travel.pszenkhim

Back to Msia-Day 6

2011-12-31T07:59:00.001-08:00

Journey to Medan-Day 5

2011-12-31T07:43:00.000-08:00

Free and Easy in Lake Toba-Day 4

2011-12-31T07:36:00.000-08:00

Lake Toba- Day 3

2011-12-31T07:16:00.000-08:00

Berastagi to Lake Toba-Day 3

2011-12-31T06:44:00.000-08:00

Gunung Sibayak Part 3-Day 2

2011-12-31T06:38:00.001-08:00

Gunung Sibayak Part 2-Day 2

2011-12-31T06:18:00.000-08:00

Gunung Sibayak Part 1- Day 2

2011-12-31T05:56:00.000-08:00

Berastagi,Indonesia Day 1

2011-12-31T05:21:00.001-08:00

Tianjin Morning Walk (Day 6)

2011-11-30T03:40:00.000-08:00

12th Nov 2011

Last day of the trip, as usual, we had our breakfast for instant noodles in the hotel room. Then we hurried down to walk around Tianjin before we call it a 6 days trip in China. The big clock was situated nearby the hotel we stayed.

The tallest building in Tianjin.
The morning breeze was cold and windy.
Only the air was not fresh but dusty.
Funny smell along the river, smelled like urinate.
We posed for three times for this shot. HB's head could not be seen.
There's bridal wedding photos shooting down along the bridge.
The camera felt down during this shot because HB knocked against the railing.
Other scenic in Tianjin.
And more....
The cycling and driving lane are individually. Further down is Parkson Supermarket.

Tianjin's statue.
The sunlight was glaring but the breeze was colder than Beijing.
What was PS smiling at?
Where had all the vehicles gone to?
Famous dumpling in Tianjin. Located down the hotel.
The look of the dumpling shop.Clean and neat.
PS had chicken noodles soup as her lunch before we leave for the airport.
Tianjin Binhai International Airport.
Very neat airport.
Flight to Malaysia at 1550 hours, flight no D7313.Was an enjoyable trip!
PS was engrossed with the I Pad while HB felt asleep.
On board in Air Asia flight to Malaysia. Home sweet home!

Tianjin trip ( Day 5)

2011-11-30T02:28:00.001-08:00

11th Nov 2011

After a short break, we took " tuk tuk" to Tianjin Bell Tower. It cost only 10 yuan per ride.

3 wheels vehicle.
Tianjin building looked like being in western country.
The road to Tianjin Bell Tower.
Bronze sculptures in Tianjin.
These sculptures are widely found in China.
Yes, another difference sculptures poses.
Rickshaw again, same as in Wangfujing Street.
Tianjin Bell Tower.
Stalls beneath the Bell Tower.

Nice to see, nice to buy.
Run down church in Tianjin.
Modern and high rises building found every where.
Unique traffic light.
There's Parkson in Tianjin too but it's very hazy and dusty.

Beijing back to Tianjin (Day 5)

2011-11-30T02:09:00.000-08:00

11th Nov 2011

Saw that the train was approaching to bring us to Beijing South Station. Used the last coach as easier to get in and off with luggage.

Beijing South Station. Very modern.Travelling by speed train to Tianjin.
Inside the speed train.
Tianjin hotel which we put up for a night for 11.11.11
The washroom was rather small and limited.

Beijing National Stadium (Day 5)

2011-11-30T01:36:00.000-08:00

11th Nov 2011.

We checked out from Dawan Hotel but placed the luggages with them. Last day in Beijing thus we used the subway and took bus to the National Stadium. Beijing National Stadium, also known officially as the National Stadium or colloquially as the Bird's Nest. The stadium was designed for use throughout the 2008 Summer Olympics and Paralympics.

The entrance was free of charge when we visited.
The tallest building is the 7 stars hotel.
Accommodated for the 2008 Olympics.
Hello there....
Beijing National Aquatics Center aka the Water Cube

PS worn her new shoes from Silk Street while I had my handbag from the Pearl Market.
Yeah, I can't make it during Olympic but was here today on 11.11.11
Don't count me out.
Also the head of the family.
All in one and one for all.
Olympic Tower.
The billiards monument.Am I good at imitating?
Greeting from Bird's Nest of Beijing.
The ginko's leaves.
Stopped at the flyover for a last view.
Straight on and walk down on right was the bus stop, back to Dawan Hotel to collect our luggages.

Shichahai Lake ( Day 4)

2011-11-30T00:57:00.000-08:00

10th Nov 2011

Got off the rickshaw and walked across the busy road. This is the beginning part of Shichahai Lake. HB said that I would like it very much as I've been talking about visiting this place each time I saw the scene in the movie. No idea where am I.

Nice to be able to stroll along.
Sunset at 1613 hours.
Old houses at the background in Shichahai.
Have you seen this scene besides these photos? I had in movies.
Be quick! It's 1616m hours, getting dark soon.
I like this pose.
Less pollution compared to the city but too commercialized now.
Famous bridge of Shichahai Lake.
This scenic could be made into postcard view.
It's peaceful and quiet.
Tourists intending to homestay must register with the nearest police station first.
Strolled around Shichahai .
Wooden door with four poles indicates well to do family.
My, my, the candy stick are three times than the normal.
HB wanna try out the yogurt drink . Container to be return after drinking.
Items sold in Shichahai are so much cheaper than the city.
Walked straight down until the road and headed for bus to go back.
Spotted the long Q at this shop. Food must be good but no time to try it out. Took bus and stopped at the nearest at Wangfujing street. Crossed the road and found the row of exotic food stall.
Shared with PS the big portion of rice. Tasted delicious but the ginko soup was tasteless. Anyway, HB finished it all.
One more night shot at the famous Wangfujing Street before we left for Dawan Hotel.

Heading to Shichahai Lake (Day 4)

2011-11-30T00:11:00.000-08:00

10th Nov 2011

Done with the Bell and Drum Tower, the rickshaw man's last destination to bring us was to Shichahai Lake. That was the agreement earlier.

We needed to pass through Hutong again to get there.
Simply can't get my eyes off the beautiful trees.
This is a nice .
Almost similar but it's not, only the same colour leaves.
The narrow lane looked clean.
Passed by the fruits stall. The fruits were so fresh.
These tall and huge stalks of green vegetables.
Numberous of it.

Drum Tower, Beijing (Day 4)

2011-11-29T23:06:00.000-08:00

10th Nov 2011

The two-story building was made of wood The Drum Tower is made of wood with a height of 46.7meters. On its second floor there originally were 25 drums. Among them, there were one large drum and 24 smaller drums.

Originally built for musical reasons, it was later used to announce the time and is now a tourist attraction.
One happy family.
There's a railing separating the stairs in the middle.
The railing helped me a lot in climbing up and down the Drum Tower.
Performance just about to start when we reached the top. It was very loud.
Most of the tourist were enjoying the drum performance but I stood far behind due to the loudness.
Closet incense holder.
Here's another piece.
First drum and all worn out now.
The drums are beaten hourly for the tourists in Beijing.

Bell Tower, Beijing (Day 4)

2011-11-29T22:16:00.000-08:00

10th Nov 2011

Getting down from the rickshaw, we were told to get our tickets from a booth. The tickets fares were extremely expensive with tourist guide and thus we refused to pay and wanted to take photos in front of the Bell Tower. Later, the rickshaw told HB to buy tickets from the entrance if we don't need any tourist guide companion. Be smart during travelling or else will get cheated without any detail information. This Ancient Bell signboard is on the entrance gate.

The Bell Tower .

Can't step further back because not allowed by the guard. Meant for tourist exit from the Bell Tower.
HB was engrossed with Bell Tower until he forgot to purchase for the tickets .
The entrance tickets were for two areas i.e Beijing Bell and Drum Tower.
Family photo shot took by the serious guard.
Way up to the Bell Tower behind the wooden fences.
The stone staircase looked steep and tiring for me but not for energetic youngster.
Getting ready to climb. Actually I'm phobia of heights. Counted the numbers of stairs as I climbed. Total were 75 steps.
Information...
Gigantic bell.
Trying to lift the bell.
Tourists are not allowed to go near the bell .Up to certain distance only.
Knowledge time.
The bell was rung by being struck by a two meter long log hanging from chains

View from the Bell Tower.
Gosh, need to go through the steep staircases again. Going down was more scary.
Careful not to tumble over each other.
Nice pose.
I followed too.

Hutong-pedestrian street (Day 4)

2011-11-29T06:11:00.000-08:00

10th Nov 2011

Soon we got off from the subway elevator, this rickshaw man had been negotiating with HB onto the ride. At last, both of them agreed on 120 yuan for the ride around Hutong, Bell Tower and Drum Tower.Three of us sat on the rickshaw. PS sat in between mom and dad.

The rickshaw journeys begins.....
Hutong was being renovated thus it looked clean, right?
Way of living determined onto the two red poles aka poverty.
Rickshaw man was young and able to carry 3 of us.
There's no toilet in all houses and the residents share the public toilet outside.Gosh.....
As we go on and on....
Old forks gathered around to pass time .
Despite how the residents decorate the house yet their place was limited.
No proper place for laundry hanging.
Look at this narrow lane. Yet the rickshaw managed to go through it. Amazing.
Second time seeing the persimmon tree in Beijing. The tree was fruitful nearing Chinese New Year.

Temple of Heaven Pt3 (Day 4)

2011-11-29T04:48:00.000-08:00

10th Nov 2011

We kept walking until I stopped at these trees for it's unique. Never seen it before.

The Imperial Vault of Heaven.
HB wanted this shot for his remembrance.
Earlier, was standing at one corner to wait for HB and PS to look around.
For more knowledge, feel free to read.
The inner layout of Imperial Vault of Heaven.
The architectural are very detail in each part.
Circular Mound was the only area which we didn't enter.
Lack of time, decided to take shot outside the circular mound.

As usual, PS had her share in photo too.
And also HB.
Then, we decided on the couple photo.
As we crossed over from the Temple of Heaven, was the Pearl Market. Another shopping area. Much cheaper than Silk Street.
Strolled along this old alley and had cheap and clean lunch here.
Was heading for the subway, bought lots of souvenirs from here. Very cheap and lots of bargain onto the leather handbag that I managed to buy.Satisfied.

Temple of Heaven Pt2 (Day 4)

2011-11-29T03:44:00.000-08:00

10th Nov 2011

This building is located directed opposites Temple of Heaven. Notice the small iron bench on the left, used for snapping best photo.

Take your time to read on.....thanks.
Hall of Prayer for Good Harvests.
The layout inside the hall.
Another Hall of Heaven.
Imperial Hall of Heaven with it's detail.
We had seen it all and photo time.
PS and hubby, image looks alike.
Oops... incidentally uploaded the father and daughter photo again.
East Annex Hall....
We went in to take a quick look.
Part of the item found inside the East Annex Hall.
This venue was behind a store.
Found that most of the Halls can be view from here.
Cute, isn't it?

Temple of Heaven Pt1 (Day 4)

2011-11-29T01:49:00.000-08:00

10th Nov 2011

All the way by Beijing subway to head for our fourth day destination. None other than The Temple of Heaven. More details about the Temple of Heaven .

Ticketing counter for various entrance.
Adult fare cost 30 yuan while kid's fare cost 25 yuan .
Long walk to the Temple of Heaven.
Temple of Heaven could be seen straight ahead on the far end.
Passed the long corridor on the way to Temple of Heaven.
Could the slope meant for disable senior citizens?
Old age is not a matter in Beijing. These people could easily fulfill their free time.
Senior citizens entertained themselves by playing flute for others to hear too.
So, the long waited " Temple of Heaven".
Used as worship during the Ming and Qing dynasties.
Also, listed as place of interest in Beijing too.
We were here on 10th November 2011 at 0924hours.

The Wangfujing Snack Food (Day 3)

2011-11-28T04:55:00.000-08:00

9th Nov 2011

It were the third time during the three continuously nights being in The Wangfujing Street. Entered the Wangfujing Snack Food to view around.

First stall greeted us with the lively moving scorpions, waiting for buyers and to be fried alive in the wok.
Candy coated plum, a must try when visiting Beijing.
Various meats coated with curry powder for sale.
The meat tasted extremely spicy and the coated plum candy was too sweet. No harm trying it for yourself.
Pancakes made from durian.
More exotic food.
Stinky taufu was found in Beijing too besides Taiwan. Gosh, the smell was killing.
Had one whole Peking duck for our dinner.
We ate the Peking duck at the shop with reasonable rate at 38 yuan per duck compared to the high class restaurant with much higher rate with better service.
Bronze sculptures of old Beijing - rickshaw.
I'm feeling exhausted and sitting on the rickshaw for a moment helped a lot.

Tiananmen Square (Day 3)

2011-11-27T18:35:00.000-08:00

9th Nov 2011

We made it to the end of the road along Hutong, stood at the center of Beijing city are The Forbidden City and Tiananmen Square. The round building as the background scene is The Opera House.

Across was The Forbidden City which we came from hours ago.
The daily crowded, Tiananmen Square.
Tourists never miss it when visiting Beijing city.
The square consists of Monument to the People's Heroes,Great Hall of the People,Mao Zedong Memorial Hall.
Monument of the People's Heroes.
We couldn't visit the two buildings behind the Tiananmen Tower as we almost worn out.
Took a subway nearing the signboard ahead.
Beijing subway took us straight to the famous shopping centre "The Silk Street".Ignore the blur picture.
We came out of the building to take a look.Note that tourists came out with bags on their hands after visiting the Silk Street building.
Shop till you drop but don't forget to bargain enormously if you're interested in buying.
The left hand side outside the Silk Street building.
Building opposites the Silk Street .
The city looks clean.
It's 16.37 hours and the sky was getting dark. Total darkness by 17.00hours.

Way to Tiananmen Square (Day 3)

2011-11-27T07:19:00.000-08:00

9th Nov 2011

The long walk in The Forbidden City lead us out and along the whole stretch of yellow changed tree. All trees had changed its colour and preparing for the winter season.

It's such a beautiful scenic.
Took shot of the changing trees, can't find in Malaysia.
The atmosphere is so calm and peaceful.
Tourists in groups are walking to their individual buses.
Such a beauty indeed.
The Moat surrounding The Forbidden City.
The Moat was meant as protection for The Forbidden City.
We reached, walked along Hutong , the way to Tiananmen Square.
Lunch at the shop along Hutong, turned out to be an expensive lunch overall.
HB ate 'Tan Tan noodles. Plain noodle with beancurd gravy only.

The Forbidden City-Pt 6(Day 3)

2011-11-25T06:57:00.000-08:00

9th Nov 2011

The ending part of The Forbidden City. A very long, long walk indeed around it. Must be tiring for those older people. The garden looks beautiful and calm.

The area is called The Imperial Garden.
Further about it, do enjoy your reading.
Big rock found in the garden.
The thousand year pavilion.
Antique indeed.
Fabulous too.
Ancient cypress with old and hardy branches.
Hall of Imperial Peace.
Next will be the Hill of Accumulated Elegance.
Finally, Gate of Divine Prowess.
The gate is also the exit for all tourists. End of tour in Forbidden City.

The Forbidden City-Pt 5(Day 3)

2011-11-25T06:34:00.001-08:00

9th Nov 2011

There won't be ending, exploring in The Forbidden City.This was the following destination we entered to view.

A detail layout when we stepped inside.
Hall of Mental Cultivation
Also the room of three rarities.
The views are as below:
Next, Hall of Consolation.
All consisted by unique layout.
We walked to another corner.
Palace of Gathering Excellence.
See, difference arrangement again.
About Puyi, the last emperor.
This was about Empress Dowager.

The Forbidden City-Pt 4(Day 3)

2011-11-24T06:24:00.000-08:00

9th Nov 2011

Journey in Forbidden City continued with the Hall of Central Harmony.

Please read on.......thanks.

Now is the Hall of Preserved Harmony.

Rest room is at the corner. Remembered this alley very well from the Hongkong Movies.
This shot are always found in the Emperor series.
The guards will carried the concubines to the Emperor.
Stopped at the book store and HB took a quick look at the book.
Map of old city gates of Beijing.
The old gates in olden days.

The Forbidden City-Pt 3 (Day 3)

2011-11-24T05:50:00.000-08:00

9th Nov 2011

Hard to take picture due to the glaring sunlight yet insisted.

Look at the numberous of tourists climbing up the stairs.
We will take our time.
Another craving.
Next, the Hall of Supreme Harmony. So many section.
PS chosen this as her photo .
Both of us joined in.
Goodness, I can't believe the crowd.
The throne in the Hall of Preserving Harmony.
Nice view.
Copper and Iron Vats, please read on...
The copper and vat.
Getting hotter and had to take my jacket off.
Where to go next?
Three in a row, happy family.
Personal photo for PS.

The Forbidden City-Pt 2(Day 3)

2011-11-24T05:06:00.000-08:00

9th Nov 2011

The tickets fare for 3 persons were 120yuan aka RM60 which was RM20 per head.Why wait? Let's go.

Saw an ambulance waiting too in case.......
When we came out from the entrance door, we saw many heads.
Photo for remembrance.
Leading to another part.
Got this tribe to snap with me.
Large stone craving.
PS tried her best to keep her eyes open.
It was very glaring, indeed.
This posture should go well.
I took picture of it for remembrance.
HB did not miss out.
Gate of Supreme Harmony.
Looked behind before we proceed on.
Better stayed together. Not easy to find if get lost.
Always cling to PS or HB.
Easily to monitor as we came by ourselves.
Everyone said " cheese"

The Forbidden City ,Pt 1(Day 3)

2011-11-24T04:25:00.000-08:00

9th Nov 2011

After coming out from the tunnel, this was the scene. Lots of tourists, either DIY or in groups.

Taihemen Square
Very spacious to accommodate such a huge crowd.
Stay together or else will get lost soon.
HB with his personal pose.
Can't enter the border because it's the army place.
Persimmon tree are found here. First time seeing it in real.
Toward Chinese New Year, the persimmon tree are bearing fruits abundantly.
Three miniature on top.
Another tunnel to enter.
The Sun are very glaring.
Heavy gate and tall in height.
The knob looked big too.
All kinds of flags for individual groups with tour guides.
Are we there yet?
A group of army performed their task.
This was the best place to take picture.
Less crowd.
Thank goodness, we are on our own. Free to go about anywhere.
From here onward, need to purchase tickets before we enter.

Entering the Forbidden City (Day 3)

2011-11-24T03:53:00.000-08:00

9th Nov 2011

It's been a distance from the hotel, far is the word yet finally, finally, we made it to the World UNESCO, the Forbidden City.Many vehicles and tourists are seen here and there.

Can't believe it that " Here it is"
As seen in movies but this is real.
Shooting in front of it.
Yeah, agreed.
A detail map for tourist.
Opposite of Forbidden City is Tiananmen Square.
Busy like an ant on both famous building in Beijing.
I've stood in front of Forbidden City on 2011.
Me too.
The whole family had been to Forbidden City.
More photo, please
And another.
Wow, the huge crowd.
Forever this crowded at anytime.
Surrounded with the serious guards.
Moat of Forbidden City.
Entering the huge door.
Followed by the tunnel leading to the Forbidden City.

Free and Easy ( Day 3 )

2011-11-23T06:13:00.000-08:00

9th Nov 2011

Walked 1km from Dawan Hotel to Mc D for our breakfast. Soon, we made our way out from the building and walked along the road leading to the Forbidden City.In fact, Forbidden City was a distance but as we kept walking and walking, taking shots here and there, we found that we had landed in a park besides the Forbidden City.

As we walked along the pathway.

Raffles Beijing Hotel.
Forbidden City is nearby the corner.
Mistaken the red wall as Forbidden City.
We walked down the road and turned left.
It was Zhongsan Park, Beijing.
Nice park indeed.
Liked the layout of the park.
The trees in the park are so unique.
Trees are beginning to change colours too.
Winter time will be here soon.
Outstanding rock to be shoot.
Tremendous outlook on the back.
Wondered what was PS seeking for?
HB was so engrossed with his photo takings!
Straight ahead leads the way out.
Is the fur warm enough for the cat on this weather?

Silk, Tea,Reflexology and shopping (Day 2)

2011-11-23T04:59:00.000-08:00

8th Nov 2011

More happenings after the visit to Great Wall of China. After lunch, we were brought to the Silk factory to witness the whole process from the cocoons to the silk making.

The silk will be stretched by few staffs to stack into layers by layers to make into a complete sheet.Not suitable in Malaysian weather and it's too costly.
Later, we walked to the back lane for free tea. Do you think that it is really for free? The staffs tried to sell the tea to tourists after the tea trying was over.
Last stop that the tour guide brought us was to the reflexology centre.PS only soaked her legs because reflexology was meant for 20years and above.
Of course, it was gimmick again. Staffs kept pestering tourist to buy their herbs back after getting the so called Tibetian doctor to check onto individual hand pause.
Wow, two moons appearing during that night.
All of us were waiting for the tour guide to go back after the session.
Straight ahead is the way out to Wangfujing street.
Full of tourists, busy negotiating the pricing.

Came to this stall for 4 continuous night.The vendor automatically reduce the price after the first night of bargaining from HB.
Another back lane entrance to the snack food street.
Oriental Plaza.
View from the hotel room at 21.16 hours.

Great Wall of China Pt 2 (Day 2)

2011-11-23T03:58:00.000-08:00

8th Nov 2011

After the quarterly steps, I decided to wait for HB and PS while both of them continued the climb with other tourists much higher for the Great Wall.

PS will take the steps from here while I'll be waiting for them .
HB accompanied PS to go higher from this level.
PS was tired and sat on the steps for a break.
View from the top yet not the highest.
More steps to climb yet HB and PS stopped at this level.
She did it to this level. Much better than her mom,LOL.
Bravo HB!
PS requested for a shot at this view.
And more.
Not missing out with this pose too.
The souvenir stalls stood between the right which leads to the climb while on the left to more scenic.
Lady in red came together with us and others.....
Steps started from the bottom, red jacket.
Further from the stalls, another great wall plus the river .
Back scene was surrounded by Great Wall.
Sorry, can't translate the Chinese wording on the building.
Afar was the climb that we made it just now.
The weapon as their means of protection.
Will it snow today, that's on my mind.
Where else to go for photo shooting?
The tour guide took us for our free lunch ( included as the trip). Mostly vegetables.
Part of the group tourist from Phillipines.

Great Wall of China Pt 1 (Day 2)

2011-11-22T04:21:00.000-08:00

8th Nov 2011

Beginning of the climb up.

This is only the starting part of my climb. Tourist from all walks of life found here.
HB and I had been here on 8th Nov 2011.
We stood on the soil of Great Wall of China in 2011.
Lots of energy needed to climb the stairs. Are you ready for it?
I'm starting to feel exhausted.
But PS felt the reverse of it, full of energy.
HB looked forward for the climb too.
The best view for photo session.
Lovers locking padlocks to the chain, symbolise the enduring nature of their love.
The steps were high and steep.
Clinging to the iron pole when climbing up and down the steps.
How many more steps to go?

Reaching to Great Wall of China (Day 2)

2011-11-22T03:57:00.000-08:00

8th Nov 2011

Great Wall of China was the awaited destination for everyone. It was the main purpose of visiting Beijing too. Had to travel some distance.

From a far, the Great Wall of China could be seen.
Getting nearer and nearer to the mentioned place.
Great Wall of China have many entrances. We were going to Ba Da Ling ( without the cable car access).
Sign of the entrance to Ba Da Ling.
Great Wall scenic getting clearer.
Further and turn left is the main entrance.
Soil of Great Wall of China.
Wonders of the world.
Given one and the half hour to climb by ourselves the Great Wall.

Ming Tomb (Day 2)

2011-11-20T02:01:00.000-08:00

8th Nov 2011

Stopped at one of the 13th Ming tomb call Zhaoling tomb. Tickets fare were included in the 150 yuan paid to the tourist agency.

The fare is 20 yuan as knowledge but normally included when travelling in tour.
The reverse of the ticket.
Detail map of the layout.
First entrance and long way to go.
Couple shot.
Bridge full of water and mountains at the back were good signs.
Family photo moment.
Others were ahead while I took shot for PS.
In exchange, PS took photo for me too.
And, it's HB turn.
Daddy and mommy too.
Peace to the world.
Are we there yet? No......way to go.
Taking break by snapping photo.
Will climb after photo session.
Yup.
On my way up, PS was the cameraman for HB.
Walking through the tunnel before climbing up.
Almost there after a few more steps to climb.
The pathway leads the way out.

Great Wall of China (Day 2)

2011-11-20T01:01:00.000-08:00

8th Nov 2011

Another day and our destination was The Great Wall of China. The tour guide came over at 0730hours at Dawan hotel to fetch us. The trip consisted of three families from Philippines ( 2 ladies), a couple from India and the three of us.

Passed by Bell Tower which we will be visiting it the following day.

Scenic along the way.
Stopped at the jade factory (must when following tour group). Man behind was craving the stones into a ball.
In 2008, all the medals were craved from the jade factory.
PS with the jade terracotta warrior.
The jade ship can only be seen and photograph but can't afford the price.
Much bigger jade craving .
White cabbage resembles feng shui too.
Shooting with the roaring lion.
Sarang he (love in korean language) from PS.
Never ending jade in display.
This jade factory which all tourist will never miss when going to Great Wall of China.
The vehicle took us for the day trip and to recognize the plate number as won't get lost.

Wangfujing - Day 1

2011-11-18T05:15:00.000-08:00

7th Nov 2011

Less than 5 minutes walk from the subway lead to Wangfujing Dawan Hotel. Stayed in this room from 7th until 11th Nov.

The bathroom is spacious.
It provides heater too. Switch the above air cond on and the heater will automatically function.
We walked 1km from our hotel and found the famous exotic street food.
Tourists all around the exotic food stalls.PS been here too.
Sea horses were part of the exotic food but none of us dare to eat.
These food looked like buns but it was crabs.
Whole row selling all kinds of exotic food. PS and I dare not go near the stalls.
HB bought these dumplings but sorry to say that it tasted lousy and too dry.
Star fishes, on far left were among the display.
Wangfujing is the famous shopping street.
APM Mall (blue light), we entered to see if anything interest us.
To our surprise, food republic was found inside the mall.
Our dinner, soup noodle.
The flour pancakes was tasteless. Hardly eat it .
Fried rice was edible.
This sculptures was located outside the mall.
Bronze sculptures of old Beijing - street barbers.
St.Joseph's Wangfujing Cathedral.
The cathedral church was lively.
All ages did their line dance nightly in front of the cathedral church.
Even tourists joined in the line dance.

Beijing South- Day 1

2011-11-18T04:39:00.000-08:00

7th Nov 2011

In a short time, we realized that the train had stopped at the Beijing South station. Wow, that's fast for the speed train.It's 16.36 hours and by 17.00hours, Beijing will be dark soon.

We asked help from a lady to snap the family photo for us.
When all the passengers had left, we took our time to take more pictures of the station.
The CRH station have many tracks for other destinations too.
Very sophisticated layout.
Last shot with the speed train again.
Be leaving for another subway line, purchasing ticket from top floor.
Travelling to Wangfujing Dawan hotel but with normal subway.

China Rail Highspeed (CRH -Day 1)

2011-11-18T02:06:00.000-08:00

7th Nov 2011

Without wasting any time, HB went to purchase tickets for the CRH to Beijing South. All of our passports needed to be shown and being keyed into the computer.

The top floor from the ticketing counter.
Also the entrance for all destination on the same floor. The station looks clean, modern and big.
5 more minutes for the train to depart yet we couldn't resist on the remembrance shot with the speed train.

I wanted to snap with the highspeed train too. Then three of us ran for our lives to hunt for the correct coach to board the train.
We managed well to board the train. What a risk! HB was wondering about in the train. He informed us that the canteen is behind our coach.
The ticket cost 55 yuan per person to Beijing South. Coach 4 Seats No 14,15 and 16
Whom was HB smiling at? He's observing the speed monitor display.
Passenger were well informed of the temperature outside.Very update .
Staff came round selling the touch light key chain in resemblance of train model cost 10 yuan (RM5)
PS and I went to the canteen to have a look. Varieties of food being sold.
The train moved at 293km/hr as displayed on monitor and could reach 300km/hr at maximum. The whole journey took only half an hour to reach Beijing South.

TBIA to CRH (China Rail High Speed-Day 1)

2011-11-18T01:05:00.000-08:00

7th Nov 2011

As the plane was nearly to land, PS looked out of the window, started taking shots for remembrance of the trip.

PS saw some smokes coming out of it. Do you know what is it?Take a wild guess.

Take a closer look. It is the neutral plants. Hardly get to see it with our own eyes.
Our plane had landed on the hazy TBIA (Tianjin Binhai International Airport).
I'm stepping on the soil of Tianjin, China on 14:37hours. The time is the same as Malaysia time too.Need not to adjust my watch.
We found that the airport provides free mobile phone charger. So considerate of them.
From the airport entrance, we purchased tickets from this booth to the railway station to Beijing.
Father and daughter were so engrossed with the sight seeing in the new country.
Tricycle aka trishaw on the road. They call it as " too too"
The modern look of Tianjin police station.
Pleased that Tianjin railway station is only 0.3km
Walked along the pathway as construction is going on.
The railway station is huge and gigantic.Modern too.
Railway station was spacious too. Later, we learnt that it is the back of the railway station.
We were heading for the China Rail High Speed to go to Beijing.
Tianjin with all high rises building.

M'sia to Tianjin Binhai International Airport (Day 1 )

2011-11-17T23:57:00.000-08:00

7th Nov 2011

This Beijing trip was booked last year but the flight was being postponed to a week later than the earlier date due to PS's final examination which ended late. Postponing date caused another 2K for the flight fares. It was from 7th till 12th Nov 2011. Not forgetting that I mentioned Tianjin as Air Asia flight land in Tianjin Binhai International Airport (TBIA) and not in Beijing itself.

Parked our car at Putrajaya Park & Ride parking to take the ERL to Salak Tinggi station.Exchange to Shuttle bus to LCCT upon arrival. Reached Putrajaya at 0500hours and we had to wait for half an hour for the ticketing counter to open. Going to LCCT requires to buy the ticket from the counter and can't buy it from the machine vendor.

The RM5.50,adult fare included the bus ticket to go to LCCT.
Not many passengers in the waiting room. Could it be that we were early again?
Flight No to Tianjin was D70312. Needed to fill in the arrival card on board.

Can't control the air condition because it is centralize.
The 6 hours flight occupied PS by taking shot of herself on board.
Tianjin could be seen from aboard. Landing shortly.
HB enjoyed listening to songs and the I Pad too

Soon, PS realized that ice were formed at the window. Temperature must be freezing cold outside.

Cameron Highland @ August 2011

2011-10-13T05:26:00.001-07:00

(Part 2 of school holidays)

After check out from the Damai Laut Resorts on 28th August, we stopped at Sitiawan town for the famous chendol. Besides the chendol stall, spotted these extremely large jackfruit. Then, we started our next destination to Cameron Highland.

The Bharat Tea plantation in Cameron Highland. View from the top.
We've made it to the top of the hill.
Tomyam and chicken soup steamboat at Mayflower restaurant for our dinner.
The whole day was raining cats and dogs. The atmosphere during the night @ 16 celcius. Freezing cold for Malaysia.
HB was surfing at the garden of the guest house with the cooling weather.
The cheap and reasonable guest house which we always stayed when holidaying in Cameron Highland.
During our last stop, although it's raining, we don't mind to have a shot with the huge sunflower.
The huge sunflower.Only can be found in cold area like Cameron Highland.

Dining at TGI Friday's (17.09.2011)

2011-10-13T04:31:00.000-07:00

HB redeemed two vouchers of RM50 from his Standard Chartered points. One of the voucher was for Tai Thong Restaurant whereby the other was for T.G.I Friday's. Not so keen dining at TGI Friday's but since PS been bugging to dine there so HB decided to allow her to try the food for her satisfaction.

Kids eat for free in regardless which day you dine at TGI Friday's. PS was not ready for her shot yet.

The kid's meal, recommended by the friendly waitor. Tasted nice.
While waiting for the food, PS was busy surfing from her handphone with the free WIFI.
Of course, HB never missed his chance in surfing too as I posed for PS to take shot.
The scene of the surrounding. It was crowded at the front part of the restaurant thus we were seated at the Italiannies, also the link chain to TGI Friday's.
Yeah, everyone loves Fridays.
Sizzling chicken and Shrimp @ RM33.90
South macoroni and cheeze @ RM 24.90
PS enjoyed the last bite of the kid's meal.
The total bill summed up to RM68.30 and after deduction of the RM50 voucher, including the 10% Service charge and 6% Gov Tax, we needed to pay RM29.25

Playground slide

2011-10-12T22:54:00.001-07:00

Due to vandalism during the holy month, someone must had made a complaint. It was on the UPSR week that I realized these men walking towards the slide to demolish parts of it. The part which was vandalise or to be more exact, it was burnt till a hole was blue in colour.

Workers were trying to dismantle the part of vandalise slide.
The vandalise part was blue in colour.
Notice, the newly changed part of the slide which was pink in colour.
Kiddos gets to play at the slide once again. And hopefully, there's no more vandalism.

Skylight installation

2011-10-12T20:42:00.000-07:00

Had installed the skylight on the side of the porch in replacement of the ruined pergola the previous time. On 15th June, as neighbour was doing their house renovation, installing the skylight on their front porch thus we had our front porch being installed too. The main purpose was to cover HB's car from shine or rain.

The look of the front porch before installation.

Workers started to measure the length before nailing the wood permanently.
The plank looked heavy and needed two workers to hold onto it.
Okay, all the wood frames were in the positions.
The skylight will looked like that in position.
Closer look at the wood frames.
Looked simple but not an easy job for common people.
The polycarbonate awning was put onto the wood frames.
Closer look at the polycarbonate awning aka skylight. Now, my front porch is being cover from the sunlight.

Adios Hermit Crab

2011-09-21T05:00:00.000-07:00

Few months ago, an additional aquarium was being bought. No, no, it's not for fishes but for the three hermit crabs that we bought. Found the hermit crabs interesting and that's how the whole thing started. The aquarium needed to be fill with salt water all the time. Last week, the smallest hermit crab's body was found half way out of it's shell. The truth was, the hermit crab was dead.Sob,sob,sob.......

Now, the reminder of two hermit crabs, the white shell (biggest with purple body) and spotted black shell .Others are empty shells for the hermit crabs to change to new shell.
Closer look of the reminding hermit crabs. The white hermit crab is my favourite.
Take note of the three hermit crabs. The yellow white spot was the one which deceased.
The actual look of the hermit crab without it's shell. Nearing the end of the hermit crab body was soft and the head was hard.
Deceased hermit crab with it's body and former shell.
The two turtles on the other aquarium. Turtles are great eater and by the look of it, we know that it is.
Besides being in water, the turtle are given the options to be on dry surface too.

Holidaying in Damai Laut, 27/8/11

2011-09-16T06:25:00.000-07:00

(Part 1 of school holidays)

HB booked a night stay at the Damai Laut resort months ago as our last entitlement with Swiss Garden. Left our house, the following day after the school holidays started. As planned, stopped by at the Leaning Tower, Teluk Intan for lunch i.e. the famous chee cheong fun.

The famous Leaning Tower in Teluk Intan.
Teluk Intan's style of chee cheong fun.
The scenic view from the Damai Laut resort's lobby.
Sipping the welcome drink while waiting for the room to be ready.
Big imitation iguana on the wall as part of the resort's deco.
Photo session time after waiting for too long.
PS with her hands gesture.
HB patiently killing the time by reading the newspaper.
A fishing boat which looked like being sunk.
PS favourite part in the hotel room.
Hotel roaming time.
Beach priority before the sunset.
After strolling the beach, heading for the pool.
Views taken from the pool.
Dinner time. Was slightly feverish and ordered coconut to cool me down.

Free and Easy, Day 4 ( 18/3/2011 )

2011-04-12T21:52:00.000-07:00

Self Exploration, Day 4 ( 18/3/2011 )

2011-04-12T21:45:00.000-07:00

Borubudur, Yogyakarta,Day 3 ( 17/3/2011)

2011-04-12T00:50:00.000-07:00

Foot of Borubudur, Day 3 ( 17/3/2011)

2011-04-12T00:46:00.000-07:00

More of Borubudur, Day 2 ( 17/3/2011)

2011-04-12T00:43:00.000-07:00

All about Borubudur, Day 3 ( 17/3/2011 )

2011-04-11T23:50:00.000-07:00

Leaving Borubudur,Day 3 ( 17/3/2011 )

2011-04-11T23:17:00.000-07:00

Lunch Time recommendation, Day 3 ( 17/3/2011 )

2011-04-11T23:14:00.001-07:00

Prambanan Temple as UNESCO,Day 3 ( 17/3/2011)

2011-04-11T23:08:00.000-07:00