Maps & Money
So the sheer size (and buying power) of my home nation is almost impossible for other people to get their heads around. And I can’t really blame them. But behold: a map of the US – each state is labelled with a nation that has a comparable GDP. Now, do take it with a grain … Continue reading
The Kyrgyz Landscape
Legend has it that God created the world in six days and then took a rest, relaxing in all he had made. Afterward, all the peoples of the earth came to his resting place to pay him homage. He gifted each tribe with a corner of the world in which to grow and prosper. But … Continue reading
Kyrgyz Ahoy!
So remember how I won those plane tickets? Thanks to those of you who voted in the poll, Marrakesh was the firm favourite. I regret to inform you however, dear readers, that your choice has been disregarded. After all, I won TWO tickets, and I think my partner-in-crime deserved the trump vote. You see, I … Continue reading
The Pentlands
Edinburgh is nestled among the hills, a little oasis on the waterfront. Each peak and each range have their own character – from the imposing volcanic mass of Arthur’s Seat to the sweetly suburban greenery on Blackford Hill. Now we have Ollie, I am spending a good deal more time out south, in the Pentland … Continue reading
bmi #150ticketgiveaway
<<<Go straight to the poll>>> So I’m not one for advert blogging, but this is story is worth sharing. bmi are [have been] giving away free flights. Yesterday, on their social media pages, they released clues about certain locations across Belfast and Edinburgh [I think they’re also doing Manchester and London later, too]. In short: … Continue reading
SHJIBF Opening Ceremony
This morning, the Sharjah International Book Fair was opened to the public. The first event was a conglomeration of several special celebrations: An opening brunch of incredible decadence, attended by Culture Ministers, Ambassadors, literary professionals and government agencies, hosted by His Highness Dr. Sheikh Sultan Bin Mohammad Al Qasimi, Member of the Supreme Council of … Continue reading
Sharjah : a crash course
Next week, I head to foreign shores. I’ll fly to Dubai and then be escorted to the Emirate next door: Sharjah, for the Sharjah International Book Fair. While Abu Dhabi and Dubai are well known names even in Scotland, usually conjuring images of the exotic Arabia and glitzy high rises, the UAE as a whole … Continue reading
Que Sera Sara? 