tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-194471732024-03-23T20:37:31.552+08:00SOAPZsophiewillocqhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14949085151032830398noreply@blogger.comBlogger928125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-19447173.post-22699913098205166432017-11-01T19:58:00.001+08:002017-11-01T19:58:40.534+08:00TK TrichoKare Award-Winning Hair & Scalp Treatment<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<div style="line-height: normal; margin: 0px;">
<span style="color: black; font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 11.5pt; margin: 0px;">Not too long ago I had the chance to pop by TK TrichoKare - an
award-winning hair & scalp care centre. Now as someone with <b><i>very long
hair</i></b>, I often get asked how I maintain it, whether I intend to cut it
& so on so forth. And well, <b><i>no I do not intend to cut my hair</i></b>.
It is now down to the top of my butt & I am planning to grow it beyond
that! Naturally keeping my hair healthy is pretty important to me & I think
it's often forgotten that luscious hair stems from a healthy scalp.</span></div>
<div align="center" style="line-height: normal; margin: 0px; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div align="center" style="line-height: normal; margin: 0px; text-align: center;">
<a href="about:invalid#zClosurez" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><br /></a><span style="color: black; font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 11.5pt; margin: 0px;">So when </span><span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 11.5pt; margin: 0px;">TrichoKare invited me to experience their new <b>Advanced
Age Defying Hair Treatment</b>, I was definitely down for it! I was glad to
know that the treatment is customised based on my hair & scalp condition.
This treatment focuses on fighting the 5 main signs of ageing hair:</span></div>
<div align="center" style="line-height: normal; margin: 0px; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div align="center" style="line-height: normal; margin: 0px; text-align: center;">
<b><span style="color: black; font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 11.5pt; margin: 0px;">Thinning Hair // Grey Hair // Dryness</span></b><span style="color: black; font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 11.5pt; margin: 0px;"></span></div>
<div align="center" style="line-height: normal; margin: 0px; text-align: center;">
<b><span style="color: black; font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 11.5pt; margin: 0px;">Brittleness // Lacklustre Hair</span></b><span style="color: black; font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 11.5pt; margin: 0px;"></span></div>
<div align="center" style="line-height: normal; margin: 0px; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-O3T3phOXFPM/WfmvCptyxtI/AAAAAAAAWCA/gIoG3lSJ1FExKARykH08ojfUnm3b_moxACLcBGAs/s1600/TK%25281%2529.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="800" data-original-width="600" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-O3T3phOXFPM/WfmvCptyxtI/AAAAAAAAWCA/gIoG3lSJ1FExKARykH08ojfUnm3b_moxACLcBGAs/s1600/TK%25281%2529.png" /></a></div>
<div align="center" style="line-height: normal; margin: 0px; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div align="center" style="line-height: normal; margin: 0px; text-align: center;">
<span style="color: black; font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 11.5pt; margin: 0px;">Thankfully they have 5 </span><span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 11.5pt; margin: 0px;">outlets conveniently located near
MRT stations all<span style="color: black; margin: 0px;"> around Singapore & I headed to
the one at Novena!</span></span></div>
<div align="center" style="line-height: normal; margin: 0px; text-align: center;">
<span style="color: black; font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 11.5pt; margin: 0px;">You can find them at:</span></div>
<div align="center" style="line-height: normal; margin: 0px; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div align="center" style="line-height: normal; margin: 0px; text-align: center;">
<b><span style="color: black; font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 11.5pt; margin: 0px;">Compass One // Nex // Orchard Gateway
// Clementi Mall // Velocity @ Novena</span></b><span style="color: black; font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 11.5pt; margin: 0px;"></span></div>
<div align="center" style="line-height: normal; margin: 0px; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-YqwNuunZ-GU/WeepBPa9JdI/AAAAAAAAWAA/DKdyyWnis3AeAwhuOFnBWBSEFnBvNgy1wCLcBGAs/s1600/TK2a.jpg"><span style="color: black; font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 11.5pt; margin: 0px; text-decoration: none;"><span style="margin: 0px;"></span></span></a><span style="color: black; font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 11.5pt; margin: 0px;"></span></div>
<div align="center" style="line-height: normal; margin: 0px; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-gjKHe2n8Qm0/WeepBxEoFGI/AAAAAAAAWAM/ikiwBcgCLxcjxM8plCcBBQR8LBHdPvs8QCLcBGAs/s1600/TK2b.png"><span style="color: black; font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 11.5pt; margin: 0px; text-decoration: none;"><span style="margin: 0px;"></span></span></a><span style="color: black; font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 11.5pt; margin: 0px;"></span></div>
<div align="center" style="line-height: normal; margin: 0px; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-3TJWcAiijdo/Wfmvs1covvI/AAAAAAAAWCQ/0ipjwwuk5D0APz_ivBOpKjBAIOSJhTCVwCLcBGAs/s1600/TK2a.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="450" data-original-width="600" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-3TJWcAiijdo/Wfmvs1covvI/AAAAAAAAWCQ/0ipjwwuk5D0APz_ivBOpKjBAIOSJhTCVwCLcBGAs/s1600/TK2a.png" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-3bHm2Yp31qs/WfmvslCpA4I/AAAAAAAAWCM/jEqIMHymYzQ6irhczgakjs1bg4xoXwW8gCLcBGAs/s1600/TK2b.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="112" data-original-width="640" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-3bHm2Yp31qs/WfmvslCpA4I/AAAAAAAAWCM/jEqIMHymYzQ6irhczgakjs1bg4xoXwW8gCLcBGAs/s1600/TK2b.png" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="color: black; font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 11.5pt; margin: 0px;"></span></div>
<div align="center" style="line-height: normal; margin: 0px; text-align: center;">
<span style="color: black; font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 11.5pt; margin: 0px;">So frankly I'm sure we've all </span><span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 11.5pt; margin: 0px;">heard of TrichoKare in some form
or another but did you know that they've won numerous awards? They have a great
track record in proving how effective TrichoKare can be when it comes to
preventing hair fall & hair loss, as well as promoting healthy hair growth.<span style="color: red; margin: 0px;"></span></span></div>
<div align="center" style="line-height: normal; margin: 0px; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div align="center" style="line-height: normal; margin: 0px; text-align: center;">
<span style="color: black; font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 11.5pt; margin: 0px;">Their team of certified Trichologists continuously
innovate to create new & improved treatments </span><span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 11.5pt; margin: 0px;">incorporating premium European herbs to promote<span style="color: black; margin: 0px;"> hair growth.</span></span></div>
<div align="center" style="line-height: normal; margin: 0px 0px 16px; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-OCdeiYREurk/Wfmvsg89V8I/AAAAAAAAWCI/qF9HcugXIPgLd-tCRH3R_4jhP8gqemBVgCLcBGAs/s1600/TK3.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="799" data-original-width="600" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-OCdeiYREurk/Wfmvsg89V8I/AAAAAAAAWCI/qF9HcugXIPgLd-tCRH3R_4jhP8gqemBVgCLcBGAs/s1600/TK3.png" /></a><span style="color: black; font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 11.5pt; margin: 0px;"></span></div>
<div align="center" style="line-height: normal; margin: 0px; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div align="center" style="line-height: normal; margin: 0px; text-align: center;">
<span style="color: black; font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 11.5pt; margin: 0px;">Getting my scalp scanned!</span></div>
<div align="center" style="line-height: normal; margin: 0px; text-align: center;">
<span style="color: black; font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 11.5pt; margin: 0px;">I was quite excited for this because y'know...
wanna see how my scalp compares #competitive</span></div>
<div align="center" style="line-height: normal; margin: 0px; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<img border="0" data-original-height="400" data-original-width="600" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-skULUirBImY/WfmvuOyKtAI/AAAAAAAAWCU/PnBE1W5NKZ0EyBTfz2oanGs0DqoAzlt3QCLcBGAs/s1600/TK4.png" /></div>
<div align="center" style="line-height: normal; margin: 0px; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div align="center" style="line-height: normal; margin: 0px; text-align: center;">
<span style="color: black; font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 11.5pt; margin: 0px;">Getting the hair follicle growth cycle explained to
me!</span></div>
<div align="center" style="line-height: normal; margin: 0px; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div align="center" style="line-height: normal; margin: 0px; text-align: center;">
<span style="color: black; font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 11.5pt; margin: 0px;">And at first I thought those light-coloured hairs
were a defect - like the start of a grey/white hair, but the therapist told me
that's just my natural colour. I sometimes forget I have non-Asian blood haha. </span><span style="color: black; font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 11.5pt; margin: 0px;">I mean my hair colour pretty much looks like
everyone else's!</span></div>
<div align="center" style="line-height: normal; margin: 0px; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-OA3Ex_1YRk0/Wfmx2F9lKXI/AAAAAAAAWCo/GwlILW00gd8GQDM5A5yjLcj_UFMWnqH8ACLcBGAs/s1600/TK5.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="565" data-original-width="600" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-OA3Ex_1YRk0/Wfmx2F9lKXI/AAAAAAAAWCo/GwlILW00gd8GQDM5A5yjLcj_UFMWnqH8ACLcBGAs/s1600/TK5.png" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div align="center" style="line-height: normal; margin: 0px; text-align: center;">
<span style="color: black; font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 11.5pt; margin: 0px;">So that's what a scan of your scalp will look like
at the beginning. Essentially everyone's scalp tends to be ageing at a faster
rate because of our lifestyles, </span><span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 11.5pt; margin: 0px;">stress level,<span style="color: red; margin: 0px;"> </span><span style="color: black; margin: 0px;">environmental factors, lack of care... etc etc. So some
people's scalp age<b> </b>can be more than 5 years older than their actual
age! Thankfully mine was...</span></span></div>
<div align="center" style="line-height: normal; margin: 0px; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div align="center" style="line-height: normal; margin: 0px; text-align: center;">
<b><span style="color: black; font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 11.5pt; margin: 0px;">1 year older</span></b><span style="color: black; font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 11.5pt; margin: 0px;"></span></div>
<div align="center" style="line-height: normal; margin: 0px; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div align="center" style="line-height: normal; margin: 0px; text-align: center;">
<span style="color: black; font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 11.5pt; margin: 0px;">I'm currently 27 years old & my scalp was
deemed to be 28 years old.</span></div>
<div align="center" style="line-height: normal; margin: 0px; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div align="center" style="line-height: normal; margin: 0px; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 11.5pt; margin: 0px;">The Trichologist pointed out certain problem areas - I have a slightly
sensitive scalp as well as dry flakes & oil clogging up my pores, which will
affect hair growth<span style="color: red; margin: 0px;">. </span>So it was definitely time to
cleanse my scalp! </span></div>
<div align="center" style="line-height: normal; margin: 0px; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<img border="0" data-original-height="600" data-original-width="600" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Wjql3Mx9f5Q/Wfmx2pOfiHI/AAAAAAAAWCs/XdJVcT4bqagekxoKl5jMNY5XL43Vhu1lgCLcBGAs/s1600/TK6.png" /></div>
<div align="center" style="line-height: normal; margin: 0px; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div align="center" style="line-height: normal; margin: 0px; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 11.5pt; margin: 0px;">First up - </span><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="background: white; font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 11.5pt; letter-spacing: 0.4pt; margin: 0px;">Scalp Purification
Masque</span></i></b></div>
<div align="center" style="line-height: normal; margin: 0px; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div align="center" style="line-height: normal; margin: 0px; text-align: center;">
<span style="background: white; font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 11.5pt; letter-spacing: 0.4pt; margin: 0px;">This detoxifying mask was
customised based on my scalp condition! It helps to deeply cleanse the hair &
scalp by removing impurities & excess sebum. At the same time, it also
regulates & soothes the scalp to reduce redness. The entire masking takes
up to 20 minutes to allow my scalp to detox & absorb the nutrients.</span><span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 11.5pt; margin: 0px;"></span></div>
<div align="center" style="line-height: normal; margin: 0px; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-c4tgPMYCnnU/Wfmx3EN2PiI/AAAAAAAAWCw/7xvTUvTWxXkPpE1k5Psy9u8uI967OJ_HwCLcBGAs/s1600/TK7.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="451" data-original-width="600" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-c4tgPMYCnnU/Wfmx3EN2PiI/AAAAAAAAWCw/7xvTUvTWxXkPpE1k5Psy9u8uI967OJ_HwCLcBGAs/s1600/TK7.png" /></a></div>
<div align="center" style="line-height: normal; margin: 0px; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div align="center" style="line-height: normal; margin: 0px; text-align: center;">
<b><i><span style="color: black; font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 11.5pt; margin: 0px;">Deep Cleansing Herbal Wash</span></i></b><span style="color: black; font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 11.5pt; margin: 0px;"></span></div>
<div align="center" style="line-height: normal; margin: 0px; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div align="center" style="line-height: normal; margin: 0px; text-align: center;">
<span style="color: black; font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 11.5pt; margin: 0px;">What's a visit for hair treatment without an
awesome hair wash right</span><span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 11.5pt; margin: 0px;">? This
herbal wash helps to remove all the grime & dead skin cells, as well as regulate
the pH balance of the scalp to allow new hair to grow unimpeded.</span></div>
<div align="center" style="line-height: normal; margin: 0px; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-z3qUkP01dT4/WfmzWoOOnEI/AAAAAAAAWDE/-LtxM2N0gsI6Asic9VnTUk6kKnes09dCgCLcBGAs/s1600/TK8a.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="599" data-original-width="600" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-z3qUkP01dT4/WfmzWoOOnEI/AAAAAAAAWDE/-LtxM2N0gsI6Asic9VnTUk6kKnes09dCgCLcBGAs/s1600/TK8a.png" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div align="center" style="line-height: normal; margin: 0px; text-align: center;">
<span style="color: black; font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 11.5pt; margin: 0px;">Next up was the <b><i>Oxyjet Technology</i></b> -
a new innovation that uses air pressure jets which </span><span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 11.5pt; margin: 0px;">are an infusion of 98% pure
oxygen & nutrients to "shoot" deep into the layers of your scalp.<s></s></span></div>
<div align="center" style="line-height: normal; margin: 0px; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div align="center" style="line-height: normal; margin: 0px; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 11.5pt; margin: 0px;">The active ingredients are able to penetrate deep into the scalp without
needles, which means it is gentle & safe! It helps to improve blood circulation
& encourage the production of collagen, which in turn improves hair growth
& control hair fall.</span></div>
<div align="center" style="line-height: normal; margin: 0px; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div align="center" style="line-height: normal; margin: 0px; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 11.5pt; margin: 0px;">This treatment actually felt really comfortable because you experience a
cooling sensation on your scalp! </span></div>
<div align="center" style="line-height: normal; margin: 0px; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-uMJGzMr7IkE/WfmzfOIgrZI/AAAAAAAAWDI/MaS_O7TE_PoA3tE4L5j-vWmWgLZ14jNAACLcBGAs/s1600/TK9a.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="506" data-original-width="600" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-uMJGzMr7IkE/WfmzfOIgrZI/AAAAAAAAWDI/MaS_O7TE_PoA3tE4L5j-vWmWgLZ14jNAACLcBGAs/s1600/TK9a.png" /></a><span style="color: black; font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 11.5pt; margin: 0px;"></span></div>
<div align="center" style="line-height: normal; margin: 0px; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div align="center" style="line-height: normal; margin: 0px; text-align: center;">
<b><i><span style="color: black; font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 11.5pt; margin: 0px;">Infrared Therapy </span></i></b><span style="color: black; font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 11.5pt; margin: 0px;">- last but not least,
</span><span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 11.5pt; margin: 0px;">this step promotes intensive
regeneration & encourages cell renewa<span style="color: black; margin: 0px;">l to stimulate </span>hair growth, all while soothing your scalp.</span></div>
<div align="center" style="line-height: normal; margin: 0px; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div align="center" style="line-height: normal; margin: 0px; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-1XqZuVFvOZM/Wfmx2DdYoWI/AAAAAAAAWC8/mEs_vC_g6P0wch-nW4ckHPiQp_hmwtQSgCEwYBhgL/s1600/TK10.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="450" data-original-width="600" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-1XqZuVFvOZM/Wfmx2DdYoWI/AAAAAAAAWC8/mEs_vC_g6P0wch-nW4ckHPiQp_hmwtQSgCEwYBhgL/s1600/TK10.png" /></a></div>
<br />
<div align="center" style="line-height: normal; margin: 0px; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-tX7vmjdHiOM/WeepDw5PlsI/AAAAAAAAWAk/jt-aIqdW95YhEKAwbbMLDutE2f0yA_S0wCLcBGAs/s1600/TK9.jpg"><span style="color: black; font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 11.5pt; margin: 0px; text-decoration: none;"><span style="margin: 0px;"></span></span></a><span style="color: black; font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 11.5pt; margin: 0px;"></span></div>
<div align="center" style="line-height: normal; margin: 0px; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div align="center" style="line-height: normal; margin: 0px; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 11.5pt; margin: 0px;">After the 2-hour long pampering treatment, we took a look at my scalp
again & the comparison definitely speaks for itself!</span></div>
<div align="center" style="line-height: normal; margin: 0px; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div align="center" style="line-height: normal; margin: 0px; text-align: center;">
<span style="color: black; font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 11.5pt; margin: 0px;"></span><span style="color: black; font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 11.5pt; margin: 0px;"></span></div>
<div align="center" style="line-height: normal; margin: 0px; text-align: center;">
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-UusblRwkTws/Wfmx2Mb2Q5I/AAAAAAAAWC8/zsgwLBe98t0M0akJZFzTKShOF2AAUcFhACPcBGAYYCw/s1600/TK11.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="284" data-original-width="600" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-UusblRwkTws/Wfmx2Mb2Q5I/AAAAAAAAWC8/zsgwLBe98t0M0akJZFzTKShOF2AAUcFhACPcBGAYYCw/s1600/TK11.png" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<span style="color: black; font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 11.5pt; margin: 0px;"><br /></span></div>
<div align="center" style="line-height: normal; margin: 0px; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 11.5pt; margin: 0px;">In the Before image you can spot oil clogs & sebum build-up, but these
are gone in the After scan – where my scalp is visibly cleaner & clearer! This
is definitely something quite difficult to achieve at home. Overwashing or
washing too vigorously could aggravate the oil glands & damage your scalp
further, so nothing beats a good detox & cleansing session with TrichoKare<span style="color: black; margin: 0px;">.</span></span><span style="background: white; color: black; font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 11.5pt; margin: 0px;"> Definitely satisfied with the results!</span></div>
<div align="center" style="line-height: normal; margin: 0px; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div align="center" style="line-height: normal; margin: 0px; text-align: center;">
<span style="color: black; font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 11.5pt; margin: 0px;">We invest in many things - our skin, nails etc, but
often forget about our scalp, which needs a little TLC as well! And with
TrichoKare's generous promotion, there's no better time:</span></div>
<div align="center" style="line-height: normal; margin: 0px; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div align="center" style="line-height: normal; margin: 0px; text-align: center;">
<span style="color: black; font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 18pt; margin: 0px;">Get </span><span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 18pt; margin: 0px;">the <b><i>Advanced Age Defying Hair Treatment</i></b> at
just S$40 nett, inclusive of a HairGRO Ampoule + Hair Care Kit (<span style="color: black; margin: 0px;">U.P.</span> S$758)!</span><span style="color: black; font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 11.5pt; margin: 0px;"></span></div>
<div align="center" style="line-height: normal; margin: 0px; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div align="center" style="line-height: normal; margin: 0px; text-align: center;">
<span style="color: black; font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 11.5pt; margin: 0px;">You'll get to go through the same treatment I did
above </span><span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 11.5pt; margin: 0px;">& see
the difference for yourself!<span style="color: red; margin: 0px;"> </span><span style="color: black; margin: 0px;">Here are the benefits you'll be able to look forward to:</span></span></div>
<div align="center" style="line-height: normal; margin: 0px; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div align="center" style="line-height: normal; margin: 0px; text-align: center;">
<b><span style="color: black; font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 11.5pt; margin: 0px;">Scalp Detox // Strengthen Hair Roots //
Increase Hair Density</span></b><span style="color: black; font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 11.5pt; margin: 0px;"></span></div>
<div align="center" style="line-height: normal; margin: 0px; text-align: center;">
<b><span style="color: black; font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 11.5pt; margin: 0px;">Restore Lustre // Moisturise &
Soften Hair // Reverse Grey Hair</span></b><span style="color: black; font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 11.5pt; margin: 0px;"></span></div>
<div align="center" style="line-height: normal; margin: 0px; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div align="center" style="line-height: normal; margin: 0px; text-align: center;">
<span style="color: black; font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 11.5pt; margin: 0px;">Click below to find out more & start your own
haircare & scalp journey!</span></div>
<div align="center" style="line-height: normal; margin: 0px; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div align="center" style="margin: 0px 0px 11px; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://tk-hair.com/brt/"><span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; margin: 0px;"><span style="color: #0563c1; font-size: large;">http://tk-hair.com/brt/</span></span></a><span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; margin: 0px;"></span></div>
<div align="center" style="margin: 0px 0px 11px; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;"></span><br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "calibri";"></span><br /></div>
</div>
sophiewillocqhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14949085151032830398noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-19447173.post-15526135332271109082017-05-02T23:49:00.000+08:002017-05-02T23:49:16.181+08:00Tangs Island Cafe<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Cas8CCRtWO0/WQiJA1WPhGI/AAAAAAAAV60/AxOWf93-ov8dtzSI-o7HJJkMjOadT7GigCEw/s1600/FIVH4140.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Cas8CCRtWO0/WQiJA1WPhGI/AAAAAAAAV60/AxOWf93-ov8dtzSI-o7HJJkMjOadT7GigCEw/s640/FIVH4140.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Met up with Sherry & Rachel some time back to check out the Island Cafe at Tangs!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
The last time I went up Tangs, I was a little girl & it used to be quite an ordinary restaurant.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
I'm loving the new beach-resort feel!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Anyhow, Sherry & Rachel are my friends from St Margaret's, meaning I've known them since I was in Secondary 3... way back in 2005! Good lord, that's over a decade ago. Way to feel old wtf.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-5EUx7bVqPZg/WQiJH98emXI/AAAAAAAAV6c/A4Ma0FPG3rMGt7J-f4yx6SapoyGVYZnpgCLcB/s1600/IMG_4573.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-5EUx7bVqPZg/WQiJH98emXI/AAAAAAAAV6c/A4Ma0FPG3rMGt7J-f4yx6SapoyGVYZnpgCLcB/s1600/IMG_4573.jpg" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Kfsi6K0Cm3A/WQiJIfnUYPI/AAAAAAAAV60/zDpl4KE7VokGG5VNy-4_sEez3VsThBO7wCEw/s1600/IMG_4575.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Kfsi6K0Cm3A/WQiJIfnUYPI/AAAAAAAAV60/zDpl4KE7VokGG5VNy-4_sEez3VsThBO7wCEw/s640/IMG_4575.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-4psQR-LOCFE/WQiJA7WnStI/AAAAAAAAV60/PEszTXohgx0vqIqMZgcXGmlLyGAGMV4_ACEw/s1600/IMG_4551.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-4psQR-LOCFE/WQiJA7WnStI/AAAAAAAAV60/PEszTXohgx0vqIqMZgcXGmlLyGAGMV4_ACEw/s1600/IMG_4551.jpg" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
I actually really like the modern resort feel & it's something I'd consider for my own home, especially the living area. Think I'd go for modern/industrial with lots of greenery! That's the idea, but I actually have no green thumbs whatsoever hahahaha #fakeplants.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-c5KZwcqOHWE/WPzhZf3ImzI/AAAAAAAAV5k/mdIZ8t3zjq8dl0D4OwBGrwHwpfy2OkQ5QCLcB/s1600/IMG_4552.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-c5KZwcqOHWE/WPzhZf3ImzI/AAAAAAAAV5k/mdIZ8t3zjq8dl0D4OwBGrwHwpfy2OkQ5QCLcB/s1600/IMG_4552.jpg" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ssJXzNpgiSQ/WQiJHINmH8I/AAAAAAAAV60/dqEtQgzNqg4lwETu9jFJGTNRwkE0H9n4wCEw/s1600/IMG_4555.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ssJXzNpgiSQ/WQiJHINmH8I/AAAAAAAAV60/dqEtQgzNqg4lwETu9jFJGTNRwkE0H9n4wCEw/s1600/IMG_4555.jpg" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-AJ7zUicyPj8/WQiJAulTGeI/AAAAAAAAV60/kB8XKmIUCroUX4UlAv-qS9GeSMwuRFHtwCEw/s1600/IMG_4550.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-AJ7zUicyPj8/WQiJAulTGeI/AAAAAAAAV60/kB8XKmIUCroUX4UlAv-qS9GeSMwuRFHtwCEw/s640/IMG_4550.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
I had some form of Ayam Penyet or something, which was not bad. But like most locals I think it feels odd to pay $20ish for a local dish that I can get in more "authentic" settings at maybe $4.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Duvods7jgwE/WQiJHXmA1tI/AAAAAAAAV60/O8b6F-0HUnEy3FFLSS_qUqvAYskCH6HKACEw/s1600/IMG_4563.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Duvods7jgwE/WQiJHXmA1tI/AAAAAAAAV60/O8b6F-0HUnEy3FFLSS_qUqvAYskCH6HKACEw/s1600/IMG_4563.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-muQVJV-5iFo/WQiJHBRdPjI/AAAAAAAAV60/pxdvcKXNmKUlR20yxgqvuxsC8wSTYVnFACEw/s1600/IMG_4567.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-muQVJV-5iFo/WQiJHBRdPjI/AAAAAAAAV60/pxdvcKXNmKUlR20yxgqvuxsC8wSTYVnFACEw/s1600/IMG_4567.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-hda2gzrgcnQ/WQiJH5gba7I/AAAAAAAAV60/_skzM2WGDOc_O-AeFRM20TeF_pmWmCT6wCEw/s1600/IMG_4569.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-hda2gzrgcnQ/WQiJH5gba7I/AAAAAAAAV60/_skzM2WGDOc_O-AeFRM20TeF_pmWmCT6wCEw/s640/IMG_4569.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-KIz3juStlcE/WQiJH3FaXTI/AAAAAAAAV60/WPDaWggF91EqBXxoqf1YvteHuBRy6QPpACEw/s1600/IMG_4571.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-KIz3juStlcE/WQiJH3FaXTI/AAAAAAAAV60/WPDaWggF91EqBXxoqf1YvteHuBRy6QPpACEw/s640/IMG_4571.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
And these pictures below were all taken by Rachel's iPhone 7 Plus.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
The detail was amazing! It's pretty much what got me seriously interested in the 7 Plus when I was previously quite content with my iPhone 6S. But ironically ever since getting the iPhone 7 Plus, guess what? I HAVE NOT USED THE PORTRAIT MODE A SINGLE TIME.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
HAHA.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
P.S. Yes you need to use the "Portrait" mode to get the front-sharp-back-blurred effect as below:</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/--c6pvazpwok/WQiJISMkn2I/AAAAAAAAV60/slFEdKVq_rUX4Tv9LW3smICAWTplMmK4gCEw/s1600/IMG_7626.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/--c6pvazpwok/WQiJISMkn2I/AAAAAAAAV60/slFEdKVq_rUX4Tv9LW3smICAWTplMmK4gCEw/s640/IMG_7626.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-CLQtYIie0Ug/WQiJIXSIOtI/AAAAAAAAV60/c1XKjjGXnq8ElLr__zxGXCL-hUWffOhbwCEw/s1600/IMG_7633.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-CLQtYIie0Ug/WQiJIXSIOtI/AAAAAAAAV60/c1XKjjGXnq8ElLr__zxGXCL-hUWffOhbwCEw/s1600/IMG_7633.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-U0oqXO3kW0I/WQiJIwgV1SI/AAAAAAAAV60/CaNsxrZN6kcNsohLxVYzJqr_phR7UrmYwCEw/s1600/IMG_7635.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-U0oqXO3kW0I/WQiJIwgV1SI/AAAAAAAAV60/CaNsxrZN6kcNsohLxVYzJqr_phR7UrmYwCEw/s1600/IMG_7635.jpg" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
For a handphone this is pretty damn impressive.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
I come from the eras of the original handphones which WERE NOT IN COLOUR.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Then we got colour. Then we got a camera. Then we got a <b>front camera</b>. And the rest is history.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Of course these still can't rival proper DSLRs or even semi-pros, but for a nifty gadget it's not bad.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Anyone who owns a DSLR can tell you how bloody cumbersome it is to lug it around.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
In addition.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
I have somehow misplaced the charging cable.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Well done to myself...</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<br /></div>
sophiewillocqhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14949085151032830398noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-19447173.post-13032642148988843452017-04-20T02:26:00.000+08:002017-04-20T02:33:02.312+08:00VIETNAM FOR VIET-NOMS<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
Flew up to Ho Chi Minh City in March over the weekend for Daphne's birthday trip! In total we were 6 girls on a #girlfriendsphoever trip - Daphne was trying to think of a suitable hashtag & yours truly came up with that. Ok fine it was basically a rip-off of #phoeverfriends.
<br />
<br />
Here's everything we got up to over the 4 days, chronicled entirely on my iPhone 7 Plus :)<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-BgqBV4NvquE/WPUBKeHSuhI/AAAAAAAAV0g/MUwXyMmFA684PS3ftLIOkNahNjBEn61pACLcB/s1600/IMG_2910.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-BgqBV4NvquE/WPUBKeHSuhI/AAAAAAAAV0g/MUwXyMmFA684PS3ftLIOkNahNjBEn61pACLcB/s400/IMG_2910.jpg" width="285" /></a>
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-AssM26RGoYw/WPUBKQh5d0I/AAAAAAAAV0c/3WRmzY9qZTAMMWxREJvBAqe9nKh-qc2-ACLcB/s1600/IMG_2912.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-AssM26RGoYw/WPUBKQh5d0I/AAAAAAAAV0c/3WRmzY9qZTAMMWxREJvBAqe9nKh-qc2-ACLcB/s400/IMG_2912.jpg" width="285" /></a></div>
<br />
So yeah there I was happily minding my own business watching Moana (after hearing how it's really good & all that; it was slightly underwhelming). Daphne was beside me & she was fiddling with her hand sanitiser when lo & behold... She got the cap open & a shot of hand sanitiser flew out & hit me square in the eye. HOW DOES THIS STUFF HAPPEN TO ME LIKE WHAT ARE THE ODDS.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">
As you can see my eye is super red & in the beginning it was burning SO BADLY.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">
I was clutching my face & tearing like crazy. I couldn't open my eye at all!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">
Me: *rubbing my eye frantically & tearing like mad*</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">
Daphne: "Omg your eyelash extensions!"</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">
Me: "I DON'T CARE"</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">
LOL #priorities...</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-7muhSIhTkYM/WPUBmuXppNI/AAAAAAAAV0k/9HsKe0NlyV8U8M6glWDVPGYtTGsH_MgmQCLcB/s1600/IMG_2916.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-7muhSIhTkYM/WPUBmuXppNI/AAAAAAAAV0k/9HsKe0NlyV8U8M6glWDVPGYtTGsH_MgmQCLcB/s400/IMG_2916.jpg" width="285" /></a>
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-mQx0PdqyEr0/WPUBnkpW9GI/AAAAAAAAV0o/_4HR3ticakAUD-lMFTtJAXAxbaFJgILGgCLcB/s1600/IMG_1359.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-mQx0PdqyEr0/WPUBnkpW9GI/AAAAAAAAV0o/_4HR3ticakAUD-lMFTtJAXAxbaFJgILGgCLcB/s400/IMG_1359.jpg" width="285" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">
Speaking of which, check out the size of Daphne's luggage haha. She looks more like she's going on a 3-week long vacation rather than a 4D3N. And yup there's my battered green suitcase which has followed me on so many flights around the world! That's the exact suitcase I used to use even for my 3-week long trips to Europe wtf #packingskillswin.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ma0lL9GZ8i8/WPUCUsAPLKI/AAAAAAAAV0w/bFYfwWijFE4e5h6YQVLOY6pKiYfZAT3LgCLcB/s1600/IMG_3465.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ma0lL9GZ8i8/WPUCUsAPLKI/AAAAAAAAV0w/bFYfwWijFE4e5h6YQVLOY6pKiYfZAT3LgCLcB/s400/IMG_3465.jpg" width="285" /></a>
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-KrdqpKMHz5Q/WPUCV9XncgI/AAAAAAAAV00/lNt0LCw7cc0zrplxjK1FLUxwg5fs81AZACLcB/s1600/IMG_2933.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-KrdqpKMHz5Q/WPUCV9XncgI/AAAAAAAAV00/lNt0LCw7cc0zrplxjK1FLUxwg5fs81AZACLcB/s400/IMG_2933.jpg" width="285" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">
So there's my outfit OOTD which basically usually involves jeans for practical airplane-seating as well as a cardigan for cold air-conditioning! And featuring Daphne's Rimowa as my prop since my own suitcase looks terrible.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">
And we got a great recommendation from our hotel for a proper legit hair salon just opposite that was modern & fairly posh, yet cost only S$11 for a hair wash! As someone with very long hair, I hate having to wash it because it's such a drag. A hair treatment at the same salon only costs S$28 or so but unfortunately I didn't get time to do it before I left!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-TyNM-W0xYjc/WPUDgAOpqQI/AAAAAAAAV1E/g6RLk4-sSfA6qdQostNBOM2kcfrryg2dACLcB/s1600/IMG_2938.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-TyNM-W0xYjc/WPUDgAOpqQI/AAAAAAAAV1E/g6RLk4-sSfA6qdQostNBOM2kcfrryg2dACLcB/s400/IMG_2938.jpg" width="285" /></a>
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-DqMK7ABScqM/WPUDgElMDFI/AAAAAAAAV08/EHNff-xkoggMwYW7OMIMqfxLC8CTjK73gCLcB/s1600/IMG_2937.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-DqMK7ABScqM/WPUDgElMDFI/AAAAAAAAV08/EHNff-xkoggMwYW7OMIMqfxLC8CTjK73gCLcB/s400/IMG_2937.jpg" width="285" /></a> </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-s2tN4f9qozY/WPUDgh7P_pI/AAAAAAAAV1I/BY5oIlQ-EeoIyxyasC5RyvCXbhSRTd1cQCLcB/s1600/IMG_2941.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-s2tN4f9qozY/WPUDgh7P_pI/AAAAAAAAV1I/BY5oIlQ-EeoIyxyasC5RyvCXbhSRTd1cQCLcB/s400/IMG_2941.jpg" width="285" /></a>
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Uie3_XPtJzI/WPUDgM9Pi1I/AAAAAAAAV1A/qusB48ko-YwqX9ROV2Kfo0QroTYGOPN7ACLcB/s1600/IMG_2940.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Uie3_XPtJzI/WPUDgM9Pi1I/AAAAAAAAV1A/qusB48ko-YwqX9ROV2Kfo0QroTYGOPN7ACLcB/s400/IMG_2940.jpg" width="285" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">
After taking a short nap we headed out to explore the surrounding area & one of the restaurants along our road was running an oyster promotion that day! <b><i>Urban Kitchen & Bar</i></b> was industrial-chic & pretty affordable for the "poshness". The oysters (both fresh & baked, which I wasn't a fan of) were about S$1 - $1.50 each & I think we got 20 in total or something haha.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-8TreEMtGqJQ/WPZjBrzGk2I/AAAAAAAAV1Y/QMmnvDASdzgw6CYBSQqtKUpaNk25rHx3QCLcB/s1600/IMG_2956.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-8TreEMtGqJQ/WPZjBrzGk2I/AAAAAAAAV1Y/QMmnvDASdzgw6CYBSQqtKUpaNk25rHx3QCLcB/s400/IMG_2956.jpg" width="285" /></a>
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-udu1Zr_2dbc/WPZjDp5nu0I/AAAAAAAAV1c/rImshllik4YiIJBxvcB2P91NJzGQ4nYjgCLcB/s1600/IMG_3518.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-udu1Zr_2dbc/WPZjDp5nu0I/AAAAAAAAV1c/rImshllik4YiIJBxvcB2P91NJzGQ4nYjgCLcB/s400/IMG_3518.jpg" width="285" /></a>
</div>
<br />
Girlfriends L-R: Jacqueline, Daphne, Sheena, myself & Maggie! Missing Rebekah. Think we didn't actually manage to get one picture that had the entire 6-girls #girlfriendsphoever team.<br />
<br />
And so the story with my outfit is... I've owned this white top since 2013 & I had no issues fitting into it back then. So I didn't think anything more of it when I chucked it into my suitcase. Then in Vietnam I pulled it on &... I couldn't zip it up. Like, absolutely could not.<br />
<br />
So what did I do?<br />
<br />
Nothing. I let it be HAHA.<br />
I considered it a "DIY" bareback top since it was zipped up halfway at the back. I simply tucked in the sides so the back became a V-shape. Ingenious right?<br />
<br />
At dinner I burst a seam moving slightly. Ok never mind.<br />
<br />
Then... a strap almost snapped completely. It was barely hanging by a thread.<br />
WTF. OK TIME TO FACE FACTS.<br />
<br />
Had to head back to the hotel to change...................<br />
.................<br />
.................<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-2949XiO53bo/WPZjKJTj-xI/AAAAAAAAV1g/RFI2T2fUKOksk9GZPNGFSe5qfViOmBMngCLcB/s1600/IMG_2960.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-2949XiO53bo/WPZjKJTj-xI/AAAAAAAAV1g/RFI2T2fUKOksk9GZPNGFSe5qfViOmBMngCLcB/s400/IMG_2960.jpg" width="285" /></a>
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-BLpNGEU2SOM/WPZjKFoOnHI/AAAAAAAAV1k/3ac8VHdGfm0HNicLxbS3OYFmQDwK2oR4QCLcB/s1600/IMG_2978.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-BLpNGEU2SOM/WPZjKFoOnHI/AAAAAAAAV1k/3ac8VHdGfm0HNicLxbS3OYFmQDwK2oR4QCLcB/s400/IMG_2978.jpg" width="285" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">
So after dinner at <b><i>El Gaucho Steakhouse</i></b> which is really famous, we headed to <b><i>Penthouse Rooftop Lounge</i></b>! It's not actually on a rooftop, nor is it really a lounge lounge. It's pretty much a club.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-2lNPV1ojwJ0/WPeAvWJ52BI/AAAAAAAAV14/v0REiVc4U_UfDxtLVX5bRsPUVlwyR1TiQCLcB/s1600/IMG_2987.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-2lNPV1ojwJ0/WPeAvWJ52BI/AAAAAAAAV14/v0REiVc4U_UfDxtLVX5bRsPUVlwyR1TiQCLcB/s400/IMG_2987.jpg" width="285" /></a>
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Jj8UaLGaAbw/WPeAwWmc6FI/AAAAAAAAV2A/x2CFuc7moRcCGfSycXg_5sg5Hv3eTleuQCLcB/s1600/IMG_3112.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Jj8UaLGaAbw/WPeAwWmc6FI/AAAAAAAAV2A/x2CFuc7moRcCGfSycXg_5sg5Hv3eTleuQCLcB/s400/IMG_3112.jpg" width="285" /></a>
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-mNOpKPimtA8/WPeAweu6sMI/AAAAAAAAV18/moDNHA_i29IQfzL1m6m91SH9W-E8POz8QCLcB/s1600/IMG_3113.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-mNOpKPimtA8/WPeAweu6sMI/AAAAAAAAV18/moDNHA_i29IQfzL1m6m91SH9W-E8POz8QCLcB/s400/IMG_3113.jpg" width="285" /></a>
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-zOxYsYJU15U/WPeAy80uaQI/AAAAAAAAV2E/9Ivrcb6lh24VNCd0_gX1Qw12FpT4zoChwCLcB/s1600/IMG_3533.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-zOxYsYJU15U/WPeAy80uaQI/AAAAAAAAV2E/9Ivrcb6lh24VNCd0_gX1Qw12FpT4zoChwCLcB/s400/IMG_3533.jpg" width="285" /></a>
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">
I'd have to say the Vietnamese really know how to party! The service staff were super attentive & it's so cute how they serve a platter of fruits hahaha. And Singapore banned shisha entirely a few years back. I remember going to Arab Street for shisha back when it was still common.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-_H-RmBlf6Mo/WPeA_HggphI/AAAAAAAAV2U/dEUAdXWsNDMrIgCV90bS_wAQ4-60ZmKPACEw/s1600/IMG_3114.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-_H-RmBlf6Mo/WPeA_HggphI/AAAAAAAAV2U/dEUAdXWsNDMrIgCV90bS_wAQ4-60ZmKPACEw/s400/IMG_3114.jpg" width="285" /></a>
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-M5jC-Dpdxvg/WPeBFcsxZ5I/AAAAAAAAV2U/JIDCjOu-D5EBWQY3kdU2NY7BU2C6-VVvwCEw/s1600/IMG_3023.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-M5jC-Dpdxvg/WPeBFcsxZ5I/AAAAAAAAV2U/JIDCjOu-D5EBWQY3kdU2NY7BU2C6-VVvwCEw/s400/IMG_3023.jpg" width="285" /></a>
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">
The next day we got up early-ish & headed to this local restaurant famous for serving crab dishes!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">
Ok wow the address is kinda difficult; you really need Vietnamese friends lol.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">
<b><i>Thuy Restaurant</i></b></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">
<b><i>84 Đinh Tiên Hoàng, Đa Kao, Quận 1</i></b></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">
The food was really good & the crabmeat was really generous! </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">
Loved the crabmeat beehoon & spring rolls.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-n3Q50GHKEQA/WPeMsq47dpI/AAAAAAAAV24/4ZT3ChNRUG87NnaLZs5fW_J8lCMtdR8lgCLcB/s1600/IMG_3479.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-n3Q50GHKEQA/WPeMsq47dpI/AAAAAAAAV24/4ZT3ChNRUG87NnaLZs5fW_J8lCMtdR8lgCLcB/s400/IMG_3479.jpg" width="285" /></a>
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-HMZ9r0C5eFE/WPeMoA3QXjI/AAAAAAAAV2k/LV5rt2nk-FMDB4B08aJsBC9R3WwK7b-3wCLcB/s1600/IMG_3117.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-HMZ9r0C5eFE/WPeMoA3QXjI/AAAAAAAAV2k/LV5rt2nk-FMDB4B08aJsBC9R3WwK7b-3wCLcB/s400/IMG_3117.jpg" width="285" /></a>
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-hk7nzmlQC8M/WPeMptpatgI/AAAAAAAAV20/CR4AUvgsfAQFtA9JrFzOFXiyvUIHIWsigCLcB/s1600/IMG_3098.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-hk7nzmlQC8M/WPeMptpatgI/AAAAAAAAV20/CR4AUvgsfAQFtA9JrFzOFXiyvUIHIWsigCLcB/s400/IMG_3098.jpg" width="285" /></a>
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-agkgxh8Bphc/WPeMoGyalqI/AAAAAAAAV2g/hdW0LGB4h185cTXzJOvu1fL2Qyw1m5jEwCLcB/s1600/IMG_3118.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-agkgxh8Bphc/WPeMoGyalqI/AAAAAAAAV2g/hdW0LGB4h185cTXzJOvu1fL2Qyw1m5jEwCLcB/s400/IMG_3118.jpg" width="285" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">
Our friends brought us to this indoor shopping space called The New Playground which was full of lots of really cool shops! Lots of cute clothes & accessories & each shop was well-decorated. Prices were still very reasonable as well, ranging from S$10 - S$40.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">
<b><i>The New Playground</i></b></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">
<b><i>26 Lý Tự Trọng, Bến Nghé, Quận 1</i></b></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-vdlrVRYU0wA/WPeQNM69Y_I/AAAAAAAAV3I/tGAfWzDpV-EgLJDwLil2MGo8r82xzjvpgCLcB/s1600/IMG_3356.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-vdlrVRYU0wA/WPeQNM69Y_I/AAAAAAAAV3I/tGAfWzDpV-EgLJDwLil2MGo8r82xzjvpgCLcB/s400/IMG_3356.jpg" width="285" /></a><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-KK_LnnvqRr0/WPeQP3gudfI/AAAAAAAAV3M/YXvtlf1_T1UfpuiSpPkC4QKVy7f6W1mfgCLcB/s1600/IMG_3359.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-KK_LnnvqRr0/WPeQP3gudfI/AAAAAAAAV3M/YXvtlf1_T1UfpuiSpPkC4QKVy7f6W1mfgCLcB/s400/IMG_3359.jpg" width="285" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">
Bought quite a few accessories on this trip! Hehe happy.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-hALWDxeWVfw/WPeMo4xP9bI/AAAAAAAAV3A/Q-AqP470vfESzyRR3qJ_ez4JdruZJ_IagCEw/s1600/IMG_3132.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-hALWDxeWVfw/WPeMo4xP9bI/AAAAAAAAV3A/Q-AqP470vfESzyRR3qJ_ez4JdruZJ_IagCEw/s400/IMG_3132.jpg" width="285" /></a>
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-DpPfOZVKtIU/WPeMo2Grl_I/AAAAAAAAV3A/vSPtRLIr934DxTcSgse6_r36bEqIattVwCEw/s1600/IMG_3191.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-DpPfOZVKtIU/WPeMo2Grl_I/AAAAAAAAV3A/vSPtRLIr934DxTcSgse6_r36bEqIattVwCEw/s400/IMG_3191.jpg" width="285" /></a>
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-nWuv8CfSwhs/WPeMub2ZDwI/AAAAAAAAV3A/KTlpafARsVIL6J9wzvTjkJ5S6D789OnqgCEw/s1600/IMG_3694.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-nWuv8CfSwhs/WPeMub2ZDwI/AAAAAAAAV3A/KTlpafARsVIL6J9wzvTjkJ5S6D789OnqgCEw/s400/IMG_3694.jpg" width="285" /></a>
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-VLtkLYOVapA/WPeMocxCKVI/AAAAAAAAV3A/eY_24--WrCEbdMgMqJXPDlsDjMy5ClG-wCEw/s1600/IMG_3129.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-VLtkLYOVapA/WPeMocxCKVI/AAAAAAAAV3A/eY_24--WrCEbdMgMqJXPDlsDjMy5ClG-wCEw/s400/IMG_3129.jpg" width="285" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">
<b><i>42 Nguyễn Huệ, Bến Nghé, Quận 1</i></b></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">
Have you seen those Vietnamese apartment blocks where every unit is a cafe or boutique?</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">
We stopped at one of those for a tea break! It's pretty nice sitting at the narrow balconies overlooking the bustling streets below.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-3uJEolRL62E/WPef3L5krGI/AAAAAAAAV3c/a4qmkBQn86QT6hJRmv0vE9Jxc5nU44djwCLcB/s1600/IMG_3202.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-3uJEolRL62E/WPef3L5krGI/AAAAAAAAV3c/a4qmkBQn86QT6hJRmv0vE9Jxc5nU44djwCLcB/s400/IMG_3202.jpg" width="285" /></a>
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-3oJF_0LlhRs/WPef5n2xFuI/AAAAAAAAV3g/AJyazbc1qYQxsIhEUIT3-fKi-qx0KMZpQCLcB/s1600/IMG_3652.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-3oJF_0LlhRs/WPef5n2xFuI/AAAAAAAAV3g/AJyazbc1qYQxsIhEUIT3-fKi-qx0KMZpQCLcB/s400/IMG_3652.jpg" width="285" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">
Grabbed dinner at <b><i>l'Usine</i></b>, which is a French restaurant which a super pretty interior!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">
It's supposed to be quite well-known as well but we found the food to be pretty ordinary cafe fare. Luckily the prices are very reasonable so we ordered A TON of food & ate ourselves silly.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">
<b><i>l'Usine</i></b></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">
<b><i>70B Le Loi, District 1</i></b></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-SF0vLvkCoaE/WPegza7BREI/AAAAAAAAV3s/-lOFImJcAPYoBU4aVIDlQzFRMteXO-13ACLcB/s1600/IMG_3239.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-SF0vLvkCoaE/WPegza7BREI/AAAAAAAAV3s/-lOFImJcAPYoBU4aVIDlQzFRMteXO-13ACLcB/s400/IMG_3239.jpg" width="285" /></a>
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ISjHVmFGW44/WPegzQ6Nu1I/AAAAAAAAV3o/LndnJvGMVGwj-IJmjgMVvXnutPeM7hKzwCLcB/s1600/IMG_3267.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ISjHVmFGW44/WPegzQ6Nu1I/AAAAAAAAV3o/LndnJvGMVGwj-IJmjgMVvXnutPeM7hKzwCLcB/s400/IMG_3267.jpg" width="285" /></a>
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-eVKRPp1qF70/WPehu-hhe6I/AAAAAAAAV4M/1SKpN3nNyeQisHYvvH9IMscPV5jNko-OgCLcB/s1600/IMG_3746.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-eVKRPp1qF70/WPehu-hhe6I/AAAAAAAAV4M/1SKpN3nNyeQisHYvvH9IMscPV5jNko-OgCLcB/s400/IMG_3746.jpg" width="285" /></a>
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-hnKJrALPAZI/WPeifY6F1CI/AAAAAAAAV4U/UVgRwL1Aj3YWyHYiYMcBmu9CJodfv1A4QCLcB/s1600/IMG_9151.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-hnKJrALPAZI/WPeifY6F1CI/AAAAAAAAV4U/UVgRwL1Aj3YWyHYiYMcBmu9CJodfv1A4QCLcB/s400/IMG_9151.jpg" width="285" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">
Drinks at <b><i>Glow</i></b>, which is a 2-storey rooftop bar overlooking the city! Views here were really nice but cocktails pricey, averaging about S$18 each. And after that it was back to <b><i>Penthouse</i></b>! Ok the 2 pictures really look like the difference between your own photos versus tagged photos hahaha.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-jGSVf6qIVGs/WPehoGtfzJI/AAAAAAAAV4Q/iKYMNneYzHEkQ-SDKt62lqceSCQ9QBCvgCEw/s1600/IMG_3270.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-jGSVf6qIVGs/WPehoGtfzJI/AAAAAAAAV4Q/iKYMNneYzHEkQ-SDKt62lqceSCQ9QBCvgCEw/s400/IMG_3270.jpg" width="285" /></a>
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-JrrbPrHaZh4/WPehqmRfKQI/AAAAAAAAV4Q/--ArJtfbuHkFoRZjmXYrsstkHHLw8F4VQCEw/s1600/IMG_3884.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-JrrbPrHaZh4/WPehqmRfKQI/AAAAAAAAV4Q/--ArJtfbuHkFoRZjmXYrsstkHHLw8F4VQCEw/s400/IMG_3884.jpg" width="285" /></a>
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-xFIG0LNUSRc/WPehoIdEIQI/AAAAAAAAV4Q/TR4H_NJmq4kvkCgG_XcHZzK5CMeWmTonQCEw/s1600/IMG_3284.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-xFIG0LNUSRc/WPehoIdEIQI/AAAAAAAAV4Q/TR4H_NJmq4kvkCgG_XcHZzK5CMeWmTonQCEw/s400/IMG_3284.jpg" width="285" /></a>
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-7UeXXTyzhVw/WPehoN2LKhI/AAAAAAAAV4Q/SVLker231DEnu2TRMYBgO6QH1E8AXucjACEw/s1600/IMG_3285.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-7UeXXTyzhVw/WPehoN2LKhI/AAAAAAAAV4Q/SVLker231DEnu2TRMYBgO6QH1E8AXucjACEw/s400/IMG_3285.jpg" width="285" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">
Lunch the next day at <b><i>Pizza 4Ps</i></b> which was really good! This restaurant can get pretty crowded so do consider making a reservation first! Please take into account the popularity of this place.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">
Again prices were really reasonable & food was great! Their crab pasta is pretty famous & the cheese appetisers above were so good that we reordered them a second time!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">
<b><i>Pizza 4Ps</i></b></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">
<b><i>8/15 Le Thanh Ton, District 1</i></b></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-kVwhs71zOgc/WPehs27J_2I/AAAAAAAAV4Q/w4XbEhxbdCQ0X4QSPjw_YsCyXif9t7qNQCEw/s1600/IMG_3357.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-kVwhs71zOgc/WPehs27J_2I/AAAAAAAAV4Q/w4XbEhxbdCQ0X4QSPjw_YsCyXif9t7qNQCEw/s400/IMG_3357.jpg" width="285" /></a>
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-CorO2eqbXzc/WPehs3Ce_bI/AAAAAAAAV4Q/C8oAh1Gx89wxJyOfxLdDwYp23gPc94lJQCEw/s1600/IMG_3358.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-CorO2eqbXzc/WPehs3Ce_bI/AAAAAAAAV4Q/C8oAh1Gx89wxJyOfxLdDwYp23gPc94lJQCEw/s400/IMG_3358.jpg" width="285" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">
Haha the Vietnamese Dong took some getting used to because their currency runs really large.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">
And yes wtf I packed 3 pairs of shoes, wore 1, bought 1 at the airport & finally bought 1 more in Ho Chi Minh. So I wound up with 6 pairs of shoes for 4D3N #overkill #HCMFashionWeek</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-wdDmErwr0jw/WPekvA80UEI/AAAAAAAAV4g/_dt70JvNbMMOBg55W5HZyYVx65gk6NlpwCLcB/s1600/IMG_3398.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-wdDmErwr0jw/WPekvA80UEI/AAAAAAAAV4g/_dt70JvNbMMOBg55W5HZyYVx65gk6NlpwCLcB/s400/IMG_3398.jpg" width="285" /></a>
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-JQ7n2JB1qkI/WPelui3ojaI/AAAAAAAAV5M/UnYpOR9cXcUztcl-P8iXxWJSPeSiJbv_ACLcB/s1600/IMG_3399.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-JQ7n2JB1qkI/WPelui3ojaI/AAAAAAAAV5M/UnYpOR9cXcUztcl-P8iXxWJSPeSiJbv_ACLcB/s400/IMG_3399.jpg" width="285" /></a>
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-XFiNSg8KTCs/WPekvE1oiFI/AAAAAAAAV4o/S_YYk_AtYP0W31MqcPVSa80a-nteJw0GQCLcB/s1600/IMG_3368.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-XFiNSg8KTCs/WPekvE1oiFI/AAAAAAAAV4o/S_YYk_AtYP0W31MqcPVSa80a-nteJw0GQCLcB/s400/IMG_3368.jpg" width="285" /></a>
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Xt0pa1uV818/WPekwWl13nI/AAAAAAAAV4s/U_CxAIdcJccHMSiyPFXrtdefJx50Lp-uwCLcB/s1600/IMG_3714.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Xt0pa1uV818/WPekwWl13nI/AAAAAAAAV4s/U_CxAIdcJccHMSiyPFXrtdefJx50Lp-uwCLcB/s400/IMG_3714.jpg" width="285" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">
The girls wanted to head out one last time & luckily I had a spare dress to wear. Looks like a party dress but in reality it's just a basic dress from H&M in size 34, a.k.a. too small for me so it became a minidress. We headed out to <b><i>Qui Cuisine Mixology</i></b>, which is another famous bar.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">
<b><i>22 Lê Thánh Tôn, Bến Nghé, Quận 1</i></b></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">
The cocktails were again a bit on the high side though & were very comparable to posher bars in Singapore. This big cocktail bowl came up to S$100 :O</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ee-oytqJ9jk/WPek2rGm11I/AAAAAAAAV5I/AaUeUNmPQqczv4kwcy6uTzy0upbzmeM7ACEw/s1600/IMG_3448.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ee-oytqJ9jk/WPek2rGm11I/AAAAAAAAV5I/AaUeUNmPQqczv4kwcy6uTzy0upbzmeM7ACEw/s400/IMG_3448.jpg" width="285" /></a>
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-OKyGd0GA4TA/WPek2DIwbbI/AAAAAAAAV5I/7IMWkQGG9jkf08Hq--7-I_5sWnnig0lgQCEw/s1600/IMG_3419.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-OKyGd0GA4TA/WPek2DIwbbI/AAAAAAAAV5I/7IMWkQGG9jkf08Hq--7-I_5sWnnig0lgQCEw/s400/IMG_3419.jpg" width="285" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">
The day of our return we squeezed in another massage (really good & cheap!) + I had my hair washed again! Lunch was also at a recommended restaurant just beside our hotel:</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">
<b><i>Quan Bui</i></b></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">
<b><i>17a Ngô Văn Năm, Bến Nghé, Quận 1</i></b></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">
By the way our hotel was in a great location in District 1, which is basically the centre! There were tons of restaurants around us, everything was within a 10-minute taxi ride & places like <b><i>Qui Cuisine </i></b>were even within walking distance. You can consider our hotel if you're travelling to Ho Chi Minh!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">
<b><i>Bay Hotel Ho Chih Min</i></b></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">
<b><i>7 Ngô Văn Năm, Bến Nghé, Quận 1</i></b></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">
(same group as Bay Hotel Singapore)</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-LTn9YVl0n2M/WPek16I7ntI/AAAAAAAAV5I/HttofezL7JoK_iNoYAIgfTls0CoSq7tbQCEw/s1600/IMG_3444.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-LTn9YVl0n2M/WPek16I7ntI/AAAAAAAAV5I/HttofezL7JoK_iNoYAIgfTls0CoSq7tbQCEw/s400/IMG_3444.jpg" width="285" /></a>
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-w81YXdc39ys/WPek1x8RARI/AAAAAAAAV5I/RRBFD0ToKeEFttT-bPUnMrk-aLQgk4sGgCEw/s1600/IMG_3445.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-w81YXdc39ys/WPek1x8RARI/AAAAAAAAV5I/RRBFD0ToKeEFttT-bPUnMrk-aLQgk4sGgCEw/s400/IMG_3445.jpg" width="285" /></a>
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-YdJQ8CcpwM4/WPek2ZqaUsI/AAAAAAAAV5I/joTSyeg58EopYGxOlg9Ncj51P7El-b_xQCEw/s1600/IMG_3446.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-YdJQ8CcpwM4/WPek2ZqaUsI/AAAAAAAAV5I/joTSyeg58EopYGxOlg9Ncj51P7El-b_xQCEw/s400/IMG_3446.jpg" width="285" /></a>
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-P1fZ3JCQXF4/WPek2aitX2I/AAAAAAAAV5I/CYMpjfdQtD8EIvOgqTyu4KJwSIdIEscJwCEw/s1600/IMG_3447.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-P1fZ3JCQXF4/WPek2aitX2I/AAAAAAAAV5I/CYMpjfdQtD8EIvOgqTyu4KJwSIdIEscJwCEw/s400/IMG_3447.jpg" width="285" /></a></div>
<br />
Finally it was time to head home... We all departed at different times based on our various work schedules & flights. Luckily I remembered to buy magnets to add to my fridge collection :D I began collecting magnets in perhaps my 2nd or 3rd year flying? Some crew do things like collect a snow globe from each city, or take an exact same picture (same pose but different background)...<br />
<br />
And yes I was very pleasantly surprised to bump into a stewardess I had flown with before & she recognised me, so she gave me a little care package. This is something that crew usually do for each other on flights (where one is travelling on holiday of course). And we also have the custom of buying a little token snack/food for the operating crew when we board their flight, but since it was such a short flight (about 2 hours) I thought I needn't bother. Felt a little bad that I had nothing for her or the crew working that day! What we do is maybe buy things like chocolates or snacks like curry puffs, pandan cake, or any local snacks from the destination we just came from. It's just basically a way to thank the crew for serving you today since they're your fellow colleagues.<br />
<br />
Being back on a SIA flight definitely made me miss flying a little... aside from the many destinations, I actually really enjoyed the work itself. I loved how everything rolls out like clockwork & I did enjoy making people happy. And even though to a crew this Ho Chi Minh flight is just a turnaround (meaning they don't get to spend a night there), I still missed the actual stewardessing as I watched them work.<br />
<br />
If you haven't seen it on my <a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/BSxjsADB104/">Instagram</a>, I filmed a short video for this Vietnam trip!<br />
<br />
That's it for my little Vietnam getaway! It was lots of fun to hang out with all the girls & see a little more of a city that I knew very little of! Quite a few friends were surprised at how fun Ho Chi Minh turned out to be. There's lots of great food, shopping & massages & best of all, prices are comparatively low. Taxis & Ubers are also cheap & easy to get!
<br />
<br />
Till the next time Vietnam!<br />
<br />
<3<br />
<br /></div>
</div>
</div>
sophiewillocqhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14949085151032830398noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-19447173.post-72631071038972814912017-03-16T11:58:00.001+08:002017-03-16T11:58:58.476+08:00Atlas of Mirrors<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Testing out a new size of images on my blog.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
They're so massive so I'm not sure how I feel about this...</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Anyhow I managed to catch the very last day of the Singapore Biennale at the Singapore Art Museum! This year the mirror installation has gone pretty viral & it's basically all over Instagram.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
The great part was that since it was the last weekend of the installation - ENTRY WAS TOTALLY FREE! Normal price is $15 I believe. The bad part is that it was pretty damn crowded. Because it was a 1) Sunday & 2) Free. And I'd have to say it was lucky that it was free because in the end the </div>
"Atlas of Mirros" consisted of essentially... 2 mirror exhibits?<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
One is the mirror staircase you see below (plus all over Instagram) & the other is in a room which had a massive queue of people waiting to enter it. So... no-go.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-8hA0e8pIxrU/WMmNg5v5ObI/AAAAAAAAVyk/94wNirb8cDgg3bgfvGA1aUo8xIDoFi1fwCLcB/s1600/IMG_4583.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-8hA0e8pIxrU/WMmNg5v5ObI/AAAAAAAAVyk/94wNirb8cDgg3bgfvGA1aUo8xIDoFi1fwCLcB/s1600/IMG_4583.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-7sKCQnmuozk/WMmNh1TmtOI/AAAAAAAAVys/uoxJv5zqY6M_zko1oWf8upWmB9VoOdm3gCLcB/s1600/IMG_4584.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-7sKCQnmuozk/WMmNh1TmtOI/AAAAAAAAVys/uoxJv5zqY6M_zko1oWf8upWmB9VoOdm3gCLcB/s1600/IMG_4584.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Nsru69tATqg/WMmNiLQSVYI/AAAAAAAAVyw/iMNJs0eI9lk5AINF-UMeoFu3Xd00T9NNwCLcB/s1600/IMG_4598.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Nsru69tATqg/WMmNiLQSVYI/AAAAAAAAVyw/iMNJs0eI9lk5AINF-UMeoFu3Xd00T9NNwCLcB/s1600/IMG_4598.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-z-KtqIrAvNk/WMmNi_aRHxI/AAAAAAAAVy4/DK9xvKtFSCMYuwqfGhmBHfZoY6pDZ3u1gCLcB/s1600/IMG_4603.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-z-KtqIrAvNk/WMmNi_aRHxI/AAAAAAAAVy4/DK9xvKtFSCMYuwqfGhmBHfZoY6pDZ3u1gCLcB/s1600/IMG_4603.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-fPu7aKhqwxo/WMmNi7TbAiI/AAAAAAAAVy0/GWF3NQSJDgIDWD9a65U596dFE9uryApzQCLcB/s1600/IMG_4616.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-fPu7aKhqwxo/WMmNi7TbAiI/AAAAAAAAVy0/GWF3NQSJDgIDWD9a65U596dFE9uryApzQCLcB/s1600/IMG_4616.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-pVWfiTFoywA/WMmNjAWtO5I/AAAAAAAAVy8/IsjunAJKaCIFIXUHthR1z39z52iXYQu_gCLcB/s1600/IMG_4639.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-pVWfiTFoywA/WMmNjAWtO5I/AAAAAAAAVy8/IsjunAJKaCIFIXUHthR1z39z52iXYQu_gCLcB/s1600/IMG_4639.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
I went with 2 of my colleagues from work - Yanti & Julian.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
I haven't talked much anywhere about my new job & my new office, but I've been enjoying it so far! My office culture is great, my colleagues are fun & the work itself... still engaging.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
It's been almost 5 months in this new path & so far so good :)</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Will talk about my work proper again some other time!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Somehow I feel like this picture is such an accurate depiction of our friendship:</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-YINlzZQsPeE/WMmNnCEHDyI/AAAAAAAAVzg/T_FDi1GvfBgU84W_9PxXGWsD_h6FYxiHQCLcB/s1600/IMG_4682.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-YINlzZQsPeE/WMmNnCEHDyI/AAAAAAAAVzg/T_FDi1GvfBgU84W_9PxXGWsD_h6FYxiHQCLcB/s1600/IMG_4682.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-j5r4r5rPZp4/WMmNkgqjFjI/AAAAAAAAVzA/BKORPelWW0U3U7tpKR9AxcU4OE6Ioqr3ACLcB/s1600/IMG_4644.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-j5r4r5rPZp4/WMmNkgqjFjI/AAAAAAAAVzA/BKORPelWW0U3U7tpKR9AxcU4OE6Ioqr3ACLcB/s1600/IMG_4644.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ql_caqEqZp4/WMmNkm4lTeI/AAAAAAAAVzE/aiNMI_SaVGI5WA1aEJCWZAYS-9Vp431yACLcB/s1600/IMG_4646.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ql_caqEqZp4/WMmNkm4lTeI/AAAAAAAAVzE/aiNMI_SaVGI5WA1aEJCWZAYS-9Vp431yACLcB/s1600/IMG_4646.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-2bUg7rSdRFQ/WMmNk_6VvtI/AAAAAAAAVzI/Nd4FuTHskvc-wlx81X7O1zYe8ElqnkuuwCLcB/s1600/IMG_4651.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-2bUg7rSdRFQ/WMmNk_6VvtI/AAAAAAAAVzI/Nd4FuTHskvc-wlx81X7O1zYe8ElqnkuuwCLcB/s1600/IMG_4651.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-9SFGaWKQE18/WMmNledlObI/AAAAAAAAVzM/7q8vPQI3Mk8dgqYLlXen-RJYJA8G0wFxACLcB/s1600/IMG_4654.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-9SFGaWKQE18/WMmNledlObI/AAAAAAAAVzM/7q8vPQI3Mk8dgqYLlXen-RJYJA8G0wFxACLcB/s1600/IMG_4654.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-SkDWpLySrb0/WMmNl_wT8cI/AAAAAAAAVzQ/HNyLGMK5PBcupdJe0CS_0z4Dk3n0ICcZgCLcB/s1600/IMG_4658.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-SkDWpLySrb0/WMmNl_wT8cI/AAAAAAAAVzQ/HNyLGMK5PBcupdJe0CS_0z4Dk3n0ICcZgCLcB/s1600/IMG_4658.jpg" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Because Yanti told him he'd look prettier from the back LOL #nasty</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-xdde9WaoXi0/WMmNmJu66dI/AAAAAAAAVzU/Xk9MZFXkMzAf5qvZ7KtWhA2XKmCkUDyAACLcB/s1600/IMG_4665.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-xdde9WaoXi0/WMmNmJu66dI/AAAAAAAAVzU/Xk9MZFXkMzAf5qvZ7KtWhA2XKmCkUDyAACLcB/s1600/IMG_4665.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-sxeUBcY9fBE/WMmNmUoPiWI/AAAAAAAAVzY/_thg6cX-UGQbvWiHwhxZwoN-t0hsaLGcgCLcB/s1600/IMG_4673.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-sxeUBcY9fBE/WMmNmUoPiWI/AAAAAAAAVzY/_thg6cX-UGQbvWiHwhxZwoN-t0hsaLGcgCLcB/s1600/IMG_4673.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-38WYMXy1nSE/WMmNm1uaWeI/AAAAAAAAVzc/VfAmIDWfl4k010YV2AL8F3KjlbcTiShFACLcB/s1600/IMG_4679.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-38WYMXy1nSE/WMmNm1uaWeI/AAAAAAAAVzc/VfAmIDWfl4k010YV2AL8F3KjlbcTiShFACLcB/s1600/IMG_4679.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-GV9yDgkWB4M/WMmNg4PZadI/AAAAAAAAVyg/uHaZdVBkUoQ-orj4AGqzwGZ-Y_-qsMd8QCLcB/s1600/IMG_2471.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-GV9yDgkWB4M/WMmNg4PZadI/AAAAAAAAVyg/uHaZdVBkUoQ-orj4AGqzwGZ-Y_-qsMd8QCLcB/s1600/IMG_2471.JPG" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
So part of the reason why I asked Yanti out that day to the Singapore Art Museum was to engineer a surprise birthday gathering! The original plan was that she'd have dinner with her husband & we'd appear magically, but unfortunately her husband got stuck overseas so we needed a reason to get her out of the house without telling her that we'd all be there.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
And I instructed the rest where to appear but as we walked around I kept spotting them! *eyeroll*</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Thanks to my sharp eyes I managed to divert Yanti away each time. I generally jsut gave the excuse that I wanted more pictures at the mirror wall... Blogger life camwhore expectations.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
SUCCESS:</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-eAjDPzyA4ww/WMmNh948SxI/AAAAAAAAVyo/uQ_NWy8MZboPhMad614SuZsyp7q-c48WQCLcB/s1600/IMG_2415.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-eAjDPzyA4ww/WMmNh948SxI/AAAAAAAAVyo/uQ_NWy8MZboPhMad614SuZsyp7q-c48WQCLcB/s1600/IMG_2415.JPG" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
And the pictures that made it to Instagram...</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<blockquote class="instagram-media" data-instgrm-captioned="" data-instgrm-version="7" style="background: #fff; border-radius: 3px; border: 0; box-shadow: 0 0 1px 0 rgba(0 , 0 , 0 , 0.5) , 0 1px 10px 0 rgba(0 , 0 , 0 , 0.15); margin: 1px; max-width: 658px; padding: 0; width: 99.375%;">
<div style="padding: 8px;">
<div style="background: #F8F8F8; line-height: 0; margin-top: 40px; padding: 62.40740740740741% 0; text-align: center; width: 100%;">
<div style="background: url(data:image/png; display: block; height: 44px; margin: 0 auto -44px; position: relative; top: -22px; width: 44px;">
</div>
</div>
<div style="margin: 8px 0 0 0; padding: 0 4px;">
<a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/BRAzrwbhqyN/" style="color: black; font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: 17px; text-decoration: none; word-wrap: break-word;" target="_blank">Caught the last day of the #singaporebiennale & this iconic staircase of mirrors #singaporebiennale2017</a></div>
<div style="color: #c9c8cd; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 17px; margin-bottom: 0; margin-top: 8px; overflow: hidden; padding: 8px 0 7px; text-align: center; text-overflow: ellipsis; white-space: nowrap;">
A post shared by Sophie Willocq 🐱 (@sophiewillocq) on <time datetime="2017-02-27T11:01:34+00:00" style="font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 17px;">Feb 27, 2017 at 3:01am PST</time></div>
</div>
</blockquote>
<script async="" defer="" src="//platform.instagram.com/en_US/embeds.js"></script>
<br />
<blockquote class="instagram-media" data-instgrm-captioned="" data-instgrm-version="7" style="background: #fff; border-radius: 3px; border: 0; box-shadow: 0 0 1px 0 rgba(0 , 0 , 0 , 0.5) , 0 1px 10px 0 rgba(0 , 0 , 0 , 0.15); margin: 1px; max-width: 658px; padding: 0; width: 99.375%;">
<div style="padding: 8px;">
<div style="background: #F8F8F8; line-height: 0; margin-top: 40px; padding: 62.4537037037037% 0; text-align: center; width: 100%;">
<div style="background: url(data:image/png; display: block; height: 44px; margin: 0 auto -44px; position: relative; top: -22px; width: 44px;">
</div>
</div>
<div style="margin: 8px 0 0 0; padding: 0 4px;">
<a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/BRItLNnBx2Y/" style="color: black; font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: 17px; text-decoration: none; word-wrap: break-word;" target="_blank">🍃🍂🍃🍂🍃</a></div>
<div style="color: #c9c8cd; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 17px; margin-bottom: 0; margin-top: 8px; overflow: hidden; padding: 8px 0 7px; text-align: center; text-overflow: ellipsis; white-space: nowrap;">
A post shared by Sophie Willocq 🐱 (@sophiewillocq) on <time datetime="2017-03-02T12:38:37+00:00" style="font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 17px;">Mar 2, 2017 at 4:38am PST</time></div>
</div>
</blockquote>
<script async="" defer="" src="//platform.instagram.com/en_US/embeds.js"></script>
<br />
<blockquote class="instagram-media" data-instgrm-captioned="" data-instgrm-version="7" style="background: #fff; border-radius: 3px; border: 0; box-shadow: 0 0 1px 0 rgba(0 , 0 , 0 , 0.5) , 0 1px 10px 0 rgba(0 , 0 , 0 , 0.15); margin: 1px; max-width: 658px; padding: 0; width: 99.375%;">
<div style="padding: 8px;">
<div style="background: #F8F8F8; line-height: 0; margin-top: 40px; padding: 62.4537037037037% 0; text-align: center; width: 100%;">
<div style="background: url(data:image/png; display: block; height: 44px; margin: 0 auto -44px; position: relative; top: -22px; width: 44px;">
</div>
</div>
<div style="margin: 8px 0 0 0; padding: 0 4px;">
<a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/BRX2Qrohtge/" style="color: black; font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: 17px; text-decoration: none; word-wrap: break-word;" target="_blank">WHEN WILL MY REFLECTION SHOW, WHO I REALLY AM INSIDEEE 😩🤔😣#singaporebiennale2017 #singaporebiennale</a></div>
<div style="color: #c9c8cd; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 17px; margin-bottom: 0; margin-top: 8px; overflow: hidden; padding: 8px 0 7px; text-align: center; text-overflow: ellipsis; white-space: nowrap;">
A post shared by Sophie Willocq 🐱 (@sophiewillocq) on <time datetime="2017-03-08T09:46:37+00:00" style="font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 17px;">Mar 8, 2017 at 1:46am PST</time></div>
</div>
</blockquote>
<script async="" defer="" src="//platform.instagram.com/en_US/embeds.js"></script>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
So that's it for a little weekend update from me!</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
</div>
sophiewillocqhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14949085151032830398noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-19447173.post-39200084400000661062017-02-14T03:46:00.000+08:002017-02-14T03:46:55.756+08:0014 FEB // V DAY<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Posting a little lookbook collection this Valentine's Day.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Nothing in particular to do with Valentine's, unless you count that my pictures below were all taken by girls... #Galentine's Day. One of the 3 spots below is near my new office; make a guess which!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Speaking of which, all the pieces below were kindly sponsored by <a href="https://le-contour.com/">Le Contour</a>, an online boutique based in Australia that provides <b>free worldwide shipping</b>. They have lots of designs suited for work, but that can also be casual when worn differently! For myself, I paired all 3 pieces with sneakers.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-dWtOYDQpc_U/WKIBNCA8jnI/AAAAAAAAVw4/9wWcVR5M12EZZ6ZaoSjX-OS94LmWJExuACLcB/s1600/IMG_4478.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-dWtOYDQpc_U/WKIBNCA8jnI/AAAAAAAAVw4/9wWcVR5M12EZZ6ZaoSjX-OS94LmWJExuACLcB/s1600/IMG_4478.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-OMXBcLImxs4/WKIBNEUOLkI/AAAAAAAAVw8/hPI-NchFRGkyc7VIl0MZz53ZkFI15YLCQCLcB/s1600/IMG_4474.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-OMXBcLImxs4/WKIBNEUOLkI/AAAAAAAAVw8/hPI-NchFRGkyc7VIl0MZz53ZkFI15YLCQCLcB/s1600/IMG_4474.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-W8U6I1WCaZo/WKIBM5LvtCI/AAAAAAAAVw0/Un5ju-nvleYxaSUNVKaJbmFPfBv6o4xJgCLcB/s1600/IMG_4470.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-W8U6I1WCaZo/WKIBM5LvtCI/AAAAAAAAVw0/Un5ju-nvleYxaSUNVKaJbmFPfBv6o4xJgCLcB/s1600/IMG_4470.jpg" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
This is the <a href="https://le-contour.com/womens-dresses/ribbed-bodycon-dress-black">Ribbed Bodycon Dress in Black</a> & I love classic designs like these.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Wear it with heels, accessorise a little & you're good to go for the night!</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-tH_l6Ri6BT4/WKIBN6k6jjI/AAAAAAAAVxI/E6uDAIYCZGYXW9X9oEK3JfPZROoJhfs2QCLcB/s1600/IMG_4486.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-tH_l6Ri6BT4/WKIBN6k6jjI/AAAAAAAAVxI/E6uDAIYCZGYXW9X9oEK3JfPZROoJhfs2QCLcB/s1600/IMG_4486.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-MxI87H2DXog/WKIBNsXOzII/AAAAAAAAVxA/MV4ZtnP2orAkXtg2e-LLvSPTUO02mXp2wCLcB/s1600/IMG_4481.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-MxI87H2DXog/WKIBNsXOzII/AAAAAAAAVxA/MV4ZtnP2orAkXtg2e-LLvSPTUO02mXp2wCLcB/s1600/IMG_4481.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-s3E7wc4Vi9Q/WKIBNyd7TSI/AAAAAAAAVxE/T6nxS54vTg4Ivpwq0uw2QxQZCH-iGZyoACLcB/s1600/IMG_4487.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-s3E7wc4Vi9Q/WKIBNyd7TSI/AAAAAAAAVxE/T6nxS54vTg4Ivpwq0uw2QxQZCH-iGZyoACLcB/s1600/IMG_4487.jpg" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
This <a href="https://le-contour.com/womens-dresses/stretch-knit-sleeveless-bodycon-dress-dark-green">Stretch Knit Bodycon Dress in Dark Green</a> is so, so comfortable.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Definitely suitable for work without looking too corporate!</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-iQBGuzqAgS0/WKIBL2DASpI/AAAAAAAAVwo/z9gktMuQb14p3C2JNiiaUOxxaYzO3vcCgCLcB/s1600/IMG_4451.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-iQBGuzqAgS0/WKIBL2DASpI/AAAAAAAAVwo/z9gktMuQb14p3C2JNiiaUOxxaYzO3vcCgCLcB/s1600/IMG_4451.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-3pFgLKU-WSM/WKIBL9Ja2aI/AAAAAAAAVws/vJL4CtM4P98zTh2uIi7u9tc62f0QRwAdACLcB/s1600/IMG_4453.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-3pFgLKU-WSM/WKIBL9Ja2aI/AAAAAAAAVws/vJL4CtM4P98zTh2uIi7u9tc62f0QRwAdACLcB/s1600/IMG_4453.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-LQ1-ReqvkKQ/WKIBMPfphkI/AAAAAAAAVww/A-vFtprIVeY9cdSoV4bOd_21ed9k_356gCLcB/s1600/IMG_4454.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-LQ1-ReqvkKQ/WKIBMPfphkI/AAAAAAAAVww/A-vFtprIVeY9cdSoV4bOd_21ed9k_356gCLcB/s1600/IMG_4454.jpg" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
And last but not least, the <a href="https://le-contour.com/womens-dresses/sleeveless-flare-dress-royal-blue">Sleeveless Flare Dress in Royal Blue</a>! Went for something a little girlier for my last pick & I like that it's more feminine with the subtle flare & waist panels. This is perfect for Sunday Brunch, which is exactly what I wore it out for!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
I was honestly pleasantly surprised by the fit & quality of the dresses from <a href="https://le-contour.com/">Le Contour</a>.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Pieces from online stores sometimes can be ill-fitting on me as I'm not your usual petite Asian girl - I'm about 15cm taller & 10kg heavier! And many such stores simply cater a "one size fits all". But browsing their site I realised they even have categories like "Curves Creation" & "Top Balancing".</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Shopping online often means you don't quite get the fit right, or it just somehow hangs awkwardly off you due to bad cutting & design. The <a href="https://le-contour.com/">Le Contour</a> pieces were genuinely well-made, of good material & with cutting suited for actual bodies. A definite thumbs up & I look forward to more designs from them!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Shop below:</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<b><span style="font-size: large;"><a href="https://le-contour.com/">Le Contour</a></span></b></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
</div>
sophiewillocqhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14949085151032830398noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-19447173.post-88013322881209391562017-01-22T06:56:00.000+08:002017-01-22T06:56:06.360+08:00lost<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<div style="text-align: center;">
Don't think, I tell myself.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Just do what makes you happy.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
It's frightening to think that maybe all life has in store for you is a big fat screw up.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
That you're just going to be one of those people, who'll constantly struggle, who'll wait and wait, who'll keep trying, who'll keep believing... but who will never quite break the surface. That in this lifetime, certain things will just not be meant for you to have. And you're just meant to watch by the sidelines.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://68.media.tumblr.com/71c6b7714bac51259f8d6d96c01d40ea/tumblr_ocj7skdKmA1qbb77eo1_1280.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://68.media.tumblr.com/71c6b7714bac51259f8d6d96c01d40ea/tumblr_ocj7skdKmA1qbb77eo1_1280.jpg" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
You think that when certain things happen, there must be a reason. Some grander meaning to all this. Unforeseen forces guiding your way. Call it faith, fate, whatever you like. But what if there isn't?</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
What if things just happen because life can be shit.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
And here you are, holding out for some higher meaning, some sign, some reason.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
You let yourself be guided by how you feel, you tell yourself there must be more to it than this. There has to be some meaning behind these things happening. What if the answer is simply that you messed up? You followed your heart instead of your mind. And you were foolish to do so.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
</div>
sophiewillocqhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14949085151032830398noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-19447173.post-70899567353768019092016-09-05T11:39:00.000+08:002016-09-05T12:10:32.524+08:00Midnight Musings<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<div style="text-align: center;">
Sometimes I feel like... I wish I could redo things all over?</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Start all over from when things were really simple, where all you did was follow instructions & your biggest decision was when to do your homework. Where you didn't have to make decisions that could affect the rest of your life. It's ironic but kids, your parents are right. Study hard, do well. I'll always regret not studying harder. I didn't do terribly, but the idea of not having done better, done more, done my best, will haunt me eternally. I can't say I would be happier if I had pursued a different academic route or career; life compromises of a lot more than that. But it would be one less thing to think about.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
I perpetually find myself at a crossroad. Do I settle & make the best out of what I have right now? Or do I give it my all, say heck it & pursue something new, even if it means wasting another 4 years doing another degree and/or moving overseas? I did genuinely enjoy studying Sociology (my major), but interest & reality don't always coincide. And majoring in Sociology was never my goal. It was a lucky outcome because it turns out I enjoy it, but because it wasn't ever my plan, I have a never-ending list of What Ifs.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Sometimes I think about furthering my studies. I enjoy school, I always did. But again, interests & practicality often don't align. And I ask myself, maybe it's just time to suck it up & move on into the real world. Get a normal job, climb the corporate ladder... stop wasting time.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
I try to console myself by stalking my peers. Of course some turned out to be overachievers. I feel jealous, with those feelings of That Should Be Me. At some juncture in their lives, they had a turning point & suddenly flourished. On the other hand, I look at some with prestigious backgrounds, promising prospects... & then just an average outcome. Maybe it's better to be one of those people who hit their peak later. You spend your early life feeling average, believing you're average & at some point, you develop your passion or skills & excel at them. The other group, is consistently above average at most stages in their lives & is above average at most things, but never excels at any of them. Yet there is a greater level of expectation placed on them due to the fact that they were comparatively above average from the start, which would lead to a greater sense of letdown.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
I sometimes think I've already hit my peak. Or rather, my chance to have peaked. That that time was probably in my late teens to early twenties, when I was young & still studying. I had the luxury of time. I could have explored a million different things, maybe found something to concentrate on & excel at. Instead I dabbled in everything & excelled at nothing. I did some modelling, but never explored it seriously. I did decently well in school, but not enough to make something serious out of it. I could have done more with my blog, but it just ended up as a hobby & mild sideline.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
I struggle with this inclination to want to do everything & anything. I end up doing a bit of everything & never fully concentrating on one thing. It's always safer to do a bit of all, to not put your eggs all in one basket. I could have taken a loan, gone overseas & studied something I really wanted, rather than sticking with what was safe - a degree at a local university. It's easy to say "follow your dreams". But reality hits you with constraints like time, finances, family, opportunities forgone... Did you know an overseas degree can easily cost half a million dollars (schooling + living cost)? It's an insane debt to start your adult life with. But is it worth it if it means you got to live your dream? Maybe. Is it too late now?</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
People always say it's never too late. But come on. It comes to a point where uprooting your current life to pursue your dreams just gets increasingly difficult. So I try to learn to settle. My peers seem happy, they tell me they're happy. We could all have achieved more, but we didn't. So I'm waiting for new priorities in my life to come; waiting for them to overshadow all my What Ifs & relegate them to It Doesn't Matter Anyway. Because right now with nothing in particular to be looking forward to in my future, my past is still casting its shadow of regret.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
</div>
sophiewillocqhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14949085151032830398noreply@blogger.com10tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-19447173.post-62446376070159302672016-08-31T06:55:00.003+08:002016-09-02T18:14:03.156+08:00IT Cosmetics - for beautiful skin<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Earlier this month, Sephora Singapore sent me a box of <b>IT Cosmetics</b> products!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
IT stands for Innovative Technology & I have to say that before this I did not know about this brand. I did a little research & the more I did, the more interested I was in their brand philosophy.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
A little background information:</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<b>IT Cosmetics</b> was developed in 2008 by CEO Jamie Lima, who was a TV news anchor suffering from rosacea & pigmentation. If you do not know about rosacea you can do a quick Google search, I know of people who suffer from it & it can range from mild to very severe, so it's a very real skin problem that affects many girls. In severe cases it can even spread to the eyes (ocular rosacea)!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<b>IT Cosmetics</b> is:</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
# Paraben-free (less worry about chemicals)</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
# Cruelty-free (no testing on animals)</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
# Developed by dermatologists & plastic surgeons</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
What this means is that <b>IT Cosmetics</b> is designed for sensitive skin, with a dermalogical background & avoiding chemical-laden products that can further harm your skin. And it's cruelty-free!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-IS7IDVKY9KY/V8XxbdctRAI/AAAAAAAAVos/F9CjEA2GYa49iTF0tnEbyd2L67TDUm20gCEw/s1600/IMG_2776.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-IS7IDVKY9KY/V8XxbdctRAI/AAAAAAAAVos/F9CjEA2GYa49iTF0tnEbyd2L67TDUm20gCEw/s1600/IMG_2776.jpg" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<b><u>MY SKIN</u></b></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
I don't really get acne but I have very dry skin.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
If I let it get too dry, it stings when I sweat or even just smile. Most brands (ranging from drugstore to high-end) tend to sting my skin because of all the chemicals in them - to whiten, reverse aging, revitalise & what not. I couldn't use most brands & eventually turned to very mild, dermalogical brands such as Bioderma & Cetaphil. And yes this is in Singapore. When I go overseas... wow.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
I sometimes develop a bit of redness on my face, usually at the cheek area or sometimes at the corner of my eyes & I try to avoid makeup for a few days till it clears. Basically from what I can tell, my skin generally behaves well but is a bit sensitive & this is why I keep my skincare regime very, very simple - makeup remover, moisturiser & sunblock.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-0vDMK7rDSoY/V8XxbXANKII/AAAAAAAAVow/VK1fQYtl5M06yJRu7lznRVtDFCAG-0u9ACEw/s1600/IMG_2779.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-0vDMK7rDSoY/V8XxbXANKII/AAAAAAAAVow/VK1fQYtl5M06yJRu7lznRVtDFCAG-0u9ACEw/s1600/IMG_2779.jpg" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Sephora sent me a whole range of products to create a full-face of makeup!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
I'll be testing out ALL of them.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
You can scroll to the end for a summarised review!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
These products are sponsored, but I do not want to say that I love everything or you should buy everything, everything is amazing... etc, etc. I honestly don't even think it's possible for a makeup brand to be good in every single makeup product right? LOL.</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-lX8imLoFnJI/V8XxcHEZKsI/AAAAAAAAVo0/ZEHckTjC37ERyvidM2wCF4N9z_d6FcsuACEw/s1600/IMG_2792.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-lX8imLoFnJI/V8XxcHEZKsI/AAAAAAAAVo0/ZEHckTjC37ERyvidM2wCF4N9z_d6FcsuACEw/s1600/IMG_2792.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
For starters though, the packaging is really simple & minimalistic!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
It's quite pleasing to the eye & I like the cute message in every single box:</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-dslUBFIL53E/V8XxcCCHepI/AAAAAAAAVo4/JQTv9m8mR8A8H86pSVzn3zn1izlJ9lxiwCEw/s1600/IMG_2795.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-dslUBFIL53E/V8XxcCCHepI/AAAAAAAAVo4/JQTv9m8mR8A8H86pSVzn3zn1izlJ9lxiwCEw/s1600/IMG_2795.jpg" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
"You Are Beautiful. You Are It!"</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Featured above is their <b>Confidence In A Cream</b>, a night + day moisturiser with anti-aging properties! As I've mentioned, moisturiser is a BIG DEAL to me & I'm constantly on the lookout for good moisturisers!</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-dQchttQjSb0/V8XxdHK6ILI/AAAAAAAAVo8/q40UwmSEMds7IOyiGKDIzTJ6pBlMN47LwCEw/s1600/IMG_2796.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-dQchttQjSb0/V8XxdHK6ILI/AAAAAAAAVo8/q40UwmSEMds7IOyiGKDIzTJ6pBlMN47LwCEw/s1600/IMG_2796.jpg" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
This moisturiser is extremely rich & creamy! </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
It smells a little like lemongrass, which is pretty relaxing.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<b><u>Review:</u></b></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<b><u><br /></u></b></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
I find this moisturiser only suitable for <b>night use</b>. This is especially because of Singapore's climate as it's not as dry as other countries. I used this moisturiser over a week & I noticed that even after 2 hours it hadn't fully been absorbed into my skin yet, which makes this unsuitable to wear below makeup during the day (unless you don't wear any & just need to repair your skin).</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
My recommendation would be to use this maybe only 2-3 times a week or to make sure you alternate this with another, lighter moisturiser. This is something I personally do as well, because if you keep buttering your skin with thick moisturisers I think you'll break out!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
So all in all, definitely a moisturiser I would add into my rotation of moisturisers, but not on a daily basis & not for daytime use below makeup. Really quite like the smell though!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-5tho6f2SeqM/V8XxdHUy-YI/AAAAAAAAVpE/imgfaVNeNxYwLwslv7xiT8-Iqt3YNyqmgCEw/s1600/IMG_2805.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-5tho6f2SeqM/V8XxdHUy-YI/AAAAAAAAVpE/imgfaVNeNxYwLwslv7xiT8-Iqt3YNyqmgCEw/s1600/IMG_2805.jpg" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Moving on to the face products!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Here we have the:</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<b>Bye Bye Under Eye Concealer</b></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<b>Your Skin But Better CC Cream</b></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<b>Bye Bye Pores Loose Powder</b></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-aY0U5NHygyI/V8Xxd5pZO-I/AAAAAAAAVpM/aSPq8YH_uso_wHaMtXevClFoJNHdvprKACEw/s1600/IMG_2811.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-aY0U5NHygyI/V8Xxd5pZO-I/AAAAAAAAVpM/aSPq8YH_uso_wHaMtXevClFoJNHdvprKACEw/s1600/IMG_2811.jpg" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
On the left is the concealer (a more pinkish tone) & on the right is the CC cream. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
As you can see, both are thick & creamy.</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-pyE36zNg38A/V8XxetZktwI/AAAAAAAAVpc/WXPo0YF0Q3MDvQkJF30RCd5EkgdKKn1SACEw/s1600/IMG_3057.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-pyE36zNg38A/V8XxetZktwI/AAAAAAAAVpc/WXPo0YF0Q3MDvQkJF30RCd5EkgdKKn1SACEw/s1600/IMG_3057.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-3kHKBre8lSs/V8XxfiMCmgI/AAAAAAAAVpo/8qRvDY1qKqg8DZGooEIS5x3gLZhBTLmeQCEw/s1600/IMG_3067.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-3kHKBre8lSs/V8XxfiMCmgI/AAAAAAAAVpo/8qRvDY1qKqg8DZGooEIS5x3gLZhBTLmeQCEw/s1600/IMG_3067.jpg" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
After both the concealer + CC cream on the RIGHT side of my face.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
As you can see, my general tone is greatly evened out & small pigmentation marks covered.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<b><u>Review:</u></b></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<b><u><br /></u></b></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
They both provide GREAT coverage & this would be the biggest plus point. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
I would say however that it's a little on the thick side. It didn't feel suffocating (kept it on for a few hours to test), but if you didn't need coverage to begin with then stick to just the concealer, which did a great job with my dark eye circles!</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-i1nvRcEFAA8/V8XxeiGlslI/AAAAAAAAVpU/OlL-WlFEdJ00p-m9a1bxFSNtW_e6t39tACEw/s1600/IMG_2824.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-i1nvRcEFAA8/V8XxeiGlslI/AAAAAAAAVpU/OlL-WlFEdJ00p-m9a1bxFSNtW_e6t39tACEw/s1600/IMG_2824.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-VqJFRpG9rqI/V8XxfXmKw8I/AAAAAAAAVpk/9nM3AiE1VUcYBkSHLC1AIZz0b5XcujJwgCEw/s1600/IMG_3077.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-VqJFRpG9rqI/V8XxfXmKw8I/AAAAAAAAVpk/9nM3AiE1VUcYBkSHLC1AIZz0b5XcujJwgCEw/s1600/IMG_3077.jpg" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
The <b>Naturally Pretty Essentials Eyeshadows</b> & hahaha I love the palette name!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
This features a range of very basic matte eyeshadows & one slightly shimmering highlighter.</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-pcMdVsXOO8I/V8XxdGxI21I/AAAAAAAAVpA/dsUEuT-yDagQqzWFS4h1ALlhpAaD82VSgCEw/s1600/IMG_2799.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-pcMdVsXOO8I/V8XxdGxI21I/AAAAAAAAVpA/dsUEuT-yDagQqzWFS4h1ALlhpAaD82VSgCEw/s1600/IMG_2799.jpg" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
L-R: <b>Tightline </b>(3-in-1 primer, eyeliner, mascara), <b>Superhero Mascara </b>& <b>Brow Power</b></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-tQF7D09xXOo/V8XxfSXtnuI/AAAAAAAAVpg/d3ekr_RXPFs_0x4M5DSlDoCoI91c7VX1wCEw/s1600/IMG_3071.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-tQF7D09xXOo/V8XxfSXtnuI/AAAAAAAAVpg/d3ekr_RXPFs_0x4M5DSlDoCoI91c7VX1wCEw/s1600/IMG_3071.jpg" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
I decided to blend 3 eyeshadows together, namely going from light to dark. I find that putting dark on the outer corner helps to elongate my eyes & create that cat-eye effect. I also used the dark blue eyeshadow to line my lower waterline, rather than an eyeliner.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<b>Superhero Mascara:</b></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
As I have eyelash extensions the effect of the mascara is less obvious on my upper lashes, but look at the bottom! There is a rather noticeable difference in volume & length compared to my other eye!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Oh yes I didn't use the <b>Brow Power </b>eyebrow pencil at all LOL.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
I apologise but my eyebrows are too thick & are covered by my bangs anyway.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
As for the <b>Tightline</b> 3-in-1... I don't quite get it. I'm someone that has never really cared about primers (which helps your makeup stay on better) & as an eyeliner I prefer a conventional design.</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-q59f2IrHUcc/V8XxgL6P15I/AAAAAAAAVps/iUiqHlrsDro-1gWhWyVTe5nbnUgB2oJKwCEw/s1600/IMG_3102.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-q59f2IrHUcc/V8XxgL6P15I/AAAAAAAAVps/iUiqHlrsDro-1gWhWyVTe5nbnUgB2oJKwCEw/s1600/IMG_3102.jpg" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<b>Bye Bye Pores Loose Powder</b></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<b><br /></b></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
I used the cushion that came with this rather than the powder brush!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<b><u>Review:</u></b></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
It applied fairly well though it needed a bit of blending as the resulting matte-fiying effect is quite obvious (I mean look at how white & smooth my right cheek looks) so you need to ensure this is applied properly all over! Again I feel the focus of this product is more on coverage.</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Qc_060x__V8/V8XxdzQNpcI/AAAAAAAAVpI/r1XGpUw66RQII5bucbgvxzxJnKCv64EmQCEw/s1600/IMG_2815.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Qc_060x__V8/V8XxdzQNpcI/AAAAAAAAVpI/r1XGpUw66RQII5bucbgvxzxJnKCv64EmQCEw/s1600/IMG_2815.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ZXqvAze4K0I/V8Xxd4yYczI/AAAAAAAAVpQ/ya9s3cTYTS8YzljFe9sUILMkhAhGGGVNgCEw/s1600/IMG_2816.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ZXqvAze4K0I/V8Xxd4yYczI/AAAAAAAAVpQ/ya9s3cTYTS8YzljFe9sUILMkhAhGGGVNgCEw/s1600/IMG_2816.jpg" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Next up would be the <b>Your Most Beautiful You Bronzer, Luminizer & Blush</b>.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
The blush is a really pretty coral shade that applies easily with only one or two swipes!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Actually all 3 were fairly pigmented & applied easily on the back of my hand. I was also pleasantly surprised that the highlighter (luminizer) showed up clearly, even on camera!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
(the strange bump is my vein...)</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
So for you girls that like to <i>shine bright like a diamond</i>, check it out LOL.</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Q059WQOURPs/V8YCajuLhXI/AAAAAAAAVqk/cZoKANfbyNI6wAGfh4ot6LEIrvePg1q7gCLcB/s1600/IG%25281%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Q059WQOURPs/V8YCajuLhXI/AAAAAAAAVqk/cZoKANfbyNI6wAGfh4ot6LEIrvePg1q7gCLcB/s1600/IG%25281%2529.jpg" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Here is the final half-face makeup look!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
I went for a pretty made-up look so you can go for something more subdued if you prefer!</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-hKlEpQk0NBU/V8Xxei2D9cI/AAAAAAAAVpY/LPDczguccNAI1ZzW3VS83-Htj_UHN_OBgCEw/s1600/IMG_2830.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-hKlEpQk0NBU/V8Xxei2D9cI/AAAAAAAAVpY/LPDczguccNAI1ZzW3VS83-Htj_UHN_OBgCEw/s1600/IMG_2830.jpg" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
The brushes! I honestly don't have much experience with brushes so I can't give an accurate review of these. The bristles felt soft & gentle & I thought the packaging was great!</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-qnGZPitFhmw/V8XxhoEmH9I/AAAAAAAAVqE/G422hdSq5kESgoVThHn598-yyGVI-_e6QCEw/s1600/IMG_3218.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-qnGZPitFhmw/V8XxhoEmH9I/AAAAAAAAVqE/G422hdSq5kESgoVThHn598-yyGVI-_e6QCEw/s1600/IMG_3218.jpg" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Yep. Naturally Pretty that's me LOL.</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-DijXnkKOX8I/V8XxhvAAzaI/AAAAAAAAVqI/-cHKtpXK9uEhDP3hbAtrd9viFiSIeJwugCEw/s1600/IMG_3222.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-DijXnkKOX8I/V8XxhvAAzaI/AAAAAAAAVqI/-cHKtpXK9uEhDP3hbAtrd9viFiSIeJwugCEw/s1600/IMG_3222.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-mjws_8TvmXY/V8Xxh3H4XCI/AAAAAAAAVqM/rxOXKWFVEfQuGGxpwjx8kP5PKAFu3opUgCEw/s1600/IMG_3224.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-mjws_8TvmXY/V8Xxh3H4XCI/AAAAAAAAVqM/rxOXKWFVEfQuGGxpwjx8kP5PKAFu3opUgCEw/s1600/IMG_3224.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-PdoJBVdMmDM/V8Xxic5-RLI/AAAAAAAAVqQ/rBWTltsXatAM56yAFE28FlAKcqSo5rAZACEw/s1600/IMG_3227.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-PdoJBVdMmDM/V8Xxic5-RLI/AAAAAAAAVqQ/rBWTltsXatAM56yAFE28FlAKcqSo5rAZACEw/s1600/IMG_3227.jpg" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Oh yes & not forgetting the <b>Blurred Lines Lipstick</b>! This is an anti-aging, collagen-based lipstick! It's no wonder the application felt really smooth. This lipstick is more on the watery, glossy side but the pigmentation was surprisingly good (considering how it felt more on the "wet" side).</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
As you can see above, it came out a really bright, rich hot pink!</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-l6rf2skpmbw/V8XxgJGbVkI/AAAAAAAAVpw/hhDWlNYt6E0BNrnqh0ba0252Q5mGbrRmACEw/s1600/IMG_3155.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-l6rf2skpmbw/V8XxgJGbVkI/AAAAAAAAVpw/hhDWlNYt6E0BNrnqh0ba0252Q5mGbrRmACEw/s1600/IMG_3155.jpg" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Final makeup!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Sephora Singapore reposted my picture to their Instagram & a user commented that <b>"someone needs to blend that eyeshadow"</b> LOL. Maybe I really didn't blend it well but anyway I find that it looks ok when I open my eyes; maybe because my eyes are a little more deep-set so the dark eyeshadow is less obvious on me!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Basically do whatever suits you ok! For example if you have single eyelids, putting heavy dark eyeshadows may be quite unsuitable for you. Whereas for me if I don't go thicker with eyeshadow, it's generally not very visible when I open my eyes.</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-sbU5598U1wE/V8XxhOMlyGI/AAAAAAAAVp8/UlwwK1RjfYMJ_UFKcG8yABKdK5azqONyQCEw/s1600/IMG_3203.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-sbU5598U1wE/V8XxhOMlyGI/AAAAAAAAVp8/UlwwK1RjfYMJ_UFKcG8yABKdK5azqONyQCEw/s1600/IMG_3203.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
By the way I have to say this:</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
SKIN IS PICTURES ARE ALL COMPLETELY UNEDITED.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
NO EDITING DONE.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
I mean of course as this is a review on skincare/beauty products, I <b>shouldn't</b> be editing my skin in the first place. It would be pretty deceitful if I edited away dark-eye circles when reviewing a concealer right?</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
But my point is...</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
I FELT NO NEED FOR IT AT ALL!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
When I looked at the pictures I was like, WOW.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Normally I'm quite self-conscious & even if I don't edit my skin (for reasons just mentioned), I'd be thinking like... damn now everyone will see my dark eye circles & blemishes... etc.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
But I'm actually pretty amazed at how my skin looks?</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-CME65o8lYFg/V8XxgQmFMGI/AAAAAAAAVp0/tDib-hLnCwwQzplBD1Ftqvj2h_eqx_dgACEw/s1600/IMG_3183.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-CME65o8lYFg/V8XxgQmFMGI/AAAAAAAAVp0/tDib-hLnCwwQzplBD1Ftqvj2h_eqx_dgACEw/s1600/IMG_3183.jpg" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
I mean sure, a little shadow under the eyes & around the mouth area.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
But overall, still pretty impressed!</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-P1yCZDh0CZA/V8Xxg4YZYuI/AAAAAAAAVp4/vEVJGG8tHqgvGPJDyziA_6pr22Patu5KgCEw/s1600/IMG_3199.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-P1yCZDh0CZA/V8Xxg4YZYuI/AAAAAAAAVp4/vEVJGG8tHqgvGPJDyziA_6pr22Patu5KgCEw/s1600/IMG_3199.jpg" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Here's my overall take:</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Actually when I first tested out the products I felt they were quite normal. It wasn't until I had to do up this post, see my face close-up & zoomed in before resizing the pictures for uploading that I began to feel genuinely impressed. Like I said, I suddenly realised that I hadn't thought about my dark eye circles the entire time I was picking pictures & that was because... there was no need to be self-conscious about them. Because my skin looked edited already O.O</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
I mean you can scroll back up to my close-ups. I can even see small facial hairs. But my skin? Thumbs up. It looks smooth without having that over-edited (like after an over-zealous iPhone makeup app session) look to it. It looks good, but natural, with a few small freckles & shadows.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-_I8jDgGdUEI/V8XxhEAGFLI/AAAAAAAAVqA/TWcvhLNJj54H3l-_LvBxQsxaSsuV7Hu_ACEw/s1600/IMG_3191.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-_I8jDgGdUEI/V8XxhEAGFLI/AAAAAAAAVqA/TWcvhLNJj54H3l-_LvBxQsxaSsuV7Hu_ACEw/s1600/IMG_3191.jpg" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
(P.S. Lipstick marks on teeth haha)</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<u style="font-weight: bold;">Review</u>:</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>IT Cosmetics</b> is clearly a great makeup brand that addresses actual skin concerns, providing coverage without further aggravating it. If you're someone with problem, sensitive skin & especially if you need coverage for blemishes & marks while you resolve your skin issues, then I think <b>IT Cosmetics</b> is a brand you can look into! Just go to a Sephora outlet, test it out, see how you feel!</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
I would say my favourite products (if it wasn't obvious already) would be the:</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
#1 Confidence In A Cream Moisturiser</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
#2 Bye Bye Under Eye Concealer</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
#3 Your Skin But Better CC Cream</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
I felt these 3 products made the biggest impact & are more unique as they are suitable for people with problem skin. When it comes to eyeshadows, blush, lipsticks & so on... there are a zillion competing mass-market brands out there that can devote an entire makeup counter to a 100 different shades LOL.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Personally I don't feel I need extensive coverage for my skin. As much as I love the super-good-in-pictures-skin I just raved about above, I still don't like the idea of a full face of makeup. If you're like me, I think we can skip the CC Cream & just stick to concealer for problem areas!</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
But again, if you have problem skin & need/want to wear makeup still, skip the "in" brands. </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Find what works for you & your skin! <b>IT Cosmetics</b> for one, provides really good coverage while having a dermalogical focus in its products & brand philosophy.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="background-color: #cccccc;"> Find </span><b style="background-color: #cccccc;">IT Cosmetics</b><span style="background-color: #cccccc;"> online on </span><a href="http://www.sephora.com.sg/brands/it-cosmetics?utm_medium=referral&utm_campaign=INFLUENCERS%3A+IT+Cosmetics+Launch+seeding+%28SG%2FMY%29__991&aaid=5106&utm_content=Sophie+Willocq__5106&utm_source=influencer&acid=991" style="background-color: #cccccc;">www.sephora.sg</a><span style="background-color: #cccccc;"> or in Sephora stores!</span><span style="background-color: #cccccc;"> </span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Tata!</div>
</div>
sophiewillocqhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14949085151032830398noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-19447173.post-80405406321067519262016-07-28T03:03:00.000+08:002016-11-17T09:58:40.544+08:00Seoul Wandering<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
I was in Seoul for just one day this month so I took the opportunity to arrange a mini-shoot session with a photographer from <a href="https://wanderzoom.co/">WanderZoom</a>! I actually think this is a really great idea. How <a href="https://wanderzoom.co/">WanderZoom</a> works is to help match you up with photographers located in the city you're visiting! Kinda like any generic hotel booking website.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
I can't honestly say that if I weren't an "influencer" (whatever that means) I'd want to hire a photographer for holidays. I mean, it seems kinda excessive. But for a wedding shoot, a family portrait, special occasion... why not? It costs a lot to fly a Singaporean photographer overseas with you so instead you can work with a local one. I'd definitely be glad for this additional option when my time comes.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="background-color: #cccccc;"> It's actually my first time working with a photographer for my blog. </span><span style="background-color: #cccccc;"> </span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
No, really. I think it's pretty obvious that I've been quite out of the blogging/influencer scene for a while now due to my current job. During these 3 years things have changed so much & yeah, now we're apparently called <b>Influencers? Creatives? Content Creators?</b> - basically an ambiguous term for a group of people who are neither writers, photographers nor graphic artists. I've seen people comment that this new Influencer generation basically consists of talentless people who are just photogenic.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
I can't honestly say I disagree. It of course doesn't apply to everyone. There are still many influencers who have many talents & create great original content. Then we have the other spectrum - the ones that are just famous for... what exactly? I'm not sure. Looking good in pictures & having a great team behind them?</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
As I was saying, I've been out of the blogging scene but of course I never totally exited from it.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Which means that I still continue to get the usual emails with advertising/sponsorship queries, event invites... but they now say... <b>"will you & your photographer be joining us?"</b></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
And I'm like whutttttt....</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
When did this become a thing?</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
It's almost like a prerequisite now. I remember a hotel not-so-subtly replying me that it should be a photographer & not a +1 (be it your friend/partner). I mean excuse me?</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
But anyway, I digress.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-JXC534KFM0E/V5j759JUOVI/AAAAAAAAVmg/epwBWhc3kD4ndOy6WslNI6qVnZBoaB-sACLcB/s1600/160701_Sophie_0002.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-JXC534KFM0E/V5j759JUOVI/AAAAAAAAVmg/epwBWhc3kD4ndOy6WslNI6qVnZBoaB-sACLcB/s1600/160701_Sophie_0002.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-lHJiM5d6C34/V5j76OgdUSI/AAAAAAAAVmc/9Jad3BCS32QQpXDhWmJWa6zjRum70CQTQCLcB/s1600/160701_Sophie_0003.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-lHJiM5d6C34/V5j76OgdUSI/AAAAAAAAVmc/9Jad3BCS32QQpXDhWmJWa6zjRum70CQTQCLcB/s1600/160701_Sophie_0003.jpg" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-LnBK5HryuaM/V5j7557v3EI/AAAAAAAAVmY/G1CU1LnDqJkG_d66VTHLG-ZWYwznfj0FgCLcB/s1600/160701_Sophie_0004.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-LnBK5HryuaM/V5j7557v3EI/AAAAAAAAVmY/G1CU1LnDqJkG_d66VTHLG-ZWYwznfj0FgCLcB/s1600/160701_Sophie_0004.jpg" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-vr3qRJ8YS-I/V5j76l8vwdI/AAAAAAAAVmo/_kUKkWK_dCYQHKi2ZuIZZP-whu8hR1OMgCLcB/s1600/160701_Sophie_0013.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-vr3qRJ8YS-I/V5j76l8vwdI/AAAAAAAAVmo/_kUKkWK_dCYQHKi2ZuIZZP-whu8hR1OMgCLcB/s1600/160701_Sophie_0013.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-jTSVJPtDBFs/V5j77V9DKVI/AAAAAAAAVms/w87drdLsL_AYG-Joz8UEMHP1w_yefpV1ACLcB/s1600/160701_Sophie_0016.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-jTSVJPtDBFs/V5j77V9DKVI/AAAAAAAAVms/w87drdLsL_AYG-Joz8UEMHP1w_yefpV1ACLcB/s1600/160701_Sophie_0016.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ln8xIui7dfg/V5j77XYIe3I/AAAAAAAAVm0/pVPZjK3WFwI6ejPY-WKk98uTF69UtoIuACLcB/s1600/160701_Sophie_0017.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ln8xIui7dfg/V5j77XYIe3I/AAAAAAAAVm0/pVPZjK3WFwI6ejPY-WKk98uTF69UtoIuACLcB/s1600/160701_Sophie_0017.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-na3tp3zZsl4/V5j77QFba_I/AAAAAAAAVmw/c3_Dddom39MlrfPejSFD0Xsc7M1c_hm6wCLcB/s1600/160702_Sophie_0030.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-na3tp3zZsl4/V5j77QFba_I/AAAAAAAAVmw/c3_Dddom39MlrfPejSFD0Xsc7M1c_hm6wCLcB/s1600/160702_Sophie_0030.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-uhaO8CDyTiQ/V5j77zGRrDI/AAAAAAAAVm4/wVUPjIbEBLIprg5DINV-I4YkJ6XWdI8igCLcB/s1600/160702_Sophie_0032.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-uhaO8CDyTiQ/V5j77zGRrDI/AAAAAAAAVm4/wVUPjIbEBLIprg5DINV-I4YkJ6XWdI8igCLcB/s1600/160702_Sophie_0032.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-u_F2JyVYP0s/V5j77znslvI/AAAAAAAAVm8/BTtoGmiFj0Em7SkgSJJdUg5mq40vDwzzgCLcB/s1600/160702_Sophie_0035.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-u_F2JyVYP0s/V5j77znslvI/AAAAAAAAVm8/BTtoGmiFj0Em7SkgSJJdUg5mq40vDwzzgCLcB/s1600/160702_Sophie_0035.jpg" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Pictures were taken at <b>Namsan Park</b> & <b>Namdaemun Market</b>!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
These are the 2 pictures that I uploaded to Instagram before doing this blogpost:</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
</div>
<center>
<blockquote class="instagram-media" data-instgrm-version="7" style="background: #fff; border-radius: 3px; border: 0; box-shadow: 0 0 1px 0 rgba(0 , 0 , 0 , 0.5) , 0 1px 10px 0 rgba(0 , 0 , 0 , 0.15); margin: 1px; max-width: 658px; padding: 0; width: 99.375%;">
<div style="padding: 8px;">
<div style="background: #F8F8F8; line-height: 0; margin-top: 40px; padding: 62.4537037037% 0; text-align: center; width: 100%;">
<div style="background: url(data:image/png; display: block; height: 44px; margin: 0 auto -44px; position: relative; top: -22px; width: 44px;">
</div>
</div>
<div style="color: #c9c8cd; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 17px; margin-bottom: 0; margin-top: 8px; overflow: hidden; padding: 8px 0 7px; text-align: center; text-overflow: ellipsis; white-space: nowrap;">
<a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/BH_m_zMhcLt/" style="color: #c9c8cd; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: 17px; text-decoration: none;" target="_blank">A photo posted by Sophie Willocq 🐱 (@sophiewillocq)</a> on <time datetime="2016-07-18T07:08:55+00:00" style="font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 17px;">Jul 18, 2016 at 12:08am PDT</time></div>
</div>
</blockquote>
<script async="" defer="" src="//platform.instagram.com/en_US/embeds.js"></script>
</center>
<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
My friends commented that I had edited myself into oblivion.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
It's true, I may have overdone it but I couldn't figure out a way to lessen the editing without it looking ugly HAHA. It ended up looking wayyyy too fake-doll-like but... oh well. And the photographer had already done a round of editing before sending me the pictures so I had to work with his prior edits. Result? Too many chefs spoil the brew or something like that.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
By the way, completely edited on iPhone. It's so much easier with apps these days compared to Photoshop! I honestly prefer using editing apps to make those tweaks.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
And. The overall likes/response for this photo above - in which I'm apparently unrecognisable - is higher & more favourable than normal. Uhhhh what you saying guys? LOL.</div>
<br />
<br />
<center>
<blockquote class="instagram-media" data-instgrm-version="7" style="background: #fff; border-radius: 3px; border: 0; box-shadow: 0 0 1px 0 rgba(0 , 0 , 0 , 0.5) , 0 1px 10px 0 rgba(0 , 0 , 0 , 0.15); margin: 1px; max-width: 658px; padding: 0; width: 99.375%;">
<div style="padding: 8px;">
<div style="background: #F8F8F8; line-height: 0; margin-top: 40px; padding: 50.0% 0; text-align: center; width: 100%;">
<div style="background: url(data:image/png; display: block; height: 44px; margin: 0 auto -44px; position: relative; top: -22px; width: 44px;">
</div>
</div>
<div style="color: #c9c8cd; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 17px; margin-bottom: 0; margin-top: 8px; overflow: hidden; padding: 8px 0 7px; text-align: center; text-overflow: ellipsis; white-space: nowrap;">
<a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/BIE74gxB-eq/" style="color: #c9c8cd; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: 17px; text-decoration: none;" target="_blank">A photo posted by Sophie Willocq 🐱 (@sophiewillocq)</a> on <time datetime="2016-07-20T08:47:38+00:00" style="font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 17px;">Jul 20, 2016 at 1:47am PDT</time></div>
</div>
</blockquote>
<script async="" defer="" src="//platform.instagram.com/en_US/embeds.js"></script>
</center>
</div>
</div>
sophiewillocqhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14949085151032830398noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-19447173.post-77325646257945414752016-05-14T21:05:00.003+08:002016-05-14T21:05:51.016+08:00Unhappy<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
I find myself in these moods all the time. Sure when I'm out, with people, doing things... I laugh, I joke, I smile on cue for the camera... I post pictures, I look happy...</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
When I'm alone I cry so easily & so often it's embarrassing. </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
I don't even know why I'm crying.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
It hit me the other day:</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
I'm unhappy.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
I've been unhappy for a really long time.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
I can't even remember the last time I was happy.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
I don't quite understand. I don't understand how it's like to be happy. To have your general state of being - happy. Sure some things make me happy here & there; favourite foods, playing with cats, a piece of good news... But they just feel like small patches in a big cloud of unhappiness.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
I don't know how to stop being unhappy.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
I don't know what I'm looking for, what will make me happy.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
I don't know what to search for, where to start.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
</div>
sophiewillocqhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14949085151032830398noreply@blogger.com15tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-19447173.post-65551020607624221842016-04-08T04:58:00.000+08:002016-04-08T04:58:16.424+08:00Taipei 2016<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Flew up to Taipei in January to coincide with Shaun's birthday!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
I'm not quite sure why we ended up picking Taipei actually. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
The original plan was skiing in Japan but that was more of something I wanted to do (LOL) & the tickets turned out pretty expensive during that period so we gave up! Ended up suggesting Taipei as it's nearby enough, isn't too costly & my boyfriend eats a lot so...</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-xTp_Ffc8Auc/VvnJp4hpKjI/AAAAAAAAVjs/a9qxQsAt8iUZdpl_4l59_e-un1UD8lafA/s1600/IMG_1048.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-xTp_Ffc8Auc/VvnJp4hpKjI/AAAAAAAAVjs/a9qxQsAt8iUZdpl_4l59_e-un1UD8lafA/s1600/IMG_1048.jpg" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Our flight departed late at night from Changi Airport so we reached really early the next morning in Taipei! The plan was naturally to maximise the amount of time we'd have overseas; a natural tourist inclination right? Big mistake. We didn't factor in how tired we'd be & the fact that we had nowhere to rest since hotel check-ins are typically around 2pm...</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<b>P.S.</b> This is why short-term home rentals like AirBnB or Roomorama are better as they are often more flexible with check-in timings since they don't continuously have guests using the room.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Anyhow, so we found ourselves at Taoyuan International Airport at 7am with nowhere to go.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Did I also mention it was raining? So sightseeing would have sucked too.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
So we did what anybody would do (I think)...</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
We camped out at the airport. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
I actually slept like a solid 2 hours!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
I considered booking a hotel room for those few hours but it was really too costly/troublesome.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Business idea for anyone: Short-stay rooms that are NOT "love" hotels.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
I mean really, there's an obvious gap between late night/morning arrivals & hotel check-in times!</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Anyway, it was finally onwards to night markets & street food!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-BMLpsaIBHJ0/VvnJp5Mu4GI/AAAAAAAAVjs/pXdSc0sG6gYhW61WnXYr8HvtNYakc6QJg/s1600/IMG_1049.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-BMLpsaIBHJ0/VvnJp5Mu4GI/AAAAAAAAVjs/pXdSc0sG6gYhW61WnXYr8HvtNYakc6QJg/s1600/IMG_1049.jpg" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Wow I swear this looked & sounded epic in theory - mashed potato, ham, CHEESE, corn...</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
But it was extremely meh in reality.</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-LA-n_XySRVo/VvnJp49SxtI/AAAAAAAAVjs/AsweUPQoMd0oAVzL4-sdwvyEOWhR3CJPQ/s1600/IMG_1050.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-LA-n_XySRVo/VvnJp49SxtI/AAAAAAAAVjs/AsweUPQoMd0oAVzL4-sdwvyEOWhR3CJPQ/s1600/IMG_1050.jpg" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
This, on the other hand was really yummy! Inside the dough are whatever fillings you like - ham, cheese & corn for mine. However, it tragically fell to its death before I could get a good bite T_T</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-6plf-CrIMTU/VvnJqmygjNI/AAAAAAAAVjs/VRESSHcpP58mvCFxLLRkNHcc23E5lRYbQ/s1600/IMG_1052.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-6plf-CrIMTU/VvnJqmygjNI/AAAAAAAAVjs/VRESSHcpP58mvCFxLLRkNHcc23E5lRYbQ/s1600/IMG_1052.jpg" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
To be honest, I really didn't enjoy Taiwan's food.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
I already kinda suspected I wouldn't & this was confirmed LOL.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
I don't eat squid, tofu... weird stuff like intestines...</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Taipei's menu basically consisted of ALL MY WEIRD FOOD ITEMS.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Headed to <b>Tamsui Fisherman's Wharf</b> the next day!</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-LO2JbCLZ1dg/VvnJqng0siI/AAAAAAAAVjs/8-aZMJf3ZaYzMGf2sgWyV3BnvDu-OsiaA/s1600/IMG_1067.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-LO2JbCLZ1dg/VvnJqng0siI/AAAAAAAAVjs/8-aZMJf3ZaYzMGf2sgWyV3BnvDu-OsiaA/s1600/IMG_1067.jpg" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
That's the Lover's Bridge in the background, popular with people wanting to catch the sunset!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Unfortunately I'd have to say the wharf was pretty disappointing.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Somehow I imagined it to be more... wharf-y? LOL</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Like seafood restaurants, picking out fresh seafood to be cooked on the spot, stuff like that.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
In the end there was just an abysmal small row of shops that had NOTHING to do with seafood/sea.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Instead they peddled things like Japanese ramen, fried chicken & cheap generic souvenirs :(</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-mGXT5E7lIKo/VvnJqwNmasI/AAAAAAAAVjs/NNyJ8jA2Kg80ha9Hhj9OG-TMcKS54WrHw/s1600/IMG_1068.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-mGXT5E7lIKo/VvnJqwNmasI/AAAAAAAAVjs/NNyJ8jA2Kg80ha9Hhj9OG-TMcKS54WrHw/s1600/IMG_1068.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Hpfx65UAgVk/VvnJrqEnPXI/AAAAAAAAVjs/qBEwcjqVdYcSmav2Ui3KwRdSJ7SOd2zrg/s1600/IMG_1071.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Hpfx65UAgVk/VvnJrqEnPXI/AAAAAAAAVjs/qBEwcjqVdYcSmav2Ui3KwRdSJ7SOd2zrg/s1600/IMG_1071.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-qgCfC3Fufqg/VvnJrm3LrQI/AAAAAAAAVj4/NvM-7huN3mg-PPGjpdfcE1BkdzrcKR9QQ/s1600/IMG_1074.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-qgCfC3Fufqg/VvnJrm3LrQI/AAAAAAAAVj4/NvM-7huN3mg-PPGjpdfcE1BkdzrcKR9QQ/s1600/IMG_1074.jpg" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Stray doggy in the shopping centre!</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-qvzXE7tK_hs/VvnJsJGczDI/AAAAAAAAVjs/d2QuxLIPmCo5Iwc063MX2UzyI7FnbXI4w/s1600/IMG_1077.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-qvzXE7tK_hs/VvnJsJGczDI/AAAAAAAAVjs/d2QuxLIPmCo5Iwc063MX2UzyI7FnbXI4w/s1600/IMG_1077.jpg" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Bought dog food from the convenience store so here we are feeding them!</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-SYCeYG60MfE/VvnJsmXeBII/AAAAAAAAVjs/WASi3Edc_FkP0cz2nKuSmMBLE0JoPFLPg/s1600/IMG_1081.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-SYCeYG60MfE/VvnJsmXeBII/AAAAAAAAVjs/WASi3Edc_FkP0cz2nKuSmMBLE0JoPFLPg/s1600/IMG_1081.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-yeN-BhbvI3U/VvnJsqDOpiI/AAAAAAAAVjs/9EAhBTTvw_EVLhJxJhpAb4KP32OKGf38A/s1600/IMG_1083.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-yeN-BhbvI3U/VvnJsqDOpiI/AAAAAAAAVjs/9EAhBTTvw_EVLhJxJhpAb4KP32OKGf38A/s1600/IMG_1083.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Headed to <b>Tamsui (Danshui) Old Street</b> after that!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
It's really nearby the train/bus terminal so it's not hard to find.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Shops were similar to central Taipei street markets but things were slightly cheaper!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-90crSrfVZuA/VvnJs7ogT-I/AAAAAAAAVjs/Nus6FPmQ1iAdgEcMB1lKFqF4__nOjz1uQ/s1600/IMG_1089.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-90crSrfVZuA/VvnJs7ogT-I/AAAAAAAAVjs/Nus6FPmQ1iAdgEcMB1lKFqF4__nOjz1uQ/s1600/IMG_1089.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-kUGyUVSxIkQ/VvnJtbo7WpI/AAAAAAAAVjs/S7GdXYmJuzgzBK9t84FkjQCRORgbECEzg/s1600/IMG_1094.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-kUGyUVSxIkQ/VvnJtbo7WpI/AAAAAAAAVjs/S7GdXYmJuzgzBK9t84FkjQCRORgbECEzg/s1600/IMG_1094.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
And definitely the best Taipei street market... <b>Raohe</b>!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
The other night markets were a little disappointing as they were smaller & very repetitive.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
So definitely go to Raohe! There was so much more food & things to see!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-RDbs1ZN3J20/VvnJt77h7QI/AAAAAAAAVgw/O2Nbb-Wx6E4AvQYX9gtBMnZHgmVZ-IpJA/s1600/IMG_1101.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-RDbs1ZN3J20/VvnJt77h7QI/AAAAAAAAVgw/O2Nbb-Wx6E4AvQYX9gtBMnZHgmVZ-IpJA/s1600/IMG_1101.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-SnJ0EFAPXxM/VvnJuKvWHPI/AAAAAAAAVjs/oYWclcw6TjAZnAox76OcmyS3CviJDLuHA/s1600/IMG_1102.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-SnJ0EFAPXxM/VvnJuKvWHPI/AAAAAAAAVjs/oYWclcw6TjAZnAox76OcmyS3CviJDLuHA/s1600/IMG_1102.jpg" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Yum, fried beef cubes!</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-DcunnuCCeHM/VvnJuhoHBGI/AAAAAAAAVj4/e0NLXZU_t-Iqla7cAIguzYqVvbtmIM-3Q/s1600/IMG_1104.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-DcunnuCCeHM/VvnJuhoHBGI/AAAAAAAAVj4/e0NLXZU_t-Iqla7cAIguzYqVvbtmIM-3Q/s1600/IMG_1104.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-6SohVcEtdE4/VvnJuo0NXXI/AAAAAAAAVj4/IJxKqPvpVo4RS7-LKijccKqbIbompDeaw/s1600/IMG_1107.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-6SohVcEtdE4/VvnJuo0NXXI/AAAAAAAAVj4/IJxKqPvpVo4RS7-LKijccKqbIbompDeaw/s1600/IMG_1107.jpg" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Got a dessert crepe!</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Bright & early the next day to go to <b>Jiufen</b>! </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Jiufen is a small town outside of Taipei & we took a bus there!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
The hillside town is characterised by red hanging lanterns & was the inspiration for the village featured in Studio Ghibli's <i>Spirited Away</i>! I have watched that movie a few times & I can see some resemblance, but overall I wouldn't say it was that distinctive as there were no major markers other than maybe the red lanterns... The buildings & alleys are pretty commonplace among small towns.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-vqpoCDiGtMw/VvnJu6usNPI/AAAAAAAAVj4/l2AkpZleRaE9wb3v7ABSWD5DakB9kTecA/s1600/IMG_1131.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-vqpoCDiGtMw/VvnJu6usNPI/AAAAAAAAVj4/l2AkpZleRaE9wb3v7ABSWD5DakB9kTecA/s1600/IMG_1131.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-a0pKlrkBKwI/VvnJv9ljQNI/AAAAAAAAVj4/YKAJ_KpW3ds0mOowbKy2hhhe8GQSxa5Jg/s1600/IMG_1133.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-a0pKlrkBKwI/VvnJv9ljQNI/AAAAAAAAVj4/YKAJ_KpW3ds0mOowbKy2hhhe8GQSxa5Jg/s1600/IMG_1133.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-KzksRA9Fz98/VvnJvxxjhII/AAAAAAAAVj4/hCBkbZfUJJIvhZAp7Ump8v37GmjWeh8vw/s1600/IMG_1137.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-KzksRA9Fz98/VvnJvxxjhII/AAAAAAAAVj4/hCBkbZfUJJIvhZAp7Ump8v37GmjWeh8vw/s1600/IMG_1137.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-HZxPi-yNvNg/VvnJvyo4rII/AAAAAAAAVj4/-zzjBvYd6N0Ig7K4ZgiGx0ZKsTnAA1Usg/s1600/IMG_1139.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-HZxPi-yNvNg/VvnJvyo4rII/AAAAAAAAVj4/-zzjBvYd6N0Ig7K4ZgiGx0ZKsTnAA1Usg/s1600/IMG_1139.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-mzHBbqGt-Iw/VvnJwkgAPsI/AAAAAAAAVj4/_50rk2pKHqcOvV21ScGbc80RkVAqzartg/s1600/IMG_1141.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-mzHBbqGt-Iw/VvnJwkgAPsI/AAAAAAAAVj4/_50rk2pKHqcOvV21ScGbc80RkVAqzartg/s1600/IMG_1141.jpg" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Oh Jiufen is also famous for their teahouses! </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
There were lots of quaint ones like these which offer you a great view down the hill!</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-4JsCZqTDzb0/VvnJw-2SZFI/AAAAAAAAVj4/Vjex0ZS_zUwNioQ0HqK7tAVAHttmKa2fQ/s1600/IMG_1144.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-4JsCZqTDzb0/VvnJw-2SZFI/AAAAAAAAVj4/Vjex0ZS_zUwNioQ0HqK7tAVAHttmKa2fQ/s1600/IMG_1144.jpg" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
This might be one of the settings which most reminded me of <i>Spirited Away</i>!</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-rbNWQfWE1L4/VvnJwx4hjmI/AAAAAAAAVj4/ydmBhJs-ItU8UhwiSQh9aaaWOmhnHogxg/s1600/IMG_1146.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-rbNWQfWE1L4/VvnJwx4hjmI/AAAAAAAAVj4/ydmBhJs-ItU8UhwiSQh9aaaWOmhnHogxg/s1600/IMG_1146.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-YSY1PIMKbpM/VvnJxpNjR0I/AAAAAAAAVhg/51JosbvCX7gIVc5EOlztXYiO-SQYh83_w/s1600/IMG_1153.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-YSY1PIMKbpM/VvnJxpNjR0I/AAAAAAAAVhg/51JosbvCX7gIVc5EOlztXYiO-SQYh83_w/s1600/IMG_1153.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-2kbUMYDQxNA/VvnJxiOwwNI/AAAAAAAAVho/VJ37iSh7zkkLNclIr9FIA71uX3mV55qLg/s1600/IMG_1160.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-2kbUMYDQxNA/VvnJxiOwwNI/AAAAAAAAVho/VJ37iSh7zkkLNclIr9FIA71uX3mV55qLg/s1600/IMG_1160.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-TG0mz9bcVK8/VvnJyAVMezI/AAAAAAAAVhk/gSgFc6J8HJUN083D-_bcV1mcHkCG5CdOQ/s1600/IMG_1166.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-TG0mz9bcVK8/VvnJyAVMezI/AAAAAAAAVhk/gSgFc6J8HJUN083D-_bcV1mcHkCG5CdOQ/s1600/IMG_1166.jpg" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
From Jiufen we took a bus to <b>Ruifang</b> train station. Ruifang station is a more major station from which you can go to Taipei, but before we headed back we made another stop...</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
To the...</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<b><span style="font-size: large;">HOUTONG CAT VILLAGE</span></b></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
THE HIGHLIGHT OF MY ENTIRE TRIP</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
LOL</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-URAh-8lfaS4/VvnJyt4omII/AAAAAAAAVhs/O9fx0NrY2BYDoVF8gEvDGkcPco_yRHXqA/s1600/IMG_1181.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-URAh-8lfaS4/VvnJyt4omII/AAAAAAAAVhs/O9fx0NrY2BYDoVF8gEvDGkcPco_yRHXqA/s1600/IMG_1181.jpg" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
CAT CAT CAT CAT</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-XeNKA7yL0Ek/VvnJy9HaBYI/AAAAAAAAVj4/09mpyAYlQxITulVxjXOe6HuVs5_UrSBSw/s1600/IMG_1182.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-XeNKA7yL0Ek/VvnJy9HaBYI/AAAAAAAAVj4/09mpyAYlQxITulVxjXOe6HuVs5_UrSBSw/s1600/IMG_1182.jpg" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
CAT CAT CAT CAT</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-H01chqayzkw/VvnJzX67sSI/AAAAAAAAVj4/OTLpQDDo4c0WvllnB8H19nT_3VxaL2Fgw/s1600/IMG_1183.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-H01chqayzkw/VvnJzX67sSI/AAAAAAAAVj4/OTLpQDDo4c0WvllnB8H19nT_3VxaL2Fgw/s1600/IMG_1183.jpg" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
CAT CAT CAT CAT</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-S7dgclAtauE/VvnJzZzY_uI/AAAAAAAAVj4/lTb4w2UMDAcpyoolWkseZnn6ciV-l-SOQ/s1600/IMG_1193.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-S7dgclAtauE/VvnJzZzY_uI/AAAAAAAAVj4/lTb4w2UMDAcpyoolWkseZnn6ciV-l-SOQ/s1600/IMG_1193.jpg" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
CAT</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ZUIhoOfoSEg/VvnJzl3FwQI/AAAAAAAAVj4/FBkCVvavt14E-zEGPWpJy_x4jrQQFdAmg/s1600/IMG_1200.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ZUIhoOfoSEg/VvnJzl3FwQI/AAAAAAAAVj4/FBkCVvavt14E-zEGPWpJy_x4jrQQFdAmg/s1600/IMG_1200.jpg" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
CAT</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-HNWgL8w_3As/Vwa7wKlwNxI/AAAAAAAAVkU/Nt2Wa5m0_80Zlqnh-3GPPUIjfjALZe3Hw/s1600/IMG_1202.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-HNWgL8w_3As/Vwa7wKlwNxI/AAAAAAAAVkU/Nt2Wa5m0_80Zlqnh-3GPPUIjfjALZe3Hw/s1600/IMG_1202.jpg" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
CAT!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Ok you get it.</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-deBm-k5W8DQ/VvnJ0d_0l3I/AAAAAAAAVj4/De5BVbXTgSME-3SI8oPFigV8YQG1qhsjA/s1600/IMG_1204.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-deBm-k5W8DQ/VvnJ0d_0l3I/AAAAAAAAVj4/De5BVbXTgSME-3SI8oPFigV8YQG1qhsjA/s1600/IMG_1204.jpg" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Sooo many cats!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
It's a really, really small village.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
There isn't much else there other than the cats & a few shops selling cat-related trinkets!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
I remember one shop had music sung/played in the form of <b>meows</b>.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
As in... literally the song just went <i>"meow meow meow meow"</i> to the tune of a well-known song but I forgot what. And it was on loop. Non-stop meowing.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-w8sl5YPPeCU/VvnJ0kF9CkI/AAAAAAAAVjw/_59WwDaQo2o68Iyn3tdJcl6Yleoxlz78Q/s1600/IMG_1219.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-w8sl5YPPeCU/VvnJ0kF9CkI/AAAAAAAAVjw/_59WwDaQo2o68Iyn3tdJcl6Yleoxlz78Q/s1600/IMG_1219.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-NQed_48fQWs/VvnJ1OTWUlI/AAAAAAAAVjw/Ho_qkk8q0QMjDBB1YHZph_aClNZhi1Jgg/s1600/IMG_1231.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-NQed_48fQWs/VvnJ1OTWUlI/AAAAAAAAVjw/Ho_qkk8q0QMjDBB1YHZph_aClNZhi1Jgg/s1600/IMG_1231.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-_d88LxGrA3s/VvnJ1UOi_hI/AAAAAAAAVjw/fvpYkeLSnuY6u2E6EZgxy-A2uy3zBeK7Q/s1600/IMG_1235.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-_d88LxGrA3s/VvnJ1UOi_hI/AAAAAAAAVjw/fvpYkeLSnuY6u2E6EZgxy-A2uy3zBeK7Q/s1600/IMG_1235.jpg" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Cats sleeping in boxes as soon as you exit the train station!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
I was soooo excited!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
After Houtong we headed to <b>Shifen</b> to release lanterns!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Wow I didn't even recall that we did so many things in one day.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Again, really small village. I don't know if there's anything there other than lanterns actually.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
We got there pretty late so nothing was open other than lantern shops!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
The shopkeepers will come to you right away proposing their lanterns.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
All the shops are priced the same anyway so it really doesn't matter!</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-SLkOWLkFEwU/VvnJ11rOuoI/AAAAAAAAVjw/Q6RmbqjeyeY0MwQ-X9_OnzQ_YT5OlkSgg/s1600/IMG_1236.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-SLkOWLkFEwU/VvnJ11rOuoI/AAAAAAAAVjw/Q6RmbqjeyeY0MwQ-X9_OnzQ_YT5OlkSgg/s1600/IMG_1236.jpg" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
You can pick various combinations of colours!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
The most expensive is naturally having all 4 colours - one on each side - with each colour representing a particular part in life. Love, Health, Money... etc.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
I can't recall exactly how much it cost but it was about S$10 - S$20.</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-QrIwUO4wTC4/VvnJ1krgzfI/AAAAAAAAVjw/4fTkHG7MjVAUH6AI5oGz481W4TRke3aMg/s1600/IMG_1238.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-QrIwUO4wTC4/VvnJ1krgzfI/AAAAAAAAVjw/4fTkHG7MjVAUH6AI5oGz481W4TRke3aMg/s1600/IMG_1238.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Gw3qWuSnJfs/VvnJ2SMvAfI/AAAAAAAAVjw/gP6TCf95Yn8Qx9gqyvBTkWZlfNJRCr7GA/s1600/IMG_1239.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Gw3qWuSnJfs/VvnJ2SMvAfI/AAAAAAAAVjw/gP6TCf95Yn8Qx9gqyvBTkWZlfNJRCr7GA/s1600/IMG_1239.jpg" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Our money wish!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Who drew a better Fortune Kitty? :D</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Decided not to bother with winning the lottery & things like that haha.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
I think the most important is not having to worry about it - affording necessities like food, housing, education, healthcare... these can add up to A LOT. Not having money worries means you already have a decent amount of it :) Anything else is a luxurious bonus :)</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-YmzPVoLb1cQ/VvnJ2nFK3kI/AAAAAAAAVjw/OsuOBaygcMsi4p7_y_unjIXRflN_qUWuw/s1600/IMG_1240.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-YmzPVoLb1cQ/VvnJ2nFK3kI/AAAAAAAAVjw/OsuOBaygcMsi4p7_y_unjIXRflN_qUWuw/s1600/IMG_1240.jpg" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Erm I forgot what the Chinese words are.</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-e5q4AervvFM/VvnJ2j7tDjI/AAAAAAAAVjw/cjrI_-gSh4YsKGeC_oUVQNOhZd2yNth4A/s1600/IMG_1245.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-e5q4AervvFM/VvnJ2j7tDjI/AAAAAAAAVjw/cjrI_-gSh4YsKGeC_oUVQNOhZd2yNth4A/s1600/IMG_1245.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-kKjPnxFTbtQ/VvnJ3ILQmnI/AAAAAAAAVjw/LC-0ftPGXWwnELzQjPBGomNpEQd-uXmQw/s1600/IMG_1249.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-kKjPnxFTbtQ/VvnJ3ILQmnI/AAAAAAAAVjw/LC-0ftPGXWwnELzQjPBGomNpEQd-uXmQw/s1600/IMG_1249.jpg" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
The shopkeepers will help you take pictures & videos as well!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Although I can't promise the same for when it's crowded in the daytime.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
That was probably our most fulfilling day!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Because the next day... was checkout.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Before going to the airport we explored a little around our area for food!</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-fLkMUlRFoo8/VvnJ3mlsWdI/AAAAAAAAVjw/co5MiUQhMswi1CBs6-bDsyJM7ezs7kljw/s1600/IMG_1261.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-fLkMUlRFoo8/VvnJ3mlsWdI/AAAAAAAAVjw/co5MiUQhMswi1CBs6-bDsyJM7ezs7kljw/s1600/IMG_1261.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-9HOO3oZ-OOg/VvnJ3vrlW5I/AAAAAAAAVjw/n4mGJjxj4OQszlaOz18h26SMIZ44XtsJw/s1600/IMG_1275.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-9HOO3oZ-OOg/VvnJ3vrlW5I/AAAAAAAAVjw/n4mGJjxj4OQszlaOz18h26SMIZ44XtsJw/s1600/IMG_1275.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-c6jaQLpzots/VvnJ4FFfWOI/AAAAAAAAVjw/wxW6R2JMj38u9g8HcgifOF5euyxUzthJg/s1600/IMG_1282.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-c6jaQLpzots/VvnJ4FFfWOI/AAAAAAAAVjw/wxW6R2JMj38u9g8HcgifOF5euyxUzthJg/s1600/IMG_1282.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-q-NeCsLViVg/VvnJ4f9IVCI/AAAAAAAAVjw/Idhe55QjFOMHbBLc8WuWS9Aot5RCeUW_w/s1600/IMG_1291.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-q-NeCsLViVg/VvnJ4f9IVCI/AAAAAAAAVjw/Idhe55QjFOMHbBLc8WuWS9Aot5RCeUW_w/s1600/IMG_1291.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-hbaEa8vdsXU/VvnJ4mkxv8I/AAAAAAAAVjw/sa6FaYpLhd4smnksZ4UdjPxFAJNuDstcw/s1600/IMG_1299.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-hbaEa8vdsXU/VvnJ4mkxv8I/AAAAAAAAVjw/sa6FaYpLhd4smnksZ4UdjPxFAJNuDstcw/s1600/IMG_1299.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
If you might remember at the start of the post - I mentioned checking into a hotel.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Yes, I did book a hotel room for our stay in Taipei.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
However when I got there... it was huge shock.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
The room was SO disappointing.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
It was really, really tiny. Sitting on the bed I could literally touch BOTH the toilet & main door.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
We couldn't even open up the suitcase fully.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
I had found it on <a href="http://booking.com/">Booking.com</a> & boy, are pictures deceiving.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
I'm generally quite thorough with my research, checking reviews & ratings.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Both of these checked out good for this hotel.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
P.S. It's called <a href="http://www.booking.com/hotel/tw/rf-hotel.en-gb.html?aid=311984;label=rf-hotel-hkAcIe4SD6V5QiXY7qqepwS32461625593%3Apl%3Ata%3Ap1%3Ap2300%2C000%3Aac%3Aap1t1%3Aneg%3Afi%3Atikwd-49866692813%3Alp2702%3Ali%3Adec%3Adm;sid=49e32344e4757d8505dcd40d61afcc27;dcid=12;checkin=2016-04-08;checkout=2016-04-09;dest_id=-2637882;dest_type=city;dist=0;group_adults=2;highlighted_blocks=50529705_88351732_0_1;no_rooms=1;room1=A%2CA;sb_price_type=total;srfid=64b1a93f07ef0cd441a9529005cd74219a9b67e9X1;type=total;ucfs=1&">RF Hotel</a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Here is the review I left:</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
"<i>The room was INCREDIBLY TINY. We opened the door & were incredibly shocked. The bed was literally right at the door & we couldn't even open up our suitcase. From the bed I am able to touch both the main door, & the toilet door. That is how little floor space there is. I know that for the price I couldn't expect a large room, but this room was far, far below expectation. Even the smallest room you see on their Booking.com pictures, was larger than the one we got. So definitely not true to pictures. </i></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i><br /></i></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i>Upon entering the room I also went back to the <a href="http://booking.com/">Booking.com</a> website to check the reviews because I was confused how such a tiny room could get decent reviews. And I have to say that I realised the reviews are extremes - 9.9s & 10s (who ever gives 10s???) versus those like mine, which mention the tininess. I leave you to infer what you can from that. Finally in conclusion, the room was so depressing that we foreited our stay & checked out after 2 nights for another hotel.</i>"</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
I didn't expect luxury, but no hotel/hostel/apartment has fallen so far below my expectations.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
And yes, I find the reviews incredibly fishy. Most of the reviews are extremes - either 9s & 10s or 3s & 4s. I find it hard to believe that people would give a full 10 to anything unless the experience was really fantastic, something I deem rather unlikely. Furthermore, many of these reviews supposedly came from Singapore. I don't know about you, but I have never heard of Singaporeans being particularly appreciative nor generous. In fact, we're famous for complaining about every little thing. How am I to believe that Singaporeans would give a perfect 10, or a 9.9 to anything?</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
So long story short...</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
I grappled for other options & managed to get in touch with <b><a href="http://www.roomorama.com/users/sophiewillocq/invite">Roomorama</a></b>!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
I forfeited my fully-paid-for stay & moved to an apartment I picked out.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
AND IT WAS SUCH A RELIEF.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-uSlzy2uVx4I/VvnJ4z40W_I/AAAAAAAAVjw/xHr5p4XFgv0xuQnElmyVOaGFMKWaX3cLg/s1600/IMG_1301.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-uSlzy2uVx4I/VvnJ4z40W_I/AAAAAAAAVjw/xHr5p4XFgv0xuQnElmyVOaGFMKWaX3cLg/s1600/IMG_1301.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-7Er67XFbBa0/VvnJ5E3N_nI/AAAAAAAAVjw/cD4XoXlVdhc9c4cKVbvM-ncdy7sAjz54A/s1600/IMG_1302.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-7Er67XFbBa0/VvnJ5E3N_nI/AAAAAAAAVjw/cD4XoXlVdhc9c4cKVbvM-ncdy7sAjz54A/s1600/IMG_1302.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-J-aDJFBpS74/VvnJ5RJyWkI/AAAAAAAAVjw/u3G06W2kTyMeRQQGGzjER-eaRIeiMFrew/s1600/IMG_1303.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-J-aDJFBpS74/VvnJ5RJyWkI/AAAAAAAAVjw/u3G06W2kTyMeRQQGGzjER-eaRIeiMFrew/s1600/IMG_1303.jpg" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
The apartment was so nice!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Turned out even better than I expected as the listing on Roomorama only had 3 pictures.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
I love all the natural light coming in, the big sofa area & especially the really cool bathroom!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
It's not pictured, but above the bathtub is a <b>skylight</b>.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-aRmv8ApyOMs/VvnJ5tJfESI/AAAAAAAAVjw/W9wx9g_gzns33GC_Elmny13c9qKp7f38w/s1600/IMG_1365.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-aRmv8ApyOMs/VvnJ5tJfESI/AAAAAAAAVjw/W9wx9g_gzns33GC_Elmny13c9qKp7f38w/s1600/IMG_1365.jpg" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Thank you so much for coming through <a href="http://www.roomorama.com/users/sophiewillocq/invite">Roomorama</a>!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
If you sign up with <a href="http://www.roomorama.com/users/sophiewillocq/invite">MY LINK</a>, you automatically get 50USD credit (approx S$70)!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.roomorama.com/users/sophiewillocq/invite">www.roomorama.com/users/sophiewillocq/invite</a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
My apartment was in a fantastic location as well - right beside the MTR & lots of nice cafes, restaurants & convenience stores! If you'd like to view my apartment's listing, click <a href="https://www.roomorama.com/short-term-rentals/taipei/xinyi-district/apartment/70268">HERE</a>.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
And here is a rundown of my snaps during my Taipei trip!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
If you haven't already, follow me on Snapchat <b>@sophiewillocq</b> :D</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-QGyPse8HQXk/VvnJ50uTqsI/AAAAAAAAVj4/O4E-hC1iu0QzvP99J1E8ZCqKhJUhSQz9Q/s1600/IMG_3090.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-QGyPse8HQXk/VvnJ50uTqsI/AAAAAAAAVj4/O4E-hC1iu0QzvP99J1E8ZCqKhJUhSQz9Q/s1600/IMG_3090.jpg" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Yes this was the weather T_T</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
It rained literally 24/7 for the first few days.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
It was so unfortunate that the weather was so gloomy!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
That's not the worst part; when the rain stopped, the temperature drastically dipped.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
It actually dropped to a low of <b>3°C</b>! That was at the same time as Thailand's freak temperature drop to 15°C. I saw on the news that some old folks even died in more rural parts of Taiwan :O</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
It was just so unexpected & we were really not prepared!</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-avHAYQ6d3yo/VvnJ6GkAlfI/AAAAAAAAVj8/zy5-XVx7UVYO2K82KKjRN5pOwYg4cnUcg/s1600/IMG_3096.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-avHAYQ6d3yo/VvnJ6GkAlfI/AAAAAAAAVj8/zy5-XVx7UVYO2K82KKjRN5pOwYg4cnUcg/s1600/IMG_3096.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-DqlehEr8s8Y/VvnJ6978j-I/AAAAAAAAVj4/_e34xawFVdYubTvrx2gWakfsyv8aNtgug/s1600/IMG_3110.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-DqlehEr8s8Y/VvnJ6978j-I/AAAAAAAAVj4/_e34xawFVdYubTvrx2gWakfsyv8aNtgug/s1600/IMG_3110.jpg" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
See! 5°C FML T_T</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-x68pZw9y4qI/VvnJ68eSoCI/AAAAAAAAVj4/nSBeL4BEiKIlVB2OIO9GdWTlYKbvbTsQg/s1600/IMG_3106.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-x68pZw9y4qI/VvnJ68eSoCI/AAAAAAAAVj4/nSBeL4BEiKIlVB2OIO9GdWTlYKbvbTsQg/s1600/IMG_3106.jpg" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Hehe I know it's a fake/inspired Craftholic toy but it's still cute!</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-eJ2D7-Fmu6A/VvnJ7ehduOI/AAAAAAAAVj4/9tBcX_L1OWsqMuekeULga6S2zTsD9sTbA/s1600/IMG_3136.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-eJ2D7-Fmu6A/VvnJ7ehduOI/AAAAAAAAVj4/9tBcX_L1OWsqMuekeULga6S2zTsD9sTbA/s1600/IMG_3136.jpg" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
CAT! So many cute cat-themed decorations all over Houtong!</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Ei39NTfZo_Y/VvnJ7xyGM0I/AAAAAAAAVjw/qrWAxZNXVgUT06EsLKr0R4vAbRkIXOZ2A/s1600/IMG_3145.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Ei39NTfZo_Y/VvnJ7xyGM0I/AAAAAAAAVjw/qrWAxZNXVgUT06EsLKr0R4vAbRkIXOZ2A/s1600/IMG_3145.jpg" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
#OOTD woes...</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-_ZC839jmoJQ/VvnJ8KomYhI/AAAAAAAAVjw/Pw8J73_RknstQkz3klQBiRPrAQ5fRMA_w/s1600/IMG_3146.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-_ZC839jmoJQ/VvnJ8KomYhI/AAAAAAAAVjw/Pw8J73_RknstQkz3klQBiRPrAQ5fRMA_w/s1600/IMG_3146.jpg" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
And yes. Right after we lit our lanterns then bought these little fortune kitty charms, the shopkeeper informed us the last train was leaving in 3 minutes! So we ran & I slipped & fell T_T</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
And after Shaun picked me up & we dashed into the train, 2 old ladies slowly ambled their way over.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Run & fall down for nothing... LOL</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
But anyway some people claim that when you make wishes, it can be a good thing that something minor happens to you. It's like getting rid of all the bad luck in a relatively harmless form rather than facing it in a bigger way later on! Ok shall #ThinkPositive.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br />
I guess that about wraps up the Taipei trip!<br />
My favourite was definitely the last day where we covered <b>Jiufen, Houtong & Shifen</b>!<br />
Would definitely recommend a visit outside of Taipei!<br />
<br />
Sadly I have to say overall our trip was a little unlucky; what with the cold spell, accommodation issues, perpetual rain, falling down... & my complete incompatibility with Taiwanese food... hahaha.<br />
<br />
Ah but yes, I totally forgot about <b>hot spring baths</b>!<br />
Those are really popular as well but we didn't get a chance to do them so do it if you get to!<br />
<br />
Oh well... CAT CAT CAT CAT<br />
:)<br />
<div>
<br /></div>
</div>
</div>
sophiewillocqhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14949085151032830398noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-19447173.post-87556940538854298472016-01-12T04:46:00.001+08:002016-01-12T06:04:28.842+08:00Bali'15<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-NFASeqbQ18s/VpQGrkstXLI/AAAAAAAAVWA/Ni-nSpOe4U8/s1600/Bali2015.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="178" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-NFASeqbQ18s/VpQGrkstXLI/AAAAAAAAVWA/Ni-nSpOe4U8/s320/Bali2015.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Went to Bali sometime last year for a quick getaway! I can't remember exactly when... August?</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
It was a short 4D3N, which is frankly too short for Bali in my opinion! But we couldn't spare any more days away from work so... Itching for a beach holiday!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
This post is a mixture of pictures from my DSLR (Canon 700D) & a GoPro 3!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-CCRMtXHk-mo/VpQLYvGjeII/AAAAAAAAVc8/NqONtDIXQw8/s1600/divider.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="6" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-CCRMtXHk-mo/VpQLYvGjeII/AAAAAAAAVc8/NqONtDIXQw8/s320/divider.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
The GoPro was especially useful for our snorkelling, which we did on Nusa Lembogan. More & more people are learning about these 2 small islands off the coast of Bali, called Nusa Lembogan & Nusa Ceningan. To get there you can book a boat from any of the day-trip vendors you'll see on the streets. We Googled a lot & found it wasn't particularly cheaper nor better to book from "official" boats online so we went ahead with the street vendors, who also include hotel pick-up!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
I got the idea to check out these 2 islands after seeing's Sophia's <a href="http://sophiachong.com/2015/06/bali-guide-20/">blogpost</a> on it!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
She actually booked a private driver, which I wouldn't recommend because it's 1) quite pricey & 2) Nusa Ceningan can't take cars at all. It's accessible only by boat or a small bridge, so only by walking or by scooter! Our scooter only costs us about 10SGD for the whole day & it was pretty fun!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-CCRMtXHk-mo/VpQLYvGjeII/AAAAAAAAVc8/NqONtDIXQw8/s1600/divider.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="6" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-CCRMtXHk-mo/VpQLYvGjeII/AAAAAAAAVc8/NqONtDIXQw8/s320/divider.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Once we arrived on Nusa Lembogan we went into one of the activities vendors & picked snorkelling!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
There's a few snorkelling points on the island with varying features, e.g. manta rays.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
However they're spread out over all the coasts so we just went with what was the most logical route for all the spots on the island we intended to cover. Do remember that the island isn't that developed so there are only a few major roads that connect all the spots & you need to factor in travel time!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-piwdXTQ0_l4/VpQGrsR6-GI/AAAAAAAAVWE/5updG-o81IQ/s1600/GOPR0125.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-piwdXTQ0_l4/VpQGrsR6-GI/AAAAAAAAVWE/5updG-o81IQ/s1600/GOPR0125.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-6uvAQEsr6CI/VpQGropQK0I/AAAAAAAAVWI/oVh9gQhLZgE/s1600/GOPR0127.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-6uvAQEsr6CI/VpQGropQK0I/AAAAAAAAVWI/oVh9gQhLZgE/s1600/GOPR0127.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-6g-4B8q23Kc/VpQGsWzr-kI/AAAAAAAAVWM/1DQbTUGTmQ8/s1600/GOPR0128.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-6g-4B8q23Kc/VpQGsWzr-kI/AAAAAAAAVWM/1DQbTUGTmQ8/s1600/GOPR0128.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-HsGGayyA2mg/VpQGslYSjnI/AAAAAAAAVWU/Va9s8s_1EKw/s1600/GOPR0133.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-HsGGayyA2mg/VpQGslYSjnI/AAAAAAAAVWU/Va9s8s_1EKw/s1600/GOPR0133.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-sFMbH-G0v6w/VpQGsizKwdI/AAAAAAAAVWY/m3dVndGU81U/s1600/GOPR0137.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-sFMbH-G0v6w/VpQGsizKwdI/AAAAAAAAVWY/m3dVndGU81U/s1600/GOPR0137.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-x-gpNfF_aS0/VpQGtF-HAJI/AAAAAAAAVWg/EdBCTHxfVXc/s1600/GOPR0138.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-x-gpNfF_aS0/VpQGtF-HAJI/AAAAAAAAVWg/EdBCTHxfVXc/s1600/GOPR0138.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-CcUx6QQLFac/VpQGtUDqPKI/AAAAAAAAVWs/oazVAdKMd0A/s1600/GOPR0142.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-CcUx6QQLFac/VpQGtUDqPKI/AAAAAAAAVWs/oazVAdKMd0A/s1600/GOPR0142.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ErhCir2VjR8/VpQGtkRuppI/AAAAAAAAVW0/VyxvrNem5rU/s1600/GOPR0143.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ErhCir2VjR8/VpQGtkRuppI/AAAAAAAAVW0/VyxvrNem5rU/s1600/GOPR0143.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ie8soZRajLo/VpQGtw9gqzI/AAAAAAAAVW8/r08JZTFVwec/s1600/GOPR0144.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ie8soZRajLo/VpQGtw9gqzI/AAAAAAAAVW8/r08JZTFVwec/s1600/GOPR0144.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-dhpN9E6D7TM/VpQGuBGFw3I/AAAAAAAAVXE/JWFB7VskWN0/s1600/GOPR0147.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-dhpN9E6D7TM/VpQGuBGFw3I/AAAAAAAAVXE/JWFB7VskWN0/s1600/GOPR0147.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-EVefMFpI2IQ/VpQGuZ0gmYI/AAAAAAAAVXM/T6fTMFPj3X0/s1600/GOPR0148.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-EVefMFpI2IQ/VpQGuZ0gmYI/AAAAAAAAVXM/T6fTMFPj3X0/s1600/GOPR0148.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-MZ0otRsFU4A/VpQGuiovQUI/AAAAAAAAVXU/X_kAaiBeI-Q/s1600/GOPR0149.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-MZ0otRsFU4A/VpQGuiovQUI/AAAAAAAAVXU/X_kAaiBeI-Q/s1600/GOPR0149.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-9GQ8CDeZBw4/VpQGu2K4qsI/AAAAAAAAVXc/caqQBQLXuZY/s1600/GOPR0150.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-9GQ8CDeZBw4/VpQGu2K4qsI/AAAAAAAAVXc/caqQBQLXuZY/s1600/GOPR0150.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-atMxOa4snbs/VpQGvJx5LmI/AAAAAAAAVXk/Pbxye90sPFg/s1600/GOPR0151.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-atMxOa4snbs/VpQGvJx5LmI/AAAAAAAAVXk/Pbxye90sPFg/s1600/GOPR0151.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-TiBD85wjsDA/VpQGvfHvf6I/AAAAAAAAVXs/qqHsoLyIoss/s1600/GOPR0152.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-TiBD85wjsDA/VpQGvfHvf6I/AAAAAAAAVXs/qqHsoLyIoss/s1600/GOPR0152.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-sUNvMEvHMHM/VpQGvjQvaKI/AAAAAAAAVX0/hnJFZ_FoAcI/s1600/GOPR0153.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-sUNvMEvHMHM/VpQGvjQvaKI/AAAAAAAAVX0/hnJFZ_FoAcI/s1600/GOPR0153.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-H-Ck4L3qMjw/VpQGv45-LbI/AAAAAAAAVX8/A06gOZf46yA/s1600/GOPR0157.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-H-Ck4L3qMjw/VpQGv45-LbI/AAAAAAAAVX8/A06gOZf46yA/s1600/GOPR0157.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-e2uj3TosFng/VpQGwYv_R9I/AAAAAAAAVYE/ga_dOjcmFDc/s1600/GOPR0159.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-e2uj3TosFng/VpQGwYv_R9I/AAAAAAAAVYE/ga_dOjcmFDc/s1600/GOPR0159.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-2FkWL4Lvw4c/VpQGwiX2c3I/AAAAAAAAVYI/zyF8nhkwP_s/s1600/GOPR0162.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-2FkWL4Lvw4c/VpQGwiX2c3I/AAAAAAAAVYI/zyF8nhkwP_s/s1600/GOPR0162.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-0pckKW_piXo/VpQGw48VrNI/AAAAAAAAVYQ/K4G0ATafQnk/s1600/GOPR0163.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-0pckKW_piXo/VpQGw48VrNI/AAAAAAAAVYQ/K4G0ATafQnk/s1600/GOPR0163.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Snorkelling was lots of fun!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
I had done it once previously the year before, also in Bali, but that spot wasn't as clear & it was quite crowded with tourists doing the seafloor helmet walk. So I definitely recommend going to Nusa Lembogan instead rather than the main island!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
The currents were quite manageable & I'm honestly a shitty swimmer.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
You'll obviously be given lifevests, but I took mine off because I found it quite obstructive.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Also... doesn't look nice in pictures hahaha.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
More on Nusa Lembogan & Nusa Ceningan with my DSLR pictures below!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-CCRMtXHk-mo/VpQLYvGjeII/AAAAAAAAVc8/NqONtDIXQw8/s1600/divider.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="6" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-CCRMtXHk-mo/VpQLYvGjeII/AAAAAAAAVc8/NqONtDIXQw8/s320/divider.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
We found a pretty value-for-money private villa with our own pool!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Found ours via Booking.com if I recall correctly, but the villa name itself is D'Sawah Villas.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
The only inconvenient thing is that all these private villas are usually... IN THE MIDDLE OF NOWHERE. You don't imagine at all that you have a private pool AND the beach at your doorstep do you? Nope, those cost an arm & a leg. So most private villas are quite far inland & around your villa is probably... poverty & padi fields. Taxis are very reasonable so it's not a big issue but it's just a bit jarring & mildly guilt-tripping.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
And also it means there's no food near you as these villas don't really provide room service.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Luckily we had a small convenience store opposite our villa so we had basics like maggi mee.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-sZU-OS3kPrc/VpQGxId4fbI/AAAAAAAAVYU/8FrG5CZzXfs/s1600/IMG_8887.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-sZU-OS3kPrc/VpQGxId4fbI/AAAAAAAAVYU/8FrG5CZzXfs/s1600/IMG_8887.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ybjtiVrO6mU/VpQGxD7x6kI/AAAAAAAAVYY/59OiV8aQ0vw/s1600/IMG_8890.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ybjtiVrO6mU/VpQGxD7x6kI/AAAAAAAAVYY/59OiV8aQ0vw/s1600/IMG_8890.jpg" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Not our villa, but the door to this one was open so we took a look!</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
This one was ours!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-PvhUSK4sg0o/VpQGx8GgO5I/AAAAAAAAVYk/PvN71EYLdpo/s1600/IMG_8892.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-PvhUSK4sg0o/VpQGx8GgO5I/AAAAAAAAVYk/PvN71EYLdpo/s1600/IMG_8892.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-wvCjWIAA60Q/VpQGyKmDCfI/AAAAAAAAVYw/x9KvvUadLAo/s1600/IMG_8893.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-wvCjWIAA60Q/VpQGyKmDCfI/AAAAAAAAVYw/x9KvvUadLAo/s1600/IMG_8893.jpg" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
I think our pool set-up is much nicer! Each villa comes with 2 bedrooms & their own attached bathrooms, as well as a shared living & kitchen area. Good for groups! The other room was simply locked up during our stay & I'm pretty sure they don't allow sharing between strangers since that clearly defeats the whole "private" villa concept haha.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Went to check out Kuta beach the next day!</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-4ic8IVtppYE/VpQGyN5FNZI/AAAAAAAAVY0/P31SZrc7TPg/s1600/IMG_8894.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-4ic8IVtppYE/VpQGyN5FNZI/AAAAAAAAVY0/P31SZrc7TPg/s1600/IMG_8894.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-t-18IjE0Es4/VpQGyj9BicI/AAAAAAAAVY4/4W2_yxX9xRw/s1600/IMG_8904.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-t-18IjE0Es4/VpQGyj9BicI/AAAAAAAAVY4/4W2_yxX9xRw/s1600/IMG_8904.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-iptZDWfg2Ek/VpQGy71KEoI/AAAAAAAAVZE/TiJMOOM5Db0/s1600/IMG_8908.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-iptZDWfg2Ek/VpQGy71KEoI/AAAAAAAAVZE/TiJMOOM5Db0/s1600/IMG_8908.jpg" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Too cute haha. Lots of stray beach dogs but they're pretty well treated by tourists!</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-fguunG2xytg/VpQGzGI6DWI/AAAAAAAAVZI/UIYq4S2Fcm4/s1600/IMG_8909.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-fguunG2xytg/VpQGzGI6DWI/AAAAAAAAVZI/UIYq4S2Fcm4/s1600/IMG_8909.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-CMoK9BdmnMg/VpQGzLkJ-HI/AAAAAAAAVZM/FKiYh1WObuk/s1600/IMG_8910.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-CMoK9BdmnMg/VpQGzLkJ-HI/AAAAAAAAVZM/FKiYh1WObuk/s1600/IMG_8910.jpg" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Bali is very famous for lots of quirky cafes & good food but we didn't really bother to search & haunt down any of these food spots so yeah... I guess we missed out LOL.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-CCRMtXHk-mo/VpQLYvGjeII/AAAAAAAAVc8/NqONtDIXQw8/s1600/divider.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="6" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-CCRMtXHk-mo/VpQLYvGjeII/AAAAAAAAVc8/NqONtDIXQw8/s320/divider.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Ok so the following day we got up bright & early for <b>Nusa Lembogan</b> & <b>Nusa Ceningan</b>!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
There are hotels on these islands as well by the way, ranging from backpacker to upmarket.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Just take a look at these waters!</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-l5FqidJjJwg/VpQGzgYZYDI/AAAAAAAAVZY/oFBg6I6PLik/s1600/IMG_8911.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-l5FqidJjJwg/VpQGzgYZYDI/AAAAAAAAVZY/oFBg6I6PLik/s1600/IMG_8911.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-rzpjh26godY/VpQGz6myjTI/AAAAAAAAVZg/_3pUfct19dk/s1600/IMG_8914.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-rzpjh26godY/VpQGz6myjTI/AAAAAAAAVZg/_3pUfct19dk/s1600/IMG_8914.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-DWcFvyCFJ4s/VpQG0LgEMDI/AAAAAAAAVZk/EbivXkKiWmY/s1600/IMG_8917.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-DWcFvyCFJ4s/VpQG0LgEMDI/AAAAAAAAVZk/EbivXkKiWmY/s1600/IMG_8917.jpg" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
After snorkelling, we scooter-ed around the island to visit various other spots!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Went past this point which offers a great view of the whole island.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
The F&B joint there is quite opportunistically named Panorama Bar.</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-QvqWNdrovNk/VpQG0WEEtAI/AAAAAAAAVZw/S6P61Wepln4/s1600/IMG_8918.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-QvqWNdrovNk/VpQG0WEEtAI/AAAAAAAAVZw/S6P61Wepln4/s1600/IMG_8918.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-SQaiAZYcT-U/VpQG0rrny_I/AAAAAAAAVZ8/fQa3q4ZQRYo/s1600/IMG_8921.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-SQaiAZYcT-U/VpQG0rrny_I/AAAAAAAAVZ8/fQa3q4ZQRYo/s1600/IMG_8921.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-oRUKTcDvuec/VpQG0_8ICwI/AAAAAAAAVaA/gnfxl4-60G0/s1600/IMG_8922.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-oRUKTcDvuec/VpQG0_8ICwI/AAAAAAAAVaA/gnfxl4-60G0/s1600/IMG_8922.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-SmaK9Dk4eEw/VpQG1NcZc9I/AAAAAAAAVaI/Mqq8htDdHms/s1600/IMG_8923.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-SmaK9Dk4eEw/VpQG1NcZc9I/AAAAAAAAVaI/Mqq8htDdHms/s1600/IMG_8923.jpg" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
I forgot where this was... One of their many gorgeous beaches!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
But this beach would be more of a pick-up point for snorkelling trips & boat tours anyway.</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-d1sTJcDB40Q/VpQG1Ye54yI/AAAAAAAAVaM/PUhrSLc_59c/s1600/IMG_8924.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-d1sTJcDB40Q/VpQG1Ye54yI/AAAAAAAAVaM/PUhrSLc_59c/s1600/IMG_8924.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-jSC-ruxULDI/VpQG16IEzGI/AAAAAAAAVaU/ScADMcyhnBg/s1600/IMG_8926.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-jSC-ruxULDI/VpQG16IEzGI/AAAAAAAAVaU/ScADMcyhnBg/s1600/IMG_8926.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-6t6uLmK6D7I/VpQG1_GxwCI/AAAAAAAAVaY/u2h55Kab_S0/s1600/IMG_8927.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-6t6uLmK6D7I/VpQG1_GxwCI/AAAAAAAAVaY/u2h55Kab_S0/s1600/IMG_8927.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Went to Mahana Point as it's a famous cliff-jumping spot!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
I did it once before in Ibiza & it was pretty fun!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
However here at Mahana Point (which is super hidden & hard to find by the way)...</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;">You... have... to pay money to jump off the cliff...</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Wtf right!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
It's so stupid LOL like seriously it's literally a 100% free activity that costs the bar nothing.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
I think it's reasonable to capitalise on the spot by charging overpriced food & drinks (expected) but not to literally charge me money for jumping into the ocean hahahaha.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Anyway once you jump off the route back up looked insanely troublesome as well so we couldn't be bothered. There's 2 jumping spots here, one is mild & the other is... super intense.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
The mild one lands you in this pool!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-gVhETGBNfmY/VpQG2LerfjI/AAAAAAAAVak/vQsu7YuD4Uo/s1600/IMG_8929.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-gVhETGBNfmY/VpQG2LerfjI/AAAAAAAAVak/vQsu7YuD4Uo/s1600/IMG_8929.jpg" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Next up is another famous spot called the <b>Blue Lagoon</b>!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
It's so crazily blue that I believe they colour it with blue food dye every hour.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
No I kid haha. But it's so gorgeous!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-B-8kV-RZIzo/VpQG2hBhldI/AAAAAAAAVaw/gGv_u3QprT0/s1600/IMG_8930.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-B-8kV-RZIzo/VpQG2hBhldI/AAAAAAAAVaw/gGv_u3QprT0/s1600/IMG_8930.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-RsJLclwkb8U/VpQG2vNdYnI/AAAAAAAAVa0/bmArmSnG8RI/s1600/IMG_8931.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-RsJLclwkb8U/VpQG2vNdYnI/AAAAAAAAVa0/bmArmSnG8RI/s1600/IMG_8931.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-IIaGdJle5RU/VpQG26ptoQI/AAAAAAAAVbA/bgWABc_zNb4/s1600/IMG_8936.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-IIaGdJle5RU/VpQG26ptoQI/AAAAAAAAVbA/bgWABc_zNb4/s1600/IMG_8936.jpg" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-HkEvckbZZ78/VpQm1HZg01I/AAAAAAAAVdM/qXpQgoRxQNM/s1600/IMG_8939.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-HkEvckbZZ78/VpQm1HZg01I/AAAAAAAAVdM/qXpQgoRxQNM/s1600/IMG_8939.jpg" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-QJ5EKzH1Uc4/VpQG38mQ2rI/AAAAAAAAVbQ/OQyPWcUbC1g/s1600/IMG_8945.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-QJ5EKzH1Uc4/VpQG38mQ2rI/AAAAAAAAVbQ/OQyPWcUbC1g/s1600/IMG_8945.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-FF9HdJopNbM/VpQG4c905rI/AAAAAAAAVbg/WoiJGXgVRXo/s1600/IMG_8947.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-FF9HdJopNbM/VpQG4c905rI/AAAAAAAAVbg/WoiJGXgVRXo/s1600/IMG_8947.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-w9WgRnV3598/VpQG4mcT12I/AAAAAAAAVbo/Vq-NDrZ854c/s1600/IMG_8950.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-w9WgRnV3598/VpQG4mcT12I/AAAAAAAAVbo/Vq-NDrZ854c/s1600/IMG_8950.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-PHKenRSA7To/VpQG42xyYTI/AAAAAAAAVbw/qZ8ElqpWaj4/s1600/IMG_8953.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-PHKenRSA7To/VpQG42xyYTI/AAAAAAAAVbw/qZ8ElqpWaj4/s1600/IMG_8953.jpg" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
There is a bar on the opposite side of the Blue Lagoon but I think getting down is pretty tough so this is more of just a picture spot! No swimming here.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
After the Blue Lagoon we had to head back already to ensure that we get back on time for our ferry!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
But along the way we stopped at some budget accommodations which looked cute!</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Dvifb_UyA3U/VpQG5Ey_DeI/AAAAAAAAVb0/FMbKWjTFBaw/s1600/IMG_8954.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Dvifb_UyA3U/VpQG5Ey_DeI/AAAAAAAAVb0/FMbKWjTFBaw/s1600/IMG_8954.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-aBzdro-TF6c/VpQG5Q3C7JI/AAAAAAAAVcA/Y5RgkluA5Ws/s1600/IMG_8955.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-aBzdro-TF6c/VpQG5Q3C7JI/AAAAAAAAVcA/Y5RgkluA5Ws/s1600/IMG_8955.jpg" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
"Less clothes more rum"</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-nnUdrjL0FJE/VpQG5k_1HdI/AAAAAAAAVcI/UAHsQUcfIAU/s1600/IMG_8956.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-nnUdrjL0FJE/VpQG5k_1HdI/AAAAAAAAVcI/UAHsQUcfIAU/s1600/IMG_8956.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-MTSdiLFanr0/VpQG58Iod-I/AAAAAAAAVcQ/PVF0p0SILgQ/s1600/IMG_8957.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-MTSdiLFanr0/VpQG58Iod-I/AAAAAAAAVcQ/PVF0p0SILgQ/s1600/IMG_8957.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<center>
<blockquote class="instagram-media" data-instgrm-captioned="" data-instgrm-version="6" style="background: #FFF; border-radius: 3px; border: 0; box-shadow: 0 0 1px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.5),0 1px 10px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.15); margin: 1px; max-width: 658px; padding: 0; width: -webkit-calc(100% - 2px); width: 99.375%; width: calc(100% - 2px);">
<div style="padding: 8px;">
<div style="background: #F8F8F8; line-height: 0; margin-top: 40px; padding: 28.125% 0; text-align: center; width: 100%;">
<div style="background: url(data:image/png; display: block; height: 44px; margin: 0 auto -44px; position: relative; top: -22px; width: 44px;">
</div>
</div>
</div>
</blockquote>
</center>
<div style="margin: 8px 0 0 0; padding: 0 4px;">
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/BAWvYQdPSC9/" style="color: black; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: 17px; text-decoration: none; word-wrap: break-word;" target="_blank">☀️ Bali 2015 🐠🐟 #GoPro</a></div>
</div>
<div style="color: #c9c8cd; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 17px; margin-bottom: 0; margin-top: 8px; overflow: hidden; padding: 8px 0 7px; text-align: center; text-overflow: ellipsis; white-space: nowrap;">
A video posted by Sophie Willocq 🐱 (@sophiewillocq) on <time datetime="2016-01-10T10:33:32+00:00" style="font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 17px;">Jan 10, 2016 at 2:33am PST</time></div>
<script async="" defer="" src="//platform.instagram.com/en_US/embeds.js"></script><br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
You can check out my Instagram video above for a short snippet!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
The yellow bridge featured in it is also a touristy picture spot & is exactly what I meant when I said you can't access Nusa Ceningan by car because that bridge is the only way across!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-0WVvZVUOyJc/VpQG6GDOz3I/AAAAAAAAVcY/zsKgVJ7MwP8/s1600/IMG_8960.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-0WVvZVUOyJc/VpQG6GDOz3I/AAAAAAAAVcY/zsKgVJ7MwP8/s1600/IMG_8960.jpg" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Goodbye Bali & we hope we'll be back sometime soon!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
</div>
sophiewillocqhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14949085151032830398noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-19447173.post-40373047092008492862015-12-10T13:32:00.001+08:002015-12-16T22:55:45.012+08:00IKOU<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
IKOU kindly sent me 2 pairs of shoes, just in time for the festive season!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
I picked out a pair of classic black heels (easy to match) & glitter gold ballerina pumps.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
IKOU shoes are made from genuine leather that cover both the inside & outside (rather than just inside, like most shoes are). The leather used is also non-pig leather so it is suitable for Muslims (never knew this was a factor haha). The insoles of both shoes were very thick (they consist of 5-6 layers of latex cushion) & surprisingly comfortable! I could keep a light bounce in both shoes & even the heels felt soft on my feet, which is rarely the case for me & heels.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
All designs are specially catered for the shape of Asian feet & are <b>handmade</b> in Taiwan!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
IKOU is currently having its Christmas sales, with a storewide 20% discount!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
There is also an additional $5 voucher for signing up to their mailing list!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.ikoustyle.com/">www.ikoustyle.com</a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
They are also launching soon on ZALORA & will be participating in ZALORA's massive sale event, held on 12th December! IKOU products will be available on the site from 12th onwards. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.zalora.sg/ikou">www.zalora.sg/ikou</a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-KAHLZOU2nXw/VmkBKTnJ_cI/AAAAAAAAVVk/zsju2jsuOhI/s1600/IMG_0896.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-KAHLZOU2nXw/VmkBKTnJ_cI/AAAAAAAAVVk/zsju2jsuOhI/s1600/IMG_0896.jpg" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
The black heels I picked!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
A simple cross-strap design for the parties :D</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-uRNFFTVogmw/VmkBFUC6igI/AAAAAAAAVVM/LCp2rQxKATo/s1600/IMG_0726.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-uRNFFTVogmw/VmkBFUC6igI/AAAAAAAAVVM/LCp2rQxKATo/s1600/IMG_0726.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-aggK3sIrKTQ/VmkBFR9kZZI/AAAAAAAAVUU/uuJuVjffRjo/s1600/IMG_0730.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-aggK3sIrKTQ/VmkBFR9kZZI/AAAAAAAAVUU/uuJuVjffRjo/s1600/IMG_0730.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-QBXsYGRYgA4/VmkBFKG-qeI/AAAAAAAAVUQ/eRjLGIkbj58/s1600/IMG_0734.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-QBXsYGRYgA4/VmkBFKG-qeI/AAAAAAAAVUQ/eRjLGIkbj58/s1600/IMG_0734.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-1H5W_ZXm7OU/VmkBGgrnAMI/AAAAAAAAVUg/e8XUev9xRaY/s1600/IMG_0765.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-1H5W_ZXm7OU/VmkBGgrnAMI/AAAAAAAAVUg/e8XUev9xRaY/s1600/IMG_0765.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-xtyBzwSMYV4/VmkBGPb2BFI/AAAAAAAAVVs/K7SsXFEy79o/s1600/IMG_0750.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-xtyBzwSMYV4/VmkBGPb2BFI/AAAAAAAAVVs/K7SsXFEy79o/s1600/IMG_0750.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-cOC0_f9V2uc/VmkBGZEKSxI/AAAAAAAAVUc/rW67iZ3jZCA/s1600/IMG_0759.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-cOC0_f9V2uc/VmkBGZEKSxI/AAAAAAAAVUc/rW67iZ3jZCA/s1600/IMG_0759.jpg" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Normally heels start to hurt my feet not long after wearing them but these were really surprisingly comfortable! Felt like I could go all day in them :O</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
And here is the gold pair of glitter pumps!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Also perfect for the festive season because it is so sparkly!</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-drmao_SH9-A/VmkBJG7oTSI/AAAAAAAAVVc/YVn8acCmXsE/s1600/IMG_0890.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-drmao_SH9-A/VmkBJG7oTSI/AAAAAAAAVVc/YVn8acCmXsE/s1600/IMG_0890.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-psvz46FUJV0/VmkBIPr94JI/AAAAAAAAVVI/PGX3JY-m9sw/s1600/IMG_0802.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-psvz46FUJV0/VmkBIPr94JI/AAAAAAAAVVI/PGX3JY-m9sw/s1600/IMG_0802.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-FBeevv-UCbc/VmkBHMKAcGI/AAAAAAAAVUs/l6H6QByOxho/s1600/IMG_0793.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-FBeevv-UCbc/VmkBHMKAcGI/AAAAAAAAVUs/l6H6QByOxho/s1600/IMG_0793.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Yl5gkkW87jc/VmkBHNX6ZRI/AAAAAAAAVU8/GhzoZtZ0QWQ/s1600/IMG_0797.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Yl5gkkW87jc/VmkBHNX6ZRI/AAAAAAAAVU8/GhzoZtZ0QWQ/s1600/IMG_0797.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-wLITQBqQAkI/VmkBHb2f5EI/AAAAAAAAVU4/86JCOpAKTPI/s1600/IMG_0800.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-wLITQBqQAkI/VmkBHb2f5EI/AAAAAAAAVU4/86JCOpAKTPI/s1600/IMG_0800.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-SCLNIPzSaV4/VmkBIsugyEI/AAAAAAAAVVA/vlkoPuDKwsI/s1600/IMG_0809.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-SCLNIPzSaV4/VmkBIsugyEI/AAAAAAAAVVA/vlkoPuDKwsI/s1600/IMG_0809.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-4Wj6WUtE0xk/VmkBI7vsfDI/AAAAAAAAVVg/WdKHpsv5ndQ/s1600/IMG_0845.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-4Wj6WUtE0xk/VmkBI7vsfDI/AAAAAAAAVVg/WdKHpsv5ndQ/s1600/IMG_0845.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-qbZQfFj7fRs/VmkBJHjyQdI/AAAAAAAAVVo/DbjCRoNj5cw/s1600/IMG_0848.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-qbZQfFj7fRs/VmkBJHjyQdI/AAAAAAAAVVo/DbjCRoNj5cw/s1600/IMG_0848.jpg" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
IKOU's shoes are honestly not the cheapest around, but the quality is much better than your run-of-the-mill cheap shoes. So if you're looking to invest in longer-lasting shoes, consider IKOU!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Find them on these platforms!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.ikoustyle.com/">www.ikoustyle.com</a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.facebook.com/ikoustyle">www.facebook.com/ikoustyle</a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.instagram.com/ikoustyle">www.instagram.com/ikoustyle</a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
And from 12th December onwards:</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.zalora.sg/ikou">www.zalora.sg/ikou</a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Thank you for the shoes Ikou!</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
</div>
sophiewillocqhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14949085151032830398noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-19447173.post-46670649088187252732015-11-10T06:32:00.000+08:002015-11-10T06:32:00.200+08:00Hong Kong : Food Hunt<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
So I spent a very short 2 days in Hong Kong sometime ago & it's actually been a whopping... 6 years since I last went to Hong Kong for a holiday! That was back in 2009 with 2 friends from SAJC & in fact... those blogposts are still on my blog. That's how old this blog is hahaha.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Anyway the main purpose of this trip was to go to Hong Kong Disneyland!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
So I bought the tickets online, prepared my theme-park-going outfit (cute to suit the Disneyland theme but still practical for being outdoors all day, hey it's not as easy as guys think ok)...</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
THEN IT POURED ALL DAY.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
And it wasn't even a drizzle. It was a proper downpour & the weather forecast predicted it would last till evening! Theme park-ing in that weather would SUCK. So we cancelled our plans T_T</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Luckily the Hong Kong Disneyland tickets are valid for a couple of months, so we'll have to plan another short trip back to the city! What a bummer...</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Anyhow we did get to try a few yummy food places thanks to Yina's pretty comprehensive blogpost on Hong Kong! You can check it out <a href="http://www.yinagoh.com/2015/08/hongkong-best-food-guide.html">HERE</a>; I referred to it for a few of the places she went to!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-e27EqMAHzfU/VjvWdaNoqBI/AAAAAAAAVQ0/ol2HORcuvzw/s1600/IMG_9061.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-e27EqMAHzfU/VjvWdaNoqBI/AAAAAAAAVQ0/ol2HORcuvzw/s1600/IMG_9061.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-nbRq0hmRTts/VjvWdEwykoI/AAAAAAAAVQw/E9HuuVUTwOY/s1600/IMG_9062.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-nbRq0hmRTts/VjvWdEwykoI/AAAAAAAAVQw/E9HuuVUTwOY/s1600/IMG_9062.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-bEVdZ4hJHnQ/VjvWdN4oVYI/AAAAAAAAVQs/WB543fqv7zM/s1600/IMG_9065.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-bEVdZ4hJHnQ/VjvWdN4oVYI/AAAAAAAAVQs/WB543fqv7zM/s1600/IMG_9065.jpg" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<b>Tsui Wah</b></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
If I had to pick one ultimate favourite Hong Kong food, it would be this.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Macaroni soup with luncheon meat & egg. So incredibly simple but so, so good!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Macaroni - awesome.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Luncheon meat - awesome.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Sunny side-up eggs - awesome.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
It's a winning formula!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Anyway if you can't recognise the porcelain cup in the background, this was taken at <b>Tsui Wah</b>.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<b>Tsui Wah</b> has a chain of Cha Chaan Teng cafes & so it may be what you call commercialised, if you're into those hole-in-the-wall type of things. However many <b>Tsui Wahs</b> open late or even 24 hours, with an extensive food menu that's still pretty good (to me), so I'll definitely keep going back!</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-XGHJLoNvimA/VjvWeBZXEII/AAAAAAAAVQ8/StrdT-SQlVU/s1600/IMG_9066.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-XGHJLoNvimA/VjvWeBZXEII/AAAAAAAAVQ8/StrdT-SQlVU/s1600/IMG_9066.jpg" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<b>Bai Wei Cold Noodles</b></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Argyle Centre</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<i>Mongkok</i></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
So I tried these cold noodles back in 2009 & since then I've never forgotten them.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
It's a small stall & you just pick which sauce + toppings you like!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
And don't forget to check out <b>Argyle Centre</b> itself! It's kinda like a smaller version of Bangkok's Platinum Mall & I bought a few things here. <b>Argyle Centre</b> is much better for shopping than many of the other street markets, which have become so touristy that they sell really boring & ugly souvenirs. In fact many of the items at the street markets can be found at Singapore's own tourist trap - Chinatown.</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-shcTdijofkM/VjvWeasMBNI/AAAAAAAAVRA/UhEIgMjYpvM/s1600/IMG_9068.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-shcTdijofkM/VjvWeasMBNI/AAAAAAAAVRA/UhEIgMjYpvM/s1600/IMG_9068.jpg" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<b>Hui Lau Shan</b></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Another food chain, but it serves a wide variety of mango desserts!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
All the different options are pretty creative & as again with chains, open till pretty late!</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-rN6yhi_kWvg/VjvWekJ0cxI/AAAAAAAAVRE/G4s-0Cs1bJQ/s1600/IMG_9071.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-rN6yhi_kWvg/VjvWekJ0cxI/AAAAAAAAVRE/G4s-0Cs1bJQ/s1600/IMG_9071.jpg" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Tried a random street shop's curry fishballs, but they are so different from Singapore's!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Singapore's fishballs are more springy while Hong Kong's are so starchy. Not a fan :/</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-rcnWLxLeYIM/VjvWffK336I/AAAAAAAAVRQ/EZ9bjGE8G_g/s1600/IMG_9075.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-rcnWLxLeYIM/VjvWffK336I/AAAAAAAAVRQ/EZ9bjGE8G_g/s1600/IMG_9075.jpg" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<b>Capitol Cafe</b></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<i>Wan Chai</i></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
So <b>Capitol Cafe</b> is one those FAMOUS breakfast cafes! </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
The other would be Australian Dairy Co, but I didn't visit it on this trip.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Their macaroni soup was really good, but they're apparently famous for the Black Truffle Scrambled Eggs! Well I'm not a huge scrambled eggs (prefer omelettes) nor truffle fan, but this definitely was very fragrant, even to me. Texture of the eggs were really good too.</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-hYLb-lPeNBc/VjvWf_aq_eI/AAAAAAAAVRY/qUbAm2f1t2w/s1600/IMG_9077.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-hYLb-lPeNBc/VjvWf_aq_eI/AAAAAAAAVRY/qUbAm2f1t2w/s1600/IMG_9077.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-jnFnjsBHCq4/VjvWfus-_DI/AAAAAAAAVRU/OJcWI1kx4rY/s1600/IMG_9080.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-jnFnjsBHCq4/VjvWfus-_DI/AAAAAAAAVRU/OJcWI1kx4rY/s1600/IMG_9080.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-NgNe2blM-8I/VjvWgWbKJkI/AAAAAAAAVRg/uW2GORpIszM/s1600/IMG_9093.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-NgNe2blM-8I/VjvWgWbKJkI/AAAAAAAAVRg/uW2GORpIszM/s1600/IMG_9093.jpg" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<b>Oddies Foodies</b></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<i>Wan Chai</i></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<i><br /></i></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
The ubiquitous egglets (I guess this is like an Asian version of waffles?) now with ice-cream & chocolate syrup! There's a few variations (pineapple, sesame... etc) but we stuck to the simplest with chocolate syrup, called <b>Night Wolf</b>. It was not bad, but I didn't find it particularly worth making a trip out to find. Maybe the other flavours would be more unique? Mine in the end was just... a waffle with ice-cream & chocolate. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
It's however located pretty near to <b>Capitol Cafe</b>, so it makes sense to try both if you're in the area!</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-xmY_38ybVFs/VjvWg7NUJlI/AAAAAAAAVR0/5pr6Ijaf8FM/s1600/IMG_9095.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-xmY_38ybVFs/VjvWg7NUJlI/AAAAAAAAVR0/5pr6Ijaf8FM/s1600/IMG_9095.jpg" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
The usual MTR tiled walls!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Reminder to self not to take pictures with grid lines in the background.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Even Meitu Xiu Xiu cannot edit this much haha.</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-kH_8hGqLL9Q/VjvWgzOCrmI/AAAAAAAAVRw/jLTgSOL6LD0/s1600/IMG_9097.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-kH_8hGqLL9Q/VjvWgzOCrmI/AAAAAAAAVRw/jLTgSOL6LD0/s1600/IMG_9097.jpg" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Caught taking pictures.</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-F6_FVIQ0U-c/VjvWhSBFTlI/AAAAAAAAVR4/DNvBEPnZdtA/s1600/IMG_9104.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-F6_FVIQ0U-c/VjvWhSBFTlI/AAAAAAAAVR4/DNvBEPnZdtA/s1600/IMG_9104.jpg" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<b>Kau Kee Beef Brisket Noodles</b></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<i>Central</i></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<i><br /></i></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Wow this was SO GOOD.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
And if you know me I'm rarely enthusiastic about things! :O :O :O</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
I had the curry beef brisket for supper & it was really super yummy!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Really glad we got to try this!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Okay so final conclusion is: <b>Capitol Cafe</b> & <b>Kau Kee Beef Brisket Noodles</b></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
These are the 2 places you must try!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
I didn't bother with actual street addresses because I bought data & simply Google Maps the restaurant/shop names (don't even need the street name) & follow the route!</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
</div>
sophiewillocqhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14949085151032830398noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-19447173.post-35541021700736965862015-11-04T06:39:00.002+08:002015-11-04T06:39:30.593+08:00A day in Amsterdam<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Booked with Viator for the Zaanse Schans, Marken & Volendam day tour!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Zaanse Schans is a cluster of windmills now preserved as a tourist attraction, while Marken & Volendam are coastal cities famous for clogs & cheese respectively!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-CDg_B4jtz80/Vjks3qNL9JI/AAAAAAAAVNQ/7DGf58Aiwko/s1600/IMG_8781.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-CDg_B4jtz80/Vjks3qNL9JI/AAAAAAAAVNQ/7DGf58Aiwko/s1600/IMG_8781.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-mdqZPvQ_rz8/Vjks3nDd8jI/AAAAAAAAVNI/746O0AwYxUI/s1600/IMG_8785.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-mdqZPvQ_rz8/Vjks3nDd8jI/AAAAAAAAVNI/746O0AwYxUI/s1600/IMG_8785.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-s6j87OW9pno/Vjks4eWROwI/AAAAAAAAVNY/mGe2Y8fO3Us/s1600/IMG_8797.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-s6j87OW9pno/Vjks4eWROwI/AAAAAAAAVNY/mGe2Y8fO3Us/s1600/IMG_8797.jpg" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
There are a few shops among the windmills, which sell a range of products going from souvenirs (naturally) to soft serve ice-cream & chocolate!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
The whole place is pretty touristy & there's quite a continuous flow of people, but thankfully it's not YET crowded-crowded the way some other famous places are. And it was a great summer day!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
The entire vibe at Zaanse Schans is really nice actually, very laid-back & relaxed.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
All you really do is just stroll among the windmills (frankly one looks pretty much like another) but it was pretty nice. Just to note that actually entering & going up the windmills is chargeable.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
If I remember correctly I think it was 4 Euros per person? Or 6?</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-lx50j-P51js/Vjks4tZc9tI/AAAAAAAAVNc/wR7uEGKdEDc/s1600/IMG_8802.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-lx50j-P51js/Vjks4tZc9tI/AAAAAAAAVNc/wR7uEGKdEDc/s1600/IMG_8802.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-XNCjk8DGvRg/Vjks4g4TnYI/AAAAAAAAVNg/o2lwCFRXFn4/s1600/IMG_8803.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-XNCjk8DGvRg/Vjks4g4TnYI/AAAAAAAAVNg/o2lwCFRXFn4/s1600/IMG_8803.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-_4cXAV3fYns/Vjks5McvAkI/AAAAAAAAVNo/IHJkeJzyMZE/s1600/IMG_8808.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-_4cXAV3fYns/Vjks5McvAkI/AAAAAAAAVNo/IHJkeJzyMZE/s1600/IMG_8808.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-23fAv1iCsgM/Vjks5lnNAiI/AAAAAAAAVN4/jIInqysyYP8/s1600/IMG_8810.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-23fAv1iCsgM/Vjks5lnNAiI/AAAAAAAAVN4/jIInqysyYP8/s1600/IMG_8810.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-kUr5Rlk3asw/Vjks5oNCQKI/AAAAAAAAVN0/t_3uAxtpKps/s1600/IMG_8815.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-kUr5Rlk3asw/Vjks5oNCQKI/AAAAAAAAVN0/t_3uAxtpKps/s1600/IMG_8815.jpg" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
I feel like I really need to come up with my own "trademark" pose to replicate all over the world.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
If you didn't know, this... pose, where the girl "leads" her partner to various scenic locations worldwide, is called the Follow Me To photo series & it went viral. And since then couples everywhere have been doing it haha. So I'm being totally unoriginal.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
However we've already taken quite a few of these & I have no other ideas so... #unoriginal</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-_jFT8PW3hw4/Vjks5x4gZ-I/AAAAAAAAVN8/e_Akw9H7wRY/s1600/IMG_8827.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-_jFT8PW3hw4/Vjks5x4gZ-I/AAAAAAAAVN8/e_Akw9H7wRY/s1600/IMG_8827.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Saw a little family of ducks! </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Baby ducks are so cute & fuzzy when they don't have proper feathers.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Looks like fur!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-bMiicVYYBgg/Vjks6ZoJwJI/AAAAAAAAVOI/3SPU41ZxJJ8/s1600/IMG_8832.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-bMiicVYYBgg/Vjks6ZoJwJI/AAAAAAAAVOI/3SPU41ZxJJ8/s1600/IMG_8832.jpg" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
All chilling in the shade.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Luckily I have me hat!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-xiiqVGn04xA/Vjks3tnqsdI/AAAAAAAAVNw/1txasphD9No/s1600/IMG_8788.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-xiiqVGn04xA/Vjks3tnqsdI/AAAAAAAAVNw/1txasphD9No/s1600/IMG_8788.jpg" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Next it was on to Marken & Volendam!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ZphjsCaLv0Q/Vjks6sddv0I/AAAAAAAAVOM/FopaRRdZYt4/s1600/IMG_8842.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ZphjsCaLv0Q/Vjks6sddv0I/AAAAAAAAVOM/FopaRRdZYt4/s1600/IMG_8842.jpg" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
This scene of 2 BFFs (or I like to think so) spending their days sitting on a little makeshift pier looks like it could come right out of a movie, likely a period film that will star Keira Knightley (although I do dislike her) & go on to win Oscars. It's strange how different our lives can be.</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-GPF5EG3M8D8/Vjks6_bHQ-I/AAAAAAAAVOQ/EfW_izJhi_M/s1600/IMG_8844.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-GPF5EG3M8D8/Vjks6_bHQ-I/AAAAAAAAVOQ/EfW_izJhi_M/s1600/IMG_8844.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-n1DKJFPvS-k/Vjks7IlN39I/AAAAAAAAVOc/3qyLgXUjR7I/s1600/IMG_8845.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-n1DKJFPvS-k/Vjks7IlN39I/AAAAAAAAVOc/3qyLgXUjR7I/s1600/IMG_8845.jpg" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Got to sample lots of yummy cheese!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
The French blood coursing through my veins means that I do quite like cheese, but I knew my mom & I would never finish one this size within the expiration date. But not that that usually bothers us...</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-T9eNVspQBsI/Vjks7bZBmSI/AAAAAAAAVOk/IHJmXzvp438/s1600/IMG_8847.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-T9eNVspQBsI/Vjks7bZBmSI/AAAAAAAAVOk/IHJmXzvp438/s1600/IMG_8847.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-pVfqIhCuZe4/Vjks7eCDucI/AAAAAAAAVOg/6wUTpa1yr6g/s1600/IMG_8849.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-pVfqIhCuZe4/Vjks7eCDucI/AAAAAAAAVOg/6wUTpa1yr6g/s1600/IMG_8849.jpg" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Wow fish sandwiches. Possibly one of my worst food nightmares.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
I mean ok hand me a Filet-O-Fish anytime, but these weird half-cooked fish stuffed in hot dog buns...</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-WNjJA3JiW-Q/Vjks7zQNWnI/AAAAAAAAVOs/wiYSCXW1MwM/s1600/IMG_8851.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-WNjJA3JiW-Q/Vjks7zQNWnI/AAAAAAAAVOs/wiYSCXW1MwM/s1600/IMG_8851.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-9UrahM30F2k/Vjks8cVN6kI/AAAAAAAAVO4/qvl0o0ERmpo/s1600/IMG_8854.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-9UrahM30F2k/Vjks8cVN6kI/AAAAAAAAVO4/qvl0o0ERmpo/s1600/IMG_8854.jpg" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
I love, love this! How quaint is being able to moor a little rowboat at the end of your backyard & row over to a neighbour's place for barbecue?! Well at Sentosa Cove they DO drive little buggies to each others' multi-million dollar homes (as I was saying, oh how differently we all live...) but this is too cute.</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-B3DahLy_JQY/Vjks8rZRimI/AAAAAAAAVO8/TH5bbmL1sR0/s1600/IMG_8856.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-B3DahLy_JQY/Vjks8rZRimI/AAAAAAAAVO8/TH5bbmL1sR0/s1600/IMG_8856.jpg" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
I may have a mild obsession with photographing cats.</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-pjo3Y_cobqo/Vjks855_kOI/AAAAAAAAVPA/sk7d8F4EelY/s1600/IMG_8859.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-pjo3Y_cobqo/Vjks855_kOI/AAAAAAAAVPA/sk7d8F4EelY/s1600/IMG_8859.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-B9qujSVUevg/Vjks9MujJJI/AAAAAAAAVPM/FLYc8Ldr4Ik/s1600/IMG_8860.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-B9qujSVUevg/Vjks9MujJJI/AAAAAAAAVPM/FLYc8Ldr4Ik/s1600/IMG_8860.jpg" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
All these little bridges! And that cat relaxing in the grass! And the little duck!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
And all the flowers! How are all the residents so good at maintaining flowers?!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Even my cacti die! I have no green thumb whatsoever wtf.</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-feu5YyZE_Pg/Vjks9epWX3I/AAAAAAAAVPQ/PVQMeYBEKKE/s1600/IMG_8861.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-feu5YyZE_Pg/Vjks9epWX3I/AAAAAAAAVPQ/PVQMeYBEKKE/s1600/IMG_8861.jpg" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Chilling in your backyard on a sunny afternoon licking ice-cream & watching the spectacle of tourists trudging by stopping to take pictures of everything.</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-glBB7F7AdQk/Vjks9kIWS9I/AAAAAAAAVPU/jkuCakJdG2M/s1600/IMG_8866.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-glBB7F7AdQk/Vjks9kIWS9I/AAAAAAAAVPU/jkuCakJdG2M/s1600/IMG_8866.jpg" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Case in point.</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-jOt3B0Xzx_s/Vjks98fe6BI/AAAAAAAAVPc/8V-nnwb_ofc/s1600/IMG_8869.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-jOt3B0Xzx_s/Vjks98fe6BI/AAAAAAAAVPc/8V-nnwb_ofc/s1600/IMG_8869.jpg" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
ActOne nature photographer.</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ZjCuCcmGpNI/Vjks-KSsEmI/AAAAAAAAVPk/6FFRr98cxAw/s1600/IMG_8870.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ZjCuCcmGpNI/Vjks-KSsEmI/AAAAAAAAVPk/6FFRr98cxAw/s1600/IMG_8870.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-OlUVS56QLJo/Vjks-YV9ZmI/AAAAAAAAVPo/ZgTMkSXMxHI/s1600/IMG_8873.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-OlUVS56QLJo/Vjks-YV9ZmI/AAAAAAAAVPo/ZgTMkSXMxHI/s1600/IMG_8873.jpg" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
I have to say... I don't quite see the appeal of clogs.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
I don't even mean aesthetically, but rather functionally.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Many traditional items were pretty ingenious back in their day, but clogs...?</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Aren't they ridiculously chunky & heavy? Do they protect you from the cold?</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Is it so that fathers can be woken up when their daughters try to sneak out for a secret rendezvous?</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-eeaaknOqfEw/Vjks-u5nNiI/AAAAAAAAVPs/JNlpLMuGPho/s1600/IMG_8874.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-eeaaknOqfEw/Vjks-u5nNiI/AAAAAAAAVPs/JNlpLMuGPho/s1600/IMG_8874.jpg" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Well I guess there's always dressing up cow figurines...</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Didn't take any pictures in central Amsterdam which was quite a shame really!</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
While I was there I happened to see a gay parade & it was so awesome! Everyone (regardless of sexual orientation) was revelling & everything was so colourful & it was just a fantastic all-day party.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
And it's always so fun to see people going past in their private boats on the canals right through the busy city; the dad smoking a joint at the wheel while the mom sips champagne & a little girl plays with her dolls at the bow. Just all-round a really laid-back city to visit.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
</div>
sophiewillocqhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14949085151032830398noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-19447173.post-70024767555030515422015-10-27T06:27:00.000+08:002015-10-29T01:21:46.979+08:00It's been a long time...<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<div style="text-align: center;">
... without you my friend</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
*cues music for Fast & Furious 7 song*</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
No but seriously, I was looking at my number of blogposts & was greatly saddened by how much they've dwindled. And I clicked on a few posts & felt so bittersweet reading comments left by people. I guess in a way this blog & all the people that gave me the time of the day to come see it & sometimes leave a note, are both strangers & friends to me.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Now it feels so surreal, surreal how my life was such an open book.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
I posted such mundane, mundane things like where I ate & what I did & what I wore & whatever else. You can probably call it vapid, really. But at the same time it's quite heartening how it was so... </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i style="font-weight: bold;"><br /></i></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i style="font-weight: bold;">... simple</i></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i style="font-weight: bold;"><br /></i></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Those were the days before content was so carefully curated. I did of course, still watch what I said back then because well, I'm not completely retarded, but when I shared things I didn't think so much about whether it was sufficiently aesthetically pleasing. It was... just sharing things. It didn't matter if my pictures were a little grainy or too underexposed. Pictures of food were just that, no careful arrangements & deliberated placed branded sunglasses, jewelry or wallets.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Then over time that became the norm.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
People stopped caring less about what you said & more about what was nice to look at.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
I too, started taking better pictures. I mean, that's a good thing.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
I was finally putting my DSLR to some kind of use, beyond just the Auto mode.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
But wow, churning out posts the way I used to became impossible.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
And I've become a lot more guarded as an "online influencer".</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
The same way my peers have I suppose. I know close to nothing about most new bloggers these days. I have no idea how old they are, whether they work or study, if they have any siblings, pets...</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
So...</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>Hello! Here's a little news update about myself:</b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
I'm currently seeing someone. Have been, for almost a year.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
His name is Shaun & he is 5 years older than I am.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
He's not adverse to online attention or anything like that, but I find it difficult to explain why I've become so private. </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
I guess I feel a need to keep my public life as pristine as possible, as <i>curated</i> as every other Instagram feed out there. </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
But that's not my life, it isn't pristine.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
I didn't even realise, but I stopped taking pictures.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
I know right? A blogger, who stopped taking pictures.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Shaun has brought it up a few times; that I never want to take pictures together. We've gone to so many places & done so many things together, but we can come back completely empty-handed, with nothing but memories. And it saddens him that after all this time, he has very little to look back on.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
And I couldn't really justify it. All I can say is, I just somehow lost the habit. Without even realising it, I simply stopped. I used to carry a camera out with me every single day & I took pictures of anything & everything. Now, I lug out my heavy DSLR the whole day, just to capture 1 outfit picture for my Instagram. I've become someone who takes pictures only intended for posting online.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
I used to capture everything & upload everything. Anything that wasn't uploaded was deleted. I have never kept pictures purely for the sake of just... keeping them. My form of reminiscing was Googling my own name & whatever occasion I intended to look for.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Now that I no longer blog (much), I still keep nothing. Because I have nothing to begin with.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
I can't grapple with the idea of taking pictures just for them to rot in my computer.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
I just somehow can't imagine taking pictures & having nothing to.. <b>do with them</b>.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
So I stopped altogether.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
But maybe I should slowly try to struggle to get that habit back?</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-hdoLz5154oM/Vi6jzgkGx8I/AAAAAAAAVMg/QeJ_hMC1RCM/s1600/IMG_9189.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-hdoLz5154oM/Vi6jzgkGx8I/AAAAAAAAVMg/QeJ_hMC1RCM/s1600/IMG_9189.JPG" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
So hey, here's a hugeass picture of us in Paris, at a fairly new attraction termed the "I Love You" wall where it's written in a multitude of different languages. It's located somewhere in the Montmartre area. Taken with my iPhone 6.</div>
</div>
sophiewillocqhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14949085151032830398noreply@blogger.com14tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-19447173.post-13394283561507876542015-10-12T03:30:00.001+08:002015-10-12T12:22:03.479+08:00Luxola<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Benefit Cosmetics is now available on <a href="http://www.luxola.com/sg/brands/luxury/benefit-cosmetics?utm_source=influencer_marketing&utm_medium=referrals&utm_campaign=other_sophieforbenefit">Luxola.com.sg</a>!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
I'm sure most of you have by now heard of Benefit Cosmetics, which is a really popular makeup brand from California! They're usually very recognisable due to the cute packaging!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
If however like me, you are usually pretty lazy to dress up, battle traffic & head out to town to replenish your makeup items, you can now get them delivered straight to your home through <a href="http://www.luxola.com/sg/brands/luxury/benefit-cosmetics?utm_source=influencer_marketing&utm_medium=referrals&utm_campaign=other_sophieforbenefit">Luxola</a>!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.luxola.com/sg/brands/luxury/benefit-cosmetics?utm_source=influencer_marketing&utm_medium=referrals&utm_campaign=other_sophieforbenefit">Luxola</a> is an online retailer of beauty products that has been around for quite a while now & now they finally stock Benefit Cosmetics (as well as a range of other brands)!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.luxola.com/sg/brands/luxury/benefit-cosmetics?utm_source=influencer_marketing&utm_medium=referrals&utm_campaign=other_sophieforbenefit">Luxola</a> kindly sponsored me a few Benefit Cosmetics products to try out, which I happily selected & received all within the comfort of my home! Below are the 4 items I chose:</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-P22wvrY5UaY/VhqnNzdLH0I/AAAAAAAAVJw/FpkuqVV67pw/s1600/IMG_9432.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-P22wvrY5UaY/VhqnNzdLH0I/AAAAAAAAVJw/FpkuqVV67pw/s1600/IMG_9432.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
L-R:</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<b>Fakeup Undereye Concealer</b></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<b>Posiebalm</b> (tinted lipbalm)</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<b>They're Real! Lenghtening Mascara</b></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<b>Big Beautiful Eyes</b></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
I basically selected items which I thought could do a simple makeup look for a casual day out!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-NDuhGup7P2M/Vhq0QHEComI/AAAAAAAAVLI/QEDIuDVjNjM/s1600/divider.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="6" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-NDuhGup7P2M/Vhq0QHEComI/AAAAAAAAVLI/QEDIuDVjNjM/s320/divider.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-XxnXUfXwSok/VhqnNlLH3eI/AAAAAAAAVJs/y7wD8CFr8wE/s1600/IMG_9436.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-XxnXUfXwSok/VhqnNlLH3eI/AAAAAAAAVJs/y7wD8CFr8wE/s1600/IMG_9436.jpg" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Undereye concealer - one of the most crucial items for me due to my dark eye rings :(</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
What I love about this <b>Fakeup Undereye Concealer</b> is the mixture of moisturiser & coverage! </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
If you didn't notice, the concealer stick features an inner tinted beige section surrounded by the outer moisturiser, so you get a good mix of both when you apply it. This concealer also contains Vitamin E as well as apple seed extracts to keep your skin hydrated!</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-e9mxbG-ivwM/VhqnNm5zIKI/AAAAAAAAVJ0/TJmWs2HJTYU/s1600/IMG_9443.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-e9mxbG-ivwM/VhqnNm5zIKI/AAAAAAAAVJ0/TJmWs2HJTYU/s1600/IMG_9443.jpg" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
The concealer glides on easily & feels very moisturising without being overly oily!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-NDuhGup7P2M/Vhq0QHEComI/AAAAAAAAVLI/QEDIuDVjNjM/s1600/divider.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="6" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-NDuhGup7P2M/Vhq0QHEComI/AAAAAAAAVLI/QEDIuDVjNjM/s320/divider.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Rg8YoMFFzD8/VhqnOWnpE7I/AAAAAAAAVJ4/EVMJR0rzV5w/s1600/IMG_9447.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Rg8YoMFFzD8/VhqnOWnpE7I/AAAAAAAAVJ4/EVMJR0rzV5w/s1600/IMG_9447.jpg" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<b>Posiebalm</b> is a non-sticky tinted lip balm that contains mango butter to combat dryness!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
My lips are perpetually dry & peeling no matter what I do, so lip balm is essential for me.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
However it's often tough to layer lipstick over lip balm as the colour tends to "run" or "leak" into the tiny lines around your mouth & it just ends up looking smudged or badly applied with no clean lines.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
I picked a very sweet, pink shade that's easily wearable on its own!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
However I also discovered later that this lip balm <b>layers very well</b> with lipstick!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
I dabbed my normal lipstick over this lip balm (instead of a full swiping application as the lip balm already has some colour) & found that they mixed very well. The colour didn't run at all & was pretty lasting! </div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-G52zOmVE1UQ/VhqnQ3K8x5I/AAAAAAAAVKM/_ge-lKQCod4/s1600/IMG_9449.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-G52zOmVE1UQ/VhqnQ3K8x5I/AAAAAAAAVKM/_ge-lKQCod4/s1600/IMG_9449.jpg" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
As you can see, the <b>Posiebalm</b> is a good option for fuss-free makeup days!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Perfect for work or school, where you want some colour without overdoing it.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-NDuhGup7P2M/Vhq0QHEComI/AAAAAAAAVLM/mNkXzlxVIlc/s1600/divider.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="6" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-NDuhGup7P2M/Vhq0QHEComI/AAAAAAAAVLM/mNkXzlxVIlc/s320/divider.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-RsMTT93NCSM/VhqnRi7P_BI/AAAAAAAAVKQ/L_ikKKMA7ks/s1600/IMG_9460.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-RsMTT93NCSM/VhqnRi7P_BI/AAAAAAAAVKQ/L_ikKKMA7ks/s1600/IMG_9460.jpg" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
The <b>Big Beautiful Eyes</b> set is a great palette to carry around as it contains concealer + eyeshadows!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
The dark brown eyeshadow is able to double up & line your eyes, without the harsh effect of actual liquid/gel eyeliners. And I simply love metallic copper/brown shades! Very wearable!</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-K0x4e1S_x7Y/VhqnRgE9MuI/AAAAAAAAVKU/G_j_CAkNuPU/s1600/IMG_9462.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-K0x4e1S_x7Y/VhqnRgE9MuI/AAAAAAAAVKU/G_j_CAkNuPU/s1600/IMG_9462.jpg" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
My favourite is definitely the copper-tone metallic eyeshadow!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Just to note, the brown eyeshadow is a little more powdery (good for blending) & less creamy compared to the other two, so there tends to be some flaking during application. I would recommend holding a piece of tissue under your eye to prevent it from getting on your face!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-NDuhGup7P2M/Vhq0QHEComI/AAAAAAAAVLM/mNkXzlxVIlc/s1600/divider.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="6" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-NDuhGup7P2M/Vhq0QHEComI/AAAAAAAAVLM/mNkXzlxVIlc/s320/divider.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/--6vGqRxmeQ0/VhqnR9sAixI/AAAAAAAAVKY/rKiSItnkzmo/s1600/IMG_9465.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/--6vGqRxmeQ0/VhqnR9sAixI/AAAAAAAAVKY/rKiSItnkzmo/s1600/IMG_9465.jpg" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
And last but not least, the <b>They're Real! Lengthening Mascara</b>. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
I picked this in black but it comes in softer shades like brown as well!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
This mascara is smudge-free & promises to really enhance your lashes! You can check out some of the before/after application pictures online & they're pretty impressive.</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-zGuwJSG1PRw/VhqnSBKigMI/AAAAAAAAVKk/SJqfASx1csY/s1600/IMG_9478.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-zGuwJSG1PRw/VhqnSBKigMI/AAAAAAAAVKk/SJqfASx1csY/s1600/IMG_9478.jpg" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
I did a simple makeup look using ONLY the 4 Benefit Cosmetics items above for a casual brunch!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
As recommended by the instructions in the <b>Big Beautiful Eyes</b> palette, I used the dark brown on the outer edges to create deeper-looking eyes & lined the bottom lash line as well.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Using eyeliner on the bottom lash line often looks too overly strong so I do recommend using a dark brown eyeshadow instead, or at least layered together to lessen the abruptness of eyeliner!</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-acj6IlCn8i0/VhqnSsfvw9I/AAAAAAAAVKw/nbyZZtp-ByI/s1600/IMG_9482.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-acj6IlCn8i0/VhqnSsfvw9I/AAAAAAAAVKw/nbyZZtp-ByI/s1600/IMG_9482.jpg" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
I even had to forgo my usual wingtip eyeliner that I so love just to test out doing it with eyeshadow instead! It's definitely different from my usual red-lips-wing-tip look that I've been sporting for a while, but it's a nice change! This was pretty much what I looked like during my university days actually, back when I was still into light pink blushes & lipsticks.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
You can of course add on your own makeup preferences for a different look!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Browse the wide range of Benefit Cosmetics products available online at <a href="http://www.luxola.com/sg/brands/luxury/benefit-cosmetics?utm_source=influencer_marketing&utm_medium=referrals&utm_campaign=other_sophieforbenefit">Luxola</a>.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.luxola.com/sg/brands/luxury/benefit-cosmetics?utm_source=influencer_marketing&utm_medium=referrals&utm_campaign=other_sophieforbenefit"><span style="font-size: large;">Luxola.com.sg</span></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<br /></div>
sophiewillocqhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14949085151032830398noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-19447173.post-52822239628156395502015-09-04T22:23:00.000+08:002015-09-04T22:24:53.620+08:00Travelogue : San Francisco<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Happened to be in San Francisco on the same day as my old friend Sherry so that was exciting!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
We bunked in together for 2 nights & went sightseeing on the one full day we had.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Also, all pictures below are from her camera!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
We decided to pay for a Hop-on-Hop-off tour bus which cost 35 USD :X</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Kinda pricey really & as I said to Sherry, it would probably have cost us less to take cab from point to point. Most of the touristy spots (I'll list them below) are located very near each other, which makes walking between them the easiest mode of transport.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
The only exception would be the Golden Gate Bridge, so essentially we paid 35USD to have an open-air/top-down ride through the Golden Gate Bridge! Quite an exciting experience so I'm undecided on the final conclusion of whether the tour was a waste of money or not.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
So anyway that day we covered:</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<b>Fisherman's Wharf</b></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<b>Ghirardelli Square</b></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<b>Lombard Street</b></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<b>Golden Gate Bridge</b></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
First stop was the Fisherman's Wharf!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<b>Fisherman's Wharf </b>& <b>Pier 39 </b>are almost synonymous & they pretty much consist of lots of restaurants! The specialty here would be the clam chowder, which can be found on the pier.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Sherry also tried this very famous fish & chips place called The Cod Mother & she highly recommends it! It's a casual sorta-food truck & is located a bit further in Fisherman's Wharf (not along the pier).</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Another point of interest would be the sea lions suntanning on floating wooden platforms!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Kinda cute but also pretty noisy & sometimes smelly haha.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
From the edge of the pier you can also spot the island of Alcatraz.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
P.S. Alcatraz tour tickets are usually sold out, so book in advance!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-663gIyt8VhA/VeX4wzew3kI/AAAAAAAAVFo/ZvwoU81Ayus/s1600/DSC01675.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-663gIyt8VhA/VeX4wzew3kI/AAAAAAAAVFo/ZvwoU81Ayus/s1600/DSC01675.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
From here we began walking towards Ghirardelli Square.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-TtURiDWfVqg/VeX4w7TCmnI/AAAAAAAAVFU/jsxw17Yz8RQ/s1600/DSC01677.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-TtURiDWfVqg/VeX4w7TCmnI/AAAAAAAAVFU/jsxw17Yz8RQ/s1600/DSC01677.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-WbLxhC5Pysg/VeX4w_y9yVI/AAAAAAAAVFY/Qu-FZGcGEuE/s1600/DSC01678.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-WbLxhC5Pysg/VeX4w_y9yVI/AAAAAAAAVFY/Qu-FZGcGEuE/s1600/DSC01678.jpg" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
A small beach! You'll actually see people swimming here, which is sort of strange because so many people are walking past all the time & it's right beside big ships & restaurants.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Arrived at Ghirardelli Square! Ghirardelli is a chocolatier & at Ghirardelli Square you can find both his dessert restaurant as well as his chocolate shops (along with other unrelated shops & restaurants).</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Quite a nice place to check out!</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-x_Oe0Zs_gE0/VeX4xneFafI/AAAAAAAAVFk/_pKf5KLfYug/s1600/DSC01681.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-x_Oe0Zs_gE0/VeX4xneFafI/AAAAAAAAVFk/_pKf5KLfYug/s1600/DSC01681.jpg" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
As the shop awning says; we had to try it!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
There can be quite a queue here but luckily when we arrived we managed to get a table almost immediately. There was a queue when we left though!</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-M-NQGm2oFpo/VeX4x4V6biI/AAAAAAAAVFs/8RRi3tedjg8/s1600/DSC01683.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-M-NQGm2oFpo/VeX4x4V6biI/AAAAAAAAVFs/8RRi3tedjg8/s1600/DSC01683.jpg" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
I'm actually not a huge fan of sundaes (don't like chocolate syrup) but it really was pretty good!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
The Original one cost us 11.50 USD but they have many other concoctions that sound yummy.</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-uDiW7mZfPMQ/VeX4yEDf0FI/AAAAAAAAVF0/Do4TRBcbP6g/s1600/DSC01686.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-uDiW7mZfPMQ/VeX4yEDf0FI/AAAAAAAAVF0/Do4TRBcbP6g/s1600/DSC01686.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-kU0Q10rIbo8/VeX4yXfEicI/AAAAAAAAVF4/2zyyG9ypUt4/s1600/DSC01690.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-kU0Q10rIbo8/VeX4yXfEicI/AAAAAAAAVF4/2zyyG9ypUt4/s1600/DSC01690.jpg" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
From here we began making our way towards Lombard Street!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Lombard Street is actually quite long, but one section of it is the famous Crookedest Street!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
To get there it was quite an uphill climb... San Francisco is crazily hilly!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Anyhow we made our way up the area that is known as Russian Hill.</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-QY13_QAbUts/VeX4ysKzOQI/AAAAAAAAVGA/7S2FHv9QPFM/s1600/DSC01692.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-QY13_QAbUts/VeX4ysKzOQI/AAAAAAAAVGA/7S2FHv9QPFM/s1600/DSC01692.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-c8gZobWOH90/VeX4zKuj58I/AAAAAAAAVGY/dc9Ar5NEW0k/s1600/DSC01694.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-c8gZobWOH90/VeX4zKuj58I/AAAAAAAAVGY/dc9Ar5NEW0k/s1600/DSC01694.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-3VUQjT7H9pY/VeX4zCJStVI/AAAAAAAAVGM/QjBPDHJv9GA/s1600/DSC01698.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-3VUQjT7H9pY/VeX4zCJStVI/AAAAAAAAVGM/QjBPDHJv9GA/s1600/DSC01698.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Oc7Mp-i6UN4/VeX4zkskm8I/AAAAAAAAVGc/K1HdDt9_B0w/s1600/DSC01699.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Oc7Mp-i6UN4/VeX4zkskm8I/AAAAAAAAVGc/K1HdDt9_B0w/s1600/DSC01699.jpg" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Had a great view of the harbour though!</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-hc18WTqWam8/VeX4z5YiFPI/AAAAAAAAVGg/yTaWqWjhjWE/s1600/DSC01702.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-hc18WTqWam8/VeX4z5YiFPI/AAAAAAAAVGg/yTaWqWjhjWE/s1600/DSC01702.jpg" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Finally reached the top & opposite us we could spot Coit Tower - another tourist attraction! It was most recently featured/mentioned in the movie San Andreas (based mostly in San Francisco).</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Coit Tower is named after a lady called Lily Coit & the city built this tower in her honour after her passing to commemorate all her efforts in supporting the San Francisco firefighters.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
(See, I do listen to tour bus guides...)</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
And here's the famed Crookedest Street in the World!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-fXklrNX2YUE/VeX40HgTeOI/AAAAAAAAVGs/Ec0FalJzZlE/s1600/DSC01711.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-fXklrNX2YUE/VeX40HgTeOI/AAAAAAAAVGs/Ec0FalJzZlE/s1600/DSC01711.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-F0ggK9kKHus/VeX40iZ6PQI/AAAAAAAAVGw/Q9_rgbj86JU/s1600/DSC01715.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-F0ggK9kKHus/VeX40iZ6PQI/AAAAAAAAVGw/Q9_rgbj86JU/s1600/DSC01715.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-16fuGcpf_pQ/VeX40iC2PmI/AAAAAAAAVG0/MJx6zXJs4NY/s1600/DSC01716.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-16fuGcpf_pQ/VeX40iC2PmI/AAAAAAAAVG0/MJx6zXJs4NY/s1600/DSC01716.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-7uSf84XXc8A/VeX41AwdcxI/AAAAAAAAVG8/3JCb0k--50A/s1600/DSC01720.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-7uSf84XXc8A/VeX41AwdcxI/AAAAAAAAVG8/3JCb0k--50A/s1600/DSC01720.jpg" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Naturally the traffic going down it is pretty slow (precisely what it was intended for), especially as you'll spot lots of tourists driving down it with a GoPro/camera in hand to film the descent.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
The entire crooked section is lined with really pretty flowers though!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
There are also houses lined along the way & I can't imagine the ruckus they must face from tourists climbing up & down the steps on the sides of Lombard Street.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
And also, I learned the next day that a shooting had occurred the day we were there :O</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
A Thai tourist had his camera snatched from him & when he gave chase, the robbers shot him!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
This happened about 12pm & traffic was closed till about 3pm while police searched for the suspects.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
We arrived shortly after at about 3.30pm & everything was back to normal & everyone was painfully oblivious & none the wiser :O</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-4s5eFJbZP60/VeX41fjLpMI/AAAAAAAAVHA/iTc1OKDgBxY/s1600/DSC01729.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-4s5eFJbZP60/VeX41fjLpMI/AAAAAAAAVHA/iTc1OKDgBxY/s1600/DSC01729.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-zPRHuNAsmPE/VeX41nqk9iI/AAAAAAAAVHI/N81nfldT4N4/s1600/DSC01739.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-zPRHuNAsmPE/VeX41nqk9iI/AAAAAAAAVHI/N81nfldT4N4/s1600/DSC01739.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-fXtco20lVqg/VeX413AjolI/AAAAAAAAVHQ/UXpaGf0UClM/s1600/DSC01740.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-fXtco20lVqg/VeX413AjolI/AAAAAAAAVHQ/UXpaGf0UClM/s1600/DSC01740.jpg" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
From here you can spot how uphill & downhill it is! After this we walked downhill back towards Fisherman's Wharf & waited to get picked up by our Hop-on-Hop-off bus, which arrives every 30 mins.</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-wyrYgE8G8G8/VeX418ugNDI/AAAAAAAAVHo/V4LplLXG8P0/s1600/DSC01744.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-wyrYgE8G8G8/VeX418ugNDI/AAAAAAAAVHo/V4LplLXG8P0/s1600/DSC01744.jpg" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
And finally for our last stop - the Golden Gate Bridge!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
I actually visited the Golden Gate Bridge in December 2014, where I cycled 2 hours from Fisherman's Wharf right up the Bridge. It was a crazy uphill trip so by the time we made it to the Bridge we were pretty tired! We only cycled about 1/3 of the way on the Bridge itself (which is very long, by the way) before calling it quits as the idea of cycling back across the Bridge wasn't too appealing either.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
This time I had the tour bus to bring me across & back!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
We sat on top to get a good view but it was crazily windy! Any loose items on you at this point WILL most certainly fly off. The view is fantastic but I was miserably cold... The wind permeated every bone in my body *dramatic* My teeth were chattering & my eyes teared from the wind whipping across my face... But I guess the view/experience was quite worth it!</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-bq3-eZCCwpA/VeX42VKhEkI/AAAAAAAAVHg/nHmez762ao4/s1600/DSC01746.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-bq3-eZCCwpA/VeX42VKhEkI/AAAAAAAAVHg/nHmez762ao4/s1600/DSC01746.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-WV5Qtwfpauk/VeX42rYf9kI/AAAAAAAAVHs/lbqbt3CWA4o/s1600/DSC01751.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-WV5Qtwfpauk/VeX42rYf9kI/AAAAAAAAVHs/lbqbt3CWA4o/s1600/DSC01751.jpg" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
The only person crazily happy about the wind haha.</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-eZLD9FThV70/VeX43LjCdJI/AAAAAAAAVH8/JRruZ8Zv7S0/s1600/DSC01754.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-eZLD9FThV70/VeX43LjCdJI/AAAAAAAAVH8/JRruZ8Zv7S0/s1600/DSC01754.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-vdQQHLIPgpU/VeX43T9kdAI/AAAAAAAAVIE/7NWiu8TwbXk/s1600/DSC01757.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-vdQQHLIPgpU/VeX43T9kdAI/AAAAAAAAVIE/7NWiu8TwbXk/s1600/DSC01757.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-b6AhPBVb-ds/VeX43i0xLJI/AAAAAAAAVIA/RLZLrZEqkzE/s1600/DSC01769.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-b6AhPBVb-ds/VeX43i0xLJI/AAAAAAAAVIA/RLZLrZEqkzE/s1600/DSC01769.jpg" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Here's the view from the other side of the Bridge! </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
The tour bus will stop here for a few minutes at this lookout point for everyone to take pictures.</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-HrJxNEbhRbw/VeX44Pcx5WI/AAAAAAAAVIU/z0brmzr1MNQ/s1600/DSC01781.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-HrJxNEbhRbw/VeX44Pcx5WI/AAAAAAAAVIU/z0brmzr1MNQ/s1600/DSC01781.jpg" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
And I guess that's about it for touristy stuff!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
The bus dropped us back near Union Square, which is the big shopping area.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
If you haven't tried these eateries before, they're worth a visit:</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<b>IHOP</b></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
All-American diner/breakfast food & mean pancakes! It's apparently not THAT popular with locals, but I feel the food is pretty good, there's a huge variety so that's great for groups & prices are very reasonable (about 10-20 USD per person).</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<b>Cheesecake Factory</b></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Serves many, many mains as well as cheesecakes of course. The food here is very rich & comes in huge portions, so it's great for sharing! The Caesar salad is good, as well as the pastas.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Pretty pricey though, dinner for the 2 of us came up to 70USD (2 mains + 2 cheesecakes)!</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>The Cod Mother</b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
The fish & chips place Sherry mentioned to me & it seemed pretty life-changing for her haha.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
I saw how it looked like & it's basically a permanent food truck with a decent-sized eating area (an open-air space with wooden picnic tables), reasonable pricing as well since it's casual dining.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
So that's for the major touristy things in San Francisco!</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
You can also check out <b>Chinatown</b> & <b>Little Italy</b>, but these are more just areas to walk through with nothing specific/in particular to see. I passed by both on the tour bus & that seemed enough.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Oh yes & of course <b>Alcatraz</b> (both day & night tours available), which is a bucket list item!</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
If I had to pick just one spot to visit, I'd say <b>Fisherman's Wharf</b>! Very bustling, lots of food & street buskers & from here you can spot Golden Gate Bridge + Alcatraz from afar hahaha (if that counts).</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Oh & you can take a ride on one of the 2 tram lines left (which is now just a tourist attraction rather than an actual form of transport), which costs 7USD! For me I simply took a picture with it when it was stationary... One end of it can be found near Union Square (be prepared to queue).</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Okay that's it for this post! Impressed with myself for remembering all these details :D</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
</div>
<div>
</div>
<br />
<div style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; color: black; font-family: Times; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: normal; orphans: auto; text-align: center; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: auto; word-spacing: 0px;">
<div style="margin: 0px;">
Bye!</div>
</div>
</div>
sophiewillocqhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14949085151032830398noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-19447173.post-59241996236414621532015-08-19T06:19:00.000+08:002015-08-19T06:19:11.182+08:00Hitting my mid-twenties<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-SlmCj9dfW0A/VdOXImGhVKI/AAAAAAAAVEg/ZWf7eoVR7NQ/s1600/IMG_8420.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-SlmCj9dfW0A/VdOXImGhVKI/AAAAAAAAVEg/ZWf7eoVR7NQ/s1600/IMG_8420.jpg" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
The last few years I haven't been doing much for my birthdays as I guess I never really thought it was that big a deal. Strange, as when I was a child my mom was always pretty big on birthday parties for me & would put in lots of effort into making fun-looking food & games for my friends & I!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Maybe I got my fill of birthdays when I was a child haha. But I think I'm lucky that I got to experience that when I was growing up overseas, because for Asians it's usually more of a close-knit family dinner affair rather than rowdy kiddy parties.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Anyhow, the last time I celebrated my birthday was for my 21st, so I decided to do something this year!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Officially hitting...</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
...my mid-twenties</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
I can no longer pretend to have "just" legally become an adult.</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-R85lQDb_zSA/VdOXI_SZhAI/AAAAAAAAU-s/bKf4uY8zhiI/s1600/IMG_8423.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-R85lQDb_zSA/VdOXI_SZhAI/AAAAAAAAU-s/bKf4uY8zhiI/s1600/IMG_8423.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-0IZW57gNjLw/VdOXI9CqU1I/AAAAAAAAVEg/GTJQAS33Ytc/s1600/IMG_8425.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-0IZW57gNjLw/VdOXI9CqU1I/AAAAAAAAVEg/GTJQAS33Ytc/s1600/IMG_8425.jpg" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
I spent my birthday weekend (24th & 25th July) with a staycation at Grand Hyatt!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
They put me up at the Grand Club Deluxe Room, which comes with a little living area so that was great for my little birthday get-together!</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-rRjcvBVfQm0/VdOXJafckfI/AAAAAAAAVEg/bUXX4iodwGw/s1600/IMG_8430.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-rRjcvBVfQm0/VdOXJafckfI/AAAAAAAAVEg/bUXX4iodwGw/s1600/IMG_8430.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-QW-pmFySYWY/VdOXJi9M7HI/AAAAAAAAVEc/BAYkkVOF4PY/s1600/IMG_8433.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-QW-pmFySYWY/VdOXJi9M7HI/AAAAAAAAVEc/BAYkkVOF4PY/s1600/IMG_8433.jpg" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
But my favourite part definitely has to be the bathroom!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
The bathroom is so big & grand; though I didn't get round to even using that bathtub haha.</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-hrrHYbBlq6Y/VdOXJ43P3KI/AAAAAAAAVEc/EHICd_1LH78/s1600/IMG_8434.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-hrrHYbBlq6Y/VdOXJ43P3KI/AAAAAAAAVEc/EHICd_1LH78/s1600/IMG_8434.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-8HuoWIQM6lA/VdOXKJnvpiI/AAAAAAAAU-8/RBbVYIOKMe4/s1600/IMG_8435.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-8HuoWIQM6lA/VdOXKJnvpiI/AAAAAAAAU-8/RBbVYIOKMe4/s1600/IMG_8435.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-DQZQhMPW_Ng/VdOXMqkjhSI/AAAAAAAAU_8/In1zT9EnT9Y/s1600/IMG_8504.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-DQZQhMPW_Ng/VdOXMqkjhSI/AAAAAAAAU_8/In1zT9EnT9Y/s1600/IMG_8504.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ONB41BAKjVA/VdOXM0F_uXI/AAAAAAAAVAM/p99BOECx-U4/s1600/IMG_8506.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ONB41BAKjVA/VdOXM0F_uXI/AAAAAAAAVAM/p99BOECx-U4/s1600/IMG_8506.jpg" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Changed into my birthday outfit to go down for dinner!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
But before that, we also spent some time taking pictures of my pretty birthday cakes & sweet treats!</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-IEeDuwAaOqc/VdOXKe2PQxI/AAAAAAAAVEc/jNUipoTyV7A/s1600/IMG_8447.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-IEeDuwAaOqc/VdOXKe2PQxI/AAAAAAAAVEc/jNUipoTyV7A/s1600/IMG_8447.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-TJhsx-Xk4mM/VdOXKmK_TuI/AAAAAAAAVEc/YF70yerASPQ/s1600/IMG_8452.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-TJhsx-Xk4mM/VdOXKmK_TuI/AAAAAAAAVEc/YF70yerASPQ/s1600/IMG_8452.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-I1IICCNsNiw/VdOXLBf220I/AAAAAAAAU_Q/Qf8g9SrUcJQ/s1600/IMG_8459.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-I1IICCNsNiw/VdOXLBf220I/AAAAAAAAU_Q/Qf8g9SrUcJQ/s1600/IMG_8459.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-u9gOJ-Q4aAQ/VdOXK9ClHSI/AAAAAAAAVEc/EIGRWPt4sEo/s1600/IMG_8457.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-u9gOJ-Q4aAQ/VdOXK9ClHSI/AAAAAAAAVEc/EIGRWPt4sEo/s1600/IMG_8457.jpg" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Spoilt me had TWO birthday cakes hahahaha.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
I'm not usually that much of a sweet tooth person, but I was suddenly in the mood for it & what better excuse than a birthday? Om nom nom nom!</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-T2kzBqgp1J8/VdOXL8ueyBI/AAAAAAAAU_g/U8idbY7suvE/s1600/IMG_8465.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-T2kzBqgp1J8/VdOXL8ueyBI/AAAAAAAAU_g/U8idbY7suvE/s1600/IMG_8465.jpg" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
This white & floral cake was kindly created by the in-house Hyatt pastry chef!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Isn't it so pretty? Frankly I didn't expect much as it's not exactly Hyatt's specialty (compared to an actual bakery) so I thought it would be a more generic cake, but we were all very surprised to see this!</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-MPqNuyrAmII/VdOXLaoekiI/AAAAAAAAVEc/At49GbpbXN8/s1600/IMG_8462.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-MPqNuyrAmII/VdOXLaoekiI/AAAAAAAAVEc/At49GbpbXN8/s1600/IMG_8462.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-LzzmDAfVsGk/VdOXLtcxb5I/AAAAAAAAU_k/OF0r_LbAjRI/s1600/IMG_8463.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-LzzmDAfVsGk/VdOXLtcxb5I/AAAAAAAAU_k/OF0r_LbAjRI/s1600/IMG_8463.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-SHT7n4_22C0/VdOXMNfMicI/AAAAAAAAU_o/9pei2DF_U_g/s1600/IMG_8470.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-SHT7n4_22C0/VdOXMNfMicI/AAAAAAAAU_o/9pei2DF_U_g/s1600/IMG_8470.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
My other cake with super cute ombre pastel pink layers & dripping purple cream is by Creme Maison Bakery! The floral cupcakes are by them as well & I loved it! They're able to do any form of customisation & you should really check out some of their very cute designs on their Instagram!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<b>Creme Maison Bakery</b></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://crememaison.com/">(website)</a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
(<a href="https://instagram.com/crememaisonbakery/">Instagram</a>)</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-soGcOmGD5-4/VdOXMQoKnPI/AAAAAAAAU_4/fnGsO0aRORI/s1600/IMG_8486.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-soGcOmGD5-4/VdOXMQoKnPI/AAAAAAAAU_4/fnGsO0aRORI/s1600/IMG_8486.jpg" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Also had these bear macarons by The Macaron Shop, as well as normal pastel macarons!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
They have a whole bunch of other cute character macarons such as Elmo & Hello Kitty :O</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<b>The Macaron Shop</b></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
(<a href="http://www.themacaronshopsg.com/">website</a>)</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
(<a href="https://instagram.com/themacaronshopsg">Instagram</a>)</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-9XYo0llbJL4/VdOXNCmHl6I/AAAAAAAAVAI/19K3GPJuVE8/s1600/IMG_8520.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-9XYo0llbJL4/VdOXNCmHl6I/AAAAAAAAVAI/19K3GPJuVE8/s1600/IMG_8520.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-pPeSdfCnLjs/VdOXNqdb2_I/AAAAAAAAVAw/1JkI1SgpEQg/s1600/IMG_8523.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-pPeSdfCnLjs/VdOXNqdb2_I/AAAAAAAAVAw/1JkI1SgpEQg/s1600/IMG_8523.jpg" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Birthday outfit!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Floral crown // <i>Topshop</i></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Crop top // <i>Tobi</i></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Clutch // <i>Saint Laurent</i></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Necklace // <i>Chanel</i></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Flats // <i>Primark</i></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Crochet skirt // <i>Oh Vola</i></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<b>Oh Vola</b></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
(<a href="http://www.ohvola.com/">website</a>)</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
(<a href="https://instagram.com/ohvola/?hl=en">Instagram</a>)</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Fun fact - the Chanel necklace was my birthday gift last year from Yutaki, Qiuting, Wendy & Shuyin!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
This year Wendy & Shuyin couldn't make it because they were in Osaka!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
So for dinner it was just Yutaki, Qiuting, Miyake & I & we headed to one of Hyatt's many restaurants, <b>10 Scotts</b>, for the buffet dinner!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Buffet ANYTHING is super exciting hahaha.</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-qxuu8jOKFnE/VdOXN1L9lfI/AAAAAAAAVAc/XAQ1A1tg5_0/s1600/IMG_8529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-qxuu8jOKFnE/VdOXN1L9lfI/AAAAAAAAVAc/XAQ1A1tg5_0/s1600/IMG_8529.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
I actually really love grapes as well as the very sweet melon pictured above!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Grapes are possibly my 2nd most favourite fruit, with the first being apples. I can easily finish a whole supermarket box of grapes in one night.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ReQkLbf8mRA/VdOXOASXYeI/AAAAAAAAVAY/9OVjL6me_ZM/s1600/IMG_8532.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ReQkLbf8mRA/VdOXOASXYeI/AAAAAAAAVAY/9OVjL6me_ZM/s1600/IMG_8532.jpg" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
The buffet dinner included this special set-up of various small treats ranging from dim sum to prawn burgers! Each set has 2 persons' portions, so for the 4 of us we got 2 of these stands.</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-nr_kkRHxbNo/VdOXO96ma_I/AAAAAAAAVEc/R7R2D2qhr10/s1600/IMG_8534.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-nr_kkRHxbNo/VdOXO96ma_I/AAAAAAAAVEc/R7R2D2qhr10/s1600/IMG_8534.jpg" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Pictured is the pumpkin soup! </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
But there was also mushroom soup (everyone's favourite), which I had 2 bowls of!</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-4s5X5dpURFE/VdOXPE3FjnI/AAAAAAAAVAs/TmPguGQf_bE/s1600/IMG_8538.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-4s5X5dpURFE/VdOXPE3FjnI/AAAAAAAAVAs/TmPguGQf_bE/s1600/IMG_8538.jpg" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
It's astonishing how filling all these small varied items can be...</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
We were so stuffed at the end & couldn't finish everything!</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-dzvW_e03SiY/VdOXPxYr13I/AAAAAAAAVA0/RdI2OgvHhMo/s1600/IMG_8540.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-dzvW_e03SiY/VdOXPxYr13I/AAAAAAAAVA0/RdI2OgvHhMo/s1600/IMG_8540.jpg" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Omg Qiuting had like FOUR helpings of this special prawn dish!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
It was really good but I can't believe she literally took FOUR plates hahahaha.</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-oRKWyet1ZhM/VdOXP2d1qHI/AAAAAAAAVBA/JTFqRUzEfQ8/s1600/IMG_8546.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-oRKWyet1ZhM/VdOXP2d1qHI/AAAAAAAAVBA/JTFqRUzEfQ8/s1600/IMG_8546.jpg" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
And to end of... we had this really refreshing berry cocktail!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Thankfully it didn't taste too strongly of alcohol & the berries really complemented it.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
But Qiuting & Yutaki have the worst alcohol tolerance ever so they became red-faced & hyper after just one glass each *facepalm* LOL</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-eSkigi6mgps/VdOXQSQT9QI/AAAAAAAAVEc/A5x7h8SCUbA/s1600/IMG_8549.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-eSkigi6mgps/VdOXQSQT9QI/AAAAAAAAVEc/A5x7h8SCUbA/s1600/IMG_8549.jpg" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
When you're trying to take an OOTD & your friend photobombs you.</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-r7NbceqOCjk/VdOXQk59HpI/AAAAAAAAVBQ/X996BolkxCw/s1600/IMG_8555.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-r7NbceqOCjk/VdOXQk59HpI/AAAAAAAAVBQ/X996BolkxCw/s1600/IMG_8555.jpg" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Snuck a shot of Yutaki posing for his OOTD!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Group pictures! Thank you to the 3 of you for spending my birthday countdown with me! :D</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
To be honest, I was a bit moody that day because I'm not really into this sort of hosting-gathering thing (unless you count just letting people come to my house) so I was a bit out of my comfort zone. And to make matters worse, everyone had something on before my birthday gathering! So I was quite sad thinking I was going to be there alone in the room for the afternoon until everyone could come in the evening, but the 3 of them turned up together earlier than I expected :)</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Also, it so happens that my boyfriend's mom shares the exact same birthdate as me LOL.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Never in my (short/long) 25 years have I met someone with the same birthday until now.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
So yeah he couldn't be there with me that early either!</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-okSFZ6hwjgg/VdOXZkTbnaI/AAAAAAAAVD8/mcVyYkprkGM/s1600/P7240074.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-okSFZ6hwjgg/VdOXZkTbnaI/AAAAAAAAVD8/mcVyYkprkGM/s1600/P7240074.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-jqZuE2yhJCY/VdOXZjA9gBI/AAAAAAAAVDo/_3aeMHfNR4w/s1600/P7240075.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-jqZuE2yhJCY/VdOXZjA9gBI/AAAAAAAAVDo/_3aeMHfNR4w/s1600/P7240075.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-7674MrK4AeA/VdOXZ7_qdbI/AAAAAAAAVDs/JFM2oPElWPE/s1600/P7240104.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-7674MrK4AeA/VdOXZ7_qdbI/AAAAAAAAVDs/JFM2oPElWPE/s1600/P7240104.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-GZc0x2QgQGY/VdOXacV_ipI/AAAAAAAAVD0/xMoa2rpgpyk/s1600/P7240107.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-GZc0x2QgQGY/VdOXacV_ipI/AAAAAAAAVD0/xMoa2rpgpyk/s1600/P7240107.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-_joSaa77tS8/VdOXa84N4oI/AAAAAAAAVEI/7U-yTZQpkyc/s1600/P7240108.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-_joSaa77tS8/VdOXa84N4oI/AAAAAAAAVEI/7U-yTZQpkyc/s1600/P7240108.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-8rxz6Oxyt1c/VdOXbPFsCdI/AAAAAAAAVEA/bnWI0XFZ_FQ/s1600/P7240109.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-8rxz6Oxyt1c/VdOXbPFsCdI/AAAAAAAAVEA/bnWI0XFZ_FQ/s1600/P7240109.jpg" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Oh yes if you're wondering what I got for my birthday...</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Qiuting & Miyake got me a new pair of Ray Ban sunglasses as I lost mine in New York! T_T</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Qiuting also gave me an angbao to defray the cost of the staycation hahaha (I tried to reject but she was super fierce wtf; being "adults" means we now give angbaos haha).</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
And Yutaki gave me new camera lenses for my DSLR, which I used for many of the pictures in this post! It has the ability to do that whole, front-sharp & back-blur thing which instantly makes my pictures look 50x more professional hahaha omg love itttttt!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Like this below!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-yhn95WbGeto/VdOXQt_GRRI/AAAAAAAAVEc/A0OuhAtahYk/s1600/IMG_8557.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-yhn95WbGeto/VdOXQt_GRRI/AAAAAAAAVEc/A0OuhAtahYk/s1600/IMG_8557.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-crt4qkUrxW0/VdOXRS1k7vI/AAAAAAAAVEc/cXvyvUzEzmY/s1600/IMG_8559.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-crt4qkUrxW0/VdOXRS1k7vI/AAAAAAAAVEc/cXvyvUzEzmY/s1600/IMG_8559.jpg" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
New earrings my boyfriend got for me! I didn't even realise he took these pictures of me till I uploaded everything to my laptop. He likes the new camera lens too; like I said, it instantly makes us feel more professional lolol #AYGPhotographer</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-erITEEbLu2c/VdOXR0OjZxI/AAAAAAAAVEc/YFLzemDufhU/s1600/IMG_8570.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-erITEEbLu2c/VdOXR0OjZxI/AAAAAAAAVEc/YFLzemDufhU/s1600/IMG_8570.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-R8zRugOcbGM/VdOXSP2dy4I/AAAAAAAAVBo/ASnh82Vj3KM/s1600/IMG_8584.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-R8zRugOcbGM/VdOXSP2dy4I/AAAAAAAAVBo/ASnh82Vj3KM/s1600/IMG_8584.jpg" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Waited till the next day to get pictures of my lovely bouquet of flowers!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Omg the mix of pinks, greens & whites is so pretty!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
This bouquet is from the sweet girls at Fleuriste! Fleuriste also offers a floral subscription service where they will deliver flowers to you on a regular basis depending on your preference & schedule!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<b>Fleuriste</b></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
(<a href="http://www.fleuriste.sg/">website</a>)</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
(<a href="https://instagram.com/fleuriste.sg/">Instagram</a>)</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-UbwfSFLCF_M/VdOXRn-xQJI/AAAAAAAAVEc/Vwl_xkElAPs/s1600/IMG_8563.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-UbwfSFLCF_M/VdOXRn-xQJI/AAAAAAAAVEc/Vwl_xkElAPs/s1600/IMG_8563.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
My Creme Maison Bakery cake! I had asked for matcha strawberry flavour & was really surprised that I could really taste the matcha! They have a ton of other really unique flavours as well that you should definitely try out!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-hteo3AaeYbA/VdOXSwLJ7uI/AAAAAAAAVEc/bjGtexUe47E/s1600/IMG_8589.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-hteo3AaeYbA/VdOXSwLJ7uI/AAAAAAAAVEc/bjGtexUe47E/s1600/IMG_8589.jpg" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
The inside of the Hyatt cake! Not only pretty outside but also yummy inside!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Don't know the exact flavour for this but I think it may also have some strawberry!</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-MUGYxGyl6TU/VdOXSWx98GI/AAAAAAAAVEc/YXgQ6zMk948/s1600/IMG_8586.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-MUGYxGyl6TU/VdOXSWx98GI/AAAAAAAAVEc/YXgQ6zMk948/s1600/IMG_8586.jpg" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Here's how the stems of the flowers are poked into the cake if you're curious!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Looks like SO MUCH work :O</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Spent some time at the pool that day before dinner! :D</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Zd-ln89-FZc/VdOXUkEL7WI/AAAAAAAAVCU/9t_P_PskbWU/s1600/IMG_8623.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Zd-ln89-FZc/VdOXUkEL7WI/AAAAAAAAVCU/9t_P_PskbWU/s1600/IMG_8623.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-StF_of68D1U/VdOXS5dHpJI/AAAAAAAAVB4/1qmiyPfd2Mk/s1600/IMG_8602.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-StF_of68D1U/VdOXS5dHpJI/AAAAAAAAVB4/1qmiyPfd2Mk/s1600/IMG_8602.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-j5Fcp8qBch0/VdOXTXhL-jI/AAAAAAAAVEc/Oukaq1iX9zM/s1600/IMG_8608.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-j5Fcp8qBch0/VdOXTXhL-jI/AAAAAAAAVEc/Oukaq1iX9zM/s1600/IMG_8608.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
I really like the whole chair-in-the-water concept.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
I mean it just seems very <i>shiok</i> if you get what I mean; lounging but still keeping cool!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Also, the restaurant in the background is the poolside BBQ grill where we had our dinner!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
More on that below.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-F0pQsyvSGw4/VdOXThXMfPI/AAAAAAAAVCA/YYtPQWrpQ4o/s1600/IMG_8609.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-F0pQsyvSGw4/VdOXThXMfPI/AAAAAAAAVCA/YYtPQWrpQ4o/s1600/IMG_8609.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-7kgliNs7HtE/VdOXT7Lce0I/AAAAAAAAVEc/N8-zknaKCGg/s1600/IMG_8615.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-7kgliNs7HtE/VdOXT7Lce0I/AAAAAAAAVEc/N8-zknaKCGg/s1600/IMG_8615.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-WI3kqkmM__k/VdOXU8R-ZOI/AAAAAAAAVCM/Ql5SV2vJoaw/s1600/IMG_8634.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-WI3kqkmM__k/VdOXU8R-ZOI/AAAAAAAAVCM/Ql5SV2vJoaw/s1600/IMG_8634.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-nP9oTiU9yxA/VdOXU4z9zrI/AAAAAAAAVEc/Za1hsZSdwwI/s1600/IMG_8650.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-nP9oTiU9yxA/VdOXU4z9zrI/AAAAAAAAVEc/Za1hsZSdwwI/s1600/IMG_8650.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-XVnh9AN2V5M/VdOXVjjEdYI/AAAAAAAAVEc/Q8JEIG323u0/s1600/IMG_8674.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-XVnh9AN2V5M/VdOXVjjEdYI/AAAAAAAAVEc/Q8JEIG323u0/s1600/IMG_8674.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-rkbD-AnBnRI/VdOXVy8KMpI/AAAAAAAAVEc/R6-RQYVShXY/s1600/IMG_8683.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-rkbD-AnBnRI/VdOXVy8KMpI/AAAAAAAAVEc/R6-RQYVShXY/s1600/IMG_8683.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ifiq1q0_6K4/VdOXWOd3R3I/AAAAAAAAVEY/p0ookwgzgJA/s1600/IMG_8689.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ifiq1q0_6K4/VdOXWOd3R3I/AAAAAAAAVEY/p0ookwgzgJA/s1600/IMG_8689.JPG" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Red monokini specially designed by my friend Sophia Chong, owner of The Juice Market!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
This piece also comes in black, navy & khaki & I bravely ventured away from always picking black...</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<b>The Juice Market</b></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
(<a href="http://www.thejuicemarket.com/">website</a>)</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
(<a href="https://instagram.com/thejuicemarket">Instagram</a>)</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
After washing up was BBQ buffet (yes, again) dinner at Oasis.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Oasis features all-you-can eat BBQ meat & seafood!</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-P5Wt3YnpWYQ/VdOXWYIP-9I/AAAAAAAAVCs/w2VmXh7Rn6M/s1600/IMG_8698.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-P5Wt3YnpWYQ/VdOXWYIP-9I/AAAAAAAAVCs/w2VmXh7Rn6M/s1600/IMG_8698.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-3dsFCxL66Ak/VdOXW_nl2RI/AAAAAAAAVEU/e_jGLMSrAfE/s1600/IMG_8700.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-3dsFCxL66Ak/VdOXW_nl2RI/AAAAAAAAVEU/e_jGLMSrAfE/s1600/IMG_8700.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-MqWpug-B3-c/VdOXXUPnIQI/AAAAAAAAVC8/8yawMda_U2o/s1600/IMG_8701.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-MqWpug-B3-c/VdOXXUPnIQI/AAAAAAAAVC8/8yawMda_U2o/s1600/IMG_8701.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-kNmYC0OUitI/VdOXXv688DI/AAAAAAAAVEQ/ErT2SmMtRcA/s1600/IMG_8703.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-kNmYC0OUitI/VdOXXv688DI/AAAAAAAAVEQ/ErT2SmMtRcA/s1600/IMG_8703.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-v2Z2OybdAik/VdOXYCoBJ8I/AAAAAAAAVEM/m6ploLv7U0o/s1600/IMG_8709.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-v2Z2OybdAik/VdOXYCoBJ8I/AAAAAAAAVEM/m6ploLv7U0o/s1600/IMG_8709.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-4sVhTeZUZSk/VdOXYVbVraI/AAAAAAAAVDM/yyEV5bTWSiQ/s1600/IMG_8712.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-4sVhTeZUZSk/VdOXYVbVraI/AAAAAAAAVDM/yyEV5bTWSiQ/s1600/IMG_8712.jpg" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Even had Peking duck! I love Peking duck but sadly it's pretty uncommon in Singapore!</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Dhhmbj-SFm0/VdOXYjgNMQI/AAAAAAAAVEE/ZuOsU2uNC40/s1600/IMG_8716.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Dhhmbj-SFm0/VdOXYjgNMQI/AAAAAAAAVEE/ZuOsU2uNC40/s1600/IMG_8716.jpg" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Had so many fresh oysters & prawns that weekend :) yum yum yum</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-k1jZ251R7Gk/VdOXY_po9xI/AAAAAAAAVDQ/nxYyGP80j-A/s1600/IMG_8719.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-k1jZ251R7Gk/VdOXY_po9xI/AAAAAAAAVDQ/nxYyGP80j-A/s1600/IMG_8719.jpg" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Here's my cut of steak which was really good! You can ask the chef to grill what you'd like to your desired doneness & mine was done perfectly. Really tender with flavourful seasoning.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Was great eaten on its own although the buffet does consist of sides like salad & potato gratin.</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-fYibjAj31Q4/VdOXZMNr5yI/AAAAAAAAVDY/JiFWqiAiWFM/s1600/IMG_8733.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-fYibjAj31Q4/VdOXZMNr5yI/AAAAAAAAVDY/JiFWqiAiWFM/s1600/IMG_8733.jpg" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
And last but not least... the staff surprised me with another birthday cake!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Super sweet of them & it was really an unexpected touch to end the evening.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
The service at Hyatt was really fantastic & I remember how I was greeted as soon as I got out of my Uber car. I guess the staff deduced from my small suitcase that I would be staying at Hyatt, so they came up to me right away in Hyatt's driveway & offered to assist me in my check-in.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Everything was handled very smoothly & promptly! Hyatt's convenient location in the middle of town is also great (I spent the night celebrating at Zouk & also stopped by the nearby 7-11 for snacks)!</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
If you'd like to check out Hyatt's hospitality as well, you can take a look below at some of the ongoing deals for their room & restaurant reservations!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-_Lr6kpoXS6c/VdOXHwsd5CI/AAAAAAAAU-M/LnDHpFyooJU/s1600/Hyatt1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-_Lr6kpoXS6c/VdOXHwsd5CI/AAAAAAAAU-M/LnDHpFyooJU/s1600/Hyatt1.jpg" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<b>Hyatt Room Stay</b></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://singapore.grand.hyatt.com/en/hotel/offers/offer-detail.html?offerId=55700397&code=">Click for more details</a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-3Az4-choZMk/VdOXH2p0ghI/AAAAAAAAU-c/__8HklC3Acs/s1600/Hyatt3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-3Az4-choZMk/VdOXH2p0ghI/AAAAAAAAU-c/__8HklC3Acs/s1600/Hyatt3.jpg" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<b>Buffet at 10 Scotts</b></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.singapore.grand.hyattrestaurants.com/10scotts/after-6-evening-buffet-at-10-scotts-,promotions_viewItem_102-en.html">Click for more details</a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-5vtfsEyg_sQ/VdOXHzs0kII/AAAAAAAAVEc/bbj6ezjOHvs/s1600/Hyatt2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-5vtfsEyg_sQ/VdOXHzs0kII/AAAAAAAAVEc/bbj6ezjOHvs/s1600/Hyatt2.jpg" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<b>BBQ Buffet at Oasis</b></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.singapore.grand.hyattrestaurants.com/oasis/bbq-buffet-dinner-,promotions_viewItem_37-en.html">Click for more details</a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<b>Grand Hyatt</b></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
10 Scotts Rd</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
(<a href="http://singapore.grand.hyatt.com/en/hotel/our-hotel.html">website</a>)</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
(<a href="https://instagram.com/grandhyattsing/">Instagram</a>)</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Thank you for having me Hyatt!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
As for how's life been since turning 25... I officially feel older. Somehow 25 sounds SO much older than 24! Or maybe it's just a matter of getting used to. But 24 sounded like it was still on the cusp of adulthood. 25...? Mid-twenties. OH & I have now officially progressed on to the next checkbox on every survey/form there is out there hahahaha.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
You know how forms ask you to mark your age range & it's usually something like this:</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
# 12 - 17</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
# 18 - 24</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
# 25 - 40</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Something like that. I distinctly remember the 18 - 24 category because I always felt it was unjust to lump my age group with teens still taking pocket money & studying LOL #indignantyoungadult</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
So I guess now that I'm in the next age range, I'm officially in the you-should-be-working category, which is how I interpret the 25 - 40 age categorisation for surveys.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Which I am. Working I mean.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Time has really flown by & I'm both in a hurry to speed it up & in a haste to slow it down... A decade has zoomed by since I won New Paper New Face :O Even university seems so long ago. But at the same time I need time to pass quicker so as to amass savings, settle down, get on in life... Can't I be 25 years old with the prospects/social status of an established 35 year old? Dammit.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
I do realise I talk about this whole growing up thing a lot... I guess I both anticipate & dread it.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<br />
<a href="http://www.pinterest.com/pin/create/extension/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.blogger.com%2Fblogger.g%3FblogID%3D19447173%23editor%2Fsrc%3Ddashboard&media=https%3A%2F%2F3.bp.blogspot.com%2F-5vtfsEyg_sQ%2FVdOXHzs0kII%2FAAAAAAAAVEc%2Fbbj6ezjOHvs%2Fs1600%2FHyatt2.jpg&xm=h&xv=sa1.37.01&xuid=dX6RwofnU0if&description=" style="background-color: transparent; background-image: url(data:image/png; border: none; cursor: pointer; display: none; height: 20px; left: 42px; opacity: 0.85; position: absolute; top: 33214px; width: 40px; z-index: 8675309;"></a><a href="http://www.pinterest.com/pin/create/extension/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.blogger.com%2Fblogger.g%3FblogID%3D19447173%23editor%2Fsrc%3Ddashboard&media=https%3A%2F%2F3.bp.blogspot.com%2F-5vtfsEyg_sQ%2FVdOXHzs0kII%2FAAAAAAAAVEc%2Fbbj6ezjOHvs%2Fs1600%2FHyatt2.jpg&xm=h&xv=sa1.37.01&xuid=dX6RwofnU0if&description=" style="background-color: transparent; background-image: url(data:image/png; border: none; cursor: pointer; display: none; height: 20px; left: 42px; opacity: 0.85; position: absolute; top: 33214px; width: 40px; z-index: 8675309;"></a><a href="http://www.pinterest.com/pin/create/extension/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.blogger.com%2Fblogger.g%3FblogID%3D19447173%23editor%2Fsrc%3Ddashboard&media=https%3A%2F%2F3.bp.blogspot.com%2F-5vtfsEyg_sQ%2FVdOXHzs0kII%2FAAAAAAAAVEc%2Fbbj6ezjOHvs%2Fs1600%2FHyatt2.jpg&xm=h&xv=sa1.37.01&xuid=dX6RwofnU0if&description=" style="background-color: transparent; background-image: url(data:image/png; border: none; cursor: pointer; display: none; height: 20px; left: 42px; opacity: 0.85; position: absolute; top: 33214px; width: 40px; z-index: 8675309;"></a><a href="http://www.pinterest.com/pin/create/extension/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.blogger.com%2Fblogger.g%3FblogID%3D19447173%23editor%2Fsrc%3Ddashboard&media=https%3A%2F%2F3.bp.blogspot.com%2F-5vtfsEyg_sQ%2FVdOXHzs0kII%2FAAAAAAAAVEc%2Fbbj6ezjOHvs%2Fs1600%2FHyatt2.jpg&xm=h&xv=sa1.37.01&xuid=dX6RwofnU0if&description=" style="background-color: transparent; background-image: url(data:image/png; border: none; cursor: pointer; display: none; height: 20px; left: 42px; opacity: 0.85; position: absolute; top: 33214px; width: 40px; z-index: 8675309;"></a><a href="http://www.pinterest.com/pin/create/extension/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.blogger.com%2Fblogger.g%3FblogID%3D19447173%23editor%2Fsrc%3Ddashboard&media=https%3A%2F%2F3.bp.blogspot.com%2F-5vtfsEyg_sQ%2FVdOXHzs0kII%2FAAAAAAAAVEc%2Fbbj6ezjOHvs%2Fs1600%2FHyatt2.jpg&xm=h&xv=sa1.37.01&xuid=dX6RwofnU0if&description=" style="background-color: transparent; background-image: url(data:image/png; border: none; cursor: pointer; display: none; height: 20px; left: 42px; opacity: 0.85; position: absolute; top: 33214px; width: 40px; z-index: 8675309;"></a><a href="http://www.pinterest.com/pin/create/extension/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.blogger.com%2Fblogger.g%3FblogID%3D19447173%23editor%2Fsrc%3Ddashboard&media=https%3A%2F%2F3.bp.blogspot.com%2F-5vtfsEyg_sQ%2FVdOXHzs0kII%2FAAAAAAAAVEc%2Fbbj6ezjOHvs%2Fs1600%2FHyatt2.jpg&xm=h&xv=sa1.37.01&xuid=dX6RwofnU0if&description=" style="background-color: transparent; background-image: url(data:image/png; border: none; cursor: pointer; display: none; height: 20px; left: 42px; opacity: 0.85; position: absolute; top: 33214px; width: 40px; z-index: 8675309;"></a><a href="http://www.pinterest.com/pin/create/extension/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.blogger.com%2Fblogger.g%3FblogID%3D19447173%23editor%2Fsrc%3Ddashboard&media=https%3A%2F%2F3.bp.blogspot.com%2F-5vtfsEyg_sQ%2FVdOXHzs0kII%2FAAAAAAAAVEc%2Fbbj6ezjOHvs%2Fs1600%2FHyatt2.jpg&xm=h&xv=sa1.37.01&xuid=dX6RwofnU0if&description=" style="background-color: transparent; background-image: url(data:image/png; border: none; cursor: pointer; display: none; height: 20px; left: 42px; opacity: 0.85; position: absolute; top: 33214px; width: 40px; z-index: 8675309;"></a><a href="http://www.pinterest.com/pin/create/extension/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.blogger.com%2Fblogger.g%3FblogID%3D19447173%23editor%2Fsrc%3Ddashboard&media=https%3A%2F%2F3.bp.blogspot.com%2F-5vtfsEyg_sQ%2FVdOXHzs0kII%2FAAAAAAAAVEc%2Fbbj6ezjOHvs%2Fs1600%2FHyatt2.jpg&xm=h&xv=sa1.37.01&xuid=dX6RwofnU0if&description=" style="background-color: transparent; background-image: url(data:image/png; border: none; cursor: pointer; display: none; height: 20px; left: 42px; opacity: 0.85; position: absolute; top: 33214px; width: 40px; z-index: 8675309;"></a><a href="http://www.pinterest.com/pin/create/extension/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.blogger.com%2Fblogger.g%3FblogID%3D19447173%23editor%2Fsrc%3Ddashboard&media=https%3A%2F%2F3.bp.blogspot.com%2F-5vtfsEyg_sQ%2FVdOXHzs0kII%2FAAAAAAAAVEc%2Fbbj6ezjOHvs%2Fs1600%2FHyatt2.jpg&xm=h&xv=sa1.37.01&xuid=dX6RwofnU0if&description=" style="background-color: transparent; background-image: url(data:image/png; border: none; cursor: pointer; display: none; height: 20px; left: 42px; opacity: 0.85; position: absolute; top: 33214px; width: 40px; z-index: 8675309;"></a><a href="http://www.pinterest.com/pin/create/extension/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.blogger.com%2Fblogger.g%3FblogID%3D19447173%23editor%2Fsrc%3Ddashboard&media=https%3A%2F%2F3.bp.blogspot.com%2F-5vtfsEyg_sQ%2FVdOXHzs0kII%2FAAAAAAAAVEc%2Fbbj6ezjOHvs%2Fs1600%2FHyatt2.jpg&xm=h&xv=sa1.37.01&xuid=dX6RwofnU0if&description=" style="background-color: transparent; background-image: url(data:image/png; border: none; cursor: pointer; display: none; height: 20px; left: 42px; opacity: 0.85; position: absolute; top: 33214px; width: 40px; z-index: 8675309;"></a><a href="http://www.pinterest.com/pin/create/extension/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.blogger.com%2Fblogger.g%3FblogID%3D19447173%23editor%2Fsrc%3Ddashboard&media=https%3A%2F%2F3.bp.blogspot.com%2F-5vtfsEyg_sQ%2FVdOXHzs0kII%2FAAAAAAAAVEc%2Fbbj6ezjOHvs%2Fs1600%2FHyatt2.jpg&xm=h&xv=sa1.37.01&xuid=dX6RwofnU0if&description=" style="background-color: transparent; background-image: url(data:image/png; border: none; cursor: pointer; display: none; height: 20px; left: 42px; opacity: 0.85; position: absolute; top: 33214px; width: 40px; z-index: 8675309;"></a><a href="http://www.pinterest.com/pin/create/extension/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.blogger.com%2Fblogger.g%3FblogID%3D19447173%23editor%2Fsrc%3Ddashboard&media=https%3A%2F%2F3.bp.blogspot.com%2F-5vtfsEyg_sQ%2FVdOXHzs0kII%2FAAAAAAAAVEc%2Fbbj6ezjOHvs%2Fs1600%2FHyatt2.jpg&xm=h&xv=sa1.37.01&xuid=dX6RwofnU0if&description=" style="background-color: transparent; background-image: url(data:image/png; border: none; cursor: pointer; display: none; height: 20px; left: 42px; opacity: 0.85; position: absolute; top: 33214px; width: 40px; z-index: 8675309;"></a></div>
sophiewillocqhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14949085151032830398noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-19447173.post-40924700884624751612015-07-02T03:04:00.001+08:002015-07-02T03:04:55.856+08:00Chucks<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Took these pictures on a short walk around Frankfurt some time back!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Luckily it was summer (albeit still a bit chilly when the wind blows) as I've firmly established that I really prefer warm weather T_T I seem to get cold really easily! But on the flipside, I don't sweat that easily in warm weather either. Conclusion, I actually have always liked Singapore's climate.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-m1ltGp3LwVQ/VZQjPztG5GI/AAAAAAAAU6o/jDTsXPOcIp8/s1600/IMG_5695.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-m1ltGp3LwVQ/VZQjPztG5GI/AAAAAAAAU6o/jDTsXPOcIp8/s1600/IMG_5695.JPG" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Two ducks just casually chilling at a roadside cafe; there was no pond or lake within sight.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Wonder where they <strike>came</strike> waddled over from!</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-dcUVvTZzbdY/VZQjPyUS-yI/AAAAAAAAU6Q/OUbhHUBNa14/s1600/IMG_5720.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-dcUVvTZzbdY/VZQjPyUS-yI/AAAAAAAAU6Q/OUbhHUBNa14/s1600/IMG_5720.JPG" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
"London" Crop Top & Checkered Shirt c/o <a href="http://www.vodelle.com/">www.vodelle.com</a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
High-waist denim shorts from F21</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
My first! pair of high-cut sneakers from Converse; always stuck to low-cut ones previously</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Bag from Givenchy</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-NA8RJN7WiFs/VZQjXDu9sjI/AAAAAAAAU7E/u46VA7E5qs0/s1600/IMG_5722.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-NA8RJN7WiFs/VZQjXDu9sjI/AAAAAAAAU7E/u46VA7E5qs0/s1600/IMG_5722.JPG" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
An entrance to a train station... designed to look like a train carriage going into the ground!</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-8sfDC1feepo/VZQjRNZVdOI/AAAAAAAAU6s/o4v8LfyiiiM/s1600/IMG_5723.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-8sfDC1feepo/VZQjRNZVdOI/AAAAAAAAU6s/o4v8LfyiiiM/s1600/IMG_5723.JPG" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
LOL. Very likely to be true.</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Q-7PPloJ58s/VZQjR_r8AFI/AAAAAAAAU6Y/mkirt_zvfco/s1600/IMG_5724.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Q-7PPloJ58s/VZQjR_r8AFI/AAAAAAAAU6Y/mkirt_zvfco/s1600/IMG_5724.JPG" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-xSOn9JdMsKc/VZQjSwvBlQI/AAAAAAAAU6g/vVUzMlJTImQ/s1600/IMG_5727.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-xSOn9JdMsKc/VZQjSwvBlQI/AAAAAAAAU6g/vVUzMlJTImQ/s1600/IMG_5727.JPG" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Dinosaur figures outside the Senckenberg Natural History Museum!</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-jj-YS_v1J9U/VZQjTSUzR2I/AAAAAAAAU68/ArUnUhm-MhU/s1600/IMG_5728.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-jj-YS_v1J9U/VZQjTSUzR2I/AAAAAAAAU68/ArUnUhm-MhU/s1600/IMG_5728.JPG" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-DU78Z_MKq3w/VZQjUBRP-5I/AAAAAAAAU60/ZPSauzO0fiU/s1600/IMG_5736.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-DU78Z_MKq3w/VZQjUBRP-5I/AAAAAAAAU60/ZPSauzO0fiU/s1600/IMG_5736.JPG" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-4RUKbu-kKPo/VZQjUxXoSeI/AAAAAAAAU64/i8vwlQ5G8o0/s1600/IMG_5748.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-4RUKbu-kKPo/VZQjUxXoSeI/AAAAAAAAU64/i8vwlQ5G8o0/s1600/IMG_5748.JPG" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-YqeMdwsvck8/VZQymT04XzI/AAAAAAAAU7U/i3fGYnF93nE/s1600/IMG_5753.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-YqeMdwsvck8/VZQymT04XzI/AAAAAAAAU7U/i3fGYnF93nE/s1600/IMG_5753.JPG" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-IFObKQJ1BGw/VZQymVt8TCI/AAAAAAAAU7Y/jsGq6TDudWk/s1600/IMG_5754.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-IFObKQJ1BGw/VZQymVt8TCI/AAAAAAAAU7Y/jsGq6TDudWk/s1600/IMG_5754.JPG" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-I76a2d_mqW8/VZQymIK6aVI/AAAAAAAAU7Q/L0LCXXczotk/s1600/IMG_5760.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-I76a2d_mqW8/VZQymIK6aVI/AAAAAAAAU7Q/L0LCXXczotk/s1600/IMG_5760.JPG" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-W33hYQHy9Xo/VZQynA-NQ1I/AAAAAAAAU7k/gSqJ1gGEPRE/s1600/IMG_5763.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-W33hYQHy9Xo/VZQynA-NQ1I/AAAAAAAAU7k/gSqJ1gGEPRE/s1600/IMG_5763.JPG" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-L8jomw-aOik/VZQynvzsvpI/AAAAAAAAU7s/Wn4hqWLTfXM/s1600/IMG_5773.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-L8jomw-aOik/VZQynvzsvpI/AAAAAAAAU7s/Wn4hqWLTfXM/s1600/IMG_5773.JPG" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-AmFCMYt2t_c/VZQynizkyII/AAAAAAAAU70/uWkbb6AtuvQ/s1600/IMG_5776.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-AmFCMYt2t_c/VZQynizkyII/AAAAAAAAU70/uWkbb6AtuvQ/s1600/IMG_5776.JPG" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
When in Germany... eat Movenpick yoghurt. I'm normally not a huge yoghurt person (nor ice-cream, for that matter) but I have to say these Movenpick yoghurts are pretty good! It's no wonder I see some girls buying these back by the dozens... for myself I only brought back a handful.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Vodelle is an online boutique located in Malaysia!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.vodelle.com/">www.vodelle.com</a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
They're operational 24/7, Monday through Sunday.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Shipping within Malaysia is free! International shipping to Singapore costs RM15 (approx S$5+) on orders below RM120 & is free on orders above RM120! They also ship worldwide to any destination.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
You can also find them on Instagram here: <a href="https://instagram.com/vodelle/">@vodelle</a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<a href="http://www.pinterest.com/pin/create/extension/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.blogger.com%2Fblogger.g%3FblogID%3D19447173%23editor%2Fsrc%3Ddashboard&media=https%3A%2F%2F4.bp.blogspot.com%2F-AmFCMYt2t_c%2FVZQynizkyII%2FAAAAAAAAU70%2FuWkbb6AtuvQ%2Fs1600%2FIMG_5776.JPG&xm=h&xv=sa1.36&xuid=dX6RwofnU0if&description=" style="background-color: transparent; background-image: url(data:image/png; border: none; cursor: pointer; display: none; height: 20px; left: 42px; opacity: 0.85; position: absolute; top: 7168px; width: 40px; z-index: 8675309;"></a><a href="http://www.pinterest.com/pin/create/extension/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.blogger.com%2Fblogger.g%3FblogID%3D19447173%23editor%2Fsrc%3Ddashboard&media=https%3A%2F%2F4.bp.blogspot.com%2F-AmFCMYt2t_c%2FVZQynizkyII%2FAAAAAAAAU70%2FuWkbb6AtuvQ%2Fs1600%2FIMG_5776.JPG&xm=h&xv=sa1.36&xuid=dX6RwofnU0if&description=" style="background-color: transparent; background-image: url(data:image/png; border: none; cursor: pointer; display: none; height: 20px; left: 42px; opacity: 0.85; position: absolute; top: 7168px; width: 40px; z-index: 8675309;"></a><a href="http://www.pinterest.com/pin/create/extension/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.blogger.com%2Fblogger.g%3FblogID%3D19447173%23editor%2Fsrc%3Ddashboard&media=https%3A%2F%2F4.bp.blogspot.com%2F-AmFCMYt2t_c%2FVZQynizkyII%2FAAAAAAAAU70%2FuWkbb6AtuvQ%2Fs1600%2FIMG_5776.JPG&xm=h&xv=sa1.36&xuid=dX6RwofnU0if&description=" style="background-color: transparent; background-image: url(data:image/png; border: none; cursor: pointer; display: none; height: 20px; left: 42px; opacity: 0.85; position: absolute; top: 7168px; width: 40px; z-index: 8675309;"></a><a href="http://www.pinterest.com/pin/create/extension/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.blogger.com%2Fblogger.g%3FblogID%3D19447173%23editor%2Fsrc%3Ddashboard&media=https%3A%2F%2F4.bp.blogspot.com%2F-AmFCMYt2t_c%2FVZQynizkyII%2FAAAAAAAAU70%2FuWkbb6AtuvQ%2Fs1600%2FIMG_5776.JPG&xm=h&xv=sa1.36&xuid=dX6RwofnU0if&description=" style="background-color: transparent; background-image: url(data:image/png; border: none; cursor: pointer; display: none; height: 20px; left: 42px; opacity: 0.85; position: absolute; top: 7168px; width: 40px; z-index: 8675309;"></a></div>
sophiewillocqhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14949085151032830398noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-19447173.post-86451330971020423562015-06-23T18:29:00.000+08:002015-06-23T18:29:35.216+08:00Epi-LASIK (Part 2)<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Here's Part 2 of my Epi-LASIK experience, where you can guess it...</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<b>I've had Epi-LASIK done!!!!!</b></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
I'll be talking primarily about my experience before, during & after the procedure.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
For more technical details regarding the comparisons of LASIK, Epi-LASIK & ReLEx SMILE, you can refer to my <a href="http://www.sophiewillocq.com/2015/03/epi-lasik-part-1.html">Part 1 blogpost</a>!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
////</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
I had my Epi-LASIK done at <a href="http://www.clearvision.com.sg/">Clearvision Eye Clinic & LASIK Centre</a>!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
6 Nutmeg Road</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
S(228337)</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Contact: <b>+65 6100 2020</b> or email them at <b>doctor@clearvision.com.sg</b></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<b><br /></b></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Quote <b>"Sophie Willocq"</b> at the counter to get S$121 off your Epi-LASIK package!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
////</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
For starters, here's some pictures of me with lensless spectacle frames (I know, the irony) since I now no longer need prescription glasses or contact lens!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-0ctOLnYHOcc/VX-qiE0lUbI/AAAAAAAAU24/UHq5WqDj5TQ/s1600/SAM_4561.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-0ctOLnYHOcc/VX-qiE0lUbI/AAAAAAAAU24/UHq5WqDj5TQ/s1600/SAM_4561.JPG" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-a_x8naPDnmI/VX-qipuk0lI/AAAAAAAAU2c/-56-ANb6rTo/s1600/SAM_4565.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-a_x8naPDnmI/VX-qipuk0lI/AAAAAAAAU2c/-56-ANb6rTo/s1600/SAM_4565.JPG" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-tnEt2Igm-4Y/VX_XU1M6RKI/AAAAAAAAU40/oFQ9TU6U6JQ/s1600/SAM_4566.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-tnEt2Igm-4Y/VX_XU1M6RKI/AAAAAAAAU40/oFQ9TU6U6JQ/s1600/SAM_4566.JPG" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Let's face it, real prescription spectacles generally aren't always that flattering.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Especially for girls! I find some guys look pretty good/even better with glasses, but most girls want to be vain & wear contact lens (myself included), which can be tiring + costly.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Let me reinforce it again...</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<b>I DON'T NEED GLASSES ANYMORE!</b></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<b><br /></b></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<b>I HAVE PERFECT VISION!</b></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
*jumps for joy*</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
On to my actual experience!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-BCIAHu3aeB0/VX_c3NyNqLI/AAAAAAAAU5E/qvwyuvMlplM/s1600/lasik3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-BCIAHu3aeB0/VX_c3NyNqLI/AAAAAAAAU5E/qvwyuvMlplM/s1600/lasik3.jpg" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<b>// <i>before </i>//</b></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Assuming you've already gone for the consultation with Clearvision Eye Clinic & LASIK Centre & everything checked out fine, you can arrange your actual procedure anytime after! Your consultation results are valid for 6 months; thereafter it is highly recommended that you get a new test done to ensure you're still suitable for the procedure.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Once you decide on a suitable day (you will need about 5-7 days rest thereafter), you can easily arrange for it provided you give about 2 weeks' notice as they can be quite busy. Luckily the procedure is so short & simple that they can slot in many patients per day!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
You'll have to let your eyes rest for about a day or so (of course the longer the better).</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
This might be tough if you have work & so on, but it's for the better!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-BCIAHu3aeB0/VX_c3NyNqLI/AAAAAAAAU5E/qvwyuvMlplM/s1600/lasik3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-BCIAHu3aeB0/VX_c3NyNqLI/AAAAAAAAU5E/qvwyuvMlplM/s1600/lasik3.jpg" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<b>// <i>actual day</i> //</b></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
I actually had my Epi-LASIK done a mere few hours after touching down from a long flight, so I was quite tired but I figured I'd be sleeping a lot the next few days anyway. I don't suggest you follow what I did though lol. Recommended would be ample rest to avoid tired eyes!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
After arriving at the clinic, I went through a few more simple eye tests to make sure everything was ok. While sitting there I saw another young guy (accompanied by his friend, aww #bromance) going for his own surgery. Pop in & then pop out. All in a matter of minutes. Seemed simple enough!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
The doctor (Dr Tony Ho) wasn't available yet, so the clinic suggested we grab lunch first.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Luckily the clinic is in town, located just behind Lucky Plaza!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Finally it was my turn & I slipped on a typical hospital gown (but still wearing my own clothes underneath - I opted for a comfortable sundress that day) as well as shower cap.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-KPynrlK_wrM/VX_fqadQZuI/AAAAAAAAU5Q/Uq68hrEXNCs/s1600/unnamed.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-KPynrlK_wrM/VX_fqadQZuI/AAAAAAAAU5Q/Uq68hrEXNCs/s1600/unnamed.jpg" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
I had previously heard scary stories about how you can smell the laser burning your cornea & see it coming towards you etc etc... these were of course all with reference to LASIK, which involves actual <b>cutting</b> of your cornea; Epi-LASIK involves <b>no cutting</b> at all.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
In reality, it wasn't scary at all. All you see is blackness with a red dot in the centre & that's what you need to be focusing on for the laser to do its job (which is just reshaping the top layer of cornea).</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
It's done eye by eye. My left eye went first & it behaved very well - focused easily & the whole thing took barely a minute. Stared at the red dot, felt nothing at all & it was over.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
My right eye was a little more troublesome. I had problems staying focused on the red dot; not sure why, but it meant that it took slightly longer as I had to keep re-focusing & trying to stay on the red dot rather than let my stupid eye wander (got what to see, it's all black elsewhere). Still, all in all it was still a matter of minutes rather than one minute!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Immediately you open your eyes & you can see pretty clearly!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
I actually wasn't super surprised or anything; no sobbing with happiness or what not because it went pretty much as I had expected - quick & painless! Lol #neverenthusiastic</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Thereafter I was ushered into a dark room where the clinic helped to put my first eyedrops. In the beginning I had about 4-5 eyedrops to apply per day, which should be about 10-15 minutes apart.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
This meant that I was there in the room for about another hour as they have to wait in between eyedrops. But time flies, as by this point the discomfort starts to set in & that's all I'm focusing on.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-UvOnnnGFUM0/VX_OuuCfb2I/AAAAAAAAU4g/K8T-uickj7Q/s1600/SAM_4573.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-UvOnnnGFUM0/VX_OuuCfb2I/AAAAAAAAU4g/K8T-uickj7Q/s1600/SAM_4573.JPG" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Some of my eyedrops & eyelid wipes! </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
It's very important to keep your eye area clean to avoid infection.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Things to note for the actual day:</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<b>#1</b> This should be evident, but no makeup. You will be tearing anyway.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<b>#2</b> Bring a sweater! Waiting around can get chilly & you'll want to be feeling snuggly.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<b>#3</b> You absolutely need somebody with you as you can't get home alone!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
The eyedrops are meant to be taken about every 3-4 hours, but if you're sleeping during this time you should miss the slot! No need to set alarms or what not, as rest is the most important for your eyes.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-BCIAHu3aeB0/VX_c3NyNqLI/AAAAAAAAU5I/saR9ymU-XUA/s1600/lasik3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-BCIAHu3aeB0/VX_c3NyNqLI/AAAAAAAAU5I/saR9ymU-XUA/s1600/lasik3.jpg" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
// <i style="font-weight: bold;">post-surgery</i> //</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
I won't lie, Day 2 was the worst. On Day 1 (actual day) there was some discomfort but it was alright.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
On Day 2, the discomfort was the worst. I can't call it painful per se, because it's not, but it was just really uncomfortable regardless of whether your eyes are open or closed. I was like a vampire; I stayed in a dark bedroom all day & slept about 18 hours or so... primarily because my eyes felt tired all the time, but also because there's nothing else I could do.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Day 3 was still uncomfortable, but slightly better & I also had my first follow-up visit with the doctor that day so I had no choice but to drag myself out of my dark sanctuary! T_T I actually went out wearing a giant black floppy hat & the post-surgery sunglasses. I must have looked majorly in mourning but I really had to avoid sunlight at all costs because it bothered me a lot!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
** P.S. I must point out that for many of my friends who went through LASIK/Epi-LASIK/ReLEx SMILE, they did not have as bad a reaction as I did. My friend Daphne for example, was able to watch dramas on her laptop with no issues, whereas I couldn't do anything. Once again, NOT recommended as your eyes are supposed to rest! Just to share that the resulting experiences will differ & I got a "worse" one so I hope you will be luckier than I am! **</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Also, the good news was that the doctor told me my eyes were healing very fast - much faster than most people! At Day 3 my eyes were about 60% healed, whereas most people are maybe only at 40%. So I took my higher level of discomfort as a good sign of healing! It's like... you know how wounds can be super itchy? It means it's healing! So I guess it can be the same for eyes too?</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Anyway here's what the post-surgery sunglasses look like:</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-pOhTDC4oHOc/VX_OugeFGWI/AAAAAAAAU4I/uxEwvj-mT_Y/s1600/SAM_4590.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-pOhTDC4oHOc/VX_OugeFGWI/AAAAAAAAU4I/uxEwvj-mT_Y/s1600/SAM_4590.JPG" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-fYGzkoM00jM/VX_OuieEBoI/AAAAAAAAU4Q/mYwYKoWf4cM/s1600/SAM_4591.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-fYGzkoM00jM/VX_OuieEBoI/AAAAAAAAU4Q/mYwYKoWf4cM/s1600/SAM_4591.JPG" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ASrA1fSypCk/VX_OvvZw80I/AAAAAAAAU4Y/Q6j1kSPDBi4/s1600/SAM_4592.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ASrA1fSypCk/VX_OvvZw80I/AAAAAAAAU4Y/Q6j1kSPDBi4/s1600/SAM_4592.JPG" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
LOL not fashionable at all but they block out A LOT of light. I even slept with them on!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
They were basically my best friend those few days.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
By Day 4 onwards I was much, much better. Just overnight & the difference is huge!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
I was ok to go out again (just remember to avoid dusty places) & could FINALLY USE MY PHONE.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
LOLOL. The one & only proven way thus far for me to not use my phone.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
I literally didn't touch it for a few days as I was unable to see properly!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-BCIAHu3aeB0/VX_c3NyNqLI/AAAAAAAAU5I/saR9ymU-XUA/s1600/lasik3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-BCIAHu3aeB0/VX_c3NyNqLI/AAAAAAAAU5I/saR9ymU-XUA/s1600/lasik3.jpg" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Things to note:</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<b>#1</b> No rubbing of your eyes, especially for the first week</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<b>#2</b> No eye makeup for the first 5 days! *gasp*</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<b>#3</b> Avoid dusty or crowded places for the first week</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<b>#4</b> Avoid any vigorous sports/activities, especially swimming, as water must not get into your eyes</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Most people are ok to go back to work after 5 days (you will be given MC) but it's up to you.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
I personally didn't wear any makeup for 6 days.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Find out more about Epi-LASIK at their website!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
(Click image below to be redirected)</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.clearvision.com.sg/epi_lasik/"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-DtZKMSPVlbY/VX_Ov3pEF7I/AAAAAAAAU4o/u47Ke_j4oL0/s1600/lasik1.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Here are price comparisons again for your reference:</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
LASIK - ranges from $2364 (SNEC) to $2888 (Shinagawa)</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Epi-LASIK - ranges from $3388 (Clearvision) to $3600 (SNEC)</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
ReLEx SMILE - ranges from $4376 (SNEC) to $5289 (LASIK Surgery)</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
But honestly, under no circumstances should you still go for LASIK. To put it bluntly, it's a rather outdated correction method & Epi-LASIK has many more benefits + fewer risks!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Find out if you're suitable for Epi-LASIK by giving them a call at <b>+65 6100 2020</b> or email them at <b>doctor@clearvision.com.sg</b>. Website: <a href="http://www.clearvision.com.sg/">www.clearvision.com.sg</a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Clearvision Eye Clinic & LASIK Centre</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
6 Nutmeg RoadS(228337)</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Quote <b>"Sophie Willocq"</b> at the counter to get S$121 off your Epi-LASIK package!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
The whole recovery period takes up to 6 months for your vision to fully stabilise, but your vision will be pretty clear within the first few days. It won't be perfect then yet, but you won't need any spectacles or lenses & will be able to see sufficiently well with no issues!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-l-BvW3Qe3qM/VX_OwHkR0rI/AAAAAAAAU4k/JXKzSCXFkuM/s1600/lasik2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-l-BvW3Qe3qM/VX_OwHkR0rI/AAAAAAAAU4k/JXKzSCXFkuM/s1600/lasik2.jpg" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
In the meantime... more selfies with fake spectacles!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<a href="http://www.pinterest.com/pin/create/extension/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.blogger.com%2Fblogger.g%3FblogID%3D19447173%23editor%2Fsrc%3Ddashboard&media=https%3A%2F%2F3.bp.blogspot.com%2F-0ctOLnYHOcc%2FVX-qiE0lUbI%2FAAAAAAAAU24%2FUHq5WqDj5TQ%2Fs320%2FSAM_4561.JPG&xm=h&xv=sa1.35&description=" style="background-color: transparent; background-image: url(data:image/png; border: none; cursor: pointer; display: none; height: 20px; left: 193px; opacity: 0.85; position: absolute; top: 252px; width: 40px; z-index: 8675309;"></a><a href="http://www.pinterest.com/pin/create/extension/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.blogger.com%2Fblogger.g%3FblogID%3D19447173%23editor%2Fsrc%3Ddashboard&media=https%3A%2F%2F3.bp.blogspot.com%2F-0ctOLnYHOcc%2FVX-qiE0lUbI%2FAAAAAAAAU24%2FUHq5WqDj5TQ%2Fs320%2FSAM_4561.JPG&xm=h&xv=sa1.35&description=" style="background-color: transparent; background-image: url(data:image/png; border: none; cursor: pointer; display: none; height: 20px; left: 193px; opacity: 0.85; position: absolute; top: 252px; width: 40px; z-index: 8675309;"></a><a href="http://www.pinterest.com/pin/create/extension/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.blogger.com%2Fblogger.g%3FblogID%3D19447173%23editor%2Fsrc%3Ddashboard&media=https%3A%2F%2F3.bp.blogspot.com%2F-0ctOLnYHOcc%2FVX-qiE0lUbI%2FAAAAAAAAU24%2FUHq5WqDj5TQ%2Fs320%2FSAM_4561.JPG&xm=h&xv=sa1.35&description=" style="background-color: transparent; background-image: url(data:image/png; border: none; cursor: pointer; display: none; height: 20px; left: 193px; opacity: 0.85; position: absolute; top: 252px; width: 40px; z-index: 8675309;"></a><a href="http://www.pinterest.com/pin/create/extension/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.blogger.com%2Fblogger.g%3FblogID%3D19447173%23editor%2Fsrc%3Ddashboard&media=https%3A%2F%2F3.bp.blogspot.com%2F-0ctOLnYHOcc%2FVX-qiE0lUbI%2FAAAAAAAAU24%2FUHq5WqDj5TQ%2Fs320%2FSAM_4561.JPG&xm=h&xv=sa1.35&description=" style="background-color: transparent; background-image: url(data:image/png; border: none; cursor: pointer; display: none; height: 20px; left: 193px; opacity: 0.85; position: absolute; top: 252px; width: 40px; z-index: 8675309;"></a><a href="http://www.pinterest.com/pin/create/extension/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.blogger.com%2Fblogger.g%3FblogID%3D19447173%23editor%2Fsrc%3Ddashboard&media=https%3A%2F%2F3.bp.blogspot.com%2F-0ctOLnYHOcc%2FVX-qiE0lUbI%2FAAAAAAAAU24%2FUHq5WqDj5TQ%2Fs320%2FSAM_4561.JPG&xm=h&xv=sa1.35&description=" style="background-color: transparent; background-image: url(data:image/png; border: none; cursor: pointer; display: none; height: 20px; left: 193px; opacity: 0.85; position: absolute; top: 252px; width: 40px; z-index: 8675309;"></a><a href="http://www.pinterest.com/pin/create/extension/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.blogger.com%2Fblogger.g%3FblogID%3D19447173%23editor%2Fsrc%3Ddashboard&media=https%3A%2F%2F3.bp.blogspot.com%2F-0ctOLnYHOcc%2FVX-qiE0lUbI%2FAAAAAAAAU24%2FUHq5WqDj5TQ%2Fs320%2FSAM_4561.JPG&xm=h&xv=sa1.35&description=" style="background-color: transparent; background-image: url(data:image/png; border: none; cursor: pointer; display: none; height: 20px; left: 193px; opacity: 0.85; position: absolute; top: 252px; width: 40px; z-index: 8675309;"></a></div>
sophiewillocqhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14949085151032830398noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-19447173.post-43185447838156207282015-06-16T13:43:00.001+08:002015-06-16T13:43:10.782+08:00Yutaki's Gossip Girl 27th Birthday<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Met up with the whole bunch in May for our usual annual event... Yutaki's birthday!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
For most adults (FML yes I am one now) birthdays aren't really a big thing anymore & in fact we probably don't want to be reminded that we're growing old(er) haha. I myself haven't bothered about my birthday in ages since hitting my teen years. I did the cursory 21st birthday, but for the rest most of the time I just did a simple dinner with friends. And there was even a year (my 23rd) where I spent my birthday alone at home watching sitcoms. LOL. I don't know whether that's pathetic, but I was genuinely not bothered by it.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Yutaki is absolutely not one of those people!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
He LOVES birthdays & loves presents, both giving & receiving them.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Every year we know to expect a birthday celebration & he generally starts talking about it a few months beforehand haha. This year I even applied for leave from work to make sure I could attend.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Anyhow, the theme for this year was...</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<b>GOSSIP GIRL!</b></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Can I admit something here?</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
I've never watched Gossip Girl.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Yes, despite it being like, one of THE most popular sitcoms.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
(Should this be where I also admit I have never watched Friends?)</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
I mean I watched the very, very first episode, the one where Serena is back in town & Blair knows her It Girl status is threatened because everyone was so excited about her return. And I dunno... it just seemed like the rest was going to be quite predictable. But P.S. based on that one episode alone, I'm Team Blair haha. Just like how I'm Team Veronica when it comes to Archie Comics. Does resenting the popular, super-loved blonde girl make me a sourpuss?</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-XIkFkXQq0AA/VX-qctcbS4I/AAAAAAAAU08/d0UC_pEu5R8/s1600/SAM_4481.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-XIkFkXQq0AA/VX-qctcbS4I/AAAAAAAAU08/d0UC_pEu5R8/s1600/SAM_4481.JPG" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-kp5YRac4O7M/VX-qdjXpl0I/AAAAAAAAU1s/8ou0l3RIu3A/s1600/SAM_4506.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-kp5YRac4O7M/VX-qdjXpl0I/AAAAAAAAU1s/8ou0l3RIu3A/s1600/SAM_4506.JPG" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
The giant heart-shaped strawberry cake was bought by Miyake from Ritz Apple Strudel!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
I've always liked their apple strudels & never knew they did cakes like these.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
It was very yummy & despite the sheer size of it, we actually managed to finish the whole thing.</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-i-B9Q5efMl4/VX-qfUXM_6I/AAAAAAAAU1o/tv4Hc5_tFHE/s1600/SAM_4545.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-i-B9Q5efMl4/VX-qfUXM_6I/AAAAAAAAU1o/tv4Hc5_tFHE/s1600/SAM_4545.JPG" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
This car license plate thing was purchased by Qiuting! The blinged Swarovski Yutaki powerbank in the background is another year's birthday gift made by Wendy!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
And the black Y T K block letters were purchased by me (from Typo) for... Christmas I think?</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
I didn't even realise till typing this out that there were so many various items gifted by all of us individually over time!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
As for this year's present... spot the new Olympus camera! Shared gift by the bunch of us after he remarked that he liked the pictures taken on it when he tested it out.</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Q3ACPxeeJXQ/VX-qgEEkwRI/AAAAAAAAU2I/x7MsYdwqU_c/s1600/SAM_4549.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Q3ACPxeeJXQ/VX-qgEEkwRI/AAAAAAAAU2I/x7MsYdwqU_c/s1600/SAM_4549.JPG" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-5Hzbo1DVqYc/VX-qc6FspPI/AAAAAAAAU1E/8gPXWhUag5Q/s1600/SAM_4496.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-5Hzbo1DVqYc/VX-qc6FspPI/AAAAAAAAU1E/8gPXWhUag5Q/s1600/SAM_4496.JPG" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
#selfieking</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-eea54R8QppA/VX-qgYl-zNI/AAAAAAAAU2s/D3hB7aXPWWc/s1600/SAM_4554.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-eea54R8QppA/VX-qgYl-zNI/AAAAAAAAU2s/D3hB7aXPWWc/s1600/SAM_4554.JPG" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-N6cINNuTCec/VX-qdlKSE_I/AAAAAAAAU1U/yH4C5IM25PQ/s1600/SAM_4523.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-N6cINNuTCec/VX-qdlKSE_I/AAAAAAAAU1U/yH4C5IM25PQ/s1600/SAM_4523.JPG" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
With my very own Sophie Coca-Cola can! I actually didn't purchase nor request this.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Even though I LOVEEEEEE Coca-Cola (if I had to pick my all-time favourite drink it would be that), I didn't see the point of getting a personalised one because... I will definitely end up wanting to drink it one day.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
So this can was actually acquired through Yutaki! I guess the concept is to "Share a Coke with"... your friends/loved ones, so Coca-Cola sent Yutaki cans of his, mine & Miyake's names.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
And that's how I got my own Coca-Cola can. Which is now gone.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Because I drank it.</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-4KwI5FGRuZE/VX-qeDwLbdI/AAAAAAAAU1Y/zBaWinQwA5k/s1600/SAM_4540.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-4KwI5FGRuZE/VX-qeDwLbdI/AAAAAAAAU1Y/zBaWinQwA5k/s1600/SAM_4540.JPG" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-1Be3FHZm2iI/VX-qfD90iwI/AAAAAAAAU10/xJC2Ns4pzNo/s1600/SAM_4543.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-1Be3FHZm2iI/VX-qfD90iwI/AAAAAAAAU10/xJC2Ns4pzNo/s1600/SAM_4543.JPG" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
I brought 2 pairs of spectacle frames that day haha.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
I would never wear my actual prescription lens frames because they're not cool anymore LOL.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
So the first one above was squarish & the below one is completely round!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Looks a bit Harry Potter-ish. I actually requested Yutaki draw a lightning bolt on our Polaroids.</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-rIt4v0a8Pkk/VX-w6xpx_aI/AAAAAAAAU3s/zUnu3xgvq50/s1600/SAM_4556.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-rIt4v0a8Pkk/VX-w6xpx_aI/AAAAAAAAU3s/zUnu3xgvq50/s1600/SAM_4556.JPG" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-_ibppezm7P0/VX-qhZVF-6I/AAAAAAAAU2M/hJhqsiwXR58/s1600/SAM_4557.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-_ibppezm7P0/VX-qhZVF-6I/AAAAAAAAU2M/hJhqsiwXR58/s1600/SAM_4557.JPG" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-YGMO6He8toE/VX-qh2AFOhI/AAAAAAAAU2U/2DrbyEVyDBc/s1600/SAM_4560.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-YGMO6He8toE/VX-qh2AFOhI/AAAAAAAAU2U/2DrbyEVyDBc/s1600/SAM_4560.JPG" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ncr0F0ZzbMk/VX-qkSJQXfI/AAAAAAAAU3Y/0KpC_0xr1WE/s1600/SAM_4568.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ncr0F0ZzbMk/VX-qkSJQXfI/AAAAAAAAU3Y/0KpC_0xr1WE/s1600/SAM_4568.JPG" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Group Polaroids!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
In attendance that day - Wendy, Qiuting, Yutaki, Rykiel, Miyake & I. Shuyin couldn't make it!</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Y-EhFf2rMcs/VX-qltjZy0I/AAAAAAAAU3g/BK-mLA9abAs/s1600/SAM_4571.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Y-EhFf2rMcs/VX-qltjZy0I/AAAAAAAAU3g/BK-mLA9abAs/s1600/SAM_4571.JPG" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-vl8hioXE0k8/VX-qk5NQ4dI/AAAAAAAAU3Q/3pTzUW3Hc-o/s1600/SAM_4570.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-vl8hioXE0k8/VX-qk5NQ4dI/AAAAAAAAU3Q/3pTzUW3Hc-o/s1600/SAM_4570.JPG" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Some NGs lol.</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-NC8XjKTTIac/VX-qktR0I2I/AAAAAAAAU3A/h4kjug4RaiE/s1600/SAM_4569.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-NC8XjKTTIac/VX-qktR0I2I/AAAAAAAAU3A/h4kjug4RaiE/s1600/SAM_4569.JPG" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-wSg0KVhx_rQ/VX-qjfR6f6I/AAAAAAAAU3E/yAUyLyE3bJg/s1600/SAM_4567.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-wSg0KVhx_rQ/VX-qjfR6f6I/AAAAAAAAU3E/yAUyLyE3bJg/s1600/SAM_4567.JPG" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
////</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<b><i>To Prince Yutaki James:</i></b></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<b><i><br /></i></b></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Happy Birthday!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Ok your birthday was last month, but we're both experts in backdated blogposts so you know how it goes lololol. I don't even remember when we became close friends because time has just really flown by omgggg. I am now entering my mid-twenties wtf. But thankfully you will always be 2 years ahead & 2 years older HAHA.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
It was a very unexpected friendship that blossomed between us & I'm thankful to be able to count you as one of my closest friends, the one person I know I can count on to tell my secrets & problems to, to never be judged & to always be able to rely on your loyalty & support.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
For all the online lurkers that have never met him, you might not know that Yutaki is one of the most effervescent people you can come across. He is super outgoing, super friendly, super light-hearted & incredibly easy to get along with. He lifts the mood of any room he enters & can bring smiles to anyone's face. And away from all that, he is also one of the most loyal friends a girl could ever have.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
To the rose among all the thorns, I wish you all the love in the world because I know you have so much of it to give back. Here's to your happiness & success as we slowly grow old together.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<b><i>Love,</i></b></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<b><i>Sophie.</i></b></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
////</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
As for the Gossip Girl theme, we all came dressed in schoolgirl outfits!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
I actually still had my old JC uniforms but they looked super uncool LOL.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
And I figured everyone would be wearing a white shirt so I picked a dusty pink one, matched with my mom's knitted A-line skirt, one of Yutaki's zillion ties & my white sneakers.</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Yutaki made a full yearbook-themed blogpost for the theme!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-nvODS9JqkiM/VX-qbq6NsfI/AAAAAAAAU1A/WXEdLNaxthA/s1600/6.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-nvODS9JqkiM/VX-qbq6NsfI/AAAAAAAAU1A/WXEdLNaxthA/s1600/6.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-iM9FX-M5DcE/VX-qbotov_I/AAAAAAAAU00/uQWnWPEGV2c/s1600/7.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-iM9FX-M5DcE/VX-qbotov_I/AAAAAAAAU00/uQWnWPEGV2c/s1600/7.jpg" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
GUESS WHO HE MADE CLASS VALEDICTORIAN?</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
LOLOL #cheaptrill</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-RLpF6vA4cR0/VX-qbj7GukI/AAAAAAAAU1Q/C6bzRaYJDZY/s1600/18.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-RLpF6vA4cR0/VX-qbj7GukI/AAAAAAAAU1Q/C6bzRaYJDZY/s1600/18.jpg" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
For the full blogpost, go see his blog!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
He edited the pictures super well & added lots of graphics. Super cute & well-done, I love it!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<b><a href="http://www.yutakis.com/yutakis-27th-celebration-year-book"><span style="font-size: large;">www.yutakis.com/yutakis-27th-celebration-year-book</span></a></b></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
And to end off the night... we were playing the board game version of Draw Something!</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Lx0xOlPOi-o/VX-qmMgWI5I/AAAAAAAAU3c/JLIhp8tjQJ8/s1600/SAM_4572.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Lx0xOlPOi-o/VX-qmMgWI5I/AAAAAAAAU3c/JLIhp8tjQJ8/s1600/SAM_4572.JPG" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
On the left is Yutaki's drawing of Lady Gaga, my ribcage in the middle & rust on the right.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
I think Wendy won in the end but she & I were tied all the way lol #soreloser.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Miyake is a terrible drawer but I managed to guess her bad drawings anyway haha.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
It's a pretty fun game!</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
So I guess that's about it! I'm actually thinking of doing something for my birthday this year (I turn 25) simply because I haven't celebrated it in years. But it's already June & I'm getting lazy to plan...</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
x</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<a href="http://www.pinterest.com/pin/create/extension/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.blogger.com%2Fblogger.g%3FblogID%3D19447173%23editor%2Fsrc%3Ddashboard&media=https%3A%2F%2F4.bp.blogspot.com%2F-Lx0xOlPOi-o%2FVX-qmMgWI5I%2FAAAAAAAAU3c%2FJLIhp8tjQJ8%2Fs1600%2FSAM_4572.JPG&xm=h&xv=sa1.35&description=" style="background-color: transparent; background-image: url(data:image/png; border: none; cursor: pointer; display: none; height: 20px; left: 42px; opacity: 0.85; position: absolute; top: 14362px; width: 40px; z-index: 8675309;"></a><a href="http://www.pinterest.com/pin/create/extension/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.blogger.com%2Fblogger.g%3FblogID%3D19447173%23editor%2Fsrc%3Ddashboard&media=https%3A%2F%2F4.bp.blogspot.com%2F-Lx0xOlPOi-o%2FVX-qmMgWI5I%2FAAAAAAAAU3c%2FJLIhp8tjQJ8%2Fs1600%2FSAM_4572.JPG&xm=h&xv=sa1.35&description=" style="background-color: transparent; background-image: url(data:image/png; border: none; cursor: pointer; display: none; height: 20px; left: 42px; opacity: 0.85; position: absolute; top: 14362px; width: 40px; z-index: 8675309;"></a><a href="http://www.pinterest.com/pin/create/extension/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.blogger.com%2Fblogger.g%3FblogID%3D19447173%23editor%2Fsrc%3Ddashboard&media=https%3A%2F%2F4.bp.blogspot.com%2F-Lx0xOlPOi-o%2FVX-qmMgWI5I%2FAAAAAAAAU3c%2FJLIhp8tjQJ8%2Fs1600%2FSAM_4572.JPG&xm=h&xv=sa1.35&description=" style="background-color: transparent; background-image: url(data:image/png; border: none; cursor: pointer; display: none; height: 20px; left: 42px; opacity: 0.85; position: absolute; top: 14362px; width: 40px; z-index: 8675309;"></a><a href="http://www.pinterest.com/pin/create/extension/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.blogger.com%2Fblogger.g%3FblogID%3D19447173%23editor%2Fsrc%3Ddashboard&media=https%3A%2F%2F4.bp.blogspot.com%2F-Lx0xOlPOi-o%2FVX-qmMgWI5I%2FAAAAAAAAU3c%2FJLIhp8tjQJ8%2Fs1600%2FSAM_4572.JPG&xm=h&xv=sa1.35&description=" style="background-color: transparent; background-image: url(data:image/png; border: none; cursor: pointer; display: none; height: 20px; left: 42px; opacity: 0.85; position: absolute; top: 14362px; width: 40px; z-index: 8675309;"></a></div>
sophiewillocqhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14949085151032830398noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-19447173.post-78873637421130363232015-05-17T13:09:00.002+08:002015-05-17T13:09:47.389+08:00Norway - Nights out<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Continuation from my previous post on Norway's fjords!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
I was in Stavanger over the weekend, so <a href="https://www.vivaleng.blogspot.com/">Vivaleng</a> brought me out!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Got to try this Scandinavian thing called <i>snus</i>, which is basically like a tobacco pouch.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
It's banned in the EU, but still very popular in countries like Sweden & Norway.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
You stick it under your lip & the tobacco gets absorbed into your bloodstream that way.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
In a way it's sort of like smoking & it's no wonder I saw a couple of Scandinavian guys using it on my flight home, since you can't smoke on planes but with snus you get the same sort of effect.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Anyhow you can use it for varying amounts of time, ranging from like, 5 minutes for the first time to 30 minutes or whatever for regular users. It stains your teeth pretty yellow though, noticed that among the male friends Vivaleng introduced me to.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-vIaU1h82xWg/VVgdE9je7yI/AAAAAAAAUyU/QWU4aRm-cBc/s1600/CIMG1961.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-vIaU1h82xWg/VVgdE9je7yI/AAAAAAAAUyU/QWU4aRm-cBc/s1600/CIMG1961.JPG" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
So I stuck it under my lip & didn't feel anything for quite a bit so I just left it there for 20 minutes or something & then the effect hit me suddenly & I wound up vomitting in the toilet lol.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
It's nothing like the alcohol sort of nausea if that's what you're thinking. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
You're perfectly lucid & sober. Just felt sick because it was too long for my first time!</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-PHQPHk_5ukE/VVgdGbbwRHI/AAAAAAAAUyc/8MciEiKvzv4/s1600/CIMG1964.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-PHQPHk_5ukE/VVgdGbbwRHI/AAAAAAAAUyc/8MciEiKvzv4/s1600/CIMG1964.JPG" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-QIGwlSWQ-rE/VVgdGn4YHqI/AAAAAAAAUyg/aFLXz9emUcI/s1600/CIMG1986.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-QIGwlSWQ-rE/VVgdGn4YHqI/AAAAAAAAUyg/aFLXz9emUcI/s1600/CIMG1986.JPG" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
#wildchild</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
And also, #thepictureyoutakebeforeyouloseyourphone</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Okay she didn't lose her phone but it looks like a very possible scenario.</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-h6dEhVLK0mM/VVgdIE_R27I/AAAAAAAAUys/9Tr-2PLbDs0/s1600/CIMG1991.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-h6dEhVLK0mM/VVgdIE_R27I/AAAAAAAAUys/9Tr-2PLbDs0/s1600/CIMG1991.JPG" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-71eYnEn9CjQ/VVgdJJ5I3mI/AAAAAAAAUy0/QmPFSyU_atc/s1600/CIMG1992.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-71eYnEn9CjQ/VVgdJJ5I3mI/AAAAAAAAUy0/QmPFSyU_atc/s1600/CIMG1992.JPG" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-xk0ftSD3X_w/VVgdKaqlWxI/AAAAAAAAUy8/Fw_0X6e21P4/s1600/CIMG1993.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-xk0ftSD3X_w/VVgdKaqlWxI/AAAAAAAAUy8/Fw_0X6e21P4/s1600/CIMG1993.JPG" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-iJ4-Hw5lsJQ/VVgdMb9PwrI/AAAAAAAAUzE/GAC61keIqRY/s1600/CIMG1995.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-iJ4-Hw5lsJQ/VVgdMb9PwrI/AAAAAAAAUzE/GAC61keIqRY/s1600/CIMG1995.JPG" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-rxz9JrhiWks/VVgdMpYZ1PI/AAAAAAAAUzI/g_i6lNTdEks/s1600/CIMG2001.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-rxz9JrhiWks/VVgdMpYZ1PI/AAAAAAAAUzI/g_i6lNTdEks/s1600/CIMG2001.JPG" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
2012 >> fresh-faced 22 year old.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
What hasn't changed:</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Still doing the twist in pictures (hello, I'm half Asian)</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Still have bangs (I demand that bangs be allowed in passport pictures)</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Still doing the semi-duck face pout in pictures</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
In fact, even my makeup is still the same.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
I think since I began using eyeliner (15 years old if I recall correctly) my makeup hasn't changed. Still concealer, eyeliner & lipstick. Eyeshadow & blush on more dressy occasions.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Alright, this means I'm FINALLY done with my 2012 winter Europe holiday posts!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
And...</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Can now move on to backdated 2013 posts LOL.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<a href="http://www.pinterest.com/pin/create/extension/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.blogger.com%2Fblogger.g%3FblogID%3D19447173%23editor%2Fsrc%3Dsidebar&media=https%3A%2F%2F3.bp.blogspot.com%2F-iJ4-Hw5lsJQ%2FVVgdMb9PwrI%2FAAAAAAAAUzE%2FGAC61keIqRY%2Fs1600%2FCIMG1995.JPG&xm=h&xv=sa1.35&description=" style="background-color: transparent; background-image: url(data:image/png; border: none; cursor: pointer; display: none; height: 20px; left: 42px; opacity: 0.85; position: absolute; top: 3708px; width: 40px; z-index: 8675309;"></a><a href="http://www.pinterest.com/pin/create/extension/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.blogger.com%2Fblogger.g%3FblogID%3D19447173%23editor%2Fsrc%3Dsidebar&media=https%3A%2F%2F3.bp.blogspot.com%2F-iJ4-Hw5lsJQ%2FVVgdMb9PwrI%2FAAAAAAAAUzE%2FGAC61keIqRY%2Fs1600%2FCIMG1995.JPG&xm=h&xv=sa1.35&description=" style="background-color: transparent; background-image: url(data:image/png; border: none; cursor: pointer; display: none; height: 20px; left: 42px; opacity: 0.85; position: absolute; top: 3708px; width: 40px; z-index: 8675309;"></a></div>
sophiewillocqhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14949085151032830398noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-19447173.post-53478986967748613682015-05-01T00:13:00.000+08:002015-05-01T00:13:21.533+08:00Norway - Fjords<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
OMG GUESS WHAT I ACTUALLY EDITED THESE PICTURES BUT FORGOT ABOUT THEM.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
MUST.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
BLOG.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
When I look at the massive amount of unedited, unseen pictures accumulating in my iPhotos... I... am super discouraged. LOL. And then I switch tabs to look at cat pictures on Facebook instead.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
And don't say no need to edit...</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Even resizing is editing!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Plus now virtually every single blogger is armed with a professional camera AND A PROFESSIONAL PHOTOGRAPHER (no, seriously, when did this become a thing? wtf).</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Note that these pictures below are still taken with my 2012 semipro.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Possibly why the quality is shit. Haha.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-JhFQQFsZCFw/VUJLVTtNSDI/AAAAAAAAUvA/eWoxR9is8CY/s1600/CIMG1907.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-JhFQQFsZCFw/VUJLVTtNSDI/AAAAAAAAUvA/eWoxR9is8CY/s1600/CIMG1907.JPG" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Say hi to <a href="http://vivaleng.blogspot.sg/">Vivaleng</a>.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Whom I actually hadn't met before. LOL.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Some of you might remember how we met... Online. I know when you say it like that it sounds like we were both trawling some lesbian dating site or something. But no, she was one of my blog readers haha. Does that mean I can call her my fan? Hahahaha. #notshy</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
So anyhow, she used to comment on my Formspring - one of the few non-anonymous ones, so I took note. I do start to remember names of people that reply to me a lot, so I noticed hers.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
She came to Singapore one time; we didn't meet up or anything. She simply came to say hi at a flea market I was at. In fact that was all, we said hi then that was pretty much it as it was really crowded.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Also, her voice reminded me SO much of a friend I used to be close to (and the friendship didn't end well) so I was really taken aback in a sorta unpleasant way.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
And basically that was that. A 5-second exchange & a few comments here there online.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-AnghKYF7POA/VUJLVWtXHNI/AAAAAAAAUu8/ArBaw6IcpsU/s1600/CIMG1910.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-AnghKYF7POA/VUJLVWtXHNI/AAAAAAAAUu8/ArBaw6IcpsU/s1600/CIMG1910.JPG" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Fast forward half a year or whatever, I'm planning my December 2012 winter holiday to Europe.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
I realise I have a few days with nothing planned.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
I decide to self-invite myself over to her town in Norway, Stavanger. LOL.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
It was really abrupt. I basically searched her on Facebook, added her as a friend (at least I did that haha) & sent her a message inviting myself over hahahahaha.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
So after spending Christmas with my family in Paris, I flew up to Stavanger for 3 days!</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-FuyMvRMGcRI/VUJLVSwtTvI/AAAAAAAAUu4/HNuTk8rzXkA/s1600/CIMG1914.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-FuyMvRMGcRI/VUJLVSwtTvI/AAAAAAAAUu4/HNuTk8rzXkA/s1600/CIMG1914.JPG" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
After being in Europe for 3 weeks I was terribly sick of being cold all the time.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
People in Singapore complain a lot about the weather but frankly I love it.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
I don't particularly enjoy the sun (ok I don't like the sun at all) but I much prefer warmth.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Y_YtZuqgTn8/VUJLWSm9xbI/AAAAAAAAUvE/2IQA38bmNYs/s1600/CIMG1915.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Y_YtZuqgTn8/VUJLWSm9xbI/AAAAAAAAUvE/2IQA38bmNYs/s1600/CIMG1915.JPG" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Notice the heart shaped dent in the rock? Vivaleng said couples like to get married here.</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ouswzbKuG-o/VUJLWrXNCpI/AAAAAAAAUvM/MUAgaBMaiy4/s1600/CIMG1917.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ouswzbKuG-o/VUJLWrXNCpI/AAAAAAAAUvM/MUAgaBMaiy4/s1600/CIMG1917.JPG" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-XhUKHzk8Av8/VUJLWw99lGI/AAAAAAAAUvI/lhnelilZwLc/s1600/CIMG1919.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-XhUKHzk8Av8/VUJLWw99lGI/AAAAAAAAUvI/lhnelilZwLc/s1600/CIMG1919.JPG" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-bOf-m7unKyM/VUJLX8FilxI/AAAAAAAAUvg/og-1Cfo_kio/s1600/CIMG1924.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-bOf-m7unKyM/VUJLX8FilxI/AAAAAAAAUvg/og-1Cfo_kio/s1600/CIMG1924.JPG" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-hK1MlVYRb-0/VUJLYKKSFTI/AAAAAAAAUvs/RlriLGHb84U/s1600/CIMG1928.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-hK1MlVYRb-0/VUJLYKKSFTI/AAAAAAAAUvs/RlriLGHb84U/s1600/CIMG1928.JPG" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-C5GWTfZrU3w/VUJLYookhfI/AAAAAAAAUv8/VBmH3bZKzU0/s1600/CIMG1932.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-C5GWTfZrU3w/VUJLYookhfI/AAAAAAAAUv8/VBmH3bZKzU0/s1600/CIMG1932.JPG" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-rFqSR-74Bec/VUJLZ4sXyAI/AAAAAAAAUvw/6k66w7izFGE/s1600/CIMG1933.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-rFqSR-74Bec/VUJLZ4sXyAI/AAAAAAAAUvw/6k66w7izFGE/s1600/CIMG1933.JPG" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-0ln2wxdgkwY/VUJS1TdmJhI/AAAAAAAAUxQ/830L4MHUF78/s1600/CIMG1935.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-0ln2wxdgkwY/VUJS1TdmJhI/AAAAAAAAUxQ/830L4MHUF78/s1600/CIMG1935.JPG" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-47vUaegUVds/VUJLbDi7zII/AAAAAAAAUwM/m0wBZyDSquE/s1600/CIMG1939.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-47vUaegUVds/VUJLbDi7zII/AAAAAAAAUwM/m0wBZyDSquE/s1600/CIMG1939.JPG" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-PxmHStco5aU/VUJLcFdCRJI/AAAAAAAAUwI/6moCzl9vFZQ/s1600/CIMG1943.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-PxmHStco5aU/VUJLcFdCRJI/AAAAAAAAUwI/6moCzl9vFZQ/s1600/CIMG1943.JPG" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Trickling water frozen into ice before it makes it down.</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-9-WsKjHk0ls/VUJLdLURBTI/AAAAAAAAUwY/xtXqNGxzZoM/s1600/CIMG1946.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-9-WsKjHk0ls/VUJLdLURBTI/AAAAAAAAUwY/xtXqNGxzZoM/s1600/CIMG1946.JPG" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-rwn01DCMMso/VUJLdBNkJNI/AAAAAAAAUwU/HNRyJr2vry0/s1600/CIMG1950.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-rwn01DCMMso/VUJLdBNkJNI/AAAAAAAAUwU/HNRyJr2vry0/s1600/CIMG1950.JPG" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-TZcCiHLWxLQ/VUJLdgaK_lI/AAAAAAAAUws/riJTpJk6Uf0/s1600/CIMG1953.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-TZcCiHLWxLQ/VUJLdgaK_lI/AAAAAAAAUws/riJTpJk6Uf0/s1600/CIMG1953.JPG" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-aIyMd7dgUQQ/VUJLeRGKdSI/AAAAAAAAUw4/UzVwBdeSjio/s1600/CIMG1958.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-aIyMd7dgUQQ/VUJLeRGKdSI/AAAAAAAAUw4/UzVwBdeSjio/s1600/CIMG1958.JPG" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-RnxqSxVWUIA/VUJLekQ1W2I/AAAAAAAAUw0/sifcompIK-0/s1600/CIMG1959.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-RnxqSxVWUIA/VUJLekQ1W2I/AAAAAAAAUw0/sifcompIK-0/s1600/CIMG1959.JPG" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Stavanger's fjords were really pretty, it's just too bad the weather was quite gloomy (which apparently seems to be the case for many months out of the year). Norway is probably more about nature than anything else (from a tourist's point of view) as their city centre is pretty small & shopping/city life is... haha. Not to mention expensive. Just a reminder: Norway & Singapore both have a population of 5 million. Except that Norway is a zillion times bigger. You can actually SEE it on the world map. That should give you an idea of the stark contrast between the two.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Stavanger only had a population of 200, 000 but it's the 3rd largest city of Norway. Never been to Norway's capital though (Oslo, which is much further up north & also colder), so I'm curious to see how a bigger city would be like.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<a href="http://www.pinterest.com/pin/create/extension/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.blogger.com%2Fblogger.g%3FblogID%3D19447173%23editor%2Fsrc%3Ddashboard&media=https%3A%2F%2Fimages-blogger-opensocial.googleusercontent.com%2Fgadgets%2Fproxy%3Furl%3Dhttp%253A%252F%252F2.bp.blogspot.com%252F-JhFQQFsZCFw%252FVUJLVTtNSDI%252FAAAAAAAAUvA%252FeWoxR9is8CY%252Fs1600%252FCIMG1907.JPG%26container%3Dblogger%26gadget%3Da%26rewriteMime%3Dimage%252F*&xm=h&xv=sa1.35&description=" style="background-color: transparent; background-image: url(data:image/png; border: none; cursor: pointer; display: none; height: 20px; left: 42px; opacity: 0.85; position: absolute; top: 324px; width: 40px; z-index: 8675309;"></a><a href="http://www.pinterest.com/pin/create/extension/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.blogger.com%2Fblogger.g%3FblogID%3D19447173%23editor%2Fsrc%3Ddashboard&media=https%3A%2F%2Fimages-blogger-opensocial.googleusercontent.com%2Fgadgets%2Fproxy%3Furl%3Dhttp%253A%252F%252F2.bp.blogspot.com%252F-JhFQQFsZCFw%252FVUJLVTtNSDI%252FAAAAAAAAUvA%252FeWoxR9is8CY%252Fs1600%252FCIMG1907.JPG%26container%3Dblogger%26gadget%3Da%26rewriteMime%3Dimage%252F*&xm=h&xv=sa1.35&description=" style="background-color: transparent; background-image: url(data:image/png; border: none; cursor: pointer; display: none; height: 20px; left: 42px; opacity: 0.85; position: absolute; top: 324px; width: 40px; z-index: 8675309;"></a></div>
sophiewillocqhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14949085151032830398noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-19447173.post-43209717240307848852015-03-28T19:31:00.000+08:002015-06-16T17:34:55.167+08:00Epi-LASIK (Part 1)<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Myopia has been a pretty big part of my life as I've had to wear glasses since I was about 8 years old!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Both my parents have myopia so it was pretty much set in stone that I'd inherit it too & plus I used to read a lot when I was young. Fast forward 17 years, I'm 25 years old (soon!) & my myopia stabilised at <b>~600 degrees</b>. Most people I know have degrees ranging between 100-400 & only a few of us break that 500 degree barrier. LOL.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
If you don't have a high degree like I do, you don't get how it's like to have a person stand in front of you & not be able to make out who it is... It's that bad!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
I have worn contact lens on a daily basis since I was 15 years old & anytime I'm not wearing them, I'm in my spectacles. I put them on as soon as I wake up & take them off only right before I sleep. I even wear them into the shower & only take them off when I need to get my face wet!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
You can say... I'm pretty handicapped due to my low vision.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-k6tIAUr8PDU/VRZ8_FUGCmI/AAAAAAAAUsc/CteS3_7WBDU/s1600/IMG_2461.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-k6tIAUr8PDU/VRZ8_FUGCmI/AAAAAAAAUsc/CteS3_7WBDU/s1600/IMG_2461.jpg" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-TrZ-2WpV1OM/VRZ8_P8TzrI/AAAAAAAAUsg/deE_qwsJzpY/s1600/IMG_2468.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-TrZ-2WpV1OM/VRZ8_P8TzrI/AAAAAAAAUsg/deE_qwsJzpY/s1600/IMG_2468.jpg" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Me in 2012!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
The only 2 pictures of myself in spectacles that I've ever put on my blog (other than childhood ones).</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
I've always known I would be going for LASIK. It has always been my plan & a definite eventuality.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
As I got older it became a simple matter of when to get round to it...</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
And that time is now!!!!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-BCIAHu3aeB0/VX_c3NyNqLI/AAAAAAAAU5I/saR9ymU-XUA/s1600/lasik3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-BCIAHu3aeB0/VX_c3NyNqLI/AAAAAAAAU5I/saR9ymU-XUA/s1600/lasik3.jpg" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
I went for a consultation with <a href="http://www.clearvision.com.sg/">Clearvision Eye Clinic & LASIK Centre</a> some time back.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Their clinic is very conveniently located in town, just behind Lucky Plaza & next to Mount Elizabeth Medical Centre (where you will also go for some follow-ups with the eye doctor).</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
I'm sure most of you have heard of LASIK.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
However recently there have actually been new procedures that are much, much better than LASIK!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
You may have also heard of Epi-LASIK & ReLEx SMILE.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Those 2 are much newer procedures than LASIK & frankly I wouldn't recommend LASIK to anyone.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
The procedure I will be going for is Epi-LASIK!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
It's a better procedure than LASIK in sooo many ways.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-xKI83eAehjI/VRaFlRThAvI/AAAAAAAAUs0/moOJtQe1mqQ/s1600/IMG_5557.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-xKI83eAehjI/VRaFlRThAvI/AAAAAAAAUs0/moOJtQe1mqQ/s1600/IMG_5557.JPG" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
You should set aside about 2-3 hours for your consultation, which will involve checking your cornea thickness, subjective refraction & so on. Your eyes will be dilated beforehand which means your near vision may be affected for a few hours afterwards! However personally I've gone through this eye dilation a few times (for this consultation & other eye checks when I was younger) & I've never had any problems afterwards; my vision was pretty much normal.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-BCIAHu3aeB0/VX_c3NyNqLI/AAAAAAAAU5I/saR9ymU-XUA/s1600/lasik3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-BCIAHu3aeB0/VX_c3NyNqLI/AAAAAAAAU5I/saR9ymU-XUA/s1600/lasik3.jpg" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
And essentially why Epi-LASIK is much better than LASIK:</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<b>Epi-LASIK is a non-invasive, surface based procedure, safer procedure that is suitable for almost everyone, even if you have been rejected for LASIK.</b></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="color: red;">LASIK:</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
- Cornea is cut, flap is lifted up for the laser to remove tissue & reshape the cornea</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
- Duration: 15-20 mins per eye</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="color: red;">Epi-LASIK</span>:</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
- Topmost surface epithelium cells are removed before a laser reshapes the cornea</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
- The epithelium cells will self-heal</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
- Duration: About 5 mins per eye</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Individuals with these characteristics below are still able to go for Epi-LASIK!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Myopia: Up to 1200 degrees</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Hyperopia: Up to 300 degrees</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Astigmatism: Up to 500 degrees</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
P.S. Both LASIK & ReLEx SMILE can only accept patients with myopia up to 1000 degrees.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-BCIAHu3aeB0/VX_c3NyNqLI/AAAAAAAAU5I/saR9ymU-XUA/s1600/lasik3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-BCIAHu3aeB0/VX_c3NyNqLI/AAAAAAAAU5I/saR9ymU-XUA/s1600/lasik3.jpg" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<b>There are a TON of benefits of opting for a flapless & bladeless technique (Epi-LASIK)!</b></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
# Cutting a flap in your cornea can result in many complications such as flap wrinkles, infection, flap dislodgement & inflammation.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
# You do not need to worry about suffering from long term dry eyes after LASIK as cornea nerves are not cut. Thousands of cornea nerve endings are cut when the cornea flap is created!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
# You need not worry about the higher risk of traumatic cornea flap damage when engaging in sports.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
And most importantly,</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<b><span style="color: red;"># You want to preserve precious cornea tissue for other possible procedures</span></b></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
This is very important as there is NO improvements or refinements that can be done after LASIK. Furthermore, as we age we may also face problems of "lau hua" (long-sighteness), which can still be corrected after an Epi-LASIK surgery.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-BCIAHu3aeB0/VX_c3NyNqLI/AAAAAAAAU5I/saR9ymU-XUA/s1600/lasik3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-BCIAHu3aeB0/VX_c3NyNqLI/AAAAAAAAU5I/saR9ymU-XUA/s1600/lasik3.jpg" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Regarding ReLEx SMILE, it also has similar benefits to Epi-LASIK of being flapless & bladeless.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
However, here are some important cons of ReLEx SMILE:</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
# It can only be done once, any enhancements are only possible using Epi-LASIK</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
# Still a very new procedure & thus long-term side effects & success rates are yet to be established</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
# It is more expensive. LOL.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Here are some price comparisons for your perusal:</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
LASIK - ranges from $2364 (SNEC) to $2888 (Shinagawa)</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Epi-LASIK - ranges from $3388 (Clearvision) to $3600 (SNEC)</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
ReLEx SMILE - ranges from $4376 (SNEC) to $5289 (LASIK Surgery)</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
SNEC refers to Singapore National Eye Centre by the way!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
So as you can see, Clearvision Eye Clinic & LASIK Centre is priced very competitively.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
And honestly at $3000+ I think it's a pretty good investment for perfect vision the rest of your life!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
If you add up the total cost of contact lens over the years & decades... </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Pretty sure permanent myopia correction is more worthwhile.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
You can check out their website below (click image):</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.clearvision.com.sg/" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-WJmPgeY9sJI/VRaO0z0lQlI/AAAAAAAAUtQ/IAhNlXh1UJ8/s1600/clearvision.jpg" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Their website is actually crazily informative, covering the procedure of Epi-LASIK as well as FAQs regarding medical leave & even claiming from insurance/Medisave.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-BCIAHu3aeB0/VX_c3NyNqLI/AAAAAAAAU5I/saR9ymU-XUA/s1600/lasik3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-BCIAHu3aeB0/VX_c3NyNqLI/AAAAAAAAU5I/saR9ymU-XUA/s1600/lasik3.jpg" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Find out if you're suitable for Epi-LASIK by giving them a call at <b>+65 6100 2020 </b>or email them at <b>doctor@clearvision.com.sg</b>. Website: <a href="http://www.clearvision.com.sg/">www.clearvision.com.sg</a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Clearvision Eye Clinic & LASIK Centre</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
6 Nutmeg Road</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
S(228337)</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Quote <b>"Sophie Willocq"</b> at the counter to get S$121 off your Epi-LASIK package!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<a href="http://www.pinterest.com/pin/create/extension/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.blogger.com%2Fblogger.g%3FblogID%3D19447173%23editor%2Fsrc%3Dsidebar&media=https%3A%2F%2Fimages-blogger-opensocial.googleusercontent.com%2Fgadgets%2Fproxy%3Furl%3Dhttp%253A%252F%252F4.bp.blogspot.com%252F-xKI83eAehjI%252FVRaFlRThAvI%252FAAAAAAAAUs0%252FmoOJtQe1mqQ%252Fs1600%252FIMG_5557.JPG%26container%3Dblogger%26gadget%3Da%26rewriteMime%3Dimage%252F*&xm=h&xv=sa1.35&description=" style="background-color: transparent; background-image: url(data:image/png; border: none; cursor: pointer; display: none; height: 20px; left: 193px; opacity: 0.85; position: absolute; top: 1770px; width: 40px; z-index: 8675309;"></a><a href="http://www.pinterest.com/pin/create/extension/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.blogger.com%2Fblogger.g%3FblogID%3D19447173%23editor%2Fsrc%3Dsidebar&media=https%3A%2F%2Fimages-blogger-opensocial.googleusercontent.com%2Fgadgets%2Fproxy%3Furl%3Dhttp%253A%252F%252F4.bp.blogspot.com%252F-xKI83eAehjI%252FVRaFlRThAvI%252FAAAAAAAAUs0%252FmoOJtQe1mqQ%252Fs1600%252FIMG_5557.JPG%26container%3Dblogger%26gadget%3Da%26rewriteMime%3Dimage%252F*&xm=h&xv=sa1.35&description=" style="background-color: transparent; background-image: url(data:image/png; border: none; cursor: pointer; display: none; height: 20px; left: 193px; opacity: 0.85; position: absolute; top: 1770px; width: 40px; z-index: 8675309;"></a></div>
sophiewillocqhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14949085151032830398noreply@blogger.com3