I had a discussion with our departments new Safety Director last week. It was the first time I really had the chance to talk with him personally, and we had a very interesting discussion over lunch. Turns out he was an ex-engineer at Ballard Power Systems, and was layed off after working there for 14 years. When I asked him about if he was happy in his current position, he replied that although the pay was not as good, the piece of mind he got here, the lower stress levels, and the extra time he got to spend with his family more than made up with it. Essentially, no matter how successful he had been in his professional life, it did not compare to the enjoyment he was getting from having a successful personal life.
The other thing I queried him about was about the future of Ballard. For those of you who don't know, Ballard Power Systems was a Canadian startup that in the early 1990's developed a Hydrogen Fuel Cell which produced ZERO harmful emissions. The invention was supposed to revolutionize the transportation industry and solve all our worries about climate change. The company ballooned from a few zealous inventors to a huge company of 300 engineers based out of Burnaby, BC. Ford Motors invested 750 MILLION dollars into the technology and the idea was that in about 20 years, all cars would be running on Hydrogen Fuel Cells.
Well, things haven't quite worked out as imagined. Ballard is now OUT of the automobile business, and has downsized to about 100 employees. There is even talk that this uniquely Canadian company may be sold off to foreign investors. But what went wrong?
Essentially, the problem was that although the technology worked perfectly, and was tested in prototype cars, buses and other modes of transport, no matter how much convincing was done, governments have not supported the production and supply of readily available Hydrogen to fuel these vehicles. The expectation was that once people saw how wonderful the technology was, Hydrogen would be readily produced along the same scale as Gasoline, Diesel, Propane and CNG is now. The problem is that at present, production of fuel Hydrogen is not economically feasible. Other types of fuel are cheaper. Think about it... we have the technology available to massively reduce greenhouse emissions, and perhaps solve our problem of Global Climate Change and yet, we ignore it.
The advice our director gave me was quite telling. With engineering problems, it is important to think things through from beginning to end. Ballard had a brilliant idea, and successful implementation, but they never considered human nature, and how selfish we can be. Until the effects of climate change begin to seriously affect us, we will not pressure governments to support sustainable technology as long as it is expensive. No matter how brilliant the idea the engineer comes up with, and no matter how serious the problem is, ultimately, it comes down to the bottom line, and the power of what is in your wallet. Every individual needs to think things through from beginning to end, because no matter how brilliant your idea may be in the beginning, other factors may come to dictate how successful it is in the end. And I think this is a lesson that can be applied to may of the decisions we make throughout our personal lives as well.
It is good to listen to those of us who have life experience, and I was quite lucky to be given the chance to learn something from this person just over this simple lunch conversation.
Monday, December 6, 2010
Wednesday, December 1, 2010
Spicy Koffee
Last week I was watching an episode of the Indian Talk Show, 'Koffee with Karan', Season 3. The two guests for the episode were the gorgeous Deepika Padukone an the lovely Sonam Kapoor. In all honesty, I had never actually watched an entire episode on TV until last week. Before this I had only watched clips and bits online via YouTube. I must admit, of the various Indian talk shows, Koffee with Karan is definately the most entertaining. It seems his guests are more at ease on his show, and it seems as if they are more free and open to discuss all aspects of their life. This was illustrated quite nicely in the following clip (7:39):
And this was one of the reactions to this episode...
Hmmm... well, I must admit, as a guilty pleasure, I did find this episode amusing and entertaining. However, two things struck me... there is most definitely a difference in the way that this generation of actors and actresses deal with the media and the public. I could never have imagined anyone like Madhuri Dixit, Juhi Chawla, or Rani Mukherjee ever making such candid statements in an interview 15 years ago. And secondly, it makes me wonder about the kind of responsibility celebrities have to the public. While these two went on the show to enhance their popularity and promote their own movies, I wonder if at the same time they should try and set some sort of example for their followers? In particular, as Koffee with Karan is a show watched by family members of all ages, I was a bit surprised that Deepika and Sonam would make such 'interesting' statements, and how younger people might interpret their remarks. I am not advocating a morality police be instituted, but I kind of think celebrities should show a bit more common sense as to when and where they make certain remarks.
Hmmm... well, I must admit, as a guilty pleasure, I did find this episode amusing and entertaining. However, two things struck me... there is most definitely a difference in the way that this generation of actors and actresses deal with the media and the public. I could never have imagined anyone like Madhuri Dixit, Juhi Chawla, or Rani Mukherjee ever making such candid statements in an interview 15 years ago. And secondly, it makes me wonder about the kind of responsibility celebrities have to the public. While these two went on the show to enhance their popularity and promote their own movies, I wonder if at the same time they should try and set some sort of example for their followers? In particular, as Koffee with Karan is a show watched by family members of all ages, I was a bit surprised that Deepika and Sonam would make such 'interesting' statements, and how younger people might interpret their remarks. I am not advocating a morality police be instituted, but I kind of think celebrities should show a bit more common sense as to when and where they make certain remarks.
Friday, November 19, 2010
The Great Indian Conundrum
Since my last blog on relationships was fairly well received, I have decided to push my luck and write another blurb on the great dilemma which South Asian youth face, usually sometime in their twenties. That being the conundrum of marriage... and more specifically, what TYPE of marriage?
To my non desi readers, let me explain... to most of the world, there is only one type of marriage... where a boy and girl meet, fall in love, and get married. Simple, right? Well, Indians like to complicate things. This usual type of marriage throughout the rest of the world is classified in India as a 'Love' marriage. However, the more predominant way of getting hooked up in India is still via a process known as the 'Arranged' marriage.
Yes, this is the truth. Indians believe love should have nothing to do with a marriage. After all, most couples end up hating each other after a few years anyway, so why bother with love in the first place? It is just more efficient that way. :-D
Okay, so maybe I made that last paragraph up. But essentially, the belief is that love is something which develops over the course of a marriage, and therefore, it is more important that the two people should have a compatible lifestyle, family, and culture, and if these things exist, then love will develop soon after. And of course, whom better to decide who you should eventually fall in love with than your parents? :-S
Welcome to the concept of the 'Arranged Marriage'. At this point, some readers may be getting freaked out. But thankfully, the process has modernized quite a bit, and it is not as bad as it seems. Things have progressed, from where the bride and groom to be were not allowed to even see each other until the wedding itself, to the point where now, generally, they meet, date for a few weeks, get to know each other, before agreeing to the union. Other criteria such as caste, and societal status are slowly diminishing in importance. It is not really so much arranged marriage now as it is arranged dating. Only that usually your parents choose who it is they feel would be best for you to date. The internet has helped. Whereas before match making would be limited to alliances brought forth from within a certain geographic area, and generally by family and friends, now the entire world is at your fingertips. This is probably a good thing, as in my opinion, it would be kind of weird to be asked to date someone whom you knew as a childhood friend.
So which is the better option? Undoubtedly there are advantages and drawbacks to both sides. Proponents of the Love Marriage will say that couples may not get to know each other well enough before the marriage, and the person you agree to could be totally different from the person you thought you were marrying. Proponents of the Arranged Marriage will argue that couples can mislead each other even if they have found each other on their own anyway, so what is the difference? (See the ABCD Theory for more info) Proponents of the Arranged Marriage will argue that there is less stress via this method as they don't have to worry about any searching, but proponents of the Love Marriage will point out how stressful it must be to be spending the rest of your life with someone whom you don't even know that well? Love Marriage supporters would probably classify Arranged Marriages as dull, dreary, archaic and oppressive, while Arranged Marriage supporters would probably point out that statistically the proportion of Arranged Marriages tend to be more successful. We can continue the debate and go on, and on, and on...
Ultimately, to me, I think it is a question of maturity, and those who have accepted reality, and those who haven't. Reality is not perfect, and therefore, it is unrealistic to go around searching for the illusion of perfection while ignoring the fact that you are not perfect yourself. If you are mature enough to understand this then I think EITHER option will work. Some people realise this on their own, others come to a dead end and realise this after repeated failures, and there are those who still have not come to accept this.
In my opinion, the idea of the 'spark' is complete nonsense. True compatibility is something which is beyond an instantaneous attraction. The 'spark' is nothing but lust (ABCD Theory again), and I don't think that is something on which a happy marriage can be based upon. Usually the 'spark' is something you WANT to believe in just to tell yourself that you are involved in some sort of a fairytale relationship. In fact, I believe that things such as lifestyle, family, and culture are ultimately more important to a successful union. Believing that love will sustain you through everything is unrealistic. That initial heat and mindless infatuation is bound to die down eventually. Down the road if your partner is not financially secure, or you have married into a family which doesn't understand or accept your customs you will most likely end up regretting your choice.
Although it may sound that I am in favor of the Arranged Marriage system, this is not the case at all. I really think that if a person is mature enough to realise what true compatibility is, and that their partner, and circumstances are never going to be perfect, then they can surely find that person on their own, without the help of their parents and family. Certainly for every happy, successful arranged marriage, there are couples which were poorly matched, and are staying together just for the sake of it. Ultimately, an individual can understand his or her self the best, and if they can find a compatible partner on their own, and select him or her based on the values are important to them and will keep them happy in the long term, without getting carried away about how they may feel in the short term, then there is a good chance for success and THAT is probably the best route to marital happiness.
Phew... this was a long one. Once again, my usual disclaimer. No offense intended towards those who are single, divorced, in arranged marriages, love marriages, dating, hating, asexual or bisexual. Your feedback is gladly appreciated, and would be welcomed. And to those of you who are facing 'The Great Indian Conundrum'... good luck to you!
To my non desi readers, let me explain... to most of the world, there is only one type of marriage... where a boy and girl meet, fall in love, and get married. Simple, right? Well, Indians like to complicate things. This usual type of marriage throughout the rest of the world is classified in India as a 'Love' marriage. However, the more predominant way of getting hooked up in India is still via a process known as the 'Arranged' marriage.
Yes, this is the truth. Indians believe love should have nothing to do with a marriage. After all, most couples end up hating each other after a few years anyway, so why bother with love in the first place? It is just more efficient that way. :-D
Okay, so maybe I made that last paragraph up. But essentially, the belief is that love is something which develops over the course of a marriage, and therefore, it is more important that the two people should have a compatible lifestyle, family, and culture, and if these things exist, then love will develop soon after. And of course, whom better to decide who you should eventually fall in love with than your parents? :-S
Welcome to the concept of the 'Arranged Marriage'. At this point, some readers may be getting freaked out. But thankfully, the process has modernized quite a bit, and it is not as bad as it seems. Things have progressed, from where the bride and groom to be were not allowed to even see each other until the wedding itself, to the point where now, generally, they meet, date for a few weeks, get to know each other, before agreeing to the union. Other criteria such as caste, and societal status are slowly diminishing in importance. It is not really so much arranged marriage now as it is arranged dating. Only that usually your parents choose who it is they feel would be best for you to date. The internet has helped. Whereas before match making would be limited to alliances brought forth from within a certain geographic area, and generally by family and friends, now the entire world is at your fingertips. This is probably a good thing, as in my opinion, it would be kind of weird to be asked to date someone whom you knew as a childhood friend.
So which is the better option? Undoubtedly there are advantages and drawbacks to both sides. Proponents of the Love Marriage will say that couples may not get to know each other well enough before the marriage, and the person you agree to could be totally different from the person you thought you were marrying. Proponents of the Arranged Marriage will argue that couples can mislead each other even if they have found each other on their own anyway, so what is the difference? (See the ABCD Theory for more info) Proponents of the Arranged Marriage will argue that there is less stress via this method as they don't have to worry about any searching, but proponents of the Love Marriage will point out how stressful it must be to be spending the rest of your life with someone whom you don't even know that well? Love Marriage supporters would probably classify Arranged Marriages as dull, dreary, archaic and oppressive, while Arranged Marriage supporters would probably point out that statistically the proportion of Arranged Marriages tend to be more successful. We can continue the debate and go on, and on, and on...
Ultimately, to me, I think it is a question of maturity, and those who have accepted reality, and those who haven't. Reality is not perfect, and therefore, it is unrealistic to go around searching for the illusion of perfection while ignoring the fact that you are not perfect yourself. If you are mature enough to understand this then I think EITHER option will work. Some people realise this on their own, others come to a dead end and realise this after repeated failures, and there are those who still have not come to accept this.
In my opinion, the idea of the 'spark' is complete nonsense. True compatibility is something which is beyond an instantaneous attraction. The 'spark' is nothing but lust (ABCD Theory again), and I don't think that is something on which a happy marriage can be based upon. Usually the 'spark' is something you WANT to believe in just to tell yourself that you are involved in some sort of a fairytale relationship. In fact, I believe that things such as lifestyle, family, and culture are ultimately more important to a successful union. Believing that love will sustain you through everything is unrealistic. That initial heat and mindless infatuation is bound to die down eventually. Down the road if your partner is not financially secure, or you have married into a family which doesn't understand or accept your customs you will most likely end up regretting your choice.
Although it may sound that I am in favor of the Arranged Marriage system, this is not the case at all. I really think that if a person is mature enough to realise what true compatibility is, and that their partner, and circumstances are never going to be perfect, then they can surely find that person on their own, without the help of their parents and family. Certainly for every happy, successful arranged marriage, there are couples which were poorly matched, and are staying together just for the sake of it. Ultimately, an individual can understand his or her self the best, and if they can find a compatible partner on their own, and select him or her based on the values are important to them and will keep them happy in the long term, without getting carried away about how they may feel in the short term, then there is a good chance for success and THAT is probably the best route to marital happiness.
Phew... this was a long one. Once again, my usual disclaimer. No offense intended towards those who are single, divorced, in arranged marriages, love marriages, dating, hating, asexual or bisexual. Your feedback is gladly appreciated, and would be welcomed. And to those of you who are facing 'The Great Indian Conundrum'... good luck to you!
Saturday, November 13, 2010
Christmas Commercialism
I happened to be at the mall a few days ago (November 11) to pick up a few supplies from Zellers. While nothing out of the ordinary happened at all, one thing struck me. The Christmas decorations at Oakridge Mall had already gone up, and some stores were advertising Christmas sales. This really irritated me.
I understand that the economy is not doing so well, and stores need to turn a profit. And the holiday season is the most profitable time of the year. But my goodness, when stores are bombarding you 6 weeks early, you can't help but wonder if Christmas has just gotten too commericalized. Furthermore, are we really so out of touch that we would rather worry about Christmas Shopping than take at least ONE day to remember our fallen soldiers on November 11?
Commercialism and advertising is fine, but when it starts up before Remembrance Day, it is just a bit too much. I wouldn't be surprised if soon stores advertising for Christmas in July, and we as consumers take the opportunity to shop it up.
I understand that the economy is not doing so well, and stores need to turn a profit. And the holiday season is the most profitable time of the year. But my goodness, when stores are bombarding you 6 weeks early, you can't help but wonder if Christmas has just gotten too commericalized. Furthermore, are we really so out of touch that we would rather worry about Christmas Shopping than take at least ONE day to remember our fallen soldiers on November 11?
Commercialism and advertising is fine, but when it starts up before Remembrance Day, it is just a bit too much. I wouldn't be surprised if soon stores advertising for Christmas in July, and we as consumers take the opportunity to shop it up.
Sunday, November 7, 2010
Bald Eagle
I decided to shave my head today... no particular reason, it is something I have done a few times before, and I feel that the hair which re-emerges is healthier and (hopefully) a bit thicker. Over the past 5 years or so my hair has been thinning a tad (which ironically is the time I came back to Grad School), and in the past year, I think it has started to get a bit noticeable to those who look closely. Since it looks like I am headed down that route anyway, I decided to have a bit of fun and see what it would be like to be bald...
Unfortunately, I picked a bad time of year to do it though, as it is becoming quite apparent just how much warmth hair provides to your head. I feel like wearing a cap all the time as my head is so cool! Overall though, its not so bad... I have started thinking about the advantages of being bald... saving so much money on haircuts... so much money on shampoo... the nice massage you get in the shower when the water falls directly onto your scalp... no more worrying about how to style your hair in the morning... and of course there is that 'badass' look you kind of get by being man enough to shave your head...
Maybe being a bald eagle isn't so bad after all... ;)
Unfortunately, I picked a bad time of year to do it though, as it is becoming quite apparent just how much warmth hair provides to your head. I feel like wearing a cap all the time as my head is so cool! Overall though, its not so bad... I have started thinking about the advantages of being bald... saving so much money on haircuts... so much money on shampoo... the nice massage you get in the shower when the water falls directly onto your scalp... no more worrying about how to style your hair in the morning... and of course there is that 'badass' look you kind of get by being man enough to shave your head...
Maybe being a bald eagle isn't so bad after all... ;)
Saturday, November 6, 2010
Restaurant Review: Cafe Mumbai
Cafe Mumbai
2893 W. Broadway
Vancouver, BC
Well, its been a while since I have written a restaurant review, as unfortunately, I haven't been out to a restaurant for a while! I guess this is mainly because in the process of writing so many restaurant reviews this year, my waistline expanded a few inches, and I decided to try and cut back a bit.
However, a few friends were in town for lunch last weekend, so decided to stray from my diet (which wasn't that difficult to do anyway), and went to a place I had been meaning to try out, as I had passed by many times. Cafe Mumbai restaurant is one of the more well known Indian Restaurants in Vancouvers west end, and shame on me for waiting so long to try it.
I had heard mixed reviews about the restaurant, as some people felt it was overpriced. However, I must say, that overall, I was impressed. One of my friends in particular was in a carnivorous mood, and so we ended up ordering mainly non-veg dishes, namely Chicken Tikka Kabab, Butter Chicken, and Chicken Vindaloo... and for good measure, we ordered a Butter Paneer, along with sides of Rice and Naan. For starters we ordered Papri Chaat for everyone.
Overall, I was very impressed by the taste of the food. Not too oily, nice and spicy, but not overwhelming. The proportions were good, as all 7 of us ended up with full tummys. Furthermore, the cost of the dinner was fairly reasonable, only $15 per head. The service was very prompt, but this was mainly because we had gone in during off peak hours during the late afternoon.
Definately one of the better Indian Restaurants in the West End of Vancouver certainly. I would recommend this place for lunch or dinner anytime.
Service: 3.5/5
Location/Ambiance: 3/5
Food: 3.5/5
2893 W. Broadway
Vancouver, BC
Well, its been a while since I have written a restaurant review, as unfortunately, I haven't been out to a restaurant for a while! I guess this is mainly because in the process of writing so many restaurant reviews this year, my waistline expanded a few inches, and I decided to try and cut back a bit.
However, a few friends were in town for lunch last weekend, so decided to stray from my diet (which wasn't that difficult to do anyway), and went to a place I had been meaning to try out, as I had passed by many times. Cafe Mumbai restaurant is one of the more well known Indian Restaurants in Vancouvers west end, and shame on me for waiting so long to try it.
I had heard mixed reviews about the restaurant, as some people felt it was overpriced. However, I must say, that overall, I was impressed. One of my friends in particular was in a carnivorous mood, and so we ended up ordering mainly non-veg dishes, namely Chicken Tikka Kabab, Butter Chicken, and Chicken Vindaloo... and for good measure, we ordered a Butter Paneer, along with sides of Rice and Naan. For starters we ordered Papri Chaat for everyone.
Overall, I was very impressed by the taste of the food. Not too oily, nice and spicy, but not overwhelming. The proportions were good, as all 7 of us ended up with full tummys. Furthermore, the cost of the dinner was fairly reasonable, only $15 per head. The service was very prompt, but this was mainly because we had gone in during off peak hours during the late afternoon.
Definately one of the better Indian Restaurants in the West End of Vancouver certainly. I would recommend this place for lunch or dinner anytime.
Service: 3.5/5
Location/Ambiance: 3/5
Food: 3.5/5
Sunday, October 31, 2010
Busy Month!
Well, it has been over a month, and I haven't posted anything! In truth, it has been a very busy month. However, nothing blog-worthy has happened, and I haven't had any thought provoking ideas to write about either. Nevertheless, be it weddings, pujas, dandiaya nights, farewell parties, reunions with friends, movies or ISA events, I must say this has been one of the most enjoyable and socially active months I have had in a while!
Hopefully next month I get time to rest my old bones and perhaps blog something more noteworthy...
Hopefully next month I get time to rest my old bones and perhaps blog something more noteworthy...
Saturday, September 25, 2010
IST
This post is about a pet peeve of mine... and ironically although it is a pet peeve, in all honesty, over the past few years, I am very much guilty of having become quite accustomed to performing this peeve... which I guess makes me a... hypocrite!? :S
Every Indian knows what IST is... 'Indian Standard Time' means that no matter what the occasion, you always show up late for an appointment/meeting/get together... sometimes, it is being 'fashionably late'... but more often than not, it is just being irresponsible, insensitive and too lazy to actually show up places on time.
Now, why am I writing about this today of all days? Well, it is one week to the start of the Commonwealth Games in Delhi, and the venues and accomodations are still not ready. Any other major professional world sporting event would have had their facilities ready and tested 6 months in advance, but not in Delhi... because, after all, IST is the norm. It just wouldn't be 'Indian' if things were done professionally and on time for a change. Heaven forbid you question it, because if you did, it would be 'Anti-National' to do so. Instead it is better to blame foreign contingents for having standards which are just overly high. It is far easier to make excuses than accept your mistakes.
http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport2/hi/commonwealth_games/delhi_2010/9025907.stm
The Indian middle class has eagerly bought into every western vice thrown at it over the past two decades. It is about time that it learns to accept some of its virtues, and those are of punctuality and professionalism. I really genuinely hope that somehow Delhi manages to get things done at the last minute, and that the games go off smoothly, because if not, it will really be a major embarassment.
Ironically, India was ranked as the '3rd most powerful nation in the world' just a few days back. Well, perhaps it is time to start acting like a powerful nation, rather than just flaunting the title.
Every Indian knows what IST is... 'Indian Standard Time' means that no matter what the occasion, you always show up late for an appointment/meeting/get together... sometimes, it is being 'fashionably late'... but more often than not, it is just being irresponsible, insensitive and too lazy to actually show up places on time.
Now, why am I writing about this today of all days? Well, it is one week to the start of the Commonwealth Games in Delhi, and the venues and accomodations are still not ready. Any other major professional world sporting event would have had their facilities ready and tested 6 months in advance, but not in Delhi... because, after all, IST is the norm. It just wouldn't be 'Indian' if things were done professionally and on time for a change. Heaven forbid you question it, because if you did, it would be 'Anti-National' to do so. Instead it is better to blame foreign contingents for having standards which are just overly high. It is far easier to make excuses than accept your mistakes.
http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport2/hi/commonwealth_games/delhi_2010/9025907.stm
The Indian middle class has eagerly bought into every western vice thrown at it over the past two decades. It is about time that it learns to accept some of its virtues, and those are of punctuality and professionalism. I really genuinely hope that somehow Delhi manages to get things done at the last minute, and that the games go off smoothly, because if not, it will really be a major embarassment.
Ironically, India was ranked as the '3rd most powerful nation in the world' just a few days back. Well, perhaps it is time to start acting like a powerful nation, rather than just flaunting the title.
Wednesday, September 15, 2010
Journey to the middle of nowhere...
In what will likely be my last trip outside of Vancouver this year, a group of friends and I took a road trip to a small town in Northern BC called Tumbler Ridge. Tumbler Ridge is a small mining town located north of Prince George and just south of Ft St John in the Peace River district of British Columbia. Despite living my entire life in this province, I had never been north of Kamloops on the mainland, and so the trip was kind of an eye-opener.
In fact, we had gone to drop a friend of ours off, as she had recently gotten a job there, and would be there for at least the next few months. We arrived in the town/village after a 16 hr drive from Vancouver. Although I don't appreciate it as much as I should, I must say that there is definitely a good reason as to why BC landscape is considered to be spectacular. Sections of the road between Pemberton and Lilloet were truly breathtaking, and we were really in awe of the land that god had sculpted.
Tumbler Ridge itself is basically a mining town, where most of the residents are transient, and no one really lives there for more than a few years at most, mainly due to the remoteness of the town, and the harsh climate (it goes down to -40C in the winter apparently). There are quite a few activities that you can take part in the summer, namely golfing, fishing, hiking, and hunting (none of which I had really ever done before). Unfortunately, the winters are not as pleasant, as the residents are basically confined indoors in front of their TV sets.
I must say, that the residents of this town are quite different from Vancouverites. While they may not be as metropolitan and refined as city dwellers, I really found them to be warm, open, funny and genuine, which is not always something you can say about Vancouverites. I was afraid that they might be stuck-up, boorish rednecks, but I was really pleasantly surprised to see that this is kind of a myth, and racism was not an issue at all. Essentially, if you were willing to adjust and blend into the community, the community would do its best to respect your values and traditions. This was really great to see.
I don't know how often I will be going up there to visit my friends, but it turns out that a small mining town is not as intimidating a place as it seems, and it was really a nice change from the mundane.
In fact, we had gone to drop a friend of ours off, as she had recently gotten a job there, and would be there for at least the next few months. We arrived in the town/village after a 16 hr drive from Vancouver. Although I don't appreciate it as much as I should, I must say that there is definitely a good reason as to why BC landscape is considered to be spectacular. Sections of the road between Pemberton and Lilloet were truly breathtaking, and we were really in awe of the land that god had sculpted.
Tumbler Ridge itself is basically a mining town, where most of the residents are transient, and no one really lives there for more than a few years at most, mainly due to the remoteness of the town, and the harsh climate (it goes down to -40C in the winter apparently). There are quite a few activities that you can take part in the summer, namely golfing, fishing, hiking, and hunting (none of which I had really ever done before). Unfortunately, the winters are not as pleasant, as the residents are basically confined indoors in front of their TV sets.
I must say, that the residents of this town are quite different from Vancouverites. While they may not be as metropolitan and refined as city dwellers, I really found them to be warm, open, funny and genuine, which is not always something you can say about Vancouverites. I was afraid that they might be stuck-up, boorish rednecks, but I was really pleasantly surprised to see that this is kind of a myth, and racism was not an issue at all. Essentially, if you were willing to adjust and blend into the community, the community would do its best to respect your values and traditions. This was really great to see.
I don't know how often I will be going up there to visit my friends, but it turns out that a small mining town is not as intimidating a place as it seems, and it was really a nice change from the mundane.
Wednesday, September 1, 2010
Random News...
A couple of items in the news have caught my attention lately. Of one, I have a definate opinion. The other... not so much.
Ground Zero Mosque
9 years ago, after 9/11 there was much discussion and debate over what would go on at the site of the former World Trade Center. At that time, I don't think anyone ever would have imagined that a plan to build a mosque at the site would ever possibly be considered.
To be clear, the mosque would not literally be constructed at the site where the World Trade Center was located. However, when the buildings collapsed, there was massive damage to the adjacent areas, even blocks away. And it is at some distance that the Islamic Center would be located.
This is a tough one. On one hand, America espouses itself as a bastion of democracy, tolerance and freedom of expression. Therefore, there should really be no opposition to the project. But I can understand the sentiments of New Yorkers, and why they would be so upset with the idea of constructing a mosque in such an area, after the events of that terrible day. You would also think that perhaps Muslims would be a bit more sensitive to the sentiments of those opposed. Its a crappy deal, but unfortunately, 9/11 has made the world tougher for those who follow Islam. It will be interesting to see which side backs down ultimately, and what the reprecussions will be.
Match Fixing
On this issue, I have a much clearer opinion. What the hell is wrong with Pakistani Cricket, and more precisely the Pakistani Cricket administration? After their fellow countrymen greeted foreign cricket players with bulletholes in their buses last summer, it now seems as if the players themselves are determined to go abroad and completely screw up the game. Although nothing has been conclusively proven yet, a decade after match fixing first surfaced, it appears to have resurfaced, and it seems as if some of Pakistans best cricketers are involved.
In the midst of the suffering caused by the terrible flooding there right now, it is quite sad that the countries players would abuse the national pastime like this. I have always had a lot of respect for the talents of Pakistani fast bowlers, and it is really a shame to see that rather than throwing cricket balls around, they are throwing their careers and their integrity away instead.
Ground Zero Mosque
9 years ago, after 9/11 there was much discussion and debate over what would go on at the site of the former World Trade Center. At that time, I don't think anyone ever would have imagined that a plan to build a mosque at the site would ever possibly be considered.
To be clear, the mosque would not literally be constructed at the site where the World Trade Center was located. However, when the buildings collapsed, there was massive damage to the adjacent areas, even blocks away. And it is at some distance that the Islamic Center would be located.
This is a tough one. On one hand, America espouses itself as a bastion of democracy, tolerance and freedom of expression. Therefore, there should really be no opposition to the project. But I can understand the sentiments of New Yorkers, and why they would be so upset with the idea of constructing a mosque in such an area, after the events of that terrible day. You would also think that perhaps Muslims would be a bit more sensitive to the sentiments of those opposed. Its a crappy deal, but unfortunately, 9/11 has made the world tougher for those who follow Islam. It will be interesting to see which side backs down ultimately, and what the reprecussions will be.
Match Fixing
On this issue, I have a much clearer opinion. What the hell is wrong with Pakistani Cricket, and more precisely the Pakistani Cricket administration? After their fellow countrymen greeted foreign cricket players with bulletholes in their buses last summer, it now seems as if the players themselves are determined to go abroad and completely screw up the game. Although nothing has been conclusively proven yet, a decade after match fixing first surfaced, it appears to have resurfaced, and it seems as if some of Pakistans best cricketers are involved.
In the midst of the suffering caused by the terrible flooding there right now, it is quite sad that the countries players would abuse the national pastime like this. I have always had a lot of respect for the talents of Pakistani fast bowlers, and it is really a shame to see that rather than throwing cricket balls around, they are throwing their careers and their integrity away instead.
Saturday, August 21, 2010
All izz well?
'Aaaaaaaaal izzzzz wellllllll...'
That is the advice Amir Khan gives to his friends in the movie '3 Idiots' to make them feel better. Just tell yourself that 'All izz well', and eventually, all will become well. It is an advice that I am given quite often, and I know friends who swear by it.
All izz well? Yeah right. What good does it do to tell yourself that all is well, when things are not well? Life is not a Bollywood movie. Things do not magically work out on their own. You are in control of your actions and not the results. Since you are in control of your actions, why not try and take control of your destiny as much as possible and try and make things well, when they are not going well? There is no guarantee that all will become well, but I think it is much more sane advice than just being a happy-go-lucky foolish optimist.
So should you be pessimistic? Absolutely not. No one ever got any where by being full of negative energy. The first step to making your life better is to believe that it can be better, and that will never happen if you are convinced that nothing in the world can go right.
So friends, my advice to you, is don't be a foolish optimist, and don't be a negative pessimist. Be a realist, allow yourself to be depressed, and allow yourself to be happy. Both emotions will make you a stronger person in the long run. Make your own decisions, but never have such a big ego to not be able to take good advice.
Remember, not to look at the glass as being half full, not as being half empty, but recognizing that you have the capacity to fill it upto the brim.
And that is the gyan I have to give today. :)
That is the advice Amir Khan gives to his friends in the movie '3 Idiots' to make them feel better. Just tell yourself that 'All izz well', and eventually, all will become well. It is an advice that I am given quite often, and I know friends who swear by it.
All izz well? Yeah right. What good does it do to tell yourself that all is well, when things are not well? Life is not a Bollywood movie. Things do not magically work out on their own. You are in control of your actions and not the results. Since you are in control of your actions, why not try and take control of your destiny as much as possible and try and make things well, when they are not going well? There is no guarantee that all will become well, but I think it is much more sane advice than just being a happy-go-lucky foolish optimist.
So should you be pessimistic? Absolutely not. No one ever got any where by being full of negative energy. The first step to making your life better is to believe that it can be better, and that will never happen if you are convinced that nothing in the world can go right.
So friends, my advice to you, is don't be a foolish optimist, and don't be a negative pessimist. Be a realist, allow yourself to be depressed, and allow yourself to be happy. Both emotions will make you a stronger person in the long run. Make your own decisions, but never have such a big ego to not be able to take good advice.
Remember, not to look at the glass as being half full, not as being half empty, but recognizing that you have the capacity to fill it upto the brim.
And that is the gyan I have to give today. :)
Tuesday, August 17, 2010
One Year
I was just looking through some of my old blogs today. And I came to realise that it has been exactly one year since I started this blog! My first original post to this blog was on August 17, 2009. I have several postings before this as well, but those were just old notes that I had imported from Facebook.
Why did I start this blog? Well, I don't really know. I had come back from Europe about this time last year, and felt as if I had alot of things to say. I think people were getting irritated with my many Facebook notes, and I decided this would be an interesting thing to start up. I enjoy writing, as I feel it lets me vent off some steam once in a while, and I think I communicate better through written words than spoken sentences. Of course I realise alot of the stuff I write would be quite boring, but I hope that occasionally, I come up with something which holds the readers interest.
To those of you who read my my blog on a semi regular basis, both to those whom I know, and to those who follow anonymously, thank you and I hope you enjoy reading about my thoughts, experiences, and mindless drivel. I shall try to keep doing this for as long as I have interest and the time. Cheers to you, and cheers to the year ahead!
Why did I start this blog? Well, I don't really know. I had come back from Europe about this time last year, and felt as if I had alot of things to say. I think people were getting irritated with my many Facebook notes, and I decided this would be an interesting thing to start up. I enjoy writing, as I feel it lets me vent off some steam once in a while, and I think I communicate better through written words than spoken sentences. Of course I realise alot of the stuff I write would be quite boring, but I hope that occasionally, I come up with something which holds the readers interest.
To those of you who read my my blog on a semi regular basis, both to those whom I know, and to those who follow anonymously, thank you and I hope you enjoy reading about my thoughts, experiences, and mindless drivel. I shall try to keep doing this for as long as I have interest and the time. Cheers to you, and cheers to the year ahead!
Saturday, August 7, 2010
Restaurant Review: The Naam
The Naam Restaurant
2724 W 4th Ave
Vancouver BC
The Naam is one of Vancouvers more unique restaurants. About a 20 min bus ride from UBC in Vancouvers trendy Kitsilano Area, The Naam is a purely Vegetarian/Vegan Restaurant which was started up in the 1970s. This is quite evident in the decor of the restaurant, which is decidedly 'hippie'-like. It is one of Vancouvers few 24/7 restaurants. The service is a bit poor, as the servers look like they are out numbered and over worked. Still, the attitude is very chill, and no one seems to mind if the food is delivered to your table a bit late.
A group of friends and myself were coming back late after watching the Fireworks at Jericho Beach a few days ago, and since were feeling hungry, decided to grab a bite to eat. Unfortunately at that time of nite, there are few to no options available in Vancouver. The closest place open was The Naam, and as we hadn't been there in a while, thought we should drop in.
Although the place was quite packed (even at midnight), we managed to get a seat. Were quite tempted by the yummy looking pastries and cakes which are near the front entrance, but we held our nerve and ordered our main courses. I split a small pizza with one friend, while my other two friends ordered the 'Buddhas Feast', and 'Crying Tiger Thai Stir Fry'. We enjoyed the pizza very much, but I felt the other two dishes were quite bland and need a bit of salt, pepper and hot sauce to improve the flavor. But on the other hand, since the food being served was supposed to be healthy and nutritional, perhaps I shouldn't have been surprised.
The Naam is an interesting eat out, and worth a late night drop in.
Service: 3/5
Location/Ambiance: 3/5
Food: 3/5
2724 W 4th Ave
Vancouver BC
The Naam is one of Vancouvers more unique restaurants. About a 20 min bus ride from UBC in Vancouvers trendy Kitsilano Area, The Naam is a purely Vegetarian/Vegan Restaurant which was started up in the 1970s. This is quite evident in the decor of the restaurant, which is decidedly 'hippie'-like. It is one of Vancouvers few 24/7 restaurants. The service is a bit poor, as the servers look like they are out numbered and over worked. Still, the attitude is very chill, and no one seems to mind if the food is delivered to your table a bit late.
A group of friends and myself were coming back late after watching the Fireworks at Jericho Beach a few days ago, and since were feeling hungry, decided to grab a bite to eat. Unfortunately at that time of nite, there are few to no options available in Vancouver. The closest place open was The Naam, and as we hadn't been there in a while, thought we should drop in.
Although the place was quite packed (even at midnight), we managed to get a seat. Were quite tempted by the yummy looking pastries and cakes which are near the front entrance, but we held our nerve and ordered our main courses. I split a small pizza with one friend, while my other two friends ordered the 'Buddhas Feast', and 'Crying Tiger Thai Stir Fry'. We enjoyed the pizza very much, but I felt the other two dishes were quite bland and need a bit of salt, pepper and hot sauce to improve the flavor. But on the other hand, since the food being served was supposed to be healthy and nutritional, perhaps I shouldn't have been surprised.
The Naam is an interesting eat out, and worth a late night drop in.
Service: 3/5
Location/Ambiance: 3/5
Food: 3/5
Wednesday, July 28, 2010
Restaurant Review: Congee Noodle House
Congee Noodle House
141 E. Broadway
Vancouver, BC
Will make this review a quick one. Went with a some friends to this restaurant a few weeks ago. The main reason for going here is that it was a bit late at night, (10:30PM), and there are very few restaurants in Vancouver that are open past 10PM on a weekday night.
Congee Noodle House seems to be quite a popular restaurant, as when I walk by it, it is usually quite packed. After eating here, I feel the main reasons for this are the reasonable prices, and the late night hours. The food itself is strictly mediocore. We tried the Pineapple Chicken, Soy Chicken, and Vegetable Chow Mein w/ Black Bean Sauce. The Pineapple Chicken and Soy Chicken were not too bad, but I do not recommend the Chow Mein at all as it is far too salty. The service was quite prompt, and the premises are clean and hygenic.
For fine dining, do not go here. For a late night meal, you can consider this place.
141 E. Broadway
Vancouver, BC
Will make this review a quick one. Went with a some friends to this restaurant a few weeks ago. The main reason for going here is that it was a bit late at night, (10:30PM), and there are very few restaurants in Vancouver that are open past 10PM on a weekday night.
Congee Noodle House seems to be quite a popular restaurant, as when I walk by it, it is usually quite packed. After eating here, I feel the main reasons for this are the reasonable prices, and the late night hours. The food itself is strictly mediocore. We tried the Pineapple Chicken, Soy Chicken, and Vegetable Chow Mein w/ Black Bean Sauce. The Pineapple Chicken and Soy Chicken were not too bad, but I do not recommend the Chow Mein at all as it is far too salty. The service was quite prompt, and the premises are clean and hygenic.
For fine dining, do not go here. For a late night meal, you can consider this place.
Service: 3/5
Location/Ambiance: 3/5
Food: 2.5/5
Monday, July 19, 2010
The ABCD theory...
I tend to avoid writing very much about relationships. The very subject tends to stir up emotions and is a magnet for controversy. And I end up taking alot of flak. However, I haven't posted anything original in quite a long time, and as such, I am going to put forward one of my theories on Male-Female relationships. I am sure girls are going to get upset with me as it may seem I am belittling them, and guys are going to get mad at me for giving away our secrets... still, presented for your consumption is the: "ABCD theory"
Postulate 1:
There exist 3 classifications of guys in the world...
Class 1: 'Nice Guys' (~20%)
Class 2: 'Normal Guys' (~60%)
Class 3: 'Jerks' (~20%) (I could use a more colorful phrase here, but this IS a family blog)
But how do you place a guy into one of these classes? Let me continue...
Postulate 2:
Almost every guy mentally places each girl they meet into four different categories, ABCD:
Category A: Someone whom he genuinely likes/loves and is interested in pursuing a serious relationship with.
Category B: Someone whom he finds physically attractive, and is purely interested in fooling/around with, nothing more.
Category C: Someone whom he likes and respects, but only as a friend. Not interested in a relationship at a given point in time, and probably never.
Category D: Someone who irritates him, and whom he doesn't want to have anything to do with.
Now, you notice, I said ALMOST every guy. In fact, this categorization is used by 'Normal Guys' and 'Jerks'. 'Nice Guys' do not have a Category B. They are nice enough to respect girls enough either to be seriously interested, or are happy just being friends. But their proportion is very low. Why?
Postulate 3:
Girls want nice guys for friends, but never in a relationship.
Honestly, I don't know what the reason for this is. Maybe girls find nice guys to be too much of a pushover, or maybe they prefer a challenge, I really don't know. Furthermore, I think many girls tend to use 'Nice Guys' to satisfy their own egos. Regardless, upon this realisation, most guys tend to try and act like 'Normal Guys' or 'Jerks'.
So how do you differentiate between these two categories?
Postulate 4:
Someone who plays 'The Game', and misleads a Category B or C girl into thinking they are an A to him, only to end up using her like a B is a 'Jerk'.
Please make note. For 'Normal Guys' HAVING a Category B is not an issue. There is nothing wrong with lusting after a girl as long as the feeling is mutual and she realises nothing serious is going to happen. They are both just in it for fun. On occasion, things might progress down the road, but if not, no big deal. However, a 'Normal Guy' will not lead a girl on. If he does, he has crossed over and become a 'Jerk'. 'Normal Guys' play 'The Game' exclusively with 'B' girls, while 'Jerks' are pretty much desperate losers who will do or say anything if they think they can get a girl.
Postulate 5:
'The Game' very much exists, but only in lust.
When you play a 'Game', it doesn't matter if you lose. Since it is lust, there will always be other girls to score with. Notice my use of sports terms... 'play', 'lose', 'score'. Thats why we call it 'The Game'.
Postulate 6:
Girls don't know the difference between love and lust.
Because girls don't know the difference, they end up misunderstanding a guys true interests, and end up being unable to tell the difference between 'Normal Guys' and 'Jerks'. They think a 'Jerk' is in love with them, when really, all they want to do is screw around. 'Jerks' are exceptional at playing 'The Game', and girls end up falling for them, even though 80% of the population is better than them. No one wants to admit they are wrong... and every girl wants to believe they are involved in some sort of a fairytale relationship. So consiquently alot of girls stay in relationships which are doomed to failure. Ultimately, it isn't fair to either gender, but I guess thats just human nature and how we are.
Well, there you have it folks. Guys, Girls, Egos, The Game, Love, Lust. I have tried to explain it all... My intention is not to offend anyone, so I hope no one takes this personally. Feedback, comments, and criticism will be graciously accepted...
Postulate 1:
There exist 3 classifications of guys in the world...
Class 1: 'Nice Guys' (~20%)
Class 2: 'Normal Guys' (~60%)
Class 3: 'Jerks' (~20%) (I could use a more colorful phrase here, but this IS a family blog)
But how do you place a guy into one of these classes? Let me continue...
Postulate 2:
Almost every guy mentally places each girl they meet into four different categories, ABCD:
Category A: Someone whom he genuinely likes/loves and is interested in pursuing a serious relationship with.
Category B: Someone whom he finds physically attractive, and is purely interested in fooling/around with, nothing more.
Category C: Someone whom he likes and respects, but only as a friend. Not interested in a relationship at a given point in time, and probably never.
Category D: Someone who irritates him, and whom he doesn't want to have anything to do with.
Now, you notice, I said ALMOST every guy. In fact, this categorization is used by 'Normal Guys' and 'Jerks'. 'Nice Guys' do not have a Category B. They are nice enough to respect girls enough either to be seriously interested, or are happy just being friends. But their proportion is very low. Why?
Postulate 3:
Girls want nice guys for friends, but never in a relationship.
Honestly, I don't know what the reason for this is. Maybe girls find nice guys to be too much of a pushover, or maybe they prefer a challenge, I really don't know. Furthermore, I think many girls tend to use 'Nice Guys' to satisfy their own egos. Regardless, upon this realisation, most guys tend to try and act like 'Normal Guys' or 'Jerks'.
So how do you differentiate between these two categories?
Postulate 4:
Someone who plays 'The Game', and misleads a Category B or C girl into thinking they are an A to him, only to end up using her like a B is a 'Jerk'.
Please make note. For 'Normal Guys' HAVING a Category B is not an issue. There is nothing wrong with lusting after a girl as long as the feeling is mutual and she realises nothing serious is going to happen. They are both just in it for fun. On occasion, things might progress down the road, but if not, no big deal. However, a 'Normal Guy' will not lead a girl on. If he does, he has crossed over and become a 'Jerk'. 'Normal Guys' play 'The Game' exclusively with 'B' girls, while 'Jerks' are pretty much desperate losers who will do or say anything if they think they can get a girl.
Postulate 5:
'The Game' very much exists, but only in lust.
When you play a 'Game', it doesn't matter if you lose. Since it is lust, there will always be other girls to score with. Notice my use of sports terms... 'play', 'lose', 'score'. Thats why we call it 'The Game'.
Postulate 6:
Girls don't know the difference between love and lust.
Because girls don't know the difference, they end up misunderstanding a guys true interests, and end up being unable to tell the difference between 'Normal Guys' and 'Jerks'. They think a 'Jerk' is in love with them, when really, all they want to do is screw around. 'Jerks' are exceptional at playing 'The Game', and girls end up falling for them, even though 80% of the population is better than them. No one wants to admit they are wrong... and every girl wants to believe they are involved in some sort of a fairytale relationship. So consiquently alot of girls stay in relationships which are doomed to failure. Ultimately, it isn't fair to either gender, but I guess thats just human nature and how we are.
Well, there you have it folks. Guys, Girls, Egos, The Game, Love, Lust. I have tried to explain it all... My intention is not to offend anyone, so I hope no one takes this personally. Feedback, comments, and criticism will be graciously accepted...
Sunday, July 18, 2010
The Ramakrishna Mission
Swami Vivekananda travelled to North America in 1893 to represent India and Hinduism and spread the word of Vedanta to the west. He gained tremendous respect all over the world through his lectures, and helped restore a sense of pride amongst Hindus by teaching the purest, unadulterated form of the religion, and dispelling the myth that Hinduism is an idoltarous, mysoganistic, caste-ridden system. The mission he founded in 1896 has chapters throughout the world, and is dedicated to improving health care and education, promoting spiritual and cultural uplift, rural welfare, and youth development. The mission has stayed free of controversy by disengaging itself from politics and remaining secular.
What very few people know is that Swami Vivekanandas port of entry into North America was actually at Vancouver. He stayed here for a very short time before departing for Chicago, and not much is known about his activities here. However, we are blessed that his point of entry was at our lovely city, and every year, the local chapter of the Mission celebrates his arrival with a small function at a community hall. This year, about 100 people attended the celebration with talks by eminent religious leaders, a North Indian classical music concert, and a delicious vegetarian dinner. I enjoyed the concert very much, and the food was scrumpcious.
I encourage you all to visit the Ramkrishna Mission in Kolkata, India. The Mission is located at Belur Math in Howrah, and is truly a bastion of serenity in an otherwise chaotic, orderless city. Listening to the evening Aarti truly lifts the mind to a different level. The link is given below:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=p9Ovw6sG3sE
What very few people know is that Swami Vivekanandas port of entry into North America was actually at Vancouver. He stayed here for a very short time before departing for Chicago, and not much is known about his activities here. However, we are blessed that his point of entry was at our lovely city, and every year, the local chapter of the Mission celebrates his arrival with a small function at a community hall. This year, about 100 people attended the celebration with talks by eminent religious leaders, a North Indian classical music concert, and a delicious vegetarian dinner. I enjoyed the concert very much, and the food was scrumpcious.
I encourage you all to visit the Ramkrishna Mission in Kolkata, India. The Mission is located at Belur Math in Howrah, and is truly a bastion of serenity in an otherwise chaotic, orderless city. Listening to the evening Aarti truly lifts the mind to a different level. The link is given below:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=p9Ovw6sG3sE
Saturday, June 26, 2010
Restaurant Review: Saravanaa Bhavan
Saravanaa Bhavan
955 W. Broadway
Vancouver, BC
Was feeling hungry on my way back to campus last Tuesday evening, in the mood for vegetarian, so I decided to convince a friend to join me for dinner at Saravanaa Bhavan restaurant. Have been here plenty of times, but this is my first blog review.
Saravanaa Bhavan is a well known chain spread throughout the world, with locations in Canada, the USA, Australia, Europe, Singapore, and India which serves authentic purely vegetarian South Indian food. Originally based out of Chennai, I had the good fortune of being able to eat at the original restaurants there, and must say the food was mouth numbingly good. I guess the local touch makes a difference.
The restaurant here is not quite as good as the one in Chennai, but is still most definately worth a visit. I am in fact more impressed by their non-dosa dishes. I think there are better places to get a dosa in Vancouver. However, the items like Uttapam, Idli, and Vadai are excellent. The Vancouver location has expanded its menu to include North Indian vegetarian dishes as well. The service that day was a bit poor, as we had come near closing time, and the waitress seemed to be in an off mood.
After much debate, my friend and I both decided to order the South Indian Thali, which gives you about as much food as you can possibly eat for $10. Rice, Pooris, Papadum, Sambar, Rasam, 2 Sabjis, Choley, Curd, Raita, and a Sweet Dish are served to you in steel vessels. For the first time in my life, I asked for a second helping of RASAM :S. I was pretty close this time, as only one of the Sabjis managed to survive the wrath of my rampaging stomach. I topped this off with a cup of filter coffee. If you think Starbucks, Blenz or Seattles Best is good coffee, you really need to try authentic South Indian Filter coffee, as it is simply amazing. I could write a separate blog on that alone.
Veg lovers rejoice, Saravanaa Bhavan was made for you.
Service: 3/5
Location/Ambiance: 3/5
Food: 4/5
955 W. Broadway
Vancouver, BC
Was feeling hungry on my way back to campus last Tuesday evening, in the mood for vegetarian, so I decided to convince a friend to join me for dinner at Saravanaa Bhavan restaurant. Have been here plenty of times, but this is my first blog review.
Saravanaa Bhavan is a well known chain spread throughout the world, with locations in Canada, the USA, Australia, Europe, Singapore, and India which serves authentic purely vegetarian South Indian food. Originally based out of Chennai, I had the good fortune of being able to eat at the original restaurants there, and must say the food was mouth numbingly good. I guess the local touch makes a difference.
The restaurant here is not quite as good as the one in Chennai, but is still most definately worth a visit. I am in fact more impressed by their non-dosa dishes. I think there are better places to get a dosa in Vancouver. However, the items like Uttapam, Idli, and Vadai are excellent. The Vancouver location has expanded its menu to include North Indian vegetarian dishes as well. The service that day was a bit poor, as we had come near closing time, and the waitress seemed to be in an off mood.
After much debate, my friend and I both decided to order the South Indian Thali, which gives you about as much food as you can possibly eat for $10. Rice, Pooris, Papadum, Sambar, Rasam, 2 Sabjis, Choley, Curd, Raita, and a Sweet Dish are served to you in steel vessels. For the first time in my life, I asked for a second helping of RASAM :S. I was pretty close this time, as only one of the Sabjis managed to survive the wrath of my rampaging stomach. I topped this off with a cup of filter coffee. If you think Starbucks, Blenz or Seattles Best is good coffee, you really need to try authentic South Indian Filter coffee, as it is simply amazing. I could write a separate blog on that alone.
Veg lovers rejoice, Saravanaa Bhavan was made for you.
Service: 3/5
Location/Ambiance: 3/5
Food: 4/5
Sunday, June 13, 2010
Restaurant Review: Green Lettuce Restaurant
Green Lettuce Restaurant
112-6350 120 St
Surrey, BC
Time for a review that I probably should have done months ago. This is a review for Green Lettuce Restaurant, a restaurant I have been to dozens of times, and is one of the most well known restaurants, especially amongst the South Asian Community in the Lower Mainland. Why is it so well known? Well, this is one of the few places outside of India where you can get chinese food which is authentically prepared in Indian style. Surprised? Don't be. Eastern India has a sizable Chinese population, in fact, Kolkata has a large Chinatown located in a part of the city called Tangra. Of late, these Chinese have begun to migrate throughout the world, and many of them have come to Vancouver and have opened up their own restaurants serving Chinese food which has been modified and enhanced from their own experiences to make the Indian crowd happy. So when you enter the restaurant, don't be surprised if you are greeted in Hindi or Bengali, rather than in Mandarin or Cantonese! Although there are no less than 6 different Indo Chinese restaurants now open in the Lower Mainland, Green Lettuce is probably the most well known as it is the oldest (open for 11 years now) and has served many famous Indian celebrities when they come here from India. In fact, there are a pictures on the wall of Bollywood royalty like Aishwarya Rai, Hrithik Roshan and Lucky Ali chowing down at the restaurant on their plates of Gobi Manchurian and Hakka Noodles!
As I have been to this place many times, I think I have tried most items on the menu. However, this time, I went with my office colleagues in a group of 10, many of whom had not tried this food before. Consiequently we ordered quite a few dishes. Cream Corn and Chicken Soup, Vege Pakoras and Chicken skewers were the appetizers, Hakka Vege Chow Mein, Hakka Chicken Chow Mein, Gobi Manchurian, Bombay Style Chop Suey, Chili Paneer, Ginger Fish, Dai Ching Chicken, and Pineapple Chicken were part of the main course. Afterwards we were too stuffed for dessert, although experience dictates that one should try the Almond Kulfi if you have room.
I definately recommend you try the dishes which are spicier and have more of an Indian twist to them. No other chinese restaurant serves paneer as part of their meals, and the Gobi Manchurian is unique and I have never had cauliflower prepared in a better manner. The Dai Ching chicken is also particularly good, although some might find it a bit too spicy.
Good, friendly, service and reasonable prices combined with the fantastic food make this place a must visit for all visitors and residents of Vancouver.
Service: 4/5
Location/Ambiance: 3/5
Food: 4/5
112-6350 120 St
Surrey, BC
Time for a review that I probably should have done months ago. This is a review for Green Lettuce Restaurant, a restaurant I have been to dozens of times, and is one of the most well known restaurants, especially amongst the South Asian Community in the Lower Mainland. Why is it so well known? Well, this is one of the few places outside of India where you can get chinese food which is authentically prepared in Indian style. Surprised? Don't be. Eastern India has a sizable Chinese population, in fact, Kolkata has a large Chinatown located in a part of the city called Tangra. Of late, these Chinese have begun to migrate throughout the world, and many of them have come to Vancouver and have opened up their own restaurants serving Chinese food which has been modified and enhanced from their own experiences to make the Indian crowd happy. So when you enter the restaurant, don't be surprised if you are greeted in Hindi or Bengali, rather than in Mandarin or Cantonese! Although there are no less than 6 different Indo Chinese restaurants now open in the Lower Mainland, Green Lettuce is probably the most well known as it is the oldest (open for 11 years now) and has served many famous Indian celebrities when they come here from India. In fact, there are a pictures on the wall of Bollywood royalty like Aishwarya Rai, Hrithik Roshan and Lucky Ali chowing down at the restaurant on their plates of Gobi Manchurian and Hakka Noodles!
As I have been to this place many times, I think I have tried most items on the menu. However, this time, I went with my office colleagues in a group of 10, many of whom had not tried this food before. Consiequently we ordered quite a few dishes. Cream Corn and Chicken Soup, Vege Pakoras and Chicken skewers were the appetizers, Hakka Vege Chow Mein, Hakka Chicken Chow Mein, Gobi Manchurian, Bombay Style Chop Suey, Chili Paneer, Ginger Fish, Dai Ching Chicken, and Pineapple Chicken were part of the main course. Afterwards we were too stuffed for dessert, although experience dictates that one should try the Almond Kulfi if you have room.
I definately recommend you try the dishes which are spicier and have more of an Indian twist to them. No other chinese restaurant serves paneer as part of their meals, and the Gobi Manchurian is unique and I have never had cauliflower prepared in a better manner. The Dai Ching chicken is also particularly good, although some might find it a bit too spicy.
Good, friendly, service and reasonable prices combined with the fantastic food make this place a must visit for all visitors and residents of Vancouver.
Service: 4/5
Location/Ambiance: 3/5
Food: 4/5
Saturday, June 5, 2010
The Big Fat Indo-Canadian Wedding
Several of my very good friends are getting married this summer, and I guess I get to take a more active role this time around. I have attended a few weddings in India, but mostly as an outside guest, and not a member of the 'inner circle'. Perhaps for this reason, although I have enjoyed the weddings I have experienced in India, I definately have more knowledge of what goes on at the Canadian version.
One of the nice things about the Canadian version is how it is possible to try and blend the old traditions in with the new. Mehndi/Haldi is commonly done, and the ceremony itself is usually held at the Mandir/Masjid/Gurudwara. But along side of this, things like the 'First Dance', Cake Cutting, and Introductory Slide Shows of the happy couple have been silently incorporated into the festivities.
No doubt the Indian version is purely authentic, but the Canadianized version can be quite a blast. In fact, people go all out to try and imitate the glitz of the posher Indian weddings, which I am quite sure is inspired by what we are exposed to in Bollywood movies. While it is difficult to copy the wedding ceremonies themselves, mainly due to lack of time, and facilities, it seems as if a concious decision is made to try and outdo one another at the wedding reception(s). These days, things are stage managed, with professional photographers, videographers, the most glamorous of dresses, expensive jewelery, color themes (yes, it is imperative that the seat covers must be color coordinated with the grooms tie apparently), slide shows, stage performances, DJs, bad jokes by the MC, etc, etc, etc... The lowest cost I hear of these days at a wedding is not less than 50k, with richer couples spending upwards of 6 figures on their wedding festivities! Wow, with costs like that, it is probably good to remain a bachelor!!! To be honest, I am sure that in the midst of trying to impress family, friends, relatives and strangers the families of the bride and groom are probably stretching themselves to the limit, but heck, they want us to enjoy, and enjoy we do to the max!!!
The food... ah the food... the quality of a recpetion is judged not by the happiness of the bride and groom, but by how many appetizers are served (usually not less than 3). You have heard of a 6 course dinner? Well how about a 6 course appetizer? Vege Pakoras, Tandoori Chicken, Fish Pakoras, Paapri Chat, Tandoori Rumal Rotis, Gol Gappe... yes my friends, this is quite common. And I haven't even started with dinner yet.
To wrap up, just a list of stereotypes which I find applicable to most, if not all Indo Canadian wedding receptions (and I am sure those who have been in my position can add to this list, so I would like to encourage you to do so):
1) Butter Chicken. I have not encountered a wedding reception where this has not been served. Even if the bride and groom are vegetarians, to keep the meat eaters happy, somehow, this dish makes it into all of the dinner menus.
2) Michael Jackson. I do not understand why, but for some reason when playing the English Music, most DJs are obsessed with playing 'Thriller' as many times as possible during the night...
3) Crazy Dancing Aunty. There is always one crazy aunty who rocks the dance floor (or at least thinks she is rocking the dance floor). You can recognize this aunty as there is usually a circle of wide eyed younger people who dance in a circle around her in a mesmorized trance.
4) Drunk Uncle. There is always one alcoholic uncle who has a few too many during the night and ends up on the dance floor trying to do the Macarena while balancing a half-empty bottle on his head. It never works... you can recognize this uncle as the tie he is wearing usually starts off around his neck, and ends up around his forehead.
5) The Performance by a Relative. Sometimes good, usually a snooze, the bride/grooms nephew/niece/brother/sister/6th cousin is inevitably forced to do a dance performance during the reception. The good thing for the performer is that no matter how the performance is, he/she is rewarded by crazy dancing aunty (see number 3 above) who will come up, and join in the dance near the end and reward the performers with no less than $20.
6) The hopeless MC. I have attended very few weddings where the MC has actually been good. Usually its not even his/her fault, as people are too busy eating/gossiping/getting sloshed at the open bar. Usually he/she fades into the background, and their lasting memories are unfortunately of having made bad jokes, and dealing with poorly functioning A/V eqpt.
7) Irritating glass tappers in the audience. One of the weirder rituals that seems to have been picked up from western weddings, is that of someone in the audience tapping on their drinking glass loudly with their silverware during the reception. This is to indicate that it is time for the bride and groom to publicly display their affection for each other in front of everyone with a kiss on the lips. Unfortunately, with Indian weddings, the bride and groom are usually too shy/terrified for any PDA, and so instead, are forced to uncomfortably sit still while the irritating glass tappers tap on their glasses until they finally run out of strength in their wrists...
One of the nice things about the Canadian version is how it is possible to try and blend the old traditions in with the new. Mehndi/Haldi is commonly done, and the ceremony itself is usually held at the Mandir/Masjid/Gurudwara. But along side of this, things like the 'First Dance', Cake Cutting, and Introductory Slide Shows of the happy couple have been silently incorporated into the festivities.
No doubt the Indian version is purely authentic, but the Canadianized version can be quite a blast. In fact, people go all out to try and imitate the glitz of the posher Indian weddings, which I am quite sure is inspired by what we are exposed to in Bollywood movies. While it is difficult to copy the wedding ceremonies themselves, mainly due to lack of time, and facilities, it seems as if a concious decision is made to try and outdo one another at the wedding reception(s). These days, things are stage managed, with professional photographers, videographers, the most glamorous of dresses, expensive jewelery, color themes (yes, it is imperative that the seat covers must be color coordinated with the grooms tie apparently), slide shows, stage performances, DJs, bad jokes by the MC, etc, etc, etc... The lowest cost I hear of these days at a wedding is not less than 50k, with richer couples spending upwards of 6 figures on their wedding festivities! Wow, with costs like that, it is probably good to remain a bachelor!!! To be honest, I am sure that in the midst of trying to impress family, friends, relatives and strangers the families of the bride and groom are probably stretching themselves to the limit, but heck, they want us to enjoy, and enjoy we do to the max!!!
The food... ah the food... the quality of a recpetion is judged not by the happiness of the bride and groom, but by how many appetizers are served (usually not less than 3). You have heard of a 6 course dinner? Well how about a 6 course appetizer? Vege Pakoras, Tandoori Chicken, Fish Pakoras, Paapri Chat, Tandoori Rumal Rotis, Gol Gappe... yes my friends, this is quite common. And I haven't even started with dinner yet.
To wrap up, just a list of stereotypes which I find applicable to most, if not all Indo Canadian wedding receptions (and I am sure those who have been in my position can add to this list, so I would like to encourage you to do so):
1) Butter Chicken. I have not encountered a wedding reception where this has not been served. Even if the bride and groom are vegetarians, to keep the meat eaters happy, somehow, this dish makes it into all of the dinner menus.
2) Michael Jackson. I do not understand why, but for some reason when playing the English Music, most DJs are obsessed with playing 'Thriller' as many times as possible during the night...
3) Crazy Dancing Aunty. There is always one crazy aunty who rocks the dance floor (or at least thinks she is rocking the dance floor). You can recognize this aunty as there is usually a circle of wide eyed younger people who dance in a circle around her in a mesmorized trance.
4) Drunk Uncle. There is always one alcoholic uncle who has a few too many during the night and ends up on the dance floor trying to do the Macarena while balancing a half-empty bottle on his head. It never works... you can recognize this uncle as the tie he is wearing usually starts off around his neck, and ends up around his forehead.
5) The Performance by a Relative. Sometimes good, usually a snooze, the bride/grooms nephew/niece/brother/sister/6th cousin is inevitably forced to do a dance performance during the reception. The good thing for the performer is that no matter how the performance is, he/she is rewarded by crazy dancing aunty (see number 3 above) who will come up, and join in the dance near the end and reward the performers with no less than $20.
6) The hopeless MC. I have attended very few weddings where the MC has actually been good. Usually its not even his/her fault, as people are too busy eating/gossiping/getting sloshed at the open bar. Usually he/she fades into the background, and their lasting memories are unfortunately of having made bad jokes, and dealing with poorly functioning A/V eqpt.
7) Irritating glass tappers in the audience. One of the weirder rituals that seems to have been picked up from western weddings, is that of someone in the audience tapping on their drinking glass loudly with their silverware during the reception. This is to indicate that it is time for the bride and groom to publicly display their affection for each other in front of everyone with a kiss on the lips. Unfortunately, with Indian weddings, the bride and groom are usually too shy/terrified for any PDA, and so instead, are forced to uncomfortably sit still while the irritating glass tappers tap on their glasses until they finally run out of strength in their wrists...
Saturday, May 29, 2010
On Top of a Mountain
Went for a camping trip this past weekend to the provincial capital of Victoria. As I have seen most of the sights about 9 times there, wasn't really much to be excited about. However, quite often, the group makes the trip, and got to go with a great group of people, to have a memorable time.
Special congrats to one member of our group who went hiking for the first time, and almost made it to the top! :) Well done!!!
Undoubtedly for me, the highlight had to be the hike to the top of Mt. Finlayson, in Goldstream Provincial Park, just about 30 min outside of the city. I hadn't gone hiking since my Europe trip last year, and was a sobering reminder of just how out of shape I have become. On the other hand, next time I go hiking, I should probably remember to wear good shoes, not wear jeans, and keep some water IN my water bottle before starting up the hill.
More than anything in the world, I appreciate silence. There is something special about 5 guys sitting totally silent (although one of them was not quite silent) at the top of a hill just admiring the view after a sweaty journey. Since the feeling is kind of indescrible, I shall let the picture do the talking...
Special congrats to one member of our group who went hiking for the first time, and almost made it to the top! :) Well done!!!
Thursday, May 27, 2010
Restaurant Review: Sala Thai
Sala Thai on Cambie
3364 Cambie St.
Vancouver, BC
Another Thai restaurant, another awesome experience. Went out for a group lunch with my office colleagues last week, to another Thai place. As usual, food was absolutely superb. As there were Vegetarians, and Non-Vegetarians amongst us, we tried a variety of dishes, both Veg and Non Veg, including some new surprises. I would like to recommend 2 of them:
1) Gai Hor Bai Toey: Tender pices of chicken marinated in a honey sauce, and wrapped in pandamus leaves. A unique twist on the common chicken skewers, with larger pieces of chicken marinated just enough to make them sweet and spicy, and wrapped in pandamus leaves. Delicicous to look at, even more delicious to eat!
2) Thai Iced Tea: Yes, even their Iced Tea is awesome. It is served with the milk and black tea separated into two layers. Mixed together, forms the sweetest of nectars. A must order.
Obviously, go here.
3364 Cambie St.
Vancouver, BC
Another Thai restaurant, another awesome experience. Went out for a group lunch with my office colleagues last week, to another Thai place. As usual, food was absolutely superb. As there were Vegetarians, and Non-Vegetarians amongst us, we tried a variety of dishes, both Veg and Non Veg, including some new surprises. I would like to recommend 2 of them:
1) Gai Hor Bai Toey: Tender pices of chicken marinated in a honey sauce, and wrapped in pandamus leaves. A unique twist on the common chicken skewers, with larger pieces of chicken marinated just enough to make them sweet and spicy, and wrapped in pandamus leaves. Delicicous to look at, even more delicious to eat!
2) Thai Iced Tea: Yes, even their Iced Tea is awesome. It is served with the milk and black tea separated into two layers. Mixed together, forms the sweetest of nectars. A must order.
Obviously, go here.
Service: 4/5
Location/Ambiance: 3/5
Food: 4/5
Wednesday, April 28, 2010
Commercials
Question... why are North American TV commercials so crappy?
This has come to my attention each and every time I travel outside of the continent, come home, and am forced to subject myself to the unimaginative, unentertaining drudge that pops up every few minutes on my TV screen.
North American TV shows are followed around the world, and are so popular. Why then, can't the commercials be of the same quality? For some reason, people are afraid to push the edges in some cases, or in other cases, prefer to convey the message in a direct, uninteresting way. Commercials in India or Europe, are to me, far wittier, cute, and comedic, and actually stay in my mind after the ad is over. Someties the ads are better than the programs.
I don't think a North American commercial has EVER enticed me to buy the product after watching the ad. Even the Super Bowl ads are usually nothing to go gaga over. For a continent so rooted in commercialism, our commercials are definately a drag...
This has come to my attention each and every time I travel outside of the continent, come home, and am forced to subject myself to the unimaginative, unentertaining drudge that pops up every few minutes on my TV screen.
North American TV shows are followed around the world, and are so popular. Why then, can't the commercials be of the same quality? For some reason, people are afraid to push the edges in some cases, or in other cases, prefer to convey the message in a direct, uninteresting way. Commercials in India or Europe, are to me, far wittier, cute, and comedic, and actually stay in my mind after the ad is over. Someties the ads are better than the programs.
I don't think a North American commercial has EVER enticed me to buy the product after watching the ad. Even the Super Bowl ads are usually nothing to go gaga over. For a continent so rooted in commercialism, our commercials are definately a drag...
Saturday, April 10, 2010
Restaurant Review: Lacasita
Lacasita
101 W. Cordova St
Vancouver, BC
Why is it that I can never write a good review about a Mexican Restaurant in Vancouver? Hmmm... I wonder...
Lacasita is a Mexican restaurant located at the edge of Gastown in downtown Vancouver. I suppose the idea was to make the restaurant look as authentic as possible, and as such, it is decorated very nicely with a Spanish Movie playing on a flat screen TV, Sombreros on the wall, and a very cozy feel. However, it is equally important that the food be of the same high quality, and unfortunately, that is where Lacasita has fallen short.
I ordered a combo meal which featured 1 Quesidilla, 1 Flauta, Beans, and Salad. Neither was the taste impressive, as I found it to be quite bland, nor were the portions, which were far too small. I decided to order an ice cream to fill my stomach, as it was quite deliciously described in the menu, but turned out to be nothing more than a scoop of ice cream which you could purchase at any neighborhood Safeway with a bit of whipping cream and cinnamon on top. It actually didn't taste that bad, but I was just expecting a lot more.
I would suggest if you are in the area, avoid Lacasita, as there are better restaurants around in Gastown to enjoy.
Service: 2/5
Location/Ambiance: 4/5
Food: 2/5
101 W. Cordova St
Vancouver, BC
Why is it that I can never write a good review about a Mexican Restaurant in Vancouver? Hmmm... I wonder...
Lacasita is a Mexican restaurant located at the edge of Gastown in downtown Vancouver. I suppose the idea was to make the restaurant look as authentic as possible, and as such, it is decorated very nicely with a Spanish Movie playing on a flat screen TV, Sombreros on the wall, and a very cozy feel. However, it is equally important that the food be of the same high quality, and unfortunately, that is where Lacasita has fallen short.
I ordered a combo meal which featured 1 Quesidilla, 1 Flauta, Beans, and Salad. Neither was the taste impressive, as I found it to be quite bland, nor were the portions, which were far too small. I decided to order an ice cream to fill my stomach, as it was quite deliciously described in the menu, but turned out to be nothing more than a scoop of ice cream which you could purchase at any neighborhood Safeway with a bit of whipping cream and cinnamon on top. It actually didn't taste that bad, but I was just expecting a lot more.
I would suggest if you are in the area, avoid Lacasita, as there are better restaurants around in Gastown to enjoy.
Service: 2/5
Location/Ambiance: 4/5
Food: 2/5
'Dreaming with a Broken Heart'
I listened to this for the first time a few days ago... normally don't like John Mayer, but I read the lyrics and thought they were worth a post...
'When you're dreaming with a broken heart, the waking up is the hardest part...
You roll out of bed and on your knees, and for a moment there you can hardly breath...
Wondering was she really here?
Is she standing in my room?
No shes not... cause shes gone, gone, gone, gone, gone...'
'When you're dreaming with a broken heart, the giving up is the hardest part...
She takes you in with her big, brown eyes, then all at once, you have to say goodbye...
Wondering could you stay my love?
Would you wake up by my side?
No you won't... cause you're gone, gone, gone, gone, gone...'
'When you're dreaming with a broken heart, the waking up is the hardest part...
You roll out of bed and on your knees, and for a moment there you can hardly breath...
Wondering was she really here?
Is she standing in my room?
No shes not... cause shes gone, gone, gone, gone, gone...'
'When you're dreaming with a broken heart, the giving up is the hardest part...
She takes you in with her big, brown eyes, then all at once, you have to say goodbye...
Wondering could you stay my love?
Would you wake up by my side?
No you won't... cause you're gone, gone, gone, gone, gone...'
Thursday, April 8, 2010
A year in the life of an Exec...
My term as Vice President of Utsav: The Indian Students Association at UBC came to an end a few weeks ago. It is quite ironic that I feel a bit nostalgic about it being over considering just how hesitant I was to become an executive this year in the first place. I almost had to be dragged kicking and screaming into the position!
By no means were we the perfect exec, but I do think that we did manage to set a new standard in terms of professionalism, organization and execution for the club. Not all of our events were a success, but the ones that were, will certainly be remembered for years to come. Of course, it helped that we were able to piggyback off of some of the good ideas of previous execs, but in general, we were quite satisfied with out performance. It is actually a good life lesson as you learn alot about team work and time management when you are put in such positions, and guess what, we even managed to have a bit of fun as well! :)
To the next team, I wish you the best of luck, and hope you are even more successful than we were. To our team, I won't name everyone individually, but it was truly an honor and a joy to work with you all, and I am happy that I was able to make 8 great new friends this year! Cheers!
Tuesday, April 6, 2010
(Anti) Social Networking
I read a very interesting billboard sticker the other day which got me thinking. It read, "Why do we have more Facebook Friends than Real Life Friends"?
To be honest, I don't even remember what the sticker was advertising, but the question was quite relevant. I have nearly 300 friends on Facebook, and to be really honest, I think I would be lying if I said I was actually in regular contact with any more than 50 of them at any given moment in time.
Social Networking is an interesting phenomenon. Undoubtedly, it has its advantages. It has allowed me to get in touch with and rediscover what long lost friends are upto. It is a nice time pass. And I guess moreover, it satisfies the secret desire we all have to find out what is going on in each others personal lives.
The question that we must ask ourselves is when is it too much? Is social networking actually making us ANTIsocial? Where I once used to phone or meet my friends to pass on my birthday wishes, it has now become far more convenient to leave a message on their wall. Real life discussions these days seem to always make some mention of what someone posted on some social networking site. It seems our virtual lives are taking precidence over our actual lives. Given the astonishing rate at which the internet and social networking sites are becoming integral parts of our lives, it will be interesting to see just how social or anti social we become.
To be honest, I don't even remember what the sticker was advertising, but the question was quite relevant. I have nearly 300 friends on Facebook, and to be really honest, I think I would be lying if I said I was actually in regular contact with any more than 50 of them at any given moment in time.
Social Networking is an interesting phenomenon. Undoubtedly, it has its advantages. It has allowed me to get in touch with and rediscover what long lost friends are upto. It is a nice time pass. And I guess moreover, it satisfies the secret desire we all have to find out what is going on in each others personal lives.
The question that we must ask ourselves is when is it too much? Is social networking actually making us ANTIsocial? Where I once used to phone or meet my friends to pass on my birthday wishes, it has now become far more convenient to leave a message on their wall. Real life discussions these days seem to always make some mention of what someone posted on some social networking site. It seems our virtual lives are taking precidence over our actual lives. Given the astonishing rate at which the internet and social networking sites are becoming integral parts of our lives, it will be interesting to see just how social or anti social we become.
Sunday, April 4, 2010
Restaurant Review: The Afghan Horsemen
The Afghan Horsemen
202-1833 Anderson Street
Vancouver, BC, V6H 4E5
Located at the entrance to Granville Island, The Afghan Horsemen is one of Vancouvers better known Afghan restaurants. Shame on me that it happened to be my first visit here! It is a favorite restaurant of a friend of mine, and we happened to head there for her birthday.
Well, one of the nicest things about the restaurant is its ambiance. They have tried to maintain an authentic 'Afghani' feel. If you come in a group big enough, you can get your own room where you sit on the floor and eat off of lowered tables. There are fine persian carpets and decorative hookahs everywhere, giving you that 'Lawrence of Arabia' feel. I am told that apparently you can hire a Belly Dancer to perform as well, but unfortunately, she was not on the menu that day... :(
Well, as for the food, I tried the 'Karahi', which is an authentic Afghan dish consisting of Lamb Shish Kebab with sauteed onions, green peppers, tomatoes, onions and fried eggs, served sizzling hot. The food has a somewhat Indian feel to it, is somewhat spicy, and I liked it very much. I don't know about how healthy it is, but there is no doubt that Afghans and Pakistanis have mastered the art of Non-Veg cuisine.
I must say the price is a bit lofty. My dish cost $20, and after, taxes, tip, and drinks, an individual bill can easily come out to $30. So be ready to leave with a lighter wallet when you enter. A quick note about the service. Although in general, the service was friendly and prompt, we had a bit of confusion surrounding paying the bill, which took about 15 min to resolve. The problem may have been because we came in a large group, but still, isn't really excusable.
Service: 2/5
Ambiance/Location: 4/5
Food: 3/5
202-1833 Anderson Street
Vancouver, BC, V6H 4E5
Located at the entrance to Granville Island, The Afghan Horsemen is one of Vancouvers better known Afghan restaurants. Shame on me that it happened to be my first visit here! It is a favorite restaurant of a friend of mine, and we happened to head there for her birthday.
Well, one of the nicest things about the restaurant is its ambiance. They have tried to maintain an authentic 'Afghani' feel. If you come in a group big enough, you can get your own room where you sit on the floor and eat off of lowered tables. There are fine persian carpets and decorative hookahs everywhere, giving you that 'Lawrence of Arabia' feel. I am told that apparently you can hire a Belly Dancer to perform as well, but unfortunately, she was not on the menu that day... :(
Well, as for the food, I tried the 'Karahi', which is an authentic Afghan dish consisting of Lamb Shish Kebab with sauteed onions, green peppers, tomatoes, onions and fried eggs, served sizzling hot. The food has a somewhat Indian feel to it, is somewhat spicy, and I liked it very much. I don't know about how healthy it is, but there is no doubt that Afghans and Pakistanis have mastered the art of Non-Veg cuisine.
I must say the price is a bit lofty. My dish cost $20, and after, taxes, tip, and drinks, an individual bill can easily come out to $30. So be ready to leave with a lighter wallet when you enter. A quick note about the service. Although in general, the service was friendly and prompt, we had a bit of confusion surrounding paying the bill, which took about 15 min to resolve. The problem may have been because we came in a large group, but still, isn't really excusable.
Service: 2/5
Ambiance/Location: 4/5
Food: 3/5
Monday, March 29, 2010
Pride and Prejudice
It's been a while since I posted anything. In truth, the past few weeks have been not too eventful... nothing earthshattering has really been happening in Vancouver/on campus, and I haven't had any great revelations to share with the world.
I have been having some random thoughts lately about peoples preconceptions, and essentially our prejudices. I have written blog articles in the past condemning people for being racist/biased against others for no reason. But I wonder, is it okay to have a prejudice if that prejudice is not hurting anyone? I have my own prejudices against people, thoughts, and ideas... but as much as possible I am tolerant of others, even if I don't accept/agree with them. Usually, I just dismiss anything I don't agree with, without actually considering the other side of the argument. I don't think that makes me a bigot, but I wonder what it is about this mind block that keeps me rooted in my mental comfort zone. Sometimes, I wonder if it has stunted my growth as an individual... hmmmn...
Sorry for the boring post people... next time, I shall try to write something more juicy.
I have been having some random thoughts lately about peoples preconceptions, and essentially our prejudices. I have written blog articles in the past condemning people for being racist/biased against others for no reason. But I wonder, is it okay to have a prejudice if that prejudice is not hurting anyone? I have my own prejudices against people, thoughts, and ideas... but as much as possible I am tolerant of others, even if I don't accept/agree with them. Usually, I just dismiss anything I don't agree with, without actually considering the other side of the argument. I don't think that makes me a bigot, but I wonder what it is about this mind block that keeps me rooted in my mental comfort zone. Sometimes, I wonder if it has stunted my growth as an individual... hmmmn...
Sorry for the boring post people... next time, I shall try to write something more juicy.
Sunday, March 7, 2010
Restaurant Review: Andales Mexican Restaurant
Andales Mexican Restaurant
3211 W. Broadway
Vancouver, BC
Andales is a small Mexican restaurant located in Van West. We went there for an office lunch last week. While generally I am positive with my restaurant reviews, I have to say that there is not much to be positive about here.
We went in at 1:00PM, the restaurant was fairly empty save for one large group who was paying their bill. Unfortunately, there was only one waitress serving at the time, which meant that we had to seat ourselves, get our own menus, and were not even offered water to start off with. Given that the service was this bad when the restaurant was empty, I shudder to think what it may be like at peak times.
As for the food itself, nothing special. For more authentic mexican taste, I would recommend other restaurants in Vancouver. I tried the Soft Chicken taco, which came with Black Beans and Green Salad as sides. The taste was really rather bland, and far too mild for Mexican food. While the prices were reasonable (around $10 per plate), I felt the portions were too small.
I do not recommend this restaurant... there are better Mexican restaurants in Vancouver which you should explore first, and there are better restaurants around in that part of Vancouver.
3211 W. Broadway
Vancouver, BC
Andales is a small Mexican restaurant located in Van West. We went there for an office lunch last week. While generally I am positive with my restaurant reviews, I have to say that there is not much to be positive about here.
We went in at 1:00PM, the restaurant was fairly empty save for one large group who was paying their bill. Unfortunately, there was only one waitress serving at the time, which meant that we had to seat ourselves, get our own menus, and were not even offered water to start off with. Given that the service was this bad when the restaurant was empty, I shudder to think what it may be like at peak times.
As for the food itself, nothing special. For more authentic mexican taste, I would recommend other restaurants in Vancouver. I tried the Soft Chicken taco, which came with Black Beans and Green Salad as sides. The taste was really rather bland, and far too mild for Mexican food. While the prices were reasonable (around $10 per plate), I felt the portions were too small.
I do not recommend this restaurant... there are better Mexican restaurants in Vancouver which you should explore first, and there are better restaurants around in that part of Vancouver.
Service: 1/5
Ambiance/Location: 3/5
Food: 2/5
Tuesday, March 2, 2010
The Olympics
The Winter Olympics just ended 2 days ago in Vancouver. I wasn't totally sure what to expect, but have to say that the city did an amazing job, and I say to any person around the world, that the Olympics spirit is truly something that everyone should experience. The idea of the Olympics was to promote peace and unity through sport. Now I won't say that watching the athletes has inspired me to try and unify the world (in fact, I think I became highly biased towards a particular country when watching a sport), it was wonderful to see people of different colors, races, genders and cultures come together in one city, for no other reason than simply to get together and celebrate. In that respect, the Olympic ideal was very much successful in Vancouver, 2010. Each person who was here will have their own 'moments to remember'... here, in no particular order, are mine:
1) Watching 'Sid-the-kid':
Lets face it... it didn't matter how many medals Canada won, the one that really mattered was in Mens Hockey... GOLD. After 60 heartstopping minutes, the game was forced into sudden death overtime... everyone in the country was on the edge of their seats... the stage was set, the circumstances couldn't have been more perfect, as Sidney Crosby rose to the occasion and became a Canadian legend for the ages by beating Ryan Miller shortside to send the country into a state of pandemonium. You couldn't have scripted a better ending to the Olympics.
2) Livecity Yaletown
Sadly, due to laziness and lack of money, I didn't actually get to attend any of the sporting events in person. No matter, as there was plenty of other free events going on throughout the city. The Olympic Cauldron, Robson Square, Street Parties on Granville Street, The Art Gallery, Livecities Downtown, Richmond and Surrey. Of all of them, my favorite was the site at Livecity Yaletown. The Coca-cola pavillion and the Panasonic pavillions were here, along with a huge stage, and live music. at 10:30PM every night, there was an amazing highlights show, with fireworks, which was shown on two humongous screens and projected onto a fountain of water streaming out of False Creek. You had to see it to really appreciate it. Two big thumbs up to the organizers at this site.
3) Steamworks Brewery
For some reason, every night we went out we seemed to end up here at the mouth of Gastown for a drink (or two). It is ridiculously expensive, but was still loads of fun getting together with different groups of friends and then heading home ridiculously late at night. Avoid the prawn tempura though... ;)
4) Canadian Nationalism
I read an interesting article describing that Canada woke up on Monday morning with a 'sense of ease' about itself. I think that was a very good way to describe it. To some extent we definately have a complex about our neighbors to the south. Consiquently, we tend to get swept up into their identity and forget about our own. It was wonderful to see so many Maple Leafs flying everywhere, all the smiling faces, people randomly breaking into the national anthem, high fiving and hugging for no reason. Canada was patriotic, without being crass. It is at ease with itself knowing that it has the capacity to compete and succeed with the rest of the world without having to dominate the rest of the world. Best of all, Vancouver proved that it is truly multicultural... I saw people from every community, Persian, Indian, Chinese, Caucasian, African, Latin, etc, all celebrating being Canadian proudly.
Sunday, February 21, 2010
Feeling sick...
Its the Olympics, and I know I shouldn't be feeling blue, but I feel sick... not of the physical variety...
Sick of research... sick of Undergrads knocking on my office door... sick of answering questions about life I don't know the answer too... sick of people... sick of egos... sick of lies... sick of telling myself the glass is half full when I know its half empty... sick of putting on a smile for the world...
Sigh... I need a doctor.
Sick of research... sick of Undergrads knocking on my office door... sick of answering questions about life I don't know the answer too... sick of people... sick of egos... sick of lies... sick of telling myself the glass is half full when I know its half empty... sick of putting on a smile for the world...
Sigh... I need a doctor.
Monday, February 1, 2010
I-Buds and Bouncy Balls...
I was in a Fast Food restaurant a few days ago... after finishing my meal, I went to throw out the condiments into the garbage, and I noticed that by the trash can, there was one of those mechanical 'toy' dispensers. Basically, it is meant for little kids to put their change in, and out would pop a trinket for them to play with for a few days until they get bored with it.
Of course, when I was a kid, I had collected quite a few of these trinkets. The toys only cost $0.25, and I would end up with a toy car, maybe a candy, or my favorite, a small rubber bouncy ball (yes, I am a simple creature). So you can imagine my surprise when I noticed that the cost had gone up to $2.00, and even more interestingly, you don't get toys out of these machines anymore... for $2.00 kids can now buy earphones for their Ipods... 'Ibuds'!
Now I understand that times are changing, and kids are definitely more tech savvy than when I was a kid, and I was probably more tech saavy as a kid than my parents, and so on and so forth. But seriously? I sometimes wonder if kids even know what it is like to a 'non-virtual' toy, or actually go outside and play 'non-electronic' games. I have noticed that even my students have stopped using paper and pencil... most of them take their notes on a laptop, and 'jot' down information quickly into their cell phones. Perhaps I am getting old and cranky, but for some reason, this kind of worries me...
Keep your Ibuds kids... I prefer my rubber bouncy ball.
Thursday, January 28, 2010
Restaurant Review: Stephos Greek Taverna
Stephos Greek Taverna
1124 Davie St
Vancouver, BC
Good food, good friends and good conversation. In my opinion, those three things are the key to a wonderful evening. While you will have to discover the latter two on your own, if you go to Downtown Vancouver, on Davie St, I guarantee you can find the first in plenty.
Stephos is one of Vancouvers most famous restaurants. It has become so legendary that no matter what day you go, you will always find a lineup of at least one hour outside. And believe it or not, it is absolutely worth it. I think Greek food is healthy, balanced and delicious, and at Stephos, this is even more so. The lamb dishes here are known to be the best on the West Coast, and the best part is, that the prices are extrodinarily reasonable. You can have one of the best meals in Vancouver for no more than $15, including a glass of wine. And by the way, I don't think I have ever had a meal in which the house wine complimented the main course so well.
On this occasion, I had a Souvlaki Platter, which consisted of skewered lamb, rice, pita/tzatziki sauce, and a salad, and as I said, the taste is definately the best Greek food in Vancouver. Although I have not yet tried it, I am told the Roast Lamb is heavenly, and I also would recommend you end the meal with a piece of Iki Miki (Baklava).
As for the latter two things I mentioned at the beginning of this review, on that particular evening, I was blessed with having them both in plenty, and although one of them was a bit inebriated, made for a memorable dining experience. ;)
1124 Davie St
Vancouver, BC
Good food, good friends and good conversation. In my opinion, those three things are the key to a wonderful evening. While you will have to discover the latter two on your own, if you go to Downtown Vancouver, on Davie St, I guarantee you can find the first in plenty.
Stephos is one of Vancouvers most famous restaurants. It has become so legendary that no matter what day you go, you will always find a lineup of at least one hour outside. And believe it or not, it is absolutely worth it. I think Greek food is healthy, balanced and delicious, and at Stephos, this is even more so. The lamb dishes here are known to be the best on the West Coast, and the best part is, that the prices are extrodinarily reasonable. You can have one of the best meals in Vancouver for no more than $15, including a glass of wine. And by the way, I don't think I have ever had a meal in which the house wine complimented the main course so well.
On this occasion, I had a Souvlaki Platter, which consisted of skewered lamb, rice, pita/tzatziki sauce, and a salad, and as I said, the taste is definately the best Greek food in Vancouver. Although I have not yet tried it, I am told the Roast Lamb is heavenly, and I also would recommend you end the meal with a piece of Iki Miki (Baklava).
As for the latter two things I mentioned at the beginning of this review, on that particular evening, I was blessed with having them both in plenty, and although one of them was a bit inebriated, made for a memorable dining experience. ;)
Service : 3/5
Ambiance/Location: 4/5
Food: 5/5
Helplessness...
The scenes that I have seen unfolding on the television in Haiti over the past few days have truly been heartwrenching. You cannot help but feel despair when you think about the kind of hell Haitians are being subjected to. I feel a special sense of despair being a Civil Engineer, and that too, one with a good knowledge of structural engineering. It frustrates you when you know that the knowledge to minimize death and destruction due to earthquakes exists, but unfortunately, not the political backbone or the financial resources.
They say an ounce of prevention is better than a pound of cure. While I certainly encourage western governments and people to give wholeheartedly, I think it is time we took an effort to ensure everybody in the world has access to proper, safe infrastructure, as a human right and not a privellage. The west should exercise its influence to minimize corruption and provide the means to do so in countries such as Haiti, rather than just providing bandaid solutions later on. Of course, it is easy to say, and much more difficult to do, but I really hope that someday we develop the will to minimize the fallout from such natural catastrophes, rather than look onwards afterwards as helpless bystanders.
They say an ounce of prevention is better than a pound of cure. While I certainly encourage western governments and people to give wholeheartedly, I think it is time we took an effort to ensure everybody in the world has access to proper, safe infrastructure, as a human right and not a privellage. The west should exercise its influence to minimize corruption and provide the means to do so in countries such as Haiti, rather than just providing bandaid solutions later on. Of course, it is easy to say, and much more difficult to do, but I really hope that someday we develop the will to minimize the fallout from such natural catastrophes, rather than look onwards afterwards as helpless bystanders.
Restaurant Review: The Mongolie Grill
The Mongolie Grill
467 W. Broadway
Vancouver, BC
It has been a looooong break between blogs, so decided to catch up a bit tonite. Firstly is a restaurant review for a place I went to a few weeks ago, 'The Mongolie Grill'.
Mongolian food is quite interesting to eat. Not so much in its taste, but in its preparation. You prepare the meal yourself, and have them cook it for you. So, essentially, the amount, taste, and ingredients are upto you. Which means if you are frugal, you can end up making a heafty sized meal for a low price. Essentially, you are given a bowl which you are allowed to pile up with as much noodles, meats, veggies and sauces as you want/can fit, and then hand it over to the chef, who grills the concoction up right in front of you. The benefit is that you get to see your food being prepared. The drawback is you can't complain if it doesn't taste good. The taste is really highly dependant on the types and amounts of sauces you put into your bowl. This time, I got Akila to make my bowl, so it ended up being scrumpcious. Past experiences have not always been so yummy.
The cost per bowl is $9.95, and with a bit of experience in making a bowl, you will be able to build yourself a tasty, filling meal. The taste is not quite chinese, or japanese, but quite unique. Bewarned however, that there are times when it takes quite a while for the food to reach from the grill to your table when there are alot of customers. So it might be a good idea to go during off-peak hours.
Service: 3/5
Ambiance/Location: 3/5
Food: 3/5
467 W. Broadway
Vancouver, BC
It has been a looooong break between blogs, so decided to catch up a bit tonite. Firstly is a restaurant review for a place I went to a few weeks ago, 'The Mongolie Grill'.
Mongolian food is quite interesting to eat. Not so much in its taste, but in its preparation. You prepare the meal yourself, and have them cook it for you. So, essentially, the amount, taste, and ingredients are upto you. Which means if you are frugal, you can end up making a heafty sized meal for a low price. Essentially, you are given a bowl which you are allowed to pile up with as much noodles, meats, veggies and sauces as you want/can fit, and then hand it over to the chef, who grills the concoction up right in front of you. The benefit is that you get to see your food being prepared. The drawback is you can't complain if it doesn't taste good. The taste is really highly dependant on the types and amounts of sauces you put into your bowl. This time, I got Akila to make my bowl, so it ended up being scrumpcious. Past experiences have not always been so yummy.
The cost per bowl is $9.95, and with a bit of experience in making a bowl, you will be able to build yourself a tasty, filling meal. The taste is not quite chinese, or japanese, but quite unique. Bewarned however, that there are times when it takes quite a while for the food to reach from the grill to your table when there are alot of customers. So it might be a good idea to go during off-peak hours.
Service: 3/5
Ambiance/Location: 3/5
Food: 3/5
Tuesday, January 5, 2010
How do you change an ideology?
Unfortunately I will start off with my first blog of the year on a bit of a depressing note... I suppose the biggest item in the news right now is the renewed emphasis on terrorism due to the bomb scare on the plane that was flying from Amsterdam to Detroit... I am quite thankful that I was able to get all my travelling done in 2009 before this incident. As I understand it, airline security is now absolutely horrendous. No more carry-on luggage, no more blankets, no more in flight location tracking, enhanced screening devices... all in the name of preventing more possible attacks.
But where does this all end? Just how many more measures can we put in place in the name of preventing terrorism? I am sure that at this rate, we will soon see the day where passengers are forcibly strapped to their seats in nothing but their underwear and the only in flight refreshment would be a glass of water which is sipped through a straw in the presence of a AK-47 bearing security officer. Is it really going to solve anything? Just how much more of our liberties do we give away in the name of counter-terrorism? And then what... once we have secured our planes, what about the dozens of other targets which could just as easily be attacked and destroyed by the 'evil doers'...
I suggest we go on the offensive. Not literally by guns and bombs, but by fighting the root cause of the problem. Not the terrorists, but the terrorist IDEOLOGY. I firmly believe that although human beings are naturally a bit crazy, there is always some reason for when we start to do things that are highly irrational, illogical, and dangerous. The way to curb the behavior is to diagnose the reason, or the cause, and not just protect ourselves from the symptoms... to simply blame the person as being crazy and fight with them is in neither individuals best interests... if you really want peace, you have to find out what it is the root cause of the problem and try and solve it. Killing one terrorist is only going to breed 10 more. Rather, you have to kill the terrorist ideology, and not just the terrorist. Generally, terrorism is bred out of poverty and a lack of education... the young men that are boarding these planes with the hopes of blowing them up these days typically are from good homes, with at least a basic level of education. And that is what makes this problem even scarier. Exactly what the grievences are and how you address them is beyond me, but I just feel that it is in the USAs best interest to swallow its pride and at least attempt to figure out just what it is which is causing all this animosity, rather than maintaining its status quo and ignoring the root cause of the problem.
The Obama administration promised to do things differently, and given that this is its first real test with regards to issues of national security, it will be interesting to see whether those words we heard 2 summers ago were just empty promises, or if politics in America has really changed.
But where does this all end? Just how many more measures can we put in place in the name of preventing terrorism? I am sure that at this rate, we will soon see the day where passengers are forcibly strapped to their seats in nothing but their underwear and the only in flight refreshment would be a glass of water which is sipped through a straw in the presence of a AK-47 bearing security officer. Is it really going to solve anything? Just how much more of our liberties do we give away in the name of counter-terrorism? And then what... once we have secured our planes, what about the dozens of other targets which could just as easily be attacked and destroyed by the 'evil doers'...
I suggest we go on the offensive. Not literally by guns and bombs, but by fighting the root cause of the problem. Not the terrorists, but the terrorist IDEOLOGY. I firmly believe that although human beings are naturally a bit crazy, there is always some reason for when we start to do things that are highly irrational, illogical, and dangerous. The way to curb the behavior is to diagnose the reason, or the cause, and not just protect ourselves from the symptoms... to simply blame the person as being crazy and fight with them is in neither individuals best interests... if you really want peace, you have to find out what it is the root cause of the problem and try and solve it. Killing one terrorist is only going to breed 10 more. Rather, you have to kill the terrorist ideology, and not just the terrorist. Generally, terrorism is bred out of poverty and a lack of education... the young men that are boarding these planes with the hopes of blowing them up these days typically are from good homes, with at least a basic level of education. And that is what makes this problem even scarier. Exactly what the grievences are and how you address them is beyond me, but I just feel that it is in the USAs best interest to swallow its pride and at least attempt to figure out just what it is which is causing all this animosity, rather than maintaining its status quo and ignoring the root cause of the problem.
The Obama administration promised to do things differently, and given that this is its first real test with regards to issues of national security, it will be interesting to see whether those words we heard 2 summers ago were just empty promises, or if politics in America has really changed.
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