Christmas for my Brazilian Family is quite different from my North German Background.
The Four Sisters
Maria Ines is very proud to have her four daughters here with us at the Gold Coast: They meet more or less every day and Saturday is reserved for coffee outside the house.
Check out Casa Da Vovo Burleigh & the Brazilian Community at the Gold Coast.
Her Facebook Account with photos and infos, about her bilingual Stand Alone Child Care.
The Four Sisters | Maria Ines and phbMaria Ines at Byron Bay | Credit phbHeimathafen Husum | Credit phb | Byron Bay with my wife Maria Ines
Just listening to Freedom written by Angela Merkel, which was published in English today as well.
Audiobook on Audible included in my monthly credits for only 10 Euro.
Find this very impressive and believe, the media frenzy in Germany are all missing out on the relevant parts of this book:
Authentic, honest, clear, no hybris at all.
Down to earth, VW beetle and country life at its best.
Two parts, life before and after becoming chancellor of Germany.
1989 Angela was 35 years old, now she is 70 years old.
Goethe in Weimar | Credit phb
Angela Merkel in einer Goethe Schule in Templin.
„Wer schreibt die Geschichte einer Kanzlerin wirklich?“, fragt Anne Will zum Schluss.
Kinder von Lehrern und Pastoren, egal wo … besonders auf dem Lande:
Sie alle haben einen gemeinsamen Nenner.
Besser sein als andere …
Die Geschichte einer Kanzlerin entsteht aus der Vielfalt der Geschichten über die Kanzlerin inklusive der Geschichte von der Kanzlerin und Frau Baumann über die Kanzlerin.
Ihr Satz:
Wir schaffen das …
Schlicht und einfach, ihr Leitmotiv und an sich und andere glauben.
Attitude und Haltung zum Leben.
Hindernisse müssen überwunden werden wie beim Hürdenlauf.
If you could live anywhere in the world, where would it be?
Coming from a small village north of Hamburg, where I was born in 1949, I have decided after I retired to live in Queensland Australia, for my wife from Rio Brazil the place to be. Maria Ines managed to convince her four daughters to live here with us, nearly there after more than 10 years.
House Beach Gold Coast | Credit phbSuburb Gold Coast | Credit phbSurfing boys Gold Coast | Credit phbStreet Art Miami Gold Coast | Credit phbTweed Coast Northern Rivers | Credit phbGold Coast Hinterland | Credit phbGarden | Credit phbThe Four Sisters | Family First | Credit phbCasa Da Vovo Burleigh | Love and joy and laughter | Maria Ines and her garden
I am not so much interested who wins the US elections in 2024, but rather why people there vote Trump at all.
In any Democracy the Majority of the population (The People) vote the Government they deserve.
USA
Electorate and Popular Votes
The Blue Wall States
Is the Blue Wall going to hold?
I find the discourse and comments on the US elections 2024 very interesting, for various reasons.
What is Democracy?
Democracy is coming to the USA (Leonard Cohen)
Music Is The Language
What are the expectations?
Why this Hype before and trend analysis?
My vote would be Kamala Harris, but one vote in millios of votes does not count at all. Only the total numbers are of any relevance counted in per cent.
Not voting is a vote: Like I had no time or would not know who to vote for.
Voting in Australia is compulsory, Pflicht , for many good reasons: The more votes the clearer the popular view. like 100 % have voted and 52 voted for Trump and 48 for Harris: This would be a very clear popular vote.
This does not mean, 48 % of the voters would be happy, but they would accept they lost.
The majority is not always rigt.
Only the Ocean is right, always right.
So why would people vote for Trump at all?
What are Swing States?
I would contact people in the country and ask them why Trump?
The answer would be more or less: We know what he stands for. We would neither agree with his behaviour nor his views.
But he sends out clear messages, he would not deceive us.
Do we know what Harris stands for?
The answer would be rather a clear NO.
Has she performed during the campaign? In fact Biden has not performed, and she had to replace him suddenly.
Was she a good Vice President?
No clue, in fact!
And she is a city person.
We do not like and trust people there in the Big Cities.
Brisbane in Queensland is called The Big Smoke.
Elon Musk und Trump und Zuck und Cäsar
Trump und Putin
Comment from Munich before Election Day in SZ App | Author Heribert Prantl: (Example)
Die Lüge war und ist für Trump das Mittel für den Machterwerb. (Macht)
Schwindel, Betrug, Fälschung, Unverschämtheiten: Das alles hat es seit jeher in der großen und kleinen Politik immer wieder gegeben – aber selten so dreist, so unverfroren, so alltäglich und drecksfrech wie bei Trump.
(Trumpet Trump)
Zwar hat schon Niccolò Machiavelli vor fünfhundert Jahren das Lob der Lüge gesungen. Er war der politische Philosoph, der lehrte, dass zur Erlangung oder Erhaltung politischer Macht jedes Mittel erlaubt sei, unabhängig von Recht und Moral: Wer ein großer Mann werden wolle, der müsse ein „gran simulatore e dissimulatore“ werden, ein großer Lügner und Heuchler.
(SIC!) = SICK!!!
Man hatte bisher gedacht, das sei in Demokratien anders, man hatte gedacht, dass in Demokratien die Lüge den Lügner immer schneller einholt.
Trump widerlegt diese These! (Bisher)!
Dem Mann gebührt nicht die Wiederwahl, sondern die Verdammung seines Angedenkens.
Aber einen gewissen Dank hat sich selbst der Trompeter Trump verdient:
(Was lernt ein Krieger des Lichts von seinem ärgsten Feind?)
Trump hat den bequemen Glauben daran zerstört, dass Demokratie und Rechtsstaatlichkeit in den Kernstaaten der sogenannten freien Welt sich, und sei es auch nur langsam Step by Step, quasi weiterentwickeln zur Wahrheit hin.
Das Sichergeglaubte ist nicht sicher, weil Aufklärung nicht ein einmaliges und immer bleibendes Ereignis darstellt.
Aufklärung ist immer notwendig.
Immer und nicht nur manchmal oder von Zeit zu Zeit:
Immer wieder neu!
Wie notwendig sie ist, zeigt die Faszination, die ein Dauer-Lügner wie Trump auf eine Vielzahl von Wählerinnen und Wählern ausübt.
Vor 240 Jahren, im September 1784, hat Immanuel KANT einen seiner berühmtesten Sätze zu Papier gebracht: “Aufklärung ist der Ausgang des Menschen aus seiner selbstverschuldeten Unmündigkeit”.
Der Hype um Donald Trump zeigt heute oder morgen, wie wichtig dieser Ausgang noch und gerade im Herbst 2024 ist.
This Text was copied from my SZ App and the Author is Heribert PRANTL.
Adapted and re – edited by myself.
Ver – dichtung.
Die Wahrheit kommt immer ans Licht!
On Sundays Maria Ines and myself love to explore our Backyard stretching from the Southern Gold Coast to the Northern Rivers and the Tweed Valley to Byron Bay and the Byron Shire or Hinterland:
Many people and tourists do not have the time to explore the Hidden Valleys, they rather prefer the Gold Coast Beaches and the Bars and Restaurants and Parks.
As a man from the Country, I tend to explore the Farms with Animals and Vegetation and Crops and always come back to Farm Life and Country People for many reasons:
Country people are generally said different from City People.
Why?
This is another smart question…
Kindly yours from the Gold Coast plus it’s Hinterland wishing my reader a good and successful week
Peter H Bloecker
Retired Director Of Education
Truly Northern & born between the Horizons
Of Denmark and Hamburg and North Sea and Baltic Sea (From Kiel in S – H).
Credit phbCredit phbMaria Ines | Credit phbCredit phbByron Bay | Credit phbAt Byron Beach Hotel | Credit phb
Wir leben in spannenden Zeiten …das ist sicher!
We all live in disruptive days for sure!
Certain is only uncertainty.
Carpe Diem!
Family First!
Education Second!
In a Nutshell: Why does Donald Trump become the POTUS of the USA a second time?
In these days of Uncertainty and Disruptions the United States population has voted clearly for a strong and white Man: In these days a vote for a non – white woman in the White House?
Obviously not at present, Kamala Harris has performed in the big cities, however not enough in the Country and smaller towns and communities in the United States.
But one day, Democracy will come to the USA as well (Leonard Cohen)
And Music Is The Language.
Peter Hanns Bloecker, Director Of Studies (Retired)
In seiner Rede sprang Trump von Thema zu Thema. Dass er jetzt hier stehe, nachdem es mutmaßlich zwei Anschlagsversuche auf ihn gab, sehe er als Zeichen. Er sagt: „Gott hat mein Leben verschont, damit ich unser Land rette und Amerika zu seiner Größe zurückführe. Und jetzt erfüllen wir diese Mission zusammen.“ In seiner Ansprache erwähnte Trump auch den Unternehmer Elon Musk, hob dessen Unterstützung heraus und lobte Musks Raumfahrt- und Satellitenfirmen, um die China und Russland ihn beneiden würden. Trump sagte, nun sei es an der Zeit, das, was die USA spalte, beiseitezulegen und zusammenzukommen, wie es schon während seiner ersten Amtszeit der Fall gewesen sei.
All it needs is a portion of self awareness and some courage.
What have you been working on?
As I am retired, I have time now to work on everything I have not been able to do before.
I can read and study and take notes and write for myself.
All this with a target: Experience Life as much as you can and be adventurous as well.
A bit if courage and outside the box and my bubble.
Getting to know myself as much as I can.
And appreciate sincere and honest feedback.
Not more, but not less either.
Hamburg 2024 | Credit phbBanksy as seen in Hamburg | Credit phbScreenshot & Stopover in Vietnam in Da Nang | Excellent Choice ~ phbStreet Art in George Town Penang | Credit phbScreenshot | Back home now | Credit phb
All day visit of the old town centre of Hoi An from Da Nang, about 35 km away (one way).
There are hundreds of tourist shops along the river, however reaching the Local Market Area after a brief walk, I found the places where the locals meet and buy there food and shoes and more:
Hoi An, a UNESCO World Heritage Site in Vietnam, is renowned for its well-preserved ancient town that dates back to the 15th century. This charming town is a cultural melting pot, reflecting its historic role as a trading port. The narrow streets are lined with beautifully preserved architecture, showcasing influences from Vietnamese, Chinese, Japanese, and European styles.
Cultural highlights include the iconic Japanese Covered Bridge, traditional wooden houses, and vibrant temples like the Quan Cong Temple. The town is also famous for its colorful lanterns, traditional crafts, and bustling night market.
Hoi An’s rich heritage is not only in its buildings but also in its vibrant traditions, festivals, and culinary delights. The town is known for its unique cuisine, featuring dishes like Cao Lau and White Rose dumplings.
In a nutshell, Hoi An offers a captivating blend of history, culture, and scenic beauty, making it a must-visit destination for travelers.
As of 2024, the population of Da Nang, Vietnam is estimated to be around 1,253,230⁷. This vibrant city is known for its beautiful beaches, historical sites, and as a major port city in central Vietnam.
As of 2024, the population of Hanoi, Vietnam is estimated to be around 8.59 million¹³. This bustling capital city is known for its rich history, vibrant culture, and beautiful architecture.
As of 2024, the population of Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam is estimated to be around 9.57 million¹². This dynamic city, also known as Saigon, is the largest in Vietnam and is renowned for its vibrant street life, historical landmarks, and bustling economy.
Vietnam is still a communist country. It is one of the few remaining one-party communist states in the world, alongside China, North Korea, Laos, and Cuba¹². The Communist Party of Vietnam maintains strict control over the government and political expression.
Da Nang has a rich and diverse history that reflects its strategic importance and cultural heritage:
Ancient Times: The city’s origins date back to the ancient kingdom of Champa, established in 192 AD. The Chams, an ethnic group in Vietnam, built many temples and structures in the region.
Early Đại Việt Settlement: During the early Đại Việt period, the city was known as Cửa Hàn.
French Colonial Era: In the 19th century, Da Nang was known as Tourane (or Turon) during French colonial rule. The French first landed in Da Nang in 1858, marking the beginning of their colonial influence in Vietnam.
Vietnam War: Da Nang played a significant role during the Vietnam War. It was the site of a major U.S. air base and port facilities, which were expanded significantly during the 1960s.
Modern Development: After the war, Da Nang continued to grow and develop. In 1997, it was separated from Quang Nam Province to become one of Vietnam’s five centrally controlled municipalities¹. Today, it is a major commercial and educational center in Central Vietnam, known for its beautiful beaches, modern infrastructure, and vibrant economy.
Da Nang’s history is a fascinating blend of ancient cultures, colonial influences, and modern development.
Credit phbVietnam | Credit phbThe Brothers | Credit phbFine Arts MuseumStreet Scene Da Nang | Credit phbDa Nang Bridge | Credit phbAt the River | Credit phb
20:27 and warm & humid | Credit phbCredit phbCredit phbHoi An |Credit phb
A rainy Day in a George Town Hotel, posted by Wonderweaver on Sat 5 Oct 2024.
Ernest Zach } Credit phb
Discovering the Heart of George Town, Penang
George Town is a charming colonial city nestled in Penang, Malaysia, and it has captivated my interest.
How? Well, just a bit of research online while preparing my flight back from Germany to my Australian Home Town, where I have retired with my wife and Brasilien Family since 2015.
Wandering its vibrant streets, one can’t help but feel a deep connection to its rich history and cultural tapestry, making it a perfect destination for a week-long adventure.
A Walk Through History
George Town’s historical roots date back to the British East India Company, which established the city as a trading post in 1786. This pivotal moment in history transformed the harbour town into a bustling hub of commerce and cultural exchange. The British Empire’s influence in Southeast Asia played a crucial role in shaping George Town. As part of the empire, George Town became a focal point for international trade, attracting merchants from Europe, India, China, and beyond.
The British colonial architecture, with its grand buildings and shophouses, stands as a testament to this era. The Fort Cornwallis, named after Charles Cornwallis, remains a prominent landmark, offering a glimpse into the city’s military and administrative past. The acquisition of Penang Island from the Sultanate of Kedah marked the beginning of British colonial rule in the region, forever intertwining George Town’s fate with the broader narrative of the British Empire.
Development and Multiculturalism
As George Town developed, it attracted merchants, traders, and settlers from various parts of the world, including India, China, and Europe. This influx of diverse populations led to a unique blend of cultures, traditions, and religions. The city’s architecture, cuisine, and festivals reflect this multicultural heritage, making George Town a vibrant and dynamic place for the locals plus tourists from all over the world: Many groups of young people chasing the street art in the old centre of the city.
Culinary Delights and Friendly Faces
The welcoming locals add a personal touch to every encounter. But it’s not just the people who make George Town special. The city’s culinary scene is a feast for the senses. From sizzling street food to aromatic local delicacies, every bite I have tried, is delicious, indeed. Whether it’s a plate of Char Kway Teow or a refreshing bowl of Cendol, the flavors are as diverse as the people who call this place home.
Street Art and Cultural Festivities
Art lovers will find themselves enchanted by the vibrant street art that adorns the walls of George Town. Murals by artists like Ernest Zacharevic bring the city’s history and everyday life to vivid life, offering a unique glimpse into its soul. As a UNESCO World Heritage Site, George Town is a treasure trove of cultural landmarks and festivals. The lively celebrations, like Chinese New Year and Thaipusam, showcase the city’s rich heritage and the harmonious coexistence of different cultures and religions.
A Week of exploring and adventure
Spending a week in George Town is like stepping into a living museum, where every corner has a story to tell. The blend of historical significance, multicultural influences, and contemporary vibrancy makes it a destination like no other. Whether you’re exploring heritage sites, savoring street food, or simply soaking in the local atmosphere, George Town promises an unforgettable journey.
House of Street Art in George Town } Credit phb
George Town’s allure lies in its ability to weave the old with the new, the local with the global. It’s a place where history meets modernity, and where every visitor can find something to inspire and delight. In a nutshell, if you pack your bags and set out to discover the culture and history of George Town – you won’t regret it for sure.
One photo says more than 1000 words.
The Straw Dog } Credit phbDoor at the Blue Mansion | Credit phbAt the Jetty | Credit phbHard working people | Credit phbGreetings from Banksy | Credit phbStreet Art in Kuala Lumpur | Credit phbBanksy seen in Hamburg | Credit phb
Now at Penang Airport waiting to fly back to Kuala Lumpur.
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