Dali

Art is used to convey a message, usually camouflaged and hidden in multiple layers which beckon to be peeled. The ambiguity of art makes you pause, crinkle your forehead and wonder... What inspired the artist to create this piece of art? What motivated him? Why? This is the beauty of art. It makes you think.

The pictures are from my visit to Dali: Mind of a Genius - The Exhibition at the ArtScience Museum in Marina Bay Sands.

Malaysia

Whenever I wanderlust, Asian countries do not usually occupy my imagination as I find Asian countries to be too familiar and not that exotic. The lust for the different and exotic makes my mind drift to the Pyramids of Egypt, the rose-red city of Petra, the Serengeti of Africa, the Kremlin of Russia, the windmills of Amsterdam...

Needless to say, I had no wanderlust episodes of Malaysia during the days leading to my short three-day trip. So, when I set foot in Kuala Lumpur on July 8, I did not have a checklist of places to see and dishes to try. I was more excited for the company of friends more than seeing the Petronas Towers.

I did not expect Malaysia to tickle my senses. But it did.

On our first day, the long ride to Genting Highlands soothed my tired mind as we passed by the lush greenery of the countryside. It was a welcome break from the busyness of living in fast-paced Singapore and it reminded me about the awe-begetting beauty of nature.

On our second day, we found ourselves in a momentous day in Malaysia's political history as thousands of citizens staged a major protest - the biggest in recent years. The overall mood was intimidating which kept our adrenaline pumping as policemen with their weapons were scattered all over the city. To be safe, we escaped the city center by going to Batu Caves where the beautiful architecture of stalactites made me sigh. It was breath-taking.

On our third day, we visited nearby Merdeka Square, the site of the previous day's protests, now devoid of citizens clamoring for reform. The arches and pointed dome roofs of the buildings were so beautiful.

My trip to Malaysia gave me a renewed perspective on traveling and it made me eager to explore more what Asia has to offer.

The Lion King

Ten years ago in New York City, I passed by The Lion King marquee in bustling Broadway and I told myself that I will watch it someday. So when I learned that the musical is being staged at Marina Bay Sands Theater until July of this year, I knew I had to watch it.

The musical was everything I imagined it to be. When the red curtains were raised to reveal the Serengeti, I was like a little kid with startled eyes and a smile that stretched from ear to ear. When the puppet animals started to traipse on stage to the tune of The Circle of Life, I was already at the edge of my seat soaking the whole experience. I've waited for ten years to watch this musical and it's so overwhelming to finally be able to witness it before my eyes!

For me, The Lion King is like art in motion. The whole musical was such a visual treat and I truly admire the creative geniuses behind the production.