It's all about my travel experience and things I love to do…
Travelogues
Jakarta & Bandung by Garuda Indonesia
Jun 1st
Last week was exciting and fun and draining…
Thanks to Garuda Indonesia, I had a chance to visit both Jakarta and Bandung.
Also, I had a chance to travel with the fehmes bloggers in Malaysia. Oh my! How can I not be excited after the trip! Some did actually commented how lucky I was, but to me, they are just ordinary people with great individual achievements.
Here’s my travel companions and we were at Hangar 2 at Garuda Indonesia HQ in Jakarta, right below the Airbus330-200’s tail.
Top Left:
Joe from LotsOfCravings.
Top Right:
Isabelle from Garuda Indonesia Malaysia.
Bottom from Left:
That’s me, if you haven’t notice. Niki Cheong, Hanis aka “Adik Chomel” from IniBelogSaya and Nicole from Nicolekiss.
Each and everyone of them are great travel companions and gosh, these people can really shop I tell you! They are all crazy shoppers. Maybe I didn’t shop as much, that also because I did not find anything of my interest.
Speaking of which, both Niki and Joe was trying really hard to change my “mundane” dressing. They say I have such boring clothing and I should try to be more creative with the tees I wear and no black/brown or long sleeves. Then again, I would definitely start changing my wardrobe from now on.
Hmmm… Takes a huge step my friends, but I will certainly try… 
More to come from this trip… Stay tuned.
Shanghai World Expo 2010 – Culture, Science and Technology
May 11th
I thought I would like to write up more on the Shanghai World Expo 2010.
The whole purpose of this Shanghai World Expo 2010 is to showcase the culture, science and technology of each participating countries, to the world. Most importantly to create business opportunities.
If any of you would remember, back in the 1960s. There are two famous Wold’s Fair held in New York in 1939 and 1964. That were the similar event to the current Shanghai World Expo 2010. It was then US was in their great era in military, economy, technology and of course science. It is also a time where US was coming out of depression in 1939. Maybe, it could be a show of strength towards the cold war they had with Russia back then after the World War II.
Now, the sleeping giant has awaken, thus the Shanghai World Expo 2010 comes to life. True or not, don’t hold my words for it. China is set to become the next big giant in economy, science and technology also not forgetting as well, the Chinese culture. That I can say, it will happen and it’s happening already.
Watch this promotional video of Shanghai Expo 2010 by DiscoverChinaNow.
Watching the video above, gives me great feeling. A feeling I can’t describe with words. Maybe it was because of the music… Hehe.
It is somewhat like Age of Empires, where you can see how each achievement each age can bring to a certain nation. Truly amazing. It’s Age of Empires, live in Shanghai, 2010!
Okay… Maybe I should start planning to head over to Shanghai World Expo 2010.
I may sound that I’m comparing two countries on this particular event. In actual fact, World Expo happens every 5 years. The previous World Expo 2005 was held in Japan.
This video can tell you more facts on Shanghai World Expo 2010.
The World Expo is govern by the Bureau International des Expositions.
My final question before I part this post is, will Malaysia bid to host a World Expo?
Shanghai World Expo 2010 – Opens for visitors
May 2nd
1st May 2010, the Shanghai World Expo 2010 opens to the world. Shanghai is expecting around 70 million visitor for this six months long World Expo that will end at 31st October 2010.
A total of 189 countries is participating in the World Expo and a whopping USD$45 billion has been spent on the face-lift of Shanghai for this World Expo.
The World Expo Site in Shanghai.
On the night of 30th April 2010, Shanghai launched the Shanghai World Expo 2010 in style. Al Jazeera’s Divya Gopalan reports.
For those who can’t make it there, worry not as you can be part of the World Expo though Shanghai Expo Online. Shanghai is surely exploiting the online technology to the max.
Through Shanghai Expo Online, you can interact with every available pavilion that is available there. You can even walk around the expo, just like playing Sims. It is truly phenomenal that you HAVE TO give it a try. Wonder if they would create Sims Expo? Hmmm…
I shall be covering the Shanghai World Expo 2010 more in coming weeks. There’s so much to talk about. Stay tuned.
For more info of Shanghai World Expo 2010, visit http://en.expo2010.cn
Phuket in One Picture
Apr 4th
Yes… if you ask me about Phuket, I will just tell you one thing.
It’s all about…
See, one picture says it all…
It’s all about Girls… A-Go-Go… Ping Pong Show… Long Time… Short Time… Girls… Ladyboys… (Oh noes!) and of course, Alcohol and girls again…
Recycle the list above 100 times… Yes…
I was a good boy there. Yes! Trust me…
I dare not touch them. They are just too dodgy.
Could be a man in disguise you know!
But then again, don’t take my words for it. Phuket has far more beauty than the general perception as per the above. I’ll write more about Phuket real soon.
Flamingo by the Beach Hotel Penang
Jan 28th
It was after the Christmas BarBeKILL, The Boys made their way up to Penang. I joined them later on by taking a flight on AirAsia. That’s when I got the Air Asia Last Minute Super Cheap Fare.
We stayed at Flamingo by the Beach Hotel, Penang which is located on the stretch of Tanjung Bungah beach. Can’t complain with the quality of the beach if you want a beach nearby the city and ease of traveling in and out of Batu Ferringhi which has nicer beach compared to Tanjung Bungah.
Did not really explore the whole hotel, but if you want a decent “new” hotel and nearby the city, this would be it. This is the view from the front entrance into the lobby.
The reception area large enough to handle a big group check-in or large crowd. The service by the reception staffs, just okay.
The lounge right opposite the lobby. See that Foosball table? Don’t even think of playing it. They balls are all gone hence, when you put your money in, no balls comes out. They are nice to refund my RM3.00 without hassle. Hope they get the new balls.
The pool may get very busy over the weekend with families spending their weekend there. Can chill on the beach chairs and sun bath all day long if you want. Pool bar offers good service, but they need to pay more attention to customers sitting just right outside the restaurant.
The hotel has 280 room capacity with 250 of them are deluxe rooms (hill view & sea view), 28 suites and 2 presidential suites (source). Room rates goes around RM 210 depending on the source you get them from.
I would say the room is big enough to fit in 4 person if you are 2 adults and 2 kids traveling together. Oh in the hotel, they got a Spa, Gaming Room (oh yeah!), Travel Agency and other facilities and outlets you can splurge your money on. If that is the more honest way to put it.
My hotel experience at Flamingo by the Beach Penang: 7/10
Comments:
I like the whole environment. Parking is free even for public and the most important thing is that the room is decent and bigger than usual for the price of RM 200++.
The hotel is located on Jalan Tanjung Bungah. See Google Maps.
Full hotel address:
Jalan Tanjung Bungah
Tanjong Bungah, Pulau Pinang 11200
Tel: +604-892-7111
KL Sentral to LCCT
Jan 28th
A lot of people would rather pay a taxi to LCCT which would normally cost RM 80 from any location in Klang Valley. I’ve got my regular whom I always use when I head over to airport. His name is Mr. Kana and his number (Zero-One-Six) 2735934. A reliable chap and always on time to pick you up. He usually charges me RM 70 to LCCT from Sunway.
Anyways, the point is. There is another way for you to reach LCCT from KL Sentral. It is a service by Express Rail Link which brings you from KL Sentral to LCCT in less than 50 minutes. (I’ve calculated the time)
First, you need to get yourself a ticket from KL Sentral. It will only cost you RM 12.50 and the train will take you to Salak Tinggi.
Then, from the Salak Tinggi station, you just need to walk out to the main entrance and you can see the transit bus waiting for you to board.
When I was traveling (December 2009), there were not many people in the bus. They even have a luggage storage space in the bus. It will definitely be a challenge to move in and out for those who got abnormally large luggage. Not too sure if they have luggage compartment at the bottom as they usually does.
For full train schedules, please visit KLIA Transit to LCCT – Schedule.
There you go, my experience using KLIA Transit to LCCT. Will definitely travel with KLIA Transit again…
The 2010 New Year’s Eve
Jan 10th
I just realize that I did not click “Publish” for this post! My timing has been so the off and I’m always late. Must start organizing my time and not to be late for appointments anymore!
Okay, enough of kinky steamy post for now. I don’t always write those kinda things wan lah. I’m a good boy, remember? So, it’s time for updates, and these was 2010 New Year’s Eve at Penang.
Bought myself a super cheap AirAsia ticket up to Penang to have fun with The Boys from 30th Dec 2009 till 1st Jan 2010. The travel which was all in the hands of The Boys.
This is where I stayed, Flamingo by the Beach on Tanjung Bungah. Not too bad though this hotel, considering it is a four star rated hotel. Formerly it is known as Crown Jewel Hotel.
For the countdown, we went to Sunset Bistro at Batu Ferringhi and it was like super jam pack with people. Considering we have a beach feel, but the location… ermm.. could be better. I wanted to search for the bar I went two years ago, but I can’t remember that place’s name. Quiet environment, by the sea but I can’t remember if they have a beach there.
Overall, I enjoyed the trip. Been a while since Chiang Mai that I can just relax. Plus, the whole random Taboo games was like crazy! We could have played Monopoly the whole night lah, seriously. Throughout this whole Penang plan, the driving back part was a little bit tiring. Next time, we fly.
Part of The Boys. Missing Pat who’s in South Africa and Ben is just being Ben for being an anal for not coming.
Good start for 2010… and more to come.
It’s a Holi-Year
Dec 7th
This coming 2010 is gonna be a Holi-Year. A short for Holiday Year.
A short term taken from Cheesie. She owns the copyright of this term.
It’s gonna be regional trips first. No money lah. Have to save up for rainy days okay!
So, here is the “Tentative” plans…
Jan – Bangkok (Just decided yesterday…
hahah)
Feb – Phuket
Mar – ???
April – ???
May – Africa (50% confirm)
June – ???
July – Singapore (I think it should be in June. Bah. Whatever)
August – ???
September – Mt. KK (yes, again!)
October – ???
November – ???
December – Aussie (I’m coming to find you Nads!)
There are few other places which I’m still undecided when to go yet. They are Hong Kong, Siem Reap, Hanoi, Medan and Koh Samui. Yeah. The list is just nice to empty my pocket… 
Will update from time to time. But let’s see how it goes lah.
Jun? You wanna help with the list?
Fruit and Juice
Nov 20th
I was having lunch earlier and I had one of the best Rojak ever.
Then I remembered the nice yummy sour mango I had last year while I was in Penang. It is so so so so so rare to find the same taste and type of mango here in KL.
I was told they are selling it at Pudu Wet Market.
Time go get dirty!
On another note, this reminds me of the nice Juice I had in Malacca too.
The CC Team of AIESEC International Congress at Malacca roadside, nearby Tan Kim Hock for fresh juice pit stop.
Veranda Chiang Mai, The High Resort
Nov 11th
Hey peeps. How is it going there? It’s mid week already! Woot!
Now, let me continue from my earlier Chiang Mai, Thailand sneak peak.
I’ve got lots of comments on how beautiful Chiang Mai is, base on the pictures I put up of course. I would say, it is beyond beautiful. It’s just bliss…
There is one reason why the pictures are so nice, it is because I’m staying 15KM away from the city. In comparison to KL, it is like from KL to Old Klang Road or Ampang.
The journey from the city to Veranda Chiang Mai, The High Resort is about 30minutes. This resort is just wonderful and bear in mind, what you are gonna see is listed as World’s Top New 140 Hotels by Conde Nast Traveler.
I’m gonna stop babbling and just do a quick tour of the hotel with you.
Veranda Chiang Mai is like a big maze, but because the resort has ample signage around you will not get lost in this beautiful resort.
This is the Entrance of Veranda Chiang Mai. Very good first impression.
This is the Main Lobby. Simple yet elegant. See how the reception blends with the environment?
The ever wonderful, helpful and hospitable staff of Veranda Chiang Mai. Makes you feel at home even though 3 hours away from Malaysia.
Restaurants in Veranda Chiang Mai. The Higher Room. Breakfast buffet.
Rabiang Cha Restaurant. Modern Thai restaurant with great outdoor dining experience. I don’t usually find this kind of setting elsewhere.
Meeting Facilities at Veranda Chiang Mai. Just nice for small group of 200 people. Good for private functions for corporate, friends and families.
Veranda Spa. Total Zen like environment. They had a buy one free one promo while I was there. Did not had a chance to visit. 
Valley Deluxe Room. The lowest category room, yet still sophisticated.
Jacuzzi Pavilion Room. Balcony with sunken spa jacuzzi. This room is about THB 10000 per night, and that’s rack rate.
Plunge Pool Pavilion Room. Right below Jacuzzi Pavilion Room.
Presidential Pool Villa that comes with swimming pool and jacuzzi. It was occupied, hence only one exterior picture. When I make my millions, I will stay here. Definitely!
The swimming pool, paddy field and walkways at Veranda Chiang Mai, The High Resort. A lot of mixture of water and greens.
Veranda Chiang Mai is the perfect place for “me” time. Lot’s of place to hang out and relax besides the room itself. Plus, you can loan books, iPod and DVDs.
The small pavilion, Valley Deluxe Rooms, Fitness Room and Kids Club.
Okay. I’m done with pictures. So here’s my take on Veranda Chiang Mai.
I personally like this resort very much. It has all the sustainability features which blends into the surrounding nature plus with a lot of natural light being used, the resort saves energy. You don’t actually need air conditioning as it is quite cooling at night. During the day, it will be hot but it’s not humid.
The are abundance of activities at Veranda Chiang Mai to keep you occupied. As mentioned above, loan iPod, Books, Magazines or DVDs to kill time.
You can visit a nearby Elephant Sanctuary and also Buddhist temple to spend time with the local monks and to see how they go about their daily life.
Liking it already? Wait no more. Book your trip now! Check out Veranda Chiang Mai’s Special Packages and Promotions page for special deals.
Resort Details:
Veranda Chiang Mai : The High Resort
192 Moo2 Banpong Hangdong Chiangmai
Thailand 50230
Tel: 053365007 Fax: 053 365 362
rsvn-chiangmai(at)verandaresortandspa(dot)com
GPS 18.45.14.44 N / 98.53.19.60 E.
You can also make your bookings with me of course if you want. Just e-mail me at travel(at)yapthomas(dot)com
Wow, this is a long post. I’ve got a video but I shall leave that for later.
