The Best Albums of 2008
These are the albums that I play(ed) most often and rated highly.
Art vs. Games
My problem with games is that I just can’t be bothered. I don’t feel any desire to find the treasure, rescue the princess or score points. By contrast, art engages me both intellectually and emotionally and allows my thoughts to wander.
Holland Animation Film Festival 2008
My favourite shorts from the 2008 edition of the Holland Animation Film Festival.
I'm a Cyborg But That's OK
"I'm a Cyborg But That's OK" is yet another highly intelligent movie by Park Chan-wook. It's also a visual treat and in its own special way profoundly moving.
The Economics of Hotel Prices
The primary determinants of hotel room rates are location and room size. Of course the more expensive hotels do their best to hide this.
Porto
I had a great time in Porto both times I visited the city. I enjoyed walking around the old town and taking some photos of the dense cityscape.
Lisbon
Lisbon has a great vibe. I've only visited twice but I'd love to go back one day to see what has changed and what has remained the same.
Praia da Ursa
Praia da Ursa or Ursa Beach is one of the most beautiful beaches in Portugal.
Richard Flanagan: The Unknown Terrorist
The Unknown Terrorist feels very contemporary and has a great sense of urgency.
The Informal City
The Informal City is governed by an inverse logic of the fixed and the ephemeral. Rigid structures are temporary and can be replaced at any time, whereas ephemeral structures are permanent, not in terms of site or structure, but as building types that pop up everywhere and at any time.
Teatro de Ciertos Habitantes: De Monstruos y Prodigios
A history of the castrati doesn’t sound like an obvious theme for a theatre production. But at least it’s different. And difference is interesting.
Dan Ariely: Predictably Irrational
Predictably Irrational is a fun read and if you're unfamiliar with behavioural economics you may do some interesting discoveries about yourself that you can take advantage of. If however you are already familiar with behavioral economics you may find the book a bit flimsy.