Simple Life 简单的生活

Meditation by Geshela Tenzin Zopa

2011-11-28T22:09:00.013+08:00

Cherating Beach @ Kuantan

2011-08-18T10:46:00.003+08:00

We make a trip back to Kuantan during the Nuzul Quran holiday on August 17, 2011 and stayed at Holiday Villa, Cherating. It is also a Public Holiday in Pahang.

I woke up early to watch the sunrise and below are some pictures that I took. Since it is a weekday, there are not many people at the beach.

Sherbourne Motor Lodge @ Christchurch

2011-08-10T23:26:00.003+08:00

We stayed at Sherboune Motor Lodge on the day of arrival and the day before departure. This hotel very conveniently located around the city area and not to far away from the airport.

Below is a map showing the location of Sherboune Motor lodge marked "A".

Sherborne Motor Lodge is located at 94 Sherborne Street in the Christchurch suburb of St Albans. It is approximately 1.5km (15-20 minutes walk) from the City Centre.

We were give a two room unit with living hall & kitchen and breakfast too. WIFI is also avialble but it is not free.

Overall, we are happy with our 2 nights stay here.

South New Zealand Self Drive Tour 22 - 29 July 2011

2011-07-29T23:11:00.004+08:00

I booked this trip end of last year when Air Asia announced this new destination. After waited for such a long time, my trip finally materialised after much planning on a self drive tour.

Due to the recent earthquake, we almost wanted to cancel the trip but decided to go ahead after checking with our travel agent that it was safe for most part of NZ.

We drove 1600kms and visted many small towns along the way and below are few of the famous and bigger town where we put up 1 or 2 nights there.

Our flight D7 2754 arrived CHC at 10:55pm. Due to strict check on food items, we finally cleared all the formalities by midnight. We immedaitely went to Europcar counter to collect our rental. The car rental company gave us a Full Size 4WD Hyundai Santa Fe. We got lost the 1st time trying to locate our Motor Lodge. So we took out our Ipad with CHC Map pre-loaded to assist us and we manged to locate it the 2nd time.

On Day 2, we travelled from Christchurch to Dunedin. It was an exciting drive with few stops to take some photos. We woke up early and drive around the city followed by Otago Peninsula.

After one night at Dunedin, we drove to Te Anau. It started snowing when we leave Dunedin. The drive from Dunedin to Te Anau was quite dangerous as it snow very heavilly on certain stretches of the highway.

We arrived Te Anua around 7.00pm and the whole town is covered with thick snow. It was such a beautiful sight but really cold.

The next morning the snowing stop and we moved around the Lake Wakatipu to take more pictures.

Due to heavy snow, most road were closed and we had to stayed one more night at Te Anau and we missed our Milford Sound Tour due Te Anau - Milford Sound road was also closed.

The next morning, the weather were much better and we drove to Queenstown at around 10.30am after checking out the Distinction Hotel & Villas.

Upon arrival we checked in at Breakfree The Waterfront and were given a penthouse which had excellent view of the lakes and snow capped mountain.

The next day, we countinue our journey to Mount cook and Lake Takepo on the way back to Chrstchurch.

The drive from Twizel up to Mount Cook passing by Lake Pukaki is very scenic.The highest mountain in New Zealand is Mount Cook
which towers above the glacier fed Lake Pukaki in Canterbury, New Zealand.

After Mt Coook, we drove back to Christchurch and stayed another night at Sherbourne Motor lodge. The next morning, we drove around the city but the main city is still closed.

Rest. Da Feng Shou 大丰收鱼庄 @ Ara Damansara

2011-07-15T21:55:00.002+08:00

I passed the Ara Damansara Town Centre almost everyday and noticed a new restaurant recently opened at this area. So I decided to check it out today with my family.

This restaurant serves Szechuan Steam Boat and dishes. There are lots of dishes to choose from the menu and choose ala carte dishes.

The Mustard Rice serves in a pot is delicious and a recommended dish to try when you patronize this restuarant. All the other dishes are preety good too.

We got 20% discount due to the new opening and the total bill came up to RM54.00 for all the above foods + 1 pot of Chinese tea. We shall return again to try other dishes.

Steam Room @ Sunway Giza

2011-07-09T19:51:00.002+08:00

This week, I went to Sunway Giza actually to had dinner at My CookBook but ended at this new restaurant which open quite recently.

The ambiance& decor was nice and we choose to sit inside. As the name suggest, the foods here are mainly steam dishes and dim sum.

We actually visited the restaurant twice this week as the foods were delicious and price quite reasonable.

The pictures shown here are dishes that we ordered during our last two visits to this restaurant. The only dish not in is Bobo Cha Cha.

Rhine Port / Border triangle. Das Dreiländereck.

2011-07-09T08:46:00.003+08:00

During our recent trip, we also have the opportunity to visit the point Where Germany, France and Switzerland meet and the ships leave for the North Sea and pivotal point of Switzerland's raw material supply.

Some panaroma views of the Rhine Port.

Beautiful.

Calming.

Mangnificent.

Beautiful Flora of Germany

2011-06-30T23:47:00.003+08:00

During our trip to Germany, we came across so many types of flowers which are so beautiful and blooming during the times of our visit.

Below are some of the flora of Germany which are so beautiful.

MORE TO COME

Black Forest Germany

2011-06-23T14:32:00.004+08:00

Our friend took us to Black Forest on Sat, May 29, 2011. Black Forest (German: Schwarzwald) is a wooded mountain range in Baden-Württemberg, southwestern Germany.

The name Schwarzwald, i.e. Black Forest, goes back to the Romans who referred to the thickly forested mountains there as Silva Nigra , i.e. "Black Forest," because the dense growth of conifers in the forest blocked out most of the light inside the forest.

Wood-carving is a traditional cottage industry in the region and carved ornaments now are produced in substantial numbers as souvenirs for tourists. Cuckoo clocks are a popular example; they have been made in the region since the early eighteenth century and much of their development occurred there.

MORE TO COME

Strasbourg City Tour

2011-05-28T09:51:00.001+08:00

After our arrival at the Strasbourg, our friend from Germany came to pick us up and took us to a city tour of Strasbourg.

Below are some of the places and attractions that we visited.

1) Petite France

2) Catherdral Nortre Dame de Strasbourg

Streets around the cathedral.

3) Council of Europe & Europe Parliment.

4)) The Pedestrian Bridge that connect Starsbourg and Kehl, Germany.

Paris - Strasbourg by TGV Train 1st Class Cabin

2011-05-28T09:40:00.000+08:00

We checked out of the hotel around 10 am on May 28, 2011 to catch the TGV Train that departs @ 11.24am for Strasbourg.

When the coach is ready boarding, it will be shown on the information screen the lane number and the color.

Borading the 1st Class cabin.

The 1st class cabin is very spacious.

Comfortable chair.

We had the 4 seats arrangement which is good for family travel.

Food and drinks are available at one of the cabin.

The journey from Paris to Strasbourg took 2hrs 15mins.

It was a pleasant ride and it is so convenience.

Rest Le Cute D' Azur @ Paris

2011-05-27T23:41:00.000+08:00

After walking back from Montmatre, we were so tired and also lost our way back to our hotel. We decided to stop by at this restaurant for our dinner as they have promotion set dinner at Euro8.00 per set.

It was a nice little restaurant and the owner spoke English.

As the serving is quite large in Europe, we ordered two sets for three of us to share.

Fish & Chips.

Fish with Rice.

Gare de l'Est - Paris Est Train Station

2011-05-27T23:32:00.000+08:00

What we did during the walkabout while waiting for the check in time was to check out the Paris Est Train Station where we we will be boarding our TGV Train to Strasbourg.

he Paris Gare de l'Est station now provides transportation to major cities in Central Europe such as Zurich, Switzerland; Munich, Germany and Vienna.

You can purchase ticket on the spot but it is better if buy well advance to enjoy the best available prices

The station is very big and spacious unlike those in China where it is so crowded.

Many cafes, food & convenience store. There is also a shopping area.

This is the TGV train that is going to take us to Strasbourg.

Walking Tour of Montmatre, Paris

2011-05-27T22:38:00.001+08:00

Montmatre Hills is one of the recommended place to visit when in Paris. Topped by the Sacre-Coeur Basilica, Montmartre is the highest Paris hill at 130 meters.

Since we are staying quite close by, we decided to take a walking tour to Montmatre.
When I asked the hotel reception about the way and distance to Montmatre, he remarked that the best way to see Paris is by walking. We took his advice.

Beautiful panaroma view of the Paris City from top of the hill.

MORE TO COME.

Comfort Hotel Gare de L'est @ Paris

2011-05-27T21:32:00.002+08:00

I booked this hotel through the hotel website before my trip after searching for one that is close by the Gare de L'est Station as I will be taking the TGV Train from Paris to Strasbourg from this station. I paid Euro140 nett for 2 double rooms for 1 night on May 27, 2011.

Our taxi driver brought us straight here. As we arrived early and the check in time is only after 12noon, we left our luggage at assigned area and walked around the area to explore.

The normal room rate is Euro95. So its a savings when you book online well in advance for Best Rates Available.

The hotel is rated on 2 Star so we do not expect it to be big and luxurious. The reception area is small and there is a waiting area with drinks and ticketing machines.

The small waiting area.

The Breakfast Area.

We took a small lift and climb another stair inorder to reach our room.

Free Wifi is available here.

Europe Trip - Paris Day 1

2011-05-27T21:20:00.003+08:00

Air Asia flight arrived ahead of schedule into Orly International Airport, Paris. The weather was very good and slightly chilly during the mroning.

It was not very crowded probably not the peak flight arrivals time.

We got our luggages quite speedily and headed for the immigration and customs.

The sign around the airports are very informative and accurate.

There is a Tourist Information Counter if you need any help.

We took a taxi to our Hotel which costs us Euro36.00. There is a charge of Euro1.00 per luggage.

Trip to France/Germany/Switzerland

2011-05-24T20:06:00.002+08:00

I have booked Air Asia Promo ticket since last year for a family trip to Paris onwards to Strasbourg and possibly visit Germany & Switzerland depending on the schedule as I will be travel on a free & easy with planning of the trip all on own own. Our trip is scheduled from May 27, 2011 to June 04, 2011.

Below are the Paris Visite Pass and TGV Train ticket that I bought prior to departure.

I really look forward to the trip as I have travel to Europe for family holidays except for some past working cum leisure trip to Holland, Switzerland and Luxembourg.

After such a long wait and planning, we are excited about the trip and explore a new places that we have never been too.

Taj Mahal @ Agra, India

2011-05-23T16:24:00.001+08:00

One of the rerason that I choose to travel to North India is to see Taj Mahal. Taj Mahal is regarded as one of the eight wonders of the world, and some Western historians have noted that its architectural beauty has never been surpassed. The Taj is the most beautiful monument built by the Mughals, the Muslim rulers of India. Taj Mahal is built entirely of white marble. Its stunning architectural beauty is beyond adequate description, particularly at dawn and sunset. The Taj seems to glow in the light of the full moon.

Amber Fort @ Jaipur

2011-05-22T21:58:00.001+08:00

Upon reaching Agra Fort, we were taken by our tour guide to view some of the historical building around the massive fort.

Below are some of the beautiful and amazing views

Peacock The Restuarant @ Jaipur, India

2011-05-21T20:09:00.005+08:00

My friend insisted that we try the Nasi Beriyani as he heard that the some of the best Nasi Beriyani can be found in India. So we asked the tour guide to recommend us one. taht is located at Heritage Hotel.

Just like the name, the decoration are in the shape of peacock.

Even the table and chair has some design of peacock build into it.

Pictures of peacock.

We ordered one Nasi Beriyani Beef and the other chicken.

Well it is yummy. It is different from what wer had in Malaysia.

So good that we finished eveything.

Elephant Ride up to Agra Fort

2011-05-19T19:51:00.004+08:00

Below are more pictures of the taken during the elephant rides. You enjoyed the beautiful views and scenery during the slow elephant ride journey.

Ayurveda Therapy @ Jaipur

2011-05-18T21:08:00.004+08:00

We managed to try the Ayurveda Therapy at this Ayurveda centre which is recommended by our guide. The prices for treatments here are cheaper than the one at the hotel.

We took the 1 hour body and head treatments. The price was IRP1,100.

Ayurvedic products for szle.

The treatments room.

The pot that is been used to warm the ayurvedic oil. When it is apply on your body, it is quite warm as compared to other types of oil massage.

Amber Fort @ Jaipur, India

2011-05-16T22:43:00.008+08:00

On the 3rd day of our trip, we visited Amber Fort which is one of the major tourust attraction in Jaipur.

Amber Fort is located in Amber (Jaipur), which used to be the capital of the Kachhwaha clan, till Jaipur was made the official capital in 1727. The Amber Fort looks stunning, all-built in white marble and red sandstone. To add to its charm, Maotha Lake makes its foreground. The crystal mirror image of the Fort, on the still waters of the lake, seems to be a beautiful illusion. Amber Fort is usually pronounced as Amer Fort. In 1592, construction of the Fort was started by Raja Man Singh I. However, the Amber Fort took its present form during the reign of Raja Jai Singh I.

We took the elephant ride up to the fort.

Many tourist queuing up for the elephant ride. May - June is not the peak season. As it is hot, most tourist visit the fort during the morning.

This is the 1st time that I took an elephant ride. :)

View of thr fort from the ride up. Stunning.

KK Royal Hotel & Convention Centre @ Jaipur

2011-05-16T21:22:00.004+08:00

During our trio to India, we stayed one night at Jaipur's KK Royal Hotel & Convention Centre Jaipur which is a 4 star hotel in Jaipur.

Located amidst 7 acres of aesthetically landscaped grounds amidst Aaravali Hills, this Jaipur hotel is just steps away from the famous heritage of Jaipur ‘The Amber Fort’, world famous monuments, Wildlife Park, elephant village, mountain treks and shopping arcades are all just minutes away.

The reception area.

View from our room, the beautiful landscape garden and hill.

Our Deluxe Room.

Jala Mahal or Water palace @ Jaipur, Rajasthan, India

2011-05-09T20:48:00.004+08:00

The Jal Mahal is a palace in the middle of the Man Sagar Lake, just outside the Jaipur city center. The lake dries up in the dry season but in the monsoon season the only way to reach it is by boat.

Jal Mahal of Jaipur is a pleasure palace built in the 18th century. Situated amidst the picturesque Mansagar Lake, the palace has the Nahargarh hills forming its backdrop. Jaipur Jal Mahal Palace is an architectural beauty and was meant to be used for the royal duck shooting parties.

Hotel Clark Inn @ New Delhi

2011-04-29T21:25:00.007+08:00

Our Hotel in New Delhi for the night before we leave for Jaipur the next morning.

Tourist Class 3 Star hotel. Just for overnite stay is okay. Free WIFI here.

View from our hotel room.

Leaving for India

2011-04-29T16:58:00.000+08:00

We left for India on Air Asia X on April 29, 2011. Boarding for the flight.

Our flight D7 2506 leaving at 5.45pm.

The flight is full basing from the number of peaple at the boarding gate.

We make advance booking on the seat and got Seat 8A & 8B.

Beautiful view from the aircraft.

Sunset.

The New Delhi New Airport Arrival Hall. Very impressive and efficient custom/immigration clearance.

Delhi - Agra - Jaipur Trip

2011-04-27T19:50:00.002+08:00

I will be exploring India for the 1st time to the Golden Triangle of India from 29 April - May 04, 2011.
One of my main aim to to visit one of the 8 Wonder of the World, Taj Mahal.

Hin Ta & Hin Yai @ Koh Samui

2011-04-19T18:29:00.003+08:00

HIN TA - HIN YAI (Grandfather & Grandmother Rocks) is one of the most visited place of interest for tourists, rock formations which represent the male and female genital organs.

Their formation and their appearance were made famous by a local tale describing their origin and their existence on the island. The tale tells that the bodies of an old couple would have run aground in the bay after their boat sunk thus creating these weird rock shapes..

This rock represent the male genital.

It is quite hard to captured a picture of the rock that represent the female organ

Nice breezy views.

Hawker Stalls @ Koh Samui

2011-04-12T20:55:00.003+08:00

Below are pictures of some hawker stalls at one of the popular tourist attractions.

Dodol

Sausages, Coconut oil, cashew nuts etc

Fresh cocunut.

Kunaram Temple - Mummified Monk.@ Koh Samui

2011-04-06T22:18:00.003+08:00

Kanaram Temple where you can viewved the Mummified monk is an atttractions in Koh Samui that you must not missed.

Wat Khunaram is on the 4169 ring-road between the Na Muang waterfalls and Hua Thanon.

The body of Samui's most famous mummified monk, Loung Pordaeng, is on display here in a specially constructed building. When he died more than 20 years ago, he was sitting in a meditation position. He is still in that same position and his body shows few signs of any major decay.

He sits, 25 years after his death, wearing sun glasses and his orange robe in a specially built glass case and display room.

Na Muang 1 Waterfall @ Koh Samui

2011-04-05T23:12:00.004+08:00

Our tour guide took us to this waterfall which is our 1sr stop. There are few water falls around Koh Samui. This one is easily accessible.

Our group walking to the waterfall.

Souvenirs shops.

Great views.

Beautifulsights & sound.

Nice envirorment

Calming

Food stalls

Local products.

Sun Wong Kee Seafood Restuarant @ bandar Puteri, Puchong

2011-03-31T21:56:00.003+08:00

Today, my friend brought me and some old friends to this restuarant at Bandara Puteri Puchong Jaya which they said serves good seafoods.

Before I arrived, the host had ordered all the dishes and I just have to fill my stomach.

Fried Fu Chook.

Lala in Superior Soup. Delicious.

King Garoupa steamed with Superior Sauce.

Dried Noodles.

Clear Soup with Kway Teow .

I cant remember the name for this dish. If I am not wrong, it is fried salted egg.

The foods here are not too bad. My host told me that the foods at the old shop are much better.

Location:

49G, Jalan Puteri 2/1
Bandar Puteri
47100 Puchong
Selangor Malaysia
Contact: Sun Wong Kee Seafood Restaurant Sdn Bhd
H/P No: Nil
Tel No.: +603-80687189
Fax No: +603-80687289

Koh Samui Terminal & Local Tours

2011-03-30T20:31:00.005+08:00

Many local tour guide (both legitimate & freelancers) are there waiting for you to disembark to offer you their tour packages.

Most the cruise passengers disembark to tour Koh Samui.

The local tour guides will be aggressively promote their tour packages.

Check out the prices for tour by taxi.

We negotiated with this licensed tour guide using a van as we had 8 paxs. I forgotten how much we paid for the van for round island tour.

This is the van that took us the round island tour.

Arriving Koh Samui

2011-03-29T17:42:00.008+08:00

After Bangkok, our next stop is Koh Samui. Due to Koh Samui Port unable dock big cruise ship, the cruise ship parked at the sea and we were transferred by smaller boats to the Koh Samui Terminal.

it was hot and sunny day.

Nice view.

Me on board the small boat for transfer to the terminal.

My travel buddy.

You can see how far the cruise ship berth.

Passengers taking pics while on the small boat.

The pilot of the small boat.

The cruise will be postion here for one night.

Bandung Foods

2011-03-28T15:41:00.003+08:00

During my 1st trip to Bandung, we checked out a few eating places. Below is one of them which is located just beside one of the Factory Outlet, I have forgotten the name of the restaurant. decor is pretty cosy.

We had Batagor. BATAGOR stands for Bakso Tahu Goreng (fried meatballs and tofu). This is one of Bandung's original invention and also one of the most popular side dish. Quite similar to our rojak.

We also ordered the Indonesia style Fried Kway Teow.

Otak-Otak.

Pork Burgers & Chops @ Andes BYO, Aman Suria, PJ

2011-03-28T07:49:00.002+08:00

AFetr reading quite a number of good blog reviews about this place for its Pork Burgers, we decided to check this out. We went there on Sat pm but is was closed. There do not open for lunch on Sat & Sun. So we went back there yesterday night.

The place is pretty cosy for dining as it was well decorated. For three of us, we decided to order 2 main dishes and share.

For starter, we had garlic bread @ RM6.90

Porky Pork Grilled @ RM17.90

And the Star, their famous Pork Buger which is highly acclaimed by some food bloggers.

Closer shot of the juicy and tast Pork chop whic we do give the thumbs up and will be back agin and also try others dishes.

Jiang Duck (京之鸭) @ Sunway Mas Commercial Centre

2011-03-26T22:10:00.004+08:00

I live nearby to this area and pass this restoran many times but never step foot into it as most of the times I do not see lots of customer. Dont be fool by this. I tried it few weeks ago and also today. This restoran serves some nice dishes and we had a satisfying meal here on both occasions.

This is the shop front.

We ordered combo, Jiang Roasted Duck, Roasted Pork and Char Siew.

Delicious and we are suprised why no many patronise this restoran when the foods here are pretty good.

And green vegetables.

Location:

20-1, Jalan PJU 1/3A,
Sunway Mas Commercial Centre, Petaling Jaya
Wilayah Persekutuan, Malaysia 47301

Dance Contest & Fun Activities @ Costa Classica

2011-03-24T16:15:00.005+08:00

During the cruise, the entertainment team organized dance contest for the guests to participate and have fun.

The Entertainment Team.

Participants dancing.

The lounge where the contest was held.

Sabai Foot & Hand Massage

2011-03-22T22:32:00.004+08:00

After a quick Thai set lunch at one of the restaurant near to the hotel.

Took the sky train to Siam Paragon for shopping,

The biggest shopping center in Bangkok.

We head to the Sabai Foot & Hand Massage which is located at Ambassador Hotel for a 60mins foot massage to heal our tired foot.

The price here are quite reasonable.

Most important it is clean and the massage is good.

Foot massage just ok. Not the best.

Ambassador Hotel @ Bangkok

2011-03-21T21:51:00.003+08:00

After checking out of the cruise terminal, we boarded the chartered tour bus for Bangkok which is about 1 hour ride.

The interior of the chartered double decker bus.

Travel along the Expressway.

Finally we arrived Ambassador Hotel with complement from the host.

Ambassador Hotel have been in business for quite a long time. There have added a new wing.

We were assigned room at the Executive Floor. The room is huge.

Well decorated and spacious.

Arrival @ Laem Chabang Port, Bangkok

2011-03-18T13:08:00.005+08:00

After we left Kuantan, the next stop is Bangkok and we spent one night at sea before arrival into Thailand.

The weather was very good.

Laem Chabang has quite a big cruise terminal and you can see the number of excursion bus waiting for the tourists.

View if the port from the cruise ship.

The terminal is quite spacious and modern.

Shopping area.

Sunrise at Sea

2011-03-16T15:44:00.003+08:00

One of the day, I worked up early to watch sunrise at sea on board Costa Classica.

Below are some pictures that I took which is quite colorful. Not really sunrise as the sun is not visible.

Gym @ Costa Classica

2011-03-16T00:02:00.002+08:00

There is a well equipped gym on the cruise ship where we spend some time to burn some fats with the consumption of so much foods.

View from the lounge.

My friend having the workout.

Good view of the sea from the gym.

Me on one of the machine.

My friend running on the treadmill.

Brief stopover in Kuantan

2011-03-14T20:13:00.003+08:00

After cruise ship has docked at around 9am, I called my bro to pick me up. We had only afew hours as we have to be back to the ship at 3pm.

There is traditional dance to welcome the tourists.

Most of the paxs got down from the ship to take a break and explore Kuantan.

Checking for my bro to call back.

Cruise paxs haggling over the taxi fare for the Kuantan tour. Quite expensive, I overheard the taxi drivers quoting RM140-RM160 for 4 hours Kuantan tour.

On the way to Kuantan town in my bro car.

My bro took us to this restuarant to eat some hawker fares.

I had this simple noodles.

My bro.

The newest twin tower building in Kuantan which housed a new hotel and convention center just opposite East Coast Shopping Mall.

1st Port of Call: Kuantan Port

2011-03-09T20:40:00.005+08:00

Our cruise ship 1st port of call is Kuantan which is also my hometown. The cruise ship dock at the Kuantan Port @ Gebeng which is about half an hour drive from the town centre.

Passengers looking at the cruise ship docking after an ovenight stay on board.

The sky is quite gloomy during the monsoon raining season.

You can see the taxi queuing up to pick up potential customers.

Fire Drill @ Costa Classica

2011-03-09T20:28:00.004+08:00

It is mandatory for all passengers to participate in the fire drill. Each one of us is given a Fire Drill Card which we need to return during the fire drill.

When we heard the siren, we will have to put on the life vest gather at the assigned loaction for briefing on fire & evacuation procedures.

Me waiting for the briefing.

Still many not hear yet.

Alan.

Our group.

Collosseo Theater & Casino @ Costa Classica

2011-03-09T06:26:00.002+08:00

Everynight there will be a 2 shows at the Collosseo Theater. It will be same show but 2 different timing to cater for the two separate dinner sittings. No video or cameras allowed during the show rime. We watched every shows.

There is also a casino but not many people were gambling during the cruise.

And electronics games too.

Tivoli Restuarant @ Costa Classica

2011-03-07T22:05:00.003+08:00

During our 1st night, we had dinner at Tivoli Restaurant.

My travel partner.

Me.

The dinner menu.

Starter.

Soup.

Main Courses.

Salad.

Ice Cream.

We had a wonderful dinner on board the cruise ship.

Random Pics of Costa Classica

2011-03-07T21:41:00.007+08:00

Below are some pictures of the Costa Classica. According to the official website, Costa Classica is one of the best loved ships in the fleet, perhaps because of its welcoming and surprising personality or the recently refurbished beauty of its furnishings, or perhaps simply because it is a modern and comfortable ship on which to travel in total relaxation.

Some information about the cruise ship.
654 cabins in total, including: 10 suites with private balcony
2 restaurants
7 bars
4 Jacuzzis, 2 pools
Caracalla Spa: Wellness Centre with gym, treatment rooms, sauna, Turkish bath
Outdoor jogging track
Theatre on two levels
Casino and Disco
Squok Club with PlayStation Entertainment

The main lobby.

Upper deck with swimming pool.

Jogging Track.

Sunbathing area and relax zone.

La Trattoria Buffet Restuarant @ Costa Classsica

2011-03-07T21:26:00.003+08:00

Immediately after our check in, we dropped by at the La Trattoria Restaurant for some afternoon snacks. Mostly Italian cuisines and western foods.

This is what I had.

Costa Classica Cruise Jan 02 - 9, 2011 (Day 1)

2011-03-06T23:33:00.004+08:00

After arriving from KL, we immediately took a taxi from The Sands to the Singapore Cruise terminal for check in.

Unfortunately, the cruise terminal is full and our cruise ship was dock at the Jurong Port. So we have to take another bus to transfer is there.

Chartered truck loading our baggages for transfer to Jurong Port.

Upon arrival at Jurong Port, the check in process is pretty simple and fast.

Boarding thr cruise ship.

The Costa Classica is quite a big ship.

We immediately check into to our cabin.

Twin sharing cabin. Quite small but comfortable enough for 2 pax.

View from the cabin window.

Welcome note.

Daily Program will delivered to your cabin.

Bus Trip to SIngapore for Costa Classica Cruise

2011-03-06T19:18:00.006+08:00

On Jan 02, 2011, I went on a cruise trip to Kuantan, Bangkok & Koh Samui ex Singapore. So I have to take a Odyssey Executive Bus to Singapore frpm Berjaya Times Square.

While waiting for the bus to depart for Singapore, we had a cup of coffee and surfing at Starbucks Berjaya times Square.

This is the double decker Odyssey bus that we are waiting for.

Nowaday, the bus are well equipped just like taking a flight such as LCD TV etc

There even serves some light foods.

Movies, Games to keep you occupied.

We arrived at the terminal located at the Sand Casino.

i-City - City of Digital Lights

2011-03-06T17:36:00.008+08:00

Many months ago, I visited this place after seeing so many nice pictures of the Digital Lights by Bloggers.

During the night, the place will be like a wonderland with all the digital lights turn on.
I-City's vision i to create a city with a buzz that goes on 24 hours a day, seven days a week. For this to happen, the project will offer components comprising:

A cyberport, which will act as an IT backbone for I-City;
A one-million sq ft lifestyle commercial town centre;
A residential community;
A four-acre smart school;
A 300-room hotel;
An office park; and
A shop-office district.

Broga Hill

2011-03-05T21:18:00.002+08:00

More Pictures about the broga Hill. Using Picasa to upload pictures but maximum only 4 pics each time. Haveing some difficulty to upload more pictures. Better revert back to using Photobucket.

Broga Hill

2011-03-05T21:09:00.002+08:00

I have heard so much about Broga Hill and how beautiful the sunrise scene from top of the hill.
Last year, we organised a trip to Broga Hill to check it out.

Well, it is true, the views from Broga Hill is breathtaking and it worth the efforts to wake up early in the morning to climb the Hill.

Kartika Sari Bakery @ Bandung

2011-02-13T21:34:00.001+08:00

There is one Bakery which is very famous for its Pisang Molen (a kind of baked pastry filled with banana and cheese) and I went to check it out during my trip just to try their pastries.

You can only get Kartika Sari's Molen in Bandung city because they do not open any other branch outside Bandung city. Besides on Jalan Ir H. Juanda they has another outlet on Jalan Kebun Kawung, Jalan H. Akbar (both near train station), Jalan Jakarta, Jalan Kopo and Jalan Buah Batu

Kartika Sari has also a selection of delicious pastries and baked goods such as Cheese Rolls and Cheese Sticks.

LIFE

2011-02-13T21:07:00.003+08:00

Fengshui Queen Prediction for 2011

2011-01-28T23:13:00.003+08:00

If you believed in fengshui and wanted to know what is in store for us in 2011. I checked out Singapore's Fengshui Queen yearly prediction every year.

Below is her predictions for 2011.

Feng Shui for - Rabbit year 2011

Dago @ Bandung

2011-01-28T21:26:00.005+08:00

We were walking around Jalan Dago on Sunday during my 1st trip. There are no much traffic and many locals relaxing at the Dago Park.

One of the road is closed for people to ride bycles

This bicycle is vey unique.

Many food stalls around the area serving local delicacies.

Ayam Goreng Suharti @ Bandung

2011-01-28T20:59:00.004+08:00

I first had this Ayam Goremg Suharti when I was @ Jogja. Our tour guide brought us to one of their outlet there and I liked it. It is so tender it slips right off the bone. The fried crumbles, golden and glistening with chicken fat, are a guilty pleasure.

So when I visted Bandung twice, I will also not missed habving it when I found out that there is a new outlet in Bandung.

This is new only outlet at Bandung.

Big and spacious and can accomodate large number of customers.

Long list of dishes but I will go for the Original Ayam Goreng & rice.

My friend who also enjoyed and loved this ayam goreng.

This a set which containns other items.

This is the original Ayam Goreng only. The bits of deep-fried bumbu adorning the chicken is delicious.

Ayam Goreng Suharti , Restaurant
Jl. Lodaya No. 1
Karees, Bandung - 40116
West Java, Indonesia
phone: +62 22 4203127

Cafe at Heritage Factory Outlet

2011-01-27T22:28:00.005+08:00

Heritage factory outlet located in Jl. Riau and there have got a nice cafe at 2nd level for you to take a break when you are tired.

This poster really caught our attention. Customers are the most importatant.

You can try out some massage chairs.

Nice ambience to have nice lunch here.

Koi Fish Ponds.

We tried this Sundanes dish, Nasi Timbel.

Loh Mee @ Dengkil

2011-01-27T14:41:00.004+08:00

My friend heard about this restaurant in Dengkil serving nice Loh Mee. So one day on the way to airport, he insists that I stopped by to try it. It is not difficult to find as it is located along the main road of Dengkil town.

The restaurant is family owned.

The menus and prices are written on the white board.

We came here for their fame Loh Mee. Unfortunately, we found it quite normal and nothing to shout about as we have tasted better one before.

We saw the next table ordered this dish so we also order one to try.

Paris Van Java Shopping Mall in Bandung

2011-01-27T00:16:00.002+08:00

Paris Van Java Shopping Mall in Bandung is one of the popular shopping spots for the locals and also tourist. Located at Jalan Setiabudi, everyone and anyone in Bandung knows about PVJ as the locals call it. The name Paris Van Java came about because back in the day, Bandung was know as the Paris Of Java.

Dunkin Donut Breakfast @ Dago, Bandung

2011-01-27T00:04:00.004+08:00

Most of the foods courts or stalls in Bandung opened only from 9am or 10am onwards. I worked up early on the 2nd day and walk around the hotel and found only this fast food outlet opened from 6am till 11pm. Free Wifi too.

I ordered the breakfast set @ only Rp12,500 (RM4). Cheap breakfast and you can surf and read your emails if you bring your iPad or notebook.

Simple breakfast.

Pasar Baru Bandung

2011-01-26T23:49:00.005+08:00

One of the shopping location in Bandung is Pasar Baru but this place is more for the locals as the products here are lower quality and local products. The factory Outlets offer better quality and more choices.

Mee Baso Bandung

2011-01-26T23:40:00.003+08:00

While shopping at the many factory outlets, we do not have much time to look for nice place to eat and just walk into one that is most conveniece and clean for our meals.

Below are some of the Baso that we tried. Fried Meehoon

Batagor

Baso Meehoon

Fried rice

Mie tek Tek

Not too bad just to fill our stomach.

Bandung Trip 19-21 Jan 2011

2011-01-25T22:02:00.013+08:00

Make a second trip to Bandung again for shopping with friend and their relatives. Strictly shopping and no sighseeing as Bandung is famous for their Factory Outlets.

Aerial View of the city of bandung from the aircraft.

On the way to our Hotel, Holiday which is just Rp40,000(RM14.00) from Bandung Airport.

Local sellings all kind of stuffs along the way.

Our Hotel, Holiday Inn which has been recently renovated.

The hotel upgraded us to a Executive room.

Nice room and new decor.

Brand new lobby.

The upgraded Check in Reception

Nasi Padang @ Restoran Simpang Raya, Bandung

2010-10-17T14:09:00.004+08:00

During my 1st trip to Bandung, we were walking around Jalan Dago after checking out the Factory outlets and we decided to try this this Nasi Padang Restoran. The foods are not bad but I would not rate it as must try. Somthing diffreent which you can find in KL/PJ at Rasa Utara.

Bandung 200 Years Aniversery Parade

2010-10-16T11:04:00.007+08:00

I happened to be in Bandung from Oct 15-17, 2010 and coincidentally, it was Bandung 200th Years Celebration and Parade at Jalan Merdeka. So, I took the opportunity to join the locals to witness the parade.

Local police controlling the crowds.

Beautiful floats

Military Tanks

Comic Characters.....

Marching Bands

Stilt Walkers

Chidren promoting recyling program. Cute. :)

1st Trip to Bandung

2010-10-15T22:04:00.002+08:00

MAS had a sopecial offer when they launched Bandung as their new destination. It was very cheap 3days/2nites flight/hotel package at RM640.00 per pax. SInce I have not being to Bandung, i decided to visit Bandung from Oct 15-17, 2010.

MAS operates B737 for this route. The flight was full.

Bandung Airport: Bandung Husein Sastranegara Airport is a small airport with no aerobridge.

We puchase taxi coupon at the Taxi counter.

The fare from Airport to Holiday Inn is RP40,000.

Treasure HuntTrip To Frasers Hill

2010-08-01T16:41:00.002+08:00

Trip to Yangon, 06-09 August 2010

2010-08-01T16:20:00.004+08:00

Plan sometime ago when Air Asia announced that they will be flying to Yangon, Myanmar. Try booking online searching for the best deals and finally got it on 06-09 August, 2010 for 4days/3night. Accomodation at Park Royal.

Looking forward to visit the magnificent Shwedagon Pagoda.

Mama Kitchen Resturant @ TTDI

2009-08-29T09:58:00.004+08:00

Last Sunday, I went to this restaurant famous for its Loh Shee Fun for dinner. Its was full downstairs and we have to go upstairs.

Established since 1983. 26 years in existence, it must be damn good to last so long and so good business.
Menu with lots of dishes for your selection.
Well, it is easy. look for the Chef Recommendation. SInce it is just three of us we ordered the famous Loh She Fun, vegetable and Sweet and Sour Pok Rice. Will be back to try the others.
This is the famous Loh She Fun and definitely one of the Best in Malaysia. It is a branch out of Jalan Sultan’s Seng Kee Restaurant which is famous and pioneer for claypot Lou Shee Fun. The restaurant owns by the same family and the taste are similiar with the original recipe.

Ben Thanh Market, HCMC

2009-08-29T09:16:00.003+08:00

Ben Thanh market has long been one of Saigon's most famous landmark. The market has been in existence since the French occupation. The original market was located on the shores of Ben Nghe river by old fort Gia Dinh. Its proximity to the fort and the river where merchants and soldiers would land was reason for its name (Ben meaning pier or port and Thanh meaning fort). In 1859, when the French invaded Saigon and overtook fort Gia Dinh, Ben Thanh Market was destroyed. It was rebuilt shortly thereafter and remained standing until it was moved to its present location in 1899.

Built on a landfill of what was once a swamp named Bo Ret (Marais Boresse), the new Ben Thanh Market is located in the center of the city. Under the French government, the area around Ben Thanh Market was called Cu Nhac circle (Rond point Cuniac), named after Mr. Cuniac, the person who proposed filling the swamp to create this area. The area was later renamed Cong truong Dien Hong.

Everyone who has been to Saigon would recommend the Ben Tanh Market. All prices of goods are up for haggling. We found some nice lacquer pictures, hand-embroidered pictures and handbags, souvenir t-shirts, Vinamit dried fruits, blue mountain coffee and jasmine flower tea after 3 hours of shopping! The place is terribly humid and quite a maze. Shoppers must be prepared with lots of drinking water, patience and stamina!

Below are some random pictures that I took while I was there.

Air Asia New Destination Chengdu My Next Destination

2009-08-29T08:51:00.004+08:00

Air Asia will be flying direct to Chengdu from 20 October, 2009 and with ticket from RM129 on sale till 30 August, 2009. What a deal and a nice destinations with lots of nice attractions.Yesterday, while I am talking about it with my friends, we can resist the deal and make an impromtu decision to book the flights to Chengdu from Nov 5-10, 2009. Well, we will be looking forward to the trip and make arrangement for the hotel & ground arrangements. Hope to get some good deals during the up coming MATTA Fair.

Anyone have any good foods recommendation in and around Chengdu.?

2009-08-29T08:51:00.001+08:00

Restoran Gafan @ Paramount Garden, PJ

2009-07-28T22:20:00.005+08:00

I go to the Paramount Night Market almost every Sunday and will have my dinner around this area. I noticed this newly open Claypot Rice shop since it open for business sometime in March 2009 but did not try it until last Sunday.

Restoran Gafan is very famous in Cheras, KL and it is proclaimed on the banner as the MOST Famous Claypot Rice in Taman Connaught, Cheras, KL

Most Claypot Rice shop would only served one or two varities of Claypot rice but you will have 10 varieties to choose from when you dine at Rest. Gafan.

This place is normally not very crowded as I believe not many people aware that they have opened a branch here.

From the 10 varieties, we selected two types. The drunken Chicken Claypot Rice @ RM10.00. Freshly cooked with rice wine which give the rice a nice aroma. Their version a little different do not contain a lot of dark sauce. Delicious.

Fish Sauce Claypot Rice @ RM9.00. This taste a little different compared to the drunken chicken without the rice wine. For me, the drunken chicken taste more delicious.

Watercress Soup

House Special Tau Foo. Look nice but not really so yummy.

Green Spinnach.

Next visit, I will try the other varieties:

Salted Fish Chicken Rice
Sausage Chiken Rice
Mutton Rice
Black Pepper Chicken Rice
Bean Curd Sauce Chicken Rice
Thai's Chicken Rice
Prawn Rice

It is very easy to find, its just next to the famous Loong Foong Roast Duck shop.

Location:
Restoran Gafan
11, Jalan 20/13,
Paramount Garden, Petaling Jaya.
Tel:017-608-3228/019-435-8999.

Nasi Lemak AntaraBangsa @ Kota Damansara

2009-07-13T23:20:00.005+08:00

Two weeks ago, Nasi Lemak Antarabangsa open an outlet @ Kota Damansara. Their nasi lemak has been highly rated and recommended by many food reviews. So today for lunch, I drive all the way from Subang Jaya just to try the nasi lemak.

This is the brand new outlet @ Kota Damansara. Very easy to find.

Interior very nicely designed with green color fetaured very promimently.

The Most Popular Nasi Lemak since 1973!!!!

Set Nasi Lemak @ RM9.90. I ordered item No.9.

Lemon Tea

Nasi Lemak that we come here for. Very dissapointed. It does not live up to its name. The food is not freshly cooked as the chicken served was hard & cold.. The nasi lemak rice is also not well cooked and has no nasi lemak fragrance. My rating: 3/10.

It cannot be compared with Village Park @ Damansara Uptown which served the Best Nasi Lemak that I ever had. I will stick to Village Park for my regular dose of Nasi Lemak.

Najib 100th Day in Office

2009-07-11T21:55:00.004+08:00

Picture from Malaysia Insider.

Datuk Seri Mohd Najib Tun Abdul Razak, who marked his 100th day in office as the prime minister today, made 11 announcements pertaining to government efforts to provide for a better life for Malaysians.

These announcements were made at the "100 Days of Najib with the People" function at the Kuala Lumpur Convention Centre (KLCC) which was telecast live by Radio Television Malaysia (RTM).

The announcements were:

1. A 20 per cent discount for users of the pre-paid Smart Tag and Touch n Go cards who pay toll 80 times or more in a month.

2. The government offer for sale of 44,000 units of public housing to people renting these premises in the Federal Territory of Kuala Lumpur.

3. A 50 per cent discount on the licence renewal fee for hawkers and petty traders in the Federal Territory of Kuala Lumpur with immediate effect.

4. The government's raising by 3,000 the number of taxi permits, the applications for which will be approved over the next three months.

5. The introduction of drastic measures to reduce crime and fight corruption.

6. Facilitating applications for registration of births in Sabah and Sarawak.

7. Construction of additional roads in Sabah and Sarawak.

8. Upgrading of water and electricity supply in Sabah and Sarawak.

9. Reduction to RM211 the fee for learning to ride Class B2 motorcycles of 250cc and below, beginning Sept 1.

10. Increasing by RM150 million the allocation for Tekun Nasional, with RM15 million to be made available for young entrepreneurs from the Indian community.

11. Introduction of the new Amanah Saham 1Malaysia (1Malaysia Unit Trust) with a size of 10 billion units.

When he entered office in early April, he owned one of the lowest approval ratings of any incoming Malaysian Prime Minister.

One hundred days later and after a slew of measures to reform the economy, Malaysians appear to be warming up to Datuk Seri Najib Razak, a latest survey by an independent polling house shows.

The poll by the Merdeka Centre shows that his approval rating is 65 per cent, a spike from the tepid 46 per cent in mid-May and 42 per cent just before he became the country’s sixth leader.

Twenty-two per cent are dissatisfied with his performance while 13 per cent were undecided.

He made some bold changes like liberalising the financial services sector, allowing foreigners to own larger chunks of investments banks and insurance companies.

But the Government decision to revert the teaching of Mathematics and Science from English to BM is not well received. It is a step backward.

To Brighten Up Yr Day !!

2009-07-11T21:42:00.000+08:00

Ah Pek and Ah Ma in Their Golden Years

Ah Pek and Ah Ma were lying in bed one night.

The husband was falling asleep but the wife felt romantic and wanted to talk.

She said, "You used to hold my hand when we were courting."

Wearily, he reached across, held her hand for a second and tried to get back to sleep.

A few moments later she said, "Then, you used to kiss me."

Mildly irritated, he reached across, gave her a peck on the cheek and settled down to sleep.

Thirty seconds later she said, "Then, you used to bite my neck."

Angrily, he threw back the bed covers, got out of bed and walk away.

"Where are you going?" she asked.

"To get my teeth lah!"

PHO HOA Pasteur

2009-07-11T21:14:00.003+08:00

This is PHO shop that one of my reader strongly recommended that I must try while I am in HCMC. After trying the other recommended by our tour guide, we told the guide that we must try this PHO HOA for breakfast before we leave for airport on the last day of our trip.

And here it is, the famous PHO HOA. Since it was Sunday, the shop is full and we have to wait for awhile before we secure a table. The upper floor of the shop is also been converetd as additional dining area by the owner due to the very good business.

Again, we ordered the PHO GA (Chicken Noodles). Delicious but I personally would prefer PHO HONG VAN.

Fresh Taugeh.

Yau Char Kwai, Bananas and some local desserts.

Vietnamese coffee. Freshly brew and great for breakfast to go together with the PHO.

A super satisfying breakfast to end our trip to HCMC.

Vietnamese Delicious Noodles: PHO HONG VAN

2009-07-07T22:09:00.007+08:00

I have visited HCMC and back for more than a week. Too lazy too update and finally found the time to share some info about Vietnamese foods. While in Vietnam, this is a must try noodles called PHO. The other is the famous Vietnamese coffee.

I did some research on what the I must try when I am in HCMC. Someone recommended me PHO and not to miss this PHO shop called PHO HOA. I told my tourguide that I must try this noodles and would like to skip my morning breakfast at the hotel, he said that one is famous with the tourists as well as local which is PHO HOA but the other one is the most popular among the local called PHO HONG VAN. He brought us to PHO HONG VAN on the 3rd day and PHO HOA on the last day.

Well before you wonder what the hell pho is(say "fur") , it is a thin and white long thing, the most delicious noodle in the whole of Vietnam.

This is the shop where the local patronise so it must be good. We went there at around 8am and the shop is packed with mainly local.

This shop is clean and tidy.

Pho Bo(Beef noodles Soup) & Pho Ga (Chicken Noodles Soup).

Some local vegetables which you can add to the bnoodles soup or eat it raw. One of them is mint plant and the other I am not sure.

And Vietnamese taugeh.

Chilly and lime.

Sinec I do not take beef, I ordered PHO GA (Chicken Noodles). Wow, it is really delicious and the best noodles that I had while in HCMC. I will definitely be back if I ever return there.

And Vietnamese Coffee ( CA PHE) too. It’s a drip filter. A metal coffee filter uses a screw-down mechanism to compresses the coffee grounds into a super-dense layer through which hot water is filtered. Because it takes at least five minutes (often longer) to drip through, the coffee is rich in flavor and essential oils. It’s also rich in caffeine!

How to order

•Hot Vietnamese coffee, straight up
Cà phê nóng = "coffee hot"
Pronounced like: cah-FAY nowng (high tone)

•Hot Vietnamese coffee with condensed milk
Cà phê sữa nóng = "coffee milk hot")
Pronounced like: cah-FAY soo-ah (rising tone) nowng (high tone)

•Iced Vietnamese coffee with condensed milk
Cà phê sữa đá = "coffee milk ice")
Pronounced like: cah-FAY soo-ah (rising tone) dah (high tone)

Digital Piano Vs Upright Acoustic Piano

2009-06-17T23:50:00.006+08:00

My son started taking Piano lessons recently and he is currently practicing at home using a borrowed Casio Keyboard. Keyboard do not have the hammer effect and the keyboard is very light so it is mot suitable for practicing.

I am contemplating to buy a Piano for him and his Piano teacher recommended the Acoustic Piano over the Digital Piano. A reasonably good used upright acoustic piano will costs from RM6k and above. And it will also required tuning twice a year at RM80 each time. It will also required a heater.

And this Casio Celvanio AP-500 Brand New will costs around RM4.5k and no regular tuning required. It has scaled hammer effect for the traditional piano effect feel.

Since I have no music background, it is a dilemma to choose between the two. Any good music experts who can share and advice me which should be a better choice for a beginner.

Choong Kee Kampar Claypot Rice @ Damansara Jaya

2009-06-17T22:41:00.004+08:00

It has been quite awhile that I have not eaten claypot chicken rice. So last week I decided to visit Choong Kee Kampar Claypot Rice at their new shop. This is the 1st time I ate here since they move from the corner shop to their own shop.

Now there have a nice menu for you.

The place is much more cleaner and with nice marble dining table.

Their famous charcoal burn Kampar Claypot Rice. Big RM13.00/pot.

Green Vege. RM6.

Many choices of steam soup. We order the lotus with pork rib. RM5/bowl.

If you are lookiing for a good claypot rice. Choong Kee will be a good choice.

Annie 1 Kopitiam @ Damansara Uptown

2009-06-17T22:16:00.003+08:00

My old friend has ventured into food business and he started this restaurant few months ago. Two Sundays ago, I brought my family to patronize his restaurant. Their special dish is Famous Menglembu Wan Tan Mee.

Just like most kopitiam this days, you have to write down your own orders. The menu for foods and drinks give you are wide varieties of choices.

The decor & environment is simple and cosy.

This is their Famous Soup Menglembu Wan tan Mee. The wan tan noodles is delicious but I would prefer the quality of Char Siew to be better. After eating those famous Char Siew, I find their Char Siew quite ordinary.

And this is the Dry Version.

Vege Chai & fried Egg Set.

Fu Chook Barley & Pu Er Char.

It is very easy to find as it is located just opposite UOB Bank. So if you are around this area, you may want to give it a try.

Mercedes Trophy 2009

2009-06-06T15:03:00.004+08:00

Try my luck again in this year Mercedes Trophy for the Hole-in-One Prize of a Mercedes E200k which was held at the Saujana GCC over 3 days from June2-4, 2009. Played on the June03, 2009 and did not play well enough to win any prices nor the Hole-in-One or Lucky Draw.

However, make some new friends who are my flight mates on that day. It was an enjoyable day. Will try again next year. :)

Medan Selera SS2, PJ

2009-05-06T14:02:00.006+08:00

If you are looking for foods, one of the place you can go to is Medan Selera(Food Court) SS2. I hardly go there until recently when I go there quite often. You can find all kind of foods there after 6pm. Most of stalls there open only during dinner time.

One day I dropped by there and noticed this stall having a long queue. So I went and checked it out what is so attractive that people queuing up for it. It must be something very delicious. To my surprise, the stall sell mixed rice. It occupy two stalls with the sign BreadGirl and Baba Nasi lemak. So I queue up to try it. The foods a freshly cook and have the most varieties among the mixed rice shop there. I do not have pictures of the foods. If you happen to be there, you may want to try it. But it can be on the expensive side depending on what you order as it costs me RM18.00 for two persons when I had my dinner there.

Woo Pin Fish Head Noodles (湖滨鱼头米粉)@ Taman Danau Desa, KL

2009-05-05T14:48:00.006+08:00

Many have claimed that this Fish Head Noodles is one of the best on KL/PJ. I have wanted to try it but never make it there. So today, I finally make it since I have got an appointment in KL. I went there around 12noon to avoid the lunch time crowd.

It is not too difficult to find but you must be careful of the signboard. Look for Ho-A-One Seafood Steamboat.

Even though, we were there early. Many others are there earlier but many tables are still available.

We took Table 12. Service was fast and a lady came to take our order. We order 2 bowls of Fish Head Noodles and a side order a bowl of Fish Paste.

Fish Head Noodles priced at RM6,50(S) RM8.00 (L). This Fish Head Noodles is definitely one of the best that I have eaten. The soup is flavorful and aromatic with generous amounts of tomato cubes, preserved vegetables, celery and ginger. Apparently they also use white Chinese cooking wine and of course carnation milk (you can have an option to choose no, less or more carnation milk.)

This bowl of Fish Paste @ RM6.50. The fish paste are just normal. I personally would prefer the Fried Fish Head Noodles. Will be back when i am around the area.

Woo Pin Fish Head Noodles
(Ho-A-One Seafood Steamboat)
A37, Plaza Danau 2
Jalan 109F
Taman Danau Desa
KL
Tel: 012-2013148
Closed on Monday
Open: 7.20am - 2.30pm

Travel to HCMC, Vietnam

2009-05-04T23:35:00.008+08:00

With the special offer by Air Asia, I managed to book tickets to HCMC @ RM217.00/pax return inclusive of seat selection and advance foods orders. I will be in HCMC from June 25-28, 2009.

This will be my 1st trip to Vietnam. I would prefer Hanoi than HCMC as Hanoi offer more scenic places and the Unesco site, Halong Bay. But since the ticket price is really special, I am going to explore the historical HCMC and check out the Cuci tunnels.

Looking forward to the trip. Anyone has got good recomendation on nice foods and restaurants. ?:)

Anonymous has commented that I should try Pho Hoa and Vietnamese coffee. I have managed to get some information about Pho Hoa from a Mingling of Taste's Blog.

1) Pho- It really is better here. Quite a while back, I blogged about my (failed) attempts to make good pho at home. Since then, I’ve eagerly anticipated finding an authentic version of this comforting noodle soup made with long-simmered beef or chicken and served with a gorgeous pile of herbs. On our first day in HCMC, we decided to try Pho Hoa, the shop mentioned in Patricia Shultz’s recent book, 1000 Places to See Before You Die. I’m sure Pho Hoa does not have a monopoly on great pho in HCMC, but we could not resist checking it out. We unwittingly ended up walking at least 2 or 3 miles in the midday heat to get there. You see, addresses on a lot of streets in HCMC don’t just proceed with sequential numbers. Instead of 1, 2, 3, 4, you’ve got, 1a, 1b, 1c, 1d,1e; 2a, 2b, 2c… and on and on for about 2 more miles than you thought it would be.

We didn’t think it could possibly be worth it, but it was. There’s no discernible secret to this pho. It’s simply imbued with the flavor that must come from patience and years of practice. Eat it for lunch, eat it for breakfast, eat it in the middle of the night—good pho is one of the ultimate meals in any cuisine.

Pho Hoa
260 Pasteur Street (Duong Pasteur)
Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon)
Vietnam
Tel: +84-8-829-7943

Krispy Kreme Doughnut is finally here in KL.

2009-05-04T22:35:00.004+08:00

The famous US Krispy Kreme Doughnut and Coffee opened its 1st franchised flagship store @ Berjaya Times Square. The Berjaya Group has successfully secured the franchise and the next store will be at Mid-Valley MegaMall. Before their arrival into KL. I have heard people bringing them back from Indonesia and claiming that it is the best doughnuts.

Krispy Kreme is a leading branded specialty retailer of premium quality treats; including its signature hot Original Glazed® Doughnuts. Headquartered in Winston-Salem, North Carolina, USA, the company has offered the highest quality doughnuts and great tasting coffee since it was founded in 1937. Today, Krispy Kreme and its one-of-a-kind Hot Light can be found in approximately 525 locations around the world.

Since I am in KL for the HomeDec Fair 2009. I head to Berjaya Times Square to try this famous doghnuts. The store is located at the main entrance.

Just like the other Doughnuts Store, we can view the kitchen while queing up to the order section.

We queue for about 15mins. Not as long compared to when I queue up for JCo when it opened its frist store at the Pavillion.

We ordered 1 dozen @ RM23.90 and a Cuppacino + Apple Juice. The Doughnuts are really too sweet for me. Personally I would prefer Big Apple or Jco.

The eat in section is located on the 1st floor.

While we are leaving, the queue is still very long.

Taste Vegetarian 品味素食小馆 @ Dataran Sunway, Kota Damansara

2009-05-04T14:35:00.003+08:00

Dataran Sunway, Kota Damansara has got many food outlets and restaurants. I am always on the lookout for new place to try out some new foods and taste. Few weeks ago. I was looking a place for dinner around this area and decided to have vegetarian foods at this restaurant. The interior decor is very well decorated and modern.

Set Lunch & Dinner @ RM12.90 nett person available.

Many different dishes/drinks and reasonably price.

Aloe vera Drink.

Iced Herbal Tea.

Our order, sweet and sour fish.

Green Vegetable.

Taufu with preserved olive.

All this food are home made and contain no MSG. If you are after healthy vegetarian food and good environment, this will be a good choice.

Fatty Mee Hoon Kuih @ Berkeley, Klang

2009-04-30T05:31:00.004+08:00

I have heard about this famous Mee Hoon Kuih shop and read many good reviews about their version of Mee Hoon Kuih. Had wanted to check it out but have not been to Klang town for quite awhile.

Today, my son had an appointment with Dr Yap Skin Specialist @ Klang so I decided not to miss this Mee Hoon Kuih and head to this restuarant at 10am when the shop open for business. I had a little bit of problem locating it as i make the wrong turn to Taman Eng Ann initially but found it later. It is quite easy to locate. The main signboard used to show Restoran Son Hooi Hua but it has got a new signboard which showed Fatty Mee Hoon Kuih.

Since the shop just open, it was not crowded but notice many people order Take-away. The price is also reasonable RM3.00(S), RM3.20(M) and RM3.50(L). Only the Soup version available here.

Media reviews pasted across the wall and appeared on the HOCHIAK TV program too, So it must be delicous.

Drinks you have to order separately. Their special Bali Cincau.

The Mee Hoon Kuih are prepared fresh upon order as you can see the Indonesian helpers use hand to pinch the dough and place them in the soup pot. The Aunty will be doing the cooking.
This Mee hoon kuih are served with pork slices, liver, choy sum, ikan bilis as compared to Pan Mee which normally served with minced pork.

This is small bowl which is just nice for small eater.

And this the Large Order for me with additional egg (hidden inside). This Pan Mee is definitely one of the best that we have eaten. It is a little different from the Taman Sri Sentosa/SS 19 Pan mee that I normally patronise. Whenever I am in Klang, I shall pop by to this shop.

We ordered extra ikan bilies.

Address:
19, Lebuh Banggau, Taman Berkeley
41150 Klang Selangor
Contact: 012-3366183
Opening Hours: 10am-11pm.

Restoran Ayam Penyet-AP @ Dataran Mentari, PJ

2009-03-31T15:27:00.009+08:00

It has been awhile that I have not been blogging for no specific reason, just wanna take a break. From now onwards, I hope to be back and start posting with 1-2 posts a week.

Been a food lovers, my first post after so long break is about food, Indonesia foods but available locally. It is called AYAM PENYET - this Blazing Hot, Smashed, Crispy Fried Chicken. This restuarant started with its 1st outlet at SS15 Subang Jaya in November 2008 and has now another two outlets at Dataran Mentari and Bangi.

I read some good reviews about them and decided today to dropped by at their new Sunway Mentari outlet to try their signature Ayam Penyet. Ayam Penyet is a tradfitional cuisine originated from Surabaya.

My friend who joined me for lunch today.

Simple and cosy decor with air-condition dining area and non-air cond smoking area.

Prawn Keropok for sale @ RM3.00/plastic bag.

We were wrongly served (which is ordered by another table) with plain ice water which is priced at RM0.30/cup. We thought it was complimentary when served.

This is their famous Ayam Penyet @ RM7.00 per set. Rice is charged seperately @ RM1.20/plate.

Ayam Penyet is a popular Indonesia chicken dish where the chicken is specially marinated various spice and herbs. The meat is then smashed with a wooden hammer and deep fried until golden light brown. One of unique feature in preparing this funny name dish is the art of frying whereby it is crspy from the outside and juicy inside. There are many other different version of like Empal Penyet (Smashed Beef), Lele Penyet (Ikan Keli and fried Cat Fish) and many others selection as shown on their menu.

The chiili really blazing hot for me. For those who love it HOT, you will love it.

We ordered Chendol for our drink. It is served a little diffrently as the chendol is mixed with some cut Chempedak and cude ice instead of the shave ice. It is better with shave ice.

Banyak Sedap ; Very delicious in Bahasa Malaysia as we clean up the dish except for the chilly which is too spicy for both of us.

If you want find out more about Restoran Ayam Penyet and the locations, you can check out at their website: http://www.ayampenyet-ap/com

Dataran Mentari Outlet
No 17, Jalan PJS 9/17,
Petaling Jaya Selnagor.

What is recession?

2009-03-05T12:08:00.002+08:00

With the present worsening world economic situation, the world "recession" is been mentioned very often this days. My friend send me this story about recession. Something to ponder!

This Story is about a man who once upon a time was selling Hotdogs by the roadside.
He was illiterate, so he never read newspapers. He was hard of hearing, so he never listened to the radio. His eyes were weak, so he never watched television. But enthusiastically, he sold lots of hotdogs. He was smart enough to offer some attractive schemes to increase his sales.

His sales and profit went up. He ordered more a more raw material and buns and use to sale more. He recruited few more supporting staff to serve more customers. He started offering home deliveries. Eventually he got himself a bigger and better stove. As his business was growing, the son, who had recently graduated from College, joined his father.

Then something strange happened. The son asked, "Dad, aren't you aware of the great recession that is coming our way?" The father replied, "No, but tell me about it." The son said, "The international situation is terrible. The domestic situation is even worse. We should be prepared for the coming bad times." The man thought that since his son had been to college, read the papers, listened to the radio and watched TV. He ought to know and his advice should not be taken lightly.
So the next day onwards, the father cut down his raw material order and buns, took down the colorful signboard, removed all the special schemes he was offering to the customers and was no longer as enthusiastic. He reduced his staff strength by giving layoffs. Very soon, fewer and fewer people bothered to stop at his hotdog stand. And his sales started coming down rapidly, same is the profit. The father said to his son, "Son, you were right". "We are in the middle of a recession and crisis. I am glad you warned me ahead of time."

Moral of The Story:
It's all in your MIND! And we actually FUEL this recession much more than we think we do!!!!!!!!!! !!

What can we take away from this story??
1. How many times we confuse intelligence with good judgment?
2. Choose your advisers carefully but use your own judgment
3. A person or an organization will survive forever, if they have the 5 Cs
* Character
*Commitment
* Conviction
* Courtesy
* Courage

The tragedy today is that there are many walking encyclopedias that are living failures.
The More practical and appropriate views on this economic recession is:
"This is the time to reunite together for any small or a big organization, this is the time to motivate and retain people which are the biggest asset, this is the time to show more commitments to the customers, this is the time to show values of our company to the world ".

The Highest Position of the World

2009-02-16T11:09:00.000+08:00

Do you know who is sitting inThe Highest Position of the World ?!

U.S President , George Bush ?

Osama Bin Laden ?

UN General Secretary ?

Pope Benedict ?

I Will Tell You

But Please

Don't Wonder

Valentine;s Love Meme

2009-02-14T22:58:00.005+08:00

Thanks to Jean & Janice for tagging me this very meaningful meme where we express our love to our love ones and to all our special friends on Valentine Day.

I would like to share this Valentine's love with all my special friends;

Jean, Janice, Marzie, Bokjae and all those listed on LinkLove.

***start copy***
Rules:
1) Once you're tagged, install the corner banner at your blog as a third party html code. (The corner banner need to stay at your blog for at least 2 weeks).
2) Post about this meme, Valentine's Love.
3) Add your blog/s with link/s to the Valentine's Lovers list and leave a comment at this post HERE.
3) Tag all your special friends.
4) Please remember to update your list regularly so that you would not miss out anyone in your Valentine's Lovers list.

Corner Banner

p/s: The wordings on this banner with automatically changed to 'Tagged with Love! xoxo' on Feb 15.

Instruction to install corner banner (For blogger):
1. Go to 'Layout', Click on 'Add a Gadget'.
2. Select 'HTML/ Javascript', insert the html code above in the provided box.
3. Click 'Save'.

Valentine's Lovers:

1.A Great Pleasure 2.Time Goes By 3.Listen With Your Heart 4.Glossalicious 5. Wishing on a Falling Star 6. Mariuca's Perfume Gallery 7. Simply Shinade 8. A Simple Life 9. Mommy's Little Corner 10. Ramblings of the Phat 11. 0007 Undercover TAGMEMAWARD CAT 12. Notes by Marvic 13. Maiylah's Snippets 14. Picture Clusters 15. This is a Miracle 16. purplefrogcat 17. Also Mommy 18. Both Sides Now 19. illusionaire 20. Candles, Crafts and Whatnot 21. The Brainy Bimbo 22. Sweet Nothings 23. Turn-u-Off 24. Chopsticks 25. My Views On My So Called Life 26. Gagay 27. Empty Streets 1027 28. Life According To Me 29. Yummy-as-can-be 30. Mom...Check Nyo 31. Everything Under the Sun 32. My Sweet Escape 33. Never Enough Stuff 34. Windmill on the Hill 35. Snapshot 36. Twinkletoe Writing Space 37. A Piece of M.I.N.D 38. Life is too short to be ordinary... 39. Our Journey to Forever 40. What a colourful life!! 41. Oh Fer Cryin' Out Loud 42. My Online Paradise 43. My Life Story 44. Moments of Colours 45. Lynn's Chic Spot 46. Simply The Best 47. The Spirit of Blogging 48. Tales of A Pinay Single Mom 49. Simple Life 50. Hit-or-Miss 51. Show Me Your Interest 52. Soy Wax Candles Blog 53. Night Clicks 54. Housewife @ Work 55. Pretty Firefly 56. Straight From The Heart 57. In The Eyes Of The Beholder 58. Mary Anne's Musing 59. Emila's Illustrated Blog 60. Pinay Mommy Online 61. Amazingly Me 62. Dancing IN Midlife Tune 63. my so called life 64. Michelle's Life here and there 65. Chuchie's Hideaway 66. Life's All About 67. Proud Mommy 68. Caffeine Fix

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Try this EYE TEST!!

2009-02-14T22:31:00.001+08:00

Chinese eye test

THIS IS BRILLIANT!!!

If you cannot decipher anything, then try pulling the corner of your eyes as if you were Chinese. (Sepetkan mata anda)

It works :-)
Those precious chinese eyes... hehehe...

CNY 2009 Lion & Dragon Dance @ TGCC, PJ

2009-02-09T23:19:00.005+08:00

CNY is over. Almost every year, we will get to watch a lion dance performance but this year is a little special, not only Lion Dance, we watched Lion & Dragon Dance which is quite rare @ TGCC.

Prior to the Lion & Dragon Dance, some small fire works.

Tropicana Club House well lighted and decorated for the CNY.

The venue for the Lion & Dragon Dance @ Golf Wing.

Some demonstration prior to the live performance.

This is the special stand for the live performance. This lion troupe was very skillful and performed some thrilling movements and stunts.

The God of Fortune was also around to give Ang Paus.

The Dragon Dance was performed prior to the Lion Dance. Again, the troupe was very well trained and coordinated. Great Performance.

Below is a video of the Dragon Dance using my Nokia phone.

Homemade Wantan Mee /Curry Mee @ Kopitiam 747, Sunwaymas, PJ

2009-02-09T12:07:00.009+08:00

If you are around Aman Suria/Sunwaymas area, you should try this Wanan Mee stall which serves very good Homemade Wantan Tee and Vietnamese Style Curry Noodles. I have been to this area for the past 2 years and didn't know about it until I read about the good review at A Whiff of Lemon Grass food blogsite.

So last month, I went and check it out and indeed the homemade wantan mee and vietnamese curry mee are yummylicious. During lunchtime, you will notice long queue at this stall and it is better to be there early to avoid the lunchtime crowd. I have brought some friends to try it and they are give the thumb ups for the recommendation.

The stall is located at this corner coffershop.

The review by Sin Chew Jit Poh is proudly display.

Look for this stall and the boss is very friendly.

Dry wan tan mee with Charsiew. The difference you will notice is the wantan mee which is in dehrdrated form compared to the others which are normally in soften form. For the charsiew, you will need to ask for 100% lean or 50%lean/50%fat when you placing your order.

Wan tan is very fresh and nice.

Vietnamese Style Cuury Noodles which is served with the nice charsiew. The taste is good aand again something different compared to the normal style curry noodles.

This is a great place to try a different style want tan mee and curry noodles which are very delicious.

Address:
747 Kopitiam (SFS Kopitiam)
Jalan PJU 1/3C,
Sunway Mas Commercial Centre.