Just Arrived in Kuala Lumpur

The worst bit of the entire journey was trying to get to and through Heathrow airport. Dreadful traffic, overcrowded, really slow - even though it was supposed to be fast track. It really is an awful airport and travellers are treated really badly. KL airport is so much nicer.

Flew with Malaysian Airlines, who serve really nice satay on board. Did my best to get some sleep on their flatish beds. Started to read Alistair Campbell's Diaries. Have never been a big a fan of his, but it does give you a first hand view of the Blair years which is very insightful. Not sure I'll get through all 700 odd pages but will dip in and out of it.

Staying in the rather posh Marriott hotel on the 18th floor and will be here until Friday. So far has rained non-stop. Very humid. Am travelling with my colleague Mark and the first thing we did was go to the gym and try and return to normality after the 12 hour flight.

The food here is fantastic with loads of restaurants in the basement of the hotel. Played safe and went for the Thai restaurant which was great. We're right next to a very posh shopping arcade with Louis Vuitton, Omega, Mont Blanc shops, etc. Not sure how expensive everything is. Will check it out at some point - not that I'm in buying mode.

Is always a bit nerve racking before a big workshop, but am looking forward to it. Not sure how well I'll sleep tonight, but will do my best to get used to the new time zone. If all else fails I can always check out the movie channel...or else have another go at the Alastair Campbell Diaries.