tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-58674440511226157202024-03-05T02:14:56.370-08:00Christy's Traveblogue: Around the world with MEChristy's traveblogue to everywhere around the world; a quest to travel to most countries and continentsChristina Kimhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11812903022397709758noreply@blogger.comBlogger350125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5867444051122615720.post-13893662008051776072015-07-01T21:51:00.002-07:002015-07-01T21:51:27.308-07:00I Have MOVED to angelstarchristy.comIt has been a while, and finally, I have now consolidated my blog posts to my new home domain!<br />
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It is a tough decision, and I do miss this Traveblogue which have been my portal to share my travel stories as I take that journey(s) out to see the big world out there, but it is also a better move to have all under one roof.<br />
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This blog will still be maintained for all the old posts, as a walk down memory lane and a reminder of my old blogging style :-)<br />
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However, for NEW and updated posts from now onwards, kindly UPDATE YOUR LINKS and HOP Over to...<br />
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<a href="http://www.angelstarchristy.com/"><span style="font-size: x-large;">ANGELSTARCHRISTY.COM</span></a></h2>
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<span style="font-size: x-large;">LINK:<br /><a href="http://www.angelstarchristy.com/">http://www.angelstarchristy.com</a></span></h2>
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SEE ALL of you THERE!</div>
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Christina Kimhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11812903022397709758noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5867444051122615720.post-32816980177524918182015-04-22T07:31:00.001-07:002015-04-22T07:31:43.059-07:00How to Renew Your Malaysian Passport: What to Expect<br />
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<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/10663151@N00/17232688482" title="17233452005_62b5f7048a_o_Fotor by AngelstarChristy, on Flickr"><img alt="17233452005_62b5f7048a_o_Fotor" height="640" src="https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7690/17232688482_a1a7231957_z.jpg" width="479" /></a>
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Passports are crucial traveling documents; without which there is no way anyone could enjoy trotting all over the globe and take those gorgeous photos or experience for themselves the fascinating cultures in every part of the world.<br />
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Every country will definitely have their respective procedures involved in the application, renewal and processing of this important document for their citizens.<br />
This post is dedicated to the Malaysian passport renewal process, based on my personal experience.<br />
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I have recently renewed my passport and I am happy that the entire process was really fast and simple.<br />
It was a huge improvement from the past, and the Malaysian passport renewal has never been easier.<br />
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I was not sure since it has been 5 years ago since my last experience, and I have heard of the changes in the process but a quick check in the informative website of the <b><u>Malaysian Immigration Department</u></b> (<b><u>Jabatan Imigresen Malaysia</u></b>) gave me enough information before I make that trip to the department itself.<br />
Check out the website(Section on Malaysian International Passport) <a href="http://www.imi.gov.my/index.php/en/main-services/pasport/malaysian-international-passport" target="_blank">here</a><br />
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<b><u>The Process of Renewing the Passport in Less than an Hour</u></b><br />
1. Go to your nearest Immigration Office (check the list <a href="http://passport.my/Malaysian%20Immigration%20Offices.htm" target="_blank">here</a> for the locations and operating hours).<br />
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2. Bring along your:-<br />
a. Malaysian Identification Card (MyKad)<br />
b. Birth certificates for first time/children below 18 years old - parents ICs are also required.<br />
c. Old Passport<br />
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3. Take your waiting number at the counter<br />
**Please prepare your old passport along with your MyKad in hand<br />
No forms are required, unless on case basis<br />
Keep this slip of paper stating your number at all times while you are in the Immigration office.<br />
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4. When it's your turn, go to the counter and give them your existing/old passport directly, along with your slip of paper stating your waiting number<br />
(The slip is to ensure that you did not jump queue. No, I was kidding, it is an important number which will be used throughout the entire process; from processing to payment and collection of new passport)<br />
Your photo will be taken on the spot at the counter.<br />
(Yes, there is a camera attached at each counter).<br />
They will also take your thumbprints (right)<br />
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5. Go back to your seat, and make your payment the next time your number is called.<br />
Fees are now at MYR200.00 (Standard) for 5 Years Validity.<br />
There is no more 2 Years validity; they have standardized this.<br />
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6. The third time is to collect your passport, which should be about 20-30 minutes of waiting time.<br />
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The entire process takes only less than an hour.<br />
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<b><u>What to Expect for:</u></b><br />
<b><u><br /></u></b>
<b><u>Passport Photos</u></b><br />
1. Photos will be taken on the spot at the counter<br />
2. Ensure that your ears are visible - it is a mandatory requirement.<br />
3. The color of the photo in the passport will be mono anyway, so it doesn't really matter what color you're wearing although traditionally it is always best to wear darker colors, to create that contrast, even in a black and white background.<br />
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<b><u>Fees</u></b><br />
1. Fees: MYR200.00 for 5 Years<br />
It is a standard fee for everyone except for special cases (2.) and (3.) - refer below.<br />
There is no longer validity of 2 years for renewal.<br />
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2. Special fees are at MYR100 for 5 years, but applicable to the following ONLY<br />
- Children under 12 years old.<br />
- Students under 21 years old with proof to study abroad on the day of submission.<br />
- Pilgrims.<br />
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3. Exemption is also given to disabled on the condition that they produce supporting documents from the Welfare Department<br />
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**Please bring along cash, or other modes of payment are as below:-<br />
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a. Postal Order or Crossed Bank Draft :<br />
In Malaysia – made payable to the Director- General of Immigration Malaysia or State Immigration Director only.<br />
Overseas – made payable to the High Commissioner of Malaysia/ Deputy High Commissioner of Malaysia/ Malaysian Ambassador/ Malaysian Consulate General (where applicable)<br />
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An Official receipt will be issued upon payment.<br />
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For more information on the requirements for the Malaysian passport, do check on the official website <a href="http://www.imi.gov.my/index.php/en/main-services/pasport/malaysian-international-passport" target="_blank">here</a><br />
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Voila, no more hassle or long queues, and it is a great improvement to the system.<br />
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I am a happy traveler now :-)<br />
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<br />Christina Kimhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11812903022397709758noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5867444051122615720.post-61377616931537359452015-03-24T02:27:00.000-07:002015-03-24T02:29:27.419-07:00From Rubbish Art to Masterpieces<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/10663151@N00/16707024167" title="P1350834_Fotor by AngelstarChristy, on Flickr"><img alt="P1350834_Fotor" height="427" src="https://farm9.staticflickr.com/8754/16707024167_865b238bce_z.jpg" width="640" /></a>
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Stains of dirt and residues of the rainwater dripping down these
once-white washed brick and lime plastered walls are evident, stripping the pre
war buildings and shop houses of their former glory. </div>
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Perhaps they were once majestic in their past; concealing the untold
stories as they stand in their place, bearing witnesses to the many events and
even tragedies which unfold before them.</div>
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Today their dilapidated state is a sure giveaway of their age and sorry
states, as they stand in the bleak part of the town, casting gloomy shadows of
themselves as they are no longer at the prime of their youth nor are they the
center of the limelight, but instead they are today sore to the eyesight, and
no one would even take a second glance at them.</div>
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They are only known as the old buildings; thrown into the background as
urbanization and modern buildings step into take their places and the only
attention they are getting are from the people who call them hazards to the
society and placed them on the list of demolition, paving that way for their
blueprint plans of sky high buildings adorned with glass windows and ceilings
in their places.</div>
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There is no escaping that fate, and they are screaming, weeping tears
in silent protest of their own extinction; pained by the cruelty of their fates
and also the fact that their contributions, deeds and reasons of existence have
been forgotten in that blink of an eye. They are no longer important; that
message was clear and the recognition of their past (or lack of) is clearly
almost nonexistent.</div>
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They were nothing but just remnants of trash to be taken out to clear
out the backyard; all in the name of modernization.</div>
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Their futures are bleak and they moan their distasteful eviction from
the present but no one heard their cries. Their existence no longer means anything.</div>
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One man changed everything.</div>
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With a touch of his brush and creativity, he gave life again to these
walls.</div>
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He saved them with his grace of painting and brought back feelings of
exuberance and reformation to the town.</div>
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With just one brush.</div>
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A joint effort between the municipal of Georgetown and this budding young
Lituanian artist, <u><b>Ernest Zacharevic</b></u> took on the bold challenge to transform the
historical town, also the capital of the famous <b><u>Pearl of the Orient</u></b>, the <i>Penang
island located on the north of Malaysia</i>, with just a few paintings to inject
that fresh breath onto the yellowish pages of the town.</div>
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It started with six paintings; and the local council granted the artist
the permission to begin his project, painting, on, get this, the old street
walls.</div>
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The old dilapidated walls are the artist’s canvas for him to unleash
his talent and creativity.</div>
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It is a winning situation for many parties, if you come to think of it;
the town gets another identity and an overnight sensation of catapulted fame,
the local authorities reap from the boost in tourism, the artist gets to
showcase his talent and a chance at fame, the owners of the shophouses, well,
get a fresh coat on their sorry walls, and the walls, are, now, priceless and
saved from their intended evil destruction.</div>
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It was a huge success, probably more than the original plan.</div>
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Ernest Zacharevic proved to be an incredible talent with his strokes,
and he had painted realistic and remarkably heartfelt depictions of the local
scenes.</div>
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His paintings drew the locals and tourists from all over the nation and
worldwide to throng the island in droves.</div>
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It was amazing, the way his paintings; his street art or murals, evoke
emotions and memories of the local scenes which is perhaps, the very reason for
drawing his audience (art or even non-art enthusiasts) to flock to each
location of his art like opposite sides of the magnate.</div>
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From the “<b><i>Boy on a Bike</i></b>” to the “<b><i>Little Children on a Bicycle</i></b>” and
the striking “<b><i>Awaiting Trishaw Pedaler</i></b>”, the location of these walls became
instant tourist spots and dot the traveler’s map, topping the list of the <u>places
to visit</u>, or <i>must visit</i> in
Penang.<br />
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<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/10663151@N00/16913344951" title="P1350828_Fotor by AngelstarChristy, on Flickr"><img alt="P1350828_Fotor" height="640" src="https://farm9.staticflickr.com/8695/16913344951_10f3bf918a_z.jpg" width="427" /></a>
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<i><span style="font-size: x-small;">Another piece, "Reaching Up" found on one of the walls and have been featured in one of the Hong Kong drama</span></i></div>
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Already a tourist destination in its heydays due to the crowns of “<b><i><u>Food
Paradise</u></i></b>” and heritage status (Penang is recognized and honored as a<b><u> UNESCO
Heritage Site</u></b> since <i>2008</i>), along with its longstanding tiara of being nicknamed
as the <b><u>Pearl of the Orient</u></b> due to its many wonders (nothing could be better
than that; in fact the island is almost unbeatable in its fame compared to its
minute size on the map), the island continues to enjoy more attention worldwide
and welcoming visitors from all over the world.</div>
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The spike in tourism delighted the locals and businesses continue to
prosper, and there is no longer a difference in weekends and weekdays for there
are always foreign folks on the island throughout the year.</div>
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The locals were the first to pay homage to these artistic paintings, of
course, though there were also many who have not been. It is always as such,
for the locals are always the comfortable in their own backyards and believe that
they are always going to be there.</div>
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After all, it is their hometown, isn’t it?</div>
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Tourists are excited to stalk the spots where the wall art are located,
and it became sort of an activity of treasure hunt, or rather, wall art hunt,
as everyone follows the trail, preying on one mural after another.</div>
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Technology has definitely helped to spread the reputation of these
street murals; with the creativity of poses and postings to social media
accounts such as Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, and Pinterest. </div>
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The walls have definitely been restored to its former glory, though
they have been reinstated with a new breath of identity altogether, with that
coat of illustration and colors on their faces.</div>
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Well, at least, it did well to mask their fears and insecurities, and
also the misery of their former selves.</div>
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The walls can now breath a sigh of relief, and continue to smile as
they are now, right smack, thrown into the limelight and perhaps, they might
now silently wish for a moment of silence, once in a while.</div>
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The surge in the overnight fame of the street wall art catapulted its
artist, <b>Ernest Zacharevic</b> into stardom, as he rides on his new fame; holding
his art exhibition on the island as well. </div>
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It probably also inspired many others to have a go at demonstrating
their skills, transpiring the many more unknown paintings and murals to emerge
on the street walls over time, and perhaps, at an alarming rate too. The growth
of these murals makes it difficult for many to distinguish between the real
McCoy from the decoys.</div>
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Perhaps there are many more <b>Ernest Zacharevics</b> out there, or they are
just wannabes, trying their luck to be someone one day. </div>
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However controls are exerted, for unauthorized paintings on the public
street walls constitute acts of vandalism and is a breach of public
responsibility, and definitely, illegal by all means. </div>
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Once regarded as an act of vandalism; street paintings (or perhaps some form of beautified graffiti) on
public street walls, are now given a new name in justice, with their
contributions to the local tourism.</div>
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They are now known as Street Art/Mural.</div>
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<b>Ernest Zacharevic</b> has popularized street art, and given a fresh
perspective to as he calls it, rubbish art, but he has definitely
given them their due credit.</div>
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It is not just with a flick of brush, but it comes with talent and
skill, and of course, that burst of creativity.</div>
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Let’s not forget about opportunity either, for there are so many
talented people out there who remain unrecognized and perhaps underrated for
they never had the opportunity.</div>
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<br /></div>
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Given the opportunity and the permission, rubbish or street art can become tourist
and social media worthy of attention but remember, doing it on your own and
without the right approval, it is still a crime and one is just asking for
trouble.</div>
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<br /></div>
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<o:p><br /></o:p></div>
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Thanks to <b>Ernest Zacharevic</b>, these street art has unveiled the beauty
of Penang to the world, through her very own eyes, or walls, if you may, of the
simplicity and exuberance of the lives here, a secret well kept by the locals
and now, proudly illustrated for the world to see.</div>
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<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/10663151@N00/16728163779" title="P1350826_Fotor by AngelstarChristy, on Flickr"><img alt="P1350826_Fotor" height="427" src="https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7617/16728163779_d93359d766_z.jpg" width="640" /></a>
</div>
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<o:p><i>What a coincidence when I captured this photo, definitely not planned in my "accidental photo shoot"!</i></o:p></div>
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<o:p><br /></o:p></div>
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<o:p><br /></o:p></div>
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**Most of the street art by Ernest Zacharevic are located in the UNESCO
Heritage site of Georgetown; mainly centering in the Armenian Street enclave,
bordering Weld Quay and its vicinity. **</div>
Christina Kimhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11812903022397709758noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5867444051122615720.post-68529898864403989222015-03-19T07:10:00.000-07:002015-03-19T07:10:07.095-07:00Seafood by the Sea at Baywatch Restaurant<br />
<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/10663151@N00/16861067411" title="P1260798_Fotor by AngelstarChristy, on Flickr"><img alt="P1260798_Fotor" height="309" src="https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7651/16861067411_7c3cb44735_z.jpg" width="640" /></a>
<br />
<br />
<b><u>Baywatch Seafood Restaurant</u></b> was the one I tried on my visit/day trip to the coastal town of Tanjung Sepat (in my last post <a href="http://christytraveblogue.blogspot.com/2015/03/for-just-one-day-tanjung-sepat.html%EF%BB%BF" target="_blank">here</a>).<br />
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Reputed to be one of the more popular ones in town, this seemed to be the restaurant that many have been to during their visit to this town.<br />
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Perhaps it is their sea view facing location that attracts many to come for their seafood meal, or maybe it is their opening hours; operating throughout lunch and dinner.<br />
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<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/10663151@N00/16674507238" title="P1260795_Fotor by AngelstarChristy, on Flickr"><img alt="P1260795_Fotor" height="480" src="https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7627/16674507238_4182bde108_z.jpg" width="640" /></a>
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<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/10663151@N00/16860948242" title="P1260793_Fotor by AngelstarChristy, on Flickr"><img alt="P1260793_Fotor" height="480" src="https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7642/16860948242_15c9757b77_z.jpg" width="640" /></a>
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The other reason could be the popularization by local food commentary and host, Axian, who had paid his visit and recommended the restaurant.<br />
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<br />
<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/10663151@N00/16860951062" title="P1260779_Fotor by AngelstarChristy, on Flickr"><img alt="P1260779_Fotor" height="427" src="https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7614/16860951062_0093282337_z.jpg" width="640" /></a><br />
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Lunch was a simple affair, and most of the dishes were supposedly their signature or recommended ones.<br />
<br />
These are not the only things we had at the seafood restaurant, of course, but they are the starters to the meal.<br />
<br />
<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/10663151@N00/16862107325" title="P1260780_Fotor by AngelstarChristy, on Flickr"><img alt="P1260780_Fotor" height="427" src="https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7605/16862107325_505d513d01_z.jpg" width="640" /></a>
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<br />
<b><u>Crabs with salted egg yolk</u></b><br />
<br />
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<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/10663151@N00/16674510468" title="P1260781_Fotor by AngelstarChristy, on Flickr"><img alt="P1260781_Fotor" height="427" src="https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7608/16674510468_6511c525f5_z.jpg" width="640" /></a>
<br />
<br />
<b><u>Lala/Clams in Herbal Soup</u></b><br />
<br />
<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/10663151@N00/16654806927" title="P1260782_Fotor by AngelstarChristy, on Flickr"><img alt="P1260782_Fotor" height="427" src="https://farm9.staticflickr.com/8688/16654806927_6d839c6a8c_z.jpg" width="640" /></a>
<br />
<br />
<br />
<b><u>Deep Fried Mantis Prawns with Dried Chilies (Kung Pow Style)</u></b><br />
<br />
<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/10663151@N00/16654806667" title="P1260783_Fotor by AngelstarChristy, on Flickr"><img alt="P1260783_Fotor" height="480" src="https://farm9.staticflickr.com/8643/16654806667_3f4edab7ff_z.jpg" width="640" /></a>
<br />
<br />
<br />
<b><u>Spare ribs in BBQ Sauce</u></b><br />
<br />
<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/10663151@N00/16836231006" title="P1260785_Fotor by AngelstarChristy, on Flickr"><img alt="P1260785_Fotor" height="480" src="https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7634/16836231006_cf1a39a7a3_z.jpg" width="640" /></a><br />
<br />
<b><u>Prawns wrapped in Lotus leaf</u></b><br />
<br />
<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/10663151@N00/16239741614" title="P1260787_Fotor by AngelstarChristy, on Flickr"><img alt="P1260787_Fotor" height="480" src="https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7620/16239741614_4544d5b600_z.jpg" width="640" /></a><br />
<br />
<b><u>Steamed White Pomfret with soy sauce</u></b><br />
<br />
<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/10663151@N00/16674711290" title="P1260790_Fotor by AngelstarChristy, on Flickr"><img alt="P1260790_Fotor" height="480" src="https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7655/16674711290_e886953110_z.jpg" width="640" /></a><br />
<br />
<b><u>Claypot Beancurd with assorted Seafood</u></b><br />
<br />
<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/10663151@N00/16862105125" title="P1260791_Fotor by AngelstarChristy, on Flickr"><img alt="P1260791_Fotor" height="480" src="https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7654/16862105125_f6c52330b2_z.jpg" width="640" /></a><br />
<br />
<b><u>Stir Fried Kale with Salted Fish </u></b><br />
<br />
<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/10663151@N00/16242134613" title="P1260792_Fotor by AngelstarChristy, on Flickr"><img alt="P1260792_Fotor" height="480" src="https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7640/16242134613_f7aca98c67_z.jpg" width="640" /></a><br />
<br />
I have not much to comment on the food; just on the average for most of them, hence the photo essay theme for this post where I let the photos do the talking.<br />
As I was also on a guided tour (where everything is arranged by the company and paid for), I am not aware of the prices for the dishes above.<br />
I would say that I still stick to my regular favorites for my own list of seafood restaurants :-)<br />
<br />
The view is however quite something for one to enjoy while having their meal here, and I think the main attraction of the restaurant, or at least, it is for city dwellers who do not get to enjoy this on a daily basis.<br />
<br />
<br />
<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/10663151@N00/16860947852" title="P1260794_Fotor by AngelstarChristy, on Flickr"><img alt="P1260794_Fotor" height="480" src="https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7635/16860947852_c0663bb1bf_z.jpg" width="640" /></a>
<br />
<br />
<br />
Maybe I could do a comparison when I get to try another restaurant on my next visit.<br />
<br />
<br />Christina Kimhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11812903022397709758noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5867444051122615720.post-15572403442057417752015-03-19T04:02:00.002-07:002015-03-19T04:02:51.859-07:00For Just One Day - Tanjung Sepat<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/10663151@N00/16860947852" title="P1260794_Fotor by AngelstarChristy, on Flickr"><img alt="P1260794_Fotor" height="480" src="https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7635/16860947852_c0663bb1bf_z.jpg" width="640" /></a>
<br />
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
Ask any city dweller their ideal concept of a short getaway and you
will probably get majority of the responses in the direction of heading out of
the city; to the outskirts of the city and there is no doubt images of sea, sand,
lush greenery, blue skies and the serene sounds of nature would fill their
minds.</div>
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Well, majority, that is.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
(I would not mind going to another city though; or say no to that idea,
because I have such strong love for cities. It is in the blood).</div>
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<br /></div>
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It is not that we do not have blue skies or even that slightest sign of
nature in the city; maybe not really that blue on days when it is all shrouded
in the thick haze (which is pretty much most of the days), and we do have
trees, planted on the roads where we travel to work every day. Young budding
trees which peek out with their thin and frail branches in that peek-a-boo
manner as they stand in that well-distanced line along the road dividers,
choking in that massive clouds of carbon monoxide while doing their best to
breathe and balance their supply of oxygen and carbon dioxide at the same time.</div>
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That, is pretty much our definition of blue skies and nature in the
city.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
Maybe not to such an extent, though there is still that truth in it and
adds to that longing in the hearts of the urban folks to crave for that fresh
crisp air and the sweet sounds of nature once in a while.<br />
<br /></div>
<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/10663151@N00/16675987999" title="P1260723_Fotor by AngelstarChristy, on Flickr"><img alt="P1260723_Fotor" height="375" src="https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7648/16675987999_68e8b712b0_z.jpg" width="640" /></a>
<br />
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<br /></div>
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If you are living in a city, you’d understand.</div>
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(City-born are still quite used and have grown accustomed to their
environment, but anything out of their daily surroundings will still fascinate
them to the core – just make sure that the conditions are bearable with no
cripple in their basic needs).</div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
That is why you always see city folks jump for joy whenever they are
presented with a simple view of the sea and sandy beaches, along with verdant
greenery and dense jungles. It immediately brings peace and calmness to their
senses.</div>
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While there are many locations out of the country promising such ideal
getaways, there are also plenty to be found locally and one need not look too
far to search for it.</div>
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If you are living in the city of KL, one of the nearest location and one
of the best hidden spots (until recently) is this little fishing village town
along the coastal shores of Selangor.</div>
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<br /></div>
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Just a few kilometers; or <b>15km north of Bagan Lallang</b> (another popular
destination), <b><u>Tanjung Sepat</u></b> is a homegrown coastal town in the <b><u>Kuala Langat</u></b> district
of <b><u>Selangor</u></b> (the state bordering the Federal Territory). </div>
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This humble town is all about fishery; with
most of the economy centering on the fishing activity and also the trading of their
haul from the sea.</div>
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<br /></div>
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Of late, the town has caught the attention of many, with the boom of
the <b>Sepang Gold Coast</b> which attracted many visitors to take that trip off the
beaten path and landed them in this small fishing village of a town.</div>
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<br /></div>
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The size of the town and its location tucked away far from the city
makes it relatively easy to navigate and even to explore on one’s own.</div>
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<br /></div>
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An itinerary would not be too much of a fuss to plan, for the locations
are focused in a few primary spots and do not need much traveling distance from
one to the other.</div>
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The laidback nature of the town is one of the main attractions, and
their specialties, while may not rival the long lists of other tourist
destinations are still held proudly by the locals.</div>
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<br /></div>
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One Day, that’s all you will need to explore what Tanjung Sepat has to
offer.</div>
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(and that includes a seafood meal with the seafront view as well)</div>
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<br /></div>
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Things that Tanjung Sepat is famous for, can be summarized simply:- </div>
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<b>1. Seafood</b></div>
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<b>2. Fish-based Products</b></div>
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<b>3. Agro-based products</b></div>
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<b>4. Pau</b></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpFirst" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; text-indent: -0.25in;">
<span style="font-size: 9px;">1</span></div>
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<br /></div>
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Start the trip early in the morning; it takes approximately 2 hours or
so to drive from the city to this town and be ready to enjoy the views of the
beckoning sea as one reaches the part of the outskirt, or coastal area of the
Selangor state.</div>
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<br /></div>
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There are a few farms to explore, and as I was on a guided tour (it was
a trip courtesy of my company), we stopped by the Dragon Fruit farm.</div>
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<br /></div>
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<br />
The <b><u>Multi Rich Pitaya farm</u></b>
is an eye-opener; well, at least for ignorant city folk like myself, presented
with that opportunity to see the dragon fruit locally grown in their modestly
sized plantation.<br />
<br />
<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/10663151@N00/16674692550" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" title="P1260687_Fotor by AngelstarChristy, on Flickr"><img alt="P1260687_Fotor" height="427" src="https://farm9.staticflickr.com/8747/16674692550_fcd1b5b57b_z.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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It is my first time, seeing that very tree, or rather cactus-like plant
sprouting the baby dragon fruits (in their stages of growth).</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
The plants were somewhat terrifying to me; in their expansive
flourishing style (some even sprawling-like) with the fruits growing on the
ends of their seemingly sharp claw-like branches.<br />
<br /></div>
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<br /></div>
<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/10663151@N00/16239758374" title="P1260698_Fotor by AngelstarChristy, on Flickr"><img alt="P1260698_Fotor" height="427" src="https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7605/16239758374_d38af885ec_z.jpg" width="640" /></a>
<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/10663151@N00/16675956019" title="P1260685_Fotor by AngelstarChristy, on Flickr"><img alt="P1260685_Fotor" height="640" src="https://farm9.staticflickr.com/8618/16675956019_fbd18db759_z.jpg" width="427" /></a>
</div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/10663151@N00/16239721514" title="P1260690_Fotor by AngelstarChristy, on Flickr"><img alt="P1260690_Fotor" height="640" src="https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7653/16239721514_49ce644f8d_z.jpg" width="427" /></a>
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
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The pitaya fruits (the more generic term for the dragon fruits, as they
are also known) are wrapped with plastic bags to avoid birds pecking at them,
or insects drilling into the fruits for commercial reasons.</div>
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These fruits are popular among the locals and are also exported in
multitudes to the cities and other states, some even to overseas (for the
larger plantations.</div>
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(The wrapping of fruits with plastic bags or newspapers is commonly practiced,
as a way to protect the fruits from damage, be it for commercial reasons or
even for personal consumption).<br />
<br />
<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/10663151@N00/16239720494" title="P1260692_Fotor by AngelstarChristy, on Flickr"><img alt="P1260692_Fotor" height="427" src="https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7653/16239720494_a48a547ddf_z.jpg" width="640" /></a>
<br />
<br /></div>
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<br /></div>
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The fruits are also available for sale, and it is fascinating to note,
as the growers also generously demonstrate, that the fruit can be consumed in
many ways.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
From direct consumption of the fruit to the extraction of the juice,
there is no doubt the natural sweetness of the fruit promising that relishing
taste is the main reason for its popularity.<br />
<br />
<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/10663151@N00/16674524528" title="P1260711_Fotor by AngelstarChristy, on Flickr"><img alt="P1260711_Fotor" height="427" src="https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7609/16674524528_1487bf7c2c_z.jpg" width="640" /></a>
<br />
<br /></div>
<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/10663151@N00/16674526008" title="P1260704_Fotor by AngelstarChristy, on Flickr"><img alt="P1260704_Fotor" height="427" src="https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7602/16674526008_460d244d72_z.jpg" width="640" /></a>
<br />
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<br /></div>
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There are two types; with the colors of the flesh being the key
difference, mainly the white and the red, and here in this farm, they are
harvesting the version with the red flesh.</div>
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The red is the more popular version, due to the sweetness but the white
flesh is the one believed to provide the health benefits.</div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
Fresh dragon fruits, and the flesh was excitably fresh and bursting
with sweetness.</div>
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<br /></div>
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Fresh consumed just like that, where they generously allow rounds of
sampling, the fruits are sold by weight or based on the general bulk by their
stated price.</div>
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It was quite reasonably priced and freshness is guaranteed when you buy
straight from the farm.</div>
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<br /></div>
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Enjoy the freshly made juices, or even take a swig at the ice sticks made
with the fruits themselves.<br />
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/10663151@N00/16860964722" title="P1260708_Fotor by AngelstarChristy, on Flickr"><img alt="P1260708_Fotor" height="640" src="https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7283/16860964722_8665793101_z.jpg" width="427" /></a>
</div>
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<br /></div>
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There is no doubt that this is indeed a very popular fruit; not just
for its flesh and health benefits but also for the enjoyable tastes and its
color have also made its way into the natural coloring ingredients to substitute
the artificial coloring.<br />
<br /></div>
<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/10663151@N00/16862120745" title="P1260716_Fotor by AngelstarChristy, on Flickr"><img alt="P1260716_Fotor" height="427" src="https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7631/16862120745_b4851dc47c_z.jpg" width="640" /></a>
<br />
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<b><u>Gano Farm</u></b> is also another of our stop; introducing the various types of
mushrooms.<br />
<br /></div>
<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/10663151@N00/16836232296" title="P1260774_Fotor by AngelstarChristy, on Flickr"><img alt="P1260774_Fotor" height="427" src="https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7605/16836232296_59efc5646e_z.jpg" width="640" /></a>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<br />
<b><u>A Visit to a Potato Chips Factory</u></b><br />
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
The making of plant-based chips </div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<br /></div>
<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/10663151@N00/16654816187" title="P1260735_Fotor by AngelstarChristy, on Flickr"><img alt="P1260735_Fotor" height="427" src="https://farm9.staticflickr.com/8657/16654816187_e531189cac_z.jpg" width="640" /></a>
<br />
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<u><b>Fish-based products</b></u> are definitely familiar grounds for the local
traders, and one can easily find a shop lot functioning as a mini factory,
arduously processing the sea products into fish balls, fish paste and other
fish-based products.<br />
<br /></div>
<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/10663151@N00/16860957622" title="P1260746_Fotor by AngelstarChristy, on Flickr"><img alt="P1260746_Fotor" height="427" src="https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7642/16860957622_82bc273a6a_z.jpg" width="640" /></a>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
(Tanjung Sepat boasts of their locally handmade fish balls and fish
pastes, which are proudly fresh and springy in that bouncy texture, perfect for
fish ball lovers ).<br />
<br />
<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/10663151@N00/16242143793" title="P1260748_Fotor by AngelstarChristy, on Flickr"><img alt="P1260748_Fotor" height="427" src="https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7605/16242143793_8f717211aa_z.jpg" width="640" /></a>
<br />
<br /></div>
<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/10663151@N00/16239748734" title="P1260751_Fotor by AngelstarChristy, on Flickr"><img alt="P1260751_Fotor" height="427" src="https://farm9.staticflickr.com/8709/16239748734_578a5b28e8_z.jpg" width="640" /></a>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
A side visit to a <b><u>small home coffee trader </u></b>taught us a little bit on
the coffee beans and also the art of making coffee. There is even an old-fashioned
coffee making machine to be found in the home.<br />
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/10663151@N00/16674707560" title="P1260814_Fotor by AngelstarChristy, on Flickr"><img alt="P1260814_Fotor" height="640" src="https://farm9.staticflickr.com/8755/16674707560_ca6d8c94ec_z.jpg" width="480" /></a><br />
<br />
<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/10663151@N00/16239735704" title="P1260818_Fotor by AngelstarChristy, on Flickr"><img alt="P1260818_Fotor" height="480" src="https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7590/16239735704_3fb631fae8_z.jpg" width="640" /></a>
<br />
<br />
<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/10663151@N00/16242130253" title="P1260817_Fotor by AngelstarChristy, on Flickr"><img alt="P1260817_Fotor" height="480" src="https://farm9.staticflickr.com/8612/16242130253_c5df00668f_z.jpg" width="640" /></a>
While perhaps irrelevant to the core of the town, it was still an
interesting side visit.<br />
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
Enjoy lunch at one of the<b> seafood restaurants</b>, or even dinner, if you
would like to stay until later in the evening.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/10663151@N00/16861067411" title="P1260798_Fotor by AngelstarChristy, on Flickr"><img alt="P1260798_Fotor" height="309" src="https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7651/16861067411_7c3cb44735_z.jpg" width="640" /></a>
I was not particularly intrigued with the seafood, which I personally
have tasted better elsewhere in other seafood-famed states or towns.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
One simply should not leave without a visit, or even taking away the<b><u>
famous pau</u></b> (steamed buns stuffed with filling of pork, sweet red bean or lotus
paste) and watch the pau-making process from that tiny glass window.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/10663151@N00/16654798797" title="P1260830_Fotor by AngelstarChristy, on Flickr"><img alt="P1260830_Fotor" height="480" src="https://farm9.staticflickr.com/8565/16654798797_dbde26ea29_z.jpg" width="640" /></a>
The small size of the shop is not to be belittled for the pau business
is massive and incoming orders kept the bun makers busy throughout the day.<br />
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/10663151@N00/16242128513" title="P1260828_Fotor by AngelstarChristy, on Flickr"><img alt="P1260828_Fotor" height="480" src="https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7619/16242128513_291bbc79ed_z.jpg" width="640" /></a>
(It is advised to place your order early and collect them before you
leave the town, or risk the long queues or even disappointment of the
unavailability of the buns at the end of the day when they are all sold out).</div>
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A few things I may not have covered in my trip, which included the
famous <b>Tanjung Sepat Lovers’ Bridge</b> which was dangerous in its state and at the
risk of falling down (which it did after that – read <a href="http://www.thestar.com.my/News/Nation/2013/06/26/Lovers-jetty-collapses/" target="_blank"><b>here</b></a>, thus the reason for
it being closed off to public at my time of visit)</div>
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I have also missed out on the Seafood Steamboat and the Seafood Bak Kut
The (usually served with pork), but I guess that would warrant another visit?</div>
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In a nutshell, it is just an ambitious task of a day but Tanjung Sepat
is definitely one gem of a fishing town fast growing in its popularity in the
tourism segment, attracting local visitors from the cities and other states,
with its humble offerings and hidden treasures proudly displayed for all to
enjoy.</div>
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All in just One Day, and one can momentarily take one’s mind off the
hustle bustle of the city!</div>
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<br />Christina Kimhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11812903022397709758noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5867444051122615720.post-72132052920289147392015-02-23T03:39:00.000-08:002015-02-23T03:42:46.796-08:00Rasa Sayang Resort and Spa Penang: Rasa Premier Room (A Hotel by Shangri La)<br />
<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/10663151@N00/16616667111" title="P1380065_Fotor by AngelstarChristy, on Flickr"><img alt="P1380065_Fotor" height="427" src="https://farm9.staticflickr.com/8630/16616667111_70135e09fd_o.jpg" width="640" /></a>
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The name <b>Rasa Sayang</b> is not unfamiliar to most Penangites, as it is one of the most, or rather, the most luxurious and highly rated lavish hotel on the island known as the Pearl of the Orient.<br />
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Located along the winding coastal road of <b>Batu Ferringhi</b>, this hotel has indeed stood the test of time with its existence since the early days and continue to strive to uplift its reputation.<br />
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<b>Rasa Sayang</b> is dear to the hearts of most tourists who love the island, and even to the locals, this is the pride of the island, with its beautiful landscape and the modest opulence yet maintaining the grandeur of this warm residence landmark which never fails to court many, including the locals themselves into its embrace.<br />
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Since undergoing a major facelift over the past few years (or decade), the hotel continues to shine as the local favorite landmark of class and luxury, and has even upgraded its facilities/grounds to invite their guests to indulge in their resort lifestyle and comfortable spa facilities designed to free their guests of the daily stress and bustle of their routines.<br />
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Named after one of the local favorite folk song so dear to the Malaysians' hearts, Rasa Sayang means "the feeling of love" and it is exactly this that the resort aims to achieve; to make their guests feel comfortable and loved during their stay.<br />
From hotel to resort, <b>Rasa Sayang Resort and Spa</b> vows to fulfill the expectations of their guests to make them enjoy every moment of their stay, and to make them feel just like they would in the comforts of their home.<br />
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I have known this place since I was a kid, and it is definitely also a place dear to my heart. I loved to see that the efforts made by the management to uphold their standards and name, and that they remain as one of the most loved hotels/resorts on the island.<br />
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Sometimes it may seem weird that locals would book into a resident hotel; when they reside on the island themselves but it is a thing in the past as people are more experimental these days.<br />
Also, what could be better than experiencing one's loved culture than to start with one's own background to be better spokesperson for one's hometown?<br />
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Furthermore, it is good to boost our own economy or tourism at the same time, especially with the rising costs of living these days.<br />
Many may not be able to have the luxury to travel overseas for a vacation; perhaps due to financial, or the more logical is due to the logistics and work where they may not be able to go on a long escape and sometimes a weekend away is all they could come up with.<br />
Local indulgence in a nearby resort could sometimes be the solution.<br />
Also a resort like this, can even make one forget they are in the comforts of their backyard and just so close to home as the feeling is so much like being overseas yet enjoying the warm hospitality of home.<br />
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<b>Rasa Sayang Resort and Spa</b> was on my weekend list for getaway recently, having been there for a quiet and simple celebration with my hubby.<br />
This is definitely not a paid review, nor an invited one as it was purely a personal visit and to check in for relaxation.<br />
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I was in for a pleasant experience, in fact, I enjoyed my stay so much that I almost forgot to take photos of most of my experiences.<br />
(It shows how much of a vacation I truly need *grins sheepishly*)<br />
At the same time, I was also in between being sick; a major virus which really bugged me for more than a month.<br />
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There are two wings in the resort; the <b><u>Rasa Wing</u></b> and the <b><u>Garden Wing</u></b>.<br />
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The <b>Garden Wing</b> has been recently refurbished and offers families a great view of the natural greenery of the gardens, pool and even the sea, as its name suggests.<br />
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The <b>Rasa Wing</b>, is a more private and exclusive part of the resort, offering more privacy to the guests on the other side of the resort.<br />
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<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/10663151@N00/16621010971" title="16306288166_7e15eaef1f_o_Fotor by AngelstarChristy, on Flickr"><img alt="16306288166_7e15eaef1f_o_Fotor" height="480" src="https://farm9.staticflickr.com/8579/16621010971_a882619b73_o.jpg" width="640" /></a><br />
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There is another lobby for the <b>Rasa Wing</b> guests to check into, and welcome drinks will be provided upon arrival; a <b><u>glass of refreshing nutmeg juice</u></b> (a true symbol of Penang's favorite local produce).<br />
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The rooms in the <b>Rasa Wing</b> are more spacious; designed for the guests' comfort in mind and also privacy.<br />
Guests in this wing are entitled to their own swimming pools in the wing too; which is restricted to mostly adults and above young adults above 16 years of age. They can also access the pool in the <b>Garden Wing</b> which is accessible to everyone including children.<br />
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The ambience in the <b>Rasa Wing</b> is maintained well; minimizing interruption and disturbances to ensure the comfort of the guests.<br />
Children are required to be under the supervision of their parents/adults at all times for their safety as well.<br />
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The rooms in <b><u>Rasa Wing</u></b> are categorized into the following:-<br />
<b>Rasa Superior</b><br />
<b>Rasa Deluxe</b><br />
<b>Rasa Premier</b><br />
<b>Rasa Deluxe Suite</b><br />
<b>Rasa Premier Suite</b><br />
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There are sometimes seasonal promotional offers for these rooms, and there can be upgrades too.<br />
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I had the luxury to try out the <b><u>Rasa Premier </u></b>room; and I was truly spoilt to the very core, I mean, pampered with the luxuries of the space and the comfortable settings with all the complete amenities and facilities that I might as well have left all my toiletries back home.<br />
(Technically speaking, I could still drive back to get some of my stuffs which I had forgotten, but <b>Rasa Sayang</b> just did not give me any reason to).<br />
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<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/10663151@N00/16617804115" title="P1380025_Fotor by AngelstarChristy, on Flickr"><img alt="P1380025_Fotor" height="427" src="https://farm9.staticflickr.com/8659/16617804115_087fd4446c_o.jpg" width="640" /></a>
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<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/10663151@N00/16591835766" title="P1380067_Fotor by AngelstarChristy, on Flickr"><img alt="P1380067_Fotor" height="427" src="https://farm9.staticflickr.com/8614/16591835766_e08b9f35da_o.jpg" width="640" /></a>
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The <b>King Size bed</b> set up in the room was definitely welcoming and makes one struggle to get out of bed in the morning, even for someone like me, who is always excited to wake up early in the morning.<br />
There is the turndown service and bedroom slippers will be prepared when guests go out for dinner, all compliments to the hotel staff who will go to make the effort to make sure that one can have a good rest when they are back from their dinner.<br />
Water bottles will also be prepared beside the table; it is such a thoughtful effort from the hotel!<br />
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There is also a <b><u>welcoming Fruits platter </u></b>on the coffee table for the guests upon check-in, and while I thought this was only the first day, the resort surprised me by refilling it ever single day!<br />
I love that they are taking such care of my well-being by stuffing with fruits, an act of kindness which I definitely appreciate :-)<br />
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<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/10663151@N00/16616675951" title="P1380031_Fotor by AngelstarChristy, on Flickr"><img alt="P1380031_Fotor" height="427" src="https://farm9.staticflickr.com/8675/16616675951_36c601398b_o.jpg" width="640" /></a>
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The bathroom is another captivating factor, especially for me, for I personally adore large spaces for bathrooms. Okay, I can still deal with small bathrooms but the space, oh the space, leaves so much for one to even dance while brushing teeth, washing face or even in shower!<br />
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<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/10663151@N00/16432014579" title="P1380019_Fotor by AngelstarChristy, on Flickr"><img alt="P1380019_Fotor" height="427" src="https://farm9.staticflickr.com/8617/16432014579_d48d5989a0_o.jpg" width="640" /></a>
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There is an automated sliding blind for the privacy while at the same time, offering that open concept to view the bathroom from the bed. It is truly a bold and romantic insight encapsulated within the premier room.<br />
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The spacious shower room; complete with three types, yes, you read that right, <b>Three Types</b> of shower to ensure that enjoyable shower experience.<br />
It makes one reluctant to step away from the shower room, honestly, can they spoil us any further?<br />
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<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/10663151@N00/16430616588" title="P1380051_Fotor by AngelstarChristy, on Flickr"><img alt="P1380051_Fotor" height="427" src="https://farm9.staticflickr.com/8617/16430616588_8297b9a7d7_o.jpg" width="640" /></a>
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Towels are in ample supply, and there are so much space for storage and they were so thoughtful to even put a bench on the other side of the hand shower area.<br />
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<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/10663151@N00/16410517017" title="P1380052_Fotor by AngelstarChristy, on Flickr"><img alt="P1380052_Fotor" height="427" src="https://farm9.staticflickr.com/8650/16410517017_2b32a64cab_o.jpg" width="640" /></a>
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Rain showers are always welcoming and refreshing if you really want to get one good soaking shower!<br />
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<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/10663151@N00/15998058003" title="P1380023_Fotor by AngelstarChristy, on Flickr"><img alt="P1380023_Fotor" height="640" src="https://farm9.staticflickr.com/8583/15998058003_2dc602a561_o.jpg" width="426" /></a>
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Toiletries are all carefully placed with much thought within the reach while one is in the shower room, and strategically located too.<br />
There is still space left for the guests' own toiletries too, if one is not much into the idea of using other types of toiletries and more comfortable with their own.<br />
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<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/10663151@N00/16430621978" title="P1380021_Fotor by AngelstarChristy, on Flickr"><img alt="P1380021_Fotor" height="427" src="https://farm9.staticflickr.com/8624/16430621978_9f9dcea640_o.jpg" width="640" /></a><br />
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Toothbrushes, comb, shaver, shower cap, cotton buds and pads, and even hair band is provided.<br />
Is there anything else we need from home?<br />
Of course, ladies definitely need their own bag of skincare products, but they have gotten the basics covered.<br />
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<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/10663151@N00/16430796020" title="P1380020_Fotor by AngelstarChristy, on Flickr"><img alt="P1380020_Fotor" height="640" src="https://farm9.staticflickr.com/8652/16430796020_23792bdc35_o.jpg" width="425" /></a></div>
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Dressing room/area is well-designed and located adjacent, or directly facing the bathroom.<br />
There is again that spacious area and also the area is designed to be within its own privacy, clearly set apart from the rest of the room for one to dress up and get ready.<br />
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<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/10663151@N00/15998055403" title="P1380036_Fotor by AngelstarChristy, on Flickr"><img alt="P1380036_Fotor" height="640" src="https://farm9.staticflickr.com/8635/15998055403_8c0101a445_o.jpg" width="426" /></a>
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Lizard-motifs on the handles of the wardrobe and drawers rule the theme of most of the furniture in the room.</div>
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<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/10663151@N00/16410522097" title="P1380038_Fotor by AngelstarChristy, on Flickr"><img alt="P1380038_Fotor" height="640" src="https://farm9.staticflickr.com/8591/16410522097_64ff2c059d_o.jpg" width="426" /></a></div>
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Fridge and Kitchen cabinet area</div>
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<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/10663151@N00/16430619778" title="P1380029_Fotor by AngelstarChristy, on Flickr"><img alt="P1380029_Fotor" height="640" src="https://farm9.staticflickr.com/8669/16430619778_ec1cd20d92_o.jpg" width="426" /></a><br />
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We definitely know the concept or meaning of the Tudung Saji, for its Malaysian roots but this is a good concept to introduce some of our local stuffs/trademarks to the visiting tourists.</div>
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A thoughtful idea, again, from the resort to promote the local culture to non-Malaysians.</div>
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<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/10663151@N00/16410523947" title="P1380027_Fotor by AngelstarChristy, on Flickr"><img alt="P1380027_Fotor" height="640" src="https://farm9.staticflickr.com/8640/16410523947_f562e42b37_o.jpg" width="426" /></a>
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Complimentary drinks and snacks stocked in the fridge for the guests, but non-refillable.</div>
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Still this is rather a rare gesture from our hotels, and I am sure most guests would welcome it especially when they wake up hungry at night.</div>
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<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/10663151@N00/16617803005" title="P1380030_Fotor by AngelstarChristy, on Flickr"><img alt="P1380030_Fotor" height="640" src="https://farm9.staticflickr.com/8669/16617803005_6104cb6299_o.jpg" width="426" /></a></div>
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Another interesting gesture from the resort is the use of glass bottles for the drinking water, an act to conserve the nature by recycling these bottles rather than the throwing away plastic bottles, which could amount to millions in a year.</div>
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I love this idea, and the bottles too!</div>
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I applaud the resort for going to such lengths to promote and give back to the nature.</div>
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<b><u>Note: </u></b>Please do not bring these bottles home, cute and attractive as they are, for that would destroy the purpose of the conservation the resort is trying to promote.</div>
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<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/10663151@N00/16617803795" title="P1380028_Fotor by AngelstarChristy, on Flickr"><img alt="P1380028_Fotor" height="640" src="https://farm9.staticflickr.com/8606/16617803795_074521e5f4_o.jpg" width="426" /></a>
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A mini kitchen cabinet to store the mugs, drinking classes, coasters and spoons and again, there is still space for one to store additional stuffs.</div>
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<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/10663151@N00/16432003359" title="P1380071_Fotor by AngelstarChristy, on Flickr"><img alt="P1380071_Fotor" height="427" src="https://farm9.staticflickr.com/8658/16432003359_c1f901ab63_o.jpg" width="640" /></a><br />
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There is also a large working desk with a wall-mounted adjustable LCD television, which can be oriented to face the bed and one can snuggle into the bed while enjoying their movies.<br />
For the <b>Rasa Premier</b> room guests, there is also the complimentary request of movie DVDs from the concierge (based on selected titles) for viewing in the room.<br />
The working desk is also equipped with stationery for the working executives, or those who simply have to work during their vacation *winks*<br />
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<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/10663151@N00/16591838946" title="P1380059_Fotor by AngelstarChristy, on Flickr"><img alt="P1380059_Fotor" height="427" src="https://farm9.staticflickr.com/8619/16591838946_67e8b1e285_o.jpg" width="640" /></a>
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If you are not blown away by the space and the facilities yet, there is still more, for the Rasa Premier room has its own outdoor bathtub and a spa bath can be set up at the guest's request for only a minimal fee.<br />
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The private balcony and the bath is the answer to blissful indulgence while on vacation.<br />
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<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/10663151@N00/16430786490" title="P1380061_Fotor by AngelstarChristy, on Flickr"><img alt="P1380061_Fotor" height="427" src="https://farm9.staticflickr.com/8633/16430786490_6d077fbf03_o.jpg" width="640" /></a>
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The room is not the only one with the space as the balcony is also offering a generous width for one to wander around while enjoying the serene scenery from the comforts of their room.<br />
A comfortable couch is also available for one to relax in, overlooking the gardens.<br />
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<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/10663151@N00/16616667111" title="P1380065_Fotor by AngelstarChristy, on Flickr"><img alt="P1380065_Fotor" height="427" src="https://farm9.staticflickr.com/8630/16616667111_70135e09fd_o.jpg" width="640" /></a>
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There is also a dining table set on the balcony, for couples to enjoy dining or just chatting by the balcony.<br />
A romantic dinner setting in the room can also be prepared on the balcony upon request.<br />
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<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/10663151@N00/16430611038" title="P1380063_Fotor by AngelstarChristy, on Flickr"><img alt="P1380063_Fotor" height="427" src="https://farm9.staticflickr.com/8634/16430611038_584110b666_o.jpg" width="640" /></a>
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<b>Rasa Wing</b> guests are privileged to enjoy multiple meals in a day, just like the <b>Garden wing</b> as well as <b>Rasa Sayang Resort and Spa</b> ensures that none of their guests would be left starving throughout their stay.<br />
There is no time to worry or watch one's waist, though they have the gym for that reason, and the swimming pool and an assortment of physical outdoor activities.<br />
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From the welcoming drinks to the fruits platter in the room, <b>Rasa Wing</b> guests are also entitled to the <b><u>pre-dinner cocktail</u></b> treats which allows guests to indulge in a <i>free flow of alcoholic cocktails, wines (red, white and sparkling/bubbly) and even juices, coffee and tea</i>, along with an <i>array of canapés or finger bites.</i><br />
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<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/10663151@N00/16621480462" title="16331364282_1d3f3bfd34_o_Fotor by AngelstarChristy, on Flickr"><img alt="16331364282_1d3f3bfd34_o_Fotor" height="640" src="https://farm9.staticflickr.com/8632/16621480462_e108a88dc4_o.jpg" width="480" /></a> </div>
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<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/10663151@N00/16002370543" title="16331364432_c4c573a3df_o_Fotor by AngelstarChristy, on Flickr"><img alt="16331364432_c4c573a3df_o_Fotor" height="640" src="https://farm9.staticflickr.com/8660/16002370543_b3469e807a_o.jpg" width="480" /></a> </div>
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Available from <b><u>5.30pm - 7.00pm</u></b>, this is bound to attract most of the guests in this wing for it is a nice time to relax in the <b>Rasa Lounge</b> while waiting for dinner.</div>
The <b>Rasa Lounge</b> is only accessible to the <b>Rasa Wing</b> guests; complimentary and a dress code is also required where <u>guests are requested to be in smart casuals while in the lounge</u>.<br />
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The Rasa Lounge also offers <b><i>c</i></b><i><b>omplimentary non-alcoholic beverages throughout the day; starting from 7am - 11pm.</b></i><br />
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<b>Afternoon tea</b> is also available; complimentary to Rasa Wing guests from <b><u>3pm-4pm</u></b>, with offerings of mouth watering pastries, cakes and sandwiches to tempt the guests' palates.<br />
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This is indeed indulgence at its peak, and the generous assortment of food is bound to stuff anyone to the fullest, leaving little space for dinner or any other meal after that.</div>
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I am a fan of afternoon teas, in that English garden setting and <b>Rasa Sayang Resort and Spa </b>just nailed the perfect afternoon tea right on the spot.</div>
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I enjoyed my tea, just like a tai tai would :-)</div>
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There are also free access to a wide selection of magazines and books for guests to browse through while relaxing in the <b>Rasa Lounge</b>, and one can definitely sit back and just will the time away with the quiet and peaceful settings in the afternoon or throughout the day.</div>
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Guests at the resort can enjoy complimentary buffet breakfast (International theme) daily at the <b>Spice Market Cafe</b>, and <b>Rasa Wing guests</b> are offered <b>another option to have their breakfast</b> within the more private and exclusive settings of the fine dining restaurant of <u style="font-weight: bold;">Ferringhi Grill; </u>which offers a semi-buffet and also ready to cook breakfast menu (preset) upon request.</div>
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Enjoy the serenity and quieter ambience in <b>Ferringhi Grill</b> one day, and also the merry surroundings and wider selection of the buffet at <b>Spice Market Cafe</b> on another.</div>
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<b><i>Breakfast in Ferringhi Grill is a private and exclusive affair.</i></b><br />
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<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/10663151@N00/16596159736" title="15709818824_6d4bc44cbd_o_Fotor by AngelstarChristy, on Flickr"><img alt="15709818824_6d4bc44cbd_o_Fotor" height="640" src="https://farm9.staticflickr.com/8641/16596159736_fe7270d41d_o.jpg" width="479" /></a></div>
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My personal experience is only based on <b>Rasa Wing</b>, and the <b>Premier Room</b> in which I stayed on my visit and enjoyed tremendously.</div>
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It feels so much at home, and yet truly pampering that I almost did not want to leave.</div>
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I enjoyed my much-needed rest and <b><u>Rasa Sayang Resort and Spa</u></b> definitely went to great lengths to spoil their guests and ensure that peace and relaxing environment.</div>
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I am sure this will not be my last time visiting them, and perhaps the next time I could try out the <b>Garden Wing</b>?</div>
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I had a memorable experience and am proud of my <b>Malaysian</b>, and also <b>Penang hospitality</b> delivered by this award-winning and luxurious resort.</div>
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It made me lose track momentarily that I was actually still in my own country!</div>
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<b><i>It is truly a stay to remember, and I look forward to my next visit here!</i></b></div>
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<b>**This is NOT a sponsored post, and it is based on my personal experience**</b></div>
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Christina Kimhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11812903022397709758noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5867444051122615720.post-91893621942386945242015-02-10T04:09:00.003-08:002015-10-13T06:08:45.894-07:00Enjoying (non) lobster meal at Red Lobster (Chandler)One of the interesting news I have heard since last year is the upcoming closure of <b><u>Red Lobster </u></b>restaurant, an American chain specializing in the crustacean sector, obviously mentioned in the naming of the restaurant itself.<br />
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<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/10663151@N00/15948846235" title="P1300762_Fotor by AngelstarChristy, on Flickr"><img alt="P1300762_Fotor" height="360" src="https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7504/15948846235_2a98c317cc_o.jpg" width="640" /></a><br />
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It brought back to mind my very own experience at <b><u>Red Lobster</u></b>, a year or so ago in the <b>Chandler</b> outlet. I was there for a simple lunch while on a short trip to that part of the country.<br />
<b><u>Red Lobster</u></b>, named after the core business as the crustacean specialist, has more than 700 outlets all over the world, originating from <b>Orlando, Florida</b>.<br />
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Originally started by two entrepreneurs, <i>Bill Darden and Charley Woodsby,</i> in 1968, the restaurant became one of the local names offering seafood in its casual-themed dining environment and quickly grew in its operations, shortly after garnering the attention and interests of the locals in the 1980s.<br />
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Late last year (2014), there were rumors spreading around that Red Lobster is on its way to cease operations which was quickly clarified to be false as Red Lobster was merely acquired by the <b>Golden Gate Capital</b>, taking over from the <b>Darden Restaurants</b> in July.<br />
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Indeed it was good news to hear that this seafood-themed restaurant is not closing down, and the fact that they have even extended their outlets to my part of the country (which I have yet to try for myself).<br />
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My love for seafood is well-satisfied by the menu offering in Red Lobster and it is definitely one of personal favorites to fulfill that seafood persona in me.<br />
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<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/10663151@N00/15946888841" title="P1300725_Fotor by AngelstarChristy, on Flickr"><img alt="P1300725_Fotor" height="360" src="https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7572/15946888841_e4395c33b8_o.jpg" width="640" /></a><br />
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The aromatic and buttery soft crusted bun served straight from the oven was the right start to give off an impression for diners, tempting the palates and there is no way to resist this as its fragrant aroma just seduces your senses and turn away as you might, you just might give in to take that little bite.<br />
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<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/10663151@N00/15761432028" title="P1300744_Fotor by AngelstarChristy, on Flickr"><img alt="P1300744_Fotor" height="360" src="https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7524/15761432028_25dd23d6c4_o.jpg" width="640" /></a><br />
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Enjoyed a lovely Peach Smoothie to chill myself against the hot weather of Arizona<br />
I have always loved peaches, and the flavor of this exquisite fruit just soothe and comforts my soul, and I loved that there is that little strawberry sticking beside my drink along with a slice of lemon, all making up an awesome combination of a drink!<br />
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<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/10663151@N00/15761432178" title="P1300742_Fotor by AngelstarChristy, on Flickr"><img alt="P1300742_Fotor" height="640" src="https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7546/15761432178_aea6fa7e8a_o.jpg" width="360" /></a>
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<b><u>Oven-broiled Wild Caught Flounder</u></b> with broccoli and wild rice pilaf as sides.<br />
I simply had to have fish, especially when it's claimed to be fresh catch, no offense to the lobsters and this convinced that I still made the right choice.<br />
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<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/10663151@N00/15326575234" title="P1300759_Fotor by AngelstarChristy, on Flickr"><img alt="P1300759_Fotor" height="360" src="https://farm9.staticflickr.com/8606/15326575234_0bc44ec27e_o.jpg" width="640" /></a><br />
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Averagely sliced and the freshness from the oven maintained the tender juicy fillet of the fish and the broccoli was lightly broiled where the crunch of the florets are just right to my liking.<br />
Wild rice pilaf is an interesting addition, and has that unique taste of a combination of flavors to complement the fish.<br />
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Fish Tacos, I can't remember the actual name of the dish anymore was a generous serving which can serve two definitely!<br />
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<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/10663151@N00/15761431158" title="P1300757_Fotor by AngelstarChristy, on Flickr"><img alt="P1300757_Fotor" height="360" src="https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7570/15761431158_c3e77b86f5_o.jpg" width="640" /></a>
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<b><u>Caesar's Salad</u></b> was quite simple, nothing much to rave about as we just wanted some greens for our meal.<br />
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<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/10663151@N00/15923055866" title="P1300755_Fotor by AngelstarChristy, on Flickr"><img alt="P1300755_Fotor" height="360" src="https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7577/15923055866_83512ccf92_o.jpg" width="640" /></a>
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The star of the meal is definitely this <b><u>Sweet Chili Shrimps</u></b>, which was wickedly appetizing with its sweet sauce enveloping the scrumptious and crunchy fresh and hand-battered shrimps.<br />
This is a generous serving as well, and while it is meant to be a starter, we loved it so much that we took our time to relish every bite, or shrimp.<br />
It is really, finger-licking good and the zesty taste of the sauce was not just great company to the shrimps but also the neatly shredded lettuce leaves forming the bed for the shrimps to rest upon.<br />
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<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/10663151@N00/15923056076" title="P1300753_Fotor by AngelstarChristy, on Flickr"><img alt="P1300753_Fotor" height="360" src="https://farm9.staticflickr.com/8624/15923056076_9c17372ddf_o.jpg" width="640" /></a>
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I have fallen for the ravishing beauty and flavorful tastes of these shrimps that I could even relive the tastes as though it is still nestled against my taste buds as I stare at these photos.<br />
Yes, that is how obsessed I am with this dish and it just officially instigated my interest and craving for shrimps suddenly!<br />
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While lobsters may be the theme of the restaurant and I did not try any on my visit, I am looking forward to return, especially when they have clarified that they are not closing down anyway.<br />
I will wait patiently to return to their original outlets in their home country, but at the same time, I heard that they are already operating in my country.<br />
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<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/10663151@N00/15329218763" title="P1300761_Fotor by AngelstarChristy, on Flickr"><img alt="P1300761_Fotor" height="640" src="https://farm9.staticflickr.com/8616/15329218763_a6e1da9572_o.jpg" width="360" /></a></div>
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It is definitely time to pay my own local outlets of this American casual dining chain in Malaysia, like, really soon?<br />
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<br />Christina Kimhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11812903022397709758noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5867444051122615720.post-3126366609353338462015-02-10T02:31:00.002-08:002015-10-13T06:08:29.972-07:00Wonders of Grand Canyon <a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/10663151@N00/15948128882" title="P1300518_Fotor by AngelstarChristy, on Flickr"><img alt="P1300518_Fotor" height="360" src="https://farm9.staticflickr.com/8611/15948128882_a20fd57c15_o.jpg" width="640" /></a>
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A natural landmark that fills me with awe, backed by its astounding history
dating back to almost 20 million years of geological changes and processes to
its amazing and breathtaking formation today.</div>
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<b><u>Grand Canyon</u></b> is aptly named, and lived up to the glory of its given
adjective description, or more, for this is one sight to impress, with the splendor
and beauty of the carefully crafted landscape and all entirely works of nature.
It does seem its grandeur in physique is paled with just one single adjective
to describe its wonder.<br />
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<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/10663151@N00/15946834811" title="P1300523_Fotor by AngelstarChristy, on Flickr"><img alt="P1300523_Fotor" height="360" src="https://farm9.staticflickr.com/8571/15946834811_f5d715362e_o.jpg" width="640" /></a>
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It is impossible not to be captivated or be entranced by the impressive
sight when one stands and take in the scene, and everyone who has been to the
<b><u>Grand Canyon National Park</u></b> to witness the amazing Grand Canyon can attest to
that, and the list is endless.</div>
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Even P<b>resident Theodore Roosevelt</b> was taken by awe, an impression
further strengthened by his words quoted, when he visited the site in year
1903.</div>
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<span class="apple-converted-space"><span style="background: white; color: #252525; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 10.5pt;"> </span></span><span style="background: white; color: #252525; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 10.5pt;">"<i>The Grand Canyon fills me with awe. It is beyond
comparison—beyond description; absolutely unparalleled throughout the wide
world... Let this great wonder of nature remain as it now is. Do nothing to mar
its grandeur, sublimity and loveliness. You cannot improve on it. But what you
can do is to keep it for your children, your children's children, and all who
come after you, as the one great sight which every American should see.</i>"</span><o:p></o:p></div>
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Grand Canyon owes her attractive attributes to
the <b>Colorado River</b> and the elevation of the <b>Colorado Plateau</b>, a process which
took millions of years with the many branches of streams stemming from the main
Colorado River penetrating and slicing the channels across the plateau by the
layers. The activity occurred in continuity and slowly led to the formation of
the natural shape of the boulders evidently displayed in the enthralling
landscape of the canyon.<o:p></o:p></div>
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The technicalities of the formation and the
scientific facts of the Grand Canyon is an interesting read, with most of the
elements associated with the field of geology, and one can even take a tour in
the <b><u>Grand Canyon Visitor Center</u></b> located at the <b>South Rim</b> of the canyon where
large boards display the facts and stories behind the Grand Canyon in a
detailed and interactive manner.<o:p></o:p><br />
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<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/10663151@N00/15326523084" title="P1300509_Fotor by AngelstarChristy, on Flickr"><img alt="P1300509_Fotor" height="360" src="https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7471/15326523084_4531b13d33_o.jpg" width="640" /></a>
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(Inside the Grand Canyon Visitor Center)<br />
<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/10663151@N00/15948129342" title="P1300514_Fotor by AngelstarChristy, on Flickr"><img alt="P1300514_Fotor" height="360" src="https://farm9.staticflickr.com/8648/15948129342_4b4cc1be9a_o.jpg" width="640" /></a>
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While the <b>Grand Canyon </b>can be viewed from its
North and South Rim, it is the latter which is brimming with activity and
provides one of the more spectacular views of the canyon, and the former is a
much quieter zone, though it can still be accessed by the <b>Arizona State Route
167</b>.<o:p></o:p></div>
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The South Rim is popular probably due to the
establishment of the <b><u>Grand Canyon National Park</u></b>, which drew most of the
visitors and geology enthusiasts to the site with the availability of
accessibility and resources (or view) of the Grand Canyon.<o:p></o:p><br />
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<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/10663151@N00/15763058977" title="P1300569_Fotor by AngelstarChristy, on Flickr"><img alt="P1300569_Fotor" height="360" src="https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7582/15763058977_eace13d8f9_o.jpg" width="640" /></a>
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The technicalities behind the entire story of the
canyon’s formation could take more than a simple post to describe, and I may
not be the best expert to explain but simply put, if one is imagining or
wondering the sight of a canyon, just think of a super sized basin or a bowl.<o:p></o:p></div>
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It is basically a river basin; which is formed by
continuous processes of erosion.<o:p></o:p></div>
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Think of the water, flowing from streams, gently
touching the rocks as it flows, and as time goes by, it erodes (practically
lightly ‘eating’ away at the surface of the rocks, causing some parts to
diminish or deform). The process is not an immediate one to the naked eye, and
takes years, millions of years to create an impact, which explains the timeline
of the formation of the Grand Canyon which dates back to, and well, debated
still, to an approximate of 17 millions of years ago.<o:p></o:p></div>
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The multiple layers of the canyon are also caused
by the uplifting of the plateau, filled with dense forests and the crossing, or
intersections of multiple streams (also known as tributaries) cutting across
the rocks, gently or deliberately forming the natural shape of the walls which
appear like the side of the basin and that, forms what we term as the canyon.<o:p></o:p><br />
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The Grand Canyon is indeed a sight to behold, and
is the pride of the state of Arizona, in which it is located and no doubt, of
the United States of America as well. <o:p></o:p></div>
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The beauty and wonder of the natural landmark is so
treasured that it is under the federal responsibilities to preserve it, and as
their former President Roosevelt mentioned, “for generations to see”.<o:p></o:p></div>
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While the Grand Canyon had nestled in the heart
of the Americans long ago, it was only in 1919 that the Grand Canyon National
Park was officially established. <o:p></o:p></div>
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President Theodore Roosevelt had it in his best
interests to preserve this amazing beauty but it was years before the natural
preserve park saw daylight. Bills were submitted to create the Grand Canyon
National Park, and the park was even considered the second to the <b>Yellowstone
National Park</b> in the United States of America.<o:p></o:p></div>
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The <b>Grand Canyon National Park Act</b> was put
through and successfully approved by <b>President Woodrow Wilson</b>, and thus became
one of the most visited attractions in the nation, attracting tourists from the
nation and worldwide to witness the magnificent wonder that America stands
proudly for as it sits on their land. <o:p></o:p><br />
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Americans, and the state of <b>Arizona</b> have every
reason to be proud, for the <b>Grand Canyon National Park</b> was not only <b><u>one of the
nation’s oldest national park</u></b>, it is also recognized and announced as one of
the <b><u>UNESCO heritage sites</u></b> in the world.<o:p></o:p></div>
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If that is not enough, the Grand Canyon even
earned its spot and put on the list to be considered as one of the World’s
Natural Wonders, or famously known as the <b><u>Seven Natural Wonders of the World</u></b>.<o:p></o:p></div>
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While the list evolves with a few exceptions of
permanent residents, to be even considered to make it to the list is honorable
enough and says much about the greatness of one landmark, and for that, Grand
Canyon definitely stands tall in its might, while maintaining its dear spot in
the hearts of all the Americans.<o:p></o:p></div>
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There is no end to the praises for this amazing
landscape, and words alone do no justice to describe its breathtaking sight. <o:p></o:p></div>
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While it was said that the Grand Canyon’s scene
is at its best under the sun, where the light enhances its striking features,
the dazy weather still failed to mask the natural beauty of the canyon.<o:p></o:p></div>
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The weather was rather cool at the site;
considerably, compared to the rest of the state of Arizona (which is warmer),
partly because of its geographical location where it is slightly elevated and
located on higher grounds. <o:p></o:p></div>
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Clouds and light breeze accompanied me on the day
I was there at this amazing landmark, and it appeared that it was also the low
peak season then, possibly due to the eluding clouds which blurred the natural
colors of the canyon.<o:p></o:p></div>
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The sun acts like the natural lighting to magnify
the rich colors of the layers in the canyon, and is naturally the preferred
background when one takes in the view of the Grand Canyon, despite the heat one
has to endure.<o:p></o:p></div>
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Pro and con definitely, but I can still attest to
the fact, that the stunning view of the Grand Canyon is unfazed by the misty
state, as my jaw still dropped (literally) when I had my first peek of the
canyon as I stood at the edge of the viewpoint.<o:p></o:p><br />
<br />
<br /></div>
<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/10663151@N00/15761491840" title="P1300560_Fotor by AngelstarChristy, on Flickr"><img alt="P1300560_Fotor" height="360" src="https://farm9.staticflickr.com/8660/15761491840_668b26eb7f_o.jpg" width="640" /></a>
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The image of the Grand Canyon, packed with the complexity
and beautifully carved child canyons amalgamated with the depth, size and the
colors contributed by the varieties of rocks sitting on layers (they were
believed to date even back to the Precambrian times), definitely sticks in one’s
mind and perhaps, I would say, secures a permanent position in one’s memory for
life.<o:p></o:p></div>
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At least, I would say that for myself.<o:p></o:p><br />
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<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/10663151@N00/15946833341" title="P1300553_Fotor by AngelstarChristy, on Flickr"><img alt="P1300553_Fotor" height="360" src="https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7557/15946833341_85d8eefccc_o.jpg" width="640" /></a>
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This is definitely deserving of one of the
wonders of the world, and I definitely would call for it to be preserved though
I am sure it is pretty safe in the hands of the nation, and furthermore, <b>UNESCO</b>
has definitely spoken with the granting of the heritage title.<o:p></o:p></div>
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President Theodore Roosevelt, you have definitely
spoken everyone’s mind with your words and I can’t agree more, for those, were
my sentiments, exactly.<o:p></o:p></div>
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May Grand Canyon continue to be preserved in its
natural and pure state, for generations to come and be awestruck by its allure
and exquisite demeanor.<o:p></o:p><br />
<br /></div>
<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/10663151@N00/15763059937" title="P1300546_Fotor by AngelstarChristy, on Flickr"><img alt="P1300546_Fotor" height="360" src="https://farm9.staticflickr.com/8610/15763059937_6d880564d6_o.jpg" width="640" /></a>
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I look forward to be back, Grand Canyon!<o:p></o:p><br />
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Christina Kimhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11812903022397709758noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5867444051122615720.post-88619996882568231042014-11-27T00:44:00.003-08:002015-10-13T06:06:55.105-07:00Hoover Dam reminds me of...<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/10663151@N00/15863785416" title="P1300422_Fotor by AngelstarChristy, on Flickr"><img alt="P1300422_Fotor" height="360" src="https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7572/15863785416_26a1f5b4d6_o.jpg" width="640" /></a>
<b><br /></b>
<b><br /></b>
<b>Transformers</b>.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Yes, remember that classic scene in the first installation of the movie where the gigantic leaders of both the Autobots and Decepticons; Optimus Prime and Megatron were hot on each other's tracks like they were in a cat-and-mouse chase? (Maybe cat and mouse did not seem to be such an apt description for two gigantic bots, but you get the idea)</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">They were tumbling after each other; practically, over the high boulders and the upstream, gates, well, pretty much all over the place.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br />
<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/10663151@N00/15702309000" title="P1300448_Fotor by AngelstarChristy, on Flickr"><img alt="P1300448_Fotor" height="346" src="https://farm9.staticflickr.com/8668/15702309000_becb4efdf7_o.jpg" width="640" /></a></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Those images stuck in my mind for years and when I was heading towards the entrance of this prominently featured dam, believe it or not, that was the first thing that came to my mind.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">That was how profound of an effect from that movie, and I believe the producers and filmmakers of the movie would be very pleased to hear that, and extremely proud of themselves.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I was even half expecting Optimus and Megatron to continue their battle; and unleash more destruction around the mighty dam when I was there - such imagination.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br />
<b><u>Hoover Dam</u></b> was definitely built to withstand such pressures though; not destruction I mean, but the might and resilience of the structure was definitely eminent, holding the breath and awe of every visitor.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">The dam, is more than 70 years old; from its birth between the years of <b>1931 and 1936</b> and its construction was massive with the efforts of more than a thousand workers, and claimed more than a hundred lives during the process.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">It is devastating to learn of loss of lives involved in the establishment of the famous dam; as with most of the other complex buildings and landmarks in the world. These are the unsung heroes; the ones we did not know who put their lives into presenting a prominent landmark to the world today.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br />
The Dam was dedicated by the ruling<b> President Franklin Roosevelt</b> during his time; on the <b>30th September 1935</b> but it was after the former <b>President Herbert Hoover</b> the dam was named after, raising much controversies back then.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br />
<b><u>Lake Mead</u></b>, the largest reservoir by volume in the whole of the United States were confined within the territories of the Hoover Dam, making the dam one of the most important water storage areas in the country.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br />
<b>Hoover Dam</b> is not just important for its water storage capability, but was also designed to serve its multiple purposes of storing, retaining, regulating the water, flood control and also the source of hydroelectric power generation </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">On top of all that, Hoover Dam ranks as one of the tourist attractions and recreational area; witnessing more than a million tourists annually.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br />
Controversies surround the name of the dam; where the locals refer to the dam interchangeably between the officially named<b> Hoover Dam and the Boulder Dam</b>, with reference to its location near the <b>Boulder City of Nevada</b> and the neighboring <b>Boulder Canyon</b>.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Wedged between the two canyons; <b>Black Canyon</b> and <b>Boulder Canyon</b>, it is more precise to point that the location of the dam was in the <b>Black Canyon</b>, where the famous <b>Colorado River</b> runs.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br />
<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/10663151@N00/15863784526" title="P1300434_Fotor by AngelstarChristy, on Flickr"><img alt="P1300434_Fotor" height="360" src="https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7491/15863784526_1d08034267_o.jpg" width="640" /></a>
<br />
</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">It is interesting to note that this is not just any ordinary dam; which we already know by now (as I conjure images of the giant bots once again), following its remarkably captured photo-worthy location in Hollywood movies and apart from the entertainment aspect, this is also the <b><u>world's 38th largest hydroelectric generation site</u></b>.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/10663151@N00/15887617101" title="P1300404_Fotor by AngelstarChristy, on Flickr"><img alt="P1300404_Fotor" height="360" src="https://farm9.staticflickr.com/8605/15887617101_159b9c7556_o.jpg" width="640" /></a>
<br />
<br />
Thus with a reputation like that, it is definitely not surprising to learn that the dam is safely guarded and protected by their very own police force; officially known as the <b>Bureau of Reclamation Police</b>, a federal police force and regularly known as <b><u>Hoover Dam's police</u></b>.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br />
<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/10663151@N00/15703570839" title="P1300403_Fotor by AngelstarChristy, on Flickr"><img alt="P1300403_Fotor" height="360" src="https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7525/15703570839_02bd830b82_o.jpg" width="640" /></a>
<br />
</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Due to the importance of the dam, the federal police were delegated and dedicated to protect the integrity of the dam's purpose and establishment, along maintaining the security within the dam; safeguarding the place from possible crimes and acts of terrorism.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Collaborating with the security guards of the <b>Bureau of Reclamation</b>, the police scrutinize the access to the reclamation facilities and conduct routine checks throughout the restricted areas on the premises to maintain the safety of the site.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br />
<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/10663151@N00/15888965742" title="P1300397_Fotor by AngelstarChristy, on Flickr"><img alt="P1300397_Fotor" height="360" src="https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7580/15888965742_afb74dee65_o.jpg" width="640" /></a></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">The infamous terrorist attack which took place on the <b>11th September 2001</b> led to the expedition of the construction of the <b><u>Hoover Dam Bypass project</u></b>; which was intended to reroute the <b>U.S Route 93</b> above the Hoover Dam due to the dangers and risks it imposed based on the location as advised by the officials and also the incapacity of the route to hold the projected traffic volume across the top of the dam where it was situated.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/10663151@N00/15269968303" title="P1300450_Fotor by AngelstarChristy, on Flickr"><img alt="P1300450_Fotor" height="640" src="https://farm9.staticflickr.com/8657/15269968303_5e6422782c_o.jpg" width="360" /></a> </span></div>
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br />
The arch bridge; the major link or the key to the Hoover Dam Bypass project, is also known,or rather, originally known as the <b><u>Mike O' Callaghan - Pat Tillman Memorial Bridge</u></b> (named after Mike O'Callaghan, the governor of Nevada and Pat Tillman, a football player from Arizona who went on to serve the United States Army, later perished in a fire).</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br />
The list of interesting trivia surrounding the dam are anything but limited, as the vast areas on the premises beckon to the important roles they play to the country.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br />
<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/10663151@N00/15269969473" title="P1300431_Fotor by AngelstarChristy, on Flickr"><img alt="P1300431_Fotor" height="360" src="https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7534/15269969473_0264541b2b_o.jpg" width="640" /></a></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">If you ever want to be in two places at the same time; this would be it, as Hoover Dam is located in the Black Canyon of the Colorado River, which runs on the border of both the states of Nevada and Arizona.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br />
Voila, as Landon would say to Jamie, <b><i>"You're in Two Places at Once"</i></b></span><br />
<i><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">(Quote from A Walk to Remember)</span></i><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br />
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Now, that would be a nicer way to picture Hoover Dam than purely mega battles, wouldn't it? </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br />
<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/10663151@N00/15863786026" title="P1300418_Fotor by AngelstarChristy, on Flickr"><img alt="P1300418_Fotor" height="360" src="https://farm9.staticflickr.com/8570/15863786026_94aae71604_o.jpg" width="640" /></a>
</span>
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><br /></span>Christina Kimhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11812903022397709758noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5867444051122615720.post-14830986446968080732014-10-16T07:11:00.002-07:002015-10-13T06:07:13.549-07:00What I Like (Or Not) About Las Vegas<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/10663151@N00/15133660037" title="P1300333_Fotor by AngelstarChristy, on Flickr"><img alt="P1300333_Fotor" height="360" src="https://farm4.staticflickr.com/3916/15133660037_d3a93c094d_o.jpg" width="640" /></a><br />
<b><br /></b>
<b>Las Vegas</b>, or <i><b>Sin City</b></i>, whichever you call it, is a much publicized city in the movies, commercials, anecdotes, that it has risen to that prime spot for reputation internationally.<br />
So much has gone into that fame that Vegas is today a world tourist destination, and I am sure the locals couldn't be more pleased (in whichever context) with that pouring fortune coming in from all the tourism and of course, the investments in their luck here at the well-established landmarks surrounding the center of the city.<br />
<br />
Like many around the world (I am sure many have the same initial perception as well), Vegas, to me, is this city of entertainment and filled with many 'interesting' activities; particularly skewed towards the more adventurous side.<br />
The city is like a large <i>Wheel of Fortune</i> to me; where one can spin or look all around the city and rest his/her eyes on something that would catch their eye or that probably just looks fun, in their very own perception.<br />
It sounds like there is something for everyone to do in Vegas, but to be honest, is that really as they make it out to be or is it just another promotional tag for the travel brochures?<br />
<br />
For many, there is no doubt Sin City has its own foundations to build to its reputation/name and it is definitely not wrong to land in that perception. Gambling, or trying their luck at making it big at their fortunes (as they call it) is just one of the vices to begin with. Gambling sounds like a harsh word, definitely, but we are not far from the truth. To soften the allegation of the negative aura surrounding the word, it would definitely be more acceptable to look at it, or even refer to it as one's attempt to try their luck.<br />
<br />
Sampling your luck, or just taking it up as a challenge is probably a fun way to look at it, and it certainly is when one is just simply in it for the fun. However, often some get too carried away that they no longer focus on the fun and have indulged in the commitment to the table; staying confined to that space until they have lost focus on their loss and are intent on continuous investment of their fortune, just betting on luck. Scientifically, it is not all about luck when it comes to gambling, as there is a certain probability tied to it, but that is only made known to certain individuals who probably wrote a thesis on it (and made big fortunes with their science knowledge).<br />
The point is, when one starts to believe seriously and lose themselves (and money) in changing their luck, and lives on that table, that is when this becomes a vice, and negatively so.<br />
<br />
I am not an advocate of gambling; never was, and that was probably why I had never see that as one of the attractions in Vegas. That is just me, though I do find it fascinating the creativity invested in these fortune makers and masterminds behind the casinos, in coming up with many different types of modes/machines/avenues to cajole people from all over the world and we are talking about diversity here in masses, to just place their bets (their fortune) to contribute to these folks' fortunes.<br />
Walking through the casinos, I would never be even tempted to even attempt a coin slot to try my luck; simply because I am not just a strong believer of pure luck.<br />
(That's probably a different topic altogether, and it's not because I am just so negative about the lack of luck or anything like that). Neither am I a weak-willed person who cannot control myself and just fall into temptations; no, it's just not like that. I just don't like to gamble, or placing my trust and fortune on a machine/table, period.<br />
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There may be many people enjoying it, but I am saying, that if it doesn't lead to any negative emotions or situations, then it would be considered fun, otherwise, I am not sure that I like the idea of how it changes a person to the darker side.<br />
<br />
Las Vegas can be a very vibrant city that comes to life, especially at night, obviously.<br />
I liked how happening and lively the city is like, but at the same time, it could get a little rowdy and packed at the same time. Crowds can be suffocating, merry, gay and yet disturbing all in the same context. I probably made this sound confusing, but you get the idea.<br />
It can be exhilarating and adrenaline-pumping to see how excited people get, and how people are just so open and fun to be around with in the large crowds. It is as though there are no boundaries; it does not matter where you are from, who you are, why you are here - everyone is just there to have fun.<br />
That is the interesting part about Vegas, or even United States for that matter, where total strangers could be hugging or placing that high-five and just start a conversation with anyone in a friendly manner just right there on the spot.<br />
Loud music are playing everywhere in Vegas, and that's where people would sing or even dance along, mind you, and it's all normal to see dancing on the streets.<br />
It is just pure FUN, and I am amazed at how people are able to take that term "Let your hair down" to that extent, and I just love that concept.<br />
<br />
At the same time, some could tend to get too close to comfort, especially the drunk crowd or those over-friendly people and social problems tend to come to mind. It is no-brainer that one has to watch out for their belongings; not just in Vegas, of course, but it is good to put your guard on (especially if you are a lady) when being pushed around or shoved(probably squeezed a little) in that mass of crowds. Definitely not for the claustrophobics, I would say.<br />
<br />
There are just so many things to look forward to in Vegas, as I have covered in my previous articles, and I am sure there are more on others' lists compared to mine.<br />
It is all about fun, and having a good time in this city, as we have all seen in movies depicting the atmosphere of the city (and it is always at night, if you have noticed because that is when the city really, really comes to life) and I can't say I fully disagree.<br />
That's probably why the city is a little over the top in the commercialization part; and to a certain extent, the city probably is just too commercialized to my liking.<br />
It is not a bad thing, of course, particularly for the financial and commercial growth of the city but when things become provocatively commercialized, identity takes on a different turn and in a totally different light.<br />
<br />
In a nutshell, Vegas is a city which is just so full of life and excitement that it is not for the conservatives or the faint-hearted.<br />
<br />
Visit Vegas with an open mind, and take in what the city has to offer rather than setting your very own levels of expectations, just like how traveling ought to be anyway, wherever you go.<br />
Some may not find it is their cup of tea, but hey, at least, you have seen Vegas in her true form and you can say, <b><i>"Been there, done that"</i></b> and tick it off your bucket list.<br />
<br />
I have been to Vegas, and yeah, done that, definitely! :-)<br />
<br />
And remember, <b><i>Vegas, is a large, Wheel of Fortune</i></b>, spin it around, and take in from all around the angles!<br />
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<br />Christina Kimhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11812903022397709758noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5867444051122615720.post-71228411725110063092014-10-16T06:18:00.003-07:002015-10-13T06:07:29.308-07:00The Other(Less) Sinful Things to Do in Las VegasFrom my last article, the name Las Vegas seems to make one scream 'Casinos and Night Entertainment' and that was probably all one could think about when in this city.<br />
The thing is, Las Vegas is not all about the casinos; the need to get rich fast or the wedding Drive-In, where people can just wed in minutes in that drive-through style or even the party-all-night and or just knock yourself out with the booze.<br />
It is just the hype that Vegas is so commonly associated with the commercialization and the branding that one might not see beyond the other things that this city probably has to offer.<br />
<br />
Now I am not an expert to be exact to explore into the details of the attractions of Vegas, and just purely based on my personal experiences while I was there in person in this so-called Sin City.<br />
Undeniably, the publicity surrounding the city is all about the fun and letting your hair down while here is pulling the crowds in, especially over the weekends like magnets.<br />
It's just electrifying to see how the locals and tourists alike throng the city, eager to get a piece of it while they are here.<br />
<br />
Obviously from my article on Vegas, it is not hard to tell that I am not that party-hard nor am I a casino frequent visitor (definitely not a gambler, or an advocate of fast cash); not that I am bashing casinos but I am not quite sure I am voting for them either.<br />
Anyway, so what's a non-casino or party goer to do when in this city which seems to practically breathes these in the air?<br />
<br />
Plenty, I found that there are still things one could do, outside the gambling, the luck sampling, the booze and all that partying.<br />
So, I have come up with my own list of other sinful things to do, probably less sinful (but still a little on that edge of being a sinner in its own ways)<br />
<br />
<b><u>My List of Other Sinful (Or Less Sinful) Things to Do besides the Casinos</u></b><br />
<b><u><br /></u></b>
<b>1. Indulge, in the good food </b>and choose from the varieties of food outlets (Yeah, Gluttony is a Sin too, in case you didn't know)<br />
If you are into good buffets and really want to splurge, <b><u>go for the famous Bacchanal Buffet</u></b><br />
<b><u>(Caesars Palace)</u></b><br />
This is one memorable buffet and one that could make one feels like in heaven.<br />
Oh, be ready to queue and wait for your turn in line.<br />
(While I never like to queue for my food, I'm ready to give this an exception).<br />
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<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/10663151@N00/15297184176" title="P1300259_Fotor by AngelstarChristy, on Flickr"><img alt="P1300259_Fotor" height="360" src="https://farm6.staticflickr.com/5554/15297184176_0e4998dfa8_o.jpg" width="640" /></a><br />
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<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/10663151@N00/15320219245" title="P1300246_Fotor by AngelstarChristy, on Flickr"><img alt="P1300246_Fotor" height="360" src="https://farm4.staticflickr.com/3908/15320219245_5aaba5ddd4_o.jpg" width="640" /></a><br />
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<u style="font-weight: bold;">2. Go Shopping (Sin: Greed, Lust, Envy, Pride) - (</u>Did you even know shopping could stir up all these inner sins or that it belongs to this many category of sins?<br />
Neither did I, until I did this list!)<br />
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From International luxury designer brands to great steals (at the Premium Outlets), there is just something to look forward to and just lose your head in.<br />
Oh yes, even if you are not buying anything, get your heads spinning with all that window shopping, lust after the coveted items on the brand new arrivals in the display windows.<br />
Take away one more item from Vegas, buy something? You really don't mind another bag or a dress?<br />
Yes, breathe in all that greed, lust after that overpriced designer good, envy those who walk out with a shopping bag and be proud if you have one yourself! (or perhaps bathe in that pride, even imagining you had purchased something from Vegas, baby!)<br />
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<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/10663151@N00/15133627028" title="P1300277_Fotor by AngelstarChristy, on Flickr"><img alt="P1300277_Fotor" height="360" src="https://farm4.staticflickr.com/3886/15133627028_8b335a5e31_o.jpg" width="640" /></a>
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<b><u>3. Enjoy chilling out in your hotel</u></b>, or just book into a good one and take in the lights from your room's window (after you are done walking down the streets in the city)<br />
It calls for a little <i><b>Sloth</b></i> in action, well, what else is new?<br />
If you are in Vegas, you're definitely not here to stress yourself out, right?<br />
(Unless you're on a business trip or here to make a fortune, but either way, you're supposed to be chilling out after all that, or meditating all that positivity in before heading to the jackpot?)<br />
And by the way, what on earth are you doing here on a business trip? Just kidding!<br />
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<b><u>4. Walk through the Casinos (Resist that Greed!)</u></b><br />
No temptation at all, if you are Not into gambling at all, like me.<br />
Still, a good exercise to test that will power, and to watch all the cool actions taking place.<br />
(Watch the excitement, the anxiety, the laughter and the "I'm gonna be rich tonight" expressions plastered all over the hovering tenants)<br />
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<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/10663151@N00/15133642548" title="P1300207_Fotor by AngelstarChristy, on Flickr"><img alt="P1300207_Fotor" height="427" src="https://farm4.staticflickr.com/3926/15133642548_7b0400d9e9_o.jpg" width="640" /></a>
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<b><u>5. See that Pole Dancing in Action</u></b><br />
I am in awe of these amazing dancers who are just confident in their moves.<br />
Before you scream feminism comments or think this is about discriminating the weaker sex, it's really not. I trust in the women rights as well, and I have to say, pole dancing ought to be viewed with an open mind. It is a highly challenging dance, and it is simply not easy to wrap oneself around that pole with such grace and agility.<br />
What makes it sexy is the beautiful moves, and the confidence in these dancers, and not the conventional way of viewing it.<br />
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<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/10663151@N00/15133620798" title="P1300309_Fotor by AngelstarChristy, on Flickr"><img alt="P1300309_Fotor" height="360" src="https://farm4.staticflickr.com/3858/15133620798_dfbc2441a4_o.jpg" width="640" /></a>
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<b><u>6. 'Travel around the world'</u></b> - enjoy the replicas of the cities all assembled here in Vegas!<br />
Snap photos, this place is just Instagram worthy to brag that "I'm here!"<br />
Now I am in Rome and Vegas, at the same time! How cool's that?<br />
<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/10663151@N00/15320220315" title="P1300243_Fotor by AngelstarChristy, on Flickr"><img alt="P1300243_Fotor" height="360" src="https://farm4.staticflickr.com/3852/15320220315_fc6f651a6b_o.jpg" width="640" /></a>
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<b><u>7. Enjoy the Free Shows </u></b>which take place along the streets<br />
Not all the shows in Vegas are charged, you'll be surprised at the amazing shows they put on to capture the crowd's attention on the streets.<br />
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<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/10663151@N00/15133526000" title="P1300217_Fotor by AngelstarChristy, on Flickr"><img alt="P1300217_Fotor" height="427" src="https://farm4.staticflickr.com/3873/15133526000_5bac422062_o.jpg" width="640" /></a><b> </b><br />
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<b>8. Take in all the Nightlife excitement and the neon lights</b><br />
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<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/10663151@N00/15133605478" title="P1300215_Fotor by AngelstarChristy, on Flickr"><img alt="P1300215_Fotor" height="427" src="https://farm6.staticflickr.com/5570/15133605478_0a5f791711_o.jpg" width="640" /></a>
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Do whatever you want, just let Vegas lead you to her alluring side.<br />
(You don't have to do illegal stuffs to have fun, and I am sure we are all sane enough to know the boundaries).<br />
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Let your hair loose, and just chill, relax...after all, this IS Vegas! :-)<br />
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<b><u>Disclaimer: </u></b><br />
This is purely based on my personal experiences and views, and may differ according to different individuals' preferences.<br />
I am not responsible for the difference or lack of fun if you dislike this list, just saying.Christina Kimhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11812903022397709758noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5867444051122615720.post-8978402256350585552014-10-14T06:13:00.000-07:002015-10-13T06:07:52.128-07:00This is Vegas, Baby!Dazzling and bright neon lights, flashing laser lights in the background, iconic and gaily dressed buildings, casinos, vibrant nightlife and buzzing crowds of hip partying people are all just the images conjured in the mind synonymous with the mere mention of the <b><u>Sin City</u></b>.<br />
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It leaves little to imagination as to how the term is coined in association with the city of <u><b>Las Vegas</b></u>; with the flamboyant introduction to the lively city.<br />
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The lively images spring to life at the very moment one enters the city; or shall I say, even as one approaches the city while greeted by the vast desert plains passing by in motion like moving slides one after another.<br />
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Las Vegas, or the Sin City, was very much as I had imagined it would be, or it could be, in a way, a little less than what I had hoped it would turn out to be.<br />
Simply put, it did not defer much from its vivid description about the city and that sets the expectations right in terms of the first impressions of the city upon arrival and the bedazzling scenes of the life surrounded by casinos (yes, have you not heard?) and the happening entertainment shows, just to name a few.<br />
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<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/10663151@N00/15297143976" title="P1300140_Fotor by AngelstarChristy, on Flickr"><img alt="P1300140_Fotor" height="427" src="https://farm4.staticflickr.com/3862/15297143976_8078eae821_o.jpg" width="640" /></a>
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Heading to this buzzing city on a Friday evening just spells disaster, as traffic builds up with the average local Americans along the same coast making their way for a weekend getaway, though the moving traffic was probably something to be thankful for (compared to our horrendous traffic back home on Friday nights); so disaster at the start of this paragraph was just to create that picture to make an impression not to make this same mistake as me.<br />
<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/10663151@N00/15319855152" title="P1300179_Fotor by AngelstarChristy, on Flickr"><img alt="P1300179_Fotor" height="427" src="https://farm6.staticflickr.com/5552/15319855152_e0b3500d03_o.jpg" width="640" /></a><br />
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A trip to Vegas on a weekday would probably be better, if you are not an avid traffic fan, but then again, where's the fun when there's no buzz right?<br />
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<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/10663151@N00/15320200465" title="P1300329_Fotor by AngelstarChristy, on Flickr"><img alt="P1300329_Fotor" height="360" src="https://farm6.staticflickr.com/5577/15320200465_498b604870_o.jpg" width="640" /></a><br />
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This city is just so happening that it leaves little to wonder if the people here ever get to sleep.<br />
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Loud music blaring everywhere, laser lights and crowds, just masses of people all around you are probably my very own descriptive experience of how I view the Sin City.<br />
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<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/10663151@N00/15319896222" title="P1300208_Fotor by AngelstarChristy, on Flickr"><img alt="P1300208_Fotor" height="427" src="https://farm6.staticflickr.com/5553/15319896222_440c54883b_o.jpg" width="640" /></a><br />
From the inviting covens luring you with big promises of lucrative fast cash where loud sounds from the machines and stacks of chips in hand blinds your judgment as you dreams of making it big (and not having to work anymore) to the bewitching prances of the waitresses serving the drinks and of course, the seductive and incredibly sexy moves of the professional pole dancers can just make one's jaw drop, literally (and I mean it in a good way), and all these surrounded by plenty of glasses clinking arounds. No prize for guessing what is in them, and they are definitely not juices or plain water, in case you are wondering.<br />
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<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/10663151@N00/15133620798" title="P1300309_Fotor by AngelstarChristy, on Flickr"><img alt="P1300309_Fotor" height="360" src="https://farm4.staticflickr.com/3858/15133620798_dfbc2441a4_o.jpg" width="640" /></a>
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<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/10663151@N00/15133642548" title="P1300207_Fotor by AngelstarChristy, on Flickr"><img alt="P1300207_Fotor" height="427" src="https://farm4.staticflickr.com/3926/15133642548_7b0400d9e9_o.jpg" width="640" /></a>
Gambling? Checked<br />
Booze? Checked<br />
Partying? Checked<br />
Entertainment/Shows? Checked<br />
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If you are still wondering why this is Sin City, well, maybe the word Sin may mean something else to you and you might want to refer to a dictionary or the Bible, if you may.<br />
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I would say it takes plenty and plenty of strong will to stay sane, and of course, saintly in this city surrounded by all forms of temptations.<br />
You may not need to head for a canonization just yet, for if you are not into stuffs like these, like me, you could just enjoy a stroll in the city, taking in the atmosphere of this highly-publicized city and also experience for yourself the insights Vegas has to offer.<br />
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It probably is not my cup of tea, but an eye-opener it indeed was.<br />
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For all its high ratings of commercialization and over publicity, Vegas is not just a city for the faint-hearted.<br />
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It is truly an entertainment in its own form; as it stands with all the glaring lights from the menacing buildings guarding the city, slyly beckoning to those who dare to enter, and leave, proudly smiling that they have conquered the city and emerged undefeated by the traps of losing their entire fortune.<br />
And of course, rather than calling it notoriously as a Sin City and just associating it with all those negative vices and vibes can be rather daunting for the poor city.<br />
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Take it with a positive style; and Vegas can just be as enchanting as it may appear as though one is about to step on unholy grounds.<br />
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For all it's worth, Las Vegas is definitely a happening city, and revel in the flamboyant lifestyles once you get past the crowds...Of course the crowds are just part of what forms that identity of the city.<br />
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From high end designer brands to luxurious restaurants, there is just endless to the temptations this city has to offer.<br />
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<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/10663151@N00/15133512200" title="P1300274_Fotor by AngelstarChristy, on Flickr"><img alt="P1300274_Fotor" height="360" src="https://farm4.staticflickr.com/3869/15133512200_5bacbff793_o.jpg" width="640" /></a><br />
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Imagine having a city filled with the full-sized and almost realistic replicas of world-famous landmarks (think Fontana de Trevi) or even a remake of the entire city in this city itself; that leaves many in awe as one could be wandering parts of Rome and then into the canals of Venice right here in Vegas.<br />
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<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/10663151@N00/15317056221" title="P1300283_Fotor by AngelstarChristy, on Flickr"><img alt="P1300283_Fotor" height="360" src="https://farm6.staticflickr.com/5596/15317056221_77a98a497b_o.jpg" width="640" /></a><br />
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<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/10663151@N00/15133464319" title="P1300281_Fotor by AngelstarChristy, on Flickr"><img alt="P1300281_Fotor" height="360" src="https://farm6.staticflickr.com/5584/15133464319_bf0c15e65a_o.jpg" width="640" /></a><br />
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<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/10663151@N00/15319867372" title="P1300352_Fotor by AngelstarChristy, on Flickr"><img alt="P1300352_Fotor" height="360" src="https://farm4.staticflickr.com/3865/15319867372_2bb36ee564_o.jpg" width="640" /></a><br />
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<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/10663151@N00/15297163376" title="P1300342_Fotor by AngelstarChristy, on Flickr"><img alt="P1300342_Fotor" height="360" src="https://farm6.staticflickr.com/5580/15297163376_afa519231c_o.jpg" width="640" /></a><br />
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<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/10663151@N00/15320220315" title="P1300243_Fotor by AngelstarChristy, on Flickr"><img alt="P1300243_Fotor" height="360" src="https://farm4.staticflickr.com/3852/15320220315_fc6f651a6b_o.jpg" width="640" /></a><br />
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Traipsing the cities can be a rather captivating ride, and surrounded by the fashionable dwellers or entertainers dressed to the nines can indeed make one feel out of place; if you are here in casual form, you would definitely feel a little under-dressed among the party-goers and the stylish crowd.<br />
After all, it is a Friday night and everywhere in the world, it just spells party night after a whole week of work.<br />
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Oh, and in case you didn't know, Las Vegas is also a place where you can get married instantly, and therefore, do not be surprised if you find brides and bridal entourage right in the middle of town.<br />
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Everything seems possible right here in this city and at a glance, it does indeed seem like a city where dreams can come true(depending on the right or wrong direction?), and in case you are still mystified, this is Vegas, Baby!<br />
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<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/10663151@N00/15320200465" title="P1300329_Fotor by AngelstarChristy, on Flickr"><img alt="P1300329_Fotor" height="360" src="https://farm6.staticflickr.com/5577/15320200465_498b604870_o.jpg" width="640" /></a><br />
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Need I say more?<br />
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<b><u>Disclaimer from author: </u></b><br />
While it may seem like everything is like a dream, irresponsible behaviors and indulgence in illegal activities are still as they are, Illegal.<br />
<br />Christina Kimhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11812903022397709758noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5867444051122615720.post-56966611336179335762014-06-19T01:12:00.003-07:002015-10-13T06:08:08.872-07:00A Seafood Lunch at Pier MarketA visit to Fisherman's Wharf and Pier 39 is not complete without enjoying a seafood meal in an area where fishermen and the fishing trade dwell; hauling in the abundant fresh catch from the sea every single day.<br />
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Voted as the "<b><i>Best Seafood in San Francisco</i></b>" by the <b>KRON 4 TV Best of the Bay</b> as proudly publicized on their <a href="http://piermarket.com/">homepage</a>, <b><u style="background-color: yellow;">Pier Market</u></b> boasts of their fresh seafood served in their very own distinguished styles guaranteed to leave that memorable tastes in their guests' minds (and mouths, of course).<br />
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<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/10663151@N00/14263735208" title="P1290855_Fotor by AngelstarChristy, on Flickr"><img alt="P1290855_Fotor" height="427" src="https://farm6.staticflickr.com/5536/14263735208_41c231fc77_o.jpg" width="640" /></a>
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<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/10663151@N00/14446974651" title="P1290848_Fotor by AngelstarChristy, on Flickr"><img alt="P1290848_Fotor" height="427" src="https://farm4.staticflickr.com/3844/14446974651_1b0216fbce_o.jpg" width="640" /></a><br />
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Be welcomed by the warm ambiance as one steps into the restaurant's dining area, where live seafood swim in the tanks at the front of the restaurant which is decked in wooden furnishing.<br />
The casual-dining environment with a light note of elegance in the concept of their interior sends that very message intended by the Simmons family; the founder and developer of Pier 39 and also of this place, and Pier Market Seafood Restaurant has been in operation for more than three decades; managed by the 3rd generation of the family.<br />
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<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/10663151@N00/14263737530" title="P1290850_Fotor by AngelstarChristy, on Flickr"><img alt="P1290850_Fotor" height="427" src="https://farm3.staticflickr.com/2925/14263737530_4a362c9425_o.jpg" width="640" /></a><br />
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One can also choose to enjoy the cool breezy environment in their open concept of alfresco dining; where tables and chairs are laid out under the signature blue shades from the awning, allowing the friendly rays of the sun to shine through amidst the cheerful colors of the garden flowers dancing gaily in the weather. Besides enjoying the food, one can take in the atmosphere of Pier 39 and of the visitors taking a stroll down the wood board floors of the marina.<br />
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<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/10663151@N00/14446981851" title="P1290857_Fotor by AngelstarChristy, on Flickr"><img alt="P1290857_Fotor" height="427" src="https://farm6.staticflickr.com/5556/14446981851_31862e9b84_o.jpg" width="640" /></a><br />
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We chose to dine inside as the breeze was a little too chilly for us tropical climate dwellers, and we made ourselves comfortable as we enjoyed the view from the observation deck which provided scenes of the overall Pier 39 and the famous islands.<br />
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Started the meal with their fresh <b><u>Sourdough Garlic Bread</u></b><br />
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<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/10663151@N00/14470506493" title="P1290838_Fotor by AngelstarChristy, on Flickr"><img alt="P1290838_Fotor" height="427" src="https://farm4.staticflickr.com/3852/14470506493_eda575fb68_o.jpg" width="640" /></a><br />
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The term fresh was definitely apt to describe this soft pillowy texture of the bread lined with the crackling crisp outer layer. The firm yet brittle bite of the crust was a perfect complement to the chewy and spongy white bed, and is good enough to enjoy on its own.<br />
Garlic butter is provided as well, as with most bread baskets to start the meal.<br />
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<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/10663151@N00/14263715399" title="P1290839_Fotor by AngelstarChristy, on Flickr"><img alt="P1290839_Fotor" height="427" src="https://farm4.staticflickr.com/3863/14263715399_2eb2863da6_o.jpg" width="640" /></a><br />
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One of their house specialties and definitely a unique option to start the meal is their<br />
<b><u>Crab Cakes ($12.95)</u></b><br />
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<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/10663151@N00/14427241606" title="P1290842_Fotor by AngelstarChristy, on Flickr"><img alt="P1290842_Fotor" height="427" src="https://farm4.staticflickr.com/3898/14427241606_4e069ff201_o.jpg" width="640" /></a><br />
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Served with <i>Cajun Remoulade</i>, the well-battered moulds stuffed to the brim with the moist minced crab paste was rather the distinct offering compared to those usually found in the Thai cuisine.<br />
The generously sized crab cakes were mixed with their home recipe, providing that luscious taste of the crab paste which melts in one's mouth against the flaky crumbs adorning the outer skin will definitely leave one with that memorable longing for a second bite.<br />
Try it with a squeeze of lemon and with that special cajun remoulade, and you will be hooked.<br />
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<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/10663151@N00/14263685779" title="P1290843_Fotor by AngelstarChristy, on Flickr"><img alt="P1290843_Fotor" height="427" src="https://farm4.staticflickr.com/3919/14263685779_50c656071c_o.jpg" width="640" /></a>
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<b><u>Pier Market Mixed Grill $23.95</u></b> was a modest platter combining the grill of fresh Salmon, fresh swordfish and shrimp skewer, served along with cole slaw and rice.<br />
(One can opt to have this in Cajun Style, Teriyaki or BBQ Glazed and to serve with either rice or garlic buttered new potatoes).<br />
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<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/10663151@N00/14263709539" title="P1290844_Fotor by AngelstarChristy, on Flickr"><img alt="P1290844_Fotor" height="427" src="https://farm3.staticflickr.com/2940/14263709539_526614363e_o.jpg" width="640" /></a><br />
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Slightly left a little longer on the grill which gave it that slight overcooked tastes, the platter is still a good option for one who would like a little more variety of the seafood in one single serving.<br />
I definitely enjoyed not having to choose between salmon and their fresh swordfish and even shrimps, and the serving left us satisfied, though the grill could be improved with a lighter touch.<br />
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We were treated to this cookie at the end of the meal; complimentary from the restaurant to polish our overall meal.<br />
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<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/10663151@N00/14450347905" title="P1290847_Fotor by AngelstarChristy, on Flickr"><img alt="P1290847_Fotor" height="427" src="https://farm4.staticflickr.com/3838/14450347905_de25d61b32_o.jpg" width="640" /></a><br />
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We found the shop selling this a few doors away from the restaurant :-)<br />
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<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/10663151@N00/14263738088" title="P1290861_Fotor by AngelstarChristy, on Flickr"><img alt="P1290861_Fotor" height="427" src="https://farm6.staticflickr.com/5490/14263738088_eff92d9f80_o.jpg" width="640" /></a><br />
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With the many seafood restaurants around Pier 39 to storm you dizzy with choices for meals, one can easily stumble upon any restaurant and for us, I must say that my lucky stars helped me to decide on <b><u>Pier Market</u></b> which turned out to be a good one to add that finishing touch to my experience on Pier 39, Fisherman's Wharf and definitely of San Francisco too.<br />
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After all, more than 30 years of operation definitely says something about Pier Market, doesn't it?<br />
Looking forward to visiting again on my next trip :-)<br />
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<br />Christina Kimhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11812903022397709758noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5867444051122615720.post-64367856201873133872014-06-18T02:44:00.002-07:002015-10-13T06:09:13.240-07:00Fisherman's Wharf, Pier 39 and the SealsThe fishermen neighborhood complete with the fleet of fishing boats docked by the bay, their well-polished hulls glistening in the sun, and windy sea breeze blowing against the flapping tiny flags amidst the bustling urban modernization of a well-established commercial center and marina aptly describes the famous <b><u style="background-color: yellow;">Fisherman's Wharf of San Francisco</u></b>.<br />
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Dating back to its early history from the days of the Gold Rush in San Francisco which drew a crowd of migrating Italian fishermen to the coast eager to earn from the flowing opportunities, Fisherman's Wharf has seen generations of bidding fishermen until this very day. The early boats in sign were emblematic of the Italian's common fishing boats; known as feluccas, seen bobbing up and down along the bay as the early ancestors of these fishermen scour the coast for their catch. The lateen-rigged sailboats, or the feluccas represent the identity of the fishermen, or as they were modeled in the same build and design known to the fishermen as in their very homeland.<br />
The fishing boats were not the only thing these fishermen brought, as they serenaded the bay with their songs; one that was beautifully and hauntingly melodious, as their common language of communication which can even be heard over the thick shrouds of fog.<br />
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Most of the fishermen settled down in the area close to the wharf and the fishing industry continues until this very day, by the great grandchildren known to be the descendants of the early fisher folks , in this very area, forming the heart of the <b>Fisherman's Wharf</b> with their unmistakable sights of fishing fleet and turning the place into one of the dearest attractions in San Francisco among the locals and tourists.<br />
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<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/10663151@N00/14423628545" title="P1290700_Fotor by AngelstarChristy, on Flickr"><img alt="P1290700_Fotor" height="427" src="https://farm4.staticflickr.com/3866/14423628545_ee9803fff1_o.jpg" width="640" /></a>
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<b><u style="background-color: yellow;">Pier 39</u></b> is the most well-known pier located at the edge of <b>Fisherman's Wharf</b>; bringing to life the commercialization of a shopping establishment forming the pulse of this very marina itself along with the seafood restaurants, souvenir shops, video arcade, aquarium all being part of the list of attractions.<br />
The popular tourist attraction was the brainchild of entrepreneur <b>Warren Simmons</b> and was officially open to the public in the year <b>1978</b>.<br />
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<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/10663151@N00/14237062688" title="P1290734_Fotor by AngelstarChristy, on Flickr"><img alt="P1290734_Fotor" height="427" src="https://farm4.staticflickr.com/3848/14237062688_39df6b87e1_o.jpg" width="640" /></a>
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<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/10663151@N00/14400542846" title="P1290723_Fotor by AngelstarChristy, on Flickr"><img alt="P1290723_Fotor" height="427" src="https://farm4.staticflickr.com/3888/14400542846_f35a76d0c8_o.jpg" width="640" /></a><br />
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<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/10663151@N00/14237061350" title="P1290741_Fotor by AngelstarChristy, on Flickr"><img alt="P1290741_Fotor" height="427" src="https://farm3.staticflickr.com/2921/14237061350_c879f7c84c_o.jpg" width="640" /></a>
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<b>Pier 39</b> overlooks the tourists spots of Angel Island, Alcatraz Island (where the once notoriously famous prison was located), Bay Bridge and even the iconic Golden Gate Bridge which can be spotted on a clear day at this very marina.<br />
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<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/10663151@N00/14422532614" title="P1290730_Fotor by AngelstarChristy, on Flickr"><img alt="P1290730_Fotor" height="427" src="https://farm6.staticflickr.com/5199/14422532614_a4e01938a5_o.jpg" width="640" /></a>
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Take a stroll down the wooden plank boards of Pier 39 among the tourists and locals and take in the lively environment set up by the local vendors running the shops here, while enjoying the cool and windy sea breeze blowing from the bay.<br />
It can be quite a relaxing experience, and I can definitely see the appeal of this place and the reasons for its popularity. Friendly locals, interesting displays and merchandise, chilly sea breeze and scenic views from around the area are all just the few to name capturing one's attention while here on Pier 39.<br />
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<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/10663151@N00/14443820813" title="P1290776_Fotor by AngelstarChristy, on Flickr"><img alt="P1290776_Fotor" height="427" src="https://farm4.staticflickr.com/3842/14443820813_043f7b8b79_o.jpg" width="640" /></a>
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<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/10663151@N00/14237055168" title="P1290787_Fotor by AngelstarChristy, on Flickr"><img alt="P1290787_Fotor" height="427" src="https://farm4.staticflickr.com/3887/14237055168_e935b51b71_o.jpg" width="640" /></a><br />
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<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/10663151@N00/14423653215" title="P1290791_Fotor by AngelstarChristy, on Flickr"><img alt="P1290791_Fotor" height="427" src="https://farm6.staticflickr.com/5538/14423653215_3198056f6f_o.jpg" width="640" /></a>
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<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/10663151@N00/14443814303" title="P1290758_Fotor by AngelstarChristy, on Flickr"><img alt="P1290758_Fotor" height="427" src="https://farm6.staticflickr.com/5502/14443814303_439d6c93ca_o.jpg" width="640" /></a>
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<b>Pier 39</b> is not just any ordinary pier filled with only the commercial aspects as it is also the home to the <b>California Sea Lions</b> which were originally spotted along the <b>San Francisco Bay</b>.<br />
The seals have since found their new homes near Pier 39; hauling their body masses on the docks since the year <b>1989</b>. While the reasons for their migration remains unclear, it was believed that the <b>1989 Loma Prieta earthquake</b> could be one of the starting points for the seals to move to their new homes; sheltered and being within a bay which provided more security to the families of seals.<br />
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<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/10663151@N00/14422514924" title="P1290810_Fotor by AngelstarChristy, on Flickr"><img alt="P1290810_Fotor" height="509" src="https://farm4.staticflickr.com/3859/14422514924_cd19cda471_o.jpg" width="640" /></a>
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The masses of sea lions resting on the docks quickly garnered public attention and the sight of these mammals became one of the tourist attraction as well.<br />
Viewing docks are set up for one to take in the natural image of these live seals plopped on the wooden docks and it can be quite a daunting sight to watch the masses, or at least it was for me.<br />
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<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/10663151@N00/14422352232" title="P1290805_Fotor by AngelstarChristy, on Flickr"><img alt="P1290805_Fotor" height="427" src="https://farm3.staticflickr.com/2926/14422352232_025d7b12c6_o.jpg" width="640" /></a><br />
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<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/10663151@N00/14236997359" title="P1290812_Fotor by AngelstarChristy, on Flickr"><img alt="P1290812_Fotor" height="427" src="https://farm6.staticflickr.com/5520/14236997359_5c8c3c1ebf_o.jpg" width="640" /></a><br />
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The marina is indeed full of its charms and life, as seen in the living pictures of the snapshots which are just capturing the tip of the essence of the offerings of Pier 39.<br />
I am easily captivated by the simple view of a marina, with that picturesque scene of boats resting peacefully by the docks, and the occasional floating/bobbing motion which explains my personal fixation on this place.<br />
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<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/10663151@N00/14422348192" title="P1290770_Fotor by AngelstarChristy, on Flickr"><img alt="P1290770_Fotor" height="427" src="https://farm6.staticflickr.com/5277/14422348192_6223967334_o.jpg" width="640" /></a><br />
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<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/10663151@N00/14422524994" title="P1290766_Fotor by AngelstarChristy, on Flickr"><img alt="P1290766_Fotor" height="427" src="https://farm4.staticflickr.com/3842/14422524994_0824e0cc37_o.jpg" width="640" /></a><br />
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<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/10663151@N00/14400510706" title="P1290761_Fotor by AngelstarChristy, on Flickr"><img alt="P1290761_Fotor" height="427" src="https://farm4.staticflickr.com/3858/14400510706_abccff145c_o.jpg" width="640" /></a><br />
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As the sign says, <b>Fisherman's Wharf and Pier 39</b> is definitely <i>the pride and part of the soul of San Francisco's identity</i> and definitely truly significant of the city itself.<br />
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What else says better about this City by the Bay than a visit to capture that view of life by the bay itself?<br />
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<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/10663151@N00/14443812433" title="P1290745_Fotor by AngelstarChristy, on Flickr"><img alt="P1290745_Fotor" height="427" src="https://farm4.staticflickr.com/3860/14443812433_c89442a915_o.jpg" width="640" /></a><br />
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<br />Christina Kimhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11812903022397709758noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5867444051122615720.post-64181776556742079212014-06-13T21:59:00.000-07:002015-10-13T06:09:32.535-07:00Lombard Street: The Crooked Street of San Francisco<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/10663151@N00/14416608585" title="P1290687_Fotor by AngelstarChristy, on Flickr"><img alt="P1290687_Fotor" height="640" src="https://farm3.staticflickr.com/2902/14416608585_41082d297c_o.jpg" width="508" /></a></div>
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If you have seen a shot of the above in any travel sites or books/magazines, chances are you have heard of and known of this famous street in <b>San Francisco</b>.<br />
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Dubbed "<b><i>The Most Crooked Street</i></b>" or "<b><i>The Crooked Street in San Francisco</i></b>", this is definitely one of the most unique and interesting landmark in the city; after the famous iconic landmark of the <a href="http://christytraveblogue.blogspot.com/2014/06/postcard-from-san-francisco-golden-gate.html"><b>Golden Gate Bridge</b></a>, that is.<br />
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<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/10663151@N00/14230155237" title="P1290609_Fotor by AngelstarChristy, on Flickr"><img alt="P1290609_Fotor" height="427" src="https://farm3.staticflickr.com/2938/14230155237_9d66fbc115_o.jpg" width="640" /></a><br />
<b><u style="background-color: yellow;"><br /></u></b>
<b><u style="background-color: yellow;">Lombard Street</u></b> is not purely this single street, as it spans from the east to the west of San Francisco, covering the major junction of US Route 101. The Street spans from the western terminus at the Presidio to the east; the Cow Hollow neighborhood and continuing from the Russian Hill to the Telegraph Hill where it breaks off to Telegraph Hill Boulevard; Pioneer Park and Colt Tower and picks up again at Winthrop Street. Its end point rests on The Embarcadero.<br />
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<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/10663151@N00/14415484214" title="P1290680_Fotor by AngelstarChristy, on Flickr"><img alt="P1290680_Fotor" height="640" src="https://farm6.staticflickr.com/5572/14415484214_a25dabb86b_o.jpg" width="426" /></a>
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The famous point of this street is the <b><u style="background-color: yellow;">Lombard Street's one-way block on Russian Hill</u></b>, known for its steep and curvaceous gradient featuring eight hairpin turns; tightly so, is a challenge for drivers as one takes a plunge down this bend. For the local residents however, needless to say, they are just too used to the road that there is no longer any element of fascination in it; or maybe not so true.<br />
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The street's rising popularity despite its early establishment in the year <b>1922</b> is attributed to its unique twists and turns as a vehicle makes its way in a <b>zig-zagging manner </b>around the turns and bends of this interesting street. The street was in fact, a solution for the precipitous gradient of the hill itself; which at a 27% was too steep for the most vehicles, posing high risks to the safety of the drivers and even pedestrians, not to mention the danger it posed to the wheel chairs, making it uncomfortably hazardous to most of the users.<br />
The inclusion of the bends and turns; while still appearing to be challenging, is designed to curb and minimize the risk of the vehicles taking a sharp dive as they brake and navigate cautiously around the bends.<br />
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<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/10663151@N00/14413255181" title="P1290612_Fotor by AngelstarChristy, on Flickr"><img alt="P1290612_Fotor" height="640" src="https://farm3.staticflickr.com/2934/14413255181_d39c5df72c_o.jpg" width="426" /></a></div>
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The brainchild of the property owner, <b>Carl Henry</b>, the street was then constructed in 1922, is one-way traffic road heading downhill (naturally so), with a length of 600 feet (180m).<br />
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Paved with red bricks and decorated with the beautiful garden blooms, <b>Lombard Street's Russian Hill neighborhood where this sloped-driveway is located</b>, quickly became the most prominent neighborhood streets with its unique attributes and catapulted into stardom in the world; drawing tourists from all over the globe swarming the neighborhood hoping to catch a glimpse of this much-acclaimed street.<br />
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The neighborhood is no longer enjoying their quiet moments, definitely, I can attest to that, as tourists, and people are all just crowding around the area to snap a few shots of this unique street which is definitely one of its kind in the world.<br />
If the street is not occupied with its own nicknames to fill its own guest book, there is one more to add to the list as one of "<b><i>The Crookedest Streets in the World</i></b>"; and not just in San Francisco or United States alone.<br />
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The best way to experience this famous downhill slope way of Lombard Street is to take a drive in your car to navigate around the eight hairpin turns; taking each one at a time to delve in that surreal experience but it was definitely worth it.<br />
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<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/10663151@N00/14230044490" title="P1290614_Fotor by AngelstarChristy, on Flickr"><img alt="P1290614_Fotor" height="427" src="https://farm4.staticflickr.com/3912/14230044490_9b8c019f51_o.jpg" width="640" /></a><br />
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Taking a good shot of the street can be a challenge; wrestling the crowds and also the angle (which, provided you can disperse the crowds hovering impatiently near you as you take each shot).<br />
An aerial view would be ideal; or from afar, to get those cables out of sight (as mine had so unfortunately included). One of the best location, and most recommended would be from Colt Tower which provided a complete and ideal view of this one-way drive.<br />
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Flowers in bloom, cars appearing like miniatures on the bends, and the red bricks make this part of Lombard Street seem like a fictional and imaginary land which only exists in story books; but this is as real as can be and is definitely well worth the time and value to be included in any sightseeing list while in San Francisco.<br />
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<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/10663151@N00/14413277331" title="P1290683_Fotor by AngelstarChristy, on Flickr"><img alt="P1290683_Fotor" height="640" src="https://farm4.staticflickr.com/3873/14413277331_61505732d3_o.jpg" width="498" /></a> </div>
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It is definitely a picturesque location that one can walk away and bring home proud, to stash in the collection of one of the postcard locations in San Francisco (and the world); and of course, a tick off the travel bucket list for unique locations around the world.<br />
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<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/10663151@N00/14230174347" title="P1290685_Fotor by AngelstarChristy, on Flickr"><img alt="P1290685_Fotor" height="640" src="https://farm4.staticflickr.com/3901/14230174347_dc214db3e6_o.jpg" width="545" /></a>
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<br />Christina Kimhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11812903022397709758noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5867444051122615720.post-76111246019089557602014-06-13T19:49:00.001-07:002015-10-13T06:10:12.953-07:00Postcard from San Francisco: Golden Gate Bridge<i>"It's just a bridge, what is there to photograph?"</i><br />
<i>"It's the Golden Gate Bridge!!"</i><br />
<i>"So? It's just another bridge, and we have way bigger and more magnificent bridges in our country which surpass this bridge anytime"</i><br />
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Those were the words I heard in an exchange between an elderly couple standing less than ten feet away from me; as the wife was bouncing with enthusiasm and excitement upon the sight of the <b><u>Golden Gate Bridge</u></b> upon descending from their bus, desperately trying to get the best shot of the bridge from every angle, the husband stuck his hands into his pockets and watched with an expression of boredom and disinterest.<br />
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Well, in my own response <i><b>To the elderly sir</b></i>, there may be many bridges around the world, but your wife is definitely not wrong that this is <b>THE Golden Gate Bridge</b>, the iconic and world-recognized emblem which best represents the famous city of <b>San Francisco</b> in the <b>United States of America</b>.<br />
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<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/10663151@N00/14412840841" title="P1290466_Fotor by AngelstarChristy, on Flickr"><img alt="P1290466_Fotor" height="427" src="https://farm6.staticflickr.com/5076/14412840841_c71351eabd_o.jpg" width="640" /></a><br />
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The <b><u>Golden Gate Bridge</u></b> is synonymous with the term <b>San Francisco</b> as the very image of this bridge pops up by default when the name of the city is mentioned.<br />
Yes, such is the power of this iconic bridge, which has, for decades, captured the hearts and attention of the world since its official launch in the year <b>1937</b>.<br />
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In fact, some travel guide books; namely <b><i>Frommers,</i></b> referred to this very bridge as "<b><i>possibly one of the most beautiful and certainly the most photographed bridge in the world</i></b>".<br />
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The unmistakable bold red metal colors of the suspension bridge is simply a symbol or a representation of the city; and a sight to behold as one enters this; one of the most populous city in the United States, as can be seen in most images or postcards related to San Francisco.<br />
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<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/10663151@N00/14229554789" title="P1290526_Fotor by AngelstarChristy, on Flickr"><img alt="P1290526_Fotor" height="640" src="https://farm4.staticflickr.com/3909/14229554789_5c359f81c1_o.jpg" width="426" /></a> </div>
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It is definitely not just any bridge; it is almost as if the bridge is San Francisco itself; being such an icon of fame and world-renowned status.<br />
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There is much for <b>Golden Gate Bridge</b> to be the pride of San Francisco (and even the United States as well); with it being declared as one of the <b>Wonders of the Modern World </b>by the <b>American Society of Civil Engineers</b> - <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Golden_Gate_Bridge">Wikipedia</a>)<br />
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<b>Golden Gate Bridge</b> was also named <b><u>the world's longest suspension bridge main span</u></b>; with its length of<b> 4,200 feet (1,300m)</b> - a title it held for at least three decades since its opening <b>until the year 1964</b> when it was succeeded by ten other bridges in the world, and <b>now holds the second longest suspension bridge in the United States</b>; right after New York City's <b><u>Verrazano-Narrows Bridge</u></b>.<br />
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The famous suspension bridge spans across the Golden Gate Straits connecting both the San Francisco Bay and the Pacific Ocean; linking the city of San Francisco from its northern peninsula to Marin County. Its establishment resorts to solve the commuting woes for the early settlers between the Marin County to San Francisco; whereby the only mode of transportation was via boat as they transport water to the city of San Francisco.<br />
The early conception of the bridge as a commuting option posed many challenges to the engineering as the strait commanded strong currents and tidal waves, along with the savaging winds and the depth of the water which made it a difficult and near-impossible mission with their then-technology. Fogs were also common problem plaguing the strait which added to the difficulty of the construction of the bridge.<br />
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A former engineering student, James Wilkins' proposal made it through, and Joseph Strauss, an avid engineer and poet, was then tasked to the alteration of the design with his background and experience working on other bridges (his graduate thesis was on a railroad bridge across the Bering Strait).<br />
The progressive findings on metallurgy then paved the way for the concept of a suspension bridge; which was the most practical idea at that time.<br />
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The conceptualization till the establishment of the famous bridge spanned for a decade; facing oppositions as well from various parties, with concerns raised on the risks of the bridge posing a hazard to the marine traffic and also the potential of ship collision or causing obstruction to the main harbors for the navy defense.<br />
However, its construction finally made it through, or we would not be witnesses to the world-famous bridge today.<br />
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The name of the Golden Gate Bridge was coined way before the bridge even began its construction or design; when it was discussed in the year <b>1917</b>, by Strauss and city engineer of San Francisco, M.M. O Shaughnessy and was then officially legalized in the year 1923 with the passing of the Golden Gate Bridge and Highway District Act by the state legislation.<br />
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Hung from two major cables passing through two main towers, the bridge spans a length of <b>8,981 feet (2,737m)</b> and six vehicle traffic lanes; ferrying commuters on its busy roads everyday.<br />
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Pedestrians and cyclists are also fond of this iconic landmark, and designated lanes have been included on both sides of the bridges for them to enjoy the walk and ride down the bridge. While initially the two-way traffic lanes were separated by only metal curbs, railings were then added to prevent the cyclists from slipping onto the roadways.<br />
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<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/10663151@N00/14412859451" title="P1290544_Fotor by AngelstarChristy, on Flickr"><img alt="P1290544_Fotor" height="427" src="https://farm3.staticflickr.com/2939/14412859451_af6f902037_o.jpg" width="640" /></a><br />
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<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/10663151@N00/14393087646" title="P1290540_Fotor by AngelstarChristy, on Flickr"><img alt="P1290540_Fotor" height="427" src="https://farm4.staticflickr.com/3890/14393087646_4977824152_o.jpg" width="640" /></a><br />
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<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/10663151@N00/14415059424" title="P1290541_Fotor by AngelstarChristy, on Flickr"><img alt="P1290541_Fotor" height="427" src="https://farm6.staticflickr.com/5235/14415059424_34629bd1fd_o.jpg" width="640" /></a><br />
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<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/10663151@N00/14229613600" title="P1290554_Fotor by AngelstarChristy, on Flickr"><img alt="P1290554_Fotor" height="286" src="https://farm3.staticflickr.com/2920/14229613600_4f85a16606_o.jpg" width="640" /></a><br />
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<b><u>Golden Gate Bridge</u></b> is command center of tourism for the city of San Francisco, and there is no one who will be seen skipping this landmark off their sightseeing list when in the city, as it is almost a huge no, to have not visited this bridge which is internationally recognized as the iconic symbol of the the city itself.<br />
Tour buses and cars flock to the Golden Gate area; to catch a glimpse, and like the couple described above in my opening, to photograph themselves and of the much celebrated bridge.<br />
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<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/10663151@N00/14229587398" title="P1290456_Fotor by AngelstarChristy, on Flickr"><img alt="P1290456_Fotor" height="427" src="https://farm6.staticflickr.com/5488/14229587398_6cd6f45a77_o.jpg" width="640" /></a><br />
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<i>Golden Gate Bridge on a cloudy day (on the day I was there)</i><br />
<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/10663151@N00/14436374723" title="P1290492_Fotor by AngelstarChristy, on Flickr"><img alt="P1290492_Fotor" height="427" src="https://farm3.staticflickr.com/2936/14436374723_2968dcdb74_o.jpg" width="640" /></a>
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One can also spot the statue of the legendary <span style="background-color: yellow;"><b>Joseph Strauss</b>;</span> the brilliant designer who was responsible behind this world renowned suspension bridge.<br />
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<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/10663151@N00/14412844071" title="P1290505_Fotor by AngelstarChristy, on Flickr"><img alt="P1290505_Fotor" height="640" src="https://farm6.staticflickr.com/5512/14412844071_0d15d72765_o.jpg" width="409" /></a></div>
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The bridge stands as an icon of the city of San Francisco, with views of the city and also a speck in the background which is the famous <b>Alcatraz Island </b>(where the prison was once situated).<br />
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<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/10663151@N00/14436385583" title="P1290462_Fotor by AngelstarChristy, on Flickr"><img alt="P1290462_Fotor" height="410" src="https://farm4.staticflickr.com/3865/14436385583_c1da671d29_o.jpg" width="640" /></a><br />
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Having been featured in one too many media; from films, movies, books, it goes to show that the world can never get too much of the characteristic bridge.<br />
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The <b>Golden Gate Bridge</b> is the picture of <b>San Francisco</b>, in all its stark contrast of bold red standing in might and dignity; painting that picture perfect postcard for the famous city.<br />
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<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/10663151@N00/14416185455" title="P1290521_Fotor by AngelstarChristy, on Flickr"><img alt="P1290521_Fotor" height="301" src="https://farm3.staticflickr.com/2919/14416185455_2798f60131_o.jpg" width="640" /></a>
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With all its dues, <b><i>Golden Gate Bridge is definitely a star</i></b>.<br />
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<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/10663151@N00/14412842171" title="P1290473_Fotor by AngelstarChristy, on Flickr"><img alt="P1290473_Fotor" height="394" src="https://farm4.staticflickr.com/3837/14412842171_6f0d521ec3_o.jpg" width="640" /></a>
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That Is why, M<b>y dear sir</b>, this is not just <i><b>any</b></i> bridge :-)<br />
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<br />Christina Kimhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11812903022397709758noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5867444051122615720.post-15221383252792417232014-06-06T07:54:00.000-07:002015-10-13T06:11:06.539-07:00The City by the Bay - San Francisco<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/10663151@N00/14355308572" title="P1290467_Fotor by AngelstarChristy, on Flickr"><img alt="P1290467_Fotor" height="427" src="https://farm3.staticflickr.com/2909/14355308572_d7a9b3b151_o.jpg" width="640" /></a><br />
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<b style="background-color: yellow;">San Francisco</b> is known by its many nicknames; from "<i>Fog City</i>", "<i>The City That Knows How</i>", "<i>The Golden City</i>", "<i>The Golden Gate City</i>" to being compared to the other famous cities such as "<i>Baghdad by the Bay</i>" or even "<i>Paris of the West</i>", or just simply referred to fondly as <b><i>San Fran</i></b>, this is definitely "<b><i>Everybody's Favorite City</i></b>".<br />
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Located on the <b>West Coast of the United States of America</b>, San Francisco and at the north end of the San Francisco Peninsula, the metropolis also encompasses part of the Pacific Ocean and the San Francisco Bay with a land area coverage of 46.9 square miles (121 square kilometers).</div>
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The city's strategic location overlooks a few famous and picturesque islands such as the <b>Treasure Island, Alcatraz</b> (where the famous prison was once located), and a few other islands, just to name a few, besides being obviously surrounded by the sea to form its unique bay location.</div>
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Besides the bay and islands, San Francisco is also a hilly city and it is no wonder this city is so famous for its hills as there are more than 50 hills alone in the city. That would probably attribute to the reason behind the hilly roads and landscape of the entire city; and most of the neighborhoods also found their names from the hills on which they are located.</div>
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It is not surprising to see the topography of the streets being generally sloped; and even more interesting is the houses which are located along these unusually sharp gradients on some of the streets, if not all.<br />
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I can only imagine their challenges in getting their cars in and out of the houses, and also during the early construction of the residential homes in this city.<br />
Already a hilly city to begin with, the city owe some of its inclining roads with the steep gradients to the active earth movement which leads to the earthquakes in the city; though not on a daily basis.<br />
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The hills, the bay, and a lovely climate are just the few reasons to boost the tourism here in San Francisco. Popular with tourists and locals alike, San Francisco has more to boast than just its natural topography and geographical factor, as the city woos with the eclectic charms stored in the many attractions all within the county. It leaves little to wonder then about the statistics of the county which lands itself as the <b>second most densely populated city in the United States</b>, and also the <b>4th most populous city in the state of California</b>; and the <b>14th most populous in the entire country</b>.<br />
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<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/10663151@N00/14165903029" title="P1290321_Fotor by AngelstarChristy, on Flickr"><img alt="P1290321_Fotor" height="427" src="https://farm3.staticflickr.com/2930/14165903029_16de1aef83_o.jpg" width="640" /></a><br />
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It is in fact the density of the city which one would first be greeted with upon entering the city from the freeway; and also the aerial view from the plane as one flies into the borders of this county, a definite living proof of the large population gathered here and that the city is indeed in favor as a favorite place to settle down.<br />
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<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/10663151@N00/14354423662" title="P1290608_Fotor by AngelstarChristy, on Flickr"><img alt="P1290608_Fotor" height="427" src="https://farm6.staticflickr.com/5498/14354423662_5a94f15eaf_o.jpg" width="640" /></a><br />
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There is just so much to love about San Francisco; from the wonderful and kind climate which sends the cool air into the typically hot summer weather, to the unique slants on the roads and the view of the sea everywhere one goes, the natural qualities are already drawing the attention of potential home settlers, besides luring the avid tourists to the lair of this densely populated county.<br />
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<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/10663151@N00/14352681621" title="P1290621_Fotor by AngelstarChristy, on Flickr"><img alt="P1290621_Fotor" height="427" src="https://farm4.staticflickr.com/3853/14352681621_53ab99b68f_o.jpg" width="640" /></a><br />
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The melting pot of a variety of culture resulting from the migrating communities; particularly the Chinese, which formed the largest single ethnic minority group, along with the other Asian groups comprising of the Filipinos, Vietnamese, Cambodians, Thais, Laotians, Koreans, Japanese, Mongolians, Indonesians, etc, San Francisco is truly a place splattered with the unique mix of colorful cultures which paints the city with its unique identity.<br />
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<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/10663151@N00/14355183984" title="P1290898_Fotor by AngelstarChristy, on Flickr"><img alt="P1290898_Fotor" height="427" src="https://farm3.staticflickr.com/2896/14355183984_7a6c305042_o.jpg" width="640" /></a><br />
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With the large community of the Chinese and also the Asians forming the minorities in the city, <b>Chinatown</b> is just a customary area to gather all these regional migrants and settlers in one place in particular and became one of the main tourist attractions in the city. It is not surprising to find Chinatown everywhere though; as the Chinese population are indeed widespread around the world, and almost every major city in the world would have their very own Chinatown.<br />
The Oriental style of the shops, and the street decorations, and of course, the Chinese characters on the sign boards are sure telltale signs that one is in Chinatown and this very Chinatown in San Francisco is home to not just the Chinese but also the other ethnicities from Asia.<br />
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<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/10663151@N00/14169408638" title="P1290663_Fotor by AngelstarChristy, on Flickr"><img alt="P1290663_Fotor" height="427" src="https://farm6.staticflickr.com/5551/14169408638_3ec436bba7_o.jpg" width="640" /></a><br />
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The trams, the famous Pier 39, the much visited Alcatraz island where the former prison was located, the unique topography of the streets, and the iconic Golden Gate Bridge are among the many attractions listed in San Francisco.<br />
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A city formerly associated with gold; and prospered quickly due to the <b>California Gold Rush</b> back in the year <b>1849</b>, which earned another of its well-known nickname among the Chinese during that time as the "<i>Gold Mountain</i>" and many would flock to this place to find opportunities to establish their own fortune. Its almost instantaneous growth due to the Gold Rush also made it <b>the largest city on the West Coast</b> then.<br />
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<b>San Francisco</b> is derived from a <b><i>Spanish word for Saint Francis</i></b>; associated with the mission of the Spanish for the <b>St Francis of Assisi</b> and also for the purpose of colonization when they established a <b>fort at the Golden Gate</b>, which led to the founding and early beginning of the city in the year <b>1776</b>.<br />
It may have started with the Spanish mission, but a stroke of luck and the natural potential of the land spiked the rapid growth of the city which sustained until this very day as it continues to grow in both popularity and population.<br />
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<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/10663151@N00/14356054755" title="P1290883_Fotor by AngelstarChristy, on Flickr"><img alt="P1290883_Fotor" height="427" src="https://farm3.staticflickr.com/2927/14356054755_7bbbb76d69_o.jpg" width="640" /></a><br />
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It is one of the <b>major cities in the United States</b> and is recognized as one of the important business, investment and financial capitals with five leading banking corporations setting up their headquarters in this very city along with a few of other prominent social media and retail organizations.<br />
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Even a tourist like me loved every bit of the city upon landing my feet here on the first half of the day and is there still a question mark to why this is known as "<b><i>Everybody's Favorite City</i></b>"?<br />
It is indeed a lovable city, which warms up to anyone who visits and embraces those who call it home, conjuring images of wonderful memories to stir that yearning to return to this city.<br />
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<b><i>San Fran, is truly a beautiful place to live in and it is also my very own favorite city~</i></b><br />
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To be continued with the attractions of San Francisco...</div>
Christina Kimhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11812903022397709758noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5867444051122615720.post-35561601202189305292014-06-05T07:52:00.002-07:002014-06-05T07:52:29.045-07:00Scenes from the US Highways<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/10663151@N00/14164671697" title="IMG_1175_Fotor by AngelstarChristy, on Flickr"><img alt="IMG_1175_Fotor" height="480" src="https://farm6.staticflickr.com/5495/14164671697_9a55167a0f_o.jpg" width="640" /></a>
Traveling from one place to another along the same geographical area can be relatively convenient with the well-established highways and freeway system in the United States.<br />
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One can easily be in one state today and in another state the next day after probably a couple of hours on the road; or perhaps the term 'couple of hours' could be an understatement as most of the road trips could take up to five hours or more. The longest I have personally traveled on the road while in the United States was a total of seven to eight hours; from the state of Arizona to Los Angeles, and that is along the same western coast of the country, mind you.<br />
It goes without saying that the road trips would make more sense when one is traveling across the states along the same coast and within the reasonable distance.<br />
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<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/10663151@N00/14164671017" title="P1290203_Fotor by AngelstarChristy, on Flickr"><img alt="P1290203_Fotor" height="427" src="https://farm3.staticflickr.com/2896/14164671017_9c063abdb2_o.jpg" width="640" /></a>
While it may sound like a long and boring journey, I personally can vouch for my own experience that it was definitely far from boring as I was entertained by the beautiful scenes of nature popping up animatedly throughout the journey. Perhaps it is also my own preference that I am fond of traveling on the road; be it driving on the highways or just enjoying the ride as a passenger, I do like road trips (yes, I am way past that point of getting car sick).<br />
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The scenes of nature can be such reassuring images; calm, peaceful, serene, they are just the things one would need to take the troubles out of one's mind as these amazing wonders continue to mesmerize and captivate our attention while at the same time, soothe the mind.<br />
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<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/10663151@N00/14350302354" title="IMG_1172_Fotor by AngelstarChristy, on Flickr"><img alt="IMG_1172_Fotor" height="480" src="https://farm3.staticflickr.com/2929/14350302354_2ed0aa3f9e_o.jpg" width="640" /></a><br />
I love these moving pictures which just changes with a wave of the wind (not wand) as we whiz down the road, in what seems to be like a well-coordinated and staged art of cinematography.<br />
There are just so many things to see, and while one may see them as just the same scenes of mountains, trees, plants, hills, oasis, and the sun, I see them as pictures of serenity and harmony; all interwoven together to form that breathtaking piece known as Mother Nature.<br />
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<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/10663151@N00/14164559100" title="P1290246_Fotor by AngelstarChristy, on Flickr"><img alt="P1290246_Fotor" height="427" src="https://farm3.staticflickr.com/2923/14164559100_3becaf9063_o.jpg" width="640" /></a>
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While the scenes may seem like they are similar along the journey, there are also different images as we drive through the small towns, outskirts and across the mountainous or even coastal areas.<br />
From farms to plantations and forest reserves, these are just a few to mention of the local scenes spotted on our journey traveling on the road.<br />
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<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/10663151@N00/14164482609" title="P1290258_Fotor by AngelstarChristy, on Flickr"><img alt="P1290258_Fotor" height="427" src="https://farm6.staticflickr.com/5555/14164482609_68ddb7b897_o.jpg" width="640" /></a>
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Perhaps it is the different country or region, which makes it a refreshing experience for us, or for me personally. Every scene has a story to tell, and I enjoy the stories each of them is trying to convey to me through the window pane.<br />
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The only thing I noticed is that the highways are not as friendly as our local Malaysian highways; established with R&R stops along the way and there is only a gas station after a long distance, although there are the occasional towns popping up but sometimes, there are just none and that is when I could not help comparing to our very own highways back home, which are also, by the way, filled with our very own tropical scenes.<br />
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Still, there is always beauty in everything we see around the world as God works his great wonders everywhere.<br />
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<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/10663151@N00/14371338333" title="IMG_1100_Fotor by AngelstarChristy, on Flickr"><img alt="IMG_1100_Fotor" height="480" src="https://farm6.staticflickr.com/5540/14371338333_ff6cdf3c0d_o.jpg" width="640" /></a><br />
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<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/10663151@N00/14164666967" title="P1290207_Fotor by AngelstarChristy, on Flickr"><img alt="P1290207_Fotor" height="427" src="https://farm4.staticflickr.com/3881/14164666967_e583319c05_o.jpg" width="640" /></a><br />
<br />Christina Kimhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11812903022397709758noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5867444051122615720.post-88870296686333928132014-05-30T00:50:00.001-07:002015-10-13T06:11:30.262-07:00Living It Up in Beverly Hills<a href="http://www.directupload.net/" target="_blank"><img src="http://s14.directupload.net/images/140530/i9k7cmgc.jpg" height="396" title="Kostenlos Bilder und Fotos hochladen" width="640" /></a><br />
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<span style="background-color: yellow;"><u><b>Beverly Hills</b>,</u></span> or more fondly known merely by one of its prominent and primary post code made famous by the tv series, <b style="background-color: yellow;">90210</b>, is another star in the <b>City of Angels (Los Angeles)</b>.<br />
Known for its highly publicized and affluent neighborhood which was said to be home to many of the celebrities, Beverly Hills is definitely more than just your usual district in the county of the <b>California</b> state.<br />
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<b><u>History of Beverly Hills</u></b><br />
The home to the rich and famous, as it is often referred to in a casual manner, Beverly Hills also had her own simple story to tell of its early days when it began as a land or rather, a Spanish plantation/ranch for growing the lima beans. The area was also originally thought to be a prosperous land, and a potential oil field by a group of investors interested in that area. However, oil was not found in their exploration of the land but it was water that they found, and since then, they decided to develop the land into a residential town instead.<br />
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Today, Beverly Hills is home to more than 30,000 population and rose to such prominent status due to its close location to Hollywood and cities of Los Angeles and thanks to the producers who came up with the highly acclaimed tv series watched by all around the world featuring this city.<br />
The TV series was originally <b><i>Beverly Hills 90210</i></b>, which was first broadcasted in the 1980s and following its popularity of the series, there was another version of the remake, named <b><i>90210</i></b>, produced in the last few years.<br />
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With the hefty tag of being an affluent township, it is no surprise that the town housed one of the most renowned retail district, <b><u style="background-color: yellow;">Rodeo Drive</u></b>. Celebrities and famous figures in the movie industry can often be spotted in this area, which is home to most of the world famous luxury designer brands.<br />
Rodeo Drive is definitely an upscale shopping district, and there is nothing short of luxury when one walks down the high end streets of this area.<br />
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Besides the celebrities and high end retail reputation, Beverly Hills is also home to a large and still active oil field; the <b><u style="background-color: yellow;">Beverly Hills Oil Field</u></b>. Yes, there was oil after all in this piece of land and is definitely prospering well from this oil field which was discovered in the year 1900 and spans underneath the city of Beverly Hills to some parts of Los Angeles.<br />
Read all about it here in <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Beverly_Hills_Oil_Field">Wikipedia</a><br />
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The city of Beverly Hills is indeed designed in an upper class manner and definitely a city that lives it up to its reputation with its chic urban lifestyle depicted here through the scenes seen in the city.<br />
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This is truly one stylish neighborhood; and one will definitely be living it up in style and sophistication (or even feel like it) in this prominent city.<br />
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All we need now is that familiar tune of the theme music from Beverly Hills (the TV series) to play in the background to complete the picture~<br />
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<br />Christina Kimhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11812903022397709758noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5867444051122615720.post-37251594776788836012014-05-29T19:28:00.002-07:002015-10-13T06:11:47.472-07:00The Hollywood Story<a href="http://www.directupload.net/" target="_blank"><img src="http://s14.directupload.net/images/140530/qbsfjl2j.jpg" height="427" title="Kostenlos Bilder und Fotos hochladen" width="640" /></a><br />
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<b>Hollywood</b>, a name that we have come to know so well from the movies we have watched on the screens and the mere mention of it brings to mind the picture of glamour, style, fame and glittering moments on the red carpet. It is no secret that Hollywood is the representation of the motion pictures industry in the United States which many longed (from their screens) to be a part of all that fame and celebrity lifestyle with the glitz and spotlights shining on them.<br />
Hollywood is definitely known for its entertainment hub; with the movie studios and galas taking place in this very location every year.<br />
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Located in the central region of <b>Los Angeles</b>, Hollywood is a district with a humble beginning. Starting from an agricultural past, the area slowly bloomed under the direction of <b>H.J. Whitley</b>, who had also became known as the founder, or fondly referred to as the <b><i>"Father of Hollywood"</i></b> when he first purchased a 500-acre land and planned for the development and resale of the land. In the age when the real estate business embarked on its early period of boom in late 1887, it was when Hollywood showed signs of minor growth.<br />
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The name <b><i>"Hollywood"</i></b> was coined by <b>Daeida Wilcox Beveridge</b>, who was also known as the <b><i>"Mother of Hollywood"</i></b>; a co-owner of a ranch located in the eastern part adjacent to the district. It was probably inspired by her neighbor in <i>Holly Canyon (now known as Lake Hollywood) </i>and she wasted no time in recommending the name to her husband, <b>Harvey H. Wilcox</b> who then filed it with the Los Angeles County Recorder's office when he sold the property, naming the place "Hollywood".<br />
Daeida Wilcox was a well-established investor in her time, and was coincidentally a friend of Whitley (the Father of Hollywood).<br />
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Who would have thought that the place would today be one of the most talked-about place in the world, and even an important representation of the movie industry in the entire country and the world?<br />
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Despite the small population they have back then in the 1870, Hollywood became a municipality in 1903 and then eventually merged with the city of Los Angeles in the year 1910 where the film industry started to pave their way in, making them today, the capital of entertainment.<br />
Hollywood is today, the 7th most dense city in the county of Los Angeles, and is truly a melting pot of multiple ethnicities and diversified backgrounds. Besides entertainment, Hollywood is also varied in its economic sectors and flourished as one of the major retail business hubs in the country.<br />
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It is no surprise that Hollywood is home to affluent communities and also buzzing with the movie icons and filmmakers who are often spotted in the district; owing to the fact that the district is also filled with the movie studios. In fact, some of the movie studios have come a long way and have even become part of the historical background which made up the history of the district.<br />
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<b><u>Hollywood Sign</u></b><br />
The famous <b style="background-color: yellow;">Hollywood sign</b>, located on <b>Mount Lee in Hollywood Hills of the Santa Monica </b>mountains is today a major tourist attraction and it is so famous that it has become an iconic landmark for the city of Los Angeles.<br />
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While many would probably dream of standing next to the lettered-sign to capture that jubilant moment of being in Hollywood, it is probably disappointing to learn that the sign is not accessible as it is situated on a rough and steep terrain on the part of the hill and is barricaded with alarm systems set to be triggered upon any unauthorized access which would have the local police notified immediately.<br />
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<b><u>History of Hollywood Sign</u></b><br />
It is interesting to note that the sign was initially made to state <b><i>"Hollywoodland"</i></b> in a marketing effort to introduce a new housing estate in the hills above Hollywood district of Chinatown, in the year 1923. The sign, in its early state was constructed to be 30 feet (9.1m) in width and 50 feet (15m) in height; along with an approximate of 4,000 light bulbs studs to light up the sign. The intention was to partition the sign into three segments; with HOLLY, WOOD, and LAND to be lighted up individually alternatively and in sequence, before lighting us a whole sign, in a design conceived by Thomas Fisk Golf, the owner of the sign company.<br />
The total cost of the project was about $21,000 at that time, and the sign was initially planned to be placed for only a year and a half, for the duration of the development of the housing project but as fate would have it, the sign was retained and eventually became an iconic landmark sign until this very day following the emergence of the movie industry in the United States which continue to flourish and grow.<br />
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The sign has also been through many incidents in which the letter H was destroyed in an accident caused by the sign's official caretaker himself, Albert Kothe when his car crashed off the cliff; destroying the car and the letter, leaving Albert Kothe uninjured.<br />
Following the incident, measures were taken and discussions were made to restore the sign in 1949, between the Hollywood Chamber of Commerce and the City of Los Angeles Parks Department in a contract which states that the word "LAND" would be removed to reflect the identity of the district instead of the housing estate project. The light bulbs were also removed at the decision of the Chamber of the Commerce who were supposed to maintain the costs of the lighting and hence, the new sign, Hollwood, sans the word "LAND" and lights was constructed and remained until this very day.<br />
This sign was also marked as the site associated with the death of a starlet; <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Peg_Entwistle">Peg Entwhistle</a> in 1932, when she committed suicide by jumping off the letters at the age of 24.<br />
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The crowds would usually gather at the peak in the quiet and affluent neighborhood; to catch a glimpse of the iconic sign and to take photos, which led to major traffic congestion in the area, to the displeasure of the local residents. This have raised various issues of controversy over the sign as residents complain about the flocking of tourists to an area which is clearly not designed for crowds and posed much inconveniences to their local community. Furthermore, the steep hilly area with narrow winding turns could pose a safety hazard to large tour buses and vehicles thronging the area.<br />
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I could empathize with the sentiments raised with the residents, and hopefully, there would be a good solution to end the residents' woes in the near future.<br />
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Hollywood is indeed a place where most dream to be, with its buzz of glamour and glitz, and even I myself could not believe the surreal experience of finally being here; of course, sans the Academy Awards and floor sweeping gowns, but still a memorable experience and yes, the sign is living proof that one is finally here.<br />
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<b>*The Academy Awards continue to be held here every year; in the months of February/March since the year 2004.</b><br />
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Hollywood, is truly the capital of Entertainment....and will continue to live it up to its reputation and legacy~<br />
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<br />Christina Kimhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11812903022397709758noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5867444051122615720.post-29042211238849919182014-05-24T05:19:00.004-07:002015-10-13T06:12:30.461-07:00Universal Studios Hollywood - Where Movie Entertainment Lives<a href="http://www.directupload.net/" target="_blank"><img src="http://s1.directupload.net/images/140524/3vbbs7km.jpg" height="427" title="Kostenlos Bilder und Fotos hochladen" width="640" /></a><br />
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Known as "<b><i>The Entertainment Capital of LA</i></b>", the <b><u style="background-color: yellow;">Universal Studios Hollywood</u></b> is no longer a stranger to anyone in the world. While many are accustomed to the existence of <b>Universal Studios</b> sprouting in various locations around the world, this particular one in Los Angeles remains one of the most prominent, not to mention on the list of one of the most visited tourist attractions around the world.<br />
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The famous movie studio and filming location site is one of the oldest to exist and is still in use till this very day. It is not hard to imagine why, as the name Hollywood is synonymous with movies, celebrities, fame and glamour as fed to most of us around the world in the trendy showbiz which have been in existence for so long, as far as any of us can remember.<br />
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Today, the mention of <b><i>Hollywood</i></b> still brings to our mind the glamorous moments of the celebrities walking down the red carpet and posing for the photographs while clicks and flashes go off in a frenzy while we watch from our televisions at home. The visuals can do wonders in the mind; and hence, the image of glittering moments are embedded as our mind works remarkably at associating the images with the term, and automatically, Hollywood; it is the place where movies and social excitement reside, at its highest point of brilliance and right in the spotlight.<br />
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It is for this exact reason that the people behind <b>Universal Studios </b>came up with the idea of a grand entrance with the iconic red carpet leading to the main gate for visitors to enjoy that momentary thrill of being a movie star; to strut on that well-acclaimed walk of fame just like the celebrated idols most have dreamt so much about. It is almost customary to pose for a photo when you are here, simply because you're living a dream; even if it just for a few seconds, or make it minutes.<br />
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I have not been to the other Universal Studios around the world; no, not even the one closest to home, the recent site being in Singapore, mainly because I have always wanted to visit this particular site first. After all, it is termed <b><i>'The Entertainment Capital</i></b>' and also '<b><i>The Coolest Place in LA</i></b>'; both the much publicized advertising tag lines for <b><u>Universal Studios Hollywood</u></b>.<br />
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Located in <b>Universal City in the Los Angeles country of California State, United States of America</b>, the Universal Studios Hollywood is also the <b>First movie studio recreational theme park </b>around the world. While the site was understandably a filming site; with studio and filming sets set up across its land, Universal Studios Hollywood was originally intended as an introduction to the movie filming, sound stages set up and access to the actual filming sets through its customized tour packages to offer visitors a glimpse of movie making and production, since the year 1964.<br />
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This gradually revolved and grew into a recreational theme park over the years, following the reception of the public and also the blooming minds of the creative folks running the place.<br />
Thanks to their creativity that we can now enjoy and be thrilled with the wonderful insights we get from directly accessing the filming sets and locations available on this very site, while also be entertained with the rides and moments with the appearances of some of our favorite animation characters here.<br />
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The memorable and animated <b><u><a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Woody_Woodpecker">Woody Woodpecker</a></u></b>; which was created since the 1940s, is an iconic and much-loved character with whom most of us are familiar with the sounds of his pecking(adorably so), is also interestingly named the <b>mascot of the Universal Studios Hollywood</b>.<br />
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With the mascot, <b>Woody Woodpecker</b> and his recognizably, significant other, <b>Winnie</b> (in case you're not aware, yes, Woody's taken!)<br />
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Like most theme parks, Universal Studios Hollywood is a land filled with much enjoyable and entertaining attractions to look out for. From spotting costumed characters of familiar animation and movie icons to the thrilling movie-themed rides and museums, there is just something to fit everyone's preference and to keep one happy while on the park.<br />
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One of the most recommended would be the <b><u style="background-color: yellow;">Studio Tour</u></b>; which is probably the emblematic ride for an insightful experience into the world of movie making right here in Hollywood.<br />
Visitors would embark on an approximately hour's tram ride which takes them around the backstage lots and filming locations; while witnessing some of the special effects taking place and the 3D motion pictures unraveling in some of the locations. Enjoy the ride, and be prepared to laugh to the animated tour's guide narration while on the tram and also, be ready to be thrilled with the exciting events unraveled on this tour.<br />
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Movie-themed rides are also the crowd drawing attractions here; and some of the more memorable ones(may differ according to personal preferences) based on the highly-acclaimed movies are as follows:-<br />
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<b><u style="background-color: yellow;">Transformers: The Ride</u></b><br />
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<b><u style="background-color: yellow;">Revenge of the Mummy</u></b><br />
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<b><u style="background-color: yellow;">Jurassic Park: The Ride</u></b><br />
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The above rides impose the height and age restrictions due to the level of excitement which may be deemed unsuitable for young toddlers and children.<br />
(Also, some of the rides such as Revenge of the Mummy and Jurassic Park also restricts bags to be carried on the rides and there are locker facilities provided in a designated area for visitors to store their belongings for free (within an allocated time) or for a minimal fee).<br />
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However, Universal Studios Hollywood is not all about the adults as back on the upper lot of the theme park, there are various animation-themed parks which are bound to fascinate the younger ones.<br />
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<b><u style="background-color: yellow;">The Simpson Ride</u></b><br />
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<b><u style="background-color: yellow;">Shrek 4D</u></b><br />
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There are also <b>dry and water theme parks</b> created for the enjoyment of the young children.<br />
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Another attraction not to miss out is the <b><u style="background-color: yellow;">Special Effects Stage</u></b>, which is an enlightening session on the revelation of the secrets and tricks involved in the making of the blockbuster movies.<br />
Do be there early, as the studio is packed to the brim with the eager crowds, and who wouldn't want to know what really happens behind those fantastic images we often wonder about on the screens?<br />
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Enjoy exploring the Universal Studios Hollywood on foot, to take in the various scenes unfolding at the different themed-location sites.<br />
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Be prepared to recognize/bump into familiar and lovable costumed characters on the streets, and when you do, just smile at the camera and take a picture!<br />
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There is simply something for everyone in <b>Universal Studios Hollywood</b>, and the best is that one can enjoy an entertaining yet exhilarating experience in a place where the spotlight shines on and one have long imagined from the screens and have harbored hopes of living that lifestyle.<br />
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Yes, <b>Universal Studios Hollywood</b> is not just an ordinary theme park;<b><i> it is a lifestyle and it is where Movie Entertainment and fame lives~</i></b><br />
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For more information on <b>Universal Studios Hollywood</b>, kindly refer to their official website <a href="http://www.universalstudioshollywood.com/">here</a>.<br />
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<br />Christina Kimhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11812903022397709758noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5867444051122615720.post-235414941835446602014-05-20T02:45:00.001-07:002015-10-13T06:13:03.595-07:00A Magical Day at Disneyland (Anaheim, California) <div style="text-align: center;">
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The <b>First Disneyland</b> ever built and the only one which was built under the direct supervision of Mr. <b>Walt Disney</b> himself, is the <b>Disneyland</b> located in <b>Anaheim</b>, <b>California</b>.</div>
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Conceived by the bright mind of the great man himself following his visits to many amusement parks with his daughters, the concept of a recreational park promising thrills and happiness as well as being a major tourist attraction was well-established and Walt Disney saw to himself the overall progress of building the park until the completion. His dream of building a park for both adults and children to enjoy together came to mind as he watched his daughters enjoying the merry go round at an amusement park in Los Angeles, and after careful planning and construction, he finally had a park to call his own following his purchase of a 160-acre (65ha) site near Anaheim in 1953.</div>
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<b><u>Disneyland Anaheim, California</u> </b>officially opened its doors to public on <b>July 17, 1955</b> and is today on the list of the world's top and most visited tourist attractions. Formerly the only attraction on the site, it is now known as <b><u>Disneyland Park</u></b> following the expansion of the property to include another theme park; California Adventure Park in the 1990s.<br />
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However, Disneyland Park still remained the crowd magnet, evident from the large crowds queueing outside the premises awaiting for the gates to be opened every day; including weekdays.</div>
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I am a big fan of Disney; and has always been since I was a child. I blame it on my parents who have been filling my childhood with images and live characters from Disney; who have been portraying the perfect and magical dream every child could have dreamt of.<br />
I have watched almost every single animation released from Disney, and my dream was to visit Disneyland someday. I have, in fact, visited the one in Hong Kong (read <a href="http://christytraveblogue.blogspot.com/2007/11/day-2-dim-sum-disneyland.html">here</a> and <a href="http://christytraveblogue.blogspot.com/2007/11/disneyland-part-2-food-and-fun-rides.html">here</a>) but I knew that nothing would beat the original Disneyland, or the very first in California where it was the brainchild of the great man himself.<br />
(Don't get me wrong, the Disneylands around the world are all great, and they have all been conceptualized to be exactly the same replicas but it is just a personal aim to be at the original and very first site of Disneyland).<br />
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<i>The iconic scene at the main entrance as one steps into Disneyland</i><br />
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<b><u>Disneyland Park in Anaheim</u></b>; part of Orange County (O.C) in California consists of <b><u>eight</u></b> theme parks; <b>Main Street USA, Adventureland, Frontierland, Fantasyland, Tomorrowland</b> which were part of the original park when it was opened in the year 1955. The park expanded with the addition of <b>New Orleans Square, Bear Country (later known as Critter's Country)</b>, and <b>Mickey's Toontown.</b><br />
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<i><b><u style="background-color: yellow;">Main Street USA</u></b></i><br />
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<i>Shops on Main Street USA</i><br />
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A statue built in memory of the founder, Walt Disney and the world's most famous mouse; Mickey Mouse<br />
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The ever famous and magical <b><u>Sleeping Beauty Castle</u></b> (many have mistaken this for the Cinderella's Castle) is the entrance to <b><u style="background-color: yellow;">Fantasyland</u></b><br />
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The buildings and cottages we are so familiar with in the fairytales are all found in <b><u>Fantasyland</u></b><br />
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I love carousels; there is always something magical about them and I didn't care if anyone were to call me a big kid. I would always, always be excited to see a carousel, and I think I will still have a go at one even if I am an old lady!<br />
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Look who I met in Disneyland!<br />
Alice and Mad Hatter were just so friendly :-)<br />
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And the boy who never grows up, Peter Pan!<br />
(I do not feel like growing up either here :-P )<br />
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<b><u style="background-color: yellow;">Mickey's Toontown</u></b></div>
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This has got to be my personal favorite park, and it is not hard to understand why as this is the park filled with all the earliest characters I have known from Disney and they are every child's greatest and happiest friends!</div>
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<b>Pluto :-)</b><br />
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<b>My Love, Mickey Mouse!! </b><span style="background-color: white; color: #545454; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: x-small; line-height: 18px;">♥</span><span style="background-color: white; color: #545454; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: x-small; line-height: 18px;">♥</span><span style="background-color: white; color: #545454; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: x-small; line-height: 18px;">♥</span><span style="background-color: white; color: #545454; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: x-small; line-height: 18px;">♥</span><span style="background-color: white; color: #545454; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: x-small; line-height: 18px;">♥</span><span style="background-color: white; color: #545454; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: x-small; line-height: 18px;">♥</span></div>
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Mickey was definitely affectionate! :-)</div>
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Mickey's Home</div>
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With the Love of Mickey's life, the ever sweet <b>Minnie Mouse</b>! <span style="background-color: white; color: #545454; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: x-small; line-height: 18px;">♥</span><span style="background-color: white; color: #545454; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: x-small; line-height: 18px;">♥</span><span style="background-color: white; color: #545454; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: x-small; line-height: 18px;">♥</span><span style="background-color: white; color: #545454; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: x-small; line-height: 18px;">♥</span><span style="background-color: white; color: #545454; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: x-small; line-height: 18px;">♥</span><span style="background-color: white; color: #545454; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: x-small; line-height: 18px;">♥</span><br />
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<b>Goofy!</b><br />
(He kept running around the whole Toontown, it was really hard to catch him for this photo! :-)<br />
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Mickey is truly everywhere in his own Toontown~<br />
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<b><u style="background-color: yellow;">Frontierland</u></b><br />
Enjoy a good ride on<b> Mark Twain's Riverboat</b> with a view of the Pirate's Lair on <b>Tom Sawyer Island</b><br />
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<b><u style="background-color: yellow;">New Orleans Square</u></b><br />
Haunted Mansion with a long queue leading to it<br />
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I bumped into <b>Princess Tiana</b> here; at the <b><u>Princess Tiana's Mardi Gras Celebration</u></b><br />
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Be back at the Main Street USA for the most popular <b><u style="background-color: yellow;">Main Street Parade</u></b> at the designated time (a few rounds throughout the day).</div>
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Watch all the favorite Disney characters in action as they take on the street with their live performances and in beautifully, colorfully decorated floats.</div>
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Stay on for the grand finale with the fireworks at night if you are up for it, always a spectacular show and a magnificent finish to the Disneyland tour~<br />
Need I say more?<br />
I love Disneyland, it is where dreams come true....<br />
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Now, when is my next Disneyland trip? *winks*<br />
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<br />Christina Kimhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11812903022397709758noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5867444051122615720.post-72915594637964106922014-05-20T02:43:00.002-07:002015-10-13T06:14:04.094-07:00Hotel Review: Hilton Garden Inn Anaheim<a href="http://www.directupload.net/" target="_blank"><img src="http://s7.directupload.net/images/140506/95n4dlyn.jpg" height="480" title="Kostenlos Bilder und Fotos hochladen" width="640" /></a><br />
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I have always been a fan of Hilton (and Marriott), and I have been a loyal member for years.<br />
Therefore it is no surprise that my first stay upon arrival would be in the Hilton Garden Inn, one of the hotels under the Hilton brand.<br />
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The skies were dark although it was barely seven in the evening; and with the cool breeze outside, I was looking forward to the welcoming warmth in the hotel.<br />
Checking in was brisk and it was a very homey ambiance in the hotel lobby.<br />
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The hotel still uses the key card system, but nevertheless, it is still pretty much the familiar sight of the cosy rooms in that good old Hilton style.<br />
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There is one thing about the beds and pillows in Hilton, they are always made to be comfortable and one can also request for the types of pillows as well in certain Hilton hotels and for their turndown service.<br />
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Hilton Garden Inn was a rather modest hotel; yet equipped with the basic amenities in the mini bar counter and also their bathroom which ensured a comfortable stay and staying true to the Hilton style.<br />
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Trust good old Hilton to engage reputable brands such as Neutrogena to provide the basic amenities from shower gels to shampoo and soaps.<br />
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While most hotels in US do not come with free breakfast, Hilton Garden Inn does in their own little dining area, with orders taken from the guests for pancakes, waffles, or eggs and served hot right from the kitchen.<br />
There is also the counter where one can help oneself to the fresh juices, yoghurt, fresh milk, muffins and fruits, along with pastries.<br />
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While the breakfast choices are not as luxurious as the international buffet spread, Hilton Garden Inn still serve the good old American breakfast with the availability of the hearty favorites loved by the locals.<br />
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The hospitality and the environment are just Hilton and if that is not the reason enough, how about the fact that it is located on the same street as the <b>Disneyland of Los Angeles</b>, and there is <b><u>free shuttle provided by the hotel to Disneyland</u></b>?<br />
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Hilton, as always, is home and hospitality at its best!~<br />
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<i>Note: This is not a sponsored post and I am not affiliated to the hotel. </i><br />
<i>All comments are purely based on personal experiences and opinions and may differ for individuals.</i><br />
<br />Christina Kimhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11812903022397709758noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5867444051122615720.post-29214242902685282192014-05-20T02:43:00.001-07:002014-05-20T02:43:46.596-07:00Flying with class, Singapore Airlines Business<a href="http://www.directupload.net/" target="_blank"><img src="http://s14.directupload.net/images/140506/vtuvmnuv.jpg" height="480" title="Kostenlos Bilder und Fotos hochladen" width="640" /></a><br />
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<b><i>There is always a silver lining beneath every cloud</i></b>, and that <b><i>everything happens for a reason</i></b> were just the two familiar phrases ringing in my mind as I was sitting at the lounge whiling time away, waiting for my flight, and for a good reason too, especially after the harrowing experience just the day before as I was about to get on my flight.<br />
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While it was definitely an unforgettable experience, it did make two of them as I could not believe that I was about to be boarding the flight and this time, seated in the business class section.<br />
It was about to my first experience, and one that I will not forget.<br />
(It may be common for many people who have been traveling business class for years, and may even chuckle at me :-) but I don't mind, as I will probably laugh at myself too years from now on).<br />
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Flying business class does not makes one rich, and it is also not all about the prestige and luxury but rather the comfort and the experience especially for the long haul flights; sometimes even<br />
Of course, it elevates one's status with the priority check-in counter designated for the Business and First Class flyers and also the business lounges available for these priority flyers on <b>Singapore Airlines operated flights</b>; the <b>Silver Kris Lounge</b> or the <b>Krisflyer Gold Lounge</b>.<br />
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<b>Silver Kris Lounge</b> is accessible for <b><u>Singapore Airlines Suites, First, Business Class and PPS club members</u></b> while the <b>Krisflyer Gold Lounge</b> is accessible for the <b><u>KrisFlyer Elite Gold Member on Singapore Airlines economy class</u></b>.<br />
(Requirements may differ for codeshare flights though).<br />
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<b><u style="background-color: yellow;">Silver Kris Lounge in KLIA (Kuala Lumpur International Airport)</u></b> is well-equipped with the basic facilities; from comfortable couches and Wi-Fi Access to the mini bar counter serving food and drinks, and washrooms/bathrooms to the racks filled with magazines and daily news. To top all that, there is the friendly and hospitable service from the staff to make your waiting time a pleasant one.<br />
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Enjoy the view of the daily scenes taking place at the airport while sipping the juices or typing away at your laptop as you relax in their comfy seats.<br />
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Boarding the plane was smooth and swift, as the moment the boarding commences, priority is given to the elderly, the infirm and those traveling with children for the economy class while the Suites, First, Business Class and PPS Club members are all free to board at their own convenience anytime.<br />
A different gate for access to the First and Business Class section for the short flight to Singapore.<br />
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Luxe leather seats, larger and more comfortable seat spacing and for one to stretch their legs are just the few things to enjoy at first glance.<br />
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The flight attendants are attentive as always (even in economy class), and they would be ready with fresh juices and beverages to serve the Business Class passengers while the other passengers are boarding the plane. It may be a short flight, but Singapore Airlines definitely took to note the comfort of their passengers with their hospitality.<br />
The refreshment snack served on my morning flight was the Croissant with seafood otak-otak; a common yet down-to-earth snack but served in a classy gourmet meal setting, complete with napkins and stainless steel cutlery.<br />
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The experience made the flight seemed shorter than usual, not to mention the first class service provided by the flight attendants.<br />
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However, the real deal came with the long haul flight which was truly a memorable experience and one with class with every detail being taken care of to make the long hours as comfortable as possible for us passengers.<br />
Larger and well-spaced seats promised more privacy to the passengers with their cube-like enclosures .<br />
Take note that the seat numbers are on the side rather than the top as in economy class, and the slightly encapsulated area of one's seat is a good idea for one to enjoy their movies, reading or even sleeping at their own comfort without feeling like they are being watched by everyone.<br />
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There is more than sufficient space for one's seat to recline in a graceful manner, in fact; the seat was designed to recline all the way to make a flat bed for one to sleep on.<br />
The space behind the seat; before it folds and flattens, stores the pillows and blankets reserved especially for the personal use of the seat owner.<br />
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There is also different sections in the tv screen panel in front; with USB ports and sockets for charging and for electronic devices use, alongside with a hook for hanging coat, vanity mirror with light, and a foldable and adjustable foot rest as shown below.<br />
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There are also additional compartments by the side (for window seats) to store their personal belongings in a tidy manner when one goes to sleep or during the flight.<br />
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When it comes to service with a class, Singapore Airlines proved that they are into the details with their aim to ensure their passengers enjoy a comfortable flight.<br />
It lies all in the details; from the design of the seats to the materials used and the space, to the special menu and the settings for a good dining experience which make all the difference for the Business Class (and I am sure it is even better in the First and Suites Class).<br />
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Nothing slips the mind of these folks behind Singapore Airlines, as each meal is served with proper settings and fine cutlery, and most importantly, with a smile by the friendly flight attendants.<br />
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The menu provided specially crafted meals by their very own chefs; who did an amazing job with the food selection and the presentation of each dish from the appetizers to the main course and the desserts.<br />
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Besides the main meals, there is also an all-day dining menu which offers tidbits and light snacks should one get hungry during the long flight.<br />
Just request from the flight attendant and they will be delighted to serve you; the same goes for the drinks with many being special signature concoctions exclusive to Singapore Airlines.<br />
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Singapore Airlines Sunrise Sling (or something like that)<br />
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It was truly a wonderful experience and I look forward to many more to come.<br />
Prices of the Business Class may be steep; with probably double the price that of economy, but the long haul flights promise a comfortable flight and a good rest throughout the flight.<br />
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Comfort, luxury, hospitality and class are all rolled into one on the Business Class of Singapore Airlines and is an exemplary standard to meet their passengers' requirements.<br />
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I am not in any way sponsored by Singapore Airlines to write this post, but just merely sharing my personal experience.<br />
I am also not against the Economy Class, as I fly on economy regularly and they are still good too and there is no lowering of standards in the economy class though one can expect the difference in the offering of the facilities, but generally they still strive very hard to meet all their passengers' requirements.<br />
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Now, did I also mention that there are also priority tags for the Business Class passengers' luggages? *winks*<br />
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*Note: This is not a sponsored post, and is just a personal experience. I am in no way affiliated with Singapore Airlines and am not against Economy Class flights which I do fly on a regular basis.<br />
Thank you.<br />
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<br />Christina Kimhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11812903022397709758noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5867444051122615720.post-79722339056145531102014-05-20T02:43:00.000-07:002014-05-20T02:43:22.967-07:00How I ended up on an ALL Business Class Flight<b><i>"Welcome to Los Angeles International Airport"</i></b>, the sign read as I stepped onto the escalator heading to the immigration counter. I was all smiles after a long flight which I spent almost an entire day on and it must have been evident as I approached the immigration officer.<br />
An elderly man who held up my passport to match it to my face, and while I was prepared to answer most of his questions, I certainly did not anticipate those that were to follow.<br />
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Officer: <i>How on earth did you get on this flight? It's an all business class flight!</i><br />
Me: *Smile* Erm, well, I had a bit of trouble with my earlier flight, which I had to cancel and with the limited time I had left, this was the flight which could fit my schedule.<br />
Officer: <i>You're here for business?</i><br />
Me: No, I am here to visit my husband who is based here for work.<br />
Officer: <i>So, do they like, have a swimming pool or a tennis court on the flight? I'm just wondering since this is one unique flight which is fully business class</i><br />
Me: *Laughs* None that I know of<br />
Officer: <i>*Laughs* I'm sure there must be something interesting on that flight, but sad to hear that they are going to terminate that flight soon. Guess with all that costs to maintain the flight, it might be hard to sustain the operations though...</i><br />
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Officer: <i>Anyway, Enjoy your trip and welcome to the United States of America!</i><br />
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It was certainly a warm and wonderful welcome from the cool-looking immigration officer and also the crisp air as I stepped out into the cool temperature in the late afternoon in the famous City of Angels, Los Angeles. The fresh air was definitely a delightful greeting, and as my mind switches to that of exhilaration and excitement for my upcoming plans, it did momentarily take away all the stress I had just about a day ago, before I boarded the plane bound for US.<br />
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I was not kidding when I said that I had a bit of trouble with my original flight, which, by the way, was not even in the business class category. I had booked the flight two weeks ago, flying coach on Cathay Pacific with multiple transits; Hong Kong, Vancouver and finally, the destination.<br />
I had checked all my traveling documents and also packed diligently, and was headed to KLIA on the day I was supposed to fly with excitement in my heart after enjoying a wonderful dinner with my family the night before.<br />
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As I approached the check-in counter, I was stunned when I was informed that I would not be allowed to board the flight as I did not have a Canadian visa.<br />
I stared at the ground staff; a lady who was rather impatient, and asked politely, "<i>But I am just there for transit.. and it's less than an hour"</i><br />
Lady:<i> I'm sorry, but this is the rules in Canada, even transiting passengers will need to have a visa</i><br />
Me: <i>But I am not entering Canada, I am still going to be in the airport; going from one gate to another!</i><br />
Lady: <i>Yes, unfortunately, based on the new requirements and legislations set by the Canadian government, all crew, passengers and even the luggages will need to be unloaded and screened through as they pass through Canada's airports</i><br />
Me: <i>When was this rule implemented?</i><br />
Lady: <i>Unfortunately, just two to three months ago. I'm sorry, I really cannot allow you on this flight because you will still not be allowed to board the next flight.</i><br />
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I did not blame her for the rules, and I was probably to blame for not verifying my travel details and to look into all these.<br />
I tried not to hold the line but I had to get further assistance from the staff on changing my flight schedule. There was not much help from her, as she just waved me away with the hotline to contact for my flight bookings, and that would be to talk to the Hongkie crew directly.<br />
I tried calling the hotline, but there was no one available and it was not even lunch hour!<br />
I was exasperated, and it was really frustrating with no one ready to assist us, and the lady earlier was deliberately trying to avoid eye contact.<br />
However, I was thankful for the man behind the business class counter of Cathay Pacific who beckoned to me and assisted me with my inquiries. Though I still had to make my phone call to the Hong Kong office, who were very friendly and helpful by the way, the man was still able to wait and attend to all my questions patiently.<br />
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Due to the conflicting times in the flight schedules for Cathay Pacific, I had to cancel my entire flight schedule with them which was taken care of by the staff in Hong Kong and I have to commend his efficiency and professional attitude in handling the entire issue. It was a really smooth process and he took care of everything; telling me not to worry at all about the flight and even hoped I would fly with them in the future. I definitely will, with service like this ;-)<br />
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I switched to my default and favorite international airline; Singapore Airlines and as most of the flights were booked, I was booked on the business class flight to United States since the fees for the flights were almost comparable to that of my original Cathay Pacific flight which I also booked at the very last minute. It was going to be my first business class flight, but what I didn't know was that my flight, SQ38, was going to be an ALL Business Class Flight.<br />
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Yes, it was all firsts; from flying Cathay Pacific, to canceling my first flight with them and to flying business class to being held at the airport and stranded at the airport, and well, not being able to board my flight, for the first time....<br />
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As they always say, there is always a first...for everything...<br />
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Note:<br />
<i>My personal thanks to the Hong Kong Cathay Pacific staff who helped me through the process and explained and even checked all available flights to meet my schedule.</i><br />
<i>You are one awesome airline crew who definitely made a difference to the image of the company, and to us passengers *Thumbs up*</i><br />
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<i><br /></i>Christina Kimhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11812903022397709758noreply@blogger.com0