Nov

Recent trip to London, UK

9.5 hours flight from Vancouver to London Heathrow Airport. Is it just me or the in-flight meals getting more and more minuscule? But all in all Im excited for my first business trip to London.

We took the Heathrow connect and a 5 minute taxi ride from the Liverpool station took us to the hotel where we will be spending our first two nights in London.

The Crowne Plaza London Shoreditch became a mini oasis for my trip (attending the WTM 2012). From the friendly front desk staff to the hot breakfast buffet each morning and the 7 jet shower head massager. I felt at home right away. And the location, the #26 bus stop is literally right in front of the hotel entrance and will take you to the Liverpool station. Where you can catch the tube,taxi and or train.

For easy transportation, I brought a 7 day octopus pass and used the underground extensively. Being in London gave me a wonderful feeling because it actually reminded me of Hong Kong minus the neon lights. As you may know, Hong Kong was once under British rule for 156 years. And coincidentally, I will be in Hong Kong in 3 weeks time.

On the last 3 nights, we checked in The Re London Shoreditch Hotel, about a 15 minute bus ride from our original hotel. And how I wish we had remained at the Crowne Plaza. I’m not a big complainer but cleanliness is my minimal requirement. The Re had been open for 4 years and recently renovated. I can’t imagine how the property was like before the reno. I try to cease that thought.

So the two pet peeves…the carpet was filthy..like dirt dirty. And the shower curtain and pillow cases had stains from I don’t want to know where. *sigh* At this point I already know I wont be back. And the location was in between 2 underground stations so it was in the middle..not good not bad. And lastly, the wifi was sadly slow and did not connect. To be fair I will not compare this hotel to the Crowne Plaza. But cleanliness is really an issue here. I would suggest not to categorize this hotel as a 4 star rather a 3.5 star would be most fitting.

The highlight of my trip besides WTM, was visiting Harrods and Fortum & Mason. It’s one of those places you must see in real life, much better than the photos. And the atmosphere in the already Christmas carol ready decor was worth the whole visit. And to end my last night in London, I brought tickets for the Emirates air line cable car ride across the Thames river. And to my surprise, fireworks were on display in full view!

189 days ago Short URL Comments

Asia/Business/China/Crowne Plaza/Hong Kong/Hotel/London UK/Shoreditch/Technology/Tradeshow/Travel/World travel market/WTM 2012

Nov

Confessions of a World Travel Market First Time Visitor

Just came back from a 6 days 5 nights business trip to the UK. My boss so graciously sponsored my entire trip (hotel + air). Couldn’t be luckier! Our main purpose of the trip was to gather information on the latest tech trends and establish new contacts within the travel field. And boy! I was thrilled once I stepped into the main hall of the Excel centre. This was the biggie, I told myself. The slogan “WTM means business”..no kidding! Basically you are stuck here for 4 full days of one on one meetings and it’s pure networking at it’s best. Everyone here is keen to learn,to see,to buy & sell.

The opening day was reserved for the travel trade and invitation only. We were well connected and got our trade invitee badges with no problems. One small hiccup when we arrived, there were not enough lanyards available. And we were told to bear with it until the next morning. No worries, we got plenty of lanyards after our first meeting with one of our hotel suppliers.

The cloakrooms were a nice touch although you were charged 1 pound for each item. It was convenient because of the cooler weather, everyone was wrapped in a long thick jacket plus hat and scarf.

The first two days we spent adhering to our appointments. And the 3rd day we toured the technology,Asia and Europe sector. And my favorite part was listening in the tech trends session by Paul Richer( An expert in website auditing). He presented some great detailed highlights on how to improve your website to convert to sales. Exactly what I was looking for on this trip.

In the technology sector, the one big thing was XML connection and advanced booking engines. From all over the world,Canada,Turkey,India..we saw booking engine booth after booth.

How can we determine which system has the best quality or best fits our company? From price wise, a system ranged from $4000 to $28000. From year of experience, companies range from 4.5 years to 11 years in the industry. From customer service wise, can’t really tell at this point. But coming from Canada..the time zone difference would somewhat affect our final decision.

My visit to WTM 2012 really opened my eyes to the world of travel. We’ve made a lot of contacts and now I’m happily sending out and replying to the many email follow ups.

There are so many things for me to reflect upon from this trip. Firstly, I need to re-organize my products and strengthen my marketing skills. Aiming to exhibit at WTM in the near future!

P.s: I’ve found a really good company specializing in Hong Kong airport transfer service If you ever need door to door hassle free service..give them a shout.

191 days ago Short URL Comments

Business/London UK/Technology/Tradeshow/Travel/World travel market/WTM 2012

Jul

Just Sleep Hotel (Xi Men Ding) Review

Just Sleep Ximending by The Regent Hotel Group is in a great location, right outside the XiMen MTR Station (although you need to walk through a long underground corridor to reach the train). The hotel is located inside a commercial building, so you will be seeing many white-collars going to work and sharing the elevator with you. Right behind the reception desk, there is a 7-11..you can get all the basics there. We brought a cheap umbrella from there as it was raining 4 days straight during our stay in Taipei.

We arrived really early at 8am, the front desk staff were young and friendly, they helped us store our luggage while we went out to explore and came back at 3pm to check in. They also gave us a map of the city and directed us to the famous soya milk shop “Yonghe” just 10 minutes away. It was delicious by the way!

The room we had for 2 nights was small but a good size for a couple. I really liked the shower, the

water pressure was good. And the separate toilet area was convenient for us. The bed was comfy and the bed sheets were clean. But I was a little surprised when my partner opened the blinds, it was a view of a blacked out storage space. We closed the blinds immediately and never opened them again. But it didn’t bother us, as we were outside most of the time having fun shopping at Ximending or stuffing ourselves with yummy snacks at the night market.

On the 3rd day we went to Yangmingshan for hot springs trip and returned to Just Sleep checking in late around 9pm. All standard rooms were full so we were upgraded to the next category. This room was really spacious with two double beds and a dining table.

The room also had really cool symbols and unique designs. I loved the clothes hanger! And especially the funny picture of a stick person trying to go to the bathroom.

The TV was very small, but provided good entertainment and lots of Taiwanese variety shows and dramas.

During our stay we saw guests from Japan and Singapore. But mostly there were guests from Hong Kong. Just Sleep Ximending seems to be a popular choice for Hong Kong Travellers. Before my trip to Taipei, I purchased a Taipei Guide published by a major Hong Kong Travel guide company. And Just Sleep Ximending was featured on the first page in hotel recommendations.

I think Just Sleep will also be a good choice for families because they have a Triple room with 3 beds inside.

The breakfast was good, it was a buffet style..not a lot of variety but it was good enough. Fresh bread,dragon fruit,congee,ham,salad,cereal,juice,milk,corn,scramble eggs and sausage.

In two occasions, the taxi driver didn’t know the location of Just Sleep Ximending but luckily I printed out a map in Chinese and we found the hotel eventually. By the way, one of the taxi drivers we met was really friendly and resourceful. He even offered to take us to the airport the next morning and he gave us a discount.

To be honest, there is some minor wear and tear in the rooms. But overall it was a great experience and I would love to come back!

P.s: There is free wifi in the rooms and 2 desktop computers for guest use in the breakfast room.

316 days ago Short URL Comments

Asia/Travel

May

Hong Kong Things to Do and See

Hong Kong is my favourite travel destination.

There are endless activities,gastronomic adventures and artistic/historical spots waiting for you to discover. Its easy when planning a holiday in Hong Kong, there are fun things to do for everyone, no matter you are a single traveler,couple, big family,on a business trip or visiting friends and family.

Families & Couples

I would recommended visiting Ocean Park. They have recently undergone a multi-million dollar renovation, a completely new area named “Aqua City” has been built together featuring a three-story Grand Aquarium.

Transportation

It is super super super easy to get around Hong Kong. You can travel by the extensive MTR (underground subway) and not take the bus or taxi during your entire trip! Its affordable and easy to use! All you have to do is load cash onto the rechargeable “Octopus Card” and you are ready to go! There are self-serve machines and customer service counters at every station.

Night Life

Lan Kwai Fong and Knutsford Terrace are the most famous bar streets in Hong Kong.

Lan Kwai Fong would be perfect for night club hoppers.You will find the coolest bars here.
Knutsford Terrace offers a lot of outdoor siting and is more suitable for drinks,snacks and dinner.

Romantic Spots

As part of the Hong Kong Tourism Board campaign, they have set up a permanent laser show “A Symphony of Lights” which shows nightly on both sides of the renowned Victoria Harbour.

The show starts at 8pm, so its perfect to settle down in a restaurant overlooking the Victoria harbour around 7:30pm. You can enjoy your meal and the show with your significant other.

Dim sum

Dim sum is the creme of the creme in Hong Kong. A staple activity that Hong Kong natives flock to every weekend or even every day!

The best dim sum in Hong Kong, Lung King Heen is a high-end choice. Located in the beautiful Four Seasons Hotel. You will not be disappointed.

For a more local experience:

Try Tim Ho Wan (small hole in the wall opened by Lung King Heen)
Lin Heung Teahouse (Classic style,crowded and noisy)
Luk Yu Teahouse (Colonial Style and notorious bad service).

For a fun experience:

Have dim sum at the Hong Kong Disneyland Hotel! Your dim sum will come in cute Disney character shapes! Too cute to eat!

Hong Kong Style cafes

Everywhere! Hong Kong Cafes are at every corner! Famous drinks like the cold lemon ice-tea and smooth milk tea are a must try! Prices are dirt cheap too! Try a morning set breakfast and you’ll know what I mean by value!

Fine Dining:

I cannot list all the mouth-watering culinary treats in Hong Kong. But I am happy to recommend the top restaurant review site: www.openrice.com.

With real reviews, photos and restaurant details, this is the go-to site for food in Hong Kong.

Sunday Brunch

For a truly relaxing Sunday brunch, come to The Verandah at Repulse bay. You will enjoy your meal while a soothing breeze touches your skin. This is the best seaside pick
For a modern Japanese experience, try Zuma. Located in Central, the prestigious area in Hong Kong. You will find yourself in a city oasis with modern design and a spacious patio.

Desserts

There are tons of choices for sweets in Hong Kong, but I would recommend Honeymoon Dessert as a perfect choice for the entry level introduction to Cantonese style of desserts.

Honeymoon desserts menu offers all the basic and popular items, so I’m sure you will find something that you like. Once you’re ready for something more exotic, you can explore some local boutique dessert shops.

Nature

Yes! There is fresh air in Hong Kong! You can enjoy nature/sport activities such as hiking, kayaking,jet-skiing,chartering a yacht or strolling in wetland parks!

Surprisingly,you can still be active outside the gym. I say this because there is limited space for development in Hong Kong. And Hong Kong is constantly rated one of the world’s most expensive real estate markets.

The Hong Kong Movie/ Drama scene

If you have heard of Jackie Chan or Bruce lee, then you should know that Hong Kong is famous for action movies.

And the dominant TV station TVB has been producing TV dramas since 1967. A lot of movie mega stars today started as newbies in the TVB actor training program.

Take a stroll at the Avenue of the Stars along the stunning Victoria harbour. Here you will find hand prints and autographs of Hong Kong Movie stars. Try to find your favourite Hong Kong star!

Language

Cantonese (local dialect)
Mandarin (transfer of sovereignty to China in 1997)
English (previous British colony)

Since English is taught in schools at an early age, most young people you encounter should be able to make basic conversation.

Hong Kong is truly a world class city, the best place to enjoy a well-rounded holiday. I look forward to my next opportunity to explore and mingle with Hong Kong natives.

Have you traveled to Hong Kong? Tell me about your travels in the comments below!

369 days ago Short URL 2 Comments

Asia/China/Dim Sum/Fine Dining/Japanese/Shopping/Travel

cantonese/dessert/disneyland/hong kong/nightlife/things to do/Travel

May

Do One Thing Every Day That Scares You

Back in 2008, I was a fresh grad. I took the opportunity to visit China. I went to Shanghai to see the Shanghai World Expo and the beauty of The Bund. Then, I travelled to Beijing for the annual BITE (Beijing International Travel Expo).

I took a 11 hour direct flight from Vancouver,Canada to Shanghai,China aboard China Eastern Airlines. The food was disappointing and the cleanliness of the plane was nothing to brag about. But I was on holiday! To be exact, this was my post-grad trip! I was beaming and didn’t rest my eyes for more than 5 minutes during the flight.

The seat next to me was empty and a friendly stranger politely asked if they could take the seat. I shrugged and said Sure!” The next 2 hours, I found myself exchanging an awesome conversation with this passenger. And later on we shared a game of angry birds on the iPhone.

I’m no social butterfly…far from it. But I guess the most basic tip is to be polite and unobtrusive. I know an international plane ride can get really boring and it could be nice to make a friend.

But in today’s age, many of us would rather follow each other on Twitter,Facebook,Linkedin or Pinterest than start a live conversation. To be honest, I have been leaning towards this conveinent way to socialize online ever since I opened my accounts on these “social networking” websites.

But now I want to come back. It’s been forever since I have been engaged in great conversation. There are 5 more months before my next birthday, I want to make initiating conversation and making new friends my main goal.

Just like this quote. “Do one thing every day that scares you,” by Eleanor Roosevelt.

Wish me luck!

P.S: I started eating onions! This sounds silly and meaningless. But I realized being a picky eater actually limits my choices. Applying it to life, if I do not take an opportunity because I’m scared or don’t like it… I’m actually giving up before even trying!

Now I understand, no wonder sometimes I feel my daily life is so boring. It’s because I’ve never taken the step to come out of my comfort zone and challenge myself.

This is my self reflection and a reminder to “come back” to the “real” social world.

May

The Disastrous Pre-Holiday Salon Blow-Dry

I always book last minute Pre-holiday pampering sessions. I get a mani,pedi,full leg wax and a hair cut or hair treatment. I want to look my best on holiday and it’s usually cheaper for me to get all the things done at my usual salon (but they were full!). So, I made a big mistake and booked an appointment with the new salon that just opened for a few months.

Right before my trip to Maui, I booked a shampoo,blow-dry and treatment at Aveda Eco Chic Spa and Salon at the Oakridge Centre. A big No-No!

The welcome

I walked in the small busy salon and was greeted nicely by the receptionist. She led me inside to sit down and offered me a cup of hot tea. This was nice I thought! But the nice things basically stopped there.

The Shampooing

So, the receptionist turned out to be my hairdresser. Interesting. This was the most painful experience I’ve ever had in a salon. My hair was poorly washed, tossed around like salad and was not thoroughly rinsed. I was seriously doubting myself at this point. Why am I paying to get my hair shampooed if my hair can’t even pass to be clean.

The Treatment

I thought I was already brutally treated during the shampooing but I was proven wrong. A decent hair treatment would at least take 10 minutes to set in. But as soon as the receptionist/hairdresser told me “I’ll check back on you in 5 minutes!” I knew this was the absolutely the first time and last time I would ever come into this salon. And to make things worse, she came back in 2 minutes! Tossed my hair like salad again and poorly rinsed out the treatment.

The Blow-dry

I was totally ready to leave as soon as my hair stopped dripping. She held the blow-dryer and ran her fingers through my hair for 3 minutes and commented: “Wow! Your hair really retains water!” I’m usually a calm and peaceful person but I was really boiling at this point. All I wanted was the exit and never turn back.

The conclusion

Please do not go to this salon if you need a shampoo,treatment or blow-dry. For other services I cannot comment but it might be better if someone else helped you. If it’s the receptionist, just run for your life and no one will blame you.

Lesson learned. I will stick to my usual salon for eternity.

Thank You.

May

Reaching For Future Happiness

I get really excited when I plan my annual December holiday because it’s the one BIG holiday where I can relax and see and do things that I adore without a schedule. The past two Decembers I spent in Hong Kong,Taipei and Zhongshan and I loved every moment of it.

I can’t wait to go back to Asia and explore more of the different cultures. I’ve visited the city of Bangkok back when I was a teen on a family vacation and it wasn’t too memorable or fun. But after watching the outrageous “Hangover 2” movie, I bet I’m not the only one who wants to see the lively side of Bangkok. But I know some people who would turn away from Thailand at all costs as well.

If i could visit any place in Asia and not need to worry about a travel budget, I would choose Bali,New Delhi,Singapore,Kuala Lumpur and Nanjing. I haven’t travelled to these places and I am eager to find out what amazing experiences I will encounter.

This year however I will not be traveling to Asia. I am committing one full year to work hard and fulfill my lifestyle goals. But I am happy because I know clearly that all the time and effort that I am putting in now will be worthwhile. I can see my end goal. I can free myself and travel with more flexibility TWICE not Once a year!

I will be doubling my holidays and relaxation time. I will be doubling my happiness. I can choose to sip fresh young coconut milk on the beach,shop in a mega mall complex or snorkel with the sea turtles. And still stay connected and blog on my iPad! This is the start of my one year journey to cease traveling but for the better.

Wish me luck as I dive into the ocean of “investing in the future.”

Apr

Having fun at the Hong Kong International Airport

Are you stuck at the airport for a few hours but not enough to go out and explore Hong Kong? Do you want to grab a quick bite before your flight home? Here are some fun facts about the Hong Kong International Airport.

AKA Chek Lap Kok International Airport
Opened in 1998 on Lantau Island
Replaced the original Kai Tak Airport
Check out the Extreme Engineering Series by Discovery Channel - Part 1 here: http://youtu.be/ZwtOV-8RpqU

1. Lose those Bags (Baggage Storage Service)

Before we let go and let loose, first set aside our belongings at the Baggage Storage counter located on Level 3 of terminal 2. Hours of operation are from 05:30 am in the morning to 01:30 at night Monday to Sunday. You may choose from a hourly or daily rate. See full details here: http://www.hongkongairport.com/eng/passenger/arrival/t1/baggage/left-baggage.html

2. Let’s go Shopping

Terminal 1 is the brand name shopping section carrying international retailers such as Jimmy Choo, Marc by Marc Jacobs,Tiffany & Co,Valentino & Versace.

You can shop til your heart’s content! But for a true luxury shopping experience, I would suggest you go to Canton Road in Tsim Sha Tsui where you will witness the LONG lineups and interesting people watching.

An honourable mention is Mannings, one of the top health and beauty chains in Hong Kong. Any last minute toiletries and snacks can be found here.

3. Gather some Hot Magazines (can be found in Terminal 1 & 2)

Relay: All the latest magazines from Taiwan, Japan, overseas and don’t forget the local infamous celebrity gossip magazines.

PageOne: For the creative and crafty peeps, at PageOne you can find design titles and designer gifts.

4. Fill that tummy

Situated in Terminal 1 on Level 7, there is the Fairwood one of the largest fast food chains in Hong Kong. Its an easy and cheap way to feed the whole family and enjoy it too! (Quick Service, Good Food and Value for money) Popular dishes include baked pork chop on rice and a series of curry dishes. (Personal tip: I enjoy the competitor Cafe de Coral much more. Try it and tell me what you think!)

Coffee bean lovers: There’s always a Starbucks somewhere in a big city! But for an alternative, try the Agnes b. Cafe and while you’re at it indulge in some artisan chocolates too!

5. Satisfy the Sweet Tooth

There is Ben & Jerry’s the delicious ice cream chain from the USA. And there is Hui Lau Shan serving a variety of Chinese desserts from Hong Kong. (If you can wait, I would suggest you try “Honeymoon Dessert,” a very delicious dessert chain around Hong Kong. See website here: http://www.honeymoon-dessert.com/en_us/

6. Golf Lovers

You’re in luck! Enjoy a session of your favourite sport at the Sky City Nine Eagles Golf Course. Finish off with some authentic Thai food at the on-site Erawan Restaurant. See some awesome photos here: http://www.nine-eagles.com/eng/erawan/index.html

7. Children / Young at Heart Friendly

Fight the fatigue at i-Sports located at Terminal 2 on Level 6. An interesting place filled with simulators, try some boxing,car racing,soccer and basketball.

8. Easy Souvenirs

Muji To Go – The mini version of the famous No-Name brand from Japan. Great choice for souvenirs!http://www.muji.com.hk/

Aji Ichiban – delicious dried snacks, from dried plums,squid,mangoes to cashews.

How about you?

What are your favourite things to do at the Hong Kong International Airport? Let’s talk about it in the comments.

Apr

Hot Springs Bathing in Taiwan. First time Visitor.

In Taiwan, you get an option to enjoy the hot springs naked or with a bathing suit. Sometimes, it is also required to wear a swimming cap for cleanliness.

First time Visitor Etiquette

Please shower before entering the hot springs
Please be quiet or talk quietly (indoor hot springs)
No drinking or eating while bathing in the hot springs (most resorts have a cafe/restaurant beside the outdoor hot springs for you to sit down and enjoy a refreshing drink or snack)
Please respect women’s only and men’s only naked hot springs.

What to expect

Outdoor hot springs will be HOT. Don’t rush in. Slowly test the water with your foot and proceed to sit down when you are more comfortable. . often, you will see a temperature display which may shock you at first of how HOT it is. But once you’ve immersed yourself and drop down your tense shoulders and closed your eyes…Ahhh you know that you’ve come to the right place.

Be open and explore the different hot spring pools. Each pool has a different healing element. Such as, smoother skin! Help to soothe pain related with rheumatism and nerves. Improve blood circulation.

Take a break. Don’t over do it, it is unlimited but usually 2 times a day is good enough. Grab a drink. Take a walk around the garden. Come back again after dinner.

It might be smelly. Not smelly from other guest’s feet or armpits (never experienced that!) I’m talking about the origin of the hot spring water, in this instance the resort I chose uses a filtration system therefore the smell (natural sulfur) is minimal and you still get the benefits.

You may feel fatigue after bathing in the hot springs. But in a good way, our muscles are relaxed and ready for a good sleep.

Calla Young Garden Yangmingshan Resort :

How to get there:

A beautiful secluded area…to be exact it is in the middle of nowhere! And when I mean “nowhere”..there is no WIFI! So beware if you need to be connected back home or would like to check some emails. Nope. Not Here. However, if you are seeking some quiet time, you will be surrounded by luscious green mountains and crisp mountain air. I would recommend this journey for a weekend getaway.

After researching online and reading Taiwan travel guides, I choose the Calla Young Garden Resort. But FIY, the best and most popular hot springs spots are located in Wulai and Beitou. But I still went for Yangminghsan, because the less favourable location also meant it will be less crowded.

Considering Calla Young Garden Resort in Yangmingshan? http://www.calla.com.tw/

First of all, the mountains are famous for the scenery, fresh air and calla lily gardens. Second of all, the resort offers a full package that includes a delicious breakfast and dinner set.Third of all, at around CAD 130 per room per night you don’t need to break the bank.

Front entrance. Set against beautiful mountain scenery.

Deluxe Mountain View Hot Springs Room.

Sit back and unwind in your private hot springs deep soaking tub.

Tired feet relaxing.

Spacious shower area.

Breakfast set! Delicious!

View from hotel restaurant

Just one fine day in Yangminghsan, but completely satisfied!

Apr

Day Trip in Maui – I survived the Road to Hana!

Maui. Truly a magical island. Clear blue skies. Long stretches of beautiful beaches. Snorkel and surfing heaven.

Day 1: The Hana Highway

The total time for the trip was 6 hours. We stopped in between at the “Half Way to Hana” food stand. They are currently celebrating their 25th anniversary of making delicious banana bread. We tried the banana bread which was freshly baked and soft to the tongue. My brother tried the syrup flavored shaved ice and really enjoyed it.

The scenery along the highway is absolutely beautiful and naturally preserved.

The good:

Amazing scenery
Ocean views
Pineapple and banana trees
Once in a life time experience
See Hawaii exactly how it was 30 years ago
Shop at the the Hasegawa General Store , a fourth generational family owned shop selling uniquely Hana items.
Pick up a copy of the famous song entitled “Hasegawa General Store.”
Famous Twin Falls

The Bad: