by liau on February 15, 2010
The home backyard is one of the fun places to be in Australia. Particularly during the warmer seasons, a lazy day outside the back doors should be quite typical. Add a barbecue and a few ball games (and to some, a swimming pool) and it’s almost sure to be a hit with family and friends. Actually, after school, it is already a favorite play place for my kids. Good that we’ve got blinds that I can quickly see what they’re up to even when I’m doing some kitchen work. The only drawback is having to mow the lawn to keep the fun going.
by liau on February 15, 2010
The unemployment rate in Australia is a figure closely watched. It is somehow a number affecting other numbers, including interest rates. News would indicate some improvement in the past months. One can probably guess that more jobs became available and that more resumes have been taken with acceptance. It certainly is good considering that much of the world is still recovering from last year’s GFC.
by liau on February 12, 2010
As the Winter Olympics is just about to warm up, a lot of families in Sydney are planning to cool down. Yes a lot are still heading to the beaches or hunting London vacation rentals to cool down. But another popular spot to eye for during this period are the Snowy Mountains which should take peak around middle of the year. It may sound like a long way to go but if you’re planning to get some snow, now is the time to book it.
by liau on February 9, 2010
We came from a country where the sport of basketball is quite popular. Perhaps it may be attributed to general influences America has on her. So when we moved over to Australia, we had to ‘learn’ some new sports. Yes, no more regular basketball channels (free-to-air channels). Sports regulars would be cricket, rugby, footy, and netball. Well, they do have some basketball going on but I guess (in the past few years we were here), netball seems to get more attention. So when somebody talks about Australian Diamonds, don’t be surprised if they’re referring to the national netball team and not really the certified diamonds women love. But do watch a game of netball and if you like it, you’ll probably say you found a real gem.
by liau on February 4, 2010
While there are huge department stores around Australia, what improves the shopping experience for some are the specialist shops. It’s not even just the brand-specific boutique shops but more on the product-specialist ones. So it’s not surprising to find a stool shop selling things in different sizes and shapes. There are also light shops offering your normal light bulb to more specialized Murray Feiss. Guitar shops, baking goods shops, they’re just all around. And if you’re after something specific, it just makes things easier than browsing through several rows of shelves.
by liau on February 3, 2010
School started last week here in Sydney. With my youngest starting well in big school, we decided to give her a treat in the weekend. So we took her to a place where kids would easily appreciate: toys shop. There are no huge sale during this period but the sales docket/receipt provided us with a discount voucher. The downside is having to complete a survey online to redeem. And of course, that means another trip to the shop. But I guess it doesn’t really matter as long as my little one enjoys her reward.
by liau on January 29, 2010
There are some really serious initiatives around the country to discourage smoking. Smoking ban is in effect in some places. But I guess what is striking are some really graphic photos or videos showing the ill-effects of smoking. So when buying cigarettes, you will be presented with some graphic image on the packaging. Want to
buy cigars as an alternative? Well, most tobacco products have these warnings as well. But I guess what could be key is the availability of a quitline where people who want to make a turnaround can get help.
by liau on January 21, 2010
Businesses are just starting to get back into action after the usual shut down periods around the Christmas break. After Australia Day and when school begins, things will be pretty much in full swing. In fact, the action can be seen on the streets in the morning (a.k.a. traffic). The business plan writer should be just about finished with his blueprint for the rest of the year. In this case, if he can make things busy, then things will likely turn out good.
by liau on January 20, 2010
The Australian Open started this week at Melbourne. Just watching players (just on television though) battle it out for a couple of hours or even more would make almost everyone appreciate the hard work these athletes do to keep in shape. It’s not like a quick weight loss program but a constant routine that instills discipline. A lot of the top seeds are still battling it out making the next few days really interesting to watch.
by liau on January 20, 2010
Auditions for Australia’s Next Top Model was featured in tonight’s news. Young women of varying shapes and sizes went to try their hand (or luck) on modelling. This is definitely a young woman’s arena (as was highlighted by one of the ladies interviewed). To the not so young, perhaps a quick glance at strivectin reviews may open up some doors. Though just seeing what the contestants go through, I guess these ladies should not only be tough outside but also inside.
