travel and eat

Galang Island: a story about Vietnamese refugees and their camp

noreply@blogger.com (Rani Februandari) — Fri, 10 Apr 2015 06:06:00 +0000

In one hot afternoon, my relative drove her car, took me to the place I've never thought before: Vietnamese refugee camp. This camp is located in Galang Island, about one hour drive from Batam.

"This place will tell us a lot of story about pain and hope," she said to me just before we arrived at the camp.

Couple minute after, I jumped out from the car. A 'ship monument' greeted me.

The boat that brought the refugees

"This is the boat that brought the refugees from Vietnam to here," I heard somebody explaining about the ship to his friends. It's not a big boat, I guess. But, from the blogs I've read before, this boat was used to carry 40-100 people for months. I just can't imagine how the situation is.

After taking some pictures, I decided to visit another spot in this island. The church was becoming my next pit stop. This church...how should I describe about it? This church was really beautiful. Made from wood with simple design. I've never seen such a beautiful but simple church before. This church was called as Nha Tho Duc Me Vo Nhiem.

I don't know the meaning of it. At the left side of this church there was a statue: Mother Mary statue.

The Church

Besides church and the boat, there were some spots that can give us clear image of the situation here back then. There were a hospital, a jail, grave, even barrack. Everything was built from woods. Except the grave, of course.

The Jail

The Grave

The Hospital

That moment, I felt like I wasn't in Indonesia. This place was really like a place in war movie. A bit spooky, and full with sadness. I just can't imagine how was the situation at that moment, how was the people condition, but this place was really perfect to describe the struggle of Vietnamese. And how the war can give negatively impact to the people.

As the sun cames down, I left this island with sadness. May they rest in peace...

Shop till you drop @ Bugis Market

noreply@blogger.com (Rani Februandari) — Wed, 24 Sep 2014 08:25:00 +0000

As a shopping paradise, Singapore offers a lot of place for shopping. From Orchard - the most famous - to boutiques at Haji Lane. From Bugis Junction to Bugis market. Yeah!!! Singapore really

Bugis Market, who doesn't know about this market? For shopaholic this market absolutely would be their playground. If you want to buy souvenirs, you can find it here. Cheap boots? You can have it for under s$ 25. Clothes? Some local cuisines? Accessories? Just explore the market and you will find those stuff here.

Well, probably I can say that Bugis market is the real paradise for shopaholic.

Unlike with its neighbor - the Bugis Junction Mall - the stuff price is cheaper here. Some shops give us fix price while others allow us to make a bargain.

My journey to Bugis Market began on the last day of my trip. Singapore was really hot at that time. But on behalf of souvenirs for my friends and colleague and cheap stuff for me, I had to go to Bugis Market and bought all the stuff that I need in there. First I came to souvenir shop. I bought some key holders and magnetic accessories. It was quite cheap. I forgot what the price was but it seemed they gave me good price.

After I finished with souvenirs, I found a shoe shop and I got boots for S$ 20 each (and after two year the boots are still in good condition!). I also got a blouse for S$ 10 only. My friend got so many accessories like charm bracelets, watches, sunglasses, rings, and earrings in very good price.

After bought a lot of things there, I bought a glass of longans in a syrup with ice. Standing in the front of a shop, I drank it and finished it immidiately. I still bought some stuff after it and stopped shopping when I found that I didn't have any money left in my wallet.

And yes, I recommend this place for shopping. It's not such a cozy place for shopping but I guarantee thay you will get a lot of things in a good price. I suggest to wear comfort clothes, flip flop or flat shoes, and of course money! I don't see any atm machine around here. And it seems you can only pay by cash.

Bugis Market is easy to reach. Just take the mrt to Bugis station and then follow the direction in the station to Bugis Market.

Happy shopping!!!

Plaosan Temple: between a love story, Buddha statue, and superb sunset

noreply@blogger.com (Rani Februandari) — Mon, 15 Sep 2014 07:28:00 +0000

It was a bright and sunny afternoon when I came here. It had been months since the last time I was here. As usual, I chose the terrace of the north-side temple and opened my lunch box. A rice with soya-bean cake mixed with chili sauce and a cup of coffee. Simple lunch menu but I felt wonderful just because I ate my favorite menu at my favorite temple.

Plaosan Lor, is a temple near Prambanan. Located in the east-north side of Prambanan, this temple was officially became my favorite one since the first time I came here and heard about the romantic story of the temple.

This temple was built by a king from Sanjaya Dynasty. The king's name was Rakai Pikatan. She married to Pramodhawardhani, a daughter of Samaratungga from Syailendra Dynasty. Rakai Pikatan was Hindu while Pramodhawardhani was a Buddhist. Rakai Pikatan adored and loved his wife very much. According to several sources, Rakai Pikatan built Plaosan Lor temple as a gift for her wife. Although he is Hindu, he built Buddhist's temple to proved his love to his wife. For me, It is such a romantic love story. Although his wife has a different religion but it doesn't mean that a marriage can not last forever.

After I finished my lunch, I walked around and found the Bodhi tree. From its appearance I can say that this is an old tree. The tree was twisting the stones. The Bodhi tree side is also my favorite. Just try to capture some photos here. The temple looks beautiful from here.

Not far from the Bodhi tree, there was a Mandhapa - an open 'stage' made from stone with many Buddha statues that suround it. Almost of the statues at Mandhapa had lost their head. From the story that had been told by the security officer, there was a theft - Buddha's head theft - that had occured about several years ago here. And eventhough some of the heads had been found but they didn't join the head with the body.

It was almost sunset. I went back to the temple terrace, hoping to see the superb sunset. While I was waiting for sunset, I had this imagination. I imagined that I was Pramodhawardhani, sitting in my own temple, admiring of the nature's beauty around the temple, and feeling blessed for the love that has given to me from my lovely one. And, yeah! I even imagined that my hubby - Rakai Pikatan - hugged me from backside and whispered romantic words only for me.

And as the sunset came in, I became speechless. All the imagination about me becoming Pramodhawardhani had faded away. It was the amazing sunset I've ever seen. The orange-blueish sky was perfect and it became more perfect with the existence of the color of the temple's stone. Obviously, I had an amazing silhouette of the temple's gate here!

A few seconds after the sunset, I decided to leave this temple. The security guard smiled at me and thanked me for my visiting. Before I left this place, I stared at the temple again. Although this temple is not as famous as the neighbour - Prambanan, I mean - but this temple absolutely has its own beauty that hard to resist.

And surely, I will always come back to this place. Soon!

Horoscope vs type of destination (2)

noreply@blogger.com (Rani Februandari) — Sat, 19 Jul 2014 01:42:00 +0000

Taurus

Taurus people have regal taste. They love luxury, art, food, and culture. Unique culinary, cities with famous food and drinks and culture-rich plus cosmopolitan aura will make Taurus people really into it.

Gemini

Gemini is impatient and unpredictable. They always want to absorb the culture from the place that they visit. They also love shopping, buying some souvenirs from the place they visit. The temperament of Gemini is fluctuating. Once they craving for peace and serenity but suddenly they want dazzling places so badly. So, the cities or places that have dual atmosphere is the best place for Gemini to visit.

Cancer

Cancer people are sensitive and emotional. Since they always look the connectivity between their emotion with the place they plan to visit, Cancer people prefer to visit places that secure and comfortable. Places with historical significance are in their top list. But, oh don't forget! Since Cancer is water sign so they would really love places around water bodies.

Leo

Leo loves something glitz and grand. And glamour. They loves something adventurous in an extra ordinary way and Leo always wants to be a leader in every single moment.

Trekking or skiing in marginal places will be the option for them. Cities with throbbing night lives yet cultural underbellies are perfect getaways for Leo people.

Horoscope vs type of destination (1)

noreply@blogger.com (Rani Februandari) — Fri, 18 Jul 2014 18:18:00 +0000

Capricorn

Capricorn's people are usually love everything ellegant and stylish! So they would like a luxury and comfort destination. As an organized people, there is no change for Capricorn to travel unprepared or unplanned. They don't usually ask an adventurous trip or a backpack trip. They prefer a cozy and comfortable trip.

Aquarius

As an Aquarius, their free spirit is important and will influence them in making a decission for their destination. Aquarius need rich and varied experience from the trip. Based on this, an adventurous trip will be the good option for an Aquarius. Diving, snorkling, wildlife adventure could be the option. A place or a destination with unique characteristic, unique people or unique culture is another option to choose.

Pisces

Pisces is usually emotional and sensitive. They love a place with a tranquil ambiance. They also artistic in nature so they like an artistic place. Beach is the place they would love in a first place. Cities that have galleries or museums might steal their attention.

Aries

Aries is usually people who energetic and adventurous in nature. They seem like they have unlimited energy. A destination with a lot of thing to explore is the best option for them.

Travel Tips: MRT

noreply@blogger.com (Rani Februandari) — Tue, 17 Jun 2014 03:51:00 +0000

MRT has been my favorite public transport since the first time I traveling abroad. I love MRT more than bus. So..if the city/place I've visited has MRT as their public transport...I always use it.
It's cheap...than taxi off course, more rapid, and avoiding you from traffic jam...

MRT RULES

don't eat and drink inside MRT
let passengers out first a
always give your seat to pregnant woman, kids, and old people
check your belonging before leaving MRT

The Art of Travel Light

noreply@blogger.com (Rani Februandari) — Thu, 05 Jun 2014 21:39:00 +0000

Traveling with so many luggage is not my type. I prefer the simple one: one backpack and a sort of daily backpack. The fewer the better. I realize the importance of flexibility and practicality. I'm a public transport person and almost not a taxi person (although taxi is also public transport, isn't it?). But for me, using MRT or bus or....walking are the best way to feel and see the real life in a those cities or countries. That's why, those two things: flexibility and practicality, do matter for me.

Packing things in a limit space is not easy. I need some tricks to pack clothes, toiletries, and other things that I need during traveling in a not-so-big backpack. T-shirts are rolled. Bring very little. Sandal or flip-flop is in backpack (not shoes!). Organize your staff in a smart way. If you bring jacket, wear it! Don't put the jacket in your backpack because, you know, the jacket is thick. It will consumes space.

Happy travel light!

Bangkok coconut ice cream is so yummy

noreply@blogger.com (Rani Februandari) — Mon, 19 May 2014 02:50:00 +0000

One of my favorite beverages in Bangkok besides the coffee is...coconut ice cream!
After walking around the city, the best thing that you can have is the coconut ice cream.

The coconut ice cream served in coconut shell, mixed with slices of coconut flesh, and corn or sticky rice or nata de coco as its topping.

But I love the plain one, without any topping.

This 35 bath ice cream vendors can be found easily. I found it outside Wat Pho, while my friend found it at Chatuchack Market. When I visited Ayyuthayya, I found some coconut ice cream vendors too!!

And what about the taste?

The taste is so....coconut! Of course! It is sweet. Tasty! Delicious!!!

Definitely must-try!!

5 plus 1 Things to do in Sabang

noreply@blogger.com (Rani Februandari) — Sun, 09 Mar 2014 00:34:00 +0000

Sabang is a perfect place for weekend gateway or for enjoy the life. It only takes one and half hour from Banda Aceh. If you are looking for a quiet place for your vacation then Sabang is the perfect choice.

So, here are 10 things you can do while visit Sabang.

1. Enjoy beaches

Sabang has so many beaches. If you are looking for quiet beach, please visit to Gapang Beach.

2. Diving, snorkling, and other watersport

The most favorite place for waterspirt is at Iboih. But if you looking for a less-crowds place then you can do it at Gapang Beach

3. Enjoy local food

Try mie sedap (noodle soup) and martabak in front of mie sedap restaurant.

4. Get zero kilometer certificate

Go to the zero kilometer's monument. After taking pictures, go to the food stall that offering zero kilometer's certificate.

5. Explore the island

Rent motorbike or car and explore the island. Just get lost! There are so many places in this island which have great view.

6. Enjoy the life!

Between rain, Sukuh Temple, and Kama

noreply@blogger.com (Rani Februandari) — Fri, 21 Feb 2014 04:41:00 +0000

The rain was falling when I arrived at this temple. Sukuh . A pyramid -shaped temple, similar to a Mayan-Inca pyramid - which lies at Mount Lawu This place is not far from Solo. or Yogyakarta. .Wearing blue raincoat blue, I immediately stepped lightly , through the stone steps of this temple. I've been wanting to be here for years. Therefore, rain would never stop me from visiting this temple today, I said to myself. Just before I entered the temple, a man offered me guide service. I gently rejected.

As has been described in many travel blogs , Sukuh first gate is forbidden to be passed . There is a locked gate in that building. So, I tried to peek at it from the locked gate. And yes, I saw it! A relief of 'linga - yoni ' unity . People thought that it was a symbol of sex intercourse. Is it true?? All I know is lingga and yoni are the symbol of

Many people called this temple as the temple of sex. I do not entirely agree . Moreover, before I rejected the local guide had told me earlier about this temple.

" The form of the temple which is composed of terraces that rise indicates the purpose of life according to Hindu Dharma ( work ) , Artha ( material / money ) , Kama ( sex ) , and finally Moksha. The stage can not be reversed and forth. "

Based on the local guide explanation and the reliefs at this temple, I made a conclusion that this temple is more than just a temple that exploits about sex . This temple, wanted to teach the Hindu community that sex as the element of purusharta that closest to moksha. So, it must be sacred ! Yes , through this temple , the Hindus in particular taught to see sex as something sacred !

The smell of the rain and the wet ground brought me back to observed the statues in this complex . My favorite statue is the one who has a shaped like a woman's uterus .

To the top

The reliefs

The womb-shaped relief

Unfortunately I can not stay here a bit longer . Although it was still raining, I had to leave this place. Just before I left, the mist began to fall.

Tsunami Museum: it's all about remembering

noreply@blogger.com (Rani Februandari) — Fri, 21 Feb 2014 04:28:00 +0000

The tsunami was a devastating natural disaster that we never thought would happen earlier. It hit Aceh on December, 2004. It was Sunday morning.

A local told me about his memories of tsunami.

"Everything was falling apart. My family, friends, and relatives were dead. Tsunami destroyed my house. And after ten years, I still remember about it. About the fear. And I'm sure I will forget it."

I visited this unique building that located across the Blang Padang field. This building, the Tsunami Museum, built to commemorate the natural disaster that struck Aceh in late 2004. After put my bag in locker, I entered the museum. First, I entered the Tsunami Tunnel. It was a narrow and dark tunnel. Completed with water that sometimes hit our body. Then after through the tunnel I entered the room. In this room, there are victims' name taped to the wall.

From this room, i entered another room where I can see the movie clip of Tsunami. The first three rooms presumably serves to give the visitors a quick overview of Aceh tsunami. From the main hall, I explore rooms that exhibit Tsunami pictures, memorable stuff, and everything that connected with Aceh Tsunami.

I was two hours in the museum. Following the whole narrative back on the catastrophic events through images, writing, and movies. Tragic! Even so, as a reminder, this museum is quite successful.

Through this museum, through sad pictures and all memorable stuff here, we all be reminded about many things in this life. We are reminded of the presence of God, who became the director of this life. That everything is possible happen to us if he wants it.

Second, we are reminded not to destroy nature. We must learn to read the nature's behaviour. Make nature become our best friend.

Third, we are reminded that we can't live without others. That people in the world should help each others. No matter if they have a lot of difference with us. You never walk alone...

Fourth. There is always a rainbow after the rain. No matter how bad things happen to us, the good things will come to us after that.

I guess this place is the right pit-stop to remember....

Amazing Ayyuthayya

noreply@blogger.com (Rani Februandari) — Thu, 23 Jan 2014 15:11:00 +0000

So, this is Ayyuthayya. I was on my bike, around the city. And all i can see are the ruin of the temples and the travelers.

After almost 2 hrs trip by train from Bangkok, biking combined with hot weathers actually was not good idea. But, well... The only cheapest option to explore Ayyuthayya was by bike. Only 40 baht a day! But as soon as I met with the temples, the hot weather wasn't my problem anymore.

Temples in Ayyuthayya remind me with the one of heritage site in Java, Trowulan. Here, all temples can be described as mega structures. They were big, made from bricks, some were under reconstruction while the others were only ruins.

The man from the bike rental gave me Ayyuthayya map. I found that Ayyuthayya had so many temples. And it was not possible for me to visited all the temples in one day. No...in half day. I had to go back to Bangkok at 4 pm. So, for my half day tour, I just visitide 4 temples/sites.

The first temple I visited was Wat Maha That. The Budha's head statue was very famous. Wat Maha That is the must-visit site.

In this site there were about 4 or 5 different type of 'buildings'.

Here, I noticed something. That the shape of Budha statue in Thailand is different from in my country. Budha statues in Thailand are slimmer.

Next Wat is Wat Phra Si Sanphet. This was my favorite wat. The sites was bigger than Wat Maha That. The place was not so bleak. Some of the 'buildings' are renovated and made from concrete.

The best section of this site was the pathway at the back side of this temple. One of its side was a row of old trees while the others was used to be a row of Budha statues.

The rain was falling just before I left the Wat. So I waited for the rain and ate the coconut ice cream. The next hour, I was on my way to the big reclyning Budha statue.

The site was rather far from the temple but when I was arrived, I was very disappointed with this site. The statue was not well maintained. It was dirty. I only 5 mins there without taking any photos.

I looked at my watch and...oh...!!! It was nearly 3 pm. My train to Bangkok was at 4 pm. So, I had to went back to the station immidiately. On the way back to the station, I visited Wat Phra Nam. Another beautiful temple with a small lake so you could see the reflection of the temple on the lake. Really beautiful. Too bad, I couldn't stay longer at Wat Phra Nam. I had to catch the train. One hour later I was in a train. I bought the 2nd class. After biking around the city, all I wanted was an aircon train. Even the price is much expensive than the 3rd class, but for the sake of the aircon...

As the train left the station, I looked at Ayuthayya again through the window. I admitted that Ayuthayya was really occupied my mind. Someday Ayuthayya, I said to myself, I would come to visit you again. Soon! I wish....

Bangkok: Love it or leave it!

noreply@blogger.com (Rani Februandari) — Wed, 22 Jan 2014 11:04:00 +0000

As the one of the worst traffic jam city, Bangkok still has the magnet for travelers. The foods, the massage, the city atmosphere, the tradition, the temples, the malls....you name it!

Spend 7 days and six night in Bangkok, I was amazed with so many things here. I can feel the paradoxity here between modern and tradition (religion). The temples with their unique architecture vs the high rise building, the monks vs ladyboys. The mall vs traditional market.

First morning in Bangkok I took Chao Praya express to Wat Arun. It was Saturday morning. The boat was full. The guide was busy explaining to the tourists about the buildings and the interest places along the river. At dock #8, I junped out and took another boat to cross the river. Wat Arun, here I come!

Bought a ticket then I entered the gate. This temple was really challenging. Climb the temple and went down through narrow and very steep stairs. Eventhough the stairs were completed by hand rail but I still nervous.

Accompanied with banana fried, I walked to Wat Po just for took some pictures of the huge reclining Budha. I was here for half hour only. I had to go to Chatuchak before they close.

I felt so exciting when I visited Chatuchak market on Saturday afternoon. Bargained and bought everything I want. Although that place isn't comfortable but I didn't mind. I just love shopping and bargaining!

This place was absolutely my playground. Cool stuff, ethnic bags, crafts, clothes, silk...you can find those things here. If you feel tired, you can find a lot of local foods here.

Bangkok after dark is more sparkling. Malls at Siam district and the nightlife at Pat Pong with their ladyboy show. But it will be great too if you just sit and have your beer at Khaosan with other travelers or just walking around like I did!

The second day, I visited the palace, and..once again...some temples. The marble temple is my favorite. Not because of the temple but...it because of the garden. I spend half hour in a gazebo reading a book and listening to my iPod and eating papaya which i bought from the fruit seller outside the temple.

The greatest thing happened when I was on the way to Wat Suthat. Some people told me that Wat Suthat was close. I didn't believe them. From the travel blogs, i read that sometimes tuktuk driver told traveler that the palace was close but it wasn't. I ignored them and kept walking untill I found there was a marching band in front of the wat. Polices are everywhere. The street was close. All the motorcycle and cars and busses were stopped.

I realized that there would be something happened here. I took the picture of the marching band but the policeman who stood next to me told me not to took some pictures. It was prohibited. So.I asked him what's going on. He said that the prince would be coming to the temple.

The Prince???

So when the Prince was come, everybody must stood up. No photos! And after the prince and his wife went out from their car and came in, everything was back to normal. The traffic was normal. People continued their activities. And I tried to stop taxi and went back to the hostel.

Well, if you feel enough with temples and Bangkok architecture, I think it's time for you to go to Dusit Palace or Ananta Samakhom or you can attend cooking class instead walking around from mall to mall.

Well, Bangkok is really a paradox city. Traditional vs modern. Old vs new. Traditional market vs mall. Traffic jam vs BTS. Chaos vs organized.

So...love Bangkok or just leave it!

Saigon vs pre wedding

noreply@blogger.com (Rani Februandari) — Sun, 22 Dec 2013 01:45:00 +0000

Four days in Saigon and I saw three pre wedding photo session. Two sessions at Saigon post office and the other at Ho Chi Minh Museum.

So, I guess Saigon is one of the perfect place for pre wedding photo session.

When I asked the pre wedding photographer, he said that the old buildings of Saigon usually become the favorite place for pre wedding photo session. Post office and Ho Chi Minh Museum are the most favorite place.

But Saigon City Hall and Saigon Opera House are perfect for pre wedding too!

So, I guess the cities with their old buildings in good condition are the perfect place for pre wedding photo session.

Happy wedding day!!

Amphawa in 3 hours

noreply@blogger.com (Rani Februandari) — Sun, 08 Dec 2013 00:09:00 +0000

Sunday 3 pm. I was standing at minivan pick up point. I was at Amphawa. Felt so hot and hungry. And had no clue to find direction to the floating market. So, instead of doing nothing here, I followed the Japanesse traveler. He brought the map in his right hand and smartphone in his left hand. I was too lazy to find the direction through my Iphone. I was starving and couldn't think clearly. So I just followed him!

Less than 5 mins I saw a lot of street vendors selling foods. Pork, fruits, snacks, and my favorite....sea food! And in a minute I brought 3 plates full of scallop with sour chili sauce. 3 plates for me only! Yeah, I was starving!! I bought it for 150 baht!

After finished with scallops I had to figure out: where is the floating market. Well, I'm not a well-prepared traveler. All I know is how to get in to Amphawa from Bangkok and how to go back to Bangkok from Amphawa. So I followed people.

I kept walking till I found a super crowded market. Everybody were here I guess. Most vendors offered local foods or beverages while some vendors, not much, offered religion stuff.

The crowded market

For their ritual

Not far from the market there was a bridge. Super crowded also! But many people were taking photos there. I walked to the bridge and when I stood right in the top of the bridge, I found what I was looking for. The floating market!

Floating Market

And then I realized that this floating market sell local culinary as the main tourism product to attract the tourists. Not all vendors. But mostly. But yeah! I agree that this place still original. Many people said that the other famous floating matket - Damnoen Saduak - is too commercial. That's why I decided not to go to Damnoen Saduak. Too bad, Amphawa floating market only open during weekend.

After down the bridge,I turned to the left, and walked at the riverside. This side was crowded too! People sat at the riverside and bought foods. Some Amphawa boys played, running around, but next second they changed their part: from the ordinary boys turned into waiters for the vendors. Yes! They served foods that has been ordered by the tourists.

The riverside, the old shop house, and the tourists

The Amphawa boy a.ka the waiter

I sat at the riverside and drank the coconut. Amphawa's wheater is hot. Two coconuts finally make me fresh again.
Next to me there was a lady who sells boat trip ticket. The fireflies boat trip costs 60 baht and start after 6 pm. The 50 baht boat trip is a trip to four or five temples at Amphawa. Because I must go back to Bangkok before 7 pm, so it was impossible for me to take the fireflies boat trip. Although most traveleres recommended fireflies boat trip. So I took the 50 baht boat trip.
Lucky me, this lady couldn't speak English. I didn't understand what she said, and so did she. I gave hr 50 bath and said that I want to take boat trip. I pointed to the picture at her desk but she still talking in Thai language. Nearly desperated, a local girl offered me to be my translator. I agreed. So, she started explain to the ticket lady and in a few sec the ticket is in my hand.

"Thank's" I thanked to her.

"It's okay! Have a nice trip," she answered and smiled at me. And then she told me to go to the 'dock' where the boat is.

In a boat I was alone. I had to wait until the passengers come and the boat is full.

"For how long?" I asked the boatman.

"One hour!"

I looked at my watch. It was 4 pm. I should go back to Bangkok at 7 pm and got to be pick up point before 6.30 pm. The trip itself takes 1-2 hrs.

Thank's God....in 45 mins the trip began.

It was a special trip. We went to four or five wat (temples). People can pray there. Hmm...I hope I coud see beautiful and unique wats that slightly different from wats in Bangkok. But I was wrong. The wat architecture is similiar with Bangkok wat. And although the wat is clean but looks dull. No explanation from the boatman about wats history or something. And yeah... I began to feel like I was wasting my time taking this trip.

But, there is always blessing in disguise, isn't it??? The lady who was sit next to me asked me in Thai language. And once again I had to explain that I'm not Thai people, so she asked me again using English. She asked if I enjoyed this trip or not. Then I told her what's in my mind. And the rest of the trip, she became my private guide.

Still don't know what it is. Cemetery? Or just stupas?

Feeding fish after pray

Wat in Amphawa

Amphawa before sunset

The wat guard.....cute!

After the fourth temple, the rain was falling. So we had to finished the trip. It was 5.45 pm when the boat arrived at the 'dock'. After said goodbye with the lady, I jumped out from the boat.

I guess it was the time for me to said goodbye to Amphawa.

See you soon, Amphawa....!!!!

Downtown Houston

noreply@blogger.com (Rani Februandari) — Wed, 04 Dec 2013 11:39:00 +0000

Although Houston is not a famous destination for traveler but actually there are some places you could visit while you were there! And if you only have a little time to enjoy Houston then Houston downtown is a must visit place you could not ignore!

Thank's to the government who established good public transportion in 2003 to explore downtown. Besides metro (public bus), you should try metrorail to explore downtown. With only $1.25 for single trip and valid for 3hrs, you could explore theater district, museum district, historical district, or...for shopahollic..the shopping district.

My journey starts from Holocaust Museum. I came to the museum around 8.45 and the museum still close. Lucky me! I just walked around the museum, took some pictures and when I came back the museum was open.

The museum is free, but they told us to donate. Taking pictures inside museum is prohibited. Actually, it brokes my heart. But what can I do?? So I kept the camera inside my backpack and left it in the locker.

The main part in this museum tells us about the holocaust from Jewish side. We can see what happen that day and the days after. There are also several exhibitions here, but still under 'holocaust' or 'war' term.

Felt enough with the museum, I took the train to shopping district. I saw homelesses were sitting in front of shops. They were waiting for us, probably for some foods or money.

At other side, the policeman who rides horse was giving directions to the tourist. I just walked around this district and found benches with ponds in front of it. Workers were sitting there and having their breakfast. Paradox always happen everywhere!

Next, I walked toward city hall. I sat at Hermann Square, enjoying the day. But the homeless who sat next to me was so annoying. I had an argue with him. He wanted me to give him some food but I didn't have it. So, when he knew that I was a traveler he wanted me to give him bucks. I left him and he grumbled.

At historic district, actually nothing was special here. Except one or two buildings and the old clock that standing in front of cafe. But I enjoyed to be here. Bricks building always matter for me. I took a lot of picture here.

Houston downton is not bad. There are some interesting place in the area. Just walked around the area. You'll never know what you will get!

One hour and half transit at Domodedovo

noreply@blogger.com (Rani Februandari) — Tue, 03 Dec 2013 07:10:00 +0000

Transit in Moscow?? It sounds perfect. I never been to Moscow before. So, even in the airport at least I can say to my friends: I've been in Moscow before!

After 10 or 11 hrs flight from Singapore, my SQ stopped at Domodedovo for one and a half hours before flew again to Houston - my final destination.

And the story began...

The security check at this airport for transit passangers has become a nightmare. Showing our passport (and sometimes the boarding pass) became first procedure of security check. Then we entered the room to checked our stuff into detector. All gadgets were placed in a tray. We should took off our shoes. After that, we...once again showed our passport to security guard before we could enter the gate.

Sounds simple but...with a lot of passangers and the narrow space, it tooks almost one hour to complete all procedures. And sometimes the procedure itself can change. For example, the first procedure of transit security check in Singapore-houston route, I only showed the boarding past. But in Houston-Singapore route, I must show the passport too. The other example is, after the security check and before enter the gate, in Singapore-Houstoun route we have to show our bags - once again - to security guard. But it didn't happen in my Houston-Singapore route.

So, my one and half hour at Domodedovo was really really exhausting! Can't do window shopping there because all we did: queing, security check in, queing, and fly to the next destination.

Absolutely not a good transit experience!!!

Saphaipae Hostel: The safe place for female travelers

noreply@blogger.com (Rani Februandari) — Tue, 03 Dec 2013 03:41:00 +0000

I found this hostel from hostelworld app in my iphone. I can say, I fell in love at first sight through website with this hostel. Most of reviewers said that this hostel is too good to be truth. Excellent. Super Clean. Nice place to stay. Etc. So l decided to stay at this hotel in my 6 days trip to Bangkok.

After my arrival, I took the aerolink then BTS and stopped at Surasak Station. And after 5 mins walk, I was in front of the hostel

The lobby

When I walked into the lobby, the guy at the front desk greeted me. "Hello! What can I do for you?"

I asked him if there were still remaining bed in female dorm. Lucky me! I still got one!

After finished all administration stuff, the fuy at front desk gaves me the key card. Wohooo!!! Key card!! Just like hotel. The last time I stayed at hostel in Saigon, the key is as the usual.

The other thing that really impress me was this place really pamper female travelers. Female traveles have their own bathroom, laundry room, and living room. The female dorm also has special access so men couldn't enter that area.

Female dorm

The private electricity plug in

This hostel is clean. Cozy. And every dorm completed with locker in descent size. Every bed completed with private electricity plug in, activated by their key card.

Although the price not include breakfast, this place is worth to stay for budget travelers. Even for female travelers. I can say, this place is safe for female travelers.

Pagoda Street at Singapore Chinatown

noreply@blogger.com (Rani Februandari) — Tue, 26 Nov 2013 01:02:00 +0000

When I was in MRT on the way back from Sim Lim to Orchard, I decided to visit Chinatown. A very quickie visit. So I jumped out at Chinatown MRT station. That day, one hour before sunset, I was at Chinatown.
Pagoda street still very crowded. Some travelers were too busy to take good pictures, some Indian people went to Sri Mariamann Temple for pray, while others were having their early dinner or hanging out with their friends. Drinking beers and enjoying the moment.Some people were shopping for chinese souvenirs here.

From the exit I walked to the end of Pagoda Street. I can smell the foods (especially chinese food) here. And.. yes...I started to feel hungry. But there was no time for me to have some delicious food here. I must hurry!!!

And once again, i was so blessed being here. This place is so perfect for me. The heritage buildings mixed with the modern one and the Chinese tradition mixed with Indian tradition. We can see the chinese lanterns decorate the street while some stall were selling items for Indian. Back to the heritage buildings, I was so amazed with them. As heritage lover, the buildngs are too beautiful to be ignored. The facade is unique. It's a bit different from chinatown in KL although both of them are shopping places.

At the end of the street, I can find this beautiful temple: The Sri Mariamann Temple. The oldest Hindu temple in Singapore. I didn't enter to the temple. Just took some photos from the outside. But, among Hindu temples in Singapore, this temple is more beautiful and probably this is the biggest.

I like the ornaments on its roof. The nandi and the gods and goddess. I called it: sophisticated but beautiful! The colors make this temple look so bright and alive.

Before I left this place, I saw perfect sunset here. When nature combined with the past and the present: the sunset that mixed with heritage buildings, chinese lantern, and the highrise building. You should not miss this moment!

Saigon 36 hrs

noreply@blogger.com (Rani Februandari) — Thu, 04 Jul 2013 03:31:00 +0000

Saigon becomes transit city before you leave to Siam Reap. However, Saigon is too beautiful to ignore. If you have only 36 hrs to explore Saigon, then these are amazing places you should visit.

1. Half day tour Cu Chi Tunnel

This place is the most famous historical site. The vietnam war was happen here. The tour guide will tells us about the story of the war, what actually happened during the war, and vietcong strategy against american army. The two best experiences in this tour are walking down the tunnel (you can choose between the 'tourist' tunnel which is wider or the narrower) and playing with AK 47 at shooting range.

2. Ben Tanh Market

The biggest market in Saigon and the right place to buy souvenirs. From shirts, ao dai (female traditional clothes), paintings, and still many more. You should bargain here for getting cheap price. At night, this place is full with food stalls.

3. Notre Dame Cathedral

One of the great french colonial building in Saigon. The facade is as the same as Notre Dame in Paris. This church is one of Saigon's icon. With the beatiful small garden in front of it, this spot is a nice place to take some photos or just to hang out with friends.

4. Post office

Another Saigon's icon is the central post office. Located next to Notre Dame Cathedral, the building and its interior is extremely beautiful and unique.

5. War Remnants Museum

For those who interest in Vietnam War history and the effects of the war, you must visit War Remnants Museum. This museum is located at district 3.

6. Reunification Palace

Visit president palace and have a quick tour exploring the palace. This place is not far from War Remnants Museum.

7. Saigon Opera House

One of my favorite colonial building in s Saigon Opera House, known also by the name of Municipal Theater. As the name implies this building certainly serves as a theater,or traditional Vietnamese music and theater, as well as other classical music. Saigon Opera House is located in the city center.

8. Saigon City Hall

At the time of the French colonial administration, this building is a hotel building. But when the communists took over, the building functioned as a Building Committee or now known as City Hall. Unfortunately, the building is closed to the public. So the tourists can simply enjoy the beauty of this building from the outside only. In front of this building there is a garden with a statue of Uncle Ho. City Hall is located not far from the Saigon Opera House.

9. Water Puppet Show

Don't forget to watch water puppet show while you were visiting Saigon. This water puppet show is performed in a pool of water 4 meters square with the water surface being the stage. A traditional Vietnamese orchestra provides background music accompaniment. The instrumentation includes vocals, drums, wooden bells, cymbals, horns, monochord, gongs, and bamboo flutes. The story is about vietnam traditional life.

Singapore 24 hrs

noreply@blogger.com (Rani Februandari) — Thu, 06 Jun 2013 10:11:00 +0000

If you only have one single day to explore Singapore, just don't miss some places i thought you MUST visit. Check this out!

1. Merlion

As Singapore's icon, Merlion park is the must visit place in Singapore. Located in marina bay area, not far from Fullerton Hotel, the best time to visit this place is in the afternoon-evening. Because it will be very hot if you visit in the morning-noon.
The easiest way to get here is by MRT and choose Raffless Place Station and choose UOB plaza exit. Just walk towards Fullerton Hotel then cross the street. It takes approx 5-7 mins walk.

2. Marina Bay sands skypark

Standing at the roof tom from high rise building is one of the best experience in Singapore. Located in 55th floor of Marina bay hotel, this place is awsome. You can see Singapore from the top. Please come here after 5 pm. You will see the amazing view from here.
You can use MRT to get here. Exit at promenade (circle line) then you should take approx 10 mins walks.

3. Boat quay + cavanaugh bridge

It is one of my favorite spot in Singapore. Just come to Boat quay around 4 pm. It is the perfect place for enjoying the scenery around the river. Here you can find 'singapore ice cream', the cutting ice cream covered with bread. If you want to try singapore river cruise, you can find the ticket booth here. Looking for place to hangout? You can find many cafes here. Or if you just want to take some pictures of you, you can find some beautiful spots here. Fullerton, cavanaugh bridge, and...off course the river!

4. Clark quay

Clark quay at night is the perfect place to visit before you leave Singapore tomorrow morning. There are some attractions you could try, like reverse bungy or extreme swing. This place also has variety of cafes and restaurants. But it also be okay if you just want to sit and enjoy the night.
You can ride MRT to get here and exit at clark quay station

5. Chinatown (pagoda street)

This place is the one of the must visiting street market in Singapore. It is the best place for shopping, especially for chinnese stuff and the best place for your culinary adventure. The interesting part of this place is although this place is known as chinatown, but in the end of the street you can find Sri Mariamman Temple, the biggest Indian temple in Singapore.
From Chinatown MRT station, choose exit to Pagoda Street.

6. Orchard Rd

Who doesn't know Orchard Road? The most famous shopping district you must visit in Singapore. Lot of malls will absolutely tease you to 'invest' your dollars into clothes, jewelerry, fashion, etc.
This street has three MRT station: Dhoby Gaut, Orchard, and Sommerset.
But do you know that Istana or official residence and office of Singapore President is in this street?

7. Bugis

Bugis is not only Bugis Junction or Bugis street, the best and largest place for buying some souvenirs. This area is next to Kampong Glam and Albert St + Waterloo St for exploring the area on foot. There, you can find Sri Krishnan Temple and Kwan Im Thong Hood Cho. At night, you can find food stalls in Bugis area that sell cheap food.
Sounds perfect for backpackers, huh!
If you want to go here just take MRT and exit at Bugis station.

8. Esplanade

Esplanade is performing art venue but it is worth to visit and shot some pictures there. The shape of the building is unique and it's called 'Durian' shape.
Just take MRT and exit at Esplanade station or City Hall station. You can also take bus to get here.

9. Gardens by the bay

The newest attraction in Marina Bay Area is Gardens by the bay. The nice place to enjoy Singapore. Just walk in the garden or ride the shuttle bus to get to the conservatory.
Just take the MRT to Bayfront (circle line) and then take exit B and follow the sign/

Enjoy your 24 hrs Singapore trip!

Singapore thieves market

noreply@blogger.com (Rani Februandari) — Mon, 29 Apr 2013 05:09:00 +0000

Let's leave the glamourous things in Singapore for just a sec. Go to Bugis and walk to Sungei Road, not so far from Sim Lim Tower. Around Pitt street, you should meet the most famous and the oldest market: Thieves Market.

Just forget about orchard! At this place, you can see a different face from Singapore. The people in Singapore who try to sell all used stuffs like clothes, cell phones, electronic stuffs and their spare part, shoes, bags, religion statues, old money etc...

When you came in the evening around 4 pm then you will se a lot of things here. The sellers came with luggages, full with their used stuffs they try to sell. Chinesee, Malay, even India sellers are there.

Although this thieves market is similiar with Indonesia's, they still atract me. Tourists are rarely come here. So i think this place is the best one for you to learn how the local is.

The important things you should know are:
1. Always ask them if you want to take their pic or their stuffs. Some people don't like to be photo.
2. The nearest mrt station is Bugis.
3. Always come in the evening around 3 pm - 5 pm

Saigon street food

noreply@blogger.com (Rani Februandari) — Sat, 16 Mar 2013 07:21:00 +0000

Saigon is a paradise of street food. Your adventure to Saigon isn't complete until you try the street foods here. Throughout the morning until night there are always some street food sellers in the footway. During my visit to Saigon I always buy some street food. I love to buy street food there. It's tasty and cheap. The price is about 20000-40000 VND. equivalent to US$1-2. Below is some street foods I've bought there.

Banh Cam

Banh Cam is the one with sesame seeds

I found this near Ben Thanh bus station. In my country, we called it Onde-onde. But, imho, Banh Cam is crispier although it sill chewy. It was made from glutinous rice powder. Ban Cam at Ben Thanh is plain. No filling. But according to various sources can also be varied with different filling such as chocolate or nuts or mung beans

Bot chien

Bot Chien...

Well this is one of my favorite street food. Made from eggs mixed with fried tapioca, and then mixed together with fish sauce and chili sauce. The taste is good and for moslem people, this street food is 100% halal! I found this food in the afternoon on a sidewalk not far from Notre Dame Cathedral area. With a short plastic chairs, I enjoy this snack accompanied by the smell of mire. Hmmm .... delicious!!!!!

Muc Chien Nuoc Mam and Nang Muc Nuong Muo Ot

Two snacks I have met in a sidewalk cart in the night between Ben Thanh Market and Pham Ngu Lao. That is Muc Chien Nuoc Mam and Muc Nung Nang.

Muc Chien Nuoc Mam, is fried calamari . It was savory spicy. But, at that time I was more interested in trying Muc Nang Nuong. What is it??? Hihi ... it's squid, marinated and then baked / roasted then sliced (with a rolling pin.). After that you could eat them with chili sauce. Nice??? I say them: very delicious!!!

Banh Trang Nuong

Commonly referred as the Rice Paper Tachos because these snack has similar form with tachos. The ingridients usually are: mixture of pork, dried shrimp, shelled corn, onions, peppers, and a variety of other ingredients. They cooked and mixed with chili sauce and wrapped in a kind of spring roll skin (commonly called rice paper) and formed a semi-circle and baked it. So it makes Banh Trang Nuong crispy. What about the taste?? Sour spicy and slightly sweet. Since I don't eat pork, I ordered a special tachos without using pork.

Sugar Cane Ice

Made from Sugar Cane that has been pressed and mix with lemon and ice. Combined with hot Saigon's weather. Perfect!

Milo Ice

When I decided to buy ice milo on the way to Ben Tanh from War Remnants Museum, I imagine that it would be an ordinary milo ice like in my country. But I was wrong. Milo Ice in Saigon was really ice literally. Here is the recipee. Milo powder mixed with a little water to make it liquid (perhaps less appropriately called liquid. Imagine just chocolate jam.). After that, the seller put some ice cubes and .... voila!!!! Milo ice is ready to be enjoyed.

Actually there are many other street food that littered the roadside. There waffles (no ice cream of course) that can be purchased at the outside of central post office, fried bananas, chicken satay with sesame seeds , durian sticky rice porridge, and many more. And the price is cheap. It's about US$ 1-2.

So don't forget to buy some street food while you were in Saigon...okay?

PS: For moslem traveler, always ask if it contains pork or not ....

Triwindu, the antique market

noreply@blogger.com (Rani Februandari) — Wed, 13 Mar 2013 01:47:00 +0000

Surakarta or we usually call it as Solo has an antique market. From lamp to batik, cups, statues, used kebaya (javanesse woman traditional clothes), antique door handle, etc. You can find everything here. Located near Mangkunegaran, this place is next to the main road of Solo.

For antique stuff and vintage lovers, this place is paradise. Unfortunately, many things (especially lamp and craft) are new. A new stuff that has been made with old design. So...some stuff are not the 'real antique'.

But still worth to buy!

Just walk down the alleys and you'll be surprised with so many amazing stuffs here. This place is really a must-visit place while you visiting Solo. Enjoy your treasure hunt!

Batik

Loro Blonyo Statues

cups

old typewriter

Antique lamps

TRAVELER TIPS
1. The access to this place is very easy. If you want to use public transpirt, then use becak (pedicab) or you can use Batik Trans.
2. If you use Prameks Train from Yogya, you can stop at Purwosari Station then pick Solo Batik Trans
3. Pay with cash. Eventhough there are some stores that provide EDC machine, but majority the stores don't have EDC machine.
4. The price is not fix price.
5. This market is open from 9 am to 5 pm.

Backpacking to Yogya

noreply@blogger.com (Rani Februandari) — Fri, 18 Jan 2013 18:23:00 +0000

As a top destination #2 in Indonesia, Yogyakarta has so many places to see and to do. From mountain to beaches. From cultures to culinary. That's why many travelers love to visit Yogya as their travel destination.

Yogya is a cheap destination, comparing to other destination in Indonesia. So, for budget traveler or backpacker, Yogyakarta is one of the perfect place to travel..

WHERE TO STAY

Sosrowijayan, absolutely! It's backpacker's area. Next to Malioboro - the most famous place in Yogyakarta - and main destinations such as: Vredeburg, Sultan Palace, etc.

But if you need more quiet place combine with low budget hotels, then you can stay at Prawirotaman.

WHAT TO SEE
1. Temples/candi

The two famous, Borobudur and Prambanan...everybody already knew! But there are so many temples/candi that you can see in Yogya and surrounding. Candi Ijo, Ratu Boko, Candi Plaosan, Candi Gebang, Candisari, Candi barong, Candi Sambisari, Candi Kalasan, Candi Mendut....they have their own beauty.

2. Beaches

Parangtritis and Depok in Bantul region is the two famous beach. But if you are looking for white sandy beach, go to the Gunung Kidul region! There are so many beaches there...some beaches are categorized as 'virgin beach'. Drini, Siung, Ngobaran, Ngrenehan, Pok Tunggal, Wediombo are the beaches you could visit. Or you can go to Kulon Progo region to visit Trisik beach, Congot Beach, or Glagah Beach.

3. HERITAGE

Vredeburg, Sultan Palace, Ulen Sentalu Museum, and Pakualaman are the option. Kotagede in south of jogja is the urban heritage destination that surely will make you amazed. If you interest in tombs, you could visit the royal tomb at Imogiri.

WHAT TO Do

1. Shopping

From batik till craft. You can have them in cheap price at Beringharjo Market. Or you can visit Mirota Batik. Actually, in Kulon Progo, there is Kampung Batik at Lendah.

2. HERITAGE TRAIL

There is heritage trail program in Kotagede

3. LAVA TOUR

Exploring Mt. Merapi after its erruption.

4. CULINARY

Enjoy the local food. Gudeg, kipo (you can find at Kotagede), or you can try 'angkringan' next to Tugu train station. One of the local restaurant you should visit is BU AGENG restaurant at Tirtodipuran. The owner is the famous artist in Indonesia: Butet Kartaredjasa.

If you love chocolate, you can stop at Monggo Chocolate shop at Kotagede or Tirtodipuran.

GETTING AROUND

You could use becak (pedicab), trans jogja (public bus), or you can rent motorcycle (recommend) or rent a car!