April 2024 – Page 2 – HEALTH FREAK MOMMY

Shopping And Eating in Bangkok

Day 2, 16 April 2024

After our Mahanakhon Skywalk adventure, Alycia and I took a Grab car to Tookpak at Stadium One for dinner. Tookpak, with a Google Review rating of 4.8, was recommended to us by hubby’s second sister in Hong Kong.

Fish paste with coconut shoots green curry – we requested for the green curry to be only mildly spicy as Alycia cannot stomach spicy food. The fish paste was superb – it reminds me of the fish balls that my late maternal grandma made from mackerel fish.

Fried rice with generous amount of real crab meat.

Tookpak at Stadium One. We enjoyed our dinner thoroughly.

1,054 Bhat or about RM136 for only 3 dishes. Pretty costly but worth every Bhat as the food was very good.

Alycia’s first experience on a tuk tuk while I had ridden on them many times before during my trips to Hatyai with my parents.

Initially the tuk tuk driver wanted to charge us 300 Bhat (about RM39) for a 20-minute ride but when we complained that it was expensive, he lowered the price to 250 Bhat (about RM32). It was still expensive but we jumped on it anyway as I wanted Alycia to experience it. Our verdict – better stick to Grab cars as it was very hot on the tuk tuk 😅

Snack of pandan croffle and strawberry smoothie before going up for our Skywalk.

After dinner at Tookpak, we walked to a nearby 7-11 as Alycia wanted to try the sandwiches while I bought some Thai toiletries. While walking along the street, we chanced upon this dessert shop and went in to have a look.

And we ordered a bowl to try. Yummy and refreshing but too sweet for health freak mommy 😜

At Siam Square. We managed to shop for some clothes here.

This building at Siam Square resembles a tin. So cute.

Mango-sticky rice dessert again. The heart shaped thingy is coconut ice cream.

Clothing stall at DD Mall. We took the 250 Bhat tuk tuk to this mall just because Alycia wanted to get a t-shirt that her bestie has that was bought from DD Mall last year.

Very tempted to buy these crew socks for Cass but I wasn’t sure if she would like them. Crew socks are now in fashion, and worn with chunky platform Crocs. I saw many tourists spotting this trend in footwear. What a fashion 😂

Alycia finally found the t-shirt (not the one in this pic) that her bestie has and she bought it in a heartbeat. It’s not cheap though at 490 Bhat. She’s a very happy camper now and we could only leave the mall after she hunted down the tee.
Our next destination – another mall, by Grab car this time.

To be continued…

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Making a Difference: Reasons Why Sustainable Jewelry Should Be Your Next Purchase

Key Takeaways:

The positive environmental impact of choosing sustainable jewelry.
How ethical jewelry practices support fair labor and community development.
Sustainable jewelry as a statement of personal values and social responsibility.
The durability and timeless nature of responsibly sourced accessories.
Supporting craftsmanship and unique design by choosing eco-friendly jewelers.

Table of Contents:

Unique Craftsmanship and Design
Environmental Responsibility
Support for Fair Labor
Personal Values and Social Responsibility
Durability and Timelessness
Conclusion

Unique Craftsmanship and Design

Sustainable jewelry is often the product of artisanal skill and attentive design. Its creation involves intricate, handcrafted processes that celebrate the art of jewelry making, contributing to a cultural heritage of craftsmanship. Artisans who work under ethical conditions are typically allowed the creative freedom to produce unique, one-of-a-kind creations infused with personal flair and storytelling. This singularity is something mass-produced pieces often lack, giving sustainable jewelry a distinctive character that stands out.

The appreciation for such craftsmanship has the added benefit of preserving traditional techniques and supporting the talent of individual makers. Every purchase from a sustainable jewelry brand is an opportunity to become a patron of the arts, endorsing the survival and growth of unique skills and designs. Navigate https://katemaller.com/ to explore many options for sustainable jewelry.

Environmental Responsibility

Embracing sustainable jewelry sends a powerful message about environmental stewardship. Consumers play a critical role in reducing harmful mining practices that contribute to deforestation, water pollution, and greenhouse gas emissions by choosing accessories made with recycled materials or responsibly mined gemstones. Sustainable jewels reflect an evolving industry where luxury meets eco-responsibility. Purchasing these products is a practical step towards preserving the ecosystems vital for our planet’s health.

The environmental benefits of sustainable jewelry are far-reaching. Supporting environmentally conscious brands can significantly decrease demand for newly mined materials, lessening destructive industry practices. Moreover, recycled precious metals and gems can substantially reduce carbon footprint and energy consumption. Every purchase is an opportunity to demand greater accountability within the jewelry industry and to endorse processes that value our natural resources.

Support for Fair Labor

Beyond environmental concerns, sustainable jewelry is intimately linked to social justice. Many ethical jewelry brands prioritize ensuring fair wages, safe working conditions, and the economic empowerment of artisan communities. When jewelry is crafted under fair labor practices, it directly contributes to the well-being and sustainability of communities involved in its production. It supports a model of trade that enriches life and skills rather than depleting resources and exploiting workers.

By opting for jewelry from businesses that enforce ethical labor practices, consumers can help curb child labor, forced labor, and other human rights abuses that are unfortunately still prevalent in some traditional mining operations. This conscious consumerism contributes to individual workers’ livelihood and supports entire communities by fostering education, health care, and sustainable development programs, laying the groundwork for generational upliftment.

Personal Values and Social Responsibility

As individuals strive to align their purchases with values, sustainable jewelry is a beacon of intentional consumerism. It’s a unique and personal way to exhibit one’s commitment to preserving our planet and supporting equitable practices. Opting for pieces created with ethical considerations is a testament to one’s beliefs and an outward expression of social responsibility. It shows that beauty and ethics coexist and that fashion can be stunning and conscientious.

Wearing sustainable jewelry can also serve as a conversation starter, spreading awareness of ethical consumer choices and inspiring others to consider the impact of their purchases. This ripple effect can amplify the message of sustainability and social justice, encouraging a collective movement towards a more responsible lifestyle.

Durability and Timelessness

The considerations for producing sustainable jewelry often translate to higher quality and longevity. Responsible jewelers, dedicated to their craft, tend to use premium materials that are both durable and timeless. Jewelry made from these materials can withstand the test of time, both in style and structure, making it treasured heirlooms rather than disposable items. Thus, investing in sustainable jewelry can be seen as a legacy purchase intended to last and be passed down through generations.

Moreover, the durability of ethically made jewelry means that it is a more sustainable choice environmentally and economically. While some may perceive the upfront cost to be higher than fast-fashion equivalents, the extended lifespan of these pieces invariably offers more excellent value over time. By focusing on the long-term perspective, sustainable jewelry emerges as the practical, prudent choice.

Conclusion

When you buy a piece of sustainable jewelry, you’re not just acquiring a new accessory. You’re taking a stand for environmentally responsible practices, fair and just labor conditions, and expressing a commitment to your personal principles and global citizenship. The value of sustainable jewelry transcends its material worth; it is symbolic of a broader ethical standpoint that advocates for the conservation of our natural world and the dignity of people worldwide. As responsible consumers, we wield significant power to influence the markets and the fashion industry. Sustainable jewelry should be your next purchase because it enables you to exercise this power to maximize positive impact, blending elegance with eco-consciousness. Remember that every gemstone with a conscience and every band of recycled gold weaves a narrative of change and hope. Your choices have a voice; through them, you can resonate with a world that urgently needs our conscientious care.

The ethical choice is clear and compelling. Embracing sustainable jewelry is more than a superficial choice; it’s an investment in the future—an affirmation of living beautifully and responsibly within our means on this shared Earth. The next time you consider adding to your collection, consider the material sparkle and the sparkle of positive change you bring by choosing sustainably.

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Our Pleasant Stay at Novotel Platinum Bangkok

Our recent stay at Novotel Platinum in Bangkok was nothing short of extraordinary—a perfect blend of comfort, convenience, and culinary delights that left a lasting impression on Alycia and me. From its prime location to its delectable buffet breakfast and massage, every aspect of our stay surpassed our expectations and added a special touch to our Bangkok adventure.

The decision to book our accommodation at Novotel Platinum was a result of thorough research. I told Alycia that I wanted to book a hotel that is located at a prime location, must be clean (I’m OCD), and must have good Google reviews. After scouring through Google reviews and considering our priorities, we found ourselves drawn to this modern hotel nestled in the heart of Bangkok’s bustling city center. I paid RM2,118 for 3 nights stay.

One of the highlights of our stay was undoubtedly the daily buffet breakfast at Novotel Platinum. As a self-professed breakfast enthusiast, I was delighted by the wide array of dishes and culinary delights that awaited us each morning. From sumptuous Thai delicacies to international favorites, there was something to tantalize every taste bud. Healthy options were wide and delightful too – from slow-pressed juices to freshly cut fruits, Greek yogurt, low-fat yogurt, a wide array of salad and cheeses, nuts, seeds, healthy hummus, oatmeal, and much more. The scrumptious Thai food, eggs cooked in a variety of styles, Indian and Middle Eastern cuisines were just a few of the many delights that made each breakfast a memorable affair. It’s safe to say that the buffet breakfast at Novotel Platinum was a highlight of our trip—an experience that we still reminisce about fondly.

Beyond the comforts of our hotel, Bangkok itself offered a vibrant tapestry of experiences waiting to be explored. From bustling markets to iconic landmarks, and modern shopping malls, Alycia and I immersed ourselves in the rich tapestry of Thai culture, bonding over shared adventures, culinary discoveries, and shopping excursions. While Bangkok’s bustling streets and vibrant atmosphere may bear close similarities to Kuala Lumpur, its abundance of modern shopping malls, tuk tuk cars, and the Songkran water festival added an exciting twist to our trip.

On the downside, due to our continuous currency depreciation, we discovered that things are more expensive in Bangkok compared to our homeland.

As we reflect on our time at Novotel Platinum and our adventures in Bangkok, we are filled with gratitude for the memories made and the moments shared. From the warm hospitality of our hotel to the vibrant energy of the city, our breathtaking experience of stepping on the transparent glass tray 314 meters above ground (on the 74^th floor) at the Mahanakhon Skywalk, and our very first experience dining on a cruise ship, every aspect of our stay left an indelible mark on our hearts.

To be continued…

Day 1 – as we could not get out of our hotel area due to the Songkran crowds, we ventured to Let’s Relax spa at our hotel for massage instead. I did a 1-hour back and shoulder massage while Alycia opted for a foot massage, which she didn’t enjoy 😅.
Upon arrival, we were served a refreshing chilled pandan tea and after the massage, we were served Genmaicha tea and a packet each of coconut egg rolls.

The Thai Pulled Tea was a crowd favorite, although I found it a tad too sweet.

The gong will be sounded at around 8am every morning and this staff will showcase her skill in pulling Thai tea.

One of my favorite counters – salad bar.

Another favorite of mine – slow-pressed juice counter

Another must-have of mine every morning – acai berry bowl with Greek yogurt, lots of mangoes, soaked chia seeds, dragon fruit, seeds and nuts.

Fresh juice enzyme served to us at our table in a push cart every morning.

Condiments for the porridge. I love the crispy fish salad.

Chicken satay. On our last morning, there was Moo Ping (Thai grilled pork skewers), which was very delish.

No. of times viewed = 18

Maximizing Wellness: A Comprehensive Guide

Key Takeaways:

Wellness encompasses both physical and mental health, each influencing the other.
Regular exercise can have a profound positive impact on mood and mental well-being.
A balanced diet can support both fitness goals and cognitive functions.
Community support can enhance motivation and enjoyment of physical activities.
Technological advancements provide exciting new ways to approach fitness and mental health.

Table of Contents:

Introduction to Wellness
The Fundamentals of Physical Fitness
Mental Health and Its Connection to Exercise
Designing a Fitness Plan That Supports Mental Well-being
Nutritional Influence on Physical and Mental Health
Overcoming Common Barriers to Physical Activity
Fitness Across Different Life Stages
The Role of Community and Social Support in Fitness
The Future of Fitness and Mental Health

Introduction to Wellness

The journey to comprehensive wellness requires an understanding that one’s health is not solely determined by physical abilities or the absence of sickness. Wellness is a multifaceted endeavor that integrates life’s physical and psychological aspects. It demands a continual commitment to personal growth, self-awareness, and behavioral change, leading to a fulfilling and balanced life. For instance, Denver fitness center offers wellness enrichment through a nurturing environment. Here, one can find the resources and support needed to develop a regimen for physical fitness, which, as we will explore, is intrinsically tied to mental health.

The Fundamentals of Physical Fitness

To truly optimize our wellness, we must grasp the essential components of physical fitness. Physical fitness doesn’t merely indicate one’s stamina or muscular capability. It’s a conglomeration of attributes, including cardiovascular and aerobic endurance, muscular strength and endurance, flexibility, and body composition. These components collectively enhance our ability to perform daily activities with vigor and alertness, without undue fatigue, while reducing our risk of chronic diseases. The objective is to build a well-rounded fitness routine that contributes positively to our overall health and lays a robust foundation for nurturing our mental and emotional states.

Mental Health and Its Connection to Exercise

The narrative surrounding mental health has expanded dramatically, recognizing the profound effect exercise has on our psychological well-being. The quintessential benefits of exercise extend beyond building muscles or improving cardiovascular health; they also include significant enhancements to mood, mental clarity, and emotional stability. Engaging in regular physical activity triggers the release of endorphins, the body’s natural mood lifters, and can act as a buffer against the symptoms of depression and anxiety. This is corroborated by extensive studies, which underscore exercise as a powerful modality in improving mental health and contributing to overall happiness and quality of life.

Designing a Fitness Plan That Supports Mental Well-being

While devising a fitness regime, it’s crucial to acknowledge that its benefits are not merely physical. A well-tailored workout plan can be a significant catalyst in combating stress, anxiety, and other mental health challenges. To this end, exercise should not exclusively focus on intensity or frequency but also the quality and mindfulness of the activity. Incorporating mindful practices such as yoga, Pilates, or meditative walks into your routine can amplify the therapeutic effects on mental well-being. These activities encourage a mindful presence and deepened body awareness, acting as a grounding force that fosters inner peace and mental resilience.

Nutritional Influence on Physical and Mental Health

The adage “you are what you eat” holds not only for our physical health but also our mental state. Food fuels our bodies and profoundly impacts our brain function and mood. Nutritional psychiatry is an emerging field exploring the role of diet in mental health. Diets rich in vitamins, minerals, and omega-3 fatty acids promote brain health and contribute to the clarity and plasticity of cognitive functions. Thoughtful nutritional choices can complement our fitness endeavors, helping us to maintain an optimal balance between mind and body and reducing the occurrence of mood swings and mental fog.

Overcoming Common Barriers to Physical Activity

Despite the evident benefits of regular exercise, many individuals need help integrating it into their daily lives due to common barriers. Procrastination, lack of time, and waning motivation can quickly derail fitness aspirations. Overcoming these obstacles requires a strategic approach, such as setting specific, measurable goals and incorporating activities you enjoy into your routine. When exercise is convenient and enjoyable, it’s easier to stay committed. Additionally, enlisting the support of friends or joining fitness groups can provide the necessary accountability and encouragement to remain steadfast in pursuing your wellness objectives.

Fitness Across Different Life Stages

Physical exercise plays a differing yet critical role throughout the various stages of life. Children and teenagers benefit from activities that foster motor skills, social interaction, and healthy bone development. Conversely, adults may focus on maintaining a healthy weight and preventing chronic health conditions. For seniors, the emphasis often shifts to sustaining mobility, balance, and cognitive functions. Tailoring fitness activities to the needs of each life stage ensures that individuals can enjoy and thrive during every phase of their lives, focusing on longevity and quality rather than mere survival.

The Role of Community and Social Support in Fitness

A robust social support system can significantly enhance one’s commitment to an active lifestyle. Research has consistently shown that communal aspects, such as group exercises or working out with a partner, can lead to better adherence to a fitness routine and higher levels of enjoyment. A supportive environment fosters camaraderie, which in turn encourages consistency. It’s worth exploring different community-based fitness options, such as local running clubs, group classes, or online workout communities, especially for those who find solace and motivation in shared experiences and common goals.

The Future of Fitness and Mental Health

The nexus between fitness and mental health remains an area ripe for innovation. As technology evolves, we witness a paradigm shift in approaching health and wellness. From virtual reality workouts that provide immersive experiences to smart devices that track our every step, heartbeat, and calorie, the future holds a realm of possibilities for personalized health strategies. These advancements promise to make achieving fitness and mental health goals more accessible to a broader audience with varying needs and lifestyles, democratizing wellness for all.

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Bangkok Trip With Alycia (15 – 18 April 2024) – Day 1

Hey peeps, I’m back from Bangkok!

Alycia and I survived our first DIY overseas trip without a guide and without her dad with us and I’m glad to say that everything went smoothly. Both our Air Asia flights were on time, despite warnings from my hubby, parents and other friends who had bad experiences of flight delays and cancellations with Air Asia. I thank God for blessing us with an enjoyable and trouble-free trip.

I’m also proud to say that Alycia is such a superb travel organizer. Her regular trips (local and overseas) with her uni mates have groomed her to be a travel-savvy and street smart girl. I just told her the dates that I wanted our trip to be, the time of our flights, where I wanted to visit, find a good and clean hotel and she did everything… with my credit card of course. She booked our hotel accommodation on booking.com. For our visits in Bangkok, purchase of Thailand SIM cards and transport cards, she booked them on Klook. She collected the SIM cards and transport cards at the Klook booth at the Bangkok airport.

We pre-paid our visit to the Mahanakhon SkyWalk and Royal Galaxy Chao Phraya river cruise via Klook. For our meals and shopping, Alycia googled for the most happening shopping malls and eateries and we covered at least 10 shopping malls in three days. We moved around mostly by Grab, BTS, Tuk Tuk car, and walked a lot under the scorching sun. I’m now a few shades tanner.

Alycia even wanted to try Grab motorbike but I was strongly against it for safety reasons. I thought that Sherilyn and Cass are dare devils who dare to try everything dangerous to get the adrenaline rush, but I discovered during this trip that my eldest is another fearless and daring young lady. She has transformed a lot from a timid and shy girl to an adventurous and sociable young lady ever since she went to university three years ago.

A day before our trip, Alycia found out that our dates in Bangkok coincided with the Songkran water festival. She warned me that we would get wet but I didn’t give much thought or worry to it. But I was wrong. We were both caught right smack in the middle of the festival and there was no way we could escape it as our hotel (Novotel Platinum) is located in a prime location, which was where the water fights would be held!

It was our very first time immersing in such a festival and we both had a culture shock. Everything that I had read from the news about Songkran in the past was now right in front of my eyes. We were both squirted with water and our faces were swiped with powder by strangers, who would target anyone with dry clothes and clean face. We had to cross an overhead bridge to get across to the other side where all the shopping malls were. The bridge was jam-packed with revellers and we could not even move. People were shooting water everywhere and at everyone. When we saw that the crowds were even bigger and more rowdy at the opposite side, we made a U-turn and returned to our hotel. We had our dinner at the hotel coffee house and then indulged in massage at the hotel.

To be continued…

Alycia collecting our SIM cards and transport cards at the Klook booth at the Suvarnabhumi Airport.

Revellers on a truck and tuk tuk cars shooting and splashing water on anyone that they see.

The crowd on the overhead bridge from our hotel to the other side. The crowd was even bigger towards the end of the bridge and on the opposite side.

The first thing that I bought in Bangkok – a 250ml bottle of pandan coconut water which cost about RM7. I soon discovered that nothing is cheap in Bangkok, no thanks to the depreciation of our currency.

We tried to cross the bridge again after dinner and massage at the hotel. The crowd had petered out a little but when we were approaching the shopping malls, both Alycia and I got swiped on our faces with powder. A young girl about 7 years old greeted me “ni hao” and then swiped my face with white powder. Then a young man did the same to me. I was shocked, culturally shocked.

The crowd outside a shopping mall opposite our hotel.

I bought this coconut candy (in Malaysia, it’s called dodol) at the Big C mall. It’s unique coz it’s wrapped in some kind of hard leaves, while our Malaysian dodol is wrapped in fresh pandan leaves.

Bic C is a supermarket where one can find a wide array of snacks. It’s a great place for tourists to shop for Thai snacks. But again, due to our currency depreciation, the things are not cheap at Big C. I’ve not seen anything that’s really cheap in Bangkok. Things are cheaper back home. Nonetheless, I bought a big bag of snacks and had to lug them back to KL on my hand-carry bag as some of the snacks are very fragile.

Our dinner at Novotel Platinum – Pad Thai and crab meat omelette. Yummy and expensive (slightly over RM100 for just two dishes).

I had a relaxing 60-minute back and shoulder massage while Alycia had foot massage, which she didn’t enjoy.

Our first meal upon arrival in Bangkok was McDonalds as we could not go anywhere due to the Songkran crowds. Alycia wanted to try the pork burger which her friend said was delicious but she didn’t really like it. After McD, we randomly entered this cafe called After You and ordered a pandan kaya and coconut cream bun, a signature dessert of the cafe.

According to Alycia who did a Google search on this dessert, Jay Chou (famous Taiwanese singer songwriter) ate this dessert too in Bangkok. It’s delicious but a tad cloying as the buns are slathered in a thick layer of coconut cream with a generous amount of thick aromatic pandan kaya on the inside. This dessert must be shared by at least three people.

Alycia’s all-time favorite strawberry bingsu, from After You Cafe too.

We both clocked in at least 17,000 steps every day.

No. of times viewed = 72

Tips for Reconnecting with Your Pre-Kids Self

Becoming a parent is one of life’s most profound changes. The demands of caring for little ones can completely transform your lifestyle and priorities. It’s easy to lose touch with the person you were before having children. Reconnecting with your pre-kids self is important for your mental health and happiness, and ultimately benefits your whole family. Here are some tips for rediscovering the hobbies, interests and personality traits that give you joy outside of parenting.

Make Time for Old Hobbies

When you have young children at home, finding time for yourself can seem impossible. But carving out even small windows to engage in hobbies you enjoyed before becoming a parent is vital. Don’t wait for the perfect chunk of free time – it won’t come! Instead, identify ways to incorporate past passions into the margins of your day. Even 15-20 minutes of making art, playing guitar or reading can help centre you. Share your interests with your kids as they grow older.

Socialise with Child-Free Friends

It’s common for new parents’ social circles to shrink and consist mostly of other families. Make an effort to maintain friendships with people who don’t have children. Plan occasional adult-only outings to restaurants, shows or events that remind you of your pre-kids lifestyle. Your friends without kids can provide perspective and a sense of normalcy beyond the world of parenting.

Revisit Old Fashion Choices

Becoming a mum or dad often means adopting a more practical, low-maintenance personal style. Make space in your routine to reconnect with the fashion sense or beauty rituals you enjoyed before having kids. Wear the types of clothes and makeup that make you feel most authentically yourself, when practical. Even symbolic gestures like putting on an old favourite accessory can awaken a sense of your identity beyond parenthood.

Indulge Nostalgic Entertainment

Your TV shows, movies, books and music tastes likely look much different than in your child-free days. Set aside time to rewatch, reread or relisten to old favourites from your youth or that you associate with the person you were before becoming a parent. Feed your soul with entertainment that resonates with your core self. Share beloved classics with kids as appropriate.

Pursue New Interests Too

Reconnecting with your past doesn’t mean you must remain stuck in it. Carve out time to experiment with new hobbies, fashion choices and entertainment as well. Look for classes or groups that align with untapped interests. Adding novelty to your life helps prevent the monotony than can come with the daily parental grind. Bring a beginner’s mindset of curiosity and fun.

Work with a Coach

If you feel overwhelmed about rediscovering who you are beyond a parent, consider working with a parenting coach from The People Practice Group. A parent coach provides structure, accountability and guidance in setting and achieving goals related to your personal growth and fulfilment. Parenting coaching help you honour the demanding role of parenthood while reconnecting with needs beyond caring for your kids. Many offer remote sessions by phone or video chat.

The transition to parenthood often means parts of your pre-kids self recede into the background. But you are still a multidimensional person with a unique spirit to nurture. Reawakening and expressing your whole self – not just the parental role – allows you to bring more joy, presence and creativity to your family. Your journey will benefit your children as much as yourself.

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Planning Our First DIY Trip to Bangkok

Last week has been a whirlwind of many tasks to accomplish as my eldest daughter and I embark on a new adventure—planning our first-ever DIY trip to Bangkok. With Alycia’s semester break soon coming to an end, we seized the opportunity to have a short holiday in Bangkok, taking on the challenge of organizing every detail ourselves.

As someone who has frequented Thailand numerous times in the past, I thought planning this trip would be a breeze. However, diving into the nitty-gritty of trip planning proved to be more complex than I anticipated.

From scouring the internet for the best airfares with convenient departure and arrival times to securing a nice hotel (with good Google reviews) at tourist hotspots, there was no shortage of tasks to tackle in the span of less than ten days. Gone were the days of relying on travel agents and my parents to handle the logistics—this time, it was up to us to navigate the intricacies of travel planning.

As of today, I have paid for the air tickets and booked the hotel (Novotel Platinum Bangkok).

In addition to booking flights and accommodation, there were several other essentials to take care of before our departure. Making trips to the banks to activate overseas usage for credit and debit cards, online purchasing a SIM card for Thailand use, online purchase of BKK transport cards, exchanging currency and booking entrance tickets (via Klook) to the places that we are planning to visit in Thailand were just a few items on our lengthy to-do list. As the countdown to our departure date dwindled, the pressure was on me to ensure that everything was in place for a smooth and seamless journey.

Alycia has been traveling pretty regularly lately and she’s no stranger to booking tickets and hotel online. She’s also adept at using Apple Maps to bring me around.

However, amidst the excitement of planning our trip, a new challenge emerged—a recent requirement stipulated by the Thai Embassy mandating travelers to carry a minimum of 15,000 Thai Baht (around RM2k) per person in cash upon entry into Thailand as proof of financial ability. This unexpected hurdle added an extra layer of complexity to our preparations, prompting concerns about compliance and logistics. I have since checked with friends who had just returned from Bangkok and all of them told me that they were not checked by the Immigration staff in Bangkok on the amount of cash that they brought in, which was less than the stipulated amount. It seems that the Immigration staff would conduct random checks on travelers.

As departure day draws near, my thoughts turn to my youngest daughter, Cass, who will be home alone when she returns from school in the afternoon. If hubby is busy with work, Cass will have to settle lunch on her own. Cass will also have to learn how to operate the washing machine and do other house chores during my absence. Being the youngest and not one who would willingly do house chores, I hope that she will learn to shoulder responsibilities during my absence.

On top of all these, my other big worry is Haru. Sherilyn is tasked to feed Haru breakfast and Cass has to take care of the dinner. Sherilyn will have to wake up earlier in the morning to feed Haru before rushing off to college. And both of them will have to take turns cleaning the litter box. I hope that these two busy girls will remember to feed Haru and take good care of their fur sister. I am surely going to send them lots of reminders when I am in Bangkok 😜

Despite the uncertainties and challenges that lie ahead, I’m filled with a sense of anticipation and optimism for the journey ahead.

With faith, determination, and a spirit of adventure, I have no qualms that Alycia and I will navigate Bangkok with ease and return home with hearts full of cherished memories. Here’s to new beginnings, unexpected challenges, and the joy of discovery that awaits us in the Land of Smiles. Wish us luck!

Snacks that Alycia bought from Hong Kong last week.

These are all for us while the rest is for her friends and colleagues. Everyone at home loves chocolates. The matcha is also for me, my favorite kind of tea.

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