Following up on my recent post on addressing the social stigma of HIV/AIDS, I would like to talk about syphilis - one of the lesser evils in the family of sexually transmitted diseases (STI). This, after coming along with a friend to a clinic to get a second dose injection for its treatment by which I was informed rather painful. 

Before I even begin to talk about syphilis, I'd like to emphasize on the awareness of STI in general, and how we should all play a part in dissolving the social stigma concerning STI. 

1. Wherever you go, you should not be judged by your sexual behaviour.
2. Give advice willingly, and you owe it to yourself to be informed.
3. Ask as many questions as you need to - do not assume. And make sure you get answers that you understand.

What is syphilis and what causes it?

Syphilis is an infectious disease classified under sexually transmitted disease. It is caused by a germ called Treponema pallidum. While the symptoms of a syphilis is difficult to diagnose, untreated for a long time it can cause complications to the brain, the cardiovascular system and even death. 

Syphilis can infect both men and women, and they both can pass it on. An interesting fact about syphilis is that it is known with another name: The Great Imitator. This, because it has so many symptoms, many of which look like symptoms for other diseases. (This was how I was told by this friend of mine: "I have the great imitator." I didn't know anything about syphilis back then so I just gave him a blank stare!)

Speaking of passing it on, how is it spread?

As mentioned earlier, syphilis is a sexually transmitted disease, therefore any man or women who leads an active sexual lifestyle is at risk. However, sex is not the only way syphilis is passed on. 

• It can be passed on unknowingly from the infected person as the symptoms are difficult to differentiate from other disease. An infected person may not know he/she is infected for years and continue to live a healthy life.
• Direct skin contact with the syphilis sore or syphilis rash can lead to infection. 
• Direct blood transfusion can also pass on the germ that causes syphilis. 
• It is also possible for a pregnant mother to pass on the disease to her unborn baby. 

You cannot catch syphilis from kissing, hugging, sharing baths or towels, swimming pools, toilet seats or from sharing cups, plates or cutlery. Just as the HIV virus, saliva and urine do contain the germ that causes syphilis, but not in enough number for it to become an infecting agent. 

What are the signs and symptoms?

As aforementioned, it is difficult to diagnose syphilis from symptom alone. My friend found out by chance doing an annual medical checkup in a specialist hospital. I was later informed - and this is important information - that there is no exact way to test how long has the infection been there. 

However, syphilis can develop in three stages:

1. the first stage: called primary syphilis
2. the second stage: called secondary syphilis
3. the third or latent stage: called tertiary syphilis.

Primary Syphilis

This is the earliest stage and generally occurs from 10 days to 3 months after infection. It typically causes a painless ulcer on the genitals.

Secondary Syphilis

This is the second stage of syphilis. Many different symptoms can occur (see later) but usually last several weeks. They can, however, come and go for up to two years.

Tertiary Syphilis

This is the final stage of syphilis. Untreated after many years, it may start to cause very serious damage to the heart, brain, eyes, other internal organs, bones and nervous system.

Arguably, there is another stage between secondary and tertiary syphilis called latent syphilis. Latent means 'hidden'. This occurs after the symptoms of secondary syphilis have cleared. With latent syphilis there are no symptoms. Latent syphilis can last for many many years. It is divided into two types:

• Early latent syphilis: This lasts for a year or so and the infected persons are still infectious - that is, they can pass syphilis on to other people.
• Late latent syphilis: About two years after secondary syphilis has cleared the infected person can become non-infectious and are no longer able to pass syphilis on to others.

If the symptoms are difficult to diagnose, then how will I know if I am infected?

The only way to be certain is to be tested for syphilis. Most government hospitals and clinics do run these tests, and - get this - they don't mind running the tests for you even if you look and feel healthy as a bell! So go ahead, if:

• you, or a partner, think you might have symptoms
• you have recently had unprotected sex with a new partner
• you, or a partner, have had unprotected sex with other partners
• a sexual partner tells you they have a sexually transmitted infection
• you have another sexually transmitted infection
• you are pregnant or planning a pregnancy

go get tested. 

What happens during the test?

• The doctor or nurse will ask you to give a blood sample. 
• They will do a genital examination. 
• For women this may include an internal examination of the vagina and; 
• For men an examination of the penis, foreskin and urethral opening (where urine comes out). 
• Both men and women may have the anus examined internally and externally. 
• The doctor or nurse will also check the body generally for any rashes or warty growths. They may check the mouth and throat area. 
• They will use a swab to collect a sample of fluid from any sores. 

This only takes a few seconds and is not painful, though it may be uncomfortable for a moment. 

If I have syphilis, how will I be treated?

Just like another human being, generally speaking. Medically though, because syphilis is a germ infection, it can be readily treated with antibiotics. Antibiotic injections are the usual treatment. Benzylpenicillin is the antibiotic usually used. This kills the germs (bacteria) and prevents the disease from progressing any further. The injections are given intramuscularly (IM), usually into the buttock (this may explain why my friend adamantly asked me to drive >.<) . A single dose can be given for primary and secondary syphilis. Later stages may need a course of three injections, at weekly intervals. Neurosyphilis usually requires more frequent, daily doses for a couple of weeks.

What if I am allergic to penicillin?

Well, you're screwed. Or rather, mother nature screwed you. I'm kidding, of course. Other antibiotics are sometimes used if you are allergic to penicillin. Azithromycin is often used in this situation.

What if I am pregnant?

Well your husband must've screwed you up well, didn't he? OMG hahaha! I'm kidding again. If syphilis is found during your pregnancy, you can be given treatment safely. This can help prevent the baby from becoming infected and there is no risk of the treatment harming the baby. If the syphilis is untreated you may pass the infection to your baby in the uterus. This can lead to miscarriage or stillbirth, or the baby being born with syphilis.

Wrap up

Something to keep in mind if you have an active sexual lifestyle, especially with multiple partners, do keep safe. Abstinence from sex is the surest way to not contract any STIs, however in cases where sex just cannot be avoided use protections, and use them correctly. 

If you are diagnosed with syphilis or any other STIs, don't fret. It's not the end of the world yet. You just have to live it a little differently. And I'd like to keep thinking that the possibilities of sex is not completely and entirely shut - just take it to inform your engaging partner of your condition, and only go forth with mutual consent. Again, abstinence from sex is probably the best, but in situations where sex just can't be avoided and must be done, do use protection and use them correctly. 

Another note to be highlighted is that just because you were once cured of syphilis does not mean you cannot catch it again. Be safe, use protection. On a final note, I want to adopt a new slogan for anyone living with STD:

You're not sick, you just have a condition. 

Until next time, ciao!

Yesterday wasn't much of a productive day at the gym compared to the few days before. Only ran about 1 km, and that took 15 minutes already. Probably the 2% gradient on the treadmill made it all the more challenging, but I did not enjoy the run very much. Then again, as my former fitness partner said, a bad run is one where you didn't run at all. 

So after the run, I decided to walk around the facility, and ended up on the rooftop garden with another member. The view was quite amazing. I could see myself on a relax, on a breezy day, sitting on the patio reading my book. Lemme show you:

The Rooftop Garden on the first floor.

Stairs from the ground floor access.

A clear view of the Waterpark.

The setting sun. I love this picture most. It's an original, no edits..

More view of the Waterpark

The outdoor garden is also a nice place to sit and relax.

More views of the outdoor garden.

The garden extends to the badminton hall. 

Of course after distracting myself with the view, I went back to working on the weights. There's another landscape area near the badminton hall, but I'll save it for another adventure another day.

I made a note to come to Merdeka Plaza today and have a look at #hivkuchingawarenessday campaign. It's high time that awareness campaigns like this be held more and more - and to add a value to it so that it achieve its intended purpose. For me, personally, this time, this campaign, is just like any other campaigns is well organised, well coordinated and well executed. I just wished our audience would be more of an active participator even if just cheering for the DJ and emcee, rather than passive onlookers. 

The Event

In the effort to raise awareness of HIV as well as other STD, #HIVKCHAWARENESSDAY is a community event supported by Sarawak AIDS Concern Society (SACS). According to the project manager of the society Rahmah Nicholls, discrimination against AIDS patient did not come from the government, but rather from the society as a whole. She further stated that "Due to the stigma placed on them, those reputed don’t go to the government hospital. This is a difficult area for surveillance" (BorneoPost Online, Feb 21, 2014)

The Sarawak AIDS Concern Society was initially set up in 1998. As a non-profit organisation, its main objective is to address AIDS related issues in Sarawak through the dissemination of information on the disease. It also aims to protect the rights of those living with AIDS as well as to support the families of those affected by AIDS.  

The Objective

1. To reject myths and misconceptions and fight HIV/AIDS related discrimination.
2. To raise awareness on sexually transmitted diseases and help young people to understand the dangers of the disease better
3. To change the “passive cultural’ through education on social environment. 

Perhaps to aid the first objective, I wish to enlighten those not in the know that HIV and AIDS are, in fact, two different conditions related to one another. HIV, or Human Immunodeficiency Virus, is a virus that infects a human through close contact with HIV infected body fluids - blood, semen and vaginal secretion are some of the examples of such body fluids. It does not, however, infect through saliva and sweat. Persons who has HIV are referred to HIV positive, and without is referred to as HIV negative. According to statistics, 169 cases of HIV positive cases has been reported in Sarawak in 2011. The number decreases to 147 cases in the following year, while in 2013, just last year, the number jumps to 190 reported cases. Do remember that these are reported cases. In many instances, persons who are HIV positive shows no particular symptom and live a healthy life until diagnosed.

AIDS, on the other hand, is a classification of the persons who are HIV positive with their CD4 count falling below 200. CD4 is a type of protein that is found on the surface of immune cells - the lower the count, the lower the body's resistance to infection and diseases, and the slower the body recovers from them. AIDS patients can also be classified when they acquire HIV-related infection such as tuberculosis (TB) as well as other various infections (honestly, the scientific names just escapes me).

In short, while the terms HIV/AIDS are commonly used together, a person may be HIV positive but never developed AIDS even towards the end of his life, but if a person is classified as an AIDS patient, his is therefore HIV positive. 

The Social Stigma

It has always been a society ruling that persons living with HIV/AIDS are sinners by default. Such prejudice against them is so thick in the society that we live in that it's almost tangible. Added with the singular knowledge that this is a "gay's disease", the persons living with the condition is condemned for the rest of his life, and even after his passing. 

This is not completely true, though. In fact, it is completely false. Numbers of new HIV/AIDS cases involving heterosexual sex is increasing in the United States. Closer to home, in Sarawak, state Health Director Datu Dr Zulkifli Jantan told The Borneo Post that most of the reported cases are male and transmission was from a heterosexual relationship. Such stigma and prejudice is unjust and barbaric, and should be purged from the society. 

Community Awareness and Support

Events such as these: #hivkchawarenessday, small as it may be, is a great start and provides continuity in the support of persons living with HIV/AIDS and those affected by it. It might be a small move, but I've always been a believer in the saying Rome wasn't built in a day. It makes me sad to admit that I am one of those few affected by HIV/AIDS, having made privy to the secret that the community believes should be kept between four walls and closed doors.

It was also the missing element in the campaign that was organised by SACS. No, I am not asking for those living with the condition and those affected by it to come forth and announce to the world - though I am not against that as well if it's to raise awareness. The campaign only showcased one side of the story - prevention. It is better than cure, but to those already living with it and to those affected by it, their input and contribution is just as valuable.

We all have a story to tell, and theirs are extraordinary. Once made privy, instead of pity or sorry, you suddenly gain a higher sense of understanding and a totally different perspective of life. The value that visitors take home with them even after just being a passive bystander is what I would like to see.

How? is the question to ask. In this era where communication is supported by technology, I am quite surprised to find that the event did not have it's own Facebook page. But that's on the promotion side. I believe Plaza Merdeka has very good and diverse traffic. Like I said earlier, the value that the community can take home is much more worthwhile in achieving the objective of the awareness campaign.

I look forward to an awareness campaign whereby visitors can engage with the persons living with HIV/AIDS and the persons affected by it through multimedia interaction should there be a need to protect the identities. Audio and visual recordings, two way interaction through multimedia applications, or even a creative representation of the daily life of persons living with HIV/AIDS can effectively show how their lives are no different than ours. That way, perhaps we can address the social stigma that was imposed to them, and remove the stone hard prejudice against them once and for all. 

Here are some of the photos I managed to snap during the event.

The Box

Hehe.. This is a new topic to me. I was bored out of my mind earlier while my other half goes out and about her businesses (trust me, she has plenty.. Sorry luv..) So I decided to go out window shopping. Eventually, I ended up in one of Watson's outlets. I was thinking of inspecting just about every items they have on the shelves - until I bumped into this little kit. 

It is what it says it is (heehh..??) Grooming has always been my forte. Hair is a whole book of issues altogether, and sideburns is a whole chapter by itself - I can never get them to the even length and thickness - do much so that I'd leave them to grow in until my next haircut. I've always thought of getting myself a small electric shaver or something like that but never got around to get it (procrastination is the mother here). 

Anyways, this kit seems handy and appropriate, I didn't even question myself do I really need to buy it? hahaha! Now let's see what's inside..

Nice packing >.<

1. The battery operated unit with default nose and ear trimmer blades, interchangeable. 

2. 9 interchangeable cutting lengths from 0.5 to 16 mm

3. 2 adjustable cutting guides allowing for 8 different lengths

4. A 5-inches barber comb, fine and medium tooth

5. A cleaning brush

6. A holding base

I haven't tried it out yet for two main reasons - I only have a vague idea on how to operate it and I just got my hair cut - sideburn trimmed and all -  a couple of days ago. 

Nonetheless, I'm a little more confident about keeping sideburns, as well as a goatee now that I have something proper to maintain it with. We'll see how it goes from here >.<

The unit and interchangeable accessories

The unit assembled in it's base

If you think being a girl is tough (when it comes to grooming) guys also has the same problem. Difference is that girls have to do the whole routine every single time while guys will probably groom to details maybe once a week or so. With this kit, I dare say it makes things a lot smoother >.< 

Day in and day out, days and days gone by, I find myself swept away by the tides of time. Barely having any time just to sit down and write a post. Couldn't steal an hour or two just running my imagination over the chapters of a book. Tending less and less to the friends I miss all too much.

A good rest was well earned, and rested I did at BB Bunkers, Damai Central. A fresh change from the typical hotel getaway, BB Bunkers offers a hostel-style place to stay (hey, they didn't come up with the name 'Bunkers' just for the sake of a name, did they?). With all basic amenities well built at an affordable rate, one can just dump their luggage and start enjoying the nature straightaway without much hassle. 

And boy did I enjoy myself. Credits to BB Bunkers, along with co-organizers Damai Central and Escobar for hosting the Bloggers Night out! Not only did they invite us bloggers, but we also get to bring a guest of our own too! Much fun!

Honestly, after a helluva week at work, a break like this is just in the nick of time. I arrived at Damai Central just in time for dinner at Escobar. I managed to just catch up with fellow bloggers I met almost a year ago at the Rainforest World Music Festival 2013, snapped a few shots and popped my head into some of the amenities available in BB Bunkers before making my way to dinner. Owh the food was very delish. What's even more funny tho, is that when the food arrived, everybody tried to sneak a picture or two of each dish before they were all enjoyed. At first, everyone was shy, barely catching the macro shots of the food - but when we all realized that most of us are bloggers and we all will want good food shots on our blogs, the shyness evaporated and it was as if "NOBODY TOUCH THE FOOD! WE NEED TO GET PICTURES! THIS IS SPARTA!!" kind of moment (well obviously I exaggerated but nonetheless, it was hilarious to be in that situation!)

Later that night was when things got interesting. Because of the configuration the 'pods' in BB Bunkers, there is very little privacy. If you're looking for a quiet getaway - honestly, you're looking at the wrong place. If you're not into mingling with others and prefer to be left in your own peaceful and quiet self, this isn't the place for you. But, if you're looking to meet new and random people, spend the whole night awake chit-chatting and merry-making, boy you couldn't be any closer! BB Bunkers, as the name suggests, offers 'pods' as oppose to rooms. 

Pod Types and Configurations

1 x Family Pod (1 x double bed & 1 x sofa bed)

6 x Double Pod (1 x double bed)

2 x Single Pod (1 x single bed)

2 x Twin Pod (2 x single bed)

3 x Triple Pod (3 x single bed)

1 x Dorm Pod (5 x single bed)

Rates

Weekdays: Single bed (in any pod) : RM50 Double Pod : RM80 Family Pod : RM120 Entire Venue : RM1200

Weekends: Single bed (in any pod) : RM60 Double Pod : RM100 Family Pod : RM150 Entire Venue : RM1500

RWMF 2014: Single bed (in any pod) : RM110 Double Pod : RM180

Damai Central as the co-organizer lined up the activities for us to try out. At first I opted for jungle trekking - but considering the drizzle and that most of my fellow bloggers signed up for the bicycle ride, I jumped ship and joined them instead. I can't remember when was the last time I rode a bicycle, but it was so very worth it! A few runs up and down the hills, we arrived at Kampung Santubong, after visiting the tomb of Sultan Tengah, the first and last Sultan of Sarawak. That hour and a half, about 10 km ride in the drizzling rain made me forget about the troubles I was carrying and even though I was completely and utterly exhausted by the time I got back, I was completely refreshed! I managed to get some spheres too! 

BB Bunkers | Damai Central | Pantai Puteri | Klinik Kesihatan Kampong Santubong 

Photo Gallery by QuickGallery.com 

If you're planning ahead to attend the Rainforest World Music Festival 2014 this coming June, BB Bunkers is definitely a good choice. It is strategically located just opposite of the main entrance to Sarawak Cultural Village where the annual international music festival is held every year. Or if you're just looking for a simple night out with some outdoor activities, do book ahead. You'll find almost all your needs met - from 24 hours 7-Eleven convenience store just next door, Medan Food Court, Bayridge Seafood Restaurant, Escobar, Movie Night, to kayaking, bicycle ride, jungle trekking or a good visit to Sarawak Cultural Village! All-in-all, a great experience. 

classy  .  chic  .  cosy

BB Bunkers

Unit C1 Damai Central 

Pantai Damai Santubong 

93050 Kuching Sarawak

T : +608.AT.HOTEL (+6082846835)

F : +60.82.846835

E : talk2us@bbbunkers.com

W : www.bbbunkers.com

Note : 

* All information is correct at the time of post. 

* Some photos courtesy of credited photographers :
Lets ngerepak ... with Tia

NTGravity

PreciousMad Photography

First of all, IF there are any spelling errors a.k.a typos, please forgive me. I'm a little tired from work - brain is basically so dead that even zombies would lose appetite! >.<

Last Sunday, after little dilly-dallying during lunch, me and my friends (a brother) included decided to go to the beach. The weather was just fine, a little windy but the sun was hiding behind the clouds.. PERFECT day to spend at the beach.. 

I can't remember when was the last time I went to the beach. To be honest, the drive turns me off. Yeah yeah, it's only half-an-hour or so according to some people... still, the road was bumpy... aaannnndddd.... if you happen to drive behind a slow driver, it can be a "dangerous" drive.. 

aaaaaaannnyyyywwaaaayysssss... we got there nonetheless.. and snapped a whole lot of pictures! This is my favourite!

Took it with Android SphereCam.. you can view the sphere here. 

SphereCam may not work properly on mobile devices. I suggest you go to your desktop and enjoy some of the spheres I took there instead.. 

An almost 360 Panorama of D'Cove

A new attraction : Whale Bone!

Ice Cream Goyang in the making! 

More spheres can be viewed here and here. These, however, are experimental and are epic fails!! hahaha!

Cheerss!! >.<

P/S : Sorry for the external links to the spheres.. I can't seem to be able to find out how to embed them into the post.. >.<

Tag me if you can!! Hahaha! It was very random when a friend suddenly said "Let's play laser tag!!". There was only four of us at home that day, and so we all agreed. Laser tag is a new "in" thing in Kuching - having the first ever located in CityOne Megamall called Laser Raiders. 

Laser Raiders feature a 5,000 sq. ft. multilevel arena, and from what I can see, is a successful attempt to introduce a new, fun, and (somewhat) healthy indoor activity to Kuchinglites and visitors alike. According to the info, Laser Raiders Kuching has the best and largest in East Malaysia!! WOW! (then again, it is the only one so far, so yes, they can claim this title until...)

The game in itself in intense - added with special fog and glow effects, laser lighting and dark arena, each game, or mission, lasts roughly 10 minutes depending on the game, or mission type. And apparently, there are plenty to choose from ranging from beginner  to expert, for example basic individual shoot-and-tag with unlimited ammo and life, to Partners, Gladiator, Fugitive, and even Capture the Flag. Great platform for team-building activities. 

Being beginners, we tried the individual shoot-and-tag mission. Since there were only four of us, we were grouped together with about 6 more people to make it a party of 10. A note : it was a bad idea to wear a light-colored long sleeve - I was so easy to spot I ended up being last in the scoreboard. (well that, and I have bad aim AND practically blind in the dark). Still, it was a fun session!

Lemme show you some parts of the arena : (photo's from Groupon) 

Yesterday was a fun day! The ending tho, was not so much. After a day out with my brother and sister - splurging out shopping for new 2014 wears, I decided - since I've already paid for it - to go to the gym. The thought of going by myself is unnerving - the only reassurance was that it is an exclusive gym and not many people joined. Furthermore, there are two distinct gym facilities - one outdoor for those hardcore muscle builders - the other indoor for the casual fitness.

Yeap. Not exactly as part of a new year resolution - I decided to go without that crap this year - I signed up for my first gym membership! Hoorraaahh!!! Kinesis Wellness @ Stampark Place is what I signed up for - with facilities including cardio equipments, strength equipments, fitness programs and group exercises, steam baths or sauna, hot shower, towels and lockers, member's lounge, rooftop garden aaaannnnddd three swimming pools (one kids wading pool, a gradient pool and an Olympic pool) complete with poolside facilities like the poolside cafe and function hall. 
 Arriving just after sunset, the place was practically deserted, save for the pool. I had NO IDEA what I was gonna do! In my head, I'd like to get some cardio in, considering I have not been jogging for quite some time since I started work. Maybe a little chest, then abs, then a bit of a weight lifting with the dumbells. Then, before leaving I wanna jump into the pool. 

So I went into the locker room, changed, put my stuffs away. Then the questions flood in. What are the gym ethics like here? Wait.. there's not instructions on the machines! The machines look different than those I'm used to. What do this machine do? And how do I operate that machine? Where is the bench press? 

What is the pool etiquette? Can I just wear shorts or am I required to wear tights? How deep is the deeper end of the gradient pool? Do I bring my change of clothes out to the pool or can I walk into the indoor changing room? Then I'd most probably be dripping wet! Owh no, I didnt bring flip flops - all I had was shoes! Shoes! Owh no, I didn't bring spare socks! 

What's the etiquette in the changing room and locker room? Would it be weird if I were to be barefooted? Would it be offensive if I wore just towels into and out of the shower? 

Thus, I hate going to the gym by myself. Those little things that some people find very natural is almost awkward for me! I ended up running on the treadmill for 45 minutes, showered awkwardly and then left. Would've been nice to have a company, no? I suppose I'll have to survive on my own. It's almost like an adventure - learning the etiquettes, the machines and the locations of facilities on my own! Looking forward to more blunders! hahahaha!

LOL! Coming from a guy, yeap, that is rather uncommon. But a facial treatment is not limited to the ladies. Us gentlemen would also want to put a little effort into it. Just remember, beauty is only skin deep, and however handsome or fair or clear skin one may have, it will fade over time. That being said, I know mine has aged much too fast. 

It did tool a minimal coaxing on my part to get my (ehem ehem.. I hope she reads this >.<) significant other to actually sign up for a facial treatment, but we agreed almost a month ago to purchase the Michelle Lazar Antioxidant skin treatment - Facial, Eye and Neck (the last bit was more of a tap-tap on the shoulder but I'll get to it in a bit).

After much procrastination and failed booking because the place - Michelle Lazar - was apparently very popular and is almost always booked - we were finally able to get a slot at 5pm today. I was warned earlier that it would hurt - like h*ll - but I guess it slipped my mind. She warned me again as we went out for lunch and just chilled the afternoon off waiting for the appointment - and I told her that if she, one with a fair skin and small pores (yikes, I'm using the word "pores" now) said that it hurts, I should be in excruciating pain considering I have pores the size of the craters on the moon!

And guys, lemme just tell you this. It f*ckin HURTS like MAD! The beautician was kind enough to sort-of walk me through the process - informing me "I'm going to wash your face now" and "Close your eyes, I'm applying the eye treatment" and so-on. That was nice - enjoyable even, but when she got to the piercing and unblocking the pores, it was nightmare for me! I lost count how many "Ouch!" I let out! (Kinda shows how bad my skin really was.. ~.~"). When I glanced over on her side, at one point I caught her dozing off. Apparently, for someone who was a little reluctant at first seemed to be enjoying herself! HAHA!

After the piercing and unblocking of pores tho, the session got much much better (and no, it didn't really hurt that much.. I was exaggerating as always.. haha!). We rather enjoyed the face massage and masks, and the cleansing towards the end. Then the neck treatment - I was half expecting a neck and shoulder massage - but instead got a firm but gentle beating on the neck and shoulders with the palms of their hands which lasted for 5, maybe 10 seconds or so. 

All-in-all, it was a good session., and we both agreed to go again if and when we have the time and budget. For me tho, this is one thing to cross off my want-to-do list. 

Respect, Relax, Respond. That is my most general motto. I've had the most unfortunate turn of event playing Ingress one night. I was at the Kuching Waterfront area. On any night, the crowd would be buzzing from between 6 to 11pm. I got there at about 8. It was drizzing a little bit, which was probably why the usual crowd was scarce. Even the buskers along the pavement sat and talked in their groups instead of singing their hearts out. 

I planned to make a couple of rounds of hacks that night. Halfway through, I was stopped by a random guy who wreaked of alcohol. I don't remember doing anything that attracts attention to myself. I didn't have my earphones as I fear I might miss any sound that alerts me of danger, I kept my phone in my hand and eyes up ahead where I was going. Somehow this drunk guy zeroed in on me and began asking question after question and repeating them in random orders. 

This is where I messed up tho. I should've left the scene promptly. I lingered long enough for his group of friends to catch up. I pocketed my phone and fished my car keys out in case I needed to protect myself. God knows being huddled by 5 drunk guys at night while it's drizzling, I fear my own safety. 

What went on in my head there and then was where is the nearest group of people, hopefully sober and helpful. If I needed to protect myself, I'll use the keys for weapon. If I need to run, where is the best direction. Lucky me a group of patrols passed by and no violence occurred. Still, that taught me a lesson. 

Keep yourself safe. Respect your environment, know the dangers and evaluate the need of self-preservation. Relax. Keep a cool mind. Calm down and control yourself. Finally, respond to the changes in your environment accordingly. Do not resort to violence unless if really necessary. 

And as a general rule, I can't emphasize on this any less, keep yourself safe!

Ever had one of those when you want to hang out with your buddies but have no idea where to go? I mean, sure, Kuching has a lot to offer. The movies, the malls, places to eat etc. but what if you want something different? 

Why not try the parks? Kuching actually has so many parks to go to. They're great especially if you don't have anywhere in particular to go and would like to go out yet keep those cash inside. 10 points to anyone who can pinpoint where these pics were taken? And while you're at it, another 10 points for those who actually went here for a brisk walk (I'm sure your lady friends would appreciate it. Mind the weather tho.)

Guys, this post is specifically for you. Of course, ladies are welcomed to try them out too. It's be awesome to rock a dress shirt, a vest and a tie with dress pants in parties n stuffs.

At that all important meeting, a job interview, a client pitch, dinner parties and all kind of occasions requiring you to wear ties, do you stick to just one way of tying your tie, or do you dare to go above and beyond? Why not, right? Afterall, dressing to impress isn't just limited to the ladies. 

If you happen to only have plain dress shirt and feel nothing you wear could accentuate your personality, why not let your tie shine you through. Need an icebreaker? Not a single word is required. People are bound to ask, hey how'd you tie your tie like that?

Lemme start by being vain and show you a small part of my tie collection. 

As a friend noted to me once, the art of tying a tie has to be a personal discovery. I'll show you some of my favourite tie styles (which I have only just learnt) and let you explore and try it out yourself. 

This one's the most common - safest and one of the easiest tie style there is. The half-Windsor.

These are Eldredge Knot. 

And this one's a Trinity

Just some of the more prominent ones. Interesting, aren't they? So next time you need that extraa boost of confidence for a presentation, trying to impress your future employer with how well you can dress, or just attending some dinner, try one of the above knots on your tie. It'll sure draw some attention and make a lasting impression.