Manukan Island : Parasailing

Nice beaches, superb clear waters, what are we to do? Laying back for me isn't an option. Going wild is. So we took our chance of doing a typical island holiday activity. I wanted to take jet skiing, but Val suggested that we do parasailing. Parasailing?? How could I say no. I would one day jump of the Niagara Falls anyway. A great dream to be achieved.

A parasiling activity for 10 minutes costs RM180 for a pair and RM100 for singles but because of the bargain, we got it for RM130 a pair. I was suppose to be only 10 minuts, but then bring a friend aka Fanny who will talk her way out of the operators, we were soaring high for 20 minutes plus! I won't explain the sunburn. I was very satisfied. And someone had a new Facebook friend.

Yeay!! we got the colorful parachute!!

It was our first time doing parasailing. The excited Val turned nervous right before her fleet. But in the end, it was an experience never to be missed. It was hot, but it did'nt matter. I was at peace. We were taken to 20 meters (or 20 feet, I did`nt quite listen) up above the sea. I not sure if that's a good thing if you're afraid of heights.

Before going up, the operator will ask you if you'd like to be dipped. Even more better right? But up above air, Val was like, "Eh Ruth, what happens if there are phirannas below? Or sharks. You never know."

Semakin ada phiranna semakin saya mau celup. One fact to learn, that I learned from all my Aqua museum trips, phirannas are not as dangerous as it was shown in the movies. And I'm not an amazonian. Then I stared at the sea below, if there were sharks? God knows I was bleeding. Everything was going to be ok. Hahaha.

We were dipped about three times. It was cooling.

Wave happy people =D

Then it was time for us to get back on the boat. The operator winded up the rope and as we got closer Val said "What happens if we accidentaly drop right before we get on the boat? The motor. The motor!!" *closes eyes*

The sucker I am for things that scare people to death, I never think about such things. To me all things will be well even if I'm shot out of a cannon. The more my mum says it's dangerous, the more I'll stick my head into it. Then I started to think about the motor. It was like calculation rotaions when the dentist was drilling my teeth. "It's gonna be fine laa" I answered. Well, it was.

So glad we did Parasailing. 

I think I need another adventure right now. Coz I'm bored.

Sabah Islands : Manukan Island

The state of Sabah has one thing that makes it different from the other states of Malaysia. And this is too the reason why I fell in love with Sabah. Nothing makes me go all gaga about nature compared to this. Even if it's seeing the Swiss Alps. I love Islands! Well, who does'nt??

Maybe those who are so afraid of the sunlight. Heliophobia. Yes I looked that up in Google. Amazes me that people even come out with scientific names for fears. Why did'nt it ever appear in Twilight?

So back to the Islands. Emerald green turquoise blue or whatever specific name or code there is for the oceans color. I can't say no to pretty islands! I want to own my own Island. Did you know you can bid them on eBay? Yes. Coolio. Pulau Riau is not mine. Thanks.

How cool is out creator?

Sabah is packed with islands along its coast. Well known would be the island of Sipadan where 21 hostages were kidnapped by Abu Sayyaf in the year 2000. Another famous island is Pulau Tiga which was the location for the first season of Survivor, also in the year 2000. One things about the islands is that they are so succluded and hidden from the world that not a lot of people recognize how beutiful these islands are. Well, some people actually don't even know where Malaysia is unless they know Formula 1 or Petronas. If not than, its "Do you know Singapore? Do you know where Thailand is?? Yeap Malaysia is in between"

Most of the islands are far off Kota Kinabalu which is the capital of Sabah. For example Tiga and Sipadan. But if you really do have the time to go around, please do take a dip in the Sipadan waters. I heard that it's the best diving spot in the world. If you're just around the capital city itself, you have a choice of choose three islands nearby. Mamutik, Manukan and Sapi. It only takes a 20 to 30 minute boat ride form the Jesselton Point. We only did a day trip to Manukan Island because we did'nt have much time in hand. Manukan is a good choice if you want to see fishes, for corals, opt for Pulau Mamutik.

There are island hopping packages. A two island hop or a three island hop. A two way boat ride to Manukan costs only RM15 to RM18 if you're a student. If you know how to bargain, you'll get it way cheaper. Because we got ours for RM12 per person, thanks to Fannys aunty's friend. She bargains really well. Not only a boat for the six of us but also parasailing at RM130 for two persons and RM10 for snorkeling. The original price for parasailing is RM180 for two and it's suppose to be RM20 for snorkeling.

Not an island without snorkeling.

Obviously we were so happy. I'm not much of a bargainer cos I don't know how to make my way through it but if you have friends that bargains well, put them to use. After much discussion, we bought some titbits, drinks and I got myself a hat. It is better if you buy your food outside of the point itself because they jack up the prices here since it's a tourist spot. Then we got on our boat and we were on our way to have the best sunburn ever.

Ndak sabar bha saya!

When we got tot Manukan, obviously I was already over the moon. It's so pretty!

I'm in love with this pic. It looks like an advertisement.



Isn't it pretty?

Next post will be on our activities on the island.

Kota Kinabalu : A Gem

Born and raised in East Malaysia, this is my first time ever stepping in the neighbouring state. Labuan is a Federal territory. Not Sabah. (Thats why we have 14 stripes on the Malaysian flag.)

My number one reason to be here is to fulfill my life long dream of experiencing crystal clear blue waters and an amazing island. Yes, Sabah has it. It's like a hidden Gem. Well, not really if you're a hard core open sea diver. Sabah would be number 1 on your list.

In awe. This was taken from the plane before landing.

Attractions of Sabah not only limits to its majestic islands. Mount Kinabalu stands tall behind the city. No, it's not near that you could walk by foot to. It's a 3 hours drive and public transports are hard to take. I heard that there's usually a bus going up, and you'll have to look for your own transport down. Taxis are expensive and costs around rm200 which is 50€ at most. Because of the hassel going to the mighty mountain, I'll leave that plan to next time. I came here alone and had two of my friends who are studying in KK to bring me around.

Is this sword fish the landmark of Kota Kinabalu?

While waiting for my friend, I walked the shopping complexes and also the waterfront. people always say that it's scary to walk alone in Malaysia especially if you're a girl. I think it's only in the mindset of us Malaysians because there are thousands of single lady travellers out there and also in KK itself. Though there are funky looking people who look like they will cut you up and sell your lungs in the black market. If not, I'd say that Malaysia is very safe compared to places like Algeria.

This would be the Waterfront behind Wisma Merdeka. Standing there, I've realised how much I miss being outside with the wind blowing strongly at me. Lots of people gather here in the eveing to enjoy the sea breeze. Some are waiting for their transport, some bring their children for walks, some just come to enjoy and of course, the tourists who wants to be a part of KK itself.

At this part of the city, everything is laid by the waters. New shopping complexes competing with old ones holding brands like Esprit and MNG. Theres a block specially for tourist info counters before the entrance of Suria Sabah. The famous markets and seafood arenas are also placed in a row siding the open sea. It's very easy to get to places as long as you see the waters.

These fishermen boats operate food stalls by the waters.

After a strool along the Waterfront, we went to another place also called the Waterfront which serves food and nightlife. It is located in front of the Api Api center. This place is a hit among the tourists and they serve lots of varieties of food. There even are massage beds overlooking the sea if you'd like some pampering.

Global selections

Sitting here, we had our juices and talked while enjoying the breeze. There were few fishing boats at their nightly routine.

Give a man a fish, you have fed him for today. 

Teach a man to fish, and you have fed him for a lifetime

I have fallen in love with Sabah. A few downsides are that there are too much (uncountable) illegal immigrants here. I wonder why isn't the Government doing anything about it. Floating houses are popping up like minesweepers about to eat KK itself. I've seen kids below 10 going around selling titbits and toys. Some do their business in the midst of traffic chasing cars and stuff. They should be put in schools and be thought well. It's sad. I think this is an even bigger case to look into rather than stupid sex tapes.

Lion Dance

During my holidays at home, I was still lucky enough to have a feel of one of Malaysia biggest cultural celebration. Chinese New Year. Not that I was home for the festival, but people were still in the festive mood.

Chinese New Year marks the first day of the first month in the traditional Chinese calendar and ends with Chap Goh Mei which is on the 15th day. Chap Goh Mei is also known as the Chinese Valentines Day in Malaysia where single women would write their name on oranges and throw them in the river in their scout for true love.

One tradition that always impress me would be the Lion Dance. It may look simple, but I believe training to be a Lion dancer is hell. It takes months to choreograph. The movements, excitement and most importantly core strength is the fundumental of a lion dance. No lion is ever weak. Even if it's made out of paper mache. It always amazes me how they jump on high stilts and how much strength they put into carrying each other. The dance has very close relations to wushu and kung fu.

Every Chinese company would recruit a Lion Dance team to come and perform every season. It is believed that the ritual will ward off bad luck, scare evil spirits and of course, usher in good fortune for the new year.

It was my luck that the Lion Dance performance will be present on the next day in the building my mum works in. I used to work here after my Form 5 and they had a performance at that time too. I was excited. By the sounds of the drums, I ran across the road just to watch it. When I was younger I would cry as loud as the drums cos I was super terrified.

A coach or a leader would guide the Lions as they go through a building. He would wistle commands for the lions and make sure they are in position.

This Lion was busy making flowers out of oranges. Business operators would put out Mandrin oranges for the Lions. Sometimes they do put out cabbages too.

The Lion would go from Agency door to door to collect ang pows put up by operators. maybe someone can tell my why do they put the ang pows up high above the door??

Hello Lion. Bring me luck. *tocey tocey*

It's so obvious this two lions are males.

Hope you had a great New Year!

Santubong beach Skimboarding

There seem to be a hot new water sport in town. Skimboarding.

On the first weekend back home in Kuching, we had a surprise birthday party for a friend, well not exactly friend, we're like sisters to death. The party was planned long before the actual date and the location was in Camp Permai. Camp Permai is more of a recreational park with chalets and a jungle pool, best of all, connected to a beach which is also shared with Damai Puri Resort.

During my high school days, it was like a routine to spend a day here during the school holidays or before the holidays with my friends. I even had my 16th Birthday BBQ here. Owhh 16.. how long ago were you.. 7 years *sigh*

Happy 21st birthday Bin Bin.

Hope you liked the SURPRISE!!

Santubong Beach is considered the nearest beach to Kuching town. To me that is. It's only 30 to 45 minutes away. Though it could'nt be compared to other white sandy blue crystal water beaches, I'm glad that Santubong beach exists. because I have millions of memories I can drown in here. Especially when my sister and my friends comes back scarred. 

Ok back to the Skimboarding thing. I never knew Skimboarding existed. I only know Surfing. Not that I know how to do it. Well, seems like it's kind of popular here. During that particular Sunday, lots of youngsters were by the beach hoping to catch a wave.



Cool right? I realized I took too many pictures of this guy. I seem like a stalker. *I'm not*

I was just sitting there snapping away and he really had this sport going on. He was standing alert by the shores waiting for every chance to ride. It was exciting. I was clicking the camera like hell. New 12-24mm. *wink*

Till the next wave. Tchuss!

Euro Disney : A Merry Christmas from Mickey Mouse and Friends

We wanted to make our Christmas a special one. What is more special than having it with our favourite disney characters in their magical land where everyday is like Christmas.

This time, we checked into Disneyland Hotel so it would be easier for us to have more magical hours and not die out in the freezing cold. Yes, it was cold. But we presevered. We overcomed 12 hours having a Disney Christmas out in the winter. When you're staying in a Disney Hotel, park tickets are inclusive in accordance to your nights of stay. So if you're staying a 2 night in their hotel, you'll ge t a 3 day Park Ticket. it's actually worth it if you're going in a group. Busses are also provided from the park to the hotels.

Yes it was definitely cold. Try playing out when it's -13°C. So sad right? Nevertheless we had our family moment and also our Christmas Eve dinner in the Steakhouse.

Thank God it was a sunny day on the 25th itself. A Christmas present indeed.

Though it was my second time here, I still feel the excitement seeing them dancing and singing. It was all in the Christmas spirit. We hummed Christmas Carols the whole day long and even more special during the Christmas season is that they have a Disney Illumination Parade in the dark.

Euro Disney has two parks. The Disneyland Park and the Walt Disney Studios Park. The Walt Disney Studios Park is NOT to be missed if your heart is still capable of beating in a very high rate and not cause you to have a traumatic disorder. We should have went here first in the summer. With no regrets, please enter the Studios park first the next time you're visiting Euro Disney. Even cooler was the new Toy Story section!! gagagaa~

please admit you cried while watching Toy Story 3.

When you start thinking that all rides in the parks are meant for little children, you are so wrong. I was so sure I was very wrong after I rode the East Australian Current. my sister and I were begging my mum to on on the ride with us since we've waited for almost an hour in the que. Those danger signs were really true. It was not for the weak hearted.

And we didn't go on anymore rides after that.



We've surrendered to WD Studios and went back to Classical Disneyland Park.

Back to Buzy-ness

My last post was dated 28th Febuary 2011. I miss blogging and I've come out with so many things to blog about during my Winter Break back home in Malaysia. I'm still quite tired now though I've slept for quite while now. I'm just back last Thursday afternoon and class is suppose to be starting tomorrow but got postponed to Wednesday.

I'm going back to lay on my bed while watching some Korean dramas.

A preview from my lstest trip.

Bali, Indonesia

4th - 7th March 2011