Chilling at Starbucks while running errands.

Hey there! I thought I’d drop a post here just to say I’m still alive. I have not gone MIA (Missing in Asia).

I had made a short detour to Hong Kong when I reached the south of Taiwan. I have nothing against small spaces, understandably since Hong Kong is packed. However, do watch the ventilation!

I stayed in a place called Maple Leaf Guesthouse while in Hong Kong. This was located in the infamous Chungking Mansions. This place however, was impeccable. Nicely done flooring, clean and very well kept.

I had booked my stay for two nights at a time however and after the second night, I was offered a place, owned by the same owner, at USA Hotels next door in the Mirabel Mansions.

The room was not only tiny, which I don’t mind, but both the air conditioner and window vented into the same 10′ x 10′ shaft which I think never sees the light of day. My health deteriorated in the three nights I was there. I could not sleep at all the third night, due to someone smoking. That person, whose room also vented  into that shaft, flooded my room with second hand smoke and there was no way for me to vent the air out. Furthermore, I assume that the shaft contained mold as would happen if no sunlight ever reached it.

In any case, that led me to be pretty tired through my trip in Hong Kong, Taichung and then back in Taipei as I recuperated.

Tauhu Goreng and bandong. I love Singapore food.

Now back in Singapore, I’m all ready to take on the next phase! Malaysia! I’m ready for the spicy food … I think. My cousin told me to try this “acha” during dinner. He said it would be hot. I barely felt a thing. I think being in Asia has shot my spice tolerance off the roof. I wouldn’t say I can take any level of spice thrown at me, but I think by the time I get back to Canada, my spice tolerance would’ve improved ten-fold from when I left it.

I hopped out of the plane and into the prata house. Almost literally, with a very quick stop at the uncle's to drop off my bags.

Officially only one month left before my return flight to Canada. I am going to miss Asia!