Dive Cow

Maldives Dive Trip 22 July to 30 July 2006 Part 1

2006-10-01T14:06:00.000+08:00

Have been pondering how to go about starting this post since I came back. In between work and work again, I realised the best and fastest way is probably do on a day to day basis. So shall cover the first 3 days first!

22 July 2006 6pm- Arrival at Terminal 2 Changi Airport. Arrived and was probably the first few to reach. Excitment was the word of the day. Cant wait to get on the plane so that I can be on the way to one of the greatest dive escapades on the Blue Planet.

"Which Flight am I on?Hmm?"

Matter of minutes before everyone started to arrive at the airport. Soon the amount of dive gear that we were going to bring started to look like we were going to bring our lives to Maldives. Never fails to create a scene at the airport. From young children to elderly folks, they will always wonder who were these pple and with the big bags.

Check in was always the hassle part. From co-ordinating the group to actually move the bags to convincing the lady at the check in counter that we were still within the baggage limit was a worthy challenge.

"take your pick, humans or dive gear?"

Check in was probz the most troublesome part of the whole trip. After which, some idling around the cafe area for a quick dinner ( made the wise choice of a huge pizza and beer with Andy) and before we knew it, we were being called over the intercom to check in ( Ladies and Gentlemen, that meant the final call for us) Never knew that Gate 60 was that far away (haha...should have known better. Why did I opt for another beer??)

Plane ride was a breeze and before we knew it, we arrive at Male International Airport at Huhule. Tired but think the group was still of lively chatting and non stop bickering (as usual) Custom was a breeze and just a quick note for those that has never been to Maldives. Absolutely no alcohol is allowed to be brought in Maldives even though it is meant for personal consumption.

In Maldives, since there are like hundreds of isles around, you would have to use one of their water taxis to get around. So after hooking up with our guide from the hotel, we were directed to one of these taxis. Commonly known as a dhoni, it was pretty spacious and comfortable for everyone. We needed to cross the channel to reach the main town island of Male, the heartbeat of Maldives

"Eugene and James spacing out"

Night's accomodation was at this place called Central Hotel. Supposedly to be one of the better hotels around in Male, it had a pretty simple set up but dont think anyone would be complaining about it. Everyone was too busy trying to catch either a drink or a smoke to be bothered by anything. Last minute was done and everyone pretty much crashed for the night

23 July 2006 8am: Woke up to the following view. Pple often complain and say that we are living in a place where we are so close to each other. Look at the following picture and think twice. Thank you HDB for doing a good job!

The streets were very narrow and buildings were basically next to each other. You could say hi to your next block neighbour every morning!

"morning XXX, hows it going? Ohh..your brand of tooth paste is same as mine!"

Its that close..Not shit. But having said that, its really amazing how friendly these pple are. Not too sure how English is being taught (whether it is their first language or second language) but they are pretty conversant in English.

Breakfast was a simple affair and met up with Stefan who was from the Netherlands. Gang was still having their breakkie so took a brisk walk around to see the surrounding. Guess the population of Maldives are similar to me. Lazy to start the Sunday Morning and many of them were probably still at home, lazing in bed with a book or trying to get the mind to work after a week's work.

Once everything was loaded up onto the lorry, we were on our way! But for those who think that was an easy task, check out the amount of gear that we brought!

This is just HALF of the total amount of equipment. Astonished?Nah, its HARDCORE diving and not many pple can understand.

Why would anyone spend so much on diving?Why would anyone go the distance just to dive?

Its not easy to understand and only takes a person that is hooked onto diving to understand. It's like a long term drug, and it never ends. You can try to avoid it but it will eventually come back to haunt you.

Ride was a short and pleasant trip to the jetty where we were greeted with a posse of boats ranging from the simple dhoni to the Coast Guard cruisers. Given the backdrop of the mosque and boats, it does present a tranquil scenery to those that were there. (Not that they really cared, everyone were more concerned with the dive gears and taking pictures for memories)

On the dive boat (which is purely meant for diving. our living quarters were on a separate boat), we were all high from anticipation of the days ahead of us. Some of us were being on a liveaboard for the first time, some had never even gone past 20 dives and some of us were just dying to get back into breathing underwater. Managed to snatch a few moments of silence at the bow of the boat and just to stare at the blue of the ocean. Sometimes a person forgets that being alone with nature and being able to connect with it. How comforting and relaxing the deep blue ocean can be. Never realised how much I missed the sea and how tranquil it is. The confused soul needs such a environment to heal which at times we forget how important it is.

Before long, we arrived at the floating hotel that we will be calling home for 1 week.

A 100 foot boat, it has the full works ranging from fully air conditioned room with ensuite to a 4 person jaccuzi to a fully equipped lounge area. This is what I call a live on aboard to die for!

After spending a couple of hours to settle down and unpack the dive gear, we were finally ready to start diving. First of course was to get acquainted with our dive guides Husen and Stefan who will be our GPS in Maldives.

Checkout dive was a simple relaxing dive. More to let everyone get their diving habits back, to get familiar with the equipment, tuing the buoyancy and of course to start falling in love with Maldives. Corals aint that great after the El Nino and you can see the bleaching effect done onto the corals. But having said all that, the marine life was really fantastic and full of action. Even though it was just a calm and simple dive, we could see that the dives ahead of us were going to be awesome and action packed.

Evening was an easy evening. Some chose to laze in the jacuzzi with some beers, others opt to just kick back with a book to catch up on reading. Me?I opted to catch a few shots with my camera to just capture it all.

Thats life isnt it?To sit area with friends that can relate to each other and share life experiences' and learn from each other. Over the soft evening breeze and with all the troubles left behind. Miss those days especially now.

Look out for the next posting of my thoughts on Maldives. Might sound a bit depressing now. Probably in line with my mood.

Who can understand how the brain and heart thinks?

2006-09-23T22:09:00.000+08:00

Long time since I last wrote in this blog. Long overdue update on what has been happening in my life. Well, writing this on a saturday just about sums it up. Brain dead and devoid of any mood to party, I would rather just stay at home to recuperate and enjoy the tube.

Had a great trip to Maldives back in July for my annual long diving trip. (8D7N). Culture wise, they are laid back and very friendly. Husen(our dive guide) was an excellent host with his humour and great service. Was praying real hard to see Mr Wally the whale shark but alas, did not have the luck or fate to see it. Otherwise, it was insane diving with mantas, maboulas,white/blacktip and grey reef sharks etc etc. You name it, they have it there. The gang was great company and had numerous occasions where I had to massage my stomach to prevent it from cramping.

Really miss the tranquility of diving. Where I can be away from work and stuff and where the handphone is basically just my alarm clock.

Which actually brings about the title of this entry. Who can actually understand how the brain and heart thinks? What the brain wants need not necessary be what the heart cries for.
You might desire something or badly want to get it but the brain somehow holds back your choice.
Logic vs emotions. Which is the stronger factor that affects a decision? Am sure this would start a debate among many pple. But having the heart or brain rule your decision, which will be the better outcome? The brain tends to be more logical and as such, the outcome would be more predictable and "safer" But would it be the best choice? Would one be happier with the decision? On the other side of the coin, decisions made by the heart would be probably what the person wants to see happen but would go through a emotional roller coaster ride. At the end of it all, having gone through all these, would the decision still be a good one?

Whats the worst thing among such decisions? You never know if you made a right decision. You only assume that you have done correctly and only thing is to move forward and not look back in regret.

Watch out for my post! Will have the full details on my trip to Maldives!

Progression and other things

2006-05-06T11:36:00.000+08:00

Recently had a talk with some colleagues and realised one thing. Have moved on to a calmer me. Believe it or not, I have done that. Perhaps it comes with the job of being in the service line. Having patience with pple you will just loathe to meet, being rewarded by a smile from happy clients or just enjoying what you are doing.

Oh ya, to this colleague of mine that was originally from the same industry as me, learning to withhold yourself and not being too aggressive would help you in the long run. I think this probably is a culture that most of the pple in my ex industry would have. Being supressed for too long and being sheltered from the true corporate world, one would be slightly too single tracked (comes with the job) and miss out on some facts of how one should present yourself. Learnt it the hard way and dont like it a single bit. So if she happens to read this, rem what I told you before ya? You may not like it but just push on. You can break the barrier.

Looking forward to Maldives that is coming up in July. Cant wait to dive in the deep deep blue ocean again and just sit on the deck to read a book and have a cuppa. Away from the stressful lifestyle that I have right now and do something really different for 2 weeks. Oh to my very good fren Veria, so sorry you cant go along. Would have been great to finally dive with you but no worries, will arrange one in May!

Pray hard for me ya guys?Wanna see the following very badly:

For those that are wondering what this is, the largest living fish in the world known as Rhincodon typus or commonly known as the whale shark. Feeds on planktons and pose no threat to humans in any way. So by the way if you like to eat shark fin's, do reconsider that choice of yours. How would you like it if I cut off your cartiledge from your knee and add it to a soup? Do you think your knee has any nutritional value?Think about it.

Oh ya ! One last thing. Congratulations to my best friend of 2 decades Mr Tan Hong Liang on your coming marriage! Really congrats to you and very happy that you asked me to be your best man. But please do take note of the disclaimer: If no one is going to make it fun for you, then I will. =)

To my next posting, Cheers everyone!

Where performance does not count for nuts

2006-03-02T20:28:00.000+08:00

Interesting title eh? Ya I agree. Where performance does not count. If Party A vs Party B and one chooses B over A due to some apparent "EXPERIENCE" which does not seem to be really accurate ( A dont consider doing servicing to be related to sales), what will A feel? hmm..
And what if the boss of A and B tell A over the phone the decision instead of face to face? How will A feel? Some pple can say " Aww...Bad luck ya?" some will say " Live with the decision!Move on with it! You can do it!"
Sorry to say, Total crap can. Never stop a on rushing car, never drain a galloping horse of its energy. You feed it not stop it. Get what I mean? You want top performance? Pump in high octane fuel. let the engine of the car do the rest. Why throw nails on the floor with bad manners and stop the car that is in full flight?
Hurt, disappointed and demoralised. How does one get himself up again? I wonder too...How would I go about advising Party A then?hmmm.....

Memoirs from Aussie reservist and start of new career

2005-12-07T19:59:00.000+08:00

Yes yes..its slightly overdue and I have not been updating my blog. As such, with the rare time that I have I shall now update whatever I can for the benefit for everyone. (Not that anyone cares rite?)

Australia was a mixed experience. On the good side, it was my first time in a Bde exercise. A non-stop, sleep deprivation exercise that went on for 4 days 3 nights. (Yes I am not kidding. I didnt even had it so tough during NSF time). Bad side was that there were many aspects of the exercise which I felt were not prepared properly. Oh well, as expected.

Another plus point was that managed to get to meet more pple and bonded really well with a couple of them. One of them..is...no...other...than.....JUSTIN!haha

Anyway am back in Singapore and kicking. Started on my new job and can say that it has been one hell of a ride. Learning the ropes of a new job isnt easy and getting the required licenses is even more challenging. Finally am over that phase and can concentrate on "fighting" war each day instead of having to worry about not passing the papers. Never realised that being so far away from books takes so much time to get back in the groove to study and achieve the results required. Too much pressure from work and stress from having to pass them in the shortest time is really mentally demanding.

Colleagues have been really supportive as this is a career change for me. Learnt from everyone and have to thank everyone for their support and assistance. Okay thats abt all. Shall put in the pictures the next time rd ya?

Back from Phuket and Off to Australia!

2005-10-27T00:15:00.000+08:00

Matter of hours before I fly off to Rockhampton for my reservist training! Cant believe after so long it is finally here. But firstly, things have been happening during this 2 weeks of my self proclaimed soul searching time (Aka Laze around time)

Phuket Trip and Review

Day 1:
Phuket was the place and flying is the game. Turned out that Christina was flying off to HK and met Kit and her at Terminal 2 for a very healthy breakkie of bacon and coffee. ( Who am I kidding. Its super healthy ya!)

Arrived at Phuket International Airport and was greeted by the staff who then guided us to the LIMO. (Yes! Mercedes E200 considered as Limo okay!) Destination: Treetops Arasia!

" What did this asshole bring to Thailand!!!"

As you can see, they had difficulty carrying my stuff. Due to my insistence to bring my own diving gear, I managed to fill the boot to the brim and make those guys work out their muscles! ( I distinctly noted a sour look from the guy in white. Think he didnt like the idea of a early morning gym session)

After proceeding to the lounge area to sign in my room, we were ushered to the place which we were going to call hoome for the next 4 days. Maybe its me but I was like a little boy, hopping around to take pictures (well walking briskly might be a better word) and meanwhile the nice lady was trying to show us to our room. Oh did I mention?I almost knocked over the porter while doing my Photograph Dance of the Tom Yam Chicken

" Ladies n Gentlemen, Surin Beach!"

Quite a sigh I have to admit. Clear blue sea and u somehow just picture yourself in a semi paradise environment. The trees give the place a very rustic and charming aura which will definitely make anyone relax and look forward to subsequent few days

The villa which we had was by far the best place I have stayed in since 1979. ( stop calculating. That was the year I was born). A picture speaks a thousand words so I shall let you see 4 thousand words

" The calm before the storm...HEHEHE"

"Hmm..where will this path lead me to, Frodo?"

"We did it! We found the Bathtub of Life!"

" Okie, after you apply facial foam to your face, you should always rem to make a dash for the outdoor shower to rinse it off"

After marking my territory ( which equates to making a huge mess of the place and making it look like my room back in Singapore), we proceed to experience the true localised Tom Yam food. ( Not that I really wanted to, was under duress from a nutty gal). Had so many tom yam stuff that I decided at that moment in time, it was essential and crucial to the enjoyment for the whole trip that I return to the hotel to.....

Visit the washroom to take a dump. Hot man.

Returned to the village area after 15 mins of ferocious battle with my bowels. Turned out that the place was really devoid of tourists which was good for me as I didnt really like to go to places that were too packed. This about sums up the day for me haha. (Actually its cause I really did nothing for the rest of the day except read Tom Clancy and drink a lot of Heineken)

Day 2:

Diving was the agenda for the day. Reached Chalong Jetty at 8 am and hooked up with Lisa from Calyspo to board the boat that was going to take us to Racha Noi. Met this instr from Mexico called Ramon ( Made me recall the WWF wrestler called Razor Ramon! He could have rattled off like this :"Eh Mon, whats your problem?You want me to RAZOR you?" I would have asked for his autograph man!) Apparently he has been diving for like eternity and there was this place near his home town of Cancun called Holbox which offers a mere mortal the chance to dive with approx 100 whale sharks at one time during July. For non divers out there, it will probably be asking you to drive a Proton Kechil and wriggle your way out of 100 odd bendy buses in the middle of Orchard Road. Go figure.

Anyway back to diving in Phuket. Didnt really see much except for the barracudas and the shrimps which we found on the small broken wreck. They were like literally covering every possible spot on the wreck and was really great to find so many at one place. Maybe some one should tell them to set up a Neighbourhood Police Post to look out for predators.

Oh ya. The only shot I took turned out to be one of the best that I had taken in ages.

"Sunset, Sunset. Make way for the Moonrise "

Reached back the villa at abt 10pm and had cup of noodles for dinner. Yesh, its unbelievable but true. Cows actually eat cup of noodles.

Day 3:
The day of reckoning has finally arrived for the trip. Can I survive 4 hrs of non stop Patong Beach shopping? Can I out bargain , out walk and out eat the locals at Patong beach! The adventure started with a slow Tu Tu car ride to Patong Beach. My heart was pounding harder and harder with each passing minute. What if I get too tired from standing and waiting and collapse to the ground? Would my pleas for beer be ignored??

Thankfully, the weather turned out to be a killer and at a scorching temperature of 32 degrees, there is only that much a person can do:

1. Have roadside milk tea which is quite insanely good stuff
2. Have 270 baht worth of thai food and coconuts
3. Walk abt the whole of Patong and including the new Patong Stop shopping centre

This place is really HUGE. I never been to Bangkok to that famous CHA DU CHAK thing but this place pretty took out the wind from my sails. Till this very date, I hold true to what I have always said: I rather run a half marathon than go shopping.

But it ended well and was soaking in the jacuzzi, reading my Tom Clancy and enjoying cold Heineken by 4 pm. Had a dinner at this place called Silk Restaurant which was about 2 mins from our hotel and had a wonderful time trying out their version of soft shell crabs and drinking cocktails that didnt really taste that nice.

Day 4: Had a late checkout so pretty much lazed around the villa, the beach area for lunch and a short nap at the lounge area before heading for Phuket International Airport. And at this point, let me pose to you guys an interesting question. Ever got lost at an airport and wonder where is your gate for your flight back to Singapore? Trick is to dig your ears and note where a very loud and non stop chatter is coming from. 70% would be Singaporeans making a big woo ha and you will never be lost. Trust me, it works.

Next stop. Ex Wallaby! Wonder how it would be. Never been there for training before and shall be a virgin experience for me. Looking forward to fish and chips, cheap beer and non stop pulsating Tai Di at night. Meanwhile, take care ya!

2 months of Non Blogging. Back with a vengenace

2005-10-04T15:24:00.000+08:00

Alo alo!
The Cow is back and things have been moving!

1. Tender moments
Tender moments?Whats that??Yes for your information, this coming friday is my last day!
Some might find it shocking. Some say its long overdue. Whatever you say its my last day!
Which at this point in time, I must say this esp to a monkey that stays near me:-
HAHAH 33 DOLLARS?!?!?! My god, you work part time at wedding banquets also earn more man! For those that want to know more, read it all here!

2. Dinner and Dance 2005
The last dinner and dance for me. Wasnt as crazy as last year. Booze was still there, food was still there but just wasnt as fun this year. Could be due to the fact that I am leaving and that two good frens are flying to USA in Nov. Sad man

Apparently, it was reported that a monkey, a wuzz, a shortie and a cow was tearing that night. It had caused such a commotion that everyone started to do the same. Talk abt Domino Effect.

Night passed pretty quickly. Before I knew it, it was over. No top prize of Las Vegas for me. Darn it. Every year i sit there with my Hennessy and wait and wait. It never shows my number. Maybe I shld not bother with it any more.
Wait. I dun have a chance any more. haha
Oh well, thats out the window.

"Counselling Group got so small ar?"

Another thing which I noted as I swirl the last cup of Hennessy ( We are talking 6 beers, 5 white wines, 5 johnny walker on soda and 4 hennessy here folks. Round of appalause please!), not many people puked!
As compare to last year when we had the Livia"I love the culture so I puke at the piano" Lim, this year we had nothing! Huh?Alo pple! Wake up and smell the air!PArty HARD and work hard..Not just work hard ya!

Had hokkien mee for supper and just crashed man. Tired out. Woke up to a BEAUTIFUL sight. Check this out!

haha..Nice eh. View from 51-71 at Swissotel the Stamford. mind blowing view of the two durians.

3. Phuket trip/Diving

Flying off to Phuket on sunday for a spot of diving, massage and relaxation. YUPZ...got this deal at Natas where I can go Phuket to stay in a villa with own jacuzzi....All rite baby!Jazz it up!Total of 4D3 night, promises of tom yam chicken and slurrping of CHANG beer ( I hate everton). Stay tuned for the pics!

Lastly, to the monkey:- HAHAHAHHA

Hitchhiker's Guide to Everyday Survival Part 1

2005-08-16T20:48:00.000+08:00

Work. Who likes to? Pui...But then, everyday we are like little mices scampering around, scouring for food at fixed intervals and running on treadmills to keep ourselves fit (May it be the name of a place on the west coast of USA or the other name for our earth)

As such, I have taken the liberty to create a Hitchhiker's Guide to Everyday Survival. Sure it wont earn as much as the original book or have a spin off like Harry Porter. But hey, not everyone are equipped with the skills to survive

Rule No: 227 - Always have a bunch of frens to bitch with in office. Yupz. U read it right. Have a circle of trust. Preferably a small group of 6 at most. Why six?Cause in case one betray what you guys say, 4 can hold him and you can bash him at ur own pace. We aint getting younger rite? So this would not only save you from chasing and running, you would have time to aim your punch. Woohoo

Rule No: 335- Always have a early lunch. Saves you abt 10 mins of waiting for a table, 15 mins for queuing and rushing to finish it in 10 mins because of all the incessant staring from office aunties. By the time you are done, you are pretty much wasted. By having an early lunch, you save time on both waiting and queuing which comes up to abt 20 mins. Then you can enjoy your meal slowly cause by the time pple get their food you are pretty much done. You feel good, you dun sweat that much and you cut down on swearing too. ( Maybe only in my case)

Rule No: 555- Some people don't know what is called "chopping using tissue". As such, refer to rule 335

Rule No: 677- Always take regular breaks between work. Essentially, what you are doing is you are going for a pit stop to top up fuel, change tyres and have your visor wiped. In office terms, drink a new cup of coffee, smoke a cig and wash the face. Studies (Population sample size of one) have shown that by doing so, the day passes faster and you have higher chances of meeting impt pple and score points. Some impt pple smoke too. So if you dun mind deducting a few years of your life, just light away!

Thats abt enuff for you to survive the dreaded monday. Will update on the other rules another day ya?

P/S: Thanks Bran. Owe you big time.

Tell Me Bintan Bintan Bintan- You mean Happiness to me!

2005-08-14T22:38:00.000+08:00

National Day weekend. A time for the citizens of Singapore to celebrate in joy and pompous. For a group of us, it was time to hit the beaches of Bintan. It all started with an innocent call from Esther " Got Bintan villa for 180 !You wanna go!" Of course! Who would say no to the sun, sand and sea??And esp with a grp of frens in tow, I was all ready!

Set off on Friday night and for once everyone was on time! Must be a miracle. As such, I bought 4D immediately. hahaha ( National day number. And strike starters. ahhahaha)

Anyway, the villa was at Banyu Biru and was located right next to the sea! First thing we did when we went into the villa was to tidy and wash up the place. (Actually only the men were working)

" 看什么？没看过男人抹地吗？”

To be fair, the ladies did help out too. haha...minimum though. I dun consider sitting around and chatting as help but oh well at least they kept out of our way
Meanwhile, the nice person that I am decided to make every one's fav drink: Ribena! Woohoo

I have to admit. Gym is finally paying off. My back view does look pretty good eh?=) Can bluff people that I got muscles!!
But then again, I have to praise and give credit to Faith for the shot of it. Well timed(we timed it) and good lighting on my back

As you can see in the background, the guys appear to be busy. Thats cause they were busy preparing for Brandon's signature (maybe it isnt. i also dunno) dish. Chicken in soy rice. Woohoo.
I think its human mentality. When you are hungry, you will gobble down every single grain of rice. That was what I did. And kudos to Mrs Lee (Ah James 的老妈）. The chilli sambal sauce has got to be the best and hottest(sic) I ever tasted in my life. To put it simply, you would just eat the chilli on its own just to sweat and curse.

The morning came before we knew it. Out of the 6 times I have been to Bintan, this has got to be the best and calmest sea I have seen. Flat and as clear as a mirror, it was a picture of tranquility. took this opportunity to take a quick stroll out to enjoy this moment.
Only regret that I have is that I do not have a good camera (or rather no camera) at the moment. Really inspired to get the Nikon D70 after trying out Faith's D70. Shutter speed/picture quality and focusing is a top notch.

It was also the surprise birthday party for Eugene and Esther. First couple that I know that are borned on the same day and month. Yes, believe it or not. Anyway, we threw those two off track by bluffing them that it was meant for Marcus (Kit's son) birthday. Woohoo... Am pretty sure we did a good job about it. Esther was ecstatic about her new baby blue GULL fins. After all, it seems to be her favourite colour and helps her to be one step closer to be a baby blue suited diver. (On a side note to Esther, please don't hahah)

On the whole, the trip was a great one and allowed many of us to have a good break from work.
Made me more recharged and determined to take control of my future too =)

Short Week, Fun Week

2005-08-14T21:08:00.000+08:00

National Day week! Not only was my working week shorter, but hey!Its the National 40th birthday. Was determined to catch the parade. Only part of the celebrations which I enjoy. Probz due to the fact that I was involved in the '99 Parade as one of the flag bearers. Furthermore, this year was at the Padang. Kinda of a retro feel to it.

This month also marks the start of training month for me. More significantly, it means that I have been in the firm for 2 years. Some call it a long time, some say its still early in the career and I should stay around and gain more experience. Ha!I dunno man. Its now or never.

Attended April and Chee Leong's House warming over the weekend. Located at Blue Horizon, their apartment over looks the RSYC. WOw..and i do mean wow. For those ill -informed, there is a boat owned by Shaw Brothers and we are talking HUGE. It is basically a luxury liner hiding in the mould of a boat. With jet ski and the leather seats on the stern area, it is something everyone dreams of having.

Recap of brunei

2005-08-11T00:04:00.000+08:00

Only realised that I haven been writing in my blog for donkey years when Eugene told me why I never update my blog. Ha!Okay man..FOr my loyal supporter I shall update the rest of my species (Eg: Beer Guzzlers, Soccer Fanatics and Babe Watchers) on what had the highlight for me

Well the last week of Brunei was relatively manageable. Had to rush out a few things and even had to work a bit at night. Gasp!Yes...I had to work in the hotel room. Just mindless stuff like casting and agreeing stuff. My manager, TA flew in on a Wednesday to check on our work and to have a "tea session" with the client. This guy should be the model for most other managers I know. Witty, able to mix around with lower staff and yet has very knowlegdable mind which I dare say not many pple can match.(Cigs Fan too. Very impt)

Anyway, it was a ball of time for three of us. Although I must admit, I did miss home now and then (Home referring to soccer, the beer and the babes) but it was quite an enjoyable meal the night before our departure back home. Sat ard the sushi bar at our fav Jap restuarant at Bandar called Escapade Sushi and whack all the Jap Food that we can think of. The result?Three stuffed turkeys that could barely move an inch.

Was checking out from the hotel when I spotted this picture. Ladies and Gentlemen, check out the guest of my "home" for the past 2 weeks

" Good Morning Sir!"

Yes yes!Its Bill Clinton!Wow...didnt know that he stayed here too!Maybe I should drop him a mail and ask his opinion on the hotel's laundry system. They have a knack for losing clothes or destroying them. I am the proud loser of one undergarment, one pair of socks and one spoiled adidas singlet.

Had a drink at a cafe at the airport before flying back to Singapore. Incredibly, there were a lot of pple at the airport. Makes you wonder: Where have all these pple been for the past 2 weeks I was there? Hiding? Okie enuff mindless ramblings. Check out the name of the cafe!

"What name should we give the cafe?"
Come on!We can do better than that rite! Maybe Planar Coffee or Takeoff Cafe. Something more creative ya?

Flight back was on Silkair. Having always been a strong critic for good service, I must say the serivce rendered to us were top notch. Not to mention that the new uniform for Silkair was very cheerful and makes ur mind wander off alot. Shall shuddup now. hahaa....

The good thing to come out from all these is that well it gives me time to look at things from many perspectives. On trying to get into a job which I really want since I left NTU, on trying to make best of the current situation which I have and to what extent would I go (or rather how low would I go ) to achieve it. Another thing which made me ponder abt was what are my peers thinking? Do I stay and succumb to the passage which our ancestors have taken or do I go against the flow and create a new passage way for myself?hmm...choices choices. We are always faced with one. Where is a soothsayer when u need one!

Watch out for my update on my recently concluded Bintan trip!

Chillin' out on a Friday Night at Empire, Brunei

2005-07-23T18:32:00.000+08:00

After a short ( worked only abt 6 hrs. Dun ask me why. just following the client's working hours) but yet hectic day, we were invited to spend the evening over a game of badminton and gym at the Empire. For those that are not informed about the empire, check out the website!
http://www.empire.com.bn/index_main.htm

Just a short 15 mins drive away from our hotel, we went on a tour of Jerudong area before heading towards the country club resort

"Should we go straight or turn right?"

From what I understand, Jerudong Park is the amusement park of Brunei which the Sultan built for his people. Hands down, it has got to be like the biggest amusement park so far. Maybe comparable to Seaworld? Covers a huge land area and with rides of all kind for the family. Sad to say, not many pple visit it as it was empty when we drove by it.

"Lagi POwer.."

Headed for the Empire and was greeted by the guard at the guardhouse. haha..they only seem to smile at us. Didnt even care what we were there for. Went for a short tour and AM VERY IMPRESSED by the place. Beautiful structures every where that includes cinemas, restuarants, lakes etc. Smiling staff greet you every where you go and makes you really feel at home.

Headed for the badminton to meet Stuart who is Sylvia's hubbie. Nice bloke and we immed warmed up to him. Never realised how rusty (read: sug) at badminton. Last played at SRC court back in university days. Had a fun time passing criticism at HL and receiving it from him. After which, had a short workout at ala "Planet" Empire. Well equipped gym i must say.

After a good work out, proceeded on to have seafood buffet dinner.YUMZ. stopped by to take a few shots. Sad to say, I behaved like a typical Singapore tourist. "HL, take photo leh. Sueh leh!"
(translation for Sueh= Pretty). But hey, how often would i get to come here? Must make full use of the opportunity!

On a side note: Must comment that effort has been put into doing up the place. check out the evening shot of the hotel rooms. What a sight!

Lost for choice during dinner. Opted to go for a little of each but a lot of oysters. Not too bad, but up to this day, I cannot forget abt the osyters that I had at Hobart, Tazmania. Place is called Bavillra's Oysters and they sell it at AUD6.5 per dozen. Fresh, straight out from the oyster farm they have at the back of the shop. Heavenly as Shumin would put it! But nevertheless, still had a good time tucking in the seafood and desserts which had a pretty good spread.

"Leaning Tower of Prawns, Empire Buffet"
Overall, it had been an wonderful evening and wonderful hosts which entertained us with stories and personal experiences. Headed back to Orchid Gardens with HL to rest for the night and prepare for a weekend of work (a bit only), food (buffet again???) and hopefully a tad of shopping!

Brunei part 2

2005-07-21T19:24:00.000+08:00

Been an exciting week (who am i kidding) for me.

Work has been relatively easy for me. Just securities and some other stuff. Pretty easy peasy stuff.

We had a staff from bandar office attached to us. A lovely lady called Sylvia who has been working for past 7 odd years at KB office in Brunei. Great to chat with and of course..our guide to Brunei

Food has exceed my expectations so far. Pleasantly surprised by the array of food Brunei has to offer. Had Japanese lunch on Tuesday for lunch. I must admit. The quality was excellent. Thick slices of sashimi, a great dish called tempura crab that had crab meat in it and it only costed 36 dollars. Great!!

As you can see, they use a small little train that was going at a speed so fast that u only had like 1 sec to see what u wanted. But hey!at that prices, anything was good.

So far, pace has been really slow which is good for me. Allows me to relax abit, enjoy good food and company and see the other side of Brunei. Going to Empire which is their biggest and most luxurious resort in Bandar to have a look around and Gadong for a spot of shopping. The only thing me and HL miss here is the clubbing. haha..so bad so that HL intends to club on the night we return to Singapore. Am also toying with that idea. Need some BEER =)

Okay!going to catch some friends...watch this space for up date on my Brunei adventure!

Location: Brunei. TOUCHDOWN!

2005-07-17T20:38:00.000+08:00

Arrived at airport in the late morning with two blood shot eyes and low morale. The overcasted sky reflected my mood. The day has finally arrived. Time to fly to Brunei for work. This project is going to take up approx 2.5 weeks and take me away from friends and family.

Dun have much of an impression of Brunei. Only been here once for Jungle training back in army days but that pretty much sums up my knowledge of the place (and of course Temburong Jungle for those pple that know what I am talking about). Met my colleague that was going to be my only source of conversation and wandered around Terminal 2. Kudos to the pple that maintain the airport. After all these years, it is still clean, efficient and the high level of service one would expect from an international hub.

1340- I know that I am big sized but the seats are really small. Settled down into my seat and started to talk cock to HL again. haha..We both agreed that we have to be innovative in entertaining ourselves. I never realised that the Sultan of Brunei was so charismatic. A real man I would say.

1600hrs- Finally cleared customs and am on my way to Orchid Gardens Hotel. The taxi driver tot we tourists from China i think. Tried to bluff us that 2km ride to hotel would cost 20 bucks!!!
Lucky i told him in my limited melayu that we were on business trip for his govt agency. haha...so 15 bucks was the final price. A very princely amount considering that with that amount, you can probz travel from Woodlands to Orchard but we were too tired to bargain any further.

1700- After some mix up, we are finally shown to our rooms. Took some pics for you guys to have a look at my lodgings for the next 2.5 weeks

On the whole, the hotel aint that bad. Just that it is in an obscure place thats all. Realised that the national stadium was right next to us. Maybe we can train there for inter CPA soccer?Hmm..

The maintenance guys came up to our rooms and set up the network for us in our rooms. Also very expensive (98 a week). Why is every thing so expensive here!! Cannot believe it. But after all the set up, it looked very familiar to me. Shall not say any more and as they say, a picture says a thousand words.

Looks distinctively like an audit room. Shit man. hahaha..

Another discovery for the day was that over here in Brunei, they also know what is called Ma Ma tiam.

Excerpts from the conversation between HL and hotel manager:

HL: Hi there, are there any supermarket near by?

Mgr: There isn't but there is a small Indian shop thing if u exit the hotel and turn right.

HL: Indian Shop?You mean Ma Ma Tiam ar?

Mgr: Ya!Ma Ma Tiam

Wow. Same lingo man.

Wanted to try our luck at the super market and get some drinks (one bottle of mineral costs 4.40 in the hotel. Faintz). well, the weather here decided to replicate that of Singapore and was very gloomy and there was a slight drizzle. Oh heck, took a picture instead.

Went for a 6 course Chinese dinner ( didnt intended to lah.haha..just kept on ordering). Not too bad. Just a tad too salty but pretty decent stuff. Okay time to catch some British Open Golf at St Andrew's on ESPN. ( thats all i have okay.)

Look out for more of my escapades!!

1230. A life changing number of me

2005-07-13T11:12:00.000+08:00

Here I am sitting in a conference room that is as cold as a morgue and waiting for time to by pass me. Soon it will be lunch time and for all the little mice to come out and start queuing for food. Today will be an exceptional day for me. What it may turn out to be is only known by a few people. Cant wait for the minute hand to turn faster. Is it me or is it the temperature of the room tuned to the weather is Alaska?Hmm....Or is it just me getting a bout of nervous tots?Had to determined ya?

1230. Some would go buy 4D with it. Hey wait a min, I will do that!haha. Since today is Wednesday after all. Who knows ya? But what a weird number to buy though. Should I flip it around to play with the permutations? Nah. Dun really care about that. Just for the short thrill of it

Cold is bad for health. I know. Cause I am freezing and my brain cant seem to jumpstart.

1230. Can this number change my life?I hope so. Time waits for no man.

To Tim

2005-07-11T21:48:00.000+08:00

Aim for this ...Stop wasting money on ur Lancer

Brunei Trip Draws closer and closer

2005-07-11T20:55:00.000+08:00

That's right! Believe it or not! I am going to Brunei. At the mention of it, everyone would think: Reservist?!?! Well...Guess what?Its for my job. Yupz, going to enjoy a few weeks of clean air,little traffic and lotsa of time for self reflection. Going to try to maintain my fitness over there (Cross country anyone?) or swim at the hotel pool. Ya ya...sounds crazy but hey..i did that in Shenzhen..why not in Brunei rite?

So meanwhile, shall try to enjoy my week in Singapore before my plane departs to far far Brunei.

What would be a good way for a person to relax?

2005-07-05T21:53:00.000+08:00

Diving what else? Best way to relax, enjoy a one week break from work and just get in touch with the deep, blue sea. Been doing this for the past 4 years. Almost hitting my five year mark. First experienced it at Pulau Aur in Malaysia. Will never forget how I kept floating up or how I kept running low on air within 30 mins. But yet, the serenity of the sea and the beauty of the coral gardens made me fall in love with a new sport.

Advance, EFR and Rescue Diver quickly followed suit. Before I knew it, I was diving in Great Barrier Reef with some frens. One incident that happened in Oz made me decide to take up the Divemaster course. My fren had a bad reaction towards hydroid stings and although I had just finished my Rescue course a few months ago, I was apprehensive on what to do. Luckily for us all, an instructor came along and immediately brought her up.

Two years has passed.
Before I knew, I had survived numerous scenarios, endless weekends of going up to Aur and sleepy Mondays, I finally achieve my target! Yupz...I got my certification which has exposed me to different aspects of diving. From being professional in my behaviour to how to educate the divers around me, I must admit it had been an eye opening experience. Something which most people would never be able to understand unless he/she tries it. It has the weird ability to curb my hot temper as you had to remain calm and composed under all scenarios.

With the new increment and stuff, am aiming to do a bit of classy diving. Recently stumbled upon this really luxury diving in the Maldives.
http://www.fourseasons.com/maldives/vacations/special_features.html
A stunning boat which includes stunning and excellent facilities. This is what I call classy diving at its best. The price isnt really that expensive too. Just that the price of the air ticket that can be rather exorbitant. Well, thats why we have things called fantasy in this world. Motivates me to work harder so that I can dive around the world. By the way, to Val who is in USA now, you made me green with envy when u told me ur trip to Bahamas.

Going off to check out my new diving video and catch up with the gang.
Go Crazy ya pple!

Perils of Emails

2005-07-05T21:00:00.000+08:00

In the ever changing society that we are in, we use electronic mail or email in short to communicate with friends, clients and family members. However, many of us are not aware that as we use email, we usually do not check who are the people that constitute part of the receipents.
At this moment, I would like to apologise to a certain friend of mine. Didnt expect people to forward my mail and harness the current technology to digital re-edit photos.

To everyone else, just use some common sense ya?Thanks

Start of Senior Year

2005-07-04T20:26:00.000+08:00

Today marks the beginning of snr year in the firm. Wow. Time flies. Was trying to tidy up my folders when I found this picture taken during Sports Day back in '03. Foam party to round up the day's event and we were having a ball of a time.

Also found something which I wrote during peak of '05 which is as follows:-

Been a long, horrendous day at work. Sitting at the edge of the seat, one cannot help but think. What in God’s name am I doing? Audit? Is it even fit for a normal human being. Why in the first place would any one need an auditor? Could it due to Darwin’s Theory of Evolution which brought about such a change in human mindset and behavior? Are we all evolving into a society where numbers rule the day and to ensure that we are assured of the accuracy of the figures? As I am typing this, a slow and cynical smile begins to form on my lips. That’s right! Audit terms and word come naturally to me. Back to the evolution theory of mankind. What ever happened to the time when we trusted each other’s integrity and responsibility to be honest to each other? Has the letter ‘M’ caused all of us to be less trusting and more skeptical of each other?

Having the opportunity to grow up in a kampong where one can run freely and wild, it does make the heart ponder for the care free days of the past. Marbles vs Playstation. Chickens vs exotic, expensive puppies. Slow rotating overhead fan vs Darkin Air con. At this moment, it may seem amazing that how could I have written so much and yet still be considered trying to survive the audit peak. Trust me, I am equally stumped for words on how to reply that question. Life was pretty tough in the first month. Long night, nicotine infused diets and one can never forget the caressing of the warm cup of lousy coffee from the client’s pantry. Endless amounts of accounts to check, deal tickets to sort and vouch to, numerous meet the client sessions to discuss on policies and procedures. Still vividly remember that there was one occasion where I worked till 5 am in the morning. Standing outside of the client’s club house, you could have a bird’s eye view of Lau Pat Sat. As you stood there and made friends with nicotine, you can actually make several mental pictures of the people rushing home to meet their loved ones, hawkers preparing for yet another night of hustling tourists and cars being packed bumper to bumper on the road. 7pm. 9pm. 12am. 2 am. 4 am. The pictures start to get blurry and less and less complicated. An old lady pushing her cart amidst on coming traffic to get to the other side. The smell of freshly barbequed satays fill the air and make the stomach growl for a proper meal besides just nicotine.

Seriously, with a lousy pay and long hours, why bother some might say. Why would you want to work your socks of for a pay that can barely cover your housing and daily expenses? Often have I sat down in front of my laptop (Like right now) and think through this too. I guess I really do not have an answer for this.

Looking back at what i wrote, it's amazing that I survived till now. Admit am still slightly sore but what to do? If the system says you are not good enough, it means u are not good enuff. Saw a bunch of new joiners today. Full of passion and committment that is laced with a tinge of apprehensiveness. What does next week hold for them? I can still remember that feeling of not knowing what to do during the first week, having to keep myself awake after lunch. Emotions which had left me started to return to me. Best of luck to them and may their next year be less of a rollar coaster ride as compared to mine.

Lazy Sunday Afternoon

2005-07-03T17:57:00.001+08:00

After a whirlwind of events after promotion day, finally had time to sit back, enjoyed a cup of tea and recollect the past few days.

Friday Night- Had couple of Belgian Beers (okay okay 4) and mussels soaked in either white wine or tom yam for dinner at Ooster's Bar. Have to admit, it is really fantastic. As Tim will put it, "Excellent Stuff!"

Proceeded on with the bunch to Piano Bar for a round of coffee/tea/whatever we drank. It's only during these few months that I realised that the hotels in Singapore have great settings and ambience for frenz to sit around and chill out on a Friday Night.

Saturday - Had lunch with Ah john in the afternoon. Received the DVD from Kai Ching who edited our video shots/camera shots from our dive trip to Derawan back in May. One word. WOW. I mean, I know CS students are good but never though that the outcome would be THAT good. Spent like the rest of the day admiring it ( In between, watched Johnson scratch and win 100 dollars. what the hell).
Dinner was at Pan Pacific Hotel as it was wedding for Serene and Ivan. Spent most of the time talking to pple from my firm's counselling group and catching with frens that i saw at the wedding. Food wasnt as good as I expected from a hotel of that status. The only dish that I enjoyed was the dessert which was some hot water chestnut thing. Developed a sore throat and terrible headache. So concussed at 12. Wanted to play soccer the next day but guess that's out of the window.

So right now, am about to head out for a steak dinner. YUMZ. Life goes on.

Day is drawing to an end

2005-06-30T21:34:00.000+08:00

Looking at the time tick by, its almost time for me to turn in. Tomorrow is yet another day in the office. Usually people look forward to Friday. Time to party, time for a good rest over the weekend and be the "weekend warrior".

For me, its going to be a new start. As a Senior that is. But somehow, the dark shadow of not being recognised by the firm still lingers on in my mind. I just cannot get it off my mind. How do I go about inspiring the juniors around me to produce and deliver the high quality of work when in the end, they might end up in my scenario? And how do I motivate myself to follow the principles which I have set for myself to follow?

Was in Bali recently but didnt really have the fun I wanted. Partly was due to the fact that I was pondering on my career in the firm. One of the dreams that I have in life is to work overseas in places like NYC or London where all the action takes place. But after today's promotion exercise, I am having second thoughts. Do I want to be faced with such things a few years down the road?
If I choose this path, I have to be prepared to bear the consequences. Life is about decisions. One that I have to make soon.

As someone told me before, if you should drop into a hole, find a way out. It might be hard but once you get out, learn from the mistake and never fall back in again. Am climbing out of the hole. Slow it may be, and i resolve that I will never fall back in this hole again. No way will I allow myself to be subjected to such unfair treatment again.

Life is about to start afresh in terms of the financial year. My luck for the year has been horrible so far. Nothing seems to be going my way. What can I say?Bring it on life. Give me ur best shot. Cause once I get back on track, I will make sure its 100% returned to you.

2005-06-30T21:01:00.000+08:00

- Some how this photo reflects my feeling now. Taken when I was at Sydney Harbour Bridge

Sad way to began my first post

2005-06-30T20:38:00.000+08:00

Today marks the begin of my journey into online blogging. Wished it could have been better. Just received my promotion letter and realised that some how my firm dun think i deserve to be in the higher band for my bonus.

Looking at it, the figure just jumps out and shouts in my face. "YOU ARE LOUSY SO YOU DUN DESERVE A HIGHER BONUS". All i could do was slump down in my seat and ponder the past one year of work. Late nights, endless rds of coffee and working my arse off to meet the deadlines. Taking up stand TIC roles and working up the relationships with clients. What has that resulted in?

Its not so much so of the money. Its just the recognition that you are being valued and the firm knows how much effort you have put in. But with such a outcome, would I been better off by putting up a false front?Maybe i shld have spent more time in building up relationships with pple that determine my bonus rather than the clients?

What are the options that lie in front of me? The portfolio that i have the new financial year is amazing and i loved the jobs that i have. But who I wan to bear the sadness again next year that my efforts are not properly recognised?That someone who puts in min effort would be getting same or even more than me?

Sigh....I need a signal.....