The original plan was to go back to Taiwan in June this year. Decided to go to Hokkaido since we have been talking about it for quite awhile even though the Taiwan's trip programme almost completed.
The sudden earthquake and massive nuke leak changed the whole planning. Was quite disappointed but definitely not safe to go ahead. Where's next? Beijin. Dropped the plan again due to the hot weather and not many interesting spots for girl girl.
Finally settled to visit Melbourne for the cooling weather since it is winter in June and a good mix of activity for the family. Pretty busy and tiring to research 4 places over a few months. But the effort was not totally wasted as we can use it whenever we decided to visit the places again.
I enjoy planning unique and enriching holiday program, ie trying different activities so as to have different experiences from the moment we fly off until we touch down home. For the recent Melbourne trip, we tried traveling on SQ A380, staying in a service apartment with a kitchen and day trip to a few nearby places.
Half way into the trip, I also started to source for more information that I may need it as I will be visiting Melbourne again :-)
Showing posts with label Travel. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Travel. Show all posts
Friday, July 15, 2011
Monday, October 4, 2010
Boutique Hotel
I like the idea of staying in a boutique hotel whenever I travel for leisure. Though it has existed for years, I am more for it recently as I feel that the offering is generally much better.
Boutique hotel tends to be smaller in size and hence fewer guests in total. Check-in, check-out and breakfast sessions are more enjoyable. At the same time, staff is able to provide more personalized services for the guests whenever there are requests. The reception counter is well organized, designed and staffed.
The room is usually modernly designed with good colour combination + creative lightnings, cosy & clean environment, stuff with more current and useful gadgets such as LCD tv, a good range of international & local tv programmes, DVD player, free wi-fi internet connection, jacuzzi in bathroom, coffee/tea set and comfortable bedding. My recent stay in Taipei also find well packaged condom as part of the room amenities list.
Some added services include free usage of laundry equipment (eg. washing machine, dryer etc) for guests, kitchenette to do some simple cooking (or warming) etc. Of course, it can be quite expensive to stay in a boutique hotel and comparable to a 5-star hotel. My recent research suggested that Taiwan offers more competitive boutique hotel rates - pretty affordable in good location (ie walking distance to train station and surrounded by places to dine and shop). Hong Kong is quite expensive.
Consider staying in a boutique hotel especially if you are visiting Taiwan. :-)
Boutique hotel tends to be smaller in size and hence fewer guests in total. Check-in, check-out and breakfast sessions are more enjoyable. At the same time, staff is able to provide more personalized services for the guests whenever there are requests. The reception counter is well organized, designed and staffed.
The room is usually modernly designed with good colour combination + creative lightnings, cosy & clean environment, stuff with more current and useful gadgets such as LCD tv, a good range of international & local tv programmes, DVD player, free wi-fi internet connection, jacuzzi in bathroom, coffee/tea set and comfortable bedding. My recent stay in Taipei also find well packaged condom as part of the room amenities list.
Some added services include free usage of laundry equipment (eg. washing machine, dryer etc) for guests, kitchenette to do some simple cooking (or warming) etc. Of course, it can be quite expensive to stay in a boutique hotel and comparable to a 5-star hotel. My recent research suggested that Taiwan offers more competitive boutique hotel rates - pretty affordable in good location (ie walking distance to train station and surrounded by places to dine and shop). Hong Kong is quite expensive.
Consider staying in a boutique hotel especially if you are visiting Taiwan. :-)
Tuesday, August 3, 2010
Amazing and refreshing read on being a tour guide
I come across a Chinese book accidentally titled as "教我如何不宰你", I translated it as "How not to slaughter you alive".
The book was published in 2006 on traveling but focused on tour guide. Not how to be one but the dark and ugly side of being a tour guide as a profession. The author is from China and he has been a tour guide for more than 10 years.
The author shared much detailed happenings from his vast experience on the dilemma, challenges, unfairness, and difficulties in managing travelers in a tour group, bus driver, services providers and travel agency. Pretty amazing and refreshing read. Based on his sharing, it is definitely very pressuring and unpleasant to be a tour guide, in particularly, in China and leading a China tour group.
The main source of all these rooted to the fact of charging too low or no fees at all of joining a tour group. At the macro level, the governance system is not good enough to facilitate a healthy development of the industry. The result of it is that the tour guide has to coax or "force" travelers to buy more and to visit more factory outlets to meet the expected "quota" to cover the cost of the trip and even to make money for the agency. At the same time, the tour arrangement may have to reduce or cut cost on food, accommodation, itinerary etc. The whole travel experience is affected with complains, unhappiness and at times, violence. Tour guide does not has a basic salary and for those few that have it, they are expected to help out in the agency when there is no assignment. If anything happens, tour guide has to bear the consequences fully.
It's sad to read about it. Traveling is suppose to be fun, enjoyable, safe and happy. But it may not be case if joining a tour group. Though I would prefer planning my own trip and I do most of my overseas holiday, I have also joined tour group on a few occasions.
The best was the one that I went to Tokyo. The tour guide was a lady and she was experienced enough to conduct a meaningful and pleasant trip throughout the journey. At least I din feel that I was "forced" to accept or visiting nonsense places or the need to buy stuff. :-) The other few, something did happen along the way though we all managed to complete it satisfactorily. The general rule seems to be avoiding budget tour package especially to China as visitors are "expected" to buy, to be surprised with changes and properly a mismatch of delivery of services and products.
If you are interest, click "教我如何不宰你" to read and to learn more about life as a China tour guide.
The book was published in 2006 on traveling but focused on tour guide. Not how to be one but the dark and ugly side of being a tour guide as a profession. The author is from China and he has been a tour guide for more than 10 years.
The main source of all these rooted to the fact of charging too low or no fees at all of joining a tour group. At the macro level, the governance system is not good enough to facilitate a healthy development of the industry. The result of it is that the tour guide has to coax or "force" travelers to buy more and to visit more factory outlets to meet the expected "quota" to cover the cost of the trip and even to make money for the agency. At the same time, the tour arrangement may have to reduce or cut cost on food, accommodation, itinerary etc. The whole travel experience is affected with complains, unhappiness and at times, violence. Tour guide does not has a basic salary and for those few that have it, they are expected to help out in the agency when there is no assignment. If anything happens, tour guide has to bear the consequences fully.
It's sad to read about it. Traveling is suppose to be fun, enjoyable, safe and happy. But it may not be case if joining a tour group. Though I would prefer planning my own trip and I do most of my overseas holiday, I have also joined tour group on a few occasions.
The best was the one that I went to Tokyo. The tour guide was a lady and she was experienced enough to conduct a meaningful and pleasant trip throughout the journey. At least I din feel that I was "forced" to accept or visiting nonsense places or the need to buy stuff. :-) The other few, something did happen along the way though we all managed to complete it satisfactorily. The general rule seems to be avoiding budget tour package especially to China as visitors are "expected" to buy, to be surprised with changes and properly a mismatch of delivery of services and products.
If you are interest, click "教我如何不宰你" to read and to learn more about life as a China tour guide.
Sunday, July 4, 2010
My top 10
You may aware of a book titled as "1,000 places to see before you die". I am sure everyone will be delighted to visit 1,000 places globally before exiting from the stage. Unfortunately, we all also know that it is not possible :-( The 2nd best possible way is to identify what one's feel is worth visiting / doing and plan out the schedule year after year. My top 10 in the wish list (not in order of preference) at the moment is as follow
- The Silk Road;
- Samba Festival in Brazil;
- Egypt;
- Xi'an;
- Hokkaido;
- Tibet;
- New York;
- Switzerland ;
- Trekking Mt Fuji;
- Safari in South African;
In addition, I will be revisiting some of the countries / places on top of the list above as there is still room for further exploration and engaging in various interesting activities (eg. skiing in South Korea). Resources is, indeed, running short and tight.
I am planning my this year end holiday now. Destination - Melbourne.
- The Silk Road;
- Samba Festival in Brazil;
- Egypt;
- Xi'an;
- Hokkaido;
- Tibet;
- New York;
- Switzerland ;
- Trekking Mt Fuji;
- Safari in South African;
In addition, I will be revisiting some of the countries / places on top of the list above as there is still room for further exploration and engaging in various interesting activities (eg. skiing in South Korea). Resources is, indeed, running short and tight.
I am planning my this year end holiday now. Destination - Melbourne.
Saturday, July 3, 2010
Taiwan Trip 2010 - Restaurant 青叶
Quite a number of exciting food in Taiwan can be found along the street and night markets. Hence, we din go to restaurants for most of our meals during the 9 days holiday except two meals, one dinner in 青叶 and one lunch in 鼎泰丰. Both can be considered Taiwan's icon especially the 鼎泰丰 which has ventured out to other countries such as Singapore, Hong Kong, China and Malaysia.
青叶 provides Taiwan Cuisine (ie 台菜 or 台湾料理). It is one of the oldest brand. It also happened that the restaurant was pretty near to where we were staying ie walking distance, that we decided to give it a try. :-)
What did we order for dinner ?
- 九孔 (Abalone, cold dish)
- 乌鱼子 (BBQ fish egg or Mullet Roe)
- 菜莆蛋 (Fried egg with caipu)
- 豆腐 (Bean curd)
- 地瓜粥 (Plain porridge with sweet potato).
What excited us most is the 九孔 and 乌鱼子.
乌鱼子 is Taiwan local specialty. You eat together with slides of radish and onion to reduce its salty taste due to seasoning and fishy smell. I was quite hesitated to try it as I am very afraid of fishy smell. Hence, I started with a small bite initially. Well, not too bad and it tasted like cheese. ;-)
What is so special about 九孔 is the sauce. It blends with the abalone very well. I was surprised of the abalone size, bigger than I though it would be.
Though the other three dishes were more commonly known, the 菜莆蛋 tasted very nice and professional done. I enjoyed it very much. The porridge itself was also an excellent dish. I can just eat it plainly without the need to order dishes.It was served warmly, not too cold or hot. It was very tasty and well cooked. Simple yet a great dish.
The service was pretty good. Staff was attentive and polite. We ended the dinner with a complimentary dessert, warm green bean soup. Half of the total bill went for the 乌鱼子. Overall, it was much cheaper as compared to eating it locally at 欣叶, another Taiwan's brand but has ventured out. We had a nice, full and enjoyable dinner. Will go again when i next visit Taiwan. There are still a few dishes yet to try it out.
See u again, 青叶
青叶 provides Taiwan Cuisine (ie 台菜 or 台湾料理). It is one of the oldest brand. It also happened that the restaurant was pretty near to where we were staying ie walking distance, that we decided to give it a try. :-)
What did we order for dinner ?
- 九孔 (Abalone, cold dish)
- 乌鱼子 (BBQ fish egg or Mullet Roe)
- 菜莆蛋 (Fried egg with caipu)
- 豆腐 (Bean curd)
- 地瓜粥 (Plain porridge with sweet potato).
What excited us most is the 九孔 and 乌鱼子.乌鱼子 is Taiwan local specialty. You eat together with slides of radish and onion to reduce its salty taste due to seasoning and fishy smell. I was quite hesitated to try it as I am very afraid of fishy smell. Hence, I started with a small bite initially. Well, not too bad and it tasted like cheese. ;-)
What is so special about 九孔 is the sauce. It blends with the abalone very well. I was surprised of the abalone size, bigger than I though it would be.
Though the other three dishes were more commonly known, the 菜莆蛋 tasted very nice and professional done. I enjoyed it very much. The porridge itself was also an excellent dish. I can just eat it plainly without the need to order dishes.It was served warmly, not too cold or hot. It was very tasty and well cooked. Simple yet a great dish.
The service was pretty good. Staff was attentive and polite. We ended the dinner with a complimentary dessert, warm green bean soup. Half of the total bill went for the 乌鱼子. Overall, it was much cheaper as compared to eating it locally at 欣叶, another Taiwan's brand but has ventured out. We had a nice, full and enjoyable dinner. Will go again when i next visit Taiwan. There are still a few dishes yet to try it out.
See u again, 青叶
Friday, July 2, 2010
Taiwan Trip 2010 - Shifen
One of the common and interesting places to go when visiting Taiwan is Jiufen (九份). In fact, most of the time, it means Jiufen old street whereby visitors will walk through with many stalls selling different products and accessories.
There is also another interesting place but less commonly considered especially if you are in a tour group. The place is called Shifen (十份). It is located along the Pinxi (平溪）sub-railway trail. Three activities to consider in Shifen: release sky-lantern (天灯）, natural waterfall （十份瀑布）and the small town itself. Though a small town, it is a place with characters: peaceful, simple and naturally beautiful.
The buildings and shops are arranged along the railway track. All activities also happen along the railway track. It's a pretty unique experience. Nobody will dominate it but gracefully co-exist with each other. No fast food chain, no Starbucks and no shopping centre. Just a few coffee shop selling drinks and local food. Simple lifestyle. In addition, the place is clean. No odd smell.
Most visitors will likely to engage in releasing the sky-lantern here. NT$100 each (about S$4.50). you write and draw your best wishes on it before releasing it. Great feeling to see one lantern raising one after another.
Photos will tell you much more about it :-)
Besides Shifen, you can also release sky lantern at the Pinxi station, 2 stations away from Shifen. Accordingly to news reporting, it was very very crowded on the 15th day of the Chinese New Year as many people will travel to Pinxi to release sky lanterns as part of the celebration. I am sure thousands of sky lanterns would have scattered and brightened the sky with marvelous view.
Along the way, we ran into two couples taking their wedding photo around the area. It is, indeed, a very nice and unique place to be considered for it.
Though the signage shows that it takes 22 minutes to walk from the train station to the waterfall, it will likely to take 30 minutes or more per way. It can be quite a challenging walk out in the nature, sweaty. However, the waterfall is worth a view. :-) The only "complaint" that I have is the need to pay for an entrance fee to see it as it is managed by a private organization.
The visit to Shifen give me a pretty refreshing view of Taiwan as it has much more to offer than just shopping, night markets, street food etc. How to go toShifen ? Take a train from Taipei Main Station to Rueifang (瑞芳）station. Buy a unlimited day ride along the Pinxi line. Shifen is just one of the few stations along the Pinxi line. You can also visit the other stations along the way. The most important thing to look out for is the arriving time of the train as it will be at least an hour of waiting if u miss it. Ha...ha...ha...
There is also another interesting place but less commonly considered especially if you are in a tour group. The place is called Shifen (十份). It is located along the Pinxi (平溪）sub-railway trail. Three activities to consider in Shifen: release sky-lantern (天灯）, natural waterfall （十份瀑布）and the small town itself. Though a small town, it is a place with characters: peaceful, simple and naturally beautiful.
The buildings and shops are arranged along the railway track. All activities also happen along the railway track. It's a pretty unique experience. Nobody will dominate it but gracefully co-exist with each other. No fast food chain, no Starbucks and no shopping centre. Just a few coffee shop selling drinks and local food. Simple lifestyle. In addition, the place is clean. No odd smell.Most visitors will likely to engage in releasing the sky-lantern here. NT$100 each (about S$4.50). you write and draw your best wishes on it before releasing it. Great feeling to see one lantern raising one after another.
Besides Shifen, you can also release sky lantern at the Pinxi station, 2 stations away from Shifen. Accordingly to news reporting, it was very very crowded on the 15th day of the Chinese New Year as many people will travel to Pinxi to release sky lanterns as part of the celebration. I am sure thousands of sky lanterns would have scattered and brightened the sky with marvelous view.
Though the signage shows that it takes 22 minutes to walk from the train station to the waterfall, it will likely to take 30 minutes or more per way. It can be quite a challenging walk out in the nature, sweaty. However, the waterfall is worth a view. :-) The only "complaint" that I have is the need to pay for an entrance fee to see it as it is managed by a private organization.
The visit to Shifen give me a pretty refreshing view of Taiwan as it has much more to offer than just shopping, night markets, street food etc. How to go toShifen ? Take a train from Taipei Main Station to Rueifang (瑞芳）station. Buy a unlimited day ride along the Pinxi line. Shifen is just one of the few stations along the Pinxi line. You can also visit the other stations along the way. The most important thing to look out for is the arriving time of the train as it will be at least an hour of waiting if u miss it. Ha...ha...ha...
Sunday, June 27, 2010
Taiwan Trip 2010
Had a fruitful and fun Taiwan trip. Done much research for the 9 days holiday. In summary, we have done the following:
(a) Visited 5 night markets: 士林夜市，师大夜市，六合夜市，南华夜市，基隆庙口夜市;
(b) Travel around using the MRT （捷运）, Highspeed train （高铁）, local train （台铁), taxi, as well as local buses （客运） to many places (both the city as well as country side);
(c) Stayed in three hotels in total. Enjoyed very much what the boutique hotel is able to provide + great services;
(d) A lot of shopping. Bought much stationery and 30 Chinese books and DvDs;
(e) Something that is pretty unique - 放天灯;
(f) Abler to watch the World Cup everyday. All the daily 3 matches were available live in all the hotels that we had stayed in with no extra cost;
(g) Tried many food from the street, 便当 in train as well as in a restaurant;
However, we just manage to cover a small percentage of what Taiwan is offering. Will definitely visit Taiwan again to explore other interesting places, soon :-)
(a) Visited 5 night markets: 士林夜市，师大夜市，六合夜市，南华夜市，基隆庙口夜市;
(b) Travel around using the MRT （捷运）, Highspeed train （高铁）, local train （台铁), taxi, as well as local buses （客运） to many places (both the city as well as country side);
(c) Stayed in three hotels in total. Enjoyed very much what the boutique hotel is able to provide + great services;
(d) A lot of shopping. Bought much stationery and 30 Chinese books and DvDs;
(e) Something that is pretty unique - 放天灯;
(f) Abler to watch the World Cup everyday. All the daily 3 matches were available live in all the hotels that we had stayed in with no extra cost;
(g) Tried many food from the street, 便当 in train as well as in a restaurant;
However, we just manage to cover a small percentage of what Taiwan is offering. Will definitely visit Taiwan again to explore other interesting places, soon :-)
Tuesday, May 11, 2010
Taiwan trip in June 2010
After a few weeks of sourcing and planning, I have drafted out the programme to Taiwan in June 2010.
The focus will still be shopping and eating and not so much on visiting various scenery in Taiwan. Though I use the word Taiwan, we only visiting Taipei and Kaohsiung. Will leave the rest of Taiwan to future package tour.
Added Kaohsiung as I feel that it maybe too long to stay 9 days in Taipei itself. Will be using the Taiwan High Speed Railway from Taipei to Kaohsiung (高铁). Pretty excited over it though it is nothing new. Will reserve the tickets online prior to leaving for Taipei. Will visit a few night markets in both cities and try out as many local food as possible. I have already identified a few books to buy from the trip. Instead of staying in a typical hotel, we have opted for boutique hotel. It comes with a modern and cosy feel, facilities and stay. Another thing that we want to try is to light up and release the 孔明灯 （sky lantern). This is definitely pretty new to us and not available here. :-)
Coincidentally, my colleague PK, is also going back to visit his family and friends during the same period. Will meet up with him in Taipei, properly his 老家 (hometown) in 金山 （Jinshan). :-) Hope that we will not inconvenience him too much.
My daughter requested to have her own luggage for the trip. We are sourcing a practical and nice one for her. She enjoys pulling it along. But I am sure we will be the one taking care of it for her throughout the trip :-( The weather is going to be warm and we will have a lighter luggage. Warm clothing take up much space. Most importantly is not to rush at every point of visit. It can be very tiring and make it less enjoyable.
The focus will still be shopping and eating and not so much on visiting various scenery in Taiwan. Though I use the word Taiwan, we only visiting Taipei and Kaohsiung. Will leave the rest of Taiwan to future package tour.
Added Kaohsiung as I feel that it maybe too long to stay 9 days in Taipei itself. Will be using the Taiwan High Speed Railway from Taipei to Kaohsiung (高铁). Pretty excited over it though it is nothing new. Will reserve the tickets online prior to leaving for Taipei. Will visit a few night markets in both cities and try out as many local food as possible. I have already identified a few books to buy from the trip. Instead of staying in a typical hotel, we have opted for boutique hotel. It comes with a modern and cosy feel, facilities and stay. Another thing that we want to try is to light up and release the 孔明灯 （sky lantern). This is definitely pretty new to us and not available here. :-)
Coincidentally, my colleague PK, is also going back to visit his family and friends during the same period. Will meet up with him in Taipei, properly his 老家 (hometown) in 金山 （Jinshan). :-) Hope that we will not inconvenience him too much.
My daughter requested to have her own luggage for the trip. We are sourcing a practical and nice one for her. She enjoys pulling it along. But I am sure we will be the one taking care of it for her throughout the trip :-( The weather is going to be warm and we will have a lighter luggage. Warm clothing take up much space. Most importantly is not to rush at every point of visit. It can be very tiring and make it less enjoyable.
Monday, April 26, 2010
Budget airline and air tickets
Started to plan my June overseas trip a few weeks ago. Going to Taipei and Kaohisung for the food, shopping and books, free & easy arrangement. First thing first is to confirm air tickets. We dun quite enjoy package tour and din really consider the option at all.
Since my daughter is older now, I went for the budget airline as my first choice and zoom into Jetstar's pricing. Not too bad, S$1,300+ for three persons (including all taxes) and the timings for both inbound and outbound were great as well. However, I did not reserve any bookings as I could not confirm a date yet. A week later, a similar search returned with a new pricing, as expected but S$1,900+ for three persons. I dun think it is a good idea to pay S$600 more for nothing extra in return.
Adjusted my search to also include all usual airlines. Initial results showed that I would be paying about the same price as Jetstar. Tough still high but at least I could enjoy more service for the extra S$500 to S$600. Again, I din make any reservation. Continue to monitor the prices over 1 to 2 weeks and found a Maybank promotion traveling by Cathay Pacific. S$1,500+ for three persons via Hong Kong. The timings options were pretty good too. Decided to check Jetstar again and it is still quoting me at S$1,900+. Finally made the reservation 3 days ago and got my eTickets today.
Budget Airline does not necessary mean cheaper traveling. If it is not offering the best possible value air ticket, then why called itself a budget airline. Something seems to be pretty wrong in its business operation. In fact, the price is slight more expensive than SQ pricing.
Ha...ha...ha... it sounds like a joke to me. Emm....I am sure it is a joke but not for me - for Jetstar.
Air tickets settled, next will be the planning of the accommodation and programme for the entire 9 days, 8 nights trip. The fun part of going for a free & easy traveling is that we get to decide what we want to do and enjoy, day and night :-)
Since my daughter is older now, I went for the budget airline as my first choice and zoom into Jetstar's pricing. Not too bad, S$1,300+ for three persons (including all taxes) and the timings for both inbound and outbound were great as well. However, I did not reserve any bookings as I could not confirm a date yet. A week later, a similar search returned with a new pricing, as expected but S$1,900+ for three persons. I dun think it is a good idea to pay S$600 more for nothing extra in return.
Adjusted my search to also include all usual airlines. Initial results showed that I would be paying about the same price as Jetstar. Tough still high but at least I could enjoy more service for the extra S$500 to S$600. Again, I din make any reservation. Continue to monitor the prices over 1 to 2 weeks and found a Maybank promotion traveling by Cathay Pacific. S$1,500+ for three persons via Hong Kong. The timings options were pretty good too. Decided to check Jetstar again and it is still quoting me at S$1,900+. Finally made the reservation 3 days ago and got my eTickets today.
Budget Airline does not necessary mean cheaper traveling. If it is not offering the best possible value air ticket, then why called itself a budget airline. Something seems to be pretty wrong in its business operation. In fact, the price is slight more expensive than SQ pricing.
Ha...ha...ha... it sounds like a joke to me. Emm....I am sure it is a joke but not for me - for Jetstar.
Air tickets settled, next will be the planning of the accommodation and programme for the entire 9 days, 8 nights trip. The fun part of going for a free & easy traveling is that we get to decide what we want to do and enjoy, day and night :-)
Friday, March 12, 2010
Nice Food in HK
Wang Cafe, Toastbox, Ya Kun ....
I am sure u are familiar with these names. They provide coffee/tea and kaya toast daily in shopping areas island-wide. Not to forget the soft-boiled eggs :-) These are pretty traditional and local food. Of course, some of the names have ventured out to regional area such as Hong Kong, Tokyo etc.
I visited a very local food stall in Hong Kong recently that provides similar type of food but with a different twist to it. The stall name is Lan Fong Yuan (兰芳园) located in Hong Kong Island itself. This is properly the best place that provides smooth and fragrant HK milk tea. Most importantly, it is reasonably priced.
How to access the place ? Take MTR to the Central station and take a short walk along the Queen's Road Central until u reached a junction with a staircase leading u to a escalator. This is the longest outdoor escalator built to facilitate users to "climb" up and cutting across a few streets. The area here is pretty steep and the escalator is definitely a very useful and practical help. There are a few connectors along the escalator and u will see Lan Fong Yuan signage on one of these connectors. U should reach the place within 25 minutes after getting out of the MTR station.
The stall sits along a normal wet market street. U will see stalls selling pork, vegetables, fish and seafood etc. Luckily not smelly at all. Lan Fong Yuan is a very small outlet with not many seats. Customer service is acceptable. Not very noisy. I am sure it could be a long wait during peak hours.
We ordered the smooth HK milk tea, toasted bread coated with condensed milk / butter and pork chop bun. The food is well done and presentable. Of course, all tasted nice especially the toasted bread - fresh and crispy. My suggestion is to visit the stall for breakfast or as one of a resting point for a tea break. We just happen to order these three items. There are many other items on the menu.
How do i know about the place ? I happen to read about it when I was reading an article in Zaobao. Google for more information and decided to give it a try. Well, it was a great attempt :-) Will go back again when i visit HK next.
Btw, Cailan recommended it too. U will also see photos showing HK celebrities visiting the stall as well as food review by various magazines.
I am sure u are familiar with these names. They provide coffee/tea and kaya toast daily in shopping areas island-wide. Not to forget the soft-boiled eggs :-) These are pretty traditional and local food. Of course, some of the names have ventured out to regional area such as Hong Kong, Tokyo etc.
I visited a very local food stall in Hong Kong recently that provides similar type of food but with a different twist to it. The stall name is Lan Fong Yuan (兰芳园) located in Hong Kong Island itself. This is properly the best place that provides smooth and fragrant HK milk tea. Most importantly, it is reasonably priced.
How to access the place ? Take MTR to the Central station and take a short walk along the Queen's Road Central until u reached a junction with a staircase leading u to a escalator. This is the longest outdoor escalator built to facilitate users to "climb" up and cutting across a few streets. The area here is pretty steep and the escalator is definitely a very useful and practical help. There are a few connectors along the escalator and u will see Lan Fong Yuan signage on one of these connectors. U should reach the place within 25 minutes after getting out of the MTR station.
The stall sits along a normal wet market street. U will see stalls selling pork, vegetables, fish and seafood etc. Luckily not smelly at all. Lan Fong Yuan is a very small outlet with not many seats. Customer service is acceptable. Not very noisy. I am sure it could be a long wait during peak hours.
We ordered the smooth HK milk tea, toasted bread coated with condensed milk / butter and pork chop bun. The food is well done and presentable. Of course, all tasted nice especially the toasted bread - fresh and crispy. My suggestion is to visit the stall for breakfast or as one of a resting point for a tea break. We just happen to order these three items. There are many other items on the menu.
How do i know about the place ? I happen to read about it when I was reading an article in Zaobao. Google for more information and decided to give it a try. Well, it was a great attempt :-) Will go back again when i visit HK next.
Btw, Cailan recommended it too. U will also see photos showing HK celebrities visiting the stall as well as food review by various magazines.
Tuesday, January 19, 2010
Planning a trip to Cambodia as a team
The idea of going to Cambodia came along while we were lunching a few days ago.
Going to Cambodia for team building and having some relaxing moment away from work using own expenses. Very quickly, we zoomed into the possible dates and budget that we are comfortable with. Date is identified and planning kick off. Perfect :-)
It is a short trip with a simple itinerary - to travel on a budget airplane to Siam Reap to visit the Angkor Wat, to explore nearby areas and the city. Any official agenda/expectations ? Nope. It will fail if we have one. Hope all can make it though it is optional.
I believe it is a great attempt, in fact one that should be encouraged, to unwind and having more time to enjoy and knowing a bit more of each other freely/leisurely. The shared experience is likely to keep a functional working relationship and something for all .... yup yup, u know, I had a short overseas trip with my team once .... and the story unfolds.
I believe we are going to enjoy it and less than 2 months to go :-)
Ha...ha...ha...
Going to Cambodia for team building and having some relaxing moment away from work using own expenses. Very quickly, we zoomed into the possible dates and budget that we are comfortable with. Date is identified and planning kick off. Perfect :-)
It is a short trip with a simple itinerary - to travel on a budget airplane to Siam Reap to visit the Angkor Wat, to explore nearby areas and the city. Any official agenda/expectations ? Nope. It will fail if we have one. Hope all can make it though it is optional.
I believe it is a great attempt, in fact one that should be encouraged, to unwind and having more time to enjoy and knowing a bit more of each other freely/leisurely. The shared experience is likely to keep a functional working relationship and something for all .... yup yup, u know, I had a short overseas trip with my team once .... and the story unfolds.
I believe we are going to enjoy it and less than 2 months to go :-)
Ha...ha...ha...
Monday, January 11, 2010
Tokyo 2009 - Noodle
We wanted to have porridge for breakfast but the shop was not ready until 11am. While wondering what else to try, we spotted the noodle shop just opposite the porridge shop. It looked decent and traditional enough. What caught our eyes us was the vending machine at the entrance. Instead of ordering dishes with staff from a menu, customers will order the dishes by buying relevant tickets from the machine and then passed it to the counter. We had a great experience years back in Tokyo and decide to give it a try. It was, indeed, another great attempt :-)
The dishes were priced more affordable about 600 to 1,000 yen per item ie S$9 to S$16 per item. Again, we were quite confused over the wordings displayed on the machine and to our surprise, one of the lady staff came to help out and spoken to us in Mandarin. She is from China and has been working a few years in Japan. While waiting for the staff to cook, she served us three glasses of cold water. We were puzzle as it was pretty cold outside and they served cold drink (icy cold water) instead of warm water. On our second visit, I asked another lady, who is also from China, why and she shared that it was Japanese's practise.
The staff cooked all dishes in front of customers as we wait. The kitchen is very functional and high tech. Properly expensive to employ too many staff, they have a noodle cooking machine that can cook a few bowls of noodles at the same time each with a timer. Cool :-)
How does the noodles taste ?
Well, very tasty and nice. I liked and enjoyed the vegetable noodle soup very much (as shown in the picture below). Mind u, it was, indeed, a big serving. Very filling and satisfied. If you are a super super eater, request to upsize it by paying another 100 yen (ie S$1.6) and you could be drowned in it. Ha...ha...ha... I should say that my whole family enjoyed it very much. My daughter told FP that she liked the noodle. We all miss it a lot :-(
The shop is located in the Keio Shopping Mall in the southern part of the shopping area within the main Shinjuku train station. Not likely to be mentioned in most of the travel guides but must try it. :-)
The dishes were priced more affordable about 600 to 1,000 yen per item ie S$9 to S$16 per item. Again, we were quite confused over the wordings displayed on the machine and to our surprise, one of the lady staff came to help out and spoken to us in Mandarin. She is from China and has been working a few years in Japan. While waiting for the staff to cook, she served us three glasses of cold water. We were puzzle as it was pretty cold outside and they served cold drink (icy cold water) instead of warm water. On our second visit, I asked another lady, who is also from China, why and she shared that it was Japanese's practise.
The staff cooked all dishes in front of customers as we wait. The kitchen is very functional and high tech. Properly expensive to employ too many staff, they have a noodle cooking machine that can cook a few bowls of noodles at the same time each with a timer. Cool :-)
How does the noodles taste ?
Well, very tasty and nice. I liked and enjoyed the vegetable noodle soup very much (as shown in the picture below). Mind u, it was, indeed, a big serving. Very filling and satisfied. If you are a super super eater, request to upsize it by paying another 100 yen (ie S$1.6) and you could be drowned in it. Ha...ha...ha... I should say that my whole family enjoyed it very much. My daughter told FP that she liked the noodle. We all miss it a lot :-(
The shop is located in the Keio Shopping Mall in the southern part of the shopping area within the main Shinjuku train station. Not likely to be mentioned in most of the travel guides but must try it. :-)
Tokyo 2009 - Bus services in Shinjuku area
On our last day in Tokyo, we found that there was a city bus service that move around linking the east and west part of Shinjuku. Though the service is not free, it provided much convenience for us as there was a bus stop right in front of the hotel that we were staying. Else, we would have to walk 10 to 15 minutes from the Shinjuku Station back to the hotel again. It's very tiring to walk back with a heavy bag filled with purchase and my daughter's basic items.
If you are visiting Tokyo and happen to stay in the Shinjuku area, you may want to consider using the service. It charges 100 yen per person (ie S$1.5 to S$1.6). The bus was very comfortable and nice. It was also pretty warm inside :-) However, the bus driver on that trip was not so friendly. There are 10 stops in the whole journey and it gives visitors a good orientation / introduction of the Shinjuku area. Each bus stop stand also printed the estimated arrival time of the bus and the whole journey. Pretty informative.
If you are going to the main avaShinjuku train station, alight at bus stop 1;
If you are going to the red light district, alight at bus stop 2;
If you are going to the Times Square, alight at bus stop 4;
If you are staying in Shinjuku Washington hotel, alight at bus stop 6;
etc
For more information, you can access its website , available in English, Chinese, Japanese and Korean languages. It is strange that the hotel din share the services with us, ie for their customers ?
Friday, January 1, 2010
Year 2010
It's a new beginning year - 2010
A good number, indeed, for a 4D :-)
Still on leave and flying off to Hong Kong for a short holiday. Has been there for quite a number of times and hence, not very keen and wun be visiting the usual attractions. This trip will focus on enjoying the nice food recommended and doing a bit of shopping for the Chinese New Year and as usual, books and magazines. Will move around to some new places to explore leisurely. It will be a no rush and causal week. Hong Kong seems to becoming my usual destination to relax, to eat, to shop and wandering around.
New Year Resolution ? What is that ? for kids ?
Try to have a resolution. Emm..... to enjoy and explore life ba. :-)
Happy New Year to all.
A good number, indeed, for a 4D :-)
Still on leave and flying off to Hong Kong for a short holiday. Has been there for quite a number of times and hence, not very keen and wun be visiting the usual attractions. This trip will focus on enjoying the nice food recommended and doing a bit of shopping for the Chinese New Year and as usual, books and magazines. Will move around to some new places to explore leisurely. It will be a no rush and causal week. Hong Kong seems to becoming my usual destination to relax, to eat, to shop and wandering around.
New Year Resolution ? What is that ? for kids ?
Try to have a resolution. Emm..... to enjoy and explore life ba. :-)
Happy New Year to all.
Saturday, December 26, 2009
Tokyo Trip 2009
Stayed in Tokyo for 6 nights. Visited 3 theme parks (Hello Kitty, Disney Tokyo and Disney Sea Tokyo), shopped at the Shibuya and Roppongi areas / Tsukiji Fish Market / Sensoji Temple and tried as many new food outlets as possible (especially the local dishes). Most of the places mentioned are my first visit except the Disney, Tsukiji Fish Market and Sensoji Temple.
As compare to 7 years ago, not much major changes in Disney Tokyo. Food served in the theme park is still very expensive and not that tasty. However, I think Disney Tokyo has added more parades and live performance in the programme. It's good for me as I enjoyed these parades and live performance very much because it is entertaining, colourful and creative. The theme seemed to serve more different flavour pop corn (black pepper, honey, strawberry, curry etc) now with nice colourful containers. Really know how to make money from the visitors. It costed S$22 to S$25 per container. S$8 to refill. The strawberry pop corn tastes and smells very nice :-)
Tsukiji Fish Market gives me more local context and content. No aircon, a lot of traffic and pretty messy as it is a wholesales fish market. We went for the sushi and fresh raw fish for breakfast. While the food is fine, what is most enjoyable is to appreciate the culture and ambience of eating in the outlet. Chef prepares your order right in front of u and good customer service. Long queue and needed to have some patience.
Sensoji Temple enjoys the same status as the local Kuan Yin Temple along the Waterloo Street but with more historical years. While both temples are comparable, the standard of the stalls along the road sides is like comparing one from a third world and one from a world class. The stalls that lead to teh Sensoji Temple are organized, presentable, clean and sells more interesting stuff /food. The only funny and restrictive thing is that you can only consume food within or nearby the stall itself. It's a cultural stuff ? Maybe.
I will go to these three places again when I visit Tokyo next time. It is an enjoyable experience to be in these three places. :-)
As compare to 7 years ago, not much major changes in Disney Tokyo. Food served in the theme park is still very expensive and not that tasty. However, I think Disney Tokyo has added more parades and live performance in the programme. It's good for me as I enjoyed these parades and live performance very much because it is entertaining, colourful and creative. The theme seemed to serve more different flavour pop corn (black pepper, honey, strawberry, curry etc) now with nice colourful containers. Really know how to make money from the visitors. It costed S$22 to S$25 per container. S$8 to refill. The strawberry pop corn tastes and smells very nice :-)
Tsukiji Fish Market gives me more local context and content. No aircon, a lot of traffic and pretty messy as it is a wholesales fish market. We went for the sushi and fresh raw fish for breakfast. While the food is fine, what is most enjoyable is to appreciate the culture and ambience of eating in the outlet. Chef prepares your order right in front of u and good customer service. Long queue and needed to have some patience.
Sensoji Temple enjoys the same status as the local Kuan Yin Temple along the Waterloo Street but with more historical years. While both temples are comparable, the standard of the stalls along the road sides is like comparing one from a third world and one from a world class. The stalls that lead to teh Sensoji Temple are organized, presentable, clean and sells more interesting stuff /food. The only funny and restrictive thing is that you can only consume food within or nearby the stall itself. It's a cultural stuff ? Maybe.
I will go to these three places again when I visit Tokyo next time. It is an enjoyable experience to be in these three places. :-)
Monday, December 21, 2009
Started annual vocation
Have been on leave for a week since my last event on 13 Dec 09. This year, I have a full month annual leave so as to clear my last year leave. I dun have much time to cleat it earlier as there is pretty much to do in office in the past few months. I am planning to leave for good, with or without a new job. Anyway, many more upcoming and since I am on leave, I wun want to think about it until I am back to office later :-)
Writing this entry in the Shinjuku Washington Hotel now. Free broadband access in the room. Reached Tokyo today and the weather here is very cold. I am happy that my daughter din make much noise along the way, 6 hours of flight and 1.5 hours of bus ride. She did express her impatient but manage to engage her. The day is shorter than night now in Tokyo and it was pretty dark when the bus left for Tokyo city from the airport though it was only 5pm local time (ie 4pm in Singapore). I dun quite like it.
It is, indeed, very cold. My daughter is more excited over her new attire. Couldn't wait to put it on the moment we touched down. Ha...ha...ha... It's a tiring day and din explore much today. Will begin tmr :-)
Writing this entry in the Shinjuku Washington Hotel now. Free broadband access in the room. Reached Tokyo today and the weather here is very cold. I am happy that my daughter din make much noise along the way, 6 hours of flight and 1.5 hours of bus ride. She did express her impatient but manage to engage her. The day is shorter than night now in Tokyo and it was pretty dark when the bus left for Tokyo city from the airport though it was only 5pm local time (ie 4pm in Singapore). I dun quite like it.
It is, indeed, very cold. My daughter is more excited over her new attire. Couldn't wait to put it on the moment we touched down. Ha...ha...ha... It's a tiring day and din explore much today. Will begin tmr :-)
Wednesday, October 28, 2009
Tokyo
Was planning to visit Hokkaido this year but we are not allowed to extend if we go for the package tour. Since we have shared with girl girl to visit the Disney and Seaworld Tokyo, we decided to go Tokyo first and visit Hokkaido in the near future.
My first visit to Tokyo was 7 years ago when I was on school holiday while taking my Master programme. It was, indeed, a great place to visit and I had enjoyed it very much. Japan demonstrated the meaning of a gracious society and we still have a lot to catch up. It has a very rich and interesting culture. There are so many good things to talk about Japan and Tokyo. The only thing is that it is pretty expensive to be in Japan and Tokyo.
We din sign up for Tokyo package tour rather go for a free and easy arrangement. Again, staying in Shinjuku area but in a different hotel. Weather is going to be cold. Looking forward to the public bath and tasting the local dishes.
7 years, I am sure there would be much changes and many more to explore. Ha...ha...ha...
My first visit to Tokyo was 7 years ago when I was on school holiday while taking my Master programme. It was, indeed, a great place to visit and I had enjoyed it very much. Japan demonstrated the meaning of a gracious society and we still have a lot to catch up. It has a very rich and interesting culture. There are so many good things to talk about Japan and Tokyo. The only thing is that it is pretty expensive to be in Japan and Tokyo.
We din sign up for Tokyo package tour rather go for a free and easy arrangement. Again, staying in Shinjuku area but in a different hotel. Weather is going to be cold. Looking forward to the public bath and tasting the local dishes.
7 years, I am sure there would be much changes and many more to explore. Ha...ha...ha...
Wednesday, June 24, 2009
A380
Another A380 destination from Singapore Airlines - Hong Kong
I have been planning to try A380 for my holiday and it seems like it is more possible now. To better enjoy the A380 facilities and services, a longer flight distance is prefer. I will prefer taking A380 to Japan and Paris. Hong Kong is just slightly too short a distance especially if the price of the air ticket is higher than the usual SQ.
A380 to KL next ?
Wednesday, June 17, 2009
Bali Club Med (3)
While we were having a relaxing moment at the bar counter, a G.O. came and started to talk to us. She asked where we were from, how long we have been in the village and how was the stay so far etc. She also started to engage my daughter and I captured their conversation in the following video:
I was surprised that my daughter was willing to talk to her and did it pretty well. :-)
The staff is a Singaporean and understudying the Chief at the moment in running the whole village, ie properly to success the current Chief in the near future. All the best :p
I was surprised that my daughter was willing to talk to her and did it pretty well. :-)
The staff is a Singaporean and understudying the Chief at the moment in running the whole village, ie properly to success the current Chief in the near future. All the best :p
Friday, June 12, 2009
Bali Club Med (2)
Another way to describe Club Med is its facilities and activities for the guests.
Facilities for the individuals:
Cycling / jogging track; gym; swimming pool, pool table; sports centre; spa centre; sea sports centre; beautiful landscape; theater hall; bar; beach etc (note: As I was taking some of the following few photos, i suddenly realized that it looked like our East Coast Park, one that is being privatized)
Facilities for the families with kids:
Petit Club (2 - 4 years old), mini kid Club (4 - 10 years old) and juniors club (11 - 17 years old). Each club has its own specific location within the village that comes with own facilities such as playground, kid's pool for water play, activity room etc
The daily activities makes these facilities alive than as a white elephant. The G.O. will organize various tournaments at the sports centre such as basketball, badminton, football competition; teaching the guests how to wind surfing, kaya, trapeze; games on the beach as well as in the swimming pool; 3 sessions of yoga a day etc
At night, the theater hall is dressed up for more actions. The G.O. will put up an hour of performance with a daily theme from 9.30pm onwards. Prior to the performance, there would be a cocktail reception for the guests and G.O. to mingle over drinks. The reception corner is, indeed, specifically setup using the local cultural as the theme with different daily decor + smoothing lighting.
At times, simple games such beer drinking competition is conducted or a live band show by the staff. During the performance, the MC will engage the guests to join in to dance with the music by following a few simple steps. The night is not over after watching the performance. The MC will lead the Guests, as part of the mass dance participation, into the bar counter area which by then would be turned into a dance floor with more music, drinks and dancing to late night.
My friends, it's party time :-)
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