Finally manage to have a break from work.. goin on leave from 29 Jun till 3 Jul.. Bring my Wife, daughter and nephew for a trip to Bangkok & Pattaya... My last time flying wz my wife was 5 years ago.. to Bangkok.. and for Leia and Marcus.. it is their first flight experience.. i'm sure they are unable to sleep the night before...
hahaha...
Stay tune..
Saturday, June 28, 2008
Friday, June 27, 2008
Cutting Cost of Living
The cost of living in Singapore is raising.. Recently the utility bill just increase.. Here are some of my ways to cut cost..
1. Switch off all electrical appliances socket if not using...
2. Use energy saving bulb or tube.
3. Only switch on the light in the room you are occupying..
4. Use a shallow basin for washing dishes, instead of washing dishes under running water.
5. While showering, turn off the tap when, applying soap.
6. Use soap instead of shower gel.
7. When storing food, divide them in to portions and place into small container.
8. Walk or cycle to and from MRT station to home (good exercise also).
9. Buy house brand when shopping for groceries.
10. Try not to spend over $5 per meal, if eating at hawker centers or food court. There are stil some stalls that sell food from S$2.00
11. Only dine at mid range restaruants on special occasion only.
12. Cook more portion for dinner so that can pack for lunch the next day.
13. Take cab only when really really neccessary. (leave home early..and be puncture)
14. Bring own bottle of water when going out (Can refill at water cooler).
15. If possible grow your own herbs (which my wife is try to do so).
16. When dine in Mc Donald, bring home extra packet chillies and ketchap (no need be ashamed de), some sugar and cream pack also...
17. Do not use credit card when shopping (unless got rebates).
18. Cut hair at QB or EC House (S$10 per cut), they are able to cut the latest style for you.
19. Keep hair short (use less shampoo)
Well the list goes.. but some might think i kiasu and some might think i kiasi... but when the cost of living is high, you got no choise but to tighted my belt... When surviving is at stake, what is lossing face?
1. Switch off all electrical appliances socket if not using...
2. Use energy saving bulb or tube.
3. Only switch on the light in the room you are occupying..
4. Use a shallow basin for washing dishes, instead of washing dishes under running water.
5. While showering, turn off the tap when, applying soap.
6. Use soap instead of shower gel.
7. When storing food, divide them in to portions and place into small container.
8. Walk or cycle to and from MRT station to home (good exercise also).
9. Buy house brand when shopping for groceries.
10. Try not to spend over $5 per meal, if eating at hawker centers or food court. There are stil some stalls that sell food from S$2.00
11. Only dine at mid range restaruants on special occasion only.
12. Cook more portion for dinner so that can pack for lunch the next day.
13. Take cab only when really really neccessary. (leave home early..and be puncture)
14. Bring own bottle of water when going out (Can refill at water cooler).
15. If possible grow your own herbs (which my wife is try to do so).
16. When dine in Mc Donald, bring home extra packet chillies and ketchap (no need be ashamed de), some sugar and cream pack also...
17. Do not use credit card when shopping (unless got rebates).
18. Cut hair at QB or EC House (S$10 per cut), they are able to cut the latest style for you.
19. Keep hair short (use less shampoo)
Well the list goes.. but some might think i kiasu and some might think i kiasi... but when the cost of living is high, you got no choise but to tighted my belt... When surviving is at stake, what is lossing face?
Wednesday, June 25, 2008
Singapore Police Security Blunders
Our Singapore Police Force.. recently has lots of blunders... At firsts it was the escape of Mas Salamat (That was a very serious blunder).. Then 2 crimminal almost manage to escape from subodinate court's detention cell (Lack of readiness)... Then recently, one man manage to travel out of Singapore with his son's passport (Real Blur Blunders)...
Singapore security was very well known in the world for being firmed, Readness, uncorrupted and vigilant... But now it is a laughing stock for the world to know that Singapore Police Force created sure silly blunders... How could our police force created such blunders..? Hahaha.... Maybe the new generation policeman is too lame... don't have much crime to solved.. Has been doing lots of reports on complaints (Singaporean loves to complaints), resolving neighbour's disputes, catching snakes etc.... Does all these community services create lame a police force? I hope not... I do agreed these lame policeman are just handful..
Like in the old army saying "You have a "sotong" soldier in your platoon, so does your enemy"... So in the police version "In every one stupid crimminal, there is also one silly policemen in a division" Hahahahaha.....
Singapore security was very well known in the world for being firmed, Readness, uncorrupted and vigilant... But now it is a laughing stock for the world to know that Singapore Police Force created sure silly blunders... How could our police force created such blunders..? Hahaha.... Maybe the new generation policeman is too lame... don't have much crime to solved.. Has been doing lots of reports on complaints (Singaporean loves to complaints), resolving neighbour's disputes, catching snakes etc.... Does all these community services create lame a police force? I hope not... I do agreed these lame policeman are just handful..
Like in the old army saying "You have a "sotong" soldier in your platoon, so does your enemy"... So in the police version "In every one stupid crimminal, there is also one silly policemen in a division" Hahahahaha.....
Tuesday, June 24, 2008
Macau Trip on 2 Feb 08
Here are some of the pics i took during my trip to Macau on 2 Feb 08.
This is my executive room at Star World Hotel.. I love the bathtub, can watch English Premier league, soccer match while soaking in the tub....
Macau has change a lot from my last visit few years ago... So many new Casinos and hotels.. Even everywhere seems more crowded with peoples... It was only a few days before Chinese Lunar New Year and so many people buying their new year goods.... I'm going to share with you some nice snacks in Macau...
All kinds of Bak Gua.. Got Spicy bak gua, Beef bak gua etc
The famous Portuguese Tarts. This best Portuguese is at Colone Island "Lord Stow's Bakery"...
Local Product "Peanut Candy". These are my favourites too.. comes in many favour.. like coconut, black sesame seed, original peanut etc....
See what i have found in Venetian's Food Court... Singapore local cusine...
Saturday, June 21, 2008
Airline operating cost....
For the estimate chart above.. the Fuel and oil make up, half the airline operating cost.. followed by the Crew Cost... The fuel & oil has already eaten into the profit.. that is why airlines have to up sell their services and inflight comfort.. for a long term business and survival... If the fuel keep increasing... and the airfare is getting higher.. more and more people will not travel.. and airlines might have to down size and cut out no for frequent flights.... worst to worst.. closed down...
Friday, June 20, 2008
Lau Pa Sa Crab Mixed Noodle
I just tried the Lau Pa Sa Crab Mixed Noodle at Chinatown Complex hawker center... Stall no #02-179... Everytime i pass by this stall i see a long queue.. but today the queue was short and i decided to give it a try..
The price range was S$3, S$4 & S$5.. i brought a bowl of S$4 one.. And i ask the stall helper for a recommendation adn was told to try the "Dry" version with chillies.. The noodle like those wan ton noodle.. and was a bit soggy with the sauce and chillies... Ingredients got Sliced Char Siew, 2 Shelled Prawns, Sliced Fish Cake, Shredded Crab Meat and with some deep fried shallots toppings... It looks delicious.. and not too salty.. The ingrediants all goes well together.. the prawn soup was wonderful.. rich and aromatic... and i suspect full of MSG... cos i got so thirsty are drinking the soup... But personally i think the crab meat will goes well with the prawn soup..
The price range was S$3, S$4 & S$5.. i brought a bowl of S$4 one.. And i ask the stall helper for a recommendation adn was told to try the "Dry" version with chillies.. The noodle like those wan ton noodle.. and was a bit soggy with the sauce and chillies... Ingredients got Sliced Char Siew, 2 Shelled Prawns, Sliced Fish Cake, Shredded Crab Meat and with some deep fried shallots toppings... It looks delicious.. and not too salty.. The ingrediants all goes well together.. the prawn soup was wonderful.. rich and aromatic... and i suspect full of MSG... cos i got so thirsty are drinking the soup... But personally i think the crab meat will goes well with the prawn soup..
Thursday, June 19, 2008
Guest being throw out of Hotel in Hong Kong....
Read this from Yahoo Hong Kong News....
http://hk.news.yahoo.com/080618/318/2vyh3.html
Be careful when you book your hotel through the internet.. You will never know if this hotel is in finiancial crisis.. or your voucher is not reconised by the hotel.. or worst still the hotel do not have your reservation... after you have booked and paid full via the (bogus) website...
My advice is to book through the travel agency, even if the price is a bit high.. Usually travel agency book hotel through local operators or directly deal with the hotel.. As Travel agency are the insider in travel, we will get the first-hand market talk about the suppliers (Hotels, Airlines & Land Operators). Travel agency DO NOT deal with suppliers that have lots of customers complaint or in a bad financial state... If a local operator or hotelier is not trustworthy, words will spread quickly among the travel agency staffs.. and everyone will black list this local operator or hotelier....
Of course many will argue that some travel agency are not trustworthy. There are some cases of "Hit & Run" Bogus travel agency in Singapore. They will start selling their packages and airticket at a very very unbelivable fare.. When the customers book and paid up fully.. these travel agency will take all the money and closed down.. then dissapeared....
So my next advice is to be careful when u compare prices.. if that particular travel agency qoute u at a unbelivable fare (30% - 50% more cheaper than the market selling fare).. Never let out your greed and book immediately.. Beaware.. This travel agency is preparing for a "hit & run"... I have seen many such cases before.. and all operate on the same "hit & run" mood...
http://hk.news.yahoo.com/080618/318/2vyh3.html
Be careful when you book your hotel through the internet.. You will never know if this hotel is in finiancial crisis.. or your voucher is not reconised by the hotel.. or worst still the hotel do not have your reservation... after you have booked and paid full via the (bogus) website...
My advice is to book through the travel agency, even if the price is a bit high.. Usually travel agency book hotel through local operators or directly deal with the hotel.. As Travel agency are the insider in travel, we will get the first-hand market talk about the suppliers (Hotels, Airlines & Land Operators). Travel agency DO NOT deal with suppliers that have lots of customers complaint or in a bad financial state... If a local operator or hotelier is not trustworthy, words will spread quickly among the travel agency staffs.. and everyone will black list this local operator or hotelier....
Of course many will argue that some travel agency are not trustworthy. There are some cases of "Hit & Run" Bogus travel agency in Singapore. They will start selling their packages and airticket at a very very unbelivable fare.. When the customers book and paid up fully.. these travel agency will take all the money and closed down.. then dissapeared....
So my next advice is to be careful when u compare prices.. if that particular travel agency qoute u at a unbelivable fare (30% - 50% more cheaper than the market selling fare).. Never let out your greed and book immediately.. Beaware.. This travel agency is preparing for a "hit & run"... I have seen many such cases before.. and all operate on the same "hit & run" mood...
SIA and SilkAir Fuel taxes Increase Again...
OOh my oooh my SIA and SilkAir increase fuel taxes again... According to SIA, fuel has increase to a record price of US$160 per barrel.. Well the rest fo the airlines will follow suit... Now more travellers are cutting down on their holiday and avoiding long haul trips... That means less sales for Travel Agency...
Wednesday, June 18, 2008
One more staff AWOL
Already lack of staff and today a new staff who only work for about 1 week goes AWOL today.. we have not choice but to cancel her work permit.. She has always been late for work... with lots of reason like " Oh, I have over slept" "Singapore Immigrant refuse me entry"....
Grade 1 Exam... Parent's Stress
I have been very very worried about my daughter's Piano Grade 1 Exam.. Her piano exam is around the corner.. and she is not practising hard enough.. Still very bad in sight reading.. i really don't want to end up forcing her to learn piano.. If that is the case i rather let her stop learning...
The reason for me letting her learn piano is because she said that she wanted to learn.. so we brought a piano for her.. and got a piano teacher to each her.. we was doing fine.. until recently she seems to loss interest in playing piano... Being a Kindergarden 2 girl.. she don't really understand grade 1 theory.. well she is too young for that and i told my wife to defer theory till she is primary one....
Anyway if she were to stop learning piano... then the piano will be for my leisure... to destress myself... i have never take piano lesson before..i self taught.. and i always play the piano when i fell stress or sad or happy... Playing piano is a therapy for me....
The reason for me letting her learn piano is because she said that she wanted to learn.. so we brought a piano for her.. and got a piano teacher to each her.. we was doing fine.. until recently she seems to loss interest in playing piano... Being a Kindergarden 2 girl.. she don't really understand grade 1 theory.. well she is too young for that and i told my wife to defer theory till she is primary one....
Anyway if she were to stop learning piano... then the piano will be for my leisure... to destress myself... i have never take piano lesson before..i self taught.. and i always play the piano when i fell stress or sad or happy... Playing piano is a therapy for me....
Tuesday, June 17, 2008
Job hopping...
Well... now is mid of the year.. and rasing cost of living has been keeping people thinking twice of leaving their job.. Many companys are also cutting down cost.. and in worst senario, retranched..
But youngsters nowsaday is still very optismistic about jobs.. they loves to job hop.. hopping to find a higher pay job with little responsibility.. i don't mean job hopping is no good.. but looking at the current situation, where cost of living is getting higher.. everyones hopes to find a better paid job..... But on the employer side of view.. many enployer are taking every measure to cut cost.. due to the higher operating cost.. do you think more employers are still offerring better pay or do you think they will retain their company asset??
Last month we got 2 staffs resigned, but manage to get 2 new staffs to replace them... But at the end of this month, we have 2 staffs resigned, 1 temp staff leaving and 1 staff on maternity leave... thus next month we are short of 4 more staffs adding to out crisis of staffs shortage... Next 2 months is suppose to be the low season of the year.. and there are also staffs who took leave, including me :o) ..... Those who work hard are not able to get a good rest during low season.. i really pity them.. but on the other hand my boss only planning to employ 1 more staff as her reason is "we do not need so many staffs during low season".. Another cost cutting move...
Me any my marketing colleague are getting tired of training new staffs.. as most staffs only stayed for 3 to 6 months.. It takes at least 1 month to train a new staff and another 1 month for the new staff to generate sales.. Many experience worker, prefer to tour lead, know what to expect (can take hardship) but stubborn in work attitude, wanting a higher pay...... and for the younger workers.. they are job hopping for a better career advancement... They are always not serious at their work.. and unable to take hardship.. Treat them a bit nicer and they will climb over your head..
Well how long must we have to deal with this staffs shortage problem....??
But youngsters nowsaday is still very optismistic about jobs.. they loves to job hop.. hopping to find a higher pay job with little responsibility.. i don't mean job hopping is no good.. but looking at the current situation, where cost of living is getting higher.. everyones hopes to find a better paid job..... But on the employer side of view.. many enployer are taking every measure to cut cost.. due to the higher operating cost.. do you think more employers are still offerring better pay or do you think they will retain their company asset??
Last month we got 2 staffs resigned, but manage to get 2 new staffs to replace them... But at the end of this month, we have 2 staffs resigned, 1 temp staff leaving and 1 staff on maternity leave... thus next month we are short of 4 more staffs adding to out crisis of staffs shortage... Next 2 months is suppose to be the low season of the year.. and there are also staffs who took leave, including me :o) ..... Those who work hard are not able to get a good rest during low season.. i really pity them.. but on the other hand my boss only planning to employ 1 more staff as her reason is "we do not need so many staffs during low season".. Another cost cutting move...
Me any my marketing colleague are getting tired of training new staffs.. as most staffs only stayed for 3 to 6 months.. It takes at least 1 month to train a new staff and another 1 month for the new staff to generate sales.. Many experience worker, prefer to tour lead, know what to expect (can take hardship) but stubborn in work attitude, wanting a higher pay...... and for the younger workers.. they are job hopping for a better career advancement... They are always not serious at their work.. and unable to take hardship.. Treat them a bit nicer and they will climb over your head..
Well how long must we have to deal with this staffs shortage problem....??
Monday, June 16, 2008
Great Singapore Sales
Reading from the Channel NewsAsia... Mastercards see a rise in sales for the first weekend of the Great Singapore Sales.. I think Singaporean are signing their life away during this Great Singapore Sales period...
Reason to spend:
It will be a great bargain during this period as everything is getting more and more expensive...
Effect after the Great Singapore Sales:
Prices of fuel, household items and foods will still increase... thus many Singaporean who made payment by credit card during the Great Singapore Sales will start to default their or delay their payment... Credit cards company will be smiling at the interest rates they earn.. but they do not have the last laugh as, people will declare bankrupt if they are unable to pay up...
I think the economy will go into a recession if everyone is not spending... Consumers is slowly tightening their belt... and many business will be closed because of the high operating cost... But to spend on credit cards.. you must be sure you are able to clear the sum spend.. If not as the economy goes into a recession it will be dom..
Reason to spend:
It will be a great bargain during this period as everything is getting more and more expensive...
Effect after the Great Singapore Sales:
Prices of fuel, household items and foods will still increase... thus many Singaporean who made payment by credit card during the Great Singapore Sales will start to default their or delay their payment... Credit cards company will be smiling at the interest rates they earn.. but they do not have the last laugh as, people will declare bankrupt if they are unable to pay up...
I think the economy will go into a recession if everyone is not spending... Consumers is slowly tightening their belt... and many business will be closed because of the high operating cost... But to spend on credit cards.. you must be sure you are able to clear the sum spend.. If not as the economy goes into a recession it will be dom..
Saturday, June 14, 2008
Is our boys too lame for National Service??
The newspapers has been writing about the death of 2 National Service boys...
Is the training too tough for them.. or is it they are unfit.. or is it the instructor did not take measured precaution....??? So many questions....
Well National Service's training comparing from my father's pioneer days to my NS days unitll present have changed a lot... My father was the pioneer batch of NS and they are trained by the Isrealis... He told me training is super tough as the Isrealis really "Tekan" then.. like throwing their boots out from the bunk, if their boot is not mirror shine... Their unifom is the Kaki green and required to crispy starch.. The uniform nmust be able to stand up straight after starch.. (imgine how much starch they have to ironed on...) Those were my father's days...
My time was still tough in the 90's.. The instructors were like king... punishment like standby bed.. change parade... morning 5BX.. 150 counts of star jump, 150 counts of push up , 150 counts of Jumping Jacks.... is like everyday routine... We do not have much nights off even during our operational period... (our nights off, ten fingers can count) We were "Tekan" till no time to think about stupid things like "commit suside".. at nigth we fell sound asleep immeadiately after "Lights Off"... Food is terrible.. Noodle like rubberband, soup like plain water, plain rice like whole grain.... And we have to bring own metal tray and mugs during meal time.. To make it worst.. we have to do chin up before every meals....
During my reservist period, we were observing those recruits training... Our head shake... their punishment was just only 20 counts of push up or sit ups... and they have more regular canteen break... Booked out on Friday night... Food catered my Singapore Food industry are served in proper plate and cups.. And their "Ali baba" Bag got Wheels...!!!
SAF have also cut down on the training after a few accident happen before... Youngster now play too much computer games, and they are no physically fit.. Just like my wife's nephew.. everyday laze at home... and play PSP.. never get up to do some physical activities... cyber games.. will make youngster "lame"..I don't think cyber game is "cool" at all.. During my youger days, i play soccer wz my friend almost everyday after school (that is why my result not good)... I was fit and lean....
The new generation of youngster.. i will call them... CYBER GEN....
Is the training too tough for them.. or is it they are unfit.. or is it the instructor did not take measured precaution....??? So many questions....
Well National Service's training comparing from my father's pioneer days to my NS days unitll present have changed a lot... My father was the pioneer batch of NS and they are trained by the Isrealis... He told me training is super tough as the Isrealis really "Tekan" then.. like throwing their boots out from the bunk, if their boot is not mirror shine... Their unifom is the Kaki green and required to crispy starch.. The uniform nmust be able to stand up straight after starch.. (imgine how much starch they have to ironed on...) Those were my father's days...
My time was still tough in the 90's.. The instructors were like king... punishment like standby bed.. change parade... morning 5BX.. 150 counts of star jump, 150 counts of push up , 150 counts of Jumping Jacks.... is like everyday routine... We do not have much nights off even during our operational period... (our nights off, ten fingers can count) We were "Tekan" till no time to think about stupid things like "commit suside".. at nigth we fell sound asleep immeadiately after "Lights Off"... Food is terrible.. Noodle like rubberband, soup like plain water, plain rice like whole grain.... And we have to bring own metal tray and mugs during meal time.. To make it worst.. we have to do chin up before every meals....
During my reservist period, we were observing those recruits training... Our head shake... their punishment was just only 20 counts of push up or sit ups... and they have more regular canteen break... Booked out on Friday night... Food catered my Singapore Food industry are served in proper plate and cups.. And their "Ali baba" Bag got Wheels...!!!
SAF have also cut down on the training after a few accident happen before... Youngster now play too much computer games, and they are no physically fit.. Just like my wife's nephew.. everyday laze at home... and play PSP.. never get up to do some physical activities... cyber games.. will make youngster "lame"..I don't think cyber game is "cool" at all.. During my youger days, i play soccer wz my friend almost everyday after school (that is why my result not good)... I was fit and lean....
The new generation of youngster.. i will call them... CYBER GEN....
Friday, June 13, 2008
Protest on Fuel Hike
Recently there news of countries that their govnerment is implimenting fuel price increase... And their people are staging mass protest and strikes for the fuel hike... Eg. Malaysia, Indonesia, Thailand, Philippines, France, Spain, Portugal.. etc.... Fishermen buring their boats, truck driver block roads, demonstration outside government buildings....
I do understand that people protest fuel hike because they have to pay for a higher fuel price and it increase their expenses... But on the other hand the govnerment can no longer subsidise the increase fuel price... Years ago the fuel cost and avergae of US$40 a barrel but no wit is at an average US$140 a barrel... How long can the government subsidise if the fuel price keep increasing? Many countries do not have a good public transport system and many of their citizen depend too much on their own vehicle for transportation (some really have no choice).... Unlike countries which have a good public transport infastructure... where their people could leave their cars aside and take the public transport...
This is like a "Chicken & Egg" problem...
What the govnerment could do is to cushion the impact of the fuel price, little by little... Encourage people to work from home or near their home.. Do energy saving campaigne... Increase and improve public transport system (might be a bit too late, but for the future it is advisable, Some countries are too big and it takes time)... Encourage car pooling... upgrade cars that use bio-fuel... Encourage people to cycle (good for health)...
Everyone must accept that the raising fuel price have change our life... and must adapt to life without fuel... Someday fuel will be used up and we will be living with an alternative source like solar power, neuclear power, micro power, fusion power, hydro power....
I do understand that people protest fuel hike because they have to pay for a higher fuel price and it increase their expenses... But on the other hand the govnerment can no longer subsidise the increase fuel price... Years ago the fuel cost and avergae of US$40 a barrel but no wit is at an average US$140 a barrel... How long can the government subsidise if the fuel price keep increasing? Many countries do not have a good public transport system and many of their citizen depend too much on their own vehicle for transportation (some really have no choice).... Unlike countries which have a good public transport infastructure... where their people could leave their cars aside and take the public transport...
This is like a "Chicken & Egg" problem...
What the govnerment could do is to cushion the impact of the fuel price, little by little... Encourage people to work from home or near their home.. Do energy saving campaigne... Increase and improve public transport system (might be a bit too late, but for the future it is advisable, Some countries are too big and it takes time)... Encourage car pooling... upgrade cars that use bio-fuel... Encourage people to cycle (good for health)...
Everyone must accept that the raising fuel price have change our life... and must adapt to life without fuel... Someday fuel will be used up and we will be living with an alternative source like solar power, neuclear power, micro power, fusion power, hydro power....
Tuesday, June 10, 2008
Kung Fu Panda
Kung Fu Panda... a very funny amination movie... The story is about a Panda name Po.. who dream of Kung Fu, but was a fat, lazy and clumsy... Accidentally he was being choosen by Master Wu Gui (Tortise) as the Legendary Dragon Warrior... to fight the evil guy "Tai Lung".. Po is the chossen one to retrive the Dragon Scroll (the dragon scroll is believe to be the secret to the highest kung fu levell).. The kung fu master trained Po, using food to motivate him.. till he was ready to fight Tai Lung...
The evil Tai Lung escape from the jail and wanted the dragon scroll so that he can attained the highest fung fu level.. The great five warriors (Tiger, Mantis, Snake, Monkey and Crane) tried to stop Tai Lung but was no match for him.. Only Po manage to defeat Tai Lung (as he is the choosen dragon warrior).. Till the end of the fight.. Tai Lung realised that the dragon scroll was empty... And Po explain to Tai Lung that there is no secret reciepe....
Lesson learn from the moive... There is no secret reciepe to success.. it is your own believe and hardwork... to make yourself succeed...
The evil Tai Lung escape from the jail and wanted the dragon scroll so that he can attained the highest fung fu level.. The great five warriors (Tiger, Mantis, Snake, Monkey and Crane) tried to stop Tai Lung but was no match for him.. Only Po manage to defeat Tai Lung (as he is the choosen dragon warrior).. Till the end of the fight.. Tai Lung realised that the dragon scroll was empty... And Po explain to Tai Lung that there is no secret reciepe....
Lesson learn from the moive... There is no secret reciepe to success.. it is your own believe and hardwork... to make yourself succeed...
Sunday, June 8, 2008
Dragon Boat Festival
Today is "Duan Wu" Festival, also known as Dragon Boat Festival... This festival is to commemorate the death of Poet Qu Yuan, who commited suicide by drowning himself in Miluo River. He was a high officer before being excile by the corrupted king. To show his love for his country he commited suicide. People throw rice dumplings into the river so that the fishes don't eat Qu Yuan's body... That is how the rice dumpling was originated... People also paddle boat to scared the fishes away hoping they could find Qu Yuan's body.. thus the origin for Dragon Boat race...
Everywhere is selling rice dumpling.. all kinds of different rice dumpling with different fillings.. There are Nonya Dumplings, Cantonese Dumplings, Hokkien Salted Dumplings, Peanuts Dumplings, Teochew Dumplings, Red Bean Dumplings, Premium Dumplings... etc....
Everywhere is selling rice dumpling.. all kinds of different rice dumpling with different fillings.. There are Nonya Dumplings, Cantonese Dumplings, Hokkien Salted Dumplings, Peanuts Dumplings, Teochew Dumplings, Red Bean Dumplings, Premium Dumplings... etc....
Saturday, June 7, 2008
Ming Shan Mutton Soup
OK back to my topic... of Food... I had mixed mutton soup with rice for lunch at Chinatown hawker centre... The popular "Ming Shan Mutton Soup" at Chinatown Hawker center is still as good as before.. The mutton is very tender and melts in your mouth.. mostly because the soup was boiled with ginger to get rid for the foul smell of mutton... Ginger keeps meat tender.. which i used it for marinate chicken.. squeeze some ginger juice into chicken while marinating.. It will be very very tender and tasty.. The mutton soup was so tasty (i buttoms up the whole bowl of soup) and the mutton ball is a bit chewy.. I really enjoys it... But its chillies is too spicy.. one dip and the spicyness takes away the taste of the mutton....
Then after i had my lunch i walk pass "Hong Kong Timsum" stall.. There was a long queue at this famous Timsum stall... Each small steam basket of timsum cost only $1.80...
Then after i had my lunch i walk pass "Hong Kong Timsum" stall.. There was a long queue at this famous Timsum stall... Each small steam basket of timsum cost only $1.80...
Friday, June 6, 2008
A "Bitch" Customer
Happen to serve 2 lady customers who ask about Japan tour.. They wanted to go to Tokyo, Osaka and Kyshu tour... So i recommended the Tour package that covers all these places. But they told me that they wanted to explore on their own pace.. So i have to give then flight & stay in Tokyo.. One of them were asking so much question.. as in "I want a hotel where there are train station, shops and subway near by..", "How many stars hotel do you have?", "I wanted to go places that tour package don't cover." She asked so much question.. Well i manage to reply everyone of her question politely.. She did not get into my nerve..
Then the funny part was.. when she got up and turn her back around to leave.. On the back of her T-Shirt wrote "BITCH".. Me and one of my colleague saw... and burst into laughter.... after the customer had left... Hahahaha.....
Then the funny part was.. when she got up and turn her back around to leave.. On the back of her T-Shirt wrote "BITCH".. Me and one of my colleague saw... and burst into laughter.... after the customer had left... Hahahaha.....
Thursday, June 5, 2008
Diesel Fuel Levy
I just realised that "Australia Pinnacle Tours" APT, in Perth has implement the Diesel Fuel Levy as of 1 June 08... The reason is due to sudden and unforseen increase in the cost of diesel fuel.. A Diesel Fuel Levy of AUS$5 per passenger per day tour.. (to be collect directly from the passengers by the APT's representative)
Now not only the airline are charging for the fuel surcharge, even land tour operator are feeling the pinch of the soaring fuel price... Express bus operators like Transtar Travel is charging passenger Fuel and insurance tax of $3 for one way and $5 for return Coach Ticket... I was wondering will the hotel start charging electricity and water surcharge to guest... Hopefully not..
The soaring fuel price has increase our cost of living, especially transportation. We are too depend on fuel and if this still carry on... It might lead to financial depression... The whole world is moving into a new revolution where we should make do without fuel (this day will come as now is the beginning of the turning point)... look for other fuel alternative... Over the years, scientists all over the world are working very hard to find alternative to replace fuel, that will eventually run out one day...
Now not only the airline are charging for the fuel surcharge, even land tour operator are feeling the pinch of the soaring fuel price... Express bus operators like Transtar Travel is charging passenger Fuel and insurance tax of $3 for one way and $5 for return Coach Ticket... I was wondering will the hotel start charging electricity and water surcharge to guest... Hopefully not..
The soaring fuel price has increase our cost of living, especially transportation. We are too depend on fuel and if this still carry on... It might lead to financial depression... The whole world is moving into a new revolution where we should make do without fuel (this day will come as now is the beginning of the turning point)... look for other fuel alternative... Over the years, scientists all over the world are working very hard to find alternative to replace fuel, that will eventually run out one day...
Wednesday, June 4, 2008
Budget Airline "Recession"
i just read from http://www.xin.sg/article.php?article=19400&category=78 .... Pricing for future budget will also depend on the traveller's weight... If they are over certain weight, budget airline will charge them upon check-in.. So imagine passengers who fly budget airline, not only queue to weight and check-in their luggage, but they also queue to weight thenself.. Haha.. In future those who are over weight and obese.. you may not want to consider flying with budget airlines... Those who are slightly over weight (like me), have to go on diet and cut down weight 1 month before your flight... Then during the trip you also must not indulge on food too much because it will still affect your weight for your flight home... Good luck for Moses Lim (food critic)...
Budget Airline are taking all measure to survive the soaring fuel price... Analysts said fuel being the main cost of budget airline will be hit the hardest, if it keep on increasing... This is likely to start a budget travel 'recession'.
Budget Airline are taking all measure to survive the soaring fuel price... Analysts said fuel being the main cost of budget airline will be hit the hardest, if it keep on increasing... This is likely to start a budget travel 'recession'.
Sunday, June 1, 2008
E-Ticketing (Paper Ticket is Histroy)
From 1 June 08, all airlines will be using E-Ticketing.. 100%.. and Paper ticket has become a historical items.. Those who are still holding to their last copy of paper tickets, keep it.. for historical value... WHo knows..? It night fetch a great price..at auction many many years later..??
Let me summerise the history of Airticket.
dated back from 1920: Different airline issue different air tickets..
1930: First standard Hand-Written Air Ticket.
1972: Introduce of IATA Billing and Settlement Plan (BSP). First IATA neutral paper ticket.
1983: Magnetic stripe on the back of Air Ticket. Can be use as Boarding Pass.
1994: First E-Ticket was issued.
1997: IATA had adopted global standards for e-ticketing.
2004: Annual General Meeting in Singapore. Target 100% E-Ticketing by 2008.
2008: All airline switch to E-Ticket... (A New Revolution)
Because of high Fuel Price (up to US$140 per barrel), E-Ticket is a very wise move for all airline to cut cost. A paper ticket costs an average of US$1, and an electronic ticket costs US$1. With over 400 million tickets issued through IATA’s settlement systems annually, the industry will save over US$3 billion each year. It also saves 5 Millions trees per year.. thus also save the enviroment..
Now passengers can travel easier with an E-Ticket and not to worry about lost tickets. ETs can be faxed or email to passengers... It also cut time on sending Air Ticket from airline or issuing agaent to travel agents or passengers... Some airline even allows check in online or via mobile phone.
So don't be surprise when Travel Agent or Airline just give you a piece of A4 size paper as your air ticket....
Let me summerise the history of Airticket.
dated back from 1920: Different airline issue different air tickets..
1930: First standard Hand-Written Air Ticket.
1972: Introduce of IATA Billing and Settlement Plan (BSP). First IATA neutral paper ticket.
1983: Magnetic stripe on the back of Air Ticket. Can be use as Boarding Pass.
1994: First E-Ticket was issued.
1997: IATA had adopted global standards for e-ticketing.
2004: Annual General Meeting in Singapore. Target 100% E-Ticketing by 2008.
2008: All airline switch to E-Ticket... (A New Revolution)
Because of high Fuel Price (up to US$140 per barrel), E-Ticket is a very wise move for all airline to cut cost. A paper ticket costs an average of US$1, and an electronic ticket costs US$1. With over 400 million tickets issued through IATA’s settlement systems annually, the industry will save over US$3 billion each year. It also saves 5 Millions trees per year.. thus also save the enviroment..
Now passengers can travel easier with an E-Ticket and not to worry about lost tickets. ETs can be faxed or email to passengers... It also cut time on sending Air Ticket from airline or issuing agaent to travel agents or passengers... Some airline even allows check in online or via mobile phone.
So don't be surprise when Travel Agent or Airline just give you a piece of A4 size paper as your air ticket....
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