Black Sesame Paste, Canton Tower, Chimelong Paradise, China, Diary of a Foodster, Eat, Food, Katong Kids Inc, Photography, Playground, Ruxuan Seafood Congee, Shangxiajiu Pedestrian Street

Guangzhou Travelogue – (Part 3): Chimelong Paradise, Canton Tower, Shangxiajiu Pedestrian Street Black Sesame Paste and Ruxuan Seafood Congee

January 18, 2020January 18, 2020 katongkidsinc

Wrapping up our stay in Guangzhou. Today we brought Big and Small M to Guangzhou Chimelong (长隆) Paradise which is one of Guangzhou’s top tourist attraction.

Chimelong Paradise

We chose a weekday to avoid the crowd and it was a good move!

The park wasn’t the scale of Disneyland and we thought the some of the rides were too kiddish for us. To maximise our time, we took repeated rides for some of the thrilling stations.

And they had fun!

We thought if you’re not hard up to visit an amusement park, probably you can give it a miss. It cost about SGD50 per pax which is quite pricey for the quality of the rides inside.

Guangzhou Chimelong Tourist Resort is mainly composed of Chimelong Paradise, the Xiangjiang Safari Park, the Water Park, the International Circus, the Crocopark, and the Golf Center.

Canton Tower

The Canton Tower stands at the intersection of Guangzhou’s new urban central and the Pearl River scenery zone. It is the tallest TV tower in the world with a total height of 600m. The bubble tram on top of the tower is a must do as you will experience the best views of the city from there.

Having a meal at Canton Tower!

Shangxiajiu Pedestrian Street

On our last night, we explored the other side of Shangxiajiu Pedestrian Street and found one of the best black sesame paste (芝麻糊).

Zhi ma hu is grounded black sesame seeds made into a sweet pasty dessert. Drawing onlookers.

Customers can mix different flavours into the same bowl without charging extra price.

The street is filled with many eateries…

We love this place! The street is vibrant, cool and happening. Well worth a visit when in Guangzhou.

Ruxuan Seafood Congee

This restaurant is famous for the seafood congee served in clay pot. Ruxuan is a Guangzhou based chain, and serves Cantonese congee and other Guangdong style dishes.

We had one of the best meals here in Guangzhou before leaving for Shenzhen.

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Top 30 Places in Singapore to Bring Your Kids During the Holidays!

June 7, 2019 katongkidsinc

It’s the time of the year where school-going children unwind from the highs of the examinations,
and parents are able to take a break from the mad rush of time juggling between work, school and
extracurricular activities.

While some of us make plans for travel, many of us still spend a fair amount of time staying put in our
sunny island, where there is much to do. But whether you are travelling or staying, kids will be kids, and
they are energizer bunnies bursting with excitement on what their next activity will be.

We can imagine many starting to Google on where is the nearest and most convenient places to bring these
rugrats. If this stresses you out, no fret! Here we provide you a location based breakdown of the top 30
places to bring your kids (to burn off their seemingly endless bouts of energy).

North

#1 Katapult Trampoline Park

Where

81 Lorong Chencharu

#01-11

Singapore 769198

Opening Hours

Monday: 12pm – 9pm

Tuesday – Friday: 10am – 9pm

Saturday, Sunday & Public Holiday (PH): 9am – 9pm

Tickets

Weekday: From $15/hr

Weekend: From $19/hr

#2 Kidzland

Where

81 Lorong Chencharu

#01-11

Singapore 769198

Opening Hours

Monday: 12pm – 9pm

Tuesday – Friday: 10am – 9pm

Saturday, Sunday & PH: 9am – 9pm

Tickets

Toddler (1-3 yo): From $16

Child (3yo & above): From $20

1 Accompanying Adult: Free

#3 Kids Amaze @ SAFRA Toa Payoh

Where

293 Lorong 6 Toa Payoh

SAFRA Toa Payoh

Singapore 319387

Opening Hours

Monday – Thursday: 1pm – 7pm

Friday: 1pm – 9pm

Saturday, Sunday & PH: 10am – 7pm

Tickets

Child (18 months – 18 years): From $7.50 (Member); From $12.70 (Non Member)

Adult: $2.15

#4 My Little Climb Room

Where

183 Jln Pelikat

#B1-101

Singapore 537643

Opening Hours

Thursday, Friday: 2pm – 7:30pm

Saturday – Sunday, PH: 10am – 7:30pm

Tickets

3 and above: $22

Below 3 years old: $11

Additional adults: $5

North East

#5 Air Zone

Where

180 Kitchener Road

Level 2, City Square Mall

Singapore 208539

Opening Hours

Daily

11am – 9pm

Tickets

$20.00 (1 hour session)

There is no age restriction but all guests must be able to climb and walk on the nets unassisted. Children who are below 7 years old must be accompanied by a supervising adult.

#6 Fun N Laughter

Where

180 Kitchener Road

#B2-32, City Square Mall

Singapore 208539

Opening Hours

Daily

1030am – 930pm

Tickets

Toddler (Under 2yo): From $12

Child (2yo & above): From $18

#7 Happy Castle

Where

Seletar Mall

33 Sengkang East West Ave

#03-K1/2/3

Singapore 797653

Opening Hours

Daily

10am – 10pm

Tickets

$22 for 3hrs

$78 for 10hrs

$140 for 20hrs

#8 Splash @ Kids Amaze (SAFRA Punggol)

Where

9 Sentul Crescent

SAFRA Punggol

Singapore 828654

Opening Hours

Monday – Thursday: 10pm – 8pm

Friday – Sunday, PH: 10am – 9pm

Tickets

Baby (Below 18 months): Free

Child (18 months – 13 years): From $8 (Member); From $16 (Non Member)

Adult: $2 (Member); $5 (Non Member)

East

#9 Clip ‘n Climb

Where

HomeTeamNS Tampines

1 Tampines Walk

#03-03 Our Tampines Hub

Singapore 528523

Opening Hours

Monday – Thursday: 12pm – 9pm

Every first Monday of the Month (i.e. 4 March 2019): 2pm – 9pm

Friday, Saturday, School Holidays and Eve of PH: 10am – 11pm

Sunday and PH: 10am – 9pm

Tickets

HomeTeamNS Member: $18

PA/SAFRA: $22

Guest: $25

#10 Kaboodle Kids

Where

88 East Coast Road

#02-05 Katong Square

Singapore 423371

Opening Hours

Monday, Wednesday, Thursday, Sunday: 10am – 6pm

Friday, Saturday: 9am – 730pm

Closed on Tuesdays

Open on Public Holidays

Tickets

Toddler (Below 3yo): From $15

Child (3yo & above): From $20

#11 The Artground – A Curious Place To Be

Where

90 Goodman Road

#01-40 Block J

Singapore 439053

Opening Hours

Wednesday & Thursday: 930am – 5pm

Friday – Sunday & PH: 930am – 6pm

Tickets

Free

#12 The Polliwogs

Where

3 Simei Street 6

#04-07 Eastpoint Mall

Singapore 528833

Opening Hours

Sunday – Thursday: 10am – 830pm

Friday & Saturday: 10am – 9pm

Tickets

Toddler (Below 2yo): From $13

Child (2yo & above): From $20

#13 The City

Where

112 East Coast Road

#03-31 i12 Katong Mall

Singapore 428802

Opening Hours

Daily

10am – 7pm

Tickets

Under 12 months (with accompanied paying sibling): Free

Under 24 months: $18

25 months & above: $22

Adults: Free

West

#14 Let ‘Em Play

Where

18 Boon Lay Way

#01-100 Trade Hub 21

Singapore 609966

Opening Hours

Monday – Friday: 10am – 730pm

Saturday, Sunday & PH: 10am – 830pm

Tickets

Child: $25

Adult: $29

Parent/Child Bundle: $48

#15 Kids Amaze @ SAFRA Jurong

Where

333 Boon Lay Way

SAFRA Jurong

Singapore 649848

Opening Hours

Monday – Thursday: 1pm – 7pm

Friday: 1pm – 9pm

Saturday, Sunday & PH: 10am – 7pm

Tickets

Child (18 months – 18 years): From $7.50 (Member); From $12.70 (Non Member)

Adult: $2.15

#16 T-Play

Where

2 Bukit Batok West Ave 7

Level 2 HomeTeamNS Bukit Batok

Singapore 659003

Opening Hours

Monday – Thursday: 1pm – 7pm

Friday: 1pm – 9pm

Saturday, Sunday, School & PH: 10am – 9pm

Tickets

Below 18 months: From $2

Above 18 months: From $4

Adult: From $2

#17 Go go bambini

Where

Blk 8 Dempsey Road

#01-15 Dempsey Hill

Singapore 247696

Opening Hours

Daily

9am – 7pm

Tickets

Monday – Thursday: Unlimited Playtime

Babies (below 6 months): Free

Toddlers (6 – 23 months): From $10

Children (2 – 12 years): From $20

#18 Houbii Spot

Where

80 Mandai Lake Road

Singapore Zoo

Singapore 729826

Opening Hours

Daily

10am – 6pm

Tickets

Mini Course (Kids below 110cm): $20

The Real Thing (Kids above 110cm): $25

Central

#19 Playeum @ Gilman Barracks

Where

Block 47 Malan Road

#01-23 Gillman Barracks

Singapore 109444

Opening Hours

Tuesday – Sunday: 10am – 6pm

Closed on Monday

Tickets

Child (1 – 12yo): $22

1 Accompanying Adult: Free

Additional Accompanying Adult: $10

#20 Buds by Shangri-La

Where

Shangri-La Hotel Singapore

22 Orange Grove Road

Lower Lobby, Tower Wing

Singapore 258350

Opening Hours

Daily

9am – 9pm

Tickets

Toddler (Under 4yo): From $28

Child (4-12yo): $48

#21 Cool De Sac

Where

3 Temasek Boulevard

#02-379/80, Suntec Convention Centre

Singapore 038983

(West Wing, above H&M and Uniqlo )

Opening Hours

Sunday – Thursday: 10am – 8pm

Friday & Saturday: 10am – 9pm

Tickets

Monday – Friday

Under 6 months: Free

Under 3yo: $12.80

3-12yo: $22.80

Saturday, Sunday & PH

Under 6 months: Free*

Under 3yo: $14.90

3-12yo: $28.70

*Adult rates apply for children under 6 months for Weekends and Public Holidays

#22 Future World Exhibition

Where

ArtScience Museum

Marina Bay Sands

6 Bayfront Avenue

Singapore 018974

Opening Hours

10am – 7pm

(Last admission at 6pm)

Tickets

Enquire at Counter

#23 KidsSTOP

Where

Science Centre Singapore

15 Science Centre Road

Singapore 609081

Opening Hours

Daily

930am – 130pm (1st session)

2pm – 6pm (2nd session)

Tickets

Child: From $10

Adult: From $5 per adult

#24 The Joy of Toys

Where

6 Eu Tong Seng Street

#03-51 Clarke Quay Central (Yellow Zone)

Singapore 059817

Opening Hours

Sunday – Thursday: 10am – 8pm

Friday – Saturday: 10am – 9pm

Tickets

Child: From $10

Adult: From $5

#25 Busy Tables

Where

35 Rochester Drive

#03-22 Rochester Mall

Singapore

Opening Hours

Daily

10am – 730pm

Tickets

Single Entry: $10 (Less than 1 yo); $18 (1yo & above)

Drop off: $18 per hr

Playgroups: $35 per session

#26 Waka Waka

Where

407 Havelock Road

#05-01

Singapore 169634

Opening Hours

Monday – Friday: 930am – 7pm

Sat, Sun & PH: 930am – 8pm

Tickets

Starter (6 visit pass): $158

Explorer (12 visit pass): $248

#27 Aquarius Cove

Where

29 Carpenter Street

Level 5

Singapore 059923

Opening Hours

Monday – Friday: 1130am – 6pm

Sat, Sun & PH: 1030am – 630pm

Tickets

11 mths & Below: Free ($5 per adult)

12 mths – 29 mths: $10 (2 accompanying adult per paying child)

2.5 yrs & above: $18 (2 accompanying adult per paying child)

Weekdays (excl. PH & School Holidays) – Unlimited Playtime

Weekends, PH & School Holidays – 2 hrs playtime

#28 Little Planet Playland

Where

176 Orchard Road, #02-21

The Centrepoint

Singapore 238843

Opening Hours

Sunday to Friday: 10am – 7pm

Saturday & PH: 10am – 8pm

Tickets

11 mths & Below: Free (per accompanying paying child)

12 mths & Above: $25

Weekdays – Unlimited play

Weekends & PH – 2hr play

#29 Pororo Park

Where

6 Raffles Boulevard

#02-29 Marina Square

Singapore 039594

Opening Hours

Sunday to Friday: 1030am – 8pm

aturday: 1030am – 9pm

Unlimited Playtime on School Holidays

Tickets

Child

Non Members: From $24.50

Partners: From $23.50

Annual Members: From $19.50

Adult

Non Members: $6

Partners: $4.50

Annual Members: $2.50

Weekdays: 3hr playtime

Weekends: 2hr playtime

#30 Kidzania

Where

31 Beach View

#01-01/02 Palawan Kidz City

Singapore 098008

Opening Hours

Daily

10am – 6pm

Tickets

Toddler (under 3yo): Free

Child (3-17yo): From $58.90

Adult (18-59yo): From $33.25

Senior (60yo & above): From $23.75

A month worth of activities is a lot of energy, and a hole in parents’ pockets. Why not earn back some savings with cashback cards like American Express True Cashback Credit Card, Standard Chartered Unlimited Cashback Credit Card or Citi Cash Back Card? Many little savings equate to another round of activities for free!

Finty provides you an array of cashback cards to choose from, drop them a note if you require more personalised recommendations!

Happy Holidays Everyone! 🙂

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9/11 Tribute Museum, America, Big Apple, Brooklyn Bridge, Bryant Park, Cafe, Christmas, Christmas Markets, Diary of a Foodster, Eat, Education, Ellis Island, Food, Katong Kids Inc, Kids Activities, Photography, Playground, Review, Statue of Liberty, Times Square, Times Squarwe, Travel Blog

New York Travelogue – (Part 2): Brooklyn Bridge, Charging Bull, Statue of Liberty, Ellis Island, Washington Square, Times Square and Bryant Park

March 17, 2019 katongkidsinc

Our stay in New York City – Club Quarters Hotel at the World Trade Center. Beautiful view of the city’s skyscrapers at the skydeck. The hotel’s snack bar has unlimited flow of canned soft drinks, coffee, nuts and snacks for guests.

The hotel was located near to the 9/11 Memorial and the vicinity was not as congested with human crowds as Times Square. The skydeck overlooking the reflecting pools.

And so we took a 3km walk to the Brooklyn Bridge. The Brooklyn Bridge is a hybrid cable-stayed/suspension bridge in New York City. It connects the boroughs of Manhattan and Brooklyn, spanning the East River.

Popular pop-up food stalls in New York City.

The kids soaking themselves in the sights and culture on each stop.

Travelling to New York on a budget. It doesn’t have to be an expensive trip if you kno whow to avoid paying too much money. Avoid pop up stalls selling simple food we thought it was expensive. Instead of signing up for guided walking tours, we thought it would be better to explore by ourselves using google maps.

At the start of the bridge walk. The bridge is a quite popular tourist attraction the best time to be here is early in the morning so that we can avoid the crowds later in the day.

There was a bike lane at the bridge in which a steady steam of cyclists never fails to utilise that lane. We were blessed that the weather was about 15 degrees else we would be sweating by the time we finished our walk.

This is the best place to catch sunrise and sunset. Photo-taking was a challenge as the crowds began to build. We chanced upon a camera team recording MTV.

Just to note that the pedestrain walk is made of wood. Reality is often different from what you see from social media where tourists dressed in tip-top costumes and high heels just for sake of taking the insta-worthy pictures. Hope the heels did not get stuck! We would suggest to forgo vanity for practicality when walking the Brooklyn Bridge.

Charging Bull, which is sometimes referred to as the Wall Street Bull or the Bowling Green Bull, is a bronze sculpture that stands in Bowling Green in the Financial District in Manhattan, New York City. It is the symbol of the US Stock Market.

The jetty was a short walk from the Charging Bull. With the tickets we purchased from 9/11 Museum, we would be taking ferry to the Liberty Island.

It was freezing cold! Visitors could opt to sit at the balcony or the sheltered basement.

Getting closer to the Statue of Liberty..

It was not a wasted trip. We thought of the possiblity of viewing Statue of Liberty from the mainland but decided to pay a visit to the island. It wasn’t expensive and by getting near here would mean we could take decent pictures.

It was also a perfect place to view the Big Apple from another angle.

To our pleasant surprise, we did not know that our tickets also included a visit to the Ellis Island. The Ellis Island National Museum of Immigration is located in the Main Building of the former immigration station complex and tells the moving tales of the 12 million immigrants who entered America through the golden door of Ellis Island. Today, the descendants of those immigrants account for almost half of the American people.

We learned about the history of early immigrants. Actually we were not big fans of museums.

Once we returned to the mainland, we hopped onto the subway to Washington Park.

This place was basically an outskirt from the busyness of the city. Not much attractions but it would be a charming place to immerse ourselves with the life of locals.

And we were being interviewed by the college students who were doing a social experiment.

We tried McDonald’s 🙂

Some said NYC is a city of endless possibilities. We were amazed upon reaching Times Square. It was so beautiful!

Located in the heart of New York City, Times Square is home to some of the most famous attractions New York has to offer.

We were just trying to find sweet spots for photo-taking.

Exploring the stores.

Macy’s Herald Square is the flagship of the Macy’s department store chain; it is located on Herald Square in Manhattan, New York City.

Big M got what she has been looking forward to.

Amazon Books located on 34th Street (Manhattan).

The prices were not cheaper than online. In fact they were priced the same.

The Empire State Building is a 102-story Art Deco skyscraper in Midtown Manhattan, New York City. We did not go up as that would mean paying for expensive tickets.

Located in Midtown Manhattan between 7th and 8th Avenues from 31st to 33rd Streets, the Madison Square Garden is situated atop Pennsylvania Station. If one were to wonder why it is so famous, this is the home ground of the famous New York Knicks.

Up next is the Bryant Park. Surrounded by skyscrappers, Bryant Park is Bryant Park is visited many people each year and is one of the busiest public spaces in NYC.

The ice skating rink would come to life during Christmas. What an atmosphere!

There’s no better place to chill out other than Bryant Park.

Next to the Bryant Park was the Whole Foods Market which offered a full range of high-quality and natural food. It is overlooking the beautiful Bryant Park and the New York Public Library.

At 43,000 square feet, the store has two levels of retail space that will host a full range of high-quality natural and organic goods, as well as the “News Agency,” a coffee and juice bar, which will pay homage to the look and feel of the city’s classic newsstands. Here’s our order. Microwave ovens were provided for diners to warm up their food.

We love the Big Apple!

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London Travelogue – (Part 3): Big Ben, Westminter Abbey, London Eye, St James Park, Buckingham Palace and Hyde Park Winter Wonderland

February 24, 2019February 24, 2019 katongkidsinc

A visit to London is never complete without sighting the Big Ben. Well, we knew that London’s Big Ben has stop chiming as it is undergoing major renovations from now till 2021. But still, it is a mandatory stop for every tourist.

A brief walk down appears the Westminster Abbey, London church that is the site of coronations and other ceremonies of national significance. It stands just west of the Houses of Parliament in the Greater London borough of Westminster.

We did not enter though as sunset was nearing and we had a fair bit of itinerary to cover for the day.

Caught the view of London Eye from the other side of the river. London is fairly concentrated and there are many visitors at these major attractions. When taking pictures or pausing by, it is best to find a ‘safer’ spot as you never know when pickpockets will appear.

It was an never ending stroll to Hyde Park to immerse ourselves in the christmas market and amusement park. Stopping by along the way of interesting sights.

St James’s Park includes The Mall and Horse Guards Parade, and is surrounded by landmarks such as Buckingham Palace, Clarence House and Whitehall.. It is a beautiful place to take a breather and for kids to get up close and personal with nature and creatures.

Big and Small M are growing up and akin to their peers, they are thrilled to achieve the insta-worthy shots.

The animals were so tamed, making the experience so surreal. When did we see birds and squrriels coming up to you for treats in Singapore?

The key takeaway for us about Buckingham Palace is that it is recognised around the world as the focus of national and royal celebrations as well as the backdrop to the regular Changing the Guard ceremony.

The Buckingham Palace flower beds, also known as the Memorial Gardens, were created in 1901 as part of Sir Aston Webb’s overall design for a memorial to Queen Victoria after her death that year.

Situated in London’s Hyde Park, which spreads over 630 acres in the centre of the capital, entry to the Hyde Park Winter Wonderland is free. It is located in close proximity to London underground tube stations including Hyde Park Corner, Marble Arch and Green Park.

We did a lot of walking just to reach here and did not go away disappointed. This place was really, really huge and it would be wise to remember prominent spots in case you get lost.

The weather wasn’t that cold but the firepit did add to the christmas atmosphere.

The kids were just like “WOW” everywhere we went and they did had their share of fun in riding the roller-coaster. On a fair note, while the park was huge many of the entertainment and rides were actually replicates.

Visiting this free-to-enter event in winter, you will have lots of fun and you can do many activities there, including ice skating, ice bar, circus shows, an observation wheel and a traditional German Christmas market. Check out this place when you drop by London during winter.

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Habitat by Honestbee: Uniquely Shopping and Dining Experience for Family

October 31, 2018 katongkidsinc

Just by word of mouth is enough to draw us to explore Habitat at Honestbee. The newly-opened supermart prides itself as a multi-sensory, tech-meets-food grocery and dining experience like no other. See, smell, hear, touch and taste fresh flavours and food items from across the globe – all in one habitat by honestbee.

When we arrived, many curious and eager shoppers were crowding at the entrance, opening or setting up their “Bee Pass” to enter/exit habitat. Yes, first of its kind experience. You do not need to bring any physical wallets and there are no ATMs to be seen as well. Just your “Bee Pass” will do.

Potted plants for sale after entering Habitat.

We read that Habitat occupies the space of slightly larger than a football field. Upon stepping into the compound, we were greeted with so many shoppers (probably their first time).

A long queue was forming at the coconut stall. Amazing, each fresh trimmed coconut was selling for only $0.95! No wonder they are the best sellers. We thought it’s a worthy buy, at least not spending more than $4 on bubble tea.

Big & Small M made a beeline to take a mandatory photo with the friendly bee when it came by.

Exploring the section near the entrance before our hunger pang strikes. According to Honestbee, the produce were sourced directly from farmers and established producers from across the globe.

Cute cup noodles from Korea and Japan.

If you are observant enough, you get to see peoples’ orders are packed quickly and transported by these conveyor belts.

Dining here is akin to having design thinking, digital marketing and digital awareness coming alive right in front of you.

And so, we had our lunch here. To order our food, we can’t order direct from the stalls. The only way to order is through your Honestbee app under “Habitat”. E-receipt is emailed to you and via the app, you can track your order and receive notification that your food is ready to collect.

Honestly, Habitat wasn’t as big as we thought it was. Probably much of the space was taken up for storage or collection/packing. It would be good if Honestbee can introduce stationery or some electronic items in the future to make the shopping experience more fulfilling.

Finally managed to find seats after waiting for quite a while. This is Little Neck Clams and Bacon.

Milk Made: Frozen shakes & bakes.

Tiger Beer battered fish & chips.

Crumble Vairhona Chocolate.

Poofy Pancakes served with vanilla chantilly cream, maple syrup and fresh berries.

Australia Grass-fed Flank Steak. Served with roasted chat potatoes, roasted plum tomatoes, herb salad.

Cute and shiny utensils. They are actually made of plastic 🙂

We have a soft spot for fresh bakes.

Free tasting at the Lazy Loaf counter.

Exploring the remaining sections. Fresh seafood are a hit with shoppers. The best part was that you can pick your seafood and the masterchef will cook it for you.

While almost everything is automated, we still need human assistance to help us figure out how to complete our purchase.

Scan our order and the trolley will check out and be automatically rolled into the packing area.

In case you are wondering whether you need to “rush” to the collection point after checking out your trolley, there is no need to. You can still dine or shop additional items and when ready, just proceed to the collection point to collect your honest purchase.

At the collection point, served by robot courier!

Shuttle bus is also available between Harbourfront to Habitat at Honestbee.

Address: 34 Boon Leat Terrace S(119866)

Bus: 10, 30, 30E, 51, 143, 175, 176, 188, 188E

MRT: Labrador Park, Pasir Panjang

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Road Trip: Pacific Coast Highway

August 25, 2018August 26, 2018 katongkidsinc

It is not often we can get a chance to be across the globe. As evidenced by the beautiful scenic pictures that keep cropping up in our trip planning, the Pacific Coast Highway (PCH) promises unique landscapes and plenty of places to stop and explore. However, we are still toying with the idea of whether to take a domestic flight or drive along the Pacific Coast Highway (PCH).

The distance stretches up to 800 km and it does not seem possible to complete the route within a day without exploration.

A tad daunting, perhaps.

An initial thought was making interval stops before hitting Los Angeles (LA). That means shortening the time we have in LA, an itinerary that we felt are not conventional to many travellers as they prefer to spend more time in LA with the availability of amusement parks. After some research, it seems hard to miss out attractions along PCH.

All thanks to Outdoor Blueprint, they made trip planning easier with these attractions laid out neatly.

SAN FRANCISCO

MONTEREY BAY

BIG SUR (Limekiln State Park)

Limekiln Big Sur 26 — Image Credit – https://californiathroughmylens.com/big-sur-attractions

Image Credit – http://www.outdoorblueprint.com

SAN LUIS OBISPO

POINT CONCEPTION (The Santa Barbara Channel)

Image Credit – https://exoticwinetravel.com/santa-barbara-urban-wine-trail/

Image Credit – http://www.outdoorblueprint.com

If you have driven across Pacific Coast Highway before, do feel free to share your travel hacks.

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Old Siglap Flats: Goodbye Yesterday, Hello Tomorrow

August 18, 2018August 18, 2018 katongkidsinc

Four blocks of low-rise HDB flats (pictured) at the junction of East Coast Road and Siglap Road are set to be demolished under the Selective En Bloc Redevelopment Scheme (SERS).

Officially opened in 1964 by Siglap assemblyman Rahim Ishak, the flats were built to house residents whose homes were destroyed by a fire in 1962. It was learnt that the fire was sparked by firecrackers near the then-famous Siglap Market (now rebuilt into Siglap Centre) during the Chinese New Year celebrations of 1962.

Capturing the photographic memories before the estate is demolished to make way for new development.

One of the ten commercial shops that once, used to serve many residents here. This traditional barber shop had operated for more than 40 years.

There are a total of four blocks which are made up entirely of two-bedroom units. Do you know that these HDB blocks have no lifts and each block is only served by a single staircase.

Most of the 117 units are two-bedders, with a third comprising rental flats.

Walking in, you will notice a neighbourhood preschool. The little ones who had attended the school would have been grown up by now.

Searching high and low for some outdoor activities to motivate your kids? Surprised to discover an outdoor playground, still in good condition, at the back of the estate.

With the advent of modernisation, the old Siglap HDB flats and its decaying surroundings have not escaped from the throes of urban redevelopment. Being a popular residential location, it looks like construction will continue to take place in Siglap, building onto its existing popularity. This trip has been fruitful, bringing back these precious pictures to archive in my photo library.

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Family Friendly Activities: Explore Qian Hu Fish Farm

August 2, 2018 katongkidsinc

This was our first trip to Qian Hu Fish Farm at the far west of Singapore. This place offers a beautiful, rustic feel that provides a great escape from the hustle and bustle of city life. When we arrived, there were many families here to get an insight into farm life and have some fun.

If you are not aware, Qian Hu is an integrated “one-stop” ornamental fish service provider where fish lovers can buy ornamental fish as well as aquarium accessories.

The sound of air bubbles and sight of fishes have such therapeutic effect where it makes one feel happier just by gazing at these ‘water friends’.

Qian Hu Fish Farm also provides group tours as well which you can check out here.

Reminisce the good old kampong days. Remember when families got together and children were out playing and enjoyed netting fishes from the canals and streams? Bring your kids down to Qian Hu and let them experience the same excitement and joy of catching their own fishes, bringing them home and caring for them.

Longkang fishing over here for your little ones? A fun activity for families and children where kiddos sprint into action to scoop fishes from simple fishing nets.

Catch of the day! These fishes are live-bearers.

For those who are interested to buy some fishes back, head into the Fish Gallery.

Stacks and stacks of ornamental fishes displayed neatly along the aisles.

Beautiful albino guppies!

Different varieties of cichlid fishes.

Betta corner. A good choice for those who do not want the hassle of setting up fish tank and filtration system.

Bettas, also known as “Siamese fighting fish”, are popular pets recognized for their aggressiveness, interactivity, and low cost for care and maintenance. You do not need air pump to maintain them. They are sturdy and beautiful to look at. The better grades do not come cheap though.

Open-net fish farms.

Clumsy-looking Ranchu Goldfish is popular throughout the world. It originated in China and was further developed in Japan in the late 1800s. With its round, broad body and large bulbous head, it is also known as the Buffalo-head Goldfish, especially in Asia.

Little corners for families and kids to chill out.

Qian Hu Fish Farm Trading
仟湖鱼场贸易
71, Jalan Lekar, Sungei Tengah
Singapore 698950
Tel: 65-6766 7087 (10 Lines)
Fax: 65-6766 3995
Contact: Andy Yap
Email: fishexport@qianhu.com
Website : www.qianhufish.com

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7 Cool Things to Do with Your Girlfriend in Singapore

June 7, 2018 katongkidsinc

Someone says that Singapore is a technology miracle, another one claims that it is the front window of Asia because it is an energetic and inspiring place, which has managed to become one of the best. Singapore is many-faced and magnificent like Ukrainian girls. You can choose many different epithets for the island-city-state of Singapore, but all of them will surely be vivid and not ordinary. Singapore remains one of the greenest cities in the world, having so many astounding futuristic buildings and attracting a big number of people from all over the world. So, what can you do with your girlfriend in Singapore?

1. Look to the Future

The future of science fiction movies will come in Singapore very soon when the first spaceplanes start landing in the airport Changi, and robots say, “Next in line, please!” You should surely look at the steel baobabs of the Gardens by the Bay. In the evening, the lights are turned on, and the magic garden begins to shimmer with colored lights, just like in the Avatar. At an altitude of 22 meters, supertrees are connected by the sky bridge, from which the domes of futuristic greenhouses are visible.

2. Relax on the Beach

When the brain melts because of the heat, you can escape from the stone jungle to the beaches of the tropical island of Sentosa. You can visit each of them during the day because a free tram runs along the coast. If both of you prefer a relaxing holiday in the hammocks under the palm trees, go to Tanjong beach, and if you want to suf and play volleyball, go to the beach of Silos. You can also visit the mangrove thickets of the island of Pulau Ubin. In this Singaporean village, you can ride a bicycle through rubber groves, eat grilled shrimps and look out for rare birds from wooden bridges.

3. Update your Wardrobe

In Singapore, you can find ten boutiques per square meter because local people like brand-name things. Good dressers with packages of Chanel and Louis VUitton go from one showcase to another. If you do not have enough money to buy a Prada handbag, go to Bugis Street, and you will buy the same but from Chinese masters. tripadvisor.jp

4. Shake the Paw of the Lemur

The Singapore Zoo is one fo the most advanced in the world. More than 300 species of animals walk freely through the rainforest. Here, you can have breakfast with organutans, feed the giraffe or dwarf hippo during lunch, and watch the dinner of predators in the evening. Both of you will be excited like kids.

5. Take a Photo on the Edge of the Abyss

Only a lazy person did not see the pictures of the hotel Marina Bay Sands on the Internet. Three 200-meter towers, crowned with a gondola, perfectly fit into the landscape of Singapore’s space harbor. Many people go here to take a photo in the famous swimming pool on the roof, here the water seems to pour over the sides to the abyss. What a stunning view of the bay you will be able to enjoy there!

6. Look at Singapore from a Height

To see whole banana-lemon Singapore at your feet, don’t miss a chance to ride the Ferris Wheel. From the height of a 55-storey building, you will be able to distinguish even the Indonesian islands on the horizon. In the evening, the city lights up with millions of light bulbs, and you feel like superheros on top of the world. If you have a special evening, you can book a separate booth with champagne and dinner for two.

7. Try “Star” Noodles on the Street

Chinese rice with slices of duck is friend in soy sauce on every corner of Chinatown, but you need to stand a kilometer line to try noodles with chicken from the street chef Chan Hong Menga, his street tent has been awarded a Michelin star. If you are fond of spicy chili, go to the Indian city block.

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Harbin 哈尔滨 Travelogue – (Part 4): Scoot Off to The Wintriest Harbin with Kids!

March 26, 2018December 20, 2019 katongkidsinc

Nothing lends whimsy and mystique to a picture quite like a snowy day. Frosty weather is not uncommon in Harbin during winter. First-timers to Harbin 哈尔滨 ought to take a pause and experience the local scene in its originality. It might be 7:30am in the morning but the city had already taken a life of its own.

A Walk on the Streets

Freezing cold at -24°C. Infamous for its very cold winters, bring more clothes than you will think you will need to Harbin so that you can layer.

Food of Harbin has so many kinds of specialities around Central street and Hongbo Century Square that even if we want, we could not finish trying all of them.

One of the best street food, the sweetness and piping hot sweet potatoes will make you fall in love with Harbin.

We explored the side alleys of Central Street and had our simple breakfast in this restaurant.

Broccoli, tofu, rice cake, egg tart and glutinous rice made up our breakfast. We were holding back from ordering more dishes so that we could reserve our stomach for other delicacies.

Guandong Ancient Lane

We met an unfriendly taxi driver who refused to alight us outside Guandong Ancient Lane, which was one of our much anticipated attraction in the itinerary. We were told to walk by ourselves which would take us about 3 mins. We read from a blog that visitors would need to pay but that wasn’t the case. Entry is FOC.

Full of traditional delicacies, Harbin Guandong ancient lane displays culture of the ‘Guandong migration’ period, which refers to the historical period when people migrated from the central part of China to the Northeast. How majestic is this building!

Everything here is indoor. The place displays an ancient feel and there is a sense of unhurried-ness. With a myriad of different dining options and picturesque spots, this might be one of the few places in Harbin where visitors can snack and relax at the same time.

Many pictures taken and will let them do the talking.

Russian chocolates.

We tried peanut candies!

Dragon’s beard candy (or Chinese cotton candy) is a handmade traditional art of China. It is also a traditional Chinese sweet similar to floss halva or Cotton candy.

There is a foodcourt selling classic Chinese dishes.

A great food haunt where dishes are freshly cooked in front of you. We have to admit that they look really appetising.

What A Big Catch!

Located right beside Guandong Ancient Lane is a huge shopping mall. Our first impression was akin to The Paragon where everything would be expensive but after some exploring we thought this mall was a place for bargain hunting.

More than just fashion shops, the mall is a suitable hangout for families with kids.

Plenty of pop-up cafes to have a drink and just chill.

Located at the basement was a huge marketplace for shoppers to shop for groceries and dine.

Freshly squeezed fruit juice with cute bottles.

What a big catch! We were pleasantly surprised that we could order seafood and had them cooked on the spot for us to dine. What till we see the price 🙂

Here’s our order – a lobster (CNY50 = SGD10)

Seabass (CNY30 = SGD6)

皮皮虾 (CNY31 = SGD6)

The chef ushered us to this cosy dining area while we waited for the food.

The restaurant exhibited a homely feeling which made it a favourite place for shoppers to have a respite and enjoy a cup of freshly brewed coffee. The decor and furnishing were contemporary and inviting.

Everything was hot and fresh! Our seafood craving was satisfied in the most economical way.

Including the cooking cost, the total bill came to CNY137.90 = SGD27.60.

Hey, did we mention our food hunting continue after savouring the seafood?

Big and Small M trying the soya bean milk.

Crispy chinese pan fried dumpling (鍋貼).

Chinese flat bread (发面饼).

Cute animal buns!

Time Kingdom

If your little ones enjoy KidZania, they will surely fall in love with Time Kingdom. Akin to KidZania theme style of play, Time Kingdom is also an interactive city made for 3 – 15 year old kids who can immerse themselves into lots of fun through realistic role-play in Harbin.

The Wintriest Harbin

Harbin 哈尔滨, which is nestled in the heart of China’s historical Manchuria region, is still a place less travelled. Apart from its freezing weather during winter, taking a walk in the back alleys allowed us to see these visually pleasing buildings that transported us to a place where time seemed to have been frozen for 40 years, a flashback to a simpler and more peaceful time.

In a mood for supper? Zhongyang Dajie 中央大街 has no lack of eatery options.

Small M was wondering why the chef had to use such a big pot to place the dish.

A thriving late-night dessert culture has taken grasp of Harbin especially among the youngsters. We were surprised that Harbin offers one of the best places to be tempted by decadent desserts.

While Small M trying in vain to search for free Wi-Fi amidst the Great “Wall” of China…

Big M knows it is still possible for a selfie.

Sweet dessert for us! It would be blasphemous to talk about cafe hopping without including them during your visit to Harbin.

We have tasted the wonders of Lapland and in our first trip to China and Harbin, this trip was nothing short of amazing. The locals are warm and approachable and Harbin is safe with a lot of securities. All thanks to Scoot introducing the direct flight to Harbin, we came and captured the raw beauty of this ‘Ice City’. Harbin 哈尔滨, we will be reunited soon!