PANORAMAS: Singapore May 2014

Easily my favourite trip ever.

In the recent years I found that I don't enjoy family vacations as much as I used to when I was a kid. It's at times much more stressful than it is relaxing, especially if you don't visit the place frequently. So being able to go on this trip on my own was very refreshing. I also visited a friend that I haven't seen since 2012, and it was nice to catch up and go around Singapore together. Thank you for everything, Summer!

My only regret is that I should have stayed longer - 5 days is not enough!

Shoppes, Marina Bay Sands

Viewdeck, Marina Bay Sands

Cloud Conservatory, Gardens by the Bay

Singapore Flyer, Marina Bay Sands, and Merlion

Zhongshan Mall, Balestier Road

Stay tuned for my complete travel post!

Saturday, May 17, 2014

PANORAMAS: Singapore May 2014

By Pauline Read More

PANORAMAS: Seoul & Busan April 2014

If I had to describe this family trip, I would use these words:

Impulsive as this was planned only four months prior, unlike most family trips which are planned a year before. 

Hectic as I was mostly the one planning and managing everything, from booking plane tickets and accommodations, to making the itinerary, taking everyone around, and making sure that everyone is happy. Though admittedly I do enjoy organising trips, I would have wanted at least one day on my own to explore.

A reminder. Since the last time I visited in Seoul which was 2011, I felt like revisiting this city again wouldn't be as exciting as it was the first time. Within the time in between I grew up and started liking different things, and felt myself losing interest whatever South Korea had to offer. Upon returning however I was reminded of just how much I loved the city, its people, and why I considered wanting to live there at some point in my life. Just like last time, I never wanted to leave.

As a preview, here are panoramas of some of the places we've visited. 

광안리대교, 부산 | Gwangalli Bridge, Busan

청계천 | Cheonggye Stream, Seoul

반포대교 & 한강 | Banpo Bridge & Han River, Seoul

롯데월드 | Lotte World, Seoul

이화여자대학교 | Ewha Women's University, Seoul

It was spring when we arrived. I thought the cold would be a little more bearable than the last time I went (which was during the fall) however, during our stay we experienced what the locals referred to as a "fake spring", where temperatures ranged between 9-13°C during the day and 2-6°C in the evening. What I wouldn't give for that kind of weather versus the hot, humid (and occasionally rainy) weather we're having now!

© All photos taken by me using an iPhone 5s

Saturday, April 26, 2014

PANORAMAS: Seoul & Busan April 2014

By Pauline Read More