The bus pulled out of Tun Aminah Bus Terminal in Johor Bahru with no assignment waiting at the other end. I was heading to Kuala Lumpur for a few days — part work, part holiday.
At the Mid Valley Megamall, connected to the Cititel where I stayed, I came across Verona Hills, its counter busy with customers queuing for pastries.
I’d written about Future Food for The Business Times’ Leadership Playbook series — and there’s something quietly satisfying about seeing a company you once profiled thriving in front of you, rather than just in your notes.
The trip was never going to stay entirely work-free — nor did I want it to. Partway through, an assignment came in, and I was glad for the excuse to sit down and write. I finished the piece from my hotel room before checkout, pleased that it turned out better than expected.
Somehow, I churn out some of my best work when I’m on the road. Perhaps a change of scenery helps.
After leaving the hotel, my next stop was Atria Shopping Gallery in Petaling Jaya. I wandered around the mall and stopped at La Juiceria Superfoods, where I tried its pesto tofu.
I was smitten.
At KLGCC Mall, I treated myself to a wonderful body massage at Thai Odyssey before meeting the founder for my next story. It was exactly what I needed—a chance to unplug and remember that this trip was partly a holiday too.
Three malls, three different moods: Mid Valley was lively and familiar, Atria calmer and easier to explore, while KLGCC was where work and relaxation came together.
Looking back, that is probably my version of a holiday—not escaping work entirely, but leaving enough room for curiosity, good food and the occasional surprise assignment. I may bring my laptop out of habit, but it rarely stays asleep for long.
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