Jenglot: A mystique creature from Asia

For those of you whom may have watched an Indonesian movie called “Jenglot Pantai Selatan”, the face of Jenglot probably gives you the chill. ‘Jenglot’ is a mysterious creature or vampire that is commonly told in the Indonesian culture and mythology. This creature is as small as a human doll even though it was once a human who meditated in the cave and gained supernatural power, according to the locals. It has a scary looking face that very much resembles the famous Medusa of the Greek mythology.

Indonesia is believed to be the birthplace of Jenglot, Java in specific. These creatures can be found whenever a supernatural ceremony has been performed and they can be crawling in various places, such as the grounds, on a rooftop and even in the trunk of a huge tree. To our surprise, these amazing creatures are actually fed by Jenglot keepers; blood is fed to them, such as human and animal blood. What’s even shocking is that Jenglot keepers can actually buy blood legally from the Indonesia Red Cross! Unlike the type of vampire that sucks blood whenever it has the chance, Jenglot prefers to consume blood whenever it is left alone, out from the sight of human beings. 

Why do Muslims eat dates during Ramadan?

 

Dates are a staple fruit of the Middle-East that have been consumed for thousands of years. It is widely known as a traditional food eaten by Muhammad when he broke his fast. Due to this, Muslims consume dates to break their fast during Ramadan. Muslims are required to fast for a month; due to this, their bodies will become weak, along with minor headaches, dehydration and low blood sugar by sunset. In order to avoid these problems, dates are consumed as they are believed to be rich with fibre, sugar, magnesium, potassium and carbohydrates. The carbohydrates found in dates can provide extra energy too. 

Some of the things you should know when travelling to China

 

Travelling to China for the first time? Be sure to know some of these facts:

1.      Language barrier can be a problem. If you know the Chinese language basics, this advantage will help you while travelling to the country. Mandarin is very useful. You can always buy language learning software before visiting the country.

2.      Since China is a big country, you are advised to plan your trip properly. Decide on which region to visit first and then. Once you have made your decision, make a plan and do some preparations if any. Make sure you learn about the regions that you wish to visit. This is because some places have different cultures and practices.

3.      Learn about the country’s public transportation, from its local schedule to transportation fares. You have to know all these in order to avoid yourself from getting cheated. Your knowledge will come in handy, especially when you are going to take a taxi. There are public buses that will take you around, so consider taking one whenever you can. You will not only save money, but you’ll get to learn your way around the country better.

Visit ZOVBing Singapore now!

Let’s go Zorbing with ZOVBing Singapore! This activity allows players to get into a big clear plastic air-cushioned sphere, where they get strapped up and rolling down a slope in a virtual anti-gravity form of weightlessness like an intoxicated space traveller. Phew…sounds interesting right? Trust us; it’s not difficult at all! If you want to know what it is like to be running on a wheel like a hamster, try the ZOVBing! The activity is perfectly safe too, as there is a big cushion of air between you and the outside.

For more info, click http://www.zovbsg.com/ZOVBloop/Bloop_About.html

The Hong Kong Museum of History

The Hong Kong Museum of History was established in July 1975. In the year 1983, the Museum was moved to the temporary accommodation in Kowloon Park; it was moved to its present premises on Chatham Road South, Tsim Sha Tsui in 1998.

The main museum at Chatham Road South runs five branches museums:

(i)           Hong Kong Museum of Coastal Defence at Shau Kei Wan

(ii)          Lei Cheng Uk Han Tomb Museum at Sham Shui Po

(iii)         Law Uk Folk Museum at Chai Wan

(iv)          Fireboat Alexander Grantham Exhibition Gallery inside the Quarry Bay Park

(v)          Dr. Sun Yat-sen Museum at Mid-levels in Central

Work in Dubai

Want to work abroad? Yes, you can! There are many places that you can go to and it also depends to your interest as well; work in a place that you think you can be comfortable in. Well, if you have no experience staying abroad, perhaps experience it yourself! Dubai is one of the great places to work in although there are of course, the black and white sides about it. Let’s explore the advantages and disadvantages of working in Dubai, shall we?

Some of the things that you should put into consideration:

1.      Financial

In Dubai, you will get to enjoy an income tax free salary! This way, you can always save up more money in your bank account. Having more money in the bank is essential as you may need those extra cash for the rainy days. Why pay so much when you can save more?

2.      Culture

Dubai is a place of culture, both local and international. You will get to see a lot of foreigners around the country; people from all over the world come here to work as Dubai is a country that requires professionals from other countries. Due to the multi-cultural population, you will get to learn about other cultures, language, and religion. However, there are people who prefer to work with people from their own kind; they’re not racist, but some people just have their own preference in certain things.

3.      Travel experience

Working in Dubai enables you to learn and know people from different cultures and backgrounds. Well, if you think getting to know people around Dubai is not enough, you are most welcomed to visit its neighbouring countries! Try visiting Syria, Egypt, Bahrain, Saudi Arabia, Jordan, and many more. You will get to learn more because although each country may practise different lifestyle and holds different political and religious views, they are very kind and welcoming people. This is also the best time to learn Arabic or perhaps, belly dancing!

4.      Free trip home

Being far from your friends and family back home can be stressful sometimes as many people actually suffered from home-sickness when they stay abroad for a very long time. But, don’t worry, if you’re lucky, you might get your company to pay for your trip back to your home country. Most companies in Dubai would do that, so cross your fingers!

5.      Freedom

Working in Dubai is an experience no one should miss! This emirate city has the largest population and second largest land territory among all the emirates, after Abu Dhabi. It is also one of the most well-known Arab countries for having more freedom compared to the other Middle-east countries. Night clubs are available, so you and your friends can always come over for a beer. Yes, there are more freedom here but remember to always behave too.

6.      Climate

Dubai has a very hot arid climate and if you can’t stand the heat, be prepared for this if you are going to stay there for a very long time. Summer in Dubai is even hotter; it is also windy and humid (108 °F in average). Most people find it to be uncomfortable, but to those who are used to hot weather, they tend to adapt faster.

7.      Habits

Likewise, there are so many people of different nationalities in Dubai. Can you imagine how many types of people that you’ll be dealing with? There are good and bad people; you have to learn to tolerate with others, especially when driving on the road. The road is definitely a place that challenges one’s patience.

8.      Learn to respect

You probably have your own views on certain things and the values practised are also different than the others, especially those from different cultures and backgrounds. If you are not careful with your words, this may lead you to some unwanted actions. Learn to be a good listener and bear in mind that some things are just for you to know; you don’t want to touch on sensitive issues that may put yourself into troubles. Always respect the locals and learn to be patient. If you have to learn to be or behave like the locals, try to do so; but, NEVER compare and downgrade their culture. You don’t want them to tell you to get out from the country, don’t you? So, learn to respect and love each other.

Travel tips when travelling to Vietnam

Here are some travel tips for travellers who are travelling or planning to travel to Vietnam.

1. Taxi services are available at all time. The prices is about 1$ for the first 2km, and every kilometre thereafter costs about 0.5$. Try asking the locals about the rates to prevent yourself from getting cheated by dishonest taxi drivers.
2. If you prefer to drive, you can also rent a car or motorbikes which are available at most travel agencies. There are a wide range of cars you can rent there.
3. There are lots of fresh fruits such as oranges, dragon fruit, and apple which are widely available. It is recommended that all fruits should be peeled before eaten.
4. Drink enough mineral water in bottle if possible since there are cheap and available everywhere. It’s best not to drink water or tea with ice from the street. They may not be clean, so don’t take the risk!

Let’s climb Mount Kinabalu!

For those who love adventures, head down to Malaysia & climb Mount Kinabalu! Located in Sabah, this 4095m mountain is the tallest mountain in South-East Asia! Thousands of tourists visit Kinabalu National Park each year and most of them for the sake of climbing the mountain. You may take about 2 days in order to reach its peak & it’s best to have enough rest before you start your journey. Wouldn’t it be cool if you could tell the world that you have already conquered Mount Kinabalu? Try it today!

Cambodian cuisines

The foods in Cambodia are quite similar to its neighbouring country, Thailand. However, the foods are less spicy. Well-known for being healthy and nutritious, Cambodian cuisines can be found in many countries across Asia, including Europe. The staple food for Cambodians is rice & it is consumed by most Cambodians daily and with all meals, utilising a great number of cooking styles and techniques.

Ingredients:

1. Vegetables

The Khmer cuisines use a lot of vegetables such as winter melon, luffa and yardlong beans; these vegetables are used to make soups and stews. As for fried dishes, mushrooms, cabbage, baby corn, ginger, kailan, snow peas, bok choy and bamboo shoots are used.

2. Fruits

In Cambodia, fruits have their own titles; durian is known as the “King of fruits”, Mangosteen is known as the “Queen”, Sapodilla as the “Prince” and the milk fruit is known as the “Princess”. Fruits like Pineapple, Star Apple, Coconut, Jackfruit, Papaya, Watermelon, Banana, Mango and Rambutam are also some of the popular ones. These fruits are used in the Khmer cuisines and they are consumed with salted fish and plain rice. Besides that, they are also used to make fruit juices. “Tu kolok” are Cambodia’s popular shakes.

3. Fish & Meat

The Khmer cuisines use a lot of freshwater fish, which are caught from the Mekong River, Bassac River and Tonle Sap. The Cambodians consume more fish compared to meats with 60% of fish forms contribute to Cambodian’s protein intake. Although fish is consumed more than meat, pork is quite popular, especially in making sweet Khmer sausages known as the Twah Ko. Did you know that lobsters are considered as a dish for the upper class? Lobsters are expensive and due to that, only the middle-class and rich ones will get to eat them at Sihanoukville. During festive seasons, ducks are commonly cooked and some of the exotic ones are like frogs, turtles and Tarantulas.

List of Cambodian cuisines:

1. Amok

One of  Cambodia’s most popular dishes amongst visitors

2. Mee Kola

Burmese style vegetarian noodles, specially made for all vege lovers, with thin rice noodles, steamed and cooked with soy sauce and garlic chives.

3. Khor

A delicious stew of pig trotters, cooked with eggs, fish sauce, caremelised palm sugar and black kampot pepper.

I suggest you try Cambodian cuisines today. There are of course, Cambodia cuisines all around the world but I personally think you all should also visit the country and try the locally cooked Cambodian cuisines. Who knows, they may taste much more delicious compared to the ones served abroad! 😀

Travelling with your dog

Leaving dog at home is not very pleasant for some dog lovers as they are concern about their dog’s well-care. Some would take their dogs with them when travelling abroad. I personally would travel with my dog too even if it means I will have to travel with responsibilities; I have to take care of it if I choose to take it along with me. If you are going through this dilemma, be sure of what to do. Dogs after all, are almost like little children that need to be given extra attention; the difference is that dogs can take care of themselves better than little children.

Taking your dog for a vacation isn’t a bad thing at all if the whole family enjoys its company. As long as you treat it like a family, your holiday will be a great one! Before you take it out for a vacation, make sure you send your dog to the vet for a check-up; perhaps send it for vaccinations and a groom session. Always bring enough dog food for your dog such as the pedigree. You can buy more at the nearest pet shops in the country of visit. A crate is essential to keep your dog safe in the car and it is required if you are travelling on an airplane. Choose a crate with good quality to ensure your dog gets the best comfort and security. Some airlines will not transport pets during extreme hot and cold weathers, so be sure to ask the airlines first if you wish to travel with your dog.

Like us, dogs also need identification. Failure to do so will cause your dog to get caught by the animal control, so be sure to put on a collar around its neck. The collar must have an identification tag that displays the dog’s name, home phone number, and a valid proof of rabies shots. Another useful tip is to always keep a photo of your dog.

Taking your dog on a car trip would probably excite it, especially when it gets to put out its head out of the car window, where it gets to see the beautiful views and feel the fresh air. But, bear in mind that this could be quite dangerous for both of you. If you are going to let it do that, make sure it is watched carefully to prevent unwanted accidents. Always tell your kids not to annoy the dog while travelling in the car because like humans, dogs can be quite moody sometimes. Nobody likes to be annoyed, so why annoy the dog?

Staying in a hotel would probably be a problem for you as many hotels do not allow pets. Please ask the management first before you book the room. If you are allowed to take your dog with you, make sure that it doesn’t make too much noise as it will distract the other guests. Try not to leave it alone in the room because they would bark when left alone.