Road Warrior : Go early to NAIA today
Philippine Airlines advises passengers with flights today to be at the airport earlier than usual due to expected heavy traffic or issues going to the airport. This is because of a planned mass action by a PAL Union.
I think this should really apply to all flights, always be prepared, you never know if something unexpected happens and it holds you up from getting to the airport, checking-in or boarding.
There was a time when we were stuck in traffic 5 Km from the airport because there was a man on top of the bridge pillars. Things like these come out of the blue without warning so best be safe and go to the airport early.
Update 19-Sept-2011 : Apparently, the action by the Union did not significantly disrupt PAL services, PAL even had a high 85% on-time performance. Although, traffic around the airport was bad according to reports but contingency measures appear to have worked for PAL.
Road Warrior : More flights between PH and VN
Vietnam Airlines is expected to soon fly directly to the Cebu, Clark and other International airports in the Philippines except NAIA with unlimited seats while seats limit between Ho Chi Minh and Manila has been increased to 5000 per week.
The Philippines and Vietnam have signed a memorandum of understanding recently for this.
Travel between both countries are concentrated on the Ho Chi Minh to Manila flight and introduction of direct flights from secondary cities in both countries would certainly be new avenues for increased collaboration and business opportunities.
Vietnam Airlines is a member of Sky Team and have codeshare agreements with some Sky Team members and others outside the group including Philippine Airlines. The airline also appear to have a couple of Dreamliners(Boeng 787) in order which could have deliveries start by 2015 and a handful of A380's which also might come in 2015.
The airline is unique as it does not have a First Class cabin, the highest being Business Class with Delux Economy which can be compared to Premium Economy and Economy to round up the cabin configuration. Delux Economy is only available on Boeing 777 flights.
Looks like this is an airline to watch for in 2015.
Road Warrior : Cebu Pacific gets 4 new planes
In this week is Cebu Pacific Air(5J) expecting to receive 3 A320 between now till the end of the year. They currently have 10 A319, 15 A320 and 8 ATR 72-500 aircraft's. At the start of next year it 5J would have 29 Airbus aircrafts of which 19 will be A320's. This is part of the 18 A320 previously ordered expected between now and 2014.
As it is, 5J already have the newest fleet in the Philipines and in contrast to PAL(PR) is generating income and aggressively expanding domestically and in the region. 5J has previously announced the order of 30 new A321neo and 7 A320 expected to be delivered between 2015 and 2021.
I'm looking forward to them getting the A321neo as I think that will lead to increased flights to regional destinations and introduction of new ones. I'm still let down that 5J only has 1 daily flight between Singapore and Cebu, I hope these new aircrafts with increase the flights.
5J will increase flights from Manila to Boracay, Davao, Cagayan de Oro, Tacloban, Dumaguete and Naga. New routes will also be introduced, such as Zamboanga to Tawi-Tawi flights and Cagayan de Oro to Iloilo.
Movie Review : Man from Snowy River
This 1982 Australian film with superb acting by Kirk Douglas playing dual roles effortlessly and I did not even notice it was him until almost in the middle of the movie. I found this from one of the online list of gread Australian movies and seeing Kirk's name on the bill just added a bit to my curiosity.
This feels a lot more like it was made in 1970 than 1980 but nonetheless, it still is good. The story is based on a poem by Banjo Paterson which also shares the same title.
This is a story of lad growing up and seeking his own place in the world after he is left alone when his father dies. Tom Burlinson as the lead is really good and it really feels like he started out young with a lot of naivete and as the story unfolds he learns the ropes faces his own demons and overcomes them. Tom's acting is as good as Kirk's but I think Kirk's dual role was the highlight and was just exceptional acting with good directing as even when both roles where face to face, without using so much special effects which was a limitation at the time, the scenes where flawless and seamless.
This movie was so successful that there was a sequel, The man from snow river 2 in 1988 but it did not have Kirk to reprise his role. This a real down under film without hiding it, there are scenes where it sometimes feels like a american western film, but it recovers with great Australian scenes and accents from the actors.
Good to watch in the morning or for brunch during weekends, not for everyone's taste especially for those not interested in western genre or oldies movies.
Thoughts : 7 Billion people in the world
World population is expected to be 7 billion next month.
Something to think about, how will this fact affect us and our plans for the future?
Movie Review : 13
This one I just literally stumbled upon, I saw Jason Statham's name together with Micky Rourke and I said, this has gotta be a good action movie.
My assumptions were really off, both Jason and Mickey do not even interact in the movie. But that's not such a bad thing, just shows how off from basic assumptions this movie will be.
This is a remake of the 2005 French movie 13 Tzameti by Géla Babluani and she also directs this american version. I haven't seen the original so I cannot compare both.
This film is all about the story, the emotional reaction of a man or boy perhaps thrust into a situation unthinkable by many. This is intense acting from the leads and the focus is on him and the story. This is probably why the movie did almost felt like it did have a background soundtrack, even on the most intense scenes which made me felt like I was watching a 1960's film which just helps make the viewer focus more on the scene and the acting.
Even before knowing this was helmed by a frenchman, it already felt 1960's and foreign, a bit of tingling notion that it really feels like a french movie but seing Mickey and Jason just adds to the confusion in the mind which also adds to the aura of this movie.
The movie was good but some acting were lacking and at worse, so so. 50 cent I think should just stick with making good music and Mickey Rourke was just ok, probably understandable due to his roles' lack of depth even though it seemed to have its own story line and a bit too much screen time which did not feel to fully developed.
Jason's acting was as expected, very dependable deep thinking good action and a really good fit for the character. The lead, Sam Riley, was good and the intense scenes he had was executed really well, although not an A-list actor and with not much experience he was good but there was scenes where it felt a bit lacking and flat, especially at the beginning.
Very good movie to watch if you have time to concentrate, probably on nights when you cannot sleep and need something to do, turning off the lights with the ambient twilight sound also helps add more depth to the movie you are watching.
Road Warrior : Singapore do’s and dont’s
Singapore being the regional hub of Southeast Asia and only recently pushed down by Shanghai to 2nd busiest port in the world would also be a hub for Road Warriors.
Road Warriors going to or coming from Australia or New Zealand would most likely transit through Hong Kong or Singapore. This is also is the same for anybody needing to go to the secondary and tertiary cities in Southeast Asia, Singapore would be the jumping of point.
Business is growing and multinationals are building up presence in Asia, Singapore is the choice for most. This City state has long been attracting expats and business travelers and the recent attention only helps the country grow more.
Singapore also has one of the best airports in the world, Changi Airport has been awarded the best in recent years and this only adds to the positive reasons why a transit here would be the choice.
Road Warriors frequently coming to Singapore would know most do's and dont's as most would apply to any country one is going to but there would be some distinct differences for each country.
The Law
Singapore is a very strict country and majority obey the law, from as simple as waiting for the green man to light before crossing to do not bring in chewing gums. It would be best to just avoid the hassle and don't bring anything, most important requirements can be bought here anyways.
When crossing the road, even if there is no vehicle, best just to wait for the green man to light up. When smoking, look out for designated smoking areas, best not to light if you are not sure. You'll also know if its ok to smoke as smokers will be gathered wherever it is allowed.
Smokes are very expensive here and don't be tempted to bring in more than what is allowed by customs, there are agents walking around in plain clothes looking for offenders.
Escalator
When taking the escalator, stay on the left if you plan to be stationary, the right side is for people who are in a hurry or want to walk up or down.
Chopping tables
On hawker centers or local food shops, chopping tables is done before ordering. To know if a table has been chopped or reserved by someone, there will be a tissue, hanky, newspaper, id or umbrella on the table or the chair. There might be other items to indicate it's already chopped by the list prior are the common, the most popular way to chop is to use the tissue, its packed in handy containers of about 10 or so sheets.
Eating at hawker centers or coffee shops is a good local way to dine.
Crossing the Road
For road warriors from left hand drive countries, Singapore drives on the right and therefore when crossing the road look right first or better yet look both ways. Although drivers follow the law and would stop and let pedestrians cross first, there will always be some who will disregard such.
Tourist Traps
There are tourist traps around the city, so be sure to avoid such. Avoid Lucky Plaza and Sim Lim. If you plan to purchase electronics, head on to Funan IT Mall. For other big name brands and such, head on to Takashimaya, Paragon, ION, Wisma Atria and Tangs on Orchard road or Vivo City and Harbourfront. Best shopping I think would be at the airport, no 7% GST.
Taxi
Taking the taxi is safe and without stress but it would sometimes be hard to hail one during peak hours, trying to call one would also be hard during peak. You can hail one from almost anywhere but not always, look for signs of taxi stands first as they will almost always be one nearby, especially in the CBD. During peak, there will be a snaking que so be patient.
Aside from the fare, there will be surcharges depending on different criterias, some of which are if you are ride from or alight in the CBD area, Sentosa or Marina Sands, use of Boot surcharge, after midnight Surcharge and ride from Airport surcharge. So don't be surprised when the driver presses the meter and the fare increases instantly. You can always ask for a receipt and it is rare to find a driver who will cheat you.
MRT or Bus
Taking the MRT or Bus is just like when you are in any other developed nation, might even be better is some aspect. Get the E-Zlink card from MRT stations or bus interchanges and you can use it in all buses, MRT and LRT.
Let alighting passengers get out first before boarding and once inside go towards the rear of the bus or at the middle of the train between train doors. Give up your seats to elderly, injured, children or pregnant especially seats marked with reserved.
Eating
Singaporeans are spoiled with so many options to eat, there is always someplace nearby to eat and eating is a national past time and passion. Hawker centers and coffee shops would be the regular places locals eat from, meal usually are from 3 to 7 dollars without drinks. Cafes and Fast food are also abundant with the international brands having presence all over the city. Restaurants would usually charge 7% GST and 10% Service Charge on top of the bill in contrast to Hawkers, Coffee Shops, Cafes and fastfood, which display the final price you can expect on the bill.
If you see a shop with a long que, it does not always mean its gonna be good so look first and decide if it is worth the wait.
English Singlish
English is the primary language of communication but together with Mandarin, Malay and Tamil are the 4 official language of the Country. No problem communicating in English here, but you might encounter Singlish which is a local variation of English mixed with the local cultural flavor.
When you are asked, what time will you go back, that mean what time you go home.
When they say can or can can, that means yes.
There is also almost always lah, leh or wat at the end of a sentence. It would be a bit hard to catch-on at the start but you'll get a hang of it.
Movie Review : Amigo
Shot entirely in the island of Bohol in the Philippines written and directed by John Sayles set in 1900 Philippines during the Filipino-American war. This stars Chris Cooper, who works frequently with John, Garret Dillahunt, DJ Qualls and Filipinos Joel Torre, who also co-produced the film, Bembol Roco and Rio Locsin.
The film had its international debut during the 2011 Asian American International Film Festival last August 10 in New York but had a Philippine debut last year during the 2010 Cinemalaya on July 14. Currently making its round of film festivals and playing in selected North American cities.
Story and director looks good with good american which includes Chris Cooper and add to that great Filipino actors Joel Torre and Bembol Roco with another great Filipina actress Rio Locsin, this will surely be a good movie to look forward to.
No word yet of this one coming to Singapore so I'm waiting for this on DVD, as soon as I get my hands on this one I'll update this post.
Movie Review : The Messenger
The main draw for me to this movie is Woody Harrelson, the description of the movie was not so enticing but since I did not have any other choice at the time, I went for this one.
I was glad at the end to have watched this, the story is not great but the acting and the directing was done well that the movie notched up from what could have been just a simple story.
Woody Harrelson did not overdo his role and just played it very well to support Ben Foster, but their tandem was so good and both acted so well that it felt like the story was about both of them and not just concentrated on Ben's character.
The story gives a back at home feel of how it is coming back from serving in active duty as well as the not so glamorous work of informing family of fallen soldiers. There apparently must be a precise way to break the news and guidelines on how to properly react and conduct oneself in a distinguished manner to uphold the honor of the service, the country and the fallen comrade.
It's not overly complicated and you do not need to concentrate to much, it's good drama and acting and this just shows how a not so great story can be a good movie with good directing and acting.
Best to watch anytime, probably at night before you sleep.
Movie Review : Memento
This one is really good, I started without reading reviews and such and with a clear mind. I half-heartedly expected a movie between good and bad, but it turns out this is an Avant-garde of a film helmed by Christopher Nolan who would later on in his career direct the Prestige, Inception and the new Batman series.
Memento was released in 2000 and was a collaboration with Nolan's brother, Jonathan, although it's not a adaptation because the movie was released prior to the his brother publishing the short story.
This is the only movie with a story unfolding backwards, if you watch this without watching from the start, you better start over again. It's confusing at the beginning but it just fuels you more to be attentive and concentrate on the story and character.
It's just an excellent movie after the finish. If you want a no brainer feel good, slouch in the couch movie, this is not it. This is pleasuring your intellect and mind, pleasure and satisfaction comes at the end and you are at the edge of your seat not because of the thrill or the shock, but because of the movie and as it unfolds, you do not get the big picture until you are at the end and then you say, oh! so that's why!
Watch it anytime when you have energy to concentrate and when you think you need some stimulation for your mind.