Tokyo 11-16 April 08 - Ooike Hotel, Fujikawaguchiko

Specially arranged a night's stay at Lake Kawaguchi, Fuji Five Lakes area, for my mum, aunt and brother to experience a Japanese Ryokan stay with onsen.

During my very first trip to Tokyo with hubby in 2003 (my honeymoon!), we also visited Kawaguchiko, in order to catch a glimpse of Mount Fuji, the pride of Japanese people. Read from a magazine before that the Japanese people consider soaking onsen while admiring the breathtaking scenery of Fuji-san a very sacred experience. And indeed, I was struck in awe when I first saw the majestic Fuji-san.

There is a direct bus from Shinjuku to Kawaguchiko Station, operated by Keio Highway Bus, a one-way journey takes about 2hrs and cost 1700yen.

I was highly anticipating to see Mount Fuji again. Alas, the weather was not in our favour and the entire area was shrouded with mist and Mount Fuji wasn't at all visible :( Unlucky.

Our ryokan at Kawaguchiko - Hotel Ooike 大池ホテル, located some distance away from the lake area.Lobby area. Had made my reservation through the ryokan's website which is in Japanese language only. Was pleasantly surprised that the reception staff spoke a little English. Usually, upon checking in, the ryokan would enquire about our prefered dinner and breakfast timings and make arrangement according.
Lounge area.
This was our 10-mat tatami guest room. Quite small, but enough for 4 of us. All amenities like toiletries, slippers, yukata were prepared.

Spared no time to change into yukata to go for a soak in the natural hotspring before dinner. I guess for mum, aunt and brother, it was certainly an experience unlike no other, especially the bare-it-all concept of Japanese onsen. There are 2 public baths, separated into male and female. For couples or family who wish to bath together, there's a private onsen for rent.

Changing area.

Indoor public bath.

Dinner time! Initially was planning for a Kaiseki dinner, but realised that my mum and aunt don't take raw fish. It would be a waste not eating the sashimi, hence decided to go for another dinner plan - 90min All-You-Can-Eat Shabu Shabu しゃぶしゃぶ食べ放題プラン.
Basically, we could eat as much beef, pork and vegetable (different varieties with mushroom and tofu) in 90 mins as we wanted. All the ingredients were really fresh. Mum and aunt don't take beef so ended up, only my brother and I ate the beef so we ordered more pork then beef. In fact, mum loved the vegetable and mushroom more than the meat.
There was also chawanmushi, pickles and a pinkish cube of what tasted like tofu.
Miso soup with mushroom and beancurd.
Dessert - almond tofu jelly with blueberry sauce. I love it! After a hearty dinner, time for shopping! It seemed customary for guests to bring away with them some omiyage (souvenirs). Ryokans would usually have a small shop carrying specialty merchandise of the locale like soaps made of volcanic materials supposedly rich in minerals, food like jams, onsen buns, cookies shaped in Fuji-san etc.

By the time we went back to our room, warm futon beddings were already prepared. Before bedtime, I went for a quick soak at the onsen again.Breakfast was buffet style (what the Japs called Viking style). My favourite breakfast item - fluffy Jap rice wrapped with seaweed.

Still sometime before check out, so quickly went for a soak at the outdoor onsen which I didn't go the night before. It was slightly drizzy and still misty, unlikely to see Mount Fuji again. Temperature was quite low due to the rain, kinda of cold dashing to the outdoor onsen area in nothing but a small piece of towel.
Potable natural spring water from Mount Fuji. Refreshing!

Changing area. What I like about ryokans, they always have a few ranges of bath and beauty products for guests to use and trial.

After a round of soak and pampering, we checked out and the hotel staff sent us to Kawaguchiko Station where we waited for the Keio Highway bus back to Shinjuku. We could also take JR train back to Shinjuku but it cost more and need to change line.
While we waited for the bus, we walked around and managed to catch a partial glimpse of Mount Fuji! Although it was just partial view, it was still beautiful. At least we didn't go away disappointed.

Resources

• Hotel Ooike, Fujikawaguchiko - http://www.ooike-hotel.co.jp/index.php
• Fujikawaguchiko Sightseeing Information Site - http://www.fujisan.ne.jp/index_e.php

Macau 15-17 March 08

Oh, this is such a belated post. March seemed a long time ago... after all that has happened these few months, I could barely recollect details of this trip, apart from authentic Portugese egg tarts :p

It was a birthday getaway actually. I guess Macau wouldn't usually be a top choice for birthday getaways. But we hadn't been to Macau before and had been talking about it the longest time. So decided to just do it. Took up a 3D2N promotion package from a travel agency - comprising airfare on Tiger Airways (direct flight) and 3D2N stay at the much raved-about 'The Venetian'! Everyone was talking about the grandeur of this relatively new resort hotel.

Day 1 - 15 Mar 08

Our first time taking flight from the Budget Terminal.
Couldn't remember how long the flight was (4hrs?); when we reached Macau, it was already the evening. Took the complimentary shuttle coach from the airport to The Venetian. The Venetian is not located in Macau mainland, instead it is built on the reclaimed The Cotai Strip, between islands of Taipa and Coloane. The hotel looked impressive alright, and I eagerly looked forward to the highly-acclaimed 'All-Suites' rooms. The coach dropped us at the West entrance, which looked a little too chaotic for comfort. Probably due to the weekend. Apparently, the West entrance is the boarding and drop-off location for shuttle buses (between various points like ferry terminal and border gates) and tour coaches.

We made our way to the reception amidst throngs of people (gamblers, tourists alike). Fortunately as it was past check-in time, not much queue and the front desk staff was quite friendly. We later learnt that there are two check-in receptions, one at the main hotel lobby and the one at the West entrance, which appeared more like a 3-4 star sort of reception.

We were given a map of the premise because this place is huge! Without a map, probably we would get lost. Besides 3000 Suites, The Venetian houses a Convention and Exhibition Centre, The Venetian Arena, The Grand Canal Shoppes and Gondola, Spa, Restaurants and not forgetting Casino.

And here was our Royale Suite with 'King-sized canopy-draped bed and Sunken living room' as described in the brochures and travel websites.
Luxurious indeed. Honestly, we didn't really need such a big room. But since it was my birthday trip, a little pampering was ok!

I love the spacious marble bathroom. Looked a little tacky but no complaints.
After settling down, we made our way to St. Mark's Square. The atmosphere was surreal with its painted blue skies and canals which offered gondola rides. Apparently this is modelled after the sister property, The Venetian, Las Vegas.
As we strolled along the streets, we could even encounter musicians and performers dressed in elaborate costumes.

This is the Main Hotel Lobby, on a much glam scale than the West entrance.Nothing much scenery outside the hotel, just a few construction projects going on.

We had a quick dinner at a food court and proceeded to the Casino. Didn't take any photos since not allowed. The Casino is huge, bright and spacious (unlike Genting Casino which is a tad dark and crowded). Most of the slot machines are similar to the ones at Genting, perhaps a few new ones. Cash is used and if one wishes to stop playing and there is still credit, a barcode cash ticket will be issued. This cash ticket can be used as 'cash' at any of the slot machines. Convenient indeed. Table games are also similar to the ones at Genting. Interesting note, staff went around the casino serving drinks like coffee, tea, juices and even The Venetian label drinking water.Day 2 - 16 Mar 08

After a good night rest, we decided to venture to Macau mainland in search of Portugese egg tarts for breakfast. Many travel blogs, websites and forums recommend Margaret's Cafe e Nata. We had problem finding the cafe since it is hidden in a back alley, but just ask any locals they would be able to give directions.

Cafe e Nata is indeed popular as evident from the crowd. Could already smell the fragrance of freshly baked egg tarts the moment I stepped into the tiny shop.

Naturally we had to order the famed Portugese egg tarts. The buttery flaky pastry matched perfectly with the sweet, creamy custard.The surface of the egg custard was a little burnt which added to the aroma and the custard almost melted in my mouth. Heavenly...
Besides egg tarts, the shop also had a sandwich bar which sold different types of filling for sandwiches. Some locals even order the fillings to eat as salads. The sandwich was not bad either, but egg tarts were still better :d~~~

After a hearty breakfast, we made our way to Largo do Senado - Senado Square, a popular venue for local events and celebrations and a must-visit tourist attraction.
Modern twist to otherwise very classical buildings.
Within walking distance to Senado Square is Ruinas de S.Paulo - Ruins of St. Paul's. Another must-visit tourist attraction, the facade was originally the Church of Mater Dei built in 1602 - 1640, destroyed by fire in 1835, and the ruins of St. Paul's College, which stood adjacent to the Church. The old Church of Mater Dei, St. Paul's College and Mount Fortress were all Jesuit constructions and formed what can be perceived as the "Acropolis" of Macau. Now it functions symbolically as an altar to the city.
There appeared to be regular traditional Portugese dance sessions, adding much vibrancy and live to the area.

Behind the facade are stairs to access the ruins for better view. See me waving there?
Lots of shops selling local snacks like almond pastries, egg crisps, beef jerky surround the area and business was certainly brisk.Hubby couldn't resist a curry-flavoured beef tripe, texture was rather chewy, not too bad.

Saw a hawker peddling what seemed to be a very traditional ice-cream cart. Wanted to try but we were on our way to lunch. Regretted not buying :(

For lunch, I wanted to try authentic Portugese cuisine. Restaurante Solmar, with a 40-year history was quite highly recommended by several forums and guidebooks.Homely and vintage interior furnishings, quite popular among the locals as well.
We ordered a few of the Chef's recommendation. First up was Stewed Seafood Combination. Vague impression.

Next was Bacalhau, which was supposedly a specialty in Macau. It was basically "Codfish cakes" made of mash potatoes and dry salted codfish and deepfried. It was well, not bad.Another supposedly famous dish is African Chicken. Chicken was fried and cooked with some spice gravy sauce. Couldn't make out the piquant taste, all I could say, interesting.
The waiter kept urging us to try thePortugese style baked chicken, which looked very much like curry chicken to us.
Regretted ordering so much food as we could barely finished half of each. And I had to forgo the Solmar Biscuit Mousse, also known as "saw dust cake".

Although many people raved about Portugese food, we weren't really used to it and found them nothing spectacular. Or perhaps we didn't order the correct dishes.

With stomaches filled to the brim, we decided to go Casino-hopping and see the difference styles and decor of casinos here.


I think Casino Lisbon is one of the earliest casino establishments in Macau. Decor was really old-school and somewhat tacky.Grand Lisbon looks like a newer property of Lisbon.
Wynn Hotel and Casino, our favourite among the lot with modern interior furnishings. The patrons seemed more chic as well.MGM Grand with one of the most interesting building structure.

As we walked around from casinos to casinos, we noticed the streets of Macau were fairly deserted even though it was a weekend. Where were all the people? Then it occurred to us that almost everyone was in the casinos. Yep, the casinos were thriving. Most of the casinos served complimentary refreshment like cakes, sandwiches and beverages like hot coffee, tea, juices, soft drinks and own label drinking water. People could just eat and drink while gambling without having to step foot out of the casinos. In fact, eateries are located inside the Casinos itself to bring convenience to the patrons.


Day 3 - 17 Mar 08


Our last day in Macau, didn't want to venture out anymore and thus spent the rest of the morning in The Venetian Casino trying out the different slot machines which I have never played before. As our flight was in the afternoon, we had to deposit our bags with the concierge. I guess most people had the same itinerary and there were a horrendous queue at the West entrance. Once again, chaos as there seemed a shortage of manpower to manage this service. The hotel ought to improve on this area and better control of the West entrance as the queues and bad service marred the grandeur of the property. After lunch at a dim sum restaurant within the Casino (no photos since within Casino), we checked out and headed to the Macau airport for a boring flight back to Singapore.


Will I be back again? Probably not. But if I do, don't think I would stay at The Venetian again. Wynn Hotel seems like a better choice.

One thing for ladies to note - avoid being alone, always have someone as companion. I was approached twice by strange men when alone. Once at the lobby area where hubby was checking out some info at the reception while I was busy snapping photos. A well dressed man in his mid-forties approached me (sounded like from China) and asked to borrow some money and that he would return the money the next day when his family members arrive. I dared not look him in the eye (heard of tales about hypnotising) and quickly moved to where hubby was. Another occasion I was at St. Mark's Square window shopping. At a more deserted area, I was once again approached by a stranger (sounded like from China once again) asking me if I spoke Mandarin. I just shook my head and quickly walked away. Scary.

Resources

• The Venetian, Macau http://www.venetianmacao.com
• Restaurante Solmar http://www.solmar.com.mo (Avenida Da Praia Grande, 512 Macau, 11am - 11.30pm)
• Margaret's Cafe e Nata (Gum Loi Building, Rua Alm. Costa Cabral)

Swiss roll with whipped cream

The past work week was once again a stressful one and I guess the coming weeks will continue to be. Thank goodness it's the weekend but woke up with a headache and didn't feel like doing anything too intensive.

Decided to give the swiss roll a go again. Have in fact failed several times already; where the sponge turned out too dry and rough. I believe the crux lies in the whisking of the egg and sugar batter, but I just couldn't grasp the correct batter consistency.

This time, decided to whisk the batter much longer, till it became quite thick. Had to whip the batter for quite some time and stopping the mixer several times in the process. Guess the patience paid off and the batter seemed to be about the right consistency - flowing and silky.

And after baking and letting the sponge cooled down, I couldn't wait to check the texture of the sponge. It turned out much better than previous attempts! Hehe.

The texture of the sponge is much finer than previous attempts and soft to the bite. I can proudly say that it is at last a successful attempt. But the sponge is still not as light as Chef Keiko's. Definitely got to refine till I can achieve the same standard.

Anyway, since I didn't think it could be a successful attempt, didn't really prepare any ingredients for the rolling. Still have some fresh cream in the fridge so decided to do a simple whipped cream.

Hmmm, with only the whipped cream, the swiss roll lacks depth and kind of boring. Now that I know how to make a light sponge, I can start exploring with different fillings, perhaps white chocolate whipped cream with strawberry, banana with caramel cream... Perhaps tint the sponge to lovely pastel shades to go with the fillings. I must also sharpen my knife so that the cut can be cleaner. Ok, must find more time to explore the different tastes and combination.

Coconut Cupcakes with Luxurious Coconut Buttercream

Have been quite stressed up over work the past week, thank goodness it's the weekend. Baking therapy would do some good. Decided to try 2 recipes over this weekend, starting with the Coconut Cupcakes with Luxurious Coconut Buttercream learnt during the Summer Treats Workshop: Layer Cakes, Cupcakes & Ice Creams.

The Coconut Cake recipe can be baked to assemble as a layer cake or just simply cupcakes. Cupcakes would be more practical since they could be offered to friends and family for sampling. Moreover, I have yet to procure the necessary equipment for layering a cake. I must attempt a layer cake once of these days, perhaps for upcoming birthdays.

The batter is quite easy to prepare since the recipe given is very comprehensive. To get the aroma of coconut, besides using coconut cream, it's interesting that Nielsen-Massey Pure Almond Extract is used. I guess this aroma is the closest we can get until Nielsen-Massey start to sell Pure Coconut Extract.
The cake turns out tender and not too sweet. Bits of desiccated coconut added to the batter also provide some crunch and texture to the cake. The coconut butter cream is luxurious indeed, complementing the otherwise plain cake.

The buttercream seems a little boring without any toppings. A little drizzle of desiccated coconut completes the look.

Enough baking and washing up for today. I really should buy a new oven soon as my little 18L oven could only manage one tray of cupcake at a time which was so time consuming. Yep, shall go shopping soon. Looking forward to trying another recipe tomorrow.

Update on Sunday 7 Sep: Tried the Lemon Grove Cupcakes with Whipped White Chocolate & Lemon Ganache. All's well until I sent 1 batch of batter into the oven and started cleaning the kitchen and realised that I forgot the 3rd and final addition of my flour mixture (supposed to mix the flour mixture in 3 additions alternating between the liquid mixture). Left the flour mixture at a corner and totally forgot about it. No wonder I felt something not right with the batter. The cupcake turned out too wet and didn't rise properly. Well, too late and had to waste the batter. Also over beat the ganache, one moment it was still in runny state, I turned to wash some dishes and it became stiff peak instead of the soft peak consistency. Learnt a valuable lesson, always watch every step closely. Will try next week perhaps as I've run out of some key ingredients and these aren't available at the supermarkets in my vicinity.

Bad luck continues...

My unlucky streak seems to be continuing ever since my loss pregnancy in May. Feeling kind of despondent with my latest mishap (coupled with stress from work and having to deal with difficult situations/people). Ever since May, felt that the body constitution seems weakened; energy level stooped low most of the days, with eyes extremely tired. Eyesight was quite blurry sometimes and becoming worse recently.

Initially I thought it has got to do with astigmatism. Have been wearing normal soft contact lens all this while as the Optician that I frequent claimed that my astigmatism is not high enough to wear toric lens. During my most recent visit (worsening blurriness), the Optician declared that my eye readings were weird and abnormal i.e. equipment reading differs from the manual procedural readings; and advised me to see a doctor.

In a dilemma, my biggest fear is to go blind but I am scared of facing the truth if I visit a doctor. Alright, things may not be that serious. My colleague recommended me to an Optometrist located in AMK heartlands. So made an appointment 2 weeks ago. Pretty impressed the moment I stepped into the shop. I mean, it seems like a typical optical shop, but no, it's much more. There is a room full of equipment for eye testing and the Optometrists are all very experience and knowledgeable. Besides prescripting eye-wear, the shop operates somewhat like a clinic where customers have to make appointment for consultations which are chargeable.

The Optometrist first went through my medical and family history, followed by a check on my cornea. Apparently my cornea is ‘hazy’ and upon closer look, there are scratches on the cornea directly affecting my vision. That explains why the equipment readings were inaccurate and didn't make sense. This cornea ‘corrosion’ is caused by long term use of contact lens, stress on eyes, late nights. The brand of lens I used also aggravated the problem as it ‘sucks’ moisture from the eyes; although comfortable during wear, it caused severe dry eyes after removal. Hmmm… I started this brand 6 months ago, the onset of symptons could have started then but not so obvious until recently. The situation for the left eye is worse than the right, meaning subconsciously I have been relying on my right eye and straining my left. That's why my eyes feel so tired.

To temp correct my left eye, I have to make a new pair of specs with higher degree on the left to balance the focus and not strain the eyes. Damn, my current pair of specs is barely 3 months old. Anyway, the current pair is not suitable for me at all. Besides the left lens problem, it doesn't fit well on my nose and eye frame either. Well, the ex Optician didn't check both eye condition nor suitability of specs. Ahem. Anyway, the Optometrist is really meticulous in helping me select a suitable pair of specs frame and also recommended a better lens with coating known as Teflon.

So, I’m off contact lens and onto specs for the next three months, at least. Cornea health not exactly good and eyes need time to heal.

Sucks… does it mean no diving, no Redang, no Sipadan (unless I get prescriptive masks coz my degree is really high and I’m as blind as a bat or maybe I can push for a couple of dives)? I guess less time on computers as well… less blogging (nope, can't give this up), less youtube and tudou, less Facebook poker and games, less Viwawa… must stop bringing work home and check office emails at home… must start looking for part time domestic help to relieve some chores, less late nights, sleep early… more hubby time… more project B time, more cooking, more baking… I digress.

So depressing and miserable. I hate to wear specs! When my cornea recovers, I seriously consider lasik.

Just collected my new specs yesterday, definitely a better fit and clearer vision (due to Teflon coating on lens). Hope my cornea will recover faster and bad luck go away soon...