Like the poet of this poem many
of us wish to fly like a kite in the blue sky. Kites are the matter of Fashion,
Passion and Dreams in many part of the world. Here I have got a beautiful
tradition of kite making and flying from Malaysia. It has caught the eye of the
kite enthusiast from the whole world. This article is having beautiful pictures
and a detail documentary video about “The
Wau Bulan Kites” of Malasyia. So
if you love kites then I am so sure you will love to know and experience the
traditional kites “Wau Bulan”
Wau bulan is an intricately
designed Malaysian moon-kite (normally with floral motifs) that is
traditionally flown by men in the Malaysian state of Kelantan. Indigenous to
the people living in Kelantan and Terengganu, these kites are a special craft
of West Malaysia. Making these kites is a tedious job and requires a great
amount of patience.
Firstly, bamboo is used to make
the frames for the kites, which keeps the kites sturdy and lightweight. Next,
motifs are carved out of coloured paper and shiny glazed paper. The intricacy
of the carvings is what sets a good kite maker apart from the others. The
carvings are then meticulously glued onto the frames. Finally the kite is
decorated with bright paper tassels. The motifs on the kites are normally
flowers with vines. The flowers represent the man while the vines represent the
ladies. After the harvest period, these kites are commonly flown over the paddy
fields. This is a break time for all the farmers who had work hard through the
rice-planting season.
Used
As some Important Symbols - It is one of Malaysia's national symbols, some
others being the kris and hibiscus. The reverse side of the fifty-cent coin of
Malaysia (1989 series) features an intricately-decorated wau bulan with a
hummer on top. The logo of Malaysia Airlines (MAS) is also based on this kite.
Wau on Coin
Wau as the symbol of Airlines
Wau Flying Competition
– in any regions, the Wau Flying competition happen during the spring and
summer season , Feb – April . Many other countries also organise exhibition of
the Wau Bulan Kites.
Decorative Use - Many
tourists buy these beautiful kites for decorative purpose. With beautiful design and colour Wau kites
are surely serve the purpose of a beautiful decorative piece. It serve as a
great gift to the loved ones.
There are many type of Wau Kites :-
Wau bulan or 'moon
kite'
Wau jala budi or 'woman
kite'
Wau kuching or 'cat
kite'
Wau barat or 'leaf
kite', also known as the 'morning kite'
Wau merak or ‘peacock
kite’ which has a tail and is a local traditional kite of the Johor province
Main Places for the competition
– Johore , Bintulu ,Kelantan , Pasir Gudung - (ALL IN MALAYSIA )
How it Got Name -
Wau bulan got its name from the crescent moon-like shape of its lower section
(bulan means "moon" in Bahasa Malaysia). 'Wau', pronounced 'Wow', is
an Arabic letter that looks something like the kite's shape.
Given the right colour, wau bulan
apparently resembles a rising crescent moon when flown.Wau Bulans, Wau Kuching
and other similar kites are constructed to fly in a figure of eight path so as
to make the normally attached hummer give a constant noise.
The size of wau bulan is bigger
than any other Malaysian traditional kite. The typical size is 2.5 meters in width
and 3.5 meters in length. This makes the decorations painted on the kite's body
to be visible when it is flown high in the air. To make it more distinctive,
wau bulan is normally decorated with large, strong-coloured patterns.
So if you are planning to visit
Malaysia then try to catch these kites and why not bring back one to decorate
the wall of your home.
Video Documentary in English
(a must watch )
Wau Bulan Kite - The traditional Kites of Malaysia
What could be a better place than
Paris to celebrate the Valentine’s Day with the someone you love and value so
much. This city of Fashion, beauty and wonderful evening has many options to
make your Valentine’s Day a very memorable one. Here are some of the best
options given to you to make your day more special and plan for it.
Though February is not a tourist
time for Paris but on Valentine’s Day the whole city turns in the city of love
and light and it is highly recommended to make your hotel and travel bookings
in advance and also try to book your place for the Valentine’s Day tour and
attraction well in advance. Advance booking will also get you some discounts on
the hotel price.
Get a gleams of the Romantic Paris at Night
Council takes part in the holiday
atmosphere by putting in the public disposal all the bulletin boards allowing
the Lovers to radiate love phrases in lighted up texts. The usual Romantic
attractions of Paris get a special shine on this Day of Love.
Before we go ahead with the information here is
the link of the important website:-
Official website of the Convention
and Visitors Bureau -
Weather on February in Paris
– Usually Chilly with some rain so must pack your warm cloths and an umbrella.
Let’s check out what is on the card for this day in the
Lovely City Paris –
Moulin Rouge- The
Moulin Rouge, temple of French Cancan, is a Parisian cabaret built in 1889 by
Joseph Oller et Charles Zidler. It's situated on the Clichy avenue in the 18th
arrondissement, at the foot of Montmartre. Its style and name have been
imitated by cabarets in the whole word.
Enjoy a wonderful
dinner show at the Moulin Rouge for the Valentine's Day –
Your night includes
access ticket to the cabaret to attend the show and a pleasant dinner with a
special valentine's menu. To make easier your evening, we recommend a pick up
and drop off anywhere in Paris, before or after the revue (optional). Let's get
to a fairy tale night with the Moulin Rouge !
Schedule :-
Valentine's Day Special
on 11, 12, 13 & 14 February 2012
-Bateaux Parisiens-
For Valentine’s Day, enjoy a magical and romantic evening in the heart of Paris
by Night. Boarding at the foot of the Eiffel Tower from 7.30pm for a departure
at 8.30pm. Return at 11.00pm and end of service at midnight. Live band
animation onboard
-Bateaux Mouches
- Board at Pont de l'Alma for the most romantic cruise of Paris.
Boarding from 7.50pm
for a departure at 8.30pm and return at 11.00pm.
Pianist and violinist
animation.
-Marina de Paris – Bercy - Valentine’s Day
Dinner Cruise “One Heart for Two”. Two services are proposed for this cruise
with boarding from Port de Solferino, at the foot of Orsay Museum: First
service – Discover Menu: welcome from 6.15pm for a departure at 6.45pm and
return at 8.00pmSecond service – Saveurs Menu: welcome from 8.50pm for a
departure at 9.15pm and return at 11.15pm Soul live singer as animation.
Enjoying dinner on the beautifulsetup of
this restaurantwill surely be an evening to remember,
enjoy the romantic dinner with the lovely view of the city Paris.
Le Jules Verne Restaurant - (On the second level of the Eiffel
Tower) –
It’s a life time experience. A very romantic and
special place to be on Valentine’s Day.
But I prefer Panoramic Bar because it gives the gleams of the
Eiffel tower as well.
Hot Air Balloon
–
Fly with your love on Hot Air balloon with champagne. See the lovely city.
Book in advance
www.hotairballoon.fr
Oysters and Wine at Le Baron Rouge
Candlelight, soft music and a quiet table in the corner ! There 's nothing more intimate than being crammed against each other in a cozy wine bar, jostling with the friendly locals and market stall-holders from the neighbouring
Marché d’Aligre for a glass of Burgundy and a platter of cheese and charuterie. On chilly winter weekends the jovial crowd spills out onto the sidewalk for fresh oysters and Sancerre .
Le Baron Rouge
1, rue
Théophile-Roussel (12th)
High Tea at the Ritz
If you’re going to do High Tea,
do it in style in one of the most posh settings in Paris, surrounded by
sparkling crystal, priceless antiques, and polished silver. Your gourmet tea
(or an amazingly thick hot chocolate) is served with a tower of delectable
pastries, tiny sandwiches, and scones with cream and jam.
Paris Ritz
15, Place Vendôme (1st)
Tea served from 4-7pm.
Kitsch Cocktails at the Blitz Tequila
Bar
The über-exclusive Black Calvados
Bar (aka BC) has been taken over by Blitz, the first European brand of tequila
from the Black Forest of Germany. Try and imagine the black lacquered walls and
black leather sofas of the BC decorated with glowing mushroom lamps, a cuckoo
clock, kitsch 60s record sleeves, and your barman dressed in real authentic
lederhosen.There are 41 different kinds of tequila and amazingly tasty
cocktails that will convert even the most adamant tequila-haters into (rather
inebriated) raving fans.
Blitz Tequila Bar
40 Avenue Pierre Ire de
Serbie (16th)
Open from 10pm.
Champagne at Flûte -
This tiny venue hidden on a tiny
side-street just off the place de l’Etoile was once a “gentleman’s bar”, and
still has an illicitly naughty feel to it. Take a seat on the red velour
banquette next to the fireplace with a Champagne cocktail, or find a quiet
alcove upstairs for a more intimate tête-à-tête. And despite the location and
quality bubbly, the prices are more than reasonable, and if you go on Tuesday
for Happy Hour (5-8pm) you get two drinks for the price of one. Dozens of
Champagnes available by the glass, gourmet appetizers for les petits
faims(little appetites), and live jazz on Wednesday nights.
Flûte l’Étoile
19,
rue de l’Étoile (17th)
Open
Mon-Sat from 5pm.
Cocktails and Wagyu Burgers at
Prescription Cocktail Club -
An anonymous black façade gives
no indication of the stylish speakeasy-style cocktail bar hidden inside. Which
is just the way the jeunesse dorée of Paris like it. But despite the confidential
private club feel (reinforced by the stern-faced doorman), the welcome is warm
and sincere once you’re inside.The décor has an elegant 1930s style, with
Magritte-inspired bowler hats used as lampshades and comfy upholstered sofas.
Come for apéritifs –the creative cocktails are made with ingredients like
ginger beer, elderflower liquor, or Japanese whiskey – but if you find it hard
to tear yourself away for dinner, their divine Wagyu beef mini-burgers made
with foie gras will fill you up without slowing you down.
Prescription Cocktail Club
23, rue Mazarine (6th)
Open Mon-Sat from
7pm-2am (4am on weekends)
Vin Chaud on the
Seine
A bottle of red, some cheese, and
the Pont des Arts…summertime romance in Paris is easy,but it’s been a rather
brisk winter, so keep warm and cozy by sipping from a thermos of vin chaud
while wrapped in a thick and fuzzy blanket. Views from the quays of the Île
St-Louis are always fabulous at sunset, and the high walls will help shelter
you from the freezing winds.
Dinner at the Dame
du Canton
Add a bit of gypsy-themed romance
to your evening on this vintage wooden péniche (barge) formerly known as La
Guinguette Pirate. Most people come here for the live World music, particularly
gypsy jazz “Manouche” (think Django Reinhardt), but below deck you’ll find a
cozy, lantern-lit restaurant serving traditional French dishes. Reserve the
cushion-filled, shag-pile-carpeted nook in the back for the most privacy. Just
make sure your date isn’t prone to sea sickness…or the gentle rocking of the
boat may end your evening prematurely!
La Dame du Canton
Moored permanently on the Left
Bank of the Seine just east of the Passerelle Simone de Beauvoir, Port de la
Gare (13th).
Open Tues-Sat from 8pm.
A Chocolate Massage at the Four
Seasons
Instead of the traditional box of
chocolates, impress your sweetheart with a decadent, “All about Chocolate” spa
treatment at the Four Seasons George V hotel. A chocolate-mint body scrub is
followed by a Swiss chocolate and toffee body wrap, and finished up with a deep
tissue massage using cocoa oil. In short, two and a half hours of pure
bliss…without the guilty calorie counting.
Spa at the Four Seasons George V
31, Avenue George V
(8th)
2.5-hour treatment €350
Romantic Walks in
Paris – As it is said “What not romantic in Paris” so both of
you can just take a romantic stroll over here. Some suggestions are :-
1. Try ambling around the narrow streets of
the Marais neighbourhood, especially Place des Vosges or Rue de Turenne,
for a quaint romantic stroll.
2. The banks of the Seine always ooze
with romance. Try getting off at Metro St Michel and strolling on the left
bank, or on the Ile St Louis around Notre Dame Cathedral. If it's warm out,
stop for a picnic. You can also consider taking a Paris boat tour and then a
stroll around Notre Dame, the Pont d'Alma or other spots along the Seine,
depending on where your boat tour departs from.
3. Exploring the charming nooks of
Montmartre will inspire arty romance that any 19th-century poet would
approve of.
4. The Latin Quarter, with its hidden
passageways, antique bookstores, old-world cafes and elegant gardens, is always
a romantic place to amble in Paris.
Interesting Sidewalk Cafes
1. De la Contrescarpe - It is located
in the 5th district, atop the quaint Rue Mouffetard. There are a couple of
sidewalk terraces to sit at there, and the view is great.
2. Les Chevaux de Marly – It has I.M.
Pei's Pyramid on its left, and is built inside the wing which borders Rivoli
Street (if you look towards Place de la Concorde, this is the right wing of the
museum). The place offers a selection of snacks, and a nice warm chocolate. Its
terrace is relatively protected from the wind and rain, which makes it a good
spot in wintertime.
This wonderful
city offers lots of events, activities and attractions, I am sure it won’t let
you go disappointed.
If you want to enjoy a total “let go” Festival, which is
nothing but a pure fun then La Tomatina is the festival for you.
La Tomatina is a Spanish festival
of Tomato Fight held on the last Wednesday of the month August in the town of Buñol of the Valencia region
in Spain .Thousands of participants come from all over the world to fight in a
harmless battle where more than one hundred metric tons of over-ripe tomatoes
are thrown in the streets.
It’s a really Funful festival. The
weeklong festival features music, parades, dancing, and fireworks. On the night
before the tomato fight, participants of the festival compete in a paella
cooking contest.
It has recently caught
limelight in south east Asia because of its apperence in the Hindi movie
"Zindagi Milegi Na
Dobara"
Check out the Cool Video of
La Tomatina
History of La Tomatina
The tomato fight has been a
strong tradition in Buñol since 1944 or 1945. No one is completely certain how
this event originated. Possible theories on how the Tomatina began include a
local food fight among friends, a juvenile class war, a volley of tomatoes from
bystanders at a carnival parade, a practical joke on a bad musician, the
anarchic aftermath of an accidental lorry spillage. One of the most popular
theories is that disgruntled townspeople attacked city councilmen with tomatoes
during a town celebration. Whatever happened to begin the tradition, it was
enjoyed so much that it was repeated the next year, and the year after that,
and so on. The holiday was banned during the Spanish State period under
Francisco Franco for having no religious significance, but returned in the
1970s after his demise.
The Festival : - La Tomatina
Approximately 30,000 people come
to the tomato fight, multiplying by several times Buñol’s normal population of
9,000. In preparation for the dirty mess that will ensue, shopkeepers cover
their storefronts in order to protect them from the carnage.
At around 10 AM., the first event
of the Tomatina begins. A ham is placed upon a cockaigne pole It is called as the "Palo Jabyon"(a large, greased pole), and the tomato fight can begin only when someone is
able to climb to the top and bring it down. People struggle against each other,
climbing atop one another, in order to be the one to pull down the ham. With
this victory, the tomato-throwing begins.
Several trucks throw tomatoes in
abundance in the Plaza del Pueblo. The tomatoes come from Extremadura, where
they are less expensive and are grown specifically for the holidays, and they
are of inferior taste
The signal for the beginning of
the fight is firing of the cannon, the firing the water shot in the air happens
in the beginning and trucks make their entry. and the chaos begins. Once it
begins, the battle is generally every man for himself. Those who takes part in this event are strongly encouraged to wear
protective safety goggles and gloves. In addition, they must squish the
tomatoes before throwing for safety precautions. Another rule is that no one is
allowed to bring into this fight anything that may provoke someone into a more
serious brawl, such as a glass bottle. It is highly frowned upon to tear
someone else’s clothing. Somewhere between an hour and two hours, the fighting
ends and the cannon is fired once more to signal the end. At this point no more
tomatoes can be thrown. The estimated no. of tomatoes used are around 150,000
i.e. over 90,000 pounds. The cleaning process involves the use of fire trucks
to spray down the streets, with water provided from a Roman aqueduct. The participants
use hoses that locals provide to remove the tomato paste from their bodies.
Some participants go to the pool of “los peñones” to wash. After the cleaning,
the village cobblestone streets are pristine due to the acidity of the tomato
disinfecting and thoroughly cleaning the surfaces.
Travelling Tips
There are not many accommodations
for people who come to La Tomatina , and thus many participants stay in
Valencia and travel by bus or train to Buñol, about 38 km outside the city.
Most people come for the day,
arriving on the morning train from Valencia and heading back in the afternoon.
But if you want the full La Tomatina experience, stay for the week-long
celebration, which involve music, dancing, parades and fireworks. The night
before the fight, a paella cooking competition is held where women
traditionally dress in white, and men forego shirts altogether.
Some important tips and Must Follow
Rules of the Festival :-
1.
The tomatoes have to be squashed before throwing to avoid injuries.
2.
No other projectiles except tomatoes are allowed.
3.
Participants have to give way to the truck and lorries.
4. The
festival doesn't allow ripping off T-shirts.
5. Wear
clothes that later you throw away as you will never get it clean again!
6. Make
sure you take a change of clothes for the return bus journey – there are some
public showers in Buñol near the river. You cannot enter the bus with the dirty
clothes! (throw it away or bring a plastic bag with you if you want to keep it
as a souvenir!)
7. Bring goggles (or protect your eyes but don´t wear
glasses). Tomato on your eye can be really acid!
8. Wear
shoes that have a decent grip.
9. You
must not take any bottles nor any kind of object that could cause any incident.
10.
Be careful with lorries going through the village.
11. Cameras are seen as positive
invitations to pelt the owner.
12.
Women should be aware that a wet T-shirt competition is an unofficial part of
the day.
If
you don’t fancy being showered with soggy tomatoes, you can watch the spectacle
in dry 13.comfort on Canal 9, Valencia’s local TV channel.
14.
For more info visit www.latomatina.es (in Spanish).
15.
After the second shot indicative of ending the tomato hurl, no tomatoes should
be thrown.
London , the city of prince , princess , poets and artists . Certainly it is one of the most romantic city in
the world . Now when the Valentine’s Day is approaching , this city has lot to
offer you.
Here your travel guide has chosen
from the various sources the top events in London .
Choose and make plan according to
that to avoid disappointment. Apart from these events every park , hotel , restaurant , pub and club
is going to celebrate this day with their own lovely ideas. So there are plenty
to enjoy here in London and make your love one feel very special
Love Letters Straight
from Your Heart
This astonishing performance
piece from Bristol-based company Uninvited Guests was wreathed in praise at the
2009 Edinburgh Fringe, but no London transfer was forthcoming. It finally comes
to the capital in February 2012 for a two-week stint that, appropriately
enough, culminates in a Valentine's Day performance. In it, the audience are
invited to a banquet, hosted by performers Jess Hoffmann and Richard Dufty.
What actually happens - or at least, how incredibly effective it is - is hard
to describe, but in essence Hoffman and Dufty sequence and stylize a series of
anonymous dedications to loved ones - the living, the dead, the missed - into a
conflagration of emotion that inevitably reduces the room to tears. If anything
else in 2012 is half as moving, it'll be a very good year.
When and Where : Feb 2-14 Southbank Centre, Belvedere Rd,
London, SE1 8XX
Theatre: West End
Valentine's Cupid
Capsule On London Eye
This Valentine's spoil
your loved one and experience the stunning skyline in a romantic Private
Capsule, with Champagne, red rose, and luxury chocolates.
The Valentine's Cupid's
Capsule includes:
·Priority boarding
·Private capsule for 2 people*
·Bottle of Pommery Brut Royal Champagne served by
your host
·Box of Charbonnel et Walker pink champagne
truffles
·One red rose per couple
·Complimentary View 360 Guide per person
·10% online discount
·A Rose Champagne upgrade is also available.
This package is
available from Saturday 11th to Monday 13th February from 11.00am to 8.30pm
every half hour, and on Tuesday 14th February from 11.00am to 10.00pm every
half hour.
When love is in the air then why
not fly . Enjoy the hot air balloon. Remember Balloon flights are totally depend
on the weather condition so please check it beforehand .
For a truly unique
experience, book a place on a unique observing session. The programme includes
a planetarium show, some time on the prime meridian with a glass of bubbly and
astronomers to hand, and a chance to look through our 18-tonne Victorian
telescope at whatever the night sky has to offer. A single red rose is provided
for each couple.
Ticket Price : £28 per
person
When and Where : Tue Feb 14 Royal Museums Greenwich, Romney Rd,
London, SE10 9NF
Taking place every half
hour during the evening of Valentine's Day, the experience includes a red rose
and mini box of chocs for couples and an activity pack for kids.
When and Where : Tue Feb 14 London Eye, South Bank, London, SE1 7PB
The massive fetish
event returns for another gargantuan gropetastic affair for Valentine's
weekend. Kicking things off it's a low key boat party with four areas to play
in for its dedicated bevvy of show-offs, goths, industrial punks, burlesque
beauties and circus freaks. Dress in your latex, fantasy, drag, burlesque,
medical, uniform…finest and prepare to explore.
An evening of dancing,
drinking and decadence for Valentine's Day in honour of the Georgian pastime of
strutting your stuff in the pleasure garden. Write Queer London provides saucy
poetry, there's a chance to design a masquerade mask and listen to an
eighteenth-century girl band. Booking essential.
Valentine's cruises
include a glass of Champagne; chocolates and roses can be purchased on board.
Tickets do not include a flight on the London Eye.
When and Where : Feb 11-14 London Eye, South Bank, London, SE1 7PB
The Food of Love
Valentine's Day-themed
talks, tastings and demonstrations, featuring food connected with love.
When and Where : Sun Feb 12 Keats House, 10 Keats Grove, London,
NW3 2RR
Valentine's Day Cruise
on the London Eye Barracuda
A cruise along the
Thames on the 'Barracuda' for Valentine's Day, departing from the London Eye
Pier. Tickets include a Champagne and canapé reception and a three-course dinner.
Tickets for the London Eye are not included.
When and Where : Tue Feb 14 London Eye, South Bank, London, SE1 7PB
Valentine's Disco Skate
Why not treat your
sweetheart to a skate across the ice in our romantically themed session.
When and Where : Sun Feb 12 Lee Valley Ice Centre, Lea Bridge
Rd, E10 7QL
Promising decadent
cabaret, burlesque performers as well as jazz and swing DJs and singers, your
host, the Baron Von Sanderson, invites you to this chic soirée located at a
fifteenth century tavern in east London to celebrate the most love-filled of
all days. He asks that you observe a strict '20s-'40s dresscode (no
jeans/trainers), but otherwise you're free to jump, jive 'n' wail to your
heart's content.
When and Where : Sat Feb 11 Clubs:
Dress up and dance 373 Commercial Rd, London, E1 0LA
Bedtime Stories
The dress code is
strictly pyjamas and nightgowns at these decadently themed storytelling
evenings from professional storytellers, curated by 40 WiNKS's David Carter and
Miss Rachel Rose Reid and held in Carter's flamboyantly decorated home/hotel.
Tonight, it's the first of three deliriously romantic nights to celebrate Valentine's,
'Tales of Love, Lust and Longing', not just for those who have already found
love, but also for those who are still yearning for it, and in need of a bit of
gentle encouragement. Find it here with mischievous performers Sally Pomme
Clayton and Xanthe Gresham. Booking and the dresscode is essential and the
ticket price includes nibbles and fruity gin cocktails.
When and Where : Wed Feb 8
40 WiNKS, 109 Mile End Rd, E1 4UJ
Love Hand Made?
Valentine's Fair
A designer-maker fair
hosted by Craft Guerrilla with a Valentine's theme. Lots of lovingly made
handicrafts and potential Valentine's gifts. Plus a workshop hosted Etsy where
you can make your own love tokens. The workshop begins at noon and is free but
spaces are limited so arrive early.
When and Where : Sat Feb 11
Vestry House Museum, Vestry Rd, London, E17 9NH (Its Free Event )
Love Stories Tour
In honour of
Valentine's Day, Ben Street leads a tour through the National Gallery in search
of stories of love. Suitable for children aged eight and over, accompanied by
an adult. Places are limited and allocated on arrival. Meet at Pigott Education
Centre Foyer.
When and Where : Tue Feb 14
National Gallery, Trafalgar Square, London, WC2N 5DN ( Its Free Event )
Romantic restaurants
London has many very
romantic restaurants here are the follow the link and discover some of the
lovely places
Sometime you just want to be close to nature. So if you are
in Singapore and quite tired of visiting well organised and highly urbun places
with every modern facility possible then why not try Pulau Ubin
Pulau means island. Pulau Ubin is a small island (10.19 km²)
situated in the north east of Singapore, to the west of Pulau Tekong. With few
hundred villagers , its one of the last rural area left in Singapore. It was
famous for its Granite Quarry. It shows the real picture of a tropical island
with its natural vegetation and features.
Pulau Ubin is a great day trip spent walking or pedaling
through rustic roads under swaying coconut palms, exploring shady trails in
overgrown rubber plantations, checking out secluded beaches and flourishing
mangroves, a chance to see the mangrove life closely. On Ubin, air is fresher and sights and sounds so
soothing to the soul.
How to Get There : Pulau Ubin is off Changi Point,
accessible via Changi jetty (public bumboats) and Marina Country Club (guests
of Ubin Lagoon Resort).
Take a bumboat from Changi Jetty (now called Changi Point
Ferry Terminal), which is near the Changi Village Hawker Centre.
To get to the bumboats, go down the stairs at the Terminal.
This Terminal also serves those going to Penggerang, Johor. So be sure to join
the correct queue for Pulau Ubin.
Cost of the bumboat: $2.50/person Maximum 12 passengers.
Just join the queue and the boats will leave when they have 12 persons. If
there are less than 12 persons, you might have to wait a little while until
enough people turn up. Or you can pay $30 and go straight away.
Bumboat operators run from sunrise to sunset. You can make
special arrangements with the operators for trips after dark.
Getting Around:
Strolls : Ubin is ideal for leisurely strolls. There are
well-marked roads and trails to explore. Stop by the NParks Information Kiosk
near Ubin jetty for a free map and information on the latest happenings.
Cycling: (Recommonded) The best way is to enjoy Ubin is
throw cycling. People bring their own bikes here through boat but if you don’t
want to carry you bike then need not to worry you can just hire bikes there.
You will get the rental shops for bike just after getting down from the boat.
he friendly bicycle rental people can tell you more about Ubin and advise you
on where and how to go to various places of interest.
Taxi: Taxi or cabs are also available for hire . Taxi
,comprising panel vans that can take up to 12 persons. As well as passenger
cars for 4-6 persons. During the weekends, plenty of drivers wait at Ubin jetty
for potential passengers. These can be hired by the hour as well as for
specific destinations. Many of the drivers are experienced and can bring you to
special places or to look for special things. Rates are negotiated before the
journey begins. Van drivers will give you their name cards so you can call or
page them on your handphones when you are ready to go home, or you can
pre-arrange a pick-up time upon your arrival.
But I will not advise the younger people for this as i told
you bike is the best way
What to See :
Get down from boat and rent a cycle (bike) for yourself.
Take some guidance from the shop itself if you have any question in mind. Go to
information centre first and take the free map.
The island is safe.. The ride is suitable especially for
those who are clueless about Ubin. Don't worry if you're a novice cyclist. As
long as you can balance yourself on a bike, you can certainly join the ride!
With maps, Signboards and information you can easily explore
the island.
But you can also ride with a trained guides to discover the
nature and heritage of Ubin , else , Information and map are enough.
Attractions :
Bin Jetty: Your first stop with a good view of Ubin
Town,Chek Jawa to the east. Stop by the NParks Info Kiosk at the exit to get a
free pamphlet of Ubin and advice from the friendly NParks officers on how to
spend your day on Ubin.
Ubin Town: Has eating places, bicycle rental shops and
provision shops that stock almost everything you could possibly need on your
daytrip. Highlights include a wayang stage with a colourful history and a
little shrine.
Heading toward North:The Chek Jawa boardwalk is now open
any tide. Also explore farms, fruit plantations, kampongs, rubber plantation
being taken over by the forest to the two beaches on the northern shore of
Ubin.
Heading toward East:sensory trail, mangroves before rejoining the northern route.
Heading toward West:
quarry views, bukit puaka and mangroves.
Chek Jawa :
Chek Jawa is called as the jewel of Ubin. A
previous coral reef 5,000 years ago, Chek Jawa can be said to be virtually
unspoilt, with a variety of marine wildlife comparable to other islands, such
as sea hares, sea squirts, octopuses, starfishes, sand dollars, fishes,sponges,
cuttlefishes and nudibranches.
The beauty of Chek Jawa is that several different ecosystems
can be seen in one small area. These ecosystems and the plants and animals
found there are no longer common in Singapore. They are also fast disappearing
elsewhere in the world.
Coastal Hill Forest
The hill overlooking Chek Jawa is covered with trees and
plants that shelter and feed a variety of animals. Many plants and animals in
this coastal forest are no longer commonly seen on mainland Singapore. Some of
the rare birds you may spot include the Oriental pied-hornbill and the Red
junglefowl. The liquid bubbling song of the Straw-headed bulbul is often heard.
Among the beautiful and unusual trees you may see are the Critically Endangered
Delek air tree and the Seashore nutmeg. The new tower gives a panoramic view of
Chek Jawa.
Mangroves
The mangroves of Chek Jawa have many interesting plants and
animals. Mangrove trees have unusual shapes and properties as they are adapted
to being covered in seawater at high tide and to grow in soft mud. The new
boardwalk into the mangroves bring you close to these trees as well as the
marvellous Nipah palms. Fiddler crabs and mud skippers are the highlight of a
visit to the mangroves.
Rocky shore
Chek Jawa is among the few places left with a natural rocky
shore, gravel beach and other interesting rock formations. At low tide, we can
have a closer look at some of the strange animals that live here, including
barnacles, crabs and fierce shell-drilling snails. Under the rocks are even
more amazing animals such as living cowries, sea stars and fast flat crabs.
Sandy shore and sand bar
The sandy shore teems with tiny crabs which, if undisturbed,
go about their amusing antics at low tide. The sand bar is the backbone of Chek
Jawa and provides a home for all manner of intriguing creatures. The Common sea
star is a must-see with visitors, and fortunately, it is plentiful on Chek
Jawa. Sadly, it is no longer common elsewhere in Singapore. The sand dollar is
another intriguing creature to examine. The sand bar is also a popular rest
stop for shorebirds that fly in from as far away as Siberia. Overhead, majestic
birds of prey hunt for fishes in the sea.
Seagrass lagoon
A calm, shallow lagoon lush with seagrasses and seaweeds
form behind the sand bar. In the seagrass meadows, a rich variety of marine
creatures shelter during the low tide. First-time visitors are often stunned by
the carpet anemones which are bigger than your face and come in a stunning
variety of colours. At some times of the year, the sea grass may be dotted with
colourful sea cucumbers. Other sea grass dwellers include secretive crabs and
snails. A lucky visitor may also encounter sea hares, squids and mantis.
Coral Rubble Area
The coral rubble area near the front beacon is probably the
richest part of Chek Jawa and also the most fragile. Rarely exposed, even at
low tide, this area shelters delicate sea creatures that prefer to be submerged
most of the time. The big red Knobbly sea star is a favourite! Others include
sponges in bewildering shapes and colours, delicate fan worms and even living
corals! Octopuses, seahorses, branches and colourful flatworms are some of the
other amazing residents of this special part of Chek Jawa.
No poaching please
Please do not remove any wildlife from the shore. Poaching
of hard corals and other sealife threatens this precious shore.
No cycling on the Chek Jawa boardwalk as the 'planks' are
made of concrete and cycling will fracture them. Bicycles are to be parked at
designated bicycle park area near Punai Hut about 50m from the Visitor Centre
(ask for a bicycle lock if you are renting your bicycles on Ubin)
What to do:
1. Leisure Stroll
2.Cycling
3.Mountain Biking - Pulau Ubin is home to one of Singapore's
best mountain bike trails, Ketam Mountain Bike Park which was built in 2007.
The trail is approximately 8 kilometers long and features a wide range of
terrain ranging from open meadows to thick jungle. There are numerous steep but
short climbs and descents. The trail is well-marked with signs indicating the
difficulty level of each section.
The vast majority of the mountain bikers that ride this
trail bring their own bike, although the rental bikes on the island can also be
used.
4. Discovering the unique life of Chek Jawa
5.You can bring your picnic with you as there are several
picnic huts you will find on your way.
6.Ubin are also enjoyed by sailing and canoeing enthusiasts.
7.Stargazing – Because of the clear sky its famous among
stargazers. They camp there sometime.
8. A nice place for Photographers and painters.
Travelling Tips:-
1. Wear light cloths – as you will feel the heat and sweat
after cycling .if you are too prone to sweat then you can keep a spare T-shirt.
2. Sun Screen – keep you sun screen lotion or cream,
3.Cap and Sun Glasses
4. Lock for bikes – though the island is very safe and the
rent shop people will say you to leave your bike at the stand without lock
while site visit but its better you keep locks with you.
5. Mosquito Repellent Cream/lotion – It is a must thing to pack
with you before heading for Ubin as this island is having tiny mosquitos because
for its wilderness.
6. Keep some small food bites and water with you as while
biking you might need some refreshments
7. Wear sports shoes.
8. You can keep umbrella .Though you can find plenty of shelters around
the Ubin.
9. In case of rain avoid taking shelter under any tree to
avoid Thunder stroke danger .
10. Remember to come back at the boat boarding point on time
in the evening. As the last boat operates till sunset. If you are planning to
stay there for longer time then make your own arrangements, Though there are
not much to do after sunset, if you have not planned any special activity for
the dark hours of the day.
11. Great with Friends :
Last but not the least , It is the place good for enjoying with the group
of friends. So make the group of 3 or more friends and hit the island.
Enjoy your special day out
with nature , away from the urban life in Pulau Ubin
.jpg)
