1 Out of 7 Billion
The world is getting smaller everyday but a lifetime is not enough to explore it. My adventure starts in Singapore.
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F1 Rocks (Singapore)
September 27, 2009
“F1 Rocks” rocks. At least, that’s what I can say for Day 3 which I bought tickets for shortly after I learned Beyonce and Black Eyed Peas were coming to town.
Arrived at Fort Canning at around 630pm. Hassle free entry. We bought food good enough to last til midnight when Beyonce was expected to appear onstage. We were also prepared – with small plastic chairs and picnic cloth in tow.
After not going out for one-too-many Friday and Saturday nights, such weekend was truly an awesome way to get back to partying.
Arriving early has its benefits - we sat a few meters from the stage - a distance my digicam's 10x zoom can bear.
BEP at 9pm, Beyonce at 12midnight
Also saw Daryl several meters away. He trooped over to chat and take a photo. (Photo courtesy of Daryl Pan)
Now with my sister who is an expert in pop music, among other things... (Photo courtesy of Daryl Pan)
Now the main event …
Black Eyed Peas
Beyonce
Recommended Team/Staff for Idol Hopefuls
September 21, 2009
After having watched Idol shows of at least 3 countries (US, Australia, and Singapore) over the past several years, I believe each “hopeful” should have people who will assume the roles listed below. Some jobs roles can be combined as appropriate.
It’s tough to be in a competition so always good to seek assistance from the experts who can stay focused in making the individual successful.
Vocal coach – assesses vocal range of the individual, determines potential vocal range, helps individual select the appropriate songs based on weekly theme, works with individual in improving voice quality which includes but is not limited to diction, phrasing, breathing, putting emotion into the performance
Instrumentalist – as necessary; has a high level of competency on guitar, keyboards, and other instruments; rearranges the composition based on individual’s preferred approach (as approved by vocal coach)
Dance instructor – also doubles as fitness and well-being instructor ; works with individual in developing and improving stage presence either through appropriate gestures or dance steps; looks after nutrition and stress management; can be held responsible for security if contestant becomes exceptionally popular during the competition
Stylist – covers hair & makeup, clothes, grooming on and off cam ; provides guidance on how to project on screen and on camera (i.e. photo for publications); if competent enough, job holder can look after finances since majority of the expenses will likely be on clothes
Researcher – liaises with vocal coach on weekly themes and recommends songs that appeal to voting public (including background on the song); also considered an expert in what judges’ preferences are including capturing of feedback during competition itself; reviews performances of other contestants (strengths/weaknesses) and translate these for the benefit of the individual
Media relations – also acts as legal adviser if things get of out of hand; manages generation of good publicity for the individual in the local and overseas press; leads new media to expand voting/fan base (i.e. Facebook, Twitter, websites, forum); works with fan clubs (if any) on materials, participation in events; responsible for creative (yet legal) means of increasing votes
Not sure if the above makes sense but that’s my opinion. :-)
Bangkok Jam
September 21, 2009
After a few years, I finally went to Bangkok. I don’t remember exactly how many times I’ve been to this city but definitely not more than 10.
I wanted to bring the family for shopping as I felt (slightly) guilty I didn’t get to tag them along for my HK adventure in early August. The main goal was for them to shop but in the end I could not help but be tempted as well.
We stayed at Fraser Place along Langsuan. Smart move – thanks to my sister who ask her friend for a recommendation. Not only was it spacious (serviced apartment set up so was not cramped vs staying in a hotel), it was also near the places we wanted to shop at.
1.5 days of walking, dining, and shopping could be exhausting, well, self-inflicted pain. Also managed to catch up with Ken whom I met in Singapore and also happened to be on holiday there.
More photos
Tuk Tuk trendy - Fraser had a complimentary tuk tuk service to the Central Chitlom BTS station
Greyhound Cafe - reminds me of PS Cafe (Singapore). Same same but different.
There was an exhibit at Siam Paragon - this display looks real
There was a teeny bopper dance contest in the Siam area. The performances must have been boring that a judge wanted to entertain himself.
I am reunited with Dunkin Donuts munchkins. Yes, Singapore now has Dunkin Donuts but they don't munchkins... Sad sad
The best tasting orange juice I've ever tasted in my entire life and I found it in Chatuchak! I didn't have stomach problems after so it's safe to drink!
Early drive to the airport to catch the 830 am flight
Til the next shopping adventure!
Ben & Jerry’s Chunkfest 2009 @ Marina Barrage
September 12, 2009
I love ice cream but I’ve never expressed this much love for it until I finished 3 scoops in 30 minutes!
You can’t blame me …
1) It’s my first time at the Marina Barrage
Marina Barrage keeps seawater out and creates Singapore's first reservoir in the city. Also keeps as a tidal barrier to protect low-lying areas in Singapore.
2) It’s my first time to attend the Ben & Jerry’s Chunkfest which is an annual event
3) It was scorching hot at 2pm in sunny Singapore
My ice cream melted in just a few minutes. So hot in this part of Singapore.
4) There were 12 flavors that can only be tried at the Chunkfest
I've never seen this many "scoopers" before!
12 flavors only during the Chunkfest
You can imagine how much I enjoyed drinking a bottle of water after 30 minutes!
It was quite fun as you can see from our happy faces.
South Singapore tour group 
