Yes.
I’m about to utter those famous words that Kung and Akona (and today Ania) tell me that I always say.
I LOVE TOKYO!
And you wanna know why? Because this city has so much soul. Whether it’s chillin’ in a club in Shibuya, shopping in Harajuku checking out the Anime people, taking the comprehensive Metro system, or walking around Roppongi (which I hope I spelled right) I’m definitely coming back here many, many times in my life. I may even live here for a while because this city speaks to me. There’s something about the way the wind whips around me and guides me through the night, telling me that the city is ready for me. This is one of the cities I wanted to come to the most. Perhaps, as I close in on thirty (only a month and a half away) I’m learning how to appreciate the cities I visit far beyond what their drink menu has to offer. Then again, age has nothing to do with that. I could have been blessed with this trip at any age and at some point I think I would have changed my thinking, for change is inevitable
Since this is our last Asian destination, and my last Asian blog, I’ll have to recap what these past four months have been like for me.
CHINA: Eye opening because all of my perceptions of China were challenged and then wiped away. The people I met were so cool and honest. It may have been cold outside but there was a warmth that cannot be explained that I’ll always remember about Shanghai and Chengdu
INDIA: It made me appreciate the power of pride. There was poverty all around, let’s not even front like there isn’t. The traffic was insane, it made Mexico City’s traffic seem miniscule. A trip from our hotel to the city center and back was easily about three hours, no lie. Yet, the people that lived there were 100 percent in love with their city, and wouldn’t want to live anywhere else. It reminded me of the way I feel about Philly. Yeah, it’s had a bad rep for the past few years but if you asked me if there was any other place I’d be proud to call home I’d say no and couldn’t represent Philly enough, and those that know me know I wear Philly like a tattoo. India was impressive and worth another trip.
THAILAND: Please, I couldn’t have more love for Thailand. Maybe one day I’ll properly learn how to actually speak the language ;-P
JAPAN: Once again, I loves it! It sucks that the first week was wasted on my own recovery from injuries and sickness, but that’s life. Every now and then you gotta recharge your battery in order to get ready for the adventures ahead.
I’ve got another three days here and I pray they are exciting and filled with fun, joy and life long memories. To sum it all up, Asia Rocks!
Sunday, 11 May 2008
Saturday, 10 May 2008
Bye Bye Thai
And so it goes once again during this fabulous world tour that we must say goodbye to the people, the music, and the cities that made up our Thailand experience. Personally Thailand rejuvenated me in ways that I cannot fully describe. My outlook is clear, my soul has been awakened and these next six months are going to be amazing. Koh Samui and Koh Pangnan will forever be highlights for me. It was different from Morro de Sao Paulo, which was definitely a beautiful island. However, it was serenity almost on the borderline of being comatose. Thailand gave me energy. I met so many cool people and saw so many amazing things. Taking that little boat from our residence in Pangan to the Full Moon Party was scary, but it’s still a memory I can share with my family when I get back. Just living life and being in this moment is empowering. I think that for a while I lost sight of what it is I’m here to do, and it’s cool. Every now and then you have to remind yourself of what’s important in life and my time in Thailand has given me that perspective. Now, with Tokyo on the horizon and a lot of media engagements to look forward to, I can move on with a smile and a lot of charisma for the ever present cameras (MTV Japan rocks!) I really don’t have too much to write about, but I know that Tokyo is going to be absolutely fantastic. Not because of media, or nightlife or any other factor that makes this experience what it is. Tokyo is going to be fantastic because I say so, and that’s all that really matters.
Bangin'
Bangin'
In Philly there used to be a word to describe something that was just really cool or superbly done. Something that exceeded your expectations 100 percent and that word is Bangin’. Well, all I can say about Bangkok is that it’s Bangin’. However, if you see me on the street and try to use this word I will kindly look at you and with a very sarcastic grin say ‘No, this isn’t 2002. Stop using that word’. It’s a pretty old term, but since our first city in Thailand is Bangkok I had to dust it off and break it out of the archives just one last time. I LOVE Bangkok, and once again I know I say that about almost everywhere but it’s true once again. I met so many cool people in Bangkok and I saw some things that made my jaw drop! I will admit though I can’t speak Thai. My Thai sucks! In every country we go to I attempt to learn how to say Hello and Goodbye. Well, let’s just say that on more than one occasion I was corrected for my poor use of the Thai language, but always politely. And the shopping? Yo, this is the first time I’ve been able to find my size at such low prices. I doubt they’ll have anything for my big ass when we get to Japan so I better stock up now before we take that flight. The clubs are so lively with people dancing and swaying happily to the music, which included Hip Hop as well as Drum n Bass, House, Techno. You name it, Bangkok’s got it. And the food? Being an undercover chef myself, it was a pleasure tasting the different flavors of Thai cooking. However on those nights after going to a bar, I would end up at a famous 24hr fast food joint that I’ve seen in every country, but I won’t name it. I’m sure you’ve been there. Yes, Thailand has made me redo my top three list. Of course you know who number one is (SYDNEY!!!!!). Number three is Cape Town and the number two spot goes to…...take a guess. Here’s a hint: CHEAP CLOTHES FOR BIG DUDES!!!! Sorry, but I gotta break it out one last time. Bangkok is simply Bangin’!
In Philly there used to be a word to describe something that was just really cool or superbly done. Something that exceeded your expectations 100 percent and that word is Bangin’. Well, all I can say about Bangkok is that it’s Bangin’. However, if you see me on the street and try to use this word I will kindly look at you and with a very sarcastic grin say ‘No, this isn’t 2002. Stop using that word’. It’s a pretty old term, but since our first city in Thailand is Bangkok I had to dust it off and break it out of the archives just one last time. I LOVE Bangkok, and once again I know I say that about almost everywhere but it’s true once again. I met so many cool people in Bangkok and I saw some things that made my jaw drop! I will admit though I can’t speak Thai. My Thai sucks! In every country we go to I attempt to learn how to say Hello and Goodbye. Well, let’s just say that on more than one occasion I was corrected for my poor use of the Thai language, but always politely. And the shopping? Yo, this is the first time I’ve been able to find my size at such low prices. I doubt they’ll have anything for my big ass when we get to Japan so I better stock up now before we take that flight. The clubs are so lively with people dancing and swaying happily to the music, which included Hip Hop as well as Drum n Bass, House, Techno. You name it, Bangkok’s got it. And the food? Being an undercover chef myself, it was a pleasure tasting the different flavors of Thai cooking. However on those nights after going to a bar, I would end up at a famous 24hr fast food joint that I’ve seen in every country, but I won’t name it. I’m sure you’ve been there. Yes, Thailand has made me redo my top three list. Of course you know who number one is (SYDNEY!!!!!). Number three is Cape Town and the number two spot goes to…...take a guess. Here’s a hint: CHEAP CLOTHES FOR BIG DUDES!!!! Sorry, but I gotta break it out one last time. Bangkok is simply Bangin’!
Gotta Love Those Taxis
If there is something I will always remember about this trip it will be the time I spent in Mumbai (formerly, or currently depending on who you talk to, Bombay). The music, the food, the people. The fact that the taxi drivers LOVE to talk. Every cab I got in was always a new experience and a chance to connect with the locals. The food was amazing and truly a treat. I really hadn’t started eating Indian food until I arrived in London at the beginning of the trip, but the actual Indian food was so much better than what I had prior to my stay in Mumbai. Initially I never thought there would be such a rich culture to involve myself in, or never did I once think that traffic could be any more eye opening than it was during my time in Mexico. I must admit though, our hotel was a bit of a way from the city center, but exploring the shops and restaurants in our area was pretty cool. Lots of clothes and food vendors, even a coffee house.
Friday, 7 March 2008
Relaxation At Its Best
The island of Morro de Sao Paulo was a perfect getaway after the intense energy that is Carnaval. Being surrounded by so much beautiful scenery with my nine brothers and sisters in travel almost felt more like a vacation than part of the Smirnoff Experience. I know that my bedroom became like my own personal resort palace, as it was quiet, breezy and directly faced the sea. Looking out at the view never became boring. It served as a time of reflection as to where I am on this trip. I’d have to say, honestly, that I needed to be re-inspired. Sure, we cover nightlife and it’s the best gig in the world. But little things that I used to do back home, like go to the movies or run to the market to pick up items for another Friday Night with the fellas, are all starting to weigh down on me. No, I’m not ready to go home just yet. But I am missing home now more than ever.
The good thing about Morro de Sao Paulo was that it was the first time on the trip that I could feel free to just let my mind go and be free. Sure, there’s always work of some form that needs to be done and there are always beautiful people awaiting our arrival and the fun to begin, but this was different. It was a moment of surrealism during this year that’s been a montage of random unexpectedness. And what a coincidence that this trip comes right before the halfway point has been reached.
On the island I joked to myself by wondering if I’ll ever get acclimatised to a shifting seasonal schedule when I get back home since I left in summer and will be returning in summer and it’ll be hot in most of the countries I visit in the next six months.
The good thing about Morro de Sao Paulo was that it was the first time on the trip that I could feel free to just let my mind go and be free. Sure, there’s always work of some form that needs to be done and there are always beautiful people awaiting our arrival and the fun to begin, but this was different. It was a moment of surrealism during this year that’s been a montage of random unexpectedness. And what a coincidence that this trip comes right before the halfway point has been reached.
On the island I joked to myself by wondering if I’ll ever get acclimatised to a shifting seasonal schedule when I get back home since I left in summer and will be returning in summer and it’ll be hot in most of the countries I visit in the next six months.
Tuesday, 26 February 2008
Carnaval
Being in Salvador Bahia during Carnaval was a very eye opening experience. First and foremost, let’s not even front, it is a big, BIG party. Anyone that comes to Carnaval and says that it’s not one of the biggest parties you’ve ever seen is either blind or really oblivious to the thousands of people, dancing and kissing in the streets (sometimes they’re doing all of these things with you). What intrigued me the most was the fact that everyone was smiling and enjoying each other’s company. It was like a huge family gathering that spilled out into the streets and everyone was invited, ultimately making connections with each other all in the spirit of joy (allegria? Is that how you spell it Luiza?) I had a great time when we first came to Brazil back in November (Sao Paulo) but this time definitely put Brazil into a whole new perspective. Since Salvador is closer to the beach there’s an easier vibe of relaxation and a readiness from the people that just screams ‘Let’s have some fun!’.
Another big highlight from Carnaval is the music. These songs will constantly remind me of the time I spent in Salvador all the days of my life. Even though I have no idea what the song titles are I know the chorus (Na na na….Na na na NA na) and honestly I think that’s all I really need to know. The crowds on the streets were a bit pushy, but once you realize that it’s not a disrespectful push and it’s all a part of the traditional fun you start to push them right back. Mainly, the crowds are so huge and the music is infectious that people just want to be closer to the front so they can take in all the sights and sounds of Carnaval. I’ve been to street fairs before, but none of them come anywhere close to Carnaval. This has been a highlight of the tour, and I’m sure a lot of the team feel the same way.
Another big highlight from Carnaval is the music. These songs will constantly remind me of the time I spent in Salvador all the days of my life. Even though I have no idea what the song titles are I know the chorus (Na na na….Na na na NA na) and honestly I think that’s all I really need to know. The crowds on the streets were a bit pushy, but once you realize that it’s not a disrespectful push and it’s all a part of the traditional fun you start to push them right back. Mainly, the crowds are so huge and the music is infectious that people just want to be closer to the front so they can take in all the sights and sounds of Carnaval. I’ve been to street fairs before, but none of them come anywhere close to Carnaval. This has been a highlight of the tour, and I’m sure a lot of the team feel the same way.
Monday, 18 February 2008
Two Down, Two To Go
The Shanghai event has come and gone so fast it almost feels as if it never happened. Unlike Moscow, which marked the inauguration of our year-long experience, Shanghai was something we had been looking forward to for such a long time that after it was over it seemed more like a dream than Moscow did. Not that the Shanghai event sucked or anything. I truly enjoyed the drum battle with Tom Middleton and The Lab. Anything that can expound on the true elements of Hip Hop will always be enticing for me. I was also pleasantly surprised by Hard-Fi, whom I had never heard of prior to the Shanghai event, but then again most artists I’ve been exposed to during this journey have been new to me, which is just another aspect of what makes this experience so cool. And speaking of cool, anyone who was in attendance at the Shanghai event will definitely remember one thing - the cold. We were fortunate enough to be in China during a period in time when they were having one of the worst winters in over a decade. On the night of the event it was snowing, which I was told is a sign of good luck in China. If that’s the case then the Smirnoff Ten should be incredibly lucky for the next eight months, because it snowed quite heavily during the weekend of the event.
Inside the event were more innovative ways of enjoying nightlife. One of the bars featured a cocktail list, which had the honor of being the longest in the world. There was a Martini Bar, which featured a nice relaxed lounge type feel and the stage area was always alive with people dancing, jumping and shouting along with the music. Where the Shanghai event differed from the Moscow event was mainly with the amount of people. I can remember being in Moscow, moving through the crowd at a very slow pace or just avoiding the most concentrated crowd areas at all costs until they died down. That wasn’t really a problem at the Shanghai event. Most of the time the crowd was evenly spread out either at one of the bars, at the Birch Forest or at the stage area. At no time did it seem overwhelming with people. It was a good crowd and a good vibe throughout the night. But damn if it wasn’t cold!
I’m looking forward to seeing what the Paris event will be like. If the one in Moscow will be mainly remembered for its frenetic energy and large crowd, and the one in Shanghai will be remembered for it’s musically engaging, spacious charm then I wonder what Paris will have to offer? Whatever it is I’m sure it will be original and unexpected. And I can’t wait to see it.
Inside the event were more innovative ways of enjoying nightlife. One of the bars featured a cocktail list, which had the honor of being the longest in the world. There was a Martini Bar, which featured a nice relaxed lounge type feel and the stage area was always alive with people dancing, jumping and shouting along with the music. Where the Shanghai event differed from the Moscow event was mainly with the amount of people. I can remember being in Moscow, moving through the crowd at a very slow pace or just avoiding the most concentrated crowd areas at all costs until they died down. That wasn’t really a problem at the Shanghai event. Most of the time the crowd was evenly spread out either at one of the bars, at the Birch Forest or at the stage area. At no time did it seem overwhelming with people. It was a good crowd and a good vibe throughout the night. But damn if it wasn’t cold!
I’m looking forward to seeing what the Paris event will be like. If the one in Moscow will be mainly remembered for its frenetic energy and large crowd, and the one in Shanghai will be remembered for it’s musically engaging, spacious charm then I wonder what Paris will have to offer? Whatever it is I’m sure it will be original and unexpected. And I can’t wait to see it.
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