Trip Moments Recommendations
Whale Watching; Must Do in Tromso
#solotrip #europetrip #vianasjourney
Silent whale watching is something that i would totally recommend while in Tromso. The catamaran ride was long and we was told there were no 100% guaranteed that we would see the whale but I would say, the journey itself going out in the sea was beautiful. Fortunately, we were lucky enough that we saw some orcas and humpback whales around. There were food and drinks you can buy at the bar inside the catamaran, toilets also available and you could wander around the ship with caution at any time you prefer. I would recommend to not pair this activity with any other plan because the ride can be longer than expected.
Fun facts;
On the background, there’s few houses with 3 different colours showing red, yellow and white. The color of those houses showed one’s social status: Red houses, made with earth-pigments were for the poor people. Yellow, made with copper, for a bit richer folk and white, made with zinc, for the village owner.
Preston Palace; All Inclusive Family Resort
#besthotels #europetrip #vianasjourney
One of the best staycation we ever had where all facilities are just under one roof. We spent most of our time playing American pool, bowling, and spending a little bit of extra money at the arcade. The bumper cart was fun too but unfortunately it was only open in the evening.
But one place that we love the most was their subtropical pool. It was well decorated to match the theme and they even have some fake rains pouring from time to time.
When it comes to food, I cannot remember time where we were hungry because there was always food available even in the pool area.
Go check their official website if you wanna know more about the details.
Gertrudenhof; Beautiful Farmer’s Market In Germany
#europetrip #vianasjourney #holidayseason
Gertrudenhof is a medium size farmer’s market that host few events through the year. Last month during autumn, I was visiting their pumpkin festival and I had a super fun time over there.
The whole area decorated with pumpkin from many sizes. Apart from the attractive decorations, there were also plenty of food and drink products made from pumpkin were sold here such as pumpkin spice syrup, pumpkin candies, pancake and more.
There were also small petting zoo and playground that available for children.
Address; Lortzingstraße 160 Hürth
Norway; Make Wishes Come True
#holidayseason #vianasjourney #familytrip
Norway is my dream destination. I was finally able to fulfils that dream early this month when I visited there with my family. Here were what we did on our trips;
1st Day;
Arriving in Tromso, and took Airport Express bus to the city center which only located 15minutes away. Tickets for bus were bought beforehand.
We stayed at Scandic Grand Tromso which was also close to the harbour and other pickup points for tour.
We arrived before our check in time and we took the opportunity to look around the city.
2nd Day;
a) Huskies Ride
The station for the huskies ride was a bit far from the city. We rode a bus provided by the travel agency from Tromso harbour around 0930 for more than 90minutes. It was a long ride but definitely worth it. I personally think it was the most memorable moment for me.
b) Aurora Lights
In the evening at 1830 we have to catch another ride to view aurora lights. (Ps; I would not recommend to do two activities in a day as it can drained your energy so much).
3day;
Silent Whale Watching
We rode a catamaran in the morning to view some orcas and humpback whales in their habitat.
By Far, The Most Worthy ‘All You Can Eat’ Place
#oktoberfest2024 #deliciousfood #vianasjourney
Restaurant Concept; Fusion Sushi & grill
With over 150 menus to choose from, I personally think this restaurant by far, the best ‘all you can eat’ restaurant I had ever visited. You may stay and enjoying the food for 2 hours and order maximum 4 dishes (per person) every 15 minutes. Their food is absolutely delicious. The meat was tender, seafood tasted fresh and everything is well seasoned. The interior is elegant and welcoming, with plenty of table and chairs for small to big group. Absolutely recommend this restaurant if you visiting Vianen.
Visit The Vase With 15 Sunflowers
#oktoberfest2024 #vangoghnationaalpark #vianasjourney
For sunflower’s lovers in The Netherland, you may take this chance to visit this art piece from Van Gogh National Park in De Menmoerhoeve. They are in bloom now. There was no entrance fee required but a donation for this amazingly beautiful arts is welcome. It is surrounded by a farmland so a proper footwear is really recommended. The area is really suitable for family even with young kids. There is also a small petting zoo you could visit which is just next to the parking area.
Spacious & Cozy Setting at FourSide Plaza
#mybesthotel #vianasjourney #couplestrip
Trier is the oldest city in Germany, plenty of historical sites you could visit. The location which is close to Luxembourg make it an interesting and strategic place for you to stay as it is overall cheaper than staying in Luxembourg itself.
If you decided to stay in Trier, do consider this place for your stay. It is about 15 to 20 minutes walk to the city center. The room itself so spacious and even has it own hallway.
Bed and mattress is so soft and smelling fresh all the time. You could rent their parking spot, which I paid 9€ for two nights.
The only downside for me was that it was not equipped with air conditioning that it can get warm in the evening. I did not ask for fan from the staff but that could be something you might wanna ask for.
The Majestic Flower Parade in Zundert
#weekendgetaways #vianasjourney #awesomepic
This event is called Corso Zundert, the larget flower parade in the world which happening in Zundert at every first sunday of September. This year, there were 20 spectacular artworks made by volunteers. The artworks were named; Geppetto, De Beet, Frankenstein 2-24, De Diepzeeduiker, Requiem, Hebzucht, Afgeschreven, Orangerie, The Lost Suitcase,De Natuur Ontwaakt, Helden, Fenrir, Mobile Eenheid, Invasie, Speelgoedleven, Front, Moire, A Network Of Schimmeldraden, Voor Acht Uur Besteld, and Khazad Dum. There were an entrance fee for only 15€ per person and 5€ for parking space. I would totally recommend to visit this event if you are happen to be in Nederlands September next year.
Nearby Historical Places to Visit in Trier
#myitinerary #vianasjourney #awesomepic
Trier is the oldest city of Germany, despite having plenty of modern buildings, many historical landmarks still well preserved and become an attraction around Trier that any visitors should visit. Below are few that you should consider to visit;
2nd - 4th picture; Trier Amphitheater
It is an old arena used during Roman Empire. It might look like nothing when you just standing on the surface but there is also underground area and tunnels that bring you around the arena. It is very tourist friendly as brochures and information board are available in few languages including english.
5th - 7th picture; Liebfrauenkirche, Trier
A grand catholic church in the center of the city. No entrance fee is required but feel free to give donation for maintenance of the place. It is a big area where an underground is also available for visitors. According to UNESCO, it is the earliest church built in French High Gothic style outside of France.
8th & 9th; Porta Nigra
Also known as Black Gate, a little bit outside of the city but it only took few minutes walk to arrive here. It is also listed on UNESCO World Cultural Heritage List.
10th & 11th; Carl Marx Statue
Trier is home to Carl Marx, a famous philosopher in the 19th century.
Strolling Around Luxembourg City
#familytravel #vianasjourney #awesomepic
Our trip to Luxembourg was short but since it was not such a big city, we managed to see quite a few places around. My first thought when walking around was ‘there is a lot of climbing stairs and hills’. It is indeed need a lot of climbing, be it a stairs or a hill. The city center itself is on the top and surrounded by the city gate. Palais Grand Ducal can be easily spotted in the center, the building/ architecture is so grand and elegant. Price of food can be a bit expensive compared to other surrounding European countries.
Moderate Hiking Route @Mullerthal Trail, Route 3
#familytravel #vianasjourney #awesomepic
Moderate hiking route where you can reach two among few famous top spots along the trail.
The first spot/ attraction you might encounter is Schéissendempel. A triple (small) waterfall with a wooden bridge on its top (second picture).
Second attraction is Kallektuffquell (the one on my cover picture). The water is clear and super cold. It is a small area where it can be crowded with visitors trying to take pictures.
If you are not interested to go through the hiking trail, there is another option for you. You can drive your car to the spots I have mentioned above. Those two places located just next to the road. Bus is also available around this area, you may need to look it up if that something for you.
Black Gate in The Oldest City of Germany
#citydaytours #vianasjourney #awesomepic
Porta Nigra or also known as Black Gate is located in the city of Trier, the oldest city in Germany. While visiting, keep in mind that entrance will be close 30 minutes before closing time which is 6pm. Entrance fee is cheap which only cost at 4€ per person but if I may be honest, there is nothing much to see in the building itself. I feel like it actually just enough to just admire the architecture from outside itself. But if you decided to go inside, keep in mind that spiral staircase will bring you to the top where you can enjoy the view but it is not wheelchair friendly.
Heather is in Full Bloom at The Veluwe
#europetrip #vianasjourney #awesomepic
The Veluwe features many different landscapes, including hills, woodland, heath, and some small lakes. It is the largest national park that I have been to so far in The Netherlands which also offer free entrance for walking, cycling and horse riding. I especially enjoy walking around the park in summer (around August) because of the heather flower is in full bloom. The view surrounding is especially mesmerising during this period. Apart from wild horses, and deer, Scottish Highland cattle can sometimes be seen around in the wild.
Short Visit in The Hague City Center
#europetrip #vianasjourney #awesomepic
My visit to The Hague was short but I managed to explore a little bit of the city area. Here are some places that easily can be access in the city.
1. The passage; A shopping complex with plenty of items and food you can get from. The unique thing about The Passage is because of the grand architecture, glass-roofed shopping arcade dating from 1885, the passageway reminds me of St. Hubert in Brussels.
2. H&M; Located just opposite of The Passage, probably the fanciest H&M branch I ever entered.
3. Binnenhof Viewing Tower; You may enter for free. This viewing tower offers a unique view of the 800-year-old architecture of the Binnenhof during the renovation.
4. The New Church; Protestant Church with small cafe available in the facility. I was not able to go inside but it was a nice walk around the church.
A Genuine Medieval Castle
#europetrip #vianasjourney #awesomepic
🌟 Well preserved medieval castle, you may explore the castle by yourself or take a guided tour. It less known to international tourists so many information boards are in Dutch but not too worry as there is also translated pamphlet provided.
🌟 Entrance fee for adult is €14.50 but you can use your museumcard for free to enter here (do bring your physical card, it is only valid if you have both including your reservation slip for date & time).
🌟 There is a cafe in front of the palace you can visit, but do not expect big menu.
🌟 Castle open everyday from 11am to 5pm except Monday. Parking is available for free. You can also walk around the castle, in the summer, fruits such pear, apple, and prune are starting to ripe.
🌟 Address; Kasteellaan 1, 5324 JR Ammerzoden
Kitesurfing Spot in Maasvlakte, Rotterdam
#europetrip #vianasjourney #awesomepic
🌟 Mostly known and famous for kitesurfing activities, but there are some visitors just came for swimming or simply enjoying the beach.
🌟 Most of visitors bring their own equipment for kitesurfing. I did not see anyone offer renting equipment on location.
🌟 Unfortunately, no cafe or public toilet nearby that visitors can use while visiting the beach. You have to come prepare if you thinking of visiting.
🌟 The area surrounded by industrial facilities and harbour, so it seems impossible to find food supplies from anywhere nearby.
🌟 You may find a Lifeguard post with a Dutch flag incase you in need of any help.
An Excellent Spot for Local Food & Souvenirs
#heritageplace #vianasjourney #solotravel
As a Bornean in the west, I was so happy to see my traditional items being sold here. From ratan handicraft to jewellery made from beads, to fancy bornean pearl and to our childhood snacks. I just can not believe that I did not come here sooner.
🌟 Here are some among many local items/ stores that catched my attention;
1) Batik; For both gender, you will find many shops displaying clothes with modern and classic design of batik.
2) Ratan handicrafts; Such sling bags and basket are available.
3) Groceries store; with mostly sell local food/snacks. I bought some homemade kaya jam with some prepacked herbal tea. Snacks from Borneo can be find here as well such amplang and kuih cincin.
4) Makan (food) hall; plenty of small stores where you can order from.
🌟 My feedback overall; I truly recommend this place to visit not just for international but also local. I was afraid price would be expensive as many tourists visited here but honestly it was reasonable.
🌟 There are also an outdoor stalls. Check them out as well. They are mostly food and jewellery stalls from local brand.
Malaysian Chinese Home Cooked Dishes
#solotravel #deliciousfood #vianasjourney
Located in the famous alleyway ‘Kwai Chai Hong’, once you notice a big ice cream decoration infront of a yellow wall, you are at this lovely store.
🌟 This cafe is specialized in Malaysian Chinese dishes which are prepared by two moms (you may scan the QR and get to know about their background and menu available)
🌟 Selection of menu were not big but you may choose from main course to local dessert to drinks. Portion of food was not big but considiring it is located at one of famous area in KL, I can understand why it was slightly expensive.
🌟 Setting & vibes; downstairs have a big table for big group while upstairs are more for medium to small group of customers. Some part of upstairs decorated with antique chinese decorations.
🌟 What I had;
1) Special coffee-pandan latte; I do enjoy a little twist on my food and I actually believe that this combination would taste delicious but unfortunately, I can not recognized the taste of the pandan and very light smell of it on the coffee. But regardless, bravo on the presentation.
2) Nyonya kuih (3 pieces) with different flavour; I liked it that I get three different flavour. It has been a while since I actually had one.
🌟 What I actually missed out; their signature pandan coconut ice cream. I would want to try it if I am given an opportunity to visit again.
Cozy Cafe in The Middle of Nilai Old Town
#foodies #deliciousfood #vianasjourney
🌟 My personal favourite;
1) Coconut Matcha; Love the unique combination of matcha and coconut water. It was Rm19 a glass, slightly pricey but it was an interesting experience.
2) Mantau with buttermilk gravy; Gravy was a bit watery but it was so well made. It was a bit creamy and slightly spicy, I love the balanced taste.
🌟 Vibes and setting; super cozy setting, no loud music blasted inside the cafe, not too crowded, vintage technology mainly used for decorations.
🌟 Price wise; for some dishes or drinks, it tend to be a bit pricey but the food was to my liking so I can not complain much. I am someone who do not mind spending on food that I like.
Warung Terlolap Mato; One of Best Eatery in Nilai
#foodies #vianasjourney #deliciousfood
🌟 My personal favourite;
1) Keli Salai Lemok Cili Api (specialty food of Negeri Sembilan) - smoked catfish prepared with creamy, flavourful & spicy combination of turmeric, coconut milk and few other local herbs.
2) Cendol pulut; one of Malaysian’s traditional sweet & cold dessert - enriched with droplets of green rice flour jelly, coconut milk & palm sugar syrup.
🌟 Vibes & concept; green garden with outdoor setting. Although it can be a bit warm but fan is available to reduce the heat. Warung (restaurant) located in a quite ‘abandoned’ looking area but once you get inside, it look different compared to what you see outside. This warung specialised in kampung/ traditional food.
🌟 Parking; no specific parking available for customers but everyone seems to just park under the tree in front of the restaurant.
🌟Price wise; for this such a deluxe taste, I can not believe they only charged Rm37.50 for that whole food I have in my picture. Absolutely recommend to others.
Melaka; Premium Outlet With Dutch Heritage Design
#grouptravel #vianasjourney #awesomepic
🌟 Built as an open-air mall, the heavily greened landscape includes five water features, a lake, four parks and lawns, a windmill and a carousel.
🌟 Offering over 80 fashion brands with everyday low prices. From accessories, sports clothing, bags and eateries.
🌟 Plenty of insta worthy spots, my favourite is the windmill area.
🌟 Fun fact; The World's first COACH AIRWAYS, flight no CA1941, departing from Gate 747, located at Freeport A'Famosa Outlet. You will notice it immediately once you close to the area.
Less Crowded Water Park With Cozy Environment
#grouptravel #awesomepic #vianasjourney
🌟 Better option to swim and have fun during this sunny and humid weather. Less crowded even though I went on weekend.
🌟 Limited activities as they only have 4 categories of activity.
- Surf and slide
- water fun challenge
- water maze
- swimming pool
But we still enjoy it very much as the environment and surroundings is very pretty, where afterwards we spent around took plenty of pictures. Entrance fee is cheap, only Rm20 per person but keep in mind that you have to wear your wristband all the time when using the facilities.
🌟 Changing room and locker are available near the ticket counter. It was well taken care off.
🌟 Fun tip; Agroworld Malaysia Expo 11th Edition is ongoing here till 30th of June, local fruits is worth to try.
Fist Indonesian-themed Restaurant in Johor Bahru
#foodies #vianasjourney #deliciousfood
🌟 My personal favourite;
1) Terong Balado; The sambal is spicy and balanced taste. Terong was not fried till it was too soggy.
2) Tempe Goreng as a side is a must.
🌟 We were served with complimentary warm wedqng jahe (warm ginger tea) in a small cup.
🌟 Apart from balinese cuisine, they also have option from Central Java, snack food and typical Indonesian mee such bakso.
🌟 Restaurant interior & vibes; it is a medium size restaurant which does not have overcrowded decorative but they tried to have an Indonesian elements. For example, you can see it by seeing the plates they using, the arrangement of the table and some other common decorations use in Indonesia. I enjoyed my food and the vibes. Staff were helpful.
🌟 Location; A0104 (GF), Block A, Eko Galleria, Jalan Eko Botani 3, Taman Eko Botani, 79100 Iskandar Puteri, Johor.
Cute Little Crepe Cafe in Jonker Street
#foodies #vianasjourney #deliciousfood
🌟 My personal favourite crepe; tiramisu affair - As an Malaysian, a good dessert means it was not too sweet. They claimed it has bold flavours of cocoa and espresso but I do not think it was that ‘bold’ but could be because I had a strong coffee with mine.
🌟 As for coffee I chose my latte with palm sugar, I am a person interested in a little twist in my food/ drink. Coffee was strong which I like but probably a bit sweet for my taste. Should have mention to reduce the sweetness when I ordered earlier.
🌟 Cafe vibes; tropical garden vibes, decorated with wooden furniture. The area is small but few types of setting from medium group to smaller group. Wc is available at the back of the cafe.
🌟 Price wise; still reasonable for a cafe in a most visited street.
The Authentic Taste of Negeri Sembilan
#foodies #vianasjourney #visitmalaysia
🌟 Restaurant concept & vibes; Peaceful kampung (village) garden setting. Has outdoor setting.
🌟 My personal favourite; Ikan patin (silver catfish) gulai lemak tempoyak (coconut milk gravy with turmeric, bird’s eye chili & fermented durian). Gravy is medium thick, creamy, and spicy, just the way I like it. The fermented durian is not too overpowering. Superb 👌🏻
🌟 Price-wise; For those food above include two drinks, I only paid Rm54, the taste worth it. Definitely coming back.
🌟 Fun fact; Gordon Ramsay was here for his travelogue foodie programme called ‘The Great Escape’.
🌟 Truly recommend this place for anyone looking for authentic Negeri Sembilan’s dishes.
Kuala Lumpur’s First Large Scale Recreational Park
#solotravel #visitmalaysia #vianasjourney
🌟 Type; Urban Park
🌟 Location; In the heart of the city - Lembah Pantai, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
🌟 Activities; Picnic, exercises, photoshoot, playground for children
🌟 Other facilities; cafe/ stores, wc, picnic table, rubbish bin, benches.
🌟 Places of interest; deer park, hibiscus garden, & canopy at main square.
Local Is The New Luxury
#foodies #visitmalaysia #vianasjourney
🌟 Restaurant’s concept; Local food with a playful twist
🌟 My personal favourite;
1) Kampung luxury; soft boiled egg on sourdough toast with thick curry gravy, cheese melt & baked beans - bread absord all the goodness from the gravy while still maintained it crunchiness. Perfect combonation.
2) Steamed beef bacoon roll - juiciest chicken filling wrapped with smoked beef bacoon slice.
🌟 Interior; Tropical garden
🌟 Price; reasonable (for all the food on the slide, I paid less than Rm80)
Private Chalet in Taman Negara Pahang, MY
#staycation #vianasjourney #visitmalaysia
🌟Our room consist of 1 queen bed & 1 single bed
🌟Water boiler, shower, water bottles, usual amenities are provided
🌟 Private balcony - plenty of monkeys around but they were not aggresive towards us.
🌟 Restaurant and spa in the area. Please book the spa before going. Bring plenty of snacks because not many stall available on this other side of river.
🌟 You have to cross a river to reach here. A fee of Rm1 per person is required. Hotel staff will help load and carry your baggages to the hotel reception area.
🌟 Activities can be book from hotel or other small local company nearby.
🌟 You are allowed to take a walk in the park but canopy walk needed guide and not allowed to enter if bad weather.
🌟 I had about 3 leeches on my legs while take a walk in the jungle. So take precaution.
Relax & Chill By The Pool Side
#malaysiatrip #awesomepic #vianasjourney
🌟 Hotel looks a bit old but giving classic and charming vibes. Lobby and hallway smells really nice because of the diffusers set around the area
🌟 Other available services; saloon & spa, long hours package is available.
🌟 Most importantly; pool is spacious with pool bar always available everytime I visited. Staff will bring towels once you seated and will ask for room number.
🌟 Price on pool bar; can be pricey but I love the vibes, service and the choices they have so I am happy with everything.
🌟 plenty of pool chairs with umbrellas. Kids’ pool also available nearby with connecting slide.
Dynasty Hotel; Old But Gold
#hotelreview #vianasjourney #awesomepic
🌟 Room; Standard Twin Room; Just enough space for two people. One pillow for each bed, have to pay extra Rm5 if requesting for an extra. Room condition, clean but tiles and bathroom door does look so obvious that it has been used for awhile.
🌟 In order for me to use my free breakfast, I have to request a voucher from counter every each morning of my stay. Option for the breakfast buffet were not that much but food was to my liking.
🌟 Facilities; I was not able to use other facilities that provided, but I was able to store my luggage after check out. Wifi were really slow from my room.
🌟 Locationwise; It super close to Bintang Megamall & only 3 minutes walk to UTC Miri.