Happy Ending

Today is the last day of 2007 and it sort of ended well for me.

Was having lunch with colleagues today and bumped into someone very close to my heart! It was really unexpected! I have always hope to meet that someone and it's like a prayer being answered! Really brightened up the day!

Take care, my dear friend! Wishing you good health, lots of wealth and heaps of love for 2008!

--------- Sawbear Travel ---------

Mixed Feeling.

Last night, I got to know 2 of my dear friends have agreed to go 'separate ways'. Though this news did not come to me as a surprise, it still saddened to know about it. This couple has been very close to me and I am really sad that they have decided to end the relationship. Having said that, I was glad to see that they are willing to settle this matter finally. Much as I do not wish to see they break up, I also do not wish to see them unhappy in the relationship. I certainly hope they can each move on in their lives and not forgetting the special bond they had with each other. I hope they could continue to be best of friends, supporting each other.

Most of all, I want them to know that they are very dear to me and I will continue to be there for both for them.

-------------- Sawbear Travel -------------

Pot Luck

Having pot luck something this afternoon.... Too late for lunch and too early for dinner... High Tea! That's it! Hahahahaha!

Ex colleagues catching for gathering..... at Pauline's place. Still have no idea what to bring.... will decide there and then.... hahahahaha!

Will be having gift exchange...... and presents for everyone......


--------- Sawbear Travel ---------

Thank you.

Had a very long chat on msn with a dear friend.....1st time..... Glad to be able to do that. Talked about many things, cracked a lot of silly jokes...

Thank you......


------ Sawbear Travel -------

Small World

Was chatting on msn with a new friend from Malaysia. During the chat, realised that I probably know his brother and also his friends in Malacca! Really a small world!

----------- Sawbear Travel ------------

Boxing Day

Had lunch with the good friend from Malaysia. Glad that he could make it. Hope you enjoyed the lunch and also my company!

caught up with old friends for dinner - Wong, Tony, Gerald, Albert and Jerry. Some of them would be travelling to overseas for the countdown! Some of us would be left here...... Well, it will be a great countdown! Hahahahahaha! Safe and enjoyable trip, my friends!


---------- Sawbear Travel --------------

Family Christmas Dinner

Went to 2nd brother's home. Pot Luck Dinner. Braised Pork with bun.

Every year we complain that there' s a lot of food left... so this year, we cut down.... and then when we put all the food on the table, we worried that there's not enough! Hahahaha! Thankfully, there's enough with some leftover!

We had curry, fried chicken wing, special jade noodle, fried bee hoon, braised pork with bun, some kuehs, vege, chipolata, ...... quite a spread!

Also celebrated my mum's birthday. Had a birthday cake for her!

Then it was time to give out presents! Gifts for nieces n nephews, my sisters-in-law, my mum and the maids. Of course, also got presents from my sisters-in-law! Then, it was gift exchange. Mark did not bring and so had to take out S$50! Threw dice and the gift was some containers. I was thinking of buying those containers earlier! Wow, no need to buy anymore!

Had a wonderful evening with the family!

-------------- Sawbear Travel -----------

Christmas

It's Christmas Day!

To some, it's a happy holiday; to others, it a time to be thankful and forgiving.

Having family dinner tonight. Pot luck dinner. I will be cooking braised pork with bun. Yes, I am keeping my fingers crossed! Hahahahaha! There will be gift exchange and also presents for all my nieces and nephews. To me..it's the most expensive time of the year. What to do! It's Christmas!


--------- Sawbear Travel ---------

Move on, my friend...

A dear friend has a relationship problem and I am concerned.

A relationship is a commitment between 2 people. If it has become a one way relationship, then it may not be worth maintaining it. I always believe that the more you love someone, the more you need to learn to let go. If you truly loves a person, you would want that person to be happy. If that person is not happy, where's the love?

If you want to possess that person, is there love anymore? Yes, it may be sad to let go of someone you love. But, being together is not bringing happiness to both, why force it?

You may have put in a lot of sacrifices in the relationship. If that person cannot appreciates the effort, is there a point to continue? Why continue in a relationship where both has to put up with each other and there's no happiness?

Grow up and move on! If that person cannot appreciate the relationship and the sacrifices you made, that person is not worthy of your love (no matter how much you love that person). Cherish the love in your heart and move on. I am sure there will be someone out there who will appreciate the commitment you put into a relationship.

Of course, the decision is yours to make. You know what is right. Please move on! It's better for you, for that person and also for people (like me!) who are concerned for you!

----------- Sawbear Travel --------------

Problem...

Few days ago, my boss called us in to attend a feedback session from someone who booked a tour from us. The customer was a close friend of his and also a colleague (high level) from another business unit.

She went to Australia with her family and the trip was not 'smooth'. 1st, she checked in to an apartment and found that there was no porter service. They had to lug the bags to the rooms. Also, she found out that there was no daily service, If she needs, she will have to pay. She was pretty upset. Well, she put up at that apartment for few days.

When she moved to another city, the apartment she stayed was terrible (she claimed). Since it was only 1 night, she put up with it. Then, the worst come.... they missed a morning transfer to an island and the next transfer was 7 hours later! She was fuming mad! She insisted she was at the meeting place early but the transfer missed them. The transfer company claimed that they will looking for them and they were not there! We did a good recovery by getting our agent to dispatch a vehicle to drive her around till the afternoon transfer and on the island, they were very well treated.

What went wrong?

Well...to me...if she has communicated her request properly to the staff, she would not have problem with her apartments. She assumed all apartments were serviced apartments. I have done apartments for many years and no one complained.
The missed transfer was unfortunate. It is not really anyone's fault. The transfer company cannot wait too long because they have other customers on board and they have a ferry to catch. Nobody knows how they could be missed but at least a recovery was done (at extra cost to us).

The funny thing was the reservation and the operations did not go through me... and I do not handle complaint. But, I was asked to look into this! Well, at least it was all sorted out!


------------- Sawbear Travel -------------

Friend from Malaysia

Went to meet up with a friend, a good friend, who arrived from Malaysia. Though it was just a brief chat, was glad to see him again! The last few trips to Malaysia did not have time to meet.

Certainly hope to catch up before he leaves. Have fixed a date to meet up, though. Will see how it goes. Bought him a Christmas present. Hope he like it.

---------- Sawbear Travel ------------

Resolutions for 2008

Usually before the new year begins, I would sit down and look back at what I have achieved and tell myself what needed to be done and improved and then set my resolutions for the new year.

When I looked back, I realised that 2007 has been a dramatic year for me! Met someone who has a great impact on my life and also a career change after so many years!

I have always been a blessed person and I thank God for that! Though I also have my fair share of 'misfortunes', they are nothing compare to what others are having.

2008 will be a very challenging year as far as my job is concerned and I am going head on to face the challenges.

What are my resolutions for 2008? Well.........

Have you made your resolution for 2008?

------------- Sawbear Travel -----------

Christmas Wishes

Christmas is just around the corner.... have you made your list of wishes yet?

For some of us, it's nothing special.... what about you?


-------- Sawbear Travel -------

Donut

A friend loves donut, especially Coco loco. But, we do not have this in Singapore yet! J.CO is very popular is KL and there's many outlets in Indonesia! KK seems to be a better brand of donuts than J.CO but they are both not found here! The good news is .....J.CO will be opening an outlet in Singapore.....

Read online on comments about the donut shops in Singapore.... Not very good comments! Hahahahaha!

Well, I am not a donut person...too sweet for me...

-------- Sawbear Travel --------

Looking Forward

A good friend would be coming here this weekend for holiday. Certainly hope to be able to catch up for meal. He would probably have a busy schedule but hope to be able to fit in....... need to take queue number to give someone a treat....hahahaha!





---------- sawbear Travel --------

Baby's Full Month

Attended Johnson's baby's full month lunch today... The venue was at CSC at Bukit Batok Central but I went to CDANS at Bukit Gombak!

Thought it was a buffet lunch but turned out to be 7 - 8 course Chinese lunch! So much to eat!

Johnson is from China...but is now a Singapore Citizen. He used to stay in the same block as me. We became very close friends and I often meet up with him and his wife, Lauren. Since they moved to Bukit Gombak, we hardly meet up ..... Still, we do keep in touch with each other.

Glad to see him and his family again!

------------ Sawbear Travel -------------

Etihad Airways

Went to airport today....to understand the catering operations of Etihad and to see the aircraft. Wasted a lot of time changing security pass. The tour was interesting. Got to see how the food was being prepared. Had the opportunity to taste business class food - well..the verdict is.... remind me NEVER to take Etihad's Business Class! Hahahahaha!

The aircraft tour was good. The business class seats were good...economy class was not bad as well.

---------- Sawbear Travel -----------

Back from Cruise

(Messy room)

Back from cruise!

Went on board the Rhapsody of the Seas on Monday. The weather was bad...heavy downpour. Though the check in was at The Cruise Terminal , WTC, we were ferried to Pasir Panjang Cargo Terminal because the ship was too huge and cannot berth at WTC.

Though the check in started at about 12 noon, the ship started sailing only after 8pm! Check in was rather slow and room were not ready. Went to the Windjammer Restaurant for lunch.... which was OK.

The cabin was OK... had a deluxe stateroom with a window.... Room was larger than the one at Virgo (SC). Rather cosy.

Gathered for a tour of the ship and then we had the muster drill which was compulsory for everyone.

Dinner was at the main dining room and we had the 1st seating at 6pm. Dinner was set menu (so so) and then there was entertainment show at 8pm. Duty free shopping and casino started later. Strange that athe shops only opened from 10pm to 12midnight....many would be asleep by then, if they are not at the casino! There were also karaoke and disco...

We arrived Port Klang about 8am. Had to attend a Product Presentation on Royal Caribbean Cruises. Many travel agents from all over Asia were invited on board the cruise. The Malaysian agents came to Singapore to board the cruise to Malaysia and back to Singapore and then catch the coach back to Malaysia! Crazy, right???!!!!!!

Took the shore excursion (US$30) ... went to KL city. .. about 1 hour from Port Klang. Had a few hours to look around. Visited Pavilion, a huge shopping Mall opp Starhill. There's Food Republic in the basement....roaring business!

Arrive this morning into Singapore. Clearance was rather messy.... and took a long while before some of us managed to get off the ship.

Overall experience.... may not really be suitable for the local market.... cannot imagine taking the same kind of breakfast every morning.... A friend went on the Alaska / Europe cruise with (RCCL) and she said it was really enjoyable..very different from this.

3D2N could still be OK... but drinks on board were not cheap..in US$ and some activities were not free....Pilate's classes, spa, massage, etc....

Really have to be affordable to go on board...... not for me YET! Hahahaha!

------------ Sawbear Travel --------------

Rhapsody of the Seas

Going on a cruise today, on board the Royal Caribbean Cruise - Rhapsody of the Seas! It's a 3D2N trip, sailing to Port Klang and back. Mind you..it's not a holiday...

Will tell you more when I get back.....

------- Sawbear Travel ---------

Desserts...

Cooked Japanese jellies and baked kiwifruit muffins for my family. It has been a while since I last made the effort. Had to refer to my recipe book.....how much flour.....oil.....milk..... wow...it has been THAT LONG!!!!!! Hahahahaha!

------- Sawbear Travel ------

Busy Morning...

Just finished computing the package prices for the other set of HKG rates. Hope I do not confuse my colleagues selling the packages... Same hotel but different selling prices for different promotion but flying on the same carrier! Confused???!!!!!! Hahahahahaha!

Also finished with the promotion for the web, finally!Had to get approval on the layout from the suppliers...kept changing ...driving my IT guy crazy! Hahahahaha! Everything is fine now and on track...

Going on the cruise - Rhapsody of the Seas on Monday for 2 nights...

------- sawbear Travel -------

Busy Day...

Really busy today...... Spent most of the time tabulating the rate for Hong Kong. This is one country where there are many different rates due to the many trade fair/exhibitions throughout the whole year!

After finally finished with all the rates, the Hong Kong operator told me that there's another set of rates for another promotion coming in!!!!!! Gosh! Really driving me crazy!


-------- Sawbear Travel ------------

Chain Mail / SMS

Have been receiving chain mails and sms from friends......

I do not believe in this stuff and I do not pass it around or send back to the person who sent to me. No offence....

------ Sawbear Travel ------

Otanjyobi Omedeto......

It's Francis' and Toyoda's Birthday! Happy Birthday, guys!

Francis is a dear friend I met around 1984 - 6 (getting old..cannot really remember!) at a youth exchange programme (ROTARACT) where he was the translator for the group from Japan. He hosted me when I visited Japan in 1987 and since then till today, I have visited and stayed with him and his wife, Keiko., manytimes! They run a Chinese restaurant in Chinatown, Yokohama.

Toyoda is a good friend and I have known him almost the same time as Francis! Toyoda was also a member of ROTARACT (Osaka). His father, Dr Toyoda, was very good to me. My last few trips to Osaka, I managed to meet up with Toyoda and some other friends. Though we hardly keep in touch, I still remember him and the fun days we had during those exchange programmes!

------------ Sawbear Travel --------------

Really Grateful 1......

Saw the E-tickets on my table..... my ops lady stayed back to issue all the tickets for me. She has to ensure no one would be issuing any ticket before she could do any issuance as all her tickets have to be in running numbers. So grateful to her.... must buy her lunch....


-------- Sawbear Travel -------------

Really Grateful....

I really have to be Grateful....I am! Hahahahaha!

Was talking to my colleagues about the fuel increase and realised that the increase for Taipei was about S$80 w.e.f tomorrow and I have a group leaving at the end of the month! If I issue the tickets today, I would save the customer S$80 per person! Then, I had problem with the issuance as it's already end of the day and the airline may not have anyone to assist. Tried calling many people but no one answered the call. Finally, another colleague from another department managed to talk to 1 sales person who agreed to assist! It's really unbelievable! I was told that usually it's not possible! Wow!

Moral of the story : be nice to your colleagues... you may need the their help one day! Hahahahaha!

----------- Sawbear Travel ------------

Last Month of the Year....

Time really flies! It's already December, the last month of the year! This is my 5th month in the Company! Still under probation! Hahahahaha!

There's a lot of projects coming up.... a lot to handle within the next few months...

----------- Sawbear Travel ---------------

Still Got It....

My brother and family came back from the Japan Trip. My niece enjoyed herself very much! They visited Disneyland, Universal Studio, SanrioLand, Hakone, aquarium. etc... It's a great relief for me! Why? Well, I planned the trip and my last trip to Japan was in 2002! A lot of the information given to my brother was from the Internet!

Happy to know that still got it in me....not the knowledge...but the know-how...


--------- Sawbear Travel ---------

Birthday Season.....

1st of December is another important day! 2 friends' birthday!

Happy Birthday, Franco! A good friend from Hong Kong.... met him in Hong Kong in 1999. I remember once he brought me to buy the Garfield mooncake at Kimberley Road...brought back a lot of mooncakes that trip...not for myself though..

Happy Birthday, Alvin! A dear friend since .... hmm... I cannot remember when.... hahahahaha! Once a blue moon we will catch up though..... a dear friend...close to heart! Always!


----------- Sawbear Travel ---------

Getting Old....

In my previous job, even at the end of the day, I was usually still rather 'alert'... but lately , I found myself dozing off all the time on the way home after work, on the bus! Honestly, by late afternoon.... I am almost 'drained' ! I am really getting old..... not as energetic as before! Some of my friends have started calling me 'Uncle'! Haiz......

Much as I like and enjoy the job, I am really not getting any younger.... have to watch my health..... even if I want to enjoy my life, must make sure I have the health to do so ......


------------ Sawbear Travel ------------

And More Birthdays...

Happy Birthday, Lawrence! May you always stay happy and fun! Who is he? A good friend from across the causeway and someone who studied in NZ, my favourite destination!

Happy Birthday, Lyn! May you have a wonderful day today! Ex-colleague who helped me a lot when I was in the Telco industry. Glad to know that she is doing well in her current job! All the best!

-------- Sawbear Travel ---------

Product Launch

Today I attended a product presentation at the National Museum of Singapore! Why there? I have no idea!

The presentation was rather good and at the end of the presentation, the organiser went through the content in the carrier bag that was presented to each guest. In the carrier bag, there were the latest product books and also a CD. The organiser announced that the CD was 'fresh from the oven'. Well, I laughed when he said that. Why? I have that CD 3 weeks ago! I was the 1st person to have the CD but I was sworn into secrecy.... until today! Hahahahaha! Hmm..... have to make sure no one who attended the presentation read this ...........

--------- Sawbear Travel ------------

Mistake..

I called Yasutaka this afternoon and guess what? It's not his birthday today! It's tomorrow! What a blunder! Hahahahahaha!

When I called and wished him, he thanked me and said that the Birthday is tomorrow! 'It's not today?' I asked. So silly of me! Still, he was happy that I 'remembered' his Birthday! Hahahahahahaha!


----------- Sawbear Travel ---------

More Birthdays....

Today, I celebrate 2 friends' birthday!

I have known Yasutaka since he was very little! His father, Omori, is a very dear friend of mine since 1983! I have stayed with the family many times over the years and have watched Yasutaka grown! Glad to know that he has graduated and now working in Tokyo! His parents live in Osaka and I hope he will always make a point to go back and visit them.

Daniel is a 'relatively' new friend, met last year. He is rather shy so I better not say much about him. Hahahahahaha!

Anyway, Happy Birthday to both of you! May you have a wonderful day TODAY!


----------- Sawbear Travel ---------

Gathering..

Had an enjoyable evening yesterday. Ex colleagues' gathering. Many of the ex colleagues were since 1987 - 1991! Over the years, I have met some of them occasionally but it was really fun to meet up again!

All of them have heard that I am back in Travel! News travels fast! Hahahahaha! Many of them are still in the travel industry....

Though we were all from the same Travel Company, we actually joined at different time! Few of us were pioneers and so we knew everyone! There were some who did not know each other because they were from different 'batches'!

It was really noisy! Even before arriving at the door step, I could hear the laughter from afar! We were afraid that the neighbours would complain!!!!! Hahahahaha!

Great catching up with so many of them.... many other could not come .... so much to talk about, so much to gossip! Hahahahahaha! Looking forward to the next gathering.....

--------- Sawbear Travel --------

More Birthday...

Another family member's Birthday today.....Happy Birthday, Win! May you always be loved by All! Hahahahahaha!

A friend is supposed to catch up for dinner..... played me out the last time.... did not turn up..... now...still has not called..... going to play me out again! Haiz.......! That's it! No more chance!

---------- Sawbear Travel ----------

Miscellaneous 2

My brother and family travelling to Japan tonight for holiday....Safe trip and enjoy yourself! Don't forget my souvenirs! Hahahahaha!

Some friends from Malaysia will be down tomorrow for seminar and work... safe trip too!

Gathering this weekend...ex colleagues in year 1997 to 1995.... busy ..busy....


--------- Sawbear Travel -----------

What An Experience....

Finally, I met my Big Boss......

Wow... many of my colleagues, who have been in the company for quite a while, have yet to meet him.... today I sat opposite him and listened to his queries. He does not have 3 heads and 6 arms (三头六臂), but being able to have a meeting with him was somewhat awesome... Haiz...forgot to take a picture with him...hahahahahaha!


----------- Sawbear Travel ---------

Johore Bahru

Just got back from JB.

Crossed the causeway into JB yesterday afternoon. It was very crowded at the Singapore immigration, JB side was ok.

Leo used to study in JB and brought me to the University Town to take a look. The 1st Jusco in JB was built there. Had some food and dessert and a little walk around before meeting with Jason & Kevin for dinner, Food again! Hahahahahaha!

Dinner was ok and a short stroll at Leisure Mall before going over to OldTown for coffee. Great catching with both, who asked why their pictures were not in my blog??!!!! Well, er..... I do not have your pictures! Hahahahaha!

Visited Terbrau City Mall today before heading back to Singapore.

--------- Sawbear Travel ---------

Friend from Malacca

A friend, Leo, drove down from Malacca last night. Will be catching up with him in JB. Supposed to get to Malacca this weekend but need to cover duty.... cannot make it. Why meet in JB? Well...... cheaper place to eat and have a good time! Hahahahahaha!
By the way, thanks for driving down here!


-------- Sawbear Travel --------

Just For You....

距离不代表分离
没联络不代表忘记
在忙碌交织的岁月里
我永远珍惜这份真挚的友情
绝不会把你从我的脑海洗掉！

---------- Sawbear Travel ------

Right Job...

A dear friend is travelling to Japan with his family. I have booked his flight and accommodation and today, I went through a suggested itinerary with him and his wife. You know, I really like my job.... when I will running through the day to day itinerary, I could feel the enthusiasm in me! Though I have only been back a few months, it's like I have been doing this all my life!

Today is Joseph's Birthday, family member from Taiwan. Happy Birthday! May you stay happy always and good health!

------- Sawbear Travel ---------

Memories....

Had lunch with my ex-colleagues today...near my previous office and also visited the other colleagues in the office... going back brought a lot of memories..... my 6 years in that office. Glad to have met up with them again... and wishing them well in their lives and work!

Till we meet again....take care!

------- Sawbear Travel ---------

It Will Not Happen Again.....

This afternoon, I had a missed call. The voice in my voice mail was not familiar and the caller did not mention who he was. I called back and actually chatted with the caller for a while....trying to figure out who he was! I did not want to let the caller know that I had no idea .... when I asked him where he was working..... he suddenly asked if I knew who he was and I sheepishly replied I did not have the faintest idea.... he was SO UPSET!!!!!!! Hahahahahahaha!

After pleading with him to tell me who he was, he finally gave in! Hahahahaha! When he told me to call him when I figure out who he was , I replied that it would not happen because I simply have no idea!!!!!! How could I call back when I have absolutely no clue!!!! Too many friends??????? Hahahahaha!

Fook Yeong, I have stored your name and number in my mobile so.... it will not happen again! Hahahahahaha! 3G sim can store 1000 numbers.....

Moral of the story : ask intelligent questions so that the receiver would not suspect! Hahahahaha!

------------ Sawbear Travel --------------

Safe Trip Back...

Had lunch with Chartchai today... and then brought him for foot reflex at Chinatown.... before bidding him goodbye. Flying back to Bangkok this evening. Safe trip .....

A friend from KL here for the weekend, also leaving for home today.... Safe trip too....


----------- Sawbear Travel ------------

Always Here For You....

Hi, received your mail.... let me know... will be here for you..... ALWAYS...... no matter what happens....


--------- Sawbear Travel ------------

Good Day today....

Thai family in town today....arrived from Sydney on SQ A380! Cool! Had seafood dinner at his favourite restaurant - Jumbo!

Also had lunch with Li and his wife... the guy who had an operation...remember? No? The guy who went to HKG and BKK recently..... remember now???? Hahahahahahaha!

------- Sawbear Travel ---------

Steamboat Dinner

Had steamboat dinner with some friends...at the same restaurant that I always go to(Paradise On Earth) .. 200 Tanjong Katong Road. Great stock! Simply delicious!

Must try the Satay stock ... reservation is 63459272....... usually crowded during dinner. Sorry, no discount even if you mention my name! Hahahahaha!


---------- Sawbear Travel -------------

Amended.....

To my dear friend who commented on my blog, I have done the necessary amendments. Happy? Hahahahaha! By the way, thanks for reading! I have a blog fan! Hahahahaha!


------- Sawbear Travel ---------

Matter of the heart 2

Sometimes I hope to hear from someone...but it never happens.... I just want to know if everything is ok..... I can call but...... sometimes I wish I could be the one receiving the call... how I wish.....

---------- Sawbear Travel ------------

Busy Week....

Yesterday was 2 dear friends ' birthday! Yes, yes! Many dear friends and many close friends! Hahahahaha!

I have known Michael since 1992 when he came to Singapore to promote his attraction (Kiwifruit Country - NZ). We worked together for many years and became very close friends. I have visited his place and even stayed with the family a couple of times! In fact, I recently met up with his son (Eddy) in Sydney!

Eric is now in Papua New Guinea and it's about the same time (as Michael) that I knew him. Eric has been working overseas in PNG and also in China for many years but I managed to keep in touch all these while.

To both, Happy Birthday and may you continue to enjoy your lives!

Few meetings today and overseas friends visiting this weekend...


-------- Sawbear Travel ----------

Back in Singapore

Got back this evening...

Had dim sum brunch with Frankie, Wallace and Raymond. It was great! One good thing about flying on CX is that you can check-in in town (in Central Station or Kowloon Station) early in the morning even when your flight is later! I went to check in at the Central Station and then to brunch. At least I do not have to bring my luggage with me!

Many thanks to Frankie and Wallace for hosting me again. They are really FANTASTIC HOSTS!

Back to work tomorrow..colleagues going away for holidays.... need to cover duty...

-------- Sawbear Travel ---------=

Still in Hong Kong...

03 Nov 07

Busy morning..... went to visit a few Hotels... L' Hotel, LFK Hotel and Lanson Place. Nice hotels..especially LKF (REALLY NICE)...but not so for location.

Met up with Wallace and Frankie and went over to the new Shopping Mall (at Kowloon Station) - Elements. Big but not as busy as expected. Went to have lunch at Habitu - an Italian Restaurant and then window shopping.. (yes...no real shopping)

Met up with their badminton friends for dinner. It was a good meal - seafood! Had a great time eating n chatting!

It's also Frankie's Birthday! Happy Birthday, my dear family member!

Leaving on Sunday (04 Nov) back to Singapore.


----------- Sawbear Travel ------------

In Hong Kong

I am in Hong Kong now...

Arrived on Thursday night...took the airbus to Tai Koo Shing (about 1 hour). Went for supper with Frankie and Wallace, my family in Hong Kong.

Busy day on Friday. 1st appointment at 9:45am over at Tsimshatsui. Took the MTR and arrived slightly earlier. Hey, the famous Wanton noodle shop is just in front! My favourite shop for wanton noodle in Hong Kong! Simply cannot miss it! Ordered a bowl of wanton noodle and thoroughly enjoyed it!

Visited Panorama Hotel (Hart Ave...great ocean view room..room not very big though; Langham Place at Mongkok has great location and Luxe Manor at Kimberley is unique in its concept...also met up with my land operators.

Dinner was at Northpoint - Alice, Kitty, Ah Leong, 3rd Uncle and Michael, together with Wallace n Frankie. Had a wonderful time fellowship!

More hotel inspection this morning.....


----------- Sawbear Travel ------------------

New Friend...

Met a new friend this evening.. Mark from Philippines,working in IT. Has only been here about 4 months. Got along well and had a nice time chatting. Glad to make new friend and hope to keep in touch.

-------- Sawbear Travel ----------

Travelling Again...

Will be travelling to Hong Kong tomorrow afternoon.... a couple of meetings/inspections on Friday and then personal matters on Saturday. Envy me??!!!! Don't! Hahahahahaha!

Will be back on Sunday. Short trip....

--------- Sawbear Travel -----------

Carrot Cake....

'What's the difference between this carrot cake and that carrot cake??!!!' One is 'ang moh' carrot cake and the other is 'dng nang' carrot cake!!! This was the topic for discussion in the office today!

ANA celebrates the 1st anniversary of its morning flight to Tokyo and brought us a huge carrot cake...(ang moh carrot cake). One colleague was trying to get another to try but the other colleague only take 'Chinese' carrot cake and not 'ang moh's. 'It's still carrot cake'...yes.. 'but it's not the same carrot'! Huh????? !!!!! Confused!!!!!!

Well, the 'ang moh' carrot cake uses real carrot but the 'Chinese carrot cake' uses radish... right? I think so..... hahahahahaha!

Anyway,..... at the end of the day...her piece of 'ang moh' carrot cake was still there..... she is pro 'Chinese'.... hahahahahahaha!


--------- Sawbear Travel -----------

Pen Friend of Yesteryears.....

This afternoon I received a call from my China pen friend! Yes, pen- friend! Never heard of???!!!! Hahahaha!

We started writing to each other since 1982 when my Pre-U teacher went to China on an exchange programme and brought back some contacts. About year 1999/2000, we managed to catch up in ShenZhen and also in Singapore. Since then, we continued to keep in touch through calls and emails. I have not seen him for the last 8 years!

We spent the evening at the coffee house catching up on old time...there's simply so much to talk about...so little time.... we promise to try and catch up again as often as possible....be it in Singapore or in ShenZhen.

After so many years, glad to know he still treasures the friendship. Spoke to his father and wife on the phone separately and they could still remember me! So touched.....

Will definitely make a point to catch up again...

------- Sawbear Travel --------

Old Friend....

Met up with a old friend....old not in age but in years of friendship! Hahahahahaha! Managed to find some time off from his 'busy schedule' to have lunch with me. Went to Food Republic at VivoCity. He loved it! He loved the deco! He thought the place was great!

Though we have caught up before in Singapore and KL the last few months, there's still a lot to talk about...especially when we lost touch for many years! We will definitely be meeting up again time to time and slowly catching up on those lost years.

Glad to have 'found' him again after all these years and will surely treasure the friendship!

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Very Special....

Today, I sent a sms to someone very dear to me...... and received a reply. Though it was just a reply..it meant a lot to me.... it did...

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Don't Ever Let Go...

I don't ever want us to let go

of each other,

Maybe our paths will go

in separate directions,

but that won't change the bond

we share and what's in our heart.

No matter where I am

or what I am doing,

when you come to mind

a smile comes to my face

and a warmth settles in my heart.

The day you and I met

will always be cherished

And no matter what,.

we always let each other know

that we do love and care

about each other.

You are more than just

a friend to me.

I often struggle to say how I feel,

but I hope we never let go

of what we share,

because whether it's across the miles

or just a short distance,

you are and will always be

a part of my life and me.

-------- Sawbear Travel ------------

Thanks......

One a blue moon, I will receive a sms from someone that is special and that always brightens up the moment.... tonight.... I received such sms again!

Thanks for telling me .... at least I know.... you are always in my thoughts too....

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Work & Miscellaneous..

November and December are busy months.... many colleagues travelling overseas (tour leading)... still have many people booking last minute. Managed to grab some seats to Japan in December for a good friend this morning! Well...if you are thinking of travelling and have not booked anything..... chances are you will not be able to get anything on Free n Easy, unless you join group tours.... some companies may still have some seats left.... Good luck! Hahahahahaha!

Some friends travelling overseas this weekend...safe trip! A dear friend flying in from KL this weekend.... looking forward to catching up with him....

A dear family member leaving for Hokkaido this weekend for 10 months..safe trip and take care of yourself! Hope to catch up soon!

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So Thankful.....

This morning I received an sms from a friend who asked if she needed visa to go Japan...she is holding Malaysia Passport... Well... She needs and her flight is tomorrow morning!

Realising the problem, managed to ask her to go to the Embassy to apply for visa...but was told slim chance as needed 3 days for application. Still, she went and as the documents were not in order, she was asked to go again in the afternoon. The officer was quite helpful but could only help her get the visa out by tomorrow afternoon. There was nothing anyone could do....

Trying to change her flight but needed a colleague to help...using her special relationship with the airline's manager. After hearing my problem, she tried to talk to the dispatch to see if they could help. The dispatch was very helpful and made calls to the embassy.... even went down to the embassy to try and get them to help.

After getting all the necessary documents for the embassy, the visa application was approved! It's really amazing! It's almost impossible to get the visa on the same day! I am so fortunate! Thank God!

The moral of the story.... be nice to your colleagues....you may need their help one day! Hahahahahahaha!

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Not myself today....

Overheard my colleagues talking.... about me.... that I am not myself today.....

Indeed... though I seemed to be very busy with my work, somehow I was not the usual me....

My mind was thinking of someone.... someone very special... still could not get that someone off my head..... missing that someone very much.....

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Do Me A Favour, My Friend....

For the times when

we're apart,

I want you to keep me in your heart

and in your mind.

Just quietly close your eyes once in a while

and imagine me here smiling and thinking

such thankful thoughts of you.

For I spend so many quiet moments

of my own

thinking how much I miss you,

and how hard it is to be apart,

and how wonderful it is

that you're always with me,

warm and cherished...

here in my heart.

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South Australia - Brilliant Blend

Spent the whole day at Marina Square.... South Australia has a consumer awareness exhibition and being part of the consortium for Brilliant Blend, need to be present to help promote the destination...... just the presence.... did not sell anything...... hahahahahaha!

Many people passed by, tried wine tasting, children took part in the drawing contest..... famous guitarist from Australia performed a few numbers..... etc.... nothing really exciting.... just awareness.....

South Australia is really scenic.... should visit ...... need travel advice? Ask me! Hahahahahaha!

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Cleaning Up....

This morning, I went to office to try and tidy up all my brochures (collected from the trips and workshops attended).... so much of them.... finally got everything done and realised that there's no more space under my desk! Jam packed! Need to find space elsewhere...... (otherwise, will need to throw away some brochures.....hmm.... which ones to throw away...?)

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Safe Trip...

Good friend of mine is going to Hong Kong and Bangkok with the wife..... safe trip, my friend and have fun! Enjoy yourself!

Call me when free and I will tell you where to go at night..... don't bring your wife.....hahahahahaha!

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Pictures of Canberra n Sydney...

Here are some pictures from the trip...


Hotair ballooning in Canberra

Picture with the Minister of Tourism



Floriade, Spring Festival


Bateman's Bay
Kiama Beach

Coastal Scenery from Wollongong to Sydney

Koalas in Sydney Wildlife Centre
Sydney Opera House

Sydney Fish Market
Darling Harbour

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I'll Always Be There....

There are a thousand things

I would like to be for you...

but one of the most important

is just being

the someone

you can talk to.

There are many things

I would like

to do for you....

and so many things I would like

to say and give and share.

But for today

I just want you to know

that I promise to be

your friend for life.

I 'll always be there,

and I'll always care.

---- Sawbear Travel ----

Busy Forecast Ahead...

This work is definitely a lot busier than my previous! In my previous job, Nov and Dec are slow months and not so busy.... but I am expected to be busy in Nov and Dec, preparing my packages for Jan to June..... product training in Jan and another Mega Travel Fair in February! Hey, this is more than I bargain for! Hahahahahaha!

Some datelines to meet by end of October but I have hardly even started! Been away...... too long! Hahahahahaha! Haiz.......

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Birthday Greetings Again.....

A special Day today..... 3 close friends' Birthday ( I have many close friends!)

Lee Hong joined the travel industry same time as me and in the same company many years ago... (she will kill me if I reveal her age!) All these years, we have kept in touch even when she married off to Hong Kong. In fact, she sms today to remind me to buy her dinner! Anytime, my dear!

Yasu is a dear friend in Osaka. We met in the early nineties! Wow.... so long time ago! Over the years, we have met up several times, in Osaka, Singapore and even Bangkok! He is a very dear friend and every year, without fail, I will send him birthday greetings!

The 3rd person is a very special friend.... in fact, he was my customer when I was in the travel industry years ago! I met CH when he came to book Japan Tour (I think)....in 1991! He was impressed with my service (I hope so! Hahahaha) and made an effort to keep in touch. All these years, I have known him and his family and had the privilege to arrange tours for them. To make the Birthday even more special, it is also his wedding anniversary! Happy Birthday and Happy Anniversary!

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Back to Busy Life Again....

Back to busy life again....

Have to write reports on the trip..... and to clear all the emails ......

Caught up with Gerald and Pobe (your names are being mentioned again!) for dinner..... Pobe going back to Thailand tomorrow....Have a safe trip, and see you again soon!
A new friend, Dave, joined us for dinner...

Busy Sunday..... have to attend exhibition at Marina Square.... also many agencies having travel fair (AGAIN!!!!)


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Trip to Canberra n Sydney

Well.... let me tell you about my recent trip (CAPEX 6 - 12 Oct / TNSW 12 - 15Oct)

Left on the morning on the 6th of Oct and flew to Perth. Cleared immigration and custom and then took a ride to the domestic airport to catch the connecting flight to Canberra! Why did we fly via Perth? Well..... because the flights to Sydney were full!!!! Hahahahahaha! By the time we got into Canberra, it was about 10pm! We literally spent the whole day in the air!!!!
Tired and hungry, we tried to look for a supermarket and after walking for more than 30 mins, we finally found Woolsworth.... we got there 5 mins before closing time! Certainly a great way to start the trip! Hahahaha!

The next morning.... I got up and walked around the apartment and found a 24 hours minimart (at a petrol kiosk) just 5 mins away!!!!!!!

The highlight of the Canberra trip was Floriade... the Spring festival. The Gardens was filled with BEAUTIFUL FLOWERS! It was really SPECTACULAR! I had a wonderful time walking and admiring the flowers! The Minister of Tourism was also there to welcome us! I managed to take a picture with him!

Throughout the 4 nights in Canberra, we visited a lot of places.... Parliament House, War Memorial, National Museum, Institute of Sports, etc... Canberra certainly has a lot to offer..... but may not be suitable for Singaporeans..... shh.... do not tell the Tourism people who invited me!

We had different types of food - Indian, Turkish, Pizzas, Chinese..... and during one lunch, we had wraps and we thought that was starters... we were wrong! Hahahahahaha!

The self drive to the coastal areas in New South Wales was very interesting - great scenery along the way. We drove to Batemans Bay, Jervis Bay, Kiama, Wollongong and up to Sydney airport. We had 7 Taragos, travelling in a convoy... rather spectacular and we were even mentioned in the local newspapers!

Most of the agents flew back on Friday but I extended my stay in Sydney till Monday and Tourism New South Wales organised my stay with lots of hotel/apartment inspection and sightseeing as well. Most of the time, I was walking all over Sydney, looking at hotels and apartments! Very tiring!

Still, I managed to visit the Wildlife Centre and Sydney Aquarium (which are location at Darling Harbour). Also visited the Rocks market (only on Saturday), Paddy's Market and the Fish Market. A trip up Sydney Tower is certainly a must!

In Sydney, I managed to meet up with my dear brother, Kelvin. It was really wonderful and thanks for spending time with me, Brother! I also managed to meet up with a dear friend I met in Sydney maybe 10 years ago... had dinner with his family. It was really memorable as I have not seen them for more than 8 years!

This trip has been very good for me....especially when I have left the trade for more than 6 years! So much to catch up..... and guess what? My team won in the quiz we had during the self drive! Wow! I had great team mates!

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