What I Like (Or Not) About Las Vegas

Las Vegas, or Sin City, whichever you call it, is a much publicized city in the movies, commercials, anecdotes, that it has risen to that prime spot for reputation internationally.
So much has gone into that fame that Vegas is today a world tourist destination, and I am sure the locals couldn't be more pleased (in whichever context) with that pouring fortune coming in from all the tourism and of course, the investments in their luck here at the well-established landmarks surrounding the center of the city.

Like many around the world (I am sure many have the same initial perception as well), Vegas, to me, is this city of entertainment and filled with many 'interesting' activities; particularly skewed towards the more adventurous side.
The city is like a large Wheel of Fortune to me; where one can spin or look all around the city and rest his/her eyes on something that would catch their eye or that probably just looks fun, in their very own perception.
It sounds like there is something for everyone to do in Vegas, but to be honest, is that really as they make it out to be or is it just another promotional tag for the travel brochures?

For many, there is no doubt Sin City has its own foundations to build to its reputation/name and it is definitely not wrong to land in that perception. Gambling, or trying their luck at making it big at their fortunes (as they call it) is just one of the vices to begin with. Gambling sounds like a harsh word, definitely, but we are not far from the truth. To soften the allegation of the negative aura surrounding the word, it would definitely be more acceptable to look at it, or even refer to it as one's attempt to try their luck.

Sampling your luck, or just taking it up as a challenge is probably a fun way to look at it, and it certainly is when one is just simply in it for the fun. However, often some get too carried away that they no longer focus on the fun and have indulged in the commitment to the table; staying confined to that space until they have lost focus on their loss and are intent on continuous investment of their fortune, just betting on luck. Scientifically, it is not all about luck when it comes to gambling, as there is a certain probability tied to it, but that is only made known to certain individuals who probably wrote a thesis on it (and made big fortunes with their science knowledge).
The point is, when one starts to believe seriously and lose themselves (and money) in changing their luck, and lives on that table, that is when this becomes a vice, and negatively so.

I am not an advocate of gambling; never was, and that was probably why I had never see that as one of the attractions in Vegas. That is just me, though I do find it fascinating the creativity invested in these fortune makers and masterminds behind the casinos, in coming up with many different types of modes/machines/avenues to cajole people from all over the world and we are talking about diversity here in masses, to just place their bets (their fortune) to contribute to these folks' fortunes.
Walking through the casinos, I would never be even tempted to even attempt a coin slot to try my luck; simply because I am not just a strong believer of pure luck.
(That's probably a different topic altogether, and it's not because I am just so negative about the lack of luck or anything like that). Neither am I a weak-willed person who cannot control myself and just fall into temptations; no, it's just not like that. I just don't like to gamble, or placing my trust and fortune on a machine/table, period.

There may be many people enjoying it, but I am saying, that if it doesn't lead to any negative emotions or situations, then it would be considered fun, otherwise, I am not sure that I like the idea of how it changes a person to the darker side.

Las Vegas can be a very vibrant city that comes to life, especially at night, obviously.
I liked how happening and lively the city is like, but at the same time, it could get a little rowdy and packed at the same time. Crowds can be suffocating, merry, gay and yet disturbing all in the same context. I probably made this sound confusing, but you get the idea.
It can be exhilarating and adrenaline-pumping to see how excited people get, and how people are just so open and fun to be around with in the large crowds. It is as though there are no boundaries; it does not matter where you are from, who you are, why you are here - everyone is just there to have fun.
That is the interesting part about Vegas, or even United States for that matter, where total strangers could be hugging or placing that high-five and just start a conversation with anyone in a friendly manner just right there on the spot.
Loud music are playing everywhere in Vegas, and that's where people would sing or even dance along, mind you, and it's all normal to see dancing on the streets.
It is just pure FUN, and I am amazed at how people are able to take that term "Let your hair down" to that extent, and I just love that concept.

At the same time, some could tend to get too close to comfort, especially the drunk crowd or those over-friendly people and social problems tend to come to mind. It is no-brainer that one has to watch out for their belongings; not just in Vegas, of course, but it is good to put your guard on (especially if you are a lady) when being pushed around or shoved(probably squeezed a little) in that mass of crowds. Definitely not for the claustrophobics, I would say.

There are just so many things to look forward to in Vegas, as I have covered in my previous articles, and I am sure there are more on others' lists compared to mine.
It is all about fun, and having a good time in this city, as we have all seen in movies depicting the atmosphere of the city (and it is always at night, if you have noticed because that is when the city really, really comes to life) and I can't say I fully disagree.
That's probably why the city is a little over the top in the commercialization part; and to a certain extent, the city probably is just too commercialized to my liking.
It is not a bad thing, of course, particularly for the financial and commercial growth of the city but when things become provocatively commercialized, identity takes on a different turn and in a totally different light.

In a nutshell, Vegas is a city which is just so full of life and excitement that it is not for the conservatives or the faint-hearted.

Visit Vegas with an open mind, and take in what the city has to offer rather than setting your very own levels of expectations, just like how traveling ought to be anyway, wherever you go.
Some may not find it is their cup of tea, but hey, at least, you have seen Vegas in her true form and you can say, "Been there, done that" and tick it off your bucket list.

I have been to Vegas, and yeah, done that, definitely! :-)

And remember, Vegas, is a large, Wheel of Fortune, spin it around, and take in from all around the angles!

Scenes from the US Highways

Traveling from one place to another along the same geographical area can be relatively convenient with the well-established highways and freeway system in the United States.

One can easily be in one state today and in another state the next day after probably a couple of hours on the road; or perhaps the term 'couple of hours' could be an understatement as most of the road trips could take up to five hours or more. The longest I have personally traveled on the road while in the United States was a total of seven to eight hours; from the state of Arizona to Los Angeles, and that is along the same western coast of the country, mind you.
It goes without saying that the road trips would make more sense when one is traveling across the states along the same coast and within the reasonable distance.

While it may sound like a long and boring journey, I personally can vouch for my own experience that it was definitely far from boring as I was entertained by the beautiful scenes of nature popping up animatedly throughout the journey. Perhaps it is also my own preference that I am fond of traveling on the road; be it driving on the highways or just enjoying the ride as a passenger, I do like road trips (yes, I am way past that point of getting car sick).

The scenes of nature can be such reassuring images; calm, peaceful, serene, they are just the things one would need to take the troubles out of one's mind as these amazing wonders continue to mesmerize and captivate our attention while at the same time, soothe the mind.


I love these moving pictures which just changes with a wave of the wind (not wand) as we whiz down the road, in what seems to be like a well-coordinated and staged art of cinematography.
There are just so many things to see, and while one may see them as just the same scenes of mountains, trees, plants, hills, oasis, and the sun, I see them as pictures of serenity and harmony; all interwoven together to form that breathtaking piece known as Mother Nature.



While the scenes may seem like they are similar along the journey, there are also different images as we drive through the small towns, outskirts and across the mountainous or even coastal areas.
From farms to plantations and forest reserves, these are just a few to mention of the local scenes spotted on our journey traveling on the road.



Perhaps it is the different country or region, which makes it a refreshing experience for us, or for me personally. Every scene has a story to tell, and I enjoy the stories each of them is trying to convey to me through the window pane.

The only thing I noticed is that the highways are not as friendly as our local Malaysian highways; established with R&R stops along the way and there is only a gas station after a long distance, although there are the occasional towns popping up but sometimes, there are just none and that is when I could not help comparing to our very own highways back home, which are also, by the way, filled with our very own tropical scenes.

Still, there is always beauty in everything we see around the world as God works his great wonders everywhere.

Flying with class, Singapore Airlines Business

There is always a silver lining beneath every cloud, and that everything happens for a reason were just the two familiar phrases ringing in my mind as I was sitting at the lounge whiling time away, waiting for my flight, and for a good reason too, especially after the harrowing experience just the day before as I was about to get on my flight.

While it was definitely an unforgettable experience, it did make two of them as I could not believe that I was about to be boarding the flight and this time, seated in the business class section.
It was about to my first experience, and one that I will not forget.
(It may be common for many people who have been traveling business class for years, and may even chuckle at me :-) but I don't mind, as I will probably laugh at myself too years from now on).

Flying business class does not makes one rich, and it is also not all about the prestige and luxury but rather the comfort and the experience especially for the long haul flights; sometimes even
Of course, it elevates one's status with the priority check-in counter designated for the Business and First Class flyers and also the business lounges available for these priority flyers on Singapore Airlines operated flights; the Silver Kris Lounge or the Krisflyer Gold Lounge.

Silver Kris Lounge is accessible for Singapore Airlines Suites, First, Business Class and PPS club members while the Krisflyer Gold Lounge is accessible for the KrisFlyer Elite Gold Member on Singapore Airlines economy class.
(Requirements may differ for codeshare flights though).

Silver Kris Lounge in KLIA (Kuala Lumpur International Airport) is well-equipped with the basic facilities; from comfortable couches and Wi-Fi Access to the mini bar counter serving food and drinks, and washrooms/bathrooms to the racks filled with magazines and daily news. To top all that, there is the friendly and hospitable service from the staff to make your waiting time a pleasant one.







Enjoy the view of the daily scenes taking place at the airport while sipping the juices or typing away at your laptop as you relax in their comfy seats.



Boarding the plane was smooth and swift, as the moment the boarding commences, priority is given to the elderly, the infirm and those traveling with children for the economy class while the Suites, First, Business Class and PPS Club members are all free to board at their own convenience anytime.
A different gate for access to the First and Business Class section for the short flight to Singapore.



Luxe leather seats, larger and more comfortable seat spacing and for one to stretch their legs are just the few things to enjoy at first glance.



The flight attendants are attentive as always (even in economy class), and they would be ready with fresh juices and beverages to serve the Business Class passengers while the other passengers are boarding the plane. It may be a short flight, but Singapore Airlines definitely took to note the comfort of their passengers with their hospitality.
The refreshment snack served on my morning flight was the Croissant with seafood otak-otak; a common yet down-to-earth snack but served in a classy gourmet meal setting, complete with napkins and stainless steel cutlery.


The experience made the flight seemed shorter than usual, not to mention the first class service provided by the flight attendants.

However, the real deal came with the long haul flight which was truly a memorable experience and one with class with every detail being taken care of to make the long hours as comfortable as possible  for us passengers.
Larger and well-spaced seats promised more privacy to the passengers with their cube-like enclosures .
Take note that the seat numbers are on the side rather than the top as in economy class, and the slightly encapsulated area of one's seat is a good idea for one to enjoy their movies, reading or even sleeping at their own comfort without feeling like they are being watched by everyone.


There is more than sufficient space for one's seat to recline in a graceful manner, in fact; the seat was designed to recline all the way to make a flat bed for one to sleep on.
The space behind the seat; before it folds and flattens, stores the pillows and blankets reserved especially for the personal use of the seat owner.



There is also different sections in the tv screen panel in front; with USB ports and sockets for charging and for electronic devices use, alongside with a hook for hanging coat, vanity mirror with light, and a foldable and adjustable foot rest as shown below.


There are also additional compartments by the side (for window seats) to store their personal belongings in a tidy manner when one goes to sleep or during the flight.



When it comes to service with a class, Singapore Airlines proved that they are into the details with their aim to ensure their passengers enjoy a comfortable flight.
It lies all in the details; from the design of the seats to the materials used and the space, to the special menu and the settings for a good dining experience which make all the difference for the Business Class (and I am sure it is even better in the First and Suites Class).


Nothing slips the mind of these folks behind Singapore Airlines, as each meal is served with proper settings and fine cutlery, and most importantly, with a smile by the friendly flight attendants.




The menu provided specially crafted meals by their very own chefs; who did an amazing job with the food selection and the presentation of each dish from the appetizers to the main course and the desserts.


Besides the main meals, there is also an all-day dining menu which offers tidbits and light snacks should one get hungry during the long flight.
Just request from the flight attendant and they will be delighted to serve you; the same goes for the drinks with many being special signature concoctions exclusive to Singapore Airlines.



Singapore Airlines Sunrise Sling (or something like that)






It was truly a wonderful experience and I look forward to many more to come.
Prices of the Business Class may be steep; with probably double the price that of economy, but the long haul flights promise a comfortable flight and a good rest throughout the flight.

Comfort, luxury, hospitality and class are all rolled into one on the Business Class of Singapore Airlines and is an exemplary standard to meet their passengers' requirements.

I am not in any way sponsored by Singapore Airlines to write this post, but just merely sharing my personal experience.
I am also not against the Economy Class, as I fly on economy regularly and they are still good too and there is no lowering of standards in the economy class though one can expect the difference in the offering of the facilities, but generally they still strive very hard to meet all their passengers' requirements.

Now, did I also mention that there are also priority tags for the Business Class passengers' luggages? *winks*




*Note: This is not a sponsored post, and is just a personal experience. I am in no way affiliated with Singapore Airlines and am not against Economy Class flights which I do fly on a regular basis.
Thank you.

Taiwan Travelogue: Taoyuan International Airport and a glance at the city

When the word Travel pops up, I am almost instantly excited and all the pictures of vacation and the prospects of wandering to a new place to see the other side of the world just come rushing into my mind. I mean, who doesn't like the idea of traveling, right?
So, when we decided and finalized on a surprise trip (oh, my surprise trip actually, by my hubby) last two months, I was thrilled and overjoyed that I was to pack my bags and get ready for another adventure.
Destination?
Taiwan, yes, that is the place that I have been talking about for years, and have yet to make a trip and finally, it was realized early this year.
Almost everyone has been to Taiwan, but hey, it is not a race, so we are taking our own time to plan and explore this gem in Asia (though I would not say much about the planning, as it was more of a spur-of-the-moment kind of trip).

The idea of an early flight never bothers me, as I am naturally an early person who wakes up way before the birds do in the morning every day. Besides, when one is to embark on a journey to see the world, who needs that much sleep anyway?
I was busy finalizing my packing from the night before, and needless to say, I need no alarm clock to wake me up that morning as I was just anticipating the trip.

The newly renovated Penang International Airport, with the International Departure Gate beckoning to us while we finalize our documents after checking in.



 It was an approximately 5 hours flight; with a layover at the Hong Kong Chek Lap Kok International Airport, for about an hour before we finally landed at our destination.



Huge Taiwan flag displayed at the airport, greeting visitors at first sight upon landing at the international airport's runway.





Taiwan's Taoyuan International Airport, formerly known as Chiang Kai Shek International Airport (CKS) has seen the years taking its toll on this once glorious and much acclaimed landmark making to the list of one of the most impressively modern architecture for an airport in Asia and today, its lacklustre appearance has dethroned her from the likes of the rise of the other much modernized counterparts in the neighboring countries.
It was rather quiet really, at the time of my arrival, and the airport, while still maintaining the basic architecture is currently undergoing minor modifications to upgrade her already fading glory as proudly worn now by the far more impressive airports in Asia. While it is not too bad, I could not help but agree that the airport did indeed lack the wow factor and did not seem to synonym with the prestigious hat worn by one of the Five Tigers of the East, in which Taiwan was in the list. It may signal time for an upgrade, and I am sure it would be on the many belts of planning in the country.

Spotted, Hsin Tung Yang's outlet located at the airport, one of the big household names in the country for their pastries and baked goods (perhaps something like our very own Bee Cheng Hiang?)



As usual, we always preferred to travel on our own rather than book on tours and therefore, most of the time, it would require a lot of of research and planning to get around independently.
The first and foremost concern in question is the transportation, upon arrival, as in, getting out of the airport and to our hotel.

We found that there are bus services available at the airport, and for an approximate of TWD150 (~MYR16), we could board a bus which would take us to the nearest MRT station to our hotel.
(There is no direct bus to the hotel where we have booked for our stay).



There was a designated area right outside the airport where we could wait for our buses, and the lines are drawn clearly on the grounds for the queues. The Taiwanese do take their queues really seriously, based on my first impression as I noticed how the people would stand religiously and obediently to wait and there is no one who would cross over to overtake another. I would say this is something which should be observed and practised in all the countries.



Now, I have to admit, I am not much of a bus person. In fact, I am not much of a public transportation system either, and maybe you could say I am spoilt in that sense, but in my country, it seems to be easier and more convenient to own a car which gets us everywhere. Okay, now that sounds a little like over pampering, and I guess it is true. Don't get me wrong, I have gotten on buses and trains back in my country before, but not on a regular or daily basis, perhaps also due to my job nature and the frequent traveling, I am more used to cars.

Anyway, I am not that familiar with the bus system, and I was a little skeptical initially, preferring the cabs over the buses, but I was proven wrong when the bus arrived.
I was instantly bowled over by the warm welcome of the bus steward (yes, they have one) who came over to our queue to greet and to confirm on our tickets and destination, and of course, checking on the luggages. He helped us to put the luggages into the designated compartment at the lower part of the bus and then gladly answered our questions as we checked with him on the direction the bus will be traveling and our destination.

The bus was not like those public buses I had pictured, but rather, it felt more like a luxury coach which just made me instantly relaxed as I got on and enjoy my trip.
Oh one thing though, I remembered that the bus had this flapping sound at the roof; where I noticed that there was a huge plastic taped to prevent rain drops so I guess, it is time they look into the maintenance of the bus. After all, Taiwan is prone to rainfall too.



It was an approximately 45 minutes ride to the town; as the airport is located at an estimated 40km (~25 miles) away from the center of the city.

Scenes of Taipei from the bus (be reminded that these are from the outskirts of Taipei, as these are taken while traveling from the airport)









Arriving at the city; and the sudden change in the weather.
We were there in January, and it was during the winter season where sudden changes in temperature and rainfall can occur.
However, the weather was not too cold as in some of the other countries I have traveled to, and it was just nice with an average temperature of 16 degrees Celsius, and on certain days, it could go up to 18, or drop to 10, but in general, the temperature was just a cooler escape from the heat in our country.





Taipei is another metropolitan city that is full of hustle bustle and needs no introduction as our bus enters the roads lined with shophouses, skyscrapers and swerving against the motorcycles or rather, scooters which were so notoriously known and associated with the city that they have almost become one of the most iconic things to look out for in the city.



To be continued....

My first experience with Cathay

As far as I can remember, I have always only taken the few airlines since I started traveling; other than that first time I flew out of the country for a camp which I attended on a scholarship years ago when I was still in high school; and that was Northwest Airlines, and other than that, it has always, or at least, almost always the same airlines.
My frequent mileage points are accumulated on those few usual airlines, though I do board different airlines occasionally.

Cathay Pacific airlines is always this airline which I have heard of; which is no surprise as it is one of the highly acclaimed airlines originating from Hong Kong. My first experience was supposed to be last year where I was booked on a flight to the States (which I have yet to blog about, bummer, but will be coming up soon after this series, I promise), and unfortunately got cancelled due to some circumstances which was rather unpleasant. In short, I would not say that was really that memorable of an experience and I would rather dismiss it as it left a bitter taste that I was quite skeptical about the airlines for a short while.
Anyway, you don't avoid airlines for long especially with a major airline like Cathay, which flies regularly to Hong Kong and Taiwan unless you just avoid traveling to those countries.

My recent trip got me booked on Cathay Pacific again, and this time, it was for real, as in I boarded the flight and flew to and from my destination (to be revealed soon).
I have noticed that the seats and space in the aircraft were definitely larger compared to my usual (MAS and SIA), leaving much more leg space right in front.



No complaints about the punctuality, and the ground staff service too, as checking in was quite efficient and swift at the counters. We were bound on a early morning flight, and it did not take us long to get ourselves on board the aircraft.


Raining early in the morning, on the day I was taking off 

Interesting features to take note of on the aircraft: 
1. Touch screen television (selection of movies could be improved to include more variety)

2. Standard power outlet ports available for phone/tablets/laptop charging (the usual 3-pin used in Malaysia, Singapore and Hong Kong).

3. There is this option available on screen where one can view the flight taking off and landing through the camera installed in front of the aircraft

Moving on to the meals, Airlines meals rarely got anyone excited, and I am sure most would agree with me though I have not had much to complain about when I was on my usual airlines.

While Cathay had surpassed in the space and comfortable seats in her aircraft, I can't say the same about the meals served on board. Perhaps it was my own picky tastes when it came to food, or the excitement which enveloped my thoughts at the time of the flight, but frankly, having the same type of food presented to you on both of your outgoing and incoming flight is not exactly my idea of a vacation. I just felt that there could be a little more variety in the choices of food on the menu, or perhaps it was just my luck.














Overall, I wouldn't say my experience was bad, as besides the food, I did find the entire experience an extremely pleasant one and it helped that we had signed up for the Marco Polo membership which entitled us to privileges during boarding and checking in. (find out more at the Cathay Pacific's official website).

To be continued with my destination in a bit....stay tune~