melaniehwa.

Travelogue 1.3: Manila, Philippines. Day 2.

2011-08-14T17:07:00.001+08:00

Though satisfied with what we saw in Manila on our very first day, I know, I was hungry for more. It was a surprise to me that Manila was very much like Kuala Lumpur. Every turn and every street reminded me of a different place back at home. Knowing that I am in good hands, I let Khairie work his "Amazing Race" charm. So yeah, he was the one who did most of the research for the trip and as for Day 2, we decided to go back in time to visit the historian enclave of Intramuros, the oldest district of Manila.

24 May 2011

1103: Go Hotels, Mandayulong- Intramuros

If you are looking for a budget hotel in Manila, Philippines, you should consider Go Hotels. Clean sheets, good airy room, safe surrounding, hot showers and free breakfasts! Only thing that missed a mark for me was their wi-fi connection. I couldn't even get to contact my family back at home cause of it. So yes, with a good 8 hours rest, all fueled up, we were ready to head on over to Intramuros by taking the MRT from the nearby Boni station to EDSA, the end of the MRT line and change to LRT 1(yellow line) to the Central station(refer to my previous post for the transit map of Manila). Take a short jeepnee ride and ta-da, you've reached your destination.

Good morning!

Pinoy Rice. This was really good. The strip beef cooked in Pinoy brown sauce was different than what we have back here. Its savoury with the meaty beefy strips.

I choose the healthy breakkie of cereals, yoghurt and fruits. Bad choice though. The yoghurt was terrible.

I love this shot. In the jeepnee towards Fort Santiago.

Photograph credits to Khairie.

1257: Intramuros- Fort Santiago

We got off Central station and we headed towards Fort Santiago, where the Rizal Shrine is situated. Intramuros was indeed a historical district with many architectural buildings and landmarks. You will either have to walk or take the taxi or jeepnee towards Fort Santiago. Here's some pictures of what we saw right off the LRT and also the Fort.

Tourist shot.

We came across this abandoned open area and I was intrigued by it. I have always thought that graffiti(if done well) are actually very nice. I love this picture with the reflection of the graffiti.

Entrance towards the Fort.

Thats Khairie in action. I love this shot.

Meet Jose Rizal.

Tourist Shot twoo.. I was forced. =.=

This was in the Rizal Shrine. A painting that showed his life.

Stairway to Rizal's room towards the end of the walk through his life.

You will have an astounding time walking through Rizal's life, learning how he guided Philippines towards independence all the way to his last letter before he was prosecuted for his actions.

Rizal's last letter.

I found this outside the Rizal Shrine. Its a build up replica of the olden day barracks.

1436: Manila Cathedral- Casa Manila- San Augustin Church

After the Fort Santiago, where Rizal's Shrine is, just walk down the street of General Luna. You will pass many different buildings which includes the Plaza Roma, Plaza Moriones and many others. But you must Manila's Churches when you are there. I have made it a point that I will one day visit the Westminister's Abbey and the other beautiful churches in Europe but the ones in Manila sure did not disappoint. Manila is a Christian country ever since the Spanish colonisation. I love the beautiful historical Manila Cathedral. Its building is definitely an architectural work of art. It is hundreds years old now. It was the sixth structure to rise on this site. The first church of nipa and bamboo built in 1581 which was burnt in 1583. The second church lastted till 1588 when it was blown down by a typhoon. Third cathedral of "three naves and seven chapels" started in 1584, completed in 1614 but was destroyed by an earthquake in 1645. The fifth church was built from 1872 to 1879 but was severely damaged in the 1880 earthquake when its belltower collapsed and was eventually destroyed during the Battle of Manila. The sixth cathedral was build from 1953 to 1958 till this very day.

Manila's Cathedral.

We saw these three mischievous boys outside the church playing with each other.

We walked further along the General Luna and I really wanted to visit the Casa Manila. The Casa Manila is "colonial lifestyle" museum. It is a replica of the houses of rich lifestyle during colonial times. They have different bodies in the mansion, with olden day details like its mattresses, dining tables, even up to the tiniest details like the house slippers all from the colonial times. We weren't allowed to take pictures in the Casa, but here's alittle of what it looked like from the outside.

Just right infront of the Casa Manila, you'll find another famous church that you will have to pay a visit if you are ever there in Manila. The San Augustin Church is the oldest church in Philippines. Known as the Church of Saint Paul, the first church of the Augustinian Order built in 1571. It was destroyed by the Chinese pirates in the 1574 and rebuilt a year later. It was then burned in the 1583. The third church was destroyed by fire in 1589. The forth church then was made of stone designed by Juan Macias and built in 1587 to 1604. It was looted during the British invasion during 1762. The terms of surrender of Manila to the Americans were discussed in the vestry in 1898. Though damaged in the Battle of Manila in 1945, it became the site of the first Philippine Plenary Council in 1953 and was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1994.

San Augustin Church.

The confession booth.

The open garden in the Church.

1847: Manila Bay- Makati

There are so much more to visit in Intramuros but we decided to leave the place just in time to catch the sunset by the Manila Bay. The Manila Bay along Roxas Boulevard reminded me of Penang's esplanade. You can take their mini van (I can't remember what is it called exactly but its not the jeepnee, it is air conditioned and definitely much more comfortable) which also serves as their taxi in Manila. It was nice just sitting by the seaside against the seabreeze, admiring the view as the sun sets behind the scattered ships in the middle of the sea.

I saw this little boy, mending to himself, enjoying his own milkshake with no guardian watching over him.

Grilled squids. Hmm, it was alright, I wouldn't say the taste was repulsive but it wasn't superbly delicious either.

Guess what I found down the Manila Bay. Pleaseeee forgive me.

2046: Makati- Mandayulong.

We decided to take the LRT from the Bay back to Makati for dinner. Makati offers a wide variety of choices of food to choose from but we decided on the local's fast food chain, the Jollibee. Manila offers many local fast food chain for different types of cuisines even; Chinese, Philippino, Italian, but Jollibee, its Western local fast food chain, was the most well known of all. You have to try it(its burgers that is, don't try their local specialties though), please take my word for it.

I honestly couldn't remember what is the name for this baby but it really does taste really good. The crispy fried chicken as the burger patty is crispy yet juicy and with every bite, you can taste the tender chicken with its juice overflowing. We also tried another burger(again, I can't remember its name) but it was pretty good as well.

Apple pie! The apple pie was way better than McD's. Its half the size of McD's but its apple filling sweetness was just nice.

I had a terrible craving for macaroons when we went to Manila and when I saw how widely sold it was there, I couldn't help my self. I bought a couple to try them out myself. The one above is mint in flavor and the one below is the Raspberry macaroon. It was actually pretty good. But still not as good as the ones from Nathalie's Gourmet Studio. We retired to our beds the moment we reached Mandayulong, ready for Taygaytay's Volcano and Lake scenic view early tomorrow morning!

That perfect tranquility of life is when we are closest to living through our eyes, through our mind and through our heart. And this for me is when I travel.- melaniehwa.

Hennessy Artistry 2011' Mist Club & Guinness Arthurs' Day 2011.

2011-08-11T16:59:00.002+08:00

Oh, please forgive me, I got kinda lazy so I've decided to put these two posts together. So here it is:

Hennessy Artistry 2011; Mist Club, KL.

FINALLY! My very virgin experience at Hennessy Artistry! I missed out the chance the last time when HA was back in my hometown, Penang cause of some unforeseen circumstances but yes, Hennessy Artistry is back again and this time its in Mist. Well, I wanted to skip this one actually (but obviously I didn't cause I'm writing about it here now, duh) cause I've already promised Jason and Mandy. I'm not a big fan of Hennessy but then I really liked the Hennessy Orange and Apple though. I personally think the mood wasn't really up but I really enjoyed the company.

Guinness Arthur's Day 2011; Sunway Giza.

Again, unfortunately, I will have to admit, I'm not a Guinness person. I only take Guinness if mixed with beer. But hey, I love Arthur. It was a great crowd there, definitely nice to meet up with new people and catch up with several few that I haven seen in ages. So here's to 252 years of success! TO ARTHUR!

The team Advertlets.

To Arthur!

*pictures taken by Jason.

White Water Rafting at Kuala Kubu Bharu, Selangor.

2011-08-10T19:18:00.000+08:00

I'm not sure if you have heard of white water rafting before, but I have been wanting to give it a try ever since Khairie told me about his adventure when I first met him. It then became one of the must-do things for me in my bucket list. I actually have no idea what to expect out of this cause I have tried rafting, kayaking, even canoeing and believe me, white water rafting is way wayyyyyy more fun than those I've mentioned above. Why? Well for starters, you don't even need to spend any energy in paddling. Also, the adrenaline rush when you go through every stream is just simply addictive. Once you've passed your first stream, you'll be wanting more believe me. So what exactly is white water rafting? This is what I get when I googled it before I went for the trip(believe me, try it for yourselves!).

Suddenly you become Superman!

Or perhaps this little girl flying off to save her kitty cat. Talking about the love for animals.

Or perhaps, someone trying to kidnap everyone on a string?

So was google correct? Hmm partially, but nahh, no worries, none of the above happened. But what really did happen was that the Raja Muda Selangor with his friends were there as one of the patrons. Yep, I'm not kidding, with the police to guard them and all. Anyways, the 6 of us from Advertlets drove down to Kuala Kubu Baru, Selangor a couple of weeks back to give all of the above a test to see if its true. We were all excited but with a couple of set backs during the journey (yes, we got lost and the JPJ stopped Jason's car) we were glad to be there after a long drive.

Upon reaching, of cause must camwhore first.

Geared up!

annnndddd... more camwhore-HarryPottie style!

We were then given the most hilarious brief by our guide, Bai. Believe me, he's one hell of a funny guy! See how he gave us a White Water Rafting 101 and be a resemblance of Mr Bean.

That's Bai.

Told you right?

So after the entertaining 15 minutes brief, off we go. There were 6 of us so we Jason and Daniel had to join another couple on the other raft. Excited, we all hopped on the inflatable raft.

And here we go!

Yea, that's me being attentive.

Well, white water rafting is pretty exciting really. We were lucky enough to have fallen out of the raft for 4 times, on purpose definitely. Our captain wanted us to experience falling into the water and believe me, that was the best part. Even Azrin proved that to be right when he smiled only after every fall.

Well other than falling off the raft, ofcause, the best part is navigating your way through the stream. Believe me, its actually kinda easy with experts beside you to guide you through every tight spot and every dangerous stream. Yes, we need duck, paddle and even move around the whole raft as a team to make sure that the raft sails accordingly.

Teamwork!

Here's when we get stuck in between rocks.

Pit stops!

Thats Jason and Daniel paddling. See Jason's muscles building!

Success! Well, thats a victory thing that we do after successfully passing every stream.

Beautiful huh?

Also, we got to float down the stream at the end of our journey! I loved it. It was rather relaxing to just lie flat looking up at the clear blue skies. Reminds me of the lyrics of "If I die young" by the Band Perry. Even Daniel came up with a survival tale to tell.

Thats his last remaining food!

Mandy and I.

So yes, if you are looking for a good adrenaline rush or even just looking for a teambuilding activity to share with your friends, give white water rafting a try. There are a few in Malaysia that are pretty good but the one nearest to us is ofcause the one at Kuala Kubu Bharu, Selangor. The streams here are as high as level 5(highest level 6) which is pretty challenging for starters. I loved it whenever the raft falls from the high streams and also whenever the raft flips! That's one off my bucket list, next up? Sky diving?

Survivor shot!

You can contact Bai if you fancy alil water action:

Bai- 0177692090

*Pictures taken by Mandy.

iMovieBuff: Lulla Man.

2011-08-08T14:00:00.001+08:00

Yes, the Thais have done it again! Already widely known for its pride, their horror movies, they shine again this time in a whole new genre with Lulla Man. Lulla Man is a story that everyone has definitely heard of, be it their aunts who are going through the situation or probably have heard of their guy friends discussing ways to mischievously escape being caught by their wives or girlfriends after cheating. I'd say I am definitely the first one to disagree with this particular idea, but I couldn't deny the fact that its the reality. But what did Lulla Man had that bought me over, was the fact that they brought reality to the screens with a tinge of humor. So read on now, to see what I think made Lulla Man surprisingly good.

#1. A feel good movie.

With Lulla Man, though you see and experience the lameness Thai jokes, you couldn't help it but to laugh. With their witty scripts and their relatable storyline, it is guaranteed to tickle your funny bone. I went into the cinemas thinking that this Thai comedy would probably be a failure, I exited the hall entertained. Be sure you are tickled with every highs and lows that the boys need to climb just to escape being caught.

See how they smashed a bottle in their head to get out of being questioned by their wives.

Or perhaps hurting the girl that they were cheating with to scare their wives?

#2. Relatability to the audience.

Like I've said, this movie depicts the undeniable truth of how men cheat in today's society. I'm pretty sure everyone can relate to this story be it directly or have heard of. I for one am a victim of it. But nonetheless, I actually think that they too have successfully communicate the reason to why they cheat and how the wives hurt and still put everything in a lighter note. Women have to understand that it is definitely undeniably hard to resist the temptation of a beautiful young lady as compared to the wife that you have known for years now. But of cause, men shouldn't take advantage of their wive's trust and devotion to the family. So yes men, please appreciate your wives and women, do step up your game even if its after marriage cause once the chase stops in a relationship, thats when it all goes down hill.

The boys out having fun after having drugged their wives to a very deep sleep.

A getaway with their wives as an apology.

I think Lulla Man is worth spending 1.5 hours of your day. I'm not lying. Most of the bloggers left with a satisfied smile. But with that say, I think Lulla Man deserve a 5.5/10. Definitely an extra point for effort.

Here's a picture of the satisfied Advertlets bloggers!

Thanks once again to Nusantara for the screening.

Makan-logue #5: Vin's Restaurant & Pub KL.

2011-08-05T17:06:00.004+08:00

My friend, Amanda has been telling me about Vin's for months now about how they serve great food and also by far, the best Beef Chili Cheese Fries in town. I was skeptical about it, but I actually gave it a try myself when we met up a couple of weeks ago. And boy oh boy, did it taste good. Its minced pure beefy smell with the tomato sauce was a perfect combo for its crispy deep fried fries; its portion is pretty big, its actually enough to fill me. I tried its Vins' Wings. Its alil' like the famous buffalo wings but less juicy more fried-like.

And lucky for me, I found out that Vins' is doing a food review with Advertlets. I was delighted, I mean, who wouldn't like to be showered with scrumptious food, right? So yes, after my gym I rushed over to Vins' couldn't wait to see what's going to be on the table. Ya, I know, defeats the purpose but I just couldn't resist good food.

So here's what was served:

Crumbed Scallops - RM18.90
Pan-fried breaded scallops.
I'm not a huge fan of batter fried food, but these pan-fried breaded scallops tastes pretty good when served hot.

Sautéed Mushrooms- RM16.90
Sautéed button and king oyster mushrooms flavored with herbs on crusty bread topped with parmesan.
It was pretty good as an appetizer.

Smoked Salmon Bruschetta - RM21
Served with caper-flavored pesto.
I'm a huge fan of smoked salmon, but this was alil bit of a disappointment though. It definitely wasn't as good as the Brandy Prawn, which was the best amongst the three.

Nachos
Has slices of chicken meat, lettuce, jalapeno, salsa sauce, topped with a generous amount of cream cheese.

Chicken Tikka Masala - RM18
Chunky chicken cuts seared and served in a masala sauce and served with focaccia.
I have always been a huge fan of bread but the Tikka is usually favourited by people who couldn't take spicy food. As for me, I preffered this one below as my bread combo.

Spicy Lamb Masala - RM18.90
An authentic Indian favorite, slow-cooked in an earthen pot and served with crusty bread.
This is very much spicy to my liking compared to the Tikka Masala. The tender lamb has thoroughly absorbed the fragrant smell of the Indian herbs and when it is served with crusty bread, mmhhhmmmm...

Beef Bacon Pizza (10" thin crust) - RM28
Flooded with generous portions of beef bacon, smoked turkey, topped with mozzarella cheese and baked to perfection.
I out for words. All I have for this pizza is, =)
Sorry but its just too good.

Pasta Carbonara - RM25.90
Beef bacon and mushroom sautéed in olive oil, then tossed in a white wine cream sauce made rich with egg yolk.
I have always been a huge fan of carbonaras but its alil hard to satisfy my tastebuds for this dish. I love the creamy texture, but if its too creamy/cheesy, I'd dismiss it. But Vins' had the dish perfect to my liking.

Spicy Lamb Bolognaise - RM26.90
Fusion lamb dish, made in a spicy bolognaise sauce and flavored with fresh herbs and wild mushrooms.
Have you ever tried Lamb Bolognaise? I kid you not, its Lamb. I find it alright, pretty similar to the normal Bolognaise.

Baked Black Cod Teriyaki - RM52
Another fusion dish, Served with side salad and aglio oglio pasta. Melts in the mouth.
The fish was grilled to perfection. But this particular dish missed a mark for me.

Fish and chips - RM27
Traditionally English, Hake fish dipped in a light batter, fried and served with French fries and coleslaw. Simply mouth watering.
You know what? I did not get to try this dish cause it was placed infront of the boys and was all gone within seconds. So I guess, I can safely assume that it was that good.

VIN’s Rack of Lamb - RM54
Imported frenched juicy tender lamb served with fresh sautéed potatoes and a garden salad. Simply melts in your mouth.
The lamb was juicy, succulent, flavorful. Its has the right combination of lamb fat with meat and with the brown gravy, its perfect.

The Black Angus 54
Air flown U.S grain fed ribeye steak grilled to your choice of doneness, served with potato
salad, accompanied by salad and rich gravy.
I know when I say what I'm going to say next, you guys will throw everything you can see at me. I'm not a big fan of rare/ med rare steak. Its not so much of the dislike for raw food, but I'm fine with raw, but I just love my meat well-done, so yeah. I didn't really like this dish.

Treacle Cake Pudding - RM15
I find the Treacle cake pudding mediocre, nothing much to shout about but the next one coming up, topped everything that I've showed you. Here's my favourite dish..

The Elusive Chocolate Truffle Cake - RM16.90
How good is the Chocolate Truffle exactly? We had second rounds of these little devils in within seconds after it was served and also, I made Jo Yi go back with me a few days after the review just for the truffle. The cake, perfectly baked with a warm chocolate core which melts the moment you put it into your mouth and ice cream to go with. The perfect combination of warm and cold.

I really like this place not only for its food, but all the more, the service that they have there. Everyone just seem to be so happy and all the time smiling. Vin's himself, is a friend to his patrons, chatting and laughing with his customers whenever hes not in the kitchen. I guess, this is the reason why I would return to Vin's aside from its chocolate truffles.

My take on the Vin's Restaurant & Pub TDDI?Ambience: 6/10

Food: 8.5/10

Price: 6/10

Vin's Restaurant & Bar, KL

No. 6, Lorong Datuk Sulaiman 1, Taman Tun Dr. Ismail,

60000 Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia

Visit Vin's FB page here.

* You can also specify if you would like personalise your meal.

They will try to accommodate your requests.
* Pics from JasonOng and JonYKT

Travelogue 2.1: Cherating '11.

2011-08-04T17:56:00.003+08:00

of the Sun, Beach and Turtles.

Jo Yi and I, both fled to Cherating about a month ago(yes, that is how overdue this post is) away from the city, away from the Bersih 2.0-hoohaah, away from work, away from people that we know. It was a random trip that we occasionally take whenever randomness strikes us. So yeah, we've been to pretty much most of the places in Peninsular Malaysia now. Which explains our plans to explore the East Malaysia, so keep your eyes close. We might just fly over one fine day. But as for now, here's how our random road trip went.

I was told by Jason that it was going to be a 5 hours journey from KL to Cherating. Oh, if you're wondering why Cherating, its cause I haven't been there my whole life and also, I missed out my chance to Cherating with Advertlets all thanks to my exams a few months back. So yeah, it has become a must for me to go to Cherating. Cherating would be the perfect place for people who love a relaxing hotel holiday. Why? Cause there ain't anything else to do in Cherating but to relax! So make sure you spend alil' bit more on the hotel that you are staying at cause believe me, it will be worth it.

'Cause it was a random trip, we had problems booking rooms. Most of them were fully booked. So we ended up in a crappy chalet hotel. Since there isn't much to do in Cherating, we both decided to crash most of the big hotels there. We've been to Holiday Villa Cherating, Royale Bintang Cherating and even Club Med Cherating. And honestly, if you are looking for an affordable yet comfortable stay, just head on over to Holiday Villa, Cherating. You can enjoy a 4-star luxury stay with almost the same price that we paid for the crappy chalet I was telling you about. But yes, if you have the budget, just head on over to Club Med. I loved it there. Not only was the place beautiful, the workers there are more than helpful and courteous, the people staying there are also very friendly.

We head on to Kemaman, Terengganu for lunch. Apparently their lekor there is really good according to the GPS. So we were at Che Wan's for lunch where we got to try the local delicacies; the keropok lekor, otak-otak and to our surprise, something named Satar. Everything is made of fish and the Satar and the otak-otak is wrapped with banana leaves and grilled to perfection. I don't really find them appetizing though. Its edible, but definitely not the best lekor nor otak-otak that I have had before cause of pungent fishy smell.

Satar

Lekor.

Other than crashing hotels, we also decided to check out the local tour and the one recommended to us was Hafiz Cherating Activities, or perhaps the only one there in Cherating for that matter. But he is really friendly. They have a line up of activities for tourists like us; Kayaking, River Boating, Turtle Sighting and whatever else that I cannot remember. We've pretty much done most of the activities there, so we've decided to give the rest a pass except for Turtle Sighting which happened to be something that I have always wanted to experience.

So yea, it was my chance to absorb the surrounding, take pictures and relax till nightfall. Ah, Bliss. I've decided to make it a B&W series for Cherating cause I'm very into that effect lately, heck, who am I kidding, more like for a very long time now. So anyways, here it is.

When night came, I was ecstatic. I can't wait to witness how the female turtles lay their eggs and then never to see its offsprings anymore after returning to the vast sea. Its pretty saddening if you ask me, after 3-5 hours of agonizing labor of hole digging, and making sure that its eggs are safe, it will then have to dig another hole as to confuse the predator. Even though the turtles give a rough number of 80-160 eggs each time, only 1-2 survives the harsh environment. I took a video of it and some terrible pictures cause we were couldn't use the flash.

That's pretty much it for my short very much needed getaway. Cherating, though not the best beach that I've been to, it definitely has its charm. This is till my next getaway.

Toodles.

Himalaya Herbal Haircare.

2011-08-02T18:51:00.001+08:00

I have been battling with hair loss lately and its starting to worry me quite a bit. I mean, believe me when I say I'm worried. Its not the normal one or two strands of hair when I comb my mane, its a whole handful of them after my shower. So yes, I did what I do best, I ask Dr. Google. Browsing diligently through every page, I came across this folk tale which says that the people with the healthiest, long, silky, shiny hair are all from the Mount of Himalayas because of the richness of herbs that they have there.

And me being me, first thing that came to my mind was, "So now I supposed to climb the Mount of Himalayas to get long and silky healthy hair?"

Yeaahhh, thats me when I was told that I have to climb this.....

jusstttt to get to thiss???

hmmmmm...... as much as I loved an adventure, I definitely cannot pursue this noble path to the heavenly hairdom with the amount of work piling up on my desk right infront of me.

So yes, so now what? Disappointed, I started my routine by checking the mail. To my awe, Himalaya actually came knocking on my mail box! It was a few weeks back when I was invited to join Himalaya and A'Cut Above Academy for a hair wash using their new Himalaya Gentle Herbal Daily-use Shampoo. First and foremost, meet the strong line up.

Himalaya's Herbal Shampoo is divided into 2 main lines; the 2-in-1 for people with healthy hair and also the Protein line which targets people with different hair problems like the hair-fall, dandruff or easy-tangle hair for both Shampoo and Conditioner. They also have hair oil for both strengthening the hair roots and also for those with dandruff problem for weekly use. After every hair wash, it is best if we put on a layer of protection and that is where the Protein Hair Cream comes into place. With these, you can rest assure that your hair is in good hands because Himalaya's products uses natural ingredients which are clinically tested. So if you have sensitive skin or problem hair scalps, worry not. Himalaya has even proven to be able to help people with balding problems. Best of all, all these products above are very economically priced.

We were given a hair test to go microscopic on our hair to better target our individual hair problems.

These are the products all the way from Himalaya to suit my hair needs.

To my joy, I only have mild hair loss problem which is normal for people with long hair.

fuhh~

The other bloggers having their very relaxing hairwash cum head and neck massages.

Again, I was late and hence the wait.

The very first step; Pre-Wash Nourishment with the Protein Hair oil. Drench your scalp with the oil then massage thoroughly for 5-10 minutes then wash off with the Protein Shampoo made of Chickpea, Amla & Black Myrobala as well as Licorice; all these high in natural proteins to strengthen and promote hair growth, Conditioned with the Repair & Regeneration Conditioner which has Aloe, Chickpea and Bean Sprouts; which also are high in protein contents. To top it all of, apply the Protein Hair Cream as an all-day leave on protection after it is towel-dried. They blow dry and taaa-daaa!

I'm done.

Yes, probably not the stairwell to hairdom heaven, but I'm happy with my hair. Its definitely smooth and silky now and I loveeeee the smell! Everything with a great scent deserves an extra point. And also, my hair is much healthier now, I see less hair lying aimlessly on my room floor. Hey, good hair and I didn't even break a sweat climbing the Himalayas, how good can that get? So, Imma' leave the Himalayas Mountain to probably a few years from now when I conquer it peak one day, but for now, I am happy I can get them from the nearest Watsons or Guardian shelves at a very reasonable price.

iMovieBuff: Captain America; The First Avenger.

2011-08-01T15:57:00.000+08:00

I've been looking forward to Captain America since the moment I saw its sneakpeak appearance on the big screens a year ago. Like I've said before, I have been surrounded by Marvel/DC comic books ever since I was a small girl. I have always suspected if my eldest brother, who's nine years my senior, valued his comics more than his life; yes they are very very tight. So anyways, its not only my fascination for Captain America that propels me towards this movie, but also the fact that Chris Evans, better known as the Human Torch from the Fantastic Four and how his six-packs body could be transformed into looking like a scrawny little boy at the beginning of the movie. Okay, other than my admiration for both the ohemgeee-hot leading actor and the state of the art CGI technology, here is what I think of Captain America; the First Avenger.

#1. Again, it has the generic superhero story.

Yes, the muscular, big and handsome Captain America was nothing but what most deemed as a loser; small and scrawny, never noticed by any girls, always bullied by everyone, but never walking away from a fight. This I deemed as a very honorable act, a quality that is very rare to people today. So yes, this scrawny little guy, has a big heart. Though failing many times because of his ill health, he has never given up in his hopes of wanting to contribute to his country that he love so much. And, everything changed when Dr. Erksine acted by Stanley Tucci from Devil Wears Prada, recruited him for the secret Project Rebirth which transformed him into Captain America. Loser turned hero; checked.

Again, Captain America has quite a common story line. Dr Erksine told Rogers the reason he was chosen was because of his extraordinary courage, wits and conscience- being the good guy basically. Also, it wasn't a surprise as the movie progressed to reveal that Dr Erksine has before this tested his imperfect research on the antagonist of the story, Johann Schmidt aka the Red Skull, Nazi Germany's head of its secret HYDRA research department who wants to conquer the world himself.

And so, Captain America, which was initially wrongfully treated as just a tool for propaganda during war avail as everyone's super hero when he saved 400 men from HYDRA which includes his best friend Hodge who has been there whenever he was bullied. Then on, he with his army, fought against the Red Skull while romance between him and an officer of the Strategic Scientific Reserve, Peggy Carter blossoms alongside the progress of the story. Hero gets the Girl; checked.

Captain America then had his final showdown with Red Skull on the plane which Red planned on to use to destroy America. It was a pretty alright fight, exciting and all, but then again, came the really potong-stim part, Red died not cause Captain killed him or anything, he disintegrated into thin air cause of the powerful source of energy which was lost buried thousands of years ago by the Egyptians and left the plane to fly directly into New York City. So Captain had to plunged it down into the open seas before its too late. So yes, a heroic kamikaze act. But then again, the Captain had survived, only to realise that he has slept for over the past 70 years, to the year of 2011. Save the world; checked.

#2. Loved the CGI and action scenes.

Yes, they nailed it! I really liked the action scenes and how the whole film was shot. I mean, how can you possibly take about a hundred pounds of muscles off Chris Evan's perfect body and made him shorter and smaller in size yet looked so realistic? It was way better compared to the Green Lantern, Thor or even the Transformers. In fact, I think, it would be really good if you watched it in 3D. A lot of scenes in this movie was meant for 3D, so if you want to, go for it! I think its going to be worth your cash.

#3. Impressed with the idea of the story.

I have to admit that I have always liked it when they link stories together. Captain America, set in the 30s-40s, they brought in the then already famous, founder and owner of STARK corporations, Howard Stark, the father of Iron Man. Also again, I love how they show the power can be dangerous if fallen into the hands of the wrong person. The only reason why Dr. Erksine chose Rogers is because of his genuine intention for good and when given the privilege of power, it will be utilized for the better of mankind, unlike Red, who misused his given potential for evil.

I loved how MARVEL's marketing strategy slowly but surely built the buzz and hype towards their Summer blockbuster next year, The Avengers. I'm not sure if you guys had watched the 90s version of the Avengers, but I sure did and I loved it then and am looking forward to the remake of it next year. So yes, again, like the other MARVEL movies, stay back till the very end of the credits for a little extra on how Captain America join forces with the other heroes like the Ironman and Thor in the Avengers!

So I give a 6.5/10 for Captain America. I thought it was much better than Thor and Green Lantern definitely but still just an average movie. Anyways, I have always loved this poster.

Special thanks to WD for the Gold Class tickets.

Makan-logue #4: the Upstairs cafe, Subang Jaya.

2011-07-28T14:36:00.001+08:00

Its very important to me, that I have a place to escape to with my lappie, sipping a good cup of hot chocolate, inhaling the air with a slight twinge of the aromatic scent of coffee. I have been in search for my second home for a while now, and so far, thanks to a great chef friend of mine, Rick who've introduced me the place, only the Upstairs Cafe came close to my standards in terms of its ambiance, food and coffee. Here's why the Upstairs Cafe located opposite Subang Jaya Medical Center (SJMC) is on top my list for the perfect short, much needed, getaway.

Ambiance.

The perfect place to chill with your friends or even if you are like me, the perfect place for a short escape. With wooden furniture and parquet of warm soft shades of brown and cream, accented with alittle red and white cushions, lit by dimmed fluorescent light perfect for reading, made me fall in love with the place completely the moment I reached the end of the staircase. Yes, you will have to go up the staircase for the cafe, hence the name. The very reason why I loved the place is simply because of the soft scent of aromatic coffee beans which somewhat helps me feel relaxed and right at home. The Upstairs cafe is the perfect place to be if you want to feel cosy and comfortable.

Food.

I have so far tried its Spaghetti Bolognese and have loved it the instant I tasted it. The full sweet and sourish tomato taste with the strong smell of melted Parmesan cheese all mixed together with the homemade pasta and minced beef is not only appetizing to look at, but believe me, it tastes really good too. The pasta, only RM8, what a steal!

I've also tried its onion cheese quiche. This is actually my very first time trying a quiche. Nothing big though, its what I would call, a savory open pie cause its fillings are usually chopped meat, vegetables, and cheese. The onion cheese quiche was good, really. I have always loved the combination of cheese and caramelized onions been it on pizzas, breads and even now, quiche. The fragrant smell of the onion with a twinge of onion sweetness combines with the saltiness of the cheese is perfect. And the quiche is only RM 8.50.

Cakes. This is my favorite part. What good is a coffee shop if it is without good cakes right? I have only tried its blueberry cheese cake for now(am making it a point to try all their cakes one day) and I loved it. I am a big fan of blueberry cheese since the very first time I had it in Genting, about a decade back. I haven't found any so far which could top that until now. I have a weird thing with cheese. I never liked frozen cheese, the reason being I hate the pungent smell of the cheese but I love the fragrant smell of melted cheese once the heavy pungent dairy smell is gone. And this is why, I only take cheese cakes with a thicker cookie base. Another plus point, they use digestive biscuits which naturally already have a smell and taste that I like. Best of all is, they use big natural blue berries to top off the cheese cake. I really like the natural sweet taste of the blueberries and the cheese. A slice of blueberry cheese cake, only for RM 6.50. They have a variety of other cakes too but their best seller is the red velvet, which I am planning to give it a try on my next getaway.

Coffee.

I am pretty boring when it comes to coffees. Its either frappucinos or hot chocolate. And so far, I have tried their mocha frappucino and also Rick's caramel macchiato. The rich taste of coffee with the chocolatey taste of the chocolate at the end of every sip won me over. I'm not a big fan of caramel so, I didn't really like the caramel macchiato, but apparently, Rick, a student-chef approves of the macchiato and said that its hard making a good macchiato like this one. So, good cups of coffees, checked only at RM 8.50 for the frappe and RM 8 for the macchiato.

So here I am, sharing my favorite getaway spot with you. I will be there at least once a week, so if you spot me there, make sure you say hi! Also, know that the food and beverages served here are all homemade,

yes that includes their cakes which are outsourced by homemakers in Subang.

My take on the Upstairs Cafe, Subang? Ambience: 7/10
Food: 8/10
Coffee: 8/10

Price: 7/10

Upstairs Cafe

(Located above the famous Kafe Bawang Merah owned by his father)

1st Flr, 12A, Jalan SS12/18

Subang Jaya, Selangor

Opening Hours: 3:00pm-11:00pm, Mon-Sat

Closed: Sun

Tel: 03-5611 9171

MTV World Stage 2011!

2011-07-27T15:32:00.001+08:00

MTV World Stage is back again in Malaysia! And this time, they are back, bigger and better! Remember how Katy Perry was here last year to wrap the whole show? This year they've brought in big names like 30 seconds to mars, Neon Trees and even the Korean heartrobs, the Beast alongside our Malaysian pride, PoPshuvit with their famous Mara Bahaya to close their act.

Check out some of the pictures I've taken with my iPhone cause MTV decided that it is unwise for the patrons to be bringing in cameras, oh and also any drinks from outside. Cameras I understand, but drinks? All thanks to them, tons of the girls, even guys who have been there since 10am in the morning, fainted by the end of the day.

The Beast.

VJ Utt and VJ Holly.

This was how close I was.

Tyler Glenn from Neon Trees took charge of the stage!

Thats Tyler on screens.

Here's my favorite two for the night, Neon Tree's hit single, Animals.

and 30 Second to Mars' Hurricane.

iMovieBuff: Harry Potter 7: The Deathly Hallows II.

2011-07-27T13:35:00.005+08:00

*So this is bidding farewell to a friend whom we have became so fond of for the past decade.

Yes, I know, Voldemort's face, memang nak kena pukul.

But anyhows, here's what I think of HP coming from a huge fan of the book.

Rupert Grint, Daniel Radcliffe, Emma Watson, young, clean and cute, 2001.

I know this felt like it was just yesterday right? I have been a Harry Potter fan since the very first book (Ya call me a Hairy Pottie nerd.) but never the movie really. I have always felt that the movie never really do the book justice except for the very first one(The Sorcerer's Stone). Though I have diligently went to the cinemas for every sequel only to have excited the hall with disappointment, but to my delight, the last(The Deathly Hallows) and final episode was not that much of a disappointment.

The trios once again, 2011, all grown up, the same but perhaps with extra hair at unforeseen areas now.

And so, why did I hate HP2-6 and loved HP1&7? If you have read the book, I think you would pretty much agree with me. But anyhow, here's why:

#1. Terrible story telling.

Seriously, I have always wondered, how can anyone in their right mind, understand what the hell is the movie trying to tell the audience? I honestly couldn't understand the whole brilliant idea and story of Harry Potter if I did not read the books myself. I remembered, even though I have read the books, I was very much blurred myself when they did a 5 chapter long story and details into a 5 minutes scene. Imagine how much important details were left out!

#2. Terrible actors.

I am not shy to say this, but Daniel Radcliffe must have been the worse candidate to be Harry Potter. For starters, he can't act for reals, well, that is at least till HP7(He surprised me with his performance in this sequel, it was satisfactory). And not to mention them choosing people like Robert Pattinson(Edward Cullen from Twilight) for the supposedly MOST handsome student in Hogwards, Cedric Diggory. I'm sorry, I might be a bit bias, cause as a girl, I was really looking forward to see who this handsome dude is going to be, and when HP4 came out, it was again, another let down.

oh, if you din't know, Wormtail don't look like this. He's a lot shorter and fatter.

#3. Terrible effort in depicting the story.

Okay, maybe this couldn't be counted as one of the reasons cause different people have different imagination, but yes, for me, so far, the different directors haven't really depicted the story in the way I best imagine the wizardry world to be. So yes, wasn't satisfied at how the monsters looked like, the building/ place looked like, and how the story was told. *bizzz* There goes another no-no buzz.

But then, like I said, I was happy with Harry Potter: The Deathly Hallows both part 1 & 2 and I'm glad that they have decided to make the movie into two parts, a decision I believe they should have taken a few chapters back. So here's why I am glad that the legacy of HP ended this way:

#1. Short and sweet.

And by short and sweet, I meant, they finally succeeded in telling the story in the most compact way without leaving out any important information out. I believe, in HP7, if you have not read the book, you still wouldn't leave the cinema feeling "What just happened??" after 2 hours of staring into the huge idiot box. Atleast, you know what happened to Voldemort and why the Elderwand did not reciprocate to him. They have successfully shorten the 600++ pages of HP7 into an altogether 5 hours movie and I believe, they deserve a clap for it. The only thing that they left out which I felt was important was how Neville Longbottom(acted by Matthew Lewis) actually plays a huge role in the HP story. Yea, many of you might not know that actually that plump red cheeked boy, is actually as important as Harry Potter in the story.

#2. Better depiction of the story.

I really think that the director, the team actually, has done a better job in depicting the story closer to my expectation. With the whole "cool" charm that the wizards casts at the end of the show to protect Hogwarts against You-Know-Who, is pretty cool actually. Also not to mention the whole war against good and evil. How they portray the giants and monsters, really well done. But one thing is, I remembered from the books, that the forest creatures were supposed to be on the good side but in the movies however, it was the other way round. So yes, that is one glitch that has kept me wondering. All in all, action scenes, checked.

#3. Better acting skills.

I'm serious when I say I approve of Daniel Radcliff's acting skills. He was definitely much better this time around. And also how Emma Watson and Rupert Grint injected humor and romance into the story to give the whole story a different light, that adds up the commercial value to the movie and also projected how J.K. Rowling's intention in bringing Hermione and Ron together. In this chapter also, to make it more marketable, if you noticed, they have decided to drop the Brit'ish accent, yes, pun intended. Its a smart move really.

It was a huge movie premier in UK two weeks ago where big names which we have grown to love, Daniel Radcliffe, Rupert Grint and Emma Watson, go separate ways. It was a very touching scene at London when the three of them, bid farewell to Harry Potter.

Check this video on the last 10 minutes to the live premiere in London, and hear how the trios and Queen Rowling bid their goodbyes to Harry Potter:

So, I rate HP7 part 2 a 8/10, extra points just cause I'm bias. But do catch the movie, even if you haven't been a Pottie fan since the very beginning.

No story lives unless someone wants to listen... The stories we love best do live in us forever. So, whatever you come back by page or by big screen Hogwarts will always be there to welcome you home
-Queen Rowling

Miss World Malaysia 2011 Finalists.

2011-07-26T12:29:00.000+08:00

*Behold boys, be prepared for 25 bombshells! You have been warned.

Beauties with Brains, that's what they call them. The Miss World Malaysia title, is very different from other beauty pageants because not only that the girls will have to be a beauty themselves, they have to be all together beautiful from the inside out too. The Miss World Malaysia will have to have a big heart for charity, intelligent and must be an all-rounder. And after an agonizing six-months search, here's the 25 finalists for your eyes only!

Flora Oh Swee Lian
Eliza Tang Siong Heng
Gail Tan Mun Yee
Desiree Tan Xiao Ci
Lavania J. Balasingam
Kavita Kaur Chopra
Yong Wan Jun
Carron Kho Siew Ching
Karen Koey Huey Ling
Laura Loh SIao Min
May Salitah Naru Kiob
Penny Lim Pei Huan
Celine Chan Wai San
Kohinoor Kaittiani
Cherish Lim Mei Yen
Jessica Fang Yun Ying
Chua Yee See
Lee Yvonne
Lilian Lee Zeyein
Gaayathri Raj
Pamela Tam Mei Yun
Chloe Chen TIen Nee
Evelyn Huan Poh Chin
Priyalakshimi Rayer
Janet Bennet

The girls and the organizers.

Nadia Heng, Miss World Malaysia 2010.

Some of the girls, Kavita, Mun Yee, Carron.

The girls will under go a one month training starting 21 July 2011 till the finale show where the Miss World Malaysia 2011 will be crowned on the 20 August 2011 at Sunway Pyramid Convention Center. They will be groomed professionally by the 1973 Miss World Malaysia, Maggie Loo, Miss Winnie Loo from ACut Above and many others to prepare them to represent Malaysia for the international Miss World pageant this year.

So people, be honest now, who's your favorite?

Hollywood WAXXXing babeehhh!

2011-07-25T16:51:00.007+08:00

I'm not sure if you guys are big fans of happy endings, but I know I am a huge fan of one. So yes, how does happy endings got anything to do with Hollywood waxing? Well, take a look at this picture below:

I'm sure you know this guy from 2008, when he planned a RM54, 000 proposal for his wife(then girlfriend, Kelly Tan) one of the hotspots for billboards along the LDP highway at Kelana Jaya. Well if you don't know, then you can read it all from here. And here's some of their wedding pictures beautifully shot by Adam Ong's wedding photography.

Again, why am I telling you this? That's because most fairy tale stories don't tell you what happens after "and they lived happily ever after", here's what happens.... They got into WAXXXing business!

Yes, if you didn't know, the romantic duos got together and started their own chain of businesses and WAXXX is one of their business. Some other bloggers and I got invited by Mandy to try first hand the professional services that they have got to offer. And yes, there goes my virgin Hollywood waxing. Even the guys were manly enough to give Manllywood a try!

Happy patrons.

Yes, WAXXX offers a every type of hair removal on your body parts you can think of! From the most common areas, to even your pubic areas. And worry not, you are in safe hands. WAXXX only offers professional services and their waxers are all trained professionals. So if you worry about waxing damaging your skin or even hurting a hell lot, believe me, I've tried it, and have survived with a satisfied smile when I left the shop.

What I love most about WAXXX not only for their courteous and professional services but also for their imported professional wax which smells so good and gentle to the skin and their comfortable ambience which actually helps in getting the jitters off you while you wait for your turn. Most importantly, hygiene is always on the top of their priorities and they ensure that everything used by every customer is disposed after every usage. Oh, and not only do they remove hair from every part of your body, they also offer a range of treatments for your after wax as well as to reduce hair growth.

Also, here's what some other blogger's said about WAXXX:

You are guaranteed to be in safe hands with every visit to WAXXX. Hygiene is number one on their list of things to take care of when it comes to their customers, followed very closely by customer satisfaction. Their utilities and tools are sterilized with hospital-grade disinfectants, and the spatulas used during every session are never double-dipped. Each and every wooden spoon was promptly disposed off after every wax application to ensure optimum cleanliness. -Karmun-

WAXXX specializes in top-notch hair removal services for both male and female, head to toe. Their wide range of services cover temporary hair removal, to permanent hair reduction, using only the best quality wax, lotions and creams imported from mainly Australia and the USA. Waxes used are also all specially formulated to give the least pain in every waxing experience. They carry a wide variety of formulas for customers to choose from, whether you’re looking to lighten sensitive areas from discolouration, prevent future ingrown hair after waxing, or just to moisturize dry parts of your delicate lady bits! -Karmun-

I always believe that keeping ourselves clean is whats most important. Well, people say that the outlook and appearance doesn't matter, I say bullsh*t. I mean, really. You will have to at least look presentable if not you would scare everyone away, no? Also, cleanliness is not only for appearance, its also for our health and hygiene. Believe me, after getting a Hollywood, I felt much cleaner overall and most importantly, during my menses.

And best of all, WAXXX is now giving out a 40% discount for first timers on all types of waxing as their opening promo from their already very affordable prices. So what are you waiting for? LIKE then on their Facebook page to get updates on the latest promotions that they have as well! And so, with my little sister down there happy, I am certified a satisfied customer. I know I would definitely make WAXXX my chosen waxing parlour to maintain my mane every month.

WAXxx Hair Removal Experts,

J-G-17 Jalan PJU 1/43,Aman Suria,

47301 Petaling Jaya,Selangor Darul Ehsan

T: +603 7880 5588F: +603 7880 1808

iMovieBuff: Larry Crowne.

2011-07-19T17:19:00.000+08:00

Tom Hanks has always been an actor that I will spend time looking out for his movie. So far, my favorite work of his is still Forrest Gump(which started the whole Bubba Gump chain restaurants), Catch me if you can (with another of my favorite, Leonardo DiCaprio) and also Cast Away. Even from this 3 different genres of movies, you can see that he is pretty versatile as an actor and so far, I would say, he ain't my favorite, but he is still pretty good.

Larry Crowne, his latest project. He is not only the actor but also the writer and director of this movie. I guess he pretty much believe in this story that he wants to tell the whole world about. And with big names like Julia Roberts as Mercedes Tainot, the both veteran in the field, pretty much just gave you the right amount of reason to watch it, isn't it? They even brought in big names from different big drama series like Heroes/ Star Trek; George Hosato Takei, Malcolm in the Middle/ Breaking Bad; Bryan Cranston, and That 70's Show; Wilmer Valderrama.

So aside from the familiar faces, what is so great about this movie? Well for me, here's what I think of Larry Crowne:

#1. Light-humored movie.

Well, its a feel good movie that I guess, everyone should go for simply just to brighten up your day. With the witty lines and light humor jokes that I believe most of everyone can related to is the main charm to what I think this whole show is about. Just sit back and be amazed with Tom Hanks' wits and see how he develop the characters with a touch of of humor. Good movie to go to if you have had a bad day.

#2. Relatability.

I always find movies like Larry Crowne some what relatable to every average joes and janes out there. Just like you and me, Crowne under went what we usually call, the lowest point of our lives. Crowne was described in the show to have lost his wife and then later lost his job just because he did not have a tertiary education. The cruel reality of the world huh? And without his job, he then lost his house, a place he calls home. But lucky for Crowne, he had great friends. Friends who pushed him into pursuing his studies and friends who made him feel right at home again. Oh and also learning how to fall in love again.

#3. Not much of a storyline.

All in all, I think, there isn't much of a story to the whole movie. Its pretty straight forward to the point that there is no direction to the whole movie. So yes, this is where Larry Crowne lose out I guess. For me, its just a movie that is made for the sake of making a movie and there is nothing more to it. There is no message that the movie makers are trying to communicate to its audience, or maybe it did, but failed terribly in trying.

So yes, I rate Larry Crowne a 4/10 just cause it was a movie that is more of a feel good, light-hearted comedy which acts as a short getaway for everyone from their hectic and stressful schedules. It was said to be a good movie with utterly more self-reinvention insights to life, but it was a let down unfortunately. Oh, but then again, I loved the quote from George Bernard Shaw in this movie and also the chio scooters!

Special thanks to Nusantara and Advertlets for the movie passes!

Concept 10 10: The future of Exercise.

2011-07-18T11:52:00.000+08:00

I have always been a health fitness freak but yeah, I slacked and have fallen to the dark side for the past few years when I failed to exercise on a daily basis. I too have succumbed to the evil cookies and fattening yet oh-so-good food in Malaysia. Eh, don't blame me, if you're a true Malaysian, you'd know how hard is it to resist the wide variety of good food we have here. So yeah, I have grown very much, not vertically unfortunately but horizontally since my days back in school when I was once very actively participating in runs and also was 1/7 of the netball school team.

Sports day, 5 years back. Yes, I know, I was darn dark and different.

Gym time!

Being back in KL and the weighing machine shouting out for help, I have recently successfully gotten back into my exercising regime. Well, I usually still go to my brother's gym to break a sweat or two, until I found out about Concept 10 10. What is Concept 10 10? It is the one stop solution for busy people who wants to get in shape and stay healthy but couldn't find the time to do it.

Concept 10 10 is actually an international brand with franchises all over the world like Greece, USA, Denmark, Abu Dhabi, Dubai, New Zealand and Saudi Arabia. With more than 25 years of experience with high intensity training, you can rest assured that this new concept is safe and effective for you. Well, in simple words, Concept 10 10 can be summarised in to these following points to give you a clearer picture:

#1. 20 minutes High Intensive workout.

Concept 10 10 dubbed as the future of Exercise is what people like me really need. I am always on the go, and I always couldn't find time to keep myself healthy and in shape. I came across concept 10 10 and I was really intrigued with its concept, where you only spend 20 minutes of high intensity workout, to eventually strengthen and build your muscles. And to do this, every exercise must be done in a very slow motion, 10 seconds each way, hence the name "Concept 10 10". This way, muscles work to its maximum during the entire movement and a maximum number of muscle fibres are involved, eventually building every strand of muscles you have in your body. Concept 10 10 yields a much better result without any risk of injuries, such as tearing of muscles or joints and tendons.

6 machines to target every muscles in your body.

#2. Privilege of Privacy and Personal attention.

At concept 10 10 you will also enjoy the privilege of the supervision of a personal instructor to both encourage you and guide you to maximise your exercising regime. There will be no disturbing elements throughout your whole 20 minutes of workout; no waiting, no onlookers, no other people in the room, no music, no distractions. So people who loves the privilege of privacy, Concept 10 10 is perfect for you.

You'll even have your own locker to keep your personal belongings when you work out.

#3. 20 Minutes, once a week.

With Concept 10 10, you will only need to work out 20 minutes, once a week. Many people are surprised that one training session per week should be enough to produce optimum results. The high training intensity is the reason why once a week is not only enough, but also the best option.When your body is intensely stimulated, a number of processes are triggered, and also, your body is so strongly affected that it needs a pause of about one week before a similar intensive training session should be performed. Your body needs time for recovery after training. And our body usually need a period of 5-10 days for recovery and that is why only 20 minutes a week, is all the exercise that you need for a week.

#4. Exercise with comfort.

And also, with Concept 10 10, you need not break a single drop of sweat throughout the whole 20 minutes of high intensity workout. Impressive ain't it? This is because, a research has been done that proves that our muscles work more intensively in relatively cool surroundings therefore, Concept 10 10 aim to maintain the temperature to a 20 degree celcius in the training room. Sweat is actually just something that your body produces when it cannot get rid of surplus heat, and sweat does not in itself have any training effect. So yes, you don't even need to take a bath to meet up with your friends after the intensive workout!

#5. Exercise, a Lifestyle choice.

At Concept 10 10, they aim to incorporate exercise into the lifestyles of each and every customers by the end of their session. As for now, they have two kick-start packages to get you started. The 6-months and the 12-months lifestyle programme that you can choose from.

So hurry now! They are currently having the Keep Fit Together promotion, where you purchase 4 sessions for RM488 and get 4 sessions free for a loved one. Hurry though, this promotion only last till 31st July 2011. 8 session for only RM488, I'd say that's a slick deal! Head on over to their website by clicking here and also their Facebook page to learn more.

Here's the address to their franchise in KL:
Unit A2-1-01Solaris Dutamas
Jalan Dutamas
50480 Kuala Lumpur
Malaysia

Phone: 1300 22 10 10

PUMA FAAS Test Challenge!

2011-07-17T11:32:00.000+08:00

I RAN IN A HIGH-WAISTED SKIRT LAST FRIDAY! Hahahha. What better way to say TGIF than this huh? Well if you guys who haven't tried wearing tight high-waisted skirts before, then you wouldn't know what am I talking about. Anyways, lemme rewind back to why was I crazy enough to be running in a skirt.

Mynjayz, JonYKT, Davidchinsays and AzrinAziz, Advertlets bloggers showing their cheeky sides.

Last Friday was the launching of PUMA's FAAS launch event. FAAS is Puma's new line of running shoes and who best to be their ambassador than the fastest man in the world, Usain Bolt? Yes, and they had a challenge last Friday too. The fastest runner in a 25m sprint, man and woman, stand a chance to win up to RM500 worth of PUMA products and also a chance to meet Usain Bolt in person! Yes, so now you know why I ran in my skirt?

The one.fm crew!

Siti Saleha showing off her Puma FAAS.

Chermaine Poo getting ready to run! oh and she won the fastest runner for female category.

Thats Chermaine Poo with Rina Omar from 8tv Quickie!

Everyone was having so much fun. Even big names like Chermaine Poo, Siti Saleha, and 8tv Quickie, Rina Omar was there to join in the fun! I came superbly unsuitable for the occasion, mind you, I will have to go to work after, but I couldn't resist the fun that everyone was having! I decided to take up the challenge and so I ran. And running and skirts really don't go side by side, my skirt was going up even before I reach the finishing line, so I slowed down to not have a "gutterpost" moment. hahaha. It was fun all in all.

And the FAAS shoes, my oh my, I really loved how comfortable it felt and how light it really is. I might actually consider getting one for my gym sessions.

The PUMA FAAS 500 Winter

The PUMA FAAS 300

*ps: Oh speaking of which, do any of you know where I can possibly get this NIKE free? I've been dying to get it for a while now but its off the shelves already. Do let me know. Thanks.

Also, I finally got myself a fan page months after being bugged by Josh, so pleaseee do me a favor and LIKE it kayys? It would make me really really happy. =)

IVY Beauty Corporation Sdn Bhd.

2011-07-16T11:03:00.001+08:00

I'm not sure if you have heard about IVY Beauty, but I'm confident that everyone of us have seen and probably have tried their products without even realising that its IVY Beauty. Cause I know I was ignorant like that until I saw their products when I was invited by Ivy Beauty to join their relaunching in Sunway Pyramid a few weeks ago. Well, try taking a look at the picture below and you'll get what I meant.

You get what I mean now? You've probably have seen them around cause they have been around for 10 years now. Ms Monica Wong, the founder of Ivy Beauty. She has been in the industry for more than 15 years before she took a huge leap into starting off her very own IVY Beauty Corporation Sdn Bhd. And now, IVY Beauty is actually an international brand, grazing the shelves all over USA, Vietnam, Cambodia, Australia and many other countries. So you wonder, why 10 years internationally but in Malaysia itself, not many have heard of its name? IVY has always been around, grazing the shelves of our own Guardians and Watsons. Do check them out the next time you are there.

So IVY had had an event a few weeks back in to relaunch the brand in Malaysia and also to highlight its key products, the Diamond White line and also its, Bio Vit-C line which lifts and firms the skin. They have also with them, their ambassador, DJ from one.fm, Ms Jane Ng, a bubbly sweet girl to give their line a face in hopes to carry IVY further in Malaysia. It was definitely an interesting event. They even had the members of the media, trying out the products!

Ms Monica Wong, the Founder of IVY Beauty, sharing her experience.

DJ Jane Ng, the Ambassador of IVY Beauty.

Demo session of product on audience present.

Members of the media, trying out the products.

I was given the products to try them out myself and honestly, the first thing that attracted me when I first used the products was its fragrance. I've been given samples to try and for the past few weeks, I've been using Leivy Naturale, its body shampoo, Silk Shine shampoo, aromatherapy lotion and its Diamond White face care products. Other than the fragrance that I like about IVY is that it leaves your skin soft and supple but not dry. I have a very difficult skin; the T-zone. So products that I often use causes my skin to be dehydrated but yet still oily. But so far, IVY's products has been very very kind to my skin. So hey, why not give it a try yourselves? Head on over to your nearest Guardian or even Jusco for it. Best of all, their products, though an international brand, is rather economical and kind to your purse.

And this is me after trying their products.

oh, pardon me for my ss-ness. haha.

Travelogue 0.4: Insights on Bali, Indonesia. 1.3

2011-07-08T17:48:00.002+08:00

So, here's the last post to a short insight on Bali, from my first trip there, last October on the MUST-DOs in Bali. Read the first and the second one here!

MUST-DOs:

1. Try the Babi Guling and Ayam Bertutu.

Their local famous delicacy. Its a combination of 3 types of pork cooked differently. They are of different textures; crispy, braised and roasted. But they are generally spicy and that is exactly why I like it. But the one I tried apparently isn't very good and authentic. If you want to try the "real" one though, make sure you see them rolling the pig on the stick to roast it. Those are what they say, the authentic, delicious ones. The delicacies here in Indonesia is slightly different compared to Malaysian food. They are generally more spicy and if you don't take spicy food, believe me, you'll opt for fast food/ western cuisines that they have along Kuta Beach.

Ayam Bertutu.

Babi Guling.

2. Bargain!

MUST REMEMBER TO BARGAIN! Start really low and work your way up. Believe me, you won't regret. When I was there, I was afraid of bargaining with the locals, as usual, feeling shy, not nice etc. But when my friend worked her charm, fuhh... believe me, its worth it. They will go really low and that's when you realise that it their profit margin is super high if you were to agree to the first price that they name. Not a very smart move for you, believe me.

3. You can get your essentials there.

I'm not pulling your leg when I'm saying this; you can go to Bali without packing anything. Believe me. Clothes there are dirt cheap; dresses are around RM10, towels RM4-6, essentials like shampoo, cotton bud, are averagely cheaper than those in Malaysia. Oh, and remember, they use the two-pin plug socket. So remember to bring your universal adapter there, but if you don't yes, you can get it from their 24 hours drug stores too.

4. Get your Hard Rock Tee.

I don't know about you, but I have made it a lifelong goal of mine, to collect all the Hard Rock t-shirts from all around the world. So yes, if you too have the same goal as I do, remember to get the one from Bali. Its along the Kuta Beach. The prices around the world is similar. RM 80++

5. Try Fukutaro's sushi.

If you are an avid fan of sushis like I am, you have to try the sushi in Bali. I was over at Fukutaro Legian, and their sushis are by far, the best sushi that I have ever tasted. Their two-storey Japanese house-like design makes you feel as though you are in Japan. They have a wide variety of Japanese cuisines but as usual, me and my friend, we went for their sushi platter. The fishes that they used were very fresh, thick and succulent, it leaves you wanting more. We also ordered the potato salad and it isn't like the one we have here in Malaysia, the coleslaw-looking type, but its a whole potato, baked and only seasoned with a small amount of salt. I loved it. And best of all, the prices here even slightly cheaper than the normal chain sushi restaurants in Malaysia. So head on over to Fukutaro if you are ever in Bali. They have a few outlets in the whole of Bali. Check them out here.

Fukutaro Legian Paradiso

Chair 58 persons, Zashiki (Tatami room) 40 persons

Open 9:00-24:00

Jl.Legian118Legian Paradiso Hotel

Tel:758777

My take on Fukutaro Legian Paradiso:

Ambience: 7/10

Food: 9/10
Price: 8/10

6. Stroll along the beaches or the streets of Bali yourself.

If you really want to experience Bali for yourself, remember to opt to walk more often than to take taxis or motor rides that the locals offer. Believe me, it would be an experience to remember for life but do be careful. Street hagglers will approach you trying to sell whatever they have in their hands, and this includes magic mushrooms. You will also get to feel first hand, how exactly the locals live their lives, how they behave and how they talk.

7. MUST try their local Bintang Beer.

I have made it a point for myself to try all the beers from the places that I've been to. I'm not a huge beer fan, whiskey and coke works best for me, but well, beer comes in second after liquor. Anyways, yes, trying the different types of locally brewed beers from all over the world is my goal after collecting the Hard Rock Tees. And you must try their local Bintang beer. It is really cheap actually compared to other international beers like Budweiser and whatever-nots. If I'm not mistaken it is only about RM5 per bottle of Bintang beer if you get it from their local 7/11. Price is good, but what about the taste? It is rather smooth compared to some beers we have here Carlsberg and Tiger. But of cause, its still a tad bit far from top beers like Hoargarden. But hey, its still pretty good for such a price.

8. Spa.

It wouldn't be a complete holiday without a full Spa treatment session. I'm one who wouldn't mind paying for a self pampering session any time of the day and being in Bali, all the more reason for me to go for one. It is comparatively cheaper than the ones we have here in KL and for that 2 hour getaway session, rest assured that you will feel rejuvenated and refreshed. The prices ranges from RM 50-60 only for 2 full hours of massage. How good is that?

The one above which I took picture of is pretty much so-so, but there are much better ones that my family who've been there had recommended. So you can give the one below a try:

Jaens Spa Bali Ubud

Phone : +62361 971312, +6281236866590.
Email : jaensspaubud@gmail.com
Website : www.jaensspa.blogspot.com

*ps. All pictures are taken by me. Pictures are not to be taken without permission.

iMovieBuff: Transformers 3: Dark of the Moon.

2011-07-07T16:22:00.004+08:00

I guess, no one needs any introduction for this movie anymore huh? Its pretty redundant, but what the hell. So basically, Transformers began as the Hasbro Transformers toy line which centered on two fractions of warring alien robots; Autobots and the Decepticons. And I guess, the whole idea of how cars can turn into omgftwbbq-cool alien robots, isn't surprising that it catch the hype from people all over the world for decades now. Today, Transformers grazes everything I guess, comic books, animation, video games, and also films!

Ok, first of all, if you haven't already, you have to, HAVE TO watch the first two films. If you don't like Transformers since your childhood, if you don't fancy sexy-orgasmic cars, or if you simply hate action movies, or even mind blowing, chicks-you-just-want-to-sleep-with, believe me, you will still like Transformers. Why? Easy, cause they have all the above! Here's why.

#1. The main idea of Transformers.

Even the whole basic idea of Transformers, spells cool all over. Seriously, creators of Transformers are either geniuses or probably have made a deal with the devil. Who would have thought about combining the three coolest things for boys decades back? Cars and robots with the possibility of the existence of a whole new race in the universe? I might be biased, I love sexy cars and yes, the possibility of the existence of aliens. Ah well, still, who can deny that orgasmic sound that the robots make when they transform from sexy sport mobiles into a gigantic robot with guns that can blow everything off?

And as usual, they have the ultimate idea of the battle of good and evil where the Autobots(the good guys) fight against the Decepticons. Of cause, these robots have a long long history which trails back to their own world(Cybertron) which was destroyed years ago, and now, the war has been brought to Earth.

And like I've said in my review on the Green Lantern, heros in stories like this tend to be a no body, average joe who have nothing to lose but everything to gain, and yes, Sam (Shia LaBeouf) in Transformers, just a 14 year-old nerd who doesn't fit in school, somewhat had a yellow super car which turn out to be an Autobot named the Bumblebee. And again, that was the turning point of his life.

Well, for me, this time around, transformers is much more interesting where they go back further into the Autobots/ Decepticon history and explain why are they all on Earth. They even brought in an old veteran Autobot, the Sentinel Prime, a senior, much older compared to Optimus Prime, who has been on the moon for decades and was brought back to life by Optimus. He was then revealed as the prime who turned evil and worked with the decepticon to recreated Cybertron(the destroyed world of the Transformers) on Earth. Yes, unfinished business is always where the juicy dramas come in.

#2. The orgasmic Cars.

Like I said, I love the curves of a car. The Audi R8 has always been my first love but in this show itself, the red Ferrari 458 Italia took my breath away. I have always been a Ferrari person but the yellow Chevy Camaro that the resembles the famous Bumblebee comes in close behind. The other one that I really liked was the silver Corvette Stingray concept car. There's just something I like about the curves of the cars. I will have to say, Transformers still isn't as orgasmic as a car movie compared to the whole Fast and Furious movies, but it still is pretty cool to see how cars can change into robot parts, like how windscreens are the chests of the robots and tyres are probably their torso.

#3. Action-packed movie.

I know most guys when asked to go for the lovey-dovey chick-flick romance type of movies, you guys will probably doze off in the cinemas and when it comes to action-packed movie, you'd be jumping off your seats in excitement, do not lie. Haha. And I know, I need not explain further about how action-packed Transformers is. But, do know that in Transformers 3, they have doubled the already overwhelming action scenes in the movie! How cool is that right? Yes. But though with the escalated action scenes, Transformers 3 is a tad bit draggy at some parts of the movie.

#4. Girls you wish to have as your girlfriend.

Many of my friends were disappointed when they found out that Megan Fox isn't back for the third installation. Yes, big bummer, but they got Rosie Huntington-Whiteley as the main actress! I know a lot of people were half-hearted about this change, but hell, my friends drown my FB wall with the dilemma between Megan or Rosie. When the hot bee-stung beauty, model of Victoria Secrets graze the screens all over the world, she left every men mesmorised. For me, I've always liked Rosie since I first saw her on the VS angels campaign. But for me, I think I prefer Megan Fox in Transformers. What say you?

So yes, with all of those above, I'm bought. I rate Transformers 3: Dark of the Moon, 7/10. Minus points cause I think its a lil bit draggy at parts, but overall, it was pretty good. I loved how the story of the Autobot, turning evil for their own gain. Pretty much like us humans huh? Oh and I watched it in 3D and I think it was not worth the money. The 3D effect was minor but if you would still like to go for it, go ahead.

REV-CUP: Battle of the States Finale Party 2011!

2011-07-05T15:15:00.001+08:00

Yes, Revive has done it again! Revive Isotonic was back from last year's rave and this year, they've gone bigger and better! I'm pretty sure you've heard all about it on the radio for the past few months. I know I have and I have been keeping up with the scores since then! And also those creative pictures that everyone from the whole of Malaysia has sent in, really amazed me, some even cracked me up to the point where I fell off my chair! Not kidding.

So yes, Revive has ended this great contest with a bang this year. I know cause I was there. They even brought in big names like Pop Shuvit, Reshmonu and HunnyMadu, even DJs JJ and Jin as well as Aznil was there to host the whole show! Have a look at the pictures below:

Look at the crowd!

They even had photo booths, rodeo bull rides etc for us!

The Revive girls!

Rev-Cup Hall of Fame.

Jin and JJ in action.

Met up with my fellow Modelle mate, Mandy with her friends.

Andrew and Sam was there too!

Aznil, happily giving out prizes.

HunnyMadu charming us all with her groovy moves!

Andrew Chiam won!

Winner of the Battle of the States.

Reshmonu!

Pop-Shuvit did their famous Mara Bahaya to end the show!

Everyone was delighted, especially Andrew.

Everyone definitely had fun last Friday all thanks to Revive and with this year's twist, Revive got all the states to participate to make their state proud with their Rev Cup. Though I went in with a severe headache, I know I sure was rev-ed up by the end of the night. So here's to Revive and I know I'll be holding on to my seats to see what they have installed!

Travelogue 0.4: Insights on Bali, Indonesia. 1.2

2011-07-01T18:39:00.006+08:00

Here's my second post to insights on Bali, the MUST-GO places and also the first post here!

MUST-GO places:

1. Kuta Beach

Kuta Beach was where I witness millions of lives from all over the world, playing, enjoying, relaxing by themselves without any worries in the world. The beach there isn't exactly a beautiful sight, but if you wish to have a pedicure/manicure session overlooking the sunset, this is the place to be. Just remember to bargain for the best value. Kuta beach is also one of the few surfing spots in Bali, so girls, if you are hoping to hook up with some surfer dudes, remember to go to Kuta beach! Also, Kuta is where the city center of Bali lies. Here is where you get to shop and eat your MickeyDs if you miss them. Oh, and McDs in Indonesia have spaghetti as one of their value meals! So now, Italian is fast food too? And also, they have a lot of fake brands sold in "legitimate-looking" shops, so beware. Oh and also, Kuta would be the most ideal place for you to stay cause they have most of every thing you need there.

2. Dreamland Beach

Personally, the most beautiful beach in Bali. Dreamland beach is the site of the failed Pecatu Graha development planned by Tommy Suharto, the corrupt son of former president, Suharto. Dreamland beach is also dubbed as the new Kuta beach, mainly cause its cleaner and yet is one of the best surfing spots in Bali. They too have many stalls selling good bargains for dresses and hats, and again, remember to bargain. One of the most beautiful sunset spots in Bali.

3. Uluwatu Temple
Uluwatu Temple is the first temple that I've visited during the course of period that I was there. You will have to pay a small entrance fee when you enter the temple and you will be required to wrap a cloth around yourself as a respect to their gods. Oh, and remember to take care of your belongings. Keep your necklaces, earrings, bracelets etc before you enter. Uluwatu is also known for their mischievous monkeys that goes around stealing from the tourists. As for Uluwatu, if you are there, make sure to pay a little bit more to experience the "Kecak dance". It is a tribal dance that the locals have every night to tell the tourists the mythical story that has been passed down for generations. Experiencing the local culture with the tribal-like setting, against the sunset, it's an experience you'll love if you like watching Pirates of the Caribbean, Survivor or perhaps, Indiana Jones. Oh, we found out from the locals that Uluwatu is apparently the best place for surfing. So do ask around if you are a surfer yourself and wish to take on the waves of Bali.

4. Nusa Dua

Nusa Dua is the place to go if you wish to go for water sports. If you have been wanting to give water skiing, parasailing, snorkelling a try, be sure to head on over to Nusa Dua. The prices there are relatively cheap compared to the ones in Malaysia. If you wish to get your diving licence for a while now, Bali is the perfect place to do so. I regretted to staying long enough to get myself a diving licence cause its dirty cheap over there. However, I wouldn't recommend you to go for snorkeling in Bali. I find it a complete waste of time and money cause the places that they've brought us to was dirty and only filled with dead corals, not even a single fish was seen.

5. Tanah Lot Temple

Tanah Lot temple is a Hindu-Buddhist temple. It is one of the main tourists spots in Bali with its countless rows of stalls and street hagglers trying their best to sell whatever they have in hand to anyone that they can find. Of cause, you can find many things here, from beautiful dresses even up to handcrafted items such as handwoven bags or wooden handcrafted home deco. But what reminded me most of Tanah Lot was, yes, once again, the sunset. Though I've said that I love Bali primarily for its sunsets, the sunset in Tanah Lot was the one I remembered most. Oh, and remember to try the grilled corn there. I miss the taste of it till this very day.

6. Kintamani Volcano

Kintamani Volcano is right up north from Kuta. It takes around 2 hour drive from Kuta up to the Volcano where you can rest and enjoy a buffet lunch overlooking the breath taking view of the volcano. A little background brief for you about this volcano. It is still an active volcano and it has erupted for 24 times since 1800s. Its last eruption was in the 1940s. And Mount Kintamani is actually rested upon the beautiful Batur Lake. So, what more could be better than to enjoy lunch in the midst of God's great creations? Oh, and remember to give the Kopi Luwak a try when your on the way to the Volcano.

7. Legian

It wouldn't be a complete experience if you are in Bali without experiencing its night life. Bali's night life has been raved about by people from all over the world. I'd say, it was definitely a fun experience to have. If you are there, be sure to head on over to their tourists club. You will have to show them your passport to grant entry and it sure is fun partying there. Legian is one of the places in Bali that you can go to for pubs and bars other than Kuta and Seminyak.

8. Jimbaran Beach
If you wish to enjoy a romantic fresh seafood dinner against the beautiful sunset view, make sure you head on over to Jimbaran. There will be a long stretch of seafood restaurants overlooking the calm blue seas and it is the perfect setting for you to charm your girlfriend over as the sunsets for the day. You can even hire the local singers who goes around, hoping to serenade their customers as an extra mile taken to charm your girl all the more. And be mindful that all these, including the scrumptious meal fit for a king, is relatively cheap compared to the prices here in Malaysia. What can be better than good view, good food and good company?

9. Tegalalang Paddy Terrace

The Tegalalang paddy terrace field is also one of the places I'd suggest you pay a visit to. The period when I was over there, the paddy hasn't yet ripe and they were all bright, strong green in colour. Overlooking the view from the top, witnessing the tiny humans, harvesting the paddy rice from the ripe paddys, made me realise how small we humans actually are in the midst of God's green creation, the Earth and how lucky we are to have food and meat as our dinner everyday and yet we act as our own gods destroying what has been given to us. Anyways, make sure that you head on over to Tegalalang and I promise you your heart will skip a beat. Make sure to catch a souvenir or two from the street hagglers around. Their paintings and handcraft work there deserves admiration.

If you ask, what is the best way to get around Bali, I'd advice you to get a local tour guide. Make sure you ask him to quote exactly the price for the amount of days that you will be there and make sure that you ask him, if its possible for him to bring you all around without extra charges. The local tour there is rather cheap, but make sure you do the usual, bargain. I have yet to tour Bali fully but here's the places that I've been to on my last trip to Bali. If life permits, I hope to go back to Bali and to fully explore the beautiful place, and perhaps, try to take my heart back. haha.

Here's one if you're interested.
Name : Gusti Ngurah Jelantik
Email : info@balidaytour.com
Phone: +62-361-7882335
Mobile: +62 85 857226955 (international)
085 857226955 (local)
Address: Sukawati Gianyar 80582 Bali Indonesia

*ps. All pictures are taken by me. Pictures are not to be taken without permission.

Travelogue 0.4: Insights on Bali, Indonesia. 1.1

2011-06-28T18:47:00.005+08:00

Bali, Indonesia.- The place where I left my heart.

Bali, Indonesia. I've heard many stories from my family and friends about what they think and feel about this Island. From plain boring, to breathtakingly beautiful. If you've missed my travelogue on Bali, here it is. Here's my first post on what I think generally about Bali so you know what to expect out of your trip and some tips to share.

melaniehwa says:

Dubbed as one of the most beautiful beaches in Southeast Asia. I'd say, I pretty much agree with what most travel magazines and people say about this place. And yes, I think you guys already know that I am currently heartless since I went to Bali last October. And why did I leave my heart in Bali? I fell in love with it the moment I step foot on the land of the unknown.

Bali, Indonesia is my very first step that I have taken only 2 months after I made a solemn promise to myself not to procrastinate my achieving my dreams, which is to be a globetrotter someday. Being only 20(then) I always thought I was too young for things and I tend to procrastinate a whole lot of things that I want to do. And as for Bali, it happened rather spontaneously for me and my bestie, Jo Yi. We bought the tickets only to realise later that we were pretty broke that period of time. And so, I remembered working my ass off during my semester break doing several part time promoter/ writing jobs to pay off the trip. I definitely did not regret doing so though, cause taking that very first step, made me realise what I really love doing and that I am never too young to achieve things I want. Like what they always say, no? It only take one leap of faith to start something new.

Looking at how the locals make a living out of street haggling despite their growing age, pains me. They can be pretty scary at times but I guess, its them simply trying to make ends meet. It has been hard on Bali ever since a few years back during the Bali bombing. You can definitely see how the place, Bali, an Island fully dependent on the tourism sector, suffer since that incident. It made me realise how lucky we are being in Malaysia, where we have warm blankets at night and dinner on the table.

Witnessing the wonders of God as of how a small island like Bali itself, have can yet be so rich. From the volcanoes to the vast seas. And how people just fit into the picture. On the last day of my trip, I simply spent a few hours sitting my the beach alone and I just couldn't be more amazed with the locals there. I'm not sure if you have thought of this before, but simply just along the beach, there are thousands of different life stories to be told. Funny how our life paths collides and yet not notice anything about it huh?

*ps. All pictures are taken by me. Pictures are not to be taken without permission.

280311: I'm finally Legal! 5.0

2011-06-26T17:45:00.001+08:00

Its been three months, and now, with this post, I end my five-part birthday post. I really am thankful for all the people who have spent their time either in planning the best birthday party that I have ever had in the past 21 years, or simply just sincerely there to celebrate my existence in this world. I thank God every day for such great people in my life.

Sunday, 030411.

Just a few weeks before my actual birthday, two of my great friends, JoYi and Khairie, actually got together and started scheming for my 21st surprise birthday party. And with JoYi in the committee, its hard for me not to find out bits and parcels of information about the party. Yes, she can never keep a secret as much as she want to, but I still love her nonetheless. So yes, I've heard that it has been a hard ride for the both of them, trying to plan the perfect party for me without me digging anything out. And with that, I give the both of you, a standing ovation. Cause they did great a job in surprising me and I definitely was in the state where I was lost for words, in a good way.

Yes, the troops came and picked up me up and kidnapped me to Laila's Cafe in Kelana Jaya. A very cosy, home-y place suitable for friends and family to come together simply just to catch up or for small parties like mine. The lady owner was what I thought, one of the nicest lady I've ever met in my life. And to my surprise, the troops consisted of a few more souls that I have come to know and love. Meet the Troops:

Khairie, the mastermind behind all.

JoYi, the Justin Blabermouth.

Ju-En, the super energetic photographer.

Sarah, the niggress that everyone can't help but to love.

Diana, the strong determined young lady.

And with that, I proceed. The food there was pretty alright, but the company was better. We got to talk and I found out that there is one more surprise for me when the lady boss invited Khairie and JoYi together with Sarah up on the stage. Yes, Khairie did his solo performance and then duet with Sarah(she's an incredible RnB, jazzy, soul singer.) while JoYi accompanied them with her piano. Ohhh-emm-geeeee kan? I was beyond words. Oh, and they also made me go up on the stage to sing. And if you don't know, this is somewhat a death sentence for me. I am a shy person, as much as you all don't believe that, but yes, I can never ever sing in front of a live crowd. I'll choke and choked I did.

And then came the home made cake by Sarah's aunt. If you love chocolate cakes, you'll love this. Its a 100% Cadbury chocolate cake. I loved the company that was there, simple and genuine, just the way I would love my birthday parties to be. I couldn't think of any other way to wrap my 21st birthday!

I am thankful to God for the two great friend that I have in my life, who I've met during the time I needed a true friend most. Khairie, thank you for the effort that you've given into making my 21st a special one. Thank you for being there as a friend who listens and guides. Thank you for showing me that determination is able to bring us to great lengths. Thank you for pushing me into doing what I love most. JoYi, thank you for being the very first friend who is different from the spoilt bunch that I have had my entire life. Thank you for being a pain in the ass that I cannot help but to grow closer to everyday. Thank you for being a sister that I have never had. Thank you Sarah, Ju-En and Diana, for being there to celebrate my birthday though we have never met before. Thank you for being so real and sincere, I'd rather be in your company than hundreds of other people out there. And thank you guys, for making my birthday, the perfect 21st birthday for me.

iMovieBuff: The Green Lantern.

2011-06-25T15:34:00.003+08:00

The second of the many anticipated DC/ MARVEL superheroes movie this year. As a terribily diagnosed movie buff, The Green Lantern was definitely one of the highlights of this year that I have been looking forward to. And this one in particular, I remember cause I have been around the DC/MARVEL superheroes hype ever since I was a girl. My eldest brother, is a crazy crazy comic fan, so yeah. But however, as usual, Hollywood has changed the story, but if you guys didn't know, the Green Lantern isn't all about Hal Jordan. Its basically divided into 4 different ages of the Green Lanterns. Very much more interesting compared to the show I think. But here's the movie review for the latest hype, The Green Lantern.

The Green Lantern is basically like what most every other superheroes stories are;

#1. Slumped, low-life guy who has hit rock bottom, nothing else to lose and nothing else to gain.
#2. Comes the girl, which everyone can clearly see that she's in love with him, but he's just too afraid to acknowledge that.
#3. Comes the point of no return. The turning point of his life, which all the comic writers are planning on to make us feel "Dang, why don't that happen to me?"
#4. Hero saves the day, gets the girl, loved by all.

Yep, I guess I just pretty much just sum the whole point of comic superheroes stories in just four points. But I guess, what sells the Green Lantern is basically the points that I came up with below:

#1. It talks about how human will triumphs over fear. Call me a love sap, but yeah. I always believe that good triumphs over evil.

#2. It also highlighted the fact that humans are far more powerful than what we actually think we are, regardless of either motivated by fear or will.

#3. It showed the possibility of different live creatures from different worlds and planets. This really intrigued me. Honestly speaking, I'm not a big fan of star wars nor star trek, but the possibility and the idea of the existence of a whole new world other than Earth, is one of the things in the world that I couldn't keep my interest off.

#4. It has Ryan Reynold's packs in it and Blake Lively's hot hot bod. I don't deny that I'm jealous!

# 5. I love how they show human are vulnerable despite how good looking and successful he is in public eyes. Very similar to how real life is huh? Insecurities, pressure from the society, deepest darkest secrets, untold.

Yea, I guess, those are the plus points for the Green Lantern but for me, I don't think it was that good of a movie. This is mainly because of two reasons:

#1. Tooooooooooooooooooooooooooo long winded, pretty slow paced, very draggy. It took them too long in character development which caused them to lose the flow of the movie. They talked about how Hal Jordan had issues with his dad dying in an flight accident and how he tried his whole life to be like his one hero, his dad and also how hes too afraid of admitting his love for the girl of his dreams, Carol Ferris, equally hot daughter of a mogul which owns the aircraft company that Hal is working at. And to make it worse, they....

#2. ....ended the show with a 5 minute scene. Anti-Climax. It was basically a one man show when Hal Jordan destroyed the antagonist, which had been portrayed as a menacing evil power that everyone fears of, even the elders in the show. I mean, yeah, they want to show how powerful human will can be, but its rather anti-climax and nonsensical. How can so many green lanterns get killed but simply this new green lantern, kill this powerful force just all by himself?

So yes, Green Lantern, I rate 4/10. I gave an extra point cause I love their green lantern oath and their costume.

Oh, and special thanks to StyleKandi and Advertlets for the 3D movie passes.

David Choi LIVE in KL!

2011-06-23T17:08:00.002+08:00

The young ABK(American Born Korean) Youtube sensation from LA was here live in KL! Yes babes, you've heard me right. The orgasmic ear candy, who has over 814, 000 suscribers and over 92, 143, 522 total video views was here last weekend in our very own UCSI and as well as Rock Corner, The Curve. A songwriter/ producer at Warner/Chappell Music, he has been working really hard to achieve what he had achieved today. Even when he was at the mini concert last Saturday, he actually only slept for 3 hours for the past 3 days. Well, if you missed him, make sure you catch him the next time hes ever back here. Cause I know I definitely would.

Honestly, I wasn't a huge fan of his before I heard him sing live. I've heard of him and all, yes, but I didn't know he was such an ear candy. Ok, if you're asking, I know my other friends did, who exactly is he? He is a close friend of the famous Youtube production company in the States; the WongFu Productions and also the famous Asian RnB group, the Far East Movement. He is basically what I would conclude as the yummy product of John Mayer and Bruno Mars all blended up together, probably with a small cherry to top it off.

I feel in love with his voice the moment I step foot into his mini concert in UCSI and he sure was charismatic. A really small man, probably only five-foot-two, he's totally down to earth. He mingled with the young audience present, learning Bahasa Malaysia and sharing jokes, like how you would with a bunch of lifelong friends. So yes, voice: checked, stage presence: checked, relate ability: checked. If you know me well enough, you would know I am very particular about song writing and how I love people who write songs which is relevant to our daily lives. *ahem*worsesongwritingeverrrrrrr-rebeccablack,friday*ahem* I would say, not only did I enjoy his presence, I loved how he touched people with his life stories simply through every chord that he strums on his guitar. He even sang a funny song about how he "somewhat" know a girl on the net living all across the other side of the world, something that I think, everyone know very well of, stalking people on facebook. Don't you dare deny that. haha. So anyways, song writing: checked.

I'm a sucker for jazzy, romantic singer/songwriter, so yeah, I'm sold, period. I couldn't stop playing his songs over and over again in my mind even after I have pressed the stop button on my lappie.

David learning how to say three in BM.

"Do you say that with a 'N', oh no, its Tiga."

So honestly, I see him achieving much much more than he has already achieved in time to come. So do watch out for his name. Here's some pictures I took of him from pretty far back(I was late, as usual) and also some videos which I've recorded. Oh, I've finally created my own youtube account. So yeah, look out for my upcoming vlogs, alritey?

David charming the audience.

Oh, and also, I've decided to be more active on my instagram lately by making a challenge for myself, that is to post up at least one interesting picture of my daily life everyday. So do follow me on my twitter @melaniehwa for my daily updates via hashtag #melaniehwainstagramchallenge or my tumblr.

Toodles, love!

SUPER GT 2011 VVIP Style!

2011-06-20T16:51:00.004+08:00

CARS babehhh!! Well I got a last minute email from MAS asking me to collect my free SUPER GT tickets with some other merchandises. But I got lost for about an hour or so trying to look for the office, I decided to give up. To my defense, if you guys didn't know, I got into an accident about a week back. So now, I'm stuck with the workshop's temporary manual car. It's almost 4 years now, since I was behind the wheels working those gears and clutch, mind you, but I got it in a only a day. So pardon me ok? But now, it actually feels rather weird driving auto for me, honestly. A sign that says that, I am truly ready to own my very own sports car, no?

Right.. So yeah, it was a bummer that I didn't get those tickets but my lucky star, the famous, nice Mike Yip asked me if I would like to witness the race from the paddock itself when I ranted out to him. Yes, paddock. Boy, was I excited! Who wouldn't right? Thanks Mike! So here's pictures to my once in a lifetime experience. I do apologise for the terrible pictures. My camera isn't chio enough.

Team Credential SPECIAL Passes!

Super GT girls! Sorry when I reached they were all getting ready for the race, I couldn't get a nice picture of them. But I still know, you guys would love this shot from the back.

Racers getting all pumped up!

From the air conditioned media room. Best seats ever.

Thats the winners of Super GT 300.

First place: Nobuteru Taniguchi and Taku Bamba

The crowd trying to get their best shots of the winners!

Winners of Super GT 500

First place: Team Weider Honda Racing

Winners!

Bamba and Taniguichi interviewed by Japanese reporter immediately after their victory.

The winners of Super GT 300 and 500. Sweet ride.

Sweet sweet victory.

Pitstop babeh!

The cars was so fast, its almost deafening from the media rooftop where I took this picture.

Andrew Chiam was with us too!

I loved the experience, definitely something that doesn't happen to everyone everyday. So yes, once again, thanks Mike for that experience and who say good things don't happen? Oh and did you know, a Porche crashed into a Ferrari earlier yesterday during the parading of super cars. Omgee rite? I know.

melaniehwa's randomness: #5. Money, spoken of a Zombie.

2011-06-18T17:30:00.001+08:00

Though only twenty-one, I have so many things that I would like to achieve; for one that is definitely to be rich. Its pretty redundant to say, I guess, who wouldn't want to be rich? I've been working since I was pretty young and I have learnt the value of money the hard way. But still, I've always wondered, what will happen when I am actually rich? I'm just saying, what if. I'm never really a materialistic person, no, I'm not saying money isn't important to me, ~~fuck~~ yeah, it is. And like I've said in a post I've written before this, money is important, but it ain't everything. And if you'd know me, I get pretty much contented whenever I get enough money to simply fulfill whatever I want, that is for now, the most costly of all, my wanderlust.

Going back to the point, I've always wondered, what if one day, I am rich? Will everything still mean as much as it is to me now? I have supported everything that I have and I want so far from my hard earned money and with that, everything that I reap has a bigger meaning attached to it. But when money isn't a problem to me anymore(hopefully) in the future, will my passion for travelling still be as deep and meaningful? or will it simply feel like being in another city in Malaysia? Will I still be passionately writing about what I feel and learn from my adventures and dreams of becoming a globetrotter? Will I still feel terribly touched by the life stories that I have the privilege to cross paths with or will I be nonchalant about it? Will it still be as exciting for me to venture into the unknown and absorbing as much as I can from the foreign land? I wouldn't know, honestly.

Money, capable of pushing humans to their limits. Question is, is it really an advocate of fear or the enforcer of human will, to survive and to do better? Either way, money is capable nonetheless to act as a drive into pushing humans to beyond their limits. But then, comes the question, is pushing beyond human limits a good thing? or does it deter humans from our moral beliefs and values(which acts as our limitation)? Is it good then to be rich but yet with no moral values to uphold proudly?

But then again, will I ever feel rich enough to be rich? An honest question to all I guess, will enough ever be enough for you? Money, funny thing I would say, is just good quality paper with the faces of influential people printed on it and yet, people would go to unfathomable distances just to try to get as much of it as possible. Notice I said try, cause it will never be possible to have all of it. Again, what good would money be, if 2012 decides to strike? or maybe a zombie apocalypse? Money is then, nothing but a piece of paper that perhaps, you would use to wipe your hind after your toilet business. So again, what is money but something that the society has assigned value to?

Money, a pretty scary demon, as what most people would refer to it as. Capable of controlling the minds and lives of millions of people. I've read before, how humans today are pretty much like zombies of monetary values. I personally think, that it is rather true. How many people out there, that are actually alive, doing whatever they would like to do and yet not being binded to slavery of money? Fear of not being able to pay the bills on time or perhaps providing dinner on the table every single night? Again, it all comes back to what is money exactly? Something that is simply an abstract idea, yet as history has showed, powerful enough to cause war and deaths of many.

So how exactly do you view money, something so abstract that has ultimately no meaning but has been pinned a monetary value by the society who has taught us all to be materialistic growing up? I don't know, really, and I'm just like you, very much an enslaved zombie, here ranting about.

World Blogger & Social Media Summit 2011 Conference.

2011-06-17T19:12:00.000+08:00

Being rather new in this industry, my blog is only 6 months old, I'd say, this conference definitely opened me up in many ways that I never thought possible. Yes, working for Advertlets has given taught me about the basics of how the social media today works and how important it actually is today. But the technicality of blogging and how it actually can help me make money? I'm still pretty much green.

The event started out with an keynote address by Dato' Seri Utama Dr. Rais Yatim, our current respectable Minister of Information, Communication & Culture. He got the ball rolling with his flamboyant speech about the importance of Social Media today and how with it, we are all connected.

Prominent speakers like Jason Lo, CEO of Tune Talk Malaysia, Azran Osman-Rani CEO of Air Asia X, Terrence Fernandez Senior Editor of The Sun Daily were one of the highlights of the conference. They shared with all about how blogging can reach out to businessmen who are looking to increase their customer base, how social media is the "IT" thing to connect and to establish a good relation with their customers, the legal laws in blogging, and how important ROIs are in blogging. But the highlight of all, YA Bahagia Tun Dr Mahathir Mohamad coudn't make it at the last minute. A huge let down for all of us.

But nonetheless, Advertlets bloggers were up to share their experiences as a blogger and how they feel about blogging. Blogger Josh Lim, was up to share about his achievement as the Founder and CEO of Advertlets. Food blogger, Rebecca Saw talked about her passion for food and what led her ultimately into blogging. Jason Goh aka Smashpop.net, our tech/photographer blogger also talked about his success as a blogger for 8 years. Beauty queen, model, emcee, blogger, Bridgette Liberty Yu shared about how she find blogging helped her career advance further. Last but not least, the sweet, intelligent Crystal Cha aka KLChick shared how blogging helped her open up and not be shy though she was home schooled since she was young.

Here's some quick pictures of us at the World Blogger & Media Summit 2011!

Thats Mike Yip and me!

Advertlets Bloggers UP!

Blogger Jason Ong aka Mynjayz

Advertlets Bloggers who were speaking at the summit, with Advertlets staff & booth babes.

The lovely Advertlets booth babes.

Even the hashtag for the conference #bloggersummit got trended in twitter Malaysia! Amazing ain't it?

Makan-logue #3: Dim Sum @ Restaurant Yoke Fook Mun, Ipoh.

2011-06-13T16:23:00.005+08:00

Cho San! What is better than our Chinese traditional breakfast to start our day right? And being only about 30 minutes away from Ipoh, the land of superb delicious dim sums, me and my friends, couldn't resist having it every other week. So far, I've tried pretty much every dim sum shops in Ipoh, the famous ones that is. But I personally prefer this one, Yoke Fook Mun. They have a wide variety of dim sums and I would say, they are pretty creative with what they have. Why do I say so? Here's why:

You can choose from the aunties or uncles that carries the dishes around. Remember to try their Bird's Nest tart and this one below:

I'm sorry but I don't know the real name of it but I am just gonna describe it, ok? Sorry-lahh. I don't read Mandarin. So anyways, this is Ham with pork. This I really like. Its slightly sweet as it is covered with ketchup and the savoury smell of the Ham with pork, is just perfect for pork lovers. They too have the common dim sums that you can get from back here in KL, but I still think theirs is way better than the ones here. The prawns that they use for their "Ha Kau" and "Siu Mai" are really fresh.

What is dim sum without egg tart, no? Well for me, personally, I think their egg tart is slightly above average only. I've tasted much better egg tarts but I guess, its just me being fussy, cause most of my friends love em'.

Well, don't forget to try their "Siu Long Pau". For me, I still think that the ones by Dragon-I is so far the best, but this one is done pretty alright. The right amount of fragrant savoury-pork juice that burst right into your mouth with every bite, is simply heavenly.

Dim Sum Sushi with fried prawn! Okayy, I came up with that name. I told you I can't read mandarin. Anyways, I did warn you that they are creative, didn't I? And this one, not only is it creative, it tastes really good. It is always a must for me to order this whenever I'm there. With a little bit of sauce and this Dim Sum Sushi, tastes like Heaven on Earth. The sauce softens the fried prawn but not too much that the fried fresh prawns still maintains its crispy texture.

This one is named, "Lau Sar Pau". I'm not sure if its famous or not, but it definitely was my first time trying it. It is actually made of egg yolks and when you take your first bite, make sure to becareful of the overflowing egg custard. Its fragrant and creamy texture is perfect for egg lovers.

The pricing over here at Restaurant Yoke Fook Mun, Ipoh, ranges from RM 2.80-RM 6. With the right amount of portion per tray, I think it is really reasonably priced. Head on over to Yoke Fook Mun if you are looking for the best Dim Sum you'll ever have, cause I know for me, till now, nothing has come pass their standards yet. Oh, and great news for crazy Dim Sum lovers out there, you can also enjoy their delicious dim sums at night for dinner.

My take on Restaurant Yoke Fook Mun, Ipoh?
Ambience: 5/10
Food: 8/10
Price: 7/10

YOKE FOOK MOON RESTAURANT – HONG KONG DIM SUM
No 67-69, Jalan Leong Sin Nam,
30300 Ipoh, Perak,
Malaysia.
Telephone : 605-241 6589
Business hours : 6am-10am, 6.30pm-11pm.

It is along the same row with Foh San Dim Sum and opposite of Ming Court Dim Sum.