Our trip to Johor Baru today was most enjoyable. The drive into JB was quick and trouble free. Surprisingly the traffic to JB was very good and within half an hour we were in Malaysia. Today is the Haj holiday and there were fewer vehicles on the road.
We visited our house in Saleng and then proceeded to shop at Giant supermarket for groceries and fruits. Bought a pair of cordless telephones for our Singapore home. I think we went a little overboard and spent nearly RM400 at Giants, more than our usual shopping bill. Some items purchased are for UK but most are for Singapore consumption.
After Giant supermarket shopping we proceeded to Carrefour along Jalan Terbau. Bought a few items from Carrefour. Carrefour has a wider range of products we usually buy from Giant and we found that it is cheaper too. We have decided that our future grocery shopping will be from Carrefour instead of Giant.
On our return journey to Singapore we stopped at Pelangi shopping mall. We could not find a decent restaurant for our New Year Eve celebration dinner. Bought a few hooky DVD and continued our journey back to Singapore.
Our New Year Eve celebration dinner was at Clementi Food Centre - we had Singapore Laksa!!!
Sunday, December 31, 2006
Saturday, December 30, 2006
Singapore Off-Peak Car
Just read in the papers that Singapore cars that have off-peak registrations are not allowed to enter Johor during peak hours. Off-peak cars are only allowed on the Singapore roads during periods between 7 pm and 7 am the next morning and from 3 pm on Saturday through to 7 am on Monday. I guess these restrictions will also apply to Malaysia from January 1 2007. With that in mind, it looks like we will be able to use our off-peak car in JB only during weekends. However this will be a problem as we will need the car to visit Malaysia utility offices to pay utility bills. Such offices are closed during the weekends.
Well, we will have to think about solving this problem soon.
Tomorrow is Sunday and that means we are allowed to enter Malaysia with the car. Plan to do a little shopping at Giant Suprmarket and also a visit to Terbau City. Lunch will be at one of the restaurants in Terbau City.
Well, we will have to think about solving this problem soon.
Tomorrow is Sunday and that means we are allowed to enter Malaysia with the car. Plan to do a little shopping at Giant Suprmarket and also a visit to Terbau City. Lunch will be at one of the restaurants in Terbau City.
My life in Singapore
My life in Singapore cannot be called dull, but on the other hand I wouldn’t consider it interesting either. To live in Singapore I have come to the conclusion that one has to understand the mentality of the people. There are many good and gracious habits of the Singaporeans and there are as many ugly aspects one encounters here too. To have a happy life here one must learn to “ blend in “. I certainly do not mean that one has to bring oneself down to the level of some ugly sides of the Singaporeans, but one has to learn to accept that it is the norm here. If one cannot accept this concept then it is better to stay clear of this little “ red dot “.
The longer I remain here in Singapore, the more I find life bearable. In the beginning I was constantly at odds with certain behavior here, where in a civilize society one would take as rudeness. Here are but a few of the what I call unacceptable behavior one encounters in a day to day life in Singapore.
Queue jumping – this is a norm. Singaporean must be first in everything; hence they are always looking for ways to be ahead.
Loud – Singaporeans speak loudly in public places. Noise pollution or courtesy to neighbours is an alien concept.
Never give way – if you see a Singaporeans walking towards you and without avoidance would result in a crash, you better give way or there will be a crash.
Rude drivers – Singaporeans like to be considered as citizens from a first world country. The way they drive, they might as well come from a third world African state.
Money grabbers – To Singaporeans money is God. There is no other more important item in the whole world that even comes close in importance as money is to the Singaporeans. There is a saying that Singaporeans would sell their mothers for money; however, I personally think that that is going too far.
Ungracious – You seldom hear a Singaporean say thank you when you hold the door open for them or when you allow them to pass before you. However, I tend to put that down to the Singapore way and not rudeness through intention.
I very seldom see young Singaporeans offering seats to the elderly or the needy in public transport or anywhere else for that matter.
Of course there are many good points about the people of Singapore. Surprisingly I am unable to think of any right at this moment. When I do, I will publish them in my blog at a later date.
The longer I remain here in Singapore, the more I find life bearable. In the beginning I was constantly at odds with certain behavior here, where in a civilize society one would take as rudeness. Here are but a few of the what I call unacceptable behavior one encounters in a day to day life in Singapore.
Queue jumping – this is a norm. Singaporean must be first in everything; hence they are always looking for ways to be ahead.
Loud – Singaporeans speak loudly in public places. Noise pollution or courtesy to neighbours is an alien concept.
Never give way – if you see a Singaporeans walking towards you and without avoidance would result in a crash, you better give way or there will be a crash.
Rude drivers – Singaporeans like to be considered as citizens from a first world country. The way they drive, they might as well come from a third world African state.
Money grabbers – To Singaporeans money is God. There is no other more important item in the whole world that even comes close in importance as money is to the Singaporeans. There is a saying that Singaporeans would sell their mothers for money; however, I personally think that that is going too far.
Ungracious – You seldom hear a Singaporean say thank you when you hold the door open for them or when you allow them to pass before you. However, I tend to put that down to the Singapore way and not rudeness through intention.
I very seldom see young Singaporeans offering seats to the elderly or the needy in public transport or anywhere else for that matter.
Of course there are many good points about the people of Singapore. Surprisingly I am unable to think of any right at this moment. When I do, I will publish them in my blog at a later date.
Monday, December 25, 2006
My Hometown Segamat Flood
The torrential rain over the past week has taken a toll on many low areas in Malaysia. Unfortunately, my hometown of Segamat in Northern Johor has been badly affected. The town was completely cut off for 2 days. Roads into and out of Segamat were submerged in many feet of water.
Many buildings including shops and residential houses in the newer part of town have been flooded. Some relatives of mine have had to be evacuated because their residences were under 3 to 4 feet of flood water. Electricity and water supply to the affected areas have been cut due to cable and pipe damage. In certain areas these essential services have not been reinstated.
It is sad to see so much damage and suffering cause by nature. Thankfully the worst is over as the rain has stopped. Clearing, cleaning and repair work can start now that the water has receded. The highways into and out of town are open and hopefully life can get back to normal again.
Sunday, December 24, 2006
KL and Back
Tuesday 19 December 2006 was a bad day for driving up the North-South Highway from Singapore to KL. The drive was pretty slow due to the heavy downpour practically all the way. Started the journey from Singapore at 9.30 am and by the time we got to the Malacca junction it was almost 12.00 pm. As we were in no hurry to get to KL, we decided to make a detour to Malacca town for lunch. We looked for and found this lovely peranakan dining place and had a delicious lunch. The lunch was certainly worth the detour.
After lunch we continued our journey north toward KL. The rain continued to be heavy so the remainder of the journey was slow. We got to KL at about 4.00 pm. Owing to the heavy rain of the day, we later found out that a great part of Johor has been flooded including our hometown Segamat. All roads in and out of Segamat were impassable. Our town has been completely cut off.
Mandarin Oriental was our hotel. Situated right next to KLCC and the Twin Towers it was conveniently located for shopping and food. During our 3 days stay we did our usual tour of KLCC, Bintang Walk and Imbi Plaza. Food was always good in KL. Bak Kut Teh for breakfast, noodles for lunch and dinner at the Overseas Restaurant.
The last night was special. I got to meet up with Onn again. Onn my friend from my school days back in Segamat was kind enough to arrange for the dinner at Fattycrab Restaurant. He also arrange for me to meet up with Chin Moh, Soo Leng and Yok Yin. The best part was I got to meet his charming wife Julina. It was a wonderful dinner and a pleasant trip down memory lane.
We will be making another trip to KL in the new year and I hope to be able to see all my old friends again, especially Onn and Julina.
After lunch we continued our journey north toward KL. The rain continued to be heavy so the remainder of the journey was slow. We got to KL at about 4.00 pm. Owing to the heavy rain of the day, we later found out that a great part of Johor has been flooded including our hometown Segamat. All roads in and out of Segamat were impassable. Our town has been completely cut off.
Mandarin Oriental was our hotel. Situated right next to KLCC and the Twin Towers it was conveniently located for shopping and food. During our 3 days stay we did our usual tour of KLCC, Bintang Walk and Imbi Plaza. Food was always good in KL. Bak Kut Teh for breakfast, noodles for lunch and dinner at the Overseas Restaurant.
The last night was special. I got to meet up with Onn again. Onn my friend from my school days back in Segamat was kind enough to arrange for the dinner at Fattycrab Restaurant. He also arrange for me to meet up with Chin Moh, Soo Leng and Yok Yin. The best part was I got to meet his charming wife Julina. It was a wonderful dinner and a pleasant trip down memory lane.
We will be making another trip to KL in the new year and I hope to be able to see all my old friends again, especially Onn and Julina.
Monday, December 18, 2006
Kuala Lumpur
Kuala Lumpur my favourite city in Southeast Asia. It is nowhere as clean and orderly as Singapore, but unlike Singapore it has character. One feels alive when in KL. At least here one does not get the feeling that "big brother" is watching you wherever you go. A more relax atmosphere and a fantastic place for R and R.
Food in KL is far superior than that found in Singapore and far cheaper. Shopping in KL is better and cheaper and a totally more interesting experience.
The KLites are friendly unlike the majority of Singaporeans. Here you see smiling faces instead of the "I do not care" stares one gets with the Singaporeans. Malaysian are a friendly lot and it is always a pleasure being in Malaysia. Coming across the causeway from Singapore into Malaysia is like a breath of fresh air.
I am traveling to KL tomorrow. I am all packed and looking forward to a few days in KL. Ofcourse I am a little bias, I was born in Malaysia.
Food in KL is far superior than that found in Singapore and far cheaper. Shopping in KL is better and cheaper and a totally more interesting experience.
The KLites are friendly unlike the majority of Singaporeans. Here you see smiling faces instead of the "I do not care" stares one gets with the Singaporeans. Malaysian are a friendly lot and it is always a pleasure being in Malaysia. Coming across the causeway from Singapore into Malaysia is like a breath of fresh air.
I am traveling to KL tomorrow. I am all packed and looking forward to a few days in KL. Ofcourse I am a little bias, I was born in Malaysia.
Saturday, December 16, 2006
A day in Johor Baru
Today we decided to go to Johor Baru in Malaysia. Started early at 6.15 am hoping to beat the usual heavy traffic at the immigration check points in Singapore Woodlands and also in Johor Baru. Unfortunately as it is the end of year school holiday in Singapore there was already a long queue at the Causeway when we got there at 6.35 am. We managed to get into Malaysia at 8.00 am. Proceeded to Senai where to stop for our usual breakfast of wonton mee and coffee. Got to our Senai house at 9.00 am only to find that the water supply to the house had been terminated owing to non-payment of water bills. On top of that, we received a letter from the sewer department of Senai summoning us to court for non-payment of sewer charges. As the house had not been occupied there should not be any sewer charges. A visit to the sewer department soon solved the problem and procedures has been started to rectify the anomalies.
Stopped at our usual Malay fruit seller for our supply of fruits. Bought some mangoes and pineapples.
Visited the water department to pay the fine and outstanding charges but as there was a long queue waiting to be served when we got there we decided to pay the fine another day and at the same time apply for reconnection.
The rest of the day was spent at the Holiday Inn Plaza and Terbau City. At Holiday Inn Plaza, Dianne my wife, visited the hair salon for a hair cut while I shopped around for the latest hooky DVDs of the latest movies. I found 11 movies for a mere RM66 ( approx 9 GBP ). Also bought a little USB fan for the laptop. Now I can keep cool while working on the laptop.
Lunch was at the Meritus Meridian. It was a buffet lunch. It was delicious and a mere RM85 ( 12 GBP ) for both of us.
Terbau City was for shopping. Dianne bought a few blouses and a handbag. We shopped for groceries at Jusco. Bought some soft coconuts and a box of doughnuts for Ivan and Kenny ( brother-in-law’s boys ) and then proceeded home to Singapore.
Return journey was traffic free and we got back at 9.00 pm after dropping off the coconuts and doughnuts for the boys.
Stopped at our usual Malay fruit seller for our supply of fruits. Bought some mangoes and pineapples.
Visited the water department to pay the fine and outstanding charges but as there was a long queue waiting to be served when we got there we decided to pay the fine another day and at the same time apply for reconnection.
The rest of the day was spent at the Holiday Inn Plaza and Terbau City. At Holiday Inn Plaza, Dianne my wife, visited the hair salon for a hair cut while I shopped around for the latest hooky DVDs of the latest movies. I found 11 movies for a mere RM66 ( approx 9 GBP ). Also bought a little USB fan for the laptop. Now I can keep cool while working on the laptop.
Lunch was at the Meritus Meridian. It was a buffet lunch. It was delicious and a mere RM85 ( 12 GBP ) for both of us.
Terbau City was for shopping. Dianne bought a few blouses and a handbag. We shopped for groceries at Jusco. Bought some soft coconuts and a box of doughnuts for Ivan and Kenny ( brother-in-law’s boys ) and then proceeded home to Singapore.
Return journey was traffic free and we got back at 9.00 pm after dropping off the coconuts and doughnuts for the boys.
Tuesday, December 12, 2006
Back in Singapore
Now back in Singapore. Winter has arrived in the UK. When we left on Sunday December 10 the weather was grey and wet. It was a typical winter day. Can’t say I am not glad to leave the wet wintry weather. However, not that I am here in Singapore, I am not too sure I am going to enjoy the heat and the humidity. Anyway I am going to be here for the next two months so I better get used to this weather.
Heathrow on December 10 was a total disgrace. Chaos was everywhere. Owing to the extra security measures at the airport, the queues through security checks were a total shamble. The people who came up with the way passengers were handled should be ashamed of themselves.
All passengers after check-in were told to queue in a holding tent outside the terminal building. The queue formed was around 250 people in length. Then there were the constant calls for people with earlier gate closing time to come forward to join a priority queue. We had 4 hours to spare before our gate closing time, so we were classed as low priority and hence constantly pushed back to the end of the queue. We finally got to the security checks with only minutes to spare before the gate to our flight closes. It took us 4 hours from the time we joined the queue to boarding our flight. It was not the best day for UK with so many frustrated world travelers seeing the ugly side of a very angry and disappointed mob.
The journey from home in UK to home in Singapore took us a total of 24 hours. It was a long day!! The flight was OK. We were in Economy class on this trip so there were no luxuries. BA has never been known for comfort. Food was of the usual airplane variety. BA cabin-crew was OK but one could see that the aircraft has seen better days. The toilet furniture were old and needed repair. One of the toilets had a broken seat and the panel behind had been glued to hide a crack. The seat I was in had a broken headphone socket with sound coming only from one earphone. Well BA is noted for safety and maintenance of its aircrafts. Let’s hope that although the aircrafts are old, they are well maintained.
First day in Singapore, the weather is considerably warmer than that in UK. Looking forward to a trip to JB this Saturday and a few days in KL next week. In January we have booked a few days in Phuket.
Heathrow on December 10 was a total disgrace. Chaos was everywhere. Owing to the extra security measures at the airport, the queues through security checks were a total shamble. The people who came up with the way passengers were handled should be ashamed of themselves.
All passengers after check-in were told to queue in a holding tent outside the terminal building. The queue formed was around 250 people in length. Then there were the constant calls for people with earlier gate closing time to come forward to join a priority queue. We had 4 hours to spare before our gate closing time, so we were classed as low priority and hence constantly pushed back to the end of the queue. We finally got to the security checks with only minutes to spare before the gate to our flight closes. It took us 4 hours from the time we joined the queue to boarding our flight. It was not the best day for UK with so many frustrated world travelers seeing the ugly side of a very angry and disappointed mob.
The journey from home in UK to home in Singapore took us a total of 24 hours. It was a long day!! The flight was OK. We were in Economy class on this trip so there were no luxuries. BA has never been known for comfort. Food was of the usual airplane variety. BA cabin-crew was OK but one could see that the aircraft has seen better days. The toilet furniture were old and needed repair. One of the toilets had a broken seat and the panel behind had been glued to hide a crack. The seat I was in had a broken headphone socket with sound coming only from one earphone. Well BA is noted for safety and maintenance of its aircrafts. Let’s hope that although the aircrafts are old, they are well maintained.
First day in Singapore, the weather is considerably warmer than that in UK. Looking forward to a trip to JB this Saturday and a few days in KL next week. In January we have booked a few days in Phuket.
Thursday, November 23, 2006
Spain - Costa-del-Sol
Mijas
Mijas
Hercules cave - Tangier
Hercules Cave - Tangier
Monkey of Gibraltar
Rock of Gibraltar
Sunrise in Marbella
Esplanade - FuengirolaNovember in the Costa del Sol in Spain is highly recommended. The weather at this time of the year in this part of Spain ranges from 20 – 28 deg C, although rain could be a problem. During our week in Spain we had only one rainy day.
Our holiday resort, the Club La Costa, situated just outside Fuengirola on to road to Marbella, was impressive. It was a very large well equipped holiday resort suitable for retirees, young couples and families. The apartments were very comfortable, clean and well maintained. The facilities within the resort cater for holiday makers of all age group. I guess the resort would be the sort of place the British holiday makers would go for their summer vacations. We were there in November and although it was off season the resort was quite crowded with holiday makers from United Kingdom, Europe and the United States.
This part of Spain is popular with summer holiday makers from the UK. The surrounding beaches and the esplanades in coastal towns are magnets to the sun seekers who enjoy the abundance of sunshine and alcoholic beverages. Suitable also for family with young or teenage children, this part of Spain offers guaranteed summer sunshine and a whole host of other activities.
The nearby towns from the Club La Costa resort are worth visiting. From the resort one could go on day excursions to some popular town.
Fuengirola
This is a typical Spanish coastal resort town with a long esplanade lined on one side by restaurants and bars. The beach was quiet during our visit. Along the esplanade one can also find luxury apartments for rent during the summer season. I guess this town would probably be extremely busy and crowded during the summer months. The town or Fuengirola is quite a busy place with shops, restaurants and bar. The bus station which is the heart of town is always crowded. From here one can take bus rides to other nearby towns in the area. The bus services are efficient and a very cheap mode of transport.
Marbella
Marbella is a bigger holiday town than Fuengirola. The esplanade stretches for more than a mile with the usual bars, cafes and restaurants. Luxury apartments line the seafront with a sandy beach. Even in November the place seem to be quite crowed with tourists and Spanish holiday makers. Away from the beach front the town of Marbella is picturesque and well planned. The streets are clean and the traffic smooth flowing. There is a large section of the town reserved for pedestrians. This is the shopping area with restaurants and cafes. There are park areas within the town. These are well kept and there are numerous clean garden benches for weary tourists. On the whole a pretty town, well worth a visit.
Mijas
Mijas is a small Spanish town nestling on the slope of the hill behind Fuengirola. It is a typical Spanish town with white buildings along narrow streets. It is a very beautiful little town with friendly people. The scenery from this place is just unbelievable. The weather on the day we were in Mijas was clear and we could see all the way to Fuengirola and out to the blue sea beyond. Sitting outside one of numerous cafes, drinking lovely coffee and looking out over the valley to the sea was just so peaceful and out of this world. Of all the towns along Costa del Sol, Mijas must be one of the best places to visit.
Mijas is a small Spanish town nestling on the slope of the hill behind Fuengirola. It is a typical Spanish town with white buildings along narrow streets. It is a very beautiful little town with friendly people. The scenery from this place is just unbelievable. The weather on the day we were in Mijas was clear and we could see all the way to Fuengirola and out to the blue sea beyond. Sitting outside one of numerous cafes, drinking lovely coffee and looking out over the valley to the sea was just so peaceful and out of this world. Of all the towns along Costa del Sol, Mijas must be one of the best places to visit.
Gibraltar
A trip to Gibraltar when at Costa del Sol is a definite must. Only an hour and a half away from the resort the rock of Gibraltar offers tourists a view of the famous rock that has been a bone of contention between Spain and the UK for so long. A drive up the rock to view the town below is another attraction. Up near the top one must visit the cave which offers a view of the famous stalactites and the stalagmites. Also near the top there are the permanent residents of the rock, the apes of Gibraltar. These are actually not apes but monkeys. They are friendly and have no objection to being photographed.
Tangier in Morocco
To get to Tangier one has to travel by coach to Tarifa near Gibraltar. From here there is a fast ferry to Tangier. The crossing takes 45 minutes. The day of our journey to Tangier was rainy and windy and the crossing was very rough. A visit to the restroom verified the roughness of the sea. The storm got worst later that day and our ferry for the return journey was cancelled. We had to return to Spain via Algeciras on the car ferry.
In spite of the rain Tangier is an interesting city. Here we could see the mixture of cultures from Arabic Islam to Western Christianity. Churches and mosques exist side by side. Spoken language is mostly Moroccan although Spanish and French are also common.
The souk of Tangier is an interesting place to visit. Here they sell everything from Moroccan clothes, shoes, artifacts, carpets, spices to the modern TV, DVD players etc. A very interesting place to visit with its little narrow alleys. When in the souk one must be prepared to be followed by a whole string of vendors of local brass and wooden souvenirs.
Near Tangier there is a cave called Hercules Cave. This is an interesting place where mill stones were mined in days gone by.
Unfortunately our day in Tangier was wet. Had the weather been nice we would have had a better experience.
Our week in Spain was good. Enjoyed the trip and the experience.
A trip to Gibraltar when at Costa del Sol is a definite must. Only an hour and a half away from the resort the rock of Gibraltar offers tourists a view of the famous rock that has been a bone of contention between Spain and the UK for so long. A drive up the rock to view the town below is another attraction. Up near the top one must visit the cave which offers a view of the famous stalactites and the stalagmites. Also near the top there are the permanent residents of the rock, the apes of Gibraltar. These are actually not apes but monkeys. They are friendly and have no objection to being photographed.
Tangier in Morocco
To get to Tangier one has to travel by coach to Tarifa near Gibraltar. From here there is a fast ferry to Tangier. The crossing takes 45 minutes. The day of our journey to Tangier was rainy and windy and the crossing was very rough. A visit to the restroom verified the roughness of the sea. The storm got worst later that day and our ferry for the return journey was cancelled. We had to return to Spain via Algeciras on the car ferry.
In spite of the rain Tangier is an interesting city. Here we could see the mixture of cultures from Arabic Islam to Western Christianity. Churches and mosques exist side by side. Spoken language is mostly Moroccan although Spanish and French are also common.
The souk of Tangier is an interesting place to visit. Here they sell everything from Moroccan clothes, shoes, artifacts, carpets, spices to the modern TV, DVD players etc. A very interesting place to visit with its little narrow alleys. When in the souk one must be prepared to be followed by a whole string of vendors of local brass and wooden souvenirs.
Near Tangier there is a cave called Hercules Cave. This is an interesting place where mill stones were mined in days gone by.
Unfortunately our day in Tangier was wet. Had the weather been nice we would have had a better experience.
Our week in Spain was good. Enjoyed the trip and the experience.
Saturday, October 14, 2006
Kew Gardens
London Kew Gardens
A trip to London will never be complete without a visit to the city’s famous Kew Gardens. It has been a long while since our last visit a few years ago. Here at Kew Gardens one can be assured of something spectacular at any season of the year. Our visit was on a fine October day. The last of the roses were still in bloom. The leaves on most trees were still bright green although on some there was a hint of yellow and gold. Early spring will be for the crocuses and the snow drops. Spring will find a brilliant display of different varieties of daffodils. Roses, rhododendrons and other flowers during summer, autumn for the change in colours of the leaves and winter is a time when most plants and trees hibernate away the cold months. It is safe to say that Kew Gardens is worth a visit at all times of the year.
On the day of our visit there was the promotion for cranberry, highlight on pumpkins and a display of more than 200 varieties of apples.
The Princess of Wales Conservatory is worth a visit. Here you will find a fine display of plants from regions in the tropics to the desert. The plants are well displayed with brief descriptions for each.
The rock gardens are well presented with rockery plants some of them still in flower.
Attached are some photographs of the day. Enjoy.
A trip to London will never be complete without a visit to the city’s famous Kew Gardens. It has been a long while since our last visit a few years ago. Here at Kew Gardens one can be assured of something spectacular at any season of the year. Our visit was on a fine October day. The last of the roses were still in bloom. The leaves on most trees were still bright green although on some there was a hint of yellow and gold. Early spring will be for the crocuses and the snow drops. Spring will find a brilliant display of different varieties of daffodils. Roses, rhododendrons and other flowers during summer, autumn for the change in colours of the leaves and winter is a time when most plants and trees hibernate away the cold months. It is safe to say that Kew Gardens is worth a visit at all times of the year.
On the day of our visit there was the promotion for cranberry, highlight on pumpkins and a display of more than 200 varieties of apples.
The Princess of Wales Conservatory is worth a visit. Here you will find a fine display of plants from regions in the tropics to the desert. The plants are well displayed with brief descriptions for each.
The rock gardens are well presented with rockery plants some of them still in flower.
Attached are some photographs of the day. Enjoy.
Thursday, October 05, 2006
Chicago
Chicago aka The Windy City
Three days in Chicago was definitely insufficient to do all the things and see all the interesting places in this city. It is a very vibrant city with many interesting sights. We spent our three days walking the streets of Chicago. It took us a whole day to walk the Magnificent Mile. This is the Chicago version of Oxford Street of London. Here are all the major stores where one can purchase all designers goods. A walk along this stretch is a must when visiting Chicago. The restaurants scattered in this area are also quite good.
Another place to visit in the city is the Navy Pier. From here one could take mini cruises or boat rides to see the famous Chicago skyline. On the day of our visit to this pier, it was the end of September and the weather was a little chilly. The activities on the pier were limited. On a good summer day, I am sure it would be a livelier place.
The Millennium Park of Chicago is situated in the heart of the city. This is a nice place to spend a pleasant afternoon. The open-air concert stadium within the park holds regular musical events.
A three day visit is insufficient to enjoy the whole of Chicago. It is definitely worth a second visit.
Three days in Chicago was definitely insufficient to do all the things and see all the interesting places in this city. It is a very vibrant city with many interesting sights. We spent our three days walking the streets of Chicago. It took us a whole day to walk the Magnificent Mile. This is the Chicago version of Oxford Street of London. Here are all the major stores where one can purchase all designers goods. A walk along this stretch is a must when visiting Chicago. The restaurants scattered in this area are also quite good.
Another place to visit in the city is the Navy Pier. From here one could take mini cruises or boat rides to see the famous Chicago skyline. On the day of our visit to this pier, it was the end of September and the weather was a little chilly. The activities on the pier were limited. On a good summer day, I am sure it would be a livelier place.
The Millennium Park of Chicago is situated in the heart of the city. This is a nice place to spend a pleasant afternoon. The open-air concert stadium within the park holds regular musical events.
A three day visit is insufficient to enjoy the whole of Chicago. It is definitely worth a second visit.
Sunday, September 10, 2006
London
Today we went into London to meet up with our son Martin for lunch. Have not seen Martin for such a long time. It was good seeing him again after so long. He is doing well and happy at what he is doing. It is indeed satisfying to see children doing well. Makes it all worthwhile.
We have not been to London for quite a while. It has not lost it charm. As it was such a nice day, people are al out having a good time. Chinatown is still the same, crowed and vibrant. There are new shops and restaurants here and there, but on the whole it is still a very interesting corner of London. As always lunch was good.
After lunch and a walk through Piccadilly and Leicester Square we poceeded to Baron's Court to visit Yuen and Keng Yoong and their newborn baby. Baby Rae-Lin is coming along well.
Coming home on the underground we met up with the Arsenal fans returning home after their 1 -1 draw at home with Middlesbrough. Must have been a disappointing match for the Arsenal fans. No wonder there wasn't any faces amongst them.
Visiting London on a nice sunny day like today is good and enjoyable.
We have not been to London for quite a while. It has not lost it charm. As it was such a nice day, people are al out having a good time. Chinatown is still the same, crowed and vibrant. There are new shops and restaurants here and there, but on the whole it is still a very interesting corner of London. As always lunch was good.
After lunch and a walk through Piccadilly and Leicester Square we poceeded to Baron's Court to visit Yuen and Keng Yoong and their newborn baby. Baby Rae-Lin is coming along well.
Coming home on the underground we met up with the Arsenal fans returning home after their 1 -1 draw at home with Middlesbrough. Must have been a disappointing match for the Arsenal fans. No wonder there wasn't any faces amongst them.
Visiting London on a nice sunny day like today is good and enjoyable.
Thursday, August 31, 2006
Life in Welwyn Garden City
It has been nearly 2 weeks since returning to UK. The weather has been lousy. It has rained almost everyday since our return. I guess it is better than the heat and humidity of Singapore. The rain is also good for the garden. The underground water table which is very low at the moment would require to be replenished. The weather in the UK as in all regions around the world is going crazy. Global warming has been blamed for all these extreme weather we have been experiencing.
August is coming to a close and come September we should be slowly getting into autumn. I like the autumn colours. The leaves of trees will start turning yellow, brown and gold. The weather will slowly get colder and we can all start preparing for winter and Christmas. I think we will be in Singapore for this Christmas. However, before returning to Singapore in early December we will be spending a few days in Chicago inn September d a week in Spain in November. Looking forward to these trips.
August is coming to a close and come September we should be slowly getting into autumn. I like the autumn colours. The leaves of trees will start turning yellow, brown and gold. The weather will slowly get colder and we can all start preparing for winter and Christmas. I think we will be in Singapore for this Christmas. However, before returning to Singapore in early December we will be spending a few days in Chicago inn September d a week in Spain in November. Looking forward to these trips.
Friday, August 18, 2006
Back in UK - August 2006
Security checks at Changi Airport before departure were very thorough and because many were caught off guard, there were delays because extra time was needed to sort out what could and what were not allowed as cabin baggage. On arrival at Heathrow we were again delayed because no one knew what had happened to the items that were confiscated from the cabin baggage. After much to-ing and fro-ing we finally located our belongings and were able to depart Heathrow. The whole journey was quite an experience.
Our home in Welwyn Garden City was as we had left it, except that we had difficulties opening the front door owing to the amount of mail that has piled up behind it while we were away. Owing to the dry couple of months while we were away, the garden was in a terrible state. The fruit tress looked dehydrated. The fruits on them are small and dry. Well, not going to be a good harvest this year.
All things considered, it is good to be back in UK again. We can go for our daily walks which we can’t do in Singapore due to the hot weather. It is good to shop at the supermarkets again without having to fight for parking. These are but a couple of things that I miss when away from UK.
The garden is now sorted and with the additional water from the kitchen waste and the rain, I hope the fruit trees will revive and provide us with a few fruits. While we are away, the garden birds have not been fed. Now they are back feeding on the bird feeders we have in the garden. It is relaxing to sit in the conservatory and watch the birds.
Oil painting is another hobby of mine that I do when in UK. I have just embarked on touching up some old seascape paintings I did years ago when I was working in Iran. Now that I have gained a little more experience in painting with oil, these old paintings are beginning to look rather amateurish.
Life is beginning to get back to the UK norm. It will be another 4 months before we have to leave for Singapore again. During this time we have a trip to Chicago planned and another to Spain in November. Looking forward to these.
Our home in Welwyn Garden City was as we had left it, except that we had difficulties opening the front door owing to the amount of mail that has piled up behind it while we were away. Owing to the dry couple of months while we were away, the garden was in a terrible state. The fruit tress looked dehydrated. The fruits on them are small and dry. Well, not going to be a good harvest this year.
All things considered, it is good to be back in UK again. We can go for our daily walks which we can’t do in Singapore due to the hot weather. It is good to shop at the supermarkets again without having to fight for parking. These are but a couple of things that I miss when away from UK.
The garden is now sorted and with the additional water from the kitchen waste and the rain, I hope the fruit trees will revive and provide us with a few fruits. While we are away, the garden birds have not been fed. Now they are back feeding on the bird feeders we have in the garden. It is relaxing to sit in the conservatory and watch the birds.
Oil painting is another hobby of mine that I do when in UK. I have just embarked on touching up some old seascape paintings I did years ago when I was working in Iran. Now that I have gained a little more experience in painting with oil, these old paintings are beginning to look rather amateurish.
Life is beginning to get back to the UK norm. It will be another 4 months before we have to leave for Singapore again. During this time we have a trip to Chicago planned and another to Spain in November. Looking forward to these.
Saturday, August 12, 2006
Nasty Experience at Changi Airport
I was caught up in the upbeat security at Changi on August 10 on my way to London. The security at Changi was a total mess. No one knew what was happening. You ask 10 airport personnel, from check-in staff to security officer, and each will tell you a different story and procedure. On the flight before us to London also, they were not allowed to take on board cabin baggage, not even handbags. Everything must be checked in with only passport and money going into transparent bags. On my flight we were allowed cabin baggage. Why the change in procedure all within an hour, we were not told. On arrival I met some passengers from the earlier flight still trying to find their lost cabin bags that were taken off them by check-in personnel. One lady in particular could not find her handbag which contained her car keys, house keys, jewelry and all the items a lady normally carry in their handbags. On top of all that she had with her a young child who was tired and was crying his eyes out. The mother was literally reduced to tears.
Singapore airport is one of the best operated airports I have seen. However, when caught off guard, the whole airport just went into a state of panic and everything seems to fall apart. I dread to think what it will be like if there was indeed a real emergency.
At Heathrow, things were not much better. No one seem to know whether the confiscated hand baggage were loaded on the plane or still in Singapore. It was left to the passengers themselves to go through a mountain of unclaimed bags to seek out their own missing properties. A few were lucky and found what they were looking for. However, many were rather desperate with no one to turn to and not knowing what to do next. One cannot blame those who lost their temper, and many did. After a long haul flight of 13 hours, with children crying because they were tired, parents not knowing what to do, whether to leave the airport or wait till their lost properties turn up.
All in all, a very nasty experience at Changi and also at Heathrow.
Singapore airport is one of the best operated airports I have seen. However, when caught off guard, the whole airport just went into a state of panic and everything seems to fall apart. I dread to think what it will be like if there was indeed a real emergency.
At Heathrow, things were not much better. No one seem to know whether the confiscated hand baggage were loaded on the plane or still in Singapore. It was left to the passengers themselves to go through a mountain of unclaimed bags to seek out their own missing properties. A few were lucky and found what they were looking for. However, many were rather desperate with no one to turn to and not knowing what to do next. One cannot blame those who lost their temper, and many did. After a long haul flight of 13 hours, with children crying because they were tired, parents not knowing what to do, whether to leave the airport or wait till their lost properties turn up.
All in all, a very nasty experience at Changi and also at Heathrow.
Thursday, August 10, 2006
Final days in Singapore
Goodbye Singapore – Hello London
August 6, 2006
I am writing this while still in Singapore and counting down the days when I will be able to wave farewell to Changi Airport. Date of departure is August 10. Well, after nearly 2 months here I have just about reached my tolerance level of this little island. I must admit in some way it is nice to be here. I have part of my family here and seeing them and being close to them is great. Malaysia is just across the causeway which is also good for my fortnightly visits. There are a few things I will miss when I leave here. On the other hand I am also quite looking forward to returning to UK.
Today we went to Chinatown for a dim sum buffet. Food was good and I must admit I had a little too much. No dinner tonight. The most important thing I have to do when I get back to UK is to go on a strict diet and to go for our daily walks. The daily walks will not be a problem; however going on a diet might just prove too difficult. Will just have to wait and see.
August 8, 2006
Visited Orchard Road for a little last minute shopping. Dinner at Food Republic along Orchard Road. The place was quiet considering that it is the eve of the Singapore National Day.
August 9, 2006
Today Singapore celebrates National Day. There is a National Day Parade at the stadium but it is by invitation only. I am really not bothered anyway. I certainly am not interested. Can’t see why they make such a big fuss over it.
We went to the Singapore Swimming club for lunch and then went on to the IMM Mall for some last minute shopping for the wife.
August 10, 2006
Today we leave Singapore. Booked on the night flight on BA016. Really looking forward to our home in Welwyn Garden City. Wonder how the garden has turned out with the lack of rain for the past few weeks. The bird feeders would all be empty and the poor garden birds will have all left. One of the first things that has to be done will be to top up the feeders. Then there are the fruit trees. Hope they are all OK. Looking forward to the fruits from the 3 plum trees. They should be just ripening around this time of the year.
My next post will be from UK.
August 6, 2006
I am writing this while still in Singapore and counting down the days when I will be able to wave farewell to Changi Airport. Date of departure is August 10. Well, after nearly 2 months here I have just about reached my tolerance level of this little island. I must admit in some way it is nice to be here. I have part of my family here and seeing them and being close to them is great. Malaysia is just across the causeway which is also good for my fortnightly visits. There are a few things I will miss when I leave here. On the other hand I am also quite looking forward to returning to UK.
Today we went to Chinatown for a dim sum buffet. Food was good and I must admit I had a little too much. No dinner tonight. The most important thing I have to do when I get back to UK is to go on a strict diet and to go for our daily walks. The daily walks will not be a problem; however going on a diet might just prove too difficult. Will just have to wait and see.
August 8, 2006
Visited Orchard Road for a little last minute shopping. Dinner at Food Republic along Orchard Road. The place was quiet considering that it is the eve of the Singapore National Day.
August 9, 2006
Today Singapore celebrates National Day. There is a National Day Parade at the stadium but it is by invitation only. I am really not bothered anyway. I certainly am not interested. Can’t see why they make such a big fuss over it.
We went to the Singapore Swimming club for lunch and then went on to the IMM Mall for some last minute shopping for the wife.
August 10, 2006
Today we leave Singapore. Booked on the night flight on BA016. Really looking forward to our home in Welwyn Garden City. Wonder how the garden has turned out with the lack of rain for the past few weeks. The bird feeders would all be empty and the poor garden birds will have all left. One of the first things that has to be done will be to top up the feeders. Then there are the fruit trees. Hope they are all OK. Looking forward to the fruits from the 3 plum trees. They should be just ripening around this time of the year.
My next post will be from UK.
Tuesday, August 01, 2006
Singapore customs officer at Causeway
Returning from JB last night after a day of shopping, I was at the Singaporean customs area where they check the vehicles. It is a standard practice that all vehicles entering Singapore must undergo a visual inspection by the Singaporean authority. When it was my turn for this inspection, I got out and open the boot of the car. The boot was full of bags of shopping and various kinds of fruits. The usual type of questions asked are, "do you have any cigarettes? do you have any drinks, meaning beer, spirits or wine?" My answer has always been "No, I do not drink or smoke".
Last night was somewhat different. None of the usual questions were asked. Instead this customs officer, with his unsmiling face looked at me and poked around the boot. The conversation went like this,
"What have you got in the boot?"
"Some shopping for food and fruits in JB"
More poking around, opening up bags and digging deeper into the pile of shopping bags.
"You got meat?"
"No, I do not have any meat in my shopping bags".
He reached into a bag containing a few sachets of curry powder and came up with a pack that says, "For meat curry". He held this up in infront of my face, almost shoving it up my nose, pointing to the word "meat", and said.
"You have meat, SEE?"
"No, it does not contain meat, it is for cooking meat, it does not have meat in it at the moment".
"It is meat, it is here on the packet".
"It is curry powder, no meat". I said.
Looked at me to see if I was shivering with fright. I was not, but quite amused by this ignorant twit.
Grudgingly he threw the pack back into the bag and poked around a quite a lot more, obviously still not satisfied that he did not find anything. I could see he was out to catch me on something and because he did not find anything he was quite unhappy. Stared at me a little more to see if he could detect any guilty twitch. I smile back and muttered under my breath, "have your fun, you ignorant bast***. With a wave of his hand as if to dismiss a slave, he indicate that I could close the boot. With that he just strode off.
Well, if he had bothered to look into the car, on the back seat I had 500 cartons of cigarettes, 100 bottles of bootleg liquor, 250 live chickens, 50 pigs, 45 cows, 300 sheep and a partridge on a pear tree.
What an experience !!!
Last night was somewhat different. None of the usual questions were asked. Instead this customs officer, with his unsmiling face looked at me and poked around the boot. The conversation went like this,
"What have you got in the boot?"
"Some shopping for food and fruits in JB"
More poking around, opening up bags and digging deeper into the pile of shopping bags.
"You got meat?"
"No, I do not have any meat in my shopping bags".
He reached into a bag containing a few sachets of curry powder and came up with a pack that says, "For meat curry". He held this up in infront of my face, almost shoving it up my nose, pointing to the word "meat", and said.
"You have meat, SEE?"
"No, it does not contain meat, it is for cooking meat, it does not have meat in it at the moment".
"It is meat, it is here on the packet".
"It is curry powder, no meat". I said.
Looked at me to see if I was shivering with fright. I was not, but quite amused by this ignorant twit.
Grudgingly he threw the pack back into the bag and poked around a quite a lot more, obviously still not satisfied that he did not find anything. I could see he was out to catch me on something and because he did not find anything he was quite unhappy. Stared at me a little more to see if he could detect any guilty twitch. I smile back and muttered under my breath, "have your fun, you ignorant bast***. With a wave of his hand as if to dismiss a slave, he indicate that I could close the boot. With that he just strode off.
Well, if he had bothered to look into the car, on the back seat I had 500 cartons of cigarettes, 100 bottles of bootleg liquor, 250 live chickens, 50 pigs, 45 cows, 300 sheep and a partridge on a pear tree.
What an experience !!!
Monday, July 31, 2006
Johor Baru - Malaysia
Just returned from a day trip to one of my favorite places - Johor Baru or JB to the locals. It is just over the causeway from Singapore. Visited our place in Saleng about 30 Km north of JB, which is about 3 Km from Senai Airport. As usual there were a few utility bills to pay and after that we proceeded to Giant Superstore for our shopping. The place was packed as it was a public holiday in Malaysia. The two things the Malaysians like best are to eat and shop. There were children everywhere. Finally all the shopping was done and paid for. The whole lot of shopping only came to RM345 ( approx. 50 GBP ).
We then proceeded to Holiday Inn Plaza another shopping complex. Here we visited out opthalmetrist who fitted a set of new lenses to my broken sunglasses. Dianne my wife had her eyes tested had a new pair of reading glasses prescribed. Total bill came RM100. I bought a few hooky DVD from here at RM6 a piece. Due to the clamp down on pirated DVD, transactions of such DVD had to be behind closed doors. I am glad to see that the price of prirated DVDs have come down due to lesser demand.
At 2 pm we went to Jusco shopping mall at Terbau. Dianne had her hair washed and cut and I just walked around soaking in as much of Malaysia as possible before I had to return to Singapore. Had a drink at my usual Starbucks and at 7.00 pm we returned to Singapore.
It was a good day out of Singapore and I am now in possession of a 2 week Singaporean visa which will allow me to stay here until I leave for London on August 10. Looking forward to leaving Singapore.
We then proceeded to Holiday Inn Plaza another shopping complex. Here we visited out opthalmetrist who fitted a set of new lenses to my broken sunglasses. Dianne my wife had her eyes tested had a new pair of reading glasses prescribed. Total bill came RM100. I bought a few hooky DVD from here at RM6 a piece. Due to the clamp down on pirated DVD, transactions of such DVD had to be behind closed doors. I am glad to see that the price of prirated DVDs have come down due to lesser demand.
At 2 pm we went to Jusco shopping mall at Terbau. Dianne had her hair washed and cut and I just walked around soaking in as much of Malaysia as possible before I had to return to Singapore. Had a drink at my usual Starbucks and at 7.00 pm we returned to Singapore.
It was a good day out of Singapore and I am now in possession of a 2 week Singaporean visa which will allow me to stay here until I leave for London on August 10. Looking forward to leaving Singapore.
Thursday, July 27, 2006
Leaving Singapore
Leaving Singapore again in two weeks time. Looking forward to returning to UK and the long warm summer days. I must say I have no regrets leaving Singapore. Two and a half months in this place is just about as much as I can take. The country as a whole is not too bad. It is clean, tidy and orderly. The only downside about the whole place is the people. Singaporeans are certainly not the kind of people I like to be with for too long.
UK has been experiencing some extremely hot weather recently. I understand that there is a hosepipe ban in place. The lawn will certainly be scotched and dry. I hope the fruit trees have survived. Actually I am looking forward to the succulent fruits from the three plum trees I have in the garden.
Another concern of mine is the 100 bottles of wine I have stored in one of the bedrooms upstairs. I hope the hot weather has not damaged them. Wish I had a cool cellar for wine storage in my house.
The next two weeks will be quite busy with last minute dinners or lunches with friends and relatives. I have already put on a few extra kilos during to cruise and trip to KL, so I am dreading this two weeks of more dining out. Must seriously consider a diet and exercise regime when I get to UK.
Between now and our departure to UK we have to make a trip to JB for my Singapore visa extension. I do not mind the day trip to JB. Always enjoy my one day away from Singapore. As I have often said, it is like a breath of fresh air.
UK has been experiencing some extremely hot weather recently. I understand that there is a hosepipe ban in place. The lawn will certainly be scotched and dry. I hope the fruit trees have survived. Actually I am looking forward to the succulent fruits from the three plum trees I have in the garden.
Another concern of mine is the 100 bottles of wine I have stored in one of the bedrooms upstairs. I hope the hot weather has not damaged them. Wish I had a cool cellar for wine storage in my house.
The next two weeks will be quite busy with last minute dinners or lunches with friends and relatives. I have already put on a few extra kilos during to cruise and trip to KL, so I am dreading this two weeks of more dining out. Must seriously consider a diet and exercise regime when I get to UK.
Between now and our departure to UK we have to make a trip to JB for my Singapore visa extension. I do not mind the day trip to JB. Always enjoy my one day away from Singapore. As I have often said, it is like a breath of fresh air.
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