CW's Food & Travel

Bali 2019 - Dinner at Hujan Locale, Ubud

noreply@blogger.com (Borneoboy) — Sun, 12 Feb 2023 07:17:00 +0000

Besides Chris Salans, there are several other expat chefs in Bali who are just as famous. One of them is Will Meyrick, who founded fine-dining restaurant Sarong and the more casual Mama San in Seminyak. Hujan Locale, his latest venture in the heart of Ubud, is a casual eatery serving warung -inspired Indonesian food, albeit taken up a few notches in terms of execution and presentation. The menu features traditional home-cooked dishes from across the Indonesian archipelago. Expect dishes like rendang, sop buntut (oxtail soup), satay etc. but made with more unusual ingredients.

The restaurant is housed inside a 2 storey vintage building. Ground floor is set up more like a longe. Upstairs is the main dining space, which has a high pitched ceiling. Overall it has a South-East Asian Colonial vibe.

A lot of diners raved about their complimentary snack – rempyek kacang – which is rice flour crackers with peanuts flavoured with lots of spices. They are served with a sambal hijau – green chili jam. It is great!

I ordered an appetizer and a main. The appetizer was Ayam Taliwang – chicken wings stuffed with minced prawns and served with cassava chips. The wings were covered in a spicy chili paste which packed a punch. It was juicy and very tasty.

The main was Siobak Singaraja – based on the Indonesian-Chinese version of crispy. The skin was very crispy, and the pork belly was melt-in-the-mouth. They even served with with some “krupuk babi” – pork scratchings. Definitely a winning dish for pork lovers.

The dishes at Hujan Locale are Indonesian classics executed with great skill and creativity. The flavours are punchy and presentations very well done. It is another must-visit in Ubud.

Bali 2019 - Kecak Dance at Pura Dalem Ubud

noreply@blogger.com (Borneoboy) — Sun, 12 Feb 2023 07:12:00 +0000

Kecak Dance is a dance performance based on a trance ritual that was created by German painter and musician Walter Spies in the 1930s. The dance drama was based on Hindu Ramayana legend – and was meant to be performed for a mainly Western tourist audience. Today you can find Kecak Dance performed everywhere in Bali – with the most popular one probably at Uluwatu. As I was in Ubud – I decided to go to the performance at Pura Dalem Temple. The dance was performed in the open stage inside the temple complex.

This is a performance that you really have to get yourself in the mood to enjoy. It can be quite repetitive – with the same chants and movements repeated seemingly ad nauseum – interspersed with some costumed performers. However if you allow yourself to get with the flow – you will enjoy it much more – as the repetitive chants can get you into a trance state in sync with the performers.

Bali 2019 - Sari Organic Trail

noreply@blogger.com (Borneoboy) — Sun, 12 Feb 2023 07:04:00 +0000

Besides Campuhan Ridge, there are a couple of other trails around Ubud that are great for those who like to hike. One goes to Penestanan Village, and the other goes to Sari Organic. I did not have the time to do both, so went with the Sari Organic Trail.

Unlike Campuhan Ridge which is hilly, this trail is mostly flat. Along the way you pass through some local villages, rice fields, and there are lots of homestays in the area. It is not as scenic as Campuhan Ridge, but if you like to walk this is a great outing for a couple of hours.

Bali 2019 - Dinner at Spice by Chris Salans in Ubud

noreply@blogger.com (Borneoboy) — Sun, 12 Feb 2023 06:52:00 +0000

Since opening Mozaic Restaurant in Ubud in 2001, French-American chef Chris Salans has been winning accolades with his innovative high-end cuisine. I have not been to Mozaic as the pricing there is quite steep, but was very happy to learn that Salans has opened another restaurant on Jalan Raya Ubud with pricing that is more down to earth – Spice, I had to try it out. This is a casual-dining restaurant with more emphasis on the food – which is great.

They have an a la carte menu, but I went for the 4-course signature menu which was reasonably priced at 275,000 IDR – around RM80, quite a steal for a gourmet experience.

The first appetizer was a Beef Carpaccio in Rendang Spiced Oil. The beef was very tender, and the spiced oil was very subtle. It was a delicious combination.

The second appetizer looked a lot more interesting – Balinese Chicken Betutu Cromesquis. These are croquettes stuffed with tender pieces of Balinese smoked chicken. The spices were fragrant without being overwhelming. The accompanying pickled onions and chili provided the acidic heat to bslsnce the richness. Another tasty dish.

There are 2 choices for main course – slipper lobster or beef. I went with the Beef Sirloin with Mixed Salad in Black Kluwek-Garlic Sauce. Black Kluwek or “Buah Keluak” as it is known in Malaysia, is a tree seed with a black paste inside that is used in Indonesian and Malaysian cuisine, especially Peranakan cuisine. The paste is poisonous – but after proper treatment and fermentation, it becomes edible and has a very unique flavour profile – nutty and pungent. It is great that Chef Chris has paired this unique ingredient with grilled beef – which was very tender. It was a winning combination.

Dessert was a Crème Brulee with Strawberries and Torch Ginger Flower Ice Cream. Another example of Chef Chris’ deftness in pairing local with more mainstream ingredients – the strawberries and torch ginger combination was genius.

For the price, this was a top-notch dining experience. It will easily cost double or more in Kuala Lumpur. A must-visit when in Ubud.

Bali 2019 - Legong Dance at Ubud Place

noreply@blogger.com (Borneoboy) — Tue, 22 Feb 2022 10:56:00 +0000

One of the most convenient locations to watch a traditional Balinese dance performance is the Ubud Place. They host a dance performance every day at around 7.30p.m. The dances vary from day to day – here is a schedule that may or may not be still valid:

Day Type of Performance

Sunday Legong of Mahabharata

Monday Legong Dance

Tuesday Bina Remaja Ramayana Ballet

Wednesday Legong & Barong Dance

Thursday Legong Trance Paradise

Friday Barong Dance Ubud

Saturday Legong Dance

The cost is IDR100,000 per person – around USD7, still very affordable after all these years. Get there early – ideally 30min before the show to get the best seats. For such a small sum – you get to enjoy a 1 ½ hour performance by a large cast of dancers and musicians.

The dances are divided into different segments representing different styles. The quality does vary from segment to segment. The best and most enjoyable are the Legong Dances performed by a group of very skillful female dancers. Their movements were so precise and graceful.

Bali 2019 - Campuhan Ridge

noreply@blogger.com (Borneoboy) — Tue, 22 Feb 2022 10:37:00 +0000

After a few days in Seminyak, I moved on to Ubud - my other favorite hangout in Bali. I’ve been to Ubud a few times but somehow always missed out on the Campuhan Ridge. This trip I made it a point to check it out. The start of the trail is next to Warwick Ibah Villa and Spa. The signs are not very clear so it is best to ask for directions.

It is quite a gentle walk to the top of the ridge. Once you get there – you are rewarded with a panoramic view of the valleys around Ubud. There are several small cafes along the way for short breaks.

The walk is paved in concrete blocks all the way and though it goes up and down a bit – the slopes are very gentle. The scenes along the way are beautiful - you get to see the natural side of Ubud. There are some rice fields along the way, and towards the end of the trial there are some small villages to explore. You also get to see many resorts from the valley side – which is usually not accessible.

The trail is around 1.3km one way, so a return trip is around 2.6km. It is best to go early morning or late afternoon to avoid the hot sun, as there is not much shade on the ridge.

Towards the other end of the trail, I found a beautiful open cafe set among the rice fields. It was such a calm and beautiful pit stop to recharge with an iced coffee before heading back.

Bali 2019 - Lunch at Jackson Lily's

noreply@blogger.com (Borneoboy) — Tue, 22 Feb 2022 10:19:00 +0000

Having enjoyed the dinner at Ginger Moon – I was quite keen to try out their sister restaurant Jackson Lily’s which is located on Jalan Raya Seminyak. Like Ginger Moon – the menu at Jakson Lily’s is Modern Asian – with an emphasis on small bites to go with drinks and cocktails.

The design of Jackson Lily’s has a Steam Punk vide to it, with the use of exposed steel structures and industrial details. Colourful chairs provide visual pop to the setting.

I was feeling quite warm after walking around in the area, and was tempted by their mocktails. Ordered a “Passion Coco” – a delicious mix of lime, passionfruit and coconut water. It was a knock-out punch.

As I was not that hungry having had a big breakfast at the hotel, I decided to order some Dim Sums. I would consider these Westernized Dim Sums - the flavours were good, but the texture and consistency of the skins could not compare to those made by Hong Kong Dim Sum masters. It was an enjoyable experience nonetheless.

Bali 2019 - Nyaman Gallery

noreply@blogger.com (Borneoboy) — Tue, 22 Feb 2022 10:11:00 +0000

For a bit of art therapy, head over to Nyaman Gallery on Jalan Raya Seminyak. This is a contemporary art gallery representing not only Balinese but also international artists. The works are always top notch and very interesting, and there is a wide range from paintings to photography and sculptures.

There are several main gallery spaces showing large format works, as well as more intimate studios showcasing works of featured artists. Whether you are in the market for artworks or not – Nyaman Gallery is definitely worth a visit. In fact I would put it on the top of must-visits in Seminyak.

At the back there are several small studios featuring individual artists' works.

Bali 2019 - Starbucks Reserve Dewata

noreply@blogger.com (Borneoboy) — Tue, 22 Feb 2022 10:03:00 +0000

I was very excited to check out Starbucks Reserve Dewata located along Sunset Road. Opened in January 2019, this is the biggest Starbucks store in Southeast Asia – and also the first Starbucks Reserve in the region. The exterior of the store already created a strong statement – with a beautiful breil soleil made out of Balinese red bricks. The bricks are arranged to create the illusion of waves which refer to the many beaches of Bali.

Inside the interior is no less impressive. It has a high-end feel, with many decorative elements based on Indonesian arts and craft.

The store is divided into different sections. There is a café/ bakery at the front, with lots of delectable baked goods and cakes – much better looking than those at other Starbucks I’ve been.

A more serious coffee bar is located at the back. A huge bamboo sculpture hang over the coffee bar.

The upper floor provides more seating space. One of the most striking features is the huge weaved bamboo sculpture hanging over the coffee bar.

Bali 2019 - Dinner at Ginger Moon

noreply@blogger.com (Borneoboy) — Tue, 22 Feb 2022 09:53:00 +0000

There are so many restaurants and cafes in Seminyak it can be difficult to make up your mind. I always make it a point to try those that t I have not been before, and based on my research Ginger Moon was on my list this time. It’s a restaurant that has been around for quite a while. The concept is modern Asian cuisine, with dishes meant for sharing.

Situated along Jalan Kayu Aya – the main road in Seminyak, the décor of Ginger Moon is quite charming. It makes great use of Asian colours and motifs, with a bit of Art Deco twist. It definitely is not bland.

I looked at the menu and was tempted by many of the offerings. In the end – the combination of Grilled Pork Ribs and Nasi Goreng won me over. I also ordered some Achar as a side dish, but was surprised that the main dish I ordered already had this as one of the sides. I was frankly a bit annoyed that I could have ordered a different side dish had I known – but my annoyance was quickly allayed by sight of the gorgeous ribs.

The ribs were great – fork tender and so flavourful from the Asian BBQ sauce, it was delicious. Those copious amounts of Achar did help to cut the fattiness of the pork, and the freshness and crunchiness were very enjoyable in between bites of the pork.

Ginger Moon is a charming restaurant with great food. Definitely worth a try when you are in Seminyak.

Bali 2019 - Potato Head Beach Club

noreply@blogger.com (Borneoboy) — Tue, 22 Feb 2022 09:43:00 +0000

I first visited Potato Head Beach Club in 2014. The club just opened in 2011, and has since become a sensation that has spread to other parts of the world. It is not difficult to understand its success. The location is perfect – right along popular Petitenget Beach, and it is even right next to the W Hotel, you can’t find a cooler neighbour than that. The design is modern and elegant, and there is just that right mix of cool and casual vibe that is irresistible to the beach and party crowd. The striking recycled shutter wall is still eye-catching as ever, and the generally modernist design language has matured well.

Fast forward 5 years later – the club is just as popular judging from the crowd. Most were enjoying the gentle evening sun and lounging on daybeds – waiting for the sunset. What's there not to like - except for the steep prices?

Bali 2019 - Katamama Hotel

noreply@blogger.com (Borneoboy) — Tue, 22 Feb 2022 09:37:00 +0000

The Potato Head Group has been making waves in South-East Asia since they opened their Potato Head Beach Club in Seminyak. In 2016 they opened the much anticipated Katamama Hotel just behind the Beach Club. It was designed by renowned Indonesian architect Andra Martin, the concept is quite cutting-edge and brutalist, and yet surprisingly traditional at the same time. The walls of the hotel are built-up from 1.4 million pieces of handmade red bricks – similar to the ones used in the temples. The colour is rich and striking.

Like many lifestyle hotels nowadays, Katama has no reception counter. Instead, guests are welcomed by a cocktail bar. The interior is decorated with antiques and vintage furniture, giving it a somewhat retro vibe.

Bali 2019 - Petitenget Beach

noreply@blogger.com (Borneoboy) — Tue, 22 Feb 2022 09:01:00 +0000

There are several beaches in Seminyak and the main beach here is Petitenget. I don’t really know where it begins and ends – but I assume its generally around the Masceti Temple. You will find a wooden archway on the beach with the name on it. This is where a lot of people come to enjoy the sunset, and the sunset was beautiful this evening.

Bali 2019 - Kim Soo Lifestyle Store

noreply@blogger.com (Borneoboy) — Tue, 22 Feb 2022 08:54:00 +0000

If you've been to Bali a few times, you will always feel the Bali Itch if you haven't been there for some time. Having last visited in 2014, a revisit was long overdue. Luckily a gap in my schedule came up and I quickly booked my flights for a short break. I decided to stay in Seminyak, my favorite hangout in Bali for a few days. I love to explore the many interesting shops, cafes and eateries in the area.

Located right on Jalan Kayu Aya – the main stretch in Seminyak, Kim Soo is a very popular lifestyle store popular with tourists and locals alike. They showcase an interesting range of homewares and decorations from across the Indonesian Archipelago, with lots of items exclusive to their brand. The style of the building is more Mediterranean than Balinese, with whitewashed walls, elegant arches, and raw wood ceiling. You could be on an island in Greece.

Their café serves casual snacks and cakes. There is a salad bar where you can pick and choose a selection of small bites. I wasn't feeling that hungry and was happy with a small plate of salads and a chocolate cheesecake.

Beijing 2018 - Nan Luo Gu Xiang

noreply@blogger.com (Borneoboy) — Wed, 02 Jun 2021 07:30:00 +0000

I take back what I said about The Forbidden City. This takes the crown for being the most crowded place in Beijing!

Nan Luo Gu Xiang is one of the hottest attractions in Bejing right now. It is also one of the oldest Hutongs in the city, having existed for over 800 years since the Yuan Dynasty. When we went there just after lunch, it was chock-a-block with people. This used to be a traditional street, but most of the houses here have been converted into commercial outlets – shops, cafes, restaurants, etc. The street is around 800m long. Most people seem to come here just to walk around and people-watch. There are supposedly a number of very authentic Shiheyuans along the street, but it is very difficult to look past the gaudy commercial displays.

It is not hard to see the attraction. The crowd is definitely part of the main draw, providing plenty of people-watching entertainment. It is kind of like a theme park for lovers of shopping and cafe hopping.

There are some shops worth checking out - like this stationary shop with lots of cards, notebooks, and beautiful craft paper.

Also this postcard shops with a huge selection.

This is my last post from my 2018 Beijing trip. Beijing is a fascinating city and it was a very enjoyable holiday that was a bit too short. We will be back.

Beijing 2018 - Mr Shi's Dumplings

noreply@blogger.com (Borneoboy) — Sun, 30 May 2021 07:31:00 +0000

There are certainly no lack of eateries in the Hutong, but how do you separate the wheat from the chaff as a visitor without a local to lead the way? Well, that is where review sites come in helpful. Mr Shi’s Dumplings come highly recommended on many sites – and has 4 stars on TripAdvisor. I know TripAdvisor is not exactly the best arbiter when it comes to the best restaurants, but I’ve had good experiences with many of TripAdvisor’s recommendations before, and the reviews of this place were consistently good.

The eatery is located in the Baochao Hutong and not difficult to find. In fact, it is very near our hotel. The eatery is quite small, with only a few tables. They have a Chinese and English menu, which is probably one of the reasons why they are so popular with foreigners.

We ordered some steamed dumplings, some fried dumplings, and also a bowl of beef noodles. The dumplings were good, but not outstanding. Pricing was also on the high side.

The beef noodles were more enjoyable – the noodles had good texture and the broth was quite flavourful.

Overall Mr Shi’s Dumplings didn’t really live up to the hype, but it was good enough for a simple meal. I have read from some sites that they have a 2 tier pricing system – the English-Chinese Menu had higher prices than the Chinese-Only Menu. I had a feeling we were charged the higher rates – so if you can read Chinese definitely ask for the Chinese Menu.

Beijing 2018 - Around the Confucius Temple

noreply@blogger.com (Borneoboy) — Sun, 30 May 2021 07:25:00 +0000

The area around Confucius Temple has become a trendy lifestyle hub in Beijing. Along Guozijian Street which fronts the temple, there are many trendy bookshops, fashion boutiques, furniture and lifestyle shops. These are some of my interesting finds there.

Lost & Found is a very trendy fashion and furniture shop with many well-curated pieces.

Opposite Lost & Found is another furniture shop. Everything in this shop is beautifully designed and made.

Parallel to Guizijiang Street behind the Temple is the Wudaoying Hutong, a very hip district full of pubs, cafes and shops. Here the commercial mix is more International – there are quite a number of Western-themed bars, vegetarian restaurants and even a Greek restaurant.

These monks seem to be having a relaxing time on the street.

Beijing 2018 - Lunch at TRB Forbidden City

noreply@blogger.com (Borneoboy) — Wed, 19 May 2021 07:07:00 +0000

We had made a booking at TRB Hutong for lunch, but a few days before the lunch they emailed that they had to change our booking to their sister restaurant – TRB Forbidden City. We were assured that the menu is exactly the same. We had to cut short our visit to The Forbidden City due to this lunch appointment, so the food better be good. We hastily made our retreat from The Forbidden City through the East Gate. The restaurant is located just outside the East Gate on Donghuamen Street.

The interior of the restaurant is very modern and elegant. We were seated next to the windows – looking right onto The Forbidden City. Very nice arrangement.

Lunch started with Amuse Bouche – which was not one dish but a selection of several small bites – marshmallow with parmesan flakes, anchovy mousse, fresh tomato jelly. What an impressive start!

Then they served the bread – it was an impressive selection of soft buns, Foccacia and olive bread. They were all so good

The first course was a Pumpkin Soup - beautifully presented.

Unfortunately, I could not remember all the main courses - but they were all expertly executed and beautifully presented. This was an Egg Plant Ravioli I think.

Yellow Tail with Pomelo and Orange.

Lobster Ravioli.

Duck Breast with Crispy Skin and White Radish.

Desserts – Hazelnut Mascarpone with Grapefruit Sorbet.

Chocolate Mousse with Mango Ice Cream.

Lunch at TRB Hutong was an outstanding dining experience. The service was impeccable – best in Beijing, and the food was sublime and so beautifully presented. This is one experience not to be missed and could be the highlight for you to revisit the city.

Beijing 2018 - Forbidden City Revisited

noreply@blogger.com (Borneoboy) — Wed, 19 May 2021 06:21:00 +0000

Can one visit Beijing without visiting the Forbidden City? Difficult question. While it is no doubt the most important sight in Beijing, it is also the most crowded. Whether or not it is worth the visit depends on how well you handle crowds.

We planned to take a cab to The Forbidden City early to beat the crowds. Unfortunately, after a few minutes of driving the cab driver suddenly told us there was some kind of event going on near The Forbidden City, and he would not be able to get us there due to roadblocks. I think he was trying to scam us, but I pretended to speak Chinese poorly so he was not getting anywhere. He then dropped us at the nearest MRT station and asked us to use the MRT instead. So much for our plan to get there early.

The MRT ride was not an easy one. We had to change lines several times, and the trip took much longer than expected. By the time we got to the gate, there was already a sizable crowd. To make it worse - there didn't seem to be any events going on like the taxi driver had claimed. Looked like he just didn't want to take us where we wanted to go.

We had an appointment for lunch, so unfortunately we were only able to get to the Hall of Supreme Harmony before having to call it a day. We left via the East Gate - Donghuamen, which is surprisingly understated compared to the main gate. This visit felt a bit rush due to the time wasted with the taxi driver, and it was definitely not a good start for the day.

Beijing 2018 - Lama Temple

noreply@blogger.com (Borneoboy) — Mon, 17 May 2021 07:13:00 +0000

One of the most interesting historical buildings in the Hutong is the Lama Temple, located at the northeast side of the Hutong. This was built in 1694 during the Qing Dynasty and was the residence of Emperor Yongzheng when he was just a prince. Yongzheng was the 3^rd Manchu Ruler under the Qing Dynasty, and was generally considered a capable but cruel leader. In 1744 the imperial residence was formally changed to that of a lamasery.

The temple complex is quite big and consists of a large number of buildings. From the main entrance archway, a large avenue leads to the Zhaotai Gate.

The main hall is the Hall of Harmony and Peace. Inside three large bronze Buddhas are displayed.

The Falundian or Hall of the Wheel of the Law is where the Lamas read the scriptures and conduct Buddhist ceremonies.

Beijing 2018 - Peking Duck at Duck De Chine

noreply@blogger.com (Borneoboy) — Mon, 17 May 2021 06:54:00 +0000

My last visit to Beijing we tried the Peking Duck at Quanjude. Many people said it is very commercialized but I found it a satisfying and enjoyable experience. This trip I wanted to try a different restaurant. I shortlisted down to three – Da Dong, Siji Minfu and Duck de Chine. In the end Duck de Chine won out because of the many great reviews and the interesting location.

Duck de Chine is located within 1949 – The Hidden City. This is a former factory complex with mostly red brick buildings, converted into a dining and nightlife venue. Like many such projects in China - the overall development is very well done and I wish we could have more of such venues back in Malaysia.

The interior of Duck De Chine is certainly impressive - befitting a high-end restaurant. The dining area is not very big, the tables are all laid next to the windows with views into the gardens.

We ordered a whole Peking Duck, and a side dish of Braised Beancurd Skin, thinking that it would be plenty for 2 persons. The duck was served on a carving trolley, and expertly carved by the chef. 2 plates of duck breasts with the beautiful roasted skin were presented on the table, then the chef disappeared with the duck. We proceeded to enjoy it with the pancake wrap and condiments. It was indeed a very good Peking Duck. The meat was tender, juicy and infused with the fragrance of jujube wood which is used for the roasting. The skin was very crispy and delicious.

The Braised Beancurd Skin was well executed and tasty.

We finished the duck breast pretty quickly, then waited for the rest of the duck to be served. After quite a long wait, we felt something was not right. We then asked the waiter – what happened to the rest of the courses. He said that was it – 2 breasts, that was how they rock it at Duck de Chine. I asked what happened to the rest of the duck? At Quanjude, we were served the duck meat shredded and stir-fried with vegetables, a soup made with the duck bones, and for a little extra they even deep-fried the duck carcass with salt and pepper – which was the highlight of the Quanjude experience.

After a bit of prodding, they finally came back with the rest of the duck chopped up and served to us with a bit of reluctance. There was so much meat left – especially on the drumsticks and the thigh. We were more than satisfied after that.

The whole Peking Duck here is RMB288, or around RM180. To get just two portions of the breast meat and skin is ridiculous. The condiments are RMB10 extra. Why? The duck is no doubt very good and easily one of the best in Beijing, but I feel that they try to nickel-and-dime the customers, which left a sour taste in the mouth. As good as the duck was, I don't think I will go back.

Beijing 2018 - Sanlitun Soho

noreply@blogger.com (Borneoboy) — Mon, 17 May 2021 06:20:00 +0000

Across the road from Sanlitun Taikoo Li is another huge urban development – Sanlitun Soho. The development was planned and designed by Japanese architect Kengo Kuma. Unlike Tai Koo Li which is mainly commercial, here it is mixed-use with office and residential towers sitting on top of a commercial podium.

The project consists of 5 office towers and 4 residential towers – all curvilinear in shape. They are organized around a central landscape spine. The towers have mostly the same façade design with vertical strips of glass and aluminium cladding. Most are blue and grey except one tower in the middle that stands out in red.

On the whole, this project did not excite me as much compared to Kengo Kuma’s other works. Many of the forms and design choices feel a bit generic. I guess it is difficult to be excited by what is essentially an office and apartments development.

Beijing 2018 - Sanlitun Tai Koo Li Revisited

noreply@blogger.com (Borneoboy) — Sun, 16 May 2021 05:15:00 +0000

Sanlitun Tai Koo Li is a premium shopping precinct in the Chaoyang District of Beijing. It draws its crowd not only from the nearby embassies and ex-pat quarters but also those looking for a chic and cosmopolitan refuge in Beijing. There are many shops, restaurants, bars, and entertainment outlets to suit all palettes, and you can even find the largest Adidas store in the world here.

I first visited this retail wonder in 2009 during my first visit to Beijing - the year after its open, and was really impressed. Fast forward around 10 years later, the original Taikoo Li hasn’t changed much and hasn't lost its luster, however, there is a huge extension towards the back. The design in the new area is not as interesting, but the huge public spaces are impressive for a land-scarce city like Beijing.

Beijing 2018 - Galaxy Soho by Zaha Hadid Architects

noreply@blogger.com (Borneoboy) — Sun, 16 May 2021 05:01:00 +0000

Besides the historical landmarks, Beijing also has its ultra-modern side. Many renown international architects have left their mark in this historical city. One of these is Galaxy Soho. Completed in 2014, this is one of Zaha Hadid’s many mega-projects in China. The development consists of 4 main buildings – 18-storey towers that are curvilinear in shape. According to Zaha the design is a “reinventing of the classical Chinese courtyard which generates and immersive, enveloping experience at the heart of Beijing”. I really struggled to see the connection.

While the earlier designs of Zaha never fail to impress with her confidence and virtuosity in form-making, her later projects seem to be cut mostly from the same cloth. This project is no different – you can see the catalogue of parts from a mile away.

Beijing 2018 - Vue Hotel at Houhai Park

noreply@blogger.com (Borneoboy) — Sun, 16 May 2021 02:01:00 +0000

Nestled in the Houhai area is a very unique hospitality gem – Vue Hotel. This hotel comprise of a series of old buildings from the 1950s, which have been transformed into modern upscale boutique accommodations. The buildings have been given a dark grey painted exterior – with gold accents on some of the roof ridges and eaves. The effect is somewhat Japanese more then Chinese. This makeover was designed by Ministry of Design from Singapore.

On-the-whole the design may look austere and minimal, but here and there quirky motifs and decorations punctuate the overall visual presentation which is never short of interesting.

At the main entrance of the hotel is a Café – aptly called Fab Café as the design is quite fabulous. Here you can enjoy good coffee and some nice cakes.