Dazed & Confused in Dubai

Happy new Year 2010..Dubai

2010-01-01T02:18:00.000+04:00

WISH YOU ALL A VERY HAPPY & PROSPEROUS NEW YEAR

2010

For me :-
2009 was a year-->

I had tough times @ work.
I learn't simple things, the hard way.
I was in a bitter-sweet relationship.
I was naive at times,but improved each time.
Random things i remember :- visiting my birthplace somewhere in Africa,using a rubber saves us all,bad debts,love & lust,conferences & exhibitions.

2010 will be a year-->

I would want to get married and settled down.
Full of challenges & dreams.
Would wish to Be a more PR person..

Once again....WISH every1 out there a Joyous & Prosperous New year 2010.

getting high in dubai

2009-09-20T19:24:00.000+04:00

eid holidays are here.....
What do I do....
Obviously get high...and not worry about work tomorrow...and the day after...!!
I hope dubai really enjoys the true festive spirit..

listen to the radio-88.8 fm

2009-09-07T15:50:00.001+04:00

88.8 fm -Just discovered this non stop music station..am loving it so far !

Relationships..my viewpoint

2009-09-04T01:44:00.004+04:00

I am gonna write this post,from a guys prospective..or rather my prospective..

i am not an expert on this,i have had only 2..but the pattern was the same..how they evolved,how they ended..the sequence..the pressures..the good things..the bad things..everything was the same..

Phase 1 :- guy meets girl..feels gud..meets again..one thing leads to another..guy feels loved..girl feels even better..

Phase 2 :- things move on..guy and girl start missing each other over silly things...each thinking..this must be love..

Phase 3 :- Girl gets a bit possesive..she needs guy by her side,day-in & day out..the sms'es and fone calls start increasing..it's a bitter-sweet thing..maybe i'm wrong on this one..but yeah it gets a bit too much..atleast for me..maybe i don't deserve love..
what are u doing.?..i am shaving..What did u have for dinner?..chicken..Where?..When are u coming?..Did u notice..u have been a bit irresponsible lately?..Oh yeah..So u are having beer with the guys again?..err..yeah i did that 15 days back..Let's go shopping,i want to buy stuff for my sis?..yeah sure,netime..So ur friends are more important?....sorry,i thought we discussed about "S p a c e"..U didn't call me last nite?..sorry..

Phase 4:- Break up..

Phase 5 :- late nite sms--guy to girl..hey wuzz up?.hope things are ok at ur end..

Maybe this is love....

Hop Fest 2009@The Irish village,Dubai

2009-08-16T22:38:00.003+04:00

Spirits Soaring!

I try never to miss out on beer festivals ;-),specially when in places like The Irish village in Garhoud..

I couldn't go Thursday night..So i head there on Friday,and i was greeted by the longest & most anxious Que i have ever seen[it was extending to the main entrance..!,and then there was the security dragging out some wasted people,some people even had fights,truly beer fest ambiance ;-)..]..So After loitering around a bit & sweating like a pig..i decided to go back home & return back the next day..

So Saturday night it was, At The HOP FEST..and it was a good time..Good live music,Beer from all over the world,Shiny Happy People..

We truly need something like this more often..

3 days in Doha

2009-08-07T21:13:00.006+04:00

I was on a short work-related trip to Doha for 3 days..the old city is pretty laid back low-rise area with narrow streets[ a bit like Manama].The new developments are going on particularly in the West Bay area,which boasts some really well designed Sky scrapers[better than SZR].

Finding a taxi is an ass..so i would recommend taking a car on rent,with a GPS to guide u thru[atleast that's what i did]

Obviously it meant that i checked out some places too..

The Villagio is the latest shopping mall in Doha which every1 is talking about it..It has a man-made canal inside,which also has a couple of gondolas thrown in.Also an ice-rink..Over-all a good mall with a unique design,the ceiling has a Real World Sky pattern which has been pretty well emulated..

Getting into a club in Doha..is a huge hassle..they have the strangest Rules ever,which have been newly implemented..
* Only Qatar Residence Visa holders are allowed to enter [what the hell are tourists are supposed to do...no1 was sure..including the hotel staff!]
* Even People having a valid Residence Visa need to have a Special Photo-id for that particular Club..which has a procedure,and a form has to filled up..
* Tourists are allowed to enter ONLY if they are accompanied with a Residence permit holder..All tourists nevertheless have to have their Passport scanned before entry!

Obviously i had to make friends outside to get entry..and i checked out THE QUBE@ Ramada..Nothing great about the club[maybe it was a weekday,and maybe it was the wrong place!] except that it had a huge dance floor.

Song Playing--> Smoke & ashes by Tracy Chapman

Dusty dubai

2009-08-02T17:50:00.000+04:00

It is so dusty in dubai..I hope the sandstorm fades off early..
Picture - burj al arab on a dusty sunday afternoon

Things to Do in Deira,Dubai..

2009-07-10T01:49:00.008+04:00

The 2 Famous Shawarma Joints,baniyas square-deira

These 2 places are situated in the heart of deira,near baniyas square[also Nasser square]...The most amazing shawarma i have had over the years,and continue to have..[it was priced@aed 2.50/pc when i came to dxb,now it is aed 4.00/pc.]

Beware,u mAy have to wait for up to 30 mins in Que,on Thursday and Friday evenings..But it's definitely worth the wait..the 2 joints fiercely compete with each other..but i still can't say which is better...!!,so try both!..

Does this clock ring a bell?

Song playing -> Spaceman - 4 non blondes

the long wait..

2009-06-29T17:36:00.001+04:00

Here..... I sit waiting..for my car to get serviced...

The wait is long..it's boring...the only positive point about the whole deal->the girl next to me is pretty!![deep blue eyes,tall,the focussed look...she's got it all]

pic-the famous creekside camel

The Mammoth & other stories..!

2009-06-26T01:28:00.004+04:00

Life is movin' on..at variable pace..a hop here,a stumble there..but it still goes on...I need changes...i need my space...I want to continue day dreaming....well rite now all i need is some sleep !

On a lighter side..i was just listening to random music,and these two songs played one after the other..Love is a losing game[Amy winehouse] followed by Sex is on fire[Kings of leon]..hmm..makes sense ;-)!!

what the KT weekend magazine has missed out on...sk8r boys!

2009-06-05T15:16:00.000+04:00

Did any1 check out the khaleej times weekend magazine..with the cover story on deira...?
I pass by each one of the places mentioned ...almost each day...
"This is what they missed out on....the deira sk8r boys!...they do their stuff just behind the twin towers...u can find them almost any day...

When did you last let your heart decide?

2009-05-29T00:57:00.006+04:00

St. Jordi's day-Barcelona memories..

Do we not think twice before getting into a new job/committing to some1/buying a new car/choosing friends,clothes..

Does our mind take over our heart..Don't we always weigh the options..

The question is -->"When did you last, let your heart decide?"..

Song playing-->'Mark Knopfler - Brothers in Arms'[i absolutely love the subtle guitar tones on this track]

PiCtuRes & WoRdS..

2009-05-24T23:58:00.010+04:00

More pics-->Barcelona

A picture says more than a thousand words...Well my pictures,don't say it in '000's ,maybe just in '00's or '0's!!..

Whatever...just spent some time editing,and posting them..It's a relaxing mini-release[not in orgasmic terms though..:P],after a not-so-great day at work..

Song playing--> Oldie.."Bring it on home to me"--Sam Cooke

the magnificent weekend pool!

2009-05-22T01:04:00.000+04:00

Happy or not?

2009-05-18T21:49:00.005+04:00

Random Barcelona Pics

After a hard day at work..as i sit[rather lazily rest my ass on the bed!].alone in my room...with some light music playing in the background...what better to do...post some more pics from Barcelona,write down a couple of things on my mind..

Hmm...what's on my mind..well tonight,just memories of the past..college days..love..lust..crushes..friends..home..family..

All in all i think i have had a happy & simple life so far,with a pinch of salt,and a spoonful of sugar..Or maybe happiness is just a state of mind(as wise men say)...Hmm..wait i think i have written a couple of posts about despair,gloom & loneliness too!!

PS:- has any1 seen the dancing[or was it singing?] fountains@Dxb mall?

The Big Weekend@Irish Village.

2009-05-15T23:35:00.004+04:00

Random Picture-Subway in Barcelona

I went to the Irish village yesterday and had a blast!!..I still pity my friend who was the :appointed: driver for the day,and so wasn't drinking!
Nice ambiance..all drinks@aed19 all night long..good music..I think it is still on till Saturday..

has any1 tried?

2009-05-12T23:05:00.000+04:00

Sambuca with coffee grains...has any1 tried it...it saw the recipe on the bottle...and believe me it ain't that bad...

Other general things-
*work is getting a little better...maybe it's just a temporary thing...but it's better than december....
*rents have come down in dubai...and I am sure every1 agrees!
cheers and tc..

Sculptures & more!

2009-05-07T18:18:00.006+04:00

Just 2 more pics,showing some visually appealing sculptures from Barcelona..Antoni gaudi was this genius architect who has designed a lot of stuff in Barcelona.

I have liked traveling always..but i never was a serious art lover..But when sculptures excite me,then either they are too good..or i have just started developing a taste for art...

Whatever....the song playing is Nothing man by Pearl Jam....and i absolutely love this song..
"Some words when spoken...can't be taken back...
Walks on his own...with thoughts he can't help thinking...".....

Take home Messages from Barcelona!!

2009-04-30T19:40:00.005+04:00

Hmmmm.....

Take home T's

My trip to barcelona....snippets from here & there will follow soon....

from barcelona with love!

2009-04-22T18:37:00.000+04:00

Am currently on a short trip to barcelona..have been walking the streets and...

It's like I am falling in love over and over again...With nature ,the beaches,the gorgeous girls and freedom...
I truly wish I was born in spain...Becoz it's different and I mean it!
From the magnificent views to the local culture,it continues to amaze me...
Pictures will follow...

this is it!

2009-04-16T23:58:00.000+04:00

Hey,
This is one of those pefect toilets.
with the rugs and all.......

This week in pictures!

2009-04-10T22:13:00.006+04:00

I am too lazy to write today..so i decided to edit some random snaps taken during the past few days.

And as the laziness fades away..Things that have been happening in my life -->
** My hair is turning grey...stress,the weather,water,incorrect shampoo --Who do i blame?
** The Strange "Spatial" Relationship featuring Mr User/Loser & Ms. User/Loser..i still don't know which one applies for whom,hence the "Bi-variate".
** A trip to Spain by the end of this month could be on the cards...i am keeping my fingers crossed...

PS:- Has any1 tried the "TIKKI PUKKA PUKKA" at Trader's vics(Madinat,The Marina walk,Crowne plaza)..And better still the "TITANIC",which is not mentioned in their menu..(..just ask for it,and they happily get it).
Both of the above are potent enough to knock your socks off!

Wish i Could!!

2009-04-03T02:50:00.003+04:00

I WISH i could..:-->

* Do a freestyle stunt like the dude above...[i wish i had learnt how to ski!]
* Be a rockstar...(including the sex,drugs & alcohol).
* Work for the UN or Do something for betterment of the human race while i work..
* Take a 4 day vacation every month..[i am not asking for much,am i?]
* Think from a broader prospective.
* Have A gigantic bathroom all for myself,with a huge tub,a jacuzzi and a good music system!.
* Own a sea-side bar on some island.

PS:- If you want to do up ur pics with cool captions like the one above use www.picnik.com [Courtesy:- http://juliephotography.blogspot.com]

Break on through to the other side!

2009-03-28T15:06:00.000+04:00

I finally am doing it..i am just about to board the critically acclaimed RTA water bus service for the first time..I am the only passenger waiting for the next waterbus at the al seef station as I type this!..[Becoz of my lazy ass buds !]

Ok the bus just arrived,,there are some passengers on board already..they are doing the creek trip it seems...let me take some more inside snaps...enjoy!

perfect weather

2009-03-27T18:54:00.000+04:00

I wish I could describe this feeling...just makes me feel better..as I roam the streets of deira,and watch the world go by.

There are certain things in life which just change ur mood altogether..a hot shower,a session at the gym,good weather,well made Dessert,music..well all these seem to work for me any day..!..offcourse how can I forget..chilled beer;-)

hailstorm in dubai....live update

2009-03-25T20:37:00.000+04:00

Blurry fotos...but i just took em!..such is dubai,,.unpredictable always!

Why i like Dubai..

2009-03-20T23:28:00.001+04:00

Some random things from the top of my head,showing My love for Dubai..
* I got my first job here.
* I Made Some really great friends here.from all over the world.
* First car also--HERE
* First Desert Safari - HERE(where else!)
* Bike week..Here...where else could i see the world's best bikes..

* Have attended some real great concerts here..

* The list can continue....

Who has the key?

2009-03-11T21:48:00.002+04:00

I often walk by this,so i decided to post this!..I find it hard to imagine,this was put up a long long time ago...

it's time to move forward!

2009-03-07T13:08:00.000+04:00

It definitely is time to move on..You can draw ur inspiration from just about anything..!this sign post for instance..:-)

Aren't we all sick and tired of hearing recession...!

I want to write An amazing post!

2009-03-06T01:30:00.003+04:00

Today's one of those nights..when i feel..i have all the perfect ingredients of a good post.. A good post can be about anything..It can be about the girl you had a crush on in high school,or why ur new pants are too tight in the wrong places!..Or Better still why you always dreamt of being a rock star all ur life..

Some posts trigger a brainstorm..some make you laugh..other's move you to tears..Some poems i read,are really touching(though i am not the poetic kind)..some of the photographs which i have seen,in blogosphere are simply mind blowing..I have learnt a lot of things....what's in. & what's not..places & people..Culture & religion..Partying & playing..

Ok...the above was just one spontaneous post..i don't know if it makes sense at all...hope every1 enjoys the long weekend..[sadly i will be working this saturday]...

another night out

2009-03-02T23:58:00.000+04:00

Me and my pal had just another night out,,tonite,,,
It was majestic hotel again...we first went in for the all u can drink and eat session@146/person followed by rock and roll at the music room...
It was good,,,lot of inside stuff came out.. Deep dark secrets served on a platter!

Race day at dubai autodrome

2009-02-27T15:47:00.000+04:00

This is a live post..the cars sure make a lot of noise!

Random pics..

2009-02-22T22:56:00.000+04:00

These are just random pics taken over the past week or so..Such is life in dubai..it's a mixture of a little bit of everything..

The flowers are in front of rashid hospital main entrance,the green leaves were snapped while being lazy and sprawled out at mamzar beach park this friday...Dubai airport terminal 3,departure was snapped this morning,while I was their to drop a friend..

Ps--has anyone noticed coast 103.2 fm has been playing nonstop music for atleast 2 days now..no talk..just good music ..i heard there has been some ownership row..

Song playing on coast fm as I type- Unwell by matchbox 20.... I LiKE!

happy valentines day!

2009-02-15T00:17:00.001+04:00

Wishing every1 a very happy valentines day!

The al ain airshow

2009-02-03T04:37:00.000+04:00

It was a good display..I was amazed at how the miniature rc jets performed better and faster than the real ones..

They also tried to throw in variety with the car chase sequence performed by hollywood stuntmen..

Creek side

2009-01-29T10:30:00.001+04:00

This was taken at around 10.30 am this morning..
man...i feel so gray today!

That Easy Feeling!

2009-01-24T23:43:00.005+04:00

Ok,the Video is not that great!!(it has cross-dressers,prostitutes,drugs,booze,random doped musicians,swans and a lot more)..Actually the original was done by a band called the Commodores(i just found out!)..

But the Song is great..it perfectly Defines that easy feeling..this evening i was driving on al khail road this evening..the traffic was smooth(it was saturday plus i hear a lot of people have already left dubai),the breeze soothing..and this song was playing on the radio..e

That feeling set in...i tilted my seat back..moved down to the slow lane(who wants to live life in the fast lane anyways!)..and sang out aloud..

Abu Dhabi exhibition center

2009-01-21T23:58:00.001+04:00

Today was a visit to the abu Dhabi exhibition center..for the renewable energy[yay,think green!] exhibition being held there..it is one massive venue..must be definitely double the size of the dubai world trade center exhibition halls..

There were actually two exhibitions underway..guess what the other one was-> The Bride show!!..lots of emirati women in designer abayas were heading that way..

Life is lemon,i want my money back...-->

Barracuda beach resort,cheap booze and life

2009-01-19T01:09:00.001+04:00

This friday afternoon I head for Barracuda beach resort in uaq...now everyone knows about the amazing booze supermarket there[cheap*15/bottle of turkish vodka* ,great variety,easy come & easy go]..

But this time around we soaked the sun and had chilled stella pints by the beach..at the aquarius restaurant..which is also a part of the resort...u can see the menu,and realise how sipping beer by the beach in the uae can be affordable too!

overall a relaxing weekend...nice place..should be coming here more often..it,s definitely a retreat from the city frenzy..

My usual abra snap.

2009-01-15T20:57:00.000+04:00

This is my usual abra station snap[taken this evening] ,.over the years I have accumulated so many..many lost in old cellphones or layers of folders on my laptop.

on any given day..i am always happy to cross using this traditional way!

am now heading for a movie..not yet decided which one....

The boat

2009-01-10T19:34:00.000+04:00

This boat is situated in front of the dubai museum in bur dubai..nothing great about the picture!
Was just trying my hand at blogging from
My cell.

First week into the New Year

2009-01-08T23:57:00.005+04:00

Shiny- Happy- People Still Care!!:- Saw this beautifully written notice on a supermarket window in Bur Dubai.

It's been one week into the new year..How has it been for everybody..My General update:-->

* Am simply loving my new Nokia E71..Have subscribed to etisalat pushmail[cheaper alternative to blackberry,specially intended for non-serious business users ;-)..just aed 40/month,for unlimited email access!]..Can email any pic taken in an instant..So the next time i see anything crazy..me gonna snap it & post it here..

* I can write a very very long paragraph..on how work is dull & tiring & affected..but i don't want to..there's more to life than just whining about all the sad things!..

* As i read my point(*)#2,how my heart want's to pour out all the crap that's been happening with me..and how my mind is stopping me..or is it vice Versa!..

* Music..i am simply loving 2 tracks by Kings of leon ->"Use somebody" and "Sex on Fire"..None of them actually depict who i am ;-)..i just like these tunes,i like the guitar riffs and the vocalist is great too!..

* The other day i was thinking..what should i aim for in life.."have little & be content"(be the lazy chill-ass dude,happy go lucky kind )..or "Aim high & get there"(be the ultra focussed,cutting-edge f**-ass,no-more-shit kind)..I am sure every1 goes through similar thought processes..or am i the only one who is DaZed & conFused here!

Happy New Year 2009.

2008-12-28T00:09:00.005+04:00

* As the year draws to a close[ 7 minutes away,yes i am at home(my conscious decision!)],i was just reminiscing about the good times & the bad...i have had during this year..

It has been a tumultous year..I have been loved by some...hated by others..I made some really good('kick-ass") decisions..and some "doomed" ones too..

I hope the year ahead brings joy & peace to me & the world around me..I hope people stop fighting for silly reasons..I hope there will be no war anymore..I hope we all leave our ego behind and work for a common good..I hope things change for good..

HAPPY NEW year every1

Barry's bench,2:23 am walk & other stories..

2008-12-18T22:55:00.004+04:00

Quesadilla- looks good,smells good & tastes even better!

I head out for Barry's Bench@ The Arabian Courtyard hotel tonite..It's a pretty neat Tex-mex place..They had soft Christmas music playing and the interiors are pretty relaxing.

My 4th time there,and i simply love the food,and they have some pretty cool promotions on drinks too(sorry Thursday is no promotion day)..and free valet parking(u don't expect to find parking in Bur Dubai even if there is a earthquake or a killer virus quarantine-warning or whatever!)..

This was followed by nite walking on Deira streets at around 2:00 am..it felt good..with music in my ears(random fm)..feeling the winter breeze..watched people getting into Macdonald's to have their late nite-bite...some just for the late nite AED1 ice-cream!...And i think they are moving HSBC bank from where it was in Nasser Square..they have removed the landmark HSBC Sign board..

Other stories :-->* Was a hectic week * It's a strange contradiction..the weather is getting better..i am generally best of my moods during this part of the year..but work-wise the much talked about economic recession is just beating the crap out of me! * Being single in this wonderful weather is definitely not what i want to be!! * I should be cutting down on my alcohol intake..Liver cirrhosis..Not me!!

Sleep...

Writer's block..

2008-12-14T23:00:00.004+04:00

Here i sit staring at the laptop screen..i try to punch in a couple of words...then hit the backspace key,to erase everything...i have changed the title of this post 3 times already..

Is this writer's block!!??

Wikipedia say it's due to anxiety or depression...Which one is affecting me?Cmmon man..i don't want to see a shrink to reach a diagnosis!!!

Lightening Crashes..

2008-12-06T00:40:00.003+04:00

Things i recall , i did today...

* Watching the lightening strike across the horizon from a 10th floor flat(my friend's place) in Al qusais..

* Binge drinking..Kronenbourg 1664..."occassionaly laced with johnnie walker's red label (citation needed)"

* Making comments on the lovely weather numerous times..

* Watching a movie "In Bruges" starring Collin Farel...Amazing movie,good humor & drama..The "F" word has been used excessively..but it is fuckin' effective!

* For the first time this season,turning on the heater on in my car..brr..it was cold..

Signing off...crashing..

Doha...u wanted me to stay back?

2008-12-02T23:10:00.003+04:00

HAPPY NATIONAL DAY

Thanks to Doha's visa rules(there are 41 very specific professions,that are entitled to Visa on arrival @Doha Airport)..i was turned down from the check-in counter at the Dubai airport this morning..

Now i can continue bitching..but i know i lack planning(i don't remember booking a hotel in advance,changing currency before departing or checking the weather)..i should have known the rules upfront..

Other people who were not allowed to board :- 3 people had their UAE residence visa expiring in less than 6 months,1 guy forgot his credit card,and din even remember the Cc number(ok...this is sad,specially when u paid for the ticket,why are they so strict about it..)

What better to Celebrate UAE's National Day..The Locals are so dressed up today-->,caps,bandanas,mufflers,ribbons,abayas,head-scarves,..every1 is sporting the Uae flag..The cars have flags,some even had graffiti on 'em..Buildings are adorning glittering lights..Red,Green,white..U can feel it in the Air..

The Moon is a Beautiful Crescent tonight..

I am hoping that this country navigates itself well throught the Global Crises,people stay safe & jobs are secure..I have been here for more than 3 years now..and i don't want to leave this early ;-)..

Off to Qatar

2008-12-02T00:02:00.002+04:00

I am off to Qatar for a couple of days..It's already mid week..sigh..and i am working on National day..I don't know where i'll be staying..who all i am supposed to meet..I am just going,to explore the possibilties(that's what it's technically called!).

Thursday & Friday nite...i was at the Irish Village..Just hung around with pals..Good Live Cover music,they had a nice stage setup in front of the pond..the band was good(played covers from oasis,eagle eye cherry,greenday,red hot chilly peppers..just to name a few)..People were drunk(post Rugby 7's)..Taxi que was L O N G..i was back home early both days..Work resposibilties etc..

The weather is getting better..my window is open in the nights..no more artificial aircon for me..I need the fresh air on my face when i wake up!!

More exhibition

2008-11-27T21:11:00.003+04:00

Exhibition...handing out bags..giving 'em catalogs..acting goodie-goodie...social smile always on..

Common Questions asked @ the exhibition.

Do u manufacture in the UAE?
Yes we do.
How are your prices?
They are very competitive sir,
Do u have an agent in Qatar,Bahrain or even Sudan for that matter?
No sir,we are searching for strong partners.
How is the quality?
It's very good sir..we have the following certifications..1.2.3......

That's Exhibition business for me...PLUS ...u get to see a lot of hot looking girls...;-)..

But it's exhausting..i am glad it's over..here i am back@ home..feeling lazy and comfy..The weekend is here..sadly just 1 day...i don't have the priveledge to work in 5days-a-week company!!..

The Big 5

2008-11-25T22:25:00.003+04:00

I am pretty tied up this week at the BIG 5 exhibition being held up at the World Trade center..Welcome to the largest construction exhibition in the middle east..And not to mention..The massive traffic snarls,the tedious taxi ques,parking the car 1 km away from the venue..everything goes hand in hand!!.

They have an exhibitor's party on the first day..Pass allows ONE,Booze & Buffet Dinner on the house,People from atleast 30 different countries..Venue was Dubai Marine's Club next to Barasti..

The shuttle buses were the BIG BUS tour buses..since the weather is fine..i sat on the upper level..and enjoyed the view on the way back.

The breeze tonite..

2008-11-21T23:49:00.004+04:00

The twin towers(also called Rolex towers)

The weather tonite is really good..

I am back from a short drive,in my "lil" baby(any small car enthusiasts here!,sadly few in materialistic Dxb!),with both the windows open,and FM stereo blaring(shuffling between Dubai 92,103.2 & 104.8). It felt nice to feel the breeze on my face..For a moment i was lost..all my work-related worries were left behind..

On my way home..I saw..** An African man wearing a bright blue suit,with stars on it! ** A Chinese girl jogging past the Iranian Launches("big wooden boats"),by the creek.

Dubai..truly cosmopolitan..

What is love..

2008-11-21T01:25:00.004+04:00

I have been trying to figure out this for quite somewhile now...

It's just a state of feel-good when u are around some1,thinking of him/her,reminiscing of good times spent together..It can be with reference to any1,even your parents,pets...It's just there..

When i was in college..i had friends head over heels in LovE with each other..I used to think,"Man..this is the perfect couple,nuthing can do them apart"...Over the years..i am sad to say..all my predictions were not very accurate..Many of them have moved on..different countries...some married other people..some have moved on to new relationships...some are still single in remorse..

It simply..is strange..how things change in this fast moving world..Where has the love gone?..Or was it ever there>?..Is it just a way to spend good "temporary" time..while it lasts..Is it a day out for "butterfiles" in ur stomach..Is it a day-dream...Does it keep getting better..till u realize it's too late...

Just a bunch of random thoughts...

It has been a debate with poets,historians,psychologists,song-writers..Numerous other people from all walks of life..have been singing-dancing-talking LOVE all the time...Each one has his/her own viewpoint..

** Welcome to the planet--welcome to existence---Dare you to Move by Switchfoot"** -->Heard this song on Fm,while cross the Floating bridge..

Bahrain,Arak Haddad & Other stories.

2008-11-17T23:49:00.003+04:00

Ok folks(if any1 ever reads my blog!)..i was in bahrain for a couple of days on a
"not-so-fruitful-recession-prone" business trip..This is what happened...

** I took the cheapest booze available on duty free on my way there...18 bucks for 500ml Arak haddad(Jordanian liqour with approx 45% Alcohol content)..it sure hit me!!

** I had the getaplana@nando's bahrain (adilya area)..after getting drunk...faint memories though!!

** I roamded around the streets listening to random Fm stereo(bahrain has voice of america & AFN europe on Fm),on my Creative zen..

** I watched "Almost Famous"(repeat watch) and " Under the tuscany sun"..on hotel Tv...Almost famous sure is a different kinda movie..must watch!!..

Sadly no pics to post.!

Corona Extra.

2008-11-10T00:05:00.005+04:00

Hmm....

Corona Extra with lemon..it's a pleasure of it's own kind..The taste just lingers on...It's umistakenably different....Apart from the rest...Friends & foes together....The jewel beer...Games are for losing,life is for livin'!...Missin'g Good friends...Living in the moment..Did ur heart decide?...

Corona PR/Marketing guys are u listening..I think i have coined enuff punch lines here...some1 please hire me..;-)

Atlantis@the Palm

2008-11-06T17:08:00.003+04:00

This week has been dreadful at work..So i decided to take my evening off & headed for the world-acclaimed ATLANTIS last evening...

* Only the Aquaventure(water park) & the lost spaces( portion of the aquarium,which has special breed of fish!) have a ticket entry of AED 285 & AED 100 respectively..The Rest of the portion is open to all visitors..In fact last evening it seemed more like a mall,with people & kids roaming around..window shopping & fine dining at the numerous outlets there.

* Truly a marvelous architecture..Amazing lighting..it sure feels like fantasy land..

*The Club@ATLANTIS --"SAnctuary"..the Biggest in Dubai..It definitely was huge & EMPTY..the staff said it's getting people on weekends..(i doubt)..>But it surely has the potential to be one of the most sought after night spots in Dubai.

* The Aquarium@Dubai Mall(yes,i visited that too on inaugral day,what better to do during recession times!)..has more species of fish than Atlantis..my first instance verdict.

Why am i babbling about fish..:-*...

On a personal front...it's been pretty stagnant..am bored & lonely all the time..:-(

Random thoughts

2008-11-03T23:38:00.000+04:00

Random thoughts-->

* I want to live my life by the beach,listening to all good mellow music..from norah jones to subtle indie rock..to acoustic guitar tracks..not wanting to worry about what the next minute holds...

* I want to be loved for what i am..

* I want to be good & do good...

Signing off..

Qd's@Dubai Creek Golf Club..

2008-10-30T22:36:00.005+04:00

Dubai Creek Golf Club

This evening i visited Qd's at the Dubai Creek Golf Club(just take the first Right exit from floating brige). with some of my friends..I was there early..around 7 pm.

A nice place to have a drink or shisha..I had cocktails-->I had a pitcher(yes a pitcher!)..of Creek Party followed by a pitcher of Qd's Mule..followed by a pint of Fosters..

I am hungry now!!

Lazy..

2008-10-29T22:40:00.002+04:00

My latest fav..Mojito

This strange lazy feeling is setting in...The weather is getting better,work is pretty slow..Perfect time for a lazy vacation..

I need to get away from the office air con,and sit by the beach..feel the breeze..for a week..and then come back to work..!

Deep Inside of you

2008-10-28T21:49:00.003+04:00

Look Deep inside of you..and you will realize..-->

*What you were worrying about last nite..is nothing but an illusion..

*The schoolmate you had a crush on..the one you dream' t of marrying and living ever after with, was nothing but a loosing game..

* What old & wise people say on many occasions can be the secret of a lot of bewildering mysteries.

* Life is long..it has it's ups & downs..what is important is to be stable & be calm through tough & easy times...

* Ok..i love this song...-->

"Deep Inside Of You"
3rd Eye Blind


When we met light was shed
Thoughts free flow you said you've got something
Deep inside of you
A wind chime voice sound, sway of your hips round rings true
Echo's deep inside of you
These secret garden beams changed my life so it seems
Fall breeze blows outside, i don't bring stride
My thoughts are warm, and they go deep inside of you
Oh yeah
And I never felt alone
Alright, alone...alone
Till I met you
Friends say I've changed
I don't listen cause I live to be
Deep inside of you
Slide of her dress, shouts in darkness
I'm so alive I'm
Deep inside of you
You said boy make girl feel good
But still...deep inside...STILL!
I've never felt alone
Till I met you
I'm alright on my own
Till I met you
And I'd know what to do if I just knew what's coming
I would change myself if I could
I'd walk with my own people if I could find them,
And I would say that I'm sorry to you,
I'm sorry to you, but I don't want to call you,
But then I want to call you cause I don't want to crush you,
But I feel like crushing you and it's true
I took for granted you were with me,
I breath by your looks and you look right through me
But we were broken and didn't know it
But we were broken and didn't know it
But we were broken and didn't know it
But we were broken and didn't know it
Right...oh, what's right?
Something's gone you withdraw and I'm not strong like before I was
Deep inside of you
I can go nowhere I burn candles and stare at a ghost
Deep inside of you
And some great need in me, starts to bled
I've lost my self there's nothing left, it's all gone
Deep inside of you
Deep inside of you

Creek side -Deira

2008-10-24T14:27:00.005+04:00

Deira Creek side at night

Deira Creek Side -afternoon

In To The Wild

2008-10-19T23:43:00.003+04:00

Christopher McCandless(his last self=portrait which was found undeveloped in his camera,after his death)

Last night,i saw "In to The Wild" on my Laptop..It sure moved me.It's based on a real-life story of a young boy,who shuns wealth,fame,family & friends to be a wanderer in to the wild.

Great acting,amazing scenery & definitely thought provoking.

** http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0758758/ :- IMDB link ( for the movie)
** http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Christopher_McCandless :- For the real-life story.

The Global Recession

2008-10-17T00:08:00.002+04:00

Yes,i am facing it...I work in the Steel Industry.It's in Doldrums,every morning all i hear is that the prices have gone further down.Production has been cut in all the major steel mills of the world,in order to stabilize the market but is it working?

Reputed Customers are backing out of old contracts..Jebel Ali port has 1 million tons of unclaimed steel cargo..port congestion..the bankers,who are affected by the global credit crunch,have started playing their games with customers..

I heard the property market in the UAE,has crashed too..I don't want to paint a gloomy picture but i seriously think that these are testing times.My survival instincts have already started kicking in....

Is this the first serious thing i have written>>?

Random things to do on a Friday afternoon

2008-10-10T13:31:00.002+04:00

Here i am staring at the screen,thinking of random things to do on a boring Friday afternoon..

1. Head out for brunch..I know long's bar has a good deal,but i am too lazy to go that far,plus i think i already have alcohol in my system(from last nite,some strange drink from Azerbaijan called Apapat(pronounces Ararat!) )!.I heard waxy o connor's has an amazing brunch,but no matter what they are always reserved & packed.

2. Browse thru random tabs on www.911tabs.com and try to hone your guitaring skills..I took 2 weeks of lessons,7 years back..and i still feel that i can do it,it i make some sincere effoerts ;-)!

3. Clean the room,wash my dirty underwear,arrange the books...oh..this can be done any day of the week!

4. Go thru Facebook,and see what random people all over the world are doing...where distant not so known friends have been loitering around.

5. Download a good movie from www.torrentpond.com ,but it takes some time...only suitable for watching tomorrow!

6. yipee...www.Last.fm ,i finally found what i was looking for..This thing helps me discover new artists,who match my taste..Incredible sound quality too..and eveyrthing is free..

Pedestrian Underpass-->Bur Dubai to Deira,under the creek

2008-10-09T00:06:00.002+04:00

Seems like i am doing research on various methods to travel b/w BurDubai & Deira,or rather cost-effective ways(avoiding Salik!)

Ok folks,today i accidentally bumped into this one ,while searching for parking near Gold souk(which is a nightmare like everywhere else)..I ended up parking in an unofficial parking place,which was criss-crossed by hundreds of haywire-parked cars..

After parking i actually saw a board saying "Pedestrian Underpass to Bur Dubai"..Out of curiosity i followed the path and yes there is a walk-way right under the creek!!..So Now we can cross to the other side for Free,although it's a bit hot & humid down there!

See it here-->Wikimapia link

RTA's Water Bus Initiative Vs Abra

2008-10-05T22:55:00.004+04:00

This Evening,i was just having my usual stroll by the creek(Deira side).I pass by the Abra Station,which is really crowded at any time of the day,with people getting off & getting on Abra's.

The convenience of taking an Abra to cross to Bur Dubai & vice-versa is unsurpassed.I know at peak traffic times,to get to Bank Street,i would rather walk after crossing the creek via Abra.

Around 6 months (or even more)back the RTA launched the Water Bus,in order to cater to the needs of high end consumers or better still,earn more revenue.But it simply hasn't been working out well.Even today,i saw a total of 3 passengers on board the Glamorous Over-hyped Water Bus,as compared to the crowd of passengers who used the Abra.

I know the reasons :-

* Why would any1 go through the hassle of buying a ticket(more expensive than the 1 AED Abra ticket),from a booth and then wait for the Water Bus to arrive.

In Contrast U need not buy a ticket aboard an Abra.Just pay 1 Aed to the Abra Driver,and Hey Presto..It's Paperless!!

* Who would pay more bucks for an Air conditioned & Tinted Water Bus.

There's nothing like feeling the breeze on your face,while aboard an Abra.As you gaze across the horizon,you see the Sun setting down.The orange reflection of the sunset off the sea,or off the Glass on NBD building!, has been one of my most pleasant evening views.

General Update

2008-10-03T13:18:00.005+04:00

Gifted t-shirt

I think it's about time,i blogged about random thoughts that come to my mind..

* Ramadan is over..Eid was here..ok it's gone already.Back to the grind.How was Ramadan..actually pretty chilled out.Used to get free from work early..say around 2.00 pm or so..Used to have a nap,then headed for the gym(yes,i am apparently a member of Fitness first for the past ,god knows how many months..they have this strange membership plan,which entices you to join in the beginning,but then they just keep debiting your credit card each month,and if u wanna quit,it's even more difficult..and if are a procrastinator like me..sigh..things can never change!!)..

So i finally decide to put it to good use,and have been gym ming religiously for the past month..What's interesting is what happened after the gym..I used to Booze around( i strangely discovered that u tend to get on a high,even if you have a single pint of beer after gym!,maybe it's a strange mix of the endorphins released after a workout + alcohol in your system)..I can safely say i have consumed more alcohol in the past month than my usually monthly intake..

The Equation--> Lost Calories at Gym = Gained Calories from Booze. So basically i am back at square one!.

Ps:-A good place to head out for a night out in Ramadan in Long's Bar @ the Towers Rotana on Sheikh Zayed Hotel.They had Happy Hours running all night long..

And Never Mix Vodka with Beer in a Cocktail..It simply doesn't work!

* I finally finished watching "Seven Years in Tibet".It was lying on my laptop for long..And it has taken around Seventy days to Finish it!!..Have been watching it in bits & pieces..Though i must say,it's a ncie movie.

* I have discovered a good radio station to listen to :--http://www.oldiesradionet.com/classicrock.asx

* Peanut Butter Jam is starting from tonight..It will sure rekindle my love for Good Live Music.

* The other night,i was reminiscing about the few times i had been to the Indie Rock Nights @iBO(a garage club at the Millennium Airport Hotel which has closed down now,because they wanted to build something there)..Those were truly amazing head banging nights with Free entry..

I was wondering if similar nights do happen elsewhere now..

* On a serious note,i am hoping the World Economic Recession,doesn't affect Dubai.I am praying people don't lose jobs,and the bubble doesn't burst..'Coz as long as it's intact we all are living a good life...

Random St Patrick's Day Snaps

2008-09-12T22:45:00.001+04:00

Here are some old Random St PAtrick's Day Celebration Pics from Irish Village..Sir Bob Geldof performed..It was a good memorable day..and i was smashed out of my face..PS:- i don't know any1 in these pics!

Finally I did travel..

2008-09-08T22:38:00.006+04:00

Guess where?

Yes,i have been Traveling,i visited 2 countries in the last 20 days..Mixture of Work + Leisure i must say..I met some old friends,visited some serene places..made some good decisions & some bad ones..

Above are just some random pictures..taken during these days(if some1 ever reads this post feel free to guess!,bloggers with correct entries will get a complimentary coffee,beer,pizza..whatever!)

But good things don't last forever,and am Now back to work,Ramadan has started,so everything is slow..Specially gets boring in the evenings...

When did you last let your heart decide?

2008-08-22T08:30:00.002+04:00

I was wondering..this question pops in my mind every now & then..

Do we really follow our hearts..or it's just our agile mind..the surroundings & a plethora of other factors around us which moderate our decisions & thoughts..Food for thought..

I remember when i was in high school,i liked this girl..oh...it's a long story...maybe some other time..

Does music touch you...#1

2008-08-10T23:58:00.006+04:00

Good Music has managed to send chills down my spine..I will be covering and writing about a few songs that have really moved me..This could be a series,as there are just so many..

You get the goose bumps..It's that moment..the lyrics just touch you somewhere deep inside,or u just feel nostalgic about a past event..u just connect with the song..that guitar,bass or sax solo resonates within u..the singer's emotion gets u engrossed..

Below are just 2 really good songs by THE BOSS himself(a.k.a Bruce Springsteen),that i associate with..all the words above just hold true with these...

Secret Garden-Soundtrack from Jerry Maguire
There's someththing about the sax solo in the outtro that really hits me..i wish it could continue for 20 minutes..

Streets of Philadelphia - soundtrack of the Tom Hanks starer "Philadelphia"
The drum beat..the lyrics..this song is just fabulous..he has put some true emotion in this song..

Where to go & FM radio..

2008-08-08T22:48:00.005+04:00

I Need a BREAK..yes i do...Work has been slow..i feel underutilized..or maybe i simply am not performing upto the mark..I am still deciding where to go..what to do..i need a vacation..and i know i can get 1..

In the evenings while i am driving back from work,just randomly shuffling thru fm stations(no,my car doesn't have the latest 6-cd changer or the touchscreen Dvd player !,though it does have tape,but i don't have cassettes!)..

104.8 fm :- Channel 4,this is DJ moe..playing ur requests....sms 050-7461048...or call...hellllooooo...what can i do for u..Apologize- timbaland...goes out to u ,and every1 who's listening...

Dubai 92:- The evening session with Dan..we have Adele..coming up next...peee...the traffic update...moving slow on emirates road towards sharjah...trade center roundabout...

103.2 fm :- Coast fm--good music,less ads..though recently coast fm has done a massic ad campaign,i have seen their adverts on lots of hoardings & taxis..so now the on-air adverts are increasing as more sponsors flock in!

99.3 fm :- Classic hits--Radio 2:- i love RJ Suzy wonder..she has a deep & meaningful voice..she chooses the right music...

104.4 fm :- virgin radio:- 10 hits in a row...choose your music..usual tracks on air these days are "kanye west & estelle- American boy" , "kid rock- all summer long","maroon 5 feat. rihanna song-----"..and the list goes on...

Life has it's ups & downs...music wades me thru it all..

Tiny Dancer--Elton john(Movie-Almost Famous)

Easy Listening and the Jebel Ali shooting Club..

2008-08-01T15:04:00.004+04:00

Last Nite it was the Jebel Ali shooting Club..My first time to that place(no,i am not a member as shooting is the last thing on my mind ;-)).

* As soon as we enter,there are ample notices explaining how "Delayed & short-supply of Ammunition" restricts shooting activities to members only!!It's still kept me wondering how such a massive Shooting Range is short of Ammunition Due to Late shipments!!Maybe it's just a way to hype the whole "shooting experience".

But Then u request,and try to emphasize[sir we have come a long way & want to try our hand !,and sir i think guns are good],and after signing up on a wait list(which also was hyped i think!,as it was mostly empty)..They give us a 8:30 pm slot.. AEd 125/ 25 shots...

It was good,i managed to get 2 out of 6 clay pigeons..Others did better..

* Other 'well-noticed' notices --"No Alcohol consumption before shooting"..Just next to an amazing bar cum restaurant,incidentally also named "SHooters",with the most extensive Cocktail list i have seen!!

* Ask for "Tin Soi"@the Shooters,that's the name of the cheerful Burmese waiter who served us.He sure had some nice serving tricks up his sleeve..and even managed to get us complimentary iceream..And some nice take away gifts too..

Let's get it on..Jack Black(High fidelity)

2 late night outs..

2008-07-25T04:07:00.006+04:00

Interesting Ad(click to enlarge)

Wednesday night :-
* 10:00 pm :- Dubai international airport terminal 1 to see off my folks
* 11:20pm :- Apartment's Club,jumeirah beach hotel...the security at the gate explained club policy and didn't let me in,because i was wearing sandals..One thing lead to another,and i finally got in..IT was "SO EMPTY'..they even didn't charge us the cover!!..I counted.all in all there were hardly 10 people inside..
*12:00 midnight :- Leave Apartment's and head for Rock Bottom Cafe..Now,this place is as usual jam-packed..they charge us the 100 bucks cover..We get in...beer...free tequila(i managed to get 2 rounds!)..bull frog..more tequila..dance..music...
PS:-->I think the live band@Rock bottom cafe is crap..Okay.they play popular music but do they actually play...Not one guitar SOLO...half the time i see the Bassist standing idle...It's all background tracks man..i hate it..Quality live cover band's at the Majestic Hotel or the one at Sea View hotel...They deserve it!!
*03:20 am :- reach home..bleary eyed...feeling dizzy..sleep.
*9:30 am :- wake up.Late fr work again.!!

Thursday Night:-
* 10:00 pm :- i want to watch a movie tonight.what better than batman( the dark knight)..head for the cinema with a couple of friends.All shows are full.manage to get tickets for the midnight show at Al Ghurair city.
*10:20 pm - 11:53pm :-3 of us drink 2 pitchers of beer at the Lotus hotel..next to Al ghurair city.have some chicken..
*Midnight -- 2:30 am :-- Head to the theater...Watch the movie...with intermittent sessions to the Loo..Movie finishes 2:30 am...i sleep thru the last 20 minutes...Wake up..
Ps:- I don't want to comment about the movie...as i might seriously hurt some1..
* Reach home :-- watch youtube videos,some of them are really good....doze off again...

Being Lonely..

2008-07-22T22:47:00.013+04:00

I am lonely,there's no point denying this fact..I feel the pinch each evening after work,while i walk by the creek and see couples holding hands & feeling each other's love..the smile & twinkle in their eyes,makes me reminisce..The desire to be cared for & loved for..it pops in my head every now & then..

Continuing my lonely sessions,last evening i happened to be in mamzar area,so i decided to head for mamzar beach alone.(not the beach park,but the 'silent waters' beach,which is surrounded by a jogging track)..I parked my car..took out my mp3 player & forayed into the dark..thoughts running through my head..

Massive attack--> 'Live with Me'
This is one of those less heard of songs,which just epitomizes 'loneliness" & 'despair'

Just Another day..

2008-07-18T01:01:00.003+04:00

Walking in Memphis

It was just another day..Nuthing special..But there was this moment whilst i was sitting in my car & singing out aloud..The song was "Walking in Memphis" by Marc Cohn..Some1 won a shopping voucher for guessing this song On FM..(i am not sure Channel 4 or Dubai 92)..

The lyrics still come back to me..."Put on my blue sweat shoes....middle of the pouring rain..Walking in memphis..Maa'm i am "..

It's all in bi t s & p i ece s ,for you to fill in..

Online Friends

2008-07-15T23:24:00.003+04:00

Another of my fav Artists

Online friends..people we never meet..probably will never meet..have never talked to..

Sometimes we share a lot with them..i think some of my online pals know more about me,than even my closest friends..I have shared with them my deep dark secrets..my ups & downs..my mood swings..

There's this one online bud of mine,who lives in dubai..we used to share(atleast i used to..) everything under the wide blue sky..I had her cell number..but never talked to her..neither did she..I requested to meet her a couple of times,but then it just faded off....nor did she want to meet me..

But this afternoon i learnt that she has left Dubai for good..Now all of a sudden..i feel i should have met her atleast once..before she left..

'Navs' may u have all the success in life..This post is dedicated to u..

'No need to Argue' ---> The Cranberries

It's been a long time

2008-07-13T00:00:00.004+04:00

The Graduate
(is this my fantasy?)

Yes, it has indeed been a long time...I have been through a lot in the past 6 months..

** i discovered that,what what i though was love..was nothing but a hoax..
** I have been trying to involve myself at work,and i think i am partially successful at it..
** Have discovered some great friends...at college & outside..
** Family restrictions have been loosened up a bit..and even if i am late,i am not guilty anymore.
** Broke my left knee twice..actually a ligament tear..but it hurts..

Such is life...will try to update more often

I am tired of this..

2007-11-10T20:59:00.001+04:00

The Anchor
This is the picture..of an old anchor lying by the creek..Old & rusty..uncared for..

Off-late i am feeling terrible..Excessive control over my life..Why did u drink..when & whom did u go out with..Why don't u eat home..Come back home befre 11:00 pm..I am 25 and i think i know what's right & what is wrong...

I need a break..No fone calls..no restrictions..just the cool breeze..the good music..your best bud.
Life is short..if i am to live it the way my folks want me to..i would rather start off on my own..

Hoping that things can change..

Music Room-->the best music in town

2007-08-04T23:16:00.002+04:00

Good Music..at it's best

In my continuous hunt for places that play good live music in dubai,i can confidently say that the MUSIC ROOM @ the Majestic hotel ,Bur dubai is amongst the best.The entry is situated on the ground floor,from outside the hotel,

The good points:-
** Large spacious pub,unlike the other cramped up 1's..
** Two absolutely fabulous bands " Flipside" (Brit band-->they play really good music ranging from jazz & soul to hard rock,has a versatile guitarist and an equally good keyboardist..On numerous occassions i have enjoyed theie extended extempore solo's on songs like Hey joe & black magic woman) & "the Rock spiders"( eerie sounding name,but this pinoy band put's up a real good show..the 3 female vocalists are good,guitarist excellent,and they cover some really good songs..specially Ironmaiden & G 'n' R)
** Happy hours till 8:30 pm..
** The food a'int bad either.

The bad points:-
** WHY WHY the cover charge on thursday nights>..they started it some 4 months back,and this has turned it into a proper hooker place on weekends..!
** Dress Code..the bouncers tend to stop u if in slippers/sandals>>??..what else Is Good rock music supposed to mean.Freedom Of Expression & walking in like a Caveman right!!

Verdict :- A ++ if u want to have a couple of beers & wish to soak urself in some good live music!

Abra Snap.

2007-08-03T00:48:00.000+04:00

The Dubai Creek..has it's own charm..and there are few things as relaxing as crossing the creek on an abra and gazing into the distance.This is just one random snap of no special significance..

FestiVal ExPress

2007-07-20T12:44:00.000+04:00

Love..Peace & Rock & roll..

I have to admit it I like music..i am not particularly limited to one genre..Anything that sounds good to my ears..Exploring new artists & sounds has always been my passion.Featured above is FESTIVAL EXPRESS,the documentary which introduced me to some really amazing musicians of the 70's...the grateful dead,buddy guy,the band,Janis Joplin just to name a few..The best part of it was that the whole series of rock concerts featured in the documentary were done for the heck of it..the organizers knew it was going to be a financial disaster..There are numerous scenes of all the great artists jamming together inside their tour train..The whole concept was great...and i totally recommend this movie to all the 60's-70's rock & roll lovers..

Sometimes i feel that there are a whole bunch of talented musicians out there..and not many make it big..Those unknown faces,those amazing backup vocalists ,those cool session guitarists who churn out spine-chilling solos,the improvising sax player whose name u don't know..they definitely deserve respect & recognition..

Below is one relatively unknown duo(Deb Talan & Steve Tannen),"The Weepies"..their music is calm,serene,and has a tinge of emptiness..i like every single song off their album titled "Say i am you"..

The Weepies-->Nobody knows me at all

The BeiJing Blues..

2007-07-18T21:25:00.000+04:00

The Magnificent Wall

I was in Beijing recently on a business trip..Now being there and even being short of time, i was simply tempted to visit the Great Wall...The decision was made at 8:00 pm on a Friday,and i asked my Chinese friend to help me out..

He called up many tour agents but seemingly all of them had closed down..We asked the hotel guys,even they didn't have any suitable arrangements.Finally we managed to find a small-time tour agent who fixed me up with an all - Chinese tourist group with a no-English speaking guide..That meant i was going to be alone,with sign language and broad smiles..to my rescue..

Woke up at 4:30 am with bleary eyes,after staying up late till 2:00 am,watching a Hollywood movie starring Orlando Bloom,in which he enacted the role of a failed Shoe R&D guy(i don't remember the name of the movie.),and Kirsten Dunst(she looked really pretty) plays the role of an air hostess.

The pickup time was 5:00 am...

Slept on the Bus.After a supposedly scenic drive(which was lost in sleep)..Reached the Great wall..Couldn't make out a single word that the tourist guide was saying..so just roamed around on my own..from whatever little i could understand the guide asked me to come back to the bus by 9:30 AM..

They had a trolley car system to get you from the base(where the buses were parked)..to the wall..

The weather was cool..the Wall itself was an amazing structure,the architecture was splendid and off course it was strong enough to have endured thousands of years..there seemed to be no end..it just went on & on..and i had my music with me...What more could i ask for..

After finishing the Great wall tour,the bus took us to the Emperor Ming's tomb..followed by the Museum of the Ming dynasty..Both were places of historical significance..and the tourist guide's commentary had every1 nodding their heads...and i was just trying to figure out things on my own...

The bus retunrned back to the hotel by 6:00 pm.It was raining heavily and i had to catch a train to Shanghai..That night on the train i was thinking..if only i could visit the 7 wonders in my lifetime...2 i had ...5 more to go..

Jumeirah beach on a thursday night..

2007-05-01T19:18:00.000+04:00

<--------Sand & Feet

Smoke On the Water,Fire in the Sky---->

The plan:-
This weekend(i.e Thursday night),after a tiring day at office....i was wondering what to do...It was around 11:00 pm..a friend of mine suggested,that we ought to just go over to Jumeirah open beach just next to Burj al Arab/Jumeirah Beach Hotel.

En-route:-
We drive past(or rather they zoom past us) a gang of bikers,racing on SZR..still ahead,we drive past a group of ethusiastic clubbers...loud techno-trance music blaring and "bling-bling" makeover...i can certainly make out what they seem to be so enthu about..Yes..definitely Dubai has an awesome nightlife..and every1 knows it..

We pick up some snacks & drinks , at one of the gas stations on the way..

As far as directions to the beach are concerned,just steer your wheels towards the silhouette of Burj-Al-Arab against the night sky....the open beach is just next to it...

The Beach:-

We park our car,amongst the huge array of cars parked....

At midnight,the place was certainly bustling with activity..people were arriving,with picnic bags,beach mats,tents,all set to have a night out....People from all walks of life...shy couples,noisy teenagers,happy families,serious footballers..

On walking further down,we find many many people,playing ball in the water,swimming around..having fun,barbeque's,hookah..hey had it all planned..It was as if we were on Mamzar beach or Creek park on a Friday afternoon..except for the fact that it was close to 1:00 am..

Thoughts ...:-
As i lay down on the cold sand and stare at the night sky,and listen to the sound of the waves crashing down & people playing around...the song "Shiny happy people" by R.E.M. comes to my mind......

These were the people who must have worked really hard through the week....

I fell asleep...woke up at 4:00 am(when it got really cold!),only to find the place as lively as when we arrived,....got back home..and slept till late on friday..

Let the music heal your soul..

2007-04-08T21:03:00.000+04:00

Evenings at PBJ
If i was asked,about the one place in dubai where i could kill time endlessly,it has to be Friday night's at Peanut Butter Jam,Wafi city rooftop..

How do you reach there:- simple catch a cab for wafi city,if you can drive back sober,or get ur sober friend to drive..then use your own car.

The actual venue:-It is not inside the main mall,but in a separate complex( i am not sure what it is called but it has some Egyptian statues in and around that place..huge pharaohs,mummies etc.)..Just enter the main gate..climb up the flight of stairs and ask someone where PBj is,it is actually a small door which leads to the open air venue on the roof.

There is a main stage,with nice comfy bean bags all around..a couple of bars,seville's is just next door..everything is just perfect..and since it is on only 6 months a year,and only on friday's(the cooler ones)..you don't have to worry about airconditioning..just feel the cool breeze on your face & sit back..listen to some great music,sip a beer.have some snacks..whatever..

The music:- The bands are cool,in fact the best part is they are just a bunch of great musicians intermingling,playing their music under the stars..No strict rules apply.the bassist for one band plays a set for another one..the vocalists change bands..yeah that's the best part of it..

The music is varied..just this friday we had a duo playing Pink floyd(which was unusual)..usually they will be jaming,with some nice peppy & easy going numbers..bryan adams,james morrison,4 non blondes,some self compositions..A duo plays some great flamenco guitar(instrumental)..

The last set is usually done by a band called Frankei & the boys..headed by a talented vocalist with a great range & a great supporting team..a ukranian sax player..a british(probably british!) trumpet player..filipino bassist..the team is amazing and they do impromptu jamming with there own solos thrown in..

The crowd:- Just like the music..every1 is relaxed & hanging around with their friends..ust having there own thing and feeling the music,the stars,the breeze..

Timings :- 8:00 pm - 12:00 pm(yeah they close down early).

Verdict:- A place to be..on friday nights..

There was a time

2007-03-20T21:29:00.000+04:00

There..was a time,when i thought that the environment was the one thing...that every1 ought to conserve..i used to think a lot about..global warming,deforestation,acid rain,erosion etc etc(i.e. all stuff taught to us in science & geography)..

I used to think..where is the world going at..maybe in a couple of years..all natural resources are gonna be depleted.

the cars which run on air,the bio-fuels..when was all that gonna happen...I read about these things in paper(as a matter of fact i still do).Over the years,as i have grown up..these issues have taken a back seat..there are other priorities in life..like making a decent career,settling down..and hundreds of other things,which i fail to recall now..

Conclusion :- Priorities change..