tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-25276115532075350292024-03-14T16:46:46.692+08:00Step Out in Faith! (:__________________________________________________________________Heidihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05000892399893072442noreply@blogger.comBlogger362125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2527611553207535029.post-34298543892693204002015-05-02T09:48:00.003+08:002015-05-02T09:48:25.497+08:00Don't give the devil a chance.It's been so long.<br />
And I guess it's time to put a stop to it.<br />
All these guessing games.<br />
All these thinking.<br />
What am I pursuing?<br />
It feels like I'm chasing the wind...Heidihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05000892399893072442noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2527611553207535029.post-42265440829777634832014-02-22T11:18:00.000+08:002014-02-22T11:18:00.742+08:00Let it go...<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<span style="font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 0.9em; letter-spacing: -0.03em;">Let It Go - Frozen - Alex Boyé (Africanized Tribal Cover) Ft. One Voice Children's Choir</span></div>
Heidihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05000892399893072442noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2527611553207535029.post-49587533205446007182014-02-16T12:30:00.000+08:002014-02-16T12:30:01.023+08:00In You I Trust.<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Oceans by Hillsong United. (Acoustic Version).Heidihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05000892399893072442noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2527611553207535029.post-71674457046002881902014-02-10T12:35:00.000+08:002014-02-10T12:35:00.093+08:00Unconditionally<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Cover by Josh Levi & Ellona Santiago.<br />
Enjoy! (:Heidihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05000892399893072442noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2527611553207535029.post-35008079540572382902014-02-09T12:41:00.000+08:002014-02-09T12:41:00.166+08:00What's your story?<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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"Story of my life" cover by Boyce Avenue.</div>
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Trying to live each day like it's my last day on Earth...</div>
Heidihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05000892399893072442noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2527611553207535029.post-41113414950568905712014-02-08T12:31:00.001+08:002014-02-08T12:31:19.981+08:00A beautiful mistake<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Heidihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05000892399893072442noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2527611553207535029.post-20490780952221946262013-12-25T13:12:00.001+08:002013-12-25T13:12:38.186+08:00Counting Stars<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Merry Christmas all~! (:<br />
Cover by Gardiner Sisters (ft. Kuha'o)Heidihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05000892399893072442noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2527611553207535029.post-66746416564945240852013-12-06T23:24:00.003+08:002013-12-06T23:24:50.913+08:00It's only when you've been through it, then you understand.<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<br />Heidihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05000892399893072442noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2527611553207535029.post-64647491683614291322013-10-20T17:26:00.000+08:002013-10-20T17:26:00.270+08:00End of #Project21 series!<span style="font-size: large;">Happy Sunday peeps! (:</span><br />
<span style="color: #f4cccc;">End of the #Project21 series posts.</span><br />
22 days after my #Project21! (:<br />
Spend the day with my friends.<br />
The company and the thing I've done to remember my 21st Birthday is all that matters.<br />
<span style="color: #cccccc;">However, had jet lag after I came back from London.</span><br />
Tips which some websites and people don't teach you.<br />
Don't sleep in the plane.<br />
What do I mean by that you may ask.<br />
I boarded the plane at 10pm. Quickly set the time to the destination time.<br />
It should be 4am in SG.<br />
So, sleep.<br />
But if you wake up for the loo, check the time.<br />
If it is noon time already, no matter how tired you are, please don't sleep!<br />
I made the mistake of sleeping throughout my flight.<br />
<span style="color: #783f04;">So, I slept at 2am in the morning.</span><br />
<span style="color: #783f04;">Subsequently, 5am, followed by 3am, then 2am. It was crazy.</span><br />
<span style="color: #f4cccc;">So, yea, hope these lil' tips help! (:</span><br />
<i>God Bless You! (:</i>Heidihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05000892399893072442noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2527611553207535029.post-66534169628882648732013-10-16T17:23:00.000+08:002013-10-16T17:23:00.706+08:00#Project21 -- Extraordinary!Some interesting things to share with you! (:<br />
London have a few interesting & cool museums and places to visit! (:<br />
Sherlock Holmes Museum<br />
Museum of Brands<br />
Florence Nightingale Museum<br />
Alexander Fleming's Museum<br />
Ripley's Believe it or Not! Museum<br />
BBC Tour<br />
<br />
Although a lot of museums in London is free. They 'encourage' you to donate 5 pounds to make the museum free for public. If you have to donate 5 pounds to keep the museum "Free" for public, I don't see how the museum is free.<br />
However, if they were to charge, I don't mind paying for it.<br />
The museums are really BIG, and houses a lot of interesting exhibits. It's totally worth the 5 pounds, or even more than that!<br />
Can't imagine if anybody will walk in and walk out of the museum without paying.<br />
Totally amazed at the exhibits they have.<br />
<br />
One of my day tour guide recommends visiting the Shard instead of the London Eye. London Eye was a bit boring, I'm sorry to say.<br />
Madame Tussaud was considered worth it with the London Black Cab Ride. Didn't go to Scream because I was afraid.<br />
As for London SEA Aquarium, hmmm...a lil' pricey.<br />
For free tours, consider Sandeman's tours! (:<br />
For paid tours, I went with Premium Tours.<br />
<br />
Come, join me together in this adventure to London! ;)Heidihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05000892399893072442noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2527611553207535029.post-38052661857032640582013-10-14T16:00:00.000+08:002013-10-14T16:00:00.990+08:00SwissWas in Zurich Airport, and saw all the advertisements about Swiss Air. How good their service is and etc.<br />
I was extremely disappointed.<br />
Stewardess stepped on my foot not once, but multiple times. As my seat was an aisle seat, the stewardess walked quite fast and hit me.<br />
Tsktsk.<br />
I didn't receive hot towels for the flight back to SG from ZUR.<br />
One stewardess even passed me my No Lactose meal with the plastic wrapper still on. She expects me to unwrap the plastic covering my food tray. The plastic wrapper I'm talking about is not the one covering your hot food. Normally, they hand you the tray without the plastic covering on it because they have removed it for you. Mine was still intact.<br />
Service was totally inconsistent.<br />
Touched down in SG, baggage was still in London or Zurich. Fantastic.<br />
Please people, just to let you know that you can claim money from the airline if your baggage is delayed or lost.<br />
I bought insurance and my friend told me I could claim so I went to claim.<br />
By the way, I attended a Fairprice course where I learn that people give complains because they care and they want you to improve. Really true.<br />
This time round, I don't even bother sending feedback to them.<br />
Because I'm not planning to take another flight with them. At least SIA has better service compared to Swiss Air.<br />
Heard Emirates has pretty good service. Shall try Emirates next time! (:Heidihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05000892399893072442noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2527611553207535029.post-20760389562048452952013-10-12T18:00:00.000+08:002013-10-12T18:00:02.496+08:00#Project21 -- Shopping!<span style="font-size: x-large;">I bet you must have heard about Primark right?!?</span><br />
I went there, telling myself, "<i>Okay, shop for 2 hours will do</i>."<br />
I went into a relatively packed Primark filled with women and men.<br />
For the first time I stood in a store feeling lost. My <i>North South East West</i> was filled with clothes. I <b>TOTALLY HAVE NO IDEA</b> where to start my shopping!! It was packed with clothes and people.<br />
<span style="color: #999999;">Things were sooooo cheap that I keep grabbing and they added up to a high amount.</span><br />
I bought a few pair of leggings. Dirt cheap. 3.50 pounds for a pair of 150 denier leggings. 5/7 pounds for a pair of superrrrr thick and comfortable thighs for the <i>Autumn/Winter</i> season.<br />
Not to mention a pair of faux Suede boots for <i>hello, a mere 8 pounds</i>. <span style="color: red;">If I were to buy a pair of similar shoes in SG, they would have easily costs twice or thrice the amount!</span><br />
Candles that could burn for 12 hours for 1 pound.<br />
Onesies for 12 pounds, but costs me 11 pounds after discount.<br />
Coloured leggings for 3.50 pounds.<br />
Bra for 5 pounds.<br />
Thermals for 5/7 pounds.<br />
No, you didn't see wrongly. Primark things are just so nice and cheap.<br />
You really have to see it to believe it.<br />
My jaw dropped for 4 hours in the shop. 4 hours in a shop. Record breaking. I think you could easily spend half a day in the store okay! It's just so crazyyyy.<br />
Another store which I like is...the <b>1 POUND STORE!</b><br />
Hehehe.<br />
I walked into the store located at <i>Canterbury.</i><br />
<span style="color: #ea9999;">Wow, it was crazy too. Literally 1 pound for <b>EVERYTHING!</b></span><br />
If you are those people like me who like to buy souvenirs, head to <i>Portobello Market!</i><br />
6 keychains for 5 pounds. Still expensive, but they are the cheapest.<br />
<i>Covent Garden </i>has a market too, but I heard from locals that it's v.expensive because it's for tourists. Haha.<br />
For branded goods, <i>Bicester Village</i> is a good option.<br />
You can get to <i>BV</i> by train or by their luxury shopping coach (Evans Evans). Return trip for 25 pounds.<br />
Prada Saffiano wallet (small & black) costs me 160 pounds. Outlet price.<br />
If you buy it in local stores, it will cost you 245 pounds if I'm not wrong.<br />
I saw a brown leather Prada bag which I was sooooo tempted to buy okay! But I didn't because Prada staff didn't allow me to use my card because the name on my card is different from my driving licence. So, please use the name on your NRIC for your cards.<br />
Outlet price: S$1.3K.<br />
Local store price: S$2K ++.<br />
Other than that, Michael Kors wallets are 89 pounds. MK bags, the most common ones, are 159 pounds.<br />
Kate Spade, MK phone covers, 20-40 pounds.<br />
Discounts are crazyyyyy! (:<br />
<b><span style="font-size: x-large;">So, WHAT ARE YOU WAITING FOR?!? Grab your cards and money!!!</span></b>Heidihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05000892399893072442noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2527611553207535029.post-32485933250443100802013-10-09T17:30:00.000+08:002013-10-09T17:30:03.802+08:00#Project21 -- VAT/Tax Free ShoppingIf you shop in the UK, the VAT is 20%.<br />
FYI: For eg: an item costs 120 pounds, the VAT is not 120 x 20% = 24 pounds.<br />
For eg: an item costs 120 pounds because...20% VAT + RRP of the item = 120 pounds.<br />
So, if you go to a shop to purchase things, sometimes they will only do Tax Free Shopping (TFS) for you if you spend 50 pounds or more.<br />
I went to Bicester Village to shop, they do the TFS for you at the cashier. But for Primark, you have to pay for your purchases first, then head to the Tax Free Shopping counter where they will calculate for you the VAT. Every store that you go will deduct some processing fee from you. For Lacoste, the skirt I bought was 33 pounds. VAT refund entitled was 5 pounds. After they deducted the processing fee, I was left with 1.50 pound. For Prada, VAT refund entitled was 28 pounds for a 160 pounds item. But after processing fee deduction, I was left with 15 pounds. Ohhh man! I felt sooooo cheated! The stores charge high processing fee, but they don't complete the form for you. That's the irritating part.<br />
When I got to LHR T1, you have to take out the VAT form from the envelope. That's not all. You have to fill in your address, date of arrival, date of departure, name, email address, credit card number if you want to claim through card. That's the part where they don't fill up for you.<br />
So I highly recommend that since you know this precious info, do it at your hostel or hotel to save time.<br />
The customs officer will stamp and take the paper back. They will suggest to you to take a photo of the receipt in case anything happens. My VAT refund came back 10 days later.<br />
Happy Shopping! (:Heidihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05000892399893072442noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2527611553207535029.post-8496747469447175652013-10-07T17:00:00.000+08:002013-10-07T17:00:00.791+08:00#Project21 -- Experiences<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">I was quite creep-ed out when I touched down at Zurich.</span><br />
<i>From what I know, Zurich airport is one of the best.</i><br />
<span style="color: red; font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">When I touched down at Zurich airport, I was quite shocked to see chairs and some things placed randomly, and the toilet was quite old. Then I thought to myself,</span> <span style="font-size: large;">"Why is this place one of the best airport??"</span><br />
Hmmmm...<br />
So I continued to walk, hoping to find the answer to my question.<br />
On the way to collect my<b> baggage/head to transit E</b>, you have to take the train to another part of the terminal.<br />
So I waited for like maybe 1 min, then the train came.<br />
Okay, this is the creepiest part.<br />
Alone for the first time in another country, I didn't know what to expect. So I boarded the mini train (<i>somewhat like Changi Airport Train</i>), the door closed and the train start to move. Halfway through the ride, there were cows moo-ing in the background, women singing (<i>think the Ricola Commercial but in a dark tunnel</i>). I looked to my side, there was moving images of a person throwing the Swiss flag in the air. These were all meant as entertainment for the boring train ride. But it was really creepy. 6am.<br />
Anyway, though I did a lot of research, I was rather disappointed to know that there was no Marche. And I was stuck at the airport for a few hours with nothing I like to eat and no where to go. Couldn't connect to internet as well. There was no msg sent to my SG number. (<i>You have to register with the sms sent to your mobile</i>).<br />
So I ate bought a small packet of potato chips for S$3+, and bought a 500mls of Evian water for S$5+. It was freaking EXPENSIVE!!! @.@<br />
Lesson learnt: I will always bring my own food when I go to Europe!!<br />
<span style="color: #999999; font-size: x-small;">Anyway, when I reached the 'main terminal', the toilets were much better, and it looks pretty nice and new.</span><br />
After that, the plane came and I headed to London.<br />
<b>Here comes the London part.</b><br />
Touched down at Heathrow T1 around 11am, the place was filled with people. I waited for approx 30 mins to be asked a lot of qns. Why you come to London? Your return itinerary pls? What are you doing in London? Where are you returning to? C'mon, the card wrote the things right? I'm not some criminal! The only place I got asked a lot of qns.<br />
<b>After the customs, it's baggage claim.</b><br />
After you've claimed your baggage, head down the escalator, and there will be people wearing the purple Heathrow vest selling Heathrow Express tickets in front of you as you come down from the escalator.<br />
It's 34 pounds for a return ticket. It comes in a receipt and you have to keep it with you throughout if you bought a return ticket.<br />
After you have purchased the ticket, take the lift and head to platform 2.<br />
15 mins later you will reach Paddington Station.<br />
Ticket officers will check your ticket around 5 mins after the train start to move. If you buy your ticket on board, it will cost more. So, either buy your ticket online or at the airport itself.<br />
To get your Oyster card (somewhat like Octopus HK, Easycard TW, Ezlink SG), head to the tube station.<br />
The card costs 5 pounds, and I topped up 45 pounds for 8 days in London, traveling in Zone 1 only. Be prepared to walk from one line to another line. (<i>Eg: Bakerloo to Circle Line</i>).<br />
Also, sometimes it's easier to walk then to take the Tube. (<i>Eg: Oxford Street-Piccadilly Circus</i>).<br />
S$100 for 8 days travel in London. It's my 1 month travel cost in SG.<br />
The card is refundable, but I think you have to write in and wait for them to refund you the money. I love London so I can see myself going back there. Haha. So I didn't return my card.<br />
For SIM Card, there's Vodafone at Paddington Station. However, the microSIM was sold out. So I went to Orange at Paddington Station also. It was quite troublesome for me. I inserted the card, received a few msgs from them to say my card is activated and I can use it. I could call and msg. But the internet connection was so troublesome! I had to add some APN. I went to google it and followed the steps then after I've added the APN or VPN I could use the data. It was 10 pounds for one month of unlimited calls and msgs, with 1GB of data.<br />
<span style="color: #ea9999; font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">--> I will do a separate post of shopping in London, interesting things to do, and VAT (Tax Free Shopping).</span><br />
So, after 8 days in London, it was time to go back to SG!<br />
I was so pissed off! The staff at LHR T1 gave me an earlier flight because I checked in 2.30hrs before my initial flight. The info on the ticket was different from the one on the screen. Thinking I was late for my flight, I brisk walked for 10 mins with 5-10kg of baggage in both my arms and trying to protect my macarons before I reach my departure gate. So, can you imagine how far it was?!!? When I reached the boarding gate, the screen showed "Take a Seat."<br />
Tsk. Perspiring from rushing and an empty stomach, just to see that sentence. So disappointed.<br />
After 15 minutes, we boarded the flight.<br />
Touched down at Zurich Airport, went through the same motion, with the only exception that there wasn't much tourists around. Ate a bowl of tomato spaghetti. S$25. I will go bankrupt if I was in Switzerland for 1 month. :X<br />
<span style="color: red; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Anyway, I will also do a separate post on Swiss Airline service.</span><br />
Ciao! (:<br />
<br />Heidihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05000892399893072442noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2527611553207535029.post-19292141865218561892013-10-05T15:35:00.001+08:002013-10-05T17:37:06.677+08:00#Project21 -- Accomodation<span style="color: #f4cccc;">Came back from London already! (:</span><br />
<span style="color: #f4cccc;">IT WAS SOOOOOOO FUN!!! (:</span><br />
<span style="color: #f4cccc;"><b>Miss the weather and shopping there!</b></span><br />
<span style="color: #f4cccc;">Tried to blend in with the locals.</span><br />
<span style="color: red;">Still remembered the way I look at everyone as though as they were pickpockets on the first day.</span><br />
Haha.<br />
Stayed in a 4 bed Deluxe Room with a mini kitchen (microwave oven, kettle, sink, no stove) and toilet with shower in Pride of Paddington. Free wifi too! (:<br />
I like to stay in this hostel. Good experience for me as a first-timer staying in a hostel. The cons is that it's too near to the hospital and roads that I hear ambulance and cars going by. Not to mention construction work. But it was not much of an issue to me because I was so tired from walking that I just slept. Haha. The bed was comfortable. But the lockets were too small to fit my luggage so I had to put it beside my bed. It costs me S$530 for 7 nights.<br />
20 pounds will be paid as a deposit for the 2 keys, and towels given to you. Once you have returned these items (toiletries do not have to be returned), the 20 pounds will be returned to you upon checkout (<i>8am-12nn</i>).<br />
You have to inform them for early checkout so they can arrange to return you the 20 pounds deposit. If you want to ask them to help you store your luggage while you go shopping, it can be done for a small sum of 2 pounds.<br />
Anyway, I met a few new friends from Brazil, Japan, Zurich, Australia & China, and almost everyday! (:<br />
It was nice to mingle around with people around the world, and share with one another about our stories of why we came to London. (:<br />
I think it's kinda true for this saying by Samuel Johnson: "<i>Why, Sir, you find no man, at all intellectual, who is willing to leave London. No, Sir, when a man is tired of London, he if tired of life; for there is in London all that life can afford</i><span style="font-family: verdana, helvetica, arial; font-size: x-small;">."</span><br />
What do you think?<br />
However, after all I've only been there for like 8 days, so I can't agree with him fully.<br />
Anyway, stay tune for the next post about London and Zurich. Touching down/flying off.Heidihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05000892399893072442noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2527611553207535029.post-40980031306453171882013-09-16T15:00:00.000+08:002013-09-16T15:00:06.562+08:00#Project21<span style="font-size: large;">Well, day 9 into #project21!</span><br />
Well, if you've been wondering...Project 21 is a project which I've created. A countdown to the things I do before the day of my 21st birthday!<br />
Boarding the plane in 8 hours time. Time difference between<b> SIN</b> & <b>LON</b> is 7 hours. It should be 8 hours. But because of daylight saving it is 7 hours.<br />
Hope I won't have jet lag.<br />
Official first trip overseas alone.<br />
I will update you guys after my trip!!<br />
<br />
Till then, ciaos!<br />
<br />Heidihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05000892399893072442noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2527611553207535029.post-36077257815864922412013-09-15T11:42:00.000+08:002013-09-15T11:42:18.959+08:006 days of M A D N E S S!Alright, I'm finally back from <i>Melbourne, Australia</i>!<br />
One thing about Australia is that you need to fill up the Immigration form as you enter the country, and also when you leave the country. Both forms are quite similar. And don't forget, check if you require a visa!<br />
After you've cleared the customs, you can get into the city by taxi, bus or skybus. It's quite convenient. The terminals are just beside each other. So, from T2 (International flights), walk for 2-3 minutes and you'll be able to spot the Skybus ticket counter.<b> One way: AUD$17, Return: AUD$28.</b><br />
There are 2 stops. The stop where you are suppose to board the Skybus to the city will be the one behind the ticket counter. The stop in front of the ticket counter is for people to alight.<br />
20-30 mins ride to the city. And you will stop at Southern Cross Station. Once you've reached Southern Cross Station, and you can't find your way, it's fine! Just a 3-5 minutes walk towards the station, you will find a place called Traveller's something something. Can't remember the name. From there, you can ask for help! (:<br />
Anyway, I was quite surprised when I went to Australia. People there were friendly, and I didn't expect to see a lot of Asians there!<br />
Back to the topic.<br />
I went there to visit my friend whom I got to know 5 years ago in Poly.<br />
When I first stepped onto Southern Cross Station, ohhh man! It was cold! I was not used to the weather! From 30d.c to 13d.c. Wrapped in a trench coat, fleece jacket, jumper, shirt, and a scarf, I still feel colddddd~<br />
Some training before I head to London. Haha.<br />
<span style="font-size: large;">It was 6 days of MADNESS.</span> <i>6 days of lame jokes, 6 days of stuffing ourselves with food, 6 days of running after trains, 6 days of cold wind, 6 days of laughter, 6 days of each other's company!</i> Well, you got the idea here right?<br />
<span style="color: #f6b26b;">My friend told me Australia is an expensive place in terms of food, shopping, sightseeing, which is true.</span><br />
Here are some tips. If you wanna shop, you can get super cheap clothes as well. But you gotta know exactly where to go!<br />
For me, I got some pretty stretchable quality comfortable jeans at Dotti for AUD$15! That is if you go to "<i>Spencer Outlet</i>" at <b>Southern Cross Station</b>, or "<i>DFO</i>" at <b>South Wharf</b>. If you visit <i>Dotti</i> at other outlet, the price would be AUD$59.95 I think. My friend also recommended me to go to <b>Outer Harbour</b>. But I didn't get a chance to go there. If you have, you can check it out!<br />
<i>Some places I would recommend for girls to shop at:</i><br />
<b>Dotti</b><br />
<b>Valleygirl</b><br />
<b>Factorie</b><br />
<br />
For food: <i>Queen Victoria</i>. <span style="color: #f4cccc;">Go during weekends, and you will score yourself some fresh and cheap (A$10) seafood near the closing times.</span><br />
<br />
I think that's about it.<br />
Hope you find this post useful!<br />
Next up: <i>London</i>!Heidihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05000892399893072442noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2527611553207535029.post-15890204503853339972013-09-05T21:28:00.002+08:002013-09-05T21:29:12.801+08:00Don't be complacent!<span style="font-size: large;">2 more days before I fly to Melbourne! (:</span><br />
Today I received an email from <u>SingaporeAir.com</u> RE: my flight info. But I was wondering why they didn't send me the details RE: checking in. Because for my <b>HK</b> trip, they sent me 2 emails instead of just one.<br />
So during my break time at work, I went to <u>SingaporeAir.com</u> to check in. But I couldn't because there was a note stating that I don't have a valid visa so they couldn't check me in.<br />
My reaction was like WHAT?!?!?!? at that moment. I began to panic because thoughts of how my hopes would be dashed because of my complacency. Singapore passports allow Singaporeans to travel to a lot of countries without having to purchase a visa. So I assumed that I didn't need a visa to enter Australia.<br />
Anyway, I went to do some research, and made a few phone calls to the Australia Embassy situated in SG, and to <u>SingaporeAir</u>. And I was so blur as a sotong. I used my mobile phone instead of my laptop to purchase the visa. And because the font was so small and I was so worried, I saw wrongly and bought the wrong visa. I should be buying a ETA (Electronic Travel Authority) which lets you stay up to 90 days, and it can last for a year. It costs AUD20 and is instantly approved. But I went to buy the Visitor Visa. Takes from 1 day to 1 month to be approved. Let you stay from 3 months to 1 year. It costs: AUD130. So in the end, I bought both & I spend AUD150?!?!?! Arghhh!!!<br />
<span style="font-size: x-large;">So, ALWAYS ALWAYS check.</span><br />
It's such an irony. My itinerary is so detailed yet I missed out such an important detail!<br />
But the thing which I've learnt today is that God is my provider. Though I've lost this amount of money, but since God is my provider, He will definitely provide.<br />
<span style="color: #ea9999;">A blessing in disguise. I've saved the price of my air tickets and road trips though I've spent AUD130 to learn a lesson.</span><br />
<br />
<span style="color: #3d85c6;">"<i>Prayer is the answer to all your problems</i>." </span>Heidihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05000892399893072442noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2527611553207535029.post-53559571891962650342013-08-27T15:30:00.000+08:002013-08-27T15:30:03.263+08:00Struggles? Your guide is the Bible!Last week I've been feeling quite depressed.<div>
I feel like the past is back to haunt me.</div>
<div>
My insecurities coming back, negative thoughts clouding my mind.</div>
<div>
I sought the Lord.</div>
<div>
In the Bible, it says, "The Lord is near to all who call upon Him, to all who call upon Him in truth." -Psalm 145:18 (NASB).</div>
<div>
Then His promises begin to fill my mind.</div>
<div>
Everybody who lives on this earth will definitely have troubles and struggles in their lives. The key is whether you know who to turn to and who to seek.</div>
<div>
For me, I am glad because I know there is a God who loves me and cares for me. I can run to Him freely as & when I like. To be still & wait upon Him. Though I can't see Him, but I know He is there.</div>
<div>
"Faith is the confidence that what we hope for will actually happen; it gives us assurance about things we cannot see." -Hebrews 11:1 (NLT).</div>
<div>
I admit I can't do things on my own, however, I still know I can do it because..."For I can do everything through <b>Christ</b>, who gives me strength." -Philippians 4:13.</div>
<div>
Lastly, I just wanna share the verses which reminds me to love others.</div>
<div>
<div class="first-line-none chapter-2" style="background-color: white; font-size: 16px;">
<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;"><span class="text 1Cor-13-4" id="en-NLT-28630"><span class="versenum" style="font-size: 0.75em; font-weight: bold; vertical-align: top;">"4 </span>Love is patient and kind. Love is not jealous or boastful or proud</span> <span class="text 1Cor-13-5" id="en-NLT-28631"><span class="versenum" style="font-size: 0.75em; font-weight: bold; vertical-align: top;">5 </span>or rude. It does not demand its own way. It is not irritable, and it keeps no record of being wronged. </span><span class="text 1Cor-13-7" id="en-NLT-28633"><span class="versenum" style="font-size: 0.75em; font-weight: bold; vertical-align: top;">7 </span>Love never gives up, never loses faith, is always hopeful, and endures through every circumstance.</span></span></div>
<div style="background-color: white; font-size: 16px;">
<span class="text 1Cor-13-13" id="en-NLT-28639"><span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;"><span class="versenum" style="font-size: 0.75em; font-weight: bold; vertical-align: top;">13 </span>Three things will last forever—faith, hope, and love—and the greatest of these is love." -1 Corinthians 13 (NLT).</span></span></div>
<div style="background-color: white; font-size: 16px;">
<span class="text 1Cor-13-13"><span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span></span></div>
<div style="background-color: white; font-size: 16px;">
<span class="text 1Cor-13-13"><span style="color: #ea9999; font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">P.S. "<i>There is no fear in Love</i>." -1 John 4:18 (NIV).</span></span></div>
</div>
Heidihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05000892399893072442noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2527611553207535029.post-83050774686079214622013-08-23T14:19:00.003+08:002013-08-23T14:19:47.916+08:00Bringing joy to the elderly in the community!Saw 2 TV programs on Channel U, one is about this lady who owns a cafe mentioning about Singaporeans going overseas more often. Another one was our PM Lee who mentioned about building more buildings in Singapore. Then, this thought came into my mind about how blessed the younger generation in SG is.<div>
Many young people in SG have at least been to M'sia, USS or some attractions in SG.</div>
<div>
<span style="color: #999999;">However, I feel that our older generations are sometimes being forgotten...</span></div>
<div>
How many of the elderly have been to the places which I have mentioned above? I think only a minority of them.</div>
<div>
I have a dream to get sponsors to hire a bus and bring the elderly to the places.</div>
<div>
Well, I guess I have to work along this line.</div>
<div>
<span style="color: #ea9999;">Make this dream work step by step...</span></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<i>What about you? Do you have any plans to help the society?</i></div>
Heidihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05000892399893072442noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2527611553207535029.post-2937964632606048252013-08-16T11:47:00.001+08:002013-08-16T11:47:13.282+08:00The only difference...Earlier this week, I've had an unpleasant experience.<br />
<span style="color: #999999;">Getting scolded and insulted for something which is not even my fault.</span><br />
At that point of time, I realised I didn't have to go through all these scolding. Angry thoughts ran through my mind. I was tempted to scold the person back. But I didn't.<br />
I went to a corner and prayed to God.<br />
Then, I remembered my prayer to God that morning. <span style="color: #783f04;">"Jesus, please prune me."</span><br />
<b>God answers prayers.</b><br />
<i>In John 15:2 (NIV) it says "He cuts off every branch in me that bears no fruit, while every branch that does bear fruit he prunes so that it will be even more fruitful."</i><br />
It brought me to think about Jesus. What about Him? The things He faced are definitely million times worst than mine! Yet He still remain faithful.<br />
<i>The word of God says in Matthew 5:44 (NIV): "But I tell you, love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you,"</i><br />
As I begin to pray for my enemies, something amazing is happening. There will be this beautiful exchange.<br />
Till today as I write this post and think back about what has happened, there is no more hatred and anger in me. I have forgiven them! Because I know that the Beautiful Exchange has taken place.<br />
<br />
In the past before I came to know the Lord and accepted Him in my life, <span style="color: red;">I used to be a child who is always angry with people. Always finding fault with people. If someone has offended me, I will remember it in my heart, and whenever I see that person, there's this grudge in my heart.</span><br />
But today, I am a changed person! <i><span style="color: #ea9999; font-size: large;"><b>As long as you abide in Him, You will never go wrong.</b></span></i><br />
<br />
<span style="color: #ea9999;">P.S. The only difference...is that I have God in my life now. And I thank Him for that! (:</span>Heidihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05000892399893072442noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2527611553207535029.post-58562061549136849752013-08-11T17:30:00.000+08:002013-08-11T17:30:03.066+08:00The countdown never ends!<span style="color: blue;">27 days to seeing my friend in Melbourne!</span><br />
It's going to be my 2nd time on SQ flight. Hope they don't disappoint me the way they did for my HK trip.<br />
Really looking forward to all these traveling. I still remember clearly when I first took a plane ride, the plane had a turbulence. I was like enjoying the turbulence because it gave me a feeling of being on a roller coaster. Lols. But at that time I didn't know it was a turbulence lahhhh. Tsk. Don't judge me okays!<br />
Haha.<br />
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Anyways, after I'm back from Melbourne (I'll be there for 6 days), I'll be flying off in 3 days' time to LONDON!!!</span><br />
I know I can be quite irritating at times by constantly putting London trip London trip on my mouth. But I'm really really really excited to go to London <b>ALONE!</b> <span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">I can barely contain my excitement!!! =D</span><br />
<span style="color: #ea9999;">The good thing about Free & Easy trips is that you can squeeze whatever you like into your itinerary without having the need to discuss with anyone.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">The highlights of my London trip:</span><br />
Sherlock Holmes Museum <i>(I've always liked Sherlock Holmes since young)</i><br />
Bicester Village -- Luxury Shopping Outlet <i>(I've always wanted a Prada, at least a wallet will do?)</i><br />
Portobello Market <i>(The famous market situated at Notting Hill)</i><br />
Hyde Park <i>(Super <b>BIG</b> park with a lake where you could row a boat in it~)</i><br />
Ripley's Believe It or Not! <i>(I've only seen them on TV, now is the time to visit them!)</i><br />
Museums, museums, and <b>MORE FREE MUSEUMS!!!</b><br />
Hillsong London <i>(Church during vacation is something which I have never done before...)</i><br />
BBC Tour <i>(Touring the company during office hours with all the action going on behind the scene! Isn't it like cool?!)</i><br />
FOOD! <i>(Hummingbird Bakery, Laduree, Pierre Hermes, Amorino - Ice Cream shaped in a petal form!)</i><br />
<br />
<br />Heidihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05000892399893072442noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2527611553207535029.post-22710212556058857482013-08-06T20:36:00.002+08:002013-08-06T20:37:11.725+08:00Creating the Perfect Itinerary!Planning for a<i> Free & Easy holiday</i>? Then you definitely can't miss this post!<br />
Today's topic is all about creating the <i>perrrrrrr-fect</i> itinerary!<br />
It's just a guide though. Based on my few Free & Easy trips over the past few years! (:<br />
<span style="color: #ea9999;">My humble opinions...</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">All right, let's begin right now!</span><br />
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These are my few sample itineraries from my previous trips...</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Basically, before you begin your itinerary, these are the few things you need to do!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
</div>
<ol>
<li>Pick your destination (The most egg-citing part!)</li>
<li>List down the things which you plan to do (eg: Beaches, sightseeing, shopping?)</li>
</ol>
<div>
<span style="color: #666666;">Now that you've got these things all sorted out, open up your Microsoft Word to draw up a rough guide on what you plan to do and also to select your layout</span> <span style="color: #999999;">(With/without outlines)</span></div>
<div>
A few websites which I like to go & would recommend is the country's official Tourism website, and <b>TripAdvisor</b> for where to go for <i>sightseeing.</i></div>
<div>
<b>Virtual Tourist</b> for <span style="color: red;"><i>Tourist traps, warnings and advice</i>.</span></div>
<div>
<b>Google Maps</b> for how to proceed to my destination. Google Maps is pretty interesting I feel. Because I can see where I am going to stay and how to navigate around the place I'm going without actually being there! <span style="font-size: large;">Fantastic!</span></div>
<div>
<b>Forums</b> to see where to <i>shop!</i> Muahahahaha...</div>
<div>
<b>Government websites</b> to get the <span style="color: #e06666;">necessary information on my country's embassy, the local police contact number/police station, and hospital/clinics/ pharmacy, not forgetting transport & local SIM costs.</span></div>
Heidihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05000892399893072442noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2527611553207535029.post-87084373724532560912013-08-02T15:10:00.000+08:002013-08-02T15:10:00.437+08:00What to pack for your trip?Hi there!<div>
Back for more travel tips again? (:</div>
<div>
I realised a lot of packing videos I've watched tells me how to pack efficiently. In other words, how to squeeze your whole house into a luggage!!!</div>
<div>
However, that's not what I believe most people are looking for right?</div>
<div>
Imagine opening your luggage to a whole lot of mess.</div>
<div>
<span style="color: red; font-size: large;">NOOOOOOOOO!!!</span></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://wwwdelivery.superstock.com/WI/223/1647/PreviewComp/SuperStock_1647R-155721.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="213" src="http://wwwdelivery.superstock.com/WI/223/1647/PreviewComp/SuperStock_1647R-155721.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: #cccccc;">Image from Superstock</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div>
So, here are some tips to help those out there!</div>
<div>
First, what are the things you will be bringing?</div>
<div>
For me, the items essential for my Check-In luggage will be...</div>
<div>
<ol>
<li>Toiletries</li>
<li>Day Outfits</li>
<li>Sleeping Clothes</li>
<li>Chargers</li>
<li>Devotion Book</li>
<li>Slippers (Optional)</li>
<li>Make Up bag (Optional)</li>
<li>Extra pair of shoes (Optional)</li>
<li>Swimsuits (Optional)</li>
<li>Accessories (Optional)</li>
</ol>
Now that you know what you wanna bring, have a <i>system</i>!</div>
<div>
<span style="color: red;">The thing I hate the most about travelling is having your clothes mixed with your gifts, food, etc.</span></div>
<div>
So, for those out there who feels the same as I do, I will advise you guys to purchase one of these.</div>
<div>
<a href="http://www.muji.com.sg/products/household/health--beauty/travel?pid=1229">Classification Case For Travel Double Type</a></div>
<div>
It's kinda convenient. You can put both your clean clothes & dirty clothes because there's a divider to separate them.</div>
<div>
<span style="color: #ea9999;">Also, pack for clothes in outfits, from the ones you are going to wear first on the top, followed by those you are going to wear at a later date below. So it will be easier for you to take your clothes. Save time!</span></div>
<div>
<i>Other than that, you can group them together...</i></div>
<div>
<u>Clothes one bag.</u></div>
<div>
<u>Toiletries + Chargers + Slippers/Shoes = One bag.</u></div>
<div>
<u><b>It's also advisable for you to bring extra bags for the other things you might purchase during your trip.</b></u></div>
<div>
<span style="color: #999999;">In case if any custom officers want to open your luggage to check them, it will be easier for you to pack them.</span></div>
<div>
That's all for today!</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
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Ciao! (:</div>
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<br /></div>
<div>
P.S. Checklist! (:</div>
Heidihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05000892399893072442noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2527611553207535029.post-26463893492353094542013-07-30T12:48:00.000+08:002013-07-30T12:48:10.260+08:00Keep that fire burning for God in your heart!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<iframe allowfullscreen='allowfullscreen' webkitallowfullscreen='webkitallowfullscreen' mozallowfullscreen='mozallowfullscreen' width='320' height='266' src='https://www.youtube.com/embed/6jdKfbx9Dao?feature=player_embedded' frameborder='0'></iframe></div>
<b>Revival by Soulfire Revolution</b> <i>(feat. Kim Walker-Smith)</i><br />
<br />
<span style="color: #ea9999;"><i>Will you be that salt & light of the world that God has called you to be?</i></span>Heidihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05000892399893072442noreply@blogger.com0