[ogman]

Just returned from a couple relaxing days in Batam. I am a big sorta mean looking ang mo (nice guy though who treats the girls right) and I traveled alone and spent way too much time wandering the alleys around the Formosa Hotel where I stayed (S$60 for nice king).

I arranged new crisp US$100s which did nothing since the exchange did not go up. Money changers are mostly hard to trust so shop around. Posted rates are often higher than reality. Across from the Formosa were 3 changers. The one in the middle offered good rates (9600 to US$1) while the other 2 mimicked all the others starting offers at 9000 and then going up to 9400 after I walked away. Best to exchange fund in the day as the more reputable close at night. Posted rates for S$ was 7900 but I never did exchange.

The Formosa is girl friendly and have a large 10-12 at any time selection on the 4th floor massage/ktv with room service. I only went there once and chose 23 as recommended by the counter lady. Excellent 2 hour massage in a private VIP room for 200k by Sae Ra. At the end, she asked if I wanted more. I asked for a BJ and she said no! Then said sex for $100 and went down to $70 Totally uninspired but $90 with a great massage and a happy ending so I was OK. Even billed the massage to my room.

Formosa is too far from the NED (Nagoya Entertainment District) so I will stay at the Harmoni Suites next time. I will explain why in the next post!