My dad used to say that when we live away from home, the first 3 months are the hardest. So whenever I miss home, I’ll be counting down the days and telling myself it’s going to be okay. This transition is a huge struggle for me, as I never dreamt of being a salaryman who has to work 9-5 for 5 days in a week. I honestly felt like at least half of my freedom has been seized by this routine.
So I compensate my lost by doing 8-5 shift at office (so that I have more time to do what I like), which doesn’t work out well because most of the time I would feel tired and sleepy to even write a blog post. But I must say I have been adjusting my life accordingly. Some things have changed.
And it’s my 4th month in Penang now. I would list down the things I have done during the past 110 days:
- I don’t go to the mall as much as I used to. In KL, I would visit mall 2-3 times a week. I could stay in KLCC and pavilion for hours- morning until night. But in Penang, if I calculate my mall frequency, that will be 2-3 times per month. Each time I go, I spent only 2-5 hours. Not even half day.
- I have started to cook and eat home food every day. I bring my own lunch to office! This is kind of a revolution to me since I used to hate cooking. Cooking is still not my most favourite thing to do, but I get used to it.
- My lifestyle has turned to be healthiest ever. I eat breakfast, I drink only lemon and mineral water, I sleep and wake up early, I cook my own food, I try to eat veggies. I am not sure if this is because the healthier food, but my body weight has reduced and it currently maintains the ideal number.
- I joined a tour in Balik Pulau and Francis Light Cemetery. Loving the historical background of the two landmarks. I think my keen on history and classics is what makes me stay in Penang.
- I am getting to know Penang public transport, which relieves my frustration of having to order grab/uber to go around the town.
- I took the public bus from Bayan Lepas to Georgetown.
7. I found a very good book market. Been there twice, and will likely to make it as a weekly routine.
8. I found a nice Indonesian restaurant near to Chowrasta market.
9. Also found a nice Vietnamese restaurant (halal) in Beach Street (Saigon Bowl). Though it’s a bit pricey.
10. Also found a nice Arab restaurant in Queensbay Mall (Indian Spice). Pricey.
11. My favourite place in Penang so far is Chowrasta market and its surrounding area.
12. I believe Georgetown is more fun than Bayan Lepas.
13. My favourite local food is char kuew tiauw, Hameed soup and pan mee (only the ones sold by a certain seller).
14. Tried a musang king durian. Heavenly taste.
15. Had road trips to Kedah, and taking the ferry from Butterworth to Jetty.
16. Went to the beach (living on a small island, I wonder if anyone here never been to the beach LOL).
17. I had breakfast at a food stall in Jalan Transfer and I kinda like it.
18. Found a decent gym and it’s super cheap! Planning to subscribe next month. Way to go for a toned body!
19. I shopped online and had them sent to my apartment and office. But there is another parcel sent by my friend from KL, and PosLaju asked me to collect it at their office nearby the airport. I went there only to find out they recently opened a new office at Jalan Sungai Tiram. Luckily my grab drive was super nice, he drove me to the new office (for free), waited and sent me back to my apartment! Felt so happy as I got my parcel, got to know a new place, and met a nice person.
20. If I were given a car or motorbike, I can drive around Bayan Lepas and Georgetown by myself.
I expected to have a short list and then continue with my rant about a boring Penang, but WOW. The more I list down, the more I realize that I have done A LOT. As I am smiling while writing this, I can say my dad was right. Penang has been better (for me) and the homesick feeling is gradually vanishing. I think I kinda like it.