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Take A Break

2009-08-16T23:18:00.004+08:00

It's been a while since I last wrote anything here.

Well..I've been busy lately and so many things need to be done.

Then one day, a few weeks back, I decided to take a break and I ended up having a cup of latte at Starbucks while reading magazines.

Guess what? It really makes me feel sooo relax at that time. If only I knew it would be so relaxing, I will definitely do it sooner :-)

So you guys out there, if you are feeling down or stress up or need a booster back in life....just take a break...go for a short holiday or if you don't know where to go..perhaps having a sip of latte at Starbucks or Coffee Bean will help :-)

Happy Birthday Kuala Lumpur

2009-02-01T20:30:00.003+08:00

Kuala Lumpur celebrates its 35th anniversary as a Federal Territory today (1st February). As a Malaysian, I'm proud of the achievement made by Kuala Lumpur.

Kuala Lumpur or KL in short, was a mining settlement before. Now Kuala Lumpur offers the colours and excitements of urban life.

Petronas Twin Towers, Kuala Lumpur Tower, Jamek Masjid are among of the major landmarks that can be found here.

If you love shopping (well who doesn't? :-D), then take note that KL is a shopping haven. If you love to bargain, don't miss the bargain heaven, Chinatown (Petaling Street).

There are so many nice places to visit in KL, You must see it and experience it then you'll know what I mean. So if you are planning for a holiday, don't forget to include Kuala Lumpur or Malaysia on your holiday list :-)

Once again, Happy Birthday Kuala Lumpur!!

Beach of Moonlight

2009-01-10T22:42:00.007+08:00

You must be wondering where is this Beach of Moonlight right?

This beach which was previously known as Beach of Passionate Love is located in Kelantan, Malaysia. The locals call it as Pantai Cahaya Bulan (Beach of Moonlight).

This beach is probably one of the most common pictures taken for postcards (about Malaysia).

Something bizzare happened when I was at the beach last December'08.
The blue sea suddenly turned to be murky in colour!! I was so scared because all my life, I've never seen something like this."Tsunami!", that was the first thing that came across my mind at that time (crazy huh? :-D)

Then I realised, that some things are beyond our control...it's the power of the universe!! The power of the Al-Mighty God...and we as human should be grateful that God has given us (me to be exact!) a chance to see something that is so amazing like that (murky sea).

Well, if you are planning to visit Kelantan anytime this year, don't for get to go to Pantai Cahaya Bulan (Beach of Moonlight). Hopefully you'll get the opportunity to see the murky sea like me :-). There's a hotel there too known as Perdana Resort .

By The River of Kelantan

2009-01-05T19:10:00.008+08:00

Remember a song "By The River of Babylon" by Boney M (Yes! it's an oldies.Oh Darn!Now you know how old am I :-D).

I love sunset.It's difficult to explain how it feels when you look at it.One thing for sure,it always make me feel calm & relax (sounds romantic huh?).

This photo was taken last December in Kota Bharu,Kelantan. If you guys are wondering where is Kelantan..it's in the east coast of Malaysia. It's also known as the Cradle of Malay Culture.

There's lots of things that you can see in Kelantan such as Kite Making, Wayang Kulit(shadow puppets), Batik painting, Silat (Malay martial arts), Gasing (top spinning) and many more.

You have to see it to experience it. If you're planning for a holiday this year, why not make a plan to visit Malaysia (visit Kelantan to be precised)..but make sure to plan it properly like booking flight tickets, hotels and try to get a local tourist guide, so that you know where to go.

Packing For A Trip

2008-08-05T11:53:00.002+08:00

Whether you're headed to Tulsa or Trinidad, you can never underestimate the importance of proper packing. How you pack can set the tone for your trip. If you've ever arrived at your destination only to find your suitcase splattered with the remains of a shaving cream explosion, you know this to be true. Here's how to pack like an expert:

Steps

Make a checklist of every item you plan to take on your trip: clothing, shoes, toiletries, maps, guidebooks, reading material, and hotel and rental car information. Include even items you do not intend to pack. Murphy's Law dictates that if you forget something, it will likely be an important item such as your plane ticket or housekeys. A good site to check out is http://www.onebag.com/ It provides a packing checklist and tips.
Review your checklist to determine whether there are any items you can remove to lighten your load. Will you really need three pairs of shoes? And two coats? Consider the weather and what kinds of activities you will be doing.
Buy travel-size containers for your toiletries, regardless of the length of your trip. Unless you will be in a remote location for weeks, you can always drop into a local shop to restock your supply of soap and toothpaste.
Begin packing your luggage, checking off each item on your list as you go.
Pack clothing using the time-honored "roll" technique. Lay two or three items on top of one another, smooth to flatten, and roll them up like you would a sleeping bag to save space and prevent wrinkles. For added wrinkle insurance, place a sheet of heavy tissue or packing paper between items of clothing before rolling.
Pack sweaters and underwear in reusable compression bags, which can create up to 75% more space in your luggage. (They lock in odors, so they also work for storing dirty laundry, but make sure they are dry.)
Enclose toiletry containers in airtight plastic bags to prevent contents from spilling into your suitcase in the event of a leak. Wrap socks or pajamas around breakable items to cushion them.

Tips

Stretch your travel wardrobe by color-matching. If you simply make sure every piece of clothing you pack works with every other piece, you can create a host of mix-and-match possibilities and no one will be the wiser.
Going abroad? Make a photocopy of your passport and store it separately from the original. If you lose your real passport, having a copy will speed the replacement process.
Avoid overpacking. Do you really need 4 t-shirts for an overnight?
If you're going to be bored, be sure to include things like books or games to keep you occupied and happy.
Be sure to pack medications and other important items in your hand carry, not your check-in baggage. If your luggage gets misrouted, you will still have them.

(article provided by wikiHow)

10 Great Places For a Honeymoon

2008-08-05T11:32:00.001+08:00

Every bride wants her wedding day to be the most special day of her life. It can be a little hectic with all the planning, though. The honeymoon is the perfect time to relax and enjoy each other, and your choice of location should give you the opportunity to do so. Here's ten places that serve lovers best.

1. No mention of romantic getaways could be complete without Paris, France. Known as the most romantic city in the world with its fairy lights and European lifestyle, Paris calls to lovers from around the world. Of course, once you're there, Paris connects easily with some beautiful locations in South France where you can rent a chalet, take vineyard tours, and bask in the warmth of the locals.

2. Venice with its long, winding canals and singing gondoliers has imprinted itself on the hearts of romantics everywhere. The experience is one that will last a lifetime.

3. The Caribbean brings lovers out in droves to its aquamarine waters and swaying palm trees. But if you're trying to avoid the crowds and snuggle up on the white sands of a quiet beach, go to one of the less well-known islands. Some couples find it convenient to stay in the honeymoon suite of the big resorts and head out to the quieter islands during the day.

4. One of the most beautiful islands in French Polynesia, Bora Bora is an idyllic getaway for the romantic soul. Based around an extinct volcano covered in greenery, honeymooners will enjoy their stay in private bungalows on stilts that have been set up in the lagoon. Visitors are cautioned that they may never want to go home.

5. Take your sweetheart on a trip they'll never forget with a slow-moving houseboat winding its way through the backwaters of Kerala. Known as the Venice of the east, Kerala has a wild untouched quality in the verdant greenery that sweeps across the land and reaches out to lovers as they wind down the rivers.

6. For something with a touch of history to it, head to Taormina, Sicily in Italy. The small town is based on the side of Monte Tauro near the Mt. Etna volcano. The clear waters of the sea beckon below and history lovers can walk through the medieval quarter and explore the castle ruins and Greek theater, which is still in use for summer performances.

7. New Zealand has shot to prominence since the release of the Lord of the Rings trilogy as a place of great peace and beauty. It's easy to get lost in the tranquility as you relax by the side of a crystal clear mountain lake.

8. Take a walk on the wild side with a safari honeymoon in Africa. The tropical weather and starry night skies amidst the call of the wild will make for some truly memorable steamy nights.

9. Experience the soul of fado (Portuguese love songs) in the soft lighting of a Portuguese café. Start in Lisbon and make your way out to Obidos-one of Portugal's most romantic medieval villages. The village, in the midst of a 12th century castle, was gifted by King Dinis to Queen Isabel as a wedding present. The cobbled streets, Gothic architecture, and colorful houses all add up to a beautiful medieval experience.

10. For a unique experience, take a tour of the rainforest, swim under the waterfalls, and explore the ancient Mayan ruins in Belize. The perfect destination between November and May, Belize is home to the second longest barrier reef anywhere in the world.

Paul writes for Wedding car hire plymouth and Rolls Royce hire Plymouth.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Paul_Symonds

Top 5 European Art Cities

2008-08-05T11:27:00.001+08:00

If you're looking for a culture and art holiday, Europe is a fine choice. The continent has an impressive array of galleries, museums and exhibitions meaning that you're likely to find something of interest in almost every major city you visit. Yet with this much choice comes a new problem, how do you pick which European art city to prioritise? Hopefully this top 5 European art cities should help you decide which place to start your art history holiday in...

Berlin

Since the fall of the Berlin Wall in 1989, Germany's capital has been a thriving European arts centre, mixing the old and the new with great aplomb. For the culture vulture, the first place to investigate is the Museumsinsel ("museum island"), which is a section of five museums: the Alte Nationalgalerie, Altes Museum, Neues Museum, Bodemuseum and Pergamonmuseum. The Alte Nationalgalerie hosts works by German and French Impressionists, as well as German artists including Adolph von Menzel, Max Lieberman and Karl Freidrich Schinkel, while the Altes Museum hosts treasures from Ancient Roma and Greece.
Elsewhere in the city you can take in the Dahlemer Museum which displays art and culture from other continents, the Gemaldegalerie which features the paintings of Botticelli and Rembrandt, and the Neue Nationalgalerie which features more modern works by the likes of Picasso and Munch. Berlin is a great choice to take an art history holiday!

Rome

Rome's art and architecture spans two millennia, with ancient sculptures sitting comfortably alongside abstract modern pieces in one of the most stunning cities in Europe. Art is all over the city, and even if you wanted to avoid it, you'd be hard pushed to be able to do so! The Vatican Museums are the main highlight - composed of a large collection of renaissance works and antiques line the Vatican buildings, are there are a few modern works of religious themed work from the likes of Gauguin, Chagall and Picasso. Of course, the Sistine Chapel is a must see on your visit to Rome. Its legendary ceiling is one of the best known pieces of art in the world, let alone Europe. Alongside these Catholic collections, there are a number of museums and galleries most certainly worth a look, including the Borghese Gallery, the National Gallery of Ancient Art and the National Etruscan Museum.

Vienna

The Hapsburgs' empire is responsible for much of Vienna's impressive collection of artistic pieces on display to this day. The ruling family controlled vast lands between 1282 and 1918, and much of the spoils are on display to this day, making it an excellent choice for those wanting to see high quality art in Europe. The majority of this, and a clear sign of the diverse lands controlled, is visible at the Kunsthistorisches Museum which boasts ancient art by the Greeks and Egyptians, to (slightly) more modern pieces by Pieter Brueghel and Rembrandt. For something a little more modern, visitors to Vienna should head to the MuseumsQuartier Wien which hosts the Leopold Museum and the Museum Moderner Kunst Stiftung Ludwig Wien. The former has work by Egon Schiele and Gustav Klimt, while the latter hosts contemporary pieces from hyperrealism to American pop art. If these three don't satisfy, Vienna has plenty more artistic merit going for it, including the Osterreichische Galerie Belvedere (medieval and baroque) and the Kunsthalle Wien (contemporary art including Kandinsky, Picasso and Pollock.)

Florence

Florence could well be the cultural capital of Europe - art is so hard to avoid during a stay there! With paintings, sculptures and architecture encompassing everything you see and do it's easy to become overwhelmed, but as the birthplace of Renaissance art this is no real surprise. Simply there are too many museums and galleries to list, and simply wandering where the mood takes you guarantees an educational and entertaining experience, but make sure you don't miss out on the most famous cultural buildings: The Galleria dell' Accademia (the place Michelangelo's David calls home!), the Galleria degli Uffizi (the first museum for modern art in Europe) and of course the magnificence of the Duomo. If you're planning an art holiday in Italy, this (along with Rome) should definitely be on your list!

Paris

Paris is such an art city that the greatest pleasure is exploring the smaller galleries dotted around the place, or taking in the wonderful architecture from a street side café. That said, like in Florence, there are certain museums and galleries widely regarded as absolute 'must sees'. In terms of sheer renown, it's hard to beat the Louvre (though even harder to beat the crowds around its most famous exhibits - the Mona Lisa and Venus de Milo!). A converted royal palace, even the building itself is aesthetically splendid, and a stroll around the building is a real pleasure. The Musee d'Orsay is another treasure - a neo-classical railway station converted into an exhibition space. It hosts an impressive number of 19th and 20th century pieces by artists such as Cézanne, Renoir, Monet, Manet and Van Gogh. Fans of modern art can't go wrong with the iconic Centre Pompidou, which itself is a monument to modern architecture. As well as this famous trio, you can find several smaller museums devoted to individual artists, including Picasso and Rodin. If you're looking for a European art holiday close to home, you can't beat a trip to Paris.

All of these cities offer a great mix of culture, art, and splendid atmosphere to enjoy the rest of your holiday. Whether you want a European art history holiday, or just to supplement the area's other attractions, you can't go wrong with any of these cities.

Kieron Sellens is the marketing manager of the Association of Independent Tour Operators (AiTO). With AITO's cultural breaks you can choose from tailor-made art holidays, historical tours, musical trips and many more. The independent tour operators that AITO represent specialise in worldwide holidays tailored to their customers' requirements.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Kieron_Sellens

How To Plan A Trip

2008-06-28T21:54:00.004+08:00

Some trips are scrimped and saved for, and others can be spontaneous and exciting. All trips are meant for adventure, relaxation and enjoyment. By planning well, you can ensure you that you and your family can enjoy a hassle-free trip!

Steps

Choose your location. Research it online and discuss it with your fellow travelers. Make a list.
Keep in mind weather and climatic conditions, merits and demerits of the place, types of recreation (beaches, culture, shopping), and facilities (transport, eating out, etc).
Plan around your location. What clothes are suitable? Are any medications needed? Do you need to take foodstuffs? What about currency?
Make a loose schedule. Planning too far ahead may backfire, because vacations hardly ever go as planned. Plan for spontaneity, but keep hints from travel guides in mind. Mark places to visit and things to do. How many days do you have? You should keep the overall schedule in mind - you do not want to end up too tired (or alternatively, bored).
Make a list. Write down the places you want to visit, including restaurants, museums, malls, and other places of interest. This will help give you ideas and prevent being completely lost when you arrive and do not know what to do.
Make a budget. If you plan ahead, you can save on ticket prices.
Travel light. Leave space for shopping. Moreover, traveling with lots of luggage restricts your movement and causes discomfort. Only pack the necessities.
Notify a friend or family about your leaving. If possible, leave them a contact number or address.
If traveling internationally, make sure your documents are in order. Keep your passport, travel documents, visas, and similar items in a safe pouch.
Buy film, or keep digital camera batteries on hand.
Put vacation notices on your mail, and remember to set your answering machine.

Tips

If you are new to traveling, plan your trip through a travel agency, especially if you are going to a foreign country. It will make your trip so much easier!
Try to book your hotel in advance HotelsCombined.com Compare 30+ travel sites at once!
If traveling with a large group, arrange for a car to pick you up from the airport to minimize hassle.
Call home!
Get book(s) about your destination from your local bookstore

Warnings

Traveling can be hectic. If traveling to a new place, make sure you keep medication (especially for children). Keep your documents and precious possessions safe. Mugging and theft is common.
Don't keep sharp objects in your luggage. Security has been greatly beefed up, and your luggage may be checked.
(article provided by wikiHow)

How To Plan A Family Vacation

2008-06-28T21:43:00.003+08:00

Planning a family vacation does not have to be planning for a disaster waiting to happen. Planning ahead is the key to a successful family vacation. Read on for tips that will make your next family vacation the best ever!

Steps

If you are traveling with children make sure your vacation is "kid friendly."
Most vacation destinations fill up early. Make hotel, car rental and activity reservations as soon as you know what your vacation schedule is.
Have a family counsel before the trip and together plan activities that will be fun for everyone. Using a guide with local activities listed is helpful. Alternatively give every family member a "day" that is theirs to choose the activity.
A well planned trip is essential for a fun trip for everyone. Knowing in advance where you will be and what other sights and activities are close by will keep you schedule fluid and flexible to change.
Keep a slot open for you or you and your partner to do something relaxing without the kids, whether it is soaking in a hot tub, hiking or dinner or walking along the beach (if there is a beach).

Tips

Bring along a kit with heavy paper, scissors, and stickers. At the end of each day have the kids make themselves a page with memories collected from that day to put into a scrapbook at the end of the trip.
A vacation does not have to be to distant locales. My family spent great summers never leaving the state by taking mini-trips around the state throughout the vacation months. Take advantage of historical sites, national parks and other places of interest close to home.
If you find that the kids are getting restless don't hesitate to stop early and save whatever activity you missed for another time. Sometimes just getting to the hotel room and maybe taking a dip in the pool is all that is needed to get everyone in the mood for continued site-seeing the next day.
When brainstorming and planning activities, each family member has to be honest in their opinions but also open-minded to the opinions of the rest of the group.
If you are traveling with two or more families with children, you can "tag team" some activities so someone is not stuck with all of the children under age five. Usually, half of each couple stayed behind to help in the babysitting effort while the other half went off. Other times you can split the groups up differently so couples could go together.
If you are staying in a condo with a kitchen, you can plan alternate eating meals out and in. After four or five days often people become tired of eating out all the time. Pre-planning when to eat out and what meals to prepare when eating in (and who will prepare them) will help you figure out before the trip which meals you can prepare quickly and what everyone wants to eat.
If you are flying, it's important to know before you leave the total number of pieces of luggage you have. That includes check through, carry-on and unique sized (like carseats or strollers). You should also know the breakdown of numbers for pieces checking through, carry-on and extras like car seats. Luggage check-in can be crazy. Knowing how many and which pieces ahead of time keeps the chaos to a minimum.
(article provided by wikiHow)