A Totally-Me World

Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas!

2011-12-13T16:18:00.000+08:00

I noticed that I never blog about Christmas, or even once. Please don't be misunderstanding. I never keep myself away from Christmas celebration. In fact I love this occasion very much especially seeing those busy preparing Christmas gift for their loved one, meanwhile give themselves a reason for shopping as there is always a Christmas crazy sale in town! :P

What stop me from blogging about Christmas? Time. I lack of time. (This always my good excuse? :P)

Prepare Christmas dinner menu
This year is the year I say goodbye to my singlehood, and be my darling's wife. There should be something different. No counting down in the crowd. No early restaurant reservation. No dinner dishes which cooked by famous chef. Yeap, simply 2 of us having the candle light dinner at..... HOME. I believe HOME is always the warmest. ^__^

Christmas Gathering/Party & Gift Exchange
Believe me, I never a lazy person in organizing a party, but I will never be the first one to kick off a party. =P Gathering is always a fun stuff in my life. From deciding on the food menu to picking up a lovely gift for exchange, it is totally precious! I am Do-It-Yourself person. I love to DIY something lovely and special for my guests (just like in my wedding). Time for me putting my DIY skill on this Christmas! ^___^

Christmas Decoration
Christmas tree is necessary in this occasion. This year we get ourselves a "giant" Christmas tree! At least it looks huge to me and my newly adopted Paddington bear from London. Hehehe.. Decorate it with pinky tree ornaments, as well as switch on the fairy lights.. Tada, please welcome my lovely Lady - Miss Pinky! should I name it this way? Hmm.. ="= "

"Snowing" effect
My country never snowing since I was born. But it is okay as i will make my house "snowing"!! ^___^ I believe my hubby will say that I am silly. Air conditioner & fans is the greatest creation for ONLY this moment. But I believe you will not think that it is as great as what I said when you receive your monthly electricity bill.. ="= Create lovely snow flakes on the glasses using the white and removable spray. Again I believe that you will never say they are lovely when you need to remove them.. =P

Last but not least, have yourself a Merry Christmas!

Cambodia Trip Day 2: Angkor Wat & Tonle Sap Lake

2011-12-03T21:22:00.000+08:00

Finally I am able to update my blog again! Start my new life with someone. It is exciting part. By the way I discover that I should not just neglect this little blog as I noticed that getting many readers giving me supports. Thanks for encouragement you all have been given to me. I appreciate it very much. Will continue blogging without let you all down. ^___^

[8 October 2010]

Angkor Wat - my long awaiting destination. It looks so magnificient and amazing in the first sight. Heard from someone that the sunrise in Angkor Wat is the best. As a traveller, of course I will sacrifice my sleeping time and woke up at 4am just to capture a glimpse of sunlight in Angkor Wat. I believe it will be very breathtaking.

The sunlight paints the sky into golden yellow. Isn't it wonderful? Everything seems like just stop at this moment. So lovely and peaceful.

I am running out of vocabulary to describe this beauty nature. But I believe my pictures will be able to show you all how beautiful is it. Check it out. ^___^

I believe you will be very familiar to this place if you watched the movie "Tomb Raider" before. Yup, this place named as Ta Prohm. It is one of the famous temple in Angkor due to those photogenic and atmospheric of tree growing out of the ruins of temple.

Bayon - well known of its massive and serene of stone face.

After 11 hours walking up and down in Angkor Wat, we decided give ourselves a rest. The weather was super hot until we were very exhausted. After had our lunch, we headed back to hotel to take a rest. Around 5pm, we get ourselves for the next attraction in Siem Reap - Tonle Sap Lake.

The Tonle Sap lake is the largest fresh water lake in South-East Asia. One of unique feature is people used to living in floating village around the Tonle Sap lake. You can find a lot of facilities here such as floating clinic, floating house, floating mechanic shop, and even floating church.

At night we had our buffet dinner at restaurant. Surprisingly seeing many tourists gathered over here. The reason is we get to see traditional Khmer dance while having our dinner.

Angkor Wat is a place full of mystery and need a lot of time for exploring its creation. I think I need at least 3 days to exlore this place, but too bad tomorrow we have to continue our journey to Phnom Penh.

I am back to reality!

2011-10-22T10:00:00.005+08:00

I am back after neglecting my blog for 5 months and 8 days. I have been busy for my wedding since last year after the proposal. Been busy pulling my hair thinking on wedding idea and working on my wedding preparation for almost 1 year. O.M.G! But now finally settle down... I would never believe that the journey of wedding preparation is so much fun and, of course, need a lot of effort too. No pain, no gain. Luckily I have my loved one to fight together. ^_______^

Hereby sharing my wedding blog: http://www.mywedding.com/cheehowconnie/index.html

I hope this would give little help to those who are in the mid of preparing their wedding.

Cambodia Trip Day 1: Sunset @ Phnom Bakheng

2011-05-14T17:37:00.001+08:00

[7th October 2010]

It suppose raining season in Cambodia in October. It suppose a cooling weather due to raining. But, it was super hot when I first touched down. The weather is burning hot compared to Malaysia/Singapore. I wish I can hide inside the hotel room right now, but anyhow I have to queue up like other tourists and clear the custom.

Few weeks back, we made our choices between Cambodia & Myanmar and ended up we decided on Cambodia. We love nature! We love backpack! We love to explore! We love the culture! So here we come, Cambodia! First time, we took Silk Air.. ^.^ The package included air tickets + accommodation + personal tour guide + food + entrance fee looks reasonable for us, thus we signed up the package.

We stayed at Cozyna Angkor hotel. It is 3 star hotel with comfortable environment to stay in. Everything is well maintained. The staff here is friendly and they could chit-chat with limited English. The swimming pool is big and it links with beautiful garden.

Lunch at hotel. Before going to Cambodia, my friends advice me not to drink any water with ice cube. Canned drink or bottle drink is the best. Even advice me to brush teeth by using mineral water but not tap water. Thus I'm quite careful in the way choosing my drink. By the way I think they are trying to improve their hygiene. So far, there is no problem if drinking ice water in Cambodia. Under the super hot sun, how could resists myself from drinking ice water? :P

Tour guide fetched us to Le Artisan D'Angkor Center. We have the chance to view the beauty of Khmer art. It is also a training center. Young people are trained in the tranditional craftmanship.

Next we toured around Spider Market. Many kind of souvenirs can be found here. There are much much more to explore. You able to try local stall food here.

We got to reach Phnom Bakheng before sunset. The tour guide leads us up to the Phnom Bakheng which situated inside the forest. You would not get lost as it is only one way path. Just follow the crowd, then you will find the temple. History about Phnom Bakheng can be found in wikipedia.

Look! The crowd in Phnom Bakheng. Everyone is trying hard to "crawl up" to the temple and waiting for the sunset. Why I say "crawl up"? Most of the temple in Siem Reap has a very steep design in staircase. It has a very large gap between steps. Therefore I only able to reach temple by "crawling up" using my both hands and legs.. ="= It is adventurous activity and this needs a lot of arm and legs mucles. I was kept praying for not falling down for each step I conquerred. :P I know it will be nightmare for me in the next day as my mucles sore. >_<

The sunset is nice yet short! It's worth to spend so much time on crawling up the temple. Love it!

The way down the mountain is pretty dark with no light in the forest. It is quite eerie if walk alone. Sometimes you would scared by the little kid who squat near the cliff. They are begging for money. This scene is quite common in Cambodia. Many people are adviced not to give them money. Once you give to one kid, another kids will follow you. Therefore we only can sympathize without giving any help. This always a bad thing for me.
This is our dinner before end of the day. It's Chinese cuisine. Everything taste good to us. By the way the portion are more than enough for 2 of us.

We have to rest earlier that night as tomorrow would be another adventurous day for us. Angkor Wat, here we come! ^.^

Sentosa Flower Festival

2011-02-19T22:07:00.008+08:00

I have not update my blog for some times. I'm almost putting all of my times on preparing my wedding. I think this is the most forgiving reason for not updating my blog that frequent. =P Well, I still passion on photography as usual.

My bf & I went to Sentosa Flower Festival as this is the chance that I can practice my photography skill. Moreover I never attend to this festival at all although I have been in Singapore for more than 2 years!! ="= The Sentosa flower festival held during Chinese New Year. This year this event drops on 3rd - 13th Feb 2011.

We walked to Sentosa using boardwalk. This is a new walkway connected between Sentosa and Vivo city shopping mall. It takes about 10 - 15 minutes walk. There is travelator along the walkway for convenience purpose. As usual, $1 will be paid at the entrance before entering Sentosa Island. You can either pay by cash or Ezlink card.

The scenery along the boardwalk is attractive especially at night. There are a lot of sculptures and art design along the walkway.

I know normally people love to capture flowers in day time. But I am kind of people specially love the peaceful of night. ^.^ At night, I no need worry about sun-burn when shooting under the hot sun. I never worry of crowded people too. Nevertheless I love night time!! ^^
Singapore Universal Studio - A place which I can play like a child. I wish one day I able to get free ticket or maybe someone can sponsor me to let me "be a child" for 1 day. =P
The decoration in flower festival. All the animals are the animals from Chinese zodiac. There are 12 in total - Rat, Cow, Tiger, Rabbit, Dragon, Snake, Horse, Goat, Monkey, Rooster, Dog, Pig.

Thanks to those workers who planting / designing all these flowers. ^^

New Year Dinner @ Asmara Middle Rock Bar

2011-01-29T22:50:00.000+08:00

31. 12. 2010

On that day, we celebrated last day of year 2010 and welcome the first day of year 2011 together. He have made a reservation at Middle Rock Bar, Bishan Park. In such special day, we decided to order set dinner instead of ala carte.

The environment here is just nice for dating and also a great place for friend's gathering. Of course, sometimes I wish to have some private times together with my bf. Just he and me. I think he understand me well, therefore he choose that night to have such wonderful dinner with me.

Our first dish of the night - Prosciutto Di Parma Con Melone. It is appetizer. I love the taste! The appearance of the appetizer looks yummy with luscious rock melon wrapped with thinly sliced parma ham. It served together with zesty apple spaghetti & my favorite cranberry.

2 choices for the soups on that night. Without hesitation, we ordered each of them. First we have hearty french onion soup topped with gruyere cheese. It is a bit salty for me. It would be great if it is not that salty.

Second we have mushroom soup infused with truffle.

A glass of champagne each person to toast for our 2 years anniversary! ^_^

For him, a roasted beef loin served with roasted mixed root vegetable and Shellot red wine sauce.

For me, pan seared black cod fish and braised endive bacon, served with mash potato and asparagus fritter. The portion is just good for me.

Girls' all-time favorite!! THE DESSERT!!! No matter how full I am, I still can swallow any dessert that put in front of me. =P Our dessert of the night - Fresh fruit Pavlova. A taste with sweet & sour combination. Loving it!!! ^_^

The night is sweet when he popped out a question "Will you marry me?" and I nodded. ^_^ I am happy to be known as Mrs Tan now!

Christmas Dinner @ Chalk

2011-01-15T23:45:00.001+08:00

My colleagues and I had been planned for year 2010 Christmas party one month before the actual day. We had considered whether to do it indoor or outdoor. BBQ would be always a top option as outdoor party. Due to our laziness, we ended up decide to have our Christmas party indoor. We choose Chalk restaurant as party venue and we celebrated our Christmas eve there.

Chalk restaurant is located at old school, Mount Sophia. It happened as a school before, but now it turns into restaurant. Means we had our dinner in classroom. The ambient is nice and suitable for gathering and dating. You never feel like you're in the classroom at all.

Address
Old School
11 Mount Sophia, #01-03
Singapore 228461

Telephone No.
65 6883 2120

First we warmed our stomach with a glass of beer.

We started our dinner with a plate of bread. Bread is always a great combination together with butter or olive oil. I prefer eat it with olive oil because it makes feel more healthier. Simply mental reaction. =P

Today's special is chicken salad and meat lover thin pizza. I love the chicken salad very much! It whet my appetite. Sharing is always enjoyable moment. I never say NO when share the food. And now we have 8 person shared 1 plate of salad and.. 1 plate of thin pizza. Hmm.. feel sorry for those who have big appetite.. =P

Every people order one main course. I choose to eat roast spring chicken Cardamon wild rice sauteed mushroom and fine beans. It is licking good! Others main courses such as seared duck breast, roasted quail and carbonara are also recommended for those food lover.

Soup of the day was mushroom soup. It was so filling for every spoon. Luckily it comes after our main course, else I don't think I can finish my portion.

It's time for gift exchange!!
We set a lot of rules on buying the Christmas gift.
- No food.
- No toiletry like tissue paper, but body lotion is acceptable.
- No jigsaw puzzle.
- No mugs.

So, no one break the rules! We got what we want! ^_^

It is never complete if no log cake in Christmas day! Last activity in our Christmas party was Christmas log cake. They all really puzzled with this 1kg log cake and wondered how to finish it after the dinner. Therefore we decided to cut the log cake into half and we eat the half of cake. The other half would be handled by one of our colleagues.

Christmas is meaningful when you have a bunch of friends celebrate it together. Laughter and joy filled the restaurant. No wonder I love Christmas so much! ^_^

Phuket Trip Day 3: Patong Beach / Sukko Spa

2011-01-09T11:34:00.002+08:00

13 July 2010

Another relaxing day for us. No alarm clock. Woke up around 9am and had our breakfast again at 7-11 shop. After breakfast, we walked to Patong Beach for sun-bathing. Patong beach is crowded with tourists. Since it is near to Patong's most happening area, so it becomes one of attraction in Phuket.

Occasionally you will see some tourists set up their "territory" on the beach. =P

I have booked SPA online. We booked the SPA from Sukko Cultural Spa & Wellness Resort. We signed up the "Really Relaxing" package which costs 3600 THB per person. This package includes
- Steam & Jacuzzi
- Thai Tumeric (Thai Herbs) body scrub
- Floral Milk Bath
- Serenity Aromatherapy body massage
- Aloe Relieve Moisturizing Facial Treatment
- Land transfer to/from hotel

I am quite impressed with their service. Would love to visit Sukko again if I find a chance to Phuket.

The driver from Sukko dropped us at Jungceylon shopping complex. We had dinner at Fuji Japanese restaurant. It is recommended by my friends due to its cheaper price.

I love the mocha milk shake! I feel so refreshing and content after a glass of milk shake especially under such hot weather. =) Mocha milk shake 120 THB.

Bacon roll 70 THB

Garlic fried rice 35 THB.

Beef Teriyaki set 220 THB.

After dinner, we strolled around before heading back to hotel. We returned to Singapore the next day. In the morning, Mr Wooddy's staff picked us up in the hotel and sent us to airport. It is free of charge, of course.

My entries about Phuket trip are as below:
Day 1
Day 2
Day 3

Looking back on 2010

2011-01-02T00:30:00.008+08:00

Shanghai Trip, China

Travelled to Shanghai with mum during CNY 2010. First time touched the real snow. Saw it melt, and experienced the coldness of snow. Been stepped on the land of SuZhou, NanJing, WuXi, HangZhou and finally come to Shanghai. The night in Shanghai still as charming as it is, just like the song "夜上海".

Melbourne Trip, Australia

Spent half year planned for the Malbourne trip. Excited throughout the trip as this is my first time backpack to non-Asia country. Been drive along the Great Ocean Road, and saw the greatest 12 Apostles (although now just left 7). Been experience the Australia's oldest steam train - Puffing Billy. Been visit their city without spending any dollars on transportation. Very close to kangaroo and koalas for the first time, but I wish to hug them one day.

Phuket Trip, Thailand
Relaxing and sun-bathing near the beach. Having a lot of delicious and cheaper price seafood. Been captured photo with tiger cub. Saw people have fun when snorkeling but I myself cannot overcome my own fear or phobia to sea.

Cambodia and Phnom Penh Trip, Cambodia

Saw the sunset at Angkor Wat. Feel amazed when saw the greatest Angkor Wat. Been prayed hard for herself for not fall down from the temple when climb up to one of temples in Angkor Wat. Climbed up to 3 temples in one day. Ended up muscle pain. Understand how the Cambodia people living.

Formula 1, Singapore Grand Prix

Got 2 free tickets and able to visit to the event. Without any proper preparation, ended up feel dizzy and headache due to the loud racing sound.

Marina Bay Sands, Singapore

Been practise my photography skill from time to time. Night outings to Marina Bay Sands but too bad it was raining day.

Celebrations

Been celebrated my birthday, friend's birthday, colleagues' birthday. Even celebrated Mid-Autumn, Christmas and New year. Apreciate very much for those who accompany me throughout the year. Thanks for those giving me support to let me continue my dream and hobbies without any complaining, especially my loved one.

May this new year brings properity, happiness and love! ^_^

Phuket Trip Day 2: City Tour / Fantasea

2010-12-29T18:26:00.004+08:00

12 July 2010

Since it is a backpack trip, we always make sure we have enough rest before depart to any destination. We woke up with very refreshing mind. Had a very minor breakfast at 7-11 (department store) which just situated right beside our hotel. After breakfast, we walked about 10minutes to Patong Otop. OTOP stands for One Tambon One Product. This is a government-sponsored initiative to create small local industries in Thailand. OTOP products are typically local handicrafts, clothing, dried fruits, wines, etc. The quality is usually good and the prices are reasonable, although not the cheapest.

We went back to hotel after having our lunch. Mr Wooddy's staff fetched us from our hotel for city tour. Sometimes having personal tour guide aka driver during the trip is a great idea. We no need worry about the schedule, also no need worry to get lost. Furthermore we can stop at any point/destination which we like to stop by.

First we came to Kata Beach. It is cleaner than Patong Beach. It is also less tourists. This is because its location far from city area. But definitely this beach will becomes next tourist attractions due to its crystal clear water and white sands.

The red/yellow flag is like a warning sign board for public. Red/warning flag tells that strong wave but still allow for surfing or swimming. Therefore if you see whole red flag, please stop any water activities.

Next we visited lookout point Promthep Cape.

Look! This is how a dog relax under such hot burning day! =P

Wat Chalong, one of the oldest temple in Phuket.

We even visited to cashew nut factory. Gained some experience on how to get cashew nut from their shells. Stopped by and bought some cashew nuts biscuits as souvenirs for family and friends. It really tastes good.

Another lookout point to see the Phuket city. I named this place as "monkey home" because I can see those monkeys stay in this lookout point. They neither afraid of human nor dogs! I even saw them chasing a dog!

Next we headed to Tung Kae Seafood restaurant for dinner. This restaurant famous of its delicious and fresh seafood, as well as reasonable price. We sat near to the beach, but unfortunately it was low tide that time and we only got to see those empty fishing boat on the mud.. =P

Morning glory.

Steamed fish.

Local typed tom yam soup.

Chilli Mud crab.

After dinner, we spent about 1 hour in the car to Fantasea show. For those who going to visit Fantasea, buy cheaper admission ticket from local agency. It is always bargain-able. Some agency even provides FREE land transfer to and from hotel.

For buffet lovers, that's a good opportunity to enjoy both Thai and International buffet at Golden Kinnaree Buffet restaurant. The capacity of the restaurant can be up to 4000 people.

You would able to capture moment with lovely baby animals before the show starts. We choose to take a picture with tiger cub. It is lovely when it is not bite! =P Dun worry, they won't bite as long as you don't hurt them. ^_^

Phuket Trip Day 1: Phi Phi Island

2010-12-25T23:00:00.001+08:00

10 July & 11 July 2010

In fact, this Phuket trip is my 2009 Christmas gift from my bf. That's mean he booked the round trip airticket almost half year ago. I truly love to travel and a pair of air tickets is always the GREATEST gift in my life! ^_^

We arrived at Phuket Internation Airport at 925pm. Mr Wooddy's staff fetched us to our hotel. We booked our tour online through Phuket Easy Tour. Mr Wooddy, who is this agency's manger, is considerate and patient to all our request. He even provided us free land transfer to airport and hotel.

For the following 4 nights, we stayed at Asialoop G House. It is situated at Southern end of the Patong beach. The hotel is within walking distance to Jungceylon Shopping Complex and night life of Bangla street and Simon Cabaret. It even provides FREE WIFI in the room! The room rate is relatively cheap, and the room is always clean. ^_^

First day morning we went to Phi Phi Island and Khai Island by speed boat. We paid 1500 THB each person. Mr Wooddy's staff fetched us to the pier at Chalong Bay around 8am. From there, we departed to Phi Phi Ley for swimming and sightseeing at Maya Bay together with other tourists. Maya Bay is popular for diving and has become more popular after the movie "The Beach" has filmed here in 2000.

After sightseeing at Pileh Cove and Viking Cave, snorkeling session starts at Loh Samah Bay. I don't know how to swim, even phobia to the sea. Therefore I never get to snorkeling. =(

We had our lunch at Phi Phi Don and tour guide gave us 1 hour to stroll around at Phi Phi market. They mainly sell craft, swim suits and souvenirs. After a short shopping, we departed to Khai Nok Island. The scenery is great and the beach is clean. We were relaxing on the beach before return to Patong.

In evening, on the way to Bangla Road, we saw stall which selling banana pancake. We tried it and it really tastes delicious! Not so oily. Tastes good.

Here we arrived at Bangla road which is always full of untidy wire system.

We had our dinner at Savoey Seafood restaurant. This restaurant is famous amongst locals, but the price for the seafood is expensive. We found the lobster expensive because it is 180THB per 100 gm.

The ambient is good. We choose to have our dinner indoor because after one day sun-burn at Phi Phi Island.

Chilli crab

Baked white prawn.

Tom yam soup.

Night life at Bangla road.

Merry Christmas 2010

2010-12-24T11:08:00.002+08:00

Tommy Hilfiger Watch

2010-12-19T21:55:00.004+08:00

I am a person who neither sensitive to fashion nor follow trend. I never pamper myself by buying branded product. Until today... ... My watch is needed to replace battery.I have opportunity to take a look on those eye-catching watches displayed in the shop while the shopkeeper tried to replace battery on my old watch. Furthermore there is 10% discount on the watch that I love the most!

I was keep looking at Tommy Hilfiger watch, and give myself thousands of reasons to buy such expensive watch. At the end, I bought it for myself as Christmas present! (What a good excuse! =P) And of course, it burned a big hole in my pocket too! T____T Will be another "surprise" when next month's credit card bill comes... ...

Melbourne Trip: Dandenong Ranges

2010-11-28T09:24:00.002+08:00

[4th May 2010]
As planned, we signed up a half-day local tour to Dandenong Ranges. Since we stayed a bit far from the pickup point, therefore they provided free hotel pick up service at 730am. There were lots of people waiting for boarding and we were one of them. CH grabbed a cup of coffee and bread before we started our journey.

We stopped at Grant's Reserve for second-time breakfast. We were same table with a story writer from Perth. We chatted a lot about her experience and life. Meanwhile we were enjoying delicious home-made Devonshire tea and hot fresh scones with jam and cream. Yummy!

Here comes to the most terrifying session - bird feeding. Why I said terrify? because you will not know whether those birds will bite you when you feed them. They are living in wild.

This is our tour bus.

Next we stopped at Belgrave and took Puffing Billy to Menzies Creek. It is a unique journey through the lush forest ride the restored Australia's oldest operating steam train.

"NO STANDING ON THE WINDOW LEDGE OR BARS"... But....

We were sitting on it! =P

The railway was originally one of five narrow gauge lines of the Victorian Railways opened around the beginning of the 20th century. It runs through the southern foothills of the Dandenong Ranges to Gembrook. Being close to the city of Melbourne and with a post-preservation history spanning over 50 years, the line is one of the most popular steam heritage railways in the world, and attracts tourists from all over Australia and overseas.

The Puffing Billy Railway is kept in operation through the efforts of volunteers of the Puffing Billy Preservation Society, although intensive year-round operations necessitate a small band of paid employees to keep things going behind the scenes.

The railway aims to preserve the line as near as possible to how it was in the first three decades of its existence, but with particular emphasis on the early 1920s.

Next we headed to unique town of Sassafras, renowned for beautiful antiques and local crafts. Here I found the famous tea house - Miss Marples Tea Room.

Here the end of our half-day tour to Dandenong Ranges and the driver sent us back to Melbourne Centre. We stopped just right in front of St Pauls Cathedral and took free tourist bus to "Little Italian".

We were searching high and low for Papa Gino's Italian restaurant and we got it! ^_^

Delicious Italian pizza.

Spagetti in Amatriciana sauce (Bacon in spicy tomato and cream sauce).

After taken our lunch, we walked around city area.

RMIT University.

Old Melbourne Gaol.

I rest on the ground. It is so relaxing. Look, someone is sun-bathing!

Since we were too tired, so we decided back to hotel earlier and rest. Tonight our dinner would be Beef Lasagna, chicken fried rice, and chicken mushroom soup. And tomorrow's breakfast would be apple pie.

Tomorrow morning we will heading back and I will always miss Melbourne. If I could find any chances, I would re-visit to Melbourne again!

Sorry for could not arrange my Melbourne blog entries in sequence due to my laziness... =P Here are the links that will direct you to my trip story.

Melbourne Day 1 (29 Apr 2010)
Melbourne Day 2 (30 Apr 2010)
Melbourne Day 3 (1st May 2010)
Melbourne Day 4 (2nd May 2010)
Melbourne Day 5 (3rd May 2010)

Night Outing at Marina Bay Sands

2010-11-20T09:05:00.000+08:00

This is my first time pay a visit to Marina Bay Sands few months after its opening. It was raining that night. Luckily still manage to capture some stunning night view. Thanks to CH for holding an umbrella whole night while I was capturing photos. =)

Marina Bay Sands from far. Heard from my friend, the lotus-shaped building is actually a theater. It is still under construction.

World's first double Helix Pedestrian bridge

Girls' shopping paradise..

A statue? Nope, he is a human who act like a statue...

Displayed set in the shop... Cool!

On the way back, we saw a group of people were attracted by this rainbow light. Same to me. :P

Inside the car. Heavy traffic congestion on our way home.

Jack's Place, Marina Square

2010-11-13T21:47:00.005+08:00

One week back, I went to have dinner with CH before heading to Marina Bay Sands for photo-shooting. We have came across a lot of restaurants in Marina Square until we decided to take our dinner in this Western food restaurant - Jack's Place. Been heard about the good comments about this restaurant. They serves delicious steak. Unfortunately I cannot eat too much steak because of I am easy get heaty person. Anyway I ordered boneless chicken and CH ordered sizzling steak as main course. We ordered set dinner. Few dishes are included in this set dinner such as garlic breads, soup of the day "corn soup", dessert of the day "strawberry cake" as well as drink (choose between tea / coffee).

Garlic bread + corn soup.

Sizzling steak comes with some carrots, broccolis, cauliflowers, as well as my favorite baked potato. It really forms a great taste when eat the baked potato with sour cream. Nice! ^_^

Grilled boneless chicken with brown sauce comes with baked potato.

Next come to dessert of the day - strawberry cake. The appearance of the cake does not give any surprise to us, but the taste is WOW! Indeed it is fattening, but you can taste the fresh strawberry cream from it.

Last but not least, we end the night with a cup of tea and coffee.

Melbourne Trip: Melbourne City

2010-11-08T20:30:00.000+08:00

[2nd May 2010]

Today we woke up early to return the car and GPS to AVIS car rental company around 830am. Since the car rental company is quite near to Queen Victoria Marke t, we just decided to take our breakfast there. For your information, Queen Victoria market is closed on Monday and Wednesday as well as public holiday like Good Friday, Anzac Day, Melbourne Cup Day, Christmas Day, Boxing Day and New Year’s Day.

This American doughnut is highly recommended by friend. Look at the queue, you will know how famous it is. It only has strawberry flavored. It tastes good but not surprise. Should give it a try because it is different from normal doughnut that can be get in Singapore/Malaysia.

This is how the American doughnut looks like..

We bought fish oil at Pharmacy near to Victoria market. This pharmacy gives a reasonable price + good comment for us. I forgot the name of the shop. Fish oil is comparably cheap in Australia. Therefore I bought one for myself. Hardly can find such a good price in Singapore/Malaysia.

We had to return to hotel to keep fish oil and some souvenirs, else it is quite difficult for us to travel whole day with holding 2 big packets of souvenirs... ^_^ The transportation in Melbourne is convenient and good. Without paying any money, we already reached at Melbourne city area. Please check on this page on how to travel in Melbourne without paying any dollars.

We took tourist bus and stopped at Flinders station (just right in front of St. Paul's Cathedral). We decided to travel around Melbourne city by foot and Flinders station is our starting point. We walked pass a lane. The unique of this lane is its wall. The wall full of 'drawings'.

We reached Chinatown, which is in the junction of Little Bourke street and Russell street. At here, we were looking for reliable tour agency as well as cheaper half-day tour package. Well, we choose APT and tomorrow we will go for a half day trip at Dandenong Ranges. The AUD 75 tour package includes breakfast, Puffing Billy steam train ticket and free courtesy hotel pick up.

We had our lunch at a Chinese restaurant. I was getting bored eating Fish & Chips. I started missing rice. :P

After lunch we walked to Fitzroy Garden. The weather is nice! Cooling~ and we passed by Parliament House. We saw a lot of couples was taking their pre-wedding photos or ceremony photos in that area. This is because of Victorian Marriage Registry just nearby. ^_^

Finally we were at Fitzroy Garden. In the garden, you would be able to visit Cook's cottage. The admission price is just AUD 4.50. You can still have further discount by showing them brochure that you get from visitor information center (as I mentioned in this page).

It is originally situated in Great Ayton, Yorkshire, England. The cottage was brought to Melbourne by Sir Russell Grimwade in 1934. Each brick of the cottage was numbered individually, packed into barrels and shipped to Australia.

And he is Captain Cook!

The Garden!! I love this garden!!! ^_^

After lazying for about 1 hour in the garden, we took city circle tram to Docklands Waterfront City. It is some sort like a pier. Berthing can be arranged with Marina office. The scenery is nice.

New Quay Promenade.

The sky was getting dark that time although it was just 6pm. We walked back to hotel since it is just nearby. On the way we saw a lot of unique architectures on the road. For example, the unknown thing showed in the picture below. =)

A cow on the tree?!

Tonight's dinner - NANDOS!!!! This restaurant is quite famous in Malaysia and hardly can find one in Singapore. So it is CH's first time in Nandos!!! :P

Tomorrow we were heading to Dandenong Ranges!!!! ^_^

Melbourne Trip: 12 Apostles & Phillip Island

2010-11-01T20:01:00.001+08:00

[1st May 2010]
Today we woke up early, so that we able to reach Phillip Island before night falls. We stopped at our most-awaiting destination "12 Apostles" awhile. The wind was strong and cold. In this moment, I can't wait to expose to sunlight to get some warm.. :P Twelve Apostles no longer 12. Due to wave action eroding the cliff face, 12 apostles becomes 7 apostles. T___T

After that, we spent 3 hours road trip to Queenscliff. From Queenscliff, we took ferry to Sorrento. We have to make sure we manage to reach Queenscliff at 11am, else we have to waste another 2 hours while waiting for next schedule. Normally there is 1 ferry per hour. Unfortunately there was construction on going during our visit, so schedule has been changed. For more information, please click HERE. We were able to on board safely..

Next we headed to Maru Koalas & Fauna Park to visit my lovely koala Maru.. This is a really good place to see koalas or other animals in a very close distance.. Anyway you are not allowed to hug koalas for photo shooting. Entrance fee for this park is AUD 15 per person. Just pay extra AUD 1 for the food to feed kangaroos and pony.

I am very excited yet scared when I saw those kangaroos jumping toward me. They are almost same height as me. They are able to put their front legs on my shoulder. Luckily there is a fence between us. By the way you can freely walk inside the park.. no door is locked.. After get myself ready, I finally walked inside the kangaroos park to feed them food. Hoo! It's really fun!

The Koala, Maru.

The eggs look like fake but it is real.. this is emus' egg.

Albino Western Grey Kangaroo

Little pony

After that, we move on to Phillip Island. Since the day still early for Penguin Parade, we headed to Phillip Island Winery for late afternoon tea as well as wine tasting. I am not a good wine taster, therefore not eligible to comment anything about the wine. But indeed it is another good experience to me! Love it!

Having late afternoon tea at winery. I like the bread more than those precious cheese... :P

Finally come to Penguin Island. Entrance fee around AUD22. Strolled around the souvenir shop and grab some penguin magnets. By the way no camera / videa camera are allowed during the show. So sorry, no PHOTOS taken during the show.

We are allowed to get into the waiting area to wait for the penguin home 1 hour before the show starts. The weather was getting cold. After the sky turn dark, a thousand wild Little Penguins emerge from the sea and march across the beach to their sand dune burrows. This is really impressive!
We headed back to Melbourne city after the parade. By the way don't forget to look up to the sky. You will get to see thousands of stars shining on the sky... Some even form milky way.. it is really attractive! ^_^ Love the night in Phillip Island!

Photo of Mummy & Baby

2010-10-14T21:36:00.004+08:00

I did another baby photo shooting for my friend during the time I back to my hometown for short holiday. I did my 1st 'baby shoot' when baby Tiffany was 4 months old. And now she is 14 months old. Compared to previous gathering, she is still adorable but... too energetic. I would say this will be tough for me since she learns to run.

Let see my favorite photos:

Mid Autumn Celebration | Photography

2010-09-30T21:03:00.007+08:00

I love to learn different kind of photography techniques. Due to interest, I always spend some times in gaining photography skill. Especially like to shoot low-light pictures. Love to capture city light, street light, people gathering, and etc. This really takes a lot of hard work and effort.

During mid autumn festival, get myself ready mentally and physically and headed to Clark Quay. It is one of the good places for night time photo-shooting. Should not miss the opportunity to practice.

Clark Quay ♥ Night Life

Clark Quay ♥ Fountain

Clark Quay ♥ Riverside

Clark Quay ♥ Mid Autumn decoration

Had a surprised birthday for my friend. We visited Chinese garden during the same period. Everywhere are red lantern. A really great environment for gathering. We laughed, we shouted, and we played sparklers near the lake... Everything just peaceful..

Chinese garden ♥ Light bulb

Chinese garden ♥ Full moon night

Chinese garden ♥ 7th floor pagoda

Chinese garden ♥ drawing with sparklers

2010 Formula 1 | Singapore Grand Prix

2010-09-29T21:05:00.005+08:00

Able to get 2 free tickets to Formula 1. Seek advice from friend before headed to destination. We did not manage to get FREE ear plug on the spot, so headphone becomes our only option. Too bad, it did not help at all when the race starts. Cover my ears with my hands would be more effective... T__T

It was really crowded. We managed to watch different of perfomances at Padang. The performance was full of surprise!

Melbourne Trip: Great Ocean Road

2010-09-20T13:36:00.003+08:00

[30 April 2010]

After having our breakfast at MacD, we departed to our most awaiting destination - Great Ocean Road!!! Since it was not peak season that time, we decided to start our journey in Great Ocean Road without booking any accommodation. Sounds exciting right! If we are not manage to get a hostel along Great Ocean Road, I think we might sleep inside the car or camp near the beach... hehehe... :P

We rented car for 2 days including insurance and 2 days GPS rental. Without GPS, I think we could not reach our planned destination smoothly... It is exciting as it is our first time driving in other country without learning their road sign/rule....

After buy some snack/food/drink and double-checked our luggage, we start our journey to Geelong! ^_^ Roughly introduce our few stops along the Great Ocean Road - Geelong -> Lorne -> Kennet River -> Apollo Bay -> Port Campbell.

First we stopped at Geelong. I love this place especially the beach! It is interesting to stroll past the sculptured bollards dotted along the foreshore.

This beautiful church is not in our attraction list actually, but it is really catch our attention on our way towards Torquay. It is St. Mary of the Angels which situated in Geelong town. If you're interested to know more about it, please go to this website. Highly recommended to visit this place if you have ample of time.

On the way to Apollo Bay, we stopped at few points that also not in our travel list.. The scenery along the Great Ocean Road is fabulous! Even this lake is also uniquely beautiful... If we were not rushing out of time (in order to get a acommodation), I would spend more time to stroll around this small lake or have a picnic.. :P

The landmark of Great Ocean Road. Actually this is the starting point of Great Ocean Road.

The famous small white house which situated in Lorne. I don't know who is the owner, looks like no one is in the house but it is really well-maintained.

We reached in Lorne town around 1pm for lunch. Again, I have my fish-n-chip as lunch since everyone say that it is famous in Melbourne. Well, I think I afraid of eating fish after the trip.. :P

After lunch, we found Italy's famous Gelato ice-cream. Must try because it is cheaper compared to Singapore. Furthermore it has more flavour to choose. ^_^

Next our destination is Kennet's river. Mission looking for wild koalas is completed!! Koala was too shy to show off himself/herself, so I only manage to capture his/her buttock. :P

Another breathtaking view!! I really wish to extend my trip because of this incredible scenery! ^_^

The 13 000-hectare Otway National Park, with its towering rainforest trees, straddles the Great Ocean Road. Finally we reached Apollo Bay in late afternoon. We were not manage to see the Cape Otway light house, but we managed to see the wild koalas again on top of the tree and wild kangaroo jumped fast and furious when our car passed by.

we arrived at Port Campbell town around 6pm. We have to find a place to hide as fast as possible because it is getting cold outside.

Almost dark out there and the weather was freezing cold. Fortunately we managed to get a hostel with cheaper rate after comparing the rate with other hostels. We stayed a night at Port Campbell Best Western Great Ocean Road Motor Inn with the rate AUD95. The room is mainly made of woods. Small but comfortable and clean. It is well-maintained and well-prepared inside the room. Toilet, bathroom, kichenette, sofa, air-cons, TV, and etc.. are all inside the room. It is recommendable to stay here.

Our dinner of that night : Fish-n-chips (again?!) and HUGE beef burger.

Love the environment outside the room too! Chairs are prepared for those who love to see sunrise or sunset. Playground is also prepared for travellers who come with kids.

And next, we headed to the highlight of the trip - 12 Apostles!!!! ^_^

A Day at Singapore Zoo

2010-07-21T19:34:00.005+08:00

I totally cannot remember when I have been to Sg zoo, but in a corner of my memory I know i have been there twice... It was a raining day for last 2 visits to Sg zoo... Very "suay" (bad luck in Hokkien)..

Again, last Saturday I visited to Sg zoo without paying any entrance fee... hehehe... yes! it is FREE OF CHARGE!!! ... By the way, it was drizzling day... T____T Luckily it stopped after 1 hour. I managed to see all animals that live here, but I have no enough time for show performance.. Hmmm.. Never mind, I should have chance to visit Sg Zoo again... hopefully... ^_^

Different types of Monkeys...

White Tiger

Manatee feeding time...

My "family" - Lion (LEO)... hehehe...

Giant turtle... hugeeeeeeeeee~~~

Lonely orang utan... it looks sad...

Leopard... I wish I am as strong as it!!!! *roarrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrr*

Elegant lady - Giraffe

Melbourne City

2010-06-25T22:19:00.011+08:00

[28 - 29 April 2010]

Finally I was able to visit Melbourne by planning everything in budget!!! Thanks to Jetstar. The journey to Melbourne was extremely tiring due to long hours sitting in the aeroplane without any FREE entertainment or FREE drink. Luckily we brought tiny netbook on board which can entertain us for about 4 hours. No direct flight from Singapore to Melbourne during my visit. ="= We had to transfer via Darwin.

Reached Melbourne airport around 12pm (Melbourne time). We spent AUD 26 (round trip) on skybus. By taking skybus, it will transfer us to Southern Cross station. From there, we can take FREE mini bus to our hotel. Do find more information in this website.

We choose not to wait for mini bus. It takes about 10 mins walk from Southern Cross station to our hotel. The weather was cold with little rain. Prayed for tomorrow will be better weather.

We booked for 5 nights at Travelodge Docklands. We booked it with promotion price due to newly open since Feb 2010. The environment is clean and neat but the location is a bit far from attractions.

We headed to Franklin Street to rent car after checked in hotel. Without spending any dollars in transportation, we can travel in Melbourne city.

First by taking FREE circle tram No 35.

Second by taking FREE tourist shuttle bus.

Last but not least, by F-O-O-T.... :P

We had late lunch at Mimo cafe. Ordered a really big portion of Fish & chips and burger.

After recharge ourselves, we headed to visitor information center. Remember grab a FREE Melbourne map and some discount coupons that attached in brochure.

St. Pauls Cathedral

Federation Square

Old Flinders station

Next we walked to Yarra River and Crown Casino.

We went back hotel early due to cold weather. We have to rest early tonight because tomorrow would be very fun. Yes! We are going for a road trip along Great Ocean Road! ^_^

Shanghai(上海)

2010-06-06T21:54:00.006+08:00

[Feb 19, 2010]

Should never miss Xin Tian Di (新天地) at Shanghai. It is one of the nicest areas to go at night. Don't miss the brasilian barbeque restaurant. After dinner, have a nice drink at any bars around.

One of the most famous structure in Shanghai and the cradle of typical Shanghai snacks, is the elegant built Town God Temple (Cheng Huang Temple - 城隍庙). As local Shanghainese believe that, under the protection of Town God, they could be empowered to live peacefully and make a prosperous future. Today, Town God Temple become a very popular site for visitors from all over the world. Other than temple fair and worship, it's also been used as a nice place for shopping and dinning. Nowadays there are more than one hundred small shops and restaurants and the products on sell are countless.

At night, we went to Oriental Pearl Tower (东方明珠塔). The tower is 468 m high, the highest in Asia and the third highest in the world. There is a revolving teahouse and a sightseeing platform, which can accommodate 1600 people in the largest ball. Here visitor can get a panoramic view of the Bund and Pudong New area.

Another new attraction in the list is Shanghai wax museum (上海风情蜡像馆). People may think that it is similar like Madame Tussauds. In fact it is different. The wax museum only displays the ancient lifestyle of Shanghainese.

The next day we went for last minute shopping at Tao Bao Cheng (淘宝城) before heading back to Malaysia. It is definitely a great place to grab for cheap souvenirs like key chains, magnets, T-shirt with the word "Shanghai", baby clothes, lugagges, dress, and etc.

HangZhou(杭州) - Shanghai(上海)

2010-05-19T20:03:00.004+08:00

[Feb 18, 2010]
It is really enjoyable to take a boat ride at West Lake (西湖). Xī Hú is a famous fresh water lake located in the historic center of Hangzhou, in Zhejiang province of eastern China. The lake is divided by the causeways of Sū Tí (苏提 / 蘇堤) , Bái Tí (白堤), and Yánggōng Tí (杨公堤 / 楊公堤).

We headed toward green tea plantation. Famous green tea in HangZhou named LongJing (龙井).

Everywhere in HangZhou looks like a painting. So amazing!

On the way to Shanghai, we passed by WuZhen (乌镇). Wuzhen's uniqueness lies in its layout, being divided into six districts. These are: traditional workshops district, traditional local-styled dwelling houses district, traditional culture district, traditional food and beverage district, traditional shops and stores district, and water township customs and life district.

Another boat ride at WuZhen. You should not miss it! ^_^

It's already 6pm when we reached Shanghai. Sunset earlier during winter and it is freaking cold at night... It is not advisable to stroll around under such killing weather. By the way, the tour guide brought us to NanJing shopping street (南京路步行街) after dinner. Mum and I was hiding ourselves inside the shop. At least we feel warm there. :P

We stayed in this hotel for 2 nights because tomorrow we will only stay in Shanghai! No more moving from town to town...

NanJing(南京) - HangZhou(杭州)

2010-05-15T20:35:00.008+08:00

[Feb 17, 2010]

The 1st stop of the day and also the last stop in NanJing (before headed to HangZhou) was Dong Shui Guan Gate (东水关城墙遗址). I am not really understand the history of the gate. I think you can find more in website if you're interested. :P

We spent about 3-4 hours journey from NanJing to HangZhou. It was really a tiring move, but it is alright for me as long as the heater is on in the bus. :P We visited HangZhou Grand Theatre (大剧院). It is designed by internationally known Canadian architect Carlos Ott. and it covers 100,000 square meters with a total construction area of 55,000 square meters. It consists of an opera house, a concert hall, a multifunction hall, an open air stage and a culture square.

Hangzhou International Conference Center (国际会议中心) is one of three symbolic buildings of Qianjiang New CBD axis line. The artistic waterscape has 5 programs. Sector waterscape integrates with buildings and roads.

From City Terrace (城市阳台), you can see HangZhou Bay Bridge (杭州湾大桥). HangZhou Bay Bridge is a long highway bridge with a cable-stayed portion across Hangzhou Bay in the eastern coastal region of China. It connects the municipalities of Jiaxing and Ningbo in Zhejiang province.

We headed for dinner at Ba Guo Bu Yi (巴国布衣). Its name translates as "Sichuan Common People," which describes both the restaurant's style of food and the local clientele it attracts. The menu is a greatest hits of Sichuan cuisine, including mapo tofu, braised tofu with chili and brown pepper, and lazi ji (chicken smothered in chili peppers). Furthermore there is mask changing (变脸秀) performance on the stage every night.

After dinner, we strolled around at West Lake Xin Tian Di (西湖新天地) in cooling night. You can find a lot of restaurant or coffee shop (like starbucks / coffee bean) here.

That night we enjoyed 1 hour West Lake Cultural Show (西湖之夜文化表演). This show is really impressed me. Contented with the myths and legends of the West Lake, the show leads you to a sweet thousand-year dream.The special concealable auditorium provides a wide and bird’s-eye view. Show time: 19:45-21:00.

Checked in hotel after end of the show. Must have a great sleep because tomorrow I will move to Shanghai. ^_^

WuXi(无锡) - NanJing(南京)

2010-05-12T20:19:00.007+08:00

[Feb 16, 2010]

Take a traditional boat ride at TaiHu Lake(太湖) is another MUST-DO activity. Taihu Lake is the third largest freshwater lake in China. It is located in the southern part of the Yangtze River. It is a famous scenic spot in China and is famed for its lake, its hills and its splendid man-made scenery.

Next we visited Fisherman Island (渔夫岛) and XiShi Island (西施岛) Island. It is a secret lake for XiShi living place, a 2400 years legend of the manor. Bo Gong Dao Garden (渤公岛公园) is also one of the attractions at WuXi. I nearly cannot recognize every garden visited because they are almost similar.. :P

After lunch, we headed to NanJing (南京). NanJing always makes me think about the movie "NanJing Massacre 南京大屠杀". This time I have opportunity to visit this memorial hall. It is sorry to listen every stories that stated inside the hall.

NanJing Yangtze River Bridge (南京长江大桥) is the first bridge to be built across the Yangtze River in Nanjing, China. It was completed in 1968 and is the first double-decker, double-track highway and railway bridge designed and constructed by the Chinese without outside engineering assistance.

At night we headed to Confucious Temple street (夫子庙步行街) for shopping. There is a suitable place for you to grab for your souvenirs.

Check in hotel after dinner. It was definitely a torturing night in hotel. Outside was snowing non-stop. Inside the room, no matter how I higher the temperature of heater, my mum and I still shivered. Until the next day morning, we found out that we forgot to close one of the small window. ="= I promise never miss any windows during snowing night anymore...

Postcard from Melbourne

2010-05-08T23:53:00.006+08:00

Just received a postcard from Melbourne. Not from my friends or relatives, but from myself.. hehehehe... I have been visited Melbourne last week. The weather is nice! Would advise my friends visit to Melbourne around April - May. Cooling. ^_^ By the way, I have been sick for 3 days after trip due to the unexpected change weather. ="=

LOVE Melbourne very much! ♥ its garden! ♥ its building! ♥ its weather! ♥ this greenish land! ♥ its EVERYTHING! ^_^ I wish I can visit Melbourne again~

SuZhou(苏州) - WuXi(无锡)

2010-05-07T20:12:00.007+08:00

[Feb 15, 2010]

Our 1st stop of the day was Lotus Garden (耦园). It is listed as one of the UNESCO World Heritage site. Take a grinder boat ride to visit Lotus Garden is the most advisable. Boat owner will even sing for you. Remember to give some tips to express appreciation.

After that we headed to silk factory. Inside factory, there are not just demostration on how the silk forming, but also fashion show. Of course, you also can find silk pillow, silk blanket, and etc here. From their explanation, silk has a lot of advantages to our health. But then the price is really scare me. >_<

We headed to WuXi after lunch. 1st stop in WuXi was Li Garden(蠡园). The lake of the Li Garden ripples gently and green hills stand in the distance. Long corridors, embankment, arbors, pavilions in the garden are all engraved with elegant and colored drawing.

Next destination would be Lingshan grand buddha(灵山大佛). The giant buddha is named by its location which is Lingshan Mountain. The Mountain was so named by Tang Xuanzang, a Tang-dynasty Buddhist Monk whose pilgrimage trip to India is well-known throughout the Chinese history.

FanGong(梵宫) is also one of the attraction on Lingshan mountain. It has splendid design and architecture. Must cover your shoes with the cloth before entering in oreder to maintain cleanliness. I guess, this action is also one kind of respect to this place.

After dinner, we stayed a night at WuXi and then tomorrow would be headed to NanJing. The hotel room is great and clean.

Pudong airport (浦东机场) - SuZhou (苏州)

2010-04-25T22:02:00.008+08:00

[Feb 14, 2010]

Mum and I departed from Penang Internation Airport to Shanghai on Feb 14. That day was the 1st day of Chinese New Year, as well as Valentine's Day. Apologise to my dear because not able to celebrate with him in this special day. But anyway I know he won't mind when he got so many souvenirs from me! :P

My mum was extremely excited and worried. She was excited because she got to travel again after 2 years (Taiwan trip). She was worried when she heard that it is snowing in Shanghai that day. Me? I am excited because of crystal white snow! I curious to know how it looks like. I curious to know how cold it will be. I can't wait to throw snow ball towards other people. :P

My mind changed once touched down at PuDong airport and waited for our tour bus outside the airport. The wind was so cold. ICY COLDddddddd! I shivered although I wore winter clothes. But I know this won't keep me warm because I have not put on my long-john yet. Arrrrrrhhhhhh!

On our way to SuZhou, whole trip was so excited when we saw snow on the ground. Snow here and there. Believe me, you will treat it as treasure before you see it in real. Once you know it, you will see it no different as shaved ice. :P It is extremely cold inside the bus. I wondered why the driver never turn on the heater. Finally someone in the bus started to complain. And now we know why the driver does not want to turn on the heater. Based on his experiences, he thought that people from Malaysia or Singapore normally afraid of hot. ="= I could not imagine if no one complain, will he still turn on the air-cons under such cooling weather?

Bus suddenly broke down on the way to SuZhou. Everyone played on the snow outside while driver repairs the bus. I touched the snow! I touched the snow! ^_^ I nearly cannot move my fingers after held the snow in my hand for some time and my body started to shiver again. Struggling journey in the bus.

Day time is short during winter, therefore started to turn dark around 6pm. I thought tour guide send us to hotel since he knew that all of us were not used to cold weather here yet. I thought he will let us rest earlier that night. In fact, it is NOT! I still have to continue the sightseeing with struggling heart. T_____T I wanna go home!

First we visited Harmony Time Square (圆融时代广场). Inside has the longest and biggest screen above the mall. The main purpose for this visit is shopping, but unfortunately most of the shops closed due to holiday (~~or because we were late?~~)

Next we moved on to SuZhou Science & Culture Art Centre (苏州科技文化艺术中心). It is also known as 'Bird's Nest'. It looks the same as the one in Beijing. Yes, because both of the bird's nest are designed by the same person. This building was right next to the Golden Chicken Lake. The entire area lights up at night. Suzhou is called the Silicon Valley of the East.

After this, we finally can take a rest in hotel. This hotel room is great and warm enough to melt my icy cold body. :P

Have a sweet dream~

I ♥ Snow

2010-04-19T21:27:00.007+08:00

By taking only 3 days annual leaves, I would be able going to China for 1 week during Chinese New Year. By the way it is not advisable visit to China during that period because it is ~~freaking~~ cold!!!! It is I-C-Y COLD!!! Help!!! I hardly can breathe/walk under such chilly weather. Almost frozen when the wind blows towards me. I cried inside my heart "I wanna go home. Can Anyone send me home?" T______T

Snow @ SuZhou 苏州

Anyway I saw snow. Yup, I saw real S-N-O-W. I almost lost my mind when I first grabbed the snow in my bare hand. I looked at the snow again and again. Why the snow look the same as the shaved ice?! @_@ Suddenly ais kacang come across my mind. :P

Snow @ WuXi 无锡

The coldest moment during winter is when the snow start to melt, but not when the snow fall from the sky. Very coincidentally, snow started falling down at the night we flew over Shanghai and it melted when I was there for 1 week. >_<

Snow @ NanJing 南京

Snow @ Shanghai 上海

Izakaya

2010-04-15T20:17:00.008+08:00

Izakaya (Japanese: いざかや ♥ Chinese: 居酒屋) is traditional shop which serves food and drinks. It is popular and relatively cheap place for after-work drinking. My first time visit to Izakaya is also my last day working in Japan. Yea, you're right. I've completed my 3 months work/training and force to leave my favourite country - Japan. T__________T

Although I ~~sometimes~~ always grumble about the tough working life, Japan is still a country that I'm longing to visit. Within these 3 months, have been gone through sweet and tough moment.
Sweet because of Hokkaido / Kyoto / Izu Peninsula short trip. Of course have been visited most of the tourist attraction in Tokyo. Have been stayed in different types of backpackers hostel/Youth hostels. Also have a good time when I saw endless lavender farm as well as enjoying King Crab feast in Hokkaido trip. Able to fulfill my dream by taking number of photos with geisha in Atami trip (First attempt failed in Kyoto trip). Bought my 1st DSLR in Akihabara. My birthday celebration in dormitory.
Tough because of work for 5 days OT per week. Everyday walk about 20 mins to office (even experience the scary Typhoon No. 8). Squeezed ourselves into the train in order to get to destination. Spent too much and make ourselves in tough situation at Ameyoko (Nearly cannot return to dormitory. Btw thanks to CREDIT CARD!) During the stay in Japan, I wore the same clothes because ~~can't afford to buy even one dress~~ not really keen on japan fashion.

Well, please come back to Izakaya. 2009-10-16 ♥ Our ~~farewell~~ ganbatte party with my colleagues in Tokyo. We still have to continue our task when we return to Sg. ="= Really great to visit Izakaya before we left. They serves a lot of food and drinks such as,

Yakitori & Kushiyaki

Sashimi (Wow!!!!!)

and other dishes...

All the best to you all!!!!

Izu Peninsula Day 3

2010-04-11T22:50:00.006+08:00

[Oct 12, 09]

This would be the last short trip in Japan before we headed back to Sg. We had completed our work in Japan. We were so much reluctant to leave Izu. It looks like an isolated place that give us a getaway in our hectic life. If I have chance to choose, I wish I can stay longer in Izu (BUT NOT FOREVER).

We woke up late that day. We did not rush throughout the trip. As usual, I looked out of the window once I woke up. That day I found out the weather is specially good and the sea is calm. I love the peace of Izu. I wish I could visit here one day!

You would easily find the chestnut and persimmon in Autumn.

Bye, Izu!

Izu Peninsular Day 2

2010-04-03T21:00:00.007+08:00

[Oct 11, 09]

We normally stay in hostel during the time in Japan because the hostel price is affordable. Hotel in Japan is incredible expensive. Don't expect too much if you choose hostel. Normally have to share bathroom with other tourists. Some hostels provide shower form/shampoo, but some are not. So better prepare own shower form/shampoo/towel before the trip starts. Staying in hostel has its pros and cons. We got to know friends from any other countries and shared travel experiences with each others.

Anyway day 2 in Izu. We woke up quite late since we don't want to rush ourselves in this trip. Journey started by taking local train to Shimoda station. And then took Tokai bus to Dogashima. From Shimoda station to Dogashima, it takes about 1 hour. It's long and exhausted journey. But you would forget about all your tiredness once you reach there.

The coastline of Dogashima in Western Izu is famous for its dramatic stone formation, cliffs and caves, formed by the lava flow of past volcanic eruptions and the erosion by the sea.

We took the sightseeing boat to tour around. It takes about 20 minutes. After this, we spent some times sit under the tree and looked at the scenery. A trip without rushing time is really fun. That's why we spent whole afternoon at only Dogashima.

In the late afternoon, we headed back to Shimoda station before we missed the last bus. We walked around the Shimoda town. Shimoda has historical importance as the landing place of several of Commodore Perry's "black ships" in 1854, an event which marked the end of Japan's era of isolation and the start of diplomatic relations between the US and Japan.

Second night in Izu. We still stayed in the same hostel. There are special event on going that night at Usami. Everyone in the town was very excited. Both of us are the only foreigners who watched the event.

Izu Peninsula Day 1

2010-03-31T20:35:00.018+08:00

[Oct 10, 09]

We choose Izu Peninsula as our last trip in Japan. It is nearer from our dormitory and easy to get there by local train (no more Shinkansen), B-U-T it is still expensive! Not many foreigners will consider visit Izu. Only locals know about this place. When you need a place to hide or if you like nature, Izu definitely a good choice!

We stopped at Atami. Why Atami? Honestly we were really disappointed during the time in Kyoto because we only managed to see geisha's BACK (Please refer to this entry). Therefore this time we will not let ourselves down. No more! We were going to Atami Geisha Centre to look for geisha!

On our way, we kept on asking locals about Atami Geisha Centre until we managed to find it. Yes! we are here! We already here for Geisha! We were excited like kids (jumping up and down like jelly fish).

Admission fee: 1300 Yen (we got 100 Yen discount!) ^_^

Refreshment: cake + a cup of green tea. (Don't worry. All included in admission fee)

Finally we saw geisha on the stage. We found the performance really funny because we don't understand at all. All around us are aunties and uncles. We are the youngest one! ^_^ and also the silly one. ="= Paying 1200 Yen just to see geisha, but anyway it is cheap compared to those geisha centre in Kyoto.

Even more exciting, we got the chance to take few photos with them. Hahahaaha..

After performance, we walked to Atami Castle. The weather just nice for walking. Sunny but not hot. Windy but not so cold. We saw a pair of husband and wife fishing near Atami beach. How relaxing they are! Erm, how to control myself not to think about those irritating project? Don't care. I should make use of my time in Izu.

Took cable car up to the hill and saw such superb panoramic view of ocean. We had our prawn udon here. The scenery is breathtaking! We decided not to go to Atami Castle because we would like to spend more time in this place.

After that we returned to Atami station and strolled around at the market. They sell a lot of dried food and souvenirs.

Before turn dark, we have to get to our hostel at Usami. We took local train to Usami station. Usami is a small town. Once we reached this station, we hardly can find anyone else on the road. Seems like NO-ONE town.

We check-in at Onsen Minshuku Otsuka. This hostel not as cheap as in Hokkaido, and also not as good maintenance as in Hokkaido. B-U-T hostel owner is really kind. ^_^ He can speaks English, but not fluently. He offered to fetch us to their so-called night market (pasar malam) for dinner.

Just right in front of this hostel, it is Usami beach. We are surprised to see many people were surfing near the beach. Why in such cold weather?! Getting cold at evening. We shivered while sit on the beach.

I LOVE IZU!!!

At night, we had our Unagi rice at one of japanese restaurant. Oishi!!

As I mentioned, Usami beach just right in front of our hostel. There is highway in between the beach and hostel. That's why we can hear the car racing sound especially midnight. Kick away those noise, just concentrate ourselves to those beautiful wave sound. Night at Usami is boring. Nothing much to visit during night time. No Starbucks. No Coffee Bean. No internet cafe. All shops and restaurants closed around 7pm. After 7pm, we rotted in our hostel room. Normally foreigner excited to put on the Yukata that prepared by the hotel/hostels. We also the same. Since the night is boring, the only activity for us is to put on the Yukata and take photos! ^_^ Of course, our silly act photos cannot be published in the blog. :P

I wish

2010-03-10T22:08:00.005+08:00

I wish,
one day when I wake up, I sleep in my own dream house but not rented room.

I wish,
one day when I wake up, my saving suddenly becomes 7 digits.

I wish,
one day when I wake up, no need worry about tonnes of work.

I wish,
one day when I wake up, I drive BMW to work.

I wish,
one day when I wake up, I just need to plan for trip but not work schedule.

I wish,
one day when I wake up, I no need to face those irritating faces or unfair incidents.

I wish,
one day I strike the 1st prize in TOTO or 4D.

I wish,
one day when I wake up, it is beautiful cooling day, but not freaking hot day!!

I think,
I think too much tonight.
It's time to sleep......

Tokyo Disney Sea

2010-01-24T21:53:00.005+08:00

[Oct 3, 09]

I would regret if I never visit to Tokyo Disney Sea before I return to Sg. This time before visit to Disneysea, I must make sure I have entry ticket. I don't want the same thing happen to me again (Refer to this blog). Why we choose Oct 3 to Disneysea? no special reason. It is because we only left 2 weekends before we left Japan!!! By the way, see what a 'GOOD' day we choose. It was raining non-stop that day. T__T

There are 7 uniquely themed areas in Disneysea such as American Waterfront, Lost River Delta, Port Discovery, Mermaid Lagoon, Arabian Coast, Mediterranean Harbor and Mysterious Island. We were not manage to explore all games due to the bad weather. We played the outdoor game only when the rain was stopped. Most of time we acted silly by wearing all those character series hat. :P

Remember: please stay until night time. You will be amazed by the night at Disneysea. It was so spectacular!

Liew's visit | Jan 1 ~ 3

2010-01-03T21:53:00.006+08:00

SL was taking Tiger Airway to Sg. Initially I have no idea how to pick her up at Budget Terminal because there is no direct bus or MRT to that terminal. Well, internet is really convenient sometimes. From one of the forum, it mentioned that actually got FREE shuttle bus service from Budget Terminal to Terminal 2. Ended up I successfully picked her up at bus station, Terminal 2.

SL was so energetic after reached Terminal 2 and we rushed to United Square after taking lunch at Ya Kun cafe. Why United Square? because SL wants to look for new dress for her baby. :P You can find a lot of baby stuff here.

CH picked us up for dinner. We went to Esplanade after that. It is a good place for those people who want to practise using their DSLR camera. I am one of them. :P I think I need a tripod to capture a still and sharp night landscape. Any sponsor? :P

For the following 2 days, SL and I spent our time in shopping. SL loves to shop in Bugis Street. She found lots of dress she liked. Me too!!! I found my jeans and boots!! Anyway hopefully SL enjoyed her trip in Sg. Hopefully I am a great tour guide to guide you around. ^_^

Ueno Ameyoko

2009-12-26T22:10:00.004+08:00

[Sep 26, 09]

3 weeks left before return to Sg. Weather start turning into Autumn in September. Time flies fast. During the time we came to Japan, it was almost end of Spring. We went through few trips during Summer such as Hokkaido, Kyoto and Tokyo East. We almost finished our cash that we bring to Japan in the first day. However I have kept some cash for my mum's souvenirs - dried scallops and mushrooms.

Therefore we came to Ueno Ameyoko. Here you can find a lot of dried seafood and wasabi nuts which sells in bargainable price. But must always remember, only C-A-S-H is acceptable here! No credit card ok.

After shopping in Ueno Ameyoko, our cash is just enough for the trip back to our hostel. Sounds pity right? Even more pitiful is we had spent all cash on our lunch by mistake. Why? Before we ordered food, we actually did ask in English whether credit card is acceptable in that restaurant and the japanese shop owner just replied us "ok! ok!". So we ate our lunch peacefully. Ended up casher asked for cash in the counter when we were going to pay our bill. -_-''' They misunderstood us in the first place. Hmmm.. luckily credit card is acceptable in purchasing train tickets.

Tokyo Disney Hotel

2009-12-21T14:02:00.005+08:00

[Sep 21, 09]

We had extra 1 day holiday during Japan Silver Week. Unfortunately we were not able to plan for a short trip to Izu Peninsula because most of cheaper hostels are fully-booked. Therefore we postponed the trip to October before we went back to Sg. In these 3-days-long holidays, we just strolled around Tokyo such as Machida, Shibuya, and Tokyo Metropolitan Building. We actually went to DisneySea in the last day of silver week. Yes, we went there! but.... when we reached DisneySea, all tickets have been sold out. -_-''' We learnt our lesson. NEVER visit Disneyland / Disneysea during holiday! NEVER visit Disneyland/Disneysea without ticket booking!

It is disaster! We had spent our money and time travelled from west to south-east of Tokyo. It actually sounds stupid if we just travel back like that. Therefore we spent some time in Tokyo Disney hotel, just right outside the train station.

We have ever think to stay a night in Disney hotel. After searching high and low in the internet for the fare of Disney hotel, we cancelled our plan due to the extremely expensive room rate. Well, maybe I would consider again if I have chance to visit any Disneyland in the world again. But now, N-O!

Just like a dream hotel when stepped in Tokyo Disney Hotel. You would see what it supposed have in Disneyland. Yea, Mickey and Minnie!!! ^_^ Btw it is just a statue. It's good enough for me. I rather take a photo with statue than queuing up for Mickey and Minnie for 1 hour inside the disneyland. :P

Shibuya | Tokyo Metropolitan Building

2009-12-13T09:44:00.004+08:00

[Sep 20, 09]

Have been back from Jp for 2 months, but then I'm still not completely update all my stories/short trip in Japan. Busy on something? I don't think so. My mind always plan of trip. It's alright for me to go for local short trip or overseas trip. After Japan, I'm falling in love on backpacking. Just feel that it is C-O-O-L. :P

Well, back to my story in Jp. We went to Shibuya that weekend. Shibuya - popular disctrict for young generations. Why we were there? Hmmm... just want to see how crowded it is. Just want to see the most busiest pedestrian crossing in Tokyo. Strolled around Shibuya, not buying anything. A lot of boutiques and shopping complexes here.

Tried frozen yogurt here. Tastes good. I tried the one with strawberry and red bean. Sweet and sour combination. Not really like strawberry, but the red bean paste is sweet.

After that we headed to Tokyo Metropolitan Building in order to see the Tokyo view from top for F-R-E-E. Of course can see the Tokyo Tower from far, but then we went to the wrong building which cannot see any sight of Tokyo Tower. -_-''' At first we thought can capture the night view of Tokyo, but when we reached there we found out it's not a good place to capture a night mode photo. Light reflection.

Machida

2009-11-29T19:42:00.007+08:00

[Sep 19, 09]

Getting tired travel around Tokyo. Have to take around 1 hour train to city, furthermore it is always full of people during weekend... hmm... nope, not only weekend but also weekday. This Saturday since I so lazy to make myself to city, so I just strolled around Machida. Just need 15 mins to get there. Nothing much to buy in Machida although there are many souvenir shops. Heard that there are biggest 100 Yen shop in Machida but I couldn't find it. Thought that it will be at the location which can be easily found, but I was wrong. Ended up I still cannot find this biggest 100 Yen shop in Japan.

Kyoto 2D1N - Day 2

2009-11-22T13:34:00.006+08:00

[Sep 6, 09]

Morning we took train from Kyoto station to Inari Station. Once get out of Inari station, will get to see Fushimi Inari Shrine after few mins walk. This place famous for its Torii which leading to inner shrine. For me, i know this place because of the movie "Memoirs of Geisha". Still remember a little girl running under Torii in the movie? It might be takes up to 1 hour to reach the top, so we give up. :P

I tried to run like the girl in movie... hehehee... :P

After that we walked around Kyoto station. Kyoto station actually link with few shopping center. Since we will be taken afternoon Shinkansen back to Tokyo, so for the time being we searched for a famous Japanese restaurant named "中村藤吉". It is famous of its green tea dessert. We nearly failed to find this restaurant.

After dessert, we walked around in the shopping center to grab for the last minute souvenirs for family and friends.

Time for home! =)

Kyoto 2D1N - Day 1

2009-11-22T10:34:00.010+08:00

[Sep 5, 09]

It will be a long journey from Tokyo to Kyoto. By bus, it takes around 7 hours but cheaper. By Shinkansen, it takes only 2 hours but expensive. Therefore we decided to take night bus from Machida, Tokyo to Kyoto station on Sep 4 and come back by Shinkansen.

More information about the bus booking and Shinkansen timetable in Japan:

Bus123 - bus booking

Shinkasen - shinkansen booking / timetable

We reached Kyoto station around 6am in the morning. We felt extremely tired by taking this long-journey bus, but still we have to find our booking hostel - K's House Kyoto. It is not that easy to get to this hostel, but one thing i liked the most is their cleanliness and cozy environment.

After breakfast at hostel and bought the city bus all day pass (500 Yen) at Kyoto station, we headed to Kinkakuji Temple (Golden Pavilion). It is well-known for its gold-coloured architecture which situated at the center of the lake.

And then we took the bus to Nijo-castle. It is quite easy to travel in Kyoto, normally people take bus. Therefore you can see many people squeeze inside the bus during the peak hour. So as us. -_-''' Nijo castle is one of Kyoto's UNESCO world heritage site. We even stepped in the castle and try to imagine how people live inside. Hmmm... must be very boring then.. :P

There are many of temples and shrines in Kyoto. We cannot really visit all of them, so we choose in particular. We passed by Yasaka Shrine before we had our lunch.

After lunch, we headed to Sanjusangendo temple. It is famous for its 33 halls and 1001 statues of Kannon, the godness of mercy. We decided to give ourselves a rest in hostel after this temple visit because we are extremely tired due to long journey traveling. Luckily this temple is near to our hostel.

At first we planned to rest for 1 hour and then headed to Gion to see geisha, but can't believe that it was already 6pm when we woke up. Erm, no doubt we are extremely tired. hehehe... :P Well, we still headed to Gion. Pontocho is Kyoto's nightlife district where might be able to spot geisha. And very lucky we saw 1 passed by us and rushed for her performance. Erm, we only can spot her back. -_-''' That night we had our dinner and green tea dessert in Pontocho.

Update

2009-11-14T23:37:00.004+08:00

I have nearly abandoned this blog. Have been came back from Japan for about 1 month, but my travel diary only update until Aug. Many things happpened after I came back from Japan. First, Went for body checkup and discovered that I have to undergo a surgery. Anyway I'm ok right now. Back to normal again, I think. Second, my passport spoilt due to the leak of antiseptic. I thought I just need to renew my passport during my recovering period in Pg. I thought it just need 1 day to settle this issue but it is NOT. Have to go through many procedures and new passport can only be collected after 1 month for investigation purpose. Well, means I cannot go anywhere within 1 month. Anyway I have settled this too by renewing my passport in Sg. :P Third, overseas medical leaves issue. I'm still thinking how to settle it. Btw wish me good luck. Wish that everything will back to normal asap. ^_^

Photo taken on the way to my company during the time in Japan. Look like blueberries. Unlikely blueberries can be survived along the roadside right?

Autumn is here!

2009-10-09T19:10:00.004+08:00

Cool! Autumn is in Japan now! The weather is so cooling and it is so sunny after typhoon. It is even colder than Genting Highlands. Everything look so calm, right? But not my heart. Arhhhh, I LOVE Autumn in Japan! Suddenly not feel like going back to Sg. How?! ^.^

Typhoon No. 18

2009-10-08T19:04:00.003+08:00

The Typhoon No.8 hit Japan with full force this morning. Our umbrella also spoilt due to the strong wind. Luckily those umbrella are not belongs to us. :P

We walked all the way to our workplace. Normally it takes 20 mins to reach our workplace. Therefore we have 20 mins to 'experience' the typhoon. It is not as serious as what I think. Maybe because my working area is not really near to coast side. Furthermore there is not really heavy rain in this morning. Just strong wind which can push you move forward.. :P

And unbelievable it turns into sunny day after we reached office. ="= Unfortunately I was not able to take any photos when i was in such embrassing situation - untidy hair, wet shoes and clothes... :P

秋天 | 秋雨

2009-10-05T21:29:00.004+08:00

外面好冷，
房里也好冷。
又下雨，又刮大风。
最近几天出街都必须带把伞，
衣服也多穿了几件，
但怎么都抵不过病魔。=”=

每晚走路回家，
总是弄得湿湿的。

在这么冷的季节，
假如有碗东炎汤，多好！
猪骨汤也不错！
哦，好久没喝苦瓜汤了。

看来，我是病傻了。:P

Sanrio Puroland

2009-10-03T07:57:00.012+08:00

[Aug 29, 09]

Sanrio Puroland is also known as Hello Kitty land. It is indoor type theme park. It is a great place for "mature" lady like me who cannot take up too challeging games always... So, NO roller coaster here! :P

The admission ticket for Sanrio Puroland actually have 2 types: Welcome ticket and Passport. Welcome ticket (3000 Yen) is only for entrance and all free shows. Passport (4400 Yen) is for entrance, ALL shows and ALL games. With the discount coupon which you can be get from their website, we have another 300 Yen discount from the actual price. ^.^

First time, I was able to catch ALL rides, play ALL games and watch ALL shows in theme park. You no need worry about the unexpected changes weather because it is indoor theme park.

Hello Kitty in the magical land of Oz [Musical show]

Hello Kitty Black Wonder: Rescue hello kitty and dear Daniel [Game]

Sanrio Character boat ride [Ride]

Cinnamon's secret door [Musical show]

Ge-Ge-Ge No Kitaro [3D show]

Kitty's house

Tokyo O-Edo Museum

2009-09-26T20:02:00.007+08:00

[August 23, 09]

Had been planned for this gathering with Lee Chyi before I went for Hokkaido trip. We met up at Ryogoku station, which is well-known as SUMO town. Once I get out of the train, I saw one BIG guy wearing like a Sumo. He is H-U-G-E to me.. :P

You will be able to see a row of sumo restaurants once you get out of the station.

Lee Chyi and I spent whole afternoon inside the museum and we chat a lot of about our current life. I never know that museum can also be a great place for girl's chit-chat... Anyway this museum is unique. I able to see how ancient people live in Japan and how they develop Tokyo.

we had our lunch at once of the Italian restaurant in the museum. The pasta is delicious.

Enoshima / Kamakura

2009-09-21T13:36:00.010+08:00

[August 22, 09]

We bought 1-day pass from Ebina station. This pass can be used as unlimited boarding ticket for the Enoden train (between Fujisawa station and Kamakura station) and Odakyu train (between Fujisawa station and Katase-Enoshima station). Round trip between departure station and Fujisawa station is allowed only one time. Furthermore this pass can be presented to get further admission discount at some attractions. It costs 1110 Yen from our departure station- Ebina.

After had our early lunch at MacD (the cheapest lunch), we headed to Enoshima Aquarium. The admission fee for Aquarium is actually 2000 Yen. Since we have 1-day pass, we got 200Yen discount on it. We spent about half day in Aquarium.

Next we went to Kotokuin Temple (Great Buddha). We reached there about 3pm+. Due to more time have been spent in Aquarium, we were not able to visit other temples at Kamakura. Another 200 Yen admission fee have to pay for entering Kotokuin temple.

Before we headed back, we passed by Hasedera Temple. We were not able to enter the temple because it closed at 5pm.

There are one souvenir shop near to Hasedera Temple. Those souvenirs are cute and lovely! and... expensive too...

Yokohama

2009-09-19T17:47:00.009+08:00

[Aug 15, 09]

We almost went out every weekend after came to Japan. I am easy-low-batt person. Long journey short trip is not suitable for me. Yokohama definitely a good choice to visit. It near to my dormitory.

We went to Ramen museum which dedicated to the popular noodles dish. There are various kind of souvenirs sell at the 1st floor of museum. At the basement, you can explore some streets or houses of Shitamachi (old town of Japan). It is unique! It is cool!

We had our lunch here. We don't understand Japanese, so we choose the shortest queue. It takes around 20-30 mins to our turn. We ordered Shoyu pork ramen. Erm, at the end we know we choose the wrong one after reached our turn. We should choose Tonkotsu ramen. It is more suitable for us. T_T

After that we went to Minato Mirai (Harbor of the future). The landmarks of tower is one of the tallest building in Japan.

Yokohama chinatown is Japan's largest chinatown. Here, you will notice most of the visitors speak in same language like us... hehehe... Finally I found fried rice here!! but... I have taken my lunch at Ramen museum... I miss Penang food!!! T_T

The tallest lighthouse... in Japan? in Yokohama? in the world? Find out yourself... :P