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Jun

JUNE 15, 2013 : ONE OF OUR HAPPIEST SATURDAYS

Malacca Strait & George Town, Penang viewed from our little balcony last June 13, ’13, Thursday.

Two days before the Father’s Day weekend, Tina and I arrived home from our office, Gabby from school at late afternoon. We were all greeted by gusty winds and big waves from the Malacca Strait via our little balcony at our 11th floor apartment. Little did we know that scenes in Pulau Pinang were even worse as telecom tower, electric poles and numerous trees already fell to the streets in George Town, Penang. We sat and prayed together and tried to calm down Gabby who was too anxious of the sight and sound of seemingly impending storm. But for three 3 years of stay in this side of Malaysia, I know they don’t issue typhoon signals unlike in our country, The Philippines. And true enough what appeared to last as unfavorable weather for whole night, thankfully ended an hour or so. We were relieved.

The next day, we went to work again, and Gabby to school as usual with a sunshiny climate. The weather was confirmed to be Bipolar, perhaps, even Schizoid. Tina didn’t rely on her instincts but googled the weather forecast online. No threat or warning to spoil our plans for the weekend. We were again relieved.

Saturday came and we hopped on the bus at around 9AM, boarded the ferry at jetty in Penang Sentral and reached the island safely.

All smiles aboard the ferry from Butterworth to George Town.

It was almost 10AM and (thankfully) the sun was shining its brightest. We strolled from jetty in Weld Quay to Gat Lebuh Armenian simply to see two of the 11 (soon to be established) new sets of murals with cats as theme.

Cat mural #2 located at Gat Lebuh Armenian. How do you like it?

Finally, we met Skippy, the meow meow of the 11 cat murals in George Town. Have you seen a bigger cat mural than Skippy?

Skippy the cat and the black rodent mural located at Gat Lebuh Armenian.

After few touristy things, we strolled our way to catch the bus at Lebuh Chulia or Chulia Street. We passed by one of the remarkable heritage sites in George Town, the clan house or kongsi of Cheah family with its newly installed gates. It looks grand as ever!

Cheah Kongsi. Gates are open to welcome tourists at month-long George Town Festival 2013.

Rode the bus, got off Komtar and went up the 8th level of First Avenue Mall in George Town to buy movie tickets for afternoon screening. After which, we hurriedly went down and took the cab, despite the fact that our next destination can be reached by foot, we didn’t want to be late to our 11AM reservation to an eat-all-you-want-Asian restaurant in a mall that we’ve never been to.

Penang Times Square

With only lunch buffet at our initial game plan, we managed to make our weekend memorable again.

My love. My life.

Haven Delights, Penang Times Square

It’s our first time at Penang Times Square and apparently, first time to dine at Haven Delights. Before someone makes a conclusion that everything here’s far from reasonable, let me be defensive in stating that it was Tina’s idea to buy discount-vouchers from groupon.my when she saw online that Asian Buffet in Haven Delights was on promosi. We only paid RM 56 (USD 17.96) for the buffet meals good for 2, and didn’t pay anything for Gabby as per text message of the manager of Haven Delights when he apologized to something I chose not to write about. After all, the misunderstanding was already settled and our eat-all-you-want-lunch turned out better than expected.

Similar to its adjacent buffet restaurant, TAO that we already sampled from another branch, Haven Delights offers a spread that includes free flow of fruit juices and iced green tea. Other than that, the rest is served upon order from their buffet menu. Surprisingly, we noticed Haven Delight’s buffet menu has wide variety to choose from. The interiors and overall ambiance aren’t cheap, although I suggest for them to have a better choice of house music that must go with the buffet theme. Nonetheless, those red lanterns, and cozy lights aptly set the mood for Asian gastronomic experience. To be honest, it wasn’t the best buffet we’ve sampled but for its price, it was an absoulte steal for the three of us! Happy Father’s Day to me! Happy me!

It was also our very first time to purchase voucher at groupon.my and it was indeed a good buy! At least, our first impressions were all nice. Now, on to business. If you’ve been following this blog for quite some time now, you know that I have been keeping a love affair with Japanese. I like how creative their dishes are; I appreciate how Japanese cuisine provides both art and sustenance. So when Tina told me that the restaurant she chose via groupon.my in Penang features Japanese food among other Asian delights, I gave it a nod in no time!

This is the rundown of what we tried from the buffet menu… Drum roll, please!

Miso soup from the spread. Warm and nice.

Mussels No. 1 as they called it but to us, they’re Baked Mussels. Cheesy. We liked!

Szechuan Beef. Surprisingly tender, tasteful, everything’s right. Recommended!

Temaki. Soft Shelled Crab & California Hand Roll. Gabby and I shared these two; thumbs up!

Santen Sashimi. Sashimi, for as long as fresh, remains my favorite so I’m biased with this bowl.

Motoyaki Scallops. Another must-try, another personal favorite but size of scallops was a bit disappointing.

Salted Pepper Mantis. Go order this too at Haven Delights. Bite-sized goodness!

Orange Pork Chop. We frequently order the Crispy Lemon Chicken from a Chinese restaurant back home; this one reminded us of that.

My world revolves and rotates for Gabby & Tina.

Ebi Sushi, Salmon Sushi. Need I say more?

Mixed Tempura. There was no Ebi Tempura alone, so Gabby opted for the next best thing.

Haven Special Maki, Smoked Eel Roll. Improvement on the maki-making would make it better.

Eat, Pray, Love.

Lamb Teriyaki over Japanese Rice from the spread. Tina’s plate -she said this combo was fine.

Motoyaki Scallops, round two : 5 orders. Yum! Yummier if only they’re bigger.

Ebi Mango Sushi and other delightful things on our table.

Haven delights customers particularly during dinner could eat al fresco with the view of George Town’s streets and diversity. Case in point, the Catholic Church stands almost behind the Hindu Temple with no conflicts, whatsoever.

Penang, we’ll surely miss you one day! Thank you for everything!

One more shot, with the mighty, Komatar this time. It’s the tallest building in the island. Iconic, isn’t it?

Lunch buffet starts at 11:30PM with taking of the last orders from diners at 2PM. We finished past 1PM. Burp! Just when I thought we’re heading back to First Avenue Mall to watch the 2:45PM screening of the newest remake of Superman movie, Man of Steel, we saw another restaurant that was featured on groupon.my called, Full House.

Gabby wanted dessert while Tina and I were craving for our caffeine doses. We gave in. We tried Full House too, for the very first time.

FullHouse Restaurant, Penang Times Square

It’s not difficult to be charmed with the space, interiors and menu of FullHouse. It’s a lifestyle store that also sells T-shirts and some novelty items to match the incredibly dainty epicurean experience. We only had coffee and for Gabby, a serving of creme brulee but dining at Full House felt like so fresh and pleasant. I predict that we’ll drop again to sample entrees and other offerings soon.

Best thing that we do while waiting for orders : freeze the moments via photographs. And when the orders are served, take pictures again! It’s a habit hard to break. Can you blame Tina and I if the cups of our caffeine came with art?

Latte for me. RM8.90++ (USD 2.85++). The cute coffee art made me smile, the taste made me satisfied.

Cappuccino for Tina. RM 8.90++ (USD 2.85++). The blend passed Tina’s meticulous taste!

Creme Brulee RM 10.90++ (USD 3.50++) and Choco Blended RM 9.90++ (USD 3.17++) for Gabby.

We left Full House in Penang Times Square with wider smiles and happier tummies. We crossed the road and took a taxi cab again, in order not to be late at the 2:45PM screening of Man of Steel.

Man of Steel at First Avenue Mall

It has been several months since the three of us last watched a movie together, popcorn (and upcoming movie, Monster University’s) tumbler of Coke are a must!

Before and after the Man of Steel movie, Gabby made a statement to us by saying,

“Ben 10 is better than Superman; he got more powers!”

Oh well, he grew up with his breed of animated characters and fictional heroes on screen but seriously, we all enjoyed this action-packed Superman movie. The treatment to the story and twist was made contemporary different from the previous ones. I didn’t browse anything about it prior watching, so I was stunned to see Kevin Costner, Diane Lane, Amy Adams casted as support to Henry Cavill’s iconic role. I was in awe in every second of the movie. We literally finished our caramel popcorn which unusually happens in other movies. It was that entertaining!

What else can I say but I was happiest with my family that Saturday! I may not have everything but they’re my greatest blessings!

Till our next family bonding! Enjoy your celebrations, everyone!

*Haven Delights | No. 77-L1-34, Penang Times Square, Jalan Dato Keramat, 10150, Penang, My.

*FullHouse |No. 77-G-20-21,61-65, Penang Times Square, Jalan Dato Keramat, 10150, Penang, My.

*This is NOT a sponsored post.

Jun

NIGHT SAFARI SINGAPORE : I DIDN’T LIKE

By docgelo 6 Comments

There. The title of this blog post said it all. But bear in mind that I don’t have aversion to zoos or nocturnal animals; in fact, my wife, Tina and I usually enjoy accompanying our son, Gabby to a few zoos we’ve been to and we consider each trip informative and educational. Zoos and eco-parks apparently promote environmental awareness and appreciation, particularly among those who have no chance of going to a real safari or experience wildlife. Zoos, to us, is the next best thing.

While we liked River Safari Singapore which is located a stone’s throw away from Night Safari, we felt otherwise with the latter. I don’t mean to discourage anyone from going there to see those nocturnal zoologic creatures. Our experiences and perceptions of course, may vary. What I don’t favor might be your preference and vise versa. What matters to me is the fact that the experience killed my (family’s) curiosity and the conclusion I made after that perhaps, one visit to Night Safari Singapore for me and my family’s enough.

Thank you, iVenture card See Singapore Package!

Thank God we didn’t spend a cent for the admission fees as our visit was sponsored by iVenture Card that provided us complimentary 2-day See-Singapore-Unlimited-Pass. Despite the fact that we didn’t have much fun at Night Safari, the other attractions and theme parks included in the iVenture Card package appear to be more fascinating, engaging and interesting. Check out the list below :

Sourced from iventurecard.com. With a lot of choices of packages to choose from (1-day, 2-day, 3-day, 4-day or 5-day pass) and a volume of theme parks and attractions to go to, iVenture card really spells convenience and value for money!

Going to Night Safari from Ang Mo Kio MRT Station and taking Bus 138 to the gates itself of this theme park wasn’t an issue, although it took us around an hour and a half travel time, one way and another almost two hours for return. Directions on how to get there and the other details of iVenture Card, click THIS!

Why I didn’t like Night Safari

It’s not about the waiting time. I’ve been to Disneyland in Anaheim, Disneyland and Disney Sea in Tokyo, and of course, Hong Kong Disneyland where waiting time on the queue per ride is usually longer than 30 minutes. So that of Night Safari wasn’t an issue too.

And more than 30 minutes, Tina, Gabby and I boarded one of these trams finally!

I told myself silently, “Nocturnal adventure, here we come!” I took photos of my family here and there. However, my excitement plummeted after I heard the tour guide’s pleasant voice from the first tram prohibiting flash photography. Ugh oh. Frankly, I expected it. But what I wasn’t prepared of was the fact that during the 45-minute-tram-ride, the tram only slowed down where the featured nocturnal animals are and I personally felt that we didn’t have enough time to appreciate them. Obviously it’s dark and even if that the animals are under a few spotlights, we barely saw them unlike going to the usual zoo during the day (Too bad, we didn’t choose Singapore Zoo!). Yes, tourists can take a guided walking tour after the tram ride but as for us, we didn’t want to walk in the dark even if there’s a staff to accompany us and explain this and that.

What about the other shows and food available inside Night Safari? Are they as boring as the tram ride? Well, I can’t tell the show every weekend that we skipped called, Creatures of the Night. But we did watch that fire-dancing-fire-blowing acts while seated to fill our gastric pits with what we thought initially interesting safari menu. It was nothing new as we’ve seen far better performances in streets, circus acts and stages during fiestas and whatnot back home. Again, to each his own.

The participant from the audience gamely opened his mouth wide to eat fire.

Nah. The performers didn’t put fire on the volunteer’s mouth. The volunteer seemed to enjoy his moment. Good for him!

Schedules of this fire act were 6:30PM and 8:30PM, weekends. So after taking the tram ride for almost an hour, we went back near the entrance grounds, found a table to eat dinner and there were more fire blown here and there on stage, while we were waiting for our meals. Was it thrilling enough for my family to leave our table and seats and troop to the area near the stage? Not much. Thanks to the camera’s zooming capacity, Tina and I took turns in capturing some photos to share. Sorry, but even if we know the performers did exert efforts for the show, but the act looked nothing extraordinary.

These boys are on fayeeeeeeerrr!!! hahaha!

On the food department, Night Safari has variety, from Ben and Jerry’s Ice Cream, to a few more stalls to fill in the hungry tummies. We chose Bongo Feast but weren’t satisfied too. With mediocre tastes of what we sampled, prices were too steep in my vocabulary (the meals, fyi, weren’t complimentary).

Spring Chicken for Gabby SGD 14.90++

Bongo Beef Burger for me. SGD 14.90++

Fish and Chips for Tina. SGD 15.90++

Tina had coffee but when I asked for creamer or at least milk, Bongo Feast had none. They didn’t run out but they really don’t provide. We didn’t even order black coffee, for goodness’ sake. Oh my!

Have you been to Night Safari Singapore? Did you like it?

>><<

*While this is a sponsored blog post, the words are all mine unless quoted, and were never influenced by anyone.

*This family staycation in Singapore is made possible by :

iVenture Card Singapore | website : www.iventurecard.com

and ibis Hotel Singapore on Bencoolen | website : www.ibis.com

This post is a part of Singapore Blog Series : May 2013.

Jun

GEORGE TOWN FESTIVAL 2013 : TAKING OFF

By docgelo 6 Comments

Kite flying, like George Town Festival is for everyone to enjoy!

08 June 2013, Saturday, George Town, Penang. There could never be more appropriate way to make a grand celebration soar to the heaven but to take it literally to the skies! The idea of having drums and kite making and kite flying in an incredibly massive open field, in front of Penang’s Town Hall and City Hall called, Esplanade or Padang Kota Lama, was too perfect to call people across the lifespan to gather and celebrate the official opening ceremony of George Town Festival 2013. After all, everyone, regardless of age, ethnicity and economic status surely enjoys kites and kite flying!

Right after spending almost half day from lunch at Queensbay Mall, my family and I trooped to Esplanade to witness the GTF 2013 official opening, aptly called, Taking Off!

Town Hall, George Town, Penang, Malaysia. Photo taken July 7, 2013, Friday prior to I Musici Concert.

The night before the event, I was invited to watch I Musici Di Roma (Blog post HERE!) and before I went to the musical concert held at Diwan Sri Penang, I saw, for the first time, the larger than life art installation called, Theatre of Ships made for Penang by Indonesian artist, Joko Avianto. I was happy to bring Tina and Gabby there the following day.

Theatre of Ships. Larger than life installation. Inspiring!

Must have touristy shot!

Detail shot of Theatre of Ships. I heard more than 3500 bamboos were used to create this masterpiece!

The use of bamboos, in my opinion is a genius! This tallest of the grass species is known for being resilient at any weather, it can sway even with strongest winds and typhoons; bamboos are actually that symbolic! And to create a giant masterpiece out of it made everything even better!

I also liked the idea of involving kites as I think kites are symbolic too! Kites represent flights of many things! My family and I love kites and kite flying! My son and I flew a 5-ringgit-plastic-kite that we bought from Tesco supermarket in Penang and brought and flew it in Cenang Beach, Langkawi (Blog post HERE!). We even spent a Labor Day holiday back in 2011 in Kota Bahru, Kelantan, just to witness how moon kites, or Malaysia’s Wau Bulan are intricately made (Blog post HERE!)

We appreciated how Wau Bulan or Moon Kites are intricately made in no less than Kota Bahru, Kelantan in 2011.

It goes without saying we loved how GTF2013 opening ceremony was done.

Surprisingly, we saw a kite being flown from our country, the Philippines! Despite its simplicity and lack of striking and vibrant colors, it was one of the kites that soared highest against the wind that Saturday. ASEAN nations were invited to particpate in GTF 2013 opening ceremony

Best of all, families of various races and ages came together one afternoon under the sun and blue sky! It was a sight to behold!

There were many tents around Padang Kota Lama that were put up for hawker food stalls that offer affordable local and Western food. From Penang’s famous Assam Laksa, to other noodle dishes like my favorite, Char Koay Teow and Hokien Mee and others, Indian-Malaysian sweet barquillo-like Apom Manis, to Japanese sushi, Thailand’s coconut jelly inside coconut shells and Western’s pizza and ice cream. We sampled apom manis for the very first time and liked it (not on photos). While Gabby enjoyed a small pizza we bought for him, Tina and I savored bowls of warm and satisfyingly thick and rish Shark’s Fin Soup at 3 ringgit each. Delicious!

Shark fin’s soup from a hawker stall in Padang Kota Lama during the Taking Off event for GTF2013.

We went home with smiles on our faces and happy tummies!

>><<

For schedules of events in this month-long celebration of GTF2013 : www.georgetownfestival.com

*This is NOT a sponsored or commissioned post. Special thanks to Ms. Wanida of GTF2013. Stay tuned for features about GTF2013 on this blog!

Previous GTF on this blog includes :

Jun

JAPANESE DINNER + FRENCH DESSERTS IN SINGAPORE

By docgelo 8 Comments

A taste of Paris in Singapore at Antoinette.

25 May 2013, Saturday. Singapore. Perhaps of all the posts I made about food on this blog, this one’s the most satiating because it’s filled with gratitude; the dinner happened because of a humble appreciation and ended giving all of us a perpetual inspiration.

I already forgot the date and the specific blog post where I randomly featured one of our ordinary family day outs, one weekend in Pizza Hut; it must be in Prangin Mall branch in George Town, Penang. If you must know, Pizza Hut and KFC are two of my family’s ultimate favorites. KFC’s an almost default fast food choice for Tina and I, particularly on Fridays when we have 2-and-a-half-hour-lunch-break, because a branch is located a few minutes away from where we currently work. While Gabby’s always delighted at Pizza Hut’s all cheese pizza deluxe, sans toppings, made with cheesy lava stuffed crust the same way he loves KFC and its gravy.

The said unsponsored blog post was incidentally read the Culinary Manager of Pizza Hut, KFC and Taco Bell for Northeast and Southeast Asia who happens to be a fellow Filipino based in Singapore (Bravo for his achievements, Mabuhay for his humility!).

I only learned that Dennis read it when he personally sent his words of thanks for blogging about Pizza Hut via email (I hope he’s fine about mentioning his name without his surname, as he begged off not to be publicized on this blog – the reason why I didn’t include our group photos together with Filipino foodie-couple bloggers now based in Singapore, Fran and Paul). Frankly, comments of readers on my posts are one of the reasons that fuel me to blog, more so, if readers and loyal blog followers would take efforts in sending me an email; it’s like icing on the cake! It’s something petty to others but very fulfilling to me.

Fast forward to my 6th blog anniversary post last May 8th 2013 where I blogged that my family and I were invited by two sponsors to revisit Singapore, Dennis emailed me again, but this time to invite us for dinner as according to him, it’s his way of appreciating my blog post about their product. Initially, the invite sounded like too good to be true because gratitude nowadays is a rarity but his act of kindness and generosity proved my cynicism was wrong. More than his professional achievements (he’s also a dentist, btw), we perceived him as someone who always keeps everything in a low-key, totally opposite of the magnitude of his status. And for that, we were blessed to have met a new friend who’s so inspiring!

En route to our dinner, we saw an impressive Oriental mural at MRT Station, Tajong Pagar, Singapore.

He was even gracious to ask us of our food preferences and suggested choices of a Chinese, Japanese and French restaurants. We ended up with a simple but a happy and memorable dinner at Hakumai at International Plaza Building in Anson Road, and perfectly ended the night with sublime desserts in a very quintessential French dining place in Erskine Road, Antoinette.

Like authentic dining places in Japan, Hakumai’s entrance is humble and unassuming.

We reached the place few minutes earlier of our 7PM reserved dinner at Hakumai via a very quick ride at MRT from Bugis. Not long after, Dennis arrived, followed by our blogger friends -husband and wife, Paul and Fran Ang of www.frannywanny.com. The dinner was so casual, friendly and very welcoming! It was one of those nights you wish would happen again soon! It was that good!

私の家族 (my family) : Gabby and Tina

Hakumai’s appetizers : some tasteful salmon and blanched greens

Gabby’s dinner : his favorite, Ebi Tempura; less the battered chili

Hakumai Sushi Gozen. Tina’s beautiful bento came with 9 pcs of assorted Sushi, 4 pcs of Salmon Mentai Maki, Truffle Sauce Chawanmushi, Botan Jiru, Salad and Fruits, SGD 38++

Sashimi Gozen. My delicious choice was served with Mixed Sashimi, Tempura Moriawase, Hot Soba, Truffle Sauce Chawanmushi, Salad and Fruits, SGD 29.80++

Must have detail shot of my bento. Those sashimi were stunning! Fresh and tasteful.

Fran, Paul and our host, Dennis had varied choices as well that looked equally appetizing. I was personally awed by the fact Hakumai sources their fish for sashimi and sushi from no less than, Tsukiji Market in Tokyo. Not to forget that Hakumai’s Singaporean Chef Gary, Dennis’ good friend, really prepared everything so well! Needless to say, we had nothing but one of our best dinners to date.

We washed down everything with iced green tea and soda for Gabby. Then Dennis generously asked us to pick a flavor of sorbet each.

Sorbet from Hakumai. The hands-down-favorite was that tangy orange sorbet. I have no words to describe its uniquely unforgettable flavor!

After our dinner, Dennis took us to Antoinette for desserts. The place was small but the offerings were grand and divine!

Ma famille (my family) : Gabby and Tina at Antoinette

Le Macaron D’Antoinette.

“Antoinette : Milk chocolate earl grey tea ganache with raspberry confiture
Tahiti : Tahitian perfumed vanilla cream
Charlotte : Vanilla cream with strawberry coulis
Chloe : Citrus yogurt with yuzu
Britanny : Caramel with fleur de sel
Praline : Milk chocolate with crispy hazelnut biscuit
Pistachio : Pistachio cream with chopped pistachio
Rose : Rose petal cream
Violette : Violet flower cream
Sesame : Black sesame cream with toasted black and white sesame seed
Grand cru : Bitter dark chocolate
Passion : Milk chocolate passion fruit ganache” ~via www.antoinette.com.sg

What we sampled from Antoinette, courtesy of Dennis…

Macarons. Lavishly delicious!

I wish I got this dessert’s name. It looks so whimsical.

Kyoto. Green tea mascarpone mousse, chestnut cremeux, almond cremble, green tea finger sponge.

One of the richest chocolate slices I’ve tasted.

Antoinette. Milk chocolate mousse, infused with earl grey tea, chocolate biscuit, dark chocolate earl grey tea cremeux, raspberry coulis, earl grey tea crumble.

Hot Chocolate. We all had glasses of cold water while Gabby savored hot chocolate and Dennis his dose of caffeine.

Strawberyy Shortcake. Japanese shortcake sponge, kirsch syrup, fresh strawberries, creme chantilly.

We’re happy diners! Photo taken by Paul Ang, the better half of Fran. Thank you, Paul and Fran!

Words are not enough to thank Dennis. I am also pleased to introduce Tina and Gabby to Paul and Fran that night. It was really awesome! We hope to see them again in the near future! Thank you very much!

*This is NOT a sponsored post.

*Most photos on this post were taken by my lovely wife, Tina.

*Ingredients of what we sampled from Antoinette were sourced via www.antoinette.com.sg while that of Hakumai were taken from their menu.

This post is a part of Singapore Blog Series May 2013 :

Jun

INSPIRING SINGAPORE 05/24/2013

By docgelo 18 Comments

Memories of not so distant past. Singapore Food Trail, Singapore Flyer.

En route to board Singapore Flyer. Photo taken by my lovely wife, Tina.

Years before 2010, I never expected to experience Singapore, neither I thought I’d set foot on one of the most expensive cities until chance made it possible to go in and out of the Lion City a few times over with Tina and Gabby for holidays, because of its proximity (if that’s the proper term for 1 hour ride via plane or 9 hours via bus on a night trip) and accessibility to our current home (and work) base in Penang. We’re grateful for everything and appreciate all the lessons and memories we’ve collected, all the flavors we’ve tasted, even more thankful for the people we met within the past trips.

The Helix Bridge, patterned after DNA, viewed on board Singapore Flyer. May 24, 2013, Friday.

Singapore has been so inspiring!

Who would’ve thought that a small fishing village would become what it is today?

To see her from the top at 360 degrees for the second time was nothing short of wonderful!

It was drizzling when we boarded Singapore Flyer last 05/24/2013.

Isn’t that baby too cute to pass as Gabby’s little brother? hehehe!

We reached Singapore Flyer via taxi cab from Orchard Road where we met our good friend, Gina who’s based in Singapore for 3 years now. She generously waited for us at Jollibee Lucky Plaza from 10AM to 12 noon because we arrived at ibis Hotel on Bencoolen a bit later than expected from our 9-hour-bus-ride from Penang. After we feasted at Gina’s Jollibee lunch treat, she even accompanied us to Singapore Flyer that made our kamustahan even longer. We bid goodbyes and promised us she’ll find time to visit us in Malaysia soon. We like her so much because despite her accomplishments on being an IT-expert in Singapore, MBA-certified from ADMU, US-Registered Nurse and all, she remains humble in every sense of the word and so fun to talk to. More like the Lion City, Gina’s inspiring!

Before Gina left that Friday-Holiday (Wesak Day) afternoon, I went my way to the counter at Singapore Flyer to collect our iVenture Cards. We were fortunately invited by iVenture Card Singapore and were provided 2-day-See-Singapore Unlimited Attraction Pass package to sample in all the theme parks included on their list. Details of iVenture Card, its packages and inclusives on my blog post HERE!

By availing iVenture Card See Singapore package, you’ll enjoy savings because it’s truly value for money, and will delight in the volume of choices and absolute convenience.

Gabby posing as unofficial endorser of iVenture Card. Pwede?

Just before boarding the capsule, inside Singapore Flyer, the kid found a paradise.

Thank you, iVenture Card Singapore!

After our 30-minute-Singapore Flyer-flight, we trooped to the ground level and I led Tina & Gabby to Singapore Food Trail. I liked it the first time I saw it last year when I was invited to attend Singapore Blog Awards. The food court was impressively patterned after famous streets in the city with replicas of hawker stalls selling local must-eat. It was still early to have dinner so we opted to have something to beat the bipolar Singaporean weather. I thought Tina & Gabby would like the Ice Kachang and Ice Ball and they did but not the Bird’s Nest Drink I bought for them. At least we try to sample something local whenever we go somewhere. It’s best to travel using all of your senses.

After the almost obligatory bladder break just before we head to the next tourist spot included in the iVenture Card See-Singapore package, I randomly spotted a very fascinating and charming corner inside Singapore Food Trail. It was a small but quaint area where all the memorabilia and treasures of the recent past were beautifully installed. No fees needed, it’s a free visual treat! We were happy like kids who first saw playgrounds and playmates!

Vintage bottled beverages.

Old school cam. Just gorgeous.

AM-FM Radio.

Caption not needed.

Soda/Softdrinks wooden cases.

Turn table, baby!

Cash register, the coolest we saw!

No typographical error, please! hehe! Thanks to evolution, blogging was born!

And many more eye candies…

We found happy moments between Sinagpore’s past, present and future on board the capsule of Singapore Flyer and inside Singapore Food Trail.

Everything was made cost-effective and easy with iVenture Card See Singapore Package; thank you very much!

Happy times in Singapore. May 24-26, 2013.

*While this is a sponsored blog post, the words are all mine unless quoted, and were never influenced by anyone.

*This family staycation in Singapore is made possible by :

iVenture Card Singapore | website : www.iventurecard.com

and ibis Hotel Singapore on Bencoolen | website : www.ibis.com

This post is a part of Singapore Blog Series : May 2013.

May

IBIS HOTEL SINGAPORE ON BENCOOLEN

By docgelo 12 Comments

For people like us who prioritize location, comfort and price, finding a decent accomodation in one of the most expensive cities like Singapore could be a tough challenge and at times, painful on the pocket. It’s a well-known fact that rates of hotels in the Lion City could cost you an arm and leg; well, the story’s different if you decide to stay in box-like room without windows, that comes with poorest amenities (FYI : Been there. Done that!). Fortunately, we’re privileged to appreciate ibis Hotel Singapore on Bencoolen that provides basic needs of a budget-conscious family like mine, without compromising other concerns.

One of my favorite murals in Haji Lane. One of the most visited tourist spots in Singapore. Accessible from ibis by foot. Walking several meters from the hotel to this, certainly spells healthy habit and huge savings on transport.

So what makes ibis Hotel Sinagpore on Bencoolen very appealing to us?

LOCATION and RATES

ACCESSIBILITY via bus & MRT stations, taxi cabs; very near to convenience stores, malls, tourist spots in Singapore. There’s a bus stop right in front of the hotel (and that SGD 193++ on the photo above is the current starting rate per room as of May 2013; highly competitive and reasonably affordable if you ask me. Go finish reading this post and surely, you’ll book your next stay in Singapore at ibis).

24-hour-convenience store near the entrance of ibis Hotel Singapore on Bencoolen

The rear part of the hotel that serves as main entrance at Bencoolen link leads to other places to see while you’re there.

LOCAL FLAVORS : CULTURE, RELIGION, FOOD

A minute-walk from ibis will take your feet to this area where Buddhist & Hindu temples are located.

Lotus flowers as offerings to Buddhist temple near ibis. Such vibrant and gorgeous colors!

“Kwan Im Thong Hood Cho Temple. Only 1 minute walk from ibis. It’s literally located just behind the hotel. Dedicated to Kuan Yin, the Goddess of Mercy, this temple has existed since 1885. Heaped with hundreds of small statues of gods from Chinese pantheon, the temple transports you into the world of Chinese mythology” -via the hotel brochure.

“Sri Krishnan Hindu Temple. Only 1 minute walk from ibis; just adjacent the Buddhist temple. Declared as an historic site by the Singapore National Heritage Board, this tempole is one of the oldest temples established in the 1870s.”-via the hotel brochure.

Like most Hindu temples I’ve been to, there were pigeons -feeding & flying within the vicinity of the temple.

Few steps more from those temples and your feet will eventually lead you to Bugis Street, Bugis Junction and MRT Bugis Station.

*Bugis Jucntion | Bugis Village | MRT Station | Bugis Street – Around 5 minute walk from ibis. One of the must-visit shopping havens in Singapore that may stimulate the mall-shopping-rat in you! There are so many shops to choose from inside the comforting airconditioned mall and a lot more of bargain finds from Bugis Street! There’s a volume of eating places too, from hakwer stalls, fast food joints to food court and stylish-themed restaurants. The choice is almost endless! And more important than shopping, we frequented this place for its MRT Station that took us to other places we went to while we’re there.

Inside Bugis Junction.

From ibis Hotel to temples & malls & MRT Station at Bugis; your feet may lead you to other places. As for us, on our third and last day in Singapore, I asked my wife and son if they want to walk from Bugis Junction to Arab Street and Haji Lane while our luggages were kept at ibis’ concierge after checking out on our last day, they agreed. Et voila!

I’m happy to revisit Haji Lane; even happier to bring Tina & Gabby here for the first time!

Sultan Mosque along Arab Street. One of the most-visited-places of worship in Singapore by local & foreign tourists.

Other suggested nearby must-see places around ibis Hotel include :

“Sim Lim Square (an electronic shopping complex with shops selling IT components, accessories & gadgets) – 2 minute away
Little India -5 minute away
Orchard Road -15 minute away
The Merlion – 20 minute away
Esplanade – 1.7 km away
Suntec City – 2.0 km away
and many more!”

World Class! (I love those 2 words nowadays! hehehe) If you must know, ibis is almost everywhere!

Lobby, ibis Hotel Singapore on Bencoolen. Simple, minimalist, functional, beautiful.

Must Shout this Out : WIFI is FAST & FREE!!!

The last time I went to Singapore solo and stayed in a super-budget-hotel-without-windows-and-whatnot for one night,

I paid SGD 5 per 12 hour use of wifi.

You won’t have that hassle in ibis Hotel Singapore on Bencoolen.

Welcome fruits, red wine and goblets, bottles of water were waiting for us by the windows. Yes, the rooms have windows! Hallelujiah!

CLEANLINESS IS MANDATORY

Queen-sized bed, delicious pillows and handsome comforter! We had restful sleeps for 2 nights in Sg.

The room may be small than usual but equipped with necessities we need. More so, it screams cleanliness!

Just when you’re lazy and tired to go down to the restaurant or convenience store, hallways of each level have vendo machines!

COMPLIMENTARY BREAKFAST : BEYOND EXPECTATIONS

ibis’ TASTE restaurant where we had complimentary breakfasts. Yummy!

ibis’ restaurant, TASTE made us satiated during our stay. Tina, Gabby and I were really surprised with the wide choices of food for breakfast! The restaurant’s name is absolutely not a misnomer; actually, it’s appropriately called TASTE because not only the menu each day varies and comes in volume but the offerings are really TASTEFUL!

Try to spot the hungry fambam : Tina & Gabby.

More than one coffee making facilities. We LOVED it! It was Tina who remindded me, “You need to mention that on your blog (pointing to the coffee machines with her pouting lips), that people don’t need to queue to get themselves coffee or tea because TASTE has two.

Happy problem : So will it be soybean milk, full cream milk or low fat milk? Try them all if you like!

Bottomless : Orange, apple, pineapple & soy.

Now, here comes the part that we get down to serious business (Read : The inevitable SHAMELESS DISPLAY of what we ate as a family, take note, for TWO MORNINGS, I repeat, two morning at ibis). One of the many reasons why we were impressed with ibis was the FOOD. Sleep was fine because bed and pillows were so comfy, shower with hot & cold water & plentiful towels were okay too, but it truly made our mornings waking up fresh and starting the days in the Lion City with full stomachs! We were happy diners!!!

Salad, samosa, hash browns.

BACON, BACON, BACON, baby! Tina & I were very very very happy! hahaha!

The Tina-Gabby project. No further caption needed.

I even dreamt of bacon from Taste so the next morning, I lived the dream I dream, lol!

Heaven on a plate! hehehe! We don’t eat bacon in Penang on a daily basis anyway! *defensive*

Mee Goreng, croissant and apparently, bacon again! Kill me now!

Platter of fibers, vitamins & freshness for the family!

I posted similar photo on my instagram with the caption : “Today, I married peaches & apricots!” Sarap!!!

So location’s great, cultural, religious and other local flavors are within a stone’s throw away, food is more than awesome, best, the service’s so quick! Honestly, Tina and I were observing the staff at the Taste restaurants and they refill the food warmers and all at the spread in a sec! Staff is more than enough to handle every table at Taste. To us, they deserve a salary raise! The staff at the concierge, even the cleaning crew that makes the room each day were a delight too!

It’s always PEOPLE beyond anything else that make up a business;

that keep the business alive!

Bravo, ibis Singapore on Bencoolen for having simple but functional people!

ibis Hotel Singapore on Bencoolen has 538 rooms that are totally dedicated to comfort; we’re very blessed and thankful to experienced at least one of them during our short stay in the Lion City. And would not mind checking in again the next time we revisit Sg!

ibis Hotel Singapore on Bencoolen, thank you very much! We had a comfortable stay.

ibis Hotel Singapore on Bencoolen | 170 Bencoolen Street, Singapore 189657 | Tel # +65 6593 2888
Fax : +65 6593 2889 | Email : H6657@accor.com | Website : www.ibishotel.com/singaporebencoolen

*While this is a sponsored blog post, the words are all mine unless quoted, and were never influenced by anyone.

*This family staycation in Singapore is made possible by :

iVenture Card Singapore | website : www.iventurecard.com

and ibis Hotel Singapore on Bencoolen | website : www.ibis.com

This post is a part of Singapore Blog Series : May 2013.

May

RIVER SAFARI, SINGAPORE

By docgelo 11 Comments

Mesmerizing tranquility at River Safari, Singapore : Something we don’t see on a daily basis!

May 24, 25, 26, 2013. Singapore. It’s my fourth trip back to the Lion City, third time for Tina & Gabby. With the exception of interrupted sleep due to mandatory bladder breaks, we comfortably endured another 9-hour-bus-trip that departed Penang Sentral few minutes before 9PM, May 23, Thursday. We woke up the following morning (Holiday : Wesak Day) at Larkin Sentral Station in Johor Bahru, alighted the bus with luggage and backpacks in tow, and quickly grabbed bites from the ever reliable fast food joint that offers Big Breakfast. We left again Penang, where we’re currently based, and crossed the borders of Malaysia and Singapore on foot once more. I fear it may become a habit, hehehe!

After checking in at Hotel ibis Singapore on Bencoolen, (blogging next!) we refreshed and hit the roads to ate lunch with Gina, our Filipino good friend who lives in Singapore. After a few hours of engaging chit chat, we went our way to prove what iVenture card is all about.

Fast forward to our second day in Singapore, Tina, Gabby and I decided to use our iVenture cards at River Safari.

When in Singapore, must enjoy its highly efficient buses and MRT

How to get to Singapore Zoo, Night Safari and River Safari via bus & MRT?

Board the MRT’s North South Line (red line) and alight at Ang Mo Kio station.
Take Exit B and walk to the bus stop at Ang Mo Kio Interchange, Ang Mo Kio Avenue 8.
Board Bus 138 at Ang Mo Kio Interchange, Ang Mo Kio Avenue 8.
Alight at Singapore Zoological Gardens, Mandai Lake Road and walk to River Safari or Singapore Zoo or Night Safari.
TIP : Use http://gothere.sg to locate your traveling directions in Singapore from point A to point B.

That moment when we owned seats at the MRT even for a while

Hello, Singapore Zoo and River Safari!

And we arrived almost lunch time of May 25, 2013, Saturday

We effortlessly bypassed the long queue and walked our way directly to the counter to collect our tickets. How did we do that? We just presented our iVenture cards; et voila!

Cost-saving, convenient and lots of choices with iVenture Card!

What’s iVenture card?

iVenture card operates in theme parks in Singapore, Macau, Australia, Hong Kong & South Africa. We found iVenture card very tourist-friendly as it gives you so many options of theme parks to choose from while maximizing budget and enjoying convenience. We were provided See-Singapore-2-Day-Pass (2 Adults & 1 Child). It’s an UNLIMITED PASS that will NOT require you to pay admission rates at any of the attractions included in the pass; so the more sights you see, the more money you save! Tourists could opt for 1, 2, 3, or 5 consecutive days. It also comes with FREE guidebook containing maps, directions and tips that may be collected when you claim the iVenture card itself.

The possiblities of fun are infinite!

Here’s the list of attractions included in iVenture Card See Singapore 2 Day-Pass; everything’s FREE unless the discount is indicated :

West (Jurong) : Jurong Bird Park, Snow City, Science Center Singapore
Sentosa : Underwater World Singapore & Dolphin Lagoon, Skyline Luge Sentosa, Fish Reflexology at Underwater World Singapore
North (Woodlands) : River Safari, Night Safari, Singapore Zoo
Orchard Road : National Orchid Garden
Marina Bay : Singapore Flyer, Flight Experience (25% off), Singapore River Cruise, Ultimate Drive (1o% off), Riverview Tandoor (15% off)
Bugis | Little India : The Original Singapore Walks, Trishaw Uncle (30% off)
Chinatown : The Original Singapore Walks, Bath Culture Foot Therapy (10% off)
East Coast : Changi Museum, Forest Adventure, Changi Museum War Trail (20% off)
Riverside | Civic District : Mint Museum of Toys, The Original Singapore Walks, Singapore Pub Crawl (5% off)

Gabby was surprised and apparently happy when he learned we need not to queue with iVenture card

The smiles say it all. We’re very pleased with iVenture Card! We saved time, efforts and money of course! Thank you!

Regular admission rates in SGD as of May 25, 2013. You’ll be able to save more when you purchase iVenture card instead of availing tickets with its regular cost

Photos, photos and more photos at the facade of River Safari

And we’re ready and excited to explore the only river-themed park in Asia! Let’s go!

While some people have developed an aversion to zoo, theme parks, wildlife conservatories, aquariums and aviaries, my family and I are otherwise. More than the thought that it provides learning beyond books and experience outside classrooms, Tina and I were delighted to see Gabby’s wide eyes and ear-to-ear-smile, before the sight of those river-dwelling-animals, that he only sees when he watches his favorite, Nat Geo Wild on cable TV. Those moments spent in River Safari were certainly priceless!

I hope this humble blog post will make its readers more aware of preservation of rivers and other bodies of water.

It was a pleasure to explore Asia’s first and only river-themed wildlife park. With its 2 zones namely, Rivers of the World and Wild Amazonia, River Safari puts spotlight over 5,000 land and water animals representing 300 species!

Here’s a few of what we appreciated inside River Safari, starting with Mississippi River :

Alligator Gar | Atractosteus spatula | Ikan Buaya Gar.

“The largest of of all gars, growing up to 3 meters and over 100 kg. The wide alligator-like snout is lined with razor-sharp teeth. Its flesh is edible (No, thank you!), but the eggs are toxic to humans.” -as per label, River Safari

Alligator Snapping Turtle | Macrochelys temminckii | Penyu sentap

“One of the largest fresh water turtles in the world. Males can weigh over 100 kg. Their massive jaws are so powerful, they can easily snap off one’s finger.” -as per label, River Safari

Mississippi Paddlefish | Polyodon spathula | Ikan Dayung Mississippi

“The flat snout detects electric impulses to navigate and locate food. Paddlefish eggs are sold as caviar. Its cousin, the Chinese Paddlefish, is critically endagered.” -as per label, River Safari

Pong Pagong, is that you, dude? hehehe!

Congo River :

~~Can someone identify this yellow fishie fishie for me, please?~~ Pufferfish. Cute!

There’s the longest, River Nile then the enchanting, Ganges River :

At the Ganges River section of River Safari

You can sue me for being clueless but honestly, I initially thought those 2 Indian Gharial were only cemented statues inside those huge tanks. I disregarded my thoughts when I saw them moved from one corner to another, while the school of small fish went swimming haywire for their precious lives. Hehehe!

Indian Gharial | Gavialis gangeticus | Buaya julung julung

“The gharial got its name from the Hindi word, ghara which means “pot”. This bump at the tip of the male’s snout is believed to amplify buzzing sounds during courtship.” -as per label, River Safari

En route to Mekong River :

Meet the Crab-Eating Macaques between Murray and Mekong River…

Mind Your Monkey Manners. Touch Not. Stare Not. Feed Not

What else can be found in Mekong River? Mekong Giant Catfish!!!

Massive, impressive aquarium of Mekong Giant Catfish

A few steps after the Mekong River section, red and pink Oriental lanterns adorn the ceilings, while bamboo fence lined the walkway. Do you have a hint about the next river?

The walk towards Yangtze River

At this point, we became more excited to see the pandas!

Surprisingly, it’s not only the Giant Pandas on feature at the Giant Panda Forest at River Safari…

Red Pandas or Firefox. There are a couple of playful firefox, running & climbing trees actively at River Safari

Before the sighting of the Giant Pandas, Kai Kai and Jia Jia, we saw the panda’s menu.

Yes, dear. Pandas eat bamboos. It’s their staple actually. I also learned it late, only after I saw live ones in Chiang Mai last December 2012. Never too late to learn!

Unfortunately, the girl and smaller panda, Jia jia was out of sight as she is being prepared to munch bamboos. Nonetheless, we stared for several minutes at the male and bigger panda, Kai Kai.

Sleeping like a babe. Wake up, Kai Kai! Chow time, baby!

Happy to see Kai Kai, the giant panda!

Panda’s Developmental Milestones. Interesting, isn’t it?

We felt so privileged and happy to experience River Safari through iVenture card! Thank you very much!

Despite River Safari’s soon to open-Wild Amazonia is still a work in progress, this theme park has started to boast a crystal clear awareness campaign to preserve and conserve rivers and other bodies of water.

Let rivers live forever!

It was one special weekend we will never forget! Thank you so much!

Via @teensantos on instagram

iVenture Card may be purchased via their website : www.iventurecard.com.

To activate iVenture experience package, present the booking receipt that’s emailed upon purchase online, to the customer service staff at any of these locations :

313 @ Somerset Concierge Desk | Basement 1, Orchard Rd
HS Travel Hong Kong International Airport Arrival Hall, Counter 88 (Opposite Exit A)
Singapore Flyer (where we redeemed our iVenture cards) Guest Services Lounge | 30 Raffles Ave, Sg
Singapore River Cruises, Clarke Quay
Underwater World Singapore, 80 Siloso Rd, Sentosa

*Special thanks to iVenture Card Singapore and Hotel ibis Singapore on Bencoolen | website : www.ibis.com

*While this is a sponsored blog post, the words are all mine unless quoted, and were never influenced by anyone.

This post is a part of Singapore Blog Series : May 2013.

May

HERITAGE WING OF E&O PENANG

By docgelo 2 Comments

Poolside, Heritage Wing, Eastern & Oriental Hotel, Penang, Malaysia

It was one of the very first places in George Town, Penang that I saw, together with my colleagues a few days after we’re brought to Malaysia from the Philippines to work as a Medical Lecturers some time in 2010. I found Eastern & Oriental Hotel Penang’s Heritage Wing with Old-World-charm, utterly regal and remarkably elegant. Seeing its majestic and historic structures was already a huge treat for me back then. I never thought that I’ll have a chance to walk inside its beautiful suites with my family, more so, experience and appreciate its unparalleled service and world-class amenities when we stayed in one of its Corner Suites at its Victory Annexe Wing.

The very elageant lobby of E&O, Penang -Heritage Wing

“The Heritage Wing is the historical heart of the Eastern & Oriental Hotel. Built in 1885, its Moorish minarets and soaring echo-dome lobby provide the backdrop for khaki-clad doormen and pith-helmeted bellhops to welcome guests to its 100 elegant suites.

Indeed, over its century-and-a-quarter history, the E&O’s Heritage Wing has played host to some of the world’s most celebrated artists, writers and heads of state.

Attended to by the E&O’s legendary butler service, each suite offers the perfect invitation to step back into the refined elegance and colonial grandeur of a golden age.” ~via www.eohotels.com

My family, Tina & Gabby at the lobby, E&O Hotel Penang, Heritage Wing

My family and I were very pleased to be ushered inside a few suites at the E&O Heritage Wing and Victory Annexe Wing. We truly enjoyed every minute of the hotel tour as it doesn’t happen ordinarily to everyone, so we really felt privileged and grateful.

Imagine our excitement upon riding the century-old lift. With all its fixtures and buttons to press that are astronomically far from being modern, it seemed we stepped back in time and traveled through history in a blink. The feeling was similar to being on the set of one of the Harrie-Potter-movies; more than magical it was surreal!

We felt younger than Gabby’s during that few second-ride on the lift

The first we visited was the Heritage Wing’s Deluxe Suite. This 58-square-meter-sea view suite has separate living area, bedroom and luxurious bathroom.

I found it perfect for businessmen or professionals who travel either with a small family or solo, who prefer something classical and historic.

For someone who’s looking for a sophisticated and relaxing stay in a more spacious room at the Heritage Wing, the Writers’ Suites, definitely are an excellent choice! Spanning an area that’s not usual for a hotel room, this oversized 135-square-meter-sea-view suite has a living area, dining lounge with a bar and a guest restroom. We’re able to see one of the Writers’ Suites that was named after Rudyard Kipling. Its bathroom includes a claw and ball long bath tub with separate shower stall equipped with “His” and “Her” hand basins.

The bed looks certainly delicious!

This suite’s balcony gives you a sweeping view of the Malacca Strait and a feel of Europe when you’re in Asia.

En route back to Victory Annexe, we were generously asked if we would like to take the stairs rather than the more modern lift to go down. The kind staff opened one door that gave us the chance to see this lovely chandelier that hangs over the ceiling all the way down to the ground floor and can be best appreciated when descending from the stairs. Obviously, my family and I decided to take the lift going down but we didn’t lose the chance of photographing that gorgeous chandelier amidst the wooden winding stairs.

Tucked in one of the corners of E&O’s Heritage Wing is its library. The library houses a couple of flat-screen computer units with free and fast wifi access. What gives the room its E&O appeal is the use of very handsome leather seats and wooden furnitures. We liked it a lot actually. It’s a fusion of something old and something new.

Past & Present Fusion : Computers and century-old-stylish-furniture. Lovely pair, isn’t it?

The Library, Heritage Wing, E&O

A necessary gym with sauna is also installed in the Heritage Wing, strategically located near the swimming pool to encourage guests to keep fit and healthy. Another fitness room was built at the Victory Annexe Wing for its guests’ convenience.

Fitness Room, Heritage Wing, E&O.

The doors at the gym and from the lobby generously open to the courtyard and swimming pool with a gorgeous view of the Malacca Strait and a well manicured garden. This area of Heritage Wing is very relaxing and soothing.

After a few minute-stroll at the courtyard of the Heritage Wing, we were led back to the Victory Annexe Wing.

The Lobby, Victory Annexe Wing, Eastern & Oriental Hotel, Penang. Modern yet with a hint of grandeur during the colonial British era.

Our eyes were soon mesmerized by the classy interiors and outstanding amenities of Superior Suite at the Victory Annexe Wing. Each of the 55-square-meter Superior Suite has a balcony that either offers a city view or a more preferred sea view, luxurious marble bathroom with twin vanity counters.

With E&O Hotel Penang, either in Heritage Wing or the newly restored Victory Annexe Wing, all guests are absolutely pampered with high-quality-amenities, warm and friendly service; provided with full access to enjoy a fabulous holiday or savor a special occasion while delighting in a very impressive and a pleasurable stay.

Eastern & Oriental Hotel | 10 Lebuh Farquhar, 102oo Penang, Malaysia | www.e-o-hotel.com

This E&O Blog Series includes :

Special thanks to E&O Hotel Penang, to Ms. Eileen Chong and Mr. Criz Lai.

PS : If you must know, E&O provides a guide map of the Heritage Trail of one of UNESCO’S World Heritage Sites, George Town, and it’s conveniently located at the reading nook at the suite, but you can also read my blog post, My Mini Guide to George Town Penang. Thanks!

*While this is a sponsored blog post, the words are all mine unless quoted, and were never influenced by anyone.

May

TIMELESS ELEGANCE AT EASTERN & ORIENTAL HOTEL PENANG

By docgelo 17 Comments

Time stood still when I was reading the generous invitation of E&O Penang sent via email, to a luxurious 3D2N family staycation at one of the five Corner Suites spanning a whopping 123-square-meters of pure elegance and convenience, with breathtaking view of the Malacca Strait, located at the newly opened wing (barely 2 month old), that houses a total of 122 sea-view suites, the Victory Annexe.

The Lobby, Victory Annexe, E&O

As I was trying my best to recollect my thoughts and bring myself back to my senses, my excitement heightened when my mobile rang, and the voice on the line was asking me if I wanted to stay at E&O with my wife and son for one or two nights. On a trembling tone, I replied, “Two nights!” of course. The next thing I heard on the phone was an invitation to review everything about E&O’s fine dining restaurant, 1885. Date and time of the dinner were set, emails were sent. Heart and pulse rates went haywire.

And just like that, the most unforgettable dinner and an incredibly sophisticated accomodation await us at E&O. We’re very grateful!

Classy and contemporary, yet details reflect the opulence of colonial British era.

“Eastern & Oriental Hotel, Penang, Malaysia Built : 1885. Historical hospitality giants, the Sarkies brothers are credited wuth founding the iconic hotels including Singapore’s Raffles & Myanmar’s The Strand, but it all started in George Town, Penang back during the Malaysian island’s days as an outpost of the East India Company.

The grand dame of all Sarkies brothers’ hotels was initially two separate accomodations – the Eastern Hotel, built in 1884, and the Oriental Hotel built a year later on an adjacent piece of land.

The hotel simply became known as “Eastern & Oriental” between 1889 and 1990.” sourced via E&O Edition Issue 13.

17 to 19 May, 2013. Tina and I filed a half-day leave from work, days before that memorable Friday, while our kiddo, Gabby left his school before lunch time too with permission from his teachers. After being refreshed at our home in Butterworth, Penang, with our luggage and backpack in tow, we all trooped to George Town in the island via bus and ferry and took a taxi cab to the lobby of E&O.

After a brief but warm reception by the staff at the lobby, we were escorted to our 7th floor-Corner Suite by a butler.

Can you imagine we owned this beautifully oversized space for three days and two nights?

Unbelievable!

My family and I felt so home!

THE CORNER SUITE at VICTORY ANNEXE WING, E&O PENANG

The Living Room. Fantastic, isn’t it?

The most gorgeous mini-bar we saw. To wish for it to be all-complimentary might be too much.

Gabby, the explorer. He initially explored the mini-bar!

Coffee Making Facility : Lavazza. All day FREE Lavazza Coffee, Twining’s Tea, Milo & canned soda.

The goodies on the woven tray weren’t free as noted on a card by the bar clearly. No worries.

Among the many inclusives at the Corner Suite package, the one that we like the most is the hotel’s complimentary wifi. High-speed wifi broadband connection kept us attached to our social networks and to the rest of the world. I dislike other hotels that charge high rates of wifi access. At E&O, it’s fuss-free!

On our second day, look how sweet our son was! He volunteered to make me and Tina cups of coffee! Moments spent with family were absolutely more precious than anything!

Photos taken by my lovely wife, Tina.

Two complimentary fruit platters were delivered by the butler during our stay. Sweet!

It’s difficult not to admire the details put at every inch of this Corner Suite. We all like the Victorian theme done in a very tame and minimalist way. The fusion of materials used in the fixtures and furnitures was sublime. Expensive wood parquet floors mixed with luscious marble stones, regal carpets, Solihiya-woven chairs that scream Asian, brass and porcelains; every spot looked so delicious!

With utmost humility, my family and I have stayed in a few hotel suites in the Philippines and other countries but I must state that the most spacious and gorgeous to date was E&O’s Corner Suite! If the living room’s more than remarkble, the toilet and bath’s beyond words. I cannot think of superlatives to properly describe the Corner Suite’s banyo; it’s the prettiest we’ve seen! So comfy I think anyone can doze off at the tub effortlessly. Tell me if there’s a word more appropriate than perfect to describe it.

Spotless. Almost sterile.

There’s a separate guests’ washroom tucked strategically between the living room and the main toilet and bath. The bathroom features double vanity counters -somewhat like his and hers with pedestal ceramic basins, a claw and ball long bath with separate unique rainforest showers. Beautiful!!!

Quality bath time it was!

Perhaps because the suites at Victory Annexe were just new, only 2 months old since it opened to public last March, a few more things, we think are lacking. It would be better if these wardrobe, besides having a safe, 2 sarongs, and several hangers for clothes, would also keep a flat iron and an ironing board, plus a couple of long umbrellas. Those were usual things we spotted in a few suites in Singapore and in the Philippines that we’ve been to.

How edgy and modern to have digital and glass weighing scale and how traditional it is to provide woven slippers in dark chocolate color for Daddy, Mommy and Baby! Cool! :D

Little details with thoughtful impact : Cards with proverbs, wisdom and quotes supplied daily, placed on bedside.

It says, “He who smiles rather than rages is the strongest.” ~ Japanese Wisdom

Inspiring!

If you think the toilet and bath is ethereal, the bedroom is divine!

We love the entire bedroom and all its details! I love this reading lamp! Reminds me to look up the stars at night! Stellar!

After settling in : Riot! Told you, we owned it! Seriously, we had restful sleeps for two nights on that bed.

The seafront 270-degree-expansive-private balcony offers a sweeping view of the Malacca Strait, skyline and shoreline of Pulau Pinang. Here are some of my amateurish photos taken at the Corner Suite’s balcony at different times of day. Believe me, these captures don’t do it justice.

Malaysian sunrise from E&O’s Corner Suite last May 18, 2013, Saturday, around 7AM. I missed the sunrise the following day because of that handsome bed. Sue me! lol

An afternoon shot from the balcony. From here, we could see our apartment across the Malacca Strait!

I went down the facade of the hotel before 7PM and the Malaysian sky turned royal blue. #nofilter #nophotoshop #tripod

I wish we could’ve spend more time on this balcony. Who knows, we’ll have another chance to be here again?

The staff of E&O were so thoughtful and generous to provide extra bed for Gabby even before I made the request.

Gallery-themed hallway. Almost museum-like. I love the elegant display of crisp photos that depicts everything about Penang! It’s always excellent to go LOCAL! Kudos, E&O!

Tina, Gabby and I felt very privileged for experiencing not only the Corner Suite reserved for us but for having the opportunity to tour the Heritage Wing, its suites and amenities, and the other facilities of Victory Annexe Wing. We were escorted by a pretty and friendly staff whose name slipped my poor memory. Her name may have been forgotten but her service rendered was memorable. The Heritage Wing and the other facilities and suites on the next post! Moving on…

We were ushered to the gym at Victory Annexe. Modern equipments, simply amazing interiors with the view of the sea await physical buffs at E&O’s newest wing. There’s also another gym at the Heritage Wing.

FITNESS ROOM

Part of the Victory Annexe Experience is the Invigorating Yoga session on Tuesdays and Thursdays.

One of our favorite areas in the Victory Annexe of E&O was the Deck Pool or what we aptly call, Infinity Pool at its 6th level.

Come, let Gabby lead you the way…

THE EXCLUSIVE DECK POOL

Because the swimming pool at the Heritage Wing and the charming bath tubs in the suites are not enough : Infinity Pool at the 6th level of Victory Annexe Wing! Best enjoyed at hours past 3PM, in our opinion. Forget all worries and hassles, stretch out your limbs on the pool chairs and submit yourself into the caress of the cool Malaysian wind and the sea breeze. That’s what we did while we’re here. Although we didn’t take a dip, we truly had a relaxing time here.

Spectacular view, isn’t it?

We could see our apartment across Malacca Strait from the Infinity Pool…

It became our habbit for few days to drop by the Deck Pool either before or after the evening cocktails at its adjacent Planters’ Lounge.

Impressive set of furnitures, isn’t it?

THE EXCLUSIVE PLANTERS’ LOUNGE at Level 6

All guests at the 117 Superior Suites and 5 Corner Suites of E&O Penang’s Victory Annexe have exclusive access to avail of their complimentary breakfast, all-day-coffee-and-tea and evening cocktails from 5PM-7PM at the Planters’ Lounge at the 6th level.

Diners have options of dining inside the airconditioned Planters’ Lounge or al fresco by the sea at its balcony .

Its high ceiling and entire interiors were awe-inspiring.

On our Day 1 : Friday Evening Cocktails, The Planters’ Lounge

Al Fresco Dining Area at the Planter’s Lounge. Again, with priceless view of the Malacca Strait.

On our Day 2 : Saturday Evening Cocktails, The Planters’ Lounge

All guests at Victory Annexe Wing are entitled for complimentary breakfast at either The Planters’ Lounge or at Sarkies. Of course, we sampled both!

Our Day 2 : Breakfast at Sarkies, Ground floor, Victory Annexe Wing

Live Cooking Stations for Noodles and Dim Sums. There are also stations for Omelette, local flavors like Roti Canai, etc.

There were free-flowing juices and coffee and…

fresh fruit juices, coffee and even local teh tarik (pulled tea) and mixed beverages upon request.

Bakery Corner with lotsa bread, muffins, cupcakes and pastries

The Live Cooking Station where I requested my noodle dish. I remember I cannot decide between types of noodles so I had them both and the result was textured and delicious!

Must have detail shot! Sedap! Sarap! Delicious!

Our favorites: Chicken Ham, Beef Pastrami and Norwegian Salmon!

Photo by Tina, plate by Tina!

Roti Canai and Dahl Curry. Malaysian favorite! Our favorite! Gabby had two plates of this!

Having assorted dims sums and dumplings for breakfast doesn’t happen on a daily basis for us because of work and school. So we indulged!

I requested one of the chefs to cook my most favorite Malaysian dish….

Spicy Char Koay Teow! I LIKE!!!! I LOVE!!!

Fruits. Indubitably healthy! Mandatory!

Ending the awesome breakfast with coffee!

Our Day 3 : Breakfast at Planters’ Lounge

Chicken Ham, Beef Pastrami, Norwegian Salmon, Sushi! Rerun of everything scrumptious!

Round 2! lol

Over and beyond great food and incredibly pleasant ambiance, is Planters’ Lounge at E&O’s warm and friendliest service. We observed how Ms. Izzie, or Nurul Izzreen, the Assistant Manager of F&B at E&O, attended to her guests with courtesy, fast and flawless service. It was so nice of her to spend time with almost all diners, table per table, making sure everyone’s having a great time. She even shared a personal bits and pieces of her life to us, making us more comfortable and welcomed at E&O. Hats off to her and to E&O’s remarkable service! Bravo!

My family with Ms. Izzie, Assistant Manager, F&B at E&O.

Fresh fruit juices (orange, watermelon, honey dew) and soya milk for the three of us to complement, rather to maximize the breakfast experience!

We’re all full and satiated when Ms. Izzie asked us if we want hot or cold chocolate drink for Gabby and coffee or tea for Tina and me. We were weak to resist. One more round of drinks before we head back to the swimming pool area to unwind.

Gabby working with his pot of hot choco prepared by the wonderful people of E&O.

We could have availed of E&O’s complimentary Shuttle Service to explore more of Penang, from E&O to Straits Quay to Lone Pine Hotel and return, as the gracious staff emailed me the schedule upon request (also available at the concierge), but since we’re also currently based here, my family and I opted to stay inside our suite and savored every second of it!

Incredibly beautiful interiors,

world-class amenities,

unparalleled customer service

in a heritage hotel with illustrious history,

all these make E&O Penang

greatly different from the rest.

Malaysia and her people must be so proud to have E&O!

Thank you very much for adding memories to cherish to our days here in Penang! We love you, E&O! We will remain eternally grateful!

This E&O Penang Blog Series includes :

1885 : E&O Hotel Penang’s Fine Dining Restaurant
stay tuned for more!

1885 | Eastern & Oriental Hotel | 10 Lebuh Farquhar, 102oo Penang, Malaysia | Operating hours : 2PM-11PM (daily), English Afternoon Tea is served from 2PM to 5PM | website : http://e-o-hotel.com/1885/

Special thanks to E&O Hotel Penang, to Ms. Eileen Chong and Mr. Criz Lai.

*While this is a sponsored blog post, the words are all mine unless quoted, and were never influenced by anyone.

May

1885 : E&O HOTEL PENANG’S FINE DINING RESTAURANT

By docgelo 10 Comments

Categories: FAMILY : LOVE KO 'TO, ILOVEPHOTOS, MALAYSIA and TRAVEL
Tags: 1885, 1885 restaurant e&o penang, blog review, blogger, dining, docgelo, e & o hotel penang, e and o hotel, e&o hotel, eastern and oriental hotel penang, eastern oriental hotel penang, eat, expat blog, expatriate blogger, expatriate in malaysia, family and living, filipino blogger, fine dining, food, food blog, food blogger, foodie, heritage hotel, heritage hotel in asia, heritage hotels, hotel restaurants in malaysia, hotels, hotels in malaysia, Life, lifestyle blog, lifestyle blogger, luxury hotel in penang malaysia, luxury hotels, most recommended hotel in asia, most recommended hotel in malaysia, must visit in malaysia, must visit in penang, overseas blog, overseas blogger, penang malaysia, pinoy blogger, restaurant review, restaurants, restaurants in george town penang, restaurants in malaysia, restaurants in penang, staycation, the art of fine dining, the most luxurious hotel in asia, where to eat in george town penang, where to eat in malaysia, where to go in george town penang, wines

Memorable. It was one of our most unforgettable dining experiences ever. We’re eternally grateful!

05/17/13, Friday, Eastern & Oriental Hotel Penang, Malaysia. My family and I were fortunately invited by E&O to a 3D2N luxury accomodation at one of the five-123-square-meter-Corner Suites, among its 117 units of 55-square-meter-Superior Suites located at the newly built, Victory Annexe wing (our experience & views on the hotel suites, other F&Bs & facilities plus our personal recommendations will be on a separate post on this blog series about E&O).

On top of the many exclusive privileges for guests at Victory Annexe that my family and I enjoyed, such as daily breakfast in either Sarkies at its ground floor (which we already sampled previously; blog post HERE!) or in Planter’s Lounge at its 6th level that also serves evening cocktails, E&O was more than generous to invite us as well, to a weekend family dinner at the hotel’s fine dining restaurant, 1885.

My son & I at the living room of E&O Hotel Penang’s Corner Suite before heading to dinner at 1885.

My wife, Tina & our son, Gabby at the hallway connecting Victory Annexe Wing & Heritage Wing.

1885 is located at the ground floor of the historical Heritage Wing of Eastern & Oriental Hotel Penang, which is a few-meter-walk from where we checked in. Stepping inside the restaurant felt surreal; the atmosphere was absolutely different. I silently observed Tina and Gabby’s reactions when all of us allowed the moment to just sink in. It was truly an amazing treat for the three of us!

“Named for the year that the E&O Hotel was established, 1885 offers classical yet contemporary cuisine in an elegant environment in the finest traditions of colonial fine dining.

The selection of inventive fusion dishes from our accomplished chefs, accompanied by a superb selection of wines, marks 1885 as the perfect choice for an enjoyable dining experience.

Traditional English Afternoon Tea is also served in this elegant setting. Candlelit tables, starched linens, silver service, and attentive staff create a magical experience.” ~sourced from http://e-o-hotel.com/1885/

Every table was set simply in tuned with the E&O’s theme : Timeless elegance.

The view from where we sat.

A set menu was specially prepared for us courtesy of the Chef, who happened to be on a special assignment in another Malaysian state that night. Nonetheless, the 6-course-meal was obviously well thought of and was nothing short of impressive.

The set menu for Tina & I.

One of the strongest points that impressed us with 1885 was the fact that they provided a kiddie-dinner-menu for Gabby. Believe me, having separate adult and children’s menus means so much for a family of diners! As in our case, Gabby got to exercise his decision making when he trusted his very own taste in selecting between choices from appetizers to entrees and desserts.

Waiting for our orders was never an issue since we’re entertained by a very soothing and relaxing music that further enhanced the over all ambience of 1885 and of course, made our lovely epicurean experience even more remarkable. A pianist was playing pieces from our wonder years! Love songs commonly heard on the radio during late 80s and 90s were beautifully played on the piano throughout our 7PM to 11PM dinner.

I didn’t expect 1885 to be filled with diners that night but tables were almost packed. I may have underestimated not the restaurant itself, but the choices of guests when it comes to eating places in Penang. It was a great proof that there’s really a market for high-end and quality-dining amidst the volume of affordable hawkers in this Malaysian gastronomic paradise!

Our dinner kicked off with a variety of breads on a basket carried by waiters from table to table.

Herbed and salted butter on bread never fails to stimulate!

Tina and I opted to have different entrees. The choices were usual but the plates were extraordinary. It was a toss between seared fish and baked steak. In as much as I wanted to dunk my fork on a handsome slice of Wagyu Fillet Mignon, I allowed Tina to have it since she liked it over the cod fish and I thought, she’d eventually share it with me, and she did, hehehe!

Because we’re having fish and beef dishes, white and red wines to complement everything were mandatory. I like!

The service of 1885 staff was impeccable. They were highly courteous, quick and attentive. Kudos! To us, they deserve a raise!

Not merely because we’re far from being wine connoisseurs (well, surely we’re not!) but I personally have confidence with established restaurants’ recommendations. So when one of the staff asked us of what wines we like, we threw the question back to him politely. With a smile, he instantly suggested Fire Road Pinot Noir 2011 from New Zealand and LFE Chardonnay 2012 from Chile.

Fire Road Pinot Noir 2011, New Zealand.

Luis Felipe Edwards Chardonnay 2012, Chile.

It was indeed, a fine dining but our conversation remained casual. Gabby discussed his wishes on how to celebrate his upcoming 9th birthday in his school here this October; he already had ideas in mind from the cake, to his requested fried chicken fillet strips with home-made gravy for his mom to prepare for his classmates and teachers, and the gifts that he’d like to receive -what else but toys!

While Tina & I were savoring wines, the little boy wonder was gulping iced water.

One by one, our plates arrived on our table.

Amuse Bouche. This bite-sized hors d’œuvre was Ratatouille; rich with tomatoes and veggies. With no overpowering flavor, Tina and I found it just fine.

Between Tomato Soup and Creme of Mushroom, Gabby chose the latter and he liked it a lot, leaving his soup bowl empty in few sec.

Creme of Mushroom Soup, Buttered Crouton

The greens came in next.

Rocket Salad. Cherry Tomato, Herb Ricotta Cheese Crouton Cracked Black Pepper

Must have detailed shot…

I asked my wife if she like it the way I do and we’re both on the same page. Cheesy and crunchy leaves with mild hints of anchovies. The fusion was effectively tasteful!

If Gabby had Creme of Mushroom Soup, Tina and I had the Lobster Bisque.

Lobster Bisque. Lobster Fricassee, Garlic Bread Croutons. We both love seafoods; no explanations needed.

Then it was time to cleanse the palates.

Sorbet

The test of patience and understanding happened when a wait staff committed mistake in mentally jotting down the orders. Between Carbonara and Bolognese Pasta, our little-big boy told the waiter he likes the former. After several minutes of waiting, a pasta plate with red sauce landed on our table.

Gabby to Tina : “Ma, is this Carbonara?”

Pasta Bolognese

We looked at each other and without wasting a minute, I called the attention of the waiter. Told him that our boy wants Carbonara and not Bolognese. The staff apologized, took the plate and positively replied that he’ll prepare another plate with Carbonara sauce; he even asked us if he can use Rigatoni. To me, that’s being customer-friendly!

Gabby’s choice :

Rigatoni Carbonara

Tina and I saw how Gabby literally devoured his Carbonara. It was even piping hot when Gabby had his fork with pasta to his mouth, one after the other. We were in awe watching him eat. It must be that good!

Baked Wagyu Fillet Mignon. Anna Potato, Lotus Tempura, Spinach Shallot Glaze

Detail shot…

1885′s Baked Wagyu Fillet Mignon passed Tina’s disriminating taste! She had it medium-well and even commented to me that it nearly tasted her favorite fillet mignon dish that she ate in one of the most regarded restaurants in Tagaytay City back home. She shared to me a generous chunk and I effortlessly understood her praises for the dish. It must be the quality of beef plus the meticulous method of cooking. The potato side dish was not merely chopped and fried but was creatively done in thin and layered servings.

My plate :

Seared Cod Fish. Sauteed Soba, Beans Sprout, Tempura Prawn, Sesame Soya Dressing

The cod fish was well seasoned; neither bland nor too salty. It perfectly complemented the crispy prawn tempura. What made the dish soared to the highest heavens was pairing it with sauteed soba. I only hoped for another similar plate that night! And the waiter’s recommendation of chardonnay? I never had a doubt.

Gabby thought of having Single Scoop Ice Cream over Trio Flavored Ice Cream from the kiddie menu.

Vanilla Ice Cream

If Gabby only had the very common yet classic, vanilla flavored ice cream, 1885 prepared a uniquely textured and bitter-sweet dessert plate for Tina and I.

Toffee Mascarpone Cheesecake. Maple Sauce, Cinnamon Cherry, Almond Shortbread

It’s hard to fake it; we liked every plate from the very first one to our dessert. Just look at the smile of my lovely wife. Naks!

At this point, we’re almost struggling with satiation. Tina and I told the wait staff that since our Corner Suite has coffee making facility, we had to let go of having coffee at 1885. However, we got a word that they already began brewing it, so we happily gave in. What’s a pretty meal without coffee ending (or to some, tea) anyway?

Freshly Brewed Coffee (or selection of Gourmet Tea)

The happy diners!

Before writing this, I asked Tina and Gabby of their honest comments with the service, ambiance and food of 1885 and I got no negative response. I only heard from both of them, “Masarap!” or in Bahaya Malaysia, “Sedap!”

We wish to come back for some English Afternoon Tea next time.

Thank you very much, 1885 at E&O Hotel Penang!

>><<

STAY TUNED for MORE of this E&O BLOG SERIES!

*While this is a sponsored blog post, the words are all mine unless quoted, and were never influenced by anyone.

May

WEEKLY PHOTO CHALLENGE : ESCAPE

By docgelo 35 Comments

*The gorgeous living room

*The toilet & bath that looks divine and almost sterile

*My wife & son : my love, my life.

*We’re grateful for the experience; we’ll cherish the memories!

The theme of this week’s WordPress Weekly Photo Challenge is so apt for what we’re having now. For 3 days and 2 nights, my family and I are spending the lovely weekend over a SPONSORED luxurious staycation at EASTERN & ORIENTAL HOTEL PENANG’s 123-square meter-CORNER SUITE. They invited me to review the newly built Victory Annexe Wing of this incredibly beautiful only-seafront view-hotel in George Town, Penang, Malaysia that boasts of heritage and timeless elegance; best, I’m experiencing everything with my family. It’s a sweet ESCAPE from our usual daily routine. It’s totally different experience that deviates us, even for a bit, from all hassles, stress and challenges of daily living in abroad. We cannot be grateful enough!

These photos are just teasers of the upcoming blog series about E&O Hotel Penang. Stay tuned!

This is my entry to WEEKLY PHOTO CHALLENGE : ESCAPE

Apr

RANDOM MEMORIES, HAPPY THOUGHTS FROM MALACCA

By docgelo 6 Comments

Malacca is as colorful as her trishaws.

That shine bright like diamonds at dusk.

Malacca is sweeter than her cendol.

Dare I say it’s tastier than Jalan Penang’s.

It was in Malacca we wore Malaysia as Baba-Nyonya.

Spent (pa-) cute bonding moments.

Inspired to pose for more photos.

As we discovered Church of St. Paul Ruins as a nice backdrop.

Despite the dirty lens problem, ikr.

Clicks, clicks and more clicks…

Here, Cristina’s men in plaid.

That historic ruins on a hill witnessed how my lovely wife looked more chica than ever! Agree? lol

Almost every corner, picturesque!

We had no dull moments.

Loved her river cruise…

Those colors of Melaka River are charming at day…

Enchanting and romantic at night…

In spite of the fact that Stadhuys Museum was closed…

We roamed around others and found valor and heroism…

And because the Malaccan sun was nearly unbearable, we found comfort inside airconditioned museums…

Where royalties and dignitaries used to dine…

Over and beyond her culture and heritage spots, undeniably, it’s the Malaccan food and unique Peranakan tastes that lure people over.

Finally sampled Chicken Rice Balls, Malaccan Roasted Chicken and Pork, Tofu in Oyster Sauce, even Western bites of course!

Our appreciation for few visual arts fused with incredibly cool ambiance was heightened at The Baboon House Malacca…

Time stood still at Hereen Street…

Where hugs and joy reigned.

Certainly melted our worries away…

Saw more fascinating things being sold at the touristy and famous, Jonker Street…

Where beautiful is an understatement…

Where unique tastes and traditional collide…

Malacca, you brought so much fun!

We’ll create happier memories next time! Until then!

*This Melaka Blog Series includes :

Apr

GOOD DAY FROM GEORGE TOWN, PENANG!

By docgelo 12 Comments

Categories: FAMILY : LOVE KO 'TO, ILOVEPHOTOS, MALAYSIA and TRAVEL
Tags: a day in a life of, amateur photography, appreciation, armenian street, breakfast, cannon street, cheese roti, chew jetty, chew jetty penang, docgelo, expat blog, expat blogger, expat in malaysia, expatriate, family, food in malaysia, george town penang, heritage sites penang, heritage trail george town penang, inspiration, jetty, life in asia, life in malaysia, lifes abroad, lifestyle, lifestyle blog, lifestyle blogger, morning, murals, murals in george town, murals in penang, must eat in penang, must visit in malaysia, must visit in penang, nikon D7000, penang malaysia, photography, photos, photos taken by nikon, restoran kapitan, roti canai, roti keju, street art, street arts, street arts in george town penang, sunrise, visit penang, weekend

Sunrise viewed from Chew Jetty, George Town, Penang, Malaysia. Saturday, 20 April 2013. Incidentally, I entered this photo in the HIPpix Challenge contest in Penang. If you like it and would like to support, kindly click this LINK HERE! and click the like button after the jump. Thanks!

Waking up early with my family on a Saturday morning just to watch the sunrise at one of the waterfront-settlements in George Town, Penang and stroll around a few streets simply to capture images randomly doesn’t happen on a daily basis. I consider it a bliss! It’s an absolute breather from our almost-routinary-life in Penang (read : work-home-work or for our son, Gabby, school-home-school).

Despite the challenges and uncertainties of living abroad (and the expenses, my goodness! We just recently paid fees for renewal of my Employment Pass and my family’s Dependent Passes on top of our monthly domestic bills), I’ve been constantly reminding Gabby how blessed and lucky we are for having opportunity to live in Penang. I’ve been hearing myself reminding our 8-year-old kiddo redundantly, that tourists and travelers still take efforts in saving money, plan for trips and book flights, bus or train rides to this incredibly charming UNESCO World Heritage Site, while we’re fortunate enough to experience the best of Penang anytime we wish because we’re currently based here.

So at around 6:30AM, Tina, Gabby and I hopped on the Rapid Penang Bus from our current home in Butterworth to Penang Sentral Bus Station and took the 12-minute-ferry-ride to George Town.

Gabby found a fun way at no cost to entertain himself while inside the ferry via Jellyfish spotting!

While Gabby and Tina were busy counting jellyfishes, I took the chance of going down the first level of the ferry; my very first time in three years, actually!

My lovely wife, Tina bitten by the shutter bug and became hooked on instagram, captured this…

The view of George Town from the ferry.

Then we hopped off the ferry and walked our way to Chew Jetty.

From Rapid Penang Bus Station in Weld Quay, Chew Jetty can easily be reached via few meters of strolling towards left. It has been a year exactly when I first visited this modest place (read my blog post HERE!); inevitably, changes happened over time.

I was so excited telling Tina that I will take her photo by the mural of one of the houses at Chew Jetty. It looked like this when I went there on my second visit last June 2012.

We were surprised to see this. Disappointed actually.

Previous mural of Lithuanian Artist, Ernest Zacharevic now dilapidated.

For reason unknown to us, the mural previously frequented by local and foreign tourists is now a memory.

As I am following George Town, Penang (Penang State Tourism) on its facebook account, I saw a photo they posted of a newly installed mural done by a local artist at Chew Jetty. We saw it but it’s already deleted by white paint; I didn’t take photo of it anymore (I hope one of the readers could explain something about this).

Nonetheless, we’re still thankful to see the fire ball rising from the East!

Sunrise reminds us to be constantly grateful of our intangible blessings!

My photos don’t do it justice.

Moving on, I pointed to Gabby handmade fish baskets used by the dwellers at Chew Jetty in fishing. Although I’m not not sure whether those baskets are for catching crabs, shrimps or prawns or fish.

Admittedly, I’m happy to see my wife enjoying her new past time : Instagramming! She’s now fond of taking photos by her ipod and at times, borrows the camera from my neck and takes her own shots. While she’s doing her thing, I did my own captures of some interesting things at Chew Jetty.
Here are a couple of beautiful cacti…

These clan houses by the descendants of Chew family must be preserved on stilts the way the were built ages ago as mandated by UNESCO.

From Chew Jetty, we crossed the street and went straight to Lebuh Armenian. There, another favorite Ernest Zacharevic mural greeted us. It’s difficult to imagine for this mural to be broken down, it’s so fun to look at. Actually, there was a time that someone tried to destroy it by spilling liquid (was it milk or some paint?); thankfully, they managed to restore it. It remains to be one of the tourist-drawers in Pulau Pinang. Hopefully, the authorities can maintain it.

Then Gabby started asking where to eat breakfast. He said he’s OK with Restoran Kapitan and was craving for some Cheese Naan. Since the streets and the scenes en route to Kapitan were picturesque, Tina and I spent a few minutes of taking photos.

Goofed in front of a whimsically painted doors.

And rode the trishaw on display for that photo-op.

I find this corner of Armenian and Cannon Streets attractive. I know I shall miss this spot one day.

Breakfast, actually more like of our brunch was at one of our favorites, Restoran Kapitan at the junction of Pitt and Chulia Streets.

Roti Keju or Cheese Roti and curried dips, FTW!

First time to try Roti Tisu from Restoran Kapitan and frankly, I liked the version from the other Indian eatery in the heart of Little India. They serve Roti Tisu with strawberry syrup and condensed milk there. Yummier, I think.

Washed down everything with Iced Blended Chocolate and Mango Lassi.

Refreshingly good!

Hopped on the Rapid Penang Bus from Chulia Street to Komtar and went to Carrefour grocery for a little grocery shopping.

Someone’s happy with his chocolate cereal purchase!

It was a Saturday morning well spent.

“Count your blessings. Once you realize how valuable you are and how much you have going for you, the smiles will return, the sun will break out, the music will play, and you will finally be able to move forward the life that God intended for you with grace, strength, courage, and confidence.” ~Mandino, Og

Apr

MELAKA! MALACCA! FOOD PORN!

By docgelo 8 Comments

*My family – Tina & Gabby at Restoran Famosa, Jonker Street, Malacca

Our three days and two nights unplanned trip to Malacca was made memorable not only because of the sights that we enjoyed exploring for the very first time but more so, tasting its local dishes and a few personal favorites. So many foods, so little time! I wished I did a little research prior to the trip and of course, it could’ve been better if we stayed longer. Nonetheless, we’re grateful and wouldn’t mind traveling 7 hours from our current base in Penang to revisit Melaka when time, chance and budget allow.

To say that Malacca is a food haven is absolutely an understatement. Similar to George Town, Penang, Malacca is a gastronomic paradise! Almost every corner has something to delight even the ones with most discriminating taste. Here’s this blog’s usual shameless display of what we feasted…

*Chicken Rice Balls from a restaurant in Melaka Sentral Bus Station

The moment we arrived in Melaka Sentral via 2-hour-and-19-ringgit-bus-ride from Larkin Bus Station in Johor Bahru, Tina, Gabby and I decided to do the first in the list of our priorities. EAT! While the kiddo was busy buying his 7-11 slurpee and I attended to our luggage and backpacks, the wifey scouted a few restaurants inside the bus station complex and selected one. That awesome moment happened! The very first time for us to eat Chicken Rice Balls that, correct me if I’m wrong, uniquely Melaka.

I’m guessing those rice balls paired with steamed chicken meat, were boiled in chicken stock. I liked it, Tina did not. To each his own.

*Chicken Chop and Noodle dish with name that slipped my memory but with a delicious taste to remember! Naks!

After several minutes and camera clicks in front of Christ Church Melaka, we crossed the street and saw this stall by the Melaka River selling freshly fried Spiral Potatoes. It was 3-ringgit and sour cream flavored happiness for Gabby!

*Savoring his Sour and Cream Spiral Potato from Melaka!

Second day was Easter Sunday and after having simple but incredibly charming dining experience at The Baboon House Malacca (blog post HERE!), we effortlessly killed time by doing crazy things (Tina was Instagramming) and sipping milk teas and iced blended fruity drinks from Ochado. Refreshing! Best, they got free and fast wifi too!

*I left a mark on the graffitti wall.

*Instagram moment!

Go try Ochado whenever you find yourself in Melaka! It’s easy to spot as it’s located at the corner where Jonker Street begins.

*Cappuccino, Mocha and Iced Blended Chocolate from Casa Del Rio Cafe.

After dinner at Restoran Famosa in Jonker Street, we opted to stretch more our last night in Melaka. We walked and walked and next time we knew, we were all seated inside the very romantic and hip, Casa Del Rio Cafe.

*Romantic and relaxing ambiance by the Malacca River.

Located by the Melaka River, in the facade of the premier hotel, Casa Del Rio, we were never intimidated by its stylish and inviting interiors; surprisingly, prices were even pocket-friendly than our favorite Starbucks Coffee. The menu’s promising too! They serve breakfast meals, lunch and even steamboat buffet for dinner.

*Hollywood legends and icons on the walls! If only walls could talk…. Don’t you just love this corner?

Tina had cappuccino, Mocha for me, Iced Blended Chocoalte for Gabby. They also have cakes and other dishes but we’re very satiated with the dinner we had at Restoran Famosa.

Just before sitting inside Casa Del Rio Cafe, we had our dinner at Restoran Famosa along Jonker Street. Here’s what we ordered :

*Beancurd in Oyster Sauce.

Tina found it too salty while it’s fine with my palates. I also liked the consistency of the beancurd!

*Roasted Chicken.

Either roasted or steamed, ayam or chicken is almost obligatory to eat when you’re anywhere in Malaysia.

*Chicken Rice Balls from Restoran Famosa

They’ve got smaller versions of Chicken Rice Balls compared to the ones we had in Melaka Sentral. Restoran Famosa’s menu had it at 30 sen (cents) each.

*Pork Barbecue.

It was a consensus decision to order Roasted Pork. When we did, the waitress told us, “Finished!” The next best thing was to order the second best, BBQ. It was a different flavor compared to BBQ we have in Manila. It was like the common pork asado or Chinese pork something in Chinatown eateries in our country.

*A simple Easter Sunday Malaccan Family Feast!

*My plate!

No Malaysian meal is complete without chilli sauce!

*Hotta! Hotta!

The highlight of our Malaccan food tripping was to taste their version of Cendol. To start with, I loved it. I fell in love it on the first scoop! Sorry Cendol in Penang Road, I liked you but Melaka Cendol won my heart and taste buds! Presentation-wise, each bowl looks clean and hygienic, the ingredients composed of red beans, finely shaved ice and that green thingy-cendol, were all better tasting than, dare I say, the one in Jalan Penang.

The difference lies on their use of Gula (sugar) Melaka…

Caramelized Gula Melaka in coconut milk : Killer combination! It reminded me of muscovado or unrefined brown sugar from my country. Sarap! Sedap! Delicious!

*Yummy!!!

We loved everything we ate in Melaka! We cannot wait to go back to eat more!

*Follow Tina on Ig @teenasantos, follow me on Ig @iamdocgelo

This is NOT a sponsored post.

*This Melaka Blog Series includes :

We Wore Baba & Nyonya Traditional Attires
The Baboon House Malacca
Malacca River Cruise
Food Porn!!!
To be continued…

Apr

MELAKA MEMORIES : MALACCA RIVER CRUISE

By docgelo 19 Comments

*Ornate details of the elegantly handsome Victoria Regina fountain in front of Christ Church Melaka

The words on the tip of the fountain (not in photo) reads:

“Victoria Regina 1837-1901, erected by the people of Malacca in memory of a great Queen 1904.”

In so many ways, Melaka is as a family-friendly destination. Along with her heritage trail that preserved colonial structures from her historic past, is a bunch of modern attractions from theme parks to charming coffee shops and teeming with food stalls and eateries and night bazaars and whatnot, that effortlessly appeal to all ages. I must admit, Tina, Gabby and I were happy with our entire experience despite the fact that our three-day-two-night-family-trip was so unplanned, without hotel reservation and a limited budget at hand, everything surprisingly went smoothly and what really mattered most :

we all had fun!

In case you missed the previous posts on this series : On the afternoon of Black Saturday of 2013, we found ourselves in Malacca instead of crossing the southern Malaysian border on foot to revisit Singapore for a supposed sponsored trip (which was rescheduled last minute to fourth week of May due to unforseen circumstances; we cannot wait!). Cliche as it may sound, it was truly a blessing in disguise as we finally discovered Melaka; we loved every moment we spent there to bits.

One of the highlights of our short break to one of Malaysia’s UNESCO World Heritage Sites, was embarking on the touristy boat ride via the Malacca River Cruise.

*Doing that touristy thing!

Before we rode the boat for that famous river cruise, we paid an almost obligatory visit to the iconic landmark, the Dutch Protestant, Christ Church Melaka…

*Arguably, one of the most photographed places in entire Malaysia, the Christ Church Melaka

We admired that Queen Victoria fountain in front of the church…

And never missed to take tons of photos, of course (oh, one of those things we do best! lol).

*Heavily armed and dangerous! lol

*Happy we were here!

Christ Church Melaka, the Clock Tower and the Stadhuys Museum that was previously the administrative office, all in terracotta red color make up the Dutch Square or Red Square.

After quick homage to those must-visit-spots, we walked our way to the jetty where ticket booth to the Melaka River Cruise is located.

*I love this photo! While my lovely wife was ever ready for a close up, our adorable son’s busy with munching! Behind my family are another tourist drawers to Melaka -those overly adorned trishaws!

Few steps more, et voila! The area where the 45-minute-river-cruise starts. No, we didn’t ride that galleon ship, hahaha! I wish!

We bought 15 rinngit per adult tickets and 7 ringgit per kid. This is Malaysia so admission rates are higher foreigners. No further questions.

Finally, we had a glimpse our ride…

It was our first time in Melaka and I was the most excited. “Hey, wait, honey, Gabby. Picture!”

The sight reminded me of the title of a movie of my youth, ”A River Runs Through It.”

All aboard! Here we go!

The boat passed under several pedestrian bridges that were vividly lighted by greens, blues and a few more hues at dusk.

“On your right is the St. Francis Church…. on your left is….this…and that…” heard from the recorded tour commentaries. With a reasonable price for the tour, I could not hope for a better interactive and live tour guiding. Or perhaps, there’s a boat with an actual tour guide but we had it otherwise.

Moving on, the river is cleaner than I expected. I personally liked the presence of few pedestrian bridges that link streets along the river. Even delighted with the fact that no bridge was built the same. Each has its own design and character.

River trees and mangroves keep the river alive.

Here’s hoping the authorities could do more efforts in maintaining cleanliness in and along the river.

Read somewhere that Melaka River was called, “Venice of the East.” Wow! Thankfully, it didn’t stink. Keep up the cleanliness, please!

Major attractions to the Malacca River Cruise were the colorful murals on the shop houses and inns and restaurants and residential and commercial buildings along the waters. It was something we had not seen before! Beautiful!

Spot the following : Vegetables, Moon Cake, Dim Sums, Rafflesia…

Look, there’s a monorail!

Monorail by the river. Amazing!

The 45-minute-10-kilometer-river cruise could also be a hop-on, hop-off for passengers as there are a few jetties at one side. One group of tourist from our boat decided to alight after the boat took a turn at the river’s end to go back from where we started.

And it’s true that the best way to experience Malacca River Cruise is between 6 to 7PM (or onwards) when the sky starts to become blue. If you must know, sun down in Malaysia comes after 7:30PM or so.

May not be a perfect photo but would love to share!

I’m guessing, this is the Eye of Malacca…

Passed under those well-lit pedestrian bridges…

More murals…

Blurry and imperfect and I’m so embracing it!

Red, red, red!

Then my family and I opted to hop off just in front of Christ Church Melaka in the Dutch Square…

Eenie minie miny moe…

There were a choices of restaurants and coffee shops on both sides of the river that apparently offer a romatic ambiance at night. I asked Tina if she wanted to have a dinner in any of those but she thought it might be more costly. We didn’t waste time and strolled our way to the nearby Jonker Street (I’ll have a separate blog post about it).

For now, here’s a glimpse of Jonker Street…

In my opinion, the Malacca River experience is never complete if one only saw her beauty from the boat. The river is totally different when the sun is up! Murals provide you another perspective at daytime.

Oops, do you see those dilapidated walls on the photo below? Something’s crying out loud for an urgent and careful restoration!

Small inns and guesthouses for backpackers (If we only knew they’re here!), mini-groceries and eateries are where the murals on. We spotted a mini-pasar (mini-mart) and had some thirst-quenchers. Look at us, mag-ama, tambay sa Melaka! lol

I was saddened by the sight that my most favorite mural along the Malacca River was dilapidated too! Authorities, when can you restore this?

Had we known that guesthouses and inns are what most of these painted walls are made of, we could’ve spent our two nights in one of them.

Stroll. Pause. Smile. Picture. Repeat. It’s a vicious yet happy cycle! Therapeutic actually! :D

The Malaccans know how to do it! Look at these orchids and other blooms and greens! Bravo!!!

Food murals along the Melaka River. Nice!

Photos, more photos!!!

My favorite mural, that Chinese Lion!

Another mural not to be overlooked…

Worries were melted, nothing in mind but fun, fun, fun with the family!

We’ll cherish all our fun and colorful memories from Melaka forever!

*This Melaka Blog Series includes :

We Wore Baba & Nyonya Traditional Attires
The Baboon House Malacca
Malacca River Cruise
To be continued…

*Since we had a CHANGE of travel destination from supposed Singapore to Malacca, this is my entry to WEEKLY PHOTO CHALLENGE : CHANGE

Apr

WE WON A SMARTPHONE AND MORE!

By docgelo 5 Comments

Categories: FAMILY : LOVE KO 'TO and MALAYSIA
Tags: blog, blogging contest, charity, doc gelo, docgelo, family, freebies, fun, generosity, Life, ninetology smartphone, ninetoloigy malaysia, online contest, orphanages, smartphone, technology

*Photos taken in our apartment in Butterworth, Penang.

Two Malaysian delivery men came to my desk at the Faculty Room to hand in the parcel containing the smartphone that I won unexpectedly, after blogging our experience when we joined local bloggers here in visiting 3 orphanages in Pulau Pinang (Penang Island) last February.

I volunteered to be a part of the activity via facebook and was happier after they gave their nods for Gabby to tag along. Except the fact that lunch was provided by sponsors, Subway sandwiches and Chatime Malaysia, I had no idea that the other sponsor, Ninetology Malaysia would give out 3 tablets (one was given away to a lucky blogger-participant inside our shuttle bus just before we parted ways after the activity) and 6 smartphone units after blogging the 3 orphanages we visited for people particularly from Penang to be aware of them, and at least reach out to those who could render help.

As I mentioned already on my facebook post, I didn’t expect anything in return when Gabby and I decided to spend an entire Sunday to visit the 3 orphanages in Penang and participate in the feeding program but GOD IS GOOD!!! The experience taught and defined to Gabby what charity and generosity are all about plus, we got to win a smartphone! Yeehaa! It might not be an iPhone but the memories that came with it were absolutely priceless!

If you’ve missed those blog posts, here are the links with details about the orphanages :

Special thanks to Ninetology Malaysia and to the organizers of this worthwhile activity, Responsible Blogging 2013.

Apr

THE BABOON HOUSE, MALACCA

By docgelo 58 Comments

Stepping inside this incredibly quaint cafe cum art gallery after walking several meters along those narrow and congested streets, under the scorching heat of Malaysian sun, from attending an Easter Sunday Mass at Christ Church Melaka, was truly a welcome respite. Its cool, soothing and relaxing ambiance was more than enough to attract the anxiously hungry tourists in us.

I first learned about The Baboon House after Filipino travel blogger, Riz of www.lamyerda.com posted a photo of a mouthwatering beef burger in her instagram & facebook; I left a comment under the photo that I’ll try to find it when we get a chance to visit Malacca. My family and I discovered not only a deliciously prepared plate of uncommercialized beef burger with home made patties but a lovely chill out place with lush tropical greens and fascinating art works amidst a formerly abandoned traditional shop house that was creatively restored to the beauty that it is now.

Art and nature appreciation flowed spontaneously. I was silently jumping for joy when Tina and Gabby loved the place too. Who would not fall in love with this gem at the heart of one of Malaysia’s UNESCO World Heritage Sites?

That ray of light in the middle of greenery made the moment even more inviting!

Obviously, The Baboon House Malacca is among those originally-themed eateries and coffee shops that exist as a breather from the very common and what we considered our default-option-fast food dining (Malaysia, in general has a volume of charming cafes from George Town, Penang to Melaka and else where; check out some blog links about our other dining experiences below). We don’t enjoy airy courtyards with such visual feast in ordinary spaces, much more on a daily basis.

I liked the fact that the owners chose not to fully renovate the place as everything looked art to me from its dilapidated walls to every creeping leaves and interesting corners. There are so much to appreciate in this unique Melakan place.

It has few serene and tranquil nooks where one can savor luxurious quiet moments via reading a book or browsing magazines and be unmindful of the volume of diners that come and go. With fast and free wifi access, quick and friendly service, affordable and wide variety on the menu, I think we can spend an entire lazy day inside The Baboon House Malacca.

Happy we were here!

On the gastronomic department, we were not disappointed too. Surprisingly, I enjoyed one of the most refreshing Mango Smoothie I’ve ever tasted; it was so good I simply had to order an extra glass! It looked gorgeously stunning too!

While Gabby ordered the usual Iced Lemon Tea, I paired that Mango Smoothie with Baboon House Beef Burger which was served huge chunks of potato wedges and coleslaw. Generous and tasteful serving.

So delish!

Gabby favored Baboon House’s Honey Mustard Chicken Burger. The boy’s delighted, he finished the entire plate.

Gabby was satisfied! That mattered the most!

While my lovely wife, Tina sampled a plateful Bacon Sandwich that she paired with a cup of cappuccino, approrpiately served with a butter cookie. She was happy too, she had it on instagram (follow her @teenasantos on Ig) !

Our dining experience at The Baboon House was so beautiful; I wish we could own like one someday.

Melaka! Malacca! We love you to bits and we hope to be back!

*This is NOT a sponsored post. Thank you very much for everything, The Baboon House!

The Baboon House | 89 Jalan Tun Tan Cheng Lock (Herreen Street), Malacca, Malaysia.

*This Melaka Blog Series includes :

We Wore Baba & Nyonya Traditional Attires
The Baboon House Malacca
To be continued…

Some fascinating coffee shops and eateries with unique ambiance that we tried in George Town, Penang :

This post is also my entry to WEEKLY PHOTO CHALLENGE : COLOR

>><<

Apr

MELAKA! MALACCA!

By docgelo 18 Comments

Rocking the Baba, Nyonya Malaysian traditional attires | Christ Church Melaka, 31 March 2013.

“All journeys have secret destinations of which the traveler is unaware.” – Martin Buber

We’re supposed to be in Singapore again from March 30 to midnight of April 2, 2013 but because of unforseen and inevitable circumstance that happened the last minute when we’re already in Johor Bahru (the state of Malaysia at the border prior to Singapore) on the daybreak of Black Saturday, our sponsors -a hotel in Singapore and an a-theme-park-access-card, and my family agreed that the sponsored trip to revisit the Lion City for blog review and feature is best rescheduled to last week of May 2013. Although cliche as it may sound, my family and I considered it a blessing in disguise because as of morning of April 2, 2013, our salaries for the month of March are yet to be issued by our employer, so pushing through with that much-anticipated Singapore adventure could’ve been a challenge on the pocket. Nonetheless, we’re still thankful to the sponsors for such invitation!

After almost 10 hours of travel via bus from Penang to Johor Bahru and learned that the trip was rescheduled, we didn’t dwell on the hassle but opted for the next best thing (affordable too!). Tina, Gabby and I grabbed quick breakfast bites from McDonald’s at Larkin Bus Station and purchased bus tickets at 19 ringgit each from JB to Melaka for that 9:30AM bus ride. We didn’t want to spoil everything and at least, we became excited to experience a place that’s new to our senses.

Without any hotel reservation and no itinerary at hand, we slept the 2 hour bus ride from Larkin Bus Station in Johor Bahru to Melaka Sentral in Malacca. And the rest was a 3D2N of nothing but family bonding, food and fun! Randomly, Beyond Toxicity will take you to our first ever Melaka trip!

Unplanned, Spontaneous, Random Trip to Malacca : Here we go!

On our second day in Melaka, we attended the 8:30AM Easter Sunday Mass at one of the most iconic landmarks in this UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Dutch Protestant Church, Christ Church Melaka. Yes, we’re Catholics and experiencing other religious service of Christian faith in a completely new place to us was truly warm and welcoming. The mass that ended after 2 hours with full band and choir singing, was so similar to Catholic masses in order & sequence. After coming out of the church with smiles on our faces, holding Easter eggs and tiny lemon cake slices given by the choir members and the priests, Tina spotted two people with a clothesline of Malaysian traditional attires for rent at 7 ringgit (USD 2.26) per adult, 5 ringgit (USD 1.60) per kid. Next scenes unfolded ~ she asked me, “Gusto mo?” (“Do you like?”), then she began choosing what to wear for a few minutes of photo-op. Why not, choc nut?

While Malaysia is known to be a cultural melting pot in Southeast Asia, Baba and Nyonya in Penang and Melaka (also in Singapore and Indonesia) are people with rich and fascinating heritage. When Chinese, mostly traders, came to Malaysia and married Malays, Peranakan or descendants in Malay term were born. The term, Baba refers to male and Nyonya to female. Interestingly, Chinese culture and traditions were assimitated to Malay cutoms.

Wearing the Baba and Nyonya traditional attires for the moment was such an experience. Admittedly, the part could’ve been complete if we found time to visit the Baba & Nyonya Heritage Museum. Now that’s a good reason among many others, to revisit Melaka given another chance in the future.

Luckily, there was a Baba costume that fits my size, haha! While Gabby’s too big for the little Baba outfit, he donned Baju Melayu instead, complete with red sampin, a sarong wrapped around his hips. In our eyes, he looked like a very regal Malaysian prince!

Et voila! A Filipino family in Malaysian cultural outfits in front of Christ Church Melaka!

With permission, Tina took a shot of the next customer who rented another colorful Malaysian wear, an adorable little tourist who came with her parents too. The frame could’ve been nicer if we paired her with Gabby, hehehe!

Too cute for words!

Bagay po ba?

Before some closed minded ones conclude that we’re not being proud of our roots and prefer to wear foreign traditional attires, here’s a photo of our family taken at Mines View Park in Baguio City, Philippines that I’ve unearthed from this site’s previous posts. All for the sake of FUN!

In traditional attires from Northern Philippines. Blog post HERE!

*This Melaka Blog Series includes :

We Wore Baba & Nyonya Traditional Attires
The Baboon House Malacca
To be continued…

>><<

Mar

OUR FAMILY WEEKEND INDULGENCE AT EASTIN HOTEL PENANG

By docgelo 12 Comments

Categories: FAMILY : LOVE KO 'TO, MALAYSIA and TRAVEL
Tags: TRAVEL, food, buffet, family, Life, foodie, vacation, weekend, Japanese food, seafood, Eat all you can, Eat all you want, lifestyle, doc gelo, docgelo, food blog, sushi, tempura, sashimi, sukiyaki, okonomiyaki, kani tempura, travel blog, travel blogger, family blog, ebi tempura, travelling, penang, malaysia, expat, queensbay mall, queensbay mall penang, soft shelled crab, bayan lepas, hotels in penang, high tea, tea time, hotels in penang malaysia, staycation, must see in penang malaysia, hotel accomodation, blog review, lifestyle blog, halal food, lifestyle blogger, expatriate in malaysia, expatriate in penang, must eat in penang, eastin, eastin hotel, eastin hotel penang, review of eastin hotel, hotels in penang near the airport, malls in penang, buffets in malaysia, buffets in penang, the lounge, swez brasserie, swez brasserie at eastin hotel penang, hotel buffets, suite, suite room, eastin deluxe, eastin deluxe suite, hi tea, prawn tempura, crab tempura

A priceless scenic ocean view, a fantastic glimpse of Penang Bridge by the window and the warmest greetings on the nicest card welcomed my family and I last Saturday, 23rd March 2013, when we were invited to spend a usual weekend turned extraordinary one in Eastin Hotel Penang.

One of the sweetest greeting cards I’ve ever received.

Accessibility is one of the best selling points of Eastin Hotel Penang. Whether you are coming from Penang International Airport, Penang Mainland or Seberang Prai via the iconic Penang Bridge, or one of Malaysia’s World Heritage Sites, George Town, Eastin Hotel Penang is just located a few minutes away either by public and tourist buses, private cars or ferry. Best, the hotel’s a stone throw away from hawker food stalls where the foodie in you can sample cheap and authentic local dishes from Malay, Indian and Chinese cuisines (although you can also savor them from the hotel’s F&B outlets’ menu), and adjacently located with one of the island’s most visited and largest malls, Queensbay Mall!

With almost 3 years of working and living in Penang, it was only last weekend that we set foot in Eastin Hotel; I thought it was never too late to discover another gem in this side of Malaysia. We appreciate the invitation given by Eastin Hotel Penang for us to experience what makes them different and special from the rest.

From the hotel lobby, we were ushered by the most accomodating & friendliest staffs at the 11th floor and while on the lift, I had to ask them if all elevator units in the hotel are dimly lit. I got a positive response making me wish for a brighter lifts. Othe than that, excitement heightened.

It was a love at first sight!

We loved EASTIN DELUXE SUITE!!! Our 8-year-old-son, Gabby’s the happiest!

Jump for joy upon the sight of Eastin Deluxe Suite!

Now that blissful expression was taken before he opened the gifts from Eastin Hotel Penang. This defined how thoughtful and sweet the people behind this hotel are! Thank you very much!

First adjective that popped out upon the sight of our 56-square-meter, one bedroom suite : Minimalist.

First impression : Wow! (I wished I invented post-its! Running joke between Tina & I from the movie, Romy & Michelle High School Reunion, lol!) The room surely will appeal to businessmen and leisure travelers. But did it meet our family’s expectations? Read on.

While I do not deny the fact that seeing something whimsical or edgy is sometimes fascinating, having only what you need in the cleanest lines and tasteful interiors (without clutter and yes, without any plastic plants and floral curtains) is always fresh and rejuvenating.

We certainly had one of our restful sleeps in Eastin Deluxe Suite’s comfortable king-size-bed. I liked the bed so much however, I wished the pillows are a bit firmer. But Tina & Gabby had no qualms about the feathery pillows; it must be me! hahaha!

With free and fast wifi access, apparently, Eastin Deluxe Suite is perfect for businessmen, honeymooners, a bunch of friends and yes, even family with kids! It certainly provides no-frill-comfort and convenience.

The very spacious suite is equipped with a luxurious living area with a sofa that’s big enough to fit the hyperextended-me, a wardrobe that keeps a flat iron & an ironing board, a safe and a shoe rack; the room also has an LCD TV with cable channels (another unit is generously installed in the bedroom), and a complimentary bar.

The room’s huge enough to offer a separate powder room where Tina reigned for two days, a full length mirror, a toilet, shower & bath that’s even the most discerning ones would give a thumbs-up.

I didn’t feel short with the bath tub. The size of the tub effortlessly accomodated the 5’7 1/2″ in me (don’t forget the half inch in height! i reckon! lol); I had slept 30 minutes in the tub, almost fully soaked in lukewarm water. It was so relaxing it nearly melted all my worries away!

Go ahead, ask our son if he enjoyed the tub!

I also liked this little business corner at the living room. If only they have installed more than two sockets and a few more gadget plugs, it could’ve been better, nonetheless, it doesn’t disappoint.

Actually, the nook became more impressive at night when Gabby lorded it like a boss!

And just so you know, this one’s candid. Tee hee!

At few minutes past 5PM, we went to the lobby to meet again the Marketing & Communications people of Eastin Hotel Penang, Selene & Joanne. They exclusively toured my family and I for few minutes to some of Eastin Hotel Penang’s rooms and facilities. I must state, we enjoyed it as it doesn’t come on a daily basis!

Far from being boring, the hallways display vibrant visual attractions via abstract paintings that are continuously echoed in various rooms at Eastin Hotel Penang.

Our first stop : The Deluxe Rooms with Hillview (and the other Deluxe Room with Seaview). These well appointed rooms apparently were designed to provide both function and ease to either businessmen, leisure travelers or families. With such contemporary style and amenities, one’s definite of a comfortable and delightful stay.

Eastin Hotel Penang also has Friendly Suite Room, called as such because it’s built to cater to the needs of elderly and physically-challenged guests. Another room that’s remarkable with Eastin’s their Family Suite Room which at the time of our visit was occupied. Good to know, I told our hosts. Then there’s that Soho Duplex Room that has few similarities to Family Suite Room. Probably it’s unique in most, if not all premier hotels here in Penang. Let the succeeding photos defined how Soho Duplex Room looks like.

Beautiful, isn’t it? (My family and the Soho Duplex Room!)

Expectedly, Eastin Hotel Penang also has a fitness center, a spa (not in photo) and a swimming pool.

Located at the third level of the hotel, the swimming pool gives everyone a sweeping view of the skyline, roads leading to Penang International Airport and yes, Queensbay Mall! Did we take a dip? Negative. Not because we didn’t feel like it but Gabby preferred to savor our suite the next morning after the buffet breakfast; told you it was that relaxing! But the swimming pool looks really inviting!

Passing through hallways of Eastin Hotel Penang, we saw some guests interviewing applicants for jobs, proving that Eastin caters to businessmen and the like. We also peeked at its function rooms and ballrooms where special events and momentous occasions are usually celebrated.

After that brief hotel tour, we trooped to the Executive Lounge which is only accessible by hotel guests who upgrade their packages. With more soothing ambiance, wonderful view of the ocean, contemporary and minimalist interiors, and a shelf with reading materials from travel & fashion magazines to broadsheets can be savored over a free flowing cups of coffee or tea, sodas or wine and some cheese, English scones, sushi, bite-size pizza, cold cuts and more! Here’s a peek at our late afternoon tea time!

Yum, yum, yum!

The High Tea at the Executive Lounge is a great prelude to the delicious dinner buffet we had! Did I already mention that this spot also serves breakfast? Courteous & efficient staff, quick and attentive service. Delicious bites. Awesome, isn’t it?

No captions needed; the smiles said it all!

JAPANESE DINNER BUFFET @ SWEZ BRASSERIE, EASTIN HOTEL PENANG

One of the highlights of our staycation at Eastin Hotel Penang was the Japanese Dinner Buffet hosted by none other than, Swez Brasserie’s Senior Sous Chef, Daniel Tan. Chef Daniel heads the Swez Brasserie where he and his team offer a wide variety of international and local favorites. It was a pleasure meeting him as Gabby desires to become a chef someday. Talking to the main man responsible for the sumptuous spread was such a nice opportunity. While Tina and Gabby were busy filling their dinner plates, Chef Daniel casually informed me that everything in the buffet is Halal making me more impressed as I somehow knew how challenging Japanese cuisine to be done with no pork or its derivatives (Read : No Pork Tonkatsu!). I told Chef Daniel that despite I’m far from being a food critic and a no authority in Japanese cuisine, my palates have tasted authentic Japanese dishes during my 14-day-trip in Tokyo back in 2005. The dinner buffet, to simply put it, was satisfyingly good! My family and I were pleased with what he and his team prepared. Bravo, Chef Daniel!

Freshest sashimi! Yummy!!!

Sharkfin’s soup, sushi, sashimi and more!

How could you not be impressed with this Japanese themed eat-all-you-want dinner being offered every Saturdays in Swez Brasserie at Eastin Hotel Penang with OKONOMIYAKI (the so-called Japanese pizza), SOFT SHELLED CRABS that aren’t usual in other hotel buffets and so much more? Other than a variety of sushi and sashimi, they also have one of my ulitmate favorites, that sweet and salty beefy (they have chicken too) SUKIYAKI!!! Not to forget, Chef Daniel offered to do a platter of kani, ebi and veggie tempura for all of us after learning Gabby likes it!

Oishii!!!

Shameless display of one of my plates! Sukiyaki, Okonomiyaki, Unagi, Baked Oysters, Salmon, and those Skewered Grilled Beef – so tasteful and very tender!

Desserts were Japanese themed too! There were mochi and some jelly balls of some sorts! Interestingly good!

We didn’t miss the opportunity to have a photo-op with Chef Daniel, a couple of friendly staffs of Swez Brasserie and the ladies behind the MarCom of Eastin Hotel Penang, Selene and Joanne. Thank you so much!

THE LOBBY LOUNGE @ EASTIN HOTEL PENANG

Just when we thought the day was over, Selene and Joanne led us to the opposite end of the lobby where The Lobby Lounge is located. We met the manager of the bar, had some drinks from their menu (Mojito, Singapore Sling, Strawberry Ice Cream Blend and Kiwi mixed Shake), watched and met the Filipina singer after their set and absorbed all in and capped the night!

BREAKFAST BUFFET @ SWEZ BRASSERIE, EASTIN HOTEL PENANG

We woke up with excitement to sample the breakfast offering! Good Sunday morning, Eastin!

I was silently jumping for joy seeing two choices of congee (plain & seafood congee filled with shrimps and scallops) with several choices of toppings. Too perfect to warm my tummy!

Char siew pao, prawn dumplings, and other dim sums, beef bacon strips, (and another favorite of Tina and me; drum roll please) smoked salmon, assorted fresh fruit slices, strawberry and mixed berries yoghurt, DIY-salad were some of the offerings on the spread we enjoyed. Gabby had fresh juices while the coffee addicts in Tina and I were truly satisfied.

One of the best tasting Congee!

So many food, so little time!

HIGH TEA | SUNDAY LUNCH BUFFET @ SWEZ BRASSERIE, EASTIN HOTEL PENANG

Our overnight staycation at Eastin Hotel Penang was nothing but pleasant accomodation and nearly non-stop gastronomic feasts! What a blessing! Few hours after a very heavy breakfast came lunch time! The 3 of us avoided rice intentionally to sample a little bit of almost everything from the High Tea spread.

There were many local dishes featured in Swez Brasserie’s Sunday High Tea - Rendang, Curry, Nasi Lemak, Sotong & Udang Dishes, but my eyes were attracted to this Mixed Veggies while my palates loved their version of Chicken Satay that blended so well with its Peanut Sauce (some satay I’ve previously tasted had overpowering gingery taste; this one’s from Eastin tasted just fine). The Roasted Duck & Chicken were also must-sample! However, the Chicken Shawarma was a let down according to Tina.

Plates for the three of us-self-proclaimed foodies!

Bow!

The Children’s Corner at Swez Brasserie’s High Tea | Lunch Buffet last Sunday was something commendable! Our kiddo’s happy with the “treasures” he found on that spread!

Bubur Gandum (Wheat Sweet Porridge)-Malaysian equivalent to Philippine’s Guinataang Mais. LIKE!!!

I’m already so full but I wanted to sample their version of another popular Malaysian dessert – Ais Kacang (reminds me so much of the Filipino, Halo-halo). When I went to its station, the Assistant Sous Chef suggested to his junior to make a colorful Ais Kacang, something that will look extra pleasing to the cam. As per his instruction, my bowl of Ais Kacang was made of all the sweet ingredients on the table, and instead of having them under the dome of shaved ice, mine had everything as toppings! Beautiful!

Tina and I ended our unforgettable digestive feasts with a cup of coffee but I made mine more sinful. I tried to marry the coffee and ice cream stations and made an affogato instead of the usual dose of caffeine!

The people of Eastin Hotel were super generous, they even allowed us to avail of a late-check-out at 2PM!

Despite our very short stay at Eastin Hotel Penang, our family felt so at ease with their hospitable and courteous service, comfortable and spacious room, guest-friendly amenities and very wide variety of delicious treats! Who says Eastin Hotel Penang is only for businessmen? It’s so family-friendly too!

Thank you very much, Eastin Hotel Penang!

We’re more than grateful with the experience!

My family and I can proudly say that we highly recommend Eastin Hotel Penang!

EASTIN HOTEL PENANG | 1 Solok Bayan Indah, Queensbay 11900 Bayan Lepas, Penang, Malaysia | www.eastinhotel-penang.com

>><<

*While this is a sponsored post, all words and opinions on this blog aren’t influenced and remain 100% my own.

Special thanks goes to Criz Lai of www.crizfood.com

Mar

2013 MINISTRY OF TOURISM MALAYSIA BEST EXPAT BLOG AWARD!

By docgelo 32 Comments

2013 March 6th, Wednesday.

2013 Malaysia International Tourism Conference & Blog Awards | MITBCA

Kuala Lumpur Convention Centre.

Beyond Toxicity @ docgelo.com is named

2013 Best Expat-Malaysia-My-Second-Home-Blog Award Winner!

Awarding the trophy was the honorable Tourism Malaysia Minister Dato’ Sri Dr. Ng Yen Yen

The scene was surreal. Almost deja vu of what happened last year…

2012 MITBCA blog post HERE!!!

It’s truly an honor to receive another recognition for this personal passion, particularly of which 80% came from public voting. I cannot be grateful enough to all those who follow and read this site since I started this virtual home back in 2007 in the Philippines, to those who remain loyal readers and commenters after we have moved to Penang, Malaysia to work and of course, thank you to those who voted for my blog to win last year and this year’s MITBCA! Your support is absolutely priceless!

Terima Kasih to Ministry of Tourism Malaysia and all the people behind MITBCA for appreciating and lifting the spirits of movers of Tourism and bloggers in Malaysia in general. Awards like this is certainly inspiring and motivating! Maraming Salamat po at Mabuhay po kayo!

Similar to last year’s event, MITBCA offered two-day-bloggers conference for free, but because I chose to limit my absences from work in Penang, I decided to attend the awards night and skipped the meeting of the like-minds and international movers in social media including a bunch of fellow Filipino bloggers. That was a wrong move from me. I could’ve learned so much from them but to regret is futile. Nonetheless, I met them in the Gala Dinner & Awards Night that was far better than last year’s. Proof that collective efforts have been put just to nail this year’s success of MITBCA! Kudos to everyone involved! The ceremony was nothing short of fantastic!

The venue was bigger and more sophisticated. The Kuala Lumpur Convention Centre, no less!

I arrived of course, with TEAM DOCGELO; who else but my loving wife, Tina & our bundle of joy and pride, Gabby!

We’re so happy to meet again Ms. Emila Yusof of emilayusof.com, two-time-winner of Best Tourism Lifestyle Blog Award from MITBCA and who happens to be the Malaysian Illustrator and Children’s Book Author who custom-made my very own blog header! I am one of his huge fans and she remains an inspiration!

After the cocktail, came the Gala Dinner & Awards Night proper. The mood inside the venue was festive!

The view from where we sat.

Drum roll, please! Let the show begin!

The honorable people behind the Ministry of Tourism Malaysia, Malaysia Social Media Chamber and MITBCA shared engaging and powerful words about the reasons of our gathering.

Beautiful and talented Malaysian performers lorded the stage!

While local entertainers were doing their great parts on stage, we were busy dunking our forks and scooping our spoons to the delightful dinner they prepared. There were visual and gastronomic treats! It was a complete sensory feast!

Speakers in the Bloggers’ Conference were awarded by plaques; I wished I captured them all.
Here’s Malaysian Celebrity Chef (second from left of the photo below), Nik Michael Imran…

And the speakers from where I came from, the Philippines! Here’s Vince Golangco (second from left on the photo below) of www.wheninmanila.com.

Blogie Robillo (second from left of the photo below) of www.robilloblog.com

Tonyo Cruz (second from left of the photo below) of tonyocruz.com

It was flattering when one of my fellow Filipino Bloggers shouted, MABUHAY! when my name was called as one of the winners, even overwhelming when Tonyo Cruz himself, told me, “kinikilabutan kami to see someone in Barong on stage” (kindly seek Google Translate, thank you!)

Blogger-winners included Best Tourism Travel Blogger, Squall Chin of www.wretch.cc/blog/squallczk whom I first met in Singapore Blog Awards last 2012.

And again, Ms. Emila Yusof of emilayusof.com, winner once more of Best Tourism Lifestyle Blog Award. Bravo!

For complete list of winners, visit www.mitbca.com.

More than the awards and recognition, I thank the Lord for my loving and supportive family!

They’re my LIFE! I love you, honey! I love you, Gabby!

After the wonderful awards night, we walked a few steps to pay homage again to Malaysia’s magnificence, what else but the Petronas Twin Towers. En route, we dropped by Aquaria…

And just before midnight, our eyes set on those incredibly stunning twins again!

Malaysia, Thank you very much for everything!

To God be the Glory!

>><<

Feb

THE JALAN PENANG CENDOL EXPERIENCE

By docgelo 7 Comments

Categories: FAMILY : LOVE KO 'TO, FOOD & MORE FOOD!, MALAYSIA and TRAVEL
Tags: cendol, chendul, jalan penang cendol, malaysia food, penang road cendol, penang road chendol, what to eat in malaysia

Back in the early days of November 2012, I was staring lazily at my laptop and aimlessly tweeted my sweet craving for a dessert so uniquely Penang. CENDOL! Fast forward to few days after, the photo of cendol I posted on twitter gained 2,251 thumbs up, 322 shares and 94 comments from the followers of Penang State Tourism as its admin posted it on their George Town Penang facebook account. Of course, it’s not my photo but the people’s fondness for cendol that’s incredibly amazing! It felt so good I wasn’t alone craving for cendol! We’re almost an army! hahaha!

Truth be told, I enjoyed that tiny bowl of cendol inside a comfy restaurant along Jalan Penang and it’s not the same cendol everyone was raving about! Nonetheless, the taste and the flavor of this traditional Malaysian dessert was all there. And it’s more satisfyingly good that it looks on my photo.

Another chance to sample cendol came and I got to taste the version of a more popular local restaurant that’s deliciously served with vanilla ice cream. All my worries were melted with every heavenly scoop!

“The dessert’s basic ingredients are coconut milk, a worm-like jelly made from rice flour with green food coloring (usually derived from the pandan leaf), shaved ice and palm sugar. Other ingredients such as red beans, glutinous rice, grass jelly, creamed corn, might also be included.” -sourced via Wiki

Big deal! After almost 3 years of working and living with my wife and son in Penang, we finally tasted the ultimately famous cendol from a hawker stall tucked in one corner of Penang Road that local and foreign tourists and travelers crave for!

So how was our very first Jalan Penang Cendol experience? Apparently, Tina and Gabby liked it while I was left craving for another serving! The fusion of coconut milk and palm sugar was too perfect for my palate! It’s so refreshingly sweet!

Whether you’re a seasoned traveler or a pleasure-seeking tourist, a visit to George Town is incomplete without immersing your tastebuds to a heaping spoonful of cendol!

Burp! Until my next bowl!

>><<

Feb

LANGKAWI MEMORIES

By docgelo 20 Comments

Categories: FAMILY : LOVE KO 'TO, FOOD & MORE FOOD!, ILOVEPHOTOS, MALAYSIA and TRAVEL
Tags: affordable accomodation in langkawi, beach, beach in malaysia, beaches in asia, best chicken rice, best chicken rice in malaysia, cenang beach, cenang beach langkawi, chalet, cheap accomodation in langkawi, chicken satay, doc gelo, docgelo, duty free, duty free shops in langkawi, expat blog, expatriate in malaysia, family, family oriented blog, family vacation, fastfood, food, food in langkwi, good accomodation in langkawi, hotels in langkawi, hotels in malaysia, indian food, internet lounge at airport, jollibee, kedah malaysia, lagu, lagu beach blanket, lagu singapore, langkawi, langkawi beaches, langkawi island, Life, life at the beach, lifestyle, lifestyle blog, malaysian food, mcdonald's, must visit in langkawi, must visit in malaysia, naan, overseas blogger, pantai cenang, penang, penang international airport, roti canai, shopping in malaysia, tourism, tourism malaysia, travel blog, traveling, travelling, what to eat in langkawi, where to go in langkawi, where to go in malaysia, white lodge chalet, white lodge chalet langkawi

24-27 January 2013. Langkawi Island, Kedah, Malaysia. No matter how short, a vacation can do no wrong when spent with people you love most and love you back. Tina, Gabby and I took advantage of the long public holiday here in Malaysia from January 24-28, 2013 (well, not actually as January 25th, Friday wasn’t a holiday so we filed a leave from work to maximize the fun) because of their celebration of Prophet Mohammad’s Birthday (January 24th Thursday) and Hindu’s Thaipusam (January 27, Sunday that made the next day a Replacement Public Holiday).

Time stood still upon the sight of this charming beach. Pantai Cenang, Langkawi. So happy to be here!

HOW WE REACHED LANGKAWI

When Tina and I were planning to go to this island paradise back in late November last year, we already crossed out the possibility of bringing our feet to Langkawi via ferry ride from Penang (about 2-3 hours), or from Kuala Perlis or Kuala Kedah simply because my lovely wife has vertigo; she gets dizzy easily on long ferry rides; she’s not fond of airplane rides either. She rarely travel without her anti-motion sickness pills. I thought the plan would not push through until I collected little earnings from a sponsor by posting an an airline food review, we both agreed to go to Langkawi via Air Asia with their promo-seat-sale. And man, the flight took us by surprise! It was like we just went on board to watch the pre-flight safety demonstration by the crew, went up at 11,000 feet for few minutes and then the plane took its smooth touchdown at the Langkawi airport at 25-minutes flat.

Prior to that shortest flight ever, my family and I were admiring the newly refurbished Penang International Airport. Recalling how it looked like when we first saw it in 2010, there’s a tremendous improvement on this terminal as seen on its minimalist architecture, clean lines on its interiors and commendable provision of FREE internet lounge at the boarding area. We’re very impressed by the changes! Look at my family’s smiles while grabbing siopao bites prior to boarding, there’s no sign that we almost missed our flight that late afternoon! Teehee!

OUR AFFORDABLE AND BEAUTIFUL ACCOMODATION

From the list of hotels in Langkawi that Tina obtained online, I narrowed the choices for our accomodation prioritizing location, comfort and cost. It seemed like we hit the jackpot when there was a promo-rate offered for a Deluxe Room at the time of our online reservation. And we’re all content with the decision to purchase a 4D3N stay at White Lodge Chalet. It only took us 20 minute-taxi ride that cost 20 ringgit (US$ 6.4) from Langkawi Airport before we arrived at this relaxing island abode. The lush and gorgeous walkway to the reception area was enough to remind us of the importance of savoring a change of environment from time to time. Such an incredibly welcoming respite!

Admittedly, all staff of White Lodge Chalet particularly those assigned at the reception area were all warm and friendly. They readily answered all my queries about the Island and best, they volunteered to phone a taxi cab prior to our departure to the airport on our last day. We proved that their services were rendered fast and efficient as we requested their maintenance to check and repair a minor and brief electrical interruption in our room.

Location was perfect for us. It’s secluded from the busy main road of Cenang; about 5-to-10 minute walk from Pantai Cenang or Cenang (pronounced as chenang) Beach.

I already paid the room reservation via agoda.com a month before our holiday so checking in was a breeze; they didn’t even ask for a deposit on top of the paid voucher upon arrival. After we got the keys and wifi’s username and password, we headed to our designated room. It may not be a beachfront hotel, neither a five-star-accomodation, what mattered most was the fact that we really enjoyed our days at White Lodge Chalet! Tina professed her wish to go back to the same budget hotel if we get a chance to go back to Langkawi.

Here’s the garden-path to our Deluxe Room at White Lodge Chalet Langkawi…

The room was relatively new; not too spacious neither very small. Everything’s good except for few little things like there’s no phone in our room to call the reception, the wifi’s weak, the flat-screen-TV didn’t have cable channels and the tissue holder at the toilet was installed near the shower. But all in all, we managed to enjoy our time at White Lodge Chalet.

After checking in, we dropped our luggage and bags and off we trooped to the beach! But before anything else, must take photos!

A few minute walk will take you to the main road of Cenang…

…where restaurants, eateries and Duty-Free-Shops are located.

Have I told you that Langkawi seems like our very own Boracay in the Philippines but with plenty of Duty-Free? It’s an island paradise cum shopping haven! Tina bought few chocolates as they’re in volume and cheap in these shops.

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At the back of that famous tourist attraction, Underwater World Langkawi, lies the beach…

PANTAI CENANG (CENANG BEACH)

This was how we contained our happiness the first time we experienced Cenang Beach…

Then went wackier for the pic :

Felt the powdery white sand on our hands and hurriedly soaked our feet! Something we do not do on a daily basis!

It was almost 7PM and the sunset came as usual (in Malaysia) at around 7:30PM. It was time to leave the beach for dinner. Langkawi of course, boasts of freshest catch from the sea! We suddenly missed going to Dampa restaurants back home where you buy your ingredients from the market and ask restaurant people to cook your goods the way you want it -grilled, buttered, fried, in broth and whatnot! Hmmmmm!

There’s that airconditioned Cenang Mall and the main road itself offers a wide variety of choices of food places from hawkers and fastfood joints. We tried to sample local dishes but found nothing extraordinary compared to Penang; we ended up having dinner in this Tomato Nasi Kandar, a decent Indian eatery.

We had Chicken Satay in Peanut Sauce, Gabby’s favorite -Cheese Naan dipped in dahl, Buttered Chicken Masala and 3 orders of Roti Canai (which was so affordable at 80 cents | US $ 0.25 per plate!) and washed everything down with a can of Coke (sinful, I know!) and a gulp of fresh watermelon juice! Solb!

“The sun looks down on nothing half so good as a household laughing together over a meal.” #CSLewis

After filling our tummies and while waiting for the bill, Gabby and Tina made fun of themselves by playing one of Gabby’s antics. He calls this game, STARING CONTEST.

Without umbrellas, we were halted by a downpour and had to wait for half an hour under the shades of a sidestreet bazaar.

Thank God, it rained; it made me appreciate the wet colored tiles of the sidewalk. The patterns were amazing!

We continued strolling down the main road back to our room. Here’s a rundown of the interesting things we saw…

SECOND DAY AT THE BEACH

We thought of catching the sunrise by the beach but we’re too weak to resist the lure of curling under the sheets. We gave in to our desire to sleep longer; after all, that’s included in the philosophy of a break, isn’t it? Nothing’s more delicious than waking up without worries of battling with an alarm clock.

It was already high noon when we left our room. That red roof on the left side of the next photo below was our room for 4 days in Langkawi. And the structures on the right are called vacation homes by White Lodge Chalet. Spotted a Mini which is so common on the roads here.

Kodakan right in front of our room : Say ,cheese! :)

Inside a tiny wooden gazebo in the garden…

And at the walkway near the reception area…We loved this place!

Trying to avoid KFC as we commonly eat it almost twice a week when at work and in the absence of our favorite Filipino fastfood, Jollibee in this part of the globe, we opted for the next best thing on our list. ‘Love din namin ‘to!

Cravings : satisfied. Time to worship God and appreciate His beautiful creations by the beach!

We also like the fact that there are chalets and locally-themed accomodation at the beachfront but indubitably, the area can get crowded and noisy unlike if the hotel’s tucked somewhere near.

After Tina chose a spot to while away time, she spread our beach-friendly, sand-repellant Lagu blanket. Thanks, Lagu Singapore for this one; we welcome additional gifts in other vibrant colors #shamelessplugging!

Perhaps, one of the highlights of our family bonding on this Langkawi vacation was the moment Gabby and I flew this 5-ringgit kite that we brought all the way from Penang. We came prepared, you know!

The wind and sea breeze were perfectly blowing so flying this plastic birdie wasn’t an effort. It was whole lot of fun! I think I enjoyed it more than Gabby, lol. The only problem was, we all forgot to bring our sunnies and the scorching heat was unforgiving to the eyes! Nonetheless, it was surreal!

While Tina was having her ME-time at one shaded corner of the beach, it was a pleasure accompanying the little-big-boy in collecting seashells by the seashore. #soundsliketonguetwister.

We called it a day inside our room watching movies and munching junk foods.

THIRD DAY : BEST CHICKEN RICE AND PANTAI TENGAH (TENGAH BEACH)

As the plan to catch another sunrise by the beach was drowned again by long hours of sleep, we left our room at almost noon to take lunch. Tina’s craving for Chicken Rice was satisfied! We highly recommend Mr. Tan’s Famous Chicken Rice along the road in Cenang! Two thumbs up for this ultimately flavorful Chicken Rice served with soup!!! The wannabe-food-connoisseur in me told Tina that my palates sensed a-no-preservative dish in the plate and on the soup. Mr. Tan must not be fond of using chicken cubes but freshest ingredients only. Very nice indeed! So budget-friendly and cleanly served for only 5 ringgit (US$ 1.60) per plate! It goes without saying that I had two servings and unbelievably, it was the same case for Gabby! The chicken was not steamed but roasted to perfection! Dare I say it’s the best Chicken Rice we’ve tasted in Malaysia. Need I say more?

When in Langkawi, must eat here! Sarap! Sedap! Delicious!

Dining al fresco was never been better! Great tasting and cheap food enjoyed with family, provision of free table napkins (which is a rarity in Penang hawkers!) and a warm service from Mr. Tan! Everything’s awesome!

Too lazy to hit the beach at high noon, we decided to go back and cool down inside our room. We dozed off until late afternoon.

Just outside our room, Gabby dried his shells on those immaculate chairs that I wanted to bring home.

We woke up before 6PM and hit the roads again. The walk towards Tengah Beach from White Lodge Chalet took us around 20 minutes. Although Pantai Tengah runs continuously with the waters of Pantai Cenang with only a chunk of rocks and a slope of a hill dividing the beaches, one can easily know the difference between the two. If you’re into water sports like parasailing and jet skiing, Pantai Tengah is it! While if you’re like us who prefer finer and more powdery sand, go enjoy Cenang Beach!

Here are the scenes from Tengah Beach…

I love this monochrome portrait of Tina despite the blur. #lovely #happy #surreal

Also in Pantai Tengah, we spotted a Malaysian jelly fish ashore.

We failed more than once to catch the sunrise from Langkawi but we’re glad to appreciate the glorious sunset by Pantai Tengah.

Dinner time. Oh yeah, McDonald’s again.

Langkawi offers so many tourist adventures like the famous cable car that provides a panoramic view of the island with a Sky Bridge (some say you can even view the neighboring Thailand from there), a stroll inside Oriental Village filled with souvenir shops and other attractions, a trek to Seven Wells, a visit to the Eagle Square, gardens, museums and mosques, the Underwater World near Cenang Beach and of course, island hopping and eagle-spotting. We missed all those for some reasons (ask Gabby!) but nevertheless, they remain a notion for us to go back and revisit this wonderful island paradise in the near future. *crossed fingers and toes*

Honestly, we’re grateful and happy we did nothing but beach-bumming and eating in Langkawi. Even for a while, Tina and I were relieved from stress and worries about work (and perhaps, Gabby too with routine life in school). It may not be as interesting and fascinating as what the other tourists usually do iin this island but our simple break defined what we badly need. We created a no-game-plan-vacation and just allowed time to take its course. It was wonderful!

LAST DAY IN LANGKAWI

We checked out from White Lodge Chalet and left our luggage and bags at the reception area. We went back to the same Chicken Rice stall by the road and ordered the same thing for lunch. Gabby had two servings again! It’s that addicting, I kid you not.

After that quick lunch, we went back to the reception area and waited for few minutes for the taxi cab they phoned for us. We opted to kill time inside Langkawi Airport rather than rushing to catch the flight again. We arrived here around 2PM and waited for our flight 3 and a half hours after. We chilled in our favorite coffee shop with these yummies…

C’mmon, don’t count those calories! lol

As for me, I’m counting memories…

Bye-bye, Langkawi! Thank you very much for everything, we had so much fun! Till we meet again!

And just before the 25-minute-flight touchdown at Penang International Airport, I luckily got a good shot of Penang’s inviting coastline. Hello, Penang! We’re so back and recharged.

Until our next family bonding adventure!

*This is NOT a sponsored post.

>><<

Jan

OUR 9TH WEDDING ANNIVERSARY

By docgelo 28 Comments

Categories: EVENTS and FAMILY : LOVE KO 'TO
Tags: celebration, doc gelo, docgelo, expatriate, expats, family, family photos, filipinos in malaysia, love, love for family, malaysia, penang malaysia, photos, wedding anniversary

8th January 2013.

Tuesday.

Cristina and I are not celebrating our 9th Wedding Anniversary with wine and sweet words

but simply with Gabby and togetherness.

Happy 9th Anniversary, ’ney! I love you and Gabby!

Family_041

*All photos on this post were taken by ace Malaysian photographer, Sunny Tan at the Macalister Mansion, George Town, Penang, Malaysia last December 1st, 2012. Tina, Gabby and I commissioned the ever easy-to-work-with & friendly, Sunny to do our portraits and we’re so grateful for his expertise. Thank you very much, Sunny!

Visit Sunny Tan’s websites at www.sunnysan.com | Happy Family By Sunnysan | sunnysanphotography .

*Our wedding photos, love story, etcetera, etcetera, click HERE!

>><<

Jan

THE JW MARRIOTT-KUALA LUMPUR EXPERIENCE

By docgelo 15 Comments

Christmas 2012 Blog Series includes :

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24 December 2012. Monday. JW Marriott Hotel Kuala Lumpur. With reservation done directly via their website a couple of months back, we checked in around 2PM which was a little earlier than the regular check in time at 3PM with no extra charge; thank you! While our luggage and bags were being taken cared of one of the bellboys, the lady-concierge officer who attended to me was so pleasant, friendly and quick, I think they both deserve a salary raise for efficiency. Everything was absolutely hassle-free!

Perfectly located along Jalan Bukit Bintang, the major shopping road in Kuala Lumpur, JW Marriot Hotel is adjacent to Starhill Gallery, right across Pavilion Mall, few steps away from Lot 10 and Fareinheit Malls, Uniqlo, H&M, Zara flagship stores and a wide choices of food shops.

Other than location, security and cost, having wifi connection and its speed is also on top of my priorities. Despite fancy greetings upon plugged-in, READ this entire post to know the only thing WE DID NOT LIKE about JW Marriott Kuala Lumpur.

The family opted to stay here to celebrate Christmas Eve and Christmas Day itself with Shook! Masquerade Lunch! The experience was glorious (blog post HERE!)!

Tina and Gabby also agreed on the fact that the king size bed on this deluxe room was ultimately delicious.

One of our most restful sleeps ever.

Believe his smile, he liked the bed so much! We all did!

Boobtube had Gabby’s favorites.

Working station where I plugged my laptop and went online wasn’t bad too.

The view from our window was inviting but we didn’t take a dip.

Mini bar and coffee and tea making facility…

We liked the huge wardrobe fully equipped with those necessary things.

The toilet, tub and shower (not in photo). Spotless. They granted my request of extra towels, thank you!

Toiletries were from Crabtree and Evelyn.

Details of the little things…

Tina and Gabby tried this; I didn’t. They were happier after the soak. Must be soothing.

Slept and woke up with nothing to do but indulge in Shook! Breakfast Buffet included in the promo-package we availed.

We feasted like kings…

The spread wasn’t ordinary.

Coffee, tea, fruit juices were free-flowing…

Choosing what to sample became a happy-problem.

Local rice and bean cakes…

Malaysia’s staple food. Nasi Lemak (Nasi-rice; lemak-fat) composed of rice boiled in coconut milk, chicken in sambal spicy sauce garnished with boiled egg, anchovies, cucumber slices and roasted peanuts. They say Nasi Lemak is enough to empower you throughout the day.

Can you guess who had what?

Everything Halal. Beef bacon (still biased to my favorites- you know!), Chicken sausage, Chinese fried rice, hash browns, biscuits and crackers paired with feta, cheddar and cream cheese, mushroom and onions and a dimsum.

Round 2 : Tina had croissant, smoked salmon and everything else you see on the photo…

While I was a happy diner with Malaysian favorites – roti canai dipped in dahl.

Essential fibers. Papaya slices, pineapples and yellow watermelon.

Those smiles are my early morning sunshine!

Everything’s beautiful and satisfying with JW Marriott and would consider to go back but the WIFI WASN’T FREE! We didn’t avail as we want it to be provided at no extra cost. I only got to go online with their Ethernet-plug-into-your-laptop-kind-of-thing. What if I didn’t bring my own computer? We failed to connect online using our mobiles and Tina’s ipod. There was wifi at the hotel lobby but it certainly spells convenience if the rooms were provided with FREE WIFI service too. On this day and age, free wifi is no longer a luxury but a necessity.

>><<

JW Marriott Kuala Lumpur | 183 Jalan Bukit Bintang, Kuala Lumpur 55100 Malaysia | www.marriott.com

*This is NOT a sponsored post.

Jan

HOLIDAY FEASTS

By docgelo 13 Comments

Christmas 2012 Blog Series includes :

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Celebrated Noche Buena or Christmas Eve dinner inside our room in JW Marriott Kuala Lumpur (and before eyebrows reach the penthouse and rooftops, we got the promo-rate for this deluxe room with free buffet breakfast months prior the Yuletide season).

Tina phoned the concierge and asked for goblets, cake cutter, some saucers and forks. Luck was indeed with us because everything was provided free of charge.

From Mercato grocery at the basement of Pavilion Mall, we bought an affordable chilled white wine from Australia and a chocolate-flavored milk for Gabby and one of the most decadent chocolate cakes we had was purchased from a bakeshop called, Lavander. Et voila! Our family’s Noche Buena!

Back in our current home in Butterworth, Penang, Media Noche or New Year’s Eve dinner was simply savored. Although without conscious efforts, it was apparent that we did not deviate from the usual Filipino tradition to prepare round and circle things on the dining table to symbolize good fortune, joy and prosperity in welcoming the New Year. We trooped to the grocery on the late morning of December 31st and joined the shopping rush. We had some fruits (although it’s customary, we didn’t have the complete 13 round fruits to represent 12 prosperous months and an extra), and on the last minute, Tina decided to prepare sushi all from scratch.

A few round fresh fruits, the classic fruit salad, some round cheese pita and some round and homecooked sushi sans the use of a sushi mat (we didn’t find any in the grocery!) all washed down by Orange drink and our New Year’s Eve dinner was done. Odd combination, I know but it worked for the three of us!

Believe it or not, we already spent a Holiday feast for only fifty pesos back in 2009 (blog post HERE!).

Fastforward to 2013 again, we welcomed the New Year with high hopes and spirits at the comfort of our 11th floor apartment in Penang. Although we spent a little more than 50 pesos this time, what matters most isn’t the cost of anything but the happiness of being together as a family. Moments were priceless!

From our tiny porch, we enjoyed few minutes of fireworks from George Town across the bay and the highway right in front of our apartment.

We’re grateful to the Lord for all the blessings- big & small that He has been showering us! We don’t have everything but there are a ton of reasons to be thankful for! We remain appreciative of the fact that Tina, Gabby and I are together in our work place here in Penang and we know it’s already a huge blessing that not all Overseas Filipino Worker could enjoy.

Happy New Year, everyone!

>><<

Jan

‘TWAS THE DAY BEFORE CHRISTMAS 2012

By docgelo 19 Comments

Categories: FAMILY : LOVE KO 'TO, FOOD & MORE FOOD!, ILOVEPHOTOS, MALAYSIA and TRAVEL
Tags: 2012, bukit bintang kuala lumpur, bukit nanas, catholic church in kuala lumpur, catholic church in malaysia, christmas, christmas 2012, christmas decors, christmas lantern, christmas tree, cocktails, doc gelo, docgelo, expat, expatriate in malaysia, family and living, family blog, family geteaway, feast village, feast village in starhill gallery, food blog, food blogger, foodie, holiday, indian food, jw mariott hotel kuala lumpur, kuala lumpur malaysia, lifestyle, lifestyle blog, malaysia, malls in kuala lumpur, malls in malaysia, mojito, must see places in malaysia, must visit in kuala lumpur, ocw, ocw in malaysia, ofw, ofw in malaysia, parol, pavilion mall, pucca, sangeetha, st john cathedral kuala lumpur, starhill gallery, tourism malaysia, travel blog, travel blog malaysia, travel blogger, village bar, yuletide

Christmas 2012 Blog Series includes :

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Happy 2013! I hope everyone had a blast in your holiday celebrations as much as we did. I just came home last December 30th from my very first (hopefully not the last as per permission from Tina) solo backpacking trip in Chiang Mai and enjoyed 4D3N of awesome Thai-adventure! But prior to that, my family and I left our work and current home base in Penang and went to Kuala Lumpur from December 22nd-25th, last year (still feel quite weird saying that “last year” phrase!).

24 December 2012. Leboh Ampang, Kuala Lumpur. Immediately after we checked out from our budget hotel accomodation in Hotel 1915 and left our luggage and bags in its concierge, we strolled our way to a nearby Gereja Katolik (Bahasa Malaysia for Catholic Church) called St. John Cathedral located approximately 5 minute-walk from Leboh Ampang or the so-called, Little India in KL and around 10-15 minute-walk from Masjid Jamek LRT station. I learned about St. John Cathedral via what else but googling and thankfully, it’s located so close to where we stayed for our first 2 nights.

Despite there was no scheduled Holy Mass that high noon, we entered the church, said our prayers and words of gratitude. There was an atmosphere of Christmas-in-the-Philippines somehow in this part of Malaysia with the sight of parol at the facade (Christmas lantern that symbolizes the star in Bethlehem that guided the wise men and shepherds to the Infant Jesus) and a belen or a Nativity scene beside the main altar.

St John Cathedral | No. 5 Jalan Bukit Nanas 50250 Kuala Lumpur | www.stjohnkl.net

Then we headed back to Leboh Ampang for that necessary lunch. We were thinking of getting our bags first from Hotel 1915 and tranfer to JW Mariott where we decided to spend our Christmas eve but we opted to fill in our almost empty tummies before anything else. Glad it was on the top of our priorities; Abraham Maslow would agree!

Another happy problem rose and that was where to eat? The area boasts of common fastfood joints -from McDonald’s, Burger King and Chatime and some local restaurants and hawker food stalls. It wasn’t difficult for Tina and I to convince Gabby for us to have an Indian-Malaysian lunch because our wonder boy himself loves to put his hand on some Cheese Naan and dips it to dahl or some spicy sauce before savoring it in his discriminating mouth. Soon enough, we found ourselves seated inside the airconditioned Indian Restaurant in Leboh Ampang called Sangeetha.

Lunch @ Sangeetha, an Indian Vegetarian Restaurant

Seriously checking the menu…

Tina and Gabby had baskets filled with Cheese and Garlic Naan with cheesy dip for their light lunch. It’s a family favorite!

While the big-eater-in-me sampled one of the restaurant’s most frequently ordered items from their menu. It’s called Sangeetha Special Thali and this is how lovely it looks like :

Sangeetha Restaurant is a vegetarian restaurant so it offers less guilt on the diet (for those diet-consicous).

Sangeetha Special Thali was served beautifully first with vegetarian-orange-colored soup that’s thick and hot and flavorful! Then it came with a visually stunning set of cup of rice, a piece of chapathi, papadom and dried salty chili. Those carbo-rich items placed at the center of the entire set were complemented by Indian saucy dishes- kootu, potato masala, rassam, veggies that reminded me of lumpia, dahl, yoghurt and sweet and yellow dessert. A scoop of berry-flavored ice cream was also served as part of that Sangeetha Special Thali set. And did I tell you already that those dishes and even the rice were refillable? I didn’t challenge my appetite to ask for another serving. Everything was satisfyingly good and I highly recommend it when you find yourself in this part of KL but my palates are still biased with Restoran Kapitan in the heart of Lebuh Chulia in Pulau Pinang.

Detail shot of that impressive Sangeetha Special Thali…

Then we became busier of course! Nom nom nom…

Smiling while something is in your mouth wasn’t easy, lol

Done with lunch!

We collected our luggage and bags from Hotel 1915, hailed a cab (we could’ve taken the LRT as we used to when we were there if not for our heavy loads) and trooped to Bukit Bintang.

Checking in at JW Mariott was a breeze. Detailed review of our stay deserves a separate blog post.

After quick freshening up, I was excited to bring my family to Feast Village at the basement of Starhill Gallery which is located exactly adjacent to JW Mariott -we didn’t even have to go out of the building of the hotel (everything mentioned is owned by YTL).

When I was invited to an exclusive food-tasting-tour last November, Feast Village at Starhill Gallery generously gave me a 100-ringgit-voucher to be spent either at Fisherman’s Cove or Village Bar.

Look at how Gabby’s amazed with the live lobsters and fish-ready-to-be-cooked-upon-order at Firsherman’s Cove.

Tina and I must bring this kid to a bigger aquarium when we get a chance. He’s so fascinated with Science as he gets a load of info not only from his school but from watching NatGeo Wild on TV.

A decision was made by the two. We sampled Village Bar for free and passed up Fisherman’s Cove.

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Once again, I was in awe with this ultimately quaint bar located at the basement of Starhill Gallery. I’m glad my family loved it too! We all admire those vibrantly colored and fascinating lamps; Tina and I wished that we would have a lanai one day with all of them dropping from our very own ceiling. Lovely, isn’t it?

With a 100-ringgit-free-voucher at hand, we ordered Mojito, Cosmopolitan and Vanilla Madagascar from a Filipino bar tender in Village Bar. I had the Mojito, Cosmopolitan for Tina and of course, Vanilla Madagascar which is non-alcoholic for our kiddo. A serving of assorted nuts was offered free.

I like these next shots. Look how Gabby enjoyed his drink from Village Bar…

Blurry, I know but I love this photo taken at the mall in Starhill Gallery. It certainly spells the holiday we savored!

After those drinks at Village Bar in Feast Village, we went to Pavilion Mall which is located just across Starhill Gallery and Mariott. It was a fine afternoon filled with Christmas spirit and a very blissful atmosphere amidst the holiday rush.

Festive mood in front of Starhill Gallery and JW Mariott Hotel…

Crossed the street to Pavilion Mall and we’re greeted with more gold, green and red colors of the season…

In my opinion, Pavilion’s holiday decors and ornaments topped that of Suria-KLCC-Shopping Complex’s this year. Pavilion’s nothing but magnificent! One Christmas tree was absolutely not enough! lol

We had no game plan in mind but to buy something for our Noche Buena that we planned to celebrate inside our room and for Gabby to buy a Lego toy. Inside Parkson’s Department Store, Tina’s excitement was so apparent after seeing Pucca dolls. I was somewhat left out because I don’t know anything about Pucca! I did nothing but to capture the moment! …Picture!

We grabbed what we wanted for our Christmas Eve dinner from Mercato grocery and Lavander Bake Shop inside Pavilion and went out of the said mall. It was already dusk and Jalan Bukit Bintang was indeed living up to its name (Bukit Bintang means star hill); everything was lit up! Bikit Bintang was screaming Christmas!!!

It was a lovely night for my family. Will definitely share what we think of JW Mariott, what it needs to improve and provide to clients, our Noche Buena and Media Noche soon on the concluding post of this Christmas 2012 Blog Series.

From my family to yours, Happy 2013, everyone and may we all have a healthier, happier new year!

Cheers to more family bonding, food and fun adventures!

>><<

Dec

OUR CHRISTMAS MASQUERADE LUNCH BUFFET AT SHOOK!

By docgelo 20 Comments

Christmas 2012 Blog Series includes :

*Warning : This is another visual overload. You know the drill before you drool. I suggest you get yourself a tall glass of iced water prior reading this post and salivate involuntarily. lol

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25 December 2012. Christmas Day. Feast Village, Starhill Gallery, Bukit Bintang, Kuala Lumpur.

Tina, Gabby and I had the grandest Christmas Day celebration in Kuala Lumpur and we hope you enjoyed yours too! We spent Christmas eve in a deluxe room in JW Mariott Hotel and savored our simple Noche Buena feast and a satisfying breakfast buffet meal at Shook! (both deserve a seperate blog posts). We were given the privilege of late check out at 2PM but we managed to settle everything at 12noon and went back to Shook! to grace their Masquerade Christmas Day Lunch Buffet!

This gastronomic experience is nothing short of spectacular! Of all the eat-all-you-want feasts we enjoyed from the Philippines to Malaysia, Shook! Christmas Masquerade Buffet Lunch at Starhill Gallery in Bukit Bintang (which literally means, ‘star hill’) is the most fantastic, stellar and stunning, certainly entertaining, lavishly fascinating gastronomic experience to date with all those scrumptious spread of Chinese, Japanese, Malay, Italian, Continental cuisines perfectly paired with free-flowing champagne (we passed up the bottomless champagne and opted to wash everything down with Evian water)! Shook! offers this splendid theatrical buffet every Sunday but for us who currently live more than 300km from Kuala Lumpur, we’re thankful for the chance that we had it on the most wonderful time of the year, Christmas! What a great time and reason for such indulgence!

I spoke to Mr. Raj, one of the main men behind Shook! in Feast Village and he proudly told me all those holiday decors and pretty ornaments were prepared by the staff themselves. Bravo for such efforts! They creatively set the ambiance and the mood for everyone’s enjoyment. Even the tiniest details on the tables were not overlooked. What a visual and digestive feast it was!

“The sun looks down on nothing half so good as a household laughing together over a meal.“

~CS Lewis

Apart from the buffet spread, diners had the opportunity of choosing entrees on the menu; we selected one for each of us. Clockwise from top photo : Tina opted to try a beef dish that was pleasantly plated while I didn’t miss the chance of having seafoods and that Shook’s award winning dish that I sampled last November when they generously invited me for a tasting tour at selected restaurants in Feast Village, the Dancing Prawn. Gabby’s choice was predictable and classic; he had his favorite, Ebi Tempura that seemed like all coated with batter but were all nibbled by Gabby so I guess it successfully passed his young discriminating taste.

There were Mongolian BBQ, Roast Turkey and Beef Ribs (which I also sampled, delicious, tender & flavorful!), Western Style Salad Bar, Selection of Fresh Seafood and Oyster Bar, Chinese, Malay, Indian and Thai Food Counters, Cheese Buffet, Antipasti and more but my palates were so biased to what I don’t usually eat on a daily basis. After all, it’s Christmas, must eat your favorites. And for me, it’s seafood dishes and Japanese!

While Gabby loves Ebi Tempura, I also share the love for such dishes with Tina. Look at my lovely wife’s plates…

This is the only eat-all-you-want that we experienced amazing entertainment. There were clown-balloon maker, magician, juggler, all staff dressed in Medieval splendor, there’s Santa Clause who went table to table giving candies to the old and the young as if the dessert spread wasn’t enough, and yes, there was live band and choir singing what else but lovely Christmas carols! Everything’s magical! Surreal!

The service of all staff of Shook! at Feast Village was quick, warm and friendly! Everyone deserves a salary raise if you ask me! They surely complemented everything on this fabulous feast!

Food. More glorious food!

Desserts were absolutely divine.

Lively and lovely atmosphere…
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Cups of cappuccino to end a beautiful meal.

The buffet started 12PM and lasted until 3:30PM; too many food, so little time and stomach! lol. As we bid goodbye to the best buffet experience we had for 2012, we were gifted with freebies of heavenly chocolate cupcakes topped with moist and decadent chocolate icing and Christmas ornaments. What a great takeaway!

Apparently, one can never measure happiness with anything money could buy. It’s not on the food we eat, the gifts we receive, the cars you drive, the things you shop but it eternally springs on those precious moments we spend with people who love and treasure us. My biggest joy for Christmas 2012 was celebrating its meaning with my family and seeing ear-to-ear-smiles on their faces. Priceless definitely!

May the good Lord continuously shower all of us with more of His bountiful blessings this 2013 and beyond.

Have a Prosperous, Healthier & Happier New Year, everyone!

*This is NOT a sponsored post but special thanks goes out to Shook! and Starhill Gallery people, Yati, Raj and Rachel Yong! Warm regards to all the staff particularly to the Filipino crew at Shook!

Feast Village, Starhill Gallery | 181 Jalan Bukit Bintang, 55100 Kuala Lumpur | www.feastvillage.com

>><<

Dec

PETROSAINS

By docgelo 15 Comments

Christmas 2012 Blog Series includes :

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They called this Personnel Basket Transfer, used to transfer a worker to and from a crew boat or supply boat to a jackup rig, offshore platform, semi-submersible or other structures. When I saw this, I remember one of Gabby’s godparents’ photo (Rob’s) shot when he was swinging with similar structure while at work on a rig in Middle East. This and a lot more are showcased in Petrosains in KLCC-Suria Shopping Complex.

23 December 2012. Sunday. Petrosains, 4th level KLCC-Suria Shopping Complex. Two days before Christmas, Tina and I brought Gabby to this Science museum in Kuala Lumpur. It felt like we went to an educational field trip again! While Gabby tried to enjoy and interact with every display and features, Tina and I honestly felt Petrosains is “too-kiddie” but of course, nothing’s wrong with that. In fact it simplified Science and some concepts of Oil mining for children to appreciate and absorb quite easily however, we felt something lacking. It’s either we expected too much or we’ve seen a lot better Science museums back home. Perhaps both. Or probably, it’s just us. To each his own of course.

KLCC-Suria Shopping Complex this festive holiday season has simple Christmas decors. Compared to other malls in Kuala Lumpur, they opted to keep it low.

At its 4th level is Petrosains. Long queue when we arrived at around few minutes before 12noon. Thankfully, I didn’t need to wait and stand on the line to purchase our tickets because I was ushered promptly upon asking to the lane for those who have reservations online or via phone. I did ours through phone call. I paid RM50 (PhP 700) for a family package that included tickets for the 3 of us. Not bad compared to tickets to Science museums in Manila (but I know, you get what you paid for, right?). Despite its affordability, the cost (of almost all entrance rates to anything in Malaysia) for non-Malaysians/tourists is always more expensive than locals. In my honest opinion, this draws tourism farther rather than being attractive. Again, this is only my two-cents-worth.

It was high noon, must have lunch. Gabby spotted his favorite amongst the kiosks in food gallery at the same level of the mall, hence we gave in. Pepper Lunch is a family’s favorite! We always crave for this DIY-affordable steak-rice meals for we don’t have it in our current home base in Penang. Hmmmm. Yummy!

Oops, but the Malaysian food crew who prepared it must have enjoyed seasoning it with LOTSA PEPPER! Just because it’s Pepper Lunch doesn’t mean it’ll be pepper all over. Believe me, we’ve tasted its versions in Manila, Makati, Hong Kong, Singapore and even in the other branch in Kuala Lumpur which is in Pavilion Mall -it’s not supposed to be that hot! I should’ve instructed him to prepare our hot plates NOT TOO SPICY. Result : Gabby didn’t finish his Pepper Lunch Beef Pepper Rice plate for the first time. Oh well.

After lunch, back to Petrosains. There are free lockers at the entrance to store backpacks, shopping bags, food and drinks that are not allowed inside. Cameras are OK to bring. Excitement to experience this Science Museum diminished when we needed to wait for more than 30 minutes to go in. C’mmon, I didn’t go on queue because I had reservations online but still… Fine. We’re left no option but to wait for our turn, smile while killing time.

It took us almost forever to take the Dark Ride. Relax, relax lang! *sigh*

Then when we hopped on this wheeled semi-spherical black thingie that rolls passengers up and back and down and up while holograms and film projections about environment and oil and Malaysian people are shown, it took another 15 minutes for it to shuttle us to the main Petrosains Exhibit halls. OK. At this early, Tina and I therefore conclude, Petrosains is good just for once. There you go!

Finally, the exhibit proper! First off, Gabby tried the Plasma Tube where a friendly staff explained to him how it works.

As I understood it (I tried while capturing photos!), Gabby was asked to feel the tranfer of energy from the source to something that he was instructed to hold. End of story. Next : the making of a tornado. It looks more fun!

Something like mechanism of a clock…

My family and I love Malaysia’s very own, Wayang Kulit or shadow puppet! We even bought a Rama and Sita wayang from Kota Bharu in Kelantan a year ago. Glad we saw some on display in Petrosains.

More modern shadow play…

Moving on…”Selamat Datang” means Welcome!

Waiting for teksi…

Colorful backdrop…

My photos are raw and I know nothing of photoshop. My captures are imperfect but I love this mirror-illusion image I took with my family. I think it’s amazing!

Then the area became more interesting. Thank goodness!

Funny that Dino rapped (not sang) a lyrics in Bahasa Melayu. Fantastic!

Some things about the Earth – mountains, soil, mining and oil…

I also liked this humongous magnifying lens where the fangs of a model-tiger project.

Lava lava love!

The Sparkz area incorporates interactive Science and playtime!

Cute play place. Cuter kids..

The (helicopter) simulator that we didn’t try for a minimal fee of 3 ringgit each pax…

Oil mining-thingies…

Then Gabby dared to hold a fireball over a demonstration. His eyes said he was excited but his hands showed fear. Ok lang iyan, anak! It doesn’t make you less! Truth is, your curiosity rocks! *Don’t try this at home, kids!*

Another eye-catching display inside Petrosains…broom broom!!!

Molecular churva -according to Tina…

Was this 3D or 4D -15-minute-movie? I forgot, I’m sorry. What I remembered clearly was the fact that I felt asleep. Sorry, I came from a long journey. *pun intended* Dare I say, Petrosains should enhanced this little theater! This what happens when your patrons already experienced the ones in Disneyland and Universal Studios. Comparison kills! Truth is, mediocrity isn’t the way to attract customers! Must improved!

Although the purpose of bringing Science and the oil industry to the young ones is apparent, people behind Petrosains must be reminded that Science is continuously evolving and so it follows that they should upgrade their displays with the times. It’s already the age of everything in command with a flick of a finger pad, isn’t it? And please, do something with the speed of flow of exit; even people who are not claustrophobic experienced the anxiety of being one. Thank you!

_____________

Dec

PUTRAJAYA

By docgelo 19 Comments

Christmas 2012 Blog Series includes :

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22 December 2012. Saturday. Masjid Putra or Putrajaya Mosque, Putrajaya, Kuala Lumpur. After checking in at Hotel 1915 Kuala Lumpur, we simply dropped our bags and luggage, hit the shower and off we went to Masjid Jamek LRT station which is located a few steps from our budget-boutique hotel. We didn’t have a game plan but to do tourist-things in Putrajaya, Malaysia’s federal administrative center.

Like the LRT & MRT in Manila, Yamanote Line in Tokyo, MTR in Hong Kong, BTS in Bangkok and MRT in Singapore, Kuala Lumpur’s LRT lines spell efficiency and commuter-friendliness. A city is always easy to explore when there’s dependable transport system. And for this year’s Christmas holiday of my family in Malaysia’s capital, we chose to use more of the trains and less of taxi cabs not only to save on the pocket but for speed, comfort and convenience.

Upon reaching the Masjid Jamek LRT station on foot, we asked the counter to break our bills into smaller notes and coins, then purchased tokens from touch-screen dispensing machines. Adventure begins here!

From Masjid Jamek, we arrived in KL Sentral terminal at around 5PM. Despite we’ve been to KL Sentral quite a number of times already, we still needed to ask for directions. We transferred train line to KLIA Transit to get our feet to Putrajaya Sentral. It’s our first time to ride KLIA Transit and the experience was amazing! Better than riding a bus, or the old KTM train in KL and yes, better than driving your own car on those traffic jammed highways! The trip from KL Sentral to Putrajaya Sentral via KLIA Transit train only took around 25 minutes.

We hopped off the KLIA Transit train (that takes its passengers to Kuala Lumpur International Airport, the other terminal besides Low Cost Carrier Terminal), stepped out to Putrajaya Sentral station and inquired again. While my family sat on one of the benches, I asked the counter what bus number should we take to get us to the Putrajaya Mosque, or more famously known as the Pink mosque. The friendly staff instantly wrote down the bus numbers on a small piece of paper but we decided to take the cab instead for the reason we wanted to be there quickly.

Because it’s almost evening (or it was already evening as “evening” for Malaysians begins after 2PM!), I got nothing in mind but to take my family to Putrajaya and experience another piece of must-visit-places in Malaysia. After all, our stay in this part of Asia is only until God-know-when! We never wasted time and took photos near the magnificently built, Pink Mosque.

“The Putra Mosque, or Masjid Putra in Malay language, is the principal mosque of Putrajaya, Malaysia. Construction of the mosque began in 1997 and was completed two years later. It is located next to Perdana Putra which houses the Malaysian Prime Minister’s office and man-made Putrajaya Lake. In front of the mosque is a large square with flagpoles flying Malaysian states’ flags.” (via Wiki)

putrajaya 12/22/12

I’ve seen the Pink Mosque during our few trips to Immigration office in Putrajaya back in 2010 but we were shuttled by our company’s bus then. I was too lazy to google how to commute going here but luckily and thankfully, we never got lost and found our way easily. We thought of going inside the mosque to appreciate it more however, we were told at the Informasi that non-Malaysian (non-Muslim) visitors are only allowed within the Mosque until 6PM so we simply roamed around and killed the time.

It was comforting and was so pleasant to see restaurants such as Nando’s and Secret Recipe along side with other local food kiosks inside an airconditioned food place within the vicinity of the mosque; plus even more surprising is a sight of a kiddie-play place!

Kodakan begins with a little bit of yamutan and more of kulitan…

Flying or diving? This photo is one of my favorites! Ang kulit!

A stone’s throw away from the Putrajaya Mosque is that emerald green domed, Prime Minister’s Office.

Picture!

Love and kulitan in Putrajaya…

Gabby voluntarily played as the Thinker…

and spontaneously jumped on high air…

He also tried to play as giant…

Tina took this photo and commented to me, “your teeth look like dentures!” lol

More kulitan moments…
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Nakakapagod! (Tiring!) But fun! We walked our way approximately 100-meters from the Prime Minister’s Office to the bus stop. En route, picture-taking again!

After 10 minutes, the bus arrived. With only 50 cents (PhP 7 or USD 0.16) per passenger and Gabby’s free, we took the Nadi Putra Bus on our way back to Putrajaya Sentral bus station; the ride took around 10-15 minutes. Of course, picture! This family’s happiness involves photos and more photos!

Back in the KLIA Transit train on way to KL Sentral…

Alighting from KLIA Transit train at around 8:45PM in KL Sentral, we transferred to LRT train to go back to Leboh Ampang. As we walked our way to the platform, we saw kiddie murals which we probably overlooked earlier because we’re on a rush. The Samsung-sponsored cartoonish paintings on the walls and stairs have environment-awareness theme, just wonderful. So, another photo-op was done. Picture!

It’s almost 9PM, must have dinner! At a local coffee shop near our hotel, we chowed down “lightly”.

Best meals and moments are yet to come as Yuletide 2012 in KL continues!

Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year, everyone!

____

Dec

THE 2012 OF BEYOND TOXICITY @ DOCGELO.COM

By docgelo 27 Comments

Categories: EVENTS, FAMILY : LOVE KO 'TO, FOOD & MORE FOOD!, HEADLINES, HONG KONG, ILOVEPHOTOS, MALAYSIA, SINGAPORE, THAILAND and TRAVEL
Tags: 2012, amari watergate hotel bangkok, asian food, bangkok, best bars in kuala lumpur, best bars in malaysia, blessings, blog review, blogger, blogging, challenges, chatuchak bangkok, chatuchak market bangkok, christmas, counting blessings, disneyland, doc gelo, docgelo, expat blog, expat life, expatriate in malaysia, expatriate in penang, feast village, festivities, filipino abroad, food, food blog, food blogger, foodie, grand palace bangkok, hilton hotel, hilton hotel kuala lumpur, holidays, Hong Kong Disneyland, hongkong disneyland, hotels in bangkok, hotels in malaysia, hotels in penang, japanese, Japanese food, johor bahru, Legoland, Legoland Malaysia, Life, life abroad, lifestyle blog, malaysia, marina bay sands singapore, my 2012 in pictures, mystic place bangkok, mystic place rooms in bangkok, new year, overseas blogger, penang malaysia, postaday, reclining buddha in bangkok, sakae sushi, sentosa singapore, singapore, singapore travel blog, skybar, starhill gallery, starhill gallery kuala lumpur, starhill tea salon, sushi, thailand, traders hotel, traders hotel kuala lumpur, travel blog asia, travel blog bangkok, travel blog in asia, travel blog in southeast asia, travel blog malaysia, travel blog penang, travel blog singapore, traveling, travelling, tuk tuk, vacation, village bar, wat pho, weekly photo challenge, what to see in bangkok thailand, year ender, year ender review

THANK YOU, 2012!

It’s only mid-December and the BEST SEASON, the BEST CELEBRATIONS are yet to come.

Despite all problems, challenges and daily hassles, counting blessings makes life more meaningful.

Words are not enough to express my gratitude for everything that happened to this personal passion called blogging.

Allow me to press the replay button, and sentimentally share with you once more

the vibrant and happy colors that made our family’s 2012 a kaleidoscope!

>>><<<

May 2012 : BEST EXPAT BLOG AWARDS from MINISTRY OF TOURISM MALAYSIA

blog post : http://docgelo.com/2012/05/09/2012-ministry-of-tourism-malaysia-best-expat-blog/

January 2012 : BATU CAVES, KUALA LUMPUR, MALAYSIA

blog post : http://docgelo.com/2012/01/27/caves-and-bears/

January 2012 : PETRONAS TWIN TOWERS SKYBRIDGE VISIT

blog post : http://docgelo.com/2012/01/21/our-fun-homage-to-malaysias-magnificence/

February 2012 : HONG KONG DISNEYLAND THEME PARK & HOTEL SPONSORED TRIP

blog posts :

http://docgelo.com/2012/02/23/our-hong-kong-disneyland-trip-2012-arrival-lunch/

http://docgelo.com/2012/02/27/our-hong-kong-disnyeland-trip-2012-spectacular-burst-of-colors/

http://docgelo.com/2012/03/01/our-hong-kong-disneyland-trip-2012-timeless-magic/

May 2012 : HAVING MY OWN DOMAIN + BLOG HEADER

blog post : http://docgelo.com/2012/05/25/happy-blogging/

May 2012 : AN INVITATION from @ SAKAE SUSHI, GEORGE TOWN, PENANG

blog post : http://docgelo.com/2012/05/28/love-affair-with-japanese-food-continues/

May 2012 : INVITATION to PENANG SPICE TRAIL from MINISTRY OF TOURISM MALAYSIA PENANG BRANCH

blog post : http://docgelo.com/2012/05/22/penang-spice-trail-enticing-sensory-experience/

June 2012 : SHOWCASING GEORGE TOWN, PENANG

June 2012 GT Penang

blog post : http://docgelo.com/2012/06/24/how-i-introduced-george-town-penang/

July 2012 : PHOTO PUBLISHED ON LONELY PLANET ASIA MAGAZINE

blog post : http://docgelo.com/2012/07/17/surreal/

July 2012 : INVITATION from SINGAPORE BLOG AWARDS | FAR EAST HOSPITALITY HOTELS -

OASIA HOTEL SPONSORED 3D2N ACCOMODATION

INVITATION from MARINA BAY SANDS SKYPARK | HARRY POTTER EXHIBITION -

ANDY WARHOL EXHIBITION

blog posts :

http://docgelo.com/2012/07/25/oasia-my-oasis-in-singapore-2012/

http://docgelo.com/2012/07/28/marina-bay-sands-my-awesome-experience/

http://docgelo.com/2012/08/08/infinite-dose-of-spring-gardens-by-the-bay/

http://docgelo.com/2012/08/05/singapore-on-greater-heights/

http://docgelo.com/2012/07/27/a-bloggers-weekend-in-singapore-lah/

July 2012 : HARD ROCK HOTEL PENANG SPONSORED 3D2N ACCOMODATION

blog posts :

http://docgelo.com/2012/08/01/glorious-food-porn-hard-rock-hotel-penang/

http://docgelo.com/2012/07/31/our-rock-roll-family-weekend-hard-rock-hotel-penang/

August 2012 : BANGKOK, THAILAND

blog posts :

http://docgelo.com/2012/08/20/bangkok-series-2012-grand-palace/

http://docgelo.com/2012/09/01/bangkok-2012-series-golden-reclining-buddha/

http://docgelo.com/2012/08/23/bangkok-2012-series-we-highly-recommend-mystic-place/

http://docgelo.com/2012/08/25/bangkok-2012-series-chatuchak-weekend-market/

http://docgelo.com/2012/09/04/bangkok-2012-series-heichinrou/

http://docgelo.com/2012/08/28/bangkok-2012-series-penang-bangkok-penang-via-bus/

September 2012 : INVITATION from LEGOLAND MALAYSIA

blog post : http://docgelo.com/2012/09/22/our-legoland-malaysia-experience-2012/

September 2012 : SINGAPORE ONCE MORE WITH TINA & GABBY

blog post : http://docgelo.com/2012/09/29/a-saturday-in-singapore/

October 2012 : FINALIST in PHOTO CONTEST @ CHINAHOUSE,

GEORGE TOWN, PENANG, MALAYSIA

blog post : http://docgelo.com/2012/11/11/we-got-free-brunch-chinahouse/

November 2012 : EXCLUSIVE INVITATION to FOOD TASTING @ FEAST VILLAGE,

STARHILL GALLERY.

SKYBAR @ TRADERS HOTEL | CHYNNA @ HILTON HOTEL | 7ATENINE @ ASCOTT

KUALA LUMPUR, MALAYSIA

petronas twin towers ANS_1392

blog posts :

http://docgelo.com/2012/11/17/village-bar-an-underground-fantasy/

http://docgelo.com/2012/11/20/my-delicious-afternoon-at-feast-village-starhill-gallery/

http://docgelo.com/2012/11/14/intoxicating-views/

http://docgelo.com/2012/11/24/7atenine/

http://docgelo.com/2012/11/23/dining-chinese/

November 2012 : SPONSORED AIRLINE FOOD REVIEW

blog post : http://docgelo.com/2012/11/26/malaysian-dishes-on-air-an-airline-food-review/

December 2012 : PHOTOSHOOT for FAMILY PORTRAIT @ MACALISTER MANSION, PENANG

blog post : http://docgelo.com/2012/12/02/weekend-at-macalister-mansion/

We commissioned one of the brilliant Malaysian photographers from Penang to do our family photos on the first day of December for an hour of unlimited shots at a very reasonable cost and a week after, he posted these two teaser-proofs on his facebook account. The rest of the photos will be delivered in weeks time.

As of this blogging, I’m also waiting for the result of ExpatBlogs.Com Best Expat Blog Awards

of which my site is nominated and currently 3rd among 13 expat blogs in Malaysia

(blog post : http://docgelo.com/support-docgelo/).

I’m also excited to share my interview and blog feature on InterNations.Org based in Germany soon!

On a more serious note,

Thank you to those people who lifted our spirits during our lowest moments this year.

Thank you to those generous souls who helped us in so many ways during those trying times.

Thank you to my blog readers, followers and fellow bloggers who have been a constant inspiration.

Advance Happy Holidays! A Blessed Christmas And A More Prosperous New Year to all of us!

THANK YOU SO MUCH, LORD ALMIGHTY!

All Glory and Honor is Yours, Now and Forever!

>>><<<

This is also my entry to Weekly Photo Challenge : My 2012 In Pictures

Dec

WEEKEND AT MACALISTER MANSION

By docgelo 11 Comments

My family and I welcomed the first day of the last month of the year with smiles from ear to ear as we spent a lovely weekend afternoon in one of the most charming boutique hotels in George Town, Penang, the Macalister Mansion.

It was Tina who initially thought of having a family portrait this year as our last was taken more than couple of years ago in a small commercial photo studio back home. Immediately after my wife professed that she wanted for us to have a decent family photoshoot, I googled the web and the first name that popped out of the screen impressed both of us with his work. Serendipitously, we commissioned Sunny Tan for an hour of photo session and we’re glad to choose him as our photographer! He’s so easy to work with; days prior to our schedule, he’s so pleasant to communicate with. We asked for his suggested venues for the photoshoot and everything seemed fine but Macalister Mansion was on the top of my list. I was so happy we all agreed! Even happier that for a change, I got to be on the frames of the photos again as I was photographed with my family unlike my usual role of being behind the lens all the time taking the shots.

As a courtesy, I just had to notify Macalister Mansion about our plan to do the photo session at their lawn and in one of their restaurants. Tina and I were glad to received a positive response from them. The staff was really accomodating and friendly. We appreciated the fact that even their Events Manager gave me a call, hours before our schedule. Too bad their Dining Room restaurant was still closed at our chosen time and they had to prepare for a reserved function so we settled for Macalister Mansion’s Living Room restaurant and their lawn that are equally sleek, splendid and pretty.

We’re all excited to do the shoot however, despite the fact that it was sunshiny all Saturday morning, it started to drizzle at early evening. Nonetheless, our photographer’s brilliant skills shone brighter when he worked with whatever we’re left with. We cannot wait to share it on this blog and on our facebook sites as soon as Sunny’s done with everything in few weeks or so. We told him it’s not only for our family’s keepsake but will be part of our Christmas memories this year and our upcoming 9th Wedding Anniversary by first week of January 2013. He promised to deliver the photos soon!

As we wanted to maximize the afternoon, unwind and free our minds from daily hassles, we went to the Living Room restaurant in Macalister Mansion around 3 hours prior to our photo session. My family and I sampled a few from their tea time menu.

TWG English Breakfast Tea pot for me, uniquely paired it with Mango Sticky Rice topped with Ice Cream. Tina enjoyed her Cappuccino and Strawberry Tart while Gabby had a tasty slice of Chocolate Cake and Berry-Smoothies. Several minutes after, the kiddo requested another plate; he downed Spaghetti with Beef Ragout. What a wonderful light meal we had! Everything’s deliciously divine!

When Gabby and I went to the tandas (toilet) for the necessary bladder break, we saw more fascinating things that pleased our eyes.

Look, the white bear found his match…

So here are my loving and beautiful dates at the Living Room of Macalister Mansion…

Despite and in spite of everything, there are a lot of things to be thankful for! And as for December, it’s indeed the most wonderful time of the year; it’s the happiest season of all!

*This is NOT a sponsored post. However, my family and I would like to thank the following :

Sunny San | http://www.sunnysan.com/ | Sunny San on facebook | Happy Family by Sunny San on fb

Macalister Mansion | 228 Macalister Road 10400 GeorgeTown, Penang | http://macalistermansion.com/

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Nov

THE NIGHT WHEN EVERYONE’S YOUNG

By docgelo 2 Comments

Categories: EVENTS, FAMILY : LOVE KO 'TO and MALAYSIA
Tags: children, dances, doc gelo, docgelo, education, expat blog, expat blogger, expatriate blog, family, family blog, filipino family, kids, music, penang malaysia, performances, school, songs

About a couple of weeks ago, Gabby came home with an award…

What can we say but we’re so proud of him as always! Apparently, the certificate came in early prior to their Awards and Graduation Night. The recognition of the achievers and contest winners in their school were cited during the same night when little kids also graduated from their levels. Parents, teachers and children in Gabby’s school here in Butterworth, Penang gathered once more just like last year at the pool side at the 5th level of the apartment building where Gabby’s school principal resides.

And similar to most gatherings, it started with a simple and casual dining! Yum yum yum!

In between awarding ceremony and raffle draws, there was the cute graduation of the little kiddos!

Twas an evening of performances too! All songs and dances were performed by Gabby’s schoolmates themselves. Gabby was involved in two dances, one of them was an interpretative dance and the other one’s pop but both were religiously inspired.

Photo-ops with the Filipina who works in Gabby’s school…Salamat, Ate Josephine!

And Asian smiles from the Malaysian school owners and colleagues from Pakistan whose children are Gabby’s schoolmates…

Congratulations, anak! You did a great job! We’re always proud of you! We love you!

________________________

Nov

HER SPECIAL DAY THIS YEAR

By docgelo 22 Comments

Mic test. mic test. mic test. Test 1. 2. 3. Test….

I’d like to dedicate this song to my beautiful & loving wife, Tina.

And I hope she’ll like it.

Ugh hem…*clears throat*

*inhale, sing*

“Happy Birthday to you! Happy Birthday to you! Happy Birthday, Happy Birthday….

Happy Birthday to you!”

25 November 2012. Sunday. It’s officially two days after Tina turned 36. She doesn’t look her age, does she? She’ll kill me for posting this. But heck, we don’t need to hide our age; at least we’re still young and have so many years ahead of us! And because her Natal day this year was a Friday, she wanted no fancy celebration at work nor at home. Honestly, I even volunteered to cook her pasta or buy her a cake but she chose otherwise. Yes, I had to ask her as she doesn’t like surprises. She wanted a simple family celebration the weekend after her special day.

Here we go.

Around 10AM, we walked from Jetty in Weld Quay in George Town, Penang to ChinaHouse. En route, we surprisingly saw one of the recently installed murals in this UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Must have photo-ops.

Taaaaadaaaah!!!

10: 20AM. ChinaHouse.

If you’re following this blog, you certainly know that Gabby and I already enjoyed ChinaHouse (I even won a 100-ringgit-voucher here via their photo contest recently). However, it was Tina’s first time so we’re all quite excited for her. We didn’t have any reservation but we’re quite early, so we’re lucky to avail a table for three.

Breakfast. What’s for breakfast?

After I quickly spotted my choices (plural!) from ChinaHouse’s menu, I told the two loves of my life that I’ll take some shots first. They absolutely know the drill so they didn’t mind me. :)

The table beside us. Lovely.

The painting above it. Lovelier.

Then I walked few steps, I saw this grills on the door. Loveliest.

More pleasant things you don’t see on a daily basis…

For the second time, I’m telling you –if you’re following this blog, you know I’ve featured ChinaHouse a couple of times already but it has more fascinating corners to explore.

Back to my family…. Picture!!!

The table behind ours has a pretty painting too. Picture!!!

Good food, nice art works, a wine cellar, a library, a coffee shop and a restaurant, a concert bar, a great chill out place under a Heritage roof!

Meanwhile, here’s a showcase of how beautiful my family is!

Then the FOOD. Glorious first meal of the day.

Tina and I agreed to share on a 10-ringgit pot of Jasmine tea. Soothing!

The birthday girl decided for a cheese omelet plate. She and Gabby liked it. I liked it too!

From the kiddie meal menu, our 8-year-old-wonder boy opted for spaghetti with cheese beef balls. He didn’t finish it. We had it as takeaway and we wolfed it down as dinner at home. It’s not your ordinary spaghetti. The beef flavor’s too strong for our palates. Must be Malaysian; I might be wrong.

While I chose Big Breakfast, I thought it’s a misnomer. I believed it should have been named Biggest Breakfast!!!

Boy, oh boy! McDonald’s version would look like less. Just so you know, I didn’t finish it too. I saved the bread slices which were really good, as takeaway too. Because I had a humongous plate, I passed up the desserts.

While Tina and Gabby were anticipating theirs. Here’s what they had.

Gabby’s choice : Eggnog Cheesecake. Sarap!

Tina went for a slice of Marjolaine. Mas masarap!!!

She sliced her cake into halves… et voila!

One more time, with feelings! LOL!

Packed everything for takeaway. Settled the bill and burp!

Then we went up the art gallery of ChinaHouse. Picture!!!

ahhhhhhh!!!!!

Around half hour past 1PM, we hopped on the bus and we trooped to Queensbay Mall. We did a little shopping for some necessities and off we went to another gastronomic feast. Well, not actually. We planned to drop by J.Co Donuts and purchase a box for takeaway. Yes, another takeaway. You know, for dinner, for breakfast and dinner again the next day. To fill in the fridge!

And so our bloodstream became hyperglycemic again with these donuts that FILIPINOS in Metro Manila are currently going crazy about (Read: They’re on queue for at least an hour for these J.Co Donuts. For real!!!)!!! It must be the donuts or my fellowmen or both. I cannot blame them; these donuts are indeed softer than Krispy Kreme, GoNuts Donuts and Dunkin Donuts; although I love ’em all!

In our more than two years here in Penang, I think it’s only second time we savored J.Co. And again, there was no long queues.

Here are those freebies that go with our drinks…

DELICIOUS!!!

Tina loved her Cappuccino and JCoccino donut!

While I enjoyed Berry Berrymore! (sounds like Drew Barrymore!)

More pictures…

And I cannot agree more with J.Co….

I love you, Tina & Gabby!

_________________________

Nov

WEEKLY PHOTO CHALLENGE : THANKFUL

By docgelo 16 Comments

Categories: FAMILY : LOVE KO 'TO and MALAYSIA
Tags: doc gelo, docgelo, expatriate, family, filipino in malaysia, nando's, photos, postaday, thanksgiving

Despite everything, we have so much to be thankful for! Above all, I’m grateful to the Lord for giving me a happy, healthy and beautiful family. Thank you too to my family for making my life complete. Happy Thanksgiving!

This is my entry to Weekly Photo Challenge : Thankful

PS : Happy Birthday to my loving wife, my best friend, Tina! Gabby & I love you, honey!

*GOOD NEWS : To those who read & follow my blog, I’ll appreciate if you could drop a line or two about my blogging via ths link :http://www.expatsblog.com/blogs/1157/beyond-toxicity; this is in line with the BEST EXPAT BLOG AWARDS run by ExpatsBlog.com. Maraming salamat po!

Nov

WE GOT FREE BRUNCH @ CHINAHOUSE

By docgelo 20 Comments

10 November 2012. Saturday. Between Victoria and Beach Streets, George Town, Penang.

Hats off and thank you very much to the 567 facebook buddies who voted for my photo entry at ChinaHouse Shoot and Win contest. Whether you clicked ‘like’ voluntarily or voted with force and coercion, hahaha! it became one of the 8 finalists! Maraming Salamat po! Congratulations too to the 2 Chinese-Malaysian winners!

Despite I didn’t win that Langkawi getaway, we devoured a FREE brunch at ChinaHouse and for that, I am so grateful!!!

It’s nice to indulge once in a while with your love ones and even nicer if it’s FREE!
Now, try to spot Gabby amidst that heavenly table…

Bingo! I felt I won the jackpot when I saw that spread again! Salivary glands and gastric acid secreting cells were all stimulated. Judgment on what to order was the biggest problem. It took us a while to decide from the menu. So while waiting for our food and having difficulty of choosing desserts, I cannot get enough of it and snapped my camera a countless times on that table filled with cakes and pastries! Here’s a few of my captures of that mouthwatering ChinaHouse spread…

Is it not happiness?

We texted and called Tina who opted to stay in our apartment to get some extra hours of rest and do motherly and wifely duties at home (read : household chores).

I noticed it didn’t take a while for our choices to land on our table. Let the pig-out begin!

Gabby ordered two plates. First was Toasted Banana Bread With Fresh Banana and Cream.

While I enjoyed the tasteful Homemade Beef Sausage & Scrambled Egg Muffin with Tomato Relish.

That tomato relish was the bomb! It complemented my breakfast plate so well that it made me forget about the importance of calorie counter. Got yah! I’m not on a dietary regimen (yet). In as much as I want to give importance to health as my license and profession dictate me to do so, indulgence ruled over those moments! I was too weak (again) to resist! Resistance is futile once more! LOL!

Gabby’s second plate was Yoghurt, Fresh Fruit Salad with Granola & Honey. Sugar and sweetness overload!

Our wonder boy didn’t finish everything he ordered; I guess like me, he was overwhelmed! No problem as it’s a part of my Daddy duties to finish the plate whenever needed *insert evil grin here*.

Before ordering desserts (yes, we still had room for sweet endings!), Gabby walked to the shelves and got some kiddie books. He initially browsed the very educational (kidding!) Pokemon!

then he shifted his pure and young attention to a more serious, morally uplifting hardbound, “Walter the Farting Dog”, LOL!

Not long after, our appetites were ready again! Gabby had few fork-dunks on Chocoholics’ Chocolate Cake; the rest of its slice was our takeaway for Tina.

Over and beyond those multiple cakes and pastries, I succumbed to the decision of having Tiramisu again. It’s really unforgettable the first time I had it, thus a repeat was a must!

ChinaHouse’s Tiramisu, now officially known as one of my kryptonites!

To wash everything down, I had Fresh Orange Juice while Gabby didn’t finish his glass of Strawberry Smoothies. Water in a cute capped tall bottle was provided free (FYI, other restaurants in Penang charge a few cents for iced water).

After our 112-ringgit-hearty-brunch, Gabby and I went to the first floor (yes, it’s ground floor first here in Malaysia) to see the art gallery of ChinaHouse.

Luckily, it’s opened as it was otherwise during my first visit. There’s an on-going-art-exhibits of various local artists of which one’s entitled, Circus, I think. Pardon me as I didn’t get the other titles of the show.

It’s almost past noon when we left ChinaHouse.

Gabby and I agreed that Tina will like ChinaHouse too. And with that, it’s a conclusion that it won’t be our last to dine-in at ChinaHouse; we shall be back one day with my loving wife.

Thank you so much, ChinaHouse! You’re one of our family’s best food finds in George Town, Penang!

*For my first blog post about ChinaHouse, click THIS!!!

_______________________

CHINAHOUSE | 153 & 155 Beach Street & 183B Victoria Street, George Town, Penang. http://chinahouse.com.my/

Nov

MY WIFE’S CULINARY PROWESS PART 2

By docgelo 19 Comments

For five years of this blog’s existence, few loyal readers have witnessed how the love for food binds my family and I together. Tina, Gabby and I certainly love to eat! And our tastebuds have the same preferences either dining out or just eating within the comforts of our home. Although I know how to perk up some tasteful dishes too, the credit goes to my loving wife who devotes so much of her TIME and EFFORTS not only at work but at the kitchen department to fill up our tummies with not just mediocre cooking but feasts that we usually crave for!

Here are some of her masterpieces, at least for Gabby and me!

This dish has shrimps, green bell pepper in light and sweet soy sauce, if not oyster sauce. It’s too delicious, I forgot to ask her what it’s called!

Vanhouten, sometimes Cadbury Chocolate Chamorado at Tuyo is one of our comfort foods! Even Gabby became biased with Champorado at Tuyo! Yes, our 8-year-old kiddo loves tuyo, he eats it also sans champorado but with rice and dips its shredded bits on vinegar! Regardless of the weather -rainy days or even when the sun is out; for breakfast or as late afternoon snack, this combo remains a personal favorite!

Ebi Tempura and Chicken Cordon Bleu. All.From.Scratch!

This one needs no introduction. Pass the vinegar, please! And let’s eat with bare hands, c’mmon! ;)

Bistek Tagalog with Blanched Veggies. I’m salivating now.

Some photographed pasta dishes the past months include this Crispy Noodle…

and the classic Creamy Carbonara with homemade Garlic Bread that she made for our birthdays (Gabby’s last October, and mine’s September). While Gabby dislikes bacon and only wants the pasta and the creamy cheesy buttery sauce, I love it up to its last bacon bits. LOL!

For dessert, Maja Blanca con Maiz

For someone like Tina who doesn’t have formal background in culinary arts, and for Gabby and me, those dishes are already superb despite its few imperfections. As mentioned, hours are usually spent in preparing them. Time and efforts for the family are always priceless!

With those few compiled food photos, one of my suntok-sa-buwan-wishes of putting up our very own food place someday lives on. Let’s see if it will materialize someday. Who knows what destiny brings? I am only sure of the fact that we love food and we like to eat – a lot!!!

Part 1 of this blog’s series here : My Wife’s Culinary Prowess

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Nov

TWO WORLDS IN ONE AFTERNOON

By docgelo 9 Comments

Similar to my previous weekends when I killed a few hours of walking around George Town, Penang with the sole aim of capturing things I fancy on my cam, I didn’t plan to take Gabby with me but my 8 year old son decided to tag along again as I opted to spend my late Saturday afternoon in two areas in the island. Before we left our apartment, it was made clear to him and to his mom that malls and fastfood joints aren’t included in my itineraries. The boy was adventurous and excited to come with me; I welcomed the idea that he’s open to try things outside the box at such a young age.

Hopping on the bus and taking the 15-minute ferry ride from Butterworth to George Town, Penang aren’t unusual to us but going to a nearby clan jetty doesn’t happen even on a weekly basis. I took my feet and Gabby to one of those waterfront settlements of Chinese families who left their country of origin to live in the coastal waters of Penang, the Tan Jetty.

Unlike the CHEW JETTY which is more frequented by tourists and travelers, Tan Jetty does not have much settlers. The houses were less in number, there’s nothing much to appreciate except the existence of an authentic Thai restaurant and a narrower wooden walkway that extends to the sea. I wonder how glorious to catch the sunrise and sunset here!

What Gabby and I saw will definitely not appeal to those who value aesthetics and comfort over and beyond history and heritage. What made the sight a bit unpleasant was the fact that it was low tide when we arrived and the place, despite peaceful and tranquil, screams the need for maintenance.

I initially wanted Gabby to simply stand still near the Thai restaurant and wait for me while I take some photos but he’s determined to stroll down that tall and narrow wooden path. I told you, Gabby’s into this adventure too! So we held hands and took steps farther. At halfway towards the end of the wooden walkway, there’s a small Buddhist temple and the awesome view of the bay.

We only stayed in Tan Jetty less than half an hour but that minimal time gave us a different view of life in Penang. I’m also proud to state that Gabby braved that wooden planks and experienced a totally unique environment that’s incomparable with airconditioned malls, comfortable hotel rooms and wonderful theme parks.

We walked back to Weld Quay and took a 5 minute Rapid Penang bus ride to Jalan Penang (or Penang Road). We hopped off the bus just before Cititel Hotel and turned left to Muntri Street. The second world we visited in George Town that weekend was Soul Kitchen in Muntri Street.

Soul Kitchen is an Italian eatery located in front of Modern Hotel; oh yes! You read it right; it’s modern!

Admittedly, it’s not that common to find a non-Halal restaurant in George Town unless hawker stalls manned by Chinese-Malaysians. Soul Kitchen is uniquely different. It’s owned by a German and Malaysian couple by the names of Tonio and Michele. This restaurant boasts of authentic Italian dishes with ingredients mostly not found in the usual food places in Penang. The unpretentious shophouse-converted-into-a-food-place is a haven for those who look for something extraordinary.

Michele immediately approached us to hand in the menu. There were menu boards and the list of beverages available were on a simple black piece of paper. I asked her of the available pizza, because my boy loves pizza and Michele replied back with a query. She casually inquired if we eat pork. I said, Yes! She told me there’s Parma Ham pizza and some pasta; she also mentioned we can have the pizza in two flavors, half with prosciutto or parma ham and rocula, and the rest of the slices with only cheese. That rang a bell to Gabby’s ears since he’s a purist when it comes to pizza. We also ordered Pork Lasagne and washed everything down with Iced Cappuccino for me and Coke for Gabby.

Parma Ham Rucola Parmesan…

Lasagne…

Gabby and I loved the pizza! Its pretty thin crust and loads of cheese and prosciutto, plus its rare oval shape made it special however a bit pricey at RM 24 for half serving of parma ham. It’s reasonable for those ingredients, I guess. Although the pizza was nice and all, the lasagne needs a little improvement. The Iced Cappuccino is sweet and strong, I liked!

Dinner, solb!!!

Before I googled the web and stumbled upon Soul Kitchen, I never expected to find an authentic Italian eatery amidst Nasi Lemak and Char-Koay-Teow-dominated food stalls! More so, I never thought that an unassuming restaurant could serve freshly baked Parma Ham Pizza that tasted variably delicious compared with that of our favorite Pizza Hut! Sometimes, those that are less commercialized are more satisfying!

Going to Tan Jetty to explore a different environment and discovering another food place in Soul Kitchen offered something new to us. It certainly broke the monotony of our weekday routines and weekend escapes.

I believe that we need to step out of our comfort zones sometimes to uncover more things and places that we’re already familiar with; such will provide a better appreciation of the world we live in.

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Oct

INSPIRED BY THE WALKING DEAD

By docgelo 14 Comments

If you’ve been following this blog, you’ve definitely seen these photos taken from years of Gabby’s trick or treating in his school and malls in Manila and a mall here in Penang.

Several weeks back, Tina and I asked our 8-year-old kiddo if he still digs being in costume to celebrate Halloween. Gabby replied positively but he professed he doesn’t want to join any contest in the mall like what he did before. He only wanted to have fun and enjoy the occasion. OK. Fine.

Luckily, few malls here in Penang partake in this Western tradition of celebrating Halloween; we had choices where to go to. Last year, we had it at Queensbay Mall while this year, we spent half of our Sunday at 1st Avenue Mall.

And because Gabby’s a bit older already, his choices in all things also mature gradually. This Halloween, he opted to dress as a zombie, perhaps so inspired by one of our favorite TV series, The Walking Dead. After having an idea of what to wear, Tina began to be more imaginative this time on how to zombie-fied our cute little Gabby.

She started with what we have in the kitchen. Egg white, artificial food coloring and tissue paper worked well with my wife’s creativity.

She used these to make fake blood; the egg white served as binder or glue the tissue paper on Gabby’s school-boy-complexion making him look more like someone from the grave. Clever eh? I say pure talent! LOL!

At home, they had rehearsal. The two were in character!!!

Call it weird but at least it’s clean FUN and most importantly, we’re HAPPY!

28 OCTOBER 2012. Sunday. 1st Avenue Mall. We found a seat inside Starbucks Coffee after engaging on a hearty brunch meal at Dome. Of course, I needed to take the “BEFORE” photo of the two.

Beautiful, aren’t they?
Then my wife brought out all her stuffs -food colors, hypoallergenic face makeup, sheets of tissue paper, and yes, an egg that she had to crack on the table of Starbucks to get its white.

Gabby wanted it, so he was so submissive. Take note, there’s no coercion nor force here!

Just so you know, my wife is a professional Operating Room Nurse and a former Clinical Instructor and she has no formal schooling on makeup more so on prosthetics but isn’t her work amazing? And apparently, Gabby’s the cutest “Walking Dead” ever!!!

Must be in character!

Despite there were no candies, no loot bags that’s so unlikely the Philippines (we certainly miss going to Greenbelt, Landmark, TriNoma, and Gateway!), we all had fun taking photos of those Malaysians who were in costumes too!

HAPPY HALLOWEEN!!!

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Oct

HISTORY REPEATS ITSELF

By docgelo 2 Comments

No, this isn’t about History but something about Science. Nothing too heavy; just about Gabby and me and a wonderful repetition of what’s done in the past.

Ages ago when I was in 4th (or was it 3rd?) grade in Marikina Catholic School, I was assigned to a Science project called, “Soil Erosion”. With only two rectagular wooden boxes at hand –one with soil, the other one with soil and plant and a small water dipper, I presented my experiement at the school’s Science Fair. For one whole day, my classmates and I were provided individual tables inside a classroom to set up our experiments for demonstration. When guests, teachers and other students started to pour in, I remember I had to repeat the explanation to my “experiment” several times over. Then came the nuns, teachers and a priest who all held pens and papers, dropped by each table to asked queries about each presentation. I didn’t know it’s a contest, much more I didn’t expect to win as somewhat like, the Best Science Project or so. It’s a pleasant surprise after a long and tiring day at school.

Looking back, I think it gave me the first exposure in public speaking that serendipitously led me to what I do now for a living.

Fast forward to October 15, 2012, Monday, it was time for our son, Gabby to present a Science project in school here in Penang. Nothing specific was assigned to him, only something to do with Science. The 8-year-old boy had so many things in mind. Initially, he wanted to create and bring a model of a head that when lifted, will expose a model of a brain, then he also thought of making a volcano that would errupt and a few more of ideas that he got from watching Science-and-craft-oriented shows on TV and from reading encyclopedia in school. I casually told my family about my “Soil Erosion” project back in my days. Probably because of its simplicity, environmental and social relevance, they agreed on the suggestion. Together, Gabby and I recereated what I demonstrated in our Science Fair back in the mid 80s.

We didn’t have rectangular wooden boxes so we used two plastic pots –one with soil, the other one with a plant.

Although, everything was made in a rush, I had fun helping out Gabby with his project. I prepared a written report about his Soil Erosion; Tina helped me out to simplify the words that kids of Gabby’s age and younger could easily understand. Say, for example instead of using the word, “objectives”, we used “goals” or rather than using the word, “applied”, we used “added” and for ”methodology”, ”procedures”.

Apparently, it’s difficult to explain and demonstrate something that’s new to you and things you don’t comprehend so we made sure Gabby understood what his project is all about before he brought everything in school.

The boy easily grasped everything after I showed him photos of flood and landslides from the web. Gabby saw images from the Philippines that captured effects of having less or no trees in the mountains that supposed to absorb water from rainfall. His reaction was the same as mine.

I instructed him to use plastic and old newspapers as the base of his set up and told him that the roots of the plant in his experiment represent the roots of trees, and the soil in the pots depicts the Earth. Obviously, when he pours water in each pots, the one with no plant would wash down soil particles in an instant.

After his day in school, Tina and I asked Gabby how his experiment demonstration was and our wonder boy only replied smilingly, “It’s OK!”

Oct

HIS HALLOWEEN HISTORY

By docgelo 13 Comments

October. It’s that month of the year again when my family usually plan for Trick or Treating. Back in the Philippines since Gabby turned two, Tina and I used to bring him in full Halloween kiddie costume in TriNoma, Glorietta and Greenbelt malls and even in his school in Quezon City where he spent his Nursery, Kindergarten and Preparatory years, he participated and enjoyed Halloween celebration with his classmates and teachers. And when I brought them here to Penang, Malaysia in 2011, he also joined a Trick or Treat Halloween Costume Contest where he donned a Chinese-Pirate costume complete with face-make-up done by his lovely mom. He didn’t win in the contest but happily gained experience blending with Malaysian kids inside the mall. The photos above apparently show Gabby had fun in those Trick or Treating years. But for this year when Gabby turned 8 and has been acting and thinking like a young teenager already (read : he speaks of his crushes in school frequently), I’m not so sure if he still digs Halloween stuff; what I am definite is the fact that he’s excited again for the toys that Santa Claus will give him this Christmas.

This is one of the joys of spending QUALITY TIME with the family; regardless of the season or the occasion, it’s always nice when an ordinary moment turns into unforgettable pleasant memories.

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Oct

CELEBRATORY FEAST : GABBY’S EIGHTH BIRTHDAY

By docgelo 28 Comments

It was already late evening of Friday, October 5th, 2012 when I got a chance to view the attached photos on my Inbox sent by Gabby’s teacher & school owner taken using her iphone. I smiled and I appreciated the concern, love and care expressed to our son by his generous and thoughtful Malaysian-Chinese teacher. Thank you so much, Ms. Jasmine! The photos showed Gabby and his teacher’s son eating burgers and fries in McDonald’s after school; a simple birthday treat yet so special to Gabby and to us! Tina and I really found it so heartwarming!

OUR SON IS LOVED; WE’RE GRATEFUL!

Because his birthday falls on a weekday this year, Friday to be exact, we chose not to absent ourselves from work and school thus, another extraordinary weekend was brewed.

Little did we know that Gabby told his teacher the reason why he’s not having that ceremonial birthday cake candle blowing over the usual birthday song singing with party hats, some pasta and loot bags in school like what he used to have back home (If you’ve been following this blog, you’re familiar with Gabby’s SPONGEBOB THEMED 5TH BIRTHDAY PARTY ) it’s because we planned to celebrate his 8th birthday the way we know how : BUFFET!!!

Long before his big day, we already talked and decided where to spend it; and among the hotels and restaurants we’ve tried, a unanimous decision was made : G Hotel at Gurney Drive, Penang!

UNBIASED OPINION OF A NON-SPONSORED DINING

Among the few premier hotels and restaurants in Penang that my family and I have sampled, G Cafe in G Hotel has always been remarkably pleasant. We like its polite and quick service, great tasting dishes with a wide variety but not overwhelming, and its contemporary and edgy, elegant and sophisticated but non-intimidating ambiance. Not to forget its reasonable and affordable cost for an eat-all-you-want dining on lunch, high tea or dinner. They even made it more budget-friendly as we availed of the 15% discount offer that we got for being Rapid Penang Bus commuters. Best of all, G Cafe staff granted my request for a FREE birthday cake with a candle to blow for Gabby! They gave an instant nod without hesitation; many thanks to that!

There are other restaurants inside G Hotel and at G Cafe, there are two dining spots. It’s our third time to eat inside G Cafe’s airconditioned dining area and have not favored yet their open-air eating space.

So here’s where we sat and dined…

And here’s a portion of their eat-all-you-want-spread that evening…

I like their simple and minimalist display and fixtures that perfectly complemented the modern and somewhat masculine appeal of the entire all-day-dining-restaurant. I also think the use of BLUE tones in lighting and glasses excellent! It’s quite uncommon choice for restaurants yet so regal.

G Cafe offers different themed dining every night and it was our second time to try their International Cuisine-BARBECUE NIGHT!

There were grilled prawns, grilled lamb, grilled fish, and grilled squid…

Roasted lamb, anyone?

Tina and I tried a few slices from the carving station but honestly, we’re not fanatics of lamb unlike the others despite G Cafe’s version was tender.

Usually, it’s a toss between salad and soup for me, I went for the latter first and enjoyed every spoonful of sweet corn and chicken soup! It was thick and superb! Really tasteful!

But then again, I thought I am just a mere mortal and very weak to pass up on these yummies! Tee hee!

I did not! We did not pass up on the salads. We had a little bit of everything!

We liked the Smoked Duck Salad even though I was telling Tina how I missed G Cafe’s Prawn Salad (told you, they’ve variety every night!), the fusion of the smoked duck meat cut into strips and those mango and veggies in julienne cuts were an absolute match made in Penang!

How about Smoked Salmon Salad that beautifully blended with those avocado cubes?

Irresistible! Then you see more Hors d’oeuvre like different chunks and slices of cheese and biscuits…

And then there’s this crunchy and sweet and a bit spicy dried fish called IKAN BILIS ISTIMEWA which to me was one of the most appetizing appetizers I’ve ever tasted! Or is it an entree? Hahaha! FYI, istimewa means special! It reminded me of a locally dried fish back home called, Danggit, although it’s all salty and crunchy when fried, this Ikan Bilis Istimewa came with flavors and texture that burst every bite! Sarap! Sedap! It’s really something you’ll crave for! Delicious sans vinegar! I wish I had more servings!

Meanwhile, here’s my salad plate…

Tina’s seafood plate…

Everything was fine particularly the salmon sashimi except for the scallops; they were flat and disappointing!

While the birthday boy was certain of his choices…

Our palates savored the sushi rolls too! I always profess my fascination to Japanese dishes. It’s amazing that they’re both art and nourishment at the same time! My love affair with sushi and sashimi makes me wonder if I’m half blood Japanese, hahaha!

Tina tried the Chicken Shawarma and Roasted Lamb. I tasted their version of Shawarma before and it didn’t impress my tastebuds. I’m still partial with similar Mediterranean favorite back home.

Tina’s plate filled with grilled stuffs…

And here are my plates…

There were a lot more dishes on the spread and a noodle station that we failed to sample. Nonetheless, we made sure we reserved gastric space for desserts.

HYPERGLYCEMIA : REDEFINED

In our third time to dine at G Cafe in G Hotel in our more than two years of being expatriates in Penang, we’re loving the fact that we have experienced the evolution of dessert offerings. Let the photos do the talking. Sweet, sweeter, sweetest!

Who knew my family and I could enjoy an eat-all-you-want Baskin Robbins ice cream? I don’t know about you, but for jologs like me, it’s a big deal already! A BIG PLUS for this buffet actually!
So my sweet tooth became happier again with every scoop of Baskin Robbins included in the buffet spread. I had Mint Chocolate Chip and Vanilla which are two of my favorite flavors, I also had Strawberry Sherbet and Green Tea. I was content with just the scoops sans toppings and syrups. I’m a purist when it comes to ice cream or at least in this occasion.

While Tina was in bliss with her gummies toppings over her Baskin Robbins…

I wish all the sweets in the dessert spread had labels. Because there were none, I relied on my gustatory skills. These bite-sized cakes that tasted peanut butter at its creamiest earned my thumbs up!

Another must-try at G Cafe’s dessert spread is this beautiful pastry. Believe it or not, the filling inside those dark chocolate cream icings is a tiny strawberry –just imagine the tug-o-war of bitter-sweet taste of the dark chocolate against the sour-sweet taste of strawberry. The combination’s brilliant! Then each was sandwiched by a light chocolate meringue. Wonderful! The toothsome flavors and luxurious textures were so amazing! I’ll bring back my family there for these!

How about a munch-all-you-want macarons? Heavenly. Just heavenly.

The birthday boy loves cheesecake…We all do!

Mini Cupcakes, FTW!

I’m now lost for superlatives to describe these…*drooling*

One of Tina’s dessert plates… yes, one of them!

While here’s a shameless display of mine…

After a great and hearty meal, must have coffee.

And before you forget it’s Gabby’s 8th birthday celebration, here’s the documentation of that special moment…

G Cafe at G Hotel became uberly generous again in granting my request to provide a FREE birthday cake with a candle for Gabby to blow. Thank you so much, G Cafe! …And just so you know, Gabby held the bread knife to slice his birthday cake just like a CIRUJANO would do an incision; we didn’t coach him to do so.

The necessary family portrait…

Happy 8th Birthday, son! WE LOVE YOU VERY MUCH!

___________________

*This is NOT a sponsored post for G Cafe at G Hotel, Penang. We wish!

Oct

OUR FAMILY’S GREATEST BLESSING TURNS EIGHT

By docgelo 24 Comments

Categories: FAMILY : LOVE KO 'TO
Tags: birthday, celebrate, celebration, child's life, children, doc gelo, docgelo, family, family life, gabby's birthday, Life, love

There’s so much to be thankful for! There’s a lot of reasons to celebrate!

Happy 8th Birthday, Gabby! We love you very much, anak! -Daddy & Mommy.

————————–

Oct

SIX PLEASANT THINGS LAST WEEKEND

By docgelo 8 Comments

29 September 2012. Saturday. Gabby and I spent almost a day in a mall; we also went to a seafront retail marina in Penang called, Straits Quay and found these six pleasant things that definitely spell happiness when viewed through a child’s heart.

[1] Kindergarten Dragon Dance. They’re too cute for words! They’re young, passionate & inspiring.

[2] Gabby’s new treasures : Lego Spongebob Squarepants The Flying Dutchman set, one of his parents’ advance birthday gifts to him.

[3] Mooncakes because it’s Mid Autumn Festival. Doraemon Mooncakes in Corn and Chocolate Lotus Oreo Almond flavors!

[4] Wushu. Traditional with competitive spirit.

[5] Straits Quay, Penang. Fresh air. Fun.Food & Festivity in this seafront marina.

[6] Charlie Brown Cafe. Our second time there to sip a cup of coffee and chocolate and indulge in some slices of cakes! And because Gabby will turn eight in few days’ time, we had an advance and simple celebration! There’s more to come for this little-big boy! A brilliant and promising future awaits him!

Advance Happy 8th Birthday, anak! We love you so much, Gabby!

Oct

OCTOBER FIRST TWENTY TWELVE

By docgelo 2 Comments

Categories: FAMILY : LOVE KO 'TO, MALAYSIA and TRAVEL
Tags: christmas, doc gelo, docgelo, expat in malaysia, expatriate in malaysia, family, family abroad, fed ex, fun, Legoland, Legoland Malaysia, overseas filipino

After conducting three lecture classes at 2 hour each, I finally got a chance to sit in front of my desk at the office and finally exhaled.

Then the phone rang.

The office’s receptionist : “Hello, may I speak with Dr. Angelo?”
Me : “Speaking. May I know who’s on the line, please?”
The office’s receptionist : “(After mentioning her name)…I received a parcel for you. You may collect it from here in Block C. Thank you!”

I knew it’s from Legoland Malaysia as they mentioned it on their email a few weeks back that they’d send a media pack to me & for my family. I claimed the package, gave it to Tina and waited for us to arrive home before opening it.

Upon arriving home…

The package contained 3 T-shirts for Tina, Gabby & me, a larnyard, a USB-flash drive disguised as a baller band and some stickers all put inside a Legoland Malaysia media pack bag. Thank you so much, LEGOLAND MALAYSIA!

After dinner, Gabby’s wish to rise our tiny Christmas tree came true.

We welcome all blessings, big and small to our home!

*PS : My blog post about our LEGOLAND MALAYSIA experience –> HERE!

Sep

A SATURDAY IN SINGAPORE : CROSSING BORDERS ON FOOT

By docgelo 9 Comments

Categories: FAMILY : LOVE KO 'TO, FOOD & MORE FOOD!, SINGAPORE and TRAVEL
Tags: artscience museum marina bay sands singapore, beef pepper rice, bus from singapore to johor bahru, bus to singapore from johor bahru, cut by wolfgang puck in marina bay sands, doc gelo, docgelo, expat, expat blog in malaysia, family, filipino expatriates in malaysia, food, fun, harry potter, harry potter exhibit, harry potter exhibition artscience musuem singapore, how to travel by bus from malaysia to singapore, how to travel by bus from singapore to malaysia, johor bahru, kota raya, larkin bus station, Legoland Malaysia, lifestyle blog, marina bay sands, mozza, mozza by mario batali in marina bay sands, mrt stations in singapore, overseas blogger, Pepper Lunch, singapore, TRAVEL, travel blog, travel by land from malaysia to singapore, travel by land from singapore to malaysia, travelling

Love in the Lion City. Photo taken at ArtScience Museum, Marina Bay Sands, Singapore.

Despite various challenges of expatriate living in Penang for more than 2 years now, we’ve been counting our blessings continuously. Big and small blessings are all blessings to be grateful for! When I left Manila back in 2010, my only goal was to work for my family; I never thought that earning a decent living in Malaysia would give me an opportunity to bring my family to my work place, to live abroad and be with me, more so, to go to neighboring countries with them with travel expenses less than you imagined.

Flying to another country by all means, is considered the most convenient way but indubitably, doesn’t come cheap in spite of so many seat sales every now and then. Apparently, we’re a family of 3 so all costs are always multiplied by 3. You do the Math, I’m weak at it. Fortunately, Malaysia is a gateway to other Southeast Asian countries that can be explored by crossing borders on foot via commuter buses or trains without spending an arm and a leg. We already experienced crossing Malaysia-Thailand borders on foot last year when we went to HAT YAI and just recently, when we revisited BANGKOK. But it was the first time for us to head south by bus and cross the Malaysia-Singapore borders sans air tickets.

Another grace from living in Malaysia is delighting in a volume of gazetted public holidays within a year. On our last long weekend, we savored my invitation to review LEGOLAND MALAYSIA in Johor Bahru, the Malaysian state a few kilometers away from the Lion City. Expectedly, we grabbed the opportunity to visit Singapore again. My family’s very first trip to Singapore was in August-September 2011, and I came back solo in mid-July a year after to attend to the sponsored trip by OASIA HOTEL and SINGAPORE BLOG AWARDS. It always feels good to go back to the city and unwind.

THE NIGHT SPENT INSIDE SUPER NICE DOUBLE DECKER BUS

The bus liner’s called Super Nice and it truly lived up to its name and our expectations. We availed of our bus tickets to Johor Bahru from Penang Sentral in Butterworth a day before our trip (it’s wiser to purchase an advance tickets, about a week or two prior to schedule; tickets are easily sold out like hotcakes particularly during long holidays).

Reclinable seats ala-Lazy-boy, super comfortable leg room and uninterrupted sleep made our night trip very remarkable. For a 60 ringgit (USD 19.60) per ticket, we got to rest entirely and became ulitimately ready for a day in Singapore.

We left Penang around few minutes past 9PM, Friday, September 14, 2012 and arrived Johor Bahru via direct trip (did not pass by Pudu Raya bus station in Kuala Lumpur) at 6:30AM. Nine hours after, we found ourselves in LARKIN BUS STATION in JB. We hit the restrooms to freshen up and filled in our tummies with much needed breakfast.

Our first meal in Johor Bahru were roti canai with egg that came with Indian-Malaysian tamely spicy dip that even Gabby learned to love, coffee for Tina and me, and a canned soya milk for Gabby. Solb!

After grabbing some bites, we hailed a taxi cab and went straight to our hotel in Johor Bahru. Believe it or not, I only made the reservation online few minutes prior leaving our apartment in Penang. Most hotels in Johor Bahru were fully booked because of the much-anticipated-public opening of Legoland MY thus, even the recommended hotel of the said theme park was packed. I luckily chanced upon ZENG ZENG BUDGET HOTEL and paid RM 80 (USD 26) only for one night in a deluxe-twin-bed-air-conditioned room with breakfast for two.

We checked in and paid additional RM 45 (USD 14.70), took shower, freshen up again. The staff of Zen Zeng were so friendly, they were even ready to provide us embarkation cards for Immigration purposes. The staff at the reception counter advised me to take a shorter trip via taxi to the bus station closer than Larkin. Around 11AM, we found ourselves in KOTA RAYA Bus Terminal in Johor Bahru en route to Singapore.

As first time travelers by bus from Malaysia to Singapore, we learned that other than those more expensive tourist buses that one can avail from travel agencies, the best option is to take either of the two public bus numbers that transports passengers in and out of two countries in less than an hour with frequent trips until midnight. These are SBS Transit Bus # 160 that takes travelers from Johor Bahru to Jurong East and the one we rode, SBS Transit Bus # 170 that took us to KRANJI MRT STATION in Singapore from Kota Raya in JB. The fare’s SGD 1.70 per pax (USD 1.38).

There’s a FOREX within (Larkin and) Kota Raya Bus station; we changed our MYR to SGD. Good thing I didn’t forget to bring my few SG coins; they’re necessary for purchasing bus tickets.

Inside SBS Transit Bus # 170…

*TIP : Take all your belongings before you hop off the bus. You only need to pay for the bus ticket ONCE. Keep your bus ticket and alight at Departure Hall/Malaysia Exit border for Immigration purposes. After having your passport stamped (or as they frequently termed it here, chopped), go down the escalators and turn left as you reach ground level. Look for the signage of the SAME BUS NUMBER but NOT necessarily THE SAME BUS (either 170 or 160 if you took SBS Transit), wait and queue. The waiting will not take few minutes. Hop on the bus and no need to pay again, just present your ticket previously purchased. The same process is repeated as you reach Arrival Hall/Singapore Entry border where you need to present passport again and an embarkation card.

Walking towards Arrival Hall/Singapore Entry Border…

*Repeat : Hop on the BUS with the SAME NUMBER but NOT necessarily the SAME BUS. You only pay once. Get it, children?

It was a Saturday, and the following Monday is a replacement holiday in Malaysia so it was not surprising to experience traffic jam in the short bridge connecting Johor Bahru and Singapore. It took us almost an hour and a half exiting Malaysia to Singapore including the Immigration formalities. But on our way back from Singapore to Zen Zeng Hotel in JB that night, traffic was already eased.

Finally, Singapore! We meet again!

SBS Bus Transit # 170 took us to KRANJI MRT Station and from there, we purchased a reloadable MRT cards. It was only one long-45-minute-train ride from Kranji Station to our destination.

“Gabby, look here! Look at the cam!”

It’s impossible to tour Singapore in a day, so we only chose two spots. Because Tina and Gabby had only seen the most luxurious hotel in Singapore from afar last year and they were not with me when I went there last July, I opted to bring them to Marina Bay Sands this time for our late lunch. Yes, it sounded like, we only went to Singapore to eat lunch and dinner and to use their spotless toilets. The other place we went to was City Hall Mall to meet a Singaporean friend.

The scenes inside MRT from Marina Bay Sands Station to Bayfront.

Look how Gabby enjoyed his time inside those highly efficient MRT trains…

Et voila! We’re inside THE SHOPPES AT MARINA BAY SANDS…

I’ve been to the Shoppes at Marina Bay Sands thrice and was invited by the MBS PR Officer to experience Sands Sky Park last July so somehow, I became a bit familiar with this iconic Singaporean landmark. I told Tina and Gabby the dining options in MBS and we knew where to go. With only limited budget, we can only dream of dining in CUT by Wolfgang Puck someday.

It was not Mozza by Mario Batali nor Cut by Wolfgang Puck nevertheless, it was a family favorite! We decided to savor what’s not found in Penang. It was a sumptuous late lunch at PEPPER LUNCH! The last time we had those sizzling-cook-it-yourself-beef-pepper-rice with ultra yummy honey brown sauce and butter was in TUNG CHUNG, HONG KONG last February and in its sole branch in Malaysia in Pavilion Mall, KUALA LUMPUR last May. Gabby’s favorite in PL is Beef Pepper Rice, I always have it double beef servings, while Tina tried PL’s Beef Yakitori with a hint of spicy sauce. Sarap!

After having our late lunch, we went outside MBS and I brought them to ArtScience Museum…

Because Harry Potter The Exhibition which I saw (with Andy Warhol 15 Minutes Eternal Exhibit on media pass) last July was still on display, I was glad Tina and Gabby became excited to see it. It’s a must for fans of HP movie/novel series to experience whenever they find a chance. (The show in MBS runs only until end of Sepetember 2012). We went on queue, paid SGD 24 per ticket for Tina and me and SGD 14 for Gabby. Despite no photography’s allowed inside the exhibit, it’s a bliss to see Gabby enjoying everything, specially pulling those mandrakes from its pots and shooting balls in that Quidditch set up. Tina had fun going through all those props and costumes used in the actual movies as well. It felt stepping inside the movie scene and it was more exciting for me the second time around.

Love Marina Bay Sands… Definitely, a breath of fresh air!

DINNER AT CITY HALL MALL

We left Marina Bay Sands for City Hall Mall via MRT at around 5PM. We strolled around City Hall Mall and met our Singaporean-blogger-friend, Mag with her friend, Angie. I asked her recommendations for dinner and we all opted to try the offerings at The Hand Burger. Everything looked nice and tasted OK too except the Chicken Cajun Cordon Bleu which Gabby and I ordered was surprisingly spicy; our boy’s taste buds were too young for such.

*The last four photos without watermarks are posted with permission from its author, Mag, the awesome blogger of fashion, food and funfinds @ www.modgam.com. Thanks, Mag and thank you for the dinner and coffee treat!

Meet the wonderful blogger behind www.modgam.com, Mag, our Singaporean friend whom I consider the twin sister I never had because in so many ways, we think alike. Surprisingly to a new found friend, she was there when my family and I experienced one of our lowest. Behind those bubbly smiles, colorful locks and stylish outfits lies a true person with a heart of gold.

Mag came to meet us that Saturday night with her good old friend, Angie who’s extra pleasant too.

Thank you so much, Mag & Angie for taking time to meet and dine with us! We had so much fun!

We left City Hall Mall via MRT to Kranji and went back to Johor Bahru that evening. We reached our budget hotel and got to freshen up again before midnight. It was one of our longest days nonetheless, memorable. The following morning was spent in Legoland Malaysia, and on the evening of Sunday, we hopped on the bus at Larkin Station, slept on the bus again and wake up the next morning in Penang. Ahhh, it was still holiday. A Monday-holiday for us then!

Singapore, until we meet again!

Sep

OUR LEGOLAND MALAYSIA EXPERIENCE 2012

By docgelo 66 Comments

Categories: FAMILY : LOVE KO 'TO, FOOD & MORE FOOD!, ILOVEPHOTOS, MALAYSIA and TRAVEL
Tags: amusement park, billund band, billund band denmark, blogger with family, coco the magic clown, disneyland in anaheim, doc gelo, docgelo, expat blogger, family, family day out, family fun, food, food blog, food blogger, food in legoland malaysia, foodie, genting highlands, johor bahru, kelly tarlton's antarctic encounter and underwater world, kuala lumpur, legiland denmark, lego, Legoland, Legoland Malaysia, lifestyle blogger, malaysia and singapore, market restaurant legoland malaysia, miniland, miniland in legoland, munchy's captain munch cookies, overseas blogger, philippines in legoland malaysia, the big shop, the big shop legoland malaysia, theme park, things you need to know about legoland malaysia, tickets legoland malaysia, tokyo disneyland, tokyo disneysea, tourism malaysia, tourism singapore, travel blogger, travel tips to legoland malaysia, travel tips to malaysia, traveling, travelling, universal studios in la, universal studios singapore

*This is another Beyond Toxicity’s long and photo-heavy blog post. Tips to visitors and tourists as well as suggestions to Legoland Malaysia’s officials are included in this entry. Enjoy!

Of all the amusement and theme parks I’ve been to, Legoland Malaysia is the most colorful! Nothing compares to its vibrant bricks that directly inspire everyone’s imagination and creativity to build, build and build. I’ve been to some remarkable theme parks around the globe like Sea World in San Diego, Disneyland in Anaheim, Universal Studios in Los Angeles, California, Universal Studios Singapore, Tokyo Disneyland, Tokyo DisneySea, Tokyo Sea Life Park, Hong Kong Disneyland, Ocean Park in Hong Kong, Kelly Tarlton’s Antarctic Encounter Underwater World in Auckland, New Zealand, Genting Highlands and Aquaria in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, even our very own Enchanted Kingdom, Manila Ocean Park, Star City and Nayong Pilipino back home, thus, I have grown a personal appreciation and somehow I have defined my own standard. In so many ways, going to these kiddie places has been incredibly memorable when I became a family man and started sharing the wonderful experiences with my wife, Tina and our son, Gabby.

Like most kids, I grew up playing Lego. And now that our son’s into Lego too, experiencing the theme park made entirely of these timeless bricks was beyond fantastic! I remember, Tina and I first saw Legoland Denmark on TV via The Amazing Race. Never did we imagine that we would enjoy the same Legoland here in Malaysia so soon! It was surreal actually!

THE INSIDE STORY

I am grateful to Legoland Malaysia for inviting me twice to their media events that I failed to attend to due to some reasons. If you must know, my name was included in the list of bloggers and media who were exclusively invited to Legoland Malaysia’s Media and Family event last September 1st; that’s 2 weeks before the park opened to the public officially. Then recently, they threw another event last September 14, 2012 and during its opening last September 15, 2012, but I was only able to bring my feet and my family to Nusajaya, Johor Bahru where the very first Legoland in Asia and the 6th in the world is raised, last Sunday, September 16, 2012.

The Public Relations people who invited me on Legoland Malaysia’s behalf were gracious enough to still offer me via email a complimentary pass to the theme park for my personal review and blog feature. We only had to pay for Tina’s admission fee of RM140 (US$ 45+) and Gabby’s was waived because he was so fortunate and clever to spot a promosi on Munchy’s Captain Munch chocolate cookies at a popular grocery in Penang a few weeks back.

DIRECTIONS WHERE TO GO ARE ALWAYS ESSENTIAL

I tried to reserve a Deluxe Room via email recommended by the PR people of Legoland Malaysia however, it was too late because most hotels were full due to the anticipated opening of this theme park. I ended up booking a budget hotel that wasn’t bad at all; I did it few minutes before we left our apartment in Penang to head to Johor Bahru.

From our budget hotel in Johor Bahru, we were brought to Legoland Malaysia by a blue taxi cab that we hired for the day for RM 100 (US$ 32+). Good thing that the local driver’s already familiar with the roads because we noticed flags of Legoland Malaysia were only visible a few kilometers from the park itself. I highly suggest for Legoland Malaysia’s officials to put more directional signs like flags long before the Coastal Highway; better put signages at Larkin and Kota Raya bus stations, Singapore-Malaysia exit and entry points and install brochures with map in hotels because not all drivers, visitors and tourists have GPS. We’re just so fortunate to meet the taxi driver who picked us up from the hotel before 8AM and after 20 minutes or so, my family and I arrived at the ticket counters of Legoland Malaysia. We’re too punctual for the park’s opening at 10AM.

Another thing that could guide patrons of Legoland Malaysia is installation of signages of where to queue to buy and/or collect tickets at the gate. Expectedly, signs should be put at the vast parking lot, drop off points and the main entrance to the park. It’s always comforting to see signages that say, “This way, please!” My family and I were second in line but to our disappointment there was no sign that could have directed us to go to the 2 counters after Counter 14; those were the only 2 ticket counters assigned to issue Day Passes/Tickets as Counter 1 to 14 served only those who availed of Annual Passes. There’s a single flat screen TV monitor that showed what counter to go to but it was only turned on few minutes before 10AM where people were already on the wrong queue. Also, there were no labels of queues, just digital ticket counter numbers.

Toilet signs are in Malay, with no English or Mandarin translations.

Signs, signs and more signages please! We, the guests and visitors of Legoland Malaysia deserve to be informed.

What nearly spoiled my day was when I learned that my complimentary pass wasn’t endorsed properly by the PR people to the ticketing office. I could have easily paid for my admission fee but I was promised via email of a free entrance. There was neither media ID nor media pass/ticket provided. I believe it was a non-communication on the part of the PR and the ticketing office of Legoland Malaysia. Some important things have to be organized here. Nonetheless, I have to admit that a certain Legoland Malaysia staff named Fara was so caring, generous and apologetic enough to attend to my concern and escorted us to the gates of the park sans waiting on queue. THANK YOU!

Soon after we entered the park, we felt we stepped into one of a childhood’s dreams! The moment was euphoric!

GASTRONOMIC TREATS IN LEGOLAND MALAYSIA

I know. One doesn’t go to a theme park to engage in a digestive feast or simply to sample their culinary offerings but then again, no one can deny the fact that enjoyment is incomplete when the stomach is half-content, worse, empty. Fret not for my family and I proved that Legoland Malaysia is more than meets the eye! This newest theme park in Asia can also satisfy the appetite and the usual cravings with the variety of food and beverage choices they have.

Before you further escalate your excitement to know how Legoland Malaysia looks like, allow this blog to be different from the others that already featured Legoland Malaysia. I’m highlighting one of human necessities first prior visual pleasure. After all, this blog is all about giving reverence to my family, FOOD & fun! Behold, a shameless rundown of what filled our tummies the entire Sunday when we were there…

We had brunch at Market Restaurant. The space was noteworthy, just like the wide array of delicious dishes available. Combo meals of a Half Roasted Chicken with either Barbecue or Black Pepper Sauce come with soda and mushroom soup cost around RM 23 (US$ 7.50+). The servings were huge to meet my big appetite, tasteful too!

Tina had that British classic, Fish and Chips…

While Gabby enjoyed the pasta that I topped with parmesan cheese generously and a large cup of Strawberry Smoothies (RM 10 or US$ 3.27). He doesn’t like beef balls that much, so his parents came in to the rescue

There were a lot more choices plus desserts like cakes available in slices too, however we can only consume as much.

The not-so-light-afternoon snacks that we savored for hours inside that thank-goodness-airconditioned-restaurant consisted of Beef Lasagna, cups of Cappuccino, Oreo cupcake that’s to die for! Chocolate cupcake, Apple and Cinnamon pie and Turkey Sandwich in Focaccia bread and Hot Chocolate. Can you guess who-had-what? Anyway, it was all glorious!

We only ate at The Market Restaurant and The Cafe; these are two of Legoland Malaysia’s restaurants inside the park; there are others like Pizza Mania where pizza, pasta, soups and desserts are on the menu and the ones outside the gates like KFC and others. We’re happy to know that Legoland Malaysia offers international cuisine! People who aspire to be global should take note.

HYGIENE AND SANITATION : DEFINITELY A PRIORITY

Apparently, it’s not enough that food looks enticing and tasteful. Legoland Malaysia, like other theme parks around should also maintain hygiene and sanitation particularly in food handling. Flies and other insects should be kept away and controlled at all times. We appreciate that the plates we had in Legoland Malaysia were prepared and served satisfactorily.

SOUVENIRS, SOUVENIRS, SOUVENIRS!!!

After we gained entrance to Legoland Malaysia, Gabby got hold of the map from the gate and we wasted no time; we all trooped to the very first gift shop.

Look what Gabby, Tina and I came up with mix-and-matching Lego parts…

Our very first souvenirs were a Gentleman, an Indian and a Punk! Gabby, Tina and I were delighted!

Legoland Malaysia’s 76 acre-park has 7 themed areas with more than 40 interactive rides, shows and attractions. The 7 themed areas are The Beginning, Lego City, MiniLand, Land of Adventure, Imagination, Lego Kingdom and Lego Technic.

THE BEGINNING

Next stop : another Legoland Malaysia gift shop, The Big Shop that houses the largest selection of LEGO products in Asia!

Did I tell you already how Gabby’s so into Lego Ninjago? He watches the animated series and gradually collects Lego Ninjago items.

Obviously, the boy had his time inside The Big Shop…

Whenever we travel, we usually buy fridge magnets but most of them come in sets of RM 54+ in Legoland Malaysia; we didn’t see anything sold per piece so we settled for second best handy and more affordable souvenir, keychains! They’re sold at RM19+ a piece. Here are some of the cutest and irresistible choices…

There were stuff toys too..

and those fridge magnets…

As we are both fans of the movie series, Pirates of the Caribbean, Tina bought one of these Jack Sparrow key chains…

While I failed to resist something that will remind me of Harry Potter series and perhaps would keep me sane on a daily basis, Rubeus Hagrid keychain, FTW!

There goes our very own happy little shopper!

LET’S EXPLORE LEGOLAND MALAYSIA NOW!

But wait, the sun was so unforgiving! Johor Bahru has the greatest blessing of sunshiny weather making a day in Legoland Malaysia impossible to endure without SPF lotion and sun protectors. Believe me, they’re so necessary! We came in ready with cotton long sleeved shirts, sunnies and fedora hats; better if you have umbrellas but best if Legoland Malaysia could provide more shades for their visitors. Because the heat of the sun was almost unbearable, we wished for Legoland to be an indoor park but of course it’s pointless and futile. What is more practical is to suggest to its management to build more brick-inspired shades and improve more their airconditioning units! They could plant more tall trees too! Because it was really, really hot, we had to go inside the restaurants and some airconditioned attractions in between the stroll around the park. And like most popular kiddie theme parks, Tina and I hope for Legoland Malaysia to provide FREE potable and filtered drinking water fountains that would keep people from being dehydrated. More rubbish bins and toilets too, we wish. Boleh?

We went inside an open-air-theater and watched a comedy skit that left lessons to the young and old audience about awareness of common dangerous materials found in the house. I just didn’t get it why it had to start with graceful acrobatic act; to perk up the audience, perhaps?

LEGO CITY

Finally, we explored this park. Of course, there’s Lego creation everywhere!

I think it’s only in Legoland that minors are allowed to drive! Cool!!!

Archive for the 'FAMILY : LOVE KO ‘TO' Category

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