close call

After the long night, we chose to chill on the morning. The bad news came when we brought our food tray to the breakfast lady. We had to check out! My friend miscalculated. Luckily business was slow and there was an empty room for 3. However it was at a slightly higher cost of €60 for the night. We were given 20 minutes to move to room 5. Our fastest record.

As we took time to settle down, we were once again rushing to catch the free walking tour at 12pm in front of the town hall. Luckily we were on time and the tour tends to start later. Martina was our guide. It was a surprisingly big group - a couple from Russia, Australia and Norway, a German, swedish, Canadian and a mother and daughter from DC.

Our guide took us to the off beaten path, beginning from the flag colors, George Bush, German st, Jewish synagogue and then around the Republic to look for artwork. We went up the hill for a view of the city. The hike down was scary though given the steepness. We even heard the story about a famous movie made in 1970 about south America, standing on one of the set.

After the tour, we headed to the Christmas Market at the Town Square and waited for VT. We drove out to the suburb to see the place where cannon was made. It was so windy. Then we were taken to a popular restaurant for traditional Lithuanian dishes. We shared 5 dishes and a bread soup.

Next we headed back to the town square to watch the 3D Christmas fairytale. We were early as the show was only to start at 615pm instead of 6pm as our host thought. We tried to look for a great spot among the sea of people. Unfortunately before the show started, a lady carrying a child came in front of us. We heaved loud sigh of disappointment which resulted in the lady moving to the side. Our host, amused, made us do it again. Hehe.

After the show, we went to make a wish in front of the new palace building. Close eyes, make a wish, spin 3 times and then jump backward. That was funny. A lot of people did it too.

We spent the evening spotting the central bank, learning histories of some of the buildings, buying booze and finally looking at the night view from the hill.

The day was perfect thanks to great host. I never knew Lithuanian are so gracious and friendly.

27 Dec

Started the day real early to catch the 645 train to siauliai. It was a 2.5 hours ride. Our host met us at the station.

After stopping for coffee in a local mall, we headed out straight to the hills of crosses. Lina thought it was an interesting choice and she is local. We were really lucky to have her. Tourists were scarce.

After that, we went to an old cathedral and the shopping St. We were disappointed that the cock on the clock did not work as we waited for it at 12pm. It only moved. Lunch was great with traditional Lithuanian dishes.

We were then taken to the ruta chocolate museum, next to Lina's old school. Spent some time on the guided tour, tea at the shop and bought chocolates.

It was rather late by then. Lina took us to her parent's house to grab their luggage. We were surprised to see tea ready for us. Her mom made pie. We were also treated to jelly from VT's mom and homemade jam. Lina's mom was really nice.

Our next stop was kaunas as Lina has a reunion to attend.  They were really excited to meet each other as some had been away. Each brought a present from their job. It was a pretty cool idea. Lina brought a Maggi mug and chocolates.

A little after 10pm, we left. We only arrived in the city after midnight. I was totally tired.

26 Dec

After a hearty breakfast, we caught our 930 bus to trakai Castle. The ride was slightly more than half an hour. It was another half an hour walk before we could reach the castle. But the walk was really scenic along the river.

From Castle, we moved on to sennoji kibinine for our first taste of Lithuanian dishes. The restaurant was further down the castle on the peninsula. It was quaint and popular among the locals. Our bill came up to lt60.70 which was totally ok.

We walked back to the bus station and managed to catch the 4.07pm mini bus. It was really mini and I had to stand 30 minutes. .. almost.

All in all, a great first day in Lithuania. 

Goodbye

At around 5pm today, Shiro left. I was the only one who saw him breathing his last. He had been having breathing difficulty the whole day. When it happened, his tail suddenly moved upward. So did his head. I thought he was responding to treatment. I was wrong. I kept calling him but his eyes were already closing. He did not manage to close his eyes fully.

As I sat there looking at him, his last moments kept replaying in my head. All the signs pointing towards his impending death. Inability to close his eyes. Continuous gasp for air. Fleas leaving his body.

I watched dad bury him. It was drizzling. The rain started not so long after he left. Was he crying or was it god?

Now, I will forever regret my decision to try to save him. Every vet told me there's no hope. I was selfish and kept him suffering till his last second. I am the worst pet owner ever.

Losing hope

19 October

It was late afternoon when we took shiro to the vet in Taman Segar. He was lethargic and suffered from a loss of appetite. He appeared to have a fever too for the past few days. The vet assured us that he just had skin problem.

The following day, we noticed his right leg twitching. At that time, we thought there's worm in his stomach causing the movement. Dad did noticed a worm hanging behind him after we gave him deworming medicine.

Little did we know our nightmare was about to begin.

24 October

Shiro's condition worsened. Took him to the another vet in Taman Segar, the one who cured him of a virus when he was about a year old. We were told the virus came back. The vet could do nothing but to gave us antibiotics and medicine for seizure. If he recovered within a week, then he will be fine.

28 October

I got the news at about 3pm. Shiro had a seizure in the morning. Suddenly, I couldn't think. I rushed home and took him to another vet in the city centre. The nurse was stunned when she saw him. Then the vet came out and without even going near Shiro, he told us there's no chance of surviving. It had reached the acute phase. The vet looked at us, his eyes unforgiving. He gave us two options - to put him down (the more humane option) or to take him home.

29 October

I refused to give up and found a vet in Putra Heights who had done the NDV procedure. We rushed there. The vet was a very kind man. He looked at Shiro with sad eyes and delivered the bad news. They had little success with the treatment especially when the virus had already reached the nervous system. We were advised to keep him as comfortable as possible. But, the moment he can't eat anymore, we should put him down.

Throughout the car ride, Shiro tried to hold up his head to look out the window. If a dog was dying, would he look as alert as that?

When I wrote to Dr. Sears, he told me not to give up but to find someone who is willing to undertake the procedure.

30 October

We began our own treatment using vitamin C and nano silver. That morning, he could crawled out and stood up for awhile. There were progress.

31 October

Another seizure came.

1 November

Shiro was able to keep his head up to look at us. But there were no change to his twitching. Sometimes it was rapid, sometimes it slowed.

2 November

He laid on his side the whole day. The only signs that gave us hope was when he whine barked 3 times to get our attention to feed him. He was hungry and his appetite was improving. There were times when his twitching eased a little, allowing him to sleep. We kept disinfecting his surrounding and ensured that he was warm. I was worried bout his heavy breathing. We tried to keep his nose moist by putting aloe vera gel on top. At times, we used the colloidal silver for his nose, skin and foot.

What else can I do?

Passed an exam

Was panicking yesterday. Felt it was not good enough but in the end,  received good review.

"It was a superb presentation. It was punchy. What's different this time?"

Visiting the morning market

2 March 2013, Freezing

I am guessing that the temperature is around 3 degree Celsius. I had on 3 layers of clothing underneath my coat. Yet, the preparation was still insufficient for me to withstand the morning chill. It took awhile before a cab finally came.

The city looked serene at this hour. The driver attempted to introduce us to a sightseeing spot - the kabuki theatre. It took me awhile to get it. The ride was probably 15 min but cost ¥1, 880. At 4.30am, I thought I am the earliest. Upon being ushered into yhe building,  I realised that 60 slots had already been filled. I was informed later that I was lucky to get a slot at 4.30am because normally there will be none left. It must be the cold that hampered the crowd.

The wait was more than an hour. I was finally brought into the centre of activity at 5.50am. It was a short and cold journey. Traders were going on their business without regard for us,the tourists.

There was a narrow platform for the tourists to watch the actions from a safe distance. Safe for them to go about their business without interruption.  No flash allowed. The chefs could be seen inspecting the huge tuna. After a while,  I saw two or three men carrying bells got om their little stool. Once they have secured their position, the ringing of the bells began. Buyers gathered round the sections of their interest. The auctioneers began their cjants. The trade completed within minutes. I couldn't tell who was the lucky ones.after around 5 rounds, we were led out of the hall. It was problem 6
10am by then.

The market was huge. I got lost searching for the dry market. After some lost turns and a map, I found the place. It was fun looking at all the seafoods and vegetables on sale. Of course I could not resist making some purchases such as dried sakura, preserved ika, dried mushrooms and ika. even bought dried shrimps and anchovies.

Left the market around 8am without stopping for sushi. Was told that it's Overrated.

Last minute shopping

My trip ends today. As I sat in Narita waiting for the gate to open,  I thought of the week that had passed by. I kept asking myself what I did to deserve such fine friends. Yesterday's dinner and today's gave me a bit of clue.

Perhaps it was my willingness to help Hiroko in 2005 or perhaps it was my poor attempt at making Junko's trip to Malaysia in 2006 as exciting as possible.  Regardless, these people have become some of the most important people who have entered my life.

This morning, Junko made traditional breakfast. Funny when I found that even Hiroko does not know what is traditional breakfast. It was basically fried fish, rice, miso soup and natto. I didn't dare to eat the natto though.

As Junko has calligraphy class, I went to Piago on my own at 10.15am to buy matcha. Am rather proud that I managed to find my way around.

Left for airport before 12pm. Had a nice chat in the car. Unfortunately no time to take lunch together.  Wish she had allowed me to buy her lunch once :(

Parted at 1.30pm as she has another appointment.  Gonna miss Japan so much.

Shopping!

Silly me. Was wondering why the organiser was late till Bien mentioned that class starts at 9.30am today. Wasted half an hour waiting.

Largely uneventful day. Shared cab with two delegates from up north. Discovered one of them knows Cathy (it's a small world after all). Had healthy bento lunch. Wish there's the normal type of Jap food I am familiar with.

After class went to Tokyo Midtown to look for kitkat and other food stuffs. Didn't buy anything. Had better luck at Don Quijote (pronounced as don ki). Found the pilot frixion pens. There was even an advertisement playing at the display counter. Had a very patient staff to verified if the refillable I was looking at is a match for the pens I am getting. Even got him to show me how to refill :)

Dined at a yaki soba restaurant. The Filipino patron helped us to translate our order. Lucky day indeed. Had a most delicious tempura soba ever. The tempura was so fresh and juicy.

Dropped by a pet shop on the way back after spotting a humongous poodle. Apparently, it's a normal sized poodle. I am not sure what the tv has been feeding me now if that is considered normal.

Retired to bed early.

Back to fishland

It felt almost surreal to be back again after 6 years.

The flight was rather turbulence this time. I don't remember it being so in the last two times. Got a bit plane sick after that. Skipped supper as I really wanted to sleep. Unfortunately seat was not comfy despite being business. Legs felt cramp trying to adjust.

Passing immigration was a breeze. Probably due to the early morning arrival. Forgot to read the instruction email from JIMS. Felt a bit panicky. Luckily spotted KK's name in a list held by one lady. My name was not there. Imagine if I didn't know anyone in the list. I would have been really lost. We waited for the other passengers a bit. First person I strike up a conversation with was from Uzbekistan. Spotted KK shortly after but he doesn't seem to recognise me. Decided to say hi while we were lining up for the bus and he did remember. Probably I looked different with long hair now.

Ride to hotel was about 1.5 hours. Stopover at ANA to take a cab. Chose not to check in early to avoid paying the ¥10,000 extra.

After some surfing, decided to visit Ueno Park which I missed the last time. It was a nice but windy walk. Brrr. Decided to drop by the zoo and had a pleasant surprise. Flash your passport and you get 20% off! So, I only paid ¥480 instead of ¥600. First thing I saw was...Giant Panda! There were a lot of oohs and ahhs over shin shin and ri ri. Gotta say they are not as impressive in real life.

It was really fun looking at animals not found back home - penguins, kangaroos, Japanese salamander (nope, I don't think it's kawaii), ant eater (weird nose), aye aye (kawaii!). Was almost lost when I decided to back track to look for the kangaroos, the one animal I missed. Frankly, my favourite place is the warm houses for tropical animals. Temperature just nice for me. Also, I might have chose the wrong time for visiting open air places. Wind was just too strong and chilly.

Dropped by Ameyocho to find an eatery. Ended up in a shop called Aji something claiming to have no 1 ramen. I tried the miso ramen. Ok la. Still can't beat the tonkotsu ramen I had in LA.

Went back early to escape the chill. It was close to 6pm. Had to go out again when hotel informed me they ran out of adapter. Also coz I brought the wrong adapter. Sigh. Was directed to Don Quijote (??), a popular discount shop about 15 min away. Normally I don't mind walking but not with the wind. Arghh.

Retired to bed at 10pm.

Today, 6.30am (morning call)

Was down around 7.45 am for breakfast. Simple spread of salmon, rice, miso soup, scrambled eggs, croissant, bun, yogurt. A bit boring but I guess healthy and sufficient.

JIMS arranged for us to take taxi together. It was a short ride. But appreciated nonetheless given the windy day. Morning session went well with plenty of questions. Lunch was good with wonderful choice of fresh sushi. Yummy. A bit funny when speaker proposed a toast and no one had any drinks with them :P

Course ended slightly after 4pm. Discovered later that an earthquake hit honshu. Good thing I didn't feel it. Had it not been my friends asking out of concern, I wouldn't have found out.

Dined at a yaki-niku basement restaurant. Not bad.

As of today, I have 3 cuts on my right hand, two band aids. Should get prettier looking band aids. One was rather deep as I remembered seeing blood while in the subway yesterday. It became a bit unbearable before I decided to protect the wound.

http://tvnz.co.nz/world-news/magnitude-6-2-quake-jolts-japan-5353233

Humans everywhere

13 January 2013, 7am

Dragged myself out of bed to make an early trip to Wan Chai to buy egg tarts. Didn't manage to sleep well due to the noise and the fact that my feet is facing the bathroom. Also, was kept awake by the cold. At some point, my legs suffered from cramps as a result of trying to cuddle up to keep warm. Never realised it can be tiring.

The street was wet when I got down. Wondered if it rained the night before or perhaps it was the shopkeepers or government servants cleaning up the street.

It was only 7.30am but the MTR station was full of people as if it was a normal working day. Some are going to the morning market. Others I am not so sure. I do have my theory on this. More on the next post.

Did not have much problem finding Honolulu Coffee Tea House (having memorised the exterior of the shop as I can't read mandarin) although I did take the wrong turning. I can never understand how I always end up at the wrong exit. Bought some egg tarts at HKD6 each. Was so thrilled. Had one on the way to Tai Cheong. Pretty good except that the eggy part was rather sweet. Was disappointed to find that the shop has yet to open. Did not find information on the internet saying that the shop only opens at 9am on sundays!

Decided to try my luck and walked to Causeway Bay for the other branch. Figured that since the one in Wan Chai is a bakery express, the opening hour might differ. And so I walked and walked and walked. It was not difficult to find Jardine Bazaar. The problem was in locating the shop as I forgot to memorise the characters of the shop name. Asked a not-so-helpful lady and she pointed somewhere down the road. Asked another lady going to the market. In her extremely loud voice, she told me (after having corrected my pronunciation of Tai Cheong) that bakery doesn't open so early. Think she repeated like thrice. Thank you, I heard that loud and clear. She pointed me somewhere and yet I can't find it. Gave up upon realising I still had another 15 minutes to go.

Arrived back in Mong Kok at 9am. Sigh. Had fish porridge at Fuk Kee Congee. A few issues - (1) menu is in mandarin, (2) waiter had his finger in the porridge during serving. Ignore the second issue and the porridge was actually quite good.

Went back to Tim Ho Wan to take away the osmanthus flower jelly and bbq bun. For the first time, saw a long queue outside and it was not even 10am yet. Most were tourists. By the time the manager came out with his list, some were told to come back at 11.30am and others at a later time before they can be served. Wow. And the current numbers given were for before 3pm group. Wow. Had to wait 20-30 minutes for my order.

Decide later on that it was not worth the wait. The pretty osmanthus flower jelly became a glob of gooey stuffs :(

Rushed back to hostel to check out. Made it out in good time but just missed the A21 at the market station due to haste. Did not wait too long for the next one. Ride was boring.

Panicked upon discovering that there are two terminals. Saw some signs saying that MAS on 2. Decided that it meant terminal two. Big mistake. But good to learn later that most people were misled by those signs. Hah, it means something needs to be done. Officer at customer service counter was very kind. He took us to terminal 2. We thought we had to take the train and started settling in. He came back in to inform us that it's just on the other side! We used the train as a bridge. Ha ha ha.

Was horrified to discover that there are as many people in the airport as the city itself. There's just no peace and quiet in this little place. Signboards were confusing. No one at helpdesk to assist. Tsui Wah looked just like a normal cha chaan teng in the city, bustling with activity. I heard that the special butter bun is really good but I decided to go to the Traveller's Lounge instead. Also a mistake. Food was not great and there were too many people.

Being on the way back felt good...

260 steps and more

12 January 2013, 7am

Finally checked out from my "posh hotel". Decided to take the train from the Wan Chai Station just so I can look for Tai Cheong Bakery. Unfortunately, was a bit lost and ran out of time. Decided to hop on to the nearest MTR entrance.

Arrived at Tung Chung with plenty of time to spare. Hung out at Citygate to shelter from the cold weather out in the open. Went back to the cable car entrance only to discover a line has formed! It does pay to being kiasu. Bought the tickets from two sellers claiming to be from the tour agency. Was glad to discover that it was not a scam. Otherwise HKD120 down the drain (Original price: HKD135 if not mistaken).

The journey took around 25 minutes, taking us from mountain to mountain. Saw some hikers and boy, they were loud! The fog was thick. As we approached the destination, the fog thickened. Could hardly see the Big Buddha.

Ngong Ping Village was not what I imagined it to be. It was not real! I thought I had step into the HK-style Disneyland. Photo-taking was easy as there were not many tourists around. Went for breakfast at a little cha chaan teng, selling mountain water tau fu fa. Ordered the sesame soup, crunchy skin sausage and curry fishballs. Yummy! Especially the sesame soup.

Climbed the 260 steps to get a closer look of the Big Buddha. A grandma commented that there were only 250+ steps. Err...OK....I thought that's still a lot of steps to climb. Anyway, nothing great bout the view from top. It's actually harder to get a nice picture of the Big Buddha.

Went up the wisdom path. It was a long way (15 minutes walk) ahead through a mini wood. The first sign of civilisation we spotted was a rundown cha chaan teng, selling expensive teas. I think HKD25 per person. Passed a small plot of tea garden, entrance to the phoenix peak before spotting that the wisdom path is to our right. A bit funny as the path consisted of old tree trunks carved with religious words. No doubt an amazing feat.

Did some souvenir shopping, had a short break in an over-priced Japanese restaurant before ending our trip with another bowl of sesame soup and the crunchy skin sausage. Totally loved the food there.

Went back to get my luggage from the hotel. Realised that there's a cemetery and Sikh Temple next to it. Good thing I found out too late. Did some shopping along the way and found a good bargain. Yes, more winter clothing. Cheap ones. Was totally exhausted carrying my luggages through steps.

Checked in to Ah Shan Hostel. Was horrified by the size of my room. Just enough for a single bed, small table and then there was the ensuite bathroom. Lady tried to switch on aircon. Took her numerous tries. Very interesting technology but seriously I don't need aircon. It's too cold.

Aborted plans to dine at Yung Kee after learning of the long queues on weekend. Tried Sham Tseng Chan Kee Roast Goose instead. So-so only. Went to Yung Kee to take away the cured meats and preserved eggs. Spent more than HKD500 and paid in cash. The takeaway counter does not allow credit card unless for purchases more than HKD1,000. I wonder why. Cashier was really unfriendly but the packing waiter was nice.

Went to sleep at 11ish, having done my research for the next day.

Retail therapy!

11 January 2013, 8.15am

Last day of serious business. Felt rather miserable bout having to skip breakfast. Didn't have time to grab anything before catching the shuttle.

On the way up to 55th floor, the participants had a silly encounter. Upon reaching the floor, the elevator voice announced the arrival on the floor. And then she continued with "the lift is going down". We were all shocked when the lift didn't open. Instead we took a trip back down! When the door opened, the staff who were waiting for the lift were surprised to see a liftful of foreigners (I was well hidden from their views). We had a really good laugh as no one knew what went wrong. The organiser was surprised to find us arriving later than him. After all, this lift has only one destination!

Was in for a pleasant morning when breakfast was served today. The cookies were nice. Had some scrambled eggs, sausages and tomato. Finally, my good day had arrived. Strangely, I continued to nod off during the presentations. I don't understand why I feel so tired all the time lately. Perhaps it was the rushing around. Or stress induced.

The day went by smoothly. Took some notes down. Met more people. Gave my last card to the rep from RBA. Am glad those cards lasted so long. Must remember to bring more to the next trip.

6pm

Chose the wrong time to travel again. When the third train came, found ourselves being pushed into some magically appeared empty space. Interesting experience but not one I wanna go through everyday.

Went back to Tim Ho Wan for dinner. We liked the dimsum too much. And osmanthus flower jelly of course. But this time, we had to wait close to 35 minutes before getting a seat. Our number was 211 and the current number on call was 201. Shouldn't have picked dinner time. Ended up sharing table with 3 Japanese who ordered a mountain of food, like almost every item on the menu. This time we were more modest and picked only those we like. The bill came up to HKD129.

On the way back to hotel, passed by a shop called K.A.T on Matheson Street. Went in and discovered a gem! Bought 3 pieces of winter clothing item and came up to HKD597 from the original cost of HKD1,887! And the sale only started today. I was really lucky.

...sneaky suspicion that...

10 January 2013, 8.15am

Had the remaining gai daan chai for breakfast. Still crunchy. Craved for more.

Was one of the early ones to board the shuttle. Arrived at 2IFC in less than half an hour. Impressed that there's no traffic on the road.

Seminar on Level 55. The morning went by slowly. I kept nodding off. Had dimsum for tea break. Nice. Lunch was buffet. Was not too impressed with the food. Continued to nod off in the afternoon (can't be jetlag!). But occasionally woke up to find interesting presentations. I concluded that it's the speakers not me.

Dinner at the HK Overseas Bankers Club on the 43rd floor of Gloucester Tower, short walk from 2IFC. Pretty impressive food and view. We had Room Dragon 1 to ourselves. 3 tables in total. Sneaked a few photos but not that of the (now my favourite dessert) osmanthus flower jelly.

Baked stuffed sea whelk, double boiled chicken soup with snow fungus

Barbecued Peking duck

Central - Admiralty - Causeway Bay - TST

9 January 2013, 7am

Woke up to find myself in a chilly room. Definitely had to drag myself out of bed to get ready for the long day ahead. But first of all, it was settling some work in office. I longed for the day when an overseas trip is really just an overseas trip. I blamed it on the internet.

9am

It was so cold out there! Good thing I had a scarf. Got lost while trying to locate the Wan Chai station. Ended up in Causeway Bay. On the way, found Under Bridge Crab. Contemplated having it for dinner. Continued to contemplate along the way.

The journey to IFC2 took an hour. Not really the MTR fault. Rather it was me getting lost. The building was pretty impressive (especially the lift). At the registration (third time lucky as I kept going to the wrong concierge), was told to go up to 55 and then changed lift to 79. What??? Change lift??? Reminded me of the complicated KLCC. First meeting went well. AM was very friendly. As for his assistant, he looked real familiar. He mentioned being involved in SEG few years back. I wonder if we might have really met during those times.

Second meeting also went well. Was early and hence, ushered into the waiting room with an almost amazing view of the harbour. Almost because it was a rather foggy day. Later, I was told that it's pollution. The meeting went a little over time. When RY opened the door, my friend was already waiting for me outside the meeting room. It had been many years since we met. Frankly, I met her before she had a baby and now her daughter is in primary school!

Jasmin was really considerate. She booked a table in Victoria City Restaurant in Citic Tower which is right next to the new government building to ensure that I have ample time to get to the next appointment. We took a cab. Jasmin remarked that I brought her luck as it was her first time not having to queue for one. The ride was short and it cost a little over HKD20. At the restaurant, we over-ordered. Dimsum was good.

Steamed roll with yau char kwai inside

(L-R) shanghai xiu long bao, har gau, custard bun, vegetable dumpling

The last meeting concluded close to 3.30pm. By then, I was exhausted. Went straight back to hotel to take a rest before going out for dinner. Original plan was to visit a shop in Lockhart Road as recommended by the hotel. Ended up in Mak's Noodle having stumbled upon it. The noodles, shrimp wanton (crunchy!) and beef (HKD45) were really good. Thought the portion looked extremely small though. Sampan porridge (HKD33) was just so-so.

Train ride at 6ish was a nightmare. Waited for the fourth train before being able to board to TST. The walk to avenue of stars was another long one. Weather was too cold for us to enjoy the walk. Bought shredded squid (HKD30) to warm up. Symphony of light at 8pm was a let down too. On the way back, got lost and took the wrong turning to get back into MTR (arghhhh).


Stopped by a roadside stall outside Times Square to buy gai daan chai (HKD15).

Sardined in HK

8 January 2013, 6am
Journey began. Realised the CIMB promo for noodles shop had ended. Found that lounge is quiet before 8am. Hence, I got myself a nice seat. Disappointed that there's no porridge. Spent time working from netbook. Sigh.

Slept most of the time through the flight. Uneventful. Had omelette cheese. Nice. Slept. Guy next to me was annoyed with the lack of choice. Air steward felt bad and gave him some crackers with coffee (which could not even be served till turbulence over). Fussy eater.

12.55pm

Immigration was fuss free. Guide from HK Tourism Board was very helpful. Think every airport should have them. Opted for the hotel coach (HKD140) which gets me directly to the Cosmopolitan Hotel. There were only 3 of us in the coach.

The journey was boring. Sun was shining brightly (18 degrees outside). There were mountains on my right (huh?) and sea on my left.  Tried to see if I can spot the Buddha but I guess it's on another side. As soon as we see sights of buildings, traffic began. Virtually standstill at the cross-harbour tunnel. That's when I began to regret opting for the bus instead of airport express (cheaper by the way).

Took more than an hour to arrive. Boring.

3.30pm

Left hotel to Mong Kok. Had trouble finding the MTR. Luckily overheard a kid asking his parent why are they taking MTR. Tailed them :P

It was not difficult to get around with MTR. The problem started when I had to locate a specific place. Ended up waiting in a Broadway (diagonal from Citibank) that is at another road from the right Broadway. Isk. Such a waste of time.

Toured Ladies' Street (Tung Choi Street). Nothing interest me. Hoping to get some nice and unique souvenirs. No luck so far. Decided to head for dinner (It was only 5.30pm).

Ended up in Fa Yuen Street without realising. Found Fei Jie Street Snacks. Long line. Decided to skip to save space for dimsum. Walked to the next street and found our destination :)

Tim Ho Wan (Kwong Wa Street)

It was really not hard to spot the shop. There was a line. Waited a bit before receiving a number (164). The next number we heard being called out was 157. Not too bad. Spent waiting time to tick off the dimsum we wanna order. Luckily, someone understood mandarin. We were ushered into the shop within minutes. Efficient! Had to share table with a couple. Doesn't matter. The shop was really tiny with perhaps 5-6 rows of tables stacked nearby.

Food came quickly. No choice given for tea. They just poured whatever was in the pot. Ok, that cost HKD2 per person, non-refillable if not mistaken since no one bothered to fill up my glass for me. First to arrive was rice dumpling. Doesn't look appetising but taste good! Very different from the ones back home. Next was a type of chiu chow dimsum. OK but weird as there were a mixture of stuffs inside including nuts. I like the skin though. Next up was har gau. Nothing fantastic. The fried thing (can't remember the name now) was pretty interesting. Then we had the chee cheong fun with char siew. I think I still prefer with belacan as the side. Siu Mai (with prawn inside) was also so-so only. The BBQ pork bun was amazing. Love the taste. But had to share as I was pretty full. Enjoyed the osmanthus flower jelly too. Felt that the size is too small. Can't even describe the taste now. Didn't manage to try the water chestnut jelly. Had to takeaway. Bill came up to HKD181. We over-ordered for 3 persons. And it's only the first night.

Visited Ah Shan Hostel on Broadway Building for awhile. Room 817 (double) was tinier than mine but clean. The elevators were interesting. One for even, one for odd. From top can only press down. If you want to go to another higher floor, go down to G first before you can move up.

7.00pm (roughly)
Left hostel. Weather getting colder. Mainly wind. Easy to find mtr but hard to get into one especially at Admiralty. Had initial success following google map but got lost at Wood Road. Dead end. Started to panic. Retraced steps. Took another road to Morrison Hill Road. Luckily remembered the Golden Dragon Sculpture.

8.20pm
Arrived back in hotel, logged onto internet, writing in a cold room. No idea why temperature can't be set higher.