Eat, Play, Sleep │The Hip Seminyak, Bali

Bali, the Island Of Gods is no stranger to me and to many. Bali is huge with different areas, in my opinion serves different types of crowds. Kuta is the touristy, party zone while, Ubud is a haven for the yoga, zen folks.

Seminyak attracts travelers with its hip hotels & villas, cool cafes, happening & trendy beach clubs, a range of gastronomic restaurants and boutique shopping. My last trip to Bali was 7 years ago and stayed at Nusa Dua.

This was my virgin trip to Seminyak and yes, I am SOLD. Sharing my experiences via Eat│Play│Relax│Stay.

Seminyak│Food Guide 101

#1 Must-Brunch│Sisterfields

Every beach destination needs a good breakfast spot. Sisterfields brings Australia iconic café culture to Bali. Love her healthy & comprehensive menu. The cafe opens daily from 7am till 5pm and does not accept reservation. I waited for at least, 30 minutes for a seat by the bar table. #vitaminebooster #salmoneggbenedict

Address│Jalan Kayu Cendana No.7, Seminyak

#2 Must-Brunch│Petitenget

Petitenget offers elegant indoor seating, as well as cosy alfresco settings. The cafe features a colonial inspired interior. Her menu promotes and uses fresh, local produces with an eclectic mix of Western and Asian inspired dishes. Check out for their daily specials at the blackboard. #todiefor #caramelizedpork

Address│Jalan Petitenget No.40X, Kerobokan

#3 Must-Brunch│Grocer & Grind

Grocer & Grind has 4 outlets in Bali and in Seminyak, she is diagonally opposite Sisterfields. Lively atmosphere and modern-chic interior with an open kitchen concept. Her menu is extensive include organic coffee, Western & Asian flavours. I had GG’s brunch and if I had to compare, both Sisterfields and Petitengent were better.

Address│Jalan Kayu Jati No.3X, Seminyak

#4 Must-Eat│Sardine

Remarkably housed in a bamboo architecture overlooking rice paddies, this is Sardine. They practice daily-changing menu and serve predominately fresh seafood and own-farm, organic greens. I had this indescribable peace while, having a lunch date with Mother Nature. Reservation is highly recommended. #bigwowfactor

Address│Jalan Petitenget No. 21, Kerobokan

#5 Must-Eat│Barbacoa

One of the best meals I had in Seminyak was at Barbacoa. This restaurant worships meat and the asado pit proves it. Their menu specializes in woodfire & charcoal grill and filled with sumptuous flavours. Love their warm décor with high ceilings, and decorated with recycled wood, mosaic tiled floors, sandstone walls & vintage leather. Reservation can be made online (highly recommended). A must to have their 8 hour Wood-fired Asado!

Address│Jalan Petitenget No. 14, Seminyak

#6 Must-Eat│Ultimo

Ultimo serves excellent & authentic Italian food in Seminyak, with options of either the garden setting or the air-con settings. May it be a romantic couple night or girlfriends catch-up, one would definitely enjoy the dining experience in Ultimo. Impeccable service coupled with gastronomic food & atmosphere, her prices are just so “unjustifiable” affordable. #walletfriendly

Address│Jalan Kayu Aya 104X, Oberoi, Seminyak

#7 Along The Way│Motel Mexicola

I walked past Motel Mexicola Bali. The colourful, quirky and raw Mexico decor brings me back to the 1960s of Acapulco and Ricky Ricardo. Imagine the awesome “Comida Mexicana” traditional plates, to modern takes on nachos, tacos and the creative boozes. The music, the decor, drinks, food, crowd and the hosts all come together, to create the perfect feel-good atmosphere.

Address│Jalan Kayujati No. 9 X, Petitenget

# 8 Along The Way│Olive

One would see Olive restaurant on the main street as you are heading towards to Potato Head and W Hotel. The interior is vintage mix with cool, retro colours & style of Balinese and Modernist. On the menu wise, Olive gears towards mostly Western dishes.

Address│Jalan Petitenget No. 80, Seminyak

# 9 Along The Way│Settimo Cielo

Settimo Cielo (“Seventh Heaven”) – Her eclectic design with all-glass ceiling made the dining under the stars a signature feature. Her menu hosts from rustic, traditional to exquisite, artisan Italian food. If you love Italian food, Settimo Cielo is definitely able to send you straight to seventh heaven.

Address│Jalan Pangkung Sari No. 10X, Seminyak

#10│More To Go

Proclaimed Best BBQ Ribs in Bali│ Naughty Nuri’s Warung

Source from Internet

Naughty Nuri’s Warung is also called “Hog Wild in Bali” in Seminyak. She made it to every foodie blog and it must be wicked. #mouthwatering

Address│Jalan Batubelig 41, Kerobokan

Top 20 Restaurants in Asia│Sarong

Source from Internet

Sarong was a forerunner of Bali’s gastronomic epicenter in Petitenget. Under Chef Will Meyrick’s flagship restaurant, she is ranked #13 on the Miele Guide’s “Top 20 Restaurants in Asia”. It promises an epicurean experience that lives up to its name.

Address│Jalan Petitenget No. 19X, Kerobokan

 Elevated Asian Street Food│ Mama San

Source from Internet

Mamasan is an chic-modern restaurant which elevates Asian-inspired street food to polished, modern dishes. Another Chef Will Meyrick’s success, his concept was driven by ‘“The dream has always been to open a place that is more than just a restaurant”.

Address│Jalan Raya, Kerobokan, Bali

Best Coffee Joint in Seminyak│ Revolver Expresso

Source from Internet

Revolver Espresso is proclaimed by many food & travel blogs as The Best Coffee Joint in Bali. It might be challenging to locate and the easiest way is to look out for Bali Clinic as this boutique coffee specialist is tucked in a lane opposite the clinic. #caffeinefixer

Address│Jalan Kayu Aya No 3, Oberoi, Seminyak

Garden Fantasy│ Gardin Bistro & Patisserie

Source from Internet

As you enter into Gardin Bistro & Patisserie, you step into a fantasy world with beautiful lush. The menu is French-Italian-Balinese inspired and housed under the impressive glasshouse, decorated with elegant flora cafe tables and stained glass motif. Each dish is presented with some much art & love.

Address│Jalan Petitenget No.106, Seminyak

SEMINYAK│Beach CLUBS & BarS 101

#1 Must-Go Beach Bar│Potato Head Beach Club

When you ask both locals or foreigners, they would suggest you to check out Potato Head Beach Club. With an unobstructed view of Seminyak beach coupled with the hot bods, gorgeous babes, electrifying music, international DJs & celebrites, of course Potato is the hottest destination to hang out in Bali. Have you potato it?

Address│Jalan Petitenget 51B, Kerobokan

#2 Must-Go Beach Bar│ WooBar at W Retreat & Spa

Known as Bali’s premier party spot, WooBar offers sundeck hang-out bar area and cool, indoor disco. Even you do not stay here, you can swing by for meals & drinks. I spent my 2 days sunbathing at WooBar. Totally enjoyed it. Tip: Just wait at the entrance of W Retreat & Spa, a bungy will bring you to the reception counter.

Address│Jalan Kayu Aya 104X Oberoi, Seminyak

#3 Must-Go Beach Bar│ Ku De Ta

Source from Internet

Source from Internet

I recalled when I visited back in 2008, Ku De Ta is THE place. I am not saying now it is not in. Her key marketing theme leans towards “The Best Sunset Beach Destination”. Ku De Ta’s signature red beach umbrellas, superb dining experience and exuberant nightlife solidify her #1 Bali Best Beach Club.

Address│Jalan Kayu Aya No. 9, Seminyak

Seminyak│PamperING SPA 101

#1 Pamper Me│Bodyworks

Bodyworks is one of the best (and most experienced) spas in Seminyak based on price affordability & the high quality service! Bookings are absolutely essential. Imagine having your foot reflexlogy facing the quaint, rustic garden. For 3 consecutive nights, I totally pampered myself like a queen. Ideal location for group pedicure and manicure session.

Address│Jalan Kayu Jati No. 2, Petitenget

#2 Pamper Me│Amo Spa

Uber stylish Amo  positions as the ultimate beauty spa is situated right in the middle of Petitenget, directly opposite the entrance of W Retreat & Spa. Booking is advisable.

Address│Jalan Petitenget 100x, Seminyak

#3 Pamper Me│Body Temple Bali

Body Temple Bali name itself already shouts out that we should consistently pamper our body, the temple. Check out their comprehensive menu here.

My Stay in Seminyak│The Light Exclusive Villa & Spa

I loved our one bedroom villa with private pool. The Light Exclusive Villa & Spa is about 15 minute walk from the Seminyak downtown. The villa provides one way drop-off shuttle to any location within Seminyak. Tip: Do book the shuttle one day ahead.

For the price of SGD 160 per villa, per night (super peak period), it includes daily breakfast with the option, to serve in your room. And for more than 3 consecutive nights stay, the 1 hour transfer from airport to Seminyak is free.

My After-Thoughts│Seminyak

Tanah Lot Floating Temple, April 2008

Tegallalang Rice Terraces in Ubud, April 2008

I have visited (and done with) the Bali’s tourist sightseeing since 2008. For me now, Bali is more of a retreat than a party destination. I came here to relax, to be pampered, to eat delicious food and to soak up the sun. Bali’s cafes & restaurants offer a mix of Balinese cuisines with international techniques and styles, with the use of local produces.

Bali’s beaches are not the Philippines’ white & powdery ones and does not wow me at all. But, her strong waves attracts surfers and kite-boarders round the world. From high-end pool clubs to simple beach bars, one should grab an icy cold Bintang beer for some extraordinary sunsets before leaving The Island of Gods. #iwillbeback

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Spain│12 Cities in 21 Days

BARCELONA

If I have not joined my friends’ Spain itinerary at the end of my solo backpack trip, I cannot imagine completing 12 Spanish cities in 3 weeks. And, fell so hard for her.

1│Design, Arts & Gaudí Barcelona, a city that loves, lives and breathes design. Art is everywhere. Antoni Gaudí’s architectural masterpieces and iconic landmarks include Sagrada Família, Casa Milà, Casa Batlló, Park Güell and so on.

2│Watch sunset at Montjuic Hill. Roam on the streets of Las Ramblas, Placa de Catalunya & Roman quarters. Shop like a local at Mercat de la Boqueria and run at Palau Sant Jordi, the 1992 Summer Olympic Ring.

3│Recommend 3 days and be inspired by the famous artists’ greatest works.

Montserrat

1│Why Montserrat? For the magnificent views of Catalan’s landscapes and most unusual dolomite-like rocks formation. Next, to visit Santa Maria de Montserrat, a 9th century Benedictine cliff-side monastery. Lastly, to witness the 12th century wooden sculpture Virgin of Montserrat. 

2│Quick Guide Go to Plaza Espanya train and take R5 train towards Manresa. Then, decide a cable car up to Montserrat Mountain or Rack Railway. Keep track of the timetables for the rack railway, cable car & train back to Barcelona.

Return train ticket include entrance fee starts from €20. One way journey is about 1.5 hour from Barcelona. Once at Montserrat, you can visit the peak by the funicular at €10 for the magnificent mountain views of Catalonia.

3│Recommend 1 day from Barcelona

Tarragona

1│Why Tarragona? To visit one of Catalonia’s 9 wonders of UNESCO sites. Once a Roman Empire capital, you can see the well-preserved, remarkable Romans architectures & their history rooted deep in this city. Tip: All monuments are closed on Mondays except The Model of Roman Tarraco, the Cathedral and Diocesan Museum. 

2│Must-Sees include Amphitheatre of Tarraco & the Cathedral of St Tecla Tarragona. Jaw-dropping admiration of this massive Romanesque-Gothic style cathedral. Stroll down Rambla Nova in the heart of the city and look out for Human Tower Sculpture, a Catalonia tradition.

3│Recommend 1 day from Barcelona

IBIZA

1│Booze, Dance & Party The world’s most famous party island, Ibiza. No visit to Ibiza is complete without dancing till dawn in the clubs. Go to the beaches of Las Salinas, Cala Bassa or Cala Conta and dip in the turquoise Mediterranean sea.

2│Get Your Bearings Right North (Remote, rugged charm), South (Beaches and bars). Two towns are in the East, Eivissa (Bustling capital), followed by West, Sant Antonio (Clubbers’ paradise).

3│Recommend 2 days

VALENCIA

1│Best Paella One of my favourite cities in Spain (after 12 cities in 3 weeks) and I concluded the best paella is here. A mix of fresh seafood, chicken, rice and infused with saffron. Roam around Plaza de la Virgen & go to the Miquel bell tower of Valencia Cathedral. Climb up for some fantastic city-view. A must to visit Gonzalez Marti National Museum of Ceramics & Decorative Arts, housing many great masterpieces from 14th-17th centuries.

2│Famous for its oranges and the streets are filled with fragrant orange trees. Head to Mercat Central de València – A foodie heaven. Step into Plaza de Toros, a neoclassic design by Sebastián Monleón Estellés built in 1840s near the north railway station. Malvarosa beach is easily reached by public transport.

3│Recommend 2 days. Will definitely visit Valencia again when I go for La Tomatina Festival.

GranadA

1│The Alhambra Palace – This ancient Moorish stronghold is today one of Andalusia’s most scenic cities, with a dramatic setting in the foothills of the Sierra Nevada. Their intricate mosaics, arches and Arabesque motifs give an exotic taste of a bygone era. Tip: Buy your tickets to the Alhambra in advance as there are limited visitors allowed daily.

2│Best Tapas in Spain One of the few Spanish cities to maintain the old custom of giving you free food with your drink. Step through the doors of Capilla Real, a marvelous Isabelline Gothic mausoleum. Explore the white-washed Moorish houses along Albayzín and visit the Cathedral of Granada. Check out my Granada Travel Blog

3│Recommend 2 days 

Seville

1│World’s Third Largest Church – Recognized by UNESCO World Heritage site, Seville Cathedral is rich in Gothic architecture& the resting place of Christopher Columbus. Enjoy a breathtaking panoramic view of the city once you are up at the Giralda Bell Tower. I was captivated by The Alcazàr of Seville, a magnificent complex of patios and halls in different architectural styles, from Mudéjar to Gothic. Game of Thrones Season 5 was filmed here.

2│Breathtaking Plaza de España – Renaissance and neo-Moorish in style, built with poly-chromatic ceramic tiles, there are many tiled alcoves, each represents a different province of Spain. The Torre del Oro is a military watchtower, built by the Almohad dynasty in 13th century. The exquisite architectural details of the Church of San Ildefonso are worth a visit. Others to visit include Plaza de Toros & Diego Velazquez’s painted ceiling.

3│Recommend 3 days

Madrid

1│The Capital of Spain has something for everyone. Offering world-class museums, incredible cuisines & gorgeous architectures. The Royal Palace is free on Wednesdays. Plaza Mayor is the square where you can people-watch and soak into the buzzing atmosphere.

2│Stunning cathedrals includes The Cathedral of Madrid & San Francisco el Grande Basilica. Head to Plaza de Cibeles and Temple of Debodeven, an ancient Egyptian temple. Even, the Post Office building is a work of art here. Do pay a visit to Real Madrid’s legendary stadium and eat tons of jamón (ham).

3│Recommend 3 days

ÁVILA

1│The Walls of Ávila – The medieval wall encircling the entire old city was 2.5 kilometers in length with average height of 12 meters. With 9 gates, 77 semi-circular towers, the walls are over 3 meters thick. I can so-imagine the medieval war-time here. #formidable

2│A plethora of Roman architectures, old lumbering convents, Gothic cathedrals and cobblestone alleyway. Visit The Cathedral of Ávila and the Romanesque Basílica de San Vicente. Walking into Ávila, one almost feels pious. Tip: Head out to the opposite hill, to capture the walled-city overview.

3│Recommend 1 day trip from Madrid

Toldeo

1│Walking back in time – This UNESCO World Heritage site was once conquered by the Romans in 193 BC, then became the capital of the Visigoths Kingdom, and later taken over by the Moors in the 8th Century. History breathes every corner in Toldeo and, also famous for making the best swords in Europe.

2│Must-sees in Toledo – The Cathedral of Toledo, a beautiful Gothic architecture church. The Alcazar Fortress is high up on a hill, a great place to stop for panoramic views of the city. Plaza Zocodóver – one of the main squares in town. Iglesia de San Ildefonso & Mirador del Valle are the best vantage points for some great photos.

3│Recommend 1 day trip from Madrid. Just a 30 minutes train ride away from Madrid at a return ticket of €25.

SEGOVIA

1│Roman Ruins in Spain – Three highlights are The Segovia Cathedral, The Roman Aqueduct and The Alcazar. The impressive cathedral was built during the Renaissance period. Once you arrive in Segovia, you cannot miss this 2,000 year old Roman Aqueduct, built by Emperor Trajan.

2│Segovia’s Famous Suckling Pig – Fed on 21 days of mother’s milk and considered an absolute delicacy. A must-eat! #tastesogood

3│ Recommend 1 day from Madrid.  Strongly suggest for a bus. Go to Madrid Atocha Train Station train station, hop onto #11 bus and get off the end. The journey is 1.5 hour.

Salamanca

1│ La Ciudad Dorada also known as The Golden City. Nestled in the south of Castilla y León, Salamanca has the oldest university in Spain and the third oldest in Europe. This magnificent university city, an UNESCO World Heritage site since 1988 has its medieval & historical charm. #ageless

2│Head to Plaza Mayor – Located in the heart of the city, this huge square surrounded with distinctive sandstone buildings & baroque architectures. Other attractions include: The Old Cathedral, The New Cathedral, Casa de las Conchas and University of Salamanca.

3│Recommend 1 day from Madrid. It would take about 2 hours train ride from Madrid at Chamartin Rail Way Station.

Spain│My After-Thoughts

Yes, I felt in love with Spain. As a vivid traveler, she is “multi-sensory” and an amazing country. Intricate, beautiful and harmonious mix of Gothic, Moorish and Italian styles of designs, architectures and monuments. Definitely a must-visit for arts & architecture lover!

Put aside the countless eye-candies on the Spanish streets (ha-ha), I love, love the siesta atmosphere, friendly locals and the gastronomic Spanish cuisines & delicacies. I was drinking their beer, wine & Sangria almost every 2 hours of my sight-seeings.

My Spain Route in 21 dayS

I am definitely going back to visit Zaragoza, Pueblos Blancos (The White Town), Cordoba, La Rioja (Winery region) and throw some tomatoes at my husband during La Tomatina festival in Bunol. The question is always WHEN. #visitspain

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10 Places You Must Visit in Cape Town

Cape Town is beautifully diverse – Exquisite beaches, mind-blowing landscapes, world-renowned gastronomy and amazing wildlife. Truly, A Gift to The Earth!

1│Table Mountain

Lion’s Head from Table Mountain

Capetown City from Table Mountain

Wise Words from Nelson Mandela

Awesome views from Table Mountain

Table Mountain, a famous icon of Capetown is a majestic flat-topped mountain, overlooking the city.

Lion’s Head, 669m above sea level

The Rock Hyrax often sighted in Table Mountain

My hometown is 9,663km away

Tips For Table Mountain

Table Mountain Aerial Cableway

• Go early in morning, to avoid long queue for the cableway.
• Park along the road leading to the entrance – No carpark.
• Prepare your UV protection. At the top of Table Mountain, an open area with no shelter.

2│Signal Hill

Signal Hill viewpoint is a 20 minutes drive from the city via Kloof Nek Road. A popular spot for picnics, sunset & couples!

View of Atlantic Ocean 

View of Lion’s Head (left) & Atlantic Ocean (right)

View of Table Mountain (left) & Lion’s Head (right)

Painting The Lion’s Head at Signal Hill

3│Bloubergstrand Beach

Bloubergstrand has amazing views across the Atlantic Ocean and Table Mountain. Just a 20 minute drive from city centre, also a famous spot for kite and wind surfing.

Kiteflying at Bloubergstrand beach

Capturing Table Mountain

Unblocked view of Table Mountain

Love the cloudless, blue sky

4│The 12 Apostles

Highway view of The 12 Apostles

Be awed by The 12 Apostles

Together with the locals & The 12 Apostles

5│Victoria and Alfred Waterfront

The Victoria and Alfred Waterfront is Cape Town’s epicenter for shopping & dining. A seaside boardwalk, with more than 450 retail outlets always packed with locals & tourists.

The V&A Harbour

Know your bearing

Victorian Gothic-style clock tower as you walked towards V&A Waterfront

The 131-foot-high observation wheel

ENJOY THE CAPE PENINSULA DRIVE

6│Chapman’s Peak Drive

This route is one of the most scenic drives in the world, offering panoramic views.

114 curves as it winds along the peninsula coast

One of the most enjoyable self drive in my travels

7│Cape of Good Hope

A 2 hour drive from Capetown. Occasionally, there are some queues, to enter the Cape of Good Hope National Reserve. We experienced for an hour queue (in our car) on Boxing Day.

The most south-western point of African continent

We were at Cape of Good Hope

Bucket list √

Staring at the ocean for some Good Hope

8│Boulders Penguin Colony

Penguin Close-up

Penguins at Foxy Beach

African penguins at Boulders beach

Stunning scenery at Boulders Penguins Colony 

9│Llandudno Beach

One of Capetown’s most beautiful beaches, surrounded by large granite boulders and extremely freezing water. A perfect location for our pre-wedding sunset photography!

10│Constantia Vineyard

The Constantia Wine Route – The oldest wine-making region in the southern hemisphere with a total of 9 wineries. I didn’t visit as a tourist, we had our pre-wedding photography at Constantia Valley.

We really love this candid shot

Dramatic clouds with the beautiful vineyard

Tip #1 – Affordable Car Rental in Capetown

As low as €40 per day & driving in Capetown was a breeze. Good driving etiquette by the Africans, wide roads and best of all – No Traffic!

All car rental is located opposite Capetown International Airport. Walk via an underground tunnel

Tip #2 – Wine, Dine & Surf at Camp Bay

Capetown is a culinary destination. Camp Bay, a hippy & affluent suburbs with an eclectic mix of restaurants, cafe & bars.

Tip #3 – Green Market Square 

A lively & vibrant marketplace opens every Mon – Sat (9am-4pm). Located between Longmarket & Shortmarket streets.

Tip #4 – Other Attractions Not To Miss

It was a shame that I had 4 days in Capetown and left for my Kruger National Park Safari. Strongly recommend to visit Robben Island, Bo-Kaap, Kirstenbosch & The District Six Museum.

The Million Dollar Question – Is Capetown Safe?

Everyone has a different view point on the subject & a different risk tolerance as well. After my trip, I would say that Capetown is not as dangerous as most said.

Some tips I gathered from the locals – My photographer, make-up artiste & my apartment’s security guard.

• Stay in the hotels and hang around areas at V&A Waterfront, Greenpoint (Somerset Road), Long Street, Camp Bay & Observatory.
• Do not deviate from N2 Freeway (airport to city centre) and avoid Nyanga, a suburb known for high crime rate.

Homeless is common sight in Capetown. Behave normal & not overly paranoid

• Avoid driving at night, doggy alleys and late night walking on the streets.
• Do not put yourself in any isolating situations.

Source from Internet on Unsafe Area in Capetown (dated in 2011)

In my opinion, South Africa is a fascinating country to visit. Most importantly, don’t let the safety concerns and generalized opinions abstain you from The Mother City of South Africa. Have an open mind and practice extra vigilance.

Visit Capetown soon! The penguins are waiting for you!

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The Best of Cambodia in 7 Days

Angkor Wat, UNESCO heritage site is one of the largest archaeological sites in operation in the world. This architectural masterpiece is well-preserved and occupies 400 km2 (about 60 % of Singapore). Be awed by its mightiness & magnificence.

Hence, do not underestimate the distance between temples & ruins. Tip #1: Do hire a driver or tuk-tuk as low as USD20 for a whole day, to bring you from sight to sight. Trust me, you need to preserve your energy to “lara croft” around these Khmer temples & ruins.

Day 1│Angkor Thom

Tip#2: Purchase your Angkor Wat pass either 1 day (USD20), 3 days (USD40) or 7 days (USD60). We bought a 3 days pass and kick-start our Khlmer adventures with Bayon Temple via the north gate and explored the entire Angkor Thom on foot.

My favourite was the Bayon Temple, situated north of Angkor Wat. Established as the capital of the Khmer Empire at 12th century, the complex of buildings cover an area of 9 square km and include many well preserved buildings.

Leper King Terrace

Elephant Terrace 

Behind us stood the Bas Relief Figures

Day 1│Angkor Wat

Tip #3: Start as early as possible because by late morning, you would be under the blazing heat & unbearable humidity. Have your sunblock protection & constantly hydrate yourself with water. I witnessed tourists fainting and symptoms of heat stroke during my 3 days in Angkor Wat.

Entering Angkor Wat via the sandstone causeway at west gate

The Seven-headed Naga (Serpent) & The Lion

Within the Temple

A common sight of Theravada Buddhist Monks & their vibrant orange robes (also, one of my fav photos)

The Central Temple is surrounded by the longest bas reliefs in the world. Mostly completed in the early 12th century. With more than 3,000 Apsaras carved into the walls, each supposedly unique.

The third storey of the central temple is known as Bakan, the Kingdom of the Gods, and is suitably difficult to reach. For several years the Kingdom of the Gods was not accessible, but is now open with limited visitors.

Tip #4: Please wear appropriate attire as you are in the temple and also, proper shoes. Most stairs are narrow and each step is half the length of your feet!? Be careful, not to fall as you are averagely at the height of 5th – 6th storey.

Avoid visiting Angkor Wat during wet season (June to Oct) due to all these hiking in the open

The View from the Top

As I spider-man myself up with my hands, I asked “Why on earth, I am doing this? Once you reached the top, you would be rewarded with the stunning view from the top. #breathtaking

Day 2│Angkor Wat

Almost all the tourists will not miss for the icon Angkor Wat’s sunrise-reflection photo. Unfortunately for us, it was too cloudy at the breaking dawn that we were not able to witness the famous golden Angkor Wat sunrise. #whatashame

Angkor Wat itself is made of sandstone blocks floated 50km downstream from holy Phnom Kulen.  Inscriptions tell that 300,000 workers and 6,000 elephants were used in the construction of the wat in the 12th Century.

Bakong Prasat temple in Angkor Wat complex

Chaotic beauty from Beng Mealea Temple

Banteay Srei Ruins

Sunset at Phnom Bakheng

Neak Pean – As usual the last in the group as I am still photographing

By now, most of us would be temple or ruins overdose. Thus, it is important to read up some history of the site so that, one can fully appreciate them. I have been to a few magnificent ruins around the world. I must say, Angkor Wat is one of the world’s best.

DAY 3│Ta Prohm

Banteay Kdei is situated at the south of Ta Prohom

Many were badly looted

Intact decorative colorful sandstone covered with ornate carvings

Lost among the Jungle & Ruins

I had a new form of respect for the aging giants

Ta Prohm has been largely left to the clutches of the living jungle and bounded by massive roots of huge trees. With its dynamic interaction between nature and man-made art, this amazing temple is a favorite for many.

Temple of Ta Prohm

Amazingly Entwined

A Sense of Sacredness

We felt so part of Laura Coft’s crew

Pre Rup Temple

Tip #5: One should wear more bright colours & sweat-freeattire, to standout in the pictures versus patches of perspiration appearing in your photos.

Tip #6: Go for daily foot reflexlogy in Angkor Wat for as low as USD10 for an hour (price back in 2007). With daily walking of 5-6 hours, your feet will thank for it. 

I highly recommend 3 full days in Angkor Wat itself especially if you love architectures marvel & photography. #norush

DAY4 & 5│Phnom Penh

Travelling from Angkor Wat to Phnom Penh would take 6-7 hours averagely by bus. Way back in my 2007 trip, the coach cost USD 6, one way and was not as modern (versus now with wifi & charging point at USD12). Took a 7am coach, arrived at 1pm and headed straight to the Killing Fields.

The Killing Fields

She is only reason for me to visit the capital of Cambodia. About 15km away from the main city, it is easily reachable by tuk-tuk. Witnessed one of the worst massacres in history and the brutality of the Cambodian Khmer Rouge regime which killed millions. It was such a somber atmosphere and I did not wish to take further pictures. #disgusted

A minute of respect to all victims suffered at The Killing Fields! #restinpeace

We came across the government campaign and decided to join in

BBQ meat for my french loaf (USD 1) as breakfast was one of my favs

Simple dinner at Cambodia

Stunning Khmer cuisine

Enjoying a Khmer performance over our dinner

DAY 6 & 7│Sihanoukville

Not many are aware that Cambodia has coastal lines and beautiful beachfront. Sihanoukville has white sand beaches and clear water, projecting a laid back atmosphere.

A 5 hours coach from Phom Penh to Sihanoukville

Lazy afternoon at the beachfront

Yummy, fresh shrimps by the beach

Awesome Cambodia Ice coffee 

Dragon guarding Sihanoukville 

Wat Leu Temple at Sihanoukville

Tip #7: Hop onto a scooter for USD 1 to move around in Sihanoukville. Back in 2007, Sihanoukville beach & resorts are very affordable compared to her neighboring countries. No itinerary or plans needed, just chillax! 

Spectacular sunset at Sihanoukville

Stunning Lightning Shot

Entertaining Fire show

Cambodia│My After-thoughts

Back in 2007 when I visited Cambodia, it was still much a developing country. She is totally inexpensive. A USD 1 beer, USD 5 souvenir tshirt or for USD 20, one would be feasting like a queen.

Tip #8: Do not be bothered to change to local currency and just spend in USD. Do not that their currency is not recognized outside of the country.

Happy Cambodian Kids

Hard to Bid Farewell

Her people are friendly & warm. Their smiles are genuine and easily contented folks. I love their street foods, as well as Khlmer cuisine. Of course, Angkor Wat never disappoints. I have to admit after witnessing Angkor Wat, the other ruins round the world are trying very hard to impress me, this refesber.

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