http://www.lechuaphotography.com Mon, 06 Sep 2010 15:26:59 +0000 http://backend.userland.com/rss092 en Here we have Manraj turning one year old. It was a party with endless activities from sand art to tattoo painting, music games, magic performances, as well as the appearance of special guest Barney. The kids (and the adults too) surely had a blast with the entertainment. Thanks to Manraj’s mum for allowing me to cover this fun-filled event. [...]]]> http://www.lechuaphotography.com/2010/09/06/manrajs-1st-birthday-bash/ Meet Yi Shyuan who just turned one year old recently. Her mum having come across my photoblog, contacted me for a portrait session of her little daughter and I was more than happy to be given the opportunity. We spent the morning at a nearby playground. Her brothers also came along so managed to catch a few [...]]]> http://www.lechuaphotography.com/2010/08/18/yi-shyuan-portrait-session/ It was a splashing time for Ilyza and her friends as they celebrated her 6th birthday with a Hawaiian themed pool party! It was a great party to capture, where the kids sure had loads of fun all dressed up in hula outfits let the games begin! bursting the balloon!  steady… steady… water balloon tossing!   the mermaid cake Happy Birthday Ilyza! the yummmmiesstt cake another [...]]]> http://www.lechuaphotography.com/2010/08/09/ilyzas-hawaiian-birthday-party/ The unique attraction about Bangkok’s Maeklong Railway Market is the fact that a train literally runs through the market 8 times a day. We made a stop at the Maeklong market on our way to Damnoen Saduak, and it was a fascinating yet bizarre sight watching the market vendors selling their goods laid out on both sides of the [...]]]> http://www.lechuaphotography.com/2010/07/31/maeklong-railway-market/ A very Happy Full Moon to Jayden as he turned a month old last weekend. This little fella was greeted by family and friends during his full moon party. Thanks to Jayden’s mum for having me over to capture moments of this celebration! cozy cot family-get-together ang ku kueh hello Jayden! greeted by new friends rolling… rolling… over *yawn* ]]> http://www.lechuaphotography.com/2010/07/25/jaydens-full-moon/ Last Sunday, I had a portrait session with Kaitlynn. This little girl warmed up pretty quickly and was truly a delight to photograph. I thoroughly enjoyed myself during this session – many thanks to her mum for offering me this opportunity. Here are few of the photos captured. princess in white splash! ready for the climb slow and steady… swinging on [...]]]> http://www.lechuaphotography.com/2010/07/09/kaitlynn-portrait-session/ If you ever visit Chinatown in Bangkok, you will find an abundance of Chinese delicacies especially bird’s nest and shark’s fin soup (those who are strongly against shark’s fin, please skip this post!).  The price of shark’s fin on display ranged from 300 baht to as high as 8000 baht. We took a leisurely stroll [...]]]> http://www.lechuaphotography.com/2010/07/06/chinatown-bangkok/ Wanting to learn more about the different effects that can be created by remote flash, I attended a flash photography workshop at Nikonian Academy. Here are some of the experimental shots taken during the practical session indoors and outdoors (at a construction site!). ]]> http://www.lechuaphotography.com/2010/06/30/flash-photography-model-shoot/ Lauren turns 5 with a splash! Happy Birthday Lauren. Here are some photos from her birthday party filled with fun and games with her friends! the youngest DJ in town                                                 dancing away the stunning musical statue winner! hitting the pinata & out spill the sweets from the pinata! ]]> http://www.lechuaphotography.com/2010/06/22/laurens-5th-birthday-party/ To get to the Wat Phra Kaew and Grand Palace Complex, take the Chao Phraya Express Boat Service heading towards the upstream direction on the right. This public boat can be quite crowded and stops only for a brief moment at each pier for passengers to hop on and off. This proved to be quite [...]]]> http://www.lechuaphotography.com/2010/06/17/tha-chang-wan-luang-pier/ The Grand Palace, a pride of Thailand, is a must-see tourist attraction for anyone visiting Bangkok. Built in 1782 by King Rama I, this 60 acre landmark houses the Temple of the Emerald Buddha (Wat Phra Kaew) and was also home to the royal residence. the classic view of the Grand Palace complex from outside Upon entering the complex, we [...]]]> http://www.lechuaphotography.com/2010/06/09/bangkok-grand-palace/ Eiman has just turned a year old. Many thanks to Eiman’s mum for engaging me to capture moments of her little girl’s birthday party. Here are few of the photos taken from the afternoon. Happy 1st B’day Eiman! little Eiman step by step the kids &… … the grown-ups the 3 expecting sisters the curious boys Eiman devouring her first birthday cake [...]]]> http://www.lechuaphotography.com/2010/05/30/eimans-1st-birthday-party/ The 2nd Putrajaya International Hot Air Balloon Fiesta this year was held over 4 days from 18th-21st March 2010. From 7.45am-8.15am, there was a balloon area opened to photographers. By the time I arrived at 8am, the area was already closed to photographers and many of the interesting hot air balloons had already taken off with hot air [...]]]> http://www.lechuaphotography.com/2010/05/24/putrajaya-hot-air-balloon/ As we come to a close to this first set of Penang series featuring the highlights of this UNESCO heritage city, thought I’d share photos taken from a wedding held at the grounds of a heritage building in Penang, the Leong Yin Khean Mansion at 32 Jalan Sultan Ahmad Shah. Known today as Thirty Two at the Mansion, this [...]]]> http://www.lechuaphotography.com/2010/05/16/a-wedding-at-32-mansion-penang/ Apart from attractions such as its architectural heritage, traditional trades, and famous hawker and street food, Penang is known for its surrounding beaches; thus making it an ideal holiday destination. Batu Ferringhi Beach is the most popular beach in Penang amongst both locals and tourists, and the beach is usually full of activities including water sports, sunbathing or simply sunset watching. ]]> http://www.lechuaphotography.com/2010/05/10/ferringhi-beach-penang/ Beng & Jamie celebrate the one-month old of son Marc with relatives and friends in KL. Happy Full Moon Marc! Here are some of the photos taken from the celebration. Marc makes his debut taking a rest after all the guest greeting “beer for me please?” eyes gluuuued to the screen balloons galore… cupcake craving…   fun at the playground… … & leftover from [...]]]> http://www.lechuaphotography.com/2010/05/05/marcs-full-moon/ As I take a walk along Penang Heritage Trail, apart from taking in the colonial architecture and cultural heritage and practices, I come across stalls selling some of Malaysia’s popular street snacks. Along Kimberley Street, just off Kapitan Keling Road where Chowrasta Market is, there is a stall selling ban chang kueh (also known as apom balik), [...]]]> http://www.lechuaphotography.com/2010/04/30/penang-street-snacks/ The preservation of traditional trades and food of Penang, plays a significant role in keeping the history and culture alive in the UNESCO heritage city of George Town. However, with the emergence of technology and changing times, it has become quite a challenge today to find artisans still practising the skilled craftsmanship from the old [...]]]> http://www.lechuaphotography.com/2010/04/21/penangs-living-heritage/ Chowrasta Market is a famous wet market facing Penang Road, in the centre of George Town. The market has an indoor section with market stalls spilling out onto the streets, mainly, Chowrasta Road, Tamil Lane and Kuala Kangsar Road (see map). Below are some street captures of the outdoor market activities that start to wrap up before [...]]]> http://www.lechuaphotography.com/2010/04/17/chowrasta-market-area/ In the centre of the Penang Heritage Zone is Little India, along Market Street, King Street and Queen Street (click here to see map). The atmosphere surrounding Little India is unique with its traditional music heard along the streets and specialised Indian stores selling beautiful fabric and jewellery, reflecting the Indian culture and lifestyle. There [...]]]> http://www.lechuaphotography.com/2010/04/07/little-india-penang/ The clan jetties of Penang along the Weld Quay (click here to see map) are traditional Chinese fishing settlements and part of Penang’s heritage. Originally, there were eight clan jetties named their respective last names (Chew Jetty, Koay Jetty, Lee Jetty, Lim Jetty, Peng Aun Jetty, Tan Jetty, Yeoh Jetty, Mixed Clans Jetty), with the residents [...]]]> http://www.lechuaphotography.com/2010/03/31/penang-clan-jetties/ As we stroll along the Penang Heritage Trail, it is hard to miss the sight of rows of old double-storey shophouses. The architecture of the shophouses display a combination of the British colonial influence, and the Baba and Nyonya style from the earlier days. Many would say that these shophouses contribute largely to the character [...]]]> http://www.lechuaphotography.com/2010/03/26/windows-of-penang/ George Town, the capital of the state of Penang, is a city that bears a rich history with its well-preserved architecture and cultural traditions. In 2008, George Town, along with Malacca, was recognised by UNESCO as a world heritage city. Take a walk through the Penang Heritage Trail (click here for the map) and experience [...]]]> http://www.lechuaphotography.com/2010/03/21/penang-heritage-trail/ Departure Lounge in Solaris Mont Kiara is a cozy travel-themed cafe serving all day breakfast and specialty sandwiches. It is the perfect place to hang out for a meal while planning your next travel destination.    On Saturday morning, a few of us met up at Departure Lounge for a catchup over breakfast. Apart from the lovely travel [...]]]> http://www.lechuaphotography.com/2010/03/14/departure-lounge-solaris/ Sungai Chiling Waterfall is considered as one of the most beautiful waterfalls in Selangor. Located 55 km from Kuala Lumpur city, near Kuala Kubu Baru, it is a highly recommended waterfall to visit for those looking for a leisurely nature trek to a waterfall within Selangor. With the recent hot weather, a group of us decided [...]]]> http://www.lechuaphotography.com/2010/03/08/chiling-waterfall/ Ryan has turned 1! Some photos from his FIRST birthday celebration with his family. Happy Birthday Ryan! delighted grandads and grandmas ryan with mum and dad the family picture the fan club exhausted… on my 1st birthday ]]> http://www.lechuaphotography.com/2010/03/05/ryan-turns-1/ Chap Goh Meh, in Hokkien, translated as the ‘fifteenth night’ marks the last day of the 15-day Chinese New Year festival. It is also celebrated as the Chinese Valentine’s Day, where young maidens practise the tradition (supposedly originating from Penang), of throwing mandarin oranges into the water in hope that they will be found by their [...]]]> http://www.lechuaphotography.com/2010/03/01/chap-goh-meh-2010/ Gong Xi Fa Cai! The past week has been a series of  gatherings and reunions with family and friends. Especially with schools on holiday to celebrate Chinese New Year, this joyous festive period is particularly an enjoyable time for children – with angpows, new year clothing, fireworks, oranges, cookies and plenty of goodies. Here are some of the cheerful faces captured, from open house visiting [...]]]> http://www.lechuaphotography.com/2010/02/22/gong-xi-gong-xi/ On the morning of the 2nd day of Chinese New Year, we decided to pay a visit to Thean Hou Temple to join in the festivity of the new year celebration. Dedicated to the Goddess Thean Hou (the Heavenly Mother), this six-tiered Chinese Buddhist Temple is one of the largest temples in South East Asia. Located [...]]]> http://www.lechuaphotography.com/2010/02/17/thean-hou-temple-cny-2010/ This marks my last post for Siem Reap. Thanks to all who have been following me on this enlightening journey through Cambodia. I hope you have enjoyed it as much as I have enjoyed sharing the stories and photos taken. Here is a closing note and quick overview of some recommended must-see attractions. If anyone’s visiting Siem Reap [...]]]> http://www.lechuaphotography.com/2010/02/13/siem-reap-closing-highlights/ Nearly half the population of Cambodia is of children under the age of 15. In Siem Reap, you are greeted by children everywhere with various expressions. Some faces light up with smiles, some remain shy. At tourist areas like the temples, the older ones surround you, selling drinks, scarfs, guide books and souvenirs. Here is a collection of [...]]]> http://www.lechuaphotography.com/2010/02/11/siem-reap-children-of-cambodia/ A celebration for Razlan turning 40… with close friends and family invited to a dinner party. Here are some of the photos captured from the enjoyable evening below. the dinner table all laid out servings of olive oil with vinegar being prepared drinks anyone? starting off with appetizers organizer a.k.a hostess for the night guests mingling before dinner & who do we [...]]]> http://www.lechuaphotography.com/2010/02/07/razlans-birthday-dinner/ Head to Pub Street in the Old Market area, for a taste of nightlife in Siem Reap. A street packed with restaurants and bars, you may find practically all you need along and around this street, from street food, to pharmacies, to massage parlours to souvenir shops and so on. Although busiest at night, it is [...]]]> http://www.lechuaphotography.com/2010/02/05/siem-reap-pub-street/ Whilst exploring the streets of Siem Reap, we come across a range of interesting and exotic snacks offered by street vendors, the most exotic I find, being the fried insects. take your pick - grasshoppers, crickets large and small, & beetles! a tin can of these crickets cost about USD0.50 and they are popular as snacks amongst the locals; our [...]]]> http://www.lechuaphotography.com/2010/01/30/siem-reap-street-food/ Artisans d’Angkor, located on Stung Thmey Street near the Old Market, provides an insight to the amazing skilled craftsmanship of Cambodian traditional handicrafts. Originally established as an association by Chantiers-Ecoles, Artisans d’Angkor has grown to be a self-financed company today, having trained young Cambodians in recreating the arts of their cultural heritage and at the [...]]]> http://www.lechuaphotography.com/2010/01/28/siem-reap-%e2%80%93-artisans-d%e2%80%99angkor/ On our way back from Kompong Khleang, we make a stop at Damdek market, located in the small town of Damdek, 40km east of Siem Reap town. Unlike the old market in the centre of Siem Reap town, Damdek market is truly a local market where tourists can hardly be spotted and groceries are known to be cheaper. variety [...]]]> http://www.lechuaphotography.com/2010/01/26/siem-reap-damdek-market/ Kompong Khleang is one of the largest Tonle Sap communities with over 20,000 people. Located about 45km south east of Siem Reap town, pass Damdek town, this village is less visited by tourists and thus offers a more traditional insight to Cambodian village life by the lake as compared with Chong Khneas. Kompong Khleang We take a half-day [...]]]> http://www.lechuaphotography.com/2010/01/22/siem-reap-kompong-khleang/ With the temples closed by late evening, a great way to spend the night is to go into Siem Reap town and visit the two night markets, Angkor Night Market and Noon Night Market, conveniently located a few streets away from the Old Market (open in the day) and the lively Pub Street. Both night markets [...]]]> http://www.lechuaphotography.com/2010/01/21/siem-reap-night-market/ The Old Market (also known as Psar Char) of Siem Reap is open from the early hours to sunset, and is made up of both a wet and dry section. The wet market offers daily supplies of vegetable, fish and meat to locals, although it is said that goods are pricier here than other local markets [...]]]> http://www.lechuaphotography.com/2010/01/19/siem-reap-old-market/ Banteay Srei meaning ‘ Citadel of Women’ is best known for its intricate carvings and is truly a temple displaying Khmer art at its finest. Situated 30km north of Siem Reap town (18km from Kbal Spean), this fairly small temple of pink sandstone is usually entered via the east entrance and there is a causeway [...]]]> http://www.lechuaphotography.com/2010/01/17/siem-reap-banteay-srei/ From Roluos Group, we continue on our full-day Outlying Adventure Tour to Kbal Spean. Kbal Spean literally meaning ‘Headwater Bridge’ is named after a natural stone formation resembling a bridge across the Kbal Spean river (a tributary of Siem Reap river that rises from the Kulen Mountain, through Siem Reap and into Tonle Sap lake). [...]]]> http://www.lechuaphotography.com/2010/01/15/siem-reap-kbal-spean/ The Roluos Group lies south east of Angkor Wat and comprises of the three oldest temples during the 600-year Angkorian Period: Preah Ko, Bakong, Lolei. Roluos (known previously as Hariharayala) was established by King Jayavarman II as a capital of Khmer civilization and remained as the capital during the reign of his three successors. The three [...]]]> http://www.lechuaphotography.com/2010/01/13/siem-reap-roluos-group/ Phnom Bakheng, situated 1.7km north-west of Angkor Wat, is the most popular temple for sunset. The temple sits on a hill offering a widespread view overlooking the plains of Angkor and Tonle Sap Lake, and can be reached by either walking up a trail for about 15 mins or riding on an elephant (USD20). flock of tourists gathered [...]]]> http://www.lechuaphotography.com/2010/01/10/siem-reap-phnom-bakheng/ Ta Prohm, also known as the ‘Temple of the Jungle’, differentiates itself from the other Angkor Temples within the small circuit mainly due to the presence of tall silk-cotton and strangler fig trees intertwined amongst the ruins of the temple. A walk through Ta Prohm, with the foliage of the old standing trees creating a unique [...]]]> http://www.lechuaphotography.com/2010/01/09/siem-reap-ta-prohm/ Angkor Thom meaning ‘Great City’ comprises of a group of temples within a walled enclosure surrounded by a moat, and is situated north of Angkor Wat. entrance to Bayon The Bayon, known as the ‘Temple of Beaming Faces’ and the most famous sight within this compound, is located in the centre of Angkor Thom. This three-tiered pyramid [...]]]> http://www.lechuaphotography.com/2010/01/08/siem-reap-angkor-thom/ Angkor Wat is without doubt the symbolic icon of Siem Reap. Literally translated as the ‘Temple City’ (Angkor means ‘City’ and Wat means ‘Temple’), this awe-inspiring monument is located in the middle of the complex of Angkor. With its front entrance facing the west, this grand temple forms an amazing silhouette at sunrise. Enclosed by a [...]]]> http://www.lechuaphotography.com/2010/01/06/siem-reap-angkor-wat/ The vast temple complex of Angkor is one of the most important archaeological sites in South East Asia. It is a pride and treasure of Cambodia and is an immensely popular attraction for tourists from all over the world visiting Siem Reap. Exploring all the temples within the Angkor Archaeological Park could take a week or [...]]]> http://www.lechuaphotography.com/2010/01/05/siem-reap-angkor-temples/ The floating village of Chong Khneas lies at the edge of Tonle Sap lake, the largest freshwater lake in South East Asia. This fishing settlement, situated just 10km south of Siem Reap, is easily accessible and is a must-visit attraction for an insight to the lifestyle of village folks in Cambodia. We take a tuk tuk [...]]]> http://www.lechuaphotography.com/2010/01/04/siem-reap-chong-khneas/ In search of a place to stay for 4 nights in Siem Reap, we decided on Central Boutique Angkor Hotel after reading reviews of the hotel on tripadvisor (ranked in Dec 2009 at #14 out of 139 hotels). The hotel is run by a local Cambodian family who ensured our stay was a pleasant one. Room [...]]]> http://www.lechuaphotography.com/2010/01/02/siem-reap-accommodation/ Photos from Christmas Lunch – a potluck of delicious homemade dishes! the christmas meal laid out on the table quiche, turkey stuffing and appetizing salad with olives the customary roast turkey cous cous food glorious food! serving after serving heating up the brandy in preparation for dessert traditional christmas pudding with brandy look who’s grown… beautiful round eyes havin a good laugh the two princesses ]]> http://www.lechuaphotography.com/2009/12/28/christmas-lunch-2009/ Photobooks created and ordered from Photobook Malaysia arrived in time as Christmas gifts! Review of photobooks: Overall, satisfied with print quality of photos Few photos were printed more to the dark side than preferred Encountered 2-3 day lag for a response on a query on an order Photobooks delivered on time! glossy front cover soft, bendable & magazine-like a different design of a [...]]]> http://www.lechuaphotography.com/2009/12/27/photobook-malaysia-photobook-delivered/ Running out of ideas for gifts? With the many photos taken throughout each year and stored in my laptop, external harddisk, etc, I decided to print a selection of them out in a photobook as gifts this Christmas. Having heard of Photobook Malaysia, I decided to try out their photobook print services. Out of the 3 main bookstyles [...]]]> http://www.lechuaphotography.com/2009/12/27/photobook-malaysia-creating-a-photobook/ A morning out with baby Ryan and his parents, Adrian and Yin Leng. Here are some of the moments captured from the family portrait shoot. bundle of joy swinging with mummy daddy’s li’l champion               teething                                                        taking the first few steps        flying high                                                                        fast asleep          *glum* squished with kisses   watch me go!                 *cheekyyyy face*                                                 all ready to climb up the stairs *chuckles* watch me crawl! ]]> http://www.lechuaphotography.com/2009/12/26/ryan-how-family-portrait/ Photos of moments captured from Kian & Kay Nny’s tea ceremony on the morning of their wedding. Congratulations to the newly weds! the detailed agenda for the gentlemen bridesmaids all geared up the outcome of a loyal ‘hing dai’ the groom in additional ’expressive’ attire looking all radiant the bride and groom joyous moment with relatives the tea ceremony receiving ang pow welcome to the family the glowing bride ]]> http://www.lechuaphotography.com/2009/12/26/kian-kay-nny-wedding-tea-ceremony/ Scenes taken from the London Underground Station… the no smoking sign mind the gap train on the move train departing from the platform the long escalators – stand on the right! art on the underground ]]> http://www.lechuaphotography.com/2009/12/26/london-underground/ South Kensington in London is renowned for being the home of the city’s major institutes of arts and sciences. The history of Exhibition Road, the main road that runs though South Kensington dates back to the year 1851, following the vision of Prince Albert to establish a cultural and educational community. Take the underground to South [...]]]> http://www.lechuaphotography.com/2009/12/25/london-south-kensington/ Between Bayswater and Kensington is the west section of the Hyde Park, also known as Kensington Gardens. It is in these gardens that the Kensington Palace, the London home of Princess Diana, is situated. entrance of Kensington Palace A leisurely stroll on a wet autumn’s day through the park during this visit, reminds me of college days, [...]]]> http://www.lechuaphotography.com/2009/12/24/london-hyde-park/ The abundance of Chinese restaurants, as well as Malaysian, Indian, Thai, Middle Eastern food widely available in Bayswater area, especially Queensway, has made this area widely popular for those seeking a taste of asian cuisine. Revisiting Bayswater after 6 years, brings back fond memories of life as a student in London. It was good to [...]]]> http://www.lechuaphotography.com/2009/12/23/london-bayswater/ Welcome to Oxford Circus, the city’s shopping paradise. Oxford Street (running east to west) and Regent Street (north to south) are extremely popular amongst Londoners and tourists for their high street shops. Flagship stores of famous fashion brands such as Topshop, Next, River Island, M&S, Nike, Zara and many more, are just around the corner.   arriving [...]]]> http://www.lechuaphotography.com/2009/12/19/london-oxford-circus/ The Tower Bridge has become an iconic sight and a famous tourist attraction of London. Built over the River Thames, this bascule bridge allows ships to pass, and is suspended by two magnificent towers. There is an upper pedestrian walkway and a lower pedestrian walkway and road for vehicles. To get to Tower Bridge, alight at Tower [...]]]> http://www.lechuaphotography.com/2009/12/17/london-tower-bridge/ A walk along South Bank of the River Thames offers one of the most scenic views of London. Major tourist attractions can be found around the Embankment Place area, including the London Eye, Westminster Abbey, Houses of Parliament and the infamous symbolic Big Ben. Arts buildings including the Royal Festival Hall and National Theatre lie [...]]]> http://www.lechuaphotography.com/2009/12/12/london-embankment-south-bank/ One of the things I miss about London is strolling along the lanes of Covent Garden, filled with the lively atmosphere of markets, buskers and urban fashion shops. I could just spend the day window shopping or hanging out by the market whilst being entertained by street performers. Covent Garden tube station trendy shops of Covent Garden    jewellery and arts [...]]]> http://www.lechuaphotography.com/2009/12/04/london-covent-garden/ London’s West End, the heart of the city’s theatres of arts and musicals is a must-visit. Take the Piccadilly line on the underground and get off at either Piccadilly Circus or Leicester Square tube station, and you’ll find yourself right in the middle of London’s busy nightlife. neon lights of Piccadilly Circus Shaftesbury Avenue – an avenue [...]]]> http://www.lechuaphotography.com/2009/12/03/london-west-end/ A sunny morning with nursery at the playground in the park. Here are some of the snapshots taken… behind bars?? the joys of being up and down a see-saw  grabbing on tight to the monkey rings sliding sliding…..downnnnnnn…                                           *cheeky grin* snack time! ]]> http://www.lechuaphotography.com/2009/12/02/picnic-in-the-park/ Accomodation at the 2 places that we stayed at in Sorrento and Naples are to be highly recommended. I always look forward to an inviting place to rest overnight after a tiring day of travel and I was impressed with both these hotels. Both were reasonably priced and exceeded my expectations for a 3-star hotel. Sorrento [...]]]> http://www.lechuaphotography.com/2009/12/01/naples-about-accomodation/ After the many stories (mostly daunting ones) I have heard about Naples, I’m glad that we did make a stop for a day to have a feel of this ‘interesting’ city. Never have I heard as much honking or seen as much graffiti on buildings and monuments in a place. However after spending the day [...]]]> http://www.lechuaphotography.com/2009/11/25/naples-about-naples-city/ Pompeii, a city buried from the eruption of Mt Vesuvius in 79AD, is considered by many as one of the top archaeological sites in the world. The excavation efforts made to uncover 6 metres high of ash and rock have led to the rediscovery and restoration of this ancient city. Pompeii, a UNESCO World Heritage site covers 66 hectares of [...]]]> http://www.lechuaphotography.com/2009/11/23/naples-about-pompeii/ The Amalfi Coast, famed for its beautiful coastline with towns and villages perched on jagged cliffs, attracts tourists from all over. Stretching 50km south of the Sorrentine Peninsula, the towns along the coast are linked by a narrow road with sharp twists and turns. With limited options to travel by bus or boat during the off [...]]]> http://www.lechuaphotography.com/2009/11/22/naples-about-amalfi-coast/ The Sorrento Peninsula lies south of Naples and is an area known for its spectacular natural beauty. Sorrento’s ideal location with steep cliffs hanging over the Bay of Naples and overlooking to Mt. Vesuvius has made it a popular tourist destination in Italy. Sorrento by the blue waters of Naples Bay Sorrento was perfect as a base [...]]]> http://www.lechuaphotography.com/2009/11/19/naples-about-sorrento/ This cozy Belgian eatery tucked away in an alley in Covent Garden still doesn’t fail to fascinate me after several years, with its unique setting and ambience. It is still apparent that this place remains immensely popular amongst Londoners for its mussels and beer. “Beat the Clock!” In spite of not being a huge fan of mussels, [...]]]> http://www.lechuaphotography.com/2009/11/18/belgo-moules-frites-bieres/ Day 4: Cordoba – Mezquita, Jewish Quarter, Calleja de Las Flores  On our last day in Andalucia, we take a day trip to Cordoba, a 45 minute train ride north-east from Seville. The centre of Cordoba city together with its greatest attraction, the Mezquita that is marvelled for its remarkable architecture, is a World Heritage site. The [...]]]> http://www.lechuaphotography.com/2009/11/18/exploring-andalucia-cordoba/ There is quite a difference between Seville the capital of Andalucia, and Granada. The sight of Santa Justa train station itself with its many platforms, shops and extra long elevated elevators illustrates a more developed side of Andalucia as compared to the isolated Granada station. Day 3: Seville – Cathedral & La Giralda, Alcazar, Barrio de [...]]]> http://www.lechuaphotography.com/2009/11/18/exploring-andalucia-seville-2/ Day 2: Granada – the Alhambra Our 2nd day is spent visiting the Alhambra, the large medieval Moorish palace-city, admired for its impressive Islamic architecture. Having pre-booked and purchased tickets online (highly advisable since there is a restricted no. of visitors allowed to enter each day), we hop onto a bus (no. 30 or 32) from Plaza [...]]]> http://www.lechuaphotography.com/2009/11/15/exploring-andalucia-granada-day-2/ Andalucia in the south of Spain is indeed a region rich in history, architecture and culture. The big three World Heritage cities in this region: Granada, Seville and Cordoba are home to Andalucia’s most outstanding medieval Islamic sites. Day 1: Granada – Sacromonte, Albaicin, Cathedral, Plaza Bib-Rambla, Alcaiceria We make a quick stop at the tourist information centre [...]]]> http://www.lechuaphotography.com/2009/11/14/exploring-andalucia-granada-sacromonte-albaicin/ glow-in-the-dark pumpkins the li’l witch          &      the li’l vampire vampire duo in action                                                             big and mini horns li’l princess with red horns cheeky vampire pass the pumpkin! night of funfilled games and laughter “check out my pumpkin tatoo”                                        ”& my wizard hat” hiding high up in the tree ladies with their hallowweeeenn rings exhausted…. ]]> http://www.lechuaphotography.com/2009/11/12/on-halloween-night/ the birthday cake blowing out the candles *puff* pals for life muffin munching *gulp* …. in a mouthful li’l JJ *chuckles* *pout* *adorable cheeks* kisses *muah*… …. & cuddles *squeeze* “i want maaaa muummmyyy” “don’t cry JJ…” JJ pampered by 2 big sisters all smiles and dimples peekabooo riding on the choo-choo train   ]]> http://www.lechuaphotography.com/2009/11/11/aris-turns-5/ Batu Caves is undeniably amongst the top 10 attractions in Kuala Lumpur as quoted in most, if not all travel guide references. The caves are 400 million years old, situated in a natural limestone hill. In the 1800s, the caves became a place of worship for the Hindus, with the largest cave being the Temple [...]]]> http://www.lechuaphotography.com/2009/10/21/batu-caves/ On my first day of ‘freedom’, I set off on a road trip to Malacca. Packed into 6 cars, we made our way to attend a fellow ex-colleague’s wedding in Muar, stopping overnight in Malacca to explore the endless list of food destinations all planned out by the food enthusiasts. In between the many makan [...]]]> http://www.lechuaphotography.com/2009/10/16/road-trip-to-malacca/ http://www.lechuaphotography.com/2009/10/10/a-new-chapter/