Our first INTERNATIONAL Trip

My passport was supposed to get expired by next year and till now I've only used it to make photocopies to submit in my companies and as proof for getting a marriage certificate. Same fate for my wife's passport as well. But, finally, we have used it to travel outside India. On my last trip, I got close to a foreign country was Bangladesh border and this time I successfully crossed our border.

Tegallalang Rice Terrace

And, the destination Bali was my wife's dream destination, I didn't even have any idea about this beautiful destination.

Day -1: The Start

Our flight to Singapore was on Monday midnight, we started as early as possible. While on the way Uber driver asked as "Domestic ah International ah?", we both were waiting for that question since we started and answered in chorus "INTERNATIONAL". Hearing our enthusiastic answer he would have found out it was our first time. And, after clicking selfies and check-ins finally found that lounge for HDFC cardholders where you can rest and also have a buffet dinner for a mere amount. It was like a myth to me since I've heard it many times and never experienced it. Finally, I found that lounge and had that buffet before boarding.

Day 0: SINGAPORE in a day.

The first stop was Singapore on Tuesday morning. Since our flight to Bali was on Wednesday morning we had 23 hours of transit time, we decided to use that time as an opportunity to make it as a Singapore trip. Singapore was not even in our plan, but this was the cheapest flight available to Bali so we have added Singapore into our itinerary. We have already booked tickets for two attractions in Singapore.

After finishing the immigration, our first country outside India, we decided to look around the world's best airport. But, we were able to see only that giant artificial waterfalls inside the Changi airport and we proceeded to our hotel. It was hot already and after having breakfast in a hotel full of Tamil people from Madurai we took some rest and went out to explore Singapore. We had too many places on our list, but too little time.

First, we visited the Red Dot Design Museum to collect our tickets to The Gardens By the Bay and decided to walk towards that. We visited the Flower Dome first since it was about to close. It was beautiful with so many flowers, we pretty much covered everything before they could kick us out.

Flower Dome

Flower Dome

The next spot was the Cloud Forest. Cloud Forest was too good with an amazing waterfall and the whole place was wonderful with amazing artificial falls and surrounded by forests on the clouds. And, it was airconditioned, thank god.

Cloud Forest's waterfalls

Cloud Forest

We were already so tired we still had too many places to visit. We proceeded to the Marina Bay Sands where we can get a view of Singapore from the 57th floor. The view was absolutely stunning. And, Singapore looks so pretty in the night. 

View from the 57th floor, Marina Bay Sands

That's the view of Gardens By The Bay from Marina Bay Sands

Now, we have to come back to The Gardens By the Bay to visit the final attraction of Supertree Grove, before 8:00, but the time was already 7:40. It's a long walk again so we were in a dilemma whether to try or skip that. But,  OCBC Skywalk above that Supertree Grove was one of the places I wanted to visit since we booked a ticket, we literally made a run for it. We were completely exhausted. When we reached the Sound and Music show was already started and everyone was laying on the ground and enjoying so no one was there to show the way to the ticket counter. Finally, we found it and gave us the next time slot and when we looked up after settling in the line the show was over. The lights were switched off, we were very disappointed. After waiting more than 30 minutes in the line, we went up to that skywalk. It was another beautiful view. And, when we were on that skywalk, they started that show again and it was spectacular to view it from the top as well. And, I was completely satisfied.

Supertree Grove

Supertree Grove, OCBC Skywalk

Marina Bay Sands from OCBC Skywalk

Supertree Grove

And, it was too late and we were too tired and we came back to the hotel. We missed that iconic Merlion Park, we were looking forward to that place. That place is similar to our Chennai Central, in every movie they show Chennai Central for Chennai and that Lion statue for Singapore.

When we reached the hotel our cab driver warned us it was not a good area and asked us to avoid staying here next time. After hearing this I was unable to sleep and waiting to leave this place and go to the airport. And, we started at midnight 2 and reached the airport even 3 hours before. And, after self-check-in which was a new experience, we wanted to look around all those attractions inside the airport terminals. But, they said the trains covering the terminals will open only after 5 and we were disappointed. But, at 5 we decided to go around on that train to see the Butterfly Garden, Enchanted Garden. We went around the terminals 2 and 3 covering those spots, but it was still dark. At least that Skytrain inside the airport was too cool and we were happy we at least made to those gardens before leaving Singapore.

Singapore Flyer

SINGAPORE

The people here were very helpful and polite. The traffic was heavy in the morning. And, it was hot even for a guy from Chennai. And, we should come back to have a look around all those places in leisure soon.

Day 1: Landed in Bali

The next day morning we landed in our actual destination Bali. Thankfully our guide was waiting with our name board. After welcoming us with garlands, we proceeded to our hotel while the guide spoke about Bali and also about him for some time. After, reaching the nice hotel, Jani's Place Cottage, we just roamed around that street which was filled with too many restaurants and spas. And, we couldn't walk much after our tiring day in Singapore and it was hot in here as well. We had dinner nearby and back to the hotel since we had to start early the next day.

Jani's Place Cottage

Day 2: The glorious and hot Nusa Penida

This was an awesome day and also one of the hottest days. We woke up as early as 4:30 to get ready by 6:00 to start to the harbor where we had to take a fast boat to reach the Nusa Penida Island. We were first to reach the harbor so we had to spend an hour there waiting to catch the boat. And, the boat ride was just 45 minutes. Once reaching that beautiful island it was clear that we are gonna get roasted in the heat. Our first stop was at Angel's Billabong and Broken Beach, two beaches with some fantastic views. Just 30 minutes in that place we were dehydrated completely.

Angel's Billabong

Broken Beach

Then we proceeded to have lunch and next to "THE" destination of Nusa Penida, KelingKING Beach which was the mother of all beaches with some spectacular views. Number one in our bucket list when we decided to visit Nusa Penida. We can't believe we were actually there. The T-Rex shaped rock was mesmerizing to watch even from the top. But, because of the sun, we didn't have the energy to climb all the way down. But, still, even from the top the view was amazing which ends our day at Nusa Penida. Back to the harbor and back to the hotel which took longer due to traffic.

T-Rex, KelingKING Beach

KelingKING Beach

KelingKING Beach

KelingKING Beach

KelingKING Beach

Day 3: Bedugul, North Bali

And, today we were on the Northside of Bali, Bedugul. Our first destination was the most Instagrammed Handara Gate where we were given 10 minutes for the pictures. Another destination which was on our bucket list.

Handara Gate

Handara Gate

Next place was Git Git Waterfalls. I didn't expect it to be this good. When we visited it was deserted and that tall falls were amazing which became my favorite spot in Bali. It was a little scary to get all the way near to that falls.

Git Git Waterfalls

Git Git Waterfalls

And, after lunch, we went to Ulun Danu Temple which was by the lake with some amazing views. Contrary to the previous day it started raining heavily which was rare in Bali. And, it was amazing to experience that as well. Overall, another satisfying day and bathing in Git Git was an unforgettable experience.

Ulun Danu Temple

Ulun Danu Temple

Ulun Danu Temple

Day 4: Ubud

And, this day started with a visit to an art market, but things were costlier than the street shops. Then, next to Kopi Luwak coffee plantation place. Where we got to see the process and also we were given some 12 different varieties of teas and coffees to taste. Also, we tasted that famous Luwak Coffee and also bought some tea and coffee powders for back home.

The next stop was Bali Bird Park, which we expected to be boring, but it had many colorful birds and also they let some birds sit on you to pose for pictures.

BirdMan, Bali Bird Park

Bali Bird Park

And, the next destination was another one in our bucket list, Tegallalng Rice Terrace where we experienced that famous Bali Swing, it was really a must-try. And, that place had some amazing views.

Tegallalang Rice Terrace

Tegallalang Rice Terrace

Tegallalang Rice Terrace

Bali Swing, Tegallalang Rice Terrace

Followed that with Campuhan Ridge Walk, where two rivers join and we can go on a trek in that mountain with some amazing views. Then, we visited the local Ubud Market to do that much-needed purchase of our trip with our excellent bargaining skills :D:D. And, the last spot was Saraswati Temple, where there was no Saraswati Idol at all, but the architecture was good. Which ends our satisfying Bali trip.

Saraswati Temple, Ubud

Campuhan Ridge Walk

Day 5: The END

And, this day was nothing but to rest and pack our bags. We boarded our flight to Malaysia (adding one more country to our list :D :D) and spent a few hours at that airport before catching our flight to Chennai. And, the news back home, it was raining heavily on "December 1st" just like it was that famous day. We were hoping to land in Chennai safely and the sky was actually clear and it wasn't raining as predicted. And, that ends our first and successful INTERNATIONAL trip without any hiccups.

That's me at the end of our trip "FULLY BROKE"

Bali was hot and the people here were insanely polite and helpful. Be it any time of the day they always greet you with a smile and they all were very religious as well. Ganesh statues were all over in Ubud. And, looks like they have their own version of Ramayana where the places were changed. And, none of the hotels offer you free water, you were supposed to buy bottled water. And, the landscape especially Ubud with a lot of rice farms looked very similar to our Tamil Nadu.

And, finally, I am very happy and also relieved to finish an international trip. I was so afraid and nervous about my first international trip, but it turned out to be an awesome experience with a lot of sweet memories and we feel like we have achieved something big :D :D

These are very few pictures from a total of 3K pictures we have clicked so far on this trip :D :D.

Premam - A Special Show

Premam - One of my most favorite movies of all time I swear. You can even check my four most favorite movies in my http://letterboxd.com/karthic_s. My friends at Kone and my old roommates know how much I was obsessed with this movie. I kinda singlehandedly made most of my colleagues to watch it at least once there.

I ended up watching it six times in the theatre, but those were the times I didn't have any Premam in my life. And, I was like if only I can watch this with someone special in my life. But, it was a lost opportunity. Even though it ran over 200 days here I kept watching it with my "pasanga" gang only.

Then came this fantastic opportunity to relive it again on big screen in this month of February, the month of love. I never thought this day would come in my life for a special show of a special movie with my special person. So, I didn't want to miss it and booked the tickets right away once it got opened. And, I was so excited as if I'm going to watch FDFS of some the most expected movie and a little nervous too since I want her to like this as well. I've created so much hype. Now, all that left was to make it on time and hope it will live up to the expectations I've created.

And, after some little hurdle, we did make it on time. There was actually only a fewer number of couples compared to the "pasanga" gangs, but the screen was 90% occupied. The crowd was mostly silent until the beat of "Kalippu" started. Easily the best transformation from a school kid to a college student in cinema. And, from then on there were whistles and hoots which gave goosebumps. And, no need to mention the reception Malar got even now, which was more than the hero Nivin himself.

It was all nostalgic, to see Shambu, Koya, Mava, Shivam master, etc and each and every character right from the start till the end. All I want is to watch the movie with the director once again and ask every silly question that comes to mind to him. And, finally ask him about his next, each and every one involved in that movie have done many movies already.

So, I was enjoying it as usual, as if I am watching it for the first time. But, the most important part was to know how she feels watching all this. Throughout the movie, I kept throwing all the trivia I know about the movie and about every character in the movie. And, from time to time I kept looking at her face to know the reaction and the mood of her. And, I think she did the same once Malar appeared on the screen, I hope I kept a straight face.

At the end of the movie, just like any movie in the MCU, asked her to wait till the mid-credit scene. And, when I came out asked her "Epdi?" "Is it worth all the hype I created?" Waiting to know the answer, as if I made the movie. I am so relieved that she liked the movie and understood all the hype I've created. Thank you Luxe Cinemas for making this happen.

A special movie's special show made even more special since I watched it with the most special person in my life. Finally, an achievement unlocked, which I never expected to happen.

Now, if only I get to watch my other favorite movie Minnale again with her on a big screen again. 

'Thala' Deepavali 2017 - Aalaporan 'Thalapathy'

Meyatha Maan - Since we have already booked to go Mersal the next day to Deepavali. I haven't booked any movie to watch on Deepavali. But, my Deepavali would be incomplete without a movie, so booked this a few hours before the show-time. But, thank god it wasn't a disappointing at all. Actually, it turned out to be a best decision on my 'Thala' Deepavali

 

 

 

The movie was totally fresh and entertaining. It has one-side love, friendship and also sister sentiment. The movie is all about the four characters, our hero 'Idayam' Murali, his best friend Vinoth, his one side lover Madhu and his sister Sudar.

 

I loved most of the dialogues. I burst out laughing for most of it. And, Vaibhav's Chennai slang also helps. He really fits 'Idayam' Murali perfectly, who owns a local orchestra and the lead singer in it. But, the show stealer for me is Vivek Prasanna, who has done Vinoth's role. He was last seen in Vikram Vedha as Ravi.

 

Between the two ladies Indhuja, who's Vaibhav's sister was terrific than the heroine Priya. Priya doesn't have much scenes or I don't remember seeing her much in the first half.

 

The most important department in a rom-com is music, so that you don't feel bored. Here, SaNa and Pradeep are in terrific form. I felt the second half was little dragging and reminded me of SMS movie. Also, couldn't find out how exactly Madhu falls for Murali.

 

Overall a fantastic debut for Ratna Kumar. Solid writing, brilliant characters and witty dialogues make this a wonderful watch. I don't know how wise to release it with Mersal. I hope people don't miss this as well.

 

Mersal - Once again Vijay is back with Atlee after their blockbuster Theri. And, once again I've no idea why this movie is titled 'Mersal' just like 'Theri'. First thing first, after the atrocious look in Bairavaa, Vijay looks terrific in this movie. He seems to be getting younger, ya I know this sounds cliched. But, after Theri once again he's making me to look myself and feel bad about my fitness.

 

My fav shot from this song.

 

 

For the third time Atlee has remade a classic. After Mouna Ragam, Satriyan this time he decides to go with Apoorva Sagotharargal (but it reminds many other movies as well). And, he has done his work very well to fit an ordinary revenge drama with some social message and it worked really well.

 

The main positive factor is Vijay, no atrocious hairdo, no irritating voice modulation. And, ya he speaks too many punch dialogues directed at the audience, which works well in this setup rather than Puli kind of film. His dance movements were terrific after some time. And, he smokes on screen after quite some time I guess. If you are wondering why this is to differentiate between the two look alike Vijay. One who smokes is Vetri, the magician and who doesn't is Maran, the doctor.

 

Other than Vijay only Nitya Menon gets some role and shares a good chemistry with Vijay in the 80s flashback portion. Next comes S J Surya, the villain, who was good in few scenes. The other two heroines character comes for maximum 10 mins with a song each. And, Satyaraj to listen to the flashbacks. Vadivelu is back, again still expecting a proper comeback for him, this movie doesn't have enough screen time for him.

 

Atlee always does well in presentation. Each and every frame was glossy and the cameraman Vishnu has hit a century on debut. Also, the screenplay was engaging enough which made me sit through almost 3 hours without any complaint. Vijayendra Prasad's touch was visible especially in the flashback portion.

 

And, ya this movie did remind me of many of many other hit Tamil movies. Sivaji, Ramana, Kaththi, etc., to name a few. Also, a lot of questions comes to mind. How Kovai Sarala met Maran? Vadivel met Maran? Why Vetri didn't meet his brother all these years? Why Dr Arjun didn't recognize Maran? Why wait so long for taking revenge? Has Vetri killed any other doctors before? And, that mandatory "aal-marattam" scene in the second half with the look alikes. Maran isn't a Jeevanantham, who can't fight, so that was not needed I guess.

 

But, the thing is none of this came to mind while watching. And, that's the success of a mass movie. Overall Mersal was a satisfying festival movie for me. It would be great if Ajith and Vijay does movies like Managaram, Vikram Vedha, but still Vijay's next step is clear (political) we can only get these and as far as Ajith's concern looks like his next is also going to be with Siva, so we better don't discuss it.

 

Meyatha Maan - 3.5/5.0.
Mersal - 3.5/5.0.

 

So, we are quite satisfied with both our outings in our 'Thala' Deepavali.

Happy Birthday to me - Thanks to my அவள்

It's been a while since I blogged, it's not like nothing interesting have happened or I didn't watch any movie since my last blog. A lot of things have happened, got married and it's more than a month now, getting married itself was interesting, but pretty time-consuming. So, didn't get time to blog. Here we go, my first blog post after my wedding. Obviously, this post is one and only because of my அவள்.

My first birthday after my wedding was a perfect birthday I've ever had. Until now I haven't planned anything for my birthday, but this time my அவள் has planned something and executed perfectly. It was a memorable 'Thala' birthday for me.

If you ask how would I spent a holiday. I would say will watch movies on my laptop. And, if you ask me whether I will not go out at all. I would say sure I'll go out in the evening and that would be to watch a movie in a theatre. So basically it would be just movies. Since my birthday is a holiday usually, I would usually do the same.

I always wondered before wedding what would happen if 'she' is not interested in watching movies or not interested in going to theaters. How would you even find this in a matrimony profile? But, thank god, she is equally interested in watching movies, till she met me she didn't have a good company to go to cinemas. And, since my engagement, I made sure we watched one or two movies per week. And, sometimes we went to Satyam just to have that popcorn.

So, her plan was to go to the theatre, so she has booked tickets without my knowledge. But, it is not for one or even two, she planned for three movies back to back. I am sure she would have never seen three movies within a month before meeting me.

The first movie was 'American Made', I know she's coming for that movie just for me and had no idea about the movie since she asked me 'Who?', When I exclaimed "Oh! We are starting with a 'Tom Cruise' movie. So, she slept off midway. The next was a Telugu movie, Mahanubhavudu, again she would have never imagined watching Telugu movies and all in big screens or anywhere for that matter before our engagement. So, once again it's for me, but we kinda enjoyed this movie since it wasn't a usual Telugu masala. The final one was 'Magalir Mattum', looked like we didn't have many options to end our marathon. So, this one is for her since I am a "theevira" Simran fan once upon a time and hated "overacting" Jo, still it was tolerable. 

Even though I spoiled the surprise for me by getting to know the plan about a movie marathon. But, that doesn't stop this from being an awesome day. Still, I got a surprise cake cutting at my home previous day itself before we started to Chennai and also a wish from her at midnight in the middle of our travel to Chennai in the train, again unexpected.
 

This is not the first time I've seen three movies continuously in a day, but I've seen only on my laptop in my room. This is the first time in big screens, juggling between the screens in a multiplex. And, I've seen only two movies back to back in big screen before. So, this is the first and most unforgettable experience.

We know we've spent too much time in a mall when we handed over our parking ticket that guy at the counter couldn't stop smiling looking at the hours we spent there. Though I planned a surprise for her birthday, the day was as usual as any weekend. She planned enough surprises and also perfect plan for throughout the day and made my birthday an unforgettable memory.

You have got an understanding wife when she knows what you would like and she plans that for your birthday. I look forward to more and more surprises and special days going forward and I am sure there are more in store.

கன்னம் சுருங்கிட நீயும், 

மீசை நரைத்திட நானும், 

வாழ்வின் கரைகளைக் காணும் 

காலம் அருகினில் தானோ?