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Sai Yok National Park is not as well developed as the other national parks, but it is Kanchanaburi's most accessible wilderness areas. Inside the main entrance of the park you can find limestone caves, the remains of a bridge on the Death Railway and Japanese ranges (actually little more than piles of bricks). There is also a network of clear streams that bubble up from sources in the park, and a cave where people want to see clouds of bats stream out at dusk. Unfortunately the park is not a detailed hiking maps or much in the way of visitor information to English speakers.
Near the Visitors Center is misleading Nam Tok Sai Yok Yai (Sai Yok Yai waterfall), which is better described as a small stream cascading over a waterfall. It flows into the Mae Nam Noi Khwae near the suspension bridge. It was in this park, the famous Russian roulette scenes in the 1978 film The Deer Hunter was filmed.
Noteworthy fauna in the park, the Kitti's Hog-nosed bats (smallest mammal), the world's regal crabs, barking deer, blue Pittas, crowned hornbills, gibbons, Malayan porcupine, Slow Loris and Serowe. There is also wild elephants which occasionally cross from Myanmar.
Forestry Department bungalows (0 2562 0760; bungalows 800-2100B) available at Sai Yok National Park, drag them to six. Incredibly beautiful is the number of houses near the suspension bridge, which was completely deserted on weekdays during the rainy season - just you and the River. One of the best is Saiyok See Raft (0 3451 4194, s 700B) who rooms with private bathroom, which looks at the stream has. Ask when booking to arrange meals and food options are limited. There are a number of fast food stalls near the Visitors Center.
The entrance of the park is approximately 100 miles northwest of Kanchanaburi and 5 km from Hwy 323rd You can Sangkhlaburi Kanchanaburi-Bus (50B, two hours, frequencies) to turn off and hire a motorbike taxi from the main road to the entrance. Tell the driver you want 'name Tok Sai Yok Yai. The last bus back to Kanchanaburi crossing at about 3:30.
From raft houses near the bridge, you can rent long tail, both for sightseeing along the river and caves or Daowadung Tham Tham Lawa. Rent a long tail costs about 400B per hour, but rates are negotiable.
I know it's silly to crave this when you are on empty stomach the whole day. It's raining now in Kuala Lumpur and I'm cooking this spicy udon + egg and eat it with kimchi..Yummy.
My advice: Learn something that perks your interest.
1. Learn from Korean lyrics This might not be the most effective but I am drawn everytime to learn the hangul, correct pronunciation and abstract meaning behind the lyrics. It's so satisfying when you can write the hangul correctly and pronounce properly.
I love korean songs. Korean are so creative especially on the hip-hop side. Yeah..I'm pretty bias when it comes to G-Dragon hehe. He's one creative freak! How could I not notice?
I initially start with slow songs like Lee Seung Chul's song. I know it's soapy but I could sing slowly and attempting at number 1 noraebang spot. Miehehe..
KoreanClass101.com - I could not stress enough of how helpful this website is. Their youtube classes rocks!
3. Increase your vocabulary
I found this website 6,000 common word in Korean from Korean diva. The site structures the vocabulary in very user friendly method. You won't find it difficult at all.
4. Other websites
- Sogang University Korean notes I have received decent reviews on Sogang University's teaching method and how the students able to speak in the shortest time. Warning: I am not promoting Sogang University exclusively. However, If given the opportunity I want to continue my study here.
5. Get a korean friend in your country
I have a korean friend in Kuala Lumpur whom I meet regularly. She will check my pronunciation from time to time. Her most precious advice is I might not be able to practise much if I stay in the city cause the Korean want to practise their English. I will go to the rural by doing WWOOF though.
Hellfire Pass is 500 meters long and 26 meters deep of rocks that were dug by prisoners of war designed to rail death to continue his journey from Bangkok to Rangoon. Soldiers were forced to remove the stone using nothing more than picks, hammers and bare hands. At the 1000 Australian and British soldiers, who have 12 weeks clear-cut Mountain, died 700th Hellfire Pass Memorial and Memorial Museum was established to commemorate the fallen. The monument consists of a route where visitors to the old railway line into the jungle and the museum. Museum contains pictures and tools, along with the video shows the exhibition documents the event. Like other places on this track, a monument and a museum of very mobile locations. If you are connected over the connection to events that were imprisoned here, or in any other way can be very painful experience. This site has special significance for Australians. Australia-Thai Chamber of Commerce (http://www.dva.gov.au/commem/oawg/thailand.htm) supports the museum. Four hundred Australian prisoners began working in the Hellfire Pass on Anzac Day in 1943 and instead plays an important role in the annual Anzac event in Thailand.
How to get there: There are indeed many orgainsed trips to the Hell Fire memorial and museum are available from Kanchanaburi. For those who want to get there alone, the museum is located on land owned by the Thai army. To get a bus running from Kanchanaburi to Thong Pha Phum pass instead.
The Hell Fire memorial museum is open every day, and there is no entry fee (though donations are suggested).
Mueang Sing is a historical park in the Sai Yok district, Kanchanaburi province, Thailand. The remains of two Khmer temples date to the 13th and 14th century. It was declared a historical park in 1987.
Built in the Bayon style, the temple relates to the Khmer kingdom in the reign of King Jayavarman VII (1180 to 1219). A stone inscription of Prince Vira Kumara praising his father, 23 cities are named. One of these cities was named Srichaiya Singhapura, which some scholars identify with Mueang Sing.
The name Mueang Sing first showed in the chronicles of the reign of King Rama I (1782-1809), when it was a fortified town protecting the town Kanchanaburi. In the reform of provincial administration at the end of the 19th century its status was reduced from Mueang to Tambon (commune).
Four monuments are existing inside the area of 736,000 m² enclosed by a laterite wall. The southern wall winds along the Khwae Noi river course, while the other three sides are quadratic. The main monument is in the center of the area, northwest of this is are the foundations of a second temple building. The other two monuments are of much smaller scale.
Today, I splurged a bit on food. Maybe because it's the second day and I was so famished that my stomach grumbled like heavy metal song.^^.
The total costed me only MYR10 (roughly 3,500 won).
From top clockwise - Mee Bandung Muar, Apam Balik and Pecal. Middle: Air jambu batu (Guava juice)
Mee bandung Muar is believed to be originated from Muar, Johor. A place south of Malaysia. Eventhough there are loads of foods to choose, but I settled for something that I wouldn't find in Korea. It's not that spicy. The broth is made from sweet potato plus other ingredients (I'm not a cook but just love to eat^^).
Apam balik is somewhat similar to hotteok. Though hotteok can be less fattening hehe. Apam balik is made from flour, sugar, peanut and sweet corn. I found nowadays there are some sellers put chocolate or other fillings inside.
Pecal. Hmm..Simply put it is a salad with peanut dressing.
Today I ate nasi kerabu (salad rice) to break fast. Bibimbap comes close to it if I want to compare with Korean cuisine. The only similarity is rice , vegetables and the fact that it is mix rice. Other than that, the differences are really up to your own imagination. I can't get bored from eating nasi kerabu. The rice is bluish because it was cooked with natural colored flower.
Could I say that it originated from Kelantan (east-coast state in Malaysia)? A state with unique dialect and mouth-watering cuisine.
It costed me MYR2.80 (1,000 won) for this in Bazaar Ramadhan. Yeap..Malaysian food is cheap! Yeay!! If you add up other side dishes the price will be different. I like to eat it with salty duck egg. Yummy..Ahh..they add myeolchijeot or budu as well in nasi kerabu. It could be spicy if you add more chillies, just the way I like it.
Today I will start my fasting. Ramadhan is a month for Muslim to defer from food, drinks and impermissible actions from the break of dawn till dusk (in a day), for a whole month. It starts today, Saturday 22nd August and will roughly ends on 21st September. This Ramadhan I will be less hyperactive ^^ (have to save my energy for this blog..hehe) and counting down the days to Seoul which will be on 27th September. In the mean time, I will ensure that I exhibit a daily photo of what I eat during this fasting month (either before the break of dawn or breaking fast). I'm gonna miss this kind of food when I'm in Korea, for sure!
To start with, this is what I ate just now, an indian pancake with spicy/non-spicy coconut gravy. I lurvv indian food. This is suitable for vegan (no trace of meat/seafood).
Background:When I arrived in Dubai back in 1996, I was living the opposite side of the Sheikh Zayed road and army compound which is today the Down town Burj Dubai area. The all area of Burj Khalifa once was empty quarter and then the army barrack. It was made with high rise wall, looked like fort and on each corner, a tower raised with anti-aircraft guns on top although most of the time
My friends has been bugging me to board the KTX when they will visit Seoul this November. But I am a bit reluctant because it just feel the same like riding the normal train but it is at the maximum speed of F1 car. So what?!! Tskk..
Hmm..it's cheap. Compared to Japan's bullet train. For one way ride of 2 hours 50 minutes from Seoul to Busan costs roughly 51,200 Won (MYR150 - Standard class) or 71,700 Won (MYR215 - First Class).
Booking and purchase is a breeze, you can do it online.
Like this, just a sample:
A blogger's rambling of bullet train to Nongsan by Martinborough
Here is a youtube video of a journey by bullet train from Seoul to Busan
I felt like choking myself for forgetting G's birthday! How could I? Tssk..T_T It should be yesterday - 18.08.2009 Well..better late than never. Happy Birthday Kwon Ji Yong!!
Celebrating his birthday with his upcoming solo song - Heartbreaker.
The Death Railway stretched to 415 km from Thanbyuzayat in Burma to Nong Pladuk in Bang Pong district of Ratchaburi province in Thailand. 304 km from the railway station in Thailand, and the remaining 111 km in Burma.
More than 16,000 prisoners died during the construction of the railway undertaking or thirty-eight of prisoners for every km of railway built. The prisoners died from disease, malnutrition and exhaustion. There was little or no medical care available, and many prisoners suffer terribly before they died.
Prisoner diet consists of rice and salted vegetables served twice a day. Sometimes they were forced to work up to sixteen hours a day in appalling conditions. Many detainees were tortured for the smallest offenses. The Japanese commander had the motto "if you work hard you will be treated, but if you do not work hard punished."
Penalties included brutal mistreatment, references to kneel on sharp sticks while holding a rock of one to three hours at a time and tied to a tree with barbed wire and left for two to three days without food or water.
Boule's book probably best describes the attitude of the Japanese officers. "From the very beginning, they acted like wild chain-gang guards, and parking was responsible for a time when the notice of sadistic torturers."
Japan signed the 1929 Geneva Convention on treatment of POW's, but not ratified. Many people do not understand how the Japanese could have been treated their prisoners so badly, and many survivors of the Death Railway applications still can not forgive their Japanese Captor this day.
It is ironic that after the war many of the Japanese soldiers who were interviewed said that although she could not understand how easily the Allies returned to the first, they were surprised by the tenacity and determination they showed in the construction of bridge and the Death Railway. "I was overwhelmed by their tenacious spirit," says Takashi Nagase, an English interpreter for the Japanese military police.
Part of the reason for the Japanese behavior may, in their attitude to surrender. Most of them prefer to die or commit suicide than surrender. Their perception of the Allied soldiers was very low because they could not understand how the Allies could so easily and not consumed by guilt because he is.
The Japanese were determined to build a railway to a new route from Rangoon and the Bay of Bengal via Bangkok to Singapore. They believed that by relying on sea routes only, they will be vulnerable to allied attack, so they need other means of transport. They also had their sights on the British Empire in India.
The Japanese had an agreement with Thai PM Field Marshal P Pibulsongkram 21 December 1941 to fill in Thailand until they meddle in internal affairs.
On 8 August 1942, Prime Minister signed an agreement with the Japanese representative Sheji General Poriya construction of the railway. The Japanese hope that the few meters railway material could carry 3,000 tons of supplies and strategic materials per day.
The Death Railway branched off from the southern railway and headed to Kanchanaburi. The first fifty-five kilometers from Nong Pladuk to Kanchanaburi was easy to build because of the flat terrain. The rest of the way was hell and that is how he earned his nickname.
The first study on the railway was completed, it was estimated that it would be five years to build. The main architect was S.O. No construction began in October 1942 and was completed in August 1943. Rail operators was inaugurated on 25 October 1943. The two tracks, one from Thanbyuzayat in Burma and the other from Nong Pladuk met Niek just south of the three pagodas Pass.
After the railway was completed, 30,000 prisoners were held in six camps along the railway line to maintain. These camps were near the bridge and other strategic positions so vulnerable to allied attacks, and many prisoners were killed in bombings.
When people come to Thailand, one of the first things they want to visit the Bridge on the River Kwai. Famous by the 1957 film starring Alec Guinness, William Holden and Jack Hawkins, the bridge is one of the largest tourist attractions in Thailand today.
Located in Kanchanaburi, this is 120 km west and about two hours drive from Bangkok. The city was founded by King Rama I against a possible invasion by the Burmese military through three pagodas Pass.
Kanchanaburi is a beautiful city with beautiful nature, nice people and many picturesque Buddhist temples. Many people staying in guest houses, situated on the River. It is a great place to escape from the pulsating life of the busy Bangkok life.
Of rich tourists travel expensive package backpackers traveling through the cheapest form of public transport, hundreds of people towards Kanchanaburi daily to catch a glimpse of the famous bridge.
The film won three Guinness won the Oscar for best actor, David Lean for best director and the film for best picture. The scenario was adapted from a novel by Pierre Boule and ironic, like so many films about Vietnam was made in Thailand, the film was shot in Sri Lanka and England.
The film itself was a work of fiction, but over time people have come to believe that the story was based on real characters. The conditions Boule sets were very real, but that he was a prisoner of war itself.
Kanchanaburi is 129 kilometers west-northwest of Bangkok. Kanchanaburi War Cemetery is located in the northwestern part of the town along Saeng Chuto Road. A Commission signpost faces the cemetery on the opposite side of the road.
The notorious Burma-Siam railway, built by Commonwealth, Dutch and American prisoners of war, was a Japanese project driven by the need for improved communications to support the large Japanese army in Burma. During its construction, approximately 13,000 prisoners of war died and were buried along the railway. An estimated 80,000 to 100,000 civilians also died during the project, chiefly forced from Peninsular Malaysia and the Dutch East Indies, or conscripted in Siam (Thailand) and Burma (Myanmar). Two workers, one in Siam and the other in Burma worked from opposite ends of the line to the center.
The Japanese aimed at completing the railway station in the 14 months and work began in October 1942. The line 424 kilometers long, was completed in December 1943. Graves of those who died during the construction and maintenance of the Burma-Siam railway (except for Americans who were repatriated) were transferred from camp burial grounds and isolated sites along the railway into three cemeteries in Chungkai and Kanchanaburi in Thailand and Thanbyuzayat in Myanmar. Kanchanaburi War Cemetery is only a short distance from the place of the former "Kanburi ', the prisoner of war base camp through which most of the prisoners through on their way to other camps. It was created by the Army Graves Service that all excavated along the Southern railway, from Bangkok to Niek. Around 300 men who died during the epidemic on basic camp were cremated and their ashes now lie in two graves in the churchyard.
The names of these men are shown on panels in the shelter pavilion. There are now 5084 Commonwealth victims of the Second World War buried or commemorated in this cemetery. There are also 1,896 Dutch war graves. In the entrance building of the cemetery are Kanchanaburi Memorial recording the names of 11 men of the army of undivided India buried in Muslim cemeteries in Thailand, where their graves are not could be maintained. churchyard was designed by Colin St Clair Oakes.
Located just 129km from Bangkok, Kanchanburi is also a favourite holiday destination for Bangkokians and other Thais residing in the central region.
Most foreigners when they think of Kanchanaburi they think of the River Kwai Bridge and the history of the Second World War. Kanchanaburi however, has so much more in the way of waterfalls, mountains, dams, fishing, boating, trekking and cave exploration. Sai Yok National Park is very popular.
The province is most famous for The Bridge Over the River Kwai, which was built next to the town of Kanchanaburi crossing the Mae Klong river. The Death Railway ran all the way from the Kwae river valley up to the Three Pagodas Pass. Today only the lowest part of the railway to Nam Tok is still in use. In Kanchanaburi city, there is a war museum and a large cemetery of prisoners of war who died during construction of the Death Railway.
Nine Army War History national park (Uttayan Haeng Chart Songkram Kao Tab) located at Ladya field, Tambon Chongsadao. It’s around 40 kilometers from Kanchanaburi downtown. This place has provided historical evidence of the nine army war. The nine army war was the war between King Rama I of Thailand and King Padung of Burma. The war ended as a victorious one for Thailand.
In the Sai Yok district, there is a Buddhist Tiger Temple where tame tigers roam freely once a day. Also in Sai Yok is the Mueang Sing historical park, ruins of a Khmer town and temple, as well as the Sai Yok National Park with the two Sai Yok waterfalls.
These are the lists of budget food in Seoul from JoongAng Daily and Korea Times that I have compiled. By means of budget, mostly it covers local Korean cuisine for less than 10,000 Won. (*price may change*)
1. Nakseo Pajeon - This is “monster pajeon”, Haemul (seafood) pajeon (6,000 won)
Offers various noodle dishes, well known to the Korean public as "kalguksu'' or hand rolled noodles with a thick broth made with seafood, chicken or anchovies. The word "kaljebi'' is a combined form of "kalguksu'' and another local recipe, "sujebi'' .
Kalguksu is made of noodles that are hand rolled and cut with a sharp knife, "kal'' in Korean. "Guksu'' means noodles.
Seafood kaljebi (4,500 won) and the ordinary handmade kalgukso (4,500 won).
"Seafood Kaljebi'' is located behind the Kukdong Building near Chungmuro station on subway line 3. It is closed on Sundays
Opening hours are from 6 a.m. to 10 p.m. For more information, call (02) 2277-5355 (Korean).
Hahah..not like what you think! It is a kind of a croquet made of minced seafood and vegetables, deep fried in a mix of breadcrumbs and mashed potatoes. Ddong tuiguim (3,000 won for 4 pieces) is a well-known side-dish at Haemul Ddeokjjim 0410, a rising restaurant chain that specializes in spicy rice cakes with seafood.
“Haemul Ddeokjjim 0410” (02-2274-0412) is located in Dongdaemun, northern Seoul, right across from the Migliore shopping mall.
The basic beef shabu-shabu costs only 6,000 won ($4.70) per head, while the seafood option costs 8,000 won at lunch and 9,000 won at dinner. For both beef and seafood, expect to pay 14,000 won.
Jinsabu Shabu - Tel: (02) 332-0168
Address: 169-1 Donggyo-dong, Mapo District, northwest Seoul
Subway: Hongik University Station, line No. 2, exit 4
Baklava - deep-fried phyllo dough filled with crushed cashews, walnuts, pistachios and honey. 100 grams of which is 3,500 won tastes surprisingly familiar like yakgwa.
A warning for those venturing into the world of Syrian treats - baklava is extremely sweet, which is probably why they suggested to have it with dark tea or strong Turkish coffee to balance out the sugar.
Salam Bakery (02-383-7044) is on the left side of the road going to the Seoul Central Mosque. Go to Itaewon Station, line No. 6, exit 3.
Go to Hoehyeon Underground Shopping Center Exit 5 and turn right at the first alley. The center is connected to the Hoehyeong Station on subway line 4. For more information, call (02) 733-9526
The most popular menu item is classic old-fashioned kalguksu. This noodle soup (5,500 won) is simple and sticks to the basics. The broth is made from anchovy and oyster with a handful of perilla seeds. With a filling portion and a clean aftertaste, it’s undoubtedly a place for encores of noodles.
*Encore Kalguksu, (02) 525 8418, is located across from Seoul Arts Center. Follow the alley next to Baeknyeonok. The restaurant is on your right. Open 10 a.m. - 10 p.m.
13. Nunnamujip - the kimchimaribap Picture by KoreaTimes 4,500 won a bowl, has a light taste that doesn't overwhelm the palate. The kimchi soup is not at all spicy, with perhaps the sesame oil helping add flavor.
Go along the main road of Samcheong-dong. Nunnamujip is around 50 meters away from Yongsusan. It is right next to the Oz Kitchen restaurant.
Roast mackerel - a simple Korean meal. Steamed rice, four side dishes and a roast fish. *Hyanggi Goeul (02-795-1754) is located in Hannam-dong across from Mijin Fitness Center.
Seaweed-rolled rice (gimbab), in which the ingredients come outside rather than inside the seaweed packaging
For 5,000 won per order, the portion of squid was enough to feed two, and the pickled radish came in earthy chunks. A portion of sesame oil was served for dipping the rice.
The mix of seaweed, squid and pickled radish together was savory and filling.
Go to Myeong-dong Station, line No. 4, exit 8. Walk 10 minutes. The restaurant is by the back door to Utoo Zone shopping mall.
"doenjang bibimbap'" (steamed rice with vegetables and herbs topped with soybean paste). The rice portion may seem small, but you can always ask for free refills
The doenjang bibimbap costs 5,500 won.
The restaurant is located in front of the Kolon building, behind City Hall, downtown Seoul. It is next to the Taepyeong-ro police station.
Cream sauce tteokbokki , the Japanese curry tteokbokki and the basic red tteokbokki (each 3,500 won).
To get to Ttalkakbari, get off at Chungmuro station on subway line 3 or 4 and walk out from exit 1 until you find the SK gas station on your right and turn right. Walk straight until you find the restaurant, located uphill on your left. For more information, call (02) 2267-7009 or visit http://blog.naver.com/kija11
The cold buckwheat noodles (6,000 won) are served on two layers of a bamboo sieve with a sauce, a basket of chopped scallions and shredded radish on the side.
Nabeyaki udon (noodle soup in a hot pot) and zaru soba (cold buckwheat noodle with a sauce for sipping). A Korean-style udon has crown daisy in it. The peculiar herbal scent overpowers the anchovy broth, which has a stronger soy sauce flavor than the Japanese version. Other ingredients are familiar like shiitake mushrooms, as are the egg and fish cakes stay the same.
Go to City Hall station, line No. 2, exit 1 and walk five minutes toward Deoksu Palace. The restaurant is located on a small alley behind First Fire and Marine Insurance, past Korean Air headquarters near City Hall. For more information, call (02) 755-0659.
soybean noodles (5,000), which were accompanied by kimchi and cubed radish kimchi. The soybean buckwheat noodles were served in a cold soymilk based broth, accompanied by shredded cucumbers and Asian pears
Located near exit 4 of Gyeongbokgung on subway line 4.
"Doenjang ramyeon'' (3,500 won), as one can easily imagine from the name, has "doenjang'' (fermented soy paste) as its base for the soup. This is recommended for those who do not like spicy soup.
"Haejang ramyeon'' (3,500 won) is made with "bugeo'' or dried pollack. "Haejang'' literally means "chasing a hangover'' and pollack is believed to be one of the most effective ingredients for getting rid of a hangover.
A rice ball and two boiled eggs are offered for free, as well as a glass of iced tea Take subway lines No. 4 or 7 to Nowon Station and take exit 6. It is about 100 meters away from the exit. Open from 10 a.m. to 11 p.m.
Located in Seorae Village in Bangbae-dong, the small shop offers the best of beans, from coffee beans to their specialty, red beans.
"Uhmji'' literally means "thumb'' in Korean, and like the fairy tale character Thumbelina, the shop is indeed tiny.
Uhmji Bean's specialty is the "pat'' or red bean. In the winter, it offers "patjuk'' or red bean porridge (4,000 won and served from October to April), which is perfect to warm oneself up in chilly weather.
In the summer, however, the shop offers patbingsu (4,000 won and served from March to October)
Located on the main street of Seorae Village. Walk straight toward Bangbae middle school until you find the Uhmji Bean on your right next to Woori Bank.
Doenjang jjigae, or soybean paste soup comes sizzling hot in a black earthenware bowl. The best way to go about consuming this is taking an empty bowl and dumping in the contents of your stainless steel rice bowl, then mixing in helpings of the banchan, spoonfuls of doenjang jjigae, a big squirt of sesame oil and a couple heaping scoops of gochujang, or chili pepper paste.
The result is a remix of very spicy bibimbap (literally, mixed rice) featuring a dose of vegetables.
Price: 10,000 won English: None Telephone: (02) 3482-7626 Subway: Gangnam Station, line No. 2, exit 6 Parking: Difficult to find, some on street Hours: 6 a.m. to 11 p.m., seven days a week
Kimchi sujebi (4,500 won). Sujebi is a soup with vegetables and dough flakes. In the soup, it had kimchi slices. The soup was simple and clean. The broth main base - clams.
Located in an underground floor of an anonymous building next to the Coffee Bean on the main alley leading to the university’s main gate , around “Edae” an abbreviated term for Ewha Womans University. The place is called Jayeon Maeul (02-312-3800), or a natural village in English.
This pandemic really freaks me out! But my travel plan has been done even before this occurred. Parents, friends and even my cat, Naruto has voiced his concern. Naruto said "Why are you not afraid of H1N1 but you are afraid of ghosts and scary movies?" Heck..if only Naruto could speak, hehe.
As of now, the death count in Malaysia is 51.
My precaution:
1. Be healthy, be healthy, be healthy - enough sleep, no emotional interference, no JUNK FOOD? No!! Exercise? Hmmm.. I am wearing a mask right now in the office. How do I look? Do I look like optimus prime? ;)
2. Get a travel insurance - I'm going to get the HSBC one just because all my accounts are there. Easier. I already have an annual one but to be on the safe side, to get an extra travel insurance cause hospital bill would be sky-high if I am ever admitted overseas.
3. Write a will - Ack! Am I dying? H1N1 death is at such an alarming rate and without a proper antidote, betcha I will write a will. The worst I had seen in the news was this 12 year old child died in one day because of it.
I have booked the first three farms with WWOOF Korea
1. Farm in Busan - I will have access to places like Haeundae and Gwanganri beach. I will be doing paddy farming (same like in Chiba, Japan) and looking after cattle. Kekeke..I never even raise a cattle in Malaysia. My father would LOL at me!
Why I shoot to Busan instead of Seoul? Because the Busan Jagalchi Festival will be around 18th October, so right after I finish Wwoofing here I will be taking a 1 or 2 days checking out Busan city and meet some of my friends there.
2. Farm in Jeollanam-do - After the Busan Jagalchi Festival , will check out the Gwangju Kimchi Festival. Then will be Wwoofing at this farm to help them harvest paddy, potatoes, cabbage , pear etc. Some people inform me that Jeollanam-do's cuisine is amazing. Kimchi and Cornbread are raving about it. I'm curious!
Then early November, I will go up to Seoul cause a few Malaysians friends coming. We will paint the Seoul city red + Nami Island + Seorak Mountain.
3. Farm in Daejeon - One of my friends' wishes is to board the bullet train. I am not that fancy of it since I have tried the one in Japan for a few times going to Tokyo, Osaka and Hiroshima. It would just feel the same, I guess. But for the sake of testing a different ground, we would try the KTX from Seoul to Daejeon. After that both of us will be wwoofing near Daejeon.
Once my friends return to Malaysia, I will be checking out the other farms in Gangwon-do or Gyeonggi-do. I'm not entirely sure yet. Maybe I might go to Gangwon-do, because that is Kim Heechul's hometown. Hahah..what a lame excuse! But Gangwon-do's scenery is just pretty (I love autumn) and I'm dying to test out snowboarding. Will my bones endure the extreme cold? But the sight of a man snow-boarding is just too damn cool! Will it be nerve wrecking? I can't wait!
Picture by Stewart =W= I love how the word 'option' shown under the board. It's so captivating! Breathtaking picture! Imagining myself chilling out like that..hehe.
Rome is a fascinating city bringing visions of mystery, romance, and history. No matter where you look, you will hear or read about the unique and interesting happenings of Rome. Rome is an important city in today’s world as the seat of Catholicism and has been an important part of the history of the world spanning an existence of 2500 years.
The birth of Rome according to whether you listen to legends or records began somewhere between April 753BC (legend) and the 9th century (record). The small village is today the center of Rome where you will find many ancient structures. When Rome was first founded, the main language was Etruscan and of course, the main population was Etruscans. By 500 BC, the Romans took control of Rome from the Etruscans and the Roman Empire began to materialize. In 44BC, Augustus established the Roman Empire after many emperors and wars made Rome the largest city in the world. However, the great fire of Rome during the rule of Nero in 64AD could have been the end of this powerful city, but even though the majority of the city was destroyed, it was the beginning of a new Rome.
By the 3rd century, Europe was in danger along with the great city of Rome. The dangers and even evasions were on the minds of the Romans. Emperor Aurelian finally completed the wall surrounding the city of Rome.
The population of Rome declined and many of the buildings of the Medieval era began to erode. During the late middle ages, Catholicism began to be strong and the Pope established a home here, which today is known as Vatican City. At this time, the Holy Roman Empire was founded.
The Renaissance came to Rome in the 15th century and such magnificent works of art in the way of architectural were created like the Saint Peter’s Basilica and the Sistine Chapel. From the 15th century until 1800, Rome saw many changes from beautiful artwork to various Popes as well as monarchy governments. In 1861, Italy finally became a united country.
Today walking through the streets of Rome you can find many historical structures, buildings, ruins, monuments, and parks from days gone by all standing to remind visitors of the vast past and power of the Roman Empire. With the various guided tours available, you can capture the love, passion, and power of this great city as well as embrace some of the worlds most rare and exquisite works of art whether in the way of monuments, sculptures, or paintings.
A trip to Rome, is more than just a vacation, it is a step back in time where you will feel the passion of Romans, the struggle of the Empire, and the faith of the early Christians. A family vacation to Rome is one that will leave every member of the family with memories that will last a lifetime.
Rome is a fascinating city bringing visions of mystery, romance, and history. No matter where you look, you will hear or read about the unique and interesting happenings of Rome. Rome is an important city in today’s world as the seat of Catholicism and has been an important part of the history of the world spanning an existence of 2500 years.
The birth of Rome according to whether you listen to legends or records began somewhere between April 753BC (legend) and the 9th century (record). The small village is today the center of Rome where you will find many ancient structures. When Rome was first founded, the main language was Etruscan and of course, the main population was Etruscans. By 500 BC, the Romans took control of Rome from the Etruscans and the Roman Empire began to materialize. In 44BC, Augustus established the Roman Empire after many emperors and wars made Rome the largest city in the world. However, the great fire of Rome during the rule of Nero in 64AD could have been the end of this powerful city, but even though the majority of the city was destroyed, it was the beginning of a new Rome.
By the 3rd century, Europe was in danger along with the great city of Rome. The dangers and even evasions were on the minds of the Romans. Emperor Aurelian finally completed the wall surrounding the city of Rome.
The population of Rome declined and many of the buildings of the Medieval era began to erode. During the late middle ages, Catholicism began to be strong and the Pope established a home here, which today is known as Vatican City. At this time, the Holy Roman Empire was founded.
The Renaissance came to Rome in the 15th century and such magnificent works of art in the way of architectural were created like the Saint Peter’s Basilica and the Sistine Chapel. From the 15th century until 1800, Rome saw many changes from beautiful artwork to various Popes as well as monarchy governments. In 1861, Italy finally became a united country.
Today walking through the streets of Rome you can find many historical structures, buildings, ruins, monuments, and parks from days gone by all standing to remind visitors of the vast past and power of the Roman Empire. With the various guided tours available, you can capture the love, passion, and power of this great city as well as embrace some of the worlds most rare and exquisite works of art whether in the way of monuments, sculptures, or paintings.
A trip to Rome, is more than just a vacation, it is a step back in time where you will feel the passion of Romans, the struggle of the Empire, and the faith of the early Christians. A family vacation to Rome is one that will leave every member of the family with memories that will last a lifetime.
History Paso Robles ; It can be fun knowing a bit of the history of an area that you are about to travel to. Paso Robles is full of history and can be further studied once there. However, history tells us that Paso Robles was once known as El Paso de Robles and is Spanish for “The Pass of Oaks”. The town was shortened to Paso Robles when California gained independence from Mexico.
History Paso Robles ; The Native Americans and the Mission Fathers knew of Paso Robles for the hot springs that were flooding the area. During the Mission Period the Padres were so impressed with the healing powers of the hot springs that they would make annual pilgrimages from such missions as: Santa Yenez, San Luis Obispo, and San Antonio to bring their sick to bathe and drink the healing waters. As a matter of fact, it was the Franciscan priests from Mission San Miguel who constructed the first mineral baths. At the time, they did not realize what they had started because several years later many adopted the same idea.
History Paso Robles ; Early on the padres at the missions imported certain grapes and grew them at the missions. The grapes were turned into sacramental wines but some exported certain brandies that were also a product of the sweet grapes. After the missions were abandoned, there were Europeans that came to the area and revived the vines and started to import other varietals that would produce other types of wine. The word seemed to have gotten out and the area became increasingly popular. The pioneer settlers were attracted to this area and later established cattle ranches, apple orchards, almond orchards, dairy farms, and more vineyards.
History Paso Robles ; Centuries later the 26,000 acres that makes up Paso Robles was purchased with a land grant for $8,000 in 1844, which was after the Gold Rush era. Two brothers by the names of Daniel and James Blackburn teamed with a partner and purchased this land; they were tired of traveling the area and thought the region was beautiful and had great potential. They donated two blocks to the city for a public park. Over several years the park was planted with regional plants like cacti and then a grandstand was built, which was enjoyed by many for years to come. James Blackburn and their partner took part of the claim and became ranchers. However, Daniel was more of a businessman and decided to create a town. After the Civil War, Daniel sold half of the town site to a Drury James, who was the uncle to the famed Jesse James.
History Paso Robles ; Between the two businessmen, they had envisioned a city that would offer first class amenities to its guests. The area would offer wonderful luxuries such as:
· Sulfur bath houses from the natural springs of the area · Stores offering a variety of goods and the latest fashions · Hotels · Cottages for extended stays or larger parties · Public bath houses with hot springs of the area
The area boomed within two years. It seemed that the visions of the two men had become a reality. They didn’t realize what more it would become. The area not only boomed but also grew very prosperous. The vision that started to grow into reality grew into a popular hotspot that has been compared to Napa Valley for wine production. It is now a hip little town that is full of culture, as reflected in the many Paso Robles wines, the oils, the food, the entertainment, and the people.
History Paso Robles ; In 1864, the first El Paso de Robles Hotel was constructed and featured a hot mineral spring bathhouse. In 1891, a newer and larger hotel was constructed using technology that would insure it to be fireproof. The hotel was truly grand and offered its guests amenities like
· Seven acres of glorious gardens · A 9 hole golf course · Library · Beauty salon · Barber shop · Various billiard and lounging rooms · An improved hot springs plunge bath that was considered the best of its time · 32 individual bath rooms
Not only did regular travelers to the area enjoy these fine accommodations but many a famous person made the grand hotel their home. This included people the likes of
· Ignace Paderewski – This famous piano player made this grand hotel his home for over three months. His arthritis had gotten so bad that he thought he would never perform again, but the hot mineral springs cured his arthritis. He would go on to play and then make the Paso Robles area his home. · Jack Dempsey – The boxing champ · President Theodore Roosevelt · Phoebe Apperson Hearst – The mother of William Randolph Hearst · Actors – Douglas Fairbanks, Boris Karloff, Bob Hope, and Clark Gable · Baseball Spring Training – The Pittsburgh Pirates and the Chicago White Sox would stay at this hotel and reap the benefits of the hot spring mineral baths to soak their sore muscles after a day of hard training.
History Paso Robles ; There has been a large movement towards restoring the areas that started this resort area. The townspeople of Paso Robles have done so much to restore the Victorian homes, the downtown area, and now even the original hot springs run again. Certain mission areas have been restored for tours for people to get an insight into the original founders of the area. The western heritage that was the foundation of this area is not only acknowledged but celebrated and can be seen within the architecture, museums, food, and in many more areas. It is a wonderful resort area that offers so much to its visitors.
History Paso Robles ; Mother Nature has caused several set backs to the area but the people do not seem to let this get them down. They only get stronger by rallying together and building the area up. It is a tight community that welcomes visitors from all over to learn about their area.
Now that you know a bit about how this special place came to be, it's time to explore how to spend your time while there. There are many wonderful places to stay, see, and fine foods and experiences to take in, the best of which can be found here in these pages, as your essential guide to the Paso Robles weekend.
Welcome to Paso Robles, California. The area is the up and coming wine Mecca of Central California. If you are looking for a great place to spend a weekend then Paso Robles, California is just for you. Paso Robles may be in the heart of wine country, but it offers so much more than the norm. There are shops, it is the home of the California Mid-State Fair, museums, great food, wonderful views, and a relaxing atmosphere with an eclectic mix of entertainment. This is a kind of destination where you can fill your days with activities or just sit back and enjoy the breathtaking views while sipping a local wine.
The Paso Robles area is located in the Coastal Mountain Range, so you are able to capture the beauty of the mountains, the ocean, and the deserts. Each season offers incredible natural beauty. The winter will bring green hills, the spring will show vivid pink and white almond blossoms, there are lush vineyards to gaze upon during the summer, and fall will offer beautiful colors and a bounty of new wines and local harvests. All you need to do is pack a picnic, pick a road, and fall in love with the area.
Paso Robles is a city within San Luis County and is a part of the California central coast. It lays half way between Los Angeles and San Francisco, along California Highway 101. It is also connected to the San Joaquin Valley to the East via Highway 46.
There are several ways to access this wine Mecca. A few of these include:
By air – charter a plane from the Paso Robles Airport or the regional airport used is the
San Luis Obispo County Airport in San Luis Obispo
By train – use the Amtrak Coast Starlight line
By bus – Greyhound bus service has runs that go directly to Paso Robles
By car – perhaps flying into San Francisco area or Los Angeles, renting a car and taking a scenic ride to the area is more your style
However you choose to make the journey, you will not be disappointed. Now, let’s see what this wonderful area has to offer to the traveler looking for a new adventure or to that traveler who is looking to just get away from it all.
The big buddha of Phuket is located Nakkerd Hill (Khao Nakkerd) tower high above Karon and located between Karon and Chalong on the west side on the east side of the mountain to the Big Buddha statue called "Phraputthamingmongkol Eaknakakeeree" the most amazing views over the bay and the southern Chalong Phuket.
The enormous statue itself is 45 m high and has a base diameter of 25 m
The little path up the hill can only be opened in Phuket the eastern side of the road connecting Phuket town and Chalong.
The giant Buddha construction history Group of friends about 10 years, walked through the forest Nakkerd Hills between Chalong and Kata, where they stumble on the place, with stunning vistas on both sides of the Iceland - Chalong Bay, put in the same direction and on the other hand, seemed to be less than over the Andaman Sea and Kata. They thought it would be, is an ideal place for the purpose - something that would become known as the favorite in Phuket Sunset View calved Phromthep.
Since time was, and discussed it with your friends over and over again, the idea of change. Place in the mountains, they quickly agreed, it would be perfect, not only as a point of view, but as something much more ambitious, and the spot that the Buddha, at least much more: a large picture of Lord Buddha. The project has been hiccups, at least that was the fight over the mountains of red tape required to get permission to build a jungle which is the normal height limit construction. But at the end of the paperwork completed and construction began in February last year.
Funds come from donations to the massive structure. "This project is large and requires a lot of money. But so far we are managing fine. I am surprised at the amount of assistance which we have received from all who knows about this project. It seems they all want to be part of it," explained Suporn Wanichkul President Mingmongkol Faith 45 Fund, which was formed to build a Giant Buddha.
Ton Sai waterfall is Tepkrasattree District, Talang Division. There is a relatively small waterfall and cool refuge with different types of trees. Pour a large quantity of water during the raining season and located in Khao Phra Thaeo National Park. The jungle, many species of wild animals around the waterfall. The waterfall is designed for relaxation. There is a lot more trees 100 years old. Specifically, a rare species of palm called the governor of the Palm or White Back Palm found on Ton Sai Waterfall Phuket. The waterfall is also different types of birds.
Phra Nang Sang Temple is located just before the intersection near Thalang Baan Ta-Kien. It is opposite the entrance to Khao Pra Taew Wildlife Conservation Center. It is said that this old temple was built just after the War of Nine troops during the period of the two heroines of Phuket (Tao-Tao-Tepkasadtree and Srisunthorn). Although others say it was built in the period Pranang-Leud-Khaow (white blood princess).
For me it is the temple that my family is most familiar to us at every special occasion like New Years Day, Songkran, etc. This year, my family has also come here for the anniversary of the death of my grandfather . So I have a chance to take a walk around the temple again. Somewhere, the circumstances of the temple has changed too.
Many new buildings replace a pleasant space to the exclusion of trees from the church that the Department of Fine Arts serves. There is also a new church, it is very elegant and enormous. Historical murals, including the drafting of beauty queens from each day of the week are listed in.
Hmm ... Have you ever heard stories about this temple? As Pranang-Leud-Khaow history or the Thalang treasure map? Let me tell you briefly. Pranang-Leud-Khaow princess was a city on the continent. It was framed and found guilty of serious and sentenced to execution. Before his execution, she asked permission for the pilgrimage time. When she went to Phuket, it decided to build Pranang Blood temple to promote and allow for Buddhism. Once it was executed, his blood has become a white purity and innocence.
Wat Phra Thong in Thalang, Phuket. It's located near Highway 402, owes its construction to the following legend: a boy has custody of water buffalo, which he attached to a piece of metal protruding from the ground to using a hemp rope. Suddenly, the boy died, but it seems his father in a dream and told him about the piece of metal. The father started digging and came upon a statue of Buddha in gold casting. The Buddha can not be fully excavated and a temple was built on the site in 1785. When Burma Thalang conquered a second attempt was made to dig up the statue to which it broke in two. Half have disappeared, but the other is still in the temple, where it can be accessed. Gables and windows of buildings of the temple rich exhibition of sculpture.
National Museum Talang in Phuket is located in the east of Highway 402 near the main two heroines of the monument just close Tlag Airport Road south of Phuket City in the Central Museum of folk culture show Phuket, Phuket in Thailand's history, crafts from the south. Thailand is a regional figure of 9 century Hindu deity Vishnu.
One can explore the museum within the general Thai history. Some old artifacts, the history of bears in Thailand There are also sections on the different types of people in Thailand - China, Islamic nature (sea gypsies) model of the house, etc. with UPS shows how these people lived.
Section is devoted to the Heroines of Phuket Tlag people mobilized to defeat the Burmese in 1785 ad, which both parties are very popular throughout Thailand but particularly in Phuket and Tlag Road school and Temple are named after them.
Outside the National Museum, Phuket Tlag a kind of tsunami memorial - a sculpture show you back to health. National Museum in Phuket Tlag also open daily 9am-4pm, item fee only 30 baht
Thao Thep Krasatri and Thao Sri Soonthorn are the Phuket’s most famous monument in Amphoe Thalang is the memorial statue of the heroines Thao Thepkasattri and Thao Sisunthon, who rallied islanders in 1785 to repel Burmese invaders.
History of two heroines of Talang
Lady Jan was the first child among five children of Jom Rang Baan Kien and Mrs. Ma Siia . Lady Jan was beautiful, generous and courage's; therefore, she was well loved and adored by her parents arranged a marriage with Mom Pakdibhuthorn, her first husband. Lady Jan had 2 children: Miss Prang and Mr. Thien . After Mr. Thien 's birth, Mom Pakdibhuthorn was passed away. Lady Jan married again with Phraya Pimon-Aya (Khan) who later becomes Phraya Surintharacha Pi-Aya (Khan). She had another 2 children. When her parents were old, Lady Jan took care of her family business in Thalang.
Like her elder sister, Lady Mook , the second child of the family is smart, courageous and adorable. But there was no evidence with whom she married.
After their father, Jom Rang Baan Kien died. Phraya Surintharacha Pimon-Aya (Khan) took the position of the governor of Thalang. Lady Jan , his wife was appointed as an assistant to the Governor (commonly know as Mae Muang ). Thalang town was peacefully governed. After Phraya Surintharacha Pimon-Aya (Khan) died. King Rama I ordered to put Lady in jail at Pak Phra camp for being accused as her husband's indebtedness to the country.
During that time, Burma had king Pudong of Ang Wa as a king. In 1785 Burma prepares a troop of 144,000 solders targeting to Siam in their pursuit of boundary expansion. King Padung and his mighty army defeated Raman , Thai Yai, Maneepura, and Ya Kai. The war was known as 9 troops. Burmese troops also defeated Pak Phra camp. Lady Jan, a prisoner of Pak pra camp escaped to Baan Mai Khao, Baan Saku, Baan Kien and Thalang Town. Yee-wun, a Burmese commander-in-chief, led a troop along the west coast defeating Siam primary town: Kraburi, Takuapa, and Takuatung. Thalang was their ultimate target.
Burmese troops invaded Thalang. It was such a bad time since a governor died and all the people were in despaired. Fortunately, Thalang has Lady Jan and Lady Mook who were a gist of Thalang people. They gathered villagers from Baan Saku,Baan Nai Yang, Baan Mai Khao, Baan Kanan, Baan Lipon, and Baan Raing, and organized a defense at Wat Pranang Sang to protect Thalang from invasion.
Burmese troops build a camp at Khok Chana Pama and prepare for assault Thalang. Lady Jan , Lady Mook and Department of Town Planning set a camp and cannons to counterattack the Burmese troops. The plan was to slow the troops down and to shorten their foods supplies as much as possible, in order to lure the Burmese troops. Thai woman were dressed in solder uniforms withtin-toated sward made from coral wood. This was purposely to set a scene pretending Thalang had more soldiers' fillings in a camp during the might.
The war took about 1 month. Burmese troops were fatigue while foods were short of supplies. In addition, Thalang people used potassium nitrate and firearms to counterattack the Burmese troops. At last, a coral tree at the Burmese camp was cannoned down. The Burmese troops were timid and finally retreated on Monday March 13, 1785 , which was later call Thalang glorious day.
After the war was over, King Rama I heard Lady Jan and Lady Mook 's courage in defending Thalang town. King Rama I bestowed nobel titles upon Lady Jan, Thao Thep Krasatri, and Lady Mook, Thao Sri Soonthorn. The two heroines rued Thalang town, and Thalang become peaceful ever since.
Sai Yok National Park is not as well developed as the other national parks, but it is Kanchanaburi's most accessible wilderness areas. Inside the main entrance of the park you can find limestone caves, the remains of a bridge on the Death Railway and Japanese ranges (actually little more than piles of bricks). There is also a network of clear streams that bubble up from sources in the park, and a cave where people want to see clouds of bats stream out at dusk. Unfortunately the park is not a detailed hiking maps or much in the way of visitor information to English speakers.
