MY SGSHOP MALAYSIA REVIEW (TAOBAO AGENT)

unboxing 10kg worth of haul from SGshop Malaysia

(in video I mention 7kg, no it's actually 10kg)

My last shopping experience with Taobao SEA (South East Asia) ended in a shopper's nightmare. It made me think twice about shopping there again. Useless customer service, bad management, bad system. To summarized, their attempts to make it more attractive to S.E.A customers bananas like me (meaning do not read or write Chinese) failed. Till to-date I am still heartbroken, stressed and disappointed over my orders which in total amounted to RM1.5k. I had more than 10 orders made, and after months of fighting with the agency who engaged me to review Taobao SEA, then only one order made it through.

Diabetes Type II : Start with the Right Duo

Let's Talk About Diabetes

(source: hwww.thewalkingencyclopedia.com/diabetes-mellitus)

Today I have decided to again go cold turkey on Coca-Cola. I can't keep track of how many times I have tried to quit. The longest was one year (2014-2015) where I changed my eating habits, got on a weight loss program and lost 20kg. Then I fell in love, worked for a start-up company, juggle between a community I started and dabble in party planning. That's when the tiny voice, started calling me back. From there I lost control and was again back to square one.

The Killer Ayam Goreng Kunyit Bangsar UOA

 if your favourite food might cause you cancer

Just wanted to share something horribly wrong with something deliciously tempting that happened to me a few days ago. You see lunch time around Menara UOA is like a battlefield. The good food always gets this long big ass waiting line. That's one sure fire sign that this is good, we must eat it. My favourite lunch time food is Ayam Goreng Kunyit (Tumeric Fried Chicken) which costs as low as RM5 from the roadside hawker stores.

Look Pa! My CONNOR'S Stout Porter Brewery Tour Experience

the story of CONNOR'S Stout Porter

Last week my partner and I had the pleasure of being invited to take part in a guided tour courtesy of CONNOR'S Stout Porter to the Carlsberg Brewery Malaysia Berhad in Shah Alam to discover everything about CONNOR’S Stour Porter. When I say everything, I meant everything! All sight, smell, taste and after taste. From how the ingredients that goes into it, to the process and how it’s brewed. The best part of the tour? We got to pour our very own perfect pint.

PSA: Tinder Couple Safe Sex

have you met Tinderella?

There's this really funny cartoon on youtube called Tinderella. Yeah I know the song does spark the tune Cinderelly Cinderelly from Disney's Cinderella (you know where Gus Gus starts singing). Back in the olden days, fairy tales are... well all that's magical and full of love and nice things ending with happily ever after. Fast forward the modern era, girls are more liberated from the past and has become an equal to the pesky men.

What happens when "ever after" is recreated now and with the introduction of Tinder (as the "matchmaker"). Laugh at this video if you must. The uncanny resemblance is... lol.

YTL: Cameron Highlands Christmas Tree Lighting 2016

CHRISTMAS TREE LIGHTING 2016

Annual Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony

11 to 13 November 2016

I'm a YTL member so I receive updates of latest marketing promotions. This one, in particular, caught my attention as I'm currently in a year-end mood although it's just October (haha). It's been ages since I been to Cameron Highlands. I don't particular like the place because the trip makes me dizzy (long winding road up). I also don't drive so I am not sure how I will go up there, perhaps taking a bus.

But this latest promotion is all too Christmassy to resist. The promotion is as follows:

"The cool highland air marks that time of year where traditions and festive celebrations draw near! Join us for a magical weekend at our annual Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony from 11 to 13 November 2016.

This year, a colourful Christmas Market will be held at our classic hotel where you can soak up the sights and sounds as you wander around; the aroma of fresh pine, warm mulled wine, local delicacies and crafted gifts enjoyed with a chorus of cheery carols will get you into the spirit of the season."

CHRISTMAS TREE LIGHTING 2016

Join us for our annual Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony from 11 to 13 November 2016

• From MYR 772++ per room per night for two adults
• Accommodation in Deluxe Room
• Daily breakfast and lunch
• A delightful hotpot dinner
• An English Afternoon Tea at the Jim Thompson Tea Room
• A Cameron Highlands Resort Christmas Dinner and pre-dinner cocktails (formal dress code required)
• Jim Thompson Mystery Trail with our Resident Naturalist (subject to availability and weather conditions)
• A colourful Christmas Market will be held at our classic hotel where you can soak up the sights and sounds as you wander around; the aroma of fresh pine, warm mulled wine, local delicacies and crafted gifts enjoyed with a chorus of cheery carols will get you into the spirit of the season
• Complimentary wireless internet
• Complimentary parking

Terms & conditions can be read here.  I am pretty interested because Christmas is my favourite festive season in the year and I've not been in a "Christmas" specific ambiance in Malaysia before where you get to smell fresh pine, and enjoy Christmassy stuffs. Also the daily food with a hotpot dinner and English Afternoon Tea at Jim Thompson Tea Room is calling me.

Should I or shouldn't I, argh. 

Planning My Birthday Trip Again

 my 2015/2016 birthday memories in Bali

I know it's way too early to be counting down to my birthday but this is the best part of life isn't it? To celebrate your birthday and what more overseas. I imagine myself in a nice beach area, relaxing and doing nothing - nada - nothing. The year end is always my favourite - Christmas then New Year's Even then my birthday (yes I am a New Year baby! I shall gloat about this because it's the best gift my mum gave to me). 

BEATS WAREHOUSE SALE

the Beats Sale is back!

Hwee Seng Warehouse Sale is happening this weekend 7 - 9 October, 2016 with brands such as Beats, Onkyo, Jamo, Monster and many more. Building Information Centre, Ground Floor Lot 2, Jalan 51A/243, 46100 Petaling Jaya. More information, 03-7875 4810.

Beauty Gene Professional Review

Beauty Gene Professional, Mont Kiara

One of the reasons I started a blog was to share about the beauty services and self-pampering activities that I often indulge in with my own money. Contrary to the belief that I get sponsored all the time, I would like to say I am not easily bought because I am an independent woman, capable of paying for her own experiences. Of course, it's different from when you're a student, in your 20's and in your 30's.

I often try new outlets out if they have a good deal or an introductory package / first-time trial. My recent experience is something on my bucket list. A very nice "atas" looking eyelash extension centre in Mont Kiara called Beauty Gene Professional. They're from Japan and appears very promising to me. I spotted it when I go to 76Style for my monthly hair treatments.  Really, really wanted to try it but it's so bloody expensive. It ranges from RM278 - RM638 for eyelash extensions.

(you know how I have a love affair with eyelash extensions!)

Then one day I found a deal on Groupon for only RM68 instead of RM348 for 80 pieces eyelash extension (40 on each eye). Normally you would require at least 50 for each eye (more or less). The beautician would try to get you to buy more eyelashes but the top ups are still considerably cheaper than paying full price so top up sensibly okay!

(I top up for mine at this place, can't remember how much, wasn't that much)

I made an appointment, the beauticians seem not be fluent in English. Finally arriving, a local beautician attended to me and explained the whole procedure. The type of eyelash extensions they do is individual lashes, and not in clusters. Meaning 1-on-1, resulting in a natural, beautiful looking eyelashes. These are not as troublesome as the clusters eyelash extensions, which is stuck as a "cluster" onto your eyelashes. It's more dramatic, more visible hence should one or more cluster falls, you would look really funny. Also, they're not very good for your eyelashes (damages your natural eyelashes - many reasons, I will not exlain here). Not unless you find a really good centre that has lightweight cluster eyelashes like Pink Passion Signature Salon (my regular one).

the length, curl and style of the eyelash extensions available

I was shown a choice of eyelash extension styles, either Natural, American Dolly, Camel or Narrow Maetal. Which I like very much so I know what I am getting into. She also explains the type of length involved. I always go for short to long for my eyes, it makes my Chinese eyes pretty haha.

The whole procedure normally takes up to an hour but I spent over an hour here because my beautician kept attending to other customer's inquiries (understaff?). I hope they improve on this because no one likes to be made to wait, doing nothing. I must comment that the glue they use - wasn't smelly, or stinging. The lashes were natural, light and workmanship beautiful. It didn't look fake at all.

I choose Camel style 100 lashes (50 on each eye)

Normally eyelash extensions would last up to a month or more if you're not a newbie. I've been doing mine for 3 years now. If you experience lashes falling off within a week, the shop normally corrects it for you free. My lashes fell off within a few hours. After a few days, more than 10 has fallen off. I think the glue wasn't strong enough? but since I was away in Korea, I didn't get to correct them.

My friend Sydney bought the same and went for hers. Experience the same thing (so I am going to blacklist this centre now). I didn't experience this at other centres so they can't tell me that it was my fault. Most shops would blame your lashes being too weak or etc when this happens. Ignore them. They should know better when they examine your lashes prior to taking your money.

The Verdict:
The place is clean, bright, looks like a surgical clinic. The seats are not very comfortable, especially if you're on it for long hours. My lashes look natural, but that's what you get for individual eyelash extensions. Not much drama look difference but I like that the ends are long so I have nice pretty eyes. However, the price for an eyelash extension work here doesn't justify the money I'm paying, especially when they start falling off within a day. I hope they improve. Haru at Publika is much better and cheaper in comparison for individual eyelash extensions.

Price List:

Eyelash Extensions (both eyes)
40 RM278
60 RM318

80 RM348

100 RM408

120 RM458

140 RM518

160 RM638

Repair: RM6
Removal : RM68
Removal of other shop's extension: RM98

Eyebrow Styling
New customer RM198
Repeat customer RM179
Male RM179

Locations:

Empire Shopping Gallery 03-5036-6590

Hours 10AM-10PM ( Open Daily)

Lot No. F-23A, Level 1, 

Empire Shopping Gallery, 

Jalan SS16/1, 47500 Subang Jaya, 

Selangor Darul Ehsan 

Plaza Mont Kiara 03-6412-8290

Hours 9:30AM-7:30PM ( Open Daily)

E-01-15, Courtyard Level,

Block E, Plaza Mont Kiara,

2 Jalan Kiara, Mont Kiara,

50480 Kuala Lumpur

Website: www.beautygene-pro.jp
Facebook: www.fb.com/beautygeneprofessionalmy

The BBP X CONOR'S Stour Porter Experience October

our next CONNOR'S Experience is at BBP!

For all you meat lovers out there, especially pork fans who enjoy their food served in the good old-fashioned down to earth traditional pub grub style, you should definitely come check out #TheBBP The Club, Bukit Utama, PJ. Just grab a ride on your Grab app, set your drop off point and ride either via Budget Taxi / Grabcar.  Don't forget to enter the exclusive promo code "GRABCONNORS" to enjoy RM8 off for 4 rides to participating outlets (open to new and existing customers that pay via credit/debit card only). You'll also get a FREE Half Pint of CONNOR'S Stout Porter when you flash your booking receipt.

(Note: Each booking receipt is entitled to one (1) FREE Half Pint of CONNOR'S Stout Porter)

don't worry, your meat won't be burnt black

If you're a bit concerned and worried that the name might suggest an image of a very incompetent and inexperienced chef overcooking and burning the Babi to a crisp, don't worry it's all superbly cooked Babi goodness in here! :) Google and you'll know I'm not lying! Even their Facebook Fan Page shows an average of nearly 5-star ratings, a total of 477 reviews and counting, of which over 460 were rated good or really good. Here's a shocker, they just turn 1 year old! (Launched in Sept 2015).

The official mascot is seen plastered all over the restaurant's windows.  Look up and you'll be able to also read some naughty / cheeky quotes as well. Some so outrageous, I almost choked on my meat. e.g "Real Men Rub Their Meats". 

say hello to theBBP

It's essentially a gastropub style restaurant catering for all the family and serving a varied range of juicy mouth-watering BBQ meats, their all famous succulent and tender pork ribs accompanied by delicious sides and finger licking snacks. All washed down with the perfect accompaniment of a cold creamy pint of CONNOR'S Stout Porter to provide an ideal lunch or after work dinner, culminating in an entertaining night out.

it is a popular hangout for many here!

First impressions indicated a lively & friendly ambience combined with a relaxing chilled vibe emanating from the stylish & cozy interior dining area through to the outside 360º bar, beer garden, and the sprawling balcony. Last Friday night when my partner and I dined there with our friends, I noticed a diverse range of customers from families and groups of friends celebrating special occasions; to colleagues socializing with after work drinks, to couples enjoying an evening meal.

the night is young my friends! eat and drink!

At the Meat Station section, you are able to personally handpick your preferred choice and cut of meat, which is then cooked on the BBQ right in front of you! I think this is a great concept, which creates a more hands-on approach to dining for the customer, giving him/her a greater freedom of choice which is usually only available at buffets, as well as a fun way to interact with the chef. At the Salad Station, you can pick and choose all your favourite leafy greens and healthy accompaniments to your meat dish.

But for the month of October, you must try the CONNOR'S STOUT PORTER INFUSED FOOD! Which comes with a full pint of CONNOR'S Stout Porter.

 Caramelized CONNOR'S Pork Belly served with Kyuri

and 1 full pint of CONNOR’S Stout Porter RM30++

Our appetizer consisted of small portions of fine pork belly infused with caramelized CONNOR'S sauce and melted cheese on top of individual slices of kyuri (Japanese cucumber) Tasty and full of flavor with the sweet crispy pork belly combining well with the crunchy kyuri to give you a perfect light refreshing snack to start your meal.

Slow Cooked pork belly marinated in CONNOR'S & spices

1 full pint of CONNOR’S Stout Porter RM38++

Marinated with secret spices and CONNOR'S ale for 4 hours then braised for 2 hours or until tender. Served with bacon mash, which is ideal for soaking up the yummy CONNOR'S Stout Porter  and pork crackling which adds crunch and flavour to compliment the dish. Personally, one of my favourite dishes of the night, I thought it was very well cooked succulent and tender pork belly, fluffy creamy mash and also nicely presented by the chef.

CONNOR'S infused sausage platter with

1 full pint of CONNOR’S Stout Porter RM45++

Spicy Hungarian, German Pepper, Bacon Bratwurst, and Chorizo Sausages accompanied with caramelised onions. Thoroughly enjoyed the selection on offer big thumbs up for these popular types of sausages tasted delicious with the added infusion of CONNOR'S Stout Porter combined with the herbs and spices. Traditionally sausages are usually eaten with beer, so I was interested and curious to find out how they would taste being washed down with a cold creamy pint of CONNOR'S Stout Porter instead. I was pleasantly surprised and impressed to discover that 4 different types of Sausages chargrilled over the BBQ and brushed with a sweet honey CONNOR'S sauce tasted just as good if not better with CONNOR'S Stout Porter than with beer.

Braised meatballs with sweet onion CONNOR'S sauce
with 1 full pint of CONNOR’S Stout Porter RM30++

Slow braised beef meatballs cooked in a CONNOR'S sauce with caramelised onion adding to the flavour. Served with sun-dried tomato bread for dipping to soak up all the delicious sauce. Some of the best meatballs I've tasted juicy & tender and packed full of flavour combines perfectly with the sweet onion CONNOR'S sauce to produce a winning combination on my tongue!

Barbeque CONNOR'S honey spare ribs with

1 full pint of CONNOR’S Stout PorterRM90++

800 grams of juicy and tender pork spare ribs, chargrilled over wood fire chips and glazed with sweet honey CONNOR'S sauce accompanied with mixed grill vegetables. Even though I'm a big fan of BBQ spare ribs anyway, this was still my favourite dish of the night. It tasted well prepared and cooked as the meat just effortlessly fell off the bone. So succulent, juicy and tender fusing perfectly together with the tasty and sweet honey CONNOR'S sauce which complimented each other.

Connor's Experience - a night made right

The inspiration behind these dishes according to the chef, is due to CONNOR'S Stout Porter being a gorgeous and really balanced in taste so it's a perfect compliment. The BBP has become famous for its pork so it's no surprise that you will find that many of its most popular, as well as, newly created dishes were chosen to include all that Babi yumminess, enhancing its flavor with a CONNOR'S infused angle. CONNOR'S Stout Porter has been fused in all of these specially selected dishes through glazing, marinating, sautéing and BBQ. The sides have been selected to enhance the quality of the meal. Whether it be to soak up the delicious CONNOR'S sauces with sundried bread or bacon mash, or complement sausages with simple caramelized onions, there's a distinct method for choosing each side dish for each main. The result is a real ploughman's meal strong and hearty to fill your stomach!

I have no hesitation in recommending The BPP to anyone that is looking for good honest traditional wholesome reasonably priced pub style food with the standard of a decent middle of the range restaurant. Ideal for couples, families & large groups of friends who are interested in holding a party or celebration of special occasions with 10-150 guests.

Address:
#theBBP @ The Club, Bukit Utama
Persiaran Surian, Bandar Utama
47800 Petaling Jaya, Selangor.

Tel.: 03-7724 1628
Opening hours: 5pm – 1am (Tuesday – Sunday)
Capacity: 150pax

https://www.facebook.com/BBPmalaysia

Remember to not drink and drive. It's always safer to drink and ride back with Grab in conjunction with the CONNOR'S Experience. For more info, visit http://www.facebook.com/ConnorsMY