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6 year anniversary trip - Singapore, Malaysia, Hong Kong - CX F/J, AC J/Y, MH Y
I wanted to title this report "5 year anniversary trip - The Sequel" but it sounded corny. Anyhoo, moving along.
Its that time of the year again where I razzle and dazzle Mrs.I with another first class adventure for our anniversary trip. We loved our 2 days in Singapore so much last year that we decided to go back and spend more time just eating and eating some more plus have some beach time somewhere. Based on the points collected so far, the itinerary was kept simple and ended up as follows: AC Y YYZ-ORD (with a plot twist) CX F ORD-HKG CX J HKG-SIN Singapore 2 nights at the Four Points Sheraton MH Y SIN-KUL-LGK Kuala Lumpur 1 night at the Westin Langkawi 3 nights at The Andaman resort MH Y LGK-KUL-SIN Singapore 5 nights at the Sheraton Towers CX J SIN-HKG Hong Kong 2 nights at the Sheraton Kowloon CX F HKG-ORD AC Y ORD-YYZ Simple, right? Ok, intro done. Lets fly. https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1743/...2e3fb52e_z.jpg |
#perfectweather #upgraded
The trip started off with amazing weather and the luck just kept rolling on. Made it to Pearson with zero traffic.
https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1748/...14d2203b_c.jpg https://farm1.staticflickr.com/877/2...9e679bf7_c.jpg The check-in area had minimal activity going on with a painless self check-in and bag tag. On the other hand, the agent scanning the bags did have his hands full with all kinds of idiots not knowing how to tag their bags, not printing their tags or just standing in the wrong queue altogether and this delayed the entire line up of people just wanting to drop their bags off and go. Had to sympathize with him though as he was doing his best to help said idiots and when we got to the front, he joked with us that it was that kind of day. LOL. The line up at security was virtually non-existent and we got through US immigration in record time. Once through, we made our way to the PP lounge for a quick bite. https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1750/...58c71f59_c.jpg https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1735/...c0d91a3b_c.jpg A nice view this evening with EK242 being towed to the gate for the flight back to Dubai. https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1723/...2bb195c9_c.jpg We eventually made the long walk to gate F32 to board our flight to ORD. As we lined up for boarding, I got a call from my mother-in-law (who was in a very good mood) and she got us upgraded to J. We got our new passes from the gate agent and headed into the tube. https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1722/...89fdba63_c.jpg https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1739/...b0a0bdb9_c.jpg Very comfy for the 1.5 hour flight tonight. https://farm1.staticflickr.com/886/4...981679c2_c.jpg https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1739/...62a9f855_c.jpg https://farm1.staticflickr.com/886/2...bd2ff090_c.jpg The FA working J noticed my BP on the centre console and welcomed me Mr.I, welcome aboard, we have been expecting you Please let me know if you need anything. Also, you are most welcome to visit the flight deck. LOL, well dont mind if I do. The best part she didnt even bat an eyelash towards Mrs.I. We could not help giggling after the FA went back to the door. When there was a break in the line up, I took the opportunity to visit the flight deck and introduced myself to the captain and first officer. Pretty awesome to be sitting upfront. While I was up at the flight deck with the first officer, the captain came out to chat with Mrs.I and welcome her on board. She was delighted to get some attention. :) https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1734/...07808ca4_c.jpg Look straight out. https://farm1.staticflickr.com/894/4...952e5438_c.jpg Back at my seat looking out. https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1753/...5274ccb6_c.jpg Boarding, pushback, taxi and take off were all on time and smooth. https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1749/...1edac101_c.jpg Choice of drink tonight was a nameless sauvignon blanc and chocolate/protein bars for a snack. No menu. :) https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1734/...65f30389_c.jpg Landing at ORD was a standard affair. Collected our bags, made our way to the shuttle bus pick up point where we headed to the Four Points Sheraton. https://farm1.staticflickr.com/889/4...c9f7f5bd_c.jpg https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1725/...f55e10f3_c.jpg https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1744/...8b299965_c.jpg https://farm1.staticflickr.com/897/2...6d61e810_c.jpg Next up - CX F to HKG + The Wing First Class Lounge |
looking forward to the rest of this one
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#flightdelay #areyouflyingbusinessclass? #historyinthemaking
Woke up to an automated text message at 4am that the CX flight was delayed from 15:30 to 16:25 – yay, back to sleep. Woke up later in the morning and headed down to the hotel restaurant for breakfast.
American portions are awesome. Eggs benny for me and a Western omelette for her. https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1754/...f4c60bd3_c.jpg https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1722/...88cbb506_c.jpg We eventually left the hotel around 1.45pm and hopped on the shuttle back to the airport. The driver dropped us off first at Terminal 5. https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1748/...d4a402e8_c.jpg Mrs.I wanted the honour of checking us in today and I reminded her that we are checking in all the way to Singapore. As we walked in the First Class check-in line, a wandering CX agent approached us … Agent: “Flying Business Class?” Mrs.I: “No, First Class” Agent *big smile*: “Where to?” Mrs.I: “Hong Kong” Me: *internally facepalming* Agent *motioning us to the check-in desk*: “My colleague will help you.” Me *whispering in Mrs.I’s ear*: “…… you had one job ….” Mrs.I: “I know, sorry!” Mrs.I informed the check-in agent we were flying to Singapore and we were handed our boarding passes and lounge invites in no time. Asked if we would like an escort but turned it down. TSA passport/BP checks and security was quick except for the issue where my watch went missing even though it was in my bag. Went back to the security check point and found that the watch was sitting in a small accessories bowl. Was really pissed that someone removed it from my bag and didn’t say anything which led me to believe someone rifled through my belongings. https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1746/...40c0fee6_c.jpg https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1748/...ca21d757_c.jpg Since we had time to kill, we took a walk around the concourse towards M1 and then back to M15 to check out the plane. https://farm1.staticflickr.com/894/4...02eda72a_c.jpg https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1721/...2bb2181d_c.jpg As we go to M15, CX had just landed and was taxi-ing to the gate. Lovely Lufthy heading out. https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1750/...2a8371af_c.jpg With our wonderful bird pulling into her gate. https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1729/...dc02bd6b_c.jpg Headed back to the BA First Class lounge for a pick me up. We were welcomed in, provided the wifi password and informed that a boarding announcement would be made when it was time. Nothing has changed in the lounge except for the placement on the food station which was now in the middle versus the corner. https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1731/...5685f15b_c.jpg https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1744/...25d51e55_c.jpg https://farm1.staticflickr.com/877/4...37b1b97e_c.jpg https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1758/...af1e577c_c.jpg https://farm1.staticflickr.com/881/4...d97f3f93_c.jpg So many scribbles. https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1723/...c81f9c94_c.jpg A CX agent came around T-45 minutes to departure and quietly announced to individual CX passengers that boarding had started. We made our way back to the gate and found this line for F, J and other elites. I walked up front and asked an agent if this was the F line. She checked our boarding passes and cut us to the front. Woot. https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1760/...f5766abc_c.jpg https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1751/...91290ddd_c.jpg Boarded through 2L where we were escorted to our seats. https://farm1.staticflickr.com/882/4...144edf09_c.jpg On this flight, we would be taken care of by Yollie, Grace and Hiromi and I believe Yollie was the Chief Purser. We were welcomed on board and asked what we would like to drink – roll out the champers please. I sat with Mrs.I during boarding and the drinks were poured at 1A. https://farm1.staticflickr.com/898/4...4bac4643_c.jpg https://farm1.staticflickr.com/894/4...447896c9_c.jpg https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1741/...a718b7fd_c.jpg Let’s blast through the menu, shall we? https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1726/...87cb7aa9_c.jpg https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1749/...bb5149ed_c.jpg https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1742/...83c8329a_c.jpg https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1729/...eb4c9ec0_c.jpg With the ever unchanging drinks list. https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1743/...e3ab16da_c.jpg https://farm1.staticflickr.com/897/2...22d38c97_c.jpg Whoever wrote this description really kills me. Must have a serious nose and palate to smell/taste all that. https://farm1.staticflickr.com/877/2...c37d3e44_c.jpg https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1736/...39f70344_c.jpg https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1755/...55c633fa_c.jpg I was requested to move back to my seat for the safety demo and obliged. https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1732/...233d9e2c_c.jpg https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1733/...58ac2501_c.jpg https://farm1.staticflickr.com/878/2...5b7484c4_c.jpg Trusty GoPro filming the taxi and takeoff sequence. https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1748/...b8fa46f1_c.jpg https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1735/...e2711ed7_c.jpg https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1722/...7aac218b_c.jpg Buh bye Chi-town. https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1729/...71c1fb1f_c.jpg https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1745/...e099ba54_c.jpg https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1737/...85c48c5d_c.jpg https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1741/...56e43e53_c.jpg More champers and warm nuts was delivered after the seat belt sign went off. https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1739/...2521a6a0_c.jpg Hiromi let us know that service was dine on demand and we could request anything anytime. We opted to start right away and she took our orders. To start, the caviar as always because its caviar and the hand written notes. https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1727/...955ae122_c.jpg https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1760/...df6b9e4e_c.jpg https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1741/...ef18fe02_c.jpg Mrs.I went next with the international selection and started with the Lobster salad. The lobster meat was tender and delicious while the rest was garbage. https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1742/...97732a01_c.jpg Since I went with the Chinese option, Hiromi started me off with the cold plate. Excellent tangy flavour and a good hit of spice from the red chillies. https://farm1.staticflickr.com/894/4...4a5f7540_c.jpg While we waited for the next course, I took a moment to stretch and take a pic. https://farm1.staticflickr.com/893/4...4a7ae3f2_c.jpg The soup and main course were served together. Chinese main course was delicious. https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1723/...eb334c3a_c.jpg With Mrs.I choice of the sea bass being equally good. https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1743/...209117aa_c.jpg My soup had a weird after taste and I avoided it after a few sips. https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1739/...f14a4848_c.jpg Mrs/I's truffle potato leek soup was excellent and I greedily decided to have half. https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1740/...2f46e042_c.jpg We both skipped the cheese course and chose the same dessert – Blueberry bread and butter pudding. So ... damn ... good. https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1753/...6beaae42_c.jpg After lunch, we requested to have our beds made while we changed into PJs. I waited for Mrs.I to finish changing and in the mean time, I took a timelapse video of Hiromi changing the seat into a bed. We started to chat and she asked where I was from and I indicated Toronto. She was surprised and asked why we didnt choose the CX flight from TO to which I answered that there is no F service. I asked her how long her layover was and she indicated 3 days but the usual layover is 2 days for CX crew flying to ORD. https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1725/...119eabb8_c.jpg In a historical first, I slept for 8 hours straight and woke up 2 hours out of Hong Kong. https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1753/...059d92ef_c.jpg Yollie and Hiromi saw me come out of the washroom after freshening up and asked if I would like something to eat. Started off with a plate of fruit. As Yollie was serving me, she made small conversation and indicated that Hiromi told her that we were from Canada and it was interesting we were flying from ORD. Her next comment was priceless: "You must really love CX First Class service if you are willing to pay so much" LOL. https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1760/...f7fc4a29_c.jpg And finished with the stir fry beef which was juicy and tender. https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1739/...cd418434_c.jpg Thirty minutes before landing, the captain came on and advised us that we were in a 20 minute holding pattern and would come on again to let us know when we got clearance. Twenty minutes later, we were given the go ahead and began preparations for landing. https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1753/...32feeefd_c.jpg It was only then that I noticed no flowers. https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1742/...e9564e15_c.jpg We would have a 4 hour transit, so no rush. https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1751/...150521f1_c.jpg Safe touch down and 10 minutes of taxi brought up to gate 1. https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1737/...6b4dbfcb_c.jpg The crew thanked us for flying and we were first off the plane. https://farm1.staticflickr.com/885/4...514dd438_c.jpg https://farm1.staticflickr.com/885/2...a1676963_c.jpg Next part is up on the blog. |
The glorious travel kit.....
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Great start - looking forward to the rest!
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#wingingitatthelounge #gettingcozyinthecabana #redeyetosingapore
Followed the transit signs to security and we were spit out on the departure level in no time. Walked over to The Wing lounge and we were allowed access to the First Class section as we were within the 24 hour period coming off the plane. We were informed that the lounge would close at 12:30am.
https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1744/...2a2c2449_c.jpg https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1755/...c62ef3e0_c.jpg The Haven dining room. https://farm1.staticflickr.com/902/4...d46064b4_c.jpg Yes, the champagne bar will do nicely. https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1740/...cb4e6d17_c.jpg We sidetracked to the Cabana and had to wait for one to open up as they were all in use. We were given a buzzer and we then planted ourselves by the champagne bar since it was right there. https://farm1.staticflickr.com/898/2...75430872_c.jpg https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1735/...624d492a_c.jpg https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1751/...3cba44ea_c.jpg Looking down. https://farm1.staticflickr.com/881/2...a99f22d9_c.jpg https://farm1.staticflickr.com/889/4...15a24e18_c.jpg The buzzer went off around 11:30pm which gave us an hour to spend in the Cabana. Mrs.I couldn’t understand why we were waiting for the Cabana when a shower suite would be just as good. When she saw it, she agreed that it was worth the wait. https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1732/...eb222754_c.jpg https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1757/...53283637_c.jpg https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1737/...28005d63_c.jpg https://farm1.staticflickr.com/877/2...ab649feb_c.jpg After freshening up, we decided to move on to the Deck and see what it had to offer. Making our way out the same way we came in. https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1741/...be4a4df7_c.jpg Found out that our SIN flight would be at Gate 1 but it was later changed to Gate 4. https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1748/...c269a75e_c.jpg We made our way over to Gate 15 where the Deck was located. This is a business class lounge only like the Bridge. https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1744/...a026a632_c.jpg https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1758/...8e52636a_c.jpg Walking into the lounge right after the entrance desk. https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1741/...00d0d10c_c.jpg https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1748/...4aeee41c_c.jpg https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1746/...ee73a0b2_c.jpg There was an outside patio style area overlooking the concourse. https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1747/...5d16ea30_c.jpg https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1742/...fe44711e_c.jpg The flight to Zurich was delayed and had just begun boarding. The plane being flown for this flight was the Spirit of Hong Kong. https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1745/...dbf906da_c.jpg https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1748/...64068243_c.jpg https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1742/...ce03aa94_c.jpg The noodle bar was closed, so no wanton noodles for me. :( https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1725/...4068ef17_c.jpg At least the buffet spread was still there. https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1728/...1b6eddcd_c.jpg We eventually headed off to Gate 4 where our flight would be leaving from. I like how CX does a pre-boarding sequence and gets people to line up before boarding starts – very efficient and boarding ended up being complete in 20 minutes. https://farm1.staticflickr.com/874/4...0f91e03b_c.jpg Snaking economy line. https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1738/...fa12b4f8_c.jpg https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1747/...eee41d49_c.jpg Once boarding was green lit, we made our way down the worlds longest jet bridge. Our plane tonight to Singapore would be an A-Three-Fiddy. https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1746/...2e6215f7_c.jpg https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1729/...93ba5174_c.jpg https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1754/...4bf19245_c.jpg Comfy enough for a 3-ish hour hop. https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1728/...168cda25_c.jpg https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1751/...bd0c7f47_c.jpg https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1753/...c6cebc0a_c.jpg Pushback was 5 minutes early and everything else was smooth thereafter. https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1746/...7212d70b_c.jpg Bye Hong Kong, see you in 2-ish weeks. https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1735/...29c0f09a_c.jpg After 10 minutes, the seat belt sign went off and the cabin crew sprung into action for the red eye dinner service. https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1725/...335c86c8_c.jpg Blasting through the menu again. https://farm1.staticflickr.com/889/4...cf7a9619_c.jpg https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1727/...bd6bf0e0_c.jpg https://farm1.staticflickr.com/882/2...29622547_c.jpg https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1740/...d15987dd_c.jpg https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1723/...c6a1bed8_c.jpg https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1728/...55bbac09_c.jpg https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1736/...0522bff5_c.jpg Went with the beef brisket option and was tasty and everything served on a single tray. Everything was cleared away around 1.5 hours into the flight and I took the opportunity to get some shut eye. https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1742/...57d9d48f_c.jpg The captain came on the comm around 30 minutes to arrival and indicated that we were on time. https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1731/...fa178c4a_c.jpg Pulled up to our gate to see 2 other CX planes. CX now uses Terminal 4 and I was highly eager to get a whiff of that fresh carpet smell … amongst other things. https://farm1.staticflickr.com/877/4...284bf8cd_c.jpg https://farm1.staticflickr.com/898/2...f71393a1_c.jpg Mmmmm, new carpet smell. https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1750/...e21c1a57_c.jpg https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1752/...fef87cde_c.jpg https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1721/...4e3e177c_c.jpg https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1721/...c5c158a9_c.jpg Immigration was dead and we were let through quickly. Waited for our bags at belt 2. https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1753/...2b911056_c.jpg https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1743/...6435ee41_c.jpg https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1748/...2277dccf_c.jpg As it was 5am when we landed, we took our time getting to the hotel. Opened up our bags, changed into more comfortable clothes more suitable for hot weather and then made our way to the shuttle bus that connects T4 to T2. From there, we would jump on the MRT down to the Four Points Sheraton. https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1736/...0ea9451d_c.jpg God, I love the Singapore MRT. https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1739/...549a48ce_c.jpg Next part up on the blog. |
Nice TR! I don't understand why carpet (and fairly thick type) is used here at the terminal, it makes pushing carts and luggage on wheels exceedingly hard
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Great TR. Thanks for sharing with us ! looking forward to the Aman
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#jetlagisnotfun #gluttony
Getting to the hotel was a breeze. Hopped on the MRT to City Hall and then caught the #51 bus for a 10 minute ride that dropped us right opposite our destination. Bob’s your uncle as they say.
We walked in at 7am which is obviously way too early to check-in. The front desk rep checked us in and had a room ready for us. He informed us in a passive-aggressive douche bag tone i.e. "I’m doing you a favour” that since we were being provided a room well before the normal check-in time, he would give 125 points as the bonus and put the other 125 to two drinks that we could claim at the hotel bar. With my eyes internally rolling, I took the room keys, gave him my resting b***h face look and had him deliver our bags to the room. https://farm1.staticflickr.com/881/4...d101d8c0_c.jpg https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1738/...4fa6e81c_c.jpg https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1745/...3cc42052_c.jpg https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1752/...14bc35d1_c.jpg https://farm1.staticflickr.com/894/2...0a329bae_c.jpg https://farm1.staticflickr.com/886/4...12c713db_c.jpg We freshened up and went out in search of breakfast. Google Maps indicated that the Tiong Bahru food centre was a 10 minute walk away – sweet! https://farm1.staticflickr.com/886/4...df8c0977_c.jpg Here we are. https://farm1.staticflickr.com/886/4...2a52f03e_c.jpg https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1745/...9a7d158e_c.jpg First stop, a breakfast staple other than Kaya Toast ofcourse. https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1743/...ac25b81c_c.jpg Steamed rice cakes with a preserved vegetable topping and sambal on the side. The sambal really hit the spot. https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1726/...2afda1fd_c.jpg Mrs.I wanted more but I cautiously advised that we should try other things. After checking out other joints, we settled on some Lor Mee. The pig organ soup joint looked tempting but well … not our sort of thing. https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1742/...17e13891_c.jpg There was a 4 person line up but when my turn came up, I copied the locals and held up 3 fingers to signal that I wanted the $3 bowl. https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1758/...45ebd130_c.jpg Presentation is key … https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1748/...fb65667f_c.jpg But it’s all the same in the belly. https://farm1.staticflickr.com/890/2...620c8080_c.jpg The early morning heat eventually got to us and found an old favourite as a thirst quencher. https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1723/...1b4270b2_c.jpg Went down to the first floor that housed the wet market and checked out the local goods. https://farm1.staticflickr.com/894/4...ea3cedff_c.jpg Headed back to the hotel to figure out what we would do next but ended up crashing. We intended to wake up in a couple hours but sleep got the better of us and we woke up at 6pm. #fail We decided to head over to Chinatown for some grub and change out to local currency. It was a 20 minute walk since we did not have the EZ link pass and had to buy them anyways at the Chinatown station. Didn’t see any of the Friends cast in there. https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1726/...1ee47078_c.jpg https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1728/...5f82ac9a_c.jpg After changing money near the People’s Park food centre, we walked down into the Chinatown MRT station and bought the EZ links cards. With a tap of the credit card, we were back out in 5 minutes. https://farm1.staticflickr.com/902/4...c34b02ab_c.jpg Walked over to the Chinatown Food Complex to see what was appetizing. https://farm1.staticflickr.com/886/4...3f804b7b_c.jpg Apparently, ironmanjt opened up a stall. :D https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1729/...5f53c422_c.jpg The claypot rice stall was closed and nothing else was appetizing to Mrs.I, so we decided to head back to the People’s Park centre. We walked in to the Michelin 1 star joint, Hawker Chan, but there were all out of the good stuff. https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1734/...423a274d_c.jpg Since hawker centres are hotter inside compared to sitting outside, I decided to cool down in the best way I know. https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1731/...3b15d896_c.jpg And walked over to this roast meat stall for some deliciousness. https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1757/...657ee4c6_c.jpg https://farm1.staticflickr.com/878/4...bb486a15_c.jpg Roast pork. https://farm1.staticflickr.com/878/2...3c909b3b_c.jpg Roast chicken with a big broth. https://farm1.staticflickr.com/874/4...c85d80ed_c.jpg With our faces stuffed to the max, we headed over to Clarke Quay to check out the night life. Trying to be artsy on the MRT but total fail … https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1732/...f60c611e_c.jpg Definitely a bumping vibe at CQ. https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1753/...58cfdba8_c.jpg Mrs.I saw this place and demanded satisfaction. Didn’t take a pic of the goods but was damn freaking good. I’m a believer in Hokkaido natural ice cream. https://farm1.staticflickr.com/882/4...74582289_c.jpg We walked into the bowels of CQ to check out what was on offer. https://farm1.staticflickr.com/886/2...26b06564_c.jpg https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1743/...69bc5316_c.jpg Called it a night after a couple hours of just relaxing by the waterfront. Woke up early the next morning to head over to the Botanic Gardens. Hopped on the bus that would drop us directly opposite the Tanglin Gate entrance. A quick google check on food options revealed that the Adam Road food centre was on the opposite side of the gardens near the Bukit Timah gate. The leisure walk from one end to the other took us around 20-ish minutes. https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1722/...9339a4f9_c.jpg https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1746/...14251cc6_c.jpg https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1744/...e45f90af_c.jpg https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1758/...6b7ca8fa_c.jpg https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1750/...b8bb5114_c.jpg https://farm1.staticflickr.com/873/4...8ef32f7f_c.jpg https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1737/...26eecc24_c.jpg The entrance to the Orchid Garden and locals performing morning exercise routines. https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1753/...8fecf8da_c.jpg https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1754/...36608602_c.jpg https://farm1.staticflickr.com/878/2...ba2fbecd_c.jpg Finally, at the other end. https://farm1.staticflickr.com/874/4...3977945c_c.jpg By the time we got to the food centre, we had a good sweat going but this was more from the heat at 8.30am versus the walk. https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1758/...187c9a8b_c.jpg Not a lot of joints open in the morning but this one was and we ended up getting the Chicken Nasi lemak and Adam Special Nasi lemak. The only difference is that the Adam Special had mutton rendang in addition to the items from the Chicken set. https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1754/...d2b86b48_c.jpg My oh my. https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1758/...2b88757a_c.jpg Mine and hers. A typical nasi lemak consists of coconut rice, fried egg, ikan bilis, anchovies, sambal, potato cake and cucumber. https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1741/...4d503469_c.jpg Some thirst quenchers to wash down the food. https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1729/...a7b270b5_c.jpg Ice bandung with grass jelly + ice milo. https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1751/...79f4cec1_c.jpg Back to the gardens in the sweat inducing heat. https://farm1.staticflickr.com/881/4...f2fe9cee_c.jpg https://farm1.staticflickr.com/885/4...6153997b_c.jpg We came back to the Orchard Garden and paid the $5 per person entrance fee. https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1752/...793aee7b_c.jpg https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1734/...46ef5678_c.jpg https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1757/...17455861_c.jpg https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1756/...27ee0397_c.jpg https://farm1.staticflickr.com/902/4...757aacc2_c.jpg Mrs.I taking a moment to pose for an IG shot. https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1754/...2ee9fe06_c.jpg Tree of life. https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1738/...f8c39a39_c.jpg After the Botanic Garden, we headed over to Orchard Road for a stroll. https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1752/...38b4abca_c.jpg Where we ran into the Infinity gauntlet that Thanos apparently lost and was under constant guard by the Singapore authorities. I sent a pic of this to my friends and family back home and the overwhelming response was to steal it. Like, don’t people know about corporal punishment in Singapore – no thanks. :) https://farm1.staticflickr.com/877/4...35287dee_c.jpg https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1741/...5f2ff9be_c.jpg I know what to have for dinner. :) https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1729/...34bfa79d_c.jpg Shade. https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1726/...b1fe3eca_c.jpg After working up a really good sweat, we headed to Demsey Hill for lunch at Samy’s Curry. https://farm1.staticflickr.com/902/4...6b40db9a_c.jpg Chill atmosphere. https://farm1.staticflickr.com/874/4...de26ccaf_c.jpg We chose the biryani, masala chicken, mutton and cauliflower 65. Freebies thrown in were pumpkin, dhal and papadums. Extremely satisified with the quantity and quality - like mama's home cookin'. https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1732/...66deecc5_c.jpg After heading back to the hotel for a rest, we came back to Orchard Road to pick up a special gift that I bought myself. https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1736/...29fb46c6_c.jpg Here is said gift. The last bottle in all on Singapore … or the shop I bought it from … I forget which one. Mrs.I is still questioning my justification for buying it. https://farm1.staticflickr.com/893/4...d1b8d966_c.jpg Extremely happy with my purchase, it was time for dinner. https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1739/...951390c8_c.jpg https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1738/...faaa3eb7_c.jpg https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1721/...7333d7b2_c.jpg And finally on the bus back to the hotel. https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1729/...4c84b467_c.jpg Next installment up on the blog. |
Great photos the food looks amazing
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#hiddenfoodcentre #nightmarket
Our MH flight to KL would be leaving at 1:40pm out of Changi T2. This gave us enough time to drop our bags, head to T1 for lunch and back in time for boarding our flight.
https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1755/...85bc0b4a_c.jpg This looks like the right spot to drop our bags. https://farm1.staticflickr.com/902/4...2c2804c2_c.jpg https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1746/...5e0693c9_c.jpg After that, we hopped on the train to T1. https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1746/...111107e7_c.jpg https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1752/...6a54d7c0_c.jpg Passing by The Jewel scheduled to finish in 2019. https://farm1.staticflickr.com/885/4...bb01a559_c.jpg Once in T1, we headed down to the arrivals level and followed the signs for the Staff Canteen. https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1759/...218b9fb7_c.jpg https://farm1.staticflickr.com/890/4...2f0343c7_c.jpg After checking out what was available, we played it safe and went with biryani again. For those in the know, there are two prices posted for every item on the menu Staff price and Public price with the latter being a few dollars more. https://farm1.staticflickr.com/894/4...1fd2cc5f_c.jpg Back at T2. https://farm1.staticflickr.com/902/4...6cc29101_c.jpg The earlier MH flight being pushed back. https://farm1.staticflickr.com/882/4...7decfe72_c.jpg Walking through the Hall of Scotch. I want my future man cave to be like this someday but Mrs.I made a comment to the effect of Over her dead body. https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1756/...61248ee1_c.jpg https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1727/...f8d19d88_c.jpg https://farm1.staticflickr.com/878/4...0c7031a4_c.jpg Up, up and away! https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1727/...d47903f9_c.jpg One hour later https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1751/...aa7fd98c_c.jpg Taxi-ing by these lovely old ladies. https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1753/...7b24352f_c.jpg https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1732/...545f74cf_c.jpg After deplaning, we followed the signs to immigration where we lined up for 20 minutes due to Emirates arriving at the same time le sigh. Once we were through, we picked up our bags and followed the signs to the Airport Express. https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1735/...65941e42_c.jpg https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1732/...f1442bb6_c.jpg Once we got to KL Sentral, we grabbed a prepaid taxi to the Westin that was a quick 10 minutes away. The check-in formalities were straight forward and we headed up to the room. https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1738/...6bf17861_c.jpg https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1732/...180d4b7d_c.jpg https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1753/...efac9a40_c.jpg https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1734/...1915129e_c.jpg https://farm1.staticflickr.com/874/4...97ba4be3_c.jpg https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1756/...a931a027_c.jpg https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1732/...988e18d0_c.jpg It started to pour when we were on the train ride to the city and did not stop for a few hours. This killed our plan to visit the Petronas towers and left us with visiting the Jalan Alor night market that was a 10 minute walk away. https://farm1.staticflickr.com/877/4...9517fc2e_c.jpg https://farm1.staticflickr.com/897/4...39f49ae0_c.jpg https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1740/...df7cac41_c.jpg https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1726/...cfca8d36_c.jpg https://farm1.staticflickr.com/874/4...b9a0cbfd_c.jpg We made it to the end of the street and started off with some satay. Went with the set of 15 i.e. 5 chicken, 5 beef, 5 mutton. https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1749/...2ee80e01_c.jpg https://farm1.staticflickr.com/878/4...99a09fb0_c.jpg Followed by some delicious lamb cubes and Thai ice milk tea. https://farm1.staticflickr.com/902/4...cded86e2_c.jpg As you walk through the gauntlet, you are approached by all the vendors with menus. We finally settled on one after a eeny-meeny-minee-mo contest and ended up selectiing the items below. https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1754/...dcfea124_c.jpg Seafood fried rice, bbq chicken wings, and spicy prawns. https://farm1.staticflickr.com/898/4...1f680df1_c.jpg Stumbled back to the hotel with our stomachs super engorged and called it a night. We checked out of the hotel at 9am to catch our 12pm flight to Langkawi. The bellhop who took our bags suggested to take a taxi to the airport and it would cost us 100 MYR versus taking a taxi + train which would cost a little more. So we ended up taking the taxi. https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1748/...78d33c18_c.jpg There was a bit of a line checking in but it moved quickly and we were done in 15 minutes. https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1737/...2cfb2aa6_c.jpg Domestic security was empty and we were through that and the duty free in minutes. https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1721/...5b1900cc_c.jpg Quick brekkie of Mary Browns. https://farm1.staticflickr.com/893/4...01dc87ea_c.jpg Our bird taking us to LGK. https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1752/...15660a1e_c.jpg https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1752/...58fae771_c.jpg https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1758/...38d0d96a_c.jpg Sign of good things to come. https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1741/...49aee929_c.jpg Always loves a good walk off the plane. https://farm1.staticflickr.com/898/4...9eb8d034_c.jpg Picked up our bags, paid 60 MYR for a taxi and we were off for the 30 minute drive to the resort. https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1757/...8f44b439_c.jpg Half way there. https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1733/...078132b0_c.jpg Woohoo! https://farm1.staticflickr.com/897/4...249f20c4_c.jpg |
Great trip report! Thank you for sharing. The food looks amazing!
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#beachmode
As the driver pulled up to the front security post, the guard came out and requested my name to be written on a sheet and let us through. From there, it was a quick ride down a winding path similar to Amankila.
https://farm1.staticflickr.com/893/2...60a4eef4_c.jpg The driver pulled up to the covered front entrance where the staff welcomed us and ushered us to the inner sanctum. There is a gong near the entrance that they bang on to signal a new guest coming in. https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1758/...892be6e4_c.jpg https://farm1.staticflickr.com/894/4...d250e295_c.jpg https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1735/...79f54b78_c.jpg https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1751/...fc3bf088_c.jpg We were met by a check-in rep who escorted us to the lounge bar where the check-in formalities would be carried out. https://farm1.staticflickr.com/898/2...04d4d851_c.jpg https://farm1.staticflickr.com/894/2...75405580_c.jpg With a view of the pool below. https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1729/...9716d5b9_c.jpg The rep collected our passports and requested us to relax while she retrieved the paperwork. We were provided with a refreshing cold drink of apple juice mixed with ginger and cinnamon and a cold towel. The rep came back with the paperwork, requested that we check that everything was in order and provide a signature. The assistant GM, Vijay, came by and welcomed us to the Andaman. He told us to contact him in case we needed anything. Coincidentally, we did need something and this is where his expertise and service came through. We booked our stay at the Andaman through Virtuoso which guaranteed us benefits such as a guaranteed room upgrade, early check-in, late check-out plus a $100 credit. For some weird reason, the booking reservation got screwed up and we were booked with a regular room rate. Since I had SPG Gold status, Vijay automatically upgraded us to a higher room category and included breakfast. He could not do anything about the credit but he was willing to work with the Virtuoso team to fix it. The rep then explained to us everything that was on the resort and handed a map showing the locations of keys places. After that, she escorted us to our room. https://farm1.staticflickr.com/889/4...f3e3fc11_c.jpg Our room was located on the farthest end of the north wing and it took us approx. 5-7 minutes to walk there on a normal pace. Our bags were already in the room when we got there. https://farm1.staticflickr.com/890/4...46b1fc52_c.jpg https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1748/...f62185c8_c.jpg Off to the right as you entered, was the bathroom. https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1750/...954f72a4_c.jpg As you entered, the soaking tub was to the left with the standing shower + toilet to the right. https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1721/...b83c0f74_c.jpg https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1752/...570d060b_c.jpg https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1725/...56b8d397_c.jpg The bed and writing desk were off to the right in the main area with the TV and couch hugging the left wall. https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1731/...33eb85c2_c.jpg https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1738/...8862635e_c.jpg https://farm1.staticflickr.com/881/2...bca0afe6_c.jpg Like the sign says https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1748/...453b20c2_c.jpg Stepping out into our tiny balcony. https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1745/...22a42393_c.jpg With an amazing view of the beach https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1745/...481a537a_c.jpg The rep explained to us about the room and where everything was located. After that, she handed us two coupons for 2 free drinks respectively at the lounge bar which was definitely a surprise for us. After that, she left us to our own devices. An hour later, there was a knock on the door and it was one of the staff delivering cake and champagne to celebrate our anniversary. https://farm1.staticflickr.com/889/2...8f731a1e_c.jpg With SPG Gold status, we were also given free access to the Happy Hour for Gold/Platinum members at 4pm every day but we misheard and thought it was 6pm. When we got to the location, it was empty so we made our way up to the main lobby to explore. We ran into Vijay and he asked us why we didnt come for the happy hour and we told him we totally screwed up the time. He took us down to the beach bar and had drinks delivered on the house. #servicewithasmile Amaretto sour for her and a Tiger for me. https://farm1.staticflickr.com/901/4...2b9d3e9d_c.jpg We took our drinks onto the beach and settled into a hammock to watch the sunset which usually set around 7:30-ish pm every day. https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1746/...f5123e76_c.jpg https://farm1.staticflickr.com/877/2...6d2abf57_c.jpg After enjoying the sunset, we adjourned to our room for the night and ordered room service. https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1749/...1ba49945_c.jpg Fast forward to the morning where we headed down to The Restaurant where breakfast was served. We were never asked for our room number but instead were warmly greeted and escorted to a table of our choice with plenty to choose from inside or outside. We were asked what we would like to drink - Mrs.I wanted Tea Tahrik and it was made fresh every day. The staff remembered what we liked to drink, on the 2nd and 3rd days and proactively brought it to our table after confirming that was what we still wanted. https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1729/...8ea7c676_c.jpg https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1747/...c6b89686_c.jpg https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1754/...607ee2d3_c.jpg Inside the main buffet area were the hot items (western + local) plus salad bar, juice bar, fruit bar and cereal/yoghurt bar. https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1731/...c01bca34_c.jpg https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1754/...d7f3cacd_c.jpg Cereal + yoghurt bar. https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1728/...e86ba594_c.jpg Fruit bar. https://farm1.staticflickr.com/894/4...c8615715_c.jpg The hot stuff. https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1733/...3ca93bec_c.jpg https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1732/...3943b4a7_c.jpg To the left of the hot items was the Bakery and Noodle Bar. https://farm1.staticflickr.com/874/4...2783ab46_c.jpg https://farm1.staticflickr.com/873/2...3690db9d_c.jpg https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1722/...0a8afb25_c.jpg https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1734/...9e4c568b_c.jpg Noodle bar with some dim sum. https://farm1.staticflickr.com/893/2...35e5c9cd_c.jpg To the right of the main area was the Egg bar where you could get eggs as you like it. https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1722/...3ff87799_c.jpg Just a taste of some items from the buffet. https://farm1.staticflickr.com/898/4...9b040da6_c.jpg The head chef came by and introduced himself as Vijay had told him about us. He was from Malaysia of Indian descent and was a friendly gentleman. This was representive of all staff at the Andaman where the service was genuine and well intentional. To be continued in another post. |
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