#arieljean

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L!VE~ Headliner Sunday

The Sunday headliner was none other then Ariel Jean Band. While a couple of sisters had to go be with their Dad on this fathers day Sunday, Ariel and the band kicked it though the last day of the Gold Rush Country Music Festival in Auburn. It is always a party with Ariel Jean Band. Be sure to catch them on tour as they are hitting the stages. You will not want to miss this amazing talented fun…

L!VE~ Headliner Sunday

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Last Sprint Part 3: Berlin

This is the last blog post before I head back to the US. Time flies!

Berlin is the vibrant capital city of Germany. From its iconic landmarks to its cultural heritage, Berlin provides an unforgettable experience to every tourist. I visited specifically for its history during cold war, and to meet up with my friend.

My main purpose of this trip is to visit the Berlin Wall, which once divided the city into two parts. Many sections of this wall still remain and serve as a reminder of the struggles that the people of Berlin faced in the past. You can take a guided tour or simply walk along the wall to experience its significance.

For history buffs, the Berliner Dom or the Berlin Cathedral is a must-visit location. This magnificent building is known for its impressive architecture, stunning mosaics and paintings. The cathedral is situated on Museum Island, which also houses several other museums that tells the story of Berlin's rich history.

Berlin is known for its vibrant street art scene. Take a walking tour of the city to explore its many graffiti and murals, including the famous East Side Gallery that showcases over 100 artworks on a section of the Berlin Wall. We visited a brewery that has been renovated into a museum.

Lastly, no tour of Berlin would be complete without a visit to the Tiergarten. This is one of the largest parks in Germany and is perfect for an afternoon stroll or a picnic, with beautiful gardens and plenty of open spaces.

And that concludes my journey for 4 and a half months in Europe. Gonna miss you Europa, see you till next time!

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Last Sprint Part 2: Athens

Athens is one of the ancient cities in Greece that is filled with spectacular landmarks. It is known for its rich history, art, and culture, making it a top destination for tourists from all over the world. Athens is also a modern city that hosts many events, exhibitions, and festivals throughout the year.

The city's most significant and famous landmark is the Acropolis, which sits high above Athens, overlooking the city. The Acropolis contains several ancient ruins, including the Parthenon, renowned for its grandeur and iconic status.

In addition to the Acropolis, there are several other significant sites to visit in Athens, such as the Ancient Agora, the Temple of Olympian Zeus, the Roman Agora, and the National Archaeological Museum. These sites offer visitors a glimpse into the city's rich history and how it has evolved over the years.

Athens also has a vibrant culture that is celebrated across the city. The city has an incredible food scene, with delicious dishes such as souvlaki, gyros, and moussaka being popular dishes for both locals and visitors. Athens also has a great nightlife scene, with many bars and clubs that stay open late into the night.

When visiting Athens, it is essential to explore the city's many neighbourhoods and explore its streets by foot. Monastiraki, Plaka, and Psyri are all great neighbourhoods to wander through and are home to many shops, cafes, and restaurants that serve delicious food and drinks.

Overall, Athens is a city that should be on every traveller's bucket list. It has a rich history, a vibrant culture, and a beautiful landscape that will leave a lasting impression on anyone who visits. It is a city that will capture your heart and leave you longing to return.

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Last Sprint Part 1: Budapest

Before heading back to the US, I have to explore Budapest - a charming and vibrant destination that combines rich cultural heritage, stunning architecture, delicious cuisine, and a bustling nightlife scene. It is known as the "Paris of the East" due to its impressive landmarks and historic charm, attracting thousands of tourists every year.

One of the most notable features of Budapest is its thermal baths and spas, which are scattered throughout the city. These baths are a great way to relax and rejuvenate after a long day of sightseeing. The Széchenyi Thermal Bath is one of the most famous and largest medicinal spas in Europe, featuring indoor and outdoor pools, saunas, and a wide range of wellness treatments.

Budapest is also home to a variety of impressive landmarks and attractions that reflect the city's rich history and culture. The Hungarian Parliament Building, located on the banks of the Danube River, is one of the most iconic buildings in Budapest and an architectural masterpiece. St. Stephen's Basilica, a magnificent cathedral named after the first King of Hungary, is another must-see landmark in the city.

The city's culinary scene is also something to rave about. Hungarian cuisine is known for its hearty and delicious dishes, such as goulash, chimney cake, and strudel. For a traditional Hungarian dining experience, visit the Great Market Hall, a grand indoor market where vendors sell fresh produce, meats, and local specialties.

Budapest is also a city that never sleeps, with plenty of nightlife options for everyone. The city's "ruin bars," located in the old Jewish district, are a unique and popular attraction. These bars are located in abandoned buildings and courtyards, giving them a quirky and alternative vibe.

I even ran into someone's proposal! Awwww.

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French v.s. American Education

The education systems in both France and the United States have different approaches to delivering education to students. While both education systems have their strengths and weaknesses, it is essential to compare the two to gain a deeper understanding of the approaches to education in both countries.

Firstly, the French education system is centralized, with a strong focus on academic achievement and intellectualism. The French education system is known for its comprehensive curriculum that emphasizes the importance of mathematics, science, and language studies. The French education system is rigorously structured with a fixed curriculum, strict class schedules, and teacher-led instruction. The students are expected to perform well academically, and students who excel are identified and further encouraged to pursue higher academic studies.

In contrast, the American education system is decentralized, with decentralized access to education, and there is more emphasis on practical and liberal arts education. The American education system encourages creativity and offers diverse learning opportunities for students. Unlike French education, there is no general curriculum in the American education system, and each state has its own curriculum. Some American schools emphasize testing and grade comparison, while others focus on social and emotional learning.

Another significant difference between the French and American education systems is funding. In France, education is considered a public service, and it is funded by the government. In America, education is funded by the local and state government. This difference in funding has a significant impact on the quality of education that students receive. The American education system tends to have more funding issues since it is based on the state's income, which tends to fluctuate.

A significant contrast in the classroom dynamic is also evident. In the French education system, teacher-student relationships tend to be formal and respectful. Academic progress is based on performance in standardized tests, and intellectualism is valued over creativity or personal expression. In contrast, the American education system emphasizes building relationships between teachers and students, creating an open environment encouraging self-expression, free speech, and individuality.

While the formal, centralized French education system is seen as beneficial to academic performance, the American education system's open approach to education is known for its benefits to creativity and encouraging individuality.

In conclusion, while both systems seek to provide education to their citizens, differences in approaches, curriculum, and funding mechanisms preclude easy comparisons or broad conclusions. Both systems, however, have proven themselves proficient in their methods in producing well-educated and innovative students. Thus, the best course of action is to study both systems to adapt strengths to unify a more comprehensive approach to education.

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A Journey of Remembrance: Touring Auschwitz-Birkenau

Visiting Auschwitz-Birkenau is a solemn and powerful experience that holds immense historical significance. As one of the most notorious Nazi concentration and extermination camps during World War II, Auschwitz-Birkenau serves as a stark reminder of the atrocities committed against millions of innocent lives. In this blog post, we will delve into the importance of visiting Auschwitz-Birkenau and provide essential information to help you navigate this somber yet educational tour.

Historical Context

To truly grasp the magnitude of Auschwitz-Birkenau, it's crucial to understand its historical context. During the Holocaust, over a million Jews, along with Poles, Romani people, Soviet prisoners of war, and others, lost their lives in this camp. Auschwitz-Birkenau symbolizes the horrors of the Holocaust and stands as a testament to the resilience of those who suffered.

Here are some tips in planning a visit to Auschwitz.

1. Preparing Emotionally: A visit to Auschwitz-Birkenau can be emotionally challenging. It is essential to mentally prepare yourself for the solemn atmosphere and reflect on the gravity of the place you are about to visit.

2. Reservations and Guided Tours: Due to its significance, Auschwitz-Birkenau requires advance reservations, particularly for guided tours. Booking a guided tour is highly recommended as it provides valuable insights and ensures you cover the essential areas of the camp.

3. Practical Information: The camp is located near the town of Oswiecim in Poland, and various transportation options are available to reach the site. Dress modestly and wear comfortable shoes as you will be walking on gravel paths and uneven terrain.

The Auschwitz-Birkenau Tour Experience includes two parts.

The tour typically begins at Auschwitz I, the administrative and command center of the camp. Here, you will see original buildings, including the barracks, gas chambers, and crematoria. The exhibits within the buildings offer a chilling insight into the conditions endured by prisoners.

The tour then proceeds to Birkenau, the larger part of the complex where mass exterminations took place. The vastness of the camp is overwhelming, with rows of barracks and remnants of the gas chambers and crematoria. It is a poignant reminder of the scale of the Holocaust.

It is crucial to be respectful during your visit. Please maintain a respectful demeanor. Photography is allowed in designated areas, but it is important to exercise sensitivity and refrain from inappropriate behavior. Take the time to reflect, pay your respects at the memorials, and honor the memory of the victims.

Visiting Auschwitz-Birkenau is an emotional journey, but it is one that is profoundly significant and necessary. It serves as a reminder of the darkest chapters in human history and urges us to learn from the past to create a better future. Auschwitz-Birkenau serves as a profound educational tool to ensure that the atrocities committed during the Holocaust are never forgotten. The lessons learned here are vital in fostering empathy, promoting tolerance, and combating prejudice and discrimination in our society. By paying our respects at this solemn site, we honor the victims and work towards a world that embraces peace, understanding, and compassion.

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Two Sides of One: Warsaw

Warsaw, the capital city of Poland, is a vibrant and culturally rich city that offers tourists a variety of attractions and experiences. Whether you want to explore the city's history and culture, enjoy its food, or simply relax and unwind, Warsaw has something for everyone.

One of the most popular attractions in Warsaw is the historic Old Town, which was rebuilt after being destroyed during World War II. Here you can wander through narrow streets and admire colorful facades, visit the Royal Castle, and enjoy live music performances in the Market Square.

Other must-see landmarks in Warsaw include the Palace of Culture and Science, a towering building that offers fantastic views of the city, and the Wilanów Palace, which is known for its beautiful gardens and Baroque architecture. It is built by Stalin, but its beauty is undoubted and still adored by locals and tourists.

If you're interested in history, Warsaw has plenty to offer. The Warsaw Uprising Museum and the Museum of the History of Polish Jews are both fascinating places to learn about the city's past.

Food lovers won't be disappointed in Warsaw either. The city has a thriving food scene, with traditional Polish dishes like pierogi (dumplings) and kielbasa (sausage) available at many restaurants. There are also plenty of trendy cafes and bars where you can try modern takes on traditional dishes.

Finally, Warsaw is a great place to relax and unwind. The city has several beautiful parks, including the Lazienki Park, which is home to the stunning Palace on the Water, and the Pole Mokotowskie Park, which is perfect for jogging or cycling. The vibrant yet laid back atmosphere makes the city feel like a perfect place to raise a family. I even ran into a rollerblade night parade with kids and adults!

Warsaw is a fantastic city with something for everyone. From its history and culture to its food and natural beauty, there's no shortage of things to do and see in this magical city.

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Vilnius: Fighting For Freedom and Democracy

My hostel is right next to one of the main attractions in Vilnius - the magnificent Vilnius Cathedral and Square. The cathedral is a masterpiece of Baroque architecture and is adorned with beautiful frescoes and paintings. The square it sits on is one of the most beautiful places in the city, offering stunning views of the cathedral and surrounding buildings. The morning view is magnificent.

During the stay at Vilnius, I made a one day detour to Kaunas. I visited a museum that used to be an atomic bunker during the USSR era. To be fair, it is more of a personal antique collection than a museum, but the guide’s stories definitely made everything came to life. After Lithuania broke away from the USSR, they almost immediately made any action supporting communism, especially the Russian government, illegal. Some may argue that this move is against freedom in politics, but I can totally understand those who suffered under an dictator disguised as “communist” would like to avoid it at all cost. The mentality is obvious; even as a tourist I can sense their support for Ukraine more than anywhere else in Europe.

The moment that touched me the most happened when looking through country badges before and after they left the USSR. When it came to Lithuania, the guide proudly said “See the Pine and Spruce? That is a large industry in Lithuania.” As someone who grew up in Taiwan, I know how insecure it is to be a small country next to a large, authoritarian government always looking to expand themselves. As of today, a lot in Taiwan beliefs that we got international support only because of the amount of high quality chips we produce; without that the international community will be more than willing to trade our freedom, democracy, and self-determination for the satisfaction of the government controlling one of the largest buying markets on Earth. Thus a question came to me naturally: how would a small country like Lithuania have the military defense strong enough to deter Russia from bugging them constantly? What is their “strong reason” for international support, if it’s not their strength or power in impacting the economy? I asked the guide about where do they get their military protection, and he gave me an answer so simple that I am mildly embarrassed to ask in the first place: NATO.

I cannot express how envious I felt afterwards. Imagine how much time and energy Taiwan could devote into areas other than military and semiconductors if there were some similar hard, law-binding support for us. Military service is still mandatory for boys of my age in Taiwan, and that is just recently extended from four months back to a year; all because of our nasty neighbor, their inherent overpower based on land and population, and the international community tolerating them bending rules in order to save their own economic interest.

Back to Vilnius. The Užupis District is my favorite spot in Vilnius.

This once run-down district has been transformed into one of the most eccentric and artistic neighborhoods in the city. Known as the Republic of Užupis, it has a bohemian vibe that’s infectious. You’ll find plenty of quaint cafés, shops, and galleries to explore. They even have their own constitution and country mascot – a cat!

The city also has a vibrant food scene, and there are plenty of restaurants and bars to try out. Lithuanian cuisine is hearty, delicious, and affordable, and a meal at one of the local restaurants is an experience that you won’t forget in a hurry. There beer pubs are also one-of-a-kind!