Reality Check: The Air We Breathe

The right place - everything is within reach

2012-01-21T00:30:00.000+08:00

It was our last day in Bangkok. Our flight was scheduled in the afternoon. So with extra time we had plus the advantage of staying in the area that have almost everything for travelers could ever wanted, my friend and I started walking the main road at the Baan Silom area.

We had pretty good breakfast at the hotel before heading out. I was looking for some decorations and souvenirs for people back home. To be honest, most of my cash is already spent on pieces of Thai silk two days earlier. Also, I was planning for cosmetics shopping at the airport later. Hence, my spending capability was pretty much limited.

Morning is the best time to experience some unique features of Bangkok, especially with the locals. With wide pedestrian walkways alongside of the main road, small stalls flourishes in the morning selling pretty much everything, from flowers to food to clothes and

Read more: http://blog.travelpod.com/travel-blog-entries/makiko-saba/2/1326846177/tpod.html#ixzz1jjc4GtBP

Patpong can be fun for ladies too...

2012-01-19T00:30:00.000+08:00

Our third day in Bangkok started badly. I was down with stomach ache, thanks to me being too nice and adventurous the evening before. In front of our hotel, there was a convenient store. Usually these kind of stores (like 7-eleven) will definitely have something simple for pain or simple ache. My friend was kind enough to walk across to street to get medicine for me - only to find out that due to language barrier, it was impossible to buy from asking around. However, fortunately there was a pharmacy nearby - and of course since pharmacist should have English education, she managed to obtain a better prescription for my condition.

Whatever medicine prescribed, it was the best I had ever experienced. By late afternoon, I was back on my feet, getting ready to explore a bit more of Thailand. So we hired a tuk tuk and headed to one of the famous areas in Bangkok - especially for men - Patpong.

Read more: http://blog.travelpod.com/travel-blog-entries/makiko-saba/2/1326844405/tpod.html#ixzz1jjVnz3k3

Luxury Shopping in Bangkok

2012-01-16T00:30:00.000+08:00

Although this was my second time in Bangkok, the atmosphere was not so foreign to me. However, after so many years I realized that my last experience was no longer applicable. Furthermore, this time my friend and I came here to enjoy the shopping experience.

Breakfast served at the hotel was not that bad. Though lack in choices, the morning buffet was a mix of local and western dishes. The hotel kitchen was nice enough to do a separate omelet for us when we could not eat the serves dishes since there was meat inside. It was a very late breakfast, thanks to our late night adventure the night before.

Obviously when you are in Bangkok, one has to experience Tuk Tuk.

Read more: http://blog.travelpod.com/travel-blog-entries/makiko-saba/2/1326541988/tpod.html#ixzz1jSrOffA7

OMG!!! It's almost four years.

2012-01-14T04:40:00.001+08:00

This can be considered as an interval entry.

Of late, I have been dealing with trouble finding words to pen down on this blog. Despite of the abundance of ideas overflowing in my mind, it is just to hard for me to articulate them for your pleasure readings.

In view to find my writing cap that went missing, I have gone through all my entries in this blog. To my surprise, this year would be the fourth year of this blog's existence. My god! How fast time flies. I did not realized that I have been writing online this long. A couple of the recurring themes in here revolves around my travel experience and my thoughts while on a journey finding mr right.

Over these years, this blog only had three facelifts. Though I am thinking of giving this blog another round of layout change, I do not think I am in the right state of mind to do so ^_-

Anyway, I am sure there has been plenty more readers who has came here and enjoy my entries. Despite my struggle (still is) of finding more local readers who are interested at reading thoughts and ideas in English, my writing passion has never dimmed since day 1.

Genuinely from a writer's perspective, I wish to seek some honest opinion of this blog's from my respectable readers.

So, ladies & gentlemen...the table is open for your thoughts and ideas. Feel free to drop comment here.

First entry of 2012

2012-01-02T02:12:00.000+08:00

Today is second day of the year of 2012. Usually I love to do a reflection session by the end of any particular year. However, last year (2011) was the first time where I did not want to scrutinize the life that I had for the 12 months duration.

Anyway, I hope moving forward there will be more interesting ideas and experiences to be shared with you all.

Happy New Year and may all my fellow readers be blessed with more success & happiness for this 366 days.

Welcome to Bangkok & superb HRC nite

2011-11-24T00:00:00.000+08:00

The last time I was in Bangkok, I was brought by the flow of sea - amazing cruise ship. This is my first time in Suvarnabhumi International Airport. The spacious airport welcomed both me and my friend nicely. After a short stroll in the shopping area, we queued up for immigration. The lines were long, but the excitement for being in Thailand with my best friend had shorten the wait.

Originally I wanted to propose to my friend for us to use Bangkok Metro to get us from the airport to town. However, considering this would be her first time abroad (after so long) and in a country which English is not the first language, we opted for a taxi to carry us to hotel.

Baan Silom - one of many famous recommended areas for travelers to stay while in Bangkok.

Read more: http://blog.travelpod.com/travel-blog-entries/makiko-saba/2/1298312957/tpod.html#ixzz1eSCXt3NN

A long overdue plan for two best friends

2011-11-23T00:44:00.001+08:00

After so many months of planning, me and my best friend finally decided to apply for annual leaves (we surely had so many more days that were brought forward from last year) and head to the nearest city outside of Malaysia. We got a great bargain from MHDeals for a return flight to Bangkok from Kuala Lumpur a few weeks earlier.

The journey started off with a simple check-in procedure at the air-terminal in KL Sentral. There are several airlines' counters available in KL Sentral that allow travelers to experience the convenience of checking-in without having to be in the KLIA (Kuala Lumpur International Airport). For note, if you want to use the service, travelers MUST purchase ERL ticket. It used to be easy, where travelers can check in at the KL Sentral "Air terminal" regardless of the method to get to KLIA. In view to promoting travelers to use the ERL service, it is now a must for them to purchase at least a one-way ERL ticket before check-in at the airline counter.

Read more: http://blog.travelpod.com/travel-blog-entries/makiko-saba/2/1298312994/tpod.html#ixzz1eSArp3T8

What is wrong with me?

2011-11-21T03:22:00.001+08:00

What is wrong with me?
I walk with chin up;
Talk loud, act proud.
What is wrong with me?
My feet stands firmed;
My hands steer forward;
My body charge ahead;
My mind, my heart are rock solid hard.
What is wrong with me?
I speak out of those emotions;
I feel of those thoughts;
Confident is part of my composure.
Empathy is part of my conscience.

I know of my feelings now;
I know of my thoughts now.
But no word to form a speech;
But no act to show a desire.
What is wrong with me?
What is wrong with me?

(DA, November 2011)

Personal recollection post-operation & recovery

2011-10-03T03:13:00.001+08:00

It was more than two months before I gained my confidence over the use of my right leg - feet, to be precise. In my entry “19 June 2011 – 10 meter fall survived”, I have detailed out the whole ordeal - which I had to endure during that day.

Since then, I was almost bed ridden for a few weeks followed by house confinement for another 2 months. Recovery was difficult, physically. Although many have shown sympathy over my condition, most of them express shock when they found out about the whole unfortunate incident.

I now understand the power of strong will and mind-set, extremely well. Often people showed sadness or disappointment or worse, pity when they were addressing me in person. Should I allow myself to be affected by those ‘negative’ emotions, perhaps I have turned myself to depression.
Instead, positive attitudes kept me going strong. Thanks to the abundance of information (i.e. stories heard and read) as well as supportive family and friends, there was not a single second in my heart or mind that made me feel in distress.

When I found out that both fibula and tibia bones of my right leg were fractured and are now aided with a metal plate plus numerous screws, I soon realized that it would be a long time before I can enjoy horse riding, traveling and high heels. Nonetheless, it is due to all these things that I love so much those have accelerated the will power inside me to keep on pushing myself to a wholesome recovery, hopefully.

Soon after I got back home from hospital, I had forced myself to restrain from doing anything. For more than two months my playground was home. Aside from daily visit to hospital for physiotherapy sessions, I did not go elsewhere. Whenever I was home, I keep on doing the recommended exercises and minimize movement around. These alone had helped tremendously on the recovery process.

In addition to this, I have an extremely good support system. Be nice to your siblings! For your information, my younger sister nursed me. She was there almost 24/7 from the day I reached home. Of course the other siblings were also present during the whole recovery stint offering hands and helps whenever required. When all of them went for short holiday (which I had to miss out), two of my cousins came to accompany me at home. In the end, even without the elders all of us managed to go through the two and half months comfortably.

Though physically the elders were not around, they still had given moral and emotional support respectively. Regular phone calls and occasional visits cheered me up.

All of the above are just my personal thoughts and feelings over the duration of recovery I had at home. I have yet fully recovered from the injury. However, there is no need for me to worry much. I learned about perseverance and keeping a positive attitude – these are the best medicine.
Below are some of the pictures during my recovery process:

In the end, I get additional 'hands' and of course the day I met with Kim Hyun Joong, a treat for being good during recovery.

Find Makiko S on Facebook

2011-09-29T02:37:00.000+08:00

It is taking some time now.

As usual, changes in life is inevitable. While many may choose to sigh, there is nothing to loose if I keep on smiling. Attitude must always reflect your optimistic side - be it about life, love, career, etc.

Anyway, this is a short entry. For those who are on facebook, be a follower at Makiko S & Thumbelina@KL <click here>. You are more than welcomed to share this page with as many people as you like. Here is the platform where I do most of the times, update and share stories, pictures, recommendations and many more news on travel.

Until next time =)

Happy Birthday Malaysia

2011-08-27T01:58:00.000+08:00

Time fly very fast.
It is now almost the last quarter of calendar year.
For the past two months, I have been busy staying at home and regularly commuting to hospital for physioteraphy sessions. After this experience, I learnt that human ankle is the most complex feature in human body. I also learnt that the location where I fall is very notorious to claim bodily injury and even human lives.
Nonetheless, it was not all so bad for me. I am blessed and lucky to be able to survive and life must continue.
On the note that August is Malaysia's national celebration, I would like to extend warm wishes to all fellow Malaysians - a Happy 54th Birthday Malaysia.
This year would be a meaningful experience for all of us as we are having double celebration.

Lastly, in view of the upcoming Eid-ul Fitr celebration, I wish everyone who is celebrating an Eid Mubarak. I will try to write an interesting travel entry soon.

19 June 2011 - A 10 meter fall survived

2011-07-17T21:47:00.001+08:00

My last entry was more than a month ago. Aside from numerous pending entries about the solo travel across Asia and a few hotel/hostel reviews, I was about to write few more articles on general topics. Late May 2011, I went off to Kota Kinabalu for a short weekend visit and shortly after my return, I was busy with my cousin's engagement. Both stories shall be written separately in future entries.

**********
This year has been challenging and exciting for me. Now that we have passed the mid-year mark, I am confidently in the position to say, "Hey, 2011 will forever be in mind forever!"

Want to know why?

Here is the story...

Since I have dedicated 2011 to be the year for self exploration, one fine day, when an old friend published a photo on his facebook, I decided to join him for a Sunday outing. It was just nearby to my place, so the next early morning, around 4.30 am I packed my stuffs, prepared some sandwiches for the gang and drove out to meet him.

Upon meeting him at the corner of the main road, we head out to the gathering point (so-called lah). It was still early - almost pitch black. The morning was serene and interesting as I had to meet up with a gang of beautiful and cute felines at the home of the owner. He is my friend's friend, who will be leading me, my friend and another person. So, after the Subuh prayer, 4 of us head for THE morning exercise.

It was first time for me to hear Bukit Tabur's name, despite being located less than half an hour drive from my house. I was the slowest compared to the rest of the team. Well, I thought, I am a girl - it was not something comparable to the speed and strength of the men ahead of me. They were nice enough to follow my slow phase; at least they have plenty of time to take photos along the way.

After more than 2 hours and as we reached the top, the view was magical (at least to me). This was indeed one of the most beautiful and breathtaking view I have ever experienced in my life. The track was moderately difficult, but there were times where it could get a bit tricky - especially with the rocks and trees.

Just moment before heading down, while I was trying to get a grip of maneuvering down - my left palm failed me. That second, I realized, "oh my God, I fell." I remember my head was downwards twice before landing on the ground. I could clearly hear my friend calling my name once, or twice, while I was falling.

It was a quick one. Almost instantaneously, my body gave signal to my brain that my right foot was not OK. I was in shocked but still remained focus and kept on telling myself not to get panic. As my friend and few others came to rescue, I kept on saying, "my right leg, my right foot."

The pain was concentrated on the right foot. It was certainly something very, very bad "happening" inside it. In the state of injury shock, my body shivers extensively. I could only tell myself to keep on breathing (and of course praying) in order to ease the pain and shock. My whole body was not only shivering, but numbness started to crawl from the end of the toes and fingers to everywhere throughout my body.

It was not a lucky day for me, but I was indeed in the good hands of God when He sent me a group of great Samaritans who came to help my friends at giving me first aid. Without them, it must have been extremely difficult for me and my friends to continue from there on.

There was nothing much to do except to call-in for rescue team, as I could not even stand up anymore. It might had been a severe sprained ankle or perhaps fractures, but none of us could have guessed at that point of time. While waiting for the rescue team to reach our location, these great individuals had given me comfort and assistance - the ONLY thing I needed the most, to deviate my attention from the excruciating pain I had.

Shortly after my friend had given a call to the police, it was a happy moment to be able to hear the sirens' sound of the rescue, downhill. However, it was not an easy terrain going up and finding us. The rescue team also had taken the same amount of time like I did, to reach me (and all of us). In the couple of hours waiting, I heard a lot. It wasn't until recently I realized how lucky I was. I thought it was just an unfortunate fall. I fell down approximately 10 meters down - almost the same as 3 stories building high.

Once the rescue team reached me, it was so much relief felt. However, journey down was not as simple as throwing me down and into the ambulance directly. I remembered seeing so many individuals in uniforms. In total, including the good Samaritans + my friends, there were more than 20 people; whom, in all determination and great strengths, had gone through (perhaps) the toughest hill descend ever.

They must have gone through (almost) hell, figuring out how to safely carry me down in such treacherous conditions. Mid way, wind and rain had accompanied the rescue effort. None of them said or shown any kind of gesture indicating the actual situation. They kept on saying, "be strong," "just a little bit more," "we are almost there,", etc. At certain point, they had to stop for a while and even asked me to wake up. I guess it was a way to ensure that I was still doing OK, since it was already a long day for me (and them).

There were tough times when I was carried down. Due to the unbearable pain, crying and screaming were inevitable. Reflecting back, I could be proud of myself to be able to keep the crying and screaming to the minimum.

Between the actual fall and the time I was safely brought down to the ground, there were tears, jokes, laughs and most importantly sheer strengths of everyone who had gotten themselves involved with me. By the time I was carried into the ambulance, it was already evening.

When I reached the ER and took a glimpsed at the clock, I saw 6.15pm. It hit me that time that it was a very long day for everyone who had given themselves to help me, since I fell down just slightly after 9am.

The day ended with me being given pain medication (which did not help much, except it made me doze-off for a while) and being pushed into O.R. (operating room) while I cried in tears because of the pain. It was a classic fracture of my right leg's Tibia and Fibia bones. (Stories on my recovery in separate entries)

************

Throughout the entire ordeal, I have been coaxed, comforted and aided by so many people. I will be forever in debt to everyone who had lent their hands to helping me. Still in search for the names of the people who had rescued me on that Sunday, but here are the ones (who I knew and vividly remember):-

2 fire department teams (BOMBA) - still searching the exact brigades
Jabatan Pertahanan Awam (JPAM)
Club Shutter (BERNAMA)
Firdaus Irwan, Poji and Papa Meow.

************
Picture credits to Fir and Poji.

Papa Meow (led our group); who had written earlier in Malay about 19 Jun 2011 - check out his blog for the entry, titled "Bukit Tabur Malang Tak Berbau"

Members of Bernama's Club Shutter; who had also done a video posted on Youtube, "Bukit Tabur - Antara bahaya dan keindahan"

SUKARELAWAN - Mulakan Sekarang!

2011-05-24T02:23:00.001+08:00

SUKARELAWAN - Mulakan Sekarang!

For many who has been involved, I am sure you are highly aware of the existence of various NGOs in Malaysia. Personally, I think our perception and acceptance on voluntary activities is very much influenced by the mainstream culture. Although we have been exposed to the concept of helping hands since early age, "volunteerism" has not been commercialized enough, especially among our young generations.

As we are moving towards becoming a developing nation, social development focus has been directed towards commercialization of economy generating activities such as empowering our human capital for commercial workforce, enhancing our education system for popular commercial sectors, etc.

Based on personal experience, I came to realize that despite knowing the importance of "giving my hands" to the needy, somehow my intention of helping others kept on dropping from my priority list. Helping financially (or shall I say monetary assistance) had overwhelmed voluntary efforts/activities by pushing away people, who are less fortunate -money wise. If I go back to the basics of helping, a contribution does not equals to monetary value itself, but the scope can be widen to other type of resources available.

*******************

Whether you realize it or not, there has been a healthy development in the areas of social development.

If you have been wanting to learn about volunteering locally (soon internationally), check out this site - SUKARELAWAN. This site aims to collectively gather as many organizations as possible in the country that offer volunteering opportunities to the public. Although it is still in its infancy stage, you could find relatively sufficient information about volunteer activity here.

私のきぼう

2011-05-24T01:17:00.000+08:00

最近、いろいろなことをかんがえています。度して日本語を勉強のことが、ずっとあたまにかんがえています。私はマレーシアからにきました。日本語を勉強する始めて時に、日本へ行きたいとおもいますから、いっしょかんめいならいました。でも、そのときに今から、なんか１０年だ。湯名は湯名だね。今、まだマレーシアにいますよ。

私の日本語がじょうずではありませんとおもいます。誰で漏れ主のいないから、上手になることがちょっとむずかしいとおもいます。ずっと行きたい、日本へ。そのことは私の希望です。

Dari-K

2011-05-21T02:11:00.001+08:00

Dari-K - If you are a steady reader at this blog, you would know about the origin of my pen name - Makiko S. When I first knew this guy, he was just a simple yet a very smart guy who was completing his Master's degree in Singapore. He was there for a while before heading to Oxford university to further his study.

I have to admit that he was one guy who I used to admire (from far) - obviously I like smart people (who doesn't, right?). This guy is one of many reasons for me to start travelling as well. In the recent years, we keep on maintaining communications between two countries.

This entry is dedicated specially for his newly opened chocolate shop in Kyoto. At this moment, the shop serves customers in Japan, but I was informed that plans for expanding delivery is coming soon.

So readers, if you happened to be in Kyoto, drop by at this wonderful chocolate shop. Rest assured that since his cocoa beans are from one of the best cocoa producers in the world, you'll be surprised with the products.

It is a Japanese chocolate house, but the name of the shop is unique - it's not even a Japanese name. Please add Dari-K on your travel diary if you stop in Kyoto.

Note: For Mr 'Owner', this would be definitely a reason for me to add Kyoto in my travel list. Wish you all the best with the chocolate shop.

Interrupted postings - writer's apology

2011-05-14T20:47:00.000+08:00

It has indeed been an interesting journey of mine while on my personal Indo-China route. To date, I am in the last city of this stint - Taipei. Albeit reasonably good internet connection in almost all the places I have stopped, for certain reasons many of the websites (including blogger) are not always available for access.

I shall resume writing about my experience for the past month or so once I have returned to Malaysia (for my break). To all dear followers and readers, my sincere apology for not keeping up to my promise.

See you all next time...!!!

Day 13: Cu Chi Tunnel, living proof of Vietnamese strength

2011-05-01T23:28:00.000+08:00

This was my second time visiting Ho Chi Minh City, after almost nine years. The momentum is different because this time I am on full control of things I can and cannot (or shall I say, would?) do. History of Vietnamese, on its French and American wars is well-known to the South East Asia region. I did not have the chance to visit some of the famous historical sites while I was in Saigon, first time, so I decided to follow a day trip to the famous Cu Chi district where the remnants of the Vietnamese soldiers (i.e. VietCong/ VC) are still kept intact for future generations.

After an early pick-up from the hotel, a bus load of tourists was driven to the Cu Chi district, about 30 minutes drive from district 1 (where we depart). Cu Chi district has always been known for the Vietnamese fighters during the French and America wars. After gaining its independence in the 1940’s, the country had gone through tremendous ordeal to really gain their true liberation. Vietnamese soldiers who were seen as terrorists had built an underground life (best known as a mini local city) in order to fight the war.

Depending on the tour package, one must know that to visit the Cu Chi Tunnel site, there is an entrance fee. There is a ticket counter and English guide available for visitors. The first stop after the entrance is a short video presentation of Cu Chi history and about the war itself. Do take note that for many, this presentation is a heavily biased. I personally felt that the video presentation (or even the guided presentation of the tour later) is an honest opinion of the Vietnamese side, especially of those who have fought so hard to getting their country full liberation.

There is nothing special on the ground of the visiting area. It was just a normal forest, but as you proceed, the guide will further amaze you with the underground life of Vietnamese fighters. Secret underground entrances, small walk-ways underground, 3 levels of tunnel stretching more than 200 km and various other remnants from the actual war are carefully explained and showed by the professional guides of Cu Chi Tunnel. Additional to this, the site also offer the visitors the chance to experience the underground living, if you are not claustrophobic and are not too big sized. Vietnamese are known to be very innovative especially during those times. One can see few samples of self made weapons and nasty booby traps done by the Vietnamese fighters during the war.

At the middle of your visit, visitors can also try to use weaponry from the war times first hand. Just purchase the bullets and you are ready to shoot the guns. The shooting are administered by the Vietnamese Army, so there are professional guides to help you use the weapons. At the end of the visit, the host will serve local delicacy; which was one of the main dishes during the war period, for visitors to taste. If you are observant enough, the food are still cooked traditionally in an underground kitchen. For those who want to buy souvenirs, there is a small shop selling goodies for visitors.

While walking over the ground, I was trying to imagine of the difficulties the Vietnamese fighters had to endure for about 30 over years here in Cu Chi. Their perseverance and willingness to keep on fighting were for their future generations, and for those who have died doing so – I personally believe they will be very happy to see Vietnam now.

After a day in the “jungle”, I was hoping to be able to join Saigon river dinner boat cruise. This was not materialized especially since many of the dinner packages are for couple, rather than single dining. Instead I decided to walk around the area whereby I was staying. There was a cute bar nearby the hotel, so I hang out for a couple of hours sipping local coffee while listening to live music. It was a nice way to end my day.

Click on the web album cover below to see pictures of today’s adventure >>

Day 13 - Cu Chi Tunnel, living proof of Vietnamese strength

Travelog Hotel Review – Sawasdee Krungthep Inn (Bangkok, Thailand)

2011-04-23T00:05:00.037+08:00

Sawasdee hotel chain has four premises located in the vicinity of backpackers’ heaven in Bangkok. Via Asia Rooms users can make reservation at bargain price. Sawasdee Krungthep Inn is about 20 minute’s tuk tuk ride from Hua Lam Phong train station.

It is located at Soi Rambutri, Phanakorn; an area full of budget accommodations, café and restaurants and, most importantly, numerous tour & travel agent services. This budget hotel is slightly at the end of the street, which is near to the shortcut way heading to Khao San Road as well as to the Grand Palace (about 10 minute’s walk).

The hotel provides clean and comfortable room for guests including bed, towels, and toiletries and in some package may include breakfast. Wireless internet is complimentary but if your room is located on second floor and above or your room is at the end of the walkway, you may not be able to catch the signal. Users can always bring down their laptop to the lobby to enjoy faster WIFI connection. Those who do not have any laptop, computers with internet services and printer are available for use.

There is also a tour desk at the lobby that provides booking and reservation services for variety of tour or/and travel arrangements. As the hotel is located at the end of the street, you can expect reasonable amount of quietness when you are asleep in room. At the reception counter, you can also leave your valuables for safekeeping in locked locker at no charge. It is highly advisable not to leave your valuables in the room as the area is so busy with people. The hotel even put up a notice at the room door advising guest to use extra locks when you are asleep in room.

The only minus point for this hotel is the restaurant is located in another Sawasdee hotel, which is about 3 minutes walk from this hotel building. If you are worried of not having a place to eat, rest assured that you will not be starving. There are huge selections of café and restaurant to choose the moment you walk out the hotel’s entrance.

This is highly recommended for backpacker, especially single travelers.
My personal rating: 4 stars

Read my journey in Bangkok in Day 5: Pit Stop in Bangkok

Day 12: An interesting bus ride, entering Vietnam and meeting someone

2011-04-22T00:02:00.001+08:00

Similar to the bus journey from Thailand to Cambodia, the trip from out of Cambodia was also an early venture. 10 minutes to 8 am the pick-up service arrived to bring me to the bus station. This time my seat was not in the front rows, but almost at the end. Since it was nearly the Khmer New Year, many people were taking opportunity to travel out of the city. I noticed that there were also many Vietnamese who seem to be working in Cambodia were on the bus as well (surely they are in “balik kampong” mode).

Shortly before I board the bus, the bus company representative requested for our passport and was busy asking for our names and nationalities. I thought that the passports were collected to ease the procedure at the border later - I was wrong.

I was seated next to a tall and dark haired European gentleman. I saw him on the same pick-up van earlier. He had a small bag, which made me wonder, “Gee…how can this guy travel this light?”

Apparently he has some sense of humour. A brief exchange of greetings led to a very interesting conversation, almost all the way of the journey. I hope to be able to meet him again when I reach Hanoi. It was good to have company while on this trip. It has been quite a lonesome journey ever since I reach Cambodia. Somehow we had something in common, which made it more interesting - we have mixed blood running in our body =.=”

Anyway, the journey from Phnom Penh to Ho Chi Minh City was really an interesting experience. Cambodia and Vietnam are known for the extensive river channels which are part of the longest river in South East Asia, Mekong River. Infrastructure is perhaps still a challenge for Cambodian. There is no bridge connecting two towns nearby the country border. I had the opportunity to be on a ferry bringing our bus crossing the Mekong River. After almost 4 hours on the road, the bus reached the city of the border. However, before crossing the border the bus made a stop at a restaurant. I had something to eat and took the opportunity to get myself refreshed. I have to admit that the Cambodian immigration check was very easy and quick, except for the method where the immigration officer was calling name of the passengers before all of us could get into the bus again. Entering Vietnam however was an hour queue before my name was finally called by the immigration officer. The immigration building is a big and seems to have many modern facilities, but the entry systems they have are surely full of areas for improvement. You will need strong legs to withstand the long queue.

The distance between border and Ho Chi Minh City is less than 100 km but since the road was not as good as our highway, the journey was about 2 hours. The moment the bus entered HCMC, it was something new for me. The city had definitely changed tremendously for the last 9 years. I was here back in 2002 and the scene of the city is nothing compared to my first visit. The bus stop nearby a park in District 1, which is actually where the hotel I was to stay, is located. I (and Mr Gentleman) had a drink before saying goodbye. The coffee shop had wireless internet connection, so I took the chance to google the direction to the hotel. I decided to walk from the coffee shop to the hotel after finding out that it was only 800 meters away.

Again, upon check-in, I was amazed by the room provided by the hotel. Minus the window, everything else is far better than Seri Malaysia hotel chain, and the rate is only $18 per night (including breakfast). I took the chance to get myself refreshed and wanted to go to the railway station. Unfortunately due to the language problem, it was almost impossible for me to safely go to the said destination by taxi. Slightly tired and frustrated, I started walking the same route as I came from the bus stop. After about 15 minutes walking I reached at the area. The area is full with travel and tour arrangement service businesses. Greeted by a kind man, I decided to check out the service of the travel service. He was very helpful at getting my train ticket arranged and purchased. The prices however had slightly increased compared to the charges I saw from the internet. For the trip from HCMC to Danang, it cost me 950,000 Vietnamese Dong and for the trip from Danang to Hanoi, the cost was 870,000 Vietnamese Dong. Due to the nature of travel, which will take about 16 hours each trip, I had purchased the soft sleeper coach.

While trying to find a place for dinner, someone had passed me a flyer. Surprisingly it was an Indian and Pakistani restaurant, serving Halal food. Too tired of walking further, I ended up eating at the restaurant – Taj Mahal Restaurant. I had garlic naan with Chicken Tandoori Masala and mango lassi.

I had booked a half day tour from the reception desk that requires me to wake up early. Pick-up from hotel was at 7.30am – lucky the hotel have wake-up call service.

See some interesting pictures snapped for the day here (or click here Day 12 Web Album)

Day 11: The bachelor, King of Kingdom of Cambodia

2011-04-21T00:49:00.000+08:00

If anyone to ask, I would say Phnom Penh can be easily toured in only one day. A Cambodian friend, who is currently abroad studying, recommended activities (including places) to do while in Phnom Penh which can be completed in a day – he was right. Since I had two full days in Phnom Penh, so I decided to go slow with the sightseeing. Yesterday I was adapting to the dusty town, yet I had managed to experience the sound and smell of Phnom Penh city during the fair share of walking around town.

The day must start with a good breakfast, but I somehow slipped of the alarm. Like it or not, I had to miss my breakfast because my ride was already at the hotel doorstep before I even finish combing my hair. LOL..!!!

I hopped on Mr Vuf tuk tuk heading to the Grand Palace. Yesterday I heard that the King was in China and if I were lucky I could see the King (as he was supposed to return home today). This is my first time seeing a palace, where a King actually resides, that is located in the middle of city. The Kingdom of Cambodia Grand Palace is a significant structure right in the city centre, facing the main river. The entrance fee for foreign tourist is US$6.50 and since I wanted to learn about the history of the monarch and palace, I paid additional US$7 for an English guide. He was extremely jovial and funny – especially when he kept on saying if I am lucky enough, I can marry the King – he is still single.

At the age of 58, the present king of Cambodia is still a bachelor. He was a ballet dancer until he assumed the throne a few years back. Many royal items on the premise had to be changed to accommodate to his royal highness. The palace compound was huge, and I figured his royal highness must be very lonely staying in the big palace by his ownself. The guide had told me that his royal highness could not be that lonely since he has about 1,500 staffs working in the palace. The building of the palace is mainly influenced by the current Buddhist architecture, with a spice of Hinduism touch. Among the many building structure there is one building that was donated by French, and it was completed French architecture. I could see it clearly even though it was undergoing restoration works.

Within two hours of my journey inside the palace I learnt that Cambodia was a wealthy country, rich with gold. The royal gifts or items kept in the palace are mostly made from gold. There was even a pagoda known as Silver Pagoda – the temple floor was made out of pure silver tiles. At the end of the tour I asked the guide, who will assume the throne since the present King is not married? With full confident he answered, “His royal highness has a brother and he will assume the throne.”

I was getting hungry but it was nowhere near lunch time. Immediately after the palace, I head to the Russian Market. Apparently, Trip Advisor rated Russian Market visit better than going to Central Market. As I wanted to see the local in action, my trip to the Russian Market was the closest I could get to be with the local. If you are a shopper, this would be heaven. You can find almost everything here, from jewelries to clothes and from fresh ingredients to cooked dishes. If I were to go on a shopping spree, I would need more than 2 hours in this market. After roaming around to see all the dry stuffs, my feet brought me to the food section. Struggling with language, I was very happy to finally buy a local delicacy – banana wrapped with sticky rice and banana leave (similar to Malaysian pulut dakap but this is bigger). Outside the market there was a street vendor selling another local delicacy. This time I tried the thin pancake with crushed peanuts (tasted like apam balik but a crispy one). It was not easy to find a food shop around the market area, but there was small make-shift vendor selling drinks. I sat down at the place, sipping coconut juice, while waiting for my tuk tuk driver.

Cambodia is a country of flat land. So far I have not seen any elevated land (not even a small hill) ever since I came to Poi Pet. I am still at awe trying to imagine the looks of the country during the flood season. There is a man made hill in the city that also house Wat Phnom. It was not a high climb, but the fact that the temple was on an artificial elevated land somehow creates an excitement. On the way heading to the stairs, I saw a friendly elephant waiting for people to ride him. The elephant seemed very happy when people feed him bananas. You can pay the care taker of the elephant US$5 to take pictures while feeding the elephant. It was a good exercise for me climbing the stairs.

The day was supposed to end early – I wanted to do some packing for my early morning bus ride, the day after. At around 4pm, Yusuf, my guide from Siem Reap called me to ask if I wanted to join him and his small group for a dinner on boat. How could I say NO when my original intention was to have dinner on boat..?? I had joined a couple of ladies from Malaysia and it was a good time when all of us where talking in my native language.

My last tuk tuk ride cost me US$2, from the night market (last pit stop after dinner) to Circuit Hotel. I just had to quickly pack all the stuffs because I need to be in bed by 11pm. I can’t remember what time I actually doze off.

Click album cover below to see Day 11 pictures from the web album >>

Day 11 - Tour in Phnom Penh

Travelog Hotel Review: Moradok Thai Guesthouse (Ayutthaya, Thailand)

2011-04-20T00:10:00.002+08:00

If you are an adventurous and not “fussy”, this guesthouse is a good bargain. Located in Ayutthaya, this small guesthouse is run by a friendly Thai lady (married to a Swiss man), Gina. It sits next to one of the many temple ruins of Ayutthaya.

Do not attempt to walk from the railway station because it is not that near (despite google map saying otherwise). Instead, you can easily request for a pick up – free of charge, from the guesthouse owner herself. At bargain price you will get basic room with beds, blankets, ensuite bathroom and a cheerful entertainer, Samsee. The bar starts early and you can make friends here (I am not joking!!!). Breakfast is pretty standard – toast, eggs, fruits and coffee; and it is usually included in the price you pay for the room.

In front of the guesthouse is a traditional Thai massage place and a restaurant. You can also rent bicycle from the guesthouse at a very cheap price. Additional service at the guesthouse includes tour packages for many activities in Ayutthaya you want to do.

Location wise – this place is within walking distance to many Ayutthaya main attractions. Take a map at the counter and start exploring this ancient city. If you need to buy anything, you are only 2 minutes away from the 7eleven and the local night market.

You can book Moradok Thai guesthouse from AsiaRooms easily. My personal rating: 3 ½ stars.

Read entries on my experience in Ayutthaya

Day 3: Ayutthaya on Foot

Day 4 - Ayutthaya on water

Travel updates : Check out my web albums

2011-04-19T15:41:00.000+08:00

When you are on the move, one of my many challenges is getting a stable internet connection. I had promised my dear followers and readers of the journey updates, regularly.

Entries on the journey is on the way. Meanwhile, enjoy some of the pictures snapped while I traveled in Cambodia and Vietnam >>

Day 11 - Tour in Phnom Penh

Day 13 - Cu Chi Tunnel, living proof of Vietnamese strength

Day 14 - Experience Mekong Delta; what a scene

Day 15 – A new sight of Ho Chi Minh City

Day 10: A recovering city, Phnom Penh

2011-04-19T15:29:00.000+08:00

Breakfast was the same menu – toast, egg and coffee. The evening before, I saw list of attractions in Phnom Penh, on the tuk tuk. History had many stories about Pol Pot and devastation caused by the Khmer Rouge to Cambodia. I wanted to see for myself so I opted to go and see the famous Killing Field and S-21.

Advice for others if you are going to Phnom Penh on traveling around the city – either you hire a car/taxi service or if you choose to ride tuk tuk, gear up yourself with a protective mask. The city is indeed a dusty city; even the locals are seen to be wearing protective mask.

Killing field is located outside the Phnom Penh city centre, which took me more than half an hour of tuk tuk ride. I managed to snap a few pictures of Independence Monument, while I was on my way that morning. It would be nicer if I could snap more pictures, but since the monument is the main structure of a very big roundabout, it was not so easy to get the tuk tuk stop in the traffic.

The Khmer empire was huge during ancient civilization. Even during the French colonization era, Cambodia was still prosperous with promising development of both its people and country. Sadly after the country’s independence, and like many other South East Asian countries, the country was torn by civil war and soon after was affected directly by the influence of communism. The term Khmer Rouge will always be remembered by history and especially the Cambodian people. During the reign of Pol Pot regime, the country had to witness a complete meltdown of the growth Cambodian people had been working hard for centuries.

It was more than a crime, whereby almost half of the Cambodian population was slaughtered during the Khmer Rouge era. Killing field was the place where all prisoners from the S-21 prison were executed. When I entered the Choeung Ek gate, I thought I was anxious, thinking of how would the ambiance be. I hope all the souls buried here had found their solace. Although it was a sad view seeing all the remaining skulls and some clothes; which were dug out from the mass grave, I felt serenity walking around the compound.

Coming back to town was not an easy ride, especially with the dust from the road. I arrived at the Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum after traveling about 30 minutes. It was a high school which was turned into a prison (S-21) during the Khmer Rouge reigned. The compound was not big, but you may need about 2 hours to go through everything. Since the International Crime Court had just settled, there was also exhibition on the inhumane crime trial of the four highest administrators of the Khmer Rouge. One thing that would give impact to visitors is the massive display of photos of all the prisoners held, tortured and killed here at S-21. I was trying to search for fear in the eyes of the people photographed, but many seemed not to show the sense of fear even when they already know their tragic fate, back then.

There were 7 graves in the compound for the last 7 bodies found after Pol Pot regime defeated and the army fled of the S-21. Among them was a female prisoner. I took about 15 minutes seating at the bench facing the buildings in the area trying to reflect how lucky my country was for not having such heinous experience like Cambodia had to endure.

After a dusty day, I went back to hotel for a shower and short rest. Determined to see Mekong River in action, I started walking (helped by a map) trying to reach the riverside. After about half an hour of walking, I reached to a big road intersection. I could see the big river in front of me. Another objective while in Phnom Penh was to ride the water of the big Mekong River. The hotel staff told me that I could find the boat ride service along the river side. Somehow I could only see many boats cruising the river, but no sight of the boat stop or pier. I continued walking, but after about an hour walking and losing sight of the river bank, my worry surfaced.

Knowing that language is the biggest barrier, I decided to walk into a 5 star hotel, The Cambodiana, to inquire about the right destination. To my surprised, I had gone to the wrong direction. An English speaking concierge helped me to show the location on a map and advised me to take a tuk tuk, especially because of the distance. I paid US$2 for the tuk tuk ride. Unfortunately, since it was already dark, no more boat with dinner was available for me to ride. I could take a boat by myself – an hour ride cost me US$15. The tuk tuk driver was nice enough to accompany me on the ride; otherwise it would be an extremely lonely journey.

It was indeed a great view of the city from the water. Soon after I hopped off the boat, I knew that I need to get something to eat. The tuk tuk driver brought me to a halal small eatery, ran by a Malaysian. I was lucky that he understood my original request of wanting to eat Muslim food.

Since I still have another day tomorrow, I decided to head back to hotel for rest and sleep. Having to see the city and its history gave me a conclusion – the country is in its recovering mode. They are still at infancy stage waiting for the new generations to start developing the country; since all the intellectuals were assassinate by the Pol Pot regime.

Check out pictures from my web album by clicking the album cover below >>

Day 10 - Phnom Penh, a recovering city

Day 9 - Going to Cambodia city centre, Phnom Penh

2011-04-16T23:54:00.000+08:00

My bus ride from Siem Reap to Phnom Penh was scheduled in the noon. Many reviews found in the internet indicated good comments about Mekong Limousine Express bus services. Since they also operate Siem Reap – Phnom Penh route, I had opted to try out the service. The 6 hours ticket price was US$11/ one way and after safely arrived in Phnom Penh I can say this – unexpected good service =.="

Siem Reap was raining, again, that morning. So, I decided to just stay at the guesthouse for the rest of the morning. Good thing when you are travelling in South East Asia is you can get complimentary pick up and drop off services whenever you purchase accommodation, travel or tour arrangement. Instead of spending extra cash for tuk tuk or taxi, my pick up to the bus station arrived about noon. Siem Reap main bus station is located in the market area, about 20 minutes from the guesthouse.

The bus system was extremely good – with luggage tagging system for bags that are stored at the luggage compartment, refreshment serves during the journey and an English speaking guide on the bus for the entire journey. Along the way, the guide also shared some interesting information about several towns which we had passed through.

The entire trip was relatively smooth, although the road was not as good as in Malaysia. However, there was a 30 minutes rough ride when the bus had to go through an unfinished road route. I was amazed how flat Cambodia land is, along the way ever since I entered the country from Thailand, however, it was a shocking truth to see how dusty Cambodia can be during the dry season. An hour away from Phnom Penh was a route where drivers must be highly skilled. Dust was everywhere on the road, just like the morning mist or terrible smog.

Anyway, I reached Phnom Penh at around 7pm. The bus stop somewhere near the riverside area, and upon coming down the bus we can immediately see a flock of tuk tuk drivers waiting for business. I was lucky to get a tuk tuk driver who was very kind (he was also my guide for the next two days). Apparently my hotel was located nearby the Central Market area. I checked in at Circuit Hotel and my first impression when I saw my room was total amazement. The room was obviously a good bargain for that kind of quality and service – US$15/night. See pictures of the room I stayed in Day 9 album.

Take note that it is not easy to find Halal food restaurant in Phnom Penh. My first meal was vegetable fried rice with egg at a restaurant across the street of my hotel. Somehow it felt weird because of the restaurant name – Arabica Restaurant.

The day ended with me going to be late, as I was trying to upload pictures to facebook and tried to write the previous entries for my journey in Siem Reap. Mr Vurf, the tuk tuk driver will only come at 9.30am for my next day plan, leaving me enough sleeping hours.

Next entry will be about the bustling city of Phnom Penh.
Check out Day 9 pictures here >>

Day 9 - Going to Cambodia city centre, Phnom Penh

April Birthday Wishes

2011-04-14T01:05:00.000+08:00

This entry is dedicated especially for two important people in my life. Since I have no mean to access FACEBOOK in this city, hopefully this entry will cheer them up.

Although I am not at home to physically celebrate with them, I wish both of them all the best in life and hope for more success as well as happiness to be bestowed by them.

Firstly, a happy belated birthday to my youngest sister, Lyna (we are 10 years different in age); and

Secondly, a happy birthday to my dearest Papa (no need to mention the age different, eh?)

Additional note: Two of my good friends are to be married as well this month and since I am not in town, I would like to congratulate to Eppy and wife, and Ms Echah and future hubby for the wedding. May both of you finds happiness and be blessed of a long lasting marriage.