Category Archives: Shop

M is for Massage and (Jo) Malone

It’s one of those treats which money cannot buy. And this is simply because the quintessentially British Jo Malone London does not charge you for their oh-so-blissfully relaxing (20 minute) hand and arm massages (yes, it’s free BUT by invitation only).

Betsy and I ambled over to the brand’s first boutique in Penang this evening, The generous invite on thick and creamy paper said to bring along a friend  (Betsy) and we were welcomed by the gracious Lillian and equally warm and familiar Carmen.  Lime infused water and a black velvet Jo Malone complimentary pouch were offered (to store our respective watches and other jewellery items) before we submitted ourselves to a relaxing and scented journey.

Lillian used a latte whisk to form a warm frothy hand wash in a fragrance of our choice (mine being grapefruit, although my first introduction to the brand by Bina years ago, has had me hooked on their signature Lime Basil & Mandarin).  She wiped it off gently with a warm towel, leaving the skin feeling softer and noticeably lighter.

Lillian’s firm yet soft hands are the perfect ad for the body products and the incredible layers of scents  combined, and so telling of the brand which is synonymous with a bespoke style of service.

We were waved off in a shower of multiple sprays, and continued to feel cocooned in the warmth of this British fragrance for the ensuing hours spent as mall rats.

Handpicked by Nergish

She travels the world over to visit new sights, revisit old ones or catch up with family and friends. Her style sense and eye for unusual fashion jewellery have always brought on compliments from others. 

Nergish’s handpicked selections of all things silver and other one-of-a-kind fashion statements can be viewed and are for sale.


Beauties from India, Thailand and China – which include semi-precious stones are set mostly in 925 silver while some are also rhodium-plated items – are yours to browse and buy. 

Contact nergish.manecksha@gmail.com for more details.

Festive retail therapy

Pam has been busy in her kitchen preparing limited stocks of Mulled Wine Extract. All you need do is to just add to a bottle of red wine and heat gently for an instant taste and smell of Christmas! 

She has also carefully shopped for and curated festive items for the picking ranging from Scandi-styled wreaths, tree ornaments and free-standing decorations including unusual lights (battery operated for maximum flexibility).


A relaxed and friendly pre-Christmas get-together takes place tomorrow (Dec 8) at Pam’s shop from 10am to 7pm where you can enjoy a glass of mulled wine, while browsing the selection of tasteful gifts, decorations and seasonal goodies including traditional fruitcake, shortbread, German stollen & cookies, Christmas flavours from Scoops Ice Cream, hand-made chocolates and more!


Grab your shopping lists, cash (and credit cards) and head for 5.4 North (24 Lorong Kinta) in George Town tomorrow.

Photos courtesy of 5.4 North

George Town

She has been a safe harbour to travellers for centuries, many of whom ended up calling her home and enjoying their days in the sun and being surrounded by water. Today she is a cosmopolitan city where travellers still fly, sail or drive in droves. While her silhouette has been altered greatly by man-made developments, she still has plenty to offer by way of experiences, panoramas and exquisite flavours. This is my George Town!img_6621