“It’s that time of year again when florist make more money in three days than they normally do in three months. When you put your lactose intolerance aside and enthusiastically accept chocolates from your boyfriend like it’s the most creative gift on earth. A time when you willingly pay a ridiculous amount of money to sit in a crowded restaurant to stare into each other’s eyes while trying to ignore the 20 other couples doing the exact same thing. Yes, it’s Valentine’s Day. A wonderful time for those in love.” -interesting definition from Reader’s Digest.

Neither burning a hole in my pocket nor getting eyesore staring too much, it was nothing but a normal day for someone with no Valentine. Sometimes I wondered, is this supposed to be something to be sorry about or a relieve?  Hmm… Ok, back to topic..  Love was more focused on friendship that day. That sunny morning started with a family breakfast. The enjoyment of my delicious “Loh Mee” was interrupted by mum’s grumble. “Why my handsome son and pretty daughter who dressed so lovely today still no valentine? No one will ever believe this.. bla bla..” As usual, ears were opened wide enough to let all words in and definitely out easily.

A lady who shares the same interest, passion and thoughts would be ideal but seems like my cupid angel is still looking for his best arrow to fire. It is like shopping for suitable clothes. You got to look around at different shops with different brands and design. Yes, I admit I’m someone who will go for a try on  less frequent in a fitting room if I see clothes that might suit me. Sometimes you may end up not buying any.. oopss.

While my parents headed back to hometown, and sister back working on her audit file, I started the Karaoke session with my old friend and her colleagues at Red Box as the shouting and vocalizing lasted for 3 hours. We had nothing better to do than to join the crowd where most couples hang out. Park? No.. Hotel? hey, you dirty minded.. It is the dark room where couples can do anything without being noticed.

Movie Crowd on Valentines

It was worth queuing. Wistful, melancholic, steeped in a sense of impermanence and looming mortality, “The Curious Case of Benjamin Button” starring Brad Pitt is not a movie one could have predicted. It tells the tall tale of an infant who is born as an old man—tiny but suffering all the infirmities of an 80-year-old—who lives his life in reverse, becoming younger with each passing year until he achieves real infancy at the end of his life. Truly inspirational !

The lovely day was concluded with dinner/supper back in hometown accompanied by another old friend of mine. So, no Valentine? No problem.. Because friends are like Valentine. Heartwarming, bringing pleasure. Connected to good feelings, with memories to treasure.

Portrait shot of me and Lithan

Portrait shot of me and Shuey Ding

Since I was back from Banjarmasin, everyday is party day for me. Meeting friends and family here and there… having fun and laughter here and there .. chatting, gossiping here and there. And of course, eating and keep eating here and there. So, every day is Valentine’s for me!

Chap Lak Meh Steamboat Gathering - Singapore.

Family Gathering at Shokudo

My last word. Happy Valentines Day everyone! Hope you enjoy your way of celebrating it.

Hanging AngPow at Hotel Lobby

For Chinese people, the Lunar New Year that falls on Jan26 will be a great occassion to reflect on what they have achieved in the past year as well as to make a wish for the year to come.

As for all who work away from home, reunion with loved ones in the Lunar New Year holiday is the best, or one of the best, remunerations for all the hardships that have been endured during the year. Bringing money and gifts home to aged parents and young children is the greatest joy after year’s hardwork. These are the values of Chinese culture that have remained for thousands of years.

For me, who is now working on a dredging project, this year is an exception. Neither family gathering nor lavish reunion dinner, here am I in a Muslim dominated country - Indonesia. Red packets (angpow) collecting sessions, waking up fresh with new red clothes, visiting around with friends are replaced by a word that no one will like it (W-O-R-K).

Barongsai - Lion Dance

Disappointment increased when the festive occasion will be celebrated as a low-key event in a world where Chinese is minority. Before the reform era, Imlek (Chinese) related celebrations were shunned by the New Order government. At least now, it’s good to see people openly celebrating Imlek. However, it is a different story in Aceh - the only province in the country that has adopted Islamic sharia law. Chinese have to abide by all existing regulations in Aceh. Many Chinese are fearful of publicly performing the world-reowned lion dance, known as Barongsai, wary of riling followers of other religions.

It was Jan25, a day that every Chinese longed for. My grumbling stomach reminded me, it’s time for the big feast. This time no expensive abalone soup, auspicious fatt choi or delicious home-cooked mun cabbage, instead, I had a quite sumptuous feast with my colleague at an Indonesian-Chinese restaurant (halal). I had no complains… at least we had a reunion lunch as scheduled.

Me and the so called Reunion Lunch

I wondered since when the BBQ tradition started in my life. The BBQ dinner haunted me twice in a row this year. First, the New Year celebration in Singapore and now Chinese New Year in Banjarmasin. Our celebration continued with an early simple BBQ dinner with guys from work.

A bbq dinner by Penkonindo guys for Penkonindo guys.

After the fun messing around with our food, we then rushed back for a Lion Dance performance scheduled at the hotel lobby. The funny word “Barongsai” which means Lion Dance in Indonesian was introduced. The ceremonial drumming added some spices and create the exotic, authentic atmosphere for the auspicious celebration. As the drum goes on, I whispered to myself, “At least, I had something different this year! I’ve never watched Lion Dance performance during Lunar’s eve.” Hours of walking, sniffing, acting curious and pawing on the ground, the Barongsai ended. As usual I’ve filled up my memory card with all the interesting shots.

Greetings from the lions on CNY Eve at Swissbel Hotel Lobby, Banjarmasin Indonesia.

Nope, it’s not the end of our day. We ended up at the hotel lounge singing in public. Being forced by my half-drunked colleague, I was asked to sing with the contract singer. First, the popular Indonesian song by ST12 named PUSPA (Putuskan Saja Pacarmu), then touching love song “Terima Kasih Cinta” by Afghan and lastly, the duet of oldies “Tonight I Celebrate My Love For You”. I was a bit nervous during the first song, but then confidence was gained when fun rolls in.

Singing 3 songs in a row after the Lion Dance.

Cheers and claps from colleagues, guests and hotel staff made my day. The supposed to be an unexciting day became an extraordinary experience. As the famous Chinese proverb goes, “When you are at home, you depend on your family. When you are out of home, you depends on your friends”. I seconded. Nowadays, hotel is treated as my second home, while hoteliers and colleagues became my family members. On my second thought, I am already back home for Chinese New Year.

CNY Moment with Swissbel Hoteliers

We visited the only temple in Banjarmasin on the next day. Quite surprised to be greeted by some local Chinese who speaks Chinese! Although they are not fluent, I managed to have a good chat and got to know about the best place for non-halal Chinese food and where all the Chinese hang around. According to them, the number of ethnic Chinese here who embrace Buddhism is falling, with many converting to Protestantism and Catholicism.

Banjarmasin Tri Dharma Temple

Tri Dharma Temple at Banjarmasin

No matter if they are Christian or Muslim-Christian, most of them will throng temples to burn incense, and pay respect to their ancestors during the prosperous day. For them, this is not defying their religion but a chance to reflect on life and remember their ancestors. Most of them want their kids to know who their ancestors were and they don’t think praying for their souls and remembering why they are here now makes them less of a Muslim or Christian. I felt proud as the Chinese over here stand as one even they are from various religions.

Same old words, time flies. Another year awaits for us! But, having to think about it.. Have you achieved what you’ve planned for 2008? No? If it is regarding work or better pay? Then too bad. As recession is coming to town. Indeed it has already arrived at your doorsteps.

This year, Christmas is never that merry.. for most people. Why? Because “Recession is Coming to Town“. So, sing along…

You’d better watch out
You’d better not cry
You’d better keep cash
I’m telling you why:
Recession is coming to town.

It’s hitting you once,
It’s hitting you twice
It doesn’t care if you’ve been careful and wise
Recession is coming to town

It’s worthless if you’ve got shares
It’s worthless if you’ve got bonds
It’s safe when you’ve got cash in hand
So keep cash for goodness sake, HEY

You’d better watch out
You’d better not cry
You’d better keep cash
I’m telling you why:
Recession is coming to town!

Finance products are confusing
Finance products are so vague
The banks make you bear the cost of risk
So keep out for goodness sake, OH

You’d better watch out
You’d better not cry
You’d better keep cash
I’m telling you why:
Recession is coming to town

America’s second biggest bank, Citigroup announced a staggering cut of 52,000 jobs. China announced a big jump in unemployment as many factories producing for exports closed. Singapore foreign talents human waves slows down as recession bites. Approximate 16,000 employees laid off by Sony.  Dell lays off 700 in Ireland while San Disk layoff 450 – 500 employees. Motorola joined the crowd with 3000 employees. A lot of the factories have choosen to layoffs their staffs or force their employees to take unpaid leave. Bla bla..

Well, well.. shall I talk about this during Christmas Day! Am I spoiling ur mood huh? Sure, I am… Sorry for that but Merry Christmas.

This year, am celebrating Christmas in Banjarmasin, Indonesia. No christmas songs, no candlelight, no fireworks, no hustling crowd, no doubt.. a “Silent Night” indeed. Well, at least we had a company dinner during Christmas Eve at a Japanese Restaurant… no huge turkey but sashimi and teppanyaki for Christmas.. what a weirdo…

Anan, Me and Ronnie (Christmas 2008)

Nova, Sarifuddin and Kwong (Christmas 2008)

Jan, Evie, Kwong and Sarifudin (Christmas 2008)

Still remember last christmas, me and bunch of friends joined the countdown crowd at Orchard Road, then headed to Clarke Quay for some beer, finally ended around Singapore River, not longing to go home.. That was really a fun  time!

The Night Before Christmas

Christmas Crowd at Orchard Road, Singapore (2007)

Christmas at Clarke Quay (2007)

Day 4 is Family Day as we spent most of our time in Dream World or in other words, The World of Happiness. The classical European style fantasy land is located at Pathum Thani Province, just north of Bangkok. Although nothing much relating to Thai, it is the best place for family fun.

Dream World, Thailand

Totally lost in the Fairy Tale maze, we visited the Giant’s house (Jack and the Beanstalk), strolling around Frog Prince castle, riding around with the enchanted Cinderella pumpkin carriage.

Stuck in Jack's Room

Do some arm wrestling and transformed myself to SuperJason and caught the bloody thief on a Tuk Tuk.  Sounds childish rite? Come on, it’s dreamland.. spare yourself and be childish for a day!

Arm Wrestling

SuperJason saves the day

Ok, if the childish fairy tales don’t appeal to you, then you may consider this.. feel the adrenaline rush on the coaster…

Silhouettes of the coaster

If you couldn’t stand the hot weather, cool down in the Snow House. Finally, we ended the day with another family portrait. This is supposed to be a couple seat in Dream World. Instead we made it a family seat. Why not? Love makes a family, don’t u agree?

Love Makes a Family

Great moments are always short! Don’t you think so? The moments I have been longing for, now became memories. Although it was just 5days 4nights.. our family bond had grown stronger. I strongly believe that travel is the best way we share love, happiness and great memories together.

Family Portrait at 84th Floor

Even though, our Thailand trip ended after the fifth day. The Magical moments will never go away, and remains in our heart as a nostalgic memory.

It has been great sharing these wonderful moments with you, and I wish to share more. Now that I’m back in Banjarmasin, Indonesia for work, I never miss documenting the Banjarese lives over here through photography. Just went to Lok Baintan, Banjarmasin early 5.30am this morning. Had a lot of scenic shots of the traditional Floating Market here. Will be sharing them in my blog soon, but first, I’ll need time editing and uploading. So, stay tuned..

Of all the 2000++ photos, these are some i can share… feel free to browse through my Amazing Thailand photostream in Flickr for more photos–> Amazing Thailand Photoset

“November should be the month, but why he is not out yet?” she questioned worriedly. Day after day.. excitement became restlessness. “Until one fateful day, a big moth landed on my belly and you came to the world hours later,” she told me.

Her statements put me in deep thoughts. Am I “Liang San Puo” (from Chinese literature Lovers) reincarnated? Nope, they turned to butterflies, not moth! Am I an immortal from the moth clan who got reincarnated due to wrongdoings? Perhaps, I watched too much Chinese fairy tales. All unrealistic thoughts swirling my mind. Anyway…

2 years after the first post, Once Upon A December - 22years of living, here am I again celebrating my 24th Anniversary.. No longer celebrating alone during semester break in University (2 years ago), and unlike last year, celebrating with my schoolmates in a Japanese Restaurant, Singapore.. this time I was accompanied by my fellow colleagues in Banjarmasin, Indonesia. It’s a memorable one indeed as the hotel lounge singer and other hotel staff get together and sang me a birthday song as well.

Celebration at Hotel, 9pm

My heart melts as candles burnt. It was a touching memorable moment. Thanks for all the wishes I’ve got from you guys. May all our dreams come true. World peace, and say no to global warming!

Updated on 3rd December 2008

I thought I am finished with this post. I am wrong. Good times haven’t ended yet. I’ve received a wonderful surprise from the hotel today.

Birthday Wish from Swissbel Hotel

After all day work, back to my hotel room, this is placed on the minibar. Although my name is spelled wrongly, I really appreciate the effort. With this, I would say this is my best birthday ever as everyone in the hotel are aware about my birthday.

2 Birthday Guys

Coincidently, it is Jan’s (colleague) birthday today, one day after mine. All of us gathered and went for a nice dinner at a restaurant to celebrate our big day.  Just came back from the dinner. Surprises all day long.

I would advise you to read my previous post regarding my Thailand trip as this is a continuation from the previous two.

Day 1: Expected the Unexpected
Day 2: Tradition Live On Too..

Before going on with all the good words of the magnificient Thailand, here is a bad one. Exactly one month after the nostalgic moment, a dramatic event happened. Anti-government protesters in Bangkok blockaded Suvarnabhumi, one of Asia’s busiest airports since 25th November, Tuesday night. Seeking to oust Thai Prime Minister in the latest escalation in a long-running political crisis.

Suvarnabhumi Airport, One Month before Closure

Now that all flights are cancelled, stranded tourists.. it will be a big impact to the tourist industry as this is the time when Thailand will be expecting more tourists. Thailand is no longer Amazing, as the dangerous place reputation to do business and travel has been worsened. According to Thai media reports, some 100,000 tourists are stranded, and schedules of airlines around the world have been disrupted. The situation got worsened as today 51 protesters were wounded in several explosions.

Well, I am lucky to be in Bangkok at the right time. It’s a beautiful country, too bad this is happening! Still and all, this event doesn’t affect my perception to Thailand. It is still amazing to me and worth visiting.. not during this time of course. Day 3 had instilled this mindset.

After breakfast in Asia Pattaya Hotel, we strolled around the garden and beach. Serene atmosphere and fresh sea breeze… it was the perfect antidote to the uncompromisingly massive structure.

Admiring the White Orchid at Asia Pattaya Hotel

We are supposed to be in Choral Island, but due to my sea-proofed family, we decided to skip and go somewhere else. On top of that, I’ve been to Krabi… why waste for the same activities! Sea is part of my work location anyway. Thus, we ended with the “Wonders” of the world. Mini Siam at Pattaya, a place which contains miniature replicas of many sacred places and important historical sites around Thailand. Ranging from The Arc De Triomphe and the Sydney Opera house to  Tien Tan Temple, Eiffel Tower, Colloseum, The Statue of Liberty and etc. All of these I have had the honour of seeing in real life. Of course the miniatures..

Beijing Temple of heaven, T'Ien Tan

Not forgetting to mention the historical sights of Thailand such as Grand Palace, Wat Arun, Democracy Monument, Buddha’s Footprint and etc.

Trying to shoot as if it is in big real scale

The statues of Goddesses and King of Snakes, Ananta

We spent hours gasping here and there, and I was shooting here and there like nobody’s business. It’s a small world after all. In the afternoon, a jaw dropper event awaited our arrival. It was the fascinating Thai Culture and traditional dance show at Nong Nooch Village, Pattaya. Now look at the shots, the eye catching dance under the gleaming lights.

Thai Cultural Dance, 1000 Hands Style

Thai Cultural Dance and Costume

It was extremely challenging to get a clear shot in the low light situation and far from the stage. Luckily, i brought my tripod, sitting up quite tall to avoid audience head shots.. an indian audience behind gave me an earful, claiming that I was blocking his sight. Who cares! I already got my best shots and I’m proud of them.

Ladyboy, main attention on Stage

Throughout the dance, one question keep swirling in my mind.. “Who is who? Which one is a lady, which one is “katoy”?” I asked myself. In Thailand, there are an estimated 10,000 katoys. It’s an ambiguous term, spanning full male-to-female transsexuals who have had their pen*s removed, breast implants and an artificial vagina inserted, to men who have had breast implants but have kept their pen*s. In addition, there are also transvestites who work in the cabaret circuit and male actors who dress as women for television. Eunuchs have been part of Thai society for centuries. So, as soon as this lady came out (photo above), I am sure she was a he!

End of the Show

More shots, visit “Amazing Thailand” album in my Flickr. That is why I called Amazing Thailand, a country rich with culture and architecture. The best part of our magical journey indeed! From cultural dance to religious ceremonies and martial arts, we then moved to the Elephant shows. This time I was impressed again watching elephants with special skills in playing football, dancing, and even interacting with tourists. Look at how they tease the audience!

Elephant Tease

Our day ended with a two-hour Thai massage. All in all, I would conclude Day 3 as an eye opening day into the rich culture of Thailand. Now I can see why Thailand has a lot to brag about itself and its appealingness to tourists from all over the world.

Next coming post: The Magical Journey Never Ends (Day 4 & 5)..

This is a continuation to the previous post. Thus, it is advisable to first go through  previous “Amazing Thailand: Expected the Unexpected (Day 1)“.

Yet while Bangkok has undoubtedly embraced westernization and modernization, it remains undeniably a Thai place at heart. In between the skyscrapers and sophisticated shopping centers there’s still the remarkable temple lying everywhere in the city. Day 2 has proved to us that traditions live on too!

It was early 5.30 in the morning. Bangkok is one hour slower than Malaysia. Thus, we can expect early sunrise over here. The golden light shines the city and it’s going to be another wonderful day for us.

The Early Sunrise

After the best buffet breakfast at 78th floor restaurant, we checked out and headed for the group. “Chao Phraya River will be our first destination”, said the tour guide. Chao Phraya River is a major river in Thailand also known as Mae Nam (Mae is “Mother”, Nam is “Water”), which literally means “Mother’s Water” or “Mother’s Milk”. “It was the mother’s milk that allows Thailand to grow,” according to the locals. As it flows, the river carries with it the history and culture of the country.

The Temple of Dawn

Along the boat trip, we passed through countless temples. Each with their own unique design and history such as “The Temple of Dawn” or in other words, War Arun. Located at the west bank of the Chao Phraya River, you don’t want to memorize the full name. Ok, get ready and spell with me.. it is Wat Arunratchawararam Ratchaworamahavihara. Got it?

Heavenly Temple

It was named “Temple of Dawn” most probably because the first light of morning is reflected off the surface of the temple with a pearly iridescence. The first thing that crossed my mind, How do they do it? It is like building an Eygptian Pyramid in Thailand. Well, I was unable to hold forth a high brow discussion on this, but I really appreciate those who built this iconic structure.

Rows of holy Sakyamuni Buddhas

Luck is on our side that morning. We are fortunate enough to witness a traditional ceremony held when one become a monk. Holding 3 lotus, he was accompanied by his family and friends marching around the temple and one of them started shouting with a weird tone (Tarzan-like tone).

The Day He Became A Monk

Visiting the small canal near the Chao Phraya River named Bangkok Noi (Noi is “small” in Thai), typical Thai houses and lifestyle can be seen over here. Not to my surprise, it is almost the same as the River City, Banjarmasin.  We then entered “Bangkok Noi Floating Market”.  The high expectation came to a naught when only two small boats were rowing around selling souvenirs. “Where are all the rest ?” I asked. Then I was told that this is nothing compared to the real one 1-2 hours out from the city. The boat ride ended after making merit “feeding cat fish with bread” in front of the temple at the canal. There are hundreds them swimming around and only one, white in color. According to Thai’s believe, those whose bread is eaten by the white cat fish, will be blessed. Who knows?

Chao Phraya River, Mae Nam

The City of Lights will be our next destination. A once sleepy fishing town which then booms as rest and recreation city, mainly prostitution. Particularly for single men looking for companionship. However, things have certainly improved and the city has been turning its location into a family-orientated destination. So besides bars and pubs, there is plenty more to do and see these days. Ya, I am sure you got it right. It’s Pattaya!

Our journey spans almost 2 hours from Bangkok. Upon reaching to the central, we dropped by Sri Racha Tiger Zoo for the so called “legendary tiger show”. Don’t get it wrong.. this is the real tiger, not those tigress in Pattaya. The zoo hosts one of the world’s most successful tiger breeding program and has thousands of alligators as well as some other animals.. The show started with an act by a mischievous, cute little pig which ran out clumsily and successfully revealed the “Welcome” cloth. The crowd burst with laughter.

Sri Racha Tiger Zoo

Next came the highlight of the show with a performance by the large Bengal tigers. The tigers sat in a semi-circle with their backs to the audience at the start of the show. A word of advice, don’t ever sit in the front row as they sometimes start pissing as they can squirt backwards a couple of meters. You don’t want to feel the rain! Jumping through hoops of fire, walking on their hind legs, then the show ended. Well, I am not that impressed!

Too bad the weather was not on our side. It was raining so heavily that we couldn’t get most out of it. There is a nursery where you can see one of the most remarkable sights at the zoo. This is the tiger cubs drinking the milk of a large mother pig. And then, in the neighbouring cage, there were piglets dressed in tiger skin shirts running around with a full grown tiger! What a sight!

Pattaya, City of Lights

Finally, we reached Pattaya. Hours stuck in the neverending jam made me feel frustrated. Once again, D300 saves the day. You know what I meant! As mentioned, Pattaya is renowned for its nightlife. A city with hundreds of beer bars, go go bars, and night clubs/discotheques. The night is always young.

The world famous Walking Street is the center of Pattaya

Our night ended with a good rest at Asia Pattaya Hotel, approx 8-10 km away from the city centre. We skipped the Cabaret Show and further activities as we were too tired travelling. A good night sleep and adventures tomorrow!

When Culture Meet The World (Day 3) coming soon…..

Attention: Extreme long post below. Reader discretion is adviced.

Same old words again. Time really flies. After 20 days back to the River City, the great moments in Thailand can never be dished out. In the first place, why should I ?

It has been almost a decade, our family stop travelling overseas. Money and time has always been the main hindrance. Now that both siblings are working, our dream finally came true. This time we decided to visit Thailand. The niggling doubts regarding the safety of the city due to political issues never got in our way.

The nostalgic moment began on Oct, 24th. Bangkok and Pattaya awaits our arrival. It was a jaw dropping moment when I first stepped into the arrival hall of Suvarnabhumi (meaning the Golden Kingdom in Thai) International Airport. What aroused me most was the beautifully designed and practical architecture that promotes an eco friendly environment. With the world’s tallest control tower, 3rd largest single building airport terminal, Suvarnabhumi is one of the most busiest airport in Asia.

Suvarnabhumi International Airport

Taking a deep breath, whispering to myself, “Here am I, Bangkok!”… Greeted with friendly smiles and Sawadeekap, we headed straight to Thailand’s tallest hotel, Baiyoke Sky Hotel. Once again, Bangkok never fails to amaze me. Looking at the skyscraper, I am expecting more from it.

Baiyoke Sky Hotel

Rising 88-storeys above Bangkok’s skyline, 309 meters tall, the hotel has 2,060 steps from the bottom to the top. It takes over one hour to reach the top. The area inside the hotel building is 179,400 sq.m., or about 30 football fields. There are 1,740 windowpanes in the hotel building, which is almost the same number of windowpanes used for over 200 town houses.

The 46th Floor

After checking in at 18th floor, Lobby.. 46th floor would be our next destination. The connecting room did not dissapoint us. As what I’ve seen from Flickr, I was expecting this scenic view.

360 degrees Bangkok panaromic view, shot at 84th Floor

From the moment on, every seconds count. A shopping paradise awaits us at the central, although I am not into it. We decided to walk around the city central. Rushing down with anxiety, we somehow forget to ask which way to go. Asking around with no idea where the shopping mall is, we later found out that it was impossible to walk to that area. With no delay, my eager-minded sis quickly approached a Thailand’s ubiquitous taxi, Tuk Tuk. I wondered it was a wise decision..

Thailand Ubiquitous Taxi, Tuk Tuk

Although the bumpy, sweaty and adventurous ride, it was somehow faster than taxis in heavy traffic as weaving in and out is easier. It cost 4 of us 20 baht for two Tuk Tuks. Totally worth it! It was only RM1 each Tuk Tuk. A word of advice, you should always bargain before you get on a Tuk Tuk. Nevertheless, taxis in Thailand are very affordable as well. The colorful taxis were another amazing discovery. You’ll get a full range of taxi colors from bright pink and orange to combinations of orange and green or blue and red. It’s a scenic sight to see those colors roaming around Bangkok.

Colors of Bangkok

Here we are at the City of Life, in the middle of modern and fashionable shopping district with several large shopping centers. We first arrived at an enormous marble shopping mall which is once known as the biggest malls in Asia, MBK Center, also known as Mahboonkrong. It is particularly well known for its many vendors of mobile phones and other electronics, as well as furniture stores. For me, it was like Sungei Wang shopping in Malaysia.

MBK Center

Walking through the pedestrian overpass linked to MBK and the Bangkok Skytrain National Stadium station, we came across to other shopping malls. The malls are in better condition, more high-class one after another. Namely Siam Square, Siam Discovery Center and finally “The Pride of Bangkok”, Siam Paragon. Siam Paragon has became a popular spot for Thailand’s upper class, tourists, rich foreigners and locals who come to be seen.

Siam Paragon, The Pride of Bangkok

Walking through these malls can be quite tedious. Likewise, It was an eye opening moment indeed and a total change of our impression to Bangkok. The city becomes even stunning when night falls. The view from the hotel room after sunset draws much of my attention to keep on shooting. Here it is the exotic Bangkok, lights gleaming invitingly.

When Night Begins, View from Hotel Room

The cheapest place to shop in Bangkok is with the outdoor/night markets (if you bargain). Due to the typical congested traffic that delayed our dinner, we arrived late for the night market located just below the hotel. Just before 10pm, most vendors started packing due to the rain. It was a dissapointment for my sis and mum. For me, a bit… as there were less crowd for my night market photography. Who cares for the shopping?

The Art of Bargaining

Finally, our visit to the open air Revolving Observation deck at 84th Floor, Baiyoke Sky Hotel  concluded our first day in Bangkok. The roof is fully lit up, glowing high in great distance. Shining around, people from miles away are able to view words displaying “Welcome to Baiyoke Sky Hotel”.

The Lights of Baiyoke

Day 1 has given me the capital of exotic Thailand, the first impression of endless high rise buildings, busy expressway flyovers and billboards of western companies advertising in English. Most probably, this is our first time, we aren’t quite sure what to expect.

Adventures continue here in the next post: Tradition live on too (Day 2)

Finally, it’s time to go home. This time, I travelled with my sis by plane. Ya, as usual I’ll never waste any of my time sitting there doing nothing waiting for our departure. I’m getting most out of the Senai Airport although there is nothing much.

Her Thoughts

“Ta da” I said, showing off my new D300 to my sister. Here we go, we start the photography session. She replied, “Not again!”. Then, she started posing… huh.. Anyway, I was trying to familiarize the new DSLR before I bring it to Thailand for better shots. What an excuse!

Me at Senai Airport

It was 50 minutes before boarding time. The plane has not even arrived, yet you can see such a crowd.. the “kiasu” (fear of losing) culture revealed! Haha! This is the authentic social attitudes of people, especially in South East Asia. I admit I’m kiasu as well. After taking this shot, I joined the queue.

Kiasu Attitude Revealed

Finally we were on board with the red angels.

The Red Angels

I still couldn’t get through my previous flight experience. I am praying hard when taking off and landing nowadays. After almost an hour above the horizon, we landed at Pearl of the Orient, Penang. Being welcomed by my lovely parents, we go straight for our dinner.

White Prompret Fish and Prawns Porridge

This famous porridge can be found in a little kopitiam named “Joo Leong Cafe” at Sg Tiram, along Jalan Sultan Azlan Shah, on the way to the airport, after the factories Osram, Bosch and Amphenol (Penang, Malaysia). Although one bowl may cost around RM10, it is worth eating as the seafood here are really fresh.