tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-10643641972431473912024-03-13T18:05:12.557+08:00MiqTravellersMiqTravellershttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13151774118341548775noreply@blogger.comBlogger51125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1064364197243147391.post-41774728235391162582017-01-14T23:14:00.000+08:002017-01-14T23:23:38.311+08:00Going for a working holiday- yay or nay?I have received a few question about working holiday recently. Instead of answering the same question and telling the same stories over and over again, I guess it's time to write an article about it and just tell people to read the blog instead. :P<br />
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If your idea of going on a working holiday is all about fun and earning heaps of money, then I will show you the not-so-nice side of working holiday. <br />
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<u>Fact 01: It's not always easy to secure a job</u><br />
Arriving at the right timing of the year and being not picky is very crucial. You must stay humble and don't be afraid to ask question if you don't understand. After all, to your boss or your contractor, you are just you with a working holiday visa. They don't really care if you were a manager or an engineer in your home country. To them, you must be able to do the job because they are paying you for it. <br />
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Moreover, there is a huge chance that you are working for someone who has lower education level than you and you really need to keep away your ego and stay humble. I have met some unreasonable people before and what I learned best is that it's wise to keep quiet and just focus on my work instead. Saying 'sorry' even when you are not wrong might be the most effective way to avoid problems.<br />
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<u>Fact 02- Jobs are not fancy at all</u> <br />
It is so easy to get a blue collar job than a white collar job in NZ. But hey, who cares if the job is blue collar or not when you get paid $16.25 per hour. So, if you are afraid of working under the sun, you should really start worrying by now. And also, it is unavoidable that you will be working under the big NZ sun (Put on some sunscreen!) if you really want the 3 months visa extension. Furthermore, you might develop stiff neck, shoulders or legs as your job might require you to stay in the same position for 8-10hrs/day. The moral of the story is bring oilment such as yoko-yoko or counter pain.<br />
However, I took it as an opportunity to role-play different character. Trust me, it is more fun when you think that way. <br />
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<u>Fact 03- It's not about earning money</u> <br />
People do asked me if it's easy to earn money in NZ. Well, if you have a job with fixed working hours, you do get paid very well. However, the living expenses here is very expensive! As I'm not a person who can survive on instant noodles, bread and pasta everyday, I spent averagely $60 on groceries every week. Not forgetting about the rents. Hence, my average spending per week can be up to $160-200 and that doesn't include going out for coffee/outings/fuel/car maintenance. <br />
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I have friends who chose to work in factories as operators because they have fixed working hours (40-54 hours per week) and hence, it's easier to save up. I chose not to work in the factory because I hate routine and I don't want to spend my working holiday working like a robot (no offence- It is my personal preference anyway). Instead, I worked in a coffee shop but my shift is very dependent. I get 20-35 hours weekly and that did not significantly contribute to the growth of my savings. However, I really like my routine there. It allows me to do a lot more things and it's fun! <br />
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I had a talk with a friend the other day on how we managed to find so many new ways to earn money in order to pay for our bills in this expensive country. I was playing at least 3 roles to earn money. <br />
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<u>Fact 04- You will get lonely</u> <br />
The 5 hours timezone can be quite torturing. I often text my friends in the morning and I won't be receiving any response from them till afternoon. I don't get to talk properly with my friends and family. If you are the type of person who will get homesick easily, you might want to consider this whv. I have heard about people who flew home after 2 months because they miss their friends and family back home. Hence, your friends and 'family' in NZ plays a very important role in your 6 months to 1 year journey. Just make more friends while you are there! <br />
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<u>Fact 05- People are not always nice even if they are on working holiday</u> <br />
It's normal to live in a backpacker or a homestay when you are NZ for working holiday. Hence, be prepared to live with people who has different lifestyle and behavior from you. I have heard stories of having roommate who doesn't shower everyday or the housemate who never clean up after they use the toilet or kitchen. I used to live with some very young backpackers for a few weeks and it was so tiring as I have to help clean up the mess which they have created during the day. Other than that, I'm glad that I got nice housemates most of the time when I was staying in a homestay. <br />
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<u>Fact 06- There's always uncertainties</u> <br />
It applies on everything! We honestly can't tell what will happen tomorrow. It's normal to receive a text message which say 'It's raining now, we will wait till 12pm and see if we will work today' for those who work outdoor. Or the text message which say 'get ready and we will resume working in 1.5 hr'. My housemates have to be on standby for the whole day because their contractor refused to call it a day off. <br />
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It's normal to change your travel plans everyday. I don't have a fixed plan since I arrived. I guess nobody can ever have a fixed plan as things might go in a completely direction from what you have planned. It is best to just keep calm and see what's next. Trust me, your heart muscle will become much stronger after the working holiday. <br />
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<u>Fact 07- You might need to compromise if you want a work visa</u> <br />
A lot of whv came with the idea of staying with a work visa after their whv. If you are lucky enough, you might be offered the same job which you are doing back home. Otherwise, there is people who compromise and stayed as a factory operator although they have a pretty decent career back home. <br />
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To me, working holiday is something which I really want to do since long time ago. The motivation to apply for the visa hit me when I really want to leave my comfort zone and expose myself to new things/excitement. To me, starting over in a new city is like having the rights to paint a white canvas with any color or pattern. To be frank, it wasn't easy to build a new social circle here but it' is actually easier than doing it in Malaysia. <br />
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Therefore, in order to prepare yourself for the ultimate experience, I urge you to try travelling solo first. Try to deal with uncertainties and see if you are able to cope with it. If you are not here with a friend/partner, you will find yourself doing a lot of things alone for a start. So, it is important that you are comfortable enough to talk to strangers and make friends because they will be your friends or source of information in this foreign country. Think (Your current job and your financial commitments) before you apply for the visa as there's limited space and you might waste other's opportunity to enjoy this ultimate journey! <br />
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<br />MiqTravellershttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13151774118341548775noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1064364197243147391.post-61773778861676352942017-01-13T14:46:00.000+08:002017-01-13T15:31:28.194+08:00NZ South Island Itinerary for 20 days on budget<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Hello! </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"></span><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Since AirAsia started the KUL-AKL route, I think the number of Malaysian going to NZ increased tremendously. I guess this will be a very helpful post to help you answer the following questions: </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><b>1. How long do I need to travel around South Island?</b></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial";">Ideally, you will need at least two weeks to have a decent trip. Honestly, you will need more time if you are into hiking. We did one hike (short/long) every two days and I have to admit that our east coast trip was pretty intense. We tried to fit everything into one week in order to make it to Milford Sound before the stormy week. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><b>2. How much do I need for travelling in New Zealand?</b> </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial";">It really depends on what you want to do. Accommodation is the most expensive cost for our trip. We stayed in hostel every day because I insisted on showering everyday. LOL </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial";">Use Wikicamps, booking.com and YHA website to look for deals. A YHA/BBH card would be very useful. For Malaysians, I would suggest you to apply for YHA card in Malaysia. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial";">To save even more, you should try to cook everyday especially when you travel in groups. One carbonara dish (~$2/pax) with heaps of bacons can last you for two meals. Besides that, you have to exercise perfect self-control<strike> (I'm so bad at this)</strike> at the supermarket. </span><span style="font-family: "arial";">My travel mate spent <b>$885</b> for <b>16 days</b> vs me who spent <b>$1137</b> for <b>20 days </b>because I couldn't say no to ice-cream or chocolates. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial";"><b>3. Should I use bus pass (Kiwi Experience/Stray) or drive?</b></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"></span><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">If you are travelling alone/you don't want to drive, you can stick with the bus pass. If you have one friend with you, you can consider renting a car. However, the road can be pretty narrow and winding. We planned our trip in a way that we don't exceed 5 hours of driving every day. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">So, to help you plan your trip better, I'm going to share my 20 days itinerary, hostels, things-to-do and expenses breakdown for the trip. This will be a very simple post as I will go into the details later. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">First, let me run through the itinerary with you. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><b><u>Day 1 to 4 - </u></b></span><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><b><u><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Christchurch and Springfield</span></u></b><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"> </span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><u>Activities</u></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Christchurch CBD, Botanical Garden, Museum, Art Gallery, Mount Pleasant </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><u>Hostel </u></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">YHA Christchurch</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"></span><b></b><u></u><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><u><b>Day 5 - Christchurch-Lake </b></u></span><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><u><b>Tekapo-Omarama</b></u></span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><u>Activities</u></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Lake Pukaki & Good Shepherd Church</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><u>Hostel</u></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Omarama Buscot Station BBH </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"></span><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><b><u><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Day 6 - Hooker Valley Track-Lake Benmore-Oamaru</span></u></b><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"> </span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><u>Activities</u></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Hooker Valley Track Hike (3 hrs return), Lake Benmore, Blue penguin watching (FREE) </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><u>Hostel</u></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">YHA Red Kettle, Oamaru</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"></span><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><b><u><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Day 7 - Oamaru-Moeraki Boulders- Dunedin</span></u></b><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"> </span></span><br />
<u><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Activities </span></u><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Oamaru Art Gallery </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Oamaru self-guided walking tour </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Moeraki Boulders (check for tide times- only go during low tides) </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Dunedin (Baldwin Street & self-guided walking tour) </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><u>Hostel</u></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Manor Backpackers Place</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"></span><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><b><u>Day 8 - The Catlins- Bluff- Invercargill </u></b></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><u>Activities </u></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial";">McLean Falls</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Nugget Point Lighthouse</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Cathedral Cave (check for tide times- only go during low tides) </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial";">The Lost Gypsy Caravan (It was closed during winter season)</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Bluff </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Invercargill </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">P/s: I would recommend a minimum of two days for this route but we were in a rush as we wanted to be at Milford Sound for the good weather.</span><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"> </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><b><u><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Day 9 - Invercargill- Te Anau</span></u></b><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"> </span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><u>Activities </u></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Te Anau & Manapouri Lake </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">P/s: Best place to do Kepler Track day hike but we didn't have enough time</span><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"> </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><u>Hostel</u></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Manapouri Freestone Backpacker</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"></span><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><b><u><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Day 10 - Milford Sound</span></u></b><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"> </span></span><br />
<u><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Activities </span></u><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Milford Sound Cruise by Go Orange! ($45) </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Key Summit Track, The Divide </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Mirror Lake </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><u>Hostel</u></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Manapouri Freestone Backpacker</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"></span><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><b><u><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Day 11 - Queenstown-Wanaka-Lake Hawea</span></u></b><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"> </span></span><br />
<u><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Activities </span></u><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Queenstown </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Lunch at Fergburger and dessert at Mrs. Ferg</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">QT Sunday Market & Botanical Garden </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Lake Wanaka for Wanaka Tree</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">P/s: Would do Rob Roy Glacier & Black Diamond Lake Track if we had sufficient time. Check out Roy's Peak's lambing season </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><u>Hostel</u></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Lake Hawea Hostel </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"></span><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><b><u><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Day 12 - Isthmus Peak Hike</span></u></b><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"> </span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><u><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Activities </span></u><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Isthmus Peak Track (6 hrs return)</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">P/s: Did this instead of Roy's Peak because Roy's Peak was closed for lambing season. You can see both Lake Wanaka & Lake Hawea from Isthmus Peak. Bring gloves to keep warm! </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><br /></span></span><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><u>Hostel</u></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Lake Hawea Hostel </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"></span><b></b><u></u><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><b><u><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Day 13 - Fox Glacier-Hokitika</span></u></b><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"> </span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><u><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Activities </span></u><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Fox Glacier Walk (2 hrs return - FREE) </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Drove past westcoast due to bad weather </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">P/s: Fox Glacier walk was not worth it IMHO. Too much effort needed for the view. LOL</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><br /></span></span><u><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Hostel</span></u><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Mountain Jade Backpackers Hokitika </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"></span><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><b><u><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Day 14 - Hokitika -Westport</span></u></b><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"> </span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><u><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Activities </span></u><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Hokitika Beach </span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Hokitika Gorge </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Punaikaki Pancake Rocks </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Westport</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></span><u><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Hostel</span></u><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">The Arthouse Hostel Westport </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"></span><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><b><u>Day 15 - Westport-Nelson</u></b></span><br />
<u><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Activities</span></u><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Nelson Lake National Park</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">P/s: The I-site recommended us Buller Gorge but we found out that the place is a bit run down and poorly managed. And also, it was raining when we were there and we decided to skip it.</span><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"> </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><u>Hostel</u></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">The Bug Backpackers, Nelson</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"></span><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><b><u>Day 16 - Abel Tasman</u></b></span><br />
<u><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Activities </span></u><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Abel Tasman Hike (Torrent Bay- Marahau) </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">P/s: I would suggest you to take the watertaxi from Marahau instead. We used Aquataxi for the trip. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><u>Hostel</u></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Annies Nirvana Lodge, YHA</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"></span><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><b><u>Day 17 - Golden Bay</u></b></span><br />
<u><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Activities </span></u><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Wairariki Beach</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Cape Farewell </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial";">Te Waikoropupu Spring</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial";">Grove Scenic Reserve</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><u>Hostel</u></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">The Bug Backpackers, Nelson</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><b><u><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Day 18 - Picton</span></u></b><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"> </span></span><br />
<u><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Activities </span></u><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Shelly Bay Track</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial";">Bob's Bay Track</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Picton Waterfront </span><br />
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<u><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Hostel</span></u><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Pacific Coast Lodge, YHA/BBH</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"></span><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><b><u><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Day 19 - Picton-Christchurch</span></u></b><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"> </span></span><br />
<u><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Activities</span></u><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Blenheim</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Kaikoura for Fish and Chips </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><u>Hostel</u></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Kiwi House Hostel </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"></span><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><b><u><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Day 20 - Castle Hill</span></u></b><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"> </span></span><br />
<u><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Activities </span></u><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Castle Hill (Filming place for Narnia) </span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><u>Hostel</u></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">YHA Rolleston House </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">As you can see from the itinerary, my friends and I weren't into any touristy activities. Oh well, except for Fergburger and Milford Sound Cruise but we wanted them badly. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Hence, if you are into Skydiving or glacier tour, you will need to add that expenses onto the budget. :)</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial";">As mentioned earlier, I have spent $1137 or RM 3,500 (RM3.07= 1$ as per Dec 2016) for this 20 days trip. Whee!</span><br />
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<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-2_Mnl4fTRt4/WGPJbhGF2oI/AAAAAAAAA8A/NiGhjq6fPiwjbhcEIqIlaeNjvaXrxS9pACLcB/s1600/Capture.PNG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="225" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-2_Mnl4fTRt4/WGPJbhGF2oI/AAAAAAAAA8A/NiGhjq6fPiwjbhcEIqIlaeNjvaXrxS9pACLcB/s400/Capture.PNG" width="400" /></span></a></div>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"></span><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"></span><span style="font-family: "arial";">As shown by the pie chart above, accommodation and fuel are the most expensive cost for this trip. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial";">Car Rental & Fuel - </span><span style="font-family: "arial";">We rented a Fiat Punto for 16 days from Jucy and the rental (including full insurance) were shared among 3 people. Fuel price was around $1.76/L-$2.08/L. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial";">Groceries - </span><span style="font-family: "arial";">Daily meal & dine-out. We cooked most of our nutritious meals. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial";">Activities - Milford Sound Cruise and Aqua Taxi ride for Abel Tasman. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial";">Personal Spending - Snacks, chocolates and postcards</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial";">I guess that's about it and I hope that it is a helpful post for all of you. =) </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Feel free to leave a comment or email us if you need any clarification from me.</span><br />
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<br />MiqTravellershttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13151774118341548775noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1064364197243147391.post-22816954677825536942014-11-09T14:06:00.000+08:002014-11-09T14:06:14.417+08:00Arashiyama 嵐山<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Sorry for the lack of update. <span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: ZH-CN;"><o:p></o:p></span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I believe you have read <a href="http://miqtravellers.blogspot.com/2014/02/how-to-fully-utilize-your-kansai-thru.html">my KTP guide</a> and Arashiyama was my first destination! </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Arashiyama is definitely one of my favourite spot in Japan. I went there early because
I wanted to take good pictures and also to avoid the rain. You can get a
walking map from the railway station. I decided to skip all the temples in
Arashiyama because it was too early for foliage during that time. <span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: ZH-CN;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">My first stop was the town. It looks pretty good without the crowd. I
should show you some pictures before the crowd flood the area. <span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: ZH-CN;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-4EVHm-waQ-8/VF7zRI5pnwI/AAAAAAAAA4Y/xTvXS2nJRzA/s1600/PB112742-2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-4EVHm-waQ-8/VF7zRI5pnwI/AAAAAAAAA4Y/xTvXS2nJRzA/s1600/PB112742-2.jpg" height="360" width="640" /></span></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">The famous Togetsukyo Bridge from the Hankyu Arashiyama Station.</span></div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-JUzQw1e_ipo/VF7zpRFg6oI/AAAAAAAAA4g/a7FJrqclHfg/s1600/PB112752-2-2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-JUzQw1e_ipo/VF7zpRFg6oI/AAAAAAAAA4g/a7FJrqclHfg/s1600/PB112752-2-2.jpg" height="360" width="640" /></span></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Togetsukyo Bridge before the crowd floods the bridge. </span></div>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-nW6XyGTm6qQ/VF70DvZzTLI/AAAAAAAAA4o/Rq-4vZdinxA/s1600/PB112755-2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-nW6XyGTm6qQ/VF70DvZzTLI/AAAAAAAAA4o/Rq-4vZdinxA/s1600/PB112755-2.jpg" height="356" width="640" /></span></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Without wasting time, I walked to the bamboo forest as it is the must see place in Arashiyama! </span><br />
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-3oFvQ-NC2vI/VF70d7GAAHI/AAAAAAAAA4w/YrkkDxK6r4U/s1600/PB112778-3-2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-3oFvQ-NC2vI/VF70d7GAAHI/AAAAAAAAA4w/YrkkDxK6r4U/s1600/PB112778-3-2.jpg" height="640" width="385" /></span></a></div>
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Le bear happily took a picture at the bamboo forest. </span><br />
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-7V_vReJb2QU/VF70fNWgprI/AAAAAAAAA44/aKPFai7NcG4/s1600/PB112775-3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-7V_vReJb2QU/VF70fNWgprI/AAAAAAAAA44/aKPFai7NcG4/s1600/PB112775-3.jpg" height="640" width="360" /></span></a></div>
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I was alone at the forest until this couple walk into my picture. </span><br />
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-CEXaW3lL-uY/VF70of1DDiI/AAAAAAAAA5A/IpjYtxLZt_0/s1600/PB112791-2-2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-CEXaW3lL-uY/VF70of1DDiI/AAAAAAAAA5A/IpjYtxLZt_0/s1600/PB112791-2-2.jpg" height="360" width="640" /></span></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I've tried asking them to take a picture of me at the bamboo forest but they commented that it is a difficult task after trying a few shots. I think that's when I miss travelling with another human. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">After exiting Bamboo Forest, I took the Sagano Scenic Train(only available in Autumn & Spring) from Arashiyama Station. I strongly suggest that you should ride the train from this station as you can rarely see tourist here and it will be easier to get a seat at the 5th cubicle. Ticket can be purchased at 600Y (~$6). </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">So, what's so special about the 5th cubicle? It's a fully open carriage, which means you can take very good pictures!</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">You might want to refer to the timetable so that you can arrange your time.</span></div>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-jjg2Jn1GVZQ/VF8BhOHWqNI/AAAAAAAAA6Y/p1fKfEDgETo/s1600/timetable-2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-jjg2Jn1GVZQ/VF8BhOHWqNI/AAAAAAAAA6Y/p1fKfEDgETo/s1600/timetable-2.jpg" height="225" width="320" /></span></a></div>
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<span style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">While waiting for the magical ride at the station. </span></span></div>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-zXR0WOt2dx4/VF71MKIxQCI/AAAAAAAAA5Q/0ZI86S50h_s/s1600/PB112812-3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-zXR0WOt2dx4/VF71MKIxQCI/AAAAAAAAA5Q/0ZI86S50h_s/s1600/PB112812-3.jpg" height="360" width="640" /></span></a></div>
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">The train have arrived! </span><br />
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-CbtPNGiqTPQ/VF71DC2O_yI/AAAAAAAAA5I/J5GR6qsPza4/s1600/PB112832-2-2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-CbtPNGiqTPQ/VF71DC2O_yI/AAAAAAAAA5I/J5GR6qsPza4/s1600/PB112832-2-2.jpg" height="360" width="640" /></span></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">It was really nice seeing scenery from the train. I wished the the
momiji was more scenic during that time. It will be really nice to see the
momiji from the train. </span></div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-QVbsJQYanfw/VF71rwcEOTI/AAAAAAAAA5c/UsMPLQhTiGk/s1600/PB112868-2-2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-QVbsJQYanfw/VF71rwcEOTI/AAAAAAAAA5c/UsMPLQhTiGk/s1600/PB112868-2-2.jpg" height="360" width="640" /></span></a></div>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Tp_14jKEMKY/VF71_uld77I/AAAAAAAAA50/m0pQxbT0I0I/s1600/PB112874-4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Tp_14jKEMKY/VF71_uld77I/AAAAAAAAA50/m0pQxbT0I0I/s1600/PB112874-4.jpg" height="360" width="640" /></span></a></div>
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<span style="text-align: start;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">There is another option which is to take the boat tour which is more expensive (3800 Yen ~$38). I would like to try that when I return to Arashiyama one day :D</span></span></div>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-FsBhO9H9HXs/VF76XxI_2iI/AAAAAAAAA6A/vMHLAJgb-w0/s1600/PB112881-2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-FsBhO9H9HXs/VF76XxI_2iI/AAAAAAAAA6A/vMHLAJgb-w0/s1600/PB112881-2.jpg" height="360" width="640" /></span></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">The train will stop at Komeoka Torokko Station and there were so many people waiting to board the scenic train to Arashiyama. I was glad that I took the train from the other station. Hence, if you are using Kansai Thru Pass, you might want to consider the same route as me unless you are using JR pass. </span></div>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-M8-bCgxbCuA/VF77jwuHosI/AAAAAAAAA6I/UkXf4B-4o7w/s1600/PB112890-2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-M8-bCgxbCuA/VF77jwuHosI/AAAAAAAAA6I/UkXf4B-4o7w/s1600/PB112890-2.jpg" height="360" width="640" /></span></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Then, I took the JR train from JR Umahori back to JR Saga-Arashiyama. Umahori station is only 10 mins walk away from Komeoka Torokko Station. </span></div>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-FROWcw1FrDU/VF8CRVZLLhI/AAAAAAAAA6g/jmGUlYbFSMw/s1600/JR%2Bstn-2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-FROWcw1FrDU/VF8CRVZLLhI/AAAAAAAAA6g/jmGUlYbFSMw/s1600/JR%2Bstn-2.jpg" height="360" width="640" /></span></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Once I'm back in the town, the crowd have started to fill the town. I bought the matcha soy ice-cream at 400Yen and croquette at 200Yen. I think I had the best croquette in Aarashiyama. :P</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Unfortunately, it rained before I get to explore the town. I ran to the nearby Randen station and
depart for Takao instead of spending more time in Arashiyama. I will definitely go back again for the temples and scenery next time. I hope you don't have to wait too long for the next Japan post! :P</span></div>
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MiqTravellershttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13151774118341548775noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1064364197243147391.post-9849402526835217852014-10-11T13:34:00.000+08:002014-10-11T13:34:16.509+08:00Vietnam Travel Guide <div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I have been to the north and south of Vietnam but not the middle part.
Hence, this is not the complete guide. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">If you have been to the Vietnam, you will agree with me that the north
and south are very different people. However, they are still the same nice
people. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<!--[endif]--><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b>Transportation </b><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b>Taxi:</b> It is wise to use Mai Linh (Green/White) and Vinasun taxi service when you are in
Vietnam. There are three types of car: the small one (where you practically
have no space for luggage), the sedan and a bigger car. The smaller it is, the
cheaper the fare is for per kilometre. I realize that a lot of people are not
aware of this but I always choose the smallest car as it is cheaper than the
rest. <o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b>Motortaxi: </b>Travelling alone but you couldn't ride a motorbike? I think this is the best tool invented for tourist. For me, hire a taxi is too expensive but I don't know how to ride a bike. The easiest solution is to hire a motortaxi! If you are lucky, you might be able to find someone who can speak English and able to story you about the place. A one day tour will cost 150k-200k VND per day. At places like Dalat, a one day tour can cost around 20 USD per day. It will be better for you to have an idea of where you want to go so that you can negotiate with the driver. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b>Bus: </b><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">For public bus, they do announce the name of the stations but in
Vietnamese language. Taking public transport is the cheapest transportation in
Vietnam. You should really use the public bus in Saigon as the bus fare is as
low as 0.20-0.30 USD per trip for intercity bus. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br />
<!--[endif]--><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">If you want to travel out of the city, you can either book a seat at the
local travel agency or take the local bus. I recommend <a href="https://www.thesinhtourist.vn/">Sinh Tourist</a> for local
tour as they are very reliable. If you are feeling adventurous, you can try
their local bus company. I used Phuong Trang (pronounced as Fong Jang) to
travel from Saigon to Mui Ne last December and it was really good. They have
buses scheduled every hour which is good as tour agency have limited choices
for the time slot. Phuong Trang is the biggest bus company in the South and
their buses and van are all in good condition. I find the quality is way
better than the buses you booked from hostel/guesthouse. Furthermore, they
stop at proper rest area for toilet breaks. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-gttp9a1px1Y/U0YCq_V7b-I/AAAAAAAAApg/3X-ZaHmABm8/s1600/20131228_114643.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-gttp9a1px1Y/U0YCq_V7b-I/AAAAAAAAApg/3X-ZaHmABm8/s1600/20131228_114643.jpg" height="300" width="400" /></span></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b>What to buy? </b><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Vietnam is the best place to purchase Hada Labo skin care and Sunplay sunblock!
This is because these products were manufactured in Vietnam and the price is
2-3 times lower than other South East Asia countries. Furthermore, you can find
cheap traditional medicinal oil too! If you happen to be at the tribal village, you might want to purchase some handmade souvenir. A handmade clutch will cost around 35k VND (~$1.8 USD). </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b>What to eat? </b><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">The best thing about travelling in Vietnam is their food! It’s very
delicious as they rarely use artificial coloring and flavouring in their
cooking. However, it is very difficult to find vegetarian or Halal food in
Vietnam as almost every dish involves meat. Like in Thailand, there’s always a
bowl of fresh vegetable on the table. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Spring rolls and Pho are the common food in Vietnam. Don’t miss out Banh
Xeo when you are in Saigon and Bun Cha when you are in Hanoi! You can't afford to say ‘I will only try this in other region’. The rule of thumb is
people from different region eat different food with the exception for Pho and
spring rolls. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b>Accomodation </b><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">One good thing about travelling in Vietnam is that you can easily find a
decent room with ensuited bathroom at the price of USD 8. However, these
guesthouse are located a bit far from the tourist spot. I usually trust Trip
Advisor for reviews. However,I will recommend you to check the room before
making a decision. This is extremely important as I have seen workers who sleep
in the guestroom before the visitors arrived.It will be good to stick with
lonely planet if you prefer the staffs to speak good English as the guesthouse
recommended by lonely planet can cost a few USD more.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b>Language </b><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Most young adults speak decent English but they are too shy to speak up.
You can’t expect a middle age man/woman to speak with you in English. People at
their age only learn English for their living. However, it is wise to use basic
English word. Google translate can be quite useful when it comes to
communicating with the local. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; line-height: 115%;"><b>To buy simcard or not</b></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; line-height: 115%;">If you must buy the sim card, please don't buy it at the airport. Frankly speaking, Vietnamese are very generous with their Wifi service. Almost every shop provides free wifi service and some does not require any password! Hence, do think twice when you want to purchase a sim card at VN.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; line-height: 115%;"><br /><b>Navigate </b><!--[endif]--></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; line-height: 115%;">The easiest way to navigate around is by using a map/google map! Trust me, VN is not a place where you can easily catch someone who can speak little/good english on the road. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; line-height: 115%;"><b>Travelling from Airport </b></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; line-height: 115%;">Saigon: Catch a A/C local bus (#152) out of the airport and get off at the last station. You will find yourself at the bus stop located opposite Ben Thanh market. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; line-height: 115%;">Hanoi: There's a few option to the city center. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; line-height: 115%;">a) Minivan </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span style="line-height: 18.3999996185303px;">Once you exit from the arrival hall, turn right and walk to the end. They charged 40k VND per trip and they will drop you off at the city center. They will drop you off at Quang Trung street. </span></span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">b) Local Bus (Red & Yellow- #7 & #17)</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">They charged 7000VND per trip. I would recommend bus #17 as it will stop at Long Bien bus station which is nearer to Old Quarters. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: xx-small;"><span style="line-height: 18.3999996185303px;"><br /></span></span>
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: xx-small;"><span style="line-height: 18.3999996185303px;">Disclaimer: The author has been to Vietnam for four times in the past 4 years and most of the information are up-to-date. </span></span>MiqTravellershttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13151774118341548775noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1064364197243147391.post-66656230645923797272014-02-25T14:31:00.000+08:002014-02-25T14:31:39.582+08:00How to fully utilize your Kansai Thru Pass 3 Day Pass<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-G0rbAm9-4Lc/Uww3-BliHmI/AAAAAAAAApI/bo6KhuZKy0Q/s1600/passcard.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-G0rbAm9-4Lc/Uww3-BliHmI/AAAAAAAAApI/bo6KhuZKy0Q/s1600/passcard.jpg" height="131" width="320" /></a></div>
<b style="font-weight: normal;"><span style="background-color: #fbfcfd; color: #484848; font-family: Arial; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Some people commented that it is not worth buying KTP. However, you can save a lot by using the Kansai Thru Pass if you did your research. </span></b><br />
<b style="font-weight: normal;"><span style="background-color: #fbfcfd; color: #484848; font-family: Arial; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"></span></b><br />
<b style="font-weight: normal;"><span style="background-color: #fbfcfd; color: #484848; font-family: Arial; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">It is never wise to use KTP if you plan to travel around Kyoto while staying at Kyoto. You have to travel across the prefecture to make it useful.</span></b><br />
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</b>
<br />
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.15; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<b style="font-weight: normal;"><span style="background-color: #fbfcfd; color: #484848; font-family: Arial; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">I used google map to plan my route as it will tell me how to get to the place using the rail and bus. However, I think physical map is quite useful but you have to know how to read a map well.</span></b></div>
<b>
</b><br />
<b></b><br />
<b><div dir="ltr" style="font-weight: normal; line-height: 1.15; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: #fbfcfd; color: #484848; font-family: Arial; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">The thing about the Kansai Thru Pass is that you can leave as early as possible as the pass worked from 12:01am of the day till 11:59pm of the day. I start my journey quite early every day as I wanted to avoid the crowd at the tourist place.</span><br />
<span style="background-color: #fbfcfd; color: #484848; font-family: Arial;"></span> </div>
<div dir="ltr" style="font-weight: normal; line-height: 1.15; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: #fbfcfd; color: #484848; font-family: Arial; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">To make sure that you fully utilize the pass, you have to spend <em><strong><span style="color: #e06666;">an average of 1670Y per day</span></strong></em>.</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="font-weight: normal; line-height: 1.15; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: #fbfcfd; color: #484848; font-family: Arial; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">If you follow my itinerary well, you can easily <span style="color: #cc0000;"><strong>save up to 4560Y</strong></span> (Appx 50 USD).</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="font-weight: normal; line-height: 1.15; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: #fbfcfd; color: #484848; font-family: Arial; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"></span><br />
<span style="background-color: #fbfcfd; color: #484848; font-family: Arial; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">I paid 5000 Yen for a 3 Days Kansai Thru Pass but I've actually spent at least 9560Yen in total! How awesome is that? </span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="font-weight: normal; line-height: 1.15; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: #fbfcfd; color: #484848; font-family: Arial; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"></span><br />
<span style="background-color: #fbfcfd; color: #484848; font-family: Arial; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Here’s how I did it. </span><br />
<span style="background-color: #fbfcfd; color: #484848; font-family: Arial; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"></span><br />
<span style="background-color: #fbfcfd; color: #cc0000; font-family: Arial; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><strong>Day 1: </strong></span><span style="background-color: #fbfcfd; color: #484848; font-family: Arial; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><strong><span style="color: #cc0000;">Osaka-Arashiyama-Takao-Osaka (2340Yen)</span></strong> </span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="font-weight: normal; line-height: 1.15; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: #fbfcfd; color: #484848; font-family: Arial; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: underline; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><br /></span>
<span style="background-color: #fbfcfd; color: #484848; font-family: Arial; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: underline; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Osaka- Arashiyama </span><span style="background-color: #fbfcfd; color: #484848; font-family: Arial; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"> </span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="font-weight: normal; line-height: 1.15; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: #fbfcfd; color: #484848; font-family: Arial; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Shinsaibashi station – Umeda Stn<span style="color: purple;"><span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space: pre;"> </span></span><span style="color: #444444;">230Y</span></span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="font-weight: normal; line-height: 1.15; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: #fbfcfd; color: #484848; font-family: Arial; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Umeda Stn (Hankyu) – Interchange at Katsura Station – Arashiyama Stn <span style="color: #444444;">390Y</span></span><br />
<span style="background-color: #fbfcfd; color: #484848; font-family: Arial; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"></span> </div>
<div dir="ltr" style="font-weight: normal; line-height: 1.15; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: #fbfcfd; color: #484848; font-family: Arial; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: underline; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Arashiyama- Takao</span><span style="background-color: #fbfcfd; color: #484848; font-family: Arial; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"> </span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="font-weight: normal; line-height: 1.15; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: #fbfcfd; color: #484848; font-family: Arial; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Arashiyama Randen Stn – Randentenjingawa Stn <span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space: pre;"> </span><span style="color: #444444;">200Y</span></span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="font-weight: normal; line-height: 1.15; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: #fbfcfd; color: #484848; font-family: Arial; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Randentenjingawa Stn – Takao by Bus #8 at Platform A <span style="color: #444444;">400Y</span></span></div>
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<span style="background-color: #fbfcfd; color: #484848; font-family: Arial; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><br /></span>
<span style="background-color: #fbfcfd; color: #484848; font-family: Arial; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><u>Takao-Osaka</u></span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="font-weight: normal; line-height: 1.15; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: #fbfcfd; color: #484848; font-family: Arial; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Takao- Karasuma Stn by bus #8 <span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space: pre;"> </span>500Y</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="font-weight: normal; line-height: 1.15; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: #fbfcfd; color: #484848; font-family: Arial; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Karasuma Stn –Tengachaya Stn 390Y</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="font-weight: normal; line-height: 1.15; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: #fbfcfd; color: #484848; font-family: Arial; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Tengachaya Stn-Shinsaibashi Stn<span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space: pre;"> </span>230Y</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="font-weight: normal; line-height: 1.15; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: #fbfcfd; color: #484848; font-family: Arial; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Subway around Osaka</span><br />
<span style="background-color: #fbfcfd; color: #484848; font-family: Arial;"> </span></div>
<span style="font-size: x-small;">
</span><div dir="ltr" style="font-weight: normal; line-height: 1.15; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: #fbfcfd; color: #484848; font-family: Arial; font-size: x-small; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">If you travel from Arashiyama to Takao without KTP, you will need to pay extra for the bus fare as Takao is not included in the route of the 500Yen bus pass.</span></div>
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<span style="background-color: #fbfcfd; color: #cc0000; font-family: Arial;"><strong>Day 2: Osaka-Koyasan-Osaka-Kyoto-Osaka (3680 Yen)</strong></span></div>
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<span style="background-color: #fbfcfd; color: #484848; font-family: Arial; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">If you study the Kansai map, Kyoto is at the north of Osaka while Koyasan (Wakayama) is at the South of Osaka. It wasn’t as rush as I’ve expected but if you want to do this, you have to start the journey around 7am. Journey to Mount Koya will take approximately 2 hrs one way.</span><br />
<span style="background-color: #fbfcfd; color: #484848; font-family: Arial;"></span> </div>
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<span style="background-color: #fbfcfd; color: #484848; font-family: Arial; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">The best thing about travelling in Koyasan by using the KTP is that the cable car and bus fare is included in KTP. Hence, basically, you just need to pay for your food. If you are lazy, you can travel from one sight to another sight by bus. But, this is not necessary as Koyasan is quite small and it is very nice to walk around.</span><span style="background-color: #fbfcfd; color: #484848; font-family: Arial; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><br /></span><br />
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<span style="background-color: #fbfcfd; color: #484848; font-family: Arial; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><u>Osaka-Koyasan</u></span></div>
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<span style="background-color: #fbfcfd; color: #484848; font-family: Arial; line-height: 1.15; white-space: pre-wrap;">Osaka-Nanba 200Y</span></div>
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<span style="background-color: #fbfcfd; color: #484848; font-family: Arial; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Nanba (platform 4) - change train at Hashimoto (platform 5) to Gokurakubashi Stn (platform 4) 850Y </span></div>
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<span style="background-color: #fbfcfd; color: #484848; font-family: Arial; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Gokurakubashi Stn – Koyasan Stn 380Y </span></div>
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<span style="background-color: #fbfcfd; color: #484848; font-family: Arial; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Koyasan Stn – sights at Mount Koya by bus (200Y per trip)</span></div>
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<span style="background-color: #fbfcfd; color: #484848; font-family: Arial; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Koyasan-Osaka 1430Y</span></div>
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<span style="background-color: #fbfcfd; color: #484848; font-family: Arial; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">(return the same way)</span></div>
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<span style="background-color: #fbfcfd; color: #484848; font-family: Arial; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: underline; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><br /></span>
<span style="background-color: #fbfcfd; color: #484848; font-family: Arial; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: underline; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Osaka-Kyoto </span></div>
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<span style="background-color: #fbfcfd; color: #484848; font-family: Arial; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Shinsaibashi Stn-Kyobashi Stn 230Y</span></div>
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<span style="background-color: #fbfcfd; color: #484848; font-family: Arial; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Kyobashi Stn –Shichijo Stn 390Y</span></div>
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<span style="background-color: #fbfcfd; color: #484848; font-family: Arial; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Shichijo Stn- Hana Hostel by bus 200Y</span><br />
<span style="background-color: #fbfcfd; color: #484848; font-family: Arial;"></span><br />
<span style="background-color: #fbfcfd; color: #484848; font-family: Arial; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">I used the Keihan Main Line instead of JR. What’s the point of paying extra anyway? </span> <br />
<span style="background-color: #fbfcfd; color: #484848; font-family: Arial; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">P/S : JR Osaka-Kyoto cost 540Y one way</span><br />
<span style="background-color: #fbfcfd; color: #484848; font-family: Arial;"></span><span style="color: #3d85c6;"> </span></div>
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<span style="background-color: #fbfcfd; color: #3d85c6; font-family: Arial; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Mistake: KTP & Kyoto bus pass can only be used on the green color city bus! You can’t use it on Princess Line or whatsoever. I made this mistake and paid 200Y extra</span></div>
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<span style="background-color: #fbfcfd; color: #484848; font-family: Arial; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">I stayed at </span><span style="background-color: #fbfcfd; color: #484848; font-family: Arial; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Hana Hostel Kyoto.</span><span style="background-color: #fbfcfd; color: #484848; font-family: Arial; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"> I did ask the hostel staff if I can get to their hostel by using KTP. They recommended JR Line which cost 600Y for a one way ticket. But, I managed to find out that I can actually get to Kyoto via Keihan Main Line and use the local bus to the Kyoto Station.</span></div>
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<span style="background-color: #fbfcfd; color: #484848; font-family: Arial; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">You can actually take the city bus from Keihan Main Line Station to Kyoto Station using the city bus!</span></div>
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<span style="background-color: #fbfcfd; color: #cc0000; font-family: Arial; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><strong> </strong></span><br />
<span style="background-color: #fbfcfd; color: #484848; font-family: Arial;"><strong><span style="color: #cc0000;">Day 3: Kyoto-Osaka-Kurama-Kibune-Osaka</span></strong> </span><br />
<strong><u><span style="background-color: #fbfcfd; color: #484848; font-family: Arial;"></span></u></strong> </div>
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<span style="background-color: #fbfcfd; color: #484848; font-family: Arial; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: underline; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Kyoto-Osaka</span></div>
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<span style="background-color: #fbfcfd; color: #484848; font-family: Arial; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Shinsaibashi Stn-Kyobashi Stn 230Y</span></div>
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<span style="background-color: #fbfcfd; color: #484848; font-family: Arial; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Kyobashi Stn –Shichijo Stn 390Y</span></div>
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<span style="background-color: #fbfcfd; color: #484848; font-family: Arial; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Shichijo Stn- Hana Hostel by bus 200Y</span></div>
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<span style="background-color: #fbfcfd; color: #484848; font-family: Arial; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: underline; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><br /></span>
<span style="background-color: #fbfcfd; color: #484848; font-family: Arial; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: underline; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Osaka-Kurama</span></div>
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<span style="background-color: #fbfcfd; color: #484848; font-family: Arial; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Shinsaibashi Stn – Yodoyabashi Stn 200Y</span></div>
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<span style="background-color: #fbfcfd; color: #484848; font-family: Arial; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Yodoyabashi Stn –Demachiyanagi Stn 460Y </span></div>
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<span style="background-color: #fbfcfd; color: #484848; font-family: Arial; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Demachiyanagi Stn- Kurama Stn 410Y</span><br />
<span style="background-color: #fbfcfd; color: #484848; font-family: Arial;"></span> </div>
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<span style="background-color: #fbfcfd; color: #484848; font-family: Arial; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">I wanted to try out the hiking trail from Kurama-> Kibune but the local advise me not to as I was alone. You can either walk from Kurama Station to Kurama Jinja (Steep Slope and stairs) or take the cable car. I choose to walk as I will miss lots of place if I were to use the cable car. I walked up and took the cable car back to Kurama.</span><br />
<span style="background-color: #fbfcfd; color: #484848; font-family: Arial;"></span> </div>
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<span style="background-color: #fbfcfd; color: #484848; font-family: Arial; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">From Kurama, I took the train to Kibune Station 200Y</span></div>
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<span style="background-color: #fbfcfd; color: #484848; font-family: Arial; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">From Kibune, I took the bus to Kibune Jinja 160Y</span></div>
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<span style="background-color: #fbfcfd; color: #484848; font-family: Arial; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Well, you can walk if you are not using KTP. It is around 1-2km from the bus station.</span></div>
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<span style="background-color: #fbfcfd; color: #484848; font-family: Arial; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: underline; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Kibune-Osaka</span></div>
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<span style="background-color: #fbfcfd; color: #484848; font-family: Arial; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Kibune Jinja – Kibune guchi Eki 160Y</span></div>
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<span style="background-color: #fbfcfd; color: #484848; font-family: Arial; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Kibuneguchi Eki – Demachiyanagi Stn 410Y</span></div>
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<span style="background-color: #fbfcfd; color: #484848; font-family: Arial; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Demachiyanagi Stn –Yodoyabashi Stn 460Y</span></div>
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<span style="background-color: #fbfcfd; color: #484848; font-family: Arial; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Yodoyabashi – Shinsaibashi Stn 200Y</span><br />
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<span style="background-color: #fbfcfd; color: #484848; font-family: Arial;"><strong><span style="color: #cc0000;">Where to buy the pass?</span></strong> </span><br />
<span style="background-color: #fbfcfd; color: #484848; font-family: Arial;"></span><br />
<span style="background-color: #fbfcfd; color: #484848; font-family: Arial;">You can get it at Kansai airport or Tourist Information Center. For more information, please click <a href="http://www.surutto.com/tickets/kansai_thru_english.html">here</a>. </span></div>
</b><br />MiqTravellershttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13151774118341548775noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1064364197243147391.post-52749510560950568342014-01-24T10:46:00.000+08:002014-04-10T10:39:40.037+08:00Kansai 10D9N Itinerary 关西十天行程<b id="docs-internal-guid-6709c1ff-798d-f96b-05c4-bcde8cf149b1" style="font-weight: normal;"><span style="background-color: #fbfcfd; color: #484848; font-family: Arial; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Hello readers! </span></b><br />
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<b id="docs-internal-guid-6709c1ff-798d-f96b-05c4-bcde8cf149b1" style="font-weight: normal;"><span style="background-color: #fbfcfd; color: #484848; font-family: Arial; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Going to Kansai but don't know where to start? </span></b></div>
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<span style="background-color: #fbfcfd; color: #484848; font-family: Arial; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">You will be pleased to know that we are sharing our Kansai 10D9N itinerary! </span></div>
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<span style="background-color: #fbfcfd; color: #484848; font-family: Arial; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">We've covered 4 places namely Osaka, Kyoto, Mount Koya and Kurama. It might look simple but we have spent a lot of our time on our research. We can tell you what to do in Kansai if you have 10 days, where to go in Kansai and how we saved on our transportation.</span></div>
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<span style="background-color: #fbfcfd; color: #484848; font-family: Arial; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">If you love what you are reading, please help us to share our love around ;) </span><br />
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<span style="background-color: #fbfcfd; color: #484848; font-family: Arial; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><strong>Day 1</strong></span></div>
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<span style="background-color: #fbfcfd; color: #484848; font-family: Arial; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Arrive at Kansai International Airport (KIX). Got my Osaka Unlimited Pass & Kansai Thru Pass at the visitor counter.</span></div>
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<span style="background-color: #fbfcfd; color: #484848; font-family: Arial; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Checked in at Osaka Hana Hostel. </span></div>
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<span style="background-color: #fbfcfd; color: #484848; font-family: Arial; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">The main idea was to travel around Osaka, using Osaka Unlimited Pass (OUP) on the first 2 days as I have to use the pass for 2 days consecutively. Due to time constrain, I only went to places with free admission:</span></div>
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<span style="background-color: #fbfcfd; color: #484848; font-family: Arial; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Osaka Museum of Housing and Living</span></div>
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<span style="background-color: #fbfcfd; color: #484848; font-family: Arial; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Cruise Ship Santa Maria</span></div>
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<span style="background-color: #fbfcfd; color: #484848; font-family: Arial; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Tempozan Ferris Wheel </span></div>
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<span style="background-color: #fbfcfd; color: #484848; font-family: Arial; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">HEP 5 Ferries Wheel </span></div>
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<span style="background-color: #fbfcfd; color: #484848; font-family: Arial; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Floating Garden Observatory </span></div>
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<span style="background-color: #fbfcfd; color: #484848; font-family: Arial; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Tombori River Cruise </span><br />
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ZjAhn9kcoZA/UvhR6TOtAdI/AAAAAAAAAns/HvogGn3K2Sc/s1600/PB082487_wm_2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ZjAhn9kcoZA/UvhR6TOtAdI/AAAAAAAAAns/HvogGn3K2Sc/s1600/PB082487_wm_2.jpg" height="360" width="640" /></a></div>
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<span style="background-color: #fbfcfd; color: #484848; font-family: Arial; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><strong>Day 2</strong></span></div>
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<span style="background-color: #fbfcfd; color: #484848; font-family: Arial; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Osaka Castle Museum</span></div>
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<span style="background-color: #fbfcfd; color: #484848; font-family: Arial; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Osaka Castle Nishinomaru Garden </span></div>
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<span style="background-color: #fbfcfd; color: #484848; font-family: Arial; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Osaka Museum of History </span><br />
<span style="background-color: #fbfcfd; color: #484848; font-family: Arial; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><span style="background-color: #fbfcfd; color: #484848; font-family: Arial; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Shintennoji Temple </span></span><br />
<span style="background-color: #fbfcfd; color: #484848; font-family: Arial; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><span style="background-color: #fbfcfd; color: #484848; font-family: Arial; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Tennoji Zoo </span></span><br />
<span style="background-color: #fbfcfd; color: #484848; font-family: Arial; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"></span><span style="background-color: #fbfcfd; color: #484848; font-family: Arial; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Natural Hot Spring Naniwa no Yu</span></div>
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<span style="background-color: #fbfcfd; color: #484848; font-family: Arial; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Additional place: Shinseikai and Shinsaibashi (Not included in OUP) </span><br />
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-m-iinjHG1nA/UviIxs6Bk6I/AAAAAAAAAo0/9ou1ddh7ijs/s1600/20131109_105036_1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-m-iinjHG1nA/UviIxs6Bk6I/AAAAAAAAAo0/9ou1ddh7ijs/s1600/20131109_105036_1.jpg" height="640" width="468" /></a></div>
<span style="background-color: #fbfcfd; color: #484848; font-family: Arial; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><br /></span><span style="background-color: #fbfcfd; color: #484848; font-family: Arial; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><strong>Day 3</strong> </span></div>
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<span style="background-color: #fbfcfd; color: #484848; font-family: Arial; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Traveled out of the city for two interesting museum:</span></div>
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<span style="background-color: #fbfcfd; color: #484848; font-family: Arial; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Instant Ramen Museum- you can make your own cup noodle for 300Y. </span></div>
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<span style="background-color: #fbfcfd; color: #484848; font-family: Arial; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Asahi Beer Museum- you will be introduced to the whole beer process making and get 3 free drinks (alcoholic and non alcoholic beverages) at the end of the visit. </span></div>
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<span style="background-color: #fbfcfd; color: #484848; font-family: Arial; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Explored Nanba Area </span></div>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-KHchPexpLko/UvhST50r4jI/AAAAAAAAAn0/Ag_eNlm1xAk/s1600/PB102629_wm_1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-KHchPexpLko/UvhST50r4jI/AAAAAAAAAn0/Ag_eNlm1xAk/s1600/PB102629_wm_1.jpg" height="360" width="640" /></a></div>
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<span style="background-color: #fbfcfd; color: #484848; font-family: Arial; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Arashiyama & Takao</span></div>
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<span style="background-color: #fbfcfd; color: #484848; font-family: Arial; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Tenjinbashisuji Walking Street </span></div>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-IpPNeNu5w0Q/UvhSoZtNyhI/AAAAAAAAAn8/YpXNtSr4_10/s1600/PB112742_wm_1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-IpPNeNu5w0Q/UvhSoZtNyhI/AAAAAAAAAn8/YpXNtSr4_10/s1600/PB112742_wm_1.jpg" height="360" width="640" /></a></div>
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<span style="background-color: #fbfcfd; color: #484848; font-family: Arial; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Mount Koya </span></div>
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<span style="background-color: #fbfcfd; color: #484848; font-family: Arial; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><br /></span>
<span style="background-color: #fbfcfd; color: #484848; font-family: Arial; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Then traveled to Kyoto for the following 2 days.</span></div>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-I-Crc_JVOJo/UvhS1lLHT9I/AAAAAAAAAoE/SAuVIdRTp1M/s1600/PB123074_wm_1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-I-Crc_JVOJo/UvhS1lLHT9I/AAAAAAAAAoE/SAuVIdRTp1M/s1600/PB123074_wm_1.jpg" height="360" width="640" /></a></div>
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<span style="background-color: #fbfcfd; color: #484848; font-family: Arial; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><strong>Day 6</strong></span></div>
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<span style="background-color: #fbfcfd; color: #484848; font-family: Arial; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Fushimi Inari ,Tofukuji, Kiyomizudera Temple, Higashiyama Walking Tour, Gion</span></div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-baeya8whkx4/UvhTFEhOiVI/AAAAAAAAAoM/_drAxObO9ag/s1600/PB133368_wm.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-baeya8whkx4/UvhTFEhOiVI/AAAAAAAAAoM/_drAxObO9ag/s1600/PB133368_wm.jpg" height="360" width="640" /></a></div>
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<span style="background-color: #fbfcfd; color: #484848; font-family: Arial; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Philosopher Path Walking Tour, Nishiki Market, Imohe Temple</span></div>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-wOGyEgZNhGE/UvhT3qX7j3I/AAAAAAAAAoU/clQIp6B1cSY/s1600/PB143908_wm_1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-wOGyEgZNhGE/UvhT3qX7j3I/AAAAAAAAAoU/clQIp6B1cSY/s1600/PB143908_wm_1.jpg" height="360" width="640" /></a></div>
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<span style="background-color: #fbfcfd; color: #484848; font-family: Arial; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Back in Osaka </span></div>
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<span style="background-color: #fbfcfd; color: #484848; font-family: Arial; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Kurama & Kibune</span></div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-7MoCmshTXxg/UviIL29Z9oI/AAAAAAAAAos/Zrql2qgnNJ4/s1600/PB154092_wm.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-7MoCmshTXxg/UviIL29Z9oI/AAAAAAAAAos/Zrql2qgnNJ4/s1600/PB154092_wm.jpg" height="360" width="640" /></a></div>
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<span style="background-color: #fbfcfd; color: #484848; font-family: Arial; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><strong>Day 9</strong> </span></div>
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<span style="background-color: #fbfcfd; color: #484848; font-family: Arial; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Kuramon Market </span></div>
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<span style="background-color: #fbfcfd; color: #484848; font-family: Arial; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><strong>Day 10</strong></span><br />
<span style="background-color: #fbfcfd; color: #484848; font-family: Arial; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Back to Malaysia</span><br />
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<span style="background-color: #fbfcfd; color: #484848; font-family: Arial; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"></span><br />
<span style="background-color: #fbfcfd; color: #484848; font-family: Arial; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">*Didn't managed to go up as the queue was very long and the waiting time was 1 hour. You should make Tsutenkaku Tower the first thing to do in Osaka during weekends.</span><br />
<span style="background-color: #fbfcfd; color: #484848; font-family: Arial;"></span><br />
<span style="background-color: #fbfcfd; color: #484848; font-family: Arial;">Details will be up soon! </span></b><br />
<br />MiqTravellershttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13151774118341548775noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1064364197243147391.post-65758653936327059922014-01-07T20:57:00.000+08:002014-01-07T20:59:51.093+08:00Travelling Solo I never thought of doing solo backpacking this year. <br />
However, after listening to my friend's experience in Japan, I have the courage to do the exactly same trip as her. <br />
The opportunity came as MAS was having promotion and I booked the ticket on the very last day!<br />
<span style="font-size: x-small;">The trip won't be a success without the help of ryn and my friend.</span> <br />
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So, how was it?<br />
It was great! <span style="font-size: x-small;">*Except that nobody will be there to help you take picture*</span><br />
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My friends were telling me how great it is to have the courage to travel alone. It wasn't difficult until you finally do it. Frankly speaking, I met a more girls who travelled alone compared to guys during my trip. I think girls nowadays do have more courage than guys ;)<br />
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One thing about travelling alone is you have the flexibility of changing plans all the time. I don't know what will I be doing the next day until late evening when I have time to do some research about it. Moreover, you will find it easier to listen to the advice of other travelers and make changes to your plan. Anyway, the only person you need to ask is yourself. <br />
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Another thing which I enjoy very much about travelling alone is the absolute freedom. I get to follow my rhythm, desires and my pace. I think I'm already addicted to the feeling of it. <3<br />
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Trust your gut feelings all the time! If you feel like going to the park today, you should just do it. I learned a lot about trusting myself and my gut feelings. I always find something awesome by trusting my gut feelings.<br />
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However, it is always good to take safety measure especially when you are a girl. It's good to check out hostel reviews and some feedback from Trip Advisor beforehand. Imagine arriving in the city at late night without pre-book accommodation, it is always wiser to have a few backup plans in hand. I have learned my lesson well in Vietnam last week. If you are planning to visit during the peak season, always book your accommodation earlier. <br />
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Remember, always keep a low profile. You won't want to attract unnecessary attention from pickpockets and etc. Safety should come first before anything else. <br />
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Tell us why do you like about travelling solo! <br />
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P/S: If you are still thinking if you should travel alone, just do it! You will be glad that you make the decision =)<br />
<span style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; background-color: white; color: black; display: inline !important; float: none; font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font: 18px/28.07px Georgia, Times, "Times New Roman", serif; letter-spacing: normal; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px;"></span><br />MiqTravellershttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13151774118341548775noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1064364197243147391.post-11994365831808323442014-01-03T22:19:00.000+08:002014-01-07T20:56:06.436+08:00Trip planning 101 I'm not sure if this is something to do with age. But, I can't handle tedious planning anymore. I hate reading the same information again and again <span style="font-size: x-small;">(because everyone is writing about the same thing)</span> while hoping that someone has a totally different experience. It's nice to have their advice in mind but I would prefer to write my version of stories. <br />
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I tried to plan for my first solo backpacking trip but it didn't work. I managed to find some information about Kansai and book my accommodation. I didn't know where I was going until I reach Japan. One thing about travelling during peak season is that always pre-book your hotel beforehand unless you have extra cash to spend. <br />
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Here's one you can do to avoid disappointment<br />
#1 Read and have a brief idea on places which you can go <br />
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#2 Talk to travelers at your guesthouse. <br />
<span style="font-size: x-small;">This is very useful if you are visiting during spring or autumn. They will tell you where are the places worth going. </span><br />
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#3 Talk to the tourist information center. <br />
<span style="font-size: x-small;">I meant the official one but not the tour agency. It's always better to refer to Trip Advisor compared to the tour agency.</span> <br />
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#4 Read up blogs from people who has similar interest as you. <br />
<span style="font-size: x-small;">As for most people, they might think that visiting a tropical fruit plantation or the Orang Utan sanctuary is interesting because they don't have it in their country. As for a Malaysian like me, I have seen all of these since young and I don't really bother going to these places.</span> <br />
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#5 Check the weather <br />
<span style="font-size: x-small;">It is very important to have the correct outfit especially the weather can be quite different throughout the country or region. </span><br />
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What are your planning tips? MiqTravellershttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13151774118341548775noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1064364197243147391.post-42276504944006638612013-09-22T16:27:00.000+08:002013-09-22T21:51:30.260+08:00Blue Fire at Ijen CraterHey guys! <br />
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Sorry for lack in updates. I just came back from Indonesia and I initially wanted to post this video on FB. Then, I realize that "Hey, why not blog about it and let everyone know about this?" According to Hendra (Indonesian), blue fire is a rare phenomena which only happens in Ijen Crater and Mexico. <br />
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">Blue fire is resulted from the combustion of liquid sulphur with fire. The molten sulphur burns after it drips from the stone and ceramic pipes that have condensed the sulphuric gases from the volcano into liquid. This will then cool down and harden to yellow block so that it will be collected by the miners.</span> <br />
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We realize that it is a very good opportunity to do the blue fire trip together with the sunrise trip. The only down side is we have to start the journey at 1am in the morning! We reach the base at around 1:40am and start hiking. You will definitely need a good pair of shoes and lots of clothes and the temperature is pretty low. You might need a walking stick to gain some support as the slope is pretty steep. To witness blue fire and sunrise, you will need to hire a local guide as it is pretty dangerous to hike in the dark. However, no guide is needed if you decide to hike during the day.<br />
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We were told that the entrance fee is Rp 27,000 but they made us pay Rp50,000 each. I'm not sure if this is a tourist scam or we have to pay extra because of the blue fire. By the way, we are already paying Rp200,000 extra per person in addition to the tour (Rp500,000). The tourist who joined 3D2N Bromo+Ijen tour paid only Rp650,000 (Transportation and hotel included). I definitely paid extra than the rest but it was worth it!<br />
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I didn't get to take good pictures as the sulphur smoke keep coming out from the lake. But here's a short video taken by using Canon Ixus 100. <br />
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<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="//www.youtube-nocookie.com/embed/kzPhC379q6A?rel=0" width="420"></iframe>
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More sunrise post will be coming up next! I promise! MiqTravellershttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13151774118341548775noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1064364197243147391.post-13315974653364513372012-12-04T22:03:00.000+08:002012-12-04T22:03:08.908+08:00What to do in Bangkok?<div style="text-align: justify;">
I was frequently asked over the past few months with the same question, and had to give the same lengthy explanation over and over again.</div>
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'WHAT EXACTLY SHOULD ONE DO IN BANGKOK?'</div>
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Well, perhaps you can start off by reading <a href="http://miqtravellers.blogspot.com/search/label/Thailand">these</a> and <a href="http://pabome.blogspot.com/search/label/Thailand">these</a> (written by the bear). </div>
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My first trip to Bangkok was in year 2010. After spending 5 days in Bangkok, I realize that it wasn't enough to fulfill my curiosity. Given that, I return for another visit in which I stayed for 2 weeks last year. My friends were curious as to how I could spend such a long time just in Bangkok. I personally think that one could easily be distracted and stray off path from the initial plan as there so many things to discover in Bangkok, this coming from my personal experiences. </div>
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<span style="background-color: white;">On my second trip, I opted to stay out of the city for a week. I stayed at Banglamphu area where all the major attractions are situated at. Believe it or not, I did not meet any Malaysians during my stay away from the city. During my last 2 night in Bangkok, I moved to the city for a different experience. When I first stepped into the shopping mall, I could hear 'Manglish' all over the places and manage to meet people from KL and etc. It is then that I discovered that the main intention of Malaysian visiting Bangkok is solely to shop. Surely, Bangkok is like a shopping paradise for everyone. Even the non-shopaholic will go crazy because you can easily find unique handicraft or souvenirs along the street at affordable prices.</span></div>
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In order to guide you about Bangkok, you will need to asked yourself about the type of traveler you are. Are you someone who are into culture and the local lifestyle or you are someone who adores city life as well as the shopping scene? Generally when I travel, my itinerary will be focus on culture and attractions. However, I could be the later type of traveler depending on the cities. Personally, Bangkok is just not about the city or cheap shopping deal. In my opinion, Bangkok is not as dangerous as Malaysia and possessed unique culture worth taking an interest in.</div>
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<span style="background-color: white;">There's so much to see and learn in Bangkok if you have the time to do so. If you want to do a quick culture tour, you can go to <strong>Ratanakosin</strong> gallery which is located near the National Monument. This place can give you an overview about the country and the people. I was there in August and the locals were surprised as to why I would asked directions to go there. They assumed that tourist will only be interested in places like the Grand Palace,Wat Pho and Wat Arun. To my surprise, all visitors were locals and my sis and I were like the <em>"farang" </em>there. An interesting info about the place is that there's a mini library inside the gallery where you can browse books and surf the internet for free. But, you need to show them the entrance ticket for admission. I personally enjoyed the library very much as it was very cozy and comfortable. I'll blog about the library later. *finger crossed*</span></div>
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<span style="background-color: white;">I</span><span style="background-color: white;">f you are on a tight budget, don't worry as there's a lot of things to see and it's free. I think I will need to write a separate guide on this. For people who love the city, I think you can spend at least a day exploring the cultural things and the rest of your trip exploring the city as well as well as enjoying the night life and city lights. There are few nice cafes and restaurant on Phra Atit road which is frequent by the locals but not the tourist. I really like the settings there.</span></div>
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<span style="background-color: white;">Maybe, instead of visiting the Skybar everytime you visit Bangkok, if this is what you have been doing all the time. W</span><span style="background-color: white;">hy don't you spend some time discovering the local culture? Then you will have a different story to tell your friends other than what you have purchased from your trip. Your friends might be impressed with your newly discovered places and maybe you could explore a few good cafes for yourself to share with us. Perhaps it's time to change your ideas about Bangkok and be different for a change.</span></div>
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<span style="background-color: #ffe599;"><div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="background-color: white;">I know a lot of you will probably be interested to know how much money is need for a trip in Bangkok.</span></div>
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<span style="background-color: white;">If you ask me, spending one week in Bangkok can be as low as 200 USD to 500 USD depending on how luxury want your trip to be and how much shopping you intend to do. </span></div>
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<span style="background-color: white;">I'll be writing new guides on this lovely city soon. Then, you can decide on the places do you could visit for your trip there. Drop us a comments if you wish to know on anything in particular. </span></div>
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<span style="background-color: white;">xx</span><br />
<br />MiqTravellershttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13151774118341548775noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1064364197243147391.post-33051522036097768632012-09-13T21:08:00.001+08:002012-09-13T21:13:32.358+08:00Kokret/Kokred- A getaway from Bangkok <span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; color: black; display: inline !important; float: none; letter-spacing: normal; orphans: 2; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px;">I first heard about Ko Kred was earlier this year when my Thai friend posted about it and she mentioned that she didn't know the existence about this island although she was born in Bangkok. This information triggered my interest somehow as it is definitely not touristy for sure. I've learned from travelling in SEA that there's a lot of leeches which try their best to suck your money. It's a rude comparison but it's true.</span><br />
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<span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; color: black; display: inline !important; float: none; letter-spacing: normal; orphans: 2; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px;"><u>How to get there?</u></span><br />
<span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; color: black; display: inline !important; float: none; letter-spacing: normal; orphans: 2; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px;">Take bus 32 from Pra Atit Road/Khao San road and stop at the KFC near Tesco Lotus at Pakred. You can also take any bus which goes to Pakred. I think you can also take a van from Victory Monument to Pakred too. From the KFC, turn into the junction and go straight and then turn left and you will see a temple on your right later. Go into the temple until you see the boat to Kokred. The cost is only 2 Bath. If you stopped at a private harbour, you need to pay 50Bath to cross the river. </span><br />
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-7u47Muk6DpU/UEixBRkSrPI/AAAAAAAAAlU/CASjcSQhKWY/s1600/IMG_7173_2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-7u47Muk6DpU/UEixBRkSrPI/AAAAAAAAAlU/CASjcSQhKWY/s400/IMG_7173_2.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; color: black; display: inline !important; float: none; letter-spacing: normal; orphans: 2; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px;"></span><br />
<span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; color: black; display: inline !important; float: none; letter-spacing: normal; orphans: 2; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px;">At Kokred, you can easily rent a bicycle at 40 Bath whole day or travel on foot which we did as I don't know how to ride a bicycle and I also read that the pavement is quite bad. Hence, walking is the best! We went there on Tuesday as we understand that it will be very crowded during the weekends as the locals will flood this little village. Hence, to avoid the crowd, we went there on weekdays instead. But, a local company brought all their staff there and it was flooded with people. Although only a few shops open for business but it was happening enough. I was expecting a quiet and peaceful village. But, they left very soon so no complains. </span><br />
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-f2JFRrCsvNA/UFHOi1GQNfI/AAAAAAAAAlk/EPtiyBkV1tw/s1600/kk3_1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-f2JFRrCsvNA/UFHOi1GQNfI/AAAAAAAAAlk/EPtiyBkV1tw/s400/kk3_1.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
I personally think that it is a nice village to walk around and take pictures. Or at least feel thes<br />
village which I love. It's very interesting to see. I'll show a few snapshots which I like from the village. <br />
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Since it is a pottery village, you should not miss drinking from this cute cup which only cost 25 Bath and you can bring the cup back after that. Well, I didn't buy it as it will be very troublesome to carry around. </div>
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If you happen to have extra time in Bangkok, do drop by at this place. It's easy to get around. Well, I didn't explore the whole island as I didn't know how to cycle. *facepalm* There's a lot of snacks and dessert around and it's nice. We didn't take much picture about it because we ate everything before it's too late. The potteries sold at KoKred is slighty cheaper than those sold at Chatukchak market. Hence, it will be a good place for shopping too. <br />
<span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; color: black; display: inline !important; float: none; letter-spacing: normal; orphans: 2; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px;"><span id="goog_947890649"></span><span id="goog_947890650"></span></span><br />MiqTravellershttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13151774118341548775noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1064364197243147391.post-86552284369617932012-08-07T10:42:00.000+08:002014-04-10T10:39:57.614+08:00Medan 5D4N transportation guide!Hi peeps ! <br />
Sorry to keep you waiting. <br />
Here's the guide for the 3rd largest city in Indonesia -Medan. <br />
I realize that there's not much guides about how to get to one place from another. So, let me help! I'll be doing reviews about the places later. <br />
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<u>Day 1</u><br />
Update: The new airport is at Kuala Namu which is 45 minutes away from the city center. <br />
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Arrive at Polonia Airport. <span style="font-size: x-small;">Note: They are going to shift the airport to a new place which is located an hour away from the city center.</span> <br />
Our friend fetch us to the Padang Bulan Bus Station but generally you can get a taxi at the Petronas Petrol Station which is located opposite the airport. The airport is so small and you don't have to walk that much. From <em>Padang Bulan Bus Station</em>, you can get to <strong>Berastagi</strong> at <strong><em>Rp 10,000</em></strong> only in a minibus (2 hours ride). The best seat is located next to the driver. At Berastagi (B), you can walk around the tugu Berastagi or use their angkot service. We went to Gundaling (G) by "Bintang Karo" angkot at the fee of Rp 3000 (B-G) and Rp 2000 (G-B). I've no idea why the fee is cheaper when we travel from Gundaling to Berastagi. <br />
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<u>Day 2</u><br />
We left Berastagi by local transportation again. Someone quote us Rp 450,000 for a car but we didn't take the deal as we think it is expensive as there's only 3 of us travelling together. Instead of a private car, we travelled from <em><strong>Berastagi to Kebanjahe</strong></em> (Karya Transport -Yellow van; <em><strong>Rp 3000- 30 mins</strong></em>) & from <em><strong>Kebanjahe to Siantar</strong></em> (Sepadan-blue van; <strong><em>Rp 20,000 -3 hrs</em></strong>). From Siantar, you can either travel by local minibus (<strong>Rp 10,000 -30 mins</strong>) or a shared taxi (<strong>Rp 15,000</strong>) to <strong>Parapat</strong>. We chose the later one as we are tired of smoking secondhand smoke.<br />
From Parapat, we took the ferry (<strong>Rp 7000</strong>) to Tuktuk. <br />
You can also travel from Siantar to Parapat by "Sejahtera bus". <br />
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<u>Day 3</u><br />
We rented a private van with driver at <strong>Rp 450,000 (RM 50)</strong> near Liberta Homestay as we don't know how to ride a motorbike. Motorbike rental is available at Rp80,000 or Rp 200,000 with driver. But make sure that you tell your driver where you want to go and make sure that he promise that he will take you the places you wish to go. It's good to survey about the places first & know where you want to go first before talking to the driver. <br />
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<u>Day 4</u><br />
We left Tuktuk for Parapat by the ferry. (<strong>Rp 7000</strong>) and shared the taxi from <strong>PT Bagus</strong> (near the Jetty) at only <strong>Rp 65,000</strong> per person for a 5 hours journey. We didn't ask the minibus/local bus as sitting in the bus for few hours is not so comfortable. <br />
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<u>Day 5</u><br />
We travelled mostly by becak around the city. Price should be around Rp15,000 to Rp 20,000. If they charge more, take the bluebird taxi instead! The town is very very small and you can reach most places by foot. Don't let the map fools you. <br />
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That's all from Medan and hope you enjoy your stay there! I'll do a review about the places there! :)MiqTravellershttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13151774118341548775noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1064364197243147391.post-53247314378422197512012-06-21T21:27:00.001+08:002012-06-21T21:34:26.007+08:00We're back and kicking!Hi all! Have you been missing us?<br />
Fred not, we are backkkkkk! <br />
The last few months was a "nightmare" ! But, we are almost done with studies! <br />
Graduation, here we come! <br />
Some of us are travelling now! How does South Korea sound to you? <br />
Please keep watching this space. It's going to be awesomeee!MiqTravellershttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13151774118341548775noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1064364197243147391.post-68476746387856889282011-12-16T18:34:00.000+08:002011-12-16T18:34:51.137+08:00Travel often, getting lost will help you find yourself =)They said <em>'Travel often, getting lost will help you find yourself.</em>'I believe that many people will agree with this statement. <br />
But, have you taken your first step to realize this little dream of yours?<br />
People often reply 'I don't have enough money.'<br />
Money shouldn't be an issue. <br />
I read this story from a 20 y.o girl who traveled Europe in 6 months with 300 Euros. She only brought that much of money to Europe and she thought she will only be there for 1 week. And yet, she made it! <br />
Sometimes, it is not the end of the road yet. <br />
We are the obstacle of our own issue. <br />
We just need to figure out a way to sustain ourselves. <br />
What are you waiting for? Start it small, be comfortable with the idea and start extend your boundaries. <br />
The world is our playground. <br />
Trust me, the knowledge and experience you gained through travelling is very valueable. <br />
A soul searching journey it is ! =) <br />
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Good luck everyone!MiqTravellershttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13151774118341548775noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1064364197243147391.post-70454393002932464762011-10-23T13:17:00.000+08:002012-11-13T20:15:50.748+08:00Traveling in South East Asia<span style="font-size: x-small;">Sorry for the lack in updates. We were busy with our final year projects. =(</span> <br />
<br />
Traveling in South East Asia is never easy. You will get the picture when you start doing your research. When I was reading the forums, I felt depress because what people shared was the scam they encountered. And people try hard to get as much as money they can from the tourist. It doesn't matter where you are from, as long as you are not a local, you are rich to them. <br />
Here are some guides to travel SEA countries. <br />
<br />
1. Read more about transportations. <br />
In Thailand, you have railways, motor taxi, bus, taxi and tuk-tuk. It's very difficult to know what's the reasonable price for a tuk-tuk ride. It seems cheap to us as our currency is higher. But, the best thing is to take a bus/taxi especially when you are travel in a huge group. Bus fare is very cheap in Bangkok. You can use the river transportation too. After a few trip to Bangkok, I think bus is the cheapest option around. The buses are very frequent and it is way better than skytrain. However, the red non-air-con bus cost 6 Bath while the air-conditioned bus cost 13-20 Bath. If you are on budget, take the red 54 bus rather than the white 54 bus! <br />
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In Vietnam, you have motortaxi, bus and taxi. <br />
One trip by motortaxi might cost USD 1. It sound cheap isn't it? But, if you have a partner with you, it might be cheaper to take a taxi (Proven in Saigon). But, I can't deny that motor taxi is faster than other mode of transport when there's a massive jam. As for their public bus transport system, you need to recognize the place/a local to guide you. Everything is in Vietnamese language and they don't announce the stops. So it is near impossible for a foreigners to use the bus service unless you can speak their language or you met someone who can speak English. Some buses will stop as early as 8pm. So, better check your timetable! When you are at the bus station, people will approach you and tell you that the bus service has ended. Double check it yourself as most of them are motortaxi driver and they just want money from you. <br />
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In Cambodia, you have only long distance bus and tuktuk. There's not much choice isn't it? There's nothing much to do with long distance buses as the price are quite standardized. I used the local bus company from Phnom Penh to Siam Reap and it was quite an experience. The ticket cost me USD 5 instead of USD 11 (for Mekong buses) but you can only see local on the bus. The pictures shown look very nice but trust me, I was like 'what the hell? This is not the bus I saw from the picture!'. Yeahh. you get the picture. When you are getting into a tuk-tuk, make sure that you haggle the price first and be firm. For example, a trip from Old market to your hostel/guesthouse should cost only USD 1 per trip. Ignore them when they said 'USD 1 per person'. You can find better one. Just keep looking.<br />
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***Tuk-tuk driver or motor taxi tend to charge foreigners at a higher price compared to the locals. <br />
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In Indonesia, I can't give you much advise on this as I only took angkot and the local train. When someone offered to help you with your luggage at the train station, tell them nicely that you can do it yourself. They are willingly to carry your luggage for you and charge you later. <br />
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If you are travelling around Medan or from Medan to Berastagi/Lake Toba, the mini van fare will cost 10,000-20,000 Rp. We wrote a separate <a href="http://miqtravellers.blogspot.com/2012/08/medan-5d4n-transportation-guide.html">post</a> on Medan-Berastagi-Toba-Medan. Go read naoo! But, it is a non-air-conditioned and people are allowed to smoke in the mini van. Air-conditioned car will cost more but it's smoke free. Always ask for price before paying and remember to ask around! Never ever pass your luggage to anyone unless you agreed that you want to use their transport. <br />
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p/s: The driving in Indonesia is not meant for faint-hearted. You will get what I mean. =)<br />
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2. Always bargain. At least 70% of the price offered. <br />
I will pay for what it's worth for because they are trying to make a living too. <br />
Don't believe when people say 'We are chinese, so I will give you a good price'. The price they offered is always higher than others. Do some research on where the locals do their shopping. Then, you will know where to get the cheapest souvenirs. For example, Pasar Beringharjo in Jogjakarta is a very good place but you need to walk to the other side to search for very cheap and nice souvenirs. When they tell you that it is very cheap, don't believe that. For example, if they offer you USD 1 for a magnet, bargain for 3 for USD 1 and etc. Do ask a few shops before you buy. And always pretend that you are not interested in their goods and walk away. If you show your interest in their goods, they will mark up the price as high as 300% but you will still feel that the price is reasonable. =)<br />
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3. Accommodation <br />
It depends on your travelling style. If you like posh hotels or at least 3-star accommodation, you can always book with the hotel website or try <a href="http://www.agoda.com/">Agoda</a>. But if you are backpacking, always check for guesthouse reviews and compare a few Guesthouse before making decision. Some Guesthouse do have promotion for off-peak season where they only charge price for 2 nights for 3 nights and etc. When I was doing my research for Phnom Penh, it was very difficult as most of the bad GH have very bad reviews. Go for your safety instead of the price. We paid around USD 17 for a room but it was worth it because of the security. A lot of travelers complaint that they were robbed in the middle of the night when they were sleeping. Avoid paying the room rental in advance as the room might not turned out as you want it to be or you can't really predict your schedule if you travelling by land. <br />
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If you like to make new friends, do try couch surfing. I tried it and I loved it very much. It is the best way to experience the culture of the local and know their lifestyle. In my opinion, that's the most important part when comes to travelling. I made new friends and learnt a lot about them. <br />
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I will stop here today and will continue another day.<br />
If you have any enquiries about travelling in SEA, do leave us a comment and we will get back to you asap. Perhaps cover it in our next travel guide! have a good week ahead! <br />
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IuhnixMiqTravellershttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13151774118341548775noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1064364197243147391.post-35237501867038306372011-09-19T20:02:00.000+08:002011-09-19T20:02:33.982+08:00Book your holiday!<div style="text-align: center;">Hi readers! </div><div style="text-align: center;">Sorry for the late in updates. </div><div style="text-align: center;">How are you???</div><div style="text-align: center;">All the writers are busy with their final year project and we are definitely longing for a long holiday. =(</div><div style="text-align: center;">Do you know that AirAsia will have their zero fare promo this wednesday?</div><div style="text-align: center;">The Miqtravellers are discussing where to go for our graduation trip.</div><div style="text-align: center;">We are definitely having a huge problem in selecting the perfect destination. *scratch head*</div><div style="text-align: center;">Are you guys going to book a ticket for a holiday too?</div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">I secretly hope that everyone won't go online so that I can book my perfect holiday. Nahh.Just joking :)</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">Updates coming right away !</div>MiqTravellershttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13151774118341548775noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1064364197243147391.post-43446438683762805242011-08-11T14:59:00.001+08:002011-08-11T15:01:49.236+08:00SydneyPhotos from Sydney. The view is taken from Taronga Zoo and it's pretty scenic. Hope you will like it too.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-8XeDLw7bn24/TkN8abTq9uI/AAAAAAAAAkQ/8u_36uLbGqc/s1600/_DSC0524.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="416" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-8XeDLw7bn24/TkN8abTq9uI/AAAAAAAAAkQ/8u_36uLbGqc/s640/_DSC0524.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br />
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MiqTravellershttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13151774118341548775noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1064364197243147391.post-72326493469661005442011-07-20T10:00:00.003+08:002011-07-20T10:00:00.113+08:00Orange Coloured SkyBack from Japan. Here a little preview of the Japan trip. This is taken on the first day of arrival in Rinku Town, a small town adjacent to Kansai International Airport.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-51hNBBbqv2Q/TiWuoaflm8I/AAAAAAAAAkE/0A5gRnjBicY/s1600/IMG_0741.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-51hNBBbqv2Q/TiWuoaflm8I/AAAAAAAAAkE/0A5gRnjBicY/s640/IMG_0741.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-8DkenlPLFeQ/TiWupq5HLhI/AAAAAAAAAkI/xVFAzMKDStg/s1600/IMG_0746.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-8DkenlPLFeQ/TiWupq5HLhI/AAAAAAAAAkI/xVFAzMKDStg/s640/IMG_0746.JPG" width="480" /></a></div>Will update as soon as I have gotten everything sorted.<br />
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Next destination is Java Island. Stay tune=DMiqTravellershttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13151774118341548775noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1064364197243147391.post-64069546995896334702011-07-18T12:59:00.001+08:002011-07-18T13:06:56.280+08:00The magnificient Angkor Temples!Hola ! <br />
I'm going to bring you to one of the main UNESCO heritage site in South East Asia. <br />
It was discovered by the French.<br />
Can you guess where is it?<br />
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It's Angkor Wat ! Angkor refers to temple in Hinduism and Wat refers to temple too but in Buddhism. Hinduism and Buddhism was adapted by the kings in different era. The king will decide the religion when he rule the country. The temples there were either inspired by Hinduism or Buddhism. For example, if the first king believe in Hinduism and the second king believes in Buddhism, they might just alter the sculpture of the temples or build a completely new temple. Some temples have a mixture of Hindu and Buddhist influence. <br />
We shared a tour guide with 3 other travelers from the guesthouse. We met two of them in Saigon when we were doing our Melkong Delta trip. The charges for tour guide is USD 20 per day. Our tour guide is Mr.Vanna and he's very good. We booked a tuktuk for USD 15. <br />
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My experience in Siam Reap is the highlight of my 9 days trip. It started up with throwing up three times in the morning. <i>fml</i><br />
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We bought the one day ticket at USD 20 each. The pass has our picture on it so the guards can check. <br />
My friend and I went to Angkor Wat at 430am to watch the sunrise! We asked the others to come with us but they would rather watch the sunset. lol. <br />
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It was raining season in June so the sun didn't show up at all. :( <br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-YoYBkYMPOCs/Th6k61k_1kI/AAAAAAAAAjU/C187ev-em3E/s1600/SRD2-AW+%25289%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" m$="true" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-YoYBkYMPOCs/Th6k61k_1kI/AAAAAAAAAjU/C187ev-em3E/s640/SRD2-AW+%25289%2529.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">We took a stroll inside the Angkor Wat temple. The weather was pretty good and we took a few pictures. We were glad that we went to see the sunrise. You will know why later :)</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">This was my favourite shot of the day. I adjusted the setting of the camera and the outcome was great without editing. It was taken at one of the temple inside Angkor Wat. There's a total of five temples. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-8utknqUXNCk/TiOsPGckY3I/AAAAAAAAAjY/BYAOb4SeRr4/s1600/SRD2-AW+%252812%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-8utknqUXNCk/TiOsPGckY3I/AAAAAAAAAjY/BYAOb4SeRr4/s640/SRD2-AW+%252812%2529.JPG" width="480" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">After that, we went back to the guesthouse to have our breakfast and meet the rest. My body doesn't allow me to consume any food for breakfast either. :(</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">We started our tour with Sras Srang. Vanna told us that the king use it for swimming or bathing with his wives. There's suppose to be a temple in the middle but it drowned if I remember it correctly. It's good to hire a tour guide because they will tell you every single details so that you can have very good understanding of the temples. Or get a guidebook for USD 5. You can't just go in there to take pictures because you will get bored very soon everything look the same. =)</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-GpxpF8ER3SE/TiOu-ziQHbI/AAAAAAAAAjc/dzBJ3H8n12g/s1600/SRD2-AW+%252817%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-GpxpF8ER3SE/TiOu-ziQHbI/AAAAAAAAAjc/dzBJ3H8n12g/s640/SRD2-AW+%252817%2529.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">I was feeling really bad for the rest of the day so I didn't take any pictures. The weather was cooling and the sky was pretty dark for photography too. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">My friend told me that its better to capture the moment by our own eyes because pictures couldn't tell how magnificent the place is. Angkor temples are amazing. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">After that, we went to Angkor Thom,Ta Phrom, Ta Keo and Terrace of Elephants. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">The only picture I took in Ta Phrom before I felt worst. =( </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-UxEhlfqo4ec/TiOyLhJJlaI/AAAAAAAAAjw/fTzdrGPKXME/s1600/SRD2-AW+%25287%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-UxEhlfqo4ec/TiOyLhJJlaI/AAAAAAAAAjw/fTzdrGPKXME/s640/SRD2-AW+%25287%2529.JPG" width="424" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"> In case you don't know, Ta Phrom is the temple where they filmed Tomb Raider. And Angelina Jolie took the same picture from where I stood according to my tour guide. Vanna was very encouraging. He took us to all the best spot to take pictures but unfortunately all of us felt hot, thirsty and tired to take pictures. I wish I didn't fall sick on that day. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Vanna told us to look from the hole and tell him what we saw. Don't you think that it looks like a human trying to climb the temple?</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-7IO3BE-ROok/TiO-WKGzxcI/AAAAAAAAAj8/6wI4Rei-6qw/s1600/SRD2-AW+%252827%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-7IO3BE-ROok/TiO-WKGzxcI/AAAAAAAAAj8/6wI4Rei-6qw/s640/SRD2-AW+%252827%2529.JPG" width="480" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Later on, we proceed to Bayon Temple. According to Vanna, the king is a happy king so you can notice the smile on the face of the sculpture. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-bdmcAjFFQ-I/TiO1glgWUwI/AAAAAAAAAj0/glu1WMJ5VXQ/s1600/SRD2-AW+%25282%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-bdmcAjFFQ-I/TiO1glgWUwI/AAAAAAAAAj0/glu1WMJ5VXQ/s640/SRD2-AW+%25282%2529.JPG" width="424" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Vanna, our tour guide explaining the wall sculptures. The artist record the daily activities of the local by carving them on the wall. You can see those sculptures are actually chinese. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-k7yBdb-OchA/TiO-x2IMBtI/AAAAAAAAAkA/5r9vFqwpLRI/s1600/SRD2-AW+%252833%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-k7yBdb-OchA/TiO-x2IMBtI/AAAAAAAAAkA/5r9vFqwpLRI/s640/SRD2-AW+%252833%2529.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">We went for lunch at 12 noon and the rain start pouring. I drank coconut water for lunch instead of eating solid food. The rain continues after lunch. However, we still make our way to the main temple-Angkor Wat. I didn't take any pictures after that because I was busy avoiding myself from getting wet. The rain didn't stop at all. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">I'm very impressed with the stories told by Mr.Vanna. He's very dedicated to his job. Well, he make sure that all of us understand the story and history. He repeated the Ramayana story for 938492834092 times. I heard of it before when I was in <a href="http://miqtravellers.blogspot.com/2011/06/bangkok-day-2.html">Bangkok</a>. So, it wasn't a new story to me. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Here's some guides if you are going to the Angkor Temples. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">1. Never buy stuff from the kids. They will keep bugging you until you buy more stuff from them. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div>2. Never ask for the price unless you are interested in it.<br />
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</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">3. You can bring your own food/snacks if you are on a tight budget. The food sold in those restaurants are very expensive. You can also request your driver to bring you out of the park to have lunch. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">4. If you want to visit the outlying temples and big circuit, you will need a multiple day pass. The one day pass is only enough for the small circuit temples as stated in this post. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">5. Wear comfortable shoes because the steps are very slippery. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div>6. Avoid wearing shorts and sleeveless shirt because they might stop you from entering some temples especially the main one in Angkor Wat. Bring a scarf to cover up.<br />
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-LsglYPWo2pk/TiO4X9oaQWI/AAAAAAAAAj4/qIn_fWbG_8c/s1600/SRD2-AW+%252839%2529.JPG" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-LsglYPWo2pk/TiO4X9oaQWI/AAAAAAAAAj4/qIn_fWbG_8c/s640/SRD2-AW+%252839%2529.JPG" width="640" /></a><br />
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</div>I will stop here today.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">p/s: I'm not posting according to my trip. I shall post up my itinerary soon ! </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">From the editor who suffered a lot after eating amok fish. =)</div>MiqTravellershttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13151774118341548775noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1064364197243147391.post-31040876414020929302011-07-10T20:56:00.000+08:002011-07-10T20:56:11.016+08:00Putrajaya 02<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="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-MqmvIdLisTs/ThmhFYID9UI/AAAAAAAAAjQ/akTgKrCmmuA/s1600/_DSC0312-1.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="424" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-MqmvIdLisTs/ThmhFYID9UI/AAAAAAAAAjQ/akTgKrCmmuA/s640/_DSC0312-1.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Cruise Tasik, Putrajaya </td></tr>
</tbody></table>Taken at Cruise Tasik, Putrajaya with D90.MiqTravellershttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13151774118341548775noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1064364197243147391.post-22227625295993109162011-07-06T23:08:00.003+08:002014-04-10T10:40:18.504+08:00Off to Japan soonHey ya! My Japan trip is in 3 days and I have yet to finish planning yet cause I wanna make the most out of my trip, trying to fit in as many places as possible. I ll be going for eight days, though its seems long but I still feel that I can't covered the places I wanna go. <br />
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So here's a brief itinerary:<br />
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Day 1:<br />
Arrival at Kansai International Airport<br />
I'll be heading to Sakai for the famous tomb stone and also Sumiyoshi to visit the Sumiyoshi Tashi Temple via the Nankai Line, then back to Rinku Town for the night.<br />
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Day 2:<br />
Leaving Rinku Town and heading to Osaka via the Nankai Line to Namba Station. From there, I'll be changing to the Midosuji Line to Shinsaibashi Station. Our hotel for 7 nights will be at Hearton Hotel Shinsaibashi Osaka. It's pretty reasonable for only RM 1400 for that 7 night, and it's close to the Station making sight seeing very easier.<br />
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After Check-in, I'll be using the <a href="http://www.pia-kansai.ne.jp/osp/en/06_b.php">Osaka Unlimited Pass</a> as it provide free admission to most of the popular tourist attraction in Osaka and unlimited ride on public transport for the day.<br />
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Day 3:<br />
Will be spending the whole day in Universal Studio Osaka. Universal Studio is only accessible via the JR line. I'll be taking the JR line from Osaka Station to Universal Studio Station<br />
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Day 4:<br />
Will be visiting Kobe half the day,hopefully there's ample time to visit the Himeji-jo in Himeji. <br />
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Day 5:<br />
Heading over to Kyoto. Most probably will be covering the UNESCO Herritage Sites in Northern Kyoto as well as going up the Kyoto tower and catching a glimpse of geisha in Gion District<br />
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Day 6:<br />
Will be taking a relaxing day in Osaka visiting the Osaka Castle which was closed on Monday in the morning and then heading to Namba district and Dotombori to dine and shop.<br />
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Day 7:<br />
Back for another day in Kyoto, covering the eastern side of Kyoto or heading to Nara. Pretty unsure yet. We will see how it goes.<br />
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Day 8:<br />
The Gion Matsuri Festival will be held in Kyoto on this day (17July) and I guess this will be the highlight of the trip. Hopefully slight sight seeing in between.<br />
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Day 9:<br />
Catching the early train back to KIX to fly back to Malaysia.<br />
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Ciao! Off to finish my planning. Hope all goes well!MiqTravellershttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13151774118341548775noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1064364197243147391.post-27346490667609320092011-07-06T20:40:00.001+08:002011-07-20T00:28:36.492+08:00Putrajaya 01<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-BAh3lw90LPs/ThRW2b9W5sI/AAAAAAAAAjM/mP8zGHvr4FA/s1600/_DSC0238.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="424" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-BAh3lw90LPs/ThRW2b9W5sI/AAAAAAAAAjM/mP8zGHvr4FA/s640/_DSC0238.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br />
Hi readers, <br />
This is a sneak preview from our photography trip at Putrajaya lately. The picture above was taken in Taman Botani. <br />
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Stay tune for more postcard like picture. <br />
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Love, <br />
Iuhnix (Miqtravellers)MiqTravellershttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13151774118341548775noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1064364197243147391.post-1585180939247955002011-07-04T14:25:00.009+08:002011-07-20T00:28:48.821+08:00Thailand Travel Guide 02Hi! Sorry for being MIA for so long. We were too busy with trip plannings and stuff. Two of us are heading to HK and Japan this week! Ain't that awesome?<br />
I think choosing the right accommodation is a real pain when it comes to trip planning. As for me, we opt for cheap and good hostel because we only need a place to sleep at night.<br />
I stayed in <a href="http://www.lamphuhouse.com/default.htm">Lamphu House</a> when I was in Bangkok. Well, it wasn't a hostel. The place look more like a hotel to me. We stayed there for 3 nights and we tried 3 different rooms. Long story.<br />
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I wanted to book the Quad room at the first place but it wasn't in the list when I fill in the reservation form. Perhaps you can email them instead to book the room as it's very ideal when you are travel in four.<br />
In the end, I book the fan room(400B) with shared bathroom for the trip because we thought that it will be like the one in our uni hostels.<br />
The room was nice but it was so stuffy at night because May was the hottest month of the year. FOL. I couldn't sleep at all on the first night. They have a small fan attached to the ceiling and obviously it didn't work well. When I said shared bathroom, it means shared between man and female. Too bad I didn't take any pictures from the bathroom. You might see strangers who only have their towel on them when you are brushing your teeth. Remember to stay calm. LoL<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-74b8J1IE-DY/ThFgIvatyRI/AAAAAAAAAiE/ALgg5QiolWk/s1600/IMG_2051.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-74b8J1IE-DY/ThFgIvatyRI/AAAAAAAAAiE/ALgg5QiolWk/s400/IMG_2051.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>On the next day, we went to the reception counter and ask for A/C room instead. They gave us the quad room with private bathroom at 980B. The room was great because it was huge and we have a balcony to hang our clothes. The other bed is opposite the one you saw in the picture below.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-f86dwH-Dvdc/ThFhNMSA5XI/AAAAAAAAAiI/7gYHXRUjVdc/s1600/IMG_1085.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-f86dwH-Dvdc/ThFhNMSA5XI/AAAAAAAAAiI/7gYHXRUjVdc/s400/IMG_1085.JPG" width="300" /></a></div>On the third morning, we have to move to a new room because someone book the quad room before us. We moved to the standard room(With A/C at 630B) with private bathroom instead. There's a double bed with tables and place to hang your clothes inside. <br />
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As for the fourth night, we stayed in Silver Gold Garden Suvarnabhumi Airport Hotel. We paid around RM50 for a room via Agoda.com which includes free airport transfer. <br />
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It's a good place to stay because they have night market in front of the hotel and Tesco is located right next to the hotel! It is definitely a good place for last minute shopping. XD<br />
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My friend told me that there's a lot of cheap hostel around KS road area but we need to explore as they don't have a website.<br />
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Perhaps you can keep that in mind when you go Bangkok ! :)<br />
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That's all for the accomodation part.MiqTravellershttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13151774118341548775noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1064364197243147391.post-58417005268921604382011-06-19T20:33:00.000+08:002011-06-19T20:33:21.044+08:00Hello Cambodia!Hey readers!<br />
Guess where am I now?<br />
I'm currently at my third pit stop after Saigon and Phnom Penh! We saw Cambodia through the bus ride. On our first day in Cambodia, we saw poor citizen who was trying to sell us goods but we didn't get down the bus. Then, we saw the local village which is quite similar to Malaysia's rumah panjang/rumah papan. After that, we saw the much developed Phnom Penh and now, we are at Siam Reap with less developed road. I will write as soon as I get back to Malaysia.<br />
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Stay Tune for our travel guides! You gotta love it !MiqTravellershttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13151774118341548775noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1064364197243147391.post-36114364883433043022011-06-05T11:00:00.001+08:002011-06-05T11:00:00.480+08:00Bangkok Day 2Saawaadeekaa~ We are back with our itinerary for Day Two =)<br />
<span style="font-size: x-small;">Have you read about </span><a href="http://miqtravellers.blogspot.com/2011/05/bangkok-from-girls-perspective.html"><span style="font-size: x-small;">our itinerary</span></a><span style="font-size: x-small;">,our post on </span><a href="http://miqtravellers.blogspot.com/2011/05/bangkok-day-1.html"><span style="font-size: x-small;">day one</span></a><span style="font-size: x-small;"> and <a href="http://miqtravellers.blogspot.com/2011/06/thailand-travel-guide-01.html">our travel guide</a> ?</span><br />
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We started day two by having breakfast at one of the street near Khao San Road. Then, we walked to the pier(N11) where we took the transport to the Grand Palace. (N9) Fee:14 Bath nett.<br />
We can actually walk to GP from KS road(20 minutes) but we can't get the directions from the local as they don't understand us. I heard that Old Bangkok is along the way if you walk.<br />
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The pier near KS road is Phra Arthit. There's a map which show which boat you can take to reach N9. <br />
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</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">The people are ready to get off. </div><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-wSQkUBRQIpg/TebpX4EjxjI/AAAAAAAAAhY/uWgsniPXxU8/s1600/IMG_0923.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-wSQkUBRQIpg/TebpX4EjxjI/AAAAAAAAAhY/uWgsniPXxU8/s640/IMG_0923.JPG" width="640" /></a><br />
From here. <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-YVwH5bV59LM/TebpZFHrCKI/AAAAAAAAAhc/a4Y_-SH4mIY/s1600/IMG_0922.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-YVwH5bV59LM/TebpZFHrCKI/AAAAAAAAAhc/a4Y_-SH4mIY/s640/IMG_0922.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>There's a tourist information booth after you walk out of N9. According to them, its better to visit GP first then turn left and the exit and walk to Wat Pho instead of turning right to Wat Pho.<br />
The entrance fee to GP is 350 Bath(They will stop selling ticket at 3pm but the palace open till 5pm/530pm) The ticket consist of entrance to Grand Palace, Dusit Palace(far from GP) and the museum inside GP but you have to use it within 7 days. The dresscode is very strict. Well, they provide proper attire for you but you have to pay the deposit. You can get back the money after you return the attire.<br />
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Tips: Get the free guide from GP at 10am, 1030am, 130pm and 2pm. The guide will explain all the basic things that you need to know about the place. Or you can just stand next to some tour guide and pretend that you don't understand their language. lol<br />
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We went in quite early to avoid the tourist tour but they came in quite early as well. We just have to be quick and taking pictures. <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Z7eSNEYUOOU/Tebr6W_TwBI/AAAAAAAAAhg/UZS3ZiSANsE/s1600/IMG_0934.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Z7eSNEYUOOU/Tebr6W_TwBI/AAAAAAAAAhg/UZS3ZiSANsE/s640/IMG_0934.JPG" width="640" /></a></div> The protector of the Palace. <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-SGacpvHH8i4/Tebr719nmqI/AAAAAAAAAhk/fD0AqrpNkUk/s1600/IMG_0940.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-SGacpvHH8i4/Tebr719nmqI/AAAAAAAAAhk/fD0AqrpNkUk/s640/IMG_0940.JPG" width="480" /></a></div> At one of the temple. <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-2xHWsfD6hBk/Tebr9T2FbQI/AAAAAAAAAho/8xQLGol1hFk/s1600/IMG_0991.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-2xHWsfD6hBk/Tebr9T2FbQI/AAAAAAAAAho/8xQLGol1hFk/s640/IMG_0991.JPG" width="480" /></a></div> The postcard-like picture. I adore wide angle lens so much. <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-0jrqZ1vJ_1Y/Tebr_HlC-gI/AAAAAAAAAhs/tVCrFkSuXNw/s1600/IMG_1027.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-0jrqZ1vJ_1Y/Tebr_HlC-gI/AAAAAAAAAhs/tVCrFkSuXNw/s640/IMG_1027.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>There's a lot of picture from GP which I can't show all of them in this post. Basically, GP consist of the royal temples and the palace. We were not allow to go into the palace. We end our free tour at around 12pm. In GP, you can send your postcard at the fee of 15 bath per piece. I save the hassle of looking for a post office.<br />
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The weather was very hot on that day and we choose not to proceed to Wat Pho and Wat Arun(N8). Wat Pho is where the reclining buddha is and the entrance fee is 20 bath. We had seen the reclining buddha at Malaysia. So, we choose to skip it. You have to take the boat to Wat Arun. If you are at Wat Arun, you must climb the temple but you need to pay a fee for that. The steps were steep. However, we choose to skip it as we couldn't stand the weather at all. I will go back when I visit Bangkok next time. <br />
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From Grand Palace, we took a taxi to Chinatown(Yaowurat) which cost us 80 bath. You can choose to take bus No.53 or the boat and get off at N5.<br />
We had our lunch at Chinatown. My friend, J told us that we can eat bird nest soup and shark fin soup at a very cheap price but we didn't see anyone selling any of those. There's a lot of wholesale shop around that area though.<br />
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We left Chinatown after our lunch and took another taxi to Pratunam. It was peak hour and the taxi drivers were reluctant to fetch us there. Luckily we met a policeman who flagged down the taxi for us and even ask the taxi driver to use the meter. =) The fare was 79 Bath.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-vIjKBnedLfI/TebxXZ33mlI/AAAAAAAAAh8/VfmwfgWzONg/s1600/IMG_2181.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-vIjKBnedLfI/TebxXZ33mlI/AAAAAAAAAh8/VfmwfgWzONg/s640/IMG_2181.JPG" width="640" /></a></div> Pratunam market is the wholesale area. But if you get 3 piece and above, you are entitled for their wholesale price. Platinum mall which is opposite the market provide a lot of options too. I heard that the food at Platinum mall's food court(6th floor) is very good. Both the market and the mall close at 6pm. So, don't try to be smart and visit them at night.<br />
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You can walk to Pratunam market/Platinum mall if you are at the Siam BTS Station/Siam Paragon/MBK/Siam Discovery Center. It is within walking distance and I saw a lot of food vendors along the way.<br />
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Okay. That's all for Day Two.Pop us email if you have further inquiries about the place ya?MiqTravellershttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13151774118341548775noreply@blogger.com0