I love you, Your Majesty

I truly believe that if and when my son marries a wife, he will love her deeper than the deepest ocean and higher than the highest mountain.

I see this in the way he expresses his love for me.  For example...

1.  Just this afternoon he was happily riding on his new bicycle (oopss, I have yet to put up a post on the children's christmas present this year) out in the porch by himself.  I was lazing in the living room and hearing him ring his bell, shouting, "Ice kacang!!  Ice kacang!! Who wants ice kacang?!"

Then he pops by the front door and ask me in his sweetest tone, complete with his signature smile, "Do you want some ice kacang, Your Majesty?"

2.  When we were playing at the kiddy pool at our hotel in Bali, hubby and the two kids decided to gang up and splash me with water.  Poor mommy who can't swim, had to turn around and cover my head with two hands.  When I did that, my little boy came to my defense and told Daddy and Victoria to "stop, stop!!  Don't hurt my wife..."  and man, he did that soooo seriously, I was indeed touched.

3.  When I had this recent bouts of giddiness, William voluntarily laid his hands on my head and prayed, "Dear God, please take away the headache from Mummy my wife..."  hehehe...

4.  Whenever he want something from me, specifically the Ipad, he will either call me "Your Majesty" or he'd wrap his little arms around my neck, or play with my hair and then give me this smile of his again before putting in his request.  Sometimes quite embarrassing also when he calls me "Your Majesty" in public especially when his request is so small - makes me look like a tyrant mom.

5.  These days, he comes around during lunch time, easily more than 3 times hopping out of his chair, to hug and kiss me - with his oily mouth!  I think that explains the sudden growth of pimples on my face last month.  He thinks it's funny and does it again and again, despite my mild protest and warning that he should stay seated during meal time.  Then he'd go, "Kiss you only mah... cannot meh?" 

Even jie jie is not spared.

Pretend cool...

Proud of his first tattoo - both sunglasses and tattoo thanks to Jarrett kor kor

A turbulence, a gun and bye bye Bali

Gun?  What gun?

I forgot to mention that on Day 1 when we were at KLIA going through the luggage scanners, we were asked to open one of our bags.  The officers looked serious.  As hubby opened the bag, they asked him if he has any non-allowable items, which obviously we didn't. They were quite persistent, and asked us if we have something in the shape of a... gun!

At first hubby said no, then he realised that we did have a gun in our luggage... a water gun, that is!  And it was William's water gun.  We dug it out, and showed it to the officers.  I don't know who was more relieved, them or us. 

Turbulence

On our flight to Bali, our plane suddenly hit turbulence and we were reminded twice to stay in our seats then put on our seat belts.  Honestly it didn't feel like a normal turbulence, but none of us passengers thought any more about it until the captain announced that out plane hit a jetwash just 1000 feet above ours.

Phew.  What a close shave!  To think that if it was any nearer...


Day 5:  Bye bye Bali
19th November 2012

This morning after 4 days of good sunshine, the clouds opened up in slight drizzle followed by medium rain just as we walked out of the hotel toward the beach after our breakfast.

So we headed back to the hotel to continue packing.  Half an hour's time, the rain subsided and we left our room to head to the beach side.  Whilst there, I was approached by a lady offering manicure services for IDR80,000.  I wasn't keen, but to help this lady start off her business for the day, I offered IDR20,000 (equivalent to RM7) for Vic's fingers, together with pretty painted flowers.

Vic has been bugging me to have her nails painted but we've never allowed until now.  She was sooo happy when I asked her if she wanted her nails done... obviously it was a YESSS!!

Boys building sand castle.  Daddy on his handphone on business

Clouds were still dark and gloomy when we arrived the beachside, which later cleared up a bit.  

While the kids played on the beach with Daddy, I went gallivanting into Kuta town to see if there are any last minute bargains.

After the kids bathe, we checked out.  At the lobby, we casually enquired the Reception if there are any outgoings at the airport.  Reception highlighted the departure tax to us which is IDR150,000 per person notwithstanding adult or child.  That was a shock to us, as we had decided to use up all our rupiahs during this trip, keeping some loose change as tips for our driver.

Charlie brought us to a money changer in town before heading to the airport where hubby exchanged his ringgits for more rupiahs.

Lunch was very simple for us - we hung out at the Premier Lounge that served very simple food.  After visiting so many premier lounges in different airports, this is by far one with least to offer, but the new airport ready next year should offer much improvement.  We are however grateful they allowed the kids in complimentary when we should be paying.

Kids love the inflight entertainment.  Vic watched Ice Age 3 whilst I chose Spider Man which I didn't get to finish because we arrived too soon

 
This was another great holiday - love it when our currency is stronger than the host currency.  Love it also that we got to spend foursome time together.  Felt blessed with a good driver and to anyone going to Bali, we definitely recommend Charlie. Just tell him you know Irene (or you can mention William's name)  ; )

She can be my friend

Having a daughter really does have its benefits... I mean this in a funny but good way.  Of course, we are neither traditional nor superstitious, and I am blessed with good parents and in laws who do not prefer any one gender more than the other.

People have shared with me that having a girl first is always better, in the sense that she can be the little helper.  Indeed, Vic has always rised to the occasion whenever we needed her help, sometimes not even having to ask her.  I will always remember and be entirely grateful for her little hands that pushed and pulled the trolleys of our luggage during our holiday in UK in 2010, and she was barely 5 then.

Without her, we would have have to pay tips in pound sterlings to hotel porters and cab drivers, or even risk leaving luggage behind, or been heavily inconvenienced and delayed at train stations and airports.  

Beside being a helper at home, she's also maturing into a friend that I could share my thoughts and feelings with.  You know it ain't easy being stuck at home with barely any adult interaction (if you don't count the phone or Facebook) so sometimes sharing my frustrations or thoughts with Vic is really a special time for us, as she response back in questions and suggestions.  

A week back during this "cold war" with my maid, Vic came over to me many times to tell me what Kakak told her behind my back.  We've even talked in our secret language in front of William and the maid, like how BFFs would.

When I'm hungry, Vic is every ready to prepare me a snack, and she'd happily make me a cup of Milo.  You can even order "tambah nestum" and she'll give you that plus another scoop of oats just to make sure you are very full.  She brought me this special Milo a while back, and in another hand, she was holding a box of biscuits for me.  How motherly, you can even say!  

She likes to take my handphone to send messages out and I let her.  The only condition is she have to write her name on the message, so whoever receives it knows it is from her and not me!  

On clothes, this is where we still have differing views.  She prefers jeans and tees anytime, socks and sneakers all the time!  But me, I'm still trying to coax her into a dress, wear Mary Janes, and tie two pleats!  Now she wants mini short skirts *slap head* and I'm still wishing she gets into a dress.  Oh well.  

I think we can be friends, pretty good friends hopefully... but the test is really when she enter teenagehood.  Man... that'd be when the real challenge starts!  

Day 4: Turtle Island off Nusa Dua

Day 4
18th November 2012

Today was originally a lepak day, not doing much except pool, beach or shops.  But the day earlier, we were enticed with a visit to an island, aptly named the Turtle Island somewhere off Nusa Dua.

Our driver, Charlie picked us up punctually from our hotel at 930am, or was it 9am, and we headed off towards the higher end of Bali - Nusa Dua, which according to Charlie, is more suited for honeymooners and Europeans who prefer the quiet beaches and less crowded streets.

We rented a private boat (those that come with a portion of glass flooring so we can see underneath the boat) that took us to Turtle Island.

Our tour guide immediately placed a mid sized turtle on Daddy's hands, and hubby sportingly posed pictures.  Just as all the other animals that William have touched courageously, he was enthusiastic about the turtle too.  Vic needed some coaxing, and mummy... well, let's just say mummy rather took pictures.  ; )

The boatman stopped enroute to the island for us to feed the fishes.  There were a few other boats also doing the same.  The fishes were therefore quite well fed and satisfied.

We praise God for wonderful sun shiny weather again

Mummy loves boat rides. 

Boats similar to ours all parked near the beach

Kids were afraid of these holes - they think the sand is infested with crabs

Turtle centre

William's first time touching a turtle.  He wanted to carry it too, obviously we didn't allow.  Ain't gonna pay for an injured turtle ; )

These bigger turtles are apparently around 70 years old, and over 100kg each.  I counted around 20 odd of them in the sanctuary.  We warned William not to go too close.  He even splashed water at the turtle's face. 

Vic wore sneakers and socks.  Partially my fault as it did not cross my mind that it was not suitable for island visit.  So Daddy had to carry her here, in order for her to touch the turtle shell.

Up close with a "what's this bird called?"

We saw a cock fight too

Hubby did not hesitate to do this.  I told him he didn't have to prove anything, because I am already married to him.  Of course this is a joke, but really, I'm not keen of snakes, going near or touching or even seeing one alive.

Why does my hair look so disheavelled?  Must be the windy boat ride.  Anyway, this is a white eagle.

The boatman volunteered to carry Vic to and from the boat.  We gave him a tip for this, because the girl is easily nearly 30kg

On our way back, we saw many parasailing

Many beach side activities

We had lunch at a simple warung (Charlie's recommendation because we told him we didn't want the tourist buffet areas).  William broke into a sudden Gangnam Style dance when he heard the background music and this made the waiter laughed.

Krishna Departmental Store (near Ngurah Rai Airport)

On the way back, we asked Charlie to drop me off at Krishna departmental store, where locals shop at local prices.  After dropping me, he sent hubby and the kids back to Kuta (later I found out he dropped them at the beach and not the hotel).  When I was done shopping an hour plus later, Charlie was already waiting outside for me.

I didn't get exactly what I wanted, but I got many other things.  In total, I spent IDR483,000 here for clothes, bags, food and souvenirs - very reasonable.  Since it will take 1.5hours to Sukawati, I decided to ditch this plan and just stick to Kuta Art Market.

This time, I got a little result here unlike Day 1.  Bought some decorative plates that I regretted not buying at Ubud, however the designs offered in Kuta is less attractive than Ubud's.

I reached the hotel around 4pm, and hubby just managed to put William to sleep, and Vic was about to snooze off too.  My dear hubby suggested I go get my massage done since the kids were sleeping.  So obediently, I went.  : )

Body Massage

Found the first spa centre along Kuta Road and went in.  I paid IDR80,000 (equivalent to RM30) for 1hr Balinese body massage.  Later as I walked further along the road, I found a couple more nice centres with a little cheaper rates.  Oh well.  Can't win all the time, I guess.  This is considered cheap, compared to the first massage I had on Day 1 at the Food Court, and that was only for a 1hr foot-shoulder massage for IDR65,000.

Dinner and Pub

At night, we went back to the Food Court near our hotel, as I liked their fresh seafood and cooking on Day 1.  The kids wanted the same sweet and sour red snapper again.  But food and service this was less impressive than the first visit.  Ma ma dei only, you can say... 

So so only sotong

Spicy nestum fried prawns

Was contemplating if I should put this picture up or not.  Oh well..  look at those jokers up there...

Kids first time in a pub.  Really.  It was a weekday night, so no crowd and too early I guess.  Vic is posing here with our "welcome drink" on our last night of our stay.  Hahaha...

After a short while at the hotel pub, we retired to our room... and I always love being to return to cleaned-up, tidied-up room after their turn down service.  The chamberman (not ladies) have twice surprised us with a playful display of William's blue donkey soft toy on the bed.  Here you see William even has his little pillow courtesy of the hotel.

 Good night... tomorrow, it's home!  

Day 3: Shopping, shopping and more shopping!

Day 3
17th November 2012

Today is when my version of fun begins... shopping!

After hearing so much on how low prices can get and the varied offerings that Bali has to offer (especially from house deco, clothing and souvenir aspect) plus reading up on Bargaining Skills for Idiots 101, not to mentioned all the past stories from friends who came back with such interesting loot, I was gamed and excited.  Of course, the best part was I know I had nothing to lose as I was going with my "si fu" - the man who bargains even better than most women whether aboard or locally.

Just a short background that I have never, ever stepped foot in Bali before, nor tested out my haggling skills in the Mother Land of Haggling aka China.  But hubby... he has been to China and back a couple of times and brought back stuff for everyone of us, at such irresistible prices that we burst out laughing, and this was his 2nd time to Bali.

I have a weakness when I see something I really like, my face is a giveaway.  I try my best to contain my smile, or the glitter in my eyes, but sometimes I can't.  Our strategy this time is this - if I see something I like, I'd haggle a couple of rounds before passing the deal to hubby who will go for the kill.  Worked a few times, but at a few places like Sukawati Market and Ubud Market where we had to split to maximize our shopping, I managed to pull of a few great deals myself.  : )

OK, enough said.  Here is a summarized itinerary for the day with the time (estimate):

 930am - Our private tour driver, Charlie picked us up from the Hotel lobby at the agreed time.

1100am - First stop, Sukawati Market.  It was enroute to Ubud which was originally our first destination.  Charlie was gracious enough to slot in Sukawati without any complains.

12:30pm - We left Sukawati to Mt Batur for a scenic lunch overseeing the famous volcanic mountain.

1:30pm - Tegallalang rice terrace.  Bought two decorative porcelain plates for less than RM15 in a less-than-5 minutes bargain.  Totally proud of myself and regretted not buying more. 

3:00pm - Ubud Art Market

5:00pm - Departed Ubud (shops closed at this time too)

6:30pm - Jimbaran Seafood

8:00pm - Headed back to Hotel, arrived about an hour later.

We planned this day tour before our trip, and intentionally cancelled out visits to the gold & silver works, wood carving and cultural dances. 

Sukawati

If your intention is to shop in Bali - this is a MUST VISIT.  You will find many clothings, souvenirs, paintings and decorative items here at opening prices that are much lower than the other markets.  That means, you can press their prices even lower, unless you feel obliged to pay more to the locals.  Otherwise, have fun buying and buying, and then laughing your socks off!

Budget at least 2-3 hours here.  Best to go in the mornings, in fact, this applies to any market because the locals are very superstitious (just like the Thais) that they need a sale - ANY SALE - to start the day for good luck.  So take advantage of that and "help" them to start the day.  Very likely, they will be willing to go dirt low on the price that you can never get elsewhere or anytime later - provided you are a good haggler.  ; )

Think 70% discount for everything.

Ubud Market

Loads of artsy decorative items here, besides clothings and souvenirs.  Opening retail price can be rather high, but then again... go ahead and have fun.

Bought clothings and souvenirs here.  One of them was a mirror which I haggled 70% off down to IDR50,000 but I was surprised the seller gave in after only a few attempts to push the price back up.  So my first thought was that I didn't got a good deal although it was already a very good price for me.  We can never get anywhere near this price for this beautiful, hand decorated mirror in Malaysia.

As I did a quality check on the "sold" item, I found a small mark for which hubby did some talking to the seller and finally we got the mirror for IDR30,000 equivalent to RM10!!!  Perceived value is definitely 5 times more!!

Tegallalang Rice Terrace

A lovely stop along the way back from the highlands in Kintamani.  As William was sleeping, I was the only one who went down to snap a few pictures and bought two pieces of lovely porcelain plates for only IDR40,000.

Snapped a picture of this old farmer who was posing for some "gwai los"

Kuta Market (on other days)

Prices here are rather high.  Our first day shopping here didn't reel in much except for a handmade Elvis Presley guitar-cum-casing souvenir, a dolphin with a surfboard souvenir and some other stuff.  Like I said, the afternoon attempts were disappointing as the seller seemed non motivated, but I made it up on Day 4 and 5.  Advice is best to get your stuffs from Sukawati and Ubud.

In Kuta, you have also the option of a departmental store at "local" prices, not tourist prices, called Krishna.  Some of the stuff we bought earlier were cheaper than what Krishna offered, so you can imagine what bargains we had.


Mt Batur at Kintamani 

We were brought to this buffet lunch place - tourist place and paid IDR80,000 per adult, and IDR40,000 per child.  You get local food, but variety and quality not quite there.   However, the lunch was enjoyable because of the welcoming cool weather (I did not expect this, probably missed out in my readings) with the volcanic mountain in the background. 

Buffet lunch with local balinese food up in Mt Batur, with nice cooling weather ... 

Enjoying her food.  It is good that Victoria can endure and even enjoy eating spicy food. 

The scenery during lunch time.

My bad... forgotten the name of this mountain.

This was Hubby's lunch Part 1

Jimbaran Seafood Dinner

The place is rather romantic.  Rather, I say, because there are many people there.  If you can just blank them out, and imagine it's just the two of you, yes, than that will be indeed, a very very romantic place to be.  But the food is crap.

The prawns were overcooked and served cold.  We also ordered a red snapper, a minimum of 1 kg was also slaughter on our wallets because they didn't have smaller fishes, so they claimed.   The fish was grilled, and tasted tough and dry.  I think I can cook better fish than this!  The vegetables were pre-cooked and cold.  Only the grilled chicken tasted fairly good, and that was ordered for the kids.  Portions were way too small.  Only the rice was served warm and free-flowing.  You get "free" peanuts too. 

The dinner was pricey and not worth it.  There was a live band going round serenading the patrons and expecting receiving tips thereafter.  We hoped they never come to our table, and they never did.

We got home past 9pm, which was 12 hours of Charlie's service and in our deal earlier, he had adviced us not to exceed 11 hours for the price he asked for.  However, he did not grumble, nor did he even hinted at the time. 

Day 2: Swimming, Kuta town and Balinese Dinner

Day 2
Friday, 16th November 2012

We had the usual buffet breakfast at the hotel.  Holidaying here is great because kids below 12 eat for free, unlike some other hotels that charge even for 4 year olds.

So we ate to our fullest.  This is what I started with.

Today and for the next 3 days, hubby diligently stood by the egg station and ordered me my omelette with extra cheese.  That alone can fill up the whole of my tummy, but since I'm on holiday I'm pushing my stomach muscles to its limits!

 
After a hearty breakfast, we headed to the pool again, because the weather gets very hot by 10am.  I can't recall what time we went in, but it was hot enough.  Here are some more happy pool pictures:

Doing it his way

Let's try two together.  We did this even 3 person at a time - no picture because I was the 3rd person, and Daddy was standing by at the bottom of the slide to catch us

Just look how wonderful the weather is...

After freshening up, we walked out to Kuta town to check out the shops. We went to Kuta Square (where the branded shops were - no bargaining allowed) and Kuta Art Market (where you can practice your bargaining skills there)  We didn't have much "luck" at the Market probably because we went there after lunch and the sellers were all non motivated. 

This was how William looked when we walked out.  He used Daddy's Oakley's.  Good that we have this trusty ol' stroller along in all our holidays as we can load in a tired child or our shopping loot

At night, we had pre-booked local Balinese dinner at the Hotel.  By booking early, we get IDR25,000 discount for each adult.  The kids eat for free.  So in total, this dinner cost us IDR250,000 equivalent to around RM80.  Very very reasonable!

Victoria cherish her freedom to pick and scoop her own food. 

William in deep thought. 

Throughout dinner, William won the heart of a waitress and a waiter.  The latter made a speed boat origami for him.  The waitress, whose name is Ary was very friendly, and always coming by to ensure we are fine.  She knows William's name and calls him by his name the next time we met at breakfast.

Cheers!

At night, we watch a movie together as a family.  The four of us huddled together on one bed, with the laptop hooked up to the TV.  This movie-night is something the kids really enjoy! 

Tomorrow... a whole day out for a tour to Sukawati, Ubud, Mt Batur... etc ending at Jimbaran.