September Updates

Well, nothing to start the weekend off with a bang... Should have noticed the depression on Friday night which eventually turned out to be quite a wild tropical storm. No one forecasted it and it just slammed into Philippines from midnight... headed straight to Vietnam.



1. Tropical Storm Ondoy - 20090926

Check out the satellite pictures of the hit-zone and travel path of the tropical storm (pic courtesy of Typhoon 2000)

Before (L - Clear bright skies with the buildings visible) and During the storm (R - with vicious and threatening clouds hovering on the mid section of the building)

Depression taking over in just a matter of hours.... the beginning of Ondoy!

2. Huawei Sportsfest 2009 -

And not long before, I was involved in the Sportsfest 09. Originally, we only participated in basketball but due to some fortunate turn of events, our loss in the basketball meant that our schedule was freed up and co-incidentally, the badminton team was lacking of players. So, Ric invited me to partner him and voila... before you know it, we were in the semis and the following day for finals, which we eventually won after rubber match. For me, it was totally rubbish from me but we still won it! muuahahaha... It was totally unexpected and of course, apart from the trophy below, we won some cash as well... it was bonus.

Now, because of that, I am nursing an injury to my arm for 2 weeks now, hahaha... courtesy of the championship win! ... but it was all worth it... nothing to worry about.. just a minor sprain. :-)

Championship trophy sitting pretty in the living room

3. Hari Raya 2009 Philippines -

Last week was the end of Ramadan and of course, even though far from home, we had our fair share of Rendang. We visited the Msian Ambassador's open house in Forbes Park, which is not far from Makati and truly feasted on all those sumptuous delicacies on offer... we had Mee Rebus, Daging Rendang, Dhal, etc. It was really good!

Picture (L) is the official plate for the Msian government while...Picture (R) is the balance of what was left after 15 minutes between 4 of us.

Unfortunately, Malaysians are Malaysians and I was actually expecting more than just the food. However, the reception was lukewarm (although it did not bother me that much). Apart from the initial greeting of 'Masuk Masuk...' and 'Makan makan'... I thought the government officials could have done something more with the 1Malaysia theme! But kudos to them for organizing these functions... at least it feels closer to home. :-)

4. Tagaytay 20090920

Well, it has been a long time ago since I last visited Tagaytay... not since those days when I was still the regional PM for South Luzon and it felt good revisiting the place again. Didnt dawned on me then that the place had anything special but this time around, I thought it was kinda nice. Probably because we had a motive this time. It was a good photoshoot for us... Some of the captured amateur shots below...

I just love the tranquility and the mist that surrounded that moment. Picture captured by Lai.

Sonja's Garden in Tagaytay. Mystifying yet charming. I am already planning a trip there. Its more of a relaxing retreat. For me, its also the photo ops.

...Also part of Sonja's Garden. The plentiful of flowers surrounding it makes nature seem more, pretty. I wouldnt recommend going there during summer though especially for those allergic to hay. :-)

A class above all as well, Taal Vista Hotel where we stayed. It is overlooking the smallest volcano in the world, the Taal Volcano.

Amongst the hundreds of shots taken at Tagaytay during a weekend trip with the group.

5. I am planning on a new toy... the perfect combination of a Canon EOS 5D Mark II Digital Camera (L- body only) and a Canon EF 28-300mm f/3.5-5.6L IS USM (R). Surveyed the price and it goes for a whopping (L - MYR 12,750) and (R - MYR9,750)... a combined total of MYR22,500!!

So, apart from the investments I was talking about previously, this will be right there at the top. any philantropist out there? heee heeee... there you go... my wish list! :-)

6. Ric has finally got his blog up and running. Let me welcome him here at http://rastading.blogspot.com/. A new edition from the Madagascar group! hahahaha...

7. This year, I have got more advanced birthday wishes than at any point of my entire life. The only thing I can deduce from this is that everyone is too busy that they might forget the real date when it happens, as it happens. But strange... an advanced birthday wish is somewhat... less of a reason than that of a belated birthday wish. Thats my point of view.

8. Another typhoon is slotted to make its way to Philippines making landfall on 1st October 2009... code named 'Pepeng' or 'Parma'

Prediction path tracker/ plotter for the TD (pic courtesy of Typhoon 2000)

9. Let's just hope it doesnt hit Manila again... OR ELSE... it will be a real disaster since not many have recovered from the tragedy last week. Based on the tracker above, hopefully, it will plough straight into Luzon!

Think that's all for now.... more laters. Ciaoooo!

Little Updates...

I know I promised and I tried… but every single time I end up in front of my PC, its either I am too lazy OR on freeze mode. Anyway, here’s some updates on my end:

1. I have announced it on FB, and I will officially announce in here. I am in a relationship. Here, I’d like to clarify, I did not announce it earlier NOT because I wanted it to be kept from public but I had to do it because in the Philippines, there has been so much interest in it that it became more of a gossip and rumor thingy than news. I didn’t want to ruin a beautiful thing. But yes, its official.

2. Yeay!! …. For the last 3 consecutive weeks, we have had 4 days of work every day due to holidays either on Friday or Monday. This coming is also a holiday because President Arroyo declared it as one to respect the wake of one of the church leaders. As what they say, Mabuhay Philippines (Welcome to Philippines)… it is one of the most holiday-rampant countries in SEA after Thailand.. still at the top of the charts.

3. I will be flying to Cebu on Monday to attend a kick off meeting with SMART.. one of the earliest and leading operators in Philippines. Another yeay… I haven’t been to Cebu so, this is a free visit there! Err.. thinking whether to stay the weekend or not since the beaches are very nearby.. tempting!

4. Have heard lately from Jerry and Jovi… glad you guys are ok. Was surprised actually to hear about Jerry’s submission… but you will always have my support. And vice versa, I think we are probably in the same boat given that scenario… so, I think we truly understand how and what each other is thinking. We will talk more on this later.

5. To all those whose birthday has come and gone by, I wish you all a very Happy Belated Birthday! The reason why I didn’t call is NOT because I forgot, but more to:

a) I know its your birthday but I don’t have your number or email
b) I don’t do FB birthday wishes… not twitter either (not into this yet… haven’t got the time)

Hence, I apologize for that and I wish you well, but I have not forgotten all of you… rest assured.

But today is my best friend's birthday: Mark and KG. Happy Birthday!

6. There have been some activities going on for me lately what with the Sports Fest that the Philippines Rep Office has organized. Kudos to that to keep all employees healthy (so that we don’t sue them for abuse of resources)… I have been coaxed to join into one or two. Ironically, the game I am most familiar with, Badminton, was the game that I ‘somewhat’ chose to leave out. Instead, I went for Basketball (Phils is so Americanize that the support for this game is huge) and also Marathon which I will be partaking in next weekend (if nothing goes wrong J). Of course I do my gym…. Threadmills and etc at my own space and time, but I thought it would be fun too trying to join in the teams. Nope, I haven’t scored any points yet… ya’ know… its really a tough game compared to what you see on tv.

7. I recently bought a new laptop! Yeay!! No, not the one I blogged about previous… that was the Lenovo Atom… now, after much deliberation, Ric and I bought the Toshiba Satellite M Series... ahhh... blisss... my new toy! ( see below)…

8. … and this… brings me to the 8th Update. Since Ric and I bought it, we have been hooked on it ever since. NO, not on the computer itself but the games that we can play! I mean, c’mon, it has been ages and ages since most of us OR for that matter, me, have had that chance to really virtually sweat it out with those games like Age of Empires, Mythology, C&C, etc. Hence, given this opportunity, at every single time slot we can find, we battle on “C&C3: Kane Edition: Tiberium Wars”. For me, it’s a rejuvenating session… not away from the project but to look at it out of the box. Basically, these are strategy games… and what more to virtually brainstorm your way into the enemy’s territory for maximum penetration? It helps shift your mind into another dimension that will help you look and do things differently. Bu, envy is a sweet thing. The best part about it is when we play network, we don’t have to create IPs for it because with this computer, it configures everything for you. Hence, all you need is the game, a LAN cable and a willing brother to sweat it out.

9. Work wise, I am working on 7 simultaneous projects. Difference between now and back then, I manage Project Managers as well as engineers. Since July 2009 when I was handed this position, I was elated but hesitated, nevertheless, jumped on it because I wanted more challenge as it was beginning to feel mundane. I guess this is called the ‘Tipping Point’… and to avoid that, there are things that need to be done which requires effort… and for me, jumping into this huge responsibility was one that I took to challenge myself and see where I will end up in. Some would have just lingered on and change jobs, but my theory is, what’s the difference? Changing jobs would mean new and additional efforts are needed, but doesn’t that speak volume for the current job we have… where we can start asking ourselves… are we motivated enough to put in some effort to make a change? If the answer is NO, then, there’s no point staying. But if your answer is lying on ‘sitting on the fence’, my two cents worth, don’t quit for the sake of quitting and changing jobs…. Take the initiative to try something new, change things around and see what is made out of it. My favorite quote from Sir Richard Branson… ‘Screw It.. Lets do it!”

10. Bought a new book by Malcom Gladwell… ‘Outliers’. Haven’t had time to read it yet… probably soon. This is one hell of a best seller after ‘Blink’ and ‘Tipping Point’.

11. This year, I have decided to invest heavily on a one off plan. I hope it takes off after a year of anticipation, discussion, drawing boards, and planning. I also have 3 major investment plans working up my sleeves in the next 5 years which to me, is tagged to point number 9. Its tough, …. Really really tough but what’s easy? Ambitions and plans are important.

12. Congratulations to my bro for having found something else which he has been waiting for such a long time and now, the opportunity has arise… I am sure you will do well Kev!

13. Recent new items which I have purchased but might not necessarily be part of what I have now… Ogawa, Mont Blanc, Tissot, Seiko, Toshiba. Next on list…. Mont Blanc, Panasonic, Dockers, Sony Ericcson. Well, I have a very structured way of shopping or so called ‘My Wish List’. I have learned this from being in the industry with those big telecom giants. Every quarter, they have a budget for whatever project to be rolled out, nothing more than that. If ever, the eventuality happens that it exceeds the budget and gets pushed through, there will be serious repercussions financially. Hence, I have worked mine out very delicately and the above prospect buys are still doable within the year. However, if anyone is kind enough… the ones in highlighted for the remainder of the year IS my WISH LIST. Hehehehehehhe…. I bet that is going to put everyone off! Hahahahaha…

14. Coming to the budgeting thing, I also have enough room for one more holiday trip for myself… international that is. For domestic holidays, I can still manage 5 more (that is if I have the time). J Hence, was planning on either Thailand or Vietnam. Osaka will be on next year’s list in April… I will try to make it happen because I have been wanting to go there since late 08 and early this year.

15. Basically, point number 9 sums up point number 1 and 5. Being busy is relatively another common and convenient term as an excuse. However, when one is truly submerge in the situation, you will know. That is why in the Philippines, even with the United Nations band of brothers here, namely, Ric, CC, Bu, Swan, Asela, VJ, Chee, we seldom really converse much during work time unless of course related although we work in the same company, but two different roof, 50m away. Point is, we don’t complain because we know how busy the other one is. Hence, I do apologize again to those I have left out recently if ever.

Hence, this pretty much sums up what I have been up to lately. Till then… ciao!

New Lease of Life

Life’s a bitch. Well, here’s a few updates so far since I have been busy with a lot of things lately.

1. I have been transferred from one customer to another. Supposedly a good thing. It is still a good thing. However, this account is too simple to handle because the revenue is so little. When they first transferred me, the project was on fire and there were issues, but since I came in, made some changes and with a magical wand in hand, the fire was doused. Now, when it seems calm enough to finally put on a smile, they come to me and say, you know, there could be some mistake placing you in this account because the revenue is too little, and that,…..does not justify putting you here as the Project Director. Oh yeah, great, saved a project from burning and now, they say I am literally too free! Puutaanng ina… really? Are they serious?

Well, its true in a way because the revenue gained from the 4 projects I am handling now is virtually nothing compared to one project I was handling before. I agree with this and now, I have to crack my brains to find something to do. They intend to give me another customer account to handle which I rejected. Reason being is simple, there should be only one PD for one customer account and one PD should not assume 2 accounts to avoid the confusion. This is still under negotiation. But it pisses me off because why didn’t they let me go to the other bigger accounts before transferring me?? They should have thought about it. Actually, the customer I am handling now is a big clientele and is one of the pioneers of telecoms in Philippines but so happen, for the next half year, there is not going to be many big things happening. Well, I’ll treat it as a short break at the moment. J

2. I haven’t uploaded completely the HK + Macau pictures since 2 months ago, and I have got lots more intended for uploading BUT, I wont be able to do it anymore until later next month because my computer has imposed a strict protocol on our internet access lately due to information security. So, all the pictures cannot be uploaded because my company banned the usage of USB. No file transfer.

3. Because of point number 2, I will be buying a new one. I am thinking of the toy below:

A new S12 Lenovo Netbook

4. I have finally landed one of my prized items… a new MB pen.

5. Been to Subic for the 3rd time and Boracay for the 2nd time and back! Next week to Zambales… Yippppeeee….

Thats all for now folks... ciao....

Long Hiatus

From the previous posting till now, hell has never been more evident as the 2nd quarter draws to a close. I apologize to all for the non activity in my account. Believe me, there are lots to be published including pictures but I will need time... probably in July. Just a little update here:

1. Been to Boracay and back... for the second time that is. Place is wonderful!

2. Gonna finish off with the current project soon and be transferred to another project in Philippines as well. It sucks big time having to leave the old team behind but a new challenge awaits me. I'd rather leave it to fate than play with politics.

3. My friend has flown to Nepal in search of his new life partner... arranged, that is. So, Good Luck!

4. I failed my targets for 2nd Quarter, and thats the reason why I am almost decapitated here (mentally) trying to do everything I possibly can.

5. I am finally trying to learn how to swim, by means of floating first :-) Its a big thing for me considering how I have aquaphobia (water phobia)

6. H1N1 is getting more serious in Manila and everyone is taking every bit of precaution to stay healthy. I am definitely one of them, been going to the gym lately to keep my immune system stronger.

7. Yeah, I am going to the gym now! Yeeehaaaar... its nice in my new place.

8. Which brings me to say, yes, I have finally shifted in to my new apartment just right opposite my old one. This is way better. :-) I love my apartment. Really trendy.

9. I am planning to go to Nepal in October to attend my friend's wedding. Those who are reading, lets plan for it, shall we? Good photops there.

I think that's about it for now folks... will update soon... after I have contained all the madness because as of now, its all hell break loose.

Day IV: Arrivo HK Island: Part V

After much fun in Macau, we headed back to HK Island and went straight to our destination in the cross section of Wanchai and Causeway Bay. Believe me, with all our luggages from the past 2 days, it was quite a hike all the way to the hotel and back. Fortunately enough, our hotel was comfortable to soothe our aches. Once rested, we headed straight to Lantau Island again and we were caught deciding between Disneyland HK or the famous Buddha statue. We chose the latter instead (Ngong Ping) after much deliberation because it was already quite late by the time we got out of the hotel (at about 3pm) and to pay the full price for the Park was not worth it.

Clockwise from top left: The cable cars, one of the route from the 35 minute ride from one corner to another corner, and finally, the cable station at Ngong Ping where a huge crowd had formed to board the car back to 'Tung Chung'.

Mind you, it was quite a walk to the foothill and summit as you can see from the pictures taken from the cable car station and at the foothill, where another flight of stairs awaits you (R)

The Buddha statue sitting calmly atop the hill amidst the sunset

Finally at the top, the abstract sunset view

Larger than Life, the famous statue that adorns the western side of HK

It was amazing to get up close and personal when before, it was only on the tele.

The entrance to the lotus shaped museum where Lord Buddha sits on

Some of the figurines surrounding the Buddha statue

And not far from the statue about 500m away, is the temple that faces the Buddha directly

Serene, tranquil and calm

By the time we left this place, it was already about 7pm, and by the time we got back to Causeway Bay, it was way past 930pm. The whole journey to and fro took almost 4 hours, so, anyone wanting to go, be prepared to walk like no one's business! However, it was worth every step.

Day III: Arrivo Macau: Part IV

Finally, after years of being fascinated by Macau, Ric and I was now en route there via HK. After spending almost two nights in TST, it was time for me to realize one of my preferred destinations.

The busy sea port at Kowloon for ferries going to Sichuan and Macau. There are a few of them in HK to various sea ports to China.

Finally, a picture of myself in my own blog. A rare sight. This was taken on the super ferry by Ric on the HK side

This was the view from the hotel room. It was located on a rather hilly area with loads of small houses, away from the casino area. Not far from where the hotel was is the St Paul Ruins, which was about a 10 minutes walk.

Some tranquil moments on cobbled alleys and the seemingly Portuguese influence on the architecture which has been a trademark here, which reminds me a lot of Malacca in Malaysia.

Lamp posts align the cobbled lanes in one of the many townhouses/ apartment units at the heart of Macau's main island.

Along the way from the hotel to St Paul's, it was hard not to notice the sights and tranquility that surrounds the city amidst its famous and glamorous casinos that can match Vegas, probably, second to it. Serenity is the nomenclature for the life and people surrounding this sleepy yet vibrant city with mysterious lanes. No wonder people call it the Little Venice of the East

... And not far beyond our brief walk is the majestic yet not so impressive St Paul Ruins. Only the face of the church remains with scattered remains of what seem to be quite a stronghold of the protestants in the past.

The main face of the architecturally sound church after decades of development at the heart of Macau.

....then a walk downwards to the city centre where all vibrancy takes place with tourists and locals jostling for a wee bit of room to manouver through the crowded streets

... And on the other side, the splendour of Macau reflecting on its past influences at its best, the Sino-Portuguese mix of culture and architecture

... and yet again, turn of alleys at every corner of unknown lanes brings you surprising sights and sounds which manages to slow down your pace and keeps you wondering, how did they do it?.... Notice the new Grand Lisboa Casino on the first picture on the left in the backdrop against the familiar old apartment units.

There was so much to cover yet with so little time, I had to really ensure that every smell and sense at the turn of every corner is captured. Thats the essence of travelling. In Macau, it was kinda simple. Intriguing in a way yet sublime at detailed. It was as though the place relived its history at every silent corner of the street.

Seen above are the mysteriously empty spaces located precariously between the thin fine lines of romanticism of the hey days to the splendour yet humble beginnings of the earliest settlement where the beauty of its creation left untouch and untold....

One of the older street names emblazoned in a plaque which can be seen all over Macau.

Soon after, we were back again at the hotel after an amazing mazely adventure through the streets of Macau's historical area. Tired and back breaking walks, we decided to push it further by proceeding to the more famous and latest destination that everyone is flocking to... The Venetian Macau Resort, which is located almost about 20-30 minutes by taxi. It was of course, as amazing as the pictures painted on the internet.

As we entered into the lobby of the Grand Venetian, I was almost charmed by the look alike Roman and Venetian figurines and decors as seen above. Even the hallway was enough to spell the grandeur that this place presents.

Of course, there was its attractions as well and pictured here is the Star Wars characters that appeared out of no where and I thought, hey, I'd be the Jedi for once!

Mimicking almost every corner of Venice, its interior is as good as the real deal itself... with shoplots built similar to the esthetics of the original architecture. Even the Palacio was there, similar to the one in St. Mark's Square

The grand entrance of 'The Venetian Hotels and Resorts' where the Venetian dream comes true. The minimum priced room was at MYR1000/nite... but this of course came with the luxury of its own. Ric and I was probably halfway through reserving one of its room before we found out that we were actually breaking the bank for a one night stay!

Its exterior was as good as its interior of vast football field sizes of casino halls, walkways and shopping complexes. It was huge! The brightly litted entrance was of course, breathless.

Being there was of course unforgettable, so many to take in yet, there was a feeling that it wasnt enough. I wished I had the time to be there the whole night long just to take in every second of its majestic recreation of Venice.

And without further ado, the main building, Palacio and Rialto Bridge, a simple and stunning design to remind us of engineering's greatest mimic of the Venice, brought to Macau, a truly splendid spectacle that will bring more to this place for many many years to come!

Well, it was way past 1am when we reached our hotel again, another late night venture (as for the days before in HK), but we were well satisfied of our trip here. Back to HK for the final night the following day!

Prawn Mee

Well, did a bit of an experiment over the weekend and voila... I managed myself a Prawn Mee. It wasnt that hard though... and I did in fact make 3 people happy... including myself. I was kinda surprised at the result.

Next up... Assam Laksa... now, that would be a bit more tricky... probably in 2 weeks time. Its the season to spice things up on the variants because I got a comment from a top chef to start changing the varieties even though everyone has so far been very welcoming to the weekly curry I have been dishing out including but not limited to ABC soup, Onion Omellete, Hainanese Chicken, Steamed Ocra, Herbal soup, Mixed Baked Beans, etc. Probably its time I started something new...

Day II: Arrivo HK: Part III

Yeah, we arrived and now, time for exploring the metro! MTRs everywhere meant that all we needed was just a travel card and it brought back memories of London Tube. I still remember those were the days when I started off grumbling at every single train ride I have to go on which I got used to years later.

The MTR map of HK. Pretty extensive I must say and I was impressed. At least it was better than KL travel.

First stop was at Wong Tai Sin, a temple somewhere near to Kowloon. Well, just a customary stop to ensure we have a smooth journey and adventure ahead.

Then of course, ppl were always on the move... it felt like millions of them moving at the same time. I mean, the pace here was so much more intense than KL or Philippines. People hurried along through time as though it was coming to an end. It wasnt like I am not used to it but it has been long ever since...

The big metro where all walks of life meet... before and after the red lights somewhere near to Ladies Street.

The night skyline of HK Island from Hotel Panorama. Notice the laser shows which happens daily from 8-9pm.

The night skyline of HK Island from the Avenue of Stars.

The famous junk traveling across the chanel towards HK Island

The sights and sounds of HK were one of the highlights of the trip. Neon lights flood the city scape and its one of the more litted up cities in the world. It was truly spectacular.

Day I: Arrivo HK: Part II

Arriving in HK was part of the many inter region travel plans I have for the next two years. Having worked in various regions in Asia, I intend to complete the tour of Asia. HK was the first port of call.

Having planned this trip a month before, it wasnt that difficult to imagine that there will be lots of walking and we were geared up for it. Took us almost 1 hour to travel from HKIA to the TST area where our hotel was. You know what, it was so convenient that we were fairly surprised. The transportation mode in and around HK was so efficient. Anyway, for those planning a trip to HK, there are buses plying the hotel routes and its free of charge. The services offered were available at the airport, and also at the Kowloon station. We took the bus from Kowloon station to the nearest situated hotel.

Checked in and as noted in the previous post, the hotel (Hotel Panorama) was great. Then, time for supper. Here comes the interesting part, being strangers in a foreign land, there wasnt any mamak stalls etc and we had to just do as the Romans do.

First stop: Wah Kee Snacks Shop. Looked more like the 'lok-lok' in Malaysia. We thought, hey, great snack at a cheap price.

Notice the fish balls, sio mai's, squid and the various items on display. It was mouth watering to say the least, what more with our stomachs yelling out for mercy.

And so, without even checking out the price on the sign board on top which we had no idea what was being written anyway, we proceeded with our order.

2 sticks of meatballs smothered with satay sauce, and various additionals being thrown in to fill the poly box, we thought... 'yum yum' and we gobbled them up within 5 minutes.

Now, time to pay. To our horror,....this box of 'fish ball' supper cost us HKD 42... which was equivalent to MYR21 OR PHP 273... for a few fish freaking balls.....!!!! Now, that is what I call, exorbitant!

Both Ric and I were gobsmacked and wide eyed, ....hurried along the way quietly... and started to wonder, first day, first rude shock (I mean, we knew it was gonna be expensive in HK but this was..... errrr... unexplainable)....

Holy Week Adventure: Hong Kong: Part I

Well oh well, it has been a long awaited trip and I must say, it went pretty well. This will be the first part of my HK adventure... well, not really an adventure when you see the luxury that both Ric and I invested in. All in all, we spent about MYR6k+ for a 4D/5N trip.

Hotel Panorama, Tsim Tsa Tsui

The first two nights were spent in Tsim Tsa Tsui at Hotel Panorama. I must say, quite impressed with the hotel and its location. I mean, we selected the location precisely to the coordinates located on Google Earth but we didnt think we'll land right in the middle of all classed entertainment area. It was good.. what with the rooms tagged at MYR400 per nite. The hotel staff were all very professional and helpful.

The hotel rooms were averagely sized, but the view from 17th Floor was great... overlooking HK Island and it was all luxuriously furnished. Check out the bath robes, closet, etc below.

Royal Hotel Macau, Macau

Anyway, we went to Macau on the third day and it was astonishing. Again, we lavishedly splurred on Royal Hotel Macau. At about MYR700 per nite, it wasnt surprising. The hotel rooms here are in these price range and the highest could go up to about MYR2500 per nite (Venetian Casino and Resort). However, one should take note that this hotel is located in a not-quite-so-lavish area. Surrounding it were slums. The hotel staffs were extremely friendly and hey, they all spoke Tagalog, welcome to the land of Pinoys again!

The view below from the hotel room at the 15th Floor amidst the slums surrounding it.

The room itself which I shared with Ric, all complete with broadband, embedded plasma TV, lavish bathrobes and branded toiletries. The bathroom was excellent.

South Pacific Hotel, Causeway Bay, HK Island

Duly, on the final night, we were in HK Island where we spent most of the time in Causeway Bay (the famous Tung Sing area) and Wan Chai. We checked into the South Pacific Hotel and my oh my, it was luxurious. We were quickly ushered to the executive floor not knowing that we actually booked into the executive rooms! Duh!! The bell boys and concierge helpers were magnificient and very polite though, unlike what we have read before about Hongkies being all rude and nasty.

No wonder the rooms cost about MYR 400 per nite!

The lobby of the hotel, although small, was impressive based on HK standards.

A living room, 2 televisions (one in room and another in the living room), an equipped mini bar, lavish bath robes (again???), and a bath tub which was soothing! The first dip into cool waters and I did that for half and hour!

Summary

All in all, each person spent about MYR1000 on a 4 night stay which averages out to MYR250 per nite, which I would say, is above average on Msian standards but having said that, we were travelers and knowing so, we werent exactly spending our entire day in the rooms amidst the luxury accorded. Verdict was, we almost but certainly overdid it on the hotel rooms. The advantage was, it was cool that we came back almost every night feeling sore all over and thank God, we had really comfortable nights to pamper ourselves with! (Probably just trying to justify our spending there...) hmmphhh....

Confessions of Singlehood...

My colleagues and I had a deep discussion the other day and I couldn’t help but dwell more into it. There was I, looking at them, transforming their lives into an identifiable entity…


1. B is getting married soon and he doesn’t even know who or understand how its going to take place, where, and when but he know he is. He is excited to say the least and is undergoing a self development mindset change that could spell the end of singlehood. The self mold is one that I envy and a wishful thinking that possibly, I could be in his shoes one day.

2. A is pronouncing their engagement very soon, been in a courtship for a long time. He seems contented and is very much looking forward to it. Strong and responsible.

3. C is married with a kid and his change has been imminent, and quite obvious from last year. More self proclaimed in a subtle way, less of an animal, more responsible.

4. S is also about to get married, already been in courtship for a long time. Subtle, profound and has his own dwellings that spells steadiness.

5. JL is more or less still the same person I know and is enjoying his youthfulness. Quite possibly in my shoes now... or maybe not...

6. JV is also one of the more emphatic colleagues that spells Casanova. Still enjoying his time although he is married.

7. AMY is one cool dude. Not married, still with miles of youthfulness ahead of him and is surely and definitely enjoying his singlehood.



I looked at the trend… and I reflected it upon my years since post-805. It has been quite a journey I must admit. I am standing here now with at least 59% of my roadmap covered, sealed and achieved. I am still aiming for the remaining part of my 5-year-plan. However, I couldn’t help but reevaluate myself if I am headed towards the right direction.

A part of me remains a mystery even to myself. I am caught and split between an engagement into my readiness to commit to a relationship. It has become quite a taboo to me. It’s readily available to me, but I retreat into a more comfortable singlehood. Probably afraid to commit, probably scarred, probably don’t wanna end up justifying endlessness. Yes, its me NOW and I wish I can change for the better like how my brothers above are… but I hibernate when confronted into this subject matter. I go into hiatus. Even my parents are querying me on this. But I hate to see all that I have earned post 805 to go away like this. Will it go away? Probably not. Hence, why? ...

Inside me, deep down I believe there’s a hint of space left for ‘the other half’… there is, however, there is a great deal for me to work on it and I just don’t have the time to do it. Me, being away and far off my original continent, wants to believe, but the odds are there. I once had an inkling that 2009 will be my target year to achieve ‘partnerships’ or ‘marriage’ but that failed recently.


Thus, at the moment, I come to a conclusion that, nope, this is not the year to be. Why? Because here are 9 good reasons:

1. I still cant switch off my phone after work, never mind going to sleep and having 3 cells by my bed side

2. I cannot commit to a weekend at a pretty resort, even for 2 days without thinking about work, never mind getting 20 sms-es regarding work on silent mode watching a 2 hour movie.

3. I cannot imagine having someone calling me every night to talk about love and what not, never mind imagining having someone to sleep beside me. (I love my bedtime even with the empty space beside)

4. I am barely up to my neck trying to solve my own issues (..and thereof whoever is under me…), never mind trying to ponder about other issues on love.

5. I still have a traveler’s mindset and heart,… alone that is. I don’t rule out romantic travels in the future (… which I have been through…)

6. I still love the privilege of having options (in finances most of all… time and responsibility on the top three). I know some in the above list do not.

7. I believe I am not fit yet to care for someone, when I can barely hold on to my emotions at work… at times. Attached and married people have that extra inch of patience to withstand this.

8. I believe I need to get back in shape in 2009. I have seriously went overboard and I am still trying to convince myself that its time for me to cut the pounds, never mind being nagged to do so.

9. I believe I need to be financially stronger to venture by myself (for survival purposes). Resource is a not a problem now, but I hope I can improve on the one strength that I have now… to be sure.


I could be evasive and selfish and whatever they might call it (some have truly commented on this especially those I have politely refused), but I don’t mean harm and my intentions are well beyond what I can do at the moment. I hope everyone understands… most importantly, with this, I have answered some questions that my heart yearns.

Earth Hour... Or Revelation?

It has been a while since a science fiction thriller really sent a surreal feeling of apocalypse… with an agenda. What transpired over the next 2 hours of the movie somewhat had me intrigued rather than jumping off my seat over ’12 Rounds’. There were no bullets flying around, no explosions but yet, had me glued to the seat finding it hard to believe that the more the story went on, the more it felt like a revelation of sorts. The essence is not just the apocalypse and the voodoo of having a pre-empt scientific premonition but more of a look into our religious beliefs.

Ezekiel Wheel? Tree of Life? Doesn’t that sound more like a religious item? In fact, my interpretation of it was, the revelation of our belief in God. That being Cage’s dad a pastor, and Cage being a science professor with MIT that chooses to believe in the theory of determination and what not as a case of random occurrences instead of life as a being or faith. Also, the ‘whispering people’…. There were so many parts in the thriller that points out to one thing and one thing that all religions professes in, ‘Pray’ and start believing. The fact that Cage wasn’t the ‘Chosen’ one towards the end of the story and how his tears denoted another revelation where he began to understand how and why he wasn’t the chosen one being a non believer simply denotes one thing, the end of the world isn’t too far away and if you haven’t heard yet (part thereof from the whispering people) or prayed lately, we better start doing so and hope that at the end of the day on Judgment Day, we can be forgiven for not doing it in the first place. Sounds complicated? … I think not.

Apart from it being a science fiction (so-called), I think it also serves us with a surreal but defined message that no matter where we go, family is where it all begins and ends, and given the current climate situation on Earth, the ‘Solar Flare’ or any other apocalypse (next movie coming up in ‘Super Typhoon’), some day, it will happen and if we don’t take drastic steps to change the way we consume mother nature’s wealth, we will end up killing it. The release of the movie was also coincidentally tied up with the on going Earth Hour events all around the world.

On the whole, the movie was an entertaining chapter to conclude my busy week, to ponder again, believing that God have reasons for everything that happens... or are they just a series of pre-determined sequences synchronized as a cause to scientific theories?....

On a lighter note, below here were pictures of KL, before and after EH60 started *Courtesy of TheStar.

Notice how KL went 'dark' for one hour.

Would anyone dare to imagine what if really, the government supports it to the extend of shutting down all the substations and major grids, making it compulsory to go 'dark', what if that happens... can anyone imagine what will happen within that hour?

What chaos one hour can carry to Kuala Lumpur...

Back to Back Wins...

Back to Back wins for Liverpool... what can I say? 13 goals in 3 weeks... 4-0 against Real Madrid, 4-1 against Manchester Utd and now 5-0 against Aston Villa... what's next? Bring on Fulham of course!!!

Well, thank God for Liverpool to keep the fire and passion burning... work has just been horrendous... with month end rush, political bickerings, mind games, etc, I am almost as good as drained out. With a new project looming and a very packed schedule for the next few weeks, I am really looking forward to pamper thyself to a trip in Hong Kong. Recently booked into 'The Venetian' for a closer taste into the high life... finally answering the question,... if a 5-star hotel is good, what constitutes a 6 1/2 star to begin with? Hence, I am going to answer that question this coming holiday. At a price of MYR1000/nite, I will give it a go!

With all the stress that is going on, I cant wait to be honest! Just need to get myself prepped up for now to ensure my targets are achieved! Before I sign off to cont with my work, here's something for BT, You, YES You, if you are looking, piss off and find someone of your stature to mess with, you old freaking geezer! All you talk and no logical bas3rds, go pack that shit and get on with your pathetic life! You dont deserve this blog but I will give it to you this time... have a blast you pathetic one and we'll see how you succumb to my success, ass crap!

AaaaAAaaHHhh... what a blast! Now, I feel better... now now, that's what the blog is for! :-)

Magical Night!

Man Utd 1 - 4 Liverpool

A scoreline that undermines the intensity of the pre match hype. For all that has been said, yesterday night was somewhat magical and truly sums up Liverpool’s season for me. Even if they are unable to get the title this season (where chances are slim…), I stand proud amongst all together with Kopites around the world.

The two heroes and most published faces on the internet and football world... *pic courtesy of Soccernet and Liverpool FC.tv

A scoreline that undermines the intensity of the pre match hype. For all that has been said, yesterday night was somewhat magical and truly sums up Liverpool’s season for me. Even if they are unable to get the title this season (where chances are slim…), I stand proud amongst all together with Kopites around the world.

For every goal that was scored, my phone line was inundated with text messages and phone calls. Little did I even realize the 4th nail was hammered onto Man Utd until the whole place erupted at Howzat (English pub in Makati)! By this time, I had little voice to embarrass myself (although I did a good job in dancing my way around MU supporters sitted nearby – fellow colleagues that is). Truly a memorable night. I suddenly found myself lost into the realms of Anfield… I started belting out Liverpool’s chorus chants, YNWA, etc (which on normal days and in sober mode, I wouldn’t). I believe my actions were kinda restrained and had it not for the Mancunians staying quiet after their first goal, I would have given them an ever harder time! I cannot sum up more other than, Great Night, and at OT, makes it even sweeter!

Rivalry between this two clubs dates back to the stone ages (literally) and no one can doubt that! I came back at about 2am after some more partying to the great night and logging on to the internet was even pleasing. Headline flashing across all webpages including Soccernet, Liverpool’s webbie, newspapers, dailies and even FB!!! …. ‘Stunning Liverpool Runs Riot’, ‘Rafa hails Reds Display’, etc.

The other time as far as I can recall being in the same similar jubilant mood was the match against Newcastle (4-3) and also the comback CL Final, Istanbul, in 2005.

But kudos to Gerrard and Torres... clinical finishing, great partnership, sublime performances all round. It's the GT Partnership... YNWA... and given the latest stats, Anfield is truly a Fortress. The table above shows how Anfield is being restored to its glory again...

Of Fine Wines and Champagnes...

And so, we were at it again.... more champagnes and wine instead of beers... another big one bites the dust...

The super large champagne bottle on the table...

...and before.... the MOETs we popped....

Penfolds in line.....

Fine champagnes and wines, fine dining... recession? What recession?.... by the way, think this time, my days are numbered in the Philippines. I just received a call from my former boss requesting me to firefight in Cambodia... and I have just rejected his offer.

We'll wait and see what prevails later...