We got early in the morning, had some magi cut noodles, and started for Airport for our flight back to Dehi. By MRT it took approx 60 mins to reach airport from Chinatown.
Our Air India flight to Delhi boarded on time and we started at 10:30 and landed at Delhi airport around 1:30
Weather in delhi was not hot for a change but the sky seemed hazy and dusty, perhaps I will take a while to be habitual again :)
Till next time, Adios
Friday, November 27, 2009
Singapore, Day 6: (15/11/09) (Day 17/18)
We landed at Singapore around 5:30 PM and headed to Chinatown in search of hotel. We settled for a hotel close to MRT station for 70$ per night. We took shower and headed for food and shopping around 7:00. Chinatown market was quiet big and we shopped till 10:00 PM.
At the end, we enjoyed fried rice and fired noodles with fresh coconut water and walked back to hotel.
This was last night in our trip :(
At the end, we enjoyed fried rice and fired noodles with fresh coconut water and walked back to hotel.
This was last night in our trip :(
KK, Malaysia Day 3: (15/11/09) (Day 17/18)
Next day, after breakfast, we took a ferry to Tunku Abdul Rahman Park Islands. We enjoyed the waves for a while, relaxed on the beach for while.
Water was so clean at the beach, that one can easily sopt fishes.
Around 12:30, we headed back to KK city by speed boat. The ride was bumpy and we enjoyed it.
We reached hotel, packed our luggage, and drove to the airport.
On Airport, we returned our car, boarded the flight to Singapore. We were feeling so so as our trip was coming to an end.
Water was so clean at the beach, that one can easily sopt fishes.
Around 12:30, we headed back to KK city by speed boat. The ride was bumpy and we enjoyed it.
We reached hotel, packed our luggage, and drove to the airport.
On Airport, we returned our car, boarded the flight to Singapore. We were feeling so so as our trip was coming to an end.
KK, Malaysia Day 2: (14/11/2009) (Day 16/18)
Next day, following awesome continental breakfast, we headed out for car rental. We closed a deal with Hawk Rental Company (http://www.hawkrentacar.com/) for 160 RM for remaining duration.
Immediate after renting the car, we headed for Mount Kinabalu Park, approx 3 hours drive. We stopped in between for snacks, shopping and view to Mt Kinabalu.
The park is a the base for the people who wish to climb Mt Kinabalu. I wish I had enough time for it. We drive in park and came back and headed to Kundasang War Memorial (http://www.kinabaluweb.com/kundasangmemorial.html).
A must-visit in Kundasang is the Kundasang War Memorial. Established in 1962, this was one of the first memorials to commemorate the brave Australian and British Prisoners of War who died in Sandakan and during the infamous death marches to Ranau during World War II. The memorial also remembers the people of North Borneo who risked their lives to help the POWs.
The Memorial is made up of four beautiful gardens - the Australian Garden, the English Garden, the Borneo Garden and the Contemplation Garden and Pool - to represent the different nationalities
After memorial, we headed back to Kota Kinabalu, and it started raining heavily again during our drive back, which slowed our speed quiet a bit. We reached KK city around 8:00 PM. We had dinner and called it a day, with a feeling that 1 day is not sufficient in KK.
Immediate after renting the car, we headed for Mount Kinabalu Park, approx 3 hours drive. We stopped in between for snacks, shopping and view to Mt Kinabalu.
The park is a the base for the people who wish to climb Mt Kinabalu. I wish I had enough time for it. We drive in park and came back and headed to Kundasang War Memorial (http://www.kinabaluweb.com/kundasangmemorial.html).
A must-visit in Kundasang is the Kundasang War Memorial. Established in 1962, this was one of the first memorials to commemorate the brave Australian and British Prisoners of War who died in Sandakan and during the infamous death marches to Ranau during World War II. The memorial also remembers the people of North Borneo who risked their lives to help the POWs.
The Memorial is made up of four beautiful gardens - the Australian Garden, the English Garden, the Borneo Garden and the Contemplation Garden and Pool - to represent the different nationalities
After memorial, we headed back to Kota Kinabalu, and it started raining heavily again during our drive back, which slowed our speed quiet a bit. We reached KK city around 8:00 PM. We had dinner and called it a day, with a feeling that 1 day is not sufficient in KK.
KK, Malaysia Day 1: (13/11/09) (Day 15/18)
We touched Kuala Lampur at 1:10 PM. I wished if would have booked 3.00 PM flight to Kota Kinabalu. Unfortunately I booked 5:00 PM flight to KK due to bad reputation of Air Asia regarding on time performance.
Our flight to KK got further delayed by 1 hour and we spent close to 5 hours at KL LCC airport, trying to relax
We boarded our flight at 6:00 PM and landed at KK airport around 8:30
We were confuse about renting a car from Airport as rates were quiet high, it was 200 RM per day compared to 100 RM of Langkawi.
We took a taxi to Hyatt Kota Kinabalu for 30 RM which was only 15 mins drive (approx 8-10 kms)
We checked into to hotel pretty late, but we got there luxury suit, upgrade from king room. The suit was awesome, it had 3 rooms, 2 bothrooms, separate luggage room, separate dress room and best view of sea and pool.
We relaxed for a while and then headed out for dinner. Roamed around for a while and then called it a day.
Our flight to KK got further delayed by 1 hour and we spent close to 5 hours at KL LCC airport, trying to relax
We boarded our flight at 6:00 PM and landed at KK airport around 8:30
We were confuse about renting a car from Airport as rates were quiet high, it was 200 RM per day compared to 100 RM of Langkawi.
We took a taxi to Hyatt Kota Kinabalu for 30 RM which was only 15 mins drive (approx 8-10 kms)
We checked into to hotel pretty late, but we got there luxury suit, upgrade from king room. The suit was awesome, it had 3 rooms, 2 bothrooms, separate luggage room, separate dress room and best view of sea and pool.
We relaxed for a while and then headed out for dinner. Roamed around for a while and then called it a day.
Lankawi, Malaysia, Day 3: (13/11/09) (Day 15/18)
Next morning, we got up early, had breakfast, packed our bags, and drove to Telaga Tujuh Waterfall. It was early in the morning, around 10:00 and we were the only one at the waterfall, better.We enjoyed the natural shower for a while and relaxed in the fresh water. Around 10:30 we started for Airport. On the airport, we handed over the car back and cleared security check. The flight to Kuala Lampur was on time and it was time to say “See You Again Langkawi”.
Lankawi, Malaysia, Day 2: (12/11/09) (Day 14/18)
We really liked the breakfast selection at Awana. Whenever I am back to Langkawi, I am going to stay again at Awana.
We headed out for cable car at 10:00. It was 30 mins drive from our hotel. By the time we reached the Oriental Village, it seems the sun got stronger. It is highly recommended to carry sun-glassed, sun-screen, hat and umbrella. Each gondola can fit 6 person. The cable car brought us straight to the top of Mat Cincang mountain after 15 mins beautiful ride. The view was awesome from the platform on top of the mountain. If you are lucky, you may found yourself in clouds for few mins.
There is a sky bridge down from the platform where gondola stops. Do not go down if you have difficulty climbing up more than 100 stairs.
Back to oriental village, we tried Segway eco ride (http://www.segway.com/), it was fun. The Segway is a two-wheeled, self-balancing electric vehicle invented by Dean Kamen.
After the joy segway ride, we drove to the Telaga Tujuh Waterfall. First Waterfall is approx 20 mins steep walk from car park. We heard the first waterfall is better than second, hence we did not bother to visit other one, for which you have to climb up further.
We rested for while and came back, with the plan that we will come with towel next time to enjoy waterfall.
We headed to crocodile form from there which was 20 mins drive, could not find anything impressive, however feeding session to crocodiles was good.
After park, we headed towards black sand beach. Not sure why it is called black sand beach. Sand was dark but nor black I would say. We rested for a while and started our journey again. Target was to reach eagle square before sun-set and we did.
We enjoyed sun-set at Eagle Square Park and headed to the shopping centre and brought few souvenirs from there.
After sun-set we drove back to Kuah town, it was drizzling. We roamed for a while but then it started heavily. We got inside a restaurant and had dinner. Then we started driving back to Hotel. Heavy rain continued for approx next 3 hours while we were enjoying live bank at Awana.
We headed out for cable car at 10:00. It was 30 mins drive from our hotel. By the time we reached the Oriental Village, it seems the sun got stronger. It is highly recommended to carry sun-glassed, sun-screen, hat and umbrella. Each gondola can fit 6 person. The cable car brought us straight to the top of Mat Cincang mountain after 15 mins beautiful ride. The view was awesome from the platform on top of the mountain. If you are lucky, you may found yourself in clouds for few mins.
There is a sky bridge down from the platform where gondola stops. Do not go down if you have difficulty climbing up more than 100 stairs.
Back to oriental village, we tried Segway eco ride (http://www.segway.com/), it was fun. The Segway is a two-wheeled, self-balancing electric vehicle invented by Dean Kamen.
After the joy segway ride, we drove to the Telaga Tujuh Waterfall. First Waterfall is approx 20 mins steep walk from car park. We heard the first waterfall is better than second, hence we did not bother to visit other one, for which you have to climb up further.
We rested for while and came back, with the plan that we will come with towel next time to enjoy waterfall.
We headed to crocodile form from there which was 20 mins drive, could not find anything impressive, however feeding session to crocodiles was good.
After park, we headed towards black sand beach. Not sure why it is called black sand beach. Sand was dark but nor black I would say. We rested for a while and started our journey again. Target was to reach eagle square before sun-set and we did.
We enjoyed sun-set at Eagle Square Park and headed to the shopping centre and brought few souvenirs from there.
After sun-set we drove back to Kuah town, it was drizzling. We roamed for a while but then it started heavily. We got inside a restaurant and had dinner. Then we started driving back to Hotel. Heavy rain continued for approx next 3 hours while we were enjoying live bank at Awana.
Lankawi, Malaysia, Day 1: (11/11/09) (Day 13/18)
We took bus from KL Sentral for LCCT terminal.
All Air Asia flights operate from LCCT terminal. Ensure you are heading to the terminal from where your flight will depart. For veggies, vegetable burger is a good option at LCC entrance (forgot the rest name, it is in front of Mc’D).
Our Air Asia flight got delayed by 1 hour, due to unavailability of aircraft, Isn’t it strange? Finally our aircraft arrived, passengers alighted and we boarded around 2:00 PM. In case you are travelling in a group, it is advisable to pre-reserve your seat as you may not get seat together. We reached Langkawi island at 3.10pm.
The cluster of islands (Lankawi = 99 island in the sun) looked so beautiful from the sky. The weather is hot and humid, as expected. Lots of you will be delighted to know that Langkawi is a duty free island, i.e. beer and water will cost you same J Drink responsibly :)
Langkawi has small airport. After customs, we rented a car for two day, 100 RM per day + 50 security deposit. It was Nissan with auto transmission (just 1600 Km’s). Negotiage with 2-3 vendors for best rate.
Few things about car rental: It is easy to drive, Langawi practices right hand drive. There is no comprehensive insurance. They have co-pay system where any damage till 2000 RM needs to be bourn by renter and add on by insurance company. Review insurance paper to ensure everything is in place. Also they will give empty tank and expect empty tank. So fill as much as you need. We filled tank but used only half.
After renting the car, we headed to gas station and filled tank. On the way to hotel, we stopped at Laman Padi, Underwater World & Cenang Beach. Sunset was great at Cenang Beach. You can shop around Cenang Beach, as there are lots of shops and restaurants around. After sunset, we headed towards our hotel - Awana Porto Malai.
It was a beautiful hotel. Live music was being played by a local band when we checked in. After relaxing for while, we drove back to population, had dinner in a restaurant British Raj and had few drinks at famous bar: Babylon, close to Cenang Beach and called it a day.
Babylon: If you’re not the one who loves loud music and crowded places, you can try Babylon Mat Lounge, it’s more or less like a reggae bar. Run by people who look like they might have ended up as real-estate agents today if Bob Marley had not entered their lives. Cool one! There is a live jam nightly with musicians on guitar and conga drums. Situated on the Cenang Beach itself, it’s a great place as you can have a good time with your friends, listening to music by the live band and the waves from the beach. It’s very relaxing, I can even sleep there anytime, with the beach breeze running through my hair. It’s very relaxing!
All Air Asia flights operate from LCCT terminal. Ensure you are heading to the terminal from where your flight will depart. For veggies, vegetable burger is a good option at LCC entrance (forgot the rest name, it is in front of Mc’D).
Our Air Asia flight got delayed by 1 hour, due to unavailability of aircraft, Isn’t it strange? Finally our aircraft arrived, passengers alighted and we boarded around 2:00 PM. In case you are travelling in a group, it is advisable to pre-reserve your seat as you may not get seat together. We reached Langkawi island at 3.10pm.
The cluster of islands (Lankawi = 99 island in the sun) looked so beautiful from the sky. The weather is hot and humid, as expected. Lots of you will be delighted to know that Langkawi is a duty free island, i.e. beer and water will cost you same J Drink responsibly :)
Langkawi has small airport. After customs, we rented a car for two day, 100 RM per day + 50 security deposit. It was Nissan with auto transmission (just 1600 Km’s). Negotiage with 2-3 vendors for best rate.
Few things about car rental: It is easy to drive, Langawi practices right hand drive. There is no comprehensive insurance. They have co-pay system where any damage till 2000 RM needs to be bourn by renter and add on by insurance company. Review insurance paper to ensure everything is in place. Also they will give empty tank and expect empty tank. So fill as much as you need. We filled tank but used only half.
After renting the car, we headed to gas station and filled tank. On the way to hotel, we stopped at Laman Padi, Underwater World & Cenang Beach. Sunset was great at Cenang Beach. You can shop around Cenang Beach, as there are lots of shops and restaurants around. After sunset, we headed towards our hotel - Awana Porto Malai.
It was a beautiful hotel. Live music was being played by a local band when we checked in. After relaxing for while, we drove back to population, had dinner in a restaurant British Raj and had few drinks at famous bar: Babylon, close to Cenang Beach and called it a day.
Babylon: If you’re not the one who loves loud music and crowded places, you can try Babylon Mat Lounge, it’s more or less like a reggae bar. Run by people who look like they might have ended up as real-estate agents today if Bob Marley had not entered their lives. Cool one! There is a live jam nightly with musicians on guitar and conga drums. Situated on the Cenang Beach itself, it’s a great place as you can have a good time with your friends, listening to music by the live band and the waves from the beach. It’s very relaxing, I can even sleep there anytime, with the beach breeze running through my hair. It’s very relaxing!
Genting, Malaysia, Day 1: (10/11/09 (Day 12/18)
The experience at Genting Highland was amazing. It’s a good place for gamblers, children’s & people seeking some adventure. It has more than 30 indoor & outdoor rides, casinos, good hotels, shops etc. The fun never stops here, till 2:00 AM we witnessed it.
There are two ways to reach Genting highland from base, via road or via cable car. We took bus from KL Central till base and then cable car (Bus fare included cable car fee as well)
Cable car was fast and some time scary too. Total time taken to reach Genting Highlands was around 75 min from KL Central to Genting Highland base & approx 15 min from base to Genting Highland via cable car. We started at 11:00 from KL & reached at 1:00 at hotel.
It will be quiet a walk to hotel from the place where you will alight from cable car, depending on hotel you choose. If you have lots of luggage, take taxi from base of Genting Highland to Hotel. Lighter you travel, better you will be :)
We stayed at hotel "Theme Park", which is a decent place to stay. We choose this as this hotel has fastest check in as per reviews on internet and we wanted to save time, where ever possible as we had just one day.
After little refreshment we headed towards theme park. The ticket was of 50 RM per head which included most of the indoor & out door rides.
We tried many exclusive exciting outdoor rides like flying dragon, super tobaggan, cyclone, rolling thunder mine train, corkscrew & flying coaster( additional charge 35 RM per head) & in door ride Sky venture & boating.
Indoor Park also has a 3D setup, but it was not as good as 3D log ride in Sentosa, Singapore.
At the end, we headed for dinner in a restaurant “Spices of India”, I think the only Indian vegetation restaurant in Genting Highlands. The food was delicious. One dish will server two, unless you are dieing of hunger.
We spend some time browsing shops and casinos, following dinner.
Next day again we followed the similar but reversed route to reach KL Sentral.
Suggestion: - Must do sky venture unless you are back problems & must go via cable car. One day is generally good enough to enjoy Genting Highland, subject to your arrival time and weather.
KL, Malaysia, Day 3: (09/11/09) (Day 11/18)
Weather on day 3 was not favourable for us. After having our breakfast in morning we went to one of the famous shopping mall of KL "SOGO".WE did little shopping there
7 then headed towards "National Museum" The museum was pretty good. Museum showcases journey from past to present very well.
After museum we had a plan of visiting china market & Little India but we had to cancel out the same as it starts raining heavily so we came back to our hotel after dinner. Do carry umbrella, as weather is really unpredictable here.
Also in case you are planning a trip for Genting Highlands, make sure you reserve seats a day before else you may not be able to board bus before 12.
7 then headed towards "National Museum" The museum was pretty good. Museum showcases journey from past to present very well.
After museum we had a plan of visiting china market & Little India but we had to cancel out the same as it starts raining heavily so we came back to our hotel after dinner. Do carry umbrella, as weather is really unpredictable here.
Also in case you are planning a trip for Genting Highlands, make sure you reserve seats a day before else you may not be able to board bus before 12.
KL, Malaysia, Day 2: (08/11/09) (Day 10/18)
On Day 2 (Sunday), we started our day with trip to Batu Caves. We took a taxi to Batu Caves, which was approx 30 mins from Tune Hotel, Sultan Ismail.
A giant idol of lord Shiva is situated in front of batu cave, which was splendid. We have to climb 272 stairs to reach on the top, where we had temples, lots of monkeys.
After BATU cave, we started for Patron Tower by BUS. On the way to Patron towers, we spend some time in KL Sunday festival. There were lots of shop, selling hand made souvenirs.
We could not go inside Patron towers, as all the ticket for given day was exhausted. if you happen to visit and interested in going up, get to Patron towers early in the morning for tickets. They have approx 1700 odd tickets daily, free on first cum first serve basis.
After Patron Towers, we headed for KL tower. KL tower has ticker (approx 35RM per person) to go up. That also covers entry to animal world, horse ride (below 60 Kg) and F1 Simulator.
Animal world has lots of snake; snake world is perhaps a better name for this.
Patron Towers are clearly visible from KL tower platform. We did some shopping from the shops located in platform.
Then we headed to little India and china town for shopping. These are good place to shop around, do not forget to bargain.
Grand dinner and sound sleep followed this tiring shopping session.
A giant idol of lord Shiva is situated in front of batu cave, which was splendid. We have to climb 272 stairs to reach on the top, where we had temples, lots of monkeys.
After BATU cave, we started for Patron Tower by BUS. On the way to Patron towers, we spend some time in KL Sunday festival. There were lots of shop, selling hand made souvenirs.
We could not go inside Patron towers, as all the ticket for given day was exhausted. if you happen to visit and interested in going up, get to Patron towers early in the morning for tickets. They have approx 1700 odd tickets daily, free on first cum first serve basis.
After Patron Towers, we headed for KL tower. KL tower has ticker (approx 35RM per person) to go up. That also covers entry to animal world, horse ride (below 60 Kg) and F1 Simulator.
Animal world has lots of snake; snake world is perhaps a better name for this.
Patron Towers are clearly visible from KL tower platform. We did some shopping from the shops located in platform.
Then we headed to little India and china town for shopping. These are good place to shop around, do not forget to bargain.
Grand dinner and sound sleep followed this tiring shopping session.
KL, Malaysia, Day 1: (07/11/09) (Day 9/18)
We landed at Kuala Lampur LCC airport around 5:10 PM.
After immigration and customs, we boarded but to KL central which took approx 70 mins.
From KL central, we took Putra line to MASJID JAMEK, from where we changed to Star Line for Sultan Ismail
It was quiet a bit of hassle to take public transport with so much luggage, but we manages somehow.
We checked into tune hotel , famous for cozy beds.
After relaxing for a while, we headed out to little India for dinner. We had masala dosa and roti-dal for a change and then we roamed around for a while.
We were tired, & came back to hotel by 9:30 PM.
After immigration and customs, we boarded but to KL central which took approx 70 mins.
From KL central, we took Putra line to MASJID JAMEK, from where we changed to Star Line for Sultan Ismail
It was quiet a bit of hassle to take public transport with so much luggage, but we manages somehow.
We checked into tune hotel , famous for cozy beds.
After relaxing for a while, we headed out to little India for dinner. We had masala dosa and roti-dal for a change and then we roamed around for a while.
We were tired, & came back to hotel by 9:30 PM.
Thursday, November 26, 2009
Bali Day 5: (07 Nov 2009) (Day 9 of 18)
Next day, we got up, had breakfast, enjoyed spa, packed our bags, checked out from hotel and headed for Uluwatu around 11:00 AM.
Uluwatu means " the head of stone", one of the most spectacular Hindu temple along the coast line built by a high Hindu priest from East Java named Dang Hyang Dwijendra in the 16th century. This beautiful temple is located on top of a stiff limestone cliff about 90 meters above the Indian Ocean. This place is great to visit for having fun with the monkeys living around the temple and watching sunset.
It was very hot and humid, we quickly finished the temple, enjoyed beautiful sea view for a while and started for Airport around 12:30 PM
We had Air Asia International flight at 3:00 PM and we somehow managed to reach airport at 2:00 PM due to heavy traffic on the way.
We paid 2,00,000 Rupiah to our driver for Uluwatu and Airport drop and rushed to catch our flight with lots of good memories......
Uluwatu means " the head of stone", one of the most spectacular Hindu temple along the coast line built by a high Hindu priest from East Java named Dang Hyang Dwijendra in the 16th century. This beautiful temple is located on top of a stiff limestone cliff about 90 meters above the Indian Ocean. This place is great to visit for having fun with the monkeys living around the temple and watching sunset.
It was very hot and humid, we quickly finished the temple, enjoyed beautiful sea view for a while and started for Airport around 12:30 PM
We had Air Asia International flight at 3:00 PM and we somehow managed to reach airport at 2:00 PM due to heavy traffic on the way.
We paid 2,00,000 Rupiah to our driver for Uluwatu and Airport drop and rushed to catch our flight with lots of good memories......
Bali Day 4: (06 Nov 2009) (Day 8 of 18)
Next day morning, I got up early for sun-rise again and collected some sea shells, with others. I also got to catch a snake, star fish which I left in hotel water body, later.
After breakfast, we started from the hotel around 08.40 am to Kesiman Village watching one of the most famous Balinese Dance "BARONG"
After dance, we headed to Nasa Dua for water sport.
After some negotiation, we agreed for 160 US $ for diving, fish fly, parasailing, banana boat for both of us.
We enjoyed water sports for next 3 hours.
After relaxing for a while, we headed for old meditation cave " GOA GAJAH " found in eleventh century. The area around the cave is considered the oldest Buddhist site with some old remains found around the place. A Hindu Temple was built there with special holy spring fountains.
After Goa Gajah, we spent some time in Rice paddy fields; it was a great view from the road.
After rice paddy field, we stopped in local market to buy some souvenirs like wooded crafts, some junk jewellery, wind chime etc
After shopping, we headed straight towards temple “Tanah Lot” for sun-set.
Tanah Lot means " the land of ocean " is a wonderful Hindu Temple built on a piece of cliff in Indian Ocean shore. This temple is dedicated to the God of Ocean " Baruna " built by a high Hindu Priest name Dang Hyang Dwijendra in the 16th century. In high tide, the cliff is surrounded by water that the temple is like floating. In the bottom part of the cliff there is a fresh water holy spring while on the beach cave there are some holy snakes that guard the temple. In the South and North part of the temple is absolutely beautiful view and best for watching sunset.
Our guide dropped us at Le Méridien Nirwana Golf & Spa Resort.
It was a great hotel with beautiful cliff overlooking sea short, well maintained park and perfect spot to enjoy sun-set.
We had some snacks and enjoyed sun-set at Tanah Lot. It was best sunset we have seen so far together.
After sun-set, we went down to Tanah Lot temple, which was closed. We walked around beautiful shore line for a while and then headed back to Le Meridien entrance where our tour guide was waiting.
After seeing sun-set, we headed towards Spa named Toya Toya, where we had reservation at 8:00 PM.
After 3 hours relaxing massage, we reached hotel around 11:00 PM, what a great day. Isn’t it?
After breakfast, we started from the hotel around 08.40 am to Kesiman Village watching one of the most famous Balinese Dance "BARONG"
After dance, we headed to Nasa Dua for water sport.
After some negotiation, we agreed for 160 US $ for diving, fish fly, parasailing, banana boat for both of us.
We enjoyed water sports for next 3 hours.
After relaxing for a while, we headed for old meditation cave " GOA GAJAH " found in eleventh century. The area around the cave is considered the oldest Buddhist site with some old remains found around the place. A Hindu Temple was built there with special holy spring fountains.
After Goa Gajah, we spent some time in Rice paddy fields; it was a great view from the road.
After rice paddy field, we stopped in local market to buy some souvenirs like wooded crafts, some junk jewellery, wind chime etc
After shopping, we headed straight towards temple “Tanah Lot” for sun-set.
Tanah Lot means " the land of ocean " is a wonderful Hindu Temple built on a piece of cliff in Indian Ocean shore. This temple is dedicated to the God of Ocean " Baruna " built by a high Hindu Priest name Dang Hyang Dwijendra in the 16th century. In high tide, the cliff is surrounded by water that the temple is like floating. In the bottom part of the cliff there is a fresh water holy spring while on the beach cave there are some holy snakes that guard the temple. In the South and North part of the temple is absolutely beautiful view and best for watching sunset.
Our guide dropped us at Le Méridien Nirwana Golf & Spa Resort.
It was a great hotel with beautiful cliff overlooking sea short, well maintained park and perfect spot to enjoy sun-set.
We had some snacks and enjoyed sun-set at Tanah Lot. It was best sunset we have seen so far together.
After sun-set, we went down to Tanah Lot temple, which was closed. We walked around beautiful shore line for a while and then headed back to Le Meridien entrance where our tour guide was waiting.
After seeing sun-set, we headed towards Spa named Toya Toya, where we had reservation at 8:00 PM.
After 3 hours relaxing massage, we reached hotel around 11:00 PM, what a great day. Isn’t it?
Bali Day 3: (05 Nov 2009) (Day 7 of 18)
Next day, we again enjoyed sun-rise before heading out for breakfast. After breakfast, we got into the car for our Bali site-seeing. Merdy was driving the car. We headed towards 1717 meters volcano called " MOUNT BATUR " surrounded by lake and black lava remains from its twice main eruptions in 1917 and 1927.
On the way, we stopped at Batik factory, the gold and silver villages in Celuk, woodcarving in Mas and painting in Batuan. We bought something from each of these places, though they were pretty expensive.
While billing at one of the shop, I noticed that they are also taking a note of the person who brought tourists at their shop, possibly for heavy commission
We tried rice & vegetable curry at one of local restaurant, and that was tasty.
We reached Mt Batur around 5:00 PM, spent quiet some time there and then headed back to Hotel. On the way back we saw Ubud area and rice paddy fields.
At last we saw, fire dance by local people where one person sat on fire without getting burnt. Local believe that the person posses divine power which protects him.
We reached hotel around 9:00 PM, and had a coffee at Regency Club and roamed for a while on sea shore and called it a day.
On the way, we stopped at Batik factory, the gold and silver villages in Celuk, woodcarving in Mas and painting in Batuan. We bought something from each of these places, though they were pretty expensive.
While billing at one of the shop, I noticed that they are also taking a note of the person who brought tourists at their shop, possibly for heavy commission
We tried rice & vegetable curry at one of local restaurant, and that was tasty.
We reached Mt Batur around 5:00 PM, spent quiet some time there and then headed back to Hotel. On the way back we saw Ubud area and rice paddy fields.
At last we saw, fire dance by local people where one person sat on fire without getting burnt. Local believe that the person posses divine power which protects him.
We reached hotel around 9:00 PM, and had a coffee at Regency Club and roamed for a while on sea shore and called it a day.
Bali Day 2: (04 Nov 2009) (Day 6 of 18)
Next day, we got up quiet early to enjoy sun-rise. It was really beautiful watching sun unfold slowly.
After enjoying sun-rise, we headed to Regency Club for breakfast. We really liked the egg omelettes the chef made for us.
Following breakfast, we spend 2-3 hours on beach and then headed to Spa.
After enjoying Spa, we checked out and boarded free shuttle from Bali Hyatt to Grand Hyatt Bali, Nasa Dua.
We checked into Grand Hyatt Bali around 2:15.
Grand Hyatt Bali entrance/reception boasts of a grand sea view. We were excited to be close to beach again.
We relaxed for rest of our day in Hotel.
We went to sea shore but the water was quiet away from shore. The sun was highest and strongest in the sky and we both got tanned, at least 5 shade darker :(
We spent evening at the hotel swimming pool, following with complementary drinks and snack at the social event
We also planned for remaining two days in Bali, got a tour operator named Merdy. He sounded nice and we met at hotel lobby in the evening to close on plan for next day and day after. We agreed for 3,250,00 Rupiah per day (=1625 INR per day).
After enjoying sun-rise, we headed to Regency Club for breakfast. We really liked the egg omelettes the chef made for us.
Following breakfast, we spend 2-3 hours on beach and then headed to Spa.
After enjoying Spa, we checked out and boarded free shuttle from Bali Hyatt to Grand Hyatt Bali, Nasa Dua.
We checked into Grand Hyatt Bali around 2:15.
Grand Hyatt Bali entrance/reception boasts of a grand sea view. We were excited to be close to beach again.
We relaxed for rest of our day in Hotel.
We went to sea shore but the water was quiet away from shore. The sun was highest and strongest in the sky and we both got tanned, at least 5 shade darker :(
We spent evening at the hotel swimming pool, following with complementary drinks and snack at the social event
We also planned for remaining two days in Bali, got a tour operator named Merdy. He sounded nice and we met at hotel lobby in the evening to close on plan for next day and day after. We agreed for 3,250,00 Rupiah per day (=1625 INR per day).
Bali Day 1: (03 Nov 2009) (Day 5 of 18)
We laded at Denpasar Airport, Bali around 3:00 PM.
After landing we got on the arrival visa for 10$ or 20$ per person. Rate differs if you are coming to Bali for <1>1 week.
It will be easy if you are carrying US Dollars with you for on the arrival visa fee.
After visa stamping and immigration, we tried to crack a deal with local car rental company for self drive. Fortunately I did not close to deal.
Took a taxi for 1,00,000 Rupiah and reached Bali Hyatt, Sanur
We got a warm welcome, with garlands, welcome music and drinks.
There was a special desk for Gold Passport Diamond member check-in and assistant manager on duty took care of all check-in formalities.
Following check-in, we were guided to our sea view room with large terrace.
The view was awesome from the room.
We relaxed for a while in room and then thought of browsing hotel, as it was quiet big.
We spent our evening in the swimming pool, and browsing hotel. I was impressed with the way they maintained it.
Hotel also has facility to rent bi-cycle and there was track on sea-shore for cycling/walking.
We had dinner in near by Indian restaurant, my wife was quiet happy on the idea of trying good Indian food after so many days.
Then we headed back to Hotel, relaxed on the room terrace for some time, the wind was cool enough and we can hear sound of waves.
After landing we got on the arrival visa for 10$ or 20$ per person. Rate differs if you are coming to Bali for <1>1 week.
It will be easy if you are carrying US Dollars with you for on the arrival visa fee.
After visa stamping and immigration, we tried to crack a deal with local car rental company for self drive. Fortunately I did not close to deal.
Took a taxi for 1,00,000 Rupiah and reached Bali Hyatt, Sanur
We got a warm welcome, with garlands, welcome music and drinks.
There was a special desk for Gold Passport Diamond member check-in and assistant manager on duty took care of all check-in formalities.
Following check-in, we were guided to our sea view room with large terrace.
The view was awesome from the room.
We relaxed for a while in room and then thought of browsing hotel, as it was quiet big.
We spent our evening in the swimming pool, and browsing hotel. I was impressed with the way they maintained it.
Hotel also has facility to rent bi-cycle and there was track on sea-shore for cycling/walking.
We had dinner in near by Indian restaurant, my wife was quiet happy on the idea of trying good Indian food after so many days.
Then we headed back to Hotel, relaxed on the room terrace for some time, the wind was cool enough and we can hear sound of waves.
Singapore Day 5: (03 Nov 2009) (Day 5 of 18)
We got up and headed to Airport for Bali.
Note: For shopping of Souvenirs and other items, chinatown, little India and bugis village is recommended. Feel free to bargain to get best price.
Happy Shopping
Singapore Day 4: (02 Nov 2009) (Day 4 of 18)
We were planning to cover Joo and night safari today.
We relaxed at the hotel, checked out at 1:00 PM and checked into Tune hotel.
We took taxi to Zoo from hotel, as we were getting late. We reached zoo at 2:30 PM and could manage only two shows. Try to be there so that you can catch all the shows. The park closes at 6:00 but you can roam in the park till 7:00.
At 7:00, we came out of park and entered into night safari park which opens at 7:00 PM.
We took a walk on Mangroove trail (around 30 mins) and came back to see fire performance at the entrance.
Keep your tickets as you need it while re-entering the park after fire show. After fire show, we went for creatures of the night show first, it was great.
Finally we took a tram, which circled Entire Park to showcase wildlife after hours.We had dinner at the park and took bus back to hotel.
We relaxed at the hotel, checked out at 1:00 PM and checked into Tune hotel.
We took taxi to Zoo from hotel, as we were getting late. We reached zoo at 2:30 PM and could manage only two shows. Try to be there so that you can catch all the shows. The park closes at 6:00 but you can roam in the park till 7:00.
At 7:00, we came out of park and entered into night safari park which opens at 7:00 PM.
We took a walk on Mangroove trail (around 30 mins) and came back to see fire performance at the entrance.
Keep your tickets as you need it while re-entering the park after fire show. After fire show, we went for creatures of the night show first, it was great.
Finally we took a tram, which circled Entire Park to showcase wildlife after hours.We had dinner at the park and took bus back to hotel.
Singapore Day 3: (01 Nov 2009) (Day 3 of 18)
We dedicated this day to Jurong bird park.
We took MRT till Boon Lay station, following by bus no 251. Bus ticket can be purchased while boarding the bus, ensure you have change to pay (unless you are carrying tourist pass)
We bought park hopper ticker at Jurong bird park, which covered Bird Park, Zoo and Night Safari entrance. Make sure you are taking utmost care of park hopper ticker as same ticker will be used for three attractions (we lost one in Jurong Bird Park L).
We enjoyed browsing the park by train, then on foot. Plan you way, so as to attend most of the shows. We liked all the shows in the park.
This park closes around 6:00 PM, you can walk for 20-30 mins if you want to.
We headed to hotel, relaxed for remaining day.
We took MRT till Boon Lay station, following by bus no 251. Bus ticket can be purchased while boarding the bus, ensure you have change to pay (unless you are carrying tourist pass)
We bought park hopper ticker at Jurong bird park, which covered Bird Park, Zoo and Night Safari entrance. Make sure you are taking utmost care of park hopper ticker as same ticker will be used for three attractions (we lost one in Jurong Bird Park L).
We enjoyed browsing the park by train, then on foot. Plan you way, so as to attend most of the shows. We liked all the shows in the park.
This park closes around 6:00 PM, you can walk for 20-30 mins if you want to.
We headed to hotel, relaxed for remaining day.
Singapore Day 2: (31 Oct 2009) (Day 2 of 18)
Following grand continental breakfast at Hotel, we headed towards Sentosa, were we were planning to spend rest of our day, and at the end of the day we felt one day is less to appreciate this little island
We took MRT till HarbourFront and then Sentosa express to get inside the island. You can alternatively take bus, as we spend quiet a bit time in queue to get ticket.
Some of the key attractions where we really enjoyed were 4D Magix, CineBlast, Sentosa Luge, Sky Tower, Images of Singapore, The Merlion and last but not least “Song of the Sea”. Do not forget to carry umbrella, as weather is really unpredictable here.
We got heavy rain during Song of the sea show, fortunately show continued.
Use island map to plan you day, to avoid unnecessary loops.
We could not visit Dolphin Lagoon, ticket price of which is included in underwater world entry ticker, as it closed at 5:00 PM. Hence plan your day keeping closing time in mind. Some of the sea and Sky tower are recommended as late as possible.
After tiring day, we headed to Hotel Spa.
After Spa, we headed to Little India for dinner. You will find lots of Indian shops, restaurants here. Ensure you are dressed appropriately, unless you want to be start of everyone’s eye :)
We took MRT till HarbourFront and then Sentosa express to get inside the island. You can alternatively take bus, as we spend quiet a bit time in queue to get ticket.
Some of the key attractions where we really enjoyed were 4D Magix, CineBlast, Sentosa Luge, Sky Tower, Images of Singapore, The Merlion and last but not least “Song of the Sea”. Do not forget to carry umbrella, as weather is really unpredictable here.
We got heavy rain during Song of the sea show, fortunately show continued.
Use island map to plan you day, to avoid unnecessary loops.
We could not visit Dolphin Lagoon, ticket price of which is included in underwater world entry ticker, as it closed at 5:00 PM. Hence plan your day keeping closing time in mind. Some of the sea and Sky tower are recommended as late as possible.
After tiring day, we headed to Hotel Spa.
After Spa, we headed to Little India for dinner. You will find lots of Indian shops, restaurants here. Ensure you are dressed appropriately, unless you want to be start of everyone’s eye :)
Singapore Day 1: (30 Oct 2009) (Day 1 of 18)
We landed at Singapore Airport at 8:45 AM.
Singapore Airport was impressive, as expected. We picked up few maps to plan our stay in Singapore.
We got some INRs converted to SGD at the airport, rest we planned to withdraw from various ATMs as and when required.
We asked the lady at the Singapore Tourism counter on how can we reach to Hyatt Singapore? She recommended taking a bus, which took us approx 1 hour 30 min to reach Orchard Road, well known for shopping in Singapore. We could have taken MRT as well, unless you have lots of luggage, as you may need to change
Experience at hotel was just great, starting from check-in till check-out.
First day, we decided to visit clark quey
We stopped at Clarke Quey MRT station and took a nice 2 hours walk till we got the mouth of Singapore River.
Merlion, a beautiful hybrid of a lion and a fish, is located on the mount of Singapore River. Merlion’s lion head alludes to the fabled beast that once roamed the ancient island state, while its fish body symbolizes Singapore's origin as a prosperous seaport
We tried coffee (Local name: Kopi) with sugar & condensed milk. It was different!
On the way back, we wanted to see Civil Defence Heritage Gallery, but it was closed (closing time: 5 PM)
We also experienced trilling G-MAX bungy (http://www.gmax.com.sg/). It launches you skywards at 200km per hour to a dazzling height of 60 meters! Experience G forces similar to those experienced by astronauts in a rocket launch, all in the safety of the latest G-MAX technology.
We came back to Hyatt for some rest and evening social snacks.
Remaining of the evening, we spent at Orchard Road, Singapore famous shopping belt, as it was walking distance from Hotel.
Singapore Airport was impressive, as expected. We picked up few maps to plan our stay in Singapore.
We got some INRs converted to SGD at the airport, rest we planned to withdraw from various ATMs as and when required.
We asked the lady at the Singapore Tourism counter on how can we reach to Hyatt Singapore? She recommended taking a bus, which took us approx 1 hour 30 min to reach Orchard Road, well known for shopping in Singapore. We could have taken MRT as well, unless you have lots of luggage, as you may need to change
Experience at hotel was just great, starting from check-in till check-out.
First day, we decided to visit clark quey
We stopped at Clarke Quey MRT station and took a nice 2 hours walk till we got the mouth of Singapore River.
Merlion, a beautiful hybrid of a lion and a fish, is located on the mount of Singapore River. Merlion’s lion head alludes to the fabled beast that once roamed the ancient island state, while its fish body symbolizes Singapore's origin as a prosperous seaport
We tried coffee (Local name: Kopi) with sugar & condensed milk. It was different!
On the way back, we wanted to see Civil Defence Heritage Gallery, but it was closed (closing time: 5 PM)
We also experienced trilling G-MAX bungy (http://www.gmax.com.sg/). It launches you skywards at 200km per hour to a dazzling height of 60 meters! Experience G forces similar to those experienced by astronauts in a rocket launch, all in the safety of the latest G-MAX technology.
We came back to Hyatt for some rest and evening social snacks.
Remaining of the evening, we spent at Orchard Road, Singapore famous shopping belt, as it was walking distance from Hotel.
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