The Insider's Scoop to W Singapore, Sentosa Cove

Today, my article on W Singapore is published in New Straits Times, RED Segment (NST, RED). You can read the newspaper's version here.

However, this post in my blog is another version of that said article. You will find very different photos of the W Singapore in this blog version as well. Hope you like it.

  

Getting the INSIDER's Scoop to W Singapore at Sentosa Cove

Welcome to the world of W.

The W Singapore at Sentosa Cove

The W hotels and resorts are nothing like a Ritz Carlton, Hilton, or even its other sister hotels such as Sheraton and Westin. Its DNA is strictly composed of quirky, funky and high-octane attributes. The first W was unveiled in New York in1998. Instantly, it transformed the very definition of hotels and luxury. Starwood wanted to showcase a lifestyle hotel that sizzled with contemporary cool designs, hip music and glamour. It had to also reflect their famous “Whatever/Whenever service”. This is what makes W the crowned leader of innovative lifestyle brands.

The "Glowing Jungle"

While all W hotels and resorts retain this riveting essence, they are also individually unique. Despite appearances, not every of the W hotels and resorts in the world are not owned by a single large hotel chain such as Starwood. The worldwide Ws are operated on a franchise business venture. Hence, each W property may belong to different corporations, groups, or persons. This is where it gets exciting, and “individualized”. In my recent trip to Singapore, I chose to stay at the W Singapore in Sentosa.

The Grand Staircase

 As always, whenever I arrive into a W property, I would look for the “W Insider”. It is not a secret that most W hotels and resorts have an “Insider” who serves a very special role in all their guest-relations. Yes, this “Insider” is a person and not a Newsletter or a techno gadget. It is the Insider’s job to go beyond the services of the concierge, or the guest liaisons officers in each of the W property. The Insider would have an in-depth knowledge of the property, its history, all the amenities and activities available on site, including the customizing of novel programs for each guest. This is an added service that is provided by the W Hotels and Resorts for every guest, and is not exclusive only to those who reside in their suites.

The Reception Desks

In W Singapore, their “Insider” is Ms. Sheena Koo. This is her first hotel gig. She shared that the most important asset to an Insider is his or her network of contacts. It comes in most handy when Insiders are requested to do the near impossible feats, such as driving out of the resort in the middle of the night in search of “kim chi” and sushi for a particular guest. Or, running around in the city to find a personalized gift for a couple celebrating their wedding anniversary at the resort. Ever since W Singapore opened their doors on 16^th September 2012, Sheena has been swamped with specific requests for organizing weddings and proposals. It seems that many people find the W Singapore to be the perfect venue for commemorating their momentous occasions or events. She also spoke of this regular Platinum Starwood guest who always insists on staying at their room 701, despite being able to afford the higher category of their suites. After visiting the rooms of the “01 series”, I understood the why this particular guest enjoys staying in room 701. It is not something that can be described in words, but a feeling to be savored upon entering the said room. 

The Marvelous Suite's Bedroom

On the day of my arrival, I had the pleasure and privilege of being taken on a personal tour of Singapore’s W by Sheena. This is how I got to know the many fascinating aspects of the resort. For example, there are over 40 fairies of both gender embedded in their grand ballroom. It is somewhat fun to try and spot every one of them. 

The Marvelous Suite's Living Room

To be precise, there are many other little surprises to be found lurking in every corner of this resort. Every decorative item or furniture piece placed within the W Singapore is there for a reason. Each holds an interesting story. For instance, the birdcages scattered tastefully around the Woo Bar is reminiscent of the days when all the elderly uncles would bring down their birds in cages from their Singapore HDB flats every morning. They would then congregate at the nearby park and compare their birds. This was an indelible feature of the Singapore public housing lifestyle of yesteryears. Of course, these days the birds carry a different metaphor altogether at the Woo Bar. They no longer are caged, and they are mostly two legged beautiful ladies who serve the enticing concoctions from W’s resident mixologists. 

The WET Pool

   

The only temporary drawback in W Singapore is the lack of dining options. In the whole resort, one can merely go to two dining locations, excluding the pool bar and the Woo bar. They are the all-day dining “Kitchen Table” and “Skirt”, which only opens at 6pm. One would have to travel out of the hotel in order to sample other dining choices. Thankfully though, there is a complex of retail, food and beverage outlets that will be opened by late December this year to support the resort’s limited dining facilities. This new addition adjacent to the property is called, “Quayside Isle”. It is within walking distance of the resort. So, we do not need a car but a pair of sturdy legs.

The Quirky Elevator

 The land where W Singapore resides was previously a jungle of wilderness. Now, it has been transformed to a swanky ‘glowing’ jungle. This W is owned by the City Developments Limited Group, or otherwise known as “CDL”. They are one of the biggest landlords in Singapore with over 7 million square feet of nett leasable space. In creating their own brand of W in Singapore, CDL recruited the talents of the Rockwell Group and the London-based architects, WATG. This dynamic collaboration gave birth to all that we marvel at the W Singapore today.

It is important to note that the resort’s interiors were further enriched by Mrs. Kwek’s very personal touch. Mrs. Kwek is the wife of CDL’s Chairman, Kwek Leng Beng. Some of you may have heard of Mr. Kwek’s fellow billionaire cousin, Mr. Quek Leng Chan, Chairman of the Hong Leong Group in Malaysia. Mrs. Kwek was the artistic “curator” of this Singaporean W resort. It is from her love for all things artsy that W Singapore houses some of the most eclectic original artworks - from an Andy Warhol to a Rodin sculpture. It is a delight to wander about the entire property hunting for the various masterpieces. It is an aesthetic treasure hunt that I truly recommend for all visitors to this W resort.

The List of original Artworks

It is customary to be greeted by an effigy of the iconic “W” alphabet in all the W properties at the main entrance. However, each hotel and resort will have its own interpretation of this figurine. In W Singapore, it is dappled with butterflies, ferns and flowers but bathed in the colour of white. This “W” structure is lit from within, and its lighting colour will gradually change from purple to pink. The organic elements of nature are fundamental to W Singapore’s central design and theme. One will witness the many creative ways of how this nature motif is incorporated throughout the property. Some may not even be visible until they are illuminated. Again, I suggest keeping an eye out for these zany characteristics of the W Singapore. 

The AWAY Spa

Do not be alarmed when one finds that the whole ambience of the lobby will change dramatically from morning to night. The lobby in the W Singapore works as a Reception Area by day, but moonlights as a Dance Floor by night. From 6pm onwards, the DJ will start to spin loud funky tunes. The music can even be heard underwater in their generously sized pool with a swim-up bar. This is at the courtesy of its 24 speakers. A W hotel or resort would not be complete without this principal melodic facet. Groovy music feeds the soul of every W.

The AWAY Spa's Vitality Pool

As it is Christmas, W Singapore presents its own version of the famed tree. Theirs is christened as the “Mirror Tree”. I was told that the resort wanted to construct a Christmas tree of meaning and purpose. Therefore, the mirrors are decorated on the tree with the intention of inspiring everyone, guests and staff alike, to reflect upon how the year has been for them as it comes to a close. This would inevitably aid everyone in formulating meaningful New Year’s resolutions for themselves as well. Hence, the W Singapore’s Christmas tree is not merely an ornament but serves a higher significance. Here lies some of the expressive qualities of this particular W.

The Mirrored Xmas Tree

I got myself a Spectacular Room from the resort’s 240 guestrooms of various categories. It had a lovely white pendant light that is adorned with butterflies at the end of the room, and my balcony opened to the charming views of the marina. What I always appreciate about the W rooms is their mood lighting system. In Singapore’s W, my room had 3 distinct ambient lighting choices. They were “Runway”, “Escape” and “Flirty”. Naturally, I was drawn to “Flirty”. Within a split second of pressing that “Flirty” button, all the lights in the room became dimmed. Then, the purple mood lighting under the bed came to life. The intricate wall paneling at the head of the bed also ignited into the same colour tones. Instantly, my whole room was enclosed in a cool sexy purple hue. I suppose if I had to pick a colour to define “Flirty”, this might just be it.

The "Flirty" Mode

Spectacular Room's Bathroom

After all that is said and done, one just has to experience staying at a W resort for oneself. Each individual will no doubt have his or her own perspective of a W hotel and resort. W is like Opera - you either hate it or love it. There is no “grey” area in one’s relationship with a W. To date, I have visited W Bali, W Koh Samui, W Hong Kong, W Taipei, W New York and now, W Singapore. Every one of them has been exceptional in their own distinct ways. Then again, I usually befriend the “Insider” of each W as quickly as I arrive. Sometimes, even before I arrive. It certainly has helped made my stay more enjoyable. The next W I will be visiting is the one in Bangkok. Until then, happy holidays and Merry Christmas!

   

Part Three of Story Eleven from "A Symphony of Short Stories" - The Conclusion

Story Eleven: THE BIG CRUISE PART THREE OF THREE

Sandra had escorted the Stamp sisters – Pandora, Paloma, Patisse and Paris to the Canyon Ranch Spa Club on deck 7, to ensure that the ladies were formally introduced to the Spa Manager, Denise. The ladies would be pampering themselves to a full day’s spa program - starting with the Canyon Ranch’s signature Rasul Ceremony, and concluding with a mani and pedi each. Also, a special spa lunch would be prepared for the ladies as well.

During the first three days aboard QM 2, the sisters had chosen to stay indoors as Paloma Stamp was not feeling well. As it turned out, Paloma had always been prone to seasickness. The ship’s doctor was summoned, and Paloma was prescribed with some medication. None of the sisters wished to leave their suite for it meant leaving Paloma behind. So, they insisted that all the food and fun were served in their suite instead. This way, they could be together and have a wonderful time. They ordered light meals, board games, card games and movies to be delivered to their suites. Most of all, lavender scented candles were lit, as these were Paloma’s favourite. Such was their brand of sisterhood – “one for all and all for one”.

Being an only child, Sandra did not have any idea what it would be like growing up with sisters or brothers. However, looking at the Stamp sisters and the way they interacted with one another, she could not help but feel a pang of envy. All four of them were unreservedly at ease in making fun of one another - to the point of playing pranks on each other. Furthermore, they were just as comfortable in poking fun at themselves. There was no shortage of devotion, nor a hint of shyness in the way the sisters communicated with one another. This led Sandra to believe that only siblings who truly shared a deep bond could be that accustomed to each other’s eccentricities, as well as, comedy. Before Sandra left the ladies in the capable hands of Denise, she reminded them of Captain Benjamin’s personal invitation to dinner at the Queens Grill Restaurant.

It was customary for Captain Benjamin to host dinners with a selected group of guests onboard QM 2. In this way, the Captain would get the opportunity to meet with some of his passengers, as well as, to introduce them to others. On that very night, Captain Benjamin had invited the Stamp sisters, Ms. Mabel Shaw and the “Reunion Party” guests.

On the previous night, the Captain had hosted a dinner with Richard and Amanda Tan, Edward and Josephine Lone, Douglas and Samantha Ferhad, Ms. Melissa Ranter and Mr. William Tent. Sandra was glad that Mr. Tent had made the effort to get out of his suite to join that dinner. She had arranged for him to be seated with Edward and Josephine. Their positive outlook on life must have rubbed off on Mr. Tent, as he seemed to have abandoned his dark somber moods. On the very next day, Mr. William was seen spending some time out of his suite. He even had lunch with Edward and Josephine, went to the gym and played at some tables at the Empire Casino. To Sandra, that was progress!

By 8pm, all of the Captain’s invited guests had arrived at the table reserved for them - except Ms. Mable Shaw. The Stamp sisters and Ms. Jennifer Li were seated together on one side of the long rectangular table located in a quiet corner of the Queens Grill Restaurant. Captain Benjamin was seated at the head of the table, being the perfect host – introducing everyone to one another and initiating conversations. The rest of the guests from the “Reunion Party” were seated on the opposite side of the table – Henry Park, Hanson Park, Harry Park and his wife, Sophia. The seat next to Hanson was empty, and awaiting for its rightful guest, Mabel Shaw.

Fifteen minutes after eight - Ms. Mable Shaw waltzed towards their table, while everyone was cheerfully conversing with each other. She was dressed in an alluring aquamarine long dress. For someone who was late, she did not quicken her steps nor rushed. Every movement she made was puctuated with relaxed grace. When she arrived at the table, she apologised for her tardiness and took the seat beside Hanson Park. She offered no explanation for her lateness, nor felt that she needed to. There was no air of arrogance about her, but a sense of regality. Hanson did not take his eyes off her from the moment he saw her. Although she was clearly much older than his 38 years of age, there was just something very captivating about her which he could not deny.

Once Mabel Shaw joined the table, their dinner dialogue escalated with witty humour, diversity and depth. She had a striking aptitude for entertaining the group with her travel stories. Each and everyone forgave her delayed arrival after that. Just before dessert was served, Captain Benjamin had to excuse himself. Ms. Austina came at the Captain’s side, and informed him that there was something urgent at hand. Their mystery guest of the Sandringham Suite had arrived. It was a he, and he wanted to speak with the Captain immediately. After the Captain had left, his dinner guests continued in their revelry. Sandra realized that an excellent host would be one that was no longer needed nor missed at his or her own party.

Mabel further shared that her home was now in Tuscany, and that she had partnered with an Italian designer to produce her own line of leather products – such as hand bags, shoes and clutches. Then, she presented the clutch bag that she was carrying for the evening on the dining table. Naturally, all the ladies at the table fell in love with it at first sight. Before the night was over, every person at the table had become well-acquainted friends. Hanson Park would not have minded to be much more familiar with the enchanting Mabel Shaw. However, he kept very silent throughout the dinner. After their coffee, tea, pralines and dessert, most of them decided to try their luck at the Empire Casino on deck 2. Mabel politely declined to join them and left. After everybody started to depart from the Queens Grill Restaurant and made their way towards the gambling club, Hanson Park trailed Mabel’s steps. He finally found her on deck 13, sitting alone at the sun deck with her cigarillos.

There were no moon or stars in sight - just a delicious cool breeze and the sound of the crushing waves amid an air of electricity between two people. Mabel was about to light one of her small cigars, when Hanson came forward to ignite it for her. As the tip of the rolled tobacco sparked brightly with red heat, Mabel drew in a long slow breath.  Her dark eyes did not leave Hanson’s face. Then gradually, she turned away as she exhaled into the bewitching night. Without saying a word, she left Hanson’s side and moved towards the railings of the balcony that wrapped around the sun deck. Undeterred, Hanson joined her.

“Is there something you need from me?” She asked when Hanson appeared by her side.

Hanson replied casually - “I am still deciding.”

Mabel did not turn to look at him, but maintained her gaze into the vast darkness, “Deciding on what?”

Hanson said - “Deciding on whether it is something I need from you, or something I want to give to you.”

THIS IS AN EXCERPT FROM THE BOOK: "LIFE IS A JOURNEY - A SYMPHONY OF SHORT STORIES".

THE BOOK IS BEING PUBLISHED AS WE SPEAK, BOTH IN HARD COPY AND E-FORMAT. 

HOPE YOU LIKE IT ENOUGH TO BUY THE BOOK WHEN IT IS OUT. I WILL UPDATE AGAIN. 

THANKS :)

Part Two of Story Eleven from "A Symphony of Short Stories"

Story Eleven: THE BIG CRUISE PART TWO OF THREE

Both Richard and Amanda were thrilled when they were being escorted into their “surprise” upgraded suite. It was decked out with bridal floral arrangements, a bottle of champagne, a box of truffles and a basket of exotic fruits. The main highlight was the bed and bathroom. They were both decorated with scented candles and plenty of rose petals that formed the shape of a heart. They thanked Sandra and Adrian, their Personal Butler, profusely. As Sandra was walking away from their suite, she could still hear Amanda squealing with delight.

“If they are this excited now, wait till they see what’s in store for them at the evening turndown service!”  Adrian remarked as he and Sandra walked towards the stairs to Deck 9. That would be one very happy couple checked off from her list, Sandra thought.

Inside the Queen Anne suite, the euphoria continued but Richard feared that his new wife might misunderstand. So, he tried to explain, “I did not plan for any of this. In fact, I only booked us a normal suite and arranged for a bouquet of lilies. I hope you know that I am just NOT capable of being romantic at THIS KIND OF LEVEL. This is HUGE – way beyond my league. You do know that I had a lot of help with that airport flash mob thing - mostly from both of our sisters. I could not have done it alone. You know what a really simple guy I am, right?”

Amanda laughed and cuddled the husband of her dreams, “Oh, you are safe! I know just exactly what level of romantic you ARE capable of. Don’t ever forget that I’ve known you for over 9 years. I haven’t forgotten who you really are just because we’re married now.” She pulled him closer to her.

“Well, I certainly hope so because I would be deeply distraught if the day ever came that we can’t be completely honest with each other. I don’t want to hide anything from you and I wish for you to do the same.” Richard spoke seriously.

Amanda looked at Richard and said gently, “I know you have been very concerned that our friendship will change after we’re married. It’s going to be fine, my dear husband. We will be fine.”  

“More than anything else, I worry that the way we communicate with one another could change in the course of our marriage. And I would hate that, because you’re my very dearest darling friend. Who would I be able to talk to about anything at all, if not you? Who could I share all my darkest secrets with, if not you? No one understands me like you, and I don’t want that to ever change. You’re the root of my life.” Richard said solemnly.

The newly weds held each other tightly as if to dispel any remaining fears and doubts.

“I can’t promise you that I’m going to be perfectly understanding at all times, or that I would be able to take on everything without losing it. But what I can promise you is this – I will not let you go into the battlefields of life alone. I will not abandon you even when I am pushed to renouncing myself. Above all, I will still love you and care for you even when we are forced to fight on opposing views. This is my vow to you.” Amanda smiled, as she held Richard’s face to hers.

Richard buried his head in the warmth of Amanda’s embrace. It was the assurance he needed to hear again. Amanda had always been and will always be his everything.

Amanda added, “You, my darling, will not be able to get rid of me even if you try.”

Richard looked up with joy, “That’s exactly what I have been waiting to hear!”

They laughed and kissed ever so tenderly - completely obviously to the little drama unfolding beyond their suite. They were completely enamored in their own bliss.

In the hallway, Jeremy approached Sandra and reported that Mr. William Tent seemed worse for wear. Mr. Tent had put up the “DND” sign from the minute he walked into his suite, and had only asked for more ice to be delivered. Sandra decided to leave Mr. Tent alone for the moment, and proceeded in the direction of the Stamp sisters’ duplex apartments. She had a long list of guests to get through before she would be mentally equipped to tackle an emotionally decrepit male.

Nestled in the Balmoral Grand Duplex, William Tent got up to close all the curtains in the room so that not a shred of light could invade. Darkness was his only companion, coupled with the bottles of whisky laid out neatly on the bar counter. He knew that he could no longer attribute the failure of all the relationships he has ever had with women, especially his ex-wife, to entirely being the woman’s fault.

In the past, it was convenient and even comforting to consign the blame on the women in his life – from his mother who held an influential role in molding him to the man he is today, to the girlfriends in between, then onto the wife he had married for over 11 years, and finally, to the three girlfriends after his divorce. The only ones spared from responsibility were his ladies of one-night dalliances. They did not count at all, for none of them had the power to hurt him in any way. However, his ex-wife and ex-girlfriends could. And to him, they atrociously did - at least it was established as so inside the labyrinth of his mind.

All the three relationships he has had after his divorce began with such promise and passion, but quickly disintegrated into an ugly break-up. None of them lasted for more than 2 months. William Tent had been so talented in holding the women accountable for the mess in his life that it became an effortless habit. Sitting in the dark, he had no choice but to take a long harsh look at himself for a change.

After the curtains were drawn and the leading ladies have long forsaken the stage, William’s layers of self-deceit would finally shed like autumn leaves. There was no one else left by his side that he could pass on the culpability to. He was singularly alone at last. The time was ripe for him to face himself, without prejudice or the need for justification.

THIS IS AN EXCERPT FROM THE BOOK: "LIFE IS A JOURNEY - A SYMPHONY OF SHORT STORIES".

THE BOOK IS BEING PUBLISHED AS WE SPEAK, BOTH IN HARD COPY AND E-FORMAT. 

HOPE YOU LIKE IT ENOUGH TO BUY THE BOOK WHEN IT IS OUT. I WILL UPDATE AGAIN. 

THANKS :)

Part One of Story Eleven from "A Symphony of Short Stories"

Story Eleven: THE BIG CRUISE PART ONE OF THREE

Cunard’s flagship, the Queen Mary 2, is nothing short of a floating city. She is a resplendent dame whose 13 decks accommodate duplex apartments, suites, staterooms, various dining rooms, ballrooms, bars, lounges, swimming pools, state of the art fitness gym, a casino, a theatre, a planetarium, a spa, a kids club and many more. Being an English lady, she must naturally have “Harrods” onboard as well. Though by today’s standards QM 2, as she is affectionately called, is not the largest of cruise ships – she is, however, one of the most opulent. The mahogany wood finishing, the cascading chandeliers and the signature white glove service with a dashing smile could almost transport one back into that luxurious era of ocean travel. As you glide through the hallways, you might feel obliged to dress the part and not walk around in shorts or fit-flops. When, in the presence of royalty, we must be respectful. So, do not be alarmed when you see tuxedo-clad men and women in their splendid evening gowns cruising down the grand staircase at dinner. 

With her magnificent size of grandeur, every head would turn in awe whenever QM 2 arrived at each port of call. In 2004, the year she was unveiled to the world, crowds would gather excitedly just to catch a glimpse of her. Children would gesture their hands with such animation that one half expects QM 2 to reciprocate with a smile. As always, it is the most extraordinary feeling to be standing amongst the many fortunate passengers at the ship’s balcony, while waving at the many more below, as her majesty pushes out to sea. The sound of her horns would trumpet through the air inviting yet another journey of adventure and discovery for all her passengers.

This was the very reason why Sandra Chan chose to join the crew of Queen Mary 2.  

On this particular voyage of May 2012, QM 2 would be departing from her “home” port of call: Southampton and sail across to Paris. From Paris, she would waltz through the seas to visit Madrid, Barcelona, Cannes, Florence, Rome, Venice, Amsterdam, and then finally return home to England.

Captain Benjamin was very glad to have Sandra onboard as a special “Guest Liaisons Officer”. She would only be handling a list of very important guests.

“These are the ones we must pay a close attention to. I refrain from using the word, special. Not all the guests on this list are VIPs. The Director of Guest Services will be going through the list with you. If you come across any difficulty in handling a guest from this list, you may speak with the Director or see me directly. I am delighted to have you join our family at sea. I am sure Dr. Khan is celebrating the fact that you are travelling again.” Captain said and patted her on the shoulder.

THIS IS AN EXCERPT FROM THE BOOK: "LIFE IS A JOURNEY - A SYMPHONY OF SHORT STORIES".

THE BOOK IS BEING PUBLISHED AS WE SPEAK, BOTH IN HARD COPY AND E-FORMAT. 

HOPE YOU LIKE IT ENOUGH TO BUY THE BOOK WHEN IT IS OUT. I WILL UPDATE AGAIN. 

THANKS :)

Story Ten from "A Symphony of Short Stories"

Story Ten: The Reluctant Traveler

Fear has held Sandra hostage because she had allowed it to. She thought it was safer to be locked within her own boundaries. She knows that she had given terror the absolute authority to make her invalid to the world, and to herself. It has been 25 years, 8 months and 10 days since she lost her entire family in a horrific plane crash. To this day, it is recorded as the worst single aircraft disaster in history.

Sandra can still hear the newscaster’s voice in her head, as if it was just yesterday. It was an August evening of the 12^th in the year 1985. She had came home early from work. As usual, she would switch on the television to catch the day’s headlines and make herself a cup of tea. The local news channel was broadcasting the top stories of the day. Then the words: “BREAKING NEWS - Japan Airlines Flight 123 has crashed near Mount Osutaka.” splintered across her kitchen table, and gutted her heart.

Sandra’s mug fell onto the floor, and shattered to pieces. She could not move, and stay glued to the television set. They were showing a live aerial transmission of the crash site.

“At around 6pm today, the Japan Airlines 747 Boeing flight had taken off from Tokyo International Airport 12 minutes behind schedule. It was a domestic flight from Tokyo to Osaka. However, due to severe mechanical failure the plane crashed into the mountains about 100 kilometers from Tokyo. There are only four confirmed survivors. The death toll stands at 520. ” The newscaster added.

Sandra’s husband and son were on that flight. Her husband was taking their son to visit his parents in Osaka, as it was the Obon holiday week in Japan. It was customary for all practicing Japanese Buddhists to go back to their hometowns during Obon to honour the dead, specifically the spirits of their ancestors. Sandra would have never imagined that her family’s first trip back to Osaka without her would be their last. In that one day, Sandra’s world came undone. She had lost everything that was important and dear to her. 

The weeks that followed went by like a haze. Sandra had to fly out to Japan to identify her family’s bodies. She went to the morgue together with her in-laws. They had decided to bury their remains in Osaka, where her husband was born. After the small and private funeral procession was over, Sandra made her way back to Malaysia. She truly dreaded coming back. There was nothing for her to return to.

The first month was pure hell. She had never felt more abandoned. Although many friends and relatives came by to visit or called her, it was never going to be the same. She was completely and utterly alone. As she was an only child and her parents had already passed, her husband and son were all she had in the world. She thought of joining them in the after-life, as there seemed pointless in pretending that she still had a life. It became her routine. From the very second, she opened her eyes to face another depressing day, to the final minutes before she gave herself over to exhaustion and slept through another lonely night – all she could think about was how to end her life. Even breathing in and out was becoming a chore. Day by day, she felt more drained. She had no energy to do anything else, but grieved. Her house was turning into a dumpsite of sorts.

THIS IS AN EXCERPT FROM THE BOOK: "LIFE IS A JOURNEY - A SYMPHONY OF SHORT STORIES".

THE BOOK IS BEING PUBLISHED AS WE SPEAK, BOTH IN HARD COPY AND E-FORMAT. 

HOPE YOU LIKE IT ENOUGH TO BUY THE BOOK WHEN IT IS OUT. I WILL UPDATE AGAIN. 

THANKS :)

Story Nine from "A Symphony of Short Stories"

Story Nine: THE HOLIDAY ANGELS

Once upon a time, there were four very different little girls, who grew up to be four very different women.

But they had four things in common – they’re brilliant, they’re beautiful, they’re sassy and they are sisters.

Meet Pandora, Paloma, Patisse and Paris.

Pandora was always the “bohemian” in the family. She goes to great lengths just to experience life. If she didn’t work with the Discovery Channel, she would have become a professional beach bum. Getting her to settle down in one place is as impossible as getting a pig to windsurf. Her father had to entice every man in any land, reachable without a space shuttle, to marry her by offering them a handsome financial reward. Unfortunately, all suitors ran for their lives (and well-being) after spending one week with her. None of them could be reached for any comment at this time.

Paloma was the first to be married. She lives in San Francisco with her husband, three kids, two maids, and one dog. She cooks, bakes, paints and runs the family business. She is a Martha Stewart that looks like a Nigella Lawson. Everything in her life runs on the schedule. Her most prized possession is her house in the Hamptons.

Patisse was the second to be married. She has two girls, and she insisted it was enough. Her daily life revolves around her family from both sides – hers and her husband’s. Whatever time she has left to spare will be spent on home décor. She just enjoys decorating and fixing up her house. She lives in a beautiful large Victorian house in San Francisco with her husband and her in-laws.

Paris jet sets around the world for a living, and is engaged to a famous football star. She commutes between London and San Francisco. London is where she works as a fashion stylist and San Francisco is where her family resides. With the amount of travelling she has to do, she is contemplating on buying a G6.

Every two years the four sisters would decide on a destination to meet and stay for a week - without their other halves, children or parents. This was a tradition that they had decided to create when Paris moved to London, and Pandora moved every other week. They thought it would be a wonderful way for them to bond, catch up and to get a respite from their demanding every day lives.

In 2001, it was Pandora’s turn to organize their sisterly vacation. Although the other sisters were rather apprehensive at what Pandora might pull out of her ‘box of ideas’, they kept silent. Secretly, they were bracing for the worst. Each and every one had their fingers and toes crossed. Finally, Pandora announced that they were going to Bali. It would be the first for all of them.

Pandora had chosen a secluded boutique resort, tucked into the mountains of Ubud. It was to be a week of yoga, aryuveda, organic cuisine with the usual temple visits and shopping. When the sisters arrived into the “Island of the Gods”, they were picked up by a van. It was not the Bentley of vans, but its air-conditioning worked. However, none of the windows in the van could open. Calmly and with stealth, Paloma took out her small bottle of Lavender scented mist and sprayed on the seats of the van. It was much agreeable after that.

Their trip to the resort in Ubud took almost 3 hours from the airport. The traffic was murder. The sisters wanted to wrangle the driver’s neck for his devil-may-care driving. As they approached a steep hill before reaching the resort, the van started choking and hyperventilating. It sounded like the van was about to spit out its engine and die in the middle of the road. The sisters were united in muffled prayer and fear. The driver assured them that it was normal and smiled. Thankfully, they did arrive at the resort in one piece – including the van.

After the girls settled into their four-bedroom pool villa, it started to rain. It didn’t stop until the next morning. Hence, the temperature started to drop to about 16 degrees Celsius. It became much more chilly with the howling wind. It was beginning to feel a lot like Seattle, and less like a tropical island.

The sisters refused to allow the rain to dampen their spirits. Paloma started spraying their villa with her Lavender mist, and Patisse lighted up some scented candles she had brought along. Then all of them took out the hair dryers from each room and started blowing the beds. They wanted to make their beds warm and snug. They had to call for in-villa dining, as it was just too wet to venture out to the resort’s one and only restaurant. After dinner, they started updating one another on what they had missed – the highlights of their lives, the lows, their challenges and their achievements. They were each other’s confidants and advisors. The ladies kept on chatting until 2am. As it got colder, they had to use the hair dryers to warm up their beds again. The sisters ended up snuggling together in one bed and slept. They were like teenagers all over again.

THIS IS AN EXCERPT FROM THE BOOK: "LIFE IS A JOURNEY - A SYMPHONY OF SHORT STORIES".

THE BOOK IS BEING PUBLISHED AS WE SPEAK, BOTH IN HARD COPY AND E-FORMAT. 

HOPE YOU LIKE IT ENOUGH TO BUY THE BOOK WHEN IT IS OUT. I WILL UPDATE AGAIN. 

THANKS :)

Story Eight from "A Symphony of Short Stories"

Story Eight: THE REALIZATION GAME

It took Richard 7 days, after receiving that fateful text from Amanda, to realize that he was losing his “best buddy in the world”.

She had not returned any of his calls or text messages. Her email had been programmed for an auto reply. It kept bouncing back to him with the following message –

“I am off to a long and well-deserved holiday. I may or may not check my emails because I would be having too fun for once in my life. I’ll probably be back in a month or three! We shall see!

Amanda”

By day 8, Amanda’s mobile had been permanently switched off. It went straight into her voicemail every time Richard tried to call. And he really tried, several times each day.

By day 9, her mailbox was full. He could no longer leave her any voice messages.

From day 10 through day 15, Richard felt most uneasy. Even Simone could not cheer him up. Something was just not right, but he could not put his finger on it. He was becoming less and less excited about his impending wedding to Simone. In fact, he was beginning to dread it altogether.

Day 18, Richard and Simone had their first full-blown fight. Nothing had been going right between them. It was Simone who laid down the “bombshell” for Richard.

“You are the idiot! Can’t you see that you have not been the same ever since you could not find Amanda? Every day and night, I have to hear you talk about her – where is she, what is she doing, who is she with, is she ok, why is she not returning my calls or emails! Look at you! You are a mess!”

“What are you really saying, Simone?” Richard stared at her.

“I am saying you are a stupid idiot man for not realizing that the person you love is your best buddy and not me! The wedding is off. Everything is off! Mange de la merde!” Simone yelled and stormed out of his apartment.

Richard did not even bother getting up to run after Simone. He had let her leave. But did she just tell him to ‘eat shit’ in French?

In any case, he did not care. He wanted her to leave him alone with his thoughts. He was too busy thinking about Amanda.

WHERE IN THE WORLD IS AMANDA KIM?!

Day by day, Richard was getting more agitated. It was becoming a challenge to concentrate on the last few weeks of his baking course.

Then the question started to trickle into his mind.

Could it really be true? Whatever Simone had said began to take root.

THIS IS AN EXCERPT FROM THE BOOK: "LIFE IS A JOURNEY - A SYMPHONY OF SHORT STORIES".

THE BOOK IS BEING PUBLISHED AS WE SPEAK, BOTH IN HARD COPY AND E-FORMAT. 

HOPE YOU LIKE IT ENOUGH TO BUY THE BOOK WHEN IT IS OUT. I WILL UPDATE AGAIN. 

THANKS :)

Story Seven from "A Symphony of Short Stories"

Story Seven: "WE WILL ALWAYS HAVE PARIS"

From the Diary of Jennifer Li

I will NEVER go on a cheap tour EVER again. EVER!!!!

Do you know what I am talking about here?

You would have to wake up at an un-holy hour to catch an early bus ride.

You could barely think straight, and none of your eyelids would be working at that time.

Your mind would still be lingering in that warm comfy bed, along with a dream that you were enjoying before that annoying phone rang to make sure that you were REALLY AND TRULY AWAKE. Or else, they would just keep ringing every 5 minutes.

People tell me that the worst thing about getting up from bed IS actually getting out of bed. But once you are out from bed, you’ll be fine. So NOT true!

But you know what’s the worst thing about getting up THIS KIND of early? It’s that bloody cold shower you know you MUST take, because it was too early for the hot water to be fully conscious and running!

And to top it all off, YOU ARE ON A FUCKING HOLIDAY!

Never again.

NEVER AGAIN.

That’s what I keep telling myself. I don’t care how cheap it is. I am not falling for it ever!

There is a GOOD reason why it is so bloody cheap!

All basic human sensibilities would be stripped and tattered by the time you’re dragged through their crammed itinerary of cities, sights and monuments. Some of which you would not be able to remember, because you are still too jet lagged coming in from the last city.

And please do not even get me started on the food, or hotels!

What is it with these tour companies? Do they like have a special deal with the worst restaurants in every city of each country? They are like a natural magnet for the worst restaurants and hotels on the entire planet. Thankfully, I had brought along my own biscuits and cup noodles on that “wonderful” (hiss, hiss) tour of Switzerland.

On that particular trip, I had the utter bad luck of getting the rooms with the “best” (hiss, hiss, hiss) view. Allow me to recount the ways  -

1) In Lucerne, my hotel room window opened to a brick fucking wall!

2) In Zurich, it faced the alley of the hotel’s back entrance!

3) In Lausanne, there was no fucking window – just a picture of a painted landscape. And it was moldy.

4) In Basel, I could only see the greasy neighbour who lived next to the hotel. From my window to his, we could have shook hands. But he was far from a Swiss stud muffin – more like an over-aged Swiss cheese.

Finally, saving the best for last…at our final stop in the picturesque country of Switzerland – Geneva, I managed to get a room that has a view of the famous lake. I could only actually see the lake, IF I had a pair of binoculars! Just fucking great, I thought.

To this day, I have strong suspicions that the tour guide had deliberately chucked me into the worst room in all the hotels throughout that Swiss tour. I am certain it was because at that time, I was the youngest traveler in the group and I was single. I had no pressing demands of a spouse, or screaming kids. Most of all, I did not have the audacity to bribe him into giving me a better room - like everyone else did in the group! So, I was assigned the nightmare of rooms in every city we had visited.

  

THIS IS AN EXCERPT FROM THE BOOK: "LIFE IS A JOURNEY - A SYMPHONY OF SHORT STORIES".

THE BOOK IS BEING PUBLISHED AS WE SPEAK, BOTH IN HARD COPY AND E-FORMAT. 

HOPE YOU LIKE IT ENOUGH TO BUY THE BOOK WHEN IT IS OUT. I WILL UPDATE AGAIN. 

THANKS :)

Story Four from "A Symphony of Short Stories"

Story Four: THE CATTLE CLASS

From the Diary of Melissa Ranter

Can I just say it again – I really can’t stand travelling long haul flights on economy class. I call them ‘cattle class’.

I hate it even more when the airlines started bringing their prices down, so that 'now everyone can fly’. No, seriously – some people should not be allowed to fly. In fact, they should not even be allowed to leave their house!

I’ll tell you why I have such deep contempt for the cattle class.

For starters, the seats are the size of peanuts. I mean, come on! Have they seriously not seen the sizes of our ass or what? Squeezing us all into the pathetic contrapment they call a seat would not make our ass stay that small, ok. In fact, most of us are just bulging out of our seams and leaking onto the next wretched seat.

Secondly, what’s with that rigid metal piece plunked in between each seat? That should not even be called an armrest. It should be called, a steel divider to keep everyone in their place. No two passengers can place their arms on these things. Have you tried? It only accommodates barely half an arm from each passenger. And the one who gets stuck in the middle seat will always have my sincere sympathy.

Thirdly, do you ever notice how there is NEVER enough overhead cabin storage in Cattle Class? I mean, there are so many more of us in the back, and yet we have to squash all our allowed number of carry-on items into that miserable shared space. Surely, they must know by now that it is simply not working! Those passengers in the front have more storage space but they hardly carry anything onboard. They should just re-distribute the storage space – seriously! Every time I try to open the over-head cabin, it’s like opening a jack in the box. Only, it’s not a funny surprise I get. It’s a collage of wreckage. 

Oh how I hate smelly people in the plane and more than anything else, smelly feet! For the life of me, I cannot comprehend why the people in cattle class never take showers. Well, they don’t smell like they take any showers at all! Do they like deliberately not shower for 3 days and then get into the plane just to aggravate people like me who have a high regard for personal hygiene? Try sitting over 5 hours being sandwiched by two very un-attractive and smelly passengers. You’ll learn a new meaning of pain very quickly.

THIS IS AN EXCERPT FROM THE BOOK: "LIFE IS A JOURNEY - A SYMPHONY OF SHORT STORIES".

THE BOOK IS BEING PUBLISHED AS WE SPEAK, BOTH IN HARD COPY AND E-FORMAT. 

HOPE YOU LIKE IT ENOUGH TO BUY THE BOOK WHEN IT IS OUT. I WILL UPDATE AGAIN. 

THANKS :)

W BALI PART TWO ...

The WOW Experience continues at W Bali Retreat & Spa in Seminyak....

Time: 9:55pm

Place: W BALI, Seminyak


I still haven't left the hotel since I checked-in yesterday .
I have just been chilling out around the resort and soaking up the sun in my private pool villa.
Still, I managed to finish a book before sunset today.

Oh, before I forget totally - they gave me a "welcome treat" when I got into the villa.
Viola -

A SWEET SIMPLE WELCOME!

How did they even know that I love cupcakes?!
Good homework, W folks!
The cupcake sitting outside the box is actually a candle. Such a delicious scent too.
And the box itself  is made of glass.
Inside - sits two lovely blueberry muffin cupcakes. I was so grateful that the icing is not the hard royal icing, but soft and not sweet at all. Of course, I licked every bit of it! Love the M & Ms too!

Bamboo Bird Cage Cubicle

I had breakfast at the "Starfish Bloo" restaurant.
Apparently, those staying at the Villas have their breakfasts here. And the rest will be having their brekkie in the "Fire" Restaurant. I shall check out "Fire" tomorrow morning, because Villa residents do have a choice and can exercise that choice. Such priviledge, ain't it? Right....

Honestly, I was not too impressed with their selection at Starfish Bloo's Buffet Breakfast. It is extensive but not as creative as the W Koh Samui's breakfast spread. Still, a sign that times are changing is that they serve Korean, Japanese and Chinese selection in their breakfast buffet. Yes, there are many Chinese from the Mainland and Koreans staying here with their families and kids. 

As for me, I ordered my fave breakfast dish - Eggs Benedict. Kindly do take note, however, the Starfish Bloo does have a wonderful menu for lunch and dinner. So, you must try it during your stay here. Chef Jack Yoss does serious flirting with his version of Pan Asian cuisine. You can even see him at work in the open kitchen.

After breakfast, it was exploration time.

The Main Pool

The Beach Bale comes with a Kiss Pillow

The Pool area cascades into a few levels.

I must say the beach in Bali can't be compared to Maldives. But Bali has the unique culture that no other place has.

So, every city or country and island have their own specialty or beauty.




One of the main reasons why I love to travel since young - I get to see so much more and learn what lies beyond my own very small world. It is always interesting and wonderful. I am always enriched beyond words by each experience.

Thankfully, the weather was kind to us today. It was sunny and breezy. The perfect combo.

From the pool, you can proceed right onto the beach or to WooBar.

This is a very funky bar that has a basement seating. It turns into a club-like atmosphere in the basement at night. And it has to be said that Woobar has split personalities. Why I say that? In the daytime, it looks completely harmless. It even houses an extremely large ceiling fan. I think they should call the Guinness World of Records.

World's Biggest Fan in a bar?

BUT at night, Woobar turns into a "femme fatale" and she lights up in various colours. No, I shall not post any pics of it here because it will not do this bar any justice. Truth is, I forgot to pack my camera - yea, the real one. Hence, all the pics here are taken by my BB. So, you just have to come here and experience Woobar for yourself. Let me give you one more reason to come to Woobar - during HAPPY HOURS - you get the "Buy 1 and get free 1" drinks! 

The Giant Mirror

The Lobby Lounge

The Lobby area is as fun as entering the rabbit's hole and into Alice's Wonderland.

You have Giant Mirrors, rocking chairs and lounge chairs of all different shapes and sizes. But they all are in keeping with the same colour schemes.





What I love the most about the lobby?

Well, the whole main building is circular in shape. I guess, this allow all the rooms to have the unobstructed view of the beach/ocean. They have placed these wonderful day beds that faces the pool and ocean. You can chill out here, read a book, order a cocktail and watch the sunset. It is indeed a gorgeous view. Needless to say, this is what I love the most about the lobby...this and that lobby bar that glows in various colours.

The BAR "AGLOW"

You have to try the Vanilla Bellini here. It is quite refreshing indeed. Of course, the best Bellinis I ever had was at Harry Cirpriani's in New York City. But that is another story altogether. Hehe

From the Bar, you can go down the "Hall of Drapes". Well, I call it that because the breeze blows the curtains so beautifully along this hallway. And it will lead you down to the Stafish Bloo restaurant. This restaurant does serve good lunches and dinners. There, I said it again.

The "Hall of Drapes"

Did you notice the designs on the ceilings? And then, did you notice the two ladies - one dressed in yellow and one in red? They are a part of a trio. I think they must be sisters - all dressed in the same outfit but just in different colours. Ms. Blue was missing in this pic. But I think they are just too cute to miss. And they are all very pretty too.

Oh, you'll like chilling out on the day beds at the lobby lounge...so much to see. Various people of different nationalities and their sense of resort wear or cruise attire. Hehe..it's a lot of eye candy and comedy in one place. Ok, moving along...

On the other side of the "Hall of Drapes", you'll enter the "Hall of Retail Therapy". Yes, I call it that. Because this is where all the resort's shops are housed. 

Btw, the label "Farah Khan" has a gorgeous boutique here. You have to visit it, even if you don't buy anything, but just to see it. No, no pics here. You'll just have to come and see for yourself.

As you pass the retail shops, there are very these large windows that allow us to look down into the "Fire" restaurant. Don't you just love the dining table piece and that very interesting chandelier? It looks so pretty at night too.

The Fire Restaurant

I just love high ceilings, period.

Now, beyond the main lobby check-in area, you'll find the SWEAT and the AWAY spa nicely tucked into their respective corners. SWEAT as its name suggests, is actually the resort's gym. It is open 24 hours. Just like their spa. I love anything that opens 24 hours - especially gyms and spas. It means that we can always come back at any hour after being thoroughly intoxicated and stuffed with amazing feasts  to burn out the calories. And afterwards, we can get detoxified at the spa! HAHA

AWAY SPA'S ENTRANCE

Anything that has the words, "WHAT'S YOUR WISH" engraved into the entrance will definitely catch my attention for about a good 2 minutes, at least. I have decided to leave this area un-photographed because I do not think the decor is anything to shout about. It is modern, minimal and chic. But they do put a lot of effort in the little touches. The path into the spa area is flanked by waters. In these ponds, you'll find some coloured pebbles thrown into the midst. Some have words such as "laugh", "live", "love", "relax" and etc. It is indeed a cute, lovely touch.

Outside in the porte cochere, you'll find bikes to rent during your stay in the resort. However, these little purple babies below are not for rent. They are strictly for the staff, which W Bali refers to as their "Talent". But they did allow me to take a pic though ;)

Purple Scooters, anyone?

I adore scooters. And purple ones are just too adorable for words!

I suppose it would be hard to kidnap one of them into the trunk of my van and pack it home.

In any case, I trotted off to the lounge area and found a day bed with my name on it. Just in time for the sun to set.

Today was indeed a wonderfully relaxing day. They even put on the fire to enhance the sunset scene. How picturesque! 

The W BALI SUNSET (as taken from my day bed)

Well, everything wonderful (or bad, for that matter) must come to an end.

It's all temporary.

We all enjoy it while we can.

Even this lovely day, filled with delicious breeze and sunshine, has come to an end.

And soon, my stay at the W BALI will also fade into a memory.

Tomorrow, I shall be checking out and moving into a friend's personal villa in Sanur.
My Bali adventure will continue until 26th December and then, after which, I shall be heading to Hong Kong.

Impermanence is our way of life.