Through the London eye

Day 1 – SINGAPORE – LONDON

I must say that this is really a long day. And we finally arrived in London! We pre-booked our stay at the Berjaya Eden Park Hotel. This hotel definitely has a feel of Asian culture with so many Asians treading in and out alongside their oriental decorations.

We set up our luggage in the hotel and off we go for the start of our adventure.

On top of our list was definitely breakfast and so we decided to head over to one near our hotel to freshen up before we start the rest of the activities. So this place, Granger & Co was an apparent hit even to the locals as we arrived at barely 9am and there was already a queue. Talk about being early.

Like typical Singaporeans, a queue is a good sign of a wise choice. Nevertheless, we didn’t have to wait long before we get our seats and our tummy filled. 

ricotta hotcakes, banana and honeycomb butter

We then headed to the Hitchin Lavender fields. You can imagine our determination since it took us more than an hour to reach there. The routes on google were quite accurate apart from the fact that buses don’t operate on Sundays. So do take note. We took a cab in the end that costs us about GBP 8 for a short 10 minutes ride. 

Once we arrived, it was all worth it. The vast field of lavender, as far as our eyes goes.

We had a cup of tea while we contemplate if we should hitch a ride out or request the nice staff of the coffee house to help us get a cab out. We chose the latter. Don’t want to risk our lives for petty cash I guess.

We headed back to London city center and decided to head over to the Wembley stadium to get our cravings satisfied at the designer outlet mall.

And so we settled for a lunchner at handmade burger Co. I was already a fan of fries and this here, is just off the charts.

HIPSTER CHIPS – that’s what they called.

“Our famous handmade chips topped with jalapeño slaw, finished with Sriracha mayo & fresh spring onions”

And this, is the best fries I ever had. The fries (Brits called them chips), fat and flavourful, fried to the absolute right crisp and top with my favourite jalapeño slaw and Sriracha mayo. I could remember the taste while typing this. Yums.

See their menu here: http://handmadeburger.co.uk/menu/#ffs-tabbed-8010

We took a long stroll and head back to our hotel for the night.

Day 2 – LONDON

We woke up leisurely and decided to head over to some sights of interest around London to mark our stay.

And so like all tourists, we went to the Big Ben and participated in the ceremony of the horse guard parade. I can only say even the thousand words pictures illustrated was not enough to describe the magnificence of the architecture and the parade.

We went back to Wembley stadium since we had some time to spare and we obviously had to make our stop at the handmade burger Co for obvious reasons. We tried a different menu – the Denver Chips with the pulled pork. Whilst it was still great, I would still strongly recommend the Hipster chips we had the day before.

We went ahead to have our favourite past time doing shopping and stopped for our early dinner at the Burger & Lobsters. Lobsters’ lovers really need to try this one out whilst in London, or you might as well say you haven’t been there. 

The lobsters are fresh and the sides that goes with it complements the mains totally.

Who could miss a chance for musical at the mother of all theatres in London West End? We pre-booked our choice for Les Miserables Musical a few days before since we have missed it in our home country recently. What a better chance to catch it here while we‘re here.  Really, catch it if you are in town. It’s really worth it.

After indulging our ears and eyes, we thought we ought to feed our stomach. But we had a failed mission at Flat Iron. They were almost close (last orders out) when we arrived.

Day 3 - LONDON - IRELAND 

Guess what, WE MISSED OUR FLIGHT! But oh well, haven’t we been through some crazy things throughout the past decade.

So the story goes, no wifi, online check-in and woke up late. I guess you could have imagined how the story goes. We missed our flight and went ahead to put our luggage at the airport concierge.

*Tip: Concierge - GBP 8 for 1 day

So we went back to London and caught up with what we have missed. Talking about bad luck and crazy weather. So we’ve heard how the weather in London is quite unpredictable, we diligently brought our umbrella everywhere we go, everyday, except today. We’ve thought that we will be heading straight to the airport for our flight to Ireland. Little did we thought that we might have missed the flight, so we jolly well left our brolly in our check-in luggage. And it has to be today to meet the legendary downpour. 

So to uplift the mouldy spirits from the missing flight, we decided to travel back to the city center to catch up on the things we missed instead of getting a flight to another Irish city, considering our plans.

We head back to the Buckingham Palace to catch the changing of the royal guards. And just as it was ending, the downpour came. We ran and it rained heavier. We finally found shelter but we were already soaked and drench. I was dripping wet, literally. As our luck goes, we decided to hop across to the Flat Iron for our long awaited GBP 10 steak that we keep hearing. Truth to be told, I was quite skeptical prior to that but once the dish was served, damn, I was impress with the quality of a GBP 10 steak.

We loitered awhile longer in the city before going back to the airport, before another storm hits us. We dutifully arrived in the airport real early to prevent any hiccups and took our much intended flight out from London.

And we arrived in Ireland.

Fun in NZ: Tekapo

We arrived in the afternoon and the first view of the renowned Lake Tekapo took our breaths away as the turquoise color promised to us peeked out so slightly to greet us as we climbed over the hill to enter the town. Magnificent. Just magnificent. I remembered I totally went OMG, OMG, OMG when I saw the view that greeted me. 

Our first encounter with the Lake

We headed straight to our hostel to check in before we make our rounds around town. We were greeted with friendly faces and helpful suggestions as to where to go to get the best out of the stay in this town. Naturally, the Astro Café is a big hit, almost everywhere that talks about Tekapo will point you in that direction. And so, we headed there. But the wind was so strong that the only road leading to the Café was close. We had to turn back and continue our exploration elsewhere. Delightfully, we found a hidden gem just along the road to the Astro Café and the views were just astonishing.

Small private road further down the road from Astro Cafe

After which we went around for a while before heading back to the hostel to get some rest before our night tour.

Church of Good Shepherd

The night was cold and we had our dinner before heading out. After the experience this afternoon with the road closure due to strong winds, we actually didn’t keep our hopes high. We reached the Earth and Sky office just down the road and the reception told us to wait a bit before they confirm the weather and register us, so we stuck around.

Finally, good news was broadcasted and we queue up to register ourselves and got a jacket each. Mind you, we were already wearing ultra-thick jackets. But they said that the wind is still crazy up the mountain, so it’s best we don their “arctic jackets”.

The drive was an adventure by itself. As to minimize the light pollution to the observatory, they would switch off their headlights while navigating through the winding mountain roads. I really have to salute the experienced driver for his balls and skills. Driving mountain range at night is one thing, but driving mountain range with headlights off is just insane. But he was quite right to say that once our eyes get used to the darkness, the moonlight is actually pretty bright.

And so we finally arrived at the observatory after the thrilling ride to face our old enemy – Cold. The wind is really gushing strong and the path was dark, really dark. They did give us a small red light torch just in case we need some lighting up of the paths. Red lights are less polluting than white or yellow lights.

There we learn about the stars we could see in the south. And the most amazing thing happened. We saw the southern lights. THE AURORA AUSTRALIS. Yes. The legendary aurora australis. The dancing lights lit up the sky and it was the most beautiful thing we saw.

Aurora Australis

Tips: don’t have to bring a tripod to the tour as the staffs are more than glad to help you take some amazing long exposure shots of the night sky.

We finally went back down cold and tired but feeling amazing af.

The next morning we headed over to the mountain range that leads to the Astro Café again and it’s open! We went ahead to have our breakfast and morning coffee up in the hills enjoying the cold breeze and amazing views before heading down to the Church of Good Shepherd again. It’s just too beautiful.

This is the first thing that greets you as you arrive at the peak

Walk along this road to find treasure

Astro Cafe

View that Astro Cafe overlooks

After that we went to a recommended Japanese restaurant to fill our tummy before we move on. And there we ended our happenings in Tekapo and continued our adventure.

28 Under Rated Destinations in Southeast Asia that will Change your life

Short getaways from Singapore might seem so mundane and boring considering places like Bali, Bangkok and Hanoi. As we take a step back look again at Southeast Asia, we might be able to find, what we like to call "a moment."

It's not an area of the world that tops everyone's bucket list, but Southeast Asia does have its fair share of packed-with-tourists sites, and of course, some hidden treasure.

1.       Cambodia, Kep

(Image Credit: Viet Vision Travel)

Reminaise in the memories of the colonial French (hip getaway for wealthy Frenchies) while indulging in Kep's tranquil beaches, where cute seafood spots on stilts serve some of the yummiest crab in the world. Alternatively, spend a day on in the Kep National Park or visit the once world renowned Kamot Pepper plantation at Phnom Voir mountain.

2.       Cambodia, Siem Reap, Angkor Thom

This largest religious monument in the world is surrounded by a wide open moat. Experience walking through the grand entrances of the different temples and pagodas including the infamous Ta Prohm with trees intertwining through the temples and Bayon with gigantic stone carved faces. Indulge in this never before lifetime experience and sink into the world of wonders.  (Read: Siem Reap:Adventure Land)

3.       Indonesia, Central Java, Borobudur

(Image Credit: Manohara Hotel Borobudur)

Only an hour away from Yogyakarta, Borobudur is not only another UNESCO heritage site, it is also the biggest Buddhist monument on Earth. Overlooking lush green fields and distant hills, be awed by the magnificence of human architecture.

4.       Indonesia, Mount Bromo Ijen

(Image Credit: Banjo Tours)

 Challenge this active volcano beginners’ peak for all to climb. Ascent this stunning mountain and there you will be rewarded with the experience of a lifetime.

5.       Indonesia, Solo (Surakarta)

(Image Credit: Soulnesia)

 Arguably the least westernized cities on the island, Solo has preserved much of the Javanese culture. Enjoy a laid back afternoon and visit the world best Batik museum at Danar Hadi and enjoy a city tour in a Jaladara steam train built in 1800s.

6.       Laos, Luang Prabang

(Image Credit: Eco Adventure)

Home to another UNESCO world heritage site for the fusion between Lao traditional architecture and European colonial style building, Luang Prabang has well preserved these landmarks from the 19^th and 20^th century. Indulge in the fusion of these architectures and have a four day mahout course where you can learn to expertly (and humanely) ride elephants as their keepers do. 

     7.       Malaysia, Cameron Highlands

(Image Credit: FullofTravel)

Tea plantations and strawberry farms – visit one of the Southeast Asia most popular hill stations and escape from the city heat. Indulge in the lush mountains and tour one of several authentic tea factories, or pick some strawberries before cozying up to a mug overlooking the rolling green hills.

8.       Malaysia, Port Dickson

(Image Credit: Flickr)

 Short drive from the renowned Malacca city, Port Dickson is a place for a short getaway from the bustling city life. Pamper yourself and enjoy the water villas, waking up to sea breeze, gazing at the sun rise and sunset over the horizon.

9.       Malaysia, Sabah

(Image Credit: Flight Center)

 Also home to over-water villas and the infamous Mount Kinabalu, Sabah is the last frontier of nature. Independent governance from the Malaysia Peninsula, Sabah embraces the splendor of nature in her economic development.

10.    Myanmar, Ngwe Saung

(Image Credit: Asean Vacation)

With unspoiled , uncrowded and some of the best beaches in Myanmar, weary travelers looking to literally escape it all should head down to Ngwe Saung Beach and immerse in the moment with an astonishing THIRTEEN MILES of beach that just recently opened to the public.

11.    Myanmar, Bagan

(Image Credit: Frequencies of Life)

 Imagine Angkor Wat before it bloomed with tourists, temples seem to be over the horizon in Bagan, which possess the highest concentration of Buddhist ruins the world. Take an e-bike (http://bit.ly/1aTq3vK) and ride through these magnificent pagodas, or think Cappadocia, enjoy a hot air balloon ride over the temples during the quiet dawn or sunset hours that will take your breath away. (PS. I'm travelling there in a few months time. Read: The Road Less Traveled: 7 Days in Myanmar - Part 1)

12.    Myanmar, Mergui Archipelago

(Image Credit: Mergui Archipelago)

 South of Myanmar, it comprises of more than 800 beautiful islands filled with amazing diversity of fauna and flora including very amazing underwater scenes and marine life. Kick-start your adventure here as you snorkel, dive or kayak around the uncharted blue waters and explore the island and chance upon a meeting with the local sea gypsies who, during the dry season of the year, live on boats while they dive for pearls. 

13.    Myanmar, Shan State, Inle Lake

(Image Credit: Travel Myanmar)

 Alike many lakes, this shallow lake is over 13 miles long and home to many local tribes who set up waterside "workshops" for intriguing traditional crafts. Despite the flocks of tourists, most agree Inle is unmissable because of its peaceful floating gardens and entire towns hoisted onto stilts including many magnificent structures like Buddhists temples. Of it all, don’t miss the unique Intha technique of leg rowing – the use of leg to wrap around the paddles used for rowing.

14.    Philippines, El Nido

Sandy white beaches, crystal clear blue water and the ever enduring sun. El Nido is far from tourist buzz and contain the ever simplicity of pure white beaches, dine in casual candlelight and swim in crystal clear lagoons with hidden entrance. Go before all the tourists flock to this next top destination. (Read: El Nido: Hidden Paradise)

15.    Philippines, Legaspi

Ever see a Volcano erupt with the deadly magnificence? Home to the live volcano, which undeniably destroyed a huge part of the city leaving behind the eerie beauty of the Cagsawa ruins, thousands of visitors would flock here to admire this lethal splendour. (Read: Time Travel: The story of Mt Mayon, Cagsawa Ruins and Daraga Church) Or else, take a quick dive into the ocean and find yourself surrounded by the magnificent whale sharks. (Read: Legaspi: The Town of Sleeping Beauty)

16.    Philippines, Palawan

Home to another one of UNESCO heritage sites, be marveled by the wonders of the underground subterranean river of Palawan and get soaked in the tranquility of this mesmerizing wonder of nature. (Read: Puerto Princesa: Home to the Natural Wonders of the World)

17.    Philippines, Coron

(Image Credit: Two Seasons Resort)

 Shipwreck dive haven. Yes, voted as one of the top ten dive sites in the world featuring magnificent ship wreck dive sites, not to mention, home to one of the most beautiful sea animal on the face of the planet – Dugong. Indulge in the  eerie mesmerising beauty of the shipwreck and discover, if you can, the devastating story behind the ghost of the past.

18.    Philippines, Vigan

(Image Credit: Jossie's View)

 Recognised as another UNESCO World heritage site, you cannot find another heritage site preserving their old colonial Spanish town as pure as Vigan does. Pamper your senses in this timeworn settlement that gives you a glimpse into the past.

19.    Thailand, Ayutthaya

(Image Credit: Telegraph)

 Serving as the Thai capital for an astonishing 417 years, the Ayutthaya Historical park listed as another of UNESCO world heritage sites houses many magnificent ruins, of which boasts the glamorous history as one of the most prosperous cities back in the glory times.

20.    Thailand, Pai

(Image Credit: India Travel Blog)

 Unlike most touristy places, Pai (read as “bye”) enjoys a large crowd of local Thais who visits during the cool seasons in December and January. Ride your motorbike a few hours into this mountain town for a chillaxing weekend of zenning out at Rasta bars, napping in woven hammocks, and exploring the waterfalls and hot springs if you can manage to leave your field hut in the nearly picture perfect setting in a mountain valley.

21.     Thailand, Chiang Dao

(Image Credit: Garvin Farrell)

 The rural nature of this lush, forested region is a Disneyland for nature junkies complete with waterfalls, hot springs, and incredible limestone cliffs. The highlights are the Chiang Dao Caves, consisting of roughly 100 caverns which extend out more than 40,000 feet into the mountains. You can explore the caves alone or engage a guide to navigate through narrow rocky hallways, hanging stalactites and hidden Buddha statues.

22.    Thailand, Chiang Rai, The White Temple

(Image Credit: Canuck Abroad)

It look so divine you may imagine it to be no man’s creation but the White Temple (technically named Wat Rong Khun) was actually designed by a Thai artist in the 1990s, and it's has only be recently completed. A tangle of gnarled statues and outstretched hands -- symbolizing the cycle of rebirth -- lead you into the temple, where you'll find many intricate (although haunting) murals and even many defining images of the pop culture including pop icon Michael Jackson and the unfortunate events of 9/11.

23.    Thailand, Ko Lanta

(Image Credit: Kilroy)

Ko Lanta, in spite of being the largest island amongst the hundreds of islands off Thailand's coast, backpackers normally head for the "big names" like Ko Tao (known for its scuba diving) or Ko Phangan (home of the famous full moon parties). These islands are awesome, but for a true Thai experience, try the blissfully empty and flat Ko Lanta, where the National Marine Park protects unpolluted oceans.

24.       Vietnam, Da Nang

(Image Credit: Furama Resort)

30km of pure white beaches and crystal clear water, it is a peninsula with a dazzling lagoon on one side and a beach on the other. It is easily accessible by daily flights and train. Forget crowded Bali and Phuket for now and think Da Nang.

25.       Vietnam, Hue

(Image Credit: All-Free-Photos)

Akin to a Disneyland for history buffs, be prepared to be astonished by the beauty and exquisite tombs and citadels that dwell in the distant memory of the vanished Vietnamese feudal empire. You can also indulge in the various mineral hot springs or scale the Bach Ma Mountain to experience 4 seasons in one place.

       26.       Vietnam, Mui Ne

(Image Credit: Vietnam Visa)

Frequent oceanic winds had sculpture the resident sand in Mui Ne into the beautiful Saharaesque formations. not far from Saigon, these sand dunes seem like they belong on another continent entirely. You can sled, bike, or just freely frolic down both the white and red mountains of bliss and the Fairy Stream, a magical river with a soft, sandy bottom that flows between dry rocks.

27.       Vietnam, Phu Quoc Island

(Image Credit: Talk Vietnam)

Phu Quoc is about to become Vietnam's next hot destination, but thankfully the perfect beaches are still mostly empty. You can rent a motorbike and zoom around the red dirt roads of this island paradise. Then enjoy a fresh cocktail by the beach or take a snorkeling or scuba dip. Hurry up, before other people discover the secret.

28.       Vietnam, Sapa

(Image Credit: Travel to Sapa)

Cascading rice terraces, tiers on tiers of bright-green rice fields are dotted with the colorful clothes of hill-tribe dwellers and roofs of French colonial villas, there’s no other place like Sapa. Also known as the Tonkinese Alps, sometimes the view gets clouded by a warm, jungle mist, but it will only make your day of hiking even more gorgeous.