https://beyondelittlereddot.com/2026/03/20/doi-mae-u-kho-fields-of-gold/2026-03-30T02:01:21+00:00monthlyhttps://beyondelittlereddot.com/2026/02/13/mae-hong-son-city-a-peaceful-respite/2026-03-07T16:25:56+00:00monthlyhttps://beyondelittlereddot.com/2026/01/16/ban-rak-thai-a-slice-of-yunnan-in-the-mountains/2026-01-15T13:45:23+00:00monthlyhttps://beyondelittlereddot.com/2025/12/12/travelling-the-mae-hong-son-loop/2025-12-06T00:22:57+00:00monthlyhttps://beyondelittlereddot.com/2025/08/22/east-java-the-road-less-traveled/2025-08-24T11:10:58+00:00monthlyhttps://beyondelittlereddot.com/2025/07/18/mt-bromo-sulfur-clouds-and-sand-seas/2025-08-20T12:17:46+00:00monthlyhttps://beyondelittlereddot.com/2025/06/13/melbourne-memories/2025-06-10T12:50:06+00:00monthlyhttps://beyondelittlereddot.com/2025/02/21/ho-chi-minh-city/2025-06-03T16:37:57+00:00monthlyhttps://beyondelittlereddot.com/2025/01/17/the-nomadic-life/2025-04-09T23:42:31+00:00monthlyhttps://beyondelittlereddot.com/2024/12/20/golden-eagle-festival/https://beyondelittlereddot.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/5d3_0222.jpg5D3_02222025-03-18T23:11:47+00:00monthlyhttps://beyondelittlereddot.com/2024/11/15/ulaanbataar-a-city-of-contrasts/2024-11-24T04:51:57+00:00monthlyhttps://beyondelittlereddot.com/2024/10/01/__trashed/https://beyondelittlereddot.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/oneholland.jpgOneHollandhttps://beyondelittlereddot.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/hollandvillage.jpgHollandVillagehttps://beyondelittlereddot.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/image.pngQuincy House2024-09-29T16:37:05+00:00monthlyhttps://beyondelittlereddot.com/2024/10/25/day-trip-to-port-arthur/2024-11-24T04:57:46+00:00monthlyhttps://beyondelittlereddot.com/2024/09/20/hobart-first-impressions/2024-10-19T13:22:49+00:00monthlyhttps://beyondelittlereddot.com/2024/08/30/the-great-ocean-road/2024-08-30T03:54:46+00:00monthlyhttps://beyondelittlereddot.com/2024/08/02/when-lady-aurora-dances/2024-08-03T15:12:06+00:00monthlyhttps://beyondelittlereddot.com/2024/06/07/my-first-time-on-live-radio/2024-06-08T03:01:53+00:00monthlyhttps://beyondelittlereddot.com/2024/04/26/into-the-glacier/2024-05-18T10:24:27+00:00monthlyhttps://beyondelittlereddot.com/2023/03/24/cape-byron-lighthouse/2024-05-18T03:42:10+00:00monthlyhttps://beyondelittlereddot.com/2024/05/17/an-unlikely-castle/https://beyondelittlereddot.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/01/kellie20.jpgkellie20A part of the castle that has not been conserved is the stables and guardhouse.https://beyondelittlereddot.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/01/kellie19.jpgkellie19A decorated room on the ground floor which tries to envision how William would have decorated his castle. These are based on photos of the old bungalow.https://beyondelittlereddot.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/01/kellie18.jpgkellie18Another secret stairs in a small passage between the children's bedrooms. https://beyondelittlereddot.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/01/kellie16.jpgkellie16https://beyondelittlereddot.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/01/kellie15.jpgkellie15One of the rooms in the castle. https://beyondelittlereddot.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/01/kellie14.jpgkellie14The Moorish design is repeated everywhere in the castle's doorways and windows.https://beyondelittlereddot.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/01/kellie13.jpgkellie13https://beyondelittlereddot.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/01/kellie12.jpgkellie12https://beyondelittlereddot.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/01/kellie11.jpgkellie11The ground floor corridor with it's Moorish designed archways.https://beyondelittlereddot.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/01/kellie10.jpgkellie102024-05-18T03:41:36+00:00monthlyhttps://beyondelittlereddot.com/2024/03/29/eye-in-the-sky-above-iceland/2024-05-18T10:38:27+00:00monthlyhttps://beyondelittlereddot.com/2024/02/23/old-world-charm-at-the-eastern-oriental/2024-03-29T08:04:07+00:00monthlyhttps://beyondelittlereddot.com/2023/12/29/ghost-of-winters-past-the-solheimasandur-plane-wreck/2024-01-14T13:01:12+00:00monthlyhttps://beyondelittlereddot.com/2023/12/09/5-places-in-iceland-that-will-transport-you-to-another-planet/2025-12-05T10:55:18+00:00monthlyhttps://beyondelittlereddot.com/2023/09/15/lazarus-island-stay-the-night/2024-03-13T07:09:43+00:00monthlyhttps://beyondelittlereddot.com/2023/07/21/maldives-first-timers-guide/2025-03-26T12:59:57+00:00monthlyhttps://beyondelittlereddot.com/2023/05/28/the-mirror-lake/2023-05-28T02:31:41+00:00monthlyhttps://beyondelittlereddot.com/2023/04/28/tangalooma-wrecks/2023-05-05T17:01:35+00:00monthlyhttps://beyondelittlereddot.com/2023/02/24/khao-soi/2023-05-09T17:18:44+00:00monthlyhttps://beyondelittlereddot.com/2023/01/27/road-to-pai/2023-01-11T00:26:56+00:00monthlyhttps://beyondelittlereddot.com/2022/12/30/the-life-in-pai/2023-01-09T03:43:22+00:00monthlyhttps://beyondelittlereddot.com/2022/12/09/paramotoring-in-chiangmai/2024-08-21T16:15:00+00:00monthlyhttps://beyondelittlereddot.com/2022/10/28/hue-first-impressions/2022-12-04T09:48:07+00:00monthlyhttps://beyondelittlereddot.com/2022/09/30/hoi-an-ancient-town/2022-10-01T06:27:26+00:00monthlyhttps://beyondelittlereddot.com/2022/08/25/da-nang/2022-08-27T02:50:33+00:00monthlyhttps://beyondelittlereddot.com/2022/01/28/an-unlikely-hot-spring/2024-06-18T07:23:35+00:00monthlyhttps://beyondelittlereddot.com/2022/06/03/the-tower-of-medan/2022-06-06T03:22:01+00:00monthlyhttps://beyondelittlereddot.com/2022/03/25/gin-distillery-tour/2022-03-27T13:49:17+00:00monthlyhttps://beyondelittlereddot.com/2021/12/24/chasing-the-sun/2022-04-08T15:51:56+00:00monthlyhttps://beyondelittlereddot.com/shop/2021-11-27T09:47:51+00:00weekly0.6https://beyondelittlereddot.com/2021/08/28/the-hidden-railway/2021-08-28T06:44:23+00:00monthlyhttps://beyondelittlereddot.com/2021/05/14/flight-of-the-albatross/2025-04-19T11:31:10+00:00monthlyhttps://beyondelittlereddot.com/2021/02/21/crocodile-spotting-and-other-reptiles/2021-08-08T11:50:22+00:00monthlyhttps://beyondelittlereddot.com/2020/12/05/island-hopping-singapore-edition/2021-05-12T15:12:40+00:00monthlyhttps://beyondelittlereddot.com/about/my-travel-map/2020-09-22T16:45:05+00:00weekly0.6https://beyondelittlereddot.com/2020/08/16/the-pandemic-national-day/https://beyondelittlereddot.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/08/mobile-column-2.jpgMobile Column 2Also a chance for Singapore to show off it's locally produce hardware.https://beyondelittlereddot.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/08/fireworks-2.jpgFireworks 2It was a short 5 minute fireworks display and unfortunately, I used a wide angle lens thinking the fireworks was going to be shot higher due to the high rise buildings around it. But the display was smaller and at lower altitude resulting in this rather puny looking photo.https://beyondelittlereddot.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/08/fireworks-1.jpgFireworks 1Going early to find a good spot to catch the fireworks also meant that I got a chance to see the afterglow of the setting Sun.https://beyondelittlereddot.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/08/overhead-bridge.jpgOverhead BridgeI didn't think so many people would actually spend their morning looking at military vehicles but I was wrong.https://beyondelittlereddot.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/08/mobile-column-1.jpgMobile Column 1It's not everyday that you see main battle tanks rolling down your neighbourhood. In some other countries this would look like a scene from a military coup.2020-09-05T19:06:37+00:00monthlyhttps://beyondelittlereddot.com/2020/06/27/the-power-of-2/2020-09-05T13:04:53+00:00monthlyhttps://beyondelittlereddot.com/2020/06/06/sound-of-silence/2020-07-21T23:47:43+00:00monthlyhttps://beyondelittlereddot.com/2020/05/15/the-birds-eye-view/https://beyondelittlereddot.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/05/sunset-wc.jpgDCIM100MEDIADJI_0014.JPGTaking a sunset shot over West Coast Park in Singapore from around 30m in the air.https://beyondelittlereddot.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/05/mini-size-opened.jpgMini size openedIt's actually smaller than my Samsung S10+, but with the wings extended, it's bigger.https://beyondelittlereddot.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/05/mini-size-folded.jpgMini size foldedIt fits into the palm of your hand when it's folded up.https://beyondelittlereddot.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/05/mini-case.jpgMini caseI decided to buy the Fly More combo which comes with 2 extra batteries, a battery charger which doubles up as a powerbank, and a handy carrying case which also protects the drone while travelling.https://beyondelittlereddot.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/05/drone-in-flight.jpgDrone in flightA DJI Mavic which is one of the more popular drone models. I took this photo in Boracay when a tourist was flying it.2020-05-15T07:20:28+00:00monthlyhttps://beyondelittlereddot.com/2020/04/18/life-on-the-delta/https://beyondelittlereddot.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/ayeyarwady-16.jpgAyeyarwady-16Driving on the beach sounds fun, but not when it's pitch dark at night, and you have to avoid boats, parked vehicles and people who were walking along the beach. 2020-09-20T11:15:26+00:00monthlyhttps://beyondelittlereddot.com/2020/03/27/the-circus/2020-03-10T23:47:00+00:00monthlyhttps://beyondelittlereddot.com/2020/03/06/the-sandy-island/https://beyondelittlereddot.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/01/shamian-title.jpgShamian TitleA tranquil scene early in the morning. Ancient banyan trees line the shore of the canal dug by the British in 1859 to separate Shamian from the main shore and you can see the bridge that connects the French side of Shamian to the mainland.https://beyondelittlereddot.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/01/shamian-17.jpgShamian 17We stayed at the White Swan Hotel which is built on reclaimed land along Shamian Island. This hotel has welcomed many foreign leaders like Queen Elizabeth and President George Bush.https://beyondelittlereddot.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/01/shamian-16.jpgShamian 16Another building with a tea shop on the ground floor. https://beyondelittlereddot.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/01/shamian-15.jpgShamian 15https://beyondelittlereddot.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/01/shamian-14.jpgShamian 14The buildings also come to life at night with their lighted facades.https://beyondelittlereddot.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/01/shamian-13.jpgShamian 13Practicing Taichi in the morning.https://beyondelittlereddot.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/01/shamian-12.jpgShamian 12Nationalist posters can be seen in some of the government buildings. https://beyondelittlereddot.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/01/shamian-11.jpgShamian 11The prominent buildings will have a metal plaque on the ground in front of them explaining the history of the building. For historical buffs, this might be interesting, but I wasn't going to go round staring at the ground.https://beyondelittlereddot.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/01/shamian-10.jpgShamian 10Here is a strange one, the Bank of Taiwan Building. I wonder how it came to be.https://beyondelittlereddot.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/01/shamian-9.jpgShamian 9I was quite fascinated by the presence of these very ancient looking banyan trees. Not only do you find them growing abundantly on Shamian Island, you will also find them growing else where in Guangzhou.2020-04-13T12:00:05+00:00monthlyhttps://beyondelittlereddot.com/2020/02/14/guangzhou-canton/2020-03-28T21:43:08+00:00monthlyhttps://beyondelittlereddot.com/2020/01/31/yangon-streets/2020-01-31T12:29:58+00:00monthlyhttps://beyondelittlereddot.com/2020/01/10/the-last-eclipse-of-2019/2020-02-07T13:16:17+00:00monthlyhttps://beyondelittlereddot.com/2019/12/20/the-prison-island/2020-01-03T06:58:05+00:00monthlyhttps://beyondelittlereddot.com/2019/11/29/day-trip-to-the-death-railway/2019-12-19T01:46:35+00:00monthlyhttps://beyondelittlereddot.com/2019/11/15/bangkok-markets/2020-03-27T13:28:28+00:00monthlyhttps://beyondelittlereddot.com/2019/10/25/beating-the-traffic-jams-in-bangkok/https://beyondelittlereddot.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/10/bangkok-jam-1.jpgBangkok jam2019-10-27T08:22:27+00:00monthlyhttps://beyondelittlereddot.com/2019/10/11/the-queen-of-street-food/2019-10-23T16:43:26+00:00monthlyhttps://beyondelittlereddot.com/2019/09/27/palawan-a-hidden-paradise/https://beyondelittlereddot.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/08/underground-river-jetty-1.jpgUnderground River Jetty 1Getting to the PPUR first requires that you board these boats that will bring small groups of visitors to a landing point near the PPUR. https://beyondelittlereddot.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/08/underground-river-fees.jpgUnderground River FeesA sign which shows how much of your entrance fees goes into supporting the PPUR. https://beyondelittlereddot.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/08/underground-river-boat-ride-3.jpgUnderground River Boat Ride 3Now is the time to let you know that you have to jump onto the beach and get your feet wet. The best is not to wear expensive shoes during this tour. Flip flops are actually a good idea.https://beyondelittlereddot.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/08/underground-river-boat-ride-2.jpgUnderground River Boat Ride 2Somewhere behind those steep cliffs lies an underground river.https://beyondelittlereddot.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/08/underground-river-boat-ride-1.jpgUnderground River Boat Ride 1We left Sabang Wharf and made our way to the PPUR. It's a short boat ride of around 15 minutes.https://beyondelittlereddot.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/08/underground-river-audio-guide.jpgUnderground River Audio GuideIn order to preserve ecology of the PPUR, no excessive noise is allowed in the caves. So each one of us was given a personal audio device which narrates interesting facts about the PPUR through an earphone.https://beyondelittlereddot.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/08/underground-river-6.jpgUnderground River 6Finally we came out of the underground river back through the same opening that we had entered. The tour lasts for around 45 minutes and we had traveled around 2km or more of caves. The PPUR itself is thought to be 24km long, and only 8km of it has been explored.https://beyondelittlereddot.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/08/underground-river-5.jpgUnderground River 5Most of the time, we were paddling through low rocks and narrow passages...https://beyondelittlereddot.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/08/underground-river-4.jpgUnderground River 4But there are a couple of large caverns with ceilings as high as 60m above us. The sight of giant stalactites and stalagmites is quite impressive. https://beyondelittlereddot.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/08/underground-river-3.jpgUnderground River 3And we could the millions of bats which make the caves their home. As we were warned in the audio narration, we had to keep our mouths shut as we looked up or risk getting a mouthful of bat guano.2019-11-16T09:39:04+00:00monthlyhttps://beyondelittlereddot.com/2019/09/06/the-underground-river/https://beyondelittlereddot.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/08/zipline-2.jpgZipline 2The zipline is quite slow and the initial adrenaline rush is soon replaced with a calmness as you take in the sight of coral reefs below you, as you glide smoothly above the water.https://beyondelittlereddot.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/08/zipline-1.jpgZipline 1A short hike up the small hill to the launching point and you will soon be zipping over the turquoise blue sea with a backdrop of mountains and sandy beaches below. This is has got to be one of most beautiful ziplines I've taken. https://beyondelittlereddot.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/08/ugong-rock-6.jpgUgong Rock 6There are 2 ziplines to get down from Ugong Rock. One is the normal sitting position, and the other is the "Superman" position where you are prone and flying like Superman. You will need to top up an additional 200 pesos to take the Superman position and you can use your own Gopro or smartphone to take videos on the way down. For the normal position, you are not allowed to take your own videos. It's quite disappointing that they don't mention these before you choose your ziplines.https://beyondelittlereddot.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/08/ugong-rock-5.jpgUgong Rock 5The view of the surrounding countryside from the top of Ugong Rock. I found the climb itself not exhausting although it can be physically demanding,. Overall, it's a great way to experience some spelunking, followed by a zipline back down.https://beyondelittlereddot.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/08/ugong-rock-4.jpgUgong Rock 4The difficulty ramps up with steep stairs and rocks where you have to climb and squeeze through. Still it's nothing difficult and most people will be able to do it.https://beyondelittlereddot.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/08/ugong-rock-3.jpgUgong Rock 3This will probably be the hardest part where you will have to pull yourself up a rope ladder to the top of the rock ledge. Don't worry as there is are guides to help pull you up and make sure you don't fall. This was a 70+ year old woman who was in my group, and she made the climb!https://beyondelittlereddot.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/08/ugong-rock-2.jpgUgong Rock 2Followed by some more narrower passages. it's still level 0.https://beyondelittlereddot.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/08/ugong-rock-1.jpgUgong Rock 1The difficulty level starts off at level 0 with a stroll through some rock passages.https://beyondelittlereddot.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/08/tricycle.jpgTricycleThe tricycle is the local taxi here. It's basically a motorbike with a sidecar with cabin attached to it. It can easily sit 3 adults, or 4 if everyone squeezes a bit. You'll find these all over Puerto Princesa and the other towns and villages in Palawan.https://beyondelittlereddot.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/08/sabang-wharf-4.jpgSabang Wharf 4Even the kids help out their parents in preparing the nets for the next day's fishing.2019-11-10T01:41:13+00:00monthlyhttps://beyondelittlereddot.com/2019/07/26/cruising-the-mighty-mekong/https://beyondelittlereddot.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/07/hpa-an-hotel.jpgHpa An HotelWe finally settled on this hotel. It looks good on the outside with decent rooms and breakfast provided, but lousy wifi.2019-12-28T05:11:16+00:00monthlyhttps://beyondelittlereddot.com/2019/07/08/land-of-a-thousand-pagodas-2/https://beyondelittlereddot.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/07/bagansunset2.jpgbagansunset2https://beyondelittlereddot.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/07/bagansunset1.jpgbagansunset1https://beyondelittlereddot.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/07/bagansunset6.jpgbagansunset6https://beyondelittlereddot.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/07/bagansunset4.jpgbagansunset4https://beyondelittlereddot.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/07/bagansunrise3.jpgbagansunrise3https://beyondelittlereddot.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/07/bagansunrise2.jpgbagansunrise2https://beyondelittlereddot.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/07/bagansunrise1.jpgbagansunrise1https://beyondelittlereddot.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/07/baganballoons3.jpgbaganballoons3https://beyondelittlereddot.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/07/baganballoons2.jpgbaganballoons2https://beyondelittlereddot.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/07/baganballoons1-1.jpgbaganballoons12019-07-08T13:37:16+00:00monthlyhttps://beyondelittlereddot.com/2019/07/05/the-gibbon-experience/https://beyondelittlereddot.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/06/slow-boat-title.jpgSlow Boat TitleA very alpine looking scene as the Mekong winds it's way through mountains.https://beyondelittlereddot.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/04/treehouse-14.jpgTreehouse 14I finally turned in for the night, although some of the group were still talking and playing cards till late. Despite the spartan conditions, I found myself sound asleep and snoring. https://beyondelittlereddot.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/04/gibbon-title.jpgGibbon Title2019-07-05T08:33:06+00:00monthlyhttps://beyondelittlereddot.com/2019/06/14/a-little-town-on-the-mekong/https://beyondelittlereddot.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/04/houay-xai-15.jpgHouay Xai 15The front of the temple seems pretty normal to me...2019-06-29T17:14:00+00:00monthlyhttps://beyondelittlereddot.com/2019/08/16/hpa-an/2019-08-23T02:17:10+00:00monthlyhttps://beyondelittlereddot.com/2019/05/31/sleeping-with-a-stranger/2019-05-28T13:14:09+00:00monthlyhttps://beyondelittlereddot.com/2019/05/10/luang-prabang-in-3-days/2019-08-17T00:25:41+00:00monthlyhttps://beyondelittlereddot.com/2019/04/05/hong-kong-harbour-cruise/2019-05-05T11:41:11+00:00monthlyhttps://beyondelittlereddot.com/2019/04/26/perak-cave-temple/2019-05-08T06:38:39+00:00monthlyhttps://beyondelittlereddot.com/2019/03/22/taking-the-island-cruise-in-sai-kung/2019-03-26T11:45:29+00:00monthlyhttps://beyondelittlereddot.com/2019/03/07/exploring-the-blue-mountains-katoomba-cascades/2019-03-07T10:47:07+00:00monthlyhttps://beyondelittlereddot.com/2019/02/15/exploring-the-blue-mountains-blackheath/https://beyondelittlereddot.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/01/blackheath-title.jpgblackheath titleOverlooking the Grose Valley, it reminded me of the Grand Canyon in USA. 2019-02-14T11:03:47+00:00monthlyhttps://beyondelittlereddot.com/2019/01/25/a-haunted-tour/2019-01-24T10:42:24+00:00monthlyhttps://beyondelittlereddot.com/2019/01/07/the-rocks/2019-01-08T13:08:24+00:00monthlyhttps://beyondelittlereddot.com/2018/10/06/spending-a-day-in-osaka/2019-01-13T02:06:01+00:00monthlyhttps://beyondelittlereddot.com/2018/09/23/osaka-castle/https://beyondelittlereddot.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/09/osaka-9.jpgOsaka 9The old moats surrounding the castle have been converted into small boating areas. You could take a cruise on these small boats along the moats and enjoy scenic views while cruising slowly.2018-11-10T12:35:57+00:00monthlyhttps://beyondelittlereddot.com/2018/08/31/the-road-to-hogwarts/2018-10-14T15:05:58+00:00monthlyhttps://beyondelittlereddot.com/2018/08/17/should-you-get-the-japan-rail-pass/2019-01-06T06:59:58+00:00monthlyhttps://beyondelittlereddot.com/2018/08/03/nara-deer-park/https://beyondelittlereddot.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/07/todaiji12.jpgTodaiji12In one of the massive pillars that supports the temple, there is a small square hole which is said to be the same size as the nostril of the Great Buddha statue. Anyone who can squeeze through that hole will gain enlightenment for their next life. So many have tried, but only the small hip people will pass through. 2019-04-02T09:15:17+00:00monthlyhttps://beyondelittlereddot.com/2018/07/20/staying-in-a-traditional-machiya/https://beyondelittlereddot.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/07/machiya-10.jpgmachiya-10Things that we needed to get used to were like this second floor bathroom which had no wash basin except the one above the WC. It only worked when you flushed the toilet. A nice concept for conservation, but not really what I would want to use.2018-09-17T20:46:17+00:00monthlyhttps://beyondelittlereddot.com/2018/06/22/araishiyama-and-the-sagano-romantic-train/https://beyondelittlereddot.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/06/sagano5.jpgsagano5I was greeted by this cute display at Kameoka Station.https://beyondelittlereddot.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/06/sagano4.jpgsagano4The train leaves every hour and tickets are ¥620 for adults and ¥310 for kids one way. If you want to take the train back, you have to buy a return ticket. But there are other ways to get back besides taking the same train again.https://beyondelittlereddot.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/06/sagano3.jpgsagano3The train runs along the side of the ravine and you can see the Hozugawa river below. One of the ways to get back to Araishiyama is by river boat. It takes 2 hours for these boats to make their way.https://beyondelittlereddot.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/06/sagano2.jpgsagano2The tranquil scene at Kameoka Station. This is the last stop for the Sagano Romantic Train.https://beyondelittlereddot.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/06/sagano1.jpgsagano1We chose to sit in the open air carriage. Tickets for this carriage are only available on the same day. You'd have to go to the station and check if seats are available and book them.https://beyondelittlereddot.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/06/tenryuji2.jpgtenryuji2Tourists walking towards the main entrance of Tenryu-ji Temple. There is an admission fee of ¥500 to enter the temple.https://beyondelittlereddot.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/06/tenryuji1.jpgtenryuji1Cherry blossom season was ending and the grounds were covered with pink petals of the cherry flowers.https://beyondelittlereddot.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/06/araishiyama3.jpgaraishiyama3From Saga-Araishiyama Station, it's a short walk to most of the attractions. Signs along the way help to guide you.https://beyondelittlereddot.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/06/araishiyama21.jpgaraishiyama2The pathways are mostly filled with visitors and it can be really hard to find a quiet spot.2018-06-22T04:12:39+00:00monthlyhttps://beyondelittlereddot.com/2018/07/06/the-starbucks-in-a-tea-house/2018-07-06T16:45:58+00:00monthlyhttps://beyondelittlereddot.com/2018/06/08/4-places-in-kyoto-for-great-views/https://beyondelittlereddot.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/05/yasaka2.jpgYasaka2The front gate of Yasaka Shrine is elevated slightly. But that is good enough for me to shoot a gorgeous sunset view of the Gion district.https://beyondelittlereddot.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/05/yasaka1.jpgYasaka1Shot on my Galaxy S8 because this was the day I forgot to bring spare batteries for my DSLR. You don't need a DSLR to capture this splendid sunset.https://beyondelittlereddot.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/05/kyoto-tower5.jpgkyoto-tower5If you don't have a telephoto lens, fret not. Placed around the observation deck are high powered telescopes and binoculars. These aren't the cheap ones that you find elsewhere. Their view was clear and crisp. Here are shots taken using my smartphone's camera capturing through one of the telescopes.https://beyondelittlereddot.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/05/kyoto-tower4.jpgkyoto-tower4After the sunset, you can hang around to watch the city's lights come on.https://beyondelittlereddot.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/05/kyoto-tower3.jpgkyoto-tower3Everyone's waiting for the sunset to happen.https://beyondelittlereddot.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/05/kyoto-tower2.jpgkyoto-tower2Probably the best time for views is sunset. On a clear day, you can see all the way until Osaka from here. https://beyondelittlereddot.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/05/kyoto-tower1.jpgkyoto-tower1Standing at a total height of 131m, the Kyoto Tower was built in 1964 and offers a 360° view of Kyoto. https://beyondelittlereddot.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/05/kiyomizudera3.jpgKiyomizudera3When I was there in early spring, the temple grounds were open until late at night and it's possible to get a good night time view of Kyoto city. Here is Kyoto Tower lighted up at night.https://beyondelittlereddot.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/05/kiyomizudera2.jpgKiyomizudera2Walking around the grounds of Kiyomizudera Temple will lead to a pathway that overlooks Kyoto city. https://beyondelittlereddot.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/05/kiyomizudera1.jpgKiyomizudera1Even after a storm, the scene of sunlight bursting through the rain clouds is quite dramatic.2018-06-08T05:07:26+00:00monthlyhttps://beyondelittlereddot.com/2018/05/25/have-an-iguana-with-your-coffee/2018-06-02T11:33:11+00:00monthlyhttps://beyondelittlereddot.com/2018/05/11/japanese-whiskey-appreciation/2018-05-11T09:13:42+00:00monthlyhttps://beyondelittlereddot.com/2018/04/27/how-to-trade-in-your-old-camera/2018-05-25T09:41:23+00:00monthlyhttps://beyondelittlereddot.com/2018/04/20/old-town-revival/https://beyondelittlereddot.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/04/ipoh141.jpgIpoh14https://beyondelittlereddot.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/04/ipoh16.jpgIpoh16https://beyondelittlereddot.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/04/ipoh15.jpgIpoh15https://beyondelittlereddot.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/04/ipoh13.jpgIpoh13https://beyondelittlereddot.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/04/ipoh12.jpgIpoh12https://beyondelittlereddot.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/04/ipoh11.jpgIpoh11https://beyondelittlereddot.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/04/ipoh10.jpgIpoh10https://beyondelittlereddot.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/04/ipoh9.jpgIpoh9https://beyondelittlereddot.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/04/ipoh8.jpgIpoh8https://beyondelittlereddot.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/04/ipoh7.jpgIpoh72018-04-24T01:49:00+00:00monthlyhttps://beyondelittlereddot.com/2018/03/14/inle-lake/https://beyondelittlereddot.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/01/inle6.jpginle6I bet you can't do that. Fishing and steering with 1 leg while balancing on the end of your boat.https://beyondelittlereddot.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/01/inle5.jpginle5One of the fishermen using the traditional wooden basket to catch fish.https://beyondelittlereddot.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/01/inle4.jpginle4Another winning pose. https://beyondelittlereddot.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/01/inle3.jpginle3He even told me to take this shot. And you can see this similar shot in most other travel photographers' portfolio.https://beyondelittlereddot.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/01/inle2.jpginle2Even then it's really amazing how they balance on a rocking boat.https://beyondelittlereddot.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/01/inle1.jpginle1If you really want to do the tourist thing, there are fishermen who are dressed in traditional garb and will pose for you. We paid this guy 5,000 Kyats (SGD5) for around 15 minutes of posing.2018-04-19T09:20:54+00:00monthlyhttps://beyondelittlereddot.com/2018/02/23/mingun/2018-03-02T02:48:18+00:00monthlyhttps://beyondelittlereddot.com/2018/01/26/land-of-a-thousand-pagodas/2019-07-08T11:45:23+00:00monthlyhttps://beyondelittlereddot.com/2018/02/09/on-the-road-to-mandalay/https://beyondelittlereddot.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/01/mandalay3.jpgmandalay32018-02-05T01:23:21+00:00monthlyhttps://beyondelittlereddot.com/2018/01/12/yangon-in-a-day/2018-01-12T13:09:31+00:00monthlyhttps://beyondelittlereddot.com/2018/01/04/in-a-little-submarine/https://beyondelittlereddot.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/01/submarine9.jpgsubmarine9Stepping out of the claustrophobic confines of the submarine, we found ourselves staring at the propellers that would have moved this war machine through the water.https://beyondelittlereddot.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/01/submarine8.jpgsubmarine8https://beyondelittlereddot.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/01/submarine7.jpgsubmarine7https://beyondelittlereddot.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/01/submarine6.jpgsubmarine6https://beyondelittlereddot.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/01/submarine5.jpgsubmarine5https://beyondelittlereddot.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/01/submarine4.jpgsubmarine4https://beyondelittlereddot.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/01/submarine3.jpgsubmarine3As you walked towards the rear of the submarine, you will pass by various sections like the crews' quarters.https://beyondelittlereddot.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/01/submarine2.jpgsubmarine22018-01-04T10:06:39+00:00monthlyhttps://beyondelittlereddot.com/2017/12/08/christmas-in-the-tropics/2017-12-11T05:59:33+00:00monthlyhttps://beyondelittlereddot.com/2017/11/07/unseen/https://beyondelittlereddot.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/11/flat4.jpgflat4Despite the bleak and lifelessness there is still the occasional beauty that is hidden like this sunset from the corridors.2017-11-26T03:02:27+00:00monthlyhttps://beyondelittlereddot.com/2017/10/12/eat-like-a-local/2017-11-20T12:52:37+00:00monthlyhttps://beyondelittlereddot.com/2017/10/06/blue-mountains-getaway/https://beyondelittlereddot.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/08/sydney-central-station-2.jpgSydney Central Station 2https://beyondelittlereddot.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/08/sydney-central-station-1.jpgSydney Central Station 12018-02-12T02:09:13+00:00monthlyhttps://beyondelittlereddot.com/2017/09/20/bondi-to-coogee-coastal-walk/2018-02-12T02:23:56+00:00monthlyhttps://beyondelittlereddot.com/2017/09/06/weekend-in-kuala-lumpur/2017-11-06T09:43:51+00:00monthlyhttps://beyondelittlereddot.com/2017/08/25/whale-watching-in-the-city/2017-08-25T02:15:39+00:00monthlyhttps://beyondelittlereddot.com/2017/08/15/sydney/2018-02-12T03:15:46+00:00monthlyhttps://beyondelittlereddot.com/2017/08/02/my-gaston-luga-backpack/2017-08-16T08:29:06+00:00monthlyhttps://beyondelittlereddot.com/2017/07/07/boracay/https://beyondelittlereddot.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/07/vendor.jpgvendorThis so reminds me of Edward De Bono's 6 Thinking hats theory. Vendors like him prowl the promenade along White Beach pestering tourists to buy stuff.2017-08-10T17:01:00+00:00monthlyhttps://beyondelittlereddot.com/2017/06/16/visiting-a-french-vineyard/https://beyondelittlereddot.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/06/dijon-market.jpgDijon marketThe Dijon Market or Les Halles is one of the best markets in France. It's a foodie's dream market as farm fresh produce from France is sold here. The market is opened the whole week except Wednesdays and Sundays.https://beyondelittlereddot.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/05/img_0270.jpgIMG_0270Wild flowers growing on the walls.https://beyondelittlereddot.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/05/img_0269.jpgIMG_0269https://beyondelittlereddot.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/05/img_0260.jpgIMG_0260Although small, the main hall was rather cosy.https://beyondelittlereddot.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/05/img_0259.jpgIMG_0259https://beyondelittlereddot.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/05/img_0258.jpgIMG_0258https://beyondelittlereddot.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/05/img_0246.jpgIMG_0246Summer was in full swing.https://beyondelittlereddot.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/05/img_0237.jpgIMG_0237The very small and narrow roads in Châteauneuf. Stone walls complete the medieval vibe.https://beyondelittlereddot.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/05/img_0189.jpgIMG_0189https://beyondelittlereddot.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/05/img_0187.jpgIMG_0187Our first stop was a church near the vineyards.2017-09-17T12:36:34+00:00monthlyhttps://beyondelittlereddot.com/2017/06/02/the-fortress-island/https://beyondelittlereddot.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/05/tangled.jpgTangledThe castle from Tangled. This looks almost like Mont Se. Michel including the stone causeway.https://beyondelittlereddot.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/05/minas-tirith.jpgMinas Tirithhttps://beyondelittlereddot.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/05/mont-st-michel.jpgMont-st-michel2017-07-20T14:06:43+00:00monthlyhttps://beyondelittlereddot.com/2017/05/12/city-of-lights/2017-07-21T00:23:08+00:00monthlyhttps://beyondelittlereddot.com/2017/05/08/in-a-galaxy-far-far-away/2017-05-08T05:32:04+00:00monthlyhttps://beyondelittlereddot.com/2017/03/24/magical-wonderland-by-the-mountain/2017-06-12T03:45:56+00:00monthlyhttps://beyondelittlereddot.com/2017/04/21/on-a-slow-boat/2017-06-24T03:16:07+00:00monthlyhttps://beyondelittlereddot.com/2017/03/15/tibet-roof-of-the-world/2017-07-03T07:01:09+00:00monthlyhttps://beyondelittlereddot.com/2017/02/23/matsumoto/https://beyondelittlereddot.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/02/time-museum.jpgtime-museumThe Museum of Timepieces is across from the start of Nawate Street and has a huge pendulum swinging on it's façade.https://beyondelittlereddot.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/02/matsumoto-streets-4.jpgmatsumoto-streets-4I spotted many berry plants over growing on fences and buildings.https://beyondelittlereddot.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/02/matsumoto-streets-3.jpgmatsumoto-streets-3Along the way to Nawate Street, I see that the city is rather big on antiques and retro stuff. Here is a working postbox that looks out of the 1930's.https://beyondelittlereddot.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/02/matsumoto-streets-2.jpgmatsumoto-streets-2How about this old style building that is sandwiched between 2 modern apartment blocks. It's actually a bookstore.https://beyondelittlereddot.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/02/matsumoto-streets-1.jpgmatsumoto-streets-1This abandoned building is almost covered by creepers. It will probably look nice in summer when the leaves bloom.https://beyondelittlereddot.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/02/matsumoto-hotel.jpgmatsumoto-hotelWe stayed at Hotel Kagetsu which is walking distance to the main attractions of the Castle and the shopping streets.https://beyondelittlereddot.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/02/matsumoto-hotel-room-view.jpgmatsumoto-hotel-room-viewWe booked our rooms through Expedia and the hotel gave us an upgrade to a larger room when we arrived, Yay! We got the attic rooms which were quite spacious and had lots of character. There is also a roof terrace which is quite under utilized but offers spectacular views of the city and castle. https://beyondelittlereddot.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/02/koyabashi-soba.jpgkoyabashi-sobaTop left: Koyabashi Restaurant which is famous for it's soba. Top right: The restaurant is quite small and you need to wait in line to get a seat. Bottom left: Horse steak Bottom right: Soba with mackerel.https://beyondelittlereddot.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/02/frog-street.jpgfrog-streetScenes along Nawate Street. Most of the shops here close early in the evening, So if you want to shop here, you need to come during the day. Statues of frogs are scattered along the street giving it's other name, Frog Street.https://beyondelittlereddot.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/02/frog-street-temple.jpgfrog-street-templeA shrine at the start of Nawate Street. 2017-03-16T10:56:23+00:00monthlyhttps://beyondelittlereddot.com/2017/01/24/the-valley-of-the-snow-monkeys/https://beyondelittlereddot.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/01/snow-monkey-sign.jpgsnow-monkey-signFor food options at Jigokudani, there is this restaurant across the river near the ticketing office. We didn't try it although the sign was kinda interesting.2017-03-12T13:15:10+00:00monthlyhttps://beyondelittlereddot.com/2017/01/06/chinese-legends-journey-to-the-west/2017-03-16T02:32:31+00:00monthlyhttps://beyondelittlereddot.com/2016/12/21/xian-luoyang-and-xinjiang-2011/https://beyondelittlereddot.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/05/xinjiang.jpgxinjianghttps://beyondelittlereddot.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/05/xian.jpgxian2017-02-18T15:42:01+00:00monthlyhttps://beyondelittlereddot.com/2016/12/09/chasing-whales-in-the-tropics/2017-02-13T02:42:23+00:00monthlyhttps://beyondelittlereddot.com/2016/11/24/amphawa-floating-market/https://beyondelittlereddot.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/11/amphawa33.jpgamphawa33There are some temples which you can hop off to visit. This temple has the mummified body of it's first abbot on display in the main hall.2017-08-08T18:09:03+00:00monthlyhttps://beyondelittlereddot.com/2016/11/10/look-out-for-the-train/2016-11-10T17:38:51+00:00monthlyhttps://beyondelittlereddot.com/2016/10/28/tokyo-beyond-the-ordinary/https://beyondelittlereddot.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/09/tsukiji-map.jpgtsukiji-mapA paper map that was given to us. It shows the entire market with the different sections marked out and the place to go to register for the tuna auction - the Fish Information Office (what a name).https://beyondelittlereddot.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/09/tsukiji-20.jpgtsukiji-20Many of the sushi restaurants display a tuna head at their entrance to attract customers.https://beyondelittlereddot.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/09/tsukiji-19.jpgtsukiji-19The streets inside Tsukiji are extremely packed with locals and tourists.https://beyondelittlereddot.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/09/tsukiji-18.jpgtsukiji-18This is the Fish Information Center. We came here the day before to find out where it is. The market is very huge and the map is not to scale, so getting lost is a real possibility.https://beyondelittlereddot.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/09/tsukiji-17.jpgtsukiji-17One of the snacks that you should try. Scallop in butter sauce grilled with a blow torch.https://beyondelittlereddot.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/09/tsukiji-16.jpgtsukiji-16These motorized carts zoom around the inside of the wholesale market and getting run over by them is a possibility.https://beyondelittlereddot.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/09/tsukiji-15.jpgtsukiji-15Huge clams for sale. https://beyondelittlereddot.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/09/tsukiji-14.jpgtsukiji-14The range of seafood on sale is bewildering.https://beyondelittlereddot.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/09/tsukiji-13.jpgtsukiji-13Uni or sea urchin caviar on sale at wholesale priceshttps://beyondelittlereddot.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/09/tsukiji-12.jpgtsukiji-12The couple of famous sushi shops get crowded quickly. Even when we arrived at 6am, there was a long line waiting to get in. This photo shows what it's like when it's alter in the morning when it's even more ridiculously crowded.2016-11-06T12:29:55+00:00monthlyhttps://beyondelittlereddot.com/2016/09/30/hawaii-oahu-and-honolulu/https://beyondelittlereddot.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/09/waikiki-trolley.jpgwaikiki-trolleyhttps://beyondelittlereddot.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/09/waikiki-5.jpgwaikiki-5https://beyondelittlereddot.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/09/waikiki-4.jpgwaikiki-4https://beyondelittlereddot.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/09/waikiki-3.jpgwaikiki-3https://beyondelittlereddot.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/09/waikiki-2.jpgwaikiki-2Waikiki Beach is famours for their long rolling break which makes it ideal for long boarding, tandem surfing and beginners. There are many surf schools along the beach where you can learn to surf.https://beyondelittlereddot.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/09/waikiki-1.jpgwaikiki-1https://beyondelittlereddot.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/09/veterans-cemetry-2.jpgveterans-cemetry-2https://beyondelittlereddot.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/09/veterans-cemetry-1.jpgveterans-cemetry-1https://beyondelittlereddot.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/09/valley-of-temples-3.jpgvalley-of-temples-3https://beyondelittlereddot.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/09/valley-of-temples-2.jpgvalley-of-temples-22018-04-01T22:57:26+00:00monthlyhttps://beyondelittlereddot.com/2016/10/13/big-island/https://beyondelittlereddot.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/09/kona-airport-2.jpgkona-airport-2The relaxed atmosphere at Kailua-Kona Airport. You know you are in Vacationland.https://beyondelittlereddot.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/09/kona-airport-1.jpgkona-airport-1A Hawaiian band was playing in the transit area.https://beyondelittlereddot.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/09/kilauea-31.jpgkilauea-3https://beyondelittlereddot.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/09/south-point-6.jpgsouth-point-6https://beyondelittlereddot.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/09/south-point-5.jpgsouth-point-5https://beyondelittlereddot.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/09/south-point-4.jpgsouth-point-4https://beyondelittlereddot.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/09/south-point-31.jpgsouth-point-3https://beyondelittlereddot.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/09/south-point-2.jpgsouth-point-2https://beyondelittlereddot.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/09/south-point-1.jpgsouth-point-1There is a small wind farm here.https://beyondelittlereddot.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/09/south-point-3.jpgsouth-point-32016-10-27T04:22:14+00:00monthlyhttps://beyondelittlereddot.com/2016/06/09/chasing-the-northern-lights/https://beyondelittlereddot.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/05/aurora13.jpgaurora13A behind the scenes shot. The SUV's which brought us here, somewhere on the Reykjanes Peninsular between Reykjavik and Keflavik Airport, near the coast.https://beyondelittlereddot.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/05/aurora12.jpgaurora12https://beyondelittlereddot.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/05/aurora11.jpgaurora11https://beyondelittlereddot.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/05/aurora10.jpgaurora10https://beyondelittlereddot.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/05/aurora9.jpgaurora9https://beyondelittlereddot.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/05/aurora8.jpgaurora8https://beyondelittlereddot.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/05/aurora7.jpgaurora7https://beyondelittlereddot.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/05/aurora6.jpgaurora6https://beyondelittlereddot.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/05/aurora5.jpgaurora5https://beyondelittlereddot.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/05/aurora4.jpgaurora42019-01-18T00:56:11+00:00monthlyhttps://beyondelittlereddot.com/2016/09/16/hokkaido-in-winter/2016-09-16T01:09:57+00:00monthlyhttps://beyondelittlereddot.com/2016/09/09/ubud-part-22-eat-see-wonder/https://beyondelittlereddot.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/08/gunungkawisebatu-7.jpgGunungkawisebatu-7I really thought about jumping into the water. https://beyondelittlereddot.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/08/tirtaempul-5.jpgTirtaEmpul-5https://beyondelittlereddot.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/08/tirtaempul-3.jpgTirtaEmpul-3https://beyondelittlereddot.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/08/tirtaempul-2.jpgTirtaEmpul-2The natural spring which can be seen coming out of the ground, churning the sand.https://beyondelittlereddot.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/08/tirtaempul-1.jpgTirtaEmpul-1https://beyondelittlereddot.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/08/tegalalang-4.jpgTegalalang-4The 2 side of the valley are covered by the rice terraces making for an incredible sight.https://beyondelittlereddot.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/08/tegalalang-2.jpgTegalalang-2https://beyondelittlereddot.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/08/tegalalang-1.jpgTegalalang-1https://beyondelittlereddot.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/08/petulu-11.jpgPetulu-11https://beyondelittlereddot.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/08/petulu-10.jpgPetulu-10The watching platform is hard to find. You can identify it by the colourful flags outside and it's next to house No.52.2016-09-09T06:24:54+00:00monthlyhttps://beyondelittlereddot.com/2016/08/19/ubud-part-12-eat-pray-love/https://beyondelittlereddot.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/08/ubud-20.jpgUbud-20https://beyondelittlereddot.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/08/ubud-19.jpgUbud-19https://beyondelittlereddot.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/08/ubud-14.jpgUbud-14https://beyondelittlereddot.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/08/ubud-13.jpgUbud-13https://beyondelittlereddot.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/08/ubud-10.jpgUbud-10https://beyondelittlereddot.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/08/ubud-9.jpgUbud-9https://beyondelittlereddot.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/08/ubud-7.jpgUbud-7https://beyondelittlereddot.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/08/ubud-6.jpgUbud-6We passed by this street market next to Ubud Market.https://beyondelittlereddot.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/08/ubud-5.jpgUbud-5https://beyondelittlereddot.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/08/ubud-4.jpgUbud-42016-09-01T20:07:35+00:00monthlyhttps://beyondelittlereddot.com/2016/08/05/road-trip-down-under/https://beyondelittlereddot.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/07/map12.jpgmap1https://beyondelittlereddot.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/07/map2.jpgmap2And if you think 1,000km is a lot. We had only traveled to a small part of Australia (the previous map is the area in red).https://beyondelittlereddot.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/07/albany3.jpgAlbanyMINOLTA DIGITAL CAMERAhttps://beyondelittlereddot.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/07/albany2.jpgAlbanyMINOLTA DIGITAL CAMERAhttps://beyondelittlereddot.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/07/albany1.jpgAlbanyMINOLTA DIGITAL CAMERAhttps://beyondelittlereddot.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/07/walpole2.jpgWalpoleWe got a decent house like this one to stay in for the night considering that it was a last minute booking.https://beyondelittlereddot.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/07/walpole1.jpgWalpoleOur lodging was walking distance to Walpole Inlet and it offers a nice morning view.https://beyondelittlereddot.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/07/valleyofgiants4.jpgValley of GiantsMINOLTA DIGITAL CAMERAhttps://beyondelittlereddot.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/07/valleyofgiants3.jpgValley of GiantsMINOLTA DIGITAL CAMERAhttps://beyondelittlereddot.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/07/valleyofgiants2.jpgValley of GiantsMINOLTA DIGITAL CAMERA2023-09-07T20:17:45+00:00monthlyhttps://beyondelittlereddot.com/2016/07/22/tree-top-walk/https://beyondelittlereddot.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/07/treetop33.jpgtreetop33https://beyondelittlereddot.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/07/treetop32.jpgtreetop32https://beyondelittlereddot.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/07/treetop31.jpgtreetop31Another reservoir and civilization in the distance.https://beyondelittlereddot.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/07/treetop30.jpgtreetop30https://beyondelittlereddot.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/07/treetop29.jpgtreetop29From the top of Jelutong Tower, you can see all around. https://beyondelittlereddot.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/07/treetop28.jpgtreetop28A glimpse of Jelutong Tower from the trail.https://beyondelittlereddot.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/07/treetop27.jpgtreetop27https://beyondelittlereddot.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/07/treetop26.jpgtreetop26After climbing stairs to the top of the hill, I look over the other side and there are even more stairs going down. It's going to be a long day.https://beyondelittlereddot.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/07/treetop25.jpgtreetop25https://beyondelittlereddot.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/07/treetop24.jpgtreetop242016-08-01T04:42:55+00:00monthlyhttps://beyondelittlereddot.com/2016/07/08/england-in-a-day/https://beyondelittlereddot.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/07/england22.jpgengland22We had to pass through the souvenir store to exit into the main street (but of course). You can various Shakespeare related stuff for sale. How about Star Wars in Shakespearean prose? https://beyondelittlereddot.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/06/england21.jpgengland21https://beyondelittlereddot.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/06/england20.jpgengland20https://beyondelittlereddot.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/06/england19.jpgengland19https://beyondelittlereddot.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/06/england18.jpgengland18https://beyondelittlereddot.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/06/england17.jpgengland17We went on a tour inside the house and got to see reenactments of how life was like in the 18th century. Actors in costume also explained and introduced Shakespearean phrases.https://beyondelittlereddot.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/06/england16.jpgengland16https://beyondelittlereddot.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/06/england15.jpgengland15https://beyondelittlereddot.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/06/england14.jpgengland14https://beyondelittlereddot.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/06/england13.jpgengland132016-07-08T08:18:47+00:00monthlyhttps://beyondelittlereddot.com/2016/04/01/hill-tribes-in-northern-thailand/https://beyondelittlereddot.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/03/img_0271.jpgIMG_0271https://beyondelittlereddot.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/03/img_0262.jpgIMG_0262https://beyondelittlereddot.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/03/img_0259.jpgIMG_0259https://beyondelittlereddot.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/03/img_0250.jpgIMG_0250https://beyondelittlereddot.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/03/img_0235.jpgIMG_0235https://beyondelittlereddot.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/03/img_0200.jpgIMG_0200https://beyondelittlereddot.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/03/img_0149.jpgIMG_0149https://beyondelittlereddot.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/03/img_0100.jpgIMG_0100https://beyondelittlereddot.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/03/img_0091.jpgIMG_0091https://beyondelittlereddot.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/03/img_0085.jpgIMG_00852016-07-06T14:40:03+00:00monthlyhttps://beyondelittlereddot.com/2016/06/22/streets-of-london/https://beyondelittlereddot.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/06/london38.jpglondon38Passed by this restaurant in Chinatown. I'm sure the food is great judging by the number of people in there, but we didn't come all the way here just to eat Singapore/Malaysian food.https://beyondelittlereddot.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/06/oystercard.jpgoystercardOyster Card.https://beyondelittlereddot.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/06/london37.jpglondon37Start of our lunch cruise along the River Thames. It takes around more than an hour where it cruises to the London and back to Tower Pier.https://beyondelittlereddot.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/06/london36.jpglondon36https://beyondelittlereddot.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/06/london35.jpglondon35An interesting and colourful house.https://beyondelittlereddot.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/06/london34.jpglondon34https://beyondelittlereddot.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/06/london33.jpglondon33Meet a dragon in the castle, how apt. On the topmost floor of the Tower is a modern art collection.https://beyondelittlereddot.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/06/london32.jpglondon32The personal armour of King Henry VIII. He always wanted everyone to know who had the biggest dick around.https://beyondelittlereddot.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/06/london31.jpglondon31An impressive collections of medieval amrour is on display in the Tower.https://beyondelittlereddot.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/06/london30.jpglondon30An ancient toilet. It's built on an overhang so that your waste drops outside the walls.2016-11-12T16:42:05+00:00monthlyhttps://beyondelittlereddot.com/2016/05/26/golden-circle/https://beyondelittlereddot.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/05/goldencircle20.jpggoldencircle20 Getting close and personal with a couple of the horses after the show.https://beyondelittlereddot.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/05/goldencircle19.jpggoldencircle19https://beyondelittlereddot.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/05/goldencircle18.jpggoldencircle18https://beyondelittlereddot.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/05/goldencircle17.jpggoldencircle17A very Instagram look when taking a photo of the outside through the stained glass.https://beyondelittlereddot.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/05/goldencircle16.jpggoldencircle16https://beyondelittlereddot.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/05/goldencircle15.jpggoldencircle15https://beyondelittlereddot.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/05/goldencircle14.jpggoldencircle14A very nice view of the mountains from Skálholt's lookout point.https://beyondelittlereddot.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/05/goldencircle13.jpggoldencircle13https://beyondelittlereddot.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/05/goldencircle12.jpggoldencircle12Many church buildings have stood here. Some were destroyed and then later rebuilt. The current church building was built in 1963 and is actually rather modern.2016-06-05T13:41:17+00:00monthlyhttps://beyondelittlereddot.com/2016/05/11/reykjavik-and-blue-lagoon/https://beyondelittlereddot.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/05/castlehouse3.jpgcastlehouse3The rather small but well equipped kitchen and the very utilitarian bathroom.https://beyondelittlereddot.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/05/castlehouse2.jpgcastlehouse2Our comfy home away from home for our stay in Iceland.https://beyondelittlereddot.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/05/castlehouse1.jpgcastlehouse1Our service apartment is the white building located behind the church. It's conveniently located and only 10 minutes walk to Reykjavik town center.https://beyondelittlereddot.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/04/whalewatching-4.jpgwhalewatching-4https://beyondelittlereddot.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/04/whalewatching-3.jpgwhalewatching-3We could see steam from the geothermal hot springs that give rise to Reykjavik's name. In Icelandic Reykjavik means Smoky Bay. https://beyondelittlereddot.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/04/whalewatching-2.jpgwhalewatching-2https://beyondelittlereddot.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/04/whalewatching-1.jpgwhalewatching-1https://beyondelittlereddot.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/04/whales-4.jpgwhales-4There a couple of real whale skeletons here. One hangs in the main entrance as you enter and the other is here above the bar. The ticket price includes tea/coffee so make sure you drink up.https://beyondelittlereddot.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/04/whales-3.jpgwhales-3They life size replicas of all the whales in Iceland. They are made from special foam and the texture and feel is exactly like a real whale.https://beyondelittlereddot.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/04/whales-2.jpgwhales-2Just past the Old Harbour is the Whale Museum. This road leas to the more industrial part of the harbour.2017-05-02T02:14:46+00:00monthlyhttps://beyondelittlereddot.com/2016/04/28/land-of-fire-and-ice/https://beyondelittlereddot.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/04/snaefellsness020.jpgSnaefellsness020A sculpture of the half-man, half-ogre Barður Snæfellsás made out of volcanic rocks.https://beyondelittlereddot.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/04/south_coast024.jpgSouth_Coast024Seen during our rest stop. This is an all terrain tour bus. It looks more like it should belong on a Mars mission.https://beyondelittlereddot.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/04/iceland-002.jpgIceland-002https://beyondelittlereddot.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/04/south_coast025.jpgSouth_Coast025https://beyondelittlereddot.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/04/snaefellsness019.jpgSnaefellsness019https://beyondelittlereddot.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/04/snaefellsness018.jpgSnaefellsness018https://beyondelittlereddot.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/04/iceland.jpgicelandhttps://beyondelittlereddot.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/04/snaefellsness017.jpgSnaefellsness017Kirkjufell with storm clouds coming up around it.https://beyondelittlereddot.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/04/snaefellsness016.jpgSnaefellsness016Riding Icelandic horses around Kirkjufell.https://beyondelittlereddot.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/04/snaefellsness015.jpgSnaefellsness0152017-02-25T02:58:08+00:00monthlyhttps://beyondelittlereddot.com/2016/04/14/yi-peng-sky-lantern-festival-2015/https://beyondelittlereddot.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/04/rapunzel.jpgrapunzelhttps://beyondelittlereddot.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/04/yipeng14.jpgyipeng14The surreal moment when thousands of sky lanterns are up in the air.https://beyondelittlereddot.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/01/wp-1453874952798.jpgwp-1453874952798.jpgAt the end of their meditationhttps://beyondelittlereddot.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/01/wp-1453874940223.jpgwp-1453874940223.jpghttps://beyondelittlereddot.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/01/wp-1453874921035.jpgwp-1453874921035.jpgThe novice monks now came in, each holding an oil lamp and praying.https://beyondelittlereddot.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/01/wp-1453874910317.jpgwp-1453874910317.jpgAfter preparing the grounds with lighted lamps, the monks enter again holding an oil lamp and praying.https://beyondelittlereddot.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/01/wp-1453874894049.jpgwp-1453874894049.jpgNovice monks go about lighting the oil lamps. There are like more than a hundred lamps. Seeing all of them lighted up gives a magical feel to the whole place.https://beyondelittlereddot.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/01/wp-1453874876365.jpgwp-1453874876365.jpgOn the eve of Loy Krathong, the almost full moon can be seen rising above the city.https://beyondelittlereddot.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/01/wp-1453874862488.jpgwp-1453874862488.jpghttps://beyondelittlereddot.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/01/yipeng20.jpgyipeng202016-06-30T17:21:23+00:00monthlyhttps://beyondelittlereddot.com/2016/03/18/the-white-temple/https://beyondelittlereddot.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/01/whitetemple14.jpgwhitetemple14https://beyondelittlereddot.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/01/whitetemple13.jpgwhitetemple13https://beyondelittlereddot.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/01/whitetemple12.jpgwhitetemple12https://beyondelittlereddot.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/01/whitetemple11.jpgwhitetemple11https://beyondelittlereddot.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/01/whitetemple10.jpgwhitetemple10The gold building which represents the body, and our worldly desire for material things. It's is also where the public toilets are located. So if you want to go to the toilet, look for the golden building.https://beyondelittlereddot.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/01/whitetemple9.jpgwhitetemple9White and gold. The temple grounds are crowded with visitors.https://beyondelittlereddot.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/01/whitetemple8.jpgwhitetemple8https://beyondelittlereddot.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/01/whitetemple7.jpgwhitetemple7https://beyondelittlereddot.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/01/whitetemple6.jpgwhitetemple6https://beyondelittlereddot.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/01/whitetemple5.jpgwhitetemple52016-03-19T05:03:48+00:00monthlyhttps://beyondelittlereddot.com/2016/03/12/solar-eclipse-2016/https://beyondelittlereddot.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/03/eclipse3.jpgeclipse3At around 90% eclipse at 8.23am.https://beyondelittlereddot.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/03/eclipse2.jpgeclipse2After about half an hour, the Sun was slowly but surely being covered.https://beyondelittlereddot.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/03/eclipse1.jpgeclipse1The Sun had just risen for not more than 10 minutes before the eclipse started.2016-03-28T00:57:48+00:00monthlyhttps://beyondelittlereddot.com/2016/03/02/muaythai-fight-club/https://beyondelittlereddot.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/01/muaythai11.jpgmuaythai11The last fight of the night, the heavy weight category and the most experienced fighters. The challenger was a New Zealander against the local Thai champion.https://beyondelittlereddot.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/01/muaythai10.jpgmuaythai10Yes, there will be blood and the New Zealander was bleeding most of it. He lost the fight by points.https://beyondelittlereddot.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/01/muaythai9.jpgmuaythai9That's a real brutal roundhouse kick, and the face of the referee tells it.https://beyondelittlereddot.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/01/muaythai8.jpgmuaythai8It was a brutal fight to say the least. They went the full 5 rounds.https://beyondelittlereddot.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/01/muaythai7.jpgmuaythai7Declaring the winner in one of the fights. A couple of fights were won by knock out, and others by points. https://beyondelittlereddot.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/01/muaythai6.jpgmuaythai6Most of the fighters were on the lean side. But they still pack a wallop.https://beyondelittlereddot.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/01/muaythai5.jpgmuaythai5After the kids fight, it was time for the adults. And they came in by weight category. Here, a fighter does the traditional prayer for victory before the start of the fight.https://beyondelittlereddot.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/01/muaythai4.jpgmuaythai4This ain't no playground fight. The boys were going at each other like pros.https://beyondelittlereddot.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/01/muaythai3.jpgmuaythai3The opponent looks just as young and kinda skinny too.https://beyondelittlereddot.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/01/muaythai2.jpgmuaythai2But he's only just a kid...2016-03-03T03:00:45+00:00monthlyhttps://beyondelittlereddot.com/2016/02/21/chiangmai-streets-2015/https://beyondelittlereddot.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/01/artehouse5.jpgartehouse5https://beyondelittlereddot.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/01/chiangmai21.jpgchiangmai21Senior monks waiting to bless devotees.https://beyondelittlereddot.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/01/chiangmai20.jpgchiangmai20Art on wheels.https://beyondelittlereddot.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/01/chiangmai19.jpgchiangmai19An open air classroom. It was a lively discussion between students and monk.https://beyondelittlereddot.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/01/chiangmai18.jpgchiangmai18The eye of the Naga shines bright.https://beyondelittlereddot.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/01/chiangmai17.jpgchiangmai17A shrine at Wat Chedi Luang.https://beyondelittlereddot.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/01/chiangmai16.jpgchiangmai16How innovative. Money changer and ATM on wheels.https://beyondelittlereddot.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/01/chiangmai15.jpgchiangmai15Gold detailing on the windows of Wat Chiang Man.https://beyondelittlereddot.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/01/chiangmai14.jpgchiangmai14A close up of the elephant statues.https://beyondelittlereddot.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/01/chiangmai13.jpgchiangmai13Wat Chiang Man with it's unique elephant stupa.2016-02-28T07:53:18+00:00monthlyhttps://beyondelittlereddot.com/2016/02/04/cave-temples-of-ipoh/https://beyondelittlereddot.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/01/sampohtong10.jpgsampohtong10Feeding the many Koi in the pond. Visitors can buy the fish food from the temple.https://beyondelittlereddot.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/01/sampohtong9.jpgsampohtong9There is a tortoise pond where visitors can feed the tortoises and turtles. Again you can buy the vegetables and food at the temple entrance.https://beyondelittlereddot.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/01/sampohtong8.jpgsampohtong8https://beyondelittlereddot.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/01/sampohtong7.jpgsampohtong7So what do we see at the end?https://beyondelittlereddot.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/01/sampohtong6.jpgsampohtong6https://beyondelittlereddot.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/01/sampohtong5.jpgsampohtong5https://beyondelittlereddot.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/01/sampohtong4.jpgsampohtong4https://beyondelittlereddot.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/01/sampohtong3.jpgsampohtong3https://beyondelittlereddot.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/01/sampohtong2.jpgsampohtong2https://beyondelittlereddot.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/01/sampohtong1.jpgsampohtong12016-02-14T05:49:40+00:00monthlyhttps://beyondelittlereddot.com/2016/01/21/one-day-in-penang/https://beyondelittlereddot.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/01/hop-on-hop-off.jpghop-on hop-offA scanned version of the Penang Hop-on Hop-off bus brochure. Go to their website to find out more information.https://beyondelittlereddot.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/01/northambeach.jpgnorthambeachhttps://beyondelittlereddot.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/01/kimberlyst2.jpgkimberlyst2https://beyondelittlereddot.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/01/kimberlyst1.jpgkimberlyst1If you like street food then Kimberly Street is the place for you. Nothing beats immersing yourself in local culture than eating local.https://beyondelittlereddot.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/01/georgetown14.jpggeorgetown14More artsy stuff like colourful umbrellas hanging above us.https://beyondelittlereddot.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/01/seafood.jpgseafoodThere are many seafood options along Gurney Drive.https://beyondelittlereddot.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/01/penanghill8.jpgpenanghill8https://beyondelittlereddot.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/01/penanghill7.jpgpenanghill7https://beyondelittlereddot.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/01/penanghill6.jpgpenanghill6https://beyondelittlereddot.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/01/penanghill5.jpgpenanghill52018-03-13T06:48:12+00:00monthlyhttps://beyondelittlereddot.com/2015/11/13/beijings-imperial-past/https://beyondelittlereddot.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/11/beijing17.jpgbeijing17I know the ancient Chinese were credited with inventing many things, but I'm not sure if the sundial is one of them.https://beyondelittlereddot.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/11/beijing16.jpgbeijing16Some of the halls contain thrones which were used by the emperor or the empress.https://beyondelittlereddot.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/11/beijing15.jpgbeijing15After passing through the front wall and gates, there are several large courtyards and halls which visitors have to pass through towards the back of the Palace.https://beyondelittlereddot.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/11/beijing14.jpgbeijing14The front wall from the inside of the Palace.https://beyondelittlereddot.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/11/beijing13.jpgbeijing13A sight that you probably won't see nowadays. Cars were slowly taking over the roads from bicycles back then.https://beyondelittlereddot.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/11/beijing12.jpgbeijing12The front wall of the Forbidden Palace facing Tiananmen Square.https://beyondelittlereddot.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/11/beijing11.jpgbeijing11See the 2 doorways in the wall? Foreigners had to go through 1 doorway and were charged a different entry price (higher). Chinese went through the other doorway and paid a small token sum.https://beyondelittlereddot.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/11/beijing10.jpgbeijing10The intricate designs of the roof ornaments.https://beyondelittlereddot.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/11/beijing09.jpgbeijing09The pagoda which is on top of Longevity Hill.https://beyondelittlereddot.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/11/beijing08.jpgbeijing08The 700m Long Corridor and a close up of the inlays and motifs on it's roof.2016-01-08T04:38:53+00:00monthlyhttps://beyondelittlereddot.com/2016/01/08/trekking-the-yellow-mountains-%e9%bb%84%e5%b1%b1/https://beyondelittlereddot.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/12/huangshan12.jpghuangshan12https://beyondelittlereddot.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/12/huangshan11.jpghuangshan11https://beyondelittlereddot.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/12/huangshan10.jpghuangshan10https://beyondelittlereddot.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/12/huangshan9.jpghuangshan9https://beyondelittlereddot.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/12/huangshan8.jpghuangshan8https://beyondelittlereddot.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/12/huangshan7.jpghuangshan7https://beyondelittlereddot.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/12/huangshan6.jpghuangshan6https://beyondelittlereddot.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/12/huangshan5.jpghuangshan5https://beyondelittlereddot.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/12/huangshan4.jpghuangshan4https://beyondelittlereddot.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/12/huangshan3.jpghuangshan32016-01-12T11:04:38+00:00monthlyhttps://beyondelittlereddot.com/2015/12/18/hutong-visit/https://beyondelittlereddot.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/11/ht10.jpgHT10https://beyondelittlereddot.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/11/ht9.jpgHT9https://beyondelittlereddot.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/11/ht8.jpgHT8https://beyondelittlereddot.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/11/ht7.jpgHT7https://beyondelittlereddot.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/11/ht6.jpgHT6https://beyondelittlereddot.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/11/ht5.jpgHT5https://beyondelittlereddot.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/11/ht4.jpgHT4https://beyondelittlereddot.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/11/ht3.jpgHT3https://beyondelittlereddot.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/11/ht2.jpgHT2https://beyondelittlereddot.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/11/ht1.jpgHT12016-01-05T01:43:06+00:00monthlyhttps://beyondelittlereddot.com/2015/11/27/great-wall-of-china-and-ming-tombs/https://beyondelittlereddot.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/10/mingtombs3.jpgmingtombs3More of the stone animal statues. The camels caught my eye since they only live in the deserts of western China and are not native to northern China.https://beyondelittlereddot.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/10/mingtombs2.jpgmingtombs2Named the Spirit Way, this 7km long road leads to the tombs. There are many statues of animals and warriors lining the 2 sides of the road.https://beyondelittlereddot.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/10/mingtombs1.jpgmingtombs1The main gate at the start of the road leading to the Ming Tombs.https://beyondelittlereddot.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/10/greatwall4.jpggreatwall4I just wonder where all these people are walking to?https://beyondelittlereddot.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/10/greatwall3.jpggreatwall3It's not everyday that you find nobody else on the Great Wall. Nowadays, there are hordes of tourists. https://beyondelittlereddot.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/10/greatwall2.jpggreatwall2I can't help but marvel at the incredulous work that was out into building it.https://beyondelittlereddot.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/10/greatwall1.jpggreatwall1My first view of the Great Wall. There were not many tourists at that time and the weather was superb. 2015-11-27T15:49:26+00:00monthlyhttps://beyondelittlereddot.com/2015/10/24/a-viennese-fall/https://beyondelittlereddot.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/07/vienna12.jpgvienna12Schönbrunn Palace.https://beyondelittlereddot.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/07/vienna11.jpgvienna11The park and gardens of Schonbrunn Palace.https://beyondelittlereddot.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/07/vienna10.jpgvienna10Next to the Parliament Building is Hofburg Palace and the former imperial palace. It is now the official residence of the President of Austria.https://beyondelittlereddot.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/07/vienna9.jpgvienna9The main hall and church organ of St Stephen's.https://beyondelittlereddot.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/07/vienna8.jpgvienna8A lot of details in the figures on top of the many imperial buildings.https://beyondelittlereddot.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/07/vienna7.jpgvienna7I was lucky to catch the setting sun light up the multi-colored roof of St Stephen's Cathedral. https://beyondelittlereddot.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/07/vienna6.jpgvienna6The imposing looking Austrian Parliament Building.https://beyondelittlereddot.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/07/vienna5.jpgvienna5Karlskirche (St Charles Church), built in the baroque style. The architecture of this church is rather unique.https://beyondelittlereddot.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/07/vienna4.jpgvienna4The Gloriette, a grand looking pavilion that is used as a dining hall or festival hall. There is an open air café there where visitors can eat and have a good view of Vienna.https://beyondelittlereddot.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/07/vienna3.jpgvienna3The wonderful autumn scenery in Vienna.2015-10-28T15:18:03+00:00monthlyhttps://beyondelittlereddot.com/2015/10/09/zurich/https://beyondelittlereddot.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/07/zurich5.jpgzurich5A quaint narrow and windy road that leads up to Lindenhof hill. The other church, Fraumünster, is a the bottom of the road.https://beyondelittlereddot.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/07/zurich4.jpgzurich4Grossmünster cathedral started its construction in 1100AD as a monastery.https://beyondelittlereddot.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/07/zurich3.jpgzurich3The other part of the Old Town with the Zurich University Library in the distance.https://beyondelittlereddot.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/07/zurich2.jpgzurich2Looking at Zurich's Old Town from the top of Lindehof hill. The main catherdral, Grossmünster, can be seen on the right.https://beyondelittlereddot.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/07/zurich1.jpgzurich1Night scene of Zurich and the Lake promenade.2015-10-13T07:57:01+00:00monthlyhttps://beyondelittlereddot.com/2015/09/26/bern/https://beyondelittlereddot.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/07/bern5.jpgbern5The main shopping street in Bern.https://beyondelittlereddot.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/07/bern4.jpgbern4The famous sight in Bern is the Zytglogge, or translated into english is 'Time Bell'.https://beyondelittlereddot.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/07/bern3.jpgbern3The Bern Münster, a cathedral built in the Gothic style. This is the main church in Bern.https://beyondelittlereddot.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/07/bern2.jpgbern2A view of Bern's Old Town along one of the bridges spanning the Aare River.https://beyondelittlereddot.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/07/bern1.jpgbern1Bears are heraldic emblem of the city and there is bear pit that houses the city's bears. 2015-10-07T07:29:13+00:00monthlyhttps://beyondelittlereddot.com/2015/09/12/neuchatel/2015-09-12T03:03:52+00:00monthlyhttps://beyondelittlereddot.com/2015/08/29/lorcano-in-a-day/https://beyondelittlereddot.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/07/img_0161.jpgIMG_0161The old narrow streets of Lorcano's Old Town.https://beyondelittlereddot.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/07/lorcano4.jpgLorcano4Although Lorcano is Italian, it does give me the old Spanish look with the palm trees and architecture.https://beyondelittlereddot.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/07/lorcano3.jpgLorcano3Getting ready for the Lorcano Film Festival 1997 in the Piazza Grande.https://beyondelittlereddot.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/07/lorcano2.jpgLorcano2Looking down on Lorcano town and the sanctuary of Madonna Del Sasso. https://beyondelittlereddot.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/07/lorcano1.jpgLorcano1Nice shadows from the columns at the Orselina church.2015-08-29T01:38:22+00:00monthlyhttps://beyondelittlereddot.com/2015/08/16/when-reality-bites/https://beyondelittlereddot.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/08/keep-calm-and-travel-on.pngkeep-calm-and-travel-on2015-08-16T12:47:02+00:00monthlyhttps://beyondelittlereddot.com/2015/08/14/thun/https://beyondelittlereddot.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/07/thun2.jpgThun2Thun Castle on a hill overlooking the town.https://beyondelittlereddot.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/07/thun1.jpgThun1The tower of the main church in Thun.2015-08-14T13:15:10+00:00monthlyhttps://beyondelittlereddot.com/2015/08/01/lucerne/https://beyondelittlereddot.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/07/neuchatel4.jpgNeuchatel4This is actually a hotel. It's called the Hôtel DuPeyrou. https://beyondelittlereddot.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/07/neuchatel3.jpgNeuchatel3A bridge leading into the Neuchâtel Castle.https://beyondelittlereddot.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/07/neuchatel2.jpgNeuchatel2The inside courtyard of the Collegiate Church.https://beyondelittlereddot.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/07/neuchatel1.jpgNeuchatel1The Collegiate Church which sits beside the main castle.https://beyondelittlereddot.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/07/img_0154.jpgIMG_0154If you see the castle overlooking Lucerne, that's actually a hotel.https://beyondelittlereddot.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/07/img_0152.jpgIMG_0152The Hofkirche.https://beyondelittlereddot.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/07/img_0151.jpgIMG_0151The old town of Lucerne with it's many decorated buildings.https://beyondelittlereddot.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/05/img_0159.jpgIMG_0159Synonymous with Lucerne is the Chapel Bridge, built in 1333. A fire destroyed most of the wooden bridge in 1993 and it was rebuilt a few months later.https://beyondelittlereddot.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/05/img_0157.jpgIMG_0157The other famous sight in Lucerne is the Dying Lion statue in a small park. It commemorates the massacred of hundreds of Swiss Guards during the French Revolution in 1792.https://beyondelittlereddot.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/05/img_0156.jpgIMG_0156Lake and mountains view.2015-08-04T01:25:11+00:00monthlyhttps://beyondelittlereddot.com/2015/07/25/niagara-falls/https://beyondelittlereddot.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/07/nf6.jpgNF6An impromptu rainbow right at the edge of the falls.https://beyondelittlereddot.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/07/nf5.jpgNF5Disposal ponchos are given to all, as you will get wet from the spray and mist.https://beyondelittlereddot.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/07/nf4.jpgNF4Feeling the power of the falls as we drew nearer to it.https://beyondelittlereddot.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/07/nf3.jpgNF3The Rainbow Bridges that crosses the Niagara River and joins the USA to Canada.https://beyondelittlereddot.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/07/nf2.jpgNF2The boats that bring tourists to the edge of the falls. The buildings and the far side are actually in Canada.https://beyondelittlereddot.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/07/nf1.jpgNF1The view of the Niagara Falls from the US side.2015-07-25T06:04:21+00:00monthlyhttps://beyondelittlereddot.com/2015/07/17/east-germany-eisenach-and-marksuhl/https://beyondelittlereddot.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/07/marksuhl7.jpgmarksuhl7My room in Marksuhl at the local inn. I got the 'penthouse room' which is basically the attic that had been turned into a small room. The bed was next to the slant of the roof.https://beyondelittlereddot.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/07/marksuhl6.jpgmarksuhl6More pastures on the other side of the road.https://beyondelittlereddot.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/07/marksuhl5.jpgmarksuhl5You can see the factory buildings in the distance. Right in front were pastures and cows.https://beyondelittlereddot.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/07/marksuhl4.jpgmarksuhl4That's Marksuhl village center and where my inn was. Exciting isn't it?https://beyondelittlereddot.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/07/marksuhl3.jpgmarksuhl3Overlooking the town of Eisenach from Wartburg Castle.https://beyondelittlereddot.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/07/marksuhl2.jpgmarksuhl2Wartburg Castle. It became a UNESCO Heritage site in 1999. https://beyondelittlereddot.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/07/marksuhl1.jpgmarksuhl1A statue of some unknown person in Eisenach. I have tried to Google this statue but cannot find any reference to it.2018-07-30T23:36:44+00:00monthlyhttps://beyondelittlereddot.com/2015/07/08/that-first-business-trip/https://beyondelittlereddot.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/07/tickets.jpgticketsTicket stubs from the Empire State Building and World Trade Center. https://beyondelittlereddot.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/07/ny-pano2.jpgNY-pano2And this is the view of lower Manhattan with it's distinctive skyline that is now forever changed.https://beyondelittlereddot.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/07/ny-pano1.jpgNY-pano1The view of the East River and Brooklyn in the background. The Chrysler Building can be seen on the bottom left corner.https://beyondelittlereddot.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/07/ny15.jpgNY15A helicopter view of the surrounding buildings.https://beyondelittlereddot.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/07/ny14.jpgNY14The twin towers of the World Trade Center.https://beyondelittlereddot.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/07/ny13.jpgNY13I could see Ellise Island and the Stature of Liberty in the distance.https://beyondelittlereddot.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/07/ny12.jpgNY12That's not a dirty window, but a map to show visitors the landmarks of New York.https://beyondelittlereddot.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/07/ny8.jpgNY8Ok, we finally found the Empire State Building. https://beyondelittlereddot.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/07/ny5.jpgNY5This is the Chrysler Building. We actually thought it was the Empire State Building and we entered lobby asking where the lift to the observatory was. The guard politely told us that we were in the wrong building and pointed us down the street to where we could find our way to the Empire State Building.https://beyondelittlereddot.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/07/ny4.jpgNY4The hotel's carpark was all covered in snow after the snowfall overnight.2015-07-09T14:56:03+00:00monthlyhttps://beyondelittlereddot.com/2015/04/25/cruising-the-canals-of-amsterdam/https://beyondelittlereddot.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/05/img_0314.jpgIMG_0314Classic Amsterdam streets and canals.https://beyondelittlereddot.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/05/img_0309.jpgIMG_0309One of the many canal cruise boats that you can book to travel the canals in comfort.https://beyondelittlereddot.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/05/img_0308.jpgIMG_0308Of course not forgetting the famous Red Light district in Amsterdam.https://beyondelittlereddot.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/05/img_0302.jpgIMG_0302Cantilever bridges like this are pretty common where roads meet canals.https://beyondelittlereddot.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/05/img_0301.jpgIMG_0301Look out for the unique old buildings which look pretty unsafe to me.https://beyondelittlereddot.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/05/img_0299.jpgIMG_0299This looks somewhat similar to a certain seafood restaurant in Hong Kong. I guess this is the Dutch version.https://beyondelittlereddot.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/05/img_0298.jpgIMG_0298Passing by a cruise liner in the port area.https://beyondelittlereddot.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/05/img_0290.jpgIMG_0290The area around the main train station, with museums and art galleries.2015-07-22T07:27:47+00:00monthlyhttps://beyondelittlereddot.com/2015/04/25/hiking-the-southern-ridges/https://beyondelittlereddot.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/04/map.jpgMapHere is map view of the route. It's roughly 7-8km but runs up and downhill. https://beyondelittlereddot.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/05/img_0055.jpgIMG_0055The Forest Walk goes uphill if you going towards Telok Blangah Hill.https://beyondelittlereddot.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/05/img_0053.jpgIMG_0053A greater racket-tailed drongo, one of the more exotic looking birds here.https://beyondelittlereddot.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/05/img_0048.jpgIMG_0048A crimson sunbird. Although this is national bird of Singapore, it is not as commonly seen as the other sunbirds.https://beyondelittlereddot.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/05/img_0035.jpgIMG_0035A laughing thrush. You can hear them calling which sounds like laughing.https://beyondelittlereddot.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/05/img_0019.jpgIMG_0019A pink necked green pigeon feasting on berries on the tree tops. I took this photo from the Forest Walk platform.https://beyondelittlereddot.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/05/20140501_190904.jpg20140501_190904Enjoying the sunset at Vivocity after completing the hike.https://beyondelittlereddot.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/05/20140501_181231.jpg20140501_181231The sign that marks the end, or start of Marang Trail depending on which way you are going.https://beyondelittlereddot.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/05/20140501_175929-1.jpg20140501_175929 (1)Panoramic view from the Jewelbox.https://beyondelittlereddot.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/05/20140501_175554.jpg20140501_175554As you climb up Mt. Faber, you can see the HDB blocks of Telok Blangah estate.2015-06-19T08:19:03+00:00monthlyhttps://beyondelittlereddot.com/2015/06/01/temple-hopping-bali/https://beyondelittlereddot.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/05/uluwatu011.jpgUluwatu011And the day ends in fire.https://beyondelittlereddot.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/05/uluwatu008.jpgUluwatu008A classic Balinese shot I must say.https://beyondelittlereddot.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/05/uluwatu007.jpgUluwatu007The sun was finally setting. Beautiful sight!https://beyondelittlereddot.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/05/uluwatu006.jpgUluwatu006As the sun set, the cliffs started taking on an orange glow.https://beyondelittlereddot.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/05/uluwatu004.jpgUluwatu004More tourists risking their lives taking selfiies by the cliff edge.https://beyondelittlereddot.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/05/uluwatu003.jpgUluwatu003Impressive sight of the temple built along the cliff edge.https://beyondelittlereddot.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/05/uluwatu002.jpgUluwatu002Another view of more cliffs and the amphi-theatre that houses the Kecek Dance.https://beyondelittlereddot.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/05/uluwatu001.jpgUluwatu001The spectacular and imposing cliffs of Uluwatu.https://beyondelittlereddot.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/05/tanah_lot009.jpgTanah_Lot009It was low tide when I arrived and visitors were climbing all over the place.https://beyondelittlereddot.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/05/tanah_lot008.jpgTanah_Lot008More Chinese tourists trying to get a selfie with the waves breaking behind them.2015-07-10T02:27:07+00:00monthlyhttps://beyondelittlereddot.com/2015/03/14/time-travel-to-the-cultural-revolution-jiayang-%e5%98%89%e9%98%b3-bajiaogou-%e8%8a%ad%e7%84%a6%e6%b2%9f/2016-01-05T01:47:23+00:00monthlyhttps://beyondelittlereddot.com/2015/05/26/roman-times-in-regensburg/https://beyondelittlereddot.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/05/img_0121.jpgIMG_0121View of the Danube Riverhttps://beyondelittlereddot.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/05/img_0120.jpgIMG_0120Walking across the old stone bridge. If there were no cars in the picture, you might think you that you went back in time to the Roman Empire.https://beyondelittlereddot.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/05/img_0119.jpgIMG_0119A closer look at the main Church or Dom as it is known.https://beyondelittlereddot.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/05/img_0118.jpgIMG_0118The old medieval town centre of Regensburg with it's Roman stone bridge.https://beyondelittlereddot.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/05/img_0106.jpgIMG_0106The Dom, built in 1634AD.https://beyondelittlereddot.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/05/img_0061.jpgIMG_0061You do get a wonderful view of the Danube River and surrounding countryside from the top of the Walhalla.https://beyondelittlereddot.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/05/img_0059.jpgIMG_0059Standing amongst the massive Greek columns.https://beyondelittlereddot.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/05/img_0058.jpgIMG_0058There hundreds of marble busts of famous German personalities inside.https://beyondelittlereddot.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/05/img_0057.jpgIMG_0057Suddenly I felt like I was in ancient Greece.2015-05-26T04:58:56+00:00monthlyhttps://beyondelittlereddot.com/2015/04/25/the-rhine-falls/https://beyondelittlereddot.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/05/img_0185.jpgIMG_0185The train passes by at full speed and quite close to pedestrians. And the train drivers like to blast their horn as they pass by. A real shocker if you don't see the train coming because it's coming from your back.https://beyondelittlereddot.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/05/img_0181.jpgIMG_0181The rail bridge crossing the river. There is a castle that on the right bank of the river that you can visit.https://beyondelittlereddot.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/05/img_0180.jpgIMG_0180View from the right bank. The boat has a small space to berth at the rock otherwise it gets swept away by the waterfall.https://beyondelittlereddot.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/05/img_0174.jpgIMG_0174Braving the mist and getting wet is part of the thrill.https://beyondelittlereddot.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/05/img_0173.jpgIMG_0173The Rhine Falls is not like any of the mega waterfalls in the world, but is incredible in its own small way.https://beyondelittlereddot.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/05/img_0172.jpgIMG_0172More views of the rock. It's a real squeeze on that small rock.https://beyondelittlereddot.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/05/img_0116.jpgIMG_0116Summer would be best time to view the full power of the waterfall.https://beyondelittlereddot.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/05/img_0111.jpgIMG_0111View from the left bank.https://beyondelittlereddot.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/05/img_0105.jpgIMG_0105Feeding Bambi before he gets turned into deer steaks.https://beyondelittlereddot.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/05/img_0104.jpgIMG_0104There is a small deer farm or zoo beside the falls. 2015-05-16T05:03:58+00:00monthlyhttps://beyondelittlereddot.com/2014/05/22/land-of-the-thunder-dragon/2015-05-13T11:49:14+00:00monthlyhttps://beyondelittlereddot.com/2015/04/25/milan-day-trip/https://beyondelittlereddot.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/04/img_0052.jpgIMG_0052It's incredible how the intricate designs have been carved into the structure.https://beyondelittlereddot.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/04/img_0050.jpgIMG_0050The intricacies of the Gothic spires are also wonderful to look at.https://beyondelittlereddot.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/04/img_0049.jpgIMG_0049Going up the roof of The Duomo for a great view of the city.https://beyondelittlereddot.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/04/img_0048.jpgIMG_0048Shopping time. https://beyondelittlereddot.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/04/img_0047.jpgIMG_0047The Galleria Vittorio Emanuele shopping arcade, also next to Duomo Square.https://beyondelittlereddot.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/04/img_0046.jpgIMG_0046Duomo Square which is named after the church.https://beyondelittlereddot.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/04/img_0045.jpgIMG_0045The Duomo is the centre of Milan and the main attraction for visitors.https://beyondelittlereddot.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/04/img_0043.jpgIMG_0043The main hall of the Duomo.https://beyondelittlereddot.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/04/img_0041.jpgIMG_0041The Castello Sforzesco. It is not far from Duomo Square and can beeasily reached by walking.https://beyondelittlereddot.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/04/img_0039.jpgIMG_0039The design of the castle is very different from the Gothic style of the Duomo.2015-05-03T14:13:26+00:00monthlyhttps://beyondelittlereddot.com/2015/04/22/jungfraujoch/https://beyondelittlereddot.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/04/img_0143.jpgIMG_0143The Sphinx Observatory.https://beyondelittlereddot.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/04/img_0142.jpgIMG_0142Is it Junfrau, Eiger or Monch? I cannot remember.https://beyondelittlereddot.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/04/img_0140.jpgIMG_0140The view from the restaurant at Jungfraujoch.https://beyondelittlereddot.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/04/img_0134.jpgIMG_0134Jungfrau, Eiger and Monch forms a massive mountain wall. The sight is really impressive.https://beyondelittlereddot.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/04/img_0130.jpgIMG_0130From the windows in the tunnel wall, I could see the glaciers flowing into the valley below.https://beyondelittlereddot.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/04/img_0127.jpgIMG_0127Waterfalls from melting snow fall on to the village of Lauterbrunnen.https://beyondelittlereddot.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/04/img_0125.jpgIMG_0125A bird's eye view of Lauterbrunnen as I took the train higher to Wengen. https://beyondelittlereddot.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/04/img_0078.jpgIMG_0078Looking at Jungfrau, Eiger and Monch from the village of Kleine Scheidegg. From here the Jungfrau Railway climbs through a tunnel cut into the mountains.https://beyondelittlereddot.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/04/img_0026.jpgIMG_0026Some rich tourists taking a helicopter up and skiing down. https://beyondelittlereddot.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/04/img_0023.jpgIMG_0023Just before entering the tunnel I could see the valley with the villages below.2015-05-17T16:00:50+00:00monthlyhttps://beyondelittlereddot.com/2015/04/10/volendam-and-marken-island/https://beyondelittlereddot.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/03/img_0305.jpgIMG_0305Over the years, the residents built dams to prevent floods from the sea. You can see here that the sea level is higher than the land that the houses are built on.https://beyondelittlereddot.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/03/img_0304.jpgIMG_0304The houses of Marken.https://beyondelittlereddot.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/03/img_0258.jpgIMG_0258Even the residences are built in the same traditional way.https://beyondelittlereddot.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/03/img_0256.jpgIMG_0256Oh look! A Lego house.https://beyondelittlereddot.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/03/img_0255.jpgIMG_0255The fishing village of Volendam with its quaint wooden buildings. https://beyondelittlereddot.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/03/img_0254.jpgIMG_0254Entering Marken Island's harbor. It was so foggy that I couldn't see what's ahead.https://beyondelittlereddot.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/03/img_0253.jpgIMG_0253There are many old sailing ships along the harbor to remind you of Volendam's past as a fishing port.https://beyondelittlereddot.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/03/img_0250.jpgIMG_0250Finally the boat stopped at Marken Island. https://beyondelittlereddot.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/03/img_0247.jpgIMG_0247Grandma in traditional Dutch dress.2015-04-10T14:04:30+00:00monthlyhttps://beyondelittlereddot.com/2015/03/31/bird-watching-in-ubud-bali/https://beyondelittlereddot.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/03/javan_kingfisher.jpgjavan_kingfisherThe Javan Kingfisher. I couldn't get close to it, since it would fly off once it saw me approaching within 50m of it.https://beyondelittlereddot.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/03/monitor_lizard.jpgmonitor_lizardCan you spot the monitor lizard basking at the top of the tree? Well, this photo was taken at 400mm x 1.6 crop factor for a total of 640mm zoom. Based on our normal eye sight we wouldn't be able to spot this at almost 100m away. But Su could still point it out to us.https://beyondelittlereddot.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/03/insects2.jpginsects2More creepy crawlies.https://beyondelittlereddot.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/03/insects1.jpginsects1Other types of insects are not missed out.https://beyondelittlereddot.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/03/img-20150215-wa0003.jpgIMG-20150215-WA0003Catching a dragonfly with your hands.https://beyondelittlereddot.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/03/dragonflies.jpgdragonfliesThere were many dragonflies of various colours and species.https://beyondelittlereddot.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/03/butterflies.jpgButterfliesIf you are a butterfly lover, then this would be really your lucky day.https://beyondelittlereddot.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/03/bird_walk045.jpgBird_walk045A wasps hive on a tree above our heads. The wasps were the size of my thumb.https://beyondelittlereddot.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/03/bird_walk042.jpgBird_walk042Motorcycles are the main form of transport for getting in and out of the padi fields.https://beyondelittlereddot.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/03/bird_walk041.jpgBird_walk041The shedded skin of a rice field snake.2018-03-13T06:49:56+00:00monthlyhttps://beyondelittlereddot.com/2014/07/01/chengdu-and-leshan-2013/2015-03-12T11:24:07+00:00monthlyhttps://beyondelittlereddot.com/2015/03/06/climbing-an-active-volcano-in-bali/https://beyondelittlereddot.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/03/img_0074.jpgIMG_0074There is also a cave with a shrine where the locals would come to pray.https://beyondelittlereddot.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/02/mt_batur027.jpgMt_Batur027As we reached the base of Mt Batur once again, we could now see the volcano in the daylight and without mist.https://beyondelittlereddot.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/02/mt_batur026.jpgMt_Batur026The children were playing while their parents did the farming.https://beyondelittlereddot.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/02/mt_batur024.jpgMt_Batur024Due to the volcanic soil, the region is fertile and ideal for farming. We passed by chili, tomatos and pepper plantations.https://beyondelittlereddot.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/02/mt_batur023.jpgMt_Batur023The route down revealed a wonderful scenery of the cauldera and Lake Batur.https://beyondelittlereddot.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/02/mt_batur022.jpgMt_Batur022Going down. We descended by a different route. It is less steep but longer in distance.https://beyondelittlereddot.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/02/mt_batur021.jpgMt_Batur021The true summit of Mt Batur. We didn't climb it as it was foggy and our guide felt that it was too dangerous due to the much steeper slope and loose ground.https://beyondelittlereddot.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/02/mt_batur019.jpgMt_Batur019The marker that everyone takes a photo with to show our accomplishment of conquering Mt Batur.https://beyondelittlereddot.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/02/mt_batur018.jpgMt_Batur018The edge of the crater. Mist was hiding the bottom of the crater from view.https://beyondelittlereddot.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/02/mt_batur017.jpgMt_Batur017Steam can be seen escaping from fissures around the crater.2015-03-06T15:03:49+00:00monthlyhttps://beyondelittlereddot.com/2015/02/25/a-bridge-too-far-arnhem/https://beyondelittlereddot.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/02/windmill.jpgwindmillArnhem is a good place to see original windmills which date back hundreds of years old.https://beyondelittlereddot.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/02/img_0280.jpgIMG_0280I checked into my hotel, a small one somewhere near the town centre. The lift was really tiny. It could only fit 1 person with luggage and you had to open the door manually. There was no inner door and you could see the wall slide past you as the lift moved up and down.https://beyondelittlereddot.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/02/img_0279.jpgIMG_0279The small square near my hotel. A Chinese restaurant and Heineken was all I could see.https://beyondelittlereddot.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/02/img_0278.jpgIMG_0278I could also see the famous bridge from WW2 history.https://beyondelittlereddot.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/02/img_0277.jpgIMG_0277After climbing to the top of the tower you can see most of Arnhem. Here is the city church.https://beyondelittlereddot.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/02/img_0274.jpgIMG_0274The most prominent building in Arnhem. It used to be a church but is used a museum of sorts and observatory tower.https://beyondelittlereddot.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/02/img_0273.jpgIMG_0273Another view of the bridge from the river. It is now called the John Frost Bridge and is actually the third incarnation of the famous bridge. The original bridge was destroyed and rebuilt twice in WW2.https://beyondelittlereddot.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/02/img_0201.jpgIMG_0201A brick kiln nearby the vendor's factory.https://beyondelittlereddot.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/02/img_0200.jpgIMG_0200Dutch humor in their signs.https://beyondelittlereddot.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/02/img_0199.jpgIMG_0199The courtyard of Doornenburg Castle. It's free to enter the courtyard but you have to pay to go on a guided tour of the inside of the keep.2015-02-24T17:09:28+00:00monthlyhttps://beyondelittlereddot.com/2015/02/12/season-of-spring/https://beyondelittlereddot.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/01/wuxi8.jpgwuxi8The start point of Hangzhou Bay bridge. I didn't take anymore photos of it and the bus didn't stop. But its a boring 45 minute drive.https://beyondelittlereddot.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/01/wuxi7.jpgwuxi7After around half an hour of photo taking I walked back to meet colleagues. https://beyondelittlereddot.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/01/wuxi6.jpgwuxi6Something that you don't see in the sunny tropics.https://beyondelittlereddot.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/01/wuxi5.jpgwuxi5Someone told me these are Chinese cherry trees as their flowers are white. The Japanese Sakura are pink in colour.https://beyondelittlereddot.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/01/wuxi4.jpgwuxi4No leaves, just small pale flowers.https://beyondelittlereddot.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/01/wuxi3.jpgwuxi3I reached the small park where the cherry trees were. Someone else was already there to admire the flowers.https://beyondelittlereddot.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/01/wuxi2.jpgwuxi2I had to walk through the compound of Millennium Corthorne Hotel. There were a couple of cherry trees overhanging a small pond.2015-02-12T12:26:58+00:00monthlyhttps://beyondelittlereddot.com/2015/02/07/hangzhou-bay-bridge/https://beyondelittlereddot.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/02/screenshot-2015-01-29-21-43-24.pngScreenshot 2015-01-29 21.43.24View from Google Maps showing the bridge's span.2015-02-06T03:38:21+00:00monthlyhttps://beyondelittlereddot.com/2015/01/31/on-a-little-street-in-malacca/https://beyondelittlereddot.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/01/melaka16.jpgmelaka16It gets very crowded and you are jostling with people back to back. Watch out for pickpockets and thieves.https://beyondelittlereddot.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/01/melaka15.jpgmelaka15You will see many decorated trishaws offering rides to tourists. It costs RM25 per trip.https://beyondelittlereddot.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/01/melaka14.jpgmelaka14Cat in a box.https://beyondelittlereddot.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/01/melaka13.jpgmelaka13You can shop from day till night.https://beyondelittlereddot.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/01/melaka12.jpgmelaka12I met this guy who was sitting there and playing his guitar. He's a Canadian student who is waiting to enter university. He worked for 1 year to save up for a 6 months holiday in South East Asia before starting school. Best of luck mate!https://beyondelittlereddot.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/01/melaka11.jpgmelaka11My dinner place. This place is off the main street.https://beyondelittlereddot.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/01/melaka10.jpgmelaka10Chinese wooden clogs. I doubt anyone wears them now. People mainly buy them as decorations.https://beyondelittlereddot.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/01/melaka9.jpgmelaka9A restaurant and pub with hidden courtyard just off the main thoroughfare. I didn't try this place, but I would on the next visit.https://beyondelittlereddot.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/01/melaka8.jpgmelaka8There are many street stalls selling all kinds of knick knacks.https://beyondelittlereddot.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/01/melaka7.jpgmelaka7And now I'm at the start of Jonker Street.2015-01-29T07:40:18+00:00monthlyhttps://beyondelittlereddot.com/2015/01/24/the-misadventures-of-a-business-traveler/https://beyondelittlereddot.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/01/imag0011.jpgIMAG0011That's my Thai Sales Manager then. He's not covering his because I took the photo but he's slapping his forehead as in "I can't believe this is happening". The motorbike accident victim is lying on the bed at the end of the ward.2015-01-28T08:07:17+00:00monthlyhttps://beyondelittlereddot.com/2015/01/19/zhouzhuang-water-village-kunshan/2015-01-19T05:28:29+00:00monthlyhttps://beyondelittlereddot.com/2015/01/10/cameron-highlands/2015-01-24T20:45:42+00:00monthlyhttps://beyondelittlereddot.com/2015/01/03/lantau-island-hong-kong/2015-01-05T02:52:13+00:00monthlyhttps://beyondelittlereddot.com/2014/12/07/sai-kung-%e8%a5%bf%e8%b2%a2-hong-kong/2014-12-20T03:43:08+00:00monthlyhttps://beyondelittlereddot.com/2014/12/13/macau-2011/2014-12-20T03:42:40+00:00monthlyhttps://beyondelittlereddot.com/2014/12/20/nami-island-south-korea/2014-12-20T00:57:45+00:00monthlyhttps://beyondelittlereddot.com/2014/11/30/chiangmai-2004-and-2013/2014-11-30T06:47:35+00:00monthlyhttps://beyondelittlereddot.com/2014/11/22/whale-watching-in-augusta-wa/2014-11-29T01:15:05+00:00monthlyhttps://beyondelittlereddot.com/2014/11/16/salzburg-in-mono/2014-11-15T17:04:09+00:00monthlyhttps://beyondelittlereddot.com/2014/11/07/narita/2014-11-07T14:47:40+00:00monthlyhttps://beyondelittlereddot.com/2014/11/01/pulau-ubin/2014-11-01T01:59:20+00:00monthlyhttps://beyondelittlereddot.com/2014/10/18/koh-samui/2014-10-18T02:05:26+00:00monthlyhttps://beyondelittlereddot.com/2014/10/09/night-of-the-blood-moon/2014-10-09T05:40:20+00:00monthlyhttps://beyondelittlereddot.com/2014/10/04/venice/2014-10-28T04:56:43+00:00monthlyhttps://beyondelittlereddot.com/2014/09/27/the-bund-shanghai-a-blast-from-the-past/2014-09-27T01:01:28+00:00monthlyhttps://beyondelittlereddot.com/2014/09/21/f1-weekend-again/2014-09-21T15:40:02+00:00monthlyhttps://beyondelittlereddot.com/2014/09/19/zermatt/2018-05-09T09:26:28+00:00monthlyhttps://beyondelittlereddot.com/2014/09/13/neuschwanstein-castle/2014-09-13T00:20:11+00:00monthlyhttps://beyondelittlereddot.com/2014/07/28/turkey-tour-istanbul-ankara-bursa-cappadocia-pumakkale-kusadasi-2009/2014-09-08T09:11:21+00:00monthlyhttps://beyondelittlereddot.com/2014/09/08/liuhe-night-market-%e5%85%ad%e5%90%88%e5%a4%9c%e5%b8%82-kaoshiung/2014-09-07T16:46:07+00:00monthlyhttps://beyondelittlereddot.com/2014/09/03/qinghai-lake/2014-09-03T02:23:41+00:00monthlyhttps://beyondelittlereddot.com/2014/08/20/green-corridor-former-ktm-railway-tracks/2014-08-20T14:58:14+00:00monthlyhttps://beyondelittlereddot.com/2014/07/21/egypt-tour-luxor-cairo-aswan-edfu-alexandria-2011/2014-07-25T09:44:43+00:00monthlyhttps://beyondelittlereddot.com/2014/07/15/siem-reap-and-phnom-penh-2009/2017-08-15T08:27:02+00:00monthlyhttps://beyondelittlereddot.com/2014/07/09/hanoi-halong-bay-and-perfume-pagoda-2011/2014-07-14T00:45:40+00:00monthlyhttps://beyondelittlereddot.com/2014/07/04/golfing-in-japan-first-impressions/2014-07-10T02:05:36+00:00monthlyhttps://beyondelittlereddot.com/2014/06/26/immigration-hell/https://beyondelittlereddot.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/06/hk-immigration.jpgHK immigrationThis is the start point after clearing Chinese immigration. There is no queue at this point, everyone is just being pushed forward and funneled into a single line. The Hong Kong immigration counters are right at the end of the room. It took 3 hrs just to cover the distance.2014-06-26T01:41:52+00:00monthlyhttps://beyondelittlereddot.com/2014/06/23/watch-the-birdie/https://beyondelittlereddot.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/06/woodpecker1.jpgwoodpecker1Where you find the male, there is always the female woodpecker. The female doesn't have the red feathers on the head.https://beyondelittlereddot.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/06/camera.jpgcameraMy weapon of choice for shooting birds. I sometimes use a monopod for added support. I find that tripods are too bulky when you are moving around trying to get a good shot.https://beyondelittlereddot.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/06/woodpecker.jpgwoodpeckerMale common flameback woodpecker at Ulu Pandan park connector.https://beyondelittlereddot.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/06/sunbird2.jpgsunbird2Olive backed sunbird.https://beyondelittlereddot.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/06/sunbird3.jpgsunbird3Posing with the Heliconia plant.https://beyondelittlereddot.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/06/sunbird1.jpgsunbird1Brown throated sunbird at Singapore Botanic Garden.https://beyondelittlereddot.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/06/striatedheron.jpgstriatedheronCommonly seen in our canals is the striated heron. https://beyondelittlereddot.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/06/seaeagle.jpgseaeagleA white bellied sea eagle scratching that itch while flying.https://beyondelittlereddot.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/06/oriole.jpgorioleAlso very common around HDB estates is the black-nape oriole.https://beyondelittlereddot.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/06/monitor2.jpgmonitor2Ain't I handsome?2014-06-23T02:25:29+00:00monthlyhttps://beyondelittlereddot.com/2014/06/20/the-top-2/https://beyondelittlereddot.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/06/tripadvisor-top-2.pngTripadvisor top 2%2014-06-20T03:14:39+00:00monthlyhttps://beyondelittlereddot.com/2014/05/22/a-journey-of-a/2014-06-19T06:31:45+00:00monthlyhttps://beyondelittlereddot.com/2014/06/19/ayutthaya-2012/https://beyondelittlereddot.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/06/img_0131.jpgIMG_0131The last stop was Wat Chai Wattanaram, located by the banks of the Chao Phraya River. We couldn't go in as the temple was closed for reconstruction after the flood. The brownish stains on the lower portion of the temple shows the flood levels. It must have been more than 5m high!https://beyondelittlereddot.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/06/img_0128.jpgIMG_0128A view of the Chao Phraya River that runs just behind Wat Chai Wattanaram. The level of water has already gone down to normal.https://beyondelittlereddot.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/06/img_0118.jpgIMG_0118All that remains of the temple is the reclining Buddha. At 42m long and 8m high, it's really one of the largest I've seen.https://beyondelittlereddot.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/06/img_0115.jpgIMG_0115A huge reclining Buddha in the open at Wat Lokkayasutharam.https://beyondelittlereddot.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/06/img_0113.jpgIMG_0113A large golden Buddha sits inside.https://beyondelittlereddot.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/06/img_0112.jpgIMG_0112Wiharn Phra Mongkol Bophit.https://beyondelittlereddot.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/06/img_0106.jpgIMG_0106A brief respite from the midday heat under the shade of banyan trees.https://beyondelittlereddot.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/06/img_0104.jpgIMG_0104A lone cleaner sweeping the dried leaves.https://beyondelittlereddot.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/06/img_0099.jpgIMG_0099Wat Ratchaburana with its distinctive Khmer style design. The roof in front had collapsed long ago leaving only the walls standing.https://beyondelittlereddot.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/06/img_0094.jpgIMG_0094Numerous stupas line the ruins.2014-06-19T01:13:27+00:00monthlyhttps://beyondelittlereddot.com/2014/06/17/pimp-my-bus/https://beyondelittlereddot.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/06/bus2.jpgbus2There's enough lights to brighten up any night.https://beyondelittlereddot.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/06/bus1.jpgbus1With 4 woofers and tweeters, you can hear him from a mile away.2014-06-17T03:39:33+00:00monthlyhttps://beyondelittlereddot.com/2014/06/13/the-great-flood-of-thailand-2011/https://beyondelittlereddot.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/06/pb300051.jpgOLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERAWe passed by one of the factories located on lower ground. The water basically flooded one and a half floors.https://beyondelittlereddot.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/06/pc010079.jpgOLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERAAfter the survey was completed, we drove to the Honda factory. You can see some of the cars that didn't make it to safety.https://beyondelittlereddot.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/06/pc010074.jpgOLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERAWhere is the ATM? Either it got carried away by the flood, or someone stole it.https://beyondelittlereddot.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/06/pc010075.jpgOLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERAThe road became impassable except to larger vehicles like trucks and buses.https://beyondelittlereddot.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/06/pc010070.jpgOLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERAKeeping your motorcycles dry. But I wonder how they got the bikes up there?https://beyondelittlereddot.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/06/pc010064.jpgOLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERAThe factory had no power and we were stumbling around in the dark looking out for poisonous snakes and crocodiles hiding in the nooks and crannies, while surveying the damaged equipment.https://beyondelittlereddot.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/06/pc010068.jpgOLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERAThis factory was submerged for more than 3 months. The water level here is more than 2m.https://beyondelittlereddot.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/06/pc010058.jpgOLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERAWe had to walk in since our car couldn't make it through. I could see fish swimming in the water that was flooding the road.https://beyondelittlereddot.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/06/pc010055.jpgOLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERAAbandoned inventory from factories was dumped everywhere.https://beyondelittlereddot.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/06/pb300046.jpgOLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERAThat's me with the water mark on the wall showing the highest level of flooding here. It's around 2m high and this picture was taken on raised ground.2014-06-13T17:10:00+00:00monthlyhttps://beyondelittlereddot.com/2014/06/11/tokyo-to-kyoto-2013/https://beyondelittlereddot.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/06/tokyo036.jpgTokyo036The shopping street. Enough to satisfy the shopaholics in our group.https://beyondelittlereddot.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/06/tokyo022.jpgTokyo022A short walk into the temple grounds.https://beyondelittlereddot.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/06/tokyo021.jpgTokyo021Someone put a fortune cat at the gate to the temple.https://beyondelittlereddot.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/06/tokyo020.jpgTokyo020We decided to come to Asakusa district with the Senoji Temple. It's easy to come here by subway.https://beyondelittlereddot.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/06/tokyo019.jpgTokyo019The cat wasn't too pleased, as it to squat on a small ledge.https://beyondelittlereddot.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/06/kyoto118.jpgKyoto118We took a walk around the temple gardens. It was just simply too hot and crowded to stay for long.https://beyondelittlereddot.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/06/kyoto116.jpgKyoto116These cranes were standing so still I thought they were just statues.https://beyondelittlereddot.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/06/kyoto109.jpgKyoto109The Golden Pavilion as it is called. The top 2 floors are covered in gold leaf. Of course nobody is allowed to touch the building.https://beyondelittlereddot.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/06/kyoto102.jpgKyoto102You have the usual handicrafts shops, restaurants, and also photo studios where you can dress in kimonos.https://beyondelittlereddot.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/06/kyoto101.jpgKyoto101The sun setting over Kyoto.2014-06-11T04:20:17+00:00monthlyhttps://beyondelittlereddot.com/about/2017-06-03T13:01:24+00:00weekly0.6https://beyondelittlereddot.com/2014/05/30/dubai-2012/https://beyondelittlereddot.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/05/dubai_atlantis3.jpgdubai_atlantis3It's another aquarium theme park.https://beyondelittlereddot.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/05/dubai_atlantis2.jpgdubai_atlantis2With colorful exhibits of marine creatures.https://beyondelittlereddot.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/05/dubai_atlantis1.jpgdubai_atlantis1A creepy entrance into the Lost Chambers of Atlantis. This so reminds me of the Aliens movies.https://beyondelittlereddot.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/05/dubai_atlantis5.jpgdubai_atlantis5Atlantis Hotel and water theme park. We took the monorail from the mainland.https://beyondelittlereddot.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/05/dubai_atlantis4.jpgdubai_atlantis4Of course there is the huge aquarium.https://beyondelittlereddot.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/05/dubai_town3.jpgdubai_town3It was quite deserted, due to Ramadan and also the heat of late afternoon.https://beyondelittlereddot.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/05/dubai_town2.jpgdubai_town2The old buildings and alleys beside the Dubai Museum.https://beyondelittlereddot.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/05/dubai_town1.jpgdubai_town1The Dubai Museum. It's a great place to learn about the history of Dubai and how it has developed into what it is today.https://beyondelittlereddot.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/05/dubai_sail4.jpgdubai_sail4But you do get fabulous views of the Arabian coastline.https://beyondelittlereddot.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/05/dubai_sail1.jpgdubai_sail1Gold is the prominent color here. You cannot get enough of gold.2014-06-06T02:53:40+00:00monthlyhttps://beyondelittlereddot.com/2014/05/29/have-camera-will-travel/https://beyondelittlereddot.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/05/camera2.jpgcamera2I can carry along a tripod if required. There is also an attached rain cover.https://beyondelittlereddot.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/05/camera1.jpgcamera1The 400AW opens up only from the rear which is against your back when carried. This prevents strangers from opening and stealing your gear.2014-06-02T04:24:17+00:00monthlyhttps://beyondelittlereddot.com/2014/05/22/sapa-vietnam/https://beyondelittlereddot.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/05/sapa_shuttle_bus.jpgsapa_shuttle_bushttps://beyondelittlereddot.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/05/sapa_smoke.jpgsapa_smokeSmoking tobacco with the traditional pipe.https://beyondelittlereddot.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/05/sapa_salmon.jpgsapa_salmonSteamboat dinner with salmon. It cost us VND500,000 and could feed 4-5 persons.https://beyondelittlereddot.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/05/sapa_rice_terraces.jpgsapa_rice_terraceshttps://beyondelittlereddot.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/05/sapa_paddy_fields.jpgsapa_paddy_fieldsThe morning was getting hotter. And we found this nice spot with the sky reflected in the rice fields.https://beyondelittlereddot.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/05/sapa_mountains.jpgsapa_mountainsA make shift shelter with ethnic minorities selling handicrafts. At this place we left the main road and rode down into the village below.https://beyondelittlereddot.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/05/sapa_market.jpgsapa_markethttps://beyondelittlereddot.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/05/sapa_love_market.jpgsapa_love_markethttps://beyondelittlereddot.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/05/sapa_laocai.jpgsapa_laocaiThe bridge that leads to the Chinese side. https://beyondelittlereddot.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/05/sapa_hmong2.jpgsapa_hmong2Another H'mong matriarch. She was making moonshine from corn. 2014-05-31T08:49:57+00:00monthlyhttps://beyondelittlereddot.com/2014/05/28/whats-in-my-bag/2014-05-31T08:48:33+00:00monthlyhttps://beyondelittlereddot.comdaily1.02026-03-30T02:01:21+00:00