Monday, 24 December 2012
Melbourne Family Trip Oct 2012 - Afterword
It was heartwarming to see my mum spending quality time with her sisters and brother. Through the laughter and tears, they strengthened their bond and brought back fond memories of the trip. I guess when one started a family of your own; one would never have enough time for siblings or parents. However in our heart, we know that blood run thicker than water and that will tie us back to our roots. This makes me wonder, will I still maintain the great relationship I shared with my sister and brother as we age? But I already know the answer is: We must. It warms me up to know that someone in the world still cares about me, no matter what I become.
Melbourne Family Trip Oct 2012 - Day 6 & 7 Puffing Billy Train & Wine Tasting
Day 6 Puffing Billy Train & Wine Tasting
Shi Yee mentioned that she have not been to the Dandenongs which is only a half hour drive from her house. So today she joined our day tour to take the Puffing Billy Train which run through the blue Dandenongs valley range. The train ran on steamed engine and choo-chooed slowly along the old forests of tall trees and ferns. It had rained the night before and we passed through mist and plenty of dew drops on the leaves. Quite the magical feeling.
Lunch was at a quiet country-style town with lavenders by the road. Here we waited for 2 hours before our lunch was served. Sigh. This is the Australians for you; they like to relax and enjoy their lunch slowly. While us Asian must have things happening fast for us or we deemed it as bad service. As we waited, I do feel my group’s patience running thin. Luckily the food was good and that saved the day. See, good food is worth the wait.
Next on the itinerary was a visit to Acacia Ridge Winery at Yarra valley. The owners were a couple of retirees and they gave us a tour of their vineyard with great pride. The rows of vineyard were neatly arranged and since it was spring time, the grapes were just budding. We bought a few bottles of moscato and port wines here.
Day 7 Melbourne to Singapore
My aunts can be a little dramatic at time. After a round of tearful goodbyes with more hugging this time, Shi Yee announced she will be in Singapore to visit us in..*drum rolls* November (which is in a month time). All in we had much fun and all my relatives were appreciative for the chance to gather together. Back in Singapore, we usually never have much time for each other since we all have other commitments. Till next time then...
Shi Yee mentioned that she have not been to the Dandenongs which is only a half hour drive from her house. So today she joined our day tour to take the Puffing Billy Train which run through the blue Dandenongs valley range. The train ran on steamed engine and choo-chooed slowly along the old forests of tall trees and ferns. It had rained the night before and we passed through mist and plenty of dew drops on the leaves. Quite the magical feeling.
Lunch was at a quiet country-style town with lavenders by the road. Here we waited for 2 hours before our lunch was served. Sigh. This is the Australians for you; they like to relax and enjoy their lunch slowly. While us Asian must have things happening fast for us or we deemed it as bad service. As we waited, I do feel my group’s patience running thin. Luckily the food was good and that saved the day. See, good food is worth the wait.
Next on the itinerary was a visit to Acacia Ridge Winery at Yarra valley. The owners were a couple of retirees and they gave us a tour of their vineyard with great pride. The rows of vineyard were neatly arranged and since it was spring time, the grapes were just budding. We bought a few bottles of moscato and port wines here.
Day 7 Melbourne to Singapore
My aunts can be a little dramatic at time. After a round of tearful goodbyes with more hugging this time, Shi Yee announced she will be in Singapore to visit us in..*drum rolls* November (which is in a month time). All in we had much fun and all my relatives were appreciative for the chance to gather together. Back in Singapore, we usually never have much time for each other since we all have other commitments. Till next time then...
Sunday, 23 December 2012
Melbourne Family Trip Oct 2012 - Day 4 & 5 Family Gathering
Day 4 A visit to Shi Yee and Uncle Neo’s house
Shi Yee’s house is at the suburb so we ordered a maxi-cab to take us there today. Isn’t it lucky that the cab can take a maximum of 11 people? Woo hoo… what a wonderful coincidence! Shi Yee cried when we alighted from the cab. All the sisters (my aunts) hugged together and started tearing too. Such a touching reunion!
Shi Yee had been busy the whole day making lunch for us. We had fried rice, curry, chicken wing, red bean soup, almond jelly and many more. She is a great cook and we do miss her cooking. After that, it was R&R time for the youngsters as Uncle Neo hook up internet connection for our iphones and ipads. The seniors were busy updating and reminiscing their childhood memories. There were bountiful of laughter and tears. We left only in the evening. Shi Yee asked her brother and sisters to come visit her again. Her brother, my uncle who is always the joker, said that the next visit would be easier since he would just drop down from heaven. That was quickly greeted by a round of “Choy” from the rest. Haha.
Day 5 Queen Victoria Market and Casino again
This morning, Shi Yee and Uncle Neo came to city to join our city tour. We went to Victoria Market to shop for chocolates, cheese, smoked salmon, nougats, abalone macadamia nuts, navel oranges and golden kiwis. We ate the freshest Tasmanian coffin bay oysters with a squeeze of lemons. My advice is to get the oysters from the shop on the left nearest to the entrance from Elizabeth street. Their oysters were the fattest and creamiest and cost only a little more that the norm.
We had our lunch in Chinatown followed by a tour around the vicinity. Then it was back to you guess right… the casino. I guess we Chinese do like to gamble and that is why Singapore government implemented the entry levy for locals to enter our own casino. I wouldn’t imagine what would happen if the law was not imposed on them.
That night, Shi Yee bunk in with us at our apartments. Of course, the sisters and brother chatted till late night.
Shi Yee’s house is at the suburb so we ordered a maxi-cab to take us there today. Isn’t it lucky that the cab can take a maximum of 11 people? Woo hoo… what a wonderful coincidence! Shi Yee cried when we alighted from the cab. All the sisters (my aunts) hugged together and started tearing too. Such a touching reunion!
Shi Yee had been busy the whole day making lunch for us. We had fried rice, curry, chicken wing, red bean soup, almond jelly and many more. She is a great cook and we do miss her cooking. After that, it was R&R time for the youngsters as Uncle Neo hook up internet connection for our iphones and ipads. The seniors were busy updating and reminiscing their childhood memories. There were bountiful of laughter and tears. We left only in the evening. Shi Yee asked her brother and sisters to come visit her again. Her brother, my uncle who is always the joker, said that the next visit would be easier since he would just drop down from heaven. That was quickly greeted by a round of “Choy” from the rest. Haha.
Day 5 Queen Victoria Market and Casino again
This morning, Shi Yee and Uncle Neo came to city to join our city tour. We went to Victoria Market to shop for chocolates, cheese, smoked salmon, nougats, abalone macadamia nuts, navel oranges and golden kiwis. We ate the freshest Tasmanian coffin bay oysters with a squeeze of lemons. My advice is to get the oysters from the shop on the left nearest to the entrance from Elizabeth street. Their oysters were the fattest and creamiest and cost only a little more that the norm.
We had our lunch in Chinatown followed by a tour around the vicinity. Then it was back to you guess right… the casino. I guess we Chinese do like to gamble and that is why Singapore government implemented the entry levy for locals to enter our own casino. I wouldn’t imagine what would happen if the law was not imposed on them.
That night, Shi Yee bunk in with us at our apartments. Of course, the sisters and brother chatted till late night.
Saturday, 22 December 2012
Melbourne Family Trip Oct 2012 - Day 3 Phillip Island
Today it was off to see one of the smallest penguins on earth. Matthew took us to the Churchill Island Heritage Farm where we enjoyed some farm activities like sheep shearing and working dogs. I gave sheep shearing a miss since I don't particularly enjoy the sheep’s ;odour ; The farm is well kept and located in a small island surrounded by calm sea. I was dreaming of migrating again and this time as a farm owner…
We went to the Nobbies Centre later in the afternoon. This place had wooden boardwalks leading toward the ocean when you may find seals and seagulls at certain timing. When we were there, we found annoying seagulls, a lot of bird shits and no seals. We quickly retreated and Matthew took us to a quieter viewing platform with more magnificent view which was away from the birds and crowds.
After a great meal at a Chinese restaurant, it was off to see the highlight of the day. ; The Penguin Parade happens in the quietness and darkness of the night. People crowded together making tiny whispers in the coldness of the night as little fairy penguins wobbles in group along the lilted sand pathways to their nests. They are so cute and timid; I had to fight my impulse to grab and cuddle them. Nearby in their nests hidden by the tall grass and bushes, we heard baby penguins calling for their parents. So cute, cute, cute.
Waiting for the seagulls.
Sheeps have better life than me.
Picture from http://www.visitphillipisland.com
Adopt a penguin at http://www.penguinfoundation.org.au
We went to the Nobbies Centre later in the afternoon. This place had wooden boardwalks leading toward the ocean when you may find seals and seagulls at certain timing. When we were there, we found annoying seagulls, a lot of bird shits and no seals. We quickly retreated and Matthew took us to a quieter viewing platform with more magnificent view which was away from the birds and crowds.
After a great meal at a Chinese restaurant, it was off to see the highlight of the day. ; The Penguin Parade happens in the quietness and darkness of the night. People crowded together making tiny whispers in the coldness of the night as little fairy penguins wobbles in group along the lilted sand pathways to their nests. They are so cute and timid; I had to fight my impulse to grab and cuddle them. Nearby in their nests hidden by the tall grass and bushes, we heard baby penguins calling for their parents. So cute, cute, cute.
Waiting for the seagulls.
Sheeps have better life than me.
Picture from http://www.visitphillipisland.com
Adopt a penguin at http://www.penguinfoundation.org.au
Friday, 21 December 2012
Melbourne Family Trip Oct 2012 - Day 2 Great Ocean Road
Matthew from the tour agency arrived early to pick us up for our private tour to Great Ocean Road. He was a wonderful guy with great humor. Unfortunately he only speaks English and I soon realized a problem; most of my senior relatives do not understand English very well. I have booked all the tours in English as they were cheaper and I thought that among my siblings and I, we can alternate as translators. However this proved challenging since the seniors felt insecure when not knowing what was going on. And let me tell you, translating jokes was never my strong point. When they wouldn't let it go and insisted to understand every bit of the conversation, I was really to blow.
Luckily I have my brother with me and he was one patient and jovial guy. He did most of the translations with his misguided interpretation and put a lot of twists to them. Ended up the group were laughing more and Matthew had to ask if he was missing out on the fun. I caught up fast and was soon dishing up my version of facts plus a little imagination. They wouldn't know what they missed out anyway.
It was all uphill from then. Soon we reached the start of our great ocean drive. The view was fantastic. There are Australian native bushes and shrubs land on one side of the road and the coastal view of cliffs plunging down to white wash waves on the other side. We learned that the road is 243km long and it took around 3000 returned solders to build the road by hand. I will give the highest salute to these good old men for their vision and determination. As we drove, the view became ever more stunning. We visited the Twelve Apostles, London Bridge and stroll along the beaches. It was a long and tiring day but we had great fun.
The 4 of the 12 Apostles
Luckily I have my brother with me and he was one patient and jovial guy. He did most of the translations with his misguided interpretation and put a lot of twists to them. Ended up the group were laughing more and Matthew had to ask if he was missing out on the fun. I caught up fast and was soon dishing up my version of facts plus a little imagination. They wouldn't know what they missed out anyway.
It was all uphill from then. Soon we reached the start of our great ocean drive. The view was fantastic. There are Australian native bushes and shrubs land on one side of the road and the coastal view of cliffs plunging down to white wash waves on the other side. We learned that the road is 243km long and it took around 3000 returned solders to build the road by hand. I will give the highest salute to these good old men for their vision and determination. As we drove, the view became ever more stunning. We visited the Twelve Apostles, London Bridge and stroll along the beaches. It was a long and tiring day but we had great fun.
The 4 of the 12 Apostles
Thursday, 20 December 2012
Melbourne Family Trip Oct 2012 - Day 1
Planning a trip for the family was not easy, especially if it was for 11 persons consisting of aunts and uncles. This year, I planned an 8D7N trip to Melbourne for my family of five (parents, brother and sister) and 6 of my aunts and uncles from my mother side. Our objective was to visit my aunt (Shi Yee) and Uncle Neo who have migrated to Melbourne. There were a lot of requests from the group, one was to stay in chalet style, near the city, able to wake up late, less walking, more side seeing, less shopping, more free time for catching up..blah blah blah. With different requests plus a big age gap difference between the seniors and the younger members, going on a group tour was almost impossible. Therefore I customized an itinerary just for my group.
After 1 month of research, I finally got the draft plan up. I have chosen October since it was the middle of spring and weather will be cool with flowers abloom. After a grueling effort of finding perfect travel dates that can accommodate everyone’s schedule, we were finally able to book our tours and hotels. Thankfully I got in touch with a wonderful tour operator Melbourne Australia Tours who was able to plan private day tours for my group that were cheaper than market rate.
Day 1 Singapore to Melbourne
After 7hrs night flight with Jetstar, we arrived nice and early in the morning. This was my first time on Jetstar and I must say I am duly impressed. The flight is on time and smooth, plane was new and the leather seats are comfy.
For accommodation, I booked City Edge Apartments at Elizabeth. The seniors got to share two 2-bedrooms apartments while I got a 1-bedroom apartment with my sister and brother. The serviced apartments were big and clean with attached kitchenette for basic cooking. Queen Victoria market was only 5 mins walk away and the subway station with a good sized Coles supermarket was 10mins walk away. One of the requests was to have Asian food choices available and bingo! There were Chinese, Malaysian, Korean and Japanese eateries all around the block. Therefore this place was ideal for my family who like do grocery shopping, cook and eat.
Since we arrived early in the morning, we had to deposit our luggage with the reception first and check-in later after 2pm. My group was famished since we did not order food in the plane but I was disoriented and did not know where to hit first. Most restaurants were not open so early in Melbourne unlike Singapore where we can get food readily any time and any place. Shi Yee made a trip down the city to welcome us and introduced Hungry Jack as our breakfast choice. Located conveniently opposite the subway station, we got our brekkies and hot coffee. They were good and cheap!
After breakfast, we walked over to the tram station just outside Hungry Jack to catch the free City Tram. Maybe it was because they were confused by unfamiliar grounds or that they were too excited seeing each other, but they were not listening to my instructions and were busy chit-chatting among themselves. Some of them were trying to go up every tram that approached the stations and trying to influence the rest to follow. I shouted more than 4 times that it was the wrong tram and they should only listen to me but they don’t seem to register that. Omg! Patience was definitely draining away from me. Felt like I am a crazy guide leading a brunch of loud china tourists. Finally we hopped on the right tram which took us to the Parliament house. Shi Yee exclaimed that it was her first time here after living in this city for a decade so she became one of the tourists that day. Oh my!
After plenty a many of group photos with the same background, I finally convinced them to move along to the Parliament garden just beside the house. The small garden was covered with lawn grass with pretty pink and yellow flowers. We, Singaporeans were amazed by the pretty sight of nature but Shi Yee commented that the flowers are actually weeds and can be found everywhere during spring time. Great, now we became mountain tortoises. After another round of photo takings, we walked to the back of the garden and found the grand St Patrick’s Cathedral. They have a Japanese garden with plum trees and all kind of flowers that were abloom and set a nice backdrop against the cathedral itself. Of course more photos here. We were allowed to go into the Cathedral to take a look but I did not stay long inside. I don't know why but I do feel uncomfortable going into a church like a tourist when it should be a sacred place for the believers to interact with their God. Feels like I am violating the holiness of this place since I am not a Christian.
We crossed the road to reach the Fitzroy garden just opposite the Cathedral. It was one of my favorite places when I first visited Melbourne 15 years ago. This place gave a surreal feeling being so close to the CBD yet surrounded by all the greenery. We took a walk along the pathways lined with tall elm trees and soaked in the peacefulness and quietness among the busy city. Well, at least for me; my aunts were busy gossiping to one another as they walked and the uncles were starting to look bored and tired. Great, I have to think of something else to excite my group. I enticed the group with... Casino but in exchange they had to make a “short walk” past Flinders street and cross the bridge to reach the famous Crown Casino.
In a short while, our group was making progress again since the faster they walked, the longer they can stay in the Casino. Ha ha, thought I do make a good guide after all. Along the way, we passed the Federation square, visitor centre, St. Paul’s church and the iconic Flinders street station before crossing the Yarra river on the Queens bridge. Cameras were clicking along the way as we walked and I understand why. Melbourne was instead a beautiful city. It is clean and green as historical buildings blended in with the new city skyscrapers with the clear blue sky as background. Very pretty and sellable...giving me thoughts of migrating here.The weather was good too. It was cool, windy with a touch of sunshine. Shi Yee mentioned that they don't always get this weather; most of the time it was either too hot or cold. Guess we were very lucky since the weather was good throughout our stay.
After 1 month of research, I finally got the draft plan up. I have chosen October since it was the middle of spring and weather will be cool with flowers abloom. After a grueling effort of finding perfect travel dates that can accommodate everyone’s schedule, we were finally able to book our tours and hotels. Thankfully I got in touch with a wonderful tour operator Melbourne Australia Tours who was able to plan private day tours for my group that were cheaper than market rate.
Day 1 Singapore to Melbourne
After 7hrs night flight with Jetstar, we arrived nice and early in the morning. This was my first time on Jetstar and I must say I am duly impressed. The flight is on time and smooth, plane was new and the leather seats are comfy.
For accommodation, I booked City Edge Apartments at Elizabeth. The seniors got to share two 2-bedrooms apartments while I got a 1-bedroom apartment with my sister and brother. The serviced apartments were big and clean with attached kitchenette for basic cooking. Queen Victoria market was only 5 mins walk away and the subway station with a good sized Coles supermarket was 10mins walk away. One of the requests was to have Asian food choices available and bingo! There were Chinese, Malaysian, Korean and Japanese eateries all around the block. Therefore this place was ideal for my family who like do grocery shopping, cook and eat.
Since we arrived early in the morning, we had to deposit our luggage with the reception first and check-in later after 2pm. My group was famished since we did not order food in the plane but I was disoriented and did not know where to hit first. Most restaurants were not open so early in Melbourne unlike Singapore where we can get food readily any time and any place. Shi Yee made a trip down the city to welcome us and introduced Hungry Jack as our breakfast choice. Located conveniently opposite the subway station, we got our brekkies and hot coffee. They were good and cheap!
After breakfast, we walked over to the tram station just outside Hungry Jack to catch the free City Tram. Maybe it was because they were confused by unfamiliar grounds or that they were too excited seeing each other, but they were not listening to my instructions and were busy chit-chatting among themselves. Some of them were trying to go up every tram that approached the stations and trying to influence the rest to follow. I shouted more than 4 times that it was the wrong tram and they should only listen to me but they don’t seem to register that. Omg! Patience was definitely draining away from me. Felt like I am a crazy guide leading a brunch of loud china tourists. Finally we hopped on the right tram which took us to the Parliament house. Shi Yee exclaimed that it was her first time here after living in this city for a decade so she became one of the tourists that day. Oh my!
After plenty a many of group photos with the same background, I finally convinced them to move along to the Parliament garden just beside the house. The small garden was covered with lawn grass with pretty pink and yellow flowers. We, Singaporeans were amazed by the pretty sight of nature but Shi Yee commented that the flowers are actually weeds and can be found everywhere during spring time. Great, now we became mountain tortoises. After another round of photo takings, we walked to the back of the garden and found the grand St Patrick’s Cathedral. They have a Japanese garden with plum trees and all kind of flowers that were abloom and set a nice backdrop against the cathedral itself. Of course more photos here. We were allowed to go into the Cathedral to take a look but I did not stay long inside. I don't know why but I do feel uncomfortable going into a church like a tourist when it should be a sacred place for the believers to interact with their God. Feels like I am violating the holiness of this place since I am not a Christian.
We crossed the road to reach the Fitzroy garden just opposite the Cathedral. It was one of my favorite places when I first visited Melbourne 15 years ago. This place gave a surreal feeling being so close to the CBD yet surrounded by all the greenery. We took a walk along the pathways lined with tall elm trees and soaked in the peacefulness and quietness among the busy city. Well, at least for me; my aunts were busy gossiping to one another as they walked and the uncles were starting to look bored and tired. Great, I have to think of something else to excite my group. I enticed the group with... Casino but in exchange they had to make a “short walk” past Flinders street and cross the bridge to reach the famous Crown Casino.
In a short while, our group was making progress again since the faster they walked, the longer they can stay in the Casino. Ha ha, thought I do make a good guide after all. Along the way, we passed the Federation square, visitor centre, St. Paul’s church and the iconic Flinders street station before crossing the Yarra river on the Queens bridge. Cameras were clicking along the way as we walked and I understand why. Melbourne was instead a beautiful city. It is clean and green as historical buildings blended in with the new city skyscrapers with the clear blue sky as background. Very pretty and sellable...giving me thoughts of migrating here.The weather was good too. It was cool, windy with a touch of sunshine. Shi Yee mentioned that they don't always get this weather; most of the time it was either too hot or cold. Guess we were very lucky since the weather was good throughout our stay.
Wednesday, 19 December 2012
Taiwan Solo Trip May 2012
One of my favorite cities for travel would be Taipei. It’s easy to plan and since I speak Chinese, getting around is no problem at all. I still remember my first trip to Taipei with my sister a decade ago. We had so much fun and bonding time together. The most memorable trip would be going for hot spring in Beitou on a typhoon day. The spa assistant was amazed that we made it through the heavy rain and we got the whole place to ourselves. When we went down to Shilin for lunch, all the hawkers were equally bewildered to see 2 tourists wanting food on a typhoon day. But hey, they were selling food too!
This year, I decided to do a solo trip to Taiwan in May. Planning was pretty easy, no discussion needed with anyone, just pick and go. I redeemed my krisflyer miles and got discounted air tickets. May is a low season in Taiwan and the weather is cool, but it rained almost every day when I was there and the sky was always grey. The highlight of the trip was meeting up with my Taiwan colleague for a girls’ night out. We had fun catching up and going the same stuff we did when I visited her 4 years ago. Below was my itinerary to share with anyone interested.
Day 1: Singapore to Taipei
Checked in Amba Ximending (意舍), a new hotel that was bright, clean and friendly . Loved the free ginger shampoo and bath set. The daily breakfast was delicious with肉燥飯 and fresh soya milk which you can have in sweet or salty versions. Staffs were nice and helpful too.
Shopped around Ximending but end up snacking most of the time. I do miss Taiwan food so much. I can only stop my cravings after I had my Ah Zhong mee sua and Taoyuan beef noodles. Got some local snacks to bring back like Vigor Kobo 維格餅家 for sun cake, nougats, pineapple tart, Kong Kee 港記酥皇店 for mung bean cake, 3Q president cake, Emperor Qin Cake.
Was going Danshui in the evening but since it was raining the whole day, plan need to ne cancelled. So I went back to the hotel intending for early rest but end up channel surfing the whole night. There were just too many channels on Taiwan TV and I went into a trance mode trying to watch as many programs at 1 go.
Day 2: Taipei
Woke up late and went shopping around Zhongxiao East Road. Everything was just too expensive here and I only manage to get 2 tops and some shoes.
Met my Taiwan colleague for dinner at Keelung Night market in the evening. We ate营养三文治, which was not all healthy but really delicious, one bite sausages with raw garlic, oyster omelette, pork rib soup with minced pork rice滷肉飯, glutinous rice ball soup桂花酒酿汤圆 and beancurd dessert with lemon juice at 三兄弟豆花. Yum x 3! Then we drove up Keelung hill for some night scenery and followed by Yonghe for supper on油條, sao bing and豆漿. What a sinfully fat day!
Day 3: Taipei
Woke up late again and went shopping at Zhongxiao Dunhua and got lots of pump shoes. Tried Du Hsiao Yueh 度小月 which is famous for Dan Zai Mian but I find it so~so only.
Went for a afternoon tea at Taipei 101. It was really nice having tea alone, people watching and letting time slip by. I felt totally rejuvenated after that. Got a tote bag from Tods and a pink shoulder bag from Samantha Thavasa as a reward for myself for being such a hardworking independent lady. Cost me a bomb but really make my day.
Took the train to Shilin Night Market for my dose of Hao Da Da Ji Pai and Prince Cheese potatoes. It was raining again and the outdoor area was full of poking umbrellas and too dangerous for me. Checked out the new underground night market but didn’t like eating there. It was too cramped and the smell of thousand different food all mix to one was overwhelming.
Day 4: Taipei to Chiayi
Woke up early to catch the HSR train to Chiayi from Taipei Main Station. This was my first time on HSR and the whole system is about efficiency. Station was clean, train was clean and staffs were informative. I arrived early in the station and bought a bento set to eat in the train. That is what I like about Taiwan; you can eat practically everywhere, on the bus and in the train. The trip took only 1.5hr, after which I took a minibus right outside the Chiayi HSR station up Alishan.
The bus journey took 3hrs (longer than the train) but it was all scenic views of mountain and green. The rain have let down so the mountains are cover with passing clouds as we climb higher giving the whole place a serene feeling.
I chose Alishan House阿里山賓館 for my 1 night stay. Based on the reviews on tripadvisor, it was supposed to be the most luxurious hotel on the mountain. However I arrived into a grime old hotel room which had no air condition and with rusty window sills that were unable to open. I was left with no air circulation and I could not sleep the whole night.
I spent the day mostly out of the hotel room. Took the walking trails along the wooden platforms into the Alishan forest. Since it was a low season, I had the whole place almost to myself. It was just after a rain, the whole forest was green and mystically peaceful with the occasional clouds that drift pass and sheds of soft sunlight shining through the tree canopy. Magical is the word and I felt really happy breathing and living in this wonderful world call earth. I felt like a forest elf under the protection of these tall ancient cypress trees which were majestic looking and each had a story to share with me.
Alishan - walk in the cloud
Day 5: Chiayi to Taichung
I got up at 4am to catch the sunrise over Jhushan祝山. It was freezing cold outside but my room was hot and stuffy, neither which I enjoyed. One thing I liked about this hotel though was that they provide free shuttles between tourist spots.
The special train up 祝山 was crowded by early risers like me, all ready to get a glimpse of the new born sun. Scene at the top of the mountain can be describe as chaotic yet spectacular. Chaotic due to the chinese tourists and their guides yakking away. Really, what was there to explain about a sunrise? You should just enjoy it with your eyes, feel it in your heart and get attune with nature. But no, yak yak yak away the peacefulness around. Then there were hawkers selling gloves and sunglass at the top of their voice. I would like to buy some ear plugs here please…
The sunrise itself was spectacular. The soft raising light out of dark mountainous landscape, slowly clearing away thick fogs. My advice would be to arrive early so that you could see the transformation from total darkness to a new dawn (but you must be able to withstand the cold). Due to an eclipse on the day itself, there is a black spot in the rising sun. I am lucky to see such phenomenon and quickly make a wish for happiness and health for my family.
Train ride up Zhushan for the sunrise
After the sunrise, I took to the forest walking trails again but this time round, it was not very enjoyable. The rain had stopped and the sun had dried up the platforms. So all the tourists and guides came out and yak yak yak around the forest.
My plan was to take the員林客運 Yuanlin bus from Alishan direct to Sun Moon lake in the afternoon. The route was supposed to be very scenic and will be passing through another mountain. But guess what? Due to heavy rains in the past few days which created soil erosion leaving a stretch of road closed to traffic. So no bus for me then but the old way back by bus and HSR to Taichung. From Taichung HSR station, I took a bus to Sun Moon Lake. It took less than 1.5hrs.
I chose SPA Home Sun Moon Lake Luxury Lakeside Hotel for my 1 night stay here. The hotel was perfectly located by the lake; just a short walk from the bus which stopped opposite the visitor centre. The room I had was facing directly to the lake and you can take a dip in the bath tub while enjoying the lake view from the large window beside. I was so tired since I did not sleep well the night before. Felled back to bed early and thank god the room was clean and bed was comfy.
Day 6: Taichung to Taipei
Woke up early to take a stroll on the raised wooden platforms along the lake. The lake was wonderfully green with a blue backdrop of mountain range on a clear white sky. Along the way, I heard birds calling and fishes swimming in the water. I think I had just turned into Pocahontas here.
After a long walk, I arrived back to the hotel for breakfast. The breakfast was yummy and I would highly recommend this hotel to anyone. In the afternoon, I took the HSR back to Taipei to get the rest of my luggage with my戰利品 to the airport. It was sad leaving but I had fun and feel totally re-energized. So it was back to hard work and planning for my next trip. Stay tuned…
Total spent.................................................SGD1850
This year, I decided to do a solo trip to Taiwan in May. Planning was pretty easy, no discussion needed with anyone, just pick and go. I redeemed my krisflyer miles and got discounted air tickets. May is a low season in Taiwan and the weather is cool, but it rained almost every day when I was there and the sky was always grey. The highlight of the trip was meeting up with my Taiwan colleague for a girls’ night out. We had fun catching up and going the same stuff we did when I visited her 4 years ago. Below was my itinerary to share with anyone interested.
Day 1: Singapore to Taipei
Checked in Amba Ximending (意舍), a new hotel that was bright, clean and friendly . Loved the free ginger shampoo and bath set. The daily breakfast was delicious with肉燥飯 and fresh soya milk which you can have in sweet or salty versions. Staffs were nice and helpful too.
Shopped around Ximending but end up snacking most of the time. I do miss Taiwan food so much. I can only stop my cravings after I had my Ah Zhong mee sua and Taoyuan beef noodles. Got some local snacks to bring back like Vigor Kobo 維格餅家 for sun cake, nougats, pineapple tart, Kong Kee 港記酥皇店 for mung bean cake, 3Q president cake, Emperor Qin Cake.
Was going Danshui in the evening but since it was raining the whole day, plan need to ne cancelled. So I went back to the hotel intending for early rest but end up channel surfing the whole night. There were just too many channels on Taiwan TV and I went into a trance mode trying to watch as many programs at 1 go.
Day 2: Taipei
Woke up late and went shopping around Zhongxiao East Road. Everything was just too expensive here and I only manage to get 2 tops and some shoes.
Met my Taiwan colleague for dinner at Keelung Night market in the evening. We ate营养三文治, which was not all healthy but really delicious, one bite sausages with raw garlic, oyster omelette, pork rib soup with minced pork rice滷肉飯, glutinous rice ball soup桂花酒酿汤圆 and beancurd dessert with lemon juice at 三兄弟豆花. Yum x 3! Then we drove up Keelung hill for some night scenery and followed by Yonghe for supper on油條, sao bing and豆漿. What a sinfully fat day!
Day 3: Taipei
Woke up late again and went shopping at Zhongxiao Dunhua and got lots of pump shoes. Tried Du Hsiao Yueh 度小月 which is famous for Dan Zai Mian but I find it so~so only.
Went for a afternoon tea at Taipei 101. It was really nice having tea alone, people watching and letting time slip by. I felt totally rejuvenated after that. Got a tote bag from Tods and a pink shoulder bag from Samantha Thavasa as a reward for myself for being such a hardworking independent lady. Cost me a bomb but really make my day.
Took the train to Shilin Night Market for my dose of Hao Da Da Ji Pai and Prince Cheese potatoes. It was raining again and the outdoor area was full of poking umbrellas and too dangerous for me. Checked out the new underground night market but didn’t like eating there. It was too cramped and the smell of thousand different food all mix to one was overwhelming.
Day 4: Taipei to Chiayi
Woke up early to catch the HSR train to Chiayi from Taipei Main Station. This was my first time on HSR and the whole system is about efficiency. Station was clean, train was clean and staffs were informative. I arrived early in the station and bought a bento set to eat in the train. That is what I like about Taiwan; you can eat practically everywhere, on the bus and in the train. The trip took only 1.5hr, after which I took a minibus right outside the Chiayi HSR station up Alishan.
The bus journey took 3hrs (longer than the train) but it was all scenic views of mountain and green. The rain have let down so the mountains are cover with passing clouds as we climb higher giving the whole place a serene feeling.
I chose Alishan House阿里山賓館 for my 1 night stay. Based on the reviews on tripadvisor, it was supposed to be the most luxurious hotel on the mountain. However I arrived into a grime old hotel room which had no air condition and with rusty window sills that were unable to open. I was left with no air circulation and I could not sleep the whole night.
I spent the day mostly out of the hotel room. Took the walking trails along the wooden platforms into the Alishan forest. Since it was a low season, I had the whole place almost to myself. It was just after a rain, the whole forest was green and mystically peaceful with the occasional clouds that drift pass and sheds of soft sunlight shining through the tree canopy. Magical is the word and I felt really happy breathing and living in this wonderful world call earth. I felt like a forest elf under the protection of these tall ancient cypress trees which were majestic looking and each had a story to share with me.
Alishan - walk in the cloud
Day 5: Chiayi to Taichung
I got up at 4am to catch the sunrise over Jhushan祝山. It was freezing cold outside but my room was hot and stuffy, neither which I enjoyed. One thing I liked about this hotel though was that they provide free shuttles between tourist spots.
The special train up 祝山 was crowded by early risers like me, all ready to get a glimpse of the new born sun. Scene at the top of the mountain can be describe as chaotic yet spectacular. Chaotic due to the chinese tourists and their guides yakking away. Really, what was there to explain about a sunrise? You should just enjoy it with your eyes, feel it in your heart and get attune with nature. But no, yak yak yak away the peacefulness around. Then there were hawkers selling gloves and sunglass at the top of their voice. I would like to buy some ear plugs here please…
The sunrise itself was spectacular. The soft raising light out of dark mountainous landscape, slowly clearing away thick fogs. My advice would be to arrive early so that you could see the transformation from total darkness to a new dawn (but you must be able to withstand the cold). Due to an eclipse on the day itself, there is a black spot in the rising sun. I am lucky to see such phenomenon and quickly make a wish for happiness and health for my family.
Train ride up Zhushan for the sunrise
After the sunrise, I took to the forest walking trails again but this time round, it was not very enjoyable. The rain had stopped and the sun had dried up the platforms. So all the tourists and guides came out and yak yak yak around the forest.
My plan was to take the員林客運 Yuanlin bus from Alishan direct to Sun Moon lake in the afternoon. The route was supposed to be very scenic and will be passing through another mountain. But guess what? Due to heavy rains in the past few days which created soil erosion leaving a stretch of road closed to traffic. So no bus for me then but the old way back by bus and HSR to Taichung. From Taichung HSR station, I took a bus to Sun Moon Lake. It took less than 1.5hrs.
I chose SPA Home Sun Moon Lake Luxury Lakeside Hotel for my 1 night stay here. The hotel was perfectly located by the lake; just a short walk from the bus which stopped opposite the visitor centre. The room I had was facing directly to the lake and you can take a dip in the bath tub while enjoying the lake view from the large window beside. I was so tired since I did not sleep well the night before. Felled back to bed early and thank god the room was clean and bed was comfy.
Day 6: Taichung to Taipei
Woke up early to take a stroll on the raised wooden platforms along the lake. The lake was wonderfully green with a blue backdrop of mountain range on a clear white sky. Along the way, I heard birds calling and fishes swimming in the water. I think I had just turned into Pocahontas here.
After a long walk, I arrived back to the hotel for breakfast. The breakfast was yummy and I would highly recommend this hotel to anyone. In the afternoon, I took the HSR back to Taipei to get the rest of my luggage with my戰利品 to the airport. It was sad leaving but I had fun and feel totally re-energized. So it was back to hard work and planning for my next trip. Stay tuned…
Total spent.................................................SGD1850
- Air Tickets............................................$350
- Airport transfer.....................................$100
- Amba Ximenting (意舍) for 3 nights.....$403
- HSR & Bus to Alishan..................$59
- Alishan House阿里山賓館 for 1 night...$299
- HSR & Bus to Sun Moon Lake.....$46
- SPA Home Sun Moon Lake hotel.........$203
- HSR & Bus to Taipei.....................$40
- Food & Souvenirs.........................$300
Monday, 17 December 2012
How real can real be?
"Fake that look real
Real that look fake
Fake that look fake
Is Real really real?"
I am 34 going on 35
That’s it, 34 years on earth and half of my life gone. What are my achievements so far?…counting…nah…I’d rather not think that way. How about thinking of what more can I achieve? Hmmm, nice thought. So this blog will be a point of awakening. Too much time wasted on living for others and too little time to think of myself. I shall finally start on a new journey and set a list of New Year resolutions that I will (and must) accomplish! Ha!
Jasmine’s 2013 New Year Resolutions
Jasmine’s 2013 New Year Resolutions
- Get a car license – age catches up and legs will fail eventually
- Travel solo to China – admittedly I asked around and nobody I know wants to go china. Why oh why? I think china is a nice place so I am going to make them regret for not following me. Ha!
- Learn to cycle – fine, laugh all you want. I do have a childhood collection of myself on a bicycle but always with 2 feet firmly on ground. You can say I am pretty 脚踏实地 from young.
- Start a degree course – knock on head…stop procrastinating.
- Kick the bad habit of procrastinating. This would be the hardest resolution to keep. What a challenge!
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