Vin & Lynn, the World Travellers 量英忆齐游

Travel Memorabilia

2011-08-06T01:12:00.001+08:00

A Collection To Remember

I am sure that a lot of my friends who travel frequently abroad will pop into souvenir shop to grab memorabilia, I am not exempted for sure. In this blog, I intend to share some of my collections over these years. Perhaps, you would have some similar collection as I do. :)

Fridge Magnet

Despite many forwarded emails that claim putting magnets on fridge are not wise because it would create magnetic fields and alter the cell polarity and structure of the food inside the fridge, ahem... my fridge is really full of magnets! For me, when I look-up a magnet in souvenir shop, I look for uniqueness of the design. Most of the times, I would pick landmarks type or scenery type as long as they are unique. :)

When I traveled to Australia Zoo (North of Brisbane), suddenly I have an idea to get 4 of the same shapes but different contents for the following layout. Nice right? ;)

Diamond-shape Magnetic Road Signs from Australia Zoo

Miscellaneous Souvenirs

Ha ha ha, of course, there are also a lot of instances that I would pick small figurines, crafts, bookmarks during my travel. Well, those souvenirs will go into my display case. They are sort of nice when is under the lime-light.

Pisa Tower (Italy), Trevi Fountain (Italy), Japanese Fans, Vikings (Denmark)

Art Japanese Fan (Kyoto), Venetian Masks.

Wall Art

Wall arts are rare among my collection, but the following two are hand-picked by Lynn & myself during our recent Hanoi Trip. We wanted something to match the wall-color and also something that gives perspective, so we bought this hand-stitch drawings from one of the stop-over Art Center on the way to Halong Bay from Hanoi. It is hand-made by under-privilege ones that were handi-capped during Vietnam war.

Hand-stitch Drawings between Hanoi & Halong Bay

Oil Painting from Hanoi

Pinocchio

We bought this Pinocchio in Florence (Firenze) during our honeymoon. It is a fun souvenir because he dances when you pull the little string. However, we bought it at an expensive price. Sob Sob... it would normally cost about Euro10-12 but we paid Euro20 at Piaza Della Repubblica.

Cuckoo Clock

Triberg Germany is famous for Cuckoo Clock. It was one of a stop-over during our honeymoon. If you fancy cuckoo clock, this is the place that you should come: 1000-house-of-clock.

Jigsaw Puzzle

During my last trip to Taiwan, I fall in love with a series of jig-saw puzzles from Renoir Puzzle. If you carefully look each of the following puzzles, these puzzles talk about our love story in a way. Yes, I like the green-color theme puzzles because they give refreshing feel. (Red Face) These puzzles are still inside the box unopened. Where to get them, I mark it here at Google map.

Lynn travels alone in Europe hoping to catch her Mr Right :P

Elvin lays on grass field waiting for his Miss Right. (Trusting God to provide actually)

Elvin & Lynn finally Meet Each Other

Both Elvin & Lynn Home Sweet Home now...

The 3D Sphere Puzzles which are super cool

Owls Collection

Introducing my top-priority collection - OWL. Someone asked me why owl? Because Owl is elegant and idiom has it "Wise as an OWL". Actually, I think owl is kind of cool and unique in comparison to dogs, cats, ducks, chickens, etc. To be frank, looking for an owl is no joke during travel. Not many souvenir shops offer owl and especially really nice one! So, enjoy my collection from: Koh Samui, Penang, Ipoh, Bali, Venice, Taiwan, Truberg, Shenzhen, Melaka, Australia.

I recently came back from New Zealand and sadly I couldn't a nice owl. So, as replacement, Lynn and I got the Kiwis, a family of four Kiwis ...

Hard-rock City-Tee

I did collect quite a bit of Hard-rock City Tees in the early days of my travel. Today, I have become really selective on such collection. Partly, it is because the price is really expensive and secondly the quality of city-tee is somewhat lousy after few washes. :(

Perhaps, I should start collecting drum sticks from Hard Rock since I am picking it up nowadays....(grins)

Special Edition: Call for Earth Environmentalists

2010-08-11T22:20:00.014+08:00

Recent months have seen extreme climate change not only in Penang but in many parts of the world. As I was following many news on natural disasters that hit China, Germany, Czech and Russia, I feel saddened by many lives that have lost. Have my heart become hardened with some many such news over and over again? Often my life would move on as usual after all it does not happen to me. Well, my inner spirit convicts me of being swept away for so long by my busy life and my lukewarmness towards things that did not happen to me. I have felt impetus driven outwardly to dedicate blog on being responsible to Earth for more than 2 weeks now. So, despite my original plan to write a blog on Rome, here I am writing this special edition on this important topic with the hope to instill in you some idea that we should have and right attitude that we should be harnessing.

Often as I travelled around and spotted many picturesque moutains, alps or rivers and be constantly amazed by how beautiful God has created it. Truly, this beautiful world was entrusted to us since Year-1 and, with a grateful heart, we should be a good steward of it. Deep inside us, we know that we are not the "monkeys which are entrusted with beautiful flower"!!

As I was flicking back on my many photos taken, I can't help but to share with you some of the most scenic natural spots that I have been.

Mt Fuji @ Hakone

Koh Tao Glacier River @ Jungfraujuch

Once, I read a news article about the effects of massive magnetic polarity created when massive dam like the one in China is built. Such abnormal magnetic pole is hypothesized to invite many unprecendented and undesired big & small earthquakes in China.

For details, refer http://online.wsj.com/article/NA_WSJ_PUB:SB123391567210056475.html]

So, is it a right choice when we turn on the 2nd largest dam in Asia which happens to be just on the east side of Malaysia? Only time will tell.

The following photo was taken when a huge flood swamped the northern part of Switzerland during my recent journey. The natural force is so powerful that I could just stand in awe. Will such powerful force hits us at home ground one day? My conscience reckons that I should do more than just watching the news and feel sad for those affected or just make another donations out of compassions.

Nay, to much relief, the above photo is just a "special-angle" shot of Scaffhausen Fall in Northern Switzerland. Today, the fall is flowing rightfully along the safe route. But, could it be another potential disaster if we continue to be selfish?

Raine Fall @ Schaffhausen

Yes, I intended to use this blog to inspire more Earth Environmentalists or Activists who dear to wear the blue shirt-with a big S in the middle like below. Haha... Forgive my humour here. But, I really want to urge to have the big striking "S" in you for this beautiful place called Earth. I think, this "S" stands for Sensitive. Yes, be Sensitive for Earth.

During my travels, I have come across some practical steps that we can take in our daily chores. To name a few:

Switch off your car engine when waiting at traffic lights. Let the air-con runs on battery instead of fuel. [Practiced in Japan & Bangalore!!!]
Eat less meat because meat induces gas released from us and it smells bad tooo... ;)
Use air-con responsibly. At least only turn on for short period of time to cool down your bedroom. Big No No No to all-day 24-hour air-con.
Plan your shopping and avoid making multiple trips to cut the fuel consumption.
Take a walk to shops or consider getting a bicycle for short-distance travel.
Support your local grocery shop for simple quick-buy rather than just travel some few kilo-metres away to hypermarket for cheaper product. You burn fuel and create more CO2 actually.

There are many good ideas that we can do to be a good steward of God's creation for us. Do you have good ideas to share? Why not walk the talk and start be sensitive towards her today?

Euro 2010 Master Plan

2010-07-27T12:57:00.022+08:00

After my recent back-pack, I was often asked is it easy to back-pack in Europe especially due to the language barriers in this continent. Well, for those who are yet to do it, my number-1 advice is to get yourself a Eurorail Pass! With this pass, you tap into a very extensive rail network across many countries in Europe. Best of all, you are free from all the worry of unpredictable volconic ash from Iceland that once grounded many flights.

Next, you really need to do your homework by reading a lot of travelogue, looking-up google map, reading up more travel guide book, both english and mandarin, then chat with more people who have done it and many many more of work...... It is going to be brain-juice squeezing and eye-poppingly tiring to finally come out with a plan but later find out that it isn't perfect because you miss this spot and miss that spot which is covered by other.

Haha... really what make a travel plan tricky is connecting the dots formed by places to visit, places to dine in, hostel to stay, train to take and weather to consider....

Luckily, it is not my intention to discourage you from back-packing and also another reason is that Lynn & I just sealed the renovation deal for our sweet home this evening. So, I decided to be kind and share out our plan freely as shown below for your reference. It is not the perfect plan but close to in its own right. ;P

In addition, I want to give a gift of useful websites to help you craft out your own travel plan:

Italia Tren: http://www.trenitalia.it/cms/v/index.jsp?vgnextoid=ad1ce14114bc9110VgnVCM10000080a3e90aRCRD

Swiss Train: http://fahrplan.sbb.ch/bin/query.exe/en?

German Train: http://www.bahn.com/i/view/USA/en/index.shtml

Eurail Pass: http://www.raileurope.com/index.html?WT.mc_id=CJ.rail_travel.affiliates&collectCGIParams=1

Another good news is that most of the train ticket machines operate in multi-lingual. It is just as simple as choosing the origin, destination, date to travel. After few selection, the relevant connecting trains are listed. However, do plan ahead before you travel on the day. Machines could be jammed with long queue sometimes.

Another good news for couple who plan to go honey-moon with Eurorail Pass is the couple pass which is cheaper.

To add some spice to this blog, I decided to share my one of my favorite photos in this trip. To few of you, it might as well qualified as a Windows 7 deskstop wall-paper. hahaha....

So, how about planning your stay? Ghee... I am always a budget person when come to stay. I am a hostel person and not so a hotel person. Some websites that I often use are:

http://www.hostels.com/
http://www.hotelscombined.com/

But, of course you can refer to our choice except the one in Naples... which is a nightmare when you need to take bath (cold water in winter...:S). Our top recommendation is the Guelfa hotel in Florenze (Firenze). http://www.hotelguelfa.com/en/index.php. The handsome and helfpful owner, Mr Massimo, is simple awesome, because he upgraded us to have a private room with attached bathroom. :)

Last not forgetting, is our Malaysia's Amazing budget airline that flies direct from LCTT to Stansted Airport. Do get the entertainment system though to keep you accompanied for just RM30 per trip.

So, here you go, the 3 key tools that I used to plan our honey moon trip and another photo to remind me of how blessed I am to have my beautiful wife who changed the plan slightly to cover Almafi Coast. :)

Almafi Coast, Italy

Our Tour de Europe Sneak Preview

2010-07-20T00:15:00.008+08:00

It has been a long while since I last blogged on this site. My BIG excuse is my life has totally changed in a positive way since I met the love of my life, Lynn. :) Of course, we got married recently (2010-03-27) and headed off for "honeymoon" in Europe.

In many ways, we share the same taste, interest, passion & likings. But, in many ways too we are unique persons with different views & etc. To point one obvious one is I enjoyed cold and in fact extreme cold weather while she can hardly stand 15 degree C.

Note: Jungfraujuch (is pronounced as Yong Fao York) is the Top of Europe, one of the famous Swiss Alp.

Well, we covered a lot of places (London -> Italy -> Switzerland -> Germany -> Czech Rep) in this trip. Really, I owed a big kudos to my wife to survive through this is unconventional "honeymoon" back-pack with me in this 3-week Tour de Europe. :P

Anyway, I don't intend to write much this time, but I just want to warm up a bit after so long of not been blogging. So, stay-tuned... I will write more about our wonderful journey together.

Just another teaser... :)

Brisbane Brisbane

2008-04-26T18:27:00.033+08:00

Have been wanting to write about my wonderful time in Brisbane for long but somehow I am just carried away with my busy schedule or maybe I have lost the passion of writting. (Excuse.... :P). So, here it goes ... let me present Brisbane Brisbane - Part 1.

Getting to Brisbane from Gold Coast
If you have followed my previous blog on Gold Coast, you should have known how Queenland's transportation works. Yes, Brisbane is in zone 1 and to travel to Brisbane from Gold Coast, you need travel pass that covers zone 14 to zone 1 (Single = $10.20; Daily = $20.40; Offpeak daily = $15.30). From Surfers Paradise, I boarded Bus 745 in front of the bus station situated next to Cosmopolitan Resort in Surfers Paradise to Nerang train station. Then, took north-bound train towards Brisbane.

Accomodation
Looking for good accomodation deals in Brisbane is challenging as it is commerce centre of Queensland. Luckily, a friend recommended me a great online tool ( http://www.hotelscombined.com/ ) that has helped me in landing on a great deal. In fact this site has served me right so much so that I want to point a cool feature that I really like to see is the "progress bar that increases from 0% to 100%. What I really give thumb-up is this tool looks up all the available accomodation deals on Internet and summarizes all these deals for me!!!

A Glance of Brisbane City
Brisbane is a beautiful river-side city with much to offer. I like the cleanliness of the city and her harmonious coexistence of urban life and greenish gardens. If London has the famous Hyde Park, Brisbane's answer is Roma Street Parkland.

Roma Street Parkland (Est: 1-2hrs)
First of all, don't be deceived by the name of the park. Ha ha.. The park has nothing to do with Rome... :) However, it has everything to do with sub-tropical garden. In fact, Roma Street Parkland is the world's largest sub-tropical garden in an urban environment. The park is within 5 minutes from Roma Street Station. The picture below outlines how I strolled around the garden. Frankly speaking, I wasn't impressed by this park until I reached Point A & B. These two areas offer vast variety of sub-tropic plants with scientific names for brainy ones. Recently, I found out that I miss an important section of Roma Street Parkland - Spectacle Garden at the centre of the park (Point G). In fact, I would recommend my reader to spend more time in Spectacle Garden. Check out http://www.carlngray.com.au/panorama/rsp_spectacle/index.htm and you will know why I said so.

Roma Street Parkland

Brisbane Museum (Est 1hr, Free Entrance)
Next destination is Brisbane Museum at the west side of the Brisbane City and is accessible by using train. Just board on a train from Roma Street Station to South Brisbane Station. Of course, Brisbane Museum is not as famous as Louvre Museum of Paris or Bristish Museum of London, but it is worth a stroll to understand more about the early day and development of Australian both white people and aborgines. At the entrance of Museum is a huge dinosour. The museum lives up to Australia's reputation of having a land blessed with exquiste range of animals by exhibiting animals and creature from various species in evolution manner as proposed by Mr Darwin. Truly it is a just a theory with many flaws if you are too examine it closely. :)

What drew my attention is a small boat called "Acrohc Australis" that circumnavigate the globe starting from Brisbane to Brisbane in 1987. Check it out http://www.acrohc.com/

Strolling Along Brisbane South Bank (2hr)
If London has Thames River then Brisbane has a much cleaner and beautiful Brisbane River. Yes, a stroll along the south bank of Brisbane River is simply splendid and relaxing. Brisbane Skyline is beautiful in the summer with the reflection of the sunshine from the glassy windows of skyscrappers. Next to the museum connecting south bank to north bank is Victoria Bridge. It serves as the main bridge entering the city from the south-west. It is recommended to stroll along the south bank of Brisbane River from Victoria Bridge to Goodwill Bridge. Along this route you will be pleasantly surprised by the greenish and flowery archway near Griffith University. Yes, Brisbane South Bank is home to Griffith University city campus. One can also notices that metro boat makes multiple stops at small piers along the river just like what the motorized boat of Venice does along the Grand Canal. One day I would like to go to Venice with you....

What really impresses me is the man-made South Bank Beach. The pool is nicely maintained with life-guard support. Although I didn't swim in it, I would imagine that swimming in the pool will give the horizon that the pool extends towards the Brisbane River. Cool!!! Being hungry from a day-walk, Juan and I decided to pick up Kebab. We go for South Bank Kebab! Haha..

Victoria Bridge

Griffith University

South Bank Beach & River Bistro Area

South Bank Kebab. Yummmmm...

Be watchful for artistic boxes
Around Brisbane City, one might miss those artistic telephone line exchange boxes if one being not watchful. Yeah, how can you miss them? They are so colourful and artistic. Simply a brilliant ideas to paint up these dull communication exchange boxes. I guess Kuala Lumpur City Council could use this idea and have a competition for the best decorated boxes.

Maritime Museum
The museum is visible from Good Will Bridge that was built in commeration of 2000. Unless you are really a big fan of warcraft, you may just took a pictures of them from the Good Will Bridge.

Goodwill Bridge
Walking across Goodwill Bridge gave a feeling of crossing the Millenium Bridge of Thames River. Yup, both of these bridges were constructed to commerate Y2K. Wow, time really flies and it is already 8 years since then. Beware that the traffic of the bridge is splitted into 2 halves and make sure you are at the right lane. I mean left lane i.e. right=correct. :p Just playing with words here... :p

Chilly and Scenic View of Brisbane Skyline

City Botanic Garden
This garden is something like a miniature garden of London Hyde Park. I guess I shouldn't use miniature. Smaller is more appropriate. Yup, this botanical garden reminds me of Hyde Park because of those monuments there. Wait a minute, the fact that this garden has extensive Mangrove Broadwalk makes it more "botanical" than Hyde Park. Haha... ya, for those who have not seen Mangrove, probably it is worth a walk to look at huge mangrove trees with wide-spread roots plunged vertically onto the ground. Frankly, Mangrove farm in Sepetang, Perak will have much more to offer. :)

Mangrove Walk & Dragon Tree

Entrance of City Botanic Garden

Brisbane Central Business District
Central Business Districts (CBD) is a collection of Modern Skyscrappers offering business lots and luxurious hotel accomodation for business travellers. The southern most tip of CBD is City Botanic Garden mentioned earlier. If every city has a famous bridge, then, Brisbane has more story to tell because she has Story Bridge. As I was running along the Story Bridge during my stay there, I noticed runners are found along Story Bridge and South Bank which offers excellent runner lane. My running friends, don't forget to bring your gear. The run along South Bank from Story Bridge towards Good Will Bridge offers excellent golden view of Brisbane skyline in the evening. 2008 Valentine's Day, I ran along this route and saw lovey dovey couple laying down on fields along the river bank enjoying wine in laughters with roses. How romantic!!!

Places for shopping and souvenirs in Brisbane would be the famous Queen Street. Don't miss the bargain!

Story Bridge

Left: Customs House Right: Eagle Street Pier

Left: City Hall Right: Albert St. Uniting Church

China Town at Brunswick Street

2008 Chinese New Year was something like 2004 Chinese New Year. Yes, I was abroad in London and Brisbane. Celebrating CNY in abroad was always special for me because seriously I think the atmosphere in chinatown is lifelier than what I have in my hometown. Of course, I miss my family back-home. The only consolation I have is the wushu show presented by foreigners in centre of Chinatown. Frankly, the food offered here was really excellent as compared to what I have in London Chinatown. To me, this chinatown is more like oriental town with restaurant spread from Hong Kong to Penangite, Vietnamese to Japanese. Chinatown was a busy place to be during CNY. I am particularly surprised to find that local Australian are fervent of this event. Wow...

Finally, I managed to complete my Brisbane write-up after I have been there 9 months ago. This write-up is not the best that I have ever written but it surely serves a good overview of what this clean business hub has to offer...

Lovey Gold Coast

2008-02-27T10:32:00.012+08:00

A lovey Gold Coast Trip
A while ago, I was marking the sites that I have conquered in facebook and shamefully realized that zero travel count in down-under. Ghee... it will be my next destination! Ever since I left UK, I have not been travelling to any westerner country. (Wait...Australia is not on the west also LOL). My recent travels were more focus in Asia most recent Koh Samui... "Work-Eat-Run-Sleep" x N days later, the DAY comes, 31st Jan.

Smell of rendang chicken & nasi lemak filled the cabin as I unwrapped my dinner pack in AirAsia-X A310 flight to Coolangantta from LCCT. Yum yum... It is heavenly food despite the RM20 per pack. Ex? Well.... portion is generous and the rendang chicken is really scrumptious. Way way better than western meal.

Tip: Go go go for Nasi Lemak not any other meal on your way to Gold Coast.

Red Hot AirAsia-X landed on Coolangatta Airport

The entrance to Australia was really really tight. I was questioned left right and centre and including my back. Ok, I didn't say "examine".. ;) What I mean is the officer really asked a lot of questions to make sure I am not one of those "jumpers" . I even need to reach out for my wallet from my back pocket to pass her my IC. Thus, left, right, centre & back! Hehehe....

Transportation to your accomodation.
Ok, this is a fairly important topic... because I think if my friends have told me about how the transportation here works, I would have saved $$. The moment you came out from the custom check, you will notice queue of people lining up to procure their airport transfer to hotel.$33 (return) & $18(single). This airport transfer will fetch you to a spot in certain area and you have to walk to your own hotel. So, not a direct air-port transfer. :S If money is not your concern, I guess $33 (return) is better deal than a cab which starts at $4 and the your wallet cents leaks every like 3-5seconds or 10metres. Ex!!!

Let me tell you how the transportation works, Gold Coast, Brisbane & Sunshine Coast transportation (bus & train) is managed by Translink:
Fare: http://www.translink.com.au/qt/translin.nsf/index/ti_fares_adult_Jul07
Zone coverage: http://www.translink.com.au/qt/translin.nsf/ReferenceLookup/080212_map_network_GoldCoast.pdf/$file/080212_map_network_GoldCoast.pdf).
Example: From Coolangatta airport (zone 18) to Surfer Paradise (zone 14) crosses 4 zones, and if you are traveling on weekend (off-peak), single fare is $3.60 and offpeak daily (multiple rides) is $5.40.

$18.00 "door-to-door" service Vs Normal bus service $3.60 on bus 700. Your choice!!!!
Note: one caveat with normal bus service is you need to walk from the airport to the main road to board on bus which is about 500meters (Map ref: http://www.goldcoastairport.com.au/terminal_map.php). So young back-packer.. I know your choice! :)

Beaches along Gold Coast
Along the coastline of Gold Coast, there are multiple spots where tourists would stay. Depending on your nature of travelling you may want to choose a quieter sub-urn likes Broadbeach over happening and tourist-packed Surfers Paridise. Main beach is what I called posh area... so my choice is...

Surfers Paradise

The Paradise is full of activities and lots of food choice here. Yes, most youngsters hang out here and don't be suprised to see a melting pot of skin colours overhere. I noticed there are quite a bit of Japanese and Korea here probably due to the cold winter back in the home.

What is next? A pair of sandals is what I need. Ya, manage to get a japanese sandal made in china for $3 with OZ flag as decoration. Check out below. At the point of buying, I didn't realize it is rather good for adding little spice onto my pictures. Another thing not to be miss is Hungry Jack's burger. C, you are right! Burgers here rock! Whopper Stunner Deal with Cookie Cream Ice-cream at $6.00 is good deal! Haha...

Burger King = Hungry Jack's

Coast guard points are set-up along the white and fine coastline. It is important to swim in the area marked by the tall yellow-red pole. Talk about the beach and the wave. Wow.. it was really nice and salty as well. The seabed slowly extends out where I could stand some 50 meters from the beach with the sea level at my chest. Yes, the standing myself against the wave is fun. Playful I must say. Sometimes, it just surges high and splashes over me. Sometimes, the wave appears to be from the 45 degree right and suddenly one appears 30 degree left. Love it! Not to forget sun-block is very important due to the high UV level. In fact, the number killer in Australia is skin cancer. I was really tanned when I was there but recovering now.

Coast guard in business. No they don't charge u.. :)

Left: Red-yellow flag pole Right: Me @ SurfersParadise

Surfers Paradie: Sun bathing & Wave Surfing Paradise

Left: Towards southern Right:Towards Nothern

Croc AVP Beach Volleyball Competion on 17th Feb

Accomodation

Service Apartments are everywhere in Gold Coast. The rate is competitive at $300-350 per week for 2 stars over $400-500 per week for really good ones. If you plan to stay long, go for service apartment as you can cook inside and Woolworth (Woolie - how the local calls it) is very assessible in Surfers Paradise.

Food

Most of the time, my friend and I were cooking our meals but I will cover some here... We have seafood platter in Seafood Mania. The waiters here are really good at selling. Give you a free garlic bread voucher if you buy a meal with them. Well, the food is alright was not fantastic. But, worth a try.

Left: Garlic Bread Right: Seafood Platter

Kebab is something I like when I was studying in UK. I find Theo's Kebabs good and the price is reasonable. Try the Humus source. :) I got myself a kebab and a can of Solo Lemonade. Woo lala.... It cost me $8.20.

Hardrock cafe is around the corner too... and my brain just trick me into it. It is an expensive habit. Haha... but... this is probably the only time I spent a lot on my clothes. Most of the time, I am a casual wearer. Citi Tee design is not interesting and I go for a classic hardrock black colour shirt.

Copenhagen Ice Cream seems selling really well under the hot sun. 2 scoops for $7. Ex! Tried it and it was so-so. Too sweet for me. However, you must at least try one..... how can you not? Gelatisimo, an Italian ice-cream franchise is not far from Copenhagen which happens to be next to Hardrock. It was rather good and price was relatively cheaper than Copenhagen's. However, the mamamia experience that I have in Della Palma Ice-Cream, Rome was simply unbeatable!!!

Titlis Swiss Alp Snowman

2007-12-26T00:12:00.000+08:00

Blessed Christmas to all.....

It has been 2 months since my previous blog. Forgive for being really sluggish due to JOB. Really this Christmas was splendid day for me because of a run of activities in Church. As a matter of fact, I could not talk about food now after being over pampered with finger-licking foods - turkey with cranberry souce & lamb with mint souce and etc....

Before my write-up of my cool snow man on 3020meter Swiss Alp, I just would like to clarify that Christmas is really not about Santa Claus. It is about Jesus Christ that was born in a manger in Bethlehem on this day. A day that is very significant in the history of time when God has sent His only Son to Earth to show His LOVE to the world. More on http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Christmas.

Mount Titlis is a famous tourist spot in the heart of Switzerland. Train ride connecting Lucerne to Engelberg is just an hour with breaktakingly scenic view of Swiss lush and hills. From Engelberg Station, the cable car station to Mount Titlis is just merely 15-minute walk. The ascend to the peak of Mount Titlis offers excellent bird-eye view of Engelberg town which is surrounded by pine trees. The last ride is indeed on the world's first revolving cable car. Cool ya!!!

Mount Titlis Station has restaurants serving pipping hot food and beverages. At the top of the station is the exit to the ice-filled plateau where astonishingly beautiful Swiss Alps are standing.

Left: Malaysia Flag at the Entrance. Yeah!
Right: Entrance to Mt. Titlis

Left: Lake in the middle of the ride.
Right: Notice in "Bahasa".

Left: Ice Grotto
Right: Swiss Alp in mid October

Left: View when ascending to Titlis Alp
Right: Swiss Mountains from Engelberg

Snowman making was probably the task that I couldn't afford to miss. Thinking it was probably an easy quest, soon it dawned on me that it took enormous amount of efforts to make a considerably huge snowman. Worst of all is I didn't bring my glove. Numbness is the appropriate word for my hands when it is done. So, tell me if you think the snowman is cool and sexy. No carrot as nose..... haha....

All the efforts are worth when tourists asked for permission to take photos with my snowman. Yippie!!!

Moving ice for my snowman

Finally, I am not sure whether it is coincident or by purpose, I found out that there is a cable car with Jalur Gemilang (Malaysian's Flag) and it is numbered 57 (Malaysia gained her independence on 1957). Surely, this special car took me down Titlis Alp that day with smilling face full of satisfaction of a great day that I had in 2004. Passing Christmas Spirit to:

Velverse - http://www.velverse.com/
Juan - http://zhichuan.lifelogger.com/blog

Danielle - http://yongdanielle.blogspot.com/
Lilian Chan - http://chanlilian.net/

London Spot: Trafalgar Square

2007-10-21T17:18:00.000+08:00

Trafalgar Square (鸽子广场) - a square once full of pigeons; a square that got her name from Cape of Trafalgar, South-West of Spain. Huh?!! Why Spain? Isn't Trafalgar Square one of the famous landmark of London, UK?

History tells that under the leadership and inspiration of Admiral Nelson, 27 British fleet destroyed an allied French and Spanish fleet of 33 ships of Cape of Trafalgar. To commemorate the naval victory during Napoleonic Wars (Battle of Trafalgar), a square, situated in centre of west-end London, is constructed - Trafalgar's Square.

Knowing about the background of the square, my mind wonders, "Where is Admiral Nelson?" :) His statue is located at the top of Nelson's Column that is erected at the centre of the square. It is his inspiration and ability to bring out the best of his men that brought this decisive victory to Britain during the Napoleonic Wars. Unfortunately, he died in the battle with his last words "Thank God I have done my duty"

So, are you looking forward to be at such remarkable square after your pleasant London Eye ride? Simply, cross River Thames by using Milennium Bridge and walk towards the square as indicated in the map below:

National Gallery stands at the north side of the square with exquiste collection of arts from different eras and themes. Entrance is free with donation box for generous patrons who wish to contribute to sustain the operation of the gallery.

Tips: Looking for place to replenish your drinking bottle? Outside the lower-ground washroom of National Gallery is the place. ;)

National Gallery at the North side of Trafalgar Square.

Left: St. Martin's-in-the-Fields Church
Right: Beautiful Fountain

Left: Water Foutain
Right: Nelson's Column

Next: Tower Bridge. Stay tuned and take the ride with me ... soon.

364-day Revisiting Pulau Payar

2007-10-20T15:25:00.000+08:00

10th Nov 2006. After 4 years staying in Penang and heard so much about it from friends and colleagues, finally I boarded on Langkawi Coral Ferry towards Pulau Payar. Pulau Payar is 2.5hours away from Penang and 1hour from Langkawi. One day excursion from Penang is RM180 for Malaysian which includes ferry transfer and decent buffet lunch.

Pulau Payar Marine Park is on the east coast of Pulau Payar with floating platform. After some safety briefing, we were provided, safety jacket, goggles and flippers. However, if you are short-sighted like me, do bring your own goggles with power. At the rear of the platform is an observation chamber where you will be dazzled with those colourful fishes. Oh yes, not forgetting the scary, slow-swimming, sharp-teeth baracoda.

Hint: Wear your swimwear before the trip because there will be long queues for changing room.
Tip: Sun-block is essential. Sun glass is luxury. ;)

Lunch is served around 12:00pm. So, to avoid the crowd be sure that you are on the platform 10-minute before the lunch time. Once the food runs out there is no refill....

Left: Langkari Coral Platform.
Right: Observation Chamber.

Left: Snorkeling in Marine Park
Right: HL and me.

School of Big-eye fish

Scary Baracoda among other fishes

Fishes flock together where food is fed.

Baby Sharks near Pulau Payar.

After lunch ended around 1:30pm, we were transfered to Pulau Payar to have leisure walk near the island. Baby sharks feeding is the highlight here. Marine Park staffs would attrack baby sharks to come ashore with dead fish as bait. If you are daring enough, you can stand near the staffs and touch the sharks when they come near to shore. ;) Taking photos of the greenish Pulau Payar with the turquoise ocean are something you don't want to miss.... simply awesome!!!

Scenes from Pulau Payar Marine Park.

Scenes from Pulau Payar Marine Park.

Kenneth and Me.

Left: Baby Shark Feeding

Right: Group Photo

At around 2:30pm, we were transferred back to the platform where some of us not having enough of snorkelling will continue diving into the sea for another 1hour. For others, playing UNO seemed to be the right activity to relax ourselves and hide under the shield from the scorching hot sun.

At about 3:30pm, the ferry back to Penang arrived from Langkawi. But, for 7 of us that were heading Langkawi, we boarded on another ferry that arrived from Penang. Hehe... for more of my langkawi island trip, please read http://elvinongbl.blogspot.com/2007/01/escape-to-langkawi-from-hectic-work.html

Big Ben, Westminster Abbey, The Thames

2007-10-09T22:15:00.000+08:00

Since young I always have deja vu that one day I will walk down the Thames and be dazzled by the Big Ben. In fact, my first 1000-piece jig-saw puzzle is Palace of Westmister. At certain point of my life, this dream was shattered due to 97 economy downturn. So, I thought it is just a dream and I could only afford to see Big Ben in my room on the framed puzzle. My life took a turn and truly it was God's blessing that this dream of mine was granted in September 2003. Surely, prayer works ...

Continue from my talk on Buckingham Palace, Big Ben and Westminster Abbey are within walking distance from St James's Park as clearly shown by the Google map below.

From St. James Park to Big Ben and ...

Westminster Abbey is Gothic Church famously known for coronation and burial for English monarchs. Yes, 10-year ago this church (St Margaret's) was swamped by crying crowds throwing roses on the road as Princess Diana was horse-carried out of the church after her funeral mass. Sadness and Solemnity are in the air even as I write about it now....

St Margaret's Church of Westminster Abbey

Left: A good view of Westmister Abbey & Big Ben
Right: "Big Ben" at the northern end of Houses of Parliament

Big Ben is a name so popularly known so much so that most people including myself will misunderstand that the Houses of Parliament (Palace of Westminster) as Big Ben. Truly, Big Ben only refers to the Clock Tower.

Why is it called Big Ben? There was a huge debate on the new name for Clock Tower and so happened that the big-sized Benjamin was making a lot of fuss about it. Being frustrated over the lengthy debate, a back-bencher shouted out, "Why not we just call it Big Ben...".

Left: Big Ben & Big Me
Right: Palace of Westminster across River Thames.

Across the River Thames and from London Eye, Palace of Westminster (Houses of Parliament) is breath-takingly beautiful. During the day, the Gothic sand-colored palace under the bright sunny day transcends her glorious elegance far beyond any comparison. When night comes, this yellow-litted palace transforms into an ancient dungeon full of mysteries or perhaps the HQ for Her Majesty's secret service.

London Eye (Millennium Wheel) is a huge ultra modern Ferris Wheel owned by British Airway. In fact, each capsule is called cabin. When I stepped into the cabin, "welcome aboard" can be heard from the announcement speaker. It really feels like taking BA flight except there is no in-house entertainment system or food. But, this flight offers the best view of London. Standard adult fare is GBP15 and GBP7.5o for children. Well, from economic viewpoint, it is a huge, ever-moving, money-generating wheel of fortune. Haha.. no wonder many states have such set-up: Malaysia (KL), Austria (Vienna), Japan (Kobe) just to name a few...

During Deiva's visit to London, I pampered myself for a ride. The view of London is beyond words. Specifically, the view of Palace of Westminster when the capsule is at 2 0'clock is remarkable. I was speechless and paying lot of attentions trying to spot obvious and hidden landmarks of London. Among some easily spotted ones are Imperial College Tower, Bridge Tower, Trafalgar Square.

Left: London Eye, Deiva and Me.
Right: Flying Capsule-like BA Cabin

Truly a beauty - Palace of Westmister

Left: River Thames Cruise
Right: Big Ben and me.. Both equally big.

London Eye

Millennium Bridge towards Charing Cross Station

Left: Nightview of London Eye from Millennium Bridge.

Right: Nightview of Big Ben from Millennium Bridge.

From London Eye, you should cross the Thames towards Charing Cross by using Millennium Bridge. As you walk towards the bridge, you will see interesting street performers trying to win pennies from those who enjoy their show. So, if you like the performance, don't be stingy. They deserve it. ;)

The nightview of River Thames gives totally different touch. During the day, the environment along River Thames is vibrant and thriving. In the night, if Paris has the gold Eiffel Tower for romantic escapade, London has the blue London Eye for a magical night-out.

How I long to return to there ...

Bukit Hijau Waterfall: WoW!!!

2007-09-29T21:43:00.000+08:00

Bukit Hijau Waterfalls

29th Sept 2007, Kedah.
Just got back from an excellent trip to Bukit Hijau Waterfall, Kedah. Awesome is the word in my mind now as I recollect on those picturesque waterfalls, 7 of them. For convenience of visitors, sturdy bridges, proper walkways and pavilions are constructed along the wap up the waterfalls. The humid environment sheltered by forest canopy makes it a perfect place to escape the hot weather in the city. Particularly, what draw my attention is moss. Yes, moss. Why? The various types of moss can be found everywhere:- rocks, trees, walkways. Personally, to a certain degree, these greenish moss carpets give Bukit Hijau a feel of Japanese Garden in the mystical tropic jungle.

1st Fall.

Sturdy Bridge across water stream

Decorative moss besides river stream

Big rock covered with hanging moss

Crouching Tiger Hidden Dragon?

Hairy Moss

A casual walk up the hill soon brought me to the 2nd fall that appears majestically on the left where rapid stream plunges approximately 20-meter from the top in the midst of forest garden. Wow!!! I actually think this most scenic fall of Bukit Hijau because of its set-up. Simply breath-taking. Unfortunately, it is not allowed to swim at the spot.

The gorgeous and sleek 2nd fall

Shortly after 2nd fall is the 3rd fall that has the biggest swimming pool. Because of its size and the water is gentle and shallow, this area is normally packed with people, typically suitable for family outing. However, the area nearer to the fall is the very dangerous because of the under current. So becareful ya!!!!

Big pool at 3rd fall

Mini "Niagra Fall" ?

4th, 5th & 6th falls are not apparent and you may miss it if you don't observe it closely. You can see them as you continue your climb up. These falls are close to each other and they are just right after the upper part of 3rd fall. Water is very drastic here and nobody is allowed to swim.

Finally, I arrived at the 7th fall and it is amazing. Compared to 2nd fall, this fall is unique because of the stair-case like rockface. Due to its height and closer to the water source, the water here is really cold. Not forgetting to mention, the air here is very refreshing because of its ionic environment created naturally as the water falls down and hits the water surface. Leaning against the rockface and letting the falling water giving my shoulders free massage is simply heavenly.

Good tip: Bring salt to repel leeches and plasters for wound.

Wish I am at this place tonight ....

2007-09-26T00:53:00.000+08:00

This is not a travel guide entry.

I wish that the mid-autumn full moon can perform magic tonight. I wish that Trevi Fountain is in front of me when I open my eyes fulfilling my wish to come to this place again. A place where I can spend hours appreciating those vividly crafted sculptures as I recollect on my life change in recent 3 years as I reach out to draw energy and gather courage to move forward ...

A while ago, I was reading an entry by Danielle which coincidentally touches me at the right spot of my heart at the right time. Yes, as much as I want to listen to my inner voice at this moment, I want to devote time to listen to His too. Though Faith is weak and trumbling now but I know that given the correct spirit it will be revived. Where else can be the best place for this now than Fontana de Trevi, Rome.

Many visit the place for its unique romantic atmosphere but it is the serenity that I seek after. An in-depth search for peace that will open the blind eyes, unlock the dead-fear and lit the heart-candle. As I remember ancient scriptures that say "More is less. Less is more", life passes at the blink of eyes if I don't pause to reflect. Serenity seems less but it is more to me now. More to life than any other thing.

The centre piece of the fountain presents two horses fighting against the capturers with all their strength, a perfect reflection of my heart's voice. Yes, I want to be passionate in what I am doing and continue to brave myself against raging waves of challenges zealously and whole-heartedly.

As I recall the evolvement of this fountain that spans 100+ years and its glory now, I can't help but be amazed how fruitful perseverance can be. Yes, it is perseverance not men that creates this masterpiece. It also rekindles my belief "building thy house on the rock not sand" which requires a great deal of perseverance.

As those past events flash vividly in my mind, both positive and negative, would change my life in a positive way as long as I have strong Faith. Faith may seems a big word to mention now but my conscience compels me to put it down as it becomes clear to me how life can creep into perplexity along side with fading faith.

Surely, of all the virtues put forth, Faith is the Key.

London Spot: Buckingham Palace

2007-09-04T15:02:00.000+08:00

Several visits to Buckingham Palace have been made as it is an important landmark not to be missed for visiting friends (Simon, Deiva, Wai Pang and Vincci, Ming Han, Auntie Yee, Uncle Boo and his family). A landmark synonymous to White House of Washington where without such visit your trip would be incomplete. The last visit I have is with my mum during my graduation in 2005 Summer.

Map from Green Park to the palace

Buckingham is situated besides Green Park and is accessible within walking distance from Green Park tube exit and bus stop. Unlike the much famous Hyde Park or Kensington Park, Green Park is a simple park with rows of trees standing on green lush like ushers escorting me to the palace. Yes, the scene will change interestingly when autumn comes where branches of the semi-naked trees under the bright sunny day will create an intricate shadow web on the fields covered with brown-yellowish fallen leaves.

Left: Fallen leaves of Green Park
Right: The Royal emblem

The daily change of guards event that occurs 30 minutes before noon is an event worth stop-over despite the short and simple ceremony and tourist crowds. On a very lucky day, you may have chance to see special occasion taking place in front of the palace. Yeah, during Deiva's visit, we were blessed to witness a grand ceremony where army barret in red uniform and tall, furry, black hat with musical instruments parade down the main street. Yes, it was a commemoration day for fallen armies in WWII. Check out the video clip recorded. :)

It is believed that in rare occasion the Queen waves her hand from a window of the front facade to acknowledge her visitors. For those willing the pay, an experience of garden tea party with the Queen in the summer will cost GBP500. In certain days of the year when the royal family retreat to their summer palace in Scotland, the palace is open for limited visitors who fancy exclusive china tea set, jewellery, fine art and collectibles exhibited inside the palace.

Directly in front of the palace is a huge white monument of Queen Victoria fountain. The Queen is sitting on her throne with angels surrounding her and a golden arch-angel (probably Michael) standing on a squarish column. Clearly, it is a symbol of angelic protection over her empayar that once spans over ends of the world.

Shots around the palace

Left: Deiva and me in London 2004 Summer
Right: Queen Victoria Monument

Beautiful flowers and garden in St James's Park

Walking away from Buckingham Palace towards the direction of Big Ben, you will come across St. James's Park which I personally like after Kensington Park. In spite of its small area, in my opinion, this park has picturesque landscape with a lake at its centre with trees and beautiful flowers around it. Not forgetting those friendly approachable birds and squirrels that will seek food from you. Ya, I did have good fun feeding pigeons with some biscuit crumbs. As one pigeon landed on my palm and was chipping biscuit crumb another pigeon would fly in trying to fight for some left-over. Haha.. at one time my palm was accomodating 2 pigeons. :)

Variety of birds and swans in the St. James's Park

Up-close Pigeons feeding

Feeding squirrels

At the centre of the lake is a connecting bridge which is an excellent photography spot with London Eye as the backdrop. Similarly, it is also a good spot to for Buckingham Palace in the far end and the lake in the front

Left: Buckingham Palace from St. James's Park connecting bridge
Right:Duck Islands of St. James's Park with London Eye

Hong Kong Hard Rock City Tee

2007-09-04T00:23:00.000+08:00

Flipping through some Japan photos while recollecting some memorable moments in Nara, I came to realize that I have taken photos of my Hong Kong Hard Rock City Tee that I supposed to write a short blog entry about it. Coincidently I am wearing it now as preparing this blog in Subway Selangor Dredging. Ok, I will keep it short and sweet.

This is my second city tee from Chinese country, the one came after Beijing. Contrast to Tokyo tee that centre-stages an Endon warrior with roaring wave, this tee distinctly highlights 3 symbolic icons of Hong Kong: Hong Kong Island night view, Big Buddha of Lantao Island and Chinese Opera Singers. Fittingly, these icons reflect the truth about Hong Kong from cultural, financial and religion.
Of these 3 symbols, the opera singer draws my attention the most. Her simple smile with her fingers gracefully positioned is surely an elegant gesture most noticeable in chinese opera. Despite its simple colour combination, black & gold, its finely drawn opera scene capitalizes on such monochromic scheme to create an art truly worth careful appreciation.

The big buddha superimposed on the top of Hong Kong island mountain with his right hand raised is, in my opinion, a carefully thought-after design, a symbol of blessing towards Hong Kong's economy and prosperity.

Yeah, the night view of Hong Kong Island from starwalk promenade is deeply imprinted in my mind. The synchronized laser and music show during chrismas Season is magical beyong words. Yes, Hong Kong is a city that never sleeps and it is not a myth. This vibrant and burstling metropolitan is rightfully presented at the centre of city tee in-lines with Hard Rock culture that is still up-beat after midnight.

Hard Rock Cafe Hong Kong
G/F & 1/F, Silvercord 30 Canton Road,
Tsim Sha Tsui., Kowloon Hong Kong

Koh Samui Trip Day 4

2007-08-26T17:42:00.000+08:00

Lazing in Varinda Resort (http://www.varindasamui.com/)

Nothing could be more reviving after an exhausted round island trip than to see sunrise from Varinda Resort. Yes, probably the rest of the resort residents would choose to sleep through the morning but not us, particularly me as I was seeking for the serenity in the morning. The trip has been relaxing and enjoyable so much so that I wished it to be longer if not forever... Maybe it is silly to think that waking up early would give me more time to dwell in this wonderland but wouldn't it be more silly not to experience the good moments to the fullest. What could be more gentle and warming than to let the first ray of the morning sun touch your face from the horizon while closing your eyes? Refreshing and energizing....

Varinda Resort Pool side

As the day become brighter, I suggested to the folks to enjoying fresh and chilled coconut direct from the fridge. Too bad, I had mine a night before and nobody offers me any... sob sob.

So, what is the chemical reaction of mixing refreshing coconut water with the energizing sunshine at the pool-side? Crazy and playful youngsters. As some of us were digging the coconut flesh, professional Nikon D70 took its position snapping multiple shots of big head photos using wide-angle len. It was really fun!!!

Who's who? YP, KS, CP, SK, AT & Me (clockwise from Top-left)
Can see Popeye the sailorman?

What came next? Morning swim!!! Yes, morning swim has always been my favorite thing to do whenever I find the time back in Penang. The morning swim in Varinda Pool with awesome ariel view of the enchanting Lamai Beach was heaven to me. A perfect place to relax is the waterfall part of the pool. Clinging myself over the edge of the fall, I was enjoying a harmonious symphony of birds' chirpings, bees' hummings and sound from water drops. Yes, this is the typical morning you can expect in Varinda Resort.

Talk about having breakfast in Varinda Resort. The setup of the cafeteria is cozy with wooden stools, chairs and tables. Situated on the hilly end of Lamai Beach, the resort gives a feel of having breakfast inside a hut-like cafeteria in the middle of tropic forest. Yeah, Set B for me please. The morning breakfast was a kind treat to us as we were served a plate of cute tiny "Yau Char Kuai" that best eaten with Coffee'O. Yes, I always like eating fruits for breakfast...

SingKing's aromatic coffee snapped in perfect geometrical contrast

This morning we decided to just relax ourselves and not travel far. Yeah, we really meant relax when we said it. 6 of us went for Thai massage which I picked oil massage to heal my sunburn on both of my shoulders from the snorkeling trip. The massage lasted one hour and cost 300Baht. Well, it was relaxing + ichy + soothing for my sunburn = giggles + ouchs . :P

After massage we decided to have lunch at Varinda before our flight at 5pm. Alright, I think I owed the owner an apology as I doubted her claims when I first asked her about any good restaurant recommendation on the first day. Yeah, Thai food in Varinda was really Thais style unlike other that we have tried before that were customized to westerner's taste. We have Seafood Clear Tom Yum, Mixed Vegetables, Thai Style Omelette with Musroom and chicken and Panang Chicken (Coconut Milk Thai Curry). As dessert, we have deep fried pineapple and banana that come with condensed milk, something unusual... hehe

Our Lunch on 13th Aug 2007

The 3 musketeers

While we were waiting for the pick-up van to transfer to air port, multiple photos were taken around the Varinda Resort. Come to think of it, the trip was really just a teaser and it should be longer as I put ut a night before that I need more rest after this trip than my normal working days.

Probably, I should plan another trip that is just one week beach vacation in Koh Tao for snorkeling, jungle trekking and picnicking by the beach with volley ball game. Anybody interested?

Left: Lamai Beach Right: This way to beach and town please...

Oh ya, I am so much in love with the dogs in Varinda Resort. They are so cuteeeee!! In fact, there is a good collection of dog statues in the garden as some may miss it. I missed the dogs so much. Too bad, I am staying in an apartment where dog raising is illegal. When I have my house next time, I will love to have a Dalmatian and a Basset Hound. :) So, let me present the cute dogs in Varinda Resort. Ta da!!!!

Left: Golden Retriever (Ah Wong) Right: ShiChi (Ah Mou)

Dachshund (Ah Cheong)

Left: Maltese (Xiao Hei) Right: Dog Statues

Varinda Resort is really a nice and cozy resort managed by a family. The resort is rather new and situated at the hilly end of Lamai Beach overseeing the 3km of white sandy coastline. In fact the resort punch line "Stay on the hill but feel like you are by the sea" is so appropriate. I like the friendliness of the owners and staffs here which make me feel like in home. It is definitely a resort that I would recommend if you are not too particular about staying on the beach.

In appreciation for your warm hospitality, allow me to present my thoughts for you ...

Varinda Resort

A resort in the Garden of Eden

with good scenic view of Lamai Beach while you
stayed connected to your MSN friends.

Be satisfied with exquisite dining experience
in wooden hut decorated with dangling shells and corals.

Be enchanted by elegant sculptures at corners most unexpected
where careful observation would reveal her inner beauty.

When night arrives you can rest in serenity
and feel refreshed the next morning.

A place one feel like at home....

A place one will leave in smile, joy and satisfaction.

Koh Samui Trip Day 3: Round Island Tour

2007-08-21T13:43:00.001+08:00

12th August 2007, Lamai Beach
Probably it was the Pinacolada that gave me good rest or my body not adjusted to 1 hour jet lag. I woke up pretty early on Sunday morning, 7am, and felt so much in the mood for morning running. As I was warming-up and walked pass the reception, the owner gave me thumb-up encouraging me in my morning run and exclaimed "Keep fit ya?". Replying "Yeah" with a smile, I started my run ...

Lamai beach road was pretty quiet in the morning where tourists were hardly seen along the road. As I jogged, street sweepers were busy cleaning up the mess from the busy night before. Yeah, I like Koh Samui's cleanliness, a clear-cut opposite of Bangkok. My aim was to run to the local market at the northern end of the beach road to look out for young coconuts and local breakfast.

The jog was enjoyable as the weather was not hot but lack the wind. In about 15 minutes later, I arrived at the market after making a left turn into a small road leading me to the outer Lamai road. The morning market was not packed with locals making it a pleasant visit for the sweaty me as I wandered from one stall to another. Communicating with the locals was really difficult as they don't understand English well but somehow I managed to buy 3 packs of kuih-muih. Specifically for "Mango glutinous rice", I did try to question whether it was "Mango" and the lady nobbing her head says "rai"... haha... it turned out later that "rai" is not Mango but paste that taste 30% likes kaya and 70% unknown of what is it....;)

My eyes were wide open when I saw a stall that was selling green coconuts. OMG, only 15Baht compared to 80Baht in Koh Nang Yuan. So, I thought it was cheap until Tesco-Lotus in Nathon town. A chilled ready-to-drink coconut is just 12Baht... I should have ask for 8Baht one in the market....

Thinking coconuts carrying was good for building more solid muscles and Varinda Resort is probably just 15-minute away, I ordered 6 coconuts to go. :P Alright, I must confess that carrying 3 coconuts at each hand and walk for 25minutes was not as easy as I thought. The numbness in my arms midway really tempted me to just drink two refreshing coconuts and bring back 4. Afterall, nobody is going to know about it right? It was meant to be a treat from me for arranging such wonderful trip.

Fast forward to after breakfast. At about 9:15am, the local chinese guide arrived in a chartered van to pick us for round island trip in clockwise direction starting with the first stop - Grandfather and Grandmother Rocks.

Spots for Round Island trip

Grandfather anf Grandmother Rocks
The specialty of the village at the entrance to these rocks is Dodol. We were given sample before purchase. Yummy... it is soft and particularly I love the Pandan Dodol. 1kg of Dodol costs 100Baht, a price pretty standard in Malaysia too, in fact Melaka TKH dodol will cost more.

So, what are so special about these rocks? Well, it is rather 18SX and you will surely discover what these rocks resemble once you look at the photos below... the best pose to take photo with Grandpa is to lie down on rock mimicking him... keke... I dare you... ;)

Left: Grandpa lazing around sunbathing....
Right: Need a bit of imagination. Can you see pp at 5 O'clock? Excuse me.

Left: Wild flower among the rocks extending towards sea
Right: The shame shame of Grandma

Rather slippery when going to see Grandmother Rock.

Taking photo of Grandpa is easy but not grandma. So, my recommendation is to buy a postcard that has both snaps for 5Baht. From the tour guide, I also came to realize that there is no shell in Koh Samui and all the decorative shell souvenirs on sale in Koh Samui is from Phuket. Come to think of it, dead shell and corals are not hardly seen along Lamai Beach.

Mummified Monk
Among the locals in Koh Samui, the monk was a highly respected person that can foresee one's destiny. He was married with family and decided to become monk at the age of 50. Towards the end of his life, he foreseen his death and started cleansing his body by controlling his diet. His body was then formed into manditating position by his apprentices and laid against a wood to support it. To know his story, please click the photo below. Unlike the mummy in Egypt that is usually wrapped in linen cloth and placed inside a wooden coffin, the coprse is displayed inside a showcase. A gold-platted sculpture of him is placed in the middle of the temple in front of the mummy. If you are small hearted person, my recommendation is not to look a the mummy.

What interest me more is a big, greenish bronze gong with "Try to make me cry" label besides the temple. Everyone of us was trying to make it cry by rubbing our palm against the raised centre boss as it was believed that those that could will have good fortune. Unfortunately, none of us manage including myself. If you can, please tell me ok? Haha....

Left: "Try to make me cry" Gong
Right: Mummified Monk

Story of Mummified Monk

Na Muang Waterfall
As we travelled from Mummified monk to Na Muang Waterfall, the tour guide started to cast a concept that many chineses come to Thailand to pray in temple and take elephant ride to change a person's luck, i.e. richer. His pitch became even stronger when we arrived at Na Muang Waterfall. Soon we came to realize that the ride would cost us 600Baht per person for 30 minutes ride and each elephant can only carry 2 persons. Well, I guess the price factor decouraged us from taking the ride.

Well, for me if the pitch is not on changing destiny but on wonderful experience like an ancient Thai King travel across river stream in parade, I would have bought his idea. Better pray for wisdom or patience in life than wealth ma...

When I saw the waterfall, I felt so eager to jump into the pool and standing under the falling water letting the flow massages my tired shoulders. Oh yeah, before we left the place we have refreshing coconut drink at 20Baht each.

Na Muang waterfall

Left: Elephant ride. Right: Coconuts!!!

Street Shopping and Lunch at Nathon Town
As we were travelling to Nathon Town, the tour guide started to share about the success of Koh Samui tourism so much so Malaysian tourism board is engaging Goodmorning Travel Agency to learn about it. Well, I can't be more agreed with him on the charm Koh Samui has managed to develop even though it is booming in tourism industry here. The brochures are simply first class. The beach is simply nice and clean. The people is nice and helpful.

Nathon Town is the gateway to the island for those travelled here via waterway. The town is really nothing spectacular and shopping here is ok. The town is pretty run-down that day because it is the Queen's Birthday. However, the lunch that we have was not bad. It was recommended by the tour guide. Particularly worth mentioning is the Jungle Curry Chicken. It is so spicy that most of us cannot really take. If Mr. Tan was here, he would be very happy and savouring the gravy with "lam lam" sound. :P

I also found out that coconut in Tesco-Lotus is just 15Baht. OMG.. I was "cheated" in the morning market.

Left: Fried Brocollie with char siew Right: Tom Yum Seafood

Jungle Curry Chicken. Thumb-up some more!!! Got Kick!!!

Big Buddha Beach
At about 1pm we arrrived at Big Buddha temple located at the northern part of the island. This temple is much more grand than the Mummified Monk temple. The huge golden statue has staircase leading towards the upper deck. I once heard the reason why there is such staircase is because when the visitors walk up the steps their head will bow down in a position that is showing a sign of respect. ;)

It was scenic at the upper deck where beautiful view of Bhoput Beach is on the left and Koh Pha Hgan on the right. There are hanging bronze bells around the temple with sticks available for hitting. Probably, hitting the bells would mean calling for intervention from Buddha to change a person's life?

Shops with modest variety of souvenirs are set up in front of the temple. Something that drew my interest were those metal sculptures very artistic in its own right. I was indeed very impressed with the level detail and resemblance of these sculptures particularly Dark Vadar, Alien, Gremlin just to name a few. The first time I saw such craftworks was in Hatyai 5 years back. If budget was not the concern, I would probably buy a Gremlin back ... and my mum would surely exclaim "What is that creature?"

In another shop, I came across a very cute wooden miniature owl. It was 120Baht and I managed to bargain for 70Baht. [After much bargaining in Lamai Beach, I am beginning to master the skill.. Haha...] Yes! It is my very first miniature owl collection and more to come in future travelling. I reckon owl is much more cute and elegant than cat or duck. I like particularly the big eyes. So, my friend, if you are travelling please don't buy me any hardrock pin or fridge magnet. I want miniature owl. Ok? :)

Left: Chinese Bells for hitting
Right: Group photo with Bhoput Beach as backdrop

Nice Shot of Big Budda Temple.

Expensive Souvenir Shop
Before ending the round-island trip, we made a quick stop at Koh Samui Island Souvenir Shop besides Tesco-Lotus. Yes, I agreed with the guide that the quality of souvenir here is high quality. Naturally, they are more pricey. Running low with cash, I decided to pay my purchase by using credit card which is convenient but with the caveat is 30Baht surcharge. There is no sign and I was not told about such surcharge until I signed the bill. My recommendation, get your souvenirs from Chaweng Beach and be prepared to bargain.

Tesco Lotus
As it was too early to go to Chaweng Beach, we decided to chill out in Tesco-Lotus Mall which is the biggest shopping mall in town. It has Tesco hypermarket, HomePro furnishing depot, bowling alley, cineplexes and retail shops. We didn't do much in the mall except for window shopping and chit-chating. Everyone was quite bored and tired. I did the next best time passing activity - enjoying a banana cookies sundae from KFC for 19Baht. :P

The other two guys are adventurous. They have a hair cut and washing for 200Baht per head. Stylish mate!!

Time seems really tick-tocked slow in the mall... soon we decided to grab some bite of kuih-muih from morning in the foodcourt which eventually turned out to be a big Thai food bash. How can we resist the aromatic Thai beef soup noddle with self serving of beansprout and spring onion? Feeling not satisfied and since the top-up card still have a balance of 45Baht, I ordered vegetable hotplate with chicken. The gravy tasted abit like "Fu Yu" (fermented tofu paste).

Vegetable hot-plate

Chaweng Beach

Being told Chaweng Beach is just 1km away (by tour guide) we started walking from Tesco towards Chaweng Beach which was disastrous. The estimated 30-minute walk turned out to be 90-minute. Worst of all is it started to rain when we are just about to reach Chaweng Beach. Thinking of it, it was 60% ridiculous and 40% funny on how 6 smart people were "tricked" to believe that Chaweng Beach is within walking distance by the locals. Luckily the chit-chat along the walk made it less miserable and interesting... Yes.. from the start my gut feeling told me that Chaweng Beach is not at the end of the tall coconut tree but a lot of coconut trees away... Hahaha...

Looking at the map now, Tesco-Lotus is at Ban Chaweng (Ban=town in Thais) and Chaweng Beach is indeed very far away. Taking tut-tut will be a wiser choice. However, I am still proud that we walked from Tesco-Lotus to Chaweng Beach. :P Probably, we were the only people walker that evening as others were looking at us from Tut-tut.

Chaweng Beach spans over 7km. The northern half of the beach road is where the happening area lies where international brands, pubs full of guests cheering for their EPL team in big screen are so common. Along the high street, restaurants offering seafood, Indian, Western, Italian and tapas bar, truly a wide selection of international cuisine. Talk about shopping in Chaweng Beach, it is easily 200% more exciting where a vast variety of choices are available for we to pick from. Got myself a really fitting green Von Dutch for 150Baht. I mean really fitting... :P In fact, something not available in Lamai is that Chaweng has really excellent gallery for oil painting lovers. Particularly, the painting of Manchester United Former Captain Cantona is still very vivid in my mind as I write this blog.

As much as the shopping experience was great , the hunger in us compelled us to make a stop for dinner. After much research, we decided to dine in Long Table Seafood Restaurant. Ironically, the longest tables could only accomodate 8 persons. It was our last dinner in Koh Samui and by right we should be having a royal feast. Unfortunately most of the money exchange does not accept Malaysian Ringgit. For the few that accepts, the rate is so much poorer Rm1 = 8.1Bath versus 9.6Bath in Penang. Limited in cash, we could only settle with ordinary dishes envious of foreigners next tables that were chewing juicy king lobster and tiger prawn. Oh dear...

For dinner, we had 4 dishes : Thai Style Sweet-Sour Chicken, Broccolli with Musrooms, Tom Ka Gai Seafood and Fried fish in Black Temerik Sauce. Serving wise is quite small but the meal cost 300Baht each. I wasn't too full and was looking for Thai Sausage but unfortunately not common in Chaweng Beach.

After the dinner, we tried our luck to exchange for Thai Baht in K Currency Exchange which turns out to be having the best rate in Koh Samui, RM1 = 9.1Baht.

Tip: Go to K Currency Exchange to exchange for more Thai Baht.

There is Hotel called The Library in Chaweng which is pretty cool. :) Check out how these young hearts posed in front of The Library.

Tadaa!! Me in my fitting Von Dutch Shirt

Before Chaweng Beach visit came to an end, we hang around the beach area and eventually dragged ourselves back to Varinda Resort in Tut-Tut that just cost 50Baht per person. The Tut-Tut took the middle beach road passing by the hawker stalls centre that we originally wanted to have dinner in. But, if we were to walk until there for dinner we would be deadman walking....

Conconclusion, the round island trip is really just so-so. Probably, the grandfather and grandmother rock and namuang waterfall worth the visit. If I were to visit Koh Samui again, I would spend more time to explore Chaweng Beach. Also, I miss a chance to see Thai Boxing ....

Koh Samui Trip Day 2: Koh Tao & Koh Nang Yuan

2007-08-16T23:49:00.000+08:00

A Snorkeling Retreat to Koh Tao & Koh Nang Yuan
Saturday 11th Aug, 2007
Breakfast in Varinda Resort
Probably Kooi Sim & myself are too excited about the snorkeling trip as our alarm clocks rang together an hour before the supposed wake-up time, 6:00am. Without knowing about it, we prepared ourselves for breakfast until the initially doubtful Sing King confidently pointed out it was just 5:20am. Oh no.... Thailand is at GMT+7 and I had forgotten to synchronize my handphone clock to local time....

Around 6:15am, Kooi Sim & I headed towards the cafeteria where the resort staffs were busy setting up to serve breakfast... I ordered Set B (Ham, Bacons, scrambled eggs, toasts, butter and jam. The ala carte breakfast also comes with fruit juices and a cup of hot coffee or tea. In fact, the owner told me that if we are still hungry, we can ask for food or drink refill. It leaves me good impression .... Around 6:40am, the ladies joined us and majority of us ordered Set B except Agnes who wanted to try something different - Thai Style Rice Soup and the next day she ordered Set B.

To our surprise, Karen from marketing department appeared in the cafeteria together with her boyfriend and parent. In fact, the boyfriend is Sing King's university friend. It could not be even more coincidental that they were also going on the same snorkeling trip as us and supposed to travel in the same van. Small world after all....

Around 7am the pick-up van arrived and we were transferred to Bhoput Beach Ferry Terminal which is at the northern beach of Koh Samui. The journey was a short but bumpy ride. Being on the co-driver seat, I had the luxury of up-close view of how Samui locals busy about their chores in the morning. However, it was rather scary as the driver vroomed through sharp curves without slowing down in speed. In rare occasion, morning joggers could be seen along the main road behind Lamai Beach triggering my interest to do the same ... Did I run this trip? Of course and with "weight" lifting also... haha... tell you more in my day 3 blog...

Bhoput Beach Ferry Terminal
At the ferry terminal, we were surprised by the amount of passengers waiting there. Look like we were not those few early birds. At the registration counter, we came to realize that we didn't bring our official trip receipt and were quite nervous in the first place. Luckily, the company has our purchase record and we were granted green light. Thank God for that. To categorize the passenger, a light green ribbon was tied on our hand and a purple sticker with handwritten number "12" was placed on our chest. Soon, we boarded on one of the Lomprayah High Speed Catamarans and were revived by sea breeze along the ride at the left side of the boat that shields us from direct sun shine.

Without knowing where Koh Tao & Koh Nang Yuan is about, Lomprayah Catamaran first headed towards the huge island north of Koh Samui, Koh Pha Ngan. This is the island popular for its crazy full moon party where white sandy beach glows under the moon light transforming itself as the open-air dance floor.

Left: Koh Tao, Koh Nang Yuan from Koh Samui
Right: Detail of Koh Tao & Koh Nang Yuan

After making a quick stop at Koh Pha Ngan, the catamaran continued her way northwest-ward and the ride took approximately 2 hours to reach Koh Nang Yuan. When it is just about to reach Koh Nang Yuan, we saw something very special over the blue sky: a long arrow white cloud. Hymm.....is it a arrow from cupid? The arrow was like pepper and salt to the long 2-hour ride. As the catamaran swayed passed Koh Tao, the smaller Koh Nang Yuan, two isles connected by a stretch of white beach with blue-greenish sea on both sides of the beach, elegantly reveals herself. Simply heaven!!!

The catamaran parked at Koh Nang Yuan and those with green ribbon were transferred to smaller boat that headed towards Mango Bay of Koh Tao. It is in Mango Bay we have splendid snorkeling moment despite it is rather short, 1hr 30min. The boat parked at the left side of the bay behind the line of yellow floater marking the protection zone for corals.

Tip: The boat has very small toilet, so it is better to put on the swim wear before the trip.

It was my second snorkeling trip after Pulau Payar trip. The sea was calm that day and perfectly conducive avenue for snorkeling. Yes, coral here is very much better than that in Pulau Payar. However, Pulau Payah has much better variety of fish. According to others that have been to Pulau Redang, our island gem back home is way much better. Alright, next year, I would like to go Pulau Redang for snorkeling trip. Perhaps, I should even consider getting diving license.

Corals closer to the rocks area outside the protection zone are much nicer. Among the unique corals are a huge white "Ling Zhi" coral that spans approximately 4-5 feet, green-leafy bonsai-like coral and white cocoon-like coral. More common ones are white multi-spoke coral. Haha.. I am not coral expert so I cannot correctly name them. I wonder someone who studies microbiology can help me? :p

Personally, I feel that coral reef here lacks the variety and colour. Well, I enjoyed more of swimming freely without safety jacket but not for long though because it is rather tiring... haha...

Inspired by those dare-devils that dived from the top of the boat, I tried diving from the boat instead and it was really bad idea. I almost lost my goggles because of straps are not tight enough. Struggling to readjust my goggles, salty sea water was sipped in accidentally causing my throat to feel thirsty. Yeah, I must admit that I am not really good in avoiding myself from drinking sea water and I don't know why. Probably because of drinking sea water will make me wiser..... haha. But, I am not all wise also... haha... Luckily, fresh waters were provided to quench my thirst. Towards the end of the snorkeling, being too exhausted trying to keep myself afloat, I finally gave in and grabbed myself a safety jacket and reentered the water.

Left: We took the right Catamaran
Right: Posing on the upper deck with all sun-block applied

Creative works of Sing King. Simply awesome

Left: Bhoput Fish Village with long white beach
Right: Fellowship of the toes

Left: Enjoying sea breeze during the ride
Right: Missed cupid arrow from Koh Nang Yuan

At about 12:30pm, we got back to boat after 90-minute of snorkeling and sun burn. As the boat was on her way back to Koh Nang Yuan, we have a casual conversation with a German lady and knew that it was her 6th visit to Thailand. She was with her boy who was having 6 weeks of summer holiday now. Asked about whether she has been to Malaysia, she said no and politely explains that that Thailand gave her more peace of mind. I guess more need to be done in revamping Malaysia to be more appealing to western world.

Koh Nang Yuan is a private island under loan from Ministry of Finance. To preserve its cleanliness, plastic bottles and cans are prohibited to be brought inside the island. As soon as we arrived at Nang Yuan restaurant the buffet lunch had started. Guests were lining up getting food to fill the hungry stomach. We got ourselves a table for six under a tree having a great view of the long beach. Buffet food here is not refilled after it is finished, unluckily, for some of us that could not get enough to bite. A little bit of downside is the food served were mainly vegetables and stingy servings of tempura squids and fish fillet and fish balls in green curry. Salad suits me well as I am preparing myself for December run. Worst of all is that once the fresh water is finished, there is no refill. [Grumbling..... ]

As I was disappointed walking back to my seat without fresh water, I saw green young coconuts. I knew that it is going to cost a boom here, 80 Baht, but I got myself a young cocount anyway. It is my aim to have coconut drink by the beach. So, got to fulfill it right? Hehe.. As I sipped in my first mouth of chilled fresh coconut water, being very playful, I asserted "Heavenly". Pandan taste? Haha.. I don't really know... but I think there is.. hehe... Soon, I realized drinking coconut drink is contagious and Yen Ping can't resist the temptation and got herself one coconut ....:P

My coconut drink with perfect Nang Yuan beach view.

My salad lunch at Nang Yuan Restaurant

Next our table, it is the hut that rents diving equipment. Koh Nang Yuan has PADI course too. So, anybody want to get diving license? After we were done lunching, we strolled along the white beach and eventually climbed up the island hill on the left. The ascent to the peak took a approximately 10-minute and it was not challenging because proper staircase and route has been laid except at the peak. Bird-viewing Nang Yuan beach from the peak is simply breathtaking. However, care must be taken especially at the peak because it is dangerous as there is no fence at the observatory. My clock showed 2:15pm when I checked it at the peak. As much as we enjoy the view of Koh Nang Yuan and Koh Tao from the peak, we could not afford more time up at the peak because we have to gather back at the restaurant by 2:45pm.

Left: Serenity in sea
Right: coral collecting is strictly prohibited here

Left: Sunbathing on catamaran
Right: Kayaking at 100Baht per hour is offered too.

Left: Notice board claiming ownership of Nang Yuan Island
Right: Boats cruising pass Koh Nang Yuan

There is walkway surrounding the isle of Koh Nang Yuan.

Views from Koh Nang Yuan Peak

Nice shot of Nang Yuan. Thanks YP.

As the catamaran approached the jetty, we out-walked other passengers that still waits in the restaurant. This guarantees us seats in the lower deck which is air-conditioned. As the catamaran left Koh Nang Yuan and headed back to Koh Samui, we were already too exhausted and most of us were taking nap...

At about 5:00pm, we reached Bhoput beach. As soon as we alighted from the catamaran, we were offered souvenir plate with our candid personal photo taken at the terminal when we boarded the catamaran in the morning. If I remembered it correctly, the souvenir plate is at 100Baht. I couldn't find mine so I gave it a pass. Sob sob..

Dinner at Lamai Road
We reached Varinda resort around 6pm and took a rest before went out to grab a bite at Lamai Beach. From yesterday, we already knew that we wanted to try hawker food at the centre of Lamai beach road. It is close to McDonald and just besides Family Mart. Yeah!!! I found a stall that sells authentic Pad Thai with seafood. In fact, I asked for more beansprout and spring onion hehe. I also got myself a cup of mango ice-blended shake for 20Baht. The shake is simply reviving after a hot scorching snorkeling trip.

Pad Thai with seafood (50Baht)

Fresh seafood for Pad Thai. Yummy...

Among other foods that we ordered are Tom Yum Seafood, fried chicken and Indian pancake (something like roti canai). However, the hotdog stall in front of 7 Eleven opposite the hawker stalls excites me. Thanks to Agnes for pointing it out... After enjoying my Pad Thai, I ordered Hot Dog with Thai sweet-spicy souce and continued to tempt my fellow friends. Haha.. however none of them found the hot dog as tasty as it was imagined except the sour-pork. Haha.. I think I falsely gave them high expectation as I kept on speaking about it since the first day. Haha.....

Cocktail drink by the beachside
Similarly the second night was spent on shopping along Lamai Beach Road and ended with a relaxing cocktail drinking session by the beachside. I ordered Pinacolada without knowing what I am going to get. I simply ordered it because it sounds nice. Haha..and it comes out good also. Sing King ordered Virgin Mary that was served in the same sexy glass a night before.

Koh Samui Trip Day 1: Lamai Beach

2007-08-15T22:11:00.001+08:00

A blissful trip to Koh Samui
Friday 10th Aug 2007.
Some of the photos published here are courtesy of limsingking.multiply.com
Fireflying into Koh Samui from Penang was generally a pleasant 1hour 10min flight. My mind was full of curiosity on the surprises this island can offer after heard much about it for months. Unlike any of my other trips where I would do much research before hand, this trip was 180-degree different where I didn’t involve in any planning or booking. Thanks to my good friends Agnes and Kooi Sim who took care of them, really appreciate it!!! All I did was just glancing through some of the beautiful photos of Koh Samui embedded in wordy Thailand travel guides and imagining myself relaxing by the white sandy beach heavens in Thailand. Frankly, I didn't have any clue of what has been installed and could not even pronounce the name of some of the isles around Koh Samui properly. All I know is that these isles start with Koh, i.e.,island in Thais. :P

Yes, it was also my first experience with the “Malaysia’s first community airline”. The only thumb-up that I have is the seating that is arranged on first come first served basis. Similarly to “Now everyone can fly”, flight delay is a norm adn there is no exception this day. In term of the design of costume and in-flight interior, Air Asia clearly outshines Firefly, my personal thought.

Geography

Now that I am back after my trip, my back-packing nerves stimulate me to locate Koh Samui, Koh Tao, Koh Nang Yuan, Koh Phangan and Ang Thong Marine Park by using Google map. Alright, Koh Samui is one of the biggest island in the southern Thais archipelago islands, north-west of Surat Thani. In fact, Koh Samui is the 3rd largest island in Thailand after Phuket. Pattaya is the largest island. Ghee.. I only know this after the trip. It is approximately 240km-square in area, slightly smaller than Penang.

Before Koh Samui was renowned as one of the hot tourist spots in Thailand, the island’s economy relies mainly on coconuts export. As Firefly was slowly touching down, coconut trees were visible everywhere, scattered around the island. In fact, many are standing gracefully among the newly built seaview mansions on the northern hill of the island.

Left: Koh Samui from Penang
Right: Main spots in Koh Samui Island

Koh Samui International Air port
After we alighted from Firefly FY3602, airport coaches were waiting beside the plane to chauffeur passengers to the resort-like international airport. Yes, the airport is a collection of atap-roofed huts with lotus pond seperating the arrival and departure halls. Right before the checkpoint, exquisitely printed travel maps and guides were available free of charge. Yes, I will rank Koh Samui brochures the best that I have ever collected. The printing, details and even the paper quality are surely of top notch standard, in fact, superior than typical wedding invitation cards that we commonly receive. :P At around 5pm, we were on our way to Varinda Resort in a huge Nissan taxi-van that zoomed through villages and eventually small town.

Left: FY3602 (Fokker 50) from Penang to Koh Samui
Right: Departure hall taken from the arrival hall with lotus pond as the divider.

Airport coach

Varinda Resort

The journey from airport to Varinda Resort provided a 30-min sneak preview of Koh Samui covering the booming town behind Chaweng beach and glimpses of Chaweng and Lamai Beaches from the top of island cliff seperating between the two famous beaches. Towards the end of Lamai Beach, the chartered taxi took a left turn and ramped up slowly entering a cozy hill-side resort - Varinda Resort. Although it is not a posh beach-side resort, Varinda Resort offers a more precious element to me - the sense of being at home - that is much sought after personally. Yeah, I will talk more about this nice and beautiful resort in my coming blog entry. A quick snapshots of the resort are as follow:

Left: Varinda Resort Garden
Right: Room 9 with 3 comfy beds. I took the single bed. :P

A casual walk down Lamai Beach and food please !!!!
Staying on the hilly end of Lamai Beach, we have to take a small route that connects us to the beach road. It is just 5-10 minute walk to reach the southern part of the Lamai touristy beach road. Massage parlours, bars and pubs, souvenir outlets are ubiquitous along the road. Soon, we came across a small local Thais restaurant. Yes, we were a bunch of youngsters crazy about Thai food but never really satisfied until our last meal in Koh Samui... tell you more in my last blog about Koh Samui. I am, particually, all eyes watching out for Phat Tai and Thai Sausage. I heard about Thai sausage from Velse. So, a must try for me. The smell of the cooking from this small restaurant teased our stomach where we unfortunately succumbed to its temptation.

One plate of Pad Thai (Fried Kuih Teow) with chicken, another Phat Tai with prawn, Panang Curry Pork, Mixed fried vegetables with seafood, Fried jelly noddle (Tong Fen) with squids, couple of carbonated drinks and a young coconut drinks summoned 350Baht.

It was a total disappoinment to me when the two plates of Pad Thai were served. Phat Tai without crunched peanut, fresh beansprouts and spring onion cuts? No way it is Pad Thai. In fact, it tasted rather "yucky" compared to the many Pad Thai servings that I had before. Panang Curry Pork was no doubt much tastier than the rest of the orders, a consolation for me. :P The spiceness is equivalent to Nando's hot peri-peri. Hehe, of course it does not taste like peri-peri.... :P

Happily posting for our first meal in Koh Samui

Pad Thai??.... no way. More like Malay Fried Kuih Teow to me..

After sampling some Thai food, I will not use savouring here ... why?... read more... we headed towards the second longest beach in Koh Samui, Lamai Beach. As we were approaching the white sandy beach, from afar I could hear the loud and strong Lamai waves welcoming us warmly with an occasional soothing breeze embracing us, comforting us after the scorching hot arrival at the airport. Personally, it feels peacefully relax and tranquillizing to be finally here after completing the tormenting project. Simply heaven. Photos were taken along the beach area as we strolled northward from Golden Sand Beach Resort to Thai House Beach Resort passing by beach-side restaurants with tempting spread of seafood display.

Left: Southern part of Lamai Beach road
Right: Golden Sand Beach Resort

Group photos taken along Lamai Beach

Left: Far reaching white Lamai waves

Right: Fuiyo.. Home of Miss Samui Bikini

Left: Me at Lamai Beach
Mid: A dog lazing on the soft beach
Right: Seafood restaurant menu board
(My favorite photo. Good job Sing King!!!)

Seafood Buffet Dinner at Thai House Beach Resort
At the northern end of Lamai Beach, we were approached by Thai House Beach Resort manager offering us a savour of seafood buffet dinner by the beach at 690Baht per pax. The temptation grew when we learned that the BBQ section serves a good choice of seafood including rock lobster, juicy tiger prawn and freshly roasted muscles, squids, chicken and beef kebab with pineapple and pepper slices. Besides, the buffet has a generously laid fruits station, a standard choice of cooked dishes including baked salmon in lemon source, stewed beer with mushroom, mixed vegetables, green curry chicken and etc. In the salad station, hidden gems of smoked salmon were served along with ham and sliced sausages. The smoked salmon really made the ladies excited when the gems were discovered. Virtually, all of the smoked salmon rolls were wiped by you know who.... :P

As we dined with much less chit-chat because everyone seems really busy "dining" to ensure 690Baht is worth the value, time tick-tocked towards 8pm when live performance of Polynesia cultural show commenced. It started with a much upbeat dance where Thai ladies dressed up in Tahitian grass skirts with coconut shell top and topless male. After the opening dance, the shows became dull where topless male performers in different size (thin, fat, tall & short - what a good spread of human size... :P) were performing Polynesia warrior dance. Love song singing and some other cultural shows were followed next... the poor sound system further degenerated my focus on the show... so I did another round of scouting for smoked salmons. Hehe.. luck is with me...

Well... the ladies liked the salmon so much but too shy to "sapu" and were at one point of time grousing about the smoked salmon rolls not being refilled yet...... So, let the man do the gentleman got to do: Like a prey scouting for salmons, multiple trips were made to the salad station for such purpose. In the midst of the cultural show while other resort guests stay-tuned on the performance, the man virtually "smuggled" all the newly refilled smoked salmons. :P

The finale of the show was fire torch spinning acrobat which was really good. Big hands from me as I tried to take photos of these acrobatic performers but in vain. Luckily, our official group photographer, Sing King, did a good job then. Double thumb-up!!!

So, our original plan to just find a cozy beach-side area for a drink turned out to be a sumptuous savour of seafood buffet with entertaining performance. Something that I would recommend you to do when you are in Lamai Beach. A downside of having buffet dinner here is that it didn't come with any drink at all. A glass of lemon juice is at 70baht. If you fancy live music, I would recommend the buffet dinner next to ours. The male singer's voice is really good, welly accompanied with guitar pluckings. At one point, I was hymming and singing along with the performer on Country Road, a song that I love very much for years..... la la la...

We were satisfied after many rounds ... guess who eat the most?

Left: Fire torch spinning show
Right: Opening Dance Tahitian ladies in coconut shell top.

Sexy cocktail

Before we headed back to rest for the tomorrow snorkeling trip in Koh Tao & Koh Nang Yuan, shopping came naturally after a much fulfilling meal. Well, the souvenirs sold in Koh Samui are pretty standard. The only souvenirs that really drew my attention are the scented flower curved out of Palmolive soap, probably is is standard souvenirs that I overlooked last time I came to Thailand.

A vast variety of Scented Soap Flowers (80-200Baht)

Koh Samui... I am going now...

2007-08-10T11:51:00.000+08:00

Koh Samui

In a while more I will be heading Koh Samui with 7 friends by taking Firefly propeller air plane. I can already feel the sea breeze and the white sandy beaches awaiting us...

Best of all, authentic Thai food and not forgetting buying a fresh coconut and lying down by the beach enjoying the scenic horizon where blue sky joins ocean. Yeah!!!

Varinda Garden Resort is the hotel that we are going to stay. It is on hilly side of Lamai beach with excellent view of the Lamai Beach coastline. Great!!!!

Check out my soon-to-published wonderful moment in Koh Samui. Tata.... ;)

Akihabara: City of Anime, Manga & Electronics..

2007-07-21T22:15:00.001+08:00

Akihabara, Tokyo
I am not a big Japanese manga or anime fan.... But, ever since I watched Death Note and then followed its anime series on youtube, my interest towards Japanese anime slowly flourishes. :) What could be more complete than to be at the center of Japanese anime culture - Akihabara. I never could believe that anime drawing is an academic discipline until I visited UDX myself. Definitely an enlightenment for me.

Yeah, anime is a culture so deeply rooted into Japanese society where almost certainly ones could see not only youngsters but working adults grabbing a copy of manga while commuting in metro train. Perhaps, such culture is no less gaining popularity locally where Japanese anime is still hot for decades amidst the raise of Korean series and movie over couple of years in Asia. At UDX Tokyo Anime Centre the cute blue Doraemon really drew my attention as anime clips where goodies are drawn out from the tiny front pocket flash in my mind. Yeah!!!

Left: UDX, Akihabara: Akihabara 3D Theathre Studio
Right: Tokyo Anime Center, Akihabara

Doraemon is so cute!!! :)

Both: Original drafts of Doraemon

Both: Anime & Manga Shops in Akihabara

Left: Manga Can food Right: Manga Models

Akihabara is not just about anime or manga. In fact, Akihabara has been increasingly gaining fame as the hub of electronics gadget. Its landmark building would be Yodobashi-Akiba. Yodobashi is mega electronics chain in Japan. The multi-storey building houses a vast range of electronics products from the latest laptop model to the trendiest mp4 player, from the biggest LCD screens to the sleekest PDA phone. A visit to Yodobashi may take hours for electronics geeks as ones be completely blown away with the vast variety and features offered there. Besides UDX & Yodobashi, streets around Akihabara are lined up with shops and mega malls selling manga & electronics shop. Japanese manga models could be seen posting at store front promoting the release of the latest manga.

Left: Yodobashi-Akihabara Right: Inside Yodobashi

The burstling Akihabara Electronics and Manga street

What an excellent experience that I gained here even though it is a mere 1.5 hours tour. Yeah, it is a free Akihabara walking tour hosted by Japanese Tourism board during "Yokoso Japan" which means "Welcome to Japan". Best of all, the tour crowd is small and the tour lead is a nice Chinese lady that explains to clearly making every effort to make feel at home. Thank You very much!

Oh ya, the tour comes with free lucky draw of free lunch meal in UDX centre and since there are only 4 of us, one ticket lands at each side of the group. The kind Philipines couple are willing to give them to us. Thank you so much. But, we didn't have a chance to enjoy it because we were leaving the next day so we gave them to Ji Kong a friend that works in Tokyo.

Left: Group photo at the end of the tour.
Right: Stanley & me at Akihabara Tour counter

Hong Kong Peak

2007-06-05T22:40:00.000+08:00

Hong Kong Victoria Peak 香港太平山
How can a visit to Hong Kong without Victoria Peak be complete? Yes, it is the top 5 tourist spots in Hong Kong and every year millions of people have paid this peak a visit. Not for its height because it is merely 400 metres but for its magnificient panoramic view of Hong Kong sky scrappers.

How to get there? Take J2 Exit at Central Station and walk along Garden Road between The Bank of China building and The Cheung Kong Centre. Peak Tram Lower Terminus is just after St. John Cathedral. I will let the map I captured from Google be your guide. :)

The tram ride has the steepest gradient at 27 degree from horizontal. It is a two-way reverse funicular system with 1365metres track. The fare is HK$33 for adult and HK$15 for children. If you plan to visit Madame Taussaud's Wax Museum, the ticketing booth is at the Peak Tram Lower Terminus.

The journey for Alex and me to Victoria Peak was great with a little disappointment and an unexpected encounter. From the lower terminus, around 7:00pm, with a heart full of excitement we took the tram ride that brought us to the peak in ~8minutes. The tram cut through forest area with beautiful condominiums by the foot hill and beautiful view of Hong Kong Island slowly became visible on the right side as the tram ascends to the upper terminus. The beautiful scenes of the 8:30pm musical laser show at Victoria Harbour were fresh in my mind. Yes, it is for this reason that we decided to go up to the peak before the 8:30pm show start.

As the tram arrived at the Peak Terminus, the cold winter at the peak became even colder. Shivering am I inside that I quickly found the heated terminus cum shopping mall welcoming. With no plan for shopping or dining, we proceeded to the top floor where the open-air observatory is. The strong wind was the real challenge that we had to withstand to grab a good position in the observatory to snap panoramic photos of the Hong Kong Island and Kowloon. Check them out ...

Peak Tram

Call me Boon. Elvin, Boon. Ha ha ha :P

As the long hand ticks towards 8:30pm, the laser show started with synchronized running lights across the city buildings and laser beams directed towards the sky. However, the peak was definitely not the best place to enjoy the laser show. I was disappointed but somewhat hang around the peak to capture those beautiful Hong Kong night views, not in the camera memory stick but my mind. So, this is the blow that disappoints me ......

However..................

Presenting a couple that we met at the peak. They were trying to take a couple photo of the night view but their camera couldn't produce any good snap. My brother was besides them and offered to help. After some exchange of words, we came to realize that they are Malaysian. Isaac is from Prai and May is from Sg. Siput which is very near my hometown. Breaking through being just acquanitances, four-of-us headed to Mongkok for steamboat and eventually they paid us a visit during recent 2007 CNY. This is what I mean by unexpected encounter and we gained new friendship at the Hong Kong peak.

The lovely friendly couple - May & Isaac

Let's Go Ocean Park

2007-05-15T23:13:00.000+08:00

香港海洋公园 (Ocean Park Hong Kong)

Finally, I manage to steal some time out from my ever-busy working life to prepare this entry on Hong Kong Ocean Park. It is also an amounting pressure in me since I have promised to write up about this place for a friend who is travelling to HK this June. So, better prepare this entry or else I will get a "punch" on the face. Haha....

I guess Hong Kong Ocean Park is not an unfamiliar name for a lot of us in Malaysia who follow Hong Kong series since young. From TV, I always have the impression that it is a place packed with thrill and, a place synonymous to Disneyland in the west. So wonder what I think about this place? Read on...

Firstly, a little bit on the geography of the place. Check out those cool satellite images (from Google) of the park. In these photos I have marked out the entrance of the park, the tallest escalators in Asia and the cable track linking the main entrance to the headland. Ocean Park is situated on southern part of Hong Kong island and it has two entrances - Main Entrance (near the exit of Aberdeen Tunnel) and Tai Shue Wan Entrance (along Shum Wan Road). Ocean Park consists of two regions - Headland and Lowland Parks. Lowland park is right after Main Entrance and cablecars are the available way to commute to Headland Park. From Tai Shue Wan Entrance to Headland Park, there are the tallest escalators in Asia. Free shuttles between Main Entrance and Tai Shue Wan Entrance are provided too. In a while more I am going to give you tips on how to avoid congestion in the Park.... read on.. :)

Ocean Park is at southern part of Hong Kong Island

Left: Ocean Park has two entrances. Cable track between Main entrance and headland
Right: 4 escalators connecting Tai Shue Wan entrance to headland

Secondly, how to get there? The best way is to board on a double-decker Citybus from Admiralty Ocean Park bus stop. From the Admiralty subway station, follow the Ocean Park sign to go to bus station. Since the park opens daily at 10am, expect to have people start lining up as early as 9am. But, if you are planning to go to Ocean Park during weekday, I recommend 930am.

At the bus station, there are ocean park ticketing booths which are usually full of people. For the 10% discount coupon that we collected from airport (to know more where to get this coupon read my entry at http://elvinongbl.blogspot.com/2007/01/hong-kong-christmas-2006-part-1.html), we have to buy our tickets at the ocean park which turned out to be a good thing because we can go straight to the bus queue and there is no long queue in the ticketing booth at ocean park. Haha...

The Citybus brought us to the Tai Shue Wan Entrance in about 35min and we arrived at the park at about 11am. When I visited Ocean Park last 2006, Ocean Park set up special spots such as Eskimo Escapade, Santa's house, Christmas Tree Lighting, Sponge Cannon, Jumping Hamburger as Christmas was around. The highlight of 2006 Ocean Park Christmas extravanganza was the "Spellbound on Ice" show where great performances were put up by ice skaters, magicians and acrobats. I could still remember am awesome show where a strong man was fast spinning a roughly 3x3-meter pyramid-shape metal bars with one of his strong arms. On another instant, while the pyramid was fast spinning up on the air, he somersaulted himself and caught the pyramid later. By the time the show finished, it was about 12:30pm.

Left: Artificial Igloo Right: Wo hoooo.... Eskimoos

We have a quick lunch near the Santa's house before heading towards the Flamingo Pond. The lunch was so-so and pricy. I suggest food stall near the Atoll Reef though. Around the Tai Shue Wan entrance were a mini Flamingo Pond and aviary enclosed with a big canopy-like net. Frankly, only the pink-legged Flamingos were interesting.

Left: Cute duckling in Aviary Right: I am always amazed by Flamingos

We took the escalators to connect to the Headland Park. Raging Water Ride sign draws my brother's attention where he suggested a detour to try out the ride. The ride was relaxing in the beginning where the timber-shaped boat strolled along artificial, raging river. The finale of the ride is the sudden descent of ~10-meter down the abyss where water was splashed up and wet us when the boat hit the valley of the descent. It was short and sweet ride. Next to the raging river is the Space Wheel where it is not suitable chicken-hearted ones. Dare to try? Check out the following photos where space shuttles are revolving in high speed around the 70 degree tilted plane.

Left: Raging River Entrance Right: Timber-shaped boat

Super-duper Space Wheel

Left: 70 degree tilted Space Wheel.
Right: It is tiring standing and waiting to reach the other end of the tallest escalator. :P

After raging river ride, we continued our journey to Headland Park. At the end of second escalator is Mine Train ride. The queue was too long so we gave it a pass after all the priority is the Dolphine show. From the platform after the escalator, presenting in front of us is a superb view of southern Hong Kong Island where yatches were parked behind Ap Lei Chau. It was a perfect spot for photography as the miner train vroomed down the track on the left with great view of the island on the right. In fact, this ride is most challenging one because it sits on a hill with jungle underneath and sea just beside it. Add that with winter breeze, it makes the small chicken heart even smaller....

Left: Miner Train Right: Miner Train from Ocean Park Towel

Left: Ap Lei Chau Island
Right: Miner train track and scenic view of HK Island

We continued our journey up via two more escalators and soon we arrived at Pacific Pier. There is a mini watch-tower overseeing the East Lamma Channel. Sea lions and seals were the attraction in the pier. Unfortunately, the underwater gallery to see how the animals showing-off their swimming skills was under renovation.

Headland Theme Park from Pacific Pier

The Abys is the landmark challenge here..

Slightly down the hill from the pier along the broadwalk is the Ocean Park Tower. It is worth the wait to even though there is long queue and the tower does not look too appealing. It is a good chance for lots of photographs from the slow-revolving tower which offers bird-view angle of Ocean Park. From the tower, the Ocean Theathre where the intelligent and graceful dolphines and playful sea lions put up fun show daily

Marine Land
Marine Land consists of Atoll Reef, Shark Aquarium, Sea Jelly Aquarium and Ocean Theathre. Marine Land is my favorite and I totally let myself be mesmerized by the mysterious underwater world presented in these spots. Walking down the Broadway from Pacific Pier, the marine spots are located in following sequence: Ocean Theathre, Sea Jelly Aquarium at the cable car centre, Shark Aquarium, and Atoll Reef just at the entrance to theme park.

Atoll Reef
Atoll Reef centre has a huge 3-stories, cone-shaped seawater aquarium as the centre-stage of the building with walkway and staircases around the aquarium as you walk down each level. It is prohibited to use camera flash in this aquarium which makes taking quality photos very challenging. So, I let the expert (my bro) handles the shooting while I completely find fun busy finding nemo and checking out his other friends in the aquarium. Ke ke..

The cool thing visiting Atoll Reef during 2006 Christmas time was the opportunity to see Santa Clause swimming in the water together with the fishes feeding them from his goodie beg. Cool huh? The staff is creative!!!

Finding Nemo... so many of them. Which one?

Left: Hairy Sea Jelly.
Right: The open aquarium in Atoll Reef with
extensive collection of sea creatures

Ocean Theathre
Be aware of the Ocean Theathre schedule (Mon-Thur=3:30pm & 5:00pm Fri-Sun= 11:30am, 3:30pm & 5:00pm) and by all mean you should grab a nice seat 30 minutes before the 3:30pm show starts. Th crowds are out-of-control and competitive especially the 3:30pm show. So why then 3:30pm and not 5:00pm show?

Tip: This is important, to connect to Main Entrance, there are only cable cars and the park closes at 6:30pm. So, when the 5:00pm show finishes, there will be a long queue of people at the cable car station. You definitely want to avoid that by going to the 3:30pm show, then have fun ride from 4:00-5:15pm and still beat the crowds at the cable car before the 5:30pm. Got it? ;)

The show lasts for about 30 minutes. Before the speedy dolphines fly out from the surface of the water to greet the spectators, there is usually a band to warm the spectators up. If you have tripod, by all mean, set it up so that you can snap snap snap snap.... hahaha.... I will let the following pictures entice you ......

Left: Ocean Theathre from Tower Right: The Ocean Park Band

Left: Dolphines dancing on the water. Right: Flying dolphines

Left: Dolphines landing on the platform
Right: Sea Lion rescuing a drown life-guard

Left: Sea lion tapping the back to clear choke
Right: Let's give a thank you kiss for the hero

Sea Jelly Aquarium
Sea Jelly Aquarium is a rather small aquarium situated below cable car station. Despite its small size, it is worth a visit. The aquarium takes a slightly different concept from Atoll Reef. It is dark with colourful flourescent lights illumimating the gracefully dancing sea jelly fish of various size. The lighting simply works best with background music.

Enchanting sea jelly being illuminated with different colours

Small Japense Garden
Japenese Garden is located next to Shark Aquarium. It was a small garden with a small tea house and Japanese Koi pond. It is so-so only. So, a quick snap snap and continue with your journey. ;)

Left: Japanese Painiting
Right: My hungry brither can bite any food (even model)

Me pretending sampling some japanese soup

Headland Theme Park
Headland Theme Park presents 6 rides and only two are really challenging - The Dragon roller-coaster and The Abyss (20-storey twin-tower). Although the Dragon ride queue was long, the waiting time was about 15 mins. It was much more challenging compared to Corkscrew ride of Genting Highlight. The Abyss is like Solero Shot of Genting Highlight but it is much taller and two towers. :)

Something that I miss out in Ocean Park
As we couldn't get a seat in Ocean Theathre for 3:30pm, we have no choice but to go for the 5:00pm. When the show ended, the long queue at the cable car station prohibits us from accessing to Lowland. What a blow for us as we were coming from the Tai Shue Wan entrance. So, we have to backtrack from Headland to Tai Shue Wan entrance. :(

So, based on the map I gotten and some little research I have done on Ocean Park website, I would recommend the following spots in the Lowland if you enter the park from the main entrance:

Whiskers Theathre: Live performance of sea lions.
Giant Panda Habitat: Up-close experience with Panda.

Unless you are bringing small kids to Ocean Park, you would like to skip all the rides in Lowland because they are Kids' ride. :P

Recommended Itinerary and Route
10:00am - Enter from Tai Shue Wan entrance.
10:10am - Check out the Flamingos Pond and proceeds to escalators
10:20am - Stop over for Raging Water or Space Wheel ride
11:00am - Proceed to Mine Train ride
12:00am - Stop-over at Pacific Pier and then take Ocean Park Tower ride
12:30pm - visit Shark, Sea Jelly and Atoll Reef Aquariums and have lunch in front of Atoll Reef.
3:00pm - Ocean Theathre (grab seat 20-30min before 3:30pm show)
4:00pm - The Dragon or The Abyss ride
5:15pm - Take cable car to Lowland.
5:45pm - Giant Panda Habitat
6:00pm - Stroll around Lowland spots before exit.

Disclaimer: Show schedule may change over time. Always pick up park leaflet at the entrance and refer to it to plan out your journey in the park.

Day at the British Museum

2007-05-05T00:00:00.000+08:00

Are you fond in visiting museum? No? Even after watching the laughter packed "Night at the Museum" acted by Ben Stiller? I guess being Malaysian, we are too busy in working in office or busy window-shopping in malls. Sadly but truly, as adult we are inclined to not appreciating the culture, artifacts, stories and legacy of the living of modern day and the dead in ancient time. When is the last time you pay a visit to a museum? I guess for most of us it would be during the museum trip in our secondary school era.

Alright, I guess my passion to visit museum and spend hours appreciating the exhibits is rekindled during my stay in London. In fact, close to Imperial College, there are 3 museums - Science Museum, Natural History Museum and Victoria & Albert Art Museum. But in this entry, I would like to talk about the famous British Museum that I made two seperate trips.

Location
The easiest way to reach the British Museum is by taking the tube to Tottenham Court Road and walk along New Oxford Street and make a left turn at Coptic Street into Great Russell Street. I have used Goggle Map to locate British Museum for my blog reader. See, I treat you so nice... so.. leave some comment here. ;)

Left: British Museum is in West-end London.
Right: Satallite Image of the British Museum.

The entrance
The Roman-Greek pillars and triangle roof-top at the entrance to British Museum is a famous spot for photograph. To know about the history and the details of British Museum, see wikipedia entry http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/British_Museum. In fact, the British Museum is free since 1753 and has an extensive collection of human cultural history. Most of the collections are "obtained" during the great Victoria Era where there is sunlight all day long in one part of her extensive colonies. Even though it is free, at the entrance there is donation boxes for generous visitors. So, are you generous tourist? Hehehe....

Left: Late winter visit to British Museum
Right: British Museum entrance with roman-greek pillars.

Paul Hamlyn Library
At the centre of the museum is the awesome Paul Hamlyn Library with 20-25,000 books and journals from a wide range of subject-matter that are meant to educate the visitors on the exhibits of the museum. The books are never allowed to be borrowed out and can only referenced during its opening time. Walking into this museum would surely amaze you with the way these collection of books are systematically arranged on the multi-tiers bookshelves in-built around the walls. Check out the photos I took below:

Left: Bookshelves circumfering the round library
Right:The bookshelves are multi-tiers

Ancient Egyptian
British Museum has the most extensive collection of ancient Egyptian artifacts outside of Cairo, Egypt. In my opinion, except the great pyramid of Gaza and Sphinx, British Museum has it all.

What could be more interesting than trying to decipher the language scripts crafted on the Rosetta Stone in hieroglyphic, demotic and ancient Greek? The text on the stone is actually a decree from Ptolemy V (Egypt King) instructing the erection of statues in temples and repealling of various taxes. See wikipedia entry at http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Rosetta_Stone.

Left: Rosseta Stone Right: Statue of Ramesses II

Man-horse statues guarding the entrance to Egypt Collection

Ancient Egytian Wall Painting

Still remember the Mummy Return? British Museum is the place to go if you are keen in understanding the burial ceremony of Egytian Royalty. The artifacts displayed here are simply excellent beyong words though it is an irony to find such extensive collection outside Egypt. Well, personally, a slow stroll around the showcases are informative as well as eye-opener. The procedures and techniques used in mummification awed me in many ways.

African Art
Being the first time to expose myself to African art, I found them amazingly creative despite the level of high illiteracy in the continent. Among the many artworks displayed, the "arm chair" drew the most attention out of me. I could understand the meaning behind - "Guns are so common in African until there are spare ones sufficient to make warlord's chair". Surely, many scenes of bloody scenes flash in my mind ... Blood Diamond ...

Misc
Sadly, not many photos were taken during my trip to British Museum as I was too engrossed in reading the description of each exhibit. Ha ha ... believe me ? ;)

Left: A mixture of ultra-modern roof and roman facade
Right: The dish thrower

Let's meet the Seven Sisters

2007-04-26T21:11:00.000+08:00

23rd May 2004, we met the famous Seven Sisters.

From Victoria Coach Station, we boarded an early National Express coach to a sea-front city at the southern area of England called Brighton. The journey was about 2 hours with a stop-over at Gatwick Airport. Wonder where Brighton is? Click on this cool map that I got it from yahoo map.

The moment we alighted from the bus, we were greeted with soothing, fresh sea breeze. The late autumn May weather was sunny but nice as the temperature is merely 20 degree. Let's put on my sunglasses and head towards the famous Brighton Pier, a sea-front entertainment hub that extends towards the English Channel. The pier has lots to offer as a good weekend family outing destination for both kids and parents. For the dare-devils, why not take the thrilling Booster roller coaster ride that swings you over the edge of the pier with deep sea underneath. Along the Brighton seafront is no white sand beach but long conglomerate of small and big stones shore!!! Something unique for Malaysian who has been used to white sandy beaches. In fact, posting for photo session on these stones is actually not easy. :) They are hot!!!

Right & Left: Brighton and Seven Sisters Map

Left: Brighton Pier Right: Brighton Stone Seafront

23rd May 2004 is Sunday. Yeah!!! Let's pay the local churches a visit. On my way to St Joseph's Church, I passed by a very beautiful Baptist Church with facade in Gloucestor Place, the center of Brighton. In St. Joseph, I attended a morning mass together with the brits who patronize the church weekly. In fact, I enjoy visiting churches in England for their different era of architecture outlook, interior and paintings depicts important events in christian faith.

Left: Gloucester Place Baptist Church
Right: St Joseph Catholic Church, Elm Grove

Seven Sisters
From Brighton city, we took a local bus towards the Birling Gap some 40min away. The bus warped through multiple suburbs in East Sussex between Seaford and Eastbourne. Seven Sisters Chalk Cliffs are in Seven Sisters Country Park and are a famous spot for sun-bathing among the brits there.

To preserve the natural beauty of the cliffs, no fence is put up. In fact, the chalk cliffs are corroded yearly bit-by-bit by the waves and acidic rains. At the end of Birling Gap, there is a lighthouse called Belle Tout Lighthouse which is the leading light for sealiners cruising along the English Channel.

From the Birling Gap, there is a tower allowing visitors to go down to stone beach along the Seven Sisters Cliffs. Taking photos from the tower with the long stretching white chalk cliffs are simply breathtaking. I will let the pictures speak for themselves... :)

Left: Elderwise can be seen everywhere
Right: Window wallpaper? Seven Sisters Country Park

Left: Seven Sisters Cliffs from tower
Right: White chalk cliffs with stony beach

Left: My legs are shaking to go that near to the cliff
Right: Cliff Edge marking the end of Seven Sisters Cliffs

No fence and be careful. Point of no return mate!!!!

Left: Sunbathing with the gorgeous seven sisters upside-down
Right: The sky's the limit? Try reaching the tip of the cliff? :P

Left: Sunbathing in Seven Sisters are common here. Not for me of course.
Right:Taking a photo of the cliff that falls to the sea at this angle requires gut!!

Left: Belle Tout Lighthouse at Beachy Head. Nice huh?
Right: Sunbathing anybody? How about BBQ?

Finally, after a scenic and enjoyable trip to Seven Sisters (Peak: Haven Brow, Short Brow, Rought Brow, Brass Brow, Flagstaff Brow, Flat Hill, Baily's Hill and Went Hill Brow), we headed back to Brighton to catch our bus back to London. Before that, we stopped over at the World Famous Fish & Chip Restaurant near the Brighton Pier. Deep Fried Cod Fish served with pottato chips and yellow beans. Heavenly~~~ :)

Good food & Good Bargain in Mong Kok, Hong Kong

2007-03-23T14:27:00.000+08:00

I just had my lunch in the new Queenbay Mall, Penang and knew that my friend and his wife are going to Hong Kong this May. On another request, I did promise to post some tips on Mong Kok to Velse who also keen to travel there this year.

So, my friends... here you go my posting on what I think is the food and shopping experience that you should not miss in Mong Kok, Hong Kong. Maybe you should try my recommendation and feedback to me here by leaving your comment after your visit. :)

From Mong Kok Station, take B2 exit and when you get out on Sai Yeung Choi Street (西洋菜街), look for Aberdeen Fishball Noddles Restaurant at the junction of Sai Yeung Choi Street and FiFe Street (快富街).

Brunch at Aberdeen Fishball & Noodles Restaurant (香港仔鱼蛋粉)
There are actually 4 restaurants (chain) in Mong Kok are: Mong Kok Road, Sai Yeung Choi Street, Fa Yuen Street and Nullah Road. The restaurant opens shop around 7am to cater for working class who wants to grab a bowl of fishbal noddle (鱼蛋粉) or boat porridge (艇仔粥) before heading to work. Don't miss out the octopus ball and sea-rambutan ball (海刺). As my brother and I were rushing for breakfast there before we headed to airport, sorry to disappoint you here that I don't have any picture for these food. Why not try the food there and write a blog about it? Then, I will add a link to your blog page. Deal?

My recommendation is to have brunch in this restaurant around 11am so that you have a filled stomach for shoe shopping spree in Fa Yuen Street (Po Hai Kai 波鞋街) which maybe demanding. Haha...

Shoe Shopping Spree in Fa Yuen Street (波鞋街)
This street is famous because of the vast variety of shoes offered with almost all the brands that you are looking for. So, ladies (include men), be patient here!!! Why? Because if you are like me a typical bargain hunter, you withness me hopping from one shop to another shop. My recommendation is to allocate at least an hour to get the shoe you want if you are looking for good deal.

After shopping there, I conclude the following:

Complexity of getting a shoe you like with good bargain =
discount difference x design x size availability x brand x color x pretty sales girl x mood of the day x hahaha...

To add another challenge, all shops look a like with salespersons saying "Come in and see see, if you likie then buy". In fact, some of these shops belong to same owner. So, I am pretty sure that after a while shopping there you will be like me expressing "OMG... which is the shop I see better discount already?" Haha ... happily confused.

Personally, I bought two pairs of shoes - Nike and Timberland. Each only cost me not more than RM230. Ya, Timberland shoe less than RM250, no way you can get it in Malaysia right. Of course, friend, if you have been to US, it is much cheaper there ...

If you are aiming for Timberland shoe, there is a Timberland Shop which offers better choice and depend on your luck, good deal as well. July is the best time to visit Hong Kong because of its summer sale.

Dessert in Lucky Dessert (Fatt Kay 深井发记)
By the time you are done with shopping, why not try out the famous dessert in Lucky Dessert (深井发记). In the entire Hong Kong, there are only Lucky Dessert shops, not as many as the other famous Hui Lau Shan Dessert (许留山). So, make sure you look out for Lucky Dessert in Mong Kok. Frankly, it is quite hard to locate it so why not seek the help of the local. It is actually at one of the junction between Tung Choi Street (女人街）and ??? street. This restaurant is normally very crowded at any time. At times, there maybe long queue too. There is an interesting observation in Hong Kong, the longer a queue is the more people want to be in the queue. So you probably have to be patient there after all your patience will be nicely rewarded ... guarantee!!!

What is good there? Durian Pancake and Pamelo+Mango Dessert

Left: Durian+Mango Dessert Right: Pamelo + Mango Dessert

Left: Durian Pancake Right: Me and my Durian Pancake

Small Cart Noddle or "Che Zai Mien" (车仔面)
This restaurant specialty is noddle. Its popularity somewhat causes bearable attitude there. None-the-least, one particular dish here deserves two thumb-ups - Fried Chee Cheong Fun. It is located at the same road as the Lucky Dessert. You probably should consider dropping bak this restaurant for early dinner. Oh ya, don't miss trying the milk tea in Hong Kong. It is very much different compared to that in Malaysia. In fact, it is better compared to Old Town. ;)

Left: Fried Chee Cheong Fun Right: Small Cart Noddle Restaurant

Let's Rock it Hard in Tokyo!!!

2007-03-15T23:07:00.000+08:00

You must be wondering since I travel quite often, do I collect stuff? Or junk?

In this blog I will share with you for the first time after 20 entries about my favorite collectible whenever I visited a city that has it... Hard Rock City Tee

BTW, some of my close friends may get one occasionally when I feel like giving it as souvenir. So, depend how close are you to me ... :P

So a little bit about how I come about developing this expensive hobby. I actually got hooked when I was on business trip to Beijing in 2001 Dec. My first city-tee is actually black in colour and it is from Beijing Hard Rock Cafe. In fact, it is the only one in black among my other collection. I intend to share with you my collection as time goes on. Of course, I don't mean to brag about it ... but really just my intention to show you the design of a particular city so that you can decide whether to get it before you visit there. If you are already a keen collector, welcome to the club. Make sure you got the All Priority Card. :) For those not yet, make sure you are not those who get it from Petaling Street. ;) Shame shame ...if you did.

Let's start with Tokyo City Tee, my recently added collection. I got it from Hard Rock Cafe in Roppongi. Hard Rock Cafe is along Gaien Higashi-dori that leads to Tokyo Tower. In fact, Tokyo City Tee is the best I ever collected. Why? The awesome Japanese warrior with katana on its belt holding an electric guitar awaiting to rock n roll all night long. Secondly, the high roaring waves with Tokyo Tower and Rainbow Bridge behind the waves signifying the waves with rock-n-roll with you tonight. Happening it is. Clearly, together with the former two symbolic design, the big yellow sun with red background are genuine Japanese's icons.

The Samurai Rocker

Rainbow bridge with Tokyo Tower

Me and Ji Kong (my friend in Tokyo)

The Last Samurai

2007-03-12T21:37:00.000+08:00

Want to be the Last Samurai? Here is how ...
Ever wonder what does it take to be the last samurai in Japan?
Let me tell you how to be one ... :)

First, you need to fly in Kansai International Airport (KIX). At KIX, get yourself a 3-day Kansai Passport for 5000Yen and board yourself on a train to Nara. Before equipped yourself with a samurai sword, why not enjoy a really good Katsu at 玩固 restaurant near Kintetsu Nara Station.

1st: Get a Katana near Nandaimon Gate
Next, casually walk towards Nara park and look for Nandaimon Gate, the entrance to the famous Todaiji Temple. In front of the gate, there is a row of souvenir shops and usally there is a lot of deers waiting for you to feed their with special deer biscuit. :) This is where you can get really good bargain for an awesome katana (Samurai Sword). The Katana can range from 2000-7000Yen. It is a good deal because for a similar sword, you will need to pay at least 2x in Tokyo or Osaka. Below are photos of my Katana that I got for 2950Yen. Wonder how I manage to get it in? I have a very funny story to tell ... but cannot post it here. Write me an email and I will tell you.. ;)

Why not check out my Nara posting to see more photos of Todaiji Temple and of course the Nara deers? Go to http://elvinongbl.blogspot.com/2007/01/japan-winter-trip-22nd-jan-2007.html.

What is next after getting a Katana? Of course it is getting yourself the Samurai Costume. My recommendation is in the famous Kiyomizuzaka, Kyoto. Board a train to Kyoto from Nara where you should probably spend a night after a tiring trip in Nara.

2nd: Get Samurai Costume at Kiyomizuzaka, Kyoto
The next morning, let's stroll along Kiyomizu-zaka, the old Higashiyama street filled mesmerizing view of packed Japanese shops, that leads you to the famous Kiyomizu-dera Temple. While you are busy picking for a nice Japanese costume, why not get yourself to munch on famous Kyoto mua-chi (glutinous rice ball) too. Besides Japanese costume, among other souvenirs offered here are Japanese fan, paintings, postcards, key-chains and most importantly an exquisite choice of Japanese pottery.

From Kiyomizu-dera Temple, why not make a pleasant walking tour towards Nanzenji Temple. If you have not gained sufficient Zen wisdom, why not walk The Path of Philosophy (Tetsugaku-n0-michi) along the old Kyoto Canal with occasion visits to famous temples like Nyakuoji Shrine, Anrakuji Temple, Ginkakuji Temple.

To check out places of interest in Kyoto, why not check out my previous entry:
http://elvinongbl.blogspot.com/2007/01/japan-winter-trip-21st-jan-2007.html

3rd: Receive Samurai Training at Mt Shosha Temples, Himeji
Now that you are ready for Samurai training, you have to enroll yourself to the place where Tom Cruise received his training at Mt Shosha Temple, Himeji. From Kyoto, board on a train to Osaka Umeda station and then Sanyo line to Himeji. From Himeji city, take a local bus to the foothill of Mt Shosha.

To show your sincerity to the samurai master, you should probably consider hiking up the 800m Mt Shosha.

Luckily in modern day, we have ropeway to Mt Shosha at 900Yen for both ways.

Finally, the real Samurai
After you have gained your swordmanship from the best of the best samurai, why not challenge the Himeji Shogun . The prize awaiting you is the beautiful Himeji Castle with magnifient view of Himeji city. To see the beautiful Himeji Castle, why not visit http://elvinongbl.blogspot.com/2007/01/japan-winter-trip-day-1.html.

Come together with your reign on Himeji is an unsung legend that would not complete if there is no manga character for it. And guess what....

My talented fellow blogger friend, Velverse, has specially designed a manga character for you!!! May I present the Last Samurai (Manga version) ....

By the way, Velverse maintains very good blog site (http://www.velverse.com) which is full of fantastic movie reviews, beautiful artworks and excellent food guide around KL.

Baden Powell House, South Kensington

2007-03-09T14:01:00.000+08:00

From the start of Brownsea Island ...
Elvin Ong's special coverage for those who are Scout or Girl Guides ... Happy Scouting!!!

For those who have missed the fun of being a Scout or Girl Guide, the father of Scout movement is Lord Robert Baden Powell. On this special blog I would share with you some of my personal experience in Baden Powell House 3 years ago. Baden Powell House is situated a stone-throw away from Imperial College London and it is just right next to Natural History Museum, South Kensington.

Scout songs, knots & lashings, campfire, hiking, swimming and many outdoor activities have been the major part of me in secondary school. During my one year study in IC, I walked by this house almost daily and it feels like passing the house of my closest "kin" - Lord Baden Powell. If you know me personally, you will know why...

Although the exhibition hall in Baden Powell House is not as big and grand as I thought would be, the artifacts that were once read about from scouting books are displayed in front of my eyes. They simply rock!!! Among the many items that are displayed, his scoutmaster uniform captures my attention the most. Looking at his old uniform with badges and rank pins on the chest and his big ranger hat really fulfills my boy scout's dream and desire. In fact, looking at his potrait with the uniform beside gives me a feeling that he is standing with his arm crossed in front of me. When I finished reading his last letter to scout, tears lid down my cheeks with a boiling heart inside wanting to heed his message in my life ...

His last letter
Dear Scouts,
If you have ever seen the play Peter Pan you will remember how the pirate chief was always making his dying speech because he was afraid that possibly when the time came for him to die he might not have time to get it off his chest. It is much the same with me, and so, although I am not at this moment dying, I shall be doing so one of these days and I want to send you a parting word of good-bye.

Remember, it is the last you will ever hear from me, so think it over.

I have had a most happy life and I want each one of you to have as happy a life too.

I believe that God put us in this jolly world to be happy and enjoy life. Happiness doesn't come from being rich, nor merely from being successful in your career, nor by self-indulgence. One step towards happiness is to make yourself healthy and strong while you are a boy, so that you can be useful and so can enjoy life when you are a man.

Nature study will show you how full of beautiful and wonderful things God has made the world for you to enjoy. Be contented with what you have got and make the best of it. Look on the bright side of things instead of the gloomy one.

But the real way to get happiness is by giving out happiness to other people. Try and leave this world a little better than you found it and when your turn comes to die, you can die happy in feeling that at any rate you have not wasted your time but have done your best. "Be Prepared" in this way, to live happy and to die happy - stick to your Scout promise always - even after you have ceased to be a boy - and God help you to do it.

Your friend
Baden-Powell

His legacy stays on. His inspirations remain deep inside my heart. His potrait imprints deeply in my mind ...
A great man whose legacy transcends far beyond the greatness of a century of human modernization.

Useful link
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Brownsea_Island_Scout_camp
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Baden-Powell_House

Remember 17th Jan 2004 in South Kensington

2007-03-08T21:32:00.000+08:00

Remember 17th Jan 2004 in South Kensington
It seems like yesterday even though it was 3 years ago... but the good old time remains fresh in my mind...

It was our very first gathering in Evelyn Garden, student house of Imperial College, London. South Kensington is one the best address in London. A posh area with BMWs, Porches and Mercedes park along the road in Evelyn Garden with occasionally glimpse of Lamborghini zooming down the road.

So, what could a bunch of Asian students be possibly doing when it is nearer to Chinese New Year? Cooking of course.... Not a simple cooking session but the God-of-food Contest in the heart of SW7.

17th Jan was special to everyone who was there because it marks the start of a good fellowship. It was full of surprises as various chefs from different parts of Asia (Northern China, Southern China, Singapore, Malaysia, Taiwan, Indian) were preparing the best of food from their region. Each of these "chefs" came with "special" art of cooking - the most important quality of being a good chef - trial and error. Ha ha ha....

Left: The fight among God-of-food from Asia
Right: Hey, our shirts look alike. Are u the long-lost brother from same cooking school?

Left: Baked Sweet Potatos

Right: Making Dumplings with hands. Got wash hand or not?

Left: Packed Glutinious Rice Ball from China Town

Right: The famous Evelyn Dumplings ?! :)

Left: These are the dumplings made by me and Fang Liang
Right: Ricky the Dumpling Master.

Left: Indian Chef Shreyas preparing his curry chicken
Right: Me stirring someone's food (as if I am big chef) :P

Left: Let's pose for memory. Look who is behind?
Right: Always there is no peace after a dog fight among God-of-Food.

As the night arrived, the competition ended in fasionably out of control. Afterall it was an interesting dog fight. And ......

The winner of the 2004 Evelyn Garden God-of-Food Contest???
My good buddy from India -

Shreyas the drunken Chelsea footballer.

"He sees. He plays. He drinks. He sleeps"

A true Chelsea footballer from India

Ad: The Romantic Hakone

2007-03-03T17:44:00.000+08:00

This is a special posting for Chap Go Meh (Also known as the Valentine's Day of Chinese) :)

In need of idea to bring your honey to a romantic place in Tokyo and but could not find a good one?

Have you ever heard of Hakone?
Want to see more up-close pictures on Mt Fuji & Lake Ashi?
How about eating the Black Egg of Owakudani which is believed to extend your life span?

Want to know more.. read my back-dated posting (just updated today) at http://elvinongbl.blogspot.com/2007/02/japan-winter-trip-26th-jan-2007-hakone.html

A Unique CNY Celebration in London

2007-02-17T21:56:00.000+08:00

A Unique Chinese New Year Celebration

Just finished a marvellous reunion dinner here in Ipoh (Thank you for all that cook it) and was watching CNY program in Astro just now. Somehow, I felt that I should post something on my blog on CNY. As my blog's theme is about travelling, so I thought it will be cool to share the unique experience that I have celebrating this festive season in London three years ago. Here it goes... cheers mate!! Happy Chinese New Year too.

From Evelyn Garden, South Kensington, together with a bunch of university mates we headed to west-end London where the famous Chinatown is in Bus 14. When we arrive at Chinatwon, the street was already filled a huge crowd. In fact, there was a good blend of races. In fact, more non Chinese there than Chinese!

The main street of China Town was nicely decorated with many red latterns. Make-shift stalls were set-up to sell chinese and oriental delicacy towards the end of Chinatown. Most of the shops and restaurants put up CNY decoration. Restaurant waitresses dressed up in traditional red or gold colour cheong-sum trying to attract tourists to have meals there. Dim sum restaurants were packed with patrons and tourists eagering to enjoy Cantonese style dim-sum in the heart of London. CNY in Chinatown is bustling and full of fun!!!

To my pleasant surprise, I found a stall that was selling Malaysian's favorite food - sate with peanut source. One pound for one stick. That is RM7.2 for one Sate!!! Haha.. what to do.. it is one of my favorite foods since I studied in Uniten and stayed in Kajang fpr 3 years - a town that serves the best sate in Malaysia. So, I got myself two sticks. Hymmm.. it was not as good those back home but they surely satisfied my urge for sate. Hahaha.. :P

Left: Shops selling CNY decorations
Right: Enjoying my Chicken Sates

Left: Chinese Latterns were everywhere
Right: Let's post with the free ballon in front of Chinese Pavillion

Hou Jue, Me and Yuen Hang posting at the Chinatown Archway

Leicester Square
After sampling some food in Chinatown, we moved on to Leicester Square. This square was famous because of many International movies were premiered here. From time to time, there are barricades being set-up to lay red carpet for celebrities and movie critics attending movie premieres here. But, on this day the crowd that gathered here are no movie fan but the curious ones awaiting to witness the only legitimate large scale fire crackers show in London. Haha... security was quite tight and the workers were busy making last minute safety check before the show.

Soon, the fire crackers were litted by using remote control and instantly the loud fire crackers sound spiced up the CNY environment there. Occasionally, I could also hear and see children that cried their way towards their parent because of being shocked by the crackers! At the finale of the show, the crowd cheered in excitement and applauded the effort done by the organizer (Chinese Assembly of London and City Hall) when the final and huge cracker exploded in fasionably loud "ka boom". :)

Immediately, after the fire cracker show ended came a group of all-non-chinese dragon dance team parading in red shirts accompined in the constant beats of Chinese drums. Cool huh! Non Chinese performing dragon dance. Something you don't get in Malaysia. :) Of course, there are the "Chinese" Man and Woman clowns that followed the dragon with occasional comical actions and teasers that brought out laughters from the spectators. :)

Left: Ang Mo Dragon Dance
Right: Chinese Man and Woman Clown

Not forgetting this cool old Chinese man in traditional Sum-fu (Chinese costume) and hat standing with his colourful Chinese fans. He was showing off his skill in spinning all the fans which drawn curious tourists towards him. He even offered the tourists to try out his cool gadget. :) It was quite heavy though... :)

Trafalgar Square

In the centre of Trafalgar Square, a huge stage was erected for numerous Chinese cultural shows. Among the shows are Chinese Fan Dance, Lion dance, Chinese Acrobats and etc. The bright sunny day in the mid-winter was warm and it gave us a perfect environment to enjoy the performance together with some hundreds of other tourists from all over the world. The effort of the Chinese in London to promote Chinese Culture in central London is definitely a good mean to promote understanding among different races as London attracts a huge amount of tourists from every part of the world yearly.

To all the friends that joined me there, thank you for the precious moment I have had there even though I was far away from my family back in Malaysia.

To those who read my blog during CNY, I would like to say ...

Happy Chinese New Year 2007
~ Elvin Ong ~

I will be off for one week.

St. Valentine's Special Edition 2007

2007-02-14T22:52:00.000+08:00

A Little Known Romantic Castle of Bavaria ...
Specially brought to you from my romantic genes during this festive season :) I know that some of the guys are going to hate me for posting this blog because their gals will start requesting for trip to this city. :) Sorry guys!!!

Ok.. my pick is Neuschwanstein Castle, Fussen, Germany.

Without doubt, the charm of the castle's architecture is the main attraction that draws many tourists to this little-known town each year. The town is 2-hour train away from Munich and it is called Fussen. In fact, many will recognize the name of the castle more than the name of the city. The pictures below speak for themselves.

Upon arriving at the Fussen train station, escort your honey to the special bus waiting just in front of the train station. The special bus eventually cuts through the heart of little Bavarian town and brings you straight to the foothill of Neuschwanstein Castle.

A casual walk from the bus stop will lead you to the ticketing point where both of you are immediately welcomed by Hohenschwangau Castle, the royal residence of King Ludwig II's father. Upon entering this castle park, gentleman... it is time to show that you love your honey more than she ever knows.... ;)

Generously fork out the money (I think it is Euro 20) and let your lady to take a horse-carriage ride with you as her prince charming that strolls through the Bavarian forest with chilly breeze accompanied by excerpt of melodious bird's love song. You would not want your lady to hike up the hill to the castle, would you? :)

When you arrive at the end of the horse-carriage path, help your lady alight from the carriage, gentlely wrap your arm around her and walk her up the final portion of the hill before the castle. Let the mesmerizing castle casts the magical romantic spell on both of you. The rest of your romantic excursion will just fall into places naturally. Give her warm kiss on her cheek when you arrive at the entrance of the castle and say "Welcome to my humble castle where my lady, you is the queen here. " Surely her heart will start to melt and love you more. ;)

A visit into the castle is highly recommended as both of you will be pleasantly impressed with King Ludwig II's passion in arts and music. Let's its supreme interior design with the theme of Royal Swan and the music hall with finely tuned acoustic effect submerge both of you into the magical world full of fantasy. Close your eyes and imagine yourself sitting besides your lady enjoying the masterpiece of royal orchestra as one of exclusive companions of King Ludwig II in the 19th century.

Gentlemen, aren't your hearts moved by the ultimate romance this castle could offer you? Treat your lady a trip to this exclusive castle after you read my blog. Ya!

The best reason of all is the architecture of this castle is the actual inspiration for Cinderella's Castle in Disneyland. So, how could she not love you more if she knows that the reason you bring her there in the horse carriage is simply - she is the Cinderella of your heart.

And, you know how the Cinderella story ends right? They live happily ever after.... (thanks Vel for pointing out the magic line...!!!)

Japan Winter Trip - 26th Jan 2007 Hakone

2007-02-10T07:59:00.000+08:00

The Heart-robbing Mt Fuji & Picturesque Lake Ashi in Hakone

A trip to Tokyo without making a special excursion to Hakone（箱根）which offers a romantic view of the snow- topped Mt Fuji is not complete. In fact, such excursion provides a great one-day escapade from the hectic, ultra-modern Tokyo if you are nature-lover like me. :)

Thanks to my buddy Lee Booi for telling me about this great place. She and her hubby are currently based in UK and has recently posted a good entry on Zurich. Check it out at http://leebooilim.blog.co.uk/.

An unromantic ride to Hakone.... Be smart take the Romance Car!!!
As early as 8:00am, by using Akasuka line we commuted to Higashi-nihombashi and hopped onto Shinjuku line that eventually brought us to the famous Shinjuku station. Shinjuku station is a major sub-way and train interchange which is super complex and confusing. It has many countless exits and luckily the direction signs are clear and helpful. The moment we got out for the subway we are swamped by human flows from all direction. Miraculously we found ourselves to Odakyu Railway station and bought ourselves two Hakone Free Passes for 5500Yen each.

As we are much of the budget traveller, we gave the Romance Car Limited Express train a pass which turned out to be a big mistake. The Romance Car also reminded me of the memorable 2-hour Romantic Ride connecting between Lucerne and Interlaken that crosses scenic Swiss hills and lakes. A little bit of sneak preview for my up-coming blog on 2004 Europe Autumn trip this March 2007... ;)

Romance Car in Hakone-Yumoto Station

Back to Hakone ...

At around 8:56am, we took the Odakyu Express Train(小田急电车) from Shinjuku（新舍） to Odawara（小田原） and eventually to the gateway of Hakone - Hakone-Yumoto （箱根汤本）. Although it was Express Train, it took us 2 hours to arrive at Hakone-Yumoto as the so-called Express Train made 20 stops along the way. Nonetheless, such ride reveal the invaluable opportunity for me to closely observe the little towns away from Tokyo and the life of Japanese there .

Get Your First Souvenir Stamp at Hakone Yumoto Station (~11am)
Just before the exit at the Hakone-Yumoto station, there was a little table with brochures and mostly importantly the first Hakone souvenir stamp. Luckily, we flipped through the Hakone Coupon Book that we were handed at the Odakyu tourist counter and noticed about the designated page to collect stamps from eight major toursit spots in Hakone. Each of these stamps is actually the logo of the mean of transportation connecting between two tourist spots. So make sure you ask for this book ... :)

Hotsprings!!! Hotsprings!!! Hotsprings!!!
From Hakone-Yumoto Tozan Bus Stop No.3, the 40-min ride to Moto-Hakone-ko(元箱根港) was full of surprises. The bus traversed through natural cedar forest and intermittently made stops at small village/town offering exquiste hotspring bath to tourists who patronize this area or those who are seeking the thrill of being naked in front of strangers and enjoying the therapeutic effects of mineral-packed hotspring water. Cozy huts offering a relaxing retreat into the well-preserved mother natre could be sighted from time to time. A heaven indeed... Wonder whether I tried the hotsprings? ;)

Hotspring Spa Resort in Hakone

The Huge Lake Ashi and The Majestic Mt Fuji at Moto-Hakone-Ko.

As Tozan Bus travelled downhill towards Moto-Hakone-Ko from Kami-Hatajuku, the mighty Lake Ashi became apparent. Alighting from the bus and walking towards the harbour slowly unveals the shy but majestic Mt Fuji hiding herself in the midst of clouds and moutains around Lake Ashi. According to the local, it is 50% chance that Mt Fuji is not seen from Lake Ashi because of the thick clouds. But luckily God is at our side when Stanley and I were there!

A picture speaks a thousand words. Since I posted 9 pictures below, I will let them speak the next 9 thousand words about Lake Ashi and Mt Fuji. To me, the opportunity to see the symmetric snow-topped Mt Fuji fulfills my childhood dream and the experience to submerge myself in the serenity of Lake Ashi was simply breathtaking.

Top: Mt Komagatake which offers good Mt Fuji view.
Below: Lake Ashi with good view of symmetric snow-topped Mt Fuji

Top: Pirate Ship Ride in Lake Ashi. It is covered by the free pass.
Bottom-left: Two beautiful dogs by Lake Ashi.
Bottom-righ: Mt Komagatake view from Lake Ashi

Left: Am I dreaming? Is that Mt Fuji?
Right: Ancient Cedar Avenue is just 5 min away from the harbour

Even though the Pirate Ship stops at Moto-Hakone-Ko harbour before continues it cruise towards Togendai (桃源台), I recommend that you make a casual walk to Hakone Machi via the 2-km Ancient Cedar Avenue.

Tip: Travel to Hakone-en by bus (covered by the pass), then take ropeway up to Mt. Komagatake. Sadly, the ride up is not covered by the free pass. I suspect that the view at Mt Komagatake is much better than that in Owakudani because it offers scenic view of Lake Ashi and Mt Fuji.

Ancient Cedar Avenue (~15min)
Ancient Cedar Avenue was once the major Tokaido Highway to Hakone area. To provide comfort to travellers in both the hot summer and the cold winter, cedar trees were ordered to be planted by Edo Shogunate. The reasons to make this walk are two folds: To engross oneself in the beuty of ancient cedar trees and to immagine oneself as a traveller walking towards the Hakone Checkpoint at the end of the avenue, i.e. Hakone Machi.

Left: Cedar trees are planted along Tokaido Highway
Right: The Unique Cedar Twin-tree

Hakone Machi
At the end of cedar avenue, the entrance to Hakone-machi is just another 5-min of walk. We passed by a little but well-maintained Japanese garden and eventually Material Musuem (300Yen) with two Edo era mannequins standing at the entrance of the museum. Skipping the museum and on the way towards Hakone Checkpoint, we came across something very very interesting!!!

The biggest black sugar cracker in the world (At least from what I have ever seen)

Left: Material Museum with two Edo era Mannequins
Right: The rest house between Material Museum and Hakone Checkpoint.

Left: The smaller black sugar cracker (280Yen)
Right: Lake Ashi view from Hakone-Machi.

Left: The biggest Black Sugar Cracker in the world
Right: Posting with Edo era Checkpoint Mannequine

This rest house ran by a polite old lady at Hakone-Machi offers Japanese beverages at affordable price. It also offers a good range of Mt Fuji painting postcards (80-90Yen each). No doubt, I bought two of them as I am keen postcards collector.

Hakone Checkpoint

At the Hakone Checkpoint, woodern fences with watch tower stationed with officer can been from afar. From the way we dress, no doubt the fierce officers stopped us for thorough checking fearing that we are harmful.
At the end of the checking, we were granted two clearance passes after paying 2000Yen as toll collection to the Edo Shogunate. The above description would be applicable if we are travellers during Edo era. Today, the check-point is just a mere replica of the ancient building with live performance during weekend. The entrance fee to the check-point is 500Yen.

Two harbours in Hakone Machi
About 400meters away from the check-point, we arrived at the first harbour. The moment we entered the harbour complex, we were welcomed by smiling faces offering samples of Japanese muachi and local delicacy. We walked towards the ticketing counter and realized that only modern speed-boat embarks from here. In addition, the Hakone free pass does not cover modern speed-boat ride.

Hey, why is the Pirate Ship ???

We explored further down the town and 200 meters away from the first harbour is the second harbour. So, if you are travelling on your own here without following any guided tour, make sure you go to the second harbour for the Pirate Ship ride.

In fron of the Pirate Ship Harbour is the Noah House. Ark of Noah?! How come there is a house that is named after the famous biblical Ark of Noah? Perhaps, the owner is a faithful Christian? :)

Noah House has unique architecture and a wide variety of souvenirs and Japanese snacks are sold here. Spotting a couple of refrigerator souvenir magnets really thrilled me as I have been requested to get a few of them from Japan and until then I had not came across any in Kyoto or Nara. Without thinking much, I got 4 magnets at 300-350Yen each.

House of Noah

Taking Pirate Ship from Hakone Machi to Togendai

When a green Pirate Ship approached the harbour, the crowds waiting at the harbour were transformed into pirates lining up in queues to enter the battle ship. Pirate of Carribean? Captain Jack?

At 1:50pm sharp, a loud hon was made signalling the embarkment of the Pirate Ship into the sea full of mysterious challenges. It first headed towards Moto-Hakone-Ko. Together with us are crowds of pirates both females and males from Taiwan, Korea and China. He he... no no.. they are not pirates. They are tourists following guided tour. Nonetheless, they are very excited about the pirate scultures on the deck and were grabbing every opportunity to take photos of the scultures.

Hey!!! What about my share of my beer? Hey, where is my meat? Ha ha ha (Voices from my fantacy of being Captain Jack :P)

At Moto-Hakone-Ko, most of the tourists alighted from the ship. So, one advantage of not travelling on guided tour is that you have all the time on your own and there is no need for you to squeeze with people and always on the rush. :)

Guess what we did and experienced after the tourists left the Pirate Ship at Moto-Hakone-Ko??? The whole ship is all mine!!!! Our show began !!!

Let's post with Mr Captain Big Belly! :P
Dude, do you see a land in front ? Let me help you with my binoculars. :P

Left: Entering Pirate Ship: Right: Another Pirate Ship on the way to Togendai

Left: Red Archway (What is called? Any idea?) Right: Let's me help you to look for land in front

The Pirate Ship that I took from Hakone Machi to Togendai

Left: Where is Captain Jack Sparrow? Right: The Angelic Lion

Left: Posting with Captain of the pirate Right: Other Sight-seeing Ship at Togendai

Tip: If you don't have much time to kill, the Pirate Ship from Hakone Machi to Moto-Hakone-Ko is sufficient as in the middle of the ride between these two towns, you will have closer look at the Majestic Mt Fuji. So, make sure you are not too engrossed with the artificial pirates sculture but rather spend your moment enjoying the beutiful scenery the ride offers.

As we were arriving at Togendai, other types of Hakone Sight-seeing Cruises can be seen parking at the Togendai Harbour. Unfortunately, the harbour is undergoing face lifting. Another misopportunity for us is the ropeway from Togendai to Owakudani was undergoing major recabling engineering and we were whisked to Owakudani in local bus.

Lunch at 极乐茶室 "Utmost Pleasure Restaurant", Owakudani.
The view of Mt Fuji at Owakudani was simply perfect! Unlike the view at Lake Ashi where the lower part of Mt Fuji is blocked by hills surrouding Lake Ashi, the view here is more complete. Occasionally, clouds will float by forming additional heaven-like touch on the view. At other instant, the sun-lit Mt Fuji takes the center stage radiating the Goddess-like purity to her admirers. Whether you are nature lover or a techno gig, the enchantment Mt Fuji would surely capture your heart with her beuty deeply imprinted in your mind.

Different views of Mt Fuji at Owakudani

What could be better than sipping a cup of hot sake and enjoying Japanese lunch at Owakudani while letting oneself be mesmerized by the beuty of Mt Fuji? No wonder the restaurant we had our lunch is called "Utmost Pleasure Restaurant". Contrary to your thought that the meal must be expensive, we only spent 1400Yen each for our lunch there. :)

Left: A glass of hot sake Right: Pork Katsu Rice with Miso Soup

Owakudani

Continuing our journey after the splendid lunch, we casually hiked up to the hell valley called Owakudani. The valley was formed due to volcanic explosion before christ. Today, this valley became a popular spot due to its unique landscape often obscrubed by sulfuric smoke released from the ground from time to time. Ironically, the unpleasant sulfuric smoke (smell like rotten egg) does not hinder thousands of tourists each year to try out the famous black eggs sold there. Unfortunately, when we were there a Japanese couple beats us by getting the last pack of 6 black eggs. Sob sob..

Left: Me at Utmost Pleasure Restaurant with Mt Fuji at the back.
Right: On the way up to Owakudani

Left: Sulfuric water flowing down the stream. Right: A small wooden bridge on the way to hell valley

Left: Archway at Owakudani Right: Black Egg Shop

The natural black egg cooker (boiling hot spring water)

Left: The table used for cracking black egg Right: The unique landscape at Owakudani

More photos on Owakudani Mountain (1050meter)

Heading back to Hakone-Yumoto via Sounzan & Gora

At Owakudani Ropeway Station, we collected our 3rd souvenir stamp and took a cable car towards Sounzan (早云山). As we descended towards Sounzan, we could see Mt Fuji bidding farewell to us for far. Sad we were but leave we must. Sob sob....

Left: Snow-filled Souzan Hill Right:Mt Fuji from afar

At Sounzan, we collected the 4th souvenir stamp and eventually took the single-track funicular down to Gora. At Gora, Stanley being too tired forgotten about his tripod. Before we boarded Hakone Tozan Bus back to Hakone-Yumoto, Stanley noticed about his missing tripod. After much search around the train station but in vain. Eventually, he approached the ticketing counter but the officer could not understand what he meant. We were quite panic as the tripod is quite expensive. Eventually, Stanley got hold of an officer that could merely understand him. Through a series of hand-language and simple english communication exchange, finally, the offer validated Stanley is the rightful owner of the tripod left in the funicular car. The tripod was kept in the station after the driver picked it up earlier. Thanks to the helpful station officers at Gora! We salute your help and professionalism.

Something small that I didn't miss ... :)

At Gora station it was really cold in the winter after the sun retired to the west. We were supposed to take Hakone Tozan Train from Gora back to Hakone-Yumoto but unfortunately there was a major railing engineering work. As we were waiting for the bus to start, we were queuing up in line. Normally, in Malaysia the passenger will be sitting in the bus with the engine running.

Japanese are really environmental-savy population. The bus engine is only ignited minute before it starts it journey. So, what happen to the passenger queueing outside the bus in the cold winter? They provide this...

The Super Big Heater ;)

Travel Tips & Summary

Highlight:
Lake Ashi, Mt Fuiji viewing at Moto Hakone-Ko lake front, Ancient Cedar Avenue, Hakone Checkpoint, Pirate Ship from Hakone Machi to Togendai, Owakudani & the black egg, Lunch at "Utmost Pleasure Restaurant", Gora Park.

Tips:
Get the Hakone Free Pass issued by Odakyu Electric Railway in Shinjuku station. For just 5500Yen, you can board on all transportations without additional charge. For quicker and more comfortable access to Hakone from Shinjuku station, I recommend the Limited Express Romance Car with additional 870Yen for one way. The pass can be purchased at the automatic machine.

Don't forget to grab the free Hakone Coupon Book for souvenir stamps from the Odakyu Sales/Tourist Counter at Shinjuku station.

Hong Kong Christmas Trip - Seafood at Saikung

2007-02-09T21:13:00.000+08:00

Saikung - Seafood Paradise
Many may wonder what is so special about seafood in Saikung that deserves a blog on it as I have so many options in Penang for seafood treat - Bukit Tambun, Batu Kawan, Teluk Kumbar, Batu Maung, Ayer Itam. :)

Frankly, until I visited Saikung I must admit that I was not really keen to have seafood in Hong Kong. It is expensive in the HK island and I would prefer to have Cantonese Roast Duck or Goose which is so much nicer than Malaysian's ones.... Now that I think about it again, I felt so hungry again.... :) Especially the succulent roast char siu in Tsim Sha Tsui. Haha...

Ok, my brother convinced me to take the hassle to go to Saikung for seafood which is far away according to the my HK map. We took subway to "Choi Hong" (rainbow) from Tsim Sha Tsui and then boarded on a mini bus to Saikung. The whole journey took us around 45 minutes. Great!!? Well, sitting inside a mini bus that sped down the hilly part of HK really rocks!!! Haha. In fact, there is speedometer counter that keeps track of the mini bus speed. When the mini bus exceeds 80km/hr, the buzzer will be triggered. Cool huh?! So, wonder the buzzer even sound? You bet!!! 3 times in fact!!

A Speedometer buzzer for Malaysian Bus? Good idea?
Come to think of it, why can't our Malaysian's long journey bus be installed with such device. In fact it could just prompt the passenger that if the bus driver is speeding like crazy. Maybe it is a good idea that could have saved lives as in the past couple of months there have been accident involving bus with high fatal count in Malaysia.

Around harbour front
The mini bus took us into Saikung town where we later strolled along the waterfront where there were crowds of tourists and locals bargaining with fishermen selling their daily catch from boat on sea. It is quite unique to me. Along the harbour front, there is numerous of people walking their fancy dogs too. In fact this was exactly what had described by my brother's friend Wai Kuen. The breeze was really cold in the winter too!!!

As we walked away from the harbour, we were approached by restaurant agents pursuading us to have seafood set dinner in their restaurant with leaflet. There are 4-5 restaurants that have huge seafood display at the waterfront where many yatchs were parked. It was really quite a view of the sea gulf and it was even better to have seafood dinner there too.

It is so hard to pick when I was swamped by so many leaflets!!! Finally after much consideration and checking out the type of diners in the restaurant, we picked Chuen Kee Restaurant. It is at the other end of the harbour front and turned out to be the best one actually!!! :) Proof? Many Hongkee actually have dinner there and there are photos of HK movie stars too. So, no doubt it is the best among the others. But, I am still in doubt as Bukit Kawan seafood has high standard you know? :P

So, for 350HKD we were served 4 dishes plus an complimentary boiled vegetable. The tea and rice are free too. Haha... so my brother achieved his purpose to have seafood in saikung. Me not convinced yet.. haha.. I am from Penang. Penang is famous for seafood. No question and no doubt at all. So let's me see how Chuen Kee is preparing our orders - Lobster in Yee Mee, Ginger Crab, Toichu Clams and Steamed Fish. So, as you can quickly notice from the outlook of the dishes shown below, haha..., you will know that my taste butts are completely satisfied and my stomach is excessively filled. Bad Bad!!! Don't care about fitness for this day. Let's enjoy the Cantonese Style Seafood. Yummmyyyy......

Nonetheless, as much as the Toichu Clams are good we still felt that we should have ordered fried prawns as my head was checking out what my neighbour Ang Mo couple were having on their table!!!

And the best of all is I actually took a photo with a King Lobster!!!

Cool right ?!?!

A Gift of Faith to My Fellow Catholic Friends

2007-02-09T19:40:00.000+08:00

St Ignatius Church, Yotsuya, Tokyo
Sunday 28th January 2007, In just a couple of hours I will be leaving back to Malaysia from Narita Airport. With the help of our friend - Ji Kong who stays in Tokyo we got to know about this church in the centre of Tokyo. Thank you so much Ji Kong.

We woke up around 8:30am and boarded Ginza line from Akasuka to Akasaka-mitsuke then Marunouchi line to Yotsuya. After getting out from the station, Stanley went on to ask the police about the where about of the church. Apparently, it is next to the subway or JR station. Unlike traditional church building, this church has unique building architecture and hence the reason we are not able to spot it as soon as we got out from the subway. Duhhh!!! Haha... In fact, it is just 100 meter. ;o

We attende the Japanese mass at 10:30am even though there is an English mass at 12:00pm as it is not allowed by our schedule. Guess what, sitting myself within the Japanese catholics community I actually felt much peace in me although I don't understand 99.999% of what they are saying. But, listening to them singing in Japanese hymms are really a good experience to have. This bring back my experience when I was in Hong Kong last month and I was at Methodist Church with my brother (A methodist christian) near Causeway Bay. The difference is of course the hymms are in Cantonese.... :) which I understand of course. :)

Sitting besides me is a 50++ man who came alone to the church. Next to Stanley was actually a young girl with her mother. She was so cute in church. I must praise that she is in fact very discipline as well. When we kneel down, she kneel down. When we stand up she stand up. She just follow through the celebration ceremony as the others although she is merely 5 years old. Unfortunately, I didn't take a snap of her.. or else I could surely share it here. :)

After the mass finished, the Japanese man started to talk to us in English. Although I could not really grasp what he said.. but roughly he was welcoming us to Japan and asked about where we are from and where we have visited. He even suggested that we should not miss skiing as he knows that Malaysia is summer all year long. It was in fact a very good and pleasant experience communicate with him. Whatever your name is.. I just want to thank you for your hospitality while Stanley and I were in the church.

One cool thing that I want to point out is the priest is actually a French and he speaks very good Japanese. He gave his homily preach in Japanese in a very charismatic way too. Super cool!!

Another beautiful thing that Ji Kong told us before is the build-up of the church. It has 12 pillars with lotus-flower like glass roof at the centre. Each of the pillars are accompanied by a long staint glass and at the 2nd floor of the church there is a huge modern organ where the choir team and organist lead the parishioners in singing hymms.

After the mass, Stanley and I walked around the church for photo shotting and eventually have a very homely Japanese food at the canteen. I enjoyed a bowl of beef-soup rice, a piece of Okonomiyaki (Flour+Egg+veggie pancake) and a cup of hot chocolate. It was merely 900Yen. The food tastes really good! Yeah! This is what I call fulfilling both spiritually and physically!!! :)

Before we left the church to Akihabara again, we went into the church shop where I got a couple of Japanese souvenirs. As it was the last day here, as usual, I grab as many as my Japanese Yen allow for my church friends especially the church website team that I work closely with.

In fact the famous Malaysian blogger Lilian Chan is one of them and she actually posted the souvenir that I gave it to her in her personal Christian faith website : http://christian-journey.com/does-vincent-kor-kor-has-a-mummy/

Btw, Lilian, your toddler really has the children eyes where Jesus has repeatedly reminded us to have to see the Kingdom of God.

To view the website of Holy Spirit Cathedral (Penang), goto http://www.holyspiritcathedral.com .