Koh Lipe Sunrise in Thailand Picture of the Week

Koh Lipe Sunrise in Thailand is my Picture of the Week. This beautiful island located at the Taruto National Park is one of Thailand's hidden gem. With no vehicles and basic infrastructure, Ko Lipe in Southern Thailand is one of the premier locations for Backpackers, Island Lovers, Scuba Divers and Sun Seekers. Having been here twice in one year during the off season and the peak season, I have to say that this is one of the most beautiful islands on the West Coast of Thailand.

For those interested in visiting this unique place, you may want to read up about Getting to Koh Lipe. It is crucial that you know what to expect at this island as it is unlike the other popular islands throughout Thailand. Boat schedules are limited and only available from certain areas. There are no ATMs on the island while everyone here moves around on foot. For photographers, land or underwater, there is abundance of choices to photograph here. By the way, I also took this unique picture about Koh Lipe Beach, Sun and Rain. Overall, if you are an avid island lover, this is one of the islands you must visit and best if you can visit the beach and catch the beautiful Koh Lipe Sunrise.

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KidZania Kuala Lumpur at The Curve

KidZania Kuala Lumpur at The Curve in Petaling Jaya is set to open by the middle, late 2011 January 2012. Known as an Educational Theme Park for Kids, this 80000 square feet theme park will be the talk of town and the place to bring your kids for an adventure of a lifetime. The award winning indoor park is also very popular in cities like Tokyo and Jakarta besides its home country in Mexico where the first KidZania Theme Park was started back in 1999. Kids will actually play in a replica of a real city in here, complete with shops, streets and buildings which are made and run by children. This will be the ultimate City for Kids.

Kidzania KL or Kuala Lumpur as it will be branded will also be located on the 6th and 7th floors of a seven-storey mall called Curve NX, located at the junction corner of the Curve, Ikea and Tesco. For the locals, it was where the former McDonald's building used to be. It will also be connected to the Curve Shopping Mall via a Sky Bridge. The massive project is also jointly developed by Khazanah and Boustead Group of Malaysia where a total of RM50 million was invested. They expect the theme park to have 500,000 visitors annually. Seems like all the other outlets around the world have an aeroplane sticking out of the building or located somewhere in the premises. For the Kuala Lumpur outlet, there is an AirAsia Airbus Plane sticking out of the building which you simply cannot miss.

Jobs at KidZania Kuala Lumpur: For those looking for jobs/positions at KidZania, please contact: contact@kidzania.com.my

Replica model of KidZania Kuala Lumpur (Pic from MalaysianInsider)

Activities available at KidZania;

• Security bracelets will be provided for visitors to trace the location of their children while in here.
• Learning the value of money as kids will be paying for items and services with the local KidZania Currency called KidZos. 
• Children learn  about the adult world by getting involved in over 100 role-playing activities.
• Over 100 occupations such as pilots, firemen, policemen, chefs, surgeons and more for kids to experience.
• Kids will experience opening a real bank account and receiving cash cards that can be used at ATM's in KidZania.
• Each child can role-play and choose to become a CIMB customer, Honda F1 driver, AirAsia pilot or cabin crew, NST reporter, Media Prima TV presenter or work for Pos Laju.

Six local Malaysian companies will also be participating in the sponsorship of KidZania Kuala Lumpur. They are AirAsia, Honda Malaysia, New Straits Times Press, CIMB Group and Pos Malaysia. EWith this sponsorship, each company will be committed to funding the development and display of several lifelike and child-sized fixtures of their respective business operations at the theme park. 

KidZania in Jakarta (Image courtesy of http://www.prweb.com)

Where is KidZania in Malaysia?

• KidZania is located by the Curve Shopping Mall and Ikea in Mutiara Damansara.
• It is located in the new Shopping Mall called The Curve NX.
• This was the former 24 hours Mc Donald's Building at the junction of the Curve, Tesco and Ikea.
• It is also connected by a SkyBridge to the Curve Shopping Mall.

Requirement:

• Children aged 3 to 14 years old.
• Only adult-accompanying children are allowed to enter the theme park
• Plans to include a spa or a reading corner where parents or chaperons can unwind while waiting for the children.

Entrance Fees at KidZania Kuala Lumpur

• At the moment, the entrance fees/ticket prices are not confirmed 100% but on a last report, the fee was said to be set at RM50.00 per child per entry.
• However judging from the counterpart in KidZania Jakarta, prices there are around US$12-US$13 (RM36-RM39) for kids, while accompanying adults pay a lower price of about US$9 (RM27). 
• Once the entrance fees are announced, we will update it here. 
• Children can take part in 60 activities over five hours.
• It will be a one time payment which include the price of other activities.

Opening Date for KidZania Kuala Lumpur: To Be Confirmed and announced here.Technically the opening is scheduled for December 2011.The opening date has been pushed to January 2012.

Map to KidZania KL at the Curve, Mutiara Damansara

View KidZania at The Curve in a larger map

Official websites
KidZania Official Website
KidZania Kuala Lumpur Website (Under Construction, to be open soon)

KidZania Jakarta Website

*Main Photo credit to ExpatMumSilverJewelOman.blogspot.com

For parents with kids, this is going to be the ultimate play land for your children. Take note that another super theme park Legoland Malaysia is also set to open in 2012 at Iskandar Johor. Make sure you bring your kids here once it opens and rest assured, there will be a massive crowd there for at least a few months after opening. I can only imagine this place on the weekends. For those who have more than 2 kids, best to start saving now as this place will be addictive! Kids these days are so fortunate that there are so many kids activities to do in PJ/KL. Back in the day, we simply used to hang out at the padang (playground). This is an excellent chance to shower your kids with fun and excitement at KidZania Kuala Lumpur at the Curve.

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Events in Sabah 2011 April to July

Events in Sabah 2011 is a compilation of happenings around the Malaysian state of Sabah. This year focuses on a number of interesting events which are well spread throughout the coming months. Among them are some of Sabah's unique festivals which can only be experienced here in North Borneo. Below are a list of the major events and festivals located around 'The Land Below the Wind' for the months of April, May, June and July. If you are traveling there during this period, you should make it a point to catch some of these unique festivals.

While most of the festivals do not require an entrance fees, there are some music events that do so take note and double check on this matter. One of the must-see events would be the Harvest Festival or Kaamatan which takes place throughout the month of May. Multiple events will be held state wide and one unique event to catch is the Unduk Ngadau 2011 or Harvest Beauty Queen Contest that will be held at the KDCA center just a short drive from Kota Kinabalu city. A myriad or colours welcome you while the many different cultures and tribes of Sabah will be there showcasing their specialties in the form of attire, culture and lifestyle. Apart from that, catch the amazing and colourful Regatta Lepa 2011 in Semporna town where stunning decorations on local traditional boats are showcased by the sea town here. These are just some of the many festivals available during Events in Sabah 2011.

Regatta Lepar boats (Picture courtesy of http://www.borneo-aquanerds.com/)

Regatta Lepa, Semporna

The Regatta Lepa unique regatta where the traditional Bajau (Sea Gypsies) compete with their authentic sailboats for the grand prize here. Also known as the Regatta Lepar, this is the 18th year the event is being held here. Each family will send in their best looking traditional boat all prepped up and with a female representative on board. The boats pass a panel of judges to determine the overall winner. Apart from this, other activities are included in this bustling town which serves as the main gateway to the islands of Mabul and Sipadan for scuba diving. If you love the unique culture of Sabah, this is one of the events you should not miss.

Date: 22-24 April 2011
Organiser : District Office of Semporna
Contact Person : Mr. A.M Ibnu Hj. A.K Baba (District Officer)
Telephone : +60 89 781518
Fax : +60 89 781472 / +60 88 265540
Email Contact : AMIbnu.Baba@sabah.gov.my
Event Website : http://regattalepa.sabahtourism.com

Sabah Adventure Challenge 2011

The 12th year and this extreme challenge goes through the famed Crocker Range with contestants participating from all over. Here, they go through various activities like mountain biking, hiking, trekking and bamboo rafting. If you are an extreme sport lover, this is one you should not miss in Sabah.

Date: 22-24 April 2011
Organiser : Sabah Adventure Challenge
Contact Person : Mr. Aman Avtar S. Sandhu, Race Director
Telephone : +6013 8811757
Fax : +6087 414199
Email Contact : info@sabahadventurechallenge.com

Sandakan War Memorial

Anzac Day in Sabah 2011

This annual event commemorates servicemen from Australia and New Zealand who fought in Sabah Borneo  during World War II, particularly prisoners-of-war (POW) who took part in the Death March from Sandakan to Ranau in 1945. The Sandakan War Memorial Park  and Kundasang War Memorial are two of the places where activities will be held at.

Date: 25th April 2011

Organiser : Sandakan Municipal Council / Office of Australian War Graves, Canberra
Contact Person : Mdm. Catherin Chua / Mdm. Charlotte Sarossy
Telephone : +60 89 273753
Fax : +60 89 272112
Email Contact : Catherin.Chua@sabah.gov.my / Charlotte.Sarossy@dva.gov.au

Sabah Fest 2011

Presenting Sabah's magnificent cultural and natural heritage that are richly embedded in folklore, the Sabah Fest 2011 prelude to the statewide Harvest Festival celebration is bound to bedazzle spectators with a cultural extravaganza that incorporates dance, music, fashion, food and more. Held over a month long throughout the state of Sabah, it is the opening day that is filled with much myriad of cultures in Kota Kinabalu city.

Date: 30th April to 1st May 2011

Organiser : Sabah Tourism Board Sri Pelancongan Sabah Sdn Bhd
Contact Person : Ms. Susan Shahira, Event Manager
Telephone : +6088 232121, 212121
Fax : +6088 265540, 212075
Email Contact : shahira@sabahtourism.com

Kota Kinabalu City Harvest Festival 2011

The Kadazandusun and Murut community offer thanksgiving for a bountiful harvest during this significant celebration at the KDCA Cultural Center in the district of Penampang. Join in the merriment and enjoy a variety of cultural dances, traditional sports competition, traditional fare and the highly anticipated Unduk Ngadau beauty pageant. Something out of the ordinary for the tourist.

Date: Throughout May - KDCA end of May.

Organiser : Kota Kinabalu City Hall
Contact Person : Mr. Joannes Solidau
Telephone : +6088 521800
Fax : +6088 219175
Email Contact : joannes@dbkk.sabah.gov.my

Borneo International Marathon 2011

Marathon runners from all over Malaysia and across the globe will traverse the scenic coastal roads of Kota Kinabalu for a chance to win attractive prizes during this exciting fund raising event.

Date: 1st May 2011
Organiser : Championship Sports Events Sdn Bhd
Contact Person : Mr. Andrew Voon, Director
Telephone : +6088 218833, +6012 8036333
Fax : +6088 217833
Email Contact : andrew@borneomarathon.com
Event Website : http://borneomarathon.com

Sabah International Fishing Tournament 2011

Big Game Fishing Tournament in Sabah for 2011. This off-shore fishing competition not only promotes the sport, but also aims to encourage conservation of marine resources. Expect some massive catches from the many teams taking part in this competition.

Date: 27-29 May 2011
Organiser : Sabah Angler’s Association
Contact Person : Mr. Albert Yong / Mr. Richard Leong
Telephone : +60 14 8651060 / +60 19 8818015
Fax : +60 88 235825
Email Contact : sabahanglers@gmail.com

Unduk Ngadau Finalist Kota Kinabalu Sabah

Tadau Kaamatan Finals (Unduk Ngadau)

The Kaamatan month long celebration will culminate at Hongkod Koisaan, the Kadazandusun Cultural Associaiton Hall (KDCA) in Penampang. Join in the merriment as the local folks sing, dance, eat and play traditional games. This is also the main stage for the final round of the Unduk Ngadau (State Harvest Beauty Queen) pageant! Travelers should make their way to catch this unique celebration held once a year. Something totally different and out of this world.

Date: 30-31 May 2011
Organiser : Kadazandusun Cultural Association (KDCA)
Venue : Kadazandusun Cultural Association (KDCA), Penampang
Contact Person : Dr. Benedict Topin
Telephone : +60 88 713696
Fax : +60 88 713350
Email Contact : bovis@asia.com

KK Jazz Festival 2011

Calling all Jazz lovers to the Kota Kinabalu Jazz Festival 2011. The fifth installation of the jazz festival promises to be another ground breaking experience with a great line up of local and international artistes. This fund raising event will support various community projects in Sabah.

Date: 17-18 June 2011
Organiser : SPArKS & Rotary Club of Kota Kinabalu
Contact Person : Datuk Adeline Leong / Mr. Frankie Fu
Telephone : +6019 8539922 / +6016 8106438 (Frankie Fu)
Fax : +6088 222985
Email Contact : sparksmalaysia@gmail.com

Sabah Dragon Boat Race 2011

For the 26th year running and organised in conjunction with the Duan Wu Festival, this Chinese tradition has evolved throughout the years into one of the main highlighted sporting events in Sabah. This exciting race has attracted teams from as far as Australia, Hong Kong, Japan, China, Indonesia, China, Brunei and the Philippines. Rest assured there will be lots of photo opportunities here.

Date: 18-19 June 2011
Organiser : Sabah Tourism Board / Sri Pelancongan Sabah Sdn Bhd / Sabah Chinese Culture Association
Contact Person : Mr. Zachary Mobijohn
Telephone : +6088 232121
Fax : +60 88 265540, 219401
Email Contact : zachary@sabahtourism.com
Event Website : http://dragonboat.sabahtourism.com

Nunuk Ragang Festival, Ranau 2011

Held at Kampung Nunuk Ragang, Ranau to mark the installation of the Huguan Siou (paramount leader) and commemorate the original settlement of the Kadazandusun community. Visitors can scour for cheap finds at the tamu (open-air market) or enjoy events such as an adventure challenge and culture performances.

Date: 2-3 July 2011
Organiser : KDCA, Nunuk Ragang Cultural Festival Committee
Contact Person : Dr. Othman Minudin
Telephone : +6088 713696 / +6019 8828817
Fax : +6088 713350 / +6088 238751
Email Contact : kdchang@yahoo.com / Minudin05@hotmail.com

Agnes Keith House in Sandakan 

Agnes Keith Day Sandakan

Agnes Keith Day is held to commemorate the American writer of the famous non-fictional novel Land Below the Wind that made Sabah a world renowned destination of interest. The author's romantic experience with the local people, environment and culture inspired her to create this book. The general public including school children can participate in the various programs and activities that will be lined up at the Agnes Keith House in Sandakan. 

Date: 6th July 2011
Organiser : Sabah Museum / Sandakan Municipal Council
Contact Person : Mr. Joanis Ogak (Agnes Keith House Curator) / Ms. Catherin Chua (Sandakan Municipal Council)
Telephone : +60 88 253199 / +60 89 273994
Fax : +60 88 240230 / +60 89 272112
Email Contact : Joanis.Ogak@sabah.gov.my / Muzium.Sabah@sabah.gov.my / Catherin.Chua@sabah.gov.my

Lok Kawi Wildlife Park Open Day 2011

Lok Kawi Wildlife Park is located 25km from Kota Kinabalu and is one of the largest wildlife parks in Malaysia that is home to the rare Sumatran Rhinoceros, Borneo Pygmy Elephants, Orangutans and Proboscis Monkey. If you want to see some of the unique wildlife that Sabah has to offer, then make your way to Lok Kawi Wildlife Park.

Date: 7th July 2011
Organiser : Sabah Wildlife Department
Contact Person : Ms. Siti Nur’ain Acheh
Telephone : +6088 215353
Fax : +6088 222476
Email Contact : nurain.acheh@sabah.gov.my

Tip of Borneo Music Fest 2011

Tip of Borneo Music Fest 2011 will be held at Tanjung Simpang Mengayau in the northern district of Kudat. Be serenaded with classical favourites and contemporary tunes as the sun sets in the horizon. You won't want to miss this unique musical experience at one of the Sabah's most breathtaking locations!

Date: 16-17 July 2011
Organiser : Sabah Tourism Board / Sri Pelancongan Sabah Sdn. Bhd
Contact Person : Ms. Susan Shahira
Telephone : +6088 232121
Fax : +6088 265540
Email Contact : shahira@sabahtourism.com

Pesta Gambus Papar 2011

The gambus (lute) is one of the oldest stringed musical instruments made by the Brunei Community in the west coast of Sabah. A myriad of activities will be held for three days to celebrate the significance of the gambus to the local community at the 12th Pesta Gambus in Papar, Sabah Borneo.

Date: 21-23 July 2011
Organiser : Persatuan Masyarakat Brunei Sabah
Contact Person : Mr. Hazmaini bin Haji Awang Damit / Mr. Mahmood Kalong
Telephone : +6016 8401758 / +6019 8515846
Fax : +6088 381950
Email Contact : pmbspusat@gmail.com

Sabah International Folklore and Art Festival 2011

One of the festivals not to be missed, this is a chance to get to know the different cultures from across the globe while enjoying a variety of ethnic dance and musical presentations during the sixth edition of this annual festival. The highlights include the Grand Folklore Competition. This event also aims to introduce the State's unique visual products and talents while promoting tourism amongst the international participants.

Date: 22-24 July 2011
Organiser : Sabah Cultural Board
Contact Person : Mr. Joisin B. Romut
Telephone : +6088 259457 / +60198218718
Fax : +6088 264235
Email Contact : Joisin.Romut@sabah.gov.my / jromut@yahoo.co.uk
Event Website : http://www.sabah.gov.my/lks/page.asp?v=siffmain

You can also follow MalaysiaAsia on Facebook and Twitter for information about travel and events around the region. Some times at major events that I am attending, I will be doing live updates about it.

For the full list of many other unique events and festivals, you can visit the Sabah Tourism Event Website for all other details and timings. There are numerous smaller events that are featured on a smaller scale while the general list here are featuring the more prominent Events in Sabah for 2011.

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Floria Putrajaya Flower and Garden Exhibition 2011

Floria Putrajaya Flower and Garden Exhibition 2011 is back on the 9-17 July this year. For those of you who missed the previous exhibitions, you should make your way there to see some of Malaysia's most amazing floral and horticultural works of art on display here. Spread over nine days, the flower exhibition at Putrajaya is bound to please those who love gardening or enjoy flora. A family fun activity, you will see parents with kids, dating couples, housewives and photography lovers at this event. 

This years event sees a bigger crowd and some interesting participants local and international which are still to be confirmed. Rest assured there would be over 100 stalls while over 500,000 people are expected to visit this flower festival here in Putrajaya.

Some of the flower displays at the flower event in Putrajaya

Inside the air conditioned tents at Floria Putrajaya

At the Floria Putrajaya 2011 (Festival Bunga Dan Taman Putrajaya 2011) event, you will not only see creations of flora but you will be amazed with some of the designer creations which are housed in the air conditioned tents. Bonsai lovers will be pleased to know that there will be a number of these unique plants on display. Apart from these, there are also vendors selling orchids and flowers while a number of stalls selling horticulture related items will be there. Also to make things interesting, there are craft, clothes, art, food and drinks stalls available at the event grounds.

Entrance into the air conditioned tents

Stalls selling orchids at Floria Putrajaya

One of the custom designs at Floria 2010

Map of Floria 2010 which will be similar this year

Various stalls at the event

2010 Floria Event at Putrajaya and links
Floria Putrajaya Flower and Garden Festival 2010
Putrajaya Flower and Garden Festival 2010 Pictures
Rainforest Discovery Center (RDC) in Sabah for other Tropical Plants and Flowers


Floria Putrajaya 2011 Information:

Venue: Waterfront, Precinct 2, Putrajaya. This is near the main Boulevard road or where the Millennium Monument is located. Another landmark is opposite the Ministry of Finance building.  

Admission: FREE
Opening Hours:
9am – 10pm Monday to Thursday
9am – 12midnight Friday to Sunday
Free shuttle buses will be provided from Putrajaya Sentral to the event location with frequent service daily.
Phone: 03-8887 7137
Email: ppjonline@ppj.gov.my This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it
Floria 2011 Official Website

What to bring to Floria 2011

• Bring an umbrella or poncho in case it rains
• Water bottle and some snacks if you do not like buying hawker food
• Good walking shoes as parts of the area can get muddy if it rained earlier.
• Avoid using slippers or sandals here.

How to go to Floria Putrajaya in Precinct 2

• By Taxi: If you are taking the taxi from Kuala Lumpur, there is a fixed fare at KL Sentral of RM35 to Putrajaya. If you're coming from KLIA/LCCT, the taxi fare is about RM60-RM70 for a budget taxi.  
• By Train: From KL Sentral, take the KLIA Transit which goes to KLIA International Airport. The train runs once every 30 minutes, and takes 20 minutes to reach Putrajaya. The fare is RM9.50 one way or RM15 return.  
• Express Rail Link (ERL) - Hop on the ERL at Kuala Lumpur Sentral Station and disembark at Putrajaya Sentral Station. From the station, Take the Nadi Putra Bus to the FLORIA 2011 venue.
• By Bus: Buses from Sinar Kota in Kuala Lumpur to Putrajaya are available. They run from 6:30am to 10:00pm every day. The fare is RM3.50 and the journey takes from 45 minutes to one hour, depending on the traffic condition. From KL Sentral, you can take the RapidKL bus to Putrajaya, for RM5.00. 
• By Bus from Bandar Utama, Petaling Jaya - Take Bus U43 to Putrajaya Sentral.
• By Car: Self drive is the most common way for most locals. You would drive to the main Boulevard of Putrajaya in Precinct 2. This is near the Pink Mosque or the Prime Ministers Office. Once reaching there, look for the Ministry of Finance Building or the Millennium Tower (looks like a golden missile). Another landmark will be the Wawasan Bridge. Note: Putrajaya is about 30-45 minutes drive from PJ/KL. 

See some of last years flower picture on my MalaysiaAsia Facebook Page. For those who use Twitter, you can also follow me MalaysiaAsia on Twitter.

For those heading to this years festival, make sure you check the weather and also the timings. Weekends will see a very large crowd here so if you do not like crowds, go on the weekdays. You might even bump into me there as I will be going due to my love for orchids. There is nothing more beautiful than seeing the wonderful creations with flowers and plants here at the Floria Putrajaya Flower and Garden Exhibition 2011.

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Hot Air Balloon Putrajaya 'Night Glow' Event 2011

Hot Air Balloon Putrajaya 'Night Glow' Event 2011 is the much awaited night time show at the balloon event is held every Saturday night at the main event grounds. Here, most of the hot air balloons taking part will prepare by inflating up and standing by to start at about 8.30-8.45pm at night. Tens of thousands of spectators will be lining up the main area to catch this unique show which will last for about 15 to 20 minutes and is illuminated to the tune of music from the DJ spinning on that evening. For pictures I took during the day, take a look at my Hot Air Balloon Putrajaya 2011 Pictures article.

Doraemon and other Hot Air Balloons at Night Glow in Putrajaya 2011

For the third year running this event, the crowd simply loves the fact that apart from flying, these Hot Air Balloons are also used to entertain everyone by just being on the ground. Children of all ages, adults - young and old are seen enjoying the Night Glow event here in Putrajaya. Even the avid photographers are seen running around taking pictures of the lit up balloons. Trust me, it is not easy to take pictures of this unless you have a very steady hand or if you brought your tripod along. Flash photography does not work here so do not bother. 

Below are some videos and pictures I took during the 3rd Putrajaya Hot Air Balloon Fiesta on that Saturday night and no, I did not bring a tripod. I used a Panasonic HDC-HS700 Full HD Camcorder to capture the videos which are unedited. I generally moved around the main road to capture the many lit up hot air balloons and I have to say that the star of that night was the Doraemon Hot Air Balloon. Children were seen laughing and pointing at it while teenagers were seen posing in the front while all sorts of cameras were used to photograph the hot air balloon. From DSLR to compact cameras and video recorders to smartphones were being used here. I even saw someone with an iPad taking pictures here. 

Tree Trunk Nature Hot Air Balloon at Night Glow in Putrajaya 2011

Doraemon Hot Air Balloon at Putrajaya 2011 Fiesta in the night

Night Glow at Hot Air Balloon Fiesta in Putrajaya 2011 Video



Doraemon Hot Air Balloon at Putrajaya Hot Air Balloon Fiesta 2011 in HD Video



Putrajaya Hot Air Balloon 2011 Crowd at Night Video in HD

During the Night Glow at Putrajaya 2011, I took time to walk around and see some of the other balloons which were on display. The famous Darth Vader Hot Air Balloon was up and ready in the front just next to the Doraemon Hot Air Balloon. But just before the event started, the balloon had moved and was not seen. So the lighting event for the balloons were conducted with all the other balloons. Many were seen trying to photograph the Darth Vader Balloon but results proved frustrating as they could not get the desired picture they wanted. It was no easy task trying to photograph a black coloured hot air balloon in the night.

 Darth Vader at the Putrajaya Hot Air Balloon Night Glow Event 2011

Doraemon seems so happy all lit up at night

Even kids balloons were seen being sold at night

 The general crowd scene at the Nigh Glow in Putrajaya

With tens of thousands of people moving around the area, the atmosphere was a happy one indeed. Vendors selling toy helium balloons of popular cartoon characters were seen walking around while children were screaming to the parents to buy them. Adults were seen mingling around the main area taking pictures while couples were holding hands and admiring the beauty of the Night Glow Hot Air Balloon Event. Flashes from cameras were going off every other second as people tried to photograph this magical moment while the resident DJ was playing a variety of music which was coordinated to the balloon illuminations. 

How the balloons were lit up was pretty simple. Each of the balloons were prepared with enough gas and the balloon master would then pump the fire into the balloons with the tune of the music beat. Pumping the huge flames inside the balloons would light it up giving an overall bright glow to the balloon. A selection of Malay, Banghra, Techno and Fusion music was used in this show of lights at the event. At the end of the show, fireworks were set off at the back of the event grounds and people started to move to get a better view of the display. 'Ohhs' and 'Ahhs' were heard throughout the crowds while on a big display screen, it was broad casted live and those who could not see due to the high balloons turned their attention to the live screens here at Putrajaya. For further details about the event, see my Putrajaya International Hot Air Balloon Fiesta 2011 Article.

Tree Trunk Hot Air Balloon was very prominent in the front

Upside Down Hot Air Balloon at the event

For those who missed out on this spectacular show this year, make a note for the next Hot Air Balloon Fiesta Putrajaya 2012. The Night Glow Event is held on the second last day which is usually a Saturday so head there at about 3-4pm to find your parking space and you can catch the 6pm Hot Air Balloons lift off and after dinner at about 8pm, stand by at the main event area to catch the Hot Air Balloon Putrajaya Night Glow Event.

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Kenny G Live Concert in Kuala Lumpur 2011

Kenny G Live Concert in Kuala Lumpur 2011 is happening on the 24th May at the Planery Hall, Kuala Lumpur Convention Center. With a recording career that spans almost three decades and 23 albums, Grammy Award-winning saxophonist Kenny G has grafted elements of R&B, pop and Latin to a jazz foundation solidifying his reputation as the premiere artist in contemporary jazz which is well accepted the world over. From spas to hotel lobbies, homes to karaokes, Kenny G's music has been there, done that. 

Updates on the Kenny G Show in KL (21st May 2011):

• You get a Free Kenny G 'Heart and Soul' CD with every purchase of platinum tickets.
• Malaysian Diana Danielle will be the opening act for the concert.
• There is a chance to meet Kenny G and his band in person with every purchase of merchandise. You will also be in the running to win an exclusive autographed saxophone via lucky draw on show day.
• Enjoy 30% savings by using your American Express Card to make purchases via the hotline or walk in at the TicketPro outlet in Kelana Jaya, Petaling Jaya.
• Complimentary pre-show cocktail for platinum ticket holders from 7.30-8.30pm.

Ever since a teenager, I have heard and followed some of Kenny G's early works namely his super famous song 'Song Bird' which has been a household name here in Malaysia. His full name is actually Kenneth Bruce Gorelick and is 56 years old this year. Born in Seattle, Washington and started playing the saxophone at 10 years old, Kenny G earned a place in the Guinness Book of World Records for playing the longest note ever recorded on a saxophone in 1997. Kenny G also plays the Selmer Mark VI Soprano, Alto and Tenor Saxophones. He has created his own line of saxophones called "Kenny G Saxophones". He is also married to Lyndie Benson, with whom he has two sons, Max (age 16) and Noah (age 11).

Kenny G performing live

Tickets for Kenny G Live in Kuala Lumpur 2011 

• AirAsia Red Tix Website
• TicketPro Website
• Victoria Music Center
• Rock Music Stores 

Kenny G Concert Ticket Information:

• Ticket Prices: RM198 (Sold Out), RM298, RM498, RM888
• Date: 24th May 2011
• Time: 8.30 PM (Doors open at 7.00pm)
• Venue: Plenary Hall, Kuala Lumpur Convention Hall
• Landmark: Next to the Petronas Twin Towers in KL
• Opening Act: Diana Danielle
• Brought to you by: JS Productions and Midas Promotions

Kenny G ticket prices and information

Concerts in Malaysia for 2011
Justin Bieber Concert Live in Kuala Lumpur 2011
Bruno Mars Live in Kuala Lumpur 2011
Maroon 5 Live in Kuala Lumpur 2011

For jazz fans or those who grew up with this outstanding musician, this is one of the many times that the artist has performed here in Malaysia. Launching his new album, you will be able to hear some of the songs plus his greatest hits being performed here so make that date for the Kenny G Live Concert in Kuala Lumpur 2011.

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Louis Vuitton Bag in Shanghai Picture of the Week

Louis Vuitton Bag in Shanghai is my Picture of the Week. Looking at the picture, I still cannot come to terms on how certain things are in life. I mean, was this bag machine washed or hand washed? Was it spun dry or left to drip dry? Only you and I can imagine how it was done. This picture was taken in the Taikang Lu district of Shanghai when I was wandering around the interesting back lanes here. Notice the undergarments hanging in the back? Such an interesting combination that this was one of my most memorable images of Shanghai, China. 

I guess it is true that every other girl or woman in China owns a LV Handbag, just that is it the real one or are people so well off that they can simply hang their bags to dry. I also visited Paris in June 2011 and took another beautiful picture of Louis Vuitton Handbag Wheel Picture. Here is another article about the new Louis Vuitton Island Maison Store in Singapore which opened on 18th September 2011. I am pretty sure that those hard core bag addicts would be able to tell the difference if this is a real Louis Vuitton Bag in Shanghai.

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Cha Ca La Vong Restaurant in Hanoi

Cha Ca La Vong Restaurant in Hanoi is one of the must visit places if you are the foodie type of traveler. Located along the famed Cha Ca Road in Hanoi's Old Quarter, you will find this 104 year old business along one of the shabby shoplots on this busy street. Just so you know, there are two Cha Ca La Vong Restaurants in Hanoi. One of is rip off of the original while the other is the real deal. To tell the difference, the real one has 'Charcoal Stoves' and dining is only on the first floor of the restaurant while the fake one uses an electrical stove and you can dine on both floors. Visiting the original restaurant was an adventure by itself as once there, you needed to climb a 45 degree wooden staircase to get to the first floor. The restaurant up top was no larger that a deluxe hotel room with about 8 dining tables. It looked more like an antique store with heavy wooden floorboards and a huge prayer alter mounted on one wall.The green colour on the walls make the place look like some sort of bar from twenty years ago.

So, what is Cha Ca La Vong? It is actually a fish and vegetable dish that was handed down from generation to generation. The art of preparation is done by the chefs and a waiter or waitress brings the raw dish to your table and cooks it on the spot showing you how its done before attempting to do-it-yourself. Mind you that there is only one dish and this is it. People come here for the experience so do not expect much. As a travel foodie, I personally tried the fake restaurant and the original one just to satisfy my curiosity of  this so called traditional dish.

Grilled Fish with herbs and vegetables dish at the restaurant

Waitress prepares the dish for you to see 

Cha Ca La Vong Restaurant interior

The unique dish is prepared with a hot coal stove brought to your table while bowls of raw food and condiments are accompanied. Whitefish pieces, local vegetables, turmeric, herbs, Pho (Vietnamese Noodles), Onions and Peanuts with a local sauce and oil is placed on your table. As the person cooks it in front of you, the strong aroma of the fish and vegetables fill the entire room while the condiments are slowly placed in. Finally after about 3-5 minutes, the dish is ready and served to you in a little bowl with the Pho noodles. You then attempt to do the next round yourself which can be an exciting adventure all together. 

While doing a search on the internet, you will find a lot of reviews and comments about Cha Ca La Vong and about 80% of them claim that this place is a rip off, cheat or nothing great. Well, to be very honest, I doubt these people have really traveled much to be able to pass such opinions. So what if the experience was expensive, that's what you pay for when you want to try something authentic in another country. The funny thing is travelers nowadays are very opinionated and sometimes for all the wrong reasons. Anyway, such is life and everyone has their own personal opinion. I like fish, you like chicken.

Cha Ca La Vong Restaurant - Preparing the meal video

Video of Cha Ca La Vong Restaurant in Hanoi

From my personal experience here in Hanoi, I found the restaurant one of a kind and pretty interesting despite the low key atmosphere here. If you love fish and veg, this is your stop but be prepared to pay VND120,000 per person for the experience here. Overall, I would eat this again due to the uniqueness of the dish. A little on the oily side but you can tell them to cut down on the oils.

Fake Cha Ca La Vong Restaurant Hanoi Video

The video above is taken at the Fake Cha Ca La Vong Restaurant in Hanoi. They use an electric stove to do the cooking so you should know which is the real and fake one. Anyway, the food here was not as tasty as the real one though it is similar. Overall ambiance at the fake place was terrible. Remember, the original restaurant is along Cha Ca Road in Hanoi's Old Quarter of town. You can tell by the wooden statue and plants in the front. The dining area is upstairs and you need to use a old wooden staircase to get up there.

Cha Ca La Vong Restaurant, main entrance with statue

45 degree wooden staircase leading to dining hall

Cha Ca La Vong Restaurant Address
14 Chả Cá, Hoan Kiem
Hanoi, Vietnam
Telephone Number: 84-4/825-3929 
Price: VND120,000 per person 


Hanoi and Vietnam related articles;
Halong Bay Cruise Boat Picture
Ipa Nima Bag Store in Hanoi
Crumpler Bags in Hanoi
Weasel Coffee in Hanoi
Hanoi Old Quarter at Night
Thien Cung Cave at Halong Bay
Impressive Hotel at Old Quarter in Hanoi

Holiday Villa Halong Bay Tuan Chau Island

Here is my personal tip to enjoying this restaurant - If you are traveling as a couple, I would recommend you order a meal just for one person. Tell them you have already eaten and would just like to just try this famous Vietnamese fish dish. So, same goes if you are in a group of 4, just order for 2 to try Cha Ca La Vong Restaurant in Hanoi, Vietnam.  

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Hot Air Balloon Putrajaya 2011 Pictures

Hot Air Balloon Putrajaya 2011 in Pictures taken on Saturday evening 19th March. I took some time off my schedule to drive down to Putrajaya and catch the Hot Air Balloon Fiesta 2011 as today is the second last day. Reaching there at about 5pm, the weather was not too promising as it was raining. But the crowd there was incredible! Every where I turned, there were hundreds of not thousands of people with umbrellas walking around the area. It was pretty much packed despite the weather. Anyway, walking around and snapping away, I finally found a stall that sold a poncho as the rain did not seem to be stopping. 

Crowd braving the rain

Before I knew it, it did stop and smiles were beginning to form from the crowd. Every other person was seen holding a camera of some kind - DSLR, compact and smartphones, they were everywhere. The MC announced that due to the great weather now, they were awaiting the airspace marshals to give the go ahead for the hot air balloons to start lifting off. Looking around, I should say there were at least ten thousand people around. Many of them crowding the balloon set up barricade snapping away. 

Finally, the first hot air balloon is up, it is the Vietnamese Cat Hot Air Balloon which brings cheer to the waiting crowd. Children pointing just like the adults while cameras clicking away in a frenzy. The bright orange hot air balloon lifts off the ground to the cheer of the crowd. Slowly, one by one the balloons start taking form  and eventually lift off. There were at least seven balloons that took off this evening.  Two Blimps were seen flying around the event area so that was something new here. Below are a series of pictures taken this evening with my trusty Nikon D60 camera. If you are planning to visit the Putrajaya International Hot Air Balloon Fiesta 2011 tomorrow, go early - 7am! Enjoy and if you have any comments, please feel free to mention.

Hot Air Balloon Putrajaya 2011 Video

Video of the crowd at Putrajaya Hot Air Balloon Fiesta 2011 on Saturday evening

Two Hot Air Balloons lift off at Putrajaya 2011

My Balloon Fiesta Blimp and a Hot Air Balloon

A poor Doraemon Balloon

Kids were seen with happy faces despite the rain at Putrajaya

A balloon firing up to get higher

KFC had their own little hot air balloon

Colourful Balloons for the kids

Video of the Hot Air Balloons taking off

 Happy Hot Air Balloon lifting off at Putrajaya

A Spiderman Motorbike Balloon

Star Wars Stormtroopers seen among the crowd at Putrajaya

Dora the Explorer balloon against a sunset

Jet of fire being let go into the hot air balloon

Tomorrow is the last day (20th March 2011) so for those of you planning to visit this festival, make sure you head there very early at about 7am. There is ample parking around the area and lots of food and drinks. Make sure you bring your umbrella just in case it rains. For more information about the Putrajaya International Hot Air Balloon Fiesta 2011.

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