The Answer to Malaysian Football

So, this time the Ballon d'Or Winner - Lionel Messi, from Argentina.

It is sad to see that the level of football in Malaysia has not been improving much.

We are not in the World Cup, let alone producing our very own Ballon d'Or winner.

Then when we made the headline news, it is all for the wrong reason.

Honestly I do not blame the players. It is the way football players were nurtured, the systems we had, political interference and so much more that resulted in where we are today.

But now, we have a new hope.

Recently, our very own Malaysian born player.

Who were never noticed.

Never made any headline news.

Overlook by the Harimau Malaya team.

Could be the next Messi from Malaysia.

Could be the answer for Malaysian football.

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So, call me maybe.

How to Unblock your Drainage in Two Simple Steps.

For those who stayed in a condominium may have came across this problem before.

 

Every shower room will come with a drainage. But over the years (especially woman), you may notice that the drainage will be blocked by hairs, tissue papers etc which caused the overflow and stench.

What would you do?

1. Call you boyfriend, assuming he can fix almost everything in the house.

2. Call the management office and complain.

3. Call the plumbers and fix the problem.

Well if you have me as your boyfriend/spouse, you may opt for option No.1.

My wife always assume that since I graduated with a Degree in Electrical & Electronic Engineering, I should be able to fix the broken light bulbs, repair a vacuum cleaner, fix a leaked hose etc etc.

Because there is a say going around on the internet.

Nobody trust an Engineer after all!

But as an engineer we are not born to fix everything. But we are taught to use our problem solving skill to good use.

After all three options above and nothing works, I seek for advice and came through this via a friend.

"Super Drain Opener".

As it name suggested, it claimed to be one of the finest chemical (or acid solution) that will remove the blockage in 15 minutes.

Price? A mere RM 19.00.

What you do with this solution is. (Note: As this is very acidic, keep it away from children).

1. Pour half of the solution into the drain. Leave it for 15 minutes.

2. Next, use a jet water hose to spray high velocity water into that drain.

But as an engineer, we don't always take chances.

We will test it.

If it is not working satisfactorily, try to put in the other half of the solution left into the drain.

And repeat step 1 to 2 all over again.

See?

I am an Engineer, and you could trust me.

Tin-der-daaa

If you keep looking at this icon for 10 seconds and still couldn't work out what it is, you could be born in the year of 1950s.

It is called Tinder, a location based dating apps which allows "matched" users to "hook" up.
It is simple to used, once registered, there will be tonnes of profile photos at your disposal.

Then, next step requires you to swipe right if you like a guy/girl or swipe left if you have no interest or think your parrot at your home looked better than him/her.

I swiped left on this one, I swear!

I knew the existence of Tinder like, for many months but never had a thought to download it until one day, a friend of mine (a girl) who had faced with so many failed relationship decided to kind of force me into it.

She said it was way more interesting than Facebook & Instagram combined!

So on one fine day, I decided to get it downloaded. (With a heavy heart).

After some gruesome hours swiping left and right on the apps, there were not a single match.

But being a macho guy with my ego and balls at stake, I decided to go ahead.

Another half and hour gone swiping left and right, finally, DING! I HAVE A MATCH!

And...

This is what I have got. (Something like this)

(Well your imagination is not my problem).

 

I think there is a difference between a man and woman on Tinder.

 

When come to hook up or casual "physical intimation", girls tend to get more attention than man.

 

But why it have to be you??? WHYYY???

 

 



 

 

@ Bali, Indonesia

Me and my wife decided that for my birthday celebration this year we will be going to Bali, an island off Indonesia.

This is the second time I have been to Bali.

As usual, I will try to make the post as informative as I can, including the photos and budgets so you guys can utilize this as a reference.

PLACE WE STAYED (ALAYA KUTA)

For the accommodation, we have chosen a hotel named Alaya Kuta. Situated in the centre of Kuta town, it is one of the known tourist destination with long stretches of white beaches, restaurants and bars etc.

And it is only 15 minutes (with traffic) away from the Ngurah Rai airport.

I received a birthday card from the hotel and also one small complimentary cake. (It is a small cake by the way, but who cares? It is the thought that count.

The room is really a bargain at approx. USD 60++ per night of stay. Plus, it is only 5 minutes walk away from a shopping mall (Lippo & Discovery malls), restaurants and bars. Quite convenient I must say.

And of course, if you fancy a night swim, there is a big pool on the ground floor next to the breakfast area.

But a dip in the pool after 8 bottles of Bintang Beer is not recommended...

TRANSPORTATION

As for transportation, there were a few to be considered. Now listen very carefully.

1. Taxi is the most convenient mode of transport, but could be one of the most expensive too. We tried the "Grab Car" apps on the phone, the difference? Eg. From airport to our hotel would cost Rp 100K in a normal taxi, but only Rp 28K via "Grab Car" application.

If you happened to have all the time in the world but travelling on a tight budget, i would suggest install the App.

2. For the dare devils, rent a bike for Rp 70K per day.

Along the way you will see many shops selling petrol for the bike in an absolute vodka bottle which will cost you about Rp 15K per bottle and probably a quarter of the tank filled.

I would strongly suggest, go to the nearest petrol station such as PERTAMINA, filled about Rp 10K and you will almost immediately get a full tank of petrol.  

But riding a bike under the hot sun and with the terrible traffic condition can be both risky and exhausting. We took our bike from Kuta all the way to Seminyak, and I have lost almost half of my body fluid due to the hot weather.

3. Travel in style and not worry about anything? You may contact some rental car that come with driver. Renting a car (Toyota Avanza) normally cost about Rp 300K, and to include a driver, add in another Rp 100k.

We had a nice driver who called Mr. Tattoo (Not his real name but insist we call him that) who is very accommodating and speak really good English. You may contact him via +628123972131 or email him at mrtattoo95@yahoo.com.

And yes, he really does have some great tattoos on his body.

PLACES WE WENT

Apart from the more conventional places like Tanah Lot and Uluwatu, there are a few more interesting places which I would say, is a must visit.

1. ROCK BAR @ AYANA RESORT & SPA BALI

http://www.bali-indonesia.com/magazine/rock-bar-bali.htm#

With the Indian ocean as the backdrop, you and your loved one could enjoy a nice evening drinks while enjoying the sunset view. The bar opened at 4pm, but I would suggest since it is always pack with tourist, go as early as 3.30pm to join the queue.

As you will need to be "descended" to the bar on the cliff on a special vehicle, a cabin car.

 



Whenever there is beer, I am a happy man.

It is not the cheapest place in the world, but for the sake of experiences, USD 30 is not too bad for two bottle of beers and some light snacks considering the posh environment you are getting.

2. KU DE TA BALI

Another place would be the Ku De Ta Bali. Located in Seminyak, this is one of the restaurant and bar situated just right off the shore of the beach.

I think I will never get enough of the tasty Bintang Beer!

And some "traditional selfies" on the beach.

3. SEAFOOD DINNER IN JIMBARAN

When you are in Bali, you should never miss the seafood dinner in Jimbaran. Located half an hour from Rock Bar, this is the place well known for having seafood dinner on the beach while admiring the sunset in the process.

And no, I am not talking about the Raja Bomoh here. (I swear).

I wouldn't say it is cheap to eat here, anyway, eating in Bali is never cheap.

The seafood restaurant we went is called the Lia Café. Their menu comprised the ala-carte price and also the so called "package price".

For about Rp 300k, you would be able to enjoy a nice dish for two person which comprises coconut water, fish, clamps, prawns, squid, vegetable and also rice.

Looks small in the picture, but we were struggling to finish it to be honest.

5. ULUWATU TEMPLE

For those of you who has done some research on Bali, you will never miss out on this place.

The entrance fee from 2012 is Rp 30,000 and you need to be properly dressed to enter. Sarongs and sashes are available free at the entrance.

The temple is inhabited by large number of monkeys, who are extremely adept at snatching visitors' belonging, including bags, cameras and eyeglasses.

Keep a very close grip on all your belongings and stow away your eyeglasses if at all possible. If you do have something taken, the monkeys can usually be induced to exchange it for some fruit.

My advice, if you have no patience negotiating with a human being, don't try with monkeys.

6. HARD ROCK BALI

As spiritual as it may seem, I have the tendency to take a photo of Hard Rock Café in every country that I have visited.

And yes, one of my ultimate life goal is to own something like Hard Rock Café in the future.

Ha.

7. SOURVENIER HUNTING IN KRISHNA BALI

If you are thinking of buying souvenirs in Bali, try to avoid places like shopping malls. Krishna Oleh Oleh Khas Bali is one of the place where you can purchase lots of local souvenirs with very affordable price.

This is the place recommended by our driver for the day, Mr. Tattoo.

Sometimes I think It is better to buy in this fixed price store than bargaining in Kuta or Legian tourist shop which is more expensive.

8. BEBEK GORENG & PORK RIB AT NAUGTHY NURI'S (AKA HOG WILD)

Five years ago, I missed out on the "Bebek"-Duck in Bali. So this time we went to a place called Naughty Nuri (Renamed as "Hog Wild").

Needless to say, it is a must try dish when you are in Bali.

Quite a special set up, dine in the garden.

But honestly, I have no idea what it meant by "Wild Women - Wednesday".

Maybe there is some "special service" offered on the other end? Side business perhaps? :P

9. NASI PADANG SEDERHANA

The first time I came across the "Nasi Padang" is when I visited Jakarta. Originated from Padang, West Sumatra, it is a very popular dishes among the local.

 

 

So, during one night when we running out of idea where to take our dinner, I suggested Nasi Padang instead. Initially my wife have this sceptical look on her face when I told her it is something like the "Mixed Rice" of Chinese.



 

 

But, she loves it. She was even surprised by how tasty the food were. And for you to know, you only pay for the dishes you eat.

 

The one you didn't touch, it doesn't count.

 

 

End of the day, the trip is a fulfilling one. I think mainly it is because we took it the "free and easy way".

 

But if you were to ask me what is the one thing I would bring back to Malaysia if I had the chance?

I would say, the hotel bed.

I slept like a baby for the 4 nights I was there.

All in all, (apart from air tickets and accommodation), for the two of us we have spent about USD 500++.

And we had fun.

So where's next?

Say hi to Bali for me the next time you guys are there!





 

Busan, Korea

 

 

 

 

This is my first time in Korea.

 

Before this trip, the closest I have ever came across to learn about Korea was from my wife's Korean drama series.

 

But what I saw and learnt about Korea in real life, is nothing short of overwhelming.

 

Especially their foods, like the Korean Barbeque.

 

 

 

I am not a big fan of Korean food before this.

 

For one, I have never understood why they need to make their chopstick from steel and make it so heavy to handle (Even for a Chinese guy like me).

 

Secondly, Why they tend to use so many plates for one simple course of dinner and etc etc.

 

And why don't they translate their dining menu into English?

 

Back to the food.

 

For the Korean Barbecue, it is a must try when you are here. I have ended up with the BBQ dinner almost for the whole week I am there.

 

And nothing beats grilled pork meat down with glasses of Soju (A Korean type of liquor) during a cold windy night.

 

 



 

 

My Korean friend told me that Soju is the best beverage to go with a grilled pork meat. If you are going for Beef, beer would be the best choice.

 

I would believe that everyone has their own preference.

 

If you asked me personally, I would go for the marinated type of grilled beef + Soju.

 

So after the dinner, I had a short walk around the night market to have a look.

 

 

This is where you will come across with lots of street foods and clothes for sale. Something like a mini version of Petaling Street in Malaysia.

 

But, the shops here have limited choices and I don't really speak Korean. (Although many people thought I am there people, and ended up speaking to me in Korean with me looking like a confused and drugged retarded man.

 

The place where I stayed is at Haeundae, a vey popular tourist spot as in beach side.

During the summer, people flocked to the beach for a short holiday get away.

 

 

There were no crowd during my stay over there, as the weather can be as low as 10 Deg C. I jokingly asked my friend if I would be able to have a chance to take a swim.

 

He told me he has no problem with it, but his only advise is "why trade a nice hotel room with a hospital bed?"

 

Not far from where I have stayed, there is a casino. Casino in Korea are only meant for foreigners only.

So, being a China man, I decided to go in.

Ended up with USD 100.oo losses under one hour playing black jack. Talk about a beginner's luck!

Another main attraction in Haundae Busan would be the Sealife Aquarium.

Here you will able to see closed to 3,500 marine species on display.

And also the divers on display.

 

 

Not sure how much they earned monthly, but hopefully with this kind of job they are entitled to exemption from paying income taxes.

 

 

Fancy for shark fin dinner?

As for avid shoppers, there is a big departmental store in Busan called Shinsengae.

This departmental store looked just like any others. But there are one difference though.

 

 

They held the Guinness World Record for the largest departmental store in the world.

 

I am not sure if it is the case still for today. But having a departmental store certified by the World Record of Guinness? It is something interesting.

 

I wished I could have written more about this trip, but as always, it is only a business trip. Forgive me for the brief introduction to this country.

 

But I will definitely come back again one day, as a "real" tourist. So I will be able to learn and appreciate more on the Korean way of living.

 

Maybe it is just about time to start watching Korean drama!

 

 

 

 



Sharing is Caring

You came across one nice song and wanted to download it as mp3, but you have no idea on how to do it?

Go to this link http://www.youtube-mp3.org/. Put in the URL of the video into the box, click "Convert Video", then click "Download".

It is that easy.

Good things are meant to be shared.


 

Theory Vs Reality on Globetrotting

I was back in UK again last month for couple of weeks.

Took this picture while having morning coffee outside the hotel. Sunny day!

People used to come up to me and said how much they envy my globetrotting lifestyle. You received lots of "Likes" on Facebook on your travel pictures, and people telling you how cool it would be for them to be able to do the same.

I wouldn't disagree.

Sometimes to be able to get our from your normal surroundings and explore some new places can be exciting, at first. But doing it over and over again may not be just what you think.

When you get to travel so frequent, everything would be like, autopilot. You just tend to know things like:

1. What is the Wi-Fi access code ain airport and places to avoid the network congestion.
 
2. Where is the nearest and largest smoking lounge available.

3. Which restaurant serve the best coffee that suits your taste buds. (Or offering smoking zone)

4. The exact seats that offered you more leg rooms on the plane.

5. There were no charging port on the aisle seat on a Boeing 777 old plane on "E" airlines.

6. You get free set of eye mask and ear plug from "E" airlines, while it is only available for business class in "K" airline.

7. There is no harm asking for a seat upgrade for free at times. It happened at times.

Last month, I set a personal record. I was away from home to three different countries (China, Indonesia and UK) all in the same month.

This is what people think in general.

Happy traveller!

But in reality, for 90% of the time in the 3 countries this was my itinerary:

1. Back from China, I have two days to do laundry and repack for Jakarta.

2. Back from Jakarta, I have two days to do laundry and repack for UK.

3. Stuck in a bad turbulence en route to UK without proper sleep for almost 13 hours.

4. Went into meeting, with jet lags and fever. Took a half day off work because I was just so ill.

5. Sick for two days, missed the Man Utd vs Aston Villa match 17 miles down the road due to illness and unable to secure ticket for the match. Stucked in hotel and went to ASDA (Tesco equivalent store) to shop for PAINKILLERS.

6. Hotel food alone in the room for whole 9 days. Occasionally dinner at the restaurant outside the hotel.

The only nice moment was on that sunny day, I am able to have a coffee early in the morning with the cooling breeze brushing my face without feeling ill.

Like I said, theoretically, it can be fun. But in reality?

Unless you are on vacation, that would be a different story all together.

If you think it is fun, think again.

Yes, I had a happy smile on me face when it is time to go home to my own home again.