Remember the countdown party that I wrote about a couple of weeks before the year 2011 ended? Like you, I had my doubts about going to crowded places on New Year’s Eve, thinking that the traffic would be horrible, parking would be a mess and the sweaty crowd would be a turn-off. Still, judging from the stellar line-up of events in the Mystical Eve concert, I dragged Saucer to go along with me anyway, and boy was I impressed! We were there by 9pm on the eve and surprisingly the traffic was not bad at all – the best part was, we even managed to find a parking space really close to the venue. The night seemed to be starting off really well.

The crowd at Mystical Eve Encorp Strand

The Red Carpet Avenue at Encorp Strand was still a relatively new place to hang out, so most of the surrounding shops were new. While we were walking towards the venue, we could already hear the sounds of Mizz Nina singing ‘What you waiting for?’ from afar.

Little black dress

The massive crowd

Mizz Nina performing

In between performances, the two gorgeous hosts Julie Woon and Megan Tan were busy entertaining us, with highlights of the performances and even suggestions on where to have dinner.

The hosts Julie Woon and Megan Tan

After Mizz Nina’s rocking performance, it was Dennis Lau’s turn with his violin. However, before he began playing, he introduced his partner-in-crime for the night – Shawn Lee the Beatboxer. It was the first time I watched Shawn Lee performing live and I was blown away by his beatboxing talent. Who could have known that such sound effects could come from the mouth? You have to watch the video below to know what I mean! Bear in mind there were no other musical equipment used in the performance, only a violin. So whatever sound effects that you hear (resembling drums especially), were all from Shawn Lee. It was also coincidentally my favourite performance of the night.

Dennis Lau and Shawn Lee

Dennis Lau the violinist

Shawn Lee the Beatboxer

After the concert, there were various performances by the aerial acrobats, doing their stunts high up in the air. It was quite amazing watching how they balanced themselves and hung on to dear life by just clinging on a piece of cloth.

Aerialists doing their stunts

Hanging in the air

There was also an Illuminating Laserman show towards the later part of the night, another performance that managed to wow the crowd.

Illuminating Laser man show

Of course, all these performances and shows wouldn’t mean as much if we didn’t celebrate the countdown with dear friends. I attended the event with a group of gorgeous bloggers from Malaysia’s Hottest Bloggers, where we were showered with plenty of Johnnie Walker Gold Label Reserve – a special drink that’s befitting the last day of 2011.

with the gorgeous bloggers from MHB

Bottles of Johnie Walker Gold Label Reserve

What’s more? The sweet couple Caroline and Eric who happened to be free that night also came to join us for the countdown. With free flow of beer, endless entertaining performances and wonderful company, we really could not have asked for a better countdown party. Some of the pictures I took with the bloggers that night:

with Caroline

Saucer and witch

with Mei Sze and Brigette

with Emma and Rachel

with Kim Ong who was back for holidays from Melbourne

The 5000-strong crowd

At the stroke of midnight, the skies directly above ENCORP Strand were filled with multi-coloured fireworks, to mark the inaugural launch of ENCORP Strand’s New Year Eve Countdown. It was definitely a night to remember!

Happy New Year 2012 at Red Carpet, Encorp Strand

Fireworks at the stroke of midnight

We left the venue by 1am and may I just add, traffic was kind to us too. Happy New Year 2012!

For more info on Red Carpet Avenue visit http://www.facebook.com/encorpstrand.
For more info on Johnnie Walker Gold Label Reserve, visit Johnnie Walker Gold Label Reserve.

You’ve seen the beauty of Pangkor Laut Resort and the fabulous dining options available there, but what about things to do when you’re not eating or in the villa? To be honest, this was one of my worries planning a trip to a secluded island, because Saucer is not one who takes boredom lightly. If I bring him to a place where he has nothing to do for 3 whole days, I will never hear the end of it! So after our little getaway, I’m happy to announce that no, you won’t be bored in this little precious gem of an island. Here are the five (5) FREE things that you can do:

 1. Read a book/ Surf the internet

The library located adjacent to the reception lobby is very cosy. There are plenty of couches for the comfort of readers, with quite a decent selection of books. On one side of the library, there are several beds for you to lie down on, while reading, or napping! The beds looked too comfortable for words that I simply had to lie down there if only for a few minutes.

Comfortable couches in the library

Beds to read on

Outdoor reading, if you prefer?

For those who cannot stay away from the Internet, good news! There are 4 units of computer located at a corner of the library for the convenience of Facebook addicts or MSN/Skype chatters. Me? I can wait. I can definitely do without Internet for a couple days.

Internet surfing

2. Nature Walk

Nature walk – now, this is more of my kinda thing! I had to practically drag Saucer to join me in this 2-hour slow hike to Emerald Bay, led by Uncle Yip the amiable nature-lover. The Nature Walk happens at 10.30am every morning, starting with Uncle Yip briefing us on the route at the library. According to him, the route we were going to take could be completed in less than half an hour, but we would take longer time to listen to his explanation and to allow us to take pictures. Soon, our walk began!

Uncle Yip briefing us about the Nature Walk route

Walking out of the library

It was a sunny afternoon

Hornbill visiting us

As usual, the sight of hornbills was not uncommon by now. We saw at least one of them joining us during breakfast or lunch every day. They felt totally at home with us. But what was more interesting to note was the abundant bats hanging upside down from a tree near the beach! If we had not looked up, we would not have noticed them, shielding themselves from the bright sun. According to Uncle Yip, this was the only tree that one could find these bats, probably due to the comfortable shade that this huge tree had to offer.

Plenty of bats hanging on the tree

Along the way, we also saw this pretty dendrites marking the stone steps near the tennis court. This was yet something that we wouldn’t have noticed if not for the nature walk. Don’t they look like plants?

Beautiful dendrite formed on the staircase that looked like a plant

At this point, the sun was already shining hot above us, but we were only halfway through! We continued walking and walking, past the Sea Villas and towards the forest. If you’re lucky like us, you would spot some monitor lizards along the way too.

Walking towards the Sea Villas

Monitor lizard spotted on the rock

And in the water

We walked and we walked

Across the emerald sea

The long path ahead

Under the shining hot sun

After one hour or so, we reached the starting point of the forest, and braced ourselves for the uphill hike. Don’t worry, it’s not that difficult. There were only a few flights of stairs at the beginning of the hike and mostly downhill afterwards. If I were you, I’d worry more on the mosquitoes. Yes, there were plenty of them! Remember to bring mosquito repellent if you’re planning to go for this hike. Don’t say I didn’t warn you.

And we reached the jungle trail

More steps before we reached

Gigantic tree in the virgin forest

First signs of Emerald Bay

Mushrooms along the way

After about 45 minutes of slow walk, we reached Emerald Bay. The sound of waves lapping up the beach was a welcome change to the slapping of mosquitoes.

The tall coconut trees against the blue sky – we’re at the beach!

3. Emerald Bay

Now that we’ve reached Emerald Bay, let’s spend a couple of hours lazing under the sun on the clean beach. The water was clear and emerald in colour, exceptionally gorgeous on a sunny afternoon when the sky was blue. It was a breathtaking scene to behold, and I could not stop myself from snapping pictures of the gorgeous beach. Since this is a private island, the beach is secluded and quiet, absolutely perfect for sun-bathing or a siesta without interruption.

Beach at Emerald Bay

The clear blue sky

The clean emerald waters

 The lone tube

Breath-taking view

We even went for a swim in the shallow part of the sea, just for the fun of it. But remember to apply plenty of sunblock lotion before doing so, or you’d end up with peeling skin!

 Getting ready for a swim

Going swimming in the secluded beach

The fabulous beach at Emerald Bay

4. Sports

Sports lover? Rejoice! Apart from the sea activities such as kayaking that you have to pay for, there are some free sports that you can do on the island itself. For starters, there’s a gym with complete facilities just next to the swimming pool. And then there’s a game room where you can play table tennis. If you’re more of an outdoor person, take a dip in the swimming pool, with the view of the sea to boot!

Swim in the gorgeous pool

How about a game of tennis in the newly refurbished courts? Too bad for me since I know nothing about tennis! Plus, I can do without the sun, thank you.

Tennis courts

Every morning, there are complimentary Yoga and Tai Chi sessions held at the Spa Village. If you’re a morning person, this would be perfect! Imagine doing yoga in the cool and crisp morning air, all the while listening to the sound of peaceful waves. Such a bliss! I would have joined this activity, if I could wake up early in the morning.

Spot the anchovies in the water!

Another activity that you can do for free is fishing! There are fishing trips that bring you out to the sea for a few hours but are chargeable. For the cost-free option, you could bring your own fishing equipment or borrow them from the sports counter, and fish at the island itself. There’s a designated beach area near the jetty where one is allowed to fish.

Towards the jetty

Last but not least, if everything else doesn’t excite you, I’d suggest for a romantic walk in the evening along the bridge connecting the Sea Villas to the Spa Village. I’d say this was the perfect path for a quiet walk with the sound of waves, the sight of calm sea and the warmth of orange lights, without the mosquitoes. Yes, I have to admit, I love walking on this bridge, especially at night.

Romantic walk in the evening

5. Camwhore around the Island

Needless to say, with such a gorgeous resort, there are countless of photo opportunities around the island! A picture speaks a thousand words so I shall let my pictures do the talking!

Saucer at the bridge

Heading to the Spa Village

Picture on the way to the jetty – spot the Hill Villas

Waiting for our boat

The calm and green sea

Angry Birds!

Last picture of us before we left

The beautiful Pangkor Laut Resort

Soon, it was time for us to leave! As usual, the hospitality at Pangkor Laut Resort was like no other. From the moment we entered, right up to the moment we left, we were in very good hands. The staff was always smiling and cheerful, with this warmth they had about them, making us very reluctant to say good bye.

The friendly staff waving us goodbye

Farewell Pangkor Laut Resort!

 Pangkor Laut Resort took our breath away

Pangkor Laut Resort
Pangkor Laut Island
32200 Lumut,
Perak, Malaysia
Tel No: +603-2783 1000
E-mail: travelcentre@ytlhotels.com.my
Website: www.pangkorlautresort.com
GPS Coordinates: N 4° 11′ 58.76″, E 100° 32′ 46.92″

For the rest of my Pangkor Laut Resort experience, check out my Pangkor Laut Resort Itinerary.
For a complete set of pictures, check out my FB Album.

What will you be doing on New Year’s Eve this year? How does a FREE party with Malaysia’s biggest stars sound to you? Well I may have passed the age of partying but then, it’s hard to resist when so many huge acts are coming together to perform on this special day while waiting for the new year to arrive. This new year’s eve, ENCORP Strand is proud to present MYSTICAL EVE 2012 – an extraordinary countdown event at its prestigious Red Carpet Avenue from 6pm to 2am.

Mizz Nina will be there!

For the very first time in Malaysia, the ENCORP Strand building will move, transform, and come to life in 3D to the beat of pulsating music, light effects and fireworks. What do you mean by 3D? Just look at the video below of how the 3D projection of abuilding came to life. So amazing! Beams of laser light are hand-manipulated before your very eyes, bent, stretched and spun around like a light sabre by the electrifying Laser Man. With aerialists twirling through space to a dreamy rhythm and a contortionist pushing the limits of human flexibility, the crowds will pour in – mystified!

3D projection of building

Who will be there?

Mizz Nina – I’m sure no introduction is required for this internationally-known hip-hop queen who hails from none other than Malaysia. She catapulted to fame with her single  “What You Waiting For”, and her more recent single “Take Over” (with Flo Rida) earned over 100,000 hits on YouTube when it was first released. I must admit that I didn’t think much of “Take Over” at first, but after listening to it a couple of times, it’s actually pretty catchy and I couldn’t get it out of my head.

“Take Over” by Mizz Nina featuring Flo Rida

Dennis Lau – And who can forget Dennis Lau, the guy who recently acted in the much-talked-about Nasi Lemak 2.0? Having started his violin lessons from a tender age of 8, he is no stranger to us as an accomplished musician who has won multiple awards and performed with various international celebrity. That night, he would be performing with Shawn Lee the Beatboxer who represented Malaysia in the Beatbox Battle World Championships. Check out the video of both of them doing what they do best alongside Canon in D. Very talented pair!

Dennis Lau

Dennis Lau with Shawn Lee the Beatboxer

Joe Flizzow – The award-winning hip-hop artist is half of the internationally known duo Too Phat, the band that received multiple international awards and recognition from MTV Asia and Channel V. After 10 years in the band, he started his career as a solo artist in 2008 with the release of his album President and his fame never stopped growing since.

Joe Flizzow

Some other noted performers include Najwa, Pop Shuvit and Reza Salleh, not to mention the famous DJ acts Aurology, Davern & Jee Hoe and DJ Xu, pumping up the Red Carpet Avenue with unstoppable energy. What’s more, the event will be hosted by 2 sizzling hot emcees – Megan Tan and Julie Woon, both faces familiar from the 8TV Quickie.

Megan Tan

Julie Woon

with the Malaysia’s Hottest Bloggers

Are you still having second thoughts? Throw them away and join me and the Malaysia’s Hottest Bloggers for a fun party to cap the year with style.

Mystical Eve 2012

Themed “Tonight, Extraordinary Works Overtime”, MYSTICAL EVE 2012 is bound to kick-start your new year in high gear. FREE ADMISSION! For more info, visit facebook.com/encorpstrand.

Lately, it seems that beach holidays are the ‘in’ thing. Not wanting to miss out on the bandwagon, I booked a 3 day 2 night getaway to Pangkor Laut Resort for our 2nd anniversary. Yes, we’ve been married for 2 years now and it felt like forever. It was supposed to be a surprise to Saucer, so everything was planned discreetly, right up to the day of departure itself. I had informed him to make himself free for that particular 3 days, without letting him know where we were going to. Luckily for me, he’s not a curious person (unlike me!) and just followed my lead!

5-star Diamond Award

Now many people might mistake Pangkor Laut Resort (PLR) with Pangkor Island, the more well-known counterpart. In fact, they are two very different islands that happen to bear similar names. Pangkor Laut Resort resides in a private island, occupying the whole island on its own and making it exclusive only to the patrons of the resort. That is to say that the access to this island is only allowed to resort guests and no one else. On the other hand, Pangkor Island is open to public.

The Pangkor Laut Resort check in office in Lumut

After making the necessary reservations, we only had to make ourselves present at the check-in office at the stipulated time and let the resort staff take care of the rest. To get to PLR, one could either fly to Pangkor Island via Berjaya Air and take a boat to reach PLR, or one could drive, just like us. We drove to Lumut and parked our car at the multi-storey car park. The car park charged RM0.30/hour for every hour of the day, which meant RM7.20 for a full day of parking. From the car park, we made our way to the PLR check in office which was located at the corner unit of a shop house lot. Just look out for the signboard, it’d be quite hard to miss it.

Pangkor Laut Resort lounge in Lumut

Once we got our names checked and reservation confirmed, our luggage was taken care immediately and we were seated at the lounge area with glasses of welcome drink (sparkling Ribena, I suspect). We were there 20 minutes before the scheduled boat departure, so we had some time to read the newspaper and enjoy our welcome drink.

Towards the jetty

About 10 minutes before our scheduled departure, we were escorted by the staff to the jetty. For your information, the boat schedule is as follows:

• From Lumut Jetty to Resort: 0800hrs, 1100hrs, 1300hrs, 1400hrs and 1700hrs
• From Resort to Lumut Jetty: 0900hrs, 1200hrs, 1230hrs, 1500hrs and 1800hrs

Boats docked at the jetty

We took the 11am boat and before long, we spotted it coming from afar. The boat ride was comfortable as we did not meet with any big waves on our way there. Within 30 minutes, we already spotted the sight of the Sea Villas on stilts, pretty gorgeous really.

Our boat to PLR

Safety first

To Pangkor Laut Resort we go!

Mini lighthouse in the distance

A yacht in front of PLR’s jetty

The calm waters towards the resort

When we’re near the PLR jetty, we could observe how the waters were emerald green in colour and very calm. It gave us a sense of peace just by being there. Coupled with the fact that this resort is private, so we did not get the usual holiday crowd.

The lobby from a distance

I suppose what makes the trip to PLR so memorable is how hospitable the staff was, and how pampered we were. Right from the moment we checked in at Lumut, we were made sure that we’re comfortable and had everything we needed. And when we reached the PLR jetty, there was a group of resort staff standing by with cheery smiles, welcoming each of us individually as we stepped out of the boat. We felt like royalty!

The first sight of PLR

Walking towards the lobby

Once we reached the lobby, each couple was assigned to a personal escort. Our escort by the name of Ben was most cheerful and friendly, talking to us with a genuine warmth that made us feel at home immediately. He briefed us through on what was available at the resort, the activities, the restaurants and the facilities. He even helped plan our itinerary for the 3-day stay there. “It wouldn’t be just a boring beach holiday after all,” said the relieved Saucer.

The calm green waters

The jetty at PLR

Since our room was not ready yet, Ben took us for a short tour of the resort and showed us the gorgeous Sea Villas. Before long, it was time for lunch! And what perfect timing it was too, for it started to drizzle. Ah, that’s a story for another post. Til then, have a gorgeous Monday without the blues!

Saucer says Hi

Welcome to Pangkor Laut Resort

Pangkor Laut Resort
Pangkor Laut Island
32200 Lumut,
Perak, Malaysia
Tel No: +603-2783 1000
E-mail: travelcentre@ytlhotels.com.my
Website: www.pangkorlautresort.com
GPS Coordinates: N 4° 11′ 58.76″, E 100° 32′ 46.92″

For the rest of my Pangkor Laut Resort experience, check out my Pangkor Laut Resort Itinerary.

A week ago, we were invited by Puma to go for a bowling event on a Friday night. It was ages since we last went bowling, so we put on our socks and bowling shoes, and were all geared up to bowl! The launch of Puma Social was held at Cosmic Bowl, Mid Valley where they introduced us the latest social sport – none other than bowling, of course. Entitled “Here’s to the After-Hours Athlete”, it paid homage to the champions of late night games such as foosball, ping pong, darts and arcade games, and applauded accomplished individuals who enjoy the smell of victory and the agony of defeat, whilst keeping track of their life’s Scoreboard.

Puma Social Club

Here’s to the After Hours Athlete

When we reached, we were randomly assigned to different groups by different-coloured wrist tags. Their intention was to mix us all up so that we get to play with new friends and start socializing. At first, I was not used to the idea of playing with complete strangers, but once we started playing, our goal was the same – to strike!

The wrist bands

Cosmic Bowl

Aiming for a strike

Getting ready to bowl with Caroline

Halfway through the game, the emcee came and asked us to play a game of rolling the ball backwards. The one who scored the most pins would be given a prize. Guess what? Saucer won!

Bowling backwards

Rolling the ball backwards

Saucer won a Puma shirt

A group picture

“PUMA Social Club Nights, where Malaysian after-hours athletes will be given the opportunity to experience PUMA’s quirky interpretation of bowling at designated corners within each participating club. The club events will not only take place in the Klang Valley, but also in key market centres such as Penang, 2 December at Fuel, Autocity; Melaka, 9 December at Movida; Johor Bahru, 10 December at Hola Pub & Bistro; and finally, Klang Valley, 25 November at Ecoba, Damansara Perdana and 26 November, Movida, Sunway Giza. The grand finale will take place on 16 December 2011, also at Cosmic Bowl

Consumers who wish to win PUMA vouchers and score invites to the PUMA Social Finale Party will need to log on to PUMA Social’s microsite: www.puma-social.com.my. Become a fan on http://www.facebook.com/pumamalaysia for immediate updates

Good morning Thursday! I have been meaning to write about our trip to this place up in the mountains since a month ago, but there’s just always something else that came up. Here are some pictures taken from that trip, but I’m sure you would be able to guess where this was once you saw them. It’s a no-brainer! Anyway, while I wait for the rest of the 100++ pictures to be uploaded, here are some teasers. Remember, you’ve not seen the last of them yet!

The picture that gave it away

“Do you have food for me?”

Peek-a-boo!

Stay tuned for more pictures very soon!

A weekend getaway. A retreat. A private estate. A place I can call home. It was during the weekend that we took a one hour drive to the village of Janda Baik, through the winding and narrow country road, to be immersed in the beauty of nature that is Aman Rimba. To say that I was impressed would have been an understatement, for I was blown away to know that there is a 5-star class resort tucked in the middle of a laid-back kampung. Once we parked our car, someone came out from the reception area with a huge warm smile, welcoming us to this gorgeous estate. Following closely behind, another sweet lady was bearing a warm towel and a cold cucumber drink, for us. What did I tell you? I felt at home.

Towards Aman Rimba

Situated merely an hour’s drive away from the bustling metropolitan of Kuala Lumpur, Aman Rimba is nestled within the hills, the river and the natural tropical beauty to offer the essence of kampung life and serenity to those who seek it. The idea of starting a private estate came about from the wonderfully hospitable couple of Sabri and Wati. Both of them hailing from kampung, they wanted to preserve the rustic lifestyle and the safe haven that a kampung offers, to pass on to their children. Armed with an empty piece of 3-acre land, they built a suite after another, starting with the main wooden house with a room. They used this place as their weekend sanctuary, to relax, swim in the nearby river or even to have BBQ parties. Later, when the children grew up, they started bringing friends, and more people started to fall in love with this place. The rest, as they say, is history.

Aman Rimba Private Estate

The concept of Aman Rimba is selling privacy. The whole estate consists of 6 suites that can accommodate up to 20 persons.

“The entire 3-acre estate is your private home for the entire stay. We dedicate the entire place for you and your group and no strangers will be allowed in. All the 6 suites and all the facilities are only for you and your group to use.” – from the Aman Rimba website

If that is not privacy, I don’t know what is.

Reception area

The Suites

1. Sireh

Sireh is the first ever suite to be built in Aman Rimba. It is also the one that retains the most charm, from its structure on stilts, to the wooden walls and the antique decorative items within, it certainly defines kampung-living with style. It’s obvious that much thought has been given on every detail within the house. The four-poster bed is romantic and modern, while the living area is traditional and comfortable, with wooden furniture playing the main role. If you’re bored, get a book from the nearby shelf, or lie down on the comfortable couch just next to the window while listening to the birds chirp. It’s hard not to love this house.

Sireh House

Sireh – House on stilts

The cosy living area

A day bed for siesta

Books around the house

Four-poster bed

Shower under the sky

2. Serai

Situated merely a few footsteps away from the cafe is Serai, a standalone house that is surrounded by nature and has an outdoor shower to boot. They said this is the ‘old man’s home’ because it’s just so near to everything, one can practically roll out to the dining area.

Entrance to Serai House

Four poster bed in Serai

Comfortable couch

3. Halia & Kunyit

Our home for that night was at Halia, a quaint suite that can sleep up to 4 persons. There’s a four-poster double bed and another pair of twin beds, presumably for the children. What I love about this suite was how it’s surrounded by so many windows! They certainly helped to keep the room temperature low, and we did not even need to turn on the air-conditioner to sleep that night. Just next to Halia is another suite called Kunyit, which has a similar bed configuration. In all the suites, there’s a shower with an open ceiling. Certainly gives a new meaning to showering under the stars, don’t you think so?

Halia House

Double bed in Halia

Twin beds for the kids

Shower with an open ceiling

4. Kantan 1 & 2

Last but not least, a huge bungalow that’s situated in the deepest part of the estate is where Kantan 1 and Kantan 2 are. These two suites can be combined into one big unit or they can be separated via a partition in the middle, creating two standalone suites that can sleep up to 4 persons each. This majestic suite has a patio where one can sit back and chill out next to the pond, a huge living area with an LCD TV, a bedroom with a gorgeous 4-poster bed, a washroom with 2 wash basins and a bathroom with jacuzzi! What more can one ask for?

Kantan 2 entrance

Patio facing the pond

Living room

Day bed

Double bed in Kantan

Bedroom in Kantan

Who says we can’t brush our teeth together?

Jacuzzi

The Food

During our 2day-1night stay, we were spoiled with delicious food by the resident chef imported from Kelantan Delights restaurant. Staying in a kampung environment, what better way to feast other than with kampung food? We stuffed ourselves silly with Ayam Masak Hitam (black sauce chicken), Pucuk Paku (wild ferns), Sup Tulang and Sambal Machang, among others. The most memorable dish has to be the Sambal Machang, made from freshly plucked machang fruit from the orchard no less. This fruit bears resemblance to mango and has a pungent, tarty flavour that is perfect to be made into sambal together with spicy chillies. This sambal was delicious even with just white rice.

The coffee house – our dining area

Free flow of beverages and mineral water all day long

Lunch on Day 1

Delicious ayam masak hitam

Sweet golden kiwi – my new love!

During dinner, we had the Korean BBQ and Steamboat, in the company of Michael Buble’s concert playing in the big projector screen. Yes, the dining environment was rather sensational, not to mention the really cool temperature at night, circa 22 degrees C.

Korean BBQ & Steamboat for dinner

Michael Buble entertaining us on the big screen

The next morning, we were treated with a breakfast feast consisting of nasi lemak, the local favourite, breads, pastries as well as cereals. Oh, don’t forget the egg station on standby too, ready to prepare whatever eggs you want them to.

Breakfast

Breads, pastries and cereal to your heart’s content

Omelette station

Freshly fried omelette

Lunch on Day 2

The legendary Sambal Machang

While we were all lazing away, chatting and catching up, Saucer went to try his luck at fishing. The poor boy was standing under the sun for quite some time, complaining about the heavy fishing rod made from a long tree branch. But he persevered, oh yes he did. And it paid off!

Happily fishing away

He ended up with a catch of catfish in the end, just in time for lunch.

Hard work paid off!

Freshly caught catfish

Activities

Enough about the rooms and food in Aman Rimba, what about the facilities? Tucked in the middle of nowhere, what is there to do really? Well, if lazing around so close to nature is not enough, there are plenty of activities offered in Aman Rimba itself. For starters, take a dip in the swimming pool in the centre of all the suites, or take a nap in the cute hammock.

Dip in the pool or snooze in the hammock

Take a guess, what’s this room?

Back to nature

Otherwise, spend a couple of hours in the game room, completely walled with glass so it feels like you’re playing in the middle of a jungle. There’s a pool table, a foosball table, Nintendo Wii video game and board games at your disposal. Saucer and I spent quite a lot of time during the evening, playing with the Wii. We had a friendly match in bowling, tennis and even golf! It was quite fun. At night when everyone was already asleep, we also had a hand at the pool table.

The game room

Pool table

Foosball

Bowling with Nintendo Wii

The next morning after breakfast, we took a stroll down the estate and out to the surrounding area, to smell the flowers, literally. You’d be amazed at how gorgeous nature is, if you only take some time and pay attention to the wonders of it all. The colourful flowers, the buzzing bees, the rushing water – ah, it’s a completely different world from the city.

A walk to the garden

Hibiscus

What’s this yellow flower?

Spot the bee

The calm pond

Lonely white goose

“Apa khabar?” – How are you? is his favourite phrase

Located directly in front of the estate is a river with freezing cold water, flowing gently down a slope – perfect for a dip under the hot afternoon sun.

3 guys in blue

Otherwise, you can do what Kenny does best – read.

Read a book or two

Talk and laugh away with Ciki

When you have done everything you can think of doing here, just follow Motormouth’s lead and do nothing.

Signing the guest book

Sungai Benus

Needless to say, it was a much-needed weekend that rejuvenated and revitalized our body, mind and soul. To think that such a retreat exists merely an hour away from the city is almost too good to be true. Waking up to the sounds of birds chirping, sleeping with the doors unlocked, swimming in the river without a care in the world – it was all so very kampung, so very comforting.

Spot the arrow!

To get here, you can follow the GPS coordinates below, or use Klinik Desa Janda Baik as your landmark then follow the signboards from there. Be careful with the signs though, there was one with a red arrow that was quite hard to spot!

Take me home, country road

With such amazing service, quality and environment, it’s no wonder that Aman Rimba is now fully booked on all weekends until the middle of next year! For a weekend of celebration, a weekend privacy or even a weekend of solitude, this is the place for you.

Aman Rimba entrance

Estate rental starts from RM5,500 per night for up to 20 persons. Thanks to Chris for arranging such a rewarding weekend experience and to Wati and Sabri for their hospitality.

Aman Rimba Private Estate
Kampung Janda Baik
Contact No.: +6012-232 3071 / +6017-244 9646
Email: wati@amanrimba.com
Website: www.amanrimba.com
GPS Coordinates: 3° 19’41.47″N 101° 51’46.12″E

Chinese all around the world practice different customs when it comes to the wedding day. The very traditional Chinese marriage rituals have since been modified according to different countries’ customs especially for the young and modern couples. I would like to take this opportunity to share the Chinese wedding ceremony customs that the modern Malaysian Chinese families typically follow, on the actual wedding day. It was my younger brother’s wedding last weekend and I was happy to witness the whole process that started early in the morning, with both the bride and groom getting ready at their respective houses.

Bride’s father getting ready for prayers

Offerings to the Gods

On the actual wedding day, the bride would get ready with her wedding gown and wait in her room for the groom to ‘collect’ or ‘fetch’ her back to the groom’s house, a process fondly known as ‘Chip San Leong’. While waiting for the groom to arrive, the bride’s parents would set up a table of offerings for the Gods to ensure that the couple has a happy and long-lasting marriage, and to bless them on their wedding day.

Burning joss sticks

According to the auspicious time set by the fortune-teller, the groom and his entourage would arrive, accompanied with loud, blaring car horns along the way, to signify to the rest of the neighbourhood that someone is getting married! The bridal car would be parked outside the house, followed by the groom’s buddies or ‘heng tai’. The groom, however, would have to remain in the car until the bride’s brother opens the door for him.

Bridal car

The groom and his ‘heng tais’

Waiting patiently in the car

The bride’s younger brother (or cousin brother if she has no brother) would then open the groom’s car door, so that the groom could proceed to the house to see the bride.

Out of the car

But it’s not so easy! The house was locked! And all the bridesmaids (chi mui) were blocking the groom’s entourage from entering. In order to enter the house, the groom and heng tais would have to go through several ‘tests’ set up by the bridesmaids. This was done to make the ceremony more fun, and to make the groom overcome some obstacles before getting to the bride.

Bridesmaids blocking the entrance

Some of the games played that day included finishing up a plate of sandwiches. Now they might look very yummy from the outside, but these bridesmaids had put in various ingredients that made the sandwich taste quite horrible. Perhaps this was a test to the groom so that in the future, no matter what his wife cooks, he’ll have to finish it!

Sandwiches for the groom and his brothers

Thick layer of salt! and a slice of lemon among others

Cheers

Very salty!

After the sandwiches, they were made to drink glasses of weird-looking drinks. True to their spirits, the guys lived up to expectations and finished the gross-looking beverage.

What is this?

Would you drink it?

Wonder how it tasted

The eating and drinking was just the beginning of a series of tests. Soon, the girls prepared a layer of cling film patterned with tomato ketchup on both sides. The task now was for the guys to lick the ketchup clean, on both sides of the film! And they had to do it simultaneously.

Cling film with tomato ketchup

Licking it clean

The guys completed the task well and thought they could enter the house, but no, there was another task in store.

No entry… yet!

Each guy was to put on lipstick on their lips, and make an ‘I <3 U’ sentence by kissing on pieces of paper pasted on the groom’s body.

Applying lipstick

Kiss the paper

Getting carried away with kissing…

The final product

Soon, all the bridesmaids were inside the house, a sign that they were ready to let the groom enter, but only after a little reward. This was when the groom’s brothers would help to negotiate a price with the bridesmaids, reaching an agreement such that they would be allowed to enter the house.

A red packet for the bridesmaids to open the door

First stage passed!

Little did they know that there were still a couple of challenges awaiting them inside the house, before the bride’s room! The first task was to kiss the word ‘Angie’ on the papers pasted on the wall. Based on their previous experience, the guys were already expert in this!

Teamwork is crucial

Finally, the last task that morning was for the groom to painstakingly peel the skin of some grapes, as a sign that he would do so for the bride in the future – and to be a patient, loving and kind husband.

Peeling the grapes with concentration

While peeling the grapes, the groom was asked to give “20 reasons why I love Angie” and he had to say it loud enough that the bride could hear it from the room. When she was finally satisfied, the door was unlocked.

“I love Angie because…”

Let’s go in!

Mission accomplished!

Kiss the bride

The newly-weds

with the bridesmaids and groomsmen

After fetching the bride from the room, they now had to go through the Chinese Tea Ceremony, where they would serve tea to their parents as a sign of getting their blessing.

Tea ceremony

In return, the parents would usually give something to the newly-weds, usually in the form of jewelry.

Gold ring for the groom

Bracelet for the bride

Tea would also be served to other elder relatives of the bride, with the sequence following their seniority in the family. For relatives younger than the bride, tea would not be served, instead it was a shake of hands or a hug.

Hugs for younger relatives of the family

When the tea ceremony was completed, it was time to go back to the groom’s house, where the groom’s family would be waiting to welcome the new bride home.

Father of the bride holds an umbrella as a sign of protecting the bride

To the groom’s house

In the bridal suite

Over at the groom’s family, the same prayers and rituals were repeated. It was then followed by another Tea Ceremony, for the groom’s family and relatives.

Tea with red dates for a sweet marriage

Tea for the groom’s parents

Look at how happy they were – bottoms up!

Jewelry for the newly-weds

After the tea ceremony was completed, relatives and friends were treated to a light lunch before they left to get ready for the banquet dinner at night. The whole morning was filled with activities that everything seemed to happen so quickly. My brother is now officially married, and I hereby welcome Angie to the family as my new sister-in-law.

Congratulations to my brother and his wife, Angie!

For those of you who have met me before, your first impression of me would be “You’re so tall!”. And you wouldn’t be the first. Ever since my teenage years, I have always been the tallest girl in the class. To be honest, I used to be ashamed of my height. Nobody really laughed or made fun of me in class, but I always felt different from the others, sticking out like a sore thumb. Whenever there were dance performances, as much as I wanted to take part, I couldn’t, because my extra height would make the dance formation look weird. During assembly, when we had to queue up at the hall, I always had to be the last one in line due to my height. Also, when we had dance balls during secondary school, no guys would ask me to dance because really, they’d look like midgets next to me.

Thankfully, when I started going to university, I got to know more people from different parts of the country, and I was told over and over again that my height was perfect to be a model. Back then, I always thought that models had to be super skinny, beautiful and had lots of fashion sense, all of which I didn’t have. So I just brushed the comments aside. When I started working, I went through the same ordeal again, with people asking me to go and try out with modeling, and some even asked me to join pageants. I guess no one really pushed me or convinced me enough, plus I did not know where to start, so I did not go ahead with it.

with Amber Chia

Until one night, a couple of weeks back, I was fortunate to have dinner with Amber Chia, a super model that needs to introduction. Surprisingly she was really down-to-earth and friendly! Before we left the dinner, I asked for a picture and that was when she noticed my height. She immediately said that she loved my height and asked me to see her at her academy, while passing me her card. Of course, to get such a comment from her was flattering, although I still did not have the intention of going down the modeling line. Saucer, who witnessed this, kept asking me to call her the next day, but I was just too shy! Days later, I chatted with my best buddy online and when she found out about the incident, she immediately exclaimed “GO! What are you waiting for? This is a chance of lifetime!”. I guess that was the push needed, for I found myself calling Amber that night, and the rest, as they say, is history.

Amber Chia Academy

Therefore, I’m now a student (again) at Amber Chia Modeling Academy (ACA)! It’s such an unexpected twist of fate for me that I have to document it down, so I hope you don’t mind reading through my reflections every week. It’s going to last for just 6 weeks, for now. So bear with me!

ACA lounge

How do I feel now? I just went to the first class on Tuesday, and met a group of young and spirited people who inspire to be professional models. Seeing their enthusiasm and excitement fueled me to carry on with this class in an upbeat mood. Due to my less-than-ideal age, I don’t have very big dreams in this path, but just to learn on how to carry myself better, with more confidence and perhaps, to strike the runway at least once.

Make up area

The good thing about this academy is that it will accept people from all ages as students. I had a conversation with Amber before I joined the class and her vision is to provide an avenue for people who want to be a model but do not know where to start, as well as to help people build their confidence, regardless of their age. So, if you’re interested, stay tuned to my documentaries every week, where I will be detailing my experience in the classes, with no holds barred.

The 4 colours of basic heels

Our first class was taught by Benjamin Toong, who is a catwalk guru well-known in the industry. He is apparently the only person who could walk with a pair of 9-inch heels! Speaking of heels, all of the students are required to wear 5.5 inches heels during class, custom-made from ACA. 5.5 inches! All my life, the highest pair of heels I’ve ever worn was only 3 inches high, and even then I only did so for less than 5 times. I can’t imagine walking in this super high heels for the next few weeks!

The catwalk studio

The first class was more to introduction, where we got to know the students and their aspirations, as well as what are the models Do’s and Don’ts. I just have to say, Ben is a funny trainer with a sense of sarcasm. I can foresee classes with him to be very interesting and noisy, filled with laughter. One of his quotes that I remember very well:

“Models are sales persons! The difference is they sell products without speaking.”

How very apt.

The class schedule

Did you also know that the standard gown measurements for models is 32″ – 25″ – 36″? Apparently, this is the standard size when fashion designers tailor their gowns, so if you’re not around this size, you’ve got some work to do!

Ben briefing on the runway terms

The difference between the main stage and the runway

The first class is over but we’re given some homework to do: To walk and familiarize with our 5.5-inch heels at home! I have tried and let me tell you, it’s not easy. Let’s just hope practice does make it perfect.

Amber Chia Academy heels

My pair of 5.5-inch heels

What do you think of my little twist? I hope you guys support me in this decision of mine, for an experience of a lifetime. Of course, posts on food will still be coming in (I still need to eat! ). Wish me luck and stay tuned for my next class update!

Amber Chia Academy

*Studio pictures courtesy of Amber Chia Academy

Complete series of my modeling stories:

1. An Unexpected Twist
2. Basics of Catwalk
3. Guest Instructor at the Academy
4. The Correct Facial Expression
5. First Video of Modeling Students
6. Fashion Sense & Trends with Keith Kee
7. Posing & Expression with Amber Chia
8. First Impressions & Communication Skills of A Model
9. A Model’s Diet
10. Hair Care Tips
11. Basics of Nude Look Makeup
12. Smoky Eyes Unveiled!

]]> http://www.iamthewitch.com/2011/07/14/unexpected-twist/feed/ 39 http://www.iamthewitch.com/2011/07/12/free-coway-water-softener-sunway-lagoon/ http://www.iamthewitch.com/2011/07/12/free-coway-water-softener-sunway-lagoon/#comments Tue, 12 Jul 2011 02:06:31 +0000 iamthewitch http://www.iamthewitch.com/?p=4545

The last time I had fun in the water at Sunway Lagoon must have been more than 10 years ago, when the theme park was new and incomplete. Last week, I was lucky to be invited to the launch of Coway Spa Water Softener that took place in Sunway Lagoon itself.  Coway, the leading home-wellness appliances manufacturer from Korea has installed 48 units of Spa Water Softener at the water theme park to enable Malaysians to experience the wonders of soft water for free.

Welcome to Sunway Lagoon

The Coway booth

Coway Spa Water Softener

What are the benefits  of soft water?

• Increases skin moisture level by as much as 69%
• Reduces dead skin cells
• Decreases skin friction by 20%
• Soften hair and scalp
• Reduces dandruff
• Higher soapiness

Compare the difference between tap water and soft water

The Coway Spa Water Softener claims to transform the tap water to soft water, making it a healthier option for the body while ensuring smoother, softer skin within 2 weeks. The water softener is equipped with a composite filter within to remove chlorine, germs and floating substances from tap water while its Ion Exchange Resin reduces the hardness of tap water.

Coway Spa Water Softener

The 48 preview units were installed in some of the shower rooms in Sunway Lagoon and will be available for a period of 3 months. I tried showering with the soft water and indeed, the chlorine level is much lower than regular tap water.

Some other Coway products – air purifier

The Coway Spa Water Softener retails at RM1,900 or is available for rental at RM70 per month, including a bi-monthly product maintenance service. If you would like to try it before purchasing, you can sign up for Coway’s exclusive 14-day trial period for free.

Best-selling Coway Bidet seat

Some local celebrities were invited to the launching event, including Ning Baizura and 988 DJ Sam.

Ning Baizura speaking of her experience with Coway Spa Water Softener

Reflexology for booth visitors

Sand art

After the launch, the few of us spent the afternoon at Sunway Lagoon, starting with a hand at Archery.

Eric and Saucer trying out at Archery

Spot my spray-on tattoo!

Then, we made our way to the World’s Longest Pedestrian Suspension Bridge in the world, crossing from one end to the other – 428m! This was where Caroline had to face her fear of height while I took the opportunity to snap some gorgeous pictures from above.

World’s Longest Suspension Bridge

Hanging on to dear life Eric

To be honest, some of the parts of the bridge were pretty scary because the metal bars on the floor gave me the feeling of insecurity. But of course, it’s all an illusion. We managed to cross it in the end, all of us.

The see-through floor

View from the bridge #1

View from the bridge #2

View from the bridge #3

witch on the bridge

We then moved on to Wagon on Wheels, which is a small-scale Ferris Wheel. Over here, you’d see Caroline feeling more relieved and happy.

Caroline & Eric

Before we moved on to the water theme park, the guys went on the scary Pirates Revenge – Malaysia’s first 360-degree Rotating Pirate Ship! Needless to say, timid people like me wouldn’t be up there. Spot the guys in one of the rows!

Screaming in the ship

360-degree overturned pirate ship

It was overall a fun and eventful day, not to mention the water slides that we played after. No pictures of the water park since all our cameras were kept inside the locker by then. The fun in the sun was all thanks to Coway! For more information on Coway, visit www.coway.com.my or contact 1-800-888-111 or www.facebook.com/CowayMalaysia.

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