The weather was too cold. Therefore, I couldn’t hold the camera properly. The temperature was below 5 °C. The position of the sun is too low. That was the main reason I couldn’t take clearer images because the main source of light was blocked by the buildings.

I took TUBE (Circle/District Line) at 11 in the morning from Bayswater Station to Westminster Station directly without taking any interchange. I was staying in Hyde Park, just few meters away from Bayswater Station. I chose Hyde Park because of the strategic location. I can go to many tourist places without any problem.

You better to come early if you want to find a nice spot for photography because there will be hundreds of thousands of spectators on the streets. If you plan to visit London this New Year, I strongly suggest don’t miss this free entertainment! It is suitable to all age.

The sky was very blue without any cloud.

The Big Ben.

A high school band was marching along the Bridge St.

The seniors.

Auuchh, an old man with baby costume.

An old man was riding a penny-farthing. Penny-farthing (high wheeler) is a type of bicycle with a large front wheel and a small rear wheel. It is one of the earliest bicycles. It was designed on year 1869.

OMG, I hate the clowns!

A future cheerleader?

Westminster Station (TUBE or Underground).

Whitehall Grandstand.

A swan?

Legacy High School from United States.

Old Mini Coopers.

Our goal: Making London a safer city.

Ghostbusters is exist in real life! Ghostbusters is a name of a 1984 American comedy film.

The London Eye viewed from Whitehall. The London Eye is a giant 135-metre tall Ferris wheel located on the banks of the River Thames. It is the tallest Ferris wheel in Europe.

Whitehall.

The guard.

Trafalgar 300-meter away viewed from Whitehall.

PLAN YOUR TRIP

Rate: Free
Date: January 1st
Time: 11.45am to 3pm
Location: Ritz Hotel – Piccadilly – Trafalgar Square – Whitehall – Parliament Square

Nearest TUBE stations
1. Westminster – Circle Line / District Line
2. Piccadilly Circus – Piccadilly Line / Bakerloo Line
3. Charing Cross -Bakerloo Line / Northern Line
4. Green Park – Piccadilly Line / Jubilee Line
5. Embankment – Circle Line / District Line / Bakerloo Line / Northern Line

Oyster Card
Fare: £5.00 (£3.00 refundable deposit and £2.00 worth of credit).
Benefits: Daily price cap, cheaper than cash for single fares, cashless.
Price cap for Zone 1: £7.20 (peak) or £5.60 (off-peak).

View Larger Map

Universal Studios Singapore is located at Resorts World Sentosa on Sentosa Island, Singapore. It is the second Universal Studios Theme Parks opened in Asia after Japan. The park opened to public on March 18, 2010. This place is developed by Genting Group.

This is my first time visited Universal Studios Singapore. This was also the best experience watching real stunts in my life. I wish I can visit this theme park again next year. You could read more about other attractions in Universal Studios Singapore on the next posts.

Beware, you will get wet!

Here you go.

Someone was really takes out the umbrella to defend herself from getting wet.

The heroine has entered the scene to save her buddies.

The big boss is here.

This guy looks like Shaolin Tiger. What do you think?

Full of expressions.

The fire came out from the gun barrel.

The fuel tank is leaking and ready to explode.

The fuel tank is exploding. Kabooom!

So bergaya!

1 scene but full of actions.

Wow, someone was really fly without the support from cable.

Hero and heroine trying to escape from bad guys.

The high speed chase with Jet Ski is definitely awesome.

Don’t shoot her.

Playing Jet Ski at narrow area. So syok!

Another explosion!

Rate (for Universal Studios Singapore)
Adult: S$66 Weekday (RM156) or S$72 Weekend (RM170).
Child: S$48 Weekday (RM113) or S$52 Weekend (RM123).
Website: http://www.rwsentosa.com

Show times (WaterWorld)
12:00pm, 2:00pm and 4:30pm
* Please arrive 15 minutes before scheduled show times.

There is a shopping centre called Whiteleys. Whiteleys was a first department store in London before it converted into a shopping centre. It has been built since 1863. You don’t need to go to Oxford Street to shopping because this shopping centre already provide many things such as cinema, Topshop, HMV, Marks & Spencer, GAP, H&M, French Connection, Accessorize, Muji, La Senza, Zara and many more.

From Paddington, we took Circle/District line (TUBE) to Bayswater tube station. It cost us about £1.80 per person with Oyster Card. Without the Oyster Card the fare will be £4.00 per journey within Zone 1. You will save more with Oyster Card!

We have stayed at Hyde Park Suites for a week. It is located at Inverness Terrace, just a few meters away from Bayswater station. Large duplex apartment room cost us about £770.00 (RM37, 654) for 7 nights. This room is suitable for five adults and ideal for a family vacation. This room has big balcony and mini-kitchen. We cut our expenses by cook our own foods. We bought the frozen foods from Tesco and also Marks & Spencer. The quality of this apartment is below the par from our expectation because the furniture is not well-maintained, poor security system and does not have enough lighting. The bathroom is also very small. I chose this apartment because it is located in the strategic location.

Not far from Hyde Park Suites, there is Malaysia Hall. You can meet many travelers and students from Malaysia gathered here. It has canteen, hall, surau and hostel. You can get Malaysian foods from the canteen. The foods price is a bit higher than local foods.

Bayswater Station (TUBE).

Inverness Terrace.

Tesco Metro at Queensway.

Whiteleys.

Queensway.

Inverness Pl

Free travel during the New Year’s Eve on the Tube, DLR or London Underground, that was cool! This picture was taken before the New Year.

There is no cloud!

The ice skating rink at Muji, Bayswater. It also has bowling alleys.

I was blogging at Hyde Park.

Queensway at night.

Long time I didn’t see long luxury car!

Halal Restaurant is one of the Halal restaurants in London.

I like the sport rims. Dang cool!

I was walking along the Inverness Terrace.

Paddington Station.

PLAN YOUR TRIP

Oyster Card
Fare: £5.00 (£3.00 refundable deposit and £2.00 worth of credit).
Benefits: Daily price cap, cheaper than cash for single fares, cashless.
Price cap for Zone 1: £7.20 (peak) or £5.60 (off-peak).

Heathrow to Paddington with Heathrow Connect
Fare: £7.90 (single fare).
Duration: Estimated about 25 minutes.

Hyde Park Suites
Room type: Large Duplex / Loft Apartment (Bronze).
Rate: £110.00 (or RM540) per night.
Size: Suitable for 5 Adults.
Telephone: +44 (0) 800 756 6600

The long tiring journey from Kuala Lumpur to Abu Dhabi took about 7 hours 20 minutes. The distance between these two cities is about 5,612 kilometers. There is nothing to see through out the window except the dark starry sky. I have spent most of my free time watching movies and playing games using the media player provided inside the cabin.

Once we have arrived at Abu Dhabi International Airport (IATA: AUH, ICAO: OMAA) in United Arab Emirates (UAE), we have a walk inside the terminal mall. Not much to look compared to KLIA. There was nothing we could spend except for window shopping because we didn’t have their currency. We waited in the terminal about an hour to take the next flight to the Heathrow International Airport in London.

The distance between Abu Dhabi to London is about 5,470 kilometers. The flight from Abu Dhabi didn’t fly smoothly to the north. Most probably it was because of the heavy winter wind or turbulence. I am not really sure about this because I haven’t taken the pilot course yet. Maybe in the future I will understand more about this.

After 8 long hours, finally we arrived safely at London Heathrow Airport (IATA: LHR, ICAO: EGLL) in the west metropolitan city of London on the early morning just before the sunrise. Our aircraft have parked at Terminal 4. The immigration in Heathrow was very strict. Many of Asians students especially from India couldn’t pass the border after the tough interviewed by the border officers. Maybe they didn’t meet the minimum requirements to enter the United Kingdom. Or most probably they came there not for vacation but to work in the UK without working visa. So, for those who are planning to work illegally in the UK, please think again. You might stuck in the border and asked to return back to you original country. Your high-risk investment on the flight ticket might be gone without any profits.

From the Heathrow International Airport, we took the Heathrow Connect, the high-speed train system to London Paddington station. Paddington is the major train hub located in Zone 1 in Central London. The single fare from Heathrow Airport to Paddington is £7.90. The journey took about 25 minutes. From Paddington Station you can transfer to some of the London Underground system (TUBE) such as Bakerloo line, Circle line, District line and Hammersmith & City line. The station looks very old but well-maintained. It has been built since 1838. The station is very non-users friendly because there are no escalators and lift. Not suitable for travelers with big luggage and also for oldies. From Paddington, we took Circle/District line (London Underground) to Bayswater station at Hyde Park. It cost us about £1.80 per person with Oyster Card. Without the Oyster Card the fare will be £4.00 per journey within Zone 1. The hotel that we were going to stayed was located just few meters away from Bayswater station.

Gate C12 in the Satellite Terminal, KLIA.

Etihad Airways A330-200.

The cabin.

It is a time to sleep. Good night.

The meal.

We were flying above the Indian Ocean. There was nothing to see outside!

A phone come together with the remote control.

Remote control.

The touch-screen media player.

Gear Down, Approaching Minimum, Minimum, 100, 60, 30, 20, 10! Touched down. Nose down. Tadaaa!

Welcome to Abu Dhabi International Airport!

Another Etihad!

Abu Dhabi International Airport.

Abu Dhabi International Airport.

We were going to reached London soon.

Our flight just passed by Belgium.

The aircraft fly at altitude 10515m.

The metropolitan city of London viewed from the sky.

Welcome to Terminal 4 at London Heathrow Airport!

I was waiting for a train to Paddington.

Paddington Station.

PLAN YOUR TRIP

Oyster Card
Fare: £5.00 (£3.00 refundable deposit and £2.00 worth of credit).
Benefits: Daily price cap, cheaper than cash for single fares, cashless.
Price cap for Zone 1: £7.20 (peak) or £5.60 (off-peak).

Heathrow to Paddington with Heathrow Connect
Fare: £7.90 (single fare).
Duration: Estimated about 25 minutes.

Kuala Lumpur – Abu Dhabi – London with Etihad Airways
Travel Class: Coral Economy Class.
Fare (Return-ticket): RM3938 (or £818) per guest during the peak season.
Aircraft: A330-200 (Kuala Lumpur – Abu Dhabi) and A340-600 (Abu Dhabi – London).
Duration: 7 hours 20 minutes (Kuala Lumpur – Abu Dhabi) and 8 hours (Abu Dhabi – London).
Meal: Yes.
Baggage Allowance: 20 kg.
Cabin Baggage Allowance: Max 7 kg (One piece per guest).

Lately, the demand was increasing drastically because Islamic population getting bigger. The current size is very limited and not enough to fulfill the current demand. That’s why there is a quota to control the number of travelers from every country especially during the Hajj season and Ramadan season. The Saudi government is doing something to solve the problem.

Currently there is a mega construction to extend the mosque. This is a fourth extension which began in 2007. In the future, Masjid al-Haram can support more people from all around the world. The overcrowded problem is very dangerous to the travelers. According to the statistic, at least 2400 Muslim pilgrims have been killed in stampede since 1990. I hope with a bigger mosque, it can solve many problems.

The Kaaba.

Not far from Abdul Aziz Gate which is located on the east.

Marwah (Al-Marwah) is a small mountain. It is located 91m from the Kaabah.

Al-Safa and Al-Marwah. This is where the people perform Sa’ee (Sa’i).

The distance between Safa and Marwah is around 450 meters.

Al-Marwah and Fatah Gate.

So many people are walking toward the Masjid al-Haram at the construction area. Where’s the safety?

This is Marwah viewed from the Fatah Gate.

The construction was going on at As-Salaam Gate.

The city of Mecca.

One of the buildings collapsed by the C4 bomb. The crazy thing, it happened less than 200 meters from the crowds without proper safety. This was my first time witness a tall building collapsed. Auchh, the dust.

Auchh, the traffic.

On the background, you can see Abraj Al-Bait Tower. The building is still under-construction. It will be the world’s largest building. The architecture design is wonderful.

She’ab Amer Tunnel.

She’ab Amer Tunnel.

Inside the She’ab Amer Tunnel.

This place was so scary because there is no safety.

View Larger Map

The Boathouse at Stanley.

The Blake Pier at Stanley. The original structure was built in Central. On the year 2007, this structure was transferred to Murray House, Stanley.

Few girls wearing graduation robe outside the Murray House.

Murray House (Hong Kong Maritime Museum and restaurants). This building was re-build in year 1998. The original building was build by the colonial in year 1846. The previous location was in Central.

Pubs, cafes and restaurants, all are here. The design follows the western concept.

Dude, do you want some beer?

This is Stanley.

Stanley.

Blake Pier viewed from another angle.

The people busy fishing at the rocks side.

Stanley Market Road.

Stanley Market is the place where you can buy the souvenirs. Very cheap sumore!

Morphis The Moviewide Theater?

I don’t know who is she and she got so many fans. Her voice is very sweet. That’s what can I say. After the performance, at the backstage, she is passing by to me and says “Hello”. Hahaha.

I cannot understand what she saying. She speaks in Cantonese.

The crowds are watching the performance.

Two girls singing some English songs.

w00t w00t!!!

Tadaaa!!!!

Ok, done with the performance. Clap clap clap!!!

I’m good in stalking too. Here is one of my paparazzi photos that I secretly took.

The anime Cosplayers posing during the photoshoot.

A girl with maid costume. Very kawaii ler!!!

Time to pose!

The dresses look very weird but extremely unique.

Stanley is located in the south of Hong Kong Island.

Stanley Map. (Powered by Wikimapia @ Google Earth)

It’s also a nice place for honeymoon because there are three wonderful beaches in Sentosa Island which are Palawan Beach, Siloso Beach and Tanjong Beach. Palawan Beach is the place where a suspension bridge links to the Southernmost Point of Continental Asia (Asia’s closest point to the Equator). Sentosa Island has the biggest war museum in the South East Asia. It is the centerpiece of Britain’s spectacularly unsuccessful “Fortress Singapore” strategy in World War II. Sentosa Island also has an Underwater World where the oceanarium is home to more than 2,500 fishes from 250 different species. There are too many other attractions to list up.

I can bet that you will have an unforgettable traveling experience. It’s worth for you to spend the whole day for enjoyment. Have a nice holiday!

Sentosa Island.

Sunset at Siloso Beach.

Tiger Sky Tower is where you can view the Sentosa Island by 360 degrees.

Skyride is where you can observe the power of the Green energy. The route is surrounded by the tropical trees.

During sunset.

Peoples are waiting to enter the laser show.

English couple is waiting and ready to take off.

Dang oldskool! Very 40’s!!!

Black and White television! Auchh, what the fish!

This is the place where the soldiers stayed during WorldWar2.

A high-rank officer is monitoring his crew members.

Watch tower.

Dang sweaty!

A signboard of Siloso Beach.

Delifrance in Sentosa Island.

Sunset created a beautiful silhouette of the tropical trees.

Extra:

The air is heavy populated cause of heavy industrial in southern part of Singapore.

Singapore city is on the north.

Official website:
http://sentosa.com.sg

Please welcome to Marine Land Ocean Park.

Dolphin Show at Ocean Theatre.

Weee~!!!

Today’s Show Time.

Crowd at the Ocean Theater are watching dolphin show.

A Chinese girl is playing hide and seek with a cute dolphin.

A Chinese guy is feeding the sea lion.

A dolphin is waiting the order from his master.

A guest is trying to shake hand with the dolphin.

Another Asian girl is trying to shake hand with the sea lion.

WhooopS!

She can’t swim.

Asian girl: Help, help me!

A brave dolphin helping that girl and send her back to the stage.

Splassshh~!

Weeee~!! Feel like playing Jet Ski.

Tadaaaa~!!!

Atoll Reef.

Underwater.

What’s that? Black color Unidentified Sea Object (USO)?

Woah, he’s coming!

Ohh, it’s a stingray!

Sharks and Rays belong to the same family?

The entrance.

Pacific Pier, the highest place in Ocean Park. This is the place where you can see the seals and sea lions.

*As you notice, there are two type of photos quality in this post. It’s due to I was using two different type of cameras. Errr, I think it is the time for me to buy a new DSLR camera.

Full Size Ocean Park Guide Map

Ocean Park Map. (Powered by Wikimapia @ Google Earth)

Please click here to read more about Ocean Park on previous post.
http://www.tolanic.com/hong-kong-ocean-park/

Hyde Park and Kensington Gardens are one of the largest parks in the heart of London, England. It is located on the south from Bayswater. These two parks are located at the same area. It is also one of the Royal Parks of London. The other Royal Parks of London are Bushy Park, Green Park, Greenwich Park, Regent’s Park, Richmond Park and St. James Park.

Hyde Park is open to public from 5am until midnight. Meanwhile, Kensington Gardens is open from 6am to dusk. The overall area is 625 acres. Both areas are planted with beautiful green trees and ornamental flower beds around the lakes. These two parks are very popular for sunbathing, picnics and other health activities such as walking, jogging, cycling and tai chi because of the peaceful environment and magnificent scenery.

Hyde Park and Kensington Gardens provides many varieties of fauna such as squirrels, pigeons, robin, dunnocks, tits, butterflies, buzzard, Egyptian geese, white swan and black swan. You can hear the birds singing while you walk. It is a suitable place for peace of mind seeker. This place is very relaxing. I believe after you went to this place, you won’t forget for your whole life!

There are several types of birds playing together at Round Pond, Kensington Gardens.

Two beautiful white swan birds.

I was walking along the park before sunset.

Round Pond, Kensington Gardens.

That was me, on the left.

The trees during the winter season.

Bayswater Station (TUBE).

The Sepertine at Hyde Park.

I like wildfowl. They are cute!

The statue of Queen Victoria in front of Kensington Palace.

This is Tolanic.

This is the silhouette photo of the Kensington Palace during the dusk.

PLAN YOUR TRIP

Oyster Card
Fare: £5.00 (£3.00 refundable deposit and £2.00 worth of credit).
Benefits: Daily price cap, cheaper than cash for single fares, cashless.
Price cap for Zone 1: £7.20 (peak) or £5.60 (off-peak).

Nearest TUBE stations – Hyde Park
1. Lancaster Gate – Central Line
2. Marble Arch – Central Line
3. Hyde Park Corner – Piccadilly Line
4. Knightsbridge – Piccadilly Line

Nearest TUBE stations – Kensington Gardens
1. Lancaster Gate – Central Line
2. Queensway – Central Line
3. Bayswater – District Line
4. High Street Kensington – Circle and District Lines

Hyde Park
Opening Hours: From 5am until midnight.
Admission: Free
Website: http://www.royalparks.org.uk/parks/hyde_park/
Attractions: Diana Fountain, 7 July Memorial, Speaker’s Corner, Sepertine Boat Hire, The Lido, Tennis Centre and Sepertine Bar & Kitchen.

Kensington Gardens
Opening Hours: From 6am to dusk.
Admission: Free
Website: http://www.royalparks.org.uk/parks/kensington_gardens/
Attractions: Round Pond, Kensington Palace, Albert Memorial, Peter Pan Statue, Italian Gardens, Diana Playground and Diana Playground Cafe.

View Larger Map

Firstly, I would like to say sorry because I abandoned this blog for quite long time. I didn’t update this blog about almost 3 months because I was too busy with meetings.

Secondly, I’m proudly to announce I will travel to Abu Dhabi for transit with Airbus A340-600 Etihad Airways departing from KLIA on Saturday morning (December 26, 2009). Just one day after the Christmas. After that I will fly to London Heathrow Airport. I’m going to stay at Hyde Park in London until next year. I cannot wait to feel the white snow. This year I’m going to celebrate New Year in Greenwich!

I promise starting from next year I will update this blog more frequently. Don’t forget to check my blog after New Year. See you all!

USAF Thunderbids.

RMAF Sukhoi is ready to take off.

What the birds doing over there?

The strong wind blast off at more than 10 knots.

Small light aircraft for cadet pilot training.

Polis Diraja Malaysia helicopter.

Thunderbirds from USAF!

Berjaya Air.

This is me!

Related event:
Lima Langkawi 2007

Uhud was located about 5km from Medina. The battle between the Muslims and the Meccans (Quraysh) was happened here at the valley that located in front of the mount Uhud on year 625. The Muslim army was lead by Prophet Muhammad, Saidina Hamza ibn Talib and Saidina Ali. There are about 70 Muslims died in this battle. The enemies are outnumbered about three times more than the Muslim army. The victory goes to Quraysh.

After that, we went to Masjid al-Qiblatain (Mosque of the two Qiblas). The historical event was held at this mosque where in the past the Muslims have been commanded to change the Qibla (the direction of prayer) about 180 degrees turn from Jerusalem to Makkah (Mecca).

Few days later, we left Medina and move forward to Makkah. I love al-Masjid al-Nabawi. I cannot wait to visit that place again in the future.

Al-Qiblatain mosque (Mosque two Qiblas) seen from outside. Architectural design which greatly good!

Silhouette of Al-Qiblatain mosque.

Beautiful scenery in Al-Qiblatain mosque.

Outside the Al-Qiblatian mosque.

This is the place that where the Muslims ambushed by Quraysh armies in Battle of Uhud. 70 Muslim troops died in this ambush. More info: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Battle_of_Uhud

Quraysh archeries attacked Muslims from this mountain.

Close view.

Sunset at Medina.

Another sunset at Medina.

Final look before we leave Medina.

We are on the way to Makkah (the holiest place for Muslims) by bus.

Trip to Medina
http://www.tolanic.com/?p=66

On last year, my family and I went to Saudi Arabia to do the Umrah. Before we do the Umrah at Makkah, we have visited Medina. We took Saudi Arabian Airlines. We arrived at Prince Mohammad Bin Abdulaziz International Airport (IATA:MED – ICAO:OEMA) around 03:00 on April 18. This airport is the fourth busiest airport in Saudi Arabia and located in the western city of Medina.

Medina is the second holiest city in Islam after Makkah. It is the place where Prophet Muhammad was burried. He is the founder of the religion of Islam and a messenger of God (Allah SWT). He is the last Prophets after Jesus Christ. Medina also called as “The Radiant City”. The location is about 338 kilometers from Makkah.

After delayed about almost 2 hours waiting for the shuttle to the hotel, finally the shuttle is arrived and brings us to the hotel. Our hotel is located just few meters from The Mosque of the Prophet (al-Masjid al-Nabawi).

The Mosque of the Prophet (al-Masjid al-Nabawi) is the ‘Haram’ place, where the non-Muslims are not allowed to enter this area. The Mosque is very big. It is the second largest mosque in the planet and the capacity can support up to 1 million of people. When I visit the Prophet’s Mosque, the environment inside there is very relaxing and peaceful. The temperature inside the Mosque is not hot and not so cold. The mosque is equipped with fully air-conditioner and also thousands of CCTV. The mosque is well-maintained by Bin Laden Group. The safety and security is very strict. We cannot bring the camera and phone. So, there is no photo inside the mosque that I can share to you guys. Sorry.

On my first day in Medina, I didn’t get chance to visit Raudah (Ar-Rawdah an-Nabawiyah) because that small place is too crowded. Raudah is the heart of the Prophet’s mosque. This place is special and also can consider part of Garden (Heaven / Jannah). That small place can accommodate only a few hundred of people at one time where thousands of people trying to grab the opportunity to enter. If you have no fate, the chance for you to enter that place is almost impossible. Finally, on the third day in Medina, I got chance to enter Raudah. I also didn’t miss the opportunity to donate (sedekah) few books of al-Quran.

I also didn’t miss the opportunity to visit Prophet Muhammad’s tomb which is located under the Green Dome of al-Masjid al-Nabawi. It also located just beside the Raudah (Ar-Rawdah an-Nabawiyah). Prophet Muhammad is buried next to the first two Khalifah (Abu Bakar and Omar). Abu Bakar As-Siddiq is one of the earliest people to covert to Islam and also a senior Sahabat of the Prophet Muhammad. Omar ibn al-Khattab is the most powerful Khalifah r-Rashidun and he also has been called as the Commander of the Faithful.

View from outside of the main entrance of al-Masjid al-Nabawi.

View of the mosque at night after Isyak prayer.

Sunrise created silhouette of the buildings in city of Medina.

Jannat Al-Baqi. It is a cemetery that contains Prophet Muhammad’s relatives and companions. This cemetery is located at the southeastern of al-Masjid al-Nabawi.

Kurma Market. They sell variety of dates at dirt cheap price.

There are many types of dates from few different countries selling over here.

Their cops.

The place is so big.

The lamp post has a very unique design. I bet the cost is expensive to build that thing.

So many towers!

I can see the mosque!

Fuahh, the sun is so big!

Free-flow ZamZam drinking water. Good for your health! =)

View from high altitude and that is the final layer of clouds. The sky’s color varies from pale to dark.

Saudi Arabian Airlines. That is my aircraft!

The Palm Dubai from aerial view (aircraft).

This beautiful building is located on the south of the al-Masjid al-Nabawi.

Do you realize the height of the buildings is almost the same?

Weird architectural design.

One of the outdoor carpark located just few meters from al-Masjid al-Nabawi.

A small clock tower located not far from the main entrance of the main mosque.

The sun is on the top of Green Dome.

The first moment I saw al-Masjid al-Nabawi.

al-Masjid al-Nabawi (North)

al-Masjid al-Nabawi (East)

Medina – Battle of Uhud & Al-Qiblatain Mosque
http://www.tolanic.com/?p=558

The Park opens at 10am and close at 6pm. The admission rates is HK$208 for adult and HK$103 for child.

I think it is enough with my short brief about Ocean Park. My conclusion, this is one of the places you must visit when you had a trip to Hong Kong. Have fun!

Welcome to Ocean Park Hong Kong!

Raging River. Woah, this place reminds me about ‘Roller Coaster Tycoon’ game.

Raging River. Wheeeee!!! Dang wet weh!!!

Raging River. Closer look of the water guns.

Pacific Pier, the highest place in Ocean Park. This is the place where you can see the seals and sea lions.

The main entrance of Ocean Park.

Christmas display decorated near to the main entrance.

Hot air balloon at Sky Fair.

Few English guys are playing instruments for the street performance.

Ocean Park viewed from high-angle. The park is very green!

Mine Train. The track length is about 678 meters. The highest point is 85 meters above the sea level.

Mine Train. I was in this picture. Do you know which one is me?

Ferris Wheel.

Do you want to feel the power of G-force when losing altitudes in high speed but with less risk? The Abyss Turbo Drop is the best solution for you. You can feel the thrill of free fall from 185 feet.

The Dragon. This is the best roller coaster in Hong Kong. The track length is about 842 meter.

The Dragon’s roller coaster track.

Golden Fried Chicken.

Raging River Squid. The ‘sotong bakar’ is super nice and tasty. The price is not that expensive.

The Hong Kong Jockey Club Giant Panda Habitat. There are about 4 pandas over here. All the Giant Pandas are from China.

The Panda look so cute. This panda age less than 5 years old.

The Cable Cars is the main transport to connect from the Lowlands to the Headlands.

There are many constructions to upgrade the theme park still going on.

The mountain separates the Lowlands and Headlands.

This is the bus stop at Cental Ferry Piers to Ocean Park. The route code is ‘629’ by CityBus. Time: 0935, 0955, 1015, 1035, 1055 (last bus). The rate is $10.60 for adult. Don’t forget to bring your Octopus Card.

I miss the last bus. So, I took taxi to Ocean Park.

Ocean Park.

Full Size Ocean Park Guide Map

Ocean Park Map. (Powered by Wikimapia @ Google Earth)

VIDEOS:

Ocean Park

Ocean Park theme park viewed from Ocean Park Tower.

Mine Train

Not my voice. Since my mouth already kena zipped.

The Dragon

My voice is not there also. Hahaha.

*As you notice, there are two type of photos quality in this post. It’s due to I was using two different type of cameras. Errr, I think it is the time for me to buy a new DSLR camera.

Please click here to read the next article about Ocean Park. The next topic is about Marine Land in Ocean Park.
http://www.tolanic.com/hong-kong-marine-land-ocean-park/

The worst thing I don’t like about Bandung is the traffic. The roads in Bandung are very small to support the 3 millions populations’ makes the traffic become very havoc. Most of them ignore the road safety and law. Traffic light is totally useless. Most of the drivers drive very aggressive. Believe it or not, this city is polluted with honk sound which is roughly at least 10 honks per minute.

There are tons of Factory Outlets in Jalan Dago (Dago Street). This is one of it. The price is quite cheap. I bought three good quality t-shirts from this shop with less than RM50.

Do not forget to try the most popular cake in Bandung called Brownies Kukus (Steamed Chocolate Brownies). The cake is light and spongy on the top part with thick creamy layer of chocolate on the bottom. Lezat sungguh! The taste is awesome! The price is somewhere around Rp 22000 (RM 7.60) per box. You can find it almost every corner of Bandung’s streets, especially hawkers and stalls. You should give a try! I guarantee you won’t regret it!

Every factory outlet has unique exterior and interior design.

Jalan Dago not crowded as other places in Bandung.

Here also got sell Brownies Kukus!

The green van called Angkot is the most famous public transport in Bandung. Bandung doesn’t have the normal bus system due too this city is very crowded and the road is very small. When you reach the destination, do not forget to shout ‘kiri’ (Left). It is a request for the driver to stop-and-drop you.

Another factory outlet!

The traffic is havoc at Cihampelas Street even during the midnight. You want to wait until the traffic is clear to cross the road safely? Impossible! At least, not in Bandung! Heavy traffic is continuously until few more hours.

Midnight atmosphere at Cihampelas Street.

* Sorry about the photos quality is very bad. I forgot to bring the DSLR. So, I just use the cheap compact camera.

Mt. Tangkuban Perahu Volcano, Bandung

Wanna get some fresh air with a very relaxing greenish view? This is the place for you to visit.

Hot spring.

Woah, this is so hot!!!

Mini hot spring.

Not far from the village

Abandoned village located few meters from the volcano.

An artisan is crafting the wood for handicraft.

The natural wood pattern is already unique.

Jungle trekking.

A tourist guide is explaining to the tourists about the trees.

An ugly fungus is about the size of human palm.

*Sorry, the photos are super poor due to I was using a compact camera.

Very beautiful sunrise only can be seen from the aircraft.

The sun almost reached the horizon.

Finally, the sun reached the horizon.

Langkawi International Airport (LGK / WMKL). This is my fourth times travel with Air Asia.

Air travel with Cathay Pacific from Malaysia to Hong Kong is finally arrived the destination. This picture was taken from the personal on-board TV.

Saudi Arabian Airlines. This is my flight when I was on the trip to Saudi Arabia.

The Palm Dubai seen from high altitude.

View from high altitude. The sky’s color varies from pale to dark.

Only one shop really switched off the light.

Starhill KL

I like Starhill. The mood of Earth Hour event is really there. Most of the shops switched off the lights to support this event. The live performances are also very sweet. Bravo!

After 9.30pm.

As conclusion, I have made a right choice to go to Starhill. I really satisfied with the event here, quite happening.

* Sorry about the very bad photos quality because I was using the camera phone.

Details:
Time: 8.30pm – 9.30pm
Date: March 28, 2009 (Saturday)
Location: Starhill and Pavilion, Bukit Bintang, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia

Sacred Valley. I love this map. This map has village and also jungle.

I am a captain for this round. I’m giving command to my teammates and brief the tactics.

This is Convicted_Knight. He is one of the senior in paintball.

Someone was hiding inside there. Can you spot him?

Hey Pixy. Pity to you lah bro. Enemies can easily know your location because you was wearing a very bright color shirt. No wonder you always get killed.

Run baby run!

Stalking someone ka?

Fuahh, very hard to spot him!

Your legs already blend with the background.

Safe zone.

Don’t play play. Big guy also can play paintball!

Wearing blue color is not suitable to play in the jungle

Someone was wearing a mask like in Star Wars.

Hmmm…

Can you see the enemy?

Airborne trooper?

Faliq is wearing a green suit with black equipments.

Get ready to rush.

You cannot get me!

Someone was hiding behind one of the buildings at Sacred Valley.

This is me with Multicam uniform.

Videos:

Location: Paintball Valley, Bukit Cerakah, Shah Alam, Selangor, Malaysia
Date: June 27, 2009 (Saturday)
Mode: Jungle

Original Discussion

Lion of Singapore (National Symbol of Singapore).

Nightlife at Boat Quay. The good place to chill at night.

Colorful lights reflect the river at Boat Quay.

The Fullerton Hotel.

Bugis Junction.

Interior view.

Main entrance.

Seiyu at Bugis Junction.

First to go, of course is LV!!!

Wait a minute, the queue is very long.

Why not we walk a bit to check the other stores?

Emporio Armani also not bad.

Miu Miu.

Gucci also in gold color.

Nike Store looks very energetic.

Very colorful concept at Causeway Bay.

Chanel.

LV. The queue is still long!

Hugo Boss.

Prada.

Have you heard about MaBelle? If you don’t know, please watch “Gem of Life (TVB)”.

Dior. Peoples are waiting to across the road.

Omega!!! They sell very high quality watches.

Gucci in blue.

Entrance of Harbour City.

Food Republic in Hong Kong.

Fendi.

LV. Just go queue only lah!

Extra:

The environment.

Another LV store.

Hermes.

Esprit.

Armani Exchange at Canton Road.

This is me with a cheap camera.

The Peak Tower.

The Peak Tower views from the sky terrace.

EA Experience. A virtual world and store for gamers.

Indoor Christmas theme decorated in The Peak during the Christmas season.

Have you heard about Bubba Gump? This is very famous quote taken from the movie “Forest Gump” during 90’s. They sell the shrimp too!!!

The Tram at The Peak.

Interior of The Peak Tower.

Bruce Lee is still alive!

Hallo everybody!

Rejected Photos:

Bus to The Peak.

Bus to The Peak.

The Peak Galleria.

Extra.

Details:
Location: The Peak, Victoria Peak, Hong Kong
Date: December 28, 2008 (Sunday)
Time: 06.40pm – 08.30pm
Camera: Fujifilm S7000 and Canon Ixus C520
Status: Amatuer

The Official Website of The Peak:
http://www.thepeak.com.hk

I’m really disappointed. I already waited since 03.30pm at Syuen Hotel Ipoh just want to watch solar eclipse (the peak is around 04.30pm). Suddenly the sky turns very dark and cloudy around 04.00pm. I still wait patiently eventhough there is no hope to see the sun. Finally, I saw something interesting few minutes before the end of solar eclipse around 6.50pm. The rainbow something like aurora appeared from the edge of the cloud. The sun is right behind on that cloud. The rainbow is moving like a gas. I got a chance to take few photos and a video. At least I saw something interesting even with the bad weather. So, it’s worth for me to wait few hours. I hope you enjoy.

Close-up view of the aurora. It’s very colorful like a rainbow.

Please click More to see more photos and video.

The sun is covered by this cloud. I cannot see the solar eclipse!

Yummy yummy!

It’s so beautiful!

The aurora is almost gone.

Video:

Details:
Location: Ipoh, Perak, Malaysia
Date: January 26, 2009 (Monday)
Time: 06.53pm – 06.58pm
Camera: Fujifilm S7000
Status: Amatuer

REVIEW:
On the January 14th, I got the invitation from one of the Les’Copaque crew to join the Press Preview of “Geng: Pengembaraan Bermula” at Cathay Cineplexes, Mutiara Damansara. I got a chance as a first batch to watch this film before it officially release on February 12. After I watched this film, finally I wrote a simple review about this film. I hope you enjoy.

Storyline:
This film has a very strong plot. Every scene is supporting each other very well from comedy to mystery. The storyline is very easy to understand and suitable to all peoples. Some of the scenes have a sad part and also a very scary part. It really gives the mood. Do not worry about the scary parts. It is still watchable for all kids.

Environment:
The scenes also promoting the local cultures by showing the Kampung (village) style environment. It can help the others to understand the lifestyle of local peoples.

Characters:
All the main characters are from different major races in Malaysia. Those races are Malays, Chinese and Indians. This is to show the racial harmony and multi-cultural in Malaysia.

Audio:
This is one of the first local films that produced with a very good sound quality. The audio mixing is done by Kantana Sound, Thailand. The sound effects are totally awesome. It hit the mood of the scene. The dubbing also very-well blend with lip-sync. Not like other local film, where the dubbing are very crappy and doesn’t match with the actor’s lip-sync and expression.

Animation:
This 3D animation made by Key Frame Animation technique by using Maya. So, don’t expect this animation is smooth like what you watch the animation that made by Pixar. Those Hollywood animations are normally using motion capture technique.

Visual:
The rendering quality is not that realistic, but it’s enough to give the mood. It’s due to the cost is quite low-budget. I like the bullet-time effect (Matrix style) scenes. Bullet-time effect means slow-motion.

Overall:
What can I say; this is the next-Gen of our local-film. This is the best local film ever in Malaysia. Do not shock if the quality is same level with international standard and even much better than common Hollywood films. This film is totally different compared to the previous local-made films. I can guarantee you, its worth to spend your time and RM to watch this local-film. Yes, it’s worth I repeat. Come, support local film! Good job to Les’ Copaque Production!

Press Preview:

Inside the cinema hall just before the movie is started.

The “Now Showing” posters all changed to Geng.

*All photos are courtesy of Les’Copaque Production : Official Blog

Details:

Title: Geng: Pengembaraan Bermula
Type: 3D Animation (Key Frame)
Genre: Comedy, Adventure, Animation, Fantasy, Mystery
Language: Bahasa Malaysia (with English subtitle)
Duration: 90minutes
Budget: RM 4 million
Director: Mohd. Nizam Abd. Razak
Production: Les’Copaque Sdn Bhd
Distributor: Grand Brilliance Sdn Bhd
Release Date: February 12, 2009 (Thursday)

Official Website:
http://www.gengthemovie.com (with trailer)

Synopsis:
Something disturbs the peace in the village of Kampong Durian Runtuh. Villagers tell of a fearsome beast lurking at night but no one dares to find out what it is until Badrol, Lim and their newfound friends stumble upon the very heart of the mystery itself. A small peculiar animal, not native of the forest befriends Rajoo and brings the whole gang into an adventure deep into the exotic Malaysian rainforest filled with dangerous animals including an age old mystical giant snake. Join the gang as they embark on a journey of action and adventure set upon the warm atmosphere of a Malaysian village enclosed by landscapes of greenery.

December 26, 2008 (07:05pm)
After 2 hours I reached Hong Kong, I spent my time hang around and relaxing at the Avenue of Stars which is not far from Harbour City and Star Ferry at Tsim Sha Tsui. While I hang around at Bruce Lee statue, suddenly I heard few peoples shouting very loud in Cantonese just few meters from me. After a while, they start punching on each others. At first, I thought it just a street show to create a gimmick to attract the tourists since it was happen just few meters from Bruce Lee statue. Amazingly, in less than 2 minutes, both of the bad guys get pinned down by the undercover cops. One of the cops is a pretty young girl who is wearing normal civilian clothes. Few minutes later, few security officers and cops came for backup and both of them finally get arrested. That time only I realize it is a real fight.
Too bad, I haven’t record the whole scene because I was too shocked. I only record after the fighting scene. I hope you enjoy the video.

Sorry because of very bad camera angle. It’s due to police officers was controlling the area and taking pictures are not allowed.

The location.

Bruce Lee statue.

Bruce Lee signature on the floor.

Extra:

Avenue of Stars.

Details:
Location: Avenue of Stars, Tsim Sha Tsui, Kowloon, Hong Kong
Date: December 26, 2008
Time: 07:05pm
Camera: Olympus
Status: Amatuer

Reference:
3 in court over false credit cards, passports

Welcome 2009! What a fresh look of Hong Kong after the New Year Eve.

International Finance Centre (IFC), Hong Kong before the New Year Eve.

The crowds are waiting for New Year Countdown at Marco Polo Hong Kong Hotels (VIP area). The crowds estimated about 500,000 of peoples.

Peoples celebrates end of the year party before entering a new year.

The wind blows the flags. The temperature is about 10°c.

The fireworks are totally awesome! But the show last less than 5 minutes.

Party at Harbour City.

It’s a time to move on!

Extra (Personal):

This is me!!!

Details:
Location: Tsim Sha Tsui, Kowloon, Hong Kong
Date: December 31, 2008 – January 1, 2009
Time: 11.30pm – 02.00am
Camera: Fujifilm S7000
Status: Amatuer

Video:

The Eyes on Melaka Ferris Wheel is very small compare to Eyes on Malaysia Ferris Wheel.

Jambatan Terminal Cathay.

The old building was built many years ago along the Malacca River.

The rescue team is preparing to find the dead body that is fall into the river roughly around one hour ago.

Let’s go!

The crowds waiting patiently at the Chan Koon Cheng Bridge to watch the rescue team finds the dead body.

Extra:
Eyes on Malaysia, Titiwangsa, Kuala Lumpur
http://www.tolanic.com/?p=8

This is our first training for TM Triple Play 2008. This crash course led by Abang Lan (owner of Isi Rimba) and Badman (from Team Stingerz). Team Stingerz is a core team from Isi Rimba. They are experienced in paintball for so many years. Currently they are in Division 1. They are willing to coach us for free. Thanks a lot to Abang Lan and Badman. This crash course is done at super strict level. This is our first time trained really serious in paintball. We are train like a soldier. We train very hard on that day to cover up so many basic techniques in ONE day from early morning till late evening. We also learned about the breakout formation and tactics. Eventhough it is really tiring, but it’s a good start to level up our skills to become a better team. Overall, it’s worth for the energy and time. Thanks again to Isi Rimba. We promise we can do well in TM Triple Play paintball tournament.

Place : Isi Rimba, Gombak, Selangor
Game: Paintball Training
Time : 9.00am – 6.00pm
Date : Saturday, 3 August 2008

Game 1 : We Won

Game 2 : We Lost

Game 3 : We Won

Practicing breakout formation.

Team briefing by Syamil (Team Leader).

Badman briefing the Marshal.

Badman briefing Dixxie about how to play defending.

Syamil is in action.

Abang Lan (our coach) is in action.

Badman is reloading the pellets.

Kena kena!

Taking fire!

Syamil pushing to forward.

Syafiq hiding behind the bunker.

Syamil demostrate how to shoot in a proper way.

Relax relax!

All.

RIMBA HYDRO
1. Faliq
2. Syamil (Ghost)
3. Syafiq
4. Thaqib (Shark)
5. Justin (t4l0n)
6. Dickson
7. Dry Ice

COACH
1. Abg Lan
2. Badman

Original Discussion:
http://forums.xhydro.net/index.php?topic=2771.0

TM Triple Play:
http://www.forthdimension.com.my/

Camera: Fujifilm S7000 (without tripod)
Date: August 12, 2008 (Tuesday)
Time: 9.30pm
Location: near PICC, Putrajaya, Malaysia