Actually I knew this result on Thursday before my blood test on Friday... becos my menses came :(
In fact this time it is heavier than normal. My mood was immediately affected. I was deeply upset. I know I had expected failure but I was having good feeling that it should succeed after everything had went smoothly prior. Egg stimulation was ok, 13 eggs retrieved and managed to have 8 matured. Ovulation stimulation was ok as well. Fertilisation of the embryo was fine too. Managed to fertilise 5 and while 2 were inseminated into me, the grade of both embryo were quite good. One being grade 5 (best possible) and another grade 3. Stimulate lining to support the embryo was also ok, the blood test result came out just fine. So why when it comes to the last juncture that the embryos supposed to latch on, it fails. Such disappointment.
Anyway I was being told to still go for my blood test as there is a possibility that while one embryo is unsuccessful, the other one might be ok. But I know, it's not possible afterall the menses is here.
But the beta-HCG result came out weird. Reading of less than 1.5 will render a negative result while reading of more than 250 will be positive. Mine is 18. I'd reminded the nurse again that I'd already having my menses. The nurse explained that the embryo might be outside the uterus! Anyway I have being told to go for another blood test next Monday morning.
Does this mean there is still a chance? But what's the point if it is outside the uterus, it will be ectopic pregnancy which I understand can be dangerous and it usually means that there will be higher risk of ectopic pregnancy for future pregnancies. So for this case, perhaps a negative result will be preferred?
Saturday, October 22, 2011
Thursday, October 20, 2011
Food!!! - Hong Kong & Macau - Aug 2011
Hong Kong is supposedly known for their food. Though we did not really try alot but here's a few:
鸡蛋糕
They smell so nice but taste wise, so-so only. Or could it be the one that I buy from, hmm, but I doubt so.
Nathan Hotel Buffet Breakfast
Please do not bother to try this. Or rather for hubby and myself, this is easily the worst meal we had for this vacation. The spread is lousy and they are not efficient to top up the food that is running low or rather finished.
Euro Go Go - Ngong Ping Village
Baked Pasta with Tuna and Baked Pasta with Chicken
Food served in aluminium container, looks like instant food. However not fussy eater, the food are not too bad.
Macau Restaurant - Tsim Sha Tsui near iTower Shopping Centre
Macaroni, Pork Chop Bun and Portugese Egg Tart
Portion abit small but taste waste still not too bad. Though probably not the best we have in Hong Kong.
Australian Diary Company - MTR Jordan, Exit C2, walk down one block and turn left
After some online research, I found that there have being quite alot of mentions for this place and since this is near our hotel, it will be silly not to try. Sadly I was disappointed, the food is too salty. If you want to dine in comfort, it is almost impossible. Sharing seats seemed to be almost a must.
Their set comes with macaroni, bread and egg, and drink.
I realised their hot milk tea does not come with sugar, you need to add as to your preference. Cold one though already come sweetened. But I dun fancy Hong Kong's milk tea, perhaps as hubby put it, the milk taste overwhelmed the tea.
Hulu Cafe - 2 streets from Nathan Hotel
Prawn Pasta with Spicy Tomato and Seafood Baked Rice
Portion is big! Both hubby and myself enjoyed this meal. Not crowded at all and hence you can eat in peace and comfortable to sit around.
Their Steak set meal seemed quite a good deal too, about S$30 plus.
Tsui Wah 翠华
A popular chain of Cha Cang Ting (茶藏厅) which can be easily found! There's one near both hotels, Nathan Hotel and Butterfly on Wellington.
We first tried Tsui Wah near Nathan Hotel. Check out the breakfast set. We prefer this to the one ADC.
We checked out late dinner at the Tsui Wah near Butterfly on Wellington. Macaroni with Egg and Fishball Soup.
Altira Hotel - Room Service and Breakfast set
Carbonara, BBQ Platter, Custard Bun and Hasma Dessert... Yummilious
Breakfast is alot!!! Nonetheless good!
Da Ka Lok 大家乐
Another Cha Cang Ting branch commonly seen in Hong Kong. Though seemed less popular as compared to Tsui Wah, the meal here is not too bad for a fast meal. Of course, do not expect to be blown away by our Baked Spaghetti and BBQ Platter.
Lian Xiang Lou 莲香楼
A taste for some dim sum in a traditional setting? You can still see aunties pushing out carts of dim sum for your selection. A card will be given and after you select your dishes, a stamp will be stamped thereafter you will make payment basis this card.
Hui Lau Shan 许留山
Famous for mango-related dessert. Trying to be adventurous, we tried the birds' nest hasma with egg custard and can never go wrong mango pudding. I was kindda disappointed with the birds' nest dish. So I ordered mango juice, this, I will strong recommend. It's really good!
Yung Kee Restaurant 庸记
Roast goose is a must try for this restaurant! Though be prepared to pay a price for this price.
Fung Wah 丰华
Just a few units away from Butterfly on Wellington, we decided to give this cafe a shot. Verdict: Please go to Tsui Wah instead.
鸡蛋糕
They smell so nice but taste wise, so-so only. Or could it be the one that I buy from, hmm, but I doubt so.
Nathan Hotel Buffet Breakfast
Please do not bother to try this. Or rather for hubby and myself, this is easily the worst meal we had for this vacation. The spread is lousy and they are not efficient to top up the food that is running low or rather finished.
Euro Go Go - Ngong Ping Village
Baked Pasta with Tuna and Baked Pasta with Chicken
Food served in aluminium container, looks like instant food. However not fussy eater, the food are not too bad.
Macau Restaurant - Tsim Sha Tsui near iTower Shopping Centre
Macaroni, Pork Chop Bun and Portugese Egg Tart
Portion abit small but taste waste still not too bad. Though probably not the best we have in Hong Kong.
Australian Diary Company - MTR Jordan, Exit C2, walk down one block and turn left
After some online research, I found that there have being quite alot of mentions for this place and since this is near our hotel, it will be silly not to try. Sadly I was disappointed, the food is too salty. If you want to dine in comfort, it is almost impossible. Sharing seats seemed to be almost a must.
Their set comes with macaroni, bread and egg, and drink.
I realised their hot milk tea does not come with sugar, you need to add as to your preference. Cold one though already come sweetened. But I dun fancy Hong Kong's milk tea, perhaps as hubby put it, the milk taste overwhelmed the tea.
Hulu Cafe - 2 streets from Nathan Hotel
Prawn Pasta with Spicy Tomato and Seafood Baked Rice
Portion is big! Both hubby and myself enjoyed this meal. Not crowded at all and hence you can eat in peace and comfortable to sit around.
Their Steak set meal seemed quite a good deal too, about S$30 plus.
Tsui Wah 翠华
A popular chain of Cha Cang Ting (茶藏厅) which can be easily found! There's one near both hotels, Nathan Hotel and Butterfly on Wellington.
We first tried Tsui Wah near Nathan Hotel. Check out the breakfast set. We prefer this to the one ADC.
We checked out late dinner at the Tsui Wah near Butterfly on Wellington. Macaroni with Egg and Fishball Soup.
Altira Hotel - Room Service and Breakfast set
Carbonara, BBQ Platter, Custard Bun and Hasma Dessert... Yummilious
Breakfast is alot!!! Nonetheless good!
Da Ka Lok 大家乐
Another Cha Cang Ting branch commonly seen in Hong Kong. Though seemed less popular as compared to Tsui Wah, the meal here is not too bad for a fast meal. Of course, do not expect to be blown away by our Baked Spaghetti and BBQ Platter.
Lian Xiang Lou 莲香楼
A taste for some dim sum in a traditional setting? You can still see aunties pushing out carts of dim sum for your selection. A card will be given and after you select your dishes, a stamp will be stamped thereafter you will make payment basis this card.
Hui Lau Shan 许留山
Famous for mango-related dessert. Trying to be adventurous, we tried the birds' nest hasma with egg custard and can never go wrong mango pudding. I was kindda disappointed with the birds' nest dish. So I ordered mango juice, this, I will strong recommend. It's really good!
Yung Kee Restaurant 庸记
Roast goose is a must try for this restaurant! Though be prepared to pay a price for this price.
Fung Wah 丰华
Just a few units away from Butterfly on Wellington, we decided to give this cafe a shot. Verdict: Please go to Tsui Wah instead.
Hotels Stay - HK & Macau - Aug 2011
During our stay in Hong Kong and Macau, we stayed at:
1) Nathan Hotel along Nathan Road
We had 3 nights stay in this hotel's superior room.
The room is small. Nothing like from what is featured in their website. Nonethless it's comfortable enough for a sleep-in and a quick shower. Cleanliness, perhaps of the carpet and the woody colour, it does not give a clean and bright feel. Though bedsheets and towels are made and changed daily. Complimentary bottled mineral water are provided for on a daily basis. Although no other drinks, there's fridge and water boiler where you can buy your own bottled drinks or boil your own water. However please do not stay in the room near the lift, it's very noisy. Hotel Breakfast can also be passed.
A good plus for this hotel is that it is about 5 minutes (or less) walk to Jordan MTR station which to me is important. We travelled around Hong Kong mainly be train. Hence accessibility to a train station is a good plus. Food and shopping around the hotel is also not a problem.
Complimentary WIFI is provided for. However does not seem to work with my iPhone, it does work perfect with my netbook. Cool!
This place cost us:
08/06/2011 = HKD 1,450
08/07/2011 = HKD 1,100
08/08/2011 = HKD 1,100
Breakfast = HKD 140 (for 2 pax for 1 day)
10% Tax = HKD 379
Total = HKD 4,169
2) Altira Macau
I love this room! Though not the location.. It's off the main district, across another island. But it is indeed fantastic for a good relaxation which is hubby's main purpose.
Room is really spacious and service is superb! I still remember receiving an email from them at Changi Airport before we flew for Hong Kong. They basically required some details to enable a quick check-in as well as arrange for a complimentary ferry transfer for us. Thumbs up! No worries if the ferry timing is still not fixed, they require a day notice hence once you confirmed your ferry timing, just dropped them an email to inform them, they will arrange the rest.
Since this place is hardly accessible and with such fantastic room, we basically glued ourselves in the room.
Again, free complimentary WIFI, Yippeee!!!
This room is costly, but as compared to Singapore's equivalent Capella (or could even be better than Capella which cost more than $600 per night):
08/09/2011 = HKD 1,800
10% Service Charge + 5% Govt Tax = HKD 270
Total = HKD 2,070
(given the exchange rate we had at that time: approx SGD 1=HKD 6; this is a mere SGD 345 as compared to Capella SGD 600+ !!)
3) Butterfly on Wellington
Not surprising, the room is small. In fact I think smaller than Nathan Hotel but it has a cleaner feel. Of course the price is also more expensive, wonder is it because of the location. It is even more expensive than Altira!
Boutique Hotel with China decoration. Also located at a convenient location, though a slighter further walk to the Central MTR station. Of course, party animals will be happy since it is relatively near to Lam Kwong Fang. But those who yearn abit of peace, fret not, the noise and crowd does not spill over to this street. Apparently they have more famous food near here. Yung Kee, famous for the roasted goose is indeed a must try.
Complimentary WIFI too! Hahahaa! I am a happy gal!
Most expensive stay:
08/10/2011 = HKD 2,520
10% Tax = HKD 252
Total = HKD 2,772
1) Nathan Hotel along Nathan Road
We had 3 nights stay in this hotel's superior room.
The room is small. Nothing like from what is featured in their website. Nonethless it's comfortable enough for a sleep-in and a quick shower. Cleanliness, perhaps of the carpet and the woody colour, it does not give a clean and bright feel. Though bedsheets and towels are made and changed daily. Complimentary bottled mineral water are provided for on a daily basis. Although no other drinks, there's fridge and water boiler where you can buy your own bottled drinks or boil your own water. However please do not stay in the room near the lift, it's very noisy. Hotel Breakfast can also be passed.
A good plus for this hotel is that it is about 5 minutes (or less) walk to Jordan MTR station which to me is important. We travelled around Hong Kong mainly be train. Hence accessibility to a train station is a good plus. Food and shopping around the hotel is also not a problem.
Complimentary WIFI is provided for. However does not seem to work with my iPhone, it does work perfect with my netbook. Cool!
This place cost us:
08/06/2011 = HKD 1,450
08/07/2011 = HKD 1,100
08/08/2011 = HKD 1,100
Breakfast = HKD 140 (for 2 pax for 1 day)
10% Tax = HKD 379
Total = HKD 4,169
2) Altira Macau
I love this room! Though not the location.. It's off the main district, across another island. But it is indeed fantastic for a good relaxation which is hubby's main purpose.
Room is really spacious and service is superb! I still remember receiving an email from them at Changi Airport before we flew for Hong Kong. They basically required some details to enable a quick check-in as well as arrange for a complimentary ferry transfer for us. Thumbs up! No worries if the ferry timing is still not fixed, they require a day notice hence once you confirmed your ferry timing, just dropped them an email to inform them, they will arrange the rest.
Since this place is hardly accessible and with such fantastic room, we basically glued ourselves in the room.
Again, free complimentary WIFI, Yippeee!!!
This room is costly, but as compared to Singapore's equivalent Capella (or could even be better than Capella which cost more than $600 per night):
08/09/2011 = HKD 1,800
10% Service Charge + 5% Govt Tax = HKD 270
Total = HKD 2,070
(given the exchange rate we had at that time: approx SGD 1=HKD 6; this is a mere SGD 345 as compared to Capella SGD 600+ !!)
3) Butterfly on Wellington
Not surprising, the room is small. In fact I think smaller than Nathan Hotel but it has a cleaner feel. Of course the price is also more expensive, wonder is it because of the location. It is even more expensive than Altira!
Boutique Hotel with China decoration. Also located at a convenient location, though a slighter further walk to the Central MTR station. Of course, party animals will be happy since it is relatively near to Lam Kwong Fang. But those who yearn abit of peace, fret not, the noise and crowd does not spill over to this street. Apparently they have more famous food near here. Yung Kee, famous for the roasted goose is indeed a must try.
Complimentary WIFI too! Hahahaa! I am a happy gal!
Most expensive stay:
08/10/2011 = HKD 2,520
10% Tax = HKD 252
Total = HKD 2,772
It's Being A Long While...
Being a long while.. 3 weeks of hospitalisation leave is coming to an end soon. Tomorrow I shall go for my blood test and from there we will know if this IVF/ICSI is a success or not.
Let's talk about what I have being up to past 2-3 weeks, and if I am not too lazy, I will finally touch on the postings for my HK trip (way way long overdue) and perhaps my IVF/ICSI journey.
I'd rented 2 HK drama serials which I'd managed to complete both yesterday. 3 storybooks were borrowed from the library and of which 2 were already completed.
Last week, perhaps too much bed rest and with my bad posture, my neck condition came back with a vengeance. The pain came on Sunday and I was praying that it will not get worse. But sadly, it aggravated till I cannot even get in and out of bed properly. Sleeping was a problem as I was in constant pain. I emailed by gynae if I could go for massage. I was considering going to Feng but I understand most will not approved given my current condition as I could be pregnant by now. Sadly Dr. Loh did not reply to my email despite my second reminder. Guessed he was too busy or he could already be away as I read in the forum he will be on 2 weeks leave.
Nonetheless, I finally went to my GP on Wednesday and asked for her advice. She basically said the same as chiropractic is not a governed body and hence even if I go to a licensed physician, it is still not advisable. She told me to go for physio and take some panadol. Initially I was desperate enough to want to take a chance with Feng but he told me it's a risk he will not want to take as well. Shucks, but thankfully TTSH managed to fit me in for a physio session on Thursday. Finally, I am on the road of recovery! Phew!
So now, I shall enjoy the balance of the leave by watching TV, blogging, reading and shall be back to face the world next week.
Sabbie had finally tendered, she is going to leave the company soon. While i will be sad by her impending departure but I will be happy for her as long as she gets what she wants. When will be my turn? Should I have rejected Totsa previously? Truthfully, there was no regrets for not accepting the offer then. I just went for an interview with a company I had being hoping to work for on Monday. Oh, there was an hiccups to that too! Haaa, the dates were mixed-up but thankfully they managed to resolve the issue and fit me in on Monday. Better Monday than Thursday. I do not like interview though I do not think I did badly for it. But still hoping to get my dream job makes me more nervous. However a few concerns crossed my mind.
1) Job on offer is actually a junior position. I am far from being a junior anymore. With about 8 years of experience in the industry, I am almost considered senior in most company. However if the company is willing to match my current, I do not mind the title. I know I will be able to gain recognition. I heard quite abit of the team lead, I believe I can work well with her. Better her than the one in my current one. In fact, with her entry, combination of both her and my manager makes the place a torturous to work in. I am not eager to go back to work at all. Hubby is agreeable that I should just throw in my letter no matter on the outcome. He knows I will not be happy. Should I? Or please, let me get this dream job. Let them accept me even if I am pregnant.
2) But is it too harsh to both companies. I have this belief that I should not fall pregnant at least during the first year with any new company. It will only be fair to the new colleagues. However, somehow with the dream job of mine, I feel ok. Perhaps cause I know one of the gals and she is aware of my position. In fact she has being encouraging me to give it a try despite me currently going through IVF/ICSI. With the support felt, I guess I have less worries on that. Anyway will I really get it? (I hope so, hee!!)
For my current company, we had a team of 4. 1 was recently let go, to me, unfairly. Another 1 just tendered. So now we are down to 2, the team lead and me. It will seem very bad to just leave her in the lurch. But I know my manager will be employing and judging by the way she chooses her candidates, I am doubtful on my ability to get along. She is building up an army, her own groupies, which I do not belong and do not want to be belonged. Will I be happy? So better my own happiness than theirs, right?
Anyway think too much will also be useless. I need to know the outcome tomorrow. Will I get pregnant? If so, of course, please pray that he/she/they will be healthy. Will I get selected for my dream job? So let's see.
Ok, I shall end my post here. It's a long one. Let's hope I can have all my answers soon.
Let's talk about what I have being up to past 2-3 weeks, and if I am not too lazy, I will finally touch on the postings for my HK trip (way way long overdue) and perhaps my IVF/ICSI journey.
I'd rented 2 HK drama serials which I'd managed to complete both yesterday. 3 storybooks were borrowed from the library and of which 2 were already completed.
Last week, perhaps too much bed rest and with my bad posture, my neck condition came back with a vengeance. The pain came on Sunday and I was praying that it will not get worse. But sadly, it aggravated till I cannot even get in and out of bed properly. Sleeping was a problem as I was in constant pain. I emailed by gynae if I could go for massage. I was considering going to Feng but I understand most will not approved given my current condition as I could be pregnant by now. Sadly Dr. Loh did not reply to my email despite my second reminder. Guessed he was too busy or he could already be away as I read in the forum he will be on 2 weeks leave.
Nonetheless, I finally went to my GP on Wednesday and asked for her advice. She basically said the same as chiropractic is not a governed body and hence even if I go to a licensed physician, it is still not advisable. She told me to go for physio and take some panadol. Initially I was desperate enough to want to take a chance with Feng but he told me it's a risk he will not want to take as well. Shucks, but thankfully TTSH managed to fit me in for a physio session on Thursday. Finally, I am on the road of recovery! Phew!
So now, I shall enjoy the balance of the leave by watching TV, blogging, reading and shall be back to face the world next week.
Sabbie had finally tendered, she is going to leave the company soon. While i will be sad by her impending departure but I will be happy for her as long as she gets what she wants. When will be my turn? Should I have rejected Totsa previously? Truthfully, there was no regrets for not accepting the offer then. I just went for an interview with a company I had being hoping to work for on Monday. Oh, there was an hiccups to that too! Haaa, the dates were mixed-up but thankfully they managed to resolve the issue and fit me in on Monday. Better Monday than Thursday. I do not like interview though I do not think I did badly for it. But still hoping to get my dream job makes me more nervous. However a few concerns crossed my mind.
1) Job on offer is actually a junior position. I am far from being a junior anymore. With about 8 years of experience in the industry, I am almost considered senior in most company. However if the company is willing to match my current, I do not mind the title. I know I will be able to gain recognition. I heard quite abit of the team lead, I believe I can work well with her. Better her than the one in my current one. In fact, with her entry, combination of both her and my manager makes the place a torturous to work in. I am not eager to go back to work at all. Hubby is agreeable that I should just throw in my letter no matter on the outcome. He knows I will not be happy. Should I? Or please, let me get this dream job. Let them accept me even if I am pregnant.
2) But is it too harsh to both companies. I have this belief that I should not fall pregnant at least during the first year with any new company. It will only be fair to the new colleagues. However, somehow with the dream job of mine, I feel ok. Perhaps cause I know one of the gals and she is aware of my position. In fact she has being encouraging me to give it a try despite me currently going through IVF/ICSI. With the support felt, I guess I have less worries on that. Anyway will I really get it? (I hope so, hee!!)
For my current company, we had a team of 4. 1 was recently let go, to me, unfairly. Another 1 just tendered. So now we are down to 2, the team lead and me. It will seem very bad to just leave her in the lurch. But I know my manager will be employing and judging by the way she chooses her candidates, I am doubtful on my ability to get along. She is building up an army, her own groupies, which I do not belong and do not want to be belonged. Will I be happy? So better my own happiness than theirs, right?
Anyway think too much will also be useless. I need to know the outcome tomorrow. Will I get pregnant? If so, of course, please pray that he/she/they will be healthy. Will I get selected for my dream job? So let's see.
Ok, I shall end my post here. It's a long one. Let's hope I can have all my answers soon.
Friday, September 23, 2011
Today is the day..
Today is the day that we will embark on the journey to attempt to conceive by assisted way... ICSI
Went to KK to get the scan done, thereafter I need to fill up some forms to give my permission to use my Medisave. Next, went down the the pharmacy to collect the jabs, folic acid for myself and antibiotics for hubby. Came back up to the IVF centre where the nurse showed us how to do.
Thoughts: I really freaked for a moment when I saw the needle. I was hoping that it will be a pen jab kind which it is (thank goodness it is not a syringe!) But.... the needle is really long! Wails!
Please please, bless me that we can succeed this time! Please!
Went to KK to get the scan done, thereafter I need to fill up some forms to give my permission to use my Medisave. Next, went down the the pharmacy to collect the jabs, folic acid for myself and antibiotics for hubby. Came back up to the IVF centre where the nurse showed us how to do.
Thoughts: I really freaked for a moment when I saw the needle. I was hoping that it will be a pen jab kind which it is (thank goodness it is not a syringe!) But.... the needle is really long! Wails!
Please please, bless me that we can succeed this time! Please!
Tuesday, September 20, 2011
Hi World!
Being so long... so much to update but yet either I am lazy or bz!
Soon soon.. I will update more abt HK..
Btw, today is the last day for my teammate. Sudden and quite sad as the leaving is not by choice. I wish the company is more empathetic but guess not. Oh well!
BRB... hopefully not too long =P
Ciao and cheers world!
Soon soon.. I will update more abt HK..
Btw, today is the last day for my teammate. Sudden and quite sad as the leaving is not by choice. I wish the company is more empathetic but guess not. Oh well!
BRB... hopefully not too long =P
Ciao and cheers world!
Sunday, August 28, 2011
President
Result is out.. Singapore's new president is ......... Tony Tan
I am a bad citizen that actually holds no regard to who our president really is. Somehow this position seemed to be there only as a figurehead. Smile smile, shake hand, wave at public. Hmmm...
Hence I am not particularly interested on who becomes our president.
However perhaps this new president can prove me wrong. He is there for a good reason, besides merely be what I'd mentioned. So we shall see.
I am a bad citizen that actually holds no regard to who our president really is. Somehow this position seemed to be there only as a figurehead. Smile smile, shake hand, wave at public. Hmmm...
Hence I am not particularly interested on who becomes our president.
However perhaps this new president can prove me wrong. He is there for a good reason, besides merely be what I'd mentioned. So we shall see.
Wednesday, August 17, 2011
Viral Infection, NOT Dengue
Being feeling feverish since last Thursday, when still in Hong Kong! Though not high fever, but the temperature always range from 37.0 to 37.5 degree celcius. This is higher than my normal temperature which even on the high side is only about 36.7
Hubby decided that I must go and see the doctor since a week had passed and the condition still the same.
Went to the doc, she advised to run some blood test. She's afraid could be dengue fever since it's on the rampant these days but I am not overly concerned since I understand dengue fever usually involves high fever and body aching which I have neither.
Finally the blood test is out around 5pm! I'm clear from dengue! Likely viral infection so my body is fighting it hence the feverish. Phew!
Looks like I need to pop a couple of panadol afterall to aid my body on the fight! Let's win this battle!
Hubby decided that I must go and see the doctor since a week had passed and the condition still the same.
Went to the doc, she advised to run some blood test. She's afraid could be dengue fever since it's on the rampant these days but I am not overly concerned since I understand dengue fever usually involves high fever and body aching which I have neither.
Finally the blood test is out around 5pm! I'm clear from dengue! Likely viral infection so my body is fighting it hence the feverish. Phew!
Looks like I need to pop a couple of panadol afterall to aid my body on the fight! Let's win this battle!
Monday, August 15, 2011
Aug 12 2011 - Back in Singapore
A late post... Was back last Friday, 12th Aug 2011
Since we need to check out in noon, we just went for a relatively late breakfast, about 10am at the Cha Cang Ting near our hotel, Fung Wah. Definitely compared to Tsui Wah, their breakfast is quite a far cry.
Shopped around abit, grabbed some more titbits and back to the hotel we go. Lazing around to wait for time to pass.
Quick check-out and they helped us to hail a cab. Before we know it, we are at the airport already. Flight is 3.20pm. Seemed like a long time more. But... stopover to grab some interesting flavoured collon (bird nest with coconut and mango pudding). Checked in our luggage and checked in. More shopping at Zara and it's time!
Time flies. Before we know it, we are back in Singapore. No one come to pick us up. Sob! Hahaaa, but it's actually my parents-in-law thought our flight is tomorrow. What a boo-boo!
Overall, quite enjoy this trip! Yeah!
Since we need to check out in noon, we just went for a relatively late breakfast, about 10am at the Cha Cang Ting near our hotel, Fung Wah. Definitely compared to Tsui Wah, their breakfast is quite a far cry.
Shopped around abit, grabbed some more titbits and back to the hotel we go. Lazing around to wait for time to pass.
Quick check-out and they helped us to hail a cab. Before we know it, we are at the airport already. Flight is 3.20pm. Seemed like a long time more. But... stopover to grab some interesting flavoured collon (bird nest with coconut and mango pudding). Checked in our luggage and checked in. More shopping at Zara and it's time!
Time flies. Before we know it, we are back in Singapore. No one come to pick us up. Sob! Hahaaa, but it's actually my parents-in-law thought our flight is tomorrow. What a boo-boo!
Overall, quite enjoy this trip! Yeah!
Friday, August 12, 2011
Aug 11 2011 - Shop Shop Shop!!!
Initial plan to go Ocean Park or the Peak was aborted. Shopping shall be our main agenda!
Took hubby to this famous dim sum restaurant, Lian Xiang (Hee, mine is Hanyu Pinyin.. will try to write another post on restaurants we went later). Very traditional style, we even have the ladies pushing out carts of dim sum and you let them know what you want, and they will stamp your card. Kinda crowded but the human traffic comes and goes quite fast. Though probably considered more expensive than usual, the quality is quite good and portion is generous.
Shopping! We headed to Argyle Centre. Done my research and read from some blogs that this place is recommended for cheap female wears and assessories. Unlike street market, you cannot bargain here which is what I like. I prefer fixed price where I should not be overtly concerned if I managed to get myself a good deal. Here, the clothes basically sold at HK$60 for tops or bottoms, about SG$10!! That's a steal! Quality is actually similar to those you bought from those blogshops (lower-end). If you want to look for slightly better quality, check out the shops instead of those stalls. I bought 3 dresses, 1 top, 1 sweater, costs me HK$1217 (about SG$200) Perhaps not very cheap... oops! Well, but at least I am happy with the purchases.
However do be informed that the shops generally do not open very early. We reached the place about 10am and no shops are open!!! So hubby and myself decided to check out their famous dessert stall nearby, Xu Liu Shan. Not too bad. I love their mango juice! Yumz!
I understood from the salesgal from the shop that no fitting allowed in the shops in Argyle Centre and they generally open about 3pm. Though there are some that open earlier. To avoid the crowd, it's recommended to go about noon however expect that not all the shops will be opened.
We also managed to get my Little Twin Star luggage from Eminent (HK$999)! Cool! Love!!
Back to hotel to put down all our purchases, we headed out for lunch.
Along Wellington, there's quite a few famous food outlets. Besides the Dim Sum restaurant, we went to Yung Kee, famous for it's roasted goose. This is really good, please visit there if you have the chance. Pricing more expensive than the usual Cha Cang Ting, then again, this is like a typical Chinese restaurant setting.
Hmm, perhaps this location is not too bad afterall.
On the way back to hotel, we ended up at a shoes shop, My Gallery. Selling very nice leather shoes, I splurge on 2 pairs! Oh no! But they are having offer, both pairs costs me about HK$1200 (about SG$98). Very worth it!!
After spending so much, think we should just hide in the hotel room except for dinner. Hee!
Dinner, Tsui Wah... As usual, no complaints on their food.
Took hubby to this famous dim sum restaurant, Lian Xiang (Hee, mine is Hanyu Pinyin.. will try to write another post on restaurants we went later). Very traditional style, we even have the ladies pushing out carts of dim sum and you let them know what you want, and they will stamp your card. Kinda crowded but the human traffic comes and goes quite fast. Though probably considered more expensive than usual, the quality is quite good and portion is generous.
Shopping! We headed to Argyle Centre. Done my research and read from some blogs that this place is recommended for cheap female wears and assessories. Unlike street market, you cannot bargain here which is what I like. I prefer fixed price where I should not be overtly concerned if I managed to get myself a good deal. Here, the clothes basically sold at HK$60 for tops or bottoms, about SG$10!! That's a steal! Quality is actually similar to those you bought from those blogshops (lower-end). If you want to look for slightly better quality, check out the shops instead of those stalls. I bought 3 dresses, 1 top, 1 sweater, costs me HK$1217 (about SG$200) Perhaps not very cheap... oops! Well, but at least I am happy with the purchases.
However do be informed that the shops generally do not open very early. We reached the place about 10am and no shops are open!!! So hubby and myself decided to check out their famous dessert stall nearby, Xu Liu Shan. Not too bad. I love their mango juice! Yumz!
I understood from the salesgal from the shop that no fitting allowed in the shops in Argyle Centre and they generally open about 3pm. Though there are some that open earlier. To avoid the crowd, it's recommended to go about noon however expect that not all the shops will be opened.
We also managed to get my Little Twin Star luggage from Eminent (HK$999)! Cool! Love!!
Back to hotel to put down all our purchases, we headed out for lunch.
Along Wellington, there's quite a few famous food outlets. Besides the Dim Sum restaurant, we went to Yung Kee, famous for it's roasted goose. This is really good, please visit there if you have the chance. Pricing more expensive than the usual Cha Cang Ting, then again, this is like a typical Chinese restaurant setting.
Hmm, perhaps this location is not too bad afterall.
On the way back to hotel, we ended up at a shoes shop, My Gallery. Selling very nice leather shoes, I splurge on 2 pairs! Oh no! But they are having offer, both pairs costs me about HK$1200 (about SG$98). Very worth it!!
After spending so much, think we should just hide in the hotel room except for dinner. Hee!
Dinner, Tsui Wah... As usual, no complaints on their food.
Aug 10 2011 - Back to Hong Kong
Breakfast provided for at Altira. I took the Chinese set and hubby the Western set. I love my Dim Sum, Porridge. Their mee is so-so though. Dough with soya milk is not too bad except the soya milk is unsweetened, or you need to add your own sugar? hmm....
Back to our room. Same as yesterday, we have no intention to get out of the room. I soaked myself in the nice round bath-tub. Shiok! Can really fall asleep or am I too tired?
Before we know it, it's time to leave the gorgeous room and go back to Hong Kong. Again, excellence service is provided when the limousine service had already being pre-arranged to send us back to the ferry terminal.
Once we were at the ferry terminal, we were at a loss on which ferry to take. In the end we ended up getting tickets from First Ferry which is a wrong choice as the destination is Tsim Sha Shui. Turbo Jet will have taken us to Hong Kong Island which is where our 2nd hotel at Hong Kong, Butterfly on Wellington. Nonetheless problem easily solved by taking a cab to our intended destination.
Although our driver does not know his way to our hotel, he took the initiative to search the map and utilise the GPS on his mobile. Wonder if Singapore drivers will have provided such service or initiative?
The first impression? The streets is very very narrow and crowded. Does not give me a good impression. Check in at Level 1 and we were given room 1005, again the one nearest to the lift lobby. However at least not as noisy as we were at Nathan Hotel. Perhaps this hotel does not really cater to families with young kids as much as Nathan Hotel.
After check-in, we went about exploring the area. We got lost initially but managed to pick up our bearings in no time. Though it seemed that this location does not seem as good as Nathan Road and definitely not as near to MTR station.
We settled for late lunch at Da Jia Le. Not too bad but definitely the roasted meat is not as good as Altira.
Shopping around the vicinity does disappoint me. All the brands... not my style. I am a cheapo gal.
In the end we went to Bonjour to get the masks requested by my BIL's gf plus some drinks and snacks.
H&M!!!! Buy buy buy! Shop shop shop! My new love brand.. too bad, no outlet in Singapore.
We bought back Mac Donald's as late dinner.
Back to our room. Same as yesterday, we have no intention to get out of the room. I soaked myself in the nice round bath-tub. Shiok! Can really fall asleep or am I too tired?
Before we know it, it's time to leave the gorgeous room and go back to Hong Kong. Again, excellence service is provided when the limousine service had already being pre-arranged to send us back to the ferry terminal.
Once we were at the ferry terminal, we were at a loss on which ferry to take. In the end we ended up getting tickets from First Ferry which is a wrong choice as the destination is Tsim Sha Shui. Turbo Jet will have taken us to Hong Kong Island which is where our 2nd hotel at Hong Kong, Butterfly on Wellington. Nonetheless problem easily solved by taking a cab to our intended destination.
Although our driver does not know his way to our hotel, he took the initiative to search the map and utilise the GPS on his mobile. Wonder if Singapore drivers will have provided such service or initiative?
The first impression? The streets is very very narrow and crowded. Does not give me a good impression. Check in at Level 1 and we were given room 1005, again the one nearest to the lift lobby. However at least not as noisy as we were at Nathan Hotel. Perhaps this hotel does not really cater to families with young kids as much as Nathan Hotel.
After check-in, we went about exploring the area. We got lost initially but managed to pick up our bearings in no time. Though it seemed that this location does not seem as good as Nathan Road and definitely not as near to MTR station.
We settled for late lunch at Da Jia Le. Not too bad but definitely the roasted meat is not as good as Altira.
Shopping around the vicinity does disappoint me. All the brands... not my style. I am a cheapo gal.
In the end we went to Bonjour to get the masks requested by my BIL's gf plus some drinks and snacks.
H&M!!!! Buy buy buy! Shop shop shop! My new love brand.. too bad, no outlet in Singapore.
We bought back Mac Donald's as late dinner.
Wednesday, August 10, 2011
Aug 09 2011 - Macau
Woke up about 7 plus to get ready. Luckily managed to finish packing last night so today shall be just R&R.
We went out for breakfast about 9am, in search for yet another Cha Cang Ting. Now that we are more familiar with the environment, the search is easy! We settled at Tsui Wah Restaurant, it's less than 10 min walk from our hotel. I'd actually preferred the food here than from the famous Australian Dairy Company. Generally I think Hong Kong food are saltier but at least Tsui Wah's food is lesser than ADC.
After breakfast, we decided to head back to the hotel since most shops are not open. Simple relaxation in the room to wait for check-out. Service at the counter was fast and friendly and we were out of the hotel in no time.
Check-out 12pm, caught a cab to head down to China Ferry Terminal. There, you can choose from Cotai Jet, Turbo Jet and First Ferry. We took the 1pm ferry from First Ferry, costs us HK$51 each. It was abit of a rushed though. Hubby was scared that we might miss our ferry. Immediately after the purchase of tickets, it's about 12.30pm and hubby said we need to check in 0.5 hour before! At the custom, there was quite a queue and coming very close to 1pm! Ferry departed quite on time, 1.05pm.
After quite a rush, we finally made it to the ferry in time! Thankfully the seats were assigned (at check-in point), otherwise I cannot imagine if hubby and me have to sit away from each other. Especially so when the ride was quite a bumpy one and me with my motion sickness does not help. Took the motion sickness pill and snoozed.
About an hour later, we arrived at Macau! Felt so stupid to believe in my brother-in-law when he told us that there is no need to fill in the arrival form. What nonsense! Such embarrassment when we were told to stand aside to fill up those forms.
Hotel pickup was already waiting for us when we stepped out. Got to praise their service! Just before we took off from Singapore to Hong Kong, I'd received their email to request for me to provide some information and arrival timing for limousine pickup service. The next few days we emailed each other to confirm the arrival details as earlier, I had no idea what are the available ferry time slots.
The room is wow!!! Those who being to Capella and loves it (I am one of those), will love this room as well! The room is big and comfortable. The service is impeccable. Absolutely no complaints there!
However, this hotel is inaccessible to the attractions. So in the end, I got to listen to hubby's advice and just stayed in the room to enjoy. After all the endless walking day after day, it's a good break for my poor legs.
To further spoil ourselves, we actually called in room-service. Not too bad an idea since I preferred Chinese food and hubby Western. I went crazy ordering.... I ordered their BBQ platter, Crystal Prawn Dumpling, Custard Bun and Hasma Dessert! Yumz!!!!!! Hubby just had one pathetic plate of Carbonara. Hahaaa... but no fear, as usual, I could not finish my food and hubby ate all for me! I LOVE FOOD!!!
Once my body is on relaxed mode, it sure took advantage! I snoozed right after my sumptuous dinner!
We went out for breakfast about 9am, in search for yet another Cha Cang Ting. Now that we are more familiar with the environment, the search is easy! We settled at Tsui Wah Restaurant, it's less than 10 min walk from our hotel. I'd actually preferred the food here than from the famous Australian Dairy Company. Generally I think Hong Kong food are saltier but at least Tsui Wah's food is lesser than ADC.
After breakfast, we decided to head back to the hotel since most shops are not open. Simple relaxation in the room to wait for check-out. Service at the counter was fast and friendly and we were out of the hotel in no time.
Check-out 12pm, caught a cab to head down to China Ferry Terminal. There, you can choose from Cotai Jet, Turbo Jet and First Ferry. We took the 1pm ferry from First Ferry, costs us HK$51 each. It was abit of a rushed though. Hubby was scared that we might miss our ferry. Immediately after the purchase of tickets, it's about 12.30pm and hubby said we need to check in 0.5 hour before! At the custom, there was quite a queue and coming very close to 1pm! Ferry departed quite on time, 1.05pm.
After quite a rush, we finally made it to the ferry in time! Thankfully the seats were assigned (at check-in point), otherwise I cannot imagine if hubby and me have to sit away from each other. Especially so when the ride was quite a bumpy one and me with my motion sickness does not help. Took the motion sickness pill and snoozed.
About an hour later, we arrived at Macau! Felt so stupid to believe in my brother-in-law when he told us that there is no need to fill in the arrival form. What nonsense! Such embarrassment when we were told to stand aside to fill up those forms.
Hotel pickup was already waiting for us when we stepped out. Got to praise their service! Just before we took off from Singapore to Hong Kong, I'd received their email to request for me to provide some information and arrival timing for limousine pickup service. The next few days we emailed each other to confirm the arrival details as earlier, I had no idea what are the available ferry time slots.
The room is wow!!! Those who being to Capella and loves it (I am one of those), will love this room as well! The room is big and comfortable. The service is impeccable. Absolutely no complaints there!
However, this hotel is inaccessible to the attractions. So in the end, I got to listen to hubby's advice and just stayed in the room to enjoy. After all the endless walking day after day, it's a good break for my poor legs.
To further spoil ourselves, we actually called in room-service. Not too bad an idea since I preferred Chinese food and hubby Western. I went crazy ordering.... I ordered their BBQ platter, Crystal Prawn Dumpling, Custard Bun and Hasma Dessert! Yumz!!!!!! Hubby just had one pathetic plate of Carbonara. Hahaaa... but no fear, as usual, I could not finish my food and hubby ate all for me! I LOVE FOOD!!!
Once my body is on relaxed mode, it sure took advantage! I snoozed right after my sumptuous dinner!
Tuesday, August 9, 2011
Aug 08 2011 - I Hate the PRCs!!!
Breakfast at the much famous Australian Dairy Company especially since it is quite near our hotel. MTR Jordan, exit C2 and walk down one block and turn left. Frankly I found their food too salty for my liking.
Then Disneyland, Here I Come!
...
I will not go back there though!! The rides are not exciting except the Space Mountain which is an indoor roller coaster ride. It's pitch dark and in great speed. Shiok! The first ride that actually made me feel like puking! Haa! But very fun. Stitch Encounter is damn cute! The guy who did the voice-over is witting and sure can think fast. We went for the Mandarin version, though it sounded weird (Stich speaking Mandarin?!!), hubby and myself really enjoyed it so much that we did not mind going for the English version, if time permits. And of course time does not!
We did not stayed for the Fireworks at 9pm. Wasted but no regrets. Any more extended monents with the PRCs is making my blood boil! They are so damn inconsiderate. Pushing you while in the queue, absolutely no sense of personal space! Trying to cut your queue! Walking and knocks into you without any apology!
I really really really really hate them! Can they be taught any manners?!!
Came back to our hotel before 7pm to cool off and shower. Then we went shopping at Wing On right opposite our hotel. Bought underwears! Seemed cheaper than in Singapore. The eco-range from Triumph costs about S$40 (Bra). If I did not remember wrongly, Singapore sells them at almost double the price! Bought 3 sets! And bought another 3 from another brand not found in Singapore, Embery Form. Also bought Le Sportsac, was given 10% discount since the salesgirl sold me the bag on display instead. We found my cartoon luggage bags!! There's Mickey Mouse, Little Twin Star and Hello Kitty. I am going to buy!!!! Though not now, wait till we come back from Macau.
Dinner.. We decided to try Hulu Cafe, 2 streets away from our hotel. Quite good leh! I ordered Prawn Pasta with spicy tomato and hubby seafood baked rice. Their portion is quite big. They seemed to specialise in Angus Steak and the price is cheap! The steak set meal would have cost about S$30 plus. Hubby said he will be back to try it.
Time to pack the bags, check my work emails and blogging...
2.30am! I am sleeping later and waking up earlier when on vacation. What nonsense!
Oh yeah.... I am sun-burnt!
Macau shall be our next conquer.....
Then Disneyland, Here I Come!
...
I will not go back there though!! The rides are not exciting except the Space Mountain which is an indoor roller coaster ride. It's pitch dark and in great speed. Shiok! The first ride that actually made me feel like puking! Haa! But very fun. Stitch Encounter is damn cute! The guy who did the voice-over is witting and sure can think fast. We went for the Mandarin version, though it sounded weird (Stich speaking Mandarin?!!), hubby and myself really enjoyed it so much that we did not mind going for the English version, if time permits. And of course time does not!
We did not stayed for the Fireworks at 9pm. Wasted but no regrets. Any more extended monents with the PRCs is making my blood boil! They are so damn inconsiderate. Pushing you while in the queue, absolutely no sense of personal space! Trying to cut your queue! Walking and knocks into you without any apology!
I really really really really hate them! Can they be taught any manners?!!
Came back to our hotel before 7pm to cool off and shower. Then we went shopping at Wing On right opposite our hotel. Bought underwears! Seemed cheaper than in Singapore. The eco-range from Triumph costs about S$40 (Bra). If I did not remember wrongly, Singapore sells them at almost double the price! Bought 3 sets! And bought another 3 from another brand not found in Singapore, Embery Form. Also bought Le Sportsac, was given 10% discount since the salesgirl sold me the bag on display instead. We found my cartoon luggage bags!! There's Mickey Mouse, Little Twin Star and Hello Kitty. I am going to buy!!!! Though not now, wait till we come back from Macau.
Dinner.. We decided to try Hulu Cafe, 2 streets away from our hotel. Quite good leh! I ordered Prawn Pasta with spicy tomato and hubby seafood baked rice. Their portion is quite big. They seemed to specialise in Angus Steak and the price is cheap! The steak set meal would have cost about S$30 plus. Hubby said he will be back to try it.
Time to pack the bags, check my work emails and blogging...
2.30am! I am sleeping later and waking up earlier when on vacation. What nonsense!
Oh yeah.... I am sun-burnt!
Macau shall be our next conquer.....
Aug 07 2011 - Lesson Learnt... Must Open Your Mouth
Well, hubby and myself have the impression that Cha Cang Ting can be found in Hong Kong so easiy. However we are so wrong, or are we?
Started the day with the hotel buffet breakfast. Sucks big big big time. What a disappointing meal to start the day!
After breakfast, we went back to our room to get ready to set off for our 1st day. We are going to visit the Big Buddha at Lantau island.
Got ourselves the Octopus card and we are off to roam the country. I will say the train network is quite efficient, even more than Singapore.
Finally we arrived at MTR Tung Chung Station. Headed straight to take Ngong Ping Cable Car Terminal. We waited in queue at least an hour for just a 20 min cable car ride and that is taking the crystal cable car instead of the standard. Of course, it will have cost more but at least not another 1 hour extra wait!
Cutting through Ngong Ping Village (there are quite a number of shops selling souvenirs and eateries), a long flight of stairs.... we finally reached the top! To see the magnificent Tian Tan Buddha Statue!
Settled for lunch at one of the eateries, Euro Go Go, baked pasta with tuna and baked pasta with chicken. Not too bad.
We took the cable car ride back to Tung Chung. There's a shopping centre just there (cannot remember the name though). Attempted to shop for awhile but failed miserably. Quite a few brands and seemed like it's a factory outlet so the price supposed to be cheap... but there were so many people! I am those kind that hate going for sales because I do not like to jostle to squeeze through, plus the long queue at the dressing room and cashier. Crazy moments! We gave up and decided to check out Sky100 at Kowloon.
Initially we lost our way though we did manage to find W Hotel and Ritz Carlton. We headed back to the shopping centre, Elements and did manage to find Sky100 and bought the 6.30pm slot, hoping to catch the sunset. This place is located at level 100 of the building and give you 360 degree view of Hong Kong. Not too bad but catching the night view will probably be better, I think.
There is Airport Express at Kowloon Station which we were hoping perhaps we can buy Disneyland tickets since we learnt our lesson this morning with the long wait for the cable car. However the customer service is so unfriendly! Instead the chap at Sky100 is more helpful. Still, we did not manage to buy the tickets since he said the nearest will be at Hong Kong MTR. Oh well... perhaps we will get it at our hotel tourist centre.
Oh, a mention though. You can check in at Kowloon and Hong Kong MTR for your air flights! Isn't that cool?
Hoping to find some Cha Cang Ting to get our dinner. Walking round round at Cetral without any luck but we did ended up catching the Symphony of Lights!
We decided to head to Tsim Sha Tsui instead to try our luck since Grace gave me a food list and seemed that Tsim Sha Tsui has a number of recommended. Sadly, we had no luck but we ended up shopping in one shop (Log-On) at iTower that sells interesting household products and snacks, and stationery.... and alot others. Meanwhile being trying to find a rubber band for my hair since yesterday! Walking a few times with no luck. In the end, I decided to ask one of the salesgirl instead. Guess what, they do sell it!
While making payment for our purchases, I'd decided to ask if they are aware of any Cha Cang Ting nearby. She told me the direction and mentioned that there were a few along the stretch, I can just take my pick but she felt Macau Restaurant and 98 is not bad. We ended up eating at Macau Restaurant. Hubby ordered Macaroni and me the Pork Chop Bun and Portugese Egg Tart. Quite a satisfactory dinner!
See, the power of asking! =)
Started the day with the hotel buffet breakfast. Sucks big big big time. What a disappointing meal to start the day!
After breakfast, we went back to our room to get ready to set off for our 1st day. We are going to visit the Big Buddha at Lantau island.
Got ourselves the Octopus card and we are off to roam the country. I will say the train network is quite efficient, even more than Singapore.
Finally we arrived at MTR Tung Chung Station. Headed straight to take Ngong Ping Cable Car Terminal. We waited in queue at least an hour for just a 20 min cable car ride and that is taking the crystal cable car instead of the standard. Of course, it will have cost more but at least not another 1 hour extra wait!
Cutting through Ngong Ping Village (there are quite a number of shops selling souvenirs and eateries), a long flight of stairs.... we finally reached the top! To see the magnificent Tian Tan Buddha Statue!
Settled for lunch at one of the eateries, Euro Go Go, baked pasta with tuna and baked pasta with chicken. Not too bad.
We took the cable car ride back to Tung Chung. There's a shopping centre just there (cannot remember the name though). Attempted to shop for awhile but failed miserably. Quite a few brands and seemed like it's a factory outlet so the price supposed to be cheap... but there were so many people! I am those kind that hate going for sales because I do not like to jostle to squeeze through, plus the long queue at the dressing room and cashier. Crazy moments! We gave up and decided to check out Sky100 at Kowloon.
Initially we lost our way though we did manage to find W Hotel and Ritz Carlton. We headed back to the shopping centre, Elements and did manage to find Sky100 and bought the 6.30pm slot, hoping to catch the sunset. This place is located at level 100 of the building and give you 360 degree view of Hong Kong. Not too bad but catching the night view will probably be better, I think.
There is Airport Express at Kowloon Station which we were hoping perhaps we can buy Disneyland tickets since we learnt our lesson this morning with the long wait for the cable car. However the customer service is so unfriendly! Instead the chap at Sky100 is more helpful. Still, we did not manage to buy the tickets since he said the nearest will be at Hong Kong MTR. Oh well... perhaps we will get it at our hotel tourist centre.
Oh, a mention though. You can check in at Kowloon and Hong Kong MTR for your air flights! Isn't that cool?
Hoping to find some Cha Cang Ting to get our dinner. Walking round round at Cetral without any luck but we did ended up catching the Symphony of Lights!
We decided to head to Tsim Sha Tsui instead to try our luck since Grace gave me a food list and seemed that Tsim Sha Tsui has a number of recommended. Sadly, we had no luck but we ended up shopping in one shop (Log-On) at iTower that sells interesting household products and snacks, and stationery.... and alot others. Meanwhile being trying to find a rubber band for my hair since yesterday! Walking a few times with no luck. In the end, I decided to ask one of the salesgirl instead. Guess what, they do sell it!
While making payment for our purchases, I'd decided to ask if they are aware of any Cha Cang Ting nearby. She told me the direction and mentioned that there were a few along the stretch, I can just take my pick but she felt Macau Restaurant and 98 is not bad. We ended up eating at Macau Restaurant. Hubby ordered Macaroni and me the Pork Chop Bun and Portugese Egg Tart. Quite a satisfactory dinner!
See, the power of asking! =)
Sunday, August 7, 2011
Aug 06 2011 - I'm Leaving On a Jet Plane!
Or rather I'd already left on a jet plane.. Hee!
I had reached Hong Kong last night. 3.05pm flight on SQ went without any hiccups, flight departed on time (Hey, this is SQ! I dun expect them to!! =P) However inflight dining was nothing to shout about.. Though I'd managed to catch Kung Fu Panda 2 on the flight. Yipppeee!!
Touched down at Hong Kong about 7pm. We decided to take some time to figure out how to get to our hotel. MTR? Bus? Cab? Oh well, let's go the lazy but most expensive way... the cab! And, the meter jumps at $1.50 for each tick! Damage HK$237. Haaa!
Finally managed to check into the hotel, Nathan Hotel at about 9pm. Set our stuff aside, we left the hotel to explore the vincinty.
At 9pm, lots of shops are still open, perhaps it's the weekend. Just blind walking and trying to recognise the landmark around. Though I did get myself Ji Dan Zai. Hmmm, frankly, so-so only. Got a couple of drinks back to the hotel.
Impression so far, lotsa neon lights billboards, definitely the reason why Hong Kong is much better lit than Singapore. Lots and lots of shopping centres along the stretch. Are we at Hong Kong's version of Orchard Road? The weather... wails! Like Singapore, hot and humid! Thankfully I'd packed in quite abit of tanktops and shorts!
I had reached Hong Kong last night. 3.05pm flight on SQ went without any hiccups, flight departed on time (Hey, this is SQ! I dun expect them to!! =P) However inflight dining was nothing to shout about.. Though I'd managed to catch Kung Fu Panda 2 on the flight. Yipppeee!!
Touched down at Hong Kong about 7pm. We decided to take some time to figure out how to get to our hotel. MTR? Bus? Cab? Oh well, let's go the lazy but most expensive way... the cab! And, the meter jumps at $1.50 for each tick! Damage HK$237. Haaa!
Finally managed to check into the hotel, Nathan Hotel at about 9pm. Set our stuff aside, we left the hotel to explore the vincinty.
At 9pm, lots of shops are still open, perhaps it's the weekend. Just blind walking and trying to recognise the landmark around. Though I did get myself Ji Dan Zai. Hmmm, frankly, so-so only. Got a couple of drinks back to the hotel.
Impression so far, lotsa neon lights billboards, definitely the reason why Hong Kong is much better lit than Singapore. Lots and lots of shopping centres along the stretch. Are we at Hong Kong's version of Orchard Road? The weather... wails! Like Singapore, hot and humid! Thankfully I'd packed in quite abit of tanktops and shorts!
Sunday, July 31, 2011
Pls, Do Not Fall Sick Now
My trip is fixed and confirmed! So, pls let be stay healthy before, during and at least immediately after the trip (Hee!)
Wow, these days specky can be so expensive. Yesterday, finally went to get my Swiss Flex spectacles done, hopefully it will be ready, in time for my trip.
Guess how much it cost me? $878!! OMG! Can you believe that? Partly due to the frame. The original price of this Swiss Flex frame is $350 but was given a discount of $180. Why specifically Swiss Flex? Because the frame is very light and supposedly hypo-allergic. It will be good for my sensitive skin. On top of that, my lens is not cheap either. Nikon 1.65 thickness Transition lens, crizal coated. That itself is $708!!
This specky better be good and worth the money.
Wow, these days specky can be so expensive. Yesterday, finally went to get my Swiss Flex spectacles done, hopefully it will be ready, in time for my trip.
Guess how much it cost me? $878!! OMG! Can you believe that? Partly due to the frame. The original price of this Swiss Flex frame is $350 but was given a discount of $180. Why specifically Swiss Flex? Because the frame is very light and supposedly hypo-allergic. It will be good for my sensitive skin. On top of that, my lens is not cheap either. Nikon 1.65 thickness Transition lens, crizal coated. That itself is $708!!
This specky better be good and worth the money.
Saturday, July 30, 2011
IVF
Previously hubby had went for a sperm analysis and was found out his was on the low side plus with his condition, we decided to not waste time since I am not getting any younger, to proceed with IVF.
Today, we went for another appointment, recommended by a friend. He was very nice and candid except the waiting time is hideous. 2 hours on average! Even with appointment! Previously he had arranged for us to do some tests to ascertain our condition suited for the treatment. This time, hubby's sperm count result is more than satisfactory! Surprise surprise surprise! Wonder if we try hard this month, will there be a good chance of conceiving through the natural way instead of IVF? GOD, do help us on this! Hee!
Today, we went for another appointment, recommended by a friend. He was very nice and candid except the waiting time is hideous. 2 hours on average! Even with appointment! Previously he had arranged for us to do some tests to ascertain our condition suited for the treatment. This time, hubby's sperm count result is more than satisfactory! Surprise surprise surprise! Wonder if we try hard this month, will there be a good chance of conceiving through the natural way instead of IVF? GOD, do help us on this! Hee!
Friday, July 29, 2011
Facebook....
Will you add your boss or colleague (not friend) to your Facebook? Erase that, I bet most will not. How about if they add you, will you accept?
One of my traders added me last weekend however I chose to ignore. On Tuesday when I was back in the office, he actually asked me in front of everyone why I had not accepted his invite! OMG! That's forcing me to accept right? Can you believe that I am actually given the permission to log on to Facebook to accept his 'friendship'. I still cannot believe this.
While Facebook probably is a good networking tool, I am actually more interested to use it for my family and friends. Not my boss or colleagues where I'd probably bitch about work and not want them to see my complaints. Now what? Can I block him without his knowledge? Or I should just refrain from expressing my grievances on Facebook then?
One of my traders added me last weekend however I chose to ignore. On Tuesday when I was back in the office, he actually asked me in front of everyone why I had not accepted his invite! OMG! That's forcing me to accept right? Can you believe that I am actually given the permission to log on to Facebook to accept his 'friendship'. I still cannot believe this.
While Facebook probably is a good networking tool, I am actually more interested to use it for my family and friends. Not my boss or colleagues where I'd probably bitch about work and not want them to see my complaints. Now what? Can I block him without his knowledge? Or I should just refrain from expressing my grievances on Facebook then?
Tuesday, July 26, 2011
Exercise
Time to start exercising! Being very inconsistent with my routine. Previously managed to convince hubby to buy the Wii Fit Plus and did managed to keep up with daily exercise for a period but stopped when I strained myself (not from the exercise though).
However I had being putting on and feeling grossly fat at the tummy area! Knocked off work early and reached home early enough for a short exercise. Hopefully this time I can keep it up, for myself, for health and beauty!
However I had being putting on and feeling grossly fat at the tummy area! Knocked off work early and reached home early enough for a short exercise. Hopefully this time I can keep it up, for myself, for health and beauty!
Monday, July 25, 2011
Reluctance to Work
Woke up in the morning feeling a strong dread to work. Hence asked hubby if I should take urgent leave (excuse: menstrual cramp). He understands me very well and agrees.
These days the office is really a very low morale place to work in. Now that I know of the impending departure of my work buddy, the feeling of dread is even stronger.
Now I started to wonder if I should had indeed jumped ship when I got the chance. And why didn't I? Am I thinking too much and hence bring on such misery for myself?
How and where should I start? Hmm...
The work place may not be great but still tolerable. How about the colleagues? They are largely ok except for some that are really becoming more of a pain. Management? Typical but not helping to improve my situation. So at the end of the day it all boils down to those colleagues that are pushing me away:
1) My manager, let's call her Monster M. Personally she is a ok person but she is not a fair and not very easy to work with. Since day 1, I know she always prefer my buddy more so than me even though I am more senior. Then again, who will not since my buddy is so charming. That I do not blame her, but I feel she is practising favoritism so do not come and tell me you are a fair person cause you are not! Moreover since the beginning she feels that I am not well-deserved of the salary I am getting. Day by day working under her, you start to feel worthless. This is not helping my ego and confidence! And the strange thing, she is the only one that thinks so. My traders only feel that I need to step up more to take a lead position.
Nonethless I think now there is no such a need anymore as M employed another 'friend' of hers. So she is taking the lead now, not that I am complaining but she is also one of the factors that are causing the low morale.
2) This new team lead, GC, though not officially announced but the position is definitely hers. She is truly experienced and good at her work. That, I am truly impressed and respect her for her experience and knowledge. However she is like a 'mini-M', the style of work are scaringly alike! We do not need 2 monsters around! She is direct superior of my work buddy and she is suffering plus she feels that the company is not paying her enough to take such nonsense.
3) Leaving of my work buddy, Sab. As much as i will hate to see her leave but if she is happier elsewhere, I definitely give her my blessing. She used to be such cheery gal but with the entrance of GC, everything changed. Sab is definitely more subdued. So yah, fly away babe... Be Happy!
Me? As much as I feel miserable and so so so so tempted to fly away too, my wings are clipped (or am I?). As mentioned, I did managed to get a job offer earlier which I rejected. Main thing was that hubby and myself are thinking of family planning. I personally feel that it is not right for any staff to fall pregnant less than a year into her new employment. But I have no wish to hold back the family planning first till I am more settled in the new job as I am definitely not getting any younger. So GOD, pls help me fulfill my wish asap so once I am done with this plan of mine, I can move on to the next stage. Pls pls pls!
These days the office is really a very low morale place to work in. Now that I know of the impending departure of my work buddy, the feeling of dread is even stronger.
Now I started to wonder if I should had indeed jumped ship when I got the chance. And why didn't I? Am I thinking too much and hence bring on such misery for myself?
How and where should I start? Hmm...
The work place may not be great but still tolerable. How about the colleagues? They are largely ok except for some that are really becoming more of a pain. Management? Typical but not helping to improve my situation. So at the end of the day it all boils down to those colleagues that are pushing me away:
1) My manager, let's call her Monster M. Personally she is a ok person but she is not a fair and not very easy to work with. Since day 1, I know she always prefer my buddy more so than me even though I am more senior. Then again, who will not since my buddy is so charming. That I do not blame her, but I feel she is practising favoritism so do not come and tell me you are a fair person cause you are not! Moreover since the beginning she feels that I am not well-deserved of the salary I am getting. Day by day working under her, you start to feel worthless. This is not helping my ego and confidence! And the strange thing, she is the only one that thinks so. My traders only feel that I need to step up more to take a lead position.
Nonethless I think now there is no such a need anymore as M employed another 'friend' of hers. So she is taking the lead now, not that I am complaining but she is also one of the factors that are causing the low morale.
2) This new team lead, GC, though not officially announced but the position is definitely hers. She is truly experienced and good at her work. That, I am truly impressed and respect her for her experience and knowledge. However she is like a 'mini-M', the style of work are scaringly alike! We do not need 2 monsters around! She is direct superior of my work buddy and she is suffering plus she feels that the company is not paying her enough to take such nonsense.
3) Leaving of my work buddy, Sab. As much as i will hate to see her leave but if she is happier elsewhere, I definitely give her my blessing. She used to be such cheery gal but with the entrance of GC, everything changed. Sab is definitely more subdued. So yah, fly away babe... Be Happy!
Me? As much as I feel miserable and so so so so tempted to fly away too, my wings are clipped (or am I?). As mentioned, I did managed to get a job offer earlier which I rejected. Main thing was that hubby and myself are thinking of family planning. I personally feel that it is not right for any staff to fall pregnant less than a year into her new employment. But I have no wish to hold back the family planning first till I am more settled in the new job as I am definitely not getting any younger. So GOD, pls help me fulfill my wish asap so once I am done with this plan of mine, I can move on to the next stage. Pls pls pls!
Sunday, July 24, 2011
Hong Kong, Here I Come!!
Being talking about this Hong Kong trip for toooo looonnngggg! Finally booked the air tickets today and the first 3 days hotel stay! Am so looking forward for this!
So far our plan is
1) Afternoon flight out to Hong Kong on SQ on 06 Aug 2011 (Sat).
I know everyone always try to fly in the morning and reach there in the afternoon to start the vacation early. However we are scheduled for our dental appointment that morning plus my father-in-law birthday that day, expected to do a celebratory lunch first before leaving on a jet plan. Probably going to arrive there in the evening, check in Nathan Hotel, dinner and some shopping before we knock out for the day.
2) 07 Aug 2011 (Sun)
Already booked the room with breakfast for the day so that's how we shall start the day. Thereafter the plan will be to hit the Peak (we are so going to take the tram up!). Will check out the Victoria Harbour on their laser lights and not forgetting Avenue of Stars.
3) 08 Aug 2011 (Mon)
What's a trip to Hong Kong without the Disneyland right?
4) 09 Aug 2011 (Tue)
We shall spend Singapore National Day in Macau! Understand that the hotel hubby wanna book is not going to be near the main belt however sounds like a nice pretty hotel. Why not, right? Hee!
5) 10 Aug 2011 (Wed)
Back to Hong Kong, but shall we head back to the same hotel?? Hmm, no idea yet but definitely will finalise this before setting off. Believe this shall be a shopping day though.
6) 11 Aug 2011 (Thu)
Ocean Park??
7) 12 Aug 2011 (Fri)
All good things must come to an end. Back to reality. =(
Side note, being quite upset this weekend. My work buddy is likely to leave me soon. Shall be happy for her for her good offer but sad that I will lose such good companion at work. Shall talk more on the misery at work soon~~~
So far our plan is
1) Afternoon flight out to Hong Kong on SQ on 06 Aug 2011 (Sat).
I know everyone always try to fly in the morning and reach there in the afternoon to start the vacation early. However we are scheduled for our dental appointment that morning plus my father-in-law birthday that day, expected to do a celebratory lunch first before leaving on a jet plan. Probably going to arrive there in the evening, check in Nathan Hotel, dinner and some shopping before we knock out for the day.
2) 07 Aug 2011 (Sun)
Already booked the room with breakfast for the day so that's how we shall start the day. Thereafter the plan will be to hit the Peak (we are so going to take the tram up!). Will check out the Victoria Harbour on their laser lights and not forgetting Avenue of Stars.
3) 08 Aug 2011 (Mon)
What's a trip to Hong Kong without the Disneyland right?
4) 09 Aug 2011 (Tue)
We shall spend Singapore National Day in Macau! Understand that the hotel hubby wanna book is not going to be near the main belt however sounds like a nice pretty hotel. Why not, right? Hee!
5) 10 Aug 2011 (Wed)
Back to Hong Kong, but shall we head back to the same hotel?? Hmm, no idea yet but definitely will finalise this before setting off. Believe this shall be a shopping day though.
6) 11 Aug 2011 (Thu)
Ocean Park??
7) 12 Aug 2011 (Fri)
All good things must come to an end. Back to reality. =(
Side note, being quite upset this weekend. My work buddy is likely to leave me soon. Shall be happy for her for her good offer but sad that I will lose such good companion at work. Shall talk more on the misery at work soon~~~
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