Back to blogging?

Hey there!

Blogging from the middle of the ocean haha.

I finally have decided that I could probably go back to

blogging and constantly updating my blog.

The reason I am feeling lazy to update is cause I

have been procrastinating and accumulating all

my back dated (travel related especially) posts.

My Melbourne and Japan posts are too lengthy

for my hectic schedule right now.

Probably if I put my heart (and efforts) into it,

they would one day appear Lol.

So back to some updates on what I had been up to these recent months!

I had been attending weddings after weddings~

Well, it is the age to be married eh, late 20's.

Chinese wedding, Indian wedding, Malay wedding...

All of those, superb experience having multi racial friends <3

 

It is approaching the end of the year!

Time flies~ so not in chronological order, here are some updates!





Attended my first fashion show organized by Fashionvalet



Bachelorette trip in Penang!










Attended Punjabi wedding and wore saree for the 2nd time!
First time was also for my other Punjabi friend's wedding last year

 





 So I have been into fitness.

I had been trying different ways.

Back around April-May 2015 I was doing a lot of cardio

because I was at my fattest, weakest & heaviest.

Realizing I had always been skinny fat, but that time

I was gaining lots of unhealthy fats.

I puked during hiking, I felt so tired walking short journeys.

For the first time my thighs were rubbing against each other and I had rashes.

 

So my mission at that time was to lost those unhealthy fats,

with no intention to loose weight as I was already at the borderline.

But there is no such thing as targeted fats lost.

I did cardio anyways, everyday running from 3-5km.

I finally did it!

After that my target was to gain strength, so I did body weight exercises, BBG mostly.

You can Google that, or I'll write on fitness in another post ^^

 

I got a lot more fitter, got my abs!

I can finally say that yes, I had packs on my tummy!

Then I wanted to gain muscles elsewhere (glutes and back)

so I moved on to weights around August this year.

Abs when I did lots of body weight abs exercises. All you need is to eat clean, a mat and 30mins.
Will write a separate post on this easy abs routine with my diet.
Abs are less prominent now that I am bulking

 





So because I want to gain muscles, and I am underweight
My target is to eat enough calories or more than what I need if I workout hard
Seeing some glutes, arms and back gains ^^





Then another bachelorette to Jogja, this time visited Merapi and Pantai Timang!

And October was my birthday month! Blessed~~

 

 

I guess I will be back with more updates after this

Life would get more hectic but that's what keep us going

When life gives you lemon, you make lemonade!

Signing off with a seductive selfie from offshore!

Yes, I am one of those girls who gets to work offshore and
I appreciate this valuable experience much!

Probably a fitness post and one on offshore life soon? ^^

The sky is not the limit

I apologize for the lack of dedication.

I've got 2 backdated travel posts

 Melbourne, Australia (which I've drafted till Day 3)

and my first solo trip to Vietnam

I promised I'll update on my Aussie and Vietnam budget trip posts soon!

2 years ago I bought return ticket to Japan but I didn't make it due to work commitment.

Wasted the tickets and still had to work my ass off T_____T

I had been wanting to visit Japan ever since my trip to South Korea in 2011.

After 5 years dreaming of Japan, I am finally going tomorrow!!

And yes! I purposely chose the Sakura season.

If I can only visit Japan once, it will be for the sakura :)

How Can You NOT Afford To Travel?

I just did this quiz, and got hyped up because it's close to who I really am, 

at least who I think I am :)

Melbourne's post gonna be backdated because I have something else to share.

I get questioned a lot on my travelling "habit".

There are many more people out there who travel very frequently so I don't think it is really impossible for one to travel, it just depends on what you are seeking through travel.

Some people has all the money in the world but they are afraid of flying, 

or prefer to stay in the comfort of their homes.

I, am probably the nomadic style. Yes it is tiring but I enjoy the thrill.

I enjoy the feeling of not having a place to permanently stay at.

It is inconvenient but I like the feeling of packing and 

unpacking my bags over and over again to go explore somewhere new.

Which is why Melbourne wasn't a satisfying trip to me.

I brought a trolley suitcase, which I wouldn't prefer over my backpack but 

I was thinking that we're only staying at one place so it would be convenient, 

turned out we had to stay on the 4th floor and there was no lift.

Now I think I will only use backpack except if 

I need to go for a month long or I go on tour packages.

And, I had being at 1 place for too long.

I was in Melbourne for 6 days, it's so long I think 4 days were sufficient.

After all I didn't need the shopping and markets.

I just wanted to experience the culture and go sightseeing.

I also read this article: 

How Can You NOT Afford To Travel? on Huffpost 

http://www.huffingtonpost.com/alyssa-ramos/how-can-you-not-afford-to-travel_b_7835016.html

And I greatly agree with most of the points.

Let me explain based on my budget travel experiences.

disclaimer: from here onward it's solely my opinions and experiences, 

not meant to criticize the article or any other parties.

And it for SINGLE people out there with no commitment, yet.

So here are the points on what's keeping you from being able to afford to travel?

1. You Suck at Saving

There are 2 things you can do whenever you get your paycheck or allowance,

First, put aside a certain percentage of that money to a fixed deposit. 

This is for emergency savings and also for investment purpose.

Second, put aside a percentage for travel budget. 

It doesn't necessarily be a lump sum but it can be a small amount but 

accumulate this amount over a few months.

In order for you to obey the above 2 rules of basic savings & travel, 

you need to be disciplined.

2. You Buy Expensive Things

I don't buy luxurious brands unless they are known to last for at least 10 years.

And I do a lot of comparisons.

A top of over RM50 is considered expensive, 

a bottom of over RM100 is expensive.

Believe it or not, I don't even own a handbag.

I only have a pouch sorta clutch which I keep my phone and money, 

and it cost RM10.

Oh, I don't even own a purse hahahaha

I put my cards, paper notes and coins in 3 separate pouch 

which are all souvenirs from my friends!

I go for discounts and promotions.

If there is no discount or promotion, go to point No.3

3. You Buy Unnecessary Things

When I shop for groceries and household items, I make a shopping list.

When I shop for gadgets or pricier tech stuffs, I make a list with the market price.

When I go window shopping but found something interesting, 

potential-to-be-purchased item,

I ask myself this questions:

#1: "Do I really need this?"

(Do I really really really need this?)

#2: "If I don't have this, can I still live a normal life?" (yes, I really ask myself this)

#3: "Is there any other cheaper option which can provide the same service?"

(for example do I really need a RM20 pen when a RM2 pen can do the same job, 

and I don't need that pen to last for 10 years Lol)

I buy all the things I have in my list first, 

then only look at my budget to consider other additional things.

4. You Don't Consider Other Ways to Make Money

I was a student. I was a jobless unemployed slug. I am a fresh graduate. 

Student: Budget your allowance and consider the countries within your budget, 

and working holidays are awesome choice of travel. 

You have long holidays, 

it's the time for you to earn and travel. 

I totally regretted some of the holidays I spent just doing nothing.

Jobless: Waiting period between graduation and getting a stable job can be a torture.

I took up multiple odd jobs, 

or part-time jobs to get some allowance,

 and to prevent myself from permanently glued to the couch.

I worked part time since I was 15 anyways, 

put some effort if you wanna earn something.

Fresh graduate: It is not easy buying property or running a side business.

Or maybe you have little knowledge on stock market and shares.

But remember point #1, find a banking investment which gives good return.

As long as you are disciplined enough to save, you'll have less to worry.

Online jobs are really "the in thing" nowadays.

If you are hardworking and would really want to earn that extra money,

venture into something you can do from home, save your fuel and time!

5. You're Terrified of Debt

I admit, when I heard bout credit card debts, I am worried too.

But I still applied for the cards because of how convenient they are!

They are great to help me book flights and accommodations for my travels.

They are great when the ATMs are too far or the queue is too long.

They are great when they give rebates/points/discounts to customer paying by credit card.

They are great when you purchase something expensive and it doesn't make sense

anymore to carry so much cash in your wallet (or my already mini pouch).

Here is what I do:

I use my cards to earn points and avoid ATM queues,

but I always make sure that the money in my bank is sufficient to pay for my credit card bills.

"I DO NOT spend more than what I have."

And immediately after swiping my card,

I pay for my bill online so it will no accumulate to be a scary amount 

which could cause heart attack.

You pay for everything necessary first,

your loans, rentals, bills etc. Your savings.

Only then you see what's left and manage your budget from there.

Don't shop then save.

6. You're Terrified of "Losing" Money

I've let too many chances go, 

so recently I took my stand and told myself,

"It has to be now, or never"

We are not going to grow younger, 

our minds and bodies will deteriorate.

Of course you lost the money when you travel,

but remember point #1?

If you have set that money for travel, 

then you shouldn't be terrified of losing it.

The whole point of saving that money was to lose (spend) it.

If you are going to be terrified of losing money, 

then you don't need a travel saving.

Money cannot buy happiness but it gives peace to the mind

7. You Don't Research Affordable Travel Options

Maybe you want to travel in comfort, and you expect it to be cheap(??)

I go on budget. They are not my favourites but I fly cheap on AirAsia, Jetstar etc.

On economy, no in-flight food, no in-flight comfort kit,

sometimes no luggage, on a backpack, staying in dorm of 6-12 beds!

For flights, my favourite site is wego.com.

Very simple and listed based on prices and time.

For accommodation, I book from hostelworld.com or booking.com

Mostly with free cancellation and no deposit needed!

Perfect for budget and nomadic me who don't have any fixed plan.

8. You're Not Willing to Downgrade

Yeap, as above. 

Economy class, cheap flights, less comfort, 

how many are willing to?

If you feel disgusted to share a room with just one stranger, 

stop complaining on how accommodation are way too expensive.

If you need bigger leg space, softer seats, TV on your 10hours flight journey,

kiss budget airlines goodbye and stop complaining flights are too expensive.

My main point of traveling it to step out of comfort and explore.

Seek for myself, learn what is my limit, what I cannot accept and what not.

I love cultures and sights, it's important for be to just be there.

And I almost don't care how I get there.

The flights might be cheap, it might be comfortable.

But if I haven't seen enough and feel enough,

if I haven't experience something new....

it's not really an adventure and I won't be satisfied with the trip 

(yes, I'm talking bout Melbourne)

9. You're "Saving for the Future"

This is exactly as I explained in point #1.

Save for both. Future and travel.

For once, ignore the peer pressure.

It is YOUR life.

I tell myself a lot, that I am unable to care for myself, how do I care for another.

I need to seek for myself, I need to love myself before anyone else.

What's future? 

House? Marriage? Children? Sickness? Funeral?

If you're in your 20's or early 30's, you shouldn't worry bout those just yet.

Keep them in thoughts. Put enough savings for your "future" bank, but go see the world.

Get an insurance, you'll need it.

10. You Really Don't Have Any Money

I have a friend who kept telling me he wants to travel.

I asked him to go then he said he has not enough money.

And I told him "The money will never be enough"

No matter how much you earn, you will keep saying that you don't have enough money.

What job are you doing that you're working so hard but but still no money??

I'd say quit your job and go on working holiday.

At least you'll earn and still get to travel.

Where's next

Having really bad withdrawal

Yes, I dislike Winter (and that was my first)

But yes, I do miss the weather, how contradicting

Humans are really weird aren't we

We miss things we can't have

Totally not in the mood of doing any work

The guy I am supposed to meet is not at work too, probably still on leave

So I am stuck doing nothing

Well not exactly nothing...

Guess where is my next destination?

Yeap, solo and female are the key words

I am reading this from http://theblondeabroad.com/

Before that I was...busy looking at flights to New Zealand *guilty*

Feeling so frustrated that my skydive adventure didn't happen

I teared a little, prayed so hard it still didn't happen sigh

But then I remembered I have a Europe trip in mind

And it will be a big thing, I will need all the money I can save

I will need all the leaves and holidays I can take

So I decided to forget all the small trips I was gonna plan,

like New Zealand, India and Japan..

And do the big one first before I age

I can always go for short and relaxing trip to those countries

But backpacking over Europe? 

I better do it as soon as possible

God knows how many kg of backpack can I carry in the next 5 years.

And, I need to get a camera

A proper semipro or a SLR

Not being able to capture those nice scenery frustrates me

Will be back on Melbourne's post after I get photos from my travel partner!

"Don’t date a girl who travels"

I found this article being shared by a friend who travels a lot and we even miss backpacking. Can you believe it, rather than hotel and tour we really really miss backpacking. The article is so relate-able! Not entirely but there is a reason why I much prefer the single life right now. The only guy who I would date is probably someone who can carry a backpack, sleep in a dorm, bath in a shared toilet and walk for more than 12 hours a day. Trust me, I asked many and not many like such lifestyle. Those who are rich wanted at least a 3 stars hotel, those who are lazy much preferred tour guides...but we somehow, at times, enjoy being lost?

She’s the one with the messy unkempt hair colored by the sun. Her skin is now far from fair like it once was. Not even sun kissed. It’s burnt with multiple tan lines, wounds and bites here and there. But for every flaw on her skin, she has an interesting story to tell.

Don’t date a girl who travels. She is hard to please. The usual dinner-movie date at the mall will suck the life out of her. Her soul craves for new experiences and adventures. She will be unimpressed with your new car and your expensive watch. She would rather climb a rock or jump out of an airplane than hear you brag about it.

Don’t date a girl who travels because she will bug you to book a flight every time there’s an airline seat sale. She wont party at Republiq. And she will never pay over $100 for Avicii because she knows that one weekend of clubbing is equivalent to one week somewhere far more exciting.

Chances are, she can’t hold a steady job. Or she’s probably daydreaming about quitting. She doesn’t want to keep working her ass off for someone else’s dream. She has her own and is working towards it. She is a freelancer. She makes money from designing, writing, photography or something that requires creativity and imagination. Don’t waste her time complaining about your boring job.

Don’t date a girl who travels. She might have wasted her college degree and switched careers entirely. She is now a dive instructor or a yoga teacher. She’s not sure when the next paycheck is coming. But she doesn’t work like a robot all day, she goes out and takes what life has to offer and challenges you to do the same.

Don’t date a girl who travels for she has chosen a life of uncertainty. She doesn’t have a plan or a permanent address. She goes with the flow and follows her heart. She dances to the beat of her own drum. She doesn’t wear a watch. Her days are ruled by the sun and the moon. When the waves are calling, life stops and she will be oblivious to everything else for a moment. But she has learned that the most important thing in life isn’t surfing.

Don’t date a girl who travels as she tends to speak her mind. She will never try to impress your parents or friends. She knows respect, but isn’t afraid to hold a debate about global issues or social responsibility.

She will never need you. She knows how to pitch a tent and screw her own fins without your help. She cooks well and doesn’t need you to pay for her meals. She is too independent and wont care whether you travel with her or not. She will forget to check in with you when she arrives at her destination. She’s busy living in the present. She talks to strangers. She will meet many interesting, like-minded people from around the world who share her passion and dreams. She will be bored with you.

So never date a girl who travels unless you can keep up with her. And if you unintentionally fall in love with one, don’t you dare keep her. Let her go.

article from: https://medium.com/better-humans/802c49b9141c, 

source: http://www.lovethesearch.com/

content is copyright of the origianl owner 

 

Just yesterday I was telling my brother that after 3 years I will take a year off from work, and he said that is impossible, how can I take long leave right when I just started? Like I will still be a newbie then. Like mentioned in the article, I might just turn out doing something out of the blue. I don't feel like settling down just for one thing. But it is the future and nobody know's what the future holds. And, somehow men tried to impress me on where they have traveled to (after knowing my joy for traveling), instead of telling me about their job or family background! Which is why guys who backpacks, definitely not luggage dragger, always impress me! But if you dress in Tom Ford suits that might impress too! ;D

Blogshop complaint

Haven't CNY already make people moody. Lately there are so many online business. I always buy things online because it is super convenient! Like I just sit in front of my computer in my pajamas, messy hair, haven't brush teeth, wash face already start shopping also no one knows. And just now I just got my parcel, went out in pajamas and a towel around my neck, the postman just smiled Lol

Ok nevermind that. So I am still careful with online purchases. If good ones I usually will go back at least 3 to 4 times, the customer service so nice and delivery very fast ones. But some really spoil my mood. See the shop got own domain and bank accounts all under the shop name (not personal account) so means registered company right? But service can be very lousy.

No need to mention name, just need to know the owner surname is Ng Lol. So I made a pre-order purchase which was supposed to arrive within 14 days, not only item didn't arrive but the shop did not notify me on anything until I had to send in a complain. After complain also I still chill cause maybe item is on the way, few days late nevermind. But the owner reply like....rawrrr. In my emails I always have Hi/Hello and Thank you/Thanks. Thank you even if the person didn't help me do anything because it is a courtesy. 

I also ever get complain but I replied properly with loads of Sorry and thank you, I don't know whether the person felt better but to me I will! And this owner don't even have Hi/Hello and Thank you also wrote in short form TQ wtf. I know la almost CNY very busy, but I also busy leh ....

Replied my emails also bo lan bo juak, like it is not her problem if item delayed. She said will refund, and I asked to be informed if she refund but till now also no notice. Since they asked us to make payment within 48 hours after place order (I made mine right after I ordered leh) so I also wait 48 hours see she will refund or not.

I even attached the screen shot where it said the delivery will be made within 14 days to her. If wait till after CNY that is like a month after I ordered wtf. Luckily I don't really need new shoes for CNY, my shoe rack overflowing so not that mad. If it is for important function then really fire eh.

This kinda post seems like it suits Dayre more =.= Anyways, it is just something to remind the online shops out there. Customers make you earn money so please have some, even little courtesy like Hi, Hello or Thank you..make very big difference to many of us.

Anyways, the other I posted this on my Twitter, which many had interest in...I had like..5 retweets? Lol

It is something I always hold on to. When my Mum act like those sales girls and promoters are her slaves, I get very angry and I will tell her "How would you know? You ever work in supermarket? I had the same job!" Because instead of supermarket jobs, she experienced farming, like how she appreciates farmers, I also feel sad when people don't appreciate salesgirls or promoter. Hardworking ones la, not those kept chit chat and play handphone ones.

Go through some though time you will appreciate what you have. Like me now, I save up all my money for travel so I can see cultures and people of different places. I own a phone with a cracked screen (not Iphone and not Samsung just some ciplak phone), thank God I have laptop (Asus basic RM1.5k one), no Camera, no Tablet but I still feel happy as long as got money to eat and shop a little. Wahhh my bro after Dad got him a guitar (like more than RM1k one), bought him tab and now want camera! I die die ask him go save own money. His flight also I pay even though I haven't work =.=

Talking about this topic, now CNY very near so very common question from relatives. "Still studying?", "Working already?" Aiyooo thank God havent ask me when get married else I rage, people always think I am secondary school kid >_< Anyways, since I am now unemployed, these questions really difficult to answer. When I say "I'm waiting for employment", seems like I had been waiting forever and no job liddat. So I always add on "I just graduated" (even though that was 3 months ago *sobs)

Recently I am hooked up reading Gone Girl, there will be a movie adapted from the mystery-thriller novel soon starring Ben Affleck and Rosamund Pike so I need to finish it before the movie premier in third quarter of 2014! Getting more and more interesting!


**update 29.01.2014

So it has been more than 48 hours since the last email and I have yet to receive a refund from the shop.

I know Chinese New Year is coming so I am trying to keep cool but I really want to settle this before CNY, want to happy happy guo nian ma.. And I also don't want the shop to be in debt with me for CNY. I mean this is a shop with 4 different bank accounts, so difficult to make a refund? I mean if she cannot refund just say cannot refund and I will wait for the item even if it comes after CNY right? But she said yes, cannot refund, but till now no refund =.=

If it's me I will want to settle of my business problems, make all my customers happy before celebrating CNY. How to celebrate CNY with all these guilt?? Anyways will update again if no refund. If up till 1 week no refund I might as well expose the shop name, warn people not to shop there. Ask people pay within 48 hours but they cannot refund within 48 hours?? *sigh

**update 05.02.2014

3 days before it is 1 month after my purchase, finally received refund. Seems like they are very busy with CNY and finally back to business. Anyways, despite all the trouble and felt cheated, still thank you for the refund.

Passport tragedy

"7 days in the Philippines" was my most recent trip before I got busy with my final year studies. Will blog about it in another post because what happened before the trip will take a post itself. Long story. Actually forgotten about the travel dates, I had to check my passport wtf. And this has to be the most random and absurd trip I or we had ever made, if not for Cambodia (and if being kicked by an elephant was not crazy enough wtf)

Even at the beginning it was tragic, and this is to be a lesson learnt to me and to everyone reading this post, however I do trust that you are not as blur and (almost) as brainless as I am fml. So we all know that passport has to be "at least 6 months before the date of any journey abroad" as stated on the last page of the passport itself, in bold! 

I knew it all along but I guess I was being ignorant. Because my Thailand trip was less than a month before Philippines trip. Passport was valid for Thailand so I thought it would be valid for Philippines. And I did counted the months, but maybe my maths is too poor I did not include January itself fml.

And I only found out my passport was invalid at the check-in counter. Tell me who at the age of 20's would be so dumb, this is like an old woman mistake, cannot see the dates clearly, forgotten to renew or cannot count fml. Worst come to worst, my luggage was already checked in, under my friend. =.= As my other 3 friends board the flight and dragged my luggage along with them, I stayed alone at the airport. Initially wanted to just buy a flight back home but how could I let my friends bring along my 15kg luggage with them for a week ftl.

The flight to Philippines was the earliest flight around 6.30am. After I was left alone, I went to AirAsia counter to tell them I could not board the flight so I inquired about the next flight. There were only 2 flights per day and the next one at night was super expensive, so I had to take the next day flight at the same time. 

I also checked other airlines but they cost more and some involved transfer in Singapore so I guess that will be more time and energy consuming. Approximately 7am, I took a taxi to Putrajaya to get my passport done. Went early to avoid traffic jams. 

Upon arrival at Putrajaya, we (me and the taxi driver) both didn't know where exactly is the Immigration office wtf. I just followed the signboard and told him to stop next to a building with a BIG immigration office signboard. It was still dark and there were so many foreigners waiting. The quite was so long. It was my first time there and I was alone so I really did not know where to go. I felt that it was weird with all the foreigners and no sign of any Malaysian. So when the office opened at 8am, I went straight to the counter to ask where I can renew my passport. 

The officer saw that I am a Malaysian and she said I was at the wrong place fml. I was supposed to go to block X (couldn't remember exactly but it was somewhere far). I asked her whether it was walking distance and she said no....it will take me a day to reach if I walk wtf.

So again I took a taxi. Almost cried because I was frustrated and lost. Took taxi to the correct place, which was really kinda far, and was told that I need passport size photos. Of course! So there I was looking haggard and took the ugliest passport photo ever. I was expecting to rest in the plane and arrive Philippines soon at that hour fml.

After I took the photos and went to the office, I was given a number. The number must be my life saver, which I will explain later. Because I went to the wrong office earlier on, I was behind few other people. Only half an hour after office hour started, they announced "system down" wtf. So we all waited for 2 hours, or maybe more. After all the waiting, we were told to go to another building because the system there was working. And what pissed me off was, it was the building I went at first, the building which they said was the wrong place. So again I took taxi back to the place I first arrived fml. 

Now thank God again for I managed to get the number earlier on. They said they will only process passports for those who already took the number, meaning those without number will need to come on other days. I cannot bear another day! All my friends are already waiting for me in the Philippines, they even got a hotel near the airport because of me. It was Friday, so it took longer time due to Friday prayers. Everyone left for prayers and lunch so the office was empty, I was there alone waiting and falling asleep fml.

After waiting for 3 hours, I got my passport done and had to eat snacks from a 1Malaysia mini mart for lunch. Went back to the airport, bought my flight tickets to the Philippines, and started waiting. I slept anywhere on the chairs, on the floor, on the rails fml. It was like a torture. But LCCT has always been like that. You see backpackers all around you. They sleep anywhere while waiting for their flights. Because it was so uncomfortable sleeping, I bought a novel which helped past time much faster. 

24 hours since I was devastated by the invalidity of my passport, looking sick and totally worn off, barely slept and my eyebags were hanging off me...I finally board my flight to the Philippines, with only a backpack, an finally a valid passport. Thankful for all the taxi drivers, took 4 taxis on that day fml, they were all very helpful. And I am thankful for such experience, hopefully once in a lifetime, which brought me valuable lesson: check your passport before getting your flight ticket. If expired, renew asap!

July

Finally, it is July! 

Decided to write a short post for July because it has been 

almost 5 years since I entered University!

Cannot remember the exact data but my batch is known as the July 2008 intake.

For now there is no longer July intake since the trimester system commenced.

Final year should be a very busy year right?

But I am overly excited for graduation and trips!

I am supposed to have so many works to do but I am procrastinating~

Thus I have all the time to blog but I don't have the pictures.

Wild adventures we had at Banding, lifetime memories.

Will blog about it once I get hold of the photos.

My only motivation now, is to work towards graduation.

Yours truly,

With Love,

Mei Lin

How to make attending Standing Pen during Concerts more Comfortable

I probably has no right to write this post cause I attended concerts only thrice (all on Standing Pen though) but I just hope this post will help you, and people around you, feel more comfortable when attending concert on Standing Pen. This post is made especially for fans attending Idols Kpop concerts! *sorry I end up having random Kpop concert pics to avoid the post being too wordy*

#justsorandom

So let's start with the benefits of Standing Pen (at least for me). I will not write this in point forms because the are actually inter related. This is because you will be NEAR to stage and there are so many things you can do.

Of course standing pens are the (1) nearest to stage! Most of the time you will get to (2) touch the idols and (3) look at them eye to eye. Very often as well you get to (4) throw them gifts on stage and these gifts will actually land on the stage. While attending concerts, of course you would want to jump, dance, move around etc. so standing is  the best place to (5) rock ya' bodies and not end up being nagged by the security! (Even though most of the times Seating Pen will also end up standing). If you are holding a banner or slogan, the (6) Idols can see the banner clearly! Photography and video-taking are strictly prohibited in any concerts but there is certainly no way to 100% stop these from happening. So if you are in the Standing Pen, you get to take (7) clear close up photos/videos without having any super zoom lens or high end cameras. Idols give fan services. You may end up (8) grabbing something they throw to the audience! 

#justsorandom

However, not all these 8 points are applicable to Standing Pen. Even for Standing Pen you can have a few rows (messed up rows). Most of them are only applicable to the first row, like for example points number (2) and (4). So if you are at Standing Pen but not in the first row, here are the disadvantages: 

(A) You only get to see whoever idols standing in front of you. You will not know what is happening the other sides of the stage except by looking at the big screen. (B) People push you in every direction. To the left, right, front, back so you will most probably able to stand without any energy needed due to the human body supports around you wtf. (C) You don't get to hold your banner much because you will be blocking audiences view behind you. Because Standing Pen is always on a flat ground (no degree) so you are the same level with other fans (hopefully you understand what am trying to say pfff) (D) Tighter security but this will depend on the country and organizer. Since you are so close to the stage, means the security will also be nearer to you. You need to be extra careful when taking photos or videos because not only your camera/recorder will be confiscated, you may end up outside the stadium throughout the rest of the show. (E) If you drop anything, you can hardly find it back. So imagine if you drop your phone, camera, banners etc., you will end you picking up a smashed-dirty-flat-with shoes prints-looking item or totally lost track of where it is being kicked to. (F) May end up unable to see anyone. This is a warning to those height below 160cm (as Malaysian female average). You will be "blinded" by the people in front of you and this again for those not at the first row.

#justsorandom

It is advisable that if you are really not confident on being able to grab the first row or if you often have breathing difficulties, do not go for Standing Pen. You may end up torturing yourself and getting bruises all over after the concert. Of worst, being lifted out of the stadium by securities (because you fainted during the show)

And if you really want to go for the Standing Pen, here are few advises to make yourself and people around you feel comfortable:

(I) Wear something loose and comfortable (clothes). I know jacket/sweater looks cool, may cost you thousands but being in the Standing Pen and standing so packed like sardines in a can, you probably should consider putting the jacket aside before entering the concert hall. A pair of short with t-shirt or singlet is best considering the atmosphere. For Muslims, go for simple tudung which you feel most comfortable in. Avoid ruffles, laces and bulky clothes cause it will not only limit your movement but also trouble people standing near you.   

(II) Avoid excessive accessories. You will end up missing one side of your earrings, your bangles etc. Worst, your accessories may be fashionable but it will end up hurting someone. If you need to, use simple accessories, else, do avoid going for Standing Pen. You wouldn't want to end up being cursed or get a punch in the face!
 

(III) Girls: tie your hair up! OMG am not sure how many times I need to emphasize this one. Except if you are at row #1, you will NOT look appealing with your hair down to the idols but instead looking like a monster with your hair untied. When you attend concerts, and especially on Standing Pen, you will sweat. Your hair end up sticking to your neck, your face, people's face and what I saw worst by far, got stuck under someone's armpit wtf. Your hair will not be nice bouncy but will definitely end up wet (with sweat) and oily. Buns are best!

(IV) Dudes: Avoid the cap! You are blocking other's view! Moreover guys are usually taller (duhhh) so wearing a cap does not help at all. Gel up your hair if you need to but a cap will block your own view and others behind you.

(V) Shave~~ I know, ewwww! When you are at Standing Pen, you are practically in contact with people around you. Remember to always shave bcause the feeling of someone else hair (especially the arms) on your skin will definitely feel comfortable as well. And if you know you will be raising your hard (your idols say "Put your hands up!!!") then for everyone's sake, please shave your armpits.
 

(VI) Less is best! Avoid bringing huge bags and unnecessary items. Not only it will limit your movement, but your attention will also be divided to taking care of your bags/belongings. Huge backs will definitely give you shoulder pains and backaches because people will be putting weights (rest their hands) on your bags.  

(VII) Use a handstraps or landyards for your camera/phone/camcorder to avoid dropping them and getting back smashed-dirty-flat-with shoes prints-looking item wtf.

(VIII) Hold on to that deodorant. I guess this point comes together with what you wear. Less clothes is best because you will sweat less, and if you need to, do get a get deodorant and a decent perfume. This will not only make yourself comfortable but also people around you.

(IX) Avoid heels! Of course in Standing Pen you would want to stand tall among crowds but for safety purposes, you wouldn't want to break your ankle or crush someone's feet. If you really need to stand tall, try using shoes with insoles or height enhancing pads. Wedges can also be helpful but we all know that shoes with thick soles/bases are always better than single heel heels.

(X) Small banners are best. I know there are many fansites making slogans or banners for these Kpop concerts but please be aware that these banners/slogans are potential view blockers. To avoid being cursed at but you still want attention from your idols, make small but outstanding banners/slogans/boards. Make sure that the size is practical and does not cause trouble or disturbance to any party.

 #justsorandom

One more thing, since KPOP Idols are infamous for having their own official lightsticks,
here is what may happen, or at least DID happen to most of us in moshpit:

BIGBANG VIP Crownstick >.<

Now you know why I asked you to tie up your hair? Else you may just get unwanted free "combing" service

These are just from my experiences and complains I got from my friends! If you have any suggestions on how to make attending Standing Pen during Concerts more comfortable, do write a comment! ^^

With Love, 

Mei Lin

Instagram for Android

I'm sure you noticed something new in my blog! 

It's the BadgePlz for Instagram!

Android finally came out with Instagram!

Previously I had been active in Twitter using twitpic

from my computer and yfrog from my mobile.

Now you will see me using all three, probably :)

Also had many photo editing apps in my mobile but I will share this next time.

Follow me on Instagram and also Twitter! 

I am using the same username: meilin_k

Had also tried updating my blog using mobile 

but the connection in my Uni is really bad.

So you will see me M.I.A. from time to time but 

I will be back for some hyper updates next week!

This week, including the weekend, 

up till next Wednesday will be super hectic!

I've got interviews, tests, assignments and presentations to catch up on.

But you will see me in Instagram so don't forget to add me!

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Readers know my obsession for TaeYang a.k.a SOL from BigBang :)

This one made me laughed whole night LOL

With love, Mei Lin

AirAsia Big Sale: Tips and tricks

I am sure most of you knew about AirAsia BIG Sale, especially if you subscribed to their newsletter, "like" AirAsia Facebook and even follow them on Twitter (yes, that's me). And even my Dad called when he saw the advertisement on the newspaper. AirAsia is not the most comfortable airline but it is low cost so not much to complain.

They have flights within Malaysia and to other parts of South East Asia countries from RM19 onwards, saw some at only RM17 though! I bought to Bangkok with the family and Clark with the friends :)

And sales on AirAsia X, which flies to further locations such as China, Australia, Japan, Taiwan and South Korea. Notice the "selling fast" section?? Grab yours asap!

The BIG Sale started on 15 February midnight and goshhh due to the worst internet connection in UTP, most of us here who really planned to fly somewhere actually stayed up all night to book the tickets. I slept at 6AM and still didn't manage to book anything so we decided to try the next day. We kept getting into the waiting room, which reloads itself every 15 seconds but sometimes all of a sudden it stops loading and shows an external error page.

Using Mobile to purchase the tickets is faster (using phone data plan since there is no wifi in my room) but I tried to avoid it because the processing fee is RM20 per transaction.

I had a few destinations in mind before the sale started. My first choice was of course Bangkok, Thailand because my Dad had been there way before he started a family and he had been wanting to go there again. And my cousin married his wife, who is a Thai and is currently residing in Bangkok. My family had not seen them ever since had took up a job there so this will be a good opportunity. And then, Japan as second choice because I really want to experience the culture there. Told my parents I aim for Australia during the year end but considering it will be Summer and will be hotter than Malaysia, I considered not to.

Here is the list of all the locations I checked and the flight charges including fuel, tax, 15kg baggage allowance and a RM12 meal:

1. Hanoi - round trip around RM279

2. Manila (clark) - round trip around RM169

3. Tokyo - round trip around RM567

4. Osaka - round trip around RM579

5. Taipei - round trip around RM736

6. Beijing - round trip around RM427

7. Shenzen - round trip around RM398

8. Bangkok - round trip around RM249

Maybe you've found cheaper prices because the prices depends a lot on the dates picked. Considering using this AirAsia Price Chart for your reference, it always work for me.

For all the extra charges included, I consider them cheap. I love to travel so I had been constantly checking on flights ticket. Even checked for MAS flight to London, RM1700 is freaking cheap but considering we only had 3 weeks before the semester starts, and the need to submit our Internship report after 3 weeks, we opted for somewhere nearer this time. We still dream of backpacking in Europe one day, most probably after graduation :)

TIPS: Here is some tips for a satisfying backpacking (cheap) trip, at least for me:

1. Budget

Consider the budget you have and make sure the destination you pick is within budget. In this budget section, also consider other basic necessities like accommodation and food. For us who backpack, these are the 2 basics, and others are extra money for transportation, sightseeing and entrance fees.

2. Travel companion

If you go backpacking, make sure you partner(s) agree to do the same. Sleeping in hostels, walking long distance and etc. It is important that you both share the same interests. You can't be going shopping alone while she goes to the club alone. Or if he loves seeing temples and you prefer the beaches. Misunderstanding during the trip will cause all of you to be moody. If you are daring enough, consider backpacking alone. Read: this or this. For me, I have yet to find the guts. Considering I am the only daughter in the family, it makes me think twice, or thrice. And makes my parents think forever :)

3. Language barrier

Consider language barrier when you travel. For example when travelling in South East Asia countries, using English is not a problem. But when you travel to China, Hong Kong or Taiwan, you will probably need to learn Mandarin or Cantonese. The same applies to Japan and Korea. Without learning the language, it will be really difficult because most of the signboards and instructions are in their language. The citizens rarely speak English and may treat you differently if you cannot converse in their language. Try considering whether you will have enough time to learn the language before you travel.

4. Weather

Since you knew when will you be travelling, try Google-ing for the weather during that period, especially for 4 seasons countries. The best time to travel is during Spring and Autumn. Summer is not bad be I am pretty sure not many Malaysians want to experience Summer because Malaysia is having Summer all year round. Winter is not that bad, considering those who want to touch some snow but be informed that the view may be all just, snow. And walking in the cold is not something really great to do.

5. Exchange rate

Survey for the best exchange rate near your place. After calculating your budget, you should know how much currency you should change. Consider having both large and small notes for convenience. Do not keep all your cash in your wallet or purse, place them in you bag or luggage as well (but always lock them and pay extra attention to them) so that if you lost them, you won't lost the whole amount. Activate your ATM card for overseas if you do not own a credit card. Easy, just call your bank and they will verify your identity. Inform them your travel period and walla!

6. Research

Do your research well on where to go and what to do. Do a daily planner and the locations for that day should be in one area, and move to the other area the next day. LonelyPlanet travel books are great reference for must go places and the must eat food (my favourite!). They also have prices for your reference. Plan on how long should you be in a location and how to get to the next as well.

TIPS: And you want to know how to grab AirAsia great deals?

1. Use Firefox or Google Chrome

I guess most of us knew that Internet Explorer is a pain in the ass so using Mozilla Firefox or Google Chrome definitely helps a lot, loads much faster as well and does not go into error all of a sudden.

2. Subscribe to the newsletter and follow AirAsia on Facebook & Twitter

Want to be the first to get the news, this is how it is. Or if your friends are AirAsia freaks, they may just spam Facebook with the AirAsia promotional posters. But pay attention to the booking period and travelling period to prevent disappointment. If you know about it earlier, you will be prepared earlier for the following steps.

3. Be an AirAsia member

This will enable you to fill up contact details fast. Add in up to 10 of your friends and family into the guests list so that you don't need to fill up over and over again if the page reloads. When there is an "error" message, do not panic, just hit reload. I also realized that whenever you sign in and click book, it loads faster.

4. Fix your date but be flexible

I know it sounded ironic but you must know when are you free to travel so that you will know when dates to check on. Loading during sales in way slower and each time you click on the book button, you will be directed to the waiting room. Which is why to prevent entering the waiting room too many times (and at the end you may miss the seats), fix the dates. And as I said, refer to the AirAsia Chart for the dates with cheap fares, usually on weekdays.

5. Book from 3AM to 6AM

Seriously, from someone who stayed up from 12AM to 6AM. At around 3.30AM, the booking was so fast you will only be directed to the waiting room if the location you picked is a hot spot. So you can sleep early, like me and my friends, and wake up during the wee hours to buy the tickets.

6. Debit banking or Bank transfer

Paying with debit card or through bank transfer will prevent you from being charged the processing fee. The processing fee for credit card is RM20 per transaction. However, make sure that if you use Bank Transfer, the online banking service for your bank is in service. For example I used CIMB clicks, they update the service every night from 11.30PM to 12 Midnight and sometimes the system is down up to 8AM (which is what I experienced when I booked for my Manila trip so we had to use credit card before the seats run out).

7. Pay attention to the website

Pay 100% attention to the site because they have time limit for you to fill up all the details (which is why it is better to do point #3 before you start booking). The page will expire and you will need to click OK before the page expires and reloads. Same goes for the payment page, make sure you are sure of all the details in order for you to fill them up fast.

The Sale is still on up to tomorrow so if you've read all the tips, quick! Go grab your seats! :)

I've wrote a lot, now time to play some cards before I get killed by my friends for saying "wait" too many times :P