tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-30340974854159618472024-03-14T16:01:46.807+08:00The Loft PrinceDaryl | The Loft Princehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14662589755240540856noreply@blogger.comBlogger34125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3034097485415961847.post-21388603880910561752014-12-29T14:57:00.004+08:002014-12-29T14:57:53.373+08:00Beijing Day 2 - Exploring the vast complex of the Ming Tombs<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;">
<span style="background: #F7F7F7; color: #666666; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 9.0pt; mso-bidi-font-weight: bold;">The second day started out real early as we needed to meet our tour guide
at 7am. Yes, that early! As a result, we rushed through breakfast just to get
to the hotel lobby on time where we will be picked up.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="background: #F7F7F7; color: #666666; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 9.0pt; mso-bidi-font-weight: bold;">We hopped on the van, along with the other folks who will be joining us,
to start the long journey towards the <b>Ming Tombs</b>. To start off, our tour
guide provided a few details about Beijing and how life goes on around here.
There’s also a bit of introduction amongst the folks who are with us in the
van. So, all in all, we were 8 – a Japanese couple, a solo traveler from Hong
Kong, and our group.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/32777953@N02/15513713721" title="P5023144053e by The Loft Prince, on Flickr"><img alt="P5023144053e" height="375" src="https://farm6.staticflickr.com/5599/15513713721_23524d2061.jpg" width="500" /></a></div>
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<span style="background: #F7F7F7; color: #666666; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 9.0pt; mso-bidi-font-weight: bold;">Situated 50 kilometers northwest of Beijing, it took us more than an hour
to reach the Ming Tombs. Probably it took that long since this one includes a
bit of traffic while going through the capital’s business district. Fast enough
if compared to my hometown’s traffic situation where a whole hour will be on
standstill. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="background: #F7F7F7; color: #666666; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 9.0pt; mso-bidi-font-weight: bold;">The long trip to the foot of the Tianshou Mountain where the Ming Tombs
are located wasn’t so bad since we got to see a whole lot of nice scenery prior
to arriving at our destination. As it was springtime, the plants and trees were
really beautiful! Well, only some of us – the others were sleeping so soundly
probably due to lack of sleep the night before. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/32777953@N02/15330051010" title="P5023142051e by The Loft Prince, on Flickr"><img alt="P5023142051e" height="375" src="https://farm6.staticflickr.com/5597/15330051010_0cdbd42189.jpg" width="500" /></a></div>
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<span style="background: #F7F7F7; color: #666666; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 9.0pt; mso-bidi-font-weight: bold;">This one we visited was called the <b>Dingling Tomb</b>. It is the
mausoleum of Emperor Zhu Yijun who ruled during the years 1563 up to 1620. It’s
considered to be unique among the other 13 Ming Tombs located in the nearby
area because it has an Underground Palace. More about that feature later on.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/32777953@N02/15329902249" title="P5023136045e by The Loft Prince, on Flickr"><img alt="P5023136045e" height="500" src="https://farm6.staticflickr.com/5610/15329902249_3273989511.jpg" width="375" /></a></div>
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<span style="background: #F7F7F7; color: #666666; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 9.0pt; mso-bidi-font-weight: bold;">According to our guide, the Ming Tombs were specifically placed here to
be in harmony with nature – where the unity of heaven and humanity is
considered. A few steps ahead at the entrance, we were greeted with the Stele
of Sacred Merits. Took a few pictures here to start off. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="background: rgb(247, 247, 247); font-size: 12px;"><o:p><span style="color: #666666; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/32777953@N02/15513675051" title="P5023104019e by The Loft Prince, on Flickr"><img alt="P5023104019e" height="500" src="https://farm4.staticflickr.com/3934/15513675051_183513a467.jpg" width="375" /></a></span></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="background: rgb(247, 247, 247); font-size: 12px;"><o:p><span style="color: #666666; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="background: #F7F7F7; color: #666666; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 9.0pt; mso-bidi-font-weight: bold;">Afterwards, we entered the tomb grounds where a background story was
given to us about this place. There are also some facts about the Dingling Tomb
on the boards near the entrance. So, apart from the emperor, the mausoleum also
houses Empress Xiaoduan and Empress Xiaojing. It was built over 6 years and
covers an area of 180,000 square meters. Really huge place! I wouldn’t have
expected any less for places built for royalty even if it is their burial
ground.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/32777953@N02/15516837235" title="P5023108022e by The Loft Prince, on Flickr"><img alt="P5023108022e" height="375" src="https://farm4.staticflickr.com/3941/15516837235_1eff2a280e.jpg" width="500" /></a></div>
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<span style="background: #F7F7F7; color: #666666; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 9.0pt; mso-bidi-font-weight: bold;">We briefly went around the grounds and headed straight into the
Underground Palace which was rediscovered in 1956. Located 27 meters below the
surface, we had to go down 8 flights of stairs to see what this place is all
about. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="background: rgb(247, 247, 247); font-size: 12px;"><span style="color: #666666; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/32777953@N02/15330150858" title="P5023127039e by The Loft Prince, on Flickr"><img alt="P5023127039e" height="500" src="https://farm3.staticflickr.com/2950/15330150858_7b299a8625.jpg" width="375" /></a></span></span></div>
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<span style="background: #F7F7F7; color: #666666; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 9.0pt; mso-bidi-font-weight: bold;">What greeted us downstairs was amazing! This is definitely one huge
palace worthy of royalty – even if it is for burial purposes. Measuring up to
1,195 square meters, this place consists of 5 chambers. Such is also the
architectural wonder how this palace was built with just pure stone without the
use of any beam or column! <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="background: rgb(247, 247, 247); font-size: 12px;"><o:p><span style="color: #666666; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/32777953@N02/15330160478" title="P5023122034e by The Loft Prince, on Flickr"><img alt="P5023122034e" height="375" src="https://farm3.staticflickr.com/2948/15330160478_5fd62973e7.jpg" width="500" /></a></span></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="background: #F7F7F7; color: #666666; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 9.0pt; mso-bidi-font-weight: bold;">Pressing on, we got to the rear chamber where the coffins of the emperor
and empresses are located. Obviously, this had to be the most important one of
all. Another given is that the biggest of the coffins in the middle had to be
for the emperor. Oh yeah, there are many who throw money at this place as an
offering to have their wishes granted. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="background: rgb(247, 247, 247); font-size: 12px;"><o:p><span style="color: #666666; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/32777953@N02/15329922989" title="P5023119032e by The Loft Prince, on Flickr"><img alt="P5023119032e" height="375" src="https://farm4.staticflickr.com/3950/15329922989_9aa5bcca58.jpg" width="500" /></a></span></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="background: rgb(247, 247, 247); font-size: 12px;"><o:p><span style="color: #666666; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="background: #F7F7F7; color: #666666; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 9.0pt; mso-bidi-font-weight: bold;">After going through all of the Underground Palace, we headed upstairs. Easier
said than done! The long climb was gruesome that I had to stop many times to
recover and breathe. Nah, just being dramatic on that one.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="background-color: #f7f7f7; color: #666666; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 12px;"><a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/32777953@N02/15513654141" title="P5023125037e by The Loft Prince, on Flickr"><img alt="P5023125037e" height="375" src="https://farm4.staticflickr.com/3935/15513654141_71768c9621.jpg" width="500" /></a></span></div>
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<span style="background: #F7F7F7; color: #666666; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 9.0pt; mso-bidi-font-weight: bold;"><o:p><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/32777953@N02/15516415782" title="P5023135044e by The Loft Prince, on Flickr"><img alt="P5023135044e" height="500" src="https://farm6.staticflickr.com/5616/15516415782_f80b5bcc7b.jpg" width="375" /></a></span></o:p></span><br />
<span style="background: #F7F7F7; color: #666666; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 9.0pt; mso-bidi-font-weight: bold;"><o:p><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span></o:p></span></div>
<span style="background: #F7F7F7; color: #666666; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 9.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ansi-language: EN-PH; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-font-weight: bold; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-bidi; mso-fareast-font-family: "MS Mincho"; mso-fareast-language: JA; mso-fareast-theme-font: minor-fareast;">We ended our tour of this
UNESCO World Heritage Site by stepping across the Lingxing Gate in order to
bring us back into the living world. Well, that move made it a point that we
come back safe!</span><br />
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<span style="background-color: #f7f7f7; color: #666666; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 9pt; line-height: 13px;">What are your thoughts on the<b> </b></span><span style="background-color: #f7f7f7; color: #666666; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 9pt;"><b>Ming Tombs</b></span><span style="background-color: #f7f7f7; color: #666666; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 9pt; line-height: 13px;">? Did this post make you want to go and visit it too? Tell me about it by commenting below or using the Contact button on the right.</span></div>
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<span style="background-color: #f7f7f7; color: #666666; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 9pt; line-height: 13px;">If you have some questions, feel free to ask. I’ll try my best to help you out.</span></div>
Daryl | The Loft Princehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14662589755240540856noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3034097485415961847.post-19719303687199206172014-10-13T11:17:00.003+08:002014-10-13T11:17:25.662+08:00Beijing Day 1 - Reliving the Olympic spirit at the Olympic Green<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;">
<span style="background: #F7F7F7; color: #666666; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 9.0pt; mso-bidi-font-weight: bold;">Still having plenty of daylight left, we headed on to the Olympic Green –
the venue of the 2008 Beijing Olympic Games. The vast complex is really
grandeur. Spanning about 2,800 acres, the iconic structures which identify the
place really stood out. Also, the wide open spaces can surely fit in thousands
of patrons at any given time. A really nice place to explore!<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/32777953@N02/9187267685" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" title="P5013074073e by The Loft Prince, on Flickr"><img alt="P5013074073e" height="375" src="https://farm3.staticflickr.com/2875/9187267685_7ff136077e.jpg" width="500" /></a></td></tr>
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<span style="background: #F7F7F7; color: #666666; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 9.0pt; mso-bidi-font-weight: bold;">The commute towards here is relatively easy. We just hopped on the
subway, transferred a few lines, and a few minutes later got to the Olympic
Sports Center station. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="background: #F7F7F7; color: #666666; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 9.0pt; mso-bidi-font-weight: bold;">Emerging from the station, we encountered so many people. Who would have
thought that the crowds who visit the place are still aplenty after 5 years? Moving
into the park proper, we were all at awe. The scene is just like in the
television broadcasts of the games! Up close, the structures were truly fantastic
– most especially the National Stadium more commonly known as the Bird’s Nest. This
enormous stadium is where most of the games were held. In addition, it was the
venue for both the opening and closing ceremonies for the Beijing Olympics.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/32777953@N02/15330277007" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" title="P5013078003e by The Loft Prince, on Flickr"><img alt="P5013078003e" height="375" src="https://farm6.staticflickr.com/5612/15330277007_ee7f279127.jpg" width="500" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">National Stadium entrance</td></tr>
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<span style="background: #F7F7F7; color: #666666; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 9.0pt; mso-bidi-font-weight: bold;">The clear blue skies above proved to be a beautiful backdrop too. Simply
breathtaking!<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="background: #F7F7F7; color: #666666; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 9.0pt; mso-bidi-font-weight: bold;">We took a lot of photos here since we enjoyed the views so much. The only
challenge we faced is finding a good spot where there aren’t that many people
swarming around your back. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/32777953@N02/15330286807" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" title="P5013062063e by The Loft Prince, on Flickr"><img alt="P5013062063e" height="500" src="https://farm6.staticflickr.com/5610/15330286807_d6fb6e412a.jpg" width="375" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">kite flying</td></tr>
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<span style="background: #F7F7F7; color: #666666; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 9.0pt; mso-bidi-font-weight: bold;">There were also many merchants peddling good here – from children’s toys
to Olympic memorabilia to food and drinks. A friend of mine got herself a long
string of kites imprinted with the Beijing Olympic mascots. We had fun flying
it since the winds were really strong that sunny spring day. Got some nice
shots while kite flying at the side of the Bird’s Nest. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">kite flying with the Bird's Nest as backdrop</td></tr>
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<span style="background: #F7F7F7; color: #666666; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 9.0pt; mso-bidi-font-weight: bold;">The next one we went to in this complex is the National Aquatic Center.
Also known as the Water Cube, this facility served as the venue for all water
related sports during the games. It was really nice to see how this building
was made from up close. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<div style="text-align: center;">
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/32777953@N02/15516449882" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" title="P5013097013e by The Loft Prince, on Flickr"><img alt="P5013097013e" height="375" src="https://farm3.staticflickr.com/2950/15516449882_d7a715099e.jpg" width="500" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Water Cube at night</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
</div>
<br /></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;">
<span style="background: #F7F7F7; color: #666666; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 9.0pt; mso-bidi-font-weight: bold;">Walking towards the edge of the complex, we reached the LingLong Tower
with its multi-colored lights already brightly shining. This structure served
as the main broadcasting tower during the games where the media telecast their
coverage. Standing at 132 meters, this structure is also the tallest one here
at the complex.<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="background: #F7F7F7; color: #666666; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 9.0pt; mso-bidi-font-weight: bold;"><br /></span>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/32777953@N02/15330267747" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" title="P5013085008e by The Loft Prince, on Flickr"><img alt="P5013085008e" height="500" src="https://farm3.staticflickr.com/2945/15330267747_c8fd17ec40.jpg" width="375" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">golden LingLong tower</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="background: rgb(247, 247, 247); color: #666666; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 12px;"></span></div>
</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;">
<span style="background: #F7F7F7; color: #666666; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 9.0pt; mso-bidi-font-weight: bold;">As it was nighttime when we finished exploring the whole place, all the
popular facilities lit up really nicely. Everything still looked pretty awesome
at night! The vibe each one gives is quite different as well. Just let the
photos do most of the explaining.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;">
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/32777953@N02/15330195388" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" title="P5013082007e by The Loft Prince, on Flickr"><img alt="P5013082007e" height="375" src="https://farm3.staticflickr.com/2945/15330195388_4f35d093c1.jpg" width="500" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">National Sports Center at night</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/32777953@N02/15516851535" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" title="P5013087010e by The Loft Prince, on Flickr"><img alt="P5013087010e" height="375" src="https://farm4.staticflickr.com/3929/15516851535_0cf3c00370.jpg" width="500" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Bird's Nest at night</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;">
<span style="background: #F7F7F7; color: #666666; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 9.0pt; mso-bidi-font-weight: bold;">Our visit here was really a great experience. Though we did not enter
each of the facilities, taking everything in from the outside was definitely
enough to awaken the Olympic spirit from 5 years back. A must see attraction I
must say for all those who are planning to visit Beijing. It’s something not to
miss! <o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="background: #F7F7F7; color: #666666; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 9.0pt; mso-bidi-font-weight: bold;"><br /></span>
<br />
<div style="margin: 0in;">
<b><span style="background-color: #f7f7f7; color: #666666; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 9pt;">How to get here:<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div style="margin: 0in;">
<span style="color: #666666; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: 12px;">Take Line 8 of the subway network and alight at Olympic Green Station. Alternatively, you can alight at Olympic Sports Center.</span></span></div>
<span style="background-color: #f7f7f7; color: #666666; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 9pt;"><br /></span>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="background-color: #f7f7f7; color: #666666; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 9pt; line-height: 13px;">What are your thoughts on </span><span style="background-color: #f7f7f7; color: #666666; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 9pt;"><b>Beijing's Olympic Green</b></span><span style="background-color: #f7f7f7; color: #666666; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 9pt; line-height: 13px;">? Did this post make you want to go and visit it too? Tell me about it by commenting below or using the Contact button on the right.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<span style="background: #F7F7F7; color: #666666; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 9.0pt; mso-bidi-font-weight: bold;"></span><br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="background-color: #f7f7f7; color: #666666; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 9pt; line-height: 13px;">If you have some questions, feel free to ask. I’ll try my best to help you out.</span></div>
</div>
Daryl | The Loft Princehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14662589755240540856noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3034097485415961847.post-2787588058099519782014-08-03T16:06:00.001+08:002014-08-03T22:27:34.913+08:00Beijing Day 1 - Learning about Chinese history and heritage at the Capital Museum<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;">
<span style="background: #F7F7F7; color: #666666; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 9.0pt; mso-bidi-font-weight: bold;">We woke up a bit late to get some sleep as we took the midnight flight
into China’s capital. Luckily for us, we
still got to avail of the breakfast buffet at the hotel which served a really
nice combination of both Asian and Western flavors. However, as it was bird flu
season during this time, we avoided all poultry dishes just to be sure.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;">
<span style="background: #F7F7F7; color: #666666; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 9.0pt; mso-bidi-font-weight: bold;">We decided to take it easy on our first day. Right after breakfast, we
explored the vicinity of the hotel to see where we can buy some necessities
like drinking water. We didn’t go far to get to the nearest 24 hour local
convenience store. There were lots of products to choose from so it was like a
mini supermarket of sorts. Great find! <o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="background: #F7F7F7; color: #666666; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 9.0pt; mso-bidi-font-weight: bold;"><br /></span>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/32777953@N02/14812052301" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" title="P5013054055e by The Loft Prince, on Flickr"><img alt="P5013054055e" height="375" src="https://farm3.staticflickr.com/2937/14812052301_a45d10213d.jpg" width="500" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">facade of Beijing's Capital Museum</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="background: #F7F7F7; color: #666666; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 9.0pt; mso-bidi-font-weight: bold;"></span></div>
</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;">
<span style="background: #F7F7F7; color: #666666; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 9.0pt; mso-bidi-font-weight: bold;">Then, we headed on to the nearest subway station to get to the Capital
Museum. Thinking it was just a few blocks away – judging from the map – we
decided to walk. Apparently, blocks here in Beijing are really wide so after 30
minutes, we were dead tired. Giving up on the idea, we just took a cab to get
to the station as it was just too much effort on foot.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;">
<br />
<a name='more'></a><br /></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;">
<span style="background: #F7F7F7; color: #666666; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 9.0pt; mso-bidi-font-weight: bold;">One funny experience about hailing a cab here in Beijing is that if you
don’t look local, you probably won’t get any. A friend of mine was actually the
one who volunteered to get us a taxi; but, unfortunately, not a single one
stopped for him. So, eventually, I was the one who got us two taxis to get to
the station.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;">
<span style="background: #F7F7F7; color: #666666; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 9.0pt; mso-bidi-font-weight: bold;">From the subway, it was an easy ride all the way up to Muxidi Station.
The fare is cheap too with only 2 CNY to any destination. Just a few minutes
away from this station is the Capital Museum.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;">
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/32777953@N02/14812766764" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" title="P5013050052e by The Loft Prince, on Flickr"><img alt="P5013050052e" height="375" src="https://farm3.staticflickr.com/2912/14812766764_16fce30b16.jpg" width="500" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">obligatory photo at the front</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;">
<span style="background: #F7F7F7; color: #666666; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 9.0pt; mso-bidi-font-weight: bold;">When we got to the museum, I got our entrance tickets by showing the
reservation form I made prior to the trip. Making a reservation is a
prerequisite because they only allow a certain number of guests each day. Given
that, please ensure you make a reservation at their website (<a href="http://www.capitalmuseum.org.cn/en/reservation.htm">http://www.capitalmuseum.org.cn/en/reservation.htm</a>) for your chosen day
of visit. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;">
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/32777953@N02/14812765284" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" title="P5013044047e by The Loft Prince, on Flickr"><img alt="P5013044047e" height="375" src="https://farm4.staticflickr.com/3883/14812765284_d7955d3555.jpg" width="500" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">at the entrance, here we go!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;">
<span style="background: #F7F7F7; color: #666666; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 9.0pt; mso-bidi-font-weight: bold;">Upon entry, you will immediately see that the place is huge. From the
brochure, there are 5,622 pieces of historical artifacts contained within this
museum. Quite a lot to see for one day I believe.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;">
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/32777953@N02/14814788192" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" title="P5012999004e by The Loft Prince, on Flickr"><img alt="P5012999004e" height="500" src="https://farm3.staticflickr.com/2913/14814788192_742697e6e9.jpg" width="375" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">such a large atrium</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;">
<span style="background: #F7F7F7; color: #666666; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 9.0pt; mso-bidi-font-weight: bold;">The strategy we used to explore the whole museum was to head towards the
top floor and work our way down. At the 5<sup>th</sup> floor is the “Old
Stories of Beijing” which showcases life sized dioramas of old Beijing folk
customs. It was really interesting to experience the past lifestyle of people
in the Chinese capital by looking at these incredible works of art. Another notable
item here is the collection of “Ancient Jade Ware” where you can marvel at the
beautifully crafted jade pieces from different eras of Chinese history.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;">
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/32777953@N02/14812751924" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" title="P5013012016e by The Loft Prince, on Flickr"><img alt="P5013012016e" height="375" src="https://farm6.staticflickr.com/5562/14812751924_d4fbe28f9c.jpg" width="500" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">old Beijing displays</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/32777953@N02/14628414380" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" title="P5013020024e by The Loft Prince, on Flickr"><img alt="P5013020024e" height="500" src="https://farm4.staticflickr.com/3856/14628414380_cf8f8238ea.jpg" width="375" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">a very intricate piece of jade artwork</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/32777953@N02/14792130666" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" title="P5013032035e by The Loft Prince, on Flickr"><img alt="P5013032035e" height="375" src="https://farm6.staticflickr.com/5582/14792130666_3883c4552e.jpg" width="500" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">life in the capital</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;">
<span style="background: #F7F7F7; color: #666666; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 9.0pt; mso-bidi-font-weight: bold;">At the 4<sup>th</sup> level, we found a fine collection of “Ancient
Buddha Statues”. There were so many that you can’t really take more time to
look at each one. Though, one quality seems to be present in all of them – each
statue was well sculpted to the smallest details. The craftsmanship placed into
making these statues is truly excellent! This is also the floor where the
“Ancient Chinaware” exhibit is located. I loved how the pieces that form part
of this collection are very diverse. Looking at these items brings you to explore
art in different periods of Chinese history.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;">
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/32777953@N02/14628460749" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" title="P5013025029e by The Loft Prince, on Flickr"><img alt="P5013025029e" height="500" src="https://farm3.staticflickr.com/2919/14628460749_879f9eb5be.jpg" width="375" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">stone statues of Buddha</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/32777953@N02/14628416310" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" title="P5013029032e by The Loft Prince, on Flickr"><img alt="P5013029032e" height="375" src="https://farm4.staticflickr.com/3903/14628416310_cca712c597.jpg" width="500" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">a whole lot more in there</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/32777953@N02/14834957613" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" title="P5013033036e by The Loft Prince, on Flickr"><img alt="P5013033036e" height="375" src="https://farm6.staticflickr.com/5578/14834957613_810bdd012b.jpg" width="500" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">these red ceramic pieces were really wonderful</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/32777953@N02/14792129486" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" title="P5013031034e by The Loft Prince, on Flickr"><img alt="P5013031034e" height="375" src="https://farm4.staticflickr.com/3874/14792129486_f27bed4450.jpg" width="500" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">yellow or gold = the color of royalty</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;">
<span style="background: #F7F7F7; color: #666666; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 9.0pt; mso-bidi-font-weight: bold;">On the 3<sup>rd</sup> floor, one can see the exhibitions on the
construction of the Ancient Capital of Beijing. Likewise, there was a
collection of “Ancient Paintings” on display here as well for visitors to
contemplate on. Going down to the 2<sup>nd</sup> floor, we get to learn more
about the capital’s ancient history and culture as well as get to explore
ancient calligraphy pieces. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;">
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/32777953@N02/14792133526" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" title="P5013038041e by The Loft Prince, on Flickr"><img alt="P5013038041e" height="500" src="https://farm4.staticflickr.com/3905/14792133526_f510dcbccf.jpg" width="375" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">artifacts of old Beijing</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/32777953@N02/14628471389" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" title="P5013043046e by The Loft Prince, on Flickr"><img alt="P5013043046e" height="500" src="https://farm4.staticflickr.com/3861/14628471389_8c5287c6b8.jpg" width="375" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">calligraphy done in ancient times</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/32777953@N02/14812762604" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" title="P5013042045e by The Loft Prince, on Flickr"><img alt="P5013042045e" height="500" src="https://farm3.staticflickr.com/2896/14812762604_df92a12c0f.jpg" width="375" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">a model showing how the old capital used to be</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;">
<span style="background: #F7F7F7; color: #666666; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 9.0pt; mso-bidi-font-weight: bold;">We ended our tour of Beijing’s Capital Museum at the ground floor
checking out the temporary exhibit of photographs relating to nature and the
environment. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;">
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/32777953@N02/14628431800" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" title="P5012997003e by The Loft Prince, on Flickr"><img alt="P5012997003e" height="375" src="https://farm4.staticflickr.com/3908/14628431800_b23dc1d09a.jpg" width="500" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">exhibit at the lobby</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;">
<span style="background: #F7F7F7; color: #666666; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 9.0pt; mso-bidi-font-weight: bold;">It took approximately 3 hours to tour the whole place. Yes, it was that
huge. We actually hurried a little bit in some exhibits since we might not see
everything before the place closes for the day. I enjoyed the experience here
at the Capital Museum because you get to really learn more about the history
and culture – not to mention see some cool artifacts which you would have never
seen anywhere else. Also, the place was well maintained and very friendly for
tourists like us. The best thing about this place is that it’s free! Just
register at the website and you immediately got a ticket. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;">
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/32777953@N02/14628456759" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" title="P5013010014e by The Loft Prince, on Flickr"><img alt="P5013010014e" height="375" src="https://farm6.staticflickr.com/5589/14628456759_afca885d34.jpg" width="500" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">regal pieces of furniture</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
</div>
<span style="background: #F7F7F7; color: #666666; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 9.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ansi-language: EN-PH; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-font-weight: bold; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-bidi; mso-fareast-font-family: "MS Mincho"; mso-fareast-language: JA; mso-fareast-theme-font: minor-fareast;">I really recommend people
visit this place when in Beijing just to experience how the capital turned out
the way it is at the present.</span><br />
<span style="background: #F7F7F7; color: #666666; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 9.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ansi-language: EN-PH; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-font-weight: bold; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-bidi; mso-fareast-font-family: "MS Mincho"; mso-fareast-language: JA; mso-fareast-theme-font: minor-fareast;"><br /></span>
<br />
<div style="margin: 0in;">
<b><span style="background-color: #f7f7f7; color: #666666; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 9pt;">How to get here:<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div style="margin: 0in;">
<span style="color: #666666; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: 12px;">Take Line 1 of the subway network and alight at Muxidi Station.</span></span><br />
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;">
<span style="background: #F7F7F7; color: #666666; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 9.0pt; mso-bidi-font-weight: bold;">Alternative ways are by Bus No. 1, No. 4, No. 52 and No. 37 to the stop “Gonghuidalou” (Labor
Union Building) and by </span><span style="background: #F7F7F7; color: #666666; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 9.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ansi-language: EN-PH; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-font-weight: bold; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-bidi; mso-fareast-font-family: "MS Mincho"; mso-fareast-language: JA; mso-fareast-theme-font: minor-fareast;">Bus No. 937, No. 727, No. 717, No. 650, No. 708, No. 26, No. 319 to the stop
Baiyun Rd.</span><o:p></o:p></div>
</div>
<span style="background-color: #f7f7f7; color: #666666; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 9pt;"><br /></span>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="background-color: #f7f7f7; color: #666666; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 9pt; line-height: 13px;">What are your thoughts on </span><span style="background-color: #f7f7f7; color: #666666; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 9pt;"><b>Beijing's Capital Museum</b></span><span style="background-color: #f7f7f7; color: #666666; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 9pt; line-height: 13px;">? Did this post make you want to go and visit it too? Tell me about it by commenting below or using the Contact button on the right.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<span style="background: #F7F7F7; color: #666666; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 9.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ansi-language: EN-PH; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-font-weight: bold; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-bidi; mso-fareast-font-family: "MS Mincho"; mso-fareast-language: JA; mso-fareast-theme-font: minor-fareast;"></span><br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="background-color: #f7f7f7; color: #666666; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 9pt; line-height: 13px;">If you have some questions, feel free to ask. I’ll try my best to help you out.</span></div>
Daryl | The Loft Princehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14662589755240540856noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3034097485415961847.post-68022390227004456272014-04-20T23:08:00.004+08:002014-04-20T23:08:35.791+08:00Hong Kong Day 4 - Joining in prayer at the Chi Lin Nunnery<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;">
<span style="background: #F7F7F7; color: #666666; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 9.0pt; mso-bidi-font-weight: bold;">Strolling around Nan Lian Garden was such a therapeutic and relaxing
experience. To add a bit more to the serene feeling, we ventured next to Chi
Lin Nunnery just across the garden. You don’t even need to trouble yourself
with crossing the street as there is a footbridge that connects both places.
Very convenient! <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;">
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/32777953@N02/13945615124" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" title="P2042254141e by The Loft Prince, on Flickr"><img alt="P2042254141e" height="375" src="https://farm6.staticflickr.com/5266/13945615124_2150ce6f70.jpg" width="500" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">temple grounds</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
</div>
<a name='more'></a><br /></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;">
<span style="background: #F7F7F7; color: #666666; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 9.0pt; mso-bidi-font-weight: bold;">Being a Buddhist temple, there are scheduled prayers and ceremonies at
this place. Nonetheless, it openly welcomes guests who want to feel a sense of
calm to enter its grounds – provided you don’t disturb the peace of the area. So,
definitely no shouting and making loud noises! Actually, just a few moments
after we got here, a ceremony started with some nuns chanting prayers in the
large temple hall. It brought about a nicer ambience which made us experience
more of what the place has to offer. </span><br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/32777953@N02/13922078902" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" title="P2042273160e by The Loft Prince, on Flickr"><img alt="P2042273160e" height="375" src="https://farm3.staticflickr.com/2926/13922078902_36d8c3ea62.jpg" width="500" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">entrance hallway</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="background: #F7F7F7; color: #666666; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 9.0pt; mso-bidi-font-weight: bold;"></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;">
<span style="background: #F7F7F7; color: #666666; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 9.0pt; mso-bidi-font-weight: bold;">This vast complex includes several temple halls, a courtyard with lotus
ponds, and a nunnery. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;">
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/32777953@N02/13922085546" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" title="P2042250137e by The Loft Prince, on Flickr"><img alt="P2042250137e" height="375" src="https://farm3.staticflickr.com/2929/13922085546_a219948fd0.jpg" width="500" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">serene lotus ponds</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;">
<span style="background: #F7F7F7; color: #666666; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 9.0pt; mso-bidi-font-weight: bold;">We took a moment gazing at the calm lotus ponds with gentle flowing waters.
Then, just quickly took a look at the different bonsai trees being displayed at
the same area. I enjoyed how the combinations of plants located here complement
each other. They were really nice to look at!<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;">
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/32777953@N02/13922068186" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" title="P2042255142e by The Loft Prince, on Flickr"><img alt="P2042255142e" height="375" src="https://farm4.staticflickr.com/3810/13922068186_d2e5588c02.jpg" width="500" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">beautiful bonsai at the courtyard</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;">
<span style="background: #F7F7F7; color: #666666; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 9.0pt; mso-bidi-font-weight: bold;">Afterwards, we went ahead into the several temple halls where we offered
a few prayers and asked for some blessings. The temple grounds were really
quiet so you can concentrate and do some meditation here for quite some time.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;">
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/32777953@N02/13945623874" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" title="P2042258145e by The Loft Prince, on Flickr"><img alt="P2042258145e" height="375" src="https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7370/13945623874_be38cb2430.jpg" width="500" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">main temple hall</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;">
<span style="background: #F7F7F7; color: #666666; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 9.0pt; mso-bidi-font-weight: bold;">Upon completing the rounds among the different halls, we went back into
the courtyard overlooking the Nan Lian Garden to see the magnificent views for
one last time before departing.</span></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/32777953@N02/13945187205" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" title="P2042249136e by The Loft Prince, on Flickr"><img alt="P2042249136e" height="375" src="https://farm4.staticflickr.com/3691/13945187205_b4901e7c78.jpg" width="500" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">view of Nan Lian Garden from Chi Lin Nunnery</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;">
<span style="background: #F7F7F7; color: #666666; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 9.0pt; mso-bidi-font-weight: bold;">Our experience here certainly was a good one! We enjoyed the place so
much that we almost took more than an hour walking around without even noticing
it. This is one place worth visiting if you happen to drop by Hong Kong. Best thing
is that the experience is free as there is no entrance fee being charged to
visitors. Just be mindful not to cause any commotion that might be considered disrespectful
or rude to the grounds.<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="background: #F7F7F7; color: #666666; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 9.0pt; mso-bidi-font-weight: bold;"><br /></span>
<br />
<div style="margin: 0in;">
<b><span style="background-color: #f7f7f7; color: #666666; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 9pt;">How to get here:<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div style="margin: 0in;">
<span style="color: #666666; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: 12px;">Take the Green Line until Diamond Hill Station and proceed to Exit C2.</span></span><br />
<span style="color: #666666; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: 12px;">Follow the marked signs that will lead you to Nan Lian Garden. Just across you will find the Chi Lin Nunnery.</span></span></div>
<span style="background-color: #f7f7f7; color: #666666; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 9pt;"><br /></span>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="background-color: #f7f7f7; color: #666666; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 9pt; line-height: 13px;">What are your thoughts on </span><span style="color: #666666; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 12px;"><b>Chi Lin Nunnery</b></span><span style="background-color: #f7f7f7; color: #666666; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 9pt; line-height: 13px;">? Did this post make you want to go and visit it too? Tell me about it by commenting below or using the Contact button on the right.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="background-color: #f7f7f7; color: #666666; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 9pt; line-height: 13px;">If you have some questions, feel free to ask. I’ll try my best to help you out.</span></div>
</div>
Daryl | The Loft Princehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14662589755240540856noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3034097485415961847.post-78528413024111920312014-03-03T10:58:00.002+08:002014-03-03T10:58:31.202+08:00Hong Kong Day 5 - Last minute shopping and grocery hunting at Causeway Bay<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;">
<span style="background: #F7F7F7; color: #666666; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 9.0pt; mso-bidi-font-weight: bold;">Staying at <b>Causeway Bay</b> has a lot of perks for those who love to
shop and window shop. There’s a wide array of everything at this place – from
high end fashion brands to street side markets. There’s so much to see, hear,
taste, and do here that one day isn’t even enough to explore. With that, we
started early as this is the last day of our stay here at the vibrant and
dynamic city of Hong Kong.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;">
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjBjfCs1nA44XW2FpLZtMXOJBiUo5pB7wZraTuBCKC9GwAXDCsUWHqhmrC1vZn9OUzeqXE9sxu1D6RyCWaDsSCPLQGs6u54KVbKNbTq9CzCSiMBVSZXJhbpSs-B-sIPkrLtBKrBlco1ahNJ/s1600/Causeway-Bay_03.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjBjfCs1nA44XW2FpLZtMXOJBiUo5pB7wZraTuBCKC9GwAXDCsUWHqhmrC1vZn9OUzeqXE9sxu1D6RyCWaDsSCPLQGs6u54KVbKNbTq9CzCSiMBVSZXJhbpSs-B-sIPkrLtBKrBlco1ahNJ/s1600/Causeway-Bay_03.jpg" height="200" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Causeway Bay at night<br />
courtesy of www.discoverhongkong.com</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<a name='more'></a><br /></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;">
<span style="background: #F7F7F7; color: #666666; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 9.0pt; mso-bidi-font-weight: bold;">Starting off at the MTR station, we went to <b>Hysan Place</b> to explore
this newly opened mall. Spanning over 17 floors, this mall has got a great
selection of more than 100 shops. The most notable ones include the following: GAP,
Hollister, collect point, eslite, French Connection, Superdry, Bauhaus, and
Apple. Apart from that, there are food places here as well so you might just
want to try the restaurants out. We kind of took our time here and actually got
to purchase great stuff from some of the stores that aren’t found back home.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;">
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj46QS2uwJpMCxoOHyHIYLNYYx79ZXheE9u2K6WMFqFdQ2070Ec7v47Vx0oQS0svDcjQwIpqDesjCywntSCt_Ho6eccXudW9TV7pIlfqmc8iUWuSGgWS0sY7sRzBn_xSg0DHmECCpo0dyBC/s1600/hysan.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj46QS2uwJpMCxoOHyHIYLNYYx79ZXheE9u2K6WMFqFdQ2070Ec7v47Vx0oQS0svDcjQwIpqDesjCywntSCt_Ho6eccXudW9TV7pIlfqmc8iUWuSGgWS0sY7sRzBn_xSg0DHmECCpo0dyBC/s1600/hysan.jpg" height="266" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">the new in place to be is at Hysan Place<br />
courtesy of www.airbnb.com</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br /></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;">
<span style="background: #F7F7F7; color: #666666; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 9.0pt; mso-bidi-font-weight: bold;">Next stop is <b>Times Square</b> just a little further up. There’s always
an interesting showcase or exhibit at the foot of this mall which gives
customers an opportunity to take a memorable snapshot. With over 10 floors of
stores, it’s also a nice place to do some shopping. Although, it’s not for
those who have a tight budget as the stores here are leaning towards the high
end of things. Some of the notable brands here are Zara, Tory Burch, Marc
Jacobs, I.T, agnes b., Calvin Klein, Lacoste, and Tommy Hilfiger. There’s also a supermarket here called city’
super at the basement where we bought some yummy grocery items to take back
home. Yup, we only bought some foodstuffs from the supermarket at this place.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;">
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_JhciBmEY9cj1CqNlPC28MHEL32Pg6__7cIH1WUi4zlydnF1prznGwVBl-LDaHQgFbaFn1TMiDhQlpaQPny9sgVrGpTVDliPiPpbnCpmhElDKsXcQj0mXSCd64Tx7t1DBhWFhL7WnrkKe/s1600/hongkong_Times_Square_shopping_center.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_JhciBmEY9cj1CqNlPC28MHEL32Pg6__7cIH1WUi4zlydnF1prznGwVBl-LDaHQgFbaFn1TMiDhQlpaQPny9sgVrGpTVDliPiPpbnCpmhElDKsXcQj0mXSCd64Tx7t1DBhWFhL7WnrkKe/s1600/hongkong_Times_Square_shopping_center.jpg" height="266" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Times Square - always happening<br />
courtesy of www.chinatourguide.com</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br /></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;">
<span style="background: #F7F7F7; color: #666666; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 9.0pt; mso-bidi-font-weight: bold;">Afterwards, we headed to <b>Lee Gardens</b> just a few blocks away. I
guess this place is reserved for those who are willing to spend a lot. Just
looking at the brands here will make you aware of that – Gucci, Bulgari,
Hermes, Louis Vuitton, and Miu Miu among others. It was just nice to browse
around the shops here to check out what’s new and in fashion.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiRBHVPAdt30dJPPMFzxVbWWmAF00w66kkZWgzD3i7xsWXvEgIIF_cnRPgqIUantBSRCWt9FnO33jJslPxDNNz6_vMuZTY3a3eD0kaZ842iQqSRfcP7M5sjqX6B5gxbwyC74L5eR60cdqWE/s1600/Lee-Gardens_03.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiRBHVPAdt30dJPPMFzxVbWWmAF00w66kkZWgzD3i7xsWXvEgIIF_cnRPgqIUantBSRCWt9FnO33jJslPxDNNz6_vMuZTY3a3eD0kaZ842iQqSRfcP7M5sjqX6B5gxbwyC74L5eR60cdqWE/s1600/Lee-Gardens_03.jpg" height="200" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">high end shopping at the Lee Gardens<br />
courtesy of www.discoverhongkong.com</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br /></div>
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<span style="background: #F7F7F7; color: #666666; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 9.0pt; mso-bidi-font-weight: bold;">Going back, we passed by a street market called <b>Jardine’s Crescent</b>.
For those bargain hunters, this seems to be the place most appealing. Though
narrow, this street has a wide selection of goods from clothing to other goods.
It’s a place for those who are great at haggling for the best prices. It’s a
nice idea to go exploring here to see if there is anything worth buying. At the
edge of this street, there’s also a wet market where you can get good deals on
flowers and fresh produce. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjwC0hfls7k8O-O26gnod42kR8-d_sdJJbcHbyoihTYFNVYMqNqdPOzwa2VSccw1LY7-D6Y2zLvrDKU4esGyUkW3lS__6mWQUbMuDtAWIh__PCYlMyyxu9CwNWGdgaL7qpvJDwQe-C63pkT/s1600/Jardine%2527s-Crescent_03.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjwC0hfls7k8O-O26gnod42kR8-d_sdJJbcHbyoihTYFNVYMqNqdPOzwa2VSccw1LY7-D6Y2zLvrDKU4esGyUkW3lS__6mWQUbMuDtAWIh__PCYlMyyxu9CwNWGdgaL7qpvJDwQe-C63pkT/s1600/Jardine%2527s-Crescent_03.jpg" height="200" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Jardine's Crescent street market<br />
courtesy of www.discoverhongkong.com</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br /></div>
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<span style="background: #F7F7F7; color: #666666; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 9.0pt; mso-bidi-font-weight: bold;">We also got some Chinese medicine from a pharmacy located along Hennessy
Road. There are actually quite a number of Chinese drugstores at this area
where you can get nice remedies for most types of ailments. However, if you
really like to consult with a Chinese medicine practitioner, there are
pharmacies which offer this kind of service – though English is quite a rare
find in these parts.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>
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<span style="background: #F7F7F7; color: #666666; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 9.0pt; mso-bidi-font-weight: bold;">Before we left for the hotel to pack-up and get to the airport, we
visited the <b>SOGO </b>Department Store. You can’t miss this one as its right
there when you get out of the MTR station at Causeway Bay. This is a really
nice department store with over 10 floors of shopping area. They have a wide
selection of food, clothing, household items, and other products which might
take your fancy. The prices here are relative depending on the brand you choose
but there are bargains to be found in each floor. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjA9MbH7A4cr6OmMF30UPYCeB_Y3XhEEXbPFZc5ULE5EEAy4NNlX0F1F22nwNtFv3RHBRuV6iQhcQExIYSaNAOltxJwdHBGUmvc3BKJrlAwNI56tQneVup2hSrDiPSSfZMS-6Uxm0evVVET/s1600/sogo.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjA9MbH7A4cr6OmMF30UPYCeB_Y3XhEEXbPFZc5ULE5EEAy4NNlX0F1F22nwNtFv3RHBRuV6iQhcQExIYSaNAOltxJwdHBGUmvc3BKJrlAwNI56tQneVup2hSrDiPSSfZMS-6Uxm0evVVET/s1600/sogo.jpg" height="265" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Sogo Department Store<br />
courtesy of www.thehkshopper.com</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
</div>
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<span style="background: #F7F7F7; color: #666666; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 9.0pt; mso-bidi-font-weight: bold;">The day in Causeway Bay was quite hectic but was really fun. Going
through the different shopping malls and streets in this area was exciting. There
was so much to see in this vibrant part of the city! Might spend more time here
the next chance I get to visit Hong Kong. I’m sure there will be something new
again to visit by then!<o:p></o:p></span><br />
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<b><span style="background-color: #f7f7f7; color: #666666; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 9pt;">How to get here:<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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<span style="color: #666666; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: 12px;">Take the Island Line and get off at Causeway Bay MTR Station.</span></span><br />
<span style="color: #666666; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: 12px;">All exits will lead you to the bustling shopping area so just take your pick.</span></span></div>
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<span style="background-color: #f7f7f7; color: #666666; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 9pt; line-height: 13px;">What are your thoughts on </span><span style="background-color: #f7f7f7; color: #666666; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 9pt;"><b>Causeway Bay</b>?</span><span style="background-color: #f7f7f7; color: #666666; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 9pt; line-height: 13px;"> Did this post make you want to go and visit it too? Tell me about it by commenting below or using the Contact button on the right.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="background-color: #f7f7f7; color: #666666; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 9pt; line-height: 13px;">If you have some questions, feel free to ask. I’ll try my best to help you out.</span><br />
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<span style="color: #666666; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: 12px; line-height: 13px;">This post ends my 5 Day journey around Asia's World City of Hong Kong. Hope you guys had a good time reading through my posts while finding some helpful information about your upcoming travels.</span></span><br />
<span style="color: #666666; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: 12px; line-height: 13px;"><br /></span></span><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: 12px; line-height: 13px;"><span style="color: #666666;">For more about my itinerary, you can follow this link: </span><a href="http://theloftprince.blogspot.com/2013/03/hong-kong-5-days-4-nights-itinerary.html"><span style="color: blue;"><b>Hong Kong - 5 Days / 4 Nights Itinerary</b></span></a></span></span><br />
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Daryl | The Loft Princehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14662589755240540856noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3034097485415961847.post-44270933820048219212014-02-09T15:47:00.000+08:002014-02-09T15:47:43.178+08:00Hong Kong Day 4 - Appreciating nature at Nan Lian Garden<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;">
<span style="background: #F7F7F7; color: #666666; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 9.0pt; mso-bidi-font-weight: bold;">It’s out and about in Kowloon for the day. Wanting to experience
something more close to nature, we paid a visit to <b>Nan Lian Garden</b>. It’s
easily accessible via the MRT network - only one MRT ride away from the city
center! <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/32777953@N02/12399675803/" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" title="P2042275162e by The Loft Prince, on Flickr"><img alt="P2042275162e" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7424/12399675803_310ff6ee00.jpg" height="500" width="375" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Nan Lian Garden gate</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<span style="background: #F7F7F7; color: #666666; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 9.0pt; mso-bidi-font-weight: bold;">Not a staple tourist attraction of Hong Kong, this place gives visitors
some space to take a breath of fresh air. It’s a very nice place to visit
especially for those folks who are already tired of the city’s noise as it
immediately gives a peaceful vibe once you enter. It felt like I just went to
an oasis of calm within the bustling metropolis.<o:p></o:p></span><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/32777953@N02/12399558605/" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" title="P2042135024e by The Loft Prince, on Flickr"><img alt="P2042135024e" src="http://farm6.staticflickr.com/5524/12399558605_1408332f95.jpg" height="375" width="500" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">long winding paths</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<span style="background: #F7F7F7; color: #666666; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 9.0pt; mso-bidi-font-weight: bold;">Designed in a Tang dynasty style, this garden covers about 35,000 square
meters in <b>Diamond Hill</b>. The sprawling hills, bodies of water, large
rocks, trees, plants, and wooden structures were all strategically placed
according to specific rules and principles. This layout actually accentuates
the nearby mountain range and towering apartment buildings very well. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/32777953@N02/12399566875/" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" title="P2042174062e by The Loft Prince, on Flickr"><img alt="P2042174062e" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7417/12399566875_4431bdfbb5.jpg" height="375" width="500" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">pavilion bridge</td></tr>
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<span style="background: #F7F7F7; color: #666666; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 9.0pt; mso-bidi-font-weight: bold;">We first visited the exhibit located near the main entrance. At that
time, it featured some facts about wooden architecture and how this type of
building was used throughout the history of China. It was fascinating to see
the scale models of temples and palaces which are made from assembling wood
pieces together – ingenious way of building without nails.</span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;">
<span style="background: #F7F7F7; color: #666666; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 9.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-bidi-font-weight: bold;">Before we explore further, here’s
some trivia first. This garden was designed based on the Jianshouju Garden blueprint.
It belonged to the governor of Jiang County in the current Shaanxi province.
Similar to its model, Nan Lian Garden uses water as the main feature while all
other things highlighting its beauty. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/32777953@N02/12399505265/" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" title="P2042183071e by The Loft Prince, on Flickr"><img alt="P2042183071e" src="http://farm3.staticflickr.com/2839/12399505265_3e5235e6d5.jpg" height="500" width="375" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">overlooking the pond</td></tr>
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<span style="background: #F7F7F7; color: #666666; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 9.0pt; mso-bidi-font-weight: bold;">After we got our fill of that, we leisurely strolled around the garden to
take in its natural beauty. I really enjoyed looking at the water features in this
place. The ponds with koi fishes are really soothing to the mind. You can stare
into the water and get lost in it. Seems like this place can make you forget
that time is passing you by so fast.<o:p></o:p></span><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/32777953@N02/12399685093/" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" title="P2042131020e by The Loft Prince, on Flickr"><img alt="P2042131020e" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7381/12399685093_b784e135d1.jpg" height="500" width="375" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">rock path</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/32777953@N02/12399649133/" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" title="P2042194082e by The Loft Prince, on Flickr"><img alt="P2042194082e" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7310/12399649133_1f21e00532.jpg" height="375" width="500" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">koi in the pond</td></tr>
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<br /></div>
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<span style="background: #F7F7F7; color: #666666; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 9.0pt; mso-bidi-font-weight: bold;">There’s also a vegetarian restaurant as well as a teahouse in here. Chi
Lin Vegetarian serves visitors sumptuous meals of the no meat kind. Definitely
not for me but I’m sure there are a lot of others who will love this place. The
menu here seems to be quite extensive!<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/32777953@N02/12399516235/" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" title="P2042195083e by The Loft Prince, on Flickr"><img alt="P2042195083e" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7322/12399516235_a4b3e54e4c.jpg" height="375" width="500" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Chi Lin Vegetarian restaurant under the falls</td></tr>
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<span style="background: #F7F7F7; color: #666666; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 9.0pt; mso-bidi-font-weight: bold;">At the center of the garden is a teahouse called Song Cha Xie. Here, you
can get to experience Chinese tea differently – a more authentic way if you
will. They serve some snacks that go along well with the tea. You’d really want
to take your time here!<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/32777953@N02/12399500145/" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" title="P2042175063e by The Loft Prince, on Flickr"><img alt="P2042175063e" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7347/12399500145_ffebd1c31b.jpg" height="375" width="500" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Song Cha Xie, the pine teahouse</td></tr>
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<span style="background: #F7F7F7; color: #666666; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 9.0pt; mso-bidi-font-weight: bold;">Next part is the Tang Gallery. This building houses the souvenir and
vegetarian snack shop. They sell a lot of good quality stuff so make sure to
check this one out. Found some interesting things like small pieces of rocks
excavated from the Red River in Guangxi, Chinese tea, paper artworks, ceramics,
pottery, and Chinese medicine. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;">
<span style="background: #F7F7F7; color: #666666; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 9.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-bidi-font-weight: bold;">Adjacent to this building is the
Rockery and Penjing Garden. There’s a permanent exhibit of large rocks from the
Red River of Guangxi province here. While at the Penjing Garden, another
permanent exhibit of miniature trees or bonsai can be found. It’s actually a
relaxing place where you can get some form of energy boost from these natural objects. <o:p></o:p></span><br />
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<div style="text-align: center;">
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/32777953@N02/12399979364/" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" title="P2042242129e by The Loft Prince, on Flickr"><img alt="P2042242129e" src="http://farm4.staticflickr.com/3780/12399979364_a0f56be62b.jpg" height="375" width="500" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">some rocks from the Red River</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="background-color: #f7f7f7; background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial; color: #666666; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 12px;"></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="background-color: #f7f7f7; background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial; color: #666666; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 12px;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/32777953@N02/12399524465/" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" title="P2042228115e by The Loft Prince, on Flickr"><img alt="P2042228115e" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7377/12399524465_5743b0d6fb.jpg" height="375" width="500" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">miniature trees</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="background-color: #f7f7f7; color: #666666; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 12px;"></span></div>
</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;">
<span style="background: #F7F7F7; color: #666666; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 9.0pt; mso-bidi-font-weight: bold;">Our visit here was a really nice experience as we were able to relax and
take our time admiring the various hues nature has to offer. Also, I like how
this place is well maintained and taken care of. All the plants here exude a
sense of freshness while the wooden structures appear as if newly built. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;">
<span style="background: #F7F7F7; color: #666666; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 9.0pt; mso-bidi-font-weight: bold;">It was really worthwhile taking time to visit this place while in Hong
Kong.<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="background: #F7F7F7; color: #666666; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 9.0pt; mso-bidi-font-weight: bold;"><br /></span>
<span style="background-color: #f7f7f7; background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial; color: #666666; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 9pt;"><b>Opening Hours:</b> 7:00 am – 9:00 pm <o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="background-color: #f7f7f7; background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial; color: #666666; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 9pt;"><br /></span>
<br />
<div style="margin: 0in;">
<b><span style="background-color: #f7f7f7; color: #666666; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 9pt;">How to get here:<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div style="margin: 0in;">
<span style="color: #666666; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: 12px;">Take the Green Line until Diamond Hill Station and proceed to Exit C2.</span></span><br />
<span style="color: #666666; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: 12px;">Follow the marked signs that will lead you to Nan Lian Garden.</span></span></div>
<span style="background-color: #f7f7f7; color: #666666; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 9pt;"><br /></span>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="background-color: #f7f7f7; color: #666666; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 9pt; line-height: 13px;">What are your thoughts on </span><span style="color: #666666; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 12px;"><b>Nan Lian Garden</b></span><span style="background-color: #f7f7f7; color: #666666; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 9pt; line-height: 13px;">? Did this post make you want to go and visit it too? Tell me about it by commenting below or using the Contact button on the right.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="background-color: #f7f7f7; color: #666666; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 9pt; line-height: 13px;">If you have some questions, feel free to ask. I’ll try my best to help you out.</span><br />
<span style="background-color: #f7f7f7; color: #666666; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 9pt; line-height: 13px;"><br /></span><span style="background-color: #f7f7f7; color: #666666; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 9pt; line-height: 13px;">Up next, </span><span style="background-color: #f7f7f7; color: #666666; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 12px;">Last minute shopping and grocery hunting at </span><b style="color: #666666; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 12px;">Causeway Bay</b><span style="color: #666666; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 12px;">.</span></div>
<span style="background: #F7F7F7; color: #666666; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 9.0pt; mso-bidi-font-weight: bold;"><br /></span>
<span style="background: #F7F7F7; color: #666666; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 9.0pt; mso-bidi-font-weight: bold;"><br /></span></div>
Daryl | The Loft Princehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14662589755240540856noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3034097485415961847.post-72002543036734051682014-01-18T01:43:00.000+08:002014-01-19T12:06:19.108+08:00Hong Kong Day 3 - Finding inner peace at the Ten Thousand Buddhas Monastery<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;">
<span style="background: #F7F7F7; color: #666666; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 9.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-bidi-font-weight: bold;">Today, we set out to the parts of
Hong Kong not frequented by many tourists – the northern part of the New
Territories. Our destination is quite a
unique one as it is quite hidden. Not in the sense that it is inaccessible but
rather because it will take a keen eye to spot its location. So, the
destination is actually the <b>Ten Thousand Buddhas Monastery</b>.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;">
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/32777953@N02/11950103083/" title="P2032044027e by The Loft Prince, on Flickr"><img alt="P2032044027e" src="http://farm4.staticflickr.com/3674/11950103083_8d1f25f945.jpg" height="375" width="500" /></a></div>
<br /></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;">
<span style="background: #F7F7F7; color: #666666; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 9.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-bidi-font-weight: bold;">Located in Sha Tin, this place
has been gaining the attention of travellers recently since many are intrigued
by its name. What’s not to be curious about finding ten thousand Buddhas all
situated in one place? <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;">
<br />
<a name='more'></a><br />
<span style="background-color: #f7f7f7; color: #666666; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 9pt;">To my surprise, it was very easy
to get here by train. Just hop on the East Rail line - the light blue line -
and get off at Sha Tin station. That easy!</span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;">
<span style="background: #F7F7F7; color: #666666; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 9.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-bidi-font-weight: bold;">Upon getting off at the station,
you can immediately spot a large mall at the exit called New Town Plaza. We
actually did a bit of exploring here after the visit from the Ten Thousand
Buddhas Monastery. It’s a really nice mall with lots of designer brands inside.
Not so sure if it was fortunate of us to come here during the End of Season
Sale period. There were just so many people inside that the mall was packed
like a can of sardines! Most of the people coming from the mainland to buy
these designer brands like there was no tomorrow! Everyone was on a shopping
spree here that it was hard to enjoy what this mall had to offer. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;">
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQwEedBTZFQgYCKgTdlr5TqhYexuIcCmvIMMeVumLBeGlt2Fnyi3Z288O92LSxCyhWU9DlVBaCDYmeIPw13i8AbPFmaiuNFdYG-UGCA9hex7oqSSexbkZ62Wc8xMn33-w7IFkCxfPvD2B7/s1600/3.2.2.26-New-Town-Plaza_03.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQwEedBTZFQgYCKgTdlr5TqhYexuIcCmvIMMeVumLBeGlt2Fnyi3Z288O92LSxCyhWU9DlVBaCDYmeIPw13i8AbPFmaiuNFdYG-UGCA9hex7oqSSexbkZ62Wc8xMn33-w7IFkCxfPvD2B7/s1600/3.2.2.26-New-Town-Plaza_03.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">New Town Plaza Mall<br />courtesy of www.discoverhongkong.com</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;">
<span style="background: #F7F7F7; color: #666666; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 9.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-bidi-font-weight: bold;">Anyway, after eating lunch at a Grand
Central Plaza – the one with an IKEA in it – we proceeded to locate our
destination. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;">
<span style="background: #F7F7F7; color: #666666; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 9.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-bidi-font-weight: bold;">The entrance to the monastery is
behind the Shatin government offices. You need to follow Sheung Wo Che Road to
reach it at the foot of a hill. Since there are no signs leading to it, it took
us quite some time to actually find it. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;">
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/32777953@N02/11949789345/" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" title="P2032111094e by The Loft Prince, on Flickr"><img alt="P2032111094e" src="http://farm4.staticflickr.com/3786/11949789345_37672a40b4.jpg" height="375" width="500" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">signage at the entrance</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
</div>
<br /></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;">
<span style="background: #F7F7F7; color: #666666; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 9.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-bidi-font-weight: bold;">At the entrance, you’d find a
long winding path that leads you uphill. Here starts the long climb up to reach
the temple area. There are 431 steps on the steep incline that you need to
conquer. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;">
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/32777953@N02/11950087733/" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" title="P2032020003e by The Loft Prince, on Flickr"><img alt="P2032020003e" src="http://farm6.staticflickr.com/5476/11950087733_f08ff0fd87.jpg" height="500" width="375" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">the long way up... climb some more</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
</div>
<br /></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;">
<span style="background: #F7F7F7; color: #666666; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 9.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-bidi-font-weight: bold;">Never mind that number, you can
take your time going up since you’ll be so distracted looking at the many
Buddha figures that line these steps. It’s so interesting because each one has
a unique facial expression. It’s worthwhile taking a look at most of them –
even posing along with them at times. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;">
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/32777953@N02/11950635336/" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" title="P2032030013e by The Loft Prince, on Flickr"><img alt="P2032030013e" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7368/11950635336_3077e33819.jpg" height="500" width="375" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">fascinating sculptures to see while climbing up</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
</div>
<br /></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;">
<span style="background: #F7F7F7; color: #666666; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 9.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-bidi-font-weight: bold;">If you do get tired, we found
some rest stops along the way where you can sit. They actually look like
waiting sheds at bus stations.<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="background: #F7F7F7; color: #666666; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 9.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-bidi-font-weight: bold;"><br /></span>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/32777953@N02/11950216664/" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" title="P2032093076e by The Loft Prince, on Flickr"><img alt="P2032093076e" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7449/11950216664_a51cfd8560.jpg" height="500" width="375" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">at one of the rest stops</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="background: #F7F7F7; color: #666666; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 9.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-bidi-font-weight: bold;"></span></div>
</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;">
<span style="background: #F7F7F7; color: #666666; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 9.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-bidi-font-weight: bold;">When you reach the top, you’ll be
greeted with a nice courtyard where the main temple is situated. There are
still many Buddhas here in the area along with other sculptures of divine
creatures that are really nice to look at.<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="background: #F7F7F7; color: #666666; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 9.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-bidi-font-weight: bold;"><br /></span>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/32777953@N02/11950055503/" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" title="P2032076059e by The Loft Prince, on Flickr"><img alt="P2032076059e" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7318/11950055503_6d500bd4bf.jpg" height="500" width="375" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">the centerpiece at the courtyard</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="background: #F7F7F7; color: #666666; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 9.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-bidi-font-weight: bold;"></span></div>
</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;">
<span style="background: #F7F7F7; color: #666666; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 9.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-bidi-font-weight: bold;">Before we continue exploring,
some history about this place. Founded in 1949 by Yuet Kai, this place was
completed in 1957. Yuet Kai, a preacher of Buddhism from China, came to Hong
Kong in 1933 and soon gained many followers. With that, he decided to build
this grand monastery and even helped in its construction despite his old age.
It was unfortunate to know that this place was severely damaged in 1997 due to
a landslide. As such, you can still see some reconstruction going on to repair
the structures and buildings until today.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;">
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/32777953@N02/8578110760/" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" title="P2032033016e by The Loft Prince, on Flickr"><img alt="P2032033016e" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8511/8578110760_ab8a828171.jpg" height="375" width="500" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">larger than life Buddha at the main temple</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
</div>
<br /></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;">
<span style="background: #F7F7F7; color: #666666; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 9.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-bidi-font-weight: bold;">If you’re not tired enough,
there’s also a pagoda here which you can climb for nice panoramic views of the
Sha Tin area. Take note that it’s 9 stories high.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;">
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/32777953@N02/11950211174/" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" title="P2032077060e by The Loft Prince, on Flickr"><img alt="P2032077060e" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7337/11950211174_6246c82e98.jpg" height="500" width="375" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">the pagoda with great views</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
</div>
<br /></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;">
<span style="background: #F7F7F7; color: #666666; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 9.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-bidi-font-weight: bold;">We proceeded to check out more of
this place by climbing another series of steps. Apparently, there are other
smaller temples and shrines up here. Images of Arhats, Kwun Yam, Luohans can be
seen here along with other Buddha figures.<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="background: #F7F7F7; color: #666666; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 9.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-bidi-font-weight: bold;"><br /></span>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/32777953@N02/11950261074/" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" title="P2032046029e by The Loft Prince, on Flickr"><img alt="P2032046029e" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7431/11950261074_5bc153bc86.jpg" height="500" width="375" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Goddess of Mercy, Kwun Yam</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="background: #F7F7F7; color: #666666; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 9.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-bidi-font-weight: bold;"></span></div>
</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;">
<span style="background: #F7F7F7; color: #666666; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 9.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-bidi-font-weight: bold;">The terrace provides a scenic
view of the hill and the city below as well. <o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="background: #F7F7F7; color: #666666; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 9.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-bidi-font-weight: bold;"><br /></span>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/32777953@N02/11949761655/" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" title="P2032066049e by The Loft Prince, on Flickr"><img alt="P2032066049e" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7427/11949761655_835529a0f3.jpg" height="375" width="500" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">at the terrace veranda with nice view of Sha Tin</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="background: #F7F7F7; color: #666666; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 9.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-bidi-font-weight: bold;"></span></div>
</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;">
<span style="background: #F7F7F7; color: #666666; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 9.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-bidi-font-weight: bold;">We stayed here for quite some
time to enjoy its peaceful environment by strolling around. We paid our
respects while getting some advice at the main temple too. Oh yeah, the walls
of the main temple are lined up with more than 12,000 miniature Buddhas which
looks really amazing. You can purchase some souvenirs at the shop here too if
you like – some lucky charms, iconic Buddhist symbols, and blessed trinkets
among others.<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="background: #F7F7F7; color: #666666; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 9.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-bidi-font-weight: bold;"><br /></span>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/32777953@N02/11950615216/" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" title="P2032100083e by The Loft Prince, on Flickr"><img alt="P2032100083e" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7358/11950615216_72a7aa29aa.jpg" height="500" width="375" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">going down refreshed in mind and spirit</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="background: #F7F7F7; color: #666666; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 9.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-bidi-font-weight: bold;"></span></div>
</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;">
<span style="background: #F7F7F7; color: #666666; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 9.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-bidi-font-weight: bold;">Visiting this place proved to be
very nice as it provided an escape from all things stressful in life. A great
way to clear the mind and heal the spirit! I highly recommend people to go here
just to meditate and relax the mind. Who knows, you might even find some
enlightenment and spiritual healing during your visit. <o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="background: #F7F7F7; color: #666666; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 9.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-bidi-font-weight: bold;"><br /></span>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/32777953@N02/11950587016/" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" title="P2032048031e by The Loft Prince, on Flickr"><img alt="P2032048031e" src="http://farm3.staticflickr.com/2892/11950587016_406fde28e8.jpg" height="500" width="375" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">meditation and serenity</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="background: #F7F7F7; color: #666666; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 9.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-bidi-font-weight: bold;"></span></div>
</div>
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<br /></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;">
<span style="background: #F7F7F7; color: #666666; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 9.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-bidi-font-weight: bold;"><b>Opening Hours:</b> 9:00 am – 5:30 pm <o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="background: #F7F7F7; color: #666666; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 9.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-bidi-font-weight: bold;"><br /></span>
<br />
<div style="margin: 0in;">
<b><span style="background-color: #f7f7f7; background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial; color: #666666; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 9pt;">How to get here:<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div style="margin: 0in;">
<span style="color: #666666; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: 12px;">Take the East Rail Line (light blue) until Sha Tin Station and proceed to Exit B.</span></span><br />
<span style="color: #666666; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: 12px;">Walk towards the street where the building with Home Square / IKEA is located.</span></span><br />
<span style="color: #666666; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: 12px;">Find </span></span><span style="background-color: #f7f7f7; color: #666666; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 12px;">Sheung Wo Che Road behind the Sha Tin Government Office building and follow its path.</span></div>
<span style="background-color: #f7f7f7; color: #666666; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 9pt;"><br /></span>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="background-color: #f7f7f7; color: #666666; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 9pt; line-height: 13px;">What are your thoughts on Ten Thousand Buddhas Monastery? Did this post make you want to go and visit it too? Tell me about it by commenting below or using the Contact button on the right.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="background-color: #f7f7f7; color: #666666; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 9pt; line-height: 13px;">If you have some questions, feel free to ask. I’ll try my best to help you out.</span><br />
<span style="background-color: #f7f7f7; color: #666666; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 9pt; line-height: 13px;"><br /></span>
<span style="background-color: #f7f7f7; color: #666666; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 9pt; line-height: 13px;">Up next, </span><span style="background-color: #f7f7f7; color: #666666; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 12px;">Appreciating nature at </span><b style="color: #666666; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 12px;">Nan Lian Garden</b><span style="color: #666666; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 12px;">.</span></div>
</div>
Daryl | The Loft Princehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14662589755240540856noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3034097485415961847.post-17902980541662875712014-01-04T16:03:00.001+08:002014-01-04T16:06:10.708+08:00Hong Kong Day 2 - Enjoying the seaside atmosphere at Stanley Bay<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;">
<span style="background: #F7F7F7; color: #666666; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 9.0pt; mso-bidi-font-weight: bold;">If you think Hong Kong is just all about the hustle and bustle of the
city, then you haven’t been exploring hard enough. There are so many places
here where you can get a relaxing vibe – places where you can actually slow
down and enjoy the sights at a leisurely pace.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;">
<br /></div>
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<span style="background: #F7F7F7; color: #666666; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 9.0pt; mso-bidi-font-weight: bold;">One of those places is <b>Stanley Bay</b>. Located on the south side of
Hong Kong Island, this place is likely to transport you to a side of Hong Kong
you didn’t think would exist. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="background: #F7F7F7; color: #666666; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 9.0pt; mso-bidi-font-weight: bold;"><br /></span></div>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/32777953@N02/8577009407/" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" title="P2021978090e by The Loft Prince, on Flickr"><img alt="P2021978090e" height="375" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8101/8577009407_1def879669.jpg" width="500" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">small boats around Blake Pier</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<span style="background: #F7F7F7; color: #666666; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 9.0pt; mso-bidi-font-weight: bold;"></span></div>
<a name='more'></a><br />
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<span style="background: #F7F7F7; color: #666666; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 9.0pt; mso-bidi-font-weight: bold;">It was fairly easy getting to this place. Just one bus ride away from
Central and you’d get here in about 30 minutes. The views you will get from the
bus ride will be nice to the eyes. You’ll start out with tall skyscrapers of
Central, head on to the low rise residential buildings of Wanchai, and onwards
be greeted by cliffs and the sea once you near the south side of Hong Kong
Island. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;">
<span style="background: #F7F7F7; color: #666666; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 9.0pt; mso-bidi-font-weight: bold;">When we got off the bus, we took the time to explore the area. As the
main attraction here is the bay itself, we just leisurely walked along the
boardwalk. The cold breeze from the sea was really nice – a bit of fresh air to
escape the one you can normally find in cities.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;">
<span style="background: #F7F7F7; color: #666666; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 9.0pt; mso-bidi-font-weight: bold;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="margin: 0in 0in 0.0001pt; text-align: center;">
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/32777953@N02/11747066434/" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" title="P2021926038e by The Loft Prince, on Flickr"><img alt="P2021926038e" height="375" src="http://farm4.staticflickr.com/3823/11747066434_3cdd66a5e6.jpg" width="500" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">view of Stanley Main Street</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;">
<span style="background: #F7F7F7; color: #666666; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 9.0pt; mso-bidi-font-weight: bold;">There was also a market area (<b>Stanley Market</b>) that sells lots of
different stuff here. You can get your usual souvenirs – key chains, magnets,
and I love Hong Kong T-shirts among others. However, there are more unique
souvenirs that you might want to consider purchasing. Let’s say a Chinese chop.
What is it exactly? It’s actually a seal with your name on it. If you don’t
have a Chinese name, they’ll translate your English one for you. It’s a really
nice item to bring home to remember this place by. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-2tfIYndonIk5Mpv8HFT6XZF50Tf9RF44TrGpcjS_f3me_ySfHghDSXTbWaXRcg06DZ_HRlVdsl4MZSRJkWRHhvGrSrC84TTj-VB1zcl5GBfg6mXc9yMRPkBrDKy-g-Vhc7a4byZV9s07/s1600/Hong-Kong-Stanley-Market-edwin11.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-2tfIYndonIk5Mpv8HFT6XZF50Tf9RF44TrGpcjS_f3me_ySfHghDSXTbWaXRcg06DZ_HRlVdsl4MZSRJkWRHhvGrSrC84TTj-VB1zcl5GBfg6mXc9yMRPkBrDKy-g-Vhc7a4byZV9s07/s400/Hong-Kong-Stanley-Market-edwin11.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Stanley Market<br />
courtesy of www.chinatravelca.com photo by <em style="background-color: white; border: 0px; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 12px; line-height: 15px; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/people/edwin11/" style="border: 0px; color: #eb1c40; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; text-decoration: none;" target="_blank">“Edwin.11″</a></em></td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgRYomslkQ7iAhSlIhE-TibExYQb6ECplg-ozPp_Fh6b53mXTJf78foeBZeyXebQdJWb3ZIe9Aw86ed5xKtQTSdRSoLaEdoQxr2Ob52aKZwauORlKa3kLeAMmgsUoXao1fHubI0vkflatlY/s1600/the-chop-man-2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="263" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgRYomslkQ7iAhSlIhE-TibExYQb6ECplg-ozPp_Fh6b53mXTJf78foeBZeyXebQdJWb3ZIe9Aw86ed5xKtQTSdRSoLaEdoQxr2Ob52aKZwauORlKa3kLeAMmgsUoXao1fHubI0vkflatlY/s400/the-chop-man-2.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Chinese chops<br />
courtesy of www.southside.hk</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="background: #F7F7F7; color: #666666; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 9.0pt; mso-bidi-font-weight: bold;"><o:p><br /></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;">
<span style="background: #F7F7F7; color: #666666; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 9.0pt; mso-bidi-font-weight: bold;">On the far side near the market, there’s a terrace where you can get
great views of the harbour. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin: 0in 0in 0.0001pt; text-align: center;">
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/32777953@N02/11747419086/" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" title="P2021933045e by The Loft Prince, on Flickr"><img alt="P2021933045e" height="375" src="http://farm4.staticflickr.com/3690/11747419086_329ab4329e.jpg" width="500" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">rock formations at the edge of Stanley Main Street</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<span style="background-color: #f7f7f7; background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial; font-size: 12px;"><o:p><span style="color: #666666; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;">
<span style="background: #F7F7F7; color: #666666; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 9.0pt; mso-bidi-font-weight: bold;">It’s nice to visit the <b>Blake Pier</b> as well. Here, you can actually
ride on some ferries to get you towards the neighbouring areas – Aberdeen and
Po Toi Island. However, we didn’t really intend to go somewhere else so we just
observed some of the ferries come and go while appreciating the good views of
the sea. I really loved feeling the cold breeze and hearing the waves at this
spot – very soothing and relaxing. One trivia about this place was that it was
originally located in Central before a modern one was built dring the 1960s.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;">
<span style="background: #F7F7F7; color: #666666; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 9.0pt; mso-bidi-font-weight: bold;"><o:p><br /></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin: 0in 0in 0.0001pt; text-align: center;">
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/32777953@N02/11746627665/" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" title="P2021982094e by The Loft Prince, on Flickr"><img alt="P2021982094e" height="500" src="http://farm4.staticflickr.com/3695/11746627665_7c182ed4ca.jpg" width="375" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">entrance of Blake Pier</td></tr>
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</div>
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<br /></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;">
<span style="background: #F7F7F7; color: #666666; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 9.0pt; mso-bidi-font-weight: bold;">Right beside the pier is the <b>Murray House</b>. Named after Sir George
Murray, this Victorian building dating back to 1844 was originally in Central.
It was used as the barracks of British military soldiers until the 1960s. It
ended here at Stanley Bay in 1999 after giving up its original location for the
construction of the Bank of China tower during the 1980s. Currently, there are
some restaurants that occupy the Murray House. If you decide to dine here, you
can have great views of the harbour as well as the town proper.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;">
<span style="background: #F7F7F7; color: #666666; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 9.0pt; mso-bidi-font-weight: bold;"><o:p><br /></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin: 0in 0in 0.0001pt; text-align: center;">
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/32777953@N02/11746898423/" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" title="P2021927039e by The Loft Prince, on Flickr"><img alt="P2021927039e" height="375" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7314/11746898423_a435a48bf2.jpg" width="500" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Murray House from a distance</td></tr>
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</div>
<div style="margin: 0in 0in 0.0001pt; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;">
<span style="background: #F7F7F7; color: #666666; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 9.0pt; mso-bidi-font-weight: bold;">If you don’t fancy any of the restaurants at the Murray House, you might
want to check out those that offer alfresco dining at the <b>Stanley Main
Street</b>. With many of the restaurants having seafood specialities, surely
you’ll have a great dining experience at one of them. Great views of the sunset
as well if you happen to go during dinnertime.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;">
<span style="background: #F7F7F7; color: #666666; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 9.0pt; mso-bidi-font-weight: bold;"><o:p><br /></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin: 0in 0in 0.0001pt; text-align: center;">
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/32777953@N02/11747083594/" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" title="P2021974086e by The Loft Prince, on Flickr"><img alt="P2021974086e" height="500" src="http://farm4.staticflickr.com/3809/11747083594_5696173e6b.jpg" width="375" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">restaurants lined up at Stanley Main Street</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
</div>
<div style="margin: 0in 0in 0.0001pt; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;">
<span style="background: #F7F7F7; color: #666666; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 9.0pt; mso-bidi-font-weight: bold;">It’s worth checking out <b>Stanley Plaza</b> if you have time to spare.
There are some speciality shops here that are interesting to look at. There are
also some restaurants that have good food selections. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;">
<span style="background: #F7F7F7; color: #666666; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 9.0pt; mso-bidi-font-weight: bold;"><o:p><br /></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin: 0in 0in 0.0001pt; text-align: center;">
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/32777953@N02/11746880063/" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" title="P2022005117e by The Loft Prince, on Flickr"><img alt="P2022005117e" height="375" src="http://farm4.staticflickr.com/3823/11746880063_7ce7a1c877.jpg" width="500" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Stanley Plaza</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
</div>
<div style="margin: 0in 0in 0.0001pt; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;">
<span style="background: #F7F7F7; color: #666666; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 9.0pt; mso-bidi-font-weight: bold;">I think I’ll never get hungry here at Stanley Bay. So many choices! It’s
a matter of how to try them all. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>
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<span style="background: #F7F7F7; color: #666666; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 9.0pt; mso-bidi-font-weight: bold;">Anyway, there is also a good veranda area here worth checking out. You
can clearly see the whole bay area from above here. Good picture spot as well
for those who want to capture a bird’s eye view of the whole place. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/32777953@N02/11747401926/" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" title="P2022017129e by The Loft Prince, on Flickr"><img alt="P2022017129e" height="375" src="http://farm4.staticflickr.com/3702/11747401926_4762a91d95.jpg" width="500" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">view from the top of Stanley Plaza</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
</div>
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<span style="background-color: #f7f7f7; background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial; font-size: 12px;"><o:p><span style="color: #666666; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="background: #F7F7F7; color: #666666; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 9.0pt; mso-bidi-font-weight: bold;">Staying at Stanley Bay for the whole afternoon proved to be worthwhile.
We were able to experience the laidback side of Hong Kong and get a break from
the busy city life. I would probably go back here again just to relax and
experience alfresco dining while feeling the cool sea breeze. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="background: #F7F7F7; color: #666666; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 9.0pt; mso-bidi-font-weight: bold;"><o:p> </o:p></span><span style="background-color: #f7f7f7; color: #666666; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 9pt;"> </span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;">
<b><span style="background: #F7F7F7; color: #666666; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 9.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">How to get here:<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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<span style="background: #F7F7F7; color: #666666; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 9.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-bidi-font-weight: bold;">Bus 6, 6A, 6X, 66, 260 from
Exchange Square Bus Terminal (Hong Kong Station Exit D)<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<span style="background-color: #f7f7f7; color: #666666; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 9pt;">Get off at Stanley Plaza or at
Stanley Market.</span><br />
<span style="background-color: #f7f7f7; color: #666666; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 9pt;"><br /></span>
<br />
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<span style="background-color: #f7f7f7; background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial; color: #666666; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 9pt; line-height: 13px;">What are your thoughts on Stanley Bay? Did this post make you want to go and visit it too? Tell me about it by commenting below or using the Contact button on the right.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="background-color: #f7f7f7; background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial; color: #666666; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 9pt; line-height: 13px;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="background-color: #f7f7f7; background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial; color: #666666; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 9pt; line-height: 13px;">If you have some questions, feel free to ask. I’ll try my best to help you out.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="background-color: #f7f7f7; background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial; color: #666666; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 9pt; line-height: 13px;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<span style="background-color: #f7f7f7; background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial; color: #666666; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 9pt;">Up next, </span><span style="background: #F7F7F7; color: #666666; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 9.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ansi-language: EN-PH; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-bidi; mso-fareast-font-family: "MS Mincho"; mso-fareast-language: JA; mso-fareast-theme-font: minor-fareast;">Finding inner peace at
the<span class="apple-converted-space"> </span><b>Ten Thousand Buddhas
Monastery</b></span><span style="background-color: #f7f7f7; background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial; color: #666666; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 9pt;"><span class="apple-converted-space">.</span></span></div>
Daryl | The Loft Princehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14662589755240540856noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3034097485415961847.post-48712372695821174682013-09-14T13:08:00.000+08:002013-09-14T13:08:20.108+08:00Taipei, Taiwan - 4 Days / 3 Nights Itinerary<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;">
<span style="background: #F7F7F7; color: #666666; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 9.0pt; mso-bidi-font-weight: bold;">Another one of my summer trips was the one in Taipei, Taiwan. I actually
thought that I would not be able to go through with this one due to some
unforeseen circumstances. However, with pure determination and a little bit of
luck, I managed to go ahead with it anyway. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/32777953@N02/9737598631/" title="P5163377011e by The Loft Prince, on Flickr"><img alt="P5163377011e" height="500" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7295/9737598631_ab28ab6055.jpg" width="375" /></a></div>
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<span style="background: #F7F7F7; color: #666666; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 9.0pt; mso-bidi-font-weight: bold;">As I did not have much time to plan out this trip, my itinerary started
out to be a list of places I wanted to visit. In any case, I survived
throughout this trip with just that. Ticking out more places than I had
expected – also, visiting some areas that are not even part of my list! <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/32777953@N02/9739811730/" title="P5163431022e by The Loft Prince, on Flickr"><img alt="P5163431022e" height="500" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7425/9739811730_fc0d8383cb.jpg" width="375" /></a></div>
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<a name='more'></a><br /></div>
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<span style="background: #F7F7F7; color: #666666; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 9.0pt; mso-bidi-font-weight: bold;">Being a first timer in this city, I enjoyed what the city has to offer. With
a very modern transportation system, it was very easy to go around. Also, I
like how the place still exudes a relaxing atmosphere even if it is a bustling
metropolis. Of course, that is only my observation – others might find it hard
to believe and think otherwise.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/32777953@N02/9737580803/" title="P5173483004e by The Loft Prince, on Flickr"><img alt="P5173483004e" height="375" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7352/9737580803_f24b25aed9.jpg" width="500" /></a></div>
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<span style="background: #F7F7F7; color: #666666; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 9.0pt; mso-bidi-font-weight: bold;">Taipei has a lot of attractions to offer tourists, especially to those
who like visiting temples and street markets. I think it could Bangkok in terms
of temples and Hong Kong in terms of street markets. There are literally so
many temples and street markets scattered around. I actually went to a few of
these during my stay. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/32777953@N02/9739792198/" title="P5173510007e by The Loft Prince, on Flickr"><img alt="P5173510007e" height="375" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7400/9739792198_62572d7b39.jpg" width="500" /></a></div>
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<br /></div>
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<span style="background: #F7F7F7; color: #666666; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 9.0pt; mso-bidi-font-weight: bold;">Anyway, here’s how my actual itinerary ended up like:<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<b><span style="background: #F7F7F7; color: #666666; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 9.0pt;">Day 1:<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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<span style="background: #F7F7F7; color: #666666; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 9.0pt; mso-bidi-font-weight: bold;">Saw the “Father of the Nation” at the <b>Sun Yat Sen Memorial Hall<o:p></o:p></b></span></div>
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<span style="background: #F7F7F7; color: #666666; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 9.0pt; mso-bidi-font-weight: bold;">Learning some philosophical thoughts at the <b>Confucious Temple<o:p></o:p></b></span></div>
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<span style="background: #F7F7F7; color: #666666; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 9.0pt; mso-bidi-font-weight: bold;">Silent reflections at the <b>Dalongdong Bao’an Temple<o:p></o:p></b></span></div>
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<span style="background: #F7F7F7; color: #666666; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 9.0pt; mso-bidi-font-weight: bold;">Going with the crowds at <b>Ximending Shopping Street<o:p></o:p></b></span></div>
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<br /></div>
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<b><span style="background: #F7F7F7; color: #666666; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 9.0pt;">Day 2:<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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<span style="background: #F7F7F7; color: #666666; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 9.0pt; mso-bidi-font-weight: bold;">Praying with the locals at <b>Longhsan Temple<o:p></o:p></b></span></div>
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<span style="background: #F7F7F7; color: #666666; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 9.0pt; mso-bidi-font-weight: bold;">Enjoying the scenic views at <b>Tamsui District<o:p></o:p></b></span></div>
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<b><span style="background: #F7F7F7; color: #666666; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 9.0pt;">Day 3:<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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<span style="background: #F7F7F7; color: #666666; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 9.0pt; mso-bidi-font-weight: bold;">Looking up at the <b>Taipei 101<o:p></o:p></b></span></div>
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<span style="background: #F7F7F7; color: #666666; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 9.0pt; mso-bidi-font-weight: bold;">Faced the General at the <b>Chiang Kai Shek Memorial Hall<o:p></o:p></b></span></div>
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<span style="background: #F7F7F7; color: #666666; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 9.0pt; mso-bidi-font-weight: bold;">Viewing the cityscape at <b>Elephant Hill<o:p></o:p></b></span></div>
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<b><span style="background: #F7F7F7; color: #666666; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 9.0pt;">Day 4:<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;">
<span style="background: #F7F7F7; color: #666666; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 9.0pt; mso-bidi-font-weight: bold;">Encountered nice animals at the <b>Taipei Zoo<o:p></o:p></b></span></div>
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<span style="background: #F7F7F7; color: #666666; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 9.0pt; mso-bidi-font-weight: bold;">Looking for good finds at <b>Taipei Main Station<o:p></o:p></b></span></div>
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<span style="background: #F7F7F7; color: #666666; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 9.0pt; mso-bidi-font-weight: bold;">Strolling and shopping around <b>Miramar Entertainment Park<o:p></o:p></b></span></div>
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<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/32777953@N02/9739798974/" title="P5193780001e by The Loft Prince, on Flickr"><img alt="P5193780001e" height="375" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7449/9739798974_f4984f9eaf.jpg" width="500" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
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<span style="background: #F7F7F7; color: #666666; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 9.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: ZH-CN;">I’ll be going into
the details of my Taipei trip in the succeeding posts so watch out for it!</span><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 9pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/32777953@N02/9739804276/" title="P5193794015e by The Loft Prince, on Flickr"><img alt="P5193794015e" height="375" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7341/9739804276_09b88aea20.jpg" width="500" /></a></div>
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Which part of this itinerary did you like best so far? Tell me about it by
commenting below or using the Contact button on the right. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
Daryl | The Loft Princehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14662589755240540856noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3034097485415961847.post-41765997883469615022013-08-07T12:37:00.001+08:002013-08-07T12:37:17.585+08:00Seoul Day 5 – Enjoying the traditional houses at Bukchon Hanok Village<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<span style="background: #F7F7F7; color: #666666; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 9.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: ZH-CN;">During my last day
in Seoul, I decided to explore the area most close to where I was staying. I
intentionally slid this to the back of my itinerary as it was just there. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
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<span style="background: #F7F7F7; color: #666666; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 9.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: ZH-CN;">It was really cold
today as the wind coming from the mountains was quite strong. The surroundings
felt gloomy as well since the sun didn’t show up from behind the clouds. Though
that was the case, I still went on to walk around the narrow streets that wind
about Bukchon Hanok Village.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/32777953@N02/9453252874/" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" title="PB081521035e by The Loft Prince, on Flickr"><img alt="PB081521035e" height="500" src="http://farm4.staticflickr.com/3669/9453252874_64b606728e.jpg" width="375" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">narrow streets at Bukchon Hanok Village</td></tr>
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<a name='more'></a><br /></div>
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<span style="background: #F7F7F7; color: #666666; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 9.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: ZH-CN;">The day before, I
got a map of this place from the Visitor Information Center. It was really
helpful since it shows you the scenic picture spots of the village. It also
showcases the things that you can do while roaming the village. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/32777953@N02/8239530795/" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" title="PB061176133e by The Loft Prince, on Flickr"><img alt="PB061176133e" height="375" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8198/8239530795_c4772f178e.jpg" width="500" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">a typical traditional house</td></tr>
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<div style="text-align: center;">
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<span style="background: #F7F7F7; color: #666666; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 9.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: ZH-CN;">I took my time in
wandering around this traditional village to enjoy the serene environment. I
came to a nice spot after a long uphill climb which showed great views. From
here, you can see Mt. Bukhansan with its autumn colors – a sight worth seeing!
Also, you can catch good views of the Samcheongdong neighborhood below from
this spot.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/32777953@N02/9450446983/" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" title="PB081487001e by The Loft Prince, on Flickr"><img alt="PB081487001e" height="375" src="http://farm6.staticflickr.com/5517/9450446983_5e2b9aa149.jpg" width="500" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">view of Samcheongdong and Mt. Bukhansan</td></tr>
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<br /></div>
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<span style="background: #F7F7F7; color: #666666; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 9.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: ZH-CN;">Continuing on, I
walked towards the inside of the village where the residential houses are. As
several families go about their daily lives here, tourists are advised to keep
to themselves and not make so much noise. The houses are really nicely
maintained in this area. It makes you feel how Seoul must have looked like a
few hundred years ago. I enjoyed the long walk around this part as you get to
feel like you are part of the town. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/32777953@N02/9450459923/" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" title="PB081500014e by The Loft Prince, on Flickr"><img alt="PB081500014e" height="500" src="http://farm6.staticflickr.com/5492/9450459923_f882b0fd5e.jpg" width="375" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">one of the traditional houses</td></tr>
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place is quite hilly. Better prepare some stamina before going to endure the
steep climbs in some areas. Also, wear comfortable shoes to prevent from
slipping when going downhill. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/32777953@N02/9450453409/" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" title="PB081491005e by The Loft Prince, on Flickr"><img alt="PB081491005e" height="375" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7321/9450453409_b4f1a7af55.jpg" width="500" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Downhill View of Bukchon Hanok Village</td></tr>
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this area for quite some time, I went ahead to explore a different spot. There
are many shops here that line the narrow streets – specifically, workshops. Those
who love traditional arts and crafts will definitely enjoy this place. For just
a minimal fee, you get to try your hand on making some of them – perfect one of
a kind souvenir if you ask me! <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/32777953@N02/9450440299/" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" title="PB081524038e by The Loft Prince, on Flickr"><img alt="PB081524038e" height="500" src="http://farm3.staticflickr.com/2877/9450440299_1cd6aaedd0.jpg" width="375" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Embroidery Workshop</td></tr>
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browsing around these shops, I noticed that it was already noon. Since I was
supposed to meet some friends over at a different place for lunch, I ended the
sightseeing and proceeded to the nearest subway station. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/32777953@N02/9453246962/" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" title="PB081518032e by The Loft Prince, on Flickr"><img alt="PB081518032e" height="500" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7333/9453246962_22f0feddb8.jpg" width="375" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Knot Workshop</td></tr>
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<span style="background: #F7F7F7; color: #666666; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 9.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: ZH-CN;">I had a great time
going around Bukchon Hanok Village. I learned some new things about the local
lifestyle of the Koreans who live in this area. Also, I gained insight on some
of their traditional arts & crafts. Lovely place! Definitely worth another
visit if I get the chance to go back to Seoul! <o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="background: #F7F7F7; color: #666666; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 9.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: ZH-CN;"><br /></span>
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<span style="background-color: #f7f7f7; background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial; color: #666666; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 9pt; line-height: 13px;">What are your thoughts on Bukchon Hanok Village? Did this post make you want to go and visit it too? Tell me about it by commenting below or using the Contact button on the right.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<span style="background-color: #f7f7f7; color: #666666; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 9pt; line-height: 13px;"><br /></span>
<span style="background-color: #f7f7f7; color: #666666; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 9pt; line-height: 13px;">If you have some questions, feel free to ask. I’ll try my best to help you out.</span><br />
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<span style="color: #666666; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: 12px; line-height: 13px;">This post concludes my 5 Day journey around Seoul, South Korea. Hope you guys had a good time reading through my posts while finding some helpful information about your upcoming travels.</span></span><br />
<span style="color: #666666; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: 12px; line-height: 13px;"><br /></span></span>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: 12px; line-height: 13px;"><span style="color: #666666;">For more about my itinerary, you can follow this link: </span><a href="http://theloftprince.blogspot.com/2012/12/seoul-south-korea-5-days-4-nights.html"><span style="color: blue;"><b>Seoul, South Korea - 5 Days / 4 Night Itinerary</b></span></a></span></span></div>
Daryl | The Loft Princehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14662589755240540856noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3034097485415961847.post-24896529213456730092013-07-02T10:52:00.000+08:002013-07-14T11:20:57.686+08:00Beijing, China - 5 Days / 4 Nights Itinerary<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;">
<span style="background: #F7F7F7; color: #666666; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 9.0pt; mso-bidi-font-weight: bold;">During the Labor Day holidays, some colleagues and I went to Beijing,
China for a well-deserved vacation.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="background: #F7F7F7; color: #666666; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 9.0pt; mso-bidi-font-weight: bold;">It was my first time to visit the city and I found so many interesting
things to do here. The experience was very much enjoyable due to the spring
weather. It was very easy to explore around with the cool atmosphere. The city
was filled with beautiful colors as well thanks to the sprouting greens and
blooming flowers everywhere. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="background: #F7F7F7; color: #666666; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 9.0pt; mso-bidi-font-weight: bold;"><o:p><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/32777953@N02/9187236543/" title="P5023145054e by The Loft Prince, on Flickr"><img alt="P5023145054e" height="375" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7384/9187236543_0c95eb05bb.jpg" width="500" /></a></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="background: #F7F7F7; color: #666666; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 9.0pt; mso-bidi-font-weight: bold;">Another thing I appreciated about this city was the mixture of the past
and present. Amidst the urban cityscape, there are so many things that are
reminiscent of the city’s traditional history and culture. It was actually a
pleasant surprise to experience these during my visit.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="background: #F7F7F7; color: #666666; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 9.0pt; mso-bidi-font-weight: bold;"><o:p><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/32777953@N02/9187267685/" title="P5013074073e by The Loft Prince, on Flickr"><img alt="P5013074073e" height="375" src="http://farm3.staticflickr.com/2875/9187267685_7ff136077e.jpg" width="500" /></a></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="background: #F7F7F7; color: #666666; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 9.0pt; mso-bidi-font-weight: bold;">This is what our actual itinerary looked like. I tried my best to have
this trip as chill and relaxing as possible by limiting the number of
attractions to visit. My friends and I didn’t want to end up getting too tired
from this vacation – like the ones we had before a few years back.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<b><span style="background: #F7F7F7; color: #666666; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 9.0pt;">Day 1:<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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<span style="background: #F7F7F7; color: #666666; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 9.0pt; mso-bidi-font-weight: bold;">Learning about Chinese history and heritage at the <b>Capital Museum</b><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="background: #F7F7F7; color: #666666; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 9.0pt; mso-bidi-font-weight: bold;">Reliving the Olympic spirit at the <b>Olympic Sports Center<o:p></o:p></b></span></div>
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<b><span style="background: #F7F7F7; color: #666666; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 9.0pt;">Day 2:<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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<span style="background: #F7F7F7; color: #666666; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 9.0pt; mso-bidi-font-weight: bold;">Exploring the vast complex of the <b>Ming Tombs</b><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="background: #F7F7F7; color: #666666; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 9.0pt; mso-bidi-font-weight: bold;">Hiking around the <b>Great Wall of China<o:p></o:p></b></span></div>
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<span style="background: #F7F7F7; color: #666666; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 9.0pt; mso-bidi-font-weight: bold;">Going through the street markets at <b>Wangfujing</b><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<b><span style="background: #F7F7F7; color: #666666; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 9.0pt;">Day 3:<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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<span style="background: #F7F7F7; color: #666666; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 9.0pt; mso-bidi-font-weight: bold;">Enjoying the morning calm at the <b>Temple of Heaven<o:p></o:p></b></span></div>
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<span style="background: #F7F7F7; color: #666666; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 9.0pt; mso-bidi-font-weight: bold;">Going through the hustle and bustle in the<b> Forbidden City<o:p></o:p></b></span></div>
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<span style="background: #F7F7F7; color: #666666; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 9.0pt; mso-bidi-font-weight: bold;">Relaxing in the afternoon by the <b>Summer Palace</b><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="background: #F7F7F7; color: #666666; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 9.0pt; mso-bidi-font-weight: bold;">Admiring the sunset at the<b> National Center for Performaing Arts<o:p></o:p></b></span></div>
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<b><span style="background: #F7F7F7; color: #666666; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 9.0pt;">Day 4:<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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<span style="background: #F7F7F7; color: #666666; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 9.0pt; mso-bidi-font-weight: bold;">Catching the Peach Blossom Festival at the <b>Beijing Botanical Gardens<o:p></o:p></b></span></div>
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<span style="background: #F7F7F7; color: #666666; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 9.0pt; mso-bidi-font-weight: bold;">Viewing the city from the top at <b>Jingshan Park<o:p></o:p></b></span></div>
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<span style="background: #F7F7F7; color: #666666; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 9.0pt; mso-bidi-font-weight: bold;">Strolling the shopping streets of<b> Xidan<o:p></o:p></b></span></div>
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<b><span style="background: #F7F7F7; color: #666666; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 9.0pt;">Day 5:<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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<span style="background: #F7F7F7; color: #666666; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 9.0pt; mso-bidi-font-weight: bold;">Experiencing serenity at the<b> Confucius Temple<o:p></o:p></b></span></div>
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<span style="background: #F7F7F7; color: #666666; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 9.0pt; mso-bidi-font-weight: bold;">Walking through the famous<b> Tiananmen Square<o:p></o:p></b></span></div>
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<span style="background: #F7F7F7; color: #666666; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 9.0pt; mso-bidi-font-weight: bold;">Last minute shopping at <b>Xidan<o:p></o:p></b></span></div>
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<span style="background: #F7F7F7; color: #666666; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 9.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: ZH-CN;">I’ll be going into
the details of my Beijing trip in the succeeding posts so watch out for it!</span><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 9pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="color: #666666; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: 12px;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/32777953@N02/9190056296/" title="P5043274168e by The Loft Prince, on Flickr"><img alt="P5043274168e" height="375" src="http://farm4.staticflickr.com/3787/9190056296_89b55d3e41.jpg" width="500" /></a></span></span></div>
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<span style="color: #666666; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: 12px;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/32777953@N02/9190042400/" title="P5033236135e by The Loft Prince, on Flickr"><img alt="P5033236135e" height="500" src="http://farm6.staticflickr.com/5549/9190042400_7d0238ea5b.jpg" width="375" /></a></span></span></div>
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Which part of this itinerary did you like best so far? Tell me about it by
commenting below or using the Contact button on the right. </span><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 9pt;"><o:p></o:p></span>Daryl | The Loft Princehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14662589755240540856noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3034097485415961847.post-66505068791497953212013-06-01T15:35:00.003+08:002013-08-09T22:39:56.080+08:00Seoul Day 4 - Learning political history in Sarangchae at Cheongwadae President Museum<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<span class="apple-converted-space"><span style="background: #F7F7F7; color: #666666; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 9.0pt;">Continuing
the morning tour, we headed on to <b>Sarangchae
at Cheongwadae</b>. Here, you can learn so much about Korea’s modern history. With
various exhibitions that showcase Korea’s past presidents and their
corresponding political policies, this is the place to visit for all you folks
who love to keep up with governments.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhDFH_7nf935Pny_MT9uXe7iAzuzMyW4C8wAmrU_SvuePEDJWv7LQJFchVZemAWKbqDD_4L6ZkX_5Sszp2BLVhBW8T50w21diO5Zjiiy_dVna9vAQhs2BOE41huNTrf7mKE9tokZvp6p0MU/s1600/sarangchae00.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="166" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhDFH_7nf935Pny_MT9uXe7iAzuzMyW4C8wAmrU_SvuePEDJWv7LQJFchVZemAWKbqDD_4L6ZkX_5Sszp2BLVhBW8T50w21diO5Zjiiy_dVna9vAQhs2BOE41huNTrf7mKE9tokZvp6p0MU/s400/sarangchae00.png" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">facade of Sarangchae<br />
courtesy of http://www.english.president.go.kr </td></tr>
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<span class="apple-converted-space"><span style="background: #F7F7F7; color: #666666; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 9.0pt;">Fairly
easy to reach from the Cheongwadae (Blue House), Sarangchae has two stories
divided into several exhibition halls.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span class="apple-converted-space"><span style="background: #F7F7F7; color: #666666; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 9.0pt;">Upon
entry, you will find yourself at the <b>Republic
of Korea Hall</b>. This place will give you a quick introduction on Korean
history and culture. Famous UNESCO heritage sights in Korea are illustrated in
this area as well – with inclusions on the evolution of Korean currency across
the years.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhwTE32e7BRLg5i-ip87p0zt5Vm-0hu8vkIJO5VtcHcNGjIc6iiovPvSuFXIlF8z1tUeONLcwA5yHHGCDOxAoqaMVld150OMfN2yA48biXYr1wW9oHJ_L9orremQ-1VhCIQo_y9zL6yGUcz/s1600/938743_image2_1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhwTE32e7BRLg5i-ip87p0zt5Vm-0hu8vkIJO5VtcHcNGjIc6iiovPvSuFXIlF8z1tUeONLcwA5yHHGCDOxAoqaMVld150OMfN2yA48biXYr1wW9oHJ_L9orremQ-1VhCIQo_y9zL6yGUcz/s400/938743_image2_1.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">courtesy of http://www.visitkorea.or.kr </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<span class="apple-converted-space"><span style="background: #F7F7F7; color: #666666; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 9.0pt;">At
the <b>Hi Seoul Hall</b>, get to know a
little more about Seoul – the capital city of Korea. Some things interesting
here include a highlight of the city’s major attractions as well as video
presentations to showcase them. For those showbiz and KPop fanatics, there’s
also a feature on Korea’s most popular celebrities. <o:p></o:p></span></span><br />
<span class="apple-converted-space"><span style="background: #F7F7F7; color: #666666; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 9.0pt;"><br /></span></span>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEio3bkuPXoYMhVZN1jwsBdeo0wZW7A_D4uNVJaxJxQK5Srh0W5e0rwEhKyCrcdfgMj1SWOrfyghyhMSH1HHoiCK2RY3Bp9QRlxShNK7hZuwW4FmiertOZKf5G5HTCjXKDg9DoIzZDc6RAlg/s1600/938747_image2_1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEio3bkuPXoYMhVZN1jwsBdeo0wZW7A_D4uNVJaxJxQK5Srh0W5e0rwEhKyCrcdfgMj1SWOrfyghyhMSH1HHoiCK2RY3Bp9QRlxShNK7hZuwW4FmiertOZKf5G5HTCjXKDg9DoIzZDc6RAlg/s400/938747_image2_1.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">courtesy of http://www.visitkorea.or.kr </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<span class="apple-converted-space"><span style="background: #F7F7F7; color: #666666; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 9.0pt;">Moving
on to the second floor, we found ourselves at the <b>Presidential Hall</b>. I found this to be the most important exhibition
in this place. I got to learn how each president contributed to the nation
building of Korea until its present day. Oh yeah, you also get to have an
insider’s view of the daily activities that the president does. Very interesting
and amusing at the same time! There are several interactive displays and photo
walls here too which made the place more fun to explore.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgyNAbOWbzoTvMAqWC6tD15Z6UPG6HHKt5SiXzlhrN7ANivB1TwCvWzIPz1FpmgEw2k1Im1ZTSLsEot-XqTVHPW4yOiy6THshUI5igqow3HIBBq1aT5gfUM-iZJzFHVMKCkMPSHvOVKGiX7/s1600/938773_image2_1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgyNAbOWbzoTvMAqWC6tD15Z6UPG6HHKt5SiXzlhrN7ANivB1TwCvWzIPz1FpmgEw2k1Im1ZTSLsEot-XqTVHPW4yOiy6THshUI5igqow3HIBBq1aT5gfUM-iZJzFHVMKCkMPSHvOVKGiX7/s400/938773_image2_1.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">courtesy of http://www.visitkorea.or.kr </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/32777953@N02/8909367443/" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" title="PB071357092e by The Loft Prince, on Flickr"><img alt="PB071357092e" height="375" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8255/8909367443_01fb70432f.jpg" width="500" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">so this is how it feels to be president</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<br /></div>
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<span class="apple-converted-space"><span style="background: #F7F7F7; color: #666666; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 9.0pt;">In
the <b>Green Growth Hall</b>, there are
some showcases that relate to the past and current policies of Korea in
targeting to become a Greener nation. It was nice to see that the environment
is included as a top priority in their policy decision making.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/32777953@N02/8909978720/" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" title="PB071362097e by The Loft Prince, on Flickr"><img alt="PB071362097e" height="375" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7364/8909978720_b46098eecb.jpg" width="500" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">nice displays for Green Growth</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
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<span class="apple-converted-space"><span style="background: #F7F7F7; color: #666666; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 9.0pt;">We ended
the tour of Sarangchae at the <b>Global
Leadership Hall</b>. There was a replica here of the G20 Summit meeting table. It
was an interactive hall wherein you get information on why Green Growth is
truly important. A carbon map of the world is can also be found in this hall. It
was nice to know which country actually leads in being Green.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/32777953@N02/8909361899/" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" title="PB071361096e by The Loft Prince, on Flickr"><img alt="PB071361096e" height="375" src="http://farm6.staticflickr.com/5346/8909361899_302a962358.jpg" width="500" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">the G20 Summit was held in Seoul last 2010</td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/32777953@N02/8910001010/" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" title="PB071363098e by The Loft Prince, on Flickr"><img alt="PB071363098e" height="375" src="http://farm4.staticflickr.com/3759/8910001010_9e7b392355.jpg" width="500" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">with my walking tour guide</td></tr>
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<span class="apple-converted-space"><span style="background: #F7F7F7; color: #666666; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 9.0pt;">For
those looking for souvenirs, there’s a souvenir shop here where you can bring
home a piece of Korea with you – especially if you are looking for Cheongwadae
related merchandise or those that pertain to Korea’s president. <o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span class="apple-converted-space"><b><span style="background: #F7F7F7; color: #666666; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 9.0pt;">Opening Hours: <o:p></o:p></span></b></span></div>
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<span class="apple-converted-space"><span style="background: #F7F7F7; color: #666666; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 9.0pt;">Daily:
9:00 – 18:00 <o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<br /></div>
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<span class="apple-converted-space"><b><span style="background: #F7F7F7; color: #666666; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 9.0pt;">Closed on Mondays<o:p></o:p></span></b></span></div>
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<span class="apple-converted-space"><b><span style="background: #F7F7F7; color: #666666; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 9.0pt;">How to get here:</span></b></span><span class="apple-converted-space"><span style="background: #F7F7F7; color: #666666; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 9.0pt;"> <o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span class="apple-converted-space"><span style="background: #F7F7F7; color: #666666; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 9.0pt;">By
Subway: Gyeongbokgung Palace Station (Line 3, Exit 4) and walk 800m north
(about 12 minutes)<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span class="apple-converted-space"><span style="background: #F7F7F7; color: #666666; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 9.0pt;">By
Bus: Bus#8000 and get off at Cheongwadae Fountain Plaza Stop<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="background: #F7F7F7; color: #666666; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 9.0pt; line-height: 115%;">What are your thoughts
on Sarangchae at Cheongwadae? Did this post make you want to go and visit it
too? Tell me about it by commenting below or using the Contact button on the
right. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
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<span style="background: #F7F7F7; color: #666666; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 9.0pt; line-height: 115%;">If you have some
questions, feel free to ask. I’ll try my best to help you out.<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="background: #F7F7F7; color: #666666; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 9.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span>
<span style="background: #F7F7F7; color: #666666; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 9.0pt; line-height: 115%;"></span><br />
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<span class="apple-converted-space"><span style="background: #F7F7F7; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 9.0pt;"><span style="color: #666666;">Up next, enjoying
the traditional houses at </span><b><span style="color: blue;"><a href="http://theloftprince.blogspot.com/2013/08/seoul-day-5-enjoying-traditional-houses.html">Bukchon Hanok Village</a></span></b><span style="color: #666666;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></span><br />
<span class="apple-converted-space"><span style="background: #F7F7F7; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 9.0pt;"><b><br /></b></span></span>
<span class="apple-converted-space"><span style="background: #F7F7F7; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 9.0pt;"><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: small;">Want to discover more about my </span><a href="http://theloftprince.blogspot.com/2012/12/seoul-south-korea-5-days-4-nights.html" style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: medium;"><b><span style="color: #990000;">5 Days and 4 Nights in Seoul</span></b></a><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: small;">, South Korea? Just click the link.</span></span></span></div>
</div>
Daryl | The Loft Princehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14662589755240540856noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3034097485415961847.post-75626217384987241212013-05-23T11:46:00.002+08:002013-08-09T22:39:50.076+08:00Seoul Day 4 - Spotting high ranking officials at Cheongwadae (Blue House)<br />
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<span class="apple-converted-space"><span style="background: #F7F7F7; color: #666666; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 9.0pt;">After
my morning stroll within the Gyeongbokgung Palace grounds, I headed on straight
to <b>Cheongwadae</b>. Commonly referred to
as the <b>Blue House</b>, this structure
has over 150,000 traditional Korean blue roof tiles. Known for their regal
color and intense durability, these tiles will last for over 100 years without fading
or cracking. Simply amazing! <o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/32777953@N02/8796881816/" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" title="PB071348083e by The Loft Prince, on Flickr"><img alt="PB071348083e" height="375" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8549/8796881816_16acc8d044.jpg" width="500" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">view of Cheongwadae at the foot of Mt. Bugaksan</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<a name='more'></a><br /></div>
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<span class="apple-converted-space"><span style="background: #F7F7F7; color: #666666; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 9.0pt;">This
structure is very important to Korean modern society. Why, you ask? It’s no
less than the office and official residence of South Korea’s president. As the
seat of power, this whole area is heavily guarded by the combined forces of the
military and police. You will really feel the presence of security in this
place as well as in the nearby vicinity. <o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span class="apple-converted-space"><span style="background: #F7F7F7; color: #666666; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 9.0pt;">It’s
very easy to get here as well. Simply head on over to the northern gate of Gyeongbokgung
Palace and you will spot this place. As this was the case, it was very
interesting to find the traditional and modern seats of power adjacent to each
other.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<br /></div>
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<span class="apple-converted-space"><span style="background: #F7F7F7; color: #666666; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 9.0pt;">Cheongwadae
offers guided tours in its premises. You just have to register in advance.
Unfortunately, there was an ongoing political affair when I went here. So, the
nearest I can get was just until the main gate. Nevertheless, I took the
opportunity to catch a glimpse of the place from the outside.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/32777953@N02/8786294217/" title="PB071352087e by The Loft Prince, on Flickr"><img alt="PB071352087e" height="500" src="http://farm6.staticflickr.com/5346/8786294217_246c7791a6.jpg" width="375" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
</div>
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<span class="apple-converted-space"><span style="background: #F7F7F7; color: #666666; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 9.0pt;">As there
was a political event, there were so many VIPs coming from and going into
Cheongwadae in their dignified vehicles. Too bad I was too far to identify who
they were. It was actually a sight to behold. <o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<br /></div>
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<span class="apple-converted-space"><span style="background: #F7F7F7; color: #666666; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 9.0pt;">My
short visit to this place was a pleasant experience. Perhaps next time I can
pick a day where the tours are offered to get more of a detailed feel of
Cheongwadae from the inside.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<br /></div>
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<span class="apple-converted-space"><span style="background: #F7F7F7; color: #666666; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 9.0pt;">Have
any of you been into Cheongwadae? Tell me about your experience </span></span><span style="background: #F7F7F7; color: #666666; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 9.0pt;">by commenting below or using the Contact button on the
right<span class="apple-converted-space">. I would really like to know more about
this place from others.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<br /></div>
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<span class="apple-converted-space"><span style="background: #F7F7F7; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 9.0pt;"><span style="color: #666666;">Up
next, learning political history in </span><b><a href="http://theloftprince.blogspot.com/2013/06/seoul-day-4-learning-political-history.html"><span style="color: blue;">Sarangchaeat Cheongwadae President Museum</span></a></b><span style="color: #666666;">.<o:p></o:p></span></span></span></div>
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<br />
Want to discover more about my <a href="http://theloftprince.blogspot.com/2012/12/seoul-south-korea-5-days-4-nights.html"><b><span style="color: #990000;">5 Days and 4 Nights in Seoul</span></b></a>, South Korea? Just click the link.</div>
Daryl | The Loft Princehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14662589755240540856noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3034097485415961847.post-67404489155869814402013-04-28T12:44:00.000+08:002014-02-09T15:45:27.894+08:00Hong Kong Day 1 – Bargain hunting at Mongkok<br />
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<span style="background-color: #f7f7f7; color: #666666; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 9pt;">When
you’re in Hong Kong, you better prepare some cash (or your credit card, if you
like the more expensive stuff) for shopping. There are literally hundreds of
stores selling almost anything that anyone would fancy here!</span></div>
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<br /></div>
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<span class="apple-converted-space"><span style="background: #F7F7F7; color: #666666; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 9.0pt;">One
such place to find good bargains is <b>Mongkok</b>.
Located at the Kowloon side, this place has a wide array of selections to
choose from – from high-end shopping malls to street markets. Simply pick a
street to start from and explore the numerous possibilities!<o:p></o:p></span></span><br />
<span class="apple-converted-space"><span style="background: #F7F7F7; color: #666666; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 9.0pt;"><br /></span></span>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi4rjUhfd_0Qbfgufz6cwlnzAyVDbSwIQ9Yn5xdajeKoz9GEn_9NsayEWs550Qj0mNoejHPDXPCOL-zmDFRElZL6i2PQizttyClo0w9hEqz_RL5NhK_49-APagiacyUu93XPyM0VOQUgicj/s1600/Discover+HK+Mongkok.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi4rjUhfd_0Qbfgufz6cwlnzAyVDbSwIQ9Yn5xdajeKoz9GEn_9NsayEWs550Qj0mNoejHPDXPCOL-zmDFRElZL6i2PQizttyClo0w9hEqz_RL5NhK_49-APagiacyUu93XPyM0VOQUgicj/s1600/Discover+HK+Mongkok.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">the busy streets of Mongkok<br />
courtesy of http://www.discoverhongkong.com/</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span class="apple-converted-space"><span style="background: #F7F7F7; color: #666666; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 9.0pt;"></span></span><br />
<a name='more'></a><span class="apple-converted-space"><span style="background: #F7F7F7; color: #666666; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 9.0pt;"><br /></span></span></div>
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<span style="background-color: #f7f7f7; color: #666666; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 9pt;">So,
after going around Hong Kong Disneyland for the day, we ended up going here for
the night.</span></div>
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<span class="apple-converted-space"><span style="background: #F7F7F7; color: #666666; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 9.0pt;">To
help you out on your quest for great bargains, I’ll tell you more about the
more famous areas I went to in this place.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<br /></div>
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<span class="apple-converted-space"><span style="background: #F7F7F7; color: #666666; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 9.0pt;">First
off, there’s <b>Sai Yeung Choi St. South</b>.
Want the latest gadgets at very reasonable prices? Then, this is the street for
you! With both sides of the street lined with numerous electronics stores
(better look at basements and upper floors as well), it’s up to you to decide
where to purchase what you want.<o:p></o:p></span></span><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhTYO2i_xz3evSflbou3GRFGkycDAT_8qUfaC76G0dzMLjyXpwaUUmx_rehwrf7V7IgND8320V8c81XZ7-I4v0lVl9XyfXOYkzYbixr7_4-n_vlVM_mWrDZKs19KIviVSyEPnNcFHht23cs/s1600/Sai+Yeung+Choi.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhTYO2i_xz3evSflbou3GRFGkycDAT_8qUfaC76G0dzMLjyXpwaUUmx_rehwrf7V7IgND8320V8c81XZ7-I4v0lVl9XyfXOYkzYbixr7_4-n_vlVM_mWrDZKs19KIviVSyEPnNcFHht23cs/s400/Sai+Yeung+Choi.jpg" height="266" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Sai Yeung Choi St. South<br />
courtesy of http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/File:Hksycss.jpg</td></tr>
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<span class="apple-converted-space"><span style="background: #F7F7F7; color: #666666; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 9.0pt;"><br /></span></span>
<span class="apple-converted-space"><span style="background: #F7F7F7; color: #666666; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 9.0pt;">Apart
from that, there are also some clothing stores here. Samples of which include
Giordano, Baleno, Bossini, and G2000 among others. There’s even an Esprit
outlet hidden amidst the electronics stores.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span class="apple-converted-space"><span style="background: #F7F7F7; color: #666666; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 9.0pt;">Then,
there’s <b>Tung Choi St.</b> – more known
as <b>Ladies’ Market</b>. There are so many
bargain stalls here selling a whole range of products. If you don’t know where
to start, I suggest starting from one end of the street at Mong Kok Road (near
the MTR station) and make your way to the other end.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjuTtmqKZQQvgJwzlNUBAUg9nQFvFDfMONsKWvY1nuFBh6mAXFQv27kdoPUg_KX0FWB2NG_mJZxtasi9Tvo19cSXJOSARwHhN-2tulWTUJFecYo8u6dX_cOuNn1VntTzAisHD0MxJsp57ea/s1600/Discover+HK+Ladies%2527+Market.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjuTtmqKZQQvgJwzlNUBAUg9nQFvFDfMONsKWvY1nuFBh6mAXFQv27kdoPUg_KX0FWB2NG_mJZxtasi9Tvo19cSXJOSARwHhN-2tulWTUJFecYo8u6dX_cOuNn1VntTzAisHD0MxJsp57ea/s1600/Discover+HK+Ladies%2527+Market.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">the many bargain stalls along Ladies' Market<br />
courtesy of http://www.discoverhongkong.com/</td></tr>
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<span class="apple-converted-space"><span style="background: #F7F7F7; color: #666666; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 9.0pt;"><br /></span></span>
<span class="apple-converted-space"><span style="background: #F7F7F7; color: #666666; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 9.0pt;">As
with its name, most of the items sold here are catered for women – shoes, bags,
and accessories. However, other things like Hong Kong souvenir items, watches,
and children’s toys are also up for grabs in this street. <o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiGHfL6ywyZiXioZi4Xd3W4DB1r1Tc-0lHdwaFe6KC1NZyVnJIBP2Id7Bgns5C-mN6X1QOFpYRKkMcEYlkFuWHxNngxtWwHOmd_utEnqhdl-Fcz1Ia0Jf9w2NS_rPZP9sY7bI9RRkgtQtxs/s1600/Discover+HK+Ladies%2527+Market+1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiGHfL6ywyZiXioZi4Xd3W4DB1r1Tc-0lHdwaFe6KC1NZyVnJIBP2Id7Bgns5C-mN6X1QOFpYRKkMcEYlkFuWHxNngxtWwHOmd_utEnqhdl-Fcz1Ia0Jf9w2NS_rPZP9sY7bI9RRkgtQtxs/s1600/Discover+HK+Ladies%2527+Market+1.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">they sell everything and anything here at Ladies' Market<br />
courtesy of http://www.discoverhongkong.com/</td></tr>
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<span class="apple-converted-space"><b><span style="background: #F7F7F7; color: #666666; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 9.0pt;"><br /></span></b></span>
<span class="apple-converted-space"><b><span style="background: #F7F7F7; color: #666666; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 9.0pt;">TIP:</span></b></span><span class="apple-converted-space"><span style="background: #F7F7F7; color: #666666; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 9.0pt;"> Remember to compare prices between stalls
and bargain your way through to get the best deals in this street.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span class="apple-converted-space"><span style="background: #F7F7F7; color: #666666; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 9.0pt;">For
those avid sports folks, you might want to check out <b>Fa Yuen St. South</b>. Stores here offer sportswear, sporting
equipment, and other sporting goods at reasonable prices. On <b>Fa Yuen St. North</b>, you’d see trendy
fashion items and casual wear for men, women, and children at very affordable
prices. So don’t miss out on this one!<o:p></o:p></span></span><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiGgxjrC9D2UH4bzcw5_LTk-I0He-Mfl_z6hMW-y1ut_1A76Ys_2zHbBBSkCOEJcKbYDfX79kznPnvOaRNSElWdngdwmCjrQxvedQaFCzL6nkHNoCbP17eNCEfMMkuDa-40joDj-Dmqn6dF/s1600/Discover+HK+Fa+Yuen.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiGgxjrC9D2UH4bzcw5_LTk-I0He-Mfl_z6hMW-y1ut_1A76Ys_2zHbBBSkCOEJcKbYDfX79kznPnvOaRNSElWdngdwmCjrQxvedQaFCzL6nkHNoCbP17eNCEfMMkuDa-40joDj-Dmqn6dF/s1600/Discover+HK+Fa+Yuen.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">the endless sporting goods street of Fa Yuen<br />
courtesy of http://www.discoverhongkong.com/</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<span class="apple-converted-space"><b><span style="background: #F7F7F7; color: #666666; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 9.0pt;"><br /></span></b></span>
<span class="apple-converted-space"><b><span style="background: #F7F7F7; color: #666666; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 9.0pt;">TIP:</span></b></span><span class="apple-converted-space"><span style="background: #F7F7F7; color: #666666; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 9.0pt;"> A little knowledge of Chinese can go a long
way here in Mongkok for your benefit – especially when haggling with the
vendors.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span class="apple-converted-space"><span style="background: #F7F7F7; color: #666666; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 9.0pt;">If
street shopping is not your thing, don’t worry. Mongkok has quite a lot of
shopping malls as well. The most prominent of which are Langham Place and Grand
Plaza. <o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span class="apple-converted-space"><span style="background: #F7F7F7; color: #666666; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 9.0pt;">With
over 13 floors and 2 basement floors, <b>Langham
Place</b> surely will not disappoint you. There are international as well as
local brands here. Some of the more famous ones are H&M, Armani Exchange,
i.t, Bauhaus, and Fred Perry among others. Be prepared to spend though as many
of the items the stores sell here are bordering on the luxurious side – well,
that’s what the credit card is for right? <o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEglEqciFO8LkoY1g7jLYluwQ72BGJkyinBoRFaFdldj839BiDcE6iqjQtdy_0EgBohvl12KnMdbhEu-pd7EyRYic1taHfDFXRcqm2AA9Htl8_VI7RZ9PJg-RViGzQU1ONmK3vQdaEcWvZMS/s1600/Discover+HK+Langham.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEglEqciFO8LkoY1g7jLYluwQ72BGJkyinBoRFaFdldj839BiDcE6iqjQtdy_0EgBohvl12KnMdbhEu-pd7EyRYic1taHfDFXRcqm2AA9Htl8_VI7RZ9PJg-RViGzQU1ONmK3vQdaEcWvZMS/s1600/Discover+HK+Langham.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">beautiful atrium of the Langham Place mall<br />
courtesy of http://www.discoverhongkong.com/</td></tr>
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<span class="apple-converted-space"><span style="background: #F7F7F7; color: #666666; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 9.0pt;"><br /></span></span>
<span class="apple-converted-space"><span style="background: #F7F7F7; color: #666666; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 9.0pt;">At <b>Grand Plaza</b>, you’ll hit it up with
stores like the Japanese brand collect point and the Australian brand Cotton
On. There’s also the American brand GAP across the street from here. <o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj88FrsSLIRJkmWYPnAAU_oMPqPJc_gqbWJ61G9_84HIhkxkHTQ6ANE-g7ssRnaUjckO0sk63rB6Vb4CWEdtWDvz0zP05Z1x8p1wm_76PHsDmaqUrnFHmdcYMpkkcdIwsExjZfj8OeaYJOk/s1600/hkp_grand_plaza_tower_main_visual.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj88FrsSLIRJkmWYPnAAU_oMPqPJc_gqbWJ61G9_84HIhkxkHTQ6ANE-g7ssRnaUjckO0sk63rB6Vb4CWEdtWDvz0zP05Z1x8p1wm_76PHsDmaqUrnFHmdcYMpkkcdIwsExjZfj8OeaYJOk/s400/hkp_grand_plaza_tower_main_visual.jpg" height="115" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">facade of the Grand Plaza mall<br />
courtesy of http://www.hanglung.com/</td></tr>
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<span class="apple-converted-space"><span style="background: #F7F7F7; color: #666666; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 9.0pt;">I
didn’t even realize that is was already getting late. There were so many things
to distract you that it makes you lose the sense of time – there are also some
art performers in this area as well. A friendly reminder that it was almost
midnight came in the form of this: the stores were already closing down. That
signalled the end of this first day here at Hong Kong for this trip.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-qAgJwveuRJqucgIJKYhyphenhyphenkhHMgiI184emIARnf7vjCmjnv0YHxfnW4hCJe3Y3b1eU9-zRZ7MFB9u-qDtpKNOv5hrLllMiW4K2PkhJrVvUX-6XDwdjdqvXnvHRmdNPcZ65E9Bhdt_xGdam/s1600/IMG_2439e.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-qAgJwveuRJqucgIJKYhyphenhyphenkhHMgiI184emIARnf7vjCmjnv0YHxfnW4hCJe3Y3b1eU9-zRZ7MFB9u-qDtpKNOv5hrLllMiW4K2PkhJrVvUX-6XDwdjdqvXnvHRmdNPcZ65E9Bhdt_xGdam/s400/IMG_2439e.jpg" height="400" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">a thematic performance by a local artist on the street</td></tr>
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<span class="apple-converted-space"><span style="background: #F7F7F7; color: #666666; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 9.0pt;">It
was certainly a fun-filled and fulfilling day for me!<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span class="apple-converted-space"><b><span style="background: #F7F7F7; color: #666666; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 9.0pt;">How to get here:</span></b></span><span class="apple-converted-space"><span style="background: #F7F7F7; color: #666666; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 9.0pt;"> <o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="background: #F7F7F7; color: #666666; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 9.0pt;">MTR: Mongkok Station<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="background: #F7F7F7; color: #666666; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 9.0pt; line-height: 115%;">What are your thoughts
on Mongkok? Did this post make you want to go and visit it too? Tell me about
it by commenting below or using the Contact button on the right. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="background: #F7F7F7; color: #666666; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 9.0pt; line-height: 115%;">If you have some
questions, feel free to ask. I’ll try my best to help you out.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="background: #F7F7F7; color: #666666; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 9.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="background: #F7F7F7; color: #666666; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 9.0pt;">Up next, <span class="apple-converted-space"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Enjoying the seaside atmosphere at </span><b style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Stanley Bay</b>.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<br />Daryl | The Loft Princehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14662589755240540856noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3034097485415961847.post-63197822346393821122013-04-20T12:31:00.000+08:002013-04-28T13:49:05.887+08:00Hong Kong Day 1 - Reminiscing Childhood at Hong Kong Disneyland<br />
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<span class="apple-converted-space"><span style="background: #F7F7F7; color: #666666; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 9.0pt; line-height: 115%;">It was a perfect sunny day to be out and about today!
Perfect that the weather cooperated since today is <b>Hong Kong Disneyland</b> day! Definitely, you don’t want to have it
rain when visiting an outdoor theme park. <o:p></o:p></span></span><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/32777953@N02/8664834782/" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" title="P2011880330e by The Loft Prince, on Flickr"><img alt="P2011880330e" height="375" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8247/8664834782_fe27508b42.jpg" width="500" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">night view of the Hong Kong Disneyland arch</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/32777953@N02/8577005117/" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" title="P2011680130e by The Loft Prince, on Flickr"><img alt="P2011680130e" height="375" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8102/8577005117_33b2dfbda1.jpg" width="500" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Mickey during the Flights of Fantasy Parade</td></tr>
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<span class="apple-converted-space"><span style="background: #F7F7F7; color: #666666; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 9.0pt; line-height: 115%;"></span></span><br />
<a name='more'></a><span class="apple-converted-space"><span style="background: #F7F7F7; color: #666666; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 9.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></span>
<span class="apple-converted-space"><span style="background: #F7F7F7; color: #666666; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 9.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Although situated at the edge of Lantau Island – far away
from the city center – the Disneyland Resort is very accessible with the help
of Hong Kong’s very sophisticated MTR system. Only a few line transfers and
you’re there!<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span class="apple-converted-space"><span style="background: #F7F7F7; color: #666666; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 9.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></span></div>
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<span class="apple-converted-space"><span style="background: #F7F7F7; color: #666666; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 9.0pt; line-height: 115%;">As we are already on the topic of the MTR, the Disneyland
Resort line is specifically designed to capture the feel of the theme park. The
interiors of the train coaches are all filled with Disney motifs and décor that
will surely delight children and everybody with a child at heart. Not even at
Disneyland yet and you feel the excitement already! Isn’t this a great way to
start your Hong Kong Disneyland experience?<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">details inside the Disneyland Resort line MTR</td></tr>
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<span class="apple-converted-space"><span style="background: #F7F7F7; color: #666666; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 9.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Upon arrival at the platform of Disneyland Resort Station,
you will be greeted by high ceilings and large stairways that will lead you to
the gateway of the theme park.<o:p></o:p></span></span><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/32777953@N02/8663770567/" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" title="P2011882332e by The Loft Prince, on Flickr"><img alt="P2011882332e" height="375" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8253/8663770567_a2350c8c59.jpg" width="500" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">night view of Disneyland Resort MTR station</td></tr>
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<span class="apple-converted-space"><span style="background: #F7F7F7; color: #666666; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 9.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Visiting this place for the second time now, it still
brings a smile to my face. Somehow, Disneyland always awakens the inner child
in me and makes me feel like a kid all over again. I find that amazing! <o:p></o:p></span></span><br />
<span class="apple-converted-space"><span style="background: #F7F7F7; color: #666666; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 9.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></span></div>
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<span class="apple-converted-space"><span style="background: #F7F7F7; color: #666666; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 9.0pt; line-height: 115%;">After purchasing tickets, we proceeded to explore the theme
park. Given that we have been here before, we first ventured to the new attractions
– namely, <b>Toy Story Land</b> and <b>Grizzly Gulch</b>. <o:p></o:p></span></span><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/32777953@N02/8664833340/" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" title="IMG_0602e by The Loft Prince, on Flickr"><img alt="IMG_0602e" height="375" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8244/8664833340_d0eaa947d6.jpg" width="500" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">got Slinky for my ticket<br />
450 HKD</td></tr>
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<b><span style="background: #F7F7F7; color: #666666; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 9.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Toy Story Land</span></b><span style="background: #F7F7F7; color: #666666; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 9.0pt; line-height: 115%;"> is really amusing – especially for the
little ones. You will definitely feel like one of the toys from the movie since
everything here is larger than life – the toys I mean. I like how they
incorporated so many toys in this area to make it look like a giant playpen
which resembles Andy’s backyard. Oh
yeah, if you’re lucky, you might even catch a few of the characters from the
movie and take photos with them! <o:p></o:p></span><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/32777953@N02/8664868768/" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" title="P2011561011e by The Loft Prince, on Flickr"><img alt="P2011561011e" height="500" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8256/8664868768_a86ebee506.jpg" width="375" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">welcome to Toy Story Land</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/32777953@N02/8663768399/" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" title="P2011572022e by The Loft Prince, on Flickr"><img alt="P2011572022e" height="500" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8255/8663768399_4eff69ee55.jpg" width="375" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">nope, those are not statues!</td></tr>
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<span style="background: #F7F7F7; color: #666666; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 9.0pt; line-height: 115%;">As for the rides,
there are several in this area – the <b>Slinky
Dog Spin</b>, <b>Toy Soldier Parachute Drop</b>,
and the <b>RC Racer</b>. Great fun to go on
these rides! You just have to bear with the long lines especially if you come
on a weekend.<o:p></o:p></span><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/32777953@N02/8663767603/" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" title="P2011586036e by The Loft Prince, on Flickr"><img alt="P2011586036e" height="375" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8251/8663767603_1f2ae5850b.jpg" width="500" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Slinky Dog Spin</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/32777953@N02/8664866096/" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" title="P2011588038e by The Loft Prince, on Flickr"><img alt="P2011588038e" height="375" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8259/8664866096_b0c42b6580.jpg" width="500" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Toy Soldier Parachute Drop</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/32777953@N02/8664864828/" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" title="P2011599049e by The Loft Prince, on Flickr"><img alt="P2011599049e" height="375" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8265/8664864828_47b59d7fcf.jpg" width="500" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">a view of Toy Story Land</td></tr>
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<span style="background: #F7F7F7; color: #666666; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 9.0pt; line-height: 115%;">After conquering Toy
Story Land, we already got hungry so we grabbed lunch in <b>Main Street, U.S.A.</b> – at the <b>Corner
Café</b> to be exact. The food here tasted so good that all of our orders
disappeared so fast! <o:p></o:p></span><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/32777953@N02/8664863638/" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" title="P2011614064e by The Loft Prince, on Flickr"><img alt="P2011614064e" height="375" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8249/8664863638_8b7b44b1be.jpg" width="500" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">band at Main Street, U.S.A.</td></tr>
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<span style="background: #F7F7F7; color: #666666; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 9.0pt; line-height: 115%;">After that, we checked
out <b>Grizzly Gulch</b> to feel the vibe
of the Wild West. It’s a gold mining town in this area alright! There are so
many features here to prove that – not to mention the big gold nugget to be
found at the weighing scale. With that, there are so many photo spots to choose
from!<o:p></o:p></span><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/32777953@N02/8663759399/" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" title="P2011638088e by The Loft Prince, on Flickr"><img alt="P2011638088e" height="375" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8259/8663759399_102ba733f6.jpg" width="500" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">wishing this giant gold nugget was real enough to bring home</td></tr>
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<span style="background: #F7F7F7; color: #666666; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 9.0pt; line-height: 115%;">There’s entertainment
here as well with the <b>Welcome Wagon Show</b>.
They put up a good musical performance to invite everyone to explore this friendly
mining town and show some great hospitality.
<o:p></o:p></span><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/32777953@N02/8664860428/" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" title="P2011628078e by The Loft Prince, on Flickr"><img alt="P2011628078e" height="375" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8263/8664860428_052ac4d265.jpg" width="500" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">performance at the Welcome Wagon Show</td></tr>
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<span style="background: #F7F7F7; color: #666666; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 9.0pt; line-height: 115%;">If the weather is too
hot, this is the perfect place too cool down with the numerous water features
near the geyser (if you dare to get wet, that is).<o:p></o:p></span><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/32777953@N02/8664861240/" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" title="P2011626076e by The Loft Prince, on Flickr"><img alt="P2011626076e" height="500" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8265/8664861240_807fe0058b.jpg" width="375" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">the geyser</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/32777953@N02/8663758149/" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" title="P2011649099e by The Loft Prince, on Flickr"><img alt="P2011649099e" height="500" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8255/8663758149_462cb54847.jpg" width="375" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">the water drum</td></tr>
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<span style="background: #F7F7F7; color: #666666; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 9.0pt; line-height: 115%;">There’s just one ride
here – the <b>Runaway Mine Cars</b>. Cool
ride for those who want some form of adrenaline rush!<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/32777953@N02/8664857134/" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" title="P2011659109e by The Loft Prince, on Flickr"><img alt="P2011659109e" height="375" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8258/8664857134_909cf53065.jpg" width="500" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">part of the Runaway Mine Cars tracks</td></tr>
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<span style="background: #F7F7F7; color: #666666; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 9.0pt; line-height: 115%;">When we finished at
Grizzly Gulch, we proceeded to explore the older parts of Hong Kong Disneyland
– namely, <b>Adventureland</b>, <b>Tommorowland</b>, and <b>Fantasyland</b>. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/32777953@N02/8663755753/" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" title="P2011666116e by The Loft Prince, on Flickr"><img alt="P2011666116e" height="500" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8266/8663755753_c7373bafb5.jpg" width="375" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">hey Merlin, want some help?</td></tr>
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<span style="background: #F7F7F7; color: #666666; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 9.0pt; line-height: 115%;">By late afternoon, it
was time for the <b>Flights of Fantasy
Parade</b>. So off we went to catch it! Even if it was my second time seeing
this performance, it was still really enjoyable. The performers were really
talented and showed their skills. Also, it was fun to watch and to mingle with
the Disney characters as they frolic around and dance to the tune of the lively
music in the background.<o:p></o:p></span><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/32777953@N02/8663754489/" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" title="P2011674124e by The Loft Prince, on Flickr"><img alt="P2011674124e" height="375" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8239/8663754489_4a15d7f2cc.jpg" width="500" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">performers at the parade</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/32777953@N02/8664852962/" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" title="P2011683133e by The Loft Prince, on Flickr"><img alt="P2011683133e" height="375" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8262/8664852962_be98db6714.jpg" width="500" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">the whole gang during the parade</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/32777953@N02/8663752065/" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" title="P2011703153e by The Loft Prince, on Flickr"><img alt="P2011703153e" height="375" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8251/8663752065_d46865465c.jpg" width="500" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">princesses on board</td></tr>
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<div style="text-align: center;">
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/32777953@N02/8663740417/" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" title="P2011721171e by The Loft Prince, on Flickr"><img alt="P2011721171e" height="375" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8255/8663740417_a5ae4bb4d2.jpg" width="500" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Aloha! Lilo and Stitch</td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/32777953@N02/8664850594/" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" title="P2011714164e by The Loft Prince, on Flickr"><img alt="P2011714164e" height="500" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8263/8664850594_aeb3c8a9f7.jpg" width="375" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Tinkerbell spreading some pixie dust</td></tr>
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<div style="text-align: center;">
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/32777953@N02/8664839128/" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" title="P2011733183e by The Loft Prince, on Flickr"><img alt="P2011733183e" height="375" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8265/8664839128_22a91db39d.jpg" width="500" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">the jungle folks visiting the city</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/32777953@N02/8663737949/" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" title="P2011739189e by The Loft Prince, on Flickr"><img alt="P2011739189e" height="375" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8262/8663737949_17af7a3732.jpg" width="500" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Buzz Lightyear has landed</td></tr>
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<span style="background: #F7F7F7; color: #666666; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 9.0pt; line-height: 115%;">When the parade was
all over, we headed to the <b>Festival of
the Lion King</b> show. Being the first time I saw this performance, I was
really impressed. The actors and actresses played their respective parts very
well with such talent. More so, I liked how the animatronics used for the show
seemed so real – you can even see the emotions in their eyes (if you look close
enough). <o:p></o:p></span><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/32777953@N02/8664837330/" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" title="P2011812262e by The Loft Prince, on Flickr"><img alt="P2011812262e" height="500" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8256/8664837330_7bd9904342.jpg" width="375" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">took a photo by Tarzan's tree house while waiting for the Lion King show</td></tr>
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<span style="background: #F7F7F7; color: #666666; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 9.0pt; line-height: 115%;">A little bit of
exploring the theme park again and it’s time for <b>Disney in The Stars Fireworks</b>. Watching the fireworks display that
illuminates Sleeping Beauty Castle was a good way to end the day here at Hong
Kong Disneyland! You can really feel the magic while gazing at the night sky to
see the bright displays of color match the musical background.<o:p></o:p></span><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/32777953@N02/8663735971/" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" title="P2011838288e by The Loft Prince, on Flickr"><img alt="P2011838288e" height="375" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8256/8663735971_1256baaf7c.jpg" width="500" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">cool fireworks!</td></tr>
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<span style="background: #F7F7F7; color: #666666; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 9.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Oh yeah, before you
leave the theme park, if you haven’t bought any souvenirs yet early on, be sure
to drop by their gift shops to purchase one of a kind souvenir items. You won’t
regret taking a piece of Disneyland back home with you! I know I surely didn’t!
<o:p></o:p></span><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/32777953@N02/8663735147/" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" title="P2011854304e by The Loft Prince, on Flickr"><img alt="P2011854304e" height="375" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8255/8663735147_2c59da665a.jpg" width="500" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">the illuminated souvenir shops and the numerous people</td></tr>
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<span class="apple-converted-space"><b><span style="background: #F7F7F7; color: #666666; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 9.0pt;">How to get here:</span></b></span><span class="apple-converted-space"><span style="background: #F7F7F7; color: #666666; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 9.0pt;"> <o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="background: #F7F7F7; color: #666666; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 9.0pt;"><b>MTR:</b> interchange at Sunny Bay Station to
transfer to the Disneyland Resort Line<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="background: #F7F7F7; color: #666666; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 9.0pt; line-height: 115%;">So, what are your
thoughts on Hong Kong Disneyland? Did this post make you want to go and visit
it too? Tell me about it by commenting below or using the Contact button on the
right. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="background: #F7F7F7; color: #666666; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 9.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Oh yeah, if you have
some questions about Hong Kong Disneyland, feel free to ask. I’ll try my best
to help you out.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="background: #F7F7F7; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 9.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="color: #666666;">Up next, bargain
hunting at </span><a href="http://theloftprince.blogspot.com/2013/04/hong-kong-day-1-bargain-hunting-at.html"><span style="color: blue;"><b>Mongkok</b></span></a><span style="color: #666666;">. </span></span></div>
Daryl | The Loft Princehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14662589755240540856noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3034097485415961847.post-86207821750154603622013-03-31T11:36:00.005+08:002013-08-09T22:40:19.307+08:00Seoul Day 4 - Culture seeking at Gyeongbokgung Palace (Part 2)<br />
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<span class="apple-converted-space"><span style="background: #F7F7F7; color: #666666; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 9.0pt; line-height: 115%;">The next area we went to was the <b>Sajeongjeon</b>. It was here where the king held early morning meetings
to manage routine state affairs. Early is not an understatement! These meetings
started at 3:00am in the morning! Imagine getting up at that hour to discuss
political matters!<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span class="apple-converted-space"><span style="background: #F7F7F7; color: #666666; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 9.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Next stop was the king’s living quarters, the <b>Gangnyeongjeon</b>. The structure was
divided into 9 sections with the center being the king’s room. It is here where
the king read books, rested, and attended to state affairs in private. </span></span></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/32777953@N02/8600538330/" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" title="PB071406141e by The Loft Prince, on Flickr"><img alt="PB071406141e" height="500" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8094/8600538330_e0076103c0.jpg" width="375" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">at the front of Gangnyeongjeon</td></tr>
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<span style="background-color: #f7f7f7; color: #666666; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 9pt; line-height: 115%;">Behind
it is the </span><b style="color: #666666; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 9pt; line-height: 115%;">Gyotaejeon</b><span style="background-color: #f7f7f7; color: #666666; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 9pt; line-height: 115%;"> which is the
queen’s main residence. Here, she oversaw how the palace household should be
run.</span></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/32777953@N02/8600539160/" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" title="PB071403138e by The Loft Prince, on Flickr"><img alt="PB071403138e" height="500" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8392/8600539160_e11a4fb4d9.jpg" width="375" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">at the front of Gyotaejeon</td></tr>
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<span class="apple-converted-space"><span style="background: #F7F7F7; color: #666666; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 9.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Walking into an archway situated in the tall walls led us
to the <b>Gyeonghoeru Pavilion</b>.
Situated in a pond, this structure served as the area where the king threw his
many banquets – especially those dedicated for foreign envoys. Impressive views
can be definitely appreciated here!<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/32777953@N02/8600545968/" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" title="PB071321056e by The Loft Prince, on Flickr"><img alt="PB071321056e" height="375" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8505/8600545968_7def7a4ed8.jpg" width="500" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">serene scenes at the Gyeonghoeru Pavilion</td></tr>
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<span class="apple-converted-space"><span style="background: #F7F7F7; color: #666666; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 9.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Afterwards, we strolled towards the <b>Jagyeongjeon</b>. This separate structure served as the residence of
Queen Dowager Jo – mother off King Heonjong. At the back, you can see the Ten
Longevity Chimney – decorated with ten longevity symbols that wish for good
health and happiness for the queen dowager. Considered as a national treasure,
it was one of the finest chimneys built during the Joseon period. <o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/32777953@N02/8599443677/" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" title="PB071336071e by The Loft Prince, on Flickr"><img alt="PB071336071e" height="375" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8527/8599443677_ddedc8d646.jpg" width="500" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">the infamous Ten Longevity Chimney at Jagyeongjeon</td></tr>
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<span class="apple-converted-space"><span style="background: #F7F7F7; color: #666666; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 9.0pt; line-height: 115%;">A few minutes of walking led us to the <b>Hyangwonjeong</b> which is situated in the middle of a pond. This
structure was a sight to behold with its intricate designs and craftsmanship. It
was built when King Gojong built <b>Geoncheonggung</b>
at the back of the pond in 1873 to have political independence from his father.
This building complex included living quarters for the king and the queen. It
even has a study. Unfortunately, it was also here where Queen Myeongseong was
killed in 1895 during the Japanese invasion.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">picture perfect at Hyangwonjeong</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/32777953@N02/8600541482/" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" title="PB071345080e by The Loft Prince, on Flickr"><img alt="PB071345080e" height="375" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8382/8600541482_4deefc63aa.jpg" width="500" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">location of the tragic scenes at Geoncheonggung</td></tr>
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<span class="apple-converted-space"><span style="background: #F7F7F7; color: #666666; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 9.0pt; line-height: 115%;">The last building we visited was the <b>Jibokjae</b>. Used as a library and a reception hall for foreign
envoys, this structure was actually moved here from Changdeokgung Palace in
1885 during King Gojong’s reign. A distinctive feature here is the mix of Qing
Chinese and traditional Korean architectural styles used to produce this
structure.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">a mixture of cultures at Jibokjae</td></tr>
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<span class="apple-converted-space"><span style="background: #F7F7F7; color: #666666; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 9.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Gyeongbokgung Palace truly proved to be the grandest of all
the palaces located in Seoul. I was so awe-inspired during my tour of the place
that I did not notice the time passing by. It felt like I was discovering
something new in every turn. More so, all the buildings were filled with
historical significance – although some were really tragic in nature. <o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span class="apple-converted-space"><span style="background: #F7F7F7; color: #666666; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 9.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Although some structures here were still in the process of
being restored, I like how they keep it to retain its original state. Another
thing I saw here was how Koreans are proud of their culture and heritage – to
even spend a whole lot of funds to keep these prominent and very much alive. I
wish my country, the Philippines, could perform better steps in the
preservation of such things.<o:p></o:p></span></span><br />
<span class="apple-converted-space"><span style="background: #F7F7F7; color: #666666; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 9.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></span>
<span class="apple-converted-space"><span style="background: #F7F7F7; color: #666666; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 9.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Oh yeah, Gyeongbokgung Palace's popularity skyrocketed due to a traditional Korean drama called <b>Dae Jang Geum (Jewel in the Palace)</b> which showcased so much about Korean culture. Here's a poster in recognition of that located at the royal kitchen vicinity - under restoration at the moment.</span></span><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/32777953@N02/8600544846/" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" title="PB071333068e by The Loft Prince, on Flickr"><img alt="PB071333068e" height="500" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8107/8600544846_301b4cc077.jpg" width="375" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">the very popular Dae Jang Geum</td></tr>
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<span class="apple-converted-space"><b><span style="background: #F7F7F7; color: #666666; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 9.0pt;">Opening Hours: <o:p></o:p></span></b></span></div>
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<span class="apple-converted-space"><span style="background: #F7F7F7; color: #666666; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 9.0pt;">March
- October: 9:00 – 18:00 <o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span class="apple-converted-space"><span style="background: #F7F7F7; color: #666666; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 9.0pt;">November
- February: 9:00 – 17:00<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span class="apple-converted-space"><b><span style="background: #F7F7F7; color: #666666; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 9.0pt;">Closed on Tuesdays<o:p></o:p></span></b></span></div>
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<span class="apple-converted-space"><b><span style="background: #F7F7F7; color: #666666; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 9.0pt;">How to get here:</span></b></span><span class="apple-converted-space"><span style="background: #F7F7F7; color: #666666; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 9.0pt;"> <o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span class="apple-converted-space"><span style="background: #F7F7F7; color: #666666; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 9.0pt;">Gyeongbokgung
Palace Station (Line 3, Exit 5)<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span class="apple-converted-space"><span style="background: #F7F7F7; color: #666666; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 9.0pt;">Gwanghwamun
Station (Line 5, Exit 2)<o:p></o:p></span></span><br />
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<span class="apple-converted-space"><span style="background: #F7F7F7; color: #666666; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 9.0pt;">Did you find this post informative and educational about Korean history and culture? Perhaps you've visited this grand palace in the past? Feel free to tell me your opinions and experiences by commenting below or by using the Contact button on the right.</span></span></div>
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<span class="apple-converted-space"><span style="background: #F7F7F7; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 9.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="color: #666666;">Up next, spotting high ranking officials at </span><b><span style="color: blue;"><a href="http://theloftprince.blogspot.com/2013/05/seoul-day-4-spotting-high-ranking.html">Cheongwadae (Blue House)</a> </span></b><span style="color: #666666;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></span><br />
<span class="apple-converted-space"><span style="background: #F7F7F7; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 9.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><b><span style="color: blue;"><br /></span></b></span></span>
<span class="apple-converted-space"><span style="background: #F7F7F7; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 9.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: small; line-height: normal;">Want to discover more about my </span><a href="http://theloftprince.blogspot.com/2012/12/seoul-south-korea-5-days-4-nights.html" style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: medium; line-height: normal;"><b><span style="color: #990000;">5 Days and 4 Nights in Seoul</span></b></a><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: small; line-height: normal;">, South Korea? Just click the link.</span></span></span></div>
Daryl | The Loft Princehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14662589755240540856noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3034097485415961847.post-58778216253963833472013-03-30T11:27:00.000+08:002013-08-09T22:39:45.347+08:00Seoul Day 4 - Culture seeking at Gyeongbokgung Palace (Part 1)<br />
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<span style="background-color: #f7f7f7; color: #666666; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 9pt; line-height: 115%;">It was a fine morning during my fourth day at Seoul.
Finally, the sun decided to shine bright today after hiding in the clouds for
the past days! I really appreciated this blessing of good weather since this
was the day designated for my Gyeongbokgung Palace tour.</span><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/32777953@N02/8599447629/" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" title="PB071313048e by The Loft Prince, on Flickr"><img alt="PB071313048e" height="375" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8101/8599447629_cea0b9b6d8.jpg" width="500" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">a nice view of the main throne hall amidst the mountainous backdrop</td></tr>
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<span class="apple-converted-space"><span style="background: #F7F7F7; color: #666666; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 9.0pt; line-height: 115%;">As the grandest of all the palaces located in Seoul, I did
not pass up the chance to get to know more about it. With that in mind, I also
signed-up for a walking tour of the place through this site: </span></span><a href="http://english.visitkorea.or.kr/"><b><span style="font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 9.0pt; line-height: 115%;">http://english.visitkorea.or.kr</span></b></a>
<span class="apple-converted-space"><span style="background: #F7F7F7; color: #666666; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 9.0pt; line-height: 115%;">prior
to my visit. The process was very simple. You just need to fill out a form and
you will get a confirmation e-mail afterwards. Oh yeah, did I mention that this
service is absolutely free so don’t miss the opportunity to sign-up!<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span class="apple-converted-space"><b><span style="background: #F7F7F7; color: #666666; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 9.0pt; line-height: 115%;">TIP:</span></b></span><span class="apple-converted-space"><span style="background: #F7F7F7; color: #666666; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 9.0pt; line-height: 115%;"> If you
plan to visit all Jongmyo Shrine and the 4 palaces in Seoul, purchase the
Integrated Ticket of Palaces worth 10,000 KRW. Instead of paying 14,000 KRW if
bought separately, you will save 4,000 KRW on this one.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span class="apple-converted-space"><span style="background: #F7F7F7; color: #666666; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 9.0pt; line-height: 115%;">The palace was relatively near (actually a stone’s throw
away) from where I’m staying so it was best to just walk towards it. It took me
15 minutes at a leisurely pace. <o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span class="apple-converted-space"><span style="background: #F7F7F7; color: #666666; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 9.0pt; line-height: 115%;">When I got to the designated meeting place, I saw my
walking tour guide holding a piece of paper that contained all the names of
those who registered for the tour. I introduced myself and he warmly greeted me
back. As it was already 10:00am, he told me to watch the Changing of the Guards
ceremony first before purchasing my ticket and going on with the walking tour.<o:p></o:p></span></span><br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">the change of the guards ceremony</td></tr>
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<span class="apple-converted-space"><span style="background: #F7F7F7; color: #666666; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 9.0pt; line-height: 115%;">I was amazed at how the Changing of the Guards ceremony was
performed. Watching it made me feel like I was transported back in time during
the heydays of the palace – all the costumes were vibrant in color and the
sounds of the drums echoed throughout the palace grounds. Everyone was surely
delighted in taking part of this reenactment of a historical event. The whole
ceremony took about 20-30 minutes to complete. <o:p></o:p></span></span><br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">got to have a photo with one of the guards</td></tr>
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<span class="apple-converted-space"><span style="background: #F7F7F7; color: #666666; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 9.0pt; line-height: 115%;">I then proceeded to buy the entrance ticket and regrouped
with my walking tour guide. Apparently, there are just two of us for today’s
tour – unfortunately, the other one failed to show up. After a few
introductions, I got to know that my fellow traveller was a newly graduated
student from Canada. I got to know that she is half Filipino too! <o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/32777953@N02/8600911244/" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" title="IMG_0443e by The Loft Prince, on Flickr"><img alt="IMG_0443e" height="375" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8247/8600911244_0039f99997.jpg" width="500" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Gyeongbokgung Palace ticket priced at 3,000 KRW</td></tr>
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<span class="apple-converted-space"><span style="background: #F7F7F7; color: #666666; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 9.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Built in 1395 (after just 3 years from the establishment of
the Joseon Dynasty), <b>Gyeongbokgung
Palace</b> served as the main palace for what spanned to more than 500 years. Although
destroyed during the Japanese invasion of 1592, the palace was rebuilt again in
1867 during the time of Prince Regent Heungseon Daewongun. <o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span class="apple-converted-space"><span style="background: #F7F7F7; color: #666666; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 9.0pt; line-height: 115%;">The <b>Gwanghwamun</b>
or the main gate is composed of 3 entrances – the central one exclusively reserved
for the king’s use. <o:p></o:p></span></span><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/32777953@N02/8599448831/" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" title="PB071310045e by The Loft Prince, on Flickr"><img alt="PB071310045e" height="375" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8389/8599448831_0c435e3a44.jpg" width="500" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">the overwhelming Gwanghwamun</td></tr>
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<span class="apple-converted-space"><span style="background: #F7F7F7; color: #666666; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 9.0pt; line-height: 115%;">We then proceeded to the <b>Geunjeongjeon</b>. This is the main throne hall and was used primarily
for the king’s state affairs. These include meetings and reception with foreign
envoys. However, the most important thing done here is the coronation ceremony.
<o:p></o:p></span></span><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/32777953@N02/8599435825/" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" title="PB071425160e by The Loft Prince, on Flickr"><img alt="PB071425160e" height="375" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8233/8599435825_d960eaa431.jpg" width="500" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">at the center of Geunjeongjeon</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/32777953@N02/8599446655/" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" title="PB071317052e by The Loft Prince, on Flickr"><img alt="PB071317052e" height="375" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8371/8599446655_e82a5ce8ef.jpg" width="500" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">how the throne hall looks like inside</td></tr>
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<span class="apple-converted-space"><span style="background: #F7F7F7; color: #666666; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 9.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ansi-language: EN-PH; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-bidi; mso-fareast-font-family: "MS Mincho"; mso-fareast-language: JA; mso-fareast-theme-font: minor-fareast;">As we moved towards the <b>Sujeongjeon</b> (formerly known as the Jiphyeonjeon), we noticed a
large empty space. We were told that there were numerous government buildings
there before. However, these were removed by the Japanese for an expo in 1915.
Anyway, this particular building is highly significant because it is here where
the Korean alphabet, Hangeul, was invented under King Sejong.</span></span><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/32777953@N02/8600537088/" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" title="PB071408143e by The Loft Prince, on Flickr"><img alt="PB071408143e" height="375" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8377/8600537088_ae7479b07f.jpg" width="500" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">the infamous Sujeongjeon where Hangeul was invented</td></tr>
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<span class="apple-converted-space"><span style="background: #F7F7F7; color: #666666; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 9.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ansi-language: EN-PH; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-bidi; mso-fareast-font-family: "MS Mincho"; mso-fareast-language: JA; mso-fareast-theme-font: minor-fareast;">Found this post informative and useful? Perhaps you've visited this palace before? Feel free to share your opinions and experiences by commenting below or by using the Contact button on the right.</span></span><br />
<span class="apple-converted-space"><span style="background: #F7F7F7; color: #666666; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 9.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ansi-language: EN-PH; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-bidi; mso-fareast-font-family: "MS Mincho"; mso-fareast-language: JA; mso-fareast-theme-font: minor-fareast;"><br /></span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span class="apple-converted-space"><span style="background: #F7F7F7; color: #666666; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 9.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ansi-language: EN-PH; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-bidi; mso-fareast-font-family: "MS Mincho"; mso-fareast-language: JA; mso-fareast-theme-font: minor-fareast;">Up next, culture seeking at <a href="http://theloftprince.blogspot.com/2013/03/seoul-day-4-culture-seeking-at_31.html"><span style="color: blue;"><b>Gyeongbokgung Palace (Part 2)</b></span></a>.</span></span></div>
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<span class="apple-converted-space"><span style="background: #F7F7F7; color: #666666; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 9.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ansi-language: EN-PH; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-bidi; mso-fareast-font-family: "MS Mincho"; mso-fareast-language: JA; mso-fareast-theme-font: minor-fareast;"><br /></span></span></div>
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<span class="apple-converted-space"><span style="background: #F7F7F7; color: #666666; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 9.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ansi-language: EN-PH; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-bidi; mso-fareast-font-family: "MS Mincho"; mso-fareast-language: JA; mso-fareast-theme-font: minor-fareast;">Yes, I actually had to breakdown this post into two parts since I realized how long it actually was after reviewing it. </span></span><br />
<span class="apple-converted-space"><span style="background: #F7F7F7; color: #666666; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 9.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ansi-language: EN-PH; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-bidi; mso-fareast-font-family: "MS Mincho"; mso-fareast-language: JA; mso-fareast-theme-font: minor-fareast;"><br /></span></span>
<span class="apple-converted-space"><span style="background: #F7F7F7; color: #666666; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 9.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ansi-language: EN-PH; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-bidi; mso-fareast-font-family: "MS Mincho"; mso-fareast-language: JA; mso-fareast-theme-font: minor-fareast;">Want to discover more about my <a href="http://theloftprince.blogspot.com/2012/12/seoul-south-korea-5-days-4-nights.html"><b><span style="color: #990000;">5 Days and 4 Nights in Seoul</span></b></a>, South Korea? Just click the link.</span></span></div>
Daryl | The Loft Princehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14662589755240540856noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3034097485415961847.post-50250259766401842332013-03-22T00:39:00.000+08:002014-04-27T14:23:49.288+08:00Hong Kong - 5 Days / 4 Nights Itinerary <br />
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<span class="apple-converted-space"><span style="background: #F7F7F7; color: #666666; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 9.0pt; line-height: 115%;">My family went to Hong Kong for a vacation last February. <o:p></o:p></span></span><br />
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<span class="apple-converted-space"><span style="background: #F7F7F7; color: #666666; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 9.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Although I frequent this place, I seem to never get tired
of it. Hong Kong always has something new to offer each time I visit. Such a
dynamic city worth coming back to!<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span class="apple-converted-space"><span style="background: #F7F7F7; color: #666666; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 9.0pt; line-height: 115%;">The weather was just right at that time – not too cold but
not too warm. I actually got to wear clothes that I enjoy sporting when going
around town.<o:p></o:p></span></span><br />
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<span class="apple-converted-space"><span style="background: #F7F7F7; color: #666666; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 9.0pt; line-height: 115%;">As we wanted a more relaxed trip, I listed down just a few
places to visit per day. With that, we can have a relaxed and unhurried pace.</span></span><br />
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<span class="apple-converted-space"><span style="background: #F7F7F7; color: #666666; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 9.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Here’s what our itinerary looked like.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span class="apple-converted-space"><b><span style="background: #F7F7F7; color: #666666; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 9.0pt;">Day 1</span></b></span><span class="apple-converted-space"><span style="background: #F7F7F7; color: #666666; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 9.0pt;">:<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span class="apple-converted-space"><span style="background: #F7F7F7; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 9.0pt;"><span style="color: #666666;">Reminiscing
childhood at </span><b><a href="http://theloftprince.blogspot.com/2013/04/hong-kong-day-1-reminiscing-childhood.html"><span style="color: blue;">Hong Kong Disneyland</span></a><span style="color: #666666;"><o:p></o:p></span></b></span></span></div>
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<span class="apple-converted-space"><span style="background: #F7F7F7; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 9.0pt;"><span style="color: #666666;">Bargain
hunting at </span><b><a href="http://theloftprince.blogspot.com/2013/04/hong-kong-day-1-bargain-hunting-at.html"><span style="color: blue;">Mongkok </span></a></b><span style="color: #666666;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></span></div>
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<span class="apple-converted-space"><b><span style="background: #F7F7F7; color: #666666; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 9.0pt;">Day 2</span></b></span><span class="apple-converted-space"><span style="background: #F7F7F7; color: #666666; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 9.0pt;">:<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span class="apple-converted-space"><span style="background: #F7F7F7; color: #666666; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 9.0pt;">Lunch
at<b> Chung’s Cuisine at Stanley Plaza<o:p></o:p></b></span></span></div>
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<span class="apple-converted-space"><span style="background: #F7F7F7; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 9.0pt;"><span style="color: #666666;">Enjoying
the seaside atmosphere at </span><b><a href="http://theloftprince.blogspot.com/2014/01/hong-kong-day-2-enjoying-seaside.html"><span style="color: blue;">Stanley Bay</span></a><span style="color: #666666;"><o:p></o:p></span></b></span></span></div>
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<span class="apple-converted-space"><span style="background: #F7F7F7; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 9.0pt;"><span style="color: #666666;">Finding
cultural treasures at </span><b><a href="http://theloftprince.blogspot.com/2014/01/hong-kong-day-2-enjoying-seaside.html"><span style="color: blue;">Stanley Market</span></a><span style="color: #666666;"><o:p></o:p></span></b></span></span></div>
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<span class="apple-converted-space"><span style="background: #F7F7F7; color: #666666; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 9.0pt;">Mall
hopping and shopping at<b> Causeway Bay<o:p></o:p></b></span></span></div>
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<span class="apple-converted-space"><b><span style="background: #F7F7F7; color: #666666; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 9.0pt;">Day 3</span></b></span><span class="apple-converted-space"><span style="background: #F7F7F7; color: #666666; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 9.0pt;">:<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span class="apple-converted-space"><span style="background: #F7F7F7; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 9.0pt;"><span style="color: #666666;">Finding
inner peace at the </span><b><a href="http://theloftprince.blogspot.com/2014/01/hong-kong-day-3-finding-inner-peace-at.html"><span style="color: blue;">Ten Thousand BuddhasMonastery</span></a></b><span style="color: #666666;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></span></div>
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<span class="apple-converted-space"><span style="background: #F7F7F7; color: #666666; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 9.0pt;">Strolling
around the <b>New Town Plaza </b>complex<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span class="apple-converted-space"><span style="background: #F7F7F7; color: #666666; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 9.0pt;">Dinner
and shopping at <b>Tsim Sha Tsui</b><o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span class="apple-converted-space"><b><span style="background: #F7F7F7; color: #666666; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 9.0pt;">Day 4</span></b></span><span class="apple-converted-space"><span style="background: #F7F7F7; color: #666666; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 9.0pt;">:<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span class="apple-converted-space"><span style="background: #F7F7F7; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 9.0pt;"><span style="color: #666666;">Appreciating
nature at </span><b><a href="http://theloftprince.blogspot.com/2014/02/hong-kong-day-4-appreciating-nature-at.html"><span style="color: blue;">Nan Lian Garden</span></a></b><span style="color: #666666;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></span></div>
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<span class="apple-converted-space"><span style="background: #F7F7F7; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 9.0pt;"><span style="color: #666666;">Joining
in prayer at the </span><b><a href="http://theloftprince.blogspot.com/2014/04/hong-kong-day-4-joining-in-prayer-at.html"><span style="color: blue;">Chi Lin Nunnery</span></a><span style="color: #666666;"><o:p></o:p></span></b></span></span></div>
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<span class="apple-converted-space"><span style="background: #F7F7F7; color: #666666; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 9.0pt;">Going
around <b>Plaza Hollywood</b><o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span class="apple-converted-space"><b><span style="background: #F7F7F7; color: #666666; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 9.0pt;">Day 5</span></b></span><span class="apple-converted-space"><span style="background: #F7F7F7; color: #666666; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 9.0pt;">:<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span class="apple-converted-space"><span style="background: #F7F7F7; color: #666666; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 9.0pt;">Lunch
at <b>Wired Cafe<o:p></o:p></b></span></span></div>
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<span class="apple-converted-space"><span style="background: #F7F7F7; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 9.0pt;"><span style="color: #666666;">Last
minute shopping and grocery hunting at </span><b><a href="http://theloftprince.blogspot.com/2014/03/hong-kong-day-5-last-minute-shopping.html"><span style="color: blue;">CausewayBay</span></a></b><span style="color: #666666;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></span></div>
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<span class="apple-converted-space"><span style="background: #F7F7F7; color: #666666; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 9.0pt;">Dinner
at <b>Hong Kong International Airport</b><o:p></o:p></span></span><br />
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<span class="apple-converted-space"><span style="background-color: #f7f7f7; color: #666666; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 12px;"><b><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/32777953@N02/8577005117/" title="P2011680130e by The Loft Prince, on Flickr"><img alt="P2011680130e" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8102/8577005117_33b2dfbda1.jpg" height="375" width="500" /></a></b></span></span></div>
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<span class="apple-converted-space"><span style="background: #F7F7F7; color: #666666; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 9.0pt; line-height: 115%;">I’ll be going into the details of our Hong Kong trip in the
succeeding posts so watch out for it!<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
Daryl | The Loft Princehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14662589755240540856noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3034097485415961847.post-78555796523881932302013-02-24T14:34:00.003+08:002013-08-09T22:39:18.757+08:00Seoul Day 3 - Lunch at Flora by Chef Cho Woo Hyun<br />
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<span style="background: #F7F7F7; color: #666666; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 9.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Between touring
Changdeokgung Palace and Insadong, I came to <b>Flora by Chef Cho Woo Hyun</b> for lunch. Conveniently situated at the hilly
neighbourhood of Samcheongdong, it was a great place to have a quiet and relaxed
lunch.<o:p></o:p></span><br />
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<span style="background: #F7F7F7; color: #666666; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 9.0pt; line-height: 115%;">The main reason for
going here is that I wanted a break from eating all forms of Asian cuisine.
Seeing that this restaurant is primarily serving Italian cuisine, I immediately
considered dining here. Besides, I want to try how Italian dishes taste here in
Seoul. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="background: #F7F7F7; color: #666666; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 9.0pt; line-height: 115%;">It took me quite some
time to browse the menu since I wanted to see all the dishes that they serve
before deciding on what to get. What made the decision making process harder
was that everything seemed so appealing! <o:p></o:p></span><br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">view from my table</td></tr>
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<span style="background: #F7F7F7; color: #666666; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 9.0pt; line-height: 115%;">I ended up ordering a risotto dish since I wanted a
filling rice meal to give me energy for the rest of the day. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="background: #F7F7F7; color: #666666; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 9.0pt; line-height: 115%;">As I was waiting for
my order, one of the servers brought me a complimentary bread platter. Such a
pleasant surprise! It had 4 different types of bread. I had to say that each
one was delicious! </span><span style="background-color: #f7f7f7; color: #666666; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 9pt; line-height: 115%;">However, my favorite of all was this purplish looking bread
as it exudes a subtle yet flavorful taste. I just wish I knew what it was
called so I can hunt for it at some local bake shops.</span><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/32777953@N02/8502868576/" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" title="2012-11-06 13.38e by The Loft Prince, on Flickr"><img alt="2012-11-06 13.38e" height="375" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8377/8502868576_eca9fb38b7.jpg" width="500" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">complimentary bread platter</td></tr>
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<span style="background: #F7F7F7; color: #666666; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 9.0pt; line-height: 115%;">When the <b>Seafood Risotto</b> arrived at my table, the
first thing I noticed was how much seafood was in it – it was a lot! I guess
one thing to note while still on the onset is that this dish got the value of
my money. As for the taste, the risotto just had the right amount of creaminess
to it. This actually balanced the salty taste of the seafood very well. I also
like how the seafood in this dish – shrimps, mussels, clams, fish, and squid –
is so fresh! <o:p></o:p></span><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/32777953@N02/8502868754/" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" title="2012-11-06 13.43e by The Loft Prince, on Flickr"><img alt="2012-11-06 13.43e" height="375" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8384/8502868754_8ee1c3cf73.jpg" width="500" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Seafood Risotto - 23,000 KRW</td></tr>
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<span style="background: #F7F7F7; color: #666666; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 9.0pt; line-height: 115%;">To end my dining
experience, a small but delicious dessert was brought my way. Another unexpected
moment! Fact is I did not order any dessert. In any case, this fruit and cream
concoction was delightful – not too sweet and bursting with flavors.<o:p></o:p></span><br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">simple and light dessert</td></tr>
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<span style="background: #F7F7F7; color: #666666; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 9.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Another thing which
enhanced my dining experience here were the interiors. The restaurant décor and
set-up was sophisticated. Nonetheless, it did not give off that stiffness that
other fine dining restaurants have. It must have been the good blend between
the use of natural light and artificial ones. The frames and photos on the
walls exuded a homey feel as well. <o:p></o:p></span><br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">natural light permeating the restaurant</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">interiors and decor</td></tr>
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<span style="background: #F7F7F7; color: #666666; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 9.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Being quite on the
high-end side of things, the restaurant boasts of quality ingredients prepared
rigorously to produce first class meals. True to that, I experienced one of the
best meals here in Flora. <o:p></o:p></span><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/32777953@N02/8502867858/" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" title="PB061164121e by The Loft Prince, on Flickr"><img alt="PB061164121e" height="500" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8235/8502867858_c09cab8477.jpg" width="375" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Cho Woo Hyun - Korea Master Chef</td></tr>
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<span style="background: #F7F7F7; color: #666666; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 9.0pt; line-height: 115%;">I would definitely love
to go back here again to dine when in Seoul.<o:p></o:p></span><br />
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<span style="background-color: #f7f7f7; background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial; color: #666666; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 12px; line-height: 13px;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/32777953@N02/8501762995/" title="2012-11-06 14.25e by The Loft Prince, on Flickr"><img alt="2012-11-06 14.25e" height="375" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8529/8501762995_9ea8fc7732.jpg" width="500" /></a></span><br />
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<div style="text-align: left;">
Want to discover more about my <a href="http://theloftprince.blogspot.com/2012/12/seoul-south-korea-5-days-4-nights.html"><b><span style="color: #990000;">5 Days and 4 Nights in Seoul</span></b></a>, South Korea? Just click the link.</div>
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Daryl | The Loft Princehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14662589755240540856noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3034097485415961847.post-69601904541017920232013-02-14T21:57:00.001+08:002013-02-14T21:57:12.691+08:00Chelsea Market & Café at the Podium<br />
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<span style="background: #F7F7F7; color: #666666; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 9.0pt; line-height: 115%;">While at the Podium,
one restaurant immediately piqued our interest. This is the <b>Chelsea Market & Café</b> located on the ground floor. With both an al fresco and indoor dining
space, the restaurant caters to various types of diners.</span></div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">interiors</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/32777953@N02/8473717660/" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" title="2013-01-06 19.33e by The Loft Prince, on Flickr"><img alt="2013-01-06 19.33e" height="375" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8384/8473717660_653f2f558f.jpg" width="500" /></a></td></tr>
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<span style="background: #F7F7F7; color: #666666; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 9.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Since the servings here
seem to be a lot, we opted to skip the starters. We simply ordered a variety of
main dishes. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="background: #F7F7F7; color: #666666; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 9.0pt; line-height: 115%;">While waiting for our orders
to arrive, a complimentary bread platter was served. The bread here is unique. It’s
not your simple loaf as it contains a lot of different herbs which adds many
flavors. Also, I appreciate the garlic garnish that comes with the bread. <o:p></o:p></span><br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">complimentary bread platter</td></tr>
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<span style="background: #F7F7F7; color: #666666; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 9.0pt; line-height: 115%;">For the pasta dish, we
got <b>Baked Herb Chicken & Spinach
Gorgonzola Cream Rigatoni</b>. I like how they made the sauce to be so rich and
creamy. It makes perfect contrast to the tender strips of baked chicken on top.
The addition of walnuts into this mixture adds another layer of taste which
will make you want to have more! <o:p></o:p></span><br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/32777953@N02/8472629425/" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" title="20130106_193731_LLSe by The Loft Prince, on Flickr"><img alt="20130106_193731_LLSe" height="500" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8106/8472629425_e6a85596e9.jpg" width="375" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Baked Herb Chicken & Spinach Gorgonzola Cream Rigatoni - 495 PHP</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<span style="background: #F7F7F7; color: #666666; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 9.0pt; line-height: 115%;">I really enjoyed the <b>Southern Style Cornflake & Oatmeal
Crusted Fried Chicken in a Basket</b>. It was crispy on the outside but oh so
juicy in the inside. Who would have thought that using cereals to coat your
fried chicken will make more appealing to the palette? Also, another thing I liked
is that it does not leave your mouth with a greasy feel afterwards. The side
salad that came with this dish complements it very well. It was a delight to bite
into a piece of chicken and a bunch of greens at the same time. Oh yeah, I find
the vinaigrette on this salad to be very delicious! <o:p></o:p></span><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/32777953@N02/8472630153/" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" title="20130106_195145e by The Loft Prince, on Flickr"><img alt="20130106_195145e" height="375" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8375/8472630153_bd1b3b8c24.jpg" width="500" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Southern Style Cornflake & Oatmeal Crusted Fried Chicken in a Basket - 495 PHP</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<span style="background: #F7F7F7; color: #666666; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 9.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Another meat dish we
got was <b>Grilled Maple Cider Glazed
Bone-In Pork Chop</b>. I like the fact there the marinade of the pork chop
seeped into the meat very well. You can taste the flavors from within the meat.
It was cooked very well too – not to firm but not too soft either. I appreciated
the mashed potatoes that came along with this dish as well – smooth and creamy.<o:p></o:p></span><br />
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<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/32777953@N02/8472630681/" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" title="20130106_195136e by The Loft Prince, on Flickr"><img alt="20130106_195136e" height="375" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8369/8472630681_ff66077264.jpg" width="500" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Grilled Maple Cider Glazed Bone-In Pork Chop - 475 PHP</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<span style="background: #F7F7F7; color: #666666; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 9.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Last but not least was
the <b>Slow-Cooked Herbed Norwegian Salmon</b>.
The fish was nicely prepared. You can its freshness from the taste it gives off.
The sauce pairs well with the fish while the pine nuts add a little bit of
contrast. Overall, it was clean tasting and refreshing. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/32777953@N02/8473718286/" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" title="20130106_195128e by The Loft Prince, on Flickr"><img alt="20130106_195128e" height="375" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8099/8473718286_6b87467408.jpg" width="500" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Slow-Cooked Herbed Norwegian Salmon - 495 PHP</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<span style="background: #F7F7F7; color: #666666; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 9.0pt; line-height: 115%;">The presentation of
the food here at Chelsea Market & Café was worth taking note of – makes you
visually appreciate the food as well. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="background: #F7F7F7; color: #666666; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 9.0pt; line-height: 115%;">I’m sure we’ll be back
here again to try out their other appetizing dishes!<o:p></o:p></span></div>
</div>
Daryl | The Loft Princehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14662589755240540856noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3034097485415961847.post-70353055631914194552013-01-30T09:56:00.000+08:002013-08-09T22:38:58.009+08:00Seoul Day 3 - Experiencing the Seoul Lantern Festival 2012 at Cheonggyecheon<br />
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<span style="background: #F7F7F7; color: #666666; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 9.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Earlier that day, I
heard from my walking tour guide about the <b>Seoul
Lantern Festival</b>. She said that it would be a nice experience for me to drop
by the <b>Cheonggyecheon</b> area for this
event.<o:p></o:p></span><br />
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<span style="background: #F7F7F7; color: #666666; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 9.0pt; line-height: 115%;">I welcomed this
suggestion and went there after having a hearty dinner. Since this was near
Insadong, I simply walked over to the place. While on my way, I imagined the
festival installations to be purely made of traditional themed lanterns.
However, once I got there, I was pleasantly surprised. There were so many
larger than life lantern installations – most of them depicting cultural or
historical themes of Korea. <o:p></o:p></span><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/32777953@N02/8426217765/" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" title="PB061242199e by The Loft Prince, on Flickr"><img alt="PB061242199e" height="375" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8215/8426217765_f34ef58407.jpg" width="500" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Seoul Lantern Festival 2012</td></tr>
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<span style="background: #F7F7F7; color: #666666; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 9.0pt; line-height: 115%;">I took my time to
examine most of the lanterns displayed at the center of the stream. I’ll let
the pictures do most of the talking for this one.<o:p></o:p></span><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/32777953@N02/8427322236/" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" title="PB061210167e by The Loft Prince, on Flickr"><img alt="PB061210167e" height="375" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8223/8427322236_9538a1e6a4.jpg" width="500" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">man and woman</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/32777953@N02/8426235865/" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" title="PB061201158e by The Loft Prince, on Flickr"><img alt="PB061201158e" height="375" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8049/8426235865_d449cf3f44.jpg" width="500" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">family picnic</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/32777953@N02/8426234191/" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" title="PB061204161e by The Loft Prince, on Flickr"><img alt="PB061204161e" height="375" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8098/8426234191_5a3c151bfc.jpg" width="500" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">kite flying</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/32777953@N02/8426222233/" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" title="PB061229186e by The Loft Prince, on Flickr"><img alt="PB061229186e" height="375" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8512/8426222233_31763dfcc8.jpg" width="500" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">traditional orchestra</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/32777953@N02/8426225027/" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" title="PB061218175e by The Loft Prince, on Flickr"><img alt="PB061218175e" height="375" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8049/8426225027_565883409d.jpg" width="500" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">parade</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/32777953@N02/8426224537/" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" title="PB061225182e by The Loft Prince, on Flickr"><img alt="PB061225182e" height="375" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8372/8426224537_270f5866a7.jpg" width="500" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">taken captive</td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/32777953@N02/8427310746/" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" title="PB061236193e by The Loft Prince, on Flickr"><img alt="PB061236193e" height="375" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8071/8427310746_166a9cddb7.jpg" width="500" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">palace gates</td></tr>
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<span style="background: #F7F7F7; color: #666666; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 9.0pt; line-height: 115%;">At the top of the
waterfall, you can find the largest installation. It was a miniature version of
historical Seoul. Such a great piece of art if you ask me! The effort that went
to this creation was superb. You can see all the intricate details which make
the whole thing seem so real.<o:p></o:p></span><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/32777953@N02/8427307794/" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" title="PB061251207e by The Loft Prince, on Flickr"><img alt="PB061251207e" height="375" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8504/8427307794_0d7b4a1439.jpg" width="500" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">city of Seoul</td></tr>
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<span style="background: #F7F7F7; color: #666666; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 9.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="background: #F7F7F7; color: #666666; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 9.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Apart from gazing at
these beautifully made lanterns, there are other activities to try out at the
festival. <o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="background: #F7F7F7; color: #666666; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 9.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="background: #F7F7F7; color: #666666; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 9.0pt; line-height: 115%;">At the plaza
underneath one of the bridges, there are many stalls where you can buy festival
memorabilia. <o:p></o:p></span><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/32777953@N02/8426227635/" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" title="PB061215172e by The Loft Prince, on Flickr"><img alt="PB061215172e" height="375" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8326/8426227635_69fb9a010f.jpg" width="500" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">booths</td></tr>
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<span style="background: #F7F7F7; color: #666666; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 9.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="background: #F7F7F7; color: #666666; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 9.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Also, you can make a
wish for a small donation. Attendants here will give you a yellow strip of
paper in the shape of a dragon’s scale where you can write your wish.
Afterwards, you paste it onto the wired dragon shaped structure. As this is a
lantern festival, these dragons are displayed and light up too with everybody’s
wishes! A good way to leave an imprint here at Seoul if you ask me!<o:p></o:p></span><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/32777953@N02/8426229283/" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" title="PB061214171e by The Loft Prince, on Flickr"><img alt="PB061214171e" height="375" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8044/8426229283_361c0fc30a.jpg" width="500" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">dragon made of wishes</td></tr>
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<span style="background: #F7F7F7; color: #666666; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 9.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="background: #F7F7F7; color: #666666; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 9.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Another way to make a
wish is via the floating lanterns. Of course, these come with a small donation
as well. Attendants will give you a small floating lantern where you can write
your wish. Then, you can release it at the stream for the water to make your
dreams into reality. I find this very artistic and sentimental at the same
time.<o:p></o:p></span><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/32777953@N02/8427323798/" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" title="PB061208165e by The Loft Prince, on Flickr"><img alt="PB061208165e" height="375" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8378/8427323798_d536e98e4e.jpg" width="500" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">floating wish lanterns</td></tr>
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<span style="background: #F7F7F7; color: #666666; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 9.0pt; line-height: 115%;">For those who are
looking for a vacation of some sort, there are booths that promote travel too. I
even stumbled into a booth showcasing my country, the Philippines. As the booth
was drawing in lots of the crowd, I went in to see what the commotion was
about. Apparently, they were raffling out Philippine souvenir items. It was really
cool to see that the Philippines is making such a hype here in Korea!<o:p></o:p></span><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/32777953@N02/8427317260/" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" title="PB061217174e by The Loft Prince, on Flickr"><img alt="PB061217174e" height="375" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8512/8427317260_1a2f4cf8f6.jpg" width="500" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Philippine Tourism booth</td></tr>
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<span style="background: #F7F7F7; color: #666666; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 9.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Oh yeah, as I also
joined the raffle, I won this neat looking umbrella with the imprint of “It’s
More Fun in the Philippines”. A great local souvenir from a foreign land!<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="background: #F7F7F7; color: #666666; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 9.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/32777953@N02/8426236045/" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" title="umbrella by The Loft Prince, on Flickr"><img alt="umbrella" height="500" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8468/8426236045_3cb368eec9.jpg" width="500" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">"it's more fun in the Philippines" umbrella</td></tr>
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<span style="background: #F7F7F7; color: #666666; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 9.0pt; line-height: 115%;">This lantern festival
in Seoul sure made my trip more delightful as I got to experience a lively part
of local culture.<o:p></o:p></span><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/32777953@N02/8427314400/" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" title="PB061226183e by The Loft Prince, on Flickr"><img alt="PB061226183e" height="375" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8235/8427314400_2b7270a2fc.jpg" width="500" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">signal</td></tr>
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<span style="background-color: #f7f7f7; color: #666666; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 12px;">Were you amazed with the beauty of these gigantic lanterns like I was? Perhaps you've been here too during the festival? Tell me about your experiences by commenting below or by using the Contact button on the right.</span></div>
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<span style="background: #F7F7F7; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 9.0pt;"><span style="color: #666666;">Up next, </span><span class="apple-converted-space"><span style="color: #666666;">Culture
seeking at </span><b><a href="http://theloftprince.blogspot.com/2013/03/seoul-day-4-culture-seeking-at.html"><span style="color: blue;">Gyeongbokgung Palace</span></a></b><span style="color: #666666;">. <o:p></o:p></span></span></span><br />
<span style="background: #F7F7F7; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 9.0pt;"><span class="apple-converted-space"><span style="color: #666666;"><br /></span></span></span>
<span style="background: #F7F7F7; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 9.0pt;"><span class="apple-converted-space"><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: small;">Want to discover more about my </span><a href="http://theloftprince.blogspot.com/2012/12/seoul-south-korea-5-days-4-nights.html" style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: medium;"><b><span style="color: #990000;">5 Days and 4 Nights in Seoul</span></b></a><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: small;">, South Korea? Just click the link.</span></span></span></div>
Daryl | The Loft Princehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14662589755240540856noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3034097485415961847.post-51038897005699057492013-01-25T20:30:00.000+08:002013-04-28T13:01:49.521+08:00Seoul Day 3 - Finding hidden treasures at Insadong<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<span class="apple-converted-space"><span style="background: #F7F7F7; color: #666666; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 9.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Continuing the day with another cultural site, I went to
visit <b>Insadong</b> in the afternoon. As
I am staying at the Samcheongdong area, I reached my destination in only 15 minutes
– simply by walking. No sweat to it!<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhjfh56dlM_vXeKmPGbDe2ObMYokSNqRhLFEyoKtFMOjXTa4roRJvzBOcWSaV9HU8UcJ8UUdQqc3v_avXNw58eo7N9DMEyZ7WbNvmmvb1yKUPJNw47ubUw0BXKuZmu3HQVbXBnyXnIk3QFq/s1600/993738_mapImg_1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhjfh56dlM_vXeKmPGbDe2ObMYokSNqRhLFEyoKtFMOjXTa4roRJvzBOcWSaV9HU8UcJ8UUdQqc3v_avXNw58eo7N9DMEyZ7WbNvmmvb1yKUPJNw47ubUw0BXKuZmu3HQVbXBnyXnIk3QFq/s400/993738_mapImg_1.jpg" width="307" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">map of Insadong<br />
courtesy of http://english.visitkorea.or.kr</td></tr>
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<span class="apple-converted-space"><span style="background: #F7F7F7; color: #666666; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 9.0pt; line-height: 115%;">From the main highway, the stretch of Insadong does not seem
very intriguing as you can only see the usual urban landscape. However, after a
few meters into the street, shops selling all kinds of traditional products
abound. If you are looking for a product related to Korean culture and
heritage, then this is the place to get it. No other part of Seoul can compare
to the wide array of choices that the shops here offer! <o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgdhbS00hZcoiJ7xXXGmbJFKnZnIvj6srSQ2_PhWwrQOG4jLUk-E-0Yu2h8JgoV7H52A2egVwCj67D7WOekG9V8fbuzUrPSlSrBVA7o5qxA4DOlyLu9yVio5vzaEN-YrgD1U35zB_d6F1x7/s1600/insadong+shops.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgdhbS00hZcoiJ7xXXGmbJFKnZnIvj6srSQ2_PhWwrQOG4jLUk-E-0Yu2h8JgoV7H52A2egVwCj67D7WOekG9V8fbuzUrPSlSrBVA7o5qxA4DOlyLu9yVio5vzaEN-YrgD1U35zB_d6F1x7/s400/insadong+shops.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">shops at Insadong<br />
courtesy of http://english.visitkorea.or.kr</td></tr>
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<span style="background: #F7F7F7; color: #666666; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 9.0pt; line-height: 115%;">There were also many stores
selling Korean snacks. Most of their products really look tasty if you ask me! Although
I wanted to sample all, I just picked out one in order to satisfy my cravings
for such at time. I had no regrets in choosing this rice cake filled
with red bean paste! Worth about 2,000 KRW for about a dozen pieces, it sure
was value for money. More than that, it was truly delicious and filling at the
same time! <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhkg3QUNmScqGP50Ex2dEsv4nr4alBCr-U1HYUJCPuUUfMZk5G_SI9OhQm2SPAiSBGB2R-2UsorvmPObgF6M25rwrEaVHnLETXnxYu6oUdsVd5dKcV8QqOlMnqLhImQSinIxeymccYDIJPF/s1600/P1140166-resized-600.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhkg3QUNmScqGP50Ex2dEsv4nr4alBCr-U1HYUJCPuUUfMZk5G_SI9OhQm2SPAiSBGB2R-2UsorvmPObgF6M25rwrEaVHnLETXnxYu6oUdsVd5dKcV8QqOlMnqLhImQSinIxeymccYDIJPF/s400/P1140166-resized-600.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">red bean rice cake<br />
courtesy of http://blog.aclipse.net</td></tr>
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<span style="background: #F7F7F7; color: #666666; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 9.0pt; line-height: 115%;">It’s interesting to
watch how these snacks are made as well. Most of the shopkeepers here attract
customers by demonstrating the techniques used to create these well-loved snack
items. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg99fgQV4cUliujJukxEC95GJvc2-rhsr4HWTlWwzbe1etuWhRtFRmxGnrt3-b4kXJ1OhjIvXewWWp0JdnKvgF1Uy4EsiPulF3VVH0tJxW0kNmnSEy1fCmvpL9pSm3GBYXn5OAnqFk2Ixdb/s1600/insadong-snacks-stall.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="267" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg99fgQV4cUliujJukxEC95GJvc2-rhsr4HWTlWwzbe1etuWhRtFRmxGnrt3-b4kXJ1OhjIvXewWWp0JdnKvgF1Uy4EsiPulF3VVH0tJxW0kNmnSEy1fCmvpL9pSm3GBYXn5OAnqFk2Ixdb/s400/insadong-snacks-stall.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Korean snack stalls<br />
courtesy of http://www.mangovine.net</td></tr>
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<span style="background-color: #f7f7f7; background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial;"><span style="color: #666666; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: 9pt; line-height: 115%;">One place here famous
for its structure and novelty is </span></span><b style="color: #666666; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 9pt; line-height: 115%;">Ssamziegil</b><span style="color: #666666; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: 9pt; line-height: 115%;">.
The structure of the building is unique in a way that all floors are connected
like a </span><span style="font-size: 12px; line-height: 13px;">spiraling</span><span style="font-size: 9pt; line-height: 115%;"> staircase. <o:p></o:p></span></span></span></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/32777953@N02/8414048282/" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" title="PB061190147e by The Loft Prince, on Flickr"><img alt="PB061190147e" height="500" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8044/8414048282_c69b67fb1f.jpg" width="375" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">view of Ssamziegil from the top</td></tr>
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<span style="background: #F7F7F7; color: #666666; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 9.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Apart from that,
there’s also a gardened corridor near the top which leads you to the rooftop
park. You can enjoy a relaxing time here while sitting on a bench and gazing at
the sky. With tired feet, I definitely took some time to rest at this spot. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/32777953@N02/8412948127/" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" title="PB061193150e by The Loft Prince, on Flickr"><img alt="PB061193150e" height="500" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8377/8412948127_51cec622d0.jpg" width="375" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">gardened corridor</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/32777953@N02/8412948869/" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" title="PB061191148e by The Loft Prince, on Flickr"><img alt="PB061191148e" height="375" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8238/8412948869_3266f1479f.jpg" width="500" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">rooftop terrace</td></tr>
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<span style="background: #F7F7F7; color: #666666; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 9.0pt; line-height: 115%;">There are many shops
here – like a mini version of Insadong actually. Some of the shops include
souvenir shops, clothing stores, handicraft stalls, and cafés to name a few. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/32777953@N02/8414049130/" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" title="PB061184141e by The Loft Prince, on Flickr"><img alt="PB061184141e" height="375" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8363/8414049130_d36e30def8.jpg" width="500" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">stores at Ssamziegil</td></tr>
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<span style="background: #F7F7F7; color: #666666; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 9.0pt; line-height: 115%;">While already here, I
decided to look for a souvenir to bring home. I wanted one that will remind me
of my first trip to Korea. This search of mine took quite some time – not to
mention the countless stores that I had to go through. Finally, I managed to
pick out a wind chime worth 26,000 KRW. I like how it produces crisp sounds
that relax the nerves. It is similar to what I see at some traditional houses
and temples. Also, this item brings you good luck as many of the locals here
tell me. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">the lucky wind chime</td></tr>
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<span style="background: #F7F7F7; color: #666666; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 9.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Apart from that, I was
on the lookout for some Korean dolls my friend asked me to buy. Wanting to get
the best price for the right design, I scoured the many shops along the street.
I was able to find one priced at around 12,000 KRW with the same design
specifications my friend told me. Since it was already a good deal, I got it!<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Korean dolls<br />
courtesy of jidalakwatsera</td></tr>
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<span style="background: #F7F7F7; color: #666666; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 9.0pt; line-height: 115%;">It was great to look
around here at Insadong. You can find so many great bargains for Korean
traditional items. So if you’re into that, this place is a definite stop for
you!<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span class="apple-converted-space"><b><span style="background: #F7F7F7; color: #666666; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 9.0pt;">How to get here:</span></b></span><span class="apple-converted-space"><span style="background: #F7F7F7; color: #666666; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 9.0pt;"> <o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="background: #F7F7F7; color: #666666; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 9.0pt;">Anguk Station (Line 3, Exit 6)<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="background: #F7F7F7; color: #666666; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 9.0pt;">Jonggak Station(Line 1, Exit 3)<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="background: #F7F7F7; color: #666666; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 9.0pt;"><br /></span>
<span style="background: #F7F7F7; color: #666666; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 9.0pt;">Is shopping for cultural souvenirs always a part of your travel to-do list? Perhaps you've visited this place in the past? Feel free to share your opinions and experience with me by commenting below or by using the Contact button on the right.</span></div>
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<span style="background: #F7F7F7; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 9.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="color: #666666;">Up next, </span><span class="apple-converted-space"><span style="color: #666666;">Experiencing the Seoul Lantern Festival 2012 at </span><b><a href="http://theloftprince.blogspot.com/2013/01/day-3-experiencing-seoul-lantern.html"><span style="color: blue;">Cheonggyecheon</span></a></b><span style="color: #666666;">.</span></span><span style="color: #666666;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
Daryl | The Loft Princehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14662589755240540856noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3034097485415961847.post-81015459395953304982013-01-20T11:56:00.003+08:002013-08-09T22:38:49.474+08:00Seoul Day 3 – Discovering history at Changdeokgung Palace<br />
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<span class="apple-converted-space"><span style="background: #F7F7F7; color: #666666; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 9.0pt;">The
morning of my third day here at Seoul was reserved for a tour of the <b>Changdeokgung Palace</b>. As I wanted to
get to know more about Korea’s history and culture, I signed-up for a walking
tour of the place. The registration was
done online through this site: <a href="http://english.visitkorea.or.kr/"><b>http://english.visitkorea.or.kr</b></a> prior to my visit. Just fill
out a form and you will get a confirmation e-mail afterwards. The best thing
about this service is that it is absolutely free!<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">a close encounter with the throne hall</td></tr>
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<span class="apple-converted-space"><span style="background: #F7F7F7; color: #666666; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 9.0pt;">From
the place where I’m staying, the palace is just 20 minutes away on foot. Thus,
I simply walked towards it. <o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span class="apple-converted-space"><span style="background: #F7F7F7; color: #666666; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 9.0pt;">Upon
getting at the designated meeting spot, I saw my tour guide holding a placard
of the names of those who registered for the walking tour. I introduced myself
and she courteously greeted me back with a smile. After a short round of
introductions, I bought the entrance ticket to the palace worth 3,000 KRW. <o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">my ticket stub</td></tr>
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<span class="apple-converted-space"><b><span style="background: #F7F7F7; color: #666666; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 9.0pt; line-height: 115%;">TIP:</span></b></span><span class="apple-converted-space"><span style="background: #F7F7F7; color: #666666; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 9.0pt; line-height: 115%;"> If you
plan to visit the Jongmyo Shrine and the 4 palaces in Seoul, purchase the Integrated
Ticket of Palaces worth 10,000 KRW. Instead of paying 14,000 KRW if bought
separately, you will save 4,000 KRW on this one.</span></span><span class="apple-converted-space"><span style="background: white; color: #666666; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 9.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span class="apple-converted-space"><span style="background: #F7F7F7; color: #666666; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 9.0pt; line-height: 115%;">As our group was not yet complete, we waited another 15
minutes. Unfortunately, the other person cannot make it so we just went ahead.
Rain also started to fall at this point. Good thing I always bring my umbrella
with me!</span></span></div>
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<span class="apple-converted-space"><span style="background: #F7F7F7; color: #666666; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 9.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Constructed as a secondary palace of the Joseon Dynasty in
1405, Changdeokgung soon became the main palace after the Japanese invasion in
1598. It served as the residence of the royal family until Gyeongbokgung was
rebuilt in 1868. One distinguishing factor of this palace is how it was built in
harmony with the topography. UNESCO also recognized the cultural significance
of this palace in 1997 by adding it to the World Heritage List.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">the imposing Donhwamun</td></tr>
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<span class="apple-converted-space"><span style="background: #F7F7F7; color: #666666; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 9.0pt; line-height: 115%;">The first stop was the main gate, <b>Donhwamun</b>. Built in 1412 during the reign of King Taejong, this is
the largest of all palace gates. It used to house a bell and a drum on the
second floor to signal curfew hours.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">water flows serenely at the Geumcheon</td></tr>
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<span class="apple-converted-space"><span style="background: #F7F7F7; color: #666666; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 9.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Inside, you can find an auspicious stream called <b>Geumcheon</b>. In 1411, a bridge named <b>Geumcheongyo</b> was built – several lucky creatures
are perched here. As the oldest stone bridge remaining in Seoul today, this was
designated as Treasure No. 1762 just last year (2012). This bridge is the
distinctive structure that separates the inside of the palace from the outside.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">while crossing the Geumcheongyo</td></tr>
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<span class="apple-converted-space"><span style="background: #F7F7F7; color: #666666; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 9.0pt; line-height: 115%;">The throne hall, <b>Injeongjeon</b>,
is just located nearby. Serving as the area where major state affairs –
coronation of a new king and receiving foreign envoys – are conducted, this
place was massive in size. In 1908, the throne hall underwent modernization to
a more Western style having glass windows, lighting, curtains, and wooden
floors.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">photo at the front of Injeongjeon</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">the throne room at Injeongjeon</td></tr>
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<span class="apple-converted-space"><span style="background: #F7F7F7; color: #666666; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 9.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Located just beside the throne hall is the <b>Seonjeongjeon</b>. This is the place where
the king handled routine state affairs along with his high ranking officials. Also,
for those who did not notice, this is the only building within Changdeokgung
with a roof made up of blue tiles.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">inside the Seonjeongjeon</td></tr>
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<span class="apple-converted-space"><span style="background: #F7F7F7; color: #666666; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 9.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Afterwards, we proceeded to <b>Huijeongdang</b> – the king’s bed chamber. Although this was the
intended use of the structure, it soon turned into the king’s workplace. As
such, the king spent most of his time here. Apparently, his supposed office, the
Seonjeongjeon, was not big enough for that purpose.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">main entrance of the Huijeongdang</td></tr>
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<span class="apple-converted-space"><span style="background: #F7F7F7; color: #666666; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 9.0pt; line-height: 115%;">We went to the back to find <b>Daejojeon</b>, the queen’s residence. One historical event (albeit a
bit tragic) that happened here was the last cabinet meeting of the dynasty with
regards to Japan’s annexation of Joseon. Oh yeah, the last king’s and queen’s
bed chambers can still be found in this structure until now.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">main area of the Daejojeon</td></tr>
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<span class="apple-converted-space"><span style="background: #F7F7F7; color: #666666; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 9.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Just a few meters walk, we found ourselves at <b>Seongjeonggak</b>. This was the area
designated as the residence of the crown prince.</span></span></div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">one of the main structures of Seongjeonggak</td></tr>
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<span class="apple-converted-space"><span style="background: #F7F7F7; color: #666666; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 9.0pt; line-height: 115%;">The last place that we went to was the <b>Nakseonjae Complex</b>. This place was constructed to be the king’s
quarters during the reign of King Heonjong in 1847. As ordered by the king
himself, colorful paint decorations were not to be used here – living up to his
humble lifestyle. Another thing, this place is designated as Treasure No. 1764
in 2012.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">a portion of the Nakseonjae Complex</td></tr>
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<span class="apple-converted-space"><span style="background: #F7F7F7; color: #666666; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 9.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Although famed for its Secret Garden, I was not able to go
there due to the heavy rains that followed. Maybe I’ll try going next time when
the weather is much more cooperative. By the way, the entrance fee to the
Secret Garden at the back of the palace is different. You have to purchase
another pass worth 5,000 KRW and join a tour group during a given timeslot. All
tourists are expected to join a tour group so as to preserve the pristine
environment inside.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">photo with my walking tour guide</td></tr>
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<span class="apple-converted-space"><b><span style="background: #F7F7F7; color: #666666; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 9.0pt;">Opening Hours: <o:p></o:p></span></b></span></div>
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<span class="apple-converted-space"><span style="background: #F7F7F7; color: #666666; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 9.0pt;">April
– October: 9:00 – 18:30 <o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span class="apple-converted-space"><span style="background: #F7F7F7; color: #666666; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 9.0pt;">December
– February: 9:00 – 17:00<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span class="apple-converted-space"><span style="background: #F7F7F7; color: #666666; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 9.0pt;">November
/ March: 9:00 – 17:30 <o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span class="apple-converted-space"><b><span style="background: #F7F7F7; color: #666666; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 9.0pt;">Closed on Mondays<o:p></o:p></span></b></span></div>
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<span class="apple-converted-space"><b><span style="background: #F7F7F7; color: #666666; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 9.0pt;">How to get here:</span></b></span><span class="apple-converted-space"><span style="background: #F7F7F7; color: #666666; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 9.0pt;"> <o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span class="apple-converted-space"><span style="background: #F7F7F7; color: #666666; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 9.0pt;">Jongno-3
ga Station (Line 1, 3, or 5, Exit 6)<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span class="apple-converted-space"><span style="background: #F7F7F7; color: #666666; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 9.0pt;">Anguk
Station (Line 3, Exit 3)<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="background-color: #f7f7f7; color: #666666; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 12px;">Found this post informative as well as educational about Korean history and culture? Perhaps you've been to this palace too? Tell me about your opinions and experiences by commenting below or by using the Contact button on the right.</span><br />
<span style="background-color: #f7f7f7; color: #666666; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 12px;"><br /></span></div>
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<span class="apple-converted-space"><span style="background: #F7F7F7; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 9.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="color: #666666;">Up next, finding hidden treasures at</span><b> <a href="http://theloftprince.blogspot.com/2013/01/day-3-finding-hidden-treasures-at.html"><span style="color: blue;">Insadong</span></a></b><span style="color: #666666;">.<o:p></o:p></span></span></span><br />
<span class="apple-converted-space"><span style="background: #F7F7F7; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 9.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="color: #666666;"><br /></span></span></span>
<span class="apple-converted-space"><span style="background: #F7F7F7; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 9.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: small; line-height: normal;">Want to discover more about my </span><a href="http://theloftprince.blogspot.com/2012/12/seoul-south-korea-5-days-4-nights.html" style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: medium; line-height: normal;"><b><span style="color: #990000;">5 Days and 4 Nights in Seoul</span></b></a><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: small; line-height: normal;">, South Korea? Just click the link.</span></span></span></div>
Daryl | The Loft Princehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14662589755240540856noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3034097485415961847.post-80518261448737830862013-01-14T21:49:00.000+08:002013-08-09T22:38:42.425+08:00Seoul Day 2 – Viewing Seoul from N Seoul Tower<br />
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<span class="apple-converted-space"><span style="background: #F7F7F7; color: #666666; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 9.0pt; line-height: 115%;">After completing my traditional hanok village experience, I
was set on going to my next destination, the <b>N Seoul Tower</b>. Awhile back, I was actually thinking whether or not
to proceed to the tower as it was raining that day. Fortunately, the skies
cleared up late that afternoon which made for an easy decision to go on with
the initial plan. <o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">N Seoul Tower</td></tr>
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<span class="apple-converted-space"><span style="background: #F7F7F7; color: #666666; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 9.0pt; line-height: 115%;">It was fairly easy to get to N Seoul Tower from where I was
– just one bus ride away (I chose the cheapest mode of transportation). From
the main gate of Namsangol Hanok Village, I walked to the bus stop located just
a few meters away from Chungmuro Station Exit 2 – you won’t miss this one. I
simply had to wait for Bus No. 5 to pass by and ride it until we reach the top
of Mt. Namsan. By the way, this bus is very easy to spot since it is yellow in
color.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Namsan Bus No. 05<br />
courtesy of english.seoul.go.kr</td></tr>
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<span class="apple-converted-space"><span style="background: #F7F7F7; color: #666666; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 9.0pt; line-height: 115%;">If you are willing to splurge a little and get a more
scenic view while going to N Seoul Tower, you might want to try out the cable
car. It’s supposed to give you a beautiful panoramic view of Seoul.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span class="apple-converted-space"><span style="background: #F7F7F7; color: #666666; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 9.0pt; line-height: 115%;">The bus ride took about 15 minutes or so to get to the
destination. From the bus stop here, it was a short walk uphill towards the
actual N Seoul Tower area. At first, I thought it was a fairly easy. </span></span></div>
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<span class="apple-converted-space"><span style="background: #F7F7F7; color: #666666; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 9.0pt; line-height: 115%;">However, the
road soon became steeper midway. The road leading to the tower was quite
slippery as well due to the downpour earlier that day. I had to focus on
planting my feet on the ground lest I want to tumble down. When I got to the
top, I was already catching my breath.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">the uphill climb</td></tr>
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<span class="apple-converted-space"><span style="background: #F7F7F7; color: #666666; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 9.0pt; line-height: 115%;">I first went to the <b>Rooftop
Terrace</b> to enjoy the scenic views of Seoul. I found it to be really breathtaking!
You can also appreciate the beauty of the nature that surrounds Mt. Namsan at
this point. It’s like having an oasis within the urban landscape. More so, I
enjoyed the cold breeze here as it was very refreshing!<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">colorful view from the Rooftop Terrace</td></tr>
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<span class="apple-converted-space"><span style="background: #F7F7F7; color: #666666; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 9.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span class="apple-converted-space"><span style="background: #F7F7F7; color: #666666; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 9.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Another attraction at the Rooftop Terrace which never fails
to catch everyone’s attention is <b>Locks
of Love</b>. There are literally thousands of locks that line the fences
surrounding this place.</span></span></div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">hundreds of love locks</td></tr>
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<span class="apple-converted-space"><span style="background: #F7F7F7; color: #666666; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 9.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Actually, some were already like walls since the locks
are so near each other that you can’t see what’s on the other side. All of
these locks were left here as testaments to the unfailing and unwavering love
of thousands of couples. As the saying goes here, if you leave a lock with your
partner and throw away the key, your love for each other will locked
forever. <o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">love locks wall</td></tr>
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<span class="apple-converted-space"><span style="background: #F7F7F7; color: #666666; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 9.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Oh yeah, some of the locks were even made to resemble
trees. All of them were neatly lined up at the base of the tower.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">love locks trees</td></tr>
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<span class="apple-converted-space"><span style="background: #F7F7F7; color: #666666; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 9.0pt; line-height: 115%;">There were many cute benches here as well. Each one had a
different illustration but all revolve on the single theme. You guessed it!
LOVE. I had fun checking out all of them!<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">one of the cute benches</td></tr>
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<span class="apple-converted-space"><span style="background: #F7F7F7; color: #666666; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 9.0pt; line-height: 115%;">As for the tower, it was another sight to look at. Standing
here at its base, it seems more imposing than if seen from a distance.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">N Seoul Tower at dusk</td></tr>
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<span class="apple-converted-space"><span style="background: #F7F7F7; color: #666666; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 9.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Apparently, this is Korea’s first general radio wave tower.
Since 1969, it has been providing the city of Seoul both TV and radio broadcasting
– such a long history! I find it amazing that the structure is so well maintained
throughout all these years. No wonder it was selected as one of the 51 Seoul
Design Assets last 2009! Clearly, this is something I’d like to see happen with
my own country’s infrastructures. <o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span class="apple-converted-space"><span style="background: #F7F7F7; color: #666666; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 9.0pt; line-height: 115%;">A few steps away from the t</span></span><span style="background-color: #f7f7f7; color: #666666; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 9pt; line-height: 115%;">ower is </span><b style="color: #666666; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 9pt; line-height: 115%;">Palgakjeong Pavillion</b><span style="background-color: #f7f7f7; color: #666666; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 9pt; line-height: 115%;">. This octagonal structure serves as a good
resting spot for those with weary feet. From here, you can get a nice view of </span><b style="color: #666666; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 9pt; line-height: 115%;">Namsan Park</b><span style="background-color: #f7f7f7; color: #666666; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 9pt; line-height: 115%;"> and its surroundings – you might
want to ponder on some things while sitting here too.</span></div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">watching the sunset from Palgakjeong Pavillion</td></tr>
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<span class="apple-converted-space"><span style="background: #F7F7F7; color: #666666; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 9.0pt; line-height: 115%;">The <b>Bonghwadae
(Beacon Mound)</b> is a notable historical site in this place. Used to report
news from local governments to the central government during the Joseon
Dynasty, these 5 beacons utilized a 5-signal system. Placed at the top of Mt.
Namsan, it provided a very strategic approach in relaying messages during the
height of those times.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">signals at the Bonghwadae</td></tr>
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<span class="apple-converted-space"><span style="background: #F7F7F7; color: #666666; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 9.0pt; line-height: 115%;">For nature lovers, there are several walking trails around
Mt. Namsan. Hikers can definitely enjoy these! As I did not anymore have the
energy, I was not able to try any of these trails. <o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span class="apple-converted-space"><span style="background: #F7F7F7; color: #666666; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 9.0pt; line-height: 115%;">At nightfall, the tower lights up using the latest
technology of LED. More so, there’s a light show here which attracts a lot of
tourists wanting to witness colorful and playful displays.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">N Seoul Tower at night</td></tr>
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<span class="apple-converted-space"><span style="background: #F7F7F7; color: #666666; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 9.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Other things you can find inside the tower are several
restaurants, gift and souvenir shops, the entrance to the observatory, and the
famous <b>Teddy Bear Museum</b>.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">towards the Observatory</td></tr>
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<span class="apple-converted-space"><span style="background: #F7F7F7; color: #666666; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 9.0pt; line-height: 115%;"> <o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Teddy Bear Museum entrance</td></tr>
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<span style="background-color: #f7f7f7; color: #666666; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 12px;">Won't you agree that the N Seoul Tower is a perfect place to spend the late afternoon or early evening? Perhaps you've been here too? Tell me about your experiences by commenting below or by using the Contact button on the right.</span><br />
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<span class="apple-converted-space"><span style="background: #F7F7F7; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 9.0pt;"><span style="color: #666666;">Up
next, my historical discoveries at the </span><b><a href="http://theloftprince.blogspot.com/2013/01/day-3-discovering-history-at.html"><span style="color: blue;">Changdeokgung Palace</span></a></b><span style="color: #666666;">.<o:p></o:p></span></span></span><br />
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<span class="apple-converted-space"><span style="background: #F7F7F7; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 9.0pt;"><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: small;">Want to discover more about my </span><a href="http://theloftprince.blogspot.com/2012/12/seoul-south-korea-5-days-4-nights.html" style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: medium;"><b><span style="color: #990000;">5 Days and 4 Nights in Seoul</span></b></a><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: small;">, South Korea? Just click the link.</span></span></span><br />
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Daryl | The Loft Princehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14662589755240540856noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3034097485415961847.post-48872987503490336162013-01-09T14:55:00.002+08:002013-02-14T21:45:21.747+08:00Outback Steakhouse at Libis, Quezon City<br />
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<span class="apple-converted-space"><span style="background: #F7F7F7; color: #666666; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 9.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Lately, we kept on eating at restaurants serving Asian
cuisine. So, for a much needed change in taste, the family decided to eat at <b>Outback Steakhouse</b> for a more Western
feel. We went to their branch at Libis – located along C5. It’s just within the
proximity of the famed Eastwood district.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span class="apple-converted-space"><span style="background: #F7F7F7; color: #666666; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 9.0pt; line-height: 115%;">We were seated at the bar area as there was a function
going on at the main areapart of the restaurant. It was alright as it was still
a non-smoking place. Besides, we were still given couch seating. <o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">the bar</td></tr>
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<span class="apple-converted-space"><span style="background: #F7F7F7; color: #666666; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 9.0pt; line-height: 115%;">I liked the relaxed ambience that the whole restaurant
gives. It makes you want to savor your food without the need to hurry. More so,
people can enjoy long conversations over lunch or dinner at this place. <o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/32777953@N02/8362943713/" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" title="2012-12-01 18.48d by The Loft Prince, on Flickr"><img alt="2012-12-01 18.48d" height="375" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8054/8362943713_c1a68121d2.jpg" width="500" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">bar area</td></tr>
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<span class="apple-converted-space"><span style="background: #F7F7F7; color: #666666; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 9.0pt; line-height: 115%;">As for the food, we only ordered four dishes since we saw
that the servings were quite large for our stomachs to handle.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/32777953@N02/8362943361/" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" title="2012-12-01 18.50e by The Loft Prince, on Flickr"><img alt="2012-12-01 18.50e" height="375" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8470/8362943361_c7428d0405.jpg" width="500" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">menu</td></tr>
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<span class="apple-converted-space"><span style="background: #F7F7F7; color: #666666; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 9.0pt; line-height: 115%;">While waiting our orders, we were served with a
complimentary bread platter. I’m not really sure what kind of bread it was but
all I can say is that it was delicious. I enjoyed it even more by spreading a
generous amount of the whipped butter that accompanied it.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Complimentary Bread Platter</td></tr>
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<span class="apple-converted-space"><span style="background: #F7F7F7; color: #666666; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 9.0pt; line-height: 115%;">For starters, we got the <b>Alice Springs Chicken Quesadilla</b>. <o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi8An1C-v-ATsfrroCDlY9xj1dGHEX2vrVCm1TE6pGbqTiMoUlYa6Ysj3CzFxW50aFCZYpppGTIASH2RMa-x2vP3Z7HoCKzxuA7JZkjHmMs13MmhF37i7QP8pZjXxb2QV-SHTiEg_5CYtCe/s1600/alice-springs-chicken-quesadilla_t.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="298" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi8An1C-v-ATsfrroCDlY9xj1dGHEX2vrVCm1TE6pGbqTiMoUlYa6Ysj3CzFxW50aFCZYpppGTIASH2RMa-x2vP3Z7HoCKzxuA7JZkjHmMs13MmhF37i7QP8pZjXxb2QV-SHTiEg_5CYtCe/s400/alice-springs-chicken-quesadilla_t.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Alice Springs Chicken Quesadilla - 279 PHP (Half) 469 PHP (Full)<br />
courtesy of outback.com</td></tr>
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<span class="apple-converted-space"><span style="background: #F7F7F7; color: #666666; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 9.0pt; line-height: 115%;">I was not able to take a photo of this one since the whole
thing was gone in an instant. Not to say that the portions were small! Everyone
simply jumpstarted at it when the dish was placed at the table – actually, I
was too busy munching on it to even remember.
The wrapper had a nice balance between chewy and crunchy. The filling,
on the other hand, was heavenly. I like how soft the chicken pieces are and how
the melted cheese blended everything so well together. This starter was really good and I would take
the time to go back just to have this again!<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span class="apple-converted-space"><span style="background: #F7F7F7; color: #666666; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 9.0pt; line-height: 115%;">As for the mains, we got a combination platter of <b>Ribs and Alice Springs Chicken</b>.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span class="apple-converted-space"><span style="background: #F7F7F7; color: #666666; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 9.0pt; line-height: 115%;">The ribs had a melt in your mouth feel – its meat was so
tender that made chewing so effortless! There was also a burst of flavor with
each bite. I appreciate how all the ingredients used for the marinade were perfectly
infused into the meat to give it that lasting impression. More so, there was no
skimping on the sauce as it was liberally drizzled over the entire rack!<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span class="apple-converted-space"><span style="background: #F7F7F7; color: #666666; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 9.0pt; line-height: 115%;">The grilled chicken was firm but really easy to bite into –
flamed just right. The bacon strips and sautéed mushrooms added to the variety
of flavors which gave this dish an edgier appeal. Lastly, the melted cheese and
honey mustard dressing pleasantly put everything together which made this dish
a hit for all of us. <o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/32777953@N02/8362943661/" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" title="IMG00007-20121201-2000e by The Loft Prince, on Flickr"><img alt="IMG00007-20121201-2000e" height="375" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8226/8362943661_451065eefd.jpg" width="500" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Ribs and Alice Springs Chicken - 1129 PHP</td></tr>
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<span class="apple-converted-space"><span style="background: #F7F7F7; color: #666666; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 9.0pt; line-height: 115%;">The sides that came with this dish paired with the meat
nicely. The mashed potatoes were pleasantly prepared with a creamy taste while
the steamed vegetables retained their freshness – still have a nice crunch to
them.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span class="apple-converted-space"><span style="background: #F7F7F7; color: #666666; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 9.0pt; line-height: 115%;">We also got steak – the <b>Angus Ribeye</b>. Why dine at a steakhouse if you’re not going to order
one, right? Chargrilled just the way you like it, I found this steak to be delightful.
It was so juicy and very much savory – makes you want to have more. According to
the menu, this was seasoned with their secret 17 seasoning blend. Well, all I can
say is that those 17 herbs and spices worked very well to produce this yummy
steak filled with enticing flavors. <o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Angus Ribeye - 1455 PHP</td></tr>
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<span class="apple-converted-space"><span style="background: #F7F7F7; color: #666666; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 9.0pt; line-height: 115%;">The baked potato that came with it matched well –
especially with the sour cream dressing that we chose (you can opt for a cheese
dressing if you want). <o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span class="apple-converted-space"><span style="background: #F7F7F7; color: #666666; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 9.0pt; line-height: 115%;">As for the pasta, we got <b>Toowoomba Pasta</b>. It was a simple pasta dish with a cream based
sauce on fettuccine. What made the difference was the abundance of grilled
shrimp that topped it off. I felt like I got my money’s worth for this dish. Although
I enjoyed the taste of this, it probably would have been better with more sauce
– or maybe I just like pasta with a lot of sauce in it. The consistency of the
pasta was good though so no problems with that.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/32777953@N02/8364009206/" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" title="IMG00005-20121201-2000e by The Loft Prince, on Flickr"><img alt="IMG00005-20121201-2000e" height="375" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8507/8364009206_2165ac2f2b.jpg" width="500" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Toowoomba Pasta - 459 PHP</td></tr>
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<span class="apple-converted-space"><span style="background: #F7F7F7; color: #666666; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 9.0pt; line-height: 115%;">That’s all for the food. With regards to the staff, they
were friendly and courteous to guests. Best of all, they provided great service.
A job well done! <o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span class="apple-converted-space"><span style="background: #F7F7F7; color: #666666; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 9.0pt; line-height: 115%;">We will definitely go back here again in future.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
Daryl | The Loft Princehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14662589755240540856noreply@blogger.com1