A Wrap on the Year 2024

The year 2024 ended up being rather big (see picture for scale). What we thought could be a slow second half turned out to be drastically busy too. Not in a bad way at all, just very busy. Which makes one appreciate a smaller home again as one is hardly there ;-)

Highlights

KKB and the Grilling (2x): what a quaint little town this! The Container hotel turned out to be an oasis amidst the trees. Can't believe that was this in January the first time. So much has happened since!

A day trip to Bangkok to deliver 40Kg of magazines for an event. Cos it is cheaper than sending it via courier. Out at 6am, back in the evening after a relaxing lunch with friends.

MCVE 2024: Yet another exciting exhibition we hosted, the 6th of its kind. Living in the Organiser's Office again for a week and having to deal with all sorts of things that go Murphy's Law. 

My first Busworld, this one in Jakarta. And immediately after MCVE 2024 with barely a day to reorganise things. Followed by a trip to Bangkok for another event. Some Michelin bib gourmanded restaurant left an impression.

Making it 4 "Happenings" in a row, the trip to China following the visit to the Agritechnica was a real "Woah" moment. Things have changed since I have been to Beijing in 1998. I would have liked to spend the evening in the Tsing Tao brewery, but the program organised by the hosts has also been rather exciting. I would say that Qingdao is worth another visit, for leisure. 

WhiskyPLUS in Penang turned into a bit of a tour of the country with stops along the way. And several interesting additions to the collection from the event. Details are a little bit sketchy about the later part of the evening. 

Kuching for the food festival. This time we went for 2 nights. The first to scout the place and the second to really get the food game on. Highly recommended event to experience the best of East Malaysia!

What was most enjoyable about the trip to Germany were the walks to the bakery. I do miss some good bread rolls. Yes, we get them here, but it is a major logistics undertaking to have a steady supply. Lucky with the weather, sitting outside and letting the world go by. 

Having been an extra in 2 TV series and 1 commercial. I learned a lot during these gigs. Not that there is much of me to see, but I know that I am in it. Even though these were not Hollywood blockbusters, it was amazing to see what it takes to get a few seconds of footage done. 

The Japan holiday took on epic proportions with a lost and found bag containing passports. For a change, this was a trip devoid of any commitments to clients, so it was a different vibe. I have now been on the Hakone Tour four times, but this was the first with a stop on Fuji. I got shoes!

Christmas market in Shanghai: would have enjoyed it even more if buying the tickets wasn't such a hassle. Recommended for the mulled wine and the near perfect ambience, the most authentic to being a German Christmas market I have seen. 

Having "just one bottle of wine" in BoozeIt in Publica. What civilised afternoon that was. Four bottles later. Amazing concept to have the option to just sit there at the source. Good meat platter too. 

Naturally, there was also a lot of grilling, the week-long celebration of Chinese New Year, trips to Penang and Melaka, that dinner in Sabayon would rank high on the memorable events list too. Lost 4 kg in excess weight and continuing to shrink. 

Shanghai puts an Eastern Spin on Christmas

Source “SmartShanghai”

Shanghai, with its dazzling skyline seen from across the Bund, being the largest City in the country, may not immediately come to mind as a destination to celebrate Christmas and the cheerful time leading up to it. Those seeking a more authentic experience of Christmas may find themselves emersed in a winter ambience quite similar to the European mainland. The chilling air, with temperatures dropping to near Zero degrees Celsius only add to the atmosphere.


Shanghai’s Christmas market is an authentic representation of European traditions

The famous German Christmas Market returns to the Bund this year, bringing you the festive spirit of a traditional German-style market on the charming YuanmingYuan road and square, next to the Rockbund and the Peninsula Hotel. Chiming in, the Peninsula Hotel itself sports a dazzling display of light and deco to get guests into the right mood. This wonderful scenic spot tucked in between the historic Union church and the Shanghai skyline is the perfect spot for our romantic Christmas market. Wooden stalls line the street where vendors offer handicraft, foods of various cuisines and of course, mulled wine. With the cold, chilling down the air drastically after sunset, the atmosphere is getting as close to what one would experience the Christmas markets to be in Germany. Those Germans having joined the event on the Bund would certainly attest to it. To make the most of this, it is recommended to book tickets early as the organisers are very concerned about the experience, thus limiting access.

Many shops, hotels and restaurants put up Christmas deco. Many hum along to the Christmas carols.

With the trees changing colours, a low-set sun makes for stunning visuals. An afternoon spent in the French Concession will be feast for foodies, snap-happy Instagrammers and seekers of a scenery away from high-rise buildings. Many of the shops sport Christmas decoration, sharing the joy of the season. With the rays still having warming-power, one is easily tempted to sit outside one of the many cafes that line the streets of this quint neighbourhood. It is a parading ground for dogs of all sizes, many of which are dressed by their owners in the spirit of Christmas and often photographed by tourists.

The cold season is also a good reason to sample Mulled Wine. It is a true Christmas tradition to impress your friends with your own concoction. While meandering the streets around the Fuxing Park several opportunities will arise to sample the local interpretations of this seasonal beverage. The Boxing Cat Brewery is just one of many that serve up Mulled Wine. For those seeking something unique may find themselves in a Kweichow Moutai flagship store where Moutai-infused icecream is served. Alternatively, the Snowbeer brewery sounds like they offer a fitting drop matching the mood. The Intercontinental Shanghai Ruijin offers an abode in the 

heart of the French Concession.

Early December is also the best time (in the opinion of this here writer) to visit the Xitang Water Town. Located some two hours by car, it is a beautiful town that seems like a completely different world from the hectic and concrete of Shanghai. One will find cobbled streets, old buildings, bridges arching over canals, rowing boats lingering on the river, and locals singing folk songs. Those with a bit more time may opt for a stay in the village’s hotels. Mornings in Xitang bring fresh air and light fog; by evening, the setting sun casts a rosy, enchanting glow. Many locals will flock to this charming location to dress in traditional Chinese dresses for photoshoots; it is less busy in winter, making for a more serene experience. Several pavilions are themed, providing educational insights into the life in ancient China. In modern times, the village has also been a filming location for Mission Impossible 3.

The ancient town of Xitang invites for a romantic getaway

Back in town, the Westin Bund Centre is perfectly located for a Christmas getaway. Within walking distance to several shopping centres and specialty stores, a pedestrian zone lined with shops offering local souvenirs as well as high street fashion brands. The ideal locale to explore for Christmas gifts! Famous for their Sunday Brunch, the Westin has themed sessions like “The Nutcracker” during December. Adding to the free flow of Champagne and lobster, crab, oysters and roast, the performances and live orchestra are in tune with the festive season, adding charm to the occasion. During this festive season Shanghai transforms into a magical Christmas destination blending Eastern charm with Western festive traditions. From the enchanting German Christmas Market to serene afternoons in the French Concession, the city offers surprises for everyone. Its festive spirit, rich experiences, and unique cultural fusion make it an unmissable holiday destination.

(Images: Stefan Pertz, unless otherwise indicated