The TL house : Hidden Gem in Bukit Birut, Kedah

Looking for a unique dining experience in Bukit Birut, Sungai Petani Kedah? Look no further than The TL House, a newly opened restaurant that will captivate your senses with its exquisite decor and breathtaking surroundings. Nestled amidst lush green rice fields and surrounded by majestic mountains, this place is a haven for nature lovers and a perfect spot to capture stunning sunset moments.

As you step inside the restaurant, you'll be enchanted by its enchanting landscape featuring artificial hills, cascading waterfalls, and serene koi ponds—a real treat for children and adults alike. To reach this hidden gem, simply follow the directions on Waze or Google Maps until you spot the signboard that reads "The TL House." Take a turn onto the small road opposite the junction, and as you ascend the mountainous path, the restaurant will reveal itself atop the hill.

 

The TL House not only offers a visual feast but also delights your taste buds. The friendly and attentive staff ensures a pleasant dining experience, although the dishes might take a little longer to arrive due to the restaurant's popularity among locals. To keep you refreshed while you wait, the thoughtful owners provide complimentary chilled water. During the wait, you can immerse yourself in the surrounding beauty without having to climb to the mountaintop.

When it comes to the menu, The TL House caters to a variety of palates, offering Malay, Western, and Thai cuisines. What's more, the prices are incredibly reasonable, making it a great value for the fantastic ambiance. Don't miss their signature dish, the aromatic Nasi Goreng Biasa, priced at just RM6.90—it's a true culinary delight that exceeds expectations.

So, why wait? Make your way to The TL House for a memorable dining experience. This hidden gem is not just a one-time photo opportunity but a restaurant that will entice you to return time and time again.

Bukit Merah Water Park

Bukit Merah Water Park in Perak, Malaysia holds a special place in my heart as it evokes nostalgic memories from my childhood. As the only water park in the Northern region of Malaysia, it provided endless fun and excitement during those carefree days. Although revisiting the park as an adult revealed its smaller size, the enchantment remained intact, reminding me of the joys of experiencing the world through a child's eyes. In this blog post, let's delve into the wonders of Bukit Merah Water Park and why it continues to be an excellent destination for families and children.

1. The Majestic Water Park of Yesteryears: Bukit Merah Water Park stood tall as a behemoth in my younger days, captivating my imagination with its vast expanse. The memories of running through the gates, eagerly anticipating the adventures that awaited, are etched in my mind. While the park may appear smaller now, it is a testament to the incredible transformation of perspective from a child's viewpoint to that of an adult.
2. The Thrilling Big Jump Water Balloon: One of the highlights of Bukit Merah Water Park was undoubtedly the exhilarating Big Jump Water Balloon. This attraction provided the perfect mix of heart-pounding anticipation and refreshing splash. Climbing to the top and summoning the courage to leap into the air, the feeling of weightlessness before plunging into the cool water was an absolute thrill.
3. Exciting Water Slides: Bukit Merah Water Park offered an array of water slides that catered to all levels of adventure seekers. Whether it was the twisting turns of the speedy slides or the gentle slopes for the less daring, the slides provided endless entertainment and splashes of excitement. As a child, these slides were the embodiment of pure joy and laughter.
4. The Enchanting Sea Wave Pool: A favorite among kids, the Sea Wave Pool created the illusion of being in the vast ocean. As the waves crashed against the shoreline, children would frolic and embrace the waves with sheer delight. The sea wave pool was not only a refreshing escape from the tropical heat but also a place where imaginations ran wild, creating memories that would last a lifetime.
5. A Haven for Family Fun: Even with its reduced size, Bukit Merah Water Park continues to be a fantastic destination for families seeking quality time together. The park offers a safe and enjoyable environment for children to hang out, play, and create unforgettable moments. Parents can relax knowing that their kids are immersed in a world of water-based adventures while making memories that will be cherished for years to come.
   

Conclusion:

Bukit Merah Water Park in Perak, Malaysia may have undergone changes over the years, but its ability to capture the spirit of childhood wonder remains unaltered. Despite its smaller size when revisited as an adult, the park's offerings, including the thrilling Big Jump Water Balloon, the array of water slides, and the enchanting Sea Wave Pool, continue to provide ample entertainment and joy. As a place where cherished memories are made, Bukit Merah Water Park stands as a testament to the enduring magic of childhood, and a wonderful destination for families to create their own adventures.

It's time to go home

There are many people start asking me on the procedure to go back Malaysia from Singapore.

With the updated regulation on a day to day basis, actually go home is getting more and more easier. Hope everyone can go home very soon. You miss your family member and they miss you too. 

First please check on the latest update in both countries. 

Malaysia : Frequently asked question summary

Singapore : https://safetravel.ica.gov.sg/

Back home is getting simpler. Things required

1. Apply stay home quarantine in Malaysia (7-10days before departure)  https://hso.moh.gov.my/outbreak-portal-hqa/index

2. PCR test within 48hours of departure.

3. Download MySejahtera apps and declare your vaccination status in MySejahtera here

After arriving in Malaysia. 

Immigration will do another PCR test and you can proceed to quarantine after tested negative. it is only a 7 days quarantine (as of 1/11/2021)

~ That's it ~ 

Procedure when you come back to Singapore. 

check the latest update HERE

Singapore PR - No any application is needed (stay home quarantine 10 days) 

Work Pass holder : Get your employer to apply Periodic Commuting Approval 

Things required :

1. Pre-Departure COVID-19 Polymerase Chain Reaction Test (PDT)

2. Download Trace Together App 

3. Install Whatapps as the MOH office will do a video check randomly

4. Submission of Health Declaration at HERE

Hope this help. It's time go home and stay safe.

Travel to Malaysia (Penang) during FMCO

Many of us miss our hometown so badly but the hater Covid-19 is still fiercely attacking the world badly. Pray hardly for this to end soooon

June 10, 2021, after 1.5 year, I am back to Penang again due to unforeseen circumstance. 

Requirement for travelling for a PR. 

- Swab test ( within 3 days of travelling time ). Swab test result will be available on the next day, so you can book flight on day after tomorrow. 

- Download MySejahtera App (something like trace together app in Singapore)

- Valid passport 

- Valid Flight Ticket

- Health declaration ( form to get from airport )

** due to frequent changing of the regulation, safest way is to call airline customer service to clarify the requirement. Scoot is the only flight available, I called them to double confirm the requirement at +65-31384047. 

Website to refer

International travel : https://www.iatatravelcentre.com/world.php

Malaysia Foreign Affair : https://www.kln.gov.my/web/chl_santiago/news-from-mission/-/blogs/updates-guidelines-on-entry-to-and-quarantine-process-in-malaysia-effective-1-may-2021

Reach Penang 

i) Officer will arrange swab test in airport RM 60 (cash or card accepted ) 

ii) After swab test result, all travelers will be escorted to quarantine hotel (Bahang Bay Hotel or Rainbow Paradise Hotel 

iii) Pay RM2,100 in hotel (cash or card or online payment) 

- The online payment can be made online either through the MySafeTravel System accessible on https://safetravel.myeg.com.my/ or the MyQR phone app;

iv) Hotel personnel will arrange check in 

** bring some snack, as the process might take until afternoon 

During quarantine 

i) 3 meals (breakfast, lunch, dinner) will be provided 

ii) Any delivery items can only be allowed at (2pm to 4pm) everyday once. 

iii) Day 10th or 12th will have second swab test 

I have my quarantine in Rainbow Paradise, I would like to compliment the service of staffs provided. And do enjoy nice sea view from the Hotel. It was a truly pleasant stay. Kudos to the KKM teams and hotel.  

After quarantine 

i) Family member is not allowed to pick up due to MCO ( only can call grab ) 

i) Request a police letter to cross district

Feel free to comment for any queries. It's really not easy to be away from home for so long period. Do stay safe :)

 

Tamago-EN (Northpoint City)

I would like to compliment a lady service staff who is very friendly and proactive. The main is honestly quite disappointing, I couldn't describe what is the black sauce. Dessert is still okay. I like the heavy chocolate fragrance of the chocolate brownie but the it is Abit hard, it will be better if the brownies softer. Spaghetti I will rate 3 out of 5 The chicken stew rice is really sorry. I saw alot good comment but I will say strictly don't try.

Tamago-En Brownie - 👌

Berry souffle pancake - 👍

Prawn & Bacon Mentai Pasta - 👌

Chicken stew with omelette 😞

Qiji Northpoint

Qiji is finally brand new opening in Northpoint City now.

I like their popiah so much, by tasting the  different layers of crunch which were packed into this tiny roll from the thin skin, mixed vegetable and prawns. This cost S$2.30

The nasi lemak chili is first taste sweet and the spicyness come after. There are difference set of available some served with chicken wing , rendang. 

It's quite worth where this set cost S$4.60 in a comfortably environment..

Lontong, not recommending. 

Their curry chicken rice is good too. Like the fragrance curry soup.

1 Northpoint Drive #B1-154, South wing Singapore 768019

Common Chefs Bistro

A good cafe in North that can surprise with you with the well served meal. 

All day CC breakfast

butter toast which bake extremely right, and a juicy meaty bacon which is not too salty. 

The black pepper mushroom taste well too. I would say this all day breakfast price S$13 is really worthy.

Taters tots with egg and bacon plus Parmesan cheese. 

cafe latte

Rich mouthfeel, great body and rich taste. I really like the latte. 

good ambient with good food. Definitely a good place for to fill up the holiday tummy. 

Place

Opposite sembawang white mihun

8 Jln Legundi, #01-13, Singapore 759274

Joo Siah Bak Kut Teh

The famous food chanel recommended this Bak Kut Teh and I make a trip down to try today. Well, the peppery soup isn't too heavy and you can refill. 

Don't feel disappointing when The signature long pork ribs is sold out, as the normal pork ribs is fresh and chewy to satisfy your stomach too.  

Must eat : Pork Rib Soup

Pork leg and the tao kee is normal. I prefer softer pork leg. 

Mee sua not bad. 

It's quite crowded and long queue, but it worth. And most of the tables also eat the Bak Kut Teh.

Venue : 

01-1215 Jurong East Ave 1, Block 349, Singapore 600349

Attracted by: 

Food King Singapore channel

#Jurong East Must Eat

#Bak Kut Teh

Loof

A comfortably chilling place in city hall. 

We have a random pop up to this roof top bar - the loof. It's better to do reservation during Friday night or weekend.

The house wine is smooth and shall grab it during happy hours. 

Korean fried fries

Must try. The sauce is sweet sour and honey feel..

Crispy chicken satay 

You wouldn't expect the chicken Satay is so delicious by looking at the crispy fried chicken stick. It is a marinated chicken Satay. Highly recommended 

BLT fried rice

Not recommend. Tomato Fried rice full with onion. Order this unless you superb like ketchup and onion. 

House wine 

Smooth :)

Reservation and full menu

https://www.loof.com.sg/loof-reservation

Prata Wala

One of the Great Prata selection in Northpoint City

The Prata is crispy and you wouldn't want to miss out the Teh Tarik too

2 Free Plain Pratas from Prata Wala upon Membership Sign Up

National days deal 

Get your and Plus exclusive National Day e-voucher from Prata Wala

Deals :  

1.  2 free plain Prata
2.  Complimentary e-Vouchers up to S$35 dollar
3. 10% Rebate$ for every transaction (Rebate$ can be used to offset bill)

How ?

Sign up for free membership here
https://membership.firstgourmet.com/en/

Venue : Prata Wala outlets in Jurong Point, Tampines Mall, Northpoint City and NEX.

I get mine

6D5N Boracay - Day 4 & 5 & 6 ~ Island hopping, Crystal Cove, Cliff Diving

Boracay Part 1 | Part 2 |

Boracay is one of the most popular tourism islands in the Philippines. The low season is from June to October when the sea is wavy and the weather is rainy. Besides the this period, the rest of the year is basically high season. 

The beach is very very long and is separated into 3 section 1, 2, & 3. Where section 2 is the most happening part of the beach. The island is very commercialized and majority of the tourists are Koreans and Chineses from China and handful of westerners. 

Generally the cost on the island is considered moderate depends on where you are from. But knowing how to bargain with the Philippines will certainly make your budget looser.

Activities 
We booked a tour guide earlier before departing. I don't recommend my tour guide, but we met another guy,  Domino which is highly recommended.

Accommodation
i) Boracay Holiday Resort for the first 4 nights
ii) Cohiba Villas at the last night. 

Below is a summary of the itinerary of a pretty leisure and relaxing 6-day trip of my friends and I on the Island:

Day 1 – Travelling and checking in

Day 2 – Zip line, Cable car, Fly Fish, Sun Set Sailing

Day 3 – Fun diving

Day 4 - Islands hopping, snorkeling, Crystal Cove (sight seeing)

Day 5 – Cliff diving in Magic Island, shopping, massage

Day 6 – Travelling back


Day 4 - Islands hopping, snorkeling, Crystal Cove (sight seeing)


The island hopping including the hopping for a few islands, and which should include the cliff diving too. However, due to strong wave, we couldn't dive for today. But since cliff diving is a must in boracay trip we rent a boat on the next day for the cliff diving.

Then the island hopping is just a typical ordinary visit to 3 islands. Stop by and have your own activities. We did some photoshooting and the guys play football with the local.



Crystal Cove.




This is our villas. - Cohiba Villa


A lot of sailing boat going to view sun set.



The sand castle is another special feature in Boracay. The children there all have the skill in making sand castle and you can ask them to cast your name, and just pay them some tips.

Basketball is a very famous sports in Philippine, you can see basketball field every where. And even this basketball game is very popular and it attracts the attention of both tourist and local too.

Day 6 ~ Travelling
Woke up early morning and took shuttle to D'mall. *No breakfast is provided for our villa.
We have a final shopping in D'mall and It's another torturing journey for travelling back. Good bye to the pretty beach. 

1515 - 1900 : AK608 | KLO - KUL |
2200 - 2250 : AK 6120 | KUL - PEN |

Journey  : Cohiba Villa – D'mall - Boracay Jetty - Kalibo Jetty – Airport

Transport & Time taken : Van (2.5hours) - Ferry (20mins) - Tuk Tuk (15 mins)

Fare : 1200 peso (Round trip including the travelling on last day, we hire the tour guide to arrange for us)

6D5N Boracay - Day 1 & 2 & 3 ~ Zipline & Flying Fish |Part 1|

Boracay Part 1 | 

Boracay is one of the most popular tourism islands in the Philippines. The low season is from June to October when the sea is wavy and the weather is rainy. Besides the this period, the rest of the year is basically high season. 

The beach is very very long and is separated into 3 section 1, 2, & 3. Where section 2 is the most happening part of the beach. The island is very commercialized and majority of the tourists are Koreans and Chineses from China and handful of westerners. 

Generally the cost on the island is considered moderate depends on where you are from. But knowing how to bargain with the Philippines will certainly make your budget looser.

Activities 
We booked a tour guide earlier before departing. I don't recommend my tour guide, but we met another guy,  Domino which is highly recommended.

Accommodation
i) Boracay Holiday Resort for the first 4 nights
ii) Cohiba Villas at the last night. 

Below is a summary of the itinerary of a pretty leisure and relaxing 6-day trip of my friends and I on the Island:

Day 1 – Travelling and checking in

Day 2 – Zip line, Cable car, Fly Fish, Sun Set Sailing

Day 3 – Fun diving

Day 4 - Islands hopping, snorkeling, Crystal Cove (sight seeing)

Day 5 – Cliff diving in Magic Island, shopping, massage

Day 6 – Travelling back

Day 1 ~ Travelling :( 

It's a kinda torturing journey.

0710-0810 : AK 6123 | PEN - KUL |

1050-1445 : AK608 | KUL - KLO |

Journey  : Airport – Kalibo Jetty – Boracay – Boracay Holiday Resort
Transport & Time taken : Van (2.5hours) - Ferry (20mins) - Tuk Tuk (15 mins)
Fare : 1200 peso (Round trip including the travelling on last day, we hire the tour guide to arrange for us)

The road journey to Jetty is narrow and not so bumpy but our driver is crazy, it was like a scary ride for me. However, we get relaxing after seeing the clear water on the jetty. We start to looking forward to the beach. After reaching the hotel, which is very near to the beach, we start a short wandering & Vodka along the beach.

The Ferry

Some local art painting on the Shirt

Day 2 ~ Zip Line, Cable car, Fly Fish, Sun Set Sailing

Zip line & Cable Car

It is actually something like flying fox where we are hung on roller and slide over a vast greenery to a distant hill on a very long cable. The view on the deck is stunning. 

It is the view of the bay on the other side of the island. The Zip line takes around 45 seconds only, it is not scary but it feels like soaring high in the sky.

Then we need to take a very simple cable right beside the cable of the zip line to get back to the deck we come from. It is slow, so that you can enjoy the stunning view and the exciting people on the zipline.

Flying Fish

One special thing about Boracay I think is most of the water sports are carried out in the middle of the sea. Yes, we take a boat trip to the middle of the sea to have our flying fish. It is something like a banana boat and but it is much more fast and fun. 

Does this look like flying fish ???

Loose the hand and jump to the sea in the last round :)

Day 3 – Fun diving

You don’t need a diving licence for a fun dive here. We have a brief session on some basic gesture and usage of the gears, and a brief hands on session in the shallow and after that on for a 10 meter fun dive. 

Don’t worry for there is a professional diver to guide every pair of participants and it is totally safe because we are not going to the deep.  

*There is not much beautiful coral of marine fishes in the fun dive site but the experience of diving is great and memorizing for most of us are beginners.

Can see many nemo

The fishes attacking us. 

* when you feed the fishes with bread. If you hand is standstill at the same position they will thought it is their food, and you will be bitten too. 

*Some photo on beach*