Monday, 25 May 2009

Amir, Niza and Andorra (of course, we too!)


During the end of May, we received special guests from home, our in laws. It was really great as we seldom have families coming over. Got some news fresh from the source (and gossips too), some dried food but above all the feeling is indescribable.

So, we decided to have some visits regardless my work was unfinished. Come on, a weekend done nothing would not make you stupider..okay.

Andorra is actually near to Barcelona, about 3 hours driving with condition, took the highway through Cadi tunnel. But as adventurous as before, we drove through the mountains, up to altitude 1600meters above sea level which cause Zara to vomit! And who the unlucky person of all? Me, as she was sitting on my lap instead of the chair. (Basically it is compulsory for baby to sit on the chair, but in our case, the chair is merely a decoration to save us from traffic offence. She hates it!)

But once we arrived there... wallah.. It is truly beautiful. Err.. Andorra is actually a skiing heaven, but we went there in spring. Most of the mountain caps were covered with snow, but no way visitors can ski at this particular time. Another attractions of Andorra are the biggest spa in the world and also a free tax country. So those who are aiming for shopping, most prices especially gadgets, branded items and pro bicycle are cheap there. (Us? We were just sight seeing).

I felt that Andorra is like having Cameron Highlands combine with Langkawi. That is the nearest description for those who are thinking of visiting Andorra. Yet, you never know till you set your own foot there. Give it a try!





A building near city centre of Andorra la Vella

A walk through a building towards our hotel

The other side of Andorra city hall

Andorra City Hall

A church nearby

The faces of my love...

The old church

Passage to a mall and recreation area

Look at the location of the town, it is surrounded by real mountains

Amir & Niza, many thanks for visiting us (Location: Plaça España)

Saturday, 23 May 2009

Congratulations!


In May also, our friend, Emmy and Fahmi, officially opened their bar named Warung Bali. So for those who are coming to Barcelona, and looking for place to have Asian gastronomic adventure, Warung Bali is a place to go. My favourite? mmmm , a long list I guess, like gado-gado, lumpio (spring roll), rice with chicken curry, nasi kebuli (savory rice with lamb), fried rice, beef rendang, strawberry smoothies, lemonade (really good one!) and the one that in my opinion, nobody should miss this - bubur pulut hitam (a postre of black glutinous rice). Delicious! Now, this place is a must for out date at least once a month.


The address is Travessera les Corts, 252. Open from Monday to Wednesday, 0800 till 2000, and Thursday to Saturday 0800 till 2330.

We know that my review is not enough. So, Kak Akma, I know you are going to read this too, give comments please (please, please, please). Next time we are there, we will take pictures of the food. I promise.

For Emmy and Fahmi, CONGRATULATIONS and GOOD LUCK!

Sunday, 3 May 2009

Feria: Flor de Maig

Spring is celebrated with smile and full of colours, not only in Germany (Zarina) but also here in Spain. In my town, it is celebrated non stop 24 hr a day for four days starting 1st May till 4th. There are many events, from parade to market, from spring cleaning to fun fair.

After settling down in our new apartment (we moved to a new one, which is my father claimed as not moving at all as it is situated about 200m from the old one), we treated ourself to the fair. It is not big but managed to get the whole town alive for 4 days, with bumper cars, rodeo, catch the duck, shooting rifle, dart throwing and mini casino of slots.

We are kind of glued to the slots, and after some 'investment' we win a big electric paella pan. So much about cooking. But the main goal is achieved, which we enjoyed ourself while my husband still has his thesis pending and I my self have 2 thick articles to absorb for tomorrow lecture. Mmmmm....

Bumper cars

Mediavel bakery

My brand new electric paella pan