Tag Archives: travel

Crystal Endeavor 水晶奋进号

October 3, 2018 EZ Malaysia

The largest and most spacious purpose-built Polar Class ship

全球最大艘的探险游艇

Set to debut in 2020, Crystal Endeavor will be the largest and most spacious purpose-built Polar Class ship featuring Crystal’s celebrated service and hospitality, all-suite (100 suites only), butler-serviced accommodations, and unmatched choices for bold adventure in the world’s most remote destinations.

预定在2020年正式下水服役的水晶奋进号将是全球最大艘的探险游艇，同时具备水晶邮轮的服务特质丶全套房设计（仅100间套房）丶提供管家服务，以及具备极地探险的能力。

Crystal-Endeavor_Fitness-Center — Fitness Center

The dining experience on board is a highlight on this luxury expedition yacht from Crystal Cruises. Specialty restaurants will include Prego, which serves traditional Italian fare, and will also host Crystal’s signature “Vintage Room” winemaker dinners; and Umi Uma, which serves signature sushi and specialties from Master Chef Nobu Matsuhisa.

Additionally, the yacht features elegant main dining venue, Waterside; the Asian-inspired Silk Kitchen & Bar, located in the two-story solarium during the evenings; and the European-inspired Bistro Café, which will offer full service breakfast and lunch. It is a go-to spot for freshly brewed espresso and teas.

水晶邮轮对餐饮的讲究也是水晶奋进号的特色之一，特色餐馆中还包括有帕戈意大利餐厅丶水晶招牌的复古餐厅葡萄酒晚宴，以及日本名厨松久幸信规划的 Umi Uma 亚洲餐厅所提供的特色寿司。

同时，游艇中的主餐厅是奢华极致的 Waterside 餐厅，而这两层高落地窗的空间，在傍晚则是丝路亚洲餐厅；至于早餐及午餐则是在欧式咖啡厅享用，同时不缺顶级咖啡与茶任君选择。

Crystal Endeavor’s PC6 designation will enable her to operate in summer and autumn through medium first-year ice. The ship features the latest technological advancements, including offshore dynamic positioning capabilities, offering both comfort and safety while exploring the icy waters in the Polar Regions as well as exotic locations across the globe.

拥有 PC6 破冰等级的水晶奋进号可在夏秋两季应付极地当年中冰。游艇具备最现近的设施及装备，这包括海上动力定位能力，以确保在极地川行时的安全。

EZ 48 - Mind Philosophy, EZ 61 (2)

When People Unite 民群集居的力量

November 10, 2017 EZ Malaysia Leave a comment

The Tulou in Fujian and Diaolou in Guangzhou provinces were self-built structures by the locals who were mainly living outside the fort located deep inside the hilly or mountain areas. Both of these amazing architectural wonders were inscribed as UNESCO World Heritage Sites in 2007 and 2008. Today, these heritage sites are becoming more of a tourist attraction than a residential area as they have attracted visitors from different parts of the world.

In the past, the commoners were given protection by the emperors in forts but constant wars among the different quarters battling to eliminate one another had led to the shift of commoners to the southern regions such as Fujian and Guangdong provinces. There, the people began to build their new homes but unfortunately they were met with robbers and bandits. As such, the people themselves decided to build a ‘big house’ so that they could stay together. It was a show of strength and a great example of how everyone could be protected by sheer unity. Besides, the most interesting elements about these structures were the escape routes and embrasures.

福建的土楼和广州的开平碉楼分别在 2008 年和 2007 年被列入世界遗产名录。年轻的一代去旅游，或会问大老远的去看这些古老建筑，除了拍拍照片，那里还有什么。

游览土楼、碉楼，最深刻的印象就是那许多防御的射击孔。那是一般现代化的‘家’都没有的，因为众多的我们幸运的不是活在乱世中。

土楼和碉楼的存在，除了是历史遗迹、民风文化，最原始的理由却是为了生存。团结就是力量，因而有了这种人类群集居住在一起的案例。这两种特色的古老建筑冒出来的时代并不相同，用的建筑材料也有所不同，却都主要是为了防卫而建设。

土楼是宋元时期出现的类似古堡的建筑。族群因为躲避战乱，由中国北部移民到南部而群聚一楼。有些土楼除了通声口、枪口，还有暗道、暗门等以备逃命。

It was a show of strength and a great example of how everyone could be protected
by sheer unity.

团结就是力量，因而有了这种人类群集居住在一起的方式。

The Fujian Tulou or simply known as ‘earth buildings’ were built during the Sung dynasty and its building materials relied heavily on available raw materials such as stones, wood, bamboos and most important, the sand, soil and clay. These buildings come in all shapes and sizes depending on the earth structure and the weather in that area. The main purpose is to create a strong structure with sufficient ventilation and light. In short, these Tulou were well-structured and safe for residents while able to house between 200 to 800 people.

The Hakka and Minan villagers in Fujian were those responsible for constructing these buildings. The buildings could be distinguished in two categories, one being the standalone unit and the other being the cluster type. Although there were many Tulou in the province, only 46 were regarded as UNESCO World Heritage Sites.

Eryilou, also known as ‘The King of Tulou’, was the largest single unit built in 1770 consisting of four floors from the outside layer and another floor inside. It possesses an impressive outer ring diameter of 71 metres with 48 rooms on each level. Tourists are allowed to visit this building where the residents offer a wide range of local handmade products and souvenirs. Not to mention one would be amazed when walking up and looking into the rooms that were once living quarters. Situated not far from Eryilou were the Nanyanglou and the Dongyanglou. The former is now a museum and the latter was converted to a performing area to entertain and educate visitors on its unique culture.

On the other hand, the Diaolou entered the Chinese architectural scene during the Ming dynasty until right before the end of the Chinese Republic era. Similar to the Tulou, these high towers most combines of Western and Chinese style were built as protection in response to local banditry. There were more than 3,000 of such towers in the past but today, only around 1,800 remain of standing, most of which are unoccupied if not abandoned. The construction of these buildings were mainly funded by overseas Chinese with the hope that their immediate and extended family members could have a safe place to protect themselves when necessary.

土楼的造型有圆形、半圆形、方形、四角形、五角形、交椅形、畚箕形等，各具特色。土楼的建设原料是就地取材的，用的是当地的木头、石头、竹和泥。其建设根据气候地形，精巧的采光、通风，有一定夏寒冬暖的作用，除外还能防风、防震呢！换句话说，那是一个极其实用的安全建设。古时这庞大牢固的单体式的建筑建设，根据大小，可容纳 200-800 人左右。一个土楼，几乎就是一个村落。福建土楼有两种：1）客家土楼、2）闽南土楼。被列入世界遗产名录的有 46 处。土楼又分为单元式，或群土楼。

[二宜楼] 堪称“圆土楼之王”，为福建省单元式闽南土楼的代表，建于清乾隆五年。[二宜楼] 至今还有人居住在里头。大门旁的土墙上印刻着土楼起居应该遵守的条规。往里头走，中间的大广场摆着许多买卖档口，那是一般大伙儿集聚的地方。随着时间变迁，土楼里有着不少中西文化交流的见证：壁画、彩绘、木雕、楹联等等。除了户户供用的梯楼、各住户简朴密集的家、祭拜祖先的厅堂，里头还能看到好一些年迈的妇女健步的扛着重物而行。[二宜楼] 旁是 [南阳楼] – 一座小形圆土楼，目前是《土楼博物馆》。附近另有方形的土楼 [东阳楼]，也作露天民居歌舞剧场，演出有关当地文化风俗的短剧如嫁喜娘等。除外，也有好一些住在土楼外的居民，以旅游业、卖土产、经营农家饭菜为生。

碉楼，是始于明朝，后来民初时期才逐渐发展，总体遍布在开平。许多碉楼是海外华侨生回来资助为村落家人建的。民初时多用于防匪、防洪、抗日、共产党地下活动等等。碉楼最多时达 3000 座，如今只存千余座。也许碉楼的建设很多是隐藏在树林或竹林里，再加上产权不明等问题，不少碉楼已是没人居住的了。

Built with stones, bricks or concrete, these tower-like buildings were very well-equipped with solid prison-like bars and thick metal windows to shelter against any shooting or force entry. Furthermore, there were special embrasures created to take aim at intruders. The Zilicun village was among the best preserved architecture site and it contributed to the largest number of Diaolou recognised by UNESCO. Walking up these old buildings allow visitors to experience how people lived in these tall buildings that were designed not only with relatively small rooms but also narrow staircases with plenty of steps. Nonetheless, the view from the building was breathtaking. Another not-to-be-missed attraction was the luxurious Li Garden with private canal, beautiful gardens and six villas built by a wealthy Chinese emigrant businessman living in the USA. Not forgetting a Diaolou for emergency protection purposes.

The Tulou and Diaolou were once built for protection but today these fine heritage buildings open their doors to the world showcasing what residents in the past would have done to protect their families and belongings. Perhaps the attitude and the unique architecture will be good research and study materials for generations to come.

开平碉楼的建设，融合了中国传统乡村建筑文化与西方建筑文化，有着欧州不同时期不同风格的建筑艺术。开平碉楼种类繁多，若从建筑材料来分，可以分为四种:石楼、夯土楼、青砖楼、混凝土楼。有一些防御的碉楼很高，梯级很多，再有就是那些如牢房的钢窗门、钢铁支、许多的射击孔。

[自立村碉楼] 是景区中最完善碉楼群。想要感受一下碉楼可进去一、两间碉楼逛逛，走一下那些不容易上下的楼梯，看看每一层楼里里外外的情景。不远出的[立园]是一家豪宅，除了建有大小花园、六幢别墅，还有一幢古式碉楼，也就归入碉楼景区之一。

说白了，土楼是把一个村落的人口集聚而成的家，碉楼则一般是过渡时期的避风港。这种人类群集居住在一起的建筑，或许有一天会是未来防御建设的最佳考察项目。

EZ 47 - Mind Philosophy, EZ 61 (2)

Cathay Pacific Unveils New Business Class Lounge

July 5, 2017 EZ Malaysia Leave a comment

MindPhilosophy27 — Cathay Pacific General Manager Product Leslie Lu (centre), General Manager Hong Kong International Airport Liza Ng (left) and General Manager Sales & Distribution Toby Smith pictured at The Pier Business Class Lounge.

Cathay Pacific Airways unveiled its new Business Class Lounge at The Pier in Hong Kong International Airport recently after a comprehensive refurbishment. The luxurious lounge is now larger with seating for 550 people.

The Pier Business Class Lounge is divided into “fast” and “slow” lanes where The Food Hall and The Noodle Bar are located in the “fast” lane. This is where passengers can find an array of food and beverages such as coffee and noodles.

There is also a Tea House especially for those craving a soothing drink amidst a tranquil environment while the slow lane is where passengers can put their feet up in the lounge seating equipped with built-in reading lamp and side tables.

Passengers can freshen up in one of the 14 shower suites and a relaxation room for a calm and stress-free experience in order to wind-down and refresh themselves.

EZ 46 - Mind Philosophy, EZ 61 (2), Mind Philosophy

Uncovering The Taste of Luxury in Bangkok 曼谷奢华品味

April 7, 2017 EZ Malaysia Leave a comment

by CK Lam

Bangkok has a global reputation for world-class restaurants, hotels, luxurious spas and modern shopping malls besides the many points of interest. We explored some at leisure during our trip to the capital of Thailand.

曼谷除了众多享誉全球的闻名景点，还有着世界顶级豪华餐厅、酒店，豪华水疗中心和现代化的购物商场。我们在泰国首都的旅行期间，探索了一些休闲生活方式。

LUXURIOUS STAY
Bangkok is home to many luxurious hotels and a stay at the 5-star Dusit Thani Bangkok on Silom Road was a perfect experience. This luxurious city-center property has travellers living up in style at its Dusit Room and Thai Heritage Suites which combined modern luxury and comfort with classical Thai accents.

Residents of the hotel are treated to relaxing greenery at the historic Lumpini Park, an oasis of serenity and greenery located opposite the hotel. On top of that, the biggest advantage is that the hotel is located within steps from the BTS Skytrain Station and MRT Subway Station – which conveniently connect you to your destination, shopping hubs and entertaining centers.

For those interested in designer items, head to the many retail shrines like EmQuartier, Siam Paragon and Central World Plaza. The EmQuartier is the latest opening to indulge in retail therapy. Leaning towards the more luxury side of Bangkok’s booming mall scene, the mall offers a list of designer brands like Chanel, Fendi, Jimmy Choo, Valentino, Dolce & Gabbana, Louis Vuitton, Gucci, Dior, and Prada.

豪华体验住宿
曼谷是许多顶级豪华酒店的家园，其中位于是隆路 (Silom Road) 的老字号五星级曼谷都喜天阙酒店 (Dusit Thani Bangkok) 显得相当完美。这家市中心豪华酒店的都喜贵宾房和泰式传统套房，分别拥有现代豪华舒适与古典泰式风情。

住宿酒店的客人可以到历史悠久的Lumpini公园放松身心，这是位于酒店对面的宁静绿地。此外，酒店拥有最大地理优势：距离BTS轻轨站和MRT地铁站仅有几步之遥，方便快速到达景点、购物和娱乐中心。

而世界级奢华品牌的集中朝圣地如最豪华商场EmQuartier，暹罗百丽宫(Siam Paragon) 和中央世界广场 (Central World Plaza)。EmQuartier是开启品牌欲望的起点，商场倾向于曼谷蓬勃发展的奢华购物商场面貌，一系列设计师品牌如：香奈儿、芬迪，Jimmy Choo，华伦天奴，杜嘉班纳，古驰，迪奥和普拉达。

Chef Philippe whips up delicious Thai dishes at Benjarong Dusit Thani

CULINARY DELIGHTS
Bangkok has charmed the palates of many foodies with its many distinct food and beverages outlets. If you prefer Thai flavours, the Benjarong housed on the lower lobby of Dusit Thani Hotel offers interesting modern contemporary Thai cuisines that are distinctly Thai at heart. The all-stars of Thai cuisine such as Kaeng Kiew Wan See Krong Neau Toon (sous-vide beef ribs in green curry), Pad Thai and Tom Yum are served here. The chef deconstructed the sour and spicy Tom Yum dish and had the ingredients and garnishing composed in a bowl with a table side pour of the soup. Among the highlights of the dessert include basil ice-cream with fresh pineapple and salty meringue, red rubies and jackfruit with coconut ice-cream, and the mango sticky rice. The revamped nitrogen mango sticky rice is refreshing combined with the accompanying mango sorbet.

Definitely worth checking out is Red Sky, Bangkok’s most iconic sunset look-out spot. Located at the 55th floor of the 5-star Centara Grand hotel, the fast lifts will zip you up to the rooftop restaurant and bar which offers 360-degree amazing city views. Wrap up the day with sunset cocktails and specialties from the menu which features fresh locally-sourced seafood and prime imported steaks. The Prime A3 Japanese Wagyu, and chef’s signature dish Red Sky Surf & Turf Tower are not to be missed. After the meal, sit back and relax with a glass of Royal Coffee. This signature speciality coffee on Red Sky’s menu has its flavour enhanced with cognac, brown sugar and whipped cream.

If you are in the mood for a fine meal of wagyu beef and foie gras without all the pomp and circumstance of a fine-dining outlet, head over to the sumptuous buffet dinner at Espresso. The bistro in Intercontinental Hotel serves fairly international fare. You can expect free flow of the luxurious ingredients from the cooking station alongside array of seafood and assortment of sashimi
and sushi.

When night falls, dressed fashionably and venture out to the world’s first VOGUE Lounge. Located on the six floor rooftop of Mahanakhon Cube, the chill-out space with indoor area and vast al fresco terrace welcomed its first visitors in 2014. Its interior boasts a classic tricolour scheme of black, white and gold, with walls adorned with the brand’s expressive fashion & lifestyle magazine covers. On the other hand, the al fresco terrace is a perfect spot to chill amidst the nearby towering Mahanakhon Tower. For food and drinks, savor classic cocktails, fine wines and fashion bites created by Michelin award winning chef Vincent Thierry. I am drawn to the mini salmon cones with soft delicate salmon tartar accented by fresh salmon roe, almonds and zesty horseradish sauce.

舌尖极致美食
曼谷是许多美食家垂涎之地，集中许多独特美食和饮料餐店。如果热爱泰国风味，住在都喜天阙酒店的食客可前往酒店底层大厅Benjarong餐厅品尝各种走心的泰国美食。泰国美味佳肴最大亮点如Kaeng Kiew Wan See Krong Neau Toon（真空低温青咖喱牛排骨），泰式炒米粉和泰式冬荫功。厨师解构酸辣冬荫功餐点，把配料和饰菜组合到碗里再倒汤。至于重心甜点就是九层塔冰激凌搭配新鲜菠萝和咸香蛋白酥皮筒，石榴和波罗蜜搭配椰子冰淇淋，还有就是芒果糯米饭。而经过改良的液态氮芒果糯米清爽结合芒果汁冰糕。

红色天空（Red Sky）不容错过，这是曼谷最具标志性的日落观景点，位于五星级圣塔拉大酒店（Centara Grand）的55楼，快速的升降电梯到屋顶餐厅和酒吧，360度美妙的城市景观视觉享受。日落鸡尾酒和特色菜肴，包括最生鲜本土海鲜和上佳进口牛排的菜单。 Prime A3级日本和牛，还有厨师的招牌菜：红色天空海陆大餐（Red Sky Surf & Turf Tower）令人赞叹。而饭后来一杯皇家咖啡松弛心情，Red Sky的这款特色咖啡增添干邑，焦糖和生奶油的风味。

假如你迷恋香嫩的和牛肉和鹅肝，却苦于没找到精致餐厅，Espresso丰盛的自助晚餐将会是最佳选择。这家位于洲际酒店（Intercontinental Hotel）的专属酒吧餐厅供应国际美食。除了一系列海鲜与各式各样的生鱼片和寿司，还有更多令人惊艳的豪华食材川流不息从烹饪中心献上。

而在夜幕降临时，配合典雅时尚装扮，我们到世界上第一家VOGUE时尚酒廊（VOGUE Lounge）。在立方大楼（Mahanakhon Cube）6楼的楼顶，这个带有室内区域和宽敞的户外露台休闲酒廊在2014年迎来了第一批旅客。经典黑，白和金色的内部装潢，墙上装饰着VOGUE品牌风格时尚与生活方式杂志封面。另外，户外露台比邻高耸的Mahanakhon塔，创造完美视野环境。至于餐饮菜单，品尝经典鸡尾酒、精致葡萄酒，还有精美点心由米其林获奖厨师Vincent Thierry奉上。我被一道迷你三文鱼卷搭配细腻三文鱼酱，带有新鲜三文鱼籽，杏仁和香浓辣根酱的小食虏获。

SPA & WELLNESS
No trip to Bangkok is complete without spoiling yourself with spa treatments. In the kingdom of beauty, health and pampering, one can visit the many spas and health centers that care for your body, mind and soul. Let Diwana Nurture Spa, and RarinJinda Wellness Spa Resort be part of your pampering journey. At both outlets are spa a la carte menus where one can pamper with custom-designed treatments. After the treatment, you will find yourself sipping tea and enjoying fresh fruits.

Health service and medical care centres are aplenty in Bangkok. The Vitallife Wellness Center, which is part of the Bumrungrad International Hospital, is one such place that can accommodate your health needs. Packages for health screening are offered to suit your needs. Here is also where you can get tailored vitamins and supplements to assist in revitalizing aging and also PRP platelet rich plasma treatment.

水疗法与健康
曼谷旅行少了spa水疗是一种极大的缺憾。在这个优美，健康和呵护的国度，透过许多水疗中心和保健中心的疗程，关爱你的身体，思绪和灵魂。尤其让 Diwana Nurture Spa 和RarinJinda Wellness Spa Resort 成为您舒适旅程的一部分。所有门店拥有水疗单点菜单，在那里尽情享受定制疗程。而在疗程后，还可以松懈自己心情喝杯茶和享受新鲜水果。

曼谷也具备规模性的保健服务和医疗中心。Vitallife Wellness Center 是 Bumrungrad International Hospital 属下保健机构，而其中健康检查套餐也将针对状况满足您的健康需求。除了可以获取定制的维生素补充，并协助恢复活力和PRP富含血小板血浆治疗。

CULINARY CLASSES
There are so many top culinary classes in Bangkok whereby visitors can pick up some cooking skills. Enrol yourself in one of the cooking classes and learn how to dish out some Thai delicacies. With a visit to Naj Cooking School on Thanon Convent, just off of Silom Road, one can prepare the tom yum goong, pomelo salad and phad thai with surprising ease under the guidance of Chef Ohmmy Ayasanond. At the end of the class, it is a feast of cooked dishes spread on the table in its lavishly decorated restaurant.

We enjoyed the phad thai; a dish of lightly charred flat rice noodles, with shrimps, chopped sweet turnip, garlic, tofu, and egg, accompanied by Chinese chives, bean sprout, crushed peanuts and lime wedges. Its sweet-tart flavors are accomplished using tamarind juice, fish sauce and palm sugar.

All in all, my Bangkok experience basking in luxury gives me much lasting pleasure. Even before I reached my home destination, the facilities inside the Suvarnabhumi Airport departure lounge are enough to keep me comfortable and satisfied.

华丽烹饪课程
曼谷开设许多顶级烹饪课程，旅客也可参与学习一些烹饪技能，尤其是泰国美食。在是隆路(Silom Road)参观Thanon Convent附属的Naj烹饪学校，在主厨 Ohmmy Ayasanond的指导下，开始动手烹煮冬荫功，准备柚子沙拉和泰式炒米粉。在课程结束后，装饰华丽的餐厅桌子摆上了菜肴，完全是一个盛宴。我们喜欢泰式炒米粉，配料有扁平米粉、虾仁、萝卜丝、大蒜，豆腐和鸡蛋，还有韭菜，豆芽，碎花生和青柠。它的酱汁风味是使用罗望子果汁，鱼露和椰糖调味完成。

结论是，在曼谷体验奢华体验让人愉快无比。甚至在飞抵我家之前，素万那普(Suvarnabhumi)国际机场出发休息厅足以让我感到舒适和满意。

EZ 42, EZ 42, EZ 61 (2), Mind Philosophy

Quick & Easy Tokyo 东京自由行 PART 2

March 24, 2016 EZ Malaysia Leave a comment

Tokyo prior to 1968 was known as Edo, a small castle town in the 16th century but today it is the world’s most populous metropolis and one of Asia’s must visit destinations for unlimited choice of shopping, entertainment, culture, art and dining. Not to mention the rich history offered by this city to visitors is beyond words can describe. If one only have a few days in Tokyo then…

1968年之前，东京被称为江户，是一个16世纪的小城堡。但是，今天东京是世界上人口最多的大都市，亚洲必访的选择无限之购物、娱乐、文化、艺术和餐饮旅游胜地。暂且不提深厚的历史背景，这个城市给予游客的感觉笔墨难以形容。如果一个人在东京只有几天的时间…

Japan_UenoPark-CMYK edited — Ueno Park 上野公园

Ueno is a good choice for those who seek a walk in the park and a chance to visit a few museums at close proximity. Ueno Park is famous for its cherry blossoms that bloom in Spring and lotuses that flower in Summer. Nearby are the National Museum of Western Art, Tokyo National Museum, Tokyo Metropolitan Museum and the Tokyo Cultural Hall. Children will love the zoo in the park. Next to the Ueno station is the Ameyayokocho Market where one can again wander around shopping for miscellaneous that include clothes, bags, shoes, etc.

对于喜欢在公园散步，参观博物馆的人而言，上野是一个好地方。上野公园因春季樱花和夏天莲花盛开而闻名。附近有国立西方艺术博物馆、东京国立博物馆、东京都市博物馆和东京文化会馆，而孩子们最喜欢公园里的动物园。上野站的下一站是阿美横町市场，你可在这里购买服装、箱包、鞋子等等。

Shinjuku is one of the busiest place in Tokyo where the JR train station here serves more than 3.5 million passengers a day. There are large scale shopping stores such as Time Square, Keio department store, Isetan and many more. It is almost impossible to tell one how to walk around Shijuku as it is a big area with too many shopping and entertainment. Stamina and deep pockets are very much needed in this area.

When the sun sets, then that is the time when Kabukicho comes alive and the dancers strip. The place is relatively safe at night but visitors should be careful of scams and pick pockets. There are a few good Ramen stores around where one can request another two extra ramen noodle free of charge if you have such big stomach.

新宿是东京最繁华的地方，JR火车站每天进出的人次超过350万人。这里有大型购物商场如时代广场、庆应义塾百货、伊势丹等等。由于新宿范围太大，购物及娱乐场所太多，你难以教人如何在那儿逛街。脚力和雄厚的财力，在这里都很重要。夕阳西下时，则是歌舞伎町开始活跃，舞者开始赤裸的时候。虽然这个地方晚上相对比较安全，但游客也要小心提防骗子和扒手。这里有几家不错的拉面店，如果你胃口够大，还可以额外吃两碗免费的拉面。

Akibahara or Akiba in short is well known for being the world leading electronic place. Not only this is the place for those looking for the latest electronic gadgets, it is also the mecca for otakus. Visiting anime or idol fans from near and far will visit this place especially on Sundays where many be in their manga, anime and Japan cosplay. Some may consider this culture twisted especially for those with traditional up-bringing or conservative mind-set but to others, it is an opportunity where the virtual world comes alive.

秋叶是世界领先的电子产品圣地，这不仅是寻觅最新电子产品的地方，它也是御宅族的圣地。来自各地的动漫迷都会前来此地参观，特别在星期日，许多人会以漫画、动画和日本角色扮演的形象出现。对于比较传统保守的人士而言，这种文化显得扭曲，但对其他人而言，这是虚拟世界变成真实的机会。

Tokyo Sky Tree is the venue for those who prefer an indoor, more relaxing and cooler shopping experience. It is the world’s tallest ‘free-standing tower’ at 634m with two observation decks overlooking Tokyo with a spectacular panoramic view. A large shopping complex and an aquarium are located on the base.

东京天空树特别为喜欢室内轻松和超酷购物体验的人而设立，它是世界上最高的“自由独立塔”，高634米，具有两个观景台，可俯瞰东京壮观的全景，底层是一个大型购物中心和水族馆。

If you only have time to visit one temple then the Sensoji Temple located in Asakusa will be the perfect choice. This is Tokyo’s oldest and one of the most popular yet most colourful temples. It is hard to miss this temple as it has a big red lantern with Japanese wordings written in black hanging in front of the main entrance. Upon entering, visitors will be greeted with a 200 meters shopping street called Nakamise that have interesting small shops selling from typical Japanese souvenirs such as folding fans, chopsticks, etc., to local traditional hand made snacks. Only after walking through the centuries old shopping street then one will approach the main hall and the five starred pagoda. There are many events held throughout the year here and the annual festival of the Asakusa Shrine, the Sanjay Matsui held in May is the biggest.

如果你只有时间参观一所庙宇，那么浅草寺将是你完美的选择。这是东京最古老和最受欢迎，也最丰富多彩的寺庙。你很难错过这个寺庙，因为它有一个写上黑色日文的大红灯笼挂在大门前。步入其间，将有200米长的仲见世购物街欢迎你。这里有许多有趣的小店铺，售卖典型的日本纪念品如折扇、筷子、当地传统的精致点心等等。走过了这条拥有百年历史的商业街，你就会来到正殿和五宝塔。这里整年活动不断，浅草寺每年5月举办的一年一度三社祭是最大型的节庆。

EZ 41, EZ 61 (2), Mind Philosophy, Vol 41

Quick & Easy Tokyo 快速及简易的游览东京

January 26, 2016 EZ Malaysia Leave a comment

Tokyo prior to 1968 was known as Edo, a small castle town in the 16th century but today it is the world’s most populous metropolis and one of Asia’s must visit destinations for unlimited choice of shopping, entertainment, culture, art and dining. Not to mention the rich history offered by this city to visitors is beyond words can describe. If one only have a few days in Tokyo then…

在1968年前，东京被称为江户。若追溯回更早以前的历史，东京在16世纪时只是一个小镇，不过，如今已演变为亚洲着名及必游的大都市，不管是购物、娱乐、文化、艺术及食物，都有着繁多的选择，还有其丰富历史，往往让到访游客目不暇给。如果只能在东京待个几天，建议如下：

It is highly recommended that short stay visitors should purchase a daily travel pass that can be used on all JR, subways and bus lines within the Tokyo district. Trains run from 5am till midnight. Transportation here can be very expensive if one does not plan properly.

推荐打算短程旅游的游客购买一日游车券，这样就可在一天内无限量乘搭东京的地铁及巴士。地铁系统是从早上5时至凌晨运作，若没提早规划行程，东京的交通费是蛮高的。

Tokyo DisneySea is a good choice for those who have been to a few Disneyland around the world and wanted to experience something different but still within the magical Disney. A fantasy theme park inspired by myths and legends of the sea, many reviews have stated that this park is more suitable for the grown up audience but personally I feel that there is no such thing as adults when it comes to the world of Disney. It is the place that even the elderly feel as if they were kids as it just brings back so many memories.

若曾到其他国家的迪斯尼乐园游玩的人士，来东京时不妨到访全球唯一以海洋为主题的迪斯尼海洋乐园，既能带来全新感受，也能继续保有迪斯尼乐园梦幻及童话般的氛围。虽然经常有人会说，迪斯尼海洋乐园是适合成人游玩的园地，可是我还是觉得，既然来到迪斯尼乐园，就再没有小孩及成人之分了。这是一个让成人也能返老还童的乐园，伴随的还有很多年幼时期的美好回忆。

Odaiba is a man-made island in Tokyo Bay where shopping and entertainment are plenty for those who love to explore. Besides the Fuji Building and the Rainbow Bridge, Tokyo Joypolis is a fun and exciting play station for those with strong hearts whereas the National Museum of Emerging Science or also known as Miraikan offers visitors an insight to how far technology has progressed and if you are lucky, Asimo will sing for you. Palette Town is a large shopping and entertainment centre that consists of Venus Fort shopping centre, the Ferris Wheel, Zepp Tokyo, Toyota Mega Web and Tokyo Leisureland. There is no doubt that one will feel the ‘pain’ especially on the legs after a long day’s walk so remember to save some time to visit Oedo Onsen, the hot spring theme park that offers baths, scrubs and massages. Guests are expected to be naked.

台场是日本东京湾内一座以填海造陆方式製造出来的巨大人工岛，修筑了许多採用现代规划造景的商场与娱乐设施，供游客探索其中。

位于富士电视台建筑物及彩虹大桥旁的世嘉电子游戏玩乐城，适合追求刺激感的游客。若是来到日本科学未来馆，则可见识科技的进步，幸运的话，还可看到机器人Asimo的演唱。五彩城(Palette Town)是一个大型的娱乐商城，由维纳斯广场、摩天轮、Zepp Tokyo体育馆、丰田汽车Mega Web展示场及东京休闲乐园组成。

要在一天内游览这麽多地方，脚板会一定很痛呢！因此，别忘了预留一些时间到访大江户温泉馆，享受温泉泡澡及按摩。值得一提的是，客人在享受温泉泡澡时必须祼体。

Continue reading Quick & Easy Tokyo 快速及简易的游览东京 →

EZ 34, EZ 61 (2), Mind Philosophy, Vol 34

Rome: 10 Things Not To Miss (Part 1)

April 16, 2014 EZ Malaysia Leave a comment

Touring Rome is unlike visiting any other major city in Europe. This place, with a history of more than 2500 years, presents to visitors the opportunity to experience an open air museum where angels and demons once ruled. One has to really like and appreciate heritage as this is a place where treasures and masterpieces of Roman art and architecture are preserved and presented proudly by the Italians. EZ has selected 10 things you should pen down when planning your tour in this ancient city.

Part 1

Touring Rome is unlike visiting any other major city in Europe. This place, with a history of more than 2500 years, presents to visitors the opportunity to experience an open air museum where angels and demons once ruled. One has to really like and appreciate heritage as this is a place where treasures and masterpieces of Roman art and architecture are preserved and presented proudly by the Italians. EZ has selected 10 things you should pen down when planning your tour in this ancient city.

Rome is unlike many modern European cities where the trains or subways are designed to directly reach important tourist attractions. This city has so many ancient architectural sites above and below ground level that the rail transportation system was built around these important sites, making sure that no heritage was damaged. As such, it is highly recommended that one should pack along a pair of good sport shoes. Furthermore if you are not travelling with a tour group, it is advisable to buy tickets and take a round trip with the Hop On Hop Off bus so that you will have a good idea and perspective of the city of Rome.

The Colosseo (Colosseum in Italian) is one of the world’s most recognised buildings. One would be hard pressed to find a larger and more glorious setting that could seat over 50,000 people to view the mass slaughters which were a form of entertainment millennia ago. This was a brutal stage on which gladiators, slaves, criminals and animals had to fight to death for the sole purpose of surviving another day. It is highly recommended to purchase a combo ticket that covers the entrance for Forum and the Palatine Hill. Moreover, it allows you to bypass the super long queue. The ticket also comes with an English speaking guide that will take you to places that are restricted if one only buys the normal ticket. Before leaving, remember to take some memory shots with the Arch of Constantine, the triumphal arch in Rome.

Built on the site of the 1st century AD Stadium of Domitian, this city square is the venue that was once used by ancient Romans for festivals and sporting events. Today Piazza Navona is a pedestrian’s paradise where restaurants line the perimeter and the magnificent Fountain of the Four Rivers structure grace this elongated oval. One cannot miss the church of Sant’Agnese in Agone, a 17th century baroque church that commands such fine craftsmanship, such splendour and such dedication to faith that is almost impossible to find in today’s modern world. For those who would like to bring home paintings as souvenirs, there are plenty of artists’ works on sale here.

The Monumento Nazionale a Vittorio Emanuele II is located just within walking distance from the Colosseum. This magnificent yet controversial white marble monument that dominates Piazza Venezia was built to pay tribute to Victor Emmanuel II, the first king of a united Italy. Within the monument, the Museo Centrale del Risorgimento is housed. This is a museum dedicated to the history of how Italy was unified. The top of the monument provides a fantastic 360º panoramic view of Rome.

If you like to meet The God of the Sea and do not mind squeezing with other admirers, then the Trevi Fountain would be the place to be. As tradition has it, you will supposedly return to Rome if you throw a coin over your opposite shoulder with your back facing the fountain. While this makes for a fun little activity, there is an annoying side to it – there are just too many people snapping, videoing and repeating the same ritual of tossing over and over again! However, the atmosphere of the jostling crowd and the magnificent presentation of the majestic Neptune riding a shell-shaped chariot with two seahorses are simply breath-taking. If things get a little overwhelming, an Italian Gelato might just do the trick.

Italian Gelato near Trevi Fountain

01 Hop On Hop Off

Rome is unlike many modern European cities where the trains or subways are designed to directly reach important tourist attractions. This city has so many ancient architectural sites above and below ground level that the rail transportation system was built around these important sites, making sure that no heritage was damaged. As such, it is highly recommended that one should pack along a pair of good sport shoes. Furthermore if you are not travelling with a tour group, it is advisable to buy tickets and take a round trip with the Hop On Hop Off bus so that you will have a good idea and perspective of the city of Rome.

02 Colosseo (Colosseum)

The Colosseo (Colosseum in Italian) is one of the world’s most recognised buildings. One would be hard pressed to find a larger and more glorious setting that could seat over 50,000 people to view the mass slaughters which were a form of entertainment millennia ago. This was a brutal stage on which gladiators, slaves, criminals and animals had to fight to death for the sole purpose of surviving another day. It is highly recommended to purchase a combo ticket that covers the entrance for Forum and the Palatine Hill. Moreover, it allows you to bypass the super long queue. The ticket also comes with an English speaking guide that will take you to places that are restricted if one only buys the normal ticket. Before leaving, remember to take some memory shots with the Arch of Constantine, the triumphal arch in Rome.

03 Piazza Navona

Built on the site of the 1st century AD Stadium of Domitian, this city square is the venue that was once used by ancient Romans for festivals and sporting events. Today Piazza Navona is a pedestrian’s paradise where restaurants line the perimeter and the magnificent Fountain of the Four Rivers structure grace this elongated oval. One cannot miss the church of Sant’Agnese in Agone, a 17th century baroque church that commands such fine craftsmanship, such splendour and such dedication to faith that is almost impossible to find in today’s modern world. For those who would like to bring home paintings as souvenirs, there are plenty of artists’ works on sale here.

04 The Monumento Nazionale a Vittorio Emanuele II

The Monumento Nazionale a Vittorio Emanuele IIis located just within walking distance from the Colosseum. This magnificent yet controversial white marble monument that dominates Piazza Venezia was built to pay tribute to Victor Emmanuel II, the first king of a united Italy. Within the monument, the Museo Centrale del Risorgimento is housed. This is a museum dedicated to the history of how Italy was unified. The top of the monument provides a fantastic 360º panoramic view of Rome.

05 Trevi Fountain

If you like to meet The God of the Sea and do not mind squeezing with other admirers, then the Trevi Fountain would be the place to be. As tradition has it, you will supposedly return to Rome if you throw a coin over your opposite shoulder with your back facing the fountain. While this makes for a fun little activity, there is an annoying side to it – there are just too many people snapping, videoing and repeating the same ritual of tossing over and over again! However, the atmosphere of the jostling crowd and the magnificent presentation of the majestic Neptune riding a shell-shaped chariot with two seahorses are simply breath-taking. If things get a little overwhelming, an Italian Gelato might just do the trick.

Stay tune for the next issue of EZ to find out more exciting things to do in Rome.

Captains & Legends, EZ 33

The God of Quality

February 6, 2014 EZ Malaysia Leave a comment

EZ caught up with Tumi Holdings, Inc’s Senior Vice President and Managing Director of Asia Pacific, Tom Nelson, when he was in Penang for the official opening of the brand’s first flagship boutique in the luxury lifestyle mall, Gurney Paragon.

In a world where the jet-setting elite are not only growing in numbers but also in sophistication and discernment, the need for excellent travel gear has generated a lucrative industry. With many brands vying for the attention of the well-heeled traveller, there is one brand that has been revolutionising the way people travel.

Taking its name from a Peruvian god, Tumi is a world-renowned brand that began almost 40 years ago, built around the basic philosophy of creating products that make people’s lives easier. The 1980s saw Tumi’s innovation – the soft, super functional, black-on-black ballistic nylon travel bags – captivate the consumers and sow the seeds for an astronomical growth. The last two decades has witnessed Tumi’s conquering of the luxury travel segment and leading the trail with its superior quality luggage, business cases, handbags, small leather goods, executive accessories, electronics, gifts, pens and watches. That the brand holds 25 patents for its design and engineering developments is no coincidence nor is being recognised as the brand with the best products in the travel and business categories.

While in the past, Malaysians could only purchase Tumi products in the brand’s flagship boutiques overseas, the last couple of years have seen a marked increase in the brand’s presence as Tumi sets up its boutiques in Malaysia. With four boutiques in Kuala Lumpur and one in Johor, Valiram Group which exclusively manages and operates Tumi in Malaysia brought the brand to Penang in October 2013. EZ caught up with Tumi Holdings, Inc’s Senior Vice President and Managing Director of Asia Pacific, Tom Nelson, when he was in Penang for the official opening of the brand’s first flagship boutique in the luxury lifestyle mall, Gurney Paragon.

As the SVP and MD of Asia Pacific, Nelson’s job covers a wide region. ‘I am responsible for the Asia Pacific region, which extends from India in the west, down to Australia and New Zealand in the South Pacific, all the way up to Northern Asia, China, Japan and then, actually, up to Hawaii. And so, that sort of is the market in the region of Asia Pacific, and I am responsible for the sales, business development, and marketing of the brand,’ explained Nelson on his role.

Nelson was seen totting a Tumi backpack, which he says has been with him for over a decade. He regards the brand and its products with great respect, something that tells us he would still be a fan of Tumi if he was not working for the company. ‘I have worked for a number of premium, high-end consumer goods brands over the course of my career, and I knew about Tumi well before I was with the company. When I was asked to meet in an interview with the company executive, I was very interested because I deeply respected Tumi,’ confessed Nelson.

‘One of the wonderful qualities about Tumi is that we appeal to clienteles we like to refer to as global citizens and these are discerning consumers who appreciate the Tumi difference and who are successful in their careers; men and women, who have a very fast-paced career who in many cases fly frequently. And so we find that the end users are truly global consumers, not just travelling but living everything. In Malaysia, just like other countries in Asia and around the world we find that Tumi began with the global citizen,’ he said, shining the light on one of the main factors that has made the brand such a success.

‘Tumi is essentially comprised of five founding characteristics and I’ll name them for you. They’re excellence in design, functional superiority, technical innovation, outstanding world-class quality and world-class customer service. Those five founding principles have always been with us within this company and this brand, and I was interested in them. On top of it, throughout my career and life, I have a passion for travel, and a portion of Tumi’s business and heritage is in travelling, so that’s very much something that appealed to me as well.’

It is the travel part of Tumi along with its continual development of good performance products that draw Nelson. Born and raised in West Virginia, US, Nelson professed to having the wanderlust even when he was a young boy. His family, he said, travelled together, often. ‘My mother in particular; she has a deep-seated love of travel, and so she would often get us out on the road,’ he related. ‘We travelled quite a bit and that’s what I think, created a thirst that I have and I still haven’t really satisfied for getting out and being in the world.’

Tumi is essentially comprised of five founding characteristics and I’ll name them for you. They’re excellence in design, functional superiority, technical innovation, outstanding world-class quality and world-class customer service.

With his job taking him around the world, Nelson has spent a wonderful 14 years with the company, which he says is quite hard to believe that it has been that long. ‘I have spent most of my 14 years either travelling to and from the US, but in the last four years I’ve actually been based in Asia, in Hong Kong,’ he answered when asked where he is based. ‘I’ve actually lived in many different places, and the great thing about that is when you live somewhere, you really get to know the city. I thought I knew Hong Kong during all the times I’ve travelled there; you really don’t know the place until you’ve lived there.’

‘But I also like to say I’m based on an airplane,’ he joked, ‘Because I’m so often on an airplane.’ Family, he said, is another reason why he travels so much. ‘I do have a family and I am married, and my family lives in the US while I live in Hong Kong so that’s one of the reasons why I travel around so much. My family shares my love of travelling as well.’

Nelson, who was flying off to a trade show the very next day, said that cities have a sort of effect on him. One of his favourite cities is Munich, Germany. ‘I love that city for its beauty and its architecture, and so I really enjoy cities that are low-hassle, that are visually beautiful, that work well and I think that sort of reflects how I like to conduct my life. My life is complicated, but I really seek to improve it.’

It would not be too far-fetched to postulate that it is with this philosophy in life that Nelson connects most with the company he works for, the brand of which he has chosen to represent. Tumi, at its core, strives to make people’s lives easier, just as how Nelson seeks to improve his complicated life. Tellingly, Nelson attributes the most rewarding aspect of his job to a very tangible experience – seeing people carry Tumi products. ‘It really is the key, the acceptance around the world of the brand and the execution of the Tumi difference. When I’m travelling around and I see other people carrying our brand, it feels very rewarding to me because it shows that we have a product that people appreciate.’

One of the very most exciting aspects of working with Tumi is also getting to work with hardworking people ‘who have such great passion for a good brand, because they recognise the authenticity of the brand’ said Nelson. According to him, Tumi is a very creative organization that is placed on the high end of entrepreneurship, making it an ideal workplace for Nelson.

‘We’re a recent public-listed company and you see the impact of your decisions straightaway. It’s not like you have to go through layers of management to see your decisions get implemented. You can make a decision today and see it implemented tomorrow. Sometimes that’s really the passion and creativity of entrepreneurship.’ Perhaps it is with these intrinsic qualities that Tumi, and its key personnels such as Nelson that have made possible for Tumi to have carved a name – a very respectable one at that – as the premier brand of high quality and luxury travel and business gear.