京都 Kyoto: The Modes of Transportation

April 26, 2013, 2:37 am

≫ Next: Samsung Galaxy Note II now also in Red Ruby Wine

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Modes of transportation in Japan are basically similar with Malaysia (buses, taxis, private cars, bicycles, trains, ferries...) except that they have bullet train that is super cool and let's not start the topic of how sophisticated are their public transports, especially the spider web train map with 10 exits and above at each station. So huge that I heard stories of people got lost in the station. 

Only in Japan will you see a guy all suit up, riding his bicycle to work.

One thing I really admire the Japanese is their effort in conserving the resources, from household waste sorting to minimal automobile usage. (Perhaps their cars are so expensive that only a small portion can afford it?) Nevertheless, everyone did their part. 

It was already sunny afternoon when we came out from Nijo Castle and decided to take a bus ride back to hotel for check-out.

市バス City Bus

"Raku Bus is a system built and operated by the collaboration of 11 highway bus companies in Kyushu."

Would be a pretty scene when all the leaves turn red.

バス代 Bus Fare

220yen(RM8.80) for adult and half price for children.

I left out Kyoto taxi photos in this post but it starts at 640yen(RM25.60) for the first 2km. 

Those that I have encountered cannot fully conversed in English, yet they do know a few phrases and are very friendly even though there's language barrier. The evidence of it is the photo above where the taxi uncle gave both my niece and nephew cute stickers, some even gave them sweets. Such hospitality.

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Samsung Galaxy Note II now also in Red Ruby Wine

April 28, 2013, 12:50 am

≫ Next: Samsung Galaxy S4 Malaysia Launching

≪ Previous: 京都 Kyoto: The Modes of Transportation

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It so happened that I dropped by at one of the Samsung outlets to check on their S4 when I saw another customer inquiring for this new Red Ruby Wine color of Samsung Galaxy Note II. 

Well, the fact is this color of Red Ruby Wine was only available at Korea and it is now also available at Malaysia! Such a good news for us Malaysian that we have now a new Note II color option. 

Sophisticated design of glossy cover with ruby wine metallic inner.

Turn this around under the lighting and its beauty varies. No more bored plain color that yells for a casing or phone makeover yet one that pretty enough to make its own statement. 

Ruby wine, a color as if a lady dressed in Elie Saab and click-clacked her Christian Louboutin signature red sole heels upon making her Cinderella entrance into a grand ballroom under the envious eyes of others, such noble, elegant and confident. 

 

Samsung Galaxy Note II Red Ruby Wine is unique in its own and easily goes with other fashion pieces, be it in casual outfit of the day or attending special occasions. A phone with such pretty color that it acts as fashion accessories.

Better still, Samsung Galaxy Note II Red Ruby Wine comes in limited edition, so no worries of having the exact same phone with the lady standing next to you!

Get it now at Samsung Outlets with the price of RM 1,999!

For more information, kindly visit:

Samsung Mobile Malaysia Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/samsungmobilemalaysia 

Samsung Malaysia Twitter: https://twitter.com/SamsungMalaysia

Samsung Galaxy S4 Malaysia Launching

April 29, 2013, 2:20 am

≫ Next: Journey to Outskirts Area of Kyoto

≪ Previous: Samsung Galaxy Note II now also in Red Ruby Wine

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Samsung Galaxy S4 has been the talk of town with its motto of "life companion". 

So much have I heard about it, saw about it (through some online demonstration videos), anticipating about it (pre-teaser going on one week prior to the launching) and might as well seeing it in person at its launching.

Samsung Galaxy S4 was officially launched at Malaysia last Saturday, 27th April 2013 at major shopping centers (Sunway Pyramid, The Gardens, Berjaya Times Square and Lowyat Plaza). 

Unlike other exclusive phone launching events, Samsung didn't do it in a confined space and keep the invitations limited to VIPs and medias, but rather an open event in a trailer bus, bringing the entertainment on street where everyone is welcomed.

Local celebrities Liyana Jasmay and Awal Ashaari certainly spiced up the event upon entering Berjaya Times Square with smile.

Liyana and Awal demonstrating some of the phone features to surrounding audience.

Both Liyana and Awal were being interactive by going round, asking audience to try one of the Galaxy S4 main features, the Air Gesture.

A touchscreen phone that no longer require a touch, but simple hovering or swiping at a distance. It is quicker and relatively convenient to operate the phone (though not advisable) while you are driving. 

Don't like the song played? Swipe through it and it'll change to the next one. How smart is that?   

Samsung Galaxy S4 girls with colorful balloons.

 

Violinists team led by Malaysia's funkiest violinist, Dennis Lau.

Always in his white coat, Mr Kwon Jae Hoon as Managing Director of Samsung Malaysia Electronics along with other VIPs officially launched Galaxy S4.

The launching then followed by unexpected flash mob performance featuring Elecoldxhot, one of Malaysia's famous street dancing team. 

They were all dressed up in blue color in accordance with Samsung brand.

Finally the event has ended at Berjaya Times Square and they moved on to Lowyat Plaza as the last stop while I went checking out the almost not earth bound masterpiece creation, Galaxy S4.

Thanks to Daniel, my companion of the day as photographer and as S3 user can I do this S3 versus S4 comparison. Which of course, this comparison only limits to the design and dimension.

S4 (White) screen size of 4.99 inch compared to S3 (Blue) 4.8 inch.

Relocation of speaker from top (S3 Blue) to bottom left (S4 White). 

Camera flash position also changed from left (S3 Blue) to bottom (S4 White) of the camera.

There's been an upgrade in rear camera resolution from 8mp to 13mp!

S4 (White) side dimension of 0.31" versus S3 (Blue)'s 0.34". 

S4 is also less curvy with the metallic side bar design.

By the way, S4 is 3 grams lighter than 133g of S3.

I wouldn't compare the features of S4 with S3 simply because it is not comparable.

Samsung has added in so many cool features that I do not think anyone can resist.

Dual Shot

Have you ever went for a gathering be it long lost schoolmates or even first meet up with new friends and the waiter just screwed up your group photos? Believe me, I have had that experience countless times. How I wish to take the group photos myself but I just couldn't take photo and be in the photo at the same time. 

Now Samsung is really creative by letting both phone cameras (front and rear/back) to shoot simultaneously and fit into the same image. 

Other than front camera fish eye function as showed above, there are also other designs of love shape, stamp and others. You are also free to position yourself!

Eraser

This camera feature of Galaxy S4 just leave me in awe! As a traveler and freelance photographer, it is just unavoidable to have people constantly walking in front of the camera while I was shooting this very amazing world heritage architecture. So I ended up taking much longer time just to do a clear shot. Now with this brilliant camera addition, you can clear the crowd. The eraser mode will capture all 5 photos at once (make sure you don't have a shaky hand), identify and highlight any moving subjects which you can choose to erase or keeping it. No more ruined travel photos!

Smart Scroll

Smart scroll is one of another feature extended from Samsung eye-tracking technology, enable you to scroll the screen using your eyes only.  

Smart Pause

Using the same eye-tracking technology, you'll never have to lose any scene from your dramas or favorite movies anymore! Smart stay feature will pause your screen for you while you look away and will resume once you look back into the screen. 

If you must know, Galaxy S4 operates on Android 4.2.2 Jelly Bean.

Selling at the price of RM2,199, Samsung Galaxy S4 is available in both white frost and black mist color.

Alternatively, you can always get it with other telco plans!

See it in person at Samsung outlets and be amazed!

For more information, kindly visit:

Samsung Mobile Malaysia Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/samsungmobilemalaysia 

Samsung Malaysia Twitter: https://twitter.com/SamsungMalaysia

Journey to Outskirts Area of Kyoto

April 30, 2013, 2:58 am

≫ Next: 京都 Kyoto: 嵐山渡月橋 Arashiyama Togetsukyō

≪ Previous: Samsung Galaxy S4 Malaysia Launching

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After saying sayonara (goodbye in Japanese) to Citadines Karasuma Gojo Hotel, we hopped on the rental car and off we go to the outskirts of Kyoto.

Fresher air with blue sky.

So simple and serene.

We stopped by at FamilyMart to replenish on our snacks.

納豆手巻寿司 Natto Rolled Sushi 126yen(RM5)

Natto is Japanese traditional food of fermented beans. Typically eaten with rice, it is one of the Japanese popular food for breakfast. Though claimed to be rich source of protein, some may not prefer natto because of its acquired taste and sticky paste that resemble spider web once pulled apart. 

赤飯 Sekihan 130yen(RM5.20)

 Literally translated as Red Rice for auspicious occasions, Sekihan is usually consumed during celebration. Glutinous rice, azuki beans (red beans) and black sesame are its main ingredients.

明太子おにぎり Mentaiko Onigiri 130yen(RM5.20)

Mentaiko is the marinated roe of pollock and being one of the common ingredients in Japanese cuisine, it is commonly eaten with onigiri, which is Japanese rice in in the form of triangle and being wrapped around with seaweed.

カシュー＆アーモンド Cashew & Almond 150yen(RM6)

Häagen-Dazs 紫いも Purple Sweet Potato Flavor 284yen(RM11.40)

桂川 Katsura River

That's all for my short post today. 

For those of us who worked hard throughout the year, it's time to rest.

Happy Labour Day!

京都 Kyoto: 嵐山渡月橋 Arashiyama Togetsukyō

May 2, 2013, 12:38 am

≫ Next: Lunch at Kyoto, Japan

≪ Previous: Journey to Outskirts Area of Kyoto

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Repeatedly reminding self that it's Thursday, I almost cannot bring myself to work after the Labour Day holiday yesterday.  It was filled with mom's homecooked soup and dinner along with some spring cleaning of my room in which if I failed to do it, I won't have any space to walk in. 

Since there was holiday in the middle of the week, most of us opted for a trip or getaway by taking AL (Annual Leave) for the rest of the two days, be it Monday+Tuesday or Thursday+Friday.

If you are one of them, enjoy your holiday!

If you didn't plan for it, oh well, welcome to the group of having Thursday Blues. 

I hope the following photos of the beautiful Arashiyama would lighten you up!

There were lots of souvenir shops along the street.

わさびもち Wasabi Mochi (Glutinous Ricecake) 

漬物 Tsukemono 

Literally being translated as pickles, Tsukemono is an important part of Japanese diet. They are usually served alongside with rice as おかず(Okazu) side dish. 

The Japanese staff at counter was kind enough to remind us that some of the tsukemono were not able to go on flight.

桂川 Katsura River

Nothing beats the tranquility of sitting at the bank of Katsura River, enjoying the breeze while listen to the sound of its running water and swaying trees . So pure and serene as if I was the only one there and everything else just doesn't matter. 

渡月橋 Togetsukyō

The well-known and central landmark of 嵐山 Arashimaya, tourist district at western outskirts of Kyoto. It is popular during spring for sakura and fall for red leaves.

Lunch at Kyoto, Japan

May 3, 2013, 12:29 am

≫ Next: Super Kitchen Chilly Pan Mee 辣椒板面 @Taipan

≪ Previous: 京都 Kyoto: 嵐山渡月橋 Arashiyama Togetsukyō

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So we were starving in the middle of nowhere at outskirts of Kyoto when we saw this restaurant. 

It was not the usual ones with names shown in front, but it seemed to be renovated from a residence. 

Some of the food photos along with display to get our attention.

Japanese Low Table with Seat Cushion

Japanese style room with washi(和紙) window coverings, giving the room optimum sunlight.  

No fan or heater was needed as we enjoyed the autumn breeze.

It took us some hard times climbing those steep stairs though. 

お茶 (Ocha) Green Tea

きつねそば Kitsune Soba 740yen(RM29.60)

See my previous post to understand why there was no kitsune (fox) in the kitsune soba.

天ぷらそば Tenpura Soba 840yen(RM33.60)

Soba with 七味唐辛子 Shichimi Togarashi, a common Japanese chili pepper flakes mixture containing 7 ingredients.

山菜そば Wild Vegetables Soba 740yen(RM29.60)

Though we have ordered the wild vegetables soba for my mom who is a vegetarian, the broth was however 鰹 katsuo based.  Katsuo belongs to a kind of fish which also known as bonito. It is often used in the form of flakes on top of たこ焼き takoyaki and also as main ingredient of broth. 

チャーハン Fried Rice

The owner was kind enough to make my mom fried rice with funghi and carrot that was not available in the menu. 

漬物 Tsukemono 

Pickles as the side dish.

That's all for my short post on Japanese food and this is my last post for the week. 

To all my Malaysian friends who will be travelling back to hometown in voting for GE13, I hope you have a safe trip.

Super Kitchen Chilly Pan Mee 辣椒板面 @Taipan

May 7, 2013, 8:31 pm

≫ Next: Afternoon Tea @Ten28ight Boutique Cafe

≪ Previous: Lunch at Kyoto, Japan

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Several years ago when I was still in internship, I was blessed to have colleagues who seek high and low in order to have good food as lunch. Once, we came to this Chilly Pan Mee at Taipan and since then I have never forget the taste of it. With no blog at that time, I have no medium to share but it is different now.

Thanks to Agnes who brought me to this Chilly Pan Mee again for lunch few days ago.

Super Kitchen Chilly Pan Mee 5th Branch at Batu Road, Taipan

We was amazed at the ability of this chinese-originated Pan Mee in capturing the stomach of others such as Indian and Japanese(no kidding, they just sat next to me), other than Chinese itself. 

Homemade Fried Dumpling (Sui Kow 水饺) RM6 (Small, 4 pieces)

Crispy deep fried dumpling of wanton skin that came with minced meat, carrot and yam bean.

Not too oily as something to munch on while waiting for the famous chili pan mee.

Anchovies-based Soup of Sweet Leaves (Sayur Manis) and Beaten Egg Whites

that came together with Chili Pan Mee served in dry.

Chili Pan Mee RM6

A generous portion of Pan Mee nicely presented with toppings of fried shallots, minced meat, deep fried anchovies, poached egg and some spring onion.

Homemade Chili Flakes

Customize the spiciness of Pan Mee according to one's preference and tolerance level.

Beat the running egg yolk, mix everything together and voila....

Egg yolk added the extra creamy texture to Pan Mee as if it just slipped down my throat. Add that with chili flakes that would escalate the spiciness in my taste bud. Not to mention crispy deep fried anchovies along with flavorful minced meat that were on their way deep down to my stomach. 

It was indeed an eating pleasure with everything harmonizing inside the mouth.

Super Kitchen Chilly Pan Mee

47-1, Jalan USJ 9/5S, Taipan, 

47630 Subang Jaya, Selangor. 

 03-8023 0530

Check out their website for locations on other 7 branches.

Afternoon Tea @Ten28ight Boutique Cafe

May 8, 2013, 11:00 pm

≫ Next: Random Japan Photos

≪ Previous: Super Kitchen Chilly Pan Mee 辣椒板面 @Taipan

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"An afternoon tea set for 4 pax at a discount of 55%."

Seeing the title of this deal alone would make most ladies go crazy and the next you know, Groupon voucher is already in your hand. I know it because it was the exact same process which I have gone through. 

I hold a little bit of advantage here since I know the owner of this cafe personally as my friend's mother and also get to try their food ahead at Heritage Boutique Cafe opening. 

It was an afternoon full of girls chat with 3 pretty ladies from Elements Magazine: Sheila, Hui Yen and Agnes. Thank you for making my day!

Not much of options available for the drink, only coffee or tea. 

I have chosen Earl Grey tea and it was refillable.

Afternoon Tea Set (4 Pax)

* 4 x Tarts 

* 4 x Parfaits

* 4 x Macarons

* 4 x Savoury Pastries (Quiche, Curry Puff, Samosa)

* 2 Cakes

* 4 x Drinks (Coffee or Tea)

for only RM52 instead of RM114.90

Ten28ight Boutique Cafe does not serve its afternoon tea set in full western cuisine, but rather a fusion with local taste by adding in samosa and curry puff. 

Mushroom Cheese Quiche Slices

Curry Puff

To be honest, I'm spoiled by my mom's homemade curry puff. One of the reason I love hers is because she would always take the extra effort to make this crispy spiral flaky pastry. It was not an easy task because she spent few hours just to make 100 of them, by mixing 2 types of dough overlaying each other to produce the difference in texture, hence more layers of flaky pastry would mean the more crispy it will be. Because of the extra effort, spiral curry puff would be slightly expensive than the normal ones. 

I appreciate the fact that they served us this and it was homemade.

Samosa

Despite these being fried savory, they weren't oily at all because it was only fried the moment we sat down and ordered. This attention to details is what would make the customers return. 

Parfaits and Macarons

We got a little bit messy when having the parfait because it keeps falling apart. Nevertheless, it was good with fresh fruit of strawberry and blueberry. 

The texture of macarons was a bit inconsistent, but I understand it was hard to standardize that. I had the lemon flavor. Though it was of artificial flavoring, at least the sugar level was decent not to cover the lemon flavor. 

Fruit Tarts and Cheese Tarts

Chocolate Mousse Cake

Light and not too filling.

Mille Crepe (Original)

Overall, desserts here maintain their consistency on sugar level, which was not too sweet for consumption. With the generous portion that was given to us, I would say that it was quite worthy even if I were to pay the full price. 

Ten28ight Boutique Cafe

(Same row with True Fitness)

No. 10 G/F, Crystal Villa 2, 

Desa Sri Hartamas, Jalan 22B/70A,  

Kuala Lumpur 50480

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Random Japan Photos

May 9, 2013, 10:00 pm

≫ Next: Instagram

≪ Previous: Afternoon Tea @Ten28ight Boutique Cafe

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To be honest, I am already out of title in order to post more lovely Japan photos, so "random japan photos" it is. Not much of description too since these were all randomly taken on the go inside the rental car. Believe it or not, this is truly a different perspective to view Japan.

Thank God it's Friday and enjoy your weekend!

Instagram

May 12, 2013, 9:24 pm

≫ Next: Kwerkee = Quirky

≪ Previous: Random Japan Photos

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I've decided to do my post a bit different today by introducing this Instagram account of mine. I wanted to start posting photos earlier but it didn't work on my last phone due to incompatibility. From Instagram, I share all my current photos be it delicious food, traveling scenery or just me. In other words, it sort of like a teaser to my upcoming blogposts. Other than that, I like the fact that I can follow on others too, so it's a two way understanding through photos which is quite cool. 

This is my account: http://instagram.com/cherylchanphotography

Alternatively, you can always find me using the username of "cherylchanphotography".

Let's know each other more through Instagram! 

Kwerkee = Quirky

May 13, 2013, 7:52 pm

≫ Next: Hotel Universal Port, Osaka

≪ Previous: Instagram

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Having a boyfriend who is into graphic and interior design just got me influenced on artsy stuff. We would always drop by those shops that sell quirky decor and they would never fail to put a smile on our faces. At this advanced era where internet is easily accessible, I need not bring myself out, but rather a click to this store of unique pieces, Kwerkee.

Kwerkee.com, a website that collaborates with many other boutiques in featuring over 100 unusual designed items per day. Pronounced as “quirky”, it sells items so rare, fun and unique that is just impossible to find them elsewhere.

Should you found items that are so in love or as presents to your friends’ housewarming party but also in the midst of struggling which to let go due to financial hiccup at the moment, be sure to thanks Kwerkee for coming up with this 0% installment payment plan for over RM500 in a single order. Now that the order has been made, the parcel shall arrive at your doorstep with unique packaging and not to mention the delivery take as fast as 3 days. By the way, the more you shop, the more badges you can collect to earn special privileges!

Not only that, make any purchase from 13^thMarch to 19^th May and you will get 50% Rebate of your entire purchase value in Kwerkee credits! 

Now, a special promotion just for you, my dear readers to receive RM20 credits and stand a chance to win up to RM330 shopping credits upon signing in through this link http://www.kwerkee.com/invite/Cheryl!

For more information, visit their Facebook fanpage, Twitter or Instagram.

To have a more convenient shopping experience, download Kwerkee app from appstore here.

Hotel Universal Port, Osaka

May 15, 2013, 3:29 am

≫ Next: Fruitaste Steamboat 创意酿豆腐火锅馆 @Kota Damansara

≪ Previous: Kwerkee = Quirky

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Hotel Universal Port was the third and last hotel for my 6D5N Japan trip October 2012.

You'll see why this hotel deserves a post on its own. 

Upon entering the lobby, we got attracted to the Hallowen decoration then we realized it was only 10 days away from it. Nevertheless, the celebration was throughout the whole month of October. 

Ethan(my nephew), on the other hand, got attracted to this aquarium filled with sea fishes and corals at the back of reception counter. 

Greeted by this rectangle little aquarium embedded on the wall with jellyfish swimming upon arrival at our floor. 

Standard Twin

Huge room of 28 square meters with 2 single beds and long sofa. 

The basic amenities of TV, telephone, refrigerator, cups, water boiler and safe. 

Light control besides the bed.

Bathroom with separated sink, bathtub and toilet seat.

Though the door was transparent, there was another main wooden door for the bathroom in case you needed the privacy.

Hair dryer, shower cap, shampoo, toothbrushes, bubble bath, hand soap.

Another side of Japan that I love: The Washlet!

Commonly known in Japan as Washlet, it is regarded as one of the most advanced type of toilet worldwide. Not only that you can control the power and type of the spray, you can even control the position  of the nozzle to be higher or lower. Don't even get me started on those amazing functions of oscillating, massage and even power deodorizer. This is the Japan technology that you'd like to stay longer on top of the toilet seat just to get spa on your anus. 

There are a lot of facilities that this hotel is providing, for example:

Power Recharge Station

30 mins usage for 200 yen (around RM8)

There's a password to lock and unlock the box so you could walk around, waiting to collect when it's ready. 

A lot of vending machines here selling snacks and drinks. The one thing Japan won't be lack of. 

In conjunction of Halloween month, Hotel Universal Port set up this maze at the lobby area.

See the face of this little happy girl who went in for 4 times and still enjoying it.

View at another side of Hotel Universal Port where my niece and nephew had some great time blowing bubbles. 

Morning has just became better with this view from our room. 

Evening view overlooking Universal Studio Japan from the corridor. 

Proximity to USJ was one of the reason we stayed at this hotel.

All these were only for RM400 per night per room for 2 person (no breakfast included). 

Hotel Universal Port

Ranked #6 out of 246 Hotels in Osaka (Tripadvisor)

Website

Fruitaste Steamboat 创意酿豆腐火锅馆 @Kota Damansara

May 17, 2013, 1:20 am

≫ Next: Won Korean Dining @Eat Paradise, 1 Utama Shopping Centre

≪ Previous: Hotel Universal Port, Osaka

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When I first received an email from Henry asking to review his restaurant's new concept dishes of fruit-based dishes, fruit-based soup and even Yong Tau Foo made of fresh fruit, I did raise one side of my eyebrow, couldn't help but being rather skeptical. Really? Fruit and Steamboat?

From many years of my gastronomical experience, fruit is only supposed to appear before or after the main dish instead of together, am not the too health conscious one that would have fruit as main meal.

However, this was only the first impression, read on for my final verdict:

Simple and modern design of grey table and chair sets, ceiling lamp in black and orange along with monotone swirling pattern wallpaper.

(left) Passion Apple RM5.90

(right) Orange Honeydew RM5.90

Home Style Yong Tau Foo RM1.20 each

(From left to right) Star Fruit, Mango, Pineapple, Jambu

The fruit which did not overripe during the cooking process and surprisingly maintain its state of fresh and crisp managed to balance out the excessive greasiness of what supposed to be in a deep fried dish.  

Even Daniel, my companion of the day, took his first bite of this yong tau foo in his favorite mango and nodded in approval. 

In fact, what's not to love for eating yong tau foo of fish paste combine with the fragrance of fruit in light taste but crispy deep fried texture?

Minced Pork Rolls RM7.90

Aromatic minced meat stuffed into roll shape and deep fried to perfect golden brown. Its crunchy texture with tasty meat filling in between definitely deserved to be one of the chef's recommendations.

Fruitaste Set 创意火锅套餐 RM33.60 for 2 pax

Fruit Lover Soup Base

(Left) Fresh & Sweet 美白清爽水果锅 

(Right) Sweet & Sour 开胃酸甜水果锅

Fresh & sweet soup of chicken stock was on the salty side yet giving out aromatic fragrance of apple and pineapple fruit. Sweet & sour on the other hand was of the same chicken stock but with star fruit and passion fruit, a rather appetizing combination. These were the most innovative and special steamboat broth I've ever had. Best of all, these came with my steamboat set so no charges applied. 

Unlike the usual steamboat sessions where the thick layer of oil accumulated on top resulting from the meat fat, it is not visible here. I think the fruit based soup did a good trick on that. 

Alternatively, there are still clear soup and tomyam soup, making 4 soup options in total. 

Pig Skin Fish Roll RM6.90

Homemade Fish Ball and Pig Skin Fish Roll

Tofu Pok and Pork Tendon Balls（吊片猪肉丸）

Sliced Pork RM 9.90

Alternatively, upgrade to Pork Slices Set for RM39.90, an addition of RM6.30 from Fruitaste Set.

Fried Onions with Home Made Chili Sauce

 As reverse to the sukiyaki, Japanese way of having cooked meat in raw beaten egg before consumption, Henry, the Fruitaste owner recommended us to dip it in egg instead before putting it into the hotpot. Though the addition of egg elevated the taste, I have to admit it somehow lacked the smoothness of raw egg.  However, this is still prefect for friends who would like to try something different yet feeling unease about having them raw. 

Thanks again to Henry, the one who would always play around with steamboat in recommending the addition of chili padi at the end of our session just to try something different. We added it to the soup of  sweet & sour and it has just became similar with tomyam soup but made fresher with the fruit. 

Honestly this was the biggest fruit tart I have ever seen. Comprising of star fruit, dragon fruit, strawberry, green and red apple, this fruit tart has 3 layers of sponge, cream and custard. A good dessert that was not too sweet to my liking. 

Opened in 30th March this year, Henry has used 6 months to come up with this innovative fruit-based dishes concept and another 2 months just to fine tune the taste. That is the perseverance shown by him and the taste approved by both our stomachs.  

 By the way, if you think the photos in the menu were good, it was taken by our very own Henry ;) 

Fruitaste Steamboat 创意酿豆腐火锅馆

No 32A-1, Jalan PJU 5/10, 

Dataran Sunway, Kota Damansara,

47810 Petaling Jaya, Selangor.

03-61513823

Facebook Fanpage

Won Korean Dining @Eat Paradise, 1 Utama Shopping Centre

May 21, 2013, 10:39 pm

≫ Next: 大坂 Osaka: 鎌倉パスタ Kamakura Pasta

≪ Previous: Fruitaste Steamboat 创意酿豆腐火锅馆 @Kota Damansara

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It was my birthday on March when Jason asked me to choose any restaurants from Eat Paradise, One Utama for the dinner. We walked a few rounds but settled down for Won Korean Dining as this boyfriend of mine hasn't really get to eat his first proper Korean food yet. To be frank, I'm not a fan of Korean food, at least not in Malaysia, tried a few times but it just doesn't click. Authentic Korean cuisine back at their country during my visit last year was not bad though, especially their Kimchi, taste so much better compared to here. 

But still, how can my denial on that certain country of food influence Jason's judgement? Hence, we have decided to give it a trial, whether it gains a yes or no in Jason's opinion. 

Simple interior of wooden tables and chairs along with Korean culture illustration hanging on the wall.

Iced and Hot Green Tea RM3 each

It's like a norm to order one hot and one cold drink for us: hot for me and cold for Jason.

Side Dishes

of Kimchi Cabbage, Kimchi Cucumber, Bean Sprouts and Pumpkin Pancake.

I would push the Kimchi Cabbage aside in some Korean restaurants because of its overly pungent flavor but not in Won Korean Dining. This was definitely not my best Kimchi, but for someone who didn't like Kimchi to get her plate refilled, I think they did a pretty good job. 

Kimchijigae (Kimchi Stew) RM22

Love might not be the word, but a simple yes and nod will do. Again, it was balanced with spiciness and natural taste of the ingredients. 

  

Samgyupsal (Roast Pork Belly) RM30 each

Minimum 2 portion to place the order. Such beautiful texture of the meat to feast the eyes.

In Korean restaurant, whenever one orders grilled meat, the attentive staffs would always drop by, check on the meat, overturn it and even cut it into smaller pieces for easier consumption. Though this might be a point of good services, but it is not in my opinion. I wouldn't want anyone to interrupt us during conversation then we have got this very awkward moment of staring into each other or simply looking at the action of the staff.  That.Silent.Moment. 

Aromatic with crisp texture, succulent yet not that oily at the same time. 

Lettuce and Julienne Cabbage with Carrot

Salted olive oil, spicy bean paste, raw garlic and green chili. 

With green lettuce as base, we've added in julienne veges then mix and match the sauces before putting the delicious pork belly meat on top.

We have also tried another way of eating by simply dipping it into salted olive oil.

Overall, it was a good Korean dining experience for both Jason and me. Nothing much to complain about.

Won Korean Dining

Level 2 Eat Paradise, 

One Utama Shopping Centre,

1Lebuh Bandar Utama, 

Petaling Jaya, Selangor.

03-77223089

大坂 Osaka: 鎌倉パスタ Kamakura Pasta

May 22, 2013, 11:44 pm

≫ Next: 大坂 Osaka: Universal Citywalk

≪ Previous: Won Korean Dining @Eat Paradise, 1 Utama Shopping Centre

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Back to Osaka post again for my Japan trip last October. 

 It took us a mere 10 minutes walk from our Hotel Universal Port to reach Universal Studio and Universal Citywalk Osaka.  

Roller-coaster at Universal Studios Japan.

Main entrance of Universal Studios Japan during Halloween month.

It was a lucky shot with clear sky and visible half moon.

Photos of USJ are coming soon but not in this post because judging from the amount of photos I took, they just wouldn't fit in.

Universal Citywalk Osaka

is a district of retails, food and beverages and even entertainment which located adjacent with Universal Studios. Universal City subway station is conveniently located at the end of this busy district.

The famous Hard Rock Cafe at Osaka.

We didn't have any itinerary for the night, just stroll around the area looking for a decent restaurant to have our dinner. 

鎌倉パスタ Kamakura Pasta 

きのこのバター醤油パスタ  Mushroom Pasta in Butter Sauce 1,029 yen (around RM41)

フレッシュサラダピザ  Fresh Salad Pizza 399 yen (around RM16)

ベーコンほうれん草の冷製キッシュ  Cold Bacon Spinach Quiche

フレッシュバジルのトマトソースパスタ   Tomato Sauce Pasta with Fresh Basil Leaves

ティラミスのバニラアイス添え  Tiramisu Served with Vanilla Ice-Cream 

This set cost us 1,329 yen (RM53).

I wish I can describe more on the taste but the trip was months ago. I'm proud to even state the prices after digging them out from a bunch of old receipts. 

Till then!

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大坂 Osaka: Universal Citywalk

May 27, 2013, 3:28 am

≫ Next: Bonjour Garden Bakery Cafe @Kota Damansara

≪ Previous: 大坂 Osaka: 鎌倉パスタ Kamakura Pasta

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Located adjacent to Universal Studios Osaka, Universal Citywalk is a district of retails, food & beverages and even entertainment with Universal City subway station accessible at one end.

Takoyaki Museum

It was our mission of the night to search for some light food.

Momi & Toy's Creperie

Meal tickets vending machine for patrons to choose their flavors at a glance and pay in advance.

However, the machine only accepts up to 1000yen in cash. For patrons who have only 5000yen and above, they are requested to deal with the staff directly.

By employing the concept of meal tickets machine, it not only save the time of waiting patrons in making up their mind of food order, but can also concentrate more on the operation. In this case, only one staff is needed at the stall who is responsible to prepare the order according to meal ticket.

バナナチョコ生クリーム 420 yen (RM16.40)

Banana Chocolate Crêpe with Whipped Cream

Pancake Days

シンプルパンケーキ (メープル＆自家製バター付き) 550 yen (RM22)

Simple Pancake with Maple Syrup and Homemade Butter

Certainly not worth the price I've paid for.

MOS Burger

Established in June 1972, MOS burger has extended its influence to many countries such as Taiwan, Singapore, Hong Kong and others with 1,432 stores at Japan alone. 

とびきりハンバーグサンド厚切りベーコン  420 yen (RM16.40)

Enormous Hamburger Sandwich with Thick Sliced Bacon

Not as huge as advertised but it was still a satisfying burger with pork patty, thick-sliced bacon and sauteed onions.

Bonjour Garden Bakery Cafe @Kota Damansara

May 27, 2013, 8:12 pm

≫ Next: Les Jeux d'Hermès (The Games of Hermès)

≪ Previous: 大坂 Osaka: Universal Citywalk

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I saw its beauty lying inside the photos of other blogs and thought my blog could use some of it too. Yet this thought of mine has not been executed until Jason decided to bring me there for afternoon tea set.

Bonjour Garden, a bakery cafe with French setting of lush greenery, fountain and even seats that resemble Mediterranean boat. 

The French ambiance of Bonjour Garden would have been brought out better if the background music were to be of French music rather than Korean waves. 

Sheltered from the rain and shaded from the sun, its design was to ensure presence of bright sunlight throughout the cafe. However, heat that comes along with the sunlight is rather difficult to be cooled down with blowing fans alone. I wouldn't imagine myself sitting here for lunch to get a free sauna session.

Bonjour Garden has been adopting another approach for their menu with newspaper inspired layout.

Cheese Souffle RM3.80

Simple, fluffy and delicious cheese cake

(Left) Tiramisu RM6.50

Traditional tiramisu; coffee sponge with mascarpone cheese

(Right) ChocoRaspberry RM6.50

Chocolate & raspberry mousse cake with almond sheet

We were disappointed to learn that the afternoon tea set were sold out at 4pm with less than one third of the seats occupied. Jason then suggested to try out their March promotion of Buy 3 for 2. The cakes were of soft textures and low sweetness level. Average with nothing to wow about. 

Passion Fruit Mojito

Chamomile Tea

for others who would like to have their full meal here. 

Government tax of 6% is applicable here.

Bonjour Garden

Central Park Building, Jalan PJU 5/13,

Dataran Sunway, Kota Damansara,

47810 Petaling Jaya, Selangor.

+603-61407587

Website

Facebook

Les Jeux d'Hermès (The Games of Hermès)

May 28, 2013, 11:07 pm

≫ Next: Burps and Giggles @Ipoh

≪ Previous: Bonjour Garden Bakery Cafe @Kota Damansara

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It was on 18th May, Saturday that I've attended Les Jeux d'Hermès (The Games of Hermès) at Victoria Institution, a prestigious school here in Kuala Lumpur under the invitation from Agnes.

So many photographers at the event I felt as if I was walking on the red carpet. Yet this lady who brought her DSLR just couldn't hold still and be star for one day. Shutter clicking sounds from her Nikon D7000 can be heard throughout the day, even during sports time. 

Lucky me for not being the only odd one with Hui Yen, Sheila and Agnes as companions. (check out their photos too)

Lots of Hermès scarf for guests to take photos with and I must admit they've trained those Hermès ladies so well on tying scarf(s) we all look unique in our own way.

Mini games: bowling, miniature golf, darts, ring toss, hopscotch, basketball, badminton and soccer.

These games have driven my adrenaline to a fairly high level with only 3 minutes as limit for each station. The hall was filled with laughter and claps at the end of the session.

Food and beverages were exactly what we needed to replenish our body while waiting for the scores.

Sitting in the garden on long bench with outdoor umbrella keeping us shaded from the sun and water-spraying fan to cool us down, a little French music at the background just took my mind away from the hot weather of Malaysia.

Thanks to two athletes in my group, I managed to take home a silver medal.  

Thanks again to Agnes for the invitation. You ladies made my day at The Games of Hermès!

Burps and Giggles @Ipoh

May 30, 2013, 1:19 am

≫ Next: Samsung Note 2 now in Amber Brown!

≪ Previous: Les Jeux d'Hermès (The Games of Hermès)

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I have made many trips to Ipoh whether to satisfy my craving for the food or to meet up with my love one, yet I've missed out on this special cafe that many have blogged about. I may have heard and seen about Burps and Giggles on other social media but to be there for real in witnessing the creativity this team behind Indulgence has poured into the cafe is an experience beyond words can describe. 

They've transformed the colonial building spanning across 3 shop lots that were once served as a dressmaker's business but at the same time maintaining charm of the golden days with vintage items I may even have long forgotten of its existence. 

Pair that ambiance up with burgers they have been so proud of and I would say it'll be a perfect lunch. Though it was sold out during my last visit but another trip to this special cafe in Ipoh is necessary. 

My words shall end here and let my photos speak to you instead. 

Orange Juice RM8 & Moroccan Mint Tea RM7

Thyme-based Creamy Mushroom, Potato Cubes, Cheese and Basil Crepe RM15

Burps and Giggles 

93&95, Jalan Sultan Yussuf, Ipoh, Perak.

05-2426188

Open 8am-8pm, except Tuesdays.

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Samsung Note 2 now in Amber Brown!

June 3, 2013, 10:19 pm

≫ Next: 大坂 Osaka: Captain Line

≪ Previous: Burps and Giggles @Ipoh

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After a long weekend holiday at one of the best retreats in Malaysia, I am pronouncing my day as "Tuesday Blues" instead of the usual Mondays. 

Speaking of colours, they are often associated with many different emotions, personalities and so on. Colours can also give different impression of us to others when it comes to daily attire. 

For my friends who know me well, I often got attracted to the colour Brown, especially those with vintage and classic design. To me, brown is the colour of simplicity, steady and practical. In fact, two of the items in my must-get-list are Jeffrey Campbell's brown leather Lita and Mulberry Alexa brown; wearable to all occasions and can be easily match with any other accessories.  

While colours play an important role in expressing ourselves, looking into our daily essential item such as wallet and mobile phone can enhance or even change the impression to others. Good news for us Malaysian,  Samsung has added the colour of Amber Brown into one of its best selling mobile phones, Galaxy Note 2. 

It has the sophisticated metallic surface with glossy cover that varies when you turn it around. 

With Note 2 in brown colour, it can now portrays the reliable, genuine and approachable side of the holder. 

Take a better look at this Samsung Galaxy Note 2 Amber Brown limited edition for real at Samsung Outlets. 

For more information, kindly visit:

Samsung Mobile Malaysia Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/samsungmobilemalaysia 

Samsung Malaysia Twitter: https://twitter.com/SamsungMalaysia