15 Reasons Why I Start Blogging

So in case you're wondering why you end up in this page. It is probably because of the title that i put up. First of all, this isn't about the successful "13 Reasons Why" TV show which I loved dearly. But this blog entry is basically all about the 15 reasons why I start writing blogs and what made me want to put it out in public. 

So here goes my 15 reasons!

REASON #1 - I FANCY WRITING

I have a strong dedication to writing. Ever since I learn how to hold a pencil, all I do is write, write and write about things I learn in school, and eventually, I started to write my diary, then a journal. I like expressing myself in the paper. There is nothing else that makes me feel more at ease than expressing myself by writing down my thoughts and feelings. I am the type of person who prefers to list down my views, opinions and possible criticism about specific things. 

REASON #2 - SOME THINGS ARE BEST WRITTEN DOWN

Just like what I have mentioned in Reason #1, some things are better off in written words than spoken words. That is simply because writing it down means more details and information about certain things. I got to say, I like reading fully detailed things, so I would do the same too.

REASON #3 - I HAVE ALWAYS WANTED TO START A BLOG

It took me some time to feel confident and brave enough to start my blog. I remember telling a few of my close friends a few years back that I wanted to start blogging, but I wasn't that confident at that time yet. Luckily, I gained some confidence in myself, and I finally made it happen. So voila and again, welcome to my blog! 

REASON #4 - I LIKE TO EXPRESS MY THOUGHTS, IN WORDS

Don't get me wrong, I like to express myself verbally in front of people, but I think that I can express myself much better by writing it down since I'm into details and I do write quite informative. Plus, every time I write something, I always consider this as an opportunity to learn new words, more profound words and words that are not used very often. Discovering and expressing at the same time are fun in my world, and maybe to some people too.

REASON #5 - I TAKE BLOGGING SERIOUSLY

I have a secret to share with you all. I keep track of my blogs, and I got a schedule for what and when do I start a new blog. What can I say, I am a little crazy organised person, and I prefer to keep things in order. I think that's either a curse or a gift. Either way, it keeps me on track, and I make things happen.

REASON #6 - IT'S A FUN PASSION

I never actually thought that writing blogs would be entertaining to me. I know that writing a diary or journal is fun, but writing blogs are entirely different as it is made for people to see, read the absolute fact and that I have to keep it amusing and engaging. I somehow treat blogging like some experimentation. I don't just focus on blogging one subject, but I do write a ton of categories such as Travel, Dining, Fashion, Lifestyle, Tips and Hiking. I'm all about exploring.

REASON #7 - SOMETHING TO KEEP ME PRODUCTIVE 

I like to be productive and not spending my day off of doing absolutely nothing. So by writing blogs means I am productive, and I'm doing something useful in my life rather than being lazy and be bored at home. I always felt ecstatic and satisfied whenever I finish up a new blog.

REASON #8 - I HAVE A LOT TO SHARE ABOUT LIFE EXPERIENCES

I have been through a lot in life, and I am not ashamed to share most of my life experiences, good or bad, I treat them all as a blessing even though there are time that I may still be super sensitive about my past, but hey at least I learn something, which means something for me to share. Everybody learn life experiences in many different ways, but I know that my experiences can somehow relate to a lot of people, and I am more than happy and willingly would love to share it to people.

REASON #9 - WRITING PUSH ME TO BE CREATIVE

Writing things is not as easy as you may think it is. Writing takes a lot of effort, thoughts in mind and most importantly, how to make it sound exciting and not dull. When I started writing blogs, I honestly would say that I was quite slow, but I am improving, and it has been pushing me to be innovative and making my blog worth reading.

REASON #10 - THIS ISN'T MY FIRST BLOG PAGE

Yes, that's right! This website isn't my first blog page. Back in high school, Xanga.com was very trendy, and everybody at school uses Xanga to write blogs. I was really into it, and I got to say that my blogs back then are very childish and shallow but cute. I remember using a lot of emojis and shortcut words back in the days. I'm just happy that I have upgraded so much from what I used to. 

REASON #11 - I MAKE THINGS HAPPEN

I have told myself millions of times that I would start my blog one day, and indeed, I did. I know it may have taken me years, but I made it happen. I don't say things, but I do what I say, which means I'm not a bullshitter. 

REASON #12 - WRITING HAVE GOT ME TO KNOW MYSELF MUCH BETTER & DEEPER

As I keep writing blogs, I have come to realise more about myself, something I have never noticed before. An example would be I have come to realise how madly crazy I am when it comes to this matter. I care about what I write and how to always improve myself even better. I have also learned how much further I want to gain from blogging. Who knows maybe one day, I will become an influential blogger? I mean anything is possible.

REASON #13 - I BECAME MORE EXPRESSIVE THAN EVER

I have also realised that I have become more and more expressive. I have been more passionate and engaging. 

REASON #14 - I HAVE MY GOOD & BAD MOMENTS

I have deliberated with myself whether I should start my blog or not countless of times. Half of the reason why is that I was afraid of criticism and I'm not very sure how would people react to this. But then I was fortunate enough to have some good people in my life supporting me on this. Without them, I would probably wouldn't have the courage to do it. But of course, everything is still up to me, which by the end of the day, it will always be my decision. 

REASON #15 - IF NOT NOW THEN WHEN

That has said it all, I guess. If not, now then when? I was caught up in between low confidence and lack of motivation to start a blog a few years ago. Until last year, I snapped myself and told myself that I got to do this now or never. I'm 26 years old, but it's still never too late. There isn't any age limit for blogging, and nothing is going to stop me once I started. 

I hope you find this blog entertaining to read. I want to share some bits of the reasons why I started my blog. I think it's important for people to know why and for people to see a bit about my story. 

Yours Truly, 

Michelle Chan

Cruiser Boat Party 2016 at Clear Water Bay (Hong Kong)

The day has finally come to our 2016 Boat Party. This is me and my boyfriend Ryan's 4th year to organize a junk trip. It has always been a pleasure to organize and gather people around in one boat for a one whole day of adventure.

Watch our Boat Party video (Dji Phantom 3) by Ryan Alfon

Get away from the hustle and bustle of Hong Kong in our yearly boat trip at Clear Water Bay along with 45 lovely people. My first video shot with Dji Phantom 3 Standard. Song: You're On by Madeon ft. Kyan

Our boat has arrived

Waiting for the rest of the guest to arrive before boarding

This year, we rented a Cruiser boat with a waterside, a sea flyer float and 1 speed boat (banana boat and wake-boarding). The cruiser includes 2 toilets, 1 bedroom, bar area, karaoke and music system, sun deck area and an indoor air-conditioned lounge area. We rented the boat from "Hoi Fai Boating". The boat looks pretty luxurious and the boat staff were very helpful. 

Western Cruiser with Water Slide

We had 48 people on board and we boarded the boat by 10:30am. We reached Clear Water Bay around 11:30am. Our first choice was to go to Tai Long Wan, Sai Kung but unfortunately it was too far to get there. Clear Water Bay is actually pretty nice too and the scenery is worth the ride.

Clear Water Bay

For the booze we prepared a wide range of beverage choices. For beers, we had Corona, Peroni, Endeavour and Strongbow Ciders. For spirits, we had Finlandia Vodka, Jim Beams Whiskey, Patron Tequila XO Cafe & Dark Cocoa, White Rum and Bombay Gin. Ryan prepared Apperol Spritz for everyone as a welcome drink on board. On the other hand, I have prepared 200 pieces of Jello Shots with 4 different flavors and each have a name in it. The flavors are Strawberry (StrawBello), Lime (Wildfire), Blackcurrant (Rock & Roll) and Pineapple (Tiki Tiki). We also had Champagne, White and Red Wines, Sodas, Juices and of course Water.

Apperol Spritz

Diana grabbing some booze!

Jello Shots 

4 flavours - Strawberry (StrawBello), Lime (Wildfire), Pineapple (Tiki Tiki), Blackcurrant (Rock & Roll) 

Beware of Michelle's Jello Shots

For the food, we have also prepared different selections of food such as, Meatballs with Cheese and Tomato Sauce, Shrimp Salad with Caesar Dressing and Vegetables (Cucumber, Cherry Tomatoes, Lettuce, Corn, and Green Beans), Mini Roll Sushi (Avocado, Crab and Cucumber), Tuna Sandwich, Whole Chicken from La Rotisserie, Chicken & Veggie Wrap, Fruit Platter (Strawberry, Green & Red Grapes and Oranges), Fishball (Soi-mai), Mini Sausages and some Chips.

Nom nom

Here are some of the pictures taken from the trip

Dancing time

As mentioned earlier, it has always been a pleasure for us both to organize a boat trip every year. We feel very happy whenever we see how happy and drunk the people are. It was an another successful boat trip. We can't wait to organize 2017 boat trip!

Yours Sincerely,

Michelle Chan

How To Plan & Organize A Boat Trip

During summer time in Hong Kong, having a boat trip is a very common activity to do and it is probably the best way to spend your summer afternoon in a boat while drinking & eating, socializing, sunbathing and play some water activities such as wakeboarding, banana boat, jet ski and many more.

The idea of planning your own boat party can be fun but at the same time, it can also be challenging. Personally, I had lots of fun and stress but on the brighter side I have learned a lot on how to plan a boat trip and I also have to face some difficulties, particularly when it comes to budgeting. It's been 4 years that me and my boyfriend Ryan has been organizing a boat party and each year we gained and learned something new. 

Here are some tips on how to execute your own boat trip:

Tip #1: Find a reliable and good boat company

There are plenty of boat company that provide boats for hiring but you need to make sure that you pick the right one and if it's up to your budget. During the peak season (April-August) is probably the most expensive time to rent but some boat company provides a reasonable price, while the non-peak season can be a lot cheaper. You can plan your boat party 2-3 months ahead of the date of your trip to inquire about boat rental. The boat company that we have rented for the past 4 years are Sea Lagoon, Vikings Charters, Hong Kong Yachting and Hoi Fai Boating. I would highly recommend the last 2 company. They have much more options for boats, water activities and reliable.

Tip #2: Choose the suitable and nice boat for your party

If you want to go for the standard boat and not expensive, you can choose the Chinese White Junk or the Wooden Junk. They normally cost between HK$6,000-HK$15,000. If you want to go for a luxurious boat, it will be expensive around HK$16,000-HK$25,000. While they are some boat company that provides a big yacht or a cruiser with slide and jacuzzi, which will cost around HK$20,000-HK$30,000. The speedboat and water activities are upon request with extra cost included. It normally costs around HK$2,000-HK$2,500 (during weekdays) and HK$3,000-HK$3,500 (during weekends). Most of the boat company will require a 50% deposit as a guarantee for your booking and the balance should normally be paid 1-2 weeks before your trip. Be sure to have your payments ready for securing your boat and for the balance, if you missed the deadline, the boat company have all the rights to release your reservation.

Tip #3: Pick the right date

Picking the right date is the most important of all. During the weekends, it will be more convenient for people who work in offices as they always get weekends off but weekends will be expensive compared to the weekdays. It will all depend on who you are inviting and when are they available. Asking people around when is the best time will be a great idea but bare in mind that the last decision is always going to be on you, as organizers you have all the right to chose the date. 

Tip #4: Choose the best destination for pick up/ drop off and which beach to go to

Some boat is cheaper to rent if the pickup/ drops off point are located in Sai Kung, as most boats come from there. But you have to consider the transportation, whether it will be convenient for your guest to transport to Sai Kung. Alternatively, you can choose the pickup/ drop off to beat Central Pier No. 9 or No. 10 (this is where normally you get pick up for boat parties). For the boat destination, Sai Kung is obviously the best place to go to but it will be far coming from Central Pier. I would highly recommend going to Clear Water Bay, Repulse Bay or Stanley Beach. If you can't decide on where to, you can simply create a survey on your event page (Facebook) and let your guest choose where they prefer to go. 

Tip #5: Sort out your budgeting on boat expenses, food & beverage expenses and other expenses

Taking a lot of time budgeting your cost on boats and expenses for food & beverage is probably the first thing you should do before announcing your event. You need to sum up all the total cost and break-even it with at least 80% of the total number of guest. 

For example, The total cost of the boat is HK$20,000 and the total number of guest are 40 people. Instead of dividing the total cost to 40, you need to divide it into 32 (80% of 40 people). The reason for this is to avoid losing money. There may be some people who may cancel (especially when not paid). Once you have reached 32 people (paid) then you won't have any problem. It will be a sure thing that you do not need to take out your own money to pay out the remaining cost if you didn't have enough people. 

It is always up to you whether you want to add extra cost for your own profit or you can chose to be honest and do not charge any extra cost. After all, you have work hard to organize a boat party and a little bit of profit wouldn't hurt. 

Tip #6: Plan your marketing (make a timeline)

Although the boat trip is not for business purpose but it is also a wise choice to have a marketing or implementation planning. You will need to sort out when you will need to start inviting people and when they should be handling out their payments. You may also create a promotion for big group discounts to attract people and a few advertisement of what beverage or activities you are going to provide them on board to make the people interested.

Sample for marketing plan to attract people

Sample for marketing plan to attract people

Tip #7: Make an event page and start inviting people

By creating an event page for your boat party is probably the easiest and convenient way to spread out the event. Facebook will be the best choice, since everybody uses Facebook. Always bare in mind that you need to make the event fun and attractive.

The event banner I created for our 2016 boat party

Tip #8: Start collecting the payments

You need to know when to ask people to send their payments and what will be the easiest and convenient way for them to send the payments to you. I would suggest through bank transfers. I will not suggest "cash on the day" as people can always cancel the last minute and you will have no time to find any replacements, hence you will lose money. "Cash on the day" should only be allowed when it is a last minute invite/ inquiry or when you think you can trust the people then why not.

Tip #9: Make a list of food & beverage and plan when to buy it

Keeping track and listing down the food & beverage that you need for the boat party, unless you are going to order the food & beverage directly from the boat company, then there is no need for you to keep a list for this part. I would also recommend you to list down the prices of all the products that you have purchase for your own record. Making a timeline on when to buy the items will also help you to organise yourself and to make sure that all items are already on hand. 

Tip #10: Track down records on who's coming and who have paid

Making a guest list will give you an easier life to know who's confirmed and who has paid. This will be also help you on your boat trip day to know who's present and who's missing in the group.

Tip #11: Inquire a van for rent

If you have plenty of stuff to bring to the boat party such as, trays of food, beverages and other stuff, you should definitely hire a van. I would suggest "Go Go Van". You may inquire and a quote from their website. 

Tip #12: Remember to remind everyone about where to meet and what time to meet

Take some time to post something on the event page at least 1 week before the trip, 3 days before the trip and a day before the trip. Believe me, people actually forgets the information on where to meet and what time to meet, so a friendly reminder to your guest will be nice. You need to advance the meeting time to at least 15-30 minutes early. For example: the boat arrives the pier at 10am, you will need to ask everyone to meet at 9:30am and remind them that boat will leave exactly at 10am sharp. For this, majority of the people will not come late.

Tip #13: Be there extra early

As an organizer, being early is a must. You should be the first one to arrive, arriving late can be quite embarrassing to your guest. 

Tip #14: Check your attendance and you're ready to board!

Before boarding, make sure you check your attendance, in order to make sure that everyone has arrive and call the people who haven't reach the meeting place. Remember to always accommodate and entertain your guest. Be a good host and people will surely come back for your next boat party. 

The downside:

I can name a lot of downside for organising a boat party. The stress will always be there, looking for people to come to your party and asking for payments can be quite stressful as well as executing your food and beverage menu. Just always be patience and don't lose control of yourself. If anyone decline your invite, don't be too bother and don't get mad, there will be other people who will be more willing to come, don't worry!

What to avoid:

Try to avoid losing money, it is not fun having to use your own money to pay off the remaining balance on the boat expenses. You have to make sure that your budgeting is well-planned and that everyone who has come to the boat party have paid.

The good outcome:

Although organising a boat party can get pretty stressful but after you see all the happy faces of your guest, all your hard work will be all worth it. Once you execute a successful boat party, you will gain yourself a reputation of hosting an awesome boat trip and the people who has been in your party will most likely come to your next boat trip.  

Yours Sincerely,

Michelle Chan

Happy Hearts Day!

This year's Valentines my date is none other than my boyfriend, Ryan. This is our 4th Valentines together and so far I am still not sick of him being my date (Just kidding!). 

As we were so hooked with the TV show  "Hells Kitchen" by Gordon Ramsay. We then both decided to go to Bread Street Kitchen & Bar located in Central. We wanted to have a taste of one of Gordon Ramsay's restaurant. 

We went there on February 16, 2016, 2 days later than the actual V-day due to work reason. It doesn't really matter if we don't celebrate it on the 14th, what matters is we did celebrate it and plus we don't have to eat dinner in such a busy crowd. 

We made the booking at 9:15pm but we were running late so we reached there by 9:30pm. The interior style was very modern, relaxing and It is actually quite a big place. 

My valentines date

For starters, we had Pan Fried Scallops (a must try and super tasty) and Sesame Seared Yellow Fin Tuna (a must try too! although the portion could be a bit bigger)

Pan Fried Scallops

Seared Yellow Fin Tuna

For main course, we had the Traditional Shepherd's Pie cooked with Potato Puree, Parmesan, Beioche Garlic Crumbs (It is quite heavy despite it came in a small tray, the pie was tasty), and we also ordered the Rib Eye Steak worth of 12oz/350grams (we were just a bit dissappointed on how it was cooked but we still finished it). 

Rib Eye Steak 12oz/350g

Rib Eye Steak

For dessert, we had the Chocolate tart with Salted Caramel Ice Cream both for sharing as we were really getting full but we just wanna try out their dessert to end our dinner.  The Caramel Ice Cream particularly was very yummy. 

Chocolate Tart with Caramel Ice Cream

Overall, the food was quite satisfying but I just wanna point out one thing that we both agreed that the starters are more yummier than the main course. I mean the main course was good but we feel like the starters were better. The service was good and I appreciate them for giving us a nice sofa table. 

I can't wait to try London House in Tsim Sha Tsui soon! 

Yours Sincerely, 

Michelle Chan

My 25th Birthday

Some say getting old sucks and while some say getting old brings a new endeavour in life. It really doesn't matter. Age doesn't matter at all! 

For me, I love birthdays, I like to celebrate it and spend it with my family and friends. This year I choose to celebrate it in a very simple dinner and drinks with friends during the countdown and family dinner on my exact birth date. By the way, my actual birthday is on December 27 and I just turned 25 years old.

This year I choose to celebrate my birthday dinner or you could also say countdown celebration in PIRATA located in Wan Chai. Pirata is my favorite Italian restaurant in Hong Kong. It is the best and the ambiance is very overwhelming and relaxing. It is the perfect place to celebrate a special occasion. 

Birthday dinner at Pirata

I booked the place at around 9:30pm and as usual i am the earliest to arrive, knowing how punctual my friends are (But i still love them). We all started off with a glass of Prosecco complimentary from my boyfriend Ryan, who happens to be working in Pirata as well as one of the awesome bartender. 

I have already planned out which food to order. I actually have a list! What can I say, I like to be well-organised. 

For Starters, we had Vitello Tonnato (very delicious!), Fresh Garden Tomato Bruschetta (My all-time favourite), M.M.M. (My Mama's Meatballs) and some Cold Meats and Cheese Selections.

For Main courses, we had the Butchers' Cut (something to die for), Pappardelle with Duck Ragu, Tagliatelle with Black Truffle (the scent of the truffle is just great) and Honest Risotto (the best risotto i have ever had).

Delicious Butcher's Cut

For Desserts, we had Tiramisu and the 25 cupcakes that I brought it. Yes I actually got myself 25 pieces of cupcakes to match with my age HEH!

BUT before the dessert part, they surprised me with a birthday countdown while bringing in the cupcakes and the tiramisu dessert with a "Happy Birthday Michelle" wording made requested by my friend, Naz and also an unexpected birthday cake from a bestie (RITIKA aka the Indian Goddess) who lived all the way in Guangzhou and was unfortunately wasn't able to come, but instead surprised me with a cake!!! I was speechless and happy!!!

Counting down with the love of my life

My 25 cupcakes

Blessed at 25

Shot! Shot! Shot!

More cupcakes selfie

More birthday selfies

After the dinner, we went to LKF to continue the party there! What a night to remember indeed.

Partying at Magnum LKF

We dance all night!

I truly feel grateful that I have these amazing people around me during my most special day. I would like to take this chance to thank everybody who have greeted me, to the Pirata team that took care of us that night and for just simply being awesome!, to my friends who came to my birthday dinner (Naz, Vicky, Kenny, Ariel, Reinhard and Pauline), Thanks to my awesome boyfriend for making it extra special by being there during my birthday and for being there for the past 4 years, to my family for being supportive and of course to GOD.

I am looking forward to my 26th birthday in 2016!

3 more days till 2016.. Woooohooooo!!!

Yours Truly,

Michelle Chan