Sunday, November 28, 2010

Dublin, Ireland, Europe

Last stop is DUBLIN. I chose Dublin because it seems like the best chillout spot. The people have awesome accents and believe in leprachauns. Need I say more?

Pompeii, Italy, Europe

Pompeii is one of the most amazing sites in the world. I've wanted to walk through the streets for as long as I can remember- ever since I went to Rome when I was five with my Mum and she told me about it. I studied Latin in Year 7, and in doing so learnt even more about Pompeii and the eruption of Versuvius. There are so many photos of the people who were made into statues by the sheer speed of the eruption of this super volcano.

Budapest, Hungary, Europe

Being half Hungarian, I consider Hungary my half-home. So, by blood, I am returning to drink coffee in what I consider to be the most beautiful city in Europe (although it does look suspiciously like Paris...). I don't think Hungarians make very good coffee, so I might just chill in a deli for a while and eat some magical salami and other delicious cured meats.

The architecture in Hungary is beautiful- there is nothing else like it (except everywhere else in Europe). I don't think words can really describe how beautiful the city is- especially snow covered in Winter.

Helsinki, Finland, Europe

Finland is the home of the 'best' public education system in the world. They top the charts in Literacy, Maths and Science. All education is FREE- food, school books, pens, everything. Even University is free! Education is compulsory from age 5-6 to 15-16 and students stay at the same school for this period. University is not compulsory, but is recommended. All in all, Finland has got the right idea. Free education is probably the best way to get super over achievers.

Brussels, Belgium, Europe

EUROPE! Finally, best saved till last! Belgium was the second country to legalise Euthanasia.
Their laws do not require any "licence to kill", and the patient must be in "constant and unbearable physical or psychological pain" resulting from accident or incurable illness. Contrary to the Dutch laws, minors cannot request to die. Also, every case MUST be filed for review.  If someone who is not terminally ill requests to die, a third medical opinion must be looked for. Other than Euthanasia, Belgium hasn't really had any revolutionary ideas. The Netherlands is the county which is broadening it's mind and allowing prostitution...

Saturday, November 27, 2010

Vancouver, Canada, North America

Vancouver, home of lots of ice, ice hockey, nice hotels and excellent views. I believe Vancouver to be the most livable city in the world, because it's so clean and beautiful. I would be staying at the Sutton Place Hotel, one of Vancouvers finest hotels and just a step away from downtown Vancouver and millions of chic boutiques. What's not to love about beautiful beaches, breathtaking sunsets and chill air. For someone who loves winter (like me), Vancouver is the perfect place to go for a few days, or a lifetime.

Ikamiut, Greenland, North America

Ikamiut is a small town with population 96 as of 2010. It is located on an island just out of Greenland and is only accessible by helicopter in Winter. Ferrys are available during the Summer months to other settlements, but are rarely used except for transport of edible goods. The town is relatively untouched by current technology and relies mostly on it's hunters to bring back food for them to eat during the colder months. During my stay, I will be learning how to ride a dogsled, going ice fishing and learning the local customs. They do, however, know how to build pretty houses.