Station Hopping, Stockholm

This is the first and perhaps last time I would take the metro more than 6 times in 2-3 hours. All thanks to the longest museum in the world, that’s fortunately or unfortunately underground. I feel almost nauseous by the 3rd hour, a little claustrophobic as well. Metro overload. Sometimes I wonder why do I even need to put in effort while traveling? Shouldn’t I be enjoying myself instead? But good things come with a price. This museum experience was well, worth the effort.

Every metro station was an elaborated piece of art, each with a different theme. The art pieces stretch from one end to the other, and every section looks a bit different. There are two platforms every station since there’s bound to be a train that travels the opposite direction of the other. And true enough, the two platforms look different as well. But at the centre of at every station, the art piece is the most elaborated. So even if you want a short visit to the stations, just focus on the centre portion.

While it’s easy traveling around with the metro, the waiting time sucks sometimes. During non peak hours, you it takes around 10-15 minutes to wait for the next train at certain stations. And it’s not funny after while, especially during winter, where you literally feel the shivers down your spine, waiting for a train that never seem to arrive. Multiply that by around 10 main stations, you know you’ve waited foe trains at least for an hour in total. Hence the nauseous and claustrophobic feeling.

Here are the highlights, with the most elaborate and best art pieces.

While most of the stations are underground this is perhaps the only one that’s not.I love the big heart that’s like so in your face. It’s as though you’ve entered the world of pac-man with those pixelated animations.

I kinda think they tell a story, somewhat, with those arrows and all. Don’t forget to walk up and down the stairs, where you will get to see even more of these “old school” game boy quality animation. Feeling a bit cold, literally, I decided to move on. So many more stations to go man, ain’t nobody got time for too much pac-man!

Next up. A sea of red. And it’s Really RED. Hidden underground is the station called Solna Centrum. With a lot of imagination,  it looks like dawn / dusk, when the sunrises/ sets, illuminating the sky, painting it in one single shade of scarlet. But more realistically, it actually looks like a a furnace, or oven. It’s like you’re a pizza that just entered a preheated oven waiting to be baked. Pardon me for my food analogies.  Meh~

Walking along the platform, you’ll see multiple art pieces, some don’t make sense, while others can best be described in one sentence? Like the one above, all I can think of is “old man wants to cross the road with his dog”.

Moving on, I reached one of the most beautiful stations, Stadion.

Look at that rainbow! Happy painting. It’s as though I entered a kindergarten art class where kids love painting rainbows just cos it fills ups the drawing paper easily and has standard colors to follow. There were also huge big bold letters that say “STADION” at one of the ends/ entrances to the platform. Instead of a sea of red, now we see a sea of blue.

Kids’ art classes aside, how about reminiscing about some of the most famous fairy tales in the world, Snow White and the 7 dwarfs? A huge apple dangles right in the middle of this station called Tekniska Hogskolan.

Or perhaps something more graphic appeals to you better? There are multiple stations that are covered with monograms of simple drawings just like the two below, one full of wheat and the other stacking pentagons of various colors. Unfortunately, I don’t exactly remember the names of these stations. There are just too many of them!!!

Or perhaps, you’ll like something related to sister and brotherhood… then head to Tensta! Translated in different languages, Tensta station looks like a cave, with carved drawings from the stoneage period. It almost feels like walking into a Flintstone film where Wilma and Fred had documented their daily lives in huge stones and painted them in simple colors. Yet it seems like the cave belong to some temperate climate as penguins line the walls of the cave and there are drawings of reindeers as well. Well I guess its really up to our interpretation as to what kind of stories appear in our minds as we look at these drawings. 

Here’s a final summary of the main stations that appealed to me. Let’s get on board the T-bana for more discoveries!

Oh one thing good about T-Bana is that you get to keep the card for life. If you even intend on going back to Stockholm, you can always use it again. So dont bother doing a refund.

A tad too tired for another station.
Love the art pieces anyhow.

Northern Lights, Norway

This slideshow requires JavaScript.

Hello from the outside~~~~~~~~ Adele’s (not-very-new) song rings in my head as I stared into the sky to see nothing but darkness. If you think you can really see those green stuff with your eyes, at least [you] can say that [you’ve] tried…. I really tried a thousand times but if its not meant to be it isn’t.

The cameras could catch it though, and the tour guide was really nice to share with us the photos he managed to capture with his huge DSLR and tripod.

One thing to remember is to have your tripods ready for any northern light chasing tours.
That night, we set of at around 6+7 to take a long bus ride all the way up north to catch the Northern lights.

The tour that we engaged with was http://www.arcticguideservice.com/ 
It is situated near the Radisson Blu hotel. You can’t miss it -see the map below-Tromso is small. For our night, it was a big group of around 50, filling up the whole coach.

The first part of the tour was a really long talk by the tour guide who covered some history about Norway and how temperatures are like during summer, the time when people really get out of their houses to celebrate the warmer season. Then he will move on to talk about Northen lights and how they are formed. Here’s a short summary of it to satisfy any curious minds out there.

1. Northern Lights are created by interactions between Earth’s magnetic field and solar wind. Solar wind is charged particles that come from the Sun.
2. These charged particles distort our Earth’s magnetic field by entering the atmosphere at the two poles (North & South), ‘exciting’ the gases in the atmosphere, causing them to glow.
3. Solar wind sometimes causes Earth’s magnetic field lines to be disconnected from the planet. However,  when the magnetic field lines snap back into its original position, aurora is created because charged particles from the solar wind gets pushed into the atmosphere.
4. Basically, the more magnetic field lines that disconnect and snap back, the more obvious the Northen lights.

We were brought to 3 different places around the mountains to check the Northern lights out. Typically the best time to catch these Northern lights is from 9pm onwards, till midnight.

We reached our first stop at around 8+ and set up our tripods. Sun sets there at around 8+ as well, so it was a rare opportunity to catch it. Then, all you do is to. WAIT. There’s really a lot of waiting since forecasts are almost always wrong. So its a matter of luck and technology, for you to catch a glimpse of it.

As it was so freaking cold, and we weren’t really in the right attire, we had to get back on board the coach multiple times just to get some warmth, before braving the winds again.

About an hour or so later, we could finally see some changes in the sky. There was a faint glow that cut across the sky. It felt like a plane just went past, leaving its exhaust behind, which looked like a long tail.

A picture speaks a thousand words. This is the one that I was talking about. Although I could not see it as clearly as what’s seen in this photograph, tone it down by 70%, and that’s perhaps what we saw with our naked eyes.

Then that was all for the naked eyes. The rest of the night remained quiet, with not much aurora. We headed further down to a lake, where we were told that there could be more to see.

Before we departed, the tour guide provided us with some cookies and hot chocolate. Mind you, no matter how horrible those cookies or hot chocolate taste like, you would still appreciate it in that sub-zero weather.

Our journey continued.

In almost pitch darkness, we reached a peaceful lake. The water was still, as though it was just a layer of ice. In this part of the world where nothing is moving, except for the shivers down my spine due to the coldness, I actually still feel a sense of peace. It was as though time stopped once again; all the mind chatter and distractions in life dissipated into the vast horizon, melting into the snow under my ice cold feet.

Despite the almost non existent light, we could still see the reflection of the mountains nearby on the water surface. Perhaps the only sources of light was from some small houses that sat near by the lake. I thought to myself, wouldn’t it be amazing if we could step out of our houses every morning to the view of a huge lake? That stillness that reflects the optimism of sunshine, which accompanies you till dawn and dusk over and over again?

Even though I did not manage to catch the aurora this time round, it was still a memorable experience. One thing good about the arctic services is that, if you do not manage to catch the northern lights for the first time, you’ve one year to head back to the same tour, with a 50% discount off your second tour with them. As cliche as it sounds, every one deserves a second chance, won’t we grant the northern lights a second chance too?

The beauty of mother nature remains a mystery. Has anyone of us every thought why natural scenery can resonate so well with some of us that we find it breathtaking just taking  glimpse of it? Or do some of us merely take it for granted that every sunrise and sunset is nothing more than a signal for the next day?

Feeling slightly disappointed, but it is a worthwhile visit.

The Ultimate Selfie Challenge: Reindeer Sledding w. Tromso Safari

This slideshow requires JavaScript.

Rudolph the red nose reindeer…. its the first time in my life that I actually feel like I am celebrating christmas during…Easter. Well, Rudolph has no red nose sadly and they are seriously the shyest animals ever? Its not like kangaroos where you can just pat it whenever you want to in zoos, they literally SHY AWAY FROM YOU. NO CONTACT, not even with food. Well, they do sometimes eat from your hand, but really, don’t bother being cuddly. It does not work. So to all people who want to take selfies with them. Try harder.

Hence, I’m super proud of this picture. Rudolph stared at my camera! HOW RARE. You’ve no idea how many photos Ive taken before I could capture this. Hallelujah. (But, Rudolph gets killed at the end of the day, read more here).

Anyhow this is about reindeer sledding. No idea what it is? View this short clip below!

As a kid, I have always dreamt about sledding with reindeers, pretending how it would feel like if I were Santa Claus, flying above chimneys, distributing presents to kids secretly. When childhood fantasies like this really comes true, I can tell you with 100% confidence interval (I doubt any stats would be more accurate than this), that there is a zero standard deviation that you feel anything like Santa Claus. Simply because the ride is…

SO… S…L…O…W

It’s as though time stopped. Reindeers don’t fly, they stroll. Even though sometimes they want to run, they aren’t allowed to simply because the tour guides wouldn’t allow them to. If I had to give reindeer sledding a target segment, that would be… for the retired or those who are naturally afraid of speed or of course for those who really really want a nice view of the snow-capped mountains. This is where you should be.

So in this 3km long stroll, what happens is that the reindeers will walk and walk and walk, and then walk back the same way, in one loop. So you basically get the same view twice. No worries if you miss out on taking beautiful pictures beforehand, you can always have another 1.5km to take it again later.

Here’s the view from the starting point. Overseeing the lake of ??, I’ve no idea… you do feel a sense of tranquility, as if time stands still for the moment, as the winter breeze brushes past your frozen cheeks. Staring into whiteness, I somehow wished that this place would never be developed and would remain like this forever. After all the hustling and bustling city lives we all lead, this is where you can enjoy a momentary peace of mind…

But the thoughts of city life hits me right again, as I turned around to spot this snowmobile. Ah, the city never leaves us behind. Vehicles. Boo.

Then another turn around, I spotted a tent. Something more nomadic once again, as I entered deep into my thoughts. I can only imagine how tough life could be for nomads last time, having the need to brave through the cold winters without electricity (maybe) and proper shelter (proper in the 21st century understanding with wifi hotspots and your favourite Netflix show on your smart devices)

And one thing really memorable about Rudolphs is that, they do not stink! Even though certain parts of the snow are kinda flooded with reindeer shit, see picture below, you hardly smell anything from it. Perhaps cos of the cold?

So off we go! Reindeer sledding starts. There isn’t much of a safety precaution briefing, except the fact that you really should keep your legs off the ground and just sit down and stone. The guide would then lead the tour. There are around 4/5 sleds, each sled holding 2 people, each with 1 reindeer pulling it.

3km took us around 45 minutes I believe. and even though there were other really more exciting tours in Norway, you might not want to miss this as well. How often will you come so close into contact with reindeers? How often would you get the chance to feed them even, and more importantly… how rare is it that you can just never take a proper selfie no matter how hard you try? THIS IS THE ULTIMATE SELFIE CHALLENGE.

For more details about the tour, read here.

Snapping photos non-stop on my iPhone,
Can’t get the selfie right. Sigh.

 

 

Tainan Anping Treehouse

This slideshow requires JavaScript.

What used to be a warehouse is now a banyan tree structure that looms over, draping its aerial roots all over.

The negative connotations that banyan tree has -haunted, ghostly, spiritual- have kept people away from this infrastructure until more recently, in 2004, when the Anping Treehouse was renamed a historical site opened to all.

More than  a century ago, Tait Marketing & Distribution Co., Ltd. (德記洋行) was situated here trading commodities like sugar and camphor, which is used in insect repellents. However, during the Japanese rule, this place was closed down, leaving the warehouse portion abandoned.

Not far away from the main treehouse, there’s a man-made bridge that stretches across a water catchment area and leads to a wooden structure that is elevated. As you climb up the stairs, be amazed at how this newer infrastructure juxtaposes itself against the old treehouse.

Have a sit on the elevated ground and let nature take over you and relax as the summer breeze brushes past your face as you overlook the whole Anping Treehouse. The best selfies can be taken here, possibly.

Address: No.108, Gubao St., Anping Dist., Tainan City 708, Taiwan 

Sunset by the Windmill – Taichung (Tai Zhong)

While visiting Taichung, I was brought over by my Taiwanese friends to this scenic spot where I could catch the sunset. It was really beautiful. Many other Taiwanese were there to catch this amazing sight. Usually when you think of windmill, probably one would think of Holland, however, knowing that windmills also exist in Taiwan came as a surprise to me. Nevertheless, I feel that if one wants to escape from the usual night market or shopping in Taichung, try to ask the Taiwanese in Taichung in your accommodation or tourist centres to see if they know this area (Try asking for sunset by windmill or something along that line). If they do, you are in luck! However, you need your own transport (car or scooter) to get there. As it is not located in the heart of Taichung, you will probably need at least an hour or two to reach here. Please find out more before you rush off on your own, in case you are lost. But who knows, being lost in a country might prove an adventure for you!

Enjoy these sunset photos!!! They are beautiful! Hope this give you an alternative view of Taichung! =) Explore & Mingle to find out other hidden or unique spots in any country you visit!

Random Wandering in Osaka – Sakura Discovery by the Lake

During Spring in Japan, the first thing that comes to each and everybody’s mind will be Sakura Trees. Spring is the season when Sakura blossom and it gives off a very pretty sight and fill the air with a wonderful fragrant.

While in Osaka, we were travelling to our destination (can’t remember), while on board the train, we past by this fantastic Sakura sight. As we weren’t able to catch any full bloomed Sakura in our past few days in Japan, Kansai region, we finally saw the Sakura in full bloomed. We decided to just alight and head over to the pretty Sakura trees. They are standing by the lake/river, and it was just wonderful. It was the kind of picture that we had in our minds. Take a look at the various shots we have taken. Pink, white Sakura, just beautiful.

Be sure to be observant and do something out of your planned itinerary to truly explore and go for something that is more special & unique along your trip. Without them, you will still enjoy your trip but probably not to the best. Exploring the city, impromptu stops to look at beautiful places, and try wonderful food, to make your trip worthwhile! Hope you enjoy these Sakura!

Philosopher’s Path – Sakura Trees by Your Side

While in Kyoto, one of the most beautiful place you should visit during Spring will be the Philosopher’s Path where you will be able to view the beautiful Sakura Trees. This is one of the most beautiful spot where you should experience hanami (Sakura viewing) when you are in Kyoto. Definitely a sight not to be missed!

(Sorry for the poor photos, Sakura are not in full bloom yet)

This slideshow requires JavaScript.

They are lined up along this short path leading to the Ginkakuji Temple. You can also make a visit to the temple if you are keen in local temple. Nevertheless, it will be an enjoyable day/evening stroll along this path. If there were wind and the Sakura were in full bloom, you might be able to feel the petals floating past you. What a wonderful & beautiful sight to see! Do bring your family & loved ones over here if you are visiting Kyoto during Spring! (Do check the Sakura blooming dates as well to avoid coming at the wrong time.)

Yasaka Shrine & Maruyama Park – A Place to be during Sakura Season

While you are in Gion Area trying to spot for Geisha, or enjoying the cultural aspects of Kyoto, walk across the street before entering Gion and you will come across the Yasaka Shrine & Maruyama Park. A local shrine where Japanese will come and pray, and a park with its own magnificent tree rooted there.

This slideshow requires JavaScript.

During Spring, when Sakura are blooming, it will be pleasant to come to these areas and enjoy the Festive mood. Japanese students and families will crowd around here for Hanami (Sakura Viewing) while they sit on the mats and eat, drink and sing. It will be a pleasant sight for you to get the local vibe. While along the entrance to the shrine, there will be food stalls set up, where you can get Japanese food from store owners. This is similar to what you have seen in manga or anime. Walk along the stretch, and grab something to bite while you are admiring the Sakura.

When night falls, head over to Maruyama Park which is behind the shrine, and cast your eyes to the beauty of this wonderful tree here. A must take photo as a souvenir I would say. At night, the park comes to life especially during the Festive Season, where there will be many food stalls open, and you get to see many Japanese gathering here. Eat, and look at what the locals are doing, embrace the wonderful atmosphere while you are here.

After all these, you can head back down to Gion Area again to spot the Geishas, or head over to the Philosopher Path to enjoy a night walk over there, and experiencing a quiet time there.

These are the places that you MUST come if you are in Kyoto during the Sakura season. Places where you can look at the beautiful Sakura, get yourself into the festive mood, and enjoy your time with other Japanese who are also enjoying their own Hanami.

To know how to get to Yasaka Shrine, click here.

Maruyama Park is just located behind Yasaka Shrine.

Genbudo Park – Look at the Interesting Rock Cave

For those of you who are staying in Kinosaki Onsen, and you don’t know what to do. You can head over to the Genbudo Park which is easily accessible by the train. Head over here, if you are interested in looking at the the rock cave where you can see natural carving on it. You just have to make a short stop over here and look at these natural sites, and take a look at Gen-san, their mascot here!

Before making a visit here, kindly make an arrangement with the boat, which cost 300yen each. You can also visit Izushi Castle Town to eat their famous soba and look at their well preserved Izushi Castle! If you did not stay a night at Kinosaki Onsen, while visiting here, do make arrangement to stay there to soak yourself up in the Onsen, and also eat their delicious food!

For more information, click here. (In Japanese, please use google translate to understand the information written)

Izushi Castle Town

Izushi Castle Town is a quiet, small town located in Northern Hyogo. This town gives you the feel of olden Japan. As it is a small town, there isn’t too many sightseeing spots for you to look at. However, you will still find interesting things in this small town. There will be the small, well-preserved Izushi Castle, the clocktower, and a small little hill which you can climb up to see the view of this small town. Usually, it isn’t crowded with tourists so you can feel relaxed walking and enjoying yourself in this town.

As you are walking around, there will be many soba stores where you can eat their famous Izushi Soba. Absolutely delicious and you can’t stop eating once you have started. (Sorry, we didn’t manage to take photos of it.) This town is also famous for its porcelain goods, and there are a few shops where you can admire or buy these goods as well.

A small town, nevertheless, it gives you the vibe of olden Japan, and you can relaxed without the usual crowds of tourists. Enjoy! While you are here, you should make a stop at Genbudo Park to look at the amazing rock carving and also a night stay in Kinosaki Onsen to soak yourself in the amazing Onsen.

For more details and how to get there, click here.