China/ Tibet /Shangri-La City: A Journey Through Paradise

Shangri-La City, an enchanting destination nestled in the heart of Yunnan Province, China. Known for its breathtaking landscapes, rich cultural heritage, and mouthwatering cuisine, Shangri-La is a hidden gem waiting to be discovered. Join me on this virtual tour as we uncover the top attractions, savor delicious local dishes, and immerse ourselves in the magical atmosphere of this paradise on earth.

Day 1: Arrival and First Impressions

Morning: Scenic Arrival

Our adventure begins with a flight into Diqing Shangri-La Airport, where the crisp mountain air greets us upon landing. As we make our way to the city, the stunning vistas of snow-capped mountains and lush valleys set the tone for our journey. The first stop is at Songzanlin Monastery, the largest Tibetan Buddhist monastery in Yunnan. Often referred to as the "Little Potala Palace," this architectural marvel offers a glimpse into the spiritual life of the region, with golden rooftops glistening in the sunlight and monks chanting in serene prayer halls.

Afternoon: Exploring Old Town

Next, we head to the old town of Shangri-La, also known as Dukezong Ancient Town. Walking through its narrow cobblestone streets feels like stepping back in time. The traditional Tibetan-style buildings, adorned with prayer flags and intricate wood carvings, create a picturesque setting. Don't miss the chance to climb Guishan Hill and spin the world's largest prayer wheel, believed to bring good fortune to those who turn it.

Evening: Tibetan Feast

As the sun sets, we settle into a cozy Tibetan restaurant to sample some local delicacies. Yak meat stew, butter tea, and momos (Tibetan dumplings) are just a few of the dishes that tantalize our taste buds. The warm hospitality of the locals makes the meal even more memorable, as we share stories and laughter around the table.

Penang's Food Haven / Hamilton Walk Food Court

The Hamilton Food Court in Penang is a popular destination for food lovers. Located near Heng Ee High School, city of George Town, Penang, it offers a wide variety of local delicacies and international cuisines. From traditional Penang street food like char kway teow, laksa, and rojak to Western dishes and desserts, there's something to satisfy every palate.

The Hamilton Walk Food Court in Penang offers a delightful array of cuisines to tantalize your taste buds. Here's a glimpse into the diverse range of food options you can find there:

Nyonya Food: Dive into the rich and flavorful world of Nyonya cuisine, a fusion of Chinese and Malay flavors. Expect dishes like ayam pongteh (chicken stewed in fermented soy bean paste), itik tim (duck soup), and nyonya laksa, which is a spicy coconut milk-based noodle soup.

Vietnamese Food: Experience the fresh and aromatic flavors of Vietnamese cuisine right at the food court. Indulge in classics like pho (noodle soup), banh mi (Vietnamese sandwich), and fresh spring rolls filled with shrimp, herbs, and vermicelli noodles.

Thai Food: Treat yourself to the vibrant and spicy flavors of Thai cuisine. From pad Thai (stir-fried noodles) to green curry chicken, tom yum soup (spicy and sour soup), and mango sticky rice for dessert, there's something to satisfy every Thai food craving.

 

Vitnamese Cuisine/Vietnam street Food

 Vietnamese cuisine is famous for its rich variety, freshness, and healthy characteristics. Vietnamese dishes combine cooking techniques from East Asia and Southeast Asia, while also being influenced by the French colonial period, resulting in a unique and delicious flavor. Here are some famous Vietnamese dishes:

1. Vietnamese Spring Rolls (Chả giò): Vietnamese spring rolls are deep-fried spring rolls made with pork, shrimp, vegetables, and rice paper. They are typically shaped like a semi-circle, fried to a golden brown, and served with sweet chili sauce. 2. Fresh Spring Rolls (Gỏi cuốn): Fresh spring rolls are one of the most representative Vietnamese snacks. They consist of fresh vegetables, herbs, grilled meat, shrimp, or fried spring roll wrapper wrapped in thin rice paper, typically served with a special dipping sauce. • Variety of fillings: The main ingredients of fresh spring rolls include fresh vegetables such as lettuce leaves, mint leaves, coriander, bean sprouts, etc. Additionally, grilled meat, cooked shrimp, crab sticks, or fried spring roll wrappers can be added to provide different textures and flavors.

Penang Chap Goh Meh Valentine Celabration 2025

 Penang’s Chap Goh Meh celebration this year was extra special since it fell on the same day as Western Valentine’s Day (Feb 14)—a rare coincidence that made the festival even more romantic!

Held at the Esplanade, the event kicked off at 5pm, drawing crowds eager to soak in the lively atmosphere. There was a great mix of cultural performances, keeping everyone entertained from start to finish. The Dondang Sayang Peranakan dance set the tone with its graceful movements, while the lion dance on stilts had everyone holding their breath with its daring acrobatics. The drum performances pumped up the energy, and the Chingay display, with its massive flag balancing act, was a crowd favorite.

And what’s Chap Goh Meh without the classic tradition of throwing mandarin oranges into the sea? Single ladies hoping for love eagerly tossed their oranges, each one carrying a written wish or their phone number—keeping the age-old matchmaking custom alive! The night ended on a high note with a dazzling fireworks display, lighting up the sky over the waterfront. It was a perfect blend of tradition, romance, and celebration—truly a night to remember in Penang!

Penang KOMTAR Tower-- The TOP's Jurassic Research Center

KOMTAR Tower, located in George Town, Penang, Malaysia, is an iconic landmark and one of the tallest structures in the region. At The TOP Komtar, an entertainment and leisure center within the tower, visitors are treated to a variety of unique attractions and thrilling experiences.

1. KOMTAR Tower Skywalk

The Rainbow Skywalk: Located on the 68th floor, this glass-floored skywalk offers an exhilarating experience as you step out onto a transparent platform and see the city below from a dizzying height. It's particularly stunning at sunset and during the evening when the city lights up.

The Observatory Deck: Just below the skywalk, this deck provides panoramic views of George Town, the coastline, and even distant hills.

2. The TOP's Jurassic Research Center

Dinosaur-Themed Attraction: The Jurassic Research Center is a thrilling and educational experience that takes visitors back in time. Life-sized, animatronic dinosaurs, including a towering T-Rex and other prehistoric creatures, offer a realistic experience of the Jurassic period.

Educational Experience: It’s not just about seeing dinosaurs—guests can learn about the evolution of these creatures, their habitats, and extinction, making it a favorite for both children and adults interested in natural history.

 

Thaipusam Celebration in Penang 2025

If you’ve never experienced Thaipusam before, you’re in for something truly incredible. It’s a Hindu festival celebrated by the Tamil community, and Penang hosts one of the biggest and most breathtaking Thaipusam celebrations outside of India!"

-- Devotees carrying kavadis, people smashing coconuts, chariots moving through the streets

--Close-up of kavadi bearers, piercing rituals, drummers leading the procession

--Crowds walking towards Waterfall Hill Temple, chanting and music in the air

--Street food stalls, people enjoying traditional Indian sweets and snacks

During Thaipusam, you’ll find stalls offering delicious vegetarian meals, sweet treats like laddu and payasam, and refreshing coconut water to beat the heat.

 

Gurney Plaza Food Adventure

Gurney Plaza Food Adventure

Hello, food lovers and fellow adventurers! If you’re new here, I’m thrilled to have you join me on this delicious journey. Today, I’ll be taking you to one of Penang’s most vibrant shopping malls—Gurney Plaza—where we’re going on an epic food-hunting adventure.

Nestled along Gurney Drive, Gurney Plaza is not just a shopping haven; it’s a paradise for food enthusiasts. With its mix of local delights, international cuisines, and trendy cafes, this spot is perfect for satisfying every craving. From quick snacks to gourmet meals, this mall has it all. So, loosen your belts, because we’re diving right into the culinary treasures of this iconic location!

 

Gurney Paragon Mall, Penang

Penang’s most iconic shopping destinations: Gurney Paragon Mall! Nestled along the upscale and scenic Gurney Drive, this luxurious shopping complex offers a mix of retail therapy, fine dining, and cultural charm that’s sure to captivate both locals and tourists alike.

Located in the heart of Penang’s vibrant commercial hub, Gurney Paragon Mall isn’t just another mall—it’s a lifestyle experience. From its striking architectural design that seamlessly blends heritage and modernity to its array of high-end international brands, this mall has earned its reputation as a must-visit destination in the Northern Region of Peninsular Malaysia.

A Perfect Location

Gurney Paragon Mall stands proudly along Gurney Drive, one of the most affluent areas in Penang. This famous promenade is lined with luxurious hotels, chic cafes, and sought-after residential properties. The mall itself is housed in a complex that includes the restored St. Joseph’s Novitiate, a historical building dating back to 1918. This beautiful structure has been transformed into a cultural and event space, adding a unique charm to the shopping experience.

A Blend of Heritage and Modernity

One of the standout features of Gurney Paragon Mall is its unique architectural design. The preserved St. Joseph’s Novitiate adds a historical touch to the otherwise contemporary mall. The juxtaposition of old and new creates a vibrant atmosphere that reflects Penang’s rich cultural heritage.

Foodie Paradise

No trip to Gurney Paragon Mall is complete without indulging in its culinary delights. From international fine dining to local street food-inspired eateries, the mall caters to all taste buds. Don’t miss out on the open-air dining spots that offer stunning views of the coastline, especially during sunset.

 

2025槟城庙会舞狮变脸Penang miaohui

If you’ve never heard of it, Miaohui is Penang's version of the Chinese New Year Cultural & Heritage Celebration. It’s an incredible street festival that turns George Town into a lively hub of traditional performances, colorful decorations, and cultural showcases.

Lion dances, Chinese opera, calligraphy art, traditional games, food stalls—you name it! It’s like stepping into a living museum where every corner has a story to tell.

What’s really special about Miaohui is how it brings people from all walks of life together to celebrate Penang’s rich Chinese heritage. Plus, the food? Absolutely amazing—trust me, you don’t want to miss that part!

 

Malaysia Sabah : Mount Kinabalu / Kinabalu National Park

Mount Kinabalu: The centerpiece of the park is Mount Kinabalu, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a popular destination for mountaineers and trekkers from all around the world. The climb to the summit, often starting in the early hours of the morning, offers breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape. 

Continuing from the previous description, climbing Mount Kinabalu is a challenging yet rewarding experience for adventurers. The trek to the summit typically starts at the Timpohon Gate, where climbers register and begin their ascent. The journey is divided into several checkpoints or rest houses, such as Layang Layang Hut, Laban Rata, and others, where climbers can take a break and rest overnight.

The climb usually takes two days, with the first day focusing on reaching Laban Rata, which is situated at around 3,273 meters (10,738 feet) above sea level. Along the way, trekkers pass through different vegetation zones, witnessing changes in flora and fauna as they ascend. The trail is well-maintained and clearly marked, making it accessible to various fitness levels, but climbers should still be prepared for steep sections and varying weather conditions.