Astro Galaxy Travel

2010 Singapore Garden Festival

2010-07-20T13:46:00.031+08:00

Singapore Garden Festival 2010
Date : 15 - 22 July 2010
Venue : Suntec City Hall 4 and Hall 6
Opening hours : 10am - 10 pm

Ticket Price S$ (Weekend / Weekday)
Adult : S$12/8
Concession (Child, Student or Senior Citizen): S$8/5
8-Day Pass : S$25/25
*Free for children below 0.9m

Venue : Suntec City Hall 6
Over here are the Lanscape Gardens, Fantasy Gardens, Floral Windows to the World, Hospitality Pavilions and General Displays.

Fantasy Garden
Title : The Last Australian Garden
Designers : Rick Eckersley, Myles Broad & Scott Leung (Australia)
This is one of my favourite exhibit.

Fantasy Garden
Title : The Spice Of Life - A Grenada Garden
Designer : Suzanne Gaywood (United Kingdom/Grenada)

General Displays
Title : The Man Who Planted Trees

I am amazed by this exhibit and it's lighting.
This is my top favourite display for this event!
I took a series of the colour changes and you can view my photos on my facebook.
The link to my FB album is at the end of this post.

The board reads :
The Man Who Planted Trees
This centrepiece is inspired by the French eco-fable,
The Man Who Planted Trees, a charming fictional tale
of a shepherd who set out to reforest the ruined
eco-system of a desolate and abandoned valley in the
foothills of the Alps, near Provence in France.
The story underscores our duty as stewards of the
enviroment that we reside in, and speaks volumes
about how one person's reforestation efforts could
leave an indelible mark on our planet. It also bears
strong similarities with the greening movement
in Singapore.
Our greening journey began about four decades ago
when Minister Mentor Lee Kuan Yew's vision of a
Garden City took shape. Up to today, Minister Mentor
continues to plant a tree annually. Local heroes, with
their tireless efforts, too played an important part in
nurturing Singapore into the Garden City that we are
renowned for today.
The Man Who Planted Trees celebrates the International
Year of Biodiversity 2010, and pays tribute to all the
local heroes who have contributed significantly to the
greening of Singapore.
Hundreds of Singaporeans and residents from all walks
of life have shaped the look of The Man Who Planted
Trees. Just as all of us have a hand in nurturing our
Garden City

Landscape Gardens
Title : Hometown In Tianjin - Surplus Year After Year
Designer : Wang Hong Cheng (China)

Landscape Gardens
Title : Taking A Leaf...
Designer : Peter Cheok (Singapore)

Fantasy Garden
Title : Paradise Lost - An African Fantasy
Designer : David Davidson (South Africa)

Fantasy Gardens
Title : The Mysterious Jungle of Pandora
Designer : Damian Tang (Sinapore)

Landscape Garden
Title : Daintree
Designer : Jim Fogarty (Australia)

Venue : Suntec City Hall 4
On this level, it consists of the Singapore Orchid Show, Market Place, Competitions and General dislays

Market Place at Hall 4 with over 100 retail booths of gardening products.

This is my first visit to the garden festival.
It's a wonderful visit except that I didn't have enough time that day.
I was there for only about 2 hours and I kinda have to rush through the whole event.
Looking forward for the next year, I'll would defintely visit this event again.

To view more photos of 2010 Singapore Garden Festival photos, please click here to visit my Facebook album.

New look!

2010-06-18T15:56:00.004+08:00

Found out that there's some new templates from blogger.
Glad that now I can have some many different choices for the layout.
It's fun to blog again!
I've also change this blog outlook.
Hope you like them too.

Lantau Island

2009-12-14T22:28:00.036+08:00

Lantau Island 大屿山
The largest island in Hong Kong.
Lantau Peak (934m) is the highest point on the island, second highest point in Hong Kong.

Ngong Ping 360 Cable Car

Ngong Ping 360 ticketing office.

The cable car journey is 5.7km.
Travel time is approx. 25 minutes one way.

The weather was cooling, overcast with clouds and was very hazy on that day.
But the view was still spectacular all round.

The large Buddha statue came into view after about 10 minutes of the cable ride.

Ngong Ping Village
Many shops in the village and I especially love one of the shop that sells biscuits and cakes...

Tian Tan Buddha (天坛大佛)

Construction begun in 1990.
This bronze statue Buddha was completed in 1993.
Weighing 250 metric ton and standing at 34 metres tall.
Statue was formed up using 202 pieces of bronze.

There are 268 steps one needed to climb up to reach the Buddha.
Try to walk around the platform area where the Buddha is sitting in the middle, the view around the entire place is beautiful.

Po Lin Monastery 寶蓮禪寺

This Buddhist Monastery was bulit in 1906 by three monks and was original named "The Big Hut" (Da Mao Peng).
Later it was then renamed to "Po Lin Monastery" in 1924.

Due to time constrained, I didn't visit the temple.
But I hope that if I could return to Hong Kong I would like to visit this place.

Typical shops near the Ngong Ping Village.
Very colourful and full of souvenirs.

Time to head back to the Cable Station.

View of Hong Kong airport.

I've come to the end of my Lantau Island trip and hope that you've enjoyed my post!
Thank you and have a Merry Merry Christmas!

Repulse Bay and Aberdeen Fishing Village

2009-11-09T13:09:00.032+08:00

The free & easy tour I've booked comes with a complimentary Hong Kong city tour.
Overall, it was a good experience except that I vomitted all the way in the tour bus on the way to Repulse Bay. LOL!
Ok, back to the city tour.
We were brought to a resturant for "Tim Sum" at an additional cost which would also include the lunch as well.
Afterwhich, it was the Repulse Bay.
Then followed by a Herbal shop and Jellewery Shop...
Which was really a waste of time but it's always a part of the package.
That's how the agency can earn some commission.
Even onboard the journey, the tour guide would start to bring out some stuffs like Disney keychains, watches, pendants...etc. for sale.
My little advice is NOT to buy even though the tour guide claimed it to be "Genuine."
It is better to buy them at the Disneyland!
They also have the service of helping you to order the famous "Wife biscuits" cakes in Yuen Loong and would sent them to your hotel on your day of departure to ensure the freshness of the bisuits.

Hong Kong Seafood resturant
I can't remember which resturant this photo is taken but this is quite a typical outlook for most seafood resturants.
Where customers can pick out fresh Live seafood.

Ah... our breakfast! Tim Sum...my favourite!

Hong Kong - Repulse Bay 淺水灣

The tour guide told us that many HK celebrities live over here as the "Feng Shui" is very good.
The housing prices here is also one of the most expensive in Hong Kong.

REPULSE BAY
In the year 1841, this bay was used as a base by pirates causing serious concern to
foreign merchant ships trading with China. But they were subsequently repulsed by
the British fleet and hence the name Repulse Bay. Because of the shallow water,
the bay was called Tsin-Shui Wan or Shallow Water Bay in Chinese. The
pronunication of Tsin Shui has another meaning a thousand years and it is also
called The Bay of A Thousand Year - A symbol of Longevity.

The Japanese occipational forces first landed at this bay in december 1941 and
its Governor renamed this bay the green seaside beach because of
the green trees along slide the beach with fine golden sand and blue sparkling
waters since the second world war. The urban council has contrbuted a lot to
improve its amenities and made this into a beautiful holiday and tourist resort.

Hong Kong (Fragrant Harbour in Chinese) was a fishing village in 1841 and was
given this name because it produced fragrant wood plants for sale abroad and served
as a fresh water supply station for ships and wessels going overseas.

This plaqae was unveiled by
Mr. Chan Kang - Fout. J.P. on 25-10-1987
Presented by Mrs Yao Lin Sem-Mei

Sea Peace Park / Kwun Yam Shrine
Built in 1970s.
Statues were mostly funded by the locals.
These statues were believed to protect fishermen at the sea and also bring good fortunes.

Kwun Yam statue

Tin Hau Statue

The Longevity Bridge - By crossing the bridge it's said to be able to add 3 more days to your life.

One can throw a coin into the fish mouth to receive good blessings.

God of Wealth 财神

Jumbo Kingdom and Aberdeen Fishing Village
Entrance to the port.
We each have to pay a HK$55.00 for a sampan ride.
Adults and children the same price.
Highly recommended to take the sampan ride as one can see up close with the Jumbo Kingdom and also the fishing village.

Lots of yachts around here.
The tour guide start to point to this one, then that one and so on... It's own by so and so...blah blah blah...
I wasn't really listening, was rather to be busy with my photo taking.

Jumbo Kingdom 珍寶王國
Built in October 1976
The largest floating resturant in the world.
Decorated in anicent chinese imperial palace style.
Didn't have the chance to board Jumbo but would love to if I have the chance to visit Hong Kong again to try their food.

Back view of Jumbo!

Aberdeen Fishing Village 香港仔水上人家
People living in boats as their homes.

Aberdeen is a unique sightseeing experience and interesting place!
This also marks the end of my half day city tour.
Not bad except that I wasn't feeling well that day.
If given a chance, I would love to visit Aberdeen again!

To Hong Kong...in search for Toys!

2009-08-26T13:36:00.035+08:00

Updated Post on 10 December 2009

Singapore Changi Airport

Cathay airplane preparing for boarding to Hong Kong.
The weather was good after a little showers in the morning.
Glad the sun was out and I was so looking forward to visiting Hong Kong.
One of the reasons I chose to visit Hong Kong was to see their toys stores and hopefully get some toys I've been eyeing on.
I've heard from my friends that Hong Kong is a great place to buy toys and with wide selections and prices.

Hong Kong Airport - Arrival

On my 1st day of arrival, it was very misty but the weather is very cooling and pleasant.

Location : Sai Yeung Choi Street (西洋菜街)
MTR Station : MongKong (about 2 mins walk)

Finally, I've reached this place - Sai Yeung Choi Street.
I've been reading so much on the internet about this place, shops full of toys...etc, I was so excited to be there.
As my hotel was near this place, I stroll there.
The first building I visited was CTMA centre (兆萬廣場).
The CTMA centre has many toys stores selling a hugh variety of toys for collections.
It's something similar like the China Sqaure we have in Singapore.

I've only brought a Star Wars Darth Vader Jumbo Chubby in CTMA Centre.
Had imagine I would find lots of Star Wars but I didn't.
But I did have a good time looking at all the other toys.

Godfather guarding!

This pair has left me standing by the window drooling...
Lifesize figure of R2D2 and C3PO! Wow...
Didn't ask for the price because I know it' not going to be in my budget.
Imagine the shipping cost too!

Wow...what a display!
Don't you think this is awesome?

I also visited the Animate and Sino Centre (信和中心).
For Animate (2nd storey), the entrance seemed a little difficult to find.
See the purpish signage on the bottom right hand side?
That's the entrance! Althought it looks something like entering someone's housing apartment!
Sino centre also has many toy shops but mostly on Japanese anime/collectibles.
No star wars was spotted when I was there.
So I would still prefer CTMA.

A book vending machine inside one of the MTR station.
Can't remember which MTR station I saw this.
It's the first time I see something like this.
This author is also very famous and I do like some of her books.

Location : Bute Street 弼街
MTR Station : Mong Kok

Another place near the famous - Goldfish market, is the Bute Street.
At Bute Street, just outside the MTR exit, there's also a toy shop.
Note the green signboard?
That shop also has many different types of toys.
I've brought some tin toys robots from the shop.
Boss is quite polite, but didn't have a namecard so I don't know the name or address of this shop.

Location : Tai Yuen Street (灣仔太源街)
MTR Station : Wan Chai

Tai Yuen Street is also known as Toys Street in Hong Kong.
If you look down the streets at first, you probably only see shops selling clothings, towels, fruits...etc.
But inside, it's a must to visit for toy lovers, walk further in and you'll find many toy stores.
Their prices are also very competitive and very much cheaper as compare to department stores.

Most toys stores hangs swimming bubble floats outside their stores.
If you just stand outside, you'll would have missed the goodies that inside...
Because outside mostly are those balloons, party poppers, ribbons for party...etc.
Walk deeper into the stores, you find all sorts of COOL toy collectibles.
Star Wars, Bleach, One Piece, Thomas and Friends, Ultraman, Hot Wheels, Gundam ...etc.
No wonder it's called the "Toy Streets!"
I brought some die-cast cars and Tin Toy robots.

The shopkeepers here are also very polite and friendly.
Highly recommend "Tai Yuen Street" to buy toys.
Most toys stores at night are jammed pack with people, inside and outside of the shops.
So it might take a little longer time to find something you're looking for.

These are the tin toys robots I've brought from Hong Kong.
I've not post these indiduval robots on my main blog - http://www.astrogalaxy.blogspot.com/ yet.
I'll create a link here later when it's done.

Post Additions on 10 December 2009 :
I've completed updating my Tin Toys posts, for viewing please click here!

Madame Tussauds in Hong Kong

2009-08-12T16:48:00.045+08:00

I visited Madame Tussauds in Hong Kong in late March 2009.
It was located in "The Peak".
I'm not going to introduce about this attraction because I'm in fact still rather annoyed by my experience there.
I would prefer the Madame Tussauds in London, which I visited many years back, it was wonderful.
Back to the Madame Tussauds in Hong Kong, the first thing that got me irritated was... I was standing at the entrance, in front view of the cashier, wanting to buy the Madame Tussauds book, the staff just continue talking to the other staff instead of asking if I needed any assistance. So I said flatly "Excuse me, I would like to get this book!" Then she finally stop chatting and got me the book.
Next was even worse and imagine, I haven't even actually step inside this place, it started to make my blood boils!
President Obama wax figure was outside, guarded by 1 photographer and 1 ticket staff.
They were there to help you take pictures with Obama and would afterwhich passed a photo ticket to you, so you can see if you'll like to buy a picture from them later on at the exit.
I didn't want to buy a photo later and wanted to use my own camera but the staff said I couldn't.
So ok nevermind, I then walked 3 meters away wanting to just photograph Obama only. The staff actually came over and stopped me from photographing.
This time, I'm really boiling!
Photograph from so far also not allowed, then when we are purchasing the admission ticket, the staff should let us know that Obama pictures is only allowed to be taken if you get a photo-ticket and BUY the photo at exit!!
I was with my friend and since we're out in a tour trying to enjoy ourself, I let the matter rest.
Didn't want to spolit my mood.
I just shot a GLARE over and stare at the rude staff and entered the attraction without much anticipation or excitment.
It wasn't crowded inside and I was able to take pictures of the wax figures there at ease.
Only some more popular ones, I would have to wait my turn.
Snap, Snap Snap... I took lots of photographs.
Then I came the a place called - Scream.
Upon entering, me and my friend was asked to stand inside a place like a horror, jail cell to have our pictures taken and get a photo ticket.
I declined to go into the cell to have my picture taken and was thus not allowed to enter - Scream!
See, all this was not known to us when getting our admission ticket.
I asked the staff why and he explained that he have to have something like a head count, how many photo = how many people enter scream!
But at least, he was polite and tried to explain unlike the rude girl outside.
If that's their company policy, I wouldn't want to make things difficult for him.
We just left without entering "SCREAM".
All this pretty much sums up my bad experience at the Madame Tussauds in Hong Kong.
They do have many great wax figures there to see that's worth the ticket price but the service level there would need a lot more hard work to make it a enjoyable place to visit.
It's my first and I would like to say should also my last time visiting this place.
So, I'll stop here for now and hope you all will like the photos I've taken.

Bruce Lee

Jackie Chan

Johnny Depp

Jay Chou

Angelina Jolie

Brad Pitt

Leo Ku

Aaron Kwok

Bae Yong Joon

Lesile Cheung

Princess Diana

Bill Clinton

George Bush

Saddam Hussein

Lee Kwan Yew

Shigeru Yoshida

Mahatma Gandhi

Adolf Hitler

Luciano Pavarotti

William Shakespeare

Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart

Pablo Picasso

Mao ZeDong

Jiang Zemin

Pierce Brosnan

Lin ChiLing

Andy Lau

David Beckham

Tiger Woods

Muhammad Ali

Jon Bon Jovi

Louis Koo

Tina Turner

Beatles

Michael Jackson

Teresa Teng

Charlene Choi

Miriam Yeung

Elvis Presley

The Peak and Tram

2009-05-15T11:54:00.011+08:00

The Peak Tram (山頂纜車)
Operating : 7am - 12 midnight daily
Frequency of Tram : Every 10 - 15 minutes
Sky Terrace : 10am - 11pm (Mon - Fri), 8am - 11pm (Sat, Sun & PH)
Tickets for Peak Tram (Return/Single) : Adult HK$33/HK$22, Child (age 3-11) & Senior Citzen (age above 65) HK$15/HK$8
Tickets for Peak Tram & Sky Terrace (Return/Single) : Adult HK$48/HK$37, Child (age 3-11) & Senior Citzen (age above 65) HK$23/HK$16

History of the Peak Tram
1881 - Planning of the tram system by Scotsman Alexander Findlay Smith.

1882 - Proposal was granted and the Hong Kong High Level Tramways Company was born.

May 1888 - Official opening by the Governor, Sir William Des Voeux.
It was a wooden tram's haulage system that was powered using coal fired steam boilers.
Seating capacity of 30 passengers and the carriage was indivded into three classes.
Having First class with the centre compartment.
Tickets at that time cost 30 cents, 20 cents and 10 cents (First class, Second class and thrid class).

1926 - The steam power system was replaced by an electrically powered haulage gear system. Seating capacity had increased to 52 passengers.

1959 - All metal tramcar were used and seating capacity incresed to 62 passengers.

1989 to Present - A fully enclosed, lightweight, all aluminum tramcar was used and seating capacity increased to 72 passenger. It cost a HK$60 million for upgrading using the microprocessor-control technology and new tramcars.
The seating capacity has now increased to 120 passengers.
Official opening on 20 September 1989 by Governor Sir David Wilson.

Tram Capacity - Maximum 120 passengers (95 seats, 25 standing)
Steepest part of the route is the crossover tracks on May road, which is 27 degrees to the horizontal.
At the Garden Road Peak Tram Lower Terminus, a Peak Tram Historical Gallery was opened in September 2007 and exhibited more than 200 memorabilla items.
The Gallery is free admission for Peak Tram passengers.

Peak Tram technical stuffs
Length of Track - 1,365 metres
Track Gradient - 4 degrees to 27 degrees
Lower Terminus - 28 meters above sea level
Upper Terminus - 396 metres above sea level
Speed - Maximum 6 metres per second

I brought a return ticket for the tram ride.
It's a interesting experience and enjoyed the ride.
Would highly recommend if you are visiting Hong kong to try this.

The Peak (太平山)
Mountain - Altitude of 552m

The view from the sky terrace at the Peak.
I was there in the evening, late March 2009.
It was very very misty and the air was very cold.
But I like it...would prefer to be cold than hot.
Sky Terrace is the highest viewing platform that offers a 360 degree view of Hong Kong.
I was up there for almost an hour and really enjoyed the scenery and cool air.
The Madame Tussaud's wax museum is also located at the Peak Tower,along with many other souvenir shops and restuarants.

Central Mid Levels Escalators

2009-04-14T21:03:00.019+08:00

Central Mid Levels Escalators (中環至半山自動扶梯)
It is the longest outdoor covered escalator system in the world.
Building Cost : HK$240 million
Official Opening : 15 October 1994
Type : 20 escalators
Size : 800 meters, climbs a total of 135 meters
Travel time : Approx. 20 minutes (one-way)
Operating time : 6.00am to Midnight.
Daily estimated Traffic : 55,000 people

Getting there : Take MTR to CENTRAL station - take exit C or D2.
Once out of the MTR station, you'll see road signs leading you to the escalators.

It links Des Western District in Central to Conduit Road in Mid Levels.

The escalators only runs one way each time.
The escalator runs UPHILL from 6.00am - 10.00am.
Runs DOWNHILL from 10.30am to midnight.

Hong Kong Central Police Station
This is a beautiful building structure which I saw while travelling the central mid level escalators.

Central Police Station consists of 7 blocks :
Stable Block - Built in 1925
Headquarters Block - Built in 1919
Block A, B, C and D - Built in 1910
Barrack Block - Built in 1864
The Central Police Station is a declared monument of Hong Kong.

Central Mid Levels escalators signboard!

Here, you can see different parts of the covered escalators.
Besides the escalators, there are many shops and resturants.

It's also the film location for :
Chung King Express (重慶森林) - Directed by Wong Kar Wai
Batman Dark Knight - Directed by Christopher Nolan

The first time I got to know about this Central Mid Level escalators was watching the "Chung King Express". It is one of my favourite Hong Kong movies.
I like the way Faye Wong portray the character in this movie and you'll see Faye Wong travelling on this escalators.

Central Mid Levels Escalator can lead you to the following streets:
Des Voeux Road Central (德輔道中)
Queen's Road Central (皇后大道中)
Stanley Street (士丹利街)
Wellington Street (威靈頓街)
Gage Street (結志街)
Lyndhurst Terrace (擺花街)
Hollywood Road (荷里活道)
Staunton Street (士丹頓街)
Elgin Street (伊利近街)
Caine Road (堅道)
Mosque Street (摩羅廟街)
Mosque Junction (摩羅廟交加街)
Robinson Road (羅便臣道)
Conduit Road (干德道)

I was there in the afternoon, it was the uphill route, as I've planned.
It's easier to go up by escalators and then climb down the stairs.
But in the end, I've decided not to climb down...heehee!
It was a nice experience to travel on the escalators.
A good way to see Hong Kong.
The shops, the houses, the people... it's a charming place.

Sungei Buloh Wetland Reserve

2009-03-05T14:22:00.059+08:00

Sungei Buloh Wetland Reserve
双溪布洛湿地保护区
Singapore first protected wetland.
In 1986 : A group of birdwatchers from Malayan Nature Society from Singapore branch wrote a proposal to the government for it's conservation.
1989 : Area of 87 hectares of wetland
(Designated as a nature park)
2002 : Area of 130 hectares of Sungei Buloh
(Officially gazetted as nature reserve and renamed as "Sungei Buloh Wetland Reserve)
2003 : Sungei Buloh became Singapore's first ASEAN Heritage Park.

I was at Sungei Buloh on the 30th January 2009.
The weather was good and I had a very enjoyable walk that day.
Upon arrival, I took the free map at the visitor counter and there are 3 different routes.
Route 1 which is approxmately 3km is about 1-2 hours walk.
Route 2 : Approximately 5km, 2-3 hours walk.
Route 3 : Approximately 7km, 4.5 hours walk.
I knew I would take much longer time as I was taking photographs, so I selected Route 1.
The next time, if I'm there early, I would like to try out the route 2 or 3.
I've been to Sungei Buloh a few times and I never forget the first time I was there, many years ago.
I brought my rabbit along for a stroll, not knowing that no pets are allowed, we both were not able to be admitted! LOL!

A unique letterbox outside the visitor centre.

Sungei Buloh Wetland Reserve Visitor Centre
Location : 301, Neo Tiew Crescent Singapore 718925
Opening Hours : 7.30am - 7.00pm (Mon - Sat)
7.00am - 7.00pm (Sunday and Public Holidays)
Admission : Free Entry except on Saturday, Sundays, PH and School Holidays (8.30am - 6pm).
S$1.00 per adult / S$0.50 per child or senior citizen
(Remember to get a free map here!)

A metal pledge on a big stone reads :
Sungei Buloh Nature Park
Officially opened by
Mr. Goh Chok Tong
Prime Minister
on
6 December 1993

This is the biggest Kingfisher I've seen so far.
He was perching on the fence just outside the vistor centre.
Some vistors got very excited and you see huge cameras started to setup to capture this cute bird.
There was a couple and the lady asked "Is that real? It's not moving..."
I turned over and told her "It's is a real bird, I saw it move a little earlier!"
They both seemed happy!
Then the guy said he used to live in kampong area when he was a kid but have never seen a kingfisher so big!

Walkway in the park

Signboard : Care for nature - No catching of birds and No Fishing!
Looking at this sign, I can't help thinking of Elmo! (My pet cockatiel)
Reminds me of Elmo having his wings trimmed at the pet shop.
The guy at the pet shop grab him so tight and it looks just like this picture!

The first squirrel I saw.
Snap, snap, snap... the squirrel must have find me a nuisance.

Can you spot the bird?

Razor/Pencil Fish
There are lots of fishes like this in the water.

A Bird Observation Hide

This squirrel is very cute.
He was so busy eating, he didn't know I was slowly getting nearer and nearer to him.
When I was only just 3 feet away, he decided to discard his lunch and ran off!

A simple screen for viewing.

Monitor Lizard
I used to see a few of them but my this trip, I only spotted this one.
This one is not very big.
Actually seem tame and friendly.
I took a few photographs and left quietly.
Then, I remembered my previous trip, I saw a very big one.
I was scared and luckily the Monitor Lizard also seemed scared by my present and ran off fast...

I wonder what is these wooden poles for?

Snails crawling up the tree

Mangrove

Flora Mangrove
Name : Rhizophora apiculata
Family : Rhizophoraceae
Common Name : Bakau Minyak

Description : A medium sized tree reaching 30 meters
tal with smooth to slightly cracked grey bark. The thick
leaf has a sharp pointed tip. The leaf stalk and stipule
(leaflike appendage to a leaf) are often tinged red in
colour. The cream coloured flower comes in paris and
without stalks. The brown fruit looks like an inverted pear
with persistent calyx (modified leaf forming a proctective
layer that would remain without falling off). The green
with purple hypocotyl is measured up to 33 cm long and
cylindrical in shape with a blunt knob at the end.

Uses : The wood is a source of timber, firewood,
charcoal, piles and fishing stakes. The branched stilt
roots are used for anchors weigh down by a stone.
Medicinally, the bark may be used
as an antidysenteric.

Aerie at Sungei Buloh (Route 1)
This aerie can be seen in many different parts in the park.
Height of tower is 18m
Width of deck is 9m
Number of steps to deck is 72 steps.

View from the main hide

Mudskipper / Goby

It took me about 3 hours plus to complete Route 1 and it was then 5 plus when I left Sungei Buloh. It was a nice visit this time except that I was feeling quite hungry.
The next time, I'll remember to bring something to eat, more water and a pair for binoculars.
Please click here to view the Kranji Dam and parks! It's a place very near to Sungei Buloh Wetland Reserve.

Kranji Dam and Parks

2009-02-28T13:27:00.029+08:00

Location : Singapore, Kranji Way
Kranji Tidal Gate

There are a total of four Kranji Tidal Gate Towers in this Kranji Dam.

Whenever I visit Sungei Buloh Wetland Reserve.
I would definetly stop by this place first for about an hour.
I find this a peaceful and beautiful place.
Not much has changed and I like it the way it is...unspolit.

The towers was there since my very first visit when I was just a child.
I didn't know what it was then and I didn't ask my parents either.
I just kept quiet and imagined it was some aeroplanes control tower or some towers that shoot down enemies...! LOL!
Now that I've become more sensible...heehee, these towers are actually tidal gates.
Kranji dam was built in 1976 to ensure no flooding at the Kranji freshwater reservoir during heavy downpours.
It will released excess water into the Johor Straits.

This is the Kranji Reservoir.
My favourite view!
I like standing there, just relaxing and enjoy the environment and air.
Enough to make it a good day!

Here's the roading leading in and out of the Sungei Buloh wetland reserve through Lim Chu Kang road.

Kranji Way Park
Along the Kranji tidal gates, you notice a park beside.
A nice place for a little stroll and picnics.
Quite often, you can see a ice-cream seller on motorbike outside the park.

A police post in Kranji park!
I'm not sure if it's still an operating one.
Took a peek inside, there was nobody.
Find it nice, have not seen it anywhere else, so I took a picture of it!

In the park, it provides a good views across the straits to Malaysia, JB.

Warning Sign in 4 different language :
Danger
Rapid Water Flow
Keep clear of the channel
when siren is sounded

Kranji Reservoir Fishing Ground 'B'

Ah... a fishing rule sign - it reads :

To maintain cleanliness and the quality of water in this reservoir, you
are reminded to use only fishing rods or lines with artificial baits.

For the safety and enjoyment of all visitors, we advise you :-
- to exercise due care and attention when casting your lines to avoid
casuing injuries to others.
- to help to keep the place clean by throwing all litters in the litter bins.
- not to use fly fishing tackles or fishing rods exceeding 2.7m (9ft).

Children under 12 years of age are to be accompanied at all times by
adults who shall be resonsible for their safety.

Activities that are disallowed are : -
- Using live baits for fishing.
- Using fishing nets, traps, spears or other fishing methods.
- Boating, swimming, bathing, washing or wading in the water.
- Camping, staking out, marking or reservation of places.
- Using of cooking stoves or setting open fire.

We wish to advise that PUB shall not be liable for any damage, loss,
injury or death incurred or sustained by any person in the designated fishing ground.

We wish you a pleasant day at out fishing ground.
Opening Hours : 7.00 am to 7.00 pm

This is fishing ground B.
I've missed the fishing A spot.
Will definetly go over there for my next visit.
I'll will be posting on Sungei Buloh Wetland Reserve in the next one or two weeks time!

Happy Lunar New Year

2009-01-24T21:12:00.004+08:00

Wishing all a Happy Lunar New Year 2009.
This year is the year of the OX.
I was at Chinatown just now and done up a post on my another blog.
Please click here if you'll like to visit.!

Lim Bo Seng (林谋盛) Memorial

2009-01-08T11:43:00.014+08:00

Lim Bo Seng Memorial erected in Singapore in 1954.
Located now at Esplande area.
This Pagoda was erected as a remembrance and tribute to the Singapore World War II Hero Lim Bo Seng.

Lim Bo Seng was born in 1909 at Nanan, Fujian, China.
His father, Lim Chee Gee was a wealthy Hokkien businessman.
Lim Bo Seng was his 11th child but the 1st son of the family.
He came to Singapore to study at age 16 in 1917.
In 1929, when his father passed away, he inherited the biscuits and bricks manufacturing business.
The company was known as Hock Ann & Co.
He married a Nonya woman Gan Choo Neo in the 1930.
They have 8 children, one of their daughter died at age of 2 after a fall.

Lim Bo Seng used the alias Tan Choon Lim to participate in Anti-Japanese activites.
In 1942, when Singapore's fall, he escaped to India.
He joined the Force 136 under the British resistance group.
He started to build up his strength and network.
But on 27 March 1944, he was betrayed by one of his members, Lai Teck and was thus he was caught by the Japanese Millitary.
He refused to give informations about the Force 136 and was tortured repeatedly.
He died in a prison.
Lim Bo Seng was posthumously rank as Major-General by the Chinese Nationalist Government.
His remains was reburied in MacRichie Reservoir.

"You must not grieve for me. You should take pride in my sacrifice and devote yourself to upbringing of the children. Tell them what happened to me and direct them to my footsteps."
- Extract from Lim Bo Seng's farewell letter to his wife

His wife, brought up all the seven children alone.
She died in 1979 at the age of 70 due to liver cancer.

This Pagoda is made of marble and have four bronze lions guarding around it.
It is 3.5m high.

Description of above photo :
Major General Lim Bo Seng
1909 - 1944
Major General Lim Bo Seng was born on 27th April,
1909 in Nan-An, Fukien, China. He came to Singapore
at the age of 16. After studying at Raffles
Institution and HongKong University, He inherited
his father's business in Malaya since 1937. He became
prominent in Anti-Japanese activities. When
Singapore fell in 1942, he went to Chunking and on
instructions from the Chinese government, he
joined the underground resistance section of 136
force under the supreme allied command
southeast asia. On 2nd November 1943, as commanding
officer of the Malayan Chinese Section, he landed
from a submarine at Bagan Datoh in Perak to join
the British and Chinese Officers already working
in Malaya with the Anti-Japanese forces. Later he
left the jungle to work in Ipoh. But he was
discovered and arrested by the Japanese Millitary
Police on 27th March 1944. He manfully endured
repeated tortures to which he ultimately
succumber on 29th June 1944, at the age of 35. He died
in the Batu Gajah Prison. A Martyr to the cause of
a liberated Malaya and to his loyalty to his
comrafes on 13th January 1946. He was buried with
fullmilitary honours in Singapore.
Erected by
The Lim Bo Seng Memorial Committee
29th June 1954

Merry Christmas 2008

2008-12-24T23:13:00.006+08:00

Greetings Everybody!
Have an enjoyable holiday.
Cheers!

Cavenagh Bridge

2008-11-28T15:50:00.026+08:00

Cavenagh Bridge (加文纳桥)
Location : Singapore River
Lenth : 79.25 metres
Width : 9.45 metres
Construction : 1868 - 1869
Designed : John Turnbull Thomson
Contractor : P&W Maclellan and Glasgow Engineers
Official opened date : 1870

Cavenagh Bridge is the oldest bridge in Singapore.
It is also the only suspension bridge.
It was originally planned to be named as Edinburgh Bridge to commemorate the first visit of the Duke of Edinburgh to Singapore.
But lastly, through the members of the Singapore Legislative Council, they decided to named it in honour of Major General William Orfeur Cavenagh - Governor of the Straits Settlements. The last appointed governor of Straits.
Cavenagh Bridge used to carries horses, rickshaws, ox carts in the past.
Now it is used as a pedestrian bridge.
The construction cost is of Straits $80,000 in 1869.
The Bridge was manufactured in Scotland.
Materials were been shipped to Singapore in knockdown form and assembled by convict labour.
Before the bridge was built, people could only cross the two districts by a detour over Elgin Bridge or by paying 1 duit (1/4 cent) for a boat ride.
In the late 1880s, Cavenagh Bridge was overcrowded and the Government hence built the Anderson Bridge.
Please click here for more informations about : Anderson Bridge

In 1987, a 5 month restoration works were done by the Public Works Department(PWD).
It cost 1.2 million and the bridge was reopended on 3 July 1987.

A 1910 police notice post which still stands at Cavenagh Bridge.
POLICE NOTICE
CAVENAGH BRIDGE
THE USE OF THIS
BRIDGE IS
PROHIBITED TO ANY
VEHICLE OF WHICH
THE LADEN WEIGHT
EXCEEDS 3 CWT. AND
TO ALL CATTLE AND HORSES
BY ORDER
CHIEF POLICE OFFICER.

Looking across from Cavenagh Bridge, in view is the Anderson Bridge.

Kids bronze sculpture leaping into water.

Cats sculpture - The Singapore River Cats
The Kucinta Cats (Love cats/ Singapura Cats) are one of the world's smallest breeds.

Picture of Cavenagh Bridge in the 1890.

Description of photo below :
Built in 1869 to link the Civic District on the North Bank with the Commercial District on the South Bank, this is the oldest bridge along the Singapore River in its original design.
It is also the first steel suspension bridge in Singapore. Before its construction, assces between the two districts was only possible by a detour over Elgin Bridge or by paying one cent for a boat ride.

Name after Colonel (later Major General) Orfeur Cavenagh, the Governor of the Straits Settlements (1859-1867), the bridge was designed by the Public Works Department.
It was manufactured by P&W MacLellan in Scotland and the parts were shipped here and assembled by the Indian convict labour.
According to the original design, the bridge was to be raised during high tide to facilitate the assage of barges.
However, this proved to be technically impossible and it became a fixed suspension bridge.

By the late 1800s, the bridge could not withstand the browing volume of vehicular traffic and Anderson Bridge was opened in 1910 to ease the flow.
Cavenagh Bridge thus became a pedestrian bridge. A police notice put up to regulate the use of the bridge, banning heavy vehicular traffic exceeding 3 cwt (hundred weight) or 152 kilogrammes, still stands today at either end of the bridge.

Cavenagh Bridge with Fullerton Hotel in the background

Anderson Bridge

2008-11-04T22:08:00.011+08:00

Anderson Bridge 安德逊桥
Location : Singapore River
Lenth : 70 metres
Width : 28 metres
Construction : 1908 - 1910
Contractor : Howarth Ershine Ltd (Superstructure), Westminster Construcion Co., Ltd(Bridge)
Official opened date : 12 March 1910

Anderson Bridge was built in 1910, named after Sir John Anderson (Governor of Straits Settlements) to help ceased the heavy traffic in Cavenagh Bridge.
After completion of bridge, vehicles, horse carts / ox carts were diverted from Cavenagh Bridge to Anderson Bridge.
Cavenagh Bridge was then converted to be used as a pedestrian bridge.

Scary Facts of Anderson Bridge :
Criminals heads were cut off and hung on Anderson Bridge during the Japanese Occupation of Singapore in 1942-1945.
It serves as a warning to citizens to discourage them from breaking the laws.

View of Anderson Bridge from Queen Elizabeth Walk.

Victoria Theatre and Concert Hall

2008-10-29T18:18:00.029+08:00

Victoria Theatre and Concert Hall
(维多利亚剧院及音乐会堂)
Address : 9 Empress Place, Singapore 179558

Building Completion date :
1862 - Town Hall
1905 - Victoria Memorial Hall
1906 - Clock Tower
1909 - Victoria Theatre

It was a nice weather Saturday afternoon and I've decided to take some pictures.
I started off from Raffles Place and walked my way to City Hall.
Along the way, I took pictures of buildings, bridges and national monuments.
I've studied history when I was in Secondary School but all was given back to the teacher...
Now I really need to go back to do more research about the country I'm living in.
I felt that I needed to know more about my own country!
There's always so much to learn about the past.
Old buildings were always in one of my interest list for photography.
I think they are all very beautiful with the age of time.
So here is my first post on Historical Places in Singapore.

In 1906, the 54-metre Clock Tower was added to the two buildings.
The Straits Trading Company donated the a clock and chimes.

Description on photo below :
1819 - 1919
This tablet to the memory of Sir Stamford Raffles.
To those foresight and genius Singapore owes its existence and prosperity was unveiled on February 6th 1919.
The 100th Anniversary of the foundation of the settlement.

Description on photo below : This statue erected on the Esplanade in the year 1887 was removed to its present site in the year 1919.

Description on photo below :
VICTORIA THEATRE & CONCERT HALL
Gazetted as a monument on 14 February 1992
Designed by J Bennett and built between 1856 - 1862,
it functioned as the Singapore Town Hall.
Its Memorial Hall and Tower, designed by RAJ Bidwell,
were added in 1905 and the clock and bells installed in 1906.
It was restored by 1970s as a concert hall.

Description on photo below :
CIVIC DISTRICT TRAIL
These two historic performance venues play a vital role in Singapore's cultural life.
The core of the Victoria Theatre (on the left) is the 1862 Town Hall.
Victoria Memorial Hall (on the right) was built as a grand gesture to the memory Queen Victoria in 1905.
Major renovations completed in 1909 included the harmonising of the facade of the older building with the new adjoining structure. The two buildings are linned by a 54-metre clock tower.

The Memorial Hall has many historic associations.
It was used as a hospital during the bombing of Singapore by the Japanese invading troops in 1941-42.
It was also the venue of Japanese war crime trials at the end of WWII in 1945.
During the 1950s, it was the venue for important political events including the inauguration of the People's Action Party on 21 November 1954.

The Hall was renovated in 1979 for the Singapore Symphony Orchestra and was renamed Victoria Concert Hall.
The Theatre was renovated in the mid-1950s and again in the 1990s.

A 1915 Singapore Mutiny Memorial Tablet in Victoria Hall.
(To the memory of those who were killed during the mutiny in Singapore in February 1915)
1915 Singapore Mutiny, also known as the Sepoy Mutiny, 1915 Indian Mutiny or Mutiny of the 5th Native Light Infantry.
On 15 February 1915, during the first world war, an indian army of 850 sepoys revolted, killing more than 40 British officers and local civilians. It lasted about seven days.
Trial on 23 February 1915 and lasted until 15 May 1915.
47 were executed, 64 were transported for life and 73 imprisoned between 7 to 20 years.
A public executions was at Outram Prison and was witnessed by about 15,000 people as reported by the Straits Times.

Switzerland - Mount Titlis

2008-09-20T13:31:00.026+08:00

Switzerland - Mount Titlis
A glacier paradise with ice and snow at 10,623 feet (3,238m) and highest viewpoint in Central Switzerland.
In the mountain of Urner Alps located in the canton of Obwalden in Switzerland.
A the entrance of Mount Titlis, March 1999.
The scenery and surroundings here was enough to take my breath away.

A photo I cut out from a brochure and pasted in my photo album.
Showing a Rotair.
We went up the mountains by three different cable cars.
Last one was the Rotair - first revolving cable car in the world.

First Adventure...Into an ICE CAVE!

We were so excited and my tour guide kept saying "Air is thin up there, if you feel breathless or unwell, please come down immediately..."
But on one seem to be hearing what the tour guide was saying.
Everyone was busy looking for their best spots to take photos.
Anyway, the air up there was the purest and best, in my point of view.
We all got crazy throwing snow all over the place.
A very fun place to be and of course the view is simply spectacular.

Although I was very happy to be there but a bad thing happened to me.
I was rolling all over on the snow... so happily that I forgotten about my videocamera in my bag.
It's was... ... crushed! The viewing screen broke!!!
That's the price for rolling on the snow...
Anyway, I did continued to use the videocam. It was still able to function with the normal recording.
Only thing is that I've to connect in to the TV at home for viewing.
Cannot view on the videocam anymore...

Who says at the top of the mountains, you'll feel lonely?
Look at these crowds...

Even though, I've accidently broke my videocam, I was still able to enjoy very much my day there.
No use crying over split milk. Can't be undone and I might as well enjoy my limited time there.
Mount Titlis is a place, I would like to visit again if I have a chance.
Then I would really try to learn how to ski...

Switzerland - Rheinfall

2008-09-19T23:26:00.016+08:00

We got near the Rheinfall at Switzerland in the very early morning.
About 7am and I'm not really fully awake yet even though I had a great helping at breakfast.
It is Europe's largest waterfall.
I can feel the power of the water, flowing and hitting the rocks.
A very magnificent sight to behold.

Rheinfall Data :
Approx. Age : 16,000 years
Width : 150m
Height : 23m
Depth : 13m
Average flow in summer: 600 m³/s
Average flow in winter: 250 m³/s
Lowest flow ever: 95 m³ (in 1921)
Highest flow ever: 1250 m³ (in 1965)

Austria - Innsbruck

2008-09-18T13:59:00.011+08:00

Innsbruck is the capital city of western Austria.
It's a very beautiful place located in the broad valley between high mountains.
A city with about 110.000 residents.
People were also friendly and I had my first MacDonald lunch in Austria.
Places were all very well kept and the building's were painted with vibrant colours.
This is also one of the places in Europe which I liked very much.

Golden Roof (Goldenes Dachl)
Built in 1500.
Decorated with 2657 fire-glided copper tiles for Maximilian I Roman Emperor.

An old district town of Innsbruck with the famous Golden Roof.
From here, one can also view the alps at the end.
It's too faint to see in here in these photo.
But when we were they, the location gave us a very spectacular view.

There was a Swarovski crystal shop location in the pinkish orange building.
I got my eyes set on a crystal miniature grand piano. The price were I think about 40% cheaper than what I have to pay for it in my own country. But I didn't buy it as I was afraid it might break during my travel. I was already been paranoid over the Michelangelo's david stone statue I've brought in PISA. It's about 2ft in height with a marble stand. I got in wrap up with all tons of tissue and a big towel...it did however finally arrive home in one piece!
Hehe, now I'm in a bit of regret for not buying that crystal piano... ... ...

Postcard Image of Leopold Fountain (Leopoldsbrunnen Fountain)
A statue of Archduke Leopold V (1619-1632) riding a horse.
I was there when it was already dark and my photos...oh well, was also dark in the background!
This is price of not reading the camera manual properly before travel...aha!

Liechtenstein

2008-09-15T13:43:00.010+08:00

Liechitenstein is located in the Upper Rhine valley of the European Alps.
A doubly landlocked alphine country bordered by Switzerland and Austria.
Doubly landlocked country means a landlocked country surrounded by other landlocked countries.
A person in such a country has to cross at least two borders to reach a coastline.
There are only two doubly landlocked countries in the world.
One is Liechtenstein in Central Europe and the other is Uzbekistan in Central Asia.
Liechitenstein is also the 6th smallest independent nation in the world by land area.
Their official language is German and currency used is Swiss Franc.

On my way to Lichtenstein, we stopped by at one of the highway checkpoint.
The town gives me a sense of peace and I wish I could live in places like these.
Away from the noisy city and bright lights...

Image captured while travelling in the coach.
Along the way, we passed by many beautiful houses like this.

I did not stop to stay overnight in this place.
It was very rush and we managed to only grab a few bars of chocolates and we were on our way again before the day turns dark.

Italy - Verona

2008-08-29T14:46:00.013+08:00

Verona is a city and provincial capital of Veneto in Italy.
Population of about 260,000 people.

Street of Verona - Piazza Erbe (Vegetable Square)
It was a raining day when I was there.
Most of the streets stalls were close.
I did manged to buy a packet of fresh purple grapes from a fruit cart.
We were all in a rush, so I didn't really have much time for sightseeing.
But overall, it was a nice place to visit.

Verona is the setting of William Shakespeare "Romeo and Juliet".
This place has since became a tourist attraction.
Postcard view of the Juliet's balcony and Juliet's tomb.

Casa di Giulietta (Juliet's House)
Romeo and Juliet may or may not have actually existed but it has attracted tourists and lovers from all over the world.
The story of Romeo & Juliet were repeated endless everyday to the curious tourists.
Juliet's house is very near to Piazza Erbe.
Build in the 13th century.
A massive restoration were made in 1920s including adding of the balcony.
It was once owned by the Dal Cappello or Capulet family.
No entrance fee to be in the Courtyard.
But there is a fee for entering Juliet's house - $3 euro.
Open everyday from 8.30am till 7.30pm except Monday (1.30pm - 7.30pm)
Romeo's house was not open to public previously but it has now been converted into a restaurant called "Osteria Dal Duca"

Statue of Juliet Capuleti
A bronze statue by sculptor Constantini.
It was donated by the Lion's Club to the city of Verona.
Myth : If you rub the right breast on this bronze Juilet statue, you will have good luck.

William Shakespeare's Romeo and Juliet quotes :
"What's in a name? That which we call a rose by any other name would smell as sweet". (Act II, Scene II).

"O Romeo, Romeo! wherefore art thou Romeo?". - (Act II, Scene II).

"Tempt not a desperate man". - (Act V, Scene III).

Image of a Postcard - The Arena

The Arena built with an elliptic design measuring 138,77 x 109,52 meters on the outside.
This Roman Arena dates back to the 1st century A.D. holding events and even wrestling matches.
Since 1913, the Arena has been used as a site for Opera festivals.
The Amphititheatre can hold up to 20,000 spectators.

Animals and Birds From Astro Galaxy

2008-06-03T15:38:00.008+08:00

I've posted places of interest for seeing animals, birds...etc in my Astro Galaxy blog.
It's better to create a link over there, than to copy my entire post over here.
Aha,I might just confused myself...

For Singapore Jurong Bird Park, please click here!
There is a total of 4 post on Jurong Bird Park
1) My day at Jurong Bird Park
2) Jurong Bird Park Show
3) Parrots and Lory
4) Penguins! Penguins! Penguins!

For Singapore Zoo, please click here
My visit this time was not very good as it was raining the entire day.
Many attractions were undergoing remakes. So, I didn't really enjoy my visit this time. I'll probabaly be visiting the zoo again in a few months time. Hopefully I can get better animals photo shots.

Italy - Venice

2008-05-17T13:33:00.017+08:00

(Above Image from a Travel Brochure)
I was told that some of the buildings I saw there as 1st storey was actually the 3rd of fourth storey of the buildings!!!
Because the 1st few storeys of the buildings were already been submerged into waters.
The people famous transport is of course the Gondola.
Upon arrival at Venice, everyone has to stop at Piazzale Roma.
The Piazzale is built in 1933.
A water transport would them bring is into the heart of Venice - Grand Canal.
Venice is made up of 118 islands, intersected by 160 canals and connected by 400 bridges.

RIALTO BRIDGE
This Rialto Bridge is the oldest one within the canal.
Suprising, it was originally made of wood but it collapsed in 1440.
Then it was rebuilt again...wood again!!!
Only in the 16th century it was then properly built by Antonio da Ponte.
He completed it in 1592.
Rialto is a single span bridge, 28 m in length and with a maximum height of 7.5 meters in the middle.
It has two rows of shophouses on it!

The view opposite the Rialto bridge - Grand Canal.
It's a very beautiful place.

We walked into the small alleys in the busy streets of Venice.
The distance between the houses apart were mostly builted very closely to each other, about a full arm length apart.

In the photo, you can see the "BRIDGE OF SIGHS"
The bridge was designed by Antonio Contini in a 17th century Baroque style.
Joins the Doges Palace to the Prigioni Nuove (New Prisons).
The name is derived from the fact that the prisoners were being taken across it before being sentenced by the judge.

BASILICA OF ST. MARK'S
The mortal remains of St. Mark was brought into Venice in 828.
Thus a church was built to house this precious relics.
Built between 11th and 15th century by many different people but the result is a harmonious blend.
Standing in the middle of PIAZZA SAN MARCO
An open space where pigeons fly around, people enjoying art works, relax...etc.
Can also buy seeds to feed the pigeons when I was there.
But recently I've heard that this practice is banned!

At the Side of Basilica of St. Mark's

Venice In High Water!
Sometimes San Marco will be flooded...
Image from a Postcard.

Streets of Venice.
People are able to take Gondolas from here.
If you are there, I would highly recommend you to try a Gondola ride.

DOGES' PALACE
A magnificent example of 14th century architecture.
It is a great museum containing works by many famous artists.

Venice... A place that I like very much beside Bavaria, Germany.
Surrounded with waters.
It a place where it is able to give one a romantic, exciting and yet also quiet and calm feelings...

Italy - Florence & Pisa Tower

2008-05-16T17:05:00.016+08:00

An Overview of the City of Florence up on the hills.
Florence is also known as "Cradle of the Renaissance" or "Athens of Italy"
We arrived in the morning hours still feeling rather sleepy.

A place with very good view of the city.

Piazzale Michelangelo
Here in the centre of the square is Michelangelo's David
One of the world's most reproduced statue.

Giotto's Belltower and Cathedral
This belltower started it's construction in 1334 by Giotto but was completed only after his death by Andrea Pisano and Francesco Talenti.
This tower is 85 metres tall.
The Cathedral construction started in 1289 and since many alterations have been added.

At the bell tower!
The streets around it is also quite busy, full of people walking around...

Piazza Della Signoria
This is a lively square and have many statues on display.
A very artistic place.

At the south side of the square that has three great arches of Loggia Della Signoria.
Built in 1380s by Benci Di Cione and Simone Talenti for public ceremonies and later became an open air sculpture museum.

Streets in Florence, Italy

The Leaning Tower of PISA
Construction begun in 1174 by Bonanno Pisano and completed only in 99 years later by Giovanni di Simone.
This monument is 55.863 meter high.
Has 8 floors and a slope of 4.500mt.

Pizza del Duomo
The "Square of Miracles" consist os the Cathedral, the Tower, the Baptistry and the Monument Cemetery. Built by different people over a time span of more than 300 years from the 11th to 14th century.

The Cathedral at Pisa Tower was built from 1063 by Buscheto.
Consecrated in 1118 by Pope Jealaus II and only finished in the late 18th century by Rainaldo.

Picture from a Postcard

Italy - Rome and The Vatican

2008-05-09T15:25:00.022+08:00

When I was in Italy in 1999 before year 2000.
Many of their historical buildings were under going some repairs and renovation works.
I was always interested in the history of Rome... anicent Rome!
Their medival times soliders and armors!
It's a pity I didn't take much pictures on the ancient ruins.
Especially the Roman Forum, I just managed to caught a glimpse of it as the tour bus passed!

Rome, named as Capital of the World or Eternal City
It is Italy's capital and largest city.
As the legend says, Rome was founded in 753 B.C.
A republic was declared in Rome in 509 B.B.

The COLOSSEUM (Colosseo)
Built in A.D. 72 by Vespasian and later in A.D. 80 by his son, Titus.
Once the Colosseum was able to seat 50,000 people.
A place where men combats with men or with the animals.
Its area is 188 x 156 meters and 57 meters tall.

I did not enter the Colosseum.
There were lots of people there.
Street vendors, Food carts, people dressing up as Roman soliders for photography...etc.
The place was rather lively.

ARCH OF CONSTANTINE
A Triumph Arches.
It was erected in honor of Constantine's for defeat of the pagan Maxentius (A.D. 306).
It is 21 metres tall with 25 meters long triple arches.

CASTEL SANT'ANGELO
Located just east of Vatican City. Built in 130 A.D. as a tomb for Hadrian Emperor.
Was used as a fortress in the middle ages
Now an Art Museum, display the history of Rome, their ancient weapons and armors.

VATICAN CITY
Vatican is an independent state from 8th century.
It is the world's smallest independent state of approx. half a square kilometer of territory.

ST. PETER'S (San Pietro)
Greatest Church build it 324 as a shrine for the mortal remains of St. Peter.
The Circus of Nero is where St. Peter was crucified.
This building took hundreds of years to complete.

Standing in the the middle of St. Peter's Square (Piazza San Pietro).
The doric-pillared colonnade reaches out surrounding the square was built in 1937.
It is 240 meter wide open. Composed of 284 pillars with 140 statues and martyrs.
The St. Peter's Square is able to hold 300,000 people!!!

The exteriors was going through extensive repairs to prepare for the 2000 year!
Luckily, the inside were still open to visitors.
I took many photos inside but many came out of focus and dark.
That's the cons of using film camera.
I should have brought along a camera stand.
It's a pity because the interior of the church and it's statues were all so grand and well maintain!
I especially like the ceilling works! Mostly it's all beautifully painted.

SPANISH STEPS
Designed & built in 1723 by Francesco de Sanctis.
Located in Piazza Di Spagna.
The steps got it's name from a Spanish Embassy that was built nearby in the 19th century.

See how it the steps were flooded by people there, no wonder it's one of the city's favourite spots!
When I was there, I was quite surprised to see Horse carriages there for hire.
The carriages were all very nicely decorated.
I think it romantic to sit in the horse carriage to go round these places near sunset...
There were many cafe opposite the Spanish Steps.
Even though there were lots of people sitting and eating on the steps, the entire place was very clean. No litter bugs!

TREVI FOUNTAIN
This enormous fountain occupies most of Piazza di Trevi, a charming place off Via Del Corso.
Built in 19 B.C. by Agrippa but was abandon.
In the 1400s, Pope Nicholas V requested to design it to have its waters be collected.
Decorative elements were added in the 18th century by Niccolo Salvi.
This fountain has drawn many tourists there to Make A Wish.
Not sure why but it seems like a custom to stand with your back facing the fountain, make a wish and then throw the coin backwards!!!

Germany - Neuschwanstein Castle

2008-05-08T13:41:00.033+08:00

NEUSCHWANSTEIN CASTLE
One day, I went passed a jigsaw puzzle shop. I saw a "Glow in the Dark" jigsaw puzzle. I was captivated by the look of the castle. Never seen anything this beautiful. Thus, I brought it, fixed it and framed the jigsaw up beside my bed. Every night, when lights are off, the castle would come to life! I wished I could travel through time. Time where I could visit the castle at it's glory, where the king was still alive! Where people are still living inside the castle. Sometimes, the silly me would imagined myself as the castle guard standing near the bridge. "A castle guard!" maybe you would ask? I don't know why too! It just kept coming into my mind.LOL!!!

A castle that I've dreamed of visiting for ten years before I finally was able to visit. The day was 23 March 1999... A dream come true!

A horse carriage. I took this carriage up to the castle. First time, so I quite excited about it! I sat at the front of the carriage, very near to the horses. Halfway up the hill, one of the horse started to shit!!! OMG!!! It's like right in front of my face and the smell is so strong. Everyone on the carriage started laughing!!!

The orange brick in front of the castle entrance.

Castle view at the entrance doorway.

Side view of the castle. It was quite misty up there but I like the coldness.

Up on the hill is the "Schloss Hohenschwangau". A castle rebuilt by King Maximilian II (Father of King Ludwig II). Ludwig II spent his childhood at this castle.

Image from a postcard. You can see from here that the Schloss Hohenschwangau is very near to Neuschwanstein Castle. I've written the castle name in Red.

A painting of King Ludwig II in 1865 by F. Piloty
King Ludwig II was born on 25 August 1845.
He is the King of Bavaria from 1864 - 1886.
In 1886, The King was found drowned in Lake Starnberg. How he died is still a mystery.

"Do not disturb the idyllic solitude of this romantic setting, whose picturesque is even greater in winter than in summer, by building factories and railroads. For there will come a time when many other people will yearn, as I do, for such a piece of land where they can find refuge, a place left unspoiled by modern culture and technology, greed and haste, as place far from the noise and turmoil, the soot and dust of the cities."
(King Ludwig II)

Image from a Postcard I brought from Neuschwanstein Castle. There's a swan logo stamp chop on the back of the card. The view around the castle is simply fantastically Beautiful!

Entrance Ticket into the Castle.The guided tour around the castle is great and informative.

The following three images are captured from my book, as photography is not allowed inside the castle!
This is the Throne Hall, one of the most impressive room in the Castle. Except that the throne is missing because when the King died, his family cancelled all uncompleted orders from contractors and the work on throne was never started!

The bedroom that King Ludwig II has a fondness.
It is designed in a late Gothic style.

At the village below the castle, there are also lots of stores selling souvenirs.
I like the mini wine bottle very much as it has the King picture printed on it!

These are some of the books at I brought at the castle or the village near the castle. Many of these have about the same informations. It contains lots of beautiful pictures of Neuschwanstein Castle and it's history.
I've also got some slides of the interior photos of the castle.
I'm not sure if they are still selling the Castle's photo slides now. Since it's the digital age now! I think slides are nice and when I projected it on the wall, I feel I'm at the castle again!

FACTS ON NEUSCHWANSTEIN CASTLE :
1868 - Preliminary draft of Neuschwanstein Castle by Count V. Pocci
1869 - A draft of the castle by Christian Jank found the King's approval
1869 - 5th September,cfoundation stone was laid for Neuschwanstein Castle!
1886 - When King Ludwig died, the castle was still under construction. The interior of the 3rd floor was not completed.

Construction of the castle requires enormous amount of materials.
465 tons of Salzburg
4550 tons of sandstone from Nuerting
400,000 bricks
600 tons of cement
50 tons of hard coal
2050 cubic meters of wooden scaffolding
The cost of building Neuschwanstein amounted to $6,180,047 marks even though the King intial plan on spending was 600,000 marks!!!

Singapore Toy Museums

2008-05-04T22:25:00.005+08:00

Singapore have a few toy Museums.
I've posted in on my main blog, so if you are interest, click on the link below

Museum of Toys

Museum of Shanghai Toys (MoST)

Enter into a World of Toys ...

I am wondering???

2008-04-17T16:17:00.004+08:00

Do you think travel, movies, music...etc mix well together?
Should this blog be solely on Travel & places only?
Or would it be better if I add posts like movies or music I like here?
Thinking of doing some writtings about my vinyl records.
I find it might be too messy if I post it in my toy collection main blog
http://astrogalaxy.blogspot.com

Please do leave me some feedbacks so I can make improvements for this blog!
Thanks!

St Andrew Cathedral

2008-03-24T15:37:00.025+08:00

ST ANDREW'S CATHEDRAL
11 St Andrew's Road,
Singapore 178959
Official Site : http://www.livingstreams.org.sg/

22 March 2008, Saturday, Cloudy Day.
I was out for some photo shooting and since I was near to Raffles City, I decided to visit this church.
This is my very first visit in this Church.
I've always like this church very much but has never enter it.
To my suprised, there are free guided tours around the church to explain about the history of the church.
Luckily, a tour just got started and I joined in the group.
Inside the church, many helpers were busy decorating the church with flowers.
The entire place is very well kept.

The Lectern : During worship services, bible passages are read from the Lectern. This Lectern is made in the shape of an eagle perched on a globe to represent God's word is to be proclaim to the world.

The East Windows & Lord's Table : In the east windows, the centre light is Sir Stamford Raffles dedicated to him in 1861, the north light is Sir John Crawford, Governor of Singapore (1823-1826) and the South Light is Maj, Gen. William Butterworth, Governor (1843-1855).

Christians would gather around the Lord's Table to eat the bread and drink the wine.

The lady in the black T-shirt and jeans was giving a guided tour of this church. She is very polite and all smiles. It was a pleasant visit with much knowledge gained about the church.

Brief History of St Andrew Cathedral (extracted from Church's Brochure)
1823 : Present site chosen for church by Sir Stamford Raffles
1834 : Foundation stone of 1st Anglican church in Singapore laid
1837 : First divine service conducted by the first chaplain, Revd Edmund White
1838 : St Andrew's was consecrated, but twice struck by lightning, declared unsafe and closed in 1852
1856 : Foundation stone of present building laid by Bishop of Calcutta
1862 : Present building consecrated
1870 : St Andrew's church became the Cathedral of the Diocese of Labuan and Sarawak
1909 : C.J. Ferguson-Davie became the first bishop of Singapore
1942 : Cathedral used as an emergency hospital before the fall of Singapore
1952 Completion of North Transept Extension
1973 : Cathedral gazetted as a National Monument
1983 : Completion of South Transept Extention
1989 : Construction of Baptistry
2005 : Completion of the Quiet Places Externsion : The Cathedral New Sanctuary and Chapel for all peoples

HongKong MissOut!

2008-03-20T12:35:00.006+08:00

Updated Post on 6 April 2009

Me & Hong Kong...
I had actually wanted to visit Hong Kong this March but cancelled it because there was some flu virus going on.
Funny thing about me is that everytime I want to visit Hong Kong, somehow or another, somehting would happen and I would never be able to travel there...

First time I wanted to visit HK, I ended up booking for a trip to Maldives.

2nd time, I booked for a 8 days travel to HongKong with a BIG local travel agency at the Suntec City travel fair. Packed my stuffs, 3 days before departure, I called the agency to get my tickets, they then only told me that they were unable to get me my hotel. Said it was fully booked. How irresponsible! It's my first and last time to deal with this agency!

3rd time, a friend recommended an agency. I went there, all was well. Got all the informations I need and the service was good. So, the next day, I brought my passport & money to book for the trip! The lady at the agency was off from work. Aruggghhh...no choice, I'll went back 2 days later. Waited outside the agency as the lady was serving some customers. I decided to walk around the building first but when I came back half an hour later, the agency was closed for the day... All the holiday's moods gone. I decided I didn't want to go anymore!

4th time, this was what I've mentioned at the top of my post... Bird flu! So didn't make it this March !!!

I wonder should I try one more time? Or should I simply just chose another country for a holiday!Aha... whatever it is, I just hope that the next time I plan to visit Hong Kong, all will be well & smooth...

Post Additions on 6 April 2009 :
I was finally able to visit Hong Kong last month, end of March for 5 days.
I'm still in the midst of sorting out my photographs before I could post any here.
This trip was decided in a rush, about 2 weeks before the departure.
I would say it was a good and fun trip overall.
The weather was rather misty and cold but no rain while I was there.
Except that I was sick from day 1 to the last day of the trip!
I vomitted most badly on the 2nd day.... yucks!
Even till now, I'm still feeling unwell due to gastric, giddy and a little of breathless feeling...
But on the bright side, I got to see the Panda bears and visit Disneyland.
And I finally make it there! LOL!

Malaysia - Melaka (Part 2)

2008-02-19T22:49:00.048+08:00

After breakfast, we drove to Stadthuys & Christ Church.
Many buildings are painted RED.
Click on the bottom photo for an enlarge view of the map.

Christ Church was built between 1741 and 1753. Orginally replacing a already shattered Portuguese Church. Bricks were shipped from Netherlands. Oldest church in Malaysia.

This is call "Red Square"

Many shops beside the church. Selling lots of interesting local stuffs. Most of which you can also find at the Jonker's walk night market.

This Tang Beng Swee Clock Tower was built in 1886.

Can also enter here to take a path up the hill to St Paul's Church.
The Church was built in 1521 by Portuguese.

Cultural Museum is a replica of sultanate palace. Entrance fee is RM$1.00.But if you wish to visit the Dutch graveyard only, you can pass through without paying.

The Dutch Grave Ground.
First used at in late 17th century.
5 Dutch and 33 british graves are sited here now.

Steps leading to Stadthuys.It is now a historical museum.
Stadthuys was built in 1660, one of the oldest Dutch buildings.
Entrance fee to Museum is RM$5.00.

This is one of the finest museums I've visited.
It's big and houses many historical items.
Very well exhibited.
Highly recommended if you've extra time when visiting Melaka.

I like above two pictures very much.
Big applause for the artist whom drew this.
Don't you find it's so real?What's real and what's drawn.
It's really take some time to figure it out.

Fruit stall at one of the R&R spot.
Our last stop over before reaching Singapore.

While travelling back, I recapped my 2 day trip to Melaka.
At first the only reason for visiting Melaka was wanting to eat Chicken Rice ball, visiting night market and see the dutch grave ground.
I didn't think there was alot to see.
But I was wrong.
We didn't even have time for shopping at some of their big shopping centres.
If you ask me if I would return to this place again.
My answer would be yes.
The people are polite.
Streets are very clean.
Food are good and cheap.
Roads are planted with tress and flowers.
I summarized my trip as "GOOD & FUN."

Melaka, Malaysia
Located South-Western Coast of Peninsular Malaysia facing the Straits of Melaka and between the states of Negeri Sembilan and Johor.
Occupy an area of 1,658 square kilometers, divided into 3 districts (Melaka Tengah, Alor Gajah & Jasin)
144km from Malaysia, Kuala Lumpur, 224km from Johor Bahru
Climate / Temperature : 21 - 33 dc
Time Zone : GMT/UTC + 08:00 hour
Currency : Ringgit (RM)
Country Telephone code / Area Code : 60 / 6
Electricity : 220-240V, 50 Hz, UK-style three-pin plugs are use.
Population: 713,000 (2005)
Ethnic Groups : Malay (60.9%), Chinese (26.8%), Indian (6.1%), Others (7.1%)
Languages : Malay, English, Mandarin

Short History of Melaka :
Melaka was previously known as Malacca.
Founded by Parameswara in 1396.
Given its strategic location straddling the Straits of Melaka, it thrived as a port-of-call and a centre of entrepot trade with ships and merchants from China, Japan, India, Arab and South Africa…
In 1511, it fell to the hands of the Portuguese, followed by the Dutch in 1641. In 1795, Melaka was given to British. It was returned to the Dutch in 1818 under the treaty of Vienna but was later exchanged by the Brisith for Bangkahulu, Sumatra. From 1826 onwards, the British East India Company along with Singapore and Penang governed it, under the Straits Settlement.
The Dutch left many fine buildings marking their heritage . The Stadthuys for example is today the oldest Dutch building in the Far East.

For Melaka Post Part 1, please click here!

Malaysia - Melaka (Part 1)

2008-02-18T16:46:00.056+08:00

Date : 16th & 17th February 2008

Went to Melaka with my parents and 2 friends.
My dad drove his little red Chevrolet Aveo.
I wished he had goten yellow, so I can stick the racing stripes and imagine it is the Transformer "BumbleBee"...
Driving time from Singapore to Melaka is approx. 2hour & 15 minutes at about 100km/h.
Distance from Malaysia-Johor Bahru to Melaka is 224km.
We used the Tuas 2nd link expressway.
It's is more expensive compared to the Woodlands checkpoint.
But the time saved from avoiding traffic jams were all well worth it.

Common sight of these types of tower in Malaysia.
About every half an hour on the expressway, there will be a rest & relax spot.
The restrooms were all very clean. Big and well ventilated.
Some of the R&R spot also have lots of food stalls to fill your stomach.
We only stopped once for about 20 mintues and proceeded with our journey.

The first time we did when we reached was to find a hotel.
We checked into a hotel named "Mimosa" at No. 108, Jalan Bunga Raya for RM$138/per room for a night.
Price includes a complimentary breakfast.
The room & bathroom is clean.
Except that I find the lights too dim and the pillow is a bit dirty and dusty.
There's nothing in the fridge.
Apart from the above, I would say it's a plesant stay.

It's dinnertime!!!
I voted to eat the famous chicken rice ball.
I just love chicken rice.
One of my relative said it's super nice and if you are checking out food on Melaka, you'll wouldn't miss this too. There's a lot of advertisments on this Famosa Chicken Rice Ball.
I personnally find the food ok but it is not that fantastic.
Maybe it's because there are so much advertisements and making the chicken rice looks superb???
The rice ball tastes of chicken and ginger. Nice!
Otah is also reccomend to go along with the meal.
Which is about all...

A typical chinese medication hall near my hotel.
The way they stacked their goods, you really have to admire them.
No support but looks secure enough.
The cups of tea outside their stalls are herbal tea.
Usually have cooling effects for the body.
Can can cure coughs or slight flu.
Tea tastes a bit bitter.
It's good to drink if you've eaten alot of heaty food or fried stuffs.
But before you drink, it is better to ask for the price and it's effects!

The white church is the photo is "St. Francis Xavier's Church."
View of Malacc River.
We continued to Night Market at Jonker Walk.

Sugar coated fresh fruit candies. Many different types of fruits on stick.
It's very sweet.
Take your pick and the auntie would coat the sugar for you.
As it's name sugguest, this probably orginates from Taiwan.
Mine consists of Prune, Green Grape, Tomato, Orange, Red Grape.

I'm now regretting not buying this Pikachu helmet.
Cost about RM$36.00.
Cute, is it ?

Long queeue for deserts.
Must be really nice.
I didn't try it...Arughh, should have!!!

Selling fried carrot cakes.
It's not a stall, table...etc.
He's selling on his motorbike.
All these stuff you see here was stacked up on his motorbike. Mobile Food!

Streets are buzzings with people.
These people are watching some performance on stage. This picture kinda gives the the 1980's feeling. Where a lot of people would gather to watch public perfomance especially on Hungry Ghost Festival.

You might have already noticed.
There are alot of laterns hanging. Red laterns!
Full of chinese new year celebrations moods.
I find this "Hakka" association building unique. I like the way they hung their laterns.

We walked about another 15 minutes from Jonker's Market for supper at this place.
Full of people.
It is call "Satay Celup"
Each stick cost RM$0.50.
Go to the refrigerator and choose the food you like.
If you can't finish in the end, you can return the uncook food.
The food is cheap and fresh.
Only drawback is that the pot is quite dirty.
They will top up satay sauce in the pot.
Not replacing a new one when other customers arrive,
Which means everyone is eating from the same pot at the same table!!!
Forget about the cleaniness, you can then enjoy the food.
It's very very nice.
Slghtly hot but also taste sweet.
Contains lots of crushed peanuts.

On our way back to the hotel, I saw this!
Time was about 12 midnight. The Ferris Wheel was still turning.
Lots of people were there, thought the opposite streets where I'm at, was empty.
Back to the hotel.
Showered, set alarm at 6am and with very full stomach, I fell asleep fast ...

For Melaka Part 2, please click here!

Singapore - MacRitchie Nature Reserve

2008-02-14T13:08:00.049+08:00

Date : 11 February 2008 , 11.30am-2.30pm, Windy Day

I was in a mood for some fat burning session so I went to this place.
Together with a water bottle, towel and camera, I'm off.
Come to think of it, haven't been to this place for about 15 years.
This year's chinese new year seems to pass very quickly.
I've sum up that I didn't eat a lot new year but my weight still increased.
Everytime my weight increases, I get depressed!
Drink water also grow fat...
Time for some exercise. Let's see if things starts cheering up!!!

These 2 monkey posts attracted my attention.
Not because of the S$500.00 fine or feeding of monkeys.
But because if there is such a sign, my chances of meeting monkeys greatly increased.
So this sign also means : THERE ARE MONKEYS HERE!!!
Yipes... I love monkeys. They are so cute!

Along the way, there are many other signs.
Trees signs, Safety signs, Warning signs...
I had once the urge to collect signs but gave up the idea.
It's expensive. heavy and takes up too much space.
There's one book I brought that shows a guy with his collection on signs.
Pretty impressive!
Oh, let's get back on the tracks here...

As I slowly strolled along the wooden walk.
Many things about life came to me.
Should I continue to walk on or should I just leave?
Fear came into the picture.
This place is so quiet plus I had just watch a horror movie last night.
I turned back and look. (photo above)
Stop for a while...
...
...
I decided to continue.

I do not know where the walk leads to or how long it's going to be...
Can't really think too much now as I am also very curious to know what's at the end.
Just like life.
Sometimes I feel like giving up but I am also very curious to know what will happened in the end.
Curiosity can also be a motivation!
Path ahead can be full of suprises too.
No one knows.

Just when I thought no one is here,
I heard some jogging noise.
Soon enough, somebody jogged by!
Then I came across a very unique tree.
The tree is growing horizontally.
The branches and leaves are beautiful and healthy.
Walkway is redesign to suit the growth of this tree.
People passed by bowed their heads lower to cross.

Stop to take a break.
Another surprise for me.
What a little metal sign with such Great wisdom.
Click on the picture below for a clearer view.

Sign to discourage people from releasing their fishes or turtles in the water.

This is one old sign, Standing at one corner.
It looks more like it's being left standing there to rot.
I wonder if any one is paying attention to it.

I turned back once again.
Should I continue ?
Now that I'm walking for about half an hour.
The place is no longer scary.
I begin to enjoy the windy weather, the trees, the fishes in the water...

I walked on ...

And on ...

Applause ! For myself...
Aha... I reached the end.
Or is this just the beginning ?
Now I have a choice to walk back the same way or choose a new return path (picture below)
5 minutes of procrastination, I took the jungle path.

A very protective parent.
The baby monkey loves to run around.
The mom or dad would grab the little tails preventing them going too far.
I spotted 8 adult monkeys and 3 little baby monkeys in all.

This monkey looks rather tired.
She rest for a few minutes and continue to walk with the rest of her members.

It took me about half an hour to let the monkeys get used to me hanging around them.
Bugging them with a handphone camera, clicking away their pictures.

Another creative sign.
It's eye catching and well designed.

This last photo completed my day trip today.
Lots of credit should be given to the park attendants.
They really did a great job keeping the park clean and not forgetting them placing so many signs all over the place.
A walk alone today
It's peaceful and calming.
Plus a little hungry, it's way past lunch time.
Happy because I got to see monkeys.
No matter whether we are happy or not, life goes on and on.
But can we go on if we are not happy?
I'll like to stop at the happiness when I see animals...

1000 Blog Links

2008-02-10T21:41:00.005+08:00

Big Bang World Record
Join in this big bang blog list. It's FREE.
Add yours too before all the space is taken up.
Just click on this FIRST link (Attitude, the Ultimate Power) to add your blog link.

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Thailand - Hat Yai 1996 (revisit)

2007-12-26T16:06:00.000+08:00

Date : 2nd to 5th March 1996
This time we went in a group of total 13 people.
My Grandmother, Fathers, Uncles, Neighbours & Friends...
We took a tour bus from Singapore to Thailand.
The journey is about 13 hours, if I remember correctly.
It was a night time departure and I slept all the way.
So.. to me the journey is Fast... hee hee.
After checking in, everyone went separates ways.
For me, I went immediately to find Fried Chicken wings. ... yummy.
One of the nights, while making phonecalls using the public phone, I spotted a baby elephant.
It was Sooooooooo Cute.
The elephant was gentle and seemed to me he is smiling.
We can buy water melons from the elephant owners to feed his pet.

Got this 2 big stuff toy home. Call them Dong Dong & Du Du.
Couldn't get them into my luggage.
Had to carry them along and it was quite embrassing when checking into immgration custom.
I brought alot of Thailand Coke Bottles & Can home too.
Used to collect back then, but I don't collect Coke anymore.
Still have some left in my house but mostly is glass bottle.
Can't keep the can ones, they'll burst after some years.

Thinking back now, I have not visit Hat Yai for about 11 year now.
The Buddha I am wearing now is from Hat Yai.
A Monk gave it to me and I like it very much.
I made a little donation to him when I left.

Thailand - Phuket

2007-12-23T22:48:00.000+08:00

Plus/Minus this date : 21 June 1994.
Think I was there for about 5 days.
I spent 1 hour everyday at the sea playing Jet Ski.
It was wonderful but expensive. I was still a student.
Almost all the momey I brought there was spent on this.
Aha..but it was worth it.
Not to mention I drank a LOT of seawater too.
Due to constant falling off the Jet Ski.
Additional reward is a bad sunburn because I did not bring any suntan lotion.
But it was really fun.

Did one time on parachuting.
It's not those sky diving type.
Rather safe, I would say.
You can see from the photo that there's some many ropes connecting to me !!
I was quite embarrassed as there were so many people setting up the parachute.
People at the beach were looking.
And I didn't know what to do, I just stood there like a log.
When all was done…
The parachute flew when the yatch power up and speed off.
Actually, one of the men did followed me up the sky.
He simply just hook up and sat on the ropes behind me.
He'll helped me to do the landing because I don't know how to land.
I was like …. Wah !!! Seems so easy to them.
It's an experience I won't forget.

About Phuket, Thailand
Located West coast of Southern Thailand in the Andaman Sea.
890km from Bangkok, Thailand
Thailand's largest Island at 550sq km
Climate / Temperature : 24 - 32 dc (November to March)
Time Zone : GMT/UTC + 07:00 hour
Currency : Thai baht
Country Telephone code / Area Code : 66-76
Electricity : 220-240V, 50 Hz. 220 volts, 50Hz. UK-style three-pin plugs are used.
Population: 313,955 (March 2007)
Ethnic Groups : Thai-Buddhists 71%, Malays 24% & others
Languages : Thai, English

Thailand - Hat Yai & Songkhla (Samila Beach)

2007-12-22T22:08:00.002+08:00

Date : 12th to 16th April 1993.
First time on an aeroplane.
I was very nervous but I managed to eat the food on plane.
Mostly importantly, we landed safely.
Travelling together with my uncle, his wife and one aunt.
The food was good, the locals are also quite friendly.
Not many could speak English (In 1993).
But some could speak Hokkien dialect.
When buying on streets, it is a must to slash prices.
Bird nests deserts priced reasonably.
My favourite would be the road side stall chicken wings.
Fried Chicken Wings… yummy Yummy…
Thailand cotton candy floss is also one of my favourites even till now.

We had alot of fun at the water splashing festival too.
It's held annually in April.
So if you go to Thailand during this time, do check it out.
Trust me, please remember to leave your electronic stuffs in the hotel.
You'll definetly be soaking wet from head to toes.
Some also used baby poweder to wipe all over your face & turn you into "Instant Geisha."
One open backed lorry even drove in with huge bins containing ICE COLD water !!!
When they start to splash, everyone was screaming & running.
They were so high up in the lorry, we were unable to splash water at them.
Smart, right?
But the locals are smart too. They started to climb up the lorry.
Results...everyone got WET & Happy. No one was miss out.

We purchase some firecrackers at the temple.
The sound was very loud.
I thought I was going to be deaf.
But it's worth trying.
We are not allowed to play with fire crackers in Singapore.

Usually, when we donatation in a Temple.
We will strike the bell once.
I don't know the reason why. Anyone knows ?
That's my aunt stiking the Temple Bells. Gong.....Gong......

The famous temple beside the railway station.
I like this temple very much.
It's very big and just outside the temple there are many hawkers selling Thai coconut, Drinks & Fruits.
I love the coconut. It's very sweet and the juice is cooling.
Now Thai coconut is also common in Singapore. We can buy it at supermarkets or funfairs.

Okay, there is one temple I've visited and left me a great impression.
Maybe it's because it was built in caves.
Climbing up was no easy task too.
The above photo show a statue over looking the hills.
My only lead is that this temple in built high up on a hill.
There is a lot of buddha statues in the caves.
If anyone knows the name of this temple, please let me know. Thank You.

Lots of monkeys at the foot of the Temple hills. I like Monkeys.
We were able to purchase bananas from the locals to feed those Monkeys.

Songkhla - Samila Beach
Another worth mentioning is the sightseeing trip to Songkhla beach.
Samila Beach with their major landmark of the Golden Mermaid statue.
It became a prominent symbol of Songkhla.
When I was there, the mermaid wasn't golden.
It had mostly turned dark in colour.
Probably due to the sea exposure and tourist touching it.
I remember eating very good seafood at Songkhla beach too.
If you are in Hat Yai, you might want to consider visiting this place.

About Hat Yai, Thailand
Hat Yai is the Biggest city of the Songkhla Province.
On 24 April 1977, area of Hat Yai was enlarged to 21km square.
Hat Yai was declared as a city in 1995.
Climate / Temperature : 25 - 32 dc
Time Zone : GMT/UTC + 07:00 hour
Currency : Thai baht
Country Telephone code / Area Code : 66-74
Electricity : 220-240V, 50 Hz. 220 volts, 50Hz. UK-style three-pin plugs are used.
Population: 313,955 (March 2007)
Ethnic Groups : Thai 75%, Chinese 14%, other 11%.
Languages : Thai, English

About Songkhla - Samila Beach, Thailand
Songkhla and Hat Yai is approx. 30km apart.
From Bangkok, Songkhla is 950km away.
Occupy an area of 7,393 square kilometers
Songkhla is divided into 16 districts : Muang, Hat Yai, Chana, Ranode, Bangklam, Namom, Khlong Hoykhong, Nathawee, Thepha, Sabayoi, Sadao, Rattaphoom, Singha Nakhon, Khuanniang, Rattaphum, and Krasaesin.
Climate / Temperature : 25 - 32 dc
Time Zone : GMT/UTC + 07:00 hour
Currency : Thai baht
Country Telephone code / Area Code :
Electricity : 220-240V, 50 Hz. 220 volts, 50Hz. UK-style three-pin plugs are used.
Population: Whole province is 1,159,672
Ethnic Groups : Thai 75%, Chinese 14%, other 11%
Languages : Thai, English

Malaysia - Cameron Highlands

2007-12-21T00:38:00.000+08:00

Date : 6 to 7 December 1989
This is all so blur now that I'll have to try to do some re-cap.
With my grandmother and some neighbours.
We went to Cameron Highlands and Melacca.
I can't remember how we went there, it's either by bus or car.
Monkeys left me a great impression.
There was plenty and they were really cute.
I was sitting on the staircase steps outside a cave??
They came rather close to me.
There's also plenty of tea plantations around.
Strawberries farms too. We were allowed to pluck them & pay accordingly to the weight.
I think I do have some photos somewhere...
...
...
...
Photos found and I've just posted this pictures on 22 Dec 2007.
It's a pity I don't have any on the strawberries farm.

This is a Temple but I don't know if it's in Malacca or Cameron.
I do like to hazing coldness there.

About Cameron Highlands, MALAYSIA :
Located 300 km from Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia.
Situated 1,500m above sea level and covering over 4,500 hectares.
Climate / Temperature : Cool mountain climate / 14 - 23 dc
Time Zone : GMT +8.
Currency : Malaysia Ringgit (RM)
Country Telephone code : 60
Electricity : 220-240V, 50 Hz. 220 volts, 50Hz. UK-style three-pin plugs are used.
Malaysia Population: 23,821,286 (July 2007)
Ethnic Groups : 50% Malay, 24% Chinese, 11% Indian & others
Languages : Malay, English, Mandarin, Tamil…

Malaysia - Genting

2007-11-28T17:14:00.000+08:00

Memories flooded back.
It was 1985, March 21.
That's the date printed on the photo. If the camera is set correctly.
I'm 9 years old.
My first trip oversea.
It was like a little family trip.
With my grandfather and cousins.
This trip is special to me because my grandfather was there.
He is someone I love and respected most in my life.
He passed away many years back and this is my first trip outside Singapore with him.
We travelled there by train.
I remembered me and my cousins found a lot of loose coins in an empty train seat, amounting to a few dollars.
It's been ages since I was there. The place is completely different now.
Very colourful and big hotel suituated there.
I like it because it's cold. I'm just like a Penguin.
Here are some photos I got on Genting Highlands.
I re-took these pictures using my digital camera as I still can't figure how to scan.
It's quicker this way, at least to me it is!

My Grandfather. He was a kind and humble man.

Paddling with all mighty strength to move the boat

We had our best of time riding those Bumper Cars. It was a big hit at that time.
We went for a few rounds but had to queue for a long time to get our turn.
Needless to say, we all went home with blue-blacks legs.

About Genting, MALAYSIA :
Located 55 km (34 miles) from Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia.
Situated 2,000m above sea level and covering over 4,500 hectares.
Climate / Temperature : Cool mountain climate / 17 - 24 dc
Time Zone : GMT +8.
Currency : Malaysia Ringgit (RM)
Country Telephone code : 60
Electricity : 220-240V, 50 Hz. 220 volts, 50Hz. UK-style three-pin plugs are used.
Malaysia Population: 23,821,286 (July 2007)
Ethnic Groups : 50% Malay, 24% Chinese, 11% Indian & others
Languages : Malay, English, Mandarin, Tamil…

Greetings Everyone

2007-11-27T14:05:00.002+08:00

I've decided today that I'll have another site about my travel trips.
Some photography of animals & underwater diving pictures too.
Just in case you don't know my original first baby, it's http://astrogalaxy.blogspot.com/
It's basically about my toys collectibles, Elvis, Pez and some of my ramblings & little chatter !

This site, I would say will be consider "UNDER CONSTRUCTION" for some time because I've not scan my travel pictures.
First, I got to learn how to use my printer cum scanner. Got to go look for the guidebook.
I'm not sure which country I should start with. Probably the earliest I can remember.
Just a minute, where did I leave the photos ????????
I'll be BACK !