Category: out and about

Street Snaps: Secret Rose Boudoir Tea Party

Last month, I had the opportunity to attend a grand tea party in Baltimore hosted by the lady behind Moss Marchen. Held in the Royal Sonesta Hotel in Baltimore, I couldn’t pass up the opportunity to meet some 90+ fans of Lolita fashion.  While Otakon was occurring that same weekend, a good portion of people had attended just for this event alone!

It was certainly a grand affair which everyone pulled out all the stops when it came to their coordinates. I was very impressed, overwhelmed and blown away by the entire well-dressed crowd.

Note: As always, please credit me if you decide to use these photos elsewhere. And if you see your photo and would like it taken down, please let me know!

Weekend Getaway at Connecticon 2014

Having been to bigger cons like New York Comic Con and Otakon, it makes me appreciate the quaint smaller cons.  With larger events you have to really plan out your day, while smaller events you have the choice of going or not going — and it’s not a great disappointment if you are not able to go you will be able to find something else to do.  In addition, I’m able to see the small con grow bigger.

This is why I’m growing to love Connecticon.

Compared to last year it was apparent that convention grew-whether it was attendance or organization-in some way that was different but still felt the same.  
The Tea Tasting Workshop was packed and overflowing despite it being extending to all 3 days of the convention. Quite an outstanding success having been it’s second year running.

Paradise Kiss Cosplay
The Lolita Fashion Show was moved to a bigger room as well. While Connecticut Lolitas are a smaller but growing grassroots bunch of people.

This convention also attracts a lot of Disney characters that one could certainly make a photo scavenger hunt out of it. 
ConnectiCon is unlike specific conventions but an amalgation of everything: comics, anime, tv, film and more.  This year feature people like Noah Hataway from Neverending Story, and the infamous voices behind Invader Zim.  I attended the Invader Zim panel out of nostalgia.  Former college roommates exposed me to the bizarre cartoon during my senior year and I recall being disturbed and terrified by them quoting from the show out of nowhere. But I enjoy the fact they enjoyed it.  The panel brought back the insane memories that senior can often bring.

Ellen McClain and John Patrick Lowrie
Also this was a convention that was very literary, inviting authors and writers alike to talk about…well writing.  I went to several panels last year about laying the groundwork about starting a book.  This year I decided to attend a panel about the characters moving a story as well as the benefits motivating yourself by joining writing groups. It was reminiscent of the time I saw J.M. Stracinski’s workshop at C2E2. The best part was that it ended in a song.

Uncle Yo’s panels were a hit as always, but was incredibly impressed by his “Magical GIrl Boot Camp.” It was an breakdown and overview of prominent bishoujo shows like Sailor Moon to Madoka and pairing them with exercises from P90.  The best part would have to be the audience participation which everyone loved.  Anime often motivates fans to learn Japanese or travel to Japan, but exercise? That is movement I’d really like to see.

Connecticon is always a great “starter” con despite its growth.  It’s a great introduction to “con culture.”  Check out below for the other cool cosplay I spotted that weekend.

 

 

Steady As She Goes: Connecticon 2013

You are not in NYC anymore, Pucca.

It was a weekend of firsts: it was the first weekend where the weather was below 90 degrees; the first weekend I stayed in Connecticut instead of just passing through; it was the first time time I attended a convention that was not an anime or comic focused; finally, it was my first time at ConnectiCon.
UncleYo vouched for the convention every time I had a chance to talk to him. This year I was fortunate to attend as Press. Coming from New York it was a hop, skip, jump to Downtown Hartford by Metro-North. Not only that but ParfaitDoll was nice enough to offer me a place to stay.  Not only that but the weather held out to be perfect for a convention unlike the heatwave that continues in New York City.

The family that watches Korra together, stays together.
Which witch is which?

I must say that it was refreshing. As I’ve talk to many attendee goers, it was a con for those who did not or could not go very far and still wanted a con experience — and you certainly get that at the Connecticut Convention Center. Unlike Otakon or New York Comic Con, ConnectiCon was a smattering of fandoms: there’s anime, comics, celebrities and a panel room that always has something to do with Doctor Who.

Doug Walker autograph signing.

Little Witches Academia.

While Connecticon boasts an attendance of 10,000 plus people, it still felt small; which for me was a good thing.  I never had to worry about lines, crowds, or if I had eaten anything at all that day. Yet on Friday lines were still out the door and everyone was waiting to get into the Dealer’s Room. There had been few occurrences where I waited in line for a panel—unless it was for Jim Cummings or UncleYo.

Marina Sirtis and Magic a la Mode.

Marina Sirtis a bit peeved there are people leaving for Doctor Who panels.

Lolita Fashion and Life: Wearing Daily – hosted by Ramble Rori.

For a convention in the middle of Connecticut, the Lolita fashion community is quite strong — having not one, but three panels dedicated to Japanese fashion. There was a panel, run by Christina from Ramble Rori and Caro from FYeah Lolita on how to wear Lolita fashion daily and how to make your wardrobe more versatile (KISS).

Stick them with the pointy end. Perhaps slicing them is a better choice in this case.

Later in the day was a J-Fashion Show, featuring different fashions that you find wandering the streets of Tokyo.

Dolly kei; Shironuri; Cult Party; Aristocrat

Sweet Lolita; Gothic Lolita; Gyaru; Decora

Group shot.

Unfortunately I will regret due to the lack of seating (due to sword demos taken place the hours before) and dim lighting made for poor pictures on my part.

UMI sushi + tapas in Blue Back Square

Conveyor belt sushi in Connecticut. Who knew?

Since the show was the last thing on our list, Victoria and I celebrated surviving our first day with a sushi dinner. Umi is located in West Hartford in Blue Back Square – a fancy outdoor mall that reminds me of the Derby Street Shoppes in Hingham, MA. Umi is a conveyor belt sushi place that certainly stands out in the suburbs. I decided to try the sushi off the belt and it was good, especially if you went for the classic rolls. There were also odd flavors like BLT rolls and something called an Edamame Bomb.

Lolita Fashion 101 – the silhouette.

Swap Meets are good for those looking to clear and add to their Lolita fashion wardrobe.

Saturday we took it easy and attended the Lolita 101/Swap Meet panel. Oddly enough, I was told that the room was full yet when I peeked in again there were quite a few seats. However it was a constant rotation as the room was overpacked, leaving staff to ask any standing room people to leave. No matter where you go I suppose anything related to Lolita fashion will get a packed room. At the end of the panel was a swap meet for Lolitas or attendees to add or clear their wardrobe.

Jim Cummings Q&A

Jim Cummings Q&A started with the voice actor asking questions about his audience before they could ask their own question. This was intermingled with Cummings and Liz Landa actin out scenes from Star Wars (Winnie the Pooh as Darth Vader), The Godfather (Tigger as Micheal Corleone), and Gone with the Wind (Ray the Firefly as Rhett Butler).

Lastly was UncleYo’s panel which was his and friends telling convention stories. There were so many to choose that he left it up to the audience to choose. Eventually it divulge into telling the story of how he and his girlfriend meet, and reading aloud fanmade fujoshi featuring UncleYo.

Penne a la vodka – sauteed portobello mushrooms and red peppers tossed in tomato cream sauce made with house infused jalapeno vodka.
Connecticut treats their congoers right.

Our night ended with catching a bite to eat at the Front Street Bistro across the street. I’m always weary of food around a convention, much less inside a movie theater. Front Street Bistro though made you feel like you were at a restaurant with it’s outdoor dining and hardwood seating– despite lines right next door to see Pacific Rim for the nth time.  The menu was a typical burger and fries joint, and I opted for a penne a la vodka. Overall I was impressed by the service at 8PM on a Saturday during a convention: waiter was attentive and service was prompt, even the food was excellent. The penne was not drenched in heavily ladened vodka sauce and had slices of portobello mushroom. Also if you still had your badge, you could get 10% off your bill.

Potato Pancakes. 
Vanna White waffle. There is fruit under that. Somewhere.

Sunday was all about the brunch.  Victoria took me to a brunch place she frequents a lot – Leo’s Restaurant. It was your basic restaurant but the brunch was impressive and, I must say, creative. They had croissant-style french toast, a take on Huevos Rancheros, and a waffle named after a game show hostess. I went with potato pancakes…and could not finish. Victoria had a waffle that looked to be something from Milky Planet than waffle.

10 Most Important Things About Writing.

Once we arrived at the convention was I popped into a panel about how to improve your writing (i.e. Write a lot; Don’t be a perfectionist; Experience everything).

Kokeshi Doll Workshop

Victoria and I also tried our hand at making kokeshi dolls.

To drink or not to drink all the tea: that is the question.

Lastly there was a tea tasting panel where for $1 you got a souvenir cup, went to table, and learned about the tea they were brewing. This panel was also popular and almost sold out. Again we were told it was completely booked, but by per chance we were able to secure the last two spots.

Dealers’ Room

Haru Vamp as Bōsōzoku Black Lady with Sailor Moon 

Overall I had a wonderful first Connecticon experience and would certainly consider going again next year. It was the convention of my yesteryears when I thought AnimeNext was a big convention. It was a convention where I didn’t have the race at opposite ends of the Javits Center at New York Comic Con to catch a panel.  

Street Snaps: AnimeNext 2013

AnimeNext was fill with all kinds of fashion. From Lolita to casual to more Lolita. Chess Story’s Starry Night Angel and Baby’s Strawberry Pie lucky packs were popular, as well as a good smattering of gothic coordinates (The weather was perfect for it — not too cold, not too hot).

These are in no particular order, please enjoy!

Note: As always, please credit me if you decide to use these photos elsewhere. And if you see your photo and would like it taken down, please let me know!

Up Next, AnimeNext 2013

It has occurred to me that I have or will be traveling to a convention every month. It was AnimeBoston last month, and this month was AnimeNext.

To be truthful I haven’t attended AnimeNext since their move to the Garden State Exhibition Center in Somerset. As a New Yorker it was no longer a casual commute but a long trek that seemed more hassle that it was worth. However when they announced Baby, the Stars Shine Bright and MC Melody Doll
as guests, I had to repack my bags and travel to New Jersey.

AnimeNext is the starter convention for the summer and anyone interested in getting into the scene. It is small but it is just right if you are not quite ready for the big cons like Otakon and NYCC. I was not sure what to expect since I was too use to the Meadowlands.

Doubletree Hilton lobby.

Dealer’s Room

Aside from Vertical, Mediablasters was the only big industry name I saw in the dealer’s room.

The food was less desirable but this con was more about just hanging out with friends as soon as summer starts.

Saturday’s lunch and dinner consisted of this turkey club.

Unless you had a car or staying at the Doubletree Hilton, you could not travel too far without worrying about cars hitting you. In my last-minute case I was staying at the Holiday Inn, the hotel right across from everything.

Saturday.

To quote Uncle Yo “It’s an outdoor con.” It was spread out between the exhibition center, the Doubletree and the Holiday Inn — any in between green was left for photoshoots and lounging with friends.

Rain, rain go away. Come again after con.

Much better.

Which was very true as the weekend progressed to rainy to sunny. Walking in the rain from the Doubletree to the Exhibition Center under narrow pathway is never comfortable – whether you are a Lolita, a cosplayer, or a regular attendee.

Baby designers were hard to miss.

My poor wallet. My closet however…

However for Lolitas it just gave them a better chance at browsing the Baby booth constantly and a chance to attend an exclusive tea party with the designers and Isobe.

Many faces of MC Melody Doll

MC Melody Doll’s panel was very informative as the “Real History of Lolita Fashion.” In truth, the history is vaguely muddled when you try to pinpoint the exact moment. It was full of honesty, letting the audience know that the history of Lolita fashion is “open source” and it encompasses everyone’s knowledge. So if you had something to share, share it.

She mentioned a book written by a Japanese Lolita about being a Lolita. Also that one reason that “Lolita” definition is so miscontrued because Japanese had made their own definition of the term associating it more with girlish innocence than with Nabokov. What is interesting to note was that the term “Kodona” is not used in Japan to describe the boystyle counterpart (rather they use ‘ouiji’ –it was a reference used by Western Lolitas (non-Japanese).

Panelists giving a synopsis of Cooking Master Boy.

I had attempted to attend UncleYo’s standup shows, twice in fact, only to be told by owrd of mouth that it was out of room before it even started. Saturday involved filling time before both fashion shows and having a good angle to take photos. I caught some of Anime Under the Radar, which examined a few shows you might have missed and should see. Naturally there was an audience participation portion to recommend stuff. One panel I wish I had gone to was Anime Cult Classics, a panel I later learn was anime made by cults.

Everyone wants to be a cat.

Because a cat’s the only cat,

The MintNeko and Lolita fashion show were back to back—both actually serving as a good compliment. There were some attendees worried about getting a seat for both, but fortunately they did not clear the room – letting those who wanted to go as they please and letting others to join the show. What I did enjoy was that there was a special press area for those taking pictures, giving me a prime spot at the corner of the stage.

Who knows where it’s at.

Everybody digs a swingin’ cat.

MintNeko‘s line is focused on several cats, all characters Mint has created himself with back stories. Like cats, each outfit and model reflected a different personality – some were sleepy, some were cool, some were cute, and some were just being a cat. During the Q&A he mentioned he was very much influenced by Vivienne Westwood and listened to Smashing Pumpkins. While his line is full of cats, Mint said he did not own one himself but there were a lot of strays nearby the h.Naoto office.

Baby, the Stars Shine Bright showed both there lines – Alice and the Pirates, their classic and more aristocratic style and Baby, the Stars Shine Bright, the sweet, feminine, and soft color line we all know. The music (including a remix of Debussy’s La Mer) highlighted their latest prints like Clockwork Tea party, and Marionette Doll series. While Baby was full of soft pastels and strawberries and lots of pink with Wiz Me Over the Rainbow, Juicy Baby Love Love, and Some Day Over Ranuculus.

Alice and the Pirates line.

Baby, the Stars Shine Bright

Masumi Kano

Saki Tachibana

Akinori Isobe, CEO of Baby, the Stars Shine Bright

MC Melody Doll helped as well.

Their Q&A varied from typical questions like will there be more plus-size clothes (They are looking into it but no plans), setting up an East Coast store (Would like to have one in NY but no definite plans but TokyoRebel carries both lines.), and if there was a mens’ line (Alice and the Pirates has a lot of aristocratic clothes sized for men). There was one question which hushed the room and it was about what they thought of replicas. Replicas any like any counterfeit runs rampart in the fashion industry, even in Lolita. It was an odd, perhaps daring question but their response was simply: ‘While it is ultimately left to their customer, they intend to create clothes made with such good quality that you would want to buy it (no matter the cost).’  For more pictures check out Life’s Sweet Essentials.

An intimate Meet & Greet with the designers.

MC Melody Doll’s “Lolita Truth Bombs

A full house.

Sunday was a casual day of last-minute purchases and saying goodbyes before catching MC Melody Doll’s “Truth Bombs” panel. If you weren’t aware of who she was she lip synced her video “Throw It In The Bag” just for kicks. She was real, facetious, and revealed her secret love of brolitas.

As I grabbed a taxi to the New Brunswick train station, I saw the extent of how much of the convention depended on the outside – there were attendees on the grass just lying about soaking in the company and the sun. Everyone was enjoying the outside as if it was a picnic in Central Park. Overall AnimeNext was convention I would certainly attend, depending on the guests. Right now they do have a special discount that you can pre-register for next year for only $35. Valid until tomorrow.

Street Snaps: AnimeBoston 2013

Group Shot after the Lolita panel.

Armed with the last of my business cards and a kit lens, I did my best to capture as many Lolitas as I could.

Note: As always, please credit me if you decide to use these photos elsewhere. And if you see your photo and would like it taken down, please let me know!

Dealer’s Room/Artist Alley:
Checkmate in Chess Chocolate.

Lolita Friends Forever

Roses are red.

Haneuli’s Stained Glass, and White Cat

Haenuli’s Royal Kitten in Red.

Lolita booth babe.

 Lolita Fashion Show

These two girls felt plain and unassuming, but with Lolita fashion that’s never the case.

Cute and blue.

My partner in line. First time AnimeBoston attendee.

Strawberry in Black.
Panelists who kept Lolita fashion real.

Brave girl! She a modified Gunne Sax dress.

Berry Bluebell.

“My spoon is too big.”
Two girls from New York who made the last minute decision to go.

Daydream Carnival Twins

Snow White in red.

Something Deeper’s Lynda sporting Wa lolita

Simply Strawberries.

Get this queen a coach.

Aristocratic Sophisticate.

Gloomy Beart vs. Lolita. Who do you think won?

Wait Awhile, And The Weather Will Change: AnimeBoston 2013

Winner of the Tales of Yokai contest – Honne Onna

AnimeBoston definitely felt like a whirlwind this year. With more panels to attend to and more people to see. And with the incident of the Boston Marathon just yards away, it really didn’t seem like it. In fact it was very much con fever as usual.


This year the con fell on Memorial Day weekend and I dreaded the day when I would have to book my hotel. However the Omni Parker House saved the day for me by offering a holiday discount on their rooms., making my trip more affordable (not by much but just enough) than if I stayed near the Hynes. I love this hotel for all it’s historic, haunted glory – it was fit for a Lolita like myself.

Room for one plus a spooky view of church windows next door.

The room was listed as an “Economy Petite Room with Twin Bed” and I actually expected a closet. By New York standards this was not a closet. In fact it was perfectly suited for just one person and had a full-sized bed. Being smart I signed up for their rewards program and as a member received a complimetary morning beverage service and free internet to check my email, etc.

Adorable Bleach family cosplay.

Arriving Thursday I was able to get my pass early with no troubles at all. Friday I wasn’t sure what to expect expecially only a few weeks after the Boston Marathon incident. However I was quite impressed by the amount of security and bag checks taking place. As far as I had seen no one had caused a scene and everything went smoothly. I was also surprised by bag checks by an entrance into Artist’s Alley adjacent to the Sheraton.

This fox girl fits well with the Tales of Yokai theme.
Cranes made by staff and attendees to bring hope and well wishes for  Boston.

Attending opening ceremonies in the morning, the two things that I found stuck out was Tom Wayland referencing Kakurenbo and Ringu as a reference to this year’s theme: Tales of Yokai. Also that one of the big guests this year was ORIGA, who sang the entire opening theme to Ghost in the Shell: Stand Alone Complex.

Magi cosplay.

The Harajuku Fashion Panel on the first floor was a full house and gave some interesting incite on general street fashion and trends.

IBI explaining this year’s collection.

Hair tip of the day – wet hair, insert into microwave, press “Start”

Next up was “Meet IBI” panel, featuring the designer of Sixh/Nine, who talked about his line. Like h.Naoto’s fashion lines, each has a distinctive look–with IBI it focused a lot on graphic design, having learned graphic design as a student above all else.

Sweet Mildred in Artist Alley

I took a break, grabbed some lunch in Chinatown and headed back to check out the rest of the con. The big difference this year that I saw was that the space for Artist’s Alley had gotten bigger. This improved from last year since I remember AA being quite crowded. At the same time this may mean that the Dealer’s Room is getting significantly smaller each year.

Original Cosplay Fashion Show – Swagdoka?

California Pizza Kitchen meal of penne pesto and chicken sesame dumplings.

Dinner I caught up with an old college friend—who I hadn’t seen since college—and we had a very long catch up at California Pizza Kitchen.

“If you like it, wear it, and own it.” – advice on getting into Lolita fashion
What we all waiting for – the fashion show lineup.

Saturday was an early start for me since the Lolita Fashion Show was at 10AM. I was a bit worried about the turn out but I was proven wrong with a pretty full house when the panel started. In a bigger room and slightly changed layout the girls did a great job. What caught me and everyone unawares was the models started their walk from the back of the room to the front. This was a good move since it allowed everyone to get a good snapshot.

Pho. Need I say more?

Afterwards I grabbed another friend, took the Green Line to Boylston, and ate pho in Chinatown. Boston surprisingly has very great pho restaurants.

Moon Prism Poptart: Looking Back at Sailormoon Fandom
Cute SailorMoon couple cosplay. My childhood friend and her husband are on the right.

My only other panel was SailorMoon fan panel so I snuck into the FUNiMation industry panel just in time to annouce the dub cast for Future Diary. Then I made may way up to the fan panel which a half hour before it started was already overflowing. Thankfully being a single person I managed to snag a seat.  Despite that, it was a great informative panel, comparing dubs to original Japanese, discussing what exactly is that “Moon Cycle” and rooms devoting solely to SailorMoon merchandise.

Who needs room service when you have a cupcake shop and a grilled cheese shop  within walking distance.

Sadly after that I said my goodbyes, caught a few more pictures, then heading back to the hotel for some dinner, packed up and rushed back to NYC like it had all been a daydream.

Speedwalking Through Sydney

Taking from Taronga Zoo.

My trip to Sydney can only be described as a whirlwind as we only stayed about 5 days – two of those days I was left to myself while my husband worked. We both considered it a vacation for our vacation because there was literally no agenda and much more relaxed.

First night was joining him for dinner with coworkers at a restaurant that a spectacular view of the Sydney Opera House. In all honest opinion while it was iconic, it was not impressive. The architecture was great and very interesting, but overall it was not as awestruck I had hoped. However perhaps we were too up close because it was much better at a distance whenever I traveled by ferry.

However right across from it, I was much more awestruck by the bridge. Which I was told you could even walk across the suspension part of it (for a price).

I learned my younger cousin’s first word was chocolate. He woke up just in time for this feast.

Sunday was meeting my two cousins and her family. We ate and a cute Thai place and then walked to Darling Harbor where we saw our first koala sighting in front of Wildlife Sydney. I was told this would be the closet I would get to a koala compared to the other parks (which I learn they were very true). For a mid-afternoon dessert we went to a Lindt Chocolate cafe where we had a smorgasborg of waffles, ice chocolate, hot chocolate, and two types of cake. After we said our goodbyes and tried to make the last hours of Wildlife Sydney – which due to two people in front taking a long time we decided to pass.

Monday I set out early for Taronga Zoo. A simply ferry ride to Circular Quay it was easy enough. My only mistake once I got there was that I failed to get the shuttle right as we docked the boat. I realized my mistake when I started walking into the park that was also on the island.

Thanks to the Sydney Guide I picked up at the airport (which I highly recommended if you’ve never been before), I got a discount on my admission ticket. The zoo was divided in two, three parts: Austrialian Walkabout, African plains, and Ocean. Much of the ocean exhibit was closed but between the two areas it still took half a day to explore.

For lunch I went to the cafe and got a burger. Which was more than just your average burger with pickles and onions. It also contained beets making it crunchy and delicious. Note: it’s best to hide your food or keep it closed as much as possible. White ibises are everywhere and they are like the seagulls back in the States. Not afraid of people and more than happy to eat the food off your plate when you’re not looking. I kept my fries in a closed bag and they still reached for it, even jumping on the table. Also feeding them will not make them go away and cause only more to come to you.

After my fight with an ibis, I went back to explore the shopping area more. I had seen a Kinokuniya in the area and decided to take a peek. Unlike the one in New York, this was very much a bookstore similar to Barnes and Nobles than a store that sold Japanese books. The reason I went was to not only check out an international branch but that they carried Chinese translated manga. I picked up a series called Peach Sisters for $20AUD.

Mocktail, sushi, and pork belly.

For dinner, I rejoined my husband for an izakaya style dinner.

Tuesday was really lax as I felt I couldn’t do too much in a day. So I got up early to head to the Sea Life Sydney Aquarium and bought a combo ticket for $75AUD (at the desk, it’s cheaper online)–this allowed me to visit Wildlife Sydney, Manly Sealife Sanctuary, and the aquarium for a significantly discounted price (At first I had one for the Sydney Eye, but didn’t have time, but they were able to easily exchange it).

And then after I checked out the Garden of Friendship – a garden that was a gift from China to Australia. For $6AUD it was pretty much a steal compared to the museums and park pricing.

With not much time left in the day, I decided to take a Sightseeing bus for $29AUD. I’ve never taking one in New York—for obvious reasons—but I would recommend it wherever you are if you are only going to be at your destination for less than a week. It not only gives you a sense of the city but also you see everything within a short amount of time. They provided me with a set of headphones to listen to the recorded audio tour that goes along with the bus route as well.

Pictures from Wildlife Sydney.

Manly Sanctuary

Wednesday was our last day, and we had a free day to spent together. Staying close we checked out Wildlife Sydney and then with some time left we took the ferry to Manly to visit the sealife sanctuary. We also learned there was a penguin colony underneath the wharf!

There is a potato underneath somewhere.

An early dinner consisted of spicy wonton noodles and an extremely stuffed baked potato. Then it was off to the airport and back home. I wish I was able to do more since on our last day I found two tea salons and a Ladurée cafe, but perhaps next time right?

One Week in Hong Kong

Hong Kong is similar to New York. Lots and lots of people, places to eat, places to see, and, of course, places to shop. I’ve been away for a week on a holiday before the summer convention season really begins. My parents were literally begging for my husband and I to make the trip (mainly to introduce him to the family), and thanks to some advanced planning we were able to take one week. His work took him to Sydney, so we got to go to Hong Kong as a pit stop.

Since HK is much more compact, we stayed at a hotel so as not to cramp up my aunt’s already tiny apartment. South Pacific Hotel was just blocks away from Times Square, a major shopping hub on Hong Kong Island. (For those unwares about the makeup of Hong Kong–there are three parts: Hong Kong Island, Kowloon, and New Terrioritories.)

Usually I will record food after food dishes, but after the week all the dishes started to blend together into basic platters of chicken, fish, and vegetable. Initially we had been both worried about my husband’s dietary restrictions but that was never a problem. Or rather the problem was being fed too much.

It’s hard to describe what to do in Hong Kong because there is so much or not much to do. It is more about living the Hong Kong experience of shopping, eating, walking, and perhaps more eating. There are must-see attractions like the Tian Tan Buddha and Victoria Peak, but you could also be very happy just walking around all the street markets scattered in Mong Kok and Wan Chai.

Armed with an Octopus Card, a main form of transportation fare (MTR), we were able to take everything from a tram to a ferry to the subway to double-decker buses. Supposedly now they are an accepted form of payment and select stores, like 7-Eleven etc. And thanks to Wi-Fi practically everywhere I was able to post snippets whenever I had the chance.

Since we had such a short time to spend, it was a flurry of traveling to all the must-see sites. First stop was the Tian Tan Buddha, a giant Buddha statue and the top of a a mountain peak where you need to take a cable car to get to it. It was a special occasion so we took one with a glass floor –it was not scary as you might think, but quite cool once you were over water and trees. If you ever plan to visit I recommend not wearing a full skirt (as the cable car and mountainous area tends to be more windy than you expect.

Monday we went to Ocean Park, the local amusement park/animal reserve.  It was the amusement park of my childhood and it has improved tremendously since the last time I went. With a lot more rides and attractions. Even the food was better.

Tuesday we went to Western Market and then Stanley Market/Park since the original plan of visiting Victoria Peak was cancelled due to cloudy weather. Stanley Market is a must-go if you want to go shopping with all kinds of clothing, wears, and souvenirs.

Wednesday involved walking up the longest series of escalators. An odd attraction but an attraction nonetheless. Unfortunately for us it was half under construction—we had to walk all the way up and take it partially the way down. Then off to Victoria Peak, the highest point in Hong Kong and like the Empire State Building, it needed a clear day in order to see the bird’s eye view of the city. You have the option of taking the bus or the tram. Thanks to our Octopus Card we were able to get to the highest viewpoint without paying extra tickets.

After we heading to see the Rubber Duck Project at Tsim Tsah Tsui and get something to eat. The Rubber Duck project was on my husband and I personal “must-see” – especially since it was only there for a month. A giant inflatable rubber duck that could only make you smile everytime you look at it. We even managed to get pictures with the smaller ducks along Harbour City’s ferry terminal. The key was to go towards the end of the exhibition, where there were less ducks being photographed.

Lunch was the usual, but we were able to finally try “fried milk,” a dish recommended by some friends of ours. It turned out to be a custard like mixture and deep-fried; think fried tres leches in popper-size.

For once, we were able to have some time to ourselves to explore the city at night. Or at least Causeway Bay. Being a vegetarian, my husband had a fixation on falafel and noticed BLT Burger had a falafel burger whenever we past by to take the MTR. Unbeknownst to me it was a New York based chain. If you’ve even been to LT burger it is brought to you by the same people but with a different flavor. I had a regular burger than seemingly got devoured right away. Either my stomach had been craving American style food or it was really good. Moist, juicy, and flavorful; I think I’ll stick with it being a very good burger.

Thursday was the big dinner of introducing my husband to all the family. Which was mostly a very informal affair, but involved a lot of food.

Friday was a scramble to get some last minute sightseeing in by going to the Wong Tai Sin Temple, a temple honoring Buddhism, Confucianism, and Taosim. Then it was just some last minute packing and shopping before we were on our way to Sydney.

Oh and then one more meal at the airport.

San Francisco: Tourist Time

Friday was our first free day together, where he took me to Blue Bottle Coffee, a West Coast coffee chain that is very precise about their coffee — using glass beakers, scientific thermometers. Each cup is treated like its own experiment and infused with various ingredients like berries, nuts for a more flavorful coffee.  If he had to drink coffee everyday it would have to be Blue Bottle.

View from the tower (you can barely see the Golden Gate Bridge peeking out from the horizon); Various art pieces I found interesting.

The we took a trip to the de Young Museum.  The art scene there is very different, more radical in my opinion or the artists seem to be inspired by found materials..  We were also recommended to go to the tower where you can get a nice 360-degree view of the park and everything else.. The day we went was pretty cloudy but still impressive. From there it was a short walk to the Japanese Tea Garden.

The Japanese Tea Garden is another must-see with all the sculptures, pagodas, and koi. You can even witness a tea ceremony if you make reservations.

Park Chow: Veggie Burger and Chicken BLT. Also a Blushing Dream (not pictured) to drink.

Before heading to Fisherman’s Wharf for the Aquarium we stopped for lunch at Park Chow.  A very homey, tavern-like bistro with a fireplaces upstairs and downstairs. Taking another light rail train to Fisherman’s Wharf for the Aquarium of the Bay, an aquarium devoted to all the animal life in the Bay.

Aquarium of the Bay: a sampling of what lives in the Bay.

Very tiny compared to say the Monterey Bay or New England Aquarium, this one did have two walk-thru tunnels and was very accessible for those without a car.  Initially we had thought about attending an after dark food truck rally but the walk was too far and we were unfamiliar with the area, so we ended up at Ghiradelli Square.  Home to the original factory, Ghiradelli now houses to various shops and at least several chocolate shops where we purchase half of our Christmas shopping.   

Cable Car souvenir tickets can be purchased at end of the line booths.

With our bags suddenly getting heavier we chose to get a cable car back ending the night with dinner at the Restaurant Collection, in Westfield Centre Mall.  We had thought about going to M.Y. China but apparently it was reservations-only, so we went to Cupola Pizzeria, an artisanal pizza place whose wait was shorter.

Cupola Pizzeria: Garlic & Bread Soup; Steamed Artichoke; Torn Pasta “Handkerchiefs”; Margherita Extra pizza.

What’s pretty cool was I gave they my mobile number and they were able to text us when our table was ready. As usual, we ordered way too much food or I did. Our appetizers were a steamed artichoke and garlic bread soup. The torn pasta was the favorite out of all of the things we ordered. The restaurant appeared to be very fancy but was also very down-to-earth; I saw well-behaved children coloring on the back of placemats. With a pizza that was again amazing and still homemade tasting, and pasta that was simply delicious. Full from dinner we headed back to the hotel to start again. But not before buying the last half of our presents at Lupicia, Japanese tea shop.

Saturday morning we waited long enough and had a breakfast of tea and Beard Papa.  This was a treat as New York used to have a bunch of these around the city; now you can only find one on the Upper West Side. We were meeting up with old friends in the Mission District but since we still had time to kill we walked around the Metreon area, even going on the carousel.

Mission Chinese: A Mexican Coke the size of my head and lots of tasty things to eat.

Mission Chinese originated in San Francisco in a family restaurant, eventually opening up its own location on the Lower East Side where the line is often out the door. I consider this real Asian fusion cusine as it’s taking ingredients not normally used but using Asian cooking techniques. They also make vegetarian/vegan versions of certain dishes for those who like animals as friends not food. 

Renegade Fair.

Having a bit of time on our hands before dinner we walked to the Renegade Craft Fair. Being a big crafter myself I wanted to check out the scene; also Twinkiechan was vending there and hoped for a picture opportunity.  Shockingly I saw two Lolitas there was well.

Forbidden rice; shumai; roasted portebello sliders
Mapo Tofu; Sweet and Sour Pork; Vegetarian Longevity Noodle Soup.

With reservations made on Opentable we were able to get into M.Y. China, Martin Yan’s signature restaurant. It looks like it was pitched as a high end version of classic, homemade Chinese food.  There was dim sum dishes, and other typical dishes like Mapo Tofu and Sweet and Sour Pork. Also more pseudo dishes like the mushroom sliders. Despite the frustration of making reservations, it was certainly worth it if you can afford the prices ($25-30 per person). And depending on the size of your party they will have chefs come to your table to watch them make hand pulled noodles.

Our last day was spent at the Dickens Fair, an annual holiday event in the Bay area. Think Dickens-era Renaissance Fair. With bustle skirts, top hats, and Whovians, it was certianly experience. Taking place at local convention center we took the BART to a shuttle to the Fair.  Perhaps if I was in Lolita I would fit more right in, and also sans company of my husband with fellow Lolitas instead. We still had fun walking around and every inch of the place. Each section was carved out of a Dickens novel and it was hard to distinguish attendees and the actors there. There was also a reenactment of the Christmas Carol throughout the convention space. Eventually I got tired of the whole scene, and it was slowly getting more crowded as the morning became the afternoon.  By the time we were hungry the food lines were too long, so we took the train back and walked around while we still could.

Imperial Tea Court: Dim Sum Sampler.

We walked all the way to Ferry Terminal for a small meal and tea to warm up before our red-eye flight back home.

There are a few thanks in order which are to the Bay Area Lolitas who were willing to meet up and whome I got to see. Also to Google Maps for being so precise, and being able to tell me the number of stops and roughly the time to get everywhere. That is a weird thanks but it was a lifesaver.  And of course, my husband allowing me to tag along.  San Francisco is not exactly New York City, but traveling to other places certainly make me appreciate the city more.