It was a transition that was sudden, even though it was something brought up long before, therefore, it served as a little shocking to me actually.
It was a golden opportunity yet at a very bad timing I would say. Entering into a deparment with no one else left - Disaster. My interview didn't go smoothly, but I guess just as much, being inexperience in that field. However, chance granted, I guess I'll bite on to the rope and hang in there. Afterall, it's definitely a good learning experience for me, especially with such a steep learning curve.
It put in me a position similar to the girl. I imposed on myself what I've been trying to ring in her months back, and thankfully, I'm positive and raring to go. I do feel being shortchanged in remuneration aspects, but I strongly believe experience is money. While I'm still young, it's naturally important to prioritise what's more important and look long term.
I trust what I did will put me in the best light in time to come, though the going will be tough at the start. What drives me is the assurance people gave me, motivating and further assuring me that this is and should be the right choice to make. For that, I'm more and determined to prove myself and those who doubted me wrong.
It's a matter of time and pressure is definitely mounting. It's funny how I'm a near master of what I'm doing yet entering into another field, I'm pure noob. In any case, I am all prepared to face the difficulties and challenges and come what may, I'm positive. Like many said, 船到桥头自然直.
Monday, April 18, 2011
Monday, April 11, 2011
Viva-Sydney
It was a long awaited trip. I had to 'earn' for this so called half leisure/half business trip. I had to get myself recognize as an Aussie Specialist (a learning manual of 19 modules to get myself claimed as Aussie Specialist, including planning an itinerary from scratch). The completion of this entire modules are by means no easy feat, which makes this trip extra satisfying and meaningful.
It's hard to come by such opportunities, therefore, it explains the envy of many. I'm happy and glad to be given this chance, especially when the Familiarization was nearly fully paid for. Three of us, Ray, Gary and me went for this trip, which consist of a pre-tour as well as the actual event trade show where I get to meet tour operators and suppliers from all over Australia.
To kickstart things off, it's my first time taking Qantas and the flight delay definitely did not helped. It delayed our entire self drive itinerary but nevertheless, it did not dampen our mood. Onward we proceed to Sydney centre for a very brief tour about by one of the supplier. Nice lady I would say, who brought us to eat what she presume the best Vietnamese food in Sydney.
It's not long before we embark on a few hours drive to Salamander Bay, Port Stephens. We went to the Australian Reptile Park before that to expose ourselves to the Tasmanian Devils, Wombats, Kangeroos, Koalas, Pythons and so much more reptile. Eye opening indeed especially the Wombats because they all look so cute!
Oaks Pacific Blue resort was cosy and it definitely helped in our much needed sleep. We had a good hold of drinks before we turned in. Chivas was indeed a good sleep inducer.
It was para-sailing the next day, nothing new to me as I've done it before back in Thailand few years back, except for the crystal clear waters, clear blue skies and serene blissful that makes me feel really zen. We are even able to sight dolphins while on the Dolphin watching cruise. My first time 'chasing' dolphins in such a manner but definitely unforgettable. Not forgetting to mention the locals are especially nice, making me feel disgusted with some of the people we had back at home in Singapore. Of course, I'm talking about their comparable Top Notch service in comparison with those I've seen in Japan, what's the next best is of course their abundance of yummy food all around. You name it, Oysters, Prawns, Beer, Seafood, Beef etc...I had a hard time spelling hungry over there. Food aside, I got to bear myself with a bunch of DAMN Chinese while doing my 4WD over at the sand dunes with sand surfing. My virgin try on it and not something very interesting, much thanks to those Chinese. DAMN!
It pretty much concludes the entire Port Stephens that we had before we proceed to the much acclaimed Hunter Valley for nothing but its vineyards and wineries. Indeed, the air is fresher here and it's no wonder why this place is perfect for those yummy grapes. Too bad, harvesting period was over. Nevertheless, we had the luck to be hosted to a wholesome lunch. Fish and Chips in huge portions and ice cream for me to indulge. Please tell me, what else can I ask for more?!?!
It's pretty boring in Hunter Valley if you are not a wine person. But Hunter Valley Gardens is definitely a place for you to kill your time. Beautiful gardens with lots of pretty flowers and plants. A heaven for the girls I would say.
Wine is not the only 'treasure' you'll find in Hunter Valley. The GM from Hunter Valley Resort brought us a whole new experience of beer tasting and it's aspiring to see what his vision is for his resort. It's pretty interesting and definitely a good 'starter' for a well self hosted fine dining by him. Had a great meal feeling 'atas'.
It was a disappointing morning the next day as we sacrifice hours of sleep just to take my first step on a hot air balloon. In the end, it was cancelled due to strong wind, so strong a disappointment that I can still feel it now. =( The next long near 5 hours of drive definitely did not help make my mood better. What's worse it by the time we reach Blue Mountains, it was so foggy that visibility became limited.
The 3 rides we tried to take in Scenic World proved to be a waste of time as we couldn't even see anything at all, not to mention the 'three sisters'. Fairmont, the resort we put up that time though, was an awesome resort to make up for whatever we lose/missed during the day.
Time flies when you are enjoying and it's driving back to the city. But before that, we en-route to Sydney Fish Market for some really fresh seafood. You literally see nothing but really fresh seafood around. We got our hands busy picking on the freshest and set our tummy ready for the feast thereafter. Did bridgeclimb of the Sydney Habour Bridge and the view it has to offered at the summit was definitely something I wouldn't exchange for, even with money.
I had this give special praise to the hotel we put up with, thanks to Tourism Australia. The Observatory Hotel, a 5 star property, literally had anything a guest need, and even a turn down service for all guest. This hotel makes me feel like king and it's the experience that one would definitely pay for.
The event officially started the next day and it was busy whole day from morning till evening, with hosted dinner and events thereafter. I must say it's all so tiring but I had fun, really lots and lots of fun.
This trip earned me an experience I wouldn't forget, meeting wonderful people, learning awesome stuff, seeing breathtaking scenery and tasting marvelous food. I will come to Australia again and this time, I'll hit the romantic Melbourne and fun-filled Gold Coast. Wait for me!!!
It's hard to come by such opportunities, therefore, it explains the envy of many. I'm happy and glad to be given this chance, especially when the Familiarization was nearly fully paid for. Three of us, Ray, Gary and me went for this trip, which consist of a pre-tour as well as the actual event trade show where I get to meet tour operators and suppliers from all over Australia.
To kickstart things off, it's my first time taking Qantas and the flight delay definitely did not helped. It delayed our entire self drive itinerary but nevertheless, it did not dampen our mood. Onward we proceed to Sydney centre for a very brief tour about by one of the supplier. Nice lady I would say, who brought us to eat what she presume the best Vietnamese food in Sydney.
It's not long before we embark on a few hours drive to Salamander Bay, Port Stephens. We went to the Australian Reptile Park before that to expose ourselves to the Tasmanian Devils, Wombats, Kangeroos, Koalas, Pythons and so much more reptile. Eye opening indeed especially the Wombats because they all look so cute!
Oaks Pacific Blue resort was cosy and it definitely helped in our much needed sleep. We had a good hold of drinks before we turned in. Chivas was indeed a good sleep inducer.
It was para-sailing the next day, nothing new to me as I've done it before back in Thailand few years back, except for the crystal clear waters, clear blue skies and serene blissful that makes me feel really zen. We are even able to sight dolphins while on the Dolphin watching cruise. My first time 'chasing' dolphins in such a manner but definitely unforgettable. Not forgetting to mention the locals are especially nice, making me feel disgusted with some of the people we had back at home in Singapore. Of course, I'm talking about their comparable Top Notch service in comparison with those I've seen in Japan, what's the next best is of course their abundance of yummy food all around. You name it, Oysters, Prawns, Beer, Seafood, Beef etc...I had a hard time spelling hungry over there. Food aside, I got to bear myself with a bunch of DAMN Chinese while doing my 4WD over at the sand dunes with sand surfing. My virgin try on it and not something very interesting, much thanks to those Chinese. DAMN!
It pretty much concludes the entire Port Stephens that we had before we proceed to the much acclaimed Hunter Valley for nothing but its vineyards and wineries. Indeed, the air is fresher here and it's no wonder why this place is perfect for those yummy grapes. Too bad, harvesting period was over. Nevertheless, we had the luck to be hosted to a wholesome lunch. Fish and Chips in huge portions and ice cream for me to indulge. Please tell me, what else can I ask for more?!?!
It's pretty boring in Hunter Valley if you are not a wine person. But Hunter Valley Gardens is definitely a place for you to kill your time. Beautiful gardens with lots of pretty flowers and plants. A heaven for the girls I would say.
Wine is not the only 'treasure' you'll find in Hunter Valley. The GM from Hunter Valley Resort brought us a whole new experience of beer tasting and it's aspiring to see what his vision is for his resort. It's pretty interesting and definitely a good 'starter' for a well self hosted fine dining by him. Had a great meal feeling 'atas'.
It was a disappointing morning the next day as we sacrifice hours of sleep just to take my first step on a hot air balloon. In the end, it was cancelled due to strong wind, so strong a disappointment that I can still feel it now. =( The next long near 5 hours of drive definitely did not help make my mood better. What's worse it by the time we reach Blue Mountains, it was so foggy that visibility became limited.The 3 rides we tried to take in Scenic World proved to be a waste of time as we couldn't even see anything at all, not to mention the 'three sisters'. Fairmont, the resort we put up that time though, was an awesome resort to make up for whatever we lose/missed during the day.
Time flies when you are enjoying and it's driving back to the city. But before that, we en-route to Sydney Fish Market for some really fresh seafood. You literally see nothing but really fresh seafood around. We got our hands busy picking on the freshest and set our tummy ready for the feast thereafter. Did bridgeclimb of the Sydney Habour Bridge and the view it has to offered at the summit was definitely something I wouldn't exchange for, even with money.I had this give special praise to the hotel we put up with, thanks to Tourism Australia. The Observatory Hotel, a 5 star property, literally had anything a guest need, and even a turn down service for all guest. This hotel makes me feel like king and it's the experience that one would definitely pay for.
The event officially started the next day and it was busy whole day from morning till evening, with hosted dinner and events thereafter. I must say it's all so tiring but I had fun, really lots and lots of fun.This trip earned me an experience I wouldn't forget, meeting wonderful people, learning awesome stuff, seeing breathtaking scenery and tasting marvelous food. I will come to Australia again and this time, I'll hit the romantic Melbourne and fun-filled Gold Coast. Wait for me!!!
Thursday, April 07, 2011
A Quarter of 2011
Been awhile since I last blogged, with my last post back in Feb. 3 months gone in a jiffy and I was just back from Sydney few days back with a surprisingly loved welcome from the girl. As usual, she was there, tweeting about her welcoming back of me at the airport.
I was greeted by messages by both friends and colleagues the moment I touched down. One of which, was something I've been waiting. I've spoken to a few before. Sometimes in life, god plays prank on you. Sad to say, nothing in life is ever-smooth. As I was saying, it's all about things happening at the right time for the right reasons.
A particularly important year for me as I embarked on a transition with lots of uncertainty. I was often put in a dilemma, which doesn't help at all. I've been waiting for opportunity to come knocking till I realised it wasn't easy. Luck plays a huge part. Now that the chance is here, it's time I grab it and make the fullest of it. I seriously hope I never have to deal with what I dread the most...
Bonus was 'FATTER' this year as compared to the last. Same goes for increment. BUT, as usual, there's always discrepancies in their HR process, which delayed my deserving amount. Which a huge chunk of it, I'm going to dump it into savings. Yes, there seem so much to pay for in future. Frankly speaking, it's scary. 有钱不是万能，但没钱可是万万不能.
But nothing is definitely scarier than someone. This someone has a bad history with me, dated back for at least one year. Those who knew probably know who I'm talking about. Seriously, I can't imagine how dumbass and desperate someone can be. This person definitely looks gay to me yet he reminds me of Michael Jackson. Imagine getting 'touched' by a guy. Even my colleague says he would give him an uppercut if he touches him. NICE! It's not as if I've not been in such situation before but if any persistence further, he will have an additional letter at his mailbox.
Contradictory, the girl said he might have arrange for this Sydney trip with a ulterior motive. Whatever it is, something I seem to gain much from it seemingly. 9 days at Sydney makes me feel spoilt. From hosted lunches and dinners to night time party and walk about, of course, not forgetting the carefree driving around. Definitely, I'll go back there again. Photo post of VivaSydney up next!
I was greeted by messages by both friends and colleagues the moment I touched down. One of which, was something I've been waiting. I've spoken to a few before. Sometimes in life, god plays prank on you. Sad to say, nothing in life is ever-smooth. As I was saying, it's all about things happening at the right time for the right reasons.
A particularly important year for me as I embarked on a transition with lots of uncertainty. I was often put in a dilemma, which doesn't help at all. I've been waiting for opportunity to come knocking till I realised it wasn't easy. Luck plays a huge part. Now that the chance is here, it's time I grab it and make the fullest of it. I seriously hope I never have to deal with what I dread the most...
Bonus was 'FATTER' this year as compared to the last. Same goes for increment. BUT, as usual, there's always discrepancies in their HR process, which delayed my deserving amount. Which a huge chunk of it, I'm going to dump it into savings. Yes, there seem so much to pay for in future. Frankly speaking, it's scary. 有钱不是万能，但没钱可是万万不能.
But nothing is definitely scarier than someone. This someone has a bad history with me, dated back for at least one year. Those who knew probably know who I'm talking about. Seriously, I can't imagine how dumbass and desperate someone can be. This person definitely looks gay to me yet he reminds me of Michael Jackson. Imagine getting 'touched' by a guy. Even my colleague says he would give him an uppercut if he touches him. NICE! It's not as if I've not been in such situation before but if any persistence further, he will have an additional letter at his mailbox.
Contradictory, the girl said he might have arrange for this Sydney trip with a ulterior motive. Whatever it is, something I seem to gain much from it seemingly. 9 days at Sydney makes me feel spoilt. From hosted lunches and dinners to night time party and walk about, of course, not forgetting the carefree driving around. Definitely, I'll go back there again. Photo post of VivaSydney up next!
