Overview - Europe 2014

It was definitely my wildest dream of being able to visit Europe before I even hit 30 and the best part was that 80% of it was all expense paid. For those of you who didn't know, I landed a job as a junior credit specialist and I was sent to Warsaw, Poland, for an intensive 3 months training, with return air tickets to Warsaw and accommodation and transportation in the city all paid by the company. Not bad, right?

In that 3 months, besides exploring the city and the country itself, I managed to visit other European cities as well. Most of these trips were only weekend getaways and you rarely able to really see the place in such a short time. However, it served as an introductory course for me, to get me all excited with the prospect of coming back again and have another go with the continent itself.

Excluding all the Polish cities I've visited, I have been to Prague, Budapest, Paris, Brussels and Bruges. My favourite of them all has to be Prague. That city just wow-ed me, rendered me speechless, and the fact that I have 4 days to explore around made it much more memorable. Now that I'm already back in Malaysia, I really miss Europe and am much more determine to realize my second Europe adventure, schedule in 2 years time. Better start saving up money. 

I'll delve in more on where I've been to soon but in the meantime, enjoy these few photos of the three countries I've been to, excluding Czech Republic (click here to read about my take on Prague) and Poland. Poland deserves an entry on its on for overview.

Brussels and Bruges, Belgium

Bruges

This picturesque town is really popular with tourists. It was really crowded during our visit and the fact that it was summer didn't help much either. I was seriously turn off by the crowds but as the day went by and the people thinned out (Bruges is perfect for a day trip), I began to warm up with the town. I was especially smitten by the night views this charming town has to offer.

Brussels

Unfortunately for us, we didn't get to explore much of Brussels. This capital city served as a transit of sort to Bruges for us. However, even with the little things we got to see, I really loved it, especially the Grand Place. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is seriously amazing, a market square of its own level. I just want to spend my day drinking coffee and eating Belgian chocolate while admiring the beauty that is this market square. 

Budapest, Hungary

Majestic view of the city

Chain Bridge

Budapest was not in my list but since my colleagues were really showering the city with praises, I thought, why not join them along as well? That decision was the best I've made in that 3 months for Budapest is really beautiful and a delight. I readily admit that this city reminded me of Prague, what with the river and the many bridges. Yet, Budapest gave me a different feeling, a relaxed vibe, I would say. It is not hustling and bustling but more laidback, making us all want to come back again the next time but instead of just for a weekend, it will be a week long retreat. If you are looking for relaxation, Budapest is the answer.

Paris, France

Eiffel Tower

Notre Dame Cathedral

Another unexpected trip. I was not that keen on visiting Paris for I have this impression that the city is somewhat overrated. I came back from the trip both agreed and disagreed with that statement. That quick glimpse of the city reaffirmed that the best thing about the city is the Eiffel Tower. This majestic beauty towers over the city beautifully, giving it a signature touch to the city. Without the tower, I really don't know what is there to see. However, I strongly believe that 24 hours is not enough to really learn about the city and I am willing to go back and give another go for it to prove me wrong, that Paris has more to offer than just that landmark. Hopefully, my next visit will change my view.

TO BE CONTINUED

Medan - Overview

It seemed easy enough to ride a scooter. Even without knowing how to ride a motorcycle, I was confident enough that my years of cycling will compensate for it. And this will be my training ground for me if I plan to take up motorcycle license.

Riding these scooters

Indeed, it was easy enough. After riding it for the first time as a test run and seemingly alright with it, I continued to ride it. The journey was so relaxing and enjoyable, absorbing all the beautiful scenery Lake Toba has to offer. Peaceful paddy fields. Traditionally designed Batak houses. Serene lakeside. 

Some of the scenery along the way

When it was about time to return back the scooters, we made an U-turn, something I was not so skilled at. The road was not wide enough for a perfect turning, making me all the more nervous. Somehow, I got all panicky and instead of a careful reverse after hitting the side barrier, my grip on the throttle gotten tighter and instead of pulling the brake, I accelerated forwards and lost my balance, falling sideways.

Luckily, the injuries sustained were nothing too major. It was all mostly scratches on the hand and leg, both on my right side. Painful indeed, but no permanent damages. Scars, perhaps. The locals nearby who saw the horror quickly came to my help. So were my friends. After rinsing off the wounds by the roadside, we then headed back to return the scooters and cleaned off the wounds. 

The wound on the next day

All this in the first day itself. I do believe this Medan trip will definitely the one I won't forget.

TO BE CONTINUED

Taiwan - Overview

My mind is still muddling in Mandarin even after coming back from Taipei, Taiwan, for 2 days. I missed the mostly cooling weather the moment I landed in Malaysia (and missed the Malaysia's humid hot weather when it was raining and blowing with strong wind in Taipei).

Exploring their night markets is a must in Taiwan

My 6 days in Taipei has been nothing but fun and enjoyable. I made the right choice going during the winter season. Most of the days, it was chilly, just cold enough that a coat would do. Exploring the city in such a temperature makes walking the best method as you won't sweat.

View of Taipei from Taipei 101, the fourth tallest building in the world

What I'm most impressed about Taiwan is its friendly locals. They are very helpful and friendly and willing to share their cultures and histories to those who are willing to listen. I was given an impromptu history class on Monga district (now known as Wanhua district) which was very enlightening.

National Theatre Hall which looks like something from Korea

Another impressive feat is their transportation system. You have to salute them for the efficient railway system, punctual and comfortable even for a long journey ride. Plus, it is a cheap alternative to bus, which I find slightly more pricier especially if you want to go out of the city centre.

The old street of Jinguashi, my favourite place to just walk around and relax

It was definitely a wonderful experience and while I got to reconnect with my Taiwanese friend, I also gained a few new ones too. I believe that is the beauty of travelling. More stories will come out soon, I hope. In the mean times, just enjoy some of the photos.

Bamboo wishing sticks

Sky lanterns are so much beautiful to look at

*TO BE CONTINUED*

Sharing is caring. A word of advice and a piece of information.

Mandarin is the lingua franca of Taiwan. However, English is still widely understandable in city centre. It is advisable to get yourself an EasyCard to travel around as it speeds things up a lot. Each adult EasyCard costs TWD 500 (which is about RM 56.50) with TWD 400 reload and TWD 100 as deposits, refundable. 

Hulu Selangor - Overview (Media Trip 2013)

I just came back from a media familiarisation trip held from 27 to 29 November 2013 to Hulu Selangor organised my M-Mode Berhad, Santai Travel and Tourism Malaysia with supports from Majlis Daerah Hulu Selangor. This is my second adventure with the Sahabat Media Cuti-Cuti 1Malaysia and I have to say, it was simply wonderful. While the first was to Cherating, this time around, we went to explore the outskirt of Selangor, near the border to Perak.

If you are looking for natural retreat, Hulu Selangor is the place for you. Throughout these 3 days, we visited jungle and orchard, farm and insect world, garden city and city within a city. In short, we experienced all the best things the district has to offer. More will come for the trip but as the moment, just enjoy the photos.

The art of Jawi writing

Pasu batik, a local souvenir found in Felda Sungai Tengi

This is the view we got to see during our first night

Durian buffet all day long

Kuala Kubu Bharu which I was much fascinated

We ended the day at i-City, Shah Alam

*TO BE CONTINUED*

Cherating - Overview (Media Trip 2013)

Last week, I was one of the selected few lucky bloggers being invited for the Media Familiarization Trip 2013. The event was held in the Legend Resort, Cherating, in conjunction with the upcoming Visit Malaysia 2014. It was my first time attending such a gathering and I do hope it won't be my last for such a fun trip it was. Besides having the opportunity to visit Cherating and its surrounding attractions, I got to meet some new friends as well. Overall, an enjoyable adventure.

More to come. As of now, just enjoy the photos.

Warm reception by the Legend Resort Cherating staffs

Our room for the trip

Baby turtles! 

I just realized all of my baby turtles releasing photos are unusable! Damn my camera!

All set for the fireflies watch...

Early morning by the beach...

Mangrove River Cruise...

Batik school

Do you know how these keropok lekor (fish crackers) are made?

Something you can do while in the resort

Our dinner theme party

*TO BE CONTINUED*

I'm Back!

Wow, I have deserted my blog for more than 3 months already! I better start updating it or otherwise, people will begin to think that this blog is dead for good.

These past few months had been an exciting one for me, especially from end of July 2013 to early September 2013 as I have been on the move most of the time. My first destination was Pulau Perhentian. It was a spontaneous, last minute trip, as my last day in the company came a week earlier than expected. I took a bus from Putra bus terminal to Kuala Besut and from the small town, took a speedboat ride to the island. I spent about 3 days there doing nothing but lazed around the white sandy beach, went out into the sea to snorkel, and read a book or two. It was a truly simple life.

The beautiful beach of Perhentian Kecil

After that, my next stop was Vientiane, Laos. I went with a fellow blogger, Diana, and we spent a good one week exploring the capital city and its charming countrysides up north like Vang Vieng, Phosavonh and Luang Prabang. With Laos done, I have finished with the Southeast Asian countries, excluding Timor Leste.

Patoxai or the Victory Monument in Vientiane

Plain of Jars, a mysterious occurance in Phosavonh

I then crossed border to Thai side from Vientiane to Udon Thani, a city in northern Thailand only to take a train ride to Bangkok to meet up with my family. Somehow, it has become an annual thing with my family to go for an overseas trip even though after the disastrous Singapore trip. Luckily, this time in Bangkok, it fared much better.

When the week was over, my family flew back to Malaysia while I took a bus ride to Phuket. I spent roughly 3 days in the island, exploring its quaint old town as well as hopping around its surrounding islands. Even though it was supposed to be low season, the crowd there is still large and most of them are Chinese tourists. I followed Phuket with a quick stop in Hat Yai to catch a train back to Malaysia.

Rows of umbrellas in Patong Beach

Next, I continued with a 2 week stay in Sabah. I concentrated mostly in Sandakan and Kota Kinabalu. While Sandakan is more of a small town, it is much easier to navigate around its attractions as there are public buses and transportation to bring you around while in Kota Kinabalu, the famous sites are almost 2 hours away from city centre.

These two shots of old buildings, can you tell which is Luang Prabang and Phuket Old Town?

Well, at least for these past one month plus, I have a wonderful time, seeing new things and meeting new friends. I can't wait for another long-term vacation like this again. More about it soon.

*TO BE CONTINUED*

Yogyakarta - Overview

I just got back from Yogyakarta, Indonesia, a trip booked one year in advance, with my fellow university friends. It has been more than 2 years since the Cambodia trip and here we are again, this time, embarking on an adventure to the cultural city of Yogyakarta.

The beautiful Dieng Plateau, one of the highlights of the trip

Our flight was to Semarang with return flight from Yogyakarta. Such arrangement was due to minimizing air flight expenses. Initial itinerary includes Karimunjawa Island which I missed out during my first trip to Semarang but again, we have to give this beautiful island a miss caused of the ferry schedule which worked to our disadvantage.

Candi Arjuna in Dieng Plateau

Regardless, we managed to come out with an interesting schedule, with heritage being the main theme. We visited the famous candi around Central Java, starting with Arjuna Complex in Dieng Plateau, followed by the majestic monument of Borobudur Temple and ended with Prambanan Temple. Both Borobudur and Prambanan are UNESCO World Heritage Sites on its own and both are within close vicinity to the city.

Second visit to Borobudur still leave me breathless

Other than ancient temples, we also went to Kraton Yogyakarta, the Sultan of Yogyakarta’s palace complex. While it is vast, it is the main palace that is the most interesting, with traditional dances being performed everyday in the morning. The Sultan himself still live in the palace, therefore, only certain areas are allowed for visit.

Traditional dance performed in Kraton Yogyakarta

Besides historic monuments, natural wonder too is something worth exploring, the main one being the Mount Merapi. One of the most active volcanos in the world, you can either hike to the peak of the mountain for a majestic peek or some nearby mountains like Mount Merbabu to view at a safe distance. Or, maybe you can do it like us, taking a jeep up to the view point. Either way, it is safe to say you won’t regret it.

One of the regrets of the trip, not hiking Mount Merapi

More information on this trip will be slowly blogged after all my pending adventures.

*TO BE CONTINUED*

Philippines - Overview

Philippines. The first thing that comes to your mind would be its pristine white beaches. Or, perhaps you might associate it with its chaotic capital, Manila City. At least, that is where most people would go to for their first trips to the country.

Manila Central Post Office at the background

For me, my maiden trip to Philippines has nothing to do with the cityscape and the sun-kissed beaches. Out of my five day trip, I spent less than 6 hours in Manila and barely more than 2 hours on a beach and even that, the beach itself is not the main attraction.

Manila Cathedral, one of the three must see attractions in Intramuros

Manila served as a transit centre in this trip. I have every intention of visiting and exploring Intramuros, the walled city within the capital, and nothing else. Both days (first and last day itself) I was in the city, both times I spent it walking around the heritage ground of Intramuros only.

The Sinking Belltower of Laoag

Ilocos region is where I spent most of my time in. I based myself in Laoag City, the capital of Ilocos Norte, for two nights, visiting those towns scattered around the city like Bangui and Paoay for their unique attractions, the Bangui Windmills and Paoay Church respectively. It was very refreshing to travel in such manner, taking local buses and jeepneys to these quaint towns and cruising through the countryside which offers spectacular views.

The breath-taking scene of Bangui windmills

Another place I went to was the Vigan City. Capital of Ilocos Sur, the main appeal of this city is its well-preserved Spanish colonial houses. Fusion of both western and eastern elements, these mansions are best viewed along Calle Crisologo, widely deemed by the locals as the place to go to for the most well-preserved colonial era buildings in the country. And their sentiments are well supported.

You are being transported back to colonial era in Vigan City

My Philippines trip was indeed memorable, as with most of my adventures. I do believe if you can’t enjoy yourself during the trip, then, why go in the first place? It is nothing but a waste of money. However, something unpleasant will forever be associated to my Philippines holiday which I am still trying to get over it. Let’s bygones be bygones. No point crying over spilt milk.

*TO BE CONTINUED*

Hong Kong (香港) - Overview

Disneyland. That's my main reason for visiting Hong Kong this time around. I opted for Ocean Park (part 1 and part 2) on my first visit and now, it's time for Disneyland Hong Kong! Boy, can I just say what a magical adventure we had in the wonderland.

Me with Buzz Lightyear

I was giggly one minute, hyped up the next, watery eyed in another moment, bouncing up and down before getting all giggly again and I am a perfectly sane grown up, not some ADD kid. It says something about this magical world of Disneyland, a realm where you are reliving your childhood memories. Such a thrill seeing Mickey and his awesome gangs in person!

Disneyland Hong Kong grand firework display

Of course, Disneyland Hong Kong cannot be the only place we visited for the 4 days 3 nights trip. Customary landmark such as The Peak cannot be missed. While I may have been to the city before, it was the first time for the rest of the gang, so, The Peak has to be in it. Other than that, we went to Lamma Island as we took the iVenture Card promotion (a fantastic deal if you want to explore Hong Kong - more on that soon!). While just a short visit to the scenic outlying island, it was nonetheless memorable.

At The Peak

And how can shopping not part of the itinerary when Hong Kong is well known to be a shopping paradise? The last day itself was dedicated to splurging and suffice to say, we all came back with bags in hands. In short, it was a bang of a way to start the first trip of the year. I will write more about it once all the pending travel tales of mine are out.

*TO BE CONTINUED*