[Happykiwi]

Let me contribute from a Kiwi perspective, having been going to CP for the last 4 years. I would not call myself a regular but I've managed 2 to 3 trips each year over that time, with each trip lasting 10 to 14 days.

Organising a KTV party is a thankless task. If the bill appears on the high side, everyone thinks that the organiser is profiteering. If something goes wrong, like someone breaks some furniture or property, the organiser has to front up to management and sort out the problem. Then he has to find the "culprit". He does not personally know most of the brothers at the party and sometimes wonders if every one has paid his dues.

In my 4 years cheonging in CP, I have not made one single enemy. Although I might be upset with a few things now and then, they were all forgiven BUT not forgotten. We each learn from our experiences- both good and bad.

My philosophy is simple. If I choose to join a KTV group, be prepared to accept what everyone else pays at the end of the night. Sure, feel free to question (nicely) the bill if it seems high. Talk to other brothers and find out what they each pay to verify the sums. Pay your dues promptly and move on. Now, this is the most important bit, if you feel that you have been ripped-off, then don't join any more of the same organiser's party again! It is as simple as that!

I'm amazed how some brothers can feel so bitter if they feel that they have been "over-charged" by a couple of hundred RMBs. If that is the case I always look on the positive side, namely:
- I get to meet other like-minded brothers and make some new friends. This can lead to opportunites to join other parties. Speaking from personal experience, I have made some great friends from Singapore through such gatherings.
- I get to experience a KTV party which I would otherwise not be able to do if I am by myself.
- I learn new things through chatting with other brothers. This information gathering "exercise" is very important because it invariably contributes alot towards the enjoyment of your stay in CP. You will find out things like good eating places, where to buy your DVDs, where's the best sauna or massage place, etc.

I have personally benefitted enormously from ALL the KTV parties I've participated in and have made some good friends as well, in the process. Sure, some parties have cost more than others but then I always think only of the positives and I quickly learn who I want to associate with and those people I want to avoid. This is no different from your day to day life back in Singapore or Malaysia or wherever you call home.