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Top 7 Things to do and Attractions in Siem Reap Cambodia!

Tom stealing a kiss at Angkor Wat during sunrise

When you think about Siem Reap in Cambodia, what do you think of? Temples, temples and more temples? To help you avoid the “Temple Fatigue”, here are the top 7 things to do and attractions in Siem Reap Cambodia!

Top 7 Things to do and Attractions in Siem Reap Cambodia

1. Tuk Tuk Ride

Our trusty tuk tuk driver in Siem Reap Cambodia - Lin!
Our trusty tuk tuk driver in Siem Reap Cambodia – Lin!
Tuk Tuk Ride Siem Reap
Tuk Tuk Ride Siem Reap

When visiting Siem Reap, remember to try the Tuk Tuk rides! That’s when you can really feel the wind in your hair and the people in the streets! A ride costs approximately USD$5 for a return trip from your hotel to the city and USD$15-$20 for a full day (especially needed for your visit to the Ankor Temple Complex).

2. Ankor Complex

Ankor Wat Temple

Tom stealing a kiss at Angkor Wat during sunrise
Tom stealing a kiss at Angkor Wat during sunrise
2bearbear at Ankor Wat Siem Reap
2bearbear at Ankor Wat Siem Reap
Ankor Wat Temple Siem Reap Cambodia
Ankor Wat Temple Siem Reap Cambodia

Bayon Temple

Bayon Temple Siem Reap Cambodia
Bayon Temple Siem Reap Cambodia
Elephant Rides at Bayon Temple
Elephant Rides at Bayon Temple
2bearbear @ Bayon Temple Siem Reap Cambodia
2bearbear @ Bayon Temple Siem Reap Cambodia

Ankor Thom Temple (aka Tomb Raider Angelina Jolie Temple)

Kate trying an Angelina Jolie kick at Angkor Thom Temple
Kate trying an Angelina Jolie kick at Angkor Thom Temple
Angkor Thom spot featured in Tomb Raider with Angelina Jolie
Angkor Thom spot featured in Tomb Raider with Angelina Jolie
2bearbear @ BAnkor Thom Temple Siem Reap Cambodia
2bearbear @ BAnkor Thom Temple Siem Reap Cambodia

To help you avoid “Temple Fatigue” at the Angkor Complex, you can limit your visit to only

i. Angkor Wat. Because it is the most beautiful temple structure within the complex.
ii. Bayon. Because of the many smiling faces and photo opportunity with actors in traditional costumes.
iii. Angkor Thom. Because Angelina Jolie shot Tomb Raider there.

After a while, all other temples will look more or less the same. Remember to hire a tuk tuk for a day to ease your transfers from temple to temple. Please do not attempt to walk…

3. Pub Street Siem Reap

Fresh catch at Pub Street Siem Reap
Fresh catch at Pub Street Siem Reap
Alleys around Pub Street Siem Reap Cambodia
Alleys around Pub Street Siem Reap Cambodia
Views over Pub Street from second level of Beer Battle
Views over Pub Street from second level of Beer Battle

After a day out at the Ankor Complex, Pub Street is a great venue to chill out. If you’re having your dinner there, many restaurants offer beers on tap for a mere USD$1! There are also many venues with live music, performances and clubs till the wee hours of the morning.

4. Siem Reap Old Market

Siem Reap Old Market
Siem Reap Old Market
Inside Siem Reap Old Market
Inside Siem Reap Old Market
Wet market area of Siem Reap Old Market
Wet market area of Siem Reap Old Market

Siem Reap Old Market offers tourists an opportunity to shop for souvenirs such as t-shirts, magnets and display items – much akin to Ben Thanh Market in Ho Chi Minh City and Bogyoke Market in Yangon. Of course, it is also very much a market for the locals. You can buy shoes, textiles, get a manicure/pedicure, visit the hair salon and buy fruits and vegetables from the wet market before going back. North Face jackets go for 70USD here (20USD cheaper than that at pub street)!

5. Angkor Night Market

Angkor Night Market
Angkor Night Market
Cheap massage and pedicure/manicure at Angkor Night Market
Cheap massage and pedicure/manicure at Angkor Night Market
Angkor Night Market shops open from 5pm onwards

The Angkor Night Market is a cleaner (night) version of the Old Market. Because of its al fresco concept, the air quality is also better than that at the Old Market. Definitely a nice place to shop, chill and spend the evening at.

Tip: Prices are the cheapest at the Temple Complex, followed by the Night Market, followed by Pub Street. Hence, try not to do your souvenir shopping at Pub Street.

6. Movies @ Angkor Cinema

Angkor Cinema @ Level 2 of Angkor Trade Center
Angkor Cinema @ Level 2 of Angkor Trade Center
2bearbear inside Angkor Cinema @ Angkor Trade Center
2bearbear inside Angkor Cinema @ Angkor Trade Center
Theory of Everything @ Angkor Cinema
Theory of Everything @ Angkor Cinema

Drop in ANYTIME at Angkor Cinema and you can catch your favourite movie at just 5USD per person. This is because, the concept of the cinema is like that of a KTV in Singapore. You’ll enter a private room (complete with large sofa chairs and surround sound) and they’ll play the movie you’ve selected. As simple as that. Payment is made before you enter.

7. Dining in Siem Reap

Tom enjoying Cambodian BBQ and Hotpot at Easy Speaking BBQ
Tom enjoying Cambodian BBQ and Hotpot at Easy Speaking BBQ
Pork Ribs and Mango Salad Khmer Kitchen Restaurant
Pork Ribs and Mango Salad Khmer Kitchen Restaurant

Beef in Lok Lak Style Mahob Restaurant

Desserts at Mahob Khmer Cuisine Restaurant Siem Reap
Desserts at Mahob Khmer Cuisine Restaurant Siem Reap
Lemon Tart with Raspberry Sorbet and an iced Cappucino
Lemon Tart with Raspberry Sorbet and an iced Cappucino

Getting tipsy at Pub Street
Getting tipsy at Pub Street

There are many dining options in Siem Reap which we’ll show you in our next post!

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We hope you have enjoyed our coverage of the 7 top things to do and attractions in Siem Reap Cambodia. Let us know what you think in our comments section below!

Top 4 Things to do and Attractions in Pattaya, Thailand!

Things to do and attractions in Pattaya Thailand

Having done our cruise to Laem Chabang on Mariner of the Seas, we took the opportunity to stay over at Pattaya, Thailand. This post will cover all the things to do and attractions in Pattaya, Thailand! Enjoy!

Where to stay in Pattaya Thailand

1. Royal Cliff Hotel Pattaya

Thanks to the good folks of Royal Cliff Hotel Pattaya, we were hosted to a stay at the Mini Suite Plus of the hotel. Situated in the Gulf of Thailand, Royal Cliff Hotel offers magnificent views of the sunset over Ko Khrok Island DAILY! Whether its a romantic or beach bum getaway, you’ll be sure to find a suitable room (and affordable price) at the Royal Cliff Hotel Pattaya!

 Sea View Plus Suite Royal Cliff Beach Hotel
Sea View Plus Suite Royal Cliff Beach Hotel

 Jacuzzi inside the Presidential Platinum Suite of Royal Wing Suites and Spa
Jacuzzi inside the Presidential Platinum Suite of Royal Wing Suites and Spa

 Royal Cliff's Private Beach next to Royal Cliff Beach Terrace
Royal Cliff’s Private Beach next to Royal Cliff Beach Terrace

 Infini Pool (aka Infinity Pool) of Royal Cliff Hotels
Infini Pool (aka Infinity Pool) of Royal Cliff Hotels

 Sunset by the Infinity Pool of the Royal Cliff Hotels
Sunset by the Infinity Pool of the Royal Cliff Hotels

Pattaya Thailand Attractions and Things to do

2. Pattaya Walking Street

 Walking Street Pattaya
Walking Street Pattaya

 Walking Street Pattaya Pubs, Restaurants, Massage parlours
Walking Street Pattaya Pubs, Restaurants, Massage parlours

Pattaya Walking Street is one of the main tourist attractions in Pattaya. There are loads of entertainment options along this stretch of street ranging from F&B to pubs, shows, massages and more. As you walk from the walking street towards the beach area, you’ll be able to find great (clean) massages for less than $10 an hour! :O

3. Pattaya Beach

Beach Activities - Island Hopping at Pattaya
Beach Activities – Island Hopping at Pattaya

 Soaking up the sun in Pattaya
Soaking up the sun in Pattaya

Frankly speaking, the beach at Pattaya? One word. Disappointing. This stretch of sand is really what you get (yes, the “width” of the beach is maybe 10 steps wide, maybe 5 for Tom). The only saving grace is that there are 2 things that you can do from Pattaya Beach. Island hopping is one of the main things that you can do from Pattaya Beach and you can visit neighbouring islands such as Koh Larn, Koh Si Chang or Coral island. That’s really where you can enjoy the clear blue waters and wide sandy beaches. Not at Pattaya Beach though.

You can also get to do some water activities at Pattaya Beach. The usual suspects of para-sailing and jet-skiing are available from your friendly touters at the beach πŸ™‚

4. Shopping!!!

There are a few shopping options along Pattaya Beach which includes

 Royal Garden Plaza Pattaya
Shopping at Royal Garden Plaza Pattaya – Right in Front of the Beach!

 Central Festival right next to Hilton Pattaya
Central Festival right next to Hilton Pattaya

 Best mango sticky rice at only 80 baht!
Best mango sticky rice at only 80 baht! Look inside the supermarket of Central Festival downstairs

Don’t forget to try the mango sticky rice inside the supermarket of Central Festival. YOU WON’T REGRET IT! Good for 2 to share!

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Things to do and attractions in Pattaya Thailand
Things to do and attractions in Pattaya Thailand

We hope that you have enjoyed our coverage of the things to do and attractions in Pattaya, Thailand. Don’t forget to check out this post before your next visit to Pattaya Thailand!

Top 10 Things to do and Attractions in Ipoh Malaysia!

Ipoh Town Bridge - Across the River Kinta

There are many things to do and attractions in Ipoh and in this post, we’ll show you the attractions, things to do and what to eat (especially in this food paradise) in Ipoh!

Things to do in Ipoh Malaysia

As Ipoh was one of the administrative centers during the colonial rule, you’ll realise that many of these historic buildings still remain today.

1. Birch Memorial Clocktower

Birch Memorial Clocktower with 44 famous personalities in history engraved on it
Birch Memorial Clocktower with 44 famous personalities in history engraved on it
Another view of the Birch Memorial Clocktower in Ipoh
Another view of the Birch Memorial Clocktower in Ipoh

2. Ipoh Railway Station

Ipoh Railway Station
Ipoh Railway Station

3. Ipoh City Hall

Ipoh City Hall
Ipoh City Hall

4. Hong Kong and Shanghai Bank

Hong Kong and Shanghai Bank
Hong Kong and Shanghai Bank

5. Ipoh High Court

Ipoh High Court
Ipoh High Court

6. Ipoh Town Bridge

Ipoh Town Bridge - Across the River Kinta
Ipoh Town Bridge – Across the River Kinta

On Sunday mornings, Memory Lane (along Jalan Lim Bo Seng) turns into a flea market, mainly for the sale of 2nd hand goods.

7. Memory Lane

Memory Lane Flea Market at Jalan Lim Bo Seng Ipoh
Memory Lane Flea Market at Jalan Lim Bo Seng Ipoh

Attractions in Ipoh Malaysia

8. Lost World Hot Springs and Spa

Lost World Hot Springs and Spa
Lost World Hot Springs and Spa

Alternatively, you can opt for one of the spa packages at Crystal Spa (within Lost World Hot Springs and Spa) and gain entry for free.

What to eat in Ipoh Malaysia

In our list of Top 10 things to eat in Ipoh Malaysia, we mentioned what you should try when you’re there. But if we were to narrow the list down for you, there’s really 2 foods that you MUST try in Ipoh…

9. Snow Beer

A bottle of snow beer at 14RM - Kafe Sun Yoon Wah Ipoh
A bottle of snow beer at 14RM – Kafe Sun Yoon Wah Ipoh

10. Ipoh Hor Fun

Restoran Ong Kee Tauge Ayam (Beansprouts chicken) @ Jalan Yau Tet Shin
Restoran Ong Kee Tauge Ayam (Beansprouts chicken) @ Jalan Yau Tet Shin

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6 Amazing Travel Experiences in Penang!

When you think of travelling to Penang? What do you think of? The UNESCO heritage site of Georgetown? The vibrant (and delicious) hawker food scene? Or simply chilling at Batu Ferringhi beach? In this post, we’ll show you 6 Amazing Travel Experiences in Penang that you won’t want to miss!

1. Exploring Batu Ferringhi Beach

Batu Ferringhi Beach Penang
Batu Ferringhi Beach
Batu Ferringhi Beach Night Market
Batu Ferringhi Beach Night Market
Rock Spa Experience
Rock Spa Experience

Most people discount the fact that Penang does have an excellent beach that faces the Andaman Sea and Malacca Straits. Batu Ferringhi is its name. Located at the northern tip of Penang, Batu Ferringhi offers beach goers all you’d expect at a reputable beach – fine pristine sand (especially at Hard Rock Hotel Penang), beach activities (including para-sailing, banana boat rides and jet skiing) and even horse back riding by the beach.

After all the fun you’ve had at the beach, head on out to one of the many excellent spas located along Batu Ferringhi beach – including the award winning Rock Spa @ Hard Rock Hotel and Chi Spa @ Rasa Sayang Resort and Spa.

As the evening winds down, check out the night markets along the roads next to the beaches. Many road side stalls open till late at night offering tourists the option of souvenir shopping (including sun glasses, hand bags and wallets) and late night supper at Batu Ferringhi.

2. Looking Out for Street Arts & Wall Murals

Street Art Penang - Less Salt Thinning Hair
Street Art Penang – Less Salt Thinning Hair
Penang Street Art - Budget Hotel
Penang Street Art – Budget Hotel
Penang Street Art - Trishaw Mural
Penang Street Art – Trishaw Mural

Penang is littered with amazing street arts and wall murals. One of the most famous one is this mural of a trishaw uncle in the heart of Jalan Penang that almost covers the entire building facade. We also noticed several comical street art that brings across daily conversations in Penang through light-hearted colloquial jokes.

3. Wandering the Streets of Georgetown – UNESCO World Heritage Site

Penang Historic Streets
Penang Historic Streets
Colonial Buildings Penang - Birch House
Colonial Buildings Penang – Birch House
Colonial Buildings Penang - Eastern & Oriental Hotel
Colonial Buildings Penang – Eastern & Oriental Hotel
Colonial Buildings Penang - St Jos Gurney Paragon
Colonial Buildings Penang – St Jos Gurney Paragon
Fort Cornwallis Penang
Fort Cornwallis Penang
Blue Mansion Penang - Cheong Fatt Tze Mansion
Blue Mansion Penang – Cheong Fatt Tze Mansion

Since 2007, Penang’s Georgetown has been named as an UNESCO World Heritage Site because of the rich history of this precinct. You will be able to spot many colonial-styled buildings such as the Eastern & Oriental Hotel and Birch House as well as the many traditional chinese architectures along the streets. Fort Cornwallis, one of the best preserved forts in Malaysia also bears testament to Penang’s colonial roots.

To round off this historic trip, check out Cheong Fatt Tze Mansion (better known as the Blue Mansion). Within, you’ll be able to see how the ultra-rich pampered themselves in this 38 room mansion – luxurious even by today’s standards.

4. Trishaw Ride in Penang

Trishaw Uncle Penang
Trishaw Uncle Penang
Trishaw Ride Penang
Trishaw Ride Penang

Trishaw Ride Penang Video

Another amazing experience in Penang that you should try is the trishaw ride. We took a trishaw ride from Komtar back to our hotel at Eastern & Oriental. The ride took about 10 minutes and cost 15RM. What we enjoyed about this ride was the “alfresco” style of the ride. As the sun shone while we rode past the historic lanes (with winds gently blowing against your face), that made the ride really worthwhile. Be ready for a bit of excitement while the trishaw weaves in and out of traffic!

5. Penang Hawker Food

Ah Leng Char Koay Teow
Ah Leng Char Koay Teow
Penang Char Hor Fun
Penang Char Hor Fun
Penang Road Teochew Chendul
Penang Road Teochew Chendul

Penang is the home to Malaysian hawker food. Here you will be able to find famous Penang hawker fare such as Penang Char Koay Teow, Char Hor Fun, Penang Road Teochew Chendul and much much more. Check out our post on the “13 Penang Hawker Food and Nonya Restaurants that You MUST TRY” to find out more!

6. Penang Nonya Food

Mama's Nonya Cuisine
Mama’s Nonya Cuisine
Nonya Curry Chicken Rice RM8.80 (ε°ε¨˜ζƒΉ)
Nonya Curry Chicken Rice RM8.80 (ε°ε¨˜ζƒΉ)
The Little Nonya Cuisine (ε°ε¨˜ζƒΉ)
The Little Nonya Cuisine (ε°ε¨˜ζƒΉ)

Still on food (what else? :p), one must try Penang’s nonya food. The Little Nonya Cuisine (ε°ε¨˜ζƒΉ) as well as Mama’s Nonya Cuisine offers some of the best nonya food in Penang at an affordable price.

Where to stay in Penang?

Hard Rock Hotel Penang
Hard Rock Hotel Penang
Rasa Sayang Resort & Spa Penang
Rasa Sayang Resort & Spa Penang
Eastern and Oriental Hotel Penang
Eastern and Oriental Hotel Penang

Our top picks for hotels at the Batu Ferringhi area includes the Rasa Sayang Resort & Spa as well as the Hard Rock Hotel Penang. In Georgetown? The famous Eastern and Oriental Hotel Penang!

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Top 10 Things to Eat in Ipoh Malaysia!

Restoran Ong Kee Ipoh - fresh firm chicken splashed with soy sauce and sesame oil

Ipoh is a food paradise! But if you’re wondering what are some of the things you must eat in Ipoh Malaysia, here are the top 10 picks of what to eat in Ipoh! By the way, this food list is in descending order, which means no.1 is a MUST TRY!

What to eat in Ipoh Malaysia

10. Ipoh Parade Shopping Centre Food Court – Popiah

Ipoh Parade Shopping Center Food Court Popiah - 2 for 5RM
Ipoh Parade Shopping Center Food Court Popiah – 2 for 5RM
Rich and crispy filling inside the Ipoh popiah
Rich and crispy filling inside the Ipoh popiah

At the top floor of Ipoh Parade Shopping Center, you’ll find this food court, within which, there’s a stall that has its sign board that states “Popiah”. This was a really surprise find for us because we were not having lunch but were feeling peckish. The aunty sort of recommended her popiah while we walked by her stall and we tried. To our surprise, it had several layers of taste to it. Crispy, moist, fresh and tasty fillings. Try it if you’re in the vicinity!

9. MYDIN Wholesale Hypermarket in Bandar Meru Raya, Ipoh – My Nasi Kandar

My Nasi Kandar at Mydin Mall Ipoh
My Nasi Kandar at Mydin Mall Ipoh
Tandoori Chicken @ My Nasi Kandar Ipoh - 6RM
Tandoori Chicken @ My Nasi Kandar Ipoh – 6RM
Naan @ My Nasi Kandar Mydin Mall Ipoh - 2.3RM
Naan @ My Nasi Kandar Mydin Mall Ipoh – 2.3RM

Mydin Mall is located at PT 229142, Jalan Meru Bestari B2, Bandar Meru Raya, 30020 Jelapang, Ipoh, Perak Darul Ridzuan. What happened was this. We were supposed to take a bus leaving Amanjaya Bus Terminal after booking for the bus online. Guess what? There was no such bus leaving that morning when we arrived at the terminal! So we went to all the booths that sold tickets to source for the next available ride to Singapore. We even met up with others who were supposed to be on the same bus and thought of car pooling. But in the end, we decided against taking a ride to Johor to transfer from there. Instead, we waited at Mydin Mall (a short walk from Amanjaya Bus Terminal) for our direct bus trip back to Singapore.

In the meantime, we managed to squeeze in a meal at My Nasi Kandar (after seeing all the crowds there). After trying the tandoori, we understood why the crowd was there. We could taste the spices, the tenderness and the juiciness of the chicken tandoori. Surprisingly good we must say πŸ™‚

8. Cendol at Mr Cendol Mydin Mall

Soya Special Cendol at Mr Cendol Ipoh
Soya Special Cendol at Mr Cendol Ipoh

Still within Mydin Mall, along the circumference of the mall was Mr Cendol. We’ve tried several cendols in Singapore before but since the place was called Mr Cendol, we thought they might offer something different. We sat down and ordered the Soya Special. Turns out that instead of using just shaved ice, the ice was made of soya milk and topped off with ice cream. Sedap!

7. Dim Sum at Restoran Ying Fa

Restoran Ying Fa Dim Sum Ipoh
Restoran Ying Fa Dim Sum Ipoh

Restoran Ying Fa is located at 1C, Jalan Sultan Yussuf (Belfied Street), Old Town, Perak, Ipoh Town, 30000. We actually arrived in Ipoh at 5am in the morning and were offered transportation by a uncle who had 6 fingers on one of his hands. Hence, he has a nick-name called liu zhi οΌˆε…­ζŒ‡ – literally meaning six fingers). He offered to take us to our hotel (for a fee of course – 20RM) and so we requested for a dim sum place enroute. We were taken to Ying Fa Restoran!

Dim sum at Ying Fa Restoran including chee cheong fun, siew mai, century egg with chicken ball ranging from 3 to 3.5RM
Dim sum at Ying Fa Restoran including chee cheong fun, siew mai, century egg with chicken ball ranging from 3 to 3.5RM
Dim sum served on traditional carts at Restoran Ying Fa Ipoh
Dim sum served on traditional carts at Restoran Ying Fa Ipoh

All in all, we spent only 22RM for all the dim sum that we had. Quality was ok but the price was really economical. So do head on down if you have a craving for dim sum!

6. Kedai Makanan Nam Heong

Kedai Makanan Nam Heong - Distributor of White Coffee at 2 Jalan Bandar Timah Ipoh
Kedai Makanan Nam Heong – Distributor of White Coffee at 2 Jalan Bandar Timah Ipoh

Kedai Makanan Nam Heong is located at 2, Jalan Bandar Timah, Ipoh Perak, 30000. There are 2 reasons why you should visit Kedai Makanan Nam Heong coffeeshop.

Firstly, it is one of the main distributors of white coffee in Ipoh. We’ve tried the iced white coffee and it was really strong and aromatic. Unlike some diluted ones that we’ve tried before. To learn more about the meaning of white coffee, follow the link to our Things to do in Kluang Malaysia post.

Secondly, Makanan Nam Heong is actually an amalgamation of several amazing foods in Ipoh including ipoh hor fun, curry mee, penang prawn noodles, char kway teow and dim sum! Of which, the smell of the char kway teow was really irresistable. Definitely a MUST TRY!

Lim Fong Char Kway Teow @ Kedai Makanan Nam Heong Ipoh
Lim Fong Char Kway Teow @ Kedai Makanan Nam Heong Ipoh
Kedai Makanan Nam Heong Curry Mee Ipoh
Kedai Makanan Nam Heong Curry Mee Ipoh
Ipoh Hor Fun and Penang Prawn Noodles @ Nam Heong Coffeeshop
Ipoh Hor Fun and Penang Prawn Noodles @ Nam Heong Coffeeshop
Nam Heong Dim Sum Ipoh
Nam Heong Dim Sum Ipoh

5. Restoran Ipoh Kong Heng

Caramel Custard @ Restoran Thean Chun and More Food Choices at Restoran Ipoh Kong Heng
Caramel Custard @ Restoran Thean Chun and More Food Choices at Restoran Ipoh Kong Heng
Fried and normal popiah for 3.8RM at Restoran Ipoh Kong Heng
Fried and normal popiah for 3.8RM at Restoran Ipoh Kong Heng
Restoran Ipoh Kong Heng - Sliced chicken sar hor fun
Restoran Ipoh Kong Heng – Sliced chicken sar hor fun

Restoran Ipoh Kong Heng is located at 74 Jalan Bandar Timah, 30000 Ipoh, Perak, Malaysia. Here, there are actually alot of food choices including the traditional ipoh hor fun, the sar hor fun (that we had) as well as the mixed popiahs (see above). The prawn soup of the sar hor fun was especially flavourful. Coupled with the springy hor fun and firm chicken slices? Yummilicious! As for the mixed popiah, the normal popiah actually tasted better although the option of tasting the fried version was interesting.

4. Traditional Hor Fun

Traditional Hor Fun at a zi char stall in Ipoh
Traditional Hor Fun at a zi char stall in Ipoh

If you have read our post questioning whether the standard of zi char in Singapore has dropped? It was all triggered by this plate of beautifully constructed hor fun. Simple dish with springy hor fun and tasty gravy. Nope, this was not at a famous place but at a random coffee shop that we visited. Speaks alot about the quality of food (especially hor fun) in Ipoh.

3. Funny Mountain Soya Bean

Kacang Soya Funny Mountain Beancurd Ipoh
Kacang Soya Funny Mountain Beancurd Ipoh
Brisk business at Funny Mountain Soya Bean Ipoh
Brisk business at Funny Mountain Soya Bean Ipoh
Bean curd at Funny Mountain Ipoh
Bean curd at Funny Mountain Ipoh

Funny Mountain Bean Curd is located at 49, Jalan Theatre (Jalan Mustapha Al-Bakri), 30300 Ipoh, Perak. We actually tried the bean curd because of the long queue indicating that they must be doing something right in their concoction of soya bean products. However, we think that the soya bean curd that we tried was a tad too sweet. In addition, we have been spoilt by the silky smooth soya bean curds in Singapore. So the bean curd here was quite normal for us. But still, there’s a reason why the crowds are streaming in, so do tell us what you think in the comments section below!

2. Kafe Sun Yoon Wah Snow Beer

Kafe Sun Yoon Wah Snow Beer Ipoh
Kafe Sun Yoon Wah Snow Beer Ipoh
A bottle of snow beer at 14RM - Kafe Sun Yoon Wah Ipoh
A bottle of snow beer at 14RM – Kafe Sun Yoon Wah Ipoh
Kafe Sun Yoon Wah Ipoh Stir Fried Calamari
Kafe Sun Yoon Wah Ipoh Stir Fried Calamari
Kafe Sun Yoon Wah Ipoh - Pork Rib King Yum!
Kafe Sun Yoon Wah Ipoh – Pork Rib King Yum!
Kafe Sun Yoon Wah Ipoh - Malay Style Kang Kong
Kafe Sun Yoon Wah Ipoh – Malay Style Kang Kong

Kafe Sun Yoon Wah is located at 7,Jalan Bijih Timah, Ipoh Old Town, 30000 Ipoh, Malaysia. Definitely, strongly recommended. The snow beer is actually formed by quickly pouring beer into a chilled mug. The bubbles then forms the frost like bits because of the ice cold mug, forming the well-known snow beer. It was a totally new experience for us, quite unlike Heineken extra cold or ice cold Tiger Beer. In addition, try the stir fried calamari that goes really well with the beer. The only catch is that you must drink the snow beer relatively quickly once its poured, else it will just become normal cold beer.

1. Restoran Ong Kee Tauge Ayam – Beansprouts with chicken and hor fun

Restoran Ong Kee Tauge Ayam (Beansprouts chicken) @ Jalan Yau Tet Shin Ipoh
Restoran Ong Kee Tauge Ayam (Beansprouts chicken) @ Jalan Yau Tet Shin Ipoh
Restoran Ong Kee Ipoh - fresh firm chicken splashed with soy sauce and sesame oil
Restoran Ong Kee Ipoh – fresh firm chicken splashed with soy sauce and sesame oil
Restoran Ong Kee Ipoh - Fat Beansprouts
Restoran Ong Kee Ipoh – Fat Beansprouts
Restoran Ong Kee Ipoh - Go for the Horfun and mix i the chicken and beansprouts!
Restoran Ong Kee Ipoh – Go for the Horfun and mix i the chicken and beansprouts!

Restoran Ong Kee is located at 48, Jalan Yau Tet Shin, 30000 Ipoh, Perak. If there’s one food that you must try, it has got to be the beansprouts chicken with hor fun at Restoran Ong Kee. Some people say that because of the water here in Ipoh, the hor fun is extra taong (springy) and the bean sprouts are extra fat (as you can see from the picture above). It really is true. Mixing in the chicken and bean sprouts (with a dash of the chicken sauce) into the hor fun will give you a perfect combination of what Ipoh hor fun is really about.

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Thoughts on what to eat in Ipoh Malaysia

In fact, there are many other good food in Ipoh including the salt-baked chicken and caramel custards. But nonetheless, if there’s two food that we’d recommend, it’ll certainly be the Ipoh Hor Fun at Restoran Ong Kee and the snow beer at Kafe Sun Yoon Wah.

Click here for a price comparison of the hotels available in Ipoh.

Do let us know if there are other good food to eat in Ipoh that you’d like to recommend in the comments section below!

Top 20 Foods from 2014 Travels!

Ice cream toppings at Miyahara Ice Cream

This food list originally started off as the “Top 10 foods from 2014 Travels”. But as we went through our posts in 2014, we realised that there are alot of great foods that we’ve tried and would like to share them with you! So here it goes…

Top 20 Foods from 2014 World Travels

Ho Chi Minh City Vietnam

20. Vietnam Coffee and Grilled Pork / Spring Roll Vermicelli (Ben Thanh Market)

Vietnam Coffee and Grilled Pork / Spring Roll Vermicelli for a total of 100,000 dong about 5USD
Vietnam Coffee and Grilled Pork / Spring Roll Vermicelli for a total of 100,000 dong about 5USD

Vietnam Coffee and Grilled Pork / Spring Roll Vermicelli

19. Prawn and Chicken Spring Roll (Saigon Centre Cafe Terrace)

Prawn and chicken spring roll Saigon Centre Cafe Terrace
Prawn and chicken spring roll Saigon Centre Cafe Terrace

Prawn and chicken spring roll

While we were in Ho Chi Minh City (HCMC), Vietnam, we tried the foods at Ben Thanh Market as well as Saigon Centre. What impressed us was the fresh ingredients used and prepared in such a way that it brings out the natural flavours of each ingredient. Our favourite from this trip were the Grilled Pork & Spring Roll Vermicelli (Kate LOOOOOOOVES Vietnamese Vermicelli – which she says she can have all day, everyday! :P) and the fresh Vietnamese spring roll. While in Vietnam, don’t forget to also try the world-renowned Vietnamese coffee!

Taichung Taiwan

18. The Original Bubble Milk Tea (Chun Shui Tang ζ˜₯ζ°΄ε ‚ )

Chun Shui Tang ζ˜₯ζ°΄ε ‚ The Original Bubble Milk Teao kidding!
Chun Shui Tang ζ˜₯ζ°΄ε ‚ The Original Bubble Milk Tea

Chun Shui Tang ζ˜₯ζ°΄ε ‚ The Original Bubble Milk Tea

17. ε€§θ…ΈεŒ…ε°θ…Έ Direct translation of Big Sausage Wrap Small Sausage (Feng Jia Night Market)

Feng Jia Night Market ε€§θ…ΈεŒ…ε°θ…Έ from Yellow Stall NT40
Feng Jia Night Market ε€§θ…ΈεŒ…ε°θ…Έ from Yellow Stall NT40

ε€§θ…ΈεŒ…ε°θ…Έ (Direct translation of Big Sausage Wrap Small Sausage)

16. Ice cream with AWESOME Toppings (Miyahara 4th Credit)

Ice cream toppings at Miyahara Ice Cream
Ice cream toppings at Miyahara Ice Cream

Miyahara 4th Credit Ice Cream

We start our food conquest in Taiwan (foodie’s paradise!) at Taichung. There is a wide variety of food, great tasting ones at that. But we’ve narrowed it to the Original Bubble tea at Chun Shui Tang ζ˜₯ζ°΄ε ‚ , ε€§θ…ΈεŒ…ε°θ…Έ (Direct translation of Big Sausage Wrap Small Sausage) at Feng Jia Night Market as well as possibly Kate’s favourite ice cream shop at Miyahara 4th Credit. Do check out our post on What to eat at Feng Jia Night Market for our great foods!

Changhua Taiwan

15. The Best Changhua Meatballs (εŒ—ι–€ε£θ‚‰εœ“ Bei Men Kou Meatball)

012bearbear enjoying their first changhua rou yuan
012bearbear enjoying their first changhua rou yuan

εŒ—ι–€ε£θ‚‰εœ“ Changhua Meatball with scallop

We’ve scoured through the top Changhua Meatball stalls and deciphered which is the best Changhua Meatballs in Taiwan. Read our post to find out more!

Tainan Taiwan

14. Breakfast Set (ιΉΏζ—©θŒΆε±‹)

ιΉΏζ—©θŒΆε±‹ Tainan
ιΉΏζ—©θŒΆε±‹ Tainan

Breakfast Set at ιΉΏζ—©θŒΆε±‹

While staying at 1967 Hotel Tainan, we chanced upon ιΉΏζ—©θŒΆε±‹ – a quaint cafe with a lovely breakfast menu. We tried the breakfast set as well as the German sausage waffles. Definitely a great way to start the day!

13. Shrimp Dumpling, Coffin Bread and Oyster Mee Sua (η‘žηθ™Ύδ»ι¦„ι₯¨)

η‘žηθ™Ύδ»ι¦„ι₯¨ Shrimp Dumpling, Coffin Bread and Oyster Mee Sua
η‘žηθ™Ύδ»ι¦„ι₯¨ Shrimp Dumpling, Coffin Bread and Oyster Mee Sua

η‘žηθ™Ύδ»ι¦„ι₯¨ Shrimp Dumpling, Coffin Bread and Oyster Mee Sua

We know…there are 3 foods in this picture and we should really pick one to introduce. But if we really have to choose, we’d pick the shrimp dumpling and the oyster mee sua. The oysters were really fresh and it was the soupy version which differs from the thick broth version that is usually sold in the streets. The shrimp dumplings (what η‘žηθ™Ύδ»ι¦„ι₯¨ is famous for) had really fresh prawns and crispy skin. Once you go at it, you really can’t stop!

Bandung Indonesia

12. Tauhu Telur (Es Teler 77)

Tauhu Telur - especially shiok when freshly fried!
Tauhu Telur – especially shiok when freshly fried!

Tauhu Telur

Bandung Indonesia is a foodies paradise and there are so many yummy food that we would like to introduce here! But if we really had to choose, it would be the Tauhu Telur from Es Teler 77 (a local restaurant chain). Not only is the presentation superb (very pretty isn’t it?), the taste of the tauhu was fresh and the deep fried egg at the top was not the oily sort. Coupled with the sweet and spicy sauce? AWESOME!

Shanghai China

11. Pan Fried Dumplings (Yang’s Fried Dumpling ε°ζ¨η”Ÿη…Ž)

Yang's Fried Dumpling ε°ζ¨η”Ÿη…Ž 4 for 6RMB
Yang’s Fried Dumpling ε°ζ¨η”Ÿη…Ž 4 for 6RMB

Yang’s Fried Dumpling ε°ζ¨η”Ÿη…Ž 4 for 6RMB

Yang’s Fried Dumpling simply wins the battle of pan fried dumplings hands down! Not only is it really economical to dine here – 4 dumplings costs 6RMB (That’s about 30cents each! WHAT?!), the taste was out of this world as well! Don’t be deceived by this innocent dumpling, tread (or chew) carefully…it is SOOOOOOO juicy that it leaves a trail of splatters on the mouths (or in our instance – spectacles) of the diners!

Penang Malaysia

10. Penang Char Hor Fun (Gurney Paragon’s Food Court)

Penang Char Hor Fun
Penang Char Hor Fun

Penang Char Hor Fun

9. Nonya Food (Mama’s Nonya Cuisine)

Mama's Nonya Cuisine
Mama’s Nonya Cuisine

Mama’s Nonya Cuisine

If you have read our post on the “13 Penang Hawker Food and Nonya Restaurants that YOU MUST TRY“, you’d realise that there are so many awesome foods to be tasted in Penang!

If we really had to choose, the Penang Char Hor Fun (from Gurney Paragon’s Food Court) and Tau Yew Bak (braised pork from Mama’s Nonya Cuisine) are definitely not to be missed! Unlike most hor fun these days, the version from Gurney Paragon is made from scratch! The chef fries the hor fun and the sauce on the spot and marries them intricately together, topped off with the “silky egg”. The result? A taste of hor fun from days past to be remembered!

If you only had time (and $$) for one dish at Mama’s, go for the tau yew bak. The sauce is slightly sweetened with the fattiness of the pork belly…ah… Plain ol’ white rice goes best with this dish. Enjoy!

Ipoh Malaysia

8. Snow Beer (Kafe Sun Yoon Wah)

A bottle of snow beer at 14RM - Kafe Sun Yoon Wah Ipoh
A bottle of snow beer at 14RM – Kafe Sun Yoon Wah Ipoh

Snow Beer

7. Beansprouts with chicken and hor fun (Restoran Ong Kee Tauge Ayam)

Restoran Ong Kee Ipoh - fresh firm chicken splashed with soy sauce and sesame oil
Restoran Ong Kee Ipoh – fresh firm chicken splashed with soy sauce and sesame oil

Fresh firm chicken splashed with soy sauce and sesame oil

Restoran Ong Kee Ipoh - Fat Beansprouts
Restoran Ong Kee Ipoh – Fat Beansprouts

REALLY FAT beansprouts

Restoran Ong Kee Ipoh - Go for the Horfun and mix i the chicken and beansprouts!
Restoran Ong Kee Ipoh – Go for the Horfun and mix i the chicken and beansprouts!

Ipoh Hor Fun (before mixing it all in)

Still on Malaysia and yet another foodie’s paradise – Ipoh. In Ipoh, there are 2 things that you must try, Ipoh Hor Fun (so cliche!) and the snow beer

Snow beer? What is that?

It is actually bottles of beers that have been partially frozen that when they are poured into the frost mugs, snow like froths start to form. This gives “ice cold beer” a profoundly different meaning! Tastes great too. The only catch is that you have to drink it fast. Otherwise, it will just return to its fluid form in a really short while.

We know it is cliche, but the Ipoh hor fun at Restoran Ong Kee Tauge Ayam is not to be missed. Mix the aromatic chicken and FAT crunchy beansprouts with the taong hor fun and you’ll get a bowl of unmistakably great Ipoh hor fun!

Pattaya Thailand

6. Mango Sticky Rice (Supermarket of Central Festival)

Best mango sticky rice at only 80 baht! Look inside the supermarket of Central Festival downstairs
Best mango sticky rice at only 80 baht! Look inside the supermarket of Central Festival downstairs

Mango Sticky Rice

The key to a great mango sticky rice is of course the mango. It has to be slightly overripe. That’s where it is at its sweetest and most fragrant. The sticky rice has to be sticky yet retaining the form of the individual grains. The version at Central Festival has got all these bases covered…probably one of the best mango sticky rice we’ve had!

Vancouver USA

5. Baby Back Ribs (Beaches Restaurant)

Baby Back Rib of Beaches Restaurant and Bar (20.99USD)
Baby Back Rib of Beaches Restaurant and Bar (20.99USD)

Baby Back Ribs

Having the baby back ribs at Beaches Restaurant (Vancouver USA) is a one of a kind experience. The meat is so tender that it falls right of the bones, literally! It also exudes that smoky barbecued taste with the slight charred and caramelised outer layer that makes it so irresistibly good!

Seattle USA

4. Chocolate Lava Cake (Metropolitan Grill)

Chocolate Lava Cake at Metropolitan Grill for 12USD
Chocolate Lava Cake at Metropolitan Grill for 12USD

Chocolate Lava Cake

It is certainly strange to introduce a dessert from a famous steak joint such as Metropolitan Grill. But the truth is that the Chocolate Lava Cake was probably one of the best dessert we’ve ever tasted! There are so many textures to it…crumbly, chewy, oozy and rich. Simply divine this…

3. Sea Feast (The Crabpot)

Our order of the Westport sea feast at the Crab Pot Seattle
Our order of the Westport sea feast at the Crab Pot Seattle

Westport sea feast

The Crabpot is one of the originators of the sea feast (or seafood feast) and it has made this list because of its novelty factor. Armed with a wooden mallet, visitors “have a go at it” with your bare hands and have a great time feasting on the seafood pot of clams, crabs, shrimp, mussels, corn and red potatoes.

They have made dining fun again!

San Francisco USA

2. Dungeness Crab (Fisherman’s Wharf)

Dungeness Crab roasted in garlic and olive oil (Fisherman's Grotto San Francisco Fisherman's Wharf)
Dungeness Crab roasted in garlic and olive oil (Fisherman’s Grotto San Francisco Fisherman’s Wharf)

Dungeness Crab roasted in garlic and olive oil

We have actually not tried dungeness crabs until we visited the Fisherman’s Wharf of San Francisco. On the outside, the dungeness crab didn’t really look really appealing. Small pincers, “scrawny legs”. I mean, where is the crab meat?

But when we first tasted the dungeness crab, we understood why. Firstly, as it was in-season, the catch was really fresh. But the thing that made it stood out was its sweet sweet taste. This made the crab really easy to prepare. As long as its fresh, lightly steamed (or in our case lightly tossed) crab would taste great.

Now we understand why locals enjoy their dungeness crabs eventhough it seems that the meat seems few and far in between (the legs and pincers). A small portion satisfies πŸ˜›

1. Risotto Funghi (Fior d’Italia)

Risotto Funghi at Fior d'Italia - Confirm the best Risotto ever tasted (16USD)
Risotto Funghi at Fior d’Italia – Confirm the best Risotto ever tasted (16USD)

Risotto Funghi at Fior d’Italia

Fior d’Italia is America’s oldest Italian restaurant, located at the ground level of San Remo Hotel. We thought to ourselves that there must be a reason why it is still around after such a long time (since 1886!).

We found out for ourselves that the taste was simple, unadulterated good food. Both the risotto and spaghetti had the authentic italian flavours. Fresh Italian pleasures at its finest.

If you’re visiting San Francisco, do drop by Fior d’Italia. You’ll enjoy the experience too!

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We hope that you have enjoyed our coverage of the top 20 foods from our 2014 travels!

Let us know what you think in our comments section below. Bon appetit and happy travels in 2015 everyone!

Tom,
2bearbear.com

Your Guide to Things to do in Yangon Myanmar!

Things to do in Yangon Myanmar

There are actually many things to do in Yangon Myanmar. Many things to eat as well. In this post, we’ll reveal all you need to know as you visit this country (and city) that has recently opened up and invites the world to visit…

Things to do in Yangon Myanmar


Things to eat in Yangon Myanmar

1. Sharky’s Restaurant
(117 Dhamazedi Road, Kamaryut Township, Yangon)

According to the owner of Sharky’s, they started out with earnings of only $3,500 USD ten years ago (which is actually ALOT in Myanmar). Today, they earn that amount in half a day! Sharky’s serves up a western infused menu of pizzas, pastas, burgers and even foie gras. The cool thing about this restaurant is that the owner insists on using the freshest ingredients from Myanmar. Talk about supporting local products!

While you’re there, round off your meal with the pistachio cranberry ice cream. It was one of the best ice creams we’ve ever tasted! Perfect combination of the creamy rich taste of pistachio with the refreshing taste of cranberry…who would have thought?

Sharky’s prosciutto thin crust pizza – 8000 myanmar kyat ($10.50 sgd)

2. Feel Restaurant
(124, Pyihtaungsu Avenue Street, Dagon Tsp, Yangon)

For a taste of Myanmese food, you MUST visit Feel Restaurant. At the restaurant, all you have to do is find a seat and approach the food counter to pick your dishes. The food counter is where all the food are on display and you just pick what you would like to eat. These dishes are then served with fragrant myanmese rice and ngapi – a fermented fish or shrimp paste that goes well with the rice and dishes.

You’ll also realise that the dishes are usually a little on the oily side. This actually signifies wealth in the Burmese culture. Do try the braised pork belly! “Melts-in-your-mouth” good! The dishes were so good that we had 4 portions of rice. 4 portions! Did we also mention that the rice is “free-flow”? ;P

Feel Restaurant Yangon

3. Sakura Tower – The Thiripyitsaya Sky Bistro
(339 Bo Gyoke Rd, Dagon – Sakura Tower, 20th storey)

On the 20th floor of the the Sakura Tower in Yangon, you’ll find The Thiripyitsaya Sky Bistro. The best thing about eating at The Thiripyitsaya Sky Bistro is the amazing views it offers over the whole of Yangon city. These includes views of the Yangon River, Sule and Shwedagon Pagoda as well as the city itself.

Plus, there’s happy hours from 5pm to 7pm where drinks are one-for-one!

Tip: Be there at about 5pm to enjoy the drinks and views while the sun is still up. After the sky starts to darken (from 630pm onwards), there aren’t much views except for the Pagodas.

The Thiripyitsaya Sky Bistro – Sakura Tower

4. Monsoon Restaurant & Bar Yangon
(85-87 Thein Phyu Rd, Yangon)

Monsoon Restaurant serves up a wide variety of cuisine from Myanmar, Laos, Cambodia, Vietnam and Thailand. In addition, you can also “large portions” for western food as well. Happy hours are from 5pm to 7pm!

5. Shwe Pu Zun Cafeteria and Bakery House
(No.246,248, Anawrahta Road, Lanmadaw Township, Yangon / No.14-A, Minnandar Road, Dawbon Township, Yangon)

Shwe Pu Zun is definitely one of the “must-go” places for desserts in Yangon. It’s specialty includes cakes and desserts. The Fa Lu Da (a cross between vanilla ice cream, bandung and cendol) is a “must-try” at Shwe Pu Zun. Did we also mention hyper-speed wifi internet access here?

Shwe Pu Zun Cafeteria and Bakery House Yangon

6. Western Park Ruby Restaurant
(Near ThaKhinMya Park, in front of Myanmar Industrial Port, Strand Road, Ahlone Township, Yangon)

Craving for some Chinese fare? Head to Western Park Ruby Restaurant and try out the seafood as well as its famous Peking Duck! The “2-styled” fish which we tried was awesome as well. Braised and fried fish on a platter with intricate finish to touch!

“2-styled” fish at Western Park Ruby Restaurant Yangon

Attractions in Yangon Myanmar

There are many attractions in Yangon (the land of Pagodas) and here are our top picks…

1. Shwedagon and Sule Pagoda.
(Dagon, Yangon – So prominent that you cant miss it!)

Located in the city centre of Yangon, the Shwedagon (biggest Pagoda facility) and Sule Pagoda are the most prominent pagodas in Yangon.

2. Kyaiktiyo Pagoda aka Golden Rock
(Thaton District, Myanmar)

The Kyaiktiyo Pagoda is a 4 hours ride from Yangon and is also one of the main attractions in Yangon. The interesting thing about this attractions is that the pagoda sits atop a rock which perches precariously over a hill at Mount Kyaiktiyo…

Kyaiktiyo Pagoda (Golden Rock) Myanmar

3. Bogyoke Market Yangon Myanmar
(Bo Gyoke Rd, Yangon)

One of the major markets in Yangon, Bogyoke (pronounced as “Bo” “Joke”) Market is one of the biggest tourist attraction in Yangon. There are shops selling all kinds of products from souvenirs to gold and jade. The jade stalls here are known to fleece tourists. Hence, as a rule of thumb, take away 50% from the quoted price and you should be halfway there to a good price πŸ˜‰

Bogyoke Market Yangon Myanmar

There are many other things to do in Yangon as well as many other great places to dine at as well. Other attractions include the Kandawgyi Lake, Taukkyan War Cemetery, Yangon Zoological Gardens, National Museum of Myanmar as well as the Bogyoke Aung San Museum.

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We hope you have enjoyed our coverage of the things to do in Yangon. Do let us (and our readers) know if you have other great places and eateries to recommend in our comments section below!

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