tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-10069897743413088262024-03-07T11:34:10.122+08:00My Time Capsulewhen a picture speaks a thousand wordsDebbzie Leksonohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11633293406090733531noreply@blogger.comBlogger186125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1006989774341308826.post-90112748655052542412019-04-12T23:11:00.000+08:002019-04-12T23:11:49.076+08:00Užupis : The Peace-Loving Republic Vilnius, October 2017<br />
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"Did you know that if you stare into the eyes of the Užupis Mermaid, you will be under her spell and you will stay in this place forever?" Jolanta, my Lithuanian friend asked me.<br />
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"Mermaid? They have mermaid here?" I looked around excitedly. You know, mermaid is my favourite mythical creature besides unicorn and I have always wanted to be one when I was a kid. Few people could have guessed it when they saw my red hair.<br />
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Jolanta smiled mysteriously and said, "Let's meet her. But I can not help if you fall under her spell".<br />
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Previously, Jolanta has asked me whether any particular places I wanted to visit in Vilnius and I promptly replied I'd really love to visit the Republic of Užupis! Once home to a Jewish population decimated by Holocaust, this creative community of artists, musicians, and intellectuals declared independence from Lithuania in 1997. The residents celebrate their independence day annually on April 1 (yes, intentionally on April Fool's Day) and they named it the Užupis day. Despite its tiny area of less than 1 sq km within the Lithuanian capital of Vilnius, Užupis has its own president, government, currency, and interesting constitution. The President of the Republic of Užupis, Romas Lileikis himself is a poet, musician, and film director.<br />
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Fun fact: you can even get a visa stamped into your passport at their 'immigration office'. Let's cross the bridge to find out, shall we?<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">artsy piece everywhere </td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">the Mermaid of Užupis</td></tr>
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It began to drizzle when I walked on the bridge over the Vilnia River but it didn't slow me down. Jolanta pointed something under the bridge and there I was, face to face with the mermaid that she was talking about. The bronze mermaid was created by sculptor Romas Vilčiauskas and the local believe it's her who lures all the visitors from around the world. Those who surrender to her charm will remain in Užupis forever. The bare-chested, fish-tailed lady stared blankly into my eyes and I was expecting something to happen. I don't know...maybe I would turn into a stone? Wait a sec, I think I misunderstood the mermaid with Medusa's spell. I kept looking at her eyes for another minute, still nothing happened. Maybe she didn't want another mermaid to live there? I shrugged my shoulders and continued walking.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">main square</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">the Angel of Užupis</td></tr>
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Just a few minutes walking from the bridge and we already arrived at the central square where I saw a 9 metres high statue of Archangel Gabriel. The bronze Angel was also created by sculptor Romas Vilčiauskas and erected on the square in 2002. It's the Angel of Užupis, a symbol of growth and rebirth with his trumpet indicating a new free thinking age for the nation. The creative community also created their own version of holidays. One of them is the Day of White Tablecloths that celebrates around Easter. It is when the residents gather together at an outdoor terrace to share their Easter dinner leftovers. There's also the Days of Wind when they have concerts and events to keep their spirit up during the cold depressing winter in November. They sounds like a super fun people to be around, don't you think?<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">a republic where a dog has a right to be a dog</td></tr>
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If the mermaid can't convince you to stay then maybe their quirky constitution can. The constitution's 41 clauses has translated into more than 70 languages since it was created in July 1998. Dozens of the constitution in various languages are printed on large mirrored rectangles and hangs along the road known as the Avenue of Constitution.<br />
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Here's the clauses:<br />
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<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="background-color: white;">1. Everyone has the right to live by the River Vilnele, and the River Vilnele has the right to flow by everyone.</span><br style="background-color: white;" /><span style="background-color: white;">2. Everyone has the right to hot water, heating in winter and a tiled roof.</span><br style="background-color: white;" /><span style="background-color: white;">3. Everyone has the right to die, but this is not an obligation.</span><br style="background-color: white;" /><span style="background-color: white;">4. Everyone has the right to make mistakes.</span><br style="background-color: white;" /><span style="background-color: white;">5. Everyone has the right to be unique.</span><br style="background-color: white;" /><span style="background-color: white;">6. Everyone has the right to love.</span><br style="background-color: white;" /><span style="background-color: white;">7. Everyone has the right not to be loved, but not necessarily.</span><br style="background-color: white;" /><span style="background-color: white;">8. Everyone has the right to be undistinguished and unknown.</span><br style="background-color: white;" /><span style="background-color: white;">9. Everyone has the right to idle.</span><br style="background-color: white;" /><span style="background-color: white;">10. Everyone has the right to love and take care of the cat.</span><br style="background-color: white;" /><span style="background-color: white;">11. Everyone has the right to look after the dog until one of them dies.</span><br style="background-color: white;" /><span style="background-color: white;">12. A dog has the right to be a dog.</span><br style="background-color: white;" /><span style="background-color: white;">13. A cat is not obliged to love its owner, but must help in time of need.</span><br style="background-color: white;" /><span style="background-color: white;">14. Sometimes everyone has the right to be unaware of their duties.</span><br style="background-color: white;" /><span style="background-color: white;">15. Everyone has the right to be in doubt, but this is not an obligation.</span><br style="background-color: white;" /><span style="background-color: white;">16. Everyone has the right to be happy.</span><br style="background-color: white;" /><span style="background-color: white;">17. Everyone has the right to be unhappy.</span><br style="background-color: white;" /><span style="background-color: white;">18. Everyone has the right to be silent.</span><br style="background-color: white;" /><span style="background-color: white;">19. Everyone has the right to have faith.</span><br style="background-color: white;" /><span style="background-color: white;">20. No one has the right to violence.</span><br style="background-color: white;" /><span style="background-color: white;">21. Everyone has the right to appreciate their unimportance.</span><br style="background-color: white;" /><span style="background-color: white;">22. No one has the right to have a design on eternity.</span><br style="background-color: white;" /><span style="background-color: white;">23. Everyone has the right to understand.</span><br style="background-color: white;" /><span style="background-color: white;">24. Everyone has the right to understand nothing.</span><br style="background-color: white;" /><span style="background-color: white;">25. Everyone has the right to be of any nationality.</span><br style="background-color: white;" /><span style="background-color: white;">26. Everyone has the right to celebrate or not celebrate their birthday.</span><br style="background-color: white;" /><span style="background-color: white;">27. Everyone shall remember their name.</span><br style="background-color: white;" /><span style="background-color: white;">28. Everyone may share what they possess.</span><br style="background-color: white;" /><span style="background-color: white;">29. No one can share what they do not possess.</span><br style="background-color: white;" /><span style="background-color: white;">30. Everyone has the right to have brothers, sisters and parents.</span><br style="background-color: white;" /><span style="background-color: white;">31. Everyone may be independent.</span><br style="background-color: white;" /><span style="background-color: white;">32. Everyone is responsible for their freedom.</span><br style="background-color: white;" /><span style="background-color: white;">33. Everyone has the right to cry.</span><br style="background-color: white;" /><span style="background-color: white;">34. Everyone has the right to be misunderstood.</span><br style="background-color: white;" /><span style="background-color: white;">35. No one has the right to make another person guilty.</span><br style="background-color: white;" /><span style="background-color: white;">36. Everyone has the right to be individual.</span><br style="background-color: white;" /><span style="background-color: white;">37. Everyone has the right to have no rights.</span><br style="background-color: white;" /><span style="background-color: white;">38. Everyone has the right to not to be afraid.</span><br style="background-color: white;" /><span style="background-color: white;">39. Do not defeat.</span><br style="background-color: white;" /><span style="background-color: white;">40. Do not fight back.</span><br style="background-color: white;" /><span style="background-color: white;">41. Do not surrender.</span></span><br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">the Avenue of Constitution and the flag symbol</td></tr>
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A blue hand with a hole in the middle is the symbol of the Užupis flag which was designed by Valdas Neimantas and there's 4 different colours for every season. It is interpreted in many ways...most popular is that the palm symbolise friendship and the hole means the whole world which becomes not so important if you have a friend. The hole is also supposed to mean that it's unable to accept bribes or they have nothing to hide in their hands.<br />
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How to get to Užupis?<br />
There's actually some borders to enter this tiny republic from Vilnius and Jolanta took me to Uzupio Undinele or the main bridge. It was merely 5 minutes easy stroll from St. Anne's church in the Old Town of Vilnius towards the river. After crossing the bridge you will come across this red brick cafe (above picture) with an Užupis flag on it. If you want to get your passport stamped, head to the narrow path next to this cafe and walked until you find the souvenir shop a.k.a immigration office. Sadly it was closed when I got there so no passport stamp for me 😭<br />
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Would I recommend you to visit Užupis?<br />
Well if you are keen of bohemian vibes, laid-back atmosphere, free thoughts and smart jokes then it could be your Disneyland-kind-of place. It's good to know that despite living in this getting-too-crazy-too-chaos-too-fake world, there's this little dot where we can relax for a while, not to take life too seriously and be ourself. Heck, even a dog has the right to be a dog and everyone has the right to be happy....or unhappy if they wish so! I can't think of any country with a better constitution than this.<br />
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I'm signing off now to pack and to move to Užupis with all my doggos!<br />
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<br />Debbzie Leksonohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11633293406090733531noreply@blogger.com22tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1006989774341308826.post-42132229974486391862019-02-20T17:41:00.000+08:002019-02-20T17:41:26.920+08:00Myanmar: Chasing Sunrise In BaganBagan, November 2018<br />
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I think the word 'magical' is understatement to describe how stunning sunrises and sunsets in Bagan are. Like most visitors who plan to explore Bagan, I too did a little homework - searching where's the best places to watch sunrises and sunsets in Bagan. A lot of information I found are not so accurate anymore since now the officials prohibited the climbing of all pagodas in Bagan, the following month after some accidents including an American tourist fell to her death. It's understandable because these pagodas are nearly 1000 years old and have suffered a lot of natural disaster. Specially after nearly 400 pagodas were severely damaged in the massive earthquake in August 2016.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">the beginning of twilight before sunrise</td></tr>
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It was 5.30 in the morning when Zaw, my tuk tuk driver picked me up at the resort I stayed in Old Bagan. We met at the lobby and I was stunned when I saw him wrapped tightly in a thick heavy poncho with a beanie, shawl, wool socks, and stuffs. In the other hand, he was stunned when he saw me wearing a sleeveless top layered with a paper thin cardigan, a capri pants, and a pair of sandals. Well I knew it was in the middle of winter months in Myanmar but it can't be that cold, right? Or so I thought. As my tuk tuk rocking on dusty bumpy street of Old Bagan, I instantly regretted my choice of clothes. Turned out the temperature was merely 14℃ and it surely felt waaay colder. My sister and I were shivering as our toes turned blue. We should have checked the weather and brought a blanket from hotel room!<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-SdQblfcFdqs/XERJUGW7TLI/AAAAAAAA7t8/cIJpZ7Fn0-Q002Phx97zCy8do8HV-UFigCKgBGAs/s1600/sunrise%2Bbagan%2B3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="666" data-original-width="1000" height="426" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-SdQblfcFdqs/XERJUGW7TLI/AAAAAAAA7t8/cIJpZ7Fn0-Q002Phx97zCy8do8HV-UFigCKgBGAs/s640/sunrise%2Bbagan%2B3.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Irrawaddy River in Bagan</td></tr>
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There are plenty of great sunrise spot scattered around Bagan and some of the most popular ones are very crowded. So on my previous emails, I've specially requested Zaw to take me to a less crowded spot. He steered his tuk tuk to a narrow street behind Aye Yar River View Resort towards the river. He took us to a viewing mound near U-Sauk-Pan-Hpaya Temple (scroll down for the exact position on google map). It was still pretty dark when I climbed up the mound with only few people around. I set up my tripod and camera then I sat down, enjoying the tranquillity (still shivering) while waiting for the sun to wake up.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-dFBNzGXXYvo/XERJUFnnGVI/AAAAAAAA7t8/_alxvR3rbXENoFAZF8eo5DRdUjcBlbPWACKgBGAs/s1600/sunrise%2Bbagan%2B4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="666" data-original-width="1000" height="426" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-dFBNzGXXYvo/XERJUFnnGVI/AAAAAAAA7t8/_alxvR3rbXENoFAZF8eo5DRdUjcBlbPWACKgBGAs/s640/sunrise%2Bbagan%2B4.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">U-Sauk-Pan-Hpaya Temple</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">sunrise in Bagan</td></tr>
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It wasn't long until the sky started changing colours as the dawn had broke. A shimmering, gold disk began to shine through next to Dhammayangyi temple afar. My heart skipped a beat when I saw the first hot air balloon floating just barely above the thousand years old temples - towards the sun. About a dozen other balloon started to float behind, catching up with the first one. I was stunned and my mouth kept repeating "WOW" like a broken radio. I've seen tons of amazing pictures of hot air balloon and sunrise in Bagan on Internet but experiencing it myself is another story. I just couldn't find the right words to describe how stunning it was! It's just mind-blowing, really.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-_kSqa5xWHFY/XERJUGUWq1I/AAAAAAAA7t8/Ouio8UXqRJwSyh6Kk2GdI_IYALSNqImrACKgBGAs/s1600/sunrise%2Bbagan%2B5.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="665" data-original-width="1000" height="424" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-_kSqa5xWHFY/XERJUGUWq1I/AAAAAAAA7t8/Ouio8UXqRJwSyh6Kk2GdI_IYALSNqImrACKgBGAs/s640/sunrise%2Bbagan%2B5.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">hot air balloons, an aeroplane and birds</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-y7tYf8RPSlk/XERJULxuA0I/AAAAAAAA7t8/WN0SLK_fTMkHMHH7MbU_z97LbamMiZ7FQCKgBGAs/s1600/sunrise%2Bbagan%2B6.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="666" data-original-width="1000" height="426" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-y7tYf8RPSlk/XERJULxuA0I/AAAAAAAA7t8/WN0SLK_fTMkHMHH7MbU_z97LbamMiZ7FQCKgBGAs/s640/sunrise%2Bbagan%2B6.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">hot air balloons in Bagan</td></tr>
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I was busy with my camera trying my best to capture the view when I got chills all over my body and my vision became blurry. At first I thought I was about to faint because of hunger or hypothermia. Then I got choked up and tears began to run down my cheeks. The view and peaceful ambiance were overwhelmingly extraordinary that I got a rush of dopamine in my brain. Yes, I clearly have a soft spot for beautiful things or experiences. Sometimes I even cry when I listen to music. Perhaps it has something to do with being a HSP (Highly Sensitive Person)?<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">a serene morning in Bagan</td></tr>
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<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-xjfep0dE4SE/XERJUA8TClI/AAAAAAAA7t8/8ZXdr8pMsuMCpjRZpMCTN6-X0DircOUnwCKgBGAs/s1600/sunrise%2Bbagan%2B9.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="667" data-original-width="1000" height="426" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-xjfep0dE4SE/XERJUA8TClI/AAAAAAAA7t8/8ZXdr8pMsuMCpjRZpMCTN6-X0DircOUnwCKgBGAs/s640/sunrise%2Bbagan%2B9.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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It could have been my perfect sunrise moment in Bagan. I've visualised to write 'as the sun began to rise, I watched a bunch of hot air balloons drifting serenely over the plains of Bagan. All I could hear was the birds chirping. Such a peaceful and magical morning.' - on my blog post. In fact, all I could hear was a middle aged guy <strike>chirping </strike>talking loudly non-stop as he was trying to flirt with a lady who sat next to me. None of us at the sunrise point had a peaceful morning obviously. Including the oor lady, judging from her grumpy face. But I wouldn't let this tiny hiccups ruined my day. It was almost a perfect sunrise moment but stunning and unforgettable nevertheless.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">my yellow Mercedes Benz</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhdGNOO6o7NZmViPvuPt5zVSgAWKMxxbepIYVJmlqjPULeXaUZecxiHsfmBGtQ4RkXYmR8dlCD6SX0y4MLU6lNEVchxQpeKIeWVEhFeOjQzSgL1UjO85SsfxNo1UA2M_GRm9AAZ9DxL4n75/s1600/sunrise+bagan+10.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="666" data-original-width="1000" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhdGNOO6o7NZmViPvuPt5zVSgAWKMxxbepIYVJmlqjPULeXaUZecxiHsfmBGtQ4RkXYmR8dlCD6SX0y4MLU6lNEVchxQpeKIeWVEhFeOjQzSgL1UjO85SsfxNo1UA2M_GRm9AAZ9DxL4n75/s640/sunrise+bagan+10.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Temple View Hotel Bagan</td></tr>
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I stayed 3 days at Aye Yar River View Resort in Old Bagan before I moved to Temple View Hotel in the edge of New Bagan. Besides I wanted to get a glimpse of another side of Bagan, it's also closer to Nyaung U Airport. It was more convenient to catch my morning flight. Temple View Hotel is a brand new hotel with room rate starts from USD 20 per night including breakfast. I opted for a bigger room with a balcony facing to temples at USD 40 per night. While breakfast menu was pretty basic, the sunrise view from the rooftop terrace made up for it.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-R3POEKtYMW8/XERJUMITOpI/AAAAAAAA7t8/ctXyScjkdQcsZWEdTdQ9-2zTpXUp8FXyQCKgBGAs/s1600/sunrise%2Bbagan%2B11.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="666" data-original-width="1000" height="426" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-R3POEKtYMW8/XERJUMITOpI/AAAAAAAA7t8/ctXyScjkdQcsZWEdTdQ9-2zTpXUp8FXyQCKgBGAs/s640/sunrise%2Bbagan%2B11.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">breakfast view at Temple View Hotel Bagan</td></tr>
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I set my alarm earlier because I wanted to enjoy my last sunrise in Bagan before flying to Inle Lake. Around 6am I went up to the rooftop terrace, fixed myself a cup of hot coffee and toast, and sat down at the table, facing the temples. I smiled as a chilly morning breeze swept my face. I was grateful to be able to enjoy a peaceful morning with rosé tainted skies with birds chirping sound (finally!). My smile got bigger when I saw some hot air balloon floating behind the temples towards my direction.<br />
It was a nice surprise to find out I could actually watch the hot air balloons closer from this rooftop terrace. At some point the balloons floated pretty close that I saw some passengers were waving hands at me. I couldn't ask a better way to end my stay in this magnificent land of Bagan!<br />
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Tips: There's only few pagodas and temples that can be climbed up for sunrise and sunset. You'll need to venture off the main streets and find smaller temples. The best bet is asking the locals like tuk tuk drivers or hotel staffs who definitely know the area better. Myanmar people are one the most kind hearted and helpful people I've ever met. I was even taken to some hidden temples which can't be found on Google map.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">breakfast with a view in Bagan</td></tr>
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If I were asked whether sunrises in Bagan worth waking up in the wee hours and a pair of panda eyes later? I would wholeheartedly answer, YES! Absofu*k*nglutely! For me, I will not forget those precious mornings I experienced in Bagan. At least not for a very long time.<br />
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<br />Debbzie Leksonohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11633293406090733531noreply@blogger.com26Old Bagan, Myanmar (Burma)21.1717271 94.858545821.156920099999997 94.838375800000009 21.1865341 94.8787158tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1006989774341308826.post-43282962774488916052019-01-12T18:17:00.000+08:002019-01-12T20:41:26.078+08:002018 In A NutshellSeriously guys, don't you think that time goes by faster each year?<br />
Feels like it was only yesterday I posted my 2017 highlights here and now I'm drafting another one for 2018! Looking back, last year I made a resolution to cut down my time on social media and I kinda aced it. I've been spending more time with my parents, family, cousins and my furry kids. I pushed myself to step out my comfy cocoon and to meet new people. Heck! I even signed myself up to some dance classes like hip hop, zumba, waacking and pound fit pro. After a century, I almost forgot how happy I am when I dance, though my matured bones and muscles hated me for this (I can assure you there's lots of 'OUCH' and 'FFF' in the morning after). Oh well! I believe it's never too old or too fat to start dancing again. Don't you think? 😬<br />
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2018 was indeed a blessed year, a much better year than 2017. As usual, some trips started from an impulsive decision. What I realised is that after nearly 40 years of intense travel (OMG! I feel so old! 💀), I am now in slowing down phase. I'm still very much curious about exploring new countries and places but I also don't mind re-visiting same destinations just to chill. My friends used to have a hard time to locate where I was but now I can appreciate more having a quality time at home with my loved ones. Though honestly it feels a bit odd to start with, because I'm so used to always o the move since I was born.<br />
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Okay! Enough yadda yadda yadda and here's my 2018 in a nutshell:<br />
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<b>January - Bali</b><br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">I couldn't ask for better team</td></tr>
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Kicking off the new year with a collaboration project by iwashere.id and Prasana by Arjani Resorts in Bali. I was invited along with some talented friends for a creator retreat.<br />
*click <a href="https://www.debbzie.com/2018/01/prasana-by-arjani-resorts.html" target="_blank">here </a>to read how we spent our days during the retreat<br />
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<b>March - Hong Kong</b><br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">meat galore </td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Temple Street Night Market</td></tr>
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A year wouldn't be complete without a visit to our second home to spoil our taste buds on the scrumptious Hong Kong cuisine. This time we ventured to New Territory to visit my grandma's sister who has been feeling unwell. Also I joined two special themed walking tours, <a href="https://www.debbzie.com/2018/10/ghosts-myths-of-wan-chai.html" target="_blank">the Ghosts & Myths of Wan Chai</a> and Kowloon Walled City & Food Adventure.<br />
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By the way, I experienced something spooky when I took the photo above, the Temple Street Night Market. After dinner my parents and my sister were quite tired that they went back to hotel, in the other hand I was having a caffeine high. I decided to walk around the night market and found a parking building where I could take some pictures from above. The view was pretty awesome from the 8th floor (or was it 5th floor? Gosh, I'm so bad with numbers!). I spent probably an hour there, shooting and enjoying the view. But from time to time I would keep looking back because the strange feeling of someone was watching me or I heard footsteps when there was no one around in the dingy parking lot. It was around 9pm when I took the lift down to get back to my hotel. I was all alone inside the dimly lit lift. Suddenly I felt a gust of wind on the back of my neck. A cold wind. I turned back to check whether there's a hole on the wall but I couldn't find any. Then came another gust of wind. It blew harder that some parts of my hair moved. Felt like someone was blowing on my neck. Okay! Probably I'm not alone here. I told myself not to turn around because I could feel that someone (or something?) was there behind me. I cursed the lift for moving ever so slowly and flee faster than Usain Bolt as soon as the door slid open to the side. Phew! What a night!<br />
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<b>April - Jakarta</b><br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-RvhxoFFNs0E/XC4XkhyrbKI/AAAAAAAA6-g/4vfcEVpMz1QJqfjvIWhY56PdPWiAP7WEgCKgBGAs/s1600/IMG_3846.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1066" data-original-width="1600" height="426" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-RvhxoFFNs0E/XC4XkhyrbKI/AAAAAAAA6-g/4vfcEVpMz1QJqfjvIWhY56PdPWiAP7WEgCKgBGAs/s640/IMG_3846.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Kopi Es Tak Kie</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Stayed in the capital city for a couple days to visit a friend and her newborn twins. Finally I got to visit this famous coffee shop called Kopi Es Tak Kie and tasted some delicious food in Gang Gloria, Glodok.<br />
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<b>June - Adopting 2 senior dogs</b><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-LnH8Sm7HER4/XC4Xnnm-hvI/AAAAAAAA6-o/GGqvsqhLjfQXby_E9_Mi-RPwKucTVBX2gCKgBGAs/s1600/IMG_4395.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1066" data-original-width="1600" height="426" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-LnH8Sm7HER4/XC4Xnnm-hvI/AAAAAAAA6-o/GGqvsqhLjfQXby_E9_Mi-RPwKucTVBX2gCKgBGAs/s640/IMG_4395.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">the Leksonos new members</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
I keep reminding myself that I should stop adopting or rescuing all the stray dogs I saw on street. But I just couldn't say no when these two came into my house. Both of them are considered senior dogs, Lady the Pomeranian is 11 years old and Arthur the Husky is turning 8 soon. Their hoomom had to move to Bali and it wasn't possible to take them along. So now, I settle with 14 adopted furry kiddos at home. Please don't ask me to adopt more or I will soon need someone to adopt myself too 😂<br />
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<b>July - Bali</b><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj50aETFze9NY6Xrrxw3tc5cghhg1nDAxO_BoV5h_AzhFydNqSB4tYqd1PrVTWOFBVTk5vI5slpU5kc88NXEVmxztSydM_k3EECjGlWRlSaeLfo_9ufWvQ4JWdZvQ3TPFg_mP2IbhKJ6ZGQ/s1600/IMG_4229.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj50aETFze9NY6Xrrxw3tc5cghhg1nDAxO_BoV5h_AzhFydNqSB4tYqd1PrVTWOFBVTk5vI5slpU5kc88NXEVmxztSydM_k3EECjGlWRlSaeLfo_9ufWvQ4JWdZvQ3TPFg_mP2IbhKJ6ZGQ/s640/IMG_4229.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Omnia</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<b>August - Yogyakarta</b><br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ZqmreQ8m5is/XC4YhXlJyzI/AAAAAAAA6_M/mmKkWY3lLoUvTrlGVVI7ZMn0rUEmKsp0wCKgBGAs/s1600/IMG_4537.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1066" data-original-width="1600" height="426" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ZqmreQ8m5is/XC4YhXlJyzI/AAAAAAAA6_M/mmKkWY3lLoUvTrlGVVI7ZMn0rUEmKsp0wCKgBGAs/s640/IMG_4537.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-gUw9j0sX3JA/XDRRRb1ujwI/AAAAAAAA7HU/hMsxtheK2mkt_dW1C2rwBURIVEV9LokXACLcBGAs/s1600/IMG-20180820-WA0002-01.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="778" data-original-width="1037" height="480" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-gUw9j0sX3JA/XDRRRb1ujwI/AAAAAAAA7HU/hMsxtheK2mkt_dW1C2rwBURIVEV9LokXACLcBGAs/s640/IMG-20180820-WA0002-01.jpeg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">love them both!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Took a train from Malang to Yogyakarta with my sister to meet these ladies. I got to know <a href="https://www.instagram.com/iniaggy/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Aggy </a>and <a href="https://www.instagram.com/jalan2liburan/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">kak Febby</a> long time ago when I was just starting my blog. They are my blogger friends turned sisters. I couldn't be happier to spend some days exploring Yogyakarta with these two 😘<br />
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<b>September - Malang Flower Carnival</b><br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-BBo2MQI3qOw/XCthM1ddL8I/AAAAAAAA66k/m916EopFny4miolzxtI1_KzzKD01EOZOACKgBGAs/s1600/DSCF7738.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1067" height="640" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-BBo2MQI3qOw/XCthM1ddL8I/AAAAAAAA66k/m916EopFny4miolzxtI1_KzzKD01EOZOACKgBGAs/s640/DSCF7738.JPG" width="426" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-jBKRHrCM3LE/XCthM9tN2-I/AAAAAAAA66k/tIP1EVNa1pQSEGYGAezjV6C2DUMoeYJlgCKgBGAs/s1600/DSCF7774.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="426" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-jBKRHrCM3LE/XCthM9tN2-I/AAAAAAAA66k/tIP1EVNa1pQSEGYGAezjV6C2DUMoeYJlgCKgBGAs/s640/DSCF7774.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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Kinda embarrassed to admit that only this year I managed to experience Malang Flower Carnival, an annual event which take place in my neighbourhood, Ijen Street. Every year this event is attended by thousands of visitors, not only from across Indonesia but also from more than 40 countries around the world. In total, there was more than 200 participants in striking flower theme costumes made of recycle materials, designed by 150 talented designers. I really enjoyed the carnival and it was beyond my expectation, to be honest. Can't wait to join the event again this year. See you there ?<br />
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<b>October - Bali (again)</b><br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-SthOAjQTReA/XC4XvdHYx-I/AAAAAAAA6-s/_tWXBoHcoCs__iw_fCTsoSX4vrUi0G5egCKgBGAs/s1600/IMG_4901.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="426" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-SthOAjQTReA/XC4XvdHYx-I/AAAAAAAA6-s/_tWXBoHcoCs__iw_fCTsoSX4vrUi0G5egCKgBGAs/s640/IMG_4901.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Tanah Lot, Bali</td></tr>
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Another trip to Bali to meet my former workmate slash old friends from London. We used to work together as coffee baristas when I was studying in the UK. It's been ages since we bid goodbye so I was thrilled when they told me that they were going to have a family holiday in Bali. For some privacy reasons, I don't post their picture here. Daniel Craig? Jude Law? Or is it Prince Harry? Keep guessing, guys! 😂<br />
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<b>November - Myanmar</b><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-UzRy5lxTMsA/XCthc_t9tNI/AAAAAAAA66o/TWIhZwYFtzwKEIA_b4Q8Yv9-Zh-QJjbLACKgBGAs/s1600/DSCF8793.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1066" data-original-width="1600" height="426" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-UzRy5lxTMsA/XCthc_t9tNI/AAAAAAAA66o/TWIhZwYFtzwKEIA_b4Q8Yv9-Zh-QJjbLACKgBGAs/s640/DSCF8793.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Hsinbyume Pagoda</td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-RFoAGW0VOZc/XCthc9aqPVI/AAAAAAAA66o/TFiuMKIaIjAlJBkfTA7hMERabfsfQ-KQgCKgBGAs/s1600/DSCF9293.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="426" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-RFoAGW0VOZc/XCthc9aqPVI/AAAAAAAA66o/TFiuMKIaIjAlJBkfTA7hMERabfsfQ-KQgCKgBGAs/s640/DSCF9293.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">sunrise in Bagan</td></tr>
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The most anticipated trip of the year! An impulsive trip booked just after my afternoon nap back in February. Found a good deals on Singapore Airlines Travel Fair and decided to have my birthday trip in Myanmar. I didn't even have any ideas where to visit and else but that's the fun part. My sister and I had one of the best trips in our life, exploring this beautiful country. We were venturing to Mandalay, Monywa, Bagan, Inle Lake and Yangon. More post about Myanmar soon!<br />
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<b>December - Thailand</b><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-79-AzjSpniw/XC4YddEZoFI/AAAAAAAA6_E/QAXdivW-5VYixp49jS5loUApWzZ4c7xTwCKgBGAs/s1600/IMG_5658.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="426" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-79-AzjSpniw/XC4YddEZoFI/AAAAAAAA6_E/QAXdivW-5VYixp49jS5loUApWzZ4c7xTwCKgBGAs/s640/IMG_5658.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Khao Yai</td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-XdtB6z_8MrA/XDm3-SVaa5I/AAAAAAAA7Q0/kHjiK9cRcswYOtSusETryIEG60wObno_QCKgBGAs/s1600/IMG_5916.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1066" data-original-width="1600" height="426" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-XdtB6z_8MrA/XDm3-SVaa5I/AAAAAAAA7Q0/kHjiK9cRcswYOtSusETryIEG60wObno_QCKgBGAs/s640/IMG_5916.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">SookSiam</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Flew to Thailand with my parents for an early Christmas holiday. We explored Khao Yai for a couple days before drove back to Bangkok for some food and retail therapy 😋.<br />
Checked on the newest and biggest mall in Thailand, the Icon Siam and ended up staying the whole evening at their indoor floating market. I really love the SookSiam stall concept and pretty interior. You can also find a huge variety of Thai food too here. I visited this mall twice only for the delicious food so I can't really say much about the shops.<br />
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<a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/BsE0hsNFory/?utm_source=ig_embed&utm_medium=loading" style="color: #c9c8cd; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: 17px; text-decoration: none;" target="_blank">A post shared by Debbzie Leksono ✈️ (@debbzie_leksono)</a> on <time datetime="2019-01-01T02:33:32+00:00" style="font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 17px;">Dec 31, 2018 at 6:33pm PST</time></div>
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Happy New Year 2019, guys! Wishing us all a blessed year full of love and laugh!<br />
My resolution this year is to love myself more (along with my family, friends and furry kiddos of course) and to live a healthier lifestyle. I went for yearly blood screening a couple days ago and by looking at my doctor's reaction...grimaced face, shook his head and massaged his temple...I knew the result is far from good 😅<br />
So let's see how long I will stick on his new rules (less coffee, less fried goodies, less fatty food and less other 1 million items) for, lol.<br />
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Do you have any resolutions for 2019? Please share 😘<br />
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<br />Debbzie Leksonohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11633293406090733531noreply@blogger.com20tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1006989774341308826.post-72110028981232337732018-11-21T20:59:00.000+08:002018-12-27T16:26:47.789+08:00Japan: Magical Winter IlluminationsDecember 2017<br />
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<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-iUwVWr_TDAM/W-cpmSK_s6I/AAAAAAAA3J0/J4XIZv4wBh41qKwYuk35knXvrvaqhfIaQCKgBGAs/s1600/DSCF6617.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="426" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-iUwVWr_TDAM/W-cpmSK_s6I/AAAAAAAA3J0/J4XIZv4wBh41qKwYuk35knXvrvaqhfIaQCKgBGAs/s640/DSCF6617.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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Anyone going to Japan for Christmas holiday next month? Please, take me! Japan is a year round holiday destination with probably hanami or cherry blossom season is the most popular. Though I've been wanting to experience the beautiful hanami and autumn season in Japan, for some reasons I've always coming back during winter. Maybe I'm too smitten with the magical winter illuminations across the country or maybe I just love slurping piping hot ramen when it's freezing cold outside (I travel for food most of the time) or maybe I'm simply a lousy travel planner. 😂<br />
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Anyway on my previous trip to Japan last December, I tried to visit as many winter illuminations as possible in Tokyo and Osaka. All of them have different themes and equally pretty so don't ask me to pick which one I love the most. Not to mention that all of these venues are free so you can save your ¥ for a bowl of hearty ramen or a couple of Pucchin Purin later. Here's a photo essay of the events which of course don't do it justice. Go and experience it yourself! I'm sure you will be blown away by the enchanting ambiance like I've always have...<br />
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<b>Shibuya Ao no Dokutsu </b><br />
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<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Z9uDlO2oLFQ/W-cpma15OnI/AAAAAAAA3J0/rMcc7F8Wg5IUHgBDuVVAvt1BhvtD1txTQCKgBGAs/s1600/DSCF5903.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="426" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Z9uDlO2oLFQ/W-cpma15OnI/AAAAAAAA3J0/rMcc7F8Wg5IUHgBDuVVAvt1BhvtD1txTQCKgBGAs/s640/DSCF5903.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-xzb3StD2ViE/W-cpmflHhpI/AAAAAAAA3J0/i6WBhkylixsL6iFd4FEjm-HwY47AR5aXgCKgBGAs/s1600/DSCF5933.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="426" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-xzb3StD2ViE/W-cpmflHhpI/AAAAAAAA3J0/i6WBhkylixsL6iFd4FEjm-HwY47AR5aXgCKgBGAs/s640/DSCF5933.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-2KMDVDvHSOM/W-cpmYJLjUI/AAAAAAAA3J0/Defh6c9N25YfgiK0-a5cZJr4oYfLXmscgCKgBGAs/s1600/DSCF5946.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="426" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-2KMDVDvHSOM/W-cpmYJLjUI/AAAAAAAA3J0/Defh6c9N25YfgiK0-a5cZJr4oYfLXmscgCKgBGAs/s640/DSCF5946.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">the Blue Cave in Shibuya</td></tr>
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The first few nights I was staying around the famous Shibuya Crossing, at Shibuya Excel Hotel Tokyu to be exact. When I found out it was merely 1 km to the 'Blue Cave' or Shibuya Ao no Dokutsu venue, my sister and I went for an early dinner then we walked towards the NHK headquarters. The street along the way was decorated with sapphire blue lights as a preview of the main venue. So it was an easy walk just like Hansel following the trail of breadcrumbs.<br />
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Welcome to Avatar world! I said it to myself. Well it did feel like that because my skin turned blue under the 600.000 blue LED lights along the avenue. It was crowded as expected but pretty nevertheless. This year Shibuya Ao no Dokotsu will be held from November 30 to December 31, 2018. Started at 17:00 until 22:00.<br />
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<b>Omotesando</b><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-wlObWLwZ9Ds/W-cpmUaynKI/AAAAAAAA3J0/03ZP3legM0EOk_SYDIyOW4TV2euMNDQMACKgBGAs/s1600/DSCF6077.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="426" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-wlObWLwZ9Ds/W-cpmUaynKI/AAAAAAAA3J0/03ZP3legM0EOk_SYDIyOW4TV2euMNDQMACKgBGAs/s640/DSCF6077.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Omotesando</td></tr>
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<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-UHfyv27oKrE/W-cpmdFnRgI/AAAAAAAA3J0/9Dj6qf1zvig4O0ncvrXukRzA_8GNQ_DsQCKgBGAs/s1600/DSCF6080.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1067" height="640" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-UHfyv27oKrE/W-cpmdFnRgI/AAAAAAAA3J0/9Dj6qf1zvig4O0ncvrXukRzA_8GNQ_DsQCKgBGAs/s640/DSCF6080.jpg" width="426" /></a></div>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-SXHopf1N2ec/W-cpmcNCBUI/AAAAAAAA3J0/3NA6jZZN3BQx2-tzK82svAOBHfBX-iNKQCKgBGAs/s1600/DSCF6089.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="426" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-SXHopf1N2ec/W-cpmcNCBUI/AAAAAAAA3J0/3NA6jZZN3BQx2-tzK82svAOBHfBX-iNKQCKgBGAs/s640/DSCF6089.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">photoshoot in Harajuku</td></tr>
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Next day I explored the stylish shopping street of Omotesando and Harajuku area which is just a couple station away from my hotel. I arrived a bit early so I waited at a nearby cafe before all the lights were lighted up. Omotesando was super packed with both tourists and locals that it was pretty difficult to get a seat at most cafes. Finally around 5 pm, I got to see the colour of millions lights that decorated the trees along the street. Blue hour made those goldish LED lights pop out and looked more appealing. It reminded me of those sparkle bubbles after you pop a champagne cork. It will start soon next from November 29 to December 25, 2018. Light up around sunset until 22:00<br />
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<b>Shinjuku Minami Lumi</b><br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-qyFGNmKH6D0/W-cpme-Cm8I/AAAAAAAA3J0/791VCtX4lQgO2_9MJFZfavLyEl6HbxXTACKgBGAs/s1600/DSCF6100.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="426" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-qyFGNmKH6D0/W-cpme-Cm8I/AAAAAAAA3J0/791VCtX4lQgO2_9MJFZfavLyEl6HbxXTACKgBGAs/s640/DSCF6100.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Takashimaya Shinjuku</td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-VRoMjwt6s50/W-cpmc7Ee0I/AAAAAAAA3J0/285nQn-_l84pilR0pa28pj7eD_OBJcTFgCKgBGAs/s1600/DSCF6116.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="426" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-VRoMjwt6s50/W-cpmc7Ee0I/AAAAAAAA3J0/285nQn-_l84pilR0pa28pj7eD_OBJcTFgCKgBGAs/s640/DSCF6116.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Shinjuku Terrace</td></tr>
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I checked on Google map and decided to keep walking towards Shinjuku station which is about 3km from Omotesando. Many people raved that the Shinjuku illumination is one of the prettiest. I was actually tired and famished but my curiosity won.<br />
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Last year marked the 12th year of the Shinjuku Illumination and the concept was 'making people smile'. The theme colour was baby pink of cherry blossom. It was indeed pretty and made me smile from ear to ear (and my eyes welled up with happy tears). It was so mesmerising and romantic that I almost grabbed a random guy and kiss him. Errrr...okay, maybe that's not a brilliant idea 😂</div>
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Shinjuku Minami Lumi starts from November 14, 2018 to February 14, 2019. From 17:00 until midnight.</div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-2lUNPV6RRcE/W-cpmeDE0PI/AAAAAAAA3J0/WAcUHuFUr-4iZ4j5rFy41nesyhH2p-l_gCKgBGAs/s1600/DSCF6142.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1065" height="640" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-2lUNPV6RRcE/W-cpmeDE0PI/AAAAAAAA3J0/WAcUHuFUr-4iZ4j5rFy41nesyhH2p-l_gCKgBGAs/s640/DSCF6142.jpg" width="426" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Oh, hai! 😁</td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-iZEcRlJx87k/W-cpmWqWC7I/AAAAAAAA3J0/c1PV3He9aK4SFMBGf5V8_jXXV5ZZjWAFwCKgBGAs/s1600/DSCF6171.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="426" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-iZEcRlJx87k/W-cpmWqWC7I/AAAAAAAA3J0/c1PV3He9aK4SFMBGf5V8_jXXV5ZZjWAFwCKgBGAs/s640/DSCF6171.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">on the other side of the station</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-fHu8iub-LL4/W-cpmcGcaOI/AAAAAAAA3J0/N-IzGRdT9tQnTWifgq8PWz7cperdb84ewCKgBGAs/s1600/DSCF6187.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1065" height="640" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-fHu8iub-LL4/W-cpmcGcaOI/AAAAAAAA3J0/N-IzGRdT9tQnTWifgq8PWz7cperdb84ewCKgBGAs/s640/DSCF6187.jpg" width="424" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Shinjuku clock tower</td></tr>
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After walked more than 8 hours since morning, it felt like my calves were going to explode anytime soon. With both arms full of shopping bags, I hailed and hopped on the infamous Tokyo taxi. It was expensive but I couldn't care less. My legs have given up and refused to move. Please just whisk me off to bed. Arigatou gozaimasu! </div>
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<b>Odaiba</b><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiMPzInRdr5ZURmqPw2b9FjiHgniflnZc74TNiOfrXJEvIDNBkfWCpnyJpf8cidJITmG1ios_d2WaAeP1pQB7TFb8WdvtKgvICgOKV5vIb7fM3BumXnWHJZzBAZB_ggXPveiiZBvWlWpLde/s1600/IMG_3090.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiMPzInRdr5ZURmqPw2b9FjiHgniflnZc74TNiOfrXJEvIDNBkfWCpnyJpf8cidJITmG1ios_d2WaAeP1pQB7TFb8WdvtKgvICgOKV5vIb7fM3BumXnWHJZzBAZB_ggXPveiiZBvWlWpLde/s640/IMG_3090.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Odaiba</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Partire Tokyo Bay Wedding Village</td></tr>
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Though in my opinion the illumination in Odaiba, the artificially created island in Tokyo Bay - not as grand as in downtown Tokyo, it was still enjoyable. Taken place in some major mall like Aqua City, Diver City, Venusfort and also the Decks Odaiba.</div>
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I was walking back from Aqua City to my hotel, Ariake when I saw a place that reminds me a lot of European cities. It has a chapel, a Romanesque fountain, restaurants, cobblestone streets and some shops in the complex. For a moment it felt like I was strolling around the Old City of Luzern, Switzerland. I asked Mr. Google and found out that the name of this place is Partire Tokyo Bay Wedding Village. Apparently this place is pretty popular amongst love birds who fantasise Western style wedding. It's kind of a one-stop-shopping wedding thingy. It provides everything from wedding gown, make up and all the stuff....including a (fake) Caucasian priest. Interesting place and pretty too!<br />
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<b>Osaka Hikari Renaissance</b><br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Osaka winter illumination </td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Osaka Central Public Hall</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhE8xDfawaJ1N92_YVfn8JOxSWedi9pboZk9Ct2SxedYFdrVe-yPjDpdrm8E5CfztXURpCYYxeuK3lkJ72Hl_EXS60RCKEp45Hs1qRmjm3JikeZ37Un-VXV2xYiLr3Os0weH_8y3xUyaYaK/s1600/DSCF6564.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhE8xDfawaJ1N92_YVfn8JOxSWedi9pboZk9Ct2SxedYFdrVe-yPjDpdrm8E5CfztXURpCYYxeuK3lkJ72Hl_EXS60RCKEp45Hs1qRmjm3JikeZ37Un-VXV2xYiLr3Os0weH_8y3xUyaYaK/s640/DSCF6564.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">lampions</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-o8NbWBWZ7PM/W-cpmdW-hWI/AAAAAAAA3J0/EDw4lAGJGZMoRpnbohqHtF4FS_S2BqjuQCKgBGAs/s1600/DSCF6577.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1068" data-original-width="1600" height="426" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-o8NbWBWZ7PM/W-cpmdW-hWI/AAAAAAAA3J0/EDw4lAGJGZMoRpnbohqHtF4FS_S2BqjuQCKgBGAs/s640/DSCF6577.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">food vendors around the venue</td></tr>
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Winter illumination is pretty big deal too in Osaka. One of the popular venue is at Osaka City Hall until to the Eastern tip of Nakanoshima Park. One of the programs is wall tapestry lighting show at Osaka City Central Public Hall. I loved it too much that I sat in freezing temperature for nearly 2 hours and watched 5 shows non stop. Each lighting show lasted about 10 minutes, every 15 minutes with a break in betwwen. I only decided to go back to my hotel when my hands turn blue and almost caught a hypothermia. Seriously it was just mesmerising (don't forget to turn the volume up when you watch the video below). Good thing there was food bazaar too in the venue so I could grab some food and drink to warm up my body. Don't miss this when you are in Osaka. Starts from December 14 to December 25, 2018. 17:00 until 22:00.</div>
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If you are heading to Japan for Christmas holiday or in Japan right now, please tag me on Instagram or Twitter. Make me jealous with your beautiful pictures of the winter illumination.<br />
Happy holidays!😘</div>
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PS: For latest updates and more information about winter illumination in cities across Japan, please check the details in japan-guide.com<br />
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Debbzie Leksonohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11633293406090733531noreply@blogger.com23tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1006989774341308826.post-8493588045979381962018-10-27T16:08:00.000+08:002018-10-29T14:25:47.773+08:00Hong Kong: Ghosts & Myths of Wan ChaiWan Chai, March 2018<br />
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Though I spent pretty much half my childhood in Hong Kong, I've never really explored Wan Chai area. It is merely one station apart from where my apartment was in Causeway Bay. So earlier this year when I visited my granny's sister, I decided to join a local walking tour that I've been eyeing for quite sometimes, <a href="http://walkin.hk/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Walk In Hong Kong.</a> Nope, it's not a sponsored post. I write this simply because I love what they do and maybe you guys would enjoy some of their tours too. I booked two different walking tour through their website which were Ghost & Myths of Wan Chai Tour and Kowloon Walled City & Food Adventure Tour. Since we are in the Halloween mood now, let's talk about something spooky first and I'll write the latter on different post. Wan Chai is one of the oldest district in Hong Kong and has many untold stories in the dark corner of this concrete jungle.<br />
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Now, don't forget to pack those huge cross, holy water, silver bullet and garlic as your weapon before we walk through the most haunted alley in Wan Chai!....okay....I'm just kidding! It's more like packing an umbrella, mineral water, some coins to buy something and garlic bread as a snack actually. Fred not, this tour is completely safe even if you are a scaredy cat. We won't be doing some ghost hunter like the Ghostbusters 😂<br />
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<b>STAR STREET SHRINE</b><br />
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I met my guide, Audrey at our assigned meeting point in One Pacific Place that afternoon. After a brief introduction, we headed to our first stop just across the building. At one cul-de-sec off Wing Fung Street, lays this shrine blocking a door which apparently is an air raid tunnel. During the World War II, hundreds of people were killed on the spot before they managed to reach the bomb shelter. It happened one day when the alarm failed to warn them of an air raid. Since then the people who live in the neighbourhood often saw some ghost heads wailed in the street. The shrine was built to seal the entrance of an air raid shelter and suppress the restless spirits from within.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">haunted bomb shelter</td></tr>
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"You can actually take a peek inside the tunnel, but I'm not coming with you. I will just wait here." Audrey whispered to me.<br />
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"Do you think that would be okay?" I was a bit concerned because I saw the 'no unauthorised entry' sign on the door. Audrey looked around and nodded. I slowly climbed up the steps towards the black door with rusty slits and moved the wood bar. I looked back and saw Audrey nodded, once again. I pulled the door and suddenly a gust of wind pushed the door open from inside. I was stunned, not expecting that. A musty odour stung my nostrils. Staring at the dark grey tunnel, I felt uneasy. A voice in my head kept saying, "Don't go in! Close the door now!" As a person who is very sensitive to negative energy and have a claustrophobia issue, I didn't want to have the same experience as the one in the <a href="https://www.debbzie.com/2015/01/france-catacombs-of-paris-life-under.html" target="_blank">Catacombs of Paris</a>. I decided to take a final glance at the shelter and shut the door. Maybe not today, I told myself.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">saw this on the street, it's meant to keep the evil spirits away</td></tr>
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<b>ST. LUKE'S COLLEGE</b><br />
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Located at Hill Side Terrace street, this private English school started its operation from 1950 and ended around 1980. It became an empty abandoned building since then. A couple of real estate developers have been trying to reconstruct this building but for some weird reasons, their plan have always failed. Years before the college, this building used to be a private residence, owned by an old couple. They refused to surrender their house and the Japanese soldiers killed them and used the building as a military brothel. Stories of ghostly sightings have been circulate that people who live around this college would put a small shrine and burn incense to keep the evil spirits away.<br />
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Once again I climbed up the stairs to the entrance alone because Audrey insisted she wouldn't go nearer the building. I walked around the college hoping I would find any access to enter but it seems everything have been locked. I was actually curious to see the classes which have been said still have all the student wood desks and chairs. I couldn't stand the stinky odour so I left immediately when I couldn't gain any access into the school.<br />
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<b>NAM KOO TERRACE </b><br />
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It's considered one of the most haunted places in Hong Kong and the one I was looking forward to visit the most. Sadly there was a major construction in the area and it's prohibited to access the alley towards the historic building 😭. What's so special about Nam Koo Terrace then? While most ghost stories in the area are based on urban myth or stories passed among the locals, one incidents at Nam Koo Terrace actually managed to be the headlines on newspapers and TV.<br />
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In 2003 a bunch of high school students broke into the house in order to have some 'supernatural adventure'. They stayed overnight inside one of the room and played Ouija board to communicate with the spirits. After a while, three of the girls started to act really strange, got really depressed and soon hysterical. The rest of the group were frightened, called the police and tried to drag the girls out the house. The polices came to help but one of the most affected girls turned psychotic and refused to leave the house. She kept saying there's a man from upstairs calling her back so she fought the policeman. A couple hours later they finally managed to drag this girl out and sent her straight to a hospital for a psychiatric treatment. Later on the girl escaped from the hospital and was reported missing until today.<br />
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Nam Koo Terrace was built in 1915 and was originally owned by a tycoon from Shanghai who then was forced to flee the house by the Japanese soldiers around 1940. They turned it into a brothel house by kidnapping local girls, raped and tortured them for a 'recreational reason' before finally the soldiers beheaded the girls. Years passed by and the house became a suicide house where desperate people come to end their own life. Dozens of bodies had been discovered since. It's been said that people in the neighbourhood often hear women crying and screaming from inside the house until this day. Audrey also told me that the house is now in renovation progress and it will turned into a marriage registry office.<br />
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<b>HUNG SHING TEMPLE </b><br />
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Interesting fact about this tempe, around 1847 it started out as an altar built on a rock that stood on what used to be the Wan Chai shoreline. From outside I couldn't see the huge boulder which is actually a part of the main altar. This temple is dedicated to Hung Hei, a god of southern seas and protector against disaster. There's also a shrine of the 3 Goddesses but I can't remember the name now. My bad! Gotta ask Google soon 😜<br />
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<b>HOPEWELL CENTRE</b><br />
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In the 80s, the 64-storey building was famously known as the tallest building in Hong Kong. But behind the impressive title, there's a tiny hiccups during the construction. A Feng Shui master was concerned about the tall cylindrical shape of this building which looks like a candle. It is believed to attract the fire element and might cause some problem to the building. Thus as the master requested, a round pool was added on the rooftop of Maxwell Centre. It was aimed to cool or tame down the fire element. As an Indonesian Chinese, I'm familiar with this superstitious and feng shui thingy. It's quite big deal for the Chinese. Does the pool addition really protect the whole building? Well I can't say much but there wasn't any fire related incidents up till now.<br />
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<b>THE BLUE HOUSE</b><br />
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Built in 1923, the Blue House is the most iconic historic building of the district. The building was once used as a hospital then turned into a temple to a brewery, a shops, a martial arts school (one of the students of Wong Fei Hung!) and a chiropractic clinic. Nonetheless this building is loaded with captivating stories. It is nowadays the home for Wanchai Livelihood Museum. There's a rumour about a nearby eatery was being asked to send some food to the 4th floor and when the delivery boy arrived, he could hear the noise of people playing mahjong (Chinese tile-based games) from inside the room. He kept knocking on the door for a quite sometimes but no one responded. He then decided to open the door only to find that the room has been unoccupied for a very long time.<br />
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<b>OLD WAN CHAI MARKET</b><br />
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What you see now as a luxury apartment building was once a traditional market built in 1937. During the war, there were way too many bodies scattered around this area. So the basement storeroom of the market used as a makeshift mortuary. Many sightings have been reported here. And there's a story that has been passed down through the generations about the Cha Siu Bao (barbecue-pork-filled bun) seller in the market. During the war it was expectantly difficult to get food and most people were not well feed. Though at that time the meat supplies was almost non existent, this seller was still producing piping hot bun with fresh meat filling every single day. There was some scepticism about where he managed to get the daily meat supplies from. Errrr....I think there are some things that are better left unknown 🙈<br />
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<b>PAK TAI TEMPLE</b><br />
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We walked uphill on the Stone Nullah Lane and reached our final stop, the Pak Tai Temple. It is one of the oldest and the most important temples in Hong Kong. Entering the temple, Audrey explained to me that the main area used to be an open courtyard but now is the home to the statue of Pak Tai, the God of the north. On the right wing, there's a room filled up with incense smokes and a shrine for the Dragon God Mother. Women from around the world come here to pray for fertility and to be able to conceive a baby.<br />
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Don't fear the ghosts, fear the human...that's what I've been telling my friends who asked me why I'm so fascinated by myths and horror stories. I, myself never intend to meet any ghosts if they were really existed. But I seriously think that even the scariest ghosts I've seen on the movie are pale to comparison with some cruelest black-hearted people I had encountered in real life. I'm a very curious person and most of the time I wonder what's the history behind old buildings. What happened there? How did the ghost story start to spread among the locals? And the question goes on. </div>
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Time really does seem to fly by when you are having fun. I couldn't believe it had been 2,5 hours strolling around the area and it was time to bid Audrey goodbye. I certainly had a blast listening to her stories. To me this ghost tour is not only about those hair-rising stories but more about appreciating the historical buildings that keep decreasing throughout these years. And of course there's still plenty of spots that I haven't explored which have equally interesting stories. But I shall keep it for my next visit to Hong Kong 😉</div>
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Have you ever joined any ghost tours before? Which city would you recommend me to join?</div>
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Debbzie Leksonohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11633293406090733531noreply@blogger.com22tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1006989774341308826.post-16534241302543587672018-09-27T15:57:00.001+08:002018-11-01T21:22:55.499+08:00Armenia: Rock-Cut Church At Geghard Monastery<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;">Kotayk, October 2017</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">Armenia is truly a home of otherworldly churches and monasteries. As I've said it before, I was blown away by the fact that Armenian are advanced in choosing the most dramatic and extravagant location to build their churches. Previously I've posted about the gorgeous <a href="http://www.debbzie.com/2017/12/armenia-noravank-monastery.html" target="_blank">Noravank Monastery </a>which is perched halfway up the mountain. Today I'm going to take you for another journey to my most favourite amongst all...*drum rolls*...the Geghard Monastery!</span><br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Geghard Monastery</td></tr>
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<i style="background-color: white;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">"The monastery of Geghard and the Upper Azat Valley contains a number of churches and tombs, most of them cut into the living rock, which illustrate Armenian medieval architecture at its highest point. The complex of medieval buildings is set into a landscape of great natural beauty, at the entrance to the Azat Valley. High cliffs from the northern side surround the complex while the defence wall encircles the rest."</span></i><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="background-color: white; caret-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); text-size-adjust: auto;"><span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;"><i><br /></i></span></span>
<span style="background-color: white;">I peeked the brief introduction on UNESCO website before the trip and it already tickled my adventurous soul. I mean a rock-cut monastery complex? It can't be something as common as pancake with maple syrup, right?</span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="background-color: white;"><br /></span><span style="background-color: white;">It was originally called Ayrivank, means monastery of the cave. </span><span style="background-color: white;"><span class="Apple-converted-space" style="caret-color: rgb(0, 0, 0);"> </span><span style="caret-color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">The monastery was founded, according to tradition by St. Gregory the Illuminator, and was built following the adoption of Christianity as a state religion in Armenia (beginning of the 4th century AD).</span></span></span><br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Geghard Monastery complex</td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">After a drive through winding roads into the heart of the mountain, Arman parked our sprinter van under the shade of a tree. I looked up as I jumped out the car but couldn't really see the monastery complex. From the parking lot, with anticipation high I made my walk up towards the entrance gate passing some Sujukh sellers (candle shaped candy made from fruits or nuts). As I get closer and the view of the monastery became clearer, my heart skip a bit. The greyish stone colour church stand tall ahead me encircled by tall cliffs with t<span style="background-color: white;"><span style="caret-color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">he first rock-cut church was built back in 1250. </span>The setting is so dramatic, I could easily see it as a scene in some adventure movies like Indiana Jones or else. The autumn</span> foliage made it look even prettier. Also I think I've made the best decision to explore the Caucasus countries in autumn. Not only the scenery was more beautiful, I also didn't meet any hordes of tourists at most places I visited. Moderately cool temperature was a plus too for a polar bear like me.</span><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-BokKAztedDs/W4J6dvSiyJI/AAAAAAAA0mo/1sW3zUxUkgccYuWefUcfNvoTKv7AJDWVQCKgBGAs/s1600/Geghard13.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1000" data-original-width="750" height="640" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-BokKAztedDs/W4J6dvSiyJI/AAAAAAAA0mo/1sW3zUxUkgccYuWefUcfNvoTKv7AJDWVQCKgBGAs/s640/Geghard13.jpg" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">exquisite wooden door </td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">the Gavit</td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">My favourite part of this complex is the main church or called Katoghike and the Gavit, built completely against the mountain in 1215. Natural lights from outside were the only source of light beside the candles. I was there around noon, just in time to see the sunlight passed through the room from the windows. Highlighting the huge blackish grey columns and floors. Creating a very dramatic and Gothic ambiance inside the church. The carving on the wall, ceiling and cupola filled me with a sense of awe. I don't think I've seen any church interior as mind-blowing as this before. Mysterious yet captivating. </span><br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">inside Katoghike</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">the carving of two lions in the rock-cut chamber symbolising Armenian royal family</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">cupola on arches</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhx82nA-n4KVNIvyXGiCWjnxJTiGCzt25WGwLzsDGx2o6xrwzUSWh_mezRWB1Za5mkFiKpOs1h6FnM-MHP1jnPmqn2_dIPlvyy5ozT9IWzw3urZj-d3EUpuqVOE1mGP-nb-bTwO5qpz2wj6/s1600/Geghard6.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1000" data-original-width="666" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhx82nA-n4KVNIvyXGiCWjnxJTiGCzt25WGwLzsDGx2o6xrwzUSWh_mezRWB1Za5mkFiKpOs1h6FnM-MHP1jnPmqn2_dIPlvyy5ozT9IWzw3urZj-d3EUpuqVOE1mGP-nb-bTwO5qpz2wj6/s640/Geghard6.jpg" width="426" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">wall carvings</td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">Since the 13th century, the name was changed to Gedhardavank means Monastery of The Spear. It was believed the spear used by a Roman soldier to pierce the crucified Christ was brought here by St. Jude (Thaddeus) the Apostle and was keep in this monastery for 500 years. Currently the spear is exhibited at the Etchmiadzin Cathedral which is known as the oldest cathedral in the world. The Monastery of Geghard with its remarkable rock-cut churches and tombs is exceptionally well preserved and complete example of medieval Armenian monastic architecture and decorative art, with many innovatory features which had a profound influence on subsequent developments in the region.</span><br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">the Gavit</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ielziatHa70/W4J6dqwdIZI/AAAAAAAA0mo/u4kffNZfOlcFhVkA3i4UqQ-z40jBS5mcQCKgBGAs/s1600/Geghard11.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="499" data-original-width="750" height="424" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ielziatHa70/W4J6dqwdIZI/AAAAAAAA0mo/u4kffNZfOlcFhVkA3i4UqQ-z40jBS5mcQCKgBGAs/s640/Geghard11.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">the altar</td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-FJ9u5Rve3LY/W4J6dsIHNRI/AAAAAAAA0mo/7iUS3DlIq3MgORp3tnHpHa4SMAsbF_wFgCKgBGAs/s1600/Geghard14.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1000" data-original-width="666" height="640" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-FJ9u5Rve3LY/W4J6dsIHNRI/AAAAAAAA0mo/7iUS3DlIq3MgORp3tnHpHa4SMAsbF_wFgCKgBGAs/s640/Geghard14.jpg" width="426" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">some carved khachars </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-JF2Y1C3ZH9k/W4J6dp2sP4I/AAAAAAAA0mo/K57DLNGfOygoKrRi0HvMyqtxZ9GiVaOzQCKgBGAs/s1600/Geghard17.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="666" data-original-width="1000" height="426" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-JF2Y1C3ZH9k/W4J6dp2sP4I/AAAAAAAA0mo/K57DLNGfOygoKrRi0HvMyqtxZ9GiVaOzQCKgBGAs/s640/Geghard17.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">engrave crosses</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-cNRTTt6fqIE/W4J6dnHMXoI/AAAAAAAA0mo/4IhfSsLHk-UgPkYPoDR-TdcHQG041Up7wCKgBGAs/s1600/Geghard16.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="666" data-original-width="1000" height="426" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-cNRTTt6fqIE/W4J6dnHMXoI/AAAAAAAA0mo/4IhfSsLHk-UgPkYPoDR-TdcHQG041Up7wCKgBGAs/s640/Geghard16.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">the upper Gavit</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<i style="background-color: white;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">The Upper Gavit's acoustics are remarkable, perfect for Sharakan (Armenian religious chant), which sonorous notes drift across the room and seep into the adjoining areas of the monastery. Geghard was renowned as a musical school and was unique in having among its famous composers a woman, Sahakadukht, who composed and taught at the monastery in the 8th century. In those days women were forbidden to be seen by monks but Sahakadukht was so famous for her compositions that the Church allowed her to teach students at the monastery, hidden behind a curtain.</span></i><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br />
Gayane my lovely local friend stood in the middle of the room and started to sing an Armenian song. I didn't understand what's the song about but her voice echoed really really beautifully that I got chills all over my body. She also told me that local choirs frequently come to Geghard Monastery to sing at the Gavit. Pilgrimages come here to drink the healing water from the holy spring that comes out from the rock under the north wall of the church.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;"><br /></span>
<br />
<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">one of the columns with carved cross and hewn out inscriptions </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-oZ5aWxnNVFY/W4J6dloKI_I/AAAAAAAA0mo/r1F8wfqTke8ozAyW6ui7Kw9QXwqGVyp4QCKgBGAs/s1600/Geghard18.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="666" data-original-width="1000" height="426" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-oZ5aWxnNVFY/W4J6dloKI_I/AAAAAAAA0mo/r1F8wfqTke8ozAyW6ui7Kw9QXwqGVyp4QCKgBGAs/s640/Geghard18.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">towering cliffs at the Avat Valley</td></tr>
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<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US"><span style="font-family: inherit;">According to the locals, there was a legend
about a sister and a brother from a noble family who decided to build a
temple higher up the gorge of Azat River and live there. But, they couldn't
figure out where's the exact place to build it. So they prayed everyday asking
God to show them the way. They had been waiting for a sign until one morning
they saw their scuffle hoe was stuck on top of the mountain. They thought it
was the sign from God. The siblings then built the temple inside the
rock with the help of a saint virgin and lived here till the end of their
lives.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br />
Besides all the facts that's written in history, I always love to dig another
twist of the story or the urban legend about a place. It makes me wondering,
how did they get into the idea? Or is it actually what happened back then?
Perhaps because I grew up listening to tons of Indonesian urban legends as my
bedtime story. As I get older I realised most of them are just a myth but it
still fascinates me.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br />
How about you? Do you also love to seek some urban legends when you travel ?</span><span style="font-family: times, times new roman, serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></span></div>
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<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-uzrCaAXyjws/W4J6dpV7III/AAAAAAAA0mo/ADz3renU8DQq8ljA_sQhNbY_hom1ispUACKgBGAs/s1600/Geghard19.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="666" data-original-width="1000" height="426" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-uzrCaAXyjws/W4J6dpV7III/AAAAAAAA0mo/ADz3renU8DQq8ljA_sQhNbY_hom1ispUACKgBGAs/s640/Geghard19.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-BbwjRTs5uL8/W6UoMidEMRI/AAAAAAAA1iw/69_cdHRULfoblWVJ6Hv0uxFaZ1so4cYTACKgBGAs/s1600/DSCF5033a.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="426" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-BbwjRTs5uL8/W6UoMidEMRI/AAAAAAAA1iw/69_cdHRULfoblWVJ6Hv0uxFaZ1so4cYTACKgBGAs/s640/DSCF5033a.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Sujukh sellers</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgRelecSN5L7SYATgOybEbdr2pbO-u5h79QLRvwSueUrVjiAAdg9qRhcF2jeujGxPY5eZcTKKatbUHGAXne5_kxfo9aaG5UXn69UPFzNG1T0FHxq6O-p0BFb-MPrCW4kb60rN9dono8D2NS/s1600/Geghard1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="666" data-original-width="1000" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgRelecSN5L7SYATgOybEbdr2pbO-u5h79QLRvwSueUrVjiAAdg9qRhcF2jeujGxPY5eZcTKKatbUHGAXne5_kxfo9aaG5UXn69UPFzNG1T0FHxq6O-p0BFb-MPrCW4kb60rN9dono8D2NS/s640/Geghard1.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">it was hard to bid good bye</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<b><span style="font-family: inherit;">Tips:</span></b><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;">* Geghard Monastery is about 40 km away from Yerevan. You can do it as a day tour and combine it with a visit to Temple of Garni which is only 10 km away, like I did.</span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;">* I can't say much about taking public transportation but I think you can take marshrutkas or local minibus from Yerevan. The easiest way to reach Geghard is either by hiring a private car or taxi like I did, or join a day tour which can be organised by most travel agents in Yerevan.</span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;">* Thankfully I loaded up my backpack with some snacks and water that I bought from Yerevan. Because I've seen only a few shops along the way.</span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;">* Always bring some cash (Armenian Dram that is) with you. Only major supermarket in the city accept payment by credit card</span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;">* Don't forget to bring some extra battery for your camera or a power bank for your phone. You will definitely need it if you are a shutterbug like me 😁</span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;">* I explored Armenia in October 2017 and there was no entrance fee at Geghard Monastery and all other churches or monasteries that I visited. </span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;"><br /></span>
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<a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/BatWvywlD6E/?utm_source=ig_embed&utm_medium=loading" style="color: #c9c8cd; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: 17px; text-decoration: none;" target="_blank">A post shared by Debbzie Leksono ✈️ (@debbzie_leksono)</a> on <time datetime="2017-10-26T10:57:05+00:00" style="font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 17px;">Oct 26, 2017 at 3:57am PDT</time></div>
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</style>Debbzie Leksonohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11633293406090733531noreply@blogger.com22tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1006989774341308826.post-36948796104795500812018-07-29T03:22:00.000+08:002018-07-29T15:26:00.880+08:00Poland: Spending The Night At A Castle - Hotel St. BrunoGizycko, October 2016<br />
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"Dad, when I grow up I want to be a princess and live in a beautiful castle!" The 5 years old me said it firmly after watching Sleeping Beauty movie for the first time and got blown away.<br />
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"But I thought you wanted to be Cleopatra and live in a pyramid or last week you told me you want to be Tarzan and live in Africa." My Dad chuckled and shook his head. "Girl! You have such a mind-boggling imagination. You even told me you wanted to be a bird when we were in a plane!"<br />
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"I know! I know but can you build a castle for me?"<br />
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"Sure. Let's build a sand castle for now and later when you grow up, you can build your own castle. How does it sound?" The mini me squealed happily and rushed to get ready for the beach trip.<br />
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I was a very curious kid...well I still am I guess. A curious adult that is. As I remember I've always let my imagination run wild and crave for new adventures. I didn't really do playdate when I was a kid as I spent most of my time travelling. Tagged along on Dad's business trip since I was a toddler. Fairy tales books were my only friends, my everything. It accompany me during long flights or when Dad was busy with work. Mom would buy a new book for me every weekend and I would keep bugging her until she read it for me. So yes, it's easy to say that I've always been fascinated by princess stories and castles since forever.<br />
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Psst! I even tried to kiss a frog, hoping it would turn into prince charming. 🙅<br />
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-7pmo1dlfIUo/WzdgQD-0C7I/AAAAAAAAx7M/aYQtTId7g1Ua2aQiiAdc-TNgsJ751KGxgCKgBGAs/s1600/DSCF1061-01-02.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1068" data-original-width="1600" height="426" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-7pmo1dlfIUo/WzdgQD-0C7I/AAAAAAAAx7M/aYQtTId7g1Ua2aQiiAdc-TNgsJ751KGxgCKgBGAs/s640/DSCF1061-01-02.jpeg" width="640" /></a></div>
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Fortunately nowadays not only princess get to live in a castle, I found out that there are actually a bunch of castles around the world that can be rented for a night stay or a year if the budget allows. Thanks to the internet and Google! During the road trip around Baltic countries, from Vilnius in Lithuania we headed to Poland and stayed in Gizycko. I was thrilled when I found out that there's a castle-turned-hotel in the city so there's no way I would miss the chance to spend at least one night there. Dreams do come true!<br />
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St. Bruno is one of the most popular hotels in Gizycko, the biggest city in Mazury region which is also called the 1000 lakes. The red brick hotel surely has a beautiful surroundings next to the <span style="text-align: center;">Łuczański Canal, connecting the lakes Niegocin and Kisajno. I think quaint is the word perfectly describes about this place.</span><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-CPHL4mirK3w/WzdgQGnxKdI/AAAAAAAAx7M/ggByJzZU8uUoeSmV3gy2Rodd6g9ZrUhEgCKgBGAs/s1600/DSCF1059-01-01.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="426" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-CPHL4mirK3w/WzdgQGnxKdI/AAAAAAAAx7M/ggByJzZU8uUoeSmV3gy2Rodd6g9ZrUhEgCKgBGAs/s640/DSCF1059-01-01.jpeg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">glass winter garden pavilion </td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-2-i9Ye28Wi8/WzdgQAJCwyI/AAAAAAAAx7M/9Bhh7-wcSNAl2c29lP9oahC1K9rcd8EcQCKgBGAs/s1600/DSCF1089-01.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="426" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-2-i9Ye28Wi8/WzdgQAJCwyI/AAAAAAAAx7M/9Bhh7-wcSNAl2c29lP9oahC1K9rcd8EcQCKgBGAs/s640/DSCF1089-01.jpeg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">the lobby</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Wo20HQ1dRdI/WzdgQCxuf3I/AAAAAAAAx7M/kstuUI3OVVw5yzNTwAfiYog_pT303LBbQCKgBGAs/s1600/DSCF1090-01.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="426" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Wo20HQ1dRdI/WzdgQCxuf3I/AAAAAAAAx7M/kstuUI3OVVw5yzNTwAfiYog_pT303LBbQCKgBGAs/s640/DSCF1090-01.jpeg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">receptionist </td></tr>
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Hotel St. Bruno is housed in a restored Teutonic castle dates back to the 15th century. This castle has been through numerous restoration obviously. Original Teutonic Fortress was used as a Hunting Residence Lodge for renaissance princess until the year of 1850, then it as transformed to a military headquarters of the Boyen Fortress. Long story short, in 2010 the castle was finally restored to become a 4 stars boutique hotel.<br />
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My first impression as I stepped into the lobby was the contemporary design and interior looks quirky. After a swift check in, I walked around behind the lobby and found a narrow alleyway. It's dimly lit and going around like a maze. There's dozens of old portraits on the stone wall, probably pictures of some the previous landlords or knights who used to live in the castle. Walking through this alleyway alone certainly was a hair-raising experience yet triggered my curiosity. A kind of eerie feeling that made me feel even more excited. In each dark turn, I was kinda hoping to bump into a Knight or something. My Dad was right, I do have a mind-boggling imagination! 😝<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-xugUbX7D_AQ/WzdgQHQZW8I/AAAAAAAAx7M/CSWPwsCOhD0riIgigHHV5xmr7kFn3LMlwCKgBGAs/s1600/DSCF1096-01.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="426" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-xugUbX7D_AQ/WzdgQHQZW8I/AAAAAAAAx7M/CSWPwsCOhD0riIgigHHV5xmr7kFn3LMlwCKgBGAs/s640/DSCF1096-01.jpeg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-69XI_avJgp0/WzdgQNMsj5I/AAAAAAAAx7M/wiy8HjJ87qwgUqOH83blFhIaW5uMxhaswCKgBGAs/s1600/DSCF1113-01.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="426" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-69XI_avJgp0/WzdgQNMsj5I/AAAAAAAAx7M/wiy8HjJ87qwgUqOH83blFhIaW5uMxhaswCKgBGAs/s640/DSCF1113-01.jpeg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">the alleyway</td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/--_8AcIK09Qo/WzdgQEh_vKI/AAAAAAAAx7M/_kzZAjs5kCE98-1HSPJKSunhaAZt_-jCgCKgBGAs/s1600/DSCF1057-01-01.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="426" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/--_8AcIK09Qo/WzdgQEh_vKI/AAAAAAAAx7M/_kzZAjs5kCE98-1HSPJKSunhaAZt_-jCgCKgBGAs/s640/DSCF1057-01-01.jpeg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">my room for the night</td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-2YMbwMrPuRo/W1cfI812HEI/AAAAAAAAzC4/PAmauhZ4Q3UcKUW59Ts2_ojr9f-MojjLwCLcBGAs/s1600/st%2Bbruno.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="616" data-original-width="999" height="394" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-2YMbwMrPuRo/W1cfI812HEI/AAAAAAAAzC4/PAmauhZ4Q3UcKUW59Ts2_ojr9f-MojjLwCLcBGAs/s640/st%2Bbruno.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">image from <a href="https://www.amoma.com/hotel-hotel-st-bruno-341930/en" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">amoma.com</a></td></tr>
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I stayed in a double room with a sofa. Size wise it's pretty cramped but cozy enough with vintage-y interior. The beds were quite small even for me, a girl who is often called a hobbit. Perhaps I should have chosen other type of rooms such as studio, royal apartment or presidential apartment which I believe would be more spacious. Some of the room are located in the historical area of the hotel and have original parts of the castle still attached. All rooms are equipped with Internet Wi-Fi (seems like the most essential nowadays. Ha!), AC, mini bar, safe deposit box, TV and bathroom amenities.<br />
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Facilities of the hotel including Bowling Alley and the Music Club which are located in the castle vaults with old castle stone wall and curved red brick ceiling. It was a cellar, I think? Super cool ambiance along with a wide selection of alcohols. There's also billiard room, cigar room and spa with sauna and indoor swimming pool.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">bowling alley</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Music Club</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">lounge</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-aoAUTZxJwOY/W1cfrLhWn2I/AAAAAAAAzDA/mKObe8RhTyAYYOn4UzYRti3pQnYTKLu6QCLcBGAs/s1600/st%2Bbruno1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="785" data-original-width="1200" height="418" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-aoAUTZxJwOY/W1cfrLhWn2I/AAAAAAAAzDA/mKObe8RhTyAYYOn4UzYRti3pQnYTKLu6QCLcBGAs/s640/st%2Bbruno1.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">image from <a href="https://www.amoma.com/hotel-hotel-st-bruno-341930/en" rel="nofollow" style="font-size: 12.8px;" target="_blank">amoma.com</a></td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">the castle night view from the swing bridge</td></tr>
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The swing bridge in<span style="text-align: center;"> </span><span style="text-align: center;">Łuczański Canal</span> is one of the most seek attractions by visitors in Gizycko. Until today it is still operated manually by a man pushing a "stick" in rotational movement for about 5 minutes each session (quite a work out!). It opens by swinging on one end to lay along the bank of the canal, to let a yacht of ship passing through. In its closed position, it works as a road over the canal allowing traffic to cross. I think it was my first time seeing a swing bridge operated manually. Pretty interesting! The history of the bridge dates back to the 19th century but have gone through some renovations to this day. Please do check the scheduled time if you are interested to see the whole <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZCNPJnT3VYs" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">opening routine</a>.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">the swing bridge at Łuczański Canal</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">La Bibliotheque restaurant</td></tr>
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At the La Bibliotheque restaurant, the nine metres high ceilings gives a spacious and grand feeling as I walked in. And a two storey book shelf wallpaper adding a sense of depth of the interior, as if I was inside a library.....hence the name of the restaurant. I'm not really good at elaborating the interior design but believe me, it is too cute it felt like I was having breakfast inside a doll house. If you love shabby chic design, you would go "Awwwww, so cute! Awwww, soooo pweety!" all the time. There's just ample of Instagramable spots to take picture at.<br />
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I chose a table in the glass winter garden pavilion so I could soak up the early morning sun while enjoying my food. Bliss! I could really get used to this princess-y life, in a heart beat.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">glass winter garden pavilion </td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">cold station at breakfast buffet</td></tr>
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The restaurant serves modern menu that combines traditional Polish cuisine with global trend. All products are delivered fresh daily from the local suppliers. There's wide array of food on breakfast buffet from cold station for varieties of ham and cheese, egg and omelet station, assorted bread, danish or croissant, hot station for grilled chicken, baked potatoes and else, also beverage station and dessert station. While the tea and coffee were served at my table.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-wb4Kut2CrKk/WzdgQG5pFNI/AAAAAAAAx7M/6vN2pOaHla4Tnib7EFfyvrmSBaHtyggzwCKgBGAs/s1600/IMG_0694-01.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="426" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-wb4Kut2CrKk/WzdgQG5pFNI/AAAAAAAAx7M/6vN2pOaHla4Tnib7EFfyvrmSBaHtyggzwCKgBGAs/s640/IMG_0694-01.jpeg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">shabby chic interior </td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-GdBg3h6CBIk/WzdgQB_UTRI/AAAAAAAAx7M/XhI40yBpXWcdY2QG_upq9zd8qYEHBfeewCKgBGAs/s1600/DSCF1183-01.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="426" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-GdBg3h6CBIk/WzdgQB_UTRI/AAAAAAAAx7M/XhI40yBpXWcdY2QG_upq9zd8qYEHBfeewCKgBGAs/s640/DSCF1183-01.jpeg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">morning view from my room</td></tr>
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One thing I regret about my stay in Hotel St. Bruno, it was such a brief one night stay. I could really stay for a couple days here to enjoy all the facilities they offer and explore this pretty town of Gizycko. Unfortunately I've already booked my visit and a lunch session at <a href="http://www.debbzie.com/2017/01/poland-malbork-castle-biggest-castle-in.html" target="_blank">Marlbork Castle</a> which is 200ish km away, so this princess had to leave her castle to pay a visit to another castle. Wait up, Prince Charming, I'm on my way 👸<br />
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Have you ever stayed in a castle before? Which castle would you recommend me to stay next time?<br />
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<b><span style="font-size: large;">Hotel St. Bruno</span></b> (*4)<br />
ul. St. Brunona 1<br />
11-500 Gizycko, Poland<br />
Phone: +48 877 326 500<br />
<a href="https://www.hotelstbruno.pl/">https://www.hotelstbruno.pl</a><br />
<br />Debbzie Leksonohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11633293406090733531noreply@blogger.com21tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1006989774341308826.post-25363780820063639322018-06-06T11:00:00.000+08:002018-06-10T01:56:22.613+08:00Chiang Rai: The Blue Temple - Wat Rong Suea TenChiang Rai, February 2017<br />
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Wat Rong Khun or the White Temple is undoubtedly the most famous landmark in Chiang Rai. It's the first images popped up when I was googling some information about must visit places in Chiang Rai. While I think the architecture is indeed stunning, my heart was actually stolen by the Blue Temple - a lesser known temple located slightly outside Chiang Rai's city centre, in Rim Kok District. The Blue Temple is about 7 km away from Mae Fah Luang - Chiang Rai International Airport.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Wat Rong Suea Ten</td></tr>
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The Blue Temple or it's called Wat Rong Suea Ten by the locals is considered a new temple. Construction of the monastery and temple started from 2005 on a 6 acres area - upon the ruins of an ancient temple which abandoned nearly 100 years ago. The main hall was only completed in January 2016 and until today there's still works going on sites. Thus only a handful of visitors around when I was there, which is one of the reasons I enjoyed this temple more than the White Temple. It was so serene and enhance a more spiritual experience.<br />
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"Suea Ten" in Thai literally means the dancing tigers. According to the locals, it's an area where some tigers used to jumped over the Mae Kok River. The tigers leap in such graceful way that it looked as if they were dancing, hence the name of Rong Suea Ten village. Honestly, I was secretly disappointed that there wasn't any tigers in Ballet tutu dress doing a tiptoe <i>pirouette</i> or g<i>rand jetté. </i>I know, I shouldn't set my hopes too high 🙅<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">sunset gleam</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Naga</td></tr>
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"Wow! Such a striking colours!" I blurted out upon seeing the exterior of the temple which is mainly in electric blue colour (or is it Smurfs blue?) embellished with intricate gold details and covered with bright terracotta roof tiles. It certainly looks very different from any other traditional temples I have visited in Thailand. A more vibrant one I should say. A local friend told me that blue colour represents Dharma in tribute to Buddha which is also the symbol of purity, wisdom and healing. Even the pair of fierce naga (dragon) that guarding the hall's entrance are in blue colour.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Blue Temple, Chiang Rai</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Blue Temple ceiling</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">beautiful painting at Wat Rong Suea Ten</td></tr>
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I was walking into the <i>ubosot</i> or the main praying hall when I froze in awe. My eyes widened as they swept across the room. The tall pearl-white Buddha statue is undoubtedly beautiful but what amazed me more was the paintings that covers the entire walls, pillars and ceiling. Delicate paintings in Thai contemporary style was created by Phuttha Kabkaew. He is a student of the national artist - Chalermchai Kositpipat who designed Wat Rong Khun or the White Temple. Hand painted murals along the blue walls depict the Lord Buddha's spiritual journey and also a fiery giant demon can be seen atop the exit door which depicts Hell. I love the fact that there's some huge windows along both sides of the main hall that allow natural lights and cool breezes to pass through.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Wat Rong Suea Ten</td></tr>
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<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-uGdlQA6nh8c/WwEZ_hTOBNI/AAAAAAAAwYQ/f6_irm5Ft78SfNt_jMXfbseg3W4PyhspQCKgBGAs/s1600/blue-temple10-01.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="666" data-original-width="1000" height="426" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-uGdlQA6nh8c/WwEZ_hTOBNI/AAAAAAAAwYQ/f6_irm5Ft78SfNt_jMXfbseg3W4PyhspQCKgBGAs/s640/blue-temple10-01.jpeg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-FNSxTXwGLoY/WwEZ_kMce_I/AAAAAAAAwYQ/ir0vnt23Dtk_ZrOo0ALyEwTQGULy5a6-QCKgBGAs/s1600/blue-temple8-01.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1000" data-original-width="666" height="640" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-FNSxTXwGLoY/WwEZ_kMce_I/AAAAAAAAwYQ/ir0vnt23Dtk_ZrOo0ALyEwTQGULy5a6-QCKgBGAs/s640/blue-temple8-01.jpeg" width="426" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">one of the guard with Dharma wheel representing the teaching of the Buddha</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-zKGfeUolDrY/WwEZ_sz34PI/AAAAAAAAwYQ/AXU3dGf5mIswZutDuTbX0yjxgBj5hKIEgCKgBGAs/s1600/blue-temple1-01.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1000" data-original-width="666" height="640" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-zKGfeUolDrY/WwEZ_sz34PI/AAAAAAAAwYQ/AXU3dGf5mIswZutDuTbX0yjxgBj5hKIEgCKgBGAs/s640/blue-temple1-01.jpeg" width="426" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Green Yasha</td></tr>
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Around this temple I also spotted some Yakshas known as guardian warriors who keep away evil spirits. It's very common in Buddhist temples throughout the country since the 14th century. Yakshas are important element in Thai temple art and architecture.<br />
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At the back of the temple, there's a Buddha statue displaying Abhaya Mudra hand position or gesture of fearlessness. It represents protection, peace and benevolence.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ikwWjCkwn5c/Ww0ZrYHH2EI/AAAAAAAAwsA/QHELA2Llf4oWefAnTH-G7jLn1KIQ5LxOACKgBGAs/s1600/blue-temple11-01.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="666" data-original-width="1000" height="426" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ikwWjCkwn5c/Ww0ZrYHH2EI/AAAAAAAAwsA/QHELA2Llf4oWefAnTH-G7jLn1KIQ5LxOACKgBGAs/s640/blue-temple11-01.jpeg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"> the standing Buddha statue at the rear </td></tr>
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I was walking towards the parking lot when I turned around, decided to take some last shots of the Blue temple. It was right before the sun went below the buildings behind this temple. The pinkish sunset light against the intricate ornaments of the temple creating luminous golden orbs as I clicked my camera shutter. I looked at my camera screen and smiled. I knew I have captured a perfect image I want to remember about my visit to this beautiful Blue Temple. Whenever I look at this photo, I can still feel the warmth of sunlight in my face. Fond memories, indeed 😊<br />
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<b>Tips:</b><br />
* Don't forget to take off your shoes/sandals before entering the main hall<br />
* Entrance fee is free and photography is allowed inside the <i>ubosot</i><br />
* However selfies could be considered rude since it's disrespectful to turn your back on Buddha statue<br />
* Never point your feet at Buddha statue<br />
* Dress properly and prevent loud talking<br />
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<b>How to get there:</b><br />
I'm not quite sure if there's any public transportation to Wat Rong Suea Ten since I went there by a private vehicle. Take Highway 1 north before crossing Kok River Bridge. After about 350 metres you'll find a direction sign to this temple and turn left. For a fuss free trip, you can always hire Tuk-Tuk or Taxi for a very affordable fare 😁<br />
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<a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/BfqS67SF5Rm/" style="color: #c9c8cd; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: 17px; text-decoration: none;" target="_blank">A post shared by Debbzie Leksono ✈️ (@debbzie_leksono)</a> on <time datetime="2018-02-26T13:02:54+00:00" style="font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 17px;">Feb 26, 2018 at 5:02am PST</time></div>
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<script async="" defer="" src="//www.instagram.com/embed.js"></script>Debbzie Leksonohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11633293406090733531noreply@blogger.com40tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1006989774341308826.post-77688916994820835192018-05-12T10:16:00.000+08:002018-05-12T15:17:06.874+08:00Croatia: Licitar Heart & Pickpocket In Zagreb<span style="font-family: inherit;">Zagreb, August 2013</span><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Ckhiw2WHSoY/WvW0CeeS-_I/AAAAAAAAwEc/iAldQUMgHzo6m1LoSUQcDhlvsvvoNA_9wCKgBGAs/s1600/IMG_5078.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="426" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Ckhiw2WHSoY/WvW0CeeS-_I/AAAAAAAAwEc/iAldQUMgHzo6m1LoSUQcDhlvsvvoNA_9wCKgBGAs/s640/IMG_5078.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">St. Mark's church in Zagreb</td></tr>
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<span style="background-color: white; font-family: inherit;"><br /></span>
<span style="background-color: white; font-family: inherit;">I can't believe it's been 5 years since my Balkan trip! I can't believe there's still tons of stories from my previous trips that I haven't post here. I should really find a way to cure my chronic procrastination! Any tips, guys?</span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; font-family: inherit;"><br /></span>
<span style="background-color: white; font-family: inherit;">My parents, sister and I were exploring Slovenia then travelled through the stunning </span><span style="background-color: white; font-family: inherit;"><a href="http://www.debbzie.com/2014/07/croatia-plitvice-national-park-war.html" target="_blank">Plitvice National Park</a>, </span><span style="background-color: white; font-family: inherit;">Split and </span><span style="background-color: white; font-family: inherit;"><a href="http://www.debbzie.com/2013/08/croatia-trogir-little-venice-in-dalmatia.html" target="_blank">Trogir</a></span><span style="background-color: white; font-family: inherit;">.
Spent a couple nights in </span><span style="background-color: white; font-family: inherit;"><a href="http://www.debbzie.com/2015/06/croatia-dubrovnik-caught-in-my-lens.html" target="_blank">Dubrovnik</a> </span><span style="background-color: white; font-family: inherit;">where we found </span><span style="background-color: white; font-family: inherit;">a nudist beach </span><span style="background-color: white; font-family: inherit;">in <a href="http://www.debbzie.com/2014/05/croatia-secluded-eden-nudist-beach-in.html" target="_blank">Lokrum Island</a> during a boat tour. Moved to Montenegro and Bosnia & Herzegovina before finally arrived in Zagreb, the capital of Croatia.</span><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjGhOvK0s05GC8BaZDm7-w-kceNTtnDIYxUEFyGsNfFVlXYw5fhxGvFcmclwXdHV4uzVsmiWe6TrC9lvxu5vcdbsk4kizht6AAEx7CgpIia99AJFqN66Z3bG2EFhhDgBheNMnlqp63c3sR6/s1600/IMG_5030.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1065" data-original-width="1600" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjGhOvK0s05GC8BaZDm7-w-kceNTtnDIYxUEFyGsNfFVlXYw5fhxGvFcmclwXdHV4uzVsmiWe6TrC9lvxu5vcdbsk4kizht6AAEx7CgpIia99AJFqN66Z3bG2EFhhDgBheNMnlqp63c3sR6/s640/IMG_5030.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">a quiet morning</td></tr>
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<span style="background-color: white; font-family: inherit;">We started the Old Town walking tour early in the morning to avoid the unbearable heat on
midday. Seriously, summer in Balkan can be harsh! Also it was the peak of summer holiday so the town got really crowded as the sun reached its
highest point in the sky. At 9AM most of the shops haven't started their business yet. So we wandered
around Lower Town until Upper Town where we visited the beautiful St. Mark's church. It was a perfect
time to observe the local people doing their daily activities. Even if you don't have a goal, a long walk through the streets of Zagreb always brings discoveries.</span><br />
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<span style="background-color: white; font-family: inherit;">Fun fact: Did you know that Croatia is the homeland of the tie?</span><br />
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<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Xr7UmzqapuU/WvW0CSvUpKI/AAAAAAAAwEc/bEKeW6M8wZwuKNIWfDe2IozK5jvzzIWSwCKgBGAs/s1600/IMG_5056.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="426" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Xr7UmzqapuU/WvW0CSvUpKI/AAAAAAAAwEc/bEKeW6M8wZwuKNIWfDe2IozK5jvzzIWSwCKgBGAs/s640/IMG_5056.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-RcEXObVCWm8/WvW0CV-J1YI/AAAAAAAAwEc/hjjr2fIqW5wwfLgk5MSVWd3Dn0sknC4mACKgBGAs/s1600/IMG_5118a.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1066" height="640" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-RcEXObVCWm8/WvW0CV-J1YI/AAAAAAAAwEc/hjjr2fIqW5wwfLgk5MSVWd3Dn0sknC4mACKgBGAs/s640/IMG_5118a.jpg" width="426" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">beautiful dog! 😍</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-sQlSI06NssY/WvW0CRg6auI/AAAAAAAAwEc/3KN2y3Q3dqw4est8L3LR0EjqTx-7fqpEgCKgBGAs/s1600/IMG_5044a.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="426" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-sQlSI06NssY/WvW0CRg6auI/AAAAAAAAwEc/3KN2y3Q3dqw4est8L3LR0EjqTx-7fqpEgCKgBGAs/s640/IMG_5044a.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Dolac Market in Zagreb</td></tr>
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<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-BcEsVsALW74/WvW0CeAqs_I/AAAAAAAAwEc/-QmPbOF_UNQy2nIVY4CC5J_QzqLzuGNWQCKgBGAs/s1600/IMG_5045.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1068" data-original-width="1600" height="426" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-BcEsVsALW74/WvW0CeAqs_I/AAAAAAAAwEc/-QmPbOF_UNQy2nIVY4CC5J_QzqLzuGNWQCKgBGAs/s640/IMG_5045.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<span style="background-color: white; font-family: inherit;">If you love traditional market like I do, you shouldn't miss Dolac Market. The farmer's market is located in
Gornji Grad - not far from Zagreb's Cathedral and the main square. People from all over the city come to this market to get groceries and other fresh product, specially on weekends. The vibrant red umbrellas agains the colourful products they sell there instantly caught my attention. I enjoy being in the middle of chatters and negotiation that buzzing around me. It's gotta be one of the most colourful sights in Zagreb! </span><span style="background-color: white; font-family: inherit;">Even if shopping is not your thing, there's some cafes and restaurant which is a great spot to absorb the vibe of the town and to experience local flavours. Or like I did, scouring pretty traditional handmade stuff and souvenirs. Dolac Market opens everyday from 7AM until around 1PM.</span><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-vldP9Dj7umQ/WvW0CZ5e05I/AAAAAAAAwEc/CqkheRaLVps0nRlvT9BzXZuf69JhleUaQCKgBGAs/s1600/IMG_5111.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1068" data-original-width="1600" height="426" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-vldP9Dj7umQ/WvW0CZ5e05I/AAAAAAAAwEc/CqkheRaLVps0nRlvT9BzXZuf69JhleUaQCKgBGAs/s640/IMG_5111.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">handmade Croatian embroidery and lace</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-QdFBkEVAunE/WvW0CSlG7qI/AAAAAAAAwEc/dvlzjVCv5FIkvL3yTRzhaYCPmUQMoYk_wCKgBGAs/s1600/IMG_5088.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="426" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-QdFBkEVAunE/WvW0CSlG7qI/AAAAAAAAwEc/dvlzjVCv5FIkvL3yTRzhaYCPmUQMoYk_wCKgBGAs/s640/IMG_5088.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Licitar Heart</td></tr>
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<span style="background-color: white; font-family: inherit;">While wandering around the city of Zagreb, I've seen this pretty intricately decorated red heart with a little
mirror on the centre - almost everywhere. Being a super curious cat, I just had to stop at one of the stalls and
asked the seller what's all the hype about. The name is Licitar hearts and it's an interesting part of the old
Croatian cultural heritage. Though the real Licitars are actually made out of gingerbread. Traditionally,
instead of roses, it was used by young men to express their love to the girl they fond of on Valentine's day. Suddenly my imagination run wild and I visualised this romantic scene...</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">👱 : "Ahem! (nervously presenting a Licitar heart to the girl). Dear Walawuluwili (or insert any preferred names here)...errr....I...I...really like you. Would you accept this heart of mine?"<br />
👸 : (hesitant but eagerly accepting the Licitar. Her cheeks turn to rose colour as she smiles).<br />
👱 : "That face you see in the mirror is the most beautiful girl in this universe and my most favourite things
in the world besides noodle and gelato."
</span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;">👸 : "Awwww! That's me! It's my face in the mirror!" (blushing even more)<br />
👱 : "Of course it's you! I would have died if it was the face of the Evil Queen in Snow White!
</span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;">Walawuluwili, would you be my girl?"<br />
👸 : "Yes, I would! I like you too, Baraburubiri (or insert any preferred names here)". 💏 💏 💏
</span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: inherit;">...and they lived happily ever after...or until they fight about what to eat for dinner.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: inherit;">Okay! I should never write a romantic piece ever. Horror stories </span>definitely suit me better.<span style="font-family: inherit;"> </span></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-mTUhqvTplzU/WvW12zXml2I/AAAAAAAAwEs/VHvVGJj2lgU_4ju0w4Q_eHumq1mJHCGhgCKgBGAs/s1600/IMG_5093a.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="426" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-mTUhqvTplzU/WvW12zXml2I/AAAAAAAAwEs/VHvVGJj2lgU_4ju0w4Q_eHumq1mJHCGhgCKgBGAs/s640/IMG_5093a.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Croatian souvenirs </td></tr>
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<span style="background-color: white; font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">So yeah, it's corny but sweet. It's sweet but corny yet I still smile when I look at this Licitar hearts.</span></span></div>
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The colourful decorated cakes of sweet honey dough dated back to Middle Ages when food crafts became
widely popular. It represents a special sign of devotion and attention. Nowadays they are sold as souvenirs
in various form such as plates, bells, jars, fridge magnets, and else; as well as to decorate Christmas tree
and wedding favours for guests.
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">Croatians are very proud of it, specially after Licitar heart was listed on the UNESCO list of Protected
Intangible Cultural Heritage. It's still given as a way of showing affection to the loved ones. </span></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-RmLJtWzeBaU/WvW0CZpYWeI/AAAAAAAAwEc/8Kz5iz7EZvwQ4muUZtBjtFIcg1yNjg4fQCKgBGAs/s1600/%255BOriginals%255D.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1066" data-original-width="1600" height="426" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-RmLJtWzeBaU/WvW0CZpYWeI/AAAAAAAAwEc/8Kz5iz7EZvwQ4muUZtBjtFIcg1yNjg4fQCKgBGAs/s640/%255BOriginals%255D.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">a bizarre collection of keepsakes from failed love affairs</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-MGltQEr5hQc/WvW0CfBMBaI/AAAAAAAAwEc/8tvacJbZXyEOgqDVQG53162X4Y526q6pgCKgBGAs/s1600/IMG_5116.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1067" height="640" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-MGltQEr5hQc/WvW0CfBMBaI/AAAAAAAAwEc/8tvacJbZXyEOgqDVQG53162X4Y526q6pgCKgBGAs/s640/IMG_5116.jpg" width="426" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary Cathedral </td></tr>
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<span style="background-color: white; font-family: inherit;">Before leaving Zagreb, we managed to visit the Neo-Gothic styled Cathedral of Zagreb. The Assumption of
the Blessed Virgin Mary which dates back to 1217 was formerly known as St. Stephen's Cathedral, located
in Kaptol Square. Its twin 108 metres (354 ft) high spires soar over the city and made it the tallest building
in Croatia.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">The original construction of the Cathedral was damaged during the Tartar attack and and a fire in the 13th
century. However the fatal destruction was during the Great Zagreb Earthquake on 9 November 1880. The
deadly earthquake struck Zagreb at 07:03:03 which damaged the cathedral beyond repairs and the
cathedral clock stopped working. Today the clock is mounted on the defence wall outside the cathedral
and always show the time 7:03 as a remembrance to the disaster. </span></div>
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<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-gPuNGFg47GA/WvW0CQV_ncI/AAAAAAAAwEc/7z589bBNYN4lB9-lneKWcEJjRoVtTcWcwCKgBGAs/s1600/IMG_5031.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="426" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-gPuNGFg47GA/WvW0CQV_ncI/AAAAAAAAwEc/7z589bBNYN4lB9-lneKWcEJjRoVtTcWcwCKgBGAs/s640/IMG_5031.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-7wHzaJ6jaAk/WvW0Cc7nOPI/AAAAAAAAwEc/Y-1A12kX4-Uo9P9n8DTHO20mVajDha3_gCKgBGAs/s1600/IMG_5122a-01.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1067" height="640" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-7wHzaJ6jaAk/WvW0Cc7nOPI/AAAAAAAAwEc/Y-1A12kX4-Uo9P9n8DTHO20mVajDha3_gCKgBGAs/s640/IMG_5122a-01.jpeg" width="426" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">interior of The Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary Cathedral </td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-fWaW9kJWVm4/WvW0CUDfbuI/AAAAAAAAwEc/Ldqti96E7z0D6MOnt2kNtzazIFVOf9_jQCKgBGAs/s1600/IMG_5129a.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1065" height="640" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-fWaW9kJWVm4/WvW0CUDfbuI/AAAAAAAAwEc/Ldqti96E7z0D6MOnt2kNtzazIFVOf9_jQCKgBGAs/s640/IMG_5129a.jpg" width="426" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Grave of Cardinal Aloysius Stepinac</td></tr>
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<span style="background-color: white; font-family: inherit;">We were walking around the grave of the former archbishop of Zagreb, Cardinal Aloysius Stepinac
amongst a group of visitors when I felt that someone was watching me intensely. You know, the strange
feeling you get when you're being stared at though we can't see them? I took a glance around the church
and noticed a group of three women sitting on the front pew were whispering to each other while pointing
towards us. I shrugged off the suspicious thoughts and assumed they were just amused about how different our looks compared to other visitors. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">I was walking with my sister just a few metres ahead my parents when suddenly I
heard my Mom screamed her lungs out. If you have met my Mom in person, you'll noticed that she has a overly powerful voice that will put Freddie </span><strike style="font-family: inherit;">Krueger</strike><span style="font-family: inherit;"> Mercury to shame. Her 'AGGHH' sound echoed off
the quiet church and I looked back in shock. I thought she fell down or something. I ran towards her and
saw the trio women that stared at us earlier were standing too close behind my Mom. With startled face,
they tried to move away from my Mom calmly. Obviously Mom's voice drew lots of attention to our
direction. Two security guys were approaching us along with some curious visitors.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">"I felt a tiny movement in my handbag as they walked very close to me!" Mom showed her handbag that already being unzipped. I could tell from her face that she was shocked too. The security rushed to the
trio who nearly reached the exit door and stopped them right there. I came closer as the women were
questioned by the security. But they kept saying "No English, no English!" then continued in French. They tried really hard to act calm but we could easily noticed a glimpse of panic on their face. Another visitor, a middle aged guy approached us and said something in Croatian to the security.
Apparently he saw them doing the deed earlier. After a while, one of the security told me that we may leave
and they escorted the pickpocket to the office to take further action.</span></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiOrTX5tj-GzHvOYjfQptNxW6NhtkgqBa6rjceI76DP3883qok3vdJRCIvoLQb_M7yOJPSOo2sxYxm59eMjsjKHrocIZ58hF9aQtK-3cmeKxph2WbOH1I74nWBY_vIzHbJhiS7rQUGdWI-q/s1600/IMG_5100-01.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiOrTX5tj-GzHvOYjfQptNxW6NhtkgqBa6rjceI76DP3883qok3vdJRCIvoLQb_M7yOJPSOo2sxYxm59eMjsjKHrocIZ58hF9aQtK-3cmeKxph2WbOH1I74nWBY_vIzHbJhiS7rQUGdWI-q/s640/IMG_5100-01.jpeg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Zagreb</td></tr>
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<span style="background-color: white; font-family: inherit;"><br /></span>
<span style="background-color: white; font-family: inherit;">My family and I then sat in a bench in the church yard, trying to grasp about what happened earlier.</span><br />
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"Can you believe we were almost pick pocketed inside a church!" I exclaimed as my parents nodded in
disbelief. "And you know, Mom...for a second I thought the church was about to collapse because your
voice is more harmful than an earthquake!" We laughed softly as we stood up and walked towards our bus.
Such an amusing way to end our road trip around Balkan countries. That day we left the beautiful city of
Zagreb with a not so beautiful experience. Nevertheless the precious memory will stay in our heart for a
very long time and will put a smile in our face whenever we remember it. Shit happens on travelling, let's
just laugh it off and keep walking. 💋
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<blockquote class="instagram-media" data-instgrm-permalink="https://www.instagram.com/p/BGomwniOEb6/" data-instgrm-version="8" style="background: #fff; border-radius: 3px; border: 0; box-shadow: 0 0 1px 0 rgba(0 , 0 , 0 , 0.5) , 0 1px 10px 0 rgba(0 , 0 , 0 , 0.15); margin: 1px; max-width: 658px; padding: 0; width: 99.375%;">
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<a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/BGomwniOEb6/" style="color: #c9c8cd; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: 17px; text-decoration: none;" target="_blank">A post shared by Debbzie Leksono ✈️ (@debbzie_leksono)</a> on <time datetime="2016-06-14T12:12:55+00:00" style="font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 17px;">Jun 14, 2016 at 5:12am PDT</time></div>
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Debbzie Leksonohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11633293406090733531noreply@blogger.com21tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1006989774341308826.post-21541148100319509552018-04-14T09:00:00.000+08:002018-05-11T02:11:28.368+08:00Georgia: Splendid Aerial View Over TbilisiTbilisi, October 2017<br />
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-8AWMKovm4lw/WrdaNY6iKdI/AAAAAAAAuwE/XrNvG3YpIjs2-VDWfmbi-DFdhBRiG-KewCKgBGAs/s1600/tbilisi7-01.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="666" data-original-width="1000" height="426" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-8AWMKovm4lw/WrdaNY6iKdI/AAAAAAAAuwE/XrNvG3YpIjs2-VDWfmbi-DFdhBRiG-KewCKgBGAs/s640/tbilisi7-01.jpeg" width="640" /></a></div>
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When I posted this picture on Instagram, I got some DMs and comments asking where is the best spot to enjoy aerial view over Tbilisi, the capital of Georgia. There are several across the city I believe and I managed to visit two of them which are the most popular, Narikala Fortress and Mtatsminda Park.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-4izoOT7k_iI/WrdaNe1BrKI/AAAAAAAAuwE/htgGK8tObIkNgY05tnfHwrgED1xQwflRQCKgBGAs/s1600/Tbilisi-01.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="668" data-original-width="1000" height="426" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-4izoOT7k_iI/WrdaNe1BrKI/AAAAAAAAuwE/htgGK8tObIkNgY05tnfHwrgED1xQwflRQCKgBGAs/s640/Tbilisi-01.jpeg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Tbilisi cable car</td></tr>
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First thing first, how to get to Narikala Fortress? Well there's 2 options which are trekking up from the Old Town until you reach the fortress if you are physically fit and love a bit of adventure, or sit back and relax while the cable car whisking you up to the hill. With a heavy tummy after a hearty breakfast, I should have chosen the first option to burn the calories. But of course I chose the latter because even though I have a 'love & hate relationship' with heights, I've always enjoy having a-bird-like experience, gazing down while the view under my feet changes swiftly.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-pJJQM0k2HqI/WrdaNee5zWI/AAAAAAAAuwE/pkVGpFLLy2YHKkPUI2LrL3Jd6iQNLNA0QCKgBGAs/s1600/tbilisi1-01.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="666" data-original-width="1000" height="426" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-pJJQM0k2HqI/WrdaNee5zWI/AAAAAAAAuwE/pkVGpFLLy2YHKkPUI2LrL3Jd6iQNLNA0QCKgBGAs/s640/tbilisi1-01.jpeg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Tbilisi Aerial Tram</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-t6SPv86m_HM/WrdaNbVT7vI/AAAAAAAAuwE/dNnO-5CkOsM5t4Sl_pEJU38jvMni-QTGACKgBGAs/s1600/tbilisi2-01.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="666" data-original-width="1000" height="426" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-t6SPv86m_HM/WrdaNbVT7vI/AAAAAAAAuwE/dNnO-5CkOsM5t4Sl_pEJU38jvMni-QTGACKgBGAs/s640/tbilisi2-01.jpeg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Mtkvari river</td></tr>
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Tbilisi Aerial Tram opened a couple years back in 2012, it connects Rike Park with Narikala Fortress. As my cable car made a smooth glide over Mtkvari river, I caught a glimpse of Metekhi church on the left and the Bridge of Peace on the right. I wish the ride lasted longer than 3 minutes though. Felt like just in a blink of my slanted eyes I reached the top station at 492 metres altitude. Okay, I shouldn't complain since it cost only 2.50 GEL (Georgian Lari) / 1 USD / 14.000 IDR for each ride, which is considered very cheap. Splendid scenery without even breaking a sweat of course it was well worth it!<br />
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Note: Don't forget to purchase a Metromoney or metro card in advance. Any transportation in Tbilisi such as ropeway, subway, bus and marshrutky (microbus) is paid using this card. It cost another 2 GEL for the card but some rides like this Aerial Tram allows you to use the Metromoney for whole family or group as long as you have enough deposit in it.<br />
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Oh! I've also been told that there are several glass bottom cabin if you fancy a more thrill ride like the one I had in <a href="http://www.debbzie.com/2012/11/hong-kong-crystal-cable-car-big-buddha.html" target="_blank">Hong Kong</a>. Find a cabin with a 'only 5 person allowed' sign or simply ask the friendly staff there.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-d4daE6zokLc/WrdaNfxMcZI/AAAAAAAAuwE/2Tl5vjnCbRgn1-Ojnz9-0u7EtS_tbGTTQCKgBGAs/s1600/tbilisi3-01.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="666" data-original-width="1000" height="426" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-d4daE6zokLc/WrdaNfxMcZI/AAAAAAAAuwE/2Tl5vjnCbRgn1-Ojnz9-0u7EtS_tbGTTQCKgBGAs/s640/tbilisi3-01.jpeg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">the view over Tbilisi Old Town</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-5_R4rfkLbbI/WrdaNc-mtJI/AAAAAAAAuwE/h0jpO8pgN2UW_9rpPFV1sl6R5Dnz7gIMwCKgBGAs/s1600/tbilisi4-01.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="666" data-original-width="1000" height="426" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-5_R4rfkLbbI/WrdaNc-mtJI/AAAAAAAAuwE/h0jpO8pgN2UW_9rpPFV1sl6R5Dnz7gIMwCKgBGAs/s640/tbilisi4-01.jpeg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">scroll down to read about Tbilisi TV Tower in the far right</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-dspCNu1-asE/WrdaNZLFqvI/AAAAAAAAuwE/1ygBmvyr6842muzENinCQ9MI3cYuUs2-gCKgBGAs/s1600/tbilisi5-01.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1238" data-original-width="824" height="640" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-dspCNu1-asE/WrdaNZLFqvI/AAAAAAAAuwE/1ygBmvyr6842muzENinCQ9MI3cYuUs2-gCKgBGAs/s640/tbilisi5-01.jpeg" width="424" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The Mother of Georgia</td></tr>
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The 12 metres statue of Kartlis Deda caught my attention as soon as I hopped off the cable car.<br />
She is famously known as the Mother of Georgia represents a woman with a sword in her right hand and a bowl of wine in the left. It symbolise Georgian national character which is welcoming friends with wine but ready to fight enemies with a sword. See, never underestimate the power of a woman, Y'all! We can be feminine, really nice and fierce at the same time 😬<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-TbX3yvLvtlQ/WrdaNZAUEyI/AAAAAAAAuwE/Zg2lqdO_KPkcafVCF5OblQzLd4TqkcscACKgBGAs/s1600/tbilisi6-01.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="666" data-original-width="1000" height="426" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-TbX3yvLvtlQ/WrdaNZAUEyI/AAAAAAAAuwE/Zg2lqdO_KPkcafVCF5OblQzLd4TqkcscACKgBGAs/s640/tbilisi6-01.jpeg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">some souvenir stalls</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-oQuWkFo01cM/Wsx0LVrvC1I/AAAAAAAAvJE/KDJtMxHoaMwC3mG9fcuChI3lNZgmdlPyACKgBGAs/s1600/2017_1023_01584700-02.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="945" data-original-width="1418" height="426" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-oQuWkFo01cM/Wsx0LVrvC1I/AAAAAAAAvJE/KDJtMxHoaMwC3mG9fcuChI3lNZgmdlPyACKgBGAs/s640/2017_1023_01584700-02.jpeg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">the only decent picture of me</td></tr>
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Though that morning the weather was super nice and clear, the strong wind is another story. Crazy wind simultaneously blew my hair to every direction that in most of pictures I look like Medusa. You know, from the Greek mythology, a woman with living venomous snakes as her hair. After a while, I gave up trying and went for souvenirs shopping at some of those stalls instead. Ahem...you know, to help the local economy.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-vM7SoZElZC8/WrdaNcAv92I/AAAAAAAAuwE/zgjrhWZX40ApAXwqeSvheJV8OeBONfQwACKgBGAs/s1600/tbilisi8-01.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1000" data-original-width="666" height="640" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-vM7SoZElZC8/WrdaNcAv92I/AAAAAAAAuwE/zgjrhWZX40ApAXwqeSvheJV8OeBONfQwACKgBGAs/s640/tbilisi8-01.jpeg" width="426" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">hike down </td></tr>
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<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-iHg17CAv9nc/WrdaNaAS39I/AAAAAAAAuwE/oZcr1Y9gNJExyvtbzCr30dSF-Dz9dJMVgCKgBGAs/s1600/tbilisi9-01.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="666" data-original-width="1000" height="426" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-iHg17CAv9nc/WrdaNaAS39I/AAAAAAAAuwE/oZcr1Y9gNJExyvtbzCr30dSF-Dz9dJMVgCKgBGAs/s640/tbilisi9-01.jpeg" width="640" /></a></div>
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To compensate my laziness earlier, I decided to hike down back to the Old Town. Just an easy stroll and turned out to be the best decision ever as the view along the way just as gorgeous. I got to enjoy the cityscape from a different angle and to admire more details of the buildings . Definitely it offers more than taking the tramway down. I would wholeheartedly suggest you to do it when you visit Tbilisi. A cable car ride up to Narikala Fortress and hike down back to the city or the other way around. Unfortunately I didn't explore the Narikala Fortress so I can't really say much about this 4th century fortress.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ZvsL7n8YQT4/WrdaNTN9UGI/AAAAAAAAuwE/YuA-entfI0IJ9fCPxOKUzvtoWf1eaqAMgCKgBGAs/s1600/tbilisi10-01.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="666" data-original-width="1000" height="426" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ZvsL7n8YQT4/WrdaNTN9UGI/AAAAAAAAuwE/YuA-entfI0IJ9fCPxOKUzvtoWf1eaqAMgCKgBGAs/s640/tbilisi10-01.jpeg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Narikala Fortress</td></tr>
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<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Q-gmKj1FqB4/WrdaNdELiVI/AAAAAAAAuwE/65TB8gWBeiUEFKz-vdJDUV550CN4qrSGACKgBGAs/s1600/tbilisi11-01.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="666" data-original-width="1000" height="426" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Q-gmKj1FqB4/WrdaNdELiVI/AAAAAAAAuwE/65TB8gWBeiUEFKz-vdJDUV550CN4qrSGACKgBGAs/s640/tbilisi11-01.jpeg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-EvxwnEiUfHg/WrdaNXU0L6I/AAAAAAAAuwE/TEyZ5Qcqcc0ugw9xEpFm7mJSYXWssYLCACKgBGAs/s1600/tbilisi15-01.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1000" data-original-width="665" height="640" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-EvxwnEiUfHg/WrdaNXU0L6I/AAAAAAAAuwE/TEyZ5Qcqcc0ugw9xEpFm7mJSYXWssYLCACKgBGAs/s640/tbilisi15-01.jpeg" width="424" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Tbilisi TV Broadcasting Tower</td></tr>
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After exploring Old Town of Tbilisi, Nina, my local cicerone asked whether I'd like to enjoy vantage view of this city on a higher level (like literally) on the Holy mountain. Of course I said YES! Why wouldn't I? She told me from that view point I could get a closer look of Tbilisi TV Broadcasting Tower which I saw earlier from Narikala Fortress. Apparently the tower which is used for communication purposes is also the national symbol of the capital.<br />
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If you don't have a private car like I did, the best way to reach Mtatsminda Park is by taking a funicular ride from the station in Chonkadze street. The Tiflis Funicular railway was opened in 1905 and each funicular can take up to 50 people each ride.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-LbUrzym97w8/WrdaNdckedI/AAAAAAAAuwE/QMAGOEUo1jcT0V73AJrbaJEFgNo5kstLQCKgBGAs/s1600/tbilisi12-01.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="666" data-original-width="1000" height="426" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-LbUrzym97w8/WrdaNdckedI/AAAAAAAAuwE/QMAGOEUo1jcT0V73AJrbaJEFgNo5kstLQCKgBGAs/s640/tbilisi12-01.jpeg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Mtatsminda Park </td></tr>
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-IVZAuOnVAxI/WrdaNbSTNTI/AAAAAAAAuwE/VXfW6wq3tvkYvHnXYSu83QGO8OVkdn8SwCKgBGAs/s1600/tbilisi14-01.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="666" data-original-width="1000" height="426" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-IVZAuOnVAxI/WrdaNbSTNTI/AAAAAAAAuwE/VXfW6wq3tvkYvHnXYSu83QGO8OVkdn8SwCKgBGAs/s640/tbilisi14-01.jpeg" width="640" /></a></div>
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At 770 metres altitude, Mtatsminda Park or often called Bombora Park by locals is the highest place in Tbilisi. From the city centre it takes about 15 minutes by car or only 6 minutes by funicular. Nina told me that it's a popular area to hang out for the locals specially during summer when the heat is too much to handle in the city. Besides an amusement park and TV Tower, there's also a fancy restaurant and a Wedding Palace! The most loved ride in Matatsminda Park is the Ferris Wheel where you can enjoy the scenery over Tbilisi in a slow pace.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-RGidqbvsWCc/WrdaNelyFeI/AAAAAAAAuwE/yfMiOHhxU74kye44_YPDEzdwyeinEZBhgCKgBGAs/s1600/tbilisi16-01.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="666" data-original-width="1000" height="426" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-RGidqbvsWCc/WrdaNelyFeI/AAAAAAAAuwE/yfMiOHhxU74kye44_YPDEzdwyeinEZBhgCKgBGAs/s640/tbilisi16-01.jpeg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">aerial view of Tbilisi</td></tr>
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I can't make up my mind if I had to choose which one has a better view between Narikala Fortress and Mtatsminda Park. Both of them offer different experiences which are equally stunning. So happy I managed to explore both of them during my brief visit to Tbilisi. I'd suggest you to check them out too when you're in town and fingers crossed you'll get as great weather as I had. I heard sometimes it's a bit unpredictable though. Nina jokingly said that I brought the sunshine to the city. It was non stop raining and very cold the week before I arrived and on the day I was leaving the city. I guess I was lucky indeed!<br />
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Do you have any plan to visit Tbilisi or Georgia soon? Feel free to shoot some question and I'd be more than happy to share some suggestions for you 😘<br />
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<blockquote class="instagram-media" data-instgrm-permalink="https://www.instagram.com/p/Big53HvHsw9/" data-instgrm-version="8" style="background: #fff; border-radius: 3px; border: 0; box-shadow: 0 0 1px 0 rgba(0 , 0 , 0 , 0.5) , 0 1px 10px 0 rgba(0 , 0 , 0 , 0.15); margin: 1px; max-width: 658px; padding: 0; width: 99.375%;">
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<script async="" defer="" src="//www.instagram.com/embed.js"></script>Debbzie Leksonohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11633293406090733531noreply@blogger.com30tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1006989774341308826.post-19588781589798072902018-03-03T10:00:00.000+08:002018-03-03T10:00:00.194+08:00Azerbaijan: Old City Of BakuBaku, October 2017<br />
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<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-7QgdbwTxyvQ/WorcULMFRcI/AAAAAAAAtg8/XFbUO5U9qOsMZasCOnP698yKOEDd2zQZwCKgBGAs/s1600/Baku2-01.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="666" data-original-width="1000" height="426" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-7QgdbwTxyvQ/WorcULMFRcI/AAAAAAAAtg8/XFbUO5U9qOsMZasCOnP698yKOEDd2zQZwCKgBGAs/s640/Baku2-01.jpeg" width="640" /></a></div>
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If you've been following my stories in this blog, you might have noticed that I adore old architecture and ruins. Ancient stuff triggers my curiosity thus I always make sure to explore Old Towns when I travel. I just love getting lost while wandering through those small alleys and the gorgeous maze of cobblestone streets. I would let my imagination go wild thinking about events it has been witnessing through the centuries. Each corners has a story waiting to be revealed.<br />
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This post is mostly a photo essay and at the very end of this post I'll let you know what's my thoughts about Baku Old Town...<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-QJ0yHaqNWFg/WorcUET-bVI/AAAAAAAAtg8/VMfW85DDGrwrcvhY7g7sWlZ9hBB3gN5DQCKgBGAs/s1600/Baku1-01.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="667" data-original-width="1000" height="426" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-QJ0yHaqNWFg/WorcUET-bVI/AAAAAAAAtg8/VMfW85DDGrwrcvhY7g7sWlZ9hBB3gN5DQCKgBGAs/s640/Baku1-01.jpeg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">entering the gate</td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-y0I7BPuUHkA/WorcUC6ZvWI/AAAAAAAAtg8/xL-RhSzwh9wm7fntHPjzRfMBkXyeztJswCKgBGAs/s1600/Collage_Fotor-01.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="426" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-y0I7BPuUHkA/WorcUC6ZvWI/AAAAAAAAtg8/xL-RhSzwh9wm7fntHPjzRfMBkXyeztJswCKgBGAs/s640/Collage_Fotor-01.jpeg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">sandy-coloured buildings</td></tr>
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-E9BpKc8zKLo/WorcUEGryaI/AAAAAAAAtg8/XG7JlNabFHgVluK6qK9262Q1UR-44GRpwCKgBGAs/s1600/Baku5-01.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="666" data-original-width="1000" height="426" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-E9BpKc8zKLo/WorcUEGryaI/AAAAAAAAtg8/XG7JlNabFHgVluK6qK9262Q1UR-44GRpwCKgBGAs/s640/Baku5-01.jpeg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-B8ziznundXY/WorcUCnOtoI/AAAAAAAAtg8/sVrItbUGmE0CUhHV-rS2MARzXWqjlxa8wCKgBGAs/s1600/Baku4-01.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="666" data-original-width="1000" height="426" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-B8ziznundXY/WorcUCnOtoI/AAAAAAAAtg8/sVrItbUGmE0CUhHV-rS2MARzXWqjlxa8wCKgBGAs/s640/Baku4-01.jpeg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-glrYC6K5kUE/WorcUKRmGNI/AAAAAAAAtg8/50cgdBIoSR0jMjBT1iLrRmjXB4ky_qBAACKgBGAs/s1600/Baku-01.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1333" data-original-width="1001" height="640" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-glrYC6K5kUE/WorcUKRmGNI/AAAAAAAAtg8/50cgdBIoSR0jMjBT1iLrRmjXB4ky_qBAACKgBGAs/s640/Baku-01.jpeg" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Aliagha Vahid</td></tr>
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I walked towards a garden just behind the metro station when I saw this bronze statue. At a first glance there was nothing special about this statue. I thought he looked a lot like one of my uncles. But as I got closer, I was stunned by the detailed sculpture. His hair is actually some inscription which depicts life scenes from sad to happy, also how Azerbaijan was influenced by Iran, Russia and Turkey. To be honest, I've never heard about him before but apparently Aliagha Vahid was born in Baku and once was a well known poet in Azerbaijan. He also helped to translate Persian literary works into Azerbaijan language. He passed away in 1965 at the age of 70. To honour his dedication, in 1990 Rahib Hasanov, Natig Aliyev and Sanan Salamzadeh sculpted the 10-foot-tall bronze. <br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-l8cFGjAjYM4/WorcUIWtYPI/AAAAAAAAtg8/f7q2SnudZlUQ6mw94wCZdJ5RzlhJg0M1QCKgBGAs/s1600/Baku8-01.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="666" data-original-width="1000" height="426" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-l8cFGjAjYM4/WorcUIWtYPI/AAAAAAAAtg8/f7q2SnudZlUQ6mw94wCZdJ5RzlhJg0M1QCKgBGAs/s640/Baku8-01.jpeg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">European buildings are influenced by the Russians</td></tr>
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<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-qt1JHOGysHU/WorcUJE0jxI/AAAAAAAAtg8/3c0GKNdqkRMPw6RX-C6w_lSsfUXlQWwiACKgBGAs/s1600/Baku9-01.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="666" data-original-width="1000" height="426" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-qt1JHOGysHU/WorcUJE0jxI/AAAAAAAAtg8/3c0GKNdqkRMPw6RX-C6w_lSsfUXlQWwiACKgBGAs/s640/Baku9-01.jpeg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-mtzc_IAZPwI/WorcUByy8II/AAAAAAAAtg8/BkWLIkQ41NEK2OYUDmI3SMnytJFgHQ1vACKgBGAs/s1600/Baku10-01.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="666" data-original-width="1000" height="426" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-mtzc_IAZPwI/WorcUByy8II/AAAAAAAAtg8/BkWLIkQ41NEK2OYUDmI3SMnytJFgHQ1vACKgBGAs/s640/Baku10-01.jpeg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">the wall</td></tr>
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<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Y3r7yfA9EX8/WorcUFgwq3I/AAAAAAAAtg8/xBYlC5Zi5YAMcLG0n_LCVyd0lWOmxQWMACKgBGAs/s1600/Baku11-01.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="666" data-original-width="1000" height="426" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Y3r7yfA9EX8/WorcUFgwq3I/AAAAAAAAtg8/xBYlC5Zi5YAMcLG0n_LCVyd0lWOmxQWMACKgBGAs/s640/Baku11-01.jpeg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-TaKBkd2yBKU/WorcUFWYkQI/AAAAAAAAtg8/dS36Y7BKWEMjPaG26TLR2Owg8NCDprjhwCKgBGAs/s1600/Baku17-01.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1500" data-original-width="1000" height="640" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-TaKBkd2yBKU/WorcUFWYkQI/AAAAAAAAtg8/dS36Y7BKWEMjPaG26TLR2Owg8NCDprjhwCKgBGAs/s640/Baku17-01.jpeg" width="426" /></a></div>
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Baku Old City or Icheri Sheher is the most ancient part of Baku. Along with the Palace of Shirvanshahs and Maiden Tower, it became the first location in Azerbaijan to be classified as a World Heritage Site by UNESCO. Not only some historic spot, there's also hotels, restaurants, souvenir shops and museum inside Baku Old City. Now more than 4000 native people still live in this Inner City. Surprisingly it was quite empty when I was there.<br />
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<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-AmQfSUJ2pnQ/WorcUN0_A-I/AAAAAAAAtg8/q9gRhJaNFHgwMlTy3ZfdMSKh4XtaKUcpwCKgBGAs/s1600/Baku21-01.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="666" data-original-width="1000" height="426" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-AmQfSUJ2pnQ/WorcUN0_A-I/AAAAAAAAtg8/q9gRhJaNFHgwMlTy3ZfdMSKh4XtaKUcpwCKgBGAs/s640/Baku21-01.jpeg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-OPcXAb5W6lE/WorcUFsyfsI/AAAAAAAAtg8/YtCoBTTTlnc5FLpfenj85IEDU9IHf5qxwCKgBGAs/s1600/Baku12-01.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="666" data-original-width="1000" height="426" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-OPcXAb5W6lE/WorcUFsyfsI/AAAAAAAAtg8/YtCoBTTTlnc5FLpfenj85IEDU9IHf5qxwCKgBGAs/s640/Baku12-01.jpeg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">contrast of the old and modern city</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-afuM5MYwhEA/WorcUHG4xHI/AAAAAAAAtg8/HtLow_vUPOwNzE3LbdEo11LPc5yGIxxHACKgBGAs/s1600/Baku14-01.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="667" data-original-width="1000" height="426" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-afuM5MYwhEA/WorcUHG4xHI/AAAAAAAAtg8/HtLow_vUPOwNzE3LbdEo11LPc5yGIxxHACKgBGAs/s640/Baku14-01.jpeg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Bakuvi Mausoleum </td></tr>
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Palace of the Shirvanshahs shouldn't be missed when you are in Old Town of Baku.<span style="font-family: inherit;"> <span style="background-color: white; color: #222222;">The complex contains the main building of the palace, Divanhane, the </span><a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Burial_vault_(tomb)" style="background: none rgb(255, 255, 255); color: #0b0080; text-decoration-line: none;" title="Burial vault (tomb)">burial-vaults</a><span style="background-color: white; color: #222222;">, the shah's mosque with a minaret, Seyid Yahya Bakuvi's mausoleum, a portal in the east, Murad's gate, a reservoir and the remnants of a bath house. Built in 15th century, the palace is now serves as a museum where a series of historic treasure are being kept. The Palace is located hilltop so I could get a nice view of the modern city at the background, including the famous trio Flame Towers. </span></span><br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Caravanserai Restaurant</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">cellar underneath </td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">a laid back city indeed</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">the Royal Mosque</td></tr>
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Baku is undoubtedly a pretty city, however I personally think that the Old City of Baku is somehow lacks of character and soul. Partly this could be the impact from earthquake but also from illegal demolition and uncontrolled development. Sadly, some part of it has lost its authenticity.<br />
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I was expecting a more exotic setting like hustle bustle of local doing their daily activities which I experienced in Morocco and in Mostar, Bosnia & Herzegovina. Or something like coming out from the movie of Aladdin. Though I know that Aladdin doesn't come from Azerbaijan. Some source even confirmed that Aladdin was actually from China? Dang! It really ruins my childhood imagination! Anyway it could be me missing some areas and didn't explore it thoroughly. I definitely should have stayed in one of the hotels inside the Old City. Perhaps I would be able to absorb the atmosphere better.<br />
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All in all Baku is still a destination worth to visit. Built on a site inhabited since the Palaeolithic, the Walled City of Baku has been a witness of some era from <span style="background-color: white;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Zoroastrian, Sasanian, Arabic, Persian, Shirvani, Ottoman, and Russian. It's like a melting pot which is certainly rich in custom and culture. And have I mention that the people are genuinely friendly? While not all destinations would meet our expectation, there's always something unique to immerse. Would I give Baku another shot? Absolutely! There's still many places I want to see and many things to experience there.</span></span><br />
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Have you been to Baku before? Or is Baku on your bucket list?<br />
<br />Debbzie Leksonohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11633293406090733531noreply@blogger.com22tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1006989774341308826.post-90238877337825266272018-02-10T09:00:00.000+08:002018-02-10T09:00:11.256+08:00Japan: Shirakawa-go Under A Blanket Of Snow Japan, December 2017<br />
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I've always been fascinated by Shirakawa-go since the day I laid my eyes on a picture of a traditional Japanese village covered in snow. Samurai village! That's what I thought when I saw it on Instagram feed a couple years back. I started nagging to my old friend, Google to dig as much information possible about this village. Where it is and how to get there, kind of stuff. But it was not until my 5th visit to Japan that I finally made it here.<br />
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Roughly it's about 320 km or more less 5 hours bus ride (including 2 toilet breaks) from Osaka to Shirakawa-go. First thing first, a late lunch at Soba Wakimoto located near the entrance of the village on the west side. The restaurant is also a traditional house so I got to experience the rustic ambiance. After removing my shoes before stepping onto the tatami platform, I was then led into a zashiki area. It's a traditional Japanese restaurant seating arrangement featuring a low table set on tatami flooring. We have similar arrangement here in Indonesia, called lesehan. Soba Wakimoto is actually a soba shop but also serves Hida beef bowl and other traditional dishes.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">but first....Hida Beef!</td></tr>
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Hida-gyu or Hida beef is the name given to beef from a black haired Japanese cattle breed that has been raised in Gifu Prefecture. To be honest, these past years I rarely eat beef and lamb because most of the time I get headache after eating red meat. I did ask my doctor about this and turned out it's a common thing. But while in Gifu area, I feel the urge to at least taste this famous meat which is ranked one of the highest quality in Japan.<br />
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Beside a beef rice bowl, we also ordered a portion of Hida beef steak. The meat is brown on the outside, while still remaining its redness in the centre. As expected the cube-cut meat was tender and cooked into medium perfection, with some juice oozing out when I bite it. Sauce tasted light too so it didn't overpower the meat. Just a hint of salt with umami aftertaste. Delectable indeed! However to me it was slightly gamy and after a few chunks of meat, I needed to clean my palate with some pickle and put down my chopsticks. In my opinion comparing to Kobe beef, Hida beef is fattier hence it left a buttery taste on my palate.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">gassho-zukuri</td></tr>
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Shirakawa-go was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1995, famous for its historical farmhouses called gassho-zukuri. The thatched roof looks like a gesture of hands pressed together, that resembles a prayer or a sign of greeting, gratitude or apology. Apart from Ogimachi, the largest village that I visited, there are also two other villages in Gokayama region named Suganuma and Ainokura. They have existed since 11th Century and most of the houses are more than 250 years old.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">crossing the bridge</td></tr>
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From the parking lot, we needed to cross the suspension bridge to reach Ogimachi village. My sister and I decided to visit Shiroyama viewpoint before exploring the village. Because during winter the last shuttle bus to Shiroyama viewpoint leave at 15:40. You can actually walk up for 15-20 minutes to the viewpoint via the walking trail. Unfortunately the snow was pretty thick and I didn't wear proper winter shoes, so we settled with the bus instead. The shuttle ride costs ¥200 per person, takes only less than 10 minutes each way. I got a bit lost when trying to locate the bus stop. Everything hidden under the thick snow, including the bus stop sign! Turned out it's located near the Wada-ke house, one of the wealthiest and village leaders of Ogimachi. It's the largest gassho-zukuri and now open to public as a museum.<br />
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*Scroll down to watch the video 😁<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">view from Shiroyama observatory deck</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">konichiwa!</td></tr>
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Shiroyama viewpoint offers stunning view of the farmhouses in Ogimachi village, with mountains as a backdrop. From up here, I got the 360 degree view of the fairy tale like village that I've seen a lot on internet and on most postcard in souvenir shops. The snow was really thick that the wooden fence got buried under. I was lucky there were only a few people around so I didn't have to queue to get a good spot for photo taking. There was a professional photographer and I was amused when he kept saying Indonesian words to me, "Mari...mari! Tidak bayar" (come take picture, free of charge). I'm pretty sure he meets a bunch of Indonesian visitors everyday. I handed him my camera before my sister and I gave him our best fierce pose. He took some shots using my camera and also his camera that turned out to be muuuuuch better. Thought we looked pretty amazing so I ask him to print it on the spot and paid ¥1500 for the picture. We are so typical tourist, right? 😂<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">who lets the dog out!</td></tr>
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Back to the village, I ventured to smaller path behind the main street. There was nobody around so I could explore the area freely while admiring the historic houses with its stunning environment. I was amazed by the fact that the wooden houses were built without a single nail or brackets. Complex joinery, ropes and strips of hazel wood hold the beams together. The roofs were steeply angled to prevent the snow from piling up. I was told that during summer the straws keeps the houses cool.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">I wish this is what I see from my balcony on daily basis </td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">the main street</td></tr>
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Besides several souvenir shops and eateries along the main street, there are also some farmhouses turned museums in Ogimachi village. Sadly most of them were already closed when I get back to the village. Actually I really wanted to stay overnight to experience the unique traditional Japanese farmhouse stay. But it's kinda tricky to find a minshuku or family run Japanese B&B that fit for my big family so this time I had to settle with a day trip only.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-xaLZvCPgAi8/WlitGMfkJcI/AAAAAAAAr4E/ByBqTGLk8BUgfclTnUC3RBjQQrdSOE1fQCKgBGAs/s1600/DSCF6960-01.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="426" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-xaLZvCPgAi8/WlitGMfkJcI/AAAAAAAAr4E/ByBqTGLk8BUgfclTnUC3RBjQQrdSOE1fQCKgBGAs/s640/DSCF6960-01.jpeg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">souvenir shop</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-_6yVsoszm_8/WlitGC0o7nI/AAAAAAAAr4E/p84Z4gMyLFE36SRNMhDcrrTPJ7Xtzj4ggCKgBGAs/s1600/DSCF6863-01.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="426" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-_6yVsoszm_8/WlitGC0o7nI/AAAAAAAAr4E/p84Z4gMyLFE36SRNMhDcrrTPJ7Xtzj4ggCKgBGAs/s640/DSCF6863-01.jpeg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">suspension bridge over the Shokawa river</td></tr>
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As I mentioned previously, here's a short video I took on the way from Shiroyama Observatory Deck back to Ogimachi village. I was grinning from ear to ear when passing through this narrow winding road surrounded by thick snow. This polar bear was super happy to be back to her habitat. I sang 'Let It Go' from the Frozen movie quietly. This was my expression along the way ⇾ 😍<br />
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Shirakawa-go is easily accessible from Takayama and Kanazawa via bus. I was travelling by a private bus from Osaka since it was easier for my family of 20 pax and stayed overnight in Takayama. That afternoon I certainly left Shirakawa-go with a heavy heart. But I knew it wouldn't be my last visit. I plan to come back and will stay longer maybe in spring or autumn season. I do think Shirakawa-go can be enjoyed all year long and look equally beautiful. Mata aimashou, Shirakawa-go!<br />
<b>またあいましぉう💖</b><br />
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<br />Debbzie Leksonohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11633293406090733531noreply@blogger.com19tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1006989774341308826.post-50047488123196829372018-01-31T16:00:00.000+08:002018-07-01T18:39:58.172+08:00Bali: Prasana By Arjani Resorts<br />
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<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/--7Cnysh2h5g/Wmi38LUKjyI/AAAAAAAAsqg/DvIgWlrG1rIuXzI6wcyjNecW-x03H-z5QCKgBGAs/s1600/DSCF7433-01.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="426" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/--7Cnysh2h5g/Wmi38LUKjyI/AAAAAAAAsqg/DvIgWlrG1rIuXzI6wcyjNecW-x03H-z5QCKgBGAs/s640/DSCF7433-01.jpeg" width="640" /></a></div>
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Suddenly Bali. I was unpacking my luggage post-Christmas holiday in Japan when Mumun from <a href="https://iwashere.id/" target="_blank">iwashere.id</a> called me, "Hey, Debz! Would you like to join a retreat in Bali next week?". Of course I said yes because the best thing to cure post holiday blues is by going to another holiday, right? I was invited along with Trinity, Vabyo, Adit and Ramon; and Prasana by Arjani Resorts would be our home for the 3 days #IWHcreator retreat.<br />
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<b>The Villas</b><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjmmSVH7-uE6hFFVEPVImm7Qw9LWNYkbJzVIH3PWN_gWqvHwxq-ZhDSnteqA-xw9fUlXF1AXV1U1xRypot1Xi2jkqVZotkCW-pWvY7JPvaowDV67NbP2qiTWYJPzzxifU4drY2albb-r4FV/s1600/DSCF7432-01.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1066" data-original-width="1600" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjmmSVH7-uE6hFFVEPVImm7Qw9LWNYkbJzVIH3PWN_gWqvHwxq-ZhDSnteqA-xw9fUlXF1AXV1U1xRypot1Xi2jkqVZotkCW-pWvY7JPvaowDV67NbP2qiTWYJPzzxifU4drY2albb-r4FV/s640/DSCF7432-01.jpeg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">lobby</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-iiluldxRKRE/Wmi3_RRoBuI/AAAAAAAAsqk/rDXfyLfWQx4Kz0H0vUM-0MNVi63A24dMwCKgBGAs/s1600/DSCF7336-01.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="426" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-iiluldxRKRE/Wmi3_RRoBuI/AAAAAAAAsqk/rDXfyLfWQx4Kz0H0vUM-0MNVi63A24dMwCKgBGAs/s640/DSCF7336-01.jpeg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">super comfy bed</td></tr>
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I stayed in a one bedroom villa with swimming pool, lounge area, kitchenette and outdoor day bed. This area is private with a total space around 145 sqm. It's pretty huge considering I was staying there alone. I could do my silly dance and jumping around the villa without annoying other people *big grin*.<br />
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I'm a light sleeper. Occasionally it's hard for me to get a quality night sleep because even the slightest sound of an ant walking would wake me up. Thanks to the top quality double mattress king bed and tranquil environment, I slept soundly I might even snored and recharged well. My room looked this neat all the time because Prasana has twice-a-day housekeeping service for all the villas. I was so spoilt I can never tidy up my own bed again at home, lol.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-DYeg4JvoPoQ/Wmi3_YxpD0I/AAAAAAAAsqk/MdK52qoEKL8ShHNRsetqa0B2LEzxMRx_gCKgBGAs/s1600/DSCF7351-01.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="426" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-DYeg4JvoPoQ/Wmi3_YxpD0I/AAAAAAAAsqk/MdK52qoEKL8ShHNRsetqa0B2LEzxMRx_gCKgBGAs/s640/DSCF7351-01.jpeg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">one bedroom villa with private pool</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-qLGkjTjAHiQ/Wmi3_TPmusI/AAAAAAAAsqk/U7W1KBqRRjEEmH66a-DsjIjtgT2q3la4wCKgBGAs/s1600/DSCF7361-01.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1067" height="640" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-qLGkjTjAHiQ/Wmi3_TPmusI/AAAAAAAAsqk/U7W1KBqRRjEEmH66a-DsjIjtgT2q3la4wCKgBGAs/s640/DSCF7361-01.jpeg" width="426" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">spacious bathroom</td></tr>
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Part of the villa that I love the most is the spacious bathroom. It's so big that I can dance the Tango inside bathroom area. There's rain shower, toilet, wardrobe, 2 wash basin with huge mirror (no more fighting with roommate again!), a set of desk and office chair. Oh! From the shower room you can access to the outdoor bathtub area which is also connected to the bedroom. Fancy for a sexy bubble bath with candles, rose petals and champagne? *wink*<br />
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Psst! This villa is so private that you can even sneak a skinny dipping action under the starry night. As long as there's no CCTV catch you in the act, that is. 😁<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">amenities</td></tr>
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Unless your skin is super sensitive like mine that need some particular skincare products, I don't think you would need to bring your basic amenities like shampoo, conditioner, body wash and etc. Prasana provides most essential stuff including salt bath, sunblock and after sun cooling gel. How thoughtful!<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-eahU44ccVBw/Wmi3_W87J-I/AAAAAAAAsqk/T53vazJtt0sagwkiePff3abB_Q7g1H5EQCKgBGAs/s1600/IMG_3154.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="426" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-eahU44ccVBw/Wmi3_W87J-I/AAAAAAAAsqk/T53vazJtt0sagwkiePff3abB_Q7g1H5EQCKgBGAs/s640/IMG_3154.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">outdoor bathtub </td></tr>
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My most favourite service is definitely the all day breakfast. I usually skip breakfast during hotel stays because mostly serve breakfast only until 10 am. For me, sometimes holiday means all day snuggle mood thus a hotel which has an all day breakfast service is truly a God send. In-house guest in Prasana can choose to have their breakfast in their villa or restaurant. Breakfast in bed in late afternoon? Yes, please!<br />
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<b>Fun Activities</b><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-xvWKUrkSpL8/Wmi4H3V54jI/AAAAAAAAsqs/XM4ogFNWvRgSkZPgmM8iKhCKAL3aSiJ6gCKgBGAs/s1600/DSCF7480-01.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="426" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-xvWKUrkSpL8/Wmi4H3V54jI/AAAAAAAAsqs/XM4ogFNWvRgSkZPgmM8iKhCKAL3aSiJ6gCKgBGAs/s640/DSCF7480-01.jpeg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">beach hopping</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjecvClyQbg7K0jZQzFmRFW7nvO7QWoXv1LVRiRWIE_tVDFb_AjDQZTYPAQh4upCOy1-JNNcYByW4ZoiltOrFBmvYLqPyuUniqz01a6gD6Tt0SPOlJeZ2b9NtOHbd1UqHmIeef4tGaMzf9_/s1600/DSCF7505-01.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjecvClyQbg7K0jZQzFmRFW7nvO7QWoXv1LVRiRWIE_tVDFb_AjDQZTYPAQh4upCOy1-JNNcYByW4ZoiltOrFBmvYLqPyuUniqz01a6gD6Tt0SPOlJeZ2b9NtOHbd1UqHmIeef4tGaMzf9_/s640/DSCF7505-01.jpeg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">secluded beach </td></tr>
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It was drizzling in the morning so I needed a stronger will to wake up and leave my super comfy bed. But beach hopping was on our agenda, so I jumped out my bed with excitement, had a quick shower and off to the beach. We were thrilled to see an empty secluded and clean beach. Some of us jumped into the water straight away.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-v1eh7hN2k40/Wmi4H6QFkKI/AAAAAAAAsqs/f2qBPJotAnUXb-XVsq5f8ZvV8DOtRN7vgCKgBGAs/s1600/DSCF7538-01.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="426" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-v1eh7hN2k40/Wmi4H6QFkKI/AAAAAAAAsqs/f2qBPJotAnUXb-XVsq5f8ZvV8DOtRN7vgCKgBGAs/s640/DSCF7538-01.jpeg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Prasana team preparing our breakfast</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-WfRjZtGIJ9U/Wmi4H-aMNEI/AAAAAAAAsqs/rj2TnM6efrwqjEmFDoBmr3GOmEp_zhwfACKgBGAs/s1600/DSCF7550-01.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="426" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-WfRjZtGIJ9U/Wmi4H-aMNEI/AAAAAAAAsqs/rj2TnM6efrwqjEmFDoBmr3GOmEp_zhwfACKgBGAs/s640/DSCF7550-01.jpeg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">picnic breakfast by the beach</td></tr>
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<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-clsxWjyqcTk/Wm7ea-xzZYI/AAAAAAAAsv4/SgSoNuLJr4YrceJWAA9emIO5sW3pOmYsACKgBGAs/s1600/DSCF7557-01.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="426" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-clsxWjyqcTk/Wm7ea-xzZYI/AAAAAAAAsv4/SgSoNuLJr4YrceJWAA9emIO5sW3pOmYsACKgBGAs/s640/DSCF7557-01.jpeg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">granola with fruits and yogurt</td></tr>
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We then headed to Balangan beach where Prasana team were already preparing a picnic breakfast for us. They served what it seems like never ending food. From assorted fresh fruit juice, fruit platter, granola yogurt bowl, pastries basket (croissant, pain au chocolate and danish), a plate of poached egg with salad and salmon, stacks of sandwiches and whole fresh coconuts. The food were aesthetically attractive, I really think it's the most beautiful picnic breakfast I've ever had! Well it's not everyday I have a picnic with all those shiny cutleries and fancy plates. After a hearty breakfast to kick start the day, I rushed back to the villa and ready for my spa session. Ohhh bliss!<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Brew Me Tea</td></tr>
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In the afternoon we visited Brew Me tea gallery in Blahbatu area. Learning some new things about tea production from A to Z in fun a way. The tea tasting session taught me how to tell different tastes among white tea, green tea, oolong tea and black tea. Brew Me tea premium quality tea are carefully hand picked from their own plantation and processed in their factory in Tabanan area.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Chef Toni and Chef Endang doing their magic </td></tr>
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Cooking class was so much fun too! Chef Toni showed us how to cook an easy yet healthy breakfast. He started off with smearing some butter on a charcoal bread and toast it on a non-stick pan. While chef Endang was poaching some eggs. They then prepared sabayon sauce by whisked some egg yolk with sugar and lemon juice over <i>bain marie</i> to get a thick consistency before adding a spoonful of beetroot puree. Last but not least, chef Toni started to plate all the items and voila! Charcoal toast, salmon slices, poached egg topped with tobiko or flying fish roe served with salad with honey lemon dressing and beetroot sabayon sauce.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-EkVkMGByvYs/WmywomKNPbI/AAAAAAAAsug/cL2-_jo_qLsPJwK-5ysLXhIEZGyPjmLCQCKgBGAs/s1600/DSCF7642-01.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="426" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-EkVkMGByvYs/WmywomKNPbI/AAAAAAAAsug/cL2-_jo_qLsPJwK-5ysLXhIEZGyPjmLCQCKgBGAs/s640/DSCF7642-01.jpeg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">easy healthy meal</td></tr>
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<b>Glorious Food</b><br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Medallion Chicken Salad</td></tr>
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During the welcome dinner, we were accompanied by Ibu Mia, the General Manager and Bapak Andika, Owning Company Representative of Prasana. The first dish they served was Medallion Chicken Salad. Beautiful plate presentation with colourful Asian slaw as a garnish. Manadonese sambal rica was a perfect match for the well marinated and tender chicken. I also love the adding of lemon confit as it refreshed my palate.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-IAL16pdXrbg/Wmi4PxiOywI/AAAAAAAAsqw/cBfvfTTYrDUxIYoWNvQIP3KdxXn2WpGQgCKgBGAs/s1600/DSCF7442-01.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="426" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-IAL16pdXrbg/Wmi4PxiOywI/AAAAAAAAsqw/cBfvfTTYrDUxIYoWNvQIP3KdxXn2WpGQgCKgBGAs/s640/DSCF7442-01.jpeg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Seafood Consome</td></tr>
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Next came Seafood Consome served in a wide rim soup bowl. I studied European Culinary Arts before and one thing I remember is aside from taste, we eat food visually. And this bowl of seafood dumpling with vegetables was certainly presented to please the eyes. While bouillon or the rich clear seafood stock merged beautifully with coconut milk. A flavourful dish indeed.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-nobIlDu3Ae0/Wmi4P5z1bHI/AAAAAAAAsqw/9EhBoe6Ph9w64sA2donCBZ0fyS_WmsA-ACKgBGAs/s1600/DSCF7462-01.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1066" data-original-width="1600" height="426" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-nobIlDu3Ae0/Wmi4P5z1bHI/AAAAAAAAsqw/9EhBoe6Ph9w64sA2donCBZ0fyS_WmsA-ACKgBGAs/s640/DSCF7462-01.jpeg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Crusted Filled Fish</td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: inherit;">Main course consisted of 5 items: Glazed Miso Chicken, Beef Rendang, Veggie Stew on Mashed Potato, Coconut Rice and for me the star was this Crusted Fillet Fish. I'm not too sure if it was dory fish but the white flesh was firm and has this flaky texture. The skin was covered in flavourful spice tempe crumbs which added the extra oomph. Woku sauce and pineapple tomato salsa were on point too, with just the right amount of rich aroma, tanginess and spicy taste without overpowering the fish.</span><br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Kolak</td></tr>
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This one is the interesting version of Indonesian sweet dessert named Kolak. It contained of Pandan panna cotta, caramelised banana, sago milk, palm sugar crumb and homemade vanilla ice cream drenched in rich coconut milk. I love how each of the elements complement each other and it's not too sweet like the Kolak I usually eat back home.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Choco Mousse Pie</td></tr>
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I was already stuffed after 2 starters, 5 items of main course and the Kolak but when they serve this Choco Mousse Pie, I just couldn't refuse it. Just one bite, I kept saying that to myself. But as soon as the banana mousse and dark chocolate glaze melting in my mouth, I knew I would have a hard time to put my spoon down. The combination of smooth filling with crunchiness from the almond crust was so addictive. It's simply sinful yet unrefusable. Suddenly everyone on the table were quiet, only a delightful 'mmmm' could be heard from their mouth. The face said it all....they were having their own version of mind-blowing moment.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Blue Sapphire</td></tr>
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Though I'm not really into alcoholic beverages, I was curious about this particular cocktail named Blue Sapphire. The 'wow' moment was when the waitress pouring the extract of Bunga Telang Ungu or Butterfly Pea flower into the vodka. The white and purple liquids gradually blending into a pretty layered drink, garnish with a Butterfly Pea flower on the glass rim. I can't really elaborate the taste since I only took a tiny sip of it. There's no distinct taste from the vodka but I tasted a hint of lemongrass which I think from the flower extract.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">I couldn't ask for a better companions </td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">Thank you IWasHere for inviting me to join the creator retreat together with a bunch of the awesomest folks. Thanks so much to all Prasana by Arjani Resorts' team for the warmest and sincere hospitality.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: inherit;">I was invited to specifically review the cuisine, so I'd like to extend my appreciation to Prasana F&B team. I'm not a picky eater, I can eat almost everything. However my taste buds do judge food. While most of the time I enjoy of the food I eat, only a few could really make my taste buds dancing in joy. However I can safely say that the food I've tasted during my 3 days staying in Prasana villa were exceeding my taste buds' expectation. Kudos to Chef Toni and his squad! I would in a heartbeat travelling all the way back to Prasana just to enjoy the food in their beautiful restaurant. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></span>
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">* </span><span style="background-color: white; font-family: inherit;">I was invited as a guest. But opinions, happy tummy and the dancing taste buds are all mine.</span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="background-color: white;"><br /></span></span>
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="background-color: white;">** IWasHere: Travel Beyond Destinations curates inspiring travel stories from fellow travellers. The app can be installed for free from Play Store 💜</span></span><br />
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<b><br /></b>
<b>Prasana by Arjani Resorts</b><br />
<a href="http://arjaniresorts.com/prasana/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">arjaniresorts.com/prasana/</a><br />
Jl. Harjani no 1, Ungasan - Bali - Indonesia<br />
+62 361 4725488<br />
<br />
<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="300" src="https://www.google.com/maps/embed?pb=!1m18!1m12!1m3!1d15769.930559661309!2d115.13362246765979!3d-8.834575693655895!2m3!1f0!2f0!3f0!3m2!1i1024!2i768!4f13.1!3m3!1m2!1s0x2dd25b208e23461d%3A0x7abf5c9792539b46!2sPrasana+by+Arjani+Resorts!5e0!3m2!1sen!2sid!4v1516814634417" style="border: 0;" width="400"></iframe>
Debbzie Leksonohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11633293406090733531noreply@blogger.com22tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1006989774341308826.post-16242274668290041142017-12-31T01:35:00.000+08:002017-12-31T01:35:13.136+08:002017 In A Nutshell<span style="background-color: white; font-family: inherit;">I can't believe it's already the end of the year again! </span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="background-color: white;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="background-color: white;">2017 is definitely a year of grief for me. Within less than a year,</span><span style="background-color: white;"> </span><span style="background-color: white;">I've lost 5 friends who were young, talented and awesome. Gone too soon, indeed. Their sudden death shook me and also gave me a slap right on my face. I keep questioning myself whether I've been living my life whole heartedly? Or have I been procrastinating too much and wasting my valuable time? Nevertheless it made me realised that life is indeed a mystery and full of surprises, both in good and sad ways. I keep reminding myself to spend as much time possible with my loved ones. You know, in this modern world....people tend to prioritise their online life and taking granted their family and friends around them. Seems like it's more important to comment or gain likes on Instagram or Facebook than having a real conversation with people who really matters. Sometimes we forget that once they are gone...they are gone forever and tears won't bring them back for us to replace the missing precious moments. </span></span></span><br />
<span style="background-color: white;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">What do you say about getting a little break from wifi connection and having the real connection with people as a new year resolution? 😉</span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="background-color: white;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></span>
<span style="background-color: white;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Anyway I did travel to quite a bit of places in 2017, some new places and some revisits. I was invited by Tourism Authority of Thailand to explore Hua Hin and attended the big event where </span></span><span style="background-color: white;">meet Mrs. Juthaporn Rerngronasa, the Tourism Authority of Thailand Deputy Governor and also the gorgeous Miss World Australia, Madeline Cowe. Very honoured to be able to experience it all. </span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="background-color: white;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">But for sure, I had one of the best Christmas holidays ever. </span></span><span style="border: 0px; font-stretch: inherit; line-height: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-size-adjust: auto; vertical-align: baseline;">A rare occasion when the Leksonos full team on a holiday together. Last time was 11 Christmas ago in New Zealand. Super grateful that despite our busy schedule we can get together and enjoyed a beautiful White Christmas in Japan. This is truly something I am grateful for. 😍</span></span><br />
<span style="background-color: white;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></span>
<span style="background-color: white;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Without further ado here's the recap of my journey in photo essay:</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><b>February - Chiang Rai, Chiang Mai, Bangkok</b></span><br />
<a href="http://www.debbzie.com/2017/02/travel-updates-chiang-mai-chiang-rai.html" target="_blank">http://www.debbzie.com/2017/02/travel-updates-chiang-mai-chiang-rai.html</a><br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Ym9QXXIH5Yg/WkX5TQo090I/AAAAAAAArJQ/wxcaYRV9yasmWrxvlcH7Bcxwh30l-6QEwCKgBGAs/s1600/IMG_1486-01.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="426" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Ym9QXXIH5Yg/WkX5TQo090I/AAAAAAAArJQ/wxcaYRV9yasmWrxvlcH7Bcxwh30l-6QEwCKgBGAs/s640/IMG_1486-01.jpeg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">a peaceful morning in the Golden Triangle </td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-uVoj5kNNlaY/WkX5TdgrxkI/AAAAAAAArJQ/jBPBJdCYKp4ZC8T2y2gzGg6Rj5i3B9xrACKgBGAs/s1600/DSCF2901-01.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="426" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-uVoj5kNNlaY/WkX5TdgrxkI/AAAAAAAArJQ/jBPBJdCYKp4ZC8T2y2gzGg6Rj5i3B9xrACKgBGAs/s640/DSCF2901-01.jpeg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">I really crave some Thai food right now</td></tr>
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<b>April - Bangkok & Hua Hin with TAT</b><br />
<a href="http://www.debbzie.com/2017/05/travel-updates-hua-hin-with-tat.html" target="_blank">http://www.debbzie.com/2017/05/travel-updates-hua-hin-with-tat.html</a><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-q7nMk5tizYk/WkX5XLBh09I/AAAAAAAArJU/q2sdddNmNscFJqFDqkJfPUl11aHD6kjkACKgBGAs/s1600/FB_IMG_1493998235830-01.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="640" data-original-width="960" height="426" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-q7nMk5tizYk/WkX5XLBh09I/AAAAAAAArJU/q2sdddNmNscFJqFDqkJfPUl11aHD6kjkACKgBGAs/s640/FB_IMG_1493998235830-01.jpeg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">channelling my inner Picasso at Baan Silapin Artists Village</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-QXQPpMudnUk/WkX5XPmGTNI/AAAAAAAArJU/q6sYc2VruioEl4BG1FvKm6UJQPlSimjbwCKgBGAs/s1600/DSCF3523-01.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="426" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-QXQPpMudnUk/WkX5XPmGTNI/AAAAAAAArJU/q6sYc2VruioEl4BG1FvKm6UJQPlSimjbwCKgBGAs/s640/DSCF3523-01.jpeg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Hua Hin</td></tr>
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<b>May - Bali</b><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgU83QG0ufzzpwQmHBuwlpFCkTx3WHBwKiWchqWP7f6pr3Q71zqIf-1OWmuC6rsQWRFfXc5YUPy-Vr19GzwkGElL8jYeyO2Qu3Y4bCMKv4lob3wbXGGG5HwVjeswjCiRAxu6qUoT7LJybKS/s1600/IMG_1866-01.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgU83QG0ufzzpwQmHBuwlpFCkTx3WHBwKiWchqWP7f6pr3Q71zqIf-1OWmuC6rsQWRFfXc5YUPy-Vr19GzwkGElL8jYeyO2Qu3Y4bCMKv4lob3wbXGGG5HwVjeswjCiRAxu6qUoT7LJybKS/s640/IMG_1866-01.jpeg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">home sweet home</td></tr>
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<b>June - Malang Night Festival</b><br />
<a href="http://www.debbzie.com/2017/06/malang-night-paradise.html" target="_blank">http://www.debbzie.com/2017/06/malang-night-paradise.html</a><br />
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<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-MjsOf7dx71Y/WkX5fI-OwBI/AAAAAAAArJc/UpUygVm0rD080P__eF-mnD73aUAk-3ieACKgBGAs/s1600/Malang%2BNight%2BParadise4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="666" data-original-width="1000" height="426" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-MjsOf7dx71Y/WkX5fI-OwBI/AAAAAAAArJc/UpUygVm0rD080P__eF-mnD73aUAk-3ieACKgBGAs/s640/Malang%2BNight%2BParadise4.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<b>July - Penang, Cameron Highlands, Kuala Lumpur, Singapore</b><br />
<a href="http://www.debbzie.com/2017/08/malaysia-singapore.html" target="_blank">http://www.debbzie.com/2017/08/malaysia-singapore.html</a><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-8Ipf11JY6ds/WkYDkh-JYAI/AAAAAAAArNY/L5VwXBiCJ50QUGLOneqs0eJYuu_eNOGxQCKgBGAs/s1600/P_20170718_100640_vHDR_On-01.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1199" height="640" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-8Ipf11JY6ds/WkYDkh-JYAI/AAAAAAAArNY/L5VwXBiCJ50QUGLOneqs0eJYuu_eNOGxQCKgBGAs/s640/P_20170718_100640_vHDR_On-01.jpeg" width="478" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">one of delicacies in Penang</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-2JLW1MGgJCA/WkYDkmKCOSI/AAAAAAAArNY/URoS4Bb9f0wdwFIJK2-e6zG0Oy5ioqupwCKgBGAs/s1600/P_20170717_140343_vHDR_On-01.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1066" height="640" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-2JLW1MGgJCA/WkYDkmKCOSI/AAAAAAAArNY/URoS4Bb9f0wdwFIJK2-e6zG0Oy5ioqupwCKgBGAs/s640/P_20170717_140343_vHDR_On-01.jpeg" width="426" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">the King of Fruit</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-6CHUdVyqJ4k/WkYDkmrvwPI/AAAAAAAArNY/9FjhYK9F1u80Hya-ANJ9E5NGWdtOsAlHwCKgBGAs/s1600/IMG_2405-01.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="426" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-6CHUdVyqJ4k/WkYDkmrvwPI/AAAAAAAArNY/9FjhYK9F1u80Hya-ANJ9E5NGWdtOsAlHwCKgBGAs/s640/IMG_2405-01.jpeg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Kek Lok Si temple</td></tr>
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<b>October - Azerbaijan, Georgia, Armenia</b><br />
<a href="http://www.debbzie.com/2017/11/travel-updates-azerbaijan-georgia.html" target="_blank">http://www.debbzie.com/2017/11/travel-updates-azerbaijan-georgia.html</a><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-1xsh3Oj2GyQ/WkYFXwebWdI/AAAAAAAArOA/g6JstIT3HsUWLuuqXjc73bSGJzv2jnMMgCKgBGAs/s1600/DSCF4493-01.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="426" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-1xsh3Oj2GyQ/WkYFXwebWdI/AAAAAAAArOA/g6JstIT3HsUWLuuqXjc73bSGJzv2jnMMgCKgBGAs/s640/DSCF4493-01.jpeg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">how can I not love you, Tbilisi?</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-HaEHPGfB92g/WkYFX-EK4uI/AAAAAAAArOA/mnzm6FKos70Bsjt9Cw2NM0Bw5SzDjkZOwCKgBGAs/s1600/DSCF4015-01.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="426" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-HaEHPGfB92g/WkYFX-EK4uI/AAAAAAAArOA/mnzm6FKos70Bsjt9Cw2NM0Bw5SzDjkZOwCKgBGAs/s640/DSCF4015-01.jpeg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Baku</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-kDyc8Q__oaw/WkYFaWdG1GI/AAAAAAAArOE/KRn5z2mEPOUDi3cJZF_evZ2Xga5nAsjfgCKgBGAs/s1600/IMG_20171123_173241_342.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1350" data-original-width="1080" height="640" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-kDyc8Q__oaw/WkYFaWdG1GI/AAAAAAAArOE/KRn5z2mEPOUDi3cJZF_evZ2Xga5nAsjfgCKgBGAs/s640/IMG_20171123_173241_342.jpg" width="512" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">the Mother of Armenia</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-LjqzjzewoOc/WkYFqbnki-I/AAAAAAAArOM/aWTxFMdoXagV703LQL9mhiP2j8OET9zFACKgBGAs/s1600/noravank15-01.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1068" data-original-width="1600" height="426" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-LjqzjzewoOc/WkYFqbnki-I/AAAAAAAArOM/aWTxFMdoXagV703LQL9mhiP2j8OET9zFACKgBGAs/s640/noravank15-01.jpeg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Noravank Monastery</td></tr>
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<b>December - Japan</b><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Z-ph9zCODLs/WkX_i9MZShI/AAAAAAAArLY/0uEngAnfa18H4sTfyyjT2TWAxpCZNuzpQCKgBGAs/s1600/IMG_20171216_193857_230.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="720" data-original-width="1080" height="426" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Z-ph9zCODLs/WkX_i9MZShI/AAAAAAAArLY/0uEngAnfa18H4sTfyyjT2TWAxpCZNuzpQCKgBGAs/s640/IMG_20171216_193857_230.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">just before sunset in Harajuku</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-iN0K8Zh_dxc/WkX_i9aIpgI/AAAAAAAArLY/RhCmF5GRDsEXosh0aLP6xzAdoMsVX95OgCKgBGAs/s1600/IMG_20171219_201435_433.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="720" data-original-width="1080" height="426" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-iN0K8Zh_dxc/WkX_i9aIpgI/AAAAAAAArLY/RhCmF5GRDsEXosh0aLP6xzAdoMsVX95OgCKgBGAs/s640/IMG_20171219_201435_433.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">a pretty city of Kobe</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-K0CcJwfgYiI/WkX_i06BrTI/AAAAAAAArLY/xVbfHKPrKPQYKUT_HC4m1OggWDySQVxBACKgBGAs/s1600/IMG_20171225_112002_302.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="720" data-original-width="1080" height="426" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-K0CcJwfgYiI/WkX_i06BrTI/AAAAAAAArLY/xVbfHKPrKPQYKUT_HC4m1OggWDySQVxBACKgBGAs/s640/IMG_20171225_112002_302.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">the Leksonos full team!</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-pmphOBGjsSU/WkX_ixXdC5I/AAAAAAAArLY/6sP_D7kBEWkBdXUigREOSCqEbVBGTSA7gCKgBGAs/s1600/IMG_20171222_193911_882.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="720" data-original-width="1080" height="426" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-pmphOBGjsSU/WkX_ixXdC5I/AAAAAAAArLY/6sP_D7kBEWkBdXUigREOSCqEbVBGTSA7gCKgBGAs/s640/IMG_20171222_193911_882.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Shirakawa-go</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-BE0lsAWiyMM/WkX_iytmV8I/AAAAAAAArLY/m58MwmdUyGMsQDszYdeUBa3QHcRDIsABACKgBGAs/s1600/IMG_20171228_185928_550.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1350" data-original-width="1080" height="640" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-BE0lsAWiyMM/WkX_iytmV8I/AAAAAAAArLY/m58MwmdUyGMsQDszYdeUBa3QHcRDIsABACKgBGAs/s640/IMG_20171228_185928_550.jpg" width="512" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Christmas illumination in Tokyo</td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">Happy New Year 2018, Y'all!</span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="background-color: white; text-align: justify;">May this New Year brings you a peace filled life, warmth and togetherness in your family and much prosperity! </span><span style="background-color: white; text-align: justify;">If the previous year hasn’t given you something to be happy and proud of, h</span><span style="background-color: white; text-align: justify;">opefully this year is the breakthrough one and your dreams finally turn into reality 💖💋💪</span></span><br />
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Recap of previous years:<br />
*< <a href="http://www.debbzie.com/2012/02/2011-in-nutshell.html" target="_blank">2011</a> >*< <a href="http://www.debbzie.com/2013/01/2012-in-nutshell.html" target="_blank">2012</a> >*< <a href="http://www.debbzie.com/2014/01/2013-in-nutshell.html" target="_blank">2013</a> >*< <a href="http://www.debbzie.com/2015/01/2014-in-nutshell.html" target="_blank">2014</a> >*< <a href="http://www.debbzie.com/2016/01/2015-in-nutshell.html" target="_blank">2015</a> >*< <a href="http://www.debbzie.com/2017/01/2016-in-nutshell.html" target="_blank">2016</a> >*Debbzie Leksonohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11633293406090733531noreply@blogger.com21tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1006989774341308826.post-41186858553463433512017-12-07T16:00:00.000+08:002017-12-07T18:02:43.425+08:00Armenia: Noravank Monastery The Hidden Gem Of AmaghuArmenia, October 2017<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEixmLXqeTcD_c-NIgZVe4ZbgKVs-AEyIJfL7E1RAHynpXNV5QQ23NQr46rO6mw-EbL8Nq5_vlp6NBKFGdSl-aUHVJxR9CSr-sGUfgrq2-BLVu_8r7EiwX2C9z_pjxw60ehbXnDfxscXhhgD/s1600/noravank18.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="666" data-original-width="1000" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEixmLXqeTcD_c-NIgZVe4ZbgKVs-AEyIJfL7E1RAHynpXNV5QQ23NQr46rO6mw-EbL8Nq5_vlp6NBKFGdSl-aUHVJxR9CSr-sGUfgrq2-BLVu_8r7EiwX2C9z_pjxw60ehbXnDfxscXhhgD/s640/noravank18.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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Armenia has a what it seems like an endless list of centuries old churches and monastery. For Armenian church and monastery has always been a crucial establishment. Not only for praying, they served as school or college as well. Needless to say in such a short span of time I've only managed to visit a few of them. Nevertheless I already have a hard time to decide which one is my most favourite. I seriously think Armenian are really advanced in choosing the most dramatic and extravagant location to build their churches. From atop of a beautiful lake, carved inside a rock mountain to hidden in the middle of dense forest. They believe it's the way to protect their church less vulnerable to attacks. It blew my mind when I imagine about how did they transport and construct all the materials to those hard to reach location. The first glimpse of each of the monasteries I've visited made my jaw drop. And Noravank Monastery is no exception.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-2mqScahr-Bk/WhG9_Jd4cFI/AAAAAAAAonU/ynfurqoF_L02x9M__UuiDSz9UEyyfUHVACKgBGAs/s1600/noravank3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="666" data-original-width="1000" height="426" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-2mqScahr-Bk/WhG9_Jd4cFI/AAAAAAAAonU/ynfurqoF_L02x9M__UuiDSz9UEyyfUHVACKgBGAs/s640/noravank3.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">just me and my silver 'horse' in this stunning narrow gorge 😁</td></tr>
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Noravank monastery is located at the end of narrow and deep gorge, after driving through the small twisting road. It's perched halfway up the mountain, surrounded by high peaks full of brick-red colour cliffs, known as the home of hundreds caves. So the journey itself was a pleasant reward. Feels like I was in a scene from Indiana Jones' adventure. But instead of a horse, my ride was a sprinter limo 😛.<br />
Previously I had a lunch inside one of the caves which is set into a simple restaurant. It was a unique experience indeed! I think it deserve a whole blog post itself, so stay tuned, okie! When I reached nearly the end of the gorge I looked up and my heart skipped a bit. The monastery looked striking in such an isolated area, like a hidden treasure.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj2ckUuyab6LxnH_GOOSqgu0v5aLmtKC3PIUGG4dDLHtkBLg7cm34E0V2YaMRjZ232FvdAP_kkOL-aoGiUiOCblBaCv3P-cuwAg4vmL6zZO6NsQtjXYk_Ci3DFfbPlacgXnAYQ4_zxBW6d4/s1600/noravank5.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1000" data-original-width="1500" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj2ckUuyab6LxnH_GOOSqgu0v5aLmtKC3PIUGG4dDLHtkBLg7cm34E0V2YaMRjZ232FvdAP_kkOL-aoGiUiOCblBaCv3P-cuwAg4vmL6zZO6NsQtjXYk_Ci3DFfbPlacgXnAYQ4_zxBW6d4/s640/noravank5.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">brick-red cliffs</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-IdlnfpauyOg/WiGT3QTcO_I/AAAAAAAAo4w/LfqyAJHiHasJNUbILMTiW9rK3Y4h-x4kgCKgBGAs/s1600/noravank7-01.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="426" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-IdlnfpauyOg/WiGT3QTcO_I/AAAAAAAAo4w/LfqyAJHiHasJNUbILMTiW9rK3Y4h-x4kgCKgBGAs/s640/noravank7-01.jpeg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">long winding road</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-sX9BuJIRrQw/WibRXq8KlzI/AAAAAAAAo9M/YNtq9NnvkY0aEN0zphj2DAyKMk1immiaACKgBGAs/s1600/noravank4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1000" data-original-width="1500" height="426" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-sX9BuJIRrQw/WibRXq8KlzI/AAAAAAAAo9M/YNtq9NnvkY0aEN0zphj2DAyKMk1immiaACKgBGAs/s640/noravank4.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Surb Astvatsatsin church</td></tr>
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The complex consists of two churches and one chapel; each decorated in intricate designs and religious reliefs. The grandest structure is Surb Astvatsatsin or Holy Mother of God church, famous for its two-storey architecture. It was completed in 1339 by the talented sculptor and miniaturist Momik. Sadly this masterpiece was also his last work as he died no long after and was buried in this complex.<br />
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Here's another twist about Momik. He fell in love with the daughter of Syunik's governor. But the governor didn't like him and trying to get rid of him by challenging Momik with an impossible task. Momik was ordered to build a big church complex in such a short time. If the project is succeed then Momik could marry the governor's daughter. Never underestimate the power of love, because even though it seemed hard to accomplish apparently the church complex was coming to its end even before the due date. The governor was furious and sent someone to kill Momik. His servant climbed to the dome of the church where the architect was working and pushed him. Momik fell down and died before he could marry the love of his life 😭.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-RJsA0x4aMYM/WhG9_C_SByI/AAAAAAAAonU/5P-PG5ziO88KpvSRW_loL-H7_NfGFNUTgCKgBGAs/s1600/noravank.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1000" data-original-width="1500" height="426" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-RJsA0x4aMYM/WhG9_C_SByI/AAAAAAAAonU/5P-PG5ziO88KpvSRW_loL-H7_NfGFNUTgCKgBGAs/s640/noravank.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">details on wall and khachkars</td></tr>
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There's also a number of khachkars or Armenia cross-stone which is commonly used as tombstones or sometimes used as memorials. There are some category of khachkars depending on the carved details. From standard to the highly elaborated which is called "lacework" khachkars. They are all soooo pretty and I can't get enough of it! Every time I saw one, I would spend some time to admire the details. I wish I could read Armenian alphabets so I could understand the story behind each khachkars.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-8a5DN9XFk5s/WhG9_MPcv1I/AAAAAAAAonU/-GAUHHm71rkmF6Px4K2FbpEzyLEmn6vwgCKgBGAs/s1600/noravank17.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1000" data-original-width="667" height="640" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-8a5DN9XFk5s/WhG9_MPcv1I/AAAAAAAAonU/-GAUHHm71rkmF6Px4K2FbpEzyLEmn6vwgCKgBGAs/s640/noravank17.jpg" width="426" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">super narrow stairs at the church entrance</td></tr>
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Nope! That's not me on the picture. I really wanted to reach the second floor but when I saw the narrow steps, my heart sank and my legs turned to jelly. Dang you, acrophobia! It's probably only 15 cm width so it's difficult to balance my once-petite-but-now-curvy body. Trying the lizard-crawling-on-the-wall moves with my face stuck to wall and did not make it either. Afraid of ruining the 13th century historic site, I decided to settle with the ground floor only. Apparently it's more difficult to climb down that going up. I saw some people were panicking because they couldn't figure out how to climb down that deadly stairs since there's no guardrail to hold on, only an unstable rope 😱<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Ip4zuJi_eM0/WhG9_P3v4iI/AAAAAAAAonU/gErD4029I4QcFRL6UNe1nHyb-zyv7jkzQCKgBGAs/s1600/noravank1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1000" data-original-width="1500" height="426" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Ip4zuJi_eM0/WhG9_P3v4iI/AAAAAAAAonU/gErD4029I4QcFRL6UNe1nHyb-zyv7jkzQCKgBGAs/s640/noravank1.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">relief sculpture </td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-aEx8Gt05tsE/WhG9_BjUpcI/AAAAAAAAonU/M0a0PRkrRsQpuiJ1niDWJoSvgAYsdxapgCKgBGAs/s1600/noravank8.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="665" data-original-width="1000" height="424" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-aEx8Gt05tsE/WhG9_BjUpcI/AAAAAAAAonU/M0a0PRkrRsQpuiJ1niDWJoSvgAYsdxapgCKgBGAs/s640/noravank8.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">the eyes that saved Noravank Monastery. Thank God! (literally) </td></tr>
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Gayane, my pretty cicerone told me that this complex of churches almost didn't survive the Middle Ages. When the Mongols conquered Armenia in the 13th century they destroyed many of the historic temples in the country. And Noravank Monastery was just about to be demolished when they saw a relief of God with large almond-shaped eyes. This conciliation to the Mongol's physical Asiatic heritage seems to calm the army and left Noravank in peace.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Xdvuiv401eU/WiGTQsphaGI/AAAAAAAAo4k/77A4HnzbDqUkvEKeM5yE6g-nVVA_W_enACKgBGAs/s1600/noravank6.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="666" data-original-width="1000" height="426" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Xdvuiv401eU/WiGTQsphaGI/AAAAAAAAo4k/77A4HnzbDqUkvEKeM5yE6g-nVVA_W_enACKgBGAs/s640/noravank6.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Surb Karapet church</td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">The second church is Surb Karapet where the dome was damaged twice during earthquakes in1340 and 1931. <span style="background-color: white;">After the earthquake, the new roof that they made had a new the shape. They made the structure quite different from other Armenian monuments of the same kind. In this church, the ceiling has four rows of brackets and forms stalactite vaulting with a square lighting aperture at the top. As most visitors flocked around Surb </span></span>Astvatsatsin (queueing to climb the stairs of death, that is), I found Surb Karapet to be more serene. I had all the church by myself, admiring the interior and beautiful inscribed gravestones.<br />
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<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-VeN7MjnJn80/WhG9_MYlxuI/AAAAAAAAonU/CmoRxALGE5E1i6qF2f-IEFYo6mzMHX63QCKgBGAs/s1600/noravank9.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="666" data-original-width="1000" height="426" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-VeN7MjnJn80/WhG9_MYlxuI/AAAAAAAAonU/CmoRxALGE5E1i6qF2f-IEFYo6mzMHX63QCKgBGAs/s640/noravank9.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-DyTy9sfgwvQ/WhG9_LB1dlI/AAAAAAAAonU/_qN35k43v5YeQMWqZfgCF8KttBQTIWT4gCKgBGAs/s1600/noravank11.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1000" data-original-width="1500" height="426" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-DyTy9sfgwvQ/WhG9_LB1dlI/AAAAAAAAonU/_qN35k43v5YeQMWqZfgCF8KttBQTIWT4gCKgBGAs/s640/noravank11.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">interior</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">one of the inscribed gravestones</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">the altar</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Noravank Monastery</td></tr>
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My pictures can't do justice to the beauty of Noravank Monastery and the surrounding. I brag a lot in superlative words that I might sound like I'm being paid by Armenia tourism to promote their country. Believe me, it's not a sponsored post. Armenia maybe is not a big country but it has so much to offer. The more places I visit, the more I yearn to discover another. It's addictive! Perhaps because I have a thing about inscrutable remote areas as it tickled my curiosity. If you ask me whether Noravank Monastery worth the 2 hours drive from Yerevan (about 120 kilometres)? Yes, a big YES! It is a real gem to visit specially if you fond of historical buildings like I do. </div>
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Debbzie Leksonohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11633293406090733531noreply@blogger.com18tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1006989774341308826.post-86984080679167376812017-11-11T21:57:00.003+08:002017-11-11T21:57:30.286+08:00Travel Updates: Azerbaijan, Georgia & ArmeniaOctober 2017<br />
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<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-CETSnlSqjDM/Wf8obl7RudI/AAAAAAAAoLs/TAjBh7Z_OioWPWaiXhLyCfEuLatx6X6GwCKgBGAs/s1600/2017_1023_01584700-02.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="945" data-original-width="1418" height="426" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-CETSnlSqjDM/Wf8obl7RudI/AAAAAAAAoLs/TAjBh7Z_OioWPWaiXhLyCfEuLatx6X6GwCKgBGAs/s640/2017_1023_01584700-02.jpeg" width="640" /></a></div>
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My initial plan was an autumn trip to Romania. I truly enjoyed spending autumn in the Baltics last year and thought Romania would look gorgeous too covered in red goldish foliage. But for some reason the trip was cancelled. Feeling gutted that I had to postpone my date with Count Drakula, my 'Puppy Love' when I was a kid (you are one weird kid indeed, Debbz! 👻); I changed the destination to the Caucasus. Fortunately it's quite easy for Indonesian passport to obtain Azerbaijan, Georgian and Armenia visa. Yay! It's time to pack and jet off!<br />
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Uh oh, not so soon, lady! Unfortunately there was another obstacle. My Dad was down with some abnormal liver function and severe dehydration that he had to be admitted to hospital just 3 weeks before our departure. He had jaundice and his thrombosis dropped to only 70K. We were so ready to fly to Singapore instead and called off our trip. Long story short he recovered well and insisted to go. So here we are again. It's time to (last minute) pack and jet off!<br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><b>Azerbaijan</b></span><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-_PSMz7WmdmM/WfrmG8NsRUI/AAAAAAAAoDw/GhMh64XRdWQvsU0Mrk60mPXtlgmtHsowwCKgBGAs/s1600/IMG_20171019_145107_840.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="426" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-_PSMz7WmdmM/WfrmG8NsRUI/AAAAAAAAoDw/GhMh64XRdWQvsU0Mrk60mPXtlgmtHsowwCKgBGAs/s640/IMG_20171019_145107_840.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Heydar Aliyev International Airport</td></tr>
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It's quite a journey for us, started the flight from Malang, my hometown to Jakarta where we catch the flight by Qatar Airways to Baku via Doha. Immigration and custom processs at Heydar Aliyev International Airport was easy peasy, and in a blink of an eye I was already in the arrival hall. So let's begin our adventures...<br />
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First thing that caught my attention was that cute taxis parked neatly in the airport!!! I've always looooove vintage cars. It reminds me of the wallet-draining taxi ride in London on my first day school (zone 1) because I had no idea how to get to my new home (zone 3) 😂. Okay, back to Baku. I'm really impressed that Baku is really really clean and well organised too.<br />
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A trip to Azerbaijan wouldn't complete without a visit to Gobustan National Park where there's tons of ancient carvings from the prehistoric time. I also visited Diri Baba Mausoleum and Yeddi Gumbaz ancient graveyard from the 18th century. Then another stop at Juma Mosque in Shamakhi where the bloodiest massacre occurred in 1918 (around 1700 people perished 💔 ).<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Gobustan National Park</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-QX9BJeO3ngQ/WfrmG2RzxEI/AAAAAAAAoDw/qEy3h2LudTIDk14iT5Rci-SeT5u5duVLACKgBGAs/s1600/DSCF4133-01.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="426" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-QX9BJeO3ngQ/WfrmG2RzxEI/AAAAAAAAoDw/qEy3h2LudTIDk14iT5Rci-SeT5u5duVLACKgBGAs/s640/DSCF4133-01.jpeg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Baku Old Town</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-OpXGyuCe14U/WfrmG99X1qI/AAAAAAAAoDw/hsO-rvAoF1E2fNTXvAokdJXcZCFSxfHsQCKgBGAs/s1600/IMG_20171021_184814_372.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="426" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-OpXGyuCe14U/WfrmG99X1qI/AAAAAAAAoDw/hsO-rvAoF1E2fNTXvAokdJXcZCFSxfHsQCKgBGAs/s640/IMG_20171021_184814_372.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Diri Baba Mausoleum</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-A4a04VMHrkE/WfrmG4yOdBI/AAAAAAAAoDw/tDn-Myu4CMoGdodfU-DSIY5vP5DaZLxbwCKgBGAs/s1600/DSCF4242-01.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="426" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-A4a04VMHrkE/WfrmG4yOdBI/AAAAAAAAoDw/tDn-Myu4CMoGdodfU-DSIY5vP5DaZLxbwCKgBGAs/s640/DSCF4242-01.jpeg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Yeddi Gumbaz mausoleum </td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiwUkOTef5_Ca6Oj1oy7Enw_Oft0hdkn6gvrHUtcMMBmrrZ27jzgpyX7P6X_ak1sMpEfba5b0ZykVl9Sr0w_a8ZmTievkSaMBQw8cQdVT6hE-etYPSXgs_Htl2MvbtoON1XyJGOTlnRzfmI/s1600/IMG-20171021-WA0001-01.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="864" data-original-width="648" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiwUkOTef5_Ca6Oj1oy7Enw_Oft0hdkn6gvrHUtcMMBmrrZ27jzgpyX7P6X_ak1sMpEfba5b0ZykVl9Sr0w_a8ZmTievkSaMBQw8cQdVT6hE-etYPSXgs_Htl2MvbtoON1XyJGOTlnRzfmI/s640/IMG-20171021-WA0001-01.jpeg" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">covering our hair at Juma Mosque in Shamakhi</td></tr>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><b>Georgia</b></span><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Z4M1HLqlDDA/WfrmLibLkUI/AAAAAAAAoD4/7I9NwZat_U0l3s_08E6yzEN7_nqtQOPwACKgBGAs/s1600/IMG_20171023_073548_607.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="720" data-original-width="1080" height="426" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Z4M1HLqlDDA/WfrmLibLkUI/AAAAAAAAoD4/7I9NwZat_U0l3s_08E6yzEN7_nqtQOPwACKgBGAs/s640/IMG_20171023_073548_607.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">the City of Love, Sighnaghi</td></tr>
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Stayed the night in Sheki, the next morning we headed to Balakan and crossed the Azerbaijan-Georgia border in Lagodekhi. It was a smooth one, definitely nothing to compare the Jordan-Israel border crossing I had a few years back which was pretty terrifying. We then joined a Georgian traditional family lunch at Simonay's house. They introduced me to assorted traditional delicacies such as Khachapuri (Georgian pizza), Shoti (Georgian baguette), Churchkhlea (traditional sweets), Rkatsiteli (homemade wine) and more.<br />
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Then before continue the journey to Tbilisi, I spent my afternoon wandering around Sighnaghi. It's called the City of Love because lovey dovey couples can get married at Sighnaghi Wedding House anytime of the day. Yes, it's open 24/7 just like mini mart. Should I named it mini Las Vegas perhaps? 👯<br />
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Spent the next day to explore Tbilisi, started with a cable car ride to Narikala Fortress. I really loved the view from above, over the Mtkvari River and Tbilisi Old Town. In my opinion, Baku is really pretty but Tbilisi is oozing with character. It's sooo charming that I feel like hugging it really tight like a teddy bear doll. Besides historical buildings, the narrow alleys are filled with attractions, restaurants and shops. The cobblestones street and quaint old house with wooden balconies reminds me of Disney film set.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgyM-WeAhCMd68dlw6GOGVnmif-wklFGnXfIEK-kW_frCR0fvdH391m8I2gjsK353emFRrc-fPUMEJzJXBBwRGQWty_fvbr0fdv1kcJKJ25vukYJjkpf4HKfJAWptlHgATOgcvhyphenhyphenHIWSajp/s1600/DSCF4340-01.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgyM-WeAhCMd68dlw6GOGVnmif-wklFGnXfIEK-kW_frCR0fvdH391m8I2gjsK353emFRrc-fPUMEJzJXBBwRGQWty_fvbr0fdv1kcJKJ25vukYJjkpf4HKfJAWptlHgATOgcvhyphenhyphenHIWSajp/s640/DSCF4340-01.jpeg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">lunch at Simonay's house</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-WRiad7XrdQQ/WfrmLm_ruZI/AAAAAAAAoD4/GfWrgrsaxqsZvT_2e1ebvtypCCZqk_pPwCKgBGAs/s1600/IMG_20171024_064934_706.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="426" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-WRiad7XrdQQ/WfrmLm_ruZI/AAAAAAAAoD4/GfWrgrsaxqsZvT_2e1ebvtypCCZqk_pPwCKgBGAs/s640/IMG_20171024_064934_706.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">cable car ride in Tbilisi</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-q9_P_9vDg1A/WfrmLlZuojI/AAAAAAAAoD4/mrpVIY52GgUCreqayU1EqnGQ4dq2Li5LACKgBGAs/s1600/DSCF4697-01.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="426" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-q9_P_9vDg1A/WfrmLlZuojI/AAAAAAAAoD4/mrpVIY52GgUCreqayU1EqnGQ4dq2Li5LACKgBGAs/s640/DSCF4697-01.jpeg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Georgian Orthodox Cathedral</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-jY1WveMzOWU/WfrmLsrCEqI/AAAAAAAAoD4/QVvK4N9ceF8abKrVx2oklqFwRaqjR5_VQCKgBGAs/s1600/DSCF4686-01.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="426" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-jY1WveMzOWU/WfrmLsrCEqI/AAAAAAAAoD4/QVvK4N9ceF8abKrVx2oklqFwRaqjR5_VQCKgBGAs/s640/DSCF4686-01.jpeg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Sioni Cathedral in Tbilisi</td></tr>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><b>Armenia</b></span><br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-dr4EJLnbqig/WfrmdBGiMDI/AAAAAAAAoEA/-4EhTK9rvHAc2yzUTzacgZOEjhAlMNBAgCKgBGAs/s1600/2017_1026_05411100-01.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1067" height="640" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-dr4EJLnbqig/WfrmdBGiMDI/AAAAAAAAoEA/-4EhTK9rvHAc2yzUTzacgZOEjhAlMNBAgCKgBGAs/s640/2017_1026_05411100-01.jpeg" width="426" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Noravank Monastery</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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If I have to describe each country in one word: Azerbaijan is alluring, Georgia is charming and Armenia is home. Among the three countries, I found that immigration officers in Armenia are the nicest. There was no anxiety whatsoever when I walked into the control points. Instead the ambiance was very relaxed. I was waiting for my visa to be processed when some curious officers approached me, asking where I am from. "Welcome to Armenia!" They greeted me with a warm smile, even before my passport get stamped 😆. The people I had met along the trip too are genuinely friendly and helpful and love to smile. There were some occasions when I was clueless and some strangers would approach me trying to help without being asked.<br />
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The landscape in Armenia has taken road trip to another level, well at least for me. The diversity really blew my mind. I was enjoying the dense forest view with autumn foliage in full force outside my window when it suddenly became dark as we passing through a light less tunnel. Just in a few minutes, at the end of the tunnel my eyes squinted as I reach daylight again and then voila! The landscape around has changed to arid rocky plateau with with no trees at sight. So dramatic it felt like teleportation!<br />
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I love historical sites even though I can't remember which years of what or which century of what. Seriously, I'm sooo bad with numbers that sometimes I can't even remember my age. Doh! I'm always fond of ancient architectures and Armenia has tons of it. I managed to visit Geghard Monastery, Sevan Monastery, Haghartsin Monastery and some others. Definitely should go back again in near future to explore the south area.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-RRneHtfnQf4/WfrmdJPRPOI/AAAAAAAAoEA/2v4Qt81KBb8yQ13ajDG5KDEASTxnpMfSgCKgBGAs/s1600/2017_1025_04495900-02.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1067" height="640" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-RRneHtfnQf4/WfrmdJPRPOI/AAAAAAAAoEA/2v4Qt81KBb8yQ13ajDG5KDEASTxnpMfSgCKgBGAs/s640/2017_1025_04495900-02.jpeg" width="426" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">autumn foliage 💘</td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-PaikMDo-sQo/WfrmdLfwWPI/AAAAAAAAoEA/j1M6LyVGgbEfhTr7LOpNXANfu0lmZcB1gCKgBGAs/s1600/IMG_20171031_180713_489.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="720" data-original-width="1080" height="426" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-PaikMDo-sQo/WfrmdLfwWPI/AAAAAAAAoEA/j1M6LyVGgbEfhTr7LOpNXANfu0lmZcB1gCKgBGAs/s640/IMG_20171031_180713_489.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Garni</td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-dl2WRROZdWA/WfrmdCJlBCI/AAAAAAAAoEA/zV6guSEdKgABE0bwcJtvCOfdPuvHqGLRwCKgBGAs/s1600/DSCF5756-01.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="426" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-dl2WRROZdWA/WfrmdCJlBCI/AAAAAAAAoEA/zV6guSEdKgABE0bwcJtvCOfdPuvHqGLRwCKgBGAs/s640/DSCF5756-01.jpeg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Armenian Farmer Market</td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-dc8jsI-r6rw/WfrmdFiLbPI/AAAAAAAAoEA/zKbwO7FNPT05Rq6VL4EEGSXhQNJY5WkJgCKgBGAs/s1600/IMG_20171025_085321_225.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="720" data-original-width="1080" height="426" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-dc8jsI-r6rw/WfrmdFiLbPI/AAAAAAAAoEA/zKbwO7FNPT05Rq6VL4EEGSXhQNJY5WkJgCKgBGAs/s640/IMG_20171025_085321_225.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Haghartsin Monastery</td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ezhPWtL9Kfs/WfrmdJPevyI/AAAAAAAAoEA/fomTQAAULu49HOXVEk4UeO8M0r1UbwMMQCKgBGAs/s1600/IMG_20171026_145552_266.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1350" data-original-width="1080" height="640" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ezhPWtL9Kfs/WfrmdJPevyI/AAAAAAAAoEA/fomTQAAULu49HOXVEk4UeO8M0r1UbwMMQCKgBGAs/s640/IMG_20171026_145552_266.jpg" width="512" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Geghard Monastery</td></tr>
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By all means 2 weeks trip around the 3 countries was a short time indeed and barely scratched the surface. But my family have business to run and I have 12 dogs at home to take care. So I gotta make the best use out of my short yet precious holiday. It's time to go home and earn some cash again for our next trip (which is in less than a month 😂). Unpacking my suitcase, re-packing and applying another visa now. I will surely blog more about each places soon!<br />
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<b>Which ones would you like to read about?</b><br />
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<br />Debbzie Leksonohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11633293406090733531noreply@blogger.com24tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1006989774341308826.post-52078117950977594922017-09-26T08:30:00.000+08:002017-09-26T08:30:18.356+08:00Estonia: Tallinn Haunted Story, Seagull & AlmondsEstonia, October 2016<br />
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<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-mIvE4U5KMJI/WbLS_4kslzI/AAAAAAAAlac/p1nGFjfLDSs7G9Jj1tF3n1-H8apKpn0GQCKgBGAs/s1600/tallinn1-01.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="666" data-original-width="1000" height="426" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-mIvE4U5KMJI/WbLS_4kslzI/AAAAAAAAlac/p1nGFjfLDSs7G9Jj1tF3n1-H8apKpn0GQCKgBGAs/s640/tallinn1-01.jpeg" width="640" /></a></div>
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I'm not a morning person.<br />
Funnily when I travel, I don't mind at all getting up early even before the sun rises.<br />
On the second day in Tallinn I woke up at 5 am feeling energised despite the long haul flight from Singapore on previous day. I was overly excited because when picking me up at the airport, Nikholai - my cicerone told me that he was going to take me to the Short-Gate tower which is infamous for its black monk ghosts. Me likey spooky thingy! 😍<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-IfsArB5u9uM/WbLS_-0bnGI/AAAAAAAAlac/6cRTKHbjaSIgvyUF9EVj-fwOGmOzPOaOQCKgBGAs/s1600/tallinn-01.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="666" data-original-width="1000" height="426" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-IfsArB5u9uM/WbLS_-0bnGI/AAAAAAAAlac/6cRTKHbjaSIgvyUF9EVj-fwOGmOzPOaOQCKgBGAs/s640/tallinn-01.jpeg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">roasted nuts vendor </td></tr>
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But first Nikholai took me to Kohtuotsa viewing platform on the northern side of Toompea hill. It offers charming view over the red roofs and towering spires of the Old Town with the Gulf of Finland as a background. It was soooo mesmerising that I shed happy tears. If you love exploring a place when the streets are empty and quiet (like I do), you should really consider to visit Tallinn during autumn. There was no one else around in the viewing platform which normally is packed with visitors. And those colourful autumn foliage was the icing on the cake.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiqpt10mQeiN7DGj3rf0t864EIwbhNP2gkClx9r-J40JDO_pyxFUTWSRvmK4JMg54oQlOF-othdt6sqx8-LEE3_FglZSi31odATF4qH8b-kbPu1g37oe7_3WdxRZUvUHmLSsYnwk-kB03nl/s1600/tallinn18-01.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="666" data-original-width="1000" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiqpt10mQeiN7DGj3rf0t864EIwbhNP2gkClx9r-J40JDO_pyxFUTWSRvmK4JMg54oQlOF-othdt6sqx8-LEE3_FglZSi31odATF4qH8b-kbPu1g37oe7_3WdxRZUvUHmLSsYnwk-kB03nl/s640/tallinn18-01.jpeg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">freshly roasted assorted nuts </td></tr>
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The aroma of caramelised sugar with a hint of cinnamon tickled my nose. In one corner I noticed there's a wooden food chart and a woman in a medieval attire was roasting some almonds. Snacking time! My mom, my sister and I spent a good 15 minutes choosing which flavours to buy. Cherry cinnamon cashew nuts, cinnamon caramel peanuts, gourmet almonds and more variants to choose from. I opened a the pretty package of the roasted almonds to taste it. It was crunchy and the coating wasn't overly sweet just the way I like it.<br />
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"Pa, please hold this package for me." I handed the almonds to my Dad as I needed to get some cash from my bag. "Try it, Pa. It tastes really good."<br />
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"Sure!" He replied and walk away towards the terrace. After paying, I turned around trying to find my Dad......and my jaw dropped when I saw what he was doing.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Z3mwBJ9AtSM/WbLS_9eSr6I/AAAAAAAAlac/f94MIrHB_G09w2GdGnOTuLHQ8dEMHQSNgCKgBGAs/s1600/tallinn2-01.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="666" data-original-width="1000" height="426" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Z3mwBJ9AtSM/WbLS_9eSr6I/AAAAAAAAlac/f94MIrHB_G09w2GdGnOTuLHQ8dEMHQSNgCKgBGAs/s640/tallinn2-01.jpeg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">I turned around and saw this!!! 😱😱😱</td></tr>
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He was feeding a seagull with my yummy and precious caramelised almonds! NOOO!<br />
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"Pa! Why are you giving my almonds to that bird?" I whined as I saw the bird gulped my €2 delicacies greedily. "We are not supposed to feed the wildlife, you know?"<br />
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"But this poor guy is hungry. No worries at least I left some for you. Here!" He chuckled and handed me back the package.<br />
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"Yeah rite, Dad! I have only 5 almonds now including the crumbs." 😭😭😭<br />
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It's a good thing that on the way to the Short-Gate Tower, my attention was distracted by gorgeous architectures along the way. It didn't take long for me to forget about the almond tragedy.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-z3xm663XUh8/WbLS_6vIpEI/AAAAAAAAlac/K48e83jOd3kKKasbiQFe-3bd9ka47iN1gCKgBGAs/s1600/tallinn3-01.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="666" data-original-width="1000" height="426" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-z3xm663XUh8/WbLS_6vIpEI/AAAAAAAAlac/K48e83jOd3kKKasbiQFe-3bd9ka47iN1gCKgBGAs/s640/tallinn3-01.jpeg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">that lil' <span style="background-color: white;">thief savouring my almonds</span></td></tr>
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<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-swf8GCT_G3A/WbLS_7vNIaI/AAAAAAAAlac/wn2oBHj0ijorEheXTaKgJWLlSk4JJzPJgCKgBGAs/s1600/tallinn4-01.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1000" data-original-width="666" height="640" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-swf8GCT_G3A/WbLS_7vNIaI/AAAAAAAAlac/wn2oBHj0ijorEheXTaKgJWLlSk4JJzPJgCKgBGAs/s640/tallinn4-01.jpeg" width="426" /></a></div>
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Walls of Tallinn was constructed around the 14th centuries to fend off invaders. The 5 metres tall walls are connected with multitude gates and towers. Some towers have interesting stories behind its closed door. Such as the Virgin's Tower which was used as prison for prostitutes. And another one that stuck in my mind is Kiek in de Kök Tower, simply because I found the name kinda amusing. Errr...kick in the cock? Ouch! 😂 Actually Kiek in de Kök comes from German words which means peek in the kitchen. A legend said about some soldiers who often peeked from the top of the tower into the windows of Lower Town Kitchen.<br />
(Disclaimer: Don't worry, no medieval cocks were harmed in this tower).<br />
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I'd really love to explore all the towers, sadly due to limited time I could only visited a few of them. In particular I was interested the most about the Short Leg Gate Tower. It is believed to be the most haunted building in the city!<br />
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We were just passing the gate when Nikholai pointing up something above me. I looked up and my soul jumped out my body. A faceless dark monk was staring down at me! I breathed a sigh of relief upon finding out it was just a statue. Phew! It looked sooo real, it gave me chill.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-eKoa9icFZog/WbwS5DS0PbI/AAAAAAAAlm0/ocee2LY9hiM4ErUegpiZYu9RxKVSYMjxgCKgBGAs/s1600/tallinn17-01.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1000" data-original-width="665" height="640" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-eKoa9icFZog/WbwS5DS0PbI/AAAAAAAAlm0/ocee2LY9hiM4ErUegpiZYu9RxKVSYMjxgCKgBGAs/s640/tallinn17-01.jpeg" width="424" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">staring down fiercely at me</td></tr>
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<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-shvggeGVaEY/WbwS5DoBH_I/AAAAAAAAlm0/HSOUBrgPFLsyQ8G2q0l9Dho0tBXqDsyqgCKgBGAs/s1600/tallinn14-01.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1000" data-original-width="665" height="640" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-shvggeGVaEY/WbwS5DoBH_I/AAAAAAAAlm0/HSOUBrgPFLsyQ8G2q0l9Dho0tBXqDsyqgCKgBGAs/s640/tallinn14-01.jpeg" width="424" /></a></div>
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The Short Leg Gate Tower would be locked every night to keep the lower town out of Toompea Hill which was reserved for noble or higher social people only. Apparently also meant to keep out the ghosts from the Danish King's Garden. Infamous frequent sightings are a floating woman in medieval dress, lions, life size ships sailing through the walls and the Black Monk ghost. Rumours said that the monk's name was probably Justinius, a novice set on becoming a monk and was killed in 1233 before he could repent for his sins as a executioner's apprentice.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-N373KFSzjlE/WbwSt_oxCCI/AAAAAAAAlmw/5AofE_5JBbABn1plxLvKZPXwmnfsGzW3wCKgBGAs/s1600/tallinn13-01.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="666" data-original-width="1000" height="426" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-N373KFSzjlE/WbwSt_oxCCI/AAAAAAAAlmw/5AofE_5JBbABn1plxLvKZPXwmnfsGzW3wCKgBGAs/s640/tallinn13-01.jpeg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">black monk ghost</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-gwVLZxtGZcM/Wci_DpeRGYI/AAAAAAAAlw0/LlpegiiJpdUric9e5VLsJy4n_iWwqHzTACKgBGAs/s1600/tallinn12-01.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1000" data-original-width="665" height="640" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-gwVLZxtGZcM/Wci_DpeRGYI/AAAAAAAAlw0/LlpegiiJpdUric9e5VLsJy4n_iWwqHzTACKgBGAs/s640/tallinn12-01.jpeg" width="424" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">a cafe in the city wall tower, how cool!</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-bBULNBJQOPQ/WbLS_5fM58I/AAAAAAAAlac/CjtEiRYyIwI2pPGxbIAO2EaT65f3wJsJgCKgBGAs/s1600/tallinn7-01.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="666" data-original-width="1000" height="426" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-bBULNBJQOPQ/WbLS_5fM58I/AAAAAAAAlac/CjtEiRYyIwI2pPGxbIAO2EaT65f3wJsJgCKgBGAs/s640/tallinn7-01.jpeg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Kohvik Dannebrog, the Tower cafe</td></tr>
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Before continuing our Old Town walking tour, Nikholai took my sister and I for a morning exercise by climbing some killer steep stairs to Kohvik Dannebrog. It's a cafe nests at the top of the old city wall tower. We didn't order anything because Mom & Dad were waiting at the courtyard. It would be too challenging for them to climb those old stone stairs. The cafe has a lovely settings and pretty view from the terrace. So it's definitely worth the leg and bum workout.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Vana Tallinn, a rum based liquor </td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">view from the terrace</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">climbing the steep stairs</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Kohvik Dannebrog Cafe</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">gorgeous view from Kohtuotsa </td></tr>
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I can now safely say that I've been to Tallinn and met the infamous black monk ghost (well, kinda :p). As one of the most perfectly preserved medieval city in Europe, a bunch of terrifying dark stories can be easily found around the city. I wished I could stay longer here. This city is charming and intriguing at the same time. I know that I have made many promises to other cities around the world to revisit. But hey, Tallinn you are right on top of my list. Please always stay as you are. xoxoxo<br />
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<br />Debbzie Leksonohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11633293406090733531noreply@blogger.com26tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1006989774341308826.post-81812490606243215792017-08-27T02:45:00.000+08:002017-08-27T02:45:55.182+08:00France: A Bubbly Afternoon At Champagne PommeryReims, July 2014<br />
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Though I'm not a wine drinker ( sadly I always get abdominal pain after drinking alcohol.), I do love visiting vineyard or doing cellar tour. That afternoon after spending sometime at the magnificent <a href="http://www.debbzie.com/2014/10/france-cathedrale-notre-dame-de-reims.html" target="_blank">Notre-Dame de Reims</a>, I needed to find out about the other 'must do things in Reims'. Half way to Visitor Centre, I saw Yener, my super helpful chauffeur was waving his hand to me.<br />
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"Hey, Debbz! I got you some of these brochures from the Tourist Centre." He greet me with a wide smile on his face. Apparently he did all the research while I was having lunch at a nearby restaurant. How thoughtful! "While in Reims which is famous for its champagne, why don't you do a cellar tour?"<br />
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"That's a great idea! Which company would you recommend?"<br />
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"Well there's plenty companies here but I've pick some for you which have tours in English. And the one in Pommery will start in about 30 minutes."<br />
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"Then Pommery it is! Please take me there now. Merci!" Enthusiastically I hop in his black Mercedes Viano and off we went.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Champagne Pommery</td></tr>
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<span style="background-color: white; orphans: 2;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="color: #252525; font-family: inherit; font-size: 16px;">The House of Pommery began in 1856. Madame Pommery discovered she was expecting a child, at the age of 38. This miraculous pregnancy, more than 17 years after her first, would change the Pommery’s lives forever. To provide for his baby daughter, Mr Pommery decided to go back into business. But the wool industry was in crisis. However, the Champagne trade was booming…</span></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">In 1858, when she took over as head of Pommery et Greno upon her husband’s death, Madame Pommery began expanding her company with a focus on creating wines that were like no other. She was driven by the constant standard for extreme quality. She was aware of the importance of grape origin to wine quality; over the years, she built up one of the finest vineyards in Champagne.</span></div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">upside down elephant by artist Daniel Firman</span></td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">le Grand Foudre</td></tr>
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The Pommery blending barrel is one of the largest in the world. The huge barrel holds 75.000 litres or equivalent of 100.000 bottles. To celebrate the ties of friendship by Pommery between France and America, this giant barrel was sent to St. Louis for exhibition at the World's Fair.<br />
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The sculpture on the Grand Foudre represents France in the form of a young woman, offering a glass of Pommery to America, depicted astride a sphinx like creature with a head of an Indian. Above on the left you can see the statue of Liberty in the port of New York. And the ship bringing the Grand Foudre to the New World, on the right side. The base recreates panoramic view of Reims, dominated by its famous Cathedral that I visited earlier.<br />
Inscribed in the wood is the artist's signature "Emile Galle Nancy 1904".<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">116 steps down </td></tr>
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The first glimpse of the 50 hectares estates just blew my mind. Yener drove in lower speed as we passed through a pair of gilded gates and a huge well kept garden. As I hopped off the car, my jaw dropped. The neo-Gothic style building was sooooo grand I thought I was brought to a palace. I looked at my outfit and felt 'blah'. I should have dress nicer instead of this set of tank top, ripped jeans and sneakers. Oh well, never mind. A princess will still a princess without her ballgown, jewelled crown and glass shoes, right? I pulled my best smile and walked towards the entrance.<br />
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After registering and choosing the type of tour, I joined another fellow visitors (around 8 of them) and we were guided to what looked like an infinity steps. Okay it's actually only 116 steps but it looked dramatic with the lighting and the old musty smell walls.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">another art installation</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">they used these baskets to transfer wines</td></tr>
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It's been said that the cellar is the deepest in Champagne region (about 30 m deep) and there's around 120 massive cave connected by 19 km of tunnels. During the tour, not only I learn a thing or two about champagne production, I also enjoyed the art installations throughout several caves. Yup, Pommery is a supporter of contemporary arts. The tour was fun, eclectic and quirky at the same time. Quite different experience from the vineyard tour I did in Canada, the <a href="http://www.debbzie.com/2012/09/canada-alcoholess-drunk-in-summerhill.html" target="_blank">Summerhill Pyramid Winery</a>.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">more than 2 million bottles are kept in this cellar</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">super cool lights tunnel</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">and 116 steps up</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-nAhB4w_ASHg/WZxv8c9KkZI/AAAAAAAAk3U/Iw_DN5HjtZgFAK6oQMChM_jaV7OMr0NxgCKgBGAs/s1600/IMG_7972.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1066" data-original-width="1600" height="426" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-nAhB4w_ASHg/WZxv8c9KkZI/AAAAAAAAk3U/Iw_DN5HjtZgFAK6oQMChM_jaV7OMr0NxgCKgBGAs/s640/IMG_7972.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">meet Madame Pommery</td></tr>
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<i style="background-color: white;">‘I wanted this estate to read like an open book, telling the story of the changing world around it and the passage of time. Leave your mark here as I left my eternal trace. May it be worthy of respect for this champagne that is now our shared soul, one that bears—now and forever—the memory of our art’</i><span style="background-color: white;">. Madame Pommery</span><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-CJpqcxkiUdk/WWXd3aEjo2I/AAAAAAAAiq8/NvhI8Id6VHIzUmXkAWiHWtwgs2eh4sR5ACKgBGAs/s1600/IMG_7981.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1066" data-original-width="1600" height="426" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-CJpqcxkiUdk/WWXd3aEjo2I/AAAAAAAAiq8/NvhI8Id6VHIzUmXkAWiHWtwgs2eh4sR5ACKgBGAs/s640/IMG_7981.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Champagne Pommery</td></tr>
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<br />Now come to the best part: Champagne tasting! After hundreds of steps up and down and walked around the labyrinth like cellar I think I deserve a sip of cold champagne. Obviously I'm not an expert so I can't really elaborate in details but the champagne tasted pretty delicate.<br />
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If you ever plan to explore Reims, make sure to put cellar tour on your list. There are many Champagne house to choose so if you have ample time, you might want to visit more than one to learn their uniqueness and to compare their products. For me Champagne Pommery was an interesting twist on the traditional cellar tour. Tchin tchin!<br />
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><b style="background-color: white;">DOMAINE POMMERY </b><br style="background-color: white;" /><span style="background-color: white;">5, place Général Gouraud</span><br style="background-color: white;" /><span style="background-color: white;">51 100 REIMS - FRANCE</span><br style="background-color: white;" /><span style="background-color: white;">Tél : 0033 3 26 61 62 56</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">Tours are guided in English, French and German. Ticket starts from €13</span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;">More information and reservation please contact domaine@vrankenpommery.fr or book <a href="http://pommery.tickeasy.com/Accueil.aspx" target="_blank">here </a></span><br />
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<br />Debbzie Leksonohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11633293406090733531noreply@blogger.com28tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1006989774341308826.post-70631353047789910112017-08-09T07:30:00.000+08:002017-08-09T07:30:16.928+08:00Travel Updates: Malaysia & Singapore<span style="font-family: inherit;">July 2017</span><br />
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<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-h-ZdQms4rKU/WX3rdrT3RMI/AAAAAAAAj_Y/vm9aeCD6KWkcmKIfHd2BR0sYx4YG67VawCKgBGAs/s1600/IMG_2413-01.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="426" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-h-ZdQms4rKU/WX3rdrT3RMI/AAAAAAAAj_Y/vm9aeCD6KWkcmKIfHd2BR0sYx4YG67VawCKgBGAs/s640/IMG_2413-01.jpeg" width="640" /></span></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;">I gained 3 kgs in 10 days only! FML <span style="background-color: white;">😢</span></span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;">I shall blame you, Penang food - for being too delicious! It was my first visit to Penang so naturally there's a long list of local delicacies I wanted to taste. Oh well, I guess 3 kgs is nothing compares to the unimaginable amount of food I had been nomming.</span><br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: small;">always window seat for me</span></td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">Planned everything on last minute since Mom has been feeling unwell the previous weeks that we decided to take her for a health check up in Penang and Singapore. First destination was Penang then we did a road trip to Cameron Highlands via Ipoh then to Kuala Lumpur before heading to Singapore as the final leg. After all who needs an apple a day if you could travel everyday to keep the doctor away, right? Never mind, I created that one, lol 😜</span></span><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-rtKG43RAGXA/WX3rdsm1YCI/AAAAAAAAj_Y/a-nShWMCeS0APAN0jfEg38VD5CrAXF59QCKgBGAs/s1600/IMG_20170717_203403_777.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-rtKG43RAGXA/WX3rdsm1YCI/AAAAAAAAj_Y/a-nShWMCeS0APAN0jfEg38VD5CrAXF59QCKgBGAs/s640/IMG_20170717_203403_777.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: small;">Western Road Christian Cemetary</span></td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;">I managed to do a little research before departing about must visit place in Penang. I instantly fell in love with the pictures of the Old Protestant Cemetery and the Western Road Christian Cemetery. Both are very old and have some artistically beautiful gravestones and statues. But there's one specific grave that I was looking for which has a dog sculpture on it. The story behind it made me tear up. It's the Malaysian version of Hachiko.</span></span><br />
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<span style="background-color: white; text-size-adjust: auto;"><span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;">Legend has it that the dog kept coming back to this grave after his beloved hooman passed away, and continued to stay at the grave. After the dog had died, symphatisers erected a statue of the dog and placed it on the grave. A loyal furry friend of Andrew who died on 7 July 1931 at the age 43 years old 😢</span></span></span><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-wEpO2oo9LRE/WX3rdntMoiI/AAAAAAAAj_Y/p0nN4kjJHhAkVaQsQGFi6gFjcef_CwN0ACKgBGAs/s1600/IMG_2210.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="426" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-wEpO2oo9LRE/WX3rdntMoiI/AAAAAAAAj_Y/p0nN4kjJHhAkVaQsQGFi6gFjcef_CwN0ACKgBGAs/s640/IMG_2210.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: small;">Reclining Buddha temple</span></td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;">Only a brief visit to both temple in Pulau Tikus which are <span style="background-color: white;"><span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;">Dhammikarama Burmese Temple and </span></span><span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="background-color: white;">Wat Chayamangkalaram is a Thai Temple famous for its large </span><span style="background-color: white;">Reclining Buddha. Too bad I couldn't really explore both temples because it was nearly the closing time.</span></span></span></span><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-6X_99cwEJmU/WX3rdgLkxyI/AAAAAAAAj_Y/igSDjS__S6garnzQZ7FRiFW8vQRd5u1QwCKgBGAs/s1600/IMG_2124.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1068" data-original-width="1600" height="426" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-6X_99cwEJmU/WX3rdgLkxyI/AAAAAAAAj_Y/igSDjS__S6garnzQZ7FRiFW8vQRd5u1QwCKgBGAs/s640/IMG_2124.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: small;">best place to eat like a local</span></td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;">Eat where the locals eat. I couldn't be happier to meet Mr. Kim, our new local friend in Penang. Upon finding out that my family are a huge fans of food, he steered his car to this eatery on a narrow street in the heart of Georgetown. I wouldn't be able to find this place myself! There's a group of stalls that serve some authentic Penang food such as Lam Mee, Wonton Mee, Char Kway Teoy, Sui Kow and else. It's good to mingle with the locals since I honestly think the people in Penang are generally more friendly than in KL. They would casually greet me and ask which nationality I am. Some of them were curious because I don't look Chinese nor Indonesian enough. One of them even thought that I'm an American. Whatttt! Perhaps it's my hair colour or my physique, lol!</span></span><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-No7_pH_VbcI/WX3rduk-wII/AAAAAAAAj_Y/sHjTAW56X6UUOs95EIhug7lBGCmHFRYNwCKgBGAs/s1600/IMG_20170720_212007_451.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1280" height="640" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-No7_pH_VbcI/WX3rduk-wII/AAAAAAAAj_Y/sHjTAW56X6UUOs95EIhug7lBGCmHFRYNwCKgBGAs/s640/IMG_20170720_212007_451.jpg" width="512" /></span></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: small;">Wonderfood Museum</span></td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;">If you are a food lover like me, the Wonderfood Museum is a must visit while in Penang. Not only there's numerous of gigantic-but-oh-look-so-real food replicas to take picture with, visitors can also learn the history of Malaysian food. It's fun and educational at the same time! In some parts of the museum, I was stunned and came to realise that our eating habits may have huge impact on the environment and wildlife. Such as the cruelty of shark hunting for the shark fin soup, etc. </span></span><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-FkFA_1_v0NI/WX3rdnO9MAI/AAAAAAAAj_Y/htXTgPgXyW4h74aeiZcLoJHa_3Lq2U-CgCKgBGAs/s1600/Penang-food-01.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="426" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-FkFA_1_v0NI/WX3rdnO9MAI/AAAAAAAAj_Y/htXTgPgXyW4h74aeiZcLoJHa_3Lq2U-CgCKgBGAs/s640/Penang-food-01.jpeg" width="640" /></span></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: small;">Penang delicacies, so sooo yummy!</span></td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;">Only few from tons of food I got to taste. And of course 3 days in Penang is not enough, I barely scratch the surface! There are more food I'd like to try but my tummy couldn't take it anymore, lol. <span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="background-color: white;">I loved almost all the food I tasted specially Lam Mee, Prawn Mee, Wonton Mee, Ai Yu Bing Jelly dessert and the local Black Thorn durian.</span><span class="Apple-converted-space"> Oh! And the Chinese pastry in Ming Xiang Tai is soooo heavenly. I regret it now that I didn't buy more Trishaw Egg Tart and Ko-Cha Siew Pao before leaving Penang. Boohooo </span></span><span style="background-color: white;">😢</span></span></span><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_T_GnkKhQdjpzmZB3nz79aTv5X0QG0cl57A9iH-KhrOSWGfkPDgj0FUQMPQArCIVd3d2EUzpzh3SvY6tPdlNsjvF5W9eJ-TdbJBYsnomGwLynJbNN3ZcdGlBfR-CND_bVdVabOmDK-b9U/s1600/IMG_2234-01.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1199" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_T_GnkKhQdjpzmZB3nz79aTv5X0QG0cl57A9iH-KhrOSWGfkPDgj0FUQMPQArCIVd3d2EUzpzh3SvY6tPdlNsjvF5W9eJ-TdbJBYsnomGwLynJbNN3ZcdGlBfR-CND_bVdVabOmDK-b9U/s640/IMG_2234-01.jpeg" width="478" /></span></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: small;">heritage trishaw ride</span></td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;">I wanted to tell you that the 1 hour heritage trishaw ride was an awesome experience, unfortunately the heat was way too harsh for me. It was so soooo hot that it felt like I was being burnt alive (got some serious sunburn after). If you don't suffer heat intolerance like me, I'm pretty sure you would love the trishaw ride. The route passed by the heritage part of Penang including several stops at the famous Penang street arts, Chew Jetty and bakery shop.</span></span><br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: small;">St. Anne church</span></td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-m56TmVTkwyk/WX3rdoMQ-JI/AAAAAAAAj_Y/b0Xut521Ik0JosTP2sFwWfceFU7ocpJ4QCKgBGAs/s1600/IMG_2295.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1201" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-m56TmVTkwyk/WX3rdoMQ-JI/AAAAAAAAj_Y/b0Xut521Ik0JosTP2sFwWfceFU7ocpJ4QCKgBGAs/s640/IMG_2295.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: small;">my super awesome new friend, Mr. Kim</span></td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;">Anyway special shout out to Mr. Kim who had been really helpful to accommodate our interests. He even took us to durian farm where we tasted probably the best durian in our life! He knows Penang so well, inside out and will give you some honest recommendation about which places are the best to visit and to avoid tourist traps. </span>If you ever plan to visit Penang, do look for Mr. Kim and you may rest assured that you will love your trip so much. You can contact him through <a href="https://www.facebook.com/penangtaxiservice/" target="_blank">Penang Taxi Service</a>. You're welcome! 😁</span><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-LvWaRSTDbrQ/WX3rdsSSKpI/AAAAAAAAj_Y/Eg7TTSKDb_YmbhBVsBgnsDQv_3ibgvZlQCKgBGAs/s1600/P_20170717_143237_vHDR_On-01-01.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1067" height="640" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-LvWaRSTDbrQ/WX3rdsSSKpI/AAAAAAAAj_Y/Eg7TTSKDb_YmbhBVsBgnsDQv_3ibgvZlQCKgBGAs/s640/P_20170717_143237_vHDR_On-01-01.jpeg" width="425" /></span></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: small;">durian farm</span></td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-DnMropDDoDU/WX3rdmuTz8I/AAAAAAAAj_Y/4hDBqGv0ZI0veHM-F7kQNNCY5e4zoPMxgCKgBGAs/s1600/P_20170718_125739_vHDR_On-01-01.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1068" data-original-width="1600" height="426" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-DnMropDDoDU/WX3rdmuTz8I/AAAAAAAAj_Y/4hDBqGv0ZI0veHM-F7kQNNCY5e4zoPMxgCKgBGAs/s640/P_20170718_125739_vHDR_On-01-01.jpeg" width="640" /></span></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: small;">crossing the Penang bridge</span></td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-hDCrKkF5E4g/WX3rdmi33bI/AAAAAAAAj_Y/eGfckmv48OEu2bOqzawIM244DSz1_hD7wCKgBGAs/s1600/IMG_2452.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="426" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-hDCrKkF5E4g/WX3rdmi33bI/AAAAAAAAj_Y/eGfckmv48OEu2bOqzawIM244DSz1_hD7wCKgBGAs/s640/IMG_2452.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: small;">Kek Lok Tong temple in Ipoh</span></td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;">On the way to Cameron Highlands, we had a lunch stop in Ipoh city for their famous Bean Sprout Chicken aka Taugeh Chicken. Also had some takeaway of Ipoh's Salt Baked Chicken which had a long queue in front of the vendor. Since we already visited the Kek Lok Si temple in Penang, Mr. Tan, our chauffeur suggested us to visit Kek Lok Tong temple in Ipoh. Didn't regret it at all because the limestone cave tempe is sooo pretty!</span></span><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-eDMPENEzUys/WX3rdhcZ_MI/AAAAAAAAj_Y/Bu9dFKW3KGcW6L1MM_b6za7E2spWecRjgCKgBGAs/s1600/IMG_2490-01.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="426" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-eDMPENEzUys/WX3rdhcZ_MI/AAAAAAAAj_Y/Bu9dFKW3KGcW6L1MM_b6za7E2spWecRjgCKgBGAs/s640/IMG_2490-01.jpeg" width="640" /></span></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: small;">the Lakehouse in Cameron Highlands</span></td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-myBUU7bFJJI/WX3rdnY3TiI/AAAAAAAAj_Y/LagmQb6j47QObqNxXe8rqa1oky_0R2uZQCKgBGAs/s1600/IMG_20170726_210854_007.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="426" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-myBUU7bFJJI/WX3rdnY3TiI/AAAAAAAAj_Y/LagmQb6j47QObqNxXe8rqa1oky_0R2uZQCKgBGAs/s640/IMG_20170726_210854_007.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: small;">Putrajaya, Kuala Lumpur</span></td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-pJV4ZXKMu3E/WX3rdi-QazI/AAAAAAAAj_Y/GP9XAaaoyl04KI2vHuDZjgFJsjYL668gQCKgBGAs/s1600/P_20170723_115235_vHDR_On-01.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="426" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-pJV4ZXKMu3E/WX3rdi-QazI/AAAAAAAAj_Y/GP9XAaaoyl04KI2vHuDZjgFJsjYL668gQCKgBGAs/s640/P_20170723_115235_vHDR_On-01.jpeg" width="640" /></span></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: small;">solitaire class bus </span></td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;">It's been ages since the last time I went for a road trip and border crossing between Malaysia and Singapore. Probably more than 15 years ago. Out of curiosity I thought I would give it another shot and see how it looks like nowadays. Booked T<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="background-color: white;">ranstar First Class Solitaire, the Ultimate 18 individual seater double decker </span><span style="background-color: white;">coach</span></span> with the massage couch, tray table, tv and all. A bit dated but comfortable nonetheless. It was a pleasant trip until we arrive in Singapore border and had to face a crazy long immigration queues. Took us more than 2 hours to get through. So lucky the bus was still waiting for us. Phew! </span></span><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ekK5y2PJcmI/WX3rduo6MKI/AAAAAAAAj_Y/O0vYorCu5JUjQyQRh19ayR6qalJ6UEWxQCKgBGAs/s1600/P_20170723_151322_vHDR_On-01.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1068" height="640" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ekK5y2PJcmI/WX3rduo6MKI/AAAAAAAAj_Y/O0vYorCu5JUjQyQRh19ayR6qalJ6UEWxQCKgBGAs/s640/P_20170723_151322_vHDR_On-01.jpeg" width="426" /></span></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: small;">front seat for me, yay!</span></td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-TeTYAis-LNY/WX3rdrtbADI/AAAAAAAAj_Y/zWdMSaCDSbksWEqgf7Rv80bJJ97Unm8jgCKgBGAs/s1600/P_20170723_161330_vHDR_On-01.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1201" height="640" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-TeTYAis-LNY/WX3rdrtbADI/AAAAAAAAj_Y/zWdMSaCDSbksWEqgf7Rv80bJJ97Unm8jgCKgBGAs/s640/P_20170723_161330_vHDR_On-01.jpeg" width="480" /></span></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: small;">Singapore!</span></td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-zcqfUmD6coQ/WX3rduRZt8I/AAAAAAAAj_Y/3lDzzYxntSoijTlLHHztvU6A_hiq-al9ACKgBGAs/s1600/singapore.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="640" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-zcqfUmD6coQ/WX3rduRZt8I/AAAAAAAAj_Y/3lDzzYxntSoijTlLHHztvU6A_hiq-al9ACKgBGAs/s640/singapore.jpg" width="480" /></span></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: small;">cute yet sinful pastries </span></td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;">Spent my 2 days in Singapore mostly in the hospital but still managed to stuff myself silly with all those pretty and scrumptious patisserie from Tiong Bahru Bakery and Chateraise. I'm back home now and have to endure physical tortures from my personal trainer at gym to shed all those excess fat I gained. God, please have mercy on meeee! 😭😭😭</span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;">PS: I'll be back soon and write more blog post when this soreness of muscle has subdued a bit. Tchusss!</span></span>Debbzie Leksonohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11633293406090733531noreply@blogger.com10tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1006989774341308826.post-39070566693185541902017-06-24T11:00:00.000+08:002017-06-24T11:16:41.290+08:00Indonesia: Malang Night Paradise - Lampion & Dinosaurus Park<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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*This blog post is written both in Bahasa Indonesia and English<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiIapqsjpxWXmARBIH3ng_nvK9X-ZA63AGTBVvM9huhmbh8TpgSrOqkMhPXiz59p3h0WPDeTdghYZnB07PghX6X7vd_Qea0RhjzFu7hRyRBBc2ZFg0CjVl6mYvsjWEId-M5ORDR4l7hqytp/s1600/Malang+Night+Paradise5.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="666" data-original-width="1000" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiIapqsjpxWXmARBIH3ng_nvK9X-ZA63AGTBVvM9huhmbh8TpgSrOqkMhPXiz59p3h0WPDeTdghYZnB07PghX6X7vd_Qea0RhjzFu7hRyRBBc2ZFg0CjVl6mYvsjWEId-M5ORDR4l7hqytp/s640/Malang+Night+Paradise5.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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Newest attraction in my hometown Malang, East Java! Malang Night Paradise, the Lampion & Dinosaurs Park has just opened a few days ago. On 19th June 2017 to be exact. I was excited to be invited to explore it one day before the opening day. With only a few people there, I danced around happily while taking pictures (yeah! sometimes I don't even remember my age and behave like a 5 years old girl :p ). For you who's been following my <a href="https://www.instagram.com/debbzie_leksono" target="_blank">Instagram</a> might have watched tons of videos I shared live on Instastory at that night.<br />
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~**~**~**~<br />
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<i>Taman hiburan malam terbaru di kota kelahiran saya di Malang, Jawa Timur! Malang Night Paradise, Lampion & Dinosaurs Park baru saja dibuka beberapa hari lalu. Tepatnya pada tanggal 19 Juni 2017. Saya senang sekali saat diundang untuk bermain di taman ini sehari sebelum dibuka untuk publik. Hanya beberapa orang pengunjung saat itu, saya pun menari-nari kegirangan sambil memotret (iyah! kadang saya memang lupa umur dan bertingkah layaknya anak umur 5 tahun :p ). Bagi yang mengikuti akun <a href="https://www.instagram.com/debbzie_leksono/" target="_blank">Instagram</a> saya mungkin sudah nonton, kan, video-video yang saya unggah langsung di Instastory malam itu. </i><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjETVD4Ayr1Xdkeg-mAHXoN3rNpAyD954oUAIO8JEgID2MbKjGdC8tMa1qhOxirXCi5aJjA3gaGXg3XqTjrej0V4zv04t7KI2q3HvmgbbYQB_fs69NYIel9sevTye1QwrSzdt6FWOn68F8W/s1600/Malang+Night+Paradise8.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="666" data-original-width="1000" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjETVD4Ayr1Xdkeg-mAHXoN3rNpAyD954oUAIO8JEgID2MbKjGdC8tMa1qhOxirXCi5aJjA3gaGXg3XqTjrej0V4zv04t7KI2q3HvmgbbYQB_fs69NYIel9sevTye1QwrSzdt6FWOn68F8W/s640/Malang+Night+Paradise8.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Welcome to the fantasy world!</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgnrqKkN6aKJsj2Wip2ck023KbBCfeUMw5jgskZN5ZrBYfPRquPp0yGwm_FJ2RhPtWRLut75ffoj879e0ZmuqFSOTjWXv5PkdlsrRZ0DFzqhPU-siDN-y8iD3bLA6jfNnYYdWux859lCeQ0/s1600/Malang+Night+Paradise1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="666" data-original-width="1000" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgnrqKkN6aKJsj2Wip2ck023KbBCfeUMw5jgskZN5ZrBYfPRquPp0yGwm_FJ2RhPtWRLut75ffoj879e0ZmuqFSOTjWXv5PkdlsrRZ0DFzqhPU-siDN-y8iD3bLA6jfNnYYdWux859lCeQ0/s640/Malang+Night+Paradise1.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">plenty of beautiful photo spots!</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/--AyFVvm5pCQ/WUlp03kmGsI/AAAAAAAAhqc/42dKHipM_CwsE3yJEpD82gILkymRvNenwCKgBGAs/s1600/Malang%2BNight%2BParadise2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="666" data-original-width="1000" height="426" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/--AyFVvm5pCQ/WUlp03kmGsI/AAAAAAAAhqc/42dKHipM_CwsE3yJEpD82gILkymRvNenwCKgBGAs/s640/Malang%2BNight%2BParadise2.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">colourful water fountain</td></tr>
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The first thing I saw upon walking into the lampion park was the Dancing Fountain. The water splashing high and low then spinning like it was doing some kind of dance while the shades changing from blue to green to red continuously. Really pretty! The park is occupied with lampions in various designs and a million of LED flowers which are arranged beautifully. Personally I love the brightly illuminated peacock and swans that radiates vibrant colour. Other than that, there's also panda, mushroom, bunnies and many more. I couldn't stop taking pictures of them! Glad I brought an extra camera battery with me. There's abundant great photo spots.<br />
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~**~**~**~<br />
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<i>Saat pertama masuk taman ini, sebuah air mancur menyambut saya. Airnya tersembur tinggi dan rendah dan meliuk seperti sedang menari. Sedangkan warnanya berubah-ubah dari biru ke hijau lalu merah bergantian. Cantik sekali! Taman ini dipenuhi lampion dengan berbagai model dan sejuta bunga LED yang ditata secara apik. Secara pribadi saya sangat menyukai lampion burung merak dan angsa yang memancarkan warna cerah. Selain itu ada juga lampion panda, jamur, kelinci dan lain sebagainya. Kamera saya bekerja keras malam itu karena saya ingin memotret semuanya! Untungnya saya membawa sebuah baterai kamera cadangan karena banyak sekali spot foto yang menarik.</i><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-2b81kWsPEGc/WUlp02Y_9cI/AAAAAAAAhqc/4SOYi_IqZTU2JhOJrg54dT2H9sOKIlIFgCKgBGAs/s1600/Malang%2BNight%2BParadise3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="666" data-original-width="1000" height="426" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-2b81kWsPEGc/WUlp02Y_9cI/AAAAAAAAhqc/4SOYi_IqZTU2JhOJrg54dT2H9sOKIlIFgCKgBGAs/s640/Malang%2BNight%2BParadise3.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">beautiful lampions</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgBac9QuNglTHY6F1EtZKZ73MdlwBiap3yFBd82SIjuTWVD_YRBpBLK43wm1jYYWiC4QKCbAPoKp1ARKe4y9BOgCKJ9HbrbIqfRLtd4HOJIzRR3tQajvD4SY51kWVzlB7ivP-lSWAfa_Jdf/s1600/Malang+Night+Paradise6.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="666" data-original-width="1000" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgBac9QuNglTHY6F1EtZKZ73MdlwBiap3yFBd82SIjuTWVD_YRBpBLK43wm1jYYWiC4QKCbAPoKp1ARKe4y9BOgCKJ9HbrbIqfRLtd4HOJIzRR3tQajvD4SY51kWVzlB7ivP-lSWAfa_Jdf/s640/Malang+Night+Paradise6.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Malang Night Paradise</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-eqOJjC6L4bM/WUlp07dEjpI/AAAAAAAAhqc/LV7j87Qtdb813Ilut0Xrih6iVQk-g3CZgCKgBGAs/s1600/Malang%2BNight%2BParadise.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="666" data-original-width="1000" height="426" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-eqOJjC6L4bM/WUlp07dEjpI/AAAAAAAAhqc/LV7j87Qtdb813Ilut0Xrih6iVQk-g3CZgCKgBGAs/s640/Malang%2BNight%2BParadise.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Panda family</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhNpKDozIK4PSlq0SkNFCCRXCDdgzyCf15EDJB6SfWyoR7CLveMu713UtxDTef7vcpCkRm1zM3jmTgYkHEl1H0aukojbs-BaP7idNZf8HjaYf5UkoYH1PwkS4vR40dT49hLw7q46pNnJfa4/s1600/www.GIFCreator.me_Qur8Jb.gif" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1000" data-original-width="667" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhNpKDozIK4PSlq0SkNFCCRXCDdgzyCf15EDJB6SfWyoR7CLveMu713UtxDTef7vcpCkRm1zM3jmTgYkHEl1H0aukojbs-BaP7idNZf8HjaYf5UkoYH1PwkS4vR40dT49hLw7q46pNnJfa4/s640/www.GIFCreator.me_Qur8Jb.gif" width="426" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Tunnel of Lights</td></tr>
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Unfortunately the Smurf Village was undergoing a bit maintenance on the pre-opening night so I didn't get to see it. Fret not! The Smurfs are now ready to do some selfie with you. Move forward to my favourite part, shall we? It's the Disco Tunnel! That's how I call it even though the name is actually Tunnel of Lights. But I think disco tunnel suits it better because the row of lights dance in sync with the music and it made me want to move my body too. Yeah yeah yeah! Isn't it the coolest tunnel ever? Walking through this tunnel also felt like walking inside a time machine. Because as soon as I made it to the other end, I was suddenly surrounded by a jungle inhabited by dinosaurs! *dramatic back sound effect*<br />
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~**~**~**~<br />
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<i>Sayang sekali, lho, Desa Smurf malam itu masih dalam tahap penyelesaian jadi saya belum bisa melihatnya. Tapi jangan khawatir karena sekarang para Smurf itu sudah siap untuk menemani kalian berswafoto. Yuk, jalan lagi sampai ke bagian paling favorit saya di taman ini. Nama sebenarnya adalah Terowongan Lampu, sih. Tapi saya lebih suka memberi nama Terowongan Disko. Karena kelap kelip lampu yang seirama dengan irama musik yang mengalun. Saya pun jadi ingin ikut menari. Yeah yeah yeah! Keren sekali, kan? Berjalan di dalam terowongan ini juga terasa seperti melewati sebuah mesin waktu. Bagaimana tidak? Sesampai di ujungnya, tahu-tahu saya sudah berada di tengah hutan yang dihuni banyak dinosaurus!</i><br />
<i>*instrumen menegangkan mengalun*</i><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-DBinK-Wl-DA/WUlp00DXzrI/AAAAAAAAhqc/97Egcf4vn_gJOpKKINo5esuRcfdvPGs3QCKgBGAs/s1600/Malang%2BNight%2BParadise9.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="666" data-original-width="1000" height="426" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-DBinK-Wl-DA/WUlp00DXzrI/AAAAAAAAhqc/97Egcf4vn_gJOpKKINo5esuRcfdvPGs3QCKgBGAs/s640/Malang%2BNight%2BParadise9.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"> run for your life!</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-tESBSWKVjJE/WUlp06Thf2I/AAAAAAAAhqc/x5RTsZ90vgQmnlOlnzmDOTFFAYDUL_6HACKgBGAs/s1600/Malang%2BNight%2BParadise15.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="666" data-original-width="1000" height="426" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-tESBSWKVjJE/WUlp06Thf2I/AAAAAAAAhqc/x5RTsZ90vgQmnlOlnzmDOTFFAYDUL_6HACKgBGAs/s640/Malang%2BNight%2BParadise15.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Triceratop</td></tr>
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I slowed down my steps as I walked through the dimly lighted jungle. The mysterious ambiance made me feel like I was one of the casts in Jurassic Park movie. As I reached a dark corner, suddenly I heard a loud deep growl above me. I looked up and saw as set of sharp teeth ready to rip my head. Thankfully it wasn't a real Spinosaurus, one of the largest meat eating dinosaur ever. I walked further down and meet around ten other dinosaur species such as T-rex, Triceratop, Brontosaurus, Raptors, Parasaurolophus, Ankylosaurus, Pteranodon with height from 6 metres to 13 metres. Each dinosaurs has realistic movement and sound. Pretty awesome replica I might say. I super love the adventure that I circled back to the entrance and did the route all over again :p<br />
<br />
~**~**~**~<br />
<br />
<i>Pelan-pelan saya berjalan menyusuri hutan minim cahaya itu. Suasana yang mencekam membuat saya merasa sebagai salah satu aktris dalam film Jurassic Park. Sampai di satu pojok yang gelap, tiba-tiba terdengar suara geraman berat dari arah atas. Saya pun mendongak dan kaget melihat deretan gigi setajam pisau yang siap mengoyak kepala saya. Untungnya, sih, bukan Spinosaurus yang asli. Itu kan salah satu dinosaurus pemakan daging terbesar. Hiiii, amit-amit! Melanjutkan rute hutan ini lebih jauh, saya bertemu sekitar sepuluh macam dinosaurus yang lain seperti T-rex, Triceratop, Brontosaurus, Raptors, Parasaurolophus, Ankylosaurus, Pteranodon. Dengan tinggi bervariasi dari 6 meter hingga 13 meter. Setiap dinosarus dapat bergerak dan bersuara hampir mirip dengan aslinya. Keren! Saya sangat menikmati petualangan itu sampai sampai memutar kembali ke pintu masuk dan mengulang dari awal lagi :p</i><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-KqeXWgmIWsE/WUlp03B8I9I/AAAAAAAAhqc/W6noWO5nPdcdLXGuEC4aLxwfgdf1t6FFgCKgBGAs/s1600/Malang%2BNight%2BParadise10.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="666" data-original-width="1000" height="426" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-KqeXWgmIWsE/WUlp03B8I9I/AAAAAAAAhqc/W6noWO5nPdcdLXGuEC4aLxwfgdf1t6FFgCKgBGAs/s640/Malang%2BNight%2BParadise10.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Ankylosaurus</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-vEwCktHph_M/WUlp056ZpEI/AAAAAAAAhqc/mfONmTL-K5w3kaLhkjabRvCBwsjeyzrLACKgBGAs/s1600/Malang%2BNight%2BParadise7.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="426" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-vEwCktHph_M/WUlp056ZpEI/AAAAAAAAhqc/mfONmTL-K5w3kaLhkjabRvCBwsjeyzrLACKgBGAs/s640/Malang%2BNight%2BParadise7.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Raptors</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ALd90RAtEdY/WUlp032HSGI/AAAAAAAAhqc/4wF06n_v2JUxNvb3q3-KP_EFjnHScgRdgCKgBGAs/s1600/Malang%2BNight%2BParadise11.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="666" data-original-width="1000" height="426" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ALd90RAtEdY/WUlp032HSGI/AAAAAAAAhqc/4wF06n_v2JUxNvb3q3-KP_EFjnHScgRdgCKgBGAs/s640/Malang%2BNight%2BParadise11.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Tyrannosaurus </td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Z8851aXHgBQ/WUlp0w0PIII/AAAAAAAAhqc/IG0lDb9qwqYgVDVRTN3y_Q07IapBZhaXgCKgBGAs/s1600/Malang%2BNight%2BParadise12.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="666" data-original-width="1000" height="426" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Z8851aXHgBQ/WUlp0w0PIII/AAAAAAAAhqc/IG0lDb9qwqYgVDVRTN3y_Q07IapBZhaXgCKgBGAs/s640/Malang%2BNight%2BParadise12.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Paleontology workshop!</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Ar3ANE4ph0M/WUlp0w4QliI/AAAAAAAAhqc/N-lfncu3JyAvtIS76WpUaLYILbmyFzK9ACKgBGAs/s1600/Malang%2BNight%2BParadise14.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="667" data-original-width="1000" height="426" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Ar3ANE4ph0M/WUlp0w4QliI/AAAAAAAAhqc/N-lfncu3JyAvtIS76WpUaLYILbmyFzK9ACKgBGAs/s640/Malang%2BNight%2BParadise14.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">some tools to work with</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Xvvqhj2j2hs/WUlp09aTndI/AAAAAAAAhqc/ZccGiwBGsFQqXCr-5Ykkqo2tv7-0LaeQQCKgBGAs/s1600/Malang%2BNight%2BParadise18.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="666" data-original-width="1000" height="426" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Xvvqhj2j2hs/WUlp09aTndI/AAAAAAAAhqc/ZccGiwBGsFQqXCr-5Ykkqo2tv7-0LaeQQCKgBGAs/s640/Malang%2BNight%2BParadise18.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">kids excursion</td></tr>
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At the end of the jungle route I saw some cargo containers with different kinds of tools arranged neatly. Turned out it's the kids activities area. I was told that there will be some excursion for the kids such as digging sites, Dino Science Centre and Dino rides. How fun! I want to join them too! There's also a food court area for visitors to take a rest or to nibble assorted of snacks. Praying room is also provided in this area.<br />
<br />
~**~**~**~<br />
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<i>Di penghujung Taman Dinosaurus, saya melihat beberapa kontainer kargo yang berisi berbagai macam alat. Ternyata di area kegiatan anak tersebut terdapat beberapa aktifitas seperti lokasi penggalian fosil, Pusat Sains Dinosaurus, dan wahana menunggang dinosaurus. Seru sekali, ya! Saya juga ingin ikut, lho! Di area food court, pengunjung bisa rehat sejenak sambil mencicipi berbagai makanan yang merupakan hasil kerjasama dengan UKM. Tersedia juga sebuah mushola di area ini.</i><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-UBxZUddr4BE/WUlp09l32qI/AAAAAAAAhqc/9ozYjKQtWBQRymnrvsUG9tG4t0W3I2ZeQCKgBGAs/s1600/IMG_1988.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="426" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-UBxZUddr4BE/WUlp09l32qI/AAAAAAAAhqc/9ozYjKQtWBQRymnrvsUG9tG4t0W3I2ZeQCKgBGAs/s640/IMG_1988.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Mama Dino, please feed me!<br />
I really don't know what I was doing there :))</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-GI5m8gP0ylc/WUlp009r9TI/AAAAAAAAhqc/l9zLwTqNsggHiSOdqna4P08hG6Ytgpo1gCKgBGAs/s1600/Malang%2BNight%2BParadise4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="666" data-original-width="1000" height="426" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-GI5m8gP0ylc/WUlp009r9TI/AAAAAAAAhqc/l9zLwTqNsggHiSOdqna4P08hG6Ytgpo1gCKgBGAs/s640/Malang%2BNight%2BParadise4.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Malang Night Paradise</td></tr>
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Malang Night Paradise is a great new destination for your family and friends while visiting Malang. It's going to be listed on the hippest place in Malang and become a must visit holiday destination in Malang. The park can be most easily be enjoyed by any ages. Where's the location? It's actually a part of <a href="http://www.debbzie.com/2015/11/indonesia-hawai-waterpark-malang.html" target="_blank">Hawai Water Park</a> that I've reviewed before. Scroll down for the map. So what are you waiting for? Pack your bag and go now to have fun with your friends or family and be the first one to visit this wonderful park! If you need some info or recommendation in Malang, feel free to shoot a question or two . Cheers!<br />
<br />
~**~**~**~<br />
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<i>Malang Night Paradise bisa menjadi tujuan baru bagi kamu beserta keluarga dan teman saat belibur di Malang. Yakin, deh, tempat ini akan menjadi salah satu tempat paling hits di Malang dan menjadi tempat wisata yang wajib dikunjungi. Semua umur dan kalangan bisa menikmatinya. Jadi lokasinya di mana, nih? Mudah ditemukan, kok! Karena berada di lokasi yang sama dengan <a href="http://www.debbzie.com/2015/11/indonesia-hawai-waterpark-malang.html" target="_blank">Hawai Water Park</a> yang sudah pernah saya ulas sebelumnya. Tunggu apa lagi, sih? Buruan berkemas dan ajak teman atau keluarga dan menjadi yang pengunjung pertama di taman yang keren ini! Kalau kamu perlu informasi atau rekomendasi tentang Malang, jangan sungkan bertanya, ya. Cheers!</i><br />
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<b><span style="font-size: large;">Malang Night Paradise</span></b><br />
Graha Kencana Raya, Banjararum, Malang<br />
Opens everyday from 17.00 to 23.00<br />
Ticket Rp 25.000 (weekdays) & Rp 35.000 (weekends and holidays)<br />
Free admission for children with height under 85 cm.<br />
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<span id="goog_1376577628"></span><a href="https://www.blogger.com/"></a><span id="goog_1376577629"></span><br />
<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="450" src="https://www.google.com/maps/embed?pb=!1m18!1m12!1m3!1d3951.7279164730994!2d112.65606431405237!3d-7.923461994292377!2m3!1f0!2f0!3f0!3m2!1i1024!2i768!4f13.1!3m3!1m2!1s0x2dd62986638c712f%3A0x6f6ab564e7eda69d!2sHawai+Water+Park!5e0!3m2!1sen!2sid!4v1498034540371" style="border: 0;" width="600"></iframe>Debbzie Leksonohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11633293406090733531noreply@blogger.com20tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1006989774341308826.post-20118128410683550962017-06-14T08:30:00.000+08:002017-06-14T08:30:01.450+08:00Hua Hin: PlearnWan Eco Vintage Village<br />
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Shopaholic alert!<br />
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I super love night markets (okay, you may have heard this a thousand times already). While exploring Hua Hin I had a chance to visit a night-market-inspired shopping area. The name PlearnWan is derived from a combination of the English words, Play and Learn. Also in Thai words, Wan means yesterday. The initial concept is to bring back the retro atmosphere of Hua Hin in 1950s. As soon as I walked through the main entrance, I was welcomed by a yard-like with 2 storey wooden planks building on both side. There are several bridge that connects the both sides of the upper level. Every tiny ornaments are in classic retro theme. An atmosphere that contrasts with the modern city I was in some moments ago. It felt like I was flown by a time machine into the era when my grandmother was a mere teenager.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">PlearnWan Hua Hin</td></tr>
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For a while I was busy taking pictures of the surrounding before some adorable shops started to distract me. While I'm not crazy over expensive branded stuff, from time to time my heart melts when I see cute trinkets or hand-made traditional thingy at night markets. I would then started to have a conversation with myself, such as:<br />
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"Awww this is so cute! Sister would love this."<br />
"This one would definitely look good on Mom! Don't you think so? Yes, just buy it now."<br />
"Ohhhh these are the toys that Adrian (my nephew) has been looking for. He will be really happy!"<br />
"Wow I really love this hand-made shirts. I don't know who would suit this but I'll buy it anyway and decide later who to give it to"<br />
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- and so on and so on until my shopping bags get so full it could burst anytime. *sigh* This is why travelling with a small suitcase never works for me. I just love buying stuff and love feeding people. LOL.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">clock shop</td></tr>
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As I walked towards the other end, some flavours wafted up my nose tickling my senses. I knew I wasn't far from my kind of nirvana. Food vendors! Thailand's wonderful cuisine perfumes the air with the sweet, sour and spicy aromas overflowing the deck. A row of wooden traditional food carts lining on my right and a row of food stalls on the left side. Now, what to eat first?<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">a retro food stall</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Khanom Buang</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-4WYP2Mj3GYA/WS_m6AQQ8hI/AAAAAAAAges/9G3nyQzN-g4XWYQx2AQJMyClokToLM8CQCKgB/s1600/DSCF3449.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="640" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-4WYP2Mj3GYA/WS_m6AQQ8hI/AAAAAAAAges/9G3nyQzN-g4XWYQx2AQJMyClokToLM8CQCKgB/s640/DSCF3449.jpg" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">fried goodies!</td></tr>
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The list of Thai traditional food that were waiting to be savoured was endless. From Khanom Buang (the famous Thai crepe with meringue filling), Hoi Tod (fried mussel omelette), Mae Chud (steamed fish balls in spicy sauce), Thai roasted banana, Fried Chicken, Moo Ping ( pork satay), Khanom Krok (coconut cake) and a ton more. I'm fairly salivating right now while typing and imagining all these food :(<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-B2t3hNeIH3U/WS_m6L39xaI/AAAAAAAAges/kop6U2DqH34g7ZWo16dzq8VLHDQ_lrr8QCKgB/s1600/DSCF3451.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1068" data-original-width="1600" height="426" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-B2t3hNeIH3U/WS_m6L39xaI/AAAAAAAAges/kop6U2DqH34g7ZWo16dzq8VLHDQ_lrr8QCKgB/s640/DSCF3451.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">pork satay and pork sausage</td></tr>
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<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/--dNLDqilpKI/WS_m6DdnTxI/AAAAAAAAges/YnjU-tJHQdUJ3TJVZ4hqc_zYzhrO5aTpACKgB/s1600/DSCF3461-01.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1066" data-original-width="1600" height="426" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/--dNLDqilpKI/WS_m6DdnTxI/AAAAAAAAges/YnjU-tJHQdUJ3TJVZ4hqc_zYzhrO5aTpACKgB/s640/DSCF3461-01.jpeg" width="640" /></a></div>
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After sampling some (a lot!) of the traditional food, I went down to browse around more shops on ground floor. Uh oh! Wrong move! I started the 'this cute, that cute' again. Besides souvenirs, there's accessories, beach essentials, antique watches, Shabby Chic decoration, hand-made bags, mugs and only God knows what. There's certainly a little something for everyone. I even found a corner stall full of dog themed merchandise! So sorry to drain you, dear wallet. But we are doing this to help the local economy, y'know.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">great spot for taking pictures</td></tr>
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What I love about PlearnWan besides fulfilling my inner shopaholic and satisfying my (then) happy tummy; there's abundance of photo spots. Cute colourful vintagey decorations that reminds me of my grandmother's house. Also even though there were quite a lot of visitors, it's not as crowded as the night market where people need to jostle each other just to walk through.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Q_TAB7epQ2o/WS_m6G6N2uI/AAAAAAAAges/eoUmLc1C3W4Img5g6k5E_jQKCdYfiMkLQCKgB/s1600/DSCF3465-01.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="426" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Q_TAB7epQ2o/WS_m6G6N2uI/AAAAAAAAges/eoUmLc1C3W4Img5g6k5E_jQKCdYfiMkLQCKgB/s640/DSCF3465-01.jpeg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">back to the 50s</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-vxnQe05169w/WT1sk9KCdrI/AAAAAAAAhCk/YYBcKd5iXbE_7xZwo3v8c8g_HXZz7BHhQCLcB/s1600/piman2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="414" data-original-width="669" height="396" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-vxnQe05169w/WT1sk9KCdrI/AAAAAAAAhCk/YYBcKd5iXbE_7xZwo3v8c8g_HXZz7BHhQCLcB/s640/piman2.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Piman PlearnWan, picture from <a href="http://www.asiawebdirect.com/" target="_blank">http://www.asiawebdirect.com/</a></td></tr>
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When I posted a picture of PlearnWan on my <a href="https://www.instagram.com/debbzie_leksono/" target="_blank">Instagram</a>, someone commented that there's actually some rooms to rent on the upper floor. I googled right away and went ga-ga over the room interior! Every rooms have different design which are too cute it looks like a doll house, a vintage one of course. Dang! Have I known it earlier, I would have extended my stay in Hua Hin. Oh well I might as well save the best for next time, right :D<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-zAtQPIPmyVw/WS_m6BErjxI/AAAAAAAAges/J_CUU9flzVgX9ceAqV0sYw4XQ2JFP50AACKgB/s1600/IMG_20170427_071658_867-01.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="720" data-original-width="1080" height="426" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-zAtQPIPmyVw/WS_m6BErjxI/AAAAAAAAges/J_CUU9flzVgX9ceAqV0sYw4XQ2JFP50AACKgB/s640/IMG_20170427_071658_867-01.jpeg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">PlearnWan, Hua Hin</td></tr>
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I wish I had more time to spend at PlearnWan, unfortunately there was a dinner reservation waiting for us. With a heavy heart, heavy tummy and so much heavier shopping bag carrying all the items I bought, I bid goodbye to PlearnWan. I'll definitely bring my family to shop here on my next visit to Thailand.<br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><b>PlearnWan</b></span><br />
Open daily from 10am to midnight<br />
Pethkasem Road, between Hua Hin Soi 38 and 40<br />
(not far from Klai Kang Won Palace)<br />
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PS: the setting of this area (some of it) reminds me of Museum Angkut or the Transportation Museum that we had back in my home town Malang, Indonesia. Please do read my review '<a href="http://www.debbzie.com/2014/05/indonesia-museum-angkut-haven-for.html" target="_blank">A Haven For Vehicle Lovers</a>' and let me know what you think :D<br />
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<br />Debbzie Leksonohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11633293406090733531noreply@blogger.com37tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1006989774341308826.post-59949372421694489092017-05-11T11:30:00.000+08:002017-05-11T11:30:29.523+08:00Hua Hin: For Art's Sake 4D MuseumHua Hin, April 2017<br />
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<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-d6VjWB-qL6c/WRA2YE1osaI/AAAAAAAAfXY/paObFQIKeccBSo8nn6mTDY6o8lZudJDzACPcB/s1600/DSCF3236.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-d6VjWB-qL6c/WRA2YE1osaI/AAAAAAAAfXY/paObFQIKeccBSo8nn6mTDY6o8lZudJDzACPcB/s640/DSCF3236.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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When I was given the itinerary for #FamilyFunTrip by TAT, a visit to For Art's Sake 4D museum was probably the one I was looking forward the most. These past years I've seen many of 3D or 4D art museum popping out in various cities and yet I haven't really made some effort to visit one. Simply because I thought, "What's so exciting about taking pictures with some backdrop?" Boy, was I wrong! I had to eat my words because I actually was having so much fun during the visit.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-UdiCW1t_83Y/WRA2YGVfvhI/AAAAAAAAfXY/mUt6mFPPPqoHiZ23BhVvWBEeE1pLzhdxQCPcB/s1600/DSCF3245.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-UdiCW1t_83Y/WRA2YGVfvhI/AAAAAAAAfXY/mUt6mFPPPqoHiZ23BhVvWBEeE1pLzhdxQCPcB/s640/DSCF3245.jpg" width="478" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Ouch!</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Lfz3WopdBvA/WRA2YBt9qGI/AAAAAAAAfXY/agbPvoNOqAERol0aGCc6tA1j_qJnoTM2wCPcB/s1600/DSCF3239.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Lfz3WopdBvA/WRA2YBt9qGI/AAAAAAAAfXY/agbPvoNOqAERol0aGCc6tA1j_qJnoTM2wCPcB/s640/DSCF3239.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">documenting TAT trip</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhlygK7G2QAevJJt_5A7yi8xhNArdlI4zdG6RnA-6zrnDbPHhyThiAD1pA3E52XLkvFj1P2lSkqBPA7nPRS7jF3d1LvKmbzKbatHKNSaMGE4zN1yGndElejpoDzc2oxiCpLIjPhz53miB8t/s1600/Collage_Fotor1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhlygK7G2QAevJJt_5A7yi8xhNArdlI4zdG6RnA-6zrnDbPHhyThiAD1pA3E52XLkvFj1P2lSkqBPA7nPRS7jF3d1LvKmbzKbatHKNSaMGE4zN1yGndElejpoDzc2oxiCpLIjPhz53miB8t/s640/Collage_Fotor1.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">one arm handstand? easy! :p</td></tr>
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I don't usually like being photographed because I'm just naturally awkward in front of the camera. I think I can never pull the right pose or my face looks unflattering. (I can't believe myself for asking Google 'Why I look OK in the mirror but bad in photos?' just now, lol!) Alrighty, perhaps I'm just being too harsh on myself. Now, back to the 4D museum!<br />
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It surprised me that when I was sorting out pictures for this post. There's actually tons of my pictures in some poses I could never imagined myself being able to do. Well thanks to the friendly For Art's Sake staffs who were enthusiastic telling me how to pose or where is the perfect spot to take good pictures.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-dvF8LygB9_A/WRA2YCS3RDI/AAAAAAAAfXY/zmRrygrwCEgyNS7UmNZIWSW0VyhKCMBZgCPcB/s1600/DSCF3243.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-dvF8LygB9_A/WRA2YCS3RDI/AAAAAAAAfXY/zmRrygrwCEgyNS7UmNZIWSW0VyhKCMBZgCPcB/s640/DSCF3243.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Paper doll dress-up at Childhood Zone</td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-rxDnN1n_YMM/WRA2YKQ66AI/AAAAAAAAfXY/8DVXg-0LfdMWeRyKyXYlXsICsfVmOT_twCPcB/s1600/DSCF3248.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-rxDnN1n_YMM/WRA2YKQ66AI/AAAAAAAAfXY/8DVXg-0LfdMWeRyKyXYlXsICsfVmOT_twCPcB/s640/DSCF3248.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Hua Hin Zone</td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-whjePZPlh0c/WRAzPmi6ulI/AAAAAAAAfZM/mtqnN4Eo7mcnIwGdY1-mDFgpaUuIyZIAQCPcB/s1600/Collage_Fotor2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-whjePZPlh0c/WRAzPmi6ulI/AAAAAAAAfZM/mtqnN4Eo7mcnIwGdY1-mDFgpaUuIyZIAQCPcB/s640/Collage_Fotor2.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Horror Zone!</td></tr>
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Opened in 2014, For Art's Sake was the first 4D museum in Hua Hin. The artwork were painted by Thai artists and divided into some different zones such as Imagination Zone, Childhood Zone, Hua Hin Zone, Illusion Windows and last but not least, my favourite Horror Zone. I spent most of my time with my ghost friends and wanted to take pictures in all part of the Horror Zone. It wasn't easy to act scared when my face was all big grin and giggling and looked way too happy. So the staff asked me to whip my long hair front, covering my face and became a red headed ghost instead. Ahhhh that's easier! :))<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-vlA_4CwWDZ4/WRA2YOkmQPI/AAAAAAAAfXY/vlAoXxfl0dEQGqutrZs7MHn4exMZY_PgwCPcB/s1600/DSCF3257.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-vlA_4CwWDZ4/WRA2YOkmQPI/AAAAAAAAfXY/vlAoXxfl0dEQGqutrZs7MHn4exMZY_PgwCPcB/s640/DSCF3257.jpg" width="478" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Edy looked much convincing</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-6AxQkgdV86o/WRA2YFknj0I/AAAAAAAAfZQ/DRvrhWih8QQi3D7C4vRPMSEx2MB3QhGLwCPcB/s1600/DSCF3259.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-6AxQkgdV86o/WRA2YFknj0I/AAAAAAAAfZQ/DRvrhWih8QQi3D7C4vRPMSEx2MB3QhGLwCPcB/s640/DSCF3259.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">huge fail while attempting to look fearful </td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-iHLuUMO60Iw/WRA5yxOaS9I/AAAAAAAAfX0/tTY_RP410u4U3Nl74IVlidIQB2lv085LQCPcB/s1600/DSCF3274-01.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-iHLuUMO60Iw/WRA5yxOaS9I/AAAAAAAAfX0/tTY_RP410u4U3Nl74IVlidIQB2lv085LQCPcB/s640/DSCF3274-01.jpeg" width="426" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Sharena scored the best photo of course <3</td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-EFaxCgr1BnM/WRA2YGTCRXI/AAAAAAAAfXY/FMGuDqKLvssgnlACTuS46FF2crzoT57DgCPcB/s1600/DSCF3260.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-EFaxCgr1BnM/WRA2YGTCRXI/AAAAAAAAfXY/FMGuDqKLvssgnlACTuS46FF2crzoT57DgCPcB/s640/DSCF3260.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Japanese ghost</td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-kbdIjva9NTw/WRA2YHx3wHI/AAAAAAAAfXY/mGQ2XC8mhiQMo3sd2DCsCY7HGeR3gSgkgCPcB/s1600/DSCF3277.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-kbdIjva9NTw/WRA2YHx3wHI/AAAAAAAAfXY/mGQ2XC8mhiQMo3sd2DCsCY7HGeR3gSgkgCPcB/s640/DSCF3277.jpg" width="426" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Novy the pretty pixie </td></tr>
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I surely had a good portion of laughs while posing and taking pictures. Thanks to the air con for saving me from sweating buckets. It intrigued me how some paintings could create the illusions as if the objects were real and 'pop out'. They really are mind blowing optical illusions. Not only paintings, there's also some sculptures and art installations that visitors could <strike>play</strike> take picture with.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-_7xkQRqObWQ/WRA2YB_TG7I/AAAAAAAAfXY/40ZDjK94M3YoX1RtQ5lbMwBx4xll3XvogCPcB/s1600/DSCF3284.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-_7xkQRqObWQ/WRA2YB_TG7I/AAAAAAAAfXY/40ZDjK94M3YoX1RtQ5lbMwBx4xll3XvogCPcB/s640/DSCF3284.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">errr...a mutilated boyfriend? :p</td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-XB1taJth4Ks/WRA2YMBkAtI/AAAAAAAAfX8/g-rQHc0Yv1UYFfy4kkMlvQ2--J7jLY3TwCPcB/s1600/DSCF3288.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-XB1taJth4Ks/WRA2YMBkAtI/AAAAAAAAfX8/g-rQHc0Yv1UYFfy4kkMlvQ2--J7jLY3TwCPcB/s640/DSCF3288.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">now it's time to relax at Hua Hin beach :p</td></tr>
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Would I recommend this museum for a family holiday destination? Absolutely! For Art's Sake is a combination of art with a splash of fun elements and some smashing photo opportunities. This museum can be fun for all ages. Best to visit with a group of friends or family for some Instragram-worthy pictures.<br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><b>For Art's Sake</b></span><br />
22/141 Phetkasem Road, Hua Hin<br />
Prachuap Khiri Khan 77110<br />
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Opening hours: 10am - 8pm<br />
Admission fee: 300 THB for adults and 200 THB for childrenDebbzie Leksonohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11633293406090733531noreply@blogger.com12tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1006989774341308826.post-52953816912819398042017-05-04T16:31:00.000+08:002017-05-04T16:31:19.273+08:00Travel Updates: Hua Hin With TAT<br />
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Sa wad dee ka!<br />
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So yeah, I was just got back from Thailand again!. After exploring Chiang Mai and Chiang Rai area in February, this time I was invited by Tourism Authority of Thailand to experience some highlights in Hua Hin. I was happy to join the famtrip because I've never been to Hua Hin before. Yayyy! I always love the idea of exploring new destinations.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Siam Kempinski Bangkok</td></tr>
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Tourism Authority of Thailand launched a new campaign which named Family Fun Thailand. They invited participants from around the world to experience family fun activities in Phuket, Chiang Mai, Khao Yai and Hua Hin (for team Indonesia & team Australia New Zealand). Not only bloggers, they also invited media, journalist, travel agents and celebrities. Team Indonesia is a group of 4 travel agents, 1 media journalist from Kompas, 1 blogger and a celebrity family Ryan Delon, Sharena and their super cute son Ryshaka; accompanied by 2 personnel from TAT Indonesia.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">cooking class!</td></tr>
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After a very pleasant stay in Siam Kempinski Bangkok, the next day we hopped on our van and headed to Hua Hin which is only about 2,5 hours from Bangkok. Depending of the traffic of course. First activity, cooking workshop! We were taught how to make Kaotang or Thai traditional style rice crisps at Sukantha. Though we didn't make it from scratch, we were excited to garnish our own Kaotang and bake them. And not to forget, take picture of it and show it off on Instagram :p<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Camel Republic</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">smize, Alpaca...smize! :D</td></tr>
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Feeling famished after the cooking workshop, we had a lunch stop at 1000 Sook Food and Farm which has a very interesting architecture. They serve both Western and Thai food. There's a bunch of animals like ponies and rabbits for the children to play with. Unfortunately I didn't have enough time to explore the farm as it was time for us to visit Camel Republic.<br />
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Camel Republic is a combination of a mini zoo and a theme park. Not only camel, I also got the chance to interact with alpaca, sheep, flamingo, bunnies and various birds. My travel mates had fun trying some of the rides. One of them was Eagle zipline. Woohoo!<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Hua Hin night market</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">For Art's Sake 4D museum</td></tr>
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I've never knew that visiting a 4D museum would be so amusing. Specially when I enter the room full of characters from horror movies. Yessss, I felt home! I love horror movies so much and judging from my pictures above, my face expression is a huge fail. Instead of looking scared, I looked a bit too happy seeing the ghosts, lol. Next time I will definitely take my family and friends to visit this museum again and take tons of tricky pictures. Oh, by the way they use some special paint for the moon so it shines and looks real.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Vana Nava Water Jungle</td></tr>
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Asia's first water jungle! I gotta admit that I love the idea of their theme, water jungle. The trees saved me from the scorching heat while I was doing the inspection. First thing first, upon paying the entrance fee, visitors will get a RFID wristband. This wristband will make your time in the water park a lot more easier. Not only for getting in and out the park, visitors use this wristband to scan their locker and to purchase some food & beverages. No more hassle of bringing cash or wallet while having fun. One of the zone that attracted me the most was this surf simulator. Though it looks so easy peasy, I knew that I would look like a towel being tumbled inside a washing machine once I hop on the board. So, no thanks. I'd better saving everyone's time and energy by just taking picture from the terrace :p <br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">high tea at the Tea House, FM outlet</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Plearnwan</td></tr>
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I don't know how many times I already mentioned in this blog that I super love love love night markets! I did visit the Hua Hin night market in the previous day but Plearnwan was the one that blew my mind. I adore the vintage ambiance. When I walk through the rusty tin pieces and wooden planks, I couldn't help myself to think that I was flown by a time machine back to the 50's! Not until I found out that the Thai name itself means plearn (enjoy) and wan (yesteryears). Besides clothes and cute little trinkets, visitors are also spoiled by various Thai traditional snacks to nibble.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">art workshop. Can you spot my voodoo doll? </td></tr>
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On our third day in Hua Hin, we had an art workshop at Baan Sillapin artist village. I was quite nervous honestly. At school I've never scored good in painting. I would just pour a tin of paint on a paper, splash some colour here and there aaaand voila! I called it arts. Though I thought it didn't look that bad, my art teacher had always felt unhappy about my works. Oh well. Upon arriving at the artist village, we were allowed to choose either a plain doll, a canvas bag, a t-shirt or even a mask to paint. I chose a cat shape doll which later with my magic it was turned into a voodoo doll look alike, lol. Please stay tuned for more information about this artist village. I still have some blogpost coming up about this Family Fun Thailand trip *wink*<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">the Chocolate Factory</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Let's Sea beach-front restaurant</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">the Barai spa at Hyatt Regency</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">pretty spa room</td></tr>
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When you stay in Hyatt Regency Hua Hin, I'd suggest you not to miss a visit to their spectacular spa called the Barai. With a total area of almost 4 acres, it's considered one of the largest spa in Southeast Asia! The exotic and elegant architecture somehow reminds me of Morocco, Angkor Wat and India. So gutted that my schedule was so busy that I didn't get the chance to try their spa service. But there's always next time, right?<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Indonesian celebrities were being interviewed by Miss World Australia & Queen Elsa</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Team Indonesia! </td></tr>
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Back to Bangkok for the big event where all the participants and celebrity families from 7 different countries gather to share our experience. And to fit their new campaign Family Fun Thailand, the event was held in Siam Park City amusement & water park. How fun! I'm honoured to be able to meet Mrs. Juthaporn Rerngronasa, the Tourism Authority of Thailand Deputy Governor and also the gorgeous Miss World Australia, Madeline Cowe.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">private beach at Hyatt Regency</td></tr>
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Well that's basically my 6 days trip to Bangkok and Hua Hin in a nutshell. I am now working on my next piece about For Art's Sake 4D museum that I'm going to publish probably next week.<br />
Thanks so much TAT for giving me the opportunity and wonderful experience that I will treasure forever. Thanks Mrs. Ana and Miss Devi from TAT Indonesia, also Khun Montika and Khun Bew from TAT Thailand for your warm hospitality.<br />
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<br />Debbzie Leksonohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11633293406090733531noreply@blogger.com14tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1006989774341308826.post-36619386169088018132017-04-18T18:30:00.000+08:002017-04-18T18:30:37.341+08:00Switzerland: Küsse Aus Luzern<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">snowing on a Christmas eve</td></tr>
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Luzern will always hold a special place in my heart, simply because I used to called it home.<br />
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17 years ago, I boarded my first long haul flight heading to a new country in a continent I had never been to before. It was the first time ever I travelled alone without my family nor friends. It was my first time moving to a foreign place with no one I was familiar with and the language I could barely speak. It was when my solo adventures began. The period of a lot of firsts in my life. At that time I just wanted a new chapter after a frightening plane incident I experienced the previous year that shook my life. It caused me psychological scars and I started to have a severe phobia of flying and being enclosed in a small space...and the rest is history.<br />
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"Will I be okay? How will I cope when I miss my family?" Those questions kept playing on my mind when I cry silently during the 12 hours flight from Singapore to Zurich. At that era, the information I could gather from internet was limited thus I really had no idea what to expect. So I was surprised just how well I survived. Luzern welcomed me with a bright warm smile. This city has a relaxed atmosphere. There was always people approached me whenever I was lost or needed help. I began to fall in love with the city. I love the lovely weather. I love the scenery from my balcony which facing to Luzern lake with snowy mountains as a background. I love the quacking noises of ducks and swans by the lake that greeted me every afternoon when I brought a huge loaf of bread for them. I started to make friends at school and dormitory. After a while I called Luzern as my home. Every time I sent letters and postcards for my friends and family in Indonesia, I'd wrote down "küsse aus Luzern" which means kisses from Luzern.<br />
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Long story short I was ecstatic when my family asked me to arrange a Christmas holiday to Switzerland two years earlier. I've missed Luzern too much. I couldn't wait to see how the city look like after I left ages ago. Unfortunately it was snowing really really hard throughout the week that I had to cancel most of my itineraries. I stayed warm in my hotel room most of the time. Here's some pictures I managed to snap during my stay. Decided to edit my pictures different from my usual style which is mostly vibrant. If you've seen my instagram account, you would have notice that I love playing with colour. As far I remember I hardly shared black & white picture before. I guess some colourless pictures for a change would be interesting so I played a bit on my phone using Snapseed app.<br />
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Please let me know your thoughts, okie? :)<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-_lUBzYSHUZI/WPOUo5-SeWI/AAAAAAAAePU/wjIRO4axCyYg8RDVQQQAW_jSdMsld0VCgCPcB/s1600/IMG_8477-01.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-_lUBzYSHUZI/WPOUo5-SeWI/AAAAAAAAePU/wjIRO4axCyYg8RDVQQQAW_jSdMsld0VCgCPcB/s640/IMG_8477-01.jpeg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Kapelbrücke</td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-nxxklpBQsAg/WPOUo1Fj6xI/AAAAAAAAeLY/7vYKpRjakSA7dJI8NigEENb3aYqYvXMhQCPcB/s1600/P_20141229_194919_LL-01.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-nxxklpBQsAg/WPOUo1Fj6xI/AAAAAAAAeLY/7vYKpRjakSA7dJI8NigEENb3aYqYvXMhQCPcB/s640/P_20141229_194919_LL-01.jpeg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Kapelbrücke</td></tr>
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-PW4dJ2f1a2s/WPOUo-psQgI/AAAAAAAAeLY/PB45Nx2BdhQdAluefV_KdPi8w4YNyCqcwCPcB/s1600/IMG_2411-01.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-PW4dJ2f1a2s/WPOUo-psQgI/AAAAAAAAeLY/PB45Nx2BdhQdAluefV_KdPi8w4YNyCqcwCPcB/s640/IMG_2411-01.jpeg" width="480" /></a></div>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjmiU6fE3tFUFa7zTERoxmoVR7zpdnoKHlVtrRO5tkoDjdjr6hshnIuYTXv-God7QXJiKPAQajdkqmpnLJwCmnjU59VeQ-VhTOuCxbTwMkCyDdArul4ynBshU3Gk3BFysmCi-hWwEn8oBkf/s1600/IMG_2449-01.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjmiU6fE3tFUFa7zTERoxmoVR7zpdnoKHlVtrRO5tkoDjdjr6hshnIuYTXv-God7QXJiKPAQajdkqmpnLJwCmnjU59VeQ-VhTOuCxbTwMkCyDdArul4ynBshU3Gk3BFysmCi-hWwEn8oBkf/s640/IMG_2449-01.jpeg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">view from my room balcony</td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-4A8RwSVxY-o/WPOUo5Wjq6I/AAAAAAAAeLY/ubg_NkAWb2cFrWXyzal4vS-FLnmom8DQACPcB/s1600/IMG_8482-01.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-4A8RwSVxY-o/WPOUo5Wjq6I/AAAAAAAAeLY/ubg_NkAWb2cFrWXyzal4vS-FLnmom8DQACPcB/s640/IMG_8482-01.jpeg" width="426" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Jesuitenkirche</td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Sg4IXlbRHms/WPTQ4hgxePI/AAAAAAAAeO8/HtNq8bA_Yk8HQM4xgJT8-XbEuOAKr3lOgCPcB/s1600/IMG_2460-01.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Sg4IXlbRHms/WPTQ4hgxePI/AAAAAAAAeO8/HtNq8bA_Yk8HQM4xgJT8-XbEuOAKr3lOgCPcB/s640/IMG_2460-01.jpeg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">buried in snow</td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-nmXhO8vSHN0/WPOUoxvRojI/AAAAAAAAeLY/zOqhHf7HupA7kpP3-Zhd1FsPg_RRmkLVgCPcB/s1600/IMG_8483-01.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-nmXhO8vSHN0/WPOUoxvRojI/AAAAAAAAeLY/zOqhHf7HupA7kpP3-Zhd1FsPg_RRmkLVgCPcB/s640/IMG_8483-01.jpeg" width="426" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Des Balances, pretty hotel I was staying at</td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-RR68rE1CFvI/WPOUo_w_EcI/AAAAAAAAeNQ/3WVfZ2c1UwwK983YUoKCupvXRAj6e9xcwCPcB/s1600/IMG_2438-01.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-RR68rE1CFvI/WPOUo_w_EcI/AAAAAAAAeNQ/3WVfZ2c1UwwK983YUoKCupvXRAj6e9xcwCPcB/s640/IMG_2438-01.jpeg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">shopping area Hertensteinstrasse</td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-o5rxRfcrVy0/WPTQ4rm0CII/AAAAAAAAeO8/uwa5YreTxKcRqzysK1_JememQOCa2Q_bACPcB/s1600/IMG_2484-01.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-o5rxRfcrVy0/WPTQ4rm0CII/AAAAAAAAeO8/uwa5YreTxKcRqzysK1_JememQOCa2Q_bACPcB/s640/IMG_2484-01.jpeg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">frozen lake</td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimO2Gflv7Bj08mpkWFBMb6q5CEunBdHvo1SDymfBWlBWYXwmydjhk-vTSHQWoMX9Pp04Amo-iSq6gDmvXGRJivUABXwYSjs0Fv70yH5_P0rf7bXCOj7rWN1qEw4Qz6shbZYiHNWB3Ea9xQ/s1600/IMG_2485-01.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimO2Gflv7Bj08mpkWFBMb6q5CEunBdHvo1SDymfBWlBWYXwmydjhk-vTSHQWoMX9Pp04Amo-iSq6gDmvXGRJivUABXwYSjs0Fv70yH5_P0rf7bXCOj7rWN1qEw4Qz6shbZYiHNWB3Ea9xQ/s640/IMG_2485-01.jpeg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Old Swiss House</td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Ux4FKe-04DM/WPTQ4tLm2kI/AAAAAAAAeO8/3szGDW4OyycQBZLQKq6doIc0dE91FME8QCPcB/s1600/IMG_2486-01.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Ux4FKe-04DM/WPTQ4tLm2kI/AAAAAAAAeO8/3szGDW4OyycQBZLQKq6doIc0dE91FME8QCPcB/s640/IMG_2486-01.jpeg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">snow everywhere</td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-aMObpyUfkaA/WPOUo11LviI/AAAAAAAAePY/EOKsOI1fKPY3JqA3At1a9DSTXp_tbTMFgCPcB/s1600/IMG_2488-01.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-aMObpyUfkaA/WPOUo11LviI/AAAAAAAAePY/EOKsOI1fKPY3JqA3At1a9DSTXp_tbTMFgCPcB/s640/IMG_2488-01.jpeg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Löwendenkmal or the Lion Monument</td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-BMrYpUhRT0A/WPOUo16TRfI/AAAAAAAAeLY/QPu8s5M0_AQGsYKDjrrr3eI2aD4CYENQACPcB/s1600/IMG_2475-01.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-BMrYpUhRT0A/WPOUo16TRfI/AAAAAAAAeLY/QPu8s5M0_AQGsYKDjrrr3eI2aD4CYENQACPcB/s640/IMG_2475-01.jpeg" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">always love leafless snowy tree :)</td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-YKO2AgONFME/WPTVk6dcKUI/AAAAAAAAePk/_U42wZdCv9EN5nFC3wSAuSLbqF3Gt48KACPcB/s1600/IMG_2474-01.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-YKO2AgONFME/WPTVk6dcKUI/AAAAAAAAePk/_U42wZdCv9EN5nFC3wSAuSLbqF3Gt48KACPcB/s640/IMG_2474-01.jpeg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Luzern city from across the lake</td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-VF6xAbLfbW0/WPOUoywFl-I/AAAAAAAAeNE/PZtcFPNQxfgS2tKCLf4Qom7GcAPDcHeDgCPcB/s1600/IMG_2476-01-01.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-VF6xAbLfbW0/WPOUoywFl-I/AAAAAAAAeNE/PZtcFPNQxfgS2tKCLf4Qom7GcAPDcHeDgCPcB/s640/IMG_2476-01-01.jpeg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Luzern</td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEidojJdfJ31TL-AwN5PJ9mxEmR0ZP9VBq0CZDZMTdx5-5ECDJAQ5R1QPg6HfyNjbDgS8Y9_O3tXCbAvzLKEaWVTsfbbPnDeV2tib70QTThbO_-_3WEOFiG2qRK4y9APLe5QooSnCqWm4EVA/s1600/IMG_2483a-01-01.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEidojJdfJ31TL-AwN5PJ9mxEmR0ZP9VBq0CZDZMTdx5-5ECDJAQ5R1QPg6HfyNjbDgS8Y9_O3tXCbAvzLKEaWVTsfbbPnDeV2tib70QTThbO_-_3WEOFiG2qRK4y9APLe5QooSnCqWm4EVA/s640/IMG_2483a-01-01.jpeg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Seebrücke Luzern </td></tr>
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Luzern, I will be home again...hopefully sooner rather than later :)<br />
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<br />Debbzie Leksonohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11633293406090733531noreply@blogger.com10tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1006989774341308826.post-12500823327573434162017-04-09T17:53:00.000+08:002017-04-09T22:19:17.944+08:00Chiang Mai: Witnessing Gruesome Torture In Hell<i><b>*Contains graphic violence, nudity and adult situations. Viewers discretion advised and please read with an open mind.*</b></i><br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-5T65YzPv5vs/WLveG_GelQI/AAAAAAAAdK8/kGvwB5drx2oaKmir6pQaiRAFXzJTZHf7gCPcB/s1600/DSCF2562_Fotor.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-5T65YzPv5vs/WLveG_GelQI/AAAAAAAAdK8/kGvwB5drx2oaKmir6pQaiRAFXzJTZHf7gCPcB/s640/DSCF2562_Fotor.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">what the hell!</td></tr>
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"Welcome to Garden of Hell, Heaven and Golden Land of Buddhism."<br />
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Yai, my local friend translated what's written in Thai alphabet; above the gate I was about to enter. There's no ticket booth or any staffs on sight. We just need to put 10 baht coins into the slot machines and the automatic gate to the hell will be opened for you. We were the only visitor that afternoon in the garden full of demonic-looking life size statues. Though the garden was bright with sunshine, I found the quietness was rather blood-curdling.<br />
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Wat Mae Kaet Noi or famously known as the Hell temple is located on the outskirts of Chiang Mai city. It's pretty challenging to find for the first timer because we couldn't find any sign board or direction to this temple. Phi Ton, our chauffeur drove carefully through some narrow street before we finally saw a couple of skull statues greeted us in front of the gate. What I knew about Buddhist temples are, usually displays beautiful and tranquil elements but this temple is the opposite. Wat Mae Kaet Noi is loaded with disturbing and gory statues so the visitors could take a peek what will hell be like.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-eAT9p4nkfrk/WLveG91a1RI/AAAAAAAAdLg/-xHMxs76BXgV2EMH-hHZw9AVJJ-G6XIAgCPcB/s1600/DSCF2555_Fotor.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-eAT9p4nkfrk/WLveG91a1RI/AAAAAAAAdLg/-xHMxs76BXgV2EMH-hHZw9AVJJ-G6XIAgCPcB/s640/DSCF2555_Fotor.jpg" width="426" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">gigantic pimple-loaded statue</td></tr>
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I watched a short documentary film about this temple sometime last year (scroll down to watch the video) and instantly put it on my bucket list. Some of you who have been following my journey might have noticed that I have a special interest in horror thingy, cemeteries and skulls. While travelling, I usually try to squeeze time to visit haunted places or admiring some tombstones on graveyard and one of my fave is <a href="http://www.debbzie.com/2015/01/france-catacombs-of-paris-life-under.html" target="_blank">Catacombs of Paris</a> that I visited a few years back.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-gjFneyOK6Yw/WLveG29mw1I/AAAAAAAAdK8/-A3GjIVMH_E71bqrB5hTj6VzZwasG234ACPcB/s1600/DSCF2559a_Fotor.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-gjFneyOK6Yw/WLveG29mw1I/AAAAAAAAdK8/-A3GjIVMH_E71bqrB5hTj6VzZwasG234ACPcB/s640/DSCF2559a_Fotor.jpg" width="478" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">horrid torture</td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-5CGog4gPULo/WLveGwZrb3I/AAAAAAAAdK8/dQwXJ9JDZ5ohDz-Hmu86RTCsEXyv7qJiwCPcB/s1600/DSCF2576_Fotor.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-5CGog4gPULo/WLveGwZrb3I/AAAAAAAAdK8/dQwXJ9JDZ5ohDz-Hmu86RTCsEXyv7qJiwCPcB/s640/DSCF2576_Fotor.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">thieves got their hands chopped off</td></tr>
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Heaven and hell. Angel and demon. No one has ever scientifically proved they exist but some religions believe it. And of course every religions have different ideas about this. I can't say that I'm a fully believer either but most of the time I have big curiosity of these topics and I am intrigued to find out. However it irks me when I see people fight each other, so persistent that their religion is the best. Why can't they settle with the idea that everyone has their own opinions? Oh well, who am I to judge what's right and wrong though? I, myself a grown up woman who cries over cartoon movies or gets upset when my fried chicken skin is snatched by other. Doh!<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-aJrvpeJ0dFM/WLvm4N1uAQI/AAAAAAAAdMk/0irTRM7T4_AlhcyAdC2FeGEloTus64RtQCPcB/s1600/DSCF2616.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-aJrvpeJ0dFM/WLvm4N1uAQI/AAAAAAAAdMk/0irTRM7T4_AlhcyAdC2FeGEloTus64RtQCPcB/s640/DSCF2616.jpg" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">that looks awfully painful </td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-8YZ80CkgwS4/WLveG2XwjQI/AAAAAAAAdK8/NWVESpYQvc42MsUSx9eI4OB7GrfS3PHWwCPcB/s1600/DSCF2560_Fotor.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-8YZ80CkgwS4/WLveG2XwjQI/AAAAAAAAdK8/NWVESpYQvc42MsUSx9eI4OB7GrfS3PHWwCPcB/s640/DSCF2560_Fotor.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">boiled alive</td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-yRtpiLh9TXg/WLveG20DAoI/AAAAAAAAdK8/DV13l-mlWPQoNzOtdlmudM6r8wShKK4ngCPcB/s1600/DSCF2577_Fotor.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-yRtpiLh9TXg/WLveG20DAoI/AAAAAAAAdK8/DV13l-mlWPQoNzOtdlmudM6r8wShKK4ngCPcB/s640/DSCF2577_Fotor.jpg" width="478" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Nope, not Moana. It's Nang Tani, the spirit of the Banana Tree</td></tr>
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The head monk Pra Kru Vishanjalikon once stated that the scariest thing is our mind. He built this temple to remind people about goodness and morality. Also to share his vision about the scary punishment in Naraka or hell when you do sinful acts during life. Every so often, students are taken to this temple for a school trip so they can learn about the consequence of leading a bad life. Yai told me that there's 5 prohibitive articles in Buddhism, which are:<br />
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1. To abstain from taking the lives of living beings.<br />
2. To abstain from taking that which is not given.<br />
3. To abstain from sexual misconduct.<br />
4. To abstain from telling falsehoods.<br />
5. To abstain from distilled and fermented intoxicants, which are the occasions of carelessness (which also includes drugs).<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Phya Yom, the Death King</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">the punishment for a cheating wife</td></tr>
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What I learnt from the temple was the punishment in Buddhist hell are specific to the crimes committed. Like the one from the picture above, a cheating wife got something that looks like a humongous eggplant inserted to her vajajay. Thieves got their hand hands chopped off by a chainsaw. Some murderer got their body processed inside what looked like a meat grinder or their body split in half. Some souls got boiled alive inside a huge bubbling vat. And so on. Some tortures are way too vulgar to describe. I even had to looked away because I can't bear to imagine how excruciating it is!<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">ouch!</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">the Krasue</td></tr>
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The detail of the statues are mind-blowingly fine that I almost got a heart attack when I turn my head around and suddenly there was a Krasue swinging loosely only 5 centimetres from my face. Gosh! Even more, some of the exhibits have mechanical and electric light components which can be activated by inserting a ten baht coin into the slot. The frightening-sounding audio plays some spine-tingling painful screams and crying from the aborted babies.<br />
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In the Southeast Asia folklore, Krasue is a nocturnal spirit in a form of a beautiful woman with her internal organs hanging down. The Krasue in under a curse that makes her always hungry and hunting every night for a flesh or fresh blood. Besides attacks cattle and chicken, the Krasue also preys on pregnant women and feeding on unborn babies with vampire-like teeth, causing miscarriage.<br />
That's scary! Why doesn't she suck belly fat instead?<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-HSbjmtUqEGU/WLveG0u8BWI/AAAAAAAAdK8/5N2pbVWAaJMVipWj3IQVaEMlxgXUN5mIACPcB/s1600/DSCF2613_Fotor.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-HSbjmtUqEGU/WLveG0u8BWI/AAAAAAAAdK8/5N2pbVWAaJMVipWj3IQVaEMlxgXUN5mIACPcB/s640/DSCF2613_Fotor.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">labour and birth while some Krasue waiting eagerly</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">the baby tree!</td></tr>
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After spending a good 1 hour taking pictures of those heart wrenching and demonic statues, I kinda relieved when I finally arrived at the peaceful garden of Heaven. The sun suddenly seemed shine brighter and the surrounding felt peaceful. No more desperate agonising scream sound torturing my ears. There's not much to see here though so I just walked around for a while amongst the smiley-faced statues, together in heavenly happiness.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">peaceful and smiley face</td></tr>
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The Hell Temple is an interesting alternative if you want to see something different other than tons of gorgeous temples in Chiang Mai. Even if you don't believe in any religions or the existence of heaven and hell, I do still think people could learn a lesson or two about this life. Please do visit with an open mind though. After all this world would be a better place to live when human beings learn to stop hurting each other. Don't you think so? :)<br />
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<b>Wat Mae Kaet Noi</b><br />
Highway 1001, Tambon Pa Phai, Amphoe San Sai<br />
Chang Wat Chiang Mai 50210<br />
Thailand<br />
Opens from 8am to 6pmDebbzie Leksonohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11633293406090733531noreply@blogger.com3