czyreil's travelogue

Day 1 - Flying off to Frankfurt and staying at Gelnhausen, Germany (2011)

2011-08-01T11:08:00.001+08:00

The day has come. We've packed our bags, checked all our documents and we were ready to go. We took the very early morning flight from Singapore to Dubai (via Colombo) which meant we had to be at the airport by 10pm. The kids were excited to see their cousins (we planned to meet up in Dubai).

Going thru the immigration we handed over our passports and our REPs (re-entry permits for Permanent Residents). Lo and behold, we printed the old, expired one! The immigration officer asked if we have already renewed our REP. I confidently answered yes (because we renewed it in time for our travel to New Zealand in 2009). She had a puzzled look on her face - checking our printed REP and her computer screen. Then she discussed with the other immigration officer. I asked if there was any problem to which she replied, "I was just wondering how come your REP print out has a different expiry date than the one I have on my computer". The senior officer (I assume) from the other counter gestured to her that it was ok and she let us thru. Phew! Good thing was that their database was up-to-date. While we were waiting for our flight, I scanned through my emails to check our current REP (and was wondering endlessly why in the world I printed out the wrong document when I checked and double checked everything days before our departure) just in case they look for it again on our return flight. Found it, saved it on ifile, and felt relieved.

It was going to be a long flight plus short stop at Colombo before we finally get to Frankfurt. I had to sleep on board. Don't want to feel giddy again like what happened on our flight to NZ when I watched 3 movies in a row. Thank goodness for these in-flight entertainment systems the kids were kept busy so they don't usually make a fuzz even on long-haul trips.

For this trip, I made mini-scrapbooks for the kids. I just pasted some cut-outs of tourist attractions on some pages. I figured this would keep the kids interested and not bored during our long walks. They could also stick some memorabilia on the notebooks. But Ira was so keen on writing his comments (even though he has not seen the places yet!). He kept himself busy while waiting to board the plane.

Ira scanning and writing in his mini-scrapbook

Few hours later, we arrived in Dubai. We still had to wait for our connecting flight. We walked close to our gate and found a McDonalds. Had something to eat and proceeded to our gate where we saw our travel companions (sis-in-law, SIL's hubby and kids). At first the kids were still a bit shy to interact with each other. But when we got into the plane and took off the kids made the plane a playground!

It was a long but comfortable flight to Frankfurt. The kids played computer games while adults watched movies (if not sleeping). I reminded Ira that he needed to sleep after playing to avoid the "NZ trip incident" from happening again. He agreed and told me that he would just eat his food then sleep cause he knew if he sleeps he would have enough rest and won't vomit.

Few more hours and we've landed at Frankfurt International Airport. We were excited to explore the city but of course, we had to go thru immigration first. We prepared our documents (invitation letter and supporting papers) and breezed through the immigration. Next was the long wait for our baggage. We only had 2 checked in luggage but our companions had a whole lot of them! We looked for luggage carts and found them but we had to pay Euro2 deposit for each (to be refunded when the carts are returned). Unfortunately, we didn't have small bills. We waited for an airport official to ask for change. Luckily, one person was able to give us a change.

When we got all our luggage we headed out to the arrival area to meet our hosts - my sis-in-law and her in-laws (our Germany hosts). We exchanged greetings, let the kids run around and amuse the in-laws while Mark and my other sis-in-law get our cars from Hertz. Then we were on our way to Gelnhausen, around 30mins drive from the airport, our home for the next 6 days.

welcome to Gelnhausen! The lovely home of our hosts.

We were greeted by a "welcome" banner made by Tita Ingrid and Tito Peter, our hosts upon arriving at their home. They have a very lovely home, with all the trinkets they have collected from their travel over the years. The house was really full of memories. Makes me wonder how I was going to have this kind of home back in Singapore (uh, that's quite a big challenge). They have a basement, second floor and attic. It doesn't look big from the outside because the house was designed in a way wherein the levels were only like half a floor up (something like that). They also have small pond in the garden. And currently constructing a zen garden in the front yard. The kids loved the big space and enjoyed walking up and down the stairs.

We brought our luggage to our respective rooms (yes, we had one room per family and the kids had one room for themselves, if they wanted to!). Then sat down for a chat. We thought we would just be resting for the rest of the day but we were surprised to know we were going on a strawberry-picking adventure. There was a strawberry field just a short drive away from the house and we were just in time for the last few days/weeks of strawberry harvesting.

Kelvin and Shane making their way to pick some strawberries

Mother and son tandem strawberry pickers

having a taste of them strawberries - fresh and sweet!

jumping from plot to plot to get the reddest strawberries

counting the strawberries

small, medium and large strawberries, we love them all!

seriously picking his fruits

come and have a bite... It's sweet!

looking around for a better plot

handling them strawberries with care

yum, yum, yum

it's time to get our baskets weighed and pay for the strawberries we've picked.

Our kind host, Tita Ingrid (in white jacket) paid for all of them!

the kids enjoyed our trip to the strawberry fields

We drove back to the house, rested for a while and had our dinner, of course, with strawberries as dessert! It was only the first day and we were already having so much fun. There were still 20 days to look forward to and we couldn't wait for what's in store in the coming days.

Germany, we are very much ready to explore you!

Euro2011 Spring-Summer Holiday

2011-07-30T14:26:00.001+08:00

Early last year, we thought of having a European holiday. We plan to visit my sis-in-law (and her husband) who recently moved to Belgium, and her husband's parents in Germany. We still had plenty of time since our usual planning period is 6 months to one year. Only this time we won't be travelling (and planning) alone but with the company of in-laws from Hong Kong. That would mean 4 adults and 4 children plus 2 adults (already in Europe) equal to 12 people gallivanting around Europe!

It was a big challenge during the planning stage. We had to check with each other when was the most convenient (and free) time to travel. We also had to consider flight schedules and cheap hotels which can accommodate families. After several date and itinerary revisions (I think more than 5 "final" revisions), and almost not pushing through with the vacation at all (tickets getting more expensive, almost opting to just go to US), we've finally settled on the date, list of countries to visit (6 in total), as well as the final daily itinerary (which was of course semi-flexible taking note we were tagging along 4 kids).

Next on the agenda was to get cheap airline tickets. We have been monitoring Emirates for a few weeks but since we have only finalized the dates in Feb, we were not able to get the best flight with less waiting time during connection. We were hoping to get the non-stop flight from Singapore to Dubai, Dubai to Singapore, but settled with the one with one stop at Colombo (the best flight available during our time of booking). Another draw back with our flight is the long connection on the return flight from Dubai to Singapore. We have to wait for 7 hours at Dubai. But that's ok since we still saved on the airfare which was less than $5k for 2 adults and 2 children. We compared the airfare with the promos they have during travel fair and we got a good deal :)

Once we got our tickets, we prepared our documents for visa application. Since we were flying in/out Frankfurt, we decided to apply visa at the German Embassy. My SIL also suggested the German embassy as she has experienced applying a visa here and it was easier (in terms of procedures) compared to the embassies of the other countries we were visiting. Our very accommodating hosts in Germany (my SIL's in-laws) sent an official invitation letter as support to our visa application. Although this doesn't guarantee 100% approval of the visa, it gave us higher hopes of a positive result. Once we got hold of the document thru mail, we scheduled our appointment date online. We chose the date during a school holiday in March so the kids could come for personal appearance without being absent from school. The embassy official I spoke with informed me that the kids need to be present either during submission of application or during visa collection. We prepared the following documents as required by the embassy (both originals and photocopies):

application forms with photo according to biometric specifications
passports, IC, valid REP
letter from employer (confirming employment, the beginning of employment, monthly salary, the beginning of vacation and resumption of work)
for our kids, letter from school
proof of sufficient financial means of support (bank statement of the past three months)
printed e-ticket (return ticket Singapore-Frankfurt-Singapore)
rental car reservation
birth certificates of children
marriage certificate
official invitation letter from Germany
other financial documents

I suggest to print out the Tourist Visa checklist for a more organized arrangement of your application documents. Do take note that they indicate the visa fee in euros so better check with the embassy before going to your appointment date what is the equivalent in Singapore Dollar (or whatever your local currency is). Children pay lower visa fees. During our application we paid a total of SGD352 for 2 adults and 2 children ($106 per adult, $70 per child).

Day before the appointment date we purchased our travel insurance from NTUC Income. They offer cheap travel insurance with competitive benefits. We got the Classic plan, worldwide coverage for 21 days, for group of 4 persons which had a 15% discount.

During our appointment date, we brought all our documents, neatly filed. We headed to the German embassy which was at the Singapore Land Tower in Raffles Place a little bit earlier. Got our visitor pass from the security/information desk and took the lift to the 12th floor. They have a metal detection machine at the entrance. The security guard at the embassy also has a list of all the appointments for the day. There were about 10 people waiting - some to get their visas, some applying for visas. I was a bit nervous (as usual during visa application), getting myself ready for any questions the embassy officials would ask. It was a local Chinese lady who was receiving the documents not a German official though. She was very thorough. I was observing, and listening to, the applicants before us. She was questioning every document, discrepancy in dates and other information. One of the applicants was sent to another embassy as the Chinese lady embassy employee deemed it was not logical for the person to apply in the German embassy because it was not his main destination. Another applicant was asked to produce additional documents. Then our names were called and we approached the counter (first one on the left is where documents are submitted). I prepared myself for a battery of questioning as we have a very long holiday scheduled. Good thing we weren't asked anything at all. I think the invitation letter helped a lot. We signed the kids' application forms in front of the official (as specified in the requirements page). Then we were given half an A4-sized paper for the collection date. It didn't specify though if the visa was approved or not. We didn't want to be too over-confident.

When we got our visas approved and our passports collected (end March), we started booking our accommodations, mostly through booking.com. It has a good selection of cheap accommodations with free cancellations (please do check conditions). By second week of April, after changing one or 2 hotel sights, all of our accommodations have been reserved. Here are the accommodations we have:

5 nights in Gelnhausen, Germany - care of our very accommodating hosts (parents of brother-in-law)
4 nights in Brussels, Belgium at my sis-in-law's place
5 nights in Paris, France for Euro90 per nite for a family (1dbl + 2 sgl beds) - GIS Hotel at Neuilly-Plaissance (Zone 3)
2 nights in Thonon les Bains, France south of Lake Geneva for Euro66 per nite for a quad room (1dbl +1 sgl bed) - Le Relais du Fontany
2 nights in Interlaken, Switzerland for CHF140 per nite for a family room (1sgl + 1 dbl bed, shared bathroom) - Katy's B&B Lodge
2 nights in Sulz-Glatt, Germany near Black Forest for Euro90 per nite for family room (1dbl +1 sgl bed) - Zur Freystatt am Wasserschloss

Hubby also constantly checked, and revised the booking of our rental car. We booked with Hertz. We got a cheaper rate in the end (around Euro 511 for 21 days). Pick up and drop off point at Frankfurt International Airport. We initially thought of not getting a car when we are in Paris but found out that there is additional charge (around Euro100 depending on location) for different pick up and drop off points. So we decided to just rent the car all throughout the trip.

With all of the major travel reservations done, we finalized the daily itinerary. My SIL and BIL were in-charge of the Germany, Belgium and Amsterdam sight-seeing, while I planned for Paris, Switzerland and Black Forest. We tried to include the more popular tourist attractions for each country but lowered our expectations on what we could actually cover during the trip. By end of April, we were ready for the long-awaited dream vacation.

There were still some hiccups in the planning stage though, personally speaking. I almost didn't want to travel out of frustration until the very last minute. When going on a holiday I normally start packing 2 weeks before departure date. On this trip though, I didn't. I was gravely affected by my son's school results (I guess I expected too much). I was in no mood to pack. I was consoled by a close friend as well as by hubby. Well, there were right. I have been planning for this trip for one year, I shouldn't let all my hard work just go to waste. So I decided to make a big mental turn around, convinced myself that I could enjoy this whole trip without actually thinking of the not-so-good academic results, and focus on packing stuff and looking forward to a great holiday. I didn't discuss the results with my son and told him we will talk about it when we come back from the holiday. I didn't want to go on a holiday with a heavy heart, it might jinx the trip!

After last minute buying of necessary stuff (toiletries, gifts, etc), we were finally ready for our vacation. We left for the airport Thursday evening for our flight at 12am Friday.

Here is our 21-day itinerary:

Day 1 - Gelnhausen, Germany
Day 2 - Legoland, Germany
Day 3 - Heidelberg, Germany
Day 4 - Cologne, Germany
Day 5 - Frankfurt, Germany
Day 6 - Luxembourg then Brussels, Belgium
Day 7 - Day trip to Amsterdam, Netherlands
Day 8 - Belgium
Day 9 - Belgium
Day 10 - Paris, France
Day 11 - Paris, France
Day 12 - Paris, France
Day 13 - Versailles, France
Day 14 - Disneyland Paris, France
Day 15 - La Vallee Village, France (outlet shops) then to hotel south of Lake Geneva
Day 16 - Montreux, Switzerland
Day 17 - Geneva / Lausanne / Bern / Thun / Interlaken, Switzerland
Day 18 - Interlaken, Switzerland (Jungfrau - top of Europe)
Day 19 - Luzern / Zurich, Switzerland on the way to Sulz-Glatt, Germany
Day 20 - Black Forest day trip
Day 21 - flight back to Singapore

A Taste of Europe

2011-07-13T17:39:00.011+08:00

A dream vacation for almost everybody.................. now for us it became a reality.

For the nature-lovers and those who fancy the urban jungle.
A mix of ancient and modern architecture.
A fusion of cultures.
There's always something for everyone to explore.

Here's a glimpse of our family mid-year getaway (since I am not yet done with my 21-day blogs!).

spent a night admiring the Eiffel Tower

mirror lake at Schluchsee, Switzerland

an afternoon at the Chateau Chillon at Montreux

every kids' dreamland - Disneyland Paris

Pyramid at the Louvre

Palace of Versailles

magnificent Cologne Cathedral

while on board the Jungfraubahn to the Top of Europe

the gang finally reached the summit

That's all for now. I'll keep you posted!

Visa to New Zealand

2011-06-28T12:47:00.000+08:00

For residents of Singapore travelling to New Zealand, here are some info regarding visa application:

http://www.immigration.govt.nz/migrant/stream/visit/

Requirements:

you are in good health

you are of good character; and

the visa you are applying for matches your intentions for your visit.

Proof that you plan to leave New Zealand

Suitable proof may include:

actual travel tickets (confirmed or open-dated) out of New Zealand to a country which you have the right to enter; or
written confirmation from an airline or travel agency that onward travel has been booked and paid for.

Evidence of funds

proof that you have enough money to support yourself during your stay. This means you have a minimum of:

NZ$1000 per person per month of the visit, or
NZ$400 per person per month if accommodation has already been paid for – we will require proof of prepayment, such as hotel prepaid vouchers.

Acceptable evidence of sufficient funds can be demonstrated in the form of:

cash
travellers' cheques
bank drafts
recognised credit cards with sufficient credit available – it is recommended that visitors have an up-to-date credit card statement.

Other acceptable evidence is a declaration by an acceptable sponsor that they will pay for your accommodation and maintenance. See the Sponsorship for Temporary Entry (INZ 1025) PDF.

For information on visa fees: http://www.immigration.govt.nz/migrant/stream/visit/visitors/LinkAdministration/ToolboxLinks/officeandfeescalculator.htm?level=1

New Zealand High Commission
Ngee Ann City
Tower A, #15-06/10
391A Orchard Road
SINGAPORE 238873

Telephone +65 6235 9966
Facsimile +65 6733 9924
E-mail enquiries@nz-high-com.org.sg

Singapore Flyer 2011

2011-03-04T19:01:00.000+08:00

The Singapore Flyer is one of the latest "icons" of Singapore. It's the largest giant observation wheel in the world towering 165 meters above the city.

From our place (Sengkang), we took the North East Line to Dhoby Ghaut and transferred to the Circle Line to get to Promenade Station. From there it's a short walk to the Flyer.

Getting the McDonald's 1-for-1 stub from its monopoly promo was a big factor in our adventure to ride this giant wheel. While queuing for our tickets, a ticketing officer was already checking each guest for the number of tickets they want to buy. We found out later on that we qualify for additional 20% off for the kids' tickets since I have a Passion Card. Sweet! That means we pay for $29.50 only for the 2 adult tickets and $33.04 for the kids (originally $20.65 each). That I say is a really good deal.

On our way to the Flyer boarding gate, Ira was a bit concerned. Looking at how big the wheel is from below, he felt scared. I reassured him that it's going to be ok since he has already taken a ride at cable cars going up to heights higher than that of the Flyer.

making our way to the capsule boarding area

it's like going to a cinema, it was dark!

the light at the end of the tunnel

patiently waiting for our capsule

We've seen some capsules which have table settings (probably for formal functions like wedding receptions) and some capsules with crystals and a bar! What a unique way to celebrate a birthday.

finally, we are on board

Each of the capsules is UV-protected for optimum comfort and safety, knowing how hot it can be in Singapore. Although each capsule can accommodate up to 28 people, the ushers don't cramp up the capsules. I think there were less than 20 of us in the capsule.

I don't know why they were sitting down, really.

each capsule has a middle sitting area which makes it a comfortable place to be

even when you are 165 meters high

Ira posing for photo with the Marina Bay Sands new development at the back

the kids preferred to just sit on the floor to have a better view

finally, a smile on his face

a view of the Marina Barrage from the top of the flyer

the Fullerton Hotel

the Esplanade

the Sky Park

we were now officially on top of Singapore

with the view of the city skyline

15 minutes on the Flyer and we were taken to the top to have a 360-view of Singapore.

Another 15 minutes and we were back to earth :)

Singapore Flyer

30 Raffles Avenue

Singapore 039803

Open Daily from 830am to 1030pm

Ticket prices: $29.50 Adult / $20.65 Child (age 3-12)

30 minute ride

Nearest MRT: Promenade Station (Circle Line)

19 things NOT TO MISS in Paris

2011-02-17T09:25:00.000+08:00

Source: Rough Guide to Paris (12 ed. February 2010)

1. NOTRE DAME CATHEDRAL - mighty gothic cathedral with its exquisite rose windows and soaring nave, is an awe-inspiring sight

2. BRASSERIES - exquisite belle epoque interiors, enormous platters of seafood, perfect steaks and bustling white-aproned waiters. The city's traditional brasseries offer an authentic slice of Parisian llife.

3. EIFFEL TOWER - the closer you get to its radical structure, the more exhilarating and less familiar the Eiffel Tower feels

4. PUCES DE ST-OUEN - it's easy to lose track of an entire weekend morning browsing the acres of fine antiques, covetable curios and general bric-a-brac at St-Ouen, the mother of Paris's flea markets

5. SUNDAYS IN THE MARAIS - the twin attractions of "le brunch" and the chance to do some designer shopping make a relaxed Sunday to visit to the Marais a must in every trendy Parisian's week

6. VAUX-LE-VICOMTE - Paris is ringed by splended chateaux, all easily reachable on a day-trip. Versailles may be the grandest, but Vaus-le-Vicomte is built on a more charming, inviting and human scale - and is far less crowded.

7. ART-HOUSE CINEMAS - with everything from old Hollywood classics to avant-garde international cinema, Paris is one of the world's best cities to catch a film on the big screen.

8. PASSAGES - nineteenth century arcades are gradually being restored to their former glory and are a fertile hunting ground for curios and one-off buys.

9. PERE-LACHAISE - pay homage to Chopin, Oscar Wilde or Jim Morrison - just some of the countless notables buried in what is arguably the world's most famous cemetery.

10. SITE DE CREATION CONTEMPORAINE - if you're tired of galleries that feel like mausoleums for the dead art of the past, make for this chic, Bohemian gallery, which showcases the exciting work of contemporary artists.

11. JARDIN DU LUXEMBOURG - the oasis of the Left Bank. Students hang out on the lawns , old men play chess under the trees and children sail toy yachts around the pond.

12. POMPIDOU CENTRE - the Pompidou's radical "inside-out" architecture still draws the crowds, but don't miss its fine modern art museum inside, with significant works by Matisse, Kandinsky and Picasso.

13. PLACES DES VOSGES - a superb architectural ensemble, the elegant Place des Vosges is lined with arcaded seventeenth-century buildings and has an attractive and popular garden at its centre.

14. MUSEE JACQUEMART-ANDRE - this sumptuous Second Empire residence, built for the art-loving Jacquemart-Andre couple, is preserved more or less intact, complete with its fabulous collection of Italian, Dutch and French masters.

15. LEFT BANK CAFES - the cafes of St-Germain and Montparnasse may have swamped writers, artists and existentialists for fashionistas and glitterati, but they remain gloriously Parisian institutions.

16. MUSEE RODIN - elegance matched with passion. Rodin's powerful works are shown off to their best advantage in the sculptor's beautiful eighteenth-century mansion.

17. SAINTE-CHAPELLE - the glorious interior of the Sainte-Chapelle, with its almost entirely stained-glass walls, ranks among the finest achievements of French High Gothic.

18. HAMMAM AT THE PARIS MOSQUE - steam-baths, or hammams, are among the city's better-kept secrets. At the Paris mosque, you can bathe, have a massage, then drink mint tea in the tiled courtyard.

19. THE LOUVRE - if the brilliance of the Louvre's art collection doesn't bring you to your knees, the sheer scale of the place will.

Favorite Destinations

2011-02-16T12:15:00.018+08:00

Half Dome at Yosemite National Park, CA (2003)

San Francisco, California (2003)

Liberty Island, NY (2003)

Central Park, Manhattan NY (2003)

Boracay, Philippines (2005)

Two Peoples Bay, Albany, Western Australia (2006)

Rottnest Island, Western Australia (2006)

Short getaway at Nirwana Resort, Bintan, Indonesia (2007)

Potipot Island, Candelaria, Zambales (2008)

Phi Phi Island, Thailand (2008)

the sign says it all (2009)

Christchurch, New Zealand (2009)

Christchurch Gondola (2009)

Wanaka Toy Museum (2009)

Auckland (2009)

Applying for Schengen Visa

2011-01-14T17:39:00.000+08:00

When you live in Singapore and plan to travel to some European countires, you can apply visas to the following 25 countries under Schengen:

Austria

600 North Bridge Road #24-04/05 Parkview Square
188778
Singapore
Phone:
+65-6396-6350
+65-6396-6351
+65-6396-6352
Fax:
+65-6396-6340
Email:
singapore@austriantrade.org

Belgium

8 Shenton Way #14-01
Singapore 068811
tel: +65 6220 7677
fax: +65 6222 6976
e-mail:Singapore@diplobel.fed.be
Public opening hours:
Monday through Friday
8.30 AM to 12.30 PM
1.30 PM to 4.00 PM
Visa & Consular matters:
9.00 AM to 12.00 PM
http://www.diplomatie.be/singapore/default.asp?id=31&mnu=31

Czech Republic

7 Temasek Boulevard # 18-02, Suntec City Tower 1, Singapore 038987
www.mzv.cz/singapore/
http://www.myczechrepublic.com/embassy_visa/czech_visa.html

Denmark

101 Thomson Road
# 13-01, United Square
Singapore 307591
Tel. +65 6355 5010
Fax +65 6253 3764

Embassy:
sinamb@um.dk
http://www.ambsingapore.um.dk/en/menu/ConsularServices/Visa/

Estonia

Finland

101 Thomson Road
#21-03 United Square, Singapore 307591
Tel. +65-6254 4042
E-mail: sanomat.sin@formin.fi
http://www.finland.org.sg

France

http://www.ambafrance-sg.org/
101-103 Cluny Park Road
SINGAPORE 259595
Phone: (65) 68 80 78 00
Fax: (65) 68 80 78 01

Germany

Embassy of the Federal Republic of Germany
#12-00 Singapore Land Tower
50 Raffles Place
Singapore 048623
T: (+65) 6533 6002
F: (+65) 6533 1132
http://www.singapur.diplo.de

Greece

896 Dunearn Road
#04-08 Sime Darby Centre
Singapore 589472
Singapore
City: Singapore
Phone: (+65) 68751205
Fax: (+65) 68751206
Email: hellenic@pacific.net.sg
Office Hours: 10.00 am - 5.00 pm

Hungary

250 North Bridge Road, #29-01 Raffles City Tower
Singapore
179101
Phone:
+65-68830882
+65-68831448
Fax:
+65-68830177
Email:
hunemsin@singnet.com.sg

Iceland

67 Grange Road #02-02
Grange Road Apartments
P.O. Box 2008
Tanglin Post Office
91249
City: Singapore
Phone: (65) 732 2697
Fax: (65) 732 3587
Email: psmchin@singnet.com.sg

Italy

101, Thomson Road #27-02
United Square Singapore 307591
Tel +65 62506022
Fax +65 62533301
e-mail: ambasciata.singapore@esteri.it

Consular Section - Opening Hours to the public:
Monday, Wednesday and Friday: 09:30 - 11:30
Tuesday and Thursday: 14:00 - 15:30
http://www.ambsingapore.esteri.it/ambasciata_singapore

Latvia

Consulate of Latvia in Singapore, Singapore send edits
27, Moulmein Rise, no. 10-29,
Grand Tower, Singapore 308140

Lithuania

Luxembourg

65 Chulia Street, #41-08 OCBC Centre, Singapore 049513
Tel: (65) 6533-3444

Malta

10 Anson Road # 15-01/02 International Plaza, Singapore 079903
Tel: (65) 6324-2060

Netherlands

541 Orchard Road #13-01
Liat Towers
238881

Singapore

Contact
Telephone	(+65) 6737 1155
Fax	(+65) 6737 1940
E-Mail	sin@minbuza.nl

Opening hours
Opening hours of the consular section: Monday to Friday 09.00 - 13.00 hrs. You can contact the Embassy by telephone from: Monday to Friday 08.30 - 17.00 hrs. To apply for a visa, passport or legalisation, please make an appointment on our website. Visa hours by telephone: Monday to Friday 15.00 - 16.00 hrs only at tel: (+65) 6737 1155

http://singapore.nlembassy.org/

Norway

16 Raffles Quay, #44-01 Hong Leong Building, Singapore 048581
Tel: (65) 6220-7122

Poland

435 Orchard Rd #10-01/02 Wisma Atria Singapore 238877
Tel: (65) 6734-0466

Portugal

55 Waterloo Street #09-03A Singapore 187954
Tel: (65) 6334-1231

Slovak Republic

Slovenia

Embassy of Slovenia in Singapore
50 Raffles Place, 32 floor 48623
Singapore
Tel: +65-6-2397522
Fax: +65-6-5325201

Spain

7 Temasek Boulevard. Suntec City Tower One # 39-00. Singapore 038987.
Phone: 6725 9220.
Phone from Spain: 65 6725 9220
Fax: (65) 6333 3025 y 6336 0130.
E-mail: emb.singapur@maec.es
http://www.maec.es/Subwebs/Embajadas/singapur/en/home/Paginas/home.aspx

Sweden

TripleOne Somerset
111 Somerset Road #05-01
Singapore 238164
Phone: +65-6415 9720
Fax: +65-6415 9747
E-mail: ambassaden.singapore
@foreign.ministry.se
Visiting hours:
Monday - Friday
09.00-12.00
http://www.swedenabroad.com/Page____7459.aspx

Switzerland

1 Swiss Club Link
Singapore 288162
Tel.: +65 6468 5788
Fax: +65 6466 8245
Mail: sin.vertretung@eda.admin.ch

Opening hoursMonday-Friday 09:00-12:00
(afternoon by appointment only)
Saturday, Sunday and Public Holidays closed
http://www.eda.admin.ch/singapore

Wild Wild Wet, Singapore 2010

2010-09-02T16:05:00.000+08:00

Who says you need to go out of the country to have fun? We had a blast yesterday when we visited Wild Wild Wet (W3, my own short form). It was a midweek holiday (Teacher's Day) and we got free tickets to the water park. The last time we've been there I think was years ago.

Since it was a holiday, we wanted to get there early cause we were expecting a big crowd. We took the bus to Pasir Ris Interchange and took another bus to get to Downtown East where 3 is located. You can actually walk from the bus interchange to Downtown East but we didn't want to waste energy and walk under the hot sun.

Downtown East is just a bus stop away from the interchange so we were quite fast. We haven't been there for some time so everything was almost new to us. There were lots of new shops and eating places. As we made our way to W3, we looked for a place to eat breakfast. We stopped at Burger King to grab something to eat.

at the entrance. The kids couldn't wait to get inside.

When we got to W3, there were not really that much people (we were early though). We changed into our swimsuits right away, and put the rest of our stuff in the locker. The locker is $2 and is good for one-time use. We just brought with us some money for lunch and snacks.

Here's a map of the theme park. We've explored almost all of the rides and attractions except the SkyRider which was not working (I think).

We didn't waste time and plunged in to the first attraction in sight - Yakult Professor's Playground. This is safe for younger kids as it's only 0.3 metres deep. The simplest description of this area is a playground in a wading pool. There are slides of different heights, some with simple twists and turns. There are ladders, water cannons and fountains for the kids (and kids at heart) to play with.

Ira posing inside the water spray arch

the water's a bit cold

We were following Ira as he climbed and ran around the playground. We couldn't keep up!

It was such a big play area. There were 2 straight slides (blue and pink) at the back end and

there were 2 slides with some twists and turns on the left side of the playground. Ira explored

the area on his own. He had so much fun.

The most awaited event at the playground is when the bucket gets full and splashes

to the people waiting below. The bell rings as warning that it's almost time for the big splash

then the people start running in front of the playground - the splash zone.

the kids playing around on the way to Shiok River

At first, Ira was hesitant to the Shiok River. I think he was a bit scared of riding the tube. But he got the hang of it after a while.

SHIOK RIVER is 335 metres long and surrounds most part of the water park. There were different tube sizes for people to ride on. The green is for smaller kids, the white is for bigger kids/adults and there is the yellow tandem tube.

Ira loved the tandem tube

it's nice to float around and relax

Kelvin tube-surfing?

drifting away

Ira trying different stunts on the tube

change partners. I think this was already our 3rd or 4th round.

relaxing...

Ira got tired of the tubes after the nth round so he got off the tube and swam.

The current was a bit strong though. He was being pushed forward.

After going around and around the Shiok River, we finally decided to give it a break and go to the next attraction, the TSUNAMI. It gives the experience of being in the sea where there are waves for people to enjoy in the safety of a pool setting. No dangerous currents or sudden dips to worry about.

waiting for the waves to come

Younger kids can play at the edge of the wave pool as it is shallow enough while the older, more adventurous ones can explore the farther, deeper end of the pool, the better place to enjoy the waves.

Kelvin was confident enough to ride the waves on his own.

There is a sound alarm before they activate the waves. Then the life guards ring the bell as final warning (the better term I think is "call" since people start flocking there once they here the bell). Since there was a long interval between each wave activity, we decided to go to the nearby attraction.

the JACUZZI is a small, shallow pool (about 70 cm) with fluid jets, just as any jacuzzi would have been.
But the waterfall was the more attractive feature for the kids.

Ira loved swimming across the waterfalls, pretending to dive into the water.
As you can see, the water level is only up to his neck.

Kelvin, more serious in his photographs. He liked the big slide rides/attractions better

Next up, was the SLIDE UP - Mark and Kelvin were brave enough to try it this time. They had to carry the tandem tube around 4 storeys up and then ride the tube down on a steep plunge.

Mark and Kelvin on their way to the launch area.

Ira and I waited downstairs while the 2 prepared for the ride of their lives

and down they go!

The lifeguards don't allow others to go near the exit area so I had to take this picture outside the railings.

it was a quick ride. They seemed to enjoy it, but not too much to repeat it :)

I guess it was not that scary since hubby was still able to carry the tube down...

and Kelvin is still smiling.

It was already past 1pm and we got a bit hungry. The kids won't really notice they're hungry unless you ask them They were more concerned about what attraction to try next.

We decided to have Subway sandwich for lunch. Subway has a small shop inside Wild Wild Wet so we didn't need to go out. The kids just breezed through their lunch and were eager to go back to the water. The adults, on the other hand, were more interested in lounging for a while.

back to the wave pool to rest while the kids started playing again

Ira shooting water on passersby who were in the Shiok River

we were back into the tubes at Shiok River after some time.

This was also a good way to rest, if not for the hot sun.

shower break at the wave pool

We went on the more adventurous rides like the Water Works and Ular-lah.

WATER WORKS is a body slide, high-speed flume ride. I suggest for you to take the yellow, open tube first before the purple, enclosed tube. The purple was scarier cause once you're in, it's total darkness. If you're claustrophobic, it might not be a good ride for you. Kelvin loved the slides that he went on a few slides all by himself. He had more energy climbing the stairs to get to the tubes. And I guess he liked the thrill of sliding down.

Kelvin in one of his slides

ULAR-LAH, on the other hand, is a raft slide. The first one of it's kind in Southeast Asia. It's like going on the rapids. Ira didn't want to ride this the first time we went up earlier in the day. He was so firm to say NO. He was scared and didn't want to admit it. But we were able to talk him into it (or should I say, carry him into the boat) in the afternoon. Then he realized how fun it was and asked us to do it 3 more times!

waiting for our boat. During this time, Ira was still not yet convinced to take the ride.

Ira was trying to get comfy and starting to loosen up a bit.

now he was enjoying the ride...

the boys couldn't wait to get back up and go for another ride...

back for another ride... for the 3rd time!

After the last ular-lah ride, it was relaxation time at the wave pool.

cooling down before we head home

the effect of having fun under the sun for the whole day

the kids were pretty tired at the end of the day. You can see it in their faces.

Wild Wild Wet was a fun experience for all of us. It was a good break from school and work and the usual routine. The kids can't wait to go back there again.

Here are some information about Wild Wild Wet:

Official website

www.wildwildwet.com

Tickets cost

$15.50 for adults

$10.50 for children (3-12yrs old)

$42.00 for family (2adults and 2 children)

FREE for senior citizens (55yrs old and above)

Opening Hours

Mon, Wed, Thu & Fri 1pm - 7pm

Sat, Sun, Gazetted School & Public Holidays 10am - 7pm

Closed on Tuesdays except during Gazetted School & Public Holidays

10-minute walk from Pasir Ris MRT Station

By Bus: 3, 5, 6, 12, 17, 21, 89, 354, 358

New Zealand in 2009

2010-08-27T13:16:00.000+08:00

Travel Dates: November 23 to December 9, 2009

Visa: FREE for Filipinos. Passed application July30 as it was specified in the website that it takes around 12 weeks for processing, only to be told that for PRs it only takes 10 days. Since visa is valid for 3 months only upon issuance, Mark was told to come back around October. He asked if he could just leave the application and wait for the approval when already processed. They allowed it. Aug5, embassy called to inform that our visas were approved, but we could only bring out passports to get our visas sometime in Oct (because of the 3 months validity). OCT 14 we got our visa stickers on our passports.

Flights:

International Flight / Singapore Airlines -- used krisflyer miles and paid only travel taxes (yippppeeee!)

Singapore to Christchurch - SQ297 (1945/1030+1) = taxes $564 for 4 persons

Auckland to Singapore - SQ286 (1325/1855) = taxes $572 for 4 persons

Domestic Flight / Pacific Blue -- Flight No DJ3097 (Blue Saver*)

Christchurch to Auckland

DEPARTING Christchurch Domestic 0930hr (09:30am), Fri 04 Dec 2009

ARRIVING Auckland Domestic 1050hr (10:50am), Fri 04 Dec 2009

NZD 378.90 - around NZD90 per person + 2 persons with check in baggage (we paid NZD10 per person with baggage)

Travel Insurance

AXA Comprehensive (Asia) Coverage Family Plan = $230

Car rental:

OMEGA -- NZD585 - for 15 days rental

Hire Charge: NZ$39.00 per day, including GST, insurance and unlimited kilometres. Excluding first NZ$1000.00 of any damage (insurance excess).

a) Pick up - Christchurch Aiport - November 24

Drop off - Christchurch Airport - December 4

10 days @ $390

b) Pick up - Auckland Airport - December 4

Drop off - Auckland Airport - December 9

5 days @ $195

Hotels / Accommodation

Christchurch -- HOLIDAY INN CITY CENTRE

Cashel and High Street

Christchurch, 8001 New Zealand

Hotel Front Desk: 64-3-3658888

Hotel Fax: 64-3-3645143

- 2nights (Nov 24 and Dec 3) FREE (used points, worth NZD394)

Franz Josef -- Franz Josef Top 10 Holiday Park

2902 Franz Josef Highway, New Zealand

Ph: +64 3 752 0735 | Fax: +64 3 752 0035

if you are in New Zealand call toll free on 0800 46 78 97

Email: bookings@mountain-view.co.nz

- 2 nights (Nov 25-27) - NZD150/night = total NZD300

Queenstown -- CROWNE PLAZA

Beach Street, Queenstown 9300 New Zealand

Hotel Front Desk: 64-03-4410095

Hotel Fax: 64-03-4428895

- 2 nights (Nov 27-29) - 1 night for 60,000points + NZD30= NZD60 (worth NZD510)

Te Anau -- FIORDLAND HOTEL MOTEL

91 Luxmore Drive

Te Anau

New Zealand

Ph +64 3 249 7511

Fax +64 3 249 8944

information@fiordlandhotel.co.nz

- 2 nights (Nov29–Dec1)- NZD110/night = total NZD220

Lake Tekapo -- Lake Tekapo Motels and Holiday Park

2 Lakeside Drive, Lake Tekapo, New Zealand

E: info@laketekapo-accommodation.co.nz

P: 03-680-6825

F: 03-680-6824

- 1 night (Dec2)= NZD170

Mt Cook -- Aoraki/Mt Cook Alpine Lodge

Tony & Adele Delaney

PO Box 39 Mount Cook

P 64 3 4351860

F 64 3 4351863

M 0274361685

admin@aorakialpinelodge.co.nz

www.aorakialpinelodge.co.nz

- 1 night (Dec1)= NZD195

Auckland -- CROWN PLAZA

128 Albert Street PO Box 6841 Auckland 1030 New Zealand

Hotel Front Desk: 64-9-3021111

Hotel Fax: 64-9-3023111

For Reservations: 1800 787 1221

- 2nights (Dec4-5, Dec8-9) - 1 night for 30,000points + NZD60 = NZD120 (worth NZD300)

Rotorua --SUDIMA HOTEL Lake Rotorua

1000 Eruera Street, Rotorua , New Zealand

Phone: +64 7 348 1174

Facsimile: +64 7 346 0238

Reservations Freephone: 0800 Sudima (0800 783462) – NZ

e-mail: reservations@sudimarotorua.co.nz

www.sudimarotorua.co.nz

- 3nights breakaway package NZD80/night = NZD240

ITINERARY (please click on the daily links for more details):

November 23 – December 9, 2009
16 days / 15 nights

Date/Day -- Itinerary

Nov23 Day0

-- Singapore to Christchurch SQ297 (1945/1030+1)

Nov24 Day1

-- ETA Christchurch 1030am. Visited Christchurch attractions.

Nov25 Day2

-- Christchurch to Arthur’s Pass (153kms/2hrs)

Arthur’s Pass to Hokitika (93.6kms/1.5hrs)

Hokitika to Scenic Reserve (33kms/30mins)

Hokitika Reserve to Franz Josef (167kms/3.5hrs)

Nov26 Day3

-- Franz Josef for 2 days. Visited Fox Glacier, Lake Matheson and Franz Josef Glacier.

Nov27 Day4

-- drove to Queenstown for a 2 night stay.

Franz Josef to Haast Pass (180kms/2.5hrs)

Haast Pass to Wanaka (30.3kms/45mins)

Wanaka to Queenstown (68.7kms/1.5hrs)

Nov28 Day5

TSS Earnslaw Cruise. Sight-seeing at Queenstown.

Nov29 Day6

Drove to Glenorchy for a glimpse of paradise.

Drove to Te Anau (172kms/2.5hrs) for 2 nights stay.

Nov 30 Day 7

Drove to Milford Sound (117kms/2hrs) for a cruise tour package.

Dec 1 Day 8

Drove to Arrowtown (178kms/2.5hrs) on the way to Mt Cook.

Arrowtown to Twizel (187.6kms/2.5hrs)

Twizel to Mt Cook (64.4kms/1hr). Stayed in Mt Cook for one night only.

Dec 2 Day 9

Sir Edmund Hillary Museum at Hermitage Hotel.

Tasman Glacier and Hooker Valley.

Drove to Lake Tekapo (105kms/1.5hrs) and stayed for one night.

Dec 3 Day 10

Lake Tekapo to Christchurch via Inland Scenic Route 72 (137kms/2hrs).

Antarctic Centre

Dec 4 Day 11

Flew to Auckland via Pacific Blue

Dec 5 Day 12

Auckland to Rotorua via Hot Beach.

Auckland to Hot Beach (177kms/3hrs). Visited Cathedral Cove as well.

Hot Beach to Rotorua (201kms/3hrs) for 3 nights stay.

Dec 6 Day 13

Rotorua - Whakarewarewa, Buried Village, Blue Lake, Government Gardens

Dec 7 Day 14

Rotorua - Wai-o-tapu, Agroventures, Gondola/luge

Dec 8 Day 15

Rotorua to Auckland. Skytower.

Dec 9 Day 16

Auckland to Singapore (1325/1855)

Planning Stages:

one year before departure -- I started planning for NZ around late last year (2008), checking out brochures, listing interesting attractions, estimating length of trip.

6-10 months before departure -- shortlisted attractions. Made tentative itineraries (i have made around 10 revisions i think).

4-6months before departure -- shortlisted accommodations. Continued checking for attractions and activities. Passed visa application. Booked international flight (using SQ krisflyer miles) but the return leg was on waitlist. Mapped out destinations using google earth.

2-4months before departure -- visa approved 5 days after passing application. Problems with google earth. I was so devastated because I have already finished putting up most of the attractions we need to visit. With this catastrophe in hand, i decided to just make a travel journal. It will come in handy. It might not be as specific as the maps at google earth, but i know it will not crash on me or get some destinations deleted accidentally or not saved automatically.

We almost scrapped NZ trip because the dates we wanted were not available. There were dates going out of Singapore but no more flights coming back. So we thought of going to Eastern Aussie instead. A few weeks after, hubby checked SQ flights again and was able to see some flights. This journey though, would take us to Christchurch and we would be leaving from Auckland on the return leg. Well, better than nothing at all. The trip now was adjusted to be closer to the start of the school holiday.

1-2months before departure date -- booked car rental services, hotel accommodations, domestic flight. Got NZ visa chops on our passports. Checked if we have 2 pieces of checked in luggage only to find out that we only have one that is in working condition. The others have busted wheels! Now we have to buy one more luggage! We also bought jackets, bonnets and gloves for the kids.

We bought another DSLR camera (Canon 500D, secondhand) as back up. We learned from our Australia trip that we really need a back up camera -- our camera then stopped working on the 2nd day! and it was BRAND NEW! Good thing we had a spare camera (point and shoot) Canon powershot. So this time around, with all the scenery we wanted to capture, we made sure we had 2 DSLR cameras as a precaution (aside from 1 point and shoot and 1 camcorder :) ).

4weeks before departure -- finalized daily itinerary. Booked tour arrangements. Paid travel taxes for our Singapore/Christchurch flight and had our tickets issued. Bought some raincoats. Based on most travel books we need to have one in hand for some sudden changes in weather. It came in really handy as we were able to use it for those unexpected rainy days.

2weeks before departure -- checked bills to be paid and settled them.

1 week before departure -- double checked all travel documents and made copies. Started packing (we need to have only 23kg per luggage for the domestic flight). Made final bookings for tours (Milford Sound and TSS Earnslaw cruises). Printed itinerary, travel documents, air tickets, hotel bookings, etc. Bought travel insurance. Paid for travel taxes for our Auckland/Singapore tickets and had them issued.

Estimated costs/expenses while in New Zealand

Average cost of gas = 1.689 per litre
Average cost for fastfood meal (for 2 persons on a budget) = NZ$15
Attractions/admission fees (family) = from NZ$15 to NZ$1,500 (helicopter ride, which we were not able to take due to bad weather)

Day 8 - Bangkok, Thailand (2006)

2010-08-11T17:35:00.000+08:00

Our last 2 days in Thailand. We checked out from Novotel Bang-na and transferred to Bangkok Palace near the city centre. Then we headed to Chatuchak Market to see what the fuzz was all about. They said this is the place to be if you wanted to get good, cheap stuff so I was quite excited to go shopping.

We took the cab to Chatuchak. When we arrived there, we saw this massive market we weren't sure where to start. We walked around to check if we could see anything interesting to buy.

the busy market street

stopped by to get a drink

While the boys were outside trying to cool down, I was busy shopping for cheap clothes.

But some of the clothes weren't really that cheap. We saw some sleeveless tops that go for around $5-$6 (converted rate), well I could get a branded (Hang Ten) top for the same price in Singapore.

I was choosing between the dress and the skorts. I ended up buying the skorts for 250 baht.

We were also able to buy wooden elephants at 100 baht for 4 pieces, a slightly bigger elephant for 100baht, and an elephant spag strap for me 240baht.

For travellers with kids, I don't really recommend bringing the kids over. It's really hot and the place is really crowded. Our kids had to experience this though. Once is enough, won't do it again :)

After Chatuchak, we headed to MBK (Mah Boon Krong) to compare prices (yep we did). We found out some of the shirts there are even cheaper than in Chatuchak. And it's aircon :)

last minute shopping for "pasalubong" - something to give to friends back home

our checking out family pic

and another one...

Then we were off to the airport. We took a cab and paid 170baht.

Ira walking around the plane

thinking of something crazy????

we're almost home!

Our Bangkok holiday is over. We had fun especially during the Kanchanaburi tour. Will probably explore other parts of Thailand next time.

Novotel Bang-na, Thailand (2006)

2010-08-11T17:15:00.000+08:00

We spent the next few days in the hotel and just visited some malls nearby. "Rest days" for me and the kids.

changing the channels and looking for something interesting

buddy time for the two

the boys were trying to entertain themselves. Nothing much to do in the hotel room.

view from our hotel room

doesn't it look "holy"?

we were like prisoners trying to find a way out. Or more like tourists figuring out where to go and what to do next.

And we did find something to do. We saw that there was a pool on the mid-level of the hotel. The kids, of course, were so eager to swim. We waited for Mark to come home and prepared ourselves for a dip in the pool.

it's not a very big pool, but it will do

Kelvin enjoying every minute in the pool - even though it was a bit cold

pool time's over. You can see how sad my little one was.

We didn't want to go out anymore so we decided to order food (room service).

of course, I ordered Thai Fried Rice. I can't get enough of this food!

Day 3 - Bangkok, Thailand in 2006 (Grand Palace)

2010-08-11T17:00:00.000+08:00

Today we were supposed to have a half-day tour to the floating market. We woke up early, brought kids down to have breakfast, and waited for our pick up at the lobby. We should have left the hotel by 630am, latest 7am. Unfortunately, after around 30minutes of waiting, there was no pick up. I was so furious I called the travel agency to check on them. It happens that there was some miscommunication on their side and they said they will go back and pick us up. Hello?! For what? It was already a few hours after the pick up time. I told them that we are not going on the trip again and that they need to refund our payment ASAP. What a way to start the day.

Since we didn't have anything scheduled for this morning, we changed our itinerary. Grand Palace grounds in the morning then check out and leave for Bang-na earlier than planned. We tried to be adventurous and walked our way to the Grand Palace, under the hot sun. I had to wear jeans, by the way, since I found out that shorts are not allowed inside the temples.

waiting to make our way to the ticket counter

bunch of tourists (local and international) who were visiting the palace grounds

Had the first glimpse of one of the buildings inside the compound. The Grand Palace is Bangkok's famous landmark. It is the official residence of the Kings of Thailand since the 18th century except for the present King (wikipedia source). It is made up of a complex of buildings which houses the Emerald Buddha, the Reclining Buddha and other temples.

Entrance to the Grand Palace was 500baht (excluding Wat Pho, 100 baht).

one of the first few structures we saw inside the complex

posing with one of the mythological giants guarding the temples

the Temple of the Emerald Buddha (Wat Phra Kaew)

This is the most important Buddhist temple in Thailand. It houses the Emerald Buddha which was believed to be carved from a single block of jade. No one is allowed near the Buddha except the King.

standing outside one of the temples

posing with the statues on the Emerald Buddha Temple

doing some restoration work in one of the walls of the temples

Ira was finally in the mood, even under the scorching heat

two giant guard statues

one of the "human" guards around the palace

Wat Phra Keow

inside the Temple of the Reclining Buddha - Wat Pho

Buddha's toes

feet made of mother of pearls

Birthplace of the traditional Thai massage. This temple houses the massive Reclining Buddha, so huge we couldn't get a whole picture of it!

doing it the Amazing Race style...

After a few hours, we have finally covered most of the Grand Palace sights. But we were not yet done with the temples in the city. We still had one last temple in mind - Wat Arun or the Temple of Dawn.

To get there, we needed to cross the street and get as close as possible to the Chao Phraya River. We didn't plan to enter the temple. Seeing it from across the river was ok. We passed by a market and made our way through some storage areas and finally found an alleyway to the edge of the river.

a view of the Wat Arun

hot and exhausted

the busy Chao Phraya River - a major thoroughfare in Bangkok

couple pic with Wat Arun. We're dead beat tired at this time.

finally, we are back to the hotel. We still had a few last-minute packing to do and we were off to another hotel, in Bang-na.

Kanchanaburi, Thailand in 2006

2010-08-11T15:44:00.000+08:00

On our second day in Thailand, we went on a private guided tour to Kanchanaburi . We booked this tour ("Erawan Pure Fun" - a full day tour) online from Good Times Travel (www.good-times-travel.com) for USD210. Quite costly, but we wanted to maximize our time in Thailand and taking this tour turned out to be the more efficient alternative (considering other tour options available).

A private van picked us up from the hotel in the early morning for a 3-hr drive to Kanchanaburi. We had a tour guide so it was a very informative trip. Upon arriving at Kanchanaburi, we passed by their office to get some supplies - water - then headed to our first stop which was Erawan Waterfalls National Park.

From the carpark, we were given the option to walk or ride a buggy. We decided to just take the buggy at 60baht. Good thing we did cause it can be quite a long walk up to the main entrance to the foot of the falls. And it was also a bit drizzling.

We arrived at this office where you are supposed to leave any bottles of water (to avoid tourists throwing trash around the park). Then we trekked to the mountain to reach the Erawan Falls which is one of the most beautiful falls in Thailand. It has 7 tiers and we were able to get to the 5th level.

this was the office where we left the water bottles

we stopped in one of the levels on the way up to the 5th tier

isn't it beautiful???

lucky Ira he didn't have to hike up to get to the falls.

It was not a steep hike but because of the rain, the footpaths are a bit slippery.

finally, we arrived at the 5th tier of the falls

there were already a lot of tourists taking a dip in the falls when we got there.

Our tour guide suggested we take a dip right away as more tourists will come later in the day. Kelvin tried wallowing in the water first. It was a bit cold. And there were small fish which seem to be biting you on the leg. I think these are the ones they call "spa fish".

Ira with our friendly tour guide

some of the rocks were a bit slippery so when we found a spot where we could sit and dip our legs, we just stayed there until the time we had to leave. It was really refreshing after a long drive and walk.

last few minutes of our waterfall adventure

We headed down to the parking lot for lunch afterwards. This was included in the cost of the tour. Of course, I was sooo happy to see one of my favorite Thai dishes - chicken and peanuts. Of course, there was the Thai fried rice, some chicken curry, etc. Yum yum!

Lunchtime was over and we were on our way to the elephant camp where we were to ride elephants and go bamboo rafting on the River Kwai.

entrance to the elephant camp

Ira was being handed over to me while I was sitting on the specially designed seat at the back of the elephant

I was a bit scared but excited. This was the first time for all of us to ride an elephant. They are really huge animals! Even compared with the camel which I got to ride on in Australia.

everything's settled. Good thing I brought the baby carrier, otherwise I would be wondering how I am going to carry Ira for the whole 30minute elephant ride!

making our way to the jungle

hold on tight! Our mahout just left us!

it was drizzling again. I had to hold the umbrella as well as support Ira.

Slow down, elephant.

the elephant ride brought us around the camp...

- to the feeding area where they showed us how strong the elephants were uprooting small shoots/trees

- to the work area where the elephants had to push and pull logs

- to the bathing area, the river....

it was quite scary when the elephants were making their way down the river.

I was thinking if they somehow slipped on the way down and fell over, we would probably be crushed!

Good thing they were good at balancing. The mahouts knew when to tell the elephants to slow down or pick up the pace.

making our way to the River Kwai where we would be going on a bamboo raft ride

he's happy alright... just a bit shaken :) Trying to hold on to dear life hahaha

on our bamboo rafting adventure on the River Kwai

Although I knew that bamboos are normally used as rafts, I was still a bit scared especially since it was raining and there was a part in the river where there was a whirlpool of sorts. The raft ride was around 30minutes. It was the longest 30minutes of my life, I think. It was scary but fun. The ride was so serene, we could only hear birds chirping and the raindrops on the river. There were times the raft man (the one maneuvering the raft) would tell us there might be some alligators on the river and we all got frightened. Good thing I think there really aren't any.

our bamboo rafting adventure was over. We were here waiting for our ride back to the main road.

while waiting we saw this "train" of bamboo rafts making its way back to the starting point beating the current. Goodluck!

After our nature adventure, our next stop was a train ride on the historical Death Railway.

while waiting for the train

still no train in sight

we are heading to that direction...

finally, the train is here!

Tourist came flocking to the train as if it was not dangerous to do so. We had to wait for our turn to board the train. Good thing we were still able to get some seats. I guess most of the other tourists wanted to stand up and walk around the train.

Kelvin enjoying the ride. This was another "first".

I had to sit down for this train ride. Ira is quite heavy to carry around.

He loved the train ride. We kept the windows a bit shut cause it was too windy.

one stop along the way

this is our stop. We got down and waited for our van to pick us up. Unfortunately, the van was not there yet. There was another group of tourists making a scene. I think their van left without them! We got scared that ours might not come in time or not come at all. But it did. Then we drove to the Bridge Over the River Kwai.

there was a train exhibit just before reaching the bridge and Kelvin couldn't wait to see it

so happy to see the train

as we made our way to the bridge, we could see group of tourists walking on the railway tracks. Mind you this is an operational track, and trains do come every now and then. Just make sure you are not ON the track when that happens.

anyway, there are "viewing areas" along the track, which I think can also be used as "escape route" in case a train suddenly comes :)

another view of the bridge with tourists

the entire length of the bridge taken from the side park

watching a floating restaurant pass by

floating restaurant just beside the bridge

our family pic before going back to Bangkok

We still had a few minutes to spare before departing for Bangkok. We visited the nearby market hoping to get some bargain. But I wasn't able to find anything that I like. So that was it. Our Kanchanaburi tour was over. I think it was good value for money since we had van all by ourselves, we didn't need to wait for anyone else. The tour guide and driver were both friendly and were constantly educating us throughout the tour.

I would recommend this tour to families, if budget is not a concern. Alternatively, there are other options. Same tour itinerary but with different mode of transpo or with a bigger crowd.

A Visit to the Singapore Zoo 2010

2010-06-22T12:27:00.000+08:00

It has been quite sometime since we last visited the Zoo (I think it was way back in 2008). This June school holidays was a great chance for us to revisit and check out the new additions and changes to the park.

From our place, we headed to Ang Mo Kio hub and took bus 138 to the zoo. It was around 30 minutes travel time. We arrived at the zoo around 11am and there was already a long queue. Good thing we didn't need to queue for the whole family. But we needed to buy one child ticket since our corporate pass is only good for 4 people :(

at the entrance of the zoo... ticket counter is to the right....

Ira was getting ready to take pictures of the animals to see in the zoo.

first subject, a parrot at the Rainforest Courtyard

a picture of mother and children (yes there are 2 baby monkeys riding mum's back) cotton-top tamarin.

Latest addition to the zoo family.

This monkey really knows how to pose for the tourists. It was just there when the people were swarming to take pictures. When all the people were gone, it also disappeared!

From the Rainforest Courtyard, we made our way to the Palm Park where the Siamang was supposed to be. Unfortunately, it was nowhere to be seen that day.

We then headed on to see the otters before passing through the Tiger Trek.

walking through the Ttiger trek

This was not a real tiger by the way. The area had a lot of these tiger cardboards.

stopped by to see some gibbons

Passed through Ah Meng Restaurant for bathroom break, then continued on to see the polar bears.

they were sleeping

We explored Wild Africa, but not after checking out the free ranging orang utan. We were there in time for feeding where the caretaker handed over (through a long stick) some plants to the orang utans. The animals then gathered together for the feast.

At Wild Africa we saw a variety of animals from a big flightless bird to a huge rhinoceros.

we just couldn't pass on getting a picture of this "hairy" bird

the kids taking a break at one of the wash areas which now are everywhere within the zoo.

a couple of rhinos who were about to challenge each other

a baby rhino walking around

while on the viewing area for the cheetah, we saw a dragonfly.

This specific one was the thin-tailed which we call "tutubing karayom" in Filipino.

Ira tried to hold it (or I think it was the dragonfly holding on to him).

the cheetah caught in a very compromising position (guess what it was trying to do)

the giraffe without its long legs

Ira can't get enough of taking the pictures of the animals he saw. Although some of his pictures were blurred, he enjoyed shooting as well as editing his pictures (on-site!).

The kids were eager to see the new Water Park (which I think is the main attraction for most kids). They kept on telling us to take a shorter route so we could reach there faster.

Finally, after a few more minutes of walking we arrived at the Rainforest KidzWorld. There was a Wild Animal Carousel, a shop, a pony ride and stables, kampung house and a variety of farm animals.

We decided to have lunch first before sending the kids to an afternoon of fun at the waterpark. We were able to find a table with benches under a big umbrella. The queue at KFC was quite long. It's recommended that if you pass by Ah Meng restaurant with less people, better have lunch there. We had a quick lunch and the kids were off to play.

Ira enjoyed the slides

under the big bucket

going up to the slides

taking a shower

they really enjoyed playing

at the water fountain

finally had enough of water play. It was then snack time and rest time.

The zoo was about to close (it was almost 530pm) but we were not even halfway finished exploring.

The kids saw this play area beside the waterpark and asked for us to check it out.

Ira loved climbing down from this spiral staircase

When they were done with the play area, Kelvin explored the surrounding area and saw this forest adventure place. It had a zip / flying fox.

Kelvin trying the zip

then again....

and again!

Ira was enticed to try the zip as well. We were a bit hesitant at first cause he might not be able to hold on properly. But after strict instructions to cross his legs and hang on tight, he was on his way down the zip line.

he seemed to enjoy it a lot

even tried for several times!

the boys tried all 3 zip lines

I might as well try it too

weeeeeeeeeeeeee

then it was daddy's turn....

one last try before leaving

and that was the end of it.

The boys said they wanted to go back and experience the zip again.

saying goodbye to the play area

The zoo was almost deserted. It was really closing time. We made our way looking for the exit. The shortest path from the kidzworld would be through Ah Meng Memorial.

with Ah Meng

We then passed through the Splash Safari to view the penguins (Ira's favorite)

posed with the sealions

Upon reaching the exit, we were not in a rush to take the bus as there were a lot of people waiting.

We sat in front of Ben & Jerry's for some ice cream.

the kids ordered 2 different flavors of ice cream - chocolate for Kelvin and cookie ice cream (cookies and cream) for Ira.

YUM!

The trip to the zoo was delightful. The kids enjoyed themselves a lot - seeing the animals and playing in the waterpark.

The Singapore Zoo is located at 80 Mandai Lake and is open daily from 830am to 600pm.

Transportation to the zoo is via

bus 138 from Ang Mo Kio Hub,
bus 927 from Choa Chu Kang MRT Station,
bus 926 (only on Sundays and Public Holidays) from Woodlans MRT station.

Adult tickets cost $18. Children ages 3 to 12 yrs old pay $12.

You have an option to purchase park hopper tickets if you plan to visit the Night Safari and/or Jurong Bird Park. A 2-in-1 ticket costs $32 for adults and $20 for children, while a 3-in-1 ticket costs $45 for adults and $28 for children. Tickets are valid for one month from date of purchase.

Attractions/rides include:

Boat Ride

830am-545pm
single trip $5 adults / $3 children
return trip $6 adults / $3.50 children
15 minute boat ride

Tram Ride

unlimited rides $5 adults / $3 children
covers 2.2kms with 3 stops

Wild Animal Carousel

900am to 600pm
$4 per person

Pony Ride

1000am to 500pm
$6 per child (3-12yrs old)

Horse Carriage Ride

1030am to 500pm
$6 per person

Elephant Ride

100-200pm, 430-530pm
$8 per person

For more details about the zoo, visit www.zoo.com.sg

NZ 2009 - Queenstown

2010-06-11T11:48:00.000+08:00

Here are our Gondola Ride postcard pics (NZD10).

NZ 2009 Day 16 - Farewell, New Zealand

2010-05-12T15:03:00.002+08:00

Our NZ holiday is finally over.

We checked out early from the hotel, drove the car back to the rental company and then took the shuttle to the airport.

check out picture....

Ira roaming around the airport....

on-board our flight back to Singapore.

Ira kept on walking around from one seat to another.

Kelvin was serious watching a movie.

GREAT BARRIER REEF as seen from above.

We were awaken by the announcement of the captain to look outside our windows for a glimpse of the reef.

We enjoyed the vacation so much but we still wanted more, esp from South Island where we missed a lot of good photo ops because of bad weather.

Total distance travelled = around 3060kms (driving distance only, excluding distance flown from South to North Island)

Day 1 - Christchurch

Day 2 - Christchurch to Franz Josef Glacier via Arthur's Pass (Alpine Traverse)

Day 3 - Glaciers

Day 4 - Glaciers to Queenstown via Crown Range (West Coast Touring Route - until Haast)

Day 5 - Queenstown

Day 6 - Queenstown to Te Anau, going to Glenorchy in the morning first

Day 7 - Te Anau to Milford Sound (part of Southern Scenic Hway)

Day 8 - Te Anau to Mt Cook, passing by Arrowtown (part of Southern Heritage Route )

Day 9 - Mt Cook to Lake Tekapo

Day 10 - Lake Tekapo to Christchurch via Inland Scenic Route (Hway 72)

Day 11 - fly from Christchurch to Auckland

Day 12 - Auckland to Rotorua, passing by Hot Beach, Coromandel (part of Pacific Coast Hway)

Day 13 to 14 - Rotorua

Day 15 - Rotorua to Auckland via Hway 1 (part of Thermal Explorer)

Day 16 - flight back to Singapore

Total expenses approximately $8,000 (excluding airfare and 6 nites hotel accommodation and some pre-planned activities), way below our budget so it was really good, we already have savings for the next trip!

Experiences I would treasure from our NZ trip:

- Hiking up to glaciers, all 3 of them (Franz Josef, Fox and Tasman)
- Playing with ice (hardened snow) along the road.
- Cruising along Milford Sound and getting wet with waterfall sprays.
- Seeing snow-capped mountains in summer.
- Of course, the unforgettable natural scenery.
- Geothermal villages in Rotorua.
- Freefall extreme and hagglund ride.
- Dipping in hot sand and water at Hot Beach, and also in the heated pool and geothermal spa.

Disappointments in NZ:

- Not able to see Mt Cook when we were already there in the village, at the foot of Mt Cook!
- No mirror lake views at Lake Matheson
- Very bad traffic in Auckland
- Ever changing weather
- Chickened out at zorbing

We will definitely go back to NZ.

For now, I'm glad to be back home. But a bit bummed with the hot weather. How I wish it was cold again :)

More details about our vacation to the youngest country New Zealand Trip planning

Genting Highlands in 2003

2010-04-26T17:23:00.000+08:00

(warning: some information is a bit blur to me now so please bear with me. This was written few years too late)

Short-weekend trip to Genting Highlands with the family and sis-in-law.

We took a very cheap tour package - return coach to Genting, one night First World Hotel accommodation with breakfast, cable car ride to bus terminal.

The bus trip took more than 6 hours. We had 2 stops on the way. One was at Yin something, and somewhere in KL.

When we finally arrived in Genting, it was a bit chilly (we were high up in the mountains, right). We headed to our hotel, only to find out that there was a VERY LONG queue for check ins. There was no way we were gonna get a room in just 15minutes. So we asked around on where we could leave our small luggage (for overnight only). We decided we could leave our things behind while we walk around the premises. We went to see the amusement park and the mini vegas style attractions of sorts. Had lunch at a fast food. And then headed back to the hotel reception to check in. Good thing the queue was shorter this time. We got our room keys, unpacked our things and headed back to where the action was - at the amusement park.

We took a ride at this hanging gondola. Looked at the roller coaster inside. Tried our hands at archery.
We were not able to go to the amusement park outside because the weather was not good. Too bad.

After a long day of travelling and going around the hotel and amusement areas, it was time for us to settle for the night.

The next day, we had a sumptuous buffet breakfast. Kelvin couldn't decide what to eat. He had fruits, cereals, bread, sausages and milk.

After breakfast, we did our final rounds on the attractions and got ready for the cablecar ride down to the bus terminal.

The cablecar ride was a bit frightening but at the same time exciting. It was a long ride down to the bus terminal.

Henderson Waves (Nov 2009)

2010-04-26T17:15:00.000+08:00

One weekend in November 2009, we went to Henderson Waves to try out hubby's 500D. It was also a "dry-run" of our New Zealand trip (in terms of who is in charge of what - camera/camcorder).

We went to Harbourfront to ride bus which goes to Mt Faber. From there, we walked down to Henderson Waves.

274 metre-long pedestrian bridge that spans Henderson Road to connect Mount Faber Park to Telok Blangah Hill Park. At 36m above Henderson Road, Henderson Waves is the highest pedestrian bridge in Singapore.

Distance: 0.3 km

Difficulty level: easy

Walking Time: 5 mins

on our way to Henderson Waves. It was quite a long walk

still not yet there...

short top to throw litter

Finally!

this is the entrance to the Henderson Waves

the boys making their way to the bridge

which way????

Henderson Waves

trying to get a good shot of the bridge

the boys running around the bridge. They liked the sloping sides.

they were pretending to skateboard

other people were also there to enjoy the view and the nature.

But sometimes nature can be quite cruel. This monkey was caught stealing these teens' food!

Beware of monkeys. They climb up to the bridge. They can be quite aggressive - stealing people's food. During our visit, one teenager left a plastic of chips lying around and the small monkey snatched it! Some of the monkeys also run after small kids.

the monkey enjoying his loot

there was also a baby monkey. So cute!

the little monkey was quite playful. He was swinging around the bars.

He also approaches passersby

watching over the little monkey. This one was quite protective of the little monkey.

Attack is imminent once it felt the little one was in danger.

the little monkey playing with the stroller wheels

Before the situation got worse, we walked to the end of the bridge and continued our journey to the forest connecting the bridge to the Alexandria Bridge.

some birds we saw along the way

nature treetop walk

already tired from the long walk

still able to smile...

some of the species of plants that can be seen from the nature walk trail

Kelvin trying his hands on the new camera

so sweet!

We were making our way towards the end of the nature walk (going down to the street level) when we saw this banana tree.

finally, the end of our long nature walk.

Phuket Dec 2008 - Day 3: Patong Beach

2010-04-25T14:55:00.001+08:00

Our last day and we had to make the most of it. We planned this to be our Patong Beach lounging day.

stopped by the rocky beach on the way to Patong Beach

enjoying the calm water at Patong Beach

We rented 2 lounging chairs for the day, including a beach umbrella. While the kids got themselves busy playing with the sand and the sea, the adults were taking turns "resting" and looking for something to do.

trying to build sand castles

We had to ask him to wear a hat because he doesn't want to build his fort under the shade of the umbrella.

Kelvin with Tita Malou

My sisters-in-law and I thought of having henna tattoo. After talking to the artist for around 30minutes, she finally succumbed to our negotiated price.

I got a henna tattoo anklet

the finished work of art

my sister-in-law got an armband with dolphin design

sporting our new tattoos

time for our couple photo with our favorite beach pose

full body shot

to view Day 1

to view Day 2

Bintan Dec 2007 - Day 4

2010-04-25T14:39:00.002+08:00

Our last day in Bintan. We still had half a day to enjoy the beach, pool and playground. The day wouldn't be complete for Mark without his early morning photo taking. The kids and I were still sound asleep.

the hotel early in the morning

our checking out family photo

We checked out and let the kids enjoy in the playground while waiting for our transfer to the ferry terminal.

Goodbye, Nirwana... Goodbye, Bintan....

I'm not ready to go!!!

waiting for our lunch - pizza!!! - at the bistro

overlooking pool

food is here... get ready to munch...

i love pizza...

and we're done!

farewell, Bintan.... We had lots of fun...

Till next visit!

to go back to Day 1...

to go back to Day 2...

to go back to Day 3...