Today is pretty relaxed day. Woke up late (now, that's HOLIDAY), slowly eat breakfast, and then don't know where to go. hehehe
So in the end, decided to go to Cholan (HCMC's Chinatown). Took a cab down there, having a little hard time to tell the driver where to go to.
We stopped at Ming Dynasty Assembly Hall. Nearly missed it, as it doesn't have any sign that shows that it is the place. Only managed to confirmed it by the address it has. Anyway, the person inside there, somehow, closed the gate when we were wondering outside whether to go in to take a look or not.
So we are forced to moved on. So off we go, taking walk in slight drizzle towards An Dong Market.
Reached there probably about 1/2 hr or so later. It's slightly more ventilated than Ben Thanh Market. Concept wise is similar. We didn't buy anything, except coffee powder. The Kohs bought a little more than us, some soursoup sweets. :P
Wandering a little more around the area, at the An Dong Plaza, just beside the market.
Then we decided to take a cab to Quan An Ngon for lunch. This place was very commonly recommended in the internet, books etc. However, we think the cab has altered the meter, costs us 70,000VND for the trip. Kinda expensive compared to the 40,000VND for us to go to Chinatown.
We all agreed that the lunch was fantastic, and cheap! The snail with stuffed minced pork is yummy!
Try it if you are there!
With a fully tummy, took a stroll towards the Notre Dome Cathedral. Not really spectacular place. Just took a few pictures, click click here click click there and tell the place tata.
Then we just headed to the City Hall nearby, took another few pictures with the Uncle Ho statue, and decided to head back to hotel for a short rest.
Cab was cheap this time, didn't even had a chance to jump at all. Flat at 14,000VND.
Idling in hotel, ate the peanuts away. and wait till evening time.
Called up the Kohs at 7+ for dinner. We searched the web for some place to go, and we chose this place Bo Tung Xeo.
Walked there. Mistake. Quite far. hahaha
As we were walking along the stretch of road, out of nowhere, a motorcyclist stopped somewhere 30meters in front, and went near the wall, and pee. :O
There was mentioned somewhere that the Viet men have a tendency to pee in public area.
Oh well. We tried to ignore, and continued our way to the dinner place.
Then from some distance, we saw a woman squatting near a lamp post facing the road.
As we go nearer, we can see clearly that the backside was exposed.
YES. She was squatting there peeing with her pants down!
As we got closer, she quickly stood up and pull up her pants and walked off.
Oh my goodness! Female also like to display public show of passing water!
And at a pillar too! *woof woof*
The place was not how we expected it to be. It is a little similar to some of our big restaurants in Singapore, without aircon, and probably noisy also. :P
Anyway, we just go ahead with what we had chosen, and at least take the recommended food of barberque beef.
Derrick wanted to try exotic food. He chose crickets/dove/pigeon blah blah blah. In the end, he chose crocodile meat, fried version. Not so bad, I had eaten iguana before, so another reptile like crocodile should be fine with me. Karinna was ok with it too. Serene wasn't though. hehe
So in the end, we had the beef, crocodile, vegetable and a plate of fried rice.
Not a lot, but I wasn't too hungry too. Had lots of peanuts you know.
After dinner, all lazy to walk liow. So just took a cab back to hotel.
Before heading into hotel, went towards some concert that is probably celebrating May Day. This week is a big holiday for Vietnam apparently. Streets are filled with people tonight, and we thought there would probably be some fireworks later in the night.
We won't see that, coz we'd be sleeping. Holiday ok!
Monday, April 30, 2007
Sunday, April 29, 2007
HCMC Day2
Wakeup call is at 0625. Need to be at the lobby by 8am.
The breakfast at the hotel was simple. Either pho, or porridge or eggs/omelette. Karinna had pho, and I took the porridge. Pretty decent.
So the tour agency came to take us at 8am. We were brought to their office to change to another transport to Cu Chi & Cao Dai.
After boarding the bus, not sure why the driver was driving around the same area for 3-4 rounds before heading the road outwards from the city centre.
First, we were going to Cao Dai. This is a temple, which has a very special religion. It's like combining Buddhism, Taoism blahblahblah, and the costumes they wear, looks like Muslim kind of religious clothings. It worships the 'Left Eye'. Can't remember much of what the tour guide said, but that's the big gist of it. :D
It's a very long journey there, took us about 3 hrs, and the roads there were quite bumpy. Backside pain pain!
After Cao Dai, we made our way to a lunch point. And then, travel another 1 hr+ or 2 to Cu Chi area.
Cu Chi is weird. The ticket to go in is 70,000VND. However, the ticket is broken down into 15,000VND and 55,000VND. This is done so that they can avoid paying tax, which is payable if amount is 65,000VND. Very weird huh?
Then it's time to walk at the Cu Chi area, saw the small tunnel entrance. Goodness, we'll be stucked there for life if we every try going in at all.
Lots of booby traps stuff as well, still very amazed bu the ingenious tunnel size.
At the end of the introductory walk, there's a fire range area where you can pay $$$ to buy bullets to try shooting. I was in the army before, so I don't have the kind of enthusiam to try shooting. Karinna also didn't try, maybe scared. Cheap thrill? Have! Just go to the range area and look see look see and take pic pic.
Finally, it's time to walk the tunnel. Enlarged tunnel of course. Crazy meh?!?
So we walked down slowly the steps, entering the darkened tunnel. Very dark of course. There are some dim lights along the tunnel, still, it's not bright lah.
Then my wife, erh, .... takut sidikit, walked akwardly along the tunnel, and quickly turned out at the first exit. But hey, it's really tiring ok! Thighs feel pretty week just after that short walk. Climb up/down stairs also got problem. hahaha
Then that's the end of the 1-day trip. Back to hotel and rest before heading out for dinner.
Dinner was simple at one of nearby restaurant. Funny thing is, it seems like all the eateries are using the same cook from the same kitchen. So we saw our waiters/waitress go over to other shop and bring our food back! Interesting!
The breakfast at the hotel was simple. Either pho, or porridge or eggs/omelette. Karinna had pho, and I took the porridge. Pretty decent.
So the tour agency came to take us at 8am. We were brought to their office to change to another transport to Cu Chi & Cao Dai.
After boarding the bus, not sure why the driver was driving around the same area for 3-4 rounds before heading the road outwards from the city centre.
First, we were going to Cao Dai. This is a temple, which has a very special religion. It's like combining Buddhism, Taoism blahblahblah, and the costumes they wear, looks like Muslim kind of religious clothings. It worships the 'Left Eye'. Can't remember much of what the tour guide said, but that's the big gist of it. :D
It's a very long journey there, took us about 3 hrs, and the roads there were quite bumpy. Backside pain pain!
After Cao Dai, we made our way to a lunch point. And then, travel another 1 hr+ or 2 to Cu Chi area.
Cu Chi is weird. The ticket to go in is 70,000VND. However, the ticket is broken down into 15,000VND and 55,000VND. This is done so that they can avoid paying tax, which is payable if amount is 65,000VND. Very weird huh?
Then it's time to walk at the Cu Chi area, saw the small tunnel entrance. Goodness, we'll be stucked there for life if we every try going in at all.
Lots of booby traps stuff as well, still very amazed bu the ingenious tunnel size.
At the end of the introductory walk, there's a fire range area where you can pay $$$ to buy bullets to try shooting. I was in the army before, so I don't have the kind of enthusiam to try shooting. Karinna also didn't try, maybe scared. Cheap thrill? Have! Just go to the range area and look see look see and take pic pic.
Finally, it's time to walk the tunnel. Enlarged tunnel of course. Crazy meh?!?
So we walked down slowly the steps, entering the darkened tunnel. Very dark of course. There are some dim lights along the tunnel, still, it's not bright lah.
Then my wife, erh, .... takut sidikit, walked akwardly along the tunnel, and quickly turned out at the first exit. But hey, it's really tiring ok! Thighs feel pretty week just after that short walk. Climb up/down stairs also got problem. hahaha
Then that's the end of the 1-day trip. Back to hotel and rest before heading out for dinner.
Dinner was simple at one of nearby restaurant. Funny thing is, it seems like all the eateries are using the same cook from the same kitchen. So we saw our waiters/waitress go over to other shop and bring our food back! Interesting!
HCMC Day1
Yesterday morning, we left home around 0720hrs. Took a bus to the airport (Yes! Long time never take bus). Drag our luggage to the busstop, but not so bad, not that far away.
Met up with Serene and Derrick at 0800hrs. Did the usual check-in, and off we go, ready for the flight to HCMC.
Uneventful flight to HCMC, the custom side too slightly long time to clear, and further more, the custom officer (a lady) was very slow, and never smile. Hmmmm. Make you worried that if anything doesn't seem correct, she might just force you to a room for interrogation. :P
Took a cab to Elios Hotel. This is a new hotel, and took me some time to be able to book it. Initially, it was known as Elifo to me. heheheh
Anyway, as long as able to find it, it's ok.
Cab fare cost USD6, pretty cheap. We took a larger cab. Gave a USD1 tip to the driver, very generous.
After a short rest in hotel, off we go to Benh Thanh Market, which is about 5 mins walk from our hotel. The weather was hot, so by the time reach there, we were like damn thirsty. Of course, it's time for lunch anyway.
First meal in HCMC, Pho2000 shop opposite Benh Thanh. Bill Clinton ate there before too!
Benh Thanh Market is, hmmm expected, cramp. Not my kind of place to walk around, but acceptable. Didn't really buy anything there.
Spent about an hour plus there, and decided to go back hotel to rest.
Slight drizzle came along, and we hide ourselves at this New World Hotel on our way back.
So the ladies started looking around at the bag boutique shop, and in the end, only Serene bought something back from there. Karinna just bought 2 new bags less than 1 month ago!
Remember? The trip to Japan!?!?!?
So idle till night time, then go take dinner. Walk ourselves to this Zen Plaza, went to the food court there. Interesting, got people come serve you to help you order. You can order the food yourselves too. So it's pretty weird, makes us wonder whether how should we order the food. ehehehe. As long as can fill the tummy, doesn't matter.
Then it's shopping time at supermarket. Bought water, very important!
Back at hotel, book the trip for Cu Chi Tunnel & Cao Dai Temple. One full day trip!
Met up with Serene and Derrick at 0800hrs. Did the usual check-in, and off we go, ready for the flight to HCMC.
Uneventful flight to HCMC, the custom side too slightly long time to clear, and further more, the custom officer (a lady) was very slow, and never smile. Hmmmm. Make you worried that if anything doesn't seem correct, she might just force you to a room for interrogation. :P
Took a cab to Elios Hotel. This is a new hotel, and took me some time to be able to book it. Initially, it was known as Elifo to me. heheheh
Anyway, as long as able to find it, it's ok.
Cab fare cost USD6, pretty cheap. We took a larger cab. Gave a USD1 tip to the driver, very generous.
After a short rest in hotel, off we go to Benh Thanh Market, which is about 5 mins walk from our hotel. The weather was hot, so by the time reach there, we were like damn thirsty. Of course, it's time for lunch anyway.
First meal in HCMC, Pho2000 shop opposite Benh Thanh. Bill Clinton ate there before too!
Benh Thanh Market is, hmmm expected, cramp. Not my kind of place to walk around, but acceptable. Didn't really buy anything there.
Spent about an hour plus there, and decided to go back hotel to rest.
Slight drizzle came along, and we hide ourselves at this New World Hotel on our way back.
So the ladies started looking around at the bag boutique shop, and in the end, only Serene bought something back from there. Karinna just bought 2 new bags less than 1 month ago!
Remember? The trip to Japan!?!?!?
So idle till night time, then go take dinner. Walk ourselves to this Zen Plaza, went to the food court there. Interesting, got people come serve you to help you order. You can order the food yourselves too. So it's pretty weird, makes us wonder whether how should we order the food. ehehehe. As long as can fill the tummy, doesn't matter.
Then it's shopping time at supermarket. Bought water, very important!
Back at hotel, book the trip for Cu Chi Tunnel & Cao Dai Temple. One full day trip!
Friday, April 27, 2007
Finally? Hopefully
Just now the shopowner called me.
She told me that she has told the singing school to stop operations latest by 15 May. Meanwhile, she hoped that I won't keep pestering HDB to give pressure on the noise issues.
She said she intended to talk to Kelly when she is back on 01 May. :P
Well, I told her that in terms of until 15 May, I can't really answer on Kelly's behalf. Rightfully, we can pressurize HDB to fine the shop, who is the shopowner lah.
So things look a little brighter now, hopefully. Anyway, whether to do anything 'weird' from 02-15 May will depend on how Kelly would like to do.
It's now more of our call, so it seems.
Feel good man!
:D
She told me that she has told the singing school to stop operations latest by 15 May. Meanwhile, she hoped that I won't keep pestering HDB to give pressure on the noise issues.
She said she intended to talk to Kelly when she is back on 01 May. :P
Well, I told her that in terms of until 15 May, I can't really answer on Kelly's behalf. Rightfully, we can pressurize HDB to fine the shop, who is the shopowner lah.
So things look a little brighter now, hopefully. Anyway, whether to do anything 'weird' from 02-15 May will depend on how Kelly would like to do.
It's now more of our call, so it seems.
Feel good man!
:D
Thursday, April 26, 2007
贱
Went to my sister's shop around 4:40 today. Expected, the karaoke singing continues.
That simply means that HDB is not working, inefficient, and cannot enforce its rules that certain shop operators must have approval prior to operations.
4 days have passed, and I have no reply from HDB. No email, no phone calls.
Calls were made, and the person who was taking charge of the case, never pick up the call.
So I was sitting in the shop, cracking my head, and thinking to myself. What if, no damn right people is able to help to resolve the issue? What if, when we go to Punggol MP, we are referred back to Aljunied GRC? That would have been a biggest joke for Singapore MPs. :P
We'll see.
As I was walking in the shop, something came to my mind. If the neighbour can produce noise, hmmmmmmmm, SO CAN I!
So I whack on our part of the partition, and fair enough, someone came over to check what happen. I was trying to go into the shop's main door, but no one simply bothered.
So I introduced myself, and asked for audience of the person responsible. Well, dumb me, I was told to talk to the owner instead. I was quite pissed initially, but I was happy to think that I can use the same answer the next time when I test to see if the wall is breakable, and how loud it can produce sound.
I won't take much action, until next Wednesday.
That simply means that HDB is not working, inefficient, and cannot enforce its rules that certain shop operators must have approval prior to operations.
4 days have passed, and I have no reply from HDB. No email, no phone calls.
Calls were made, and the person who was taking charge of the case, never pick up the call.
So I was sitting in the shop, cracking my head, and thinking to myself. What if, no damn right people is able to help to resolve the issue? What if, when we go to Punggol MP, we are referred back to Aljunied GRC? That would have been a biggest joke for Singapore MPs. :P
We'll see.
As I was walking in the shop, something came to my mind. If the neighbour can produce noise, hmmmmmmmm, SO CAN I!
So I whack on our part of the partition, and fair enough, someone came over to check what happen. I was trying to go into the shop's main door, but no one simply bothered.
So I introduced myself, and asked for audience of the person responsible. Well, dumb me, I was told to talk to the owner instead. I was quite pissed initially, but I was happy to think that I can use the same answer the next time when I test to see if the wall is breakable, and how loud it can produce sound.
I won't take much action, until next Wednesday.
Tuesday, April 24, 2007
HDB
My sister's problem with her neighbour shop is still not settled.
Think it's more or less confirmed that HDB simply cannot fulfill their responsibility to get things done.
Problem was presented to them more than 1 month ago, and my sister was asked to check with the police.
After some checking, I discovered it is HDB's responsibility. How exciting.
And now, the problem is still happening. I just went there to check earlier this evening.
So good, HDB allows unauthorised usage of unit for Karaoke singing operations. In other words, HDB allows noise nuisance within your vicinity.
So what if you are privatised?
Sucks badly.
Think it's more or less confirmed that HDB simply cannot fulfill their responsibility to get things done.
Problem was presented to them more than 1 month ago, and my sister was asked to check with the police.
After some checking, I discovered it is HDB's responsibility. How exciting.
And now, the problem is still happening. I just went there to check earlier this evening.
So good, HDB allows unauthorised usage of unit for Karaoke singing operations. In other words, HDB allows noise nuisance within your vicinity.
So what if you are privatised?
Sucks badly.
Monday, April 23, 2007
BI
Eh, not bi, as in the erh... sexual preference ok!
BI = Business Intelligence.
I don't have, so don't ask me. :D
Today has been, I won't say busy, but pretty pre-occupied.
Was early in office, and plounged down to prepare some demo stuff.
Need to show the darn SAP BI Tools, mainly on the features/capabilities of BI 7.0, aka NetWeaver 2004s.
So was browsing my SAP BI IDES system for reports to work on, and also prepared some stuff on using Report Designer, and a little of Workbook Designer. All these new stuffs are giving headaches, but I think slowly getting used to them now.
Next is the highly chim chim Visual Composer. Took a long time to figure out how to use some of the stuff. And the way I look at it, I probably used about about 10-20% of its capabilities. Didn't do any analytical application yet, but Visual Composer is supposed to provide a simple visual platform to allow users to create analytical applications.
Chim?
D'oh!
BI = Business Intelligence.
I don't have, so don't ask me. :D
Today has been, I won't say busy, but pretty pre-occupied.
Was early in office, and plounged down to prepare some demo stuff.
Need to show the darn SAP BI Tools, mainly on the features/capabilities of BI 7.0, aka NetWeaver 2004s.
So was browsing my SAP BI IDES system for reports to work on, and also prepared some stuff on using Report Designer, and a little of Workbook Designer. All these new stuffs are giving headaches, but I think slowly getting used to them now.
Next is the highly chim chim Visual Composer. Took a long time to figure out how to use some of the stuff. And the way I look at it, I probably used about about 10-20% of its capabilities. Didn't do any analytical application yet, but Visual Composer is supposed to provide a simple visual platform to allow users to create analytical applications.
Chim?
D'oh!
Sunday, April 22, 2007
Camera
Today (rather yesterday, since it's already past 12midnight), had been out whole day.
We bought a new digital camera. It's a Panasonic Lumix DMC-FX01. We were deciding between this, and a Canon model. This model has anti-handshake feature, which is the major reason why it was chosen, because in terms of size, it is a little bulkier than the Canon model.
It comes with 1x2GB and 1x1GB SD card memoryas free gift. I think it is more than sufficient for use. Our trip to Japan was using a borrowed Minolta camera, and using 1GB memory. Still, I think we may not be using even 512MB yet.
Free gifts also include camera case, and a carrying case which includes mini tripod and cleaning kit. Don't think will ever use the carrying case items though.
Expensive? Costs us $499. Slightly more than my budget for it, but I think it's alright. Not too expensive in my opinion.
Hope it can come in handy for the next trip..... :)
We bought a new digital camera. It's a Panasonic Lumix DMC-FX01. We were deciding between this, and a Canon model. This model has anti-handshake feature, which is the major reason why it was chosen, because in terms of size, it is a little bulkier than the Canon model.
It comes with 1x2GB and 1x1GB SD card memoryas free gift. I think it is more than sufficient for use. Our trip to Japan was using a borrowed Minolta camera, and using 1GB memory. Still, I think we may not be using even 512MB yet.
Free gifts also include camera case, and a carrying case which includes mini tripod and cleaning kit. Don't think will ever use the carrying case items though.
Expensive? Costs us $499. Slightly more than my budget for it, but I think it's alright. Not too expensive in my opinion.
Hope it can come in handy for the next trip..... :)
Thursday, April 19, 2007
Cheap Thrill
Yesterday, I was home early, rather, normal lah, about 6+pm.
Then once settled down, I was looking out from my kitchen window, see if Karinna would be home yet or not. She called to say she would buy dinner back mah.
My tummy so big, need to fill up with things. hehehe
Then that small dog got so excited, keep tugging me and wanting me to carry her (to look out of the window too).
Did a few times, they damn happy.
Then decided not to carry them, then Sapphire not happy, keep barking at me.
Precious is more obedient, she won't bark at me, but she loves to bark at strangers.
So when Karinna is back, I demo-ed a while at the living room kitchen.
True enough, Sapphire back at me for not carrying her. hehehe
For cheap thrill, my kawaii wife also tried to do the same. She first carried Sapphire to the window, then put her down. After a while, Sapphire barked at her too.
Karinna felt so thrilled. hahaha
Cheap thrill lah.
Today she tried to do the same again. FAILED
hahahahaha
Then once settled down, I was looking out from my kitchen window, see if Karinna would be home yet or not. She called to say she would buy dinner back mah.
My tummy so big, need to fill up with things. hehehe
Then that small dog got so excited, keep tugging me and wanting me to carry her (to look out of the window too).
Did a few times, they damn happy.
Then decided not to carry them, then Sapphire not happy, keep barking at me.
Precious is more obedient, she won't bark at me, but she loves to bark at strangers.
So when Karinna is back, I demo-ed a while at the living room kitchen.
True enough, Sapphire back at me for not carrying her. hehehe
For cheap thrill, my kawaii wife also tried to do the same. She first carried Sapphire to the window, then put her down. After a while, Sapphire barked at her too.
Karinna felt so thrilled. hahaha
Cheap thrill lah.
Today she tried to do the same again. FAILED
hahahahaha
Nice Weather
Really?
Hot like hell.
Bathe come out, feel like going back to bathe again.
I want to go back to Japan!
Or go Genting! *wink*
Tak boleh tahan liow.
Hot like hell.
Bathe come out, feel like going back to bathe again.
I want to go back to Japan!
Or go Genting! *wink*
Tak boleh tahan liow.
Website?
Come to think of it, it seems like some of the stuff I put here are more suitable as static entries for a website.
But I damn lazy to setup website for myself leh.
Do all these things very time-consuming you know. :D
But I damn lazy to setup website for myself leh.
Do all these things very time-consuming you know. :D
Tuesday, April 17, 2007
Monday, April 16, 2007
Chinese software
I've been using legal software all along nowadays.
Wondering what software can I use to read the files created in NJStar software?
Now when I open the files, looks gibberish to me. :P
Guess I have to search harder to something easy to use, and not shareware like NJStar. :P
Wondering what software can I use to read the files created in NJStar software?
Now when I open the files, looks gibberish to me. :P
Guess I have to search harder to something easy to use, and not shareware like NJStar. :P
Ka Ka and Wa Wa
Talked to an ex-colleague earlier on yahoo. She also has a blog, more catered to her 2 children.
Quite cute. All the pics and stuff.
http://kakaandwawa.blogspot.com/
Hers more pictorial, mine more lor soh. hehehe
Mine has no theme either. :D
Quite cute. All the pics and stuff.
http://kakaandwawa.blogspot.com/
Hers more pictorial, mine more lor soh. hehehe
Mine has no theme either. :D
Sunday, April 15, 2007
Holiday
Next public holiday is Labour Day. It's a Tuesday.
Probably going to take Monday leave, and go for a short trip. :D
Currently, choosing Bali. Now on waiting list for the air ticket, redeeming the frequent flyer points. See how it goes.
Then maybe should look at Vesak Day holiday as well. hehehe
Maybe that one go Malaysia lah.
Short and sweet.
Probably going to take Monday leave, and go for a short trip. :D
Currently, choosing Bali. Now on waiting list for the air ticket, redeeming the frequent flyer points. See how it goes.
Then maybe should look at Vesak Day holiday as well. hehehe
Maybe that one go Malaysia lah.
Short and sweet.
Friday, April 13, 2007
Computer kong kiao kiao
Yesterday morning went with my mom to settle some of her fixed deposits stuff. Mothers simply won't listen to you (just like we won't listen to them too :P).
Told her not to put FD as 3 years, but she insisted. Then yesterday complained interest was too little. Blame who? Me lor, for not advising her well.
So took the money out, split part of the money into 1 year FD, and another part into Notes instrument. It sure looks ok to me, and pretty low risk, so don't care her, I chose Notes. hahaha
Took half day to settle such things, mind you. *grumble*
So afternoon decided not to go office, instead went to client's side to help my colleague settle some issues with data loading.
I think I had found the problem. It's with some partner profile being incorrectly done, that causes the data loading to work intermittently.
Anyway, hopefully no more email to tell me about not able to load data.
Then I went to my sister's place. Her new computer which I bought for her last month died! Sigh. Dunno how my nieces use the computer leh. So fast kong kiao kiao.
I turned on the computer, it reported that HDD was disabled somehow. Went into the bios, and check check, seems ok. Not happy liow, so I used the recovery CD to try restoring it back to factory default. It hanged halfway. So rebooted it.
And then, die liow. Now it just keeps rebooting, and not even giving me a chance to bootup from CD. That's it liow lor. Cannot do anything liow.
Didn't want to open up the PC, as it still has warranty. No point voiding it.
So told my brother-in-law to call up Acer service hotline to report problem. Got problem then I will help them later lah. Cannot do much at the moment.
Told her not to put FD as 3 years, but she insisted. Then yesterday complained interest was too little. Blame who? Me lor, for not advising her well.
So took the money out, split part of the money into 1 year FD, and another part into Notes instrument. It sure looks ok to me, and pretty low risk, so don't care her, I chose Notes. hahaha
Took half day to settle such things, mind you. *grumble*
So afternoon decided not to go office, instead went to client's side to help my colleague settle some issues with data loading.
I think I had found the problem. It's with some partner profile being incorrectly done, that causes the data loading to work intermittently.
Anyway, hopefully no more email to tell me about not able to load data.
Then I went to my sister's place. Her new computer which I bought for her last month died! Sigh. Dunno how my nieces use the computer leh. So fast kong kiao kiao.
I turned on the computer, it reported that HDD was disabled somehow. Went into the bios, and check check, seems ok. Not happy liow, so I used the recovery CD to try restoring it back to factory default. It hanged halfway. So rebooted it.
And then, die liow. Now it just keeps rebooting, and not even giving me a chance to bootup from CD. That's it liow lor. Cannot do anything liow.
Didn't want to open up the PC, as it still has warranty. No point voiding it.
So told my brother-in-law to call up Acer service hotline to report problem. Got problem then I will help them later lah. Cannot do much at the moment.
Prose20
带着破碎的心
踏着沉重的脚步
离开那伤心的小站
来到这新的天地
遇见了你
是你
点燃了我心中的光芒
是你
让我拥有新的生命
你我向前迈进
有着一致的心
奔向那万里路
越过那汹涌的海
有你依然在声旁
24 Jan 1988
踏着沉重的脚步
离开那伤心的小站
来到这新的天地
遇见了你
是你
点燃了我心中的光芒
是你
让我拥有新的生命
你我向前迈进
有着一致的心
奔向那万里路
越过那汹涌的海
有你依然在声旁
24 Jan 1988
Thursday, April 12, 2007
Japan Photos
Finally finished uploading the photos into yahoo. :P
Now you can view all the pictures at http://new.photos.yahoo.com/staykc_fun
It's broken down into Day1 to Day9.
Took damn long to load the photos siah.
Next is the scrapbook thingy. hehehe
Another time-wasting task.
Now you can view all the pictures at http://new.photos.yahoo.com/staykc_fun
It's broken down into Day1 to Day9.
Took damn long to load the photos siah.
Next is the scrapbook thingy. hehehe
Another time-wasting task.
Wednesday, April 11, 2007
Japan Synopsis
Synopsis? Nah.
Finally, managed to finished writing the stuff done for the Japan trip.
Just for the fun of it, while I still can remember some parts of it. Nowadays, memory is getting poorer you know? :P
Next, have to finish up the scrapbook thingy. Kinda fun, but it's taking whole lots of time!
Maybe just upload the pictures into Yahoo and share them out. That might be easier. Anyway, I am not going to put ALL the pictures into that scrapbook thingy. 648 pictures is crazy to dump in there.
Well, I can take my time, maybe finish it next year? :P
Finally, managed to finished writing the stuff done for the Japan trip.
Just for the fun of it, while I still can remember some parts of it. Nowadays, memory is getting poorer you know? :P
Next, have to finish up the scrapbook thingy. Kinda fun, but it's taking whole lots of time!
Maybe just upload the pictures into Yahoo and share them out. That might be easier. Anyway, I am not going to put ALL the pictures into that scrapbook thingy. 648 pictures is crazy to dump in there.
Well, I can take my time, maybe finish it next year? :P
Japan Day9
Woke up at 0540hrs.
Washed up, and did a final packing into the luggage.
Checked out by 0620hrs, and lugged our luggages slowly from our hotel to Metropolitan Hotel.
The weather wasn't as cold as we expected, so it's not too bad to walk there. Took about 20 mins to reach there.Once there, we dumped our sweaters into the luggages minimised the things to carry. That's the last last packing for the luggages.
Good thing we reserved our coach seats earlier. It's not full, but quite crowded for the bus.
Reached the airport around 0830hrs. Very early. Anyway, we checked in our luggages first. No need to walk around with them. Karinna has KrisFlyer Gold Member, so she was invited to visit the ANA lounge in the terminal. We went there for some food before boarding our flight back to Singapore.
The lounge is pretty nice, and quite huge.
And then the time came. Time to board the flight, and leave our trails in Japan.
Till the next time ..... Hokkaido ... *wink*
Washed up, and did a final packing into the luggage.
Checked out by 0620hrs, and lugged our luggages slowly from our hotel to Metropolitan Hotel.
The weather wasn't as cold as we expected, so it's not too bad to walk there. Took about 20 mins to reach there.Once there, we dumped our sweaters into the luggages minimised the things to carry. That's the last last packing for the luggages.
Good thing we reserved our coach seats earlier. It's not full, but quite crowded for the bus.
Reached the airport around 0830hrs. Very early. Anyway, we checked in our luggages first. No need to walk around with them. Karinna has KrisFlyer Gold Member, so she was invited to visit the ANA lounge in the terminal. We went there for some food before boarding our flight back to Singapore.
The lounge is pretty nice, and quite huge.
And then the time came. Time to board the flight, and leave our trails in Japan.
Till the next time ..... Hokkaido ... *wink*
Japan Day8
It's the last day in Tokyo to move around. The flight back to Singapore was on the next day morning 11am. For that, we have to be at the Metropolitan Hotel Limousine Bus area by 7am!
So today we woke up pretty earlier too, to go to the Tsukiji Fish Market. Nope. We were not there to see the action in the early hours for the fishmongers auctioning. We were there more for the sushi food as recommended by many people, and books, and internet.
So off we went, and true enough, the actions were all over by the time we reach there, although still lots of busy people moving around.
So we looked for the recommended stalls. But hey, they were all so crowded! Expected anyway.
We decided to just walked around to look for others, and happened to find one which we felt ok near one of the last lanes.
We ordered 2 sets (1 big, and another smaller)
Must say the sushi were all very fresh and tasted very well.
Ate until very full, and burp burp burp burp burp ....
Then we took a slow walk to Ginza. Weather was pretty good. Nice good strolling.
Ginza seems to be nothing much to walked around. Took some pictures as we walked along the streets, and rested for a while before we decided to head back to Ueno.
Back at Ueno, we walked back to the Ueno Park where we first arrived on the first day. The sakuras were still there, but they looked like they we going to wither in another few days time. Still pretty nice to look at, just that some of the trees were already 'balding' :P
This time, we walked one whole around of the Ueno Park.
Next, we walked to the Ameyoko Street where they sell lots and lots of stuff. Basically not a shopping person myself, I usually just walked and walked and walked when I go holiday. So we walked whichever lanes of streets available in that Ameyoko area. Can't remember if we bought anything at all.
Then we went back to Ikebukuro, and this time we ventured to Sunshine City side. We went to Uniqlo shop, where I bought 3 shirts. Was quite cheap, so I bought. I seldom like to buy things when overseas.
Then walked down that Sunshine 60 street. Crowded as expected. I think Tokyo is crowded everywhere.
Then decided to go back early to hotel to pack our things properly.
Had to analyse how we need to pack the stuff into our luggages. Managed to squeeze lots of things well into the luggages, which is good!
Then went down for dinner, in the end couldn't decide on what to eat, we bought instant noodles from the shop next to our hotel, and heat up the instant noodles as dinner.
Had an early night, and it's almost the end of this Japan holiday.
So today we woke up pretty earlier too, to go to the Tsukiji Fish Market. Nope. We were not there to see the action in the early hours for the fishmongers auctioning. We were there more for the sushi food as recommended by many people, and books, and internet.
So off we went, and true enough, the actions were all over by the time we reach there, although still lots of busy people moving around.
So we looked for the recommended stalls. But hey, they were all so crowded! Expected anyway.
We decided to just walked around to look for others, and happened to find one which we felt ok near one of the last lanes.
We ordered 2 sets (1 big, and another smaller)
Must say the sushi were all very fresh and tasted very well.
Ate until very full, and burp burp burp burp burp ....
Then we took a slow walk to Ginza. Weather was pretty good. Nice good strolling.
Ginza seems to be nothing much to walked around. Took some pictures as we walked along the streets, and rested for a while before we decided to head back to Ueno.
Back at Ueno, we walked back to the Ueno Park where we first arrived on the first day. The sakuras were still there, but they looked like they we going to wither in another few days time. Still pretty nice to look at, just that some of the trees were already 'balding' :P
This time, we walked one whole around of the Ueno Park.
Next, we walked to the Ameyoko Street where they sell lots and lots of stuff. Basically not a shopping person myself, I usually just walked and walked and walked when I go holiday. So we walked whichever lanes of streets available in that Ameyoko area. Can't remember if we bought anything at all.
Then we went back to Ikebukuro, and this time we ventured to Sunshine City side. We went to Uniqlo shop, where I bought 3 shirts. Was quite cheap, so I bought. I seldom like to buy things when overseas.
Then walked down that Sunshine 60 street. Crowded as expected. I think Tokyo is crowded everywhere.
Then decided to go back early to hotel to pack our things properly.
Had to analyse how we need to pack the stuff into our luggages. Managed to squeeze lots of things well into the luggages, which is good!
Then went down for dinner, in the end couldn't decide on what to eat, we bought instant noodles from the shop next to our hotel, and heat up the instant noodles as dinner.
Had an early night, and it's almost the end of this Japan holiday.
Japan Day7
We took things easy. No need to rush during holidays right?
First, we went to the Imperial Garden. We took the train to Tokyo Station, and followed some ang moS to the place. Well, we reached there alright. But they took a left turn, which walked quite a distance, and still not able to go into the garden area!
Being the topo expert, I decided to decipher the maps when chanced upon, and realised we took a wrong turn. To get into the garden, you need to make a right turn!
So much time, so we walked there and headed to the garden. It's quite a big place, and it's beautiful too. Still lots of sakuras around. Took more pictures, and more pictures.
Then we headed back to Tokyo Station, and took the JR line to Harajuku.
We went to take our lunch first. Took some time to decide on which restaurant to go to. We ate ramen. The bowl of ramen is so huge, and a lot of the people ate ramen, and another place of rice! I think we had too little appetite or are they just greedy?
After our meal, we walked to Meiji Shrine. Another shrine! It's always temples and temples and temples with all tours! :P
It's pretty neat place. Just outside of this shrine area, you have the busy streets of Tokyo, Within the shrine area, it is simply serene.
We also met another group of tour-package-extenders here! They managed to witness a wedding ceremony near the shrine area. By the time we got in, that ceramony was over.
After that, we went back to Takeshita street at Harajuku again. The other night when we came, it wasn't that crowded. When we were back on our free day, it was so crowded! Totally differently from the night that we came.
Karinna managed to buy some things that she liked while there, so it's not so much of a wasted trip!
Then we went back to our hotel after walking around the Seibu/Parco shopping area. Bought a Blue Label bag. Ouch ouch!
First, we went to the Imperial Garden. We took the train to Tokyo Station, and followed some ang moS to the place. Well, we reached there alright. But they took a left turn, which walked quite a distance, and still not able to go into the garden area!
Being the topo expert, I decided to decipher the maps when chanced upon, and realised we took a wrong turn. To get into the garden, you need to make a right turn!
So much time, so we walked there and headed to the garden. It's quite a big place, and it's beautiful too. Still lots of sakuras around. Took more pictures, and more pictures.
Then we headed back to Tokyo Station, and took the JR line to Harajuku.
We went to take our lunch first. Took some time to decide on which restaurant to go to. We ate ramen. The bowl of ramen is so huge, and a lot of the people ate ramen, and another place of rice! I think we had too little appetite or are they just greedy?
After our meal, we walked to Meiji Shrine. Another shrine! It's always temples and temples and temples with all tours! :P
It's pretty neat place. Just outside of this shrine area, you have the busy streets of Tokyo, Within the shrine area, it is simply serene.
We also met another group of tour-package-extenders here! They managed to witness a wedding ceremony near the shrine area. By the time we got in, that ceramony was over.
After that, we went back to Takeshita street at Harajuku again. The other night when we came, it wasn't that crowded. When we were back on our free day, it was so crowded! Totally differently from the night that we came.
Karinna managed to buy some things that she liked while there, so it's not so much of a wasted trip!
Then we went back to our hotel after walking around the Seibu/Parco shopping area. Bought a Blue Label bag. Ouch ouch!
Japan Day6
It was a very relaxing morning. We took our time to wake up a little later, went for breakfast, did some packing to start our extended free days in Tokyo.
Met up with our tour guide and tour leader. Bade them and other tour group members farewell, and we made our way to our pre-booked Tokyo hotel at Ikebukuro.
Taking the Japan Railway line for the first time. Took a little time to figure out the system, and off we go to Ikebukuro. Once reached, we followed instructions to go to your hotel (New Star Hotel). Pulling the luggages around is pretty troublesome, and Karinna complained her hand ached.
Took a little time to find that small hotel.
Dumped our luggages and clumpsy bags at the hotel, as we were too early for check-ins.
Off we go, but first went to Metropolition Hotel to book for our Limousine Bus to airport on our day of return to Singapore.
We figured it might be better to just take the bus, rather than pulling our luggages in between train stations.
Once settled, we went back to Ikebukuro station, and head towards Tachikawa station.
What's good there?
According to my brother-in-law, there's a snack stall with to-die-for snack called "Xue Mei Niang". It costed us 540yen (one-way) each to travel there just for the snack. hehehe
We not so crazy, so we made a short walk to its Showa Kinen Park nearby, took some pictures. Had wanted to go inside the park, but the weather was turning not-so-good, and lucky for us, it really rained. By then, we had reached sheltered area, and walked around the shopping malls there.
Then we headed back to Shinjuku, basically another shopping area. Window-shopping for a while until the rain became lighter before we go back to our Ikebukuro area. Went into some local Japanese restaurant for our dinner. We used our pointing system, which worked fairly well! hehehe
Then it's back to hotel, settled the luggages well, and had some rest. The bed was a little small though.
Met up with our tour guide and tour leader. Bade them and other tour group members farewell, and we made our way to our pre-booked Tokyo hotel at Ikebukuro.
Taking the Japan Railway line for the first time. Took a little time to figure out the system, and off we go to Ikebukuro. Once reached, we followed instructions to go to your hotel (New Star Hotel). Pulling the luggages around is pretty troublesome, and Karinna complained her hand ached.
Took a little time to find that small hotel.
Dumped our luggages and clumpsy bags at the hotel, as we were too early for check-ins.
Off we go, but first went to Metropolition Hotel to book for our Limousine Bus to airport on our day of return to Singapore.
We figured it might be better to just take the bus, rather than pulling our luggages in between train stations.
Once settled, we went back to Ikebukuro station, and head towards Tachikawa station.
What's good there?
According to my brother-in-law, there's a snack stall with to-die-for snack called "Xue Mei Niang". It costed us 540yen (one-way) each to travel there just for the snack. hehehe
We not so crazy, so we made a short walk to its Showa Kinen Park nearby, took some pictures. Had wanted to go inside the park, but the weather was turning not-so-good, and lucky for us, it really rained. By then, we had reached sheltered area, and walked around the shopping malls there.
Then we headed back to Shinjuku, basically another shopping area. Window-shopping for a while until the rain became lighter before we go back to our Ikebukuro area. Went into some local Japanese restaurant for our dinner. We used our pointing system, which worked fairly well! hehehe
Then it's back to hotel, settled the luggages well, and had some rest. The bed was a little small though.
Japan Day5
That day was cold. Cold. Cold. It rained! Made it worse!
Rather, it should be because of the rain that it was so cold!
It's the adventure day! Either Tokyo DisneyLand or DisneySea. Yes. We were heading back to Tokyo.
8 of the tour group chose DisneySea. Two of us, a family of 5, plus a lady whom went with the grandma in this tour. We chose DisneySea, as we went DisneyLand somewhere else before, so we thought might be better to go DisneySea in Tokyo. It is the only DisneySea in the world too.
It was still raining when we reached DisneySea. First we took the Gondola ride. I think it was a mistake. Although the rain was not heavy, it definitely made your jeans wet. :(Too bad, too late to regret.
Right after that, we made our way towards its "Lost River Delta" area for the Indiana Jones & Raging Spirits rides.I was feeling too cold, so I hid myself in a cafe nearby, while Karinna and Rachel (the grandma-girl) went to take FastPass for Indiana Jones, and queued for the Raging Spirits. They managed to find me after their Raging Spirits ride. Karinna grumbled it's a little cold (as it has some outdoors feature) and too short is the general statement.
Next, we went back to use the FastPass for the Indiana Jones ride. Short but ok.
We decided to skip some of the attraction area. We moved towards to "Mermaid Lagoon" to watch the theater show. Was pretty good, although the conversation was all in Japanese. Can't understand at all. But the feel of it is pretty good.
To save time, we took a quick bite, and got another FastPass for Journey to the Center of the Earth ride, and went over to queue for 20,000 Leagues Under The Sea. The queue itself is also an hour or so. The ride was ok, nothing very thrilling though. Then it's time to use the FastPass for the Earthly ride. That was fun. A little thrilling. Again, short.
By the time we finished these, it was already 4:35pm or so.
We quickly made our way to its "American Waterfront" area to try its Tower of Terror. However, when we reached there, the ride seems to be available only 70 minutes later. We can't do that ride anymore, as it would pass the time of 5:45pm for us to be back on the coach. So we just loitered around the area, saw Donald Duck being chased by the crowds for photographing sessions, saw more of the Volcano eruptions, and finally out of the theme park to meet the rest of the tour group who went for the DisneyLand package.
After dinner, we were brought to Shibuya/Harajuka area for shopping, which the tour guide didn't bring us to on the first day of tour due to traffic conditions. We reached there almost 8pm, and most of the shops were closing around 2030 or 2100, so we just took some short walks along the streets, and then back to the coach and to the hotel.
This is the last night for the tour package. Holidays really flew by very fast.
Rather, it should be because of the rain that it was so cold!
It's the adventure day! Either Tokyo DisneyLand or DisneySea. Yes. We were heading back to Tokyo.
8 of the tour group chose DisneySea. Two of us, a family of 5, plus a lady whom went with the grandma in this tour. We chose DisneySea, as we went DisneyLand somewhere else before, so we thought might be better to go DisneySea in Tokyo. It is the only DisneySea in the world too.
It was still raining when we reached DisneySea. First we took the Gondola ride. I think it was a mistake. Although the rain was not heavy, it definitely made your jeans wet. :(Too bad, too late to regret.
Right after that, we made our way towards its "Lost River Delta" area for the Indiana Jones & Raging Spirits rides.I was feeling too cold, so I hid myself in a cafe nearby, while Karinna and Rachel (the grandma-girl) went to take FastPass for Indiana Jones, and queued for the Raging Spirits. They managed to find me after their Raging Spirits ride. Karinna grumbled it's a little cold (as it has some outdoors feature) and too short is the general statement.
Next, we went back to use the FastPass for the Indiana Jones ride. Short but ok.
We decided to skip some of the attraction area. We moved towards to "Mermaid Lagoon" to watch the theater show. Was pretty good, although the conversation was all in Japanese. Can't understand at all. But the feel of it is pretty good.
To save time, we took a quick bite, and got another FastPass for Journey to the Center of the Earth ride, and went over to queue for 20,000 Leagues Under The Sea. The queue itself is also an hour or so. The ride was ok, nothing very thrilling though. Then it's time to use the FastPass for the Earthly ride. That was fun. A little thrilling. Again, short.
By the time we finished these, it was already 4:35pm or so.
We quickly made our way to its "American Waterfront" area to try its Tower of Terror. However, when we reached there, the ride seems to be available only 70 minutes later. We can't do that ride anymore, as it would pass the time of 5:45pm for us to be back on the coach. So we just loitered around the area, saw Donald Duck being chased by the crowds for photographing sessions, saw more of the Volcano eruptions, and finally out of the theme park to meet the rest of the tour group who went for the DisneyLand package.
After dinner, we were brought to Shibuya/Harajuka area for shopping, which the tour guide didn't bring us to on the first day of tour due to traffic conditions. We reached there almost 8pm, and most of the shops were closing around 2030 or 2100, so we just took some short walks along the streets, and then back to the coach and to the hotel.
This is the last night for the tour package. Holidays really flew by very fast.
Japan Day4
Today is fairly interesting.
A special ride is arranged for the Shinkansen (Bullet Train).
Our coach driver drove us to the train station. He then drove off to the next station to pick us later.
The driver was not very late. He arrived not too far from the time we reached the next station. Not so bad.
Next, it's time to head for Mount Fuji, Japan's most sacred mountain. First we reach the foot of the mountain to take lunch, and a little shopping before we move upwards to the 5th level of the mountain.
The weather that day was a little cold, and as we ascend up the mountain, the fog came. Visibility was greatly reduced, and the sign said the highest level that should be allowed is 2nd level. Awwww ...
The view at 5th level. Awesome! Simply awesome!
And wow, it's cold. Really cold when the wind comes. Just have to run into the shopping area when it is cold. hehehe
Then it's way back down again to the foot of the mountain, where our hotel is.
We were asked to dressed in Yukata, Japanese traditional clothings. Wearing that for dinner! Kinda clumpsy wearing that, but kinda cute to see the whole group of 40 over people wearing similar things.
After dinner, most of the ladies wernt for the onseh (hot steam bath), where you HAVE TO BE naked in order to soak in the steam bath. I think none of the guys went (separate place of course). Guess it's more of a womanly thing to do, or the guys are simply not interested, like myself. Anyway, I was starting to feel sick already, throat was not feeling well at all.
Karinna came back and was joking about being in birthday suit with so many people around. Should be pretty hilarious for first timers.
A special ride is arranged for the Shinkansen (Bullet Train).
Our coach driver drove us to the train station. He then drove off to the next station to pick us later.
Our bullet train ride is only for 1 station, which takes us about 10-12 minutes to the next station.
The coach would need about 1 hour to reach the next station to pick us up.
The time wasted would be in gathering the group of 40 people, getting the tickets, waiting for the train. Not every train arrived at the station is suitable. Some are express train which does not stop at all stations, so have to wait for the correct train to arrive before boarding.
The driver was not very late. He arrived not too far from the time we reached the next station. Not so bad.
Next, it's time to head for Mount Fuji, Japan's most sacred mountain. First we reach the foot of the mountain to take lunch, and a little shopping before we move upwards to the 5th level of the mountain.
The weather that day was a little cold, and as we ascend up the mountain, the fog came. Visibility was greatly reduced, and the sign said the highest level that should be allowed is 2nd level. Awwww ...
As we moved up towards 2nd level, an auntie sneezed so loud that the fog just had to give way !!!
Woah! woah!
The weather cleared up! Visibility returns to almost perfect condition. The driver is then able to make all the way up to the 5th level! Amazing huh?!?!? :P
The view at 5th level. Awesome! Simply awesome!
Here's a glimpse of the mountain.
And wow, it's cold. Really cold when the wind comes. Just have to run into the shopping area when it is cold. hehehe
Where else can you hide?
Then it's way back down again to the foot of the mountain, where our hotel is.
We were asked to dressed in Yukata, Japanese traditional clothings. Wearing that for dinner! Kinda clumpsy wearing that, but kinda cute to see the whole group of 40 over people wearing similar things.
Some of us had special side orders for shashimi boat! It's very expensive at about 11,000 yen!
Worth it? Hmmm. Not so bad. Very fresh, very yummy. Ate until stomach wanna explode!
After dinner, most of the ladies wernt for the onseh (hot steam bath), where you HAVE TO BE naked in order to soak in the steam bath. I think none of the guys went (separate place of course). Guess it's more of a womanly thing to do, or the guys are simply not interested, like myself. Anyway, I was starting to feel sick already, throat was not feeling well at all.
Karinna came back and was joking about being in birthday suit with so many people around. Should be pretty hilarious for first timers.
Japan Day3
Day3 starts the travel towards Kyoto.
Along the way, we visited Todaiji Temple, where there exists one of the largest bronze Buddha structure in Japan. There are some deers roaming around outside the temple too!
In the temple, there's a particular pillar where there is a small hole at the bottom, for people to crawl through it. Doing it is supposedly to bring good luck to the person. Didn't try it, didn't want to get stucked in there with my bulging tummy. hahaha
Think only 1 skinny lady in the group did try that.
Next, we were reaching Kyoto's Kyomizu Temple, where it is famous for its large veranda supported on hundreds of pillars that was built in 1633.
While we were walking along the crowded street towards the temple, 2 'geishas' appeared, and made the whole crowd mad with taking pictures. Some aunties even forced the 2 'geishas' to take pictures with them.
Of course, at the temple, have to pray pray and tolong tolong for good health, good wealth etc ... and good prosperty!
Next, we travelled to somewhere to watch Kimono Fashion Show and have lunch there.
We took our lunch first, and stayed around for a short while to catch the fashion show.
Well, one particular model is not particular good looking, and we tried to take less of her picture! hehehe
Terrible huh? :D
Even when the finale walkdown, when focusing on the group, that particular model was somehow, cleverly minimised in the picture!
Then it is a long journey to the next stop Toyohashi. It took almost 5-6 hours to reach there, and we were almost unable to catch the dinner! I think we reached the hotel around 7:45pm, imagine we left the fashion show place around perhaps 2:15pm?
In between there were some stops of course, as some of the aunties need to have a loo-break.
After dinner, didn't do much, just walk around the supermarket beside the hotel, and called it a day.
Along the way, we visited Todaiji Temple, where there exists one of the largest bronze Buddha structure in Japan. There are some deers roaming around outside the temple too!
In the temple, there's a particular pillar where there is a small hole at the bottom, for people to crawl through it. Doing it is supposedly to bring good luck to the person. Didn't try it, didn't want to get stucked in there with my bulging tummy. hahaha
Think only 1 skinny lady in the group did try that.
Next, we were reaching Kyoto's Kyomizu Temple, where it is famous for its large veranda supported on hundreds of pillars that was built in 1633.
While we were walking along the crowded street towards the temple, 2 'geishas' appeared, and made the whole crowd mad with taking pictures. Some aunties even forced the 2 'geishas' to take pictures with them.
Of course, at the temple, have to pray pray and tolong tolong for good health, good wealth etc ... and good prosperty!
Next, we travelled to somewhere to watch Kimono Fashion Show and have lunch there.
We took our lunch first, and stayed around for a short while to catch the fashion show.
Well, one particular model is not particular good looking, and we tried to take less of her picture! hehehe
Terrible huh? :D
Even when the finale walkdown, when focusing on the group, that particular model was somehow, cleverly minimised in the picture!
Then it is a long journey to the next stop Toyohashi. It took almost 5-6 hours to reach there, and we were almost unable to catch the dinner! I think we reached the hotel around 7:45pm, imagine we left the fashion show place around perhaps 2:15pm?
In between there were some stops of course, as some of the aunties need to have a loo-break.
After dinner, didn't do much, just walk around the supermarket beside the hotel, and called it a day.
Tuesday, April 10, 2007
Japan Day2
Woke up early, as usual with tour packages.
First stop : Osaka Castle. It's one of those buildings you usually see in movies or TV when showing some samurais running around chasing people. Don't really know how to describe it.
Pictures says a thousand words:
This is the place where we saw a female schnauzer being hounded by a male dog (can't remember what species thought). Kinda cute when the female schnauzer keep yelping. Scared until like dunno what. hehehe
Then we headed to Univesal Studio. Only 10 persons opted to go there. Once alighted the 10 persons, the coach headed towards Habourland at Kobe. This is basically a place where the government kept a part of a wrecked earthquake affected area for people to see. Kobe was not expected to be an earthquake zone, but still, it was hit by earthquake in 1995.
Other than taking pictures, not much to do too huh? And the coach ride is usually about 1 hr to reach next destination.
Then went back to pick the Universal Studio group of people, and off to dinner. It's always shopping and food, and coach rides!
Then I think we headed to Shinsaibashi, shopping and food paradise. We ate some barberque crab legs, japanese sotong balls (can't remember what is it called), and japanese fried pancakes. In fact, first order was done wrongly, and it turned out to be fried noodle. The food were not so bad, was alright. The beer (Sapparo) is good though, very smooth.
Thereafter, it's sweet dreams time again. The day sure passed very fast.
Monday, April 9, 2007
杜鹃花日子
One of those songs with the most beautiful lyrics written. The tune is nice too!
It's a very song song actually.
http://www.vvya.net/player/0941014941327144.htm
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杜鹃花日子
作词：达辉 作曲：Ryo Aska
去年三月多精采
杜鹃园 花正开
有一个我有一个你
相知相爱
今年三月多悲哀
杜鹃红红依然开
剩下我一个没有你
默默地徘徊
杜鹃花开红又红
我的心在痛呀痛
生命本无奈
命运谁能修改
多情 自古 馀恨
斟一杯美酒
一束花 一片苍凉泥土
伴着你沈睡
花落红看花落红
满布遍地回忆梦
就让我轻轻说一声
永远的爱
不管海角与天涯
我会好好把你想
那一段杜鹃花日子
美丽但短触
It's a very song song actually.
http://www.vvya.net/player/0941014941327144.htm
=================================================
杜鹃花日子
作词：达辉 作曲：Ryo Aska
去年三月多精采
杜鹃园 花正开
有一个我有一个你
相知相爱
今年三月多悲哀
杜鹃红红依然开
剩下我一个没有你
默默地徘徊
杜鹃花开红又红
我的心在痛呀痛
生命本无奈
命运谁能修改
多情 自古 馀恨
斟一杯美酒
一束花 一片苍凉泥土
伴着你沈睡
花落红看花落红
满布遍地回忆梦
就让我轻轻说一声
永远的爱
不管海角与天涯
我会好好把你想
那一段杜鹃花日子
美丽但短触
Saturday, April 7, 2007
Japan Day1
Day 1 as in reaching there as the first day, rather than travel agency's Day1.
Flight scheduled as 2355hrs the day before, so it was Day1 for the agency.
Crappy, but that's how they work. :P
The tour group has about 40 people & 1 tour leader from the agency.
When touched down, it was raining somehow, kinda cold. The coach that came to pick us was somehow a little smaller, the luggages were too much for the compartment, and some of them have to be loaded along the walkway in the coach! Luckily, the bus was only for that day, since we'll be taking domestic flight to Osaka in the evening.
It was about 1.5 hrs ride to Tokyo. First stop was at Ueno. The Ueno Park was filled with sakura trees. Lots of blossoming sakura along the ride from airport to Tokyo too. It's simply lucky for this tour to be able to see sakura, as it was forecasted to blossom two weeks earlier!
After Ueno, it was about time for lunch. Went to Asakusa, and took the the first Japanese lunch of the trip. Not very fantastic, but still alright. How wrong can tempura be? :P
Next, we're brought to Asakua Kannon Temple. Walking along the shopping streets, and venture into the shrine area. Pray to the gods there for ..... *wink wink*. Don't tell you. :D
Quite a long stop point, Karinna bought some bag there. As long as she likes, no problem!
Next, we were supposed to go to Shibuya, another shopping stop (what else but shopping in Tokyo!?!?!?). However, the traffic was a little bad, the tour guide decided to switch plan, and brought us to somewhere near Odaiba, which is a reclaimed land area in Tokyo.
This place is also near the dinner place, as well as more convenient to head to Haneda airpot for our night flight to Osaka.
Shibuya will be visited when we come back to Tokyo.
Didn't really do much at Odaiba area, just walking around the shopping mall, visited the Toyota showroom, and it's time to head for dinner.
That area is also the place which we saw people shopping in the mall with their pets in baby trolley (or pet trolley?!?!). How refreshing!
Finally, reached Osaka, and quickly get into hotel, and had a good rest. It had been a long day ...
Flight scheduled as 2355hrs the day before, so it was Day1 for the agency.
Crappy, but that's how they work. :P
The tour group has about 40 people & 1 tour leader from the agency.
When touched down, it was raining somehow, kinda cold. The coach that came to pick us was somehow a little smaller, the luggages were too much for the compartment, and some of them have to be loaded along the walkway in the coach! Luckily, the bus was only for that day, since we'll be taking domestic flight to Osaka in the evening.
It was about 1.5 hrs ride to Tokyo. First stop was at Ueno. The Ueno Park was filled with sakura trees. Lots of blossoming sakura along the ride from airport to Tokyo too. It's simply lucky for this tour to be able to see sakura, as it was forecasted to blossom two weeks earlier!
After Ueno, it was about time for lunch. Went to Asakusa, and took the the first Japanese lunch of the trip. Not very fantastic, but still alright. How wrong can tempura be? :P
Next, we're brought to Asakua Kannon Temple. Walking along the shopping streets, and venture into the shrine area. Pray to the gods there for ..... *wink wink*. Don't tell you. :D
Quite a long stop point, Karinna bought some bag there. As long as she likes, no problem!
Next, we were supposed to go to Shibuya, another shopping stop (what else but shopping in Tokyo!?!?!?). However, the traffic was a little bad, the tour guide decided to switch plan, and brought us to somewhere near Odaiba, which is a reclaimed land area in Tokyo.
This place is also near the dinner place, as well as more convenient to head to Haneda airpot for our night flight to Osaka.
Shibuya will be visited when we come back to Tokyo.
Didn't really do much at Odaiba area, just walking around the shopping mall, visited the Toyota showroom, and it's time to head for dinner.
That area is also the place which we saw people shopping in the mall with their pets in baby trolley (or pet trolley?!?!). How refreshing!
Finally, reached Osaka, and quickly get into hotel, and had a good rest. It had been a long day ...
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