Wednesday, May 18, 2022

Singaore - To Eat/Do 16May22 (Privé @ Marina at Keppel Bay)

Singapore - To Stay
Singapore - To Eat
Singapore - To Do
Privé
(@ Marina at Keppel Bay)
Prive, a well established chain and one of it is located picturesquely at the Marina at Keppel Bay. There's another outlet opening soon at the Singapore Botanic Gardens. 

Ordered On:

16May22


Fish and Chips SGD25

*A light crunch served with a hearty fish. The malt vinegar at the side was a nice, classic British touch.*
Beef Burger SGD25
*Pretty decent double patty juicy burgers.*

Mushroom Carbonara SGD19

*Lacks seasoning. The flavours are there but the total lack of seasoning was a little disappointing.

Cesar Salad SGD16

*Throughly enjoyable. The dressing is a little heavy and honestly felt commercial. The thick cut bacon and condiments were  put nicely together. The serving size was very decent for even a party of two to share.*

Crab Cakes SGD12

*Average.*

Apple Cinnamon Blondie with Ice Cream SGD9

Meringue Chiffon-slice SGD6
Croissant SGGD4.20

*The blondie dessert deserve a special mention. Anything warm with a ice-cream hits the spot wrapping up the meal. Croissant came recommended but fell short.*

Ambience 4/5

Service 3.5/5

Food 3.5/5

Value 4/5
Total Fed 4  SGD136.80

Click here for ABBA location Privé @ Keppel Bay of Prive

A pretty good meal and after dinner activity with a walk of the bay. The food is pretty decent but its the view at Keppel Bay that makes the trip out here worth it. 

Look out for the White Rabbit - The Largest tri-hull in The World at USD100million.

*The impressive White Rabbit in the background*

A walk from Keppel Bay to the opposite boardwalk and back takes about 35mins.


Click here for ABBA location Privé @ Keppel Bay of Prive
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Singapore - To Do 16May22 (Play @ Heights Park Toa Payoh)

Singapore - To Stay
Singapore - To Eat
Singapore - To Do
Play @ Heights Park (Toa Payoh)
Operates daily from 8am-9pm
Absolutely fantastic! The new playground has it all in a small location. Water and sand play in a single location plus a playground. 
 
Open shower facilities were available on-site and they have nice, sheltered, sit-down location for parent which was fantastic and saved us as it started to rain after about half an hour of waterplay. 
Excellent play-ability features with smart designs. E.g. The spray cannons are free to rotate but would only fire at certain radials. Lots of different fun features suitable for all ages and the water streams aren't as high powered as those at Chidlren's Garden at Garden's By the Bay.

Some of the elements were in fact identical if not similar to those found at Splash  at the Shangrila, but totally free here! Will definitely return for a great time out for fun, sand and play.
 
You might also be interested in these great free water play parks in Singapore.
 
P.S
Soak in the amazing view from the 30th floor.

Click here ABBA location of Play @ Heights Park 144 Lor 2 Toa Payoh, Block 144, Singapore 310144
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Melbourne - To Eat 28April22 (Vietnamese Pho at Tan Thanh Loi , LUNE Croissanterie)

Melbourne - To Stay
 Melbourne - To Do
 Melbourne - To Eat
Melbourne - To Eat
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Tan Thanh Loi 
 Vietnamese Pho
Recommended by Eileen.T
and also one of the top Pho places in Melbourne. 
 
Ordered On:
27April22
14AUD Lemon Grass Pork with Broken Rice

*The broken rice gives a nice fried rice/clay pot flavor and purely textural feel to the dish. The lemon grass pork is sweet and succulent. It came as one of the must order dishes and I absolutely agree. Sweet on sweet dipping sauce is fantastic with the simple fare.*

*The most tender beef had! The soup broth is a little on the sweet side personally but everything else was incredible. Loads of vegetables as expected and serving sizes were HUGE!*
Total about AUD45
Food 4/5
Ambience 3.5/5 4/5 if you're going old school authentic.
Service 3.5/5
Value 4.5/5
*By Aussie standards, food portions are huge and can feed one very well or shared between two for a med-light meal*
Lived up to the hype, value and really excellent Pho. Its the quality of produce here in Australia that supersedes even original Vietnam Phos.

The most tender serving of Beef in Pho had. These two orders are a must! The place would give popular Pho joint, Pho Tan Hoa in SFO a run for its money for sure.
LUNE Croissanterie
Recommended by Alan.H and E.T
 
There are two location to this place. One in the heart of town but the one we visited was in Fitzroy which was nearer to the Melbourne Museum and had a larger seating space. (Though we had it took go)

Lune is insanely popular and reportedly the best croissants in the world! We arrived at about 9am and Cruffins were completely sold out! (Doors open 7.30/8am) You might be interested in Hardware Societe, MEL to get cruffins or Mr Holmes Bake house in SFO for this amazing treat! Mr Holmies has a daily cruffin countdown timer on their website to each day's unique flavor.

Ordered On:
30thApril22
Lemon Shaker
AUD13.50
May special - twice baked croissant filled with lemon almond frangipane and lemon curd and topped with slivered almonds and torched Italian meringue.
 
*This was over the moon amazing. Ignoring the price, that candied lemon and curd was perfectly balanced. Not overly sweet and the refreshing lemony accents shown through. A sinful pleasure!*
2 Croissant AUD6.20
1 Ham&Gruyere AUD9.70
Hot Chocolate and Latte
Total about 60AUD
Food 4.5/5
Service na
Ambience na
Value 3/5
This was a treat for sure. Almost equivalent to a full priced meal for the family but flavor wise its incomparable. There's something distinctively different about the flakiness of the croissants prepared over three days. A nice, crispy shell exterior that snaps off as you bite into it. Is the priced justified?

A little on the indulgence side but will still recommend to others to try for sure!
 
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Friday, May 13, 2022

Melbourne - To Do 26April22-03May22 (Melbourne Hol Werribee Open Range Zoo, South Melbourne Market, SEA Life Aquarium, Hosier Lane Street Art, St Paul's Cathedral, Puffing Billy Railway, Melbourne Museum, Carlton Gardens, Cheetham Wetlands)

Melbourne - To Stay
 Melbourne - To Do
 Melbourne - To Eat
Melbourne - To Do
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Day1
(Arrival Day)
SQ227 2200-0725  arrival
26thApril22 Tue
As of time of posting there are a couple of changes. For Singaporeans traveling into Australia, a travel VISA is required.

Australia seemingly doesn't entertain third party applications anymore. We did ours via official channels which goes at AUD20 per head.

Even in a semi post pandemic world, there basically are only two apps which are required largely for form filling when entering Melbourne. Only via desktop could we upload our globally recognized COVID vaccination slip which can be easily retrieved via https://www.notarise.gov.sg/.

Please check the latest requirements for the country you are visiting.

ABBAtip Melbourne
- Stick as best as you can to the speed limit. Its their cash cow. Sometimes there are parked vehicles by the road side but they are loaded with cameras sensors to catch speeders. *NOTE SPEED can be slow like 40km/60km/80km on LONG beautiful straight roads. Its very tempting but stick to the speeds to avoid fines*
- Note that there are tolled highways, so if you're using google maps and wanna avoid these tolls, just remember to select them in the settings.
- Its not 24-7. Always check if the attractions you are visiting or places you intend to dine are are open.
First day on arrival, we pretty much explored our local surroundings, enjoyed the sprinkling of wildlife at the nearby wetlands and the many kid friendly playgrounds located wherever we ate and shopped. First step was basic breakfast supplies from the nearest Coles/Woolies.


*Cool doubleseater trolleys*

*Local Swamphen*
*Saltwater Coast Crocodile Park*

Day2
27thApril22 Wed
Werribee Open Range Zoo
Open daily 0900-1700hrs
(Best enjoyed on good weather days
as almost all areas are un-sheltered and open air)
Click here for latest pricing Adults AUD40/Child (4-15) AUD20 (0-3) Free
Children under 16 receive free entry on weekends, Victorian public holidays and Victorian Government school holidays,



*Great for viewing the Safari from either side.*
*Really fun ride for the adults and kids with a good view of a range of animals. Not exactly a genuine safari but it being my first time, experience was really a positive one. Click here for write up on the real deal in Johannesburg. The safari runs hourly so don't worry on missing out. Just stroll up at the next available slot. However do take note that the first one out was specifically tailored to the young ones.*
The Zoo's layout is designed in a very explorative way. It's kind of a mix up between Disney Land thematic play corners, mock-ups and the animal enclosures.
Its wonderful that the maps give a guide how long each route takes and all of them are very leisurely and manageable. The playgrounds ever present near the eateries help in children management.

*Food's pretty good too!*
Would highly recommend this 'open range Zoo' experience over conventional ones. Free parking is available on-site and a full day would just about well cover the attrction.
ABBATip:
- Masks was needed for the up close cat show so bring spare mask along just in case. The animals can still catch COVID.
Click here for ABBA Location of Werribee Range Open Zoo
 
Day3
28thApril22 Thu
Scienceworks
Open Daily 1000hrs-1630hrs
Free for children under 3


*There are add-on shows as the Planetarium which are age appropriate. We skipped the lightning room as it maybe a little too jarring for the young ones.*
Click here for ABBA location of Scienceworks 2 Booker St, Spotswood VIC 3015, Australia

*Hundreds of light switches to mimic the lights of building.*
*Fun sports section where you learn about the body and can test yourself against the clock and where you 'stand' physically.
*Absolute fun to custom build eco cars which
were projected above in the massive gallery*

*Feeling the effects of Vertigo*
*Feel that base.*
*Snow simulation and wind*

Scienceworks where almost everything can be touched and interacted with. A great time for the whole family.
You might also be interested in Singapore Science Center which is just as well stocked, click here for the full write up.
The pumping station was built in the 1890s and was a key component of the Melbourne Sewerage Scheme.

It's historic grandeur space was a joy to explore the space and faint lingering smells. Imagine these mega machines operating at that time.This offered history and architecture for the adults to enjoy too. (Entry is included in the tickets)
*The ongoing restoration of the Melbourne Telescope*
*Dining options are limited to pies, sandwiches which can be re-heated on request. Fresh coffee is always available.*
Worth the visit especially so with little ones. Almost everything was interactive, child friendly and the pumping station was particularly interesting for the adults to enjoy.

There maybe better planetariums, but it could be the kid-friendly screening that lacked luster for me at least. The night sky demonstration, however was very enjoyable.
You might be interested in Nagoya's Planetarium. 
Click here for seeing the milky way with the naked eye at Lake Tekapo
Click here for ABBA location of Scienceworks, 2 Booker St, Spotswood VIC 3015, Australia

Day4
29thApril22 Fri
South Melbourne Market
MON TUE THUR CLOSED
The South Melbourne Market has been a favorite landmark since 1867 where people congregate for food, drinks and things to shop and discover. It maybe smaller than the other famous Queen Victoria Market but it is older. 
 *Nice art work scattered around and its really nice that they have these side welcoming side benches and tables which encourages grabbing a bite/snack and enjoy the surrounding. We're having famous Agathe croissants for breakfast.*
*Trying three different tasting oysters at about 2AUD+ each with convenient condiments bar for maximum enjoyment.*
*The fishmongers here seem more friendly that over at QVM, offering massive shrimp samplers to the kids and offered to take this candid shot with lobster in hand for the family.*
*Beautiful sweet massive Uni at AUD10
You might be interested in Uni presented in Kuroumon Market Osaka*
*Welcoming tourist after such a long hiatus, vendors were delighted to give small tokens to the kids.*
Though the deli, meat and seafood section ain't as extensive or offer value buys as over at QVM, the charm of South Melbourne Market more than makes up for it. With its eclectic street murals, random seating for anyone and unique shop offerings. It has its distinct charm and worth checking out this smaller, but older market.
Great for small bites and exploration, not really for value meat purchases. Its more artisanal. 
Click here for South Melbourne Market 322-326 Coventry St, South Melbourne VIC 3205, Australia

Queen Victoria Market
MON WED Closed
Generally open form 6am-3pm Sunday 9am-4pm
*Remember to pay your parking before exiting*

*prices of the beef have shot up significantly due to
COVID and time of our visit*
*Hannah from over 5years back and still going strong*
An oldie but a goodie. Do look out for the occasional night market events.
The prices of meat have gone up significantly during the COVID period but still are value buys in my opinion.
Click here for full write up on QVM.
Click here for ABBA location of Queen Victoria Market
 
Day5
30thApril22 Sat
SEA Life Aquarium
https://www.visitsealife.com/melbourne/tickets-passes/
AUD47/Adult (Weekends)
AUD32/Child (weekends)

*Nice capsules for kids to really get up close and personnel with the sea life*

*I've seen bigger*
Overall, way too pricey. What's nice was that the displays allow for up close viewing of the sea-life which in itself was relatively limited. The greatest excitement was the rescue of the injured ray captured on video as the staff on hand came down to evacuate it for medical attention.
*Watch video above for the rescue*
At that asking price, there are way more impressive aquariums that wow and awe. For other more impressive aquariums, consider Osaka Aquarium, and highly recommended Monterey Bay Aquarium in San Francisco, both of which unique in their design and presentation.

Take the City Tram!
35 Citytram FREE every 15mins
(Or any city tram within the free zone)
Runs Every 15min from 0939-1754hrs
Trams are free within the Free Tram zone. (Its quite dinstintively marked at the stations and announcements on the tram) We were aiming for the classic 35 which runs in a circuit but missed. (The tram stop is located right in front of SEA life aquarium)
You might be interested in other famous cable car rides like in San Fran which charges USD6 one way. Click here for full write up.
*We settled for any city tram ride*

Hosier Lane Street Art
(One of many street arts in Melbourne to be enjoyed. This is located beside the famous Tapas joint, MoVida. Click here for full review)

 St Paul's Cathedral Melbourne
 

Day6
1stMay22 Sun
Puffing Billy Railway Steam Train

(Preferred Fri Sat Sun Due earlier 10am departure timing)
Fri/Sat/Sun then have 10am departure.
Belgrave to Menzies Creek Return AUD91.50
Belgrave to Lakeside Return
10:00hrs/11:00hrs/12:30hrs (We went for this!)
Return Family AUD153.50
 Click here for official ticketing, routes and details!
ABBATip:
- Parking is limited so arrive as instructed (an hour before departure time.) It works out nicely with some train exploration, photo taking and enjoying the grandeur of the steam train! It has that magical ha
- Follow the instructions of where to park. They do send you and email and reminder message of the details.
- To maximize your transit time which honestly isn't a lot. Either pack food or order to go if able.
- Right side gets the amazing bridge view on the way out from Belgrave.

Absolutely a must go! Historically and completely self funded and sustained by ticket prices and volunteers.
The trains used to transport crucial supplies and the historic, picturesque write-ups add that depth of wonder in enjoying the authentic rail ride whilst enjoying the Australian bush and landscape.
*Yes adults can hang over the edge too! Only kids >4yrs of age are allowed to sit on the edge with supervision.*


*Topping up water for the return journey at Lakeside*
*Lake side cafe does serve up some good eats thou*

*Try to pack-and-go or bring food cause the 1.5hr transit time was barely enough time to enjoy the place. After picture taking of the steam train refueling and washroom break, 30mins just blew past.*

 *Waiting for the train ride back.*
Highly recommended! Amongst the other authentic steam train rides researched this seems to be the most known and of historic significance.

Feel the grit in your teeth as the puffing hot steam and coal particulate shooting out from the top. (Its the smell similar to that at a gun range.) Enjoy the pull of the locomotive with carriages of happy train riders through the Australian bush and scenery. Best view of the bridge will be on the right on the way out, but you'll get to enjoy both sides of the scenery when you switch for the return journey. A must when in Melbourne!

Day7
30thApril22 Sat
Melbourne Museum
TUE WED (Closed)
9:30 Weekend /10:00 Mon,Thur Fri SAT SUN -1700hrs
Open Daily 0900-1700hrs
Adult AUD15
Children Free

*Having some breakfast outside before heading in*

Click here for the ABBA Location of the Melbourne Museum
ABBATip:
- Parking is available at the museum itself and if you enter between 530am-10am, its 13AUD till midnight. Beyond that it gets ridiculously expensive. Click here for the latest charges.
- There's a kid friendly indoor playground in the museum which helps burn of that extra energy, great for kids before or after hitting the various exhibits.

*Singapore also has its own mini whale fossil at the Lee Kong Chian Natural History Museum*
*Beautiful screen projections for an immersive experience*

*This piece had a captivative aura about it that the other fossil replicas didn't hold.*
*How gears worked in all its shapes and forms through the ages*
A wonderful museum that had a little something for everyone to explore. Displays are mostly interactive and really fun for all ages. The kid play area was a nice touch for kids to blow off additional energy. 
 
The top natural history museum by far has still got to be the London Museum of Natural History. 
Click here for the ABBA Location of the Melbourne Museum
 
Carlton Gardens
 (Located in the same location, in front of the Royal Exhibition Building)
We were fortunate to catch a sea of autumn leaves which the kids absolutely enjoyed running about. The place reminds me of the open spaces in Hyde Park.

Day8
3rdMay22 Tue (Departure Day)
Cheetham Wetlands

Not really a drive out of your way to see attraction but as we stayed near by, it was a very pleasant, tranquil explorative walk to cap off the fantastic holiday in Melbourne as a family after a long two year hiatus due Covid. Till the next adventure.  
SQ228 1540-2130 departure
Click here for write up of Perth Holiday which has cheap car rentals!
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