Family Trip 2016

Every year I take a family vacation with my Mum and sister. This year we headed to Hanoi. Although I have been to Vietnam on a number of occasions, this was my first visit to Hanoi. 

Compared to Saigon and Hoi An, I found Hanoi slightly less progressive in terms of tourism infrastructure. Nevertheless, I am not one to be discouraged when on holiday and certainly had an enjoyable time. We left the planning of the trip to my Mum. Other than booking the flights and hotel, places of interest to see and eateries to patronise were planned by Mum. In a sense by doing so, it offered an element of surprise somewhat, always a good thing while on holiday.

Family trips as such allow us to bond, but it is not without its stress-inducing moments either. Varying interests and expectations sometimes come to the fore, as differing taste buds too. However, when all is said and done, a sense of family reigns supreme and a worthwhile trip is what matters most. 

Photo shot on the Aerotrain at Kuala Lumpur International Airport.

Keeping The Faith

'A meaningful and heartfelt party that celebrates a milestone reaffirms one's faith that the best is indeed yet to come. Grateful to have been on the guest list'.

 

That was my post on Facebook yesterday. Sometimes we, or rather I, need a reminder that there are better days to look forward to. Although we are oftentimes advised to be content with all the good that we already have in our lives, there are certainly areas that can be improved upon.

 

This year has been a contemplative one, and whilst thinking things through can be a good thing, overthinking can put a damper on one's outlook. So, I shall continue to embrace the optimist in me, reaffirm my commitment to keeping an open mind, and always be willing to take a leap of faith.

 

 

Sunrise on Cua Dai Beach at Palm Garden Beach Resort & Spa in Hoi An, Vietnam.

Colourful Experiences

A reminder to self, to lead a colourful life. Having as many experiences as possible in life is something that I always remind myself to do. Despite work commitments, it is necessary to make the time to partake in other experiences.

 

Exercise. A good magazine in hand by the pool. Tea with friends. Dinner with family. Alumni functions. Travel. Reading. The list goes on, and in many permutations.

Doing so enhances one's appreciation of the good that life has to offer. It piques our curiosity, it stimulates our senses. It reminds us to set goals, have aspirations, and to work towards fulfilling them. Most importantly, it gives us the opportunity to meet people along the way, some of whom will contribute to the wonderful lives that we lead.


Lanterns of Hoi An in Vietnam.

Hoi An

When one returns to a desti-nation repeatedly, one gets to experience the nuances of the place better each time. I recently returned to Hoi An in Vietnam for my fourth visit. A part-work, part-leisure trip, the visit was enchanting to say the least.

 

As one gets to know the streets better, the appreciation of the sights and sounds is enhanced. As one gets to know the locals better, the gastronomic experience is elevated, particularly when one takes heed of their recommendations. And when one patronises an establishment so frequently that the proprietor serves you personally and banters, it makes a return visit so much more inviting.

 

Of course, how much one enjoys a trip also very much depends on the company. Laid-back, easy-going and adventurous travel companions are catalysts for a memorable journey indeed.

 

 

By the river in the ancient town of Hoi An, Vietnam.

Hoi An Again

Repeated visits to a much loved holi-day destina-tion makes each subse-quent visit even more enjoyable. I recently made my third trip to Hoi An on the coast of Central Vietnam. A Unesco World Heritage city, it is charming and easily navigated on foot.

 

Familiarity is a plus when returning to a favoured holiday spot. I am a creature of habit to a certain extent and I like to head back to familiar food haunts, perhaps experience a tourist site from a different perspective. Seeing new attractions or coming across previously undiscovered gems are also something to look forward to.

Hoi An has been a wonderful experience each time I've visited. Some friends of mine who have never visited have suggested we holiday there next year. It won't take much to convince me to do so.


Riverside in Hoi An, Vietnam.

Doing Our Best

Doing our best is what is most important. Whether our best is good enough or otherwise, having made the necessary effort validates our initiative to make our aspirations come to fruition. We of course always hope that our efforts result in positive outcomes but there are times when our best somehow falls short of what we hope to achieve. Having put our best foot forward, one ought to come to the realisation that perhaps it is just not meant to be.

 

I try not to think that we need to become resigned to the fact that our efforts were not sufficient. On the contrary, I believe that fate must have a different plan. And if so, we just need to carry on, walking the new path that is before us, still putting our best foot forward, with faith and hope as our best allies.

 

For those facing challenges, improvements are in store, as difficult situations can only get better in time. Sometimes when answers are not forthcoming, all we can do is keep the faith and continue on the journey that unfolds as we take a step at a time.


Incense at a temple in Hoi An, Vietnam.

A Mirror Of Life

When the writing for a TV show is great, it can teach us a thing or two about life. Be it from a comedic stance or at the other extreme a dramatic one, plots that mirror circumstances we face in every day life can sometimes help us view things in a different light, from a different perspective.

 

Shows that speak to us are those that make us feel good. Those that lift our spirits when we are vulnerable, those that enhance our sense of gratitude when we are happy, those that make us more appreciative of the important people in our lives.

 

Being entertained is already a plus, learning a thing or two in the process is very much a blessing.

 

 

Cute decorations in Hoi An, Vietnam.

Season's Greetings

It's that time of the year again! Christmas is approaching and the new year is just round the corner.

May you wear many hats this festive season and the year ahead ...

A loving companion,

A filial child,

A good friend,

An astute entrepreneur,

An honourable employee,

A food aficionado,

A health enthusiast,

A world traveler,

A giver of gifts,

A compassionate soul.

Wishing you a blessed Christmas and a Happy New Year.

Photo shot in Hoi An, Vietnam. Do visit the store near the river, in the pedestrian only part of town.

Busy, Busy, Busy

I am in major need of some pamper-ing. The past few weeks have been crazy at work. With it being the peak wedding season now, That Special Occasion has been a highly-strung workplace to say the least. My team and I are working at a frantic pace to complete gowns for photoshoots and weddings, and not to mention fielding appointments with brides-to-be planning for their nuptials end 2012 and early 2013. Add to that having to complete weddingsmalaysia 2013 for printing and you can imagine the stress levels I have been experiencing.

Suffice to say, I am not feeling 100%. I ain't ill but ain't in the best of shape either. I think all I need is a few days of good sleep and some pampering - reflexology, massage - to lift my spirits. Some lazing by the pool would help too; although I swim regularly, it's pretty much been lap after lap and then hitting the showers right after, with hardly any time to just chill poolside, a pastime I find most relaxing.

I am certain my colleagues in the wedding industry feel the same. It's basically back-to-back jobs this time of year. We shan't complain really, because it's good for business. We just need to learn to steal some time for forty winks, for a quick coffee, for a nice meal in a relaxing environment. Happy working everyone!

My cousins and I preparing for a massage in Hoi An, Vietnam earlier this year. Photo courtesy of Thoo Ai Peng.

Banh Mi Phuong

Sometimes sampling street food can be a particularly memorable experience while on holi-day. Ha-ving arrived in Hoi An, my cousin Lye Synn kept telling us that we needed to locate Banh Mi Phuong, a street-side Vietnamese sandwich stall made well-known by a visit from Anthony Bourdain. So on a little hunt we went, in search of this nondescript gem of a find.

Butter, fresh mint, spring onion, pate, pork, jambon, chicken, fried egg and chilli sauce, all packed into a crunchy Vietnamese baguette. Need I say more? An absolutely delicious afternoon snack it was. So much so that I went back for more such Banh Mi over the next two days.

Being willing to be adventurous with food while on travels is definitely a good trait to possess. Having meals at fancy establishments, family-run restaurants, quirky cafes and street vendors provide an all encompassing experience. A fulfilling one indeed.

Sam Yee, Auntie Alice, Ai Peng, Lye Synn, Yeong Ken, Honn Ken and I at Banh Mi Phuong in Hoi An, Vietnam.

Family

A couple of friends recently com-mented that I come from a pretty close-knit family, just by judging from some of the photos I posted on Facebook. That's certainly true. The majority of my extended family, both paternal and maternal, all live in the Klang Valley, so we get together often.

My late father instilled in me, from childhood, to value family ties. At the onset of every year, I block my calendar for dinner with the extended familly during festivals and celebrations. I very rarely miss these occasions. Some of us go on holiday together every year, an annual ritual of sorts.

As some of you may already know, I just very recently returned from a trip to Hoi An and Danang in Vietnam. We were a group of fourteen; aunts, uncles and cousins. When travelling in a large group, some compromise is needed, and plenty of patience! Still, we had a good time as always.

Dinner upon arrival in Hoi An, Vietnam.

Hoi An

I've just returned from a holiday with the extended family. Six days we were in Hoi An and Danang in Vietnam. I've come back rested and with a nice tan.

Of the two, I prefer Hoi An. A quaint town it is, with Unesco World Heritage status to boot. I love the small shops, the cosy cafes and restaurants, particularly the ones located within the 'pedestrian and bicycle only' part of town.

The people of Hoi An are very much artistically inclined. Well known for its custom made attire and shoes, one will come across a custom tailor and shoe designer everywhere one turns. We were spoilt for choice indeed.

Beautiful lanterns in Hoi An, Vietnam.

Mixed?

I've been asked this question twice in the last few days, 'Are you mixed?' One a client, another a new acquaintance. 'Not that I know of' is my answer. I find this quite funny. This always happens to me too when I visit Bali. The locals always ask if I am Japanese.

The only possible reason that I can think of as to why some may think that I am of mixed parentage is perhaps of my tan. I've been swimming a lot lately in preparation for the Bali triathlon, and I often do so during lunch time under the blazing sun. Similarly when on holiday in Bali, I am usually red as a lobster.

Whatever the case may be, I am Malaysian first, of Chinese origin second.

Photo shot in Ho Chi Minh City in Vietnam last Christmas.

One Of Those Moods

I am in one of those moods, actually, I have been in one of those moods for quite a while now. I gather everyone goes through such moments from time to time, except the super-perky ones I suppose. I belong to the former.

My long time friends, and I mean those who have known me for more than a decade, would readily acknowledge that I have my moods. In fact, I have been rather infamous for them in the past. My friend Shirley insists that she can sense a scowl by the way I answer the phone. She says I have improved, but that's only because I make the extra effort when I see her name appear on my phone! And I have been in need of such extra effort of late. For many reasons, some personal, others professional, I haven't been in the best frame of mind the past couple of weeks. I deal with it as I best know how and I am sure it'll soon pass.

In the meantime, I surround myself with positive vibes. Exercise. Good food with friends. Indulging my sweet tooth. Wisdom from wise words. And a reflexology and massage are definitely long overdue.

Notre Dame Cathedral in Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam.

Cafes

I like visiting cafes, be it in town or when I am traveling. Thing is, I don't drink coffee but that hasn't stopped me from enjoying a chocolate or tea. I sometimes work in a cafe, writing, answering emails, but most times, I am happy just to have some solitude, reading a magazine amid pleasant surrounds.

Lately, I have had a craving for cakes, don't ask me why, the result of which is that I am finding myself being drawn towards spending more time in such establishments. Looks like the calories are inevitable and are a foregone conclusion.

I guess what this means is that I'll have to swim more. The sacrifices one has to make to indulge.

Photo of Bitter Sweet in Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam.

Solitude

Sometimes it is good to have some solitude. Some time alone to ponder over things, to clear one's mind of clutter, to think of new ideas, to strategise, to enjoy one's own company.

I am rather busy most days meeting with brides-to-be, dealing with industry colleagues on their ad materials and the like. So when the opportunity arises for me to have some time out alone, I jump at it. Doing laps in a pool all to myself during lunch, a reflexology session at the hands of a brutal Chinese therapist, a hot chocolate in a cafe, even a one night stay in a hotel should I be so lucky to have a complimentary-stay voucher every once in a while.

I've noticed that solitude in a nice, relaxing environment helps me in my writing. I also tend to be more productive when editing text, I am more gung-ho in initiating meetings with potential advertisers via email, more gets done. A little time to oneself does wonders.

Photo of the interior of Notre Dame Cathedral in Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam.

Thanks 2010

2010 has been a year that made me realise the important things in life. I lost my father in January to cancer and his passing reinforced some of the lessons he taught me - the importance of family ties and kinship, integrity and to live my life as I deem fit as long as I am happy.

2010 has also been one where I have traveled much. Bali twice! Hong Kong, Singapore, Penang, Kuching, Ho Chi Minh City and the most significant, my solo trip to Turkey for my birthday. To see the world is something I always find inspiring and I hope to see more in the year ahead.

2010 also made me understand that some friends are more worth having than others. I appreciate the good ones, and I will certainly discard the ones that have done me wrong. It's the time of year to say 'good riddance to bad rubbish' and to be truly thankful for those in my inner circle who accept me for who I am and who put up with my nonsense.

2010 has made me a stronger person, one who faces challenges head on, who embraces the opportunities to scale new heights, who relishes new experiences, who tries a little harder to find the missing pieces in life.

2010 has been a milestone in more ways than one. Thanks for the good times and the not so good.

2011 beckons!

Photo of Suk Harn, mum and I at Pho 2000 in Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam over the Christmas holidays.

Christmas And New Year Lights In Saigon

The festive lights have been shining bright in Saigon. This is a photo of the Christmas and New Year decor on Dong Khoi street, the main shopping thoroughfare in the city. The lights definitely add a festive dimension to the atmosphere and for visitors like us who are spending the festive season on holiday here, it very much contributes to our experience of the city.

One can see many whipping out their cameras, posing on the streets, snapping pictures. Not only tourists, the Vietnamese too seem to get caught up in the euphoria of the celebrations. I guess it is a season that generates happy vibes, a sense of hope and faith. A positive mindset for all of us to take into the new year.

This is my last night in Saigon and the experience has been a pretty good one. I am sure I will return at some point and there is certainly much more to see and do.

Photo shot on Boxing Day in Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam.

Christmas In Saigon

I wasn't particularly in the Christmas mood before leaving KL earlier in the week but am definitely in the spirit here in Saigon. The streets have been dressed up, the restaurants have been fully booked and the people have been coming out to celebrate.

I would say that witnessing the Saigonese come out onto the streets and celebrate with such gusto has been a highlight of my visit. Horns blaring, the chaos of people on motorcycles jostling with people on foot, the way they party with reckless abandon, is an experience not easily forgotten.

We had a seafood Christmas lunch at Ngoc Suong, recommended by Leticia and Tjun Hong, and then a Christmas dinner of Hue cuisine at Mitau, the professed choice of Eileen's and Richard's when in Saigon. I ended the evening with a hot cocoa at the rooftop bar of the Rex Hotel, enjoying the retro songs crooned by the resident band, backed by the sounds of horns as well as the hustle and bustle of the surrounding streets below. As I took a slow walk back to my hotel, I marveled at the colonial architecture of City Hall, beautifully lit up, a perfect backdrop for photos of both the locals and tourists alike. And I said a little thanks for the opportunity to be here at this time of year. Merry Christmas Ho Chi Minh City!

Photo shot at the lobby of the Rex Hotel in Saigon, Vietnam.

Saigon On Christmas Eve

To say that it was an experience is an under-statement. I was told beforehand that Christmas Eve in Saigon could get pretty crazy. Well, I suppose the photo says it all!

It was truly a bit overwhelming being crushed in a crowd of Vietnamese and tourists alike. The photo was shot slightly after 9.00pm in the vicinity of Lam Son Park, somewhere between the Caravelle and Rex hotels as we made our way back to our hotel on foot. I had had dinner at Vietnam House on Dong Khoi before heading to the rooftop bar of the Caravelle Hotel and decided to head back as the crowd swelled.

On hindsight, it is ironic that I would get packed like sardines as I don't even bother heading into town for such celebrations when in KL. I suppose this is what holidays are all about - new experiences. Merry Christmas everyone!

Photo of a sea of people at Lam Son Park in Saigon, Vietnam.