Category: Travel

Travel related forum. Going somewhere, and like fellow SilverHairs to join you. Last minute plans, long range plans. Reach out to good company. Not for commercial travel companies.

2nd trip to Padang and Bukit Tinggi in West Sumatra

After the 1st trip to Padang and Bukit Tinggi, I received many feedback from SHC members that they missed the 1st trip and those who want to go again. I understand the feeling of missing the boat and curiosity of finding out " what’s is so special" about that place.

Personally I enjoyed myself with the grounp of nice people, great food and unique scenery despite of the hassles, unwarranted matters pop up during the trip. 

I suggest to have the 2nd trip on 1-4 August. It will be 4 days 3 nights.

Hopefully we will have enough time to eat more lobsters, big crabs, prawn and fish, avocado juice and authentic nasi Padang.

This time we must have our Indonesian massage not in a rush but really relax and fun. After all it is very cheap.

We should do what the local do in Padang and Bukit Tinggi; roaming in the wet market, see things you never see in Singapore, take a ride on the horse carriage, talk to local folks, listen to the pounding waves, breathe slowing the cool crisp air. 

The angmoh from Australia know West Sumatra province has a hugh wave playing ground and they just come all the way to surf. Unbelievable. Actually West Sumatra is resource rich. It has large deposits of coal, copper, lead and zinc, cement, timber(in the past), gold and silver. 

Lobsters are abundant and that is why we get to enjoy our cheap juicy lobsters. This time we must bring wasabi and we make lobster sushi ourself. I was told live bamboo lobster is the best lobster sushi.    

West Sumatra produces the most bird’s nest in the world. Unfortunately not many people know and the bird’s nest caves are heavily protected. Part of Brand’s bottle bird’s nest come from West Sumatra.

Tiger Airways is still having zero fares to Padang and I think 1-4 August may be a good time. 

Those confirmed and already booked the airticket

  1. Chin Hee Weng
  2. James Tan CL
  3. Susan Tan LC
  4. Lee Ah Nee
  5. Susan Chang
  6. Ivan Lim
  7. Lim Tian Soo
  8. Norlinda
  9. Arthur Yap
  10. Peggy Yap
  11. Richard Kee
  12. Jane Kee
  13. Eileen Thean
  14. Andrew Thio
  15. Bira
  16. Mega
  17. Lin Chuah
  18. Jane Tan
  19. Steven Chan
  20. Daisy Yeo
  21. Sam Goh
  22. Dolly Lim
  23. CJ
  24. Oi Cheng
  25. Rene Leong
  26. Kristin Leong
  27. Gary Chua
  28. Shirley Yuen

Click album1, album2 and album3 for photos

2D/1N Trip to Batu Pahat

Hi guys, (excuse the typo and spacing errors),

Last night we met and agreed on the following itinerary. Ther is only space for another as Genet cannot come.

  • The Treasurer for this trip is Pauline Chew. Please pay to her if you have not already done so.
  • We have agreed that all the drivers and Abel are ‘exempted’ from the $50 fee. Everything else is prorated.

Please ask your questions here for clarification.  Some people are trying to get another car, and if successful there will be 20 people. So keep your ears opened.

Thanks very much. Don’t eat too much from now till May 22nd, save your calories for Batu Pahat. Batu Pahat here we come.

Itinerary:  Johor 2 days 1 nite Getaway

22nd May 2009

  • 09.00am Pick up at various points.
  • 10.00am Meeting point at Shell station Johore after ICA.
  • 10.30am Proceed to Kluang for lunch.
  • 12.30pm Lunch in Kluang.
  • 02.30pm Coffee/Tea at Railway station.
  • 04.00pm Check in Katerina Hotel Batu Pahat.
  • 05.00pm Viewing giant fish at Seringtin (optional)
  • or Ladies to hairdresser (optional).
  • 07.00pm Dinner steam boat with Chili crab at Minyat Beku.
  • 09.00pm Back to Hotel.

23rd May 2009

  • 08.00am Buffet breakfast in Hotel.
  • 09.00am Meeting Hotel’s owner Dato Au (Photo session).
  • 10.00am View Batu Pahat on Mt. Soga from Mr. Liew’s Hse.
  • 11.00am Depart BP for JB.
  • 01.00pm Lunch at Fatty Heng Rest at Kempas.
  • 02.00pm Shopping at New Carrefour – Tmn Impian.
  • 03.30pm Tea time at Toast Box – Bread Talk.
  • 05.00pm Back to Singapore.
  1. Food in itinerary is non Halal and non vegetarian.
  2. Kluang:- No option for both.
  3. Batu Pahat:- Halal and vegetarian available.
  4. Johore:- No option for both.
  5. Cost:- SD50/- approx. accommodation, food & transport.

Spore pick up points:

  1. East: Bedok MRT Stn beside hawker ctr.
    Contact:  Paul Kong, Time: 9am
  2. Central: Aljunied MRT Stn
    Contact: Charles Chua, Time: 9am
  3. West: Jurong East MRT Stn.
    Wait at NTUC beside pedestrian crossing.
    Contact:Goh Chin Huat, Time: 9am

Members going:

  1. Paul Kong-   Chief Topo Officer     
  2. Peggy Kong- Mrs Chief Topo Officer
  3. Jane Loh
  4. Sally Tan (All above in PK’s car)
  5. Sam Goh- Asst CTO
  6. Pauline Chew- Chief Financial Officer
  7. Marge Tian
  8. Lena Ho (All above in SG’s car)
  9. Terence Seah- Big Boss, SHC
  10. Daisy Yeo- Asst CFO,
  11. Abel Tan- Discoverer and Pathfinder,
  12. Neo Seok Cheng- C Teochew(Talking) Officer + photographer
  13. Charles Chua- your humble servant
  14. Pearl Goh 
  15. Richard Kee and
  16. Jane Kee
  17. Dolly Lim
  18. Rene Leong

Car Pool Arrangement as follows:
1) Paul, Peggy, Jane Loh and Sally Tan
2) Sam Goh, Marg Tian, Lena Pauline Chiew
3) Charles Chua, Abel Tan, Terence, Sock Cheng, Daisy Yeo and Rene Leong
4) Richard Kee, Jane Kee, Dolly Lim, Pearl Goh

Hotel Accomodation Arrangement
1) Paul and Peggy Kong
2) Richard and Jane Kee
3) Terence Seah and Abel Tan
4) Charles Chua and Sam Goh
5) Jane and Sally
6) Marg & Pauline Chiew
7) Lena and Pearl
8) Daisy and Rene
9) Dolly and Sock Cheng

REGISTRATION IS CLOSED…..

Click here for photos

A trip to Padang and Bukit Tinggi, West Sumatra

I am impressed by some of the SHC members who volunteer to lead members to visit certain places where they know well.  I woud likewise volunteer to introduce a trip to Padang and Bukit Tinggi in West Sumatra where I personally go to frequently in the past.

Padang is the capital city of West Sumatra Province of Sumatra island. The people here is of Minangkabau descent and dialect which is simliar to Melayu in Malaysia. Bukit Tinggi is a mountain resort and a great place to relax. Around Bukit Tinggi we can go to Haran Nature Reserve, Singkarak Lake, Jam Gagung, Japanese Tunnel ( people still believe Japanese hide tons of gold in the secret compartment in the tunnel during World War ll). Many tourists are attracted to come due to the cool climate and peaceful ambient.

Tiger Airways fly from Singapore direct to Padang on Tue, Thur and Sat and take only one hour. The air fare is cheap and cost of travel is relatively low. My good friend is a big lobster and sea cucumber distributor in Padang. Those who like lobster or crab can eat until you vomit. Unknowingly to most people, West Sumatra produce the most cave bird’s nest in the world. Each harvest total 3,000 kg of bird’s nest.   

So far, the following had booked air ticket and confirmed going

  1. Chin WH
  2. Pearl Goh
  3. Shirley Wee
  4. Ann Lim
  5. Gingko
  6. Terence Seah
  7. Cath Yeo
  8. Tim Liu
  9. Freddy and
  10. Lisa Ong
  11. Helen Wong
  12. Lawrence Lee
  13. Sock Cheng
  14. Karen Thio
  15. Lorraine Chia
  16. SK Chua
  17. Helen Kuek
  18. Eileen Lee
  19. Paul
  20. Peggy Kong
  21. Jane Loh
  22. Victor Wee
  23. Rose White
  24. Lawrence Khan
  25. Marg Tian
  26. Lucia Tan
  27. Derrick Tan

  Click here for photos   

Taken for a ‘ride’ in JB town

Sometime last year with my sister and her friend I drove in to Scudai JB to visit her apartment. Later in the afternoon she wants to go scouting for some furniture. I drove them to a row of shops nearby. After dropping them at the shop I went to look for a parking space. Not able to found one I decided to drive over next door where a petrol station is.

Having parked my car I decided to get out from the car for a breather. Soon, I was approached by a man holding a plastic bag. He showed me a camera in the bag. I told him that I was not interested but he insists that I should at least have a peek at the camera. From that look I was tempted, it looks like a new digital camera and I asked him how much? 600 ringits was quoted, I told him not interested again. He then asked me how much I will consider. I said 50 ringits, and he counter 200 ringits. From the glimpse it seems a good buy and I foolishly offer 100 ringits.

I said let me at least inspect the camera, he answered no, dun do it outside as people will see. He suggested, how about look at it in my car? My feelers were out, better not wait he drive my car away, how? I paid him the money and he asks me again for transport money and I gave him another 20 ringits, wat the nerve!

The scenario was I was alone; therefore he got the gut to approach me. It may not happen if I am in a group. I thought I have a deal, he probably couldn’t believe that a sucker was born every day. This may seem a small incident as I was not robbed or hurt. We have heard of numerous stories of innocent victims falling prey to the crimes wave over here!

I learned my lesson, dun be tempted easily. After I took over the camera, I found that it was not a digital camera and it also not working at all! I wanted to ask someone to kick me in the butt! How silly can I be to fall for such a scam!

Do you have a more interesting or ‘better not remember’ story to tell? Come on, let’s liven this post a bit more!

Dan

One Day/One Night Johore Seafood Tour

Maximum pax is 16 persons (including myself and 2 others as co-leaders). 

Interested members, please pick your choice from the following 2 destinations, and the majority selection prevail:-

Batu Pahat (Straits of Malacca seafood) with optional river-cruise, Sungai Api Api. 

                                                        OR

Mersing (South China Sea seafood) with optional boat-cruise to Pulau Besar.

  • 22nd May (Friday)

9.00 Depart by bus (yellow-coloured Causeway bus) from Ban San / Queen Street junction terminal

10.30-45am  Arrive at Larkin terminal

11.10am Depart for Batu Pahat  OR  11.30am Depart for Mersing

Both destinations take about 2hours 10/15mins (without breaks)

Upon arrival Batu Pahat, check-in Hotel Garden (70 plus ringgit or more)

Upon arrival Mersing, check-in Hotel Seri Malaysia (90 plus ringgit or more)

Other hotel choices are available upon majority’s request

  • 23rd May (Saturday) 

10.00am Optional river or boat cruise OR detour to Keluang and take 1.05pm train for home

2.30pm depart BATU PAHAT

3.00pm depart MERSING

Registration :

  1. Bira
  2. Eyvonne Chew
  3. S.K. Chua
  4. Genet Leong
  5. Sockie
  6. Daisy Yeo
  7. Pauline Chew
  8. Norlinda ?
  9. Ah Nee ?

More Yunnan Trips

"Ni Hao"! Here is another trip date/itinerary to yunnan.

This year, you can also join trip in the month of June, August, October and December 09. Please email me for itinerary. Each august in yunnan has its season of fruits and weather which will decide where are the best destinations inside Yunnan. Of course I still need to give myself sometime to do my work. For the trip to go, we need around 8 pax.

Following is the tentative end april trip itinerary. Will be revised if necessary. If folks going on the trip are interested, I am open to abandon few destinations and accommodate to visit the Yuan Yang Rice Terrace in south Yunnan. According to Nature Products Network,

Yuan Yang Rice Terraces: Definitely the world’s most spectacular!
If you have seen the famous Banaue rice terraces of the Ifugaos in The Philippines and then visit the endless rice terraced mountains of Yuan Yang in Southern Yunnan, you regret having wasted time and gone through an unsafe trip on Luzon’s killer roads. Compared with Ifugao, the Hani people in Yuan Yang have much larger mountains and gorgeous sites to cultivate. Their endless irrigated terraces are giving a new meaning to paddy rice cultivation in Asia.

Anyway, email me at ethniceast@gmail.com for your inqueries etc.,

Itinerary

Program
Day 1
Tue		 Depart Singapore at 8am. Arrive Kunming at 12pm and transfer into New Era Hotel Service Apt. After check in, we will then walk around nearby shopping malls, public art gallery, Flower and Birds Street, etc. Dinner at famous local “Cross The Bridge Noodle” Restaurant. At the restaurant, you will also see a few ethnic dance performances. After dinner free and easy, walk around other food stalls area including dog meat stalls. Coffee before sleeping.
Day 2
Wed		 After breakfast, transfer to Organic Farm for overnight stay. See and understand how organic vegetables and fruits are grown, we will have lunch and dinner with organic meals even organic eggs the next morning. Chickens and pigs here are also organically grown. Also learn and understand how it will protect your health and environment. If you want, we will arrange for you to do some simple farming work at the 110 acres farm.
Day 3
Thurs		 Breakfast at Farm. Check out and transfer to 5 hours coach bus to go to Old City Dali. Lunch on the road. Arriva Dali and transfer to ethnic Bai Guesthouse in the old city. Walk around the Dali Old City, “The Great Walls of Yunnan”, eat and shop around “Foreigner’s Street”. Visit 2 old churches in Dali old city. The 80 years old catholic church is built in the shape like an Ark, Noah’s Ark! The protestant church is 100 over years. Dinner at local ethnic Bai restaurant.
Day 4
Fri		 Early breakfast at local café. Those who want to see the morning wet market got to wake up earlier. Walk up a bit CangShan Mountains to Dali Filming Studio, catch a good view of Dali Old City and Camellia/Peony Flowers Nursery. Return for lunch, check out and transfer to coach to go to Lijiang, 3 hours journey. Check into guesthouse and visit Lijiang Original Ancient Town. Dinner at local restaurant with many herbal local dishes. After dinner continue to tour Lijiang Old City, those who want can go to see the modern cultural dance and opera show of the local ethnic groups, it is of good performing standard (at your own expense). Or you can shop at the old city for many herbal products here. Home of the ethnic Naxi folks.
Day 5
Sat		 Breakfast at local cafe and then go for Hot Spring Spa (at your own expense). If not in time, we will have the spa in Kunming. The hot spring here is more natural and has a bit of the sulphuric content. After lunch return to Dali have dinner and then take night train back to Kunming.
Day 6
Sun		 Upon arrival, transfer to hotel and then breakfast. Free and easy for the morning. In the after afternoon, those who are keen should go to the Minority Village Theme Park to see the culture, lifestyle and dances of the 18 minority groups of Yunnan China (at your own expense). Dinner at Mao Ze Dong Restaurant of spicy Hunan dishes. After dinner free and easy.
Day 7
Mon		 After breakfast free and easy for shopping. Lunch at Porridge Queen Restaurant. Hot spring Spa(Included) from 7 pm to 7 am overnight stay till the next morning.
Day 8 Breakfast at Spa. Morning Free and easy and transfer to airport for flight return to Singapore
 

 

Karimun Island trip

 

 Hi Friends 

 Since it is a majority decision, then this trip becomes a 1day/1night event.  But I shall leave earlier, as planned a day beforehand, ie on Thursday 26th March.

 As relayed to you at yesterday’s SCH meeting, Lily please call Indo Falcon-62783167 to reconfirm Departure time on Friday 27th as the ferry’s departure timetable do change to an hour or two later from published time at the last minute.   Lily, do please sms/call me just before you guys depart from Habourfront so that I can be ready to receive your arrival at Tanjung Balai.  I shall wear a bright red T-shirt, parking myself in the public-awaiting area just otside the Customs & Immigration concourse.

 The fare (double than normal) is 10,000rupiahs($1.30/33) per person for the journey from ferry jetty to Hotel Maxi, a distance approximately from CK Tang to Centrepoint, Orchard Road.  Will arrange for all vehicles to be air-conditioned.  Lily, do please let me know by 25th March, the number of rooms needed.

 Just to recap the day’s itinerary, say 30-45minutes after checking into hotel, we shall visit Gunong Karimun Waterfall.  Our nasi-padang lunch will be in the vincinity of Hotel Maxi.  The venue of the eveneing’s seafood dinner will be confirmed after I make further enquiry.

 Lily, appreciate your help, and make sure travellers’ ferry tickets are bought Two-way.

 

 Abel Tan

Back to Basics – Kelong@The Water Lodge, 1-2 May 2009

Hello fellow SHC member lets escape from the modern world and immerse ourself in tranquility, for a short fishing trip to The Water Lodge, a small and humble private kelong resort off a sleepy tiny island, Pulau Tunjuk. Located in the Riau Archipelago, between Pulau Batam and Pulau Bintan.

If you fancy a simple, basic and laid back getaway, without having the luxuries of a 5 star hotel, and escaping to a realm of total bliss and self rejuvenation, then The Water Lodge is the place for you.

And for fishing enthusiasts, bring along your fishing gear, reel or lines, here’s the place for your great fishing spot. Seafood and local delights, Teochew porridge, board games, play cards or mahjong until the wee hours of the morning, coffee, tea and water round the clock, Island hopping, Local village and kampong visits* (if time permits) can be arrange as well.

Remembered Terence di quite a stunt, able to sleep by the edge of the wooden planks during the last kelong trip in April 2008, we dare you to try.

The primary activity that most who visit The Water Lodge love to do, is simply to enjoy the freedom of doing nothing and chilling out, embracing the solitude and the sea breezes, catching a tan or reading a favorite book, away from the usual hustle & bustle city life that we have all gotten so accustomed to.

Read more here : http://www.thewaterlodge.com/

Cost for 2D/1N is $180 –
All packages are inclusive of:
– 2 way ferry tickets ( Singapore – Batam – Singapore )
– 2 way land transfers ( Batam – Local Pier – Batam )
– 2 way sea transfers ( Local Pier – The Water Lodge – Local Pier )
– All taxes ( no extra +++, GST, VAT, sales, passenger or seaport taxes )
– The Water Lodge accommodation – All meals ( 4 meals/ 1 full day )
– Free flow of tea, coffee, and drinking water
– Local fruits and snacks
– Welcome snacks ( local nonya kueh )
– Welcome drink ( fresh coconut juice )

Recreational facilities/activities like:
– Day passes to our 2 private beaches – Permata beach & Tunjuk beach where you can swim, sun-bath, beach comb or play beach games.
– Island hopping and kampong village visits to 2 nearby islands – Pulau Tunjuk and Pulau Subang Mas
– Bubu fish trap visits, light fishing off the water lodge, sampan rowing, volleyball, soccer, kite flying
– Indoor activities like: TV, karaoke, mahjong, carrom, and board/card games.
Come and join us for a memorable Indonesian kelong resort.

Limit to 30 pax only.

Strictly for SilverHairsClub members only. 

EOs – Boon Liang, Janet Chan n Yew Kwong

As confirmation for your registration, please transfer S$180 to Janet’s POSB Savings A/c :
058-63683-5 to be hundred per cent sure the whole WaterLodge Resort are exclusive to our enjoyment.

Karaoke – The Waterlodge has a basic karaoke system with limited selections of songs. They have advice us to bring along our own disc.

More details will be available soon…
  
We are going –

  1. Boon Liang   (Paid)
  2. Janet Chan   (Paid)
  3. Yew Kwong  (Paid)
  4. Grace Kok    (paid)
  5. Ann To          (paid)
  6. Peng Peng    (paid)
  7. Alicia Soh     (paid)
  8. Mike Tan       (paid)
  9. Ivan Lim       (paid)
  10. Veronique     (paid)
  11. Grace Kang   (paid)
  12. Bessie Lam   (paid)
  13. Dennis Wee  (paid)
  14. Ang Kim Han (paid)
  15. Cat Yeo         (paid)
  16. Sockie           (paid)
  17. Dan Huang    (paid)
  18. Joy Chuang   (paid)
  19. Agnes Seow  (paid)
  20. Lawrence Lee  (paid)
  21. Jessie Lee      (paid) 
  22. Marg Tian       (paid)
  23. Shirleen Kao  (paid)
  24. Lydia Chin      (paid)
  25. Sekaran Sandirasekaran (paid)
  26. Gengha Dhevi (paid)
  27. Daisy Yeo       (paid)
  28. Susan Chang   (paid)
  29. Grace Tay       (paid)

emoticon Thank you all for the prompt payments.

Click here and here for photos

Travel, London on Zuji offers or better ?

Hi all , those who are keen on travel to London or Europe, 

Just received an offer from Zuji that looks irresistable and with the pound down almost on its knees, it really

seems
the time to go.  So am starting this thread to  invite others
to share their experiences, tips , must see , must do things in and
around London, so that all who are keen can benefit. 

Total package price for fares, hotels for two persons (includes all taxes and fees)
SGD 3047.53

Avg. price per person from
SGD 1523.76

 On Etihad Airways with stopover at Dubai, 

Stay at the Cumberland located at the end of Oxford Street.  

Prices are cheaper for other hotels as follows:-

Avg. price per person from
SGD 1209.86

Appreiciate all comments, tips, views and info. 

For more info on Zuji,  etc,  email me at bswi@yahoo. com  or check

http://www.zuji.com.sg/site/travel_deals/europe/western_europe/united_kingdom/england/london/hotels_packages.html?skin=ensg.zuji.com.sg

Cheers 

 

 

Happenings in Perth

Hi SHCians

Thought I will post some happenings that that you can join in when you are here in Perth. These include:

Mar – fishing again at Cervantes, maybe with Mary joining in. Buying of lobsters if still in season.
Ongoing fishing at various places and golfing.
Self-drives.
Aug/Sep – My Self-drive across Nullabor Plain to Adelaide, Great Ocean Rd to Geelong, Victoria, etc and back to Perth.

There are 4 of us here – self, Mary, Linda and Hou Chong. So you can join up and also meet some of our friends here. Quite a number came from S’pore, Malaysia etc. So far, Mary and I are into fishing and I have  yet to do other things eg golfing, visiting markets etc with Mary and the rest.

I’m very certain the Apr group led by Terence and Mary will have lots to do and see here.

Joan

2 Days & 2 Nights Karimun Island

Batam-sized Karimun Island is 1 hour 45/50minutes by ferry south-west of Singapore.

March 26 Thursday

  • 1.30pm  Depart Harbourfront
  • 2.15/20pm (Indon time)  Arrive Tanjung Balai (Two main-street town)
  • 2.30pm   Check-in  Hotel Maxi or Hotel Palapa
  • 3.00pm   Visit The Vila (brothels)-15mins duration for Look-see with courteousy
  • 4.00-5.30pm  Leisurely walk(approximate distance from CK Tang to Centrepoint) from seafront through 1st main-street to hotel
  • 5.30-6.30pm    rest period
  • 6.30-8.00pm    Seafood dinner
  • 8.00pm   Onwards – Karaoke in hotel lounge(with or without hostesses, tips payable 10,000 rupiah-$1.35, Minimum per hostess)

                                                  PLEASE DO NOT VENTURE FROM HOTEL’S FRONTSTEPS

March 27 Friday

  • 6.30-9.00am(Indon time)   Breakfast in hotel (FOC)
  • 9.30-12noon  Visit Gunung Karimun waterfall (halfway up 300metre high mountain)
  • 12.30-1.30pm   Nasi padang lunch
  • 1.30-4.00pm     leisurely walk(approximate distance from CK Tang to Centrepoint) through 2nd main-street(parallel with 1st street) to seafront
  • 4.00-5.30pm     rest period(optional High-tea) at Hotel Holiday Karimun
  • 5.30-7.00pm     open-air seafront seafood-dinner.  After dinner is OPTIONAL to walk back or motor-cycle pillion-ride (cost-5,000rupiah) to hotel
  • 8.00pm  Onwards – Karaoke in hotel lounge or watch TV in rooms

                                                  PLEASE DO NOT VENTURE FROM HOTEL’S FRONTSTEPS

March 28 Saturday

  • 6.30-9.00am    Breakfast in hotel (FOC), Optional choice of 4 kopitiams of not more than 10 customers’-capacity within 20metres walking distance of hotel
  • 9.00-11.30am    Free & Easy/Shopping plus Rest period
  • 11.30am            Check out from Hotel
  • 11.30-1.30pm     Nasi padang lunch OR a-la-carte lunch at Hotel Holiday Karimun
  • 2.00pm (Indon time)    Depart Tanjung Balai
  1. Please credit Twenty Dollars to POSB Savings a/c-510-03720-0 (being hotel deposit Deluxe room, with longbath & mini-bar, at not more than 250,000rupiah
  2. MAXIMUM PAX of Twenty-one (including myself, Abel Tan) on a first-come-first-serve basis.
  3. CLOSING DATE – 9th March Monday.
  4. An expense of $120, varying exchange-rate of between equivalent of 720,000-760,000 per One Hundred dollars is sufficient but EXCLUDES two-way ferry fare of $55 (inclusive of Singapore’s seaport tax but excluding Indonesian 25,000rupiah, payable upon departure from Tanjung Balai).
  5. 100,000 rupiah approximates between $13.20 to $13.90 on prevailing day’s exchange rate 

G O N G     X I     F A     CAI

Abel Tan

Anyone interested to go on a photagraphic trip to Indonesia in Feb 09?

My photography instructor is organsiing a photograpy trip to Indonesia from 14th to 24 Feb. Places covered are Bandung, Borodudur,Mt Bruno and Bali and many stops in between. There are currently 8 of us with air tickets all booked with Jetstar. The land tour is about S$1000 (+/-) depending on the actual no. of pax. This is a special itinerary arranged for tour and photo taking so there will be limited shopping involved..we will be armed with cameras, SD and CF cards but  not credit cards emoticon

Those who are keen to join us pls e-mail me at sockie_sg@hotmail.com for more details.

Sockie

26 Feb – Yunnan Health Rejuvenation, by Feztus

Hi Folks! Feztus is organising a trip to Yunnan on 26 Feb. Please register your interest with him directly.

South West China, Yunnan 10 days Health Rejuvenation Trip
Registration/Deposit of $110 (non-refundable if self initiated cancellation) must be paid by 20 January 2009 or before registration close, whichever comes first. Maximum 20 Persons.  Overland Cost: $500($110 registration included), personal expenses, opted out expenses and shopping not included. Kunming return airfare (Estimate $550) is also not included, depending on which airline and fuel tax.  Those who will be getting your own mileage ticket, please arrange to arrive earlier.

Itinery:  

Program
Day 1 Thurs 26 Feb
Depart Singapore at 8am. Arrive Kunming at 12pm and transfer into Sea Gulls hotel. Walk around Green Lake and watch the Siberian Sea Gulls flying around the lake. (They fly here every year in December and back to Siberia in March). Dinner at “Cross The Bridge Noodle” Restaurant. After dinner free and easy.

Day 2 Fri 27 Feb
Breakfast at hotel. Check out of hotel and proceed to Dali, transfer to 5 hours coach bus to go to Dali. Lunch on the road. Arrive Dali and transfer to ethnic Bai Guesthouse inside the old city. Walk around the Dali Old City, “The Great Walls of Yunnan”, eat and shop around “Foreigner’s Street”. Visit 2 old churches in Dali old city. The catholic church is built in the shape like an Ark, Noah’s Ark! Dinner at local ethnic Bai restaurant.

Day 3 Sat 28 Feb
Breakfast at local café. Last minute shopping at old city. After lunch, transfer to coach to go to Lijiang, 3 hours journey. Check into guesthouse and visit Lijiang Original Ancient Town. For dinner, eat Salmon grown in Lijiang and many other exotic herbal local dishes. After dinner continue to tour Lijiang Old City. You can shop for many herbal products here. Home of the ethnic Naxi folks.

Day 4 Sun 1 Mar
Breakfast at local cafe, roam around Lijiang old city and then go for Hot Spring Spa. It is more natural and has a bit of the sulphuric content. Lunch here. Those who don’t want to go for the spa can opt for going to Jade Snow Mountain a whole day trip as your own expense, rejoining group for dinner. Night free and easy.

Day 5 Mon 2 Mar
After local breakfast, check out of hotel and fly back to Kunming. Transfer to hotel. Walk around Flower Bird Street
Lunch at Chairman Mao Restaurant. Free and easy. Steamboat dinner.

Day 6 – 8, 3 to 5 Mar Tue to Thurs
Local noodle breakfast, check out and transfer to Olive Farm 3 nights Home Stay. Managed by 2 Singaporean couples who will be hosting and cooking for us. We have a Singapore certified nutritionist coming for the whole 3 days of our health rejuvenation program here. Great place for relaxation, reflection and rejuvenation! Program includes harvesting and eating fresh and nutritional vegetables grown at the farm with no pesticides, no chemicals, all natural vegetables, honey and fruits. There will be 3 short talks over the 3 mornings on Anti Aging Process With Healthy Lifestyle. Anyone who want to have half an hour of private consultation (chargeable) with him for personal dietary program therapy; Iridology can be arrange anytime during these 3 days stay with nutritionist.
On the final night we can have BBQ session on the open mountain, cold weather, gazing the millions of stars of the clear sky! We will organize some farming activities on the 10,000 olive trees farm during the 3 days stay!
The types of no pesticide vegetables grown and available on the farm are spinach, beet, radish, chards, beans, squashes, egg plant, basil, aragula, zucchini, chilies, herbs, cabbage, endives, lettuce of many varieties, cucumber, corn, broccoli, tomatoes, asparagus.

Day 9 Fri 6 Mar
After breakfast, return to Kunming city hotel. Check out Singapore’s very own “BreadTalk” in Kunming. Eat lunch at “Porridge Queen” restaurant. Free and easy. Dinner.

Day 10 Sat 7 Mar
Breakfast at nearby café. Free and easy, after lunch check out and flight return to Singapore

A likely trip to Perth in Mar/Apr 2009

The fishing adventure on a kelong seemed to have been invaded by a likely trip to Perth.  So, let’s start a new Post here.

Joan, Mary, Hou Chong, assuming we have a group of say 7 – 14 pax coming to Perth, and of course, besides meeting you and catching fishes and abalones, we also like to travel south, along the coast and then back to South Perth.  Assuming we come to Perth in Mar or Apr this year.

Assuming we are all blur kings, what would be reasonable form of accommodation and transportation to move around Perth and the southern coastal towns.  If my memories are right, I once took a 7-seater, so an ideal target would be 7 – 14 pax.  I have a preference for a large single house.

Todate date, Jetstar airways are around $420, all tax inclusive.

What do you think are the possibilities of large accommodation, with flexibility to contain 7 – 14 people, with cooking facilities, laundry facilities, a garage, jogging track, a romantic facing of Perth city or a quiet feeling of the ideal retirement, facing a part of the swan river.

Guys, gals, keep the chat on the Perth trip here.  And, if you join the trip, you will be very loved if you can take some hard work like can you drive a 7 seater, be left side navigator, cook spagetthi or hae mee,  prepare eggs, bacon and toast for breakfast, do shopping eg buy orange juice in a supermarket,  go buy the morning newspapers, or clean the car, walk the dog, think of coming to Perth.

Or if you are thinking of 3 month short term retirement living in Perth, consider joining this likely trip and start putting  more money in the kitty box.  I hope we can make this an annual adventure, and meet up with our friends from Singapore.

Terence Seah

Indications (only) of interest to come for this trip:

  1. Terence Seah – (wk of 5 Apr), and lead driver.
  2. Lily Ho – can only give instructions, turn left and turn right.
  3. James Tan – (Week of 15 Mar). Main driver for second car.  Driven in US thousands of miles from California and everywhere.  Hopeless navigator.  Recent cataract.  Can cook fried rice/fried noodles, Terayaki chicken and bee.  Useless when it comes to fishing.  So must go supermarket.
  4. Norhayati  – can only cook maggie mee.  I think can wash car too.
  5. Patrick Lee – He needs a GPS.  Guess can co-drive. (week 15 Mar), can be lead driver.
  6. Sasan Tan – Cannot do any work, only dancing.
  7. Gwyneth Lee – ooh, can cook chicken rice.  yummy.  OK, we get some large Australian chicken.
  8. Veronique Lee – only fish, cannot do work.  Maybe be maid of the house.
  9. Ronald Wie – Jie trusts Ronald, he can drive left or right side.  So, can drive.  Cannot cook. Prefers to go Perth on another date.

  10. Nancy Major Tan – Can drive, but not navigate.  Careful she said short journey only.  Sounds like a great own style spagetti cook,  simple chinese dishes eg curry chicken or nasi lemak ok.

  11. Oi Cheng – hopeless driver or navigator.  But, at least can cook nice dishes.
  12. Karen Thio – cannot do anything.  Just want to be with fun ppl.  When did we start using short forms like ppl?
  13. Grace Wong – ooh, sure can cook, can wash, but I suspect we should share the kitchen washing.
  14. Charles Chua – a driver alright.  Prefers to leave the maggie mee cookers.
  15. Raymond Low – another co-driver.  A golf kaki too.  Any golf kakis enthusiast?
  16. Philip Wee – hoping to join us if the dates are right.  Hope he can do something.
  17. Priscillia Wee –  Hope she can do something too. last tri[ 1983.
  18. Catherine Ho – if holidays coincide.
  19. Annie Loh – if timing is right, and there are ants and toilets.
  20. Lawrence Lee – (wk of 15 Mar), can drive and cook and navigate.
  21. Lawrence Lee’s wife – (wk of 15 Mar).
  22. Bira Lupolo – chief eater.
  23. Ann Lim – can be the breakfast preparer and waitress.  Almost morning call alarm.
  24. Anna Set – can consider.
  25. Mary Chan – (wk of 15 Mar). needs school holidays. 
  26. Chengpun – can drive, (week of 12 April).
  27. Lisa Ong – loves to join Apr group
  28. Lisa Ong’s husband, not sure can do what?
  29. Kristin Leong – (wk of 29 Mar or 5 Apr).  Not sure can do what.
  30. Venika Leong – (Anytime), so nice to volunteer as chicken helper.  No body wants this job.
  31. Helen Wong – (Week of 29 Mar or 5 Apr), did say what she can do? 
  32. Neo Seok Cheng – (any week except 7 – 15 of mth), can do breakfast.
  33. Gwyneth Lee – (all dates ok), dont know can do what tasks).
  34. Paul Kong – can drive, dont know what dates
  35. Paul Kong"s wife – can shop., dont know what dates
  36. Ivy Low – (Week of 5 April), can clean chicken.
  37. Mega Abdullah – (week 5 April), can drive, prefers 10 days.
  38. Lydia Chin – (dates not decided).

Mary (Perth) can join the April group, she can drive and cook.  Oops, she volunteers to do washing.  Aiyah, our holidays and you do the washing.  We shall pick the youngest one in our group to do the washing.

Joan (Perth) can join the March group.  Can provide 2 couples B&B facilities.

For the love of fishing at a kelong

Some of us like fishing from the Bedok jetty.  Others like pond fishing.  Brave ones go out and catch the big marlins.  Not so brave ones put their feet into a tub and enjoy rainbow fishes ravishing at their old skin.

We had a kelong outing, a few years ago.  SB Khoo caught a plate-size grouper.  Cannot remember, but RonaldLai caught a really tiny one.  Others just love the mahjong table.  I enjoy sleeping at the edge of the kelong, counting the stars after a couple of beers.

We are not going kelong fishing in this post.  But, if you have gone fishing in the last 12 months, share with us your experience, where you went to, what you got, what you ate, and how much did you spend.

Maybe, something might surface from your experience.  You never know.  Dont be shy.

Terence Seah

3D/2N – Weekend Trip to Fraser’s Hill Resort

Hi There    emoticon 

A bunch of us SHCians are going to Fraser’s Hill for a Free & Easy weekend.  At first, we intend to go in a convoy of cars but decided it would be tiring to drive and more fun to go in a chartered coach for bonding and relaxation.  We have a capacity for 9 more pax to join us for this 3 days 2 nights trip.  Here’s the planned agenda :

  • Date of departure :  Friday, 6 February 2009

  • Date of return :  Sunday, 8 February 2009
  • Mode of transport :  26-Seater Air-Con Coach
  • Accommodation :  Richmond Bungalow & Singapore Guest House

  • Cost :  S$135 per person ( triple sharing )

    • Final details will be disseminated via private emails to confirmed participants.

    STRICTLY FOR SHC MEMBERS ONLY !

    If you are interested, please register and pay by ATM transfer to POSB A/c # 146005136  and notify by posting your payment ref. here.  Dolly, Yew Kwong and Oi Cheng will be in charge of the accounts for this trip.

    THIS IS A FIRST PAY FIRST CONFIRMED BASIS and registration will be closed as soon as we hit the required number.  So, do hurry if you want to secure a seat.

    Those confirmed going :

    1. Lily Ho – paid
    2. Terence Seah – paid
    3. Dolly Lim – paid
    4. Loh Yew Kwong – paid
    5. Joy Chuang – paid
    6. Dan Huang – paid
    7. Juliet Ong – paid
    8. Aaron How – paid
    9. Oi Cheng – paid
    10. C.J. – paid
    11. Karen Thio – paid
    12. Eyvonne Chew – paid
    13. Lin Chuah – paid
    14. Shirleen Kao – paid
    15. Susan Tan – paid
    16. Chan Kwong Wah – paid
    17. Ann Chee – paid
    18. Sock Cheng – paid
    19. Norlindah – paid
    20. Lillian Teo – paid
    21. Jane Tan – paid
    22. Lydia Lai – paid
    23. Sally Kang – paid
    24. Gywneth Lee – paid

    REGISTRATION  CLOSED  LIAO  – THANK YOU.!

    Click here to view photos

Going to Batam 7/8 Dec 2008

I am thinking of going to Batam on a 2D/1N holiday. Will only stay within the hotel compound. Just to breathe some fresh, maybe be naughty a bit and enjoy some beers or whiskies. Do nothing. Start early Sunday and return Monday late afternoon.

Anyone interested or any suggestions for hotels or bookings? I am 99% sure of going.

Terence Seah

Travel Insurance anyone knows of any better offer?

Hi all,

Since it is the start of the season for travel it is also good to ensure you are adequately covered for your overseas travel in case of any emergencies, flight delays or lost luggage, etc.

I just got a call from Citibank this morning for an offer of a year’s travel coverage worldwide including Malaysia for only $137 ( from ACE insurance it is supposedly $150).  Since it is a year’s coverage you are free from having to fill up your travel details everytime you travel out.  The coverage also includes lost items due to theft , lost luggage , hijacking, medical and personal liability coverage, etc.

So I guess with this settle, I can travel at least with some comfort in mind.  Anyone knows of any better offers? Terence , can you share with us your coverage plan and details and the repayment of your laptop due to theft that happen last year?

By the way, ACE insurance also covers personal protection for sporting, accidental injuries or illness and hospitalisation coverage while you are in Singapore or overseas for a monthly premium of about $25.  With me roller blading, cyclng , and travelling most of the time I guess it is better to be protected. 

Cheers 

Anyone for breeze walk/jogging by Canning River (Shelley)

Hello,

My name is Linda and I am new to SilverHairs Club.   I have just moved to Shelley (Perth) from Singapore 3 months ago.   I am 45 years old and would like to make friends with similar interests to share past time together eg. breeze walking, jogging, trying out new cooking recipes, etc.   Anyone interested, please do write to me at linda_loh638@yahoo.com.sg

Thank you.  Cheers,

Linda

Yunnan Health Rejuvenation Dec 18, 2008

Hi everyone –

Feztus is organizing a trip to Yunnan, departure date 18 Dec, for 10 days.

Below is the itinerary. It can be customized or fine-tuned further.

Right now, I already have 4 “very keen to go” (including me). Any one else interested?

The overland package cost is $500. Airfare NOT included. It is approximately $600 includes taxes and surcharge, depending which airlines.

Feztus need a “critical number” of minimum 10.  The more the merrier. Please register your interest here.

Proposed Yunnan 10 days Health Rejuvenation Trip

Itinerary

Program

Day 1

 Arrive Kunming and check into hotel. Walk to Green Lake to see Siberian Seagulls. They flies to Yunnan every year in December and stay around the lake till March. After that for dinner walk to “Cross The Bridge Noodle” Restaurant. After dinner enjoy the cool night strolling or drinking tea by the roadside.
Day 2 – 4 After local breakfast and coffee transfer to Olive Farm 2 nights Home Stay. Managed by 2 Singaporean couples who will be hosting and cooking for us. Great place for relaxation and reflection! “Rejuvenation Program includes harvesting and eating fresh and nutritional vegetables grown at the farm with no preservatives, no chemicals, all natural vegetables and fruits. On the final night we can have BBQ session on the open mountain, cold weather, gazing the millions of stars of the clear sky! We can also organize some farming activities on the 10,000 olive trees farm!
The types of vegetables grown and available on the farm are spinach, beet, radish, chards, beans, squashes, egg plant, basil, aragula, zucchini, chillies, herbs, cabbage, endives, lettuce of many varieties, cucumber, corn, broccoli, tomatoes, asparagus, etc. all of these are available from march to sept but from Oct to Feb will have lesser leafy veggies, but squashes, leeks, broccoli etc are available. You can choose how you want it to be cooked or even raw! We also have honey on our farm and other seasonal fruits.
Day 5 After breakfast, return to Kunming from farm. Check into Service Apartment/Hotel. Lunch at Mao Ze Dong Restaurant. It has the dishes of Mao’s Butler. Mostly spicy dishes, good for cold weather. After lunch to the Hot Spring Spa. Spa has different type of pools to soak, rose petals, coffee, Guizhou Muotai Wine, etc., water temperature from 36 to 43 Deg C. There is even a volcanic stone floor bed for lying down. Back after dinner. Buffet dinner.
Day 6 After breakfast, check out and proceed to Dali/Lijiang/Shangrila.
To Dali, transfer to 5 hours coach bus to go to Dali, stay at Fu Chun He Bai Guesthouse. Walk around the Dali Old City, “The Great Walls of Yunnan”, eat and shop around “Foreigner’s Street”. Visit 2 old churches in Dali old city. The catholic church is built in the shape like an Ark, Noah’s Ark!
Day 7 After breakfast, go to Lijiang by bus, 3 hours journey. Check into guesthouse and visit Lijiang Original Ancient Town. For lunch, eat Salmon grown in Lijiang and many other exotic herbal local dishes. Stay either in Lijiang hotspring or regular guesthouse in old city. After lunch visit and tour Lijiang Old City. You can shop for San Qi flowers and roots, other herbs here.
There is this Jade Snow mountain, but not good to go. It is too cold, too high and oxygen level too low for some of you to go. Some people heart will palpitate in reaction.
Day 8 After breakfast, roam around Lijiang old city. After lunch, can check out the Hot Spring Spa here. It is more natural and has a bit of the sulphuric content. If not fly back to Kunming. Check into hotel.
Day 9 After breakfast, walk around city. Check out Singapore’s very own “BreadTalk” and Haagen Daz in Kunming. Eat lunch at “Porridge Queen” restaurant, visit the Flower & Bird Street and shopping area and dinner will be at the local steam boat restaurant.
Day 10 Morning last minute shopping after breakfast. After lunch, check out and take flight back to Singapore. All these at the cost of only $500!

Looking for traveling companions….

Hi,

I’m Mike Ong and I’m in my late 50s’. I’m looking for male traveling companions to see the world e.g. Central America, Mexico, Central Asia. Africa, Greenland etc.  Mode of travel can either be ‘free & easy’ or based on ‘package tours’. Having just retired from my own company, I can go anywhere, anytime and for any duration.

My email address is: butauweng@yahoo.com.sg

Please contact me if you are keen. I will gladly meet up for any further discussion.

With warmest regards

Single travellers

Hi SHC members

I am interested in joining travel packages which cater for single travellers. As air and hotel packages cater to twin sharing, I’m wondering whether anyone is keen in setting up a sort of travel club to match people (same sex to share accomodation). This will help to cut down travelling costs.

I don’t mind helping to coordinate in this travel club, if someone is keen to work with me.

Joan

A day Trip to Penggerang/Johore Bahru on Saturday 11th October 2008

Dear folks, a short trip this time and another opportunity to have fun and fellowship together!emoticon

Scheduleemoticon

6.30am   Meeting point to decide later. Proceed to Causeway. make sure your passport is with you and  is    6 months before expiry.

8.00am   Breakfast at Sentosa Johore Bahru

10.00am  Arrive at Fruits Plantation (200 types of fruits). Proceed to Lucky Mango Farm which produces sweet mangoes (1 kg at RM$5/- very cheap!)

12.00pm  Seafood lunch at Kim Hoe Seafood Garden. After lunch we proceed to a special chinese biscuit shop.

1.40pm   Visit Ostrich Farm. Admission fee RM$6/- per personemoticon

4.oopm   Proceed to Kota Tinggi to ‘Sotong Man’ to buy dried seafood. Leave Kota Tinggi for Johore Bahru to JUSCO for shopping.

6.30pm   Dinner at Apollo Restaurant in Johore Bahru.

7.30pm   Depart for Singapore!emoticon

Cost (All inclusive): S$45.00 only!

Closing date: October 4, 2008.

We are running short of time! Those keen to join please pay to Joy’s POSB Saving Account. 159-131645

Danz n Joyzemoticon

Holiday, Anyone? Hainan?

Hi, SHCians

Anyone interested to go for a short holiday with Eyvonne and me which we planned on Oct 31 to Nov 5’08.  We planned to go Hainan/Sanya lor.. But as I am going thru directly with the land operator in Hainan, the whole land tour will only be conducted in Chinese.  The land tour cost right now I have is RMB400 (subject to change) for a 4D/3N iternary, 4-S accomodation with 6 meals and 3 breakfast.  As Oct/Nov, the flight timetable had been changed to morning flight instead of normal 4.45pm return to SG hence, I had added 1 additional free day in Haikou itself so we can roam freely at our own leisure.  As dates planned are considered off-peak, the air ticket cost is ard $300 inclusive of taxes but of cos, must book early to enjoy this lor emoticon.  As for tips for local guide and coach driver, I m proposing S$2/day/pax emoticon.  Of cos, those that prefer to leave as planned, are also welcome to do so lor..

Those interested to join me can email me at dlgummy@hotmail.com for the proposed itinerary.

Kelong @ Bintan Resort 8/9 November, 2008

Tentative Schedule

Day 1 (08 Nov 08}emoticon

Meet at Tanah Merah Ferry Terminal at 8.00am

Depart at 9.15am (1 hr 45 mins journey)

Shopping trip/Lunch

Check-in Kelong chalet units (fan room – twin sharing)

Activities:emoticon

Karoeke/Pools game/Board games/Bingo/Mahjong/Beach activities

Optional; Island hopping ($20)/Spa(At a fee)/Fishing at pond $30 per day/Free outside the pond (bring your own rod and lines)/Day fishing at sea (4 hours at $80-$90 with 4-5 pax)

Day 2 (09 Nov 08)

Morning – free & easy/Lunch

12.00 noon – Check out kelong Chalet

Depart at Jetty : 2.20pm

Reach Singapore 4.30pmemoticon

The free & easy package (2d1n) include ferry and meals are:

S$155 per adult

* 2-way land transfer

* 1 night accomodaton (twin sharing)

* 2-way ferry transfer including taxes (S$38+$12 PDF, Fuel Surcharge + $5 Indonesia departure tax)

* Breakfast/1 seafood lunch/1 seafood dinner

Insurance coverage on your own.

Chalet: Ocean Bay Resortemoticon

Dates : 8 – 9 November 2008 (Saturday & Sunday) 

Closing Date: October 1, 2008

Danz n Joyzemoticon

Who’s coming

  1. Dan Huang
  2. Joy Zhuang
  3. Norhayati
  4. Gwyneth Lee
  5. Christina WH Chan
  6. Seok cheng 

2D1N DESARU GOLDEN BEACH RESORT ON NOV. 8/9, 2008

Itinerary

November 8 (Saturday)
9.00am Pick-up point upon request
10.00am  Customs Clearance
10.00am Proceed to Desaru Golden Beach Resort
11.30am Arrived Desaru Golden Beach Resort
11.45am Luggage keep in Luggage Room
12.00pm Enjoy Sea Activities & Free and Easy
2.00pm Lunch at Restaurant (Own Expenses)
3.00pm Resort Check in – Twin a Room (Provided)

7.00pm

Nov 9, (Sunday)

  

Dinner at Restaurant (Own Expenses)
8.00am  Breakfast at Banquet (Provided)
9.30am  Resort Check out
10.00am Proceed to Desaru Fruit Farm
10.30am Visit Desaru Fruit Farm – Entrance Fee (Provided)
12.15pm Lobster Seafood Lunch at Restaurant (Provided)
1.30pm  Visit Herbal Farm
2.45pm Purchase Local Biscuit
3.15pm  Visit Ostrich Farm – Entrance Fee (Provided)
4.30pm Proceed to Kota Tinggi Fireflies Cruise
6.00pm Dinner at Kota Tinggi Restaurant (Provided)
7.30pm Fireflies Cruise
8.45pm Return to Singapore (Via Woodland Causeway)
10.45pm Arrived Singapore Home
???????????(????????)
TOUR FARES: ?? : (Min 40 Paxs)
S$158/Adult nett per person ????????? Dear SHCians, another opportunity to enjoy a short holiday! I am trying to keep it as cheap as possible. If we can get 40 pax, the fee remained as stated with insurance coverage. If only 26 pax the fee will be at $180.00 also with personal insurance coverage. Danz n Joyz 

Who’s coming!

  1. Danz Huang
  2. Joy Zhuang
  3. Jane Wong
  4. Eyonne Chew
  5. Ros Chan
  6. June Lim
  7. Norhayati
  8. Ronald Koh

 

  

Tibet, Nepal anybody?

Hi folks at SHC.

I wrote a new post yesterday with the above headline but dunno how come it didn’t appear. I had to borrow Charles’ Laos thread to pose the question. Mr Terence Seah has advised me to try again. So here goes:

Wow! Rene Leong has gone to Nepal and planning to go to Tibet next. Lum Fook is planning to go to Nepal next year. Wee Jee is interested to go to these two places as well. It’s so exciting. Charles, Rene, why not plan to go to these places. I bet there’ll be more SHC members who are willing to come along. Right folks?

But a leisurely package lah. I’ve never done any trekking before. The only trekking I’ve done is up to Bukit Timah Hill and through MacRitchie Reservoir. emoticon

With warmest regards

Norhayati

Tour from Bangkok to Laos, Oct11th-20th.

Hi again,

Since our Malaysian East Coast trip was postponed to next year, we have found another trip up north.

Briefly, we will fly to Bkk on Oct 11 or earlier and start the tour on Oct 12th. There is a cruise upriver, followed by a van ride to Wangnam Keao, the ‘Switzerland of Thailand’. Next day we will go up to Korat and Khonkaen and really ‘makan angin’, at the ‘7th level of pure Ozone’. Day 4 will bring us up to Nongkhai, near the border between Laos and Thailand. We will cross over to Laos the next day and stay in Vientiane, Laos.

After that we will return to Thailand but will take a different route down south, but slightly to the west, again visiting towns away from the usual tourist joints, arriving in Bkk on Oct 19th. We fly back to Sgp on the next day

We aim to travel no more than 160kms per day so that we will have ample time to ‘absorb’ the ambience. As usual we intend to visit ‘non-touristy’ places, on a casual drive and eat whatever food the journey brings. The distance fom Bkk to Vientiane is say, less than 1000+kms, so you can estimate how leisurely it can be. FYI that’s about the distance from Sgp to Penang, but without the N-S highway convenience.

We are looking for another 4 to 6 persons, easy-going, with a spirit of adventure and cautious curiosity, preferably those who can sleep in the same room, ie couples or same-sex types. The cost will be the return airfare Sgp-Bkk-Sgp, plus tour at THB25000 to THB28000 plus meals and spending money plus tips for the tour guides. The tour fare is  inclusive of ABF (breakfast) in Thailand, lunch and dinner in Laos only, plus van, fuel and toll charges, accident insurance, an English speaking guide, and entrance fees in Laos. BTW THB 25k-28k approximates S$1000-1120. So perhaps S$1500 plus return fare is the ball-park figure.

Since there is not much time, we will appreciate a firm, commited response so we can tidy up the details with the tour coy. Payment will be required soon for the airtickets and a deposit. Both these items are non-refundable. I am also looking for a person who can help with the booking of the airtickets

All Singaporeans do not need a visa for either Thailand or Laos, but a Singapore passport with more than 6 mos expiry is standard.

I am sorry if this is a rush job but it is the dry season in Oct plus we are trying for that week as there will be a festival in Nong Khai then (Bang Fai Phaya Nark festival). I don’t know what the festival is but any festival is always a joyous and happy occasion.

Please register your interests or questions here first and sms or email me later.

Thanks and Cheers to all.