Tioman Island Escapade Itinerary Day 3

This blog entry is a continuation of "Tioman Island Escapade". If you have not checked out the second part of the 3D 2N itinerary, kindly do so by clicking here.

 

0800hr

Gently awaken by the soft sunlight that peeked through the lodge's white curtains, I rubbed my sleepy eyes, dragged myself out of bed and cleaned-up before waking Peiyi up. I opened the door expecting a mess caused by the monkeys again, but everything was peaceful. Looks like the residents have learnt their lesson. The other four friends were more or less awoke and after 10 minutes or so, we were ready for breakfast.

 

0900hr

The weather was beautiful and breezy that day, with gentle waves hitting the shore. Everyone except Peiyi and I went for the last snorkelling session, while the two of us decided to have a romantic stroll along the beach.

 

 

We reached a part of the beach where the dead corals and sea shells covered the sands. We also took the chance to collect some free souvenirs back home.

 

And even found a shell THIS BIG!

 

0930hr

The snorkelling gang finished their fish-googling trip and we headed back to our lodges for a quick bath and to pack-up our baggages.

 

1030hr

Not forgetting to get some souvenirs back home, we went to the duty-free shop located just a minute walk away from the resort. Some ideal souvenirs to bring back are little crafts and trinkets, local snacks, duty-free liquer and cigars (subjected to individual countries; some might impose a tax on the items) or a quirky Tioman T-shirt.

 

Not recommended: I got a dyed batik cloth for Mama Kook, but the colors fade off after a few wash.

1200hr

We checked out of the resort and proceeded to have lunch at the seafood restaurant manned by an old couple. As Tioman depends heavily on imports, this restaurant only serves a variety of home-cooked dishes depending on the imports for that day. We ran out of luck again when they told us crabs weren't available.

 

Although service was slow (can't blame them), food was generally good and the price was pretty reasonable as well. Compared to other restaurants in Paya, I'd ranked this one the best.

 

After a hearty lunch, why not grab some Wall's Magnum ice-cream again?

 

1345hr

The time when we bid farewell to the beautiful island has arrived. Although it rained on the second day, we had absolute fun trying out snorkelling and exploring this beautiful island. What's more? I made two new friends, Soull and Judy!

 

Last group photo at Tioman Island

Our ferry ride was a tad late and only managed to board at about 1430hr.

1900

After another grueling trip back home, we finally crossed the Singapore borders at Woodlands Checkpoint.

Home sweet home.

Tioman Island Escapade Itinerary Day 2

This blog entry is a continuation of "Tioman Island Escapade". If you have not checked out the first part of the 3D 2N itinerary, kindly do so by clicking here.

0730hr

Before my alarm rang, I was awoken by the commotion outside. Apparently a big group of approximately 20 cheeky monkeys were messing with the bins in search of food. Laundries were tossed and rubbish were literally everywhere.

Just a tip - never leave your food outside.

Caught red-handed

0800hr

After washing up, we headed to the dining area at Paya Beach Resort for our long awaited breakfast. The food was sub-par, with the potatoes and pancakes being really terrible. The omelettes and sunny side-up were good though, just a bit too oily for my liking.

0900hr

We headed back to our lodges to change attires and equipments for the snorkelling tour. We got on the boats at the jetty, anyway we were late so we had to wait until everyone has boarded the boats. It stopped at 3 different destinations where we got off the boats and snorkelled around the area.

The weather was not ideal for snorkelling that day - the sea was too choppy and most of the fishes had went into hiding. Nevertheless, we got the chance to admire the marine life. The assorted corals were definitely more beautiful than yesterday's. You can also bring along bread to feed the fishes, watch them as they snatched the food off your fingers!

We had to wait for the sky to clear at the last station (Salang) before returning back to Paya. Anyway do check out their marine park centre, where you get to see interesting artifacts and learn more about the marine life. Admission is free of charge.

1500hr
After cleaning up and changing to fresh outfits, it's time for lunch.

(From left): Victor, Jesline, Peiyi, Thomas, Soull, Judy

Our stomachs were terribly grumpy after an exhausting snorkelling trip. We chanced upon a restaurant selling local cuisine located just at the jetty, where we had Tom Yum Noodles and plates of fried rice. At that point of time, I guessed we were too hungry that everything tasted good. The rice was a tad dry though.

Mamak Nasi Goreng, which translates loosely to Mama's Fried Rice is pretty satisfying. It is similar to the previous one, but is like an upgraded version with stronger flavour and chilli padi added.

Do take note that they also provide diving and snorkelling packages as well.

1700hr

Venture into the forest trail where it leads to the Rock Fall. There are lots of direction signs and an obvious pathway, so follow that route and you'll be fine. The Rock Fall is a miniature version of a waterfall, where one can even enjoy a cool dip there. Be careful as the rocks and stones are pretty slippery.

There are also a lot of pesky bugs along the way, hence insect repellent is highly recommended.

1800hr

We continued our exploration towards the beach as the sun begins to set beyond the horizon. The sunset is beautiful, but I prefer the orange/purple-hued skies at Langkawi.

And the girls doing the classic jump shot.

There were a few interesting specimens we found, including a lifeless jellyfish that was washed ashore. Poor dude.

 

Just look at the amazing details on this corals! (It made my skin crawls though.)

 

 

 

1900hr

As the tide lowers, more rocks become visible. Admire the simple beauty of rock formations.

We even did our version of 那些年 right here on the rocks.

2000hr

Just before dinner, we did a quick wash-up. The dilemma came on us again - what's for dinner? And ended up choosing the Western cuisine at the resort. Their grills and steaks were not cheap and standards were below average, however they did well on the Fish & Chips.

There is a place where you could play billiard as well, a mini swimming pool for a light swim after dinner or get a torchlight to explore the tide-receded lands. Most of the convenience stores sell torchlights or other lighting device, so fret not if you did not bring along your lights. But we chose to get some alcohol (they are real cheap there) and snacks, and just chill out at the lodge instead.

0000hr

Lights out.

For Tioman Island Escapade Itinerary Day 3, please kindly click here.

Tioman Island Escapade Itinerary Day 1

Being a beach-loving person, Tioman has always been on my travel list. Known as one of the most beautiful island in the world and measuring more than 133sq kilometres, Tioman is the largest in a volcanic group of islands off the east coast of peninsular Malaysia.

Take a moment and picture the beauty of nature - lush tropical rainforest with countless streams and waterfalls surrounded by beaches of soft white sand and clear blue water. Hear the chirping of birds, the genuine laughter of children having fun and gentle sounds of waves. Welcome to paradise.

Somewhen in July 2012, after doing the necessary booking of travel and accommodation through Discovery Tours and Travel Pte Ltd, five friends and I embarked on a 3D2N snorkelling trip to Tioman.

Day 1

0645hr

We got on the coach that arrived just outside DFS Galleria Orchard. Upon reaching the Malaysia customs, we had a quick 30-minutes breakfast, there were more toilet breaks subsequently. Please kindly note that there will be a RM5.00 marine park conservation fee charged at the Mersing ferry terminal.

1300hr

After a gruelling 4-hours bus and near 2-hours ferry ride, we finally reached our destination - the beautiful Tioman island. Although the locals understand basic English, knowing how to converse in Melayu helps a great deal.

 

 

 

Our night's stay, Paya Beach Resort is effortlessly located about 5 minutes walk from the ferry terminal, with nearby convenience stores and eateries.

 

 

1330hr

We checked into our standard lodges at Aman Damai Wing, conveniently located just a minute walk away from the beach. There is a spa house by the resort as well, but we shunned away upon looking at the prices.

 

There were a few komodo dragons roaming about. But if left undisturbed, these fierce-looking reptiles are generally "peace creatures".

 

 

Not to forget, the friendly furry resident.

 

 

 

All the standard lodges are built on top of the boardwalk and are card-key activated. Our room was slightly dirty, where the ants and cobsweb are a huge turn-off. But what can I expect for the low price? One good thing is that it comes equipped with basic toiletries, including shampoo, shower gel, toilet paper etc.

 

Please don't mind the mess 

1400hr
While you were  there, do not forget to try the authentic Malaysia Ramly burger at the restaurant located just in front of the port. Juicy meat patty and crunchy greens sanwiched in between two crispy fried burger buns. I had their signature King Ramly (RM5.50), which simply means double patties.

1500hr

There were a few vendors within the area that specializes in snorkelling and diving rental and other services. Their rates are quite competitive, so you might want to check out different ones. However, in the end we chose the one located just beside the resort reception (just to be safe.) Besides renting the equipments and kayaks, we also signed up for tomorrow's day snorkelling tour around the island, which includes 3 points of interest (RM60.00).

 New found friends, Soull and Judy posing with their snorkelling gears

1530hr

We then kayaked away (approx 50 metres) from the shore, put on our snorkelling gears and jumped into the water. It was my virgin experience on snorkelling by the way. While there were little fishes and a bed of discoloured corals, it felt amazing able to see and feel the other dimension underwater. Some of us were disappointed at the declining quality, but nevertheless we enjoyed the kayaking.

The sun sets and the darkness rises

1800hr

We headed back for a shower and quick rest before planning what's for dinner. Shower taps are readily available outside every single lodge for a quick feet wash, but we cleverly overturned the tap to uh.. do a shower dance.

Yours truly and Victor having a bromantic shower outside

1900hr

Why not take the chance to cam-whore a bit while the other four are still preparing? As you can see (unclearly), Girlfriend Peiyi is wearing a green-dyed batik dress, which she bought earlier on at the Mersing ferry terminal for RM20.00.

1915hr

After much discussion, we decided to settle for seafood dinner at the resort. There were lots of foreigners (especially Caucasians) enjoying the romantic ambience as much as the food. We had Barbequed Sting Ray, Chilli Prawns, Sambal Kang Kong and a mixed of Beef and Chicken satays.

The meal was satisfying and slightly cheaper than Singapore. If you do not take spicy food, kindly do inform the staff, as they love to put spice in almost everything.

Satay cheers for an awesome trip

Before I forget this point:

The almighty Magnum ice-cream costs only RM4.00 (S$1.60) at the convenience store!

2130hr

We headed back to their lodge, where we "talked cock and sang song". The Mediacorp's Save My World song was popular back then and we kept singing it to the tunes of Victor's guitar and my terrible ukulele skills.

2300hr

Peiyi and I went back to our lodge. Lights out.

For Tioman Island Escapade Itinerary Day 2, please kindly click here.

Queen & Mangosteen @ Vivocity, Singapore

This British-influenced pub surely has an unique name - queen and mangosteen, you might ponder what is the link between those two. There is a rumour that the mangosteen was reputedly Queen Victoria's favourite fruit, and apparently she allegedly offered a reward to anyone who can bring this purple fruit to her. Hence, the clever name, but do not be mistaken for they do not sell any mangosteens (or queens) here.

Located within Vivocity with a spectacular paronomic view of the scenic waterfront and Sentosa, Queen & Mangosteen has one of the best ambience among the lesser atas restaurants. Upon entering, you'll be greeted by huge chalkboards with today's specials and promotions, plush couches, high tables and bench seatings which creates the contemporary British pub setting. It is half air-conditioned and half al-fresco, completed with an ornate island bar that overlooks the beautiful waterfront.

Without futhur ado, we ordered their signature Fresh Mesclun Salad (S$12.00), paired with roasted Roma tomatoes, pear and walnuts, Stilton Blue Cheese and drizzled with balsamic vinaigrette. I thought that this refreshing appetizer was texture-rich, the sweet crunch of pear and walnuts, the bright crisp of the greens, the sour chewiness from the tomato and cheese, and not to mention that the elements complemented each other as a whole.

Next up, I had Sirloin Steak (S$32.00) completed with thick cut chips, Yorkshire pudding, garden vegetables and served with mushroom pepper sauce. Like always, I had my steak's doneness at medium. It was firm and chewy, but I was disappointed as the meat was drier than expected. (I had to eat with lots of mushroom sauce.) The pudding was slightly crispy with a tad of grease on the exterior and soft inside, it tasted so good.

Peiyi had one of their most acclaimed pub grub, Fish & Chips (S$16.00) served with homemade curry tartare sauce. The fish fillets used were fresh and coated in a light crispy batter, however their tartare sauce was of mediocre standard only. The potato chips were thicker than the usual and has a nice crunch to it.

Queen & Mangosteen also serve quite an extensive menu of alcoholic beverages here, one might want to order some pub grubs to go along with your drink. Perfect for drink buddies.

Overall, the food standard is above average, thumbs-down for value wise, but it definitely scores big on it's picturesque ambience.

Queen & Mangosteen

Tel: +65 6376 9380

Opening Hours

Sun–Thu: 11am – Midnight
Fri–Sat & PH Eve: 11.30am – 1am

1 Harbourfront Walk
#01-106/107
Vivocity

The Handburger @ Raffles City, Singapore

One of the restaurants that left a huge impression on me is this casual fast-food chain. Not only because of the food, but The Handburger (Somerset 313) was where I brought my first date for a simple dinner.

Their mains include the burger, a garden salad (with or without bacon) or soup of the day. The salad was refreshing and crisp, but the bacon strips were too hard and chewy for my liking. The cream of chicken with crispy crumbs (soup for that day) definitely makes a better choice.

Anyway, I ordered one of their classics, Handburger Original (S$13.80) - 150g of 100% NZ grass-fed prime beef on a bed of crispy lettuce, cheddar cheese, topped up with homemade BBQ sauce and sweet onion jam. The beef patty was exploding with juices, and I want to rave about their toasted caramelised onion bun. It is that good. Crispier than the usual boring buns, it also brings along the frangrance of onions.

One of my friends ordered the Blue Cheese Beef Burger (S$17.80) - the same juicy patty, topped with roasted pear, blue cheese, homemade BBQ sauce and sweet onion jam. I would recommend the Handburger Original over this though.

We also had their signature creation, The Works (S$17.80) - same patty, topped with battered onion rings, crispy bacon strips, sunny side-up, sauteed basil pesto mushroom, sweet onion jam, melted cheddar cheese, homemade BBQ and aioli sauce. A little of everything, this ingenious burger is the perfect choice if you are still deciding what to eat after an hour.

To complete your meal, add in their Nutella Milkshake with Marshmellow (S$4.50), a chocolatey, thick drink with soft marshmellows to go with. Just to add on, they have a loyalty program (THB Fanatics) designed to reward their diners with points, which can be redeemed to offset future bills, and other special promotions too.

Definitely one of the dining places I will frequent occasionally, for old times sake and the affordable, yet quality burgers as well.

The Handburger

Tel: +65 6334 4577

Opening Hours

Sun–Thu: 11.30am – 10pm
Fri–Sat: 11.30am – 10.30pm

252 North Bridge Rd

#B1-65/66

Raffles City Shopping Centre