to travel is to live

Discover Beautiful Tibet

2008-10-12T11:53:00.014+08:00

Until some past twenty years, very few foreigners were privileged to lay eyes on Tibet. When the doors were finally flung open in the mid-1980s, the roof of the world was no longer the hidden hermit kingdom. The Buddhist kingdom of Tibet, to me, a land steeped in magic and mystery. It was a tough but a trip worthwhile.

The Potala Palace is a MUST visit in Tibet. The palace was the chief residence of the Dalai Lama until the 14th Dalai Lama fled to India after a failed uprising in 1959. Today, the palace has been converted into a museum by the Chinese, and is famous for its grand buildings, devotional atmosphere and splendid internal artworks. It was reported that the palace will allow no more than 2,300 visitors a day, therefore ticket can be hard to come by especially during peak seasons.

Buddhism was initially slow to take place in Tibet, but is now one of the most devoutly Buddhist nation in the world. Bustling with worshippers, the Jokhang temple is one of the most revered religious structure in Tibet. The spokes of the Wheel of Law represent the eight parts of th Noble Eightfold Path. The wheel is usually flanked by two deers.

Tibetan prayer flags often found strung along mountain ridges to bless the surrounding countryside. These prayer flags come in sets of five, one in each of five colors. The five colors represent the specific elements (blue, space; yellow, earth; green, water; red, fire and white, air), and are arranged from left to right in a specific order. When the flags flutter, prayers are thought to be released to the heavens.

Tibet's children often live in areas far from schools. In many cases, Tibetan families cannot afford to send their children to secondary school because they are all too far away from their village. Kids may have to walk miles and miles, sometimes they were seen to hitch to and back from schools.

Travel permits are required to visit Tibet - the Tibet Tourism Bereau Permit (TTB Permit) will be arranged by the travel agency organizing the trip. And if you want to go further to the "unopened" areas, you need an Alien's travel permit issued by PSB of Tibet.

On the prayer wheels or Mani wheels are depicted mantra. According to the Tibetan Buddhist tradition, spinning such a wheel will have much the same effect as orally reciting the prayers. A wheel can be the size of a fist, or a small building and can be powered by hand, water, or wind.

Tibet can pose particular risks to your health and the large part of these are associated with the high average altitude of the plateau. I was admitted to the hospital for a good three hours due to insuffificient altitude acclimatisation. I was treated for oxygen enrichment, plus other sugar and antibiotic drips.

For centuries, the Tibetans have valued yak - a long-haired bovine. No part of the animal is wasted, and a man's worth is measured by the size of this herd.

Tibet today has won back many religious freedoms. Many of the monasteries are built in high locations above villages. Drepung and Sera Monasteries are once the largest monasteries in the world.

The Tibetan plateau - the earth's highest ecosystem is of some great wilderness. Other than monasteries, and pilgrim circuits, there is plenty to see to keep you busy at least a good 2 weeks. One may enjoy stunningly scenic routes when travelling out of Lhasa.

More to blog. Keep track.

Cycling along Jinji Lake

2008-06-29T00:13:00.001+08:00

As China globalizes and modernizes, its intrinsic beauty is slipping away at an alarming rate. Suzhou - the canal city, has been long appreciated the pleasures of a waterside view and is one of the most celebrated city with historic gardens.

In recent years, a waterfront park and promenade took shape around Jinji Lake here, in the hope that what's good for the environment will also be good for business.

The Jinji Lake Waterfront district is the centerpiece of the Suzhou Industrial Park (SIP). Decided one of the weekends, after getting my new bicycle to go for a ride along the lake neighbourhood.

Once covered with agricultural land and fish ponds, the SIP project (major joint venture between the Chinese and Singapore government) has attracted prominent international businesses - and now populated with high-rise apartments, adjoined cultural institutions, restaurants and entertainment centers.

Sculptures and objects are seen as part of the artwork on the waterfront project.

In the early mornings, and evenings, many people stroll along the boardwalks. Some were seen practicing taichi. In a way, the scene and event gave a somewhat Zen and serene setting.

Some may choose to enjoy bicycle ride along the Jinji waterfront. Rentals are available.

Overall, the landscape architects have to keep to the concept inherent in Suzhou's classical gardens. The value of the lake itself should not be forgotten.

Young, old, couples, friends and families crowded the place that weekend - weather was slight gloomy that day but at least was windy and breezy.

On the evenings of Friday and Saturday nights, hundreds or sometimes even thousands people gather for a spectacular fountain display with colored lights and music at the water's edge.

The Suzhou Industrial Park was modeled after Jurong Town, an industrial district in Singapore that the former chinese leader, Deng Xiaoping, visited in 1992, prompting him to invite Singapore to help the Chinese in establishing a truly global enterprise zone.

The Humble Administrator's Garden

2008-06-28T23:38:00.006+08:00

SuZhou is a city with many beautiful gardens (as I was told) - one of the biggest is the Humble Administrator's Garden (ZhouZhengYuan). This garden was built around 1509AD during the Ming Dynasty by a former government servant - Wang Xianchen. He was tired of official life and wanted a garden to retire to. He got the name for the garden from an essay called "To cultivate my garden and sell my vegetable crop is the policy of humble man".

The Chinese term for landscape is shan shui, literally "mountains and water." No Chinese garden is complete without a body of water, no matter how small.

Water is the nurturing, yielding, or yin element, a necessary counterpoint to the hard, vertical, or yang elements such as the monumental stones placed throughout Chinese gardens. The most important is the garden has to look natural - although man-made.

The covered corridors, built to allow the owner to enjoy the garden despite rain and snow. In addition, these are divided - the outer ones for man (right), and the inner ones for woman (left). Though divided, the roof simply binds them two together. As they walk along the corridor, they can see each other from the decorative openings.

The openings were designed simply as circles, squares or ovals or in more imaginative shapes like a monkey face ?

See this very often - the decorative pavement of pebbles. Above you see the shape of coins and flowers. Interestingly (as I was told), depending on your first stepping on the pavement, if you first step on "coin", then 有钱花 (you have money to spend). On the other hand, if you first step on "flower", then 会花钱 (like spending money).

As most of the buildings were built beside water, they were navigable by small boats along the man-made canal.

I was amazed as well with such simple decorative windows - from the blue-tainted glasses, it provided a frosty impression of the summer view, as if you were looking winter through the windows. Brilliant.

Chinese use and select plants in their gardens, and each specimen has its symbolic meanings. And my favorite - the sacred lotus.

The sacred lotus symbolizes purity, with blossoms of different colors emerging from the mud beneath the water where it grows.

For the Buddhist, lotus represents a noble character, the soul battling against the material world to reach the light.

From time to time, students are seen here for their assignments, and painting sessions.

In Chinese gardens, landscapes are usually discovered in sequence and are often resemble a labyrinth of spaces of manipulated perspective.

For this humble garden, every step is experienced as a series of scenes - maybe even likened to entering the magical realms of the Immortals.

Buildings and pavillions nicely placed along the water, plus luxuriant of vegetation - creating a great harmony between the natural scenery and the man-made elements. The picturesque scene of the pagoda is an example of the garden technique called "borrowed view from afar".

Despite the big crowd, it was still possible to enjoy the effect why the garden was built the first place - a place of retreat for escape the chaos and hustle bustle of the city.

The garden is also lined with trees - it was a good weekend walking and discovering the garden soul of SuZhou.

Known as one of the four most famous gardens in China, the ZhouzhengYuan will not disappoint. Entrance during peak season : 70 RMB. Recommended to take a guided tour (additional 70 RMB).

But sadly, the son lost the place for paying his gambling debts.

The Art Island of Naoshima

2008-06-22T16:13:00.001+08:00

Naoshima is a small island situated in Seto Inland Sea known for its nature and contemporary art. The art site is an attempt to produce an utterly new type of space and experience by setting contemporary art and architecture amidst the beauty of nature.

The outdoor over-sized polka-dot pumpkin is one of the art pieces that drew people to the remote Naoshima Island.

Edited here for more pumpkin colors. We saw only the yellow and the red ones.

The blurred effect using Irfan View - I actually like how the way I formed the mosaic art.

Different types of pumpkin available during one of the visits to XiTang, Zhejiang. Click here : http://phototravel.aminus3.com/image/2008-04-20.html

New Blog New Life

2007-09-28T23:33:00.001+08:00

Due to non access of blogspot.com in China, I have now moved to new blog address.

Click : http://phototravel.aminus3.com/

Thank you for all your comments the past 2 1/2 years. Unfortunately, I am not able to read your blogs as long as I am stucked here in China.

Effective September 30, 2007.

Life Around Tonle Sap Lake

2007-07-22T10:54:00.000+08:00

Tonle Sap, the combined lake and river system is of huge importance to Cambodia. It is the largest freshwater lake in Southeast Asia.

Millions of people live on the floodplain around the Tonle Sap and there are a few hundreds floating villages on the lake itself.

Fishery is the dominant activity for the villagers of Tonle Sap. In fact, the lake system is one of the most productive inland fisheries in the world.

For most of the year the lake is a fairly small lake, only around one metre deep.

During the monsoon season, however, the Tonle Sap river which connects the lake with the Mekong river reverses its flow.

Water is pushed up from the Mekong into the lake, increasing its depth to up to nine metres, flooding nearby fields and forests. The floodplain as the results of the pulsing system provides a perfect breeding ground for fish.

Many kids were seen loitering everywhere. Many sell bananas hoping to earn some money. Please buy my bananas ! All they could say was the same "One dollar" and stuck out their pointer as indication.

During April, it was extremely hot out there in the lake. The kids looked very tanned and dark. I am sure it is hard life out there.

Foreign tourists were also approached quickly by beggar kids, hoping to get tips (money). According to our tour guide, these poor kids were Vietnamese.

Some of the kids used just small basins to paddle around to ask for money. It was sad sight that to see this kid has one lost limb.

The children go to a floating school nearby. It is good to see that at least these kids are given some sort of education despite the poor living conditions. But the school isn't big enough to accommodate all of them.

Some of these schools are often funded by foreign governments like Korea, Japan, etc. Seen here is a floating caged basketball court as above.

Initially I felt pity. It was a mixed feeling. I gave some of them money.

There is a great chance to volunteer, plenty of programs - an opportunity to participate in meaningful community service.

Check this site : Volunteer Abroad

Eye On Malaysia

2007-07-09T10:14:00.000+08:00

In 2007, Malaysia celebrates its 50th year of nationhood. Hurray.

As part of Visit Malaysia Year 2007 is the iconic viewing wheel, as one of the 50 major attractions introduced by the Tourism Ministry to woo tourists.

The Eye on Malaysia - the RM 30 million (wah, so expensive !!) ferris wheel that comprises of 42 gondolas (similar to the London Eye) is located at Titiwangsa Lake Gardens.

The wheel allows visitors to experience a 360-degree skyline view of Kuala Lumpur during a 12-minute ride that goes 60 metres high.

Eye on Malaysia, originally installed in Paris is quite a hit among locals and tourists.

Although I have initially expected the ferris wheel to be larger and in fact, rather disappointed at first glance, but I quite like the reflection of the high structure on the Titiwangsa Lake.

I did not get onto the EYE. I guess as a Malaysian, I should have for once at least. It was too hot that noon.

Another snapshot of the reflected ferris wheel from the lake. It would be nice to have some night shots and stayed on for the water and light displaying but I was a little too tired. It was another 2 - 3 hours wait. For pictures, do visit bloom, flowers, bloom - EYE on Malaysia.

An exclusive VIP gondola has also been outfitted to include plush leather seats fit for a king, a mini fridge, a DVD player, a plasma TV and a mobile telephone.

Apart from the gondola ride, one can also enjoy other attractions ie. the International Watersky Spectacular. Malaysia welcomes you.

The park is also a good place for jogging, canoeing, "paktoh" and awhole lot of other activities.

Made of fish meat that is grounded to a paste and mixed with sago flour, and then deep-fried, the keropok is crispy on the outside, chewy on the inside. One of my favorites and best eaten with sweet and spicy chilli sauce.

Eye on Malaysia but Made in China (alamak !). To some extent, it just can't help - "Made in China. Sold everywhere" - in today's world through globalization, China has rapidly become an economic superpower. A place where I will be heading next.

Something to Talk About Part 4

2007-07-06T10:45:00.000+08:00

I'd always liked this part of my blog. Occasionally there is something to talk about. It has been awhile since the last time, and I thought it would be nice to have another one now.

Something to Talk About Part 1

Something to Talk About Part 2

Something to Talk About Part 3

Many of us relate ambition with power, wealth, success and career. Many times, when asked what is our ambition, we will think of our career or something significant that we would like to achieve. However, some others may differ. Their ambition may just to be the best person he/she can be, do no avoidable harm to others. Can one say his/her ambition is to get married and have a happily ever after family ?

Ambition in fact a simple word but with BIG meanings - the desire, eagerness to achieve something, to be someone. And to have ambition, motivation always be present.

Can good ambition lead to bad consequences ? Can one be victim of having ambition ? Of course. Because ambition could cause people to go over limits and sometimes the ambition can be so big that people hurt themselves and others while trying to reach a goal.

Do you still have ambition ? Or are you lost now somewhere searching for new motivation ?

Did you remember the three choices you'd put in the list ? I wanted to become a doctor, or maybe a teacher or a policeman.

Is what you are now someone you aimed to be when you were a kid ? Is your ambition what your parents wanted you to be ? Ambition is part of our life. And ambition is essential.

Trekking at FRIM

2007-06-25T17:53:00.000+08:00

FRIM is our leading institution in tropical forestry research. The 600-ha site in Kepong is located 16 km northwest of Kuala Lumpur.

FRIM consists of three research divisions.
(1) The Forestry Division provides data, standards and guidelines for managing our natural forests on a sustainable basis.
(2) The Product Development Division focuses on the development of forest-based industries.
(3) The Biotechnology Division involves in creating new planting material through genetic engineering.

FRIM’s ‘forest tour packages’ provide opportunities for outdoor recreation (i.e. forest trekking) and public education in its grounds.

The look of the sky in dense forest of FRIM. It was a good day for forest trekking.

One of the main attractions is the Canopy Walkway which spans about 200 m and is suspended between trees at about 30 m above ground. The trail to the walkway is uphill, steep and physically demanding (about 30 - 45 mins).

A small charge is levied for the visit;
(1) RM5 for adults
(2) RM3 for students (Age 13 onwards)
(3) RM1 for children (Age 7 - 12 yrs)

Despite that it is built with high quality ropes, visitors are advised to be at least 3 - 5 meters away from each other while on the canopy walkway.

A fallen durian fruit. Plenty of them actually on the grounds of the trek trail.

Some kids - there is nothing much more fun than than outdoor fun with water.

Looks like it is popular among the Chinese community as well (not to mention that I saw plenty of foreigners too).

A kid seen here enjoying the cooling water from the nearby waterfall.

A small waterfall at Sungai Kroh with 2 little huts is ideal place for family day.

FRIM is a popular spot for picnickers, joggers, cyclers, tourists and nature study groups, for family day events, treasure hunts, camping, birdwatching, jungle trekking and as well as nature photography.

For me, it is a treasure of relatively unpolluted air, cooler temperatures and quiet serenity.

For the serious jogger, there are 2 tracks that wind through dense forest, plantation ground and laterite road that will surely test their endurance.

It was definitely some tough and long walks (there were no cabbies till to the main entrance of FRIM). I saw this traditional house on the way.

PEJABAT means office.

I did not drive. Took the KTM train to Kepong Central and a cab to FRIM. It was a good trip away from the hustle bustle of the city. And the heavy rain came only after the trekking. Pheewww.

More information : Forest Research Institute Malaysia

Madurodam, Den Hague

2007-06-21T08:48:00.000+08:00

Although I spent almost a week in Amsterdam, I did not have much chance to look around considering it was that time more for work than vacation. I thought the best way to see and to know more about Holland (well apart from the Red Light District), that Madurodam would be a MUST visit - so that to know abit about the country.

Madurodam is a miniature city (1:25 scale) located in Den Hague. The city was named after George Maduro.

Madurodam is indeed one major tourist attraction in Holland. As you can see, the park was crowded with people especially on weekends. The miniature city has some two hundreds of models.

This is probably the Super Container Ship that travels to the Far East.

Dutch Maritime Museum (Amsterdam) - a marine warehouse housed all kinds of materials needed for the shipping sector.

Amsterdam's largest renaissance church Westerkerk (Amsterdam), where Queen Beatrix and late Prince Claus were married in this church.

In the canal 'Herengracht' are the Holland International round-trip boats which give you a completely different view of Amsterdam.

Rijksmuseum (Amsterdam) houses one of the major collections of paintings from the 15th to 19th centuries.

The street cafes on the Rembrandtplein are crowded with people (fake ones). The Rembrandt Square was named after the famous painter.

Frans Hals Museum (Haarlem) - named after the 17th century painter Frans Hals and has more than a dozen paintings by him in the museum as well as others' artwork and collections.

The Canal 'Voldersgracht' in Delft.

Not sure the significance of this building. Forgot.

Delftse Poort - the head office of an insurance company in Rotterdam.

The two office towers of the building - both the full size and the miniature one are made entirely of glass.

Het Binnenhof (Den Hague) - the Dutch Parliament buildings, has been the centre of government of the country for centuries.

The scrap iron barge that plies back and forth the little canal.

The Royal Palace (in Dam Square) was the City Hall of Amsterdam for one and a half centuries, until King Lodewijk Napoleon furnished it as a palace in 1808, which it has remained ever since. The palace is now used by Queen Beatrix for official receptions.

The Concertgebouw is considered one of the three finest concert halls in the world, along with Boston's Symphony Hall and the Musikverein in Vienna.

The Peace Palace (Den Hague) is the seat of the International Court of Justice. And it is one of the oldest buildings of Madurodam.

The Noord-Holland town of Broek op Langedijk is home to Europe's oldest vegetable auction but now a museum.

Frisian 'Head-Neck-Body farm' (Wunseradiel) - the living accommodation (the head) is linked to the farm building (the body) by a narrow section (the neck).

Hans Brinker is the young hero of legend who pushed first his finger, and later his entire arm, into a hole in the dyke all night long, to keep out the water that threatened to flood the country. He has become a symbol of Holland's age - old battle against water.

House of the Future (Rosmalen) built to show how a house might look tomorrow.

Royal Palace 'Huis ten Bosch' in Den Hague - the residential palace of Queen Beatrix.

Village square with Salvation Army Band - you can listen to the band by inserting a 10 cent coin.

The Bulb field of Lisse but in Madurodam, which blooms all year round.

DD-IRM 'Regiorunner' - the longer distance lines for the Dutch Rail. Madurodam has the world's largest miniature railway.

Amsterdam Airport Schiphol - the airport is ranked fourth in terms of passenger traffic.

George Maduro fought the Nazi occupation forces as a member of the Dutch resistance and died at Dachau Concentration Camp (click here) in 1945. His parents donated money to start the Madurodam project.

For more information, click Madurodam : Holland in Miniature

One Shot Technology

2007-06-18T09:17:00.000+08:00

This technology was developed by Cadbury in the 1930s but only became common on commercially available machines in the 1980s.

The One Shot Technology involves simultaneously depositing the center inside of a shell of chocolate, in just a one step depositing into the mould (better efficiency compared to the multiple steps traditional shell moulding which has been around for generations).

Cadbury Dairy Milk Snack is a bar with chunks, each filled with a different flavour: strawberry, pineapple, orange, coconut ice, Turkish Delight and caramel.

Nothing much over the weekends. Read books and ate chocolates. Cadbury Snack is far more sweeter than the standard dairy milk bar. I didn't quite like it actually.

But Cadbury Old Jamaica - Rum 'N' Raisin is a good deal - one of the best chocolates I have ever tasted. The rum is not overpowering - all just nice and balance. A MUST try.

I bought it recently from Harris-Popular, 50 wipeable recipe cards for easy DIY-chocolate homemades.

One of my favorite websites for confectionery updates : Candy Blog

Kuala Lumpur Park Tour

2007-06-12T19:09:00.000+08:00

Lake Garden is the most popular park in Kuala Lumpur. Built around two lakes, the tropical garden consists of Orchid Garden, Hibiscus Garden, Butterfly Park and Bird Park. I have decided to visit the latter two.

The Kuala Lumpur Butterfly Park was just a 'so so' park (in my opinion). A walk in the garden, there were not many butterflies flying around actually. I was hoping that the tour would have allowed people to observe butterfly life cycle in action. Couldn't even track down a caterpillar !

They should have stations with butterfly nectars - specially to attract butterflies so that visitors can have a closer look at them. A short video of a butterfly busy collecting nectar from flowers.

A huge overhead net roof spans the garden. There were actually more trees seen than butterflies !

A few small flowers seen here and there.

There is a shallow pond for tortoises - dwelling under the sun. Feeding is possible.

The vivid oranges, red, black and whites of huge Koi fishes.

The sighting of other insects too in the park. I actually have had better butterfly pictures during my last trip to the Singapore Zoo.

The Kuala Lumpur Bird Park is the largest covered bird park in the world. Sprawling approximately 30 acres, visitors can enjoy watching melodic birds perching and winging about freely and at the same time relaxing in a natural and beautifully landscaped surrounding.

The park contains some three thousand or more birds for you to look at and here are some of which pictures I have taken. Above would be a cattle egret (a blonde chick ?).

Apart from bird watching, visitors can also experience bird (i.e. eagle) feeding at various feeding stations.

Painted storks - tall and slender and the head is partly bare of feathers, and is orange-red in color (actually gave a ducky expression).

It has also light fink feathers on its lower back. Nice and elegant.

Hornbills - their elaborated and brightly colored bills. A variety of species and plenty of them.

A fat brown owl nodding off but they may look sleepy or even half asleep when really they are wide awake. Be aware you rats !

The peacock butt - when displays his tail feathers, the peacock shows his intention to the peahen he is ready for mating.

The many variations of parrots. And my favorite is the Rainbow Lorikeet - a dark blue or violet-blue head and stomach, a bright green back, tail and vent, and an orange breast and beak.

Many fruit orchard owners consider them a pest, as they often fly in groups and strip trees containing fresh fruit.

If you are a Malaysian (plus you bring along your MyKad), admission rate is as following;
Kuala Lumpur Butterfly Park RM 5.00 per person
Kuala Lumpur Bird Park RM 12.00 per person

The bird park was worth the visit - I enjoyed the trip quite a bit. If you are a foreigner, then you will have to pay about RM 30.00 per person, unless you are taking the park package which you may then enjoy a few ringgits off.

I would have liked to go explore other places in the city (i.e. Eye on Malaysia) and to meet up friends while back home over the weekends, but heavy downpour and flash flood has kept me at home watching TV.

Amsterdam at Night

2007-06-05T19:30:00.000+08:00

During my second trip to Europe, I visited Germany, Denmark, Belgium and Holland. Whilst all the rest (the trip started from Solingen) was posted more than half a year ago (December 2006), there are actually still two (trip to Amsterdam, Holland) remain as drafts in the blog.

Amsterdam is well known for its canal, but it is also most outstanding for its Red Light District.

Everyone has heard about this world famous area but only until when you see it for yourself, you cannot really imagine what it's really like.

During the day, many people work in offices and in shops in the red-light area. But as dark approaches the area obtains a certain red light charm (Ahem).

Walking around the area in the evening before midnight is even more lovely as the red light themselves reflect in the canals which gives the area an even more inviting/romantic feel about it.

Not exactly only sex shops, the area has also many bars, pubs, cafes and coffeeshops for hangout (in case you bring along your kids).

Some of these sex shops are supermarket size and carry a huge range of every sex aid and toy you could ever want (ie a full size electric blow up dolls - boys or girls - take your pick !)

Amsterdam is famous for it's pornography industry. Here you can have your private viewing cabin so you can watch a bit before you buy. Well you can watch the whole show too for a fee though (Ahem ahem).

The district has more to offer - in case you want more - peep show, live sex show, well, well it is a sex(y) WORLD.

Window prostitution is a legal thing here. All the prostitutes are licensed and there is even a union for the prostitutes to help them lobby the government when needed. The very attractive ones have many horny men hanging around outside. Taking photo's of these women is not permitted and you will be in trouble if you get caught.

Amsterdam is also home to two sexy museums - the Erotic Museum and the Sex Museum.

Adult (very adult) cartoons were shown in this viewing room at the Erotic Museum. I bet you have always known there was something going on between Snow White and those dwarfs, didn't you ? For just a few Euros into the museum, the self guided tour will lead you to many erotic art through the ages (good education indeed !)

Some sort of a pee station for six - no plumbing and only occupy a small area. Can come convenient and is the only free place you ever got (you have to pay Euro 0.50 for toilet use).

Late after midnight, when all the tourists have gone and there are only junkies and bums left out and the area can become a bit dangerous. Don't get too horny and don't stay too late !

Also, the Red Light District is also home to Amsterdam's China Town where you are guaranteed to get some good real Chinese food. I was there almost every night.

Malaysian Studies

2007-06-03T20:23:00.000+08:00

I bought two books recently. These are worth to read to catch up on some Malaysian studies.

This book - a compilation of articles from several high-profile contributors and as well as collection of letters from the rakyat sent to Malaysiakini was a good read indeed - provides (some) understanding somewhat hidden from the public of the conflict between our ex- and present prime ministers. It could be a little outdated but worth the read.

Based on newly declassified documents at the Public Records Office in London, the book alleged that contrary to the official account which had blamed the violence on opposition parties, the May 13, 1969 Sino-Malay Race Riot had been intentionally started by the "ascendent state capitalist class" in UMNO as a coup d'etat to topple the Tunku from power and put Tun Abdul Razak in his place. This, at least, indicates that race and religion was really not quite an issue in the past. Nevertheless, let's work toward and keep improving our race relations.

You can't shake hands with a clenched fist. Indira Gandhi.

Weekend Back to KL

2007-05-28T19:51:00.000+08:00

Another interuption to the Siem Reap post.

I went back to Kuala Lumpur for the weekends. It has been awhile though since I was last back home (to see my parents). The weather in Kuala Lumpur is always hot and humid. Not that Johor Bahru is not hot, but it is always not as suffocating !

I have longed to see Batu Caves since back for good from Japan some 1 1/2 years ago. And finally, took a Metro bus No. 11 over the weekends to visit the cave temple. The high statue (42.7 metres) is of Lord Murugan.

The cave houses several Hindu shrines beneath its 100 metres vaulted ceiling.

Batu Caves is one of the holiest Hindu shrine in Malaysia, and has become the centre of a great religious ceremony - the Thaipusam.

There are 272 steps that a visitor has to climb in order to access the temple at the summit of the hill.

On a clear sunny day, the topmost landing of the stairway offers view of sub-urban Kuala Lumpur.

The cave is a 400-million year-old limestone cave.

Just at the entrance of the cave, a deity statue with a peacock.

At your arrival, you will be greeted by plenty of the Long-tailed Macaque, guarding the upper reaches of the complex stairways.

Visitors are fascinated at the sight of these monkeys, which they feed - sometimes involuntarily.

But as you can see he is scratching his head and wondering, just as we are taking his picture.

Have you been a stinky monkey ? The quite contented looking monkey having his (likely a male monkey) fleas picked !

Monkey drinking from fresh coconut. Thats was yummy, looks like !

This monkey looked fine, happily enjoying the remaining of the coconut water.

Hmmm, hmmm, it was fingers licking good COCONUT.

Garlands of flowers for offerings to deities. It symbolizes the good that has blossomed in oneself.

Coconut (fruit of god) is used as an object of worship - The coconut is broken and placed before the Lord. It symbolizes selfless service.

Meanwhile, the feathers of the peacock are considered auspicious and protective.

Batu Caves is said to have been discovered by K. Thamboosamy an Indian trader in the 1800s. But it became famous only after it was discovered by the American Naturalist, William Hornaday in 1878.

Then, I decided to do some shopping at the Kuala Lumpur Convention Centre (Twin Tower) - Suria Complex.

View of the sky bridge from the KLCC park - the 58.4 metre sky bridge at levels 41 and 42 links the Twin Towers.

KLCC Aquaria is an underwater park located beneath KLCC - upclose and personal with marine life (as well as small jungle creatures).

Took a short video inside the underwater tunnel. One can actually dive with the sharks for registered sessions.

Not sure of what species - a Monchichis monkey ?

Dinner at Jogoya Japanese Buffet Restaurant - numerous buffet lines, the Japanese sushi and sashimi station, Chinese dishes, dim sum and seafood soup, western seafood, indian delicacies, tepanyakki and stir fry seafood, juice and drinks, and desserts. Value for money.

Towering Ta Keo and Pre Rup

2007-05-22T13:39:00.000+08:00

We bought a three-day pass for the visit. There were plenty to see - sunrise, sunset, ruins and plenty of climbing up steep stairways during exploration of the famed ruins of Angkor. Ta Keo and Pre Rup, almost as grand as Angkor Wat, these towering structures were dedicated to Hindu god Shiva.

The plainly decorated temple-mountain of Ta Keo was actually incomplete and later abandoned.

Nevertheless, even as it is, Ta Keo was still impressive. In fact it actually makes it look all the more massive.

A steep but still manageable stairway - getting down was in fact tougher.

Had it been finished, Ta Keo would undoubtedly have been one of the finest temples at Angkor.

Ta Keo is the first temple built entirely in sandstone and as such serves as a milestone in Khmer history. Enormous blocks of stone were cut to a regular size and placed in position.

The local kids that I met halfway up the second tier of the temple complex.

Pre Rup, another temple mountain, the altogether five towers of the temple is even more impressive and seemed more ancient. It might as well be one of the sites for the Indiana Jones project.

The architectural design of Pre Rup is superb and somewhat a temple of fine balance, scale and proportion.

Pre Rup means 'turning the body' and Cambodians have always regarded this temple as having funerary associations.

A gate leading towards the temple complex.

Why not a book to show the present state temple ruins and how it looks like some one thousand years ago.

Writings on the temple wall - some act of vandalism ?

Inside one of the towers - an impression of divine light from Heaven.

The korean girl that was traveling alone. Am I stalking her ? She was pretty I must say.

Bayon - Massive Stone Faces

2007-05-18T18:24:00.000+08:00

Angkor Thom, (Great Walled City) and capital of Angkor, was built by Angkor’s greatest king, Jayavarman VII. Four huge gates (click here), each high enough to accommodate an elephant and riders, faced in each direction

At the each gate entrance to Angkor Thom, there is a row of devas on the left and asuras on the right, each row holding a naga (not shown) in the attitude of a tug-of-war. This appears to be a reference to the myth, popular in Angkor, of the Churning of the Sea of Milk. The myth relates that as the Devas pulled the snake in one direction and the gods pushed in the other, the ocean began to churn and precipitate the elements. By alternating back and forth, the ocean was "milked", forming the earth and the cosmos anew.

The south gate of Angkor Thom is the best preserved. The stone gate is capped by face-towers.

The moat enclosing the city of Angkor Thom in an area of 9 km square.

In the heart of Angkor Thom, lies the beautiful Bayon temple. The temple complex seen from the main entrance.

The most distinctive feature of the temple is the multitude of serene and massive stone faces on some thirty seven surviving towers.

These towers were actually covered in gold. The gold was stripped by later conquorers.

The giant stone faces of Bayon has become one of the most recognizable images connected to classic Khmer art and architecture - the mysterious smiling gods.

The bas-reliefs on the exterior walls - some contain real-life scenes from the historical sea battle between the Khmer and their rivals.

The temple honours not just one deity, but a host of gods found throughout the Khmer empire.

Other carvings are as well exquisite that cold carved stones kept me stunned with beauty.

It was a mind blowing experience - very unique, magnificent, beautiful, mysterious, and an architectural masterpiece.

The Bayon temple is the second must-see temple next to Angkor Wat.

The mysterious smiling gods of the Bayon temple seem to remind all (Khmer) people to live together in peace, happiness, and prosperity.

Phnom Bakheng - Temple on the Hill

2007-05-18T13:47:00.000+08:00

Our first itinerary to the Angkor Archaeological Site actually started off with Phnom Bakheng. The temple is a symbolic representation of Mount Meru, home of the Hindu gods, a status emphasized by the temple’s location atop a steep hill.

It was quite a tough trek up to the top. That late afternoon was hot and humid. All the stone blocks for the temple itself would have been carried up the mountain by elephants, a truely mammoth(!) task.

Located atop a hill, it is nowadays a (very) popular tourist spot for sunset views (below) and the much bigger temple Angkor Wat (above).

It wasn't easy to capture shots - so many people ! Huge crowd gathering at the summit to enjoy the sunset view, this makes Phnom Bakheng one of the most threatened monuments of the Angkor site.

Sandstone carvings at the temple and looks like still in quite good condition. Nice.

Monks everywhere in Siem Reap. Do you know why monks wear orange ? I know they either wear yellow, orange or brown. And the color probably tells you his status in the monastery.

Forgotten Wonders - Angkor Wat

2007-05-16T19:21:00.000+08:00

It has been awhile since I was back from Siem Reap. I am still thinking to visit the place another time. I am really thinking about it, perhaps spend two weeks in the ancient town - make it slow, enjoy the scenery and do some voluntary work.

The large afternoon crowd moving towards the temple complex. Reaching Angkor Wat, visitors can appreciate the full beauty of the building.

During the lifetime of King Suryavarman II, Angkor Wat was used as a temple.

When he died, it eventually became his tomb. After his death, there was war between the Khmer empire and their rival kingdoms.

After Angkor declined, it lay forgotten and gradually became completely overgrown with jungle vegetation. Threats include looting, vandalism and natural forces.

It was not until 1860 that a French naturalist, Henri Mouhat, came upon the ruins by accident as he was collecting plant specimens in the jungle.

The discovery inspired Mouhat to become an archaeologist. He made the first accurate plans and sketches of Angkor Wat and was the first to bring news of its wonders back to Europe.

Until the 1950s Indo-China was a French colony. Henri Mouhat’s work was followed later by a French archaeologists who campaigned for the restoration of Angkor Wat.

Angkor Wat eventually became a Unesco World Heritage Site in December, 1992.

The visit to the temple greatly add to your experience climbing up the tiers these steep stairways to pray at the shrines.

The very steep stairways represent the difficulty of ascending to the kingdom of the gods.

It was an experience that I really enjoyed and something that I will not forget.

Much stones were used to build the magnificent architectural of Angkor Wat. On the other hand, visually, and artistically breathtaking that nearly 2000 distinctively rendered apsara carvings adorn the walls throughout the temple.

Along the corridors, carvings depicting stories and characters from Hindu mythology and the historical wars of Suryavarman II. A guide can be quite helpful in explaining these stories, but we did not have one.

The visual impact of Angkor Wat, particularly on one's first visit, is just awesome.

Some say that it is good luck to pay homage to all four Buddha images before departing Angkor.

Because it is holy place for the Khmers (Cambodian people), it is best to follow proper dress code when visiting Angkor Wat.

Angkor Wat and its surrounding temples albeit serenely placed have been for the latter part of the 20th century a place of genocide and severe suffering.

The surrounding moat outside the temple complex represents the cosmic ocean.

The Cambodia tuk tuk and driver waiting outside the Angkor Wat temple. We hired one of them, taking us from one temple to another.

Angkor Wat represents the spiritual and cosmological significance of the Khmer civilization.

It was difficult to keep my emotions in check, for this (Angkor Wat) was a sight I’d dreamed of glimpsing ever since I was in college.

Umizaru 2

2007-05-03T18:13:00.000+08:00

Interuption to the Siem Reap post ...

I have not watched Umizaru, but I must say that the sequel is terrific. I watched it twice.

Story about Japan rescue divers (umizaru aka sea monkeys), romance and an enormous ship sinking. So much better than Poseidon or even the recent movie, The Guardian. The theme song, Precious by Yuna Ito is good music too.

I wonder if any of my Malaysian friends in Japan would send me Umizaru or the 11-episode drama series of Umizaru Evolution eh ?

The Journey - Ancient Angkor

2007-04-22T17:46:00.000+08:00

It was a five days trip to the ancient city. We could cover quite a bit with the three-day pass which cost us USD 40, which has allowed me to visit Angkor Wat (itself) for all three days. In fact, I think we had visited (briefly) most of the important sites including a half day tour to the floating village of Tonle Sap.

Late afternoon and sunset view from Phnom Bakheng.

Sunrise and early morning walk for Angkor Wat itself.

The city gate of Angkor Thom.

Bayon - the complex of face towers.

Phimeanakas - The royal palace of Suryavarman I.

The Elephant Terrace - carvings of elephants along its wall.

The Leper King Terrace - deities of the underworld, the hidden wall.

Thommanon - A compact temple in the style of Angkor Wat.

Five massive towers on top of the imposing Takeo temple.

The inner towers of Banteay Kdei.

Strangler figs and silk-cotton trees entwined among ruins of Ta Prohm.

Banteay Srei with some exquisite decorative carvings in pink sandstone.

Excellently restored Angkor Wat-style temple, Banteay Samre is one of my favorites.

Huge brick towers of Pre Rup.

Ta Som - a small temple, miniature simplified version of Ta Prohm.

Neak Pean - An island temple in the middle of a pond.

Used to be a buddhist university, Preah Khan is a MUST visit.

On the way to the largest freshwater lake - The Great Lake of Tonle Sap.

We enjoyed the show - in the art of music and Apsara dancing.

Where we lived for several nights - value for money and good service (recommended).
Bou Savy Guesthouse & Restaurant
Homepage : www.bousavyguesthouse.com
E-mail : savy7777@hotmail.com

Angkor Wat - Color Edited

2007-04-20T19:21:00.000+08:00

Just tried out some color change for pictures that I have taken. The last picture is a total change as the sun sets not at this side (but I quite like it).

The Angkor Archaeological Park

2007-04-18T19:22:00.000+08:00

Angkor is one of the most important archaeological sites in South-East Asia. Stretching over some 400 sq. km, including forested area, the Angkor Archaeological Park contains the magnificent remains of the different capitals of the Khmer Empire, from the 9th to the 15th century. These include the famous Temple of Angkor Wat and, at Angkor Thom, the Bayon Temple with its countless sculptural decorations. UNESCO has set up a wide-ranging programme to safeguard this symbolic site and its surroundings.

I was there last week and just back yesterday. The month of April, Siem Reap is roasting hot. I had a tough time coping with the heat and dust, dirt roads. Nevertheless, it was a great trip and an inspiring one.

I have taken lots lots of pictures. I think I will probably be writing about Angkor for the next two months.

Korea - The World's Only Divided Country

2007-03-11T15:27:00.000+08:00

The demilitarized zone (DMZ), designated in 1953 when the Armistice Agreement was signed, marks the site of the division.

The Korean Demilitarized Zone is a strip of land running across the Korean Peninsula that serves as a buffer zone - to give more distance away between North and South Korea. The Military Demarcation Line (MDL) goes right down the center of the DMZ (the border).

From the Dorasan Unification Observatory Platform, North Korea appears very extremely close.

A glimpse of the North. Photography is prohibited in most of the area, therefore no good view shots.

The highlight of the DMZ Tour was visit to one of the tunnels - there are four of them. The 3rd Tunnel (Third North Korea Infiltration Tunnel) was discovered on October 17, 1978. It is located 52km from Seoul. When this tunnel (150 metres underground) was discovered, North Koreans insisted steadfastly that it was made by South Koreans to invade North Korea, but this proved to be false.

The South hopes for peace and reconciliation on the Korean Peninsula. The resumption of the railroad link has made Dorasan Station not the last station from the South but the first station toward the North - linking North and South and beyond.

Dorasan is only 56 kilometers north of Seoul and 205 kilometers south of Pyongyang.

The Freedom Bridge which was used by refugees from the North.

Will North Korea freezes its nuclear weapon program ? And will unification still feasible in coming years ? Let's hope for the best as Korea is the only divide country in the world.

Seoul - Cheong Gye Cheon

2007-03-11T14:28:00.000+08:00

This time the trip to Seoul was a good one. I met with some new faces and made several new friends. Links to my previous trips to Seoul as below :

Seoul Again
Tour 2 Seoul Part One
Tour 2 Seoul Part Two
Tour 2 Seoul Part Three
On Top of the Dragon Peak : Lost Love Found

Introducing Cheong Gye Cheon this time.

The second trip to Gyeongbuk Palace (the largest palace of the Joseon Dynasty) was nice. The snow setting made it extra memorable. It was cold weather despite early March.

Gyeongbuk Palace was said to be the most beautiful among the five other palaces.

I was trying to relate to the first female royal physician of the Joseon Dynasty - Dae Jang Geum. Was it the same palace ? I was told by my friend, that smaller doors were for women to their own palace courtyard. True ?

A big padlock for one of the palace connecting doors.

Decorations and colors used in Korean traditional architecture.

Hyangwonjeong (The Pavilion of Far Reaching Fragrance), an island built in the midst of a lotus pond.

Trees showing off their first budding spring flowers in late winter.

Cheonggye Stream, also known as Cheong Gye Cheon is a 5.8km creek flowing through downtown Seoul and then meeting the Han River.

During the presidency of Lee Seung-man , Cheong Gye Cheon was covered over with concrete for roads and in 1968, an elevated highway was built over it.

In July 2003, Seoul mayor Lee Myung-bak initiated a project to uncover and restore the stream. It was a major undertaking as not only did the highway have to be removed, but years of neglect and development had left the stream nearly totally dry and 120,000 tons of water had to be pumped in daily. Apparently it was a successful project.

Night view of the city and Seoul Tower from where I have stayed - Hyundai Residence.