Time Off

Bangkok. Buddies and I along with loved ones were supposed to be there for a business congress. We chose Penang as an alternative thereby biding farewell to my $370 paid congress fee in case we get involved unnecessarily just because we choose to wear a wrong color a certain day.

Tiger Airways. First time on this budget airline. No complaints except that the bullet speed announcements over the air could be much clearer.

Gurney Hotel. Quite beyond our expectations given the price we pay. Four bedrooms in two reasonably large suites overlooking the sea is a luxury. The auto rental company played us out but we managed to secure a cheaper and better vehicle via the concierge -- a 14-seater van to move 10 of us around comfortably to and fro George Town, Batu Ferringi and other parts of town. God saved my knee from hurting further, at least for the trip.

Penang Hill. We took a 4x4 jeep up the steep slopes for scenic views and shots, and then a buggy drove us further up to check out the private bungalows that costs RM 4-5 billion. Very quaint.

小娘惹. The second day highlight is paying a visit to he Pinang Peranakan Mansion! Photos here and still adding...

Fat. My travel companions live to eat -- We ventured into the street stalls for char kway teow, asam laksa, curry noodle, ice kachang, chendol... Along the coast for seafood... Up the hill plantation for durian and other tropical fruits. Eating non-stop! Burps. I honestly don't enjoy the indulgence but only to be a sport. I miss my salads, really.

初恋红豆冰. We caught movies there for 6RM in our tees and shorts, woohoo! No super cold theatres. The malls are more or less the same so there's nothing much to shop for. We were so looking forward to tailor make our suits and shop till we drop in Bangkok. Oh well, next year perhaps.

Next stop. Macau and Hong Kong on Jet Star!

Pain

This is just another flair of my stubbornness. Knee pain and it actually takes a simple visit to my GP to fix it. I had to wait for a month.

Now on anti-inflammatory drugs and banned from walking literally. Ugh. Trouble is, tomorrow I'm flying to Penang and losta work awaits when I return. Not in the best of mood these recent weeks.

So pray for me.