£14.99 from hm.com

This is a really fun necklace. Red, gold, blue, pink, crystals, tassels, stones & beads – it’s got it all!

I have noticed a lot of inspiration from the Orient this Spring/Summer – look out for vibrant gemstones, gold and layered chains. For £14.99 you can work this trend without breaking the bank.

Gecenin şarkısı ..!

Gecenin şarkısı ..!

© RicardMN Photography

B&W photographs of Burma by RicardMN Photography. Music: Silk Road – Kitaro. (See with sound in 480p)

Burma, also known as Myanmar, is a sovereign state in Southeast Asia bordered by China, Thailand, India,Laos and Bangladesh. One-third of Burma’s total perimeter of 1,930 kilometres (1,200 mi) forms an uninterrupted coastline along the Bay of Bengal and the Andaman Sea. Its population of over 60 million makes it the world’s 24th most populous country and, at 676,578 km² (261,227 sq mi), it is the world’s 40th largest country and the second largest in Southeast Asia.

The country has been under military control since a coup d’état in 1962. During this time, the United Nations and several other organizations have reported consistent and systematic human rightsviolations in the country, including genocide, the use of child soldiers, systematic rape, child labour, slavery, human trafficking and a lack of freedom of speech. Since the military began relinquishing more of its control over the government, however – coupled with its release in 2011 of Burma’s most prominent human rights activist, Aung San Suu Kyi – the country’s foreign relationships have improved rapidly, especially with major powers such as the European Union, Japan, and the United States. Trade and other sanctions, for example, imposed by the European Union and the United States, have now been eased.

Burma is a country rich in precious stones, oil, natural gas and other mineral resources. In 2011, its GDP stood at US$82.7 billion and was estimated as growing at an annual rate of 5.5%. (From Wikipedia)

Prints/greeting cards - RicardMN Photograpy’s Facebook Page - RicardMN Photography’s  Pinterest

Between 5 to 10 May 2013 a high ranking official delegation of European Council on Tourism and Trade, under the leadership of H.E. Professor Dr. Anton Caragea , President of European Council on Tourism and Trade ( ECTT) was invited for a working visit in People`s Democratic Republic of Lao( Lao PDR).

The Government of LAO PDR and ECTT delegation at the handover ceremony for WORLD BEST TOURIST DESTINATION AWARD FOR 2013.

The delegation had also the outstanding task of presenting to the people and Government of Lao PDR the highest honor in tourism: the WORLD BEST TOURIST DESTINATION AWARD FOR 2013.

The visit has being encompassed in the rapid developing bilateral relation between Europe and Laos, in a rapid evolving dialogue and a reciprocated desire to establish an extensive and consolidate partnership, Laos being presently the main partner of our European Council on Tourism and Trade in the South-East Asia area.

In the framework of H.E. President Dr. Anton Caragea visit an inclusive discussion was held with H.E. Thongsing Thammavong -Prime Minister of Lao.

H.E. Thongsing Thammavong -Prime Minister of Lao PDR and H.E. President of  Dr. Anton Caragea in  an inclusive discussion. 

Tabled at the meeting where the extension of bilateral exchanges in areas such as economy, tourism, culture and political dialogue.

H.E. Thongsing Thammavong -Prime Minister of Lao has outlined for European delegation an extensive presentation of the Laos economic situation as a country in full and ample development, with a rate of annual economic growth of 4 to 7%, and an expansion rate of incoming tourists of more than 20% annually and being counted amongst economic tigers of the area.

Also the Prime Minister had expressed the sincere appreciation of the Government and People of Laos for the instrumental role played by Professor dr. Anton Caragea in promoting Laos image in the world and in bestowing the WORLD BEST TOURISM DESTINATION title for Lao.

On his turn, professor dr. Anton Caragea had emphasized the strong points of Lao: political stability, impressive economic development and the clear express desire to extend the bilateral relation.

The visit H.E. Professor Dr. Anton Caragea lead delegation had included also an extensive dialogue with H.E. Dr. Bosengkham Vongdara, Minister of Culture, Tourism and Information, and H. E. Vice-Prime Minister Asang Laoly and Dr. Thongloun Sisoulith-Minister of Foreign Affairs.

Tabled at the meetings where issued such as the establishment of a Council for Business and cooperation, Bilateral Chamber of Commerce, Honorary Consulates and other structures destined to enhance the economic , cultural and political partnership.

H.E. Dr. Bosengkham Vongdara, Minister of Culture, Tourism and Information in a fruitful dialogue with H.E. Professor Dr. Anton Caragea.

H.E. Dr. Bosengkham Vongdara, Minister of Culture, Tourism and Information expressed his appreciation for the Professor dr. Anton Caragea support for Laos in championing at European level with considerable influence and energy the country as a WORLD BEST TOURIST DESTINATION.

During the discussion with Dr. Bosengkham Vongdara , professor dr.Anton Caragea had presented the arguments for Lao PDR being considered as a world power in culture and tourism , noting that in XXI century that values of a nation is encompassing the cultural and historical patrimony and in this regard Lao PDR is an outstanding country.

At the end of the meeting, professor dr. Mircea Constantinescu, Director of European Tourism Academy had bestow the title and insignia and certificate of European academician to H.E. Dr. Bosengkham Vongdara, Minister of Culture, Tourism and Information for his unremitting efforts in promoting tourism as a tool for peace and development.

Mircea Constantinescu, Director of European Tourism Academy  bestows academic insignia to  Academician Dr. Bosengkham Vongdara.

The program of European delegation headed by H.E. Professor Dr. Anton Caragea also included a strong cultural element like visiting UNESCO heritage city of Luang Prabang, That Luang National Stupa, Vat Siseket temple, Vat Xiang tong, UNESCO classified monuments such as: Vat Vixun, Vat Phat Tai, Royal Palace of Luang Prabang, Phusi and Xieng Tong temple ad National Museum Kaysone Pomvihan etc.

Also a special program was carved off for professor dr. Anton Caragea as WORLD AMBASSADOR OF NATURAL PROTECTED AREAS to visit special natural; monuments situated along the banks of Mekong river.

H.E. Professor Dr. Anton Caragea had highly praised the decision`s taken by the Government of Lao PDR to protect natural patrimony, environmental protection and sustainable development for this important touristic areas.

On 9 May 2013 in an impressive ceremony full of pomp and paraphernalia the WORLD BEST TOURIST DESTINATION AWARD FOR 2013 was bestow to the people and Government of LAOS.

The ceremony reuniting leaders of Government of Lao PDR, diplomats, academicians, business community, cultural and media representatives had included the presentation of the AWARD FOR WORLD BEST TOURIST DESTINATION IN 2013, the presentation of the main landmark beauties and scenic spots for tourism in Lao an emotional charged speech of H.E. Dr. Bosengkham Vongdara, Minister of Culture, Tourism and Information and concluding a large area of fashion presentation, music and dance spectacle that impress favorable the numerous assistance.

By the outstanding organizing the WORLD BEST TOURIST DESTINATION CEREMONY in Vientiane, the Government of Lao PDR had proved his extraordinary capacity to host international events and to organize high resounding world meeting.

The successful and felicitous visit of European Council on Tourism and Trade delegation , the high level and inclusive dialogue with the relevant authorities of Lao PDR, the reciprocated vision of rapid evolving relations, the clearly marked economic, touristic and cultural opportunities are all testament`s of the desire to further extend the dialogue.

Today, the Lao government and people are proud and delighted to have received this honourable prize, which demonstrates the great achievements of tourism development in Laos. Laos offers impressive tourist attractions and services for tourists from across the world.

Minister of Culture, Information and Tourism of Lao PDR-Academician Professor dr. Bosengkham Vongdara and European Council on Tourism and Trade high ranking official`s delegation in Vientiane. 

I would like to take this opportunity to praise and express my sincere gratitude to the European Council on Tourism and Trade and all tourists for highly valuing Lao tourism and selecting Laos as the World’s Best Tourist Destination for 2013. 

I would like, especially, to welcome Prof. Dr Anton Caragea, Chairman of the European Council on Tourism and Trade, and his delegation to Laos to attend the ceremony and present the award.

The Lao PDR is diverse in languages, cultures and customs, which have been inherited from our ancestors over thousands of years. The country is rich in spectacular natural resources as well as having a long and civilised history and well-known archaeological sites, which further boosts Laos’ tourism potential.

With great effort and a high sense of responsibility by the Party and government since the 4th Party Congress in 1986 outlined a comprehensive renovation policy to open up for foreign cooperation, tourism has played an ever more prominent role in the country’s socio-economic development. The government has defined policy and taken action to develop and promote cultural, natural and historical tourism.

To facilitate the growth of tourism and services, the government has done its utmost to develop infrastructure such as building roads to link all regions across the country as well as connecting with neighbouring countries. Over the past 4-5 years, the government has exerted utmost efforts to increase the number of border checkpoints to integrate with countries in the region and the world at large. At present, the Lao PDR has 23 international checkpoints, of which 21 can issue visas. Laos has four international airports (Wattay International Airport, Luang Prabang International Airport, Savannakhet International Airport and Pakxe International Airport). Visas have been exempted for citizens of Asean member countries. Laos has also granted visa exemptions to citizens of Japan, Republic of Korea, Switzerland, Russia, Mongolia and Luxembourg.

The authorities have redefined that visas issued at checkpoints permit the holders to stay in Laos for 15 days, reduced from 30 days previously. According to Prime Ministerial Order No. 15 issued on June 20, 2006, these visas can be extended by the provincial authorities instead of only by the Vientiane authority as before. In addition, the government grants three-month visas to foreign citizens of Lao origin who acquire visas from Lao embassies, which can be extended for another three months. However, visas issued at border checkpoints grant only a two-month stay with another two months of extension. After implementing the aforesaid tourism development and promotion policy, the tourism sec tor has grown rapidly. From 1990 to 2012, foreign tourist arrivals have risen by an average of 20.36 percent annually.

In 2012, Laos registered 3,330,072 foreign tourists generating total revenue as high as US$513,576,784. By 2013 the number of tour operators had risen to 275 companies. Hotels and guesthouses have also increased and in 2012 there were 3,526 hotels and guesthouses offering 35,857 rooms. Laos now has 1,493 official tourist sites comprising 849 sites of natural interest, 435 sites of cultural interest, and 209 historical sites.

Minister of Culture, Information and Tourism of Lao PDR-Academician Professor dr. Bosengkham Vongdara deleivering acceptance speech for LAOS: WORLD BEST TOURIST DESTINATION AWARD IN 2013.

The Lao PDR shares similar characteristics with many other countries, such as different and diverse traditions and customs among its multi-ethnic people. There are also impressive archaeological and historical sites such as Luang Prabang, the historic town and living world heritage site, and Vat Phou Champassak, which is another world heritage site dating back to the 12th century.

In addition, the historic caves of Viengxay (deemed to be the birthplace of the Lao PDR) have become an open-air museum, while the Plain of Jars is expected to be listed as a world heritage site in the near future. The Lao PDR also has rich and beautiful natural sites suitable for development as ecotourism attractions and green industry without smog or hazardous pollution, which will become new relaxing sites to impress visitors from the region and the world.

 Community-based eco-tourism programmes have become Laos’ unique feature and have great potential because they give visitors the chance to get in touch with and taste nat ure, as well as the everyday life of local people and the customs practised by the Lao multiethnic people. To translate the tourism development strategic plan for 2011-2020, the Ministry of Information, Culture and Tourism in collaboration with provincial authorities have carried out nature-based tourism activities with the participation of local people by making use of the local potential and conditions of each province. Such activities were first initiated in 2000 in Luang Namtha province, called the ‘Community-based Eco-tourism Programme’. Similar programmes now exist in all 17 provinces involving 40 districts and 160 villages, and have generated income directly for local people.

Because of these progressive great achievements of the Lao tourism sector coupled with the impressive progress made in socio-economic development across the country, Laos has been praised by tourists and friendly countries across the world, justified by the fact that Laos has been awarded many honourable and impressive prizes as follows: 

In 2008, the New York Times named Laos as one of 53 countries it described as the world’s top tourist destinations. 

The world heritage site of Luang Prabang received the Top City Gold Award after being voted the world’s top tourist destination by Wanderlust, a UK based travel magazine from 2006 to 2008, and again from 2010 to 2012. 

The Community-based Eco-tourism Programme in the Nam Ha Protected Forest Area in Luang Namtha province also won an award for ‘best poverty alleviation project’ and ‘best services’ given by the United Nations Development Programme. And today, we feel proud and honoured that the European Council on Tourism and Trade awards Laos with the World’s Best Tourist Destination Award for 2013. This honourable prize will make Laos even more popular among tourists across the globe, and will drive the development of the tourism sector in our country.

 I would like to take this opportunity to express my heartfelt thanks to Professor Dr Anton Caragea, President of the European Council on Tourism and Trade, for highly valuing the development of Lao tourism. I agree with his comment that “In the 21st century, tourism has become an important bridge for friendship and relations among nations in the world; it is also a way to promote peace and mutual understanding and lead the way to a good future.”

 The Lao PDR stands ready to continue to develop the tourism sector to contribute to establishing and enhancing friendly relations among nations in the world to make a joint effort to promote peace and mutual understanding, together entering into the proper future of development under the sky of peace, friendship and sustainable cooperation.

On this auspicious occasion, I would like to wish Party and state leaders and honourable Lao and foreign guests participating in this ceremony good health, success in your noble tasks, happiness and prosperity, and further contributions to the tourism development of our country for progressive success.

  I would like, especially, to wish Professor Dr Anton Caragea and high-level delegates from the European Council on Tourism and Trade good health, success in your noble tasks and happiness, and to further contribute to promoting Lao tourism in Europe and across the globe.

Your Excellencies, ladies and gentlemen, dear friends,

We traveled here to bring to you, the people of the Lao People’s Democratic Republic, our message of friendship, peace, tolerance and mutual understanding, a message from the very heart of the Europe.

This spring, The European Council on Tourism and Trade awarded the highest tourism prize, the World Best Tourist Destination for 2013 to the People’s Democratic Republic of Laos.

60 years ago a well known scientist predicted that up to the end of the last century the world will become global, and that all the people in the world will be living in “the global village”.

It seems indeed that we are living now in a global world, where all the nations are called to solve complex problems of international, national, confessional, environmental and social nature.

And Laos is indeed a part of this global village. The strategic perspective and the wise and balanced approach adopted by your government and by your country’s leadership is a wonderful example. Your country is connected to the world with care and confidence, step by step, keeping a balance between the international and the national perspective.

This means respect for the national identity of Laos, a realization of the importance of the country’s image in the world, as well as a need for a sincere and positive cooperation with other countries for the progress and well-being of mankind.

When we study the realities of Laos and place of Laos in the modern world we discover that your country is from a certain point of view the “melting pot” that the same scientist predicted, a place and a nation where interethnic, interracial, inter-confessional problems are solved peacefully, with a careful approach to the environment, people, ancient and modern culture, national and global economy.

Here is a typical example of the wise manner in which the country’s leadership is solving complex problems and situations.

The leaders of Laos, in accordance with the needs and expectations of the Laos society and people decided that the activities of information, culture and tourism are gathered under the same umbrella, in the same ministry, underlying the importance of the three activities, their national importance, as well as their strong interconnection.

Information is vital for any human activity, for any nation involved in the process of multilateral development. The last century could be described as the beginning of the information age. It seems to be a never-ending story. Recent studies revealed the too much information from too many sources could be harmful. The individual effort of looking for information sources, receiving and decoding, selecting and interpreting may require too much effort. Too much and too divers information could be confusing. Spending too much time inside the virtual world keeps us from living in real life: to work, to spend quality time with family and friends, to meet new people and to enjoy the nature. From ancient times, teaching was the basic method of censorship and selection, of passing important information from one generation to another.

Culture is the heart of every nation, of every group of people related by place, time and political context. Again, almost 40 years ago, the new leadership of your country took a wise and strategic decision to the build the identity of the Lao nation, the present and the future of the country on the heritage of the past. Wisdom and tolerance, firmness and balance, were the concepts that guided the building of a nation, proud of its past and confident in its future.

The collaboration with UNESCO in identifying and carefully preserving the heritage of the Lao people is at the same time a token of admiration and respect of the whole world for the treasures of the Lao nation. As you may know, the most precious treasure of your country, are the people! They are friendly and their hospitality is already known around the world. They seem to live according to other time measures, and I am sure that the English idioms “take your time” and “take it easy” have their ancient roots in Lao!

We may thank you for reminding us that there is life beyond stress, morning rush, crazy schedules and endless meetings…..

And at last, the most complex task of all: tourism. It involves resources and money, smart managers and nice people, a cultural heritage and an enchanting nature, along with good food, good transportation, good housing and most of all, good will.

Taking a look at the progress made by Laos’s tourism, we may affirm that Laos has all the above incentives, and may become many years from now, a preferred tourist destination for millions of people from all over the world.

Dear friends,

It is so easy for me to bring to you all the good words from the European Union. I would like to congratulate once again your great leaders, their leadership teams and all the Lao people, men and women that contributed to building together a proud nation, admired and respected by the entire world.

And finally from our hearts again congratulations for being awarded the highest tourism prize, the World Best Tourist Destination for 2013 to the People’s Democratic Republic of Laos by The European Council on Tourism and Trade.

Your Excellency Mr. Asang Laoly ,Vice-Prime Minister of Peoples Democratic Republic of Lao,

Your Excellency Dr. Thongloun Sisoulith ,Minister of Foreign Affairs and Vice-Prime Minister of Peoples Democratic Republic of Lao,

Your Excellency`s distinguish members of Government of Peoples Democratic Republic of Lao

Distinguish guests ,

We have all gather here to pay homage to an idea and to a country that embodies this idea.

The idea is encompass in the simple truth that: in XXI century tourism has become a bridge towards knowledge and friendship between peoples and countries , a way to promote peace and understanding , a road that leads towards a better future.

We have also gather here to express our appreciation for a country and a people that will embody in 2013 this triumphant spirit of tourism: the people of Lao.

I must re-emphasize that: tourism is in the XXI century, not only a way to enjoy life, to discover new places, new cultures but also a mass phenomenon that combines sightseeing, recreation and health care.

Tourism has become, in the world today, an intrinsic value of human life and experience and what I like to call a natural right of all people: the right to move freely, to express freely and to enjoy a life of adventure and discoveries.

Undoubtedly, for a country tourism is a constant and serious source of revenue, is becoming an important factor to promote development, to build roads, to offer to people a source of income and employment, a source of prosperity.

But, material significance of tourism must not elapse the true value of tourism: as a way for people`s to build bridges of friendship and tolerance , to discover different cultures, ideas and way`s of life, to embrace the beauty of being different .

We must also clearly mark that: tourism must be based on a set of values such as nature preservation, cultural and historical patrimony conservation for future generation and exactly for this need we have carved WORLD BEST TOURIST DESTINATION AWARD as an international recognition for the country`s that are respecting this values .

I must say what a privilege is for our delegation to honor a country that is becoming a WORLD BEST TOURIST DESTINATION.

It is also a great pleasure to address our salute to the great people of Lao, a people that had build throughout centuries a perfect civilization, with hundreds of monuments of historical and civilization relevance ,a people that had offered to humanity countless riches: from religious temple and scriptures to literary texts and historical writings .

Today, Lao had become a cultural and touristic world power and the main credit belongs, without a doubt, to the great people of Laos, that from 1975 onwards is constructing a life of dignity, liberty and tolerance in a free country.

Today, in a world that rarely accepts and tolerates difference, we come to honor a country of TOLERANCE, in a world crowded with pseudo-culture, without a form and substance , we come today to honor a TRUE CULTURE , in a world that is loosing the true values, we come today the honor a real TOURISTIC VALUE, in a time in which to many speak and do not act for historical sites preservation , we come to honor a PARADISE OF HISTORY , we come to honor the People`s Democratic Republic of LAO .

Here, we have all gather to show our support for the values of humanity, of educational and cultural tourism . We are all here in the search for a country that offer to tourists a complete experience , a country that educates spirit, elevates soul and gives everybody a lesson in history and culture.

We all have found in LAO the perfect teacher in tourism, offering to all the tourist`s of the world the possibility of a safe, pleasurable and enlightening tourist experience.

Among the reasons leading to awarding WORLD BEST TOURIST DESTINATION FOR 2013 title to PEOPLE`S DEMOCRATIC REPUBLIC OF LAOS our report had taken under consideration:

- The preservation of an outstanding historical and cultural patrimony that comprises wonderful sites such as: Wat Phu- a UNESCO World Heritage Site from 12th century, the remarkable site from Plain of Jars, offering an insight into Neolithic civilization and a rare window into traditions of centuries.

A name that needs no introduction: the UNESCO heritage site of Luang Prabang, with the gems of Haw Kham and Vat Xieng Toung monastery.

I could continue for hours this list of treasures, but I will enumerate just in Vientiane- Wat Si Saket, the oldest temple of the city and the world famous That Luang complex.

Today, Lao is offering an open air museum, a rare collection of historical and archeological treasures that educate and enrich the world.

- The preservation of religious sites of world significance and value such as: Wat Xieng Thong, one of the most important of world Buddhism monasteries and remains a significant place for the spirit of religion and traditional art. Other sites that must be mentioned such as: Wat Phu ( UNESCO heritage site) and Champasak Cultural Landscape ( under UNESCO recognition).

Keeping alive spiritual tradition, integrating tourist`s and visitors in the atmosphere of the Lao people, offering possibility for an enriching cultural experience, are all achievements that transform Peoples Democratic Republic of LAO in a spiritual destination of first hand.

- Promoting a new concept of community based tourism, friendly to nature, with low ecological impact and preservation of natural biodiversity and protection of endangered species and areas, especially rainforest eco-climate.

Community based ecotourism is a way to share revenues and income, to support rural communities in prospering and presenting there foodstuff and handicrafts to the world and to make the base for an economic local development. Sharing tourism benefits to all the population, offering a social tourism it is a lesson that Lao is offering to the world.

Supporting Lao community tourism project as a way to spread wealth, it is a duty for everybody and one of the main reason for portraying Laos as a world example of democratic tourism , a tourism that is not only offering benefits to the rich, but to all people. Lao example must be appreciated and supported , and all tourist that are going to Lao must know that an investment in Lao tourism is an investment in the future of Lao people.

- Offering to tourists not only a historical and outstanding cultural experience but also the possibility to explore nature , to contribute to ecological preservation and the opportunity to visit extraordinary space such as: Nam Ngum reservoir , Bolaven plateau, Mekong river islands , Mekong river boat trip , Tad Kouangsi waterfall , the cave of de Ting . All this are model of achievements in ecological and green tourism that must be world recognized .

- The continuous development and protection of cultural and historical patrimony of Peoples Democratic Republic of LAO, the transformation of Vientiane in a historical and spiritual center offering to the visitor a glimpse into rich culture and heritage of peoples of Lao.

For all this reasons, among many others, European Council on Tourism and Trade decided, unanimously, to award WORLD BEST TOURIST DESTINATION FOR 2013 title to PEOPLE`S DEMOCRATIC REPUBLIC OF LAOS and to declare PEOPLE`S DEMOCRATIC REPUBLIC OF LAOS- FAVORITE CULTURAL DESTINATION in 2013.

This title is an international recognition of Your work for Peoples Democratic Republic of LAO until today, in the service of history and civilization, tourism and culture , in the service of the people of LAO, but is also a challenge because now we are expecting your services in the future benefit of the world culture and tourism.

May this award be transformed in a support for developing the international standing of Peoples Democratic Republic of LAO , for a sustainable tourism and development and in a base for further success for SIMPLY BEAUTIFUL – Peoples Democratic Republic of LAO .

Is my privileged to award Your Excellency, as representative of tourism of PEOPLE`S DEMOCRATIC REPUBLIC OF LAOS the award for WORLD BEST TOURIST DESTINATION FOR 2013.

We congratulate You and people of Peoples Democratic Republic of LAO for this outstanding achievements.

Dichotomies:

• Dynastic vs Modern
• Old Ideology vs New & Foreign Ideology
• Past (Remembrance) vs Future (Moving on)

(Click HERE or HERE for more Sammy Design or to go back to China 2010 – the XXL photo albums)

MUSIC

• Please click on the song/album links to listen.

I am a music fanatic, it’s pretty obvious. When someone asks me if I listen to Indian songs, I honestly reply NO, I only listen to Pakistani Music. Thus here I am, an honest Paki Music lover reviewing the 12th Lux Style Awards Music Nominees for you.

Best Album

• Chahar Balish by Sajjad Ali
• Circus in the Sky by Usman Riaz 
• Khamoshi by Ayesha Omar
• Naubahar by Dynoman
• The Harvest by Sajid & Zeeshan

What I think about them: Sajjad Ali might be the old one here and Ayesha’s sound is very confused, but two very strong contenders are Usman Riaz and Sajid & Zeeshan. Both are uber talented and their music speaks volumes of their creativity. Usman Riaz might have played with Preston Reed and be a TED Fellow (which gives him obvious perks) but Sajid & Zeeshan are no less. One of them should win.

Song of the Year

• Ankahi by Overload 
• Jaag by Jarar Malik
• Kahani Purani by Mooroo
• Katna Nae by Sajjad Ali  
• Pi Jaon by Farhan Saeed

What I think about them: Now if you’re going for talent and musicality point of view, I believe Sajjad Ali and Overload are in the lead. Overload is Pakistan’s version of The Pretty Reckless (trust me, good Taylor Momsen’s attitude and you’ll see what I mean, plus, i’m a pop culture fanatic) which happens to never hold back when it comes to experimentation, their single Ankahi really blew me away. Sajjad Ali’s single is so him and beautiful; critics-loving stuff. Pi Jaon by Farhan Saeed is good but it is a very safe song that caters to mainstream, something of a pro and con.

Best Emerging Talent

• Ahmed Siddiqui (or is it Siddiq)
• Faris Shafi
• Mooroo
• Naseer and Shahab
• Sibti

What I think about it: This one is very hard to judge as everyone in this category is rightfully placed and very deserving. This new crop of talent is experimental with lyrics and their videos and are keeping up with the trend of using social media as their medium to reach out. All of them are popular with the youth. Considering how the jury for LSA’s might be old people, I think the people at LSA’s need to put this one to a vote. But my vote is a tough choice between Naseer & Shahab and Ahmed Siddiqui (or Siddiq). But I’m thinking the LSA’s are gonna go for either Faris Shafi or Mooroo. Hard to judge.

Best Music Video Director

• Farhad Humayun for “Ankahi”
• Hammad Khan for “Ane de”
• Sohaib Akhtar for “Khamoshi”
• Taimoor Salahuddin for “Awam”
• Taimoor Salahuddin for “Kahani Purani”

What I think About it: Tough one. Almost all the videos are really good. But I think Farhad Humayun has got this one covered. Though Hammad Khan is a talent to beat.

FASHION

Best Female Model (Model of the Year – Female)

• Amna Ilyas
• Ayyan
• Cybil Chowdhry
• Mehreen Syed
• Rabia Butt

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What I think about it: Amna Ilyas hands down. Her walk is “her walk”, she does print brilliantly and she’s got the perfect figure (and age too, I might add, unlike other models) to be on top. The rest are just…what to say…old and tried. Though one must agree that there aren’t much models in Pakistan and our Fashion industry is in dire need to find fresh faces (with proper figures and attitudes), but for the time being, these will do (will they?) Plus, she’s the prettiest of them all!

Best Male Model (Model of the Year – Male)

• Abbas Jafri
• Ather Amin
• Jahan-e-Khalid
• Shehzad Noor
• Waleed Khalid

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What I think About it: I personally like none of the Pakistani male models (too much following of international trends has done this to me). Overweight and fat and too much muscle. They’re not some guys I would like to see at a Gucci show (nor would I find any like them). But they are what we have, and they are also what “Pakistani Guys” aspire to be. Anyways, coming back to the point, I like how Abbas Jafri stands out among them all. But Waleed is everyone’s favorite model. If I were to go by saying whose got the attitude, looks and can carry the clothes very well to deserve the award, then I would go with either Abbas Jafri or Jahan-e-Khalid.

Best Fashion Photographer

• Azeem Sani
• Fayyaz Ahmed
• Guddu Shani
• Nadir Firoz Khan
• Rizwanul Haq

What I think about it: Azeem Sani impresses me. He’s good (but when you find out he’s a graduate of Civil Engineering from UET, that impresses even more). We all are familiar with Guddu Shani’s work (there’s too many new kids on the block to take their place now though). Fayyaz Ahmed is ok. Nadir Firoz Khan is goood (and very popular)! Rizwanul Haq does the job well too. I personally have a feeling that it’s gonna come down to Nadir Firoz Haq. He’s just too good. The runner up for me is Azeem Sani. He’s might not have big brands like lo’real to his name (like Nadir Firoz Haq) but he’s got it.

I personally feel that it’s not only about the photographer in Fashion Photography. Stylists too play an important part in making a fashion photo stand out and look good.

Best Hair and Make-Up Artist

• Creative Team at Nabila
• Creative Team at Tariq Amin
• Juju Haider & Shammal Quraishi at Toni&Guy, Lahore
• Maram Azmat & Abroo Hashmi
• Raana Khan

What I think about it: In Pakistan, Bridal make-up is all the rage. So the creative part of fashion is left a little bit in the shadows. This competition is very very tough. But if had to go down to two of the strongest stylist(s) nominees then I would go for Juju Haider & Shammal Quraishi at Toni&Guy, Lahore and Maram Azmat and Abroo Hashmi. Raana Khan is pretty good, but she needs to let her wings spread free and soar a wild if she wants to do more than be good at bridals.

Achievement in Fashion Design – Luxury Prêt

• Shehla Chatoor
• Iman Ahmed at Body Focus
• Khadija Shah at Élan
• Maheen Karim
• Sania Maskatiya

What I think About it: All nominees are well deserved (though I do feel Sana Safinaz should be there in the list), so it’s going to be tough one to choose from. In terms of talent, Sania Maskatiya has emerged as little bird that can fly through this hell of a fashion storm but she has much to prove. Shehla Chatoor is a winner for me here, though Khadija Shah isn’t far behind.

Achievement in Fashion Design – Prêt

• Feeha Jamshed
• Iman Ahmed at Body Focus
• Sanam Chaudhri
• Sania Maskatiya
• Wardha Saleem

What I Think About it: Feeha Jamshed all the way. That girl knows how to rock Prêt like one should, and her young age plays a lot into it. If I were to choose who would be there to try and beat her (that might be a very hard battle to win) Sania Makatiya might be it. She might not win the Luxury Prêt category, but chances are she might win this one if Feeha doesn’t.

Notice Sana Safinaz missing here too

Best Menswear Designer

• Ahmed Bham
• Amir Adnan
• Ammar Belal
• Ismail Farid
• Republic by Omar Farooq

What I think About it: There’s a severe shortage of menswear designers in Pakistan so there’s not much competition here. Republic by Omar Farooq is not only the critics’ favorite, but it’s actually the modern day man’s favorite too. It’s the best menswear available in the country right now so they HAVE to win. Ammar Belal needs to show more and be present here in Pakistan and work (he’s off Studying at Parsons) I feel it’s unfair to have nominated him. Ismail Farid is good and Amir Adnan is just lost. Ahmed Bham has a long way to go, but he’s defintely on the right track.

Achievement in Fashion Design – Lawn

• Khaadi by Khaadi
• Mahnoush by Arjumand Amin
• Orient by Deepak Perwani
• Sana Safinaz by Sana Hashwani & Safinaz Muneer
• So Kamal by Elan

 What I think About it: Sana Safinaz hands down. The hype and brilliance of their prints is unmatched, along with the price for quality. Khaadi might be another strong contender here. Since there were more than 100 designer lawn collections out this year, I think it’s unfair to the other plethora of designers that came out with their lawns to have nominated the already big guns of fashion, since I can assure there are a lot better lawn collections out there than Orient’s. Pareesa Lawn by Chen One, I feel, should be on this list.

Best Emerging Talent

• Misha Lakhani (Women’s wear designer)
• Abdullah Haris (Photography)
• Natasha’s Salon (Hair & Make Up Artist)
• Saima Azhar (Modelling)
• Sana Sarfaraz (Modelling)

What I think About it: Misha Lakhani is a good designer and a talented girl. Saima Azhar is cute and Sana Sarfaraz is the Lana Del Ray lookalike that’s a very pretty face. But no one can beat the talent that guy Abdullah Haris has. He’s, in my opinion, way better than a lot of well known and out there photographers in Pakistan and no one deserves this award more than him. Ok, maybe Sana can win too (she’s a really good model), but if justice exists (even though we know how much politics plays into the LSA’s) Abdullah should win.

It’s 1923. Evangeline English is accompanying her sister Lizzie as part of a Christian mission to Kashgar, in Western China on the ancient Silk Road route. Eva in turn is accompanied by her trusty bicycle. She keeps a diary about their expedition which she plans to publish on her return as a guide for lady cyclists.

The mission is led by the forceful Hatamen cigarette smoking Millicent, who with her suffragette-influenced mission style of is determined to bring some Moslem women under her umbrella, whatever the cost; and photographer Lizzie is under her spell. Things don’t start off well for them. Approaching the city, they find a woman in agony in childbirth by the side of the road. Millicent delivers the baby, but the mother dies, leading to the trio being put under house arrest for ‘murdering’ the unknown woman.  The baby girl is left with them, and it falls to Eva to look after it.

Time shifts to the present day, and we are now in South London with Frieda, an independent young woman, who one day has two surprises. She has an unexpected inheritance from an old lady to whom she is listed as next of kin by the Council. She also opens her front door to find a young Yemeni man sleeping on her doorstep. Tayeb is an illegal immigrant, and has had to make himself scarce from the flat he shares as the authorities are looking for him.  Frieda and Tayeb strike up a sort of friendship, and he agrees to help her sort out the flat of her unknown benefactor.

These two very different narratives twist around each other, gradually revealing Eva and Frieda’s stories, and edging slowly towards each other.  There are connections, but they’re not immediately obvious which keeps the reader guessing.

Often in dual narratives one story tends to dominate – this isn’t the case here.  Although initially Eva’s tale, told through her diaries, is totally absorbing due to its exotic location and the pioneering spirit of the women on their mission, the mysteries in Frieda’s life are equally compelling.  Both provide adventure tinged with tragedy, be it in the desert heat or the claustrophobic isolation of South London, and I enjoyed both.  A skilfully plotted and accomplished debut that made for an absorbing read.  (8/10)

* * * * *
I received a review copy from Amazon Vine. To explore further, please click below:
A Lady Cyclist’s Guide to Kashgar by Suzanne Joinson, Bloomsbury paperback, 384 pages.

Vientiane, Lao PDR, 9 May 2013

Your Excellency Mr. Prime Minister of Peoples Democratic Republic of Lao,

Your Excellency`s distinguish members of Government of Peoples Democratic Republic of Lao

Distinguish guests ,

We have all gather here to pay homage to an idea and to a country that embodies this idea.

The idea is encompass in the simple truth that: in XXI century tourism has become a bridge towards  knowledge and friendship between peoples and countries , a way to promote peace and understanding , a road that leads towards a better future.

We have also gather here to express our appreciation for a country and a people  that will embody in 2013 this triumphant spirit of tourism: the people of Lao.

I must re-emphasize that: tourism is in the XXI century, not only a way to enjoy life, to discover new places, new cultures but also a mass phenomenon that combines sightseeing, recreation and health care.

Tourism has become, in the world today, an intrinsic value of human life and experience and what I like to call a natural right of all people: the right to move freely, to express freely and to enjoy a life of adventure and discoveries.

Undoubtedly, for a country tourism is a constant and serious source of revenue, is becoming an important factor to promote development, to build roads, to offer to people a source of income and employment, a source of prosperity.

But, material significance of tourism must not elapse the true value of tourism: as a  way for people`s to build bridges of friendship and tolerance , to discover different cultures, ideas and way`s of life, to embrace the beauty of being different .

We must also clearly mark that: tourism must be based on a set of values such as nature preservation, cultural and historical patrimony conservation for future generation and exactly for this need we have carved WORLD BEST TOURIST DESTINATION AWARD  as an international recognition for the country`s that are respecting this values .

I must say what a privilege is for our delegation  to honor a country that is becoming a WORLD BEST TOURIST DESTINATION.

It is also a great pleasure to address our salute to the great people of  Lao, a people that had build throughout centuries a perfect civilization, with hundreds of monuments of historical and civilization relevance ,a people that had offered to humanity countless riches: from religious temple and scriptures to literary texts and historical writings .

Today, Lao had become a cultural and touristic world power and the main credit belongs, without a doubt, to the great people of Laos, that from 1975 onwards is constructing a life of dignity, liberty and tolerance in a free country.

Today, in a world that rarely accepts and tolerates difference, we come to honor a country of TOLERANCE, in a world crowded with pseudo-culture, without a form and substance ,  we come today to honor a TRUE CULTURE , in a world that is loosing the true values, we come today the honor a real  TOURISTIC VALUE, in a time in which to many speak and do not act for historical sites  preservation , we come to honor a PARADISE OF HISTORY , we come to honor the People`s Democratic Republic of LAO .

Here, we have all gather to show our support for the  values of  humanity, of educational and cultural tourism . We are all here in the search for a country that offer to tourists a complete experience , a country that educates spirit, elevates soul and gives everybody a lesson in history and culture.

We all have found in LAO the perfect teacher in tourism, offering to all the tourist`s of the world the possibility of a safe, pleasurable and enlightening tourist experience.

Among the reasons leading to awarding WORLD BEST TOURIST DESTINATION FOR 2013 title to PEOPLE`S DEMOCRATIC REPUBLIC OF LAOS our report had taken under consideration:

-  The preservation of an outstanding historical and cultural patrimony that comprises wonderful sites such as: Wat Phu- a UNESCO World Heritage Site from 12th century, the remarkable site from Plain of Jars, offering an insight into Neolithic civilization and a rare window into traditions of centuries.

A name that needs no introduction:  the UNESCO heritage site of Luang Prabang, with the gems of Haw Kham and Vat Xieng Toung monastery.

I could continue for hours this list of treasures, but I will enumerate just in  Vientiane- Wat Si Saket, the oldest temple of the city and the world famous That Luang complex.

Today, Lao is offering an open air museum, a rare collection of historical and archeological treasures that educate and enrich the world.

- The preservation of religious sites of world significance and value such as: Wat Xieng Thong,  one of the most important of world Buddhism monasteries and remains a significant place for the spirit of religion and traditional art. Other sites that must be mentioned such as: Wat Phu ( UNESCO heritage site) and Champasak Cultural Landscape ( under UNESCO recognition).

Keeping alive spiritual tradition, integrating tourist`s and visitors in the atmosphere of the Lao people, offering possibility for an enriching cultural experience, are all achievements that transform Peoples Democratic Republic of LAO in a spiritual destination of first hand.

-                      Promoting a new concept of  community based tourism, friendly to nature, with low ecological impact and preservation of natural biodiversity and protection of endangered species and areas, especially rainforest eco-climate.

Community based ecotourism is a way to share revenues and income, to support rural communities in prospering and presenting there foodstuff and handicrafts to the world and to make the base for an economic local development.                  Sharing tourism benefits to all the population, offering a social tourism it is a lesson that Lao is offering to the world.

Supporting Lao community tourism project as a way to spread wealth, it is a duty for everybody and one of the main reason for portraying Laos as a world example of democratic tourism , a tourism that is not only offering benefits to the rich, but to all people. Lao example must be appreciated and supported , and all tourist that are going to Lao must know that an investment in Lao tourism is an investment in the future of Lao people.

-                      Offering to tourists not only a historical and outstanding cultural experience but also the possibility to explore nature , to contribute to ecological preservation and the opportunity to visit extraordinary space such as: Nam Ngum reservoir , Bolaven plateau, Mekong river islands , Mekong river boat trip , Tad Kouangsi  waterfall , the cave of de Ting . All this are model of achievements in ecological and green tourism that must be world recognized .

-                      The continuous development and protection of cultural and historical patrimony of Peoples Democratic Republic of LAO, the transformation of Vientiane  in a historical and spiritual center offering to the visitor a glimpse into rich culture and heritage of  peoples of Lao.

For all this reasons, among many others, European Council on Tourism and Trade decided, unanimously, to award WORLD BEST TOURIST DESTINATION FOR 2013 title to PEOPLE`S DEMOCRATIC REPUBLIC OF LAOS and to declare PEOPLE`S DEMOCRATIC REPUBLIC OF LAOS- FAVORITE CULTURAL DESTINATION in 2013.

This title is an international recognition of  Your work for Peoples Democratic Republic of LAO  until today, in the service of history and civilization, tourism and culture , in the service of the people of  LAO,  but is also a challenge because now we are expecting your services in the future benefit of the world culture and tourism.

May this award be transformed in a support for developing the international standing of Peoples Democratic Republic of LAO , for a sustainable tourism  and development and in a base for further success for SIMPLY BEAUTIFUL – Peoples Democratic Republic of LAO .

Is my privileged to award Your Excellency, as representative of tourism of PEOPLE`S DEMOCRATIC REPUBLIC OF LAOS  the award  for WORLD BEST TOURIST DESTINATION FOR 2013 .

We congratulate You and people of Peoples Democratic Republic of LAO for this outstanding   achievements.

‘Nationalism” has a negative connotation today. Just as it did in those centuries. Back then nationalist thought by the Oriental nations was disregarded as something which is not familiar to them. Today, nationalist thought thought by Oriental nations is still disregarded because we know better how dangerous nationalism is. Different reasons, but promoting the same agenda of putting down the Orient.

 Western nations took pride in their use of logic and reasoning. In believing in what is observed and proven scientifically and disregarding everything else. Everything else consisted of Oriental thought and logic. Spirituality, faith, and pondering over the unseen instead of the observed. All those were seen as inherently inferior to scientific reasoning. This criteria has persisted even today. The scientific model is seen as the epitome of human thought and reason. Religion and spirituality is considered inferior since it cannot be observed with the five senses; and hence cannot be believed by all logical and reasoning human beings. People who are religious are considered lacking in their reasoning capabilities. 

More lessons will become evident as i continue to read this book.

Prof.dr. Anton Caragea in dialog cu Primul Ministru al Laos-ului- E.S Thongsing Thammavong

 Vizita s-a inscris in cadrul relatiei bilaterale Romania-Laos si al imbunatatirii rapide a dialogului bilateral si a dorintei reciproce de a stabili un parteneriat extins si consolidat, Laos-ul fiind principalul partener al tarii noastre in zona Asiei de Sud-Est.

In cadrul vizitei, prof.dr. Anton Caragea a avut o intrevedere cu Primul Ministru al Laos-ului- E.S Thongsing Thammavong . In cadrul dialogului cei doi au convenit asupra extinderii schimburilor in plan cultural, economic si turistic si a extinderii dialogului politic.

E.S Thongsing Thammavong a facut pentru delegatia romaneasca o extensiva prezentare a situatiei economice a Laos-ului , o tara in plina dezvoltare, cu o rata de crestere anuala de 4-7% , cu o rata de crestere a numarului de turisti cu 20% anual si unul din tigrii economici ai zonei. Totodata primul ministru a exprimat cele mai sincere multumiri pentru rolul instrumental jucat de prof.dr.Anton Caragea in promovarea imaginii Laos-ului in lume si in acordarea titlului de CEA MAI BUNA DESTINATIE TURISTICA pentru Laos.

La randul sau Profesor dr. Anton Caragea a elogiat punctele forte ale Laos-ului : stabilitatea politica, impresionanta dezvoltare economica a tarii si dorinta clara de imbunatatire a relatiei bilaterale.

Dr. Bosengkham Vongdara , Ministrul Culturii, Informatiilor si Turismului si prof.dr.Anton Caragea stabilesc elementele cooperarii bilaterale.

Vizita delegatiei conduse de Excelenta Sa prof.dr.Anton Caragea a mai inclus discutii cu Dr. Bosengkham Vongdara , Ministrul Culturii, Informatiilor si Turismului, cu  Vice-Prim Ministrul Guvernului din Laos -Asang Laoly, si Dr. Thongloun Sisoulith, Ministrul Afacerilor Externe.

In cadrul discutiilor sau stabilit pasi concreti pentru stabilirea de Consilii de Afaceri  si Cooperare , Camere de Comert Bilaterale, Consulate Onorifice si alte structuri de promovare a dialogului economic, cultural si politic.

Profesor dr. Anton Caragea alaturi de Vice-Prim Ministrul Guvernului din Laos -Asang Laoly, si Dr. Thongloun Sisoulith, Ministrul Afacerilor Externe

Dr. Bosengkham Vongdara , Ministrul Culturii, Informatiilor si Turismului a multumit public pentru energia si influenta extraordinara la nivel european a prof.dr.Anton Caragea ce a permis ca Laos sa fie ales CEA MAI BUNA DESTINATIE TURISTICA.

Programul delegatiei romane, conduse de Excelenta Sa Prof.dr.Anton Caragea a inclus si o consistenta componenta culturala, incluzand vizitarea orasului-monument UNESCO-Luang Prabang, a stupei, simbol national,  That Luang, a templului Vat Siseket, a templului  Vat Xiang Tong, a monumentelor UNESCO : Vat Vixun , Vat Phat Tai , a Palatului Regal din Luang Prabang, a templelor Phusi si Xieng Thong si a Muzeului National Kaysone Pomvihane etc.

Prof.dr.Anton Caragea primeste un simbol al prieteniei Romania-Laos.

Totodata pentru prof.dr.Anton Caragea , AMBASADOR AL  ARIILOR NATURALE PROTEJATE  au fost aranjate vizite la monumente naturale situate de a lungul fluviului Mekong.

 Excelenta Sa Prof.dr.Anton Caragea a apreciat masurile luate de guvernul din Laos pentru protejarea patrimoniului natural, pentru dezvoltarea durabila si pentru protectia ecologica a acestor zone vitale pentru turism.

Vizita de succes a delegatiei romane, dialogul la nivel inalt, desfasurat cu toate autoritatile statului Laos, dorinta reciproc marcata a imbunatatirii rapide a relatiilor, oportunitatile de coperare economica, culturala si turistica, toate promit dezvoltarea in continuare a dialogului.

Guvernul din Laos alaturi de prof.dr. Anton Caragea

Mentionam ca vizita la nivel inalt a prof.dr.Anton Caragea si a delegatiei sale a fost prima vizita importanta desfasurata, in ultimii 25 de ani in Laos si in regiunea Asiei de Sud-Est, de o delegatie romanesca.

Prof.dr. Anton Caragea intampinat cu caldura la aeroportul din Vientiane.

Banchet in Luang Prabang in onoarea prof.dr. Anton Caragea

Prof.dr. Anton Caragea da un interviu televiziunii nationale din Laos 

Delegatia romaneasca viziteaza VAT PRA KEO-monument UNESCO 

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]]> http://povestiridinsoare.wordpress.com/2013/05/12/gica-contra-de-romania/ Sun, 12 May 2013 19:13:40 +0000 povestiridinsoare http://povestiridinsoare.wordpress.com/2013/05/12/gica-contra-de-romania/ De Paște am hotărât să mă duc acasă. Mi-am luat frumușel bilet de avion, low cost Dubai București, era oricum cea mai convenabilă cursă: zbor matinal, fără escală, la prânz eram deja acasă.

În avion numai români. Iar dacă eu sunt înconjurată numai de oameni educați, școliți, civilizați, politicoși, inteligenți și care nu sunt certați cu apa și săpunul, mai uit câteodată că populația este un pic mai variată, diversificată și mai colorată. Așa se face că, uneori, mi se întâmplă ca oamenii să mă ia prin surprindere.

Ocupând scaunul de la fereastră am avut onoarea de a avea în stânga mea doi domni (pe la 50-55 ani) destul de colorați – ca limbaj, subiecte de conversație, atitudine și miasmă personală. Stresul meu a început o dată ce vecinul meu a început să înșire cu glas tare rudele vii și răposate ale pilotului, preotul, diaconul, medicul de familie și administratorul de bloc, împreună cu toți dumnezeii și cristoși pe motiv că avionul are întârziere (mă gândesc că îi era teamă că deși era joi, nu prinde învierea). Când l-am anunțat, în cel mai politicos mod posibil, că incantațiile sale nu vor ajuta cu nimic avionul să plece, mi-a replicat răspicat și lipsit de orice urmă de respect: Taci și dormi!!!. Sincer, m-a cam încuiat cu asta. Mi-am pus de multe ori întrebarea dacă este bine să reacționezi și să intri într-o confruntare pentru soluționarea unui conflict (unul ce se vede din start a fi o cauză pierdută)…. Acum era momentul să aleg. Am ales să cedez. Varianta non-combat era de preferat pentru că, poate, aș fi găsit o metodă de comunicare cu vecinul meu în sensul adoptării unui limbaj potrivit și a încetării frecușului în scaun… dar cu siguranță nu aveam nici o soluție pentru îmbunătățirea calității aerului alterat de emanațiile corporale și expirația personajului. Poate că pe vremea comunismului apa caldă era cu program, dar sunt sigură ca pe la hotelurile din orientul mijlociu este un bun curent și un săpun măcar cât o monedă există pe marginea chiuvetei. Am cerut așadar însoțitoarei de bord să mă așeze în altă parte și asta chiar înainte ca avionul să fi plecat de pe pistă.

Din păcate nu a fost ăsta singurul spectacol al zilei. Pasagerul ”Gică Contra de România” se afla și el în cursa pentru București. Era pasagerul care găsea inadmisibil că stewardul nu a venit la el în secunda în care el a sunat. Era la fel de greu de acceptat că nu au sandwich uri cu carne de porc și că apa nu este la temperatura camerei… El avea bani. El a plătit biletul de avion și avea acum nevoie de mângâieri pe creștet și pedichiură, pentru că el a plătit biletul. ”Și dacă aveți produsele în catalog, de ce nu le aveți pe stoc?” urla el, dintr-un capăt în altul al avionului. ”Eu vă cumpăr tot aurul și toate ceasurile, eu am bani…. Dar mie îmi dați garanție la produse, nu le cumpăr eu așa oricum…. ce*s prost?” După ce a obosit să mai streseze personalul, s-a așezat sfârșit pe scaunul său. Dar n-a fost decât o pauză. Căci, după ce s-a odihnit….. a început cu forțe proaspete și multă energie să bată în ușa cabinei piloților. Ce să mai, tratamentul la care fusese supus necesita intervenția supremă a căpitanului. Neștiind care-i limita individului, sau probabil dorindu-și din tot sufletul, șefa echipajului de cabină a solicitat unor bărbați mai solizi din spatele meu  ajutor pentru imobilizarea teroristului, spunându-le să se apropie dacă le va face semn (asta și pentru că deja eram în curs de aterizare). Așa au stat ai mei ca brazi, pe ace și conuri, așteptând chemarea la lupta cea dreaptă… care nu a venit, pentru că individual a revenit la un moment dat la scaunul său. Dar acum bravii eroi ai cursei 737 Dubai București, des-ferecaseră deja izvoarele adrenalinei și nu mai știau cum să le mai oprească. Și așa am auzit eu cu lux de amănunte ce ar mai fi pățit bietul terorist dacă încăpea, vai, pe mâinile lor… câte picioare în cap, câte coate în rinichi, câte coaste prescurtate, și vânătăi pe beregată, câte învârtituri prin aer și aterizări cu fața la pământ. Nu mă îndoiesc că la nevoie ar fi fost un spectacol eroic, dar nu mi-aș fi putut imagina, fără ajutorul lor, ce luptă de gladiatori ar fi putut să iasă pe strâmtul culoar de avion….

Ei bine, da. Din fericire povestea mea este cu happy end. Echipajul a solicitat intervenția poliției pentru depozitarea individului într-un spațiu mai strâmt, cu temperatura și lumină scăzută și constantă, conceput exact pentru relaxare. Chiar dacă a trebuit să stăm încă vreo 20 de minute în avion până ce acela s-a dat dus pe sus, a meritat. Nu știu dacă îi va fi învățătură de minte (oricum este genul victimă), însă pentru zborul în cauză a primit exact ce merita.

Per total într-un avion mare și plin au fost doar 3 pasageri dificili (vecinii mei și teroristul), ambele situații au fost rezolvate cu succes. Așa că, statistic vorbind…. poate nu stăm chiar așa rău. Și apoi cum a spus unul dintre pasageri (când deja coboram pentru aterizare ): Nu știu ale cui e pădurile astea, dar e frumoase așa verzi. Iar eu am ajuns cu bine acasă la familia și prietenii mei.

Product Description

Beautifully rendered, simple and serene, handpainted sung dynasty era design ink and watercolor paintings-storm riders motif, traditional symbol of success and fortune, on hand crafted rosewood frame folding screen, with mulberrypaper covered in silk, with 2″ fine silk brocade matte border, shipped with pair of matched 3″ brass geometric hangers for easy wall mounting or use slightly folded as privacy screen, no two exactly the same, each a handpainted work of art-for the price of a print. wall screens are a traditional gift for weddings, birthdays and new beginnings, ships in 48 hours, professionally packed fully and insured via fed ex, expedited delivery available.

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