For the greatest visual impact, approach the Capitoline Hill from Piazza d'Aracoeli and ascend the cordonata, a stepped ramp also designed by Michelangelo. It is guarded at the bottom by two ancient Egyptian granite lions and at the top by two mammoth statues of Castor and Pollux, which were excavated from the nearby ghetto area in the 16th century.
Wednesday, November 17, 2004
Collosium
The Rome - Colosseum owes its name to a colossal bronze statue, representing the Emperor Nero, more than 35 m. tall, that used to stand in this area. Symbol of Rome worldwide, the Colosseum was built by the emperors of the Flavian dynasty between 72-80 A.D., on the site once occupied by an artificial lake belonging to the magnificent Domus Aurea, a compound of buildings and gardens built by Nero now in ruins but with beautiful decorations which inspired Renaissance painters. This place in the olden days the Romans used to watch the beast Vs beast, beast Vs human, human Vs human. The beasts were brought from Africa and were tamed by making them run in the colosseum. Later these are made to fight. We went for an 2 hours tour there we were explained by all the important aspects of this Colosseum.
Gladiators attacking me at the Colosseum
As many as 100.000 cubic meters of travertine from the Tivoli quarries were used to build this amphitheatre, the largest ever built in Roman empire. The Colosseum could hold more than 70,000 spectators who could watch the fights between gladiators, the hunting of animals and, at the very beginning, the naumachias: naval battles that took place in the arena that was flooded. Can u see me attached by the gladiators.
The architect who designed the Colosseum is said to have been thrown alive to the wild beasts as a reward for his own work, thus inaugurating the long story of blood and cruelties of the building he himself had conceived.
In the Middle Ages the Colosseum was transformed into a fortress.
The architect who designed the Colosseum is said to have been thrown alive to the wild beasts as a reward for his own work, thus inaugurating the long story of blood and cruelties of the building he himself had conceived.
In the Middle Ages the Colosseum was transformed into a fortress.
Colosseum - Now A Sacred site
Later on, stripped of its structures, it became in turn a quarry for building materials and finally the seat of hospitals, fraternities and craft guilds. It was only towards the middle of the 18th century, that Pope Benedict XIV had it decreed "sacred site", and the plunder and devastation was stopped. You can see on the lower right hand corner. Every day some mass are held there
Roman Forum
Forum is the most important archaeological area in Rome, extends from the Capitol Hill to the Palatine. As far back as the 7th century B.C., the Forum was the
centre of political, commercial and religious life. Later on, to the original Roman Forum were added the Imperial Forums: Foro di Cesare, Foro di Augusto, Foro di Nerva, Foro di Vespasiano and the most imposing one, the Foro di Traiano, of which one can still admire the huge Column of the Markets.
centre of political, commercial and religious life. Later on, to the original Roman Forum were added the Imperial Forums: Foro di Cesare, Foro di Augusto, Foro di Nerva, Foro di Vespasiano and the most imposing one, the Foro di Traiano, of which one can still admire the huge Column of the Markets.
Palatine
Palatine hill Rome first became a city on the Palatine Hill on 753 B.C. It later became a place where palaces were built by the many emperors and the rich lived. On the Palatine hill, you will find mostly ruins of palaces and homes of the rich. The Circus Maximus was located next to the Palatine Hill. Stadium Of Domitian on the Palatine Hill. Private hunts, games and fights were held for Domitian in this stadium
Florance
This place was a last minute choice as we wanted to go to Pisa. But I heard from a lot of people that it's a city that not to be missed. True it's a city that should be in not to miss session. The cultural and historical impact of Florence (or Firenze if you're looking to impress) is overwhelming. Close up, however, the city is one of Italy's most atmospheric and pleasant, retaining a strong resemblance to the small late-medieval centre that contributed so much to the cultural and political development of Europe. Our stay was in a youth hostel which is out of the city in a mount. This was for sure a wonderful place there. We walked in the mountain that night and reached that place.
Its striking buildings, formidable galleries and treasure-crammed churches attest to the Florentine love of display. Even long after it had been eclipsed on the political and economic fronts, Florence upheld its elegant appearance: and its skyline, with its russet rooftops and lofty domes, is indeed picturesque.
The glory of Florence is rooted in its past. The Medicis commanded the city's fortunes for centuries and, as patrons, they encouraged the Renaissance's influence on the city. We just roamed in the night and saw a few very very nice places there.
Florance - Duomo
You will probably spot Brunelleschi's sloping, red-tiled dome - predominant on Florence's skyline - from a far but when you first come upon the Duomo (cathedral) from the crowded streets around its square (Piazza del Duomo) you will doubtless be taken aback by the ordered vivacity of its pink, white and green marble facade.
Brunelleschi won a public competition to design the enormous dome, the first of its kind since antiquity. Although now severely cracked and under restoration, it remains a remarkable achievement of design.
The great temple's full name is Cattedrale di Santa Maria del Fiore and it is the world's fourth-largest cathedral. It was begun in 1296 by Arnolfo di Cambio and took almost 150 years to complete. It is 153m long and 38m wide, except the transept, which extends 90m. The cathedral it replaced, dedicated to Santa Reparata, fitted into an area extending less than halfway down from the entrance to the transept.
Florance - Piazza della Signoria
A massive holding tank for tourists (if you want space, bring a bicycle bell), the city's most splendid piazza was created virtually by accident in the 13th century and - lined with replicas of famous sculptures and historical buildings - has been the hub of Florentine political life ever since.
Cellini's Perseus, holding Medusa's severed head, served to warn Cosimo I's enemies of what would happen should they cross the line, and is the finest original work on the piazza. The story about this was told to us by Dalareen. We saw all this in the night. I wonder how this could look in the day.
Its striking buildings, formidable galleries and treasure-crammed churches attest to the Florentine love of display. Even long after it had been eclipsed on the political and economic fronts, Florence upheld its elegant appearance: and its skyline, with its russet rooftops and lofty domes, is indeed picturesque.
The glory of Florence is rooted in its past. The Medicis commanded the city's fortunes for centuries and, as patrons, they encouraged the Renaissance's influence on the city. We just roamed in the night and saw a few very very nice places there.
Florance - Duomo
You will probably spot Brunelleschi's sloping, red-tiled dome - predominant on Florence's skyline - from a far but when you first come upon the Duomo (cathedral) from the crowded streets around its square (Piazza del Duomo) you will doubtless be taken aback by the ordered vivacity of its pink, white and green marble facade.
Brunelleschi won a public competition to design the enormous dome, the first of its kind since antiquity. Although now severely cracked and under restoration, it remains a remarkable achievement of design.
The great temple's full name is Cattedrale di Santa Maria del Fiore and it is the world's fourth-largest cathedral. It was begun in 1296 by Arnolfo di Cambio and took almost 150 years to complete. It is 153m long and 38m wide, except the transept, which extends 90m. The cathedral it replaced, dedicated to Santa Reparata, fitted into an area extending less than halfway down from the entrance to the transept.
Florance - Piazza della Signoria
A massive holding tank for tourists (if you want space, bring a bicycle bell), the city's most splendid piazza was created virtually by accident in the 13th century and - lined with replicas of famous sculptures and historical buildings - has been the hub of Florentine political life ever since.
Cellini's Perseus, holding Medusa's severed head, served to warn Cosimo I's enemies of what would happen should they cross the line, and is the finest original work on the piazza. The story about this was told to us by Dalareen. We saw all this in the night. I wonder how this could look in the day.
The leaning tower of Pisa
The Tower of Pisa is the bell tower of the Cathedral. Its construction began in the August of 1173 and continued (with two long interruptions) for about two hundred years, in full fidelity to the original project, whose architect is still uncertain.
In the past it was widely believed that the inclination of the Tower was part of the project ever since it’s beginning, but now we know that it is not so. The Tower was designed to be "vertical" (and even if it did not lean it would still be one of the most remarkable bell towers in Europe), and started to incline during its construction.
Both because of its inclination, and its beauty, from 1173 up to the present the Tower has been the object of very special attention. During its construction efforts were made to halt the incipient inclination through the use of special construction devices; later columns and other damaged parts were substituted in more than one occasion; today, interventions are being carried out within the sub-soil in order to significantly reduce the inclination and to make sure that Tower will have a long life.
In all, this story it is possible to find a meaningful constant, the "genetic code" of the Tower: its continual interaction with the soil on which it was built. Today's works for the safeguard and the conservation of the Tower with very advanced methodologies are designed to fully respect this constant. They allow only 30 people every half an hour from 10am to 6.30 pm. The climb to the top is an remarkable one. You will automatically feel inclined when you walk up to the top. You get an excellent view from the top. No wonder why it’s considered as a WONDER
In the past it was widely believed that the inclination of the Tower was part of the project ever since it’s beginning, but now we know that it is not so. The Tower was designed to be "vertical" (and even if it did not lean it would still be one of the most remarkable bell towers in Europe), and started to incline during its construction.
Both because of its inclination, and its beauty, from 1173 up to the present the Tower has been the object of very special attention. During its construction efforts were made to halt the incipient inclination through the use of special construction devices; later columns and other damaged parts were substituted in more than one occasion; today, interventions are being carried out within the sub-soil in order to significantly reduce the inclination and to make sure that Tower will have a long life.
In all, this story it is possible to find a meaningful constant, the "genetic code" of the Tower: its continual interaction with the soil on which it was built. Today's works for the safeguard and the conservation of the Tower with very advanced methodologies are designed to fully respect this constant. They allow only 30 people every half an hour from 10am to 6.30 pm. The climb to the top is an remarkable one. You will automatically feel inclined when you walk up to the top. You get an excellent view from the top. No wonder why it’s considered as a WONDER
Venice
Venice is built on 117 small islands and has some 150 canals and 409 bridges (only three of which cross the Grand Canal). The historic centre is divided into six sestieri (quarters): San Marco, Dorsoduro, San Polo, Santa Croce, Cannaregio and Castello. It covers a deceptively small area - if you don't get lost (which you will!), walking from Cannaregio in the northwest to Dorsoduro in the south should take only 30 minutes. The city's 'main street' is the Grand Canal, which passes each of the districts as it twists along the length of Venice from the railway station to San Marco. The day we went there it was raining. The whole evening it was raining and we checked into the youth hostel and were going around. It was great traveling from one island to another by boat, the point worth mentioning is the getting lost in the islands. You can find your way back with the help of the map provided. We went around in the night trying to discover an Indian restaurant and had nice fun getting lost there in the city.
Some 3 bridges out here...
The Photo was taken from the 4th bridge here..Let me mention about Rialto, It has always been the commercial heart of Venice, so it's hardly surprising that the first bridge over the Grand Canal was built here. Today the area is still famous for its bustling fruit & veg market, but because of its central position, the bridge itself is neck-deep in stalls selling tourist souvenirs.
The neo-Gothic arches of the Pescaria are only a hundred years old, but the tradition of selling fresh fish here goes right back to 1300.
The city's oldest church, the Chiesa di San Giacomo di Rialto, is virtually in the middle of the market and was supposedly founded on 25 March 421, the same day as Venice itself.
The neo-Gothic arches of the Pescaria are only a hundred years old, but the tradition of selling fresh fish here goes right back to 1300.
The city's oldest church, the Chiesa di San Giacomo di Rialto, is virtually in the middle of the market and was supposedly founded on 25 March 421, the same day as Venice itself.
St Mark's Basilica
St Mark's is one of the most spectacular houses of worship in the world, attesting to the Venetian Republic's former maritime and commercial might. Adorned with an incredible array of plundered treasures, it is a seething mass of domes and arches. The basilica was modelled on Constantinople's Church of the Twelve Apostles and consecrated in 1094. It is famous for its golden mosaics, particularly those above the doorways in the facade and decorating the interior domes. If you can wrench your eyes away from their glitter, take time to admire the 12th-century marble pavement. U can c Gai , Dal and Simha before the basilica.
St Mark's Square
Napoleon dubbed it the finest drawing room in Europe, and visitors and pigeons alike have been flocking here for centuries to strut and crow. There is a constant carnival atmosphere thanks to the cacophony of duelling cafe orchestras, cooing pigeons, and constant traffic of waiters serving alfresco diners. U can see me flocked by pigeons.
Now that most visitors arrive in Venice via the railway station, the magical symbolism of the waterside Piazzetta San Marco has to a great extent been lost, that's what people say. I tell u it still has the same charm.
Now that most visitors arrive in Venice via the railway station, the magical symbolism of the waterside Piazzetta San Marco has to a great extent been lost, that's what people say. I tell u it still has the same charm.
Venice - St Mark's flooded
The piazzetta's two columns bear emblems of the city's patron saints: the winged lion of St Mark and the figure of St Theodore. St Mark's Square is one of the lowest parts of the city, and so is always the first to be covered in water when the acqua alta (high tide) arrives - a magical sight on a moonlit night.
Wednesday, November 10, 2004
Tuesday, November 09, 2004
Sparkling Diwali Wishes
Wishing you joy and happiness through my blog with this Diwali Wishes.
I wish you of prosperity and well being for your friends/ loved ones.
I was little busy with work and planning for the 4 days vacation to Italy. I'm there in Rome on the day of Diwali. Have a nice vacation.
I wish you of prosperity and well being for your friends/ loved ones.
I was little busy with work and planning for the 4 days vacation to Italy. I'm there in Rome on the day of Diwali. Have a nice vacation.
Tuesday, November 02, 2004
The odd Indian standard time offset
"India's time zones were established in 1884. However at that time there were two standard time zones, Bombay Time and Calcutta Time. The IST came into effect in 1905. However, Bombay still persisted with its own time zone, 39 minutes behind IST, until 1955"
Ah, Bombay, the USA of India. Glad they came around.
Ah, Bombay, the USA of India. Glad they came around.
Monday, November 01, 2004
Paris connection
Let me take u to place I had been so that u can know what these places are and u can also visit these virtually. I have made my best to capture the details here.
Trip to Paris started with a bang, myself, Ramesh, Dalareen & Gayathri went. Narasimha didn’t want to come as he had already visited it, that’s the saddest part as we missed the photographer of the group, it was captured by an budding expert Gayathri. We traveled from Grenoble to Paris in TGV (Train a grand vitesse, meaning High-Speed train). This journey of 650 km was covered in just done in 3 hrs. Check out more info on TGV ICI
After reaching Paris we went to all places mentioned below. First destination was Arc-de-trimph. Then went to Arch de defence and later to museum of the army and invalides. There we met a nice person who is from Pondicherry who is serving the French army. So we managed to get a free ticket for the entry to invalides. He explained beautifully about the museum and about Napoleon. From there we went to the Tower Eiffel and had a splendid view of the Paris from there both in the evening and night. There after the next day we went to Versailles and spent the morning there. From there straight to NotreDame and the evening in Louvre then back to Grenoble
Trip to Paris started with a bang, myself, Ramesh, Dalareen & Gayathri went. Narasimha didn’t want to come as he had already visited it, that’s the saddest part as we missed the photographer of the group, it was captured by an budding expert Gayathri. We traveled from Grenoble to Paris in TGV (Train a grand vitesse, meaning High-Speed train). This journey of 650 km was covered in just done in 3 hrs. Check out more info on TGV ICI
After reaching Paris we went to all places mentioned below. First destination was Arc-de-trimph. Then went to Arch de defence and later to museum of the army and invalides. There we met a nice person who is from Pondicherry who is serving the French army. So we managed to get a free ticket for the entry to invalides. He explained beautifully about the museum and about Napoleon. From there we went to the Tower Eiffel and had a splendid view of the Paris from there both in the evening and night. There after the next day we went to Versailles and spent the morning there. From there straight to NotreDame and the evening in Louvre then back to Grenoble
Louvre
The Louvre began as a fortress in 1190 and later became a royal residence. In 1793, it was transformed into a museum and was recently modernized and expanded. The "Grande Pyramide" designed by I. M. Pei, which actually serves as a skylight to the entrance, is only one of the billion-dollar additions. The Louvre's collection of the world's art spans over 3,000 years.
The best places to visit is the Napolean's appartment. The entire place are divided into 7 departments: Oriental, Egyptian, Greek, Etruscan, Art objects and Graphic Art. In addition to these departments is a section devoted to the history of the Louvre as well as rooms devoted to African, Asian, Oceanic and American art.
The Mona Lisa and Radeau de la Meduse paintings are the Masterpieces, the Victory of Samothrace and Venus de Milo sculptures. Not to miss are the new Richelieu Aisle, the Arc de Triomphe du Carroussel and the Perrault colonade.
The best places to visit is the Napolean's appartment. The entire place are divided into 7 departments: Oriental, Egyptian, Greek, Etruscan, Art objects and Graphic Art. In addition to these departments is a section devoted to the history of the Louvre as well as rooms devoted to African, Asian, Oceanic and American art.
The Mona Lisa and Radeau de la Meduse paintings are the Masterpieces, the Victory of Samothrace and Venus de Milo sculptures. Not to miss are the new Richelieu Aisle, the Arc de Triomphe du Carroussel and the Perrault colonade.
Les Halles
Of a rare architectural harmony, this fashionable area is bordered by private mansions dating from the 16th to the 18th century, quaint passages and medieval streets. Once a marsh filled area, many monks and knights moved here after the 13th century, but it was only at the beginning of the 17th century that it became a centre of elegance and festivities.
Now it is an area composed of beautiful private mansions, now museums or libraries, and elegant buildings set around paved courtyards.
Chatelet and Les Halles are full of life day and night. The square and nearby Place du Chatelet are bordered by cafes, nightclubs and restaurants. The glass-domed Forum des Halles houses a good selection of shops.
The Pompidou Center is famed for its architectural design. To the East lies the busy Place de la Republique which remains lively both day and night, with a good variety of brasseries and restaurants. The narrow rue des Francs-Bourgeois is ideal for window-shopping. There is a wonderful array of home interior shops, designer boutiques and galleries standing alongside elegant Renaissance-style houses.
Now it is an area composed of beautiful private mansions, now museums or libraries, and elegant buildings set around paved courtyards.
Chatelet and Les Halles are full of life day and night. The square and nearby Place du Chatelet are bordered by cafes, nightclubs and restaurants. The glass-domed Forum des Halles houses a good selection of shops.
The Pompidou Center is famed for its architectural design. To the East lies the busy Place de la Republique which remains lively both day and night, with a good variety of brasseries and restaurants. The narrow rue des Francs-Bourgeois is ideal for window-shopping. There is a wonderful array of home interior shops, designer boutiques and galleries standing alongside elegant Renaissance-style houses.
Place Concorde
Between the Champs Elysees and the Tuileries Gardens, there lies the Place de la Concorde. With traffic roaring and careening about seemingly in all directions, it is easy to feel lost in its 84,000 square meters.
Built between 1755 and 1775, many important historical events took place here. Louis XVI, Marie-Antoinette and 1119 other people lost their lives here, among them Charlotte Corday (the murderess of Marat), Danton, Philippe and Robespierre.
In the center of the square is the Obelisk of Luxor, a pink granite monolith 23 m (73 tt) high and weighing 220 tons. It is 3300 years old and decorated with hieroglyphics exalting the reign of the pharaon Ramses II.
The obelisk was presented as a gift to Charles X by the Egyptian viceroy in 1829. The monument was installed here under Louis Philippe who, bearing in mind the death and destruction witnessed by Place de la Concorde, was pleased to have found a non-political monument to replace the unpopular Bourbon Louis the XVth statue. It took three years of travelling from the Nile riverbanks to get the Obelisk to Paris.
This is a nice corner in Paris. The giant wheel at the back ground is the one that inspired the great London eye. This is one of the important things which Paris takes pride of.
Built between 1755 and 1775, many important historical events took place here. Louis XVI, Marie-Antoinette and 1119 other people lost their lives here, among them Charlotte Corday (the murderess of Marat), Danton, Philippe and Robespierre.
In the center of the square is the Obelisk of Luxor, a pink granite monolith 23 m (73 tt) high and weighing 220 tons. It is 3300 years old and decorated with hieroglyphics exalting the reign of the pharaon Ramses II.
The obelisk was presented as a gift to Charles X by the Egyptian viceroy in 1829. The monument was installed here under Louis Philippe who, bearing in mind the death and destruction witnessed by Place de la Concorde, was pleased to have found a non-political monument to replace the unpopular Bourbon Louis the XVth statue. It took three years of travelling from the Nile riverbanks to get the Obelisk to Paris.
This is a nice corner in Paris. The giant wheel at the back ground is the one that inspired the great London eye. This is one of the important things which Paris takes pride of.
Champs Elysees
Eternally popular, the 8th district of Paris has its focal point the Arc de Triomphe. You will find haute couture stores on the avenue Victor Hugo.
The sweep of the Champs Elysees leads down to the Rond Point, intersecting the avenues Montaigne and Matignon, continuing to the Place de la Concorde, with its obelisk from the Temple of Luxor.
The glamour of the Champs-Élysées, triumphal avenue aiming toward the Arc de Triomphe, particularly its upper end is dominated by airline offices, car showrooms, and bright, light shopping arcades. There's the Lido cabaret, Fouquet's high-class bar and restaurant, and plenty of cinemas and outrageously priced cafes to bring the punters in. At Christmas this is where the fairy lights go, and on December 31 everyone happily jams in, in their cars, to hoot in the New Year.
The sweep of the Champs Elysees leads down to the Rond Point, intersecting the avenues Montaigne and Matignon, continuing to the Place de la Concorde, with its obelisk from the Temple of Luxor.
The glamour of the Champs-Élysées, triumphal avenue aiming toward the Arc de Triomphe, particularly its upper end is dominated by airline offices, car showrooms, and bright, light shopping arcades. There's the Lido cabaret, Fouquet's high-class bar and restaurant, and plenty of cinemas and outrageously priced cafes to bring the punters in. At Christmas this is where the fairy lights go, and on December 31 everyone happily jams in, in their cars, to hoot in the New Year.
Pont Alexandre III
Inaugurated for the World Fair of 1900, with its single arch and sculptured decorations, the Pont Alexandre III is the most elegant bridge in Paris.
Versailles
Versailles is an exception to our list, since it is not really a Museum nor it is in Paris. It is, however, the best one day trip you could make while in Paris. Louis XIV built this palace in just 40 years to make it the residence of the court and the capital of France. Its gigantic proportions (the western facade is nearly 2,000 feet wide) and the masterpieces of French artists and craftsmen were used by Louis XIV to showcase the power of the French Monarchy.
The Chateau of Versailles is an architectural splendor Galerie des Glaces (Gallery of Mirrors),the Royal Chapel and the Petit Appartement are the visit to the park are the most important activities to be done. The park is over 200 acres and one full day would not be sufficient to explore it.
The Chateau of Versailles is an architectural splendor Galerie des Glaces (Gallery of Mirrors),the Royal Chapel and the Petit Appartement are the visit to the park are the most important activities to be done. The park is over 200 acres and one full day would not be sufficient to explore it.
Sunday, October 31, 2004
LaDefense
On the Place de la Defense,the "Arche de la Defense" is a skyscraper, a government office tower. All buildings around this are skyscrapers only.
Located in the modern business district, La Defense, a few kilometers west of Paris, the Grande Arche was built by Danish architect Otto van Spreckelsen in 1989 for the 200th anniversary of the 1789 French revolution.
The Grande Arche is white. It is a 106m high cube and has a pre-stressed concrete frame covered with glass and Carrara marble from Italy. Its spectacular architecture was a daring technical achievement when it was designed and built by the Bouygues French engineering company.
From this place you can enjoy a fantastic view of Paris, Arc de Triomphe, the Champs Elysees and the historic axis through the capital and its outskirts. All important places in Paris are through this axis only.
Located in the modern business district, La Defense, a few kilometers west of Paris, the Grande Arche was built by Danish architect Otto van Spreckelsen in 1989 for the 200th anniversary of the 1789 French revolution.
The Grande Arche is white. It is a 106m high cube and has a pre-stressed concrete frame covered with glass and Carrara marble from Italy. Its spectacular architecture was a daring technical achievement when it was designed and built by the Bouygues French engineering company.
From this place you can enjoy a fantastic view of Paris, Arc de Triomphe, the Champs Elysees and the historic axis through the capital and its outskirts. All important places in Paris are through this axis only.
Saturday, October 30, 2004
ArcTriomphe
Commissioned in 1806 by Napoleon, shortly after his victory at Austerlitz, it was not finished until 1836. Engraved around the top of the Arch are the names of major victories won during the Revolutionary and Napoleonic periods. The names of less important victories, as well as those of 558 generals, are to found on the inside walls. Beneath the Arch is the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, and eternal flame commemorating the dead of the two world wars.
Here every Armistice Day (11 November) the President of the Republic lays a wreath. On 14 July - the French National Day - a military parade down the Champs Elysees begins here. The view of the Champs Elysees and all the 12 roads that view..oh my god its breadth talking one..
Here every Armistice Day (11 November) the President of the Republic lays a wreath. On 14 July - the French National Day - a military parade down the Champs Elysees begins here. The view of the Champs Elysees and all the 12 roads that view..oh my god its breadth talking one..
Tour Eiffel - Click here
The Eiffel Tower was built for the International Exhibition of Paris of 1889 commemorating the centenary of the French Revolution. The Prince of Wales, later King Edward VII of England, opened the tower. Of the 700 proposals submitted in a design competition, Gustave Eiffel's was unanimously chosen.
At 300 metres (320.75m including antenna), and 7000 tons, it was the world's tallest building until 1930.
The tower has three platforms. A restaurant (extremely expensive; reservations absolutely necessary), the Jules Verne is on the second platform. The top platform has a bar, souvenir shop, and the office of Gustave Eiffel.
There the wax models are kept in such a way u see them as they are discussing about it.
From its platforms - especially the topmost - the view upon Paris is superb. It is generally agreed that one hour before sunset, the panorama is at its best, and during this visit of mine I was there exactly at that time.
At 300 metres (320.75m including antenna), and 7000 tons, it was the world's tallest building until 1930.
The tower has three platforms. A restaurant (extremely expensive; reservations absolutely necessary), the Jules Verne is on the second platform. The top platform has a bar, souvenir shop, and the office of Gustave Eiffel.
There the wax models are kept in such a way u see them as they are discussing about it.
From its platforms - especially the topmost - the view upon Paris is superb. It is generally agreed that one hour before sunset, the panorama is at its best, and during this visit of mine I was there exactly at that time.
NotreDame
Proceeded by a Gallo-Roman temple to Jupiter, a Christian basilica, and a Romanesque church, construction of Notre-Dame de Paris began in 1163 during the reign of Louis VII. Pope Alexander III laid the foundation stone. Construction was completed roughly 200 years later in about 1345.
In 1991, a 10 year program of general maintenance and restoration has begun, and sections of the structure are likely to be shrouded in scaffolds for the foreseeable future.
During its history, Notre Dame has been the site of numerous official and other ceremonial occasions. In 1430, Henri VI of England is crowned here. The 2nd December 1804, after the anointing by Pius VII, Napoleon seizes the crown from the pontiff and crowns first himself, then Josephine. The 31st May 1980, after the Magnificat of this day, Pope John Paul II celebrates Mass on the parvis in front of the Cathedral.
The most important about this place is, All roads distances in France are calculated from the "zero kilometer", point located on the square in front of Notre-Dame
In 1991, a 10 year program of general maintenance and restoration has begun, and sections of the structure are likely to be shrouded in scaffolds for the foreseeable future.
During its history, Notre Dame has been the site of numerous official and other ceremonial occasions. In 1430, Henri VI of England is crowned here. The 2nd December 1804, after the anointing by Pius VII, Napoleon seizes the crown from the pontiff and crowns first himself, then Josephine. The 31st May 1980, after the Magnificat of this day, Pope John Paul II celebrates Mass on the parvis in front of the Cathedral.
The most important about this place is, All roads distances in France are calculated from the "zero kilometer", point located on the square in front of Notre-Dame
Friday, October 29, 2004
You send it
This is a very nice site to send big files to friends. Here is how it works...
Choose who you want to send a file to. Select a file to send. U r file will be stored by YouSendIt without ever filling up your recipient's mailbox. The file will be there for 7 days.
Happy Storing
Choose who you want to send a file to. Select a file to send. U r file will be stored by YouSendIt without ever filling up your recipient's mailbox. The file will be there for 7 days.
Happy Storing
Thursday, October 28, 2004
the cherry the french left behind
Don't miss out on the second page commencing Father Ceyrac...
I keep wondering why is it so?
I keep wondering why is it so?
Friday, October 22, 2004
Whats all about Algebra...
Teacher Arrested
At Phoenix Sky Harbor airport today, an individual later discovered to be a public school teacher was arrested trying to board a flight while in possession of a ruler, a protractor, a setsquare, a slide rule, and a calculator. At a morning press conference, an FBI spokesperson said he believes the man is a member of the notorious al-gebra movement. He is being charged by the FBI with carrying weapons of math instruction.
"Al-gebra is a fearsome cult," the spokesman said. "They desire average solutions by
means and extremes, and sometimes go off on tangents in a search of absolute value. They use secret code names like 'x' and 'y' and refer to themselves as 'unknowns', but we have determined they belong to a common denominator of the axis of medieval with coordinates in every country. As the Greek philanderer Isosceles used to say, 'There are 3 sides to every triangle'."
When asked to comment on the arrest, one of the arresting officers said, "If God had
wanted us to have better weapons of math instruction, He would have
given us more fingers and toes."
At Phoenix Sky Harbor airport today, an individual later discovered to be a public school teacher was arrested trying to board a flight while in possession of a ruler, a protractor, a setsquare, a slide rule, and a calculator. At a morning press conference, an FBI spokesperson said he believes the man is a member of the notorious al-gebra movement. He is being charged by the FBI with carrying weapons of math instruction.
"Al-gebra is a fearsome cult," the spokesman said. "They desire average solutions by
means and extremes, and sometimes go off on tangents in a search of absolute value. They use secret code names like 'x' and 'y' and refer to themselves as 'unknowns', but we have determined they belong to a common denominator of the axis of medieval with coordinates in every country. As the Greek philanderer Isosceles used to say, 'There are 3 sides to every triangle'."
When asked to comment on the arrest, one of the arresting officers said, "If God had
wanted us to have better weapons of math instruction, He would have
given us more fingers and toes."
Wish you all a Happy Dushhera
Dandiya Dances
Once again it's that time of the year when night turns into day and the city reverberates to the beat of countless drums. It’s Navratri time as we all know. It was Narasimha who met Sanjay and had an invitation to join the Desi group to discuss the plans for one Dandiya night in Grenoble.
But in a land where food, finance and fun have held sway there is a small population of likeminded people who are hell bent on stemming the rot and preserving the cultural heritage. So went of to discuss on what we should be doing for eating on that day during the get together and on for the event. Let me explain how this dance evolved.
Among all the dance forms, Raas Garba is the most well known outside Gujarat and is the most ancient one too. The lasya nritya performed by Krishna approximately 5,000 years ago is still intact. The love of Radha for Krishna has become immortal and the dance performed by Krishna with the gopis was Raas which is the all-time favourite dance style of Gujarat.
Ideally, two circles formed by men and women move in clockwise and anti-clockwise directions with two sticks called dandiyas held in their hands. The song sung on the occasion is essentially an amorous one. Raas is a very energetic, colourful and playful dance providing opportunity for acting and exchanging messages through eye contact. It is no wonder that many romances bloom during Navratri and hence the popularity of the dance among the younger generation. I’m missing this fun in Grenoble and going to Paris. We had just been to the practice session last Sunday. I wish the function a grand success.
Monday, October 18, 2004
Chamarousse
This forest plateau located at 1500 meters on the Belledonne range offers beautiful tracks for either classic or skating cross country skiing. You can discover the beauty of the mountains in two ways --> Thanks to snowshoe tracks and also 40 kilometers of cross country skiing tracks are maintained and made safe on the plateau de l'Arselle. We took the snowshoe track with the travel from Grenoble by car to the family skiing Roche Béranger at Chamrousse 1750. So we went there and played a while in the snow. That’s how the Saturday came to and end.
The photos are uploaded here
Thursday, October 14, 2004
Facility to retain one mobile number across operator in Pakistan launched
The Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) has decided to introduce mobile number portability (MNP) to enable cellular mobile subscribers to retain their mobile phone numbers when they change mobile operators.
An official of PTA said that the introduction of this facility would foster effective competition and establish competitive telecom regime with multiple players offering innovative, high quality and cost-effective services to the consumers.
"This service will also strengthen competition by lowering the barriers for customers who wish to change operators," the official said.
The facility would also enable the mobile users to keep their contacts intact even after they change the operator.
The cellular mobile operators (CMT) would be asked to implement the Mobile Number Portability (MNP) from the first week of May 2005. In order to implement this policy, PTA is planning to prepare a consultation paper to suggest the best technical solutions for its implementation.
A draft policy will be formulated and issued after detailed study and seeking comments from the stakeholders especially on technical, administrative and financial solutions, by the end of January 2005.
The PTA has asked the specialists on the subject that they may convey their views and suggest appropriate solutions.
Are people in India hearing this….This for sure shows the positive side of Pakistan
An official of PTA said that the introduction of this facility would foster effective competition and establish competitive telecom regime with multiple players offering innovative, high quality and cost-effective services to the consumers.
"This service will also strengthen competition by lowering the barriers for customers who wish to change operators," the official said.
The facility would also enable the mobile users to keep their contacts intact even after they change the operator.
The cellular mobile operators (CMT) would be asked to implement the Mobile Number Portability (MNP) from the first week of May 2005. In order to implement this policy, PTA is planning to prepare a consultation paper to suggest the best technical solutions for its implementation.
A draft policy will be formulated and issued after detailed study and seeking comments from the stakeholders especially on technical, administrative and financial solutions, by the end of January 2005.
The PTA has asked the specialists on the subject that they may convey their views and suggest appropriate solutions.
Are people in India hearing this….This for sure shows the positive side of Pakistan
Wednesday, October 13, 2004
Points to ponder
Gradual improvement is inevitable for Success, so here goes the words of Bollywood icon Rajkapoor, A performer is termed to be successful only when he is successful in breaking his own record. If he fails in giving better product than the previous one, people corner him saying his time is over. So the gradual improvement is inevitable to continue the success graph.
Let me give u some Corporate Management Tip
When there's nobody around, you must to get approval from superiors to do any task. But when the superiors are around, you need to take initiative and do stuff pro-actively, without waiting for approval.
So don't blame me next time.... :-)
Let me give u some Corporate Management Tip
When there's nobody around, you must to get approval from superiors to do any task. But when the superiors are around, you need to take initiative and do stuff pro-actively, without waiting for approval.
So don't blame me next time.... :-)
This secret was bound to be leaked at some point
Uh-oh. This secret was bound to be leaked at some point.
The authors of the new book "Crap Jobs" took an unscientific email survey
among people in the United Kingdom, asking them to list what they thought
were the worst jobs in their homeland. And, as one might imagine, the
Brits came through with some rather candid responses.
When all the ballots were counted, there it was for all to see: Listed
just below phone sex operator (No. 1) and ferry cabin cleaner (No. 2), was
being an IT manager (No. 3). No surprise to you, right?
The poll also placed database builder at No. 14 on the list of bad jobs
(just behind landfill executive); Internet consultant came in at No. 72,
just behind maggot farmer. It wasn't immediately clear if the results
reflect the perceived difficulty of a job in IT, or whether they simply
indicate a lack of respect for technology.
The authors of the new book "Crap Jobs" took an unscientific email survey
among people in the United Kingdom, asking them to list what they thought
were the worst jobs in their homeland. And, as one might imagine, the
Brits came through with some rather candid responses.
When all the ballots were counted, there it was for all to see: Listed
just below phone sex operator (No. 1) and ferry cabin cleaner (No. 2), was
being an IT manager (No. 3). No surprise to you, right?
The poll also placed database builder at No. 14 on the list of bad jobs
(just behind landfill executive); Internet consultant came in at No. 72,
just behind maggot farmer. It wasn't immediately clear if the results
reflect the perceived difficulty of a job in IT, or whether they simply
indicate a lack of respect for technology.
Monday, October 11, 2004
Chambery'ille Chennai vasigal (Lot of people are from chennai who came to this trip)
The last weekend trip started with Venkat & Vijay coming to Grenoble on Friday night. We all had a nice food for the night and then planned for the next days. The next day in the morning Narasimha, Gayathri and Dalareen joined us and we had Rava masala dosa with Sambar and lemon rice. After that we started to Chambery by train from Grenoble, without Dalareen as she was sick. Dalareen we missed u a lot on this trip. We reached there in the late afternoon. The origins of the town of Chambéry are to be found in the Roman history. Chambéry plays an important part in the history of Western Europe in their capacity as "doorkeepers of the Alps", and made the name of Savoie famous all over Europe. After the French Revolution period of large-scale urban works gave the town most of its contemporary look. A new page was turned for Chambéry in 1860 when Savoie was reunited to France following the treaty of Turin of March 24, 1860
Chambéry then became a mere county town, nevertheless retaining from its glorious past a natural pride, a few institutions, strong juridical and commercial traditions, a picturesque center with narrow streets and alleys, and rich mansions below the ducal castle...
Until the end of WW II, the town hadn't changed much, but in May 1944, an air raid destroyed one-third of the historic center. The reconstruction that followed gave the town a new appearance, and low-cost housing developments were built in the suburbs.
Today the town intends to take the best advantage of its history, traditions, and firm commitment to culture to assert its role as Alpine heartland of Europe.
Chambéry is situated between the Bauges massif and the Chartreuse mountain range, in the cluse that bears its name. To the south the town stretches out to the vineyards on the hillsides of the Combe of Savoie ; to the north it almost reaches the shores of Lake Bourget — France's largest natural lake. This is the biggest lake that covers Aix-Les-Ban & Annecy. I think I need to post on those visits also …let me do that soon.
We came out of the Gares (Railway station) and saw the Velo Station (cycle stand in our local bashai) . Then we went Inside and hired the cycles. We had to pay a deposit of 1500 Euros, but finally managed to pay Euros 1000. Then after with the map we asked him what is the best place to go around.. he suggested that Lake Bourget which would be like 1 hour drive from that place. It was like already 3.30 in the afternoon and we had to return the cycle back 7.00, So after the initial adjustment we decide to go on the way suggested. We went in the opposite direction. When we started reading all the places which are supposed to come in the right was coming in the left and places which are supposed to on the left are on the right…then the best things struck our mind 2 option ..one either we turn the map or we better turn..the first one was best. After this we started taking pictures of all the nice landscape and this delayed our journey further. On the way we discovered that this lake is out of Chambery. So we left the city roads and then joined the Main roads.. It was nice traveling in the cycles in the Auto Bhan (these are highways) .. all the cars were going in slow speed because of us. After some nice spaghetti turns we landed on the other side of the roads and joined the beautiful corner. This is where all begun. I have loaded the movie of the path we took. Kindly have look at that also. Then we went cycling all the way blocking the road where ever we felt like..I know those people would have been cursing us. After a long drive with 2-3 halts we reached the lake. Oh what a sight. The best thing about the entire trip was the weather. This really helped us to keep going. After reaching there all the effort are paid. We had an excellent view of the place and that reminded again about the “Shabari malai”. After this we had to rush back ‘cause we had to return the cycle. On the way we stopped, u know why. We saw a APPLE tree. Vijay was the one who spotted this and we all came back. Like Manga adichifying we did Apple adichifying and enjoyed the apples. This is a first time for a few who saw the apple tree. It was a green apple tree…and we did what best could be done there and then no stopping on way back. After we retuned the cycle we went in search of Quick or Mac D. Most of the old town is now a pedestrian area, so it is a pleasant place to stroll around and visit. So we went on and finally stopped in Monoprix. Grabbed a few chips and croissants and finished the dinner and came back.
We planned to go Alps-de-heuz, but the weather god wanted us to take some rest.
That’s the way the weekend came to an end.
Chambéry then became a mere county town, nevertheless retaining from its glorious past a natural pride, a few institutions, strong juridical and commercial traditions, a picturesque center with narrow streets and alleys, and rich mansions below the ducal castle...
Until the end of WW II, the town hadn't changed much, but in May 1944, an air raid destroyed one-third of the historic center. The reconstruction that followed gave the town a new appearance, and low-cost housing developments were built in the suburbs.
Today the town intends to take the best advantage of its history, traditions, and firm commitment to culture to assert its role as Alpine heartland of Europe.
Chambéry is situated between the Bauges massif and the Chartreuse mountain range, in the cluse that bears its name. To the south the town stretches out to the vineyards on the hillsides of the Combe of Savoie ; to the north it almost reaches the shores of Lake Bourget — France's largest natural lake. This is the biggest lake that covers Aix-Les-Ban & Annecy. I think I need to post on those visits also …let me do that soon.
We came out of the Gares (Railway station) and saw the Velo Station (cycle stand in our local bashai) . Then we went Inside and hired the cycles. We had to pay a deposit of 1500 Euros, but finally managed to pay Euros 1000. Then after with the map we asked him what is the best place to go around.. he suggested that Lake Bourget which would be like 1 hour drive from that place. It was like already 3.30 in the afternoon and we had to return the cycle back 7.00, So after the initial adjustment we decide to go on the way suggested. We went in the opposite direction. When we started reading all the places which are supposed to come in the right was coming in the left and places which are supposed to on the left are on the right…then the best things struck our mind 2 option ..one either we turn the map or we better turn..the first one was best. After this we started taking pictures of all the nice landscape and this delayed our journey further. On the way we discovered that this lake is out of Chambery. So we left the city roads and then joined the Main roads.. It was nice traveling in the cycles in the Auto Bhan (these are highways) .. all the cars were going in slow speed because of us. After some nice spaghetti turns we landed on the other side of the roads and joined the beautiful corner. This is where all begun. I have loaded the movie of the path we took. Kindly have look at that also. Then we went cycling all the way blocking the road where ever we felt like..I know those people would have been cursing us. After a long drive with 2-3 halts we reached the lake. Oh what a sight. The best thing about the entire trip was the weather. This really helped us to keep going. After reaching there all the effort are paid. We had an excellent view of the place and that reminded again about the “Shabari malai”. After this we had to rush back ‘cause we had to return the cycle. On the way we stopped, u know why. We saw a APPLE tree. Vijay was the one who spotted this and we all came back. Like Manga adichifying we did Apple adichifying and enjoyed the apples. This is a first time for a few who saw the apple tree. It was a green apple tree…and we did what best could be done there and then no stopping on way back. After we retuned the cycle we went in search of Quick or Mac D. Most of the old town is now a pedestrian area, so it is a pleasant place to stroll around and visit. So we went on and finally stopped in Monoprix. Grabbed a few chips and croissants and finished the dinner and came back.
We planned to go Alps-de-heuz, but the weather god wanted us to take some rest.
That’s the way the weekend came to an end.
Wednesday, October 06, 2004
WHO DOES WHAT
A very nice one...I had a hearty laugh
A man and his wife were having an argument about who should brew the coffee each morning.
The wife said, "You should do it, because you get up first, and then we don't have to
wait as long to get our coffee." The husband said, "You are in charge of cooking around
here and you should do it, because that is your job, and I can just wait for my coffee."
Wife replies, "No, you should do it, and besides, it is in the Bible that the man should
do the coffee." Husband replies, "I can't believe that, show me." So she fetched the
Bible, and opened the New Testament and showed him at the top of several pages, that it
indeed says..........
"HEBREWS"
A man and his wife were having an argument about who should brew the coffee each morning.
The wife said, "You should do it, because you get up first, and then we don't have to
wait as long to get our coffee." The husband said, "You are in charge of cooking around
here and you should do it, because that is your job, and I can just wait for my coffee."
Wife replies, "No, you should do it, and besides, it is in the Bible that the man should
do the coffee." Husband replies, "I can't believe that, show me." So she fetched the
Bible, and opened the New Testament and showed him at the top of several pages, that it
indeed says..........
"HEBREWS"
Annecy
Annecy trip details...
Let me start with this old update on Annecy trip, and then I will go on back and share all other weekends later on the trips to Aix-Les-Bains and my second trip to Chamonix and on the Secessaney ones.
It was in the month of August, We had a crowd of around 50000 people in Annecy. This is the first time I have ever seen a crowd in this place, No I saw a bigger one when I was in France on 1-May-2002 Oh that as the election time and the same coupled with the May day celebration …my god I can’t imagine what it was like.
Ok now the festival of the lake d'annecy is the major traditional event of the festival season which takes place each year first Saturday of August. During the evening, while the sun laying down, tens of thousands of spectators gathered on Pâquier, vis-a-vis with the lake to attend a gigantic spectacle "Pyromelodic" which mixes during more 1h30 without interruption the fireworks, the music and the text, the lights and the lasers. It’s a event to watch. We just drove to Annecy that evening. We took a pedaling boat and went across the lake. We just go the ticket to watch it from a long distance. Then we went to the place designated for us to watch the firework and other laser shows etc.
The magic of water, the music and pyrotechny make Festival of the Lake each summer a famous event: many tickets of entry are sold by advance (platforms and lawns) while 150 000 people attend the event since banks of the lake, surrounding mountains or hundreds of boats gathered behind the zone of shooting of the fireworks.
Organized by Annecy Events, it is held each year according to a different topic ("Songs of Europe" in 2003, "film Musics" in 2004). This year very nice movie numbers are played. The best thing is the fire works are designed to be in sink with the music. The origin of the festival of the lake d'Annecy date of 1860, from the 28 to August 31 of this year, Emperor Napoleon III and l'empress Eugenie are the hosts in Annecy at the time of the festivities for the fastening of Savoy in France. To honor of their majesties, the city organizes a festival of lake night which marks the origin of traditional “Fête of the Lake”. Average the techniques deployed are enormous: lt’s the space of the spectacle: 700 meters points of shooting of the fireworks: 4 large punt forms of 250 m2 each one, 21 punt forms of 25 m2, 20 mobile rafts of shooting. This device ensures a perfect vision of the spectacle for all the spectators. An approximate number of projectiles:2305 candles, 16 500 bombs, 750 pots with fire a number of points of wiring for sound: 14 autonomous electric output: 1250 kcVa including 450 helped (emergency lighting of the site and wiring for sound).
I was just sitting on the banks with my legs dripping in the water, and after a while moved to a boat there and started lying down and having an aerial view. This event I will never forget in life.
The pictures captured during the visit are stored here.
Let me start with this old update on Annecy trip, and then I will go on back and share all other weekends later on the trips to Aix-Les-Bains and my second trip to Chamonix and on the Secessaney ones.
It was in the month of August, We had a crowd of around 50000 people in Annecy. This is the first time I have ever seen a crowd in this place, No I saw a bigger one when I was in France on 1-May-2002 Oh that as the election time and the same coupled with the May day celebration …my god I can’t imagine what it was like.
Ok now the festival of the lake d'annecy is the major traditional event of the festival season which takes place each year first Saturday of August. During the evening, while the sun laying down, tens of thousands of spectators gathered on Pâquier, vis-a-vis with the lake to attend a gigantic spectacle "Pyromelodic" which mixes during more 1h30 without interruption the fireworks, the music and the text, the lights and the lasers. It’s a event to watch. We just drove to Annecy that evening. We took a pedaling boat and went across the lake. We just go the ticket to watch it from a long distance. Then we went to the place designated for us to watch the firework and other laser shows etc.
The magic of water, the music and pyrotechny make Festival of the Lake each summer a famous event: many tickets of entry are sold by advance (platforms and lawns) while 150 000 people attend the event since banks of the lake, surrounding mountains or hundreds of boats gathered behind the zone of shooting of the fireworks.
Organized by Annecy Events, it is held each year according to a different topic ("Songs of Europe" in 2003, "film Musics" in 2004). This year very nice movie numbers are played. The best thing is the fire works are designed to be in sink with the music. The origin of the festival of the lake d'Annecy date of 1860, from the 28 to August 31 of this year, Emperor Napoleon III and l'empress Eugenie are the hosts in Annecy at the time of the festivities for the fastening of Savoy in France. To honor of their majesties, the city organizes a festival of lake night which marks the origin of traditional “Fête of the Lake”. Average the techniques deployed are enormous: lt’s the space of the spectacle: 700 meters points of shooting of the fireworks: 4 large punt forms of 250 m2 each one, 21 punt forms of 25 m2, 20 mobile rafts of shooting. This device ensures a perfect vision of the spectacle for all the spectators. An approximate number of projectiles:2305 candles, 16 500 bombs, 750 pots with fire a number of points of wiring for sound: 14 autonomous electric output: 1250 kcVa including 450 helped (emergency lighting of the site and wiring for sound).
I was just sitting on the banks with my legs dripping in the water, and after a while moved to a boat there and started lying down and having an aerial view. This event I will never forget in life.
The pictures captured during the visit are stored here.
Tuesday, October 05, 2004
La Grave- La Meije
On Friday evening I went and meet Narashima to ping him to know about week-end plan. I was staying late from office as there was some activities to be completed before the week comes to an end.
Then we got to know we could go to this place called Le Grave. On Saturday we had nice food at home and went to the railway station to enquire as to how to reach La Grave. We got to hear that we should be able to reach there by bus. So the next day we where all set to go there.
As soon as we landed there we discovered that this place is a unique resort offering wilderness skiing and breath-taking slopes.
La Grave - La Meije is one of the world’s great skiing places and one you just cannot miss. For years, the sheer beauty of the place, the quality of the snow and the off-piste ski area have attracted people in the know from all over the world. We didn’t go there to Ski …we just wanted to see the glacier. We where banking on the La Meije Glaciers Aerial Tramway (Téléphérique) provides the sole access to this high altitude glacial terrain, and carries passengers to the Ruillans Pass at 3200 meters in 30 minutes. But we got the information that its close in autumn.
So we just went around and got the information as to how to go there. To our surprise we came to know it would take some good 3-4 hrs by walk to reach to the peak to see the glazier.
So a walk in the town reveals here you won't find any wooden chalets. The rarity of wood as well as some spectacular fires in the past centuries have discouraged the local population from building with wood. Traditional architecture in the La Meije area is exclusively stone.
Blocks of tuff (a volcanic rock) or shale are sealed together with an earth-based mortar. Rooftops are two-sided and covered with slate or flagstones, here again for fire protection. Houses are built on the natural rock foundation and set into the hillside in a cascading terrace formation. Numerous traditional passageways called "trabuc" link the houses together to create a tight network that visitors often lose themselves in.
Here there are no luxury accommodations. Its not a huge holiday centers. No ugly clusters of lift structures invading the landscape, only the La Meije Glaciers Aerial Tramway and a few drag lifts. No shopping center, just a few traditional shops.
The La Meije community does not experience the huge tourist invasions common to conventional resorts, and the population varies only slightly throughout the year. There are just over 600 inhabitants, made up of both locals and former French and foreign vacationers who fell in love with the site and settled there permanently. Although the La Meije area draws its resources today mainly from tourism, it has never sold its soul, and proudly preserves its authenticity.
So we just started our trek at around 11.30 am and reach the 1840 meters by 1.30pm. U can find a picture of mine taken there. So we just spent a little time there and decided to come down. On the way in the near some place where there was a lot of Blocks of tuff we sat there and had our lunch. There after once we where about to reach the village we took a break near the place and enjoyed playing in the cold water. Missed taking picture in both the places.
The best thing of the entire trip was we were listening to the some devotional songs while we were going in the bus. Oh what a combination…In the Alps with the songs ..it was a very nice thing. As we got down we forgot to collect the cassettes. Narasmiha was saying if we are destined to get it we will get it. So on the way back we got into the same bus and the cassettes were there. It was really a lucky trip.
Check for the picture here
Friday, October 01, 2004
Swiss entry
After so many trips to Europe my dream of going to Switzerland has come true. The thing I saw there was the private banks. That's really a big story..the first train from my place leaves at 6.05 am ... I had a discount ticket which would get me 50% for weekends...But to my dismay I had to buy the ticket from the counter...which open only at 6..Finally managed to get the ticket at 6.02 and rushed to the platform. So with this first tension was over...later we got into the train and left for Swiss...
When the train reached the platform at Swiss we had to go through the immigration..nothing big.. but it gives the same feeling like when ever u enter some other country how the inspection is done...So similar setup was there... both the countries office was there in the same building ..first clear the French one and then next is the Swiss one...after doing so ..then u r allowed to enter the country...
Geneva is Switzerland's third-largest city, but surely the most international: a third of the population is from elsewhere. The city is crowded with museums, has a rich cultural calendar, lot of activities, a plethora of mouth-watering cuisines, Mac D is one best things with veg burger available there along with Onion rings from Burger king.. and is ideally placed for excursions into the Swiss and French Alps.
Basking in the sunshine of its peaceful setting on Lake Geneva's banks, this acclaimed neutral territory displays an obvious self-confidence.
First thing we need to money Swiss franks ...I didn't have Swiss francs..so we had to wait in the station and get the change...
After that when we went to tourist office we discovered that it is close for sunday. So went into an hotel and got a map..What an idea ??? Venkat logic Venkat login Kalaku..I'm patting on my back
And then after we went into Mac D and wanted to have the veg burger...its a things which u will never get in France..So got hold on one and had my bite...later went to another tourist office and even that was closed but there we could c a detailed map and a Geneva guide was kept there...
Got hold of one guide and then we discovered that we could get free cycle there in the town...Went to the office and deposited some security money and then took the cycle and moved to all around the city. Its a seven gear cycle..with 3 mode what not in that cycle.
The first thing is the big park we went to and there we saw the Chess board drawn on the floor with big coins...there played a quick game of chess and then moved to the heart of Geneva..The first one we saw first the Water jet...that's the main attraction of this city...
The iconic Jet d'Eau, the world's tallest fountain, shoots water into the air with incredible force (200kmh/124mph and 1360 horsepower) to create a 140m (469ft) plume. At any one time seven tonnes of water is in the air and much of it can fall on spectators on the pier. The Jet is shut off during gusty weather.
Then we just went on the cycle and covered the entire northern part of the lake-side...and then after...we went into the old town...this had lot of nice places like a swiss corner..this is one of the oldest joint in Europe, it seems..and then after that visited some church and then another garden...soon it became afternoon and then we went and visited the UN office / WTO office and other places. The Broken chair reminds one about the people who are not willing to sign the treaty for banning land mines.
Then again to the northern side of the lake...we just took the cycle and where just driving thru that...
After all this tiring trip in the evening went to Burger king and had onion rings...Burger king is another place which u will not find in France..
Its really strange that u don't get onion rings and Veg. burger in France...Why so..
I eat good food man..I will have to write on that little later..
Then way back to France again u will have to come through the customs and immigration ....Even for the french people..All u need to do is just show u r identity..that all...nothing big this time unlike the one which is a detailed one when u enter..back to France
Wanna have a go around Geneva … Click here
When the train reached the platform at Swiss we had to go through the immigration..nothing big.. but it gives the same feeling like when ever u enter some other country how the inspection is done...So similar setup was there... both the countries office was there in the same building ..first clear the French one and then next is the Swiss one...after doing so ..then u r allowed to enter the country...
Geneva is Switzerland's third-largest city, but surely the most international: a third of the population is from elsewhere. The city is crowded with museums, has a rich cultural calendar, lot of activities, a plethora of mouth-watering cuisines, Mac D is one best things with veg burger available there along with Onion rings from Burger king.. and is ideally placed for excursions into the Swiss and French Alps.
Basking in the sunshine of its peaceful setting on Lake Geneva's banks, this acclaimed neutral territory displays an obvious self-confidence.
First thing we need to money Swiss franks ...I didn't have Swiss francs..so we had to wait in the station and get the change...
After that when we went to tourist office we discovered that it is close for sunday. So went into an hotel and got a map..What an idea ??? Venkat logic Venkat login Kalaku..I'm patting on my back
And then after we went into Mac D and wanted to have the veg burger...its a things which u will never get in France..So got hold on one and had my bite...later went to another tourist office and even that was closed but there we could c a detailed map and a Geneva guide was kept there...
Got hold of one guide and then we discovered that we could get free cycle there in the town...Went to the office and deposited some security money and then took the cycle and moved to all around the city. Its a seven gear cycle..with 3 mode what not in that cycle.
The first thing is the big park we went to and there we saw the Chess board drawn on the floor with big coins...there played a quick game of chess and then moved to the heart of Geneva..The first one we saw first the Water jet...that's the main attraction of this city...
The iconic Jet d'Eau, the world's tallest fountain, shoots water into the air with incredible force (200kmh/124mph and 1360 horsepower) to create a 140m (469ft) plume. At any one time seven tonnes of water is in the air and much of it can fall on spectators on the pier. The Jet is shut off during gusty weather.
Then we just went on the cycle and covered the entire northern part of the lake-side...and then after...we went into the old town...this had lot of nice places like a swiss corner..this is one of the oldest joint in Europe, it seems..and then after that visited some church and then another garden...soon it became afternoon and then we went and visited the UN office / WTO office and other places. The Broken chair reminds one about the people who are not willing to sign the treaty for banning land mines.
Then again to the northern side of the lake...we just took the cycle and where just driving thru that...
After all this tiring trip in the evening went to Burger king and had onion rings...Burger king is another place which u will not find in France..
Its really strange that u don't get onion rings and Veg. burger in France...Why so..
I eat good food man..I will have to write on that little later..
Then way back to France again u will have to come through the customs and immigration ....Even for the french people..All u need to do is just show u r identity..that all...nothing big this time unlike the one which is a detailed one when u enter..back to France
Wanna have a go around Geneva … Click here
Thursday, September 30, 2004
Your Caller ID feature may no longer be telling the truth
This week, a company is launching technology that will make it possible for someone to choose what appears on phones that have Caller ID, the feature for displaying identifying information about an incoming call.
It could be a different phone number, or even a few words, said Jason Jepson, founder of Star38, which has developed the commercial Caller ID spoofing service.
Sales of Star38 will be limited to licensed private investigators and collection agencies, Jepson said. The service will cost $20 a month plus airtime charges.
The technique for replacing the usual bits of identifying information, such as phone number and name, that accompany inbound calls was discovered a few years ago by hackers. Privacy advocates fear that in the wrong hands, commercial services have the potential to be abused. For instance, telemarketers could use technologies similar to Star38's to trick people into answering a call that looks like a familiar phone number.
Star38 aims to overcome the stigma created by earlier pranksters and thieves.
"Unfortunately, what's happened is some hackers have got to it first and gave it a bad name," Jepson said. "If they step back and see the forest through the trees, they'd realize what they are doing is hard and illegal. What we are doing is neither."
The company plans to explore other markets as well. For example, Jepson said he's begun talks with Musicphone, a San Francisco-based service that lets people send songs, along with personalized messages, to any kind of phone--cellular or standard.
Musicphone wants to use Star38's software to send even more information about certain artists, he said. A Musicphone representative could not immediately be reached for comment.
It could be a different phone number, or even a few words, said Jason Jepson, founder of Star38, which has developed the commercial Caller ID spoofing service.
Sales of Star38 will be limited to licensed private investigators and collection agencies, Jepson said. The service will cost $20 a month plus airtime charges.
The technique for replacing the usual bits of identifying information, such as phone number and name, that accompany inbound calls was discovered a few years ago by hackers. Privacy advocates fear that in the wrong hands, commercial services have the potential to be abused. For instance, telemarketers could use technologies similar to Star38's to trick people into answering a call that looks like a familiar phone number.
Star38 aims to overcome the stigma created by earlier pranksters and thieves.
"Unfortunately, what's happened is some hackers have got to it first and gave it a bad name," Jepson said. "If they step back and see the forest through the trees, they'd realize what they are doing is hard and illegal. What we are doing is neither."
The company plans to explore other markets as well. For example, Jepson said he's begun talks with Musicphone, a San Francisco-based service that lets people send songs, along with personalized messages, to any kind of phone--cellular or standard.
Musicphone wants to use Star38's software to send even more information about certain artists, he said. A Musicphone representative could not immediately be reached for comment.
Wednesday, September 29, 2004
Lyon Lelaigal
I had a wonderful weekend…after a long time. On Friday night left for Lyon from Grenoble and stayed there for the night ..night life there is too good...I was just walking in the city till 2 am on Saturday
The surprising and perhaps fortunate fact about Lyon as a travel destination is that it's still relatively undiscovered -- the stunning city center remains a hidden treasure. Although the city's vitality is perceptible in ancient streets with restored buildings, there are still many pockets of the city where renewal has yet to penetrate. These backstreets and courtyards may seem daunting, but the history embodied in so many of them makes even the narrowest of crooked staircases fascinating.
Later the next morning I was joined by three more people from HP India...
Then we all went around and enjoyed the city…there is a old town...an amphitheater and an old church...a very old one..
No wonder why the city is declared as heritage site by UNESCO ...
Lyon enjoys a reputation as France's culinary capital, but the city is also known for its luminosity. Buildings and fountains are beautifully lit at night, creating a magical atmosphere. Cross the River Saone by one of its passerelle bridges on a summer evening at sunset, and you'll see the city glow with a hazy, burnt-orange light.
Some nice pictures can be view from ICI , French word for here.
Then came back to Grenoble on Saturday night and then on Sunday morning to Geneva ..
The surprising and perhaps fortunate fact about Lyon as a travel destination is that it's still relatively undiscovered -- the stunning city center remains a hidden treasure. Although the city's vitality is perceptible in ancient streets with restored buildings, there are still many pockets of the city where renewal has yet to penetrate. These backstreets and courtyards may seem daunting, but the history embodied in so many of them makes even the narrowest of crooked staircases fascinating.
Later the next morning I was joined by three more people from HP India...
Then we all went around and enjoyed the city…there is a old town...an amphitheater and an old church...a very old one..
No wonder why the city is declared as heritage site by UNESCO ...
Lyon enjoys a reputation as France's culinary capital, but the city is also known for its luminosity. Buildings and fountains are beautifully lit at night, creating a magical atmosphere. Cross the River Saone by one of its passerelle bridges on a summer evening at sunset, and you'll see the city glow with a hazy, burnt-orange light.
Some nice pictures can be view from ICI , French word for here.
Then came back to Grenoble on Saturday night and then on Sunday morning to Geneva ..
Grenoble’ille Ganesh
I was just praying to God as I wanted to celebrate Ganesh Pooja in a big way. As a sign of “get lucky” I met Saravanan, not Lord’s Ganesh brother, a student who is working in HP, doing his intern. I met him in “Namastey restaurant”. I went there with a few people from India who have come here on business trip, for dinner. Then he invited me for the next day pooja. Oh what a way to celebrate. U can make out this from the Picture itself.
Monday, September 27, 2004
Wednesday, August 11, 2004
Hailstones hit me
Yesterday we had a hailstorm here in Grenoble. I have seen these earlier once when I has a child in India and a few when I was in Germany. But this was very different one, The hailstones was up to the size of big grape fruit, like the one genetically modified.
I was traveling in the tram to reach home. I have to change tram to reach to my house, I was exactly caught while doing so. So I had to wait there for things to get settle down and then continued my way home.
Wednesday, August 04, 2004
Once again after a long break
I must admit that its been a long gap since I had given an update on the site….. OK here I go…
I came back to France on 7th July and from then on having a tough time. I had to get my resident permit for that I need a address proof, for that I need a house, for that I need a bank account, for that I need a residence proof and it goes on like this.
After all the difficulties I managed to open a bank account and was very happy to discover that I managed to get a house the way I liked it and way I wanted to make the payment for the rent/electricity and all other amenities. In a way I was very lucky to get such a house. But ill luck is there always… The worst part of it is yet to begun.. We are a group of 3 families came from India, the other two are married and have kids. I’m only bachelor fellow. They both got the house and insured and all went on well. I was also following on the same steps. Here I have my surprise. The agreement for the house was taken on my company and the Insurance was on my name. The housing agency did not want to issue the key for me as the insurance was not meeting the required standards. Then I had to run here and there and try to ask for my bank to change the name. It they its not possible. Then I had to cancel this insurance and then move to another company who would give me the way I wanted the insurance.
And now I have moved into my house. More later with on the updates weekend travels I had made so far soon. In the mean time enjoy some flicks from Venkat
This one is too Kadi.Get set to Check ur IQ.
Q. What is more difficult than getting an elephant in a car?
A.Getting 2 elephants in a car!!
Q.What is more difficult than getting 2 elephants in a car?(Don't raise the number.) A.Getting 2 pregnant elephants in a car!!!
Q.What is more difficult than getting 2 pregnant elephants in a car? (Don't use another adjective for elephant).
A.Getting 2 pregnant elephants on a scooter!!
Q.What is more difficult than getting 2 pregnant elephants on a scooter? (Don't change the vehicle or animal).
A. Getting 2 pregnant elephants on a moving scooter!!!
Q.What is more difficult than getting 2 pregnant elephants on a moving scooter? (Don't use another adjective for scooter).
A.Getting 2 pregnant elephants on a moving scooter,up the hill !!
Q.What is more difficult than getting 2 pregnant elephants on a moving scooter,up the hill? A.Getting 2 pregnant elephants on a moving scooter,up the hill, in stormy weather!!!
Q.What is more difficult than getting 2 pregnant elephants on a moving scooter,up the hill in stormy weather? (Enough of you, now don't add single word in your previous answer ). A.Getting 2nd elephant pregnant, on a moving scooter,up the hill,in stormy weather !!!
More later.....
I came back to France on 7th July and from then on having a tough time. I had to get my resident permit for that I need a address proof, for that I need a house, for that I need a bank account, for that I need a residence proof and it goes on like this.
After all the difficulties I managed to open a bank account and was very happy to discover that I managed to get a house the way I liked it and way I wanted to make the payment for the rent/electricity and all other amenities. In a way I was very lucky to get such a house. But ill luck is there always… The worst part of it is yet to begun.. We are a group of 3 families came from India, the other two are married and have kids. I’m only bachelor fellow. They both got the house and insured and all went on well. I was also following on the same steps. Here I have my surprise. The agreement for the house was taken on my company and the Insurance was on my name. The housing agency did not want to issue the key for me as the insurance was not meeting the required standards. Then I had to run here and there and try to ask for my bank to change the name. It they its not possible. Then I had to cancel this insurance and then move to another company who would give me the way I wanted the insurance.
And now I have moved into my house. More later with on the updates weekend travels I had made so far soon. In the mean time enjoy some flicks from Venkat
This one is too Kadi.Get set to Check ur IQ.
Q. What is more difficult than getting an elephant in a car?
A.Getting 2 elephants in a car!!
Q.What is more difficult than getting 2 elephants in a car?(Don't raise the number.) A.Getting 2 pregnant elephants in a car!!!
Q.What is more difficult than getting 2 pregnant elephants in a car? (Don't use another adjective for elephant).
A.Getting 2 pregnant elephants on a scooter!!
Q.What is more difficult than getting 2 pregnant elephants on a scooter? (Don't change the vehicle or animal).
A. Getting 2 pregnant elephants on a moving scooter!!!
Q.What is more difficult than getting 2 pregnant elephants on a moving scooter? (Don't use another adjective for scooter).
A.Getting 2 pregnant elephants on a moving scooter,up the hill !!
Q.What is more difficult than getting 2 pregnant elephants on a moving scooter,up the hill? A.Getting 2 pregnant elephants on a moving scooter,up the hill, in stormy weather!!!
Q.What is more difficult than getting 2 pregnant elephants on a moving scooter,up the hill in stormy weather? (Enough of you, now don't add single word in your previous answer ). A.Getting 2nd elephant pregnant, on a moving scooter,up the hill,in stormy weather !!!
More later.....
Tuesday, June 22, 2004
Wednesday, June 16, 2004
some thing new
I'm very happy to know that my writing on Frankfurt and Mumbai airport got possted in
Sleeping in airport
This site gives a nice read.
Do u all know Yahoo is giving 100MB for the e-mail and u can send an 10MB mail, that's intresting.
Sleeping in airport
This site gives a nice read.
Do u all know Yahoo is giving 100MB for the e-mail and u can send an 10MB mail, that's intresting.
Tuesday, June 15, 2004
After long time
I’m back after a hectic schedule. I’m sorry for not writing anything for a long time.
There are a couple of things I just want to touch base.
I have come back to Bangalore and have a range of topics to discuss on. Its starts with the benefits of Election to some fun on Auto Reply.
Bangalore is so far good except for the fact a thief broke into my house and had his share. I lost my favorite new NIKE AIR shoe along with the NEW Woodland pair. This let me down a lot. I know its silly to feel for shoes but I had a special liking for the NIKE one. Ok from there I move to Elections. U would have all have read a lot about elections. I’m not going to talk about the outcome of the elections, but here it’s about when we have a election what changes we c in our daily life. U could really c how the streets are decorated with colorful hoardings. They bring color to life, not just that colors but also shades. One day in the summer I was waiting for my pickup. During that time I was feeling little comfortable standing there, which is not the usual case. I was surprised to c one of the leaders cut-out was put there and he was standing there with the usual political style. This gave me enough shade to protect myself from the sun-rays(soorya oli not SOORYA). Once the elections are over as usual people are allowed to suffer when these are pulled down.
There is some pun I had observed in Out of office Auto reply long time back which I want to share with u all today. There was an instance when there was a vacation plan …it so happened that people had put others as contacts have also gone on vacation pointing to the people who have also gone on vacation. In such an instance an Out of office reply is observed just a mere ritual. Religiously no body bothers to follow the same.
Then to my favorite topic … eating out in B’lore. I must admit that I didn’t have much time to explore B’lore eat outs. Normally on weekends I go to Chennai and hardly have company to have food in B’lore. Last week Syam from Satyam came to B’lore and we had a nice time. The restaurant’s I tried are around and in MG Road. I had been in HYD MAHAL on Brigade Rd., u get nice northi food there. The Kebab was really super along with the Birayani. The Birayani was mild and it’s a prefect blend of spices. The other restaurant that needs a mention is on the MG road itself. It’s the EBONY which is on the 13th Floor in Barton Center on MG Road. The food that’s available ranges from Parsi to Continental. We tried some starters on Parsi and Continental for the main course.
There are a couple of things I just want to touch base.
I have come back to Bangalore and have a range of topics to discuss on. Its starts with the benefits of Election to some fun on Auto Reply.
Bangalore is so far good except for the fact a thief broke into my house and had his share. I lost my favorite new NIKE AIR shoe along with the NEW Woodland pair. This let me down a lot. I know its silly to feel for shoes but I had a special liking for the NIKE one. Ok from there I move to Elections. U would have all have read a lot about elections. I’m not going to talk about the outcome of the elections, but here it’s about when we have a election what changes we c in our daily life. U could really c how the streets are decorated with colorful hoardings. They bring color to life, not just that colors but also shades. One day in the summer I was waiting for my pickup. During that time I was feeling little comfortable standing there, which is not the usual case. I was surprised to c one of the leaders cut-out was put there and he was standing there with the usual political style. This gave me enough shade to protect myself from the sun-rays(soorya oli not SOORYA). Once the elections are over as usual people are allowed to suffer when these are pulled down.
There is some pun I had observed in Out of office Auto reply long time back which I want to share with u all today. There was an instance when there was a vacation plan …it so happened that people had put others as contacts have also gone on vacation pointing to the people who have also gone on vacation. In such an instance an Out of office reply is observed just a mere ritual. Religiously no body bothers to follow the same.
Then to my favorite topic … eating out in B’lore. I must admit that I didn’t have much time to explore B’lore eat outs. Normally on weekends I go to Chennai and hardly have company to have food in B’lore. Last week Syam from Satyam came to B’lore and we had a nice time. The restaurant’s I tried are around and in MG Road. I had been in HYD MAHAL on Brigade Rd., u get nice northi food there. The Kebab was really super along with the Birayani. The Birayani was mild and it’s a prefect blend of spices. The other restaurant that needs a mention is on the MG road itself. It’s the EBONY which is on the 13th Floor in Barton Center on MG Road. The food that’s available ranges from Parsi to Continental. We tried some starters on Parsi and Continental for the main course.
Monday, April 05, 2004
Kind of Enter-attain-meant
My favorite part time out here (In France ) is to watch all Latest Tamil movies and a couple of programs on MTV in the evening from 21Hrs to 23Hrs and the my most favorite past time of mine is cooking. What’s Cooking Guys?
On MTV there are ranges of programs (somebody please correct the spelling, u need to accept that I think of work always),is what need to be explained here.They are called as "MTV Personality Shows" It starts with my favorite “Scare tactics”, “I bet you will”,"VIva la Bam","WildBozy" and it goes on. The best things is why is such kind of programs are not made in Indian MTV. There are a few but they are not of this quality. One question that occurs to me is in a country like USA where they sue u for everything if such kinds of quality programs are made why not in a country like India they can do that. Come on can some one tell them to do this?
And now coming to my another favorite past time of mine is cooking. Cooking is such an easy one, a few items to be added and a few not to add, mind this otherwise u end up spoiling the complete dish. This skill I learnt it over a period of time. Imagine I made aloo parata last weekend within 45 minutes… and it was a grand success. People tell me often here pls keep u r laptop aside and start with cooking as main business ;-) Who knows i might be a great hit here...
More on these would be written later please revisit this session
On MTV there are ranges of programs (somebody please correct the spelling, u need to accept that I think of work always),is what need to be explained here.They are called as "MTV Personality Shows" It starts with my favorite “Scare tactics”, “I bet you will”,"VIva la Bam","WildBozy" and it goes on. The best things is why is such kind of programs are not made in Indian MTV. There are a few but they are not of this quality. One question that occurs to me is in a country like USA where they sue u for everything if such kinds of quality programs are made why not in a country like India they can do that. Come on can some one tell them to do this?
And now coming to my another favorite past time of mine is cooking. Cooking is such an easy one, a few items to be added and a few not to add, mind this otherwise u end up spoiling the complete dish. This skill I learnt it over a period of time. Imagine I made aloo parata last weekend within 45 minutes… and it was a grand success. People tell me often here pls keep u r laptop aside and start with cooking as main business ;-) Who knows i might be a great hit here...
More on these would be written later please revisit this session
Why men are called Gentlemen and women as Ladies?
I know and u all know, Men can handle things in a gentle way in all aspects of life. They have this special touch, Be it a business meeting or be it an social party they know it. On the contrary when I tried to find the meaning of Ladies, in daily use tool MS-Word .., u would be surprised by the result I got, it told me “not found ladies” u will be flabbergasted with the words that it pointed to “lack of understanding” U know by now why we are Gentlemen as always J
Wednesday, March 24, 2004
About me
I'm a proud Aries, to describe myself I'm a strong rushing RAM.
Any need for this? Just to blow my own horn here. I would like to share most of my travel experience along with other events also here.
What am I doing currently: Working in France
Status: Currently looking out a nice girl to marry me
Not to miss section: Sites u should for sure look at
Some achievements of mine
Highest international border crossing: France - Germany (11 times)
Coasts visited Bay of Bengal (India), Arabian Sea(India), Mediterranean Sea(France) , North Sea (Antwerp, Belgium) and Atlantic Ocean (Cardif, Wales)
Countries & Cities visited but yet to get in Swiss, Italy, Spain and Dubai
Countries Visited France, Germany, Luxembourg, Belgium, Netherlands, England, Wales and Austria
Any need for this? Just to blow my own horn here. I would like to share most of my travel experience along with other events also here.
What am I doing currently: Working in France
Status: Currently looking out a nice girl to marry me
Not to miss section: Sites u should for sure look at
Some achievements of mine
Highest international border crossing: France - Germany (11 times)
Coasts visited Bay of Bengal (India), Arabian Sea(India), Mediterranean Sea(France) , North Sea (Antwerp, Belgium) and Atlantic Ocean (Cardif, Wales)
Countries & Cities visited but yet to get in Swiss, Italy, Spain and Dubai
Countries Visited France, Germany, Luxembourg, Belgium, Netherlands, England, Wales and Austria
Adventure at Chamonix Mont-Blanc
Last week (3rd week of March) it was very tiring with lot of work and also the next week was promising to be a lengthy one. Now you will have to agree that I’m really busy. So decided to do some outing in a big way so that I feel bit relaxed. On Saturday finished my lunch early (let me call its as brunch) and wanted to go to Gares (railway station in French). After the hearty meal my legs were not willing to move out of my apartment, they were pulling me to sleep (which I’m blessed with at any time and any place I can sleep, not in meeting I need to admit). I wanted to go out at any cost this weekend so proceeded to Gares.
In the Gares I went and enquired as how we go to Mont-Blanc, in Chamonix. Mont-Blanc is the Alps range which borders Italy, Swiss & France. It’s the highest peak in Europe with lot of glaciers. Chamonix offers excellent option for all those who have some or little adventure spirit in them. Ok let me talk about this place in detail later. Then went to the booking person in Gares and asked him how to reach Mont-Blanc. He said we will have to take a train which is at 8.15am the next day and would reach the place by 1.30 pm after changing 3 trains, and way back he informed us that we have a direct bus. I was happy to hear on the return journey, but wanted to reach early. Asked him to check on the earliest connection. He said there is one at 6.05am leave Grenoble and reach Annecy at 7.41 from there at 7.57 take the second train to St.Gerrais and reach les Bains at 9.35 and at 9.52 take a train to Chamonix at 10.32 hrs. I was very happy to see the schedule. So 3 of us decided to go, and was checking on the fares. The booking clerk told us it could cost 168 Euros. Then I saw there some board on discounts, I asked him what is that about. He told me that there is a Rhone-Alps travel card (that’s the district I’m in France). If you buy that get you get 50% reduction for travel made on weekends and holidays & 25% on weekdays, and it was valid for 3 people including the person who holds this for a period of one year. Oh my God it’s a steal, so we went ahead and bought a ticket including a 40 Euro discount card, which costs us only 124 Euros. Then happily went home after doing some shopping in C&A with big discounts. After reaching home I watched 2 latest Tamil movies. I need to admit that I hardly see movies in India but here I’m totally spoiled, I almost watch 2-3 movies a weekend. There is an Srilankan store who gives us all latest movies in VCD @ 1.5 Euros per movie. This is a nice time pass. The next day we were supposed to take a train at 6am, before that I should get my photo fixed on the ID provided to me on the discount card.
On Sunday I left early, leaving behind the other two to come join me at 5.50. I went there early to the railway station to get my id fixed with photo. When I went to the tram stop I discovered that on Sundays we have the first one at 5.50 am to reach Gares. So rushed back to the apartment and made a call to a taxi and we all 3 left together. Then happily we got into the train at the right time and was eagerly awaiting to get down at Annacy (remember this train is going to Geneva in Swiss). From there we will have to take another train and reach St.Gerrais and then by another train to reach Chamonix. We were like waiting for our stop to arrive, and did not come till 7.55. We were passing a very big lake and it was very beautiful and the train had to pass thru a lot of tunnels. It was really a sight worth watching. But we were like little worried as the train was traveling without any stop. And the train was approaching a station I quickly went the map in the train and checked what the destination we were approaching the station. To my shock it was the station before the final destination. I was little worried as the final station was a different county (swiss), which is not in Schengen states, and to top all this I was not carrying my passport. There are a very high chances that we would be deported if we reach Geneva in Swiss and we will be in deep trouble. So decided to hop off at this station. Good we did that; otherwise we would have invited serious trouble, that doesn’t mean that we did not have any now after getting down here. There was a lot in store when we got down here. This place is a remote station in the border of France & Swiss, on the France side. When we got down and enquired with the ticket inspector we were informed that we were traveling in the wrong compartment. Actually this train, which originated in our place goes to two destinations. Here in Europe I need to tell u one train goes to 3 places. That’s is how our next train was. We where in utter shock not knowing what to do. I’m normally very careful about this as I have traveled in lot of trains like this in Europe earlier, where in one train going to many places. Some how I over looked this and it passed my notice. So we enquired from him as how we reach from that place-Belegrade to our final destination. We were told that the next train is at 11am and would reach Chamonix by 1.30 only after changing another train. 3 Hrs in that station is a big time. You know after all bomb blast in Madrid and bomb scare in France trains we can expect the worst thing ahead of us in the next 3 hrs. We went to the only bar in the station and picked up the long coffee and sat there and spent our next one hour. After we decided to come out and explore it there are any other option available. Here is our trouble starts. Police intercept us and ask about whom we are and our details. 2 of us did not have passports and luckly we have our company ID, since it’s a famous company with a brand, we are saved. Then we explained them what trouble we are undergoing and they end up with a smile. This we have to do atleast 2 more times. In the mean time we saw what all destination out train would reach, then we discovered that our train and another train, which was about to leave, have the same end point. So one of the person was pushing us to go ahead and go by this autobus and atleast reach another destination, so that it will be a kind of change of place. But exploring further later after reaching out final destination we discovered that it was on the totally in the direction opposite we were supposed to reach. That destination is close to the Italy border. My God, I was insisting that we only go by the plan what was suggested at 8am and was denying to look at other options. In a way it was good. Otherwise we would have landed in another corner of France and would have invited more trouble. Then at 11am our train came. It had 8 coached and of them 2 were attached to another 2 which was already in the platform and then the next 2 goes to Geneva, next 2 to another place were we planned to take an en-route and the first 2 to our second stop before our final destination. Oh my goodness one train can go to so many places … no wonder why we are here. The train finally left for our second destination. This train went past the swiss border and was also into one swiss station. It legal to travel inside swiss with a valid ticket to another location in France. If u get down then you are caught and sent back, depending on u r luck. So we just sat in the train waiting for it to come into the France range. After leaving another 2 coached there in that station we came back in France with 4 coaches with 2 coached heading to the destination we are supposed to go. And finally we arrive at our second point. From there we took another train to Chamonix. This train is very special. This is called Mont-Blanc express and this goes to Swiss Alps. If u a resident of that region you need not buy a ticket to travel by this train it seems. The travel is free. Its like traveling in the mini train that takes us to Ooty from Mettupalayam. The train is multi colored with France and Swiss flag and the train is well decorated. We had a nice ride on a smooth, comfortable train through spectacular snow clad Alpine scenery. Along the line there are a number of stations with easy access to tourist sites such as the Mer de Glace and Aiguille du Midi.. From the French station of St Gervais with a steep climb to the Chamonix valley. After running the length of the valley, they pass through the Montroc Tunnel to a high point near le Buet in the Vallorcine valley. The excitement continues above a stunning precipice towards the Trient valley. Another tunnel marks the beginning of the final descent into the Rhône valley and the town of Martigny. After all this adventure here we are at Chamonix.
Chamonix
The town of Chamonix Mt-Blanc is 1042m (3,396 ft) above sea level at the foot of the Mt-Blanc, the highest peak in Western Europe at 4807m (15,770 ft). The resident population of the valley is about 10,000. The seasonal workers and tourists can add another 100,000 on any given day in a winter high season week and 130,000 in the summer. This is very similar to Garmisch in Germany, which I had been to with a similar experience earlier some 3 years back during my visit to Germany. Garmisch is in Germany Alps which borders 4 countries, they are Germany, Italy, Austria and Swiss. Then we did not want to waster time and rush to the cable car station to explore the beauty of this region. Then the Discover the beautiful region of the Mt Blanc and the Valley du Trient was done by using another train + cable car + a long walk in the mountains. The Montenvers Train departs from it's own station next to the main station in Chamonix. This old funicular climbs a steep track to a stunning vantage point above the Mer de Glace. From here, views of Les Grandes Jorasses and the Les Drus are exceptional. From the top station at Montenvers walk down to the glacier and into an ice grotto. This is the most exciting experience. As we reached the glacier it was very slippery. This valley is very scenic and equally a very difficult terrain to walk in the snow. This is called the Sea of ice. Really as the name goes we didn’t find any snow. We saw some ice caves and ice cubes, no snow. It makes very difficult to walk without the right kind of shoe or gear. We enjoyed the ice cave they have spread some carpets so that its easy for us to walk in the glaciers. Then after a visit to the caves we came out and there a beautiful spread of ice and glacier. They have marked the area and was clearly mentioned that we enter that area at our own risk. We decided to take a walk and a few places we had a fall, I went on back in one place since it was very difficult to walk. It’s not snow or ice .. it’s a glacier so u can’t walk on that. In some places people have put some snow so that we could walk on them and get into big caves. I tried getting into one cave I was close to only 10% of it inside. Suddenly we discovered that some snowfall was making a fresh blocking the entrance. So I rushed out and did not want to take a risk. Only very few people go to that area so it was worth taking the risk. The color of the glacier is one that requires a special mention. Its sky blue color and it will give a special kind of reflection if you travel there in the morning early. After visiting all this we came back and the rain started. Luckly we have an excellent bus driver who had put on some nice French Jazz. We enjoyed our way back to Grenoble also. My only disappointment was I wanted to take ski but could not do that due to lack of time. Any it ended well except a few hitches. That’s ok.
In the Gares I went and enquired as how we go to Mont-Blanc, in Chamonix. Mont-Blanc is the Alps range which borders Italy, Swiss & France. It’s the highest peak in Europe with lot of glaciers. Chamonix offers excellent option for all those who have some or little adventure spirit in them. Ok let me talk about this place in detail later. Then went to the booking person in Gares and asked him how to reach Mont-Blanc. He said we will have to take a train which is at 8.15am the next day and would reach the place by 1.30 pm after changing 3 trains, and way back he informed us that we have a direct bus. I was happy to hear on the return journey, but wanted to reach early. Asked him to check on the earliest connection. He said there is one at 6.05am leave Grenoble and reach Annecy at 7.41 from there at 7.57 take the second train to St.Gerrais and reach les Bains at 9.35 and at 9.52 take a train to Chamonix at 10.32 hrs. I was very happy to see the schedule. So 3 of us decided to go, and was checking on the fares. The booking clerk told us it could cost 168 Euros. Then I saw there some board on discounts, I asked him what is that about. He told me that there is a Rhone-Alps travel card (that’s the district I’m in France). If you buy that get you get 50% reduction for travel made on weekends and holidays & 25% on weekdays, and it was valid for 3 people including the person who holds this for a period of one year. Oh my God it’s a steal, so we went ahead and bought a ticket including a 40 Euro discount card, which costs us only 124 Euros. Then happily went home after doing some shopping in C&A with big discounts. After reaching home I watched 2 latest Tamil movies. I need to admit that I hardly see movies in India but here I’m totally spoiled, I almost watch 2-3 movies a weekend. There is an Srilankan store who gives us all latest movies in VCD @ 1.5 Euros per movie. This is a nice time pass. The next day we were supposed to take a train at 6am, before that I should get my photo fixed on the ID provided to me on the discount card.
On Sunday I left early, leaving behind the other two to come join me at 5.50. I went there early to the railway station to get my id fixed with photo. When I went to the tram stop I discovered that on Sundays we have the first one at 5.50 am to reach Gares. So rushed back to the apartment and made a call to a taxi and we all 3 left together. Then happily we got into the train at the right time and was eagerly awaiting to get down at Annacy (remember this train is going to Geneva in Swiss). From there we will have to take another train and reach St.Gerrais and then by another train to reach Chamonix. We were like waiting for our stop to arrive, and did not come till 7.55. We were passing a very big lake and it was very beautiful and the train had to pass thru a lot of tunnels. It was really a sight worth watching. But we were like little worried as the train was traveling without any stop. And the train was approaching a station I quickly went the map in the train and checked what the destination we were approaching the station. To my shock it was the station before the final destination. I was little worried as the final station was a different county (swiss), which is not in Schengen states, and to top all this I was not carrying my passport. There are a very high chances that we would be deported if we reach Geneva in Swiss and we will be in deep trouble. So decided to hop off at this station. Good we did that; otherwise we would have invited serious trouble, that doesn’t mean that we did not have any now after getting down here. There was a lot in store when we got down here. This place is a remote station in the border of France & Swiss, on the France side. When we got down and enquired with the ticket inspector we were informed that we were traveling in the wrong compartment. Actually this train, which originated in our place goes to two destinations. Here in Europe I need to tell u one train goes to 3 places. That’s is how our next train was. We where in utter shock not knowing what to do. I’m normally very careful about this as I have traveled in lot of trains like this in Europe earlier, where in one train going to many places. Some how I over looked this and it passed my notice. So we enquired from him as how we reach from that place-Belegrade to our final destination. We were told that the next train is at 11am and would reach Chamonix by 1.30 only after changing another train. 3 Hrs in that station is a big time. You know after all bomb blast in Madrid and bomb scare in France trains we can expect the worst thing ahead of us in the next 3 hrs. We went to the only bar in the station and picked up the long coffee and sat there and spent our next one hour. After we decided to come out and explore it there are any other option available. Here is our trouble starts. Police intercept us and ask about whom we are and our details. 2 of us did not have passports and luckly we have our company ID, since it’s a famous company with a brand, we are saved. Then we explained them what trouble we are undergoing and they end up with a smile. This we have to do atleast 2 more times. In the mean time we saw what all destination out train would reach, then we discovered that our train and another train, which was about to leave, have the same end point. So one of the person was pushing us to go ahead and go by this autobus and atleast reach another destination, so that it will be a kind of change of place. But exploring further later after reaching out final destination we discovered that it was on the totally in the direction opposite we were supposed to reach. That destination is close to the Italy border. My God, I was insisting that we only go by the plan what was suggested at 8am and was denying to look at other options. In a way it was good. Otherwise we would have landed in another corner of France and would have invited more trouble. Then at 11am our train came. It had 8 coached and of them 2 were attached to another 2 which was already in the platform and then the next 2 goes to Geneva, next 2 to another place were we planned to take an en-route and the first 2 to our second stop before our final destination. Oh my goodness one train can go to so many places … no wonder why we are here. The train finally left for our second destination. This train went past the swiss border and was also into one swiss station. It legal to travel inside swiss with a valid ticket to another location in France. If u get down then you are caught and sent back, depending on u r luck. So we just sat in the train waiting for it to come into the France range. After leaving another 2 coached there in that station we came back in France with 4 coaches with 2 coached heading to the destination we are supposed to go. And finally we arrive at our second point. From there we took another train to Chamonix. This train is very special. This is called Mont-Blanc express and this goes to Swiss Alps. If u a resident of that region you need not buy a ticket to travel by this train it seems. The travel is free. Its like traveling in the mini train that takes us to Ooty from Mettupalayam. The train is multi colored with France and Swiss flag and the train is well decorated. We had a nice ride on a smooth, comfortable train through spectacular snow clad Alpine scenery. Along the line there are a number of stations with easy access to tourist sites such as the Mer de Glace and Aiguille du Midi.. From the French station of St Gervais with a steep climb to the Chamonix valley. After running the length of the valley, they pass through the Montroc Tunnel to a high point near le Buet in the Vallorcine valley. The excitement continues above a stunning precipice towards the Trient valley. Another tunnel marks the beginning of the final descent into the Rhône valley and the town of Martigny. After all this adventure here we are at Chamonix.
Chamonix
The town of Chamonix Mt-Blanc is 1042m (3,396 ft) above sea level at the foot of the Mt-Blanc, the highest peak in Western Europe at 4807m (15,770 ft). The resident population of the valley is about 10,000. The seasonal workers and tourists can add another 100,000 on any given day in a winter high season week and 130,000 in the summer. This is very similar to Garmisch in Germany, which I had been to with a similar experience earlier some 3 years back during my visit to Germany. Garmisch is in Germany Alps which borders 4 countries, they are Germany, Italy, Austria and Swiss. Then we did not want to waster time and rush to the cable car station to explore the beauty of this region. Then the Discover the beautiful region of the Mt Blanc and the Valley du Trient was done by using another train + cable car + a long walk in the mountains. The Montenvers Train departs from it's own station next to the main station in Chamonix. This old funicular climbs a steep track to a stunning vantage point above the Mer de Glace. From here, views of Les Grandes Jorasses and the Les Drus are exceptional. From the top station at Montenvers walk down to the glacier and into an ice grotto. This is the most exciting experience. As we reached the glacier it was very slippery. This valley is very scenic and equally a very difficult terrain to walk in the snow. This is called the Sea of ice. Really as the name goes we didn’t find any snow. We saw some ice caves and ice cubes, no snow. It makes very difficult to walk without the right kind of shoe or gear. We enjoyed the ice cave they have spread some carpets so that its easy for us to walk in the glaciers. Then after a visit to the caves we came out and there a beautiful spread of ice and glacier. They have marked the area and was clearly mentioned that we enter that area at our own risk. We decided to take a walk and a few places we had a fall, I went on back in one place since it was very difficult to walk. It’s not snow or ice .. it’s a glacier so u can’t walk on that. In some places people have put some snow so that we could walk on them and get into big caves. I tried getting into one cave I was close to only 10% of it inside. Suddenly we discovered that some snowfall was making a fresh blocking the entrance. So I rushed out and did not want to take a risk. Only very few people go to that area so it was worth taking the risk. The color of the glacier is one that requires a special mention. Its sky blue color and it will give a special kind of reflection if you travel there in the morning early. After visiting all this we came back and the rain started. Luckly we have an excellent bus driver who had put on some nice French Jazz. We enjoyed our way back to Grenoble also. My only disappointment was I wanted to take ski but could not do that due to lack of time. Any it ended well except a few hitches. That’s ok.
Popular pranks I played
Calling my friends wife who has applied for US VISA, as though I’m calling from consulate office and asked for her date of birth and mother’s maiden name etc.
Calling on of the delivery head in one of my previous office and discussing on resource allocation.
Calling up one of my faculty (most favorite coordinator) as another person my in batch and informing her that Venkat (that’s me) had met with an accident.
Hacking the people password when they enter in ATM and discuss the PIN on the phone
Call someone and tell them that I’m angry and serious because of their act (which I’m not at all, have u ever seen me serious)
Calling my people in office as DSA (direct sales associates) of popular multi-national banks and provide information on the loans and credit cards and finally give my number to contact
Played computer games in one of my office in one late night and made my Project Manager join me on that
Calling on of the delivery head in one of my previous office and discussing on resource allocation.
Calling up one of my faculty (most favorite coordinator) as another person my in batch and informing her that Venkat (that’s me) had met with an accident.
Hacking the people password when they enter in ATM and discuss the PIN on the phone
Call someone and tell them that I’m angry and serious because of their act (which I’m not at all, have u ever seen me serious)
Calling my people in office as DSA (direct sales associates) of popular multi-national banks and provide information on the loans and credit cards and finally give my number to contact
Played computer games in one of my office in one late night and made my Project Manager join me on that
Thursday, March 11, 2004
Monday, March 08, 2004
Merci to Marseille
I had been to Marseille on the last weekend. Infact we (Siva, Ilan & myself) started to go to MONT-BLANC for ski, but the climate very foggy so all buses were cancelled. In the last minute decided to go Marseille. We bought the ticket in Grenoble and we have only 5 minutes to catch the TER train... it was fun to run and catch the train. We had to travel by a TER & a TGV trains to reach that place.
We went to Valance and then from there by another TGV train we went to Marseille. This TGV train station of Valance needs a special mention. Its built on top of the tracks. I think TGV train stations are separate from normal train stations. It’s like an Airport. This has all TGV trains coming and branching. Its one of its kind in the world it seems. Then we reached Marseille.
At Marseille the train station was on top of a hill. We had to climb some 100-150 steps to get down to the city. This city is also well connected by trams, buses, waterways and trains. The city is so beautiful it doesn't resemble “no other city”.
The city is on a beautiful Mediterranean coast. It has a natural harbor. Its a modern, cosmopolitan city located in southeastern France on the Mediterranean Sea, dating back 2,500 years, it is now France’s second largest city. Greeks discovered it in 600 BC.
Its the most renowned and populated city in France after Paris, MARSEILLE has - like the capital - prospered and been ransacked over the centuries.
It has lost its privileges to sundry French kings and foreign armies, recovered its fortunes, suffered plagues (two of them), religious bigotry, republican and royalist terror and had its own Commune and Bastille-storming.
Our journey started from Vieux-Port (old harbor), then the climb up the Notre-Dame de la Garde Basilica - the "God Mother" who watches over the city gives an excellent. Some facts about the place “the height of the statue 12.5 m weight of the statue 9796 Kgs weight of the great bell 8234 Kgs”
The attached file is the view you get from there only. There are close 140 islands that make this place; you can view almost lot of these from there. One of the islands houses the famous Jail “” - This jail inspired Alexandre Dumas to write the book "Count of Monte Cristo"
There are numerous forts, It was the presence of so many Marseillaise Revolutionaries marching from the Rhine to Paris in 1792 which gave the Hymn of the Army of the Rhine its name of La Marseillaise , later to become the national anthem.
Today, it's an undeniable fact that Marseille is a deprived city, not particularly beautiful architecturally, and with acres of grim 1960’s housing estates. The houses have big gardens and they all dates back many years.
Yet it's a wonderful place to visit - a real, down-to-earth yet cosmopolitan port city with a trading history going back over 2500 years. The people are gregarious, generous, endlessly talkative and unconcerned if their style seems. The best thing is every body speaks very good “Anglais”, one more reason why I love Marseille.
When roaming around the street I saw lot of posters saying March 13th is the Carnival day in “Marseille”. I was telling Siva that we should have come next week. It would have been more fun. The reason why I was missing it was I had attended the Carnival in Koblenz when I was in Germany . The God Mother of Marseille was hearing my lament all the while and she has some surprise for me.
She was very kind to me, after we got our return tickets confirmed when we came down the railway station to grab some thing for dinner we saw lot of color paper pieces striven around. She gave the pointer as to which direction the carnival parade had gone. We closely followed the trail of the music, which took us to the carnival streets. Looks like this was a prelude one to the next week's one...I was thanking God for directing me here. And I enjoyed myself.. Took a couple of photos along with the people dressed crazily "real crazy I mean in all sense" ... then we had to run back to get our train for our way back to Grenoble. The fun did not end there.......
When we reached Valance we were informed that we would have to travel by bus as this sector was closed due to the security reasons. Guess what ??? Some one has planted bombs in the railway tracks in France 32000 KM railway network - that’s the threat. The group, known as AZF, said it would explode the 10 devices unless a ransom of $4m and 1m euros (£2.8m) was paid. Read more on this
So when we boarded a TGV bus the real fun ... remember the grab we got to have for the dinner. After getting into the bus I open my salad and started having that. Siva and myself sat in the seat just behind the driver. I was about to finish my grab..in the mean time Siva offered Ilan some food. The bus driver didn't notice this. Ilan refused to have as he was saying ‘we don't know if we can have it inside the bus’. But Siva insisted and gave him the salad. He had to take the salad from the polythene cover... so this is the culprit. The driver of the bus saw this and pulled the bus to the side of the road and halted it. He was shouting in French, which we didn't understand. Then we had to hurriedly put back everything in the bag and wait for the arrival at Grenoble.
We went to Valance and then from there by another TGV train we went to Marseille. This TGV train station of Valance needs a special mention. Its built on top of the tracks. I think TGV train stations are separate from normal train stations. It’s like an Airport. This has all TGV trains coming and branching. Its one of its kind in the world it seems. Then we reached Marseille.
At Marseille the train station was on top of a hill. We had to climb some 100-150 steps to get down to the city. This city is also well connected by trams, buses, waterways and trains. The city is so beautiful it doesn't resemble “no other city”.
The city is on a beautiful Mediterranean coast. It has a natural harbor. Its a modern, cosmopolitan city located in southeastern France on the Mediterranean Sea, dating back 2,500 years, it is now France’s second largest city. Greeks discovered it in 600 BC.
Its the most renowned and populated city in France after Paris, MARSEILLE has - like the capital - prospered and been ransacked over the centuries.
It has lost its privileges to sundry French kings and foreign armies, recovered its fortunes, suffered plagues (two of them), religious bigotry, republican and royalist terror and had its own Commune and Bastille-storming.
Our journey started from Vieux-Port (old harbor), then the climb up the Notre-Dame de la Garde Basilica - the "God Mother" who watches over the city gives an excellent. Some facts about the place “the height of the statue 12.5 m weight of the statue 9796 Kgs weight of the great bell 8234 Kgs”
The attached file is the view you get from there only. There are close 140 islands that make this place; you can view almost lot of these from there. One of the islands houses the famous Jail “” - This jail inspired Alexandre Dumas to write the book "Count of Monte Cristo"
There are numerous forts, It was the presence of so many Marseillaise Revolutionaries marching from the Rhine to Paris in 1792 which gave the Hymn of the Army of the Rhine its name of La Marseillaise , later to become the national anthem.
Today, it's an undeniable fact that Marseille is a deprived city, not particularly beautiful architecturally, and with acres of grim 1960’s housing estates. The houses have big gardens and they all dates back many years.
Yet it's a wonderful place to visit - a real, down-to-earth yet cosmopolitan port city with a trading history going back over 2500 years. The people are gregarious, generous, endlessly talkative and unconcerned if their style seems. The best thing is every body speaks very good “Anglais”, one more reason why I love Marseille.
When roaming around the street I saw lot of posters saying March 13th is the Carnival day in “Marseille”. I was telling Siva that we should have come next week. It would have been more fun. The reason why I was missing it was I had attended the Carnival in Koblenz when I was in Germany . The God Mother of Marseille was hearing my lament all the while and she has some surprise for me.
She was very kind to me, after we got our return tickets confirmed when we came down the railway station to grab some thing for dinner we saw lot of color paper pieces striven around. She gave the pointer as to which direction the carnival parade had gone. We closely followed the trail of the music, which took us to the carnival streets. Looks like this was a prelude one to the next week's one...I was thanking God for directing me here. And I enjoyed myself.. Took a couple of photos along with the people dressed crazily "real crazy I mean in all sense" ... then we had to run back to get our train for our way back to Grenoble. The fun did not end there.......
When we reached Valance we were informed that we would have to travel by bus as this sector was closed due to the security reasons. Guess what ??? Some one has planted bombs in the railway tracks in France 32000 KM railway network - that’s the threat. The group, known as AZF, said it would explode the 10 devices unless a ransom of $4m and 1m euros (£2.8m) was paid. Read more on this
So when we boarded a TGV bus the real fun ... remember the grab we got to have for the dinner. After getting into the bus I open my salad and started having that. Siva and myself sat in the seat just behind the driver. I was about to finish my grab..in the mean time Siva offered Ilan some food. The bus driver didn't notice this. Ilan refused to have as he was saying ‘we don't know if we can have it inside the bus’. But Siva insisted and gave him the salad. He had to take the salad from the polythene cover... so this is the culprit. The driver of the bus saw this and pulled the bus to the side of the road and halted it. He was shouting in French, which we didn't understand. Then we had to hurriedly put back everything in the bag and wait for the arrival at Grenoble.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)
