Little Music Box of Thoughts

It was a weekday and I was out with my lovely boyfriend, running errands for his upcoming trip to India. Then, we decided to stop by at a PJ shopping mall triangle for lunch (initially it was Vichudda but it was closed due to the Ramadhan season, so, HURRAY!).

(Supermodel to Supernormal they say)

Right after our hearty lunch with BF and his couzD, we crossed to the other mall to grab couzD’s games. While stepping out from the mall, guess who I’ve bumped into. It’s by no surprise a very old friend that I’ve not seen (or sent off to some foreign country) in years.

Boy was I glad to see her. But same could not be say of her. She gave me the "oh-my-god-u-look-utterly-disgusting" look on her face. While she was trying to comprehend my current situation (I was without make-up and wearing my nerdy glasses, but I’m with my loving BF, so i don’t give a damn) I was polite enough to ask her for her new number. Arrgghh, why didn’t I just walk away and pretend I didn’t see her???

A million curses were popping in my head while she keys in her new number into my mobile and stealing glances at the new disgusting me. Amongst them are: "go #@$~# yourself your judgemental biatch!" and "at least i’m not bedding a million other penises to get a decent one".

When she’s finally done (look of horror still in her face), I practically ran as fast as I could. Those looks are socially inappropriate especially in an Asian country where politeness is of high importance.

I know what’s going on BF’s mind. "God, just walk away from that horrible s***"." He thinks that these plastic friends are bad for social health.

So, there’s this question that frequently conjours in my head. Am I the one who commits the social wrong for not putting on a mountain-neous amount of make up when I go out or should I be who I am, especially when my BF thinks I’m perfectly lovable without any make ups?

It’s been almost 2 weeks. I’m learning to survive on my own. Sometimes, it gets a little emotional. I’m a wreck at first. It was a roller coaster ride. But I’ve improved. I’m not afraid of the nights anymore. I drown myself with work. I just want to pass out and never wake up until he’s back again.

I appreciate you guys trying to help me out. Asking me out and so forth. But being around you guys didn’t make loneliness vanish into thin air. Even I’m with you guys, having fun, joking around, I still think, "How I wish he was here to laugh with me".

Would I be able to do it again? Can I let go again? Would there be a relapse? I dread the day when he has to go again. Can I just give myself a pat on the shoulder and say, "You did it the last time, why not this?"

Could I???

Bangkok is yet one of the best places to go for a low cost holiday. With lots of shopping, food and sightseeing, you’ll never get bored of the city that never sleeps.

Accommodation
Our flight and accommodation comes in a package: it costs around RM900 for a 4 star hotel and a return ticket by Air Asia. Upon checking in The Ambassador, we were slightly disappointed as the rooms were not as it seems on the net. Pictures deceive and it’s SO totally enhanced. The lobby reeks of distasteful and musky smell. The room is clean but the furniture needs to be replaced. I suddenly feel like we’ve been transported into the 80’s. The toilet has all the necessary supplies of towels but the same can’t be said about the toiletries. What was unforgivable is the condition of the bathtub. If you are the kind who loves bathing in the tub, you can forget it. Overall, the hotel is bearable; however, it’s a tad too old and needs a lot of improvement.

Breakfast was good though they do not have a variety of spread. Had lots of bacon, omelets, yogurt and croissant but do note that Thais love their food sweet so you got to balance the taste a bit. The service here is generally slow but the housekeeping staff did an excellent job. Though, the same can’t be said about other departments (they seem to mumble their slogan “Just a minute” quite often). The “minute” never seem to arrive.

Anyway, do note that you should not travel to Bangkok between June and July if you want to avoid clashing with the Arabian tourist.

I would recommend you to stay in the mushrooming brand new hotels like the Rembrandt, the Grand Business Inn or Hope Land. These hotels are nearer to the BTS station (their version of LRT) and affordable (RM110-RM150 per night) 

Getting Around
Tuk-tuk being the interesting ride in Bangkok can be expensive and dangerous on the other hand. But to fulfill you experience in Bangkok, tuk-tuk ride is a must. Just make sure you bargain before you get on it.

I did most of my traveling by the BTS Skytrain. It would costs more than the Putra LRT but its way cheaper than the colorful taxis available. Each stop will cost RM1. If you plan to do a lot of traveling by the train for the day, just get a day pass. It will save you a lot more money.

Public taxis comes in many different colors like shocking pink, crazy purple, a combo of yellow and green and red and blue, you won’t miss it! Private taxis here are usually all black, white of gold. All the taxi rides are rather comfortable as the cars used are usually imported cars. If you pass any toll, you will have to fork out the toll charges. From the airport to Sukhumvit is RM6 and it’s advisable to take the toll way to avoid the crazy traffic.

Another type of public transportation here is the motorcycle ride. When you see a man with an orange vest, he’s the motorcycle ride guy. A 2km motorcycle ride will cost around RM2 but they can get you to your destination real fast.

The Wat in Bangkok
The Thais are devoted Buddhist, therefore, a Wat (Temple) has a high place in the society as do the King. Pay the travel agent a fee of RM40 and they will take you to a temple tour. I chose the tour to Wat Po and Wat Trimitr. Wat Po is the temple of the “Reclining Buddha” and the view of the temple is spectacular, breath-taking. The temple is divided into different sections so be prepared for a long tour. Do make sure that you put on long pants and shirts that covers your shoulders as a sign of respect. Wat Trimitr, the temple with a giant statue of the Buddha made of 100% solid gold. A smaller temple but you’ll be amazed to see that the fortune teller is a machine. Isn’t it interesting?

Shopping in Air Conditioned Malls
Emporium (BTS Phrom Phong): similar to One Utama here, you can find almost anything that you want in the Emporium. Some merchandise available here are not available in Malaysia. Also don’t forget to ask for the 10% tourist discount.

Siam Paragon (BTS Siam): this is where the MTV Asia Awards was held. It’s the posh kind of shopping mall something like the Bangkok version of the Harrods. Name any designer labels and you will find it there, Versace, Dior, Hermes. Great place to feast your eyes.

MBK/ Mah Boon Krong (BTS National Stadium): you can get there either by taking a 10 minute walk from Siam Paragon or take the BTS train. MBK is like the Sungei Wang of Bangkok. Everything here can be bargained. From T-shirts to shoes to electronics. There’s also a very good food court on the 6th floor serving authentic Thai cuisine.

Shopping in Delight (non-air conditioned, of course)
Pratunam Market (BTS Ratchathewi): at the station, take a motorcycle ride as the market is far away from the station. The “lui yan gai” (Woman’s Street) of Bangkok. Here, fashionable clothing is sold by wholesale. The definition of wholesale here is purchasing items up to 3 pieces. You can get better rate if you purchase more than 3 pieces and everything is CHEAP CHEAP CHEAP! Though, the quality of some of the items might be compromised. Women will go crazy with this market!!!

Chatuchak Weekend Market (BTS Mo Chit): probably the largest open-air, weekend flea market. Especially for bargain-hunters looking for almost anything under the sun. You might need a battery operated hand held fan for this place. It’s amazing as every stall sells different items from one another. You can hardly find similar items among the stalls. But be warned, if you see something you like, buy it because you might not find the same stall with such a huge maze of stalls.

Nana Night Market
For those who want to do last minute purchases, check out the Nana Night Market, open every night. Obviously, there won’t be a large variety to choose from and items might be slightly pricey. However, it would be a fun walk down the street after a fulfilling dinner.

Night Entertainment
There are a lot of pubs and discos however, I chose to watch the Calypso Cabaret Show at Hotel Asia. Performed by “lady boys/katoeys” (transvestite), this entertaining 1 ½ show cost you RM60 if you purchase from the travel agents. You will experience performances from different cultures and mimicking of famous stars like Michael Jackson and Marilyn Monroe. More than that, you might also get to see what’s underneath those glittering costumes. At the end of the show, you will have the opportunity to take photos with the lady boys.

Food
No doubt foods in Bangkok come in a variety of choices and there’s only so much you can eat in 4 days. Foods in Bangkok are generally spicy and super sweet. Do make it a point to try the famous tom yum kung, green curry chicken rice, any dishes with pork (tasted different from Malaysia’s’) seafood (very fresh and affordable) and fast food!

Air conditioned eatery: Check out the small café next to the Grand Business Inn. For RM15, you will get 3 different dishes, rice and dessert of either fruits or ice cream. This meal will keep you full throughout the day.

Khao San Road is yet another sanctuary for “kwai lo” backpackers. This is where you can enjoy yummy fresh catch from the sea. Be sure not to walk into a “kwai lo” populated restaurant coz your bill might be hike up. You can also find Volkswagen Van transformed into a mobile bar where you can get a Dirty Martini to start you night. Also a must try is the falafel food cart. I have no idea what’s wrapping in the pita bread but it sure taste good.

O’Brien’s Sandwich Lovers, feast yourselves at the Subway, open for 24 hours with an assortment of sandwiches with different loafs, fillings and greens. Though, the sandwiches are rather pricey compared to O’Brien’s.

To all “chu chu” lovers, make sure you try the McDonald’s Samurai burger. I personally think it lack of spice in that burger but I guess the whole point is to really taste the yumminess of the pork patty.

Mango season has ended by the time I got there however, you can still find Mango Sticky Rice selling at MBK Food Court for RM7.

On the roadside, there’s cart selling chicken rice, rice noodles but you might wanna skip the food preparation part. You’ll never get dehydrated on the streets as you will frequently see drink stalls with lots of pandan coconut and soft drinks.

Also selling at the carts, try the fish sausages, very aromatic with strong taste of spices, pork and chicken sausages tasted weird, had a feeling that they mixed the whole chicken or chu chu to make the sausage.

P/s: We also found out that the Haagen Dazz pint is cheaper than Malaysia. Grab one yourself considering the heat in Bangkok.

Thai Massage
A normal massage package (3 different types of treatments) starts from RM180 onwards. I visited the Raintree Spa, Sukhumvit Soi 11, opposite the Ambassador, adorned with Thai interior. It’s serene looking exterior is perfect. There’s a menu to choose from and I took the Thai Herbal Massage (RM75 for 2 hours on promotion). A very nice Thai lady started by washing my feet with rose water, and then proceeded with some soft massage. It ended with a soft foot scrub and I was ushered to a room filled with nice flowy music for the massage. It was really good because I fell asleep throughout the whole process.

I hope this guide would be much help to those who’s about to visit Bangkok for the 1st time. Do let me know about your experience coz I’ll be back for some more of BANGKOK! Peace out! B Town!

Given the horrendous week I’ve had, I’ve decided to escape all the disappointment that has surrounded me. Bangkok! Here I come! When I say "Bang", You say "Kok" (gee, that doesn’t sound right!)

Anyway, please don’t hesitate to email me the list of stuffs that u guys want, availables on in Bangkok. Guys, no, I won’t mail back hookers from Bangkok for your amusement.

I hope this holiday will help me to jumpstart my life again. I’ll keep my fingers crossed. Til you hear from me again, "SAWATDEE"!

Today has been one of those days where the dark clouds seem to hang over your head and never wanting to go away. It’s funny how sometimes you sacrifice (or in my case i would think of it as a gamble) a Tom Cruise for something you really love like Brad Pitt. That’s what I did and guess what? Brad Pitt says I don’t love you. W-H-Y??? Because it’s way too late…Boo hoo!

Mind you, I ain’t talking about a guy. It’s just how life is, isn’t it. I’ve never felt more gutted than I am now, EVER in my life. It’s just gotten to something so hopeful to completely hopeless. I wish that the sand castle wouldn’t just crumble on me.

Ending my never-ending rant of the day, I shall go to sleep with the thought that never be too hopeful as one day EVIL will take it away from you. I gotta go pick up the bits and pieces of shattered confidence that I have left in me….

So, today didn’t turn out as I’ve expected. I’ve been keeping my fingers crossed so that the swell would actually vanish after the ultra expensive eye gel that I’ve been applying generously but…WRONG WRONG WRONG!

It turned into the "gigantic-swell-of-the-year and it bloody hurts. But really hurts is walking around with the giant swell and people staring, pointing and looking. I gotta give it to the 2 patients with a huge tumor on their face.

It’s funny how the society has turned to be. VANITY never loses its attraction. I mean, God, I was so afraid to meet people, to allow people to see me, for the first time in my life. I won’t even lift up my head at the security guard.

This is totally crazy. I need to snap out of this swell and mindset. Please pray for my fast recovery. In the name of vanity, I trust.

Remember the play dates that we all used to have when we were slightly younger? Maybe the girls could recall them. That cute little pink tea set, makeshift stove from the red bricks you find from the nearest house under renovation, plastic wok and the cool looking cash register.

Well, today, I experienced the “reality” part of the whole game. I volunteered to help out a close friend at his new restaurant, “Tasty Pot” (Damn, the food is absolutely divine, baby!). Being a greenhorn at the whole restaurant business, I would say that this experience is a far cry from the “masak masak” game.

Started out with memorizing (real hard!) the menu, the soup of the day, special on the menu…bla bla bla… I have to admit that my Cantonese is getting a bit rusty lately. My tongue still feels twisted from the “correct pronunciation” ordeal.

Learned how to use the cash register, damn bangga! Trust me, that machine actually much more fun than the McDonald’s cash register from Toys “R” Us. And you don’t have to really figure out the change, it does magic! Muahaha!

Then, the act of balancing the plates and bowls while at the same time trying to serve other pushy customers and trust me, they just won’t stop yelling, taking their orders, trying to understand Mandarin (yet another language blunder on my side). Still trying to figure out (or more appropriately, “Spit Out”) the translations of my English and Malay to Cantonese.

Since I’ve never really lifted a finger at home (ever since the Indonesian maid was made the permanent “family member”) serving the bowls of curry chicken and tau yew bak was rather a challenge. Customers always want their food crazy hot and boiling. I’m not making it up but you can still see the blister on my finger…boo hoo. (Ok Ok, I know, stop whining you crybaby!).

What’s even harder is the ability to multi-task, trying not to get the orders wrong. I guess the kitchen needs to be more systematic in that but overall, both the star dish was SOLD OUT! We had people eating in and taking away (again, I would like to stress this, food is absolute heaven!)

By the end of the day (or rather the 5-hour lunch ordeal), I’ve completely exhausted all my willpower to go on for another day. My hair reeks of the cooking, smells like a mixture of curry chicken and tau yew bak, (Mmmm). My arms are so tired, and my legs are wobbly, as if I’ve played at yesterday’s Brazil Vs Australia match. And I asked myself, was my childhood “masak masak” ambition something that I would mold into a career? I think the answer is clear.

But with all due of respect, I think my dear Adrian bro did an exceptionally great job with the restaurant despite this being his “firstborn” project. Food was good, hell who am I kidding, IT’S GREAT! Shop was handsomely decorated. Ambience was all there.

Bro, congratulations, you did a perfectly great job with your dream restaurant. Be patient, success is just around the corner and your firstborn will grow and have more babies (branches, that is).

As for the rest of the In2-tions, make sure you guys visit him from time to time, for encouragement and the willpower to go on. To all my friends who had a chance to view this entry, do drop by Tasty Pot @ Sunway Mentari Business Park (it’s a new row of shop lots). The shop is located opposite Domino’s Pizza (visible from LDP), with mushrooming buffet steamboat at the same row as Projet Station. Till then…

so, i was having a SMS war the other day. this so-called self-proclaimed TV celebrity that i know was blasting sms getting us to check out his "big" interview in a local trash mag. not only he did it once but twice. irritated, i sent him one giving him a piece of my mind. i told him that it’s irritating to receive his stupid promo multiple times and that there’s gotta be more than life than his short lived glamour.

maybe his ego was bigger than his lil bro’s down under. he was angry and started saying that i was jealous and compared me with gals who are not pretty and green with envy. i mean, hello. you sort of intrude my privacy at the first place and now i’m jealous? WAKE UP AND SMELL YOUR OWN SHIT, DUDE!

then he started saying that i have attitude problem and everyone says that. i know who’s everybody fyi. back to the issue. do i really have attitude problem? i think the chick who badmouthed me has a bigger attitude prob than me. not to mention i stood up for her when everyone was negative about her. so much for being her friend, huh? lyn, i know you would say i told you so. i totally believe you now.

feedback from people who knows me (REALLY WELL), please tell me. do i really have attitude problem? or was i a victim of someone else’ wrongdoing?

well, enough of the negative side. something else brought my mood back. i ended my night partying away with some high school buddies. got really wasted and danced all night long (according to bro’s testimonial, i don’t believe the part about dancing on the podium, though). it was really fun having u guys by my side. teng, bro, kk & yy, thanks for all the good time. i know it’s been a long time since we hung out together. it was nice to be back in the circle. we still have to go back and finish the bottle, yea. and boys, really appreciate the high school end year’s traditional slow dance. i know i missed that one out too. but trust me, my partying days will be back on real soon! Yee hah!

i’ve always thought that once i step into the dog eat dog world of employment, i wouldn’t be able cope with the backstabbing. looking at the brighter side, it’s not all that bad.

my first month at the company gave me the most memorable experience. the most patient and forever funny Adrian, a serious but really smart independant woman that i respected, Liling. thank you guys for giving me the experience of a lifetime. ESWC was a success to me and you guys made it happen.

to the rest of the crew and marshal ck, delon, micheal, khai wei, fremon(hoped i spelled it correctly) douglas, sess, and anyone i’ve left out, you are not forgotten. it was really nice knowing you cool guys. sean, thanks for the advice on emceeing.

special thanks to andy and philo. you guys are really cool people to work with. lin chen and andy, thanks for helping me in a way to improve my mandarin.

of course, not forgetting my 4 beautiful young ladies, michelle, shirley, andrea and amanda, you gals rock! we should catch up for our gal gossip soon! haha! not forgetting the humurous and charming, man of the moment, JD, the gals are waiting for you. don’t let them down.

hip hip hooray to ESWC!!!

my very first blog…..i sorta promise myself to create my first blog ever before my "BIG DAY". so, here i am. i’m sorry guys if i’ve not been faithfully calling you after my exam. i’m currently broke coz dad’s cut down my daily expenses, including phone calls coz i’ve finally graduated!!! yay!!! no more exams!!! sadly, i’ll have to fend for myself now as daddy’s girl have to learn to grow up, independently.

these few days, i had been in daze, therefore, had no clear account of what exactly i did. anyway, got to know a bunch of really cool friends through my dear esther. so, hi to khaa mun (hope my spelling is right), suresh, malik and the rest of the crew! really glad to have known you guys!

and to my dear wei ming, thanks for the wonderful time at dinner yesterday. i really cherish you more, loving every bit of you each and everyday. thank you for generously showering me with your endless love.

til then, cheers folks!