Travel – From Emily To You

1. Tropical Spice Garden, Penang

Dubbed Asia’s Hidden Eden, Penang’s Tropical Spice Garden in Teluk Bahang, is spread across eight acres of secondary jungle, of which 4.5 acres are open to the public.

2. Tropical Spice Garden, Penang

3. pond

Celebrating its 12th year anniversary in 2015, Tropical Spice Garden remains a top tourist destination in Penang. This privately funded agro-tourism project is endorsed by the Penang State Government.

4. pathway to the Spice Terraces and Heart of the Garden

5. rocky wall

The garden, with its herbs and spices alongside lush flora and fauna, is part natural, part man-made. It is Southeast Asia’s only award-winning spice garden.

6. torch ginger – used in the logo of Tropical Spice Garden

7. our guide explaining the history of spices

Garden trails lead visitors through tropical rainforest of foliage, past terraces of exotic spices and herbs from around the world.

8. some of the plants

9. directions to different parts of the garden

To assist visitors in getting the most information about Tropical Spice Garden with its fascinating history and stories behind the various plants, audio tours are available. The express tour requires 45 minutes wheareas the regular tour would probably require an extra hour.

10. Malay Pygmy Bamboo – world’s smallest bamboo

11. mini waterfall

Paths are clearly marked and exhibits neatly labelled with numbers. When matched with the audio tour map, one could easily identify them. In fact, Tropical Spice Garden is home to more than 500 living specimens, with special emphasis on herbs and spices.

12. foot reflexology path

13. a blooming iron tree

Night time is a different world at Tropical Spice Garden. offering Night Walks every second and fourth Saturday of the month from 8pm to 10pm, advanced booking is required. Charges are RM80 per adult and RM60 per child, inclusive of the use of torchlight. Refreshment is provided.

14. ylang ylang

15. art installation named Syzygy using mainly tree branches by Australian artist Tim Cracker in conjunction with the 10th anniversary of Tropical Spice Garden in 2013

Tropical Spice Garden also offers Penang’s first and premier cooking school. The purpose-built cookery school boasts individual custom-made workstations. Classes are limited to ten pax per session.

16. children’s play area

17. Tropical Spice Garden Gift Shop

The garden is also an ideal venue for themed parties, weddings, team-building and other private functions.

Admission fees:
Garden Audio Tour (in English, Arabic, Mandarin, Japanese, Malay, German or French)
Adult: RM26
Senior Citizens (60 years old and above): RM20
Children (5 – 12 years old): RM15
Students: RM20

Live Guided Tour
Time: 9am, 11.30am, 1.30pm & 3.30pm
Language: English, Arabic, Mandarin, Malay
Adult: RM35
Senior Citizens (60 years old and above): RM28
Children (5 – 12 years old): RM20
Students: RM28

Visiting hours: 9am – 6pm daily. Last admission is at 5.15pm.

Tropical Spice Garden
Add: Lone Crag Villa, Lot 595 Mukim 2, Jalan Teluk Bahang, 11050 Penang, Malaysia.
Tel: +604-8811797
Fax: +604-8813794
Email: reservations@tropicalspicegarden.com
Web: www.tropicalspicegarden.com

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1. Jeruk Madu Pak Ali

The honey pickles produced by Pak Ali Food Industries Sdn. Bhd. are snacks that are difficult to resist.

2. shopping for pickles

Anyone who passes by Simpang Ampat in Seberang Perai Selatan will surely purchase bags of pickles of different varieties for family and friends back home, besides for self-indulgence.

3. shopping for pickles

In addition to the famed honey pickles of at least twelve different types of fruits, without taking into account seasonal fruits, Pak Ali also produces a good range of traditional Malay snacks, fruit juices and sauces.

4. cutting

A third-generation family business which began with a honey pickle secret recipe handed down by its founder, Ali Omar, since its establishment in 1985 as a cottage industry, the business has seen rapid growth, and will be moving to its third production facility soon.

5. area where salt is removed from the fruits

This third plant in nearby Perda Tasek is a 84,000 sq. ft. facility with an investment of RM2.5 million. With this new plant, production is set to increase to 3,000 metric tonnes a year from the current 2,000 metric tonnes. Workforce will also increase from the present 85 to 150. And to think that it all began with a workforce of 3!

6. in the process of removing salt from the fruits – requires two days

The process of peeling and cutting up the fruits according to size requires 35 people daily. They each have to cut at least 150kg of fruits a day. That’s a lot of work, don’t you think so?

7. stockpile of sugar

During a recent visit to Pak Ali’s factory, we were taken on a tour to witness for ourselves the production process of honey pickles.

8. final check

Upon receiving the fresh raw fruits from suppliers, the fruits are graded and then pickled, from two to seven days. The fruits are then cut according to size, and soaked for two days.

9. packing

And then begins the process of preservation with a mixture of sugar, honey and apple cider vinegar. These pickled fruits are ready to be served after 24 hours.

10. mixing the peneram dough

Pickled fruits can be kept for at least three months from the point of preservation.

11. shaping peneram before they are fried

Pak Ali Food Industries Sdn. Bhd.
Add: Lot 420, 421, 652 – 655, Kawasan Perindustrian Perda Tasek, 14120 Simpang Ampat, Seberang Perai Selatan, Pulau Pinang.
Tel: +604-5883781
Fax: +604-5883781
Email: pakalifood@gmail.com

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1. Chef Karim begins his demonstration on how to cook nasi lemuni

During a recent media familiarisation trip to Penang at the invitation of Gaya Travel Magazine and Tourism Malaysia Penang, we made a lunch stop at Jawi House Café Gallery, a quaint restaurant along Armenian Street in Georgetown.

2. the ingredients

Jawi House Café Gallery serves authentic Jawi Peranakan (Straits Muslim) cuisine, with a gallery on the upper floor that showcases Penang-style Jawi Peranakan sub-culture and art.

3. daun lemuni

It was my second visit to the restaurant and I had the priviledge to witness for myself the prepartion of nasi lemuni (rice), the staple food of the Straits Muslim community.

4. preparing the ingredients

This traditional beauty food is healthy and best taken by women who are in confinement. Yes, it prevents bloating, nourishes the body and restores vitality.

5. cooking the rice in the cooker

Lemuni (scientific name: Vitex trifolia) leaves are first blended and then added to the rice at one cup to a spoonful of leaves.

6. nasi lemuni

According to Chef Nurilkarim, who manages Jawi House Café Gallery, the type of rice used to cook nasi lemuni is “basmati rice”. The rice, after a quick rinse, is to be soaked for 20 minutes before it is placed into the rice cooker.

7. nasi lemuni is served with chicken rendang

Other ingredients are garlic, onions, ginger, lemongrass, oil, water, salt, cinnamon and other spices (secret). Coconut milk or ghee is also added into the mix. Obviously, they both produce a different outcome to the rice.

8. enjoying a meal among friends

The above mixture is poured into the rice cooker and then boiled as we normally would boil our rice. Once it is cooked, the blue juice from the clitoria flower (bunga telang) is added to the pot to give it the blue colouring that we have come to expect from nasi lemuni.

9. dessert

Nasi lemuni is best served with chicken rendang! Just what we had for lunch that day.

Jawi House Café Gallery
Add: 85, Armenian Street, 10200 George Town, Penang.
Tel: +604-261 3680 (call for dining reservations)
Web: www.jawihouse.com
Email: info@jawihouse.com

Opening hours: 10am – 7pm daily, except Sundays

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1. Little Children Riding a Bicycle by Ernest Zacharevic along Lebuh Armenian

The explosive street art scene first in Georgetown, Penang, then spread to the rest of Malaysia and even Singapore, could be attributed single-handedly to Lithuanian artist, Ernest Zacharevic.

2. Stre-etch by Ernest Zacharevic opposite Khoo Kongsi

3. I Want Pau wall mural by WK Setor

When I was a kid, a visit to Penang was deemed incomplete if we did not visit KOMTAR. These days, it is not complete if we did not pose for a photo with the “Little Children Riding a Bicycle” wall mural by Ernest, the most popular piece out of the many by him.

4. Skippy, the huge ginger cat

5. Love Me Like Your Fortune Cat

Ernest came into the scene when he was commissioned to paint a number of murals to promote Georgetown and Penang during the 2012 George Town Festival.

6. random wall art

7. Lion Dance at the frontage of I-Box Museum of Glass

His project, named Mirrors of George Town, saw him complete at least ten murals on the walls of dilapidated buildings in and around Georgetown, giving them a new breath of life.

8. Cultural Girls on the side wall of I-Box Museum of Glass

9. art at Chew Jetty

In today’s post, I am sharing public murals and wire art that I spotted while out and about in Penang during a recent trip to the island at the invitation of Gaya Travel Magazine and Tourism Malaysia Penang.

10. magic show

11. wire art (Cannon Hole) on Lebuh Cannon

As you can see, since the first street art piece by Ernest, many artists have hopped on the bandwagon, and they are no less capable, I must say!

12. wire art (Procession) on Lebuh Armenian

13. wire art (Then & Now) on Lebuh Armenian

To date, there are tens of beautiful and memorable street art that tell the story of each particular area or community in Penang. To spot them all, grab yourself a free copy of “Marking George Town” brochure published by Penang State Tourism Development & Cultural Office and Penang Global Tourism.

14. wire art (Too Salty) on Jalan Green Hall

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On 7th July 2008, Malacca and Georgetown (Penang) were both awarded the World Heritage Site title under the category of Cultural Heritage by the UNESCO World Heritage Committee.

Penang Bridge

They were jointly recognised as the “Historic Cities of the Straits of Malacca” for their living multicultural heritage communities and architectural treasures.

Since then, Georgetown, similar to Malacca, is highly commercialised and there have been even more Points of Interest being established. A visit to Georgetown, and Penang as a whole, can be quite costly for a family.

And so, in this post, I have drawn up a number of attractions to check out, at zero cost to the visitor. This list was compiled with the help of Mr. Logi (Tourism Malaysia Penang Senior Tourism Officer) and Ms. Angeline Chen (Penang Hop-On Hop-Off Sales & Marketing Manager).

This list is arranged in no particular order and is updated accordingly.

TURN TO PAGE 2 for No. 1…

1. the God of Prosperity and two YOU Wings air stewardesses arrive at the YOU Wings HQ in Ipoh

Spreading happiness and prosperity, YOU Wings, the operational partner of Sriwijaya Airlines, which currently serves direct flights from Ipoh to Medan, organised a fun-filled event in ipoh city on two days recently, in conjunction with the Chinese New Year celebrations.

2. at YOU Wings HQ

Aptly themed “HUAT with YOU”, the God of Prosperity, accompanied by two lovely YOU Wings/Sriwijaya Air stewardesses dropped by at selected locations and offices, further spreading the festive cheer.

3. at EPF Office @ Greentown

Members of the public were all smiles to receive special Lucky Greet Packs, courtesy of YOU Wings and sponsors.

4. at Income Tax Office (LHDN)

To their surprise, some lucky ones even received free return air tickets to Medan from ipoh, discount vouchers and more!

5. at Restoran Foh San

A total of 13 locations were visited over two days, from morning till evening.

6. at Nanyang Siang Pau Office

Among the landmarks were government offices, popular eateries, hotels and also transportation hubs of Ipoh Railways Station and Terminal Amanjaya.

7. at GP Foodcourt @ Bercham

Phew! What a busy time it was for the God of Prosperity and the YOU Wings crew!

8. at Casuarina @ Meru Hotel

Due to overwhelming response from the public, a total of ten return air-tickets to Medan were given away. Don’t we wish we were one of the winners?

9. winners of a return flight ticket on YOU Wings to Medan

In concurrence with this visit around the city, social media buffs also had the chance to win return air-tickets, stays at 5-star hotels and passes to Sunway Lagoon theme park. If you were one of the participants, then all the best to you!!

10. at Terminal Amanjaya

*All photos courtesy of YOU Wings.

Event: YOU Wings “HUAT With YOU” Event
Venue: Ipoh
Date: 11th & 13th Feb, 2015
Time: from 9am

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1. a dinosaur with Rockhaven as backdrop

Anyone who enters BEST WESTERN PREMIER The Haven Ipoh for the first time is usually caught by surprise at the “hidden” paradise of nature, just a stone’s throw away from Ipoh city centre.

2. Rockhaven shot from the other side

3. the three towers of The Haven beside Rockhaven

Spending time within the grounds of The Haven, one could easily forget that he is in Ipoh. Who would have thought that this city could be so picturesque?

4. surrounded by Mother Nature

5. jogging track

Some would think that they are in Phuket, Thailand or even Guangxi Province in China. That’s because the tower karst hills at The Haven are a rare geological feature that are only found in a handful of sites in Southeast Asia, besides the Kinta Valley!

6. jogging track

7. the natural environment of The Haven is well-maintained

Yes, you got that right. Phuket, Guangxi Province and Halong Bay in Vietnam are similarly dominated by wet tropical/equatorial climates.

8. much of the original landscape of The Haven has been preserved

9. Rockhaven

The rock formations at The Haven are said to be from the Permian Period. According to Prof. Dr. Bernard Pierson, Shell Chair in Petroleum Geosciences’ University Technology Petronas, the limestone hills that surround The Haven were deposited 280 million years ago.

10. check out the greenery

11. seahorse-shaped swimming pool

With Rockhaven as the central attraction, one is hard-pressed to look for a finer eco-resort of its class in Malaysia.

12. walking path

13. walking path

The development site of The Haven is 13.6 acres, and then there is a lake surface of 4 acres. An additional ten acres are forested, hilly terrain.

14. Outdoor Amphitheatre

15. the stream

As you can see from my photos, more than 80% of the entire resort is natural, left untouched by development. The limestone hills will continue to be there for millions of years.

16. one of the butterflies I caught on camera

17. the road leading to The Haven

Is it any wonder that when people say they are taking a holiday at The Haven, they are just spending time at the resort and don’t feel the need to pack their vacation time with a thousand and one activities?

18. in front of Tower Banyan

Book your stay now at:
BEST WESTERN PREMIER The Haven Ipoh
Add: Jalan Haven (Persiaran Lembah Perpaduan), 31150 Tambun, Ipoh, Perak, Malaysia.
GPS Coordinates: N 04° 38.167′ E101° 9.684′

Email: reservations@bestwesternhaven.com.my
Web: Best Western Haven | The Haven Resorts
Tel: +605 220 9000
Fax: +605 220 9011
Hotline: 1700.8.1700.0

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1. Golden Roof Hotel, Ipoh

Having travelled far and wide, well, at least within Malaysia, I always believe that the best vacation, in the true sense of the word, is near home, where travelling time is negligible. When you don’t have to fight with traffic, and don’t feel the need to line up a host of activities or places to visit because you know the town like the back of your hand, that’s the best time to rest and relax.

2. hotel lobby

3. reception counter

Yesterday saw my family checking in to Golden Roof Hotel in Ipoh to its Family Suite. It was Monday, an off-peak day – just the quiet time that we crave after the hectic Chinese New Year season.

4. oil paintings adorn the walls of the hotel

5. plenty of space outside the rooms

Golden Roof Hotel in Ipoh spots the striking colours of black and gold. Although this hotel had its soft launch on Christmas Day of 2013, it is still a work in progress, especially its roof. Plans for it have yet to be unveiled.

6. Family Suite living room

7. space of the Family Suite

With 77 rooms spread over three floors, there are seven room categories, all of which are spacious, even its lowest room category. Perhaps they seem so because they are sparsely furnished. Nevertheless, they are comfortable enough, and anything that is not already provided in the room could be requested at the reception counter or from the housekeeper.

8. L-shaped sofa

9. Family Suite Queen bed

In-room amenities include LED TV with satellite channels, complimentary WiFi internet access, individually controlled air-conditioning and clothes hangers. Ironing facilities are available on the second floor. Guests who do take the trouble to iron their clothes will find it quite odd that they have to do it outside of their room.

10. Family Suite bedroom with two single beds

11. Family Suite bedroom with two single beds (room has two doors for convenience, one on each side of the room)

What I really like about Golden Roof Hotel, which I have yet to come across in any hotel in Malaysia, is the complimentary water dispenser with hot and cold function on all three floors of the hotel. Singapore’s BIG Hotel offers this and it is just awesome. Imagine saving all those money spent on buying mineral water!

12. Family Suite entrance

13. Family Suite bathroom

In terms of facilities, Golden Roof Hotel only has one meeting room that fits about 12 – 15 pax. Provided as part of the meeting package are a projector, speaker, bottled mineral water and stationery upon request. Of course, guests also enjoy 24-hour security and private car park.

14. Superior Suite (King)

15. Deluxe Suite (1 Queen + 1 Single)

As the hotel continues to improve, the management is currently engaging with a few businesses within the Ampang Baru Business Center for a tie-up for the benefit of guests. At this point in time, under discussion is Maximus Maniac Gym & Fitness Center and laundrette service for long staying guests.

16. Deluxe Queen Room

17. Double Queen Room

Personally, it matters not that a hotel doesn’t have a fitness gym or swimming pool. What I look for in a real vacation are massage services and here at Golden Roof Hotel in Ipoh, you can find a Cabanas outlet within the hotel itself!

18. Superior Single (2 Singles)

19. ironing facilities

If you are not aware, Cabanas Reflexology & Massage Centre which has a total of three outlets in Ipoh, offers a comprehensive range of massages for body and feet, as well as health treatments such as slimming, firming, whitening, hydrating, cupping, scrapping, and ear candling.

20. meeting room

21. Cabanas Reflexology & Massage Centre

Until further notice, guests who spend a minimum of RM100 at the hotel will receive a voucher for complimentary foot massage for 45 minutes, valid at Cabanas in Golden Roof Hotel, Ipoh. Add RM5 to extend the foot massage by 15 minutes and RM20 for an additional 45 minutes.

22. single room for massage

23. large foot reflexology room that can accommodate six clients

Other on-going promotions at the Golden Roof Hotel, Ipoh, are:

1) Upon check-in, guests automatically receive discount vouchers for Lost World of Tambun, Volcano Grill Café (a neighbouring F&B outlet) and car wash service nearby;

2) Spend a minimum of RM500 at the hotel and receive a voucher for one night’s stay at a Deluxe Queen Room, valid for two months from the date of issue, redeemable at either Golden Roof Hotel in Ipoh or Taiping.

Golden Roof Hotel Ipoh
Add: 2, Jalan Ampang 6A, Pusat Perdagangan Ampang Baru, 31350 Ipoh, Perak.
GPS Coordinates: N 04° 35.100′ E101° 07.520′

Web: www.goldenroofhotel.com
Email: enquire@goldenroofhotel.com
Reservation hotline: +605-3128588

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Brazilian Fern Tree

If you love botany, I am sure you are one of those who would pay good money to visit botanical parks and herb gardens.

Golden Flamboyante

Serdang Daun Besar

Although I am not well-versed in flora and fauna, I do know how to admire a beautiful bloom. Thus, I have visited my fair share of parks and gardens wherever I travel to. One thing about these parks is that they are usually located quite far from city centre, and it could be a hassle if you are new to the place and worse, do not have your own transport.

Red Button Ginger

Cats Whiskers

Did you know that if you were to take a vacation at BEST WESTERN PREMIER The Haven Ipoh, you would be able to enjoy your very own botanical garden at your doorstep?

Giant Elephant Ear

Broad-Leaved Carpet Grass

From my leisurely stroll around the well-landscaped grounds of The Haven one morning, I spotted more than twenty different species of plants and flowers, all of which are neatly labelled with information such as their name, origin and description.

Lady Palm

Cempaka Kedah

Believe me, there are way more than these, and if you wonder if they have been correctly tagged, worry not as Dr. Francis Ng, D.Phil (Oxford) was engaged to identify them.

Frangipani

Pink Water Lily

According to Dr. Francis, the limestone hills of Kinta Valley are home to many unique plants and they are well-represented at The Haven. What I am sharing today is just a small sample of what’s actually found at the property.

Torch Ginger

Jelutong Tree

Dr. Francis also found the “Hairy Hibiscus”, still not seen elsewhere – a flowering plant so rare that its origin and identity have yet to be determined.

African Tulip Tree

Lobster Claw Flower

And then there is the endangered Langkawi cycad, believed to have been the food for dinosaurs. At The Haven, they are found clinging to steep rock faces.

Black Rosewood Tree

Bush Latana

Just as it is almost impossible to share all the photos of flora and fauna available at The Haven, it is similarly difficult to list out ALL the names of plants and flowers found here. There are just too many.

Ferns

Bougainvillea

Didn’t I tell you that you would be able to enjoy your very own blooming garden during your stay at The Haven, without having to make your way (and pay an admission fee) to a botanical park or flower garden?

Email: reservations@bestwesternhaven.com.my
Web: Best Western Haven | The Haven Resorts
Tel: +605 220 9000
Fax: +605 220 9011
Hotline: 1700.8.1700.0

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Players in the tourism industry got together to offer some of the best travel deals to vacation seekers, the final opportunity to grab attractive travel deals before the Malaysian Goods and Services Tax (GST) is implemented this April 1st.

1. your dream cruise vacation awaits

MATTA Fair Perak is just one of the travel fairs organised by the Malaysian Association of Tour & Travel Agents (MATTA) simultaneously in selected cities across the country. Over at the other side of town, also held over these three days is a similar nationwide exposition, known as MITM Travel Fair organised by the Malaysian Chinese Tourism Association.

2. Adeline Khan of The Banjaran Hotsprings Retreat promoting essential oils especially concocted for their spa

While I had no plans to search for attractive vacation packages, I was glad to have visited this edition of MATTA Fair Perak as I was able to buy cheap travel insurance from City Life underwritten by QBE Insurance, for my upcoming trip to China at only RM5 per day.

3. Impiana Hotel Ipoh

Most of the exhibitors are regulars at these travel fairs. Impiana Hotel Ipoh is here with four exciting offers. They are:

1) Room promotion: Standard room for two at RM98 nett per night, excluding breakfast (normal rate: RM220 nett inclusive of breakfast for two)
2) Weekend Hi-Tea at RM20 nett each (normal price: RM32 nett) – valid until 31st May, 2015
3) BBQ buffet dinner at RM30 nett each (normal price: RM58 nett) – valid until 31st May, 2015
4) Ramadhan buffet promotion at RM50 nett each (normal price: RM80 nett) – valid during the month of Ramadhan 2015

4. Keris Travel

Meanwhile, Kinta Riverfront Hotel’s Palong Coffee House is also running a promotion.

1) Buffet lunch at RM25 each (normal price: RM40)*
2) Buffet dinner at RM30 each (normal price: RM45)*

*buy four vouchers and receive one more for free

5. promoting attractions in Perak

A new exhibitor that I spotted is Easturia Vacation Club, who came all the way from Kuching, Sarawak. The staff have just completed their presentation and ran out of brochures when I arrived but checking their website, from what I understood, this is a vacation where we pay a lump sum of $$ annually and then travel at a discounted rate during the year our membership is valid.

6. staff from Easturia Vacation Club

Shoppers are also eligible to partake in a lucky draw where interesting prizes are given away, such as a cruise vacation for two on Star Cruises, air tickets sponsored by Thai Airways International, YOU Wings and Firefly, personal electronics, home appliances, and more.

Event: MATTA Fair Perak 2015
Venue: Ipoh Parade, Ipoh
Date: 13th – 15th March, 2015
Time: 10am – 10pm

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Having seen how popular Ernest Zacharevic’s works of street art are in Ipoh and Penang, I seized the opportunity to track down his work while I was in Singapore recently.

Ernest Zacharevic’s art are found in three different areas of Singapore, but since the city-state is not geographically large, all of these places are easily accessible via the MRT or public bus and then a bit of foot exercise.

Ernest Zacharevic Street Art Singapore locations

1. fishing for money at Perak Hotel, Little India

The easiest to find is probably the one in Little India (North East MRT Line), therefore, this is a good starting point. The art of the boy fishing for a dollar note is just to the right of the Perak Hotel in Little India.

That’s about all you can see here because the two other pieces are in the guest rooms of the hotel, in Rooms 303 and 304.

2. jousting children at the intersection of Joo Chiat Terrace / Everitt Road

The next stop could to look for the jousting children at the intersection of Joo Chiat Terrace / Everitt Road. Take an MRT to Eunos Station (East West Line) and then walk along Still Road until you see the direction to Joo Chiat Terrace.

Follow that direction and continue walking along the road until you reach the junction that intersects Everitt Road, as you can see from my photo. If I am not mistaken, this painting is on the side wall of a residential house here.

3. girl caressing a sleeping lion cub

Lastly, the area to hunt for Ernest Zacharevic ‘s street art in Singapore is near Victoria Street. Take an MRT to Bugis Station (East West line / Downtown Line) and exit to Victoria Street.

The landmarks to look out for are Golden Landmark and Raffles Hospital. Head further away from the MRT station and you will come across firstly, a girl caressing a sleeping lion cub, which is on the side wall of a residential house on Jalan Pisang.

4. kids somersaulting from cardboard boxes

Walk further on and you will come to a grey building of anc! asia (Jalan Kapla). Here, you will find the art of kids somersaulting from cardboard boxes at the peak of the building, and at the bottom of it, children in supermarket trolleys.

5. children in supermarket trolleys

Continue walking further down the road until you reach the junction of Victoria Street / Jalan Sultan, with Malabar Mosque on your right, opposite the road. At this office of Lightcraft, on the side wall is a painting of a kid peeping out of a window.

6. kid peeping out of a window

And there you have it. Are there more? If so, let me know.

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Little India in Singapore in the morning and at night are two entirely different worlds. At night, you do wonder if you really are in India, with the number of migrant workers milling around.

When I was visiting, the artworks at Little India are still so new, surveys were being taken from the general public.

In my opinion, whatever public art done here is wasted as most people here do not know how to appreciate them, or are too busy carrying on with their lives to notice.

1. buffalo wall mural at Little India MRT Exit E

But for art lovers, if you are planning to check them out, take a ride on the MRT to Little India Station on the North East Line (NE7 – purple) and take Exit E.

Greeting you at the top of Exit E is the colourful buffalo wall mural, an appropriate piece of art for the junction of the street named Buffalo Road.

2. video installation along Buffalo Road

Continue walking left from Exit E and you will see the video installations on the side walls of the blocks of shophouses adjacent to each other.

3. video installation along Buffalo Road

As these videos are projected onto the walls, it is the reason you can only see them at night.

4. sculpture installation along Belilios Lane

Nearby, along Belilios Lane is a sculpture installation. If it didn’t seem to carry a special message to me, imagine how the migrant workers knew how to appreciate it.

I believe that over time, more artworks will be installed in Little India, so these is just the beginning.

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1. at the Esplanade Station: Let the show begin... by Lim Mu Hue

Art in Transit is the largest public art programme by the Singapore government to celebrate local talent.

2. at the Promenade Station - Dreams in Social Cosmic Odyssey by Phunk Studio

With a budget of SGD5.9 million, the first project was the North East Line (purple), where we can now find art in all stations along this line.

3. at the Promenade Station - Dreams in Social Cosmic Odyssey by Phunk Studio

Following its success, the pogramme expanded to the Circle Line (yellow) but artworks are currently only available at selected stations.

4. at the Stadium Station - The Perfect Moment by Roy Zhang

In this post are Art in Transit found at the Circle Line (CCL) stations of Esplanade, Promenade, Stadium, Dakota and Paya Lebar.

5. at the Stadium Station - The Perfect Moment by Roy Zhang

All of these works were inspired by the area they are situated in. To know if a certain piece is included in the programme, there is usually a plaque on the wall nearby, which states the name of the art, artist(s) and a description.

6. at the Dakota Station - Little things, little stories by A Dose of Light

Compared to Art in Transit on the North East Line (NEL), these at Circle Line are easier to find, although just like those at the NEL, some require us to tap out of the barrier.

7. at the Dakota Station - Little things, little stories by A Dose of Light

And just like those at the first programme, there are artworks that are in two parts or more.

8. at the Paya Lebar Station - The Signs of Times by Salleh Japar

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Art in Transit North East Line MRT Singapore

1. NE1 - HarbourFront MRT Station - Part 1 of 2: Enigmatic Appearances by Ian Woo

The North East Line (purple) was the first MRT route that was adopted by the Singapore government to launch Art in Transit, the city-state’s largest public art programme to celebrate local artistic talent.

2. NE3 - Outram Park MRT Station - The Commuters by Teo Eng Seng

3. NE3 - Outram Park MRT Station - The Commuters by Teo Eng Seng

The second one was the Circle Line (yellow), and then there’s a new programme at Downtown Line (blue), although the programme along Downntown Line (DT) isn’t announced yet because the line itself will only fully complete in 2017. So far, SGD5.9 million has been spent.

4. NE3 - Outram Park MRT Station - Memories I (Opera Costume) by Wang Lu Sheng

5. NE3 - Outram Park MRT Station - Memories II (Mask) by Wang Lu Sheng

Unlike the Art in Transit artworks along the Circle Line, these ones at the North East Line MRT Stations are more difficult to spot, particularly those at interchange stations.

6. NE3 - Outram Park MRT Station - Memories III (Medallions) by Wang Lu Sheng

7. NE4 - Chinatown MRT Station - The Phoenix's-Eye Domain by Tan Swie Hian

They are also not so straightforward to find as some are split into numerous pieces, so you can imagine, they are all over the station.

8. NE4 - Chinatown MRT Station - part of the three sets of rhyming couplets in semi-cursive Chinese calligraphy on the floor of the station

9. NE5 - Clarke Quay MRT Station - The Reflections by Chua Ek Kay

Some stations have artworks outside of the barriers, which means that you have to tap out, and that would incur a fare on your MRT ticket.

10. NE5 - Clark Quay MRT Station - The Reflections by Chua Ek Kay

11. NE5 - Clark Quay MRT Station - The Reflections by Chua Ek Kay

It was fun tracking down these artworks, and reading the meanings behind them. I had a day-long MRT ticket, so I didn’t mind tapping in and out of the barriers.

12. NE5 - Clark Quay MRT Station - The Reflections by Chua Ek Kay

13. NE6 - Dhoby Ghaut MRT Station - Interchange by Milenko & Delia Prvacki

As with all art pieces commissioned for the Art in Transit programme, all are by Singaporean artists. Each one has a plaque by its side, stating the name of the piece, the name of the artist, as well as its definition.

14. NE6 - Dhoby Ghaut MRT Station - Interchange by Milenko & Delia Prvacki

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Jalinan Muhibah Media Perak Malaysia ke Beijing China 2015

1. the delegation from Perak, led by Datuk Akmar Hisham Mokhles (front row, sixth from left), takes an official photograph with Malaysian officers attached to the Malaysian Embassy in Beijing, China

Led by the Prime Minister’s Press Secretary, Datuk Akmar Hisham Mokhles, a delegation of media representatives under the Perak Media Sports and Welfare Club where Datuk Akmar is the adviser, and selected non-government organisations, undertook a challenging goodwill expedition to Beijing, China last week, in the wake of the first anniversary of the loss of Malaysia Airlines flight 370 (MH370).

2. dialogue session in progress at the Malaysian Embassy in Beijing, China, between media representatives from Perak, Malaysia and officials attached to the Embassy, and subsequently with media counterparts and Malaysian students in Beijing

The expedition was also in conjunction with the f40th anniversary of diplomatic ties between Malaysia and China. Therefore, members of the delegation had a serious mission to undertake as they acted as mini ambassadors, not only of Perak, but also Malaysia.

3. President of Kelab Sukan dan Kebajikan Media Perak (KSKMP) Wan Asrudi Wan Hasan presents a plaque of appreciation to military attaché to the Malaysian Embassy in Beijing, China, First Admiral Zualkafly Ahmad. Far left is Minister Counsellor Norzuhdy Mohammad Nordin.

Our first official stop was the Malaysian Embassy in Beijing, where a dialogue session was arranged with the military attaché First Admiral Zualkafly Ahmad and other heads of various agencies under the embassy. Ambassador H.E. Dato’ Zainuddin Yahya was busy and could only drop by for a short while to welcome this first media delegation to the embassy.

Speaking to reporters, First Admiral Zualkafly believed that the reason it was not as easy for the Chinese to come to terms with the MH370 tragedy was due to the one-child policy where some families have lost an entire generation.

However, he added that despite the incident, which caused a slew of controversies, diplomatic ties between the two countries are still as strong as ever. He said, “Kuala Lumpur-Beijing are celebrating forty years of diplomatic friendship this 31st May and our Prime Minister YAB Datuk Seri Najib is also scheduled to arrive to Beijing for the celebration.”

The dialogue session was also attended by local media representatives and Malaysian student associations in Beijing, to improve bilateral relationships between these fraternities.

4. group photo at the foot of the Great Wall of China

To symbolically show unity and support to all affected by the MH370 tragedy, the delegation climbed up the Great Wall of China, trekking approximately 3.7km uphill, and at the same time, distributing tourism brochures and flyers of Perak and Malaysia to tourists who were at the Great Wall that day.

5. promoting Perak and Malaysia as an ideal tourist destination through the distribution of flyers

6. promoting Perak and Malaysia as an ideal tourist destination through the distribution of flyers

7. at Tower 13, the peak of the Great Wall of China

It was a great platform to introduce Perak, as well as Malaysia, to a different group of travellers, many of whom have never heard of Malaysia before, despite the unfortunate incidents of MH370 and MH17 in 2014.

8. donating Al-Quran and Surah Yasin to the 1019 years old Niujie Mosque, the oldest mosque in Beijing

True to the media club’s objective to do charitable work whenever possible, during our 6D/5N trip in Beijing, we visited three mosques to hand over a total of 50 copies of Al-Quran and 600 copies of Surah Yasin, which were donated by Restoran Ali Maju Sdn. Bhd. The mosques were the oldest mosque in Beijing, Niujie at 1019 years, Nan Dou Ya and Fayuan.

9. donating Al-Quran and Surah Yasin to Nan Dou Ya Mosque

All in all, as a member of the delegation, I would say that it was a success, all thanks to the hardworking committee of the Perak Media Sports and Welfare Club and adviser Datuk Akmar Hisham Mokhles, as well as sponsorship from the various government agencies and private corporations such as Sunway Lost World of Tambun and Impiana Hotel Ipoh.

10. group photo in front of the Beijing National Stadium, also known as the Bird’s Nest

11. Vice President of Kelab Sukan dan Kebajikan Media Perak, L. Manimaran, hands over a gift from China to one of the sponsors, Dato’ Jawahar Ali (2nd from right), Founder and Chairman of Restoran Ali Maju Sdn. Bhd., while the club’s adviser Datuk Akmar Hisham Mokhles (left) and president Wan Asrudi Wan Hasan (right) look on

Photos by Emily2U & Abdul Rasid Lamak/Kelab Sukan dan Kebajikan Media Perak (KSKMP)

Event: Jalinan Muhibah Media Perak Malaysia ke Beijing, China 2015
Venue: Beijing, China
Date: 16th – 21st March, 2015

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1. Padang Restaurant, Beijing, China

Spotting a tropical garden concept, Padang Restaurant in Beijing which serves a mainly Indonesian cuisine, is believed to be the largest Indonesian restaurant outside of Indonesia.

2. ikan bakar colo colo

3. ayam goreng

Owned by a Chinese Muslim by the name of Yusuf Ma, the decoration of this Padang Restaurant was to the tune of ¥10 million, mostly imported from Indonesia.

4. bebek goreng

5. kangkung soya udang

Opened in December 8, 2012, located on the third floor of Shimao Department Store, this is Yusuf Ma’s first restaurant. He also owns a travel agency in Beijing.

6. sawi

7. sup kari ayam

In China, Indonesian restaurants are only available in Shanghai, Guangzhou and Beijing, and this is the only one in Beijing.

8. tahu telur goreng

9. fruit counter

Serving Indonesian and Chinese Muslim cuisine, obviously, it is certified Halal by the local religious affairs administration.

10. dining area

11. dining area

At Padang Restaurant, the dishes is as authentic as they could be because about 60% of ingredients are imported from Indonesia, as well as the chefs.

12. Malaysian corner

13. lizard wall décor

Due to its huge floor space at 2000sq. m., the restaurant has different sections for diners, including six VIP rooms. All in all, it can cater to at least 300 pax in total concurrently.

14. interior décor

15. decorated wall

Led by manager Mdm. Bi Hui Ling and 63 staff members, the restaurant has more than a hundred dishes on the menu.

16. floral arch

17. banquet hall

Two signature dishes are Ikan Bakar Colo Colo (¥158) and Rendang Lembu (¥118). As you can see, their prices are reasonable. Having dined here twice, I would say their prices are mid-range.

18. dias

19. one of the diners poses for a photo

Although the restaurant serves mainly walk-in diners who would order from the à la carte menu, they also cater to requests for buffet, with at least 50 pax.

20. Bukit Tinggi VIP Room

21. Padang Restaurant frontage

As an added service to customers, free parking is provided. Otherwise, it is ¥20 an hour. Parking, or generally, car ownership, is a costly affair in Beijing.

22. Padang Restaurant frontage

The banquet hall of the restaurant has an elaborate “pelamin Jawa” (Jawa-style dias) where guests can get dressed in traditional costumes and have photos taken.

Padang Restaurant
Add: 3rd Floor, Shimao Department Store, Gong Ti Bei Road, Sanlitun Bar Street Area, Chaoyang District, Beijing, China.
Email: padang88@sina.com
Tel: 010-64094988
Business hours: 10am – 10pm daily

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1. Rosedale Hotel & Suites Beijing, China

Said to be located in an elite area of Chao Yang District, in the eastern part of Beijing, Rosedale Hotel & Suites in Beijing, China, is a four-star business class hotel, rated four-star, although it does not feature a swimming pool.

2. lobby

3. Serenade Lounge

It is one of five hotels in the chain. The others are in Guangzhou, Hong Kong, Kowloon, and Shenyang, which is named Times Plaza Hotel instead.

4. Serenade Lounge

5. lift lobby

Within 15 to 20 minutes drive away are international business offices such as Beijing Lufthansa Center, Landmark Business Square and the China International Exhibition Center. Beijing Capital International Airport is also just a short drive away.

6. hand sanitiser

7. Cheena Fine Chinese Cuisine Restaurant

Surrounded by two serene parks, Si De and Lido, tthe area here is generally quiet at night but there are more than enough up-market F&B outlets opposite this hotel. It’s just a short walk across the road.

8. Cheena Fine Chinese Cuisine Restaurant

9. twin room

For guests who feel a little more adventurous, there are more businesses and other establishments behind the hotel. Coming out from the hotel, take a right turn and another right turn when you come to a junction.

There is a 24/7 convenience store just down the road. Coming out from Rosedale, turn left and cross the traffic lights to the other side of the road and continue to walk. The shop will be on your right.

10. work desk

11. washroom

Rooms here, although not fancy, are well-equipped, with complimentary broadband internet access, LCD TV, individually controlled air-conditioning/heating system, mini bar, refrigerator, safety box, hair dryer and tea & coffee making facilities. WiFi internet access is only available at public areas of the hotel, including Business Floors. Iron and ironing board can be requested for no additional fee.

12. curved corridor

Rosedale Hotel & Suites Beijing
Add: 8, Jiang Tai Road West, Chaoyang District, 100016 Beijing, China.
Tel: +86 10 5960 2288
Fax: +86 10 5960 2233

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1. at the foot of The Great Wall of China

It is said that if you have not been to The Great Wall of China, you have not been to China. As a UNESCO World Heritage Site, The Great Wall welcomes millions of tourists who attempt to climb up the wall to its peak.

2. The Great Wall of China

3. a photo that shows the big steps to climb

Listed as one of the Seven Wonders of the New World, The Great Wall, which was manually constructed some 2200 years ago, stretches 5800km. Today, while some parts of the Wall have been repaired and reinforced, some other parts are in disrepair.

4. Love Lock

5. Locks of Love

The Great Wall of China has various entry points. We took the one north of Beijing. This stretch of the wall, right up to the peak of Tower 13, has been extensively preserved to cater to tourists of all ages.

6. Nelson attempting the climb despite an injured knee

7. another route

Therefore, the steps are now even and there is a railing along the entire stretch of the wall, which means, it is no longer as difficult to climb up the wall as it was years ago. Still, anyone who visits the Great Wall of China have to take precautionary measures, especially those who are not so medically fit.

8. the other side of The Great Wall of China

9. various souvenir shops at the base of The Great Wall of China

For further information on the existence of the Great Wall of China, read this Wikipedia page.

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welcome dinner KCC1M Gaya Travel Magazine

1. artistes from The Royal Malaysian Navy based in Lumut, Perak perform the welcome dance

The delegates under the Kembara Cuti-Cuti 1Malaysia media familiarisation trip were given a warm welcome at the official dinner hosted at ibis Styles Hotel in Ipoh.

2. great entertainment

Entertainment throughout the evening was provided by artistes from The Royal Malaysian Navy, who came to Ipoh all the way from their naval base in Lumut, Perak.

3. performers come all the way from Lumut to Ipoh

The trip to Perak was to enable these delegates to familiarise themselves with various tourism products, either new or updated, which they could then disseminate to their respective readers or audience.

4. an 11-year-old delivers two songs

This third series to Discover Perak was organised by Gaya Travel Magazine in collaboration with Tourism Perak and Tourism Malaysia Perak.

5. media delegates enjoying their meal

On this particular 4D/3N excursion, delegates had the opportunity to check out Ipoh’s wall mural scene during their brief overnight stop at ibis Styles Hotel.

6. personnel from the Royal Malaysia Police (PDRM) and Malaysian Civil Defence Department (JPAM) with media friends

They also had the chance to experience for themselves the natural limestone wonder of Gua Tempurung prior to their arrival at Ipoh City. The following morning, the delegation left for Pangkor, where they spent a significant amount of time there to explore the pristine tropical island plus the lifestyle and traditional livelihood of its islanders.

7. presenting a token of appreciation to a sponsor (L)

These delegates also stopped at Taiping where they went on a Night Safari at Taiping Zoo and then witnessed the soft launch of Taiping Heritage Trail and tried out the new electric shuttle bus, before leaving for Kuala Lumpur where they dispersed. Till we meet again next!

8. Gaya Travel Magazine Managing Director Nuar Md. Diah (R) presents a token of appreciation to Puan Zuraida Md. Taib, Chief Executive Officer Tourism Perak (L)

Event: Official Welcome Dinner For Delegates of Kembara Cuti-Cuti 1Malaysia
Venue: ibis Styles, Ipoh
Date: 7th April, 2015
Time: 8pm

9. Gaya Travel Magazine Managing Director Nuar Md. Diah (R) presents a token of appreciation to Perak State Exco for Health, Tourism and Culture Y.B. Dato' Nolee Ashilin Mohd. Radzi (in purple)

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1. any function hosted at the Rooftop of The Haven will be a showstopper

One of the superior new features of BEST WESTERN PREMIER The Haven Ipoh that not many people know yet, but now you do, is their newly opened “Rooftop” that would be an awesome venue to host gala or annual dinner functions, or even cocktail parties.

2. THE view offered from Haven’s Rooftop

This Rooftop is actually situated directly above the Clubhouse, and it offers an amazing breathtaking panoramic view of the limestone hills and the lake of The Haven, two natural attractions that the resort is well-known for.

3. in the midst of setting up the Rooftop venue based on client’s request

Truly, an event hosted here, be it private or corporate, will be memorable for all guests, making it extra meaningful. Based on requests from clients, The Haven decorate the venue according to specific requirement and theme of the function.

4. one of the chefs mans the BBQ grill

The Rooftop can accommodate up to 350 pax for round table arrangement, or 300 pax if a stage (10ft X 12ft) is set up. Food is of course provided by The Haven’s very own capable kitchen crew. There are two options to choose from, international buffet dinner at RM75+* per pax or BBQ dinner at RM95+* per pax.

5. guests begin to fill the seats

For further information, contact:
BEST WESTERN PREMIER The Haven Ipoh
Add: Jalan Haven (Persiaran Lembah Perpaduan), 31150 Tambun, Ipoh, Perak, Malaysia.
GPS Coordinates: N 04° 38.167′ E101° 9.684′

Email: reservations@bestwesternhaven.com.my
Web: Best Western Haven | The Haven Resorts
Tel: +605 220 9000
Fax: +605 220 9011
Hotline: 1700.8.1700.0

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Tropical Spice Garden, Penang

A Taste of Pak Ali’s Honey Pickles

How To Cook Nasi Lemuni

Penang Street Art

Top 10 Things To Do In Penang For Free

YOU Wings “HUAT With YOU” – Spreading CNY Happiness

The Haven’s Natural Environment

Golden Roof Hotel, Ipoh

Colourful Blooms & Plants at The Haven

MATTA Fair Perak 2015

Ernest Zacharevic Street Art in Singapore

Art Walk Little India, Singapore

Art in Transit: Circle Line (Singapore)

Art in Transit: North East Line (NEL), Singapore

Perak Media Goodwill Expedition to Beijing, China

Padang Restaurant, Beijing, China

Rosedale Hotel & Suites Beijing, China

The Great Wall of China

Official Welcome Dinner For Delegates of Kembara Cuti-Cuti 1Malaysia

Premier Rooftop Venue With Breathtaking View at The Haven