The Amazing Bean

If you have never seen Cloud Gate before, which has been nicknamed “The Bean” because of its bean-like structure, it may look like a big drop of water right in the middle of the square, which is exactly what I thought it was! But unfortunately, it wasn’t. Ever since I’ve watched the movie “Transformers: Age of Extinction” that was released on June 26 2014, I’m been tempted to visit “The Bean” and hope that I am able to in the near future.

Cloud Gate is built and designed by British artist Anish Kapoor’s and it was his first public outdoor work in the United States, which is made up of a seamless series of highly polished stainless steel plates inspired by liquid mercury. The name “Cloud Gate” came about because its surface reflects the sky and city skyline. Cloud Gate sits upon the AT&T Plaza, which is located in Millennium Park, Chicago, Illinois, United States, measuring 66-feet long by 33-feet high.

It is definitely a tourist trap as it provides an eye-catching view of the entire city located in the area. You get to see a reflection of the whole city from a variety of perspectives which enthralls you to have different points of views of the skyline and clouds, providing an endless reflection from where you stand.

I am constantly amazed by the countless selfie opportunities it allows one to have because it enables you to look thin or plump due to the angles where the reflections are stretched, expanded and displayed on the bean. There is even a concave area where visitors can stand underneath the bean!

(The concave area that captures your attention)

 

Who would have thought that an enormous gorgeous metallic bean-shaped sculpture could become one of Chicago’s top tourists attractions? It is simply fascinating and is one of those landmarks that makes it worth your time and journey.

There is almost always a crowd so it’s best to come early to avoid them. No trip is complete without a trip to The Bean. Kids, children and even adults are drawn to it. The best part is that it’s always 100% free! This is the perfect place to visit for a family vacation, and the view especially at night is simply fascinating 😉 Definitely a place you should not miss out!

– Kerri

 

 

References:

http://sensefunction.blogspot.sg/2012/04/why-cloud-gate-chicago.html

http://www.travelchannel.com/daily-escape/millennium-park

 

 

Fun In Seoul

When I asked my parents for their permission to go overseas to Seoul, South Korea, with my friends, they agreed without asking more questions. At that moment, all I could think of was what I should do, where I should go and what I should buy in Seoul.

Remembering how much fun we had while in Seoul years ago, this place definitely defines a whole new level of fun! Imagine an outdoor and indoor theme park that held the guinness world record for being the largest indoor theme park. Incredible, right? This is Lotte World (롯데월드) located in 40-1 Jamsil-dong, Songpa Gu, Seoul, South Korea, a South Korean version of Disneyland

It is a theme park filled with thrilling rides, different types of parades and much more.

 

One of the many reasons why visitors are attracted to Lotte World is because of its amusements rides, especially the Gyro Drop! Even though I have never sat on it, it not only looks thrilling but scary as well because of its steep drop of about 70 metres. Lotte World is in fact one of the greatest theme park In Asia. It was opened in 12 July 1989 with over 8 million visitors every year.

(The Gyro Drop! Yeap those are people up there. Scary but tempting at the same time.)
There are uncountable rides in Lotte World, many of which I have never rode on or even seen it before. However, despite the many other rides that I enjoyed, there are 2 rides which were definitely unforgettable.

 

1. The Aeronaut Balloon

The ride goes at a slow speed because it is more focused towards kids who are 6 years old and below. However, there is no age limit and even couples are allowed to take the ride. This ride takes you around the circumference of the indoor section of the park. Due to its slow speed, visitors are able to enjoy a bird’s-eye view of the entire indoor theme park and have an overview of the rides that was shown on the theme park map.

 

2. The Giant Loop

This ride surely makes you go woahhhhhh~! The Roller Coaster goes through a 360 degrees loop and stops at the peak of the loop hanging everyone upside down. The experience was simply awesome because the thrill it gives is too extreme and nothing like what a normal roller coaster ride offers. Imagine doing a handstand for 30 seconds, but at a higher height and being unable to touch the ground for a long period of time.

It may look small from here, but it is no doubt a huge loop!

– Keith

 

 

References:

http://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Lotte_World,_Seoul.jpg

http://madamechewy.com/2014/05/06/korea-travelogue-lotte-world-diy-skincare-course-and-ice-gallery/

http://minyungee.wordpress.com/2010/08/13/july-11-lotte-world-the-last-supper/

http://aburntham.wordpress.com/

http://www.lotteworld.com/gate.asp

The Meiji Shrine

The Meiji Shrine (明治神宮 Meiji Jingū) is located in the heart of modern Tokyo, Shibuya. It is a Shinto shrine that is dedicated to the deified spirits of Emperor Meiji and his wife, Empress Shōken. The shrine, sheltered by a 700,000 square-meter forest of 120,000 evergreen trees, donated from all parts of Japan when it was established, was completed and dedicated to the Emperor Meiji and the Empress Shoken in 1920, eight years after the passing of the emperor and six years after the passing of the empress. The shrine was destroyed during the Second World War but was rebuilt shortly thereafter.

 

Colourful barrels of sake or rice wine on display

 

The shrine consists of two large areas: the Inner Garden, with the main shrine buildings; and the Outer Garden, with sports arenas and the Meiji Memorial Picture Gallery. The shrine grounds are entered through two of Japan’s largest torii (shrine gates), made of beautiful cypress wood more than 1,700 years old.

It was great to see all the different people who go there for tourism, leisure and ceremonies. Head for the central shrine of Meiji Jingu as this is where people gather. On Sundays you would be able to see many couples getting married. We were there for about 20 Minutes and witnessed 3 weddings in that time alone. The best thing is that admission is free! However, you have to pay 500 yen to be admitted into the Inner Garden. Check out the admission price and timings here: http://www.japan-guide.com/e/e3002.html

A ceremony held inside Meiji Shrine

Meiji Shine is the most famous shine in Japan and is relatively related to the Japanese’s normal life as there are many wedding graduations and mitzvahs there. Last but not least, the shine is also a place that people can pin their aspirations on the walls there.

Priests making their way to the Meiji Shrine

It is great for walking with plenty of shady areas. BUT, be warned, there are no drinks available in the park, so go prepared and bring enough drinks during the time you are there.

– Liu Mu

 

 

 

Reference:

http://www.meijijingu.or.jp/english/ceremonies/1.html

The Secrets Of Nature

Guangxi which locates in the south of China is one of the most beautiful nature sights in China. Guangxi is famous as the nature sights and a simple folkway. It attracts so many visitors to spend their vocation. It is really a wonder place to spend your holiday. It is serene and offers an amazingly beautiful view. Moreover, the people are very friendly and full of enthusiasm. Here are some pictures and videos to introduce Guangxi sights for you.

 

Guangxi has so many beautiful places.

 

First one is Lijiang

Second is Xiang Ba Shan (the elephant nose)

Guangxi Lijiang is one of the most famous sights in the world. It has been the world intangible cultural heritage because his special natural sights and people habits. So go to visit Lijiang. You will find the amazing about nature.

– Frank

 

 

References:

http://www.guilincits.com/jingdian/71.html

The Beauty Of Hong Kong

Hong Kong is one of the most beautiful cities in the world. Hong Kong has 293 buildings taller than 500 feet which is sixty more as compared to New York City which came in second. What’s so good about Hong Kong? The food and scenery and what’s more is that it is the best city to live in! If you love scenic environments, you have to visit the Tian Tan Buddha. You will have to get there via Ngong Ping cable car. While on the way up there, you will see an amazing view of several mountains.

(A photo of me with the Buddha)

The Peak is Hong Kong’s highest point on the island. The view it offers makes The Peak one of the most popular attractions in Hong Kong. Looking down at the city from this famous vantage point provides the best view of the city. Do take note: Do not choose a day with hazy or unpredictable weather as you would not be able to see a single thing!

 

Tsim Sha Tsui is another one of the popular attractions in Hong Kong because of its Avenue of Stars as well as the vantage point to catch the Symphony of Lights show. Avenue of Stars have its popular commemorative plaques, celebrity handprints, descriptive milestones and a life-size statue of kung fu action hero Bruce Lee.

A Symphony of Lights is staged every night at 8pm. If you would like to know more details of the show, do visit this website http://www.tourism.gov.hk/symphony/english/details/details.html. Here is a video clip of the Symphony of Lights.

 

– Gavin

 

References:

http://planetden.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/03/hong_kong___victoria_peak_by_shiroang-d5q0qxf.jpg

http://mltours.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/05/Victoria-Peak.jpg

Animals’ Wondrous Habitats

Today’s post wouldbe about my past trip to the Singapore Zoo! As a student studying in Singapore, a visit to the Singapore Zoo is not to be missed. Let’s get on to the post, shall we?

 

The Singapore Zoo (新加坡动物园), which is formerly known as the Singapore Zoological Gardens, is known locally as the Mandai Zoo. It is located on the boundary of Upper Seletar Reservoir within Singapore’s forested central catchment area. The zoo was built at a cost of S$9m granted by the Government of Singapore and opened on 27 June 1973. It is operated by Wildlife Reserves Singapore, who also manages the neighbouring Night Safari and the Jurong Bird Park. (These are my other 2 favourites!)

The zoo consists of about 315 species of animals in the zoo, some of which are considered threatened species around the world. It also attracts about 1.6 million visitors each year.

 

The Singapore Zoo animal shows are popular with families where you can see trained zoo animals perform their special talents. There are also activities planned out for families with young children. Elephant rides and tours are available where one can get an elongated view of the world on the back of the gentle giant. Dining together with Orang Utans, one of the award-winning breakfast programme, Jungle Breakfast with Wildlife, has been appropriately set at their timber lodge-inspired Ah Meng Restaurant. While enjoying local favourites and tropical fruit juices, the Orang Utan family may just make a spectacular entrance. It’s an amazing sight to behold!

    

There are even timings for visitors to feed the animals such as chimpanzees, giraffes, otters, arowanas, hippos and more! However, be reminded to come early if you want to feed the animals as there is a limit to the amount of food they consume to prevent overfeeding. Check out their feeding times here: http://www.zoo.com.sg/shows-feedings/token-feeding-times.html.

 

Have you ever had breakfast with an Orang Utan? Or seen a Hamadryas baboon before? If you haven’t, don’t forget to visit them as well as the walkthrough exhibits and underwater galleries! They are open every day of the year from 8am – 6.30pm.

And here’s a picture of my friend – Frank. I only managed to take this picture before my camera ran out of battery. You may know him from his posts on this blog. 🙂

– Liu Mu

 

 

References:

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Singapore_Zoo

Giants on Earth? That’s right!

If you would like to have a totally different experience and spend your little vacation in a country across the world, then this post is the right one for you! This post would be about San Francisco aka the island where the sun always shines!

The San Francisco Giants are a Major League Baseball (MLB) team based in San Francisco, California, that plays in the National League West Division. They have won 22 National League pennants and appeared in 19 World Series competitions – both records in the National League. The Giants also consist of having the most Hall of Fame players in all of professional baseball.

(The Giants’ celebrating their victory over the Detroit Tigers in a four game sweep in the World Series at Comerica Park on Oct. 28, 2012 in Detroit)

 

One of my many leisure pursuits is to travel to San Francisco to visit the stadium of the San Francisco Giants. My Dad has always been a big fan of the San Francisco giants, and since young I’ve often heard him talk about it. I’ve always wanted to experience sitting on a bench in an open field and cheering for my supported team among thousands of spectators. Just imagine the adrenaline rush of anticipation! Hear the crowd roar!

Having visited London before, it is a great pleasure to experience a day in the life of how Londoners spend their day as compared to Singaporeans, and one of the most distinct features is their routine of receiving their daily newspaper by the train station before hurrying off to catch their train. I had a wonderful experience travelling to different cities in London with my Dad, and I hope to create more memories and experiences in the future.

 

Of course, I could not end off this post without mentioning the infamous Golden Gate Bridge, also located in San Francisco, CA, which is easily identifiable by its international orange colour. It took a total of 4 years to finish construction with 2,737 metres in length and 227 metres above the sea.

As a prominent landmark, it attracts at least 10 million visitors annually. Walkways along the sides of the roads are available to pedestrians and cyclists. Do not be overwhelmed nor afraid at the length of the bridge and how long it will take you to reach the other end of the bridge as the journey offers plenty of fabulous views. Biking along the bridge is one of the most popular ways to enjoy the moment and scenery. Once you get across, you’ll be able to see the Golden Gate Park National Recreation Area, which is the perfect place for park enthusiasts!

Skyscrapers and the tallest buildings can been seen drawing the well-known skyline of San Francisco. I’ve always wanted to experience how living in the countryside would be like, and travelling to San Francisco would be the perfect opportunity.

 

I might just plan a little surprise for my Dad during the end of year holidays! I can’t wait!

– Kerri

 

 

References:

http://whatchamccollums.blogspot.sg/p/mlb-stadium-tour.html

http://www.history.com/news/6-things-you-may-not-know-about-the-golden-gate-bridge

https://www.flickr.com/photos/kptripathi/6922527665/ http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/San_Francisco_Giants

http://nymag.com/daily/sports/2012/10/a-giants-tigers-world-series.html

Sydney’s Sea Life

Once again I’ll be sharing with you Sydney’s animals! But this time round it will be about Sydney’s underwater animals. As we went to both Sydney Sea Life Aquarium, which is located in the heart of Sydney at Darling Harbour, and Manly Sea Life Sanctuary, which is located along Manly Wharf, we bought the Sydney attractions combo 5 pass which allows you to visit 5 attractions in Sydney, enabling you to save up to $382! It’s a great deal, isn’t it? Well, let’s get into sharing my experience!

 

Sydney Sea Life Aquarium

As a tourist you are probably prepared to take pictures everywhere you go. However, you would be disappointed as there aren’t many pictures to take because it is very dark inside. Throughout this underwater visit you will see Australia’s unique freshwater and marine aquatic environments. At some parts of your journey you will encounter the beautiful dugongs. These are 2 of only 6 dugongs on display anywhere in the world. By the end of your journey you will have visited the Great Barrier Reef exhibit, which is one of the most impressive around the world.

Aren’t they adorable?

 

 

Manly Sea Life Sanctuary

Manly is not so much of an underwater world. In my opinion, it is more like a fish museum. Did you know? Manly is also fortunate enough to have a habitat for Little Penguins! The Little Penguin community has also been listed as one of the endangered population. Have you ever seen how an octopus consume its food? Here, you can watch animals getting fed by the keepers. You may even get a glimpse of how a shark egg looks like as well which is definitely a first experience for me. If you are daring enough try their Shark Dive Xtreme, it is a great opportunity for you to go face to face with the Grey Nurse Sharks, huge turtles, stingrays and other different creatures! However, there are also rules and if you are ineligible to dive they will not permit your entry.

Here is a video of Shark Dive Xtreme! I myself have yet to try it. If you have ever tried it, kudos to you!

 

– Gavin

 

 

References:

http://sydneyforeveryone.com.au/city/darling-harbour/zoos-wildlife/sea-life-sydney-aquarium/

http://www.manlysealifesanctuary.com.au/our-animals/penguin-cove/

Locks of Love

When we hear about Seoul, our first thought will be about K-pop. Yes, that’s right, K-pop! For example, the song “Gangnam Style” that is sung by Psy has gone into trend since 2012.

 

 

Apart from trying to get a glimpse of our favourite k-pop idols, there are various things to do while in Seoul such as sight-seeing from the top of a tower! As such, let me introduce to you a place in Seoul which I would definitely visit again the next time I visit South Korea.

 

This spectacular place I’m about to mention is ….(drumroll) ….the N Seoul Tower! Why did I choose this place? Well, the N Seoul Tower marks the highest point in Seoul and upon elevating in it, it allows you to view the entire city scape which is simply stunning!

 

Out of all the things and food that Seoul had to offer, this was my favourite. Located at the base of the tower were tree-shaped structures loaded with different types of locks. I remembered that on the 1^st day I visited this place, it puzzled me. I came up with the name “The Padlock Tree”. The padlocks are for couples to write their name or initials on it and the key of the padlock will be thrown away to symbolise their everlasting love. The actual name for it is Love Lock.

 

 

There were various kinds of locks such as bicycle padlocks, gate locks etc etc. It was heavily layered on the tree-shaped structures that it made me wonder if the tree could collapse under their weight.

 

Tourists and visitors have to actually ride a Namsan cable car to the mountain and walk to the tower. As N Seoul Tower is located on top of Mount Namsan, it offers great panoramic views of the entire city.

Bakeries and cafes are also available to visitors for snacks, drinks or even a light meal. Moreover, it offers an amazing scenic view through the built-in window.

What’s interesting about this tower is that in the Digital Observatory, which offers a 360 view of Seoul, each window panel is labelled with several cities and street names where one can look for a city facing the window through the telescopes. Even though it is not exactly possible to view the cities, for example, Tokyo, many people can be seen trying to look through the telescope.

What are your opinion and thoughts on Seoul when you first heard it, and why you would like to visit it? I would love to hear about it!

– Keith

 

 

References:

http://kimjunhyung.wordpress.com/

http://busanarama.blogspot.sg/2011/01/n-seoul-tower.html

http://www.adventuresofagoodman.com/national-geographic-channel-get-lost-in-korea-greg-goodman/

http://www.travelbugholiday.com/2013/10/seoul-tower-seoul-korea/

Beijing

Beijing is unarguably one of the most visited places in the world. Every year millions of people come to Beijing to see the capital of China.  There are in fact a great number of tourist attractions and historic sites in Beijing, thus it takes a while to soak in the sights and sounds of the city. If you only have a short stay in Beijing, you should visit some of the top ten places in Beijing City. This way, you can say that you have been to Beijing city.

 

1. Forbidden City ( the Imperial Palace )

The Forbidden City is the ideal place for you to begin your exploration of Beijing by discovering its roots. Built between 1406 and 1420 with over 9,000 rooms, it burned down and was rebuilt, and most of the architecture you see dates back to the 18th century in the Qing and Ming Dynasty. It is really very spectacular.

 

2. Tiananmen Square

Lying in the heart of Beijing City, it is a place for massive parades and gathering. In 1949, from a rostrum on Tiananmen (the Gate of Heavenly Peace), Chairman Mao announced the establishment of the People’s Republic of China. Tiananmen Square is circled by Tianan men (Gate of Heaven Peace) on its north, Monument to the People’s Heroes and Chairman Mao’s Mausoleum on the south, the National Museum of China on its East and the Great Hall of the People on its west.

 

3. The Great Wall of China

As we all know, The Great Wall is well-known among many around the world. It has been one of the top ten wonders of the world. Every year it attracts so many visitors and even locals.

 

4. Temple of Heaven ( Tiantan )

Temple of Heaven is one of the real highlights of Beijing, being one of the most sacred sites for the past five centuries. Situated in the southern Beijing City, it worked as a sacrificial compound buildings for the Ming and Qing emperors. It boasts of the largest sacrificial place in Beijing among a few imperial altars to Heaven, Earth, the Sun and the Moon.

 

There are also some modern buildings in Beijing such as The Bird’s Nest, which is the National Stadium, and the Water Cube located beside it, which is the National Aquatics Center aka Water Park where they held the 2008 Olympics.

 

The Water Park!

Inside the Bird’s Nest Stadium. Wow that’s big!

 

 

 

Beijing is a sleepless city, so you can easily find something for you at whenever and wherever you like. Enjoy!

– Frank

 

 

 

Resources:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RbYEwsIjxQo

http://www.ra.ethz.ch/www/www2008/index.html

http://flag.likefar.com/tiananmensanwen/201103/35.html

http://www.allianceabroad.com/china/great-wall-of-china/

http://www.intoyulin.com/newsinfo/12961/

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Temple_of_Heaven

http://www.blooloop.com/news/proslide-news-round-up-raging-waters-wild-wadi/2601

http://www.sglxs.net/htm/quyu/zhongguo/2013_05_29.html

http://www.panoramio.com/photo/14668497