MOVED -

So, after much contemplation - I finally gave in and paid for a domain.
I'm not blogging at
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These Traveling Feet -

Feel free to come and visit ;)

Travel Apps Must Haves -

Traveling can be very stressful -- delays, cancelation, etc.
But luckily, more and more innovative developers have come up with an amazing range of apps designed to make our travels smoother.


I want to Book/Plan ________ (insert related items here) -

Skyscanner: A very clean-looking app that does everything you need it to do when it comes to flight searches. The app aggregates fares from both airlines and other big travel sites so you're guaranteed to bag the best deal. There is also an option to pin the search to your start screen so users can keep an eye on the price fluctuations.

Available on IOS (free) and Android (free).

TripIt: This is, by far, the closest thing most of us can have to a PA. And of course, a lot cheaper too ;) All you have to do is forward your original confirmation from vendors to plans@tripit.com and the app will automatically generates your itinerary for you. You can edit the itinerary even from your mobile devices and also able to share it with friends/families.

Available on IOS (free) and Android (free).

I want to Navigate __________ (insert related cities here) -

Grab (formerly GrabTaxi & MyTeksi): With the largest pool of drivers in Southeast Asia, Grab offers the fastest booking service and reliable rides at the touch of a screen. You can choose to pay by cash or credit card and your receipt will be sent directly to your registered email.

Currently only serving Indonesia, Malaysia, Singapore, Thailand, the Philippines and Vietnam.

Available on IOS (free) and Android (free).

Waze: A GPS-meets-social networking app with a rather accurate result. Just tap in your destination and user-submitted traffic reports will make sure you get there as quick as possible. There's also a speech recognition option for those with their hands on the wheel.

So who needs a sat-nav right?

Available on IOS (free) and Android (free).

Made it to the Destination, it's time to Explore -

TripAdvisor: Whenever I need brutally honest reviews of hotels/restaurants/attractions, this is my go-to app. It strips away the usual glossy reviews one may find on a typical touristy info-mag. But some users of this app are hard to please. You most likely will find complaints next to your favourite spots -- so beware ;)

Available on IOS (free) and Android (free).

Time Out: Offers an in-depth coverage in an ever growing number of cities. Can be useful in both your home country and while traveling. All you need to do is switch the city, tap the relevant "Near Me" option and, voila, you get the updated recommendations neatly on your mobile screen.

Available on IOS (free) and Android (free).

Be Sure to Avoid Miscommunication -

Google Translate: Unbeatable - as far as general translation apps go. Boasts enough features to satisfy most users (if you're a pedantic linguist, then too bad). One thing I'm most intrigued about is the "word lens" tool where you point your camera to the foreign word and have it translated in real time on your screen.

Available on IOS (free) and Android (free).

Memrise: An incredibly well designed app. It uses images to make learning easy and fun. Not a replacement for a proper language tuition but it helps to get the basics or keep yourself fresh on grammar/vocabulary. Also available in offline mode :)

Available on IOS (free) and Android (free).


So -- browse well, take your pick and start globe-trotting!

Relocating Overseas? Five Things That Might Help -

Cross-posted from my blog, The Runaway Expat.

*     *     *     *

Moving abroad for the first time can (occasionally) be a very baffling decision.
But if you're considering it, I'd say "Go for it!" --

It will not only be life changing; but a rewarding experience too. Trust me.


Research -

So you've accepted this amazing job offer in a far-flung land. Go online -- get to know where you're going, talk to people who have been there. You know, do something about it. If possible, ask your new company to allow a pre-visit so you'll know what to expect when you arrive.

Meet People - 

When you first arrive in your new host country, it is important to meet people and make new friends. Get involve at school (if you're a parent), seek out local groups and don't just stick to the expats (though I quite like InterNations community). Not isolating yourself from others can greatly improve your perspective of your new home and it helps to have local (and expats alike) friends to connect with.

Learn the Language - 

This doesn't mean you have to be fluent in the span of one month. But, yes, learn the language of your new home. It'll make life much easier especially if you're going to live in a country where English isn't widely spoken. Know the basic at the very least. It will help you get around, and boost relationships at your new workplace.

Be Open; Embrace Independence - 

If you've always been dependent on someone (it could be your parents, spouse, etc.), you might have a hard time abroad. It is important to learn how to do things yourself. You also need to be comfortable being alone, be open to surprises and not always compare your host country to your home. Sure, the grass might be greener at home but if you keep thinking about it, it'll make your transition a very hard one.

"No Vacancies" - 

Don't underestimate how many guests you will have in your first year abroad. Sometimes, these requests might even come from people you haven't heard from in years. I'm not saying say no to everyone; but don't let yourself get overbooked. You need time to get to know your new city, your new life. Constantly having guests to entertain is certainly not conducive.


And honestly. It will not be a bed of roses -- there will be times when your new expat life displeases you, when you desperately want to go home to your comfort zone. But then, there will be days when you realise how lucky you are to have the opportunities many can only dream of having.


So, live it up.
Bon Voyage! Gueti Reis! 잘다녀오십시오!


All the very best of luck with your new adventure.

Seoul's Hidden Photo Spots -

I often find myself snapping constantly throughout my trip(s) so I can capture every moment. I personally like one-of-a-kind places with cute murals and all that --

It has been a while since my last trip to South Korea -- the last being in 2013. I had no idea there are a lot of very distinct, full of character photo spots in there (Seoul, to be exact).


Ihwa Mural Village -

If you're a Korean drama fan, then I'm sure you'll be familiar with this village -- yes, it is the filming location of TV dramas 'The Girl Who Sees Smells' and 'Rooftop Prince'. Approximately 60 artists took part in the project of painting the walls and installing sculptures in the village.

This project was carried out in 2006 by the local Public Art Committee in order to improve the environment of this village.

Photo Credit: AirAsia

Photo Credit: Trip Advisor

This village is located in Ihwa-dong area, Jongno-gu (Seoul). To get there, take Seoul Subway Line 4 to Hyehwa Station. Use Exit 2, walk for about 15 minutes and you will not miss it.

Naksan Park -

To get to Naksan Park, you will need to do a little 300m hike up the "mountain" -- this mountain is a solid granite bedrock located not far from Ihwa Mural Village. 

In 2002, it was designated as a park -- being in the centre of Seoul, this park allows visitors to have a magnificent view of the entire city. 

Photo Credit: TimeOut

Photo Credit: Trip Advisor

You can get to Naksan Park easily by walking through Ihwa Mural Village. Just walk the same street up the hill for about 300m and you will arrive at Naksan Park.

Gyeongnidan-gil Road -

A 1-km long road, filled with all sorts of attractions, entertainment and cuisines from around the world. The liveliness of this place is unlike any other neighbourhood in Seoul. 

With N-Seoul Tower in the Northern side and Itaewon in its Southern side, Gyeongnidan-gil Road has now become well known among travellers and locals alike, who are looking for a unique place to chill out. 

Photo Credit: Visit Korea 

Photo Credit: Visit Korea

It is fairly easy to get to Gyeongnidan-gil Road -- just take the Subway to Noksapyeong Station (Line 6) and use Exit 2. Walk straight for about 3 minutes until you see an underpass. Use this underpass to get to the other side of the road and you're there.

FYI -- it is located in the Itaewon-dong area, Yongsan-gu (Seoul).


These certainly got me jumping on my feet to start shooting.
I know there are more of such attractions in Seoul; and perhaps other places too. I'm looking forward to find out and to add them to my list :)

Five Ways to Save Money on Your Next Vacation -

So, our economy may not be at the strongest point now. And that makes traveling quite expensive.
But, if you play your cards right -- there are lots of incredible ways to make the most out of your travels.

Cheap doesn't always have to be bad, right? :)

So here I've put down my top five tricks on turning my vacation into an affordable activity.


Be flexible with flights -

You see, a little tweak in your travel itinerary will save you a ton. I usually travel midweek instead of weekends; and if you're talking about long haul -- flights with transits always win hands down. Not only its cheaper than direct (80% of the times) but I find it more comfortable dividing my long journeys into two legs.

I don't mind being on transits for a few hours -- at least I get to stretch my legs and get some fresh air. And also, some airlines (mainly the Gulf carriers) offer free stopovers at their Hub -- so that is also a nice way to have 2-in-1 vacation ;)

Flying open jaw - that's flying into one city and out from another - is also a good option. Not necessarily the cheapest but will save you the needless costs of going back to your starting point if you're visiting a few countries at once.


Travel off season -

Summer is the best time to visit Europe; likewise spending winter in the Caribbean. But these will cost a bomb simply because everybody else think so and would like to experience the same thing at the same time.

So, opt for shoulder season instead (just before or after the peak season).

If you ask me why? Then I'd say why not --
Prices are low (even cheaper airfares). The weather is nice. Restaurants / Shops are open and happy to see customers. And, generally fewer tourist around so you mingle mostly with the locals.

Sure, it won't be the warmest or sunniest but the prices are much, much better.


Skip the chain hotel -

I rarely stay at big, expensive brand hotel (think Hilton, Westin, etc.) because personally, I think they have very little in value. A B&B offers double the warmth and half the price of what these hotels charge you. And I like the cultural intimacy prospect and the personality of it -

I have tried house-sitting during one of my earlier travels and this is also another unconventional option that could be explored.
You know, you get free lodging in exchange for taking care of someone's home while they're away -- help feed their cat, water their plant and whatever else.


Take free tours -

Sure, you can pay for standard tours along but in most major cities around the world -- you can also find free walking tours being offered. What is so special about them? Well these walking tours show you the city's highlight and also, teach you about the culture.
Another option is by using the hospitality site, Couchsurfing and PlayPlanet (the Korean version of CS) to connect with locals who would be happy to show you around.

You will also, at the same time, meet cool, smart and genuinely nice people.


Think outside the box -

Why are some of the more popular destinations pricier than the other? Well, of course they are. Because everyone wants to go there. Looking for a beautiful and less molested island but Maldives is too expensive? Try Raja Ampat instead.

Of course you can't substitute Paris for another city because, hey, it's Paris after all.
But there are plenty of European cities that are equally as gorgeous; full of their own charm and excitement. For example, Budapest or Dubrovnik -
Sure, they're a little less well known but definitely cheaper and special in they're own way.

And also. Take advantage of countries with lower exchange rates or slightly down economy (e.g. Greece).


Well -- a little more leg work will pay off. I'm sure you can also add on to the list :)
What are you waiting for? Go, travel!

Smartphone Photography 101: Five Tricks For Taking Better Travel Photos -

Are you planning a vacation and wondering what camera to take?
While the image quality might be better on a DSLR, but carrying around bulky camera equipment in foreign countries isn't quite a good idea.

So, perhaps you should reconsider.

The purpose of travel photography is for us to document our memories and highly likely we will share them with family and friends (*cough* Instagram *cough*). So, smartphones win hands-down in terms of portability and convenience.

Have a look at the five important things (at least I think so ...) to consider to make your travel photos a much better ones ;)


Know the Rule of Thirds (and when not to use it) -

Image Source: Take & Talk Pics 

This, my friends, is the golden rule of photography.
Divide the canvas into thirds (and you will eventually have nine equal grid squares). The most interesting element should ends up where the interception of lines are.

You can place your element slightly to the left or to the right -- your choice. This will create a strong composition and focuses on the object.

This rule works 90% of the time. But feel free to also experiment.


Rethink the Cliche Shots -

Keep your eyes open for unique photo opportunities -- and don't be afraid to take a shot.
The best thing about smartphone photography: if you don't like the shots, you can delete them later. But if you don't take it in the first place, you'll have no idea how it'll turn out. Right?

Experiment with the angles and viewpoints. The last thing you need is shooting something the same way as everybody else.

Image Source: Mark Garbowski Photography

Shooting from low angle is one way to show the scene from a different perspective. Something one will unable to see at a standing height.

So leave the cliche shots to tourists and try something new!

And oh. Don't forget to look down, too ;)


Make Connection. Get Closer to People. Local People -

The sceneries might be beautiful.
But sometimes we tend to forget that the locals have their own stories to tell too. If you're shooting from a distance, no problem. But if you'd like to take a close-up shot of them -- please, please, please -- be polite and ask for permission first.

Image Source: Photographing the World

I find it interesting to photograph people in their own environment. It helps contextualise the portrait and viewers will be able to see what's there.


Don't Use the Flash -

Never, ever use the flash. Unless it is absolutely necessary.
It ruins the quality and will wash out your photographs. But instead, play with the dark. Use the contrast to create an amazing shot.

Hard to believe, maybe. But try it.


Let Your Photos Tell Stories -

A good photo tells a story. And that's what photography is all about -- letting viewers in to the experience while not being there physically themselves.

Sometimes the action of the subject tells a story by itself.

Image Source: Elle's Studio

The trick is: compose your subject well and take a shot at the right time. You need to often do this quickly so use the burst mode (simply hold the shutter down to take series of shots -- on an iPhone) and pick the best shot later.


There you have it -- some really simple tricks to help you during your next travel.
Be open to experimenting, too.

Enjoy!

When Best Friends Become Strangers -

Do you have that one person you used to be so close with, but so suddenly became nothing more than just, well, a stranger?

I do.

I have friends whom at one point I can't picture not being close to. I love them -- we bonded and connected so well. Then one day I woke up only to realise, they were no longer a huge part of my life.

I don't know what exactly happened. And how, in a short span of time, we drifted apart.

I don't know if I should feel bad. Or to feel like it is my fault.

Maybe I didn't reach out enough?  

Or maybe I've done something wrong? 

There's no clear cut answer to these questions. Maybe simply because our paths have changed along the way. Maybe because we didn't connect like we used to.

But I think it is okay. I'd like to believe so.
There is nothing wrong with having amazing people in life one day and simply going separate ways shortly after. Friends respect each other -- may it be decisions made, or even the journeys taken.

Friends don't judge each other just because the decisions are different.

Sometimes I hear people talk about how those who drifted as one who doesn't "value" the friendship. But is it really about "value"? Is it about making this friendship works simply because it was there at one point? Or is it possible that, just like lovers, we were in each others lives for a particular reason and once that reason is fulfilled, we move on?


People change. No big deal.
Change is what human do as part of being, well, human. It's a basic component of our basic and collective survival. But we fear this change. Maybe because it reminds us of our mortality.

We are always changing even when we hate to admit it.
We are all, maybe, the centre of our own universes. Sometimes this might overlaps with other people's and that small bit of intersection leave some parts of it changed.

The collision can: wreck us, change us, shift us. Sometimes we merge into one. Most other times, we resist.

What I'm saying is: if you're in that situation I once was, y'know, feeling guilty for drifting apart from very close friends -- don't. It happens, and it's normal.

I have made different decisions. I have taken different paths. Some of these decisions and paths taken are different than what my close friends would've decided upon. So it's harder for them to swallow.

Some might think otherwise but to me, this doesn't mean we can't remain friends. Simply because we change. Simply because we decided on different paths. It simply means -- it happens and it's okay!

I learned that holding on to that regret didn't do me any good.

I was blaming myself for something I had to respect -- their decision to leave because the path I've chosen is simply, well, different. Maybe they didn't fully understand why I did what I did -- but that's okay.

So, I move on.


We all start as strangers. The hope is to grow with our friends. But more often, we grow apart. And become strangers again.

So accept and respect how things have become. Remember -- you can't control everything and the past is the past. There's only so much you can do.

Given a chance -- I'm sure we all want these people to be back in our lives but at one point, we simply have no idea how to make it happen. Either we are too scared to be the one who reach out first or we just don't know what to say.


But maybe one day our paths might cross. And if that happens, do we try again?

Traveling in South East Asia? Easy peasy -

I love living in South East Asia. Period.

The cultures, the sights, the weather (well, not really for some but hey, I'm a tropical girl) --
In addition to that, it's cheap. And relatively easy to navigate.

No matter what your budget, style and interests are -- I assure you, there's always something for everyone in this part of the world.

I have some personal favourites too. By personal favourites, I meant countries I keep returning to -- without fail. So I thought I'd share with you beautiful people the countries in my Top 3 so you have a rough idea when planning your South East Asia trip.

Cambodia -
I love this country; and it is also one of my favourite place in SEA.
It's cheap. Well, INSANELY cheap to be exact. Not only that, it is so easy to get around in Cambodia -- Siem Reap, especially. There are a lot of things to do depending on your likes / dislikes.

Most people know Cambodia for the famous Angkor Wat. Sure you can go all Tomb Raider there and the other temples; but there are many, many other things to do besides exploring just the temples.

One can explore the other, darker side of Cambodia (the Killing Fields near Phnom Penh) -- it is horrifying, for sure, but at the same time fascinating. Located about 14kms outside Phnom Penh, this Killing Fields has now become a tourist attraction and one of the "must-visit" for those traveling in Cambodia.
For you beach-goers, don't 'fret. The beaches in Cambodia are such hidden gems. Slightly less popular than the neighbouring Thailand -- but still will take your breath away.

Otters Beach, Sihanoukville

Long Set Beach, Koh Rong

Serendipity Beach, Sihanoukville

See. Gorgeous, right? Something I'd definitely enjoy waking up to each morning, for sure.

Visa Requirement: Visa is required and can be obtained upon arrival (both airports and land borders) for USD$30 (single entry). This visa is valid for one month and you're required to present a passport (valid for at least 6-months from date of expiry) and a recent passport-size photo. You can also now apply for this visa online with additional USD$7 processing fee. Nationals from the following countries (Indonesia, Laos, Malaysia, Philippines, Singapore, Thailand and Vietnam) do not require a visa and may stay for 21 or 30 days respectively.


Indonesia -
Well, I do visit Indonesia often. Bali (though a little over-rated) is one of my favourite island. Not the usual tourists dig like Kuta, for example. I'm more of Ubud kinda girl. Very peaceful area with lots of greens, various good restaurants and yoga studios.

Yes -- the Eat, Pray, Love filming location. If that rings a bell to you.

Surfing, I can say, is one of the main attraction in Indonesia. If all you've ever wanted is to learn how to ride the waves or already love the waves, this is definitely a place for you. Though you can also explore something more low key like Gili Islands -- besides Ubud (yes, yes, I love Ubud far too much to not mention it again and again), that's for sure.

Rice-terrace in Ubud

Another view I don't mind waking up to every morning ;)

Visa Requirement: Visa exemption for over 90 countries -- you can check your country here.


Thailand -
Famous for its nickname -- Land of the Thousand Smiles; Thailand is one of the most popular countries to travel to in South East Asia. Bangkok, being a huge international hub, is one of the easiest to fly into from, literally, everywhere.

There's plenty to do in this country. Just name it.
Scuba diving in Koh Tao. Island hopping in Koh Phi Phi. Braving the tourists crowd at Khao San Rd in Bangkok. Chilling out in serene city like Chiangmai. And food -- yes, various awesome food to try.

Just between us: some of the best restaurants I've tried are located in Bangkok. You can check out Eatigo -- great app that gives you 50% off selected restaurants ;)

Koh Phi Phi

Bangkok

Visa Requirement: Nationals of most countries are eligible for 30-days visa exemption. Check your eligibility here. If you happen to exceed the 30-days period, expect to pay a fine of THB500 /day at your point of departure (been there, done that!).


So, what do you think? Did I trigger your interest to visit South East Asia yet? :)

How to Effortlessly Survive Long-Haul Flights

I think it is very safe to say that nobody enjoys long-haul flights. Nobody.

Some flights passed by in a blink of an eye (how I wish this happens all the time but ... *wishful thinking*) and some, most of them, drag on forever. Long flights definitely are petrifying especially if you rarely do it; but after the 50th times, well, it's not as bad anymore.

I've also had my fair share of flying long-haul, even the rough route. The worst I've endured (so far) was a 13-hours flight from Tampa to Dusseldorf before hopping on 7-hours flight from Dusseldorf to Abu Dhabi to catch my last leg of 8-hours Abu Dhabi to Kuala Lumpur flight.
Yes -- I should've flown over the Pacific but somehow *stupidly* did it the other way round.

So the advices below are for people like me -- y'know those who occasionally *not so cleverly* booked long journeys on economy class. If you're a frequent business class traveler, well, you might want to skip this entry with your glass of champagne ;)

Wear something comfortable -
The key word is "wear something comfortable but presentable. I'm opposed to looking like a total dummkopf when traveling. Because, my darlings, first impression matters and you never know who you will meet or end up sitting next to on board, right?

Credits to Road Warriorette

I usually opt for Option 2 -- a comfortable, loose long pants paired with non tight-fitting long sleeved tee (awesome to go to sleep in even without blanket) and flats. Still look very much presentable but uber comfortable.

Window or Aisle? -
A good seat is uppermost important especially on the long Europe or transatlantic journey(s). On these flights, trust me, you'd want to have aisle seat -- because there's no way one can avoid a bathroom break on a 13-hours flight.
If you're booked on a plane with 3-3-3 or 2-4-2 configurations; you should opt for (either one of) the aisle seat in the middle section.

Example of a 3-3-3 config. fleet

These seats in the middle have their own advantages, though maybe not in an obvious way. It gives you easy access to the, ahem, lavatories while giving the people seated in between two options to get to the aisles.

Alternatively, check out SeatGuru -- very informative website indeed! :)

Eat. Drink. Sleep. Repeat. -
Though some might suggest skipping the meal service altogether to avoid jet lags, this still depends on the individuals. I do skip the dinner service on board whenever taking the red-eyes.
But generally -- hydrate, hydrate, hydrate. Flying long-hauls are exhausting and staying hydrated is a huge part of braving these journeys. You should be chugging water before, during and after your flight.

But, sorry to be a bummer.
Though alcohol and coffee are comfort drinks for some, try to avoid them while on board. Both disrupt your ability to sleep and booze, especially, dehydrates you.

Worse still, they do no good to your skin.

Try to get your "beauty" sleep -
Getting to actually sleep on board is hard to most people. And definitely a torture staring at the plane's current route in silence while others are fast asleep. Prior to the trip, I usually shorten my sleep by a few hours and, well, last-minute packing does wonders sometimes too.

The key is to tire yourself so you'll be able to catch a wink while on the plane.

In Malaysia, we aren't able to get sleeping pills off-the-counter without any prescriptions. Sometimes even clinics don't carry sleeping pills -- or maybe they just don't want to sell them.

So again, it depends on where in the world are you :)

Moving and Stretching -
Sitting in a cramped seat for hours is a pain. Really. It is important that you keep your blood flowing while at your seat.

Some airlines are quite good at demonstrating their in-flight exercise. But 'fret not -- you can find these simple exercises easily online.

Whenever you have to be seated, you can do light exercise like occasionally twisting your torso and looking behind each shoulders. You can also roll your head back and forth to soothe a stiff neck. And when the seat belt sign is off, I usually take this opportunity to stretch my legs by either taking a bathroom break or just by hanging at the galley for a few minutes.

Oh. You can always also walk down the aisle once or twice.

Credits to The Globe and Mail

Well the thing about these tips -- it might work on one person but might not work on another. Over time, and with loads of practice; you'll get use to flying long-haul.

Enjoy your flight!

Five Ways to Fly Business Class for Less -

So what do you think is the airline industry's idea of a cruel, cruel joke?

Oh yes - you got it right. They make passengers walk through first / business class cabin on their way to their smaller seats in the economy cabin. Well, maybe not all the time these days (because at some airports, they do provide different aerobridge entrances) but, say, 80% of the time.

Thai Airways Royal Silk Class
I have to admit (whenever this happens to me -- which is, obviously, rather often) for a brief moment, I caught myself imagining what it's like to have a wider seat with loads of legroom (esp. for long-haul travels) and personalise service from the cabin crews before passing through the curtain to my own seat to tough the next hours in coach.

But 'fret not -- the front cabins aren't out of reach, after all. Many of 'em travellers sitting "in-front" are either (a) business travellers or (b) frequent flyers or even (c) very savvy flyers.

Besides the usual ways of buying (last-minute) upgrades or using your miles, you beautiful people could also give any of the following tips a try ;)

Flexibility is the Key -
Many travel consolidators have flexible date search tools which are helpful in grabbing the lowest available fares (could be on any classes). My personal favourites are Skyscanner and Priceline. Occasionally I do also go on Orbitz or Travelocity -- but not as often as the first two mentioned. Always, always remember to select the "Lowest Fare" option.

Be Willing to get Bumped -
If you can be flexible about getting to your destination, you can volunteer to be bumped from the flight (only if the flight if overbooked, of course -- this happens a lot during busy period). Being bumped means you have a good leverage to ask for a better deal. They might even say yes to putting you on the first cabin ;)

Book in Advance -
Just like on other classes, the front cabin also work on a yield management basis (the earlier you book, the better deal you will get). Last minute bookings usually only offer the higher booking classes -- targeted at business travellers.

The front cabin(s) tickets are changeable (this is FOC) -- the only difference between one booking class to the other is the validity.

Avoid Peak Business Travel Days -
Do not, I repeat, do not book (or at least try to) your journey on Mondays or Fridays. The possibility of getting lower fares are quite slim -- though you may stand a chance. I usually book mine in the middle of the week or sometimes, the "red-eye" on Saturdays. At least the comfortable seat turn flat-bed can be put to good use ;)

Experiment with your Departure and Arrival Airports -
Instead of flying to the main airport, you can also play around with arriving at destination's secondary airport. Or vice versa by playing with your departure point. Some airlines do fly to secondary airports as these arrival points offer less landing / parking fee (a plus for the airlines, for sure). For example, instead of flying to London Heathrow -- there are also options to fly into London Gatwick, etc. Or instead of departing from Bangkok Suvarnabhumi, one can opt to fly out of Bangkok Don Mueang.


These require a bit more legwork on the ground before you fly, but once you're relaxing on that comfortable seat with champagne in hand -- it will be well worth it ;)
And please feel free to share your thoughts too.

But oh. Champagne is serve only if the journey is more than an hour. So no champagne on 50-minutes flight from Kuala Lumpur to Singapore, unfortunately (talking from experience here).

Hello, January!

Nothing is predestined.
The obstacles of your past can become the gateways that lead to new beginnings.

- Ralph Blum