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Life in Singapore

BeerOut! Oct 09 by The Digital Movement

BeerOut! Oct 09 by The Digital Movement

BeerOut! Oct 09 by The Digital Movement

Last evening (29th Oct 09), I went to an event organized by The Digital Movement (TDM) called “BeerOut!”, which was held at Loof (roof top bar). This is only the second time BeerOut! is running and it’s actually a monthly casual gathering for the TDM community where interested attendees can engage in talks about digital and technology.

BeerOut! Oct 09 by The Digital Movement

For those who are not familar with TDM, please refer to following excerpt from TDM’s website :-

The Digital Movement (TDM) is a dynamic, global community of digital professionals and enthusiast. Founded in 2006 by a group of passionate young people, TDM’s vision is to bring thought leadership in the digital space and is the catalyst that enables the community to learn and grow from each other.

BeerOut! Oct 09 by The Digital Movement

It’s my first time attending this event so pretty much everyone I met initially is new. But later in the event, I did managed to see familiar faces whom I met in other networking events too!. BeerOut! can be also considered as a networking event where you BYOB (Buy Your Own Beer), chill out and meet folks from the digital community.

I had an awesome time at the event and was also pretty engaged in a number of interesting and constructive conversation. I hope the rest of the attendees enjoyed it as well! Look how happy we are with the ice-cold beer in our hands. šŸ˜›

BeerOut! Oct 09 by The Digital Movement

View from Loof where you admire the nice scenery. Oh, by the way, actually there was a lot more people attending BeerOut! Oct 09 but at the earlier stage, a lot of us was concentrating on networking with other attendees so there was no photo taking. Also, some of the attendees left early for other venues or to head back home. Anyway, if you are interested, you may want to register at TDM to be a member (free at the moment) and get email updates for the next BeerOut! session. See you then!

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Events Life in Singapore

Web Wednesday Singapore 20.0

Web Wednesday Singapore 20.0

Web Wednesday Singapore 20.0

Once again, I attended Web Wednesday Singapore 20.0 last evening (Wed, 28th Oct 09), which was held again at Home Club, the same venue as the previous Web Wednesday Singapore 19.0 (18.0 too!). Today’s speaker is from the local internet scene – Clemen Chiang, ā€˜Chief Evangelist’ and one of the founders of Cozycot.com, the #1 Women’s Site in Singapore awarded by Hitwise for 3 straight years in 2006, 2007 and 2008.

CozyCot.com features beauty, fashion, gourmet, mom, wedding, reviews and forums. It attracts over 17,000 forum threads, with over 1.6 million postings to date and more than 500,000 visitors per month.

Web Wednesday Singapore 20.0

Clemen Chiang shared with us “The 5 Critical Success Factors for a Women’s Site”.

#1. Secret Agent Double O
#2. Scaling The Cloud
#3. Socialize Networking
#4. Sampling Samples
#5. The Holy Grail

Apologize for the dark photos. šŸ˜›

Web Wednesday Singapore 20.0

#2. Scaling The Cloud – Clemen shared with the audience that Cozycot.com is using Amazon’s cloud solution. He also mentioned that there were 2 Amazon folks who flew to Singapore to attend this event. I didn’t managed to catch-up with them. šŸ™

Web Wednesday Singapore 20.0

Attentive audience listening to the presentation. At some point of the presentation, Clemen also shared with us that we could get a free sample of a packaged beauty product from Cozycot.com by just sharing with our name cards with his team of ladies after the presentation. I forgot to do so. šŸ™

Also, during this session, I also didn’t take as much photos as I was actively engaged in different conversation with other new and regular attendees. Good networking session!

I understand that the last Web Wednesday Singapore for the year will be on Wednesday 25th of November from 6:30-8:30pm – Craig Snyder from Akamai will be previewing Akamai’s ā€˜State of the Internet’ report. If anyone is interested, please log the date into your calendar! Or if you want, you can contact me and we’ll attend together. See you folks!

Categories
Life in Singapore

Jurong Birk Park Singapore

Jurong Birk Park Singapore

Jurong Birk Park Singapore

Woohoo! Here I am with free tickets to the Jurong Birk Park (č£•å»Šé£žē¦½å…¬å›­). Pretty excited as I haven’t been here in ages and it’s nice to be able to explore it again. With around 8000 birds from 600 species, Jurong Birk Park had established itself as one of the world’s best in conservation and display of birds in the natural setting. For more reading on information and pricing, you may want to visit Jurong Birk Park website. ^_^

Jurong Birk Park Singapore

Even though we had free tickets, we were still given the above discount vouchers to be used some of the participating outlets on the same day of visit. Off to explore then!

Jurong Birk Park Singapore

Shoebill (Balaeniceps rex).

Jurong Birk Park Singapore

Black Crowned Crane (Balearica pavonina). Think it’s staring at me!

Jurong Birk Park Singapore

Saddle-Billed Stork (Ephippiorhynchus senegalensis).

Jurong Birk Park Singapore

One of the many exhibits – African Wetlands that was inspired by St. Lucia Wetlands, South Africa. Get transported into a world of African birds amidst a body of water and three native-style pavilions outlined with tall palms and green ferns. The Shoebill, Black Crowned Crane, Saddle-Billed Stork are some of the many unique birds that you can see here.

Jurong Birk Park Singapore

You can also take the fully air-conditioned Panorail Ride that travels in a loop to 3 stations (Main station, Lory Station and Waterfall station) if you don’t want to cover Jurong Bird Park by foot. A single trip on the Panorail will cost S$5.00 for an adult ticket, and S$2.50 for each child. The above shows Lory Station.

Jurong Birk Park Singapore

At 3,000 sq.m and with 1,000 free-flying lories, the Lory Loft is the Bird Park’s fourth walk-in flight aviary and the world’s largest Lory Flight Aviary!

Jurong Birk Park Singapore

Upon stepping into Lory Loft, the pleasantly strong aroma of Dimbulah Coffee will greet you. I had a Ice Mocha here at S$4.90 (after using the S$1 discount voucher).

Jurong Birk Park Singapore

Walk past Dimbulah Coffee, visitors will have the opportunity to feed the birds by hand at the 9-storey high two-tiered central feeding tower.

Jurong Birk Park Singapore

Colourful, noisy and exceptionally bold—Lories and Lorikeets are great fun to watch.

Jurong Birk Park Singapore

Walking on the suspended bridges, with the rich red, yellow, green and blue feathered Lories flying around. Nice experience!

Jurong Birk Park Singapore

Bird Discovery Centre – where you can learn about interesting avian facts.

Jurong Birk Park Singapore

The Riverine is a simulated freshwater river habitat featuring various species of waterfowl, fishes and turtles. It gives visitors an intimate underwater view of more than 20 duck species, through an 11 metre wide glass-viewing gallery.

Jurong Birk Park Singapore

Terrace Kiosk – You can also make use of the discount voucher here. They sell Vegetarian Nasi Briyani and Singapore Hainainese Chicken Rice too! šŸ™‚

Jurong Birk Park Singapore

Ben & Jerry’s Ice Cream for the hot day!

Jurong Birk Park Singapore

Near the entrance/exit, you can have up-close photos of you taken together with parrots too!

Jurong Birk Park Singapore

Signs detailing the attractions and exhibit are abundant all around Jurong Birk Park.

Jurong Birk Park Singapore

Penguin Expedition – Occupying 1,630 square metres, Penguin Expedition is home to endearing penguins. The five species on exhibit are the Humboldt, the Rockhopper, the Macaroni, the Fairy and the majestic King Penguin.

Jurong Birk Park Singapore

Made ourselves comfortable at the Pools Amphitheatre at around 3.45pm to catch the 4pm Kings of the Skies (Birds of Prey Show). Please do take note of the show timings if you are coming to Jurong Bird Park. Oh yes, the feeding times as well.

Jurong Birk Park Singapore

The emcee handling a Bald Eagle at the Kings of the Skies (Birds of Prey Show) show!

Jurong Birk Park Singapore

An invited audience holding an Owl. Was concentrating on taking photos so didn’t catch the owl name. šŸ˜›

Jurong Birk Park Singapore

Bongo Burgers – offering burgers and other western delicacies.

Jurong Birk Park Singapore

Scarlet Ibis (Eudocimus ruber).

Jurong Birk Park Singapore

Silver Gull (Chroicocephalus novaehollandiae).

Jurong Birk Park Singapore

Victoria Crowned Pigeon (Goura victoria).

Jurong Birk Park Singapore

Bar-pouched Wreathed Hornbill (Rhyticeros undulatus).

Jurong Birk Park Singapore

African Fish Eagle (Haliaeetus vocifer).

Jurong Birk Park Singapore

White-bellied Sea-eagle (Haliaeetus leucogaster).

Jurong Birk Park Singapore

Black Kite (Milvus migrans).

Jurong Birk Park Singapore

Bald Eagle (Haliaeetus leucocephalus).

Jurong Birk Park Singapore

Ostrich (Struthio camelus) pair – a female and a male.

Jurong Birk Park Singapore

Flamingo.

Jurong Birk Park Singapore

A Pelican at the Pelican Cove.

Jurong Birk Park Singapore

A Swan at Swan Lake.

Jurong Birk Park Singapore

American Flamingo.

Jurong Birk Park Singapore

Blue and gold Macaw.


Penguin Feeding at Jurong Bird Park Singapore


King of the Skies (Birds of Prey Show) at Jurong Bird Park Singapore

Well, I hope you enjoyed this series although there was many more exhibits/attractions and unique birds that was not featured here. If you are interested to visit, you may want to head off to Jurong Birk Park website for more reading and planning. Enjoy!

Photos on this blog post are taken on Panasonic DMC-LX3K 10.1MP Digital Camera and Canon EOS 400D Camera (aka Digital Rebel XTi).

Categories
Life in Singapore

The Arena at Clarke Quay

The Arena at Clarke Quay

The Arena at Clarke Quay

Today, I am blogging about something different as all the while I was covering mostly all my day events. As Singapore was ranked second for its nightlife and dining by the Global Country Brand Index (2006), I thought it will be good for me to cover a night spot which I have patronized a couple of times recently – The Arena (beside Whopper Bar Singapore) which is located at the prime entertainment hub of Clarke Quay (Address: 3B River Valley Road #01-08 Clarke Quay Singapore 179021).

The Arena at Clarke Quay

With a huge 10,000 sq. ft area and S$3 million renovation bill, the decor is modern, classy and luxurious. Ever since its opening in 2007, The Arena has established itself into a popular R&B / Hip hop live music destination for a crowd of all ages in Singapore. The place was still empty when we reach early around 10pm but most of the good tables were already reserved. Photo above shows the entrance and exit doors.

The Arena at Clarke Quay

The party-goers will start arriving around 11pm and in no time, the place will be packed! In front of us, there was a group of ladies celebrating Hen’s Night for their bride-to-be friend. Also, they played a few games with the other party-goers, including us as well. šŸ˜›

The Arena at Clarke Quay

The Arena’s house band that comprises of the multiple talented African-Americans will entertain you with the popular R&B / Hip Hop hits from the likes of Black Eyed Peas, Beyonce and Shakira.

The Arena at Clarke Quay

Bar counter at The Arena – classy chandeliers and meretriciously-detailed illuminated walls. Nice!

The Arena at Clarke Quay

We sat near the bar counter, away from the stage and dance floor area, as it was quieter so that we could still talk. For those who like to catch the best action, do camp near the stage area! Beware as it’s going to be loud but still it has it’s perks! šŸ˜›

The Arena at Clarke Quay

Spotted a disco ball near where we were seated. Hmmm, let me check whether I brought along my laser light? ^_^

The Arena at Clarke Quay

Our booze for the night – 2 bottles of Chivas Regal (comes with 3 mixers free for each bottles).

The Arena at Clarke Quay

Some snacks to go with the drinks – chicken wings and cheese fries. Oh yes, no smoking in the club! You have to go out of the club to get burn your ciggies.

The Arena at Clarke Quay

Also, in The Arena, there will be numerous friendly ladies going round to sell tequila shots. If you need extra boost of alcohol, do call out for them and they will be most happy to serve you. Finally leaving you with some videos that I took in The Arena. šŸ™‚


Video of The Arena at Clarke Quay Singapore.


Live Band (singing Beyonce’s Halo) at The Arena at Clarke Quay Singapore.

Photos on this blog post are taken on Panasonic DMC-LX3K 10.1MP Digital Camera.

Categories
Life in Singapore

Singapore Flyer

Singapore Flyer

Singapore Flyer

Gotten an invitation to experience Singapore Flyer (ę–°åŠ å”ę‘©å¤©č§‚ę™Æč½®) – the world’s largest observation wheel (for now). It is 42 stories high, with a total height of 165 m (541 ft), and is taller than London Eye. Singapore Flyer is located at Marina Centre and offers breathtaking panoramic view of Singapore‘s Marina Bay and beyond. Here I am, standing at the platform awaiting to board the capsule.

Singapore Flyer

Looking down from the capsule. For info, the wheel will rotate at clockwise direction when viewed from Marina Centre.

Singapore Flyer

On the Singapore Flyer, you can also see the numerous hotels and shopping malls around Marina Bay area – Ritz Carltion Singapore, Pan Pacific Singapore, Suntec City Mall, Millenia Tower, etc.

Singapore Flyer

Singapore Flyer over looking “The Float at Marina Bay” and “Esplanade“.

Singapore Flyer

The illumination outside of the Singapore Flyer will change different colours!

Singapore Flyer

After alighting the capsule, you will pass by a souvenir shop where you can get stuffs for your loved ones. šŸ™‚

Singapore Flyer

Spotted a small model of Singapore Flyer in the souvenir shop too!

Singapore Flyer

Wahahaaha, I returned the next day to take a flight at Singapore Flyer again – this time during the day time. Oh yes, there is a number of impressive selection of food & beverage outlets at Singapore Flyer too!

Singapore Flyer

After showing the tickets, you will have to go through security checks. Very much like taking a flight? šŸ˜›

Singapore Flyer

Prior to taking the capsule, I stopped by the washroom as the flight will take around 30mins. Outside of the washroom, there is a tenant called “PictureWorks” where your photos can be taken and then superimposed onto the various available background of Singapore Flyer.

Singapore Flyer

Joining in the queue and waiting to board the capsule at the platform. There are a total of 28 air-conditioned capsules, each one the size of a bus and able to take on up to 28 passengers. So it will not be a long wait.

Singapore Flyer

If you are celebrating any special occasion, you might want to look at the different packages offered by Singapore Flyer at their webby – http://www.singaporeflyer.com/. You can wine, dine and admire fantastic panoramic views of Marina Bay at the same time! Looks really happening!

Singapore Flyer

Here you can see the F1 Track (Singapore Grand Prix), Marina Barrage, Marina Bay Golf Course (extreme left) and the upcoming Gardens By the Bay (extreme right).

Singapore Flyer

F1 Pitstop (Singapore Grand Prix) and Marina Bay Golf Course. The area that is under development and also in-front of the Marina Bay Golf Course is The Garden at Marina East (See Gardens By the Bay) .

Singapore Flyer

Looking down from the capsule. This time during day time. šŸ˜›

Singapore Flyer

Day view of Ritz Carltion Singapore, Pan Pacific Singapore, Suntec City Mall, Millenia Tower, etc.

Singapore Flyer

Upcoming integrated resort which is expected to open in 2010 – Marina Bay Sands. Looking forward to it!

Singapore Flyer

Day view of “The Float at Marina Bay” and “Esplanade“. Now I can see clearly that the platform stage is now used as a football field. šŸ˜›

Singapore Flyer

I noted there are precautions (netting) taken in case of any accidents occurring. Anyway, the capsules are moving at slow speeds and it can be easily boarded or alighted.

Singapore Flyer

Finally, leaving you with a shot of Singapore Flyer against the clear blue sky. I had a good time experiencing both day and night rides at Singapore Flyer – each have it’s own beautiful as well as captivating points and it’s a matter of individual preferences to choose which to experience. Please do visit http://www.singaporeflyer.com/ for more information and packages available. Have fun!

Photos on this blog post are taken on Panasonic DMC-LX3K 10.1MP Digital Camera.

Categories
Life in Singapore

Exploring Pulau Ubin Singapore

Exploring Pulau Ubin Singapore

Exploring Pulau Ubin Singapore

It’s been a while since I last went to Pulau Ubin to cycle so I decided to head off and explore on a Sunday morning. As it was a Sunday, the parking lots around Changi Point Ferry Terminal (near Changi Village Hawker Centre) was free-of-charge so it took a while for me to get a parking lot as all the lots were taken up. To get to Pulau Ubin, you need to take a bum-boat from Changi Point Ferry Terminal.

Exploring Pulau Ubin Singapore

Once you reach Changi Point Ferry Terminal, go down the stairs and join the queue for Pulau Ubin (by referring to the signboards). Be sure to join the correct queue for Pulau Ubin as the terminal also serves those going to Pengerang, Johor. The bum-boats will only leave when there have 12 passengers and each trip cost S$2.50/person. You can also bring your own bicycle on-board for another S$2 extra.

Exploring Pulau Ubin Singapore

On the bum-boat leaving Changi Point Ferry Terminal for Pulau Ubin. Whenever I go for an outdoor trip, I will bring along a backpack. What I had in my backpack – 1.5L of mineral water (you can still buy in Palau Ubin), plastic bags (to protect my electronics if it rains), disposable rain coat, sun screen, insect repellant, biscuits/snacks and camera. What I was wearing – T-shirt, bermuda and covered shoes. It going to be hot so make sure you have a breathable T-shirt.

Exploring Pulau Ubin Singapore

After 10mins of bum-boat ride, I reached the Ubin Jetty. Walking along the walkway into Pulau Ubin.

Exploring Pulau Ubin Singapore

A “Welcome To Pulau Ubin” at the end of Ubin Jetty walkway. Oh yes, admission to the island is free.

Exploring Pulau Ubin Singapore

I went straight to the NParks Information Kiosk, where you can pick up pamphlets and maps for Pulau Ubin and Chek Jawa Wetlands. You can also speak to the NParks officers to get some tips on how to spend your day at Pulau Ubin. I did ask the NParks officers about the tide – not for swimming but more related to visiting Chek Jawa. šŸ™‚

Exploring Pulau Ubin Singapore

If you leave Ubin Jetty and turn left (westwards), you will see Pak Ali’s Malay Stall – which I have decided to take my breakfast here.

Exploring Pulau Ubin Singapore

Lontong at Pak Ali’s Malay Stall S$2.80 – I heard it was the best in Singapore and only available on Sunday!

Exploring Pulau Ubin Singapore

You can rent a bicycle from the numerous bicycle rental kiosks between the jetty and the village center. Whole day rental prices varies from S$2 (older models) to S$20 (newer models with more features such as disc brakes, front suspension, back suspension, etc). The normal ones are usually between S$2 to S$5 but I went for a slightly newer model (as above) for S$8. Be sure to ask for bicycle locks (S$2 refundable deposit) and shop owner’s contact number (to get help if any breakdown happens).

Exploring Pulau Ubin Singapore

Stop by Pekan Quarry (along Jalan Batu Ubin) to admire the scenery. No swimming please. šŸ˜›

Exploring Pulau Ubin Singapore

Some bamboo growth.

Exploring Pulau Ubin Singapore

Keep left when cycling on any paved road as there are vehicles using the same road as well! This is along Jalan Noordin.

Exploring Pulau Ubin Singapore

On the paved cycling route, there are huts available for taking shelter as well as breather. Usually there are location maps beside the huts as well.

Exploring Pulau Ubin Singapore

National Police Cadet Corps Campsite. Notice the obstacle course on the right?

Exploring Pulau Ubin Singapore

Coastal area at the end of Jalan Noordin. From the map, this area was also known as “Noordin Campsite”.

Exploring Pulau Ubin Singapore

There are various public toilets around Pulau Ubin but please note that the water supplied are not safe for drinking.

Exploring Pulau Ubin Singapore

A villager’s home on Pulau Ubin.

Exploring Pulau Ubin Singapore

Most of the public toilets here in Pulau Ubin are powered by Solar energy. You can see the solar panels on top of the building.

Exploring Pulau Ubin Singapore

Uncle relaxing in the shade while awaiting for his catch. This is at Mamam Campsite.

Exploring Pulau Ubin Singapore

On the other side, 2 person are doing some cooking and another 2 curious on-lookers glancing at it. Maybe the aroma smells fabulous! Wahahaha!

Exploring Pulau Ubin Singapore

Also I noticed some structure out in the sea, might be a Kelong!

Exploring Pulau Ubin Singapore

From Mamam Campsite, I made my way to Chek Jawa (Punai Hut). From Beberek Hut onwards, all are gravel roads.

Exploring Pulau Ubin Singapore

Halfway up to Chek Jawa Wetlands (Punai Hut), I took a rest in the shade. Some other folks are also taking a breather and admiring the scene too.

Exploring Pulau Ubin Singapore

This is the scene which we are admiring while resting – Balai Quarry.

Exploring Pulau Ubin Singapore

Sometimes when the slope is too steep, cyclists (including myself) will get off the bicycle and push it instead. It is so much easier this way!

Exploring Pulau Ubin Singapore

Arrived at Punai Hut, this is where you have to park and lock your bicycles. The rest of the journey to Chek Jawa Wetlands will have to be on foot.

Exploring Pulau Ubin Singapore

Information Kiosk at Chek Jawa. Vending machine for cold drinks is available here.

Exploring Pulau Ubin Singapore

Decided to explore Coastal Boardwalk first. Signboard for No Fishing, No Swimming, No Running, No Cycling.

Exploring Pulau Ubin Singapore

Coastal Boardwalk stretches around 600 meters along the coastline of Chek Jawa and allows you to view various lifeforms or habitats without getting wet.

Exploring Pulau Ubin Singapore

At various parts of the Coastal Boardwalk, there are steel grilles on the floor instead of the usual solid wooden platforms so as to allow you to see through the opening into the seabed. There is more to see during a low tide so please do check for a low tide (believe <0.5m is preferred) before your visit. During my visit, it was all high-tide as I only checked it at NParks Information Kiosk when I reach Pulau Ubin. šŸ™

Exploring Pulau Ubin Singapore

Along the Coastal Boardwalk, there are various information signboard as such for visitors to read and learn. Coral Rubble is what you can see if the tide is low.

Exploring Pulau Ubin Singapore

Continuing on will be the 500 meters Mangrove Boardwalk.

Exploring Pulau Ubin Singapore

Typical mangroves found in Pulau Ubin and are an important part of the ecosystem.

Exploring Pulau Ubin Singapore

Numerous mud moulds made by mud lobster can be seen along the boardwalk. Can you spot the crab in the photo?

Exploring Pulau Ubin Singapore

21-metre high Jejawi Observation Tower. Do spend some time to climb up as it offer fantastic views!

Exploring Pulau Ubin Singapore

On the top of Jejawi Tower – perfect spot for bird watching or just admiring the panoramic view of Chek Jawa.

Exploring Pulau Ubin Singapore

House No 1 – Chek Jawa Visitor Centre. This was built in 1930s by the then Chief Surveyor, Langdon Williams as a holiday retreat.

Exploring Pulau Ubin Singapore

Going through House No 1 and you will come to a viewing jetty which stretches into the sea.

Exploring Pulau Ubin Singapore

At the end of the Viewing Jetty. On the far top-right is Pulau Sekudu.

Exploring Pulau Ubin Singapore

Had a peek behind the signboard and found a solar panel. Believe that it’s used to power the small light beacon at night.

Exploring Pulau Ubin Singapore

Spotted a large spider on the floor. Looks menacing man!

Exploring Pulau Ubin Singapore

Almost at the end of my trip already, so I took a rest at Ubin First Stop Restaurant and ordered a cold 100plus drink. I was slowly sipping the drink and watching the people go by. Directly opposite is the Wayang Stage – used to be a classroom for kids but now more commonly used for Chinese opera performances during Chinese Seventh Lunar Month (Hungry Ghost Festival).

Exploring Pulau Ubin Singapore

On the right side of where I was seated, there are some bicycle rental shops as well as provision shops.

Exploring Pulau Ubin Singapore

Ubin First Stop Restaurant – There was quite a crowd during then and most are digging into seafood while having beer/wine/champagne. Must be really enjoyable!

Exploring Pulau Ubin Singapore

My late lunch at Ubin First Stop Restaurant – Seafood Hor Fun S$4.

Exploring Pulau Ubin Singapore

Finished my lunch, then I returned the bicycle and got back my deposit of S$2 for the lock. Walk back to Ubin Jetty and waited for more passengers to make up 12 persons.

Exploring Pulau Ubin Singapore

The interior of the bum-boat that I took back to Changi Point Ferry Terminal. Did you see the regular plastic chair they using? Wahahaha! Anyway, I purposely took my time and not cover the whole of Ubin during this trip as I very much wanted to come back again. I really had a fun time!

Exploring Pulau Ubin Singapore

After I reached Changi Point Ferry Terminal, went to Changi Village Hawker Centre to buy some afternoon snacks home. Going for something light so settled for Chwee Kueh.

Exploring Pulau Ubin Singapore

Auntie preparing my order of Chwee Kueh (6pcs) with lots of diced preserved radish at S$1.50. Nice!

Photos on this blog post are taken on Panasonic DMC-LX3K 10.1MP Digital Camera.

Categories
Life in Singapore

ION Orchard Walkabout

ION Orchard Walkabout

ION Orchard Walkabout

Not long ago, I took a walk at ION Orchard, a new-concept styled shopping mall that opened in the prime shopping district of Singapore, Orchard Road. First stop to satisfy my salivating mouth is Gindaco Tsukiji (ēÆ‰åœ°éŠ€ē« é­šē‡’), the renowned Takoyaki from Tokyo, Japan. Gindaco Tsukiji is located at basement 4 and there seems to have an indefinite queue due to the popularity.

ION Orchard Walkabout

After 10mins of waiting, I got my Takoyaki (6 pcs) at S$4.80 and quickly hurried off to a corner to devour it! šŸ˜›

ION Orchard Walkabout

Walking around the basement area of ION Orchard. Majority of the shops are already opened for business. Believe the official opening launch of ION Orchard is somewhere in Oct 2009.

ION Orchard Walkabout

Nippon-Ya (Japanese Food Boutique) at #B4-13 sells food stuffs imported from Japan, majority are largely sweets (mochi, cookie, cake, chocolate, etc) !

ION Orchard Walkabout

Burger King at ION Orchard – a new concept restaurant brought in by Burger King Corporation themselves. Did not give it a try as I have only recently tried Burger King Whopper Bar.

ION Orchard Walkabout

Are you a donut lover? Cos Dunkin’ Donuts is back in Singapore!

ION Orchard Walkabout

Headed outside of ION Orchard to see the fantastic architecture. It was a hot and humid day but perfect for photo taking! Look at the reflections made by the sun on the glass, does it look like some big diamond? šŸ˜›

ION Orchard Walkabout

Teleport station to ION galaxy? Hehe, nope! This goes down to the Orchard MRT Station and basement of ION Orchard.

ION Orchard Walkabout

ION Orchard – taken from a further distance to capture the canopy.

ION Orchard Walkabout

At the entrance to ION Orchard. Giorgio Armani, one of the numerous notable luxury brand tenants in ION Orchard.

ION Orchard Walkabout

Flagship stores of Cartier and Dior at the entrance facade.

ION Orchard Walkabout

The roof canopy of ION Orchard. Overlooking Singapore Marriott Hotel on the right side.

ION Orchard Walkabout

Taken from Wheelock Place (opposite/across the road).

ION Orchard Walkabout

Since we were already nearby at Isetan Orchard, decided to head off to the basement to grab some coffee at McCafe. But when I got off the escalator, this counter in front of McCafe stole my attention! They are selling German beer and we decided to give it a go. šŸ™‚

ION Orchard Walkabout

I understand that the beer counter was part of the German Fair organized by Isetan Orchard. Decided to go for wheat aleValentins Weißbier (Weissbier) 500ml for S$10. Hmm, seems to me that it was a tad too expensive as I remembered seeing it going for S$7+ in supermarkets.

ION Orchard Walkabout

After the beer and a rest, back to strolling at ION Orchard again. Heading down directly to basement to check out food restaurants for our dinner.

ION Orchard Walkabout

Animated displays at the side of the escalators.

ION Orchard Walkabout

EpiCentre @ ION Orchard – a premium reseller of Apple products. Still drawing the crowds!

ION Orchard Walkabout

Our dinner will be at Aoba Hokkaido Ramen – a top ramen from Asahikawa, Hokkaido. Barriers are setup to facilitate the long queues.

ION Orchard Walkabout

The interior of Aoba Hokkaido Ramen – not too huge with sitting capacity around 30 – 40 persons.

ION Orchard Walkabout

Shio Scallop Ramen S$12.80++.

ION Orchard Walkabout

Pumpkin Croquette S$5.80++.

ION Orchard Walkabout

Shoyu Tontoro Ramen S$16.80++. We also each had a Green Tea at S$1.90++. Total for the meal was S$41.53 (including 7% GST, 10% service charge and after 10% discount using Citibank credit card).

ION Orchard Walkabout

After dinner, next up, will be to take photos of the lighted-up ION Orchard. Taken from Wheelock Place.

ION Orchard Walkabout

ION Orchard taken from Isetan Orchard.

ION Orchard Walkabout

The tall building behind ION Orchard is The Orchard Residences.

ION Orchard Walkabout

Sky is getting darker. Another shot taken from Wheelock Place.

ION Orchard Walkabout

Night view of the front facade of ION Orchard.

ION Orchard Walkabout

Night shot of the canopy at ION Orchard.

ION Orchard Walkabout

All the luxury brands are also lighted up, bringing out their individual style and classiness.

ION Orchard Walkabout

The behind of the egg-like structure that leads down to Orchard MRT and basement of ION Orchard.

ION Orchard Walkabout

Black and white themed Dior.

ION Orchard Walkabout

Louis Vuittion at ION Orchard.

ION Orchard Walkabout

Colurful Prada at ION Orchard. The photos captured here is only a partial representation of what you can explore/shop at ION Orchard as I didn’t finish walking the whole of it. I will be back again! If you are coming to Singapore, please do visit ION Orchard and share with me your experience as well!


Leaving you with the video of ION Orchard night scene.

Photos on this blog post are taken on Panasonic DMC-LX3K 10.1MP Digital Camera.

Categories
Life in Singapore

Burger KingĀ® Whopperā„¢ Bar Singapore

Burger KingĀ® Whopperā„¢ Bar Singapore

Burger KingĀ® Whopperā„¢ Bar Singapore

Burger King recently opened the first Whopper Bar in Singapore on 17 September 2009. The Whopper Bar restaurant is located at Blk 3B, River Valley Road, #01-06, Clarke Quay (beside The Arena Live) and operates daily from 12pm to 3am. Being the first Whopper Bar in Asia Pacific and the third in the world (after Orlando and Munich), I just have to check it out and my schedule allows so on a Thursday evening.

Burger KingĀ® Whopperā„¢ Bar Singapore

Burger King‘s new Whopper Bar offers Whoppers, Double Whoppers and other specialty burgers with 22 different toppings to choose from. Also, the most important point to note is that they do serve beer in the restaurant. With every value meal, you just need to top-up another S$2 for a Tiger Beer or S$3 for a Heineken 330ml.

Burger KingĀ® Whopperā„¢ Bar Singapore

A pretty different approach to the regular fast-food styled Burger King restaurants in Singapore, the Whopper Bar comes decorated as a trendy and contemporary bar-like look and feel. It’s probably a 2 storey restaurant as I do see stairs going up but at that time, the stairway was blocked by some chairs.

Burger KingĀ® Whopperā„¢ Bar Singapore

Waiting at the side to collect my orders. The whole bar is basically covered with flames design, probably promoting and strengthening it’s flame-grilled specialty.

Burger KingĀ® Whopperā„¢ Bar Singapore

A signage beside the collection point.

Burger KingĀ® Whopperā„¢ Bar Singapore

Our orders – 1 Luscious Tendergrill (Chicken) S$6.95 and 1 Value Meal (Double Mushroom Swiss, Large Onion Rings, Heineken 330ml) S$11.95. Total is S$18.90.

Burger KingĀ® Whopperā„¢ Bar Singapore

The Luscious Tendergrill (Chicken) S$6.95.

Burger KingĀ® Whopperā„¢ Bar Singapore

My Double Mushroom Swiss with Heineken 330ml. First time having beer while eating BK burgers. Interesting experience!

Burger KingĀ® Whopperā„¢ Bar Singapore

The Whopper Bar restaurant is also Wi-Fi and iPods enabled. Ambiance is pretty good as well! I will definitely come back again and blog from here in the future! šŸ™‚

Burger KingĀ® Whopperā„¢ Bar Singapore

The view of the ordering counter from where I was seated. The crowd is pretty bare, probably because it’s a weekday evening and also might be due to the fact that not much peeps are aware of this new concept Burger King restaurant that was recently opened in Clarke Quay.

Burger KingĀ® Whopperā„¢ Bar Singapore

While leaving the Whopper Bar after we had our meal, I noticed a flaming BK signage together with phase “Man Discovered Fire for a Reason”.

Burger KingĀ® Whopperā„¢ Bar Singapore

We left Whopper Bar and went to take a walk around Clarke Quay, looking out for places to continue with some drinks. After 10mins of wandering around, we decided against it as we still need to work the next day. So we left after I took a photo of the Riverside Point (from Clarke Quay), one of my favourite food and drinks hunt as well.

Photos on this blog post are taken on Panasonic DMC-LX3K 10.1MP Digital Camera.

Categories
Life in Singapore

Lantern Festival at Chinese Garden

Lantern Festival at Chinese Garden

Lantern Festival at Chinese Garden

We recently celebrated Mid-Autumn Festival (also known as Mooncake Festival) on the 15th day of the eighth month in the Chinese calendar. This year it falls on a Saturaday (3rd October 2009) so we decided to take a stroll at Lantern festival which was held at Chinese Garden. It was already drizzling when we were having our dinner but we still took our chances and made our way to Chinese Garden, hoping that the rain would stop. Nah it didn’t stop and we had to go around with a brolly. Moveover, the car park space was limited but I was lucky enough to get a parking lot after going 2 rounds in the carpark.

Lantern Festival at Chinese Garden

Going to walk over the “Pai Hung Chiao” (White Rainbow Bridge) at the entrance. MyĀ partner was holding the umbrella and sheltering me (or should I say my camera) while I am taking photos. Some folks came without a brolly and had to bear with the light rain.

Lantern Festival at Chinese Garden

Side view shot of the white rainbow bridge (13-Arch Bridge) that we crossed earlier. I like the way the lanterns are reflected in the water.

Lantern Festival at Chinese Garden

A Chinese Tower which greeted us after 5mins of walk. Nope, I didn’t go up. šŸ˜›

Lantern Festival at Chinese Garden

Regardless of the light rain, the children are still having fun playing with their lanterns and sparklers.

Lantern Festival at Chinese Garden

Children’s Day (1st Oct 2009 in Singapore) and Lantern Festival Celebrations – a tempoary stage was setup to entertain the attendees but I didn’t stay long enough to find out what’s going on.

Lantern Festival at Chinese Garden

A view of the lake. Notice the smoke on the right side – those are from the sparklers that the children play with.

Lantern Festival at Chinese Garden

A famous traditional feature of Chinese architecture – Stone Boat structure.

Lantern Festival at Chinese Garden

Yes! The rain finally stopped. It’s a nice and cooling stroll while admiring the different colored lanterns.

Lantern Festival at Chinese Garden

The “Ru Yun Ta” (7-storey pagoda). No, I didn’t go up as well. šŸ˜›

Lantern Festival at Chinese Garden

Folks lighting up candles – seems like it’s a large birthday cake to me. Wahaha!

Lantern Festival at Chinese Garden

Let’s make a wish before we blow out the candles. šŸ˜›

Lantern Festival at Chinese Garden

More of the colorful lanterns around Chinese Garden. We were not able to get a glimpse of the full moon due to the cloudy sky. šŸ™

Lantern Festival at Chinese Garden

Taking a close-up shot of the red lanterns at the White Rainbow Bridge.

Lantern Festival at Chinese Garden

Walking across the White Rainbow Bridge again to get back to carpark. Popular spot for photo taking!

Lantern Festival at Chinese Garden

More people are coming than those that are leaving. I supposed that is because the rain have stopped, more folks and their family members are just starting to came out to play with lanterns. I also think that there was more to see at Chinese Garden during previous year, like “Hello Kitty” lantern exhibition and etc, but still I am glad that I made a visit to Chinese Garden this year as it’s was more then 10 years ago since I last visited! šŸ˜›

Photos on this blog post are taken on Panasonic DMC-LX3K 10.1MP Digital Camera.

Categories
Events Life in Singapore

Web Wednesday Singapore 19.0

Web Wednesday Singapore 19.0

Web Wednesday Singapore 19.0

On 1st Oct (Thurs) 2009, together with Sambit, I attended Web Wednesday Singapore 19.0 at HomeClub. Web Wednesday Singapore is usually held on Wednesday but it was moved to Thursday for this month only as they are expecting a very distinguished guest (Randall Rothenberg) speaking with us in Singapore. Above: Ken Mandel (Chairman of IAB Singapore) giving a introduction. Ken is the vice-president and managing director of Yahoo Southeast Asia.

Web Wednesday Singapore 19.0

Randall Rothenberg is the President and CEO of the Interactive Advertising Bureau (IAB) in the US. He’s speaking on the development of the IAB here in Singapore.

Web Wednesday Singapore 19.0

Quite a turn-out for Web Wednesday Singapore 19.0, which consisted of folks from various web-related industries. This was my view when listening to the presentation. The slides on the screen is showing the IAB Singapore Leadership Council 2009/10.

Web Wednesday Singapore 19.0

Side view from where I was standing, with a Asahi beer (1-for-1 promotion at S$12) in hand. As the presentation was done inside a club (HomeClub), the lightings was dark and also because I didn’t bother to on the flash. Haha! Beyond here, there are still more folks around. Also at the outside of the club (where we usually gathered).

Web Wednesday Singapore 19.0

Folks listening attentively to Randall. Only a small group at the back was forming their own discussions. I vaguely remembered that Andy Tu reminded them to keep the volume down. Perhaps, they are really excited about the development of IAB Singapore. šŸ˜›

Web Wednesday Singapore 19.0

A close-up shot of Randall Rothenberg during the Q&A session. Prior to and also after the talk, I did managed to get to know some folks who also attended Web Wednesday Singapore 19.0 event. It was a good networking session and I will be catching up with them individually soon. If you into web-related areas, you may also want to register yourself to get updates on the next Web Wednesday Singapore event too! Or you can contact me and we’ll attend together.

Web Wednesday Singapore 19.0

After the drinks & networking session at Web Wednesday Singapore 19.0, we took a stroll to 24hr Shah Alam Restaurant at Circular Road (Boat Quay) for our dinner. Sambit had Nasi Brayani Mutton.

Web Wednesday Singapore 19.0

Sambal Mutton – a small side dish that we shared.

Web Wednesday Singapore 19.0

I had Mee Goreng Mutton (with egg). Total paid for the Nasi Brayani Mutton, Mutton Mysore, Mee Goreng Mutton and 2 lime juice was S$16. Hmm, our dinner seems to comprise of all mutton. Wahaha!

I will be looking forward to the next Web Wednesday Singapore event!