10. January 2018 19:01 by Rene Pallesen 0 Comments Vang Vieng - Watersports 10. January 2018 19:01 by Rene Pallesen | 0 Comments TweetAt Vang Vieng we did do some water sports. Again we were extremely lucky kayaking a section of the rShareAt Vang Vieng we did do some water sports. Again we were extremely lucky kayaking a section of the river back to Vang Vieng and having the entire river to ourselves.The three kids were all in a kayak with our guide sitting on top of their life jackets - fortunately they can all swim.Kim and I was in one Kayak and Sacha and Mavis in another.Just where we started out there was a rapid with water flowing over a large boulder but with plenty of flat water on the sides. Kim was little impressed when I headed straight into the rapids and with perfect skills paddled us through them...her being soaked and the kayak being full of water may have had something to do with it.She's later said that the kayaking trip was one of her favourite and most fun activities on the trip, so maybe she was somewhat impressed with my brilliant paddling skills!!Along the river are still some of the remains of the bars and zip lines - but all very quiet now. Approaching Vang Vieng we went past some really scenic locations with bungalows etc.The experience at the end got and all thumbs up!Another water activity that Mavis and I did was tubing through one of the caves. You essentially sit in an inflated car tyre and then pull yourself along a rope inside a cave. It was fun for the kids, however this place was packed with Koreans trying to do the same thing.Aiden initially didn't want to go, but I am proud that he eventually managed to get the courage to do so.We also went to one of the lagoons. There are a number of them and some of them are very popular. We organised with a driver to drive us to one of the less popular ones. It was still scenic and it had platforms of the trees to jump from and you could see why some travelers would have killed themselves jumping off them.There were also a couple of rafts which reminded me of the first time I went to Laos and paddles across a local river on a raft. It got on one of them in the lagoon and the whole thing literally sunk under me - I only just managed to get off in time before getting soaked.The second one was able to hold my weight and I took the boys for a little paddle.
9. January 2018 19:01 by Rene Pallesen 0 Comments A silent prayer - Laos 9. January 2018 19:01 by Rene Pallesen | 0 Comments TweetAt one of the caves in Laos there is this amazing Buddha statue inside the cave.I couldn't help but ShareAt one of the caves in Laos there is this amazing Buddha statue inside the cave.I couldn't help but notice how beautiful the diffused light was falling onto the statue itself and through the entrance to the cave. We were there all by ourselves and I asked Kim to sit and offer a little prayer in the ray of light coming in through the cave.I didn't bring a tripod with me to Laos, so everything had to be shot handheld which was tricky as there wasn't much light there.
8. January 2018 18:01 by Rene Pallesen 0 Comments Vang Vieng - Caves 8. January 2018 18:01 by Rene Pallesen | 0 Comments TweetIn Vang Vieng we also went to some caves. Again we were the only ones there - I don't know if this wShareIn Vang Vieng we also went to some caves. Again we were the only ones there - I don't know if this was just because no one else were interested or because we went there at a time when everyone else were doing other activities.The caves are in fairly pristine condition, they are dark, moist and other than descending a makeshift ladder walking through them gives a feeling of exploring the caves for the very first time. Some passages were really narrowAnd other parts of the caves were massive.Overall the caves are beautiful and again it was amazing having them to ourselves.
7. January 2018 21:01 by Rene Pallesen 0 Comments Tribes - Laos 7. January 2018 21:01 by Rene Pallesen | 0 Comments TweetThe tribes of Laos still exist although it is no longer as noticeable. They no longer wear their traShareThe tribes of Laos still exist although it is no longer as noticeable. They no longer wear their traditional costumes but it is possible to glimpse the occasional traditional head wear or dress in one of the shops.It is especially sad to see the Hmong tribal wear gone as worn below by Mavis and Kim. The Hmong traditionally lived in the mountains. The government has forced them down into the lowlands where they can be controlled and 'integrated' into the the rest of Laos.
6. January 2018 20:01 by Rene Pallesen 0 Comments Vang Vieng Countryside - Laos 6. January 2018 20:01 by Rene Pallesen | 0 Comments TweetOn the first day in Vang Vieng we hired a local guide to take us through the country side and some oShareOn the first day in Vang Vieng we hired a local guide to take us through the country side and some of the villages around Vang Vieng. Hiking through the countryside in Laos is partly magical and at the same time an eye opener. It is not until you get into the country side that you get a glimse of the real Laos and its people, the way of living and their beliefs.Walking into the first village a group of boys came walking towards us. One of the kids was holding his head with blood dripping down his face. The other boys were taking him home to his parents. I couldn't help but notice that there was a green substance smeared across the wound and asked our guide is he knew what it was. He went over to some bushes and plucked a couple of leaves and said that if you crush them then they will help stop the bleeding. This is when you realise that a lot of the plants in the villages serve a purpose as natural herbal medicine or for eating.The village was a HMong village and at one of the houses we spotted the little girl above standing in a door opening with her grand mother. There are very few of the traditional bamboo shacks still standing and instead being replaced with brick buildings.A bit further up the road we heard a sound. Someone was hitting a gong and chanting. Thinking it might be a monk we went to investigate. The sound was coming from one of the local houses. At the back of the house the family was in the process of preparing food, but we couldn't see where the sound was coming from. Our guide asked them and was told that they had a newborn (possibly sick) child and that the Shaman was in the house talking to the 'other world to' attract the good spirits and chase the evil spirits away.As we walked on we could see him through the opening of the door and I snapped the above photo which is one of my favourite photos of the trip.In the village people go about their normal life such as this woman removing lice from her daughters hair.As we walked on we had to walk through the local school. It happened to be recess and the kids in the smaller classes were outside playing. There was a small stand selling them lunches who also sold lollies, so Kim got the idea to spoil the kids with lollies - but also turned out to be a great opportunity for our kids to interact and see what a classroom in Laos looks like.The area is still very un-developed. Although there seems to be electricity, this is mainly used for lighting. Cooking is still done by collecting wood and done on wood fired stoves and people still wash their clothes in the rivers and streams.Although there are still a number of water buffaloes these are mainly used for eating along with any other non-human living animal - such as pigs, dogs, birds etc.It was very healthy for the boys to see where their food 'potentially' comes from and understand that this is part of life.The area is full of rice paddies, but these are now worked with mechanical tools rather than buffaloes.The government has built bridges across the large river to allow access to the villages.But the smaller streams have bamboo bridges - in this case wide enough to drive a motorbike across, others just a single bamboo to allow a person walk across.At the far village (Lao and not Hmong) there was a limestone cliff with a small cave in it. This was called elephant cave and inside there was a small shrine along with some bizarre images.The whole area is spectacular - I can only imagine what it would be like during rice planting season - yes it would be muddy but also stunningly beautiful.During this whole hike we saw no other travelers. Other than at the cave we didn't get a sense that there frequently came any groups through and I think the feedback from all of us was that this was one of the highlights of the trip - no adrenaline required.
5. January 2018 16:01 by Rene Pallesen 0 Comments Vang Vieng - Laos 5. January 2018 16:01 by Rene Pallesen | 0 Comments TweetVang Vieng is an interesting tourism destination in Laos that has undergone several iterations of reShareVang Vieng is an interesting tourism destination in Laos that has undergone several iterations of re-inventing itself.When I first visited for an overnight stopover it was a sleepy little town with maybe a handful of backpackers going tubing (more on that later). I also remember the deserted airport runway from the 'secret war' going through the sleepy little village (Lima site 6) and the stunning mountain scenery in the background. Other than that there wasn't much there.Ten years later my mum and dad visited the place and told me stories how the place had transformed. It had grown and was full of drunk backpackers with loud rave music and parties throughout the night. During the day they were floating down the river in car tubes again with beers and drinks in their hands.Then again about 5 years ago, Laos appeared in the Australian news media with stories of young backpackers breaking their necks doing somersaults off the tree branches on the river and lagoons and hitting the rocks. Stories of high highly available drugs were also emerged.The Lao government stepped in and closed the majority of the bars along the river, stopped the parties and the drugs and implemented a number of other safety restrictions. It worked, the parties stopped and the young party seeking backpackers fled.A new crowd has now moved in - this is bus loads of adrenaline seeking Koreans. They go there to go kayaking, zip lining, tubing, buggy riding etc. They eat at the Korean restaurants and stay at the same hotels, but otherwise mostly keep to themselves. This also means that some of the same old sleepy feeling has returned to this town. It also meant that is was easy (or just plain luck from our side) to avoid the tourists.The airstrip is still there, but I recon most visitors would walk across it and not notice and definitely wouldn't know the history behind the secret war in Laos, let alone the American involvement and the little airstrips around the place. It is a fascinating story and has very much shaped Laos into what it is today.The area is just absolutely stunning with steep limestone cliffs and rice paddies. I could easily have spent more time there taking photos in the surrounding area.
3. January 2018 21:01 by Rene Pallesen 0 Comments Pha That Luang - Laos 3. January 2018 21:01 by Rene Pallesen | 0 Comments TweetA must see in Vientiane is Pha That Luang - It is on every bank note in Laos and they are very proudShareA must see in Vientiane is Pha That Luang - It is on every bank note in Laos and they are very proud of it.Unlike Buddha Park it is surprisingly quiet when it comes to tourists. The majority of people visiting seems to be either Laos or Thai people offering a prayer. The correct way here is to get the insense and flowers and then walk clockwise around the Stuba on the inside of the covered corridor (mostly to keep out of the sun I assume).Although it is not particularly old (The original 1st century structure was mostly destroyed and has undergone a number of more recent restorations), it is stunningly beautiful and impressive in size.For me to get some of the panorama photos here with the selection of lenses I'd brought along I had to take multiple photos that I then had to stitch together.Outside there is a temple that is equally interesting, although nothing compared to further north in Luang Prabang.There are also street vendors selling cage birds that are supposed to bring good luck and prayers to anyone releasing them.
2. January 2018 10:01 by Rene Pallesen 0 Comments Buddha Park - Laos 2. January 2018 10:01 by Rene Pallesen | 0 Comments TweetOne of the sights we wanted to visit was Buddha Park outside Vientiane (close to the border crossingShareOne of the sights we wanted to visit was Buddha Park outside Vientiane (close to the border crossing back into Thailand).Trying to figure out the most comfortable way to get there we settled on taking the local bus. There aren't any taxis as such in Vientiane and we weren't keen taking a tuk-tuk for 30 kilometers. Most of the tuk-tuks are in an extremely poor shape with failing brakes, wobbling wheels and thick smoke coming out of the exhaust pipes. They are perfectly fine for shorter trips inside the city (such as hotel to bus station), but not recommended for longer trips.The bus turned out to be easy to find and we were early enough to all get a seat. The bus was later packed with passengers going to Thailand and it would have been tough to stand up for the one hour bus ride.The bus is also really convenient in that it stops right outside Buddha Park which is the last stop before the bus turns around and heads back to Vientiane. Buddha Park itself was apparently established by a Monk building the statues for religious purposes as education of his religious beliefs. It is actually a nice little area and quite interesting with lots of (to us) weird statues showing bizarre things.The most obvious is the massive 'pumpkin' at the entrance that you can climb. Each level inside the the sculpture itself represents hell, earth and sky.The entrance is a head with a clock above it - meaning swallowed up by time?There is also a massive reclining buddha.And my favourite was the large centre sculpture carrying the body of a woman...no idea what this is supposed to represent.
2. January 2018 09:01 by Rene Pallesen 0 Comments Vientiane - Laos 2. January 2018 09:01 by Rene Pallesen | 0 Comments TweetVientiane is no longer the sleepy capital city it used to be. It is hustling and bustling with peoplShareVientiane is no longer the sleepy capital city it used to be. It is hustling and bustling with people, cars, motorbikes and shops everywhere.The once neglected colonial buildings have all been renovated and the red dust flying everywhere is long gone as the roads have been paved. In the outskirts of the city high-rise office towers have started shooting up and I think that given another decade this city will look like any other East Asian capital. The most striking difference was the banks of the Mekong River. Last time I was there it was really just a dirty path and following it north long enough there would be a string of wooden shacks with local restaurants that would serve some beautiful local dishes, fish and other seafood. The water then would come right up to the bank and the boats could pull up and during the day the local kids would jump from the trees and swim in the river. The old path has been replaced by a modern walk way (which actually is really nice) and the shacks have been replaced by some bars closer to the centre catering more for a western clientel - still with some nice seafood on the menu. The water of the Mekon has receeded and there is now a massive sand bank moving the river 2-300 meter back from the city.Although Vientiane doesn't have a massive amount of things to see, it is definitely worth a visit. The Wats are beautiful and the vertical runway (local Arc de Triumpe - called so because they used cement intended for building an airport) is worth the climb to get a view of the city (and the main road which used to be the only paved road). There is certainly plenty to do for a couple of days.About 100 meters from the Arc down a side street we had what was probably the best noodle soup of the whole trip. It was just a local mum, dad and grandma run place and it met the critia of being busy having locals eating there which means that it is likely that the food is good and relative fresh.Even with it being in the middle of the city there was no access to gas or running water, so everything was cooked over wood fired stoves with the broth for the soups likely cooking overnight and the rest cooked fresh on the spot.On the first afternoon we were sitting in a local coffee place and I started speaking to the girl working there. I asked her for local places to eat great authentic Lao food - not touristy. She recommended a place up neat That Dam (the black stuba) called Soukvinam and she showed me some photos. It looked more like a fine dining place, but the food looked delicious so we decided to give it a go. It was a quiet place with a nice ambience. We were sitting outside in the courtyard which was ideal with the kids. We ordered a lot of food sticking to specialties we had never tried before such as stuffed frogs, fermented fish eggs etc. and it was all really nice.By Lao standards it probably wasn't cheap, but for the whole group of us the entire meal ended up costing approximately $100 AUD. On that 'note' it is easy to be an instant millionaire as a foreigner in Laos - change $150 Australian dollars you are there.We also celebrated New Years Even in Vientiane which was fairly low key with a couple of late night drinks.
1. January 2018 21:01 by Rene Pallesen 0 Comments Returning to Laos 1. January 2018 21:01 by Rene Pallesen | 0 Comments TweetReturning to Laos ShareThis year our holiday was going to a country in South East Asia called to the Laos with the boys and some close friends. I went there almost 20 years ago. I had just migrated to Australia and was going on my first holiday. Laos which had only just been opened up by the communist regime, was very much undeveloped after two decades of isolation and happened to be one of the first places I visited in Asia and it was a country that I immediately fell in love with. It wasn’t the things to see and do in the country that I fell in love with - but the people. I loved the smiles, how welcoming everyone was, and I especially loved the joy of the dirty kids playing in the streets. Everyone was living at very simple lifestyle and yet everyone had what they needed and were happy. Back then I had no firm plans, but made them up as I went along. I traveled light, caught local transport, I met locals and other travelers along the way on a budget of less than $10/day, and still remember the sticky rice sold to passengers when passing through towns. I had some incredible experiences in an amazing country. I managed to have a full busload full of locals break down laughing from me trying to read up sentences from my little pocket Lao phrase book. Through this I was invited to visit families and join their local celebrations through festive events. The only local I met up in Northern Laos who could English was a girl working for an NGO. She invited me to join her visits to remote local villages where we had to cross the rivers on bamboo rafts to get to them and experienced the local dragon boat racing. Since this distant time I had heard and lots about the country from other travelers including my Mum and Dad who visited the country ten years ago. I heard how the country had changed and how mass tourism had ruined the experience. I had heard about the young backpacker rave parties, the drugs and adrenaline junkies in Vang Vieng. I heard Perfect Moments Photography | A Rene Pallesen Journal Blog Portfolio Packages Contact About Home 28. December 2007 09:56 by Rene Pallesen 0 Comments Jervis Bay 28. December 2007 09:56 by Rene Pallesen | 0 Comments Tweetjervis bayShareAfter Christmas Eve we went a couple of days to Jervis Bay. Jervis Bay is about 3-4 hours drive south of Sydney and is not part of New South Wales, but belongs to ACT (Australian Capital Territory, Canberra). Hyams beach at Jervis has got a reputation of having the whitest sand in the world. The house we had rented was right on the beach so it was easy to go for a swim. Unfortunately the water was quite cold, so Kim and I instead opted for a trip to the local golf course. In the morning we went fishing and although we did catch a few fish they were all too small to keep. The most annoying was that we kept catching stingrays. Click here to download video of fishing at Jervis Bay #1 Click here to download video of fishing at Jervis Bay #2 I know that the area has got a lot of Port Jackson sharks and on the beaches we found a lot of shark eggs. In the evenings we played Mah Jong and 21. I decided to stay out of the Mah Jong game until I've got a better grasp of how it is played (some of the numbers on the bricks are in Chinese and it therefore took too long time to compute and I felt it was a disadvantage). I had a lucky night in 21 and won $20. Click here to see more photos from Jervis Bay 25. December 2007 09:47 by Rene Pallesen 0 Comments Christmas Eve and Day 25. December 2007 09:47 by Rene Pallesen | 0 Comments Tweetchristmas eve and dayShareThe Australians celebrate Christmas on the 25th December where we in Denmark celebrate it on the 24th in the evening. I still like to celebrate on the 24th and it is the day of the year where I most miss family (and the only day of the year where I miss the cold in Denmark).Most of my friends were either out of town or have kids and therefore not very mobile on this evening so this year I decided that it should just be Kim and myself.I cooked the traditional Christmas dinner with duck and ris-a-la-mande and we had a very nice evening.In the morning next day we went over to Kims family for lunch and there was a lot of people and kids there. Again this year I took on the duty of being Santa's local ambassador and hand out presents to the children...all good fun. 22. December 2007 12:28 by Rene Pallesen 0 Comments Climbing at Mt Keira - Wetting my pants 22. December 2007 12:28 by Rene Pallesen | 0 Comments Tweetclimbing at mt keira wetting my pantsShare Last weekend Andy, May and myself went climbing at Mt keira near woolongong south of Sydney. May had never really done any outdoor climbing before and Keira is a good place to go and try your first lead climb. The weather forecast didn't look promising but we decided to go there anyway as in our experience the forecasts are never very accurate here. Besides it said that there was a chance of one or two showers in the afternoon. As soon as we arrived to the cliffs in the morning we started feeling the first few drops. The rocks were still dry so we decided to put up an easy route anyway. Once we finished it was raining more steadily and the rocks started getting slippery. There was a climb in the corner that was still dry so we decided to quickly also do this. And afterwards we put up a top rope on a climb that also still was dry. Before we got onto it it was raining heavily and there was a storm with lots of lightening approaching. > Click here to download video After a couple of not very motivated (and wet) attempts on the climb I volunteered to clean up the climb. As I approached the top the water was coming down like from a waterfall and by the time I had cleaned up the anchors I was drenched (and yes...my pants were very wet). Climbing wise a really disappointing day...but we still had fun. 6. December 2007 06:01 by Rene Pallesen 0 Comments Tokyo - Having a whale of a time 6. December 2007 06:01 by Rene Pallesen | 0 Comments Tweettokyo having a whale of a timeShareThis week I am in Tokyo for work visiting a couple of partners and also giving them some training on some of our internal solutions that they would like to sell. I love visiting Tokyo...it is like Disney land and everything is just so slightly different. Like for instance the toilets have all the buttons on the side. Yesterday I saw one with a volume control and a "flush noise" button. I couldn't help pressing it...and yes the toilet did make very realistic sounding flushing sounds. I am unsure under what circumstances the sounds can be useful...another mystery that I may be able to solve one day.In the hotel I also tried all the other buttons and it is kind of cool with all the sprinkling water (heated to body temperature), but I still haven't found the button for the 'but' dryer. Click here to see video of Tokyo Square in Shibuya We visited one of our partners customer service centre and that was like watching a movie. They had big wall-to-wall screen showing that status of all the various sites, latest news tv, weather forecasts...or anything else that could be relevant to them running their operations. The walls were liquid crystal walls and by the flick of a button they could make the whole wall transparent and the next minute they would have the latest status projected onto the walls instead...unfortunately they wouldn't allow me to take a photo. Masaru and I also went to a whale restaurant in Shibuya...we tried Whale Sashimi, Whale Tempura, Whale Skin, Whale Bacon, Whale tongue, Whale Beef and Whale soup (I only ate it for Scientific Purposes). It was all very delicious and the Whale Sashimi (raw whale meat) was definitely my favourite. For lunch today I had a really nice baby clam soup...very unusual and very nice. In general food is really nice and there are some unusual places that specialise in their small niche markets...for instance the lunch place that specialises in 'Lemon Detox lunches'. Compared to the food in Sydney this is a magnitude better. The hotel I stay at is in Shibuya which is the area in Tokyo that is very famous with all the lights and screens...it is a very hip area where all the teenagers are wearing the latest fashion and have funny hair. My room is a lot bigger than the one I stayed in last time I was in Tokyo...in this one you can actually walk around the bed and it has got all the features you would normally expect from a western hotel room. And they serve a really nice bacon for breakfast...I bet it is Danish bacon. We also took the peak hour train in the morning...man those trains are fast and they are packed so tight that it is impossible to move let alone raise your arms. Being in Tokyo also means very long working hours. People here start working around 9am in the morning and seldom leave work until after 9pm. It is still the musical chairs with meeting rooms, the deadly silence in the offices, hot working environments etc. One evening we went out with our partners...which was a big introduction to japanese customs. We went out for a late dinner after work a big group of us and when they have dinner then a lot of drinks were served. This was a chinese restaurant so we were drinking some chinese type of wine that tasted like bitter Kahlua. After dinner we went to this drinking place which was really weird (and slightly uncomfortable but interesting). They pay an entry fee of around 3000 Yen ($30 AUD) and you then get to sit down with a girl that serves you drinks and who you can have conversation with (and conversation only).You cannot choose the girl and I guess this is the modern form of the Geisha...and a cheaper way of talking about your problems at work or with your wife than visiting a psychologist.I really like visiting Tokyo...but I don't think I could live there (too controlled). It is really interesting to visit especially in a working capacity as you see all the funny differences in lifestyle, work, objects and opinions. Most of the time it is a really good laugh...like when one of the guys asked if he could take a picture of me because he told his wife that he was working with a foreigner that looks like Tom Cruise (I told him that Tom is a full head shorter then I am).We had an earthquake while I was there. The whole building started swaying from side to side...I was looking at the Japanese guys are they were calm so I thought that there was no reason to panic. Apparently it happens all the time there. Click here to see more photos from TokyoHere is some more photos from the trip. 1. December 2007 01:23 by Rene Pallesen 0 Comments Hunter Valley December 1. December 2007 01:23 by Rene Pallesen | 0 Comments Tweethunter valley decemberShare Before my trip to Tokyo and before Christmas we decided to go to the Hunter Valley to stock up on good wines (We buy them now cheap and drink them in 5-10 years time when they would be really expensive). Hunter Valley is about 2 hours drive North of Sydney and it had got about 200 Vinyards you can visit for wine tasting and then buy the wines straight from the cellar. We went there with a couple of Kims friends and Kim and I bought a couple of cases of wine together. Everything in the Valley was nice ang green due to a lot of rain in the area lately. Click here to see more photos from Hunter Valley 21. November 2007 01:50 by Rene Pallesen 0 Comments Kayaking at Woy Woy 21. November 2007 01:50 by Rene Pallesen | 0 Comments Tweetkayaking at voy voyShareWhen Kim left Epicor she got a gift certificate to go Kayaking at Woy Woy, so this weekend we headed up there together with Mike and his wife Helen.Both Kim and I have done some kayaking before but it was a new experience for Helen. We paddled up through some of the inland waters in Brisbane Waters near Woy Woy and afterwards we stopped at the fisherman's wharf for some really nice seafood. 29. October 2007 02:57 by Rene Pallesen 0 Comments Berowra, Narrabeen Slabs & Australian Wildlife 29. October 2007 02:57 by Rene Pallesen | 0 Comments Tweetberowra narrabeen slabs australian wildlifeShareOne of the things about living in Australia is that you are exposed to a lot of creepy crawly stuff. In the urban jungle you don't really notice, but once you come a bit closer to nature then you cannot avoid seeing some of the insects etc. This is especially true when we go climbing. The last couple of weeks Andy and I have been exposed to a couple more creeps than we usually see. The last couple of weeks Andy and I have been climbing in the Sydney area. Last weekend we went up to Berowra again and had a generally pleasant day had it not been for the brown snake. On the last climb of the day we decided to try this climb that none of us had done before, but because of the protection we decided to top rope it. In the guide book the description reads: Savage Cabbage 8m 19Up thin crack then tricky moves left to main crack. Follow this (take care with pro) to new lower off. Often dirty and sometimes inhabited by a (friendly) brown snake.This was warning enough and as a safety precaution we checked the holes at the bottom of the climb and didn't see anything suspicious. He started climbing and about 2 metres up he stuck his had into one of the pockets. He then decided to take a peek to see if there was anything in there and very quickly pulled his stand out shouting "Fu...a snake". Fortunately he hadn't been bitten or I would have had to call him a helicopter....again. Wikipedia says the following about the snake:Brown snakes are easily alarmed and may bite if approached closely, handled or threatened. The Eastern brown snake is the most toxic member of the genus and is the second most toxic land snake in the world. I don't think we'll be jumping onto that climb anytime soon. This weekend we decided instead to go to Narrabeen slaps as we hadn't been there for a while and it is easily accessible (15 minutes drive from home). It is a nice selection of semi difficult slabs along the Wakehurst parkway (almost rain forest). Generally when climbing in Sydney you see many webs from the funnel webs and I also saw at least one at Narrabeen. And, when we go to other climbing areas then there are always multiple holes in the rocks where you can see the funnel shaped webs. I happen to hate spiders and always fear that I will poke my fingers into a funnel web. I have only seen a live (I think) funnel web once and that was in Nowra on the bottom of a pond of water (people generally check their swimming pools for funnel webs before swimming as they can stay below the surface for ages), I saw a tiny scorpion on the floor of the cooking area in Nowra on the same trip. Wikipedia says:Although they are rather small, they should not be handled without taking substantial precautions, because their fangs have been known to penetrate fingernails and soft shoes, resulting in dangerous bites. Funnel-webs are probably one of the three most dangerous spiders in the world and are regarded by some to be the most dangerous. While Andy was belaying me he saw a redback spider crawl across the rope back and squashed it under his feet. He told me he had to stomp on it several times before it died. Wikipedia says:The redback spider is a potentially dangerous spider native to Australia. It resembles a Black widow spider. Redbacks, along with funnel-web spiders, are the most dangerous spiders in Australia. Most Australians dislike the redback spider, thanks in part to the frequency with which it is encountered in the environs of human habitations. Also, the crag is generally infested with mosquitoes, ticks and on this day we also had the pleasure of a big fat Tiger Leech which had had a feast on Andy's big toe so it started bleeding heavily as we left the crag (but the leech lived to see another day). We saw it earlier on Andy's sandals but flicked it off...only later did we discover that it had been sucking blood from him. 16. October 2007 10:21 by Rene Pallesen 0 Comments Brampton Island 2007 16. October 2007 10:21 by Rene Pallesen | 0 Comments Tweetbrampton island 2007ShareKim finished her job at Epicor this Monday and we therefore decided to go somewhere for an extended weekend before she starts any new adventures. Our first choice was to to go Samoa, but because of school holidays the hotels and flights were booked the days we wanted to go. Instead we settled on going to Brampton Island in the Whitsundays about 2000km North of Sydney. It was a long flight up there, first to Brisbane, then on to Mackay and from there continue with a small light aircraft to Brampton Island itself. Here is a photo of the island from the aircraft. Click here to see a video of Brampton Island from the aircraft. The island is beautiful and there is only one resort on the island accomodating a maximum of 200 guests. Because of all the flights to get there it means that it is a perfect couples destination as there were no kids making noise there (according to Kenneth kids families won't go unless it is a direct flight). The Island has got a number of really nice remote beaches that are empty and where one can get up to all sorts of mischief. There is also a small 6 hole par 3 golf course as well as archery range, spa and a couple of different pools etc. Our intention for the weekend wasn't really to be very active, but really to just relax and have a nice time together. On the first day we walked around the whole island (8km) and went for a swim along the way at a beach on the other side of the island that we had all to ourselves. We managed to get a bit of a sunburn both of us so the next day we stayed in the shade. On one of the other days we got a picnic pamper and found another beach where we could relax, swim and enjoy ourselves without anyone else around. The water was crystal clear and we could see fish and stingrays swimming around in it and although we had bought our snorkeling gear we never got around to using it.Here is a photo of Kim on the beach. And...click here to see a video of Kim in the water. Both of us had a very memorable time on the beaches.Most of the other guests were just spending their time in the resort itself and when it was too hot to go anywhere we also spent the time in the resort relaxing in the shade sipping cocktails. The only thing that was a bit disappointing was that the resort had all these nice catamarans and sailboards that were free to use, but because of lack of experience of the people working on the resort they wouldn't let anyone sail them if there was any wind whatsoever (really...what's the point!?!?). In the evening there was various forms of entertainment. Especially this one man band was really good, but most of the other entertainment was pretty average as the staff to be honest had little to no clue whatsoever. Click here to see more photos from Brampton Island 17. September 2007 10:17 by Rene Pallesen 0 Comments Fish Market & The Coast Colf Club 17. September 2007 10:17 by Rene Pallesen | 0 Comments Tweetfish market the coast colf clubShareThis Sunday we went to the fish market in Sydney with one of Kims colleagues from Singapore (who also happens to be Danish) and his Singaporean girlfriend for Lunch. The Seafood at the fish market is very fresh and nice. You can go to all these small seafood stalls and buy various seafood such as various types of Sashimi, Sushi, Lobster, Abalone, Scallops, Calamari and Balmain bugs. Kim and I shared a large seafood basket with different types of seafood as well as a small box of Sashimi. Afterwards we took Michael to The Coast Golf Club while Caroline went to do some retail therapy in Paddington. We only played 8 holes as we had to leave at 5pm to be at Kims sister at 6pm for her youngest sisters birthday.I took a really cool and funny video of Kim almost making par on one of the holes. Click here to download the video of Kim 10. September 2007 05:48 by Rene Pallesen 0 Comments Holland September 2007 10. September 2007 05:48 by Rene Pallesen | 0 Comments Tweetholland september 2007Share In early September I again went a week to Holland. The purpose of the trip this time was a combination of team building, create common processes and training. The company is working on getting everyone ECM (Electronic Content Management) certified. Since I just got back from Holland a couple of months ago I decided to just quickly fly in Sunday afternoon and then return Saturday morning. I really don't like flying through London Heathrow airport. They always loose my luggage there and every time it takes 1-3 days before it eventually arrives. My flight was delayed so as I expected I missed my flight to Amsterdam. I asked them to book me onto the next available flight where my luggage also would have a chance to make it.When the flight boarded I checked with the staff to make sure that my luggage had made it...it hadn't :-(As I had plenty of time I decided it would be better for me to de-board the flight and then try and catch the next flight hoping that my luggage then would make it...which I then confirmed it did when I boarded. Heathrow is the only airport in the world where I consistently have this problem. They need at least 3 hours between the flight to have a chance of transferring the luggage. Next time I'll check what options I have to fly through Frankfurt instead. Click here to see more photos from: Holland << Older posts Newer posts >> Newer posts12...737475767778798081...9293Older posts SearchInclude comments in search Newsletter Get notified when a new post is published. Enter your e-mail Thank you Perfect Moments Photography | A Rene Pallesen Journal Blog Portfolio Packages Contact About Home 8. July 2015 09:07 by Rene Pallesen 0 Comments Phuket - Muay Thai 8. July 2015 09:07 by Rene Pallesen | 0 Comments TweetOne evening I went to see Thai boxing. I asked the rest of the family if anyone wanted to join me, bShareOne evening I went to see Thai boxing or Muay Thai as it is called locally. I asked the rest of the family if anyone wanted to join me, but they all said no (it is the national sport of Thailand). I had been once before long time ago in Bangkok and wanted to experience it again.I decided to pay the bit extra and get a VIP seat right next to the ring and that was definitely worth the extra money.There were 8 fights that evening. The first fight was between two kids around 11 years old. Especially the kid in black shorts was very strong and was dominating the fight throughout.The second fight was between two older teenagers. Again the kid in black was dominating the match.The third fight was between to women, a Canadian and a Thai. The canadian girl looked very relaxed and was definitely ready to fight. The Thai girl had no chance against her and the match ended in knockout.Before each fight they go through this unique dance ritual.I was privileged to sit next to one of the judges who has happy to talk, so between each round I could ask him questions about the scoring system which is rather confusing.The 4th match was between a French and a Thai. The foreigners are really dominating this sport now and the Thai's were generally struggling.As with all the fights wit foreigners this fight also ended in a knockout.The 5th fight was back to two Thais fighting.One of the last fights was between a brazilian and a Thai. When walking into the ring you could tell that the brazil was very strong.He started by kicking the Thai in the chest and then punched him in the face.The fight lasted less than a minute before a knockout.The last fight was more in the heavyweight class, again between a brazilian and a Thai.This fight was full of power and again it ended up in knockout.After the fights I happened see the winners lining up out the back. I managed to get a photo with a couple of them....yeah, I look really convincing there.This evening was definitely one of my highlights from the trip and if we were going back then I would probably go again. The atmosphere is amazing and if the fighters are good then the experience is phenomenal. 6. July 2015 07:07 by Rene Pallesen 0 Comments Phuket - Island trip 6. July 2015 07:07 by Rene Pallesen | 0 Comments TweetOne morning Kim booked a trip out to some of the smaller islands of Phuket.The trip was in a large sShareOne morning Kim booked a trip out to some of the smaller islands of Phuket.The trip was in a large speed boat and initially the family didn't want to go because they were worried about getting seasick, but eventually they changed their minds.The boys loved the experience and were very proud wearing their life jackets.On the island we could feed the fish from the beach.And there was time to play in the water for the boys (and a bit of snorkeling for me).It is also good to see that they are still using their long tail boats for traditional fishing. 5. July 2015 12:07 by Rene Pallesen 0 Comments Phuket - Baby elephant 5. July 2015 12:07 by Rene Pallesen | 0 Comments TweetAfter visiting the big Buddha we stopped to feed a baby elephant.The kids were a little overwhelmed ShareAfter visiting the big Buddha we stopped to feed a baby elephant.The kids were a little overwhelmed by its trunk, but fun nevertheless. 4. July 2015 14:07 by Rene Pallesen 0 Comments Phuket - Big Buddha 4. July 2015 14:07 by Rene Pallesen | 0 Comments TweetAfter Wat Chalong we went up to see the Big Buddha on top of a big hill.The Buddha itself is 45 metrShareAfter Wat Chalong we went up to see the Big Buddha on top of a big hill.The Buddha itself is 45 metres tall and is very impressive.They have been building there for the past 10 years and will probably be building for at least another 10.While there we also did a little prayer for Kim's mum.And Aiden being his cheeky self did the 3 monkeys pose.And they loved the big gongs (which you actually rub rather than gong).Surprisingly they also in a far corner of the compound had some indian gods, but maybe not so surprising since we were close to Myanmar with a large indian based population (lots of Myanmar people in Phuket). 3. July 2015 13:07 by Rene Pallesen 0 Comments Phuket - Wat Chalong 3. July 2015 13:07 by Rene Pallesen | 0 Comments TweetOne morning we ventured out to see one of the islands biggest temples, the Wat Chalong.It is a magniShareOne morning we ventured out to see one of the islands biggest temples, the Wat Chalong.It is a magnificent temple with lots to see and it was a pity that the rest of the family didn't want to join us.The temple contains what is said to be a bone fragment of buddha.And the temple itself is full of golden buddhas.Outside there are some elephant sculptures and across from that an areas where they fire of ceremonial fireworks which really scared the boys (as seen of Lucas face). 2. July 2015 13:07 by Rene Pallesen 0 Comments Phuket - Food 2. July 2015 13:07 by Rene Pallesen | 0 Comments TweetThe food in Thailand is delicious.There are so many variations that we cannot get at home and they dShareThe food in Thailand is delicious.There are so many variations that we cannot get at home and they don't add all that sugar.Lucas was a bit tired after a morning at the beach at this one.On KC's birthday we went to an ocean front seafood place.I don't think the family liked the food in Thailand much though, because they wanted to eat japanese and wanted air conditioned restaurants even though the evenings generally were a bit cooler. 1. July 2015 13:07 by Rene Pallesen 0 Comments Phuket - Various 1. July 2015 13:07 by Rene Pallesen | 0 Comments TweetHere are some various photos that I haven't posted earlier.Here is one of a jumpshot with Kim and I ShareHere are some various photos that I haven't posted earlier.Here is one of a jumpshot with Kim and I in front of the big Buddha.Down at the beach there was this artificial wave surfing centre. 1. July 2015 13:07 by Rene Pallesen 0 Comments Phuket - Shopping 1. July 2015 13:07 by Rene Pallesen | 0 Comments TweetThe family did lots of shopping.Kim's family had suits and shirts made and the girls bought lots of ShareThe family did lots of shopping.Kim's family had suits and shirts made and the girls bought lots of shoes.We also found some great tshirts for the kids.Although the kids were more interested in the ice cream. 1. July 2015 12:07 by Rene Pallesen 0 Comments Phuket - fruits 1. July 2015 12:07 by Rene Pallesen | 0 Comments TweetIt is fruit season at the moment so we bought lots of really delicious fruits such as Rambutans, manShareIt is fruit season at the moment so we bought lots of really delicious fruits such as Rambutans, mangosteens, mangoes, jack fruit etc. 30. June 2015 13:07 by Rene Pallesen 0 Comments Phuket - Street life 30. June 2015 13:07 by Rene Pallesen | 0 Comments TweetThe street life in Thailand is as it always have been with lots of food stalls and other shops.PetroShareThe street life in Thailand is as it always have been with lots of food stalls and other shops. Perfect Moments Photography | A Rene Pallesen Journal Blog Portfolio Packages Contact About Home 2. April 2016 22:04 by Admin 0 Comments Eastertrip Oberon 2. April 2016 22:04 by Admin | 0 Comments TweetThis Easter we rented a small cabin out at Oberon. It was a beautiful little place on top of a hill ShareThis Easter we rented a small cabin out at Oberon. It was a beautiful little place on top of a hill with a beautiful view.The place was full of cattle, kangaroos and wombat holes (with wombats in them).Along the way we stopped at Wentworth Falls.We also went to Jenolan Caves one day.And afterwards Kanangra walls (Lucas never made the 200m walk there...too tired from all the walking. Pity, because it was the perfect spot and light for a family photo).Next day we tried going to the glow worm tunnel, but the easter crowds made us turn back once we approached the car park. So instead we went up to Blackheath to have a nice lunch and enjoy some of the lookouts.Later I tried another family photo at the cabin...very windy.Overall a nice trip and the boys had a lot of fun. 2. April 2016 21:04 by Admin 0 Comments Eastershow 2016 2. April 2016 21:04 by Admin | 0 Comments TweetAgain this year we went to the Easter Show the entertainment quarter. As usual it was great fun for ShareAgain this year we went to the Easter Show the entertainment quarter. As usual it was great fun for the kids.Especially Lucas had a blast now that he is old enough to participate. 2. April 2016 19:04 by Admin 0 Comments Australia Day - Citizenship 2. April 2016 19:04 by Admin | 0 Comments TweetAustralia day was a very special day this year. I have been living in Australia for over 17 years anShareAustralia day was a very special day this year. I have been living in Australia for over 17 years and have been waiting for the moment Denmark would accept dual citizenship.Although I have been been calling Australia my home for a long time I am also a Dane and didn't want to give this up.I actually thought that it would never happen, but finally in late 2015 the law was finally changed and I lodged my Australian application immediately. On Australian day I took the pledge and can officially call myself an Australian now.Kim and the boys, KA and Aaron as well a few friends attended the ceremony. I felt very proud and was very honoured.And I was pampered with Australia day gifts. 7. January 2016 18:01 by Rene Pallesen 0 Comments Hunter Valley Christmas 2015 7. January 2016 18:01 by Rene Pallesen | 0 Comments TweetBetween Christmas and New year we went to the Hunter Valley with Sasha and his family.We stayed overShareBetween Christmas and New year we went to the Hunter Valley with Sasha and his family.We stayed overnight in a cabin in Lovedale.During the day we tasted wines at the various wineries (found some good ones).The kids also loved playing at the cabin in the evenings. 7. January 2016 18:01 by Rene Pallesen 0 Comments Christmas 2015 7. January 2016 18:01 by Rene Pallesen | 0 Comments TweetThis year we decided not to celebrate on the eve of the 24 and just stick with the 25th at KC's placShareThis year we decided not to celebrate on the eve of the 24 and just stick with the 25th at KC's place (too much cooking otherwise). I was responsible for the Christmas ham (with limited success).It was a relaxing day and the kids were very exited about their presents. 16. December 2015 13:12 by Rene Pallesen 0 Comments Silliness 16. December 2015 13:12 by Rene Pallesen | 0 Comments TweetSometimes when I am setting up for a photo especially Aiden likes to jump in a get silly.It is a gooShareSometimes when I am setting up for a photo especially Aiden likes to jump in a get silly.It is a good way to test the lighting and sometimes I managed to get a 'keeper' such as this one from a few weeks back. 16. December 2015 12:12 by Rene Pallesen 0 Comments Christmas family photo 2015 16. December 2015 12:12 by Rene Pallesen | 0 Comments TweetIt is almost Christmas and I've just completed our annual family Christmas photo and this is the finShareIt is almost Christmas and I've just completed our annual family Christmas photo and this is the final version.It was an interesting process getting to this photo this year. Last year we did a photo in the kitchen of us baking a cake, but this years photo has so many more elements to it.The idea came from a combination of Kim and my ideas. Kim wanted to do a photo of the boys through a crystal ball. I actually bought the crystal ball right after Christmas last year with this year in mind.We did a test in front of the tree in early December which was reasonably okay, but Kim didn't like the feel to it. She wanted more snow (pretty ambitious on a summers day here in Sydney Australia).My idea for our family photo was based on me wanting to do a story of us as a family out in a snow storm 'Looking for Santa'. I had purchased a bag of artificial snow and a Christmas cape a few months back and we had some lanterns downstairs so I pretty much had all the components in place for the shoot.I knew I had to do it as a composite with the boys as there was no way that I would be able to get the photo with all four of us at once. We did the photo over a couple of days, on the first evening (after the kids had gone to bed) I took the one of Kim and myself holding the lantern. Once I had this photo I could show it to Aiden and Lucas so that they knew what we needed them to do (Lucas just had to copy Aiden).I had Gaffa taped markers on the floor so everyone would know where they were supposed t Perfect Moments Photography | A Rene Pallesen Journal Blog Portfolio Packages Contact About Home 10. September 2007 05:39 by Rene Pallesen 0 Comments Birthday Party 10. September 2007 05:39 by Rene Pallesen | 0 Comments Tweetbirthday partyShare Because Kim and I was busy travelling we never really managed to hold a birthday party where friends were invited along. So, in mid august we held a small party celebrating Kim's, Luke's and My birthday. Kim and Luke has got birthday on the same day and I was out travelling at that time, and on my birthday we went skiing in the Snowy Mountains. It was a fun evening at a nice Thai restaurant in North Sydney. Click here to see more pictures from: Birthday party 11. August 2007 10:03 by Rene Pallesen 0 Comments The Gold Coast - Microsoft TechEd 11. August 2007 10:03 by Rene Pallesen | 0 Comments Tweetthe golf coast microsoft techedShareThis week I went to The Gold Coast (Surfers Paradise) to work on our stand at TechEd. This is our biggest marketing push of the year and gives us a chance to talk to more than 2000 people over the 4 days of the conference. To attract people to our stand we had hired to girls to hand out brochures regarding our price draw. This turned out to be really effective. They managed to hand out 1500 brochures in just one hour so we had to get more printed for the second day. And a lot of people came to visit our stand to see what we were all about. It is pretty hard work. Most days start at around eight in the morning and generally didn't finish until around nine at night..and during this time there is a constant flow of people through the stand and constantly people to talk to. On the last evening Microsoft hosted the TechEd party at MovieWorld...free rides, free drinks and lots of actors dressed up at star wars and star trek characters. None of my colleagues wanted to go, so I went by myself and did some of the rides and alng the way I bumped into various people I knew at the conference. And it was a pretty good fun evening and I took a lot of cool photos, so I recommend you see the rest of the photos in the gallery...just click on one of the photos or on the link provided below. But tell you what...it is really nice being back in Sydney where Kim is. Click here to see more photos from: The Gold Coast 11. August 2007 09:51 by Rene Pallesen 0 Comments Playing Golf at The Coast golf club 11. August 2007 09:51 by Rene Pallesen | 0 Comments Tweetplaying golf at the coast golf clubShareSunday Kim, Luke, Sasha and I went to The Coast to play golf. It is a beautiful course located along the cliffline of Little bay. I had just received my new golf clubs (Cobra S9's) and that needed some adjustment so I didn't play particular well, but I had a good day out nevertheless.A lot of the shots on the course are over the water which can be a bit intimidating if you play the course for the first time...but once you have played it a few times then it is not so bad.The day before I was climbing with Andy at Berowra. It is normally difficult to get him outside climbing, but since he went climbing at Krabi in Thailand during his holiday he's been hooked. Berowra is one of the local Sydney Crags located about 30 minutes drive north of the city centre. It is not a tall cliff line, but a lot of the climbs are very crimpy and there is a lot of variation in the climbs. 30. July 2007 12:56 by Rene Pallesen 0 Comments Skiing Australia 2007 30. July 2007 12:56 by Rene Pallesen | 0 Comments Tweetskiing australia 2007Share This weekend it was my birthday and it also happened to be the ski peak season here in Australia. (click here for more photos) A group of us rented a house in Cooma not too far away from the ski fields and apart from a few mechanical problems with my car we had a blast of a time. On the Saturday we went to Perisher. The snow was perfect and a lot of the runs hadn't been groomed so it was still deep powder snow that we were skiing in. Kim, Luke and Karen took lessons in the morning and later in the afternoon I went for a couple of runs with Luke (Soeren didn't make it to the ski area that day). In the evening we were watching a video (I fell asleep 15 minutes into it), and we had birthday cake and wine/beer. The day after all of us went to Thredbo (which in my opinion is much better) and I was skiing with Soeren all day. The girls were having fun skiing down in the beginners area and Luke was skiing by himself higher on the mountain. We left Thredbo at around 3.30pm and arrived back home in Sydney at around 10.15pm....a long drive. I took a couple of videos of Soeren and myself skiing: Video of Rene Skiing #1 Video of Rene Skiing #2 Video of Soeren Skiing #1 Video of Soeren Skiing #2 Click here to see more photos from: Skiing in Australia/SlideShow 11. July 2007 04:34 by Rene Pallesen 0 Comments Denmark 2007 11. July 2007 04:34 by Rene Pallesen | 0 Comments Tweetdenmark 2007ShareOk, it is not just in Holland that they steal with arms a legs. I am not proud to admit that the same seems to happen in Denmark (my birth country)...but more about that later. After Holland I flew a quick trip to Denmark. On the way there in Heathrow Airport I met up with Kim who had spend a couple of days in London with a couple of friends. I was really looking forward to introducing her to my parents. My flight arrived a bit late in London so we arrived to Copenhagen without my luggage which turned up the following day. All the time while in Denmark it was pouring with rain, but we did have one good day in Copenhagen where Kim got to see the sights Fredriksborg Slot, The Marble church, Amalienborg, City Square and City Hall, Stroeget, The little Mermaid, Runde Taarn, Tivoli and Gefion Springvandet. We had lunch at Kultorvet and here Kim got her handbag stolen by a very professional bag snatcher (Latin American or Eastern European looking, dark short hair, wears a dark green suit and will sit down at the table next to you and talk on his mobile. When he leaves he will take your bag). We also spent a couple of days at my grandmothers place where we we had a look at Koldinghus and Trapholt. Kim got to meet most of the family in Jutland (The family on my Dads side). My cousin had a child recently and the christening was taking place while we were visiting, so it gave us an excuse to visit my grandmother. On the way back from Jutland we visited my Uncle and Auntie Eli and Henning on their farm and also had a look at their windmill. One day we went also sailing up through Guldborgsund with my dad and we also went a quick trip to Germany one afternoon with the ferry. It was good to see my parents again, but I also realise that apart from them there is not much left for me in Denmark and I would never be able to live the same lifestyle in Denmark as I do in Sydney Australia. I took a number of videos while in Denmark and also a lot of photos. I can recommend that you click on the following links to see more from Denmark. Video of my Uncles Windmill #1 Video of my Uncles Windmill #2 Video of my Uncles Windmill #3 Video of Kim and my dad picking strawberries Video of sailing with my dad #1 Video of sailing with my dad #2 Video of sailing with my dad #3 Click here to see more photos from:Denmark/ Slideshow 22. June 2007 06:58 by Rene Pallesen 0 Comments Holland 2007 22. June 2007 06:58 by Rene Pallesen | 0 Comments Tweetholland 2007ShareAfter my stay in Athens Greece I am now in Vianen in Holland where our European office is. The purpose with my stay here is to do a bit or coordination and do some planning. Vianen is about 45 minutes drive south of Amsterdam not too far from Utrect. I am staying at the only hotel in Vianen which is located 3-4 kilometers from the office, but fortunately I have been able to borrow one of the company cars.Vianen really is in the middle of no-where. It is a sleepy little town with no major attractions.The hotel here is really weird. None of the floors meet and the numbering system of the rooms is all over the place. It is generally faster to get from one room in the hotel to another by always taking the lift to the ground floor, exit the hotel, enter it elsewhere and then take the lift up again...at least the ground floor is always on the same level.The room itself is nice enough. When I wake up in the morning i wake up looking at a cow paddock with a couple of horses wandering around...did I say that this is out in the sticks? People in holland steal with their arms and legs. Yesterday I asked to get an ironing board and an iron brought to my room.They told me that they could not do that (could be because of the mile long walk from the reception but I don't think so, because the room also don't have an alarm clock and the tv is bolted to the table) and they told me that they now had a special ironing room. The iron and ironing board was bolted with a big chain to the wall.The only positive thing about the hotel is that the breakfast is pretty nice (dinner isn't) and the internet is reasonably priced at 25 Euros for a week. Its is nice to catch up with colleagues although the schedule is pretty busy here. I interviewed a couple of people for the office here and we are going to give an offer to one of the guys.Also a couple of the restaurants in Vianen itself are fairly decent and the fact that I could borrow a car meant that I could get around a bit. 12. June 2007 07:35 by Rene Pallesen 0 Comments Greece 2007 12. June 2007 07:35 by Rene Pallesen | 0 Comments Tweetgreece 2007Share Here in mid June I am in Greece assisting one of our partners on a project involving our software. I arrived Sunday evening and started working Monday morning with the partner. One of my colleagues Karsten is also here and last night we went to this fantastic restaurant called moorings. It is the most fantastic setting right next to the sea, and the food was fantastic. My starter was goats cheese wrapped in prosciutto ham baked in the oven and then served on a bed of wild mushrooms. For mains I had Grober (a fish) and it was really nice. The servings were massive so no chance of leaving hungry. It was a pity that Kim wasn't there joining me...she would have loved the place. The whole dinner including a bottle of wine, pre-dinner drinks for two people amounted to approximately 135 Euros which is really cheap considering the food and the setting. During the week Karsten and I have been pretty busy assisting the partner on the project. Later in the week they requested to get some more of my time to assist them. Since Athens is a nice place to be (more interesting than Vianen anyway) I as happy to stay. This means that my stay will ten days in total before continuing to Holland. During the weekend I had time to do some windows shopping along Ermou street and in the Athens Flea markets as well as visit the Unknown soldiers grave. After that I continued up to see the Acropolis. I was in Greece and Athens about 15 years ago and managed to see a lot of things, but it was nice with a bit of a refresher. One of the things I particularly remember from Acropolis is the Porch of the Maidens. One evening around sunset on the weekend I walked up this hill close to the hotel that has a small chapel on top. There were also a couple of restaurants up there so I decided to sit down and have dinner. The evening view from the hill was fantastic with a view of Acropolis lit up as well as all of the lights of Athens all the way to Pireus. Click here to see more photos from: Athens / Slideshow 21. May 2007 12:12 by Rene Pallesen 0 Comments Golf at Wakehurst Golf Course 21. May 2007 12:12 by Rene Pallesen | 0 Comments Tweetgolf at wakehurst golf courseShare Sunday afternoon Kim, Luke and I went playing golf at Wakehurst Golf Glub near Manly. It was the first time on this course and it was in perfect condition and a very scenic course. Luke joined us and managed to loose a fair amount of balls until he figured out that he should keep his head down to be able to hit the ball. After this he was able to play a fairly decent game...which was excellent, because I had been giving him a bit of a hard time until then (especially after being 30 minutes late for the game). I think I managed to play the first none holes 7-8 strokes over par. After the first nine holes Kim and I continued on our own and managed to play an additional 6-7 holes before it got to dark to play (and Kim was starving). I recorded a couple of videos of us playing. Click on the links below to download them: Me playing golf (first movie) Me playing golf (second movie) Kim Playing golf Luke playing golf 17. May 2007 10:41 by Rene Pallesen 0 Comments Australian Drought 17. May 2007 10:41 by Rene Pallesen | 0 Comments Tweetaustralian droughtShareSince 1998 we have had a drought in Australia. The water supply in Sydney has been declining ever since and early may 2007 the supply was down to around 30% with only about 8 months supply left.On the 17th of May it started raining in most parts of NSW and in many areas the drought now seems to be either over or at least less serious. Here is a radar photo from that day:Our water supplies in Sydney are now up to 57% and still rising. It would be fantastic if we could reach 100%, but we would need a fair bit of rain still.It also means that there is snow falling in the Snowy Mountains, so the skiing season has already kicked in with plenty of natural snow. 15. May 2007 10:52 by Rene Pallesen 0 Comments Romantic Dinner 15. May 2007 10:52 by Rene Pallesen | 0 Comments Tweetromantic dinnerShareA couple of months ago I took Kim out on this really romantic dinner. She was really impressed with my ability to choose the best places in town. I am writing this post so that all you other blokes (or Sheila's) out there can do the same for your loved ones. The place I took her to is this really romantic waterfront restaurant placed on some of the most expensive realestate in Sydney. The cousine is traditional Australian but this place is famous throughout the world and regularly appear in magasines.The food is very reasonably priced and it is almost always possible to get a seat right next to the water. In the evening the waterfront seating is dimly lit and has got enough privacy for some kisses and some cuddles. A lot of famous people have visited the restaurant and they have got photos of some of the people such as Richard Branson (Virgin), John Travolta (Actor,Grease) and many more. The restaurant has got a rich history and has been in this area for many decades now. The service is quick and polite. The restaurant is BYO so I can recommend bringing a good Australian wine or even a couple of chilled beers on a warm summer night. The restaurant doesn't even charge corkage like other prime restaurants do.On valentines day this restaurant still does a-la-carte at their normal prices where other restaurants either have set menus or inflate their prices. Being on a tight budget is no excuse not to go to this place. They have got food that will fit in any budget and I find it hard to believe that you will leave the place hungry. After dinner go for a romantic stroll along the water and you will have won the heart of your loved one (I did). Click here to see where the restaurant is << Older posts Newer posts >> Newer posts12...747576777879808182...9293Older posts SearchInclude comments in search Newsletter Get notified when a new post is published. Enter your e-mail Please enter an e-mail address Please enter a valid e-mail Thank you
28. December 2007 09:56 by Rene Pallesen 0 Comments Jervis Bay 28. December 2007 09:56 by Rene Pallesen | 0 Comments Tweetjervis bayShareAfter Christmas Eve we went a couple of days to Jervis Bay. Jervis Bay is about 3-4 hours drive south of Sydney and is not part of New South Wales, but belongs to ACT (Australian Capital Territory, Canberra). Hyams beach at Jervis has got a reputation of having the whitest sand in the world. The house we had rented was right on the beach so it was easy to go for a swim. Unfortunately the water was quite cold, so Kim and I instead opted for a trip to the local golf course. In the morning we went fishing and although we did catch a few fish they were all too small to keep. The most annoying was that we kept catching stingrays. Click here to download video of fishing at Jervis Bay #1 Click here to download video of fishing at Jervis Bay #2 I know that the area has got a lot of Port Jackson sharks and on the beaches we found a lot of shark eggs. In the evenings we played Mah Jong and 21. I decided to stay out of the Mah Jong game until I've got a better grasp of how it is played (some of the numbers on the bricks are in Chinese and it therefore took too long time to compute and I felt it was a disadvantage). I had a lucky night in 21 and won $20. Click here to see more photos from Jervis Bay
25. December 2007 09:47 by Rene Pallesen 0 Comments Christmas Eve and Day 25. December 2007 09:47 by Rene Pallesen | 0 Comments Tweetchristmas eve and dayShareThe Australians celebrate Christmas on the 25th December where we in Denmark celebrate it on the 24th in the evening. I still like to celebrate on the 24th and it is the day of the year where I most miss family (and the only day of the year where I miss the cold in Denmark).Most of my friends were either out of town or have kids and therefore not very mobile on this evening so this year I decided that it should just be Kim and myself.I cooked the traditional Christmas dinner with duck and ris-a-la-mande and we had a very nice evening.In the morning next day we went over to Kims family for lunch and there was a lot of people and kids there. Again this year I took on the duty of being Santa's local ambassador and hand out presents to the children...all good fun.
22. December 2007 12:28 by Rene Pallesen 0 Comments Climbing at Mt Keira - Wetting my pants 22. December 2007 12:28 by Rene Pallesen | 0 Comments Tweetclimbing at mt keira wetting my pantsShare Last weekend Andy, May and myself went climbing at Mt keira near woolongong south of Sydney. May had never really done any outdoor climbing before and Keira is a good place to go and try your first lead climb. The weather forecast didn't look promising but we decided to go there anyway as in our experience the forecasts are never very accurate here. Besides it said that there was a chance of one or two showers in the afternoon. As soon as we arrived to the cliffs in the morning we started feeling the first few drops. The rocks were still dry so we decided to put up an easy route anyway. Once we finished it was raining more steadily and the rocks started getting slippery. There was a climb in the corner that was still dry so we decided to quickly also do this. And afterwards we put up a top rope on a climb that also still was dry. Before we got onto it it was raining heavily and there was a storm with lots of lightening approaching. > Click here to download video After a couple of not very motivated (and wet) attempts on the climb I volunteered to clean up the climb. As I approached the top the water was coming down like from a waterfall and by the time I had cleaned up the anchors I was drenched (and yes...my pants were very wet). Climbing wise a really disappointing day...but we still had fun.
6. December 2007 06:01 by Rene Pallesen 0 Comments Tokyo - Having a whale of a time 6. December 2007 06:01 by Rene Pallesen | 0 Comments Tweettokyo having a whale of a timeShareThis week I am in Tokyo for work visiting a couple of partners and also giving them some training on some of our internal solutions that they would like to sell. I love visiting Tokyo...it is like Disney land and everything is just so slightly different. Like for instance the toilets have all the buttons on the side. Yesterday I saw one with a volume control and a "flush noise" button. I couldn't help pressing it...and yes the toilet did make very realistic sounding flushing sounds. I am unsure under what circumstances the sounds can be useful...another mystery that I may be able to solve one day.In the hotel I also tried all the other buttons and it is kind of cool with all the sprinkling water (heated to body temperature), but I still haven't found the button for the 'but' dryer. Click here to see video of Tokyo Square in Shibuya We visited one of our partners customer service centre and that was like watching a movie. They had big wall-to-wall screen showing that status of all the various sites, latest news tv, weather forecasts...or anything else that could be relevant to them running their operations. The walls were liquid crystal walls and by the flick of a button they could make the whole wall transparent and the next minute they would have the latest status projected onto the walls instead...unfortunately they wouldn't allow me to take a photo. Masaru and I also went to a whale restaurant in Shibuya...we tried Whale Sashimi, Whale Tempura, Whale Skin, Whale Bacon, Whale tongue, Whale Beef and Whale soup (I only ate it for Scientific Purposes). It was all very delicious and the Whale Sashimi (raw whale meat) was definitely my favourite. For lunch today I had a really nice baby clam soup...very unusual and very nice. In general food is really nice and there are some unusual places that specialise in their small niche markets...for instance the lunch place that specialises in 'Lemon Detox lunches'. Compared to the food in Sydney this is a magnitude better. The hotel I stay at is in Shibuya which is the area in Tokyo that is very famous with all the lights and screens...it is a very hip area where all the teenagers are wearing the latest fashion and have funny hair. My room is a lot bigger than the one I stayed in last time I was in Tokyo...in this one you can actually walk around the bed and it has got all the features you would normally expect from a western hotel room. And they serve a really nice bacon for breakfast...I bet it is Danish bacon. We also took the peak hour train in the morning...man those trains are fast and they are packed so tight that it is impossible to move let alone raise your arms. Being in Tokyo also means very long working hours. People here start working around 9am in the morning and seldom leave work until after 9pm. It is still the musical chairs with meeting rooms, the deadly silence in the offices, hot working environments etc. One evening we went out with our partners...which was a big introduction to japanese customs. We went out for a late dinner after work a big group of us and when they have dinner then a lot of drinks were served. This was a chinese restaurant so we were drinking some chinese type of wine that tasted like bitter Kahlua. After dinner we went to this drinking place which was really weird (and slightly uncomfortable but interesting). They pay an entry fee of around 3000 Yen ($30 AUD) and you then get to sit down with a girl that serves you drinks and who you can have conversation with (and conversation only).You cannot choose the girl and I guess this is the modern form of the Geisha...and a cheaper way of talking about your problems at work or with your wife than visiting a psychologist.I really like visiting Tokyo...but I don't think I could live there (too controlled). It is really interesting to visit especially in a working capacity as you see all the funny differences in lifestyle, work, objects and opinions. Most of the time it is a really good laugh...like when one of the guys asked if he could take a picture of me because he told his wife that he was working with a foreigner that looks like Tom Cruise (I told him that Tom is a full head shorter then I am).We had an earthquake while I was there. The whole building started swaying from side to side...I was looking at the Japanese guys are they were calm so I thought that there was no reason to panic. Apparently it happens all the time there. Click here to see more photos from TokyoHere is some more photos from the trip.
1. December 2007 01:23 by Rene Pallesen 0 Comments Hunter Valley December 1. December 2007 01:23 by Rene Pallesen | 0 Comments Tweethunter valley decemberShare Before my trip to Tokyo and before Christmas we decided to go to the Hunter Valley to stock up on good wines (We buy them now cheap and drink them in 5-10 years time when they would be really expensive). Hunter Valley is about 2 hours drive North of Sydney and it had got about 200 Vinyards you can visit for wine tasting and then buy the wines straight from the cellar. We went there with a couple of Kims friends and Kim and I bought a couple of cases of wine together. Everything in the Valley was nice ang green due to a lot of rain in the area lately. Click here to see more photos from Hunter Valley
21. November 2007 01:50 by Rene Pallesen 0 Comments Kayaking at Woy Woy 21. November 2007 01:50 by Rene Pallesen | 0 Comments Tweetkayaking at voy voyShareWhen Kim left Epicor she got a gift certificate to go Kayaking at Woy Woy, so this weekend we headed up there together with Mike and his wife Helen.Both Kim and I have done some kayaking before but it was a new experience for Helen. We paddled up through some of the inland waters in Brisbane Waters near Woy Woy and afterwards we stopped at the fisherman's wharf for some really nice seafood.
29. October 2007 02:57 by Rene Pallesen 0 Comments Berowra, Narrabeen Slabs & Australian Wildlife 29. October 2007 02:57 by Rene Pallesen | 0 Comments Tweetberowra narrabeen slabs australian wildlifeShareOne of the things about living in Australia is that you are exposed to a lot of creepy crawly stuff. In the urban jungle you don't really notice, but once you come a bit closer to nature then you cannot avoid seeing some of the insects etc. This is especially true when we go climbing. The last couple of weeks Andy and I have been exposed to a couple more creeps than we usually see. The last couple of weeks Andy and I have been climbing in the Sydney area. Last weekend we went up to Berowra again and had a generally pleasant day had it not been for the brown snake. On the last climb of the day we decided to try this climb that none of us had done before, but because of the protection we decided to top rope it. In the guide book the description reads: Savage Cabbage 8m 19Up thin crack then tricky moves left to main crack. Follow this (take care with pro) to new lower off. Often dirty and sometimes inhabited by a (friendly) brown snake.This was warning enough and as a safety precaution we checked the holes at the bottom of the climb and didn't see anything suspicious. He started climbing and about 2 metres up he stuck his had into one of the pockets. He then decided to take a peek to see if there was anything in there and very quickly pulled his stand out shouting "Fu...a snake". Fortunately he hadn't been bitten or I would have had to call him a helicopter....again. Wikipedia says the following about the snake:Brown snakes are easily alarmed and may bite if approached closely, handled or threatened. The Eastern brown snake is the most toxic member of the genus and is the second most toxic land snake in the world. I don't think we'll be jumping onto that climb anytime soon. This weekend we decided instead to go to Narrabeen slaps as we hadn't been there for a while and it is easily accessible (15 minutes drive from home). It is a nice selection of semi difficult slabs along the Wakehurst parkway (almost rain forest). Generally when climbing in Sydney you see many webs from the funnel webs and I also saw at least one at Narrabeen. And, when we go to other climbing areas then there are always multiple holes in the rocks where you can see the funnel shaped webs. I happen to hate spiders and always fear that I will poke my fingers into a funnel web. I have only seen a live (I think) funnel web once and that was in Nowra on the bottom of a pond of water (people generally check their swimming pools for funnel webs before swimming as they can stay below the surface for ages), I saw a tiny scorpion on the floor of the cooking area in Nowra on the same trip. Wikipedia says:Although they are rather small, they should not be handled without taking substantial precautions, because their fangs have been known to penetrate fingernails and soft shoes, resulting in dangerous bites. Funnel-webs are probably one of the three most dangerous spiders in the world and are regarded by some to be the most dangerous. While Andy was belaying me he saw a redback spider crawl across the rope back and squashed it under his feet. He told me he had to stomp on it several times before it died. Wikipedia says:The redback spider is a potentially dangerous spider native to Australia. It resembles a Black widow spider. Redbacks, along with funnel-web spiders, are the most dangerous spiders in Australia. Most Australians dislike the redback spider, thanks in part to the frequency with which it is encountered in the environs of human habitations. Also, the crag is generally infested with mosquitoes, ticks and on this day we also had the pleasure of a big fat Tiger Leech which had had a feast on Andy's big toe so it started bleeding heavily as we left the crag (but the leech lived to see another day). We saw it earlier on Andy's sandals but flicked it off...only later did we discover that it had been sucking blood from him.
16. October 2007 10:21 by Rene Pallesen 0 Comments Brampton Island 2007 16. October 2007 10:21 by Rene Pallesen | 0 Comments Tweetbrampton island 2007ShareKim finished her job at Epicor this Monday and we therefore decided to go somewhere for an extended weekend before she starts any new adventures. Our first choice was to to go Samoa, but because of school holidays the hotels and flights were booked the days we wanted to go. Instead we settled on going to Brampton Island in the Whitsundays about 2000km North of Sydney. It was a long flight up there, first to Brisbane, then on to Mackay and from there continue with a small light aircraft to Brampton Island itself. Here is a photo of the island from the aircraft. Click here to see a video of Brampton Island from the aircraft. The island is beautiful and there is only one resort on the island accomodating a maximum of 200 guests. Because of all the flights to get there it means that it is a perfect couples destination as there were no kids making noise there (according to Kenneth kids families won't go unless it is a direct flight). The Island has got a number of really nice remote beaches that are empty and where one can get up to all sorts of mischief. There is also a small 6 hole par 3 golf course as well as archery range, spa and a couple of different pools etc. Our intention for the weekend wasn't really to be very active, but really to just relax and have a nice time together. On the first day we walked around the whole island (8km) and went for a swim along the way at a beach on the other side of the island that we had all to ourselves. We managed to get a bit of a sunburn both of us so the next day we stayed in the shade. On one of the other days we got a picnic pamper and found another beach where we could relax, swim and enjoy ourselves without anyone else around. The water was crystal clear and we could see fish and stingrays swimming around in it and although we had bought our snorkeling gear we never got around to using it.Here is a photo of Kim on the beach. And...click here to see a video of Kim in the water. Both of us had a very memorable time on the beaches.Most of the other guests were just spending their time in the resort itself and when it was too hot to go anywhere we also spent the time in the resort relaxing in the shade sipping cocktails. The only thing that was a bit disappointing was that the resort had all these nice catamarans and sailboards that were free to use, but because of lack of experience of the people working on the resort they wouldn't let anyone sail them if there was any wind whatsoever (really...what's the point!?!?). In the evening there was various forms of entertainment. Especially this one man band was really good, but most of the other entertainment was pretty average as the staff to be honest had little to no clue whatsoever. Click here to see more photos from Brampton Island
17. September 2007 10:17 by Rene Pallesen 0 Comments Fish Market & The Coast Colf Club 17. September 2007 10:17 by Rene Pallesen | 0 Comments Tweetfish market the coast colf clubShareThis Sunday we went to the fish market in Sydney with one of Kims colleagues from Singapore (who also happens to be Danish) and his Singaporean girlfriend for Lunch. The Seafood at the fish market is very fresh and nice. You can go to all these small seafood stalls and buy various seafood such as various types of Sashimi, Sushi, Lobster, Abalone, Scallops, Calamari and Balmain bugs. Kim and I shared a large seafood basket with different types of seafood as well as a small box of Sashimi. Afterwards we took Michael to The Coast Golf Club while Caroline went to do some retail therapy in Paddington. We only played 8 holes as we had to leave at 5pm to be at Kims sister at 6pm for her youngest sisters birthday.I took a really cool and funny video of Kim almost making par on one of the holes. Click here to download the video of Kim
10. September 2007 05:48 by Rene Pallesen 0 Comments Holland September 2007 10. September 2007 05:48 by Rene Pallesen | 0 Comments Tweetholland september 2007Share In early September I again went a week to Holland. The purpose of the trip this time was a combination of team building, create common processes and training. The company is working on getting everyone ECM (Electronic Content Management) certified. Since I just got back from Holland a couple of months ago I decided to just quickly fly in Sunday afternoon and then return Saturday morning. I really don't like flying through London Heathrow airport. They always loose my luggage there and every time it takes 1-3 days before it eventually arrives. My flight was delayed so as I expected I missed my flight to Amsterdam. I asked them to book me onto the next available flight where my luggage also would have a chance to make it.When the flight boarded I checked with the staff to make sure that my luggage had made it...it hadn't :-(As I had plenty of time I decided it would be better for me to de-board the flight and then try and catch the next flight hoping that my luggage then would make it...which I then confirmed it did when I boarded. Heathrow is the only airport in the world where I consistently have this problem. They need at least 3 hours between the flight to have a chance of transferring the luggage. Next time I'll check what options I have to fly through Frankfurt instead. Click here to see more photos from: Holland
8. July 2015 09:07 by Rene Pallesen 0 Comments Phuket - Muay Thai 8. July 2015 09:07 by Rene Pallesen | 0 Comments TweetOne evening I went to see Thai boxing. I asked the rest of the family if anyone wanted to join me, bShareOne evening I went to see Thai boxing or Muay Thai as it is called locally. I asked the rest of the family if anyone wanted to join me, but they all said no (it is the national sport of Thailand). I had been once before long time ago in Bangkok and wanted to experience it again.I decided to pay the bit extra and get a VIP seat right next to the ring and that was definitely worth the extra money.There were 8 fights that evening. The first fight was between two kids around 11 years old. Especially the kid in black shorts was very strong and was dominating the fight throughout.The second fight was between two older teenagers. Again the kid in black was dominating the match.The third fight was between to women, a Canadian and a Thai. The canadian girl looked very relaxed and was definitely ready to fight. The Thai girl had no chance against her and the match ended in knockout.Before each fight they go through this unique dance ritual.I was privileged to sit next to one of the judges who has happy to talk, so between each round I could ask him questions about the scoring system which is rather confusing.The 4th match was between a French and a Thai. The foreigners are really dominating this sport now and the Thai's were generally struggling.As with all the fights wit foreigners this fight also ended in a knockout.The 5th fight was back to two Thais fighting.One of the last fights was between a brazilian and a Thai. When walking into the ring you could tell that the brazil was very strong.He started by kicking the Thai in the chest and then punched him in the face.The fight lasted less than a minute before a knockout.The last fight was more in the heavyweight class, again between a brazilian and a Thai.This fight was full of power and again it ended up in knockout.After the fights I happened see the winners lining up out the back. I managed to get a photo with a couple of them....yeah, I look really convincing there.This evening was definitely one of my highlights from the trip and if we were going back then I would probably go again. The atmosphere is amazing and if the fighters are good then the experience is phenomenal.
6. July 2015 07:07 by Rene Pallesen 0 Comments Phuket - Island trip 6. July 2015 07:07 by Rene Pallesen | 0 Comments TweetOne morning Kim booked a trip out to some of the smaller islands of Phuket.The trip was in a large sShareOne morning Kim booked a trip out to some of the smaller islands of Phuket.The trip was in a large speed boat and initially the family didn't want to go because they were worried about getting seasick, but eventually they changed their minds.The boys loved the experience and were very proud wearing their life jackets.On the island we could feed the fish from the beach.And there was time to play in the water for the boys (and a bit of snorkeling for me).It is also good to see that they are still using their long tail boats for traditional fishing.
5. July 2015 12:07 by Rene Pallesen 0 Comments Phuket - Baby elephant 5. July 2015 12:07 by Rene Pallesen | 0 Comments TweetAfter visiting the big Buddha we stopped to feed a baby elephant.The kids were a little overwhelmed ShareAfter visiting the big Buddha we stopped to feed a baby elephant.The kids were a little overwhelmed by its trunk, but fun nevertheless.
4. July 2015 14:07 by Rene Pallesen 0 Comments Phuket - Big Buddha 4. July 2015 14:07 by Rene Pallesen | 0 Comments TweetAfter Wat Chalong we went up to see the Big Buddha on top of a big hill.The Buddha itself is 45 metrShareAfter Wat Chalong we went up to see the Big Buddha on top of a big hill.The Buddha itself is 45 metres tall and is very impressive.They have been building there for the past 10 years and will probably be building for at least another 10.While there we also did a little prayer for Kim's mum.And Aiden being his cheeky self did the 3 monkeys pose.And they loved the big gongs (which you actually rub rather than gong).Surprisingly they also in a far corner of the compound had some indian gods, but maybe not so surprising since we were close to Myanmar with a large indian based population (lots of Myanmar people in Phuket).
3. July 2015 13:07 by Rene Pallesen 0 Comments Phuket - Wat Chalong 3. July 2015 13:07 by Rene Pallesen | 0 Comments TweetOne morning we ventured out to see one of the islands biggest temples, the Wat Chalong.It is a magniShareOne morning we ventured out to see one of the islands biggest temples, the Wat Chalong.It is a magnificent temple with lots to see and it was a pity that the rest of the family didn't want to join us.The temple contains what is said to be a bone fragment of buddha.And the temple itself is full of golden buddhas.Outside there are some elephant sculptures and across from that an areas where they fire of ceremonial fireworks which really scared the boys (as seen of Lucas face).
2. July 2015 13:07 by Rene Pallesen 0 Comments Phuket - Food 2. July 2015 13:07 by Rene Pallesen | 0 Comments TweetThe food in Thailand is delicious.There are so many variations that we cannot get at home and they dShareThe food in Thailand is delicious.There are so many variations that we cannot get at home and they don't add all that sugar.Lucas was a bit tired after a morning at the beach at this one.On KC's birthday we went to an ocean front seafood place.I don't think the family liked the food in Thailand much though, because they wanted to eat japanese and wanted air conditioned restaurants even though the evenings generally were a bit cooler.
1. July 2015 13:07 by Rene Pallesen 0 Comments Phuket - Various 1. July 2015 13:07 by Rene Pallesen | 0 Comments TweetHere are some various photos that I haven't posted earlier.Here is one of a jumpshot with Kim and I ShareHere are some various photos that I haven't posted earlier.Here is one of a jumpshot with Kim and I in front of the big Buddha.Down at the beach there was this artificial wave surfing centre.
1. July 2015 13:07 by Rene Pallesen 0 Comments Phuket - Shopping 1. July 2015 13:07 by Rene Pallesen | 0 Comments TweetThe family did lots of shopping.Kim's family had suits and shirts made and the girls bought lots of ShareThe family did lots of shopping.Kim's family had suits and shirts made and the girls bought lots of shoes.We also found some great tshirts for the kids.Although the kids were more interested in the ice cream.
1. July 2015 12:07 by Rene Pallesen 0 Comments Phuket - fruits 1. July 2015 12:07 by Rene Pallesen | 0 Comments TweetIt is fruit season at the moment so we bought lots of really delicious fruits such as Rambutans, manShareIt is fruit season at the moment so we bought lots of really delicious fruits such as Rambutans, mangosteens, mangoes, jack fruit etc.
30. June 2015 13:07 by Rene Pallesen 0 Comments Phuket - Street life 30. June 2015 13:07 by Rene Pallesen | 0 Comments TweetThe street life in Thailand is as it always have been with lots of food stalls and other shops.PetroShareThe street life in Thailand is as it always have been with lots of food stalls and other shops. Perfect Moments Photography | A Rene Pallesen Journal Blog Portfolio Packages Contact About Home 2. April 2016 22:04 by Admin 0 Comments Eastertrip Oberon 2. April 2016 22:04 by Admin | 0 Comments TweetThis Easter we rented a small cabin out at Oberon. It was a beautiful little place on top of a hill ShareThis Easter we rented a small cabin out at Oberon. It was a beautiful little place on top of a hill with a beautiful view.The place was full of cattle, kangaroos and wombat holes (with wombats in them).Along the way we stopped at Wentworth Falls.We also went to Jenolan Caves one day.And afterwards Kanangra walls (Lucas never made the 200m walk there...too tired from all the walking. Pity, because it was the perfect spot and light for a family photo).Next day we tried going to the glow worm tunnel, but the easter crowds made us turn back once we approached the car park. So instead we went up to Blackheath to have a nice lunch and enjoy some of the lookouts.Later I tried another family photo at the cabin...very windy.Overall a nice trip and the boys had a lot of fun. 2. April 2016 21:04 by Admin 0 Comments Eastershow 2016 2. April 2016 21:04 by Admin | 0 Comments TweetAgain this year we went to the Easter Show the entertainment quarter. As usual it was great fun for ShareAgain this year we went to the Easter Show the entertainment quarter. As usual it was great fun for the kids.Especially Lucas had a blast now that he is old enough to participate. 2. April 2016 19:04 by Admin 0 Comments Australia Day - Citizenship 2. April 2016 19:04 by Admin | 0 Comments TweetAustralia day was a very special day this year. I have been living in Australia for over 17 years anShareAustralia day was a very special day this year. I have been living in Australia for over 17 years and have been waiting for the moment Denmark would accept dual citizenship.Although I have been been calling Australia my home for a long time I am also a Dane and didn't want to give this up.I actually thought that it would never happen, but finally in late 2015 the law was finally changed and I lodged my Australian application immediately. On Australian day I took the pledge and can officially call myself an Australian now.Kim and the boys, KA and Aaron as well a few friends attended the ceremony. I felt very proud and was very honoured.And I was pampered with Australia day gifts. 7. January 2016 18:01 by Rene Pallesen 0 Comments Hunter Valley Christmas 2015 7. January 2016 18:01 by Rene Pallesen | 0 Comments TweetBetween Christmas and New year we went to the Hunter Valley with Sasha and his family.We stayed overShareBetween Christmas and New year we went to the Hunter Valley with Sasha and his family.We stayed overnight in a cabin in Lovedale.During the day we tasted wines at the various wineries (found some good ones).The kids also loved playing at the cabin in the evenings. 7. January 2016 18:01 by Rene Pallesen 0 Comments Christmas 2015 7. January 2016 18:01 by Rene Pallesen | 0 Comments TweetThis year we decided not to celebrate on the eve of the 24 and just stick with the 25th at KC's placShareThis year we decided not to celebrate on the eve of the 24 and just stick with the 25th at KC's place (too much cooking otherwise). I was responsible for the Christmas ham (with limited success).It was a relaxing day and the kids were very exited about their presents. 16. December 2015 13:12 by Rene Pallesen 0 Comments Silliness 16. December 2015 13:12 by Rene Pallesen | 0 Comments TweetSometimes when I am setting up for a photo especially Aiden likes to jump in a get silly.It is a gooShareSometimes when I am setting up for a photo especially Aiden likes to jump in a get silly.It is a good way to test the lighting and sometimes I managed to get a 'keeper' such as this one from a few weeks back. 16. December 2015 12:12 by Rene Pallesen 0 Comments Christmas family photo 2015 16. December 2015 12:12 by Rene Pallesen | 0 Comments TweetIt is almost Christmas and I've just completed our annual family Christmas photo and this is the finShareIt is almost Christmas and I've just completed our annual family Christmas photo and this is the final version.It was an interesting process getting to this photo this year. Last year we did a photo in the kitchen of us baking a cake, but this years photo has so many more elements to it.The idea came from a combination of Kim and my ideas. Kim wanted to do a photo of the boys through a crystal ball. I actually bought the crystal ball right after Christmas last year with this year in mind.We did a test in front of the tree in early December which was reasonably okay, but Kim didn't like the feel to it. She wanted more snow (pretty ambitious on a summers day here in Sydney Australia).My idea for our family photo was based on me wanting to do a story of us as a family out in a snow storm 'Looking for Santa'. I had purchased a bag of artificial snow and a Christmas cape a few months back and we had some lanterns downstairs so I pretty much had all the components in place for the shoot.I knew I had to do it as a composite with the boys as there was no way that I would be able to get the photo with all four of us at once. We did the photo over a couple of days, on the first evening (after the kids had gone to bed) I took the one of Kim and myself holding the lantern. Once I had this photo I could show it to Aiden and Lucas so that they knew what we needed them to do (Lucas just had to copy Aiden).I had Gaffa taped markers on the floor so everyone would know where they were supposed t Perfect Moments Photography | A Rene Pallesen Journal Blog Portfolio Packages Contact About Home 10. September 2007 05:39 by Rene Pallesen 0 Comments Birthday Party 10. September 2007 05:39 by Rene Pallesen | 0 Comments Tweetbirthday partyShare Because Kim and I was busy travelling we never really managed to hold a birthday party where friends were invited along. So, in mid august we held a small party celebrating Kim's, Luke's and My birthday. Kim and Luke has got birthday on the same day and I was out travelling at that time, and on my birthday we went skiing in the Snowy Mountains. It was a fun evening at a nice Thai restaurant in North Sydney. Click here to see more pictures from: Birthday party 11. August 2007 10:03 by Rene Pallesen 0 Comments The Gold Coast - Microsoft TechEd 11. August 2007 10:03 by Rene Pallesen | 0 Comments Tweetthe golf coast microsoft techedShareThis week I went to The Gold Coast (Surfers Paradise) to work on our stand at TechEd. This is our biggest marketing push of the year and gives us a chance to talk to more than 2000 people over the 4 days of the conference. To attract people to our stand we had hired to girls to hand out brochures regarding our price draw. This turned out to be really effective. They managed to hand out 1500 brochures in just one hour so we had to get more printed for the second day. And a lot of people came to visit our stand to see what we were all about. It is pretty hard work. Most days start at around eight in the morning and generally didn't finish until around nine at night..and during this time there is a constant flow of people through the stand and constantly people to talk to. On the last evening Microsoft hosted the TechEd party at MovieWorld...free rides, free drinks and lots of actors dressed up at star wars and star trek characters. None of my colleagues wanted to go, so I went by myself and did some of the rides and alng the way I bumped into various people I knew at the conference. And it was a pretty good fun evening and I took a lot of cool photos, so I recommend you see the rest of the photos in the gallery...just click on one of the photos or on the link provided below. But tell you what...it is really nice being back in Sydney where Kim is. Click here to see more photos from: The Gold Coast 11. August 2007 09:51 by Rene Pallesen 0 Comments Playing Golf at The Coast golf club 11. August 2007 09:51 by Rene Pallesen | 0 Comments Tweetplaying golf at the coast golf clubShareSunday Kim, Luke, Sasha and I went to The Coast to play golf. It is a beautiful course located along the cliffline of Little bay. I had just received my new golf clubs (Cobra S9's) and that needed some adjustment so I didn't play particular well, but I had a good day out nevertheless.A lot of the shots on the course are over the water which can be a bit intimidating if you play the course for the first time...but once you have played it a few times then it is not so bad.The day before I was climbing with Andy at Berowra. It is normally difficult to get him outside climbing, but since he went climbing at Krabi in Thailand during his holiday he's been hooked. Berowra is one of the local Sydney Crags located about 30 minutes drive north of the city centre. It is not a tall cliff line, but a lot of the climbs are very crimpy and there is a lot of variation in the climbs. 30. July 2007 12:56 by Rene Pallesen 0 Comments Skiing Australia 2007 30. July 2007 12:56 by Rene Pallesen | 0 Comments Tweetskiing australia 2007Share This weekend it was my birthday and it also happened to be the ski peak season here in Australia. (click here for more photos) A group of us rented a house in Cooma not too far away from the ski fields and apart from a few mechanical problems with my car we had a blast of a time. On the Saturday we went to Perisher. The snow was perfect and a lot of the runs hadn't been groomed so it was still deep powder snow that we were skiing in. Kim, Luke and Karen took lessons in the morning and later in the afternoon I went for a couple of runs with Luke (Soeren didn't make it to the ski area that day). In the evening we were watching a video (I fell asleep 15 minutes into it), and we had birthday cake and wine/beer. The day after all of us went to Thredbo (which in my opinion is much better) and I was skiing with Soeren all day. The girls were having fun skiing down in the beginners area and Luke was skiing by himself higher on the mountain. We left Thredbo at around 3.30pm and arrived back home in Sydney at around 10.15pm....a long drive. I took a couple of videos of Soeren and myself skiing: Video of Rene Skiing #1 Video of Rene Skiing #2 Video of Soeren Skiing #1 Video of Soeren Skiing #2 Click here to see more photos from: Skiing in Australia/SlideShow 11. July 2007 04:34 by Rene Pallesen 0 Comments Denmark 2007 11. July 2007 04:34 by Rene Pallesen | 0 Comments Tweetdenmark 2007ShareOk, it is not just in Holland that they steal with arms a legs. I am not proud to admit that the same seems to happen in Denmark (my birth country)...but more about that later. After Holland I flew a quick trip to Denmark. On the way there in Heathrow Airport I met up with Kim who had spend a couple of days in London with a couple of friends. I was really looking forward to introducing her to my parents. My flight arrived a bit late in London so we arrived to Copenhagen without my luggage which turned up the following day. All the time while in Denmark it was pouring with rain, but we did have one good day in Copenhagen where Kim got to see the sights Fredriksborg Slot, The Marble church, Amalienborg, City Square and City Hall, Stroeget, The little Mermaid, Runde Taarn, Tivoli and Gefion Springvandet. We had lunch at Kultorvet and here Kim got her handbag stolen by a very professional bag snatcher (Latin American or Eastern European looking, dark short hair, wears a dark green suit and will sit down at the table next to you and talk on his mobile. When he leaves he will take your bag). We also spent a couple of days at my grandmothers place where we we had a look at Koldinghus and Trapholt. Kim got to meet most of the family in Jutland (The family on my Dads side). My cousin had a child recently and the christening was taking place while we were visiting, so it gave us an excuse to visit my grandmother. On the way back from Jutland we visited my Uncle and Auntie Eli and Henning on their farm and also had a look at their windmill. One day we went also sailing up through Guldborgsund with my dad and we also went a quick trip to Germany one afternoon with the ferry. It was good to see my parents again, but I also realise that apart from them there is not much left for me in Denmark and I would never be able to live the same lifestyle in Denmark as I do in Sydney Australia. I took a number of videos while in Denmark and also a lot of photos. I can recommend that you click on the following links to see more from Denmark. Video of my Uncles Windmill #1 Video of my Uncles Windmill #2 Video of my Uncles Windmill #3 Video of Kim and my dad picking strawberries Video of sailing with my dad #1 Video of sailing with my dad #2 Video of sailing with my dad #3 Click here to see more photos from:Denmark/ Slideshow 22. June 2007 06:58 by Rene Pallesen 0 Comments Holland 2007 22. June 2007 06:58 by Rene Pallesen | 0 Comments Tweetholland 2007ShareAfter my stay in Athens Greece I am now in Vianen in Holland where our European office is. The purpose with my stay here is to do a bit or coordination and do some planning. Vianen is about 45 minutes drive south of Amsterdam not too far from Utrect. I am staying at the only hotel in Vianen which is located 3-4 kilometers from the office, but fortunately I have been able to borrow one of the company cars.Vianen really is in the middle of no-where. It is a sleepy little town with no major attractions.The hotel here is really weird. None of the floors meet and the numbering system of the rooms is all over the place. It is generally faster to get from one room in the hotel to another by always taking the lift to the ground floor, exit the hotel, enter it elsewhere and then take the lift up again...at least the ground floor is always on the same level.The room itself is nice enough. When I wake up in the morning i wake up looking at a cow paddock with a couple of horses wandering around...did I say that this is out in the sticks? People in holland steal with their arms and legs. Yesterday I asked to get an ironing board and an iron brought to my room.They told me that they could not do that (could be because of the mile long walk from the reception but I don't think so, because the room also don't have an alarm clock and the tv is bolted to the table) and they told me that they now had a special ironing room. The iron and ironing board was bolted with a big chain to the wall.The only positive thing about the hotel is that the breakfast is pretty nice (dinner isn't) and the internet is reasonably priced at 25 Euros for a week. Its is nice to catch up with colleagues although the schedule is pretty busy here. I interviewed a couple of people for the office here and we are going to give an offer to one of the guys.Also a couple of the restaurants in Vianen itself are fairly decent and the fact that I could borrow a car meant that I could get around a bit. 12. June 2007 07:35 by Rene Pallesen 0 Comments Greece 2007 12. June 2007 07:35 by Rene Pallesen | 0 Comments Tweetgreece 2007Share Here in mid June I am in Greece assisting one of our partners on a project involving our software. I arrived Sunday evening and started working Monday morning with the partner. One of my colleagues Karsten is also here and last night we went to this fantastic restaurant called moorings. It is the most fantastic setting right next to the sea, and the food was fantastic. My starter was goats cheese wrapped in prosciutto ham baked in the oven and then served on a bed of wild mushrooms. For mains I had Grober (a fish) and it was really nice. The servings were massive so no chance of leaving hungry. It was a pity that Kim wasn't there joining me...she would have loved the place. The whole dinner including a bottle of wine, pre-dinner drinks for two people amounted to approximately 135 Euros which is really cheap considering the food and the setting. During the week Karsten and I have been pretty busy assisting the partner on the project. Later in the week they requested to get some more of my time to assist them. Since Athens is a nice place to be (more interesting than Vianen anyway) I as happy to stay. This means that my stay will ten days in total before continuing to Holland. During the weekend I had time to do some windows shopping along Ermou street and in the Athens Flea markets as well as visit the Unknown soldiers grave. After that I continued up to see the Acropolis. I was in Greece and Athens about 15 years ago and managed to see a lot of things, but it was nice with a bit of a refresher. One of the things I particularly remember from Acropolis is the Porch of the Maidens. One evening around sunset on the weekend I walked up this hill close to the hotel that has a small chapel on top. There were also a couple of restaurants up there so I decided to sit down and have dinner. The evening view from the hill was fantastic with a view of Acropolis lit up as well as all of the lights of Athens all the way to Pireus. Click here to see more photos from: Athens / Slideshow 21. May 2007 12:12 by Rene Pallesen 0 Comments Golf at Wakehurst Golf Course 21. May 2007 12:12 by Rene Pallesen | 0 Comments Tweetgolf at wakehurst golf courseShare Sunday afternoon Kim, Luke and I went playing golf at Wakehurst Golf Glub near Manly. It was the first time on this course and it was in perfect condition and a very scenic course. Luke joined us and managed to loose a fair amount of balls until he figured out that he should keep his head down to be able to hit the ball. After this he was able to play a fairly decent game...which was excellent, because I had been giving him a bit of a hard time until then (especially after being 30 minutes late for the game). I think I managed to play the first none holes 7-8 strokes over par. After the first nine holes Kim and I continued on our own and managed to play an additional 6-7 holes before it got to dark to play (and Kim was starving). I recorded a couple of videos of us playing. Click on the links below to download them: Me playing golf (first movie) Me playing golf (second movie) Kim Playing golf Luke playing golf 17. May 2007 10:41 by Rene Pallesen 0 Comments Australian Drought 17. May 2007 10:41 by Rene Pallesen | 0 Comments Tweetaustralian droughtShareSince 1998 we have had a drought in Australia. The water supply in Sydney has been declining ever since and early may 2007 the supply was down to around 30% with only about 8 months supply left.On the 17th of May it started raining in most parts of NSW and in many areas the drought now seems to be either over or at least less serious. Here is a radar photo from that day:Our water supplies in Sydney are now up to 57% and still rising. It would be fantastic if we could reach 100%, but we would need a fair bit of rain still.It also means that there is snow falling in the Snowy Mountains, so the skiing season has already kicked in with plenty of natural snow. 15. May 2007 10:52 by Rene Pallesen 0 Comments Romantic Dinner 15. May 2007 10:52 by Rene Pallesen | 0 Comments Tweetromantic dinnerShareA couple of months ago I took Kim out on this really romantic dinner. She was really impressed with my ability to choose the best places in town. I am writing this post so that all you other blokes (or Sheila's) out there can do the same for your loved ones. The place I took her to is this really romantic waterfront restaurant placed on some of the most expensive realestate in Sydney. The cousine is traditional Australian but this place is famous throughout the world and regularly appear in magasines.The food is very reasonably priced and it is almost always possible to get a seat right next to the water. In the evening the waterfront seating is dimly lit and has got enough privacy for some kisses and some cuddles. A lot of famous people have visited the restaurant and they have got photos of some of the people such as Richard Branson (Virgin), John Travolta (Actor,Grease) and many more. The restaurant has got a rich history and has been in this area for many decades now. The service is quick and polite. The restaurant is BYO so I can recommend bringing a good Australian wine or even a couple of chilled beers on a warm summer night. The restaurant doesn't even charge corkage like other prime restaurants do.On valentines day this restaurant still does a-la-carte at their normal prices where other restaurants either have set menus or inflate their prices. Being on a tight budget is no excuse not to go to this place. They have got food that will fit in any budget and I find it hard to believe that you will leave the place hungry. After dinner go for a romantic stroll along the water and you will have won the heart of your loved one (I did). Click here to see where the restaurant is << Older posts Newer posts >> Newer posts12...747576777879808182...9293Older posts SearchInclude comments in search Newsletter Get notified when a new post is published. Enter your e-mail Please enter an e-mail address Please enter a valid e-mail Thank you
2. April 2016 22:04 by Admin 0 Comments Eastertrip Oberon 2. April 2016 22:04 by Admin | 0 Comments TweetThis Easter we rented a small cabin out at Oberon. It was a beautiful little place on top of a hill ShareThis Easter we rented a small cabin out at Oberon. It was a beautiful little place on top of a hill with a beautiful view.The place was full of cattle, kangaroos and wombat holes (with wombats in them).Along the way we stopped at Wentworth Falls.We also went to Jenolan Caves one day.And afterwards Kanangra walls (Lucas never made the 200m walk there...too tired from all the walking. Pity, because it was the perfect spot and light for a family photo).Next day we tried going to the glow worm tunnel, but the easter crowds made us turn back once we approached the car park. So instead we went up to Blackheath to have a nice lunch and enjoy some of the lookouts.Later I tried another family photo at the cabin...very windy.Overall a nice trip and the boys had a lot of fun.
2. April 2016 21:04 by Admin 0 Comments Eastershow 2016 2. April 2016 21:04 by Admin | 0 Comments TweetAgain this year we went to the Easter Show the entertainment quarter. As usual it was great fun for ShareAgain this year we went to the Easter Show the entertainment quarter. As usual it was great fun for the kids.Especially Lucas had a blast now that he is old enough to participate.
2. April 2016 19:04 by Admin 0 Comments Australia Day - Citizenship 2. April 2016 19:04 by Admin | 0 Comments TweetAustralia day was a very special day this year. I have been living in Australia for over 17 years anShareAustralia day was a very special day this year. I have been living in Australia for over 17 years and have been waiting for the moment Denmark would accept dual citizenship.Although I have been been calling Australia my home for a long time I am also a Dane and didn't want to give this up.I actually thought that it would never happen, but finally in late 2015 the law was finally changed and I lodged my Australian application immediately. On Australian day I took the pledge and can officially call myself an Australian now.Kim and the boys, KA and Aaron as well a few friends attended the ceremony. I felt very proud and was very honoured.And I was pampered with Australia day gifts.
7. January 2016 18:01 by Rene Pallesen 0 Comments Hunter Valley Christmas 2015 7. January 2016 18:01 by Rene Pallesen | 0 Comments TweetBetween Christmas and New year we went to the Hunter Valley with Sasha and his family.We stayed overShareBetween Christmas and New year we went to the Hunter Valley with Sasha and his family.We stayed overnight in a cabin in Lovedale.During the day we tasted wines at the various wineries (found some good ones).The kids also loved playing at the cabin in the evenings.
7. January 2016 18:01 by Rene Pallesen 0 Comments Christmas 2015 7. January 2016 18:01 by Rene Pallesen | 0 Comments TweetThis year we decided not to celebrate on the eve of the 24 and just stick with the 25th at KC's placShareThis year we decided not to celebrate on the eve of the 24 and just stick with the 25th at KC's place (too much cooking otherwise). I was responsible for the Christmas ham (with limited success).It was a relaxing day and the kids were very exited about their presents.
16. December 2015 13:12 by Rene Pallesen 0 Comments Silliness 16. December 2015 13:12 by Rene Pallesen | 0 Comments TweetSometimes when I am setting up for a photo especially Aiden likes to jump in a get silly.It is a gooShareSometimes when I am setting up for a photo especially Aiden likes to jump in a get silly.It is a good way to test the lighting and sometimes I managed to get a 'keeper' such as this one from a few weeks back.
16. December 2015 12:12 by Rene Pallesen 0 Comments Christmas family photo 2015 16. December 2015 12:12 by Rene Pallesen | 0 Comments TweetIt is almost Christmas and I've just completed our annual family Christmas photo and this is the finShareIt is almost Christmas and I've just completed our annual family Christmas photo and this is the final version.It was an interesting process getting to this photo this year. Last year we did a photo in the kitchen of us baking a cake, but this years photo has so many more elements to it.The idea came from a combination of Kim and my ideas. Kim wanted to do a photo of the boys through a crystal ball. I actually bought the crystal ball right after Christmas last year with this year in mind.We did a test in front of the tree in early December which was reasonably okay, but Kim didn't like the feel to it. She wanted more snow (pretty ambitious on a summers day here in Sydney Australia).My idea for our family photo was based on me wanting to do a story of us as a family out in a snow storm 'Looking for Santa'. I had purchased a bag of artificial snow and a Christmas cape a few months back and we had some lanterns downstairs so I pretty much had all the components in place for the shoot.I knew I had to do it as a composite with the boys as there was no way that I would be able to get the photo with all four of us at once. We did the photo over a couple of days, on the first evening (after the kids had gone to bed) I took the one of Kim and myself holding the lantern. Once I had this photo I could show it to Aiden and Lucas so that they knew what we needed them to do (Lucas just had to copy Aiden).I had Gaffa taped markers on the floor so everyone would know where they were supposed t Perfect Moments Photography | A Rene Pallesen Journal Blog Portfolio Packages Contact About Home 10. September 2007 05:39 by Rene Pallesen 0 Comments Birthday Party 10. September 2007 05:39 by Rene Pallesen | 0 Comments Tweetbirthday partyShare Because Kim and I was busy travelling we never really managed to hold a birthday party where friends were invited along. So, in mid august we held a small party celebrating Kim's, Luke's and My birthday. Kim and Luke has got birthday on the same day and I was out travelling at that time, and on my birthday we went skiing in the Snowy Mountains. It was a fun evening at a nice Thai restaurant in North Sydney. Click here to see more pictures from: Birthday party 11. August 2007 10:03 by Rene Pallesen 0 Comments The Gold Coast - Microsoft TechEd 11. August 2007 10:03 by Rene Pallesen | 0 Comments Tweetthe golf coast microsoft techedShareThis week I went to The Gold Coast (Surfers Paradise) to work on our stand at TechEd. This is our biggest marketing push of the year and gives us a chance to talk to more than 2000 people over the 4 days of the conference. To attract people to our stand we had hired to girls to hand out brochures regarding our price draw. This turned out to be really effective. They managed to hand out 1500 brochures in just one hour so we had to get more printed for the second day. And a lot of people came to visit our stand to see what we were all about. It is pretty hard work. Most days start at around eight in the morning and generally didn't finish until around nine at night..and during this time there is a constant flow of people through the stand and constantly people to talk to. On the last evening Microsoft hosted the TechEd party at MovieWorld...free rides, free drinks and lots of actors dressed up at star wars and star trek characters. None of my colleagues wanted to go, so I went by myself and did some of the rides and alng the way I bumped into various people I knew at the conference. And it was a pretty good fun evening and I took a lot of cool photos, so I recommend you see the rest of the photos in the gallery...just click on one of the photos or on the link provided below. But tell you what...it is really nice being back in Sydney where Kim is. Click here to see more photos from: The Gold Coast 11. August 2007 09:51 by Rene Pallesen 0 Comments Playing Golf at The Coast golf club 11. August 2007 09:51 by Rene Pallesen | 0 Comments Tweetplaying golf at the coast golf clubShareSunday Kim, Luke, Sasha and I went to The Coast to play golf. It is a beautiful course located along the cliffline of Little bay. I had just received my new golf clubs (Cobra S9's) and that needed some adjustment so I didn't play particular well, but I had a good day out nevertheless.A lot of the shots on the course are over the water which can be a bit intimidating if you play the course for the first time...but once you have played it a few times then it is not so bad.The day before I was climbing with Andy at Berowra. It is normally difficult to get him outside climbing, but since he went climbing at Krabi in Thailand during his holiday he's been hooked. Berowra is one of the local Sydney Crags located about 30 minutes drive north of the city centre. It is not a tall cliff line, but a lot of the climbs are very crimpy and there is a lot of variation in the climbs. 30. July 2007 12:56 by Rene Pallesen 0 Comments Skiing Australia 2007 30. July 2007 12:56 by Rene Pallesen | 0 Comments Tweetskiing australia 2007Share This weekend it was my birthday and it also happened to be the ski peak season here in Australia. (click here for more photos) A group of us rented a house in Cooma not too far away from the ski fields and apart from a few mechanical problems with my car we had a blast of a time. On the Saturday we went to Perisher. The snow was perfect and a lot of the runs hadn't been groomed so it was still deep powder snow that we were skiing in. Kim, Luke and Karen took lessons in the morning and later in the afternoon I went for a couple of runs with Luke (Soeren didn't make it to the ski area that day). In the evening we were watching a video (I fell asleep 15 minutes into it), and we had birthday cake and wine/beer. The day after all of us went to Thredbo (which in my opinion is much better) and I was skiing with Soeren all day. The girls were having fun skiing down in the beginners area and Luke was skiing by himself higher on the mountain. We left Thredbo at around 3.30pm and arrived back home in Sydney at around 10.15pm....a long drive. I took a couple of videos of Soeren and myself skiing: Video of Rene Skiing #1 Video of Rene Skiing #2 Video of Soeren Skiing #1 Video of Soeren Skiing #2 Click here to see more photos from: Skiing in Australia/SlideShow 11. July 2007 04:34 by Rene Pallesen 0 Comments Denmark 2007 11. July 2007 04:34 by Rene Pallesen | 0 Comments Tweetdenmark 2007ShareOk, it is not just in Holland that they steal with arms a legs. I am not proud to admit that the same seems to happen in Denmark (my birth country)...but more about that later. After Holland I flew a quick trip to Denmark. On the way there in Heathrow Airport I met up with Kim who had spend a couple of days in London with a couple of friends. I was really looking forward to introducing her to my parents. My flight arrived a bit late in London so we arrived to Copenhagen without my luggage which turned up the following day. All the time while in Denmark it was pouring with rain, but we did have one good day in Copenhagen where Kim got to see the sights Fredriksborg Slot, The Marble church, Amalienborg, City Square and City Hall, Stroeget, The little Mermaid, Runde Taarn, Tivoli and Gefion Springvandet. We had lunch at Kultorvet and here Kim got her handbag stolen by a very professional bag snatcher (Latin American or Eastern European looking, dark short hair, wears a dark green suit and will sit down at the table next to you and talk on his mobile. When he leaves he will take your bag). We also spent a couple of days at my grandmothers place where we we had a look at Koldinghus and Trapholt. Kim got to meet most of the family in Jutland (The family on my Dads side). My cousin had a child recently and the christening was taking place while we were visiting, so it gave us an excuse to visit my grandmother. On the way back from Jutland we visited my Uncle and Auntie Eli and Henning on their farm and also had a look at their windmill. One day we went also sailing up through Guldborgsund with my dad and we also went a quick trip to Germany one afternoon with the ferry. It was good to see my parents again, but I also realise that apart from them there is not much left for me in Denmark and I would never be able to live the same lifestyle in Denmark as I do in Sydney Australia. I took a number of videos while in Denmark and also a lot of photos. I can recommend that you click on the following links to see more from Denmark. Video of my Uncles Windmill #1 Video of my Uncles Windmill #2 Video of my Uncles Windmill #3 Video of Kim and my dad picking strawberries Video of sailing with my dad #1 Video of sailing with my dad #2 Video of sailing with my dad #3 Click here to see more photos from:Denmark/ Slideshow 22. June 2007 06:58 by Rene Pallesen 0 Comments Holland 2007 22. June 2007 06:58 by Rene Pallesen | 0 Comments Tweetholland 2007ShareAfter my stay in Athens Greece I am now in Vianen in Holland where our European office is. The purpose with my stay here is to do a bit or coordination and do some planning. Vianen is about 45 minutes drive south of Amsterdam not too far from Utrect. I am staying at the only hotel in Vianen which is located 3-4 kilometers from the office, but fortunately I have been able to borrow one of the company cars.Vianen really is in the middle of no-where. It is a sleepy little town with no major attractions.The hotel here is really weird. None of the floors meet and the numbering system of the rooms is all over the place. It is generally faster to get from one room in the hotel to another by always taking the lift to the ground floor, exit the hotel, enter it elsewhere and then take the lift up again...at least the ground floor is always on the same level.The room itself is nice enough. When I wake up in the morning i wake up looking at a cow paddock with a couple of horses wandering around...did I say that this is out in the sticks? People in holland steal with their arms and legs. Yesterday I asked to get an ironing board and an iron brought to my room.They told me that they could not do that (could be because of the mile long walk from the reception but I don't think so, because the room also don't have an alarm clock and the tv is bolted to the table) and they told me that they now had a special ironing room. The iron and ironing board was bolted with a big chain to the wall.The only positive thing about the hotel is that the breakfast is pretty nice (dinner isn't) and the internet is reasonably priced at 25 Euros for a week. Its is nice to catch up with colleagues although the schedule is pretty busy here. I interviewed a couple of people for the office here and we are going to give an offer to one of the guys.Also a couple of the restaurants in Vianen itself are fairly decent and the fact that I could borrow a car meant that I could get around a bit. 12. June 2007 07:35 by Rene Pallesen 0 Comments Greece 2007 12. June 2007 07:35 by Rene Pallesen | 0 Comments Tweetgreece 2007Share Here in mid June I am in Greece assisting one of our partners on a project involving our software. I arrived Sunday evening and started working Monday morning with the partner. One of my colleagues Karsten is also here and last night we went to this fantastic restaurant called moorings. It is the most fantastic setting right next to the sea, and the food was fantastic. My starter was goats cheese wrapped in prosciutto ham baked in the oven and then served on a bed of wild mushrooms. For mains I had Grober (a fish) and it was really nice. The servings were massive so no chance of leaving hungry. It was a pity that Kim wasn't there joining me...she would have loved the place. The whole dinner including a bottle of wine, pre-dinner drinks for two people amounted to approximately 135 Euros which is really cheap considering the food and the setting. During the week Karsten and I have been pretty busy assisting the partner on the project. Later in the week they requested to get some more of my time to assist them. Since Athens is a nice place to be (more interesting than Vianen anyway) I as happy to stay. This means that my stay will ten days in total before continuing to Holland. During the weekend I had time to do some windows shopping along Ermou street and in the Athens Flea markets as well as visit the Unknown soldiers grave. After that I continued up to see the Acropolis. I was in Greece and Athens about 15 years ago and managed to see a lot of things, but it was nice with a bit of a refresher. One of the things I particularly remember from Acropolis is the Porch of the Maidens. One evening around sunset on the weekend I walked up this hill close to the hotel that has a small chapel on top. There were also a couple of restaurants up there so I decided to sit down and have dinner. The evening view from the hill was fantastic with a view of Acropolis lit up as well as all of the lights of Athens all the way to Pireus. Click here to see more photos from: Athens / Slideshow 21. May 2007 12:12 by Rene Pallesen 0 Comments Golf at Wakehurst Golf Course 21. May 2007 12:12 by Rene Pallesen | 0 Comments Tweetgolf at wakehurst golf courseShare Sunday afternoon Kim, Luke and I went playing golf at Wakehurst Golf Glub near Manly. It was the first time on this course and it was in perfect condition and a very scenic course. Luke joined us and managed to loose a fair amount of balls until he figured out that he should keep his head down to be able to hit the ball. After this he was able to play a fairly decent game...which was excellent, because I had been giving him a bit of a hard time until then (especially after being 30 minutes late for the game). I think I managed to play the first none holes 7-8 strokes over par. After the first nine holes Kim and I continued on our own and managed to play an additional 6-7 holes before it got to dark to play (and Kim was starving). I recorded a couple of videos of us playing. Click on the links below to download them: Me playing golf (first movie) Me playing golf (second movie) Kim Playing golf Luke playing golf 17. May 2007 10:41 by Rene Pallesen 0 Comments Australian Drought 17. May 2007 10:41 by Rene Pallesen | 0 Comments Tweetaustralian droughtShareSince 1998 we have had a drought in Australia. The water supply in Sydney has been declining ever since and early may 2007 the supply was down to around 30% with only about 8 months supply left.On the 17th of May it started raining in most parts of NSW and in many areas the drought now seems to be either over or at least less serious. Here is a radar photo from that day:Our water supplies in Sydney are now up to 57% and still rising. It would be fantastic if we could reach 100%, but we would need a fair bit of rain still.It also means that there is snow falling in the Snowy Mountains, so the skiing season has already kicked in with plenty of natural snow. 15. May 2007 10:52 by Rene Pallesen 0 Comments Romantic Dinner 15. May 2007 10:52 by Rene Pallesen | 0 Comments Tweetromantic dinnerShareA couple of months ago I took Kim out on this really romantic dinner. She was really impressed with my ability to choose the best places in town. I am writing this post so that all you other blokes (or Sheila's) out there can do the same for your loved ones. The place I took her to is this really romantic waterfront restaurant placed on some of the most expensive realestate in Sydney. The cousine is traditional Australian but this place is famous throughout the world and regularly appear in magasines.The food is very reasonably priced and it is almost always possible to get a seat right next to the water. In the evening the waterfront seating is dimly lit and has got enough privacy for some kisses and some cuddles. A lot of famous people have visited the restaurant and they have got photos of some of the people such as Richard Branson (Virgin), John Travolta (Actor,Grease) and many more. The restaurant has got a rich history and has been in this area for many decades now. The service is quick and polite. The restaurant is BYO so I can recommend bringing a good Australian wine or even a couple of chilled beers on a warm summer night. The restaurant doesn't even charge corkage like other prime restaurants do.On valentines day this restaurant still does a-la-carte at their normal prices where other restaurants either have set menus or inflate their prices. Being on a tight budget is no excuse not to go to this place. They have got food that will fit in any budget and I find it hard to believe that you will leave the place hungry. After dinner go for a romantic stroll along the water and you will have won the heart of your loved one (I did). Click here to see where the restaurant is << Older posts Newer posts >> Newer posts12...747576777879808182...9293Older posts SearchInclude comments in search Newsletter Get notified when a new post is published. Enter your e-mail Please enter an e-mail address Please enter a valid e-mail Thank you
10. September 2007 05:39 by Rene Pallesen 0 Comments Birthday Party 10. September 2007 05:39 by Rene Pallesen | 0 Comments Tweetbirthday partyShare Because Kim and I was busy travelling we never really managed to hold a birthday party where friends were invited along. So, in mid august we held a small party celebrating Kim's, Luke's and My birthday. Kim and Luke has got birthday on the same day and I was out travelling at that time, and on my birthday we went skiing in the Snowy Mountains. It was a fun evening at a nice Thai restaurant in North Sydney. Click here to see more pictures from: Birthday party
11. August 2007 10:03 by Rene Pallesen 0 Comments The Gold Coast - Microsoft TechEd 11. August 2007 10:03 by Rene Pallesen | 0 Comments Tweetthe golf coast microsoft techedShareThis week I went to The Gold Coast (Surfers Paradise) to work on our stand at TechEd. This is our biggest marketing push of the year and gives us a chance to talk to more than 2000 people over the 4 days of the conference. To attract people to our stand we had hired to girls to hand out brochures regarding our price draw. This turned out to be really effective. They managed to hand out 1500 brochures in just one hour so we had to get more printed for the second day. And a lot of people came to visit our stand to see what we were all about. It is pretty hard work. Most days start at around eight in the morning and generally didn't finish until around nine at night..and during this time there is a constant flow of people through the stand and constantly people to talk to. On the last evening Microsoft hosted the TechEd party at MovieWorld...free rides, free drinks and lots of actors dressed up at star wars and star trek characters. None of my colleagues wanted to go, so I went by myself and did some of the rides and alng the way I bumped into various people I knew at the conference. And it was a pretty good fun evening and I took a lot of cool photos, so I recommend you see the rest of the photos in the gallery...just click on one of the photos or on the link provided below. But tell you what...it is really nice being back in Sydney where Kim is. Click here to see more photos from: The Gold Coast
11. August 2007 09:51 by Rene Pallesen 0 Comments Playing Golf at The Coast golf club 11. August 2007 09:51 by Rene Pallesen | 0 Comments Tweetplaying golf at the coast golf clubShareSunday Kim, Luke, Sasha and I went to The Coast to play golf. It is a beautiful course located along the cliffline of Little bay. I had just received my new golf clubs (Cobra S9's) and that needed some adjustment so I didn't play particular well, but I had a good day out nevertheless.A lot of the shots on the course are over the water which can be a bit intimidating if you play the course for the first time...but once you have played it a few times then it is not so bad.The day before I was climbing with Andy at Berowra. It is normally difficult to get him outside climbing, but since he went climbing at Krabi in Thailand during his holiday he's been hooked. Berowra is one of the local Sydney Crags located about 30 minutes drive north of the city centre. It is not a tall cliff line, but a lot of the climbs are very crimpy and there is a lot of variation in the climbs.
30. July 2007 12:56 by Rene Pallesen 0 Comments Skiing Australia 2007 30. July 2007 12:56 by Rene Pallesen | 0 Comments Tweetskiing australia 2007Share This weekend it was my birthday and it also happened to be the ski peak season here in Australia. (click here for more photos) A group of us rented a house in Cooma not too far away from the ski fields and apart from a few mechanical problems with my car we had a blast of a time. On the Saturday we went to Perisher. The snow was perfect and a lot of the runs hadn't been groomed so it was still deep powder snow that we were skiing in. Kim, Luke and Karen took lessons in the morning and later in the afternoon I went for a couple of runs with Luke (Soeren didn't make it to the ski area that day). In the evening we were watching a video (I fell asleep 15 minutes into it), and we had birthday cake and wine/beer. The day after all of us went to Thredbo (which in my opinion is much better) and I was skiing with Soeren all day. The girls were having fun skiing down in the beginners area and Luke was skiing by himself higher on the mountain. We left Thredbo at around 3.30pm and arrived back home in Sydney at around 10.15pm....a long drive. I took a couple of videos of Soeren and myself skiing: Video of Rene Skiing #1 Video of Rene Skiing #2 Video of Soeren Skiing #1 Video of Soeren Skiing #2 Click here to see more photos from: Skiing in Australia/SlideShow
11. July 2007 04:34 by Rene Pallesen 0 Comments Denmark 2007 11. July 2007 04:34 by Rene Pallesen | 0 Comments Tweetdenmark 2007ShareOk, it is not just in Holland that they steal with arms a legs. I am not proud to admit that the same seems to happen in Denmark (my birth country)...but more about that later. After Holland I flew a quick trip to Denmark. On the way there in Heathrow Airport I met up with Kim who had spend a couple of days in London with a couple of friends. I was really looking forward to introducing her to my parents. My flight arrived a bit late in London so we arrived to Copenhagen without my luggage which turned up the following day. All the time while in Denmark it was pouring with rain, but we did have one good day in Copenhagen where Kim got to see the sights Fredriksborg Slot, The Marble church, Amalienborg, City Square and City Hall, Stroeget, The little Mermaid, Runde Taarn, Tivoli and Gefion Springvandet. We had lunch at Kultorvet and here Kim got her handbag stolen by a very professional bag snatcher (Latin American or Eastern European looking, dark short hair, wears a dark green suit and will sit down at the table next to you and talk on his mobile. When he leaves he will take your bag). We also spent a couple of days at my grandmothers place where we we had a look at Koldinghus and Trapholt. Kim got to meet most of the family in Jutland (The family on my Dads side). My cousin had a child recently and the christening was taking place while we were visiting, so it gave us an excuse to visit my grandmother. On the way back from Jutland we visited my Uncle and Auntie Eli and Henning on their farm and also had a look at their windmill. One day we went also sailing up through Guldborgsund with my dad and we also went a quick trip to Germany one afternoon with the ferry. It was good to see my parents again, but I also realise that apart from them there is not much left for me in Denmark and I would never be able to live the same lifestyle in Denmark as I do in Sydney Australia. I took a number of videos while in Denmark and also a lot of photos. I can recommend that you click on the following links to see more from Denmark. Video of my Uncles Windmill #1 Video of my Uncles Windmill #2 Video of my Uncles Windmill #3 Video of Kim and my dad picking strawberries Video of sailing with my dad #1 Video of sailing with my dad #2 Video of sailing with my dad #3 Click here to see more photos from:Denmark/ Slideshow
22. June 2007 06:58 by Rene Pallesen 0 Comments Holland 2007 22. June 2007 06:58 by Rene Pallesen | 0 Comments Tweetholland 2007ShareAfter my stay in Athens Greece I am now in Vianen in Holland where our European office is. The purpose with my stay here is to do a bit or coordination and do some planning. Vianen is about 45 minutes drive south of Amsterdam not too far from Utrect. I am staying at the only hotel in Vianen which is located 3-4 kilometers from the office, but fortunately I have been able to borrow one of the company cars.Vianen really is in the middle of no-where. It is a sleepy little town with no major attractions.The hotel here is really weird. None of the floors meet and the numbering system of the rooms is all over the place. It is generally faster to get from one room in the hotel to another by always taking the lift to the ground floor, exit the hotel, enter it elsewhere and then take the lift up again...at least the ground floor is always on the same level.The room itself is nice enough. When I wake up in the morning i wake up looking at a cow paddock with a couple of horses wandering around...did I say that this is out in the sticks? People in holland steal with their arms and legs. Yesterday I asked to get an ironing board and an iron brought to my room.They told me that they could not do that (could be because of the mile long walk from the reception but I don't think so, because the room also don't have an alarm clock and the tv is bolted to the table) and they told me that they now had a special ironing room. The iron and ironing board was bolted with a big chain to the wall.The only positive thing about the hotel is that the breakfast is pretty nice (dinner isn't) and the internet is reasonably priced at 25 Euros for a week. Its is nice to catch up with colleagues although the schedule is pretty busy here. I interviewed a couple of people for the office here and we are going to give an offer to one of the guys.Also a couple of the restaurants in Vianen itself are fairly decent and the fact that I could borrow a car meant that I could get around a bit.
12. June 2007 07:35 by Rene Pallesen 0 Comments Greece 2007 12. June 2007 07:35 by Rene Pallesen | 0 Comments Tweetgreece 2007Share Here in mid June I am in Greece assisting one of our partners on a project involving our software. I arrived Sunday evening and started working Monday morning with the partner. One of my colleagues Karsten is also here and last night we went to this fantastic restaurant called moorings. It is the most fantastic setting right next to the sea, and the food was fantastic. My starter was goats cheese wrapped in prosciutto ham baked in the oven and then served on a bed of wild mushrooms. For mains I had Grober (a fish) and it was really nice. The servings were massive so no chance of leaving hungry. It was a pity that Kim wasn't there joining me...she would have loved the place. The whole dinner including a bottle of wine, pre-dinner drinks for two people amounted to approximately 135 Euros which is really cheap considering the food and the setting. During the week Karsten and I have been pretty busy assisting the partner on the project. Later in the week they requested to get some more of my time to assist them. Since Athens is a nice place to be (more interesting than Vianen anyway) I as happy to stay. This means that my stay will ten days in total before continuing to Holland. During the weekend I had time to do some windows shopping along Ermou street and in the Athens Flea markets as well as visit the Unknown soldiers grave. After that I continued up to see the Acropolis. I was in Greece and Athens about 15 years ago and managed to see a lot of things, but it was nice with a bit of a refresher. One of the things I particularly remember from Acropolis is the Porch of the Maidens. One evening around sunset on the weekend I walked up this hill close to the hotel that has a small chapel on top. There were also a couple of restaurants up there so I decided to sit down and have dinner. The evening view from the hill was fantastic with a view of Acropolis lit up as well as all of the lights of Athens all the way to Pireus. Click here to see more photos from: Athens / Slideshow
21. May 2007 12:12 by Rene Pallesen 0 Comments Golf at Wakehurst Golf Course 21. May 2007 12:12 by Rene Pallesen | 0 Comments Tweetgolf at wakehurst golf courseShare Sunday afternoon Kim, Luke and I went playing golf at Wakehurst Golf Glub near Manly. It was the first time on this course and it was in perfect condition and a very scenic course. Luke joined us and managed to loose a fair amount of balls until he figured out that he should keep his head down to be able to hit the ball. After this he was able to play a fairly decent game...which was excellent, because I had been giving him a bit of a hard time until then (especially after being 30 minutes late for the game). I think I managed to play the first none holes 7-8 strokes over par. After the first nine holes Kim and I continued on our own and managed to play an additional 6-7 holes before it got to dark to play (and Kim was starving). I recorded a couple of videos of us playing. Click on the links below to download them: Me playing golf (first movie) Me playing golf (second movie) Kim Playing golf Luke playing golf
17. May 2007 10:41 by Rene Pallesen 0 Comments Australian Drought 17. May 2007 10:41 by Rene Pallesen | 0 Comments Tweetaustralian droughtShareSince 1998 we have had a drought in Australia. The water supply in Sydney has been declining ever since and early may 2007 the supply was down to around 30% with only about 8 months supply left.On the 17th of May it started raining in most parts of NSW and in many areas the drought now seems to be either over or at least less serious. Here is a radar photo from that day:Our water supplies in Sydney are now up to 57% and still rising. It would be fantastic if we could reach 100%, but we would need a fair bit of rain still.It also means that there is snow falling in the Snowy Mountains, so the skiing season has already kicked in with plenty of natural snow.
15. May 2007 10:52 by Rene Pallesen 0 Comments Romantic Dinner 15. May 2007 10:52 by Rene Pallesen | 0 Comments Tweetromantic dinnerShareA couple of months ago I took Kim out on this really romantic dinner. She was really impressed with my ability to choose the best places in town. I am writing this post so that all you other blokes (or Sheila's) out there can do the same for your loved ones. The place I took her to is this really romantic waterfront restaurant placed on some of the most expensive realestate in Sydney. The cousine is traditional Australian but this place is famous throughout the world and regularly appear in magasines.The food is very reasonably priced and it is almost always possible to get a seat right next to the water. In the evening the waterfront seating is dimly lit and has got enough privacy for some kisses and some cuddles. A lot of famous people have visited the restaurant and they have got photos of some of the people such as Richard Branson (Virgin), John Travolta (Actor,Grease) and many more. The restaurant has got a rich history and has been in this area for many decades now. The service is quick and polite. The restaurant is BYO so I can recommend bringing a good Australian wine or even a couple of chilled beers on a warm summer night. The restaurant doesn't even charge corkage like other prime restaurants do.On valentines day this restaurant still does a-la-carte at their normal prices where other restaurants either have set menus or inflate their prices. Being on a tight budget is no excuse not to go to this place. They have got food that will fit in any budget and I find it hard to believe that you will leave the place hungry. After dinner go for a romantic stroll along the water and you will have won the heart of your loved one (I did). Click here to see where the restaurant is