There are some of the shots I Got while roaming around the Ancient Brick paved streets of Bhaktapur Nepal , April 2014.
The Laid back Charm of Bhaktapur, Nepal
Author: iamjosemanuel
Hi. I am Joseph Emmanuel E. Lim, a Licensed Architect by profession and an avid traveler by heart. My passion for travel has been greatly influenced by the profession that I a practice. Since my college days, I always had this fondness of the old world, of historic places, of ancient civilizations, and the intrigues and mysteries that come with it.
As a traveler, I consider myself a typical backpacker. My trips are low-cost and mostly solo, independent travel. I started my fondness for backpacking the year 2013, when I explored Southeast Asia for 30 days. Since then, It has become my goal to travel at least once a year, to a foreign city/country that I have never been before. I also made a goal to complete the 7 wonders of the world before I reach 40 years of age. But then, the pandemic came. So I might have to extend my timeline for that.
As a backpacker, I prefer small and laid-back towns over party destinations. I like waking up early for a stroll around public market and see how foreign communities start up their day. As of today, I have been to 46 UN recognized countries.
Café Hopping in Hongdae, Seoul
Probably one of the best time I had in Seoul was the chillax “No Particular Go See” day. We woke up a bit late and just spent the morning in our backpackers’ lounge to chit chat with other guests. In the afternoon, we went strolling on Seoul’s university belt near Hongdae , which also has a lot of bookstores, quaint shops and boutiques. The afternoon ended up into a Cafe Hopping experience.
Koreans are quite fancy with their Coffee and pastries . Interiors are fun, tastefully embellished and usually interactive , as there are corners and boards where you can post your sketches and thoughts or anything that comes in mind to leave something by.
Here are some of the quirky Cafe’s we’ve visited in Hongdae , and all over Seoul .
Coffee Prince , Hongdae – where the Kpop TV Series was shot , famous to Filipinos and other Asians. A bit pricey around 4.5 USD per cup, but its worth the money for Yoon Eun-hye fan like me. haha . Coffee was so-so. Cheescake was great. Ambiance was awesome !
Hello Kitty Cafe , Hongdae – Just for Fun. haha
https://foursquare.com/v/hello-kitty-cafe/4c904694352da1cd9f9110b2
Cats Living Here Cafe, just a stone throw away from Hello Kitty Cafe . The whole loft is a play pen for cats and is heaven for Cat lovers . This place is actually a foster home for cats, and customers can also bring with them their loves to play and socialize with other cats, which is cool ! Truly, the korean owner is doing this out of passion =) Entrance fee to the loft is 8000 won (around 7 USD , and that includes a fix ). My friends were not into cats so they had to leave me here for an hour while they go shop hopping.
Baus Haus Dog Cafe , near Hapjeong Station . This time a heaven for Dog lovers ! This place is a foster home, and is also day care center for dogs when people go on vacation.
The Rooftop Cafe at Ssamziegil Shopping Center, Insadong . With it quirky Ambiance and a great view at the Deck .
https://foursquare.com/v/%EC%8C%88%EC%A7%80%EA%B8%B8-ssamzigil/4be3950f1dd22d7f5c2e97bd
Tous les Jours , Myeongdong . Heavenly Sandwiches !
Baskin and Robbins . Great ice cream , fun and quirky cake pieces , practically located everywhere in Seoul .
My Travelogue Postcards 2013
Here are some Postcards of places visited and experiences encountered personally by me.
I am personally not much of a writer , nor a professional photographer, but these compilation of shots are my treasure and I shall let them speak for the beauty I came across through travelling.
Copyright 2013 iamjosemanuel
Copyright 2013 iamjosemanuel
Copyright 2013 iamjosemanuel
Copyright 2013 iamjosemanuel
Copyright 2013 iamjosemanuel
Copyright 2013 iamjosemanuel
Copyright 2013 iamjosemanuel
Copyright 2013 iamjosemanuel
Copyright 2013 iamjosemanuel
Copyright 2013 iamjosemanuel
Copyright 2013 iamjosemanuel
Copyright 2013 iamjosemanuel
Copyright 2013 iamjosemanuel
Eat Korean Food like an Emperor
Probably the largest share of expense during my travel to Seoul went to satisfy my tastebuds and fill my tummy. Personally , I believe that it’s ok to spend a little extra on food; After all, its not like every month, you are in Seoul to enjoy real authentic Korean cooking.
Trip to Seoul , October 23 to November 3, 2012 .
The Sense of Travelling
Growing up, I have always been interested with world history and different ways of culture. I always had this uptight aspiration to go to places outside my familiar land. And as soon as I began to work and earn right, I immediately got myself a passport , and started to plot my dream of experiencing the richness of our world , one country at a time. I just started actually.
What’s good with Travelling?
Travelling is more than just about leisure. Personally, I take this as a vessel to improve the way I see things and on how I relate to other people of different backgrounds. Travelling improves both verbal and non verbal communication skills.
Self Improvement
Travelling adds up to your self worth and confidence. My stories and personal experiences while travelling, somehow made me, a more interesting person in a way.
A sense of Freedom
I grew up as a dependent person who never made my own decision . Traveling, living abroad on my own, exposed me to different societies and different circumstances requiring me to make important decisions. It developed in me somehow, freedom.
Present your Country
You enjoy sharing with fellow travellers your beautiful experiences from the countries you have visited. And of course, in travel , you get the chance to boast your own nation and culture , what makes your people special and worthy to become your fellow travellers’ next destination.
New Ideas
Travelling for me is a good way to get ideas for various interesting day to day matters; Personally, I always make an effort to visit a public market of the city I am visiting, preferably in the morning , to experience how a foreign community start up their day. Also, Public markets are where you can find exquisite local products, see different ways of preparing food , and also , on how they design spaces with respect to their climate.
The sense of Growing
As much as it may sound cheesy, but with each destination, you grow. You learn the best ways to pack, meet new people of different nationalities and make lasting friendship, get around on cities with rules and practices different from your home country, and you learn to survive.
Travelling Makes History Come Alive
Ever since a child, I have always been fascinated with history, architecture and the ancient way of living. I took up BS Architecture in college, and I best enjoyed those days when we are asked to draw the significant architectures of various nations. Modesty aside, I even got the highest score for a certain Visual Presentation of Indochina Architecture; A sketch of Angkor Wat included.
Recalling last August 2013 when I was about to enter the actual grounds of Angkor Wat minutes after sunrise… that feeling was priceless !!!!
Solo Backpacking Essentials
I always had this fondness for solo backpacking, and I am fully aware of the consequences and risks of traveling alone, especially on foreign land where everything is relatively unfamiliar. As such, I always make a point to prepare my thoughts and do a lot of readings and inquiries before I the trip. Here are my basic preparations. Hope this would help.
1. Research .
-Read blogs . I prefer inquiring on blogs and personal accounts of experienced backpackers who already traveled my eyed destination. rather than just reading wikipedia and travel websites.
– Know the route . Steps in Border crossing. Airport to city center transportation . know where the backpackers area is. download google map,, use walking direction tools just to have an idea.
– Research on country specific entry Visa , if applicable.
– know which tourist spots are worthy of a visit, because you don’t really have to see everything. Read a bit of history of the place. You will appreciate your visiting experience more when you know what made it happen.
2. Exchange currency ahead of time. especially when traveling by land, since border crossings and bus transportation require local bills . If u use dollars, you might not get any change.
3. A backpack of basic essentials.
– Pack lite . If you are traveling for a month, pack clothes that is good for 2 weeks. You can just have them washed at the middle of your trip . Some backpackers Ive met only brings very few clothes, and prefer to buy cheap ones at their destination.
– cargo pants and Cargo shorts . preferably dark colors so it wont get dirty easily.
– Bring a small , quick dry towel. Bath Towels are usually available with the hostels . If not, then you just have to make full use of what you have.
– Bring a small pillow ,preferably a neck pillow, which is very helpful especially on bus trips.
– medicine pack. particularly for tummy upset and pain relievers.
– sun block and Anti mosquito lotion – small bottle or sachet (because 100 ml bottles and up , might be confiscated in the airport )
–
4. Comfortable footwear.
1 pair of rubber shoes , preferably the one you use often. New shoes might give you blisters which can be very hassle.
I don’t bring slippers anymore, I prefer to buy them on markets , if necessary .
5. A wifi enabled – smart phone . not only for communication ,, but more for researches and google mapping by the time you get there. Hotels usually have wifi for guests .
– end of list –
Can anyone make recommendations on how you prepare your trips ?
Nam Song River in Vang Vieng, Laos
The town of Vang Vieng is the main reason why I was drawn to visit Laos.
Vang Vieng is known for its beautiful landscape of tall Karst hills surrounding the small town, which is seated at the banks of Nam Song (Mekong) River. Vang Vieng became famous to travellers, particularly the young party goers, during the year 2005 onwards, for its riverbank bars , extreme parties and drunks drifting themselves on tubes down the river. Until the last quarter of 2012 when the parties already brought too much hazard and accidents , that the Lao government decided to cease the trend.
Today, Vang Vieng without the parties, may be considered a boring destination for many. But to some , including myself , Vang Vieng of today was brought back to its small town beauty ; humble, relaxing atmosphere , beautiful landscape by the river , where one can enjoy local beer and just sit by the river on a lazy afternoon.
Woke up early one morning to check on the streets and the Market.
People these days visit Vang vieng to do Mountain trekking, kayaking, caving and tubing, which is what I exactly did . All that activity including lunch and transportation for only 12 USD . Drifting down the Nam Song river surrounded by the Karst Hill landscape was pretty amazing , and is by far the best part of my Indochina Backpacking Trip.
Travelling to Vang Vieng from the Lao Capital, Vientiane by Van/Mini bus can be arranged with your hostel for only 35,000 kips (4.5 USD) with hotel pick up. You may opt to travel with a local bus from the terminal at the city market , for a cheaper price (an a lot of stops) , but the Van arrangement is more convenient and relatively practical.
Travel is a scenic 4 hours ride. Road is a bit bumpy on some parts. But hey! I am from the Philippines , so I should be used to bumpy roads and not complain about it. =)
Laid Back Charm of Vientiane, Laos
The country of Laos, officially referred as Lao People’s Democratic Republic, is a landlocked country in Southeast Asia, bordered by Vietnam to the east, Burma and China to the northwest, Cambodia to the south, and Thailand to the west, as divided by the Mekong River. As a landlocked nation, Laos greatly depends commerce and trade with its neighbouring giants.
Laos is among the few nations today that run on communist rule, to which has only opened its doors to global trade and tourism during the 1990’s . As compared to its neighbours, Laos is less dynamic and is still on the process of coping with the demands of modernity ; we at least for the moment.
Vientiane is the capital city of Laos . Though the nation’s the biggest, this city is less modernized, with no railways and no malls , less noise and traffic , with a lot of patches of green. The central market is still the city’s source of almost everything.
I arrived to this laid back city on a Sunday afternoon, and I was eased to see that locals enjoying the parks and open spaces, and playing a sepak takraw like game. A number of tourists freely enjoy roaming the streets on bike . Vientiane was definitely a breathe of relaxing atmosphere.
Laos is not much visited by Filipinos as compared to other ASEAN nations. In my five days stay, I have not heard of a single Tagalog phrase , I was a few times asked if I were Thai or Chinese. I definitely felt the foreign atmosphere in this Country.
I Explored the nearby night market for local food. They do a lot of grilling and sun drying . This red meat on a ring is like dehydrated seasoned pork , covered with sesame seeds.
I personally think that Lao food is influenced by Chinese , less the flair and artful preparation, since Laos is farther up the mountainous side of Indochina Peninsula.
Chinese food and lifestyle definitely made an influence neighbouring countries in Southeast Asia. But with the route I travelled, I have observed that the farther the country is from China, the simpler the food becomes.
One fine morning in Vientiane , I woke up at 5:30 am to check out the nearby Talao Sat Public Market , which is the city’s center for trade .
It is always a priority of mine to visit public markets whenever I go places, because it is where one finds cheaper souvenirs, and authentic cooking. But more to that, public markets are less trendy and more on the local atmosphere, which gives visitors an interesting vibe on how the foreign community starts up its day.
Thailand – Laos Border Crossing
Visiting Laos was not originally part of my Indochina backpacking trip . I have not known much about it before, as compared to the touristy Vietnam, and the Heritage Sites in Cambodia. But I came across http://mylovelylife88.wordpress.com ‘s visit to the small town of Vang Vieng in Central Laos, and my thoughts immediately got caught by the town’s Karst limestone hills standing tall by the soft flowing river. Laos was once under strict communist rule, and it was only during the mid 90’s that Laos has fully opened its doors to tourism.
Thus decided to allot a few days to see Laos, and it was a good thing that getting there is just an overnight train away from Bangkok.
Below is my detailed travel from Bangkok, Thailand to Vientiane, capital of Laos.
From Hualamphong Train Station , Bangkok , I booked a second class , aircon sleeper train for 688 baht ( around 22 USD ) to Nong Khai ( Thai border point to Laos ) . Cheaper non-aircon train seats (No bed) are also available for around half the price. Hualamphong Station is pretty organized and the officers converse in English. Train left Bangkok around 8pm, and arrived at Nongkhai train station around 9 am the next day. The train made very few quick stops on towns, but Nongkhai is the last stop, so it would be impossible to miss this.
Further information about the trip can be read at http://www.seat61.com/Laos.htm#.UltK69Jcy0c
Nongkhai station also has an immigration office of Thailand. After clearing with Thai immigration, I transferred to another train headed to Thanaleng Station,Laos for 20 baht. It was a 20 minute train travel that crosses Mekong River.Another option to cross borders is by bus, since train schedules to Laos are very limited as of this year(2013). Upon arriving at Thanaleng Station, you will immediately see the Lao immigration counters.
- The transfer train from Nong Khai , Thailand, to Thanaleng , Laos. only 20 Baht . around 20 minutes ride.
Thanaleng Station is located 15 kms to Vientiane capital of Laos , around 30 minutes travel time. There are a number taxis/vans to the capital that can be shared with fellow travellers. We got ours for 400 baht , at 100 baht per person, since there were 4 of us who shared. I shared with 3 Thai nationals.
And there I was in the capital city of Vientiane, Laos ; laid back, less noisy , not much traffic, ,no big shopping malls. The country embodies a relaxed atmosphere and a perfect view of sunset by the Mekong.
Bangkok Street Scene
Bangkok probably has the quirkiest and most interesting street scene in all Southeast Asian Countries. From its intricately designed palaces and temples, stretchy street markets and shopping districts, cheap tropical fruits and local cuisines, to extreme sights such as prank toys openly sold on sidewalks , deep fried insect delicacies , lots of out and loud lady boys, and all night long partying at Khaosan Road. Bangkok streets will never go boring .
I Stayed at Rambuttri Road, one of Bangkok’s backpackers area where affordable hostels and guesthouses are located, with price ranging from 200-400 baht (6-12 usd) per person. Rambuttri Road, is located in Bangkok’s historic Rattanakosin District and is a walking distance to the palace, museums and buddhist temples , and is also just 2 blocks away from the famous party street, Khaosan Road.
Bangkok’s Suvarnabhumi Intl. Airport is 60 – 90 minutes travel by Taxi to the city center , and the city’s railway system do not reach Bangkok’s old district where most backpackers area are located . Metered taxi fare can go as high as 450 baht, per way (12 usd) . The most convenient way to get to Rambuttri Road and Khaosan Road from the airport is by shared taxi/van arranged by travel agencies, for 100 baht / person (3 usd) . Shared taxi/van are just outside the airport and the the english speaking tourist information center at the arrival area can talk you through this. Public bus may be cheap, but could be very confusing for first timers.
Below are some snapshots I took on my three days visit to Bangkok last September 2013 . It was my second time to visit the country so this time I just passed by the usual tourist spots. This trip was more on checking the city streets and enjoying what local Thais do and indulge on .
Cambodia – Thailand Border Crossing
Siem Reap, Cambodia and Bangkok, Thailand are probably the two most visited and most interesting cities in Indo-China Peninsula , and given enough days, visiting these two cities in one vacation is possible since they are just around 5-6 hours direct travel ( 400 kms.) on lean days (not much immigration cue) , and border crossing is relatively easy.
There are several options when travelling to Bangkok from Siem Reap, depending on ones preferred time schedule and budget. Below are some of the usual options done by backpackers . Hope this would help.
The cheapest way is to have several transfers (Bus+Tuktuk+Train) which only costs around 16 USD , exclusive of Visas if required. See http://www.seat61.com/Cambodia.htm#Siem Reap for detailed Information.
Speedboats can also take you from one city to another for 35 to 40 USD, which is probably the most scenic and adventurous option that makes it worth the pay.
The easiest way to travel between these cities is with Nattakan Direct Bus Lines which has just been launched Feb 2013 . Be aware that some travel agencies in Siem Reap would recommend a different direct bus to Bangkok, when in fact you would still be transferring to another bus when you get to Thailand. Nattakan Bus Line is the only public bus recognized and allowed by government of both nations to take passengers directly between the two cities.
For convenience and to avoid touts and hassle , I took this Bus trip for 28 , USD , inclusive of AM Snack , Coffee , packed lunch and water. All passengers are given an ID for the trip.
Do note that there are No Visa fees for Filipinos and and other Aseans when crossing these borders , and Thailand is kind enough not to collect minimal entry fees, unlike when entering Cambodia and Laos.
Thai Immigration is just around 150 meters walk from Cambodian Immigration, and you will notice large hotels and casinos at the Cambodian side. Gambling is illegal in Thailand.
After clearing with Thai immigration at Aranyaprathet , the bus loads up all the registered passengers , then head directly to Bangkok . No more bus stops since the bus also has a comfort room . Travel time took around 8 hours , including immigration stop overs and an hour traffic we got when we entered Bangkok.
Angkor Wat Solo Day Tour
My Visit to Angkor Wat Complex has somewhat put to reality the days when we used to research and detail this temple for our History of Architecture Subject. More than Just a sacred Religious Site for Buddhist , Angkor Wat is a showcase of early mankind’s craftsmanship and ingenuity, making it one of Man’s greatest Architectural Masterpieces . On my first morning in Siem Reap, I rented a tuktuk for $ 19 USD that i could catch the temple as the sun rises behind its towers and perfect symmetry. At 4:30 am , Indeed, it was amazing!
Angkor Complex is around 20 minutes ride from the city. It would have been cheaper if I knew how to ride a bike since they can be rented for only 3 USD. Entrance fee to the complex is 20 USD. You get an ID Pass with your picture in it.
I did not book a guide to talk me though the temples but I made brief researches on its history, and also the maps and brochures I got from Angkor Museum were helpful.
Any hotel can help you get one.
The Angkor Wat Main Building ,
The biggest and most well preserved. While generally considered a temple for worship, some expert say this was built as a tomb , because of its west orientation.
The Bayon in Angkor Thom,
one of the most widely recognised temple in Siem Reap because of the giant stone faces that adorn the towers. Built in the late 12th or early 13th century as the official state temple of the Mahayana Buddhist King Jayavarman VII, the Bayon stands at the centre of Jayavarman’s capital, Angkor Thom.
The Ta Prohm
Strangely beautiful as it has been taken over by the jungle , and minimal restoration has been done to maintain its atmosphere of of trees growing out of the ruins. This is the most dramatic of all Khmer Temples .
After I visited the lesser temples , I asked my tuktuk driver to take me back to the main Angkor Wat to see the sunset. But it was obvious that a storm was brewing, so we decided to head back to the City.
It was a tiring day of walking and climbing, but Ill definitely visit this place again to take an Angkor Sunset Selfie =)
Siem Reap, Cambodia
On my last day in Siem Reap , I decided to make it my ‘No Itinerary day’ and just experience the charming small city on foot. I Got up at 6 am and decided to visit the central market to experience how the locals start their day. Indeed, it was an interesting morning where everything was relatively new to my senses.
Central Siem Reap on Foot .
A Local referred me to this 4 usd Khmer Shabu Shabu / BBQ Buffet walking distance from Angkor Thom Guesthouse ! super sulit .
Perfect way to cap a tiring day is a relaxing 2 USD foot massage by the street with wifi, fruits and drinks .
Vietnam – Cambodia Border Crossing
Travelling from Vietnam to Cambodia was probably the easiest border crossing I had so far. Below is my travel experience from Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam to Siem Reap, Cambodia . Hope this would help .
There are a number of bus companies travelling HMC to Siem Reap route which takes around 10 hours (500 km) between two cities. I booked my ticket with Sinh Tourist Inc, which is conveniently located near Bui Vien St. where I stayed in HMC. Ticket was at 23 usd, leaving HMC at 6 AM. I booked this a day in Advance. There were other bus options available and some are cheaper by a dollar or two, but since I am travelling solo, I prefer to take the earliest departure time available to get me to Siem Reap before dark.
Upon crossing the border, one can immediately see the distinctiveness between the two nations. Vietnam has stretched its commercial development up to the border while the surrounding immediately changed to rural scenes and flat lands the moment you reach Cambodia. The architecture also changes, from the Chinese-inspired buildings in Vietnam to Cambodia’s shrines and residences more similar to Thailand.
We left Ho Chi Minh at around 6:30 am and Reached Vietnam Border at Moc Bai in 2 hours , the bus staff took our passport and assisted us in the Vietnamese immigration, then we hopped on the bus again to the Cambodian immigration which was just 200 meters away.
The Cambodian border was too relaxed, our baggages were not even checked . We were also asked to pay 2 Dollars for processing and stamping fee. Some said this was tout by that immigration office but I did not bother to argue about it.
We got our passport back and left the immigration building ,crossed the Mekong River for about 15 minutes by ferry and travelled for 3 hours to Cambodia’s Capital , Phnom Penh . We arrived at Sinh Tourist Office in Phnom Penh at around 12 nn, had lunch and a quick look around at the nearby market , while waiting for our bus transfer to Siem Reap at 2 pm..
Central Cambodia is generally flat , rice fields , with some vast patches of swampy areas. Road itself was OK. Some parts are a bit bumpy , but I dare not complain since I am used to travelling by bus here in the Philippines and some provincial roads are worse .
We arrived in Siem Reap at 7 pm , at the Sinh Tourist office opposite the Angkor National Museum . Siem Reap is relatively a city which is easy to navigate with the help of google map. Cambodians generally accept US Dollars, even for fares and in public market purchases.
I took a tuk-tuk for 1 USD to the Central Market where a lot of guest houses can be found. Streets were wide and well lit.
I did not make any prior hotel reservations since I was looking for decent affordable dorm types and wanted to check my options first before booking . But for convenience, pre booked hotels are ideal .
Singapore on a Budget
From Melacca Central Bus Terminal , we took the 2PM bus to Singapore for 23 Ringgit ( around 300 pesos/ 7 USD). Several buses travel this route all day, with the last trip at around 7 pm . Our ride was a basic aircon bus with No TV. Super VIP buses are also available at 25-27 Ringgit (8 USD ). Travel time from Melacca to SG was around 3-4 hours, depending on traffic. We travelled on a Sunday afternoon, so it was a hassle free crossing. Unlike in other countries, immigration for both Malaysia and SG are under one building in Johor Bahru.
Budget Stay in Little India
The bus’ last drop off point was at their garage near Sim Lim Square; very favourable to us because it was just a short walk to Little India where we opt to stay. Contrary to the prior comments of others, staying in the cheerful and vibrant Little India district made my trip in Singapore more interesting. This area is dominated by Indian foodstrips, shops , incense and Bollywood music which was new to my senses. It was also a good exposure in preparation for my next backpacking trip 😉 We stayed at Inncrowd Backpackers inn at Dunlop St. for 20 SGD/night (dorm type) including light breakfast (Toasts,Jam,Egg) and unlimited coffee/tea the whole day. They have a good lounge for guests to watch TV or DVD. Desktop Computers and reference books and Maps are also available for everybody. ( http://www.the-inncrowd.com )
Cheaper to buy Universal Studios Ticket Online
Singapore First timers would definitely include visiting Universal Studios in their itineraries. Walk in ticket prices are at 74 SGD for a day tour , but we were lucky enough to stumble on a discounted online promo with Asiatravel.com … We got our ticket for only 65 SGD , inclusive of 10 SGD consumable + P 5 SGD discount on shopping. Sweet!
Maximize Tourist Privileges
Train connection to Universal Studios is located at Vevo City Mall ,which also gives out a lot of perks for tourists. I just presented by passport at the information counter and got this privilege card to avail shopping discounts and free snacks. =)
Touring the City on your own
1. Mall Hopping at Orchard Road
2. Bay Area and the Gardens by the Bay in the Afternoon
Dinner at MakanSutra Food Stalls Just outside the Esplanade near the Bay Area
Marina Bay Sands Mall and Hotel
Clark Quay for some Chill and Cold beer.
Dine with the Hawkers
Hawkers are the equivalent of Filipino Karinderias , that offer ready made affordable meals. (around 3-5 SGD for 3 viand meals ) Meals are generally Chinese Style and veryTasty.
=)
Melacca, Malaysia
When we were still planning our backpacking itinerary, I made sure to include visiting the Historic Melacca , even for just a day .
Melacca is rich in History and is a known international port since the dawn of Asian Trade between Malay, India and China. It was also said that in the 15th Century, the princess of China’s Ming Dynasty was married to the Sultan of Melacca , which signified strong ties between the 2 kingdoms. The Melaccan Monarchy was abolished during the 16th Century with the colonization of the Portuguese . and later on , captured by the Dutch. As such, European Architectural influence is much evident in this part of Malaysia .
Sample of an Old World Malay Architecture , with its prominent high pitched roof suitable for Malaysia’s tropical Climate
The Xavier Church on top of a Hill .
Jonker Street , Melacca. Malaysia did a good job in preserving the old streets of this town . Indeed you would feel like you’re in an old world Chinese town when you walk on this area.
Enjoyed Free tastes on this Chinese/Malay delicacy station =)
Yogurt ice cream shaped like an egg. 5 Ringgit . I tried the Passion Fruit Flavor .
Kuala Kumpur , Malaysia
It was my first time to visit Malaysia and I was among the few lucky ones to avail the lowest Cebu Pacific promo ever, which flew me from Manila to Kuala Lumpur for just around P 250.00 including fuel surcharges VAT and booking fee. I booked this flight around 13 months in Advance.
Cebu Pacific Landed on the KL Budget Terminal so I was not able to see the Main KL airport which was modern – eco friendly, as described by many . KL airport was more than an hour journey to Central Kuala Lumpur . The airport complex was surrounded by vast Palm Plantation ; No prominent Residential / Industrial developments in its surrounding, which was very ideal.
We arrived at KL Central Station around 7pm and transferred train to Imbi Station , walking distance to Jalan Alor , and the off streets which is one of the backpackers’ area in central KL.
We stayed at i2inn Guesthouse along Jalan Tong Shin (the street after Jalan Alor) .
http://www.i2inn-guesthouse.com/location.html
Highlight : The 6 Ringgit ( P 13 x 6 ) Breakfast Buffet just along Jalan Alor . They say its Buffet, but really its a one round plate but you can put there all the food you can eat . I actually thought at first that it was a literal buffet , so I went back for more. I was Charged + 3 ringgit for the second round . Not Bad Still . Me Goreng noodles and the malaysian chicken curry was awesome ! didnt get hungry for hours . hahaha 
KL Central Station . for Inter City / International Trains . Also has check in counters for KL Airport . KL has one of the most efficient transportation system I have experienced . and Cheap fares too!
My first stop was the Batu Caves at the northern tip of KL where the Hindu Shrine is situated . There is a large number of Hindu in Malaysia , Mostly Indian immigrants. The cave is pretty amazing . By far the biggest I’ve got in to ; fully developed into a temple , so the errryyy cave feel is not there anymore.
The rest of the day was just spent walking around Central KL.
Petronas looks more dramatic at night, and is by far the best looking building I’ve seen . More than just its towering form and dimensions , this building put Malaysia in the Map as one of the Most Aggressive nations in the world.
I have also visited Merdaka Square and nearby landmarks of Kuala Lumpur but didn’t get to take pictures because my Camera got wonky. =(
Ho Chi Minh City for a Day
1. Vietnamese Pho for breakfast
I started my start my day in Vietnam with a bowl of Vietnamese Pho at Bun Bo Hue Restaurant, which was just beside the Backpackers’ place I Stayed in. They serve the best Pho in Bui Vien St., as per the blogs I read . 50,000 dong for a bowl. ( around $ 2.5 usd, 100 pesos ) I ate twice at this restaurant , was really good.
2. Down the memory Lane on foot – Vietnam War Museum , Notre Dame Cathedral , HMC Post Office , Opera House , Peoples’ Committee Hall
3. Vietnamese lunch Buffet
Read Blogs and found this awesome lunch buffet for just 8 USD ! Its on the 5th floor of Park inn Mall , very near the Peoples Committee Hall . Just ask the guard , you wont miss it.
4. Walk the streets
Ban Thanh Market may be the most noted place to buy souvenirs, but items here are quite pricey. I recommend shopping at Saigon Square which is just 3 blocks from Ben Thanh. around 10 mins walk . Small shops along the way are nice to check as well.
5. Highlands Coffee . Just to try, I showed them my highlands Philippines customer card hoping to get some perks. They said they cannot honor the card, but still , they were very kind to give me a promo coupon.. Got a Free drink !!!
6. Saigon Beer to cap the night
Travelling to Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam
I was able to book Tigerair ticket for only P 1,500 pesos to Ho Chi Minh from SG ; A good promo deal! I spent 3 days around HMC with no set itinerary ; just walked around the City and checked some particular landmarks , the Market and indulged myself on local food choices . Pure Chillax lang !
Flying to HMC was around 1.5 hours travel from SG . Arrived there just before 9 am. Airport was OK. not much annoying taxi and tuktuk drivers like in other cities I’ve visited.
HMC airport was quite far from the city center, and trains are not yet available. The cheapest way to the city center is by Bus 152 , which is just outside the international airport, at the far right end of the building . Non aircon bus is only 5000 dong . (around $0.25 / 11 pesos ) Its almost an hour travel with a lot of turn arounds, but as soon as i found Ben Thanh Market, I knew I was at the city center already. I hop off at the stop opposite the market and used my google map to navigate my way to Bui Vien St.
Vietnam, as described by many, is a country of motorcycles . Even old ladies dressed with tight skirts dong bother riding the bike.
I stayed at the Cosman Rucksack Inn, along Bui Vien St. , around 15 mins. walk from Ben Thanh Market . (Google Mapping is adviced) 5 usd for a bed/night , Dorm type accommodation. Its clean and cheap, even better than the 15 usd inn I had in SG .
It is quite easy to roam around and get a hold of Ho Chi Minh vibe because almost all of the usually visited spots are at the city center . Getting an accommodation at Bui Vien St. / Pham Ngu Lao area is recommended.
January Visit to Hongkong
For full time employees like me, Holidays + long weekends are much awaited! Me and my friends were able to book our promo tickets for a Friday to Sunday visit to Hongkong. It was our first to see the city so our itineraries were basically touristy.
It was January temperature was around 18 ‘C during day time and drops to around 10’C in the evening . It was the perfect time to pull those baggy Terranovas out of the closet and onto the pictures =)
I fell in love with the city lights , the rush and the Hongkong- style street food ! My 3 days visit was surely not enough and I am definitely going back to experience more of this city’s off beaten corners.
Travel + Lifestyle + Architecture Blog 