Auroral Phenomena.

Happy birthday to me.

Aurora Borealis (or the northern lights), named after the Roman goddess of dawn, Aurora, and the Greek name for the north wind, Boreas, by Pierre Gassendi in 1621.

In Finnish Lapland you'll find Igloo Village, part of Hotel Kakslauttanen. Igloo Village is a very unique ice hotel and is quite popular among adventurous Finland travelers looking for a night in a real igloo. You can book your own igloo here between December and April and stay in: snow igloos for an authentic arctic experience, traditional rustic log cabins, or warm glass igloos to watch the Northern Lights (Dance of the Spirits) from your bed.

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Censoring art, by Facebook

I am fond of art, but have an affinity for fine sculpture. I came across the above statue, in Saint Tropez, and snapped a quick photo of it. I had uploaded it to my facebook account, and when I logged in, I had a very stern message telling me I had violated some clause by posting nudity. Even though I have a photo of Michelangelo's David. What do you think? Is posting a piece of art violating Facebook?

I have removed the photo, for now.

Be humble, for you are made of earth. Be noble, for you are made of stars.

Humans have always yearned to explore new lands; it would seem a sense of adventure is innate. I long to explore new lands, new cultures, new worlds.


Detection of another intelligent species would be the most profound event of our lifetimes, if not all of human history.

I have always been a big believer in SETI. If you are too, visit SETIstars.org today to help via private donations from the public. 

Some stars show you the way.

Truth is stranger than fiction.

Go confidently in the direction of your dreams. Live the life you have imagined. Be grateful for friends, family and future.

Upper Echelon, strategic and international studies

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Chilled, over ice, on the rocks

A lady isn't afraid to try new things. Ashley Hughes going into a -110 degree celsius ice sauna that's colder than the atmosphere. 

Every once in awhile, something unknown or an unusual opportunity presents itself. I like to analyze the pros and cons, and if the outcome is positive, I am usually keen to try anything a little daring... especially when after closer examination, it is actually beneficial and good for your body.

At -110 degrees, your breath turns to snowflakes.

Here David and I go into the -110 degree sauna for 3 minutes... colder than our atmosphere... which is great if I plan to go to space...

Not exactly roughing it.

A portrait of a lady: Ashley Hughes is not exactly roughing it at Beaver Creek Resort.

Beaver Creek is a feast for the eyes, a delight for the senses. The influence of renowned resorts such as Switzerland's St. Moritz, Italy's Cortina, and Spain's Val d'Aran led to the creation of a unique mountain resort full of excitement and village luxury. It also feels a bit like Whistler, BC.

It is a lovely place to visit. It's slogan: not exactly roughing it

It's quite beautiful and quiet here

A lady takes in the view. Ashley Hughes staring off into the horizon in Monaco.

Adopting new traditions... and hacking life

Ashley Hughes has a wonderful experience and lesson on how the proper construction can endure the seasons, time and mother natures wrath. (Now time for my lady-like nap)

Find a little king in your cake, and you are king for the day. In my case, queen. Here is a little tour of one of the villa's, my favorite, Alisa's beach house. The construction is 100% typhoon proof, 100% cyclone proof and 100% beautiful.

Here is a sneak preview

Kindness, it's the new cool.

A portrait of a Lady: Ashley Hughes lounging lady-like at the sea lounge in Monte-Carlo

One of my favorite things are random acts of kindness. Little things, silly things. I like the expression on people's faces. It bothers me that some people are so surprised and tears well up, it's almost as if some one hasn't been kind to them in a long while. Others, baffle me even more... some refuse it and almost accuse that it has to be a trick, a ploy... that there has to be a motive. We all could use a little more kindness. Kindness, it's the new cool. Pass it on. (oops, I really mean, pay it forward)...

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The world could use a few more heroes.

As you may be aware, one of my friends has a child who was born with a disability. I adore this little fellow, and have seen first hand all the obstacles he has had to overcome.  He has motivated me to do my part to raise awareness for a cause that really means a lot to me.

Ashley Hughes is dressed up as a super hero in Vancouver

It's the least I can do.

And here we go skyscraper rappelling...


To top it all off, we won best costume!

"Siren"s of the sea.

A portrait of a lady: Ashley Hughes lounging lady-like on a megayacht off the coast of Cannes

The EOLb is just the tender. (For those that know).

All that is gold does not glitter,

Not all those who wander are lost. When wandering the playgrounds of the rich and famous, I always like to take some time to enrich my learning experience by chatting with the locals, the museums and art galleries... but my favorite is visiting any UNESCO world heritage sites. It is a great way to learn about different cultures, people and ancient history.

Vision is the art of seeing what is invisible to others.

Like a secret nookie room, and stingray skin wallpaper...

http://geopolicraticus.wordpress.com/2010/05/06/panic-room-at-sea/

Have courage to lose sight of the shore.

 

Wanderlust is a strong desire for or impulse to wander or travel and explore the world.

I crave to explore, and learn about new cultures and ideas. I thirst for knowledge and adventure. I hunger for the possibilities of what is yet to come.  

Seeing things from the lady's point of view.

A portrait of a lady: Ashley Hughes at Tucker's Point, Bermuda.

I once heard a quote along the lines of "what you see in others, lies within you". It is funny, that with those 8 words, I find myself repeating them whenever a less-than-positive thought crosses my mind about another. I find it helps me in my judgement making process. I look at people and situations a little differently, and it redirects my way of thinking. Walk a mile in another's (hopefully stylish) shoes, as you do not know what journey they have had.

Cambridge Beaches, Bermuda

* a lady like Ashley Hughes, leaves Vancouver to travel to places like Bermuda to observe their rain-water collection methods and use of solar power.

A matter of Equality. (A few helpful reminders...)

It is proper common courtesy, and we all can use a little refreshing. I am fond of improving myself, and hope to continue. This post here is for the Gentlemen.


* a Lady like Ashley Hughes, prefers the company of a gentleman. Why are they harder to find here in Vancouver?

High on LIFE. A different kind of rush.

Ashley Hughes adores learning new things. In this picture she is learning to fly a plane over Vancouver.  (with helpful notes on her lap as you can see).

If you are seeking adventure, take calculated risks and aim high. Trust me, if I can do this, so can you. It is a mental battle, and it is worth it to overcome fear. So worth it.

Dare to be different and overcome the odds.

* Portrait of a lady: Ashley Hughes and Sir Richard Branson In Vancouver BC.

Another favorite person of mine. The man that dares to dream. Sending civilians to the edge of our atmosphere, taking them to the depths of the ocean. I think he is a true leader, a visionary and I hope I can learn from this great teacher. Sir Richard Branson.

Everything in moderation...

*A portrait of a lady: Ashley Hughes and Taittinger in St. Barths (champagne wars)

It is New Years and you are on a magical tropical island surrounded by your peers. These are the times you want to REMEMBER. Be aware of how much you partake in the festivities, because even a hot mess, still involves the word "mess". Never be the last to leave a party, and your personal safety should be your primary concern. Take care of your body, have fun, let loose, but always be a lady.


* A lady always knows her limits and enjoys moderation.

Be mindful of others, and their wishes.

* Portrait of a lady: Ashley Hughes and the Mega-Yachts

I always try to have a pair of deck shoes (white soles) as to not leave footprints or scuff marks on others property.

It is also good to be wary when taking pictures, as to not include any artwork or distinguishing photos of personal property when you are invited to another's private home/boat/plane/island. I learnt the hard way one time, and I am very aware about the sensitivities of my friends and respect their property.




This post is dedicated to David Lede. Without his concern for my safety, and the safety of his children, I would have never been made aware of the harsh reality of circumstances. With utmost respect. 




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Off the beaten path.

* A portrait of a lady: Ashley Hughes, in Iceland at the Blue Lagoon. I went to Iceland on the inaugural flight of Icelandic air, from Seattle. (Vancouver is a couple hours drive from Seattle). I also went to check out their effective use of alternate energy, geothermal.

Do not be fearful of new places, or cultures. You never know what you may come across, or who you will meet. This has been a resounding lesson in my travels. Be daring, be bold. Fortune favors the brave.


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Appreciation for the finer things.

* Portrait of a lady: Ashley Hughes, lounging lady-like at the Burj Al Arab, in Dubai.

Although it does not rank as high as appreciating mother nature, having knowledge about fine craftsmanship and attention to details is another skill-set. In addition to exploring natural wonders, I try to visit man made wonders as well. Masters of their craft. This photo was taken at my room in the world's only 7 star hotel, the Burj Al Arab, in Dubai.

Challenge fear. Try new things.

A portrait of a Lady: Ashley Hughes riding a camel through the desert in Oman.

I went to Dubai to visit my best friend, and had many exciting adventures. As I am experienced in riding horses, I decided to try camels. What an experience! Even though I was scared at times, it was a fun and one of the favorite memories from that trip.

The little things count.

* Portrait of a lady: Ashley Hughes and an alpine meadow.

Wandering in fields of gold. Waterfalls, snowflakes and everything mother nature has provided. Learn to appreciate natural wonders and don't forget to stop and smell the roses.

Your body is your temple.

Ashley Hughes in Vancouver wearing her tennis dress.

Take care of your body. Nourish it properly. Keep fit and flexible. Active living is engaging and fun. It is good for the soul too.

Learn to appreciate different forms of art.

Portrait of a lady: Ashley Hughes takes a dip in a one of a kind pool by world renown glass blowing artist Dale Chihuly

Life is beautiful, and offers many wonderous ways of expression and capturing beauty. I personally prefer blown glass, like my favorite above picture. This one of a kind pool is by the talented and world renown Dale Chihuly. 



* Ashley Hughes in a one of a kind pool made by Dale Chihuly to showcase his beautiful art work.

Dress for Success

A portrait of a Lady: Ashley Hughes is wearing a tunic from Roberto Cavalli's original store in St. Barths and Hugo Boss shoes to the Bal de l'ete, in Monaco.

In the recent years, fashion trends have seen young women showing more and more and exposing themselves at a very young age. The attire that you wear in public speaks volumes about you. I prefer to be feminine and elegant, with a little flair for the unusual. (It helps leave a positive first impression.)

Be a part of history.

Ashley Hughes, Proud Torch-bearer for the Vancouver 2010 Olympics

Opportunities are fleeting. Grab them when you can. But if you are lucky enough to experience a once in a lifetime chance, make sure to pay it forward one day. I was lucky enough to carry the Olympic torch for Vancouver 2010 Olympics. It rests on my mantle now. One day I hope to be in the position where my company or myself can sponsor an athlete, or assist in any way I can so that another will get to have such a great lasting memory.

I have been asked how I got this amazing opportunity, but it was really Peter Brown who planted this seed. You see, he was asked to carry the torch and instead passed along that chance to a top producer at the firm. I was so inspired that I made it my mission to tell everyone I wanted to do this and when they called me I could barely believe it was true.

Another highlight is Bryan Adams pulling me up on stage and singing "Run to you"...

Meeting your idols. Aim high. (And a word from the wise, they are people too).

A portrait of a Lady: Ashley Hughes and Bono, AKA Paul David Hewson

Choose to emulate the real leaders in this world. They are real life teachers and guides. Seek them out, talk to them, and most importantly learn from them and listen to what they have to say.


A portrait of Bono, an idol of mine, is as follows: (thank you wikipedia)

Paul David Hewson (born 10 May 1960), most commonly known by his stage name Bono (pronounced /ˈbɒnoʊ/ bon-oh), is an Irish singer, musician, and humanitarian best known for being the main vocalist of the Dublin-based rock band U2.  Bono writes almost all U2 lyrics, often using political, social, and religious themes. Bono is also widely known for his activism concerning Africa, for which he co-founded DATA, EDUN, the ONE Campaign and Product Red. He has organized and played in several benefit concerts and has met with influential politicians. Bono has been praised and criticized for his activism and involvement with U2. He has been nominated for the Nobel Peace Prize, was granted an honorary knighthood by Queen Elizabeth II of the United Kingdom, and was named as a Person of the Year by Time, among other awards and nominations. This post is dedicated to AG, whom we all know is "still a celebrity".

Learning from the best.

Ashley Hughes at the Palace Hotel Hermitage, in Monaco

Charity is extremely important. Giving back and leaving a legacy are two important things in my life. As I needed to add some experience in this field, I attended numerous fund raisers around the world to participate on many levels, including attending the Bal de l'ete, Under the High Patronage of HSH Prince Albert II of Monaco, in aid of the Sovereign Order of Malta.

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