i know what i did last raya

Yet another holiday season flies by. I'm still wondering where all the days rode off to. I mean, one minute it's Raya eve, the next it's Monday morning. I guess the consolation is that I hardly spent the five days lazing about, which was good in a way.

Fraser's was nice, a mini adventure by itself. We drove up without any confirmed reservations, and a booth full of clothes, snacks and drinks. And like all unplanned holidays, this one didn't exactly go the way we thought it would. What had originally been planned for a one night stay became a two nighter. And it was more than pleasant, just chilling (literally as well), eating and drinking. There's nothing more tummy warming than a hot steamboat meal. Never mind it wasn't exactly the most delicious fare I've had, or the cheapest at that. It was more than sufficient in quantity, and warm - that was all that mattered. Though we had to rush down back to KL on the third day, there wasn't the usual post-holiday depression, surprisingly enough, at least on my part. Which explains the delayed reaction, i.e. moody Monday.

For a finance-friendly stay, go to Silverpark. It's decent enough, and located quite high up on the hill. However, some of the units haven't been maintained for quite a while, and one might be inclined to take issue with housekeeping before moving in. I've earmarked Shahzan Inn and Ye Olde Smokehouse for my next visit there, though. Pricier, but with a distinctively higher standard of hospitality. Besides, 3D2Ns in Fraser's is more than enough to sate the cravings for some peace and quiet. Too much, and you start bouncing off the wall.

There are several key things to bear in mind when making a trip there; here they are in no particular order.

• Fraser's is no KL; everything closes by 9PM, 10 latest. If you're really lucky, some stalls will stay open until you've had your fill of food, drink and chatter.

• The kedai runcit (grocery shop) closes at 10PM, by hook or by crook.

• Many spots claim to offer Wi-fi; only Shahzan Inn delivers what they promise.

• The term 'Hot Spot' does not refer to internet services; it merely serves to highlight the popular dishes in the eatery.

• Bugs come in all shapes, colours and freakily, sizes.

• One will be hard pressed to find the more popular brands of cigarettes up there; stock up on Marlboro Lights and Dunhill Lights.

• Bread seems to be a rarity in Fraser's. And if you do chance upon it, it'll most probably be expiring within 24 hours. Thus, bring bread.

• Oh yeah, make sure you top up the fuel tank before heading to Fraser's; there aren't any petrol stations there and a five-litre tin of petrol costs RM18.

And most importantly, DO NOT take pictures at the clock tower. You'll be nothing more than a pesky nuisance to motorists.