Walk Walk

Haadyai, Thailand

2011-03-08T20:54:00.006+08:00

Hat Yai (หาดใหญ่), also Haad Yai or Had Yai) is a city in southern Thailand near the boundary to Malaysia. It has a population of 157,359 (2008) in the city itself and about 800,000 in the greater Hat Yai area. Hat Yai is the largest city of Songkhla Province, the largest metropolitan area in Southern, and third largest metropolitan area of the country. It is often mistaken as being the capital of the province, but Songkhla is the capital and the center of administration and culture, while Hat Yai is the business center. The two cities are considered as twin cities due to their close connection, and accordingly, Hat Yai and Songkhla form the Greater Hatyai-Songkhla Metropolitan Area. The name "Hat Yai" is a short version of "Mahat Yai", meaning big mahat (มะหาด) tree, a relative of jackfruits in genus Artocarpus

Filipino Market, Kota Kinabalu, Sabah

2011-02-28T18:45:00.005+08:00

Filipino Market, Kota Kinabalu, Sabah are mostly run by Filipino immigrants. A variety of Filipino and local handicrafts are sold in the hundreds of cramped stalls, along winding alleyways which are strung by low-slung curtains of shells, baskets and bags. You can find a diverse range of products available at the Filipino Market - from traditional foods to medicine and toiletries. Even if you're not looking for anything in particular, a trip to the market can offer a great cultural experience and an enjoyable excursion when visiting this area. The Filipino Market is a good place to buy cultured pearls and has everything from fake gemstones to camagong-wood salad bowls, fibre shirts and traditional Indonesian medicines. Just outside the stalls all along the kerb of the road there are makeshift sheds where Filipino tailors station themselves and their sewing machines. They provide very cheap stitching services to those who need their jeans altered or patched, bags or clothing mended.

Pasar Petisah, Medan, Indonesia

2011-02-22T17:49:00.003+08:00

Pasar Petisah merupakan salah satu pasar tradisional yang cukup terkenal di Kota Medan. Pasar yang seusia Kota Medan ini selalu ramai dikunjungi oleh para pembeli, termasuk oleh para pelancong yang datang dari luar Kota Medan. Para pelancong tersebut biasanya membeli oleh-oleh untuk dibawa pulang. Di pasar yang bertingkat dua ini, para pengunjung dapat menemukan berbagai macam dagangan, mulai dari sayur-mayur, ikan asin, sampai busana dan perlengkapan elektronik. Barang-barang elektronik, pakaian jadi, dan furniture berada di lantai atas, sedangkan para penjual sayur dan buah-buahan berada di lantai bawah. Di pasar ini juga banyak yang menjual hasil kerajinan tangan khas Sumatra Utara seperti patung kayu, gelang, kalung, tas anyaman, cincin, dan tikar anyaman. Untuk kerajinan bordir dan kebaya menempati lokasi di lantai satu dan beberapa berada di luar pasar dekat tempat parkir, sehingga cukup mudah dijangkau. Para pengunjung yang ingin membeli kebaya, dapat langsung memilih beraneka model dan warna yang banyak tersedia. Dan jika ingin membuat kebaya yang didesain sendiri, di lokasi ini juga tersedia para penjahit yang siap membuatkan kebaya yang sesuai dengan keinginan pembeli. Di samping itu, di pasar ini juga dijual berbagai manisan buah tanpa bahan pengawet, seperti manisan buah mangga, kedondong, salak, rambutan, dan jambu biji, sehingga merupakan tempat yang ideal bagi penikmat manisan. Hal yang menarik adalah di sekitar botol-botol manisan, banyak dihinggapi lebah madu, sebagai penanda manisnya buah manisan.

Pasar Ikan Lama, Medan, Indonesia

2011-02-22T17:18:00.009+08:00

Pasar Ikan Lama, Medan (Traditional Market) selling anything under the sun; especially fabrics, telekungs, toys, shirts, pants, handbags, belts, shoes, laces, curtains, carpets, dolls, cushions, baskets, souvenirs, food, drinks, wedding materials, etc ... but must bargain till you are out of breath!

Medan, Indonesia

2011-02-22T16:59:00.006+08:00

Medan, Indonesia is the capital of the North Sumatra province in Indonesia. Located on the northern coast, Medan is the fourth largest city in Indonesia, and the largest Indonesian city outside Java. The city is bordered by the Deli Serdang Regency to the east, south and west, and the Strait of Malacca to the north. It is close to the volcano Sinabung, which erupted in August 2010 after a 400 year dormant state. Medan is divided into 21 districts (kecamatan) and 151 subdistricts (kelurahan). Medan started as a village called Kampung Medan (Medan Village). Kampung Medan was founded by Guru Patimpus around the 1590s. Because Kampung Medan sits on Tanah Deli (Land of Deli), Kampung Medan is also referred as Medan-Deli.

Irrawady River, Yangon : Sunset Cruise

2011-01-22T14:59:00.006+08:00

The Irrawaddy River or Ayeyarwady River, also spelt Ayeyarwaddy) is a river that flows from north to south through Myanmar. It is the country's largest river and most important commercial waterway. Originating from the confluence of the N'mai and Mali rivers, it flows relatively straight North-South before emptying through the Irrawaddy Delta into the Andaman Sea. Its drainage area of about 413,000 km² covers a large part of Burma.

This 'sunset cruise' was included in our 'Golf Package to Yangon'. There was another Malaysian couple with us (just the 4 of us). Took a round trip to the river mouth and back; all in all it took 1 hour. Our arrival back at the jetty; coincides with the sun setting down !!!

Bogyoke Market, Yangon

2011-01-22T14:39:00.006+08:00

Bogyoke Aung San Market; formerly Scott's Market) is a major bazaar located in Pabedan township in downtown Yangon, Myanmar. Known for its colonial architecture and inner cobblestone streets, the market is a major tourist destination, dominated by antique, Burmese handicraft and jewellery shops, art galleries, and clothing stores. Bogyoke Market is a popular black market location to exchange currency. The market also has a number of stores for local shoppers, selling medicine, foodstuffs, garments and foreign goods. The ground floor and the first floor are lined with small antique shops selling old coins, bank-notes, postage stamps and medals. In the middle of the market are jewelers, selling famous Burmese jade, Burmese rubies and other precious stones. The rest are art galleries, handicraft shops, restaurants and clothes stores. The new wing of the market, across Bogyoke Aung San Market Road, houses shops that sell medicine, foodstuffs, garments and foreign goods. The market is also known for its black market money changers, with jewelry merchants typically able to change the largest bills at the best rates.

Shwedegon Pagoda, Yangon

2011-01-22T14:29:00.005+08:00

Shwedagon Pagoda [tɕaiʔ təkɜ̀ŋ]; officially titled Shwedagon Zedi Daw, also known as the Golden Pagoda, is a 98-metre (approx. 321.5 feet) gilded stupa located in Yangon, Burma. The pagoda lies to the west of Kandawgyi Lake, on Singuttara Hill, thus dominating the skyline of the city. It is the most sacred Buddhist pagoda for the Burmese with relics of the past four Buddhas enshrined within, namely the staff of Kakusandha, the water filter of Koṇāgamana, a piece of the robe of Kassapa and eight hairs of Gautama, the historical Buddha. According to legend, the Shwedagon Pagoda is 2500 years old. Archaeologists believe the stupa was actually built sometime between the 6th and 10th centuries by the Mon, but this is a very controversial issue because according to the records by Buddhist monks it was built before Lord Buddha died in 486 BC. The story of Shwedagon Pagoda begins with two merchant brothers, Taphussa and Bhallika, from the land of Ramanya, meeting the Lord Gautama Buddha and receiving eight of the Buddha's hairs to be enshrined in Burma. The two brothers made their way to Burma and with the help of the local king, King Okkalapa, found Singuttara Hill, where relics of other Buddhas preceding Gautama Buddha had been enshrined. When the hairs were taken from their golden casket to be enshrined some incredible things happened.

Yangon, Myanmar : The Streets By Day

2011-01-22T14:12:00.006+08:00

Yangon, Myanmar; formerly Rangoon, was the capital of Myanmar until it was superseded by Naypyidaw in November 2005. Today, with a population of over 5 million people, it remains the largest city and main economic hub of Myanmar. The city is an amalgamation of British, Burmese, Chinese, and Indian influences, and is known for its colonial architecture, which although decaying, remains an almost unique example of a 19th-century British colonial capital. New high-rise buildings were constructed from the 1990s as the government began to allow private investment. However, Yangon continues to be a city of the past, as seen by its longyi-wearing pedestrians, its street vendors, and its pungent smells.

Men with their 'longyi'

Delicious 'halal' "chicken/mutton beriyani"

Right hand drive cars, driving on the right side of the road

Anything under the sun, is sold on the streets of Yangon

Remote Controls, anyone; any type; any model !!!

The road is always busy busy busy (cars and people)

There are approx 30 mosques in downtown Yangon alone

Any 'wares' are available here

'Sireh' is always available everywhere (their 'chewing gum')

Anybody can sell anything, as long as you have a small table

Even the market is by the road sides

"Longyis' anyone; 3,000 kayts (or less) each

Buses are always full

CDs and VCDs are an abundance being sold on the streets

All kinds of food and drinks are also sold here

Belts, wallets, lamps, shoes, dresses, longyis, shirts, pants, etc ...

They always tuck-in their shirt into their 'longyis'

Hats, purses, socks, shirts, dolls, belts, medicines ???

Jimbaran Beach, Bali

2010-12-30T23:29:00.005+08:00

Located on Bali's west coast - Jimbaran offers a small secluded beach area, where tranquility and peace are the perfect antidote to a stressful world. The land gently slopes away from the beach revealing exclusive celebrity haunts hidden under a canopy of leafy tropical forest. Jimbaran Beach is an extremely tranquil beach and perfectly white. Walking or just sitting and waiting for the sunset are two of the most popular activities to do on this beach. The dining spots in Jimbaran Beach are famous for serving delicious sea food with local recipes. A must is a sunset dinner along one of the many delicious cafes offering the freshest seafood around, lining Jimbaran beach. The breeze from the ocean and the sound of the waves are enhance your total dining experience.

Tanah Lot, Bali

2010-12-30T12:10:00.005+08:00

Tanah Lot is a rock formation off the Indonesian island of Bali. It is home of a pilgrimage temple, the Pura Tanah Lot (literally "Tanah Lot temple") and a popular tourist and cultural icon for photography and general exoticism. Tanah Lot is claimed to be the work of the 15th century priest Nirartha. During his travels along the south coast he saw the rock-island's beautiful setting and rested there. Some fishermen saw him, and bought him gifts. Nirartha then spent the night on the little island. Later he spoke to the fishermen and told them to build a shrine on the rock for he felt it to be a holy place to worship the Balinese sea gods. The Tanah Lot temple was built and has been a part of Balinese mythology for centuries. The temple is one of seven sea temples around the Balinese coast

Beratan Lake Temple, Bali

2010-12-30T11:58:00.005+08:00

The name of Ulun Danu Beratan Temple is taken from the lake where the temple is built at Beratan Lake. The name of Beratan Lake is inseparable with the Beratan Mount as Deity and Goddess as fertility source, prosperity to keep the prosperity in life and society life. In papyrus chronicle of the Mengwi, this temple is referred as the name of Parhyangan ri pinggiring danu Beratan (sanctum located in lakeside of Beratan Lake ). Ulun is come from Hulu word meaning head or power and in this case is intended by Ulun Danu Beratan means power of Beratan Lake that is Danu Goddess

Mengwi Royal Family's Taman Ayun Temple, Bali

2010-12-30T11:37:00.003+08:00

Taman Ayun Temple is a Royal Temple of Mengwi Empire and it is located in Mengwi Village, Mengwi sub district, Badung regency and about 18 Km north side of Denpasar town. It is strategically located beside of major roadway between Denpasar to Singaraja. It is set on the land which is surrounded by the big fish pond and look like a drift on the water. It owns the beautiful temple building with multistoried roof and Balinese Architecture. The wide beautiful landscape garden in front courtyard to welcome all visitors who come and visit this temple

The Barong Dance, Bali

2010-12-30T11:29:00.003+08:00

Barong is probably the most well known dance. It is also another story telling dance, narrating the fight between good and evil. This dance is the classic example of Balinese way of acting out mythology, resulting in myth and history being blended into one reality. The story goes that Rangda, the mother of Erlangga, the King of Bali in the tenth century, was condemned by Erlangga's father because she practiced black magic. After she became a widow, she summoned all the evil spirits in the jungle, the leaks and the demons, to come after Erlangga. A fight occurred, but she and her black magic troops were too strong that Erlangga had to ask for the help of Barong. Barong came with Erlangga's soldiers, and fight ensued. Rangda casted a spell that made Erlangga soldiers all wanted to kill themselves, pointing their poisoned keris into their own stomachs and chests. Barong casted a spell that turned their body resistant to the sharp keris. At the end, Barong won, and Rangda ran away

Terrace Padi Fields, Tegallalang, Bali

2010-12-30T11:16:00.004+08:00

One of the most spectacular rice field terraces is Tegallalang area, just about 15 minutes drive outside of Ubud. Surrounding gorge full of rice fields has over the years attracted many photographers who captured its images on film and photos. Overtime Tegallalang rice fields became an attraction in itself. Even though a lot of rice fields surrounding Ubud have been converted, terrace rice fields still remain the most popular feature of Bali landscapes. Most of them have been created around 9th century and engineered by the Balinese themselves using water coming from the mountains. The result are step, garden like terraces designed on hillsides and mountain edges with irrigation channels that keep them wet all year round

Pura Thirta Empul, Bali

2010-12-30T11:00:00.005+08:00

Pura Tirta Empul : sacred spring is said to have been created by Indra and to have curative properties. The tradition continues almost unchanged at the temple today. History. Legend has it that the sacred spring was created by the god Indra. His forces had been poisoned by Mayadanawa, so he pierced the earth to create a fountain of immortality to revive them. An inscription dates the founding of a temple at the site to 926 AD. Ever since - for more than a thousand years - the Balinese have come to bathe in the sacred waters for healing and spiritual merit.

Kintamani Village, Bali, Indonesia

2010-12-30T10:51:00.003+08:00

Kintamani is the most favorite tourist destinations in Bali with the active volcano of mount Batur and beautiful lake. Kintamani is surrounded by the captivating nature and there are six ancient villages around cauldron of Batur Lake which is often conceived by Bali Age Village. The local people from these Bali Age villages own the unique cultures, houses and life style. Kintamani Area is consisted of some Villages those are Kedisan Village , Buahan, Abang, Trunyan, Songan, South Batur, Middle Batur, North Batur, Sukawana and Kintamani Village . The total of resident in these area are about 15 thousand who are mostly working as farmer, merchant, or work at industrial tourism

Discovery Shopping Mall, Kuta Beach, Bali

2010-12-30T10:39:00.004+08:00

For shopping and simply loving life, The Discovery Mall is your ultimate entertaiment destination. From your favourite boutiques and restaurants, to free live entertaiment in The Mall, you’ll enjoy an experience like no other in Bali. Come live the magic of The Discovery Shopping Mall

The Seminyak Village, Kuta, Bali

2010-12-30T10:23:00.004+08:00

The Seminyak Village : Located in the heart of fashionable Seminyak area, a prime location which is only a step away to Petitenget White Sandy Beach, temple and also very close to international cuisine, boutique, shops & more activities along oberoi street to legian until double six area. “The Seminyak Village” Resort & Spa formerly well known as “Chez Bali Villa & Spa” is a complex property surrounded by lush tropical garden offering Nice Private Villas and Comfortable Rooms Resort. Friendly & personalized service are ready to assist every guest at anytime. The Seminyak Village is the perfect choise of accommodation to suite any type of holiday & budget. Great value for money & ideal for every one who wish to experience the best Bali in a peacefull & relaxed enviroment.

Ho Chi Minh (Saigon) - Islam and Guaranteed Halal Food

2010-01-06T14:30:00.012+08:00

Mosques and Mushollas in Ho Chi Minh (Saigon) where we solat and places where we had our 'guaranteed' halal food for lunch and dinner

Con Phung (Phoenix) Island - Fruits, Honey Bees & "Rokkodaaie" Belts

2010-01-04T11:31:00.010+08:00

Con Phung Island is also known as the Island of the Coconut Monk named after a monk, Ong Dao Dua, who meditated on the island for three years during which he ate nothing but coconuts. An activesupporter of the reunification of Vietnam, he strongly believed that reunification could be achieved by peaceful means. In the early 1960s he founded a community in support of this ideal, and as a result was imprisoned by President Diem on a number occasions. At his time, the island became a sanctuary for thosewho were attempting to escape the ravages of war. You can reach Con Phung island by boat from Mytho which takes about half an hour.

We had good fresh fruits, drink tea with honey and bought our 'rokkodaaie' belts.

Con Phung (Phoenix) Island - Coconut Candies & Pony Rides

2010-01-04T11:16:00.007+08:00

The Con Phung Island (Phoenix Island) is part of Ben Tre Province and is across the Mekong River from My Tho. This island used to be a commune for the "Coconut Monk" (Ong Dao Dua). It is an island with lots of natural canals, Vietnamese cottage industries, snake farm, coconuts and water palms. In this island you may be able to go and peek inside the Vietnamese homes, tasted coconut candies and drink tea made from honey bees.

Here we ate and bought delicious coconut candies

Thoi Son (Unicorn) Island - Boating

2010-01-04T10:59:00.007+08:00

Thoi Son Island, accessible by a 45-minute boat ride on the Mekong River from My Tho City, is located in Chau Thanh District, Tien Giang Province. The path through the island is bordered with fruit trees bearing plums, mangoes, and longans. Since 1990, Thoi Son has become a tourist resort welcoming hundreds of visitors. The tiled-roof houses surrounded by many generations of fruit-bearing trees, the cozy little restaurants in bonsai tree gardens make of Thoi Son Island the ideal location for a short rest. The path through the island is bordered with fruit trees bearing plums, mangoes, and longans. Visitors will also enjoy Con Phung Island, and coconut sweets and jams.

Mighty Mekong River @ Mỹ Tho

2010-01-04T10:37:00.009+08:00

Mỹ Tho is the capital city and municipality of Tiền Giang Province, located in the Mekong Delta region of southern Vietnam. It has a population of approximately 160,000. Miss World 2010 will be held in this city on November 2010. As the regional capital My Tho is the main market dealing in all the produce from the region as well as fish and seafood from My Tho's large ocean going fishing fleet. The very large and exuburant market is one of South Vietnam's biggest sources for dried fish and other dried seafood products such as Kho Muc (dried squid). At night the market is dedicated to the dealing and sorting of Mekong River fish, particularly catfish for Ho Chi Minh City's wholesale markets. Produce, especially fruit and vegetables, is delivered by boat directly to the market. It is a popular starting point for tourists to take a boat trip on the Mekong River.

Củ Chi Tunnels, Củ Chi, Vietnam

2010-01-04T09:54:00.010+08:00

The Củ Chi Tunnels are an immense network of connecting underground tunnels located in the Củ Chi district of Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon), Vietnam, and are part of a much larger network of tunnels that underlie much of the country. The Củ Chi tunnels were the location of several military campaigns during the Vietnam War, and were the Viet Cong's base of operations for the Tết Offensive in 1968. The tunnels were used by Viet Cong guerrillas as hiding spots during combat, as well as serving as communication and supply routes, hospitals, food and weapon caches and living quarters for numerous guerrilla fighters. The role of the tunnel systems should not be underestimated in its importance to the Viet Cong in resisting American operations and protracting the war, eventually culminating in an American withdrawal.

Ho Chi Minh (Saigon) By Day

2010-01-03T20:39:00.010+08:00

Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon) (Vietnamese: Thành phố Hồ Chí Minh pronunciation is the largest city in Vietnam. It was once known as Prey Nokor, an important Khmer seaport prior to annexation by the Vietnamese in the 17th century. Under the name Saigon (Vietnamese: Sài Gòn; pronunciation), it was the capital of the French colony of Cochinchina and later of the independent state of South Vietnam from 1954 to 1975. In 1976, Saigon merged with the surrounding province of Gia Định and was officially renamed Hồ Chí Minh City (although the name Sài Gòn—formally known as District 1—is still commonly used.) The city center is situated on the banks of the Saigon River, 60 kilometers (37 mi) from the South China Sea and 1,760 kilometers (1,094 mi) south of Hanoi, the capital of Vietnam. The metropolitan area, which consists of the Hồ Chí Minh City metropolitan area, Thủ Dầu Một, Dĩ An, Biên Hòa and surrounding towns, is populated by more than 9 million people, making it the most populous metropolitan area in Vietnam and the countries of the former French Indochina.

According to our 'tourist guide', Ho Chi Minh have a population of approximately 14 million and also have approximately 6 million motorcycles on the road !!!

Cho Ben Thanh Market, Ho Chi Minh (Saigon)

2010-01-03T20:32:00.004+08:00

Cho Ben Thanh Market is one of the most interesting places in Ho Chi Minh City, Shopping is good, bargain, bargian is a must, but one of the major interesting thing is "Go for real Vietnamese food". Inside the market food section, there are many vendors and food stalls. Most of them are freshly made to order. In the evening, you must visit Cho Ben Thanh for dinner. Sidewalk restaurants serve real Vietnamese food with white table cloths, the foods are good value and delicious. You can order all kind of original vietnamese food here, deep fried whole fish is one of the best selections in their menul Make sure that you do not sit too deep in to the tent, try to sit outside, it will be cooler and will make your meal more enjoyable.
When you are in Ho Chi Minh City, try to stay near by Cho Ben Thanh, this is a central tourist attractions, walk to the presidentail palace, cathedral, etc. Visit Cho Ben Thanh for dinner at least one time to gain the memorable experience.

Reunification Palace, Ho Chi Minh (Saigon)

2010-01-03T20:16:00.007+08:00

The Reunification Palace befittingly takes its name from the reunion of the Northern and Southern fractions of the country after a hard fought war that ravaged not only Vietnam but also neighboring Laos. The Americans didn’t fare so well either. With regard to the war, the Northern Communists eventually won out and the Palace, once the symbol of the South Vietnamese government, now does much the same for the conquerors. It also remains one of Ho Chi Minh’s most interesting sights. For starters, you cannot help but notice the famed Communist tank that was shown in the media around the world crashing through the fence that some would say symbolized the free world.

Saigon Square, Ho Chi Minh (Saigon)

2010-01-03T20:06:00.006+08:00

Saigon Square is located near Le Duan Boulevard; near Dai Lo Hai Ba Trung Street; near Han Thuyen Street; near Le Duan Boulevard; near Ly Von Huu Street; Saigon Square is geographically located at latitude (10.7816 degrees) 10° 46' 53" North of the Equator and longitude (106.7004 degrees) 106° 42' 1" East of the Prime Meridian on the Map of Ho Chi Minh City.

Angel-In-Us Coffee, Ho Chi Minh (Saigon)

2010-01-03T14:25:00.005+08:00

Angel-In-Us Coffee, Ho Chi Minh - Good hot coffee - cappucino and latte, tasty pastries, clean airconditioned premises, comfortable seating and lovely smiling staff. This is another of the great little coffee shops clustered around the central area of the city. The coffee and pastries are really good and there is a downstairs and upstairs section. 2 computers are available for patrons to use. The prices are very reasonable.

Located in Ho Chi Minh @ 131 Nguyen Hue Street

Ho Chi Minh (Saigon) By Night

2010-01-03T13:34:00.013+08:00

Notre-Dame Basilica, Ho Chi Minh (Saigon)

2010-01-03T13:24:00.005+08:00

Saigon Notre-Dame Basilica is a cathedral is Vietnam. It is located in the south of the country in the centre of Ho Chi Minh City . Saigon Notre-Dame Basilica cathedral was constructed between 1863 and 1880. It is dominated by two towers reaching the height of 58m. Originally there had been a small wooden church in the place of today´s cathedral. All the original building material for the cathedral was imported from France. In 1895 two bell towers, reaching the height of 57.6 m and 6 bronze bells were built. The tiles in Saigon Notre-Dame Basilica are carved with the words Guichard Carvin Marseille St André, France, where they are believed to have been produced. Some tiles are carved with the words "Wang Tai-Saigon". These were probably used to replace tiles damaged at war.

Buu Dien, Ho Chi Minh

2010-01-03T13:07:00.011+08:00

Saigon Central Post Office is also known as the Buu Dien Thanh. It is a postal building in the centre of the city Ho Chi Minh City , which is more known as Saigon, in the southern part of Vietnam. Saigon Central Post Office lies close to poblíž baziliky Notre-Dame Saigon . Saigon Central Post Office was built during the French occupation at the beginning of the 20th century. This is a monumental Gothic style building. It is interesting that its architect was Gustave Eiffel. A large portrait of Ho Chi Minh city is placed in the interior of the building. Internal decoration is opulent in the French style. Today the Saigon Central Post Office building is frequently visited and popular tourist attraction.

Tat Son Nhat International Airport, Ho Chi Minh

2010-01-03T12:55:00.006+08:00

Tan Son Nhat International Airport (Vietnamese: Sân bay Quốc tế Tân Sơn Nhất), is Vietnam's largest international airport in terms of area (800 ha/1,977 acres compared with 650 ha/1,606 acres of Hanoi's Noi Bai International Airport and Danang's Da Nang International Airport). It has a handling capacity of 15-17 million passengers per year, compared with the capacity of Hanoi - Noi Bai airport of 8 million passengers and Da Nang's 2 million passengers). It is also the largest airport of Vietnam in terms of passengers handled (with an estimated number of over 11 million passengers per year in 2007, more than a half of that of Vietnam's all airports), serves Ho Chi Minh City as well as Dong Nam Bo in southern Vietnam. Its IATA code SGN was derived from the city's former name of Saigon.

Haadyai, Thailand

2009-12-21T09:14:00.008+08:00

Hat Yai, Thailand (Thai : หาดใหญ่) is a city in southern Thailand near the boundary to Malaysia. With a population of 157,359 (2008) in the core city and about 800,000 in the Greater Hat Yai. Hat Yai is the biggest city of Songkhla Province and the largest metropolitan area in Southern Thailand, and is thus often mistaken as being the capital of the province. However Songkhla is the capital and the center of administration and culture while Hat Yai is the business center. The two cities are considered as twin cities due to the close connection, accordingly, Hat Yai and Songkhla form the Greater Hatyai-Songkhla Metropolitan Area. The name "Hat Yai" is a short version of "Ma Hat Yai", meaning big Ma Hat (Thai: มะหาด) tree, a relative of jackfruits in genus Artocarpus. Originally named Khok Sa-Met Choon, Hat Yai was a small village until the southern railway was built there. The junction which connected the town of Songkhla with the main route was originally located in the Utapao area, but was moved to Khok Su-Met Choon in 1922 when the Utapao area turned out to be flood prone.

Leicester Square, London (2009)

2009-12-16T23:32:00.005+08:00

Leicester Square is a pedestrianised square in the West End of London, England. The Square lies within an area bound by Lisle Street, to the north; Charing Cross Road, to the east; Orange Street, to the south; and Whitcomb Street, to the west. The park at the centre of the Square is bound by Cranbourn Street, to the north; Leicester Street, to the east; Irving Street, to the south; and a section of road designated simply as Leicester Square, to the west. It is within the City of Westminster, and about equal distances north of Trafalgar Square, east of Piccadilly Circus, west of Covent Garden, and south of Cambridge Circus.

Science Muzeum, London (2009)

2009-12-16T23:25:00.004+08:00

The Science Museum was founded in 1857 with objects shown at the Great Exhibition held in the Crystal Palace. Today the Museum is world renowned for its historic collections, awe-inspiring galleries and inspirational exhibitions. Bringing science to life, and life to science ... welcome to the Science Museum

Natural History Muzeum, London (2009)

2009-12-16T23:03:00.006+08:00

Natural History Museum
Cromwell Road, LondonSW7

Bayswater, London (2009)

2009-12-16T19:55:00.007+08:00

Bayswater is an area of west London in the City of Westminster. Bayswater is one of London's most cosmopolitan areas, with the significant diversity of the local population added to by having one of London's highest concentration of hotels. Notably, there is a significant Arab population towards Edgware Road, a large number of Americans, a substantial Greek community attracted by London's Greek Orthodox Cathedral, the area is also a centre of London's Brazilian community and a substantial local population. There are also purpose built apartment blocks dating from the inter-war period as well as more recent developments, and a large Council Estate, the 650 flat Hallfield Estate. There are some garden squares in the area. Queensway and Westbourne Grove are busy High Streets, with a very large number of ethnic restaurants. It has a population density of 17,500 people per square kilometre.

We used to live here; on Wesbourne Grove Terrace; from 1988 to 1992

Marble Arch, London (2009)

2009-12-16T19:52:00.001+08:00

Marble Arch, London. In 1828, John Nash designed the arch. It was originally erected on The Mall as a gateway to the new Buckingham Palace. In 1851, the arch was moved to its present location during the building of the east front of the Palace. It has been speculated that the arch might be moved to Hyde Park, or to some other location. It is a white Carrara marble monument in Hyde Park, at the western end of Oxford Street, near the Marble Arch Underground Station. Historically, only members of the royal family and the King's Troop, Royal Horse Artillery were allowed to pass through the arch in ceremonial procession. Today, the arch is open to pedestrians.

Hyde Park, London (2009)

2009-12-16T19:35:00.004+08:00

Hyde Park is one of London's finest landscapes and covers over 350 acres. Henry VIII acquired Hyde Park from the monks of Westminster Abbey in 1536; he and his court were often to be seen on thundering steeds in the hunt for deer. It remained a private hunting ground until James I came to the throne and permitted limited access. The King appointed a ranger, or keeper, to take charge of the park. It was Charles I who changed the nature of the park completely. He had the Ring (north of the present Serpentine boathouses) created and in 1637 opened the park to the general public.

Diana Memorial Fountain, London (2009)

2009-12-16T17:57:00.005+08:00

Memorial to Diana, Princess of Wales was opened by Her Majesty The Queen on 6th July 2004. The fountain was built with the best materials, talent and technology. It contains 545 pieces of Cornish granite - each shaped by the latest computer-controlled machinery and pieced together using traditional skills. The design aims to reflect Diana's life, water flows from the highest point in two directions as it cascades, swirls and bubbles before meeting in a calm pool at the bottom. The water is constantly being refreshed and is drawn from London's water table. The Memorial also symbolises Diana's quality and openness. There are three bridges where you can cross the water and go right to the heart of the fountain. We hope visitors will feel at home when they visit this special place.

Kensington Gardens, London (2009)

2009-12-16T17:32:00.003+08:00

Kensington Gardens was formerly part of Hyde Park. The Gardens are particularly popular for sunbathing and picnics in fine weather. It is also popular as a healthy walking route to work for commuters. The paths are used extensively by joggers and runners. Cycling is allowed on the designated path linking the Queen's Gate to West Carriage Drive, Mount Gate to the Broadwalk and the broadwalk itself from Black Lion Gate to Palace Gate. Informal games do take place in the Gardens but are discouraged in view of the importance of the historic landscape and the desire to maintain their primary role as a peaceful refuge for people living, working or visiting Central London.

Madame Tussauds, London (2009)

2009-12-16T17:09:00.007+08:00

Madame Tussauds is a famous wax museum in London with branches in a number of major cities. It was set up by wax sculptor Marie Tussaud. Marie Tussaud (1761–1850) was born Marie Grosholtz in Strasbourg, France. Her mother worked as a housekeeper for Dr. Philippe Curtius, who was a physician skilled in wax modelling. Curtius taught Tussaud the art of wax modelling. Tussaud created her first wax figure, of Voltaire, in 1777. Madame Tussaud's wax museum has now grown to become a major tourist attraction in London. It has expanded with branches in Amsterdam, Berlin, Las Vegas, New York City, Hong Kong, Shanghai and Washington, D.C., with an additional location scheduled to open in Hollywood in 2009. Today's wax figures at Tussauds include historical and royal figures, film stars, sports stars and famous murderers.

Winter Wonderland @ Hyde Park, London (2009)

2009-12-16T11:56:00.005+08:00

Winter Wonderland, London is set between Hyde Park Corner and the Serpentine over six weeks; perfect day out for family, friends and colleagues to delight in the magical atmosphere of London during Christmas

Yameen's Graduation @ Southwark Cathedral, London (2009)

2009-12-16T11:32:00.011+08:00

Southwark Cathedral is the oldest cathedral church building in London, and archaeological evidence shows there was Roman pagan worship here well before that.
Significantly, Southwark stands at the oldest crossing point of the tidal Thames at what was the only entrance to the City of London across the river for many centuries. It is not only a place of worship but also of hospitality to every kind of person: princes and paupers, prelates and prostitutes, poets, playwrights, prisoners and patients have all found refuge here.
Yameen's Graduation was hosted here.

Yazmin Haji Abdul Aziz graduated with a B Sc Actuarial Science with Honours; from City University, London
on Wednesday 2nd December 2009

Camden Lock, Camden, London (2009)

2009-12-15T18:18:00.003+08:00

Camden Lock, or Hampstead Road Locks is a twin manually-operated lock on the Regent's Canal in Camden Town, London Borough of Camden. The sign identifying the lock reads "Hampstead Road Lock". The locks were constructed between 1818–20 by James Morgan, with John Nash, supervising engineer. It is the only twin-lock remaining on the Canal, the remainder having been modified to single lock operation. The current locks are Grade II listed and replaced an innovative hydropneumatic lock designed by William Congreve in an attempt to conserve water, which was a failure. The lock is to the west of the Camden High Street road bridge. The yard and former warehouses, an area known as Camden Lock, are on the north side of the canal, at the junction with Chalk Farm Road. This area is adjacent to a canal basin and holds Camden Lock Market, one of the group of markets often called collectively Camden Market. It is a busy market popular with visitors, with music venues, cafes and canal towpath walks.

Paddington, London (2009)

2009-12-15T18:13:00.003+08:00

Paddington station also known as London Paddington, is a major National Rail and London Underground station complex in the Paddington area of central London, England. The site is an historic one, having served as the London terminus of the Great Western Railway and its successors since 1838. Much of the current mainline station dates back to 1854, and was designed by Isambard Kingdom Brunel. The site was first served by Underground trains in 1863, and was the original western terminus of the Metropolitan Railway, the world's first underground railway. Despite its historic nature, and the wish to preserve many of its features, the complex has recently been modernised, and has a new role as the terminus of the dedicated Heathrow Express service.

Harrods of London (2009)

2009-12-15T17:51:00.005+08:00

Harrods is a department store located on Brompton Road in Knightsbridge, London, England. The Harrods brand also applies to other enterprises undertaken by the Harrods group of companies including Harrods Bank, Harrods Estates, Harrods Aviation and Air Harrods. The store occupies a 4.5-acre site and has over one million square feet of selling space in over 330 departments. This makes Harrods one of the largest department stores in the world. The Harrods motto is Omnia Omnibus Ubique — All Things for All People, Everywhere. Several of its departments, including the seasonal Christmas department and the Food Hall, are world famous.

Covent Garden, London (2009)

2009-12-14T14:18:00.005+08:00

Covent Garden is a district in London, England, located in the easternmost parts of the City of Westminster and the southwestern corner of the London Borough of Camden. The area is dominated by shopping, street performers, and entertainment facilities, and it contains an entrance to the Royal Opera House, which is also widely-known simply as "Covent Garden", and the bustling Seven Dials area. The area is bounded by High Holborn to the north, Kingsway to the east, the Strand to the south and Charing Cross Road to the west. Covent Garden Piazza is located in the geographical centre of the area and was the site of a flower, fruit and vegetable market from the 1500s until 1974, when the wholesale market relocated to New Covent Garden Market in Nine Elms. Nearby areas include Soho, St James's, Bloomsbury, and Holborn.

Piccadilly Circus, London (2009)

2009-12-14T14:13:00.003+08:00

Piccadilly Circus is a famous road junction and public space of London's West End in the City of Westminster, built in 1819 to connect Regent Street with the major shopping street of Piccadilly. The Circus is close to major shopping and entertainment areas in a central location at the heart of the West End. Its status as a major traffic intersection has made Piccadilly Circus a busy meeting point and a tourist attraction in its own right. The Circus is particularly known for its video display and neon signs mounted on the corner building on the northern side, as well as the Shaftesbury memorial fountain and statue of an archer popularly known as Eros (sometimes called The Angel of Christian Charity, but intended to be Anteros). It is surrounded by several noted buildings, including the London Pavilion and Criterion Theatre. Directly underneath the plaza is Piccadilly Circus London Underground station.

Trafalgar Square, London (2009)

2009-12-14T14:06:00.004+08:00

Trafalgar Square is a square in central London, England. With its position in the heart of London, it is a tourist attraction; its trademark is Nelson's Column Nelson's Column which stands in the centre and the four lion statues that guard the column. Statues and sculptures are on display in the square, including a fourth plinth displaying changing pieces of contemporary art, and it is a site of political demonstration. The name commemorates the Battle of Trafalgar (1805), a British naval victory of the Napoleonic Wars.

Buckingham Palace, London (2009)

2009-12-14T13:42:00.004+08:00

Buckingham Palace is the official London residence of the British monarch. Located in the City of Westminster, the palace is a setting for state occasions and royal hospitality. It has been a rallying point for the British people at times of national rejoicing and crisis. Originally known as Buckingham House, the building which forms the core of today's palace was a large townhouse built for the Duke of Buckingham in 1703 on a site which had been in private ownership for at least 150 years. It was subsequently acquired by George III in 1761 as a private residence for Queen Charlotte, and known as "The Queen's House". During the 19th century it was enlarged, principally by architects John Nash and Edward Blore, forming three wings around a central courtyard. Buckingham Palace finally became the official royal palace of the British monarch on the accession of Queen Victoria in 1837.

Parliament House, London (2009)

2009-12-14T13:27:00.006+08:00

Parliament is open to all members of the UK public and overseas visitors. You can attend debates and watch committee hearings, tour the buildings or climb the famous Clock Tower and see Big Ben. To ensure that Parliament remains accessible to the public, it have implemented some simple security guidelines. Please take note of them before and during your visit.
Searches, similar to those used in airports, will be conducted on entry. Mobile phones must be turned off. Cameras cannot be used, except in Westminster Hall.

Big Ben, London (2009)

2009-12-14T13:18:00.004+08:00

Big Ben, London. Famous around the world for keeping impeccable time, the Big Ben Clock Tower was fully operational on September 7th, 1859. The Big Ben Clock is used to ring in the London New Year and is a rallying point for the New Year's celebration of the entire country. The name Big Ben actually refers to the bell housed within the tower. The bell itself weighs almost 14 tons, and the four clock faces of the Big Ben in London are each 23 feet in diameter.

London Eye, London (2009)

2009-12-13T20:09:00.005+08:00

At 135m, The Merlin Entertainments London Eye is the world’s largest cantilevered observation wheel. It was conceived and designed by Marks Barfield Architects and was launched in 2000. It has already won over 75 awards for national and international tourism, outstanding architectural quality and engineering achievement and has now welcomed over 30 million visitors. The spindle holds the wheel structure and the hub rotates it around the spindle. At 23 meters tall, the spindle is around the size of a church spire and, together with the hub, weighs in at 330 tonnes: over 20 times heavier than Big Ben.

St Katherine's Docks, London (2009)

2009-12-13T19:45:00.006+08:00

St Katherine's Docks are built on a site with over 1000 years of dramatic history. The roots of the buildings on today's site can be traced back to the 10th Century when King Edgar gave 13 acres of land to 13 Knights, with the right to use the land for trade. There is evidence of there having been a dock at St Katharine's since 1125 and throughout the ages it has housed a Hospital and Monastery. The first use of the name St Katharine Docks has been traced back to Elizabethan times, when the area around the hospital was thriving with busy wharves. By the end of the 18th Century, St. Katharine's was a prosperous settlement with its own court, school and alms houses along with the hospital the area housed around 3000 people.

Tower Bridge, London (2009)

2009-12-13T19:39:00.005+08:00

Tower Bridge, London. It was completed in 1894, Tower Bridge was instantly hailed as a London icon and one of the great engineering marvels of its age. Come explore its history, uncover its secrets and to enjoy stunning views from its high-level walkways, situated 42 metres above the River Thames. The Walkways offer fantastic views of many of London's most famous sights. The Victorian Engine Rooms house the original steam engines, awesome machines whose immense power once raised the bascules of the bridge.

Alor Gajah, Malacca

2009-11-19T07:19:00.007+08:00

Alor Gajah, Malacca is a town and district in Malacca, Malaysia. Alor Gajah is also a parliamentary constituency of Melaka. It borders Tampin, Negeri Sembilan to the north. This town has a railway station at Pulau Subang about 10 kilometres from the town area. Majlis Perbandaran Alor Gajah (MPAG) is the local municipal council in charge of this town. Alor Gajah is 699.3 km2, which is equivalent to 66,302 hectares. It consists of 31 mukim (sub-districts).

Alor Gajah yang terkenal dengan pahlawan Naning iaitu Dato' Dol Said yang menentang British di dalam Perang Naning pada tahun 1832 adalah dari sebuah kawasan hutan yang dipercayai menjadi laluan gajah-gajah liar, kini Alor Gajah menjadi sebuah daerah yang sedang pesat membangun. Daerah Alor Gajah yang mengandungi tiga (3) buah bandar dan 16 buah pekan-pekan kecil. Keluasan daerah Alor Gajah adalah seluas 66,302 hektar yang merangkumi 31 buah mukim. Kini daerah Alor Gajah mempunyai bilangan penduduk seramai 131,870 orang mengikut bancian penduduk pada tahun 2000. Pekan Alor Gajah terletak 24km dari bandar Melaka dan kini merupakan salah satu pintu masuk utama ke negeri Melaka melalui Lebuhraya Utara-Selatan.

What used to be Distric Officer's residence is now a Public Library

My father, Dato' Haji Amir Ishak Mohd Noordin used to be the 'Assistant District Officer' and later the District Officer of the district

Everyone lived here except Ina Debab (the youngest)

Much of the compound have been taken back - now smaller area

Haadyai, Thailand

2009-10-26T12:57:00.004+08:00

Sungai Golok, Thailand

2009-10-05T13:18:00.005+08:00

Sungai Kolok (สุไหงโกลก) is a border town in Narathiwat, Thailand, just north of the Malaysian border. The town on the Malaysian side of the border is Rantau Panjang which is in the state of Kelantan. Sungai Kolok is popular among Malaysians for its shopping and infamous entertainment delights. Tourism however has taken a knocking since 2005 as several bombs, blamed on southern Thai Muslim separatists, have rocked the town. Sungai Kolok is the railhead on the east coast branch of the State Railways of Thailand's southern line. There are two departures daily to Bangkok, at 11:30 (rapid) and 14:20 (express), both stopping at Yala, Hat Yai, Surat Thani and many other towns en route.

Rantau Panjang, Kelantan

2009-10-05T13:07:00.005+08:00

Rantau Panjang is a town in Kelantan, Malaysia. It is the major border crossing between Malaysia and Thailand for the East Coast of Malaysia. The town on the Thai side across the Golok River which forms the boundary between the two countries is Sungai Kolok. The town has a duty-free shopping area where you can find electronic goods, cigarettes and clothes. Rantau Panjang is about 40km from Kota Bharu, the state capital of Kelantan. The road between Kota Baru and Rantau Panjang goes via Pasir Mas. Rantau Panjang and Sungai Kolok are linked by the short "Harmony Bridge" over the Golok River.

Tak Bai, Thailand

2009-10-05T12:53:00.007+08:00

Tak Bai (Thai: ตากใบ) is a border town on Malaysia-Thailand Border, the capital of Tak Bai district, Narathiwat province. Visitors can visit Malaysia by Pengkalan Kubur pass, Kelantan state. Administratively it is a town (thesaban mueang), and covers 9.14 km² of the subdistrict (tambon) Che He. As of 2007 it has a population of 17,317. It is the location of the Tak Bai Incident, in which on October 25, 2004 at least 85 demonstrators died. The town was created as a sanitary district (sukhaphiban) in 1956. Like all sanitary districts, it was upgraded to a subdistrict municipality (thesaban tambon) in May 1999. On January 31 2008 it was upgraded to a town (thesaban mueang).

Pengkalan Kubor, Kelantan

2009-10-05T12:42:00.006+08:00

Right on the Thai border, Pengkalan Kubor is the immigration check point for this little used back route to Thailand. During the day, a large car ferry (60 sen for pedestrians) crosses the river over to busy Tak Bai in Thailand (If you have the guts, you do not need passport to cross over and come back). It's a tax-free zone, so the shopping is good if you know how to bargain - electronic goods, houseware items, and clothes are popular items. The road from Kota Bharu passes through some of the most traditional villages in Kelantan.

Ubudiah Mosque, Kuala Kangsar, Malaysia (2009)

2009-09-23T11:11:00.006+08:00

Ubudiah Mosque (Masjid Ubudiah) is Perak's royal mosque, and is located in the royal town of Kuala Kangsar, Malaysia. It is often regarded as Malaysia's most beautiful mosque. The Ubudiah Mosque stands proudly and majestically with its golden dome and minarets creating a spellbinding sight, from near and afar. The mosque was designed by Arthur Benison Hubback, a government architect who is notably credited for the design of the Ipoh railway station and the Kuala Lumpur railway station. Built in 1917 during the reign of the 28th Sultan of Perak, Sultan Idris Murshidul'adzam Shah 1, the Masjid Ubudiah is located beside the Royal Mausoleum on Bukit Chandan. It was commissioned on the orders of the Sultan, who vowed that he would build a mosque of great beauty as thanksgiving for recovery from an illness which plagued him in those early days.