Police are on the hunt for a black man who robbed a woman, 31, as she walked from Kingsbury Train Station at around 7pm on Wednesday 13th.
The man, still unidentified, was wearing a grey hooded top and reportedly attacked the woman, throwing her to the ground and taking her hand bag. He was then seen running towards Roe Green Park, Kingsbury.
Anyone with information should call Brent Police on 020 8733 3159 or Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111
Reflective report: This news story was part of our emergency services assignment. I got it through a press release from Brent Police Press Office that was provided to Harrow Observer reporters. There were several stories, but I choose this one because I thought it was an unusual incident that would make an interesting news-in-brief. After revision, I was told to make it more urgent. I tried to do this by adding the element of “police hunt” and changing the language to make it sound more pressing. It would be interesting to follow up on the case to see whether or not the man was caught by police. In case he did get caught, I would continue to look into it and possibly report on the court proceedings (if any). It would also be interesting to do a background check of similar incidents in the area and, if they are common or on the rise, what police and the community plan to do about it. Also, if possible, I would contact the victim and get the story from her point of view. This would present a good picture opportunity.
Saturday, 8 December 2007
Suspicious fire in Kirkdale warehouse
Arsonists could be behind the fire that severely damaged a two storey warehouse building in Kirkdale, Sydenham, yesterday afternoon.
Flames consumed the empty and disused warehouse and it took six fire engines and around 30 firefighters to put out.
Robert McTaggart, Brigade spokesperson, said: “We are investigating the fire, but fortunately no victims were reported.”
London Fire Brigade is appealing to anyone with information to contact them on 020 7587 2000
Reflective report: As part of our emergency services assignment, I went with a colleague to the local fire Brigade in Uxbridge. Although the visit was interesting and enjoyable, we failed to get any current news stories as there had been no real emergency calls in the past few days.
I decided to look on the London Fire Brigade website for recent emergency calls around London and found a few. I called the press officer to ask about this particular one, as the fact that it was an empty and disused warehouse caught my attention. I spoke to Robert McTaggart, brigade spokesperson, who confirmed that the fire was under investigation and that there had not been any injuries. Neither McTaggart nor the website confirmed the name of the road and only said it took place in Kirkdale. This would be something to look at if doing a follow up of the story.
My original story was a little flat, as I was told after revision. I spiced it up, upon advice, by adding the possibility of an arson attack. The story could be followed up by a report on the course of the investigation into how the fire was started. If indeed arsonists had been involved, it would be interesting to talk to those involved and do a report about criminal and antisocial behaviour around the area.
Flames consumed the empty and disused warehouse and it took six fire engines and around 30 firefighters to put out.
Robert McTaggart, Brigade spokesperson, said: “We are investigating the fire, but fortunately no victims were reported.”
London Fire Brigade is appealing to anyone with information to contact them on 020 7587 2000
Reflective report: As part of our emergency services assignment, I went with a colleague to the local fire Brigade in Uxbridge. Although the visit was interesting and enjoyable, we failed to get any current news stories as there had been no real emergency calls in the past few days.
I decided to look on the London Fire Brigade website for recent emergency calls around London and found a few. I called the press officer to ask about this particular one, as the fact that it was an empty and disused warehouse caught my attention. I spoke to Robert McTaggart, brigade spokesperson, who confirmed that the fire was under investigation and that there had not been any injuries. Neither McTaggart nor the website confirmed the name of the road and only said it took place in Kirkdale. This would be something to look at if doing a follow up of the story.
My original story was a little flat, as I was told after revision. I spiced it up, upon advice, by adding the possibility of an arson attack. The story could be followed up by a report on the course of the investigation into how the fire was started. If indeed arsonists had been involved, it would be interesting to talk to those involved and do a report about criminal and antisocial behaviour around the area.
Tuesday, 13 November 2007
Caracas city guide for Realbuzz.com
I was asked to write a Caracas city guide for realbuzz.com, an online magazine that focuses on travel, sports, fitness and outdoors. I was a bit apprehensive at the thought of writing a tourist guide for Caracas, considering the state of political unrest and prevailing insecurity in the city at the moment. Thinking it over, though, there are plenty of nice things to do around Caracas. I guess being a native, I forget to look at it from a foreigner's point of view. In the end, this is what I came up with:
Caracas city guide by Isabel Garcia-Nevett
The capital of Venezuela is a huge, sprawling, metropolitan city. Although it is not exactly tourist-friendly, there are plenty of things to do for the inspired traveller. People are friendly, restaurants abound and the night-life is very active. The mountains surrounding the city are particularly good for unwinding and getting in touch with nature.
A word of caution: safety is a big issue in Caracas and it pays to be extra careful with your belongings and to avoid certain areas, such as city centre and Petare, especially at night.
Top five things to do in Caracas
Cerro Avila
The city sits within a valley surrounded by the Avila Mountain. Green and huge, this is what Caraquenos miss when they leave the city. There are two options for visiting this lovely place. For an active and healthy outing, there are beautiful walks to Sabas Nieves and El Picacho. A more leisurely way to go up the mountain to enjoy the views is on the cable-car or Teleferico. There are many restaurants at the top, from fondue places to Spanish tapas bars.
Areperas
The traditional areperas are perfect for a bite after a big night out or a hearty breakfast before going off on an expedition in the morning. Their main offerings are arepas: round, flattened portions of dough made with corn-flour with a wide variety of fillings, from the conventional ham and cheese to the more unusual octopus or quail eggs. There are other Venezuelan specialties to be found, such as cachapas (sweet corn pancakes) or chupe de gallina (milky chicken soup with potatoes, cheese and corn). The best areperas are scattered around Las Mercedes and Altamira, with special mention going out to Gran Horizonte (La Castellana) and La Casa del Llano (Las Mercedes).
El Hatillo
There are not too many places to walk around in Caracas, but El Hatillo is definitely one of them. This is a suburb to the south of Caracas, a little higher up the mountain. Parts of it still maintain a very cosy, colonial feel, with a lovely square and church. There are tons of small shops and art galleries around for a nice afternoon visit. Enjoy churros con chocolate in one of the tiny cafes.
Centro San Ignacio
Venezuelans love shopping centres and Centro San Ignacio is one of the most exclusive. It is worth a visit just for the lovely open-space architecture and hip surroundings. This is also one of the biggest night-life centres in Caracas, with some four big discos and around a dozen bars and restaurants open every night. The best mojitos in town can be found here at Roneria Santa Teresa.
Catch a baseball game
Venezuelans are big baseball fans and a trip to a game in the stadium at Universidad Central de Venezuela during the season (between October and January) is a fun experience, especially if you can catch a game between the local team, Los Leones de Caracas, and archrivals Navegantes del Magallanes. This is the Venezuelan equivalent to a Manchester v Liverpool match. There’s beer, food stands and hundreds of friendly locals going crazy over the fate of the lions (Los Leones).
Where to stay in Caracas
The best and swankiest hotels are in La Castellana, with JW Marriott and Embassy Suites standing out as the best. The traditional Hotel Tamanaco, in Las Mercedes, has had a recent face-lift and has the best views of the city in very atmospheric settings.
Where to eat and drink in Caracas
Venezuelans are famous for loving good food. The streets of Las Mercedes offer many excellent restaurants, such as Astrid y Gaston (from famed Peruvian restaurateur Gaston Acuna) and Bar Si, an elegant Thai and sushi joint. Meat is a big part of the local diet, with traditional grill restaurants serving huge cuts of beef with lots of delicious side dishes. Among the favourites are El Alazan in Altamira and Belle Vue in El Hatillo. In the biggest shopping centre, the Sambil, there are many good alternatives that offer great views of the city.
How to get around
The underground is probably the safest way to get around town, although it doesn’t cover the entire city. If using a taxi service, make sure it is from a registered company and discuss the price before setting off. Avoid buses, but if in need try using the Metrobus (part of the underground service).
When to go
Venezuela is right below the Equator and that means the weather is great all year round. The rainy season, between May and September, can be damp. Christmas is a big event in Venezuela, with lots of traditional foods and events, so it is a great time to visit the decked-out Caracas.
Caracas city guide by Isabel Garcia-Nevett
The capital of Venezuela is a huge, sprawling, metropolitan city. Although it is not exactly tourist-friendly, there are plenty of things to do for the inspired traveller. People are friendly, restaurants abound and the night-life is very active. The mountains surrounding the city are particularly good for unwinding and getting in touch with nature.
A word of caution: safety is a big issue in Caracas and it pays to be extra careful with your belongings and to avoid certain areas, such as city centre and Petare, especially at night.
Top five things to do in Caracas
Cerro Avila
The city sits within a valley surrounded by the Avila Mountain. Green and huge, this is what Caraquenos miss when they leave the city. There are two options for visiting this lovely place. For an active and healthy outing, there are beautiful walks to Sabas Nieves and El Picacho. A more leisurely way to go up the mountain to enjoy the views is on the cable-car or Teleferico. There are many restaurants at the top, from fondue places to Spanish tapas bars.
Areperas
The traditional areperas are perfect for a bite after a big night out or a hearty breakfast before going off on an expedition in the morning. Their main offerings are arepas: round, flattened portions of dough made with corn-flour with a wide variety of fillings, from the conventional ham and cheese to the more unusual octopus or quail eggs. There are other Venezuelan specialties to be found, such as cachapas (sweet corn pancakes) or chupe de gallina (milky chicken soup with potatoes, cheese and corn). The best areperas are scattered around Las Mercedes and Altamira, with special mention going out to Gran Horizonte (La Castellana) and La Casa del Llano (Las Mercedes).
El Hatillo
There are not too many places to walk around in Caracas, but El Hatillo is definitely one of them. This is a suburb to the south of Caracas, a little higher up the mountain. Parts of it still maintain a very cosy, colonial feel, with a lovely square and church. There are tons of small shops and art galleries around for a nice afternoon visit. Enjoy churros con chocolate in one of the tiny cafes.
Centro San Ignacio
Venezuelans love shopping centres and Centro San Ignacio is one of the most exclusive. It is worth a visit just for the lovely open-space architecture and hip surroundings. This is also one of the biggest night-life centres in Caracas, with some four big discos and around a dozen bars and restaurants open every night. The best mojitos in town can be found here at Roneria Santa Teresa.
Catch a baseball game
Venezuelans are big baseball fans and a trip to a game in the stadium at Universidad Central de Venezuela during the season (between October and January) is a fun experience, especially if you can catch a game between the local team, Los Leones de Caracas, and archrivals Navegantes del Magallanes. This is the Venezuelan equivalent to a Manchester v Liverpool match. There’s beer, food stands and hundreds of friendly locals going crazy over the fate of the lions (Los Leones).
Where to stay in Caracas
The best and swankiest hotels are in La Castellana, with JW Marriott and Embassy Suites standing out as the best. The traditional Hotel Tamanaco, in Las Mercedes, has had a recent face-lift and has the best views of the city in very atmospheric settings.
Where to eat and drink in Caracas
Venezuelans are famous for loving good food. The streets of Las Mercedes offer many excellent restaurants, such as Astrid y Gaston (from famed Peruvian restaurateur Gaston Acuna) and Bar Si, an elegant Thai and sushi joint. Meat is a big part of the local diet, with traditional grill restaurants serving huge cuts of beef with lots of delicious side dishes. Among the favourites are El Alazan in Altamira and Belle Vue in El Hatillo. In the biggest shopping centre, the Sambil, there are many good alternatives that offer great views of the city.
How to get around
The underground is probably the safest way to get around town, although it doesn’t cover the entire city. If using a taxi service, make sure it is from a registered company and discuss the price before setting off. Avoid buses, but if in need try using the Metrobus (part of the underground service).
When to go
Venezuela is right below the Equator and that means the weather is great all year round. The rainy season, between May and September, can be damp. Christmas is a big event in Venezuela, with lots of traditional foods and events, so it is a great time to visit the decked-out Caracas.
Tuesday, 6 November 2007
Celebrities are crazy people
Last week Naomi Campbell went to Venezuela to hang out with main man, Hugo Chavez. I was as perplexed as the next person, and more than a little outraged. I wondered if she even knew where Caracas was on a map (I wonder if she knows even now...). I don't even think it's her business to know. Then again, celebrities and artists are forever trying to get in touch with their "revolutionary" side, cue Kevin Spacey, Sean Penn and Danny Glover (who have also shaken their thing for the Venezuelan dictator). I could not help but agree with Anne Applebaum's excellent article, which I link here:
http://www.slate.com/id/2177484?Gt1=10636
I hope you enjoy it.
http://www.slate.com/id/2177484?Gt1=10636
I hope you enjoy it.
Tuesday, 23 October 2007
Good food in London
This article has been submitted for publication by Diario El Universal, in Caracas. It was originally written in Spanish and I will put up the link to the article as soon as it is published. Bear in mind that London has a bad food reputation among Venezuelans, which I think is undeserved! Maybe this article will help change minds...
Don’t believe the pessimists, British culinary tradition has changed
By Isabel Garcia-Nevett
The British capital is known for its big museums, unique historical monuments, charismatic royal family, fabulous parks and tons of shopping opportunities.
London is not really famous for gourmet cuisine. In fact, for many Venezuelans English food is limited to fish and chips and steak and kidney pie. However, the great mix of cultures that co-exist in London today has given birth to a wonderful variety of world cuisine. This is especially true of the Asian culinary tradition. Following are some options, from luxurious restaurants to cheaper, yet charming, fare.
Indian
The United Kingdom has inherited a special taste for Indian curries and exotic spices from its imperial days. This is probably why one can find restaurants serving this type of cuisine in almost every corner of the country. In London, Veeraswamy restaurant (99 Regent Street) boasts the title of first Indian restaurant in town, opened since 1926. This is an elegant place, with a menu of international Indian cuisine with a modern touch. Also on the map is the wonderful Tamarind (20 Queen Street), a luxurious restaurant in fancy Mayfair that specializes in Tandoori dishes. Tamarind has received accolades as one of the best Indian restaurants in London.
From the people at Veeraswamy, comes a good option for those on a tighter budget. The chain Masala Zone (with places in Soho, Earl’s Court and Islington) offers a good variety of classic Indian dishes at very reasonable prices in hip surroundings.
Chinese
The culinary tradition of this vast country is well represented in the streets of London. The famous Kai of Mayfair (65 South Audley Street) was named 2004’s best Chinese restaurant by the prestigious Zagat Guide. Their dishes go from perfect classics, such as sweet and sour pork and spicy chicken and cashew nuts, to less conventional dishes like shark’s fin soup and ostrich steak. However, if you are looking for atmosphere, there is nothing quite like the new China Tang (at The Dorchester Hotel, Park Lane). With an interior inspired by 1920s Shangai and an extensive dim sum menu and other traditional dishes, this is a wonderful dining experience.
For a more economic option, the best thing is to head towards Chinatown (Gerrard Street, Soho) where you can find numerous locales offering Cantonese, Pekingese and Szechwan cuisine. Chinatown is a cool place in itself, with tons of Chinese shops and markets. Many of the restaurants serve all-you-can-eat buffets and are open till late.
Thai
Although there are less Thai restaurants, this culinary tradition is still easily found in London. For a unique time, head to the Blue Elephant (3-6 Fulham Broadway). The entrance is like stepping inside a tropical forest in the middle of the city. The menu is quite extensive and includes all the classic Thai dishes. Another positively charming choice is the Churchill Arms (119 Kensington Church Street), a traditional English pub that has rented out its kitchen to an army of Thais that are in charge of serving big helpings of delicious dishes form their country at really great prices.
Don’t believe the pessimists, British culinary tradition has changed
By Isabel Garcia-Nevett
The British capital is known for its big museums, unique historical monuments, charismatic royal family, fabulous parks and tons of shopping opportunities.
London is not really famous for gourmet cuisine. In fact, for many Venezuelans English food is limited to fish and chips and steak and kidney pie. However, the great mix of cultures that co-exist in London today has given birth to a wonderful variety of world cuisine. This is especially true of the Asian culinary tradition. Following are some options, from luxurious restaurants to cheaper, yet charming, fare.
Indian
The United Kingdom has inherited a special taste for Indian curries and exotic spices from its imperial days. This is probably why one can find restaurants serving this type of cuisine in almost every corner of the country. In London, Veeraswamy restaurant (99 Regent Street) boasts the title of first Indian restaurant in town, opened since 1926. This is an elegant place, with a menu of international Indian cuisine with a modern touch. Also on the map is the wonderful Tamarind (20 Queen Street), a luxurious restaurant in fancy Mayfair that specializes in Tandoori dishes. Tamarind has received accolades as one of the best Indian restaurants in London.
From the people at Veeraswamy, comes a good option for those on a tighter budget. The chain Masala Zone (with places in Soho, Earl’s Court and Islington) offers a good variety of classic Indian dishes at very reasonable prices in hip surroundings.
Chinese
The culinary tradition of this vast country is well represented in the streets of London. The famous Kai of Mayfair (65 South Audley Street) was named 2004’s best Chinese restaurant by the prestigious Zagat Guide. Their dishes go from perfect classics, such as sweet and sour pork and spicy chicken and cashew nuts, to less conventional dishes like shark’s fin soup and ostrich steak. However, if you are looking for atmosphere, there is nothing quite like the new China Tang (at The Dorchester Hotel, Park Lane). With an interior inspired by 1920s Shangai and an extensive dim sum menu and other traditional dishes, this is a wonderful dining experience.
For a more economic option, the best thing is to head towards Chinatown (Gerrard Street, Soho) where you can find numerous locales offering Cantonese, Pekingese and Szechwan cuisine. Chinatown is a cool place in itself, with tons of Chinese shops and markets. Many of the restaurants serve all-you-can-eat buffets and are open till late.
Thai
Although there are less Thai restaurants, this culinary tradition is still easily found in London. For a unique time, head to the Blue Elephant (3-6 Fulham Broadway). The entrance is like stepping inside a tropical forest in the middle of the city. The menu is quite extensive and includes all the classic Thai dishes. Another positively charming choice is the Churchill Arms (119 Kensington Church Street), a traditional English pub that has rented out its kitchen to an army of Thais that are in charge of serving big helpings of delicious dishes form their country at really great prices.
Tuesday, 16 October 2007
Venezuela red-flagged by Human Rights Watch
Due process is to be suspended if and when the Government declares a state of emergency and such a state may be declared for an indefenite amount of time and actions will not be restricted by international human rights legislation. This is the latest news from the on-going Venezuelan constitutional reform and this time it has aroused international opinion.
According to Jose Miguel Vivancos, Americas director at Human Rights Watch, “This amendment, if approved, would allow President Chávez to invoke a state of emergency to justify suspending certain rights that are untouchable under international law”.
It is worrying to think that a government already known for disliking opponents and cristicisms, will now have the liberty to declare a state in which it will be able to repress any sort of public manifestations. It is impossible not to wonder whether the recent awakening of the student movement (largely opposed to major Bolivarian policies, especially the withdrawal of RCTV's open air signal - a privately owned television channel) influenced directly on this kind of legislation. Will it be Venezuela's young, independent and finally motivated students who suffer the consequences of this new law? For their sake, I hope not.
For more information on Human Rights Watch views on Venezuela:
http://hrw.org/doc/?t=americas&c=venezu
According to Jose Miguel Vivancos, Americas director at Human Rights Watch, “This amendment, if approved, would allow President Chávez to invoke a state of emergency to justify suspending certain rights that are untouchable under international law”.
It is worrying to think that a government already known for disliking opponents and cristicisms, will now have the liberty to declare a state in which it will be able to repress any sort of public manifestations. It is impossible not to wonder whether the recent awakening of the student movement (largely opposed to major Bolivarian policies, especially the withdrawal of RCTV's open air signal - a privately owned television channel) influenced directly on this kind of legislation. Will it be Venezuela's young, independent and finally motivated students who suffer the consequences of this new law? For their sake, I hope not.
For more information on Human Rights Watch views on Venezuela:
http://hrw.org/doc/?t=americas&c=venezu
Thursday, 4 October 2007
For objective cover on Venezuela: The Economist
It is my opinion that The Economist magazine in the UK offers the most accurate and objective coverage of Venezuelan news in the international media. This week there is an article about the Colombian hostages situation and the role of Chavez as a mediator.
Here is the link:
http://www.economist.com/world/la/displaystory.cfm?story_id=9769060
Here is the link:
http://www.economist.com/world/la/displaystory.cfm?story_id=9769060
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