An interesting place I've been to

I've lived through my first winter over here in England now and have made it through. What it left me was many good memories, a wedding anniversary, and hikes up and down a mountain where we had picnics in the freezing cold.

From this, I was allowed to experience many things, one of these was skyline. Skyline, Bath, lives true to its name. Standing on top of this hill, you get to see the stunning landscape of the historical city of Bath, deemed as one of the prestigious heritage UNESCO cities in the UK, it offers an experience through time to architecture that is unreplicated today. 

Bath Abbey, heart of the city centre

Bath Skyline

This is where I relax and go on walks. Where I have picnics with friends. Where I come to think and engulf myself in the vast expanse of history that is placed before me. I'm always reminded that the city was always here first, and compared to it, I feel small and unimportant, but it's really comfortable. This place is a mood reliever for me, where I had some of my best memories. During winter, I sat here for 2 hours with friends in the freezing cold as we ate our pre-packed dinners. We shared oreos even though the cold bit into our nails and froze our blood. Yet we still reached out and shared food. 

It's interesting to me how spending time here during different seasons alters my mood. How during the rainy Autumn that I arrived, Skyline was brooding and dark grey, it comforted the me that first arrived in England and kept me ready for each event that eventually came my way. During winter, when the cold seeped into our bones and kept us rooted to our homes, every trip out felt like an adventure. Spring, when it came with its hay fever and pollenating flowers that sprung between every sliver of space between grass. Summer, when the heat seared our skin and loosened our layers of clothing. Every season brings a different mood about me, and I travelling here is always a better part of my day. 

Did I mention there were also ducks!?

Ducks

Self Introduction blog!

 

Malaysia (Merdeka 118)

Hi! My name is Cher-Zhen and I grew up in Malaysia! There, its always hot and sunny with a plethora of cheap but really good options everywhere. I was raised in a loving family of 5 in the suburbs of Kuala Lumpur and as of writing this, I'm a 2nd year student in University of Bath! I'm currently based in the UK where its cold and windy and am pursuing a bachelors degree in Computer Science! I like the weather here(sometimes) and the overall vibe over here. I've been experimenting with different hobbies such as cooking and running recently and I'm also the chairperson of the Malaysian Society here. I enjoy talking to people and working on innovative projects and just generally seeing plans come to fruition. I'm always looking out for more oppurtunities to develop my personal growth and I'm a firm believer that a good community stimulates good behaviour!

United Kingdom(Skyline,Bath)

Aside from my general information, I am an avid nature lover and love spending time going on lesiurely walks with my dog! I really enjoy just going outside and enjoying what the natural world has to offer. Coupled with a good playlist, saturday mornings spent hiking or trekking is ideal for me. Before interning at Tsuin.Ai, I was working as a Cybersecurity intern in UOB Malaysia where I got loads of hands on experience dealing with ID Management. and before that I've worked several customer service jobs after my IGCSE's and A-Levels to earn some extra pocket money but I've simultaneously gained some extremely important life lessons that still follow me till this day! I'm happy to chat to anyone that reaches out, and I'm looking forward to meeting new people and learning from everyone! :D

Anne of Green Gables

 

One Canadian book that I would really like to read is Anne of Green Gables by Lucy Maud Montgomery. This classic novel was first published in 1908 and is set in Prince Edward Island, a place known for its beautiful landscapes and strong cultural traditions. It is one of the most famous works of Canadian literature, loved by readers all around the world. I am especially interested in this book because it represents not only the story of one girl’s life but also an introduction to Canadian nature, history, and values.

The story follows Anne Shirley, an imaginative orphan girl who is mistakenly sent to live with Marilla and Matthew Cuthbert, two siblings who originally wanted to adopt a boy to help with their farm. Despite the mistake, Anne becomes part of their household and gradually wins their hearts with her lively personality. She faces challenges at school, builds friendships, and learns the importance of family, belonging, and personal growth.

I first became interested in this book after seeing photos of the beautiful scenery of Prince Edward Island. The landscapes looked so peaceful and unique that I immediately thought it would be a wonderful place to visit someday. When I later learned that this island was the setting of Anne of Green Gables, I became even more curious about the story.

Another reason I want to read this book is that it reflects Canadian culture and identity. Prince Edward Island is described with vivid detail, from the “Green Gables” house to the surrounding countryside. Through the story, I would like to learn how Canadians in the early twentieth century lived, what values were important to them, and how their connection with nature shaped their daily lives. I believe reading this book would give me a deeper understanding of the cultural background of the country I am experiencing now.

In conclusion, Anne of Green Gables is not just a children’s story but a timeless Canadian novel that explores universal themes such as family, friendship, identity, and hope. Even though I have not read the book yet, I am eager to do so because I believe it will help me learn more about Canadian culture and also inspire me to approach life with more imagination and courage. For these reasons, I consider this novel to be the Canadian book that I most want to read in the near future.

Different Spirits: Humor in Osaka and Formality in Tokyo

My hometown Osaka is not only famous for delicious food and historic landmarks, but also for the warm and humorous character of its people. Osaka people are often described as friendly, direct, and cheerful.Unlike in some other parts of Japan, they are not shy about expressing their feelings and are quick to strike up conversations, even with strangers. This openness creates a unique atmosphere where visitors immediately feel welcomed.

A key feature of Osaka culture is the Kansai dialect, which sounds quite different from standard Japanese. Kansai dialect is often described as rhythmical, expressive, and even playful. For example, the simple phrase "Thank you" is usually "arigatou", but in Osaka people often say "ookini", which carries a warmer and more casual feeling. Because of its lively tone, Kansai dialect is strongly associated with humour and is frequently used by comedians to make their jokes sound funnier.

(Dotonbori)

Osaka is also considered the birthplace of Japanese comedy. The style called "manzai", performed by two comedians who exchange quick and witty dialogue, has its roots in Osaka and remains popular all over Japan today. However, comedy in Osaka is not only performed on stage; it is part of daily life. People enjoy making jokes in casual conversations, and even shopkeepers or taxi drivers may add humor to their words. This shows how laughter is deeply woven into the culture of the city.

Compared to Tokyo, which is the capital and often seen as formal, fast-paced, and business-oriented, Osaka has a more relaxed and approachable atmosphere. People in Tokyo may appear polite but distant, while people in Osaka tend to be more direct and willing to joke around. For instance, in Tokyo it is less common for strangers to casually talk to each other, but in Osaka this happens naturally. This cultural difference makes Osaka stand out as a city where humour and friendliness are essential parts of everyday life.

(Namba Grand Kagetsu, the most famous comedy theatre  in Osaka)

Growing up in Osaka, I experienced this cheerful culture every day. At school, even teachers sometimes told jokes to makes the lessons more enjoyable. In public, I often heard strangers laughing together, even if they had just met. These small but memorable moments taught me that humour is not only about laughing, but also about building connections between people

In conclusion, Osaka is a city full of warmth, humour, and openness. The personality of its people, the charm of Kansai dialect, the rich comedy culture, and the contrast with Tokyo all highlight what makes Osaka unique. This lively and welcoming spirit is one of the reasons I am proud to call Osaka my hometown, and it is also why many visitors leave the city with unforgettable memories. 

London: A City That Remains in My Heart

 

Do you have a dream destination, a place you hope to visit at least once in your lifetime?
For me, that place is England—and more specifically, London. Not only did I travel there, but I also had the chance to live in London for two years. Because of that, my connection with the city goes beyond being just a tourist—it feels like a second home.

(On Oxford Street)

When I first arrived in London, I was amazed by the iconic landmarks. Seeing Big Ben, Buckingham Palace, and the Tower of London in real life was surreal. Walking along the River Thames at night, with the London Eye lit up in the background, gave me a sense of excitement that never faded, no matter how many times I passed by.

However, the true beauty of London is not only in its famous attractions, but also in the everyday experiences. I loved exploring the different neighborhoods, each with its own personality. Camden had an alternative, creative energy with its music and street art. Notting Hill was colorful and charming, especially during the annual carnival. Shoreditch was trendy and modern, filled with unique cafés and street markets. Every part of the city felt like a new adventure.

(Camden Town)

One of my favorite things about living in London was the museums and galleries. The fact that so many of them are free is incredible. I spent hours inside the British Museum, amazed by artifacts from around the world, and the National Gallery, where I could stand in front of masterpieces by Van Gogh or Monet. For someone who loves art and history, London felt like an endless treasure chest.

(British Museum)

Of course, life in London was not only about culture and sightseeing—it was also about people. London is one of the most international cities in the world, and I could meet people from so many different countries and backgrounds. On the Tube, in cafés, or at school, I was always surrounded by different languages and cultures. That diversity made me feel connected to a global community, and it taught me to be more open-minded and curious.

Looking back, my two years in London were some of the most meaningful in my life. The city shaped who I am today and gave me unforgettable memories. For me, London is not just a place to visit—it is a place that will always feel like home. One day, I truly hope to return and experience that feeling again.

Upcoming Events in Montreal!

Looking for something fun and exciting to do this weekend in Montreal? From live music and theatre to delicious food and cultural celebrations, the city has something for everyone. Here’s a roundup of some of the most interesting events happening around town:

Festival des arts du ruelle

The streets of Montreal come alive with art! Various corners of the city transform into open-air stages, featuring live music, theatre, and parades. Walking through these streets feels like stepping into a unique festival, with art around every corner. It’s a great way to experience creativity up close while enjoying the lively atmosphere of the city.

Montreal Ukrainian Festival

The Montreal Ukrainian Festival is a celebration of culture and cuisine. Visitors can enjoy traditional Ukrainian dishes while taking in live performances and exploring a vibrant marketplace. It’s a lively event where food, music, and cultural experiences come together, offering something fun for everyone.

West Island Blues Festival

The West Island Blues Festival is a must for music lovers. Held in Pointe-Claire Village, the festival brings the community together to enjoy the best in blues music. With live performances that continue into the evening, it’s a spirited celebration of rhythm, talent, and local culture.

Volaria air show

The Volaria Air Show in Mirabel is a fascinating event for anyone interested in the history of aviation and the future of the industry. Visitors can enjoy an impressive outdoor display of vintage aircraft and learn about the evolution of aeronautics, all in an exciting and interactive setting.

Dumpling Fest Montreal

Get ready to explore a variety of restaurants and flavors, from Filipino lumpia and Japanese gyoza to Korean mandu, Mexican empanadas, Nepalese momos, and more. During the evening tasting event, each restaurant will offer small plates for you to try, giving you the chance to enjoy a wide range of cuisines all in one night.

Montreal hosts a wide variety of events throughout the year, so there is always something new and exciting to experience. Whether you’re interested in music, art, food, or culture, there’s never a dull moment in this vibrant city.

My Idea for a Future Business: A public Toilet Finder App

 

Have you ever been out in the city and suddenly needed to find a restroom, but couldn't locate one nearby? This is a situation I have experienced many times, and it can be stressful-especially when you are in a new area, traveling, or on a tight schedule. Most of the time, the only available option is to go into a café or restaurant and buy something just to use their facilities. This inconvenience inspired me to come up with an idea for a business that could help solve this problem for many people.

My idea is to create an app that allows users to quickly and easily find public restrooms on a map. The app would display available restrooms int shopping malls, public buildings, parks, and other free-to-use facilities. It could also include helpful information such as opening hours, accessibility options, cleanliness ratings, and even whether baby-changing tables are available.

One of the key features of the app would be community participation. Users could add new restroom locations, leave reviews, and upload photos to keep the information up to date and accurate. This would make the app more reliable over time and create a sense of collaboration among users.

I believe this app could be particularly helpful for tourists who are visiting a city for the first time, parents with young children, elderly people, or anyone with specific health needs. Having quick access to this information could make outings less stressful and more enjoyable for everyone.

In the future, I would love to work on developing this app and see it become a tool that makes urban life a little easier. This project would also allow me to apply my skills in web and mobile development while solving a real-world problem that affects many people every day.