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TheJessicat - Extractions of a Disoriented Mind
  • Entertainment
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    • Nightlife/Parties
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  • Beauty
    • Hair
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Our little weekend escape to the mountains of Cameron Highlands!

December 26, 2014 by thejessicat

 

We’re all almost at the finishing line of 2014, and if I allow the year to end without at least travelling somewhere for a holiday, I’d say my year would feel awfully incomplete.

Well, I did travel all the way to Borneo a few months ago, albeit being for work-related reasons. That doesn’t exactly count as a holiday, does it? Also travelled to the usual Penang & Ipoh for short retreats with the family but then again, neither would I consider going back to both my hometowns a ‘holiday’ per se, either.

 

 

Moo and I are most probably heading to the Philippines next year (for our 1st anniversary!) but we figured hey, why let this year pass without a holiday too? Laughing

So here we are, ending our year with a roadtrip up to the hills of Cameron Highlands!

 

 

Evidently all pumped up for our journey: Fuel? Check. Snacks? Check. Rave playlist? Check. Sunnies? Check and check!

We hit the road just before 11AM from Kuala Lumpur. Ha Ha

 

 

Sunny skies and pretty clouds ahead! Big Smile

The weather was absolutely perfect and inviting; almost as if today was destined for a roadtrip!

 

 

Traffic was pretty heavy on the North-South highway, considering that it was already the school holidays. (Not in the picture above… the gridlock started an hour after this picture was taken)

Before we knew it, our bright & sunny journey turned into a gloomy thunderstorm. Frown

 

 

It certainly did not help as the temperature heading up to the highlands began to drop rather quickly. Brr!!

My parents were horrified upon learning that we took the Tapah exit route up as it was known for its narrow and winding road up the cliffs. Yell Moo was extra cautious with his driving and he did a swell job at maneuvering up the slippery terrains!

 

 

I too, was a little worried when I saw several landslide areas, fallen trees & branches as well as flooded sections on our road. One wrong move and anyone would plunge into the ravine. Certainly a very dangerous route!

No photos because our eyes were fixated to focus on the road but it looked a little like this:

 

 Imagine this + thunderstorm + foggy windows + slippery muddy ground

 

Pro-tip: To anyone heading up to Cameron Highlands, please do yourselves a favour and avoid the Tapah exit route up at all costs.

Use the Simpang Pulai exit instead! Wink (We used the latter on our way down)

 

 

After 4 hours (Geez! I didn’t know it would take THIS long! Must’ve been the storm + heavy traffic!), we arrived safely at the first township called Ringlet. It looked like a little ordinary, small town, with banks, markets, retail shophouses and the like.

 

 

Looking for Heritage Hotel was an uphill task (haha! Geddit, geddit?) as neither of us were familiar with Cameron Highlands and I didn’t have reception to get directions on Waze. Cry

 

 

A quick call to hotel got us there in no time. Oh Really?

We proceeded straight up to another town called Tanah Rata, which was about another 10KM up another inclined route.

 

 

The Tudor-revival architectural style of Heritage Hotel made it a breeze to spot the moment we arrived Tanah Rata. Laughing

It was so Christmas-themed already! Love it.

 

Merry early Christmas!

 

Glancing up to the ceiling gave me a fuzzy, familiar feeling of Melbourne’s Flinders Street Station.

 

Checking in was a breeze and the hotel staff were friendly and accommodating.

The bellboy ushered us to our deluxe room on the 5th floor too.

 

We were happy with our room – it was clean, spacious and well-equipped! Smile

 

 

So what’s the first thing you do upon entering a hotel room?

Check out le springy bed! Haha. I’ve done this on every holiday this since I was a kid capable of jumping.

 

Dec 7, 2014 | When on #holiday, what’s the first thing YOU do when you reach your #hotel room? #silly by imthejessicat on Keek.com

 

 

After settling down, we took a moment to enjoy the tranquillity of our surroundings from all the way up here.

The breeze and the misty, still air amidst the lush greenery of hills, mountains and nature were what we sought after on this trip after all.

 

 

 

After settling down, freshening up and watching PIXAR’s A Bug’s Life on FOX movies (moo hasn’t watched it before and I insisted he did because it was one of my favorites as a kid! I was so glad he enjoyed the movie too), we headed downtown to see what Tanah Rata has to offer. Smile

Just as we were about to adjourn, I took a nostalgic reflection of my surroundings.

 

The moderately chilly climate with a wind so mild yet cool and comforting.

The trees. The gloomy weather that never seems to see the light of day. 

It made me smile in recollection of my stint in Melbourne.

Oh, how I miss thee. Cry

 Off to town! We wound down the windows and switched off the air-conditioning.

Who needs the A/C when you have the natural, cool air all around you? Haha.

 

 

Arrived Tanah Rata township!

 

 

Oh there’s a Starbucks here too!

 

So… what’s for lunch/tea/dinner? Laughing

I excitedly led us to Lord’s Cafe for their scones and chicken pies.

 

 

After perusing the menu, moo didn’t exactly consider pies and scoes a ‘proper’ heavy meal… especially since we haven’t had our breakfast nor lunch yet. It was already 5PM! 🙁

 

 

So we had to awkwardly shift ourselves out the door and told them we would come back later for dessert or a snack. (More of this later and why I got extremely upset)

 

We walked a few doors down to another cafe – My Cake House.

 

As I’ve always been a fan of al-fresco dining, I especially loved the ambiance surrounding Tanah Rata’s restaurants. It was breezy, open-aired and overlooking the roads below.

 

 

Here’s what we ordered. Don’t judge. Hit with Brick

We were starving.

 

 Some starchy mains… oh god why.

So guilty! Yell

 

 Oh hello beautiful flower sitting right beside me!

No, you do not make me feel better.

 

Who goes to a cake cafe without eating… of course… cakes?

Being chocolate fanatics, moo and I ordered the chocolate cakes variants. Cool

 

 Chocolate Cake

 

 Coffee flavoured cheesecake

 

 

Compared to everything we’ve ordered, the brownie with ice-cream takes the cake!

Oh and btw, it doesn’t come with ice-cream. Moo had to request with additional charges.

 

After a heavy meal, chilling out and much chitter-chatter, we were *still* too full to eat at Lord’s Cafe.

Decided to go for a foot massage (reflexology) instead.

 

 

It was a rather enlightening session as my masseuse was very friendly, intelligent and speaks fluent English & Chinese.

That dude in blue in the picture above was moo’s masseur. Tongue Out Quite a grumpy fellow but he sure knows his technique! 

 

Apparently, there are many massage parlours in town with illegal immigrants/foreign workers without permits that offers dodgy, and ‘extra services’ for a fee. Well, I’m glad that Palace Reflexology Centre is a legit and decent one!

 

The massages were of skillful techniques, very hygienic and professionally done.

We’d definitely vouch for it.

 

Even after all that, we were still full to the brim and didn’t feel like stuffing in any more food for the night. I guess we’ll save Lord’s Cafe for the next morning then. (Got upset again for having to postpone it! Yell)

 

A little bit of gallivanting around town later saw us shopping at the night markets too.

 

 

We bought an adorable fluffy husky snowhat (for me obviously!) and a berry-flavoured cigar, before deciding to head back to the hotel.

 

We were greeted to a magnificent view when we pulled up on the driveway of Heritage Hotel. Gee, doesn’t it look beautiful by night!? Surprised

 

 

It was all lit up and driving into the private, open carpark made it feel really surreal.

Pictures do it no justice I swear. Undecided

 

 

Cosy little lounge of the hotel – with a fireplace!

 

 

Made myself feel right at home.

 

We were also amused with the school of the huge Japanese koi fishes in the pond. Feeling Good

There were so many of them! Not sure why they all decided to dart away to the other side of the pond when I took pictures. Bleh. Maybe they’re camera-shy HAHA

 

 

Seeing that they had a snooker table, a foosball aka table football table in their games room, we were really up for a challenge!

 We’ve been talking about challenging each other in this for quite a while now – I guess here’s our chance!

 

 

 

Unfortunately, they didn’t allow us to… as guests were only allowed to play during the day.

 

 

Heritage Hotel also had a mini indoor playground for children and a convenience store/mini mart but what really intrigued me was their library.

 

 

Oh my goodness.

There were so many books, novels & magazines to read! Oh Really?

 

 

So much so that I felt like Belle from Beauty and the Beast

 

 

If that didn’t impress me enough, all the trees in the hotel were draped beautifully with Christmas fairy lights and oh my, did it really set the mood for evening. Wink

 

 

Back at the hotel, we got the hot tub ready for a nice warm bath but ended up falling asleep while watching ‘The Secret Life of Walter Mitty’ on FOX movies.

Personally, I think the Cable TV channels that Heritage Hotel has in line for us was just about right! News channels, movie channels, info-tainment channels and more. Laughing Perfect for a lazy night in.

 

 

***

 

The very next morning, we arose at about 9am and were all ready to see what Cameron Highlands had to offer.

 

 First up: the view outside our balcony!

So breathtaking. I spent about half an hour just admiring it while he was fast asleep.

 

 

We roughly planned our itinerary for the day the night before – lots of strawberries, bees, tea plantations, cactus, scone-hunting and more!

 

But first… BREAKFAST! Big Smile

The breakfast buffet was a fulfilling one, with local and Western delights to appease our morning appetite.

 

This chef makes superb eggs!

 

We excitedly chose the balcony seats as we were both very fond of the breezy, cool weather and the stupendous view of nature. Laughing

 

 

Good morning!

 

 And good morning to you too, morning glory.

 

 

 

 

After breakfast, we bid goodbye to Heritage Hotel.

But not before we took lotsa selfies and goofed around the hotel vicinity! Laughing

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Thank you, Heritage Hotel, for the memorable stay and the wonderful service! Big Smile

 

 

Adjourning uphill to Brinchang was such a fun ride. It was not only extremely breezy, but the strong winds had a chill to it too.

 

 

We first made a pit-stop at Lord’s Cafe (finally, yay!) but IT WAS CLOSED ON SUNDAY.

ROAAAARRR!!! Ahh!Doubt it!What?! And I never got to go there in the end… that’s why I was so disgruntled about the entire issue. LOL.

 

 

Arriving Brinchang felt very familiar. It gave me a vibe I could remember on my first trip here as a teenager. It was a small, quaint yet extremely busy township.

Personally, the hustle & bustle of the tiny town felt a little too congested for its own good.

 

 Our first stop was the Central Market!

 

I fell in love with the strawberry plushies and the strawberry ear muffs there.

They were oh-so-adorable and cuddly! Adore

 

 

There was a huge array of cactus, vegetables, fruits and colourful roses too. I was so fascinated by all these pretty and happy sights!

 

 

They were really a fresh look away from the computer and gadget screens I stare at working all day. I’d love have a beautiful mini-garden on my terrace when I move into my new home! Laughing

 

 

 

I bought a lil cactus to place onto my desk at work too.

Hey it was only RM2 so why not? 😀

 

 You can tell that I was intrigued by the cotton candy too.

Didn’t have any for obvious reasons LOL.

 

 

En route to the next stop! Big Boss

 

 

We continued with our journey up the hill and stopped at Raaju’s Strawberry Farm.

Apparently, they serve the “best strawberry milkshakes” according to some reviews but unfortunately, moo and I beg to differ. Frown

 

 It does look pretty gorgeous though!

 

We make our own strawberry milkshakes at home all the time so you could possibly imagine how much we were anticipating our first sip! 🙁

Don’t get us wrong, their strawberries were delicious as it is on its own (especially with whipped cream!) but I guess the way they made the strawberry milkshakes wasn’t exactly our cup of tea.

It felt very… rough, tasteless and chunky instead of the creamy, milky thick shakes that we’re all used to making from scratch and drinking from restaurants. Cry

 

Their homemade scones were delicious and it was served with freshly made strawberry jam! It was warm, fluffy and had just the right texture. 

 

 

Cakes on display.

 

And now comes the best part – picking our own strawberries for ourselves! 😀 😀

 

Couldn’t help sneaking in a bite!

 

 

The farm gates open at about 2pm so it’s best if you arrive on time.

The farm worker guided us around the strawberry plantations and we were given a basket and a pair of scissors each.

 

 Snip snip!

There were plenty of huge, red and ripe strawberries!

Pro-tip: Walk further into the farm to get the bigger ones.

 

 

It costs RM30 for 1KG and the farm worker (a very pleasant and helpful Bangladeshi worker!) showed us approximately how many strawberries would amount up to 1KG as we didn’t exactly have any indication on the number of strawberries to pick. Thank you!

 

 

The creative farm worker also snapped this picture for us!

Loved how he played with perspective.

 

Moving on, we stopped at at the Bee Farm.

We only got to witness the bees from afar lest they might sting us! Ahh!

 

 

Along the way, I had my eye on a strawberry plushie at almost all the markets and stalls we zoomed past. A girl can never get her eyes off cute or adorable things – at least I can’t!

 

But moo said I had way too many soft toys at home and the idea of getting a strawberry pillow was frowned upon. CryShops after shops later, I was still being an incredible sulk LOL.

In the end, he relented since I “liked it so much”. YAY! Ha Ha

 

 

Whilst on our way up to the tea plantation, we drove past the lavender farm.

It was a beautiful sight of purple, red and yellow blossoms all in a row. The entrance fee was only RM5 but we had other plans ahead of us – no time to waste!

 

 

We were extremely excited upon arriving Bharat Tea Plantation in Kuala Terla.

My parents were being very paranoid and kept warning us against driving up to the BOH Tea Plantation near Gunung Brinchang as it was apparently very steep, slippery and winding – let alone with the rain! Oops

 

So we settled for the former and we were happy regardless.

 

 

We took in the magnificent sight of lush tea leaves and bright green hills of our surroundings.

 

 

Its neatly terraced rows fascinated us too!

 

 

The hills are alive! With the sound of music….

Indeed, I felt like Fraulein Maria sans Captain Von Trapp’s 7 children LOL.

 

 

Living in the big city surrounded by concrete jungle does that to you, really. Canny

 

 

So after frolicking in the meadows like the silly peeps we are, we took our much deserved rest in the cafe overlooking the same enchanting view that we’ll never get tired of.

It’s definitely a sight to behold! Yes, we’re nature-loving people like that.

 

 

 

Had we paid BOH Tea Plantation a visit instead, we would have been spoiled for choice with the lavender puffs, strawberry tarts, scones and other freshly baked pastries. Oh well. Maybe next time! Wink

Anyway, our orders were placed and within minutes, a pot of rose tea, milk tea and a chicken & mushroom pie was served. Laughing

 

 

 

We adjourned back to KL soon after. On our way down, we spotted a brand spanking new mall! 

Didn’t even get to pay a visit. Crying

 

We also spotted lotsa natives selling raw honey, fruits & vegetables in dilapidated wooden sheds under the rain. That kinda broke my heart. Sitting there for an entire day just hoping someone would stop and buy their harvest.

How much money are they even able to make from doing that? Frown

Do they really think people would stop on a dangerous slope in the middle of the road whilst driving down (or up) and obstruct traffic? Cry

 

Sorry for digressing.

Anyway, that concluded our weekend getaway up on the highlands!

 

 

Should’ve stayed for another day – making it a 3Day 2Night stay instead. Angry

I was given the impression that Cameron Highlands was a really boring sleepy town with nothing to do, but it guess what? It turns out that 2Days 1Night wasn’t enough for us at all; especially if we were to explore everything we had initially planned but didn’t get the chance to.

‘Till next time, Cameron! Experiencing a splendid and enjoyable weekend up there is enough an incentive to return!

 

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All the mystery & heading up north to Carlsberg ‘s ‘Where’s The Party?’

November 16, 2012 by thejessicat

 

 

 

Despite rocking up at countless parties, attending events after events in the city, there's always a part of me that's gleefully hoping one of them would be an epic, massive beach party.

 

Previously, as it has always been, I've been making my way down south to our neighbour across the causeway for their annual beach party at the end of every year.

Yes, that's the one – ZoukOut at Siloso Beach in Sentosa Island, Singapore.

 

But last Saturday night proved that we Malaysians won't need to leave

the country anymore to partyrock on a beach 

 

When I received the really creative event invitation by Carlsberg to party with them at their annual 'Where's The Party?' event, I knew for a fact that it was going to be held by the sea – on the beachside!

The invitation was in the form of a 'message in a bottle'. So creative!

 

Leading up to the party, I received a guide on what to bring.

Yup! That confirmed my speculations of a beach party! 

 

I woke up as early as 6 o' clock to pack for the weekend trip as we had to gather at the Carlsberg Brewery in Shah Alam at 8.30am, where several designated coaches would be chartering us to the mystery partyzone.

 

Breakfast was served at the brewery – Nasi Lemak & Teh Tarik!

Yum. Your typical Malaysian breakfast, I know :)

 

We adjourned a little after 9 o' clock!

 

The bus ride was a lengthy one but we guests were well entertained by our bus emcee, Carl.

He made us laugh with his humour, snide jokes and sarcasm! :D

 

I was in my own world curled up with a good novel & my favorite playlist

while theboyf played Angry Birds throughout the ride

 

The secret destination felt like a faraway distance and the journey, a never-ending one.

We were on the road for 5 hours now. The surroundings were beginning to be a wee bit familiar to me. 

 

We were given a bento box for lunch on the go!

A delicious hotdog, sausages, fruits, smoked salmon, veggies, potatoes and… CHOCOLATE 

 

At one point, I could see the Penang Bridge in the distance. That's it! 

This year's Carlsberg 'Where's The Party' is going to be held in Penang Island… but the question is, where exactly?

 

We alighted at Queensbay seaside to sign our names on the guestlist

 

Initially, I thought we were going to be partying at this beach but there was no stage set-up in sight.

"Scratch that, it can't be here then!", I said to myself with much perplexity.

 

Before I knew it, we were on the move again.

 

Being a Penangite, I thought I knew where we were going and smugly told theboyf that the party would most probably be held in Batu Fehringgi's long stretch of beaches.

But as soon as the coach took a different route, my totally lost my bearings. We were taken on a long, winding ride on a new highway on a hilly area I've never driven on before.

 

Escorted by the police force and road marshalls en route to the secret partyzone. Coolbeans! 

 

Looking out the window, all I could see was cliffs, narrow bridges, the Indian Ocean, plunging ravines, the sun setting in the horizon, lush greenery, mountainous terrains, jungles, waterfalls, rural villages… you get the picture.

This puzzled me even further.

 

Dear Carlsberg, Where's the Party?

No, really… WHERE'S THE PARTY???? 

 

I soon realized that it was all part of the plan. Their plot to confuse us, get us racking our brains thinking, giving us so much suspense and anticipation living up to its theme – 'Where's The Party?'. 

 

Good job! That calls for a Carlsberg *clink*

 

In the end, I was right. We were going to Batu Fehringgi after all but via a road not taken by many LOL. 

 

We *finally* arrived Bayview Beach Resort Penang

This was taken in the transparent, bubble elevator going up to my room :)

 

As soon as I stepped in, I felt right at home.

My Deluxe Side Seaview room was spacious, comfy, had an enormous King-sized bed, a balcony, a giant bathroom (with a bath!), comfy couches, a flat-screen television, high-speed internet and so much more!

 

To sum it all up, it was beautiful had everything I needed. Thanks, Carlsberg! 

Here are some photos of my room before I made a mess of it LOL

 

#1

 

#2

 

#3

 

#4

 

I soon noticed a little something lying in my room. 

It bore the words – 

 

"Dear Bold One,

You've made it to Carlsberg Where's The Party. 

 

Gear yourself up with the items in this party pack

and rock on to Asia's most epic party!"

 

I opened it with much enthusiasm (Come on, who doesn't like surprise presents?) and I found many party essentials which could come in handy during the beachparty! 

If my memory hasn't failed me, it had a map/layout sheet of the partyzone, a Pestle and Mortar 'Where's the Party?' t-shirt, funky hipster glasses and a pair of flip-flops.

 

Yay! This made me a very happy girl 

I've always wanted a pair of Fipper flip-flops but never got round to buying one

 

Time to get ready and hit the beach for Carlsberg's 'Where's the Party?'

 

Whoops. I think I over-packed. Heh.

 

We put our beachparty gear on and left the hotel with the Carlsberg shuttle-van

 

The party was held at Hard Rock Hotel's beachside.

Finally, after an entire day's worth of travelling (almost!) it was now time to muster what's left of our energy and turn up our party dial for Malaysia's most epic tri-nation beachparty by Carlsberg!

 

Watch this space for Part 2 *wink*

Stay tuned! 

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Hello from The Kingdom of Cambodia! My insights & impressions of Siem Reap so far

November 4, 2012 by thejessicat

 

 

 

Hellllooooooooo from Cambodia! 

And Chum Reap Suor to you too, my new Cambodian friends!

 

Donning a traditional dress with cultural Cambodian designs & elephant motifs!

 

 

Sorry I haven’t been updating for the past 5 days.

I’ve been out of the country – as most of you know,  if you’re on Twitter & Facebook with me :)

 

Touched down at Siem Reap International Airport!

 

I’ve had the honour of being flown up to Siem Reap with other fellow bloggers around the world to attend BlogFest Asia 2012 : the third cross-border conference & meeting of Asian bloggers & technologists, held in Cambodia this year.

 

 

Watch this sneak preview video I’ve just made!

 

httpv://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DK8kWdcAaOw&feature=youtu.be

So much more to come, I can't wait to share! 😉

 

 

Can't believe that today is already my fifth day in Siem Reap.

Never thought I’d say this – I am absolutely in love with Cambodia already! 

 

The picturesque village area where I took the boat along Ton Le Sap river to the Floating Villages

 

Cruising towards Ton Le Sap lake brought me a sense of liberation.

Sat at the edge of the boat with the breeze in my face & arms wide open under the sun

 

All the houses were built on stilts in the Floating Village

 

Chillin'

 

I steered/drove a motorboat all by myself!

Being the speed demon I am, I overtook all the other boats (yes, having my boatmen yelling at me at the top of his voice! :P) and manoeuvering a canoe around the creek and the narrow, flooded mangrove jungle.

 

How often do you get to paddle a canoe in a mangrove?

 

Here's something you don't get to do very often either…

 

It's not just ANY tuk-tuk…

 

It's the BATMOBILE :P

 

 

Far from the rural countrysides of Ton Le Sap Floating Village, lies Siem Reap town.

Five days here and I already have my favorite food outlets!

 

The Blue Pumpkin @ Hospital Street, Siem Reap Town

 

Rich pastries and a spread of decadent desserts served on luxurious sofa-bed-lounges.

I could stay here forever! 

 

Here are the rest of the food I've indulged in throughout these five days :

 

They range from traditional Cambodian amok, lok lak, Mexican, Western, other Asian fusions and the exotic!

 

Every 5 meters or so, you will hear friendly Khmer people beckoning you to try the Dr. Fish Foot Spa Massage

 

I've also had my first HAPPY PIZZA experience in Siem Reap in Happy Special Pizza!

 

Full foot massage/reflexology for only USD$3

 

Little children cooked and served us delicious spinach dumplings 

 

Shopping of all sorts of odds and ends in Old Market, Original Market & Night Market

 

 

As dusk began to settle in, there was only one place in mind – Pub Street

 

Angkor What? Bar 

Loved the play of words!

 

Partying with my crazy bunch of  fellow BlogFest Asia 2012 peeps! 

 

I know that my Siem Reap province trip will not be a complete one without paying a visit to the iconic Angkor Wat of Cambodia. 

So one fine (actually, VERY HOT!) afternoon, I joined the rest for BlogFest Asia's Heritage Trail.

 

The Angkor Wat I used to know from the pages of my History textbooks is only THIS SMALL

 

And now, I see it, life-sized right before my very eyes 

I stood there with full admiration for as long as I could, despite the sweltering weather.

 

It had an ethereal wonder to this classical Khmer architecture. 

 

It ain't everyday you get to lie on the grass with the Angkor Wat right behind you, hey? :D

 

Built by the late King Suryavarman II in the 12th century, the Prasat Angkor Wat stands as the largest Hindu temple complex in the world.

As I walked through the redented towers, ancient galleries, pillars, stone statues, passageways and cruciform terraces, I was in awe  

 

Apsaras. History, culture and religion resonated within its intricately carved stone-walls.

 

I continued exploring the temple grounds! Great adventures with my Pinoy friends, Paula & Ethel 

 

Moving on… we headed to Ta Prohm soon after.

This majestic complex was once a Buddhist monastery & university and was inscribed in the World Heritage List in 1992.

 

Those glorious, glorious tree roots sprouting out of the ruins looked mysterious but not threatening.

 

Familiar? :D

 

Standing where Angelina Jolie had her Tomb Raider set filmed! :D

 

Sovichea Sou, a local Cambodian friend

showed us around and guided us around the temples. Thank you! 

 

Not far from the hustle and bustle of Siem Reap town stood FCC Angkor.

It is a very prestigious hotel which housed a luxurious and elegant fine dining restaurant too.

 

The glamorous and posh FCC Angkor Hotel

 

 

BlogFest Asia 2012's dinner reception was held here last night :)

I had an amazing time at dinner & drinks with new friends from across the globe 

 

I found Siem Reap to be a busy yet very laidback town with a buzzing nightlife, cheap massages, delicious food (LEMME HEAR A YEAAAHHH!!) and a plethora of night market shopping hotspots.

With such a well preserved exotic culture, ancient ruins & breathtaking temples, it is no wonder people keep coming back for more.

 

Siem Reap gave me an impression of a town with a marvellous amalgamation of nature,

historical wonders and lifestyle – just the way I like it 

 

5.30PM sunset from my window

 

All the fun, sights, food and pleasant Khmer people have imprinted remarkable impressions of Siem Reap in my mind.

I have been enlightened by so many new insights, had the pleasure of meeting wonderful people, had so much laughter and adventure, which can only spell beautiful memories of Siem Reap, Cambodia 

 

Not a single day has let me down.

 

Thank you BlogFest Asia 2012 for a delightful Siem Reap experience!

 

Cheers! 

P/S : With 50 cent beers, who would say no to a good toast? *hic*

 

Aw khun ch’ran, dear Siem Reap, for a lasting impression & a wonderful stay thus far! :)

Here’s to hoping my next few days will be even more exciting than it already is. 

 

Chum reap leah!  From Malaysia with love,

Jessicat

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My Hennessy Artistry Penang Experience + Press Conference with the artistes of the night

June 21, 2012 by thejessicat

 

 

My weekend went swell… it was a blast in every sense of the word!

Thanks to Hennessy Malaysia, I flew down to Penang on Saturday to attend Hennessy Artistry Penang.

 

At one of the many Hennessy bars during the press conference in the afternoon

 

As I've announced before in this blogpost, Hennessy Artistry is back with a bang this 2012!

The aforementioned party which I had the pleasure of attending, marks the very first of its trilogy of parties this year! 

 

We arrived the airport as early as 9 o' clock in the morning, boarded the plane by Malaysia Airlines and had a pleasant flight towards Penang. Touched down safely just before noon.

 

Lunchtime at Blue Reef Fish & Chips @ Straits Quay

The grilled Chilean Sea Bass aka Cod with Prawns was delicious! 

 

We were then ushered to Straits Quay Convention Centre for the Press Conference session along with a Meet & Greet with the artistes of the event. 

They were Taiwan Mandopop boyband Lollipop F, UK Grammy-Award Trance DJ Andy Moor and our very talented local acts DJ Ramsey Westwood, DJ Ernest C and singer/vocalist Suki Low.

 

This way to the venue

 

At the Hennessy Artistry photowall!

TheJessicat wears:

Blazer by Cotton On

Black Studded shoulderbag by Guess

Heart Sunnies sponsored by Online Store : Friendly Fashion

Leopard Tank sponsored by Online Store : Friendly Fashion

Dark Grey jeggings by Forever 21

Neon Pink-Rainbow kicks by Nike

 

Had a sneak peak into the venue before anyone else.

The moment I stepped in, I was in awe! 

 

Loved how they transformed the convention hall into such a posh bar-lounge to mingle about 

 

Heaps of tables, chairs & lounge sofas for guests to chill with their fave Hennessy drinks

 

Guests will have their photo taken at the Hennessy 360 Camera platform!

Love it! So much fun 😀

 

That, my dears, is only the beginning!

For behind the curtains is the stage, many bars, lounge sofas, podiums and more located within the enormous party zone capable of hosting more than 2000 party-goers.

 

Patience, pet! :D Patience! 

 

The bar boasting Hennessy's signature long drinks : 

Hennessy Apple, Hennessy Berry, Hennessy Ginger & Hennessy Soda! 

 

I had my fave Hennessy Apple made by the Hennessy girls manning the bar

 

Dear Hennessy, congrats on your lovely new bottle again! 

 

Before we knew it, the MC of the event, MTV VJ Rich, ushered us to gather around before he welcomed the artistes of Hennessy Artistry Penang 2012 to the venue! 

 

Richard Herrera aka MTV VJ Rich. He's a bit of a looker, is he not? 😉  😉

 

We had the opportunity to speak to them and find out what they think about this party.

Questions were posed and from there we got to know the stars a tad better 🙂

 

Owodog from Lollipop F answering a question from the floor

 

Did you know that the 'F' in 'Lollipop F' represents their FOUR members? 😀

Now we do.

 

Local DJs Ernest C and Ramsey Westwood sharing their sentiments

 

Suki Low and Andy Moor listening attentively

 

Candid shot! Suki Low in smiles

 

After the press conference, I told her how I watched her grow since her victory as a 16 year old girl in 8TV's One in a Million reality TV show. She seemed rather surprised and bashful about my knowing of her since way back then! :)

I was excited to watch her perform ever since her debut in 2006.

 

DJ Ramsey smile for the camera!

 

Rams and I :)

 

Ramsey, a fellow Penangite, is a friend of mine since teenagehood

Looking forward to watch him play tonight as (let's be honest) I've never watched him play LIVE before! 😛

 

Andy Moor. My eyecandy of the night!

 

I couldn't believe I was sitting about 2 feet directly in front of Andy Moor.

I've been listening to his works and remixes for a couple of years now and this British trance & progressive music DJ/Producer is nothing short of talented!  Take a listen to his tracks, it's really good 😀

 

I asked Andy a question : What will we partygoers be expecting from you and your set tonight?

To which he answered : I'm very excited about tonight. Expect a whole lot of groove.. and energy!

 

Andy Moor and I  My day (life) is complete 😛

 

Here's a group photo of all the artistes of Hennessy Artistry Penang 2012!

 

Cheers! Tonight's gonna be a good night 😀

 

 

Managed to steal a photo with MTV VJ Rich before everything was over 😛

 

When the Press Conference was over, we were left all pumped up and excited to partyrock on tonight with free-flow of superb drinks by Hennessy, a stellar line up, good music and many familiar faces! 

 

You know there's always a good party with the world's leading cognac, Hennessy VSOP, around!

 

We were then chauffeured back to our crib for the night, G-Hotel along Gurney Drive! 

I took a short rest, had a piping hot shower and began dolling up for tonight's event.

 

My room

 

Dubbed Penang's Most Stylish Address, it was a pleasure to have stayed in this seafront hotel that comes with a breathtaking coastal view. Except though, rather unfortunately, it wasn't the most breathtaking view as I had imagined due to the low tide of the sea.

Bummer! 🙁

 

My workspace for the weekend. 

 

Had only very little time to bask in the comfort and spaciousness of my room during the day, a little bit during the night and the morning after, but I made sure I did! :D

 

But my love for my King Sized bed knows no boundaries! 

 

Giant mirrors too. I approve! 😀

Now excuse me, while I put my best foot forward for tonight

 

Just before the event began, we had dinner at Hisago Modern Japanese Restaurant @ Straits Quay

I had cod again, but with Soft Shell Crab Maki and Sashimi this time!

 

 

After a satisfiying meal at Hisago, it was time to turn up the party dial!

Hennessy Artistry Penang 2012 was just about to begin…

 

Stay tuned! 

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Something sleek & sexy has landed at the Hennessy V.S.O.P New Bottle Launch! @ Doubletree by Hilton Hotel, KL

June 7, 2012 by thejessicat

 

 

 

When I was extended an invitation to celebrate the official launch of the all-new shiny and curvaceous bottle of Hennessy VSOP, I could hardly contain my excitement! 

Witnessing something of such grandeur – especially the evolution of the World's #1 cognac, a new Hennessy bottle – meant a lot to me as my family (dating from the days of my great grandparents) frequently open bottles of their favorite cognac, Hennessy for all family occasions.

 

My plus-one for the evening & I 

 

Which goes to say that I've seen previous designs on the older bottles belonging to my grandparents, all displayed beautifully in the cabinets of our bottle collection. 

Cannot wait to put this spanking new one beside its predecessors! 

 

Here, I arranged all the 4 different types of drinks I had

We were served Hennessy's signature long drinks upon arrival

 

There were (L-R clockwise) Hennessy Soda, Hennessy Apple, Hennessy Ginger & Hennessy Berry

 

My favorite one of the lot was the Hennessy Apple! 

Loving the distinctive taste of Hennessy VSOP cognac with a hint of sweet, apple flavour 

 

We were ushered to the foyer to mingle about before the event began.

I was told by the awesome team behind this party that the celebration will be divided into two parts :

 

The WHITE Room & The BLACK Room


But before that, some photos of my friends & I at the foyer sipping on delightful Hennessy VSOP cognac!

 

 

There was so much merriment in the house!

Catching up with my friends & having a drink of Hennessy VSOP cognac with more lovely people totally set the mood for the evening

 

We were served an array of finger-food to complement our drinks too!

Good god, those miniature pies were delicious!

 

But not as delicious as my favourite Hennessy Apple, of course! ;)

 

The beautiful Hennessy girls then ushered us into The White Room to witness the launch of the new, elegant Hennessy VSOP Cognac bottle and new packaging design! :D

 

More food & drinks were in store for us too!

 

The peeps behind this event sure know how to keep our tummies happy & satiated huh 😛

Drinks were served in abundance and I must say, how could I resist? They were simply divine

 

The bartenders were friendly and entertained me with their bartending stunts before making my drink!

 

Theboyf and I in the White Room

 

Outfit of the Day! TheJessicat wears :

Dress by Dorothy Perkins

Belt from Bangkok

Netted long cardigan by Jaspal

Bag from an online boutique

Peep-toe glass wedges by Aldo

 

Upon settling down at the table, I caught sight of 2 very familiar bottles on stage.

How time has passed! Hennessy's unchanged personality has been enjoyed for almost 2 centuries now

 

Hennessy's old bottle designs!

 

If you didn't know, the legend of Hennessy VSOP began on 7th October 1817 when the future King George IV of England requested the great French cognac house to supply him with a very special cognac described in the record with the words "Very Superior Old Pale".

Legends are shaped over time. And for a premium cognac that has been celebrated worldwide for 7 generations, their secrets of selection, aging and blending has been passed down over the years till today!

 

With an old buddy, this charismatic lad, Will Quah :)

 

He's the emcee of tonight's event as well!

 

Will welcomed us all and made a celebratory toast to Hennessy VSOP's newly launched designs.

He then announced that we were going to have a very special guest appearance……

 

?

ANY GUESSES ON WHO IT IS?

 

None other than the MAN behind these gorgeous new Hennessy bottle designs!

 

If you're into cars (especially BMWs) you would recognize him with just one glance. The Hennessy V.S.O.P new carafe is his first masterpiece outside the automobile industry. 

Chris Bangle, from the United States of America, was flown in specially for a guest appearance & to give a (simplified) LIVE demonstration of his work.


Chris Bangle and I

 

We were pleased to have designer Christopher Edward "Chris" Bangle, the legendary figure in the automobile world, of BMW and Rolls Royce fame, to commemorate the evening with us :D

 

He is best known for his daring design and far-reaching influence in his works as Chief of Design for BMW Group, where he was responsible for the BMW, MINI and Rolls-Royce motor cars from 1992 to 2006

 

The mastermind stood beside his brainchild and spoke about his experience behind this bottle design.

 

 

"Designing for Hennessy gave me the same sensations as working on

designs for fast BMWs or a great Rolls Royce.

It is that experience of a unique emotion,"

– Chris Bangle

 

 

He demonstrated LIVE on big screen before our very eyes,

how he redesigned the contours to emphasize its sleek silhouette

 

 

A presentation was held to showcase Hennessy VSOP's new bottle design & packaging.

Guests witnessed its appearance in awe 🙂 It was simply exquisite. Here they are!

 

Introducing a more refined & dramatised new look of the Hennessy VSOP Cognac

I will share more secrets & beauty of the bottle in my next blogpost! 😀

 

After the presentation in The White Room was over,

we were ushered by the Hennessy girls to adjourn to The Black Room

 

Wow. 

 

Just.. wow.

 

Here in The Black Room, it was Hennessy's own private party thrown for us in celebration of their new bottle!

The spacious room with amazing surround sound & bass, defined a clubbing experience with Hennessy, complete with comfy lounge sofas, free flow of Hennessy VSOP long drinks, a dance floor, a 360 camera photo-shooting raised platform, 2 DJs dropping electronic dance music for us party people and more!

 

Are we ready?

 

Me at my umpteenth number of Hennessy Apple! 😛 😛

 

Renowned local DJ, Eva T dropped the bass for us with great mash-ups and remixes of epic EDM tracks

 

Chilling by Hennessy's circle wall which proudly displayed all the new bottles & new package designs!

 

So Lionel tried to photobomb me but I caught him in time.

Still, can't help but to publish this photo though. It's kinda funny! 😛

 

We posed and had so much camlovin' at the one-of-a-kind Hennessy 360 camera!

Props were given, theboyf & I chose the electric guitar and as many new Hennessy botles we could grab

 

We saw ourselves at the LCD television display!

 

There were also interactive games for guests to entertain themselves – if they weren't entertained enough

But just my two cents : seriously, how can anyone ever be bored at a party like this? 😛

 

Mad love for fluffy red pillows strewn all over the lounge sofas! 

 

Bring it on! 😀 I had tremendous amount of fun and we were only halfway

More photos of my friends & I having a ball of a time at the Hennessy VSOP new bottle launch party!

 

 

The music of the night was spun by not one… but TWO DJs!

This was the next DJ that brought the house down with lots of electro, house & dubstep for us :D

 

Keep it going down!

 

By the end of the night, I think I was a wee bit out

 

Some instant photos I tweeted whilst at the party

 

I managed to sober up in time before the party ended.

Drink responsibly! 😀 😀 

 

With buddy Ash at the photowall just as the party ended

 

Taking my last shot with an artistic piece of King George IV

It was you, who begun the works of the finest cognac ever! 

 

The evening ended in full swing, just as it did when it begun

 

Warmest words of congratulations again to Hennessy for a successful launch of their more modern & futuristic 21st century new bottle & packaging design!

Check out Hennessy Malaysia's Facebook page here and show 'em some love! 

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Oh, hello there!

Hi! Welcome to TheJessicat.com - an urban lifestyle blog established since 2005, written from the perspective of a Malaysian blogger. Discover the latest and all that the city has to offer! Do bear with her occasional rants & musings though. Happy reading! ❤

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