YapIsland

Yapisland is back after 2 years of absence

2011-03-08T15:54:00.000-08:00

After 2 years of absence to pursue other interests, I am back but in another blog

http://www.yapisland2.blogspot.com

Nutmeg

2009-03-08T00:05:00.000-08:00

Roaming around the Tropical Spice Garden in Penang during a recent visit to Penang,took a snapshot of the Nutmeg tree to share with you.

Nutmeg is widely grown in the surrounding hill slopes of Balik Pulau in Penang. This photograph was taken in the Tropical Spice Garden in Penang.

Description on Nutmeg and its uses.

Nutmeg is used as food, spice and medicine.

The Nutmeg fruits.

Cannon Ball Tree in East Coast Park, Singapore

2009-03-07T00:07:00.000-08:00

Went for a morning walk in the East Coast Park, Singapore and took some snapshots of the Cannon Ball Tree & Flowers to share with you.

Cannon Ball Trees can be found in most parks in South East Asia. This one is found in the East Coast Park, Singapore.The free flowering tree can grow to 15 metres in height.

Beautiful flower of the Cannon Ball Tree. You can see bees are attracted to the flowers.

The flowers are so colorful. They are seen almost everyday, free flowering of the Cannon Ball Tree for your admiration.

Window shopping

2009-03-06T00:01:00.000-08:00

While window shopping, came across this item for sale. Just snap to share with you.

All the dwarf figurines are for sale. They are just beautifully made and nice to have in your showcase for decoration.

Japanese Carp or KOI

2009-03-05T00:02:00.000-08:00

Visited a friend who has a pond full of Japanese Carp or Koi. Looked beautiful and full of colors in the water. Took some snapshots to share with you.

The carp is a large group of fish originally found in Central Europe & Asia. Various carp species were domesticated in China & South East Asia, where it was used a food fish.

Historical records indicate that carp were first bred for color mutations in China.The ability of carp to survive & adapt to many climates and water conditions allowed the domesticated species to be progagated to many new locations including Japan. Natural color mutations of these carp would occurred across all populations.

Of the various domesticated carp species, the common carp is the most commonly raised food fish used in aquaculture. The common carp are known as Koi in Japan.First bred for color in Japan in 1820.

Penang Hawker Food : Kafe Mandarin

2009-03-04T00:04:00.000-08:00

KAFE MANDARIN - Lorong Delima 6 - PENANG

Kafe Mandarin

There are many Penang Hawker Food stalls in the Kafe Mandarin

Penang Char Koay Teow

Penang Laksa

We went to look for old Kedai Kopi Genting in shoplot at the junction of Lorong Delima 6 and Lorong Delima 3 in the evening for dinner but found it empty but directly behind Kedai Kopi Genting, there is the new Kafe Mandarin brightly lit-up and full of people.

We decided to give it a try. There are many stalls selling all the different Penang Hawker food - Char Koay Teow, Pan Mee, Hokkien Mee, Laksa,Koay Teow Soup, Popiah, Chicken Rice, Indian Nasi, Rojak and many others.

We had Penang char koay teow and Penang laksa. The Char Koay Teow was quite good for MR2.80 only. The Penang Laksa was a disappointment as it was not up to standard even though it was only MR2.50.

Orchids

2009-03-03T00:06:00.000-08:00

ORCHIDS

Snapshots of Orchids for your viewing pleasure.

Happy viewing.

Beautiful Orchids

2009-03-02T00:03:00.000-08:00

Beautiful Orchids

Fascinated by the beauty of orchids on show in Penang Botanical Garden during a recent visit, we decided to snap some photos of the beautiful orchids to share with you.

Happy viewing.

Penang Hawker Food : Kopitiam at night

2009-03-01T00:01:00.000-08:00

Penang Night Kopitiam - Penang Hawker Food

If you are looking for Penang Hawker Food in the evening in Penang Island, go straight to Restoran Bee Hooi. It is at the junction of Jalan Burmah and Lorong Pulau Tikus. It is one coffee shop where you can find all your favourite Penang hawker food.

Chinese Pasembur - good

Or Chien - very good

Char Koay Teow - very good

Lor Bak & Prawn Fritters - good

Sar Hor Fun - one of the best in town

There are many other stalls serving all Penang hawker fares - Hokkien Mee, Curry Mee, Jawa Mee, Lor Mee, Wan Tan Mee, Satay, Chicken rice, western food and many others. The place comes alive only after 6 pm and is always crowded.

Penang Hawker Food Coffee Shop : Kheng Pin

2009-02-28T00:07:00.000-08:00

If you are in Penang and searching for Penang Hawker Food for lunch, you do not need to look further, just go straight to Kafe Kheng Pin.

Kafe Kheng Pin is located at the junction of Jalan Penang (Penang Road) and Jalan Sri Bahari.

There are many good yummy Penang Hawker fares in this coffee shop "Kafe Kheng Pin".

Penang famous Char Koay Teow hawker at work. The price is reasonable , RM4 a plate (with duck egg). The Char Koay Teow is really good.

Do not miss this Penang Hawker Food : Char Koay Teow

Char Koay Teow

The Wan Tan Mee Stall serves very good Wanton Mee. He is very generous with ingredients.

Wan Tan Mee

Lor Bak Stall

The stall serves very good Lor Bak & Prawn fritters. They sells fried Tau Kwa, Squids and others as well. It is one of the best Lor Bak stall in Penang.

Lor Bak & Prawn Fritters is a must when you have lunch in the Coffee Shop

Lor Bak & Prawn Fritters

If you like Chicken Rice and willing to wait for at least 20 minutes, the chicken rice from this stall is worth your wait. It is really good and tasty.

Chicken Rice

The other hawker stall in the coffee shop is Koay Teow Thng (Koay Teow Soup). The Koay Teow Soup is really good but might not be the best in Penang.

Koay Teow Thng

There are many coffee shops in Penang serving Penang Hawker food but there are not many where you can find all the good hawker fares together in one coffee shop.

You do not need to run around for different hawker food, just pay a visit to Kafe Kheng Pin and you will understand why this coffee shop is a must to visit for locals as well as tourists or visitors to Penang like us.

Breakfast in Phnom Penh Airport, Cambodia

2009-02-27T04:10:00.000-08:00

On transit back to Singapore from Siem Reap, we had breakfast in Phnom Penh Airport

Angkor Pub in the Phnom Penh Airport

We had a good breakfast as well as some rest during transit in Phnom Penh on our way back to Singapore.

Snapshots of flowers in around Siem Reap, Cambodia

2009-02-26T00:03:00.000-08:00

We took some snapshots of flowers when we travel around Siem Reap, Cambodia during our recent trip to the UNESCO heritage sites

Hope you like the snapshots brought to you for your viewing pleasure.

Scenery around Siem Reap, Cambodia

2009-02-25T00:02:00.000-08:00

We went around Siem Reap town and took some snapshots of scenery to share with you

Siem Reap is an interesting place to visit apart from the heritage site though the place is dusty. It is also an artistic town where you can find some good paintings on those famous heritage buildings for sale. The best time to visit is around February.

Snapshots of buildings around Siem Reap, Cambodia

2009-02-24T00:08:00.000-08:00

As we travelled around Siem Reap, Cambodia and visiting the heritage sites, we took some snapshots of buildings for you to see how they are like.

National Museum

The buildings will give you an idea of the place we visited, Siem Reap, Cambodia around the town area.

Angkor Wat in Siem Reap, Cambodia

2009-02-23T00:01:00.000-08:00

This is the last part of Angkor Wat - the heritage building in Siem Reap, Cambodia

The first level of the heritage building is the most artistically interesting. Most visitors begin their exploration with the bas-reliefs counterclockwise around the temple.

Bas-relief highlights include the mythological Battle of Kuru on the west wall, the historical march of the army of Suryavarman II, builder of Angkor Wat, against the Cham, followed by scenes from Heaven and Hell on the south wall and the classic ' Churning of the Ocean Milk' on the east wall.

Angkor Wat in Siem Reap, Cambodia

2009-02-22T00:02:00.000-08:00

This is part III of the heritage building in the heritage site in Siem Reap, Cambodia, THE ANGKOR WAT

The visual impact of Angkor Wat is tremendous to us. As you pass through the outer gate and get your first glimpse, its size and architecture make it appear two dimensional, like a giant postcard photos against the sky.

The temple interior is not as densely carved as the first level exterior, but still sports hundreds of fine carvings of apsaras and scenes from the Hindu mythology.You can find the various chambers, statues and architectural forms in the interior. The central tower on the third level houses four Buddha images, each facing a different cardinal point, highlighting the fact that though Angkor Wat was constructed as a Hindu temple, it has served as a Buddhist temple since Buddhism became Cambodia's dominant religion in the 14th century.

ANGKOR WAT - Siem Reap, Cambodia

2009-02-21T00:01:00.001-08:00

This is the 2nd part posting on Angkor Wat.

The temple itself is 1 km square and consists of three levels surmounted by a central tower. The walls of the temple are covered inside and out with bas-reliefs and carvings.

Nearly 2000 distinctively rendered apsara carvings adorn the walls throughout the temple and represent some of the finest examples of apsara carvings in Angkorian era art. But it is the exterior walls of the lower level that display the most extraordinary bas-reliefs, depicting stories and characters from Hindu mythology and the historical wars of Suryavarman II. It is in the viewing of the basreliefs that a tour guide can be very helpful.

The northern reflecting pool in front is the most popular sunrise location. The sun will rise behind Angkor Wat providing a silhouette of Angkor's distinctively shaped towers against a colored sunrise sky.

Angkor Wat in Siem Reap, Cambodia

2009-02-20T00:05:00.000-08:00

ANGKOR WAT is visually, architecturally and artistically breathtaking. It is a massive three-tiered pyramid crowned by five lotus-like towers rising 65 meters from ground level.

Angkor Wat is the center piece of any visit to the temples of Angkor.

We have the opportunity to visit this heritage building during our visit to Siem Reap recently in the evening and admired it during sunset.

At the apex of Khmer political and military dominance in the region, Suryavarman II constructed Angkor Wat in the form of a massive 'temple-mountain' dedicated to the Hindu god, Vishnu.

It served as his state temple, though the temple's uncommon westward orientation has led some to suggest that it was constructed as Suryavarman II's funerary temple.

Other temple of the same style and period include Thommanon, Banteay Samre, Wat Atwea and Beng Melea, which may have served a prototype to Angkor Wat.

Angkor Wat is surrounded by a moat and an exterior wall measuring 1300 meters x 1500 meters.

We are really impressed by the huge heritage jewel, Angkor Wat. (To be continued).

BAYON - Angkor Thom in Siem Reap, Cambodia

2009-02-19T00:05:00.000-08:00

This is the posting of the final part of Bayon - Angkor Thom - Siem Reap, Cambodia.

The best of Bayon are the bas-reliefs on the exterior walls of the lower level and on the upper level where the stone faces reside. The bas-reliefs on the southern wall contain real-life scenes from the historical sea battle between the Khmer and the Cham.

It is not clear whether this represents the Cham invasion of 1177AD or a later battle in which the Khmer were victorious.

Even more interesting are extensive carvings of unique and revealing scenes of everyday life that are interspersed among the battle scenes, including market scenes, cockfighting, chess games and childbirth.

Also note the unfinished carvings on other walls, likely indicating the death of Jayavarman VII and the subsequent end of his building campaign. Some of the reliefs on the inner walls were carved at a later date under the Hindu King Jayavarman VIII.

The surrounding tall jungle makes Bayon a bit dark and flat. Currently there is extensive work being done on some of galleries.

As mentioned, Bayon is a must for your visit if you are in Siem Reap for only a short stay. Our visit to Bayon was memorable. Bayon is impressive.

Bayon - Angkor Thom in Seap Reap, Cambodia

2009-02-18T00:08:00.000-08:00

Bayon - the giant stone faces of Bayon have become one of the most recognized images connected to classic Khmer art and architecture.

There are 37 standing towers, most but not all sporting four carved faces oriented toward the cardinal points.

Who the faces represent is a matter of debate but they may be Loksvara, Mahayana Buddhism's compassionate Bodhisattva, or perhaps a combination of Buddha and Jayavarman VII.

Bayon was the Jayavarman VII's state-temple and in many ways represents the pinnacle of his massive building campaign.

It appears to be and is to some degree, an architectural muddle, in part because it was ocnstructed ina somewhat piecemeal fashion for over a century.

Bayon - Angkor Thom - Siem Reap, Cambodia

2009-02-17T00:08:00.000-08:00

This is a three-part postings of BAYON - Angkor Thom in Siem Reap, Cambodia. The Bayon is a Buddhist temple constructed in late 12th century C.E. during the reign of Jayavarman VII.

If you have only time to see two temples in Siem Reap, Cambodia, then it has to be Angkor Wat and Bayon

We visited this heritage site and came impressed. More to come on the Bayon, stayed tuned.

Banteay Kdei in Siem Reap, Cambodia

2009-02-16T00:07:00.000-08:00

Banteay Kdei - As with other works of Jayavarman VII's era, it is a tightly packed architectural muddle, which kike Bayon, suffered from several changes in the plans at the time of construction. It was also built using an inferior grade of sandstone and using poor construction techniques, leading to much of the deterioration visible today.

Banteay Kdei Temple

A restoration project is underway on many of the towers and corridors, and some areas are blocked off. The foundation steel of the temple has not been found so there is no record of to whom it is dedicated.

The 13th century vandalism of Buddha images that is seen on many Jayavarman VII temples is quite apparent on Banteay Kdei.

BANTEAY KDEI - Siem Reap, Cambodia

2009-02-15T00:02:00.000-08:00

We visited Banteay Kdei in Siem Reap, Cambodia. This is a two-part posting on this Buddhist temple in the style of Angkor Wat/Bayon. It was constructed in the late 12th and early 13th century C.E. during the reign of King Jayavarman VII.

The plaque describing Banteay Kdei restoration

The entrance road to the Banteay Kdei Temple

The side view of the Banteay Kdei temple

Sprawling, largely un-restored, monastic complex in much the same style as Ta Prohm. It was originally constructed over the site of an earlier temple, and functioned as a Buddhist monastery under Jayavarman VII. (To be continued).

Ta Prohm - in Siem Reap, Cambodia

2009-02-14T00:02:00.000-08:00

This is the part II of Ta Prohm which we visited during our recent visit to Siem Reap, Cambodia.

Ta Prohm is worth exploration of its dark corridors and open plazas. This temple was one of Jayavarman VII's first major temple projects.Ta Prohm was dedicated to his mother. (Preah Khan , built shortly after Ta Prohm in the same general style, was dedicated to Jayavarman VII's father).

Ta Prohm was originally constructed as a Buddhist monastery and was enormously weathly in its time, boasting of control over 3000 villages, thousands of support staff and vast stores of jewels and gold. Of the monastic complex style temples, Ta Prohm is a superior example and should be included in almost any temple itinerary.

Ta Prohm - Siem Reap, Cambodia

2009-02-13T00:04:00.000-08:00

We visited Ta Prohm in Siem Reap, Cambodia. This is the first part of two parts of this Buddhist of Bayon style temple constructed between 12th century and early 13th century during the reign of Jayavarman VII.

Write-up of Ta Prohm

Entrance to Ta Prohm - a long walk into the jungle

Landmine victims playing classical Khmer music - donation welcome

See the roots of the huge trees

See how huge are the trees with the exposed roots

Of similar design to the later Jayavarman VII temples of Preah Khan and Banteay Kdei, this sprawling monastic complex is only partially cleared of jungle overgrowth.

Intentionally left partially unrestored, massive fig and silk-cotton trees grow fromthe towers and corridors offering a 'jungle atmosphere' and some of the best 'tree-in-temple' photo opportunities at Angkor.

Dinner in Wayfarers Pizzeria in Sofitel Resort in Siem Reap, Cambodia

2009-02-12T00:05:00.000-08:00

We had dinner in one of the restaurant in the Sofitel resort we stayed in Siem Reap, Cambodia, the Wayfarers Pizzeria.

Wayfarers Pizzeria in Sofitel Phokeethra Royal Angkor Golf & SpA Resort

Seafood Spaghetti

Hawaiian Pizza with fresh pineapple

The food was fantastic and of high quality and standard. The Seafood Spaghetti was really good with the hotel-made spaghetti sauce and fresh seafood. The pizza is really thin and crispy. The ingredients are all fresh especially the pineapple.The price is very reasonable at US$5 for each dish. We enjoyed our dinner.

Angkor Thom - Phimeanakas in Siem Reap, Cambodia

2009-02-11T00:02:00.000-08:00

Phimeanakas in Angkor Thom, a Hindu in the style of Kleang temple, was constructed in late 10th and early 11th century C.E. in the reign of Jayavarman V.

Impressive laterite and sandstone pyramid. The lack of surviving carvings leaves it srtistically uninteresting, but it is the tallest scalable temple in Angkor Thom, providing a nice view from the top.

The western staircase ( at the back) is the most easily ascended. Located inside the ancient Royal Palace compound, Phimeanakas served as the king's temple.

Legend has it that the golden tower crowned the temple and was inhabited by a serpent, which would transform into a woman. The kings of Angkor were required to make love with the serpent every night, lest disaster befall him or the kingdom.

Angkor Thom - Terrace of Elephants in Siem Reap, Cambodia

2009-02-10T00:06:00.000-08:00

The Terrace of Elephants in Angkor Thom, a Buddhist mixed style temple was constructed in the 9th century C.E. during the reign of Yasovarman VII.

Garudas & lion-headed figures

Leper King Terrace

The Terrace of the Elephants is an impressive, two and half-meter tall, 300meter long terrace wall adorned with carved elephants and garudas that spans the heart the heart of Angkor Thom in front of Baphuon, Phimeanakas and the Royal Palace area. The northern section of the wall displays some particularly fine sculpture including the five headed horse and scenes of warriors and dancers.

Constructed in part by Jayavarman VII and extended by his successor. The wall faces east so the best lighting for photography before noon.

The Terrace of the Lepeer King is at the north end of the Terrace of the Elephants.

Angkor Thom - Baphuon in Siem Reap, Cambodia

2009-02-09T00:03:00.000-08:00

Angkor Thom - Baphuon - a Hindu temple in the style of Baphuon was constructed in mid 11th century C.E. during the reign of King Udayadityavarman II.

The reclining Buddha taking shape

The walkway entrance

Huge temple-mountain in the heart of Angkor Thom. Largely collapsed and in ruined condition, the main temple area is undergoing extensive restoration.

Most of the construction area is not open to the public but over the last several months, certain areas have begun to open to the public. The exterior entry gate and elevated causeway are open as well as some areas around the perimeter of the construction.

Note the unique animal carvings of the walkway entrance. Similar carvings are visible on West Mebon. Also note the large reclining Buddha on the west side, which was added to the temple at a much later period.

South Gate to Angkor Thom in Siem Reap, Cambodia

2009-02-08T00:05:00.000-08:00

There are five entrances (gates) to the city, one for each cardinal point and the victory gate leading to the Royal Palace area. Each gate is crowned with four giant faces. The South Gate is often the first stop on a tour.

On the road from Angkor Wat and Siem Reap, the South Gate is the first entrance to the city we entered. On both sides of the entrance, are two rows of figures each carry the body of the serpent. On the left are the gods and on the right are the demons (asuras.

PRE RUP Temple in Siem Reap, Cambodia

2009-02-07T00:04:00.000-08:00

PRE RUP in Siem Reap, Cambodia, a Hindu (Shiva) state temple of Rajendravaman II, was constructed in the late 10th century C.E.The style is Pre Rup.

Architecturally and artistically superior temple-mountain.Beautifully carved false doors on upper level, as well as an excellent view of the surrounding countryside. Richly details, well-preserved carvings, particularly on the lintels. Traditionally believed to be a funerary temple, but in fact the state temple of Rajendravarman II.

Historically important in that it was the second temple built after the Khmer capital was returned to Angkor after a period of political upheaval when the capital had been moved to Koh Ker. The artistically similar East Mebon was the first to be constructed after the return to Angkor, less than a decade earlier.

Banteay Srey in Siem Reap, Cambodia

2009-02-06T00:04:00.000-08:00

Banteay Srey was constructed in late 10th century C.E. during the Rajendravaman rule. The temple is of Hindu (Shiva) religion.

BANTEAY SREY loosely translates to "citadel of the women", but this is a modern appellation that probably refers to the delicate beauty of the carvings. Built at a time when the KhmerEmpire was gaining significant power and territory, the temple was constructed by a Brahmin counselor under a powerful king, Rajendravarman and later under Jayavarman V.

Banteay Srey displays some of the finest examples of classical Khmer art. The walls are densely covered with of the most beautiful, deep and intricate carvings of any Angkorian temple. The temples's relatively small size, pink sandstone construction and ornate design give it a fairyland ambiance.The colors are best before 10.30 am and after 2.00 pm but there are fewer tourists in the afternoon. This temple was discovered by French archaeologists relatively late in 1914.

The temple area closes at 5.00 pm. Banteay Srey lies 38 km from Siem Reap, requiring extra travel time. We had to pay an extra US15.00 for the car to take us to visit Banteay Srey temple.

Restaurant "Citadel" in Sofitel Phokeethra Royal Angkor Golf & SpA Resort in Siem Reap, Cambodia

2009-02-05T00:03:00.000-08:00

There are five refined international restaurants offer delicate cuisine from both Asia and Europe in stylish locations. We have the opportunity to have our breakfast and dinner in one of the restaurant called "Citadel" during our stay in the resort in Siem Reap, Cambodia.

Citadel Restaurant in Sofitel

The food we had were of international standard and the price is comparable to any restaurant in a 5-star hotel in Singapore.

Siem Reap : Phnom Bakheng

2009-02-04T00:01:00.000-08:00

Phnom Bakheng was constructed in late 9th -early 10th century C.E. by King YasovarmanI. The religion is Hindu (Shiva) and the style is Bakheng.

The construction of this temple mountain on Phnom Bakheng (Bakheng Hill,the first major temple to be constructed in the Angkor area, marked the move of the capital of the Khmer empire from Roluos to Angkor in the late 9th century AD. It serves as King Yasovarman I's state-temple at the center of his capital city Yasodharapura. The foundation of Bakheng is carved from the existing rock edifice rather than the laterite and earth-fill of most other temples. Bakheng's hilltop location makes it the most popular sunset location in the area., offering a view of the Tonle Sap Lake and a distant Angkor Wat in the jungle. Always overcrowded at sunset. Quiet the rest of the day. Elephant rides up the hill are available for sunset.

ADMISSION PASS TO VISIT THE TEMPLES

2009-02-03T00:07:00.000-08:00

Welcome to Angkor

With the exception of Roluos 13km east, the most important temples lay 6-25km north, the closest being Angkor Wat. To visit the temples you will need to decide how long to stay, purchase an admission pass, arrange transportation and obtain a guidebook or tour guide.

You must possess an admission pass to visit the temples and sites in the Angkor Archaeological Park. All passes may be purchased at the main entrance on the road to Angkor Wat. One-day tickets can be purchased at the secondary tollagate on airport road entrance near Angkor Wat and at Banteay Srey.

Passes are sold in one-day (US$20), three-day (US$40) and seven-day (US$60) blocks that must be used on consecutive days.

You can buy your one-day ticket from 4.45 pm and immediately you can visit Phnom Bakheng to see the temple at sunset. The ticket will have your photo printed on it.

Always carry your ticket. We are checked upon each park entry and at major temples.

Shopping in Siem Reap, Cambodia

2009-02-02T00:01:00.000-08:00

There are many shopping centres in the town but there is one street where all the tourists and locals go for local products. You can find almost anything from Cambodia famous biscuit to locally produced silk bags.

We went shopping in the town after visited Tonle Sap Lake and it is not cheap for those locally produced products compared with Thailand or Vietnam. They are all priced in US dollars.

Siem Reap - Lunch at Neary Khmer Restaurant

2009-02-01T00:02:00.000-08:00

Khmer Cuisine - Neary Khmer Restaurant

Neary Khmer Restaurant - "Wat Bo Road" North of Route #6

Beautiful landscape with many orchids

View of the Open-air restaurant

The restaurant is very clean and green.

Mango Salad

Fried Spring Rolls

Mixed Fried Vegetables

Fish Cakes

Chicken Curry

We had lunch in Neary Khmer Restaurant located at "Wat Bo Road" North of Route #6, Siem Reap, Cambodia. The Khmer Cuisines are delicious. The restaurant is open-air seating. One of the feature that we found in Siem Reap is that their toilets are very clean.

Siem Reap - Visit to a Wood Craving Workshop

2009-01-31T00:05:00.000-08:00

Siem Reap - Wood Craving Workshop

We visited the Wood Craving Workshop in Artisans Angkor, Siem Reap, Cambodia. The workmen obtain their skills through apprenticeship. The finished products produced are very good. They are available in the Artisans Angkor shop in the complex. There are many tourists from all over the world visiting this complex.

Siem Reap - Visit to a Stone Craving Workshop

2009-01-30T00:04:00.000-08:00

Stone Craving Workshop

Display of different types of stones and marbles used for craving

Skilled workman craving an elephant model

Craving a big piece of rock

Skilled workman hard at work

A sample of almost finished product

Some samples of products done by the artists

Finished product on display in the garden of Artisans Angkor

More displayed finished product

Another fantastic finished craved product

We visited this Stone Craving Workshop in Artisans Angkor, Siem Reap, Cambodia.The workmen are very skilled and produce very good finished products. You can see some samples in the garden displayed for public viewing. You can purchase them as well.

Artisans Angkor - Polychroming, gilding & lacquering

2009-01-29T00:07:00.000-08:00

Siem Reap - Artisans Angkor

Polychroming, Gilding & Lacquering Workshop

Samples of products in different process for explanation to tourists

Skilled worker at work.

Polychroming

Lacquering

Finishing touch

The finished products.

We visited this polychroming, gilding and lacquering workshop in Artisans Angkor in Siem Reap, Cambodia. The artists obtained their skills through apprenticeship provided by Artisans Angkor. The finished products are impressive and are on sale at the shop in the Artisans Angkor complex. The place is an tourist attraction and most tour groups are given a tour of the complex with many workshops before they are shown to the shop where the finished products are on sale.

Artisans Angkor - Silk Painting Workshop

2009-01-28T00:01:00.000-08:00

ARTS IN SIEM REAP, CAMBODIA

Silk Painting Workshop

Skilled artists at work

The sign language they use to communicate

Most of the skilled workers are handicapped and use sign language to communicate

The skilled apprentices at work.

The finished products displayed in the shop.

We visited this Silk Painting Workshop in Artisans Angkor, where the skilled painters are dumb using sign language to communicate. They learned their skills through apprenticeship. They are so artistic that their finished products are so good that many tourists are attracted to buy from the shop in the huge complex of Artisans Angkor in Siem Reap, Cambodia.

Artisans Angkor in Siem Reap, Cambodia

2009-01-27T00:01:00.000-08:00

The Artisans Angkor in Siem Reap, Cambodia

The surrounding landscape of the huge complex of workshops & shop

A sculpture done by the skilled workmen

Sandstone Polychromy Workshop

Learning through apprenticeship

The process of sandstone polychromy

The finished product in display in the shop

We visited the Artisans Angkor, a place where handicapped people were given a chance to be apprentices to learn a skill and trade. We visited the sandstone polychromy workshop and were quite impressed by the skilled workmen and ladies in producing such a artistic finished product.

Lunar New Year of the golden ox

2009-01-26T00:02:00.000-08:00

LUNAR NEW YEAR of the Golden Ox

Lunar New Year of the Golden Ox is here

Wish you & your family a Happy & Prosperous Lunar New Year

Happy Lunar New Year

2009-01-25T00:06:00.000-08:00

WISH YOU A HAPPY & PROSPEROUS

LUNAR NEW YEAR

Lunar New Year is here !

Wish you & your family a Happy & Prosperous Lunar NEW YEAR

Floating Fish & Crocodile Farm with a Restaurant in Chong Khneas, Siem Reap, Cambodia

2009-01-24T00:06:00.000-08:00

Chong Khneas - Floating Village , Siem Reap, Cambodia

Floating Fish & Crocodile Farm with Tonle Sap Restaurant

Map of Cambodia with the Tonle Sap Lake in blue.

It is a floating restaurant - Tonle Sap Restaurant

All the fishes - so many !

Crocodiles everywhere ? so scaring and unsightly ?

Fishing Method used the fishermen in the area

Another method of fishing !

The floating fish enclosure

Shop for local souvenir ? there are many to choose ?

More choices ! I think they are expensive ! only for the tourists?

The sign says for itself ? We did bought 2 bottles of drinking water !

Our boatmen took us to visit this Fish & Crocodile Farm with a small shop and the Tonle Sap Restaurant. There is an exhibition to show the various methods used by the fishermen in the area to catch the fishes.

There were so many tourists from all over the world visiting the floating village. There are spots in the three-storey building where you can take photos or view the area crowded by all sorts of boats and ferries.

Tonle Sap Lake villages on stilts

2009-01-23T00:03:00.000-08:00

On the way to the Tonle Sap Lake, we can see so many villages on stilts on both sides of the road we travelled.

Tonle Sap Lake is an important commercial resource, providing more than half of the fish consumed in Cambodia. In harmony with the specialized ecosystems, the human occupations at the edges of the lake is similarly distinctive - floating villages, towering stilted houses, huge fish traps, and an economy and way of life deeply intertwined with the lake, the fish, the wildlife and the cycles of rising and falling waters.

Chong Khneas - floating village in Tonle Sap Lake, Siem Reap

2009-01-22T00:02:00.000-08:00

CHONG KHNEAS - Floating Village

Chong Khneas is the floating village at the edge of the lake closest and most accessible to Siem Reap. The boatman pointed out the differing Khmer and Vietnamese floating households and the floating markets, clinics, schools and other boatloads of tourists.

Chong Khneas, while interesting, is overtouristed and is not as picturesque and 'unspoiled' as floating villages further from Siep Reap.

Our trip stopped over the touristy floating fish and crocodile exhibition with a souvenoir and snack shop and the Gecko Environment Centre, which offers displays and information introducing the ecology and biodiversity of the lake area.

Boats in the Tonle Sap Lake

2009-01-21T00:07:00.000-08:00

Tonle Sap Lake in Siem Reap, Cambodia

The Boeung Tonle Sap (Tonle Sap Lake) sits only about 15km south of Siem Reap town. We took the boat to cross the lake and you can see that all types of boats and ferries use the lake to bring tourists and locals alike to the villages at the edge of the lake.

Visit to Tonle Sap Lake ( Boeung Tonie Sap) in Siem Reap, Cambodia

2009-01-20T00:08:00.000-08:00

Tonle Sap Lake in Siem Reap, Cambodia

We took the boat from here, the beach

Our boatmen, preparing us to climb up the boat

Our youngest boatman, I wonder whether he has a licence ?

The Tonle Sap Lake

The wave .. very strong !

We visited the Tonle Sap Lake ( Boeung Tonle Sap) in Siem Reap, Cambodia, in a private boat which cost us US$20 each. If you follow the tour with the big ferry with a tour company, it would cost only US$10 each with lunch.

Cambodia's Great Lake, the Boeung Tonle Sap ( Tonle Sap Lake), is the most prominent feature on the map of Cambodia - a huge dumbbell shaped body of water stretching across the northwest section of the country.

In the wet season, the Tonle Sap Lake is one of the largest freshwater lakes in Asia, swelling to an expansive 12,000 sq m . During the dry half of the year, the Lake shrinks to as small as 2500 sq m, draining into the Tonle Sap River, which meanders southeast, eventually merging with the Mekong River at the 'chaktomuk' confluence of rivers opposite Phnom Penh.

But during the wet season, a unique hydrologic phenomenon causes the river to reverse direction, filling the lake instead of draining it. The engine of this phenomenon is the Mekong River, which becomes bloated with snow melt and runoff from the monsoon rains in the wet season. The swollen Mekong backs up into the Tonle Sap River at the point where the rivers meet at the 'chaktomuk' confluence, forcing the waters of the Tonle Sap River back upriver into the lake. The inflow inundating the surrounding forested floodplain and supporing an extraordinarily rich and diverse eco-system.

Room in Sofitel Phokeethra Royal Angkor Golf & SpA RESORT

2009-01-19T00:03:00.000-08:00

Sofitel Phokeethra Royal Angkor Golf & SpA RESORT

There are 238 superior and deluxe rooms, including twenty-three suites and the unique Thubtim Siam Suite. All the rooms are elegantly designed for our comfort and enjoy the scenic garden views. There are sophisticated in-room facilities which will satisfy the most discerning tastes.

Below are some snapshots of the room we stayed during our trip in Siem Reap, Cambodia.

Our Room Entrance on the hallway in the hotel

The Bed

The Toilet

TV Cupboard

The Dressing Table

The Long Bath

The Wash Basin in the Bathroom

The Cupboard and coffee/tea making facilities

Welcome fruits

Reclining Chair

Below is the balcony's table & chairs.

Landscapping of the Sofitel Phokeethra Royal Angkor Golf & SpA Resort

2009-01-18T00:01:00.000-08:00

Scenic Gardens of Sofitel Royal Angkor RESORT

The Sofitel Phokeethra Royal Angkor Golf & SpA RESORT in Siem Reap, Kingdom of Cambodia has unrivalled luxury with comfort and enjoyment of the scenic garden views.

Hotel in Siem Reap : Sofitel Phokeethra Royal Angkor Golf & SpA Resort

2009-01-17T00:01:00.000-08:00

Sofitel Phokeethra Royal Angkor Golf & SpA RESORT

Sofitel Phokeethra Royal Angkor Golf & SpA Resort

Front view of Sofitel Phokeethra Royal Angkor

Reflection of the Sofitel Phokeethra Royal Angkor Golf & SpA Resort

Front view of the Sofitel Phokeethra Royal Angkor

Another view from the front of the resort

Front view of the entrance of Sofitel Phokeethra Royal Angkor

Side View of the front entrance of the resort

Front entrance of the resort

Inside the main entrance of the resort

Welcome by Cambodia Classical Music at the main entrance

View of the left side of the main entrance of the resort

We arrived at our hotel, Sofitel Phokeethra Royal Angkor Golf & SpA Resort which is a world-class accommodation and amenities close to the magnificent Angkor Wat World Heritage Site.

A sophisticated Khmer-inspired architecture of high ceilings, slender columns and traditional red-tiled roofs houses a refined selection of leisure options, dining venues and boutiques. Lush tropical gardens, lakes and pavilions provide tranquil surroundings.

Sofitel brings style, comfort and harmony to a renowned location.

Visit Siem Reap Angkor, Cambodia

2009-01-16T00:02:00.000-08:00

SIEM REAP ANGKOR, KINGDOM OF CAMBODIA

The Kingdom of Cambodia covers an area of 181,035 square km and the land area of Siem Reap is 10,299 square km. The population is 13.1 million (estimated in 2001).

The Angkor Archaeological Park was designated as a World Heritage Site by UNESCO.

Siem Reap International Airport is 6 km from town center. We bought a taxi voucher at the arrival counter for US$7.00 for a airport taxi to our hotel.

We arrived at the Siem Reap International Airport at 6.55am from Singapore after 2 hours of flight by JetStar Asia.

External View of the Siem Reap International Airport

Arrival at the main terminal building

Inside the Terminal Building waiting for luggage

View inside the Terminal Building

The landscaped area at the side of the Terminal Building

Another view of the Terminal Building

Photographs showing what to expect to see in Siem Reap Angkor

Some information on the The World of Gods, The Center of the World

We had a good flight from Singapore though we have to wake up very early to catch the 6.00 am flight on budget airline JetStar Asia. The flight took 2 hours and we arrived at 6.55am as the time zone in the Kingdom of Cambodia is one hour behind us. The weather was good around 23 degree centrigrade.. cool and dry.

The currency of the Kingdom of Cambodia is Riel ( US$1 = 4,100 Riel) but everywhere the US dollars (US$) is used and most welcomed. A piece of advice, bring alot of US$1 notes as they are very handy and useful. Always remember to keep US25 for your airport departure tax for each person.

Beautiful Orchids

2009-01-15T00:04:00.000-08:00

Beautiful ORCHIDS

Snapshots of Beautiful Orchids for your viewing pleasure.

Happy viewing.

The Beauty of Orchids

2009-01-14T00:09:00.000-08:00

The Beauty of ORCHIDS

Enjoy the color and beauty of Orchids specially taken for your viewing pleasure.

Happy viewing.

Scenic Gardens

2009-01-13T00:02:00.000-08:00

Enjoy viewing.

Sunrise in East Coast Park , Singapore

2009-01-12T00:01:00.000-08:00

SUNRISE in the East Coast Park, Singapore

We went for our morning walk in the East Coast Park and watch the sunrise. It was quite a sight and we captured it here to share with you.

Singapore Hawker Food : Fried Carrot Cake

2009-01-11T00:01:00.000-08:00

Siglap Market Fried Carrot Cake

"Market Mall" - entrance to the market & hawker centre

Located in Block 58 New Upper Changi Road

The Siglap Market Fried Carrot Cake hawker stall is located inside this Market & Hawker Hub

The Siglap Market Fried Carrot Cake Stall

Fried Carrot Cake

We had breakfast Fried Carrot Cake for breakfast in this HDB Market & Hawker Hub in Block 58 New Upper Changi Road. The hawker stall is self service and we have to queue for our plate of fried carrot cake. The stall is very popular and there is always a long line of customers. The fried carrot cake was very tasty and delicious.

Singapore Chinese Restaurant : CHIN LEE Restaurant

2009-01-10T00:07:00.000-08:00

CHIN LEE RESTAURANT

Located in Block 115 #01-285 Bedok North Road, Singapore 4601115

Located on the ground level of HDB Block 115 Bedok North Road. Tel No : 64495454

Opening Hours : Mon-Fri (11.30 am to 2.30 pm) and (6pm to 10.30 pm)
Sat, Sun & Public Holidays ( 11.30 am to 2.30 pm) (5.30 pm to 10.30pm)

Located in Block 115

Fish Mau Soup -very good

Meat Roll - good with the chilli sauce

Fried Dear Meat - very tender and good

Vegetables fried with Scallops - good

Corn Flakes Fried Prawns - very fresh and good

The restaurant has an air-con and non-air-con dining areas. It is always fully booked especially for weddings. It is advised to pre-book before you go to this restaurant.

The Chinese cooking in Chin Lee Restaurant is good and not expensive.We paid S$95 for the above 5 dishes. Overall, we enjoyed our dinner.

Singapore Joo Chiat original Popiah since 1938 & Beef Koay Teow Soup

2009-01-09T00:03:00.000-08:00

KWAY GUAN HUAT - Joo Chiat Original Popiah

Kway Guan Huat - located at 95 & 97 Joo Chiat Road, Singapore, closed on Monday

It is also the BEEF HOUSE - selling the Beef Koay Teow (Dry or Soup)

The Popiah and the Beef House belongs to the same owner and next to each other.

The popiah skins are made in-house. You can buy the popiah skins home to make your own popiah.

Kueh Pie Tee and Popiah

The Kueh Pie Tee tasted good and crunchy.

The Popiah tasted delicious especially the crunchy part when you bite into the popiah. It was just nicely made with the right amount of ingredients and chilli. It has plenty of crab meat too.

Joo Chiat Original Popiah since 1938

Beef Koay Teow Soup

The beef was very tender and melted into your mouth. The chilli sauce was fantastic.

The Beef Koay Teow Soup was and is still one of the better one which we have ever tasted. The beef ball was good as well. Highly recommended.

Snapshots of Orchids

2009-01-08T00:04:00.000-08:00

ORCHIDS

Snapshots of Orchids to share with you.

Just admire the colours to see how beautiful they are.

Beautiful Orchids

2009-01-07T00:04:00.000-08:00

Beautiful Orchids

Took some snapshots of beautiful Orchids during a recent visit to an Orchids Show in Penang Botanical Gardens to share with you.

Enjoy viewing.

Beautiful Garden

2009-01-06T00:08:00.000-08:00

Beautiful Flowers

Beautiful garden

Snapped beautiful garden for your viewing pleasure. Happy viewing.

Pitcher Plants Exhibition in Penang Botanical Garden

2009-01-05T00:05:00.000-08:00

For those who are interested in Pitcher Plants or Carnivorous Plants , go to website :

http://www.petpitcher.com

Penang Hawker Food : Pan Cake ( Ham Chim Peng)

2009-01-04T00:05:00.000-08:00

If you are Cintra Lane, Penang, in the evening, look out for this push-cart stall

The brightly lighted stall is selling Pan Cake (Ham Chim Peng) and Steam Rice Cake.

The hawker busy packing our orders.

The Pan Cake (Ham Chim Peng)

There are many types of fillings from sweet tar sar to five-spice powder ( salty).

The stall is famous for its Pan Cake & Steamed Rice cake and only available in the evening from 6.00pm.

The Pan Cake (Ham Chim Peng) is very good and highly recommended if you are looking for a dessert for supper.

Penang Hawker Food : Famous Wan Tan Mee

2009-01-03T00:09:00.000-08:00

Solok Moulmein ( Moulmein Close) is in Pulau Tikus, Penang

Kedai Kopi Swee Kong is in Solok Moulmein, infront of Pulau Tikus Police Station

Kedai Kopi Swee Kong

Famous Wan Tan Mee Stall in Kedai Kopi Swee Kong

Famous Wan Tan Mee

We had the famous Wan Tan Mee for breakfast during our recent visit to Penang. The mee is rather soggy and the fried wantons are rather tough and hard.

We don't find it that good as perceived and could not understand how it becomes famous that it is called Famous Wan Tan Mee.

Penang Hawker Food : Char Koay Teow, Lor Bak, Ice-Kachang in Lorong Selamat

2009-01-02T00:08:00.000-08:00

Lorong Selamat is a one-way street, entrance from Jalan Macalister

Kedai Kopi Dan Ice Kachang in Lorong Selamat

The Char Koay Teow & the Lor Bak stalls arein push-carts

Lor Bak Prawn Fritters Push-cart

Lor Bak & Prawn Fritters

The Lor Bak and Prawn Fritters are quite good. They are comparable with other stalls in Penang. It is recommended.

Char Koay Teow Push-cart Stall

Char Koay Teow hawker at work

Char Koay Teow

The Char Koay Teow with eggs cost us MR5.50 for each plate. It is not as good as the one up the road fried by his mother. It is rather bland and the koay teow is over cooked until they came in pieces rather than in tact. The big prawns save the day.

Ice Kachang

The Ice Kachang with ice-cream is good and not so sweet. It is recommended as a dessert if you do eat in the coffee shop.

Overall, we enjoyed our lunch in the Kedai Kopi & Ice Kachang in Lorong Selamat. There are many other push-carts selling other Penang hawer fares outside the coffee shop. If you looking for a place to have lunch in Penang, do go to Lorong Selamat.

Happy New Year 2009

2009-01-01T00:01:00.000-08:00

SEASON'S GREETINGS - HAPPY NEW YEAR

Happy New Year

Goodbye 2008

A new year is here... 2009.....

Wish everyone a happy & prosperous New Year 2009.

NEW YEAR EVE -- GOODBYE 2008

2008-12-31T00:06:00.000-08:00

Say goodbye to 2008.

Enjoy your last few moments of 2008 - tomorrow will be a new year 2009

Beautiful FLORA

2008-12-30T00:06:00.000-08:00

Beautiful Flowers

Don't you think they are beautiful. Snapped them for your viewing pleasure.

Penang Hawker Food : Chinese Pasembur

2008-12-29T00:04:00.000-08:00

Along Jalan Burmah and opposite the Belissa Row, you will find a coffee shop by the name of "Restoran Bee Hooi" which starts business after 6 pm. There are many good Penang food stalls in this coffee shop.

View of the side of the coffee shop taken from Lorong Pulau Tikus

Chinese Pasembur

If you are looking for Chinese Pasembur in the evening, this is the place where you can find it and many other Penang hawker favourite food, like orr chen, sar hor fun, hokkien mee, jawa mee, fried koay teow and many others. Business starts from 6 pm in the evening.

The Chinese Pasembur is good and comparable to the one in Padang Brown.

Nyonya Cuisine : Nyonya Cafe in Penang

2008-12-27T00:06:00.000-08:00

If you are looking for Nyonya Cuisine in Penang for lunch or dinner, go to New World Park in Jalan Burma.

New World Park has a private car park and the entrance is along Jalan Burma

The Nyonya Cafe in New World Park, Penang

The address : No 102-A-6, New World Park, 102 Jalan Burmah, 10050 Georgetown, Penang
Tel No : 04-2287919 or 04-2288919
Operatin Hours : 11.30 am to Late Night.

The Nyonya Cafe serves authentic Nyonya Cuisine

"Special" Menu

Interior Decor

The Menu

Hong Bak

Black Vinegar Pork Leg

Assam Curry Fish

Inchin Kabin

Belachan Sambal Kang Kong

Otak-Otak

Fried Tofu in Brown Bean Sauce

Nyonya Cafe really serves authentic Nyonya cuisine according to the Nyonya aunties who we went dinner with in this restaurant.

The food that we had was good and the price was reasonable

We spent around RM105 for 6 of us. It is highly recommended if you are looking for Nyonya food in Penang.

Chinese Restaurant : Reunion Restaurant in Penang

2008-12-26T00:02:00.000-08:00

The Reunion Restaurant

Map to locate the Reunion Restaurant

The Reunion Restaurant is located infront of Penang Chinese Primary School

The Reunion Restaurant is located along Gottlieb Road and its address is :

Blk 11A-G-01 Jalan Gottlieb Bagan Jermal, 103500 Georgetown, Pulau Pinang
Tel No : 04-2287226

Interior View of the Restaurant

Egg Plant with dried prawns in Thai sweet & sour sauce

Thai style Steamed Fish

Claypot Tau Hoo with dried beancurd

Belachan Fried Chicken Wings

Sambal Fried Kang Kong

Fried boneless Pork Chop

We had dinner in this newly opened Chinese Restaurant called "Reunion Restaurant" in Penang. Their headquarter is in Butterworth which is in operation for many years before they decided to open a branch in Penang.

The food is very good and is highly recommended. The price is also reasonable. We spent less than MR100 for a group of 6 of us.

This is the first time we eat skinned fried egg-plant with dried prawns in Thai sweet & sour sauce and it is really good.

There is ample public car parking infront of the restaurant and you can also park in the private car park in the basement of the building.

Merry Christmas 2008

2008-12-25T00:04:00.000-08:00

WISH YOU A MERRY CHRISTMAS

Singapore Hawker Food : Mee Pok

2008-12-22T00:01:00.000-08:00

The Jalan Tua Kong Lau Lim Mee Pok stall is located in this coffee shop located between Bedok Road and Jalan Chempak Kuning infront of Bedok Market Place.

The Jalan Tua Kong Lau Lim Mee Pok Stall

Mee Pok

We had lunch in this Mee Pok stall in Simpang Bedok. The Mee Pok is good but not good enough compared with other famous Mee Pok available in Singapore.

Bedok South Hawker Centre Block 16 : Japanese House

2008-12-21T00:02:00.000-08:00

The Bedok South Hawker Centre is in Block 16, located along Bedok South Road

The Bedok South Hawker Centre in Block 16

The Bedok South Hawker Centre is located directly infront of Temasek Junior College

The stall in the Bedok South Hawker Centre in Block 16 is "JAPANESE HOUSE" serving Japanese food

Salmon

We had lunch in the Bedok South Hawker Centre, patronising this Japanese food stall called "Japanese House". The food is average but not cheap compared with other Japanese food stalls in other hawker centres.

Singapore Hawker Food : Mee Pok

2008-12-20T00:06:00.000-08:00

The Mee Pok Stall is located in the coffee shop at the junction of Jalan Tua Kong and Upper East Road.

The Coffee Shop where the Mee Pok stall is located

The Mee Pok Stall

The Mee Pok

The Mee Pok in this hawker stall used to be very famous but in this visit, we found it to be just average. The crowd was still there but the original hawker was not there anymore.

The "Square Restaurant" in Singapore Novotel Hotel

2008-12-19T00:02:00.000-08:00

The SQUARE Restaurant

The Square in Novotel Hotel in Singapore

Interior View of the Restaurant

Salad

Satay & Japanese sushi

Local Rojak

Local Laksa

We had an international buffet lunch in the SQUARE Restaurant in Novotel Hotel, Singapore. There were many varieties of food, from Japanese sushi to local laksa, satay and rojak. There were many dishes to choose from including chicken rice as well with many desserts and fruits. The food was good.We were given compliment of red wine as well after showing them the SMS in our handphones.

Snapshots of Flowers

2008-12-18T00:03:00.000-08:00

Some snapshots of flowers for your viewing pleasure.

Visited an Orchid Nursery in Singapore

2008-12-17T00:02:00.000-08:00

Visited an Orchid Nursery and took some snapshots of beautiful Orchids to share with you. Enjoy viewing.

Roadside Vegetables Market in Ranau, Mount Kinabalu

2008-12-16T00:02:00.000-08:00

Roadside Vegetable Market in Ranau

All types of local vegetables

Flowers plants for sale

Mushrooms

We stopped at the roadside market. Most tourists patronised the Fruits Market stalls while directly opposite across the road is the Vegetables Market where only locals are seen.

The vegetables are grown by the farmers in the area. The produces looked very fresh. As the climate up in the mountain is good for vegetables growing, the vegetables seemed to be big in size as well.

Roadside Fruits Market in Ranau, Mount Kinabalu

2008-12-15T00:02:00.000-08:00

Roadside Fruits Market

Crowded with tourists

King of the fruits, DURIAN

On our way back to Kota Kinabalu, our bus stopped at a roadside fruits market in Renau. The place was crowded with locals as well as tourists. There are many fruits on sale including the king of fruits, the durians.

Poring Hot Springs in Kinabalu National Park

2008-12-14T00:01:00.000-08:00

Poring Hot Spring

Map of the Hot Springs area

The Hot Springs baths

The Hot Springs

The Poring Hot Springs, located 40km from the Kinabalu National Parks's Headquarters, has open-air hot sulphur baths set amidst a landscaped garden.

Canopy Walkway in Kinabalu Park

2008-12-13T00:04:00.000-08:00

Postcard of the Canopy Walkway

Canopy Walkway

Notice by Sabah Park

Pondok Manggas ( Station)

Canopy Walkway is a canopy of the Menggaris Tree - the king of the tree. (Tallest, Strongest and Sturdiest tree in the Kinabalu National Park, Malaysia's 1st World Heritage Site.

We had to trek through the rainforest for one hour to get up to the Canopy Walkway. We were thrilled to witness life in the treetops as we walked along the 100ft high Canopy Walkway. It was quite an experience in going through the 5 stations and trekked back to the Poring Hot Spring area.

Rafflesia - Largest Flowers in the World

2008-12-12T00:02:00.000-08:00

Postcard of Rafflesia

The Rafflesia was blooming in Kg Poring RANAU

Photograph of the Rafflesia

Advertisement on the roadside

The hut is where you pay RM30 each before you can go into the forest with their guide

Deep into the rainforest

The two Rafflesia from a distance

Two Rafflesia flowers blooming

We were lucky that our tour guide managed to find the Rafflesia which was blooming in the rainforest. We had to trek deep into the rainforest for 5 minutes to see the blooming RAFFLESIA, the world largest flower in Kinabalu Park area, Kampong Poring Ranau. We had to pay RM30 each to go with the guide to see and take some photographs to share with you.

There is a foul smell coming from the flowers but the misty air in the rainforest neutralised it. Overall, it was quite an experience to see the World largest Flower, the Rafflesia.