Which hotel to book for Axiata Arena, Kuala Lumpur concert goer

One of my idol is going on a world tour soon. however, his world tour concert plan did not include Singapore. I wanted to wait for him to include Singapore before I attend his concert. however, I suddenly realised that I should just go for it after he has cancel his London concert because he fell sick and it affect his voice. Life is short and I should not just take for granted that he will come to Singapore. So I just decided to go for it. 

The nearest venue is Kuala Lumpur. I have been to Kuala Lumpur before but I have never look at the map or planned anything in Malaysia before. I was always being ferried around, thanks to my dearest aunties and uncles. However, since this is my secret solo trip (only my son knows what is happening), I have to do some planning so that I will not be lost.

His tickets are not easy to get. So my plan is to book the hotel first once he announce the dates of his concert. The hotel that I booked must allow free cancellation just in case I could not get the tickets.

As for the flight tickets, I think I will hold on until I get the tickets. You cannot get full refund for plane tickets. I am thinking, if plane tickets are too expensive, I may take a bus from Singapore to Kuala Lumpur instead. I will see how it goes.

Considering how to get back to hotel safety after the concert at night. considering the crowd, taking a taxi may be not feasible considering the number of people trying to get a cab. prices for grab may be too high as the sudden demand after the concert. 

There is a train station near Axiata Arena Stadium. the train station is named Bukit Jalil.

 
If you are going to the concert solo, You may want to consider a hotel which is 4 stars and above. Hyatt Place is 4 stars hotel which is considering quite near to Axiata Arena Stadium. It is also near Pavilion Bukit Jalil, a premier shopping and lifestyle destination. However, the nearest train station is Awan Besar LRT Station, 950 meter or Muhibbah LRT Station, 1.3km. That means you may have to walk 950m from Awan Besar LRT Station to your hotel at night. 

Another alternative is to stay at Bukit Bintang central where there is plenty of hotels and shopping. The only disadvantage is that you have to transfer to another train to get to Bukit Bintang Central. From Bukit Jalil LRT beside Axiata Arena Stadium (brown line: LRT Sri Petaling Line), change to the Light green line (KL Monorail Line) at Hang Tuah Station, then alight at Bukit Bintang Station. According to Google map, the whole journey is around 51 minutes. So if the concert ended at 10:30pm, You may reach Bukit Bintang Station at around 11:30pm.

KL Train Map: https://maps-kuala-lumpur.com/kl-lrt-map
Train routes from Bukit Jalil to Bukit Bintang: https://maps.app.goo.gl/ivnVcp9P1CpepZej8

 

Someone on the internet also suggested to book hotel at Sri Petaling area, which is a walkable distance from the Stadium. As there will be a lot of people leaving the stadium, there will be a lot of people walking towards that area. According to Google map, it will be roughly a 30 min walk. I have decided to go with this option. As my idol have not announce his concert dates, based on all the concerts announce before his Kuala Lumpur concert, I have made a guess and decided to book for 2 weekends in April. It was only when started look for hotels room for that 2 weekends, I realised some crazy fans, as crazy as me, have already did their hotel booking. A lot of hotels were fully booked. So I just go ahead and booked 2 hotels with different dates that allow for free cancelling, just in case I did not manage to get tickets. 

The dates that I have selected also take into consideration that in case 1 show is fully booked, and my idol decided to add another show. I will reach Kuala Lumpur on Saturday and leave on Monday. I just pray hard that he dun add a show on Friday. If he really do that, I may have to look for another hotel for just that 1 day.

I also trying to check how much will it cost if I fly to Kuala Lumpur to and fro. The air tickets are really expensive on those weekends. 
The cost of the tickets without miles redeem is SGD$189. If I will to use miles, I will still have to pay SGD$90.20. Since this is just an hour flight, I am not sure if I want to spend that $90. 

I am also thinking if I should take a bus back to Singapore instead of taking a plane. The nearest bus station in Bukit Bintang to Singapore is at Berjaya Times Square, which is quite near to the 4 stars hotel that I am hoping to stay. It will cost lesser if I take a bus back to Singapore. 

 

Upon checking, I realised that KKKL bus cost SGD$38 per trip. I also know that it may be cheaper if I get the tickets in Malaysia. However, I think I do not want to take the risk that there is no bus on the day. So $38 with return tickets is $76.


Singapore airline, 1 hour (total 2 hours with return) = $90
KKKL bus, 5 hour (total 10 hours with return) = $76
The differences is $14 for 8 hours more. 

I think I will go with the flight. I hope the cost of flying will not increase after I get the concert tickets. I will have to immediately book the flight tickets once the concert tickets is confirmed. 

Edit: I wasn’t able to secure tickets to his concert even after an extra show was added. Thankfully, I hadn’t booked any flights yet. I’ve just gone ahead and cancelled all my hotel reservations, so no real losses there.
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How to go to KSL City Mall from Johore Bahru Checkpoint via Public Transport

To travel from the Johore Bahru Checkpoint (Johor Bahru Customs, Immigration, and Quarantine Complex, CIQ) to KSL City Mall using public transport, follow these steps:

After clearing customs at the CIQ (Johor Bahru Sentral), walk towards the JB Sentral Bus Terminal. You will have to either take a lift or an escalator down to the bus terminal.

Look for the bus "F100". 

Both routes operate between JB Sentral and KSL City Mall. The ticket cost RM$1.50 for each person,  to be paid when you board the bus. The bus journey typically takes about 10–15 minutes, depending on traffic conditions. The bus will drop you at the KSL City Mall entrance drop off point.

To travel from KSL City Mall to Johore Bahru Checkpoint, here's how you can do it using public transport:

Go to the KSL City Mall entrance drop off point, the same place that you alighted earlier. You may see a queue from the drop-off point to the inside of the shopping mall.

Board bus "F100", which will take you directly to JB Sentral, where the CIQ (customs) is located.

This time, the ticket fare is RM$1.40 per person, payable upon boarding the bus. Passengers can pay using cash to the bus driver, a Visa card, or a Manjalink card (a popular transportation smart card in Malaysia).

The ticket on the left is the one I purchased for the trip from JB Sentral to KSL City Mall, which cost RM$1.50. The ticket on the right is for the return journey from KSL City Mall to JB Sentral, and it cost RM$1.40.

Please be advised that on every Monday, the pickup location for bus F100 at KSL City Mall will be moved to the entrance near KFC and Pizza Hut after 3:20 pm. This change is due to the night market held outside the shopping mall on every Monday.


Updated on 19 December 2024.
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Discover Singapore's Dogs and Cats Cafés: A Pet Lover's Guide

Are you an animal lover seeking a unique café experience in Singapore? Look no further! Discover the city's top dogs and cats cafés, where you can enjoy delicious treats while surrounded by adorable furry friends.

In the fast-paced urban landscape of Singapore, finding a place to relax and unwind can be challenging, especially for pet lovers who may not have the space or time to care for their own furry companions. Fortunately, dogs and cats cafés provide the perfect solution for those craving the company of pets without the commitment of ownership. These cafés offer a welcoming environment where visitors can interact with friendly dogs and cats while enjoying a cup of coffee or tea.

Meomi Cat Café:
Indulge in a purr-fectly charming experience at Meomi Cat Café, situated at 668 North Bridge Road, Singapore 188801. The café's operating hours may vary, so it's advisable to PM for reservations. Meomi Cat Café welcomes feline enthusiasts of all ages, with a few guidelines to ensure a safe and enjoyable visit. Children must be at least 7 years old with a photo ID (passport/student pass) for age verification, and those below the age of 13 should be accompanied by an adult. Immerse yourself in a world of whiskers and warmth at Meomi Cat Café.

What The Pug Dog Café:


Discover the delightful world of pugs at What The Pug Dog Cafe, located at 80 Haji Lane, Singapore 189271. Open from Tuesday to Sunday, 12:00 PM to 7:00 PM (Closed on Mondays), this cozy spot offers an exclusive experience for pug enthusiasts. For just $25 per person from Tuesday to Friday, or $28 per person on Saturday and Sunday, guests can enjoy a 45-minute petting session, a complimentary drink, and a memorable polaroid photo. Remember, tickets can only be purchased via this website only, so book your spot today for a paws-itively wonderful time!

The Live Turtle and Tortoise Museum:
For those who prefer reptilian companionship, The Live Turtle and Tortoise Museum at 81 Lor Chencharu #01-16, Singapore 769198 is a must-visit destination. Home to a diverse array of turtles and tortoises, this unique museum offers an educational and enriching experience for visitors of all ages. Operating daily from 10 am to 6 pm, with the exception of Tuesdays, this museum warmly welcomes guests on all public holidays. However, do note that the last entry is at 5:40 pm. 

For Singapore citizens and permanent residents, children aged 3 to 6 years enjoy entry for $6.00, while those aged 7 years and above are charged $10.00. Seniors aged 60 years and above are granted admission at a reduced rate of $6.00. Conversely, non-Singapore citizens and permanent residents encounter slightly higher fees: Children aged 3 to 6 years are required to pay $10.00, while individuals aged 7 years and above are charged $14.00 for entry.

The big benefit of visiting dogs and cats cafés in Singapore is the opportunity to experience the joy and companionship of animals in a relaxing setting. Whether you're a dog person, a cat person, or both, these cafés offer a unique and memorable experience that will leave you feeling refreshed and rejuvenated. So why wait? Plan your visit to a dogs and cats café today and indulge in the love and affection of furry friends!

Updated on 4 March 2024.
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Reflections 2023

In 2023, I successfully tackled the challenge of learning the third piece for my piano exam in 2024. Although not flawless, the process seemed more efficient compared to my previous grade 5 exam. Unlike many, I prefer not to publicly share my New Year resolutions due to the fear of potential embarrassment if I fall short. However, I'm breaking that habit this year to set clear goals for 2024.

My primary objective is to achieve distinction in my grade 6 piano exam. Simultaneously, I aim to generate a monthly income from my online venture while implementing strategies to reduce my overall expenses. Additionally, I aspire to cultivate more confidence and positivity in my personal and professional life.

Reflecting on my travels in 2023, they were all within Malaysia. Highlights included a company trip to Malacca and a 9-day road trip spanning Johore Bahru, Kuala Lumpur, Ipoh, Kuantan, Mersing, and Kulai. However, these experiences were marked by health challenges.

My legs and feet swelled, leading to a biopsy that revealed leukocytoclastic vasculitis. Further complications arose, including blurry vision, attributed to dry eyes. Although initial suspicions pointed to rheumatoid arthritis, subsequent expensive blood tests yielded negative results. Despite this, my doctor suggests Sjogren's Syndrome may be the culprit and recommended a mouth biopsy, which I declined. The journey involved weeks of steroid treatment, with occasional setbacks, but overall, I'm on the path to recovery.


In the professional realm, a crisis unfolded in one of my projects at work. Though not my fault, it affected everyone, creating a chaotic atmosphere with agitated bosses and increased workloads.

Meanwhile, my mother faced a health scare with glaucoma, requiring urgent hospitalization. The situation added stress, as I couldn't take leave to care for her. Fortunately, her day surgery went smoothly, but complications arose from eye drops, causing high blood pressure. The ongoing concern prompted further hospital visits.

Amidst these challenges, I embarked on my entrepreneurial journey with Keepsake Printable. A critical situation arose when I lost access to my website dashboard after updating plugins, causing panic. Resolving the issue required disabling all plugins and gradually reactivating them, a process that brought my site back to life. During the downtime, thoughts of migrating to Shopify to streamline operations crossed my mind, considering the time-consuming nature of crisis management and coding. As I weigh the pros and cons, the idea of concentrating on product creation and marketing gains appeal, making a platform shift a serious consideration for the future.

As I bid farewell to the rollercoaster that was 2023, I carry with me the lessons learned from the highs of musical achievements, the lows of health struggles, and the resilience discovered in navigating professional and entrepreneurial challenges. Looking ahead to 2024, I face the new year with a determination to conquer my piano exam, meet financial goals, and continue the journey of self-improvement. With each twist and turn, I find solace in the belief that every setback is an opportunity for growth, and every challenge is a stepping stone toward a brighter, more harmonious future. Here's to embracing the melody of possibilities in the upcoming chapters of my journey.

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Free Expenses Tracker Excel

Check out my Free Expenses Tracker Excel – a system I've developed and improved over the years to help me keep tabs on my spending. I've tweaked it for a broader audience, and you can easily download and customize it to fit your lifestyle. Even though I don't have a second child or a car, I've included related expenses in the sheet. Also, I had a dream of winning a million dollars in the lottery, but I set the cell limit at $888,888 to keep things neat. I hope you find this Free Expenses Tracker Excel useful for your needs.



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The plants arrived

So, I went all out and got myself a bunch of plants, and let me tell you, they're a mixed bag of surprises. First off, we've got this dracaena marginata that's seriously stunning and seriously tall. But here's the kicker – its pot is practically a dumbbell. I'm not kidding, it's so heavy that even a weightlifter would think twice about lifting it.

But hold on, the dracaena isn't the only heavyweight here. These other plants I got aren't exactly small fries either. That $80 delivery fee? Totally worth it, because there's no way me and KJ could have lugged these bad boys home. They're all chilling in these decent-sized ceramic pots, and man, those pots pack a punch – they're heavy-duty.

Okay, so I'm stoked about these plants finally making it to my place, but now comes the tricky part. Turns out, some of them – like the Adenium obesum (Desert rose) and Calamansi – are sun worshippers. And guess what? I don't exactly have a sunny spot to spare, unless I stick them on the air-con ledge. But here's the catch – if mosquitoes start breeding there, I'm the prime suspect, even if it's not my doing!

Now, let's talk about the newcomers in my plant posse:

Alocasia Amazonica: This is the one that kicked off my plant spree. It's picky about light, water, and everything in between. Handling it feels like navigating a botanical minefield. Low to bright indirect light. Do not let the sunlight falls on it, it will get sun burn easily. Water it when the top soil are dry, they do not like to be soggy but prefer to be partially dry out. Love nutrient rich potting soil, give compost. Love humidity. All Araceae are toxic to pets. Can be sensitive to salts, minerals, and chlorine in tap water, let water sit for 24 hours before giving to Alocasia Amazonica, or use distill water.

Adenium obesum (Desert Rose): A sun-craving beauty that doesn't need frequent watering. Patience and precision are my new best friends.

Citrus hinsii, Hong Kong Kumquat: These guys want both water and sun. It's like a daily ritual of getting their hydration and light doses just right.

Dracaena Marginata: The star of the show that made the delivery cost seem worth it. Balancing light levels and soil dampness is now my jam. It prefers a bright or lightly shaded spot but will also tolerate lower light levels but not for too long. It likes moist compost. Let the soil dry in between watering. If the leaves are drooping. Try to water from the bottom of the pot. Use distill water only.

Phalaenopsis Orchid: I've got two of these, and let me tell you, they're divas. High-maintenance and fancy, they demand attention and the art of orchid pampering. Oh my god, I have never take care of Orchid before, I hope they do not die under my care. Damn it, this are high maintenance plants. The leaves needs to be kept dry all the time indoor. Spray water with fertilzer on the roots in the morning, afternoon and evening. roots needs to be dry within mintues. Prefers indirect bright lights.

Aglaomorpha Ferns: These shade lovers are chill with less water – a nice break from the high-maintenance crew.

Gymnocalycium Soglionis Cactus: This cactus is like a sun-shy introvert. Too much sun, and it throws a tantrum. Gotta find its sweet spot.

Ficus Microcarpa: Future tree alert! It needs sunlight, but not the scorching kind. Watering it once a week is the deal. Full Sun, Semi-Shade, prefers almost six hours of sunlight. However, the hottest hours' direct sunlight is not ideal. Indirect sunlight is the best option.  Water once per week.

Ponderosa Lemon: Another wannabe tree. It's all about sunlight and water here – they're like its lifelines. Water two to three times weekly.

So, I've got a total of ten pots now, each with its own quirks and demands. It's like a whole neighborhood of green characters, and I'm the mayor trying to keep everyone happy.

I'll be sharing updates on how my plant family is doing as I figure out this whole plant-parenting gig. And if you've got any tips or stories about your own plant escapades, hit me up – I'm all ears. After all, it takes a village to raise a bunch of plants!

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Good Friday

So, this Good Friday turned out to be way more eventful and stressful for me than I bargained for, and let me tell you, it's all my own doing. I can't blame anyone else but myself.

It all started innocently enough—I stumbled upon someone giving away free plants. Now, who doesn't love freebies, right? Little did I know, I was signing up for a plant bonanza that would have me questioning my life choices.

I eagerly seized the opportunity without realizing the magnitude of the task at hand. It was only when the generous plant donor mentioned that one of the plants was as tall as him that I almost fainted. Cue panic mode.

Now, the challenge was how to transport these green giants. I looked into using Lalamove for a reasonable $28, but alas, the vehicles were too short for my newfound arboreal friends.

Frantically, I scoured the internet for last-minute solutions. Most delivery companies had already closed shop for the day, and the ones that responded either had no Saturday slots or were asking a whopping $100 for packing and delivery. I mean, come on, I wasn't planning on spending a hundred bucks on free plants.

As I grappled with feeling both stupid and stressed, I vowed to stop buying plants and save money. Irony, however, had other plans. Free plants, it turns out, can be more expensive than the ones you buy.

I couldn't back out of the deal—I had given my word, even if it was to a stranger. The stress levels were rising, and I was now fixated on how to pack these plants without causing harm. My Google search history was a desperate plea for packing tips and creative ways to fit towering plants into compact vehicles.

The struggle continued, with me contemplating spending $28 just to potentially harm a tall plant in front of its current owner. The mental image of him opening his mouth wide, shaking his head, and regretting his decision to gift me those plants haunted me.

Round two with Lalamove brought a taller vehicle, but at the cost of $85.50. The driver wouldn't pack for me, but he agreed to assist in moving the plants from door to door. Fingers crossed, right?

I even shot off emails to a few other delivery companies, hoping for a more budget-friendly option than Lalamove. All the while, I had to get my packing materials game on point, because looking stupid tomorrow was not on my agenda. Spoiler alert: I'm still stressed out.

And then, the realization hit—I have a piano lesson tomorrow, and I haven't practiced. While I'm juggling plant-packing logistics, I'm also trying to figure out how to squeeze in some piano time. Stress level? Through the roof.

To add insult to injury, the weather forecast for tomorrow predicts a thunderstorm. Just what I needed.

Lesson learned, folks. I need to save money, but I also need to be smarter about it. Here's hoping I don't find myself in another plant-related predicament anytime soon. Cheers to stress-free adventures!

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Malacca Trip

This trip was primarily for business purposes, so I won't delve into the details of our company-related activities. Once we arrived in Malacca, however, our "non-office" agenda kicked in, spanning from our hotel check-in until dinner time. I had dinner and breakfast with my colleagues, and in this video, I'll outline our itinerary for the first day.

We began by checking into our hotel room at Hatten Hotel Melaka, followed by a brief exploration of the hotel. Later, we enjoyed a dinner buffet within the hotel premises before venturing out to Jonker Street and A Famosa for a short visit. The evening concluded with my colleagues and I having a rooftop drinking session back at the hotel.


On the subsequent day, my morning began at 6:30 am, as I eagerly embarked on a walk to A Famosa and Jonker Street once more. I was determined to witness the daytime splendor of these renowned landmarks. During my leisurely stroll, I passed by Muzium Samudera, where an impressive replica of a giant ship was prominently displayed, adding to the charm of the surroundings. After immersing myself in the sights, I made my way back to the hotel to enjoy a hearty breakfast.


Following breakfast, our group headed to the shopping mall located opposite our hotel, seizing the opportunity for some last-minute shopping. It was a chance to pick up souvenirs or any items of interest before concluding our time in Malacca. Once our shopping escapade was complete, we couldn't resist returning to Jonker Street, marking my third visit in just two days. This time, we indulged in the famous Malacca chicken rice balls, savoring their unique flavors. We also took the opportunity to do some final shopping, ensuring we made the most of our time in this vibrant location.

This office trip was incredibly meaningful to me, despite its short duration, because it marked my first-ever experience of such kind. I had often felt unfortunate when it came to office trips in the past, as either my previous company failed to organize any or faced financial limitations that hindered such endeavors. Consequently, I had resigned myself to the idea that participating in an office trip abroad was beyond my reach.

However, all of that changed when this wonderful opportunity materialized. It reignited my hope and brought immense joy to my heart. Now, I can genuinely say that I am truly happy to have been a part of this office trip. Its significance goes far beyond its brevity, and it has left an indelible mark on me.

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Merry Christmas 2022

Merry Christmas and Happy New Year!

Yes, this year I decorated Stinky and Sticky tanks for Christmas again. It was kind of last minute as I was extremely busy toward the end of 2022. 

This year, I was planning to buy a tall Christmas tree, but I decided against it. I need to consider the space in my storeroom. I don't mind taking out and putting back the Christmas tree since I've done the same with all my Christmas decorations. However, I am more worried about my expenses this year. Too much money has been spent. Perhaps it is due to the Europe trip and the piano I brought in 2022. In any case, I like the Christmas decorations on their tank. I think I will do it again in 2023.




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Europe Trip Day 10: Stuttgart, Germany | Porsche Museum | Mercedes-Benz Museum

In the early morning, we took a train from Innsbruck to Munich, where we transferred onto another train bound for Stuttgart. By the time we arrived, it was already noon. Visiting Stuttgart was a key part of our Europe trip, especially for two iconic destinations: the Porsche Museum and the Mercedes-Benz Museum.

From Stuttgart Central Station, we headed directly to the Porsche Museum to start our adventure.

Reaching the Porsche Museum in Stuttgart is straightforward and convenient. The museum is located in the Zuffenhausen district, easily accessible by public transport. From Stuttgart's main train station, take the S-Bahn line S6 towards Weil der Stadt and get off at the "Neuwirtshaus/Porscheplatz" station, which is a short walk from the museum entrance. 

We brought the tickets for adults at €10 (SGD$14.50) per person. They do have discounted rates of €5 for students and seniors. Children under the age of 14 enjoy free entry, making it a budget-friendly option for families. Do check the current cost of tickets to the Porsche Museum here. 

The Porsche Museum in Stuttgart offers a sleek, immersive experience into the world of one of Germany's most iconic car brands. Housed in a strikingly modern building, the museum showcases over 80 vehicles, from early prototypes to legendary racing cars, tracing Porsche’s history and evolution. Visitors can explore interactive exhibits, marvel at engineering masterpieces, and even take a glimpse into the brand's future. The museum not only celebrates Porsche's technical innovations but also its impact on automotive culture, making it a must-visit for car enthusiasts and history buffs alike.

after our visit to the Porsche Museum, we decided to head straight to the Mercedes-Benz Museum. 

Getting from the Porsche Museum to the Mercedes-Benz Museum in Stuttgart is straightforward. Start by taking the S-Bahn from "Neuwirtshaus (Porscheplatz)" station, near the Porsche Museum, and head towards Stuttgart Hauptbahnhof. From there, switch to the S-Bahn line S1 towards Plochingen, and exit at the "Neckarpark (Mercedes-Benz)" station. The museum is just a short walk away, well-signposted and easy to find. The entire journey takes around 30 minutes, making it easy to explore both museums in a single day.

We brought the tickets for adults at €12 (SGD$17.44) per person. Students, seniors, and those with disabilities can enjoy discounted admission at €6. Children under 14 can enter for free, making it an accessible option for families. Do check the current cost of tickets to the Mercedes-Benz Museum here. 

The Mercedes-Benz Museum in Stuttgart is a captivating journey through the history of one of the world’s most renowned automotive brands. Spanning over 130 years of innovation, the museum displays more than 160 vehicles, from the earliest motorcars to futuristic concept models. Designed in a unique spiral layout, visitors descend through time, exploring exhibits that highlight Mercedes-Benz’s role in shaping both luxury and everyday driving. With interactive displays and impressive architecture, the museum offers an engaging experience that brings the brand’s legacy of engineering excellence and cutting-edge design to life.

For our 2022 Europe trip, we spent an incredible 12 days exploring the beautiful countries of Germany, the Czech Republic, and Austria. Here’s a day-by-day rundown of how we organized our adventure across these three captivating destinations.

Day 11 & 12: Frankfurt, Germany | Flying back to Singapore in Airbus A350
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