The SG Girl Experience

Something for the Midweek Workers

2010-09-07T18:49:00.000-07:00

*****

Back to the topic about getting couple coded -
my bf has his own reasons for resisting the idea

It sounds perfect, for both of us.
But it all boils down to the age old question:

Is it healthy for a woman to fly forever?

Anyway, a happy Long Weekend for my 'grounded' readers.
Enjoy the time with your loved ones...

As for me, I will be somewhere, far... far... away.

You are Highly Valued

2010-08-30T04:55:00.000-07:00

I listened to Nic Vujicic once during a stopover in Sydney

At that point, I thought I would never forget his incredible message

When I hugged him, I promised myself that I will never
let the trials of life weigh me down

and never let myself start scrambling to find security
in something, anything
.
.
.
.
.
and then last night I had to go and have a huge argument
with my boyfriend about getting couple coded

I regret my actions and thoughts today
and am once again challenged to consider:

What is my motivation for flying?

If he never wants to get coded, will I still fly?

I know I shouldn't depend on his presence to get me through a flight
but the loneliness I feel cripples me sometimes
The only consolation is the deep fatigue I feel after each flight
that allows me to drift off into a world of comforting dreams

*****

Too many of my girlfriends are getting through their jobs
with the hope that their future husbands will step in
and relieve them of the chore.

I don't want to be one of them,
but surely, I can understand them...

How do you motivate yourselves in work?

A Note that Made me Smile Today

2010-08-26T21:00:00.000-07:00

sg-gal,

i've just discovered ur blog today
n i noe i'm gonna be a regular visitor.
ur earlier posts abt pretending to speak singlish in order to fit in,
trying to avoid mentioning ur degree...
it's like reading my own thots!

n feeling "pressured" instead of "pressurIZED"?

i almost cried tears of joy!

*****

You must be a crew... safe flights my dear
and sanity onboard always!

Feel free to share personal anecdotes!

Keeping it Real

2010-08-05T18:10:00.000-07:00

5 Aug 10, 13:54

winterkate: I would like to ask if you know what is the longest 'deferment' time span XXX is willing to wait for candidates. (:

Dear Winterkate

Unfortunately I won't be able to give you a fixed time.. but I can share with you the experiences of some of my friends =)

In general, the company has waited about six months for some of my friends while they graduate from school. This will happen more probably if the company has gone to your school for recruitment. I have also heard of a girl who needed about three months before her braces came off and they have granted her that.

Ultimately, if they really want you, they will wait, but sometimes, if the time is too long, they will hold your application and ask you to come back when you're ready. That might be the better option than getting rejected and having that on your record. =)

All the best dear!

BT - Backstabbing Twoface

2010-07-21T03:32:00.000-07:00

I was alerted to this post by a dear friend (also crew)...

Sigh, Uncle BT, why use my words to generate more comments for your blog?

----------------------------------------------------------------------

The following excerpt is taken from Singapore Airlines (SIA) Crew Stories
[http://www.bohtong.org/2010/07/i-have-worked-35-years-and-yet.html]

Who cares whether the flights were full because I did not have to serve the passengers.
So you see I have many reasons to, in fact love SIA.
The stewardess whom I talked about (below post) is always sick of her job. Being sick as she described it was equal to hating her job.
As for me I loved my job.
I loved SIA,
I loved it when it's a full load because I was assured of at least 6 month bonus,
I loved it when I see my crew sweat it out on the flights so I could justify my presence on the flights,
I loved to hate my managers,
I loved to kick a few of my svps in their asses.....hahaha....
So you see it's good to love,love,love!!!

------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Because BT simply cut and compress a couple of articles I wrote articulating my feelings over three years of flying, I (indirectly, from his comments page) received a lot of negative criticism, including an anonymous person calling me Bitch.

Anonymous said...: Ungrateful!!! U have a choice nobody force u to stick to SIA.Are sick of the good salary and the lifestyle at the end of the month?Get a life,BITCH!!!!And let others who like to get in cabin crew.; 8:45 PM

I really do not appreciate this negative publicity, and more so, using material I posted as part of my personal experience, to enhance his blog entries without the necessary acknowledgement. If you wish to do this, please have the decency to post my blog address too, so that your readers will have a complete and accurate picture of what I am writing about and make a right assessment. True, there may be people who will still think I am ungrateful after reading everything that I have written, that is their right. But what BT did is low-ball!

My entries are based purely on personal encounters and experiences, and gathering the feedback I receive from my readers, I try to paint as realistic a picture as possible for cabin crew wannabes. I write from the heart, not post edited and glamourized stories from other people's blogs. In fact, when I spoke to some of my flying friends, they tell me how upset they are with BT's blog because his objective seems to be simple - to tarnish the reputation of the SG girl.

Come on, we are all here to make a living. Besides flying, we also have to keep our heads above water from the many judgements poured onto us simply because of the association The Company has with everything SEX. How many of us have had to endure failed relationships because our partners simply cannot deal with the absense, as well as the excruciating ordeal of wondering what happens up there in the air? How many of us have had to deal with disapproving parents who look down on our choice to wear a sexy kebaya and serve people on board? How many of us have had to put up with constant sexual harrassment in our very small workspace because people simply have this impression that all of us are cheap sluts eager and willing to let men "cup a feel" - all this fuelled by YOU, BT.

You want to earn money by selling stories of "sex, lies and alcohol" but at who's expense?

Don't forget we are also real people, with real lives, with real reputations, and real dignities.

We can be your daughters, your nieces, your girlfriends, your mothers, your sisters.
PLEASE SHOW US SOME RESPECT WITH YOUR WORDS.

________________________________________________________

My rant can be summarized by the words of a kind soul who stood up for me!

Anonymous said...
I found the real blog that had these entries and realised that the author of this blog has completely taken her posts out of context. She blogged about her discontent in 2008 and it was just a one-off thing. Most of her posts are intellectual and her personality comes through as a very down-to-earth and kind hearted person.

I don't think it's right for Boh tong to just pluck out a few posts and make it seem as if this girl is ungrateful (btw, her "Unhappy" post was way back in 2008)

Thank you dear!

In fact, I'm going to step out of my comfort zone now and ask this of my readers - Support my blog and stop following BT's blog. It cheapens women, makes fun of The Company, and tells plain LIES about life in the air. Help me to UP my number of followers by clicking on the "Follow" in the sidebar. Let's make it more than 26 to show him and the other PERVERTS out there that Not Everyone Wants to Hear About Sex-in-the-Air. I recognise how wide BT's reach is, just by randomly chatting with crew onboard, so help me to circulate this message, especially among junior crew who more than others, need support when entering this "glamourized" industry and non crew who are misguided by what stupid people say!

BT's Current Followers:

Source

What's the Degree Up There?

2010-07-20T23:36:00.000-07:00

1 Jul 10, 14:08

french updo: what's your academic background like and whats the acad background of other crew like? 'cos your 'better/diff' edu seems to be making it difficult for you to connect with people.. and I pressume tt'd affect your chances of promotion?

Hi dearie

On average (just soley based on my experience), there are more diploma holders than degree holders onboard.

If you need a figure - perhaps amongst the senior staff (those in their late 30s/early 40s) you will find more O'level holders. Among those flying 5 years plus - almost entirely diploma holders.
Among those flying less than 5 years - a good mix of diploma and degree holders.

The Company is targeting universities as part of their recruitment (at least they did that during my time) so you will find more degree holders especially among those flying 3-5 years. However, the drop out rate of degree holders is also much higher.. sometimes they switch careers to management and become CCE - Cabin Crew Executives, most often, they quit to pursue something that "makes their degree worth it".

source

'cos your 'better/diff' edu seems to be making it difficult for you to connect with people.. and I pressume tt'd affect your chances of promotion?

I've since discovered that it is better not to mention my degree when flying. Very often, senior crew can just come up to you, point at you and go "degree holder?" They can and will judge you straightaway as someone who is spoilt, not willing to work, will quit after two years, etc. Resentment can run quite high, especially older crew who may only have an O'levels cert and hence may feel 'trapped' in this job, unable to find anything that might give them the same pay check.

Having said that, promotion is not based on "connecting with people" - at least, not with the people onboard. That only counts towards your OBA - on board assessments, which mildly affects your promotion. From what I hear onboard, promotions are largely based on how well you ace the interview and tell them what they want to hear. So, if you look at it from certain angles, perhaps degree holders may have a better chance of getting promoted?

To give you a taste of what "academic status" is like in the airlines, ONE Leading Stewardess (now a Chief) got her Masters degree and news of that spread like wildfire - ask any crew and they should be able to give you her vegetarian sounding name. Of course, I imagine she's very, extremely, supremely proud of it and probably constantly blows her own horn onboard.

The above is just my personal opinion and experience, please don't persecute me for it!

How to Handle your Hair

2010-07-20T22:53:00.002-07:00

1 Jul 10, 14:07

french updo: hey!! a few questions here (: 1stly, can you PLS tell us how to do the french twist/updo that you guys always do
_______________________________________________________

This is a video I found that best represents the way I do my french twist.
I chose it because my hair is not extremely long and my hair texture is asian (of course)
and because I employ the same technique i.e. using a rubber band then pulling it back.

I had to struggle alot before I finally managed to confidantly go onboard with a french twist.
But the results are really worth it! It is the epitome of elegance and poise, much better than the bun or bob.

Having said that, I have seen several crew who do the bun beautifully, but I think it only works if you have very long hair. Conversly, the french twist would not work with very long hair!

Don't give up and keep trying!

Hair story:

Once I was operating NRT-LAX. Thank goodness by then, I was one of the more senior stewardess. The most junior (poor thing) was this Japanese stewardess. At first sight, she looked pretty awkward - very skinny and young looking. After the first sector, on the bus to Port Washington Hotel in Narita, I overheard several senior crew commenting "popeye... popeye's wife... hahahaha..." SIGH! I realised that they were comparing her to Popeye's wife - Olive!

In her defence, she was really a sweet girl, she helped me translate some Japanese instructions on things I bought and she was always smiley and agreeable onboard..... =(

On the final sector, I had to work with her. The LSS gave her a really really hard time (but, really, her work was quite jia lat [bad]...) At first it was normal scolding, nagging.. later, it started to get personal! I can still recall exactly what the LSS said - and she did this with me in the galley, how embarassing for our poor Toto-Chan!

"... ya, and your grooming, how can you be a XXX Girl looking like that?? Your uniform.... [blah blah blah]... and YOUR HAIR!! IT LOOKS LIKE A HANDLE!!!"

"it looks like a handle!!!"

*****

The worst part? It was completely true!!

DOUBLE SIGH!

Ghostly Meow

2010-03-31T22:51:00.001-07:00

Once when I was in Beijing
I heard something that made my hair stand on ends.

It was after check-in and I was just getting ready for a nap before meeting the Galley Steward (GS) and Chief stewardess (CSS) for Massage later.

As I lay down, thinking about the flight that just ended, I suddenly heard thisLOUD scratching sound. I was alert to it because I have a pet cat at home and sometimes I hear this sound around the house, but I always know it's her. In fact, the sound was so loud that I literally sat up to listen for its source.

It was coming from underneath my bed!!!

At first I thought it must be a rat or something - it was incredibally loud, and definitely coming from within the room, but when I went down on all fours to check beneath my bed, it was empty! The sound also had stopped.

After that, I felt a very cold chill run down my spine and I suddenly felt very uneasy, even though I am not the sort of person who believes in ghosts hanging around.

I hurriedly called the GS and asked him if he wanted to meet earlier to check out DVDs from the tiny shop around the corner.

____________________________________________________

Another time, I was operating the FRA-NYC flight with an awesome set of crew.
We were having a drinking session in one of the GS' room - about six of us crew.
This story was shared by the Leading Steward...

He shared that he was doing a Jakarta night stop and had a wet dream in the middle of the night.
When he woke up with a start early in the morning, he found his comforters strewn all the way across the room, on top of the television. Worst thing, his entire torso was covered with semen, more than what a man can normally produce. He claims that he was raped by this female spirit who apparently appears to men who sleep naked in bed.

Of cos, the crew laughed it off, and I couldn't help but feel he was just trying to share his sleeping habit and ability to cum alot to the girls present, but from the way he told the story, I believe that he was telling the truth.

Reality Check

2010-03-07T20:49:00.000-08:00

Girl, you just had sex with this.

sigh, zuo nu ren zhen sing ku

Pilot

2010-03-05T08:09:00.000-08:00

Last night I spoke to a second officer.

He told me how bloody lonely he was in this job and how much he misses his fiance back in Singapore. I asked him why doesn't he get married then? He replied that he thinks it wouldn't be fair to marry her only to subject her to his constant absence.

The captain on that flight is a really good looking man.. Tall, tanned, very toned. Speaks very charismatically. In fact, the only so-cute-can-make-me-blush tech crew I have seen since I started flying. The second officer told me that this captain is married with two kids, but he has a steady mistress... sigh, and to think all the fss on this flight are swooning over him. Eager to become the next mistress?

I feel quite sorry for this S/O. He seems really sincere towards his fiance. But then, I wonder how she would feel if she knew he bought me a steak dinner and shared a bottle of wine with me. We drank until we were quite tipsy. And I started to find out just how lonely he was.

Sometimes, people convince themselves that they love someone, something... only to discover later that their own actions show otherwise...

By the way, I'm no longer a junior crew.
Painting my nails are no longer an event.
Now, I paint them burgundy, sometimes maroon.

Nobody cares because I'm so good at my work.

Today though, I am feeling so restless.

The winter outside doesn't help, and the location I am in just makes me want to forget everything that I have promised to myself and indulge in the comfort of another warm body.

Resumes

2010-03-01T02:21:00.000-08:00

April is approaching.

Last April, I was seriously contemplating quiting this damn job.
I remember I was in the midst of a messy family life, and I needed the money to continue paying rent.

This April, I don't need to pay rent anymore.

Sigh... Got called up for a dreaded HKG turn yesterday. Thank God it is over and done with.

As I was sitting in the airport foodcourt, shovelling down my food to meet the 1550h reporting time, I couldn't help but wonder what it is like to troop out of the office for lunch break with my colleagues, like normal working people.

But normal is not what I'm after..

I do have a dream, and flying will hopefully help me to reach that dream. But I'm not sure it will.

The longer I fly, the more fuzzy the future gets.

Am I to do this forever? My bf flies.. it makes sense for me to stay right?

I don't want to be the one stuck in SG while he globetrots. Yet every flight seems a stark reminder that I am wasting my time in the airline because nobody will recognise my sincerity and hard work.

Did anybody see me giving tissue paper to this old lady who would be flying away from her daughter forever, because as she told me in tears, she would be too old to make another flight, and her daughter who has a young baby would not be able to make the trip to her either.

Did anybody hear my heart shatter as I saw her frail hands dapping her wrinkled face in sorrow?

Perhaps what the company expects is for me to "report" my every action to my complex leader, but she already has her hands full with this stewardess on her first solo flight and her demenure is so unapproachable that I can forsee her rolling her eyes and calling my words self-praise.

Today I sent out five resumes.
Three of them for jobs I really want but know I won't get because I am not quaified enough.

But hey, I have big dreams.

Hope everyone is not having the "Monday blues", something unheard off in the flying world...

btw...

2010-02-20T00:42:00.000-08:00

It turns out my bf didn't go for onsen in the end.

I had a lovely Japanese stewardess friend onboard
who kindly reminded him how inappropriate his actions might be.

pffft. men.

In fact, I have been hearing from other crew about this onsen thing that has been going on for crew operating Tokyo flights.

Are we really so deprived here in Sg that we can't wait to run overseas and take our clothes off?

I don't mean to sound like a prude.

But lately, I've been hearing more and more stories about fss-es (flight stewardesses) turning up at gs-es (galley stewards) rooms in various states of undress, or differing excuses along the lines of computer problems, network issues, dvd exchange etc.

C'mon ladies, get a vibrator!!

Hello!

2010-02-17T18:37:00.000-08:00

source

Sorry I've been away!

Had a couple of long flights in a go.

Once again, I'm not in Singapore to celebrate Chinese New Year

I don't know why, but it seems like this year, a lot of non-Chinese are getting off days during CNY! But I guess ethnicity aside, everybody loves public holidays.

In happier news, I got to Loh Hei outstation with a bunch of great crew! We even said all the prosperous things as we poured in the ingredients.

The best part, my Chief Steward gave all the non-married crew Ang Paos!

Well, it was a 777-200A so there were only four 'younger' members =)

Hope everyone else had a fabulous CNY. Huat ah!

As always, this blog is intended to answer any questions you may have, so always feel free...

The Waiting Game

2010-02-06T10:58:00.000-08:00

Those of you who have followed this blog would remember a year ago, when I just started flying, I found out my bf on ground had strayed.

I stayed on for a year with him after he begged my forgiveness.

He even proposed with a sparkly diamond ring that was the envy of many crew onboard.

We would soak our diamond rings in Gin and then rub it with the Business Class disposable hand towels and show off the shine to each other.

At the end of it all, I broke things off and he asked me to return the diamond to him.

*****

Today, I am sitting in front of my computer in Sg, while my current bf is headed to a Japanese Onsen with a stewardess in Tokyo.

I can't say anything about it.
After all, crew must be open minded about such things right?

If we start to get picky and possessive, how to continue flying?
If we always start questioning our crew partner's intention, how will we every trust?

But really, how will we ever trust?

I didn't spare too many words on it, but sent him a text reminding him that his gf loves him.

I haven't received any reply since.

So I am blogging about it.

Life seems to be a funny joke sometimes.

AsiaOne Quotes SG Gal

2010-02-04T08:23:00.001-08:00

Was just kindly informed by a reader that my blog was quoted on AsiaOne, ages ago.

For those with a limited budget, they can read ;new SIA stewardess' SG Girl's accounts of all the selection rounds conducted by the airline. But even this new recruit seems somewhat disillusioned by the demanding duties of a flight attendant. In a post about a typical work day, the normally enthusiastic newcomer writes that her 'heart sinks' when she learns that the flight will be full and she envisions the rigors of work ahead of her, "but the day hasn't even begun."

Oh boy, it seems like an eternity ago that I blogged those exact words.

Now, the plane slapping incident has long been forgotten and only comes up in feeble jokes ensuing "don't scold me, slap me! slap me!"

For the full article, Click Here

I'm Back...

2010-02-04T07:19:00.000-08:00

Wow, it's been so long!

Did you know that I've been so caught up with life that I actually forgot I had this blog before and such wonderful readers?

Anyway, things have come a long way for me since my last entry, and I thought I'd pick up from where I left off.

First things first.

Why am I blogging as Sg Gal once more?

Because now, I CAN.

Stay tuned.

Love

Sg Gal

Last Entry

2008-12-02T07:16:00.001-08:00

I would like to thank everyone for their invaluable comments.

I'm sorry but I can no longer commit to this blog and I do not want to waste people's time checking in every now and then.

Thank you for all your encouragement. This is my first annonymous blog and I am very touched to see that total strangers can save a kind word for me.

If there is someone who would like to have this blog name, please contact me: toweldoll@yahoo.com.sg What you choose to blog about using this name is not my concern anymore.

I wish that those of you who have been faithful and supportive would have left your blogs in my comment box because I have invited one such reader to read my personal blog (yes, my picture is there). Unfortunately, you did not and I can no longer do this because I would still like to keep my annonimity.

Thank you, and if I ever have the honor of serving you onboard...

The hands that serve you
Serve with the strength of Christ
In all that I do, I seek to glorify him
And display his Servant kingship.

Fly safe, and may His angels be your protection.

Love

Sg Gal

Angry

2008-11-12T22:00:00.000-08:00

I know I havent been blogging for the longest time.

I just didnt know what to say anymore.. I guess in all honestly, I did not see the point of taking the time to inform the public of what goes on behind the glamourous facade anymore...

I not only have ceased blogging, I've also stayed off the internet...

Recently though, I looked through my blogroll and read some of those other stewardess' blog and I just couldn't help shaking my head in disdain.

I don't know what the hell goes through these people's mind when they can bring themselves to write dirt like that... are they just content with masquerading as a prostitute online while in real life they are actually just regular souls like you and I? Or are they really wasting their lives and disrespecting their bodies while working for this company? Deluding themselves that this company will continue to stand by them and support them through next year?

Already, we are hearing horror stories of long standbys without getting called up for flights, and longer than normal off days - of course all this just translates to LESS PAY.

I need to get my act together. Times will be changing soon and I need to have something by the time I quit next year.

So far I've only crafted out one miserable resume.

Couple of flights back, I had the most horrid crew who made me so demoralized and feel like quitting immediately... at the end of the flight though, I received a compliment letter from this solo gentleman flying home.

I told him quite frankly that his letter made my sad day.

It has been a rather... challenging flight.. sir.

He asked me to tell him what happened.. but I declined, saying that I can only do so outside of my uniform. Oh how I wish I could have just let him and everyone else on that flight know what horror lies beneath the smiley faces of those who will bid you farewell at Door 1 or 2. How fake and cruel they can really be.

I wish that next year, all of them will lose their jobs and only the nice crew with true leadership abilities and objectivity will be asked to stay.

The company is an ultra modern organization running on primitive methods ran by primates.

Someone offer me a job please?

Thankful...

2008-09-04T23:30:00.000-07:00

Recent events in the home have left me in a strange place I've never experienced before..

At the risk of sounding like a poor-little-rich-girl, I find my place in the house suddenly not so secure anymore and the need to wean myself off previous dependence on my parents very real.

Now, I need the money.

Today, I went to work... appreciative.

Is it really Sex In-the Air up there?

2008-08-21T19:49:00.000-07:00

For me, it's a NO.

To be honest, I hardly get hit on by crew. ([erhaps this might answer one commentor's question about whether I am too chio to publish my picture? =)

Usually they just ask a couple of questions, give a few compliments, see that I am not biting their bait, and move on. So in this regard, I definitely think that the company has been gravely misunderstood by the public. Especially people like my dad (can refer to my initial posts.. haha).

Having said that though, I have heard some raunchy stories from other crew (first hand, or otherwise). So here they are:

"There was once when this steward walked into the first class galley and saw the leading stewardess talking with her male supervisor. The only percularity was that she was leaning forward with her elbows on her knees, and her legs were spread wide apart. And let's just say she wasn't decked in Jeans and T-shirt."

"One of my colleagues has been regularly harrassed by her male supervisor. They met on a flight and went out together and he somehow talked his way into her room where she ended up being pinned on the bed and kissed. When I heard that, I was horrified and told her she had the right to file a complaint. Unfortunately, she didn't. Since then, this man has been calling her (yes, she gave him her no.) and trying to obtain her roster so that he can change flight to fly with her."

He is married with 2 kids. She is 19.

"Another girl I heard, had a chief show up at her room door in the middle of the night in London and pound on her door incessantly, demanding his love for her and insisting she entertain him that night. They had not met prior to that flight. When she, terrified and alone, simply kept quiet and waited till the storm passed, he finally left. But of course, she was assigned to work in business class on the way back to Singapore ie. with the chief. The man bombarded her throughout the flight and even went into the toilet she was servicing and closed the door, then proceeded to hug her and squeeze her breasts."

I don't think anything was done about this issue as I still see this chief walking around in uniform.

"This story I heard recently from a colleague. This stewardess with a particularly ample bosom was working in the galley with a steward. Whilst conversing, she noticed that the steward's eyes kept shifting between her face and her breasts. Either frustrated or turned on (nobody will every know), she said "You want to see is it?? You want to see I'll show you!" and proceeded to unzip her uniform to reveal her cleavage to the jaw-hanging and extremely lucky steward."

Ok, enough stories for today.

All I can say is this. More often than not, we are responsible for our own safety and well-being. I don't think it is necessarily safe to engage in harmless flirting that could potentially have this person in you room or hijacking you around the plane.

Sometimes though, a person can honestly do nothing to deserve bad things happening to them. (I havent even started on the same sex molestation that goes on in the air)

Most of the time however, we just brush these things off as one time encounters and believe we have not really lost anything we cannot easily replace.

My question is then this: why do we gasp in admiration and nod thoughtfully when we hear of people like the Japanese stewardess who sued this in-flight supervisor who touched her breasts on board?

That happened just recently and the supervisor has sinced been sacked.

My iPhone and Life

2008-08-15T03:25:00.000-07:00

I've had my iPhone for about a year now, and all this while, I never knew how to install any applications. The only one I had was the application which allows me to forward SMSes.

I was starting to get seriously bored with my iPhone and was contemplating selling it, since the only ones available these days are the 3G ones which you have to get with a contract plan. I thought I'd better sell it asap while it still had value. I always told people, I just use my iPhone for the phone and the ipod functions. Nobody told me that it could be so much more!

Today, I was twinkering around with it when I finally discovered what the fuss was about the iPhone. You can get it to do almost ANYTHING!

Here are some of the fun stuff you can turn your iPhone into:

A Flashlight

An Emergency Alarm that goes off when the phone is dropping (get this, not on impact, but when the phone is in-the-process-of dropping!) or when activated in case of...

A Bright Blinker in case you are buried under rubble - very likely these days.

A Vibrator - =) They call it the iBrator

A Piano you can actually play

A Guitar

A Drum set

A Tap-Tap Revolution - let your fingers do the dancing!

There's also a Karaoke function which automatically provides the lyrics to all your stored songs

A sketch book that erases when you shake the phone

It even farts, giggles, snores, moos whenever you command, just by flipping the phone over!

I now have tiny ants crawling all over my screen at random which get killed and fade away when I squish them, and have about 5 novels stored in my phone for my reading pleasure.

I'm so happy with my iPhone and just wanted to share this with everybody. It really is a great buy! And the price is even reduced from when I bought it =p

****

News from work: Things are really looking up these days. It seems what they say is true, once your probation is over and you have P-plate crew under you, nobody really bothers to look out for your every move/mistake and very kindly "teach you". Having said that, I do wince whenever a P-plate under me gets a shelling while I go off scot free for a minor mistake.. I make it a personal point not to "advise" and "preach". I think people are smart enough to learn on their own, and need to be respected to do that.

And if anyone asks me, I ALWAYS tell the truth. Bottom line is, I know my work. If what I'm doing is right, I won't listen to anybody's bullshit and follow the "norm" created by these seniors. And if I'm slacking around in some areas to cut corners, I won't ask the juniors to follow suit.

I'm smiling as I type this. It seems we all can grow, no matter what the situation.

I am also amazing myself the way I am braving the storm that has been simmering at home... But still, I can't wait to have a place I can call my own...

Love

SG Girl

QnA 3

2008-07-11T02:26:00.000-07:00

Anonymous said...

Enjoy your honest blog about the life of a FA underneath all the perceived glamour.
How do you get promoted to become a leading stewardess?
What are the pilots like? E.g. are they friendly, arrogant, etc. Do they hang out with the cabin crew?

July 9, 2008 3:31 PM

Usually after five years of flying, one can consider applying to become a leading. However, the average time it takes is 8-10 years. The two leading stewardess I flew with on my last flights had just got promoted after 10 years of flying. There are also many (normal) stewardesses who have flown for 10 years and still not promoted. It is well recognized within cabin crew that promotion is a long and difficult process. Also, please take note that if one flies for 10 years and still doesn't get promoted, her contract may be over. If you get promoted, you get another 5 years extension of your contract. If you get promoted again, another 5 years. That's how it works. That is also the answer to some people's frequent question of why there are some blue colour stewardess who look so 'mature'. I strongly recommend you compare this with the promotion prospects of other jobs.

Every flight has different kinds of pilots. For the most part, they keep to themselves. Occassionally, one might come down during lull period (when most passengers are sleeping) on a long flight to chit-chat and sometimes, this chit-chat might turn into plans for sightseeing/dinner at the country you will be landing in. Some pilots are VERY 'ngiao'.. they get very upset when you don't go up to them and introduce yourself. In my opinion, it has been very challenging to spot a very handsome pilot. =p

Anonymous said...

hey was wondering if its okay to study n fly?n how does it work

July 10, 2008 3:09 AM

It is only OK to study part-time and fly. I am currently taking a home study course (diploma) and it is quite managable. But I shudder to think if I had to attend classes.. That would be very tricky because you have no fixed schedule (like, not every saturday you will be in sg) Just for your info, the online board where you can post your flight details and get people to change their flights with yours for more off days etc, are packed with crew pleading for off days to attend class, take exams.. etc. More often than not, they get ignored. I'm guessing it is not so easy...

A Sunday at Home

2008-07-06T02:36:00.000-07:00

Hey there last commentor!

Anonymous said...
Hi, enjoy your blog, makes for really compelling reading so keep it coming! Just wondering how your superiors reconcile the tacky romantic ad image they project worldwide with the somewhat harsh reality they impose on you gals.I can understand if they kick your thieving ass out, but writing a BLOG??? It's not as if you work at Los Alamos on missile technology or are so highly placed you get $50,000 in bonuses. Or do you? In which case you'd better take the money and forever hold your peace.

July 3, 2008 4:54 AM

It's true... there is a clause stated in our contract that we cannot publish any content while in employment with XXX. These include books (thanks for your sweet suggestion another commentor), blogs.. etc.

***

Anyway, today I am feeling very happy because it is the first sunday in two months that I have in Singapore (no, I haven't got a weekend here in over three months). I hope everyone is having a wonderful time too..

I am currently caught up with the xiaxue - dawn yang squabbles. I am not shy to say I love reading tabloids and often grab a copy of People or OK when I am in Australia or UK to catch up (they are just so expensive in sg!) but I was a little ashamed of myself for reading so deeply into this blog-war.

The truth is, I knew Dawn. We attended junior college together and I was once her captain in a club we attended (she, for a very short time only). I hope this will never give away my identity, but I just wanted to share that the change this girl has gone through saddens my heart. I don't wish to post what she used to talk with me about, but she was once a girl who hoped for true love and was more.. innocent. These days, she walks past me completely oblivious to the emotional conversations we once shared. I take it that she never remembers the time I gave to her and the listening ear. I hope it is not for other reasons. Admitedly, sometimes i read her blog and ask myself how come she is now such a famous person who can afford luxury but I am still an unknown face blogging in secret and working as a "Sex Icon in the Air" (yes, I did go through a phase in my life where I craved to be a famous face in sg.. laugh all you want!! hahaha)

I have never told anyone about this because people will just say that I am making it up and blah blah blah, but I just thought I'd share it in my secret online space.. =)

I also chanced upon another crew's blog.. she has been flying for 7 years and the way she writes makes me feel like she is definately enjoying her joy and it is totally suitable for her. I shall share it here for those who want an alternative view to my negativity. I'm sure this job will suit others out there more than me! (chanweiwei.blogspot)

The truth is, i had always pictured my life to be more like:

Not the uniform of course, but I imagined more time to interact with passengers, a more relaxed and chilled out atmosphere.. I know, i know, XXX is probably the worst choice for this!!

QnA 2

2008-07-03T00:56:00.001-07:00

Anonymous said...

How do u girls look so good all the time?Do you have to keep putting on makeup?Is there a particular brand of
cosmetics that u should use?So u girls eat the same thing as the passengers?DO u ever get to at least sit down during the long flights?

June 26, 2008 6:47 PM

The truth is, you see us in the dim cabin lighting so everything looks dreamy and flawless. Under white light, you can see the pile of make up used to cover all the flaws! haha... nobody is perfect, especially not cabin crew, our skin suffers alot from the drying cabin atmosphere and the extreme weather patterns. I think some are just more blessed than others and I admire some chief stewardesses who can maintain baby soft skin even after flying for 20 over years. We get discounts on Lancome products and they really try and hard sell that brand, but I dont encourage it because Lancome is very chemical based and harsh. I use only organic products, except for the eyes and lips, which need to conform to company standards. In fact, on flights, I dont use foundation at all, just concealer and powder. I almost never touch up my eyes, cos the Lancome stuff just stays on, but I touch up powder and lipstick about 2-3 times in a long haul flight.

And yes, we eat whatever is left over from the meal service. Sometimes, we get to reserve our maincourse, but other times, nobody does it so one might feel pai seh to reserve. Sometimes, the business class will send down their left overs too, but seniority gets the prime picking... Food is aplenty for crew onboard, but you dont always get to eat when you're hungry and it's mostly unhealthy stuff loaded with preservatives. That is why they say crew tend to pile on weight after they join for a while and are comfortable with the job scope ie. there is little stress to help them lose weight.

Anonymous said...

Hi,

I love your blog. It provides a very true account of being a air stewardess (which, beyond the glamour and glitz, paints a picture of reality). I'm just wondering how much longer do you think you'll stay in this job? And do you think you'll be able to adjust well into the corporate rat race of 9-6, sitting in front of a PC and answering emails / phone calls? Also, last but not least, good luck and I hope you and your boy works things out.

June 27, 2008 1:07 AM

Hi, thanks for your question.. it is one that I have been asking myself ever since i embarked on my business degree some 4 years ago... I have semi-decided that I will not be joining a corporation after this job. You're right, I won't be able to take the 9-6/7/8 working hours that I see my bf and friends struggling through. But that was already something I had decided on before joining the airline. Im very big on alternative careers, and spend my free time finding out what other people in other countries do... let me know if you have some ideas too! A point to note though, the allure of the high pay did work for me as I was convinced I was going to save up to further my studies.. however, I am willing to accept another job for less pay. In that regard, my readers must know that $$ is not the driving force in my decisions and my blog. If you want a quick, "painless" way to earn $$, this job is great, as I am seeing my bank account grow. The disclaminer is this though, I am not a spender. I don't get tempted easily into buying branded bags. I have colleagues, who, drawing the same pay as me, have a savings account of less than $100.

Anonymous said...

How old r u this year and How many years of flying experience do u have?

June 27, 2008 1:48 AM

I was accepted into the airline before graduating and started work upon graduation in 2007.

Anonymous said...

May I know if a married girl would stand a chance to be hired?

June 28, 2008 4:32 PM

There is no black and white stating that candidates must be single, however, the truth is that there are few (i myself have not heard of any) married women who have been accepted. I know of a couple of colleagues who put their marriage on hold and then tie the knot just months after being accepted, so you can see the kind of culture that is already in place in this company. Anyway, just look at the marketing campaign to decide for yourself if a married woman is what the company desires. I don't agree at all with this concept but hey, who am I to give an opinion? I suggest you take your talent elsewhere, with other airlines babe.

Hello babe,
i am thinking of joining as cabin crew, but I only have 2 O lvl credits & pte diploma. Do u think I can try for the interview? Coz i heard it used to be a dip from local poly, but now the requirements didnt state it. Wat do u think?
Anyway, i stumble to yr blog from uncle boh! Love reading yr posts, keep it coming in! Take care :)

June 29, 2008 12:14 AM

Hi Megumi, if you wish to join, I suggest you do in now, asap, immediately. From what they are telling us, they would have recruited enough staff by August. When that happens, I reckon they will go back to their strict criteria and start being very picky about who they hire. But on that same note, please don't be discouraged if it doesn't work out for you... you have a diploma, it means you are qualified in some field you didn't mention. Don't think it is for nothing you spent that time studying for it.

Hi there, this is Jon. I enjoyed reading your journey of self-discovery (as you termed it). And it is fascinating to learn something from the places you have been to. But I my interest is caught by your last sentence regarding Allan Wu. I am actually trying to track down the filming of Amazing Race Asia when I came across with your blog. When did you see Allan Wu in the plane to Tokyo? Is it between 18 May - 8 June of this year? I would appreciate if I can have just a second of your precious time. Would you like me to drop a message to beajonlover@gmail.com.I would appreciate it, really. You can take a look at our free site at www.entermyworld.heavenforum.com. Thanks in advance.

June 29, 2008 1:17 AM

Hi Jon, I saw him on the Beijing route (sin-pek)and it was probably in April.

hi.serena here.
i want to know..do u do local routes (within southeast asia) more than international ones or another way around? coz i know this fren who are based in dubai (Qatar airways) n who are CONSTANTLY overseas.she'll come back to msia only once a few months.

and once u sign to the bond, u have to do 5 years, am i right?how long is the probation period?does anybody ever got booted out after said period?

does the salary differ among stewardesses (performance based?)?

that's all as for now.thank u.
love your blog babe. its refreshing compared to others. cheers!
xoxo

June 29, 2008 7:45 PM

Hi Serena. More often than not, we get one/two international sectors (Europe, States, Africa) per month and the rest is South East Asia. It makes sense because flights to SEA are shorter and hence you can fit in more of those in a month. For int'l flights, I can be away from sg for over a week. For SEA flights, I am in sg maybe one or two days per week.

The bond is 18 months long - that means that if you quit before that, you have to pay the company a stated sum of $$. The contract is 5 years - that means that after that, the company can give you the boot if say you get fat or really suck in customer service or take 10,000 MCs. The probation period is 6 months and it can be increased for any reason your supervisor deems appropriate (too many MCs, forgot to bring pass port, reporting for flight late.. etc.) On average, about two out of 20 new recruits can have their probation extended. It is unlikely they will kick you out before 5 years.. unless you steal from the company or maybe blog about it? =)

No. All Singaporeans wearing the blue uniform get the same pay (give or take $100) If you get promoted, you get abit more. Foreign crew get less but I never asked how much. It is never based on performance.

Ok, that's about all the questions you asked. I hope it has helped some. I may not be the most senior or most experienced crew out there, but I can offer you my eyes that still see and my heart that still feels. Some readers (crew I guess) say that I am airing my dirty laundry in public but I beg to disagree. Firstly, it is not my dirty laundry that I am airing, and secondly, they have done nothing for me to want to protect this glammed up impression they wish their friends and family have of the job. I am also working for the same company and I just talk about my own experiences, which are all true. The people whom I disgust with this blog are, more often than not I predict, the perpetrators of the injustice that I blog about, or simply folk who have shut up their thinking mind for the sake of convincing themselves that they are indeed that girl we see in the ads playing in the wheat fields of Australia or sipping tea in her uniform in Paris. And we all know that that is not the truth.

Good day!

QnA 1

2008-07-01T13:39:00.000-07:00

flyboy said...

Is it true that hanky panky business happen in toilet cubicles onboard? Have u actually seem any so far?

June 26, 2008 5:59 AM

I have never encountered that on my flights, but I've had colleagues tell me that they hear people having sex in the toilets. It is our policy to not disturb them, unless the noise gets out of hand.

Speaking of toilets, the most outrageous incident is having a passenger shit in the sink. Yes. It's true. On particular sectors, passengers have no idea how to use the toilet bowl and simply urinate on the floor. We(I, most junior) have to use newspaper to soak up the pee and wipe the toilet floor dry. Note to all: Aircraft toilets have NO DRAINAGE!!

SQPPS said...

Yes Athens is nice... the Acropolis and all... I was there on a business trip once and met a bunch of FAs on a three island cruise, sailing from Piraeus.

Believe crew will have at least 4days of R&R in Athens.... btw, which hotel u ppl stay, next time I am there I might pop by..
June 26, 2008 5:17 PM

I'm sorry, I shouldn't reveal the company hotels, but I'm sure if you ask any of the nice stewardess on flight, they will tell u =) The 6 day pattern is rare and difficult to get. I've never come across it myself. I've only done the 4/5 day pattern. i managed to see the ruins, but not the beautiful islands...

******

OMG! After faithfully answering every question, blogger didnt connect and I lost everything... I'm so -_-. I will try again another day. It is 5am already and I need to sleep... sorry about this =(

Q&A

2008-06-26T03:46:00.000-07:00

Hi everyone

Please leave your comments/questions via the comment link and I will try my best to answer them!

I can't find the question anymore but here are some questions asked:

I am a nervous flyer and want to know what flight experience would make even a flight attendant nervous onboard.

I suppose you're asking about something like plane trouble. For me, turbulence doesn't bother me at all, even the mad, roller coaster types. The plane is basically very stable once it is on cruise. But I would get nervous if there is an engine failure or some mad man on board. I get worried too if there is a medical emergency onboard.

PK: Can you tell us your favourite and least favourite city to fly to and why? Have you seen anyone famous on one of your flights?

My favourite city so far is Athens, simply because I met the nicest set of crew on that flight and we went out together.. I have lovely memories of that place because of them. My least favourite city is anywhere in Japan. Although it is beautiful and many crew love to go there, I can't help feeling very vulnerable when I don't speak the language. I like to be an independent traveller, especially when crew don't seem to want to go out so whenever I get Japanese flights, I don't look forward to it.

I have only seen Allan Wu (Amazing Race Asia host) and Fann Wong. They behaved like regular passengers.. very nice.

So much for Company Benefits

2008-06-19T22:51:00.000-07:00

One of the selling points XXX made to us during recruitment and throughout the training phase is the amount of welfare it bestows on its beloved crew. Today, I'm sitting here typing this with integrity.

I have visited the so called XXX approved doctors six times so far. Out of which, four times were at my own expense. There is supposed to be some sort of system where we get the subsidized rate of $Y (about the cost of a big mac)which will be automatically deducted from our salary and the rest of the cost goes to the company. Also, you need to see these approved doctors to get a recognized MC. However, those four times, either the clinic tells me in all ernesty that XXX is not recognized as a subsidized client, or my staff number has not been received from the clinic, so they cannot process me as a staff of XXX. I beg you to consider the inconvenience this causes many of the staff. It is not like seeing the doctor is very fast and easy these days. Most of the time, one can expect to queue for over two hours!

I have called and written emails and frankly, no one has been able to regtify the problem. My salary comes in erectic bunches, I cant even keep track of the medical claims I've made, if they have come into my bank account or not.

The point is, when you are but a tiny fry in a hugeass company, it is so easy to slip through the cracks and go unnoticed. I believe the people I have spoken to also have no power to do anything. But this is really a big organizational problem. Help is difficult to get, information is almost non existent. Yet they preech to be so concern with staff benefits.

I believe some of my readers are more experienced than me in this area. Can someone please recommend me GOOD doctor that is APPROVED in central or east area? So far all the company approved docs don't seem to be very experienced and I feel like i've been wasting my time and money and not reaping any of the benefits.

Also, look out for a Q&A session post coming up shortly! Prepare your questions and I will try my best to answer. Remember to use XXX ok =)

After Thoughts

2008-06-16T21:10:00.000-07:00

You are all very kind with your words.. When I read them, I am amazed that people bother to say nice things, that people take the time to empathize with another person's plight.

If I read my own blog, I would just slap myself. What the hell am I complaining about all the time?? A job is a job right?

But that is the exact point I want to make to anyone who comes across this blog... Being an XXX Flight Stewardess IS JUST A JOB.. It is not that dream, that fantasy, that glamourous, respectable, challenging CAREER that was painted to me in my childhood from all their marketing skills. Having studied about XXX when I was doing my degree, I recognize that it is a brilliant company with excellent logistics and marketing. As a Singaporean, I am proud of the company. But as a crew,I can only hang my head in shame. I cannot believe the kind of humiliation I have been subjected to since joining... Let me share a FEW true stories...

I was doing a flight back from Milan and there was this group of Singaporeans (a large family). I gave the girl some toys (it is a must to give all children the toys). When I passed her again, that brat was standing on her chair and shouting at me: "I DON'T WANT THIS TOY!!! I WANT THE OTHER ONEEEEEEE!!!!!" I was quite flabbergasted at her audacity, and looked at her dad.. Her father told me to ignore her and proceeded to tell her to shut up and sit down (good dad). Much later in that 15 hr flight, the girl and her mother trotted to the galley where my leader and I were and told my leader "I wanted the jigsaw puzzle but this jie jie didnt give me!!!" Instead of being professional, my leader responded "OHH! This jie jie never study hard lahhh, she got no brains!! Of cos you should get a jigsaw puzzle! You are too old for this toy! Don't worry, I will scold this jie jie for you ok!!!!"

WTF?!

Another time, this other leader said to me... "Ehhh, your this hairstyle, your mother ask you to cut one isit?? It looks like you took a mushroom and put on your head!"

I just stared at her blankly for 2 seconds then rushed off to attend to my passenger.

Mind you, these things aren't said in jest. There is obvious malice and sarcasm that comes with it. These people aren't my friens where I can just laugh things off or know that they are joking AND JOKE BACK. I don't even know how to respond to them and how I respond to them is crucial in determining how bearable the rest of the flight is for me. And do you know what the seniors teach us to say?? Here goes...

"Thank you very much for your comments, I will work to improve.." SMILE SWEETLY.

Human Rights? Checked-in
Balls? Checked-in
Dignity? Checked-in

Sometimes I come out of a flight loving myself less because I did not stand up for myself. And that is what I hate most of this job.. It takes away who I am. I am compromising on my standard of what is professional leadership, and common courtesy.

And kindness.

And that is why, I am so amazed by the words you have bothered to leave me. Please, don't join the airline. It will strip you of all your courage and human worth.

God bless...

-_-

2008-06-11T19:01:00.000-07:00

I am so SICK of flying!!!!!

Sick of painting my nails bloody red everyday

Sick of looking at my red nails

Sick of squeezing into the cursed uniform

Sick of thinking about what to pack for what weather

Sick of thinking about time zone difference

Sick of checking whos on my flight that I should be wary of

Sick of being scared before each flight

Sick of pretending to be a bimbo so that other crew will talk to me

Sick of speaking singlish all the time to fit in

Sick of FULL LOADS!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Taking a break from sg-gal news

2008-05-28T14:29:00.001-07:00

Today I thought I'd take a bread from writing about the airlines and blog about my Sex and the City Movie experience.

I caught the premiere today with my boyfriend, my close girl friend and her other half.

To be shamelessly honest, you will not find a bigger fan than me.

I have watched the entire series at least 4 times running. Whenever I fly to New York, I make it a point to visit one SATC film location - so far, I've been to the Magnolia Bakery, where Miranda and Carrie discuss Miranda's pregnancy, Sushi "Dirty Martini, Dirty Bastard" Samba, Central Park where Charlotte jogs, Columbus Circle etc etc. I've gone on the SATC tour ran only in New York and I've bought (finally!) the original DVD gift box set. What can I say, I LOVE the series.

And one character I really love is Samantha Jones, played by the ever fabalous Kim Catrall. Which leads me to my thoughts on the movie.

Frankly, only watch it if you are a Carrie fan. I'm not. I fast forward all the parts with her in it cos' frankly, I don't like her character and I don't think it is realistic to have someone who looks like her appear in Fashion Week or in Vogue magazine (in the movie). Basically, the entire movie revolves around her. Yes, even though, Miranda's HUSBAND Steve admitted to cheating on her due to their sexless marriage for the past 6 months, Carrie had to be the one comforted because, what's new, Big had commitment phobia. Not to mention she must be the world's most hedious bride.

Charlotte, who I couldn't stand in the series due to her self-important, I'm a princess, nature, actually won me over in the movie. She was simply brilliant and au-naturally lovable and adorable. Her life is finally going well after having one of the worst problems in the series and one feels genuinely happy for her. After being one of the worst friends of the four women in the series, she really steps up in the movie and delivers a real tear-jerking scene where she stands up for (who else?) Carrie.

And Samantha, Samantha samantha samantha. After her stunning performance in the series, I was almost angry with the pathetic on screen time she received in the movie. Firstly, she was living in LA. Samantha Jones who declared in the series that she would never leave New York would NEVER move to LA, and for a man! All she ever really does in the movie is pop out of nowhere saying "im back!" and smother the girls with kisses. And there is not ONE outrageous sex scene that she has become so famous for. In fact, Miranda scored that scene, nipples and all. Having said that, Samantha still manages to show her talent despite being seriously deprived of screen time. The funny thing is, no one seems to recognise her importance in the show. Reviews all over simply dismiss her as an overtly sexed man eater. One horried reviewer ever called her the shallowest! The nerve!! Samantha Jones battled CANCER! She finally commits to just ONE man and what drama does she get in the movie? Nothing! Ugh. It makes me so pissed off just thinking about it. All I say is I hope Kim got a big fat pay check from making this flop of a movie.

The whole 2 1/2 hrs was nothing more than a bid to make money from product placement and comsumerism. The producers were not true to the heart of the characters and give shallow displays of all of them. Things happened far too quickly (Charlotte, who has been trying since forever to have a baby finally conceives and tells Carrie and that's it. Poof and we are on to the next scene.) I feel disapointed and sorry for Kim Catrall, Cynthia Nixon and Kristen Davis. I feel like they have all just been roped in to fuel Sarah Jessica Parker's bid for fame.

If you are a true fan, download the movie for free.

If you are not a fan or are clueless about SATC the series, don't use this movie to introduce yourself to the fantastic series.

QnA

2008-05-26T00:10:00.000-07:00

To answer some of your questions:

How much do I earn -

It really depends on what flights you get rostered. Most of the time, (in my case), we get one long flight per month. E.g HKG-SFO (Singapore to Hong Kong to San Francisco to Hong Kong to Singapore = 8 days) or LHR (Singapore to London to Singapore = 5 days) Each flight has a different allowance/salary attached to it, so the longer your flights, the higher your salary. The office tries to see to it that at the end of each month, everyone's flight salaries add up to about the same amount but of course this is not always possible. So if I get a really high paying flight - say, Moscow-Houston this month, I can expect a higher pay than the last month, when the only long flight I had was a miserable Paris.

You can expect to earn at least $3000 per month.

How much time do we get in a country -

Again, this depends on the flight you are doing. In general:

Australia: You get MAXIMUM one whole day there (but RARELY!!!) Mostly, just the afternoon/morning and then you have to sleep to get yourself physically ready to conquer the flight back to singapore. E.g. If you fly to Brisbane, you would hardly get a chance to visit Gold Coast

India: Same as Australia

China: Same as Australia

Europe: Most of the time, you get one whole day there. Sometimes, you arrive in the morning and get the rest of the day and you leave the next day night.

USA: Same as Europe

Only exceptions are Dubai (which is so boring you won't even need more than one day), where you can get two whole days, Abu Dhabi, maybe the new Moscow-Houston flight...

Basically, it is possible to travel and sight-see, but don't count on leaving the city or doing any day trips out. What I like to do is get some research done before I leave Singapore and then head out on my own. You may not believe this, but 3/4 of the crew never leave the hotel room. I guess after flying that long they are probably sick of the place, but more often, they seriously don't dare to travel around on their own cos they are afraid of getting lost. My point is, don't be lazy! If you do the proper research and familiarise yourself with the transport system, it shouldnt be a problem. Just don't be an idiot and get yourself robbed or raped.

A Typical Day at Work, Pt 2

2008-05-02T02:05:00.000-07:00

The cab drives into the Arrival/Pick up of Changi International Airport and within minutes, you arrive at the Cabin Crew Control Centre.

Only authorized personnel may enter and you are relieved that you didn't forget your staff pass. Once inside, you proceed to the computers where you retrieve the flight information you need (if you haven't already done this at home): STD, STA, flight time, gate, aircraft reg. no., meals to be served onboard, captain's name, first officer's name, whether you need to uplift stuff for the next set of crew on that flight, the security requirement for bangaloh, the prohibited items for crew as well as passengers into the country and into singapore, luggage allowance, duty free allowance, blah blah blah.

AND THE ALL IMPORTANT: PASSENGER LOAD.

Your heart sinks - the flight will be full. you can already see it: all the front rows will be packed with mothers and infants in need of "warm milk, warm milk warm milk!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!" plus water request, whiskey water to be precise!

You look at your watch, it is ten minutes to the start of the pre-flight briefing. You hastily make your way to the briefing room.

You enter and there are already 2 crew there. One greets you happily, sincerely and you already like her. The other one barely touches your hand when you offer it to her. "what was her name again??!" you ask yourself; she had said it in hardly a whisper. "candice? candy? mandy?!?!" You want to clarify, but all you can see are the thick row of false eyelashes immaculately pasted on her eye lid. She is wearing a completely different shade of eyeshadow from that which is allowed; "is that pink???" you wonder to yourself.

Before you know it, candice, candy or mandy becomes the least of your worries as the room starts to flood in with other crew on your flight. You start to see colours - green, blue, dark blue, grey and shudder... red. The mass of names roll over your ears and you can only hope that the superviser (grey) will take attendance (ala primary school) so you have a second chance to get their names before the flight starts.

Nobody speaks.

Suddenly, you feel like the girl sitting at the back of the room in your secondary school when the teacher staring down at you. There are those the teacher likes - they appear much more confident. There are those who have retained for so many years that they can't be bothered anymore with school - you silently remind yourself not to step on their toes, cos they don't look like they would be very forgiving. There are those who are so smiley and happy, you wonder if they are genuine. And then theres you, hoping the day at school would just pass smoothly, that you didn't forget to do any homework and that you can go home early after class to play.

But the day hasn't even begun...

A Typical Day at Work

2008-04-07T03:52:00.001-07:00

Example:

XX502 Bangalore Turnaround
Scheduled Time of Departure from Singapore (STD): 2000
Scheduled Time of Arrival in Bangalore (STA): 2155

Scheduled Time of Departure from Bangalore (STD): 2310
Scheduled Time of Arrival in Singapore (STA): 0605

Total Duty Time: 12h 35min

Because we are required to report for work two hours before the STD, you will arrive at Singapore Changi Airport by 1800h. As you will have to get the flight information before the pre-flight briefing and other stuff, it is "recommended" that you arrive half-hour before the reporting time. So you have to reach by 1730h.

Because it will be an overnight flight where you will work nonstop into the next morning (Singapore Time), be sure you sleep at least four to six hours before the flight. You are in bed by 1300h. Because you got out of bed from the previous night of sleep at 0800h, (you tried your best! Usually you would just sleep till 1000h) you are tossing and turning in bed, forcing yourself to rest before the long and notoriously tiring flight.

In the end you get about one hour of rested sleep. You wake up at 1530h. After showering, you rush to get ready - you now have only half and hour to twist you hair into an immaculate bun, apply foundation, powder, line your eyes, put mascara, lipstick, blusher, eyeshadow and draw your brows. You then proceed to put on your uniform. In your haste, while removing your tee-shirt, you snag your bun and a lock of hair sticks out. You stare nervously at the clock, you HAVE to leave your house by 1630h latest! It is 1625h. You are frustrated and contemplate cutting off all your hair. You say a swear word and proceed to fumble through your drawer for an extra pin. You just stick it in you hair and hope you still look neat. You realise then in horror that you had not remembered to pack the night before!

You silently thank God that you did not have to spend the night in a bangolore hotel and grab your cabin bag.

You rush out of your house and flagged the first cab you see. *UCK!!!!! It sped past you, blissfully unaware of the growing panic that is growing inside your belly. After an excruciating ten minutes, a cab finally stops and the smiling uncle asks "Terminal 3 ah xiao jie?"

To be continued...

Breaking the Silence...

2008-03-31T10:46:00.000-07:00

A random look in this deserted blog and I find that people are still coming here. Why do you come here? What are you hoping to read?

Do you hope to see that I have started two-timing with someone on flight?

Do you want to read that I met some hot ang moh man onboard and he is buying me diamonds and pearls?

Let me tell you the truth my friends... working in the airline seems to slowly kill me.

I have been flying to about 6 months now. My "p" plate (probation) period is finally over. But what have I achieved?

I found out that my boyfriend whom I have been with for two years has been secretly seeing someone else ever since I started flying...

They are not intimate with each other, but they share their thoughts and dreams with one another. He tells her that she understands him how no one else can. He says that she can read his thoughts before he even says them.

I took on this job despite my father's disapproval, but only because I knew I had my boyfriend's love and support. Now, our relationship is in a huge mess and crisis.. every flight I go for is a torture. I am currently going to be away from home for 1 week plus, I don't know what he is really up to. I can't spend time with him. I am all alone here.

People say your crew become your family once you start flying. If you have no other family and can deal with having one-two days family relationship and then saying goodbye and never seeing each other again, then yes, crew can be your family. I thought I had my family, my boyfriend - I am not the kind of girl who can switch off and flirt with other men. Having the comfort of a male in my hotel room cannot cause me to forget about the relationship and to try and forgive him and work things out.

Why don't I just forget about him and screw it, you might be thinking..

Deep in my heart, I know my boyfriend only did it because he was very lonely. He only moved to singapore 1 year ago and has no one other than me. When I go for long flights, he is all alone at home, staring at the computer... and when a girl says hi over cyberspace, who would not say hi back? And the rest, they say, is history.

I didn't want to blog at first, because I valued my job and my position with this company. But honestly, I don't think they value me. I have plenty of things to say to wide-eyed girls/guys who dream of joining this company, if you care to listen.

My heart is breaking now slowly and I can only dream of having a 9-5pm job where I know I can come home to my boyfriend everyday.

Watch this space.

happy bday singapore

2007-08-09T07:23:00.000-07:00

Hey there..

taking this op to blog since its the public holidays... hope everyone is having a good rest!

Erm, honestly I don't quite understand the tags some of u guys left, but in any case, i guess its a good warning for me not to blog anything more about my work related stuff like destinations and dates cos' well the company doesnt allow it and when i just mention something it gets scrutinized by some of u and analyzed.

of cos, that must be my fault too cos u guys are obviously so damn bored with this blog that u have to entertain yourselves. my sincere apologies!! =*

anyway, i've passed all my exams and to any hopefuls out there - the exams are NOT easy at all.

I feel quite cheated by some seniors who said that studying is a waste of time because if i didnt study as hard as i did, i would never have passed. especially not with an 80% pass requirement.

Other than that, things have been smooth for me. We are in the midst of planning our graduation. and honestly, the class is starting to show its cracks and some claws are starting to show. i dont want to comment any more on that because im not involved in that, but just a note - it is almost always the most insecure people who try and bring others down. If any of u dear readers have suffered from malicious gossip, i hope that u will find strength in this truth. it is the bored, the redundant, the invisible and the cheap who rely on their gap to try and stir up support for themselves by turning the crowd against another.

alright then, im off. why dont some of u share ur blogs here too? Id love to visit them =)

cheers y'all! tomorrow its friday and then the WEEKENDDDDDDDDDDDDDDDDDDDDDDD!!

SNY

2007-07-14T06:40:00.000-07:00

Hello everyone!

I just got information for my SNY! For everybody's information, SNY refers to Supernumerary Flight, or "training flight". Basically, it is part of our training program where we will most observe, but will also be assess about our service and knowledge.

I will be going to Melbourne and NARITA!! I'm really thankful that I got these flights and not some other "horror" destinations i've heard of from others... Also, both flights are overnight, even better cos' most of the passengers will (hopefully) be asleep!

This is really wonderful, there MUST be someone looking after me from above =)

Have a wonderful weekend, hope everyone will be well rested.

Apologies...

2007-07-12T05:42:00.000-07:00

My dear readers,

I am so sorry for being in hiatus for such a long time... To be honest, I didn't know whether to continue blogging or not.

But now, I'm back, for now.

I've had about 4-5 weeks of training already and frankly, everyday when I come home, I am so tired that I can't seem to do anything else, much less blog.

I've had to report for training everyday at 8.45am with the full airline make up and hair (bun, with plenty of gel) and when I come home, I spend another 1/2 hr taking everything off and deep cleansing my face.

On the weekends, I take the opportunity to sleep in till late, and when I wake up, I have to read up my notes to prepare for the coming exam, take off my red nail polish and reapply two fresh coats, and hopefully squeeze in a facial. I've already developed 3-5 pimples while training and I usually don't get zits!

We've also been strictly briefed on the rules and regulations of being part of the company, and one of the rules is that we are not allowed to blog... Uncle BT, is this really enforced?? I've heard of 2 crew who have received emails asking them to remove all posts regarding the airline... the most recent case is this crew who posted nasty things about her passengers in various countries. But I don't see the point in blogging such things... this blog is not to slam the airline or the people.. it is also not to gossip about other people or tell the world who is sleeping with whom.

It is really meant to reveal some of my thoughts and feelings to you, especially people who just see cabin crew as "trolley dolly"s. (like my daddy). Speaking of whom, he is still quite mad at me for signing the contract..... And he recently flew SQ to PEK. I'm sure he will have much to comment. FYI - PEK is Beijing. That is just one of the many many things that I will have to commit to memory: all the 3 letter country codes and the names of the airports which we fly to, ALL the equipment on board an aircraft, ALL the dry stores (another name for THINGS) on board, and how to mix ALL the various types of Alcoholic cocktails.

Although it is really daunting, I am looking forward to the day when I can become a "full fledge" bar tender!! Quite fun to know what goes into a.. say.. Screwdriver, Sex on the Beach... etc.

On the whole, me being a super junior, the company seems to be really, really nice. All my instructors are wonderfully honest and caring.. sometimes even motherly. Of course, there are the occasional irritants, but I guess they will exist anywhere..

I'm really having no regrets so far!

Love
SG

*ock up

2007-06-02T22:26:00.000-07:00

Because of some miss comm with the start date, I still HAVEN'T started training yet.

Yes, yes, I know my dear readers you are all getting restless for me to start so that I can blog my experiences. I AM TOO!!!

Turns out I will only be starting in slightly over 3 weeks. -_-

Bummer...

So what shall I do now to pass the time? I cannot wait to start earning moolah...

In grimmer news, my friend's gf, who has been a stewardess for just under 6 months (so, still under probation) has been calling me and pouring out her misery to me. She said that she really regrets signing the bond and keeps asking me to reconsider. But to me honest, I think she is just starting to really miss her bf, because they only just got together, after she had been flying for a couple of months. She used to be so enthusiastic about flying and was so excited when she knew I had been getting through the various interview stages, but now, she's like sian.

Which got me thinking, what is it about romantic relationships that make us "less" that what we normally could be if we were single? Is there just something about having a partner that makes one feel that they no longer have to seek to engage themselves in socializing or coming out of their comfort zone and do things that are new or different? It seems like people who once had big dreams and the drive to realize them put these on the shelf the moment they become serious about the person they are dating. And I am talking about girls.

Shouldn't my partner support me in the dreams I had before I even knew him, and not be instrumental in changing those dreams?

I really wish that people would be true to themselves. I am sure that we all have that special someone waiting somewhere for us and this will happen whether or not we pursue or dreams.

Back to Blogging

2007-05-28T20:22:00.000-07:00

Hi everyone! I am finally back from my holiday.. Was supposed to end one week earlier, but we were having so much fun we decided to extend the trip. Quick travel tip: Don't book round trip tickets - there are SO MANY cheap flights back to SG around the region.

Anyway, back to SG gal news, I had a big day... why?

I signed the bond with the company!!! I'm now officially in the company. I am supposed to start my training in a couple of weeks, but because mine was delayed entry, I have to wait till they give me the exact date.

I learnt something when I went down to the training centre. When I was walking through the guard posts and to the building, I was feeling so totally nervous and asking myself if I was doing the right thing or not. Everybody seemed totally unfriendly and fierce. I felt like the guards were going to tell me off for doing something wrong. In the canteen, all the stewardess in training seemed so bitchy and hostile - I was really feeling small and lonely and wondering if this is how I will feel once I start.

After signing the bond however, the lady in charge was so nice and welcoming to me and even excited about having me join them that I felt so happy with my decision. Strangely enough, when I was leaving the building, I noticed how the stewardesses there were all actually smiling at one another and joking around casually. The guards I passed excitedly asked me if I've signed the bond and were all saying "bye" enthusiastically and saying see me again soon.

Isn't it terrible how the mind can make us see the exact same thing so differently just because of our own emotions and insecurities?

It's all perspective. And I am determined to make the best of my training period and enjoy it, because I know that when it is over, I will surely miss it sorely.

SG gal on Leave

2007-05-02T04:50:00.000-07:00

Hello dear readers

I will be away from Singapore for the next 2 weeks or so. Am taking the opportunity to get away from Dad and get my mind away from the stress at home.

I'll be backpacking with some close girl friends around South East Asia. It was such a last minute thing, we'll be leaving tomorrow!

Thank you for constantly checking in and being interested in my simple blog. I hope to be able to make it more informative for prospective Singapore girls once I start training.

See you in a bit!

Love

whatever

2007-04-30T20:45:00.000-07:00

My dad has stopped talking to me. Everyday he is scolding my mom and asking her many questions which she cannot answer, about the job. I really don't understand what his problem is. He seems to be stuck in past generations when all flight stewardesses were seen as sluts who slept around. I am not surprised that he is opposing my decision, but frankly, I've had enough of it.

If he refuses to open his mind to this new world and its new concepts, then I cannot fight against his warped preconceptions about my career. I can't live my life proving him wrong. One day, i hope he can see that sometimes, the better thing a parent can do is to support their kids and trust them to make good decisions.

Hello Miss Singapore Girl

2007-04-26T21:29:00.000-07:00

Yesterday, I got the call informing me that I had cleared my medical round and will be able to start training in June. Yippee!

Today, I told my dad the news and as expected, it was like hell on earth.

He completely blew his top and shouted at me, saying I am the stupidest person on earth, that I only listen to my stupid friends. He said I might as well become a waitress in a restaurant, and that I had absolutely no dignity at all. No dignity.

But I had already prepared myself for such a reaction. I even predicted some of his exact words!

Even though it was quite horrible, with him stomping off in the end, I feel quite victorious that I had conquered my fears and told him directly. And had not let any tears fall down in front of him... This is the first real thing I have done for this job, and I am proud of myself.

We don't have to fear anyone, or let that fear prevent us from reaching our dreams.

I never requested for a degree... Yesterday, I also received my grades for the major final projects. As expected, I had all As... But I think i'd better not let daddy know...

Update

2007-04-22T21:55:00.000-07:00

Local Flight Stewardesses/ Stewards
(Singapore [Map])

Requirements:

Singapore or Malaysian citizenship

Females who are at least 1.58m; males who are at least 1.65m in height

At least 2 GCE ‘A’-level credits and 2 ‘O’-level credits including General Paper in the GCE ‘A’-level examination; or a Diploma from a local Polytechnic.
(Those with at least 5 GCE ‘O’-level credits, including English, and relevant working experience may also apply).

For Malaysian qualifications, a minimum grade of B4 in English at SPM level is required for the above.

Completed, are exempted from, or are not liable for National Service. Those in the process of completing NS may also apply.

Preference will be given to candidates who are able to speak foreign languages or are experienced in customer service.

_____________________________________________________________________________________

Hi ladies, I hope this will help.

I'm sure all of you have read this many times, but I can't answer your questions about education requirements for recruitment. But my policy is that there is no harm trying!

As long as they like your face, and you can carry yourself well, you stand a good chance of getting in alright?

And sorry for not blogging for ages, there hasnt been any news regarding my application so I thought I'd better not bore you with other things..

I can take questions about the interview process. Please leave your questions in the comments box instead, that makes it easier for me to reply!

Love =)

Some Background...

2007-04-15T00:27:00.000-07:00

My Daddy wants me to become a CEO.

I wanted to study literature in Sec Sch, but he insisted on me taking triple science (because it had "more future").

I wanted to study Arts in Junior College, but he said I better go into Science (because that's where all the "smart" kids study).

I wanted to go to Arts & Social Science, but he said I better study something "more marketable".

Yes. That's my daddy. But I love him so.

It's just that he doesn't know me as well as he thinks he does. Admittedly, it's not entirely his fault because the gap between kids and parents inevitably exists. I really don't dare to imagine what he will say when he knows about my plans. When I told him that my friend, also a graduate, decided to become a stewardess, he was full of negative remarks, saying it is a waste of talent and brains, and that it has no future.

It is not easy, going out and doing what you want to do. But i really want to do this. More and more I see that it is something I can be good at and stay interested in. And surprisingly, I've been receiving nothing but support from everybody who's heard the news. Most of them say they can really see me doing this, and this lady from church even told me that she thinks this can be my calling, which was very encouraging for me, given that a lot of people from her generation see the life of a stewardess as one that is wrought with temptation for lust and luxury.

I guess Ive been doing what he wants me to do for so long, that there is also a tiny part of me that is afraid to go off the well worn path. But it is my life, i keep telling myself, my life. The time has to come when I shake off the cuffs that have been placed on me and spread my wings, no matter how upset he may be and how scared I may be.

I've never mentioned this before, but I actually have another interview waiting for me. It is for a management position at a very respectable organization. My daddy advised me to apply for this company long before SIA came to my mind. He is, of course, very happy that they called me for the interview. But I know it is not what I want. When I told my Prof about my choices, he replied "who wants an office job anyway?" Exactly!

Why why why must there always be so much secrecy between parents and children?

If only we can be more trusting and less judgmental, so that people will feel more safe coming out and showing who they really are.

(p.s. please don't judge me for not telling my dad all this while... It is really not easy as I know he will be heartbroken. And I want to be really sure that I get in before I ruffle any feathers.)

Worried

2007-04-13T05:06:00.000-07:00

It has been more than a week since my medical round but I still haven't received the call to confirm the start of my training.
Whyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyy?

*worried.

This other girl who got through the same rounds as me already received the call.
Whyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyy?

Of course, it could be due to the fact that she put down that she could start training immediately, while I wrote only available in May/June, after I graduate.

Is this the reason? Can anyone ease my fears?

*sob.

My Interview Questions

2007-04-04T06:47:00.000-07:00

For ob =)

Here are some questions they asked me and the other girls:

1) Tell us a bit about yourself, and your family (are they supportive of your decision?).

2) So what have you heard about this job?

3) What makes you a good stewardess?

4) What are your future goals?

5) How has your performance in school been? Why did you choose this line?

6) Tell us about your customer service experience.

7) What do you think of our main competitor airlines?

8) What do you think of the SG girl icon?

9) Can you name the subsidiaries of the company?

My interview lasted about 7-8 minutes. But this doesn't seem to mean anything. One girl was in there for almost 20 minutes, and she didn't get through. Another girl was in there for only 2 minutes, and she too, didn't get through.

In my humble opinion, if the interviewers don't ask you very difficult questions, or make comments about your appearance, then you should be FINE! From the small sample size, those who got asked killer questions usually got kicked out. (it's almost like they are trying to find a reason not to hire them!)

And bear in mind that the interviewers have the transcripts of all your previous interviews, so please don't lie or forget what you said before hor... Apparently they also know before hand if there is something wrong with your skin (scar, or blemishes) if that was spotted during the skin test (kebaya round), even if you conceal it well during the management round.

Overall, this proved to be the "meanest" round (meaning the highest percentage cuts), so please prepare yourself well before going. If you get kicked out this round, you have to wait 6 months before you apply again (not so, if you get cut in the previous rounds).

My advise is to really take care of your appearance, greet them with a BIG smile, pretend that they are already your customers on the flight and talk to them absolutely politely and cheerfully.

So who's going for this round soon?

Management Round

2007-04-03T19:01:00.000-07:00

I got through the management round!!!!!

I am thrilled... but it was so tough! Out of the 12 girls who were there for the same time slot, only three got selected. And bear in mind that these are the girls who have already gotten through the group interview, the kebaya fitting, the one-to-one interview, and the water confidence test.

It would be like a slap in the face to just be told "sorry, you are not successful. Please try again next time." minutes after coming out from the interview room... some girls, understandably, couldn't take the blow and went to the toilet to cry. Others were not too happy. One girl even went to the administrator and demanded an explanation for her failure... the administrator agreed to check with the interviewers, but came back saying "they can't reveal anything".

I even heard some horror stories from the girls sitting with me. Apparently, there was this girl who went in with a very haughty attitude. The interviewer started slamming her immediately. He asked her how long it would take for her to "lose.. let's say.. 5kg"? And then he asked her if she had been sleeping well because her "eye bags were showing very badly".. and then he advised her to get a better haircut as the present one "did not suit her round face at all". You don't believe me? It's all true...

For me, my interviewers were very nice and friendly. In fact, I found them very motherly and fatherly.. they spoke to me nicely, and laughed at all the jokes I attempted to make.. and they advised me about the job too.. no trick questions, no personal comments, nothing. How lucky I am! If anybody wants more info on the interview process, just drop me a comment and Ill answer your questions ya?

After that, I had to go for my medical check up and x ray. That is the one that I am most worried about.. because i told the doctor that I had nose surgery before (not plastic lah!!) last year and she got very anxious and started asking me so many details... But I kept telling her that the doctor had already done check up for me many times and everything is OK now... totally back to normal... I really hope that she listened to what I said and not fail my medical now!!! Oh and another thing ladies - try not to remove your shoes at the doctors, because she also looks out for flat feet. So if you have, make sure you come in thigh high boots or something that are very difficult to remove so she won't ask to look at your feet. Flat feet girls are immediately out! Apparently this is something like the procedure they have in the army, because flat footed people cannot stand for long periods of time; their feet will get tired easily..

They also check for pregnancy and breast lumps, so be prepared to be asked some tough questions!

Now, I will have to wait for one-two weeks before I know if i am officially through... everybody please cross your fingers for me!

Thanks for your attention!

Why I've been MIA-ing

2007-04-01T09:03:00.000-07:00

Becoming an SG girl has taken a back seat for the time being. The influx of report due dates has cruelly reminded me of the fact that i am STILL a student.

Yes, dear readers, I've been so busy, that I haven't had time to blog, let alone think about my dreams... How sad!! If any of you are mugging like I am, please give yourself an hour break now! Go for a drink or turn on the tv lor..

But of cos, my heart still beats excitedly at my pending interview... yes it's been taking forever to come, but soon it will be here!

Tomorrow, I will start to compile all my certs nicely and make the proper photocopies. Then, I will paint my nails and organize what I will wear... I am really excited and nervous about it!

I've also been practicing what I will say for possible questions. Here are some which I've identified as possible interview questions:

1) Tell us about yourself

2) Why do you want to join the company?

3) Where do you see yourself in the next five years?

4) What do you think of the recent controversy of replacing the SG girl icon?

5) What would you do if a passenger requests for fish when all you have left is chicken?

Hmmm... Any other possible questions I should work on?

I really cannot wait for school to be over and for my life to start happening!!!!!!! Please, please, please let me get through the final round... if not, then this blog will be closed down for sure.. because then what's the point???

Nur, the disappointed girl

2007-03-26T20:50:00.000-07:00

As I was queuing up for my turn to walk in my super tight uniform, this girls standing in front of me turned to me and exclaimed that she was so excited and cannot wait to see what would happen.

She was a pretty malay girl with a cute cropped haircut that really suited her face. I thought she would have no problems getting through this round.. her skin was perfect too.

When she was called upon to walk, I realised that her entire back was crooked. I think it's called Scoliosis. It was very obvious when she put on the fitted kebaya top. It did not show in her walk, but one could definitely see in at a glance.

After you walk, you would be asked to hold out a tray and turn your back to the tester with your arms outstretched. The tester's face fell when she saw the girl's back, and proceeded to make some markings on her sheet. The Malay girl was asked to leave immediately. She did not even get to go to the next stand, where they look at your skin.

After I had finished my turn, I went behind the screens to change out of my uniform. She was there, squatting at a corner and sobbing uncontrollably. She had no idea why she was told to leave on the spot. I sighed inwardly... You mean she has no idea about her back?

I wanted to tell her, but I didn't know if it was my place to do so...

The next round...

2007-03-22T07:47:00.000-07:00

So, as I was saying...

After I got through the first 2 interview rounds, I waited patiently for the date of the

uniform round

I had heard rumors from many people before that once you got through the first two rounds, the rest would be very easy and you would more or less get in.

Because of this, I did not bother to collect much information about the uniform fitting and just thought that they would put you in a room full of uniforms hanging in a row, and you can just take one and see if it fits your body and pass liao.

So on the day of the testing, I just went like normal, no make-up and with simple clothes. Luckily for me, I ran into my friend and his girlfriend. I casually mentioned that I will be going for the third round, since she herself was a flight stewardess. To my amazement, she told me that many people actually get kicked out that round, because they will see your back alignment and check your skin under spotlight!

I had two huge bulging pimples on my cheeks that day!!!!!!!!!!!

Mildly distressed, I checked my watch... If I rushed, I can make it back home to dress up and at least apply some concealer!

When I got to the hotel where the test was held, I thought I had landed in Venus. It was swarmed with girls, girls, girls. All very dressed up in corporate wear, with their hair either in a tight bun, or sliced in a stylish bob.

Suddenly, I was not so confident... I would have just died on the spot if I had simply turned up in my denim mini and top.

Suddenly I realized the number of girls who actually wanted this job, and were so determined to get it.....

My two successful rounds

2007-03-19T00:44:00.000-07:00

not quite the company, but tricky nonetheless!

Since I was a little girl, I've often imagined myself wearing that tight, sexy uniform and throttling around the Airport, pulling my compact luggage behind me.

So, when my school announced that the airline would be coming to conduct a recruitment talk, I thought, "why not just give it a try?" Admittedly shy, I did not tell anybody that I would be going, except for some schoolmates who also knew of the recruitment. One of my classmates went with me. In fact, it was she who convinced me to go for it. She kept talking about the money, the MONEY, and the fact that nobody seems interested in employing people with our degrees. She really wanted the job, even though she described it as "selling her soul for a couple of years".

There were about 50 students who turned up for the recruitment talk. Much less than other institutions I'm sure, because most of them would have already received offers from the banks. But still, I was quite amused to see many familiar faces attend. Some look so buang (ugly), but they still came and tried. This made me feel slightly better.

During the interview round, I was shocked to see both groups of girls before me being sent home after the first round. Some of these girls have had modeling experience and one even appeared on FHM before. I was one of the only two girls who was asked to stay for the second one-to-one interview... Subsequently, I was the only one who received the coveted white slip of paper requesting my presence at the uniform fitting round...

I was impressed by the stringent recruitment process. Seems like looks are not the only thing they are looking for in this job. But then again, in the first round, when we were asked to introduce ourselves and tell about our interests, one girl nervously quipped that in her free time, she likes to play with her dog! Yes, I'm very sure the interviewer is so interested in your activities with your pooch -_-

My advice for anybody hoping to ace the 1st & 2nd interview would be:

1) After introducing your name, go straight into relevant customer service experience.

2) Talk about your keen interests in other cultures and countries too.

3) Be humble and polite, not proud and arrogant.

4) Keep smiling no matter how nervous you are!

5) Come properly groomed - keep your hair up, and do your nails and make up properly.

My friend did not manage to get through. After this day, I felt more convinced that this is a job for me. I realized that many other girls I have seen in class who present themselves as business women eager to climb the corporate ladder actually secretly want to become a Singapore girl.

But I got through, not them.

I went home, happy and excited that I would have the chance to try on the uniform! I started making a few calls to tell some friends...

I am not alone

2007-03-16T02:28:00.000-07:00

Today, I discovered that there are other, more senior people who have been blogging about the airline industry. I had a really good time reading their stories and experiences...

I want to say hello, but i think i won't yet. After all, I am still not officially flying.. I don't want to appear over-confident.

In fact, I am still waiting for my final interview with the management to come.

This is my first time applying...

Maiden Entry by the SG girl

2007-03-16T01:01:00.000-07:00

Thanks for stopping by my page. I hope that you will keep coming back =)

This is just an avenue for me to share my experiences as a Singapore(an) girl. So that I can benefit from the memories, and you might gain some insight for yourself.

Somethings about myself? Well, I guess I represent in some ways a typical Singaporean. Typical in the sense that everyday, I dream of getting out of the country, yet when I leave, I miss Singapore. Not everything though, I am very specific. But I will tell you more about that later lah.

But in almost every other way, I am not the typically Singaporean person you would find here. Firstly, I am what the locals would call rojak. (That is actually a fruit and vegetable dish found in Singapore, Malaysia & Indonesia). Some say it in a derogatory way, because in the past, inter cultural marriages were seen as taboo. That was when the ethnic groups were very distinct and segregated - the Chinese immigrants in Chinatown, the Malays in Arab Street, or Geylang Serai, and the Indians in Little India. Now, Singapore itself is seen as rojak - all mixed up, a migrant city where nobody really originated from. But still, the racial distinction exists. But I cannot talk about it here lah. The government has been excellent of course, in promoting racial harmony and more recently, globalization. But where am I heading to... I digress.

Anyway, Singapore today is very multi-cultural, with people from all sorts of background working here. So, it is not so bad. I enjoy being rojak actually, so people always don't really know what language I speak, or what I am like...