Travel Vlog

Welcome back everyone!

It is so good to see you guys back after a while. This time, we couldn't wait to share with all of you guys our newest Vlog!!!! Let us take you to the beautiful Sydney city of Aussie!

At the beginning, Joanne will lead you guys to Eastwood, a mixture suburb of Chinese and Korean. Steph follows by introducing the wonderful Cronulla Beach, located in the South of Sydney. Greeshma will head us to another dazzling coastal area in Sydney, considered as the most stunning beach in Sydney - Manly Beach. After that, following Delia to Five Docks to get lost in Bayview Park! Hornsby is our next destination, and this time Matilda will take in charge as our tour guide. Finally, I will bring back the Asian breeze by showing my lovely neighbourhood in Eastwood.

Now pack your bag and let's go!

Kristen.

Indonesia - Bali

Top 5 Must-Visit Places in Bali

Some people say that Bali is highly overrated and not worth  visiting while some say it is one of the best experiences in their travels. Well, say what they like. To me, there is no place more heavenly than Bali!

Here are the top 5 must-visit places in Bali.

 

 

 

1. Uluwalu Temple

 

Source : http://static.panoramio.com/photos/original/34259424.jpg

Uluwatu Temple, Pura Luhur at Bali. 

Uluwatu Temple is a truly must-visit in Bali. It houses Bali’s few best beaches like Balangan and many good surfing spots. The temple is itself a majestic structure perched at the steep cliff of 70 meters above the Indian Ocean. you will be rewarded with a breathtaking view of either side and sunset over Uluwatu temple itself  if you go on even higher grounds nearby,

 

2. Tanah Lot

                       

 

Source: https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhSI6fGN13X0ewgoKDeDJQcXXeIubMX3_lJ1-822-3QQKs57KJ5JDuW-oYl0vcAA5VOOJpOWStdE2VckDahyphenhyphenysFbpH8L6aajxgNFwdjxdtu6dl1JVDOOfqj9GKU9IedT-Be3J6aFtwcI3Q/s1600/Tanah-Lot-Bali-Amazing-Beach.jpg

 

Pura Tanah Lot is most popular for its serenity and cultural significance as it is associated with the Balinese mythology as one of the seven temples that form a ring in the southwest of Bali. The experience of “walking  across the water” to the temple during the low tide is really fascinating !

3. Ubud

Ubud is one place you cannot miss in your visit. It is the heart of Bali, where all the action is and all the people and energy are focused on. Ubud is packed and condensed with the best of Bali, ranging from nature, culture and people, temples, museums, rolling rice/paddy fields and man-made gardens and parks.

4. Kuta Beach



Scenic view  at Kuta Beach, Bali
Source:https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhpyLYR4C5njAwvhE5trt33gseIT0cfv2l5v4ky28-z8tRoew3as3NEQt_d3HD_QsGwZJzKUEPYEAINKyrXhyI0hcZyI2Rd1NP7-yzSD6w2hZrBy9_GxvmhQEWbfGk9jyKd97UmLcy5m776/s1600/kuta+bali.jpg

            

Kuta Beach is the most popular beach in Bali. Come here if you are looking to socialize, party and have a good time. You can be sure to find a range of places for different atmosphere and budget, ranging from Hard Rock Cafe to your neighborhood cafe and pub.

5. Climb Mount Batur at Kintamani



Gorgeous view at Mount Batur Kintamani, Bali Source: https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiaeTfd76YpLCYzWB8D1wofWqutUqES42aIfZ-Xnj1xi9_bmEX-ROBQYdTq-b-tK3le-oj_XIOy_xEAUzNA7YnivIs1RKag-65nR45X8KenfISIVGops82LQeR3VFmkj7Gi2bTYg1GrSoNQ/s1600/kintamani.jpg

 

Mount Batur caldera lies up in a highland in Kintamani, Bali. A climb to the summit (1700 meters) of this active volcano is a great experience for any active traveller. Many would opt for the sunrise hike for an ultimate experience. This hike is relatively easy and the treks are quite well marked. From the peak of the mountain, there are views in all direction to sweep you off your feet!

Source : http://allindonesiatravel.com/top-10-must-visit-see-places-in-bali/

 

 

Packing Light

 

Are you having headache of packing too much which ended up disorganized, burdened with heavy bags?

“Pack everything you think you will need and get rid of half of it”.

Here are my great tips on packing light to enjoy your perfect holiday trip without backpain !

1. Roll, don't fold.

Always complaining of your wrinkled clothings ? Roll your clothes into tight tubes. Tightly rolled clothes take up less space than folded ones and reduce wrinkles from fold creases.

2. Make a packing list

Start your packing process days before or even weeks ahead ( if you are planning for a long trip) before  your departure date .Creating a packing list is a fail-safe way which ensure you never, ever forget to bring important documents or items such as PASSPORT and BOOKING FLIGHTS! However ,don’t just bring everything but consider the necessary and essential items . For example grabbing many travel guides and books from tourist centre is a big epic failure for most backpackers   as all these books and guides take up a lot of spaces and add unnecessary weight to your back.( Now you can understand the reason of your backpain )

 

3. Wash your clothes on the road

Laundry facilities are one of my favourite parts when staying in vacation rentals or backpacking hostels where I can wash and wear just a few clothings for my long travel trips.

My ultimate tips : I always bring along my travel-size packet of laundry detergent which is handy and easy to clean my clothings and  a laundry bag to separate my dirty clothings on the road. I also put an odor absorber to keep my clothes fresh  

 

4. Use packing aids

My all-time favorite packing aid: Eagle Creek Compression Sacs. Use them to shrivel your clothes into a vacuum-packed, tight bundle that takes up minimal suitcase space. Packing envelopes and packing cubes also help you to organise your stuff better too ! Hence, you don’t have to complain all the times that you don’t have enough space to keep your things !

Follow these simple tips  to enjoy your perfect holidays . If you have any tips on packing light or brilliant packing tips , feel free to drop a comment !

 

Happy Holidays

Meng Yee

Source:

http://www.usatoday.com/story/travel/advice/2012/12/12/10-packing-tips-every-traveler-should-know/1764207/

 

Travelling Hacks

Top 3 tips for Travelling During the Peak Season

#1. Book in advance

Book your accommodation, trip  and tours  in advance to avoid disappointment and not to miss the best deals. Be sure to check your booking details such as flight  bookings to avoid extra fee charges.

#2. Always arrive early on time

Wait for 15 minutes…. Why do we have to reach so early  ?  This is a common mistake that travellers often make. Don’t waste your time proscastinating. Queues will be longer, roads will be busier and check-ins will be slower during the holiday peak season. Plan ahead your schedule and give yourself enough time to reach to your destination so that you don’t miss pre-scheduled bookings or the best deals.

#3. Pre-book tours and buy fast track tickets

Are you tired and frustrated of long queues ? Why don’t you pre-book your tour? It will save you time by avoiding  the  long frustrating  queues . Booking your tickets for attractions and tours well ahead of time can also save you $$.

Hoping that all of you will have  great holidays ahead !

Rgds,
Meng Yee

 

Source : http://thetravelhack.com/travel-tips/10-tips-travelling-peak-holiday-season/

 

Travelling inspirations

Travelling Inspirations!!

http://www.huffingtonpost.com/jinna-yang/20-of-the-most-inspiring-_b_8856096.html

Travelling is inspirational. In this world, there is so much more too see than staying just in one place. Fill your life with different pages. Meeting new people and experiencing new cultures can often inspire you with new ideas and thoughts. As people always said, "Life begins at the end of your comfort zone." When you travel alone and facing some difficulties, you will be glad and appreciate that strangers can offer you help due to their kindness. When you are travelling to some poor countries, you will be thankful for what you have got and realize that you are already luckier than a lot of people. After been to another world, you will be more open minded and your insight will become broader. You will see things in a more different way than the others. It makes you special. Travelling is an adventure but also a lesson. Go on a trip, get inspiration and passion back into your life, recharge your energy, stay positive and live a life that you love. 

Small humans in a big world. 

Cheers 

 Delia

Travelling essentials

Hello there,

Panic about what to pack before going travelling?

Confused about there are the cheapest hotels that can be booked?

Hoping to book a cheap airticket to reduce your total expenses?

Here is your savior!

1. Basic travelling check list

- Accessories : Alarm clock, contact lenses, slippers, sunglasses, camera, chargers, Tripod
- Beauty and health: Comb, brush, facial cleanser, medicine, makeup, sunscreen
- Others: Cash, travelling pillow, Sim card, wifi egg, snacks


2. Hotels booking

Here are some of the websites that can aid you to book cheap but tidy and comfortable hotels.
There are ratings on it and price clearly showed.
All payments are required to be paid by card via online first.

http://www.booking.com
http://www.trivago.com.au/
https://www.wotif.com/MobileHotel


3. Airtickets

Here are some websites that can compare airtickets with different airline companies all at once to help you get the best result of prices.
Very convenient to use.

https://www.skyscanner.com.au
https://www.expedia.com.au/m/flights
http://www.farecompare.com/

By Delia

New Zealand- Queenstown

Calling Out For Adventurous Adrenaline Seekers!

Where is the coolest place on earth to soak up all the fun, excitement and adventure? It is none other than Queenstown, New Zealand!  New Zealand’s incredibly picturesque and famous adventure and activity  hub, Queenstown, is the perfect place just for YOU!

There are tons of other adventure activities you can do in Queenstown such as bungy jumping, white water rafting, jet boating and many more … SO MUCH FUN!

Excited? Check out the top activities to do in Queenstown

Enjoy the View at Lake Tekapo

                                                 What a beautiful and stunning view ....
                                                        Source: Lake Tekapo

Lake Tekapo, the gorgeous centerpiece of Queenstown. I bet you will  come back here AGAIN because it is just so beautiful.  Stroll along the shore and be amazed by the stunning view it offers  

 

Wine Tasting

Queenstown is renowned for its wine, particularly at Central Otago Pinot Noir. You can join wine tours or visit the many  vineyards where you can try out their wines for FREE ! Sounds cool right?

 

Take a Day Trip to Milford Sound

                                    Breathless view ...

Source : http://www.globotreks.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/08/Milford-Sound-600x400.jpg

 

Trust me! Your trip to New Zealand is not complete if you miss this spectacular and awe- inspiring place which is located in the heart of the Fiordland National Park.

Try the Great Walks

To really experience the true beauty of New Zealand, try out the great walks! Trailwalks here are aplenty such as the Routeburn Valley Track, Milford Track, Ben Lomond Track and many more. The Routeburn Track offers the best view! Wear comfortable shoes to avoid leg pain , there is a long way to walk and explore !

Explore The Lord Of The Rings Film Locations

How I wish I could stay here for the rest of my life!
Source :

Step into Middle-earth and beyond…walk where hobbits walked….

Fans of Hobbit and Lord of the Rings , it is time for you to explore

I would highly  recommend you to choose for Nomad Safaris Glenorchy tour. You will explore Isengard, Amon Hen, Lothlorien Forest, The Misty Mountains ...... ( I know right now you are very excited! )  It was very insightful and I learnt a lot  from the tour guide's sharing of the filming process 

                 Excited ? Are you stunned by the photos above? So what are you waiting for?

                           Plan your trip now and  all the best in your trip to New  Zealand!

If you like have any recommendations or any suggestions of activities to do in Queenstown, feel free to comment !

By Meng Yee

 

Travel Tips

7 Budget Travel Tips for Students
 

Are you a student with a limited budget and you love travelling with a bunch of friends? Well, travelling does not have to be expensive if you follow my top seven budget travel tips below:

1. Select Your Destination Wisely

Choose an affordable place to travel to. While $100 might not last you the day in Paris, it could last you for more than a week in Penang! It is always advisable to consider the cost of transportation, accommodation, and activities before you decide on which destination you want to head to.

2. Be A Volunteer

Accommodation is a major traveling cost. Why not get it free by volunteering abroad?  It will not  only save you money but it will be an amazing experience to give back to the community. You can stay with a local for free. It will totally transform your experience!

3. Book Your Flight Tickets Early

Always book your flight ticket early to get you the best price. The later you do it, the more expensive your ticket gets.

4. Start  Planning Before You Go

In these days of easy connectivity and information at your fingertips, it is worth your while reading up on your potential destinations. Having a clue of where you are headed will save you the trouble of  walking around the streets staring at a guidebook or an app if you have already done your web research.

5. Look Out For Cheap Transportation

It is easier and more convenient  to take a taxi to your destination but don’t do it! You could rack up a hefty bill with added tourist fees charged by the drivers.  Try using public transport to get from the airport and around the city! Consider walking as it is good for your body, the environment and your wallet!

6. Save On Accommodation

Avoid staying at expensive hotels if you can! Rent an apartment or room on Airbnb, check out a local hostel or opt for a homestay. There are so many different options that will save you money. Decide what is best for you and your budget.

7. Find Student Discounts

Do you know that you can get discounts at more than 130,000 places in 136 countries around the world? Contact a student travel agency in your hometown to find out about discount fares.


The  great time to experiment and to take a leap and try things out of your comfort zone during our university life ! GO Out and Have Fun ! 

 Although you and I ( students ) are always up to the budget when it comes to travelling ,but as long as you follow these great tips ! Travelling round the world  can be your dream !

By Meng Yee

Penang - The Pearl Of Orient

There is no place like Penang, the island where I was born, grew up and studied in. If you haven't visited it yet, then it's about time you did especially if you are a foodie lover like me.. Let me tell you why Penang is a must-visit place in your travel itinerary.

Penang embraces modernity while retaining its old world charm and traditions. These are reflected in its harmonious multiracial communities and well-preserved heritage buildings which led to George Town being accorded a listing as a UNESCO World Cultural Heritage Site recently. Penang also lures visitors with its sumptuous cuisines and beautiful beaches.

Penang’s unique charms and alluring attributes together with its many-faceted cultures make it a favourite of many.The laid-back lifestyle on Penang is a result of the melting pot of cultures, food and  religions. The UNESCO World Heritage Site of George Town, particularly, is a mixture of Chinese, Malay, Indian and other races from cuisine to architecture.

Penang's fascinating culture is complemented by its golden beaches and tranquil seas. It is truly a tropical paradise that offers so much for everyone.

 

To have a better insight into the charms and attractions of Penang, watch this  video below:

 

 

 

                                               Source:  https://youtu.be/WvCHeL3v2GU

Can't wait to travel to Penang ? I hope to see you in Penang during Summer Break !

By Meng Yee MAH

Hong Kong 2

Heyyyyyyyy it is me again :)
This is Hong Kong part 2!

Food is our friend, can't stop and won't stop!

1. Egg tart

http://staticc03.insing.com/images/32/c6/0d/00/pc_600x450.jpg

This is a famous baked tart in Hong Kong which is filled with egg custard in the middle. They are super delicious as they have a very silky custard and a crumbly pastry that melts in your mouth. You will never get bored of this egg tart. They are best served in hot condition. You can find them mostly in bakery shop.

2. Yum Cha

 https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhYzA1tvTS26qddqKlF7gJNrq1TYOkzrENDxYMtQdHk-jToi5DvGejdZmUPVmNLSqy1L1ftai6XvJF69vNCxD3uMh5qFCbfiS5nVXE1Rv9C_r7-uUpiPDK3inU6J21HXedZ0gpHU4EONjoB/s1600/PixHandler.ashx.jpg

Yum cha is always the best option for lunch in Hong Kong. It is also called "Dimsum", which is a type of Cantonese style cuisine, involving drinking tea and eating dim sum. Chinese tea is an essential in Yum Cha and dim sum are all in snack-sized portions which can be shared with everyone. It is a place for people to catch up with each other and chill for the whole afternoon. In traditional way, dim sum are usually being served with push-able trolleys. With on-going improvements, push-able trolleys are now changed to paper-based ordering system. Have a try, you will never regret it.

3. Chinese barbecue

http://whatshieats.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/02/IMG_3389.jpg

Chinese barbecue, is called "Siu Mei" as well, are barbecued meats which are highly seasoned and roasted over an open fire or oven. They are usually hanging behind the transparent window so that it is visible to the people from the street. It is impossible for you to miss this type of food in Hong Kong. This cuisine has a lot of freedom, you can pair your own favourite roast meats with rice or noodles. Barbecued pork is the most famous dish, as it is a seasoned boneless pork which barbecued with honey, rice wine and spices etc. Super yummy!

So....mouthwatering already?

This is all for today :)

See you next time!

By Delia

Vietnam 1

Welcome to Vietnam!

A warm welcome back to Travelfun blog, our lovely viewers! Today, we are going to take another flight to the Southeast Asia, where a beautiful country - Vietnam - is located.

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Vietnam#/media/File:Flag_of_Vietnam.svg

With an estimated 90.5 million inhabitants recorded in 2014, it is ranked at the 14th most populous country in the world. Our country is the neighbour of Laos, Cambodia and China. The official main language of our country is Vietnamese. Vietnam has a S-shape, with a variety of cultures spreading along the country.

So, where should we visit when we go to Vietnam?!

1. Hanoi

Hanoi is the capital of Vietnam, which also means 'the city surrounded within a river'. This city has been famous for its profound history of more than 1000 years!! 

http://static.asiawebdirect.com/m/bangkok/portals/vietnam/homepage/hanoi/nightlife/pagePropertiesImage/hanoi-nightlife.jpg

When visiting Hanoi, you cannot miss the 36 street, also known as the old quarters!

http://www.hanoihotels.info/wp-content/uploads/2011/01/Hanoi-Old-Quarter.jpg

The Northern cuisine is affected very strongly in the street food of Hanoi, with a wide variety from main courses to desserts in an incredibly cheap price! Street food can be found anywhere in this small tiny capital.

http://megafun.vn/dataimages/201404/original/bun-cha-thit-nuong-1122027.jpg

Bun Cha (Grilled pork vermicelli)

http://foodimg.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/07/gioi-thieu-ve-pho-ha-noi.jpg

Pho (Vietnamese Beef Noodle)

https://c1.staticflickr.com/7/6222/6271844122_2b32e9284b_b.jpg

Vietnamese Green Sticky Rice

By Kristen.

Greece

Greece


Greece also know as Hellas, is a country located in southeastern Europe.
Ancient Greece was the birthplace of democracy, Western philosophy, the Olympic Games,Western literature, historiography, political science, major scientific and mathematical principle and Western drama.

Greece is know for being one of the oldest country with history dating to 7th BC, this fact just makes it worth visiting Greece.
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Greece


When it comes to traveling its all about the beauty of the country and the food. So here I am listing down the few things you have to do when visiting Greece.


https://www.happycow.net/blog/10-vegan-dishes-not-to-miss-in-greece/

Places:

Samaria Gorge:

Is a national park located on the island of Crete. It is beauty inside out and is full of history. Its just one of those places that should be in everyone's bucket list. The walk itself is way to adventure and my camera was on auto mode I just didn't want to miss anything.


https://soflyinmybowtie.com/2011/06/15/samaria-gorge-beach-lectures/gorge-3/

Temple of Olympian Zeus, Athens:


https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Temple_of_Olympian_Zeus,_Athens

I am a huge fan of history, I love listening to those beautiful stories that my grandmother tells me. I believe Greece tops the list when it comes to history well at least for me. Come on they have god and goddess for pretty much everything -- God of love, God of Beauty, God of music, God of knowledge the list goes on and I love it.

The Temple of Olympian Zeus is located in Athens the capital of Greece and is dedicated to Zeus, King of Olympian as the name suggests.



Food:

Greek food is popular not only in Greece but all over the world and I am sure you walked past a Greek Salad today no matter where you come from.

Yes Greek salad is from Greek and so is that yummy Dip that is know by different names Tzatziki.


Tzatziki

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_Greek_dishes

Greek salad

and who could forget the healthy Greek Yogurt. Greek Yogurt tastes the best in Greek, its just too flavorful and is a  beautiful desert.

and more than anything the views such as these


https://travelvisabookings.com/greece-schengen-visa-in-7-days/





http://beaconholidays.com/destination/greece/

Just makes the trip extra special and memorable.

This is Greeshma, and will be back with more.
I will go get my Greek yogurt now.

Hong Kong

Hello everyone! It is time for our new post again on travelling!

Today, it is Hong Kong's turn! Part 1

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Flag_of_Hong_Kong#/media/File:Flag_of_Hong_Kong.svg

Hong Kong is located in Asia, and it is a special administrative region of China. In Hong Kong, there is approximately 7,069,378 population. Our language is mainly Cantonese and English. So, where are the famous places that you can visit and play around in Hong Kong?

1. Victoria Harbour

http://www.grayline.com/tours/hong-kong/a-symphony-of-lights-victoria-harbour-dinner-cruise-5859_33/

http://www.acbc.com.au/events_644-1

Victoria Harbour is one of the most famous highlight attractions as it has the most beautiful night views in Hong Kong. It is located between Hong Kong Island and Kowloon Island. It is truly amazing to go on a harbour cruise, starting an unforgettable journey in the true main heart of Hong Kong.

2. Ocean Park

http://edenvacation.com/tour/ocean-park-entrance-ticket/

Speaking of having an enjoyable and fun day with friends and family, Ocean Park is a must go place. Ocean Park is an animal and amusement theme park. It opens 7 days a week, providing lots of excitement and happiness to everyone. In there, you can find all kind of animals such as pandas, sharks, dolphins and butterflies etc. Moreover, different roller coasters and rides are available for you to challenge yourself! It is definitely worth to visit this place.

3. Cheung Chau

http://mintmochamusings.com/cheungchau/

https://www.expedia.com.au/Cheung-Chau.d8483.Destination-Travel-Guides

If you are looking for a place that includes beach to chill out and seafood to kill your cravings, Cheung Chau Island is the best place. It is located in the Southwest of Hong Kong Island. It is also named "dumbbell Island" due to its shape. In here, you will not only find seafood, you can also have Hong Kong street food like big fishballs and desserts. It is so delicious that you will never want to leave this place. Also, there are some lively street markets and temples for you to explore. On the beach, you can swim and chill with your companies. Different water sports like windsurfing are allowed if you are interested. It will take you around 45 mins by ferries to get into this Island from the main heart of Hong Kong Island.

This is all for today! See you on the next post :)

By Delia

  

Kerala

https://www.makemytrip.com/blog/kerala-info

Kerala, Its a beauty beyond words.

Kerala is an Indian state in the southern part of India, it is well know for its breathtaking beauty and mouthwatering, spiced food especially fish.

My visit to Kerala has been so memorable and delightful. It is perfect for couples, families and friends.

Places:



https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lBQkfA-OEv0

THEKKADY

This is too romantic and I believe one of the greatest spots in the world for a nice relaxing time with your partner. Kerala along with its food is know for its national parks, and Thekkady is one of the many tourist attraction of the city.



http://english.mathrubhumi.com/travel/kerala/kerala-travel/muzhappilangad-drive-in-spot-1.34110

Muzhappilangad Beach

This place is a Drive in beach, which makes it extra special. I have been to many beaches but to actually drive my car in to the water was just so amazing. The sunset just adds that extra sweet bonus for the trip.

Food:

Like many other states of India, Rice is considered to be the main food. As mentioned above Fish tastes at its best in Kerala.

My favorites were Kerala prawn curry and Meen moilee (kerala style fish curry)

If you ask me " Would I travel all the way to India just to taste these dishes?" without hesitation its an YES. The mix of spice and local produce is just too mouth watering and delicious.


http://www.recipeshubs.com/fish-moilee-keralan-fish-stew/42523

Meen Moilee


http://www.bbcgoodfood.com/recipes/1326/kerala-prawn-curry

Kerala prawn curry

By
Greeshma Chamarthy