Sunday, November 20, 2011
Saturday, October 22, 2011
Mind Games
Left or right,
Up or down.
It is not about what's right or what's wrong.
We are neither good nor bad.
Once in a while,
It's the best it's ever done.
But mostly,
It renders us stupid.
What makes us who we are,
Is defined by what we do,
After the stupidity has been done...
Monday, October 17, 2011
Jay Chou's new album Exclamation Mark, fight over to listen to new song Shadow Puppetry
Jay Chou's new album Exclamation Mark, fight over to listen to new song Shadow Puppetry
CAN'T WAIT FOR THE NEW ALBUM! TIME TO STALK HMV FOR THE PRE-ORDER!
CAN'T WAIT FOR THE NEW ALBUM! TIME TO STALK HMV FOR THE PRE-ORDER!
CHECK THIS OUT! TIGER JUMPS ONTO AN ELEPHANT AND ATTACKS A MAN!
CHECK THIS VIDEO OUT! Yes I know it was viral back in 2004 but still.
CHECK OUT THE TIGER LEAPING ONTO AN ELEPHANT AND ATTACKING A MAN!
The rangers in India were trying to tranquilize the Tigress (Female Tiger) as it was too near a village. Instead, the Tigress got so worked up it came out of nowhere and leaped onto an adult elephant and attacked one of the rangers. He survived with some cuts. But look at that JUMP! Damn!
That tigress got away but was never to be seen again.
Sunday, October 16, 2011
Talk. Listen.
Talk when you need to talk.
Listen when you need to listen.
There is no talking and listening when you are talking and listening at the same time.
There is no fault.
Nor is there a right or wrong.
It is a choice.
You choose to listen what you think what the world must be saying.
You choose to believe what you have heard.
You choose to think what you heard is what you know and what it must be.
And then you talk and talk and talk and talk.
You truly have not listened.
We can all talk the talk, but only few can walk the walk.
Listening is a skill done with your heart and not just your ears.
So make the right choice.
Find the right balance.
Or you will find that one day it is too late.
When you realize your friends are not longer your friends not because of what they have done.
But because what you have failed to do.
Visited: RED LANTERN @ FULLTERTON BAY HOTEL, SINGAPORE
On Friday, I finally tried out a new "watering" hole outside my usual haunts of Sara's, Zouk or Princep Street. Went to 'Red Lantern' at Fullerton Bay Hotel for the first time with my friend Vivian.
After a literal 5 minute walk from the hotel entrance to the lift lobby that brings us up to the rooftop of the short, boutique hotel that is Fullerton Bay, the first thought upon exiting the lift: "Fuck, should have withdrawn money"!
A swimming pool, MBS in the background somewhere, black and white feel... You know you are in the right place if you want to relax on a Friday night. It didn't look pack when we reached at 10pm (reservation-less) and that was a mistake. All tables were full in this cosy little night spot. We were offered standing by the bar, no objections given since promises of tables were assured if one was available.
We did eventually got a cushion-bed-sofa-chair or whatever it is by the Singapore River overlooking MBS, the LV Island and Avalon. I must admit, it was a pretty comfortable feeling. Definitely a great place to chill out (especially on a Friday), knock back some beers and just relax with friends. And its an even better place for sadist out there who wish to "show-off" they can enjoy the night drinking whilst those still stuck in the office which surrounded and overlooked 'Red Lantern' enjoy the jealousy of not being able to enjoy the "TGIF" moment. Plus, the place is rather breezy and not hot or stuffy and I know this because I was wearing my thick, black Zara jacket that night and I wasn't feeling the heat.
As expected, the drinks were pricey but reasonable. By reasonable I am comparing to higher-end places. It is also a great place to catch the laser show from MBS. The service staffs are excellent and attentive. They could do better with their signature drinks but no complains. Best to call-in and reserve seats. If there is really one complain, it's that their toilets are DAMN COLD. For some reason, the air-con in the toilet makes you feel like you have momentarily stepped into some winter wonderland.
OKAY OKAY, confession time....
CONFESSION #1. Viv and I ordered a total of 4 drinks (2 Heineken's and 2 cocktails). However they only billed us 1 Heineken and 1 cocktail. We DID ask about it but apparently the staff claimed the bill was settled. Fine by me. Saved us $30 at least.
CONFESSION #2. I parked via the valet services at Fullerton Bay Hotel and I only realized the valet charges AFTER 1 hour. Apparently charges are as follows: $12 for the first hour. $5 for the subsequent hours. FUCKING expensive but it is after all, hotel valet charges. 2nd great "deal" of the night came when I picked up my car, after 3 hours of parking, I was only charged the 1st hour of $12. Hell saves me another $10.
Great night of lucky deals. Not going to complain much since these kinds of situations do NOT happen very often. Take it when the opportunity rises huh. Anyways, overall Red Lantern is a great little spot to go if you want to relax, find some peace, unwind with friends or partners. It's quiet, cosy and gives off a touch of "Entourage-esque".
After a literal 5 minute walk from the hotel entrance to the lift lobby that brings us up to the rooftop of the short, boutique hotel that is Fullerton Bay, the first thought upon exiting the lift: "Fuck, should have withdrawn money"!
A swimming pool, MBS in the background somewhere, black and white feel... You know you are in the right place if you want to relax on a Friday night. It didn't look pack when we reached at 10pm (reservation-less) and that was a mistake. All tables were full in this cosy little night spot. We were offered standing by the bar, no objections given since promises of tables were assured if one was available.
We did eventually got a cushion-bed-sofa-chair or whatever it is by the Singapore River overlooking MBS, the LV Island and Avalon. I must admit, it was a pretty comfortable feeling. Definitely a great place to chill out (especially on a Friday), knock back some beers and just relax with friends. And its an even better place for sadist out there who wish to "show-off" they can enjoy the night drinking whilst those still stuck in the office which surrounded and overlooked 'Red Lantern' enjoy the jealousy of not being able to enjoy the "TGIF" moment. Plus, the place is rather breezy and not hot or stuffy and I know this because I was wearing my thick, black Zara jacket that night and I wasn't feeling the heat.
As expected, the drinks were pricey but reasonable. By reasonable I am comparing to higher-end places. It is also a great place to catch the laser show from MBS. The service staffs are excellent and attentive. They could do better with their signature drinks but no complains. Best to call-in and reserve seats. If there is really one complain, it's that their toilets are DAMN COLD. For some reason, the air-con in the toilet makes you feel like you have momentarily stepped into some winter wonderland.
OKAY OKAY, confession time....
CONFESSION #1. Viv and I ordered a total of 4 drinks (2 Heineken's and 2 cocktails). However they only billed us 1 Heineken and 1 cocktail. We DID ask about it but apparently the staff claimed the bill was settled. Fine by me. Saved us $30 at least.
CONFESSION #2. I parked via the valet services at Fullerton Bay Hotel and I only realized the valet charges AFTER 1 hour. Apparently charges are as follows: $12 for the first hour. $5 for the subsequent hours. FUCKING expensive but it is after all, hotel valet charges. 2nd great "deal" of the night came when I picked up my car, after 3 hours of parking, I was only charged the 1st hour of $12. Hell saves me another $10.
Great night of lucky deals. Not going to complain much since these kinds of situations do NOT happen very often. Take it when the opportunity rises huh. Anyways, overall Red Lantern is a great little spot to go if you want to relax, find some peace, unwind with friends or partners. It's quiet, cosy and gives off a touch of "Entourage-esque".
Saturday, October 15, 2011
Wednesday, October 12, 2011
Mojo Progress
So far so good, been putting way more effort in finding back my "Mojo"...
Just finished the morning training. Finally after months of not running, last week I kick-started (in addition to training for the Standard Chartered Marathon 2011) my own training again. Last week 6km in 49 minutes. This morning was much better in terms of time, but slightly shorter distance. Thanks to my newly downloaded "Endomondo" app on my BB, recorded a 5.27km run in 29 minutes.
Well, feels good to run a little faster this time round. But I know the best is yet to come. Guess the SCMS 2011 came at the right time. Gonna run the 21km so I need to get back in shape fast. PLUS, ZoukOut 2011 is just around the corner too, HEH!
Still getting used to not eating as much as I used to, including cutting down all that meaty, fatty parts. Thinking about it makes my mouth dripping with temptations. Toa Payoh has too much good food then temptations are really never-ending.
I have also started re-building my tennis game again. Lost it somewhere along the way.
There are 2 problems still. First, BECAUSE it is the exam study break, unfortunately when studying my M.Menthol intake has also slightly increased. The other NEW problem, though I wouldn't exactly say it's new... About 2 months ago, whilst playing tennis (I believe was during the SIM Tennis Team final round of trials), I picked up some sort of a shoulder injury. My right side seem to have some sort of strain or ache. I never seek consultation because I rarely do, I always let my bruises, sprains heal themselves. But over the course of the 2 months, it still remains sore, though the soreness is not felt on a daily basis, whenever I lift the right arm over my head, I can feel the strain. Hopefully it really is nothing serious.
Yes, this may bore the shit out of some of you, but this is my blog. Repeat: MY blog. I don't care if you do read it, I don't care if you don't read it. I couldn't care less anymore. But all these, it is important to me. We all have our "Mojo", that part of us that makes us who we really are. It defines us. I lost it along the ways and throughout the years, made a lot of half-fuck effort in getting it back. Well, as I previously mentioned... wake up call.
Just finished the morning training. Finally after months of not running, last week I kick-started (in addition to training for the Standard Chartered Marathon 2011) my own training again. Last week 6km in 49 minutes. This morning was much better in terms of time, but slightly shorter distance. Thanks to my newly downloaded "Endomondo" app on my BB, recorded a 5.27km run in 29 minutes.
Well, feels good to run a little faster this time round. But I know the best is yet to come. Guess the SCMS 2011 came at the right time. Gonna run the 21km so I need to get back in shape fast. PLUS, ZoukOut 2011 is just around the corner too, HEH!
Still getting used to not eating as much as I used to, including cutting down all that meaty, fatty parts. Thinking about it makes my mouth dripping with temptations. Toa Payoh has too much good food then temptations are really never-ending.
I have also started re-building my tennis game again. Lost it somewhere along the way.
There are 2 problems still. First, BECAUSE it is the exam study break, unfortunately when studying my M.Menthol intake has also slightly increased. The other NEW problem, though I wouldn't exactly say it's new... About 2 months ago, whilst playing tennis (I believe was during the SIM Tennis Team final round of trials), I picked up some sort of a shoulder injury. My right side seem to have some sort of strain or ache. I never seek consultation because I rarely do, I always let my bruises, sprains heal themselves. But over the course of the 2 months, it still remains sore, though the soreness is not felt on a daily basis, whenever I lift the right arm over my head, I can feel the strain. Hopefully it really is nothing serious.
Yes, this may bore the shit out of some of you, but this is my blog. Repeat: MY blog. I don't care if you do read it, I don't care if you don't read it. I couldn't care less anymore. But all these, it is important to me. We all have our "Mojo", that part of us that makes us who we really are. It defines us. I lost it along the ways and throughout the years, made a lot of half-fuck effort in getting it back. Well, as I previously mentioned... wake up call.
I am bringing my MOJO back!
Have You Seen My Mojo?
“You have to have confidence in your ability, and then be tough enough to follow through.”It seems that now 7 October has taken on a 2nd significance, which was brought upon by the 1st. I gave myself a serious wake up call that night. I have had enough of the half-hearted effort of bouncing back from my past. This time round, I am for real. I am going to bring myself back to a time 8 years ago when J was still very much alive. Time to bring back my mojo of 8 years ago.
Rosalynn Carter
While over the years I have somewhat brought the "mojo" back, I was still a shadow of my former self. I have brought back some of the confidence and some of the optimism and perceptiveness, I still allowed myself to occasionally fall into a valley of self-pity.
This time round, there is no more half-fuck effort.
Sunday, October 9, 2011
Step Up 3
Yes I know, this STEP UP 3 movie was released back in August of 2010 and I missed it. Well better late than never! Finally caught the movie (of course it wasn't 3D) on Star Movies last night (THANK GOD FOR CABLE!) and wow... sorry I meant WOW!
I love the energy, the movement, the flow (I am talking about the dance flow) throughout the movie. It is electrifying. I don't usually say that about movies. Who cares about the damn plot or the damn acting skills, its a movie about dance. And the love FOR dance.
I love to dance. Although I can't dance to save my own soul. I still love to. Dancing takes you to another world, takes you to a different place. It's so magical. Its like the perfect escape. I respect dancers, it isn't easy. I love dancers. Hell, the ladies who dance in their stilletoes and make it look so damn good, they are hot. I don't know, dancing just gives this sense of freedom, freedom of expression that is so hot and sexy and electrifying.
There IS an underlying lesson to this movie, rather my own underlying lesson. I admire people who chase their dreams... their real dreams. There just aren't many of us out there who have the courage to do so.
Do YOU know what you really want out of your life?
I love the energy, the movement, the flow (I am talking about the dance flow) throughout the movie. It is electrifying. I don't usually say that about movies. Who cares about the damn plot or the damn acting skills, its a movie about dance. And the love FOR dance.
I love to dance. Although I can't dance to save my own soul. I still love to. Dancing takes you to another world, takes you to a different place. It's so magical. Its like the perfect escape. I respect dancers, it isn't easy. I love dancers. Hell, the ladies who dance in their stilletoes and make it look so damn good, they are hot. I don't know, dancing just gives this sense of freedom, freedom of expression that is so hot and sexy and electrifying.
There IS an underlying lesson to this movie, rather my own underlying lesson. I admire people who chase their dreams... their real dreams. There just aren't many of us out there who have the courage to do so.
Do YOU know what you really want out of your life?
The official trailer of Step Up 3 (Movie)
The final battle against Samurai's. CAN YOU FEEL IT?!
This is admittingly my other favorite part of the movie. Sorry, I am a crazy romantic. I love these moments. It's special. I mean if you have experienced it before you know exactly what I mean.
NOW THIS... was probably my favorite part of the movie. Liked it more that the Final Battle. I love the 2nd battle against Gwai.
*Time to buy the DVD!
My Place
This is MY place to rant. I don't care if nobody reads it. I don't care what you think about it. It is my place to let it all loose.
Sick and Tired
Friends once told me that I am so lucky, I am like a multi-plug and I can adapt to any group of friends and be on good terms with everyone. Someone even once mentioned that they are envious I have plenty of good friends. I use to take it as a compliment. Now, I am not so sure.
I am just so sick and tired of all the drama and all the likes and all the dislikes and backstabbing. I don't see how people can call others their friends when they can't accept them for the good and the bad. I am not talking about acquaintances, or hi-bye kind of friends... I am talking about genuine friends.
It just gets so damn tiring to hear constant complaining about the same old things over and over and over again among people who are supposed to be friends. Just get a move on it already. But I think what's worst, or perhaps what I am most sick and tired about is I don't expect a lot from friendship and yet everyone else seems to expect something from me.
I don't care if you are a guy or a girl, if you are my friend, I will go all out for you. I am that kind of friend. And I don't expect anything in return because that's how it is suppose to work. How can you call others your friend if you expect something in return. I can forgive. I can forget. I like to do things on my own terms, at my own time. I will say something when I feel the time is right.
Perhaps the final straw to all these sick and tiredness came last night. Every year during this time, my thoughts and my actions get very distracted because it is after all my best friend's anniversary of his passing. I think I can be forgiven for not being myself or being a good friend during this time because I am very distracted by events which took place 7 years ago. So you can imagine how irritated and how pissed I got just because I didn't mention something for once.
The actual story goes something like this. A friend wants to introduce someone to me and I only saw her for 15 mins 2 days ago and from my rear mirror of my car because I gave her a lift home. We barely shared 5 sentences of conversation and yes I thought she was really eye-catching but didn't give it much thought because well, distracted. I didn't mention to anyone the full story or what I thought because it wasn't the right time. I just casually mentioned there MAY be a girl who I MAY be interested in but I don't have her number I don't have her FB, etc. So when that accidentally got slipped out, I never thought a friend would actually compare me to another of her friends just because I didn't mention something that is nothing at all. She compared me to her "friend" who only makes use of her and is totally fucked up. I can't believe I got compared to a fucked up person. Seriouisly. JUST because I didn't mention something that is actually about nothing.
I mean come on, you have got to be kidding right? So that's what I am in your eyes. Just because I didn't mention something when it's nothing at all and suddenly I am a fucked up friend.
You know what, that was probably the final straw. I am sick and tired of listening to all the bullshit, all the gossips, all the backstabbings amongst friends. And I am talking about MANY groups of friends here. I am done. I am done being a good friend to everyone. Really. I have just had about enough. I am really tired of all the drama's.
I am just so sick and tired of all the drama and all the likes and all the dislikes and backstabbing. I don't see how people can call others their friends when they can't accept them for the good and the bad. I am not talking about acquaintances, or hi-bye kind of friends... I am talking about genuine friends.
It just gets so damn tiring to hear constant complaining about the same old things over and over and over again among people who are supposed to be friends. Just get a move on it already. But I think what's worst, or perhaps what I am most sick and tired about is I don't expect a lot from friendship and yet everyone else seems to expect something from me.
I don't care if you are a guy or a girl, if you are my friend, I will go all out for you. I am that kind of friend. And I don't expect anything in return because that's how it is suppose to work. How can you call others your friend if you expect something in return. I can forgive. I can forget. I like to do things on my own terms, at my own time. I will say something when I feel the time is right.
Perhaps the final straw to all these sick and tiredness came last night. Every year during this time, my thoughts and my actions get very distracted because it is after all my best friend's anniversary of his passing. I think I can be forgiven for not being myself or being a good friend during this time because I am very distracted by events which took place 7 years ago. So you can imagine how irritated and how pissed I got just because I didn't mention something for once.
The actual story goes something like this. A friend wants to introduce someone to me and I only saw her for 15 mins 2 days ago and from my rear mirror of my car because I gave her a lift home. We barely shared 5 sentences of conversation and yes I thought she was really eye-catching but didn't give it much thought because well, distracted. I didn't mention to anyone the full story or what I thought because it wasn't the right time. I just casually mentioned there MAY be a girl who I MAY be interested in but I don't have her number I don't have her FB, etc. So when that accidentally got slipped out, I never thought a friend would actually compare me to another of her friends just because I didn't mention something that is nothing at all. She compared me to her "friend" who only makes use of her and is totally fucked up. I can't believe I got compared to a fucked up person. Seriouisly. JUST because I didn't mention something that is actually about nothing.
I mean come on, you have got to be kidding right? So that's what I am in your eyes. Just because I didn't mention something when it's nothing at all and suddenly I am a fucked up friend.
You know what, that was probably the final straw. I am sick and tired of listening to all the bullshit, all the gossips, all the backstabbings amongst friends. And I am talking about MANY groups of friends here. I am done. I am done being a good friend to everyone. Really. I have just had about enough. I am really tired of all the drama's.
Friday, October 7, 2011
7th Anniversary: Hit and Run
It's 2.30am, exactly 7 years ago today.
To the driver who knocked him down 7 years ago, who never stopped and called for help. Who just drove off and left him there to die. Whoever you are, I really wonder how do you live with yourself all these years. You WILL get what you deserve.
To the driver who knocked him down 7 years ago, who never stopped and called for help. Who just drove off and left him there to die. Whoever you are, I really wonder how do you live with yourself all these years. You WILL get what you deserve.
IN EVERY STEP, IN EVERY MOMENT. IN EVERY DAY. I MISS YOU, MY BROTHER!
It's been a long while since I last updated the blog, and what better day then to (re)start doing so. What better day... Ironically, this better day is probably my most messed up day.
I came across this particular quote on the net, "If tears could build a stairway, and memories a lane, I'd walk right up to Heaven and bring you home again..."
They say in time, the loss of someone will get easier. But they didn't say how long it will take. It has been 7 years... 7 long years. Yet with every passing year, the pain never seems to heal. With every passing year, the grief sticks on.
To be honest, I feel that I am blessed. I have had the opportunity and the honor to have many friends in my life, and to have a close group of friends by my side always. But you will forever remain my best friend. I just can't give that away to anyone else. No one can and no one should replace you. That's just the way I see it. I don't want to offend any one of my friends but that's the truth about me. I will never have any other best friend. I just can't.
I hide these tears, these emptiness, these broken-ness all inside. People shouldn't see it. That is locked in a memory so deep, it's privacy should be forever locked away from the world.
Perhaps I hold on to the grief not because I don't want to forget you (that I never will), nor is it because I am to weak to move on (I always do); instead I hold onto the grief because you taught me life. It was because of you and losing you that made me who I am today.
1. You always have a choice, no matter what
2. Never regret the choices that seem wrong, learn and become better
3. Never give up the fight, there is always a chance no matter how small or hopeless a situation may be
4. Loyalty.
5. Do ever be afraid.
I am who I am today because of you. You say I should never follow in your footsteps. I am sorry but I did. The good and the bad. Heroes aren't perfect, they are after all human. That's who you are and that's who I became.
I wish you were here still. Every time I get into a little trouble, I wish you were here to listen. I wish you were still here to guide me, to tell me off whenever I get out of line, to share my disappointments and my achievements. But the reality is you aren't. I have long accepted that fact. You are never coming back.
I came across this particular quote on the net, "If tears could build a stairway, and memories a lane, I'd walk right up to Heaven and bring you home again..."
I think I should hate you.
I hate you for leaving your family broken with holes they may never fill.
I hate you for having 大姐's heart broken and smashed to a million pieces, never to be healed again.
I hate you for your little boy never got to see the light of day.
I hate the fact you selfishly left all your friends with nothing but a shadow of empty hope that you may one day walk through that door.
Most importantly, I hate you for making me feel so empty and hollow, you are suppose to be my "brother", my buddy, MY BEST FRIEND!
I should hate you, I really should.
But the truth is, I don't hate you. I simply can't.
For it was not your intention to leave us, your family and your friends.
Yes life is not fair.
Sometimes I wish on a wishing star that it was all nothing but a horrible nightmare.
I wish a wish that will never come true.
You aren't coming back. You never will.
They say in time, the loss of someone will get easier. But they didn't say how long it will take. It has been 7 years... 7 long years. Yet with every passing year, the pain never seems to heal. With every passing year, the grief sticks on.
To be honest, I feel that I am blessed. I have had the opportunity and the honor to have many friends in my life, and to have a close group of friends by my side always. But you will forever remain my best friend. I just can't give that away to anyone else. No one can and no one should replace you. That's just the way I see it. I don't want to offend any one of my friends but that's the truth about me. I will never have any other best friend. I just can't.
I hide these tears, these emptiness, these broken-ness all inside. People shouldn't see it. That is locked in a memory so deep, it's privacy should be forever locked away from the world.
Perhaps I hold on to the grief not because I don't want to forget you (that I never will), nor is it because I am to weak to move on (I always do); instead I hold onto the grief because you taught me life. It was because of you and losing you that made me who I am today.
1. You always have a choice, no matter what
2. Never regret the choices that seem wrong, learn and become better
3. Never give up the fight, there is always a chance no matter how small or hopeless a situation may be
4. Loyalty.
5. Do ever be afraid.
I am who I am today because of you. You say I should never follow in your footsteps. I am sorry but I did. The good and the bad. Heroes aren't perfect, they are after all human. That's who you are and that's who I became.
I wish you were here still. Every time I get into a little trouble, I wish you were here to listen. I wish you were still here to guide me, to tell me off whenever I get out of line, to share my disappointments and my achievements. But the reality is you aren't. I have long accepted that fact. You are never coming back.
It was fate that you end your life young and took you away from us all. And perhaps till that day when fate comes knocking on my door, be it sooner or later, I will join you someday.
P. Diddy, F. Evans and Sting "I'll Be Missing You"
Monday, June 6, 2011
They Have Done It Again (The Wolfpack is BACK!).. The Hangover 2!
Since we are on the theme of mayhem (see previous entry on Pirates of the Caribbean: On Stranger Tides), perhaps 2nd only to Captain Jack Sparrow in the mayhem causing department are the guys from 'The Hangover 2'. Different wedding, different city but same crazy, mad-cap adventure!
Relax, if you didn't watch the first one, not much of a big deal. There is not a lot to link by though I do suggest at least reading the synopsis from the 1st movie if you have completely NO IDEA what the Hangover is about.
Again, the plot is secondary (since there really is no change between the first and the second). What is primary is the amount of laughs you can and WILL get out of this movie! And I don't mean "hehe" kind of laughter, I am talking about BIG ASS "HA HA HA HA" kind of laughter.
The main casts reprise their roles as with a certain cameo.
You should watch this movie if you have the time and if you are really in need of a crude laugh! THE WOLFPACK IS BACK AND BANGKOK HAS THEM!
Gonna give this 2.5 AIYOS out of 5!
Captain Jack Sparrow is Back!
Ahoy there mates! This is actually a long time coming since I watched a couple of days after its released almost 2 weeks ago.
Captain Jack Sparrow is back to create more mayhem in the pirate world (much to our enjoyment) as Johnny Depp brings back the character we all madly fell in love with (that is the cunning, loony, mad, greedy and insane pirate that became our heroes) in the first place!
This time round Pirates 4 (long form: "Pirates of the Caribbean 4 - On Stranger Tides") has taken away much of the additional, boring and naggy plots (that is Will and Elizabeth storyline) and went straight into why we loved Pirates so much in the first place.
Johnny Depp's immaculate performance as the crafty, insidious, shrewed, mayhem-causing pirate with a heart is as always the main attraction of the movie. Add on the sultry and sexy Penelope Cruz (along with a host of other very respectable A-listers: Ian McShane, Geoffrey Rush, Keith Richards and Dame Judy Dench, the latter 2 as cameo's) and you get a crazy, action-packed movie with plenty of comic-reliefs that stays true to the original Pirates movies.
The search for the 'Fountain of Youth', one which we all in reality secretly wished there was, was merely a side-show. In fact, the plot is secondary (Mermaids, zombies, fountain of youth, etc.). The cast was the primary reason that made the movie worth watching and they did not disappoint. Simply back-to-basics.
If you HAVEN'T watched it then you should. It is truly worth the money in this shorter 2.15 hour movie. Possibly I would suggest a 2nd watch in the cinema's if you have the time (and money).
3 AIYOHs out of 5!
Captain Jack Sparrow is back to create more mayhem in the pirate world (much to our enjoyment) as Johnny Depp brings back the character we all madly fell in love with (that is the cunning, loony, mad, greedy and insane pirate that became our heroes) in the first place!
This time round Pirates 4 (long form: "Pirates of the Caribbean 4 - On Stranger Tides") has taken away much of the additional, boring and naggy plots (that is Will and Elizabeth storyline) and went straight into why we loved Pirates so much in the first place.
Johnny Depp's immaculate performance as the crafty, insidious, shrewed, mayhem-causing pirate with a heart is as always the main attraction of the movie. Add on the sultry and sexy Penelope Cruz (along with a host of other very respectable A-listers: Ian McShane, Geoffrey Rush, Keith Richards and Dame Judy Dench, the latter 2 as cameo's) and you get a crazy, action-packed movie with plenty of comic-reliefs that stays true to the original Pirates movies.
The search for the 'Fountain of Youth', one which we all in reality secretly wished there was, was merely a side-show. In fact, the plot is secondary (Mermaids, zombies, fountain of youth, etc.). The cast was the primary reason that made the movie worth watching and they did not disappoint. Simply back-to-basics.
If you HAVEN'T watched it then you should. It is truly worth the money in this shorter 2.15 hour movie. Possibly I would suggest a 2nd watch in the cinema's if you have the time (and money).
3 AIYOHs out of 5!
I ♥ This Song
七里香 MV- 周杰倫
This song was released in 2004. 7 years on and this still remains my favorite song. I can listen to this over and over and OVER again and never get sick of it. Chicken backside or not, this song is significant throughout my life, through the good and the bad. Love it!
Sunday, June 5, 2011
I ♥ Bangkok
So Sharon remarked that every year it seems to be my 21st Birthday celebration. I couldn't agree more. It takes a good month to celebrate my birthday proper with the highlight being a trip to Thailand on the actual day itself.
This year, I finally fulfilled my wish of heading to Bangkok (after 5 paid for and failed attempts), alas the curse is broken! Spent 5 gloriously epic days (13 May to 17 May) in Krung Thep Maha Nakhon (กรุงเทพมหานคร), also known as the "City of Angels" with some of the 7AM gang!
I loved every minute of it. I love Thailand (maybe it's because Thai blood does run in my veins). I love the people. I love the culture. I love the food. I love the sights, the sounds, the hustle and bustle of it all. Of all the other amazing holiday destinations I have been on, for some reason Thailand comes out on top of it all.
Everything about that Bangkok holiday was A-M-A-Z-I-N-G! What made it more special was celebrating my actual birthday over there!
The city is vibrant, it's colorful, it's maniacal, it's beautiful. The people are warm, sincere, hospitable. The food, oh the GLORIOUSLY SALIVATING CHEAP FOOD and CHEAPER CLOTHES! To me, between Bangkok and Phuket, I still choose the former (though slenderly).
To sum up my 5 days there:
Day 01:
We flew via Thai Airways and it was a real comfortable flight to Suvarnabhumi Airport and we stayed at the new FX Furama Makkasan. Very cheap and very simple yet chic boutique hotel. The staff are all really really friendly and hospitable (as with the Thai people) and best part, we are barely 7 mins taxi ride away, literally down the road from Platinum Mall (bear in mind, this is if you are not caught in the jam). Walked around MBK, Siam Paragon, Siam Center before dinner at Somboon Seafood just behind MBK. If you are in Bangkok, you HAVE TO eat there! The seafood is so fresh and cheap. Just take note there are many copy cats so make sure you are at the right one. Stayed in the hotel to drink the first night away to cap off an amazing first day. [P.S. Corruption at its best, my 2 friends were caught littering and we were stopped by the Thai police who said, each has to just pay them 1000 Baht each and we won't get fined or go court!]
We flew via Thai Airways and it was a real comfortable flight to Suvarnabhumi Airport and we stayed at the new FX Furama Makkasan. Very cheap and very simple yet chic boutique hotel. The staff are all really really friendly and hospitable (as with the Thai people) and best part, we are barely 7 mins taxi ride away, literally down the road from Platinum Mall (bear in mind, this is if you are not caught in the jam). Walked around MBK, Siam Paragon, Siam Center before dinner at Somboon Seafood just behind MBK. If you are in Bangkok, you HAVE TO eat there! The seafood is so fresh and cheap. Just take note there are many copy cats so make sure you are at the right one. Stayed in the hotel to drink the first night away to cap off an amazing first day. [P.S. Corruption at its best, my 2 friends were caught littering and we were stopped by the Thai police who said, each has to just pay them 1000 Baht each and we won't get fined or go court!]
Day 02:
More shopping on the cards as we headed out to Platinum Mall which is just down the road from our hotel. In what was a 5 to 10 mins drive became 30 in the Bangkok jam. I think we all went CRAZY with all the wholesale prices over there. Think we spent 5 hours shopping at both Platinum buildings! At night we went to Sirocco right on the 64th floor of State Tower to see the Bangkok skylines (and to officially countdown to my birthday)! The view was breath-taking. Unfortunately right after we finished our dinner there it began to rain so couldn't get any photos of the skyline. Route 66 at RCA was next up and that's where the night went completely berserk and epic for me. Lets just say what ever HAPPENED in Bangkok STAYS in Bangkok! Oh yes. I got really really REALLY drunk (a rarity).
Day 03:
Woke up to Jay Chou concert on Thai channel. The Thai's really do love Jay Chou. I see his photos quite often in shops in Bangkok. On TV his The Era Concert was voted most wanted. BEST, Chatuchak played Jay Chou songs on their loud speakers! More shopping this time at Chatuchak Weekend Market. The place was HUGE but didn't buy much since it is cheaper in Platinum. But spent hours walking around till our legs became jelly. Can you imagine, walking around the huge market and the speakers kept blasting Jay Chou music! Ended the night at the infamous Patpong stretch. The Thai girl shows were an eye opener certainly. Disgusting in a way. But still an eye opener. Met Viv's friend Ning as well and best part of the night, THE DUCK NOODLES from Thailand. AWESOME!
More shopping on the cards as we headed out to Platinum Mall which is just down the road from our hotel. In what was a 5 to 10 mins drive became 30 in the Bangkok jam. I think we all went CRAZY with all the wholesale prices over there. Think we spent 5 hours shopping at both Platinum buildings! At night we went to Sirocco right on the 64th floor of State Tower to see the Bangkok skylines (and to officially countdown to my birthday)! The view was breath-taking. Unfortunately right after we finished our dinner there it began to rain so couldn't get any photos of the skyline. Route 66 at RCA was next up and that's where the night went completely berserk and epic for me. Lets just say what ever HAPPENED in Bangkok STAYS in Bangkok! Oh yes. I got really really REALLY drunk (a rarity).
Day 03:
Woke up to Jay Chou concert on Thai channel. The Thai's really do love Jay Chou. I see his photos quite often in shops in Bangkok. On TV his The Era Concert was voted most wanted. BEST, Chatuchak played Jay Chou songs on their loud speakers! More shopping this time at Chatuchak Weekend Market. The place was HUGE but didn't buy much since it is cheaper in Platinum. But spent hours walking around till our legs became jelly. Can you imagine, walking around the huge market and the speakers kept blasting Jay Chou music! Ended the night at the infamous Patpong stretch. The Thai girl shows were an eye opener certainly. Disgusting in a way. But still an eye opener. Met Viv's friend Ning as well and best part of the night, THE DUCK NOODLES from Thailand. AWESOME!
Day 04:
Woke up damn early to head to The Floating Market outside of Bangkok at Damneonsaduk area. It was about 2 hours journey out of Bangkok. But it was a vibrant place full of colors and people and culture (abeit with some commercialism). The warmth and friendliness continues on and you feel at home. By the time afternoon came, we had to say goodbye to Edwin and Jo who are leaving a day earlier than us. But before that our final lunch as a whole group consisted of chicken rice which is apperently highly recommended along the streets of Bangkok oppositie Platinum area. It was so good we all had 2 ROUNDS each! The rest of us continued on SHOPPING this time back at the Siam Center area (Paragon, MBK, Discovery, etc.) where I couldn't resist buying 2 Andy Roddick Polo-Shirt and Jacket from their Lacoste boutique! More drinking in the hotel late into the night...
Overall. I really love Bangkok. I really love Thailand. I have no qualms about celebrating there every year. Last year Phuket, this year Bangkok. Thinking which part of Thailand next year! What a way to cap a wonderful week of my 24th birthday celebrations with all my friends. It is truly amazing! Thank you all for making every party happen! :D
Woke up damn early to head to The Floating Market outside of Bangkok at Damneonsaduk area. It was about 2 hours journey out of Bangkok. But it was a vibrant place full of colors and people and culture (abeit with some commercialism). The warmth and friendliness continues on and you feel at home. By the time afternoon came, we had to say goodbye to Edwin and Jo who are leaving a day earlier than us. But before that our final lunch as a whole group consisted of chicken rice which is apperently highly recommended along the streets of Bangkok oppositie Platinum area. It was so good we all had 2 ROUNDS each! The rest of us continued on SHOPPING this time back at the Siam Center area (Paragon, MBK, Discovery, etc.) where I couldn't resist buying 2 Andy Roddick Polo-Shirt and Jacket from their Lacoste boutique! More drinking in the hotel late into the night...
Day 05:
Reality hit. Had to say bye to Bangkok. Of course since we took the last flight out, we shopped a final time at the Platinum area and one final massage before heading to the airport home.
Overall. I really love Bangkok. I really love Thailand. I have no qualms about celebrating there every year. Last year Phuket, this year Bangkok. Thinking which part of Thailand next year! What a way to cap a wonderful week of my 24th birthday celebrations with all my friends. It is truly amazing! Thank you all for making every party happen! :D
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