Vietnam D5 - Sapa Part Two

Good Morning Blog,

I was amazed that I took over 200 photos for today's post... I felt exhausted because I knew I would have a lot to write. Anyway, back to the topic. Sapa's Fansipan Halong Bay and Ninh Bình are must-see destinations among Vietnam's diverse landscapes.

I awoke early today to check the window, hoping to see the sunrise, but then I realised it was foggy.

I was worried that today's Fansipan would be foggy and freezing. I do not take colds well, and I was afraid that my mother would also be unable to cope with the cold.

Vietnam D4 - Sapa Part One

Merry Christmas Blog,

On Day 4, we travelled to Sapa, which was the highlight of our trip. I was so excited about it! And, thank goodness, I was able to output at night and overcome my constipation before travelling to a distant location.

Wearing my sleeping bag (sleeping suit) helps me stay warm in a hotel room. I am simply a weirdo... Anyway, we needed to get up early the next day.

I will do my best to post pictures first on this blog post, and then I will gradually add text. I should not rush things because it will make me feel stressed.

Vietnam D3 - Sail Along the Dragons

Hi Blog,

It was my third day in Vietnam. Overall, the experience was positive except for a bloated tummy with days of constipation, which was painful, especially when sitting down. Yes, most people will criticise me for always wearing tight trousers, which reminds me to learn to be more self-aware. Little did they know that the bloating was concentrated in the upper abdomen rather than the entire tummy.

Day 3 morning seemed hazier and greyish.

Anyway, I will be fine today if I eat less to ease myself. Where are we headed today? Explore Ninh Bình - Halong Bay on Land!

Vietnam D2 - Meet the Dragons

Good Morning Blog,

On my second day in Vietnam, I could not sleep well because I was bloated, and I hoped to unload myself before heading out.

I feel pain whenever I am bloated.

Today's itinerary includes a visit to HạLong Bay, a well-known and breathtaking landscape in Vietnam.

Vietnam D1 - Life in the City

Hi Blog,

With many worries, the time has come to travel again... As stated in the title, this time we were going to Vietnam. People who know me understand that I prefer not to travel abroad frequently in order to save money; personally, I would like to travel once a year, but this year has already passed... My mother asked me to accompany her because my auntie could not go and no one was sharing the room with her, so I simply accompanied her.

Anyway, before I get too far off track, let me stay focused and broaden my horizons to include countries that I have never considered visiting.

Many of my friends have mentioned that Vietnam is a beautiful and simple place. My concerns were about safety... I guess I should just be cautious.

Island Club Road Path

Good Morning Blog,

ZN arrived yesterday and stayed overnight at my house to finish the game he had left unfinished and go on a hike.

I was thinking about today's whole-day event. I have to lead an activity for the elderly in the afternoon, assist with a class in the evening, and play badminton with my brother at night. What a long day.

So today's walk will be brief because, on one of my recent hikes in MacRitchie, I discovered a new route to Upper Peirce Reservoir and decided to try it.

Meeting Ipoh Friends in KL

Hi Blog,

You were well aware of this. Yes, on 18th Oct 2024, I will be travelling again. I am going to KL to catch up with my Ipoh friends. We try to get together once a year as a ritual to bond with one another and look forward to it.

I took Friday off because EK intended to drive up to KL and avoid the traffic jam at JB Customs later in the day.

Honestly, I am not a wealthy man. I have been extremely disciplined and mindful of my spending, only covering our lodging and food. How I wish I did not have to worry about money. It does not matter; the main goal was to catch up, so I should look forward to it.

Botanic Gardens Tyersall Gallop Extension

Good Morning Blog,

BP had been asking me to accompany him to the Botanic Garden's new zone for months because his girlfriend would be unable to explore with him. So I agreed to go because I had promised him.

What a great morning today.

Today's trip was a general and less detailed one; you should explore it yourself 😉

Korea D4 & 5 - Seoul Chill

Hi Blog,

I decided to combine Days 4 and 5; I wondered if I should post Day 1 through Day 5 as a single post. This was not a wise decision. Because I like to divide my content into meaningful sections with titles.

Anyway, what were we going to do on Day 4?

HD wanted to bring me to experience the beautiful city side of Korea. Thanks, HD, for bringing me around.

Korea D3 - Seoul Architect

Hi Blog,

Today was my third day in Korea, and our two ladies would be returning to Singapore. HD had some ideas for our day's itinerary in the morning.

We woke up early, but we still considered it late compared to what we had agreed upon. I suppose that is how group travel works; different personalities and characters must be taken into account.

HD wanted us to experience some Korean culture and heritage, which he thought I would enjoy.

Korea D2 - Seoul Searching

Good Morning Blog,

Today was the second day in Korea. Everyone's body clock simply woke us up to prepare for the day ahead.

ML and I decided to step out to explore the place where we stayed.

HD was on his way, taking a transit flight to Korea to join our group. He should arrive within the next few hours to bring us around.

Korea D1 - Seoul Shopping

Hi Blog,

I am going to Korea today! Many people react the same way when I tell them I am going to Korea: "Wah!" "You are so rich!" I understand why they said that, considering how many trips I have already taken this year (🇹🇼 and 🇲🇾). To be honest, I do not want to travel so frequently because I need to budget for it, but when I cannot persuade my colleagues to go on a short trip, all I can do is borrow money from myself, if not, I will upset them especially they were trying to make things happen.

Packing my belongings and reflecting... Why was it difficult to reject? Because most people can take leave easily, we need someone to stay at school, particularly three of my colleagues, one of whom is responsible for administrative security in the office. So I sensed they were trying to make it work and had gotten our boss to agree on the plan, but I was not in a position to be their wet blanket.

To be honest, this was both an exciting and nerve-racking trip for me because I got to travel (by plane) with my colleagues! We had previously taken a brief trip to Johor Bahru, but this time was different. Why am I concerned? I am concerned about how it will affect our relationship because travelling has the potential to both strengthen and weaken bonds.

Failed Woodland Hike

Good Morning Blog,

I was supposed to meet a friend in the morning and then go to an afternoon event, but I discovered some work hiccups yesterday. Fortunately, I discovered it sooner rather than later, or through an audit...

I will go down to the woodland industry to fix the problem, so... why not I explore some of the woodland forest?

The reason I went exploring was because I wanted to revisit the abandoned factory, but I had heard that we could only get there through the forest.

Kuala Lumpur Day 3 and 4

Hi Blog,

Yawning, third day! Time has flown by so quickly... We were going to Kuala Lumpur today. Feeling like I have had enough of Genting, but I have not done enough...

A misty morning I wondered... Is there a sunrise in Genting?

I will miss the cool weather up here, but overall, you will enjoy Genting Highlands if you do not mind spending because the prices here are comparable to those in Singapore.

Genting Highlands Day 2

Good Morning Blog,

I awoke a few times in an unfamiliar room, but I knew I was safe; nothing strange had happened that I did not want to experience, especially since someone had shared similar experiences just before I travelled. In general, I feel safe and taken care of.

I looked out my window, and it was misty again. I realised there was no need to install an air conditioning unit because we could simply open the window slightly and enjoy the cool air.

The second day in Genting Highlands was another full day for me to explore the place, I wanted to fully utilise the day!

Genting Highlands Day 1

Good Morning Blog,

Today was the day that my elder brother had planned, invited, and paid all of my uncles and aunties to go on a big family trip together, while I tried to help him with flight, hotel, and transportation arrangements, causing a large hole in my wallet. But it was a kind thought and wish that he had since he was young.

After packing my hiking bag, I realised I looked disgustingly cute and took a selfie 🤳. Nah, I just realised that my bag is too small to hold my belongings for a four-day journey.

Speaking of his wish, we once travelled to Genting Highlands as a large family with my cousins when we were young. We had a great time having the entire bus just for our family. He sees that our uncles and aunties are getting older, and that travelling as a large group is becoming increasingly difficult these days, so he invited and treated everyone to join him on this trip; he had been discussing it with my uncles and aunties, even cousins, to set the dates for December 2023. To make a long story short, join me on this grand family adventure.

Rain and Shine

Hi Blog,

After recovering from an illness and being free this weekend, I thought to myself, "I should go for a hike."!

Looking through my new camera with a CPL filter lens, I observed that it rendered the sky in the photographs more vibrant.

I plan to keep it simple for my new "photographer" by hiking from my place to Bukit Timah, although I initially considered exploring other locations.

One Rainy Path

Good Morning Blog,

If I have a free Saturday morning, I'll go hiking to try out my new camera. However, I've been asked to stay at my sister's house to help her sort through her housing applications.

Unfortunately, Miss Sky chose to shower the earth this morning.

After checking the weather patterns, the heavy rain appeared to be concentrated over the Indonesian islands and south of Singapore. Considering this, should I proceed with a hike?? I suppose... I will resume my sleep!

Revisit Keppel

Hi Blog,

Given that I am attending Gardeners Day Out at HortPark and having lunch at Funan, I will take advantage of the pleasant weather and explore with my new camera!

Err... This weather is a bit moody, but I'm sticking to my decision!!

I plan to perform a camera test to evaluate its performance against my previous model. Moreover, I intend to introduce my new camera into my regular explorations. Today's hike will serve as an opportunity similar to an exploration I undertook in October 2023.

More Yishun Forest

Good Morning Blog,

The long weekend was rainy, so I couldn't go for a short hike. But today looks like a great opportunity! So where am I going then?

I had the pleasure of using my new camera and capturing some shots. I must say, it's a great investment! The colour and clarity are just perfect!

Today, I opted to revisit Yishun Forest, and I'm grateful that Elmo (who stays nearby) decided to join me on this little adventure.

Visit Batam

Hi Blog,

It was early morning... Yawning... As I didn't have enough sleep... Saturday morning where was I going to?

Mr Sun had not woken up yet, so where was I heading? As titled, yes! I was heading to Batam! Yippee!

As promised, I went to Batam with RD after planning it for a while. This is my second time in Batam (my first time was documented in my previous posts), and now that I'm travelling with a friend, it might be a different experience.

Serapong Unknown Ruins

Good Morning Blog,

Recently, I've observed a team of urban explorers venturing into lesser-known areas in Serapong. Two of them, including the Chasing Peaks blogger, disclosed the location 📍 to me.

I thought to myself that I would try it on my own.

However, I need more confidence to proceed alone, as my intuition advises against it. Luckily, some fellow explorers mentioned they were heading there, so I wanted to tag along to be safe.

Revisiting Labrador Nature Park

Good morning Blog,

Today was a public holiday! Yippee! 😂 The best part was that it was sunny in the morning, so we could go hiking!

Last night, my elder brother invited me to go over to his house and help him with the game he was playing, so I stayed overnight at his place.

When I woke up, I thought about going for a hike. Should I try a new place even though the ground is wet from last night's rain? Or stick to the old place?

Fort Canning Battlebox SG

Hi Blog,

As a novice in urban exploration, I plan to visit a location that would be a dream for urbex enthusiasts if not for the organized group facilitating the place.

So where am I talking about? It is at Fort Canning Battlebox.

Within Fort Canning Hill is a WWII bunker built on the hill to operate as commanding HQ during the wars. For historical reasons, it is maintained by the government rather than leaving it to rot and be forgotten.

Rainut to Chestnut

Happy Vesak Day Blog,

It has been a long time since I have shared hiking updates. Today being a public holiday, I decided to go hiking no matter what.

It seemed like... Miss Sky had other plans for this morning... But I have to hike!

But where should I hike? I decided to revisit some of the past hikes to refresh my memory there. So I picked Chestnut Nature Park. My mother expressed concern about my decision to go hiking despite it was about to rain. However, I find solace in sweating and connecting with nature to recharge. Looking out of the west-facing window, there appeared to be a storm...

Short Night Hunt

Hi Blog,

Something short and random post for today. I've been considering keeping giant millipedes as pets lately. In fact, due to many reasons, I'm considering searching for them on my own.

So I got my torches ready and decided to go for a night hike like last time with ZN (link).

Due to their nocturnal activity, giant millipedes rarely occur during daytime hikes. My personal experience has been limited to only two sightings over several years of hiking.

Tiong Bahru Air Raid Shelter

Good Morning Blog,

Today's trip was suggested by one local blogger - Chasing Peaks, HY. She knows that I will love such a trip, and credit to her if I didn't know this; I might have missed this opportunity.

So what opportunity was this?

It was Exploring Tiong Bahru hosted by Eventbrite, they have a tour to explore Tiong Bahru's history and Air Raid! Best of all, it's free!

National Museum of Natural Science

Good Morning Blog,

Looking through our Taiwan photos for these days, I told myself that I should skip today.

Had a quick breakfast and was ready to go.

Did I miss Taiwan already? Yes, I do! 😂

Taan & GaoMei Wetland

Hi Blog,

Let's continue exploring Taichung; this one was our highlight for Day 6. We had planned this before the Covid strike and today was the day to fulfil our wishlist.

To visit Geomei Wetland

They mentioned Gaomei Wetland as one of Taiwan's most scenic and tourist hot spots in social media articles. But before we went to Gaomei, I saw one more place which some other people suggested could rival Gaomei Wetland, which is Ta-an Bathing Beach 大安海水浴場.

Exploring Taichung

Good Morning Blog,

Where was I headed? As the title suggests, today's focus is on exploring Taichung, where numerous interesting places to be visited in a single day!

Today's weather seemed gloomy so we decided to go for breakfast on our own.

Let's go!

Rainbow Village

Hi Blog,

Continuing to Day 5 in Taiwan, we arrive at our final destination in our itinerary. No more stress from winding roads—just time to chill and relax.

A beautiful day suggests smooth sailing ahead.

Time to go for a simple shopping trip before we returned to Singapore.

Mu Sheng Insect Museum

Good Morning Blog,

Thinking back on our Taiwan itinerary, ours was mainly mountains and themed locations.

Today we would head out to our last city - Taichung. Goodbye, Puli for hosting us. Sadly, didn't have enough to visit most of the places here. One day, I will be back again.

So where are we heading next? Based on the title, we will be heading to a museum as it is along the way to Taichung.

2nd Time to Sun Moon Lake

Hi Blog,

After visiting Qingjing Farm and not being able to go elsewhere on the mountain... Yup... I feel that we didn't cover or fully utilize the route up there... So I needed to manage myself and learn to be content.

I have to strike a balance between my selfish needs and thoughts, and the group's expectations and limitations; all while avoiding any negative impact on the overall atmosphere. I hope I didn't spoil SJ and QH's emotions.

Okay! Next stop - Sun Moon Lake 日月潭! Based on our original itinerary, we brought forward the next day's planned location to today, to free up a slot for more places of interest.

2nd Time to QingJing Farm

Good Morning Blog,

On the fourth day of our trip, time really passed fast. Today, where will we be going? Yes, as titled, we will be going up to Qingjing.

The weather seemed promising!

Initially, we planned to stay at Qingjing and explore that place slowly... But we were discouraged due to the cold climate and risks involved... So from the look of the weather... I was not pleased, but I know it is in my best interest, and I can't afford any mishaps... So I will just manage my own expectations.

JiJi & Che Cheng Station

Hi Blog,

After visiting two themed villages, understand that having a well-defined theme for an area can significantly impact its economic growth and attract visitors.

Now we were heading to a place with a theme too

Instead of "created-theme" places, the next two will be a cultural reason that plays an important role in shaping and influencing various aspects of life, including art, literature, and social norms; like a set of collective values, beliefs, and practices that are shared by a group of people and passed down through generations.

Monster Village

Hi Blog,

After a short visit to Hinoki Village.

Next destination to the unpopular tourist area

Yes! Have you heard about Monster Village, Yao Guai Village?

Hinoki Village

Hi Blog,

Next on our itinerary will be another place which I always wanted to go to. In fact, no one will actually mention it due to unpopular options among tourists.

Hmm 🤔 even though Taiwan's world time is the same as Singapore's, on a geographical level, Taiwan is closer to the east side of Earth than Singapore. So what you are looking at is 6+ in the morning, similar to Singapore's 7+ The statement "Time is an illusion" is true.

Or on a personal level, since we were heading to our accommodation, and it was along the way, then we should visit these places as titled. Have you heard of these places before?

Alishan Park

Good Morning Blog,

Managed to wake up in time with a slight delay, so excited for today's itinerary.

Knowing we will be having a long journey up to our next destination...

It will be a long twisted road journey, prepare mentally - yes! It will be cold, so prepare my attire - yes!

Return to Serapong & Tanjong Rimau

Good morning Blog,

Recently, I saw an urbex post a few pics about her visit to Serapong, and it was a completely different location. In fact, Serapong has a lot of hidden locations which I have yet to cover. Next time, I will try to find them and put them on the map.

Today was blessed with good weather, so I arranged a visit to Serapong to find the hidden gems and meet up with Mr. Loh's group to visit Tanjong Rimau because today is also the lowest day of the month. I just hope it won't rain..

It was difficult to find a weekend to have the lowest tide during the day and fell on a weekend. Usually, the lowest tide will happen during the night, so my chance will be halved. If I want a weekend, that will be a 2/7 chance. To access there during the lowest tide, that will only happen during lunar days (2/30 days). Lastly, only under the conditions that I am available. So it is rare.

Finding Haw Par Beach Villa

Good Morning Blog,

Today's trip was an exciting one which I had been looking forward to. I read and saw picture posts by hikers of this place - Haw Paw Beach Mansion. (you can read more of it in Remember Singapore) I had been to Coney Island a few times, but I don't remember spotting any building structures, which means they are hidden from sight.

Today's weather seemed promising. Why did I say that? Because from the past photos of the hikers, they will have muddy shoes for sure. I hope that if we really find it, the dry weather will reduce the chance. I hate mud.

But first, whether I can find it or not... That's one of the most important factors. Let's go!

Embracing My Imperfections

Hi Blog,

Today I decided to go for a short hike, a small me-time moment to do some reflection.

Today's weather was rather good and welcoming. Let's go hiking!

I've been doing some thinking lately, and I decided to write a not-unfamiliar content (even though my readers had already known and become numb with my nonsense). You may skip it if it isn't interesting.

Kangkar Pulai Blue Lake

Good Morning Blog,

Speaking of a new year and a new start, today I will be exploring a new place. As titled, yes, I was heading to Malaysia for a hike!

I had to wake up early to prepare myself. Tiring...

To beat the traffic jam at the customs, we needed to be early, especially at weekends. So where are we heading today? Today's hike was introduced by LZ, she asked me to go for the hike because she needed someone familiar to hike with. I guessed that I would give this a try.