The Princess Diaries 공주 일기

Interesting facts in Indo-China

2009-11-05T13:22:00.001+08:00

My travel mates were shouting in excitement during our trip to Hanoi and Siem Reap. Guess what they saw...

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On our way to Halong Bay: Cow on a motor.

On our way from the airport to hotel: A hundred chicken tied at the back of a motor.

On our way to the Old Market: Pigs on a motor.

ALL WERE STILL ALIVE!! Funny? It's the fact. Motorcycles are very important to their people, not only as transportation to move around but also their very important equipments to earn a living.

Princess Giveaway - 5 pieces of "My Beauty Diaries 我的美丽日记" essence mask

2009-11-04T20:23:00.000+08:00

Hey babes, I have something for you!!

Want to have a free try of my favorite essence mask "My Beauty Diaries 我的美丽日记"? This brand is very very popular in Taiwan and you can get RM18/2pcs from Watson's or Guardian. Now I'm giving it free as a treat for my readers, be it a babe or a dude.

I just realized that I have 20 pcs of theeesseeee and my cousin sis had just brought back another limited edition package from Taiwan for me! I can sell it but it's be more meaningful to giveaway to my readers.

Wanna win this? I will give away 5 pieces this time. Answer the questions below and link me in your blog or website. The first 5 person who has the most correct answers will receive one piece of mask by delivery.

(1) How many countries have I visited?
(2) Which transit during one of my trips took me more than 10hours? (Hint: A380)
(3) How many people was there in my group in my Phuket trip?
(4) How many times did I ride on a dromedary in Marrakech?
(5) What color was the jacket that I wore to Fisherman's Wharf?

Only 5 questions to win yourself a free "My Beauty Diaries" mask. Send me your answers to cheryltan_11@hotmail.com and remember to put a comment at the post to remind me that you've submitted. I will publish the correct answer after the first 5 readers got the correct answer. Then I shall get your mailing address later on for the delivery.

QUICK!! QUICK!!

**This giveaway is only entitled to Malaysia's citizens. For foreign country readers, maybe next time when I get some special souvenirs back from travel. (^.")

Pub Street, Siem Reap

2009-11-02T22:19:00.001+08:00

**Continue from the previous post....

Second round celebration for winning the champion. We went to the famous Pub Street of Siem Reap. This should be the only place that you can find some night life in Siem Reap. The dashing smile was from heart, after winning the award, because the next thing in my mind at that time was my Marrakech trip~

The Cambodia tuk tuk and I

Pub Street is just streets away from the Old Market.

Here you can find some recommended restaurants and also guesthouses.

The famous Red Piano.

Anthony looked so blur after the dinner. Too excited huh?

The Pub Street signboard.

One shop that caught my attention was this cute little cafe selling pearl milk tea or bubble tea. I just love the very bubbly design.

Pub Street is not very long, it took only 5 minutes to walk from the start to the end.

Tuk tuk driver waiting for customer. It was low season in Siem Reap during our visit, therefore it was not so crowded nor happening.

Interesting signboards with Khmer language that I cannot understand.

The street was very peaceful during low season. Summer time, definitely very hot even at night.

And can see that business was not good too.

Shops with special names that caught our attention.

Life was slow....very slow....

Even cats were enjoying their 'guesthouse'! Time for sleep.

We walked around the whole area searching for a place that is able to fit us all.

Alas we came to Le Tigre de Papier.

Our lady said all drinks on her! Yeah~

After sweating for hours, my face turned so damn oily. Luckily my make-up did not melt..

Nai had not finished with the food ordering yet.

I looked across the street, there was this orchestra group of people again, performing for donation to the landmine victims.

Very few people on the street.

Nai distributed our certificates while waiting for the food and drinks to be served.

As usual, I ordered my favorite mango smoothie.

What was Wignes laughing at?? You know what, lots of Cambodians told him that they love his smile with the braces on, they envy him because they cannot afford to have it.

2 days later we went to the Rooftop Bar & Grill after dinner. That was during our extended trip because no flight back home yet until Monday.

From the rooftop -- the overview of Pub Street.

HalloWeen inspired by MJ

2009-10-31T22:47:00.007+08:00

Now I know why MJ is respected. His dreams inspired the world. His spirit was so loving. He was extremely committed, passionate and creative towards everything he did. "This Is It" revealed the footage of the rehearsal in the final days of his life for the last 50 concerts around the world. Please go and watch the original movie in the cinema, pay a tribute to MJ for all the effort showered into this last concert of his life.

For many more info on his movie and some clips, click here.

His music will live on forever. And though I was not a big fan of MJ, I still love the lyrics of his songs because there was always a lot of love and value, especially this one..."Man in the Mirror".

I'm starting with the man in the mirror
I'm asking him to change his ways
And no message could have been any clearer
If you wanna make the world a better place
Take a look at yourself and then make a change

Right, always think back of what you have done instead of pointing to other people. Every changes begin from you. And I could still hear MJ's message clearly -- "Even when we know that the earth is sick, we always think that the government will take care of it, they know what to do. THEY "WHO"??? They?? We should do it, starting from ourselves. We!" So every move should start from ourselves, I totally agree. We are too used to pointing towards people instead of ourselves. Many people would say I DON'T GIVE A DAMN. So who's going to suffer since everybody doesn't give a damn. Move out to Mars. Same as everyday life, don't expect people to change, if everyone can start the change from ourselves, life will be much beautiful. Numerous time you can hear from the movie that he said "Let's try it again, that's the reason we have rehearsal. God bless you!" He wsn't angry at all when his crew made mistake or couldn't meet his expectations.

I was touched and I am really glad that I gave myself a meaningful 2 hours in the theather watching the King of Pop who inspired millions of souls in the world on this day - Halloween. It's my name's 27th birthday (I'm 26 but my mom n dad named me right after I was in her tummy) today. Watching some of the on site shooting of a few clips for his concert like "Thriller" and "Smooth Criminal" reminded me a lot about the 10 hours spent with our A* movie crew months back. Shooting a movie was hell difficult (we even went to the cemetery...) but it was a great experience. Tonight I did not join the Oktober Feste nor the Halloween Party. Just finished a can of 12.5% alc. Dutch beer while listening to MJ's songs and typing here.

Before 12am, I wish everyone a Happy HalloWEEN!~
(this was during our film shooting in Feb'09 for the annual dinner, little witch Hermione)

Cambodian Cultural Village - QIC Award Dinner

2009-10-29T00:34:00.002+08:00

Our QIC Award Dinner was held in Cambodian Cultural Village. We were welcomed by a team of performers when we reached there at 7pm. First time in my life that I'm being treated as a VIP.

We hopped on to the electric tour cars to get us to the cocktail party at the Millionaire House before dinner.

Basically this is how big that cultural village is. I copied it from the official page so you click it to its original page.

Photos are a bit shaky because the electric car was running fast!

There we were - the Millionaire House, right at the center of the cultural park. It extends out to the Floating and Fishing Village where we had our cocktail and the welcoming performance.

The 'uumph' for winning, fire in the heart.

I love the serenity, very peaceful after sunset.

Everybody queued for the blessing.

Another Krama (shawl) I got! A greeny Krama.

This is more than just a cultural village, in fact I was impressed by the buildings at the Fishing Village. This place has exactly the same concept like the cultural village in Shenzhen.

The cocktail party.

Just like the type of dim sum (appetizer) called 'beggar's bag'.

Candle light cocktail.

After sunset.

Such wonderful ambience.

And wonderful free flow of alcohol too~

Siem Reap after dark. Lights taking over sunshine.

While we waited for the show to begin.

The Fishing Dance.

PHILIPS on ice. Award dinner at the Mini Theater.

The naughty boy.

And the super lady.

This was the most popular food of the night - roast lamb.

Not just food... also for fun. Look at them!

A big feast for all of us!

Candle in the wind appeared to be a piece of nice artwork.

The crowd. Human and insects flying around. I've never seen such many flying bugs in my life!! Too small to be captured into photo. I've changed at least 5 glasses of wine because there were even little grasshoppers in my drink!!

This was the biggest tha hopped onto our table!

The winner takes it all!

One of these is mine! (^.^)

The Challengers' table. We did come all the way to challenge the others.

Food time~

Gaining fat.

PHILIPS in Siem Reap.

Evy you looked gorgeous!

Pretty hot mama.

Sean, Anthony and Nai. Drink, drink, eat...

Wignes, Noel, Cheryl. Drink, drink, drink! We're the alcoholic gang. =p

Apsara Dance performance.

More meat! I couldn't imagine if I did put on weight after the trip... Luckily the weather was too hot and burned all my fat. Hehehe...

The candles melted but they were such an artwork!

Receiving acknowledgement from the judges on stage. Every team had to go on stage and get the feedbacks on our presentation in the morning/afternoon.

Dinner continued with the Lotus Dance.

Some other traditional Khmer dance.

Such a wonderful night. More wonderful thing we yet to expect after this...

And....Oh MY GOD!!! We WON??!!

I've never felt so contented throughout the first 1 year plus in my career. The honour! I did it?? WE DID IT!! And what's on my mind at that time? I WON A TRIP TO MARRAKECH!!!

The moment of glory. Phone calls and SMSes after that. If you look at the replies, the management team was like WOW!! Unexpectedly great for the first timer.

Still couldn't believe we made it through..haha. Was dancing like a jerk on the stage during the ending.

And after that, of course another round of celebration at Pub Street!!

Muacks~ Thank you for everything and see you at the World Final in Marrakech!! Was I dreaming....

我又想要去旅行了！！I want to go travel!!

2009-10-21T12:56:00.004+08:00

Princess Cheryl's thought of the day:- My late form teacher Ms. Teh loved to travel a lot. I believe she influenced us very much, she used to share her experiences and stories in class... You're in heaven right now, I believe you have a magic carpet that can fly you everywhere. RIP..

想念。。I miss..

飞机里阅读杂志的日子 Days of reading magazine in the airplane

机场化妆间里补妆然后去公干的日子（我知道化妆都拍照真的很38。。） Days of make-up in the powder room in the airport (I know I sound like a bimbo to camwhore when make-up..)

孤零零睡酒店的日子 Days of sleeping alone in the hotel room

填入境卡的日子 Days of filling up the Landing Card

春天在山区度假的日子 Spending my holiday at the mountainside

出海游船河的日子~ Days of sailing off to the sea~

沙漠骑骆驼的日子。。Days of riding a dromedary..

晚上九点钟都还未天黑的日子。。Days where the sky is still bright at 9pm..

天啊！！我又心痒痒想去旅行了！！Oh my God!! I'm thinking to go travel again! ><"

My memories in Angkor Palace Resort & Spa (Siem Reap)

2009-10-20T07:58:00.000+08:00

This is a photo blog post for sharing my stay in this beautiful 5 star resort in Siem Reap during the QIC competition. Overall the value for money is 8/10. Very highly recommended (see tripadvisor reviews)if you are looking for a decent hotel for your Siem Reap trip.
Room rate for Angkor Palace Resort & Spa - from USD 116/night.

A tribute to my teacher, RIP...

2009-10-19T12:37:00.005+08:00

I don't know where to begin for this post. Days ago I lost someone who played an important role in shaping me in my life. My upper primary school form teacher, Ms. Teh. When we were small, we always had to choose to write from any of the title listed in the exam paper for essay, and one of the titles that I would never ever pick is "My Teacher". Why? Because if I wrote according to the real situation, I think I'd get "killed" in the exam. Another reason was I always thought the title sounds stupid, how could I describe my teacher when I didn't like her?! She was the most fierce teacher that I've ever met in my whole life! 3 consecutive years we never had a day without class test, standard 4 to standard 6, never stopped a single day, even during the Children's day, she would still give us a short dictation early in the morning before we go for the celebration.

A very very fierce and extreme teacher, whom we all hated her for almost 3 years until we left our primary. Not just us, I bet all her students who had studied in her class before hated her during the school days. Nevertheless, she never bothered how people judged her way of teaching, I could still remember, some parents always came to school and quarreled with her, and some parents went to our principal for complaints and so on, but she still endured her way of teaching the students.

All sorts of "tortures" we had at our classrooms daily -- she would yelled at anyone who failed to score above 80% for anything, and we would automatically walked outside of the classroom and started pulling ears at the corridoor, 1 time for 1 mark lesser than the target, so you could always see a whole class of students picking up books from the corridoor and started pulling ears, 1 time for 1 mark below the targetted 80%. So whenever someone in the class made a mistake, the whole building would know...that was quite embarrasing right? But it made us understand that you'll get whatever payback out of the effort that you pour in.

I know some parents couldn't bear the embarrasement faced by their children in her class, and even tried to 'bribe' her so that their children could have better treatment compare to the others, but she never took it. That's one of the biggest secret that I've never told, I heard about this unintentionally when some of the teachers talked about it in the office on weekend. I used to join her embroidery class last time, that's why... SHAME ON YOU PARENTS!! Bribing a teacher??!! She never revealed 'who' in the class, and I think my classmates themselves might not know what their parents had done too. I remembered she did said to the class, "IF YOUR PARENTS WANT WHAT'S BEST FOR YOU, ASK THEM TO COME TO ME AND DISCUSS FACE TO FACE."

She is a total 180degree different during the weekend co-curricular activities time with the normal class hours. I like her arts and crafts the most, her sewing skills and embroidery is the best that I've ever known of. At first I was so reluctant to attend her class for co-curricular activities because right then I would have to face her for all 6 days a week!! But after knowing her in real person, I felt so bad for misunderstood her as a bad teacher. She taught me a lot of things in 3 years, and I'm so grateful for that. We all realized that what she did for us was to boost our self-development after we left her, everyone started to miss her after we left primary. Without you, we would not be who we are today.

I bet none of her students was never scolded by her. Each of us got different naggings everyday, mine, "Jia Ween! If you are still that slow and being SO LADY all the while, even if you see a piece of gold in front of you, you'll never able to fight with the others and grab it just in time!!" Yeah, LADY... That's the word she used to describe me, slow and gentle, but it's only good as an attitude for the 17th-18th century ladies. She saw the weaknesses in us, and always went very extreme to shape us up. Ever since then, I was faster, faster and faster, and I really grabbed a lot of golden opportunities in life!! I think if she could see who I am now, she'd be pleased. I can say that students the more she scolded, the more successful they are today!

I'm too late to pay her a visit now, she's gone to heaven. The last time I met her was during form 3, when we purposely went back to school and paid her a visit. She was right, if you have something that you want to do, do it fast. I'm sorry for not being able to see you for one last time, I know it's useless to pay a tribute here for you my dear teacher. When I realized that you had left us, it's already after your funeral...

I will always remember the advice you give to me, for it had lead me to a brighter path for a lifetime...

自爱，自重，自然前途无量
Self-respect and self-assess will gain you endless prospects.

Maybe you rest in peace with God. There are flowers blooming in heaven, smells sweet just like the parfum that you love to buy. Thank you for being my most respectful teacher Ms. Teh!!

Things you must know before travel to Cambodia

2009-10-17T23:04:00.000+08:00

Travelling around the world, one of the things that satisfy me the most is gaining new friendship and helping people. Back in these 2 years, I've been around a few cities in Southeast Asia -- Phuket, Bali, Hanoi and Siem Reap. No doubt that the living standard in these places are very much lower compare to our country, and even the kids there need to strive hard to earn their next meal, and a lot of them didn't even have the chance to go to school!!

I have friends around Cambodia, which some of them own guesthouses in Siem Reap and Phnom Penh, so I decided to help them out (as much as I can, I'm not a famous blogger though) to promote their tourism that is now the boosting industry in their country, and help them grab customers as well. I really hope if it works, I can further enhance my travel planning thingy and do charity at the same time, because out of the profit that they earn, some of the % will go directly to certain foundations to help the kids and the poor. Of course there will be a few countries which I'm going to continue.

Starting from today, starting with Cambodia. Why Cambodia? If you know a bit about Cambodia, you will know that it has one of the worst landmine problem in the world, which continuously causing injury and death of the Khmers. Many children had to start making a living on their own since the age of 4 or 5. We should not only pity them, in fact, we should think of a way to make their life better, or at least has the chance to go to school. Without school they could even speak very good English and surprisingly some of them know even more than we do about the countries around the world, through self-learning and reading the books that they sell. These kids amazed me, and that's one of the main reason I'm promoting for my friends's guesthouses. For the sake of their education opportunity. Because we are the children of the world.

Despite the luxurious hotels which costs a USD100+ per night, would you opt for these clean and warm guesthouses? These are family-run guesthouses in Siem Reap owned by my friends. If you'd like to go to Siem Reap or Phnom Penh, please feel free to email to info@travelplanner.com.my for lower price compare to the online rates you could ever get. My friends had agreed to provide the best value for money ground arrangements plus accommodation for travellers whom I introduce. In order to drive their market, you'll never believe how cheap they can offer for a 3D2N/4D3N customized package... even lower than the suggested USD35/day. Am really looking forward that I can help them get more donations for the foundations that they are supporting, one of them is the Spitler School Foundation.

Ok, back to the useful travel information of Cambodia. I copied it from one of my partners' pages because it is indeed very complete for visitors who would like to visit to Cambodia.

Country: Kingdom of Cambodia
Area: 181,035km2
Population: Approx. 13 million
Capital: Phnom Penh
Language: Khmer but English widely spoken especially in Siem Reap
Religion: Buddhism
Time Zone: GMT +7 hours and BST +6 hours
Currency: Riel, but US dollars are widely accepted
Weights/Measures: Cambodia use the metric system

Money Matters
It is recommended that you bring US dollars to Cambodia, as Riel is only used for buying small items and for tipping. There is approximately 4,000 Riel to 1 US dollar. You can use ATMs in Siem Reap, Phnom Penh and Sihanoukville to withdraw US dollars. The following cards are accepted at the ATMs; Visa, Mastercard, Maestro, Cirrus and Plus. Major credit cards are accepted in the larger hotels and in restaurants. Traveller's cheques can be exchanged at banks, money exchangers and most of the bigger hotels at a charge of 2%. Cash advances are also available on Visa and Master cards from most banks and money exchangers. Banks are open from 8:00am to 3:30pm Monday to Friday and some banks are also open on Saturday mornings. Money exchangers open early and close around 10:00pm. All major currencies are easily exchanged especially Thai Baht and the Euro. Western Union and Moneygram transfers are available in most major towns and cities. If you want to transfer money, then bank transfers are the cheapest way to do it.

Please be aware that there is a lot of counterfeit US dollars in Cambodia, so you should check your US dollars before you arrive and also when in Cambodia, even from banks. Also make sure that your US dollars are in good condition, because most places will not accept torn notes even if they are very small.

Costs of visiting Siem Reap
Costs in Siem Reap are still relatively low compared to the more developed countries. However, Siem Reap is more expensive to visit than other towns in Cambodia, especially if you take into consideration the entrance fees to the temples. You can find more information about these costs in our Angkor Temples section.

Getting around Siem Reap is also another cost to consider. This can be done relatively cheap by bicycle at US$1.50 per day, but if you prefer to get around by a tuk tuk or taxi, then this will obviously cost you a bit more. You can find more information about the costs of getting around in our Getting Around section.

Accommodation is another cost to consider when visiting Siem Reap, although you can find places to stay from as little as US$1 per night for a dorm bed to luxury hotels costing thousands of dollars per night. Basically though, you can find many types of places to stay in Siem Reap from budget accommodation to top end hotels and spa resorts.

You can enjoy eating and drinking in Siem Reap, whether you are on a tight budget or on an unlimited budget, because Siem Reap has many road side food stalls where you can eat for less than US$1 to very fine restaurants where you can easily spend a US$100 per person for a meal. Siem Reap has many places to eat now, so whatever budget you are on you can eat quite well. If you like going out for a few drinks (or more), then Siem Reap still has places where you can spend less than US$1 for a glass of beer or a few dollars for a known brand spirit. There are also a number of nice bars and cocktail bars in town where you can spend a night socialising and meeting other travellers on less than US$5.

As for other costs in Siem Reap, then it is mainly the attractions and activities to consider. They are not really that expensive though and you just need to decide whether you want to visit them or not. For example, Old Market, Landmine Museum, Silk Farm, Cambodian Cultural Village, The Cambodian Killing Fields, and many more.

It is recommended a minimum budget of US$35 per day for visiting Siem Reap, as this would cover a pass for the day for visiting the temples, a bed for the night and something to eat and drink. It is possible to visit Siem Reap on less than US$35 per day, but you are not going to enjoy it very much and we think visiting the Ancient City of Angkor is probably a once in a lifetime experience for most people. Spare a US$60 per day if you want to stay in a decent hotel, take comfortable transport to the Angkor temples, buy your Angkor pass and eat and drink well.

Electricity
Since the end of November 2007, the electricity in Siem Reap has been on a trial period with electricity being supplied from Thailand. Prior to being supplied from Thailand, the electricity in Siem Reap was supplied by large diesel run generators. Siem Reap rarely has power cuts, but they do occur now and then. Most large hotels and restaurants have back up generators.

The electricity supply is 220 volts AC, 50Hz. Most of the plugs are flat 2-pin, but round 2-pin plugs are also used in some places. Adaptors are widely available.

Departure Tax
International departure tax for adults is US$25 per person, for children under 12 years old it is US$13 per person and for children under 2 years old it is free. Domestic departure tax for both adults and children under 12 years old is US$6. There is no charge for children under 2 years old.

Visas
All visitors require visas except nationals of Malaysia, Singapore, the Philippines and Laos. Tourist visas are single entry and are US$20. You will need to bring a passport sized photograph with you, although if you do not have a photograph the immigration officials will photocopy your passport for a fee of US$2. They are valid for a one month stay, but can be extended for a further month in Cambodia. However, they are expensive at around US$45. Children under 14 years of age do need visas but they are issued free. The minimum length of stay is 24 hours and your passport must be valid for at least 6 months on arrival. An onward ticket is very rarely asked for.

Business visas are single entry and are US$25. They can be extended for single entry for 1 month or 3 months and multiple entry visas for 6 months or 1 year.

Overstay of any visa is charged US$5 per day.

You may be able to obtain an e-visa. For more information see evisa.mfaic.gov.kh.

Nationals of the following countries must apply for a visa at a Cambodian Embassy before entering Cambodia and they must also have a letter of invitation or have a pre-arranged tour by a travel agent: Afghanistan, Algeria, Bangladesh, Iran, Iraq, Pakistan, Saudi Arabia, Sri Lanka and Sudan and a return is advised if you have letter of invitation.

Certain nationals may also have problems crossing overland borders so please check with the Cambodia Embassy first if you are going overland. There were a few cases where nationals of India have had problems crossing the border by land but by air it does not seem to be a problem.

Arriving at the airport
When you arrive at the airport you will need to fill out an “Items to declare form” and also an “Arrival and Departure" card. If you do not have a visa on arrival, you will also need to complete a visa application form and attach a passport sized photograph. If you do not have a passport photograph, then one of the officials will gladly take a photocopy of your passport so you can use that instead of a photograph in exchange for a few dollars.

More airport information can be found on the official Siem Reap airport website at http://www.cambodia-airports.com/siemreap/en/.

Health and Hygiene
The most common illness amongst tourists to Cambodia is diahorea or sunstroke. It is recommended that you always use bottled water and eat hot food, as this will reduce the chances of diahorea. Avoiding ice, salads and peeled fruit will help too. The heat and also drinking alcohol can have a big effect on your stomach as well. It's always a good idea to drink lots of water, wear a sun hat and keep out of direct sunlight.

Malaria is quite common in Cambodia, but not in Siem Reap or Phnom Penh. Anti-malarial tablets are not really needed, but if you are visiting other parts of Cambodia then it is advisable to take some form of anti-malarial tablets. Malaria is transmitted by mosquitoes which normally bite you in the evenings. To help protect yourself against Malaria then the best protection is to ensure that you cover up bare skin, especially in the evenings, use a Deet based repellent, mosquito nets, mosquito coils and also spray your room with mosquito spray before going to bed.
Dengue fever is also quite common in Cambodia and, unlike Malaria, it can be easily contracted in Siem Reap or Phnom Penh if precautions are not taken to avoid mosquito bites, especially in the rainy season or just after the rainy season. Dengue fever, like Malaria, is transmitted by the mosquito, but these mosquitoes bite during daylight hours unlike the Malaria carrying mosquito which normally bites in the evenings or early mornings. There is no vaccination for Dengue fever and, although it is not pleasant if you get it, it is rarely fatal as long as you seek medical attention as soon as possible. Protection against mosquito bites is the best protection against Dengue fever, so by following the same advice as above you can protect yourself against mosquito bites.

It is strongly advised you seek expert medical advice before travelling to Siem Reap.

H.I.V affects a large amount of the people working in the sex industry, as does Hepatitis B and C. There is very little chance of catching bird flu in Siem Reap. Many drugs are available over the counter which would not be in the west. If you do become ill, let your hotel manager know as most of the time they will know where to find a good doctor. For emergencies then go to the new Royal Angkor Hospital on the airport road (see http://www.royalangkorhospital.com/). We strongly recommend that you take out good travel insurance, one that will pay for transportation to Bangkok or home in case of emergency. You may also be better to see a doctor rather than go to some of the clinics for non emergencies, as you may find a receptionist diagnosing you with a serious medical problem.

Please be aware that drugs are illegal in Cambodia - so be warned!

For more health information see www.cdc.gov/travel/seasia.htm.

Postal services and communications
The main post office in Siem Reap is on the West side of the river on Pokambor Avenue which faces Siem Reap river and it maybe easier to find FCC Hotel then it is about 400m from there following the river. You can send postcards, letters and parcels abroad and the service is pretty good. You can also make domestic or international phone calls and their also have a fax machine if you need to fax something back home.

The post office is open Monday to Saturday from 7:30am to 11:00pm and also 7:30am to 5:30pm on Sundays.

There a number of parcel service companies that have opened up in Siem Reap, but the one that most people will know is DHL Express, which is facing the river near the Old Market.

Internet cafes and telephone calls
There are probably over 200 internet cafes in Siem Reap where you can use internet facilities and also make domestic and international phone calls. Internet rates are normally US$0.50 to US$1.00 per hour. International phone calls via the internet are nearly all under US$1.00 per minute to all countries.

To phone Cambodia the international code is 855 and area code for Siem Reap is 63. If you are inside Cambodia then you will need a “0” in front of the 63 to phone Siem Reap.

Mobile SIM cards
Tourist SIM cards are now available from around US$2 each and they last for 2 weeks. Officially you need to be a Cambodian national with an ID card or you need to live and work in Cambodia to be able to buy a SIM card for your mobile phone for longer than 2 weeks.

Photography
There are many photo shops in Siem Reap where you can develop photos or put your pictures onto a CD. Memory cards for digital cameras are widely available and are much cheaper than in the west. Camera batteries are also readily available in Siem Reap.

Tipping
Tipping is not expected, although it will be much appreciated by someone who is earning an average of US$50 a month in a restaurant. A few thousand riel or one US dollar is enough if you think they have served you well.

Security
Theft is the main concern in Siem Reap as the Police authorities take crime very seriously when it involves the tourists. However, Siem Reap is probably one of safest towns in Asia and definitely safer than most towns in the West.

Commonsense can prevent theft, such as not carrying shoulder bags where someone on a motorbike could snatch it from you. Most theft though will occur from the place where you are staying, so be warned. Always put your valuables in a sealed envelope which can not be tampered with without you knowing when using a hotel safe or deposit box. Do NOT believe the receptionist if they say that they do not have an envelope or if they say "no problem". Most hotels and guesthouses will tell you not to leave any valuables in the room, because they will not be held responsible. This includes cameras, money, passports and anything else that is of great value to you. You should always keep valuables in the hotel safe but when you do not, then it is at your own risk not the hotel management's. Most staff in hotels and guesthouses will NOT steal from your room but the temptation can still be too great for them if you left, say, US$500 in your room which is over 1 year's salary to them!

Siem Reap is quite safe to walk around during the day and in the evening. However, if you are going out late at night by yourself then we advise that you go with a tuk tuk or moto driver who you are familiar with. The police patrol Siem Reap in the evenings and many places have night security guards to deter thieves from premises.

Please be aware that, despite what you may have heard, the Khmer Rouge is no longer active in Cambodia and there are no bandits.

Finally, one last piece of advice. You will find Cambodians to be very friendly but, just as in any other country, they will expect you to be friendly in return. It is never wise to get involved in an argument with local people whichever country you are visiting and that includes Cambodia.

Dangers and annoyances
Ants
There a number of types of ant in Cambodia and some of them can give you very irritating bites. Do not attract ants to your room by leaving food lying around, especially anything with sugar in them or snack foods like crisps.

Bed Bugs
Bedbugs carry a lot of pathogens (germs) which cause diseases, but they are unlikely to transmit any disease to you and the only thing you are likely to get is the discomfort of the actual bite. Bed bugs are like vampires and can drink a lot more of your blood than a mosquito. They can be found anywhere, even in 5 star hotels if the beds are not checked regularly. They generally live in the mattress or in the woodwork of a bed. Bed bugs are red/brown colour and look like a small beetle in appearance.

Begging
There are a number of beggars in Siem Reap, especially around the Old Market area. Some of these beggars are actually very poor and really do need money or food, but unfortunately there are many professional beggars trying to get money from tourists. These people mainly operate around pub streets in the evenings and this can be very annoying to some people.

It is strongly recommended that you do not give money or food to any beggars as this does not help them in the long term. If you want to help people in their situation, then there are a number of Non-Governmental Organisations (NGOs) who are working with them, by trying to train them and helping them to find a job.

Dogs
Dogs can be very annoying in Siem Reap, because many people use them as guard dogs and when someone walks near their premises, their dog will start barking and when one dog barks everyone's dog start barking. Do not attempt to stroke any dogs even if they look friendly, because there is Rabies in Cambodia.

Land Mines
All the land mines have now been cleared around the temple area, so there is no cause for concern. However, if you are going anywhere off the main roads or tourist areas, then you should always employ the services of a guide.

Monkeys
The monkeys at the temples do look very friendly and you will see people feeding them close up, but be warned they can change their behaviour very quickly and remember there is rabies in Cambodia. They can also transmit tuberculosis (TB) and certain strains of hepatitis. It is actually illegal to feed the monkeys around the temples.

Mosquitoes
Mosquitoes can be very irritating more than anything else, especially in the evening. And of course they also carry some nasty diseases like Malaria and Dengue fever to name a few. To avoid them, cover up well in the evening showing little bare skin and also use a high deet repellent on any exposed skin. Hotels and guesthouses with a lot of greenery and stagnant pools will be over run with mosquitoes, especially in the rainy season and just after.

Scams
There is nowhere near as many scams in Siem Reap as in some Asian countries, but unfortunately as tourism grows the more scammers there are likely to be. It is recommended that you do some research before you arrive about how much things are likely to cost.

Snakes
There are many types of snake in Cambodia, but you are unlikely to see one as most snakes avoid people and you are also less likely to see any on the main tourist routes. However, you should still be careful when visiting temples with jungle growth, because there can be snakes in the undergrowth, some which are deadly like the ferocious Malayan Pit Viper. Luckily these snakes are very rare. Other poisonous snakes include the Common Cobra, which has a pretty toxic venom and the Crate snake, which has venom the same strength as the Cobra but it is more scary because when it bites it does not let go. Another snake which can be seen is the Green Pit Viper, which is a small tree snake which grows to about 2ft, poisonous and normally attacks its victims from above. The Golden Tree snake, or flying snake, which is also small can also be found in Cambodia, but it is very rare with only mild venom.

There are also many varieties of water snakes to be found in Tonle Sap Lake, some which are very rare like the File snake which gets its name from its skin being the same as a file. This snake has only been found in Cambodia. Many of these water snakes are poisonous, although few are deadly.

Traffic
The main danger to tourists is the traffic. Many Cambodians die through traffic accidents and tourists have also been killed too. We advise using a tuk tuk, taxi or mini bus, but you should think twice about getting on the back of a motorbike even if you are wearing a helmet. There is no law to the road and anything goes so be warned. You can NOT hire motorbikes in Siem Reap if you are a tourist, because the police do not allow it due to the high amount of traffic accidents. Although you will still see foreigners driving motorbikes in Siem Reap, they all work in Siem Reap.

Happy travelling to Cambodia!!

Siem Reap - Apsara dance

2009-10-17T01:14:00.002+08:00

Princess Cheryl's thought of the day:- Happy Deepavali!! Tomorrow we're going to our Indian friend's house for a feassst~

Apsara Dance is a form of Khmer Classical Dance, a Cambodia Royal Ballet which is widely seen around Cambodia. Apsara Dance is known as Robam Tep Apsara (in Khmer language), particularly inspired by the style from around one thousand Apsara statues in Angkor Wat.

Apsara on the walls of Angkor Palace Resort & Spa

We were entertained by a group of Apsara dancers before the welcoming dinner of QIC Regional Semi-Finals. Scroll down the pictures for a quick glance of Apsara dance movements. I did not captured any video because I was quite in a mess after the interactive games for deciding sequence of presentation the next day. In one of the rounds, both my high heels were lended for fulfilling the actions on stage. Then I stood bare footed on the soil for 10 minutes...

If you notice, the costume for performing an Apsara dance is not simple at all, the dancers have to prepare the items below --

Crown (Mekot)
Apsara Blouse and Skirt
Decorative Papaya Flowers (Lbak Pka Somyong)
Flowers Worn on Ears and Dangling Earrings
Collar (Sarong Kor)
Belt and Wrist Jewelry (Gong Dai)
Ankle Jewelry (Gong Cheung)
Sangva and Golden Flower

Indeed, it's not just a dance but a symbol of the Khmers, just like our Lion Dance, or tarian Mak Yong, or the Balinese Kecak Dance.

Meanwhile, I was doing my own Apsara Dance in the afternoon too... =p

Vegetarian Festival in Phuket - food

2009-10-15T23:30:00.000+08:00

Time flies, I was in Phuket for last year's vegetarian festival. Few more days and it'll be the ninth month of Chinese lunar calendar. Thought of sharing this post to give some idea to the soon-to-travel-to-Phuket people. Last year we purposely dropped by at Phuket Town in the morning to witness their famous street procession.

Everybody was busy praying for good business..

And everybody was wearing white. White represents purity and clean. We all wore white too. It's a custom to wear white if you want to participate in any of the Vegetarian Festival events.

We went to the famous temple for prayers.

Then we started craving for vegetarian food in the town. There were all sorts of vegetarian food that we seldom find in local. Even the jellies also look more colorful and just like an artwork.

Fried stuffs not to be missed.

Popiah.

Producing popiah wrappers.

Wedges and green bean cake.

Vege 'pau'.

Mini fried sweet potato balls.

Grill sweet corn.

Fried stuffed bread.

Fried noodle.

Desserts.

Selling vegetarian instant noodle too.

Candy floss.

Among all the sweet tooth, we all like this the best. I don't know what is it called. And it requires some expertise and skill to produce it. Requires flipping without breaking the very thin skin.

My favorite!!!! Mango glutinuous rice~

Pickled fruits.

This is also a must try. Taste like our Nyonya kuih.

My stomach was then filled with food, vegetarian food. Was sipping fresh fruit juice then.

I bought another packet of mango glutinuous rice for dessert after lunch.

Juicy sweetness. I never had enough of mangoes.

This dessert is definitely very filling.

Balinese loves crackers!

2009-10-13T01:11:00.003+08:00

I've been crunching a lot of crackers when I was in Bali. Day and night, almost every meal, except breakfast. *Am cruching my fav deep fried pork skin.*

You can find all sorts of crackers sold at food stalls.

Including my favorite deep fried pork skin. I tried it once, got it from my Philippino-Chinese mix student last time. His mother is a Pinoy, and every time when her sisters came visit them from the Philippines, they would pack a whole box of "junk food" and send to KL. It's really cheap in Bali, probably less than a Ringgit for a packet.

And for all dishes served, you will find prawn crackers. No doubt that the fried rice in Bali really taste good, the meat were very juicy. Worth to try!

I will write a review on Babi Guling rice in the coming post. Anyway most of the food in Bali is non-halal because more than 90% of the residents are practising Hinduism.

Indulge in the Uniquely Singapore experience

2009-10-09T17:10:00.000+08:00

I like how its Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong once described Singapore - "We may be small, but we have high hopes and big dreams and so long as we are a little red dot in the middle of Southeast Asia, let people know that we are a people who kill keep on trying and never say die. And with this spirit, the future is ours to make."

The first time that I stepped into Singapore was during 9 years old, which I could only remember that I touched a starfish at the Underwater World in Sentosa Island. In year 2006, I spent a short 3 days in Singapore, visiting relatives. The very next day, I spent a day in Sentosa Island at the Imbiah Lookout, sipping my wine cooler, and the next moment I was shouting all the way down the slope at the Luge Ride. Time was so short, and I was wishing that I could visit Singapore again!

Then last year on the 29-Dec, I was sent to Singapore on a business trip! But...you know, business trip is always very rush, and I could only spend my after work hours to enjoy Singapore. I tried the famous Tiffany Café & Restaurant's buffet, wrote a review on it, and surprisingly almost everyday the post attracted readers from google search!

After dinner, lucky enough I still had some time to walk around Chinatown.

I spent my new year countdown at Clarke Quay. The place is fantastic and I love it so much~

Overlooking Marina Bay on new year's day. I wanna go to Singapore again!! There's so much more that I haven't explore.

Why should I deserve Nuffnang's invite to Singapore? Obviously because I like the place sooo much and am already promoting it in my travelogs. Everyday I see people searching for the keywords "Singapore travel", "Singapore tour", and even "Tiffany cafe", and they came to my blog. ^.^ So if I were to be invited to the event, definitely there'll be much more that I will blog about! It means I'm contributing in promoting its tourism to the world. Then I should ask why don't I deserve an exclusive invite to Singapore... =P

As a traveler, we always have some expectations on where we are about to visit. Even the most carefree holidays will still give some expectations on the place, or at least what it's all about. I've been to Singapore a few times, but I still have so many places yet to be explored. Singapore is a blend of culture, cuisine, arts and architecture. No doubt, this little red dot in the middle of Southeast Asia, per described by its current Prime Minister, had shone its way to everywhere in the world. However, a dream 1-day itinerary is still a big challenge, because you only have max 24 hours a day, if you minus out your bedtime (say 4 hours), then you need to make full use of the 20 hours left to do what you'd like most.

So it's still all about planning, planning, and planning! Of the $$ budget and time budget. Talking about visiting Singapore as a traveler, one would need to put 3 major things into consideration: places of interest, transport and spending. This time due to the word "dream", I would then temporarily put spending budget aside. To me, Singapore is famous for its rich arts and culture, food, and lifestyle, beauty & Wellness, nightlife, and of course shopping~ If I were given a day in Singapore, I would plan it this way ---

Starting out my journey in the morning, I would first go to Chinatown by MRT. Oh right, before even I start my journey, I would first purchase the Singapore Tourist Pass at Changi Airport when I land in Singapore. The best way to see Singapore in the lowest cost - Singapore Tourist Pass at S$8/day only! It's always convenient to move around bus MRT and bus.

Ok now back to the itinerary, I will start my precious 1-day in Singapore from Chinatown (Chinatown MRT Station, NE4), enjoying a scrumptious dim sum breakfast in one of the dim sum shops along Temple Street, Smith Street and Trengganu Street. --photo from triciamorente.files.wordpress.com

After breakfast, it's time to visit the multi-religious heritage in the streets of Chinatown. Places that I would like to visit - Thian Hock Keng Temple, Buddha Tooth Relic Temple, Sri Mariamman Temple and the Jamae Chulia Mosque. While sightseeing and taking photos of the colorful and lively streets, I can also bargain for souvenirs, and not to be missed, buying some Chinese pork jerky (bak kua) for my family.

Chinatown. --photo from virtourist.com

Sri Mariamman Temple. --photo from jochenhertweck.com

After visiting Chinatown, I will continue my journey to The Merlion Park by taking a ride to Raffles Place (Raffles Place MRT Station, NS26/EW14). While walking along the Singapore River, I want to take a tour in the historical Civic District of Singapore. Buildings that I could glance - Asian Civilisation Museum, Victoria Theatre and Concert Hall, The Arts House at the Old Parliament, the Old Supreme Court, and The Fullerton Hotel. After snapping the picture of the Merlion, I will continue walking along the Esplanade Bridge to The Esplanade - Theatres on the Bay.

Raffles Place. --photo from theodora.com

After hours of walking and sightseeing, it's almost time for lunch. I could heard my stomach growling, hunger for the famous Laksa and Chicken Rice!! So Katong here I come! From The Esplanade, I could take a 10 minute walk through City Link Mall to City Hall MRT Station (NS25/EW13), and ride all the way to Tampines MRT Station (EW2). Then change to a bus ride (bus number 10, 12, 14, 32 or 40) to East Coast Road.

Tried Laksa in Singapore, but not this famous Katong Laksa. I always hope that one day I will have the time to go to Katong for a bowl of LAKSA!! --photo from nibbleofthoughs.blogspot.com

Katong District -- an area of rich blend of the Peranakan Culture (Chinese and Malay cultures), and my favourite Laksa! I think I'll almost burst my stomach savouring the local delights, and I could go to Katong Shopping Mall and visit my uncle, meanwhile savouring his famous chicken rice there too~ I've read many posts recommending his chicken rice as one of the best, but until now I still haven't eat at his stall yet. I know Katong area is really a food heaven. Slurrrppp~

My uncle's Delicious Chicken Rice, recommended in many food blogs. --photo from eatbma.blogspot.com

After lunch, I can do a little shopping at Bugis Street (Bugis MRT Station, EW12) before go all the way to Sentosa Island (Harbour Front MRT Station, NE1; then take the Sentosa Express or cable car). Time for a little prayer at the temple too, for a safe flight back home. --photo from goseasia.about.com

--photo from flickr.com/photos/sai_tun

I'll be in Sentosa just in time to see the lovely pink dolphins at the Dolphin Lagoon. Then I will rent a bike and cycle around the island. Seen people did that but until now I still haven't got a chance.--photo from viator.com

--photo from ktelontour.blogspot.com

Waving goodbye to the largest Merlion, I then continue my journey to Orchard (Orchard MRT Station, NS22) for shopping and dinner. I will find a restaurant to savour another famous Singapore delicacy -- the Chilli Crab. Strolling along the streets shopping like another hotel heiress, I could have the chance to see an event roadshow, or if I'm luckier, meet an artist! --photo from streetdirectory.com

--photo from julianaheng.com

Last but not least, departing from Orchard Road to Clarke Quay (Clarke Quay MRT Station, NE5) for a chill out and party all night long! I could again spend my night sitting beside the riverbank and watch the lights changing color.

I would pump up my adrenaline with a reverse bungee jump at the G-Max, then party at the themed bars and clubs along the Singapore River. Last business trip I went for countdown at Clarke Quay and was amazed by the bungee jump! However the queue was too long so I missed trying it.

At Clarke Quay I could even taste the world famous Singapore Sling at True Heritage Brew Singapore Sling Boutique (#01-05, Clarke Quay) and get a small bottle of the famous Singapore Sling as a unique souvenir for my friends. --photo from travel-singapore-with-me.com

Singapore is a 24-hour metropolitan! If I never get drunk after partying, I could still opt for midnight shopping at Mustafa Centre. --photo from g4station.com

Indulge in the Uniquely Singapore experience!

You see, I planned it the way that a travel planner could plan, just nice for a maximum 24-hour indulgence the Merlion's hometown. So give me the tickets to Singapore~ (^.^) I'll make sure I write a great one about the event.

Tower Bridge, London

2009-10-09T12:01:00.000+08:00

Princess Cheryl's thought of the day:- I am very very tired these days... Work from morning till night. I need a short vacation to rejuvenate. Luckily my coursemate gathering is only one day ahead, thus going to Genting and KL for a short break...and it's time to top up my little wardrobe too~ Heheh..

London Bridge is falling down, falling down, falling down,
London Bridge is falling down, my fair lady.

If you think London Bridge is the huge bridge that you watched in "The Mummy Returns" then you've got it wrong. It's name is Tower Bridge. Tower Bridge is a combined bascule and suspension bridge over the River Thames. It is very close to the Tower of London, which gives it its name. The photo above was from Wikipedia, such a nice view of Tower Bridge at sunset. I went there in the early morning when the weather was still a bit misty due to rain.

After having our quick breakfast at Pret A Manger, we headed to Tower Bridge. It took about a 10-minutes walk from London Bridge Underground Station.

The old British buildings behind me.

I was attracted by this huge red wall of More London Place building. I stopped by and took a picture, and by the next moment I was being scolded by the security guard who rushed all the way out from the lobby! Why was I always get scolded for taking pictures...duh.

Tower Bridge is right after this narrow pathway.

Ta~da~ Tower Bridge!!! It was windy and still drizzle a little.

I was really in London then. It's a signature of London. Strong wind~~ Look at my hair.

A moment later the wind stopped blowing.

And then it blew again~~

I couldn't get a nice pose due to the strong wind...arrgghhh. Advice -- tie your hair when you visit Tower Bridge.

The bridge is 800 feet (244 m) in length with two towers each 213 feet (65 m) high, built on piers. The central span of 200 feet (61 m) between the towers is split into two equal bascules or leaves, which can be raised to an angle of 83 degrees to allow river traffic to pass. The bascules, weighing over 1,000 tons each, are counterbalanced to minimize the force required and allow raising in five minutes.

Overlooking the River Thames is Tower of London, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Its real name is Her Majesty's Royal Palace and Fortress, but only more commonly known as the Tower of London. It's located at the north bank of the River Thames.

And this, HMS Belfast (C35) is one of the two ships forming the final sub-class of the Royal Navy's Town-class cruisers, the other being HMS Edinburgh. She was initially expected to be disposed of as scrap but after a private trust campaign went on, she was preserved as a museum ship in the Pool of London, and opened to the public in 1971, and being maintained as a branch of the Imperial War Museum since 1978.

London's sky is most of the time full of clouds. Hardly see blue sky during early Spring.

That's why most of the photos I took in London have very dull background tone.

Initially I wanted to submit this photo to SilverKris and maybe I still stand a chance to win something if they publish it in the next volume, but Noel said NO because people might misunderstood that we're dating each other...

Moments later tourists started barging in.

The QIC team group photo before we left for Big Ben.

A Guide to Korean Women’s Beauty Secrets Part.2: Jjimjilbang

2009-10-06T21:27:00.000+08:00

Adapted from KTO (Korea Tourism Org)
A Unique Korean Beauty Experience

A visit to the jjimjilbang should feature on the itinerary of every visitor to Korea. Simply put, it is a Korean-style large-scale sauna or spa. The jjimjilbang contains various kinds of different rooms, which are heated to 40-80 degrees Celsius. These sauna rooms are all made from different materials, such as yellow earth, minerals, precious stones, and salt. As you sweat, toxins and wastes from the body are released, and good energy and minerals from these rooms are absorbed. Jjimjilbangs generally contain public baths as well. Here visitors can soak in hot tubs that often contain various natural ingredients such as green tea or ginseng. Consequently, those who care about the beauty of their skin flock to the jimjilbang. However, this is not just a place for beauty. With a variety of entertainment facilities, jjimjilbangs are favorite destinations for families to relax and spend time together. They are open 24 hours a day and are thus used as overnight lodging as well. Still a little confused as to what a jjimjilbang is? Then, read on for more information.

How to use a Jjimjilbang

① Check in at the front desk: Pay up front and get a towel, a T-shirt and shorts, and a locker key.
② Change clothes: Pay up front and get a towel, a T-shirt and shorts, and a locker key.
③ Enjoy the facilities: A jjimjilbang consists of a main hall for relaxation and a number of sauna rooms surrounding the hall. You can sweat for about 5 minutes in a sauna room and come out to rest in the main hall before trying out a different kind of sauna room. Usually, a restaurant, snack bar, nail salon, spa, and a fitness facility are also available at the Jjimjilbang for an added fee.
④ Check-out: If you take advantage of any extra options in addition to the basic facilities, you can pay for them when checking out.

★★Experience!! Jjimjilbang>> Dragon Hill Spa
Make your way along the tree-lined Winter Sonata walkway and enter this fabulous complex. Located across from Yongsan KTX station, the Dragon Hill Spa is an expansive jjimjilbang complex that’s spread over 7 floors and includes a rooftop terrace. Various facilities are available, including a traditional charcoal sauna and many different themed sauna rooms, open-air baths, a swimming pool, and a fitness facility. Best of all, the entrance fee of 10,000 won covers all facilities and there are no additional charges. Basic admission is for up to 12 hours, but when you see all the different facilities available in this jjimjilbang, you might feel that a day is just not enough.

Have the Ultimate Jjimjilbang Experience at the Dragon Hill Spa!
Traditional Charcoal Oven
Negatively charged ions and far infrared rays released from the charcoal help enhance the blood circulation and metabolism.

Pine Tree Firewood Sweat Room
This room helps the body release toxins.

Crystal Light Salt Room
Lie on the floor covered with salt that has been purified by hours of heating. The salt is believed to have natural healing effects.

Hinoki Forest Bath Room
This room supplies clean oxygen for relaxation. As you rest in this room made from cypress (Hinoki) wood, you will feel as if you are in a forest. Make sure to stop here to refresh yourself after sweating in a high-temperature room.

Yellow Earth Pyramid Room
In addition to the far infrared rays released from the yellow earth, the pyramid-shaped room is said to exude vitality enhancing energy.

Natural Jade Energy Room
Far infrared rays released from jade are particularly good for patients and those people who want to take care of their skin. The temperature is above 50 degrees Celcius, so take care not to overdo it.

Ice Room
The chilly temperature helps blood vessels and skin to regain their normal size and elasticity after spending time in the hot sauna rooms.

Each room has a thermometer, so you can find the right sauna room for your body constitution.

Since it appeared in the TV drama My Lovely Samsoon, the sheep ears towel hat has become an instant hit, and is now universally worn at jjimjilbangs.

Shaved ice patbingsu or cold beer are refreshing after sweating in the sauna rooms. Just don't get too carried away and undo all the beauty benefits you got from the sauna rooms.

The bracelet key is your virtual cash for using those facilities that require an extra fee. You can settle the payment when checking out.

☞ Location: Subway Line 1, Yongsan station / Exit Yongsan station plaza and Dragon Hill spa is on the right.
☞ Tel: 02-792-0001
☞ Hours: 24 hours
☞ Official site: www.dragonhillspa.co.kr
☞ Prices: Daytime (05:00-20:00) 10,000 won, Night-time (20:00-05:00) 12,000 won (for adults) (Price does not include auxiliary services such as dining facilities, massages, etc)
☞ Nearby tourist attractions: N Seoul Tower / National Museum of Korea

Sealala Spa & Water Park

Located in Yeongdeungpo-gu in Seoul, Sealala Spa is a large spa and water park facility in the heart of a bustling commercial district. It has an impressive interior reminiscent of Santorini, Greece. Sealala has both high-temperature and low-temperature sauna rooms, offering more choices for visitors unfamiliar with jjimjilbangs. It uses the highest quality charcoal, salt, yellow earth, and aromatic plants that are beneficial for your health. You’ll feel like you are basking in nature. You can also have fun on Sealala Spa’s water slides and wave pools.

☞ Location: Subway Line 2, Mullae station, Exit 4 → Walk 300 meters to the east → LOOX building, 2nd Basement level [See a Map]
☞ Tel: 02-2628-9000
☞ Hours: 24 hours
☞ Official site: www.sealala.com
☞ Price: Weekdays: Daytime (05:00-21:00) 8,000 won, night-time (21:00-05:00) 10,000 won (adults)
Weekends: Daytime (05:00-19:00) 8,000 won, night-time (19:00-05:00) 10,000 won (adults)
(Price based on high season 07/18-08/23, rental of jjimjilbang clothes 1,000 won)

Beauty tips when visiting a Jjimjilbang

① Whenever necessary, use a cold, wet towel to soothe and moisturize the skin.
② When thirsty, drink water instead of other beverages.
③ Scrubbing salt on the body helps eliminate toxins faster, resulting in smooth skin.
④ Facial pores will open after sweating, so try a mask pack to rapidly soothe and moisturize.

I explored the Angkor Wat at night

2009-10-04T23:45:00.001+08:00

Imagine walking under the stars into the almost a 1000-year-old Angkor Wat. Listen to the howling wind beside your ears, and walk like a blind man through the half kilometre causeway over the moat into the ancient temple. If you've been to Angkor Wat, you'd know how bad is the causeway condition. If you haven't been, give some imagination from the picture below. That was during day time.

After coming back from Siem Reap, I only realized that we're among the first batch of people to explore Angkor Wat at night!!! Read this.

After dinner at Angkor Cafe somewhere opposite Angkor Wat, we then walked to the historical site for a night time adventure. See the half kilometre causeway you need to walk before entering the main temple？We walked across it under the stars.

Yes indeed. Now we're stepping into the night adventure. A 800-year-old relic was just right beside us at the entrance.

After passing by the entrance temple, the light source is only from Angkor Wat itself.

Zooming in to the towers.

Angkor Wat combines two major features of Khmer architecture - pyramid and concentric galleries.

Somewhere on the right hand side of the causeway across the moat.

I doubt if this is the N 'library' of the outer enclosure. Too dark...can't be sure.

They even prepared a night cultural performance. But...the distance was so far away.

I like the reflection.

This causeway was built more than a century later than the temple. It's the W (west) entrance gopura with the remains of three towers.

Heading up to the W Gallery.

Performers welcomed us with the traditional music.

To the left - Battle of Lanka.

To the right - Battle of Kurukshetra.

Apsaras on the wall.

Entrance of the W Gallery.

Felt a little spooky to walk in the ancient temple at night.

Dance in the ancient temple.

Finally we're in the gallery.

The Khmers, beautifully dressed up and welcoming us.

The dance went on.

My temporary 'ah sei' helped me carry my handbag while I was busy taking photo... =p

Battle of Kurukshetra (W Gallery, S section)

The Kaurava army advances into the Battle of Kurukshetra.

Lots more of the battle legends. These are all hand carved. Cut by cut they illustrate all the stories and legends onto the temple's walls. If I got it right, they spent at least 40 years to get all done!! 40 YEARS!!

Suddenly it started to rain!!?! Very heavily.

Gosh...how to walk all the way back across the causeway without umbrella??!

Our guide kept telling the tales of the ancient Angkor kingdom, and the battles that the Khmers had gone through to protect their kingdom.

On the wall - Khmer foot soldiers. And the light, that's our PLLC LED torch, single LED.

Too much of stories at the same time, I couldn't digest... Luckily I bought some books about Angkor in the afternoon, then I can read and understand more later on.

Apsaras on the inner wall of the W entrance gopura.

Would you dare to walk alone? Besides the rainfall and howling wind, there were shadows everywhere!

Live performance. I don't know what was the dance called. Apsara dance maybe.

Princess and the performers.

Sincere smile of the Khmers.

Worse...the rain got heavier.

And we're stucked beneath the leaking walls...water dripping.

While waiting for the rain to stop, we talked to them, and of course not forgetting to take photos.

For a memory in my life, I walked with the Khmers in Angkor Wat at night! I'm not sure when will the Cambodia government open this place for tourist visit at night. It's a great experience.

Rain drops were still as big as pearls when we left. However, thank God that the organizers did brought along a few umbrellas!

3 people shared 1 umbrella, and by the time we got into the coach, my shoes were flooded. These holes were as deep as 3-4 inches and full of water, and the ground was super slippery after it rained for a while. Moreover it's a raining night.

And never forgetting, when you walk the opposite side away from Angkor Wat there was no light at all!!! It was really a challenge that we gotta make sure we did not walk in zigzag into the moat. WHAT AN EXPERIENCE.

Check out my adventures in Siem Reap under the tags of *Siem Reap.

Happy Mooncake Festival! 中秋节快乐

2009-10-03T23:40:00.003+08:00

Out of all the mooncakes that I had this year, this one is my favorite.
A special gift from my dearest aunt -- a piggy (that's my chinese horoscope).
Thank youuuuu~ and lotsa hUgggsssss~

Its Krrunch Time, Get Playful!

2009-10-02T23:30:00.005+08:00

Who doesn't love Pringles?

And since I still stand a chance to win an exclusive invitation to Nuffnang Asia-Pacific Blog Awards 2009 , I'm gonna love it mooorrreee!

Sharing with you - my Krrunch Time at HOME

Munching food can creative and innovative. And for Pringles, we can call it the pop art - popping a potato slice into your mouth and krrunch it~

For an all-time-busy engineer like me, some weekends are the days that would kill me at home... DOING REPORT!! So I tend to get a little moody at time when I'm sick with eating instant noodles or drinking instant soup.

So what's the fun to bring back my mood on food while rushing for the report without leaving home?

It's Pringles!

I searched around my kitchen, get a little creative with lunch. Get some Pringles.

The formulae >>

There goes my Pringles-chicken sandwich!

I krrunch my lunch~

“Its Krrunch Time, Get Playful!”

Guinness Draught

2009-10-02T22:47:00.003+08:00

In one of the events 2 months back, my uncle imported 2 barrels of Guinness Draught from Europe (I forgot which country...got a little drunk at that time...) They taste totally different!!

Now guess which glass is the local stout and which glass is the imported one? I'll tell you in the next post.

Well...should they pay me for this...? HAHAHA... 无聊(^.^")

A Guide to Korean Women’s Beauty Secrets Part.1: Spas

2009-10-02T13:40:00.001+08:00

Princess Cheryl's thought of the day:- One of my favorite passtime is to indulge myself in the newsletters from various tourism organizations around the world!~ Gonna make sure I decorate my room the way that I can spend my weekends in leisure mode, and having drinks in my balcony, looking to the sea opposite. Just like another day of vacation, but only in my house. ^.^

Adapted from KTO (Korea Tourism Org)
A luxurious treat for your body and mind

While women everywhere want to be beautiful, a walk along the crowded streets of Seoul shows that a vast majority of Korean women consider beauty care to be very important. As a result there are a large number of beauty treatments available in Seoul, and Korea’s capital city has become a major destination for beauty services.

Having a relaxing massage or facial at a spa is one of the best ways to revitalize your skin and restore your balance. Many of the major hotels and resorts in Korea now provide luxury spa facilities, and as you make your way through the bustling streets of downtown Seoul, you'll also find countless boutique spas where you can relax and be pampered like a beauty queen. We sent our reporters out to discover some of the best spas in Seoul.

Hotel Spa – Relax at a luxury spa and get pampered in style

Originally, hotel spas were available only to customers staying at the hotel, but more recently they have started opening their doors to non-guests. Prices vary depending on the spa service and treatment time, but expect to spend between 200,000 won and 300,000 won in a luxurious hotel spa, which has premium facilities and services and professional therapists who take pride in their treatments. Why not pamper yourself? You deserve it.

■ Hotel Shilla, Guerlain Spa

The spa is a joint venture between Guerlain, a French cosmetic brand, and Hotel Shilla, one of the leading hotels in Korea. A dozen professional therapists trained at the Guerlain headquarters in Paris analyze the physical condition and lifestyle of each client in order to plan a personalized program of spa services. The treatment rooms are particularly calming with wood paneled interiors and a view of Mt. Namsan. All treatments are preceded by a 15-minute foot massage that is unique to Guerlain Spa. After your treatment, you can try samples of Guerlain’s skin care, make-up, and fragrance products.

☞ Location: 3rd Floor of the Shilla Hotel. Located close to Dongguk station, Subway Line 3.
☞ Tel: +82-2-2230-1167
☞ Hours: 07:00–22:00
☞ Official site: www.shilla.net (Korean, English, Chinese, Japanese)

■ W Hotel, Away Spa

Overlooking the Hangang River, Away Spa has a striking modern interior with neon signs artistically arranged on white walls. Their signature treatment is “Awayssage”, which is a total body massage and a body scrub made from lavender flower buds and warm salt. The spa is also famous for its water treatments, such as the watsu massage where your body is stretched by a skilled therapist while you lie in warm water. This serene experience will soothe the body and soul.

☞ Location: The spa is located on the 5th floor of the W Seoul Walkerhill Hotel. Free shuttle buses to the hotel run from exit 2 of Gwangnaru station (subway line 5) and from outside Techno Mart by Gangbyeon station (subway line 2).
☞ Tel: +82-2-2022-0450
☞ Hours: 09:00–21:00
☞ Official site: www.wseoul.com (Korean, English, Japanese)

■ Grand Hyatt Seoul, The SPA

Designed to be a “garden in the city,” The Spa offers quality hotel spa services at affordable prices. Customers receive a program that is personally designed to suit their preferences and body conditions. Choose your favorite background music and aroma oil, as well as which flavor of tea you’d like to drink as you relax after your treatment.

☞ Location: In the second basement level of the Grand Hyatt Hotel, close to exit 1 of Hangangjin station, subway line 6.
Or take a shuttle bus from opposite the Migliore department store in Myeongdong (subway line 4, Myeongdong station). Buses leave at 20 minutes past the hour (Tel. +82-2-799-8088).
☞ Tel: +82-2-799-8808
☞ Hours: 10:00-22:00
☞ Official site: www.grandhyattseoul.co.kr (Korean, English)

★★ Personal Experience!! Hotel Spa>> Plaza Hotel, Plaza Spa Club

Despite its location right in the center of Seoul, the Plaza Spa Club is a haven away from the bustling city. Here customers can find peace and quiet as they balance the body and mind. This healing spa focuses on soothing the soul and nurturing the body through medical treatments designed by our physician using therapies rooted in both Asian and the Western traditions.

I tried the Korean massage, which is popular among international travelers, and is based on ginseng, a traditional Korean medicinal herb. I was massaged using an herbal ball, which was a special mix of ginseng-infused oil and medicinal herbs. It helped enhance blood circulation and relaxed the stiffness and tension in my shoulders. I felt all my stress and fatigue melt away.

☞ Location: 15th and 16th floors of the Hanhwa building behind the Plaza Hotel. Close to exit 6 of Seoul City Hall station (subway lines 1 & 2)
☞ Tel: +82-2-310-7800
☞ Hours: 10:00-22:00 (Sundays 10:00–21:00)
☞ Official site: www.seoulplaza.co.kr (Korean, English, Japanese)
☞ Major treatments: Korean massage using medicinal herbs is popular. Facial treatment called Pure Gold 24K prevents ageing.
☞ Nearby tourist attractions: Deoksugung Palace／ Seoul Museum of Art／ Chongdong Theater

Day Spa –Enjoy an individualized spa at a reasonable price!

If a hotel spa seems a little expensive, why not try some of the many general day spas in Seoul, which are often more affordably priced. These boutique spas offer a range of services, and many promote their own line of spa products. The advantage is that every day spa has its own ambience. The day spas listed below offer services ranging from 100,000won to 200,000 won. Although their facilities are not as luxurious as those in hotels, you can still enjoy high quality treatments and a relaxing ambience.

★★ Personal Experience!! Day Spa>> Will Spa

Located in the business district of Samseong, Gangnam-gu, Will Spa is an authentic Korean spa. As soon as you enter, you’ll notice the zen-like ambience created by the Asian-style interior and colors. After enjoying a relaxing aromatic tea, you will fill out a customer card and decide which spa program to take. You’ll then be pampered by a therapist who specializes in the treatment that you chose.

Will Spa offers a variety of specialized therapies using stones, which impart an amazing natural healing energy. I decided to try the Healing Stone Massage for the benefits of eliminating body waste and enhancing blood circulation. Stones that have been soaking in hot water are placed one at a time on the body, starting from the nape of the neck, and moving down to the shoulders and back. Instantly, the warmth of the stones spread over my body, relaxing it. As the therapist began to massage me with her hands, I fell asleep and the 90 minutes passed like a flash. After the treatment, I was given advice on which parts of my body were unbalanced and how to maintain a healthy lifestyle. As I emerged from the spa with a subtle fragrance on my skin, I realized that beauty is not only skin deep, but also comes from your inner body and mind.

☞ Location: 2nd floor of Oakwood Premier COEX Center, 3 minutes walk from exits 5 and 6 of Samseong station (subway line 2). [See a Map]
☞ Tel: +82-2-3466-8100
☞ Hours: 24 hours
☞ Official site: http://www.willspa.co.kr (Korean)
☞ Major treatments: Healing Stone Massage, Will Fusion, Sweet Heart Chocolate Spa, and Just for Men.
☞ Nearby tourist attractions: COEX Mall／ Seven Luck Casino

■ The Amore Spa

Located inside the Lotte Department Store in the heart of Seoul, The Amore Spa is operated by Amore Pacific, Korea’s largest cosmetic brand. Amore’s Halla Green Tea program is famous for using natural green tea leaves picked from their own garden on Mt. Hallasan in Jeju. Green tea leaves are known for their benefits in preventing ageing and controlling sebum on greasy skin. You can experience their full line of green tea treatments including oil extract, bath products, and scrubs. Before and after your spa treatment, you could enjoy a movie, have some tea, or shop at the Lotte Department Store thanks to the spa’s ideal downtown location.

☞ Location: 10th floor of the Lotte Department Store’s Avenuel building, which is directly connected to exit 7 of Euljiro 1-ga station, subway line 2.
☞ Tel: +82-2-2118-6221
☞ Hours: 10:30-20:30
☞ Official site: www.amorepacific.com (Korean, English, Japanese)

■ Hannule Spa

Hannule Spa offers herbal medicine treatments at moderate prices. The spa believes that all skin troubles are rooted in internal imbalances. Using the aroma of the herbs coupled with a refreshing hand massage, the therapists focus on enhancing the body’s circulation. The spa is located on the second floor of the Aritaum cosmetic store in Myeongdong, so you can do some shopping before your beauty treatment.

☞ Location: Take subway line 4 to Myeongdong station and come out of exit 6. Walk down the main street for two minutes and you will find the Aritaum cosmetics shop on your left. Hannule spa is on the second floor. [See a Map]
☞ Tel: +82-2-318-2785
☞ Hours: 11:00-21:00
☞ Official site: http://www.hannule.com/jung/jung01.jsp
☞ Prices:40,000 won – 120,000 won

Spa Tips!

① Spas’ busiest hours are on Fridays and weekends and in the evening on weekdays. If you are a traveler and can easily adjust your schedule, try to avoid these hours in order to have a more relaxing spa experience. Reservations are required, so make sure to call the spa in advance.

② Don’t be intimidated by the long list of treatments available. Simply consult with a therapist to find the program suited to you. Most of the staff can speak English or Japanese, and some Chinese. If you still aren’t sure what to chose, just ask for their most popular treatment!

公主的05圣诞旅行 - 第8篇 (My X-mas vacation '05 - Day 8)

2009-09-30T22:09:00.001+08:00

昂平，去天坛大佛必经之站。n年前要去天坛大佛，一定要搭巴士，而且是整整1个钟的车程。

我又在车上睡着了。。。一张开眼睛，已经到了天坛大佛咯！现在昂平360已经建筑完毕，所以去天坛大佛的路程没有以前我们去的时候那么沉闷啦。话说回来，这座佛像坐在268级的石階上，由202块铜片组成（佛身160块、莲花36块、云头6块），高26.4米，连莲花座及基座总高约34米，重250公吨，坐於3层祭坛上，耗资超过6000萬港元，是世界上最大的户外青铜座佛。

大佛的对面，就是宝莲禅寺。才早上九点多而已，没什么地方好去的，走来走去就这两个景点。那时以前的故事啦，现在不同咯，应为吊缆车游昂平360，有很多景点呢。

已经是第八天了，就轻轻松松地过吧。这天都是随走的，只有看照片来拼故事。

大屿山全景。。不，只是一部分而已，这个角度是从大佛的正面拍下去的。

别人去天坛大佛大多吃素，但是我们却倒反。。。吃“车仔面”。车仔面其实就是香港的一种廉价面食，如果你有看周星驰的《食神》，那碗莫文蔚煮的面就是啦~

车仔面出现在1950年代，是香港市民生活水平较低的年代。国内难民涌来香港，谋生困难，香港街头涌现了流动摊贩，最多便是搭起车仔面档摆卖咖喱鱼蛋和车仔面一类熟食。贩卖车仔面的木头车中放置金属造的“煮食格”，分别装有汤汁、面条和配料，配料通常有鱼蛋、牛丸、猪皮、猪红、萝卜等平价菜色。顾客可为面条自由选择配料，通常十多块钱就可饱吃一顿。

随着生活水平改善和卫生要求提高，街头熟食贩卖渐渐消失。车仔面走进茶餐厅和食堂，成为餐牌上的菜色，也有小型专售车仔面的店铺，甚至有走“高档”路线的。车仔面的配料也愈来愈丰富，面条亦有多种选择，计有：幼面、粗面、油面、伊面、河粉、米粉、公仔面、乌冬等。汤汁有清汤、牛腩汁、麻辣酱等选择。

兜兜转转的一个早上，终于又回到地铁站了。搭地铁离开大屿山，回到香港岛。这是东涌站，是大屿山的站。

那时候，昂平360只是策划中，还没开始建呢。

终于，回到港岛了！今天，我们参观艺术馆。。很有文化吧。。哈哈~

然后就到赤柱去了。

看到我手上的袋袋吗？有所收获了啦。。。

这天是圣诞节前夕哦！！我们在整1万人的拥挤街道（尖沙咀钟楼前）倒数~

人挤人。。像蚂蚁群吗？

香港，人口真的很多很多！！为了顾及交通及行人的方便和安全，大部分的道路已经封锁了。我们就只好在人潮中一步步地走回佐敦的酒店。。。就这样，倒数圣诞完毕，终于过了平第一次的异国圣诞节。 (^.^)

MidNight posession in front of my house!

2009-09-30T14:47:00.003+08:00

Midnight 12.25am, a big group of people (I think they're from the Indian temple near my house) passed by my house last night! I think they were having some sort of celebration, like the Hindu God's birthday..?

Gosh...I was able to record the final few seconds before they left. The whole thing lasted about 10 minutes in front of my house.

洁肤DIY

2009-09-28T23:58:00.004+08:00

>>今天起会继续分享我的美容知识啦，公主小小美容教室>>
(click on the translator on your top right bar if you cannot read chinese)

每天洗脸，是不是真的够干净呢？保养肌肤的第一步，就是把脸蛋洗得够清洁呀。

有些人，拼命地把所有最滋润的面膜往脸上贴，但是做面膜之前的洁肤步骤却做得不够好，结果就弄巧反拙了，还长了满脸豆豆，吃力不讨好。

所谓好的开始就是成功的一半，所以护肤就该从洗脸开始咯。正确的洗脸方式应该是选择真正安全、有效的清洁产品，错误的方式和护肤品选择，反而会使精心呵护的肌肤越来越多问题。

每日关爱与呵护您的肌肤，从洗脸做起吧！

完整洁净的四大要素
TIME 时间
每天早晨起床与下班回家后，是两个洗脸的最佳时间。特别是经常化妆的女士们，更需要将带妆的时间降至最低，因此最好一进家门就洗掉脸上的污垢与彩妆。

AMOUNT 次数
不要以为洗脸次数越多越好，其实每天洗脸2-3次就以足够，超过3次就太多了。一般来说，干性肌肤1天2此，油性肌肤1天3次，再加上正确地使用洗面乳，就可维持肌肤的清爽与洁净。

HOW 方法
在用了洗面乳后，需要用大量的清水将洗面乳洗干净，最佳的清洗次数为10次左右。这样，不仅可以让肌肤喝饱水，也能避免清洁产品堵塞毛孔而产生粉刺。

GOODS 工具
除了优质的洗面乳之外，毛巾亦是清洁的重要工具。一定要用自己专用的毛巾；洗脸用的毛巾应和洗澡用的毛巾分开；洗脸用的毛巾，应该用吸水力强、容易风干的那种。

回首。。我们的旅行语录(IV)

2009-09-27T17:57:00.001+08:00

出国第一章：韩国（踏步韩国大学）

要进入韩国的大学，一点也不简单。我说的只是要去参观和作交流，想必真的要进入他们的大学修读，肯定难上加难。我们一共向很多间大学申请参观，但是受理和被批准的，就只有3间而已。首尔有韩国排行第二的연세대학교(Yonsei University)，还有한양대학교(Hanyang University)，而大田(Taejon)有배재대학교(PaiChai University)。

想当年，韩国的教学材料差不多99%都是用韩语编写的，所以他们的英语程度的确非常差。可以讲出一口流利的英语的人，可说是难得难得啊。。。而且呀，都很受器重。

走遍首尔和大田，我们留下了步步脚印。至少，我们把马大的小旗子挂上了他们的纪念品橱窗，这代表着跨国大学之间的MOU(Memorandum of Understanding)，而我们也终于完成了任务。资料搜查也七七八八了，是时候打点一切准备回家在重组然后在conference和大众分享。

从首尔搭火车到大田大概要花2个钟，火车座位是可以360度移动的，第一次出国，很‘三八’叻。。。就在座位上转来转去的，结果突然间发觉有个人站在我的背后哦！！原来呀，票根不一定是对号入座的，只要火车上还有空位，乘客就可以一路站着，一直站到终点。所以我们算幸运啦！

第二天：Hanyang University (Seoul)

在Hanyang University只花了半天的时间，但是交流还算不错啦。

教授很乐意地和我们分享科技知识。

所以我们也全神贯注地“上课”。

男子组。后面也有五棵树哦。

第三天：Yonsei University (Seoul)

韩国排名第二的大学，绝对不简单！最喜欢这栋post-grad building了。春天时时绿色的，夏天时有花的花都开了，秋天时一片红色，冬天就被雪花覆盖，变成全白色的了。

如果你有看《我的野蛮女友》，其中的一幕校园追逐戏就是在这边拍摄的。

这是相机的事或建筑的事啊？？！是我们的幻觉啦。

飞鹰代表着成功。

这是他们的工程系建筑，如果我们的建筑由他们的一半那么齐全就好了。

大学里的餐馆，非常有气氛的装饰啊~ 这是我们在首尔里吃到最好吃的烤肉餐了！很感激教授自掏腰包请我们吃这丰盛的一餐。

这晚只有摄氏2度。。我们依然咬紧牙根从大学走回去。

第五天：Pai Chai University (Taejon)

大田广域市，乍看之下就十足我们的Cyberjaya一样，空荡荡的，人口不怎么多。托世界杯足球赛的福，近两年突然冒起了许多酒店和饭店，至少再也没那么死气沉沉。

火车窗口外的风景。越走越乡下。。。

培才大学。有点像幼儿园的颜色吗？

大田的红蓝色桥 - Expo Bridge。

大田的世界杯足球场。

教授请我们到乡下的韩国传统餐厅享用晚餐。

泡菜。花样很多，味道很棒！

人参鸭！！很补哦。冷天当正餐绝对合心意。

助教Ms.Jung。

再见了，大田。明天起就放生咯~

。。。花絮。。。

大学给我们一人一份的纪念品。

首尔-大田的火车票。每程大概要RM180，很贵吧。

枫叶，6年了!还没腐化。

还有。。。这些都是我在大田市区街上拾回来的，色情场所把这些“名片”一整套的夹在每一辆汽车的玻璃上，风一吹，满街都是！其实都是一套8张的，但是不好意思捡完啦。。

（待续）

Pimples no more - how to get rid of pimples

2009-09-26T10:22:00.000+08:00

Princess Cheryl's thought of the day:- Gastric!!! No appetite but I just had the best meal while I'm still sick.

I just moved all the posts in my beauty blog here. Check them out under the tags Beauty DIYs and Health and Beauty. Most of the contents are about my beauty regime which I hope to share with the girls out there. (^.^)

Do you have pimples problem? I guess many people would answer "YES!!" Sometimes it's unavoidable to get pimples, especially to people like us - all year through in tropical weather, loves spicy food, dusty environment, stressed-out, and too much sebum... Pimples on my cheeks and T-zone are the biggest killers of my appearance. So how did I get rid of them?

This was me 1 year plus ago.

This was me 3 months ago.

If you want to be honest with yourself how healty is your face, go under the natural lightsource (under the sun) or stand under the natural white fluorescent light. You cannot hide anything, even a tiny winy little scar will show up. My photos above were snapped under natural white fluorescent light and natural lightsource.

I do feel sorry for myself to expose my photos with such bad skin condition at first...but if I were to share experience and solution then why not? Seriously, I've been suffering from pimples since teenage years (13 years old), and it never say goodbye. On and off, they visit me, every week, every month. The best record I had for maintaining a pimpless face was only 1 week plus. Sad... Even without pimples, the scar was there, because my skin tone was ivory, too light to hide any scars.

Worse...during uni days. =S

I spent so much $$ trying to kill the pimples, had tried almost every type of pimple gels and acne medication, but they are only effective for a certain period, dry the affected spot, but after a few days, it started popping out again! I visited Watsons/Guardian almost at least once a fortnight, for 4 consecutive years I've changed countless brands of skin care products, due to my very delicate skin....always giving me lots of headaches.

I've tried:
(1) diet control - Totally no spicy food for 2-3 months, no sweet stuff (candies/chocolates/desserts) for months, less heaty food (like peanuts/titbits/chips)...
(2) take supplements - Taking vitamin C and "skin clear" but still doesn't help much..
(3) facial routine - I don't go for facial treatment in facial salon because some of my friends got worse skin problem after trying out!! I read books and do it the natural way, cleansing my face using pure yoghurt, pure honey and so on. It did help to soothe my face whenever I had breakouts.
(4) proper skin care products - I use organic and no-fragrance products to minimize irritation to my skin. But that only helped to control.
(5) blemish gels - You name it!
(6) food/herb - I cooked barley with chinese green bean （绿豆）to detox. Helped a little but must not always drink because it's too 'cold'（凉）for girls. Not that good for health.
(7) face masks and cleansers - Don't ever ever use essense mask if you have blemish skin!!
(8) cleanliness - Very important! Always wash your face after wake up from sleep. And change your pillow case often if you're having combination to oily skin, because oily faces tend to capture dirt more easily and then clog your pores.
(9) professional consultations - Like going to New York Skin Solution? Where to find so much $$$$$?? Not practical to students and fresh grads.
(10)etc...etc...

Sounds pretty familiar, like what you've tried? I guess so... and they didn't really work right? So, here's my final solution -- a magic cream recommended by my friend Jeff. **Thanks for being the savior to us**

This little 5ml bottle of yellow cream is the answer! MIYOME.

I'm not doing advertorial here, but I know how you suffer like I did. I'm a travelholic, and blemish skin is a total nightmare to me whenever I go travel. Who would wanna pack a lot more anti-blemish stuff in her bag and always have to find a mirror to check whether her face is ok before taking photographs? I hate it the most when my pimply face spoilt the whole scenery.

Now that my skin had recovered 100% from pimples (gotta fight freckles though...after coming back from over-exposure to the sunlight after Siem Reap, Marrakech and Bali, luckily London was not that bad..), I'm confident and 'lighter' than ever! 'Lighter' in the sense of burden to take care of my skin whenever and wherever. But of course, I still have some minor scars on my face, hard to find perfect skin nowadays.

Last time I was even worried that sunscreen would worsen my blemish if I apply the sunblock with SPF higher than 20, because it's more oily when the SPF is higher. Now what I gotta do when going outdoor is just practically normal skin care routine -- never leave home without applying sunblock. ^.^

Alright, back to MIYOME, some information if you'd like to know more:
PRODUCT NAME:
- MIYOME Multi Repair Essence. Made by 100% herbal formulation.

INGREDIENTS:
- Lactic Acid
- Glycerin
- Allantoin
- Aloe Vera

EFFECT:
a) Remove Pimples
b) Visible big pores
c) Remove Acnes
d) Remove Blackheads
e) Sweat Stain
f) Whitening effect
g) Balancing oil secretion
h) Remove skin residue (outer layer)
i) Lightening pigmentation
j) Improving skin complexion
k) Maintaining skin moisture.

SUITABLE FOR:
- All Kind of skin problem
- All ages

PRICE:
- RM110 per bottle

If you're interested, I'd be glad to help you understand more. Afterall, this is just a post for sharing purpose, because I believe you deserve to be confident with your look. I used only 2 bottles, and then bye-bye to pimples. Now I spare another bottle for S.O.S in case I have one or two tiny breakouts due to dirty environment during travel.

Now, I only care about one thing when I go travel -- my sunshade!!

Disclaimer: This post is meant for sharing purpose. Please refer to your doctor or dermatologist if allergy or irritation persists.