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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

WEEKLY PHOTO CHALLENGE : CURVES

By docgelo 5 Comments

Categories: ILOVEPHOTOS and MALAYSIA
Tags: doc gelo, docgelo, george town penang malaysia, must see in malaysia, must visit in penang, penang malaysia, pinang peranakan mansion, postaday, weekly photo challenge

Details of a lovely corner in Pinang Peranakan Mansion. My blog posts with tons of photos of that UNESCO Heritage Site, HERE and HERE!

See other entries to Weekly Photo Challenge with this week’s theme, Curves, HERE!

Jun

FEATURED ON EXPAT GO MALAYSIA

By docgelo 6 Comments

Categories: HEADLINES and MALAYSIA
Tags: award winning blog, award winning blogger, doc gelo, docgelo, expat blog, expat blog in malaysia, expat go malaysia, feature, filipino abroad, filipino blogger, life of filipino abroad, lifestyle, ofw, proud filipino

This blog is featured on an article written by Samuel Medley with title, “5 Expat Blogs About Malaysia You Should Read” on Expat Go Malaysia. Thank you very much! The entire article is found here : http://www.expatgomalaysia.com/article/1209/5-expat-blogs-about-malaysia-you-should-read

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

I MUSICI DI ROMA AT THE OPENING OF GEORGE TOWN FESTIVAL 2013

By docgelo 1 Comment

Antonio Anselmi, violin, I Musici Di Roma, being interviewed by a Penangite journalist at the backstage of Dewan Sri Pinang.

“Penang is the cultural capital of Malaysia…” these words were proudly spoken by the honorable Chief Minister of the State of Penang, Lim Guan Eng on stage of Dewan Sri Pinang, prior to the spectacular performances of Italy’s legendary string ensemble, I Musici Di Roma, that graced the opening night of George Town Festival 2013. I cannot agree more. Although I have only been working as a Medical Lecturer in Penang for 3 years and have only set foot to a few states of Malaysia, I and my family have witnessed how diversities in cultures, arts, music and tradition, not to forget, food have been constantly celebrated and promoted in this island.

The people of Penang are fortunate to have their own uniquely beautiful heritage and even more blessed to being exposed to the best of the world. Hats off to the efforts exerted by the men and women behind George Town Festival 2013, particularly Joe Sidek who has been religious in bringing culture and the arts accessible to Penangites and to the rest of the people of Penang, including us, expatriates and foreign workers.

Genius! The hands and violin of I Musici Di Roma leader, Antonio Anselmi, backstage Dewan Sri Pinang

07 June 2013, Friday, George Town, Penang. The annual and month-long celebration of the inscription of George Town, Penang as one of UNESCO’s World Heritage Sites officially kicked off with a grand opening night! Before the incredibly memorable musical concert of I Musici, there was the launch of Secret Gardens of Earthly Delights that features the larger than life, bamboo sculture of Indonesian artist, Joko Avianto called, Theatre of Ships (that this blog will feature on succeeding posts) and Fireflies at River Lalang, held at the Town Hall.

Before 8:30PM, everyone was led to Diwan Sri Pinang for the much anticipated musical concert of one of the world’s greatest performers, I Musici. The renowed musicians from Italy were honored with Brand Laureate Award by YAB CM of Penang and a precious memento of a literally framed gold CD was presented to TYT Governor of Penang. Those moments made the prelude to the concert lovelier.

I consider myself lucky to be part of the audience as one of the media men to cover the event, even more privileged to be escorted to a quick photo opportunity with THE I MUSICI backstage few minutes before they went on stage.

Here are the photos I took as the Italian genius musician, Antonio Anselmi was being interviewed by a Penangite journalist….

Antonio Anselmi, violin, being interviewed at Dewan Sri Pinang, George Town, Penang, Malaysia

Roberto Gambioli, contrabbasso, backstage, Dewan Sri Pinang, George Town, Penang, Malaysia

I MUSICI has been existing since their successful public debut in 1952 when they started the group’s astonishing career at the Accademia di Santa Cecilia in Roma. They have toured the world at most famous international festivals and played intense concert activities in prestigious theaters and concert halls such as the Spring Festival in Budapest, the Carnegie Hall and Lincoln Centre in New York, the Symphony Hall, the Philharomonie in Berlin and many more. The 12-men-cast includes :

Antonio Anselmi, violin
Pasquale Pellegrino, violin
Gianluca Apostoli, violin
Francesa Vicari, violin
Marco Serino, violin
Ettore Pellegrino, violin
Silvio Di Rocco, viola
Francesco Buccarella, hapsichord and piano
Roberto Gambioli, bass
Vito Paternoster, cello
Massimo Paris, viola
Pietro Bosna, cello

Their stunning performance in Diwan Sri Pinang for GTF2013 included Italian classical pieces :

Giocchino Rossini’s Ouverture from the Barber from Seville (transcription for strings by V. Gambaro)
Niccolo Paganini’s Variations on the IV string on a theme from Mose in Egypt by G. Rossini
Guiseppe Verdi’s Traviata – Preludio Atto
Gioacchino Rossini’s Une Larme for cello and strings
Pietro Mascagni’s Intermezzo da Cavalleria Rusticana
Giuseppe Verdi’s Sinfonia from II Nabucco AND
Antonio Vivaldi’s The Four Seasons performed passionately by Antonio Anselmi with I Musici

Pietro Bosna (center), cello, after his incredible rendition of Une Larme for cello & strings by Gioacchino Rossini

Intervallo. During 15-minute-interval.

THE brain and the smile behind Penang’s George Town Festival, Joe Sidek.

My most favorite part of the show was Antonio Anselmi’s passionate performance of Antonio Vivaldi’s classic, The Four Seasons. It was beyond auditory feast!

I am in awe with talents and abilities to make extraordinary things look easy. I Musici performed beyond my greatest expectations. They redefined culture to me and reintroduced my pair of vestibulocochlear nerves to the classical Italian music appreciation. Their elegant, dynamic, whimsical, powerful and dramatic musical performance on stage of Diwan Sri Pinang was a fitting welcome to usher everyone to this year’s George Town Festival. Bravo, I Musici! Bravo, GTF2013!

>><<

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

Know more of I Musici Di Roma on their website : imusicidiroma.com

*Photos on this blog post were taken before and after the performance of I Musici

*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

FROM MANILA TO MALAYSIA

By docgelo 4 Comments

Categories: EVENTS, HEADLINES, MALAYSIA and TRAVEL
Tags: asia, doc gelo, docgelo, george town festival, george town festival 2013, george town penang, ivan man dy, old manila walks, TRAVEL, walking tour of penang, what to see in penang malaysia, where to go in penang

From Manila to Malaysia!

Culture, architecture and traditional multi-ethnic dining in Georgetown, Penang, Malaysia

July 4-8, 2013

We’re in love with this northern city in Penang Island, Malaysia and we like it so much that we are sharing what we love about this place to you.

Old Manila Walks together with our travel partner Global Holidays and travel guru IvanHenares brings to you our favorites in the UNESCO World Heritage city of Georgetown and of course food! Best of all, our visit is timed on the weekend of the Georgetown Festival when the city’s multi-ethnic communities- Chinese, Malay, Indian, Peranakan and more come out in full force to celebrate Penang’s multicultural mix through the arts and performances. It’s one big cultural fiesta! Join us as we immerse ourselves and eat our way to Malaysia’s Pearl of the Orient!

Rate: USD$435.00/head (based on twin-sharing). Single supplement available (extra)

Inclusions: Transport within Geogetown, Guided Tour, Site Entrances , (select) Meals,

Others/Extra : Book your own flight

July 4, 2013 (Thursday) 06:25-09:50 MNL to SIN via Cebu Pacific 5J801 (optional)

15:05-16:35 SIN to PEN via Jetstar 3K675 (required)

July 7, 2013 (Sunday) 17:15 – 18:40 SIN to PEN via Jetstar 3K676

July 8, 2013 (Monday) 00:40-04:05 SIN – MNL via Cebu Pacific 5J804

Detailed IT upon request

Step by step,

Ivan Man Dy
Old Manila Walks | email : fun@oldmanilawalks.com | www.oldmanilawalks.com

“Your First Step to Knowing Manila!” Join Old Manila Walks’ community at Facebook, be a fan!

(Read: I’m one of their biggest fans!)

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

May

SUNDOWN OVER PULAU PINANG

By docgelo 18 Comments

Categories: ILOVEPHOTOS and MALAYSIA
Tags: amateur photography, doc gelo, docgelo, dusk, george town penang, nikon D7000, penang malaysia, photography, sky watch, southeast asia, sundown, sunset

April 15, 2013, Monday, 7:40PM.

April 18, 2013, Thursday, 7:50PM.

April 19, 2013, Friday, 7:40PM.

April 22, 2013, Monday, 7:30PM.

April 25, 2013, Thursday, 7:42PM.

April 26, 2013, Friday, 7:40PM.

April 26, 2013, Friday, 7:53PM.

April 28, 2013, Sunday, 7:42PM.

May 3, 2013, Friday, 7:41PM.

May 4, 2013, Saturday, 7:09PM.

May 7, 2013, Tuesday, 7:33PM.

May 9, 2013, Thursday, 7:43PM.

May 10, 2013, Friday, 7:48PM.

May 13, 2013, Monday, 7:35PM.

May 14, 2013, Tuesday, 7:30PM.

*Viewed from our apartment’s balcony and living room. They also reflect my current state of mind.

May

COUNTING BLESSINGS ON MY 6TH BLOGGING YEAR

By docgelo 37 Comments

08 May 2013. Wednesday.

Beyond Toxicity @ docgelo.com officially turns 6 years old today!

*applause! applause! bow!*

I’m not throwing any blog contest or giveaways but simply celebrating it with sincerest gratitude to my few loyal readers particularly those who have been writing comments on my posts through the years unconditionally.

Thank you very much! Maraming salamat po! Terima Kasih! Xie xie!

Ushering this blog’s 7th year is a list of exciting BLESSINGS this May 2013 and more pleasant ones to come!

*drum roll, please!*

Nomination in the 2013 Singapore Blog Awards in 4 blog categories (Best Lifestyle Blog, Best Individual Blog, Best Family Blog & Best Travel Blog). Thank you very much! List of finalists to be announced in mid-June. Awarding ceremony on July 6, 2013. At stake along with recognition, prizes and freebies is a fully sponsored trip to Northern Territories, Australia! I want to win! I want to win!!! However, as 30 % of the judging criteria will be coming from public votes, will you support and vote for my blog if and when it gets in the finalists’ list? *crossed fingers*

Nomination in 2013 Tatt Awards, Globe Tattoo, Philippines (Best Photo Blog or Microblog). List of finalists to be announced mid-June. At stake is recognition and PhP 50,000 cash prize for the Regular Blog Category. Just like in 2013 Singapore Blog Awards, I’m very thankful for the nomination and I’m hoping for the best to be in the finalists’ roll. Once in, your votes will be needed for this blog to win. I want to win! I want to win!!! But if it’s not for me, I’ll still take pride in being nominated this year. To God be the Glory!

Invitation for Tina, Gabby and I to a sponsored 3D2N accomodation at one of the five 123sqm-Corner Suites at the newest Victory Annexe Wing of the luxury-5-star-hotel, E&O Hotel Penang for hotel review and blog feature, May 2013

Invitation for Tina, Gabby and I to a sponsored dinner at 1885 fine dining restaurant in E&O Hotel Penang for restaurant review & blog feature, May 2013

Invitation for Tina, Gabby and I to a sponsored 3D2N accomodation in Hotel Ibis Singapore on Bencoolen, Singaprore, May 2013

Invitation for Tina, Gabby and I to a sponsored 2 day-access to theme parks of choice by iVenture Card, Singapore, May 2013

Last year, one of my photos landed on the pages of Postcards on Lonely Planet Asia magazine…

And for this year, the Associate Editor of Lonely Planet Asia emailed me recently that one of my photos of the Long Neck Women from Padaung Tribe in Myanmar who are currently refugees in Chiang Mai (blog post HERE!) will grace one of the Postcard pages of Lonely Planet Asia on its July/August issue. Big deal enough for the non-pro/amateur photo-enthusiast in me!

And of course, I am still euphoric for winning the 2013 and 2012 Best Expat Blog Award from Ministry of Tourism Malaysia and all that happened concerning this blog last year (blog post HERE!)

Thank you so much to those people who are happy when we are happy!

My greatest appreciation goes out to those who nominated this site to those blog awards, to our few but very generous sponsors, to those who tirelessly recommend me and my family to our sponsors and of course, to those who continously express love and support, I cannot thank you enough. God bless all of us more! Mabuhay po kayo! Maraming salamat!

May

WEEKLY PHOTO CHALLENGE : FROM ABOVE

By docgelo 30 Comments

Categories: FOOD & MORE FOOD!, ILOVEPHOTOS and MALAYSIA
Tags: doc gelo, docgelo, expatriate in malaysia, family, filipinos in malaysia, food, food blog, Life, lifestyle, lifestyle blog, lunch, photography, postaday, weekly photo challenge from above

*Our simple yet hearty lunch the past weekend, prepared, cooked & taken by my lovely wife, Tina.

This is my entry to : Weekly Photo Challenge : From Above

Apr

AN EVENING OF LIGHTS AT KHOO KONGSI

By docgelo 13 Comments

*Ornate details of the Prayer Pavilion, Khoo Kongsi

27 April 2013. Saturday. While most people in Penang were probably watching Iron Man 3 in cinemas or perhaps, resting at home after an entire work or school week and a whole day’s household chores as in the case of my wife and our kid, I left our place at around 5PM, hopped on the bus, took the 15 minute ferry ride from Butterworth to George Town and rode another bus to Lebuh Chulia, then strolled my way to Cannon Street with nothing in mind but to revisit one of the incredibly majestic clan houses in Penang, the Khoo Kongsi.

Yes, I’ve been to Khoo Kongsi before and I’ve blogged it a few times already but I’ve never experienced the “Evening of Lights At Khoo Kongsi” celebrated every last Saturday of the month at 7PM. It is when the entire Prayer Pavilion of Khoo Kongsi beams and shines against the royal blue sky!

Since I still have prepaid Rapid-Penang-Bus unlimited-ride-card for the month of April, and the usual admission rate of 10 ringgit (USD 3.30) to Khoo Kongsi was waived during this event, I only spent 1.20 ringgit (USD 0.40) on the roundtrip ferry ride and 13.50 ringgit (USD 4.45) for a personal favorite Indian plate with Mango Lassi from Restoran Kapitan at Little India.

*Chicken Tandoori Set at RM10 (served with Cheese Naan) washed down with Mango Lassi, RM3.50. Dinner solb!

The gates of Khoo Kongsi located at Cannon Street were guarded and only opened at 7PM. After grabbing some bites at Restoran Kapitan, I went back to this famous clan house and simply waited for moments when everyone’s done with their obligatory photo-ops with the gorgeous Prayer Pavilion as their backdrop. I was lucky to have a chance to capture the beauty of the Prayer Pavilion of Khoo Kongsi with less tourists and visitors as people began to flock after I left the area.

*Once again, I marveled at the grandiosity of Khoo Kongsi with all elegance from Fujian architecture.

“From the late 18th century to 1850, the Khoos migrated from Sin Kang Village in China to Penang and involved themselves in trades and other careers. They formed a closely-knit community, took care of each other and gathered on the 5th day of the 5th Moon every year to celebrate the birthday of Tua Sai Yah. In 1835, they founded the Ee Kok Tong as an early form of clan association. The basement of Leong San Tong has been converted into the Leong San Tong Khoo Kongsi Museum.” sourced from www.khookongsi.com.my

Who would not be in awe with this excellent Oriental structure built from exquisite craftmanship in woodcarving, stone carving, coloured drawing, stucco sculpture, cut-and-paste decoration and tiled roof?

The Prayer Pavilion faces a courtyard intended for gatherings then and now, and a huge stage built for Opera and other performances. And for this weekend’s event, Chinese drums were installed that provided the beat and accompanied the traditional lion dances.

This is how big the Khoo Kongsi compound is!

I was silently jumping for joy when the blue hour (at around 7:30-7:50PM here in Penang) came! Happy to capture photos of Khoo Kongsi during this time despite the lack of tripod.

Good thing the lion dance performers and “prosperity mascots” with the drummers and cymbals on stage deviated the attention of the people from the Prayer Pavilion; I had a few minutes of camera clicks without tourists and other photographers around it.

This monthly Evening of Lights At Khoo Kongsi was supposed to end at around 10PM with other entertainers to performs but I left the place at around 8PM. En route back to Chulia Street, I failed to resist and captured a couple more photos of the corner of Cannon and Armenian Streets…

plus that iconic landmark in George Town which is a Muslim worship place, the Kapitan Keling Mosque…

Over all, I enjoyed my Saturday evening and considered it a blessing that eased out my stress from work. Engaging in activities and sights like this is a welcome respite from my almost routinary life at my desk in the Faculty Room and in the classrooms.

*How did you spend your weekend?

*More photos on my earlier blog post about Khoo Kongsi –> HERE!

Apr

WEEKLY PHOTO CHALLENGE : CULTURE

By docgelo 37 Comments

I could have posted other photos for this week’s theme but this one remains a favorite among my captures! I took this snapshot of an innocent Indian-Malaysian performer in 2011 Chinese New Year Festival in one of the cultural melting pots in Southeast Asia and UNESCO’s World Heritage Site, George Town, Penang, Malaysia.

At present, I’m taking a chance in International Photo Awards with this portrait boasting of rich colors as my entry under Non-Pro, People Category. Win or lose in that prestigious competition, I take pride being a mortal amateur participant! What do you think?

This is also my entry in Weekly Photo Challenge : Culture

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

WEEKLY PHOTO CHALLENGE : UP

By docgelo 25 Comments

Categories: ILOVEPHOTOS, MALAYSIA and TRAVEL
Tags: doc gelo, docgelo, jonker street, malacca, malacca malaysia, malaysia tourism, melaka, photography, TRAVEL, traveling, where to go in southeast asia

*Eye-catching, isn’t it?

Erected in the middle of Jonker Street, Malacca, Malaysia is the giant replica of ship used by great Chinese explorer and sailor, Admiral Zheng He. It measures 30 meters in length and 23 meters in height, weighing nearly two-tons, hoisted at the entrance of the famous touristy spot, Jonker Walk for the Chinese New Year celebration.

This is my entry to Weekly Photo Challenge : Up

*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! 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

I WILL NEVER FORGET YOU, PENANG ASSAM LAKSA!

By docgelo 16 Comments

“Anthony Bourdain : No Reservations : Penang” episode was tremendously compelling that watching its replay on cable TV made me decide to revisit Air Itam, an almost 30-minute bus ride from the island’s capital, George Town to finally experience the version of Penang Assam Laksa that most Penangites, if not all, and other local and foreign tourists have been raving about.

If you must know, my taste buds aren’t virgin to its flavor anymore as I got to try a bowl of it from one of Malaysia’s local restaurants several months ago, however found it of course, commercialized (blog post HERE!).

Blame my faith on Bourdain’s culinary and travel expertise, I didn’t need to drag my feet from our current place in Butterworth, rode the Rapid Penang Bus for 5 minutes to Jetty in Penang Sentral, took the ferry for 12 minutes sans waiting, and hopped on Rapid Penang Bus 203 to Pasar Air Itam (Air Itam Market) all for only RM1.20 (ferry roundtrip fare as I prepurchased unlimited Rapid Penang Bus card good for a month). With almost an hour and a half of travel time, coupled with flashbacks of what my family and I watched on TV, my craving heightened. I even thought it’s a shame for someone like me who have been given a chance to work and live in Malaysia’s food capital for almost 3 years now, not to taste Pasar Air Itam’s Assam Laksa. Good thing the weather and the flow of traffic conspired.

Apparently, the secret of this version of Penang Assam Laksa is in the richly flavored and thick fish broth with fish flakes that appeared to have been boiling for days already. For few minutes, I observed the main man wearing toque, preparing each bowl of laksa upon order. His assistant puts thick rice noodles and ingredients - mint leaves, shallots, chillies, cucumber and perhaps a few more on each bowl of thick rice noodles and hands in to him. Then the man in toque would scoop a piping hot fish broth onto the bowl and pour it back to the boiling broth and repeats the process simply to make sure the noodles and everything on the bowl become warm and flavored. After which, the assist will top the bowl with thick assam sauce (tamarind sauce).

If my perceptions are correct, the secrets to this famous laksa are on its fish broth and tamarind sauce. It’s hard to duplicate it at home when you don’t have the same cookwares that seemed boiling for days and of course, the formula and herbs that the owners keep to themselves.

I wanted to ask them about their laksa but I held back after I saw them very busy tending to all orders, dine-in and takeaways that seemed endless.

Here’s my bowl of Penang Assam Laksa from Pasar Air Itam…

My verdict : With its 4 ringgit per bowl price, everything’s worth it! The sour tamarind sauce, the salty and thick fish stock blended so well with chillies and the herbs and noodles and everything on it! Thankfully, I had the chance to understand the logic of CNN in naming Penang Assam Laksa as 7th out of 50 Most Delicious Foods in the World! It was indeed, delicious!

WHY WAS MY PENANG ASSAM LAKSA EXPERIENCE AT PASAR AIR ITAM UNFORGETTABLE?

Because a fraction of left-over soup of Laksa was accidentally spilled by the “uncle”-waiter on my black T-shirt, making the back of my left upper shoulder down to my left flank smelled like Assam Laksa! Unbelievable! But I even smiled at the old man despite he didn’t apologize, as mentioned, it was an accident. He had the effort of wiping it with his rag (yikes!) but few seconds after, he left me with some fish flakes and mint leaves still on my shirt. He moved to the other tables cleaning and preparing them for the next groups of diners.

PENANGITES ARE HELPFUL

Luckily, the heaven sent angels to ease my Assam Laksa experience. Because I was alone (as Tina and Gabby chose to rest at home over the weekend), I shared my table to other diners. A Chinese-Malaysian couple came to my table with their two very young sons (I’m guessing ages 3-4 years old) and their nanny. The husband, Mr. Chong immediately offered me sheets of tissue to wipe the back of my shirt. Then his pretty wife brought out wet ones that they suggested for me to use instead of tissue. The scene became more awkward but I’m grateful for their generosity, when Mr. Chong volunteered to wipe my shirt for me since I cannot extend my hands to clean everything out. It didn’t stop there, these kind-heartened Penangites ordered a refreshing bowl of lychee for me! How’s that? Even though it’s only 3 ringgit per bowl, I was very pleased and grateful for the moment!

After finishing my Assam Laksa and that bowl of lychee that I got for free, I walked few steps and saw a public and surprisingly cleaned toilet where I continued to wipe and clean my shirt. I rode the bus back to Komtar and Prangin Mall in George Town and bought a new cheap shirt that I wore back home. Imagine the shirt that stinks because it has herbed fish stock and tamarind minty sauce on it! Aromatic!!! lol

I wish my family and I could find chance to revisit Kek Lok Si Buddhist Temple which is located a meters away from this stall in Air Itam Market that sells Assam Laksa. I would like to know if Tina and Gabby will like it too. I didn’t buy them takeaways because Tina asked me to shop for some groceries after; would not be easy for me to bring it inside the store.

Oh yes, my route from Butterworth to George Town to Air Itam looks like this except that I commuted via buses and ferry bypassing Penang Bridge. The things you do to satisfy a craving! :)

via www.maps.google.com

I wouldn’t mind going back to Air Itam from our current place in Butterworth for that heaping bowl of one of the most delicious foods in the world!

>><<

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

PENANG’S NYONYA CUISINE FROM PEARLY KEE

By docgelo 23 Comments

One of my Saturday dinner plates prepared by Ms. Pearly Kee. Yes, that’s blue rice on my plate.

“Peranakan or Nonya cuisine combines Chinese, Malay and other influences into a unique blend.

Peranakans are descendants of early Chinese migrants who settled in Penang, Malacca, Indonesia and Singapore, inter-marrying with local Malays. The old Malay word nonya (also spelled nyonya), a term of respect and affection for women of prominent social standing (part “madame” and part “auntie”), has come to refer to the cuisine of the Perakanans.” via Wiki

As a Filipino living and working in Penang for almost three years now, I always feel privileged and pleased whenever my family and I are invited and welcomed by Malaysian friends to spend memorable moments with them. It’s priceless when local people make us feel at ease, more so, when they offer and share something about their own culture, tradition and lifestyle.

Last Saturday, 6th April 2013, in her very own abode tucked in a quiet corner of Pulau Tikus, Ms. Pearly Kee greeted us with warmest smile, together with her equally admirable husband, Mr. Chandra who voluntarily picked us up and drove us back to the bus station near their place. Generosity, although rarity nowadays, is always appreciated!

Tina, Gabby and I were invited by Ms. Pearly via email several weeks ago to partake in the Nyonya Dinner at her humble home where she also conducts Penang Nyonya Cooking Classes. Despite the almost entire-day-of-non-stop-raining which is a bit unusual in Penang and in spite of the fact that my lovely wife failed to join us for some weekend chores and other things to be done at our own apartment, Gabby and I managed to arrived few minutes over the 7:30PM call time and enjoyed what Aunty Pearly prepared that led our Filipino palates’ to an official introduction to Nyonya cuisine.

Gabby with Aunty Pearly Kee and husband, Uncle Chandra. Thank you for inviting us!

I read that Ms. Pearly learned her Nyonya cooking expertise from her grandmother and she’s actively passing it on to anyone interested in joining her culinary sessions. Famous and respected as one of Penang’s food ambassadors, we first met Ms. Pearly during one of her Penang Home Cooking classes when we visited Tropical Spice Garden (blog post Here!). She was even thoughtful to include the link of my blog post about Tropical Spice Garden when she sent her invitation to us. That was a nice gesture of her. Thank you, Ms. Pearly!

Here’s a rundown of the Nyonya dishes that Ms. Pearly Kee prepared for her guests.

Blue Rice : Aromatic, fascinating and uniquely flavorful as it looks!

If you must know, my family and I forgot to sample a similar Malaysian rice dish, Nasi Kerabu (blue rice) when we visited Kota Bharu in Kelantan back in 2011. Tina got to taste it recently when one of her colleagues in the clinic brought her a bungkus; she liked and craved for it after, even raving about it to me. Imagine my excitement when Gabby and I saw that Aunty Pearly included Blue Rice side by side with the common boiled white rice on her spread that evening. I was a happy man when I got a chance to taste it finally! Lucky me!

With its interesting color and aroma, this Blue Rice was made as such, according to Ms. Pearly, because of the use of the blue flower called Bunga Telang, which in English sounds cheeky, clitoria. Tee hee!

Sambal Goreng. I loved this, not only because I’m a sucker for prawns but this one’s textured, rich and delicious.

Prawns cooked in white sauce, cashews, lemon grass, tamarind and coconut cream served with chili sauce and cucumber, Sambal Goreng stimulated my palates so well. I loved, loved, loved it!

Kerabu Vegetable (Thai Influence). Another favorite from what we savored.

I have no word to explain why Gabby and I were not seduced by the soup in the spread, not because it didn’t look interesting to us, of course not, but probably there were a number of dishes on the spread to try that were all very new to us. One of them was the Kerabu Vegetable or Veggie Salad with Thai Influence.

What made this salad so fascinating? Ms. Pearly creatively used seromi, instead of the usual greens that are frequently tossed in commercially available salads. She even informed us during the friendly chat over dinner that she brings a volume of seromi that’s commonly grown near rice paddies in Penang, whenever she visits her friends in Singapore. She combined ~~seromi~~ Sayur Rumi or Pigwort Watercress with four angle beans or kacang botol, shallots and bunga kantan or torch ginger finely shredded with sweet thai sauce. The addition of pineapple tidbits also gave flare on this Kerabu Vegetable! It was so flavorful, I had to go back to the buffet spread for another serving!

Curry Kapitan. Surprisingly, not spicy. Just tasteful with a fascinating story behind its name. Ask Pearly!

Chicken cooked with lemon grass, fresh tumeric, galangal and fresh red chillies, Curry Kapitan is as wonderful as the story behind its name.

Surprisingly, Gabby, who as I mentioned as a little picky eater, liked Curry Kapitan. I wasn’t expecting my boy to favor it as we both thought that it’s hot and spicy with its red orange thick sauce but we were wrong. The chicken was perfectly cooked in a mildly spiced sauce. Tolerable flavor for our tastebuds. Gabby and I had two servings of this dish too! Need I say more?

Of all Nyonya dishes, I regret I forgot to sample this. We all need to be prosperous, right?

Ju Hu Char. Best eaten wrapped in leaves. I liked this too!

Ju hu char is a perfect appetizer made up of mixed stir-fried vegetables eaten with lettuce leaves and a bit of ‘sambal’ or chilli paste. I had two servings as well. Burp!

5 Spiced Pork Roll. Even the picky-eater in Gabby liked this!

Gabby and I also gave our thumbs-up to this pork rolls. It reminded me of our very own longganisa or our local sausages that have a lot of varieties in the Philippines. I only wished it tasted smoked and more garlicky but I guess it’s not its flavor. We liked it, nontheless.

Spices and more at Pearly’s kitchen cum cooking class area.

Who’s excited to sample Nyonya cakes and tropical fruits?

Jackfruit and Rose Apple also known as Jambu Air.

Nyonya Kuihs and Jackfruit Slices.

Dessert spread may be simple but also a must-try. Although it wasn’t my first time to try Nyonya Kuihs or Nyonya cakes in colorful slices, we didn’t pass it up. We had it with jackfruit slices which is one of our favorite fibrous fruits, and we washed down everything with a refreshing drink prepared by Ms. Pearly made of pineapples and passion fruits (grown in her lawn) garnished with strawberry slices (not in photo). It was so good, again I had two servings, err, glasses!

Yes, that’s Durian made into a sweetened dessert with tiny tapioca.

God knows my family and I are not fond of Durian as Malaysians and other Filipinos do; still Gabby and I tried to taste this Durian made into a sweet puree by Ms. Pearly. No force or coercion was done in tasting it, we did it freely, hehehe!

At this point, Gabby and I were already satiated and satisfied! Thank you, Ms. Pearly & Mr. Chandra!

The other guests of Ms. Pearly, both expatriates and local friends who made it that evening….

Ms. Pearly Kee and her invited guests in her home in Penang.

It was another family-food-fun occasion for us! Thank you, Ms. Pearly Kee for everything! It was a pleasure meeting one of the gems of Penang! Hope to see you again in the near future!

Articles from broadsheets, magazines & online are remarkable proofs that Pearly is loved and respected in Penang.

Get to know more of Ms. Pearly Kee and her Penang Home Cooking Classes via the following links :

Websites : Penang-Homecooking-Class via Packages of Penang Nyonya Cooking : My Island Penang.Com | Twitter : @PgHomecooking | Facebook : Pearly Homecooks and Pearly Kee on fb. You may also register HERE! and state your preferred date and number of guests.

Should you feel interested in contacting Ms. Pearly Kee, kindly give my regards to her & tell her you read about her and her expertise in Nyonya Cooking on this blog. Thank you!

>><<

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

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

SARKIES’ SEAFOOD BUFFET DINNER EXTRAVAGANZA @ EASTERN & ORIENTAL HOTEL, PENANG

By docgelo 8 Comments

*Allow me to begin this FOOD PORN blog post with a SPECIAL PROMOTIONAL DISCOUNT GIVEAWAY! Readers of this blog who are in Penang, Malaysia from March to April 2013 are entitled for a great deal at Sarkies’ Chef Petr’s Catch Seafood Buffet Dinner Extravaganza at Eastern & Oriental Hotel, Penang. All you need to do is to print this banner

and show this blog post’s URL :

(http://docgelo.com/2013/03/17/sarkies-seafood-buffet-dinner-extravaganza-eastern-oriental-hotel-penang/), then arrange an early reservation with E&O Hotel at contact #s +604-222 2000 ext 3601 | 3602 before 24th April 2013 and you can avail to dine in with a discounted rate of RM80 ++/pax (adult) and RM 38++/child.

Happening every Wednesdays until last week of April 2013, this offer from Sarkies is limited to first 80 people who will reserve for the dinner. One printout of the banner per one diner only. Terms & conditions apply.

I remember on my very first days after my arrival to work in Penang from the Philippines back in 2010, Eastern & Oriental Hotel, a luxury heritage-all-suite hotel in George Town was one of the very few spots in the island that I came to know about. Being one of the landmarks in Penang located by the glorious bay, I have been fascinated with its sophisticated and historic charm.

Fast forward to 3 years after of being an Overseas Filipino Worker in this side of Malaysia, it was truly a pleasure to be invited with my wife, Tina and our son, Gabby to Sarkies’ Chef Petr’s Catch Seafood Buffet Dinner Extravaganza last 13th March 2013, Wednesday. My family and I enjoyed not only the eat-all-you-want-seafood-and more from Sarkies but Tina & Gabby also took time to appreciate the elegance that defines E&O Hotel with me. We all had a grand time!

Of course, TEAM DOCGELO had a wonderful time capturing the moments on lens prior to the main event! Tee hee!

Now, let’s get down to business. Before you continue reading this post and scrolling down, you must know the drill. Be ready first with a tall glass of cold water and promise yourself not to drool, hehe! Here’s a rundown of this one of a kind dining experience offered at Sarkies at E&O. Feast your eyes! Enjoy!!!

The seafood appetizers were remarkable! My captures were probably incomplete from what’s on the spread but I’d like to showcase what I can recommend. I loved that delicately delicious salmon topped with caviar, thinly sliced scrambled eggs and fine green garnishing; my palates also admired those seafood canapes and those slices of freshest Norwegian salmon sashimi! The sashimi & sushi (yes, there’s a few sushi rolls too!) monster-in-me was so happy! There’s also that Duo of Gravlax that’s not to be missed from this buffet at Sarkies. Some people may find it a bit salty but that’s what gravlax is all about. There must be a tug-of-war between saltiness & sweetness on it. I liked it actually!

Imported & freshest seafoods galore! Alaskan Snow Crab Claws, Oyster on Ice, Poached Black Mussels that appeared to me as yin & yang as they’re put side-by-side with the more common mussels and there’s also Boiled River Cray Fish that I missed but Tina was able to sample. Other than what’s on my photos, there’s also Oyster Omelette, Marinated Cuttlefish, Seasoned Squid, Black Sesame Salad, Deep Fried Snow Crab Claws and a lot more.

Have I told you it’s not only seafood dishes that lorded the buffet spread? There’s actually something for everyone! If you fancy Roasted Duck (Yummy! check out my plates as you scroll down!), Chicken Satay, Beef and Lamb chops, a variety of seafoods to grill on the teppan, a few seafood like prawns and veggies cooked with sauces, a Noodle Station and more! You have to check it yourself if you have the chance.

Meanwhile, after you’ve taken a glance of some portions of the spread, here’s a shameless display of our delicious plates :

There may be some dishes that my family and I were expecting that weren’t there, like Baked Mussels (we want it buttery and cheesy), Buttered & Garlic Prawns, Lobster, Sweet and Sour Grouper and at least some local Malaysian dishes. Nonetheless we’re grateful and satisfied with everything! As a matter of fact, when I was asked by Criz who invited all of us for this event, I told him & the blogger-friends on our table that I almost forgot my name as I was very satiated!

While Tina was pleased at how the Lamb was roasted that perfectly complemented with its sauce, Gabby and I preferred the Beef from the Carving Station. Very tender and flavorful, Gabby and I had more than one servings each! The Roasted Duck was also commendable! It’s delicious too sans mushroom sauce!

*Gabby on his second plate of the Roasted Beef. Obviously, he ate with feelings! Hehehe!

One of the highlights of the evening was meeting Chef Petr of Sarkies at E&O. He was so friendly and accomodating to be photographed! I loved this photo as it captures the Chef and our very own Chef-Hotelier-Restaurateur-wannabe (so help me, God!)!

An eat-all-you-want is incomplete without desserts. Sarkies at E&O perfectly knows that and these are their current offerings.

*If you must know, this photo was taken by my lovely wife, Tina. Applause! I’m proud of her!!!

Over and beyond the gastronomic feast and its sweet ending, I loved how Tina savored the moments photographing her plates. She took turns in using her ipod and our SLR. I know she had fun capturing what we ate as she’s one of those foodies now on Instagram (follow her @ teenasantos on Ig).

Here’s my dessert plate :

And here’s Tina’s that she shared with Gabby :

Some of those are fractions of these :

*This is a portion of Sarkies’ Dessert-Christmas-Tree-in-Mid-March!

*Incredibly fantastic presentation, although I wished the doughnuts were softer.

Ambiance and service were impeccable! Our glasses were refilled with either warm or chilled water without prompting. The overall dining atmosphere and experience were classy yet comfortable and not intimidating.

Great food, excellent service, fine ambiance, good laughs, good friends.

*On our table : With Malaysian Bloggers all in black! What’s with black, lah? Hehehe! Oops, someone was wearing ecru! She’s one of our nicest Malaysian Blogger-friends, Emily of www.millymin.com.

Must facilitate peristalsis with coffee (not on photo) after fibrous fruits.

Interestingly, we met managers of Sarkies and of them even proudly said that he married a Filipina and has been to some places in our country upon learning that the three of us there are from the Philippines.

After having cups of coffee and exchange of chats with our fellows, we bid goodbye to Sarkies and thanked the famous foodie Malaysian Blogger, Criz Lai for inviting us. It was another memorable family-food-fun adventure for Tina, Gabby and I!

SARKIES’ CHEF PETR’S CATCH SEAFOOD BUFFET DINNER EXTRAVAGANZA | Eastern & Oriental Hotel Penang | Every Wednesday until last week of April 2013 | 7PM to 10:30PM

Regular prices at RM 110 ++(adult), RM 48++ (child).

Here are the other Dining Offerings at E&O Hotel Penang :

MARAMING SALAMAT ~ TERIMA KASIH ~ THANK YOU VERY MUCH to :

Sarkies at Eastern & Oriental Hotel, Penang | website : www.e-o-hotel.com/sarkies
Criz Lai of Criz Bon Appetite! for inviting me & my family | website : www.crizfood.com

>><<

Mar

A VISIT TO ORPHANAGES IN PENANG : PART 3

By docgelo 7 Comments

Categories: EVENTS and MALAYSIA
Tags: blog, blogging with a purpose, charity, chatime, doc gelo, docgelo, expat blog, family, generosity, Life, life with purpose, ninetology, penang orphanage, responsibile blogging, shan children's home penang, subway

Inside the bus, en route to our third and last destination for the day and while passing through cemeteries, we’re told that we needed to get off to walk a few meters because of the narrower roads cannot accomodate the big bus. The matter wasn’t an issue for those who wanted to reach out. No one complained. There were no signs of fatigue, neither exhaustion despite it has been a long day. We arrived at Penang Shan Children’s Home with smiles on our faces.

Look at that ear-to-ear-smile! His first time, I think to see a goat, up close! Momentous!

Few minute-of-walk-after, we arrived at the orphanage.

Here’s the board at Shan’s where they post a list of their daily needs. Let’s help them, please!

I salute all the Malaysian blogger-volunteers that day who did not only feed the children with Subway sandwiches & Chatime milk teas but spent precious time getting to know them. Time, indeed, is something priceless that one can generously share.

Personally, I’d like to express my gratitude to the sponsors of this worthwhile activity, Chatime Malaysia and Subway Sandwiches Penang (Suntech, iAvenue & Leith Street) that fed the children in the orphanages and all of us volunteers, Ninetology that gave iPad units to the orphanages for the children to be abreast with modern technology and the organizers and my fellow blogger-volunteers; Termia Kasih! You are all INSPIRING!

Few days after, our volunteerism landed on local and online news.

Thank you very much!

We hope to MOTIVATE more people to help, volunteer, donate & participate in any little way they can.

*Complete news on The Star online HERE!

Penang Shan Children’s Home Association | 679-D, Jalan Mount Erskine, Tanjung Tokong, 10470 Pulau Pinang, Malaysia | Tel: +604-2292186 / +6016-4127711 | Fax: +604-2292186

email: shanchildrenhomepg@yahoo.com

*This blog post is part of the series that includes :

Again, thank you to the sponsors of this worthwhile activity :

NINETOLOGY
CHATIME MALAYSIA
LANGKAWI CORAL
ALEXTAN ARTWORKS
CROWDPOT.COM
SUBWAY SANDWICHES (LEITH STREET, iAVENUE, SUNTECH)

>><<

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

CHASING LIONS & DRAGONS IN GEORGE TOWN, PENANG 2013

By docgelo 10 Comments

Categories: ILOVEPHOTOS, MALAYSIA and TRAVEL
Tags: backpackers' paradise, celebration, celebrations in malaysia, chinahouse, chinahouse penang, chinese arts, chinese drum performance, chinese god of wealth, chinese heritage, chinese new year, chinese new year 2013, clay molding, cny, cultural and heritage chinese new year celebration penang, culture, doc gelo, docgelo, dragon dance, drums, expatriate in malaysia, expats in malaysia, family, festivals, fun, george town penang, heritage, heritage trail penang malaysia, life in malaysia, lifestyle, lifestyle blogger, lion dance, malaysia, murals, must do in george town penang, must do in malaysia, must see in penang, must visit in george town penang, ofw, ofw in penang, penang, penang malaysia, prosperity, southeast asia, street arts, street arts in george town penang, street photography, TRAVEL, travel blog, travel blogger, trishaw, year of the snake

If I have to narrow down the reasons to be thankful, for living and working in Penang for almost 3 years now, being personally exposed and immersed to diversities in this UNESCO’s World Heritage Site will absolutely be on the top of my list. It’s always amazing how spending few hours in this quaint area of Pulau Pinang, either in an ordinary sunny day or during a very auspicious occasion, can be utterly enriching! Every experience exceeds expectation. Each visit has been a sensory feast! And this year’s Chinese New Year Cultural and Heritage Celebration in George Town, Penang wasn’t an exception!

*The tremedously beautiful, Khoo Kongsi is one of the clan houses in George Town worthy of visit.

I’m sure my wife, Tina (who had to stay again in our apartment during our visit for CNY to the island, for her to do the usual chores and get enough weekend rest), is also grateful for the countless times that our 8-year-old-son, Gabby has been discovering Malaysian tradition and cultures beyond books.

*Street art @ Armenian Street and the rest of GT rocks!

How could you not enjoy entering an art gallery for FREE?

*Metal sculptures Gabby and I really liked.

*Sitting on a trishaw, like a boss!

Because I knew our afternoon will be packed, a bladder break was a must! So before we continued our CNY-merriment in the streets, I invited Gabby to walk towards Chinahouse restaurant just to have a decent minutes in toilet.

The streets of George Town were filled with murals and new steel-rod- art installations that are great addition to the existing ones. Those whimsical caricatures on most walls mention a bit of something from this town’s past and present lifestyles and whatnot. It’s certainly a refreshing and innovative approach in bringing art, history and culture readily accessible to both local and foreign tourists. They easily appeal even to kids like Gabby!

*Our very own wandering wonder boy!

*Theater was brought again in the streets! Bravo!

*Talents and skills were overwhelming!

On the spot demonstrations of Chinese arts of sculpting, painting, weaving and even clay-molding were definitely crowd-drawing!

*Gabby and I loved those clay masterpieces! And you?

Needless to say, it was effortless for me to further enhance our son’s appreciation to the arts and someone else’s culture and tradition and more so, the need to value and constantly hone one’s skills and talents for self-improvement, forever and ever, Amen! LOL!

*Infectious smiles!

How often do you see a volume of men dressed as Chinese God of Wealth?

*What a sweet welcome to the year of the snake!
Regardless of our ethnicity and belief, we all wish this year to be more prosperous one!

*Rub those golden nuggets, Gabby! And our kid didn’t forget to get some candies!

No CNY celebration would be complete in any Chinatown without those traditional dragon and lion dances. And this year, Gabby and I were happy to witness an incredibly different performances in Kapitan Keling Mosque street.

It was a pleasure watching the performers from the time they prepared their acts, even happier of the fact that we savored everything in a very strategic spot. Despite my captures were so amateurish, the event was so momentous!

Vibrant colors, dynamic and synchronized moves are common to dragon and lion dances, but performing them on top of stilts or tables (one group had steel tables, the other was more daring dancing on wooden ones) made it more thrilling to watch!

I wish I had better shots! Everything was so awesome!

Can anyone confirm if these yellow and colorful creatures are what they called, Pi Xiu? Excitement heightened with their performance!

Enter the Dragonsssssssssssss!

*Twice the fortune, double the fun!

Photographers and other people with camera (like me!) tried to obstruct our best view of the event, thus I had more difficulty in documenting the scenes. I cannot blame them, it was really exciting!

*Culture in motion!

Happy to take this shot….

*Fantastic!

The celebration continued with a 68-drum-performance from an all-girl-group! Amazing!

*By their stance and synchronicity, you can tell that these are not your ordinary girls!

They’re beaming with passion!

Definitely stunning!

“Bravo! Bravo! Bravo!”

I kept on shouting with the crowd behind us and for a while, Gabby kept clapping his hands too! It was truly an outstanding performance!

No matter how imperfect the photo was and the dusk was upon us, I just had to snap my camera with one of those wonderful drummers and Gabby.

*Gabby’s ear-to-ear smile says it all!

And just before we thought we’ve seen everything, a live performance of Chinese Opera was on stage along Chulia Street.

Because the roads in these areas were temporarily closed to traffic, public buses and cars were rerouted making us walk and enjoyed some more minutes in George Town. Our feet brought us to Chinahouse again and this time not only to void but to grab some bites before hopping on the ferry and bus to go home to Butterworth.

*Chinahouse’s Tiramisu which has been a personal favorite plus Gabby’s choice of Chocolate Cake and tic tac toe really made sense!

It was another happy day in George Town! We cannot be grateful enough!

How was your Chinese New Year celebration?

>><<

Feb

WEEKLY PHOTO CHALLENGE : FORWARD

By docgelo 21 Comments

*Must step FORWARD to usher a more prosperous Chinese New Year!

Here’s a teaser to my next blog post about the very festive Cultural and Heritage Chinese New Year Celebration in George Town, Penang. More photos and blog post soon! This also serves as my entry to the Weekly Photo Challenge : Forward

Feb

MY MINI GUIDE TO GEORGE TOWN, PENANG

By docgelo 24 Comments

While my family and I have been living and working in Penang for almost 3 years now, I have not written yet a blog post summarizing the reasons why Penang is a must-visit place in Malaysia. So I was inspired by a travel magazine from Singapore that circulates around Asia where one of my amateur travel photos was fortunately published. Below is my mini-guide for first-time travelers to Pulau Pinang. Enjoy!

WHY GO?

Experience diversities in this cultural melting pot in Southeast Asia where Malays, Indians and Chinese blend harmoniously. Heritage trails, gastronomic delights, resorts and beaches can easily lure the traveler in you to bring your feet in this Northwestern Malaysian State.

*Street Art in Armenian Street, George Town Penang

WHEN TO GO

George Town Festival 2013 runs from June 07 to July 07 and during this month-long celebration of the anniversary of inscription of Penang’s capital as one of the UNESCO’s World Heritage Sites, Penangites’ culture and traditions are echoed in dances, street and theatrical performances, art exhibits and many more. However, one must know that revelry of each ethnic community in Penang is almost whole-year-round. The island’s sunny-weather also dictates no biases on when to plan a trip to George Town.

HOW TO GO

George Town is so accessible via air, land and sea. Fly directly from Singapore or Kuala Lumpur to Penang with Air Asia or other airlines. Take a bus from Singapore or Kuala Lumpur to Butterworth or a train ride from Bangkok to Penang Sentral and hop on the ferry at the jetty in Butterworth to reach George Town in Pulau Pinang (Penang island) from Seberang Perai (mainland). The iconic ferry ride takes about 12-15 minute trip but waiting may be a little bit longer. Alternatively, one may take a taxi ride from either the Penang International Airport to George Town (or take the public commuter, Rapid Penang bus), or take a taxi cab from Penang Sentral Bus Station in Butterworth after alighting off the bus or train via the 13.5 kilometer-Penang Bridge, the longest in Southeast Asia.

*Ferry in George Town, Penang Jetty

SEE

BEST FOR VIEWS : Penang Hill located about 6 kilometers from George Town and 833 meters above sea level, it’s the perfect spot to get a glimpse of the island and the mainland of Penang. Best to go there : the very first trip of the day of the Swiss-made funicular train from the foot of Bukit Bendera at 6:30AM. Experience the Malaysian dusk while waiting for the glorious sunrise. Savor a Penangite breakfast at the foodcourt and appreciate nocturnal-feathered artsy crafts inside The Owl Museum. Penang Hill is almost a complete community with its Post Office, Bellevue Hotel, shrines of worship (Hindu and Muslim), gardens, playground and restaurants. The roundtrip fare for funicular train is US$ 9.42.

*Taken from Penang Hill

BEST FOR CULTURE : It’s a must for every heritage suckers to spend a couple of nights or more in this quaint Malaysian island. With a unique fusion of diversities from Malays, Indians and Chinese, their opulent and rich histories that are apparent in the city’s clan houses, museums and living heritage, can effortlessly fascinate even the most idle tourist. MUST VISITS are Pinang Peranakan Mansion located in 29 Lebuh Gereja or Church Street, George Town(Monday to Sunday including Public Holidays from 9:30 am to 5 pm, Admission rate: US$ 3.15). Cheong Fatt Tze Mansion also known as the Blue Mansion is both a heritage mansion and a hotel in Leith Street, George Town (Daily guided heritage tours of the house in English : 11am / 1.30pm / 3pm Admission fee US$ 3.77). Khoo Kongsi in Cannon Street, George Town (Open daily with US$ 3:15 Admission fee). Penang State Museum and Art Gallery located at Faruqar Street is also not to be missed (Admission fee of US$ 0.314).

*Khoo Kongsi

*Pinang Peranakan Mansion

BEST FOR WALKING : George Town, Penang’s Heritage Trail stretches from the parallels of Chulia Street include Kapitan Keling, Armenian, Cannon, Muntri , Church, Pitt, Leith Streets and many more. Clan Houses, street food stalls that are more popularly known as hawkers and restaurants to suit a wide range of budget offer Malay, Chinese, Indian and even Western cuisines, various Hindu temples, Muslim mosques, Taoist shrines and Catholic and other religious churches, art installations on walls of shophouses around George Town can be spotted randomly by foot. And when both feet and legs become sore, hopped in a traditional trishaw to upgrade the city’s sightseeing. If nature and some trekking interest you, head directly to Penang Botanic Garden, Penang Butterfly Farm or Tropical Spice Garden via taxi cab or Rapid Penang Bus where strolling under lush greens and blooms provides soothing atmosphere.

*Penang Butterfly Farm

*Little India at the heart of George Town

BEST FOR ESCAPE : For less than 10 minute Drive or 20-30 minute taxi cab or Rapid Penang Bus-ride from George Town to Batu Ferringhi , soak your feet on the sand and shoreline of Penang beaches. Hundreds of possibilities awaits you in Batu Ferringhi; there are water sports, night bazaars, hotels and spas , food, food and more food!

EAT & DRINK

HAWKER FOOD STALLS in the streets of George Town and Gurney Drive are the best in the island. It’s a must to savor Chicken Satay, Char Koay Teow, Dim Sums, Hainanese Chicken Rice, Penang Assam Laksa that ranked 7th on CNN’s list of Most Delicious Food in the World and the Malaysian staple food, Nasi Lemak (literally means, fatty rice made up of boiled rice from coconut milk, with hard boiled egg, roasted peanuts, anchovies, slices of cucumber, sambal or red and spicy sauce served with chicken or seafood wrapped in banana leaf and newspaper). While most food shops are Halal, there are also lots of hawkers and restaurants serving otherwise.

*Char Koay Teow : A personal favorite!

*Dim Sums from De Tai Tong

OLD TOWN RESTAURANT in Burma Road and inside malls in Penang serves a variety of Malaysian dishes and beverages from breakfast, lunch and dinner.

RESTORAN KAPITAN that’s open 24 jam (24 hours) located at the corner of Pitt Street and Chulia Street in Little India, George Town serves the best Indian food in the island. Must sample dishes are the Chicken Tandoori set with either Cheese or Garlic Naan, Butter Chicken Masala, Chicken Kebab, Briyani, Tosai, and their fruity infused yoghurt beverage, Lassi. Try Mango Lassi or Mango shake, or wash down everything with Milo-ais (iced Milo) or a glass of coffee or tea. Other Indian dishes can be tasted from Nasi Kandar restaurants.

*Mango Lassi from Restoran Kapitan

KEDAI KOPI or coffee shops in the island offer Kopi with condensed milk or simply black, either in hot or cold mugs. Also popular drinks are Teh Tarik (literally means, pulled tea because the tea is pulled and poured in a height from the mug to make it frothy), Milo-ais (or iced Milo), Minuman Laicee or Lycee drink, Teh-o-ais or iced tea without milk and yes, a lot of milk tea craze in Penang too! Try buying a drink from a hawker stall and you’ll sip it from straw in a plastic bag of the drink tied with a loop. If you feel like indulging and splurging a bit, troop to either Chinahouse, Edelweiss Cafe or Amelie Cafe located at the heart of George Town.

*Chinahouse : Their Tiramisu is a must-try!!!

*Edelweiss Cafe

ROTI BOY in most malls in Pulau Pinang sells the best buttery buns on Earth! Definitely, a must-try!!!

SLEEP

Head to Lebuh Chulia or Chulia Street for most foreigners’ favorite backpackers’ hotels and inns where mostly offer ranging from bed space to bed and breakfast, with internet café or coffee shop or restaurant at the ground level and sleeping spaces at its next.

If you dig accommodation with heritage appeal, try reserving a room at either Yeng Keng Hotel, also in Chulia Street or Cheong Fatt Tze Mansion in Leith Street.

When money isn’t an issue to you, premiere hotels in Penang includes Hard Rock Hotel Penang, Eastern and Oriental, Shangri la’s Rasa Sayang Spa and Resort, G Hotel, Traders Hotel and so much more.

*HardRock Hotel Penang in Batu Ferringhi

ESSENTIALS

GETTING AROUND : Tour around George Town in a day or two or immerse yourself in travel with Penangites’ lifestyle in a week or so via Rapid Penang Buses, taxi cabs, trishaws or by foot. Bus fares start at US$ 0.44 and up.

CLIMATE : Sunny all year long with few episodes of rainfall.

TYPICAL COST :

Nasi Lemak : US$ 0.314
Cendol or Ais Kacang : US$ 0.94
Decent B&B : starts from US$ 15
High end hotel : starts from US$ 219
Visit to Cheah Kongsi : FREE!
Penang WIFI : FREE!

MORE RECOMMEDATIONS

AFFORDABLE EAT-ALL-YOU-WANT : Along Macalister Road at the heart of George Town Penang lies Towne Steamboat and Buffet that opens from 5PM onwards, where one can try his hands on cooking dim sum, cold cuts, seafoods and veggies on sour or spicy broth via steamboat, and also eat and enjoy cooked dim sums, fried goodies, chicken satay, steamed crabs, noodle dishes and desserts including bottomless ice cream bar and drinks for an affordable cost. US$9.40

BEST HAWKER STALLS : Bring your feet at the back of Plaza Gurney, and by the bay, your nose will be led by the aroma of gastronomic dishes from rows of the best hawker stalls in town. There you can find the best Char Koay Teow in Penang for my tastebuds.

MALL RATTING : Visit Pulau Pinang’s shopping malls that usually have 70-80% discounts on almost all items from clothes, luggages, kitchen and bedroom stuff to gadgets during great Malaysian season sale (July-December)

JALAN PENANG : A visit to George Town, Penang isn’t complete without strolling along Jalan Penang or Penang Road from Komtar –the tallest building in Pulau Pinang. Jalan Penang has Chowrasta Market, souvenir stalls and a ton of shop houses that sells almost everything you could imagine.

PLACES OF WORSHIPS : Do not miss to visit Kapitan Keling Mosque along Buckingham street, Standing Buddha in Burmese Temple, Reclining Buddha in Thai Temple (both located in Burma Road), St. George Church in Farquhar Street, it’s the oldest Anglican church in Southeast Asia and the other shrines located at the outskirts of Penang island -the picturesque Kek Lok Si Temple and the Floating Mosque.

CLAN JETTIES : Drop by Chew Jetty along Pengkalan Weld (a stone’s throw away from Jetty and Rapid Bus Station in George Town); Chew Jetty is one of the many clan jetties or water settlements by locals whose houses are built on stilts and are required to be preserved by UNESCO World Heritage Site authorities. Catch the sunrise, while away time by staring at the beauty of Penang Bridge or wait and watch for the sunset, take a cruise by boat from poles of the island via Chew Jetty.

PENANGITE DESSERTS : Cendol and Ais Kacang, an icy, fruity and nutty desserts available in hawker food stalls and restaurants around the island.

Hungry for more information about George Town, Penang?

Here’s a partial rundown of links to my previous blog posts about this beautiful island we called

our second home.

George Town Festival 2011
George Town Festival 2012
George Town in Less Than A Day
Kek Lok Si Temple
Penang Hill
Armenian Street
Pinang Peranakan Mansion
Pinang Peranakan Mansion Part 2
Cheong Fatt Tze
Khoo Kongsi
Chew Jetty
Shangri La’s Rasa Sayang Resort and Spa
Spice Market Cafe at Shangri La’s Rasa Sayang Resort and Spa
Yeng Keng Hotel
Hard Rock Hotel Penang
Food Porn at Hard Rock Hotel Penang
G Cafe at G Hotel Penang
G Cafe at G Hotel Part 2
Penang Toy Museum
Penang Assam Laksa
Penang State Museum
Tropical Spice Garden
Penang Butterfly Farm
Penang Spice Trail
Steamboat Buffet
Chinahouse
Chinahouse Part 2
Chinahouse Part 3
Edelweiss Cafe
De Tai Tong : Chinese Food | Mid Autumn Festival
Amelie Cafe
Cendol : Must Try!!!
Charlie Brown Cafe at Straits Quay

*Incidentally, this blog is nominated again under the Best Expat Blog category of Ministry of Tourism Malaysia’s MITBCA. If you think this site deserves YOUR VOTE, kindly go to this site : http://www.mitbca.com/category.php?id=9

then click the log in fb button,
once logged in to fb, click the list of category on the left sidebar and select EXPAT, then hit the VOTE button for docgelo.com. Thank you!

>><<

Feb

VOTE FOR DOCGELO.COM

By docgelo 20 Comments

For the second year in a row,

it is my honor that this blog is nominated

in the 2013 Ministry of Tourism Malaysia’s MITBCA Best Expat Blog Award category.

“Since the debut of the Malaysia International Tourism Bloggers Conference & Awards in 2012 which rewarded some of the world’s most accomplished Travel-Social Media Bloggers, MITBCA 2013 is set to spin this year’s event with a more exciting approach, leaving others to admire and emulate upon. Malaysia has set its pace to be on the forefront of reach into social media. Undeniably, there is a definitive difference between monitoring our brand in social media and using traditional methodologies in reaching out to build on tourism numbers. Travel is certainly a very hot topic across all social media channels and is one of the Top Three online topics of discussion and engagement. It surely encourages new network build up, new clientele bases and new innovative ideas being put across.” ~Sourced from www.mitbca.com

Last year’s moments were surreal (blog post HERE!), and to be honest about it, I do not mind experiencing it again! But that’s impossible to happen without your generous support.

And why does this humble site deserve YOUR VOTE?

Let these photos that were previously featured in last year’s blog posts

remind you how my family and I create our own adventure here in Malaysia.

So if you believe this blog is worthy of your generosity,

Here’s how to VOTE

Go to this link : http://www.mitbca.com/category.php?id=9

then click the log in fb button,
once logged in to fb,
click the list of category and choose EXPAT,
then hit the VOTE button for docgelo.com.

Maraming salamat po!

Terima Kasih!

Thank you very much!

Mabuhay!

>><<

Feb

A VISIT TO ORPHANAGES IN PENANG

By docgelo 9 Comments

03 February 2013, Sunday. As we left Tina in our apartment in Butterworth for she needed to prepare and do a lot of things for the new week, Gabby and I hopped on the Rapid Penang Bus to Penang Sentral; took the almost weekly routinary 15-minute- ferry ride from jetty to reach Georgetown and took another ride to get into Straits Quay -the meeting place of bloggers who volunteered to the program called, Time To Give Back, to visit 3 orphanages in Pulau Pinang organized by Responsible Blogging Malaysia 2013.

I was the happiest Daddy in the world when my son volunteered to tag along. I regarded the opportunity as a very special one as it doesn’t happen on a daily basis, that we get to reach out in our own little way to children who badly needed aid. Gabby’s eagerness to participate was remarkably surprising as he traded his time in watching cartoons and kiddie movies for this activity. Tina and I couldn’t be grateful enough for the chance, as charity was defined to our son not only by our words but by his own experience.

That shopping bag on the first photo above was filled with his own used clothes and a few toys that he personally chose and prepared with his mom.

Gladly, we reached Straits Quay, a premier seafront shopping, dining and residential complex in the island, about half an hour prior to 12noon – the call time for this event. We hurriedly grabbed some bites in one of its restaurants before we met the other volunteers.

Thank you, Chatime Malaysia for being one of the sponsors! Your iced teas and milk teas truly quenched our thirst last Sunday! The kids enjoyed the drinks, the volunteers too!

Subway sandwiches, you’re really are a favorite! Even long before this activity, Subway’s a family favorite! Thank you for feeding all of us! May your generosity be followed by other food establishments!

We departed Straits Quay and arrived safely in Ramakrishna Ashram. A fine weather greeted all of us!

Apparently, this humble post aims to inspire and encourage its readers (yes, you!) to extend their helping hands by either donating generously, participate-in-a-sponsor-a-child-program, contribute in the children’s new school building fund. Details and information are all in their website via http://theramakrishnapg.org/

“To laugh often and much;
to win the respect of intelligent people
and the affection of children,
to leave the world a better place,
to know even one life has breathed easier
because you have lived,
this is to have succeeded.”

- Ralph Waldo Emerson

This orphanage and the other two that I will be featuring next, also received one unit of tablet from another sponsor, Ninetology Malaysia.

One of the orphanage’s posts in their bulletin board is a heartfelt gratitude :

I personally endorsed Gabby’s donation to the “uncle” who’s one of the people-in-charge of the kids in Ramakrishna Ashram.

Although we only spent a little over an hour and left with everyone and headed to the next orphanage, moments were very meaningful. No words were needed to explain everything to Gabby. We were all reminded by the experience to appreciate and value more whatever he have.

*Contact details of The Ramakrishna Ashrama (Orphanage) :

37, Jalan Scotland, 10450 Penang | Tel: +604-2270869 | Fax: +604-2278921

E-mail: ramkorp@hotmail.com | Website: http://theramakrishnapg.org/

*This blog post is part of the series that includes :

Again, thank you to the sponsors of this worthwhile activity :

NINETOLOGY
CHATIME MALAYSIA
LANGKAWI CORAL
ALEXTAN ARTWORKS
CROWDPOT.COM
SUBWAY SANDWICHES (LEITH STREET, iAVENUE, SUNTECH)

*Special thanks goes out to the people behind www.responsibleblogging.my for allowing us to participate in this worthwhile endeavor.

>>><<<

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

CHIANG MAI SERIES : SATURDAY MORNING AT THE ZOO

By docgelo 20 Comments

December 29, 2012. Saturday. 6:30AM. Probably, I was one of the earliest “birds” who left A Little Bird Guesthouse in this narrow alley in downtown Chiang Mai. My gameplan for the weekend? Nada! Nothing much except to see pandas in Chiang Mai Zoo. And since I didn’t set a concrete plan, neither did extensive research prior to this solo backpacking trip, I was happy at the end of the day where my foot took me. These are the things I saw, the food I tasted, the scents I smelled, the scenes I experienced and a few lessons relearned that day.

Few steps away from the guesthouse, I found myself standing in Tha Phae Road again. I saw monks carrying bowls for their most humble daily routine. Regardless of religion, humility still rocks in any part of the globe.

Handsome orchids in the streets. Penalty for picking : 2,000 baht. I didn’t know if that fine is per flower or worse, per petal. What I know of, laws are implemented properly in this Northern part of Thailand. Obviously, it’s not as urbanized to other Asian cities I’ve been to–Singapore or Tokyo but just the same, local people and tourists are as impressive for being law-abiding.

Tha Phae Gate. I’m back at Tha Phae Gate again; the main landmark in the middle of the road of downtown Chiang Mai. I strolled and crossed the street and looked for something to warm my tummy.

Starbucks Coffee. I know, it’s not Thai but I failed to resist the lure of grande cup of Christmas blend, Toffee Nut! It really perked me up; my morning started right, thus the entire day turned out to be one of the grandest!

Around 7:30AM, I walked towards Tha Phae Gate again, crossed the road to hail a songthaew, or a red taxi cab to take me to the zoo.

This park at the middle of the road is alcohol-free. The lateral streets aren’t. At least they have controlled areas while in other countries -hmmm, nevermind!

Inside the iconic, Songthaew (literally, “two rows”). Of all the red taxi cabs or songthaew, I was fortunate and happy to find this one on the road that morning! Other than the fact that the driver instantly agreed to take me exclusively with no other passengers to Chiang Mai Zoo from Tha Phae Gate for only 60 baht (6 ringgit or US$ 2), I felt ultimately safe inside and did not entertain evil thoughts about the driver. How could I? Look what’s written inside this cab…

Low cost in Chiang Mai. In my 4D3N stay in Chiang Mai, I appreciated the fact that almost everything, if not all are cheap. Case in point, the 60-baht-fare in that “special trip” via songthaew; the trip took around half an hour and it’s still budget-friendly.

Welcome to Chiang Mai Zoo! I shelved the fact that I will enter a facility that cages animals and displays them far from their natural habitats. I gave Chiang Mai Zoo the benefit of the doubt.

From its facade, I walked my way to the main entrance of Chiang Mai Zoo. It appeared to me like a huge medical institution back home (reminded me of East Avenue Medical Center!) rather than an animal park.

Its admission rate of 100 baht per adult (US$ 3.40) was so easy on the pocket.

After a bladder break and purchasing a ticket, I was ready to explore Chiang Mai Zoo! But wait, someone didn’t tell me the roads will be uphill and the vicinity is as huge as you can imagine (think of Camp John Hay in Baguio City or UP Diliman campus in scale).

Tip : Best to go to Chiang Mai Zoo at its opening -1oAM. Less crowded, not so humid, more time to roam around.

Greetings from pink and wading flamingos!

I reached this entrance part by walking uphill. Repeat, uphill! *panting* I smiled upon the sight of Bus Stop sign.

Without hesitation, I purchased ticket for unlimited bus and monorail access. It helped me navigated the zoo faster; and even gave me quick ideas to select areas of interests.

After buying a ticket for the transpo worth 100 baht (US$ 3.40), I waited and sat on this swing.

Saw these mushroom-themed panda table and seats.

I immediately stood up from my seat when my eyes caught these vibrant blooms.

Gelo, Welcome to Chiang Mai Zoo! I never thought Chiang Mai Zoo has manicured and lush garden to boast! Happiness and satisfaction are what we get when we don’t set great expectations.

I hopped on the shuttle bus and sat beside the driver. First stop was approximately 1 kilometer from where I waited. Pandas!

Excited and clueless, I got off the bus without asking if it’s the panda station already. Turned out negative! I walked my way up rather than wait for few minutes for another bus. Didn’t I tell you the roads inside Chiang Mai Zoo is uphill? Repeat again, uphill! lol

Finally, PANDAS!!! I purchased again another ticket to see the pandas. OK. Some may considered it ain’t cheap anymore! Can’t blame you. But it’s still pocket-friendly compared to other attractions I’ve been to. All in all, these were my tickets inside Chiang Mai Zoo. I still think it’s cheap for it didn’t cost me my arms and legs.

My very first time to see PANDAS! At 36 years old, I felt like 6 again!

Chiang Mai Zoo houses 3 pandas but for unknown reason, I only saw two. The visit wasn’t time-pressured. I spent one hour outside their playing ground overlooking at one from a viewing deck. The area had blocks and piles of ice to keep the temperature down. To date, they’re the cutest creatures I’ve ever laid eyes on!

After an hour, I decided to go down and take a peek the pandas inside. I saw another one, munching at their staples -bamboos and wooden chops. I wondered where the third panda was. Must be sleeping somewhere.

I thought after seeing pandas for the first time, my weekend was done. I craved for more. Although I didn’t have the time to explore the entirety of Chiang Mai Zoo, I opted to spend a couple of hours more to maximize my stay and gladly, I made the right move.

Kids are blessed to be carefree all the time!

I didn’t dare try those water balls available at different colors for 90 baht. Neither I wished to sample their zipline; not because I chickened out; but because I didn’t have company to do it *lame excuse*

Brunch! This was my view when I was eating my late breakfast-early lunch!

Pork leg and knuckles. Chinese style. I died and went to heaven!

My well spent 50 baht (plus 20 baht for Coke!).

Brunch inside Chiang Mai Zoo. *Burp*

Another view from where I ate my meal. Oh, look! Monorail! hahaha! Talking to myself became so practically funny those days! lol

Brushed my teeth and took another bladder break before I headed to the waiting area for the shuttle bus. I went off the bus on its next stop : Children’s Zoo where the KOALAS are! Another first time to see such cute mammals! The 36-year-old-kid-in-me was smiling ear to ear!

And because Koalas are nocturnal, they have the license to sleep during daytime. I wished I could be narcoleptic sans being nocturnal *laziness kicked in*

My final ride on the shuttle bus took me to the Monorail station. Prior to that, an elephant dropped by to greet us, hello!

I regret not going down the bus where the Penguins are. I passed up the chance because Tina, Gabby and I already saw live penguins in Kelly Tarlton’s Antarctic Adventure in New Zealand back in 2005. Then I thought it would not hurt if I did go.

Then I rode the most sluggish Monorail I’ve taken ever. It took me around 40 minutes to cap the entire trip en route to the area near the gate. But I realized everything fell into right timing when I saw a parade coming! This must be my lucky weekend!

Amused at how Chiang Mai Zoo parades its animals.

Thanks to the parade, I had an up close encounter with those koalas! Of course, they became wide awake!

I saw other animals like lions and lioness, white tigers, girraffes and others. There were aviary and aquarium too that I didn’t go to. Nevertheless, I was happy to be in Chiang Mai Zoo before it was packed by other tourists! By the time they’re entering the gates, I was already finding my way out! It always pays to be early all the time!

A zoo offers children and people of all ages an opportunity to somehow interact and learn essential concepts about environment and the ecosystem as a whole. And if learning would be too heavy, at least develop or enhance appreciation. Obviously, not everyone has access or can afford to go to a safari or at least a forest, so visiting a zoo is the next best thing.

With its vast area, it goes without saying that animals in Chiang Mai Zoo have the freedom to roam around despite being “caged”. They’re given an artificial habitat almost similar to their natural ones. And for that of course, Chiang Mai Zoo, I like!

This is NOT a sponsored post. If you want to know more about Chiang Mai Zoo, visit their website at www.chiangmaizoo.com

*This Chiang Mai Blog Series includes :

>><<

Jan

CHIANG MAI SERIES : ELEPHANT ADVENTURE AND MORE IN ONE DAY

By docgelo 17 Comments

Categories: FOOD & MORE FOOD!, ILOVEPHOTOS, THAILAND and TRAVEL
Tags: adventure, adventures in thailand, backpacking asia, backpacking southeast asia, backpacking thailand, chiang mai blog, chiang mai thailand, doc gelo, docgelo, Eat all you can, Eat all you want, elephant camp chiang mai, elephant camp thailand, elephant ride thailand, elephants in southeast asia, elphant ride, happiness, hill tribes thailand, karen long neck tribe, Life, life abroad, life overseas, lifestyle blog, lifestyle blogger, long neck women, maetaman elephant camp, must do in thailand, must see in thailand, ox cart ride, places to go in chiang mai, places to go in thailand, places to visit in thailand, things to do in chiang mai, things to see in chiang mai, tours in chiang mai, travel blog, travel blogger, travel tours in thailand, travelling, travels, tropical, vacation, what to do in chiang mai, what to do in thailand, what to eat in chiang mai, what to see in chiang mai, where to go in chiang mai

Some people invest on material things, my family and I on memories. One of my unforgettable days in my brief, solo-backpacking trip from Penang to Chiang Mai was spent entirely inside an elephant camp and a few more itineraries. I wished I could share the fun with Tina and Gabby that day but then again, my wife has vertigo and will surely not enjoy the long and rough rides. Tina really didn’t want to go and preferred to enjoy the remaining days of our Yuletide holiday with more relaxing moments and simply allowed me to experience everything I had on this trip. And for that, I cannot be grateful enough. Getting a green light from my wife for this trip was one of my best Holiday gifts to date.

No debate on having Do-It-Yourself-Travels better than availing of a touristy package tour.

I did both on this trip.

I thought I could save a lot of time and money particularly in transportation fares

so I contacted a licensed tour operator in Chiang Mai via email and reserved a slot for

a whole-day-Elephant-Safari-Adventure!

And I’m happy I made the right move.

28 December 2012. Friday, 8AM sharp. Just in time when I came down from my room at the second level, I saw the Thai tourist guide, Mr. Oak flashing an A4 paper with “Gelo Santos” written on it, to a group of backpackers at the gate of our guesthouse. I raised my hand while walking towards him and said, “Here” while everybody else waiting uttered with disappointment, “Oh, that’s him and not us!” “OK, take your ride and have fun! We’ll continue to wait for ours.” I guess everyone that day was extremely excited to explore & discover Chiang Mai.

I found out I was the very first tourist picked up by the van driver and Mr. Oak. There were 9 others to be fetched from guesthouses and hotels that day. There were mature couples from Australia, Japan and Hong Kong plus a young and lone backpacker from China. Everything went well until we waited for almost 30 minutes for the group of young Indians whose passports were from New Zealand. All of us, particularly the tourist guide were pissed off by such insensitive and inconsiderate tardiness. In fairness to the late comers, one of them apologized to us for making us wait but cliche as it sounds, I believe “the damage has already been done!”

After that waiting game, it took us around one hour ride from downtown Chiang Mai to reach our destination. En route, I saw a number of Elephant Camps; there are actually a volume in that Northern part of Thailand! It was almost 10AM when we set foot at Maetaman Elephant Camp. People in our group forgot the hassle of waiting that morning and became instantly thrilled to experience everything we availed from this package tour.

It was probably one my best indulgences ever with no regrets of shelling out 1300 baht (USD 44) for this tour that included the following :

Shuttle airconditioned van
Pick up and drop off at hotel/guesthouse
All entrance fees
English-speaking tour guide
Elephant show
Ox-cart ride
Elephant ride
Buffet lunch of Thai specialties
Bamboo raft ride
Visit to village of Long Necked Women
Visit to Orchid and Butterfly Farm
Bottle of distilled water

It’s a steal actually! The day was worth it for each baht spent. The memories gained were absolutely enriching!

ELEPHANT SHOW

If my memory serves me right, the very first time I laid eyes on an elephant was 3 decades ago in Manila Zoo back home. Imagine the excitement of the child-in-me to first appreciate performances from these huge Asian mammals even for half an hour only! FYI, elephants here differ from African elephants for having smaller sets of ears and tusks. They may be smaller in size compared to other similar species but their skills and talents were overwhelming!

The show started with a cute and appropriate flag raising ceremony.

Soon followed by the parade of the “big” stars.

Frontliners were the babies holding ~~hands~~ tails and snouts while strolling. Sweet!

The tourists’ enjoyment began and the kid-in-me was left in awe during its half hour duration. I was smiling widely when they walked forward with hoola hoops while playing jofyful tunes on harmonica too! Amazing, isn’t it? Can you do both yourself? It takes more than skills but pure talent!

They performed tricks to the audience’s delight.

Yeah, the show went on in between instant bladder and bowel breaks! Because of that, I considered these skillful mammals as few of the most professional entertainers I’ve ever met! They’re more than amazing!

So they played and throw balls at the goals, made tunes on harmonica while there’s hoola hoops on their snouts, demonstrated that they can do massages, but above all those talents and might, my favorite part of this short but amusing elephant show was this…

This was beyond talent and skills!!! Apparently, its creativity! I loved the art but I loved the artist more! Bravo!!!

If only money was not an issue to me, I could have bought that painting for 1000 baht or 100 ringgit (USD 34) from their gallery. They sell the elephants’ paintings in a small gallery-gift shop immediately after the entrance to the camp. Proceeds, of course goes to mahouts, maintenance of the camp and care for these elephants.

For 30 baht each, tourists can purchase a bunch of bananas or a pack of sugar cane to feed the elephants. Unfortunately, I forgot to break my limited bills that left me no chance to buy.

Interaction with the audience was such an experience! It doesn’t happen on a daily basis!

I was also on facepalm mood when I didn’t give a tip to the mahouts when one of them generously guided one elephant to offer me a huge hug!

More so, when one of them asked me to experience what this man on the next photo enjoyed. Yes, I was also literally raised by an elephant through its snout. Tipping was not compulsory but shame on me, I had no small bills to hand in as tip to the mahouts.

I wondered if Gabby would like to ride a baby elephant even just for a photo-op.

While waiting for the other tourists in my group, this scene caught my eyes.

Let’s do this!

After the 30-minute Elephant Show, we were ushered to the waiting area for Elephant and Ox-Cart Rides.

OX-CART AND ELEPHANT RIDES

We met the cows that will bear our weights from the camp to the fields. Seriously, some people might pity the cows (and the elephants) for being used for Tourism but then again, I looked at it in a positive way that it’s better for these animals to have shelter where they can roam around rather than caged in zoos (OK, so I also went in zoo the next day) or left in the wild (of course, it’s their natural habitats but like in the real world, it has a lot of uncertainties) without ready prey or food. At least in a camp like this, they’re being fed on a regular basis and care is provided by the authorities.

Four people per cart x 2 cows. Let’s go!

We were told the Ox-Cart Ride will be very rough and dusty and will take around 20-30 minutes. I had fun looking at the road and the scenery more than the bumpy ride. The rural scene was beyond marvelous! The weather was at its finest! Mother Nature at her best!

When the ride turned right, the scene before our eyes transformed into a more inviting one. It felt like being in one of Amorsolo’s paintings; the scenery was surreal! It was very visually relaxing!

The Ox-Cart Ride took us to a hilly area where a drop-off point is located. Tourists were greeted by Lesu tribespeople and the handcrafted commodities they sell.

We were on queue for almost 20 minutes for the Elephant Ride and this is how the area where you take that ride looks like.

Those are the Australian couple who were on our group. They were touring Southeast Asia and came from Bangkok prior to Chiang Mai. I admire their zest for adventure and how they celebrate LIFE. Wait, at this point, I’m next in line!

I was paired to ride everything in this tour with the young Chinese lady who came to Chiang Mai as part for her vacation from her 2-month-studies in Bangkok before she returns back to her schooling in Holland. Enough with the introduction, HERE WE GO!!!

Kapit!!! (Hold on!) I told myself silently.

Look at my grip! I’m holding the handle bar for my life and my family’s sake! lol.

So that’s how it feels like to ride an elephant! The child-in-me was happiest to feel the wind on my face as my heart was pounding like hell! lol. One hand on the handle bar, one hand capturing the moments with my camera. At 36, I never thought I’d feel like 6 again! Unbelievable!

One little step of this giant, one bump. It was fun!!!

I was enjoying the whole time until my world ceased for a sec. I saw the elephant about to step down the stairs to the river. Goodness! Imagine one little step it made to go down those stairs was one giant bump that made me feel one wrong step we”ll fell to the ground or worse, drowned in the waters. But the great elephant we’re riding made every step as precised as ever. Incredible! Definitely, one for the books! :P

Into the river! Here we gooooooo! (If I could only speak Thai, I’ve told the mahout, “Kuya, I cannot swim!” lol)

Those elephant steps on the stairs to the river were totally EXHILARATING!

While the elephant we’re riding was walking through the river, I continued uttering my prayers quietly for the fear of falling into the waters where few areas had giant stools from these amazing mammals! lol.

The next photos show that one spot in the river that unspokenly declared as the elephants’ public toilet where they randomly stop to attend to the necessary call of nature.

While the elephants stop by this area of the river for bowel and bladder breaks, the tourists do the touristy things!

Let’s gooooo!

If the descent to the river via elephant ride made my heart to contract faster, the ascent wasn’t exceptional. Good luck to us, our mahout and our elephant! *prayers were uttered again at this moment* lol

Glad to survive the happy-ordeal.

Would you consider riding an elephant in your lifetime? I never thought I would but it happened.

Then the glorious moment came. Time for buffet lunch!

LUNCH BUFFET OF THAI SPECIALTIES

The table reserved for our group…

Spacious and airy food place. Nice!

Like hungry wolves, we came in full force to the buffet table!

The spread tasted better than it looks on my photos. Well, they’re not super delicious and not bad-tasting either. It had the chicken curry that fell fine on my taste buds for it somewhat like cooked the way Filipinos do that dish; not too spicy with no overpowering flavor. Everything’s appreciated for the meal was included in the tour package.

Here comes the shameless display of what I feasted in Maetaman Elephant Camp.

I must be so hungry that time that I wrongly paired the chopsticks I picked up from the spread -one’s disposable, the other one’s not. Silly! I only realized it when I was sorting out my photos.

The slices of watermelon were fresh but not the sweetest; nonetheless I was glad to know the restaurant also offered free-flowing coffee and tea. How good to end a meal with it! The diner in me was indeed happy!

After lunch, we were given ample time to go to toilets and freshen up then off we went to the waiting shed for the bamboo raft ride.

BAMBOO RAFT RIDE

Ladies and gentlemen, boys and girls, meet our bamboo submarine that day…. oops, bamboo rafts, I mean. lol

Thank God, the weather was so fine that day and I’d say it again, Mother Nature at her very best!

Spot the solitary tourist on the next photo, lol. I was alone but not lonely!

So relaxing to see nature and appreciate all things wonderful. Even more beautiful is to be stress-free and be away from work and monthly bills! This trip was certainly a breather from my daily house-work-house-work-routine! It’s invigorating actually!

Other bamboo raft riders created their own adventure by being the guides to raft themselves! We were actually asked by our guide to do such but I lazily chose to stay on my seat and simply absorb all things visually.

The Japanese couple in our group sat, in front of me on the raft were taking turns in capturing the scenes. I wish to the same with Tina and Gabby in more travels in the future!

I didn’t expect the bamboo raft ride to take around 45 minutes and was surprised to enjoy the long ride on the river!

Smiled when I saw a floating refreshment store.

Mother Nature was overwhelming!

We disembarked from the rafts and returned back to our shuttle van that was waiting for us at the parking lot on a hill beside the river.

VISIT TO THE VILLAGE OF LONG NECKED WOMEN

Our Thai tourist guide provided us free bottles of distilled water each before we hopped in the van and headed to the next itinerary. We were brought to the Kayan Hill Tribe Village of the Padaung Women-refugees from Myanmar; the so called, Long Necked Women (blog post with their portraits and story, HERE!).

After that engaging-once-in-a-lifetime-encounter with those refugees from Myanmar, we went to our last stop for the day.

ORCHID AND BUTTERFLY FARM

What else could be seen in an Orchid Farm but orchids! But hey, I have not seen such enormous species of this flower ever in my life until this trip! Name the variety and the color, they have it! Amazing!

Orchids are ubiquitous in Chiang Mai, they’re everywhere beyond this farm. I even see such floral species in streets downtown. I took nothing but photos because it’s not my nature to pick flowers. Not to mention picking a bloom will cost you a penalty of 2000 baht (per flower? lol).

And that’s a wrap, folks!

I asked Mr. Oak to drop me off not to my guesthouse, but on the main road where there’s an ATM machine. I ended my long and happy day in Chiang Mai with this cheap meal from an airconditioned corner food stall located along Tha Phae Road called, Farm Story, Salad and More Restaurant. Wifi’s fast and free, btw!

Creating a solo adventure happens once in a blue moon to a family man like me. It goes without saying that my wife and son are my priority and despite the fact we don’t have everything in life, we know how to count our blessings. And one of my greatest is not experiencing this extraordinary Chiang Mai trip but having a family that so unselfish and loving.

Chiang Mai Adventure to be continued.

*This is NOT a sponsored post.

If you like to experience the same tour package in Chiang Mai or avail of their other tour packages to suit your interests, contact :

Mr. Sakchai Ruenkam (Tour Operator) | Chiang Mai Travel Trail | +66 86 921 2335, +66 80 087 4802 | Email : chiangmaitraveltrail@windowslive.com | Website : www.chiangmaitraveltrail.com

Alternatively, you can contact their partner and the tourist guide we had on this trip, Mr. Oak’s Travel Agency, Journey Chiang Mai Tours via their website at www.journeycnx.com

*This Chiang Mai Blog Series includes :

>><<

Jan

CHIANG MAI SERIES : BEST WAY TO DISCOVER

By docgelo 19 Comments

Categories: FOOD & MORE FOOD!, MALAYSIA, THAILAND and TRAVEL
Tags: backpacking, backpacking asia, backpacking thailand, budget travel, cheap shopping, chiang mai, chiang mai blog, doc gelo, docgelo, enoki, expat, expatriate blog, expatriate blogger, food, food blog, food blogger, foodie, lifestyle, lifestyle blog, lifestyle blogger, market, must see in chiang mai, must see in thailand, night market, night markets, noodles, ocw, ofw, overseas blog, overseas blogger, pad thai, places to go in chiang mai, shopping, solo travel, southeast asia, tha phae gate, tha phae gate chiang mai, thai cuisines, thai food, thailand tourism, things to do in chiang mai, things to do in thailand, travel blog, travel blogger, vacation in chiang mai, what to do in chiang mai, what to eat in chiang mai, what to see in thailand, where to eat in chiang mai, where to shop in chiang mai, where to shop in thailand

Arguably, the best way to discover a place is to explore its public market. It’s a common venue where tourists and travelers casually commune with the local people and find their food and commodities that more often than not, represent a slice of their culture and lifestyle. Whenever I get a chance to bring my feet to a town or city that’s new to my senses, a planned or otherwise visit to a palengke, mercado, marche or pasar always makes a trip worthwhile. And what I did immediately after I checked in to my guesthouse in Chiang Mai wasn’t an exception.

Luck was on my side when I found out that A Little Bird Guesthouse is just a stone’s throw away from the main road in downtown Chiang Mai. After a few steps from the narrow alley where that backpackers’ favorite is located, this park at the middle of the road greeted me.

Tuk tuk as King of the roads. This must be Thailand!

Before I rode a tuk tuk en route to the market that was recommended to me by the one managing the guesthouse, I strolled my way to this Wat or temple.

My first sighting of the image of the Enlightened One in this part of Thailand.

And His people who best know the importance of being stress-free doing what else but Tai chi!

Walk, walk, walk…

It was almost past 6PM and this part of Asia had the sun still shining! Just like in Malaysia, it’s amazing!
Saw a handicraft store that’s very usual in my part of the globe.

Then I came back to the main road and hopped on this tuk tuk. Meet my first ride in Chiang Mai…

Off we goooooo!

For 60 baht or 6 ringgit (USD 2), the friendly old driver took me to the near end of Chiang Mai Night Bazaar in Chiang Khlan Road called Anusarn Market. The ride took around 20 minutes but was not a problem to me for my eyes enjoyed what they saw.

Without a map at hand and no research on the place prior to the trip, I really thought the first market I saw was the Anusarn itself until the tuk tuk driver continued to drive amidst the Thai traffic.

Every corner of each street and alley is picturesque! Shot this while inside the tuk tuk..

At last, Anusarn Market!

Spotted these colored foldable plastic lanterns; I liked it for being so light and handy; notice its packaging? I passed it up for I was so conscious of my limited budget.

Low cost everything is what Anusarn Market boasts of. If you’re a Filipino, you’ll feel its Divisoria-like appeal!

Admittedly, I didn’t come to this market to shop but more so to EAT. I was told at the guesthouse that authentic and cheap Thai dishes are best eaten here so I went. First restaurant I saw was this Seafood something. I chickened out prior to flipping a sample of its menu at its entrance. I was allergic at steep prices at that time.

I gazed at its right side and I was attracted to eat there. More spacious, open air, looked more affordable and delicious.

The view from where I sat…

And here’s my first set of authentic Thai meal from Chiang Mai…

Green Papaya Salad, Pork Satay, Pad Thai. Mango Juice. Nagutom po ako sa layo ng biyahe! Paid THB 300 (30 ringgit or USD 10) for everything. I was so hungry that everything tasted good. It was already dusk when I finished everything.

I roamed around and checked the stalls. I saw these Northern Thailand hats handcrafted by hilltribes. I almost bought a piece but I told myself to hold on to my pocket. I ended up buying one for Gabby from a refugee in the village I visited the next day.

I didn’t shop anything at Anusarn and the night market close to it except a handmade sling bag for 170 baht that I used during my short stay in Chiang Mai. I bought a few souvenirs for Tina and Gabby somewhere else. Nonetheless, my eyes and camera feasted on what they saw…

Can anyone identify these yarn-looking dolls? Are they used for witchcraft? lol

Cute Jack Sparrow.

If only Gabby has little baby sister…

Cool handmade robots…

Girls must like these. Are they pillbox or what?

Amidst all commercialism, poverty still exists.

Moving on. Thai massage, anyone?

Must be relaxing from all the walking and shopping…

I headed to the main road and hailed tuk tuk again. Dropped by Tesco convenience store and bought bread and a liter of distilled water before walking back to my guesthouse. Along the way, I saw these adult-themed Thai art works on a wall. What can I say? Ahhhhhhrtistic!

That ended my first day in Chiang Mai. I started my 4D3N in this city by going to Anusarn Market and likewise, I wrapped up everything by spending my last night at another palengke, the Tha Phae Gate Night Market.

This brick-walled gate located at the center of the main road is also a walking-distance to where I stayed in Chiang Mai. In short, access was hassle-free. And because it was few days before welcoming the New Year, the Tha Phae Night Market was beaming with all its glory.

The father in me melted when I saw this.

While this Saturday Night Market serves as work place to some, it’s a cheap shopping paradise to everyone…

Arts for sale. I want! But never dared to ask the price.

There was a stage and a program that made the mood in Tha Phae Gate even more festive!

I spent my last day in Chiang Mai the best way I know how. It was a FOOD PORN night for me!

Thrilled with EXOTIC food? Crocodile perhaps?

What about Deer or Ostrich? Thank God, they’re labelled honestly.

I almost gave in to these New Zealand mussels and Razor Clams…

Until I craved for another dose of Pad Thai…

After all, I never eat too much of this noodle dish when I’m out of Thailand, therefore INDULGE!

My last meal in the Rose of the North : Pad Thai, Bacon Wrapped Enoki, all washed down with fresh Coconut juice!

If shopping in Chiang Mai could not seduce you, eating Thai food would definitely lure you.

*This Chiang Mai Blog Series includes :

>><<

Jan

CHIANG MAI SERIES : DRAGONS WITH COILS

By docgelo 35 Comments

Categories: ILOVEPHOTOS, THAILAND and TRAVEL
Tags: TRAVEL, traveling, beauty, culture, Life, doc gelo, docgelo, tradition, photography, travel blog, travel blogger, myanmar, southeast asia, traditions, national geographic, expat blog, lifestyle blog, thailand tourism, overseas blog, lifestyle blogger, must visit in thailand, penang to hat yai, penang to bangkok, must see in thailand, thailand blog, chiang mai, chiang mai thailand, backpacking southeast asia, solo backpacking, portraits, people, long necked women, long neck women, tribes from myanmar, women from burma, tribespeople from burma, refugees, refufees from burma, backpacking asia, penang to chiang mai, beautiful women, kayan tribe, padaung, padaung women, hill tribes in thailand, refugees from burma in thailand, karen long neck women, must visit in chiang mai, must visit in southeast asia, burma, neck rings, long necked women in thailand, what to see in thailand, things to do in chiang mai, places to visit in thailand, where to go in chiang mai, things to do in thailand, chiang mai blog, where to go in thailand, what to do in asia, what to do in southeast asia, places to visit in chiang mai

After I greeted,“Hello!” and asked her name that slipped my poor memory, this old woman of Kayan, a refugee tribe from Myanmar whose age is beyond 60s, displayed the faintest smile and teary eyes. Her reactions were almost infectious. She’s one of those called by lowland Burmese as Padaung women or long necked. They wear spiral metal coils of many turns on their necks for believing that like dragons and swans, having long necks is beautiful.

I continued to start a short conversation by asking the prices of the souvenir items she sells, she replied with the least audible voice. She exuded weariness and a pleasant lassitude as she tried to make a living that day. I bought one of her purple woven scarves as a souvenir for my wife. I even dared to haggle for 180 baht instead of 200; my biggest regret in this recent trip.

This was our Thai tour guide, Mr. Oak in blue shirt leading the way to the so called-Long Neck Women village.

Before I went to Chiang Mai, I read the worst and unpleasant descriptions written online by people who perceived this place negatively.

Human Zoo. Human Giraffe. Tourist Trap. Hostages to Tourism. Thailand Freak Show.

Perceptions are something subjective and beyond one’s control.

Listening to our tour guide’s explanation about these uniquely beautiful women provided us information of their origin and their past. Mr. Oak’s serious yet casual annotations that were candidly interrupted by his spontaneous humor made this trip more fascinating. While excitedly walking inside their village, Oak pointed a dog and called it, the long-neck-dog :p

Our group of 10-tourists from Australia, Japan, China, New Zealand and the Philippines (who’s currently based in Malaysia) learned that these coils were traditionally worn only by Padaung women as young as 5 or 6 years old. The long coils on the neck are an alloy of brass, silver and gold. It was noted that Kayan tribe women wear them not only to symbolize beauty like that of dragons and swans but as a protective measures from tigers, which are known to attack their preys on the neck.

I had no idea about the National Geographic’s feature on these Kayan-Padaung women. I only read about it on the comment-thread of my facebook friends under the photo I posted on fb. It was the team of NatGeo who subjected one of the Padaung women to cervical X-ray to medically determine if the neck bones were really stretched. Roentgenographic report showed that the seven vertebral bones on the neck remained the same in size, although the intervertebral disks absorbed additional fluid, it is their clavicles or collar bones that were compressed, lowered and collapsed by years of wearing those metallic neck rings, creating an illusion that the neck is elongated.

I don’t know about you but after spending almost an hour with them, these women earned my respect for they continue to practice their customs and traditions amidst the digital age and beyond being refugees to Thailand from Burma now called, Myanmar. It’s simply depressing that despite Thailand’s Tourism boosts with the visits of the tourists to see them, the Padaung women with their families still remain aliens with no papers in Thailand. And because of this, they’re not allowed (as of this blogging) to go down the city and sell their commodities.

Usually, they remove then add additional coils every after 3 to 10 years. They do not only wear the metal coils on their necks but also below the knees too.

I salute them for preserving their identity, cultures and beliefs despite and in spite of everything.

A family of Kayan…

They all flashed ready smiles when I politely asked if I can take their photos. This perhaps made the other people think that these women really are being used for Tourism.

By Padaung women’s tradition, girls born on a Wednesday of a full moon are required to wear the metal coils on their necks.

I found out by talking to them that these two are sisters but it saddened me to know that the elder sister stopped schooling to give way for the young one. Something that’s very common too in some Filipino rural settings.

I bought fridge magnets from them; they didn’t only smile but said, “Thank you!” which I appreciated because simple gratitude is a rarity nowadays.

The village also houses other tribes. This lady belongs to the so-called Akha. These women originally came from Yunnan province of China, Laos, and Myanmar who also migrated to Northen parts of Thailand -Chiang Mai and Chiang Rai. Their spectacular and elaborate headdresses made them pretty remarkable than the other hill tribes plus the fact that unlike the Kayan Long Neck Women, Akha people were granted legal papers to Thailand so they’re all free to roam around the city and sell their stuffs at night markets and everywhere without restrictions.

A refugee from China…

Another Chinese refugee with colorful and elaborate traditional dress worn with thick brass belt.

Of all the hill tribe women I met in that village, this particular one who chews betel nut, which probably unknown to her and her tribe, is carcinogenic or cancer-causing (Nasopharyngeal Cancer), greeted us in a very light and cheerful mood. Despite living the simplest life of no-gadgets and free from expensive possessions, she remain happy and carefree. Something I am reminded of. Something we all need to reflect on.

Joy in simple things. Contentment sans modern lifestyle.

From these young lady, I bought Gabby’s souvenir vibrant tribal hat, which my son wore in welcoming New Year at home.

There were tribal women who adorned themselves with metal coils and ornate headdresses, now meet the other women who consider having huge earring holes as remarkably wonderful.

Is that a smartphone on her hand?

Do they wear make up as part of tradition or for tourism? Do they wear neck rings only for money? Again, perception is subjective.

Meeting these women even only for brief chat and photo-ops reminded me of some of the most important things in life.

People with strong principles can really stand on their personal beliefs, can fight for their own traditions and can go against the dictate of others.

It was an unforgettable opportunity for me to briefly interact with these women in Chiang Mai. I considered myself blessed as I met, talked and sat beside one of the most beautiful dragons in the world.

“We can never judge the lives of others, because each person knows only their own pain and renunciation. It’s one thing to feel that you are on the right path, but it’s another to think that yours is the only path.”

— Paulo Coelho

*This Chiang Mai Blog Series includes :

>><<

Jan

CHIANG MAI SERIES : BEYOND BOUNDARIES

By docgelo 31 Comments

You will never understand how a solitary backpacking feels like unless you experienced it yourself. It might be dangerous and risky but you won’t learn your abilities to hurdle what seem like challenges until you take the first step.

December 26 -30, 2012. Words are unnecessary to explain why I left Tina & Gabby in our current home in Penang for 5 days and traveled alone to Chiang Mai. There’s no selfishness in the intent but gratitude for understanding. I initially asked my wife if she’s interested in going with all three of us; the casual response I got was a verbal permit to travel solo. She knew I wanted to experience solo backpacking. Sweet! While I have been used to going to places with my own family for 9 years now, it’s a uniquely beautiful gift when people you love most provide you the wings to explore new grounds, discover new cultures and appreciate your own days.

Travelers and tourists may take a train from Singapore to Kuala Lumpur to Hat Yai and Bangkok on a single journey. Then transfer to another train or bus to Chiang Mai (or any parts of Thailand). I didn’t take the train; here’s my route :

From Point A : Penang Sentral Bus Station in Butterworth to Point B : Hat Yai Bus Terminal was about 4 hour trip via mini-van including the Immigration procedures of exit from Malaysian border and entry to Thailand border.

From Point B : Hat Yai Bus Terminal to Point C : Mo Chit Bus Station in Bangkok was 14 hour-night-trip on a VIP bus.

Point C : Mo Chit Station to Don Mueang Airport in Bangkok to Point D : Chiang Mai International Airport was around 1 hour flight.

This was my very first solo backpacking trip and God knows if it will be the last.

December 26, 2012, Wednesday. At 7.30AM via Rapid Penang Bus, I left our 11th floor apartment in Butterworth, Penang with my laptop bag, DSLR camera and a backpack in tow. The public bus that usually takes Tina and I to work took me to Penang Sentral Bus Station after 10 minutes. Barely an hour after, I asked the dispatcher of the busliner where I bought my ticket to Hat Yai about the arrival of the mini-van; she said, it’ll come in a while. True enough, I found myself inside a 10-seater-van with 4 other passengers en route to the borders of two Southeast Asian Countries.

Although my family and I miss everything about our country, the Philippines, I personally consider myself lucky to be based for more than two years now in Northern part of Malaysia where Thailand is so accessible (not to mention we also enjoyed going to Singapore which is at Malaysian’s Southern tip via bus from Penang). My family and I crossed the borders and return more than a couple of times. However, this post-Christmas trip was so different for I was lone but not lonely.

Penang to Hat Yai City proper is roughly 4 hours. The mini-vans that take passengers from Penang to Hat Yai usually have an obligatory few-minute-stopover at a food-toilet-forex-complex in a place so near the Malaysia border called Changloon and this trip was not an exception. In Changloon, driver asked our passports for him to prepare and type-write our Departure-Arrival cards. This service was included in the 32 ringgit or USD 10.51 mini-van fare. While he was doing that, I was busy stuffing my tummy with brunch. I ordered two plates for I left home without having breakfast. It was carbohydrate-loading for me that late morning; I had my favorites although I dare say Penang’s versions of these dishes are incomparably delicious, Changloon’s don’t even come close.

Nasi Goreng Cina.

Char Koay Teow.

Exiting Malaysia was a breeze.

Likewsie entering Thailand for someone like me who’s a holder of Philippine passport stamped with Employment Pass in Malaysia was hassle-free, as my country of origin and these nations are all members of ASEAN, simply putting it - No Visa required.

Drizzle greeted me on the road to Hat Yai.

I reminded myself that Thailand is an hour late than Malaysian and Philippine times. Literally that is. I didn’t need to adjust my wrist watch but I had efforts to be conscious.

At 11:29AM Thailand time, I purchased my bus ticket directly from this counter at the Hat Yai Bus Terminal. My ticket from Hat Yai to Bangkok cost me THB 1,162 or USD 38.19 because I opted to take the VIP bus where dinner and other stuffs are included in the fare. It was the same bus liner my family and I rode from Bangkok to Hat Yai last August 2012.

The VIP bus was schedule to leave Hat Yai at 4PM, Thailand time. So it was 4 hours of waiting for me. There goes my backpack that doubles as a duffel bag too and my laptop bag sitting pretty on a bench with that tame street dog on the floor.

Wifi’s free at Hat Yai Bus Station. Must update facebook status.

I checked in and shouted on facebook :

The pink double-decker-Hat Yai-Bangkok bus arrived early than expected.

I was seated at B1 -located on the first seat at the upper deck. It provided me more leg room and comfort for a good night sleep.

I told you it’s a VIP bus, so on my seat, I found the same things that amused Tina, Gabby and I last year when we all revisited Bangkok. There were bottled water, guava juice in tetra pack, 2 pastries, wet ones and pack of coffee, creamer and sugar in a box and a laundried and sealed blanket.

The seal’s more like a security for me.

I was ready to sleep in the middle of my 14 hour-trip from 4PM to 6 the following morning when the bus made a mandatory stop for dinner at this familiar Thai restaurant at around 9PM.

Passengers only needed to present the bus ticket for the dinner (included in the fare). As mentioned, it was not my first time to take this route but my main concern remained the same. I was worried about sanitation, food preparation and handling. You cannot blame me of course but thank goodness, I didn’t suffer from Traveller’s Diarrhea or any infections yet. God is alive!
Six of us sat in one table and dishes with rice were served. There were many choices and I sampled them all. Brought my feet to the toilet for bladder break and brushed my teeth after.

Highways from Hat Yai to Bangkok weren’t bumpy so I had a restful sleep with hyperextended legs under the sheets.

December 27, 2012. Thursday. 6AM. I arrived in one piece at Mo Chit Bus Station in Bangkok. Rise and shine, Bangkok!!! We meet again!

What I shouted in facebook was partly wrong; it should’ve been 14-hour-trip instead of 11. I miscalculated; a proof I hate numbers!

Immediately, I hailed a taxi cab and reached Don Mueang International Airport in Bangkok after 20 minute-ride.

After observing my morning rituals, I managed to freshen up and change my clothes. Have I told you that I only traveled with no shoes but a pair of 3-year-old-dependable slippers? Comfort at its best!

I ate the pack of pastries as my first bites that morning and looked for a spot to while away time until my 1:30PM flight to Chiang Mai. I first sat on one of the waiting lounges and since I did not have anyone to rely on, I went several times to the toilet to void with all my bags and all. It’s an inevitable downside of solo traveling, of course.

I was smiling widely after I found my feet on this tranquil area of the terminal. It’s the Observation deck located at the 2nd floor of the Departure area. It was too perfect for me to kill time as it also has its own toilet. I spent hours of waiting here then I realized I should have brought a good read! I promised myself never to leave home for a travel without a good book; nevertheless I savored my quiet time here.

At around 11AM, I went down, checked the monitor for the flight updates and decided to go to the Boarding Area.

Thank God for airports with good food!

The traditional me chose Starbucks Coffee for my brunch.

This is the eye-catching huge monitor that puts images of passers-by into various famous spots in the globe from Paris to New York to London. I saw a lot of passengers stop to take photo-ops. I found watching people more fun than watching myself on the screen.

Boarding time was few minutes past 1PM at Gate 31. Air Asia flight Bangkok to Chiang Mai.

Seat belt fastened.

And up we went! It has been years since I last sat by the window. I was like a kid again enjoying the sea of clouds!

Less than an hour later, we safely arrived in this Thai City called The Rose of the North.

My first glimpse of the arrival area of Chiang Mai International Airport was not roses but orchids. Lots of them!

So many varieties of orchids from the airport to the streets of Chiang Mai; what a lovely sight!

Maps are essential I know. I took two copies but funny I didn’t bother to scan at least during the entire trip. I also didn’t bring any guidebook with me. It was more like carefree adventure!

Chiang Mai is truly inviting!

No airport pick up/transfer for me as I went on this backpacking trip on a budget.

Upon exiting the airport, I took a taxi cab for 20 minutes and THB 150 (USD 4.90) to my guesthouse.

Drum roll, please! Welcome everyone to where I stayed for 4D3N in Chiang Mai! This backpackers’ paradise is called A Little Bird Guesthouse. I became one of their “birdies” for few nights, lol!

Tucked within the city center in Chiang Mai where travel agencies, pharmacies, restaurants, hawker stalls, night markets, massage parlors and spas, internet shops and a volume of temples that spring like mushrooms, A Little Bird Guesthouse is one of the favorites among backpackers who troop to this part of Thailand. I discovered it by googling and reading reviews on Tripadvisor. It’s location isn’t only accessible to almost everything but a secured and safe place too.

After hopping off the taxi cab, I entered the reception office and checked in. Since I made a reservation via their website but was not issued a voucher, the young and friendly lady at the counter named, Fai asked me to show their email-confirmation about my booking and so I did.

I was given a key to the dormitory and was led to my designated room at A Little Bird Guesthouse 2 (yes, the front building is named, ALBG 1, and I was assigned to a room at the newer building called ALBG 2; they expanded, business must have been good!).

On my way to my dorm, I saw bikes rented from shops outside this guesthouse.

Almost all corners of this compound serve as interaction-areas for backpackers. I noted nice and quiet atmosphere amongst guests.

Universe, meet my bed. This was my name tag and my Thai name is ”AngeRo” instead of Angelo, *kidding*. No harm done actually.

I was assigned at the upper deck of this double-decker bed. Good luck to the bed! In all fairness, it remained intact the entire time I was there, climbing up and down! My weight wasn’t enough to break it! Yay!!! It was built for heavier foreigners, I guess. The bed below was occupied by German backpacker named, Katya.

I shared a room with 5 backpackers. So there’s Katya- the German lady, Amber the American lady, Jason the American guy, Andre the British guy and another German-long-haired backpacker guy whose name slipped my memory! Sorry.

I forgot to bring a key for the lockers, I needed to buy on the streets. No airconditioning units but wall fans which were good enough! At 100 baht per night, I wasn’t expecting a 5-star-accomodation of course! Toilet and shower with heater, mind you, is located after that open space near the sink.

Wifi was fast and more importantly free or included in the 100 THB or USD 3.28 per night accomodation. I could not complain! I chose to stay at this 6 pax per dormitory instead of their 10 pax per room.

After buying small pair of padlock & keys, I kept my laptop, passport, camera (during sleep) and other things inside a locker that was perfectly built to store them!

My 4D3N stay amounting to 300 baht or USD 9.85 only was all in all, safe and pleasant. I got a long well with my roommates; managed conversations before retiring after a day’s wandering.

Checked in and shouted on facebook again…

It was a great first-time-experience staying at this backpackers’ favorite! I highly recommend it if you’re traveling to Chiang Mai on a budget.

Few minutes after check-in, I began exploring Chiang Mai.

Last facebook check in and shout for the day :

*This Chiang Mai Blog Series includes :

*Map sourced from www.maps.google.com

>><<

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

WEEKLY PHOTO CHALLENGE : RESOLVED

By docgelo 21 Comments

Categories: ILOVEPHOTOS, THAILAND and TRAVEL
Tags: amateur photography, asia, chiang mai, chiang mai thailand, children, culture, doc gelo, docgelo, nikon, nikon D7000, photography, photos, postaday, resolved, southeast asia, thai culture, thailand, TRAVEL, travel blog, travel blogger, traveling, weekly photo challenge

I don’t usually make New Year’s Resolution for I believe changes may be done regardless of the season. But as for my love for traveling and being a photo-enthusiast, I wish to experience and discover and explore more places that I’ve never been to.

This photo was taken on my recent travel to Chiang Mai; my very first solo backpacking-budget trip.

My Chiang Mai Blog Series soon on this site.

This is my entry to Weekly Photo Challenge : Resolved

Posts Tagged ‘docgelo

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