Cameron Highlands: A Cool & Green Escape From KL City's Heat

Time for another update! This time, my family and I decided to revisit a popular haunt of ours for holidays, Cameron Highlands. The last time I came here was 5 years back, and boy, the place has changed a lot since my last visit.

This trip was absolutely different from the rest. Usually we stayed at apartments, but we decided to book at Century Pines Resort instead. The stay was comfortable, clean and quiet. I'd love to come back again, definitely! While on this trip, we also tried not to travel during peak times as the traffic snarl up and down the mountain can be terrible. A short 10 minute ride can easily take up to 30 minutes or more!

Since my last trip here, a few new attractions have sprung up, and one of the better ones is Cameron Lavender. To get here, take a drive heading towards to Boh's Sungai Palas Plantation from Brinchang and from there it's another 5 minutes drive.

While the entry fee may be a little steep (RM6 for adults, RM4 for children), rest assured there are many attractions worthy of photo opportunities in this attraction. I for one, thought it was an extremely worthy price to pay for the upkeep of the place. Don't forget to stop for a picture with this cute Beetle!

And when you're at it, make sure to try the Hokkaido Lavender ice cream flavour (imported from Japan)! Priced at RM5.90, there are many other flavours to choose from, such as strawberry, chocolate etc. but do make sure to try the lavender flavoured one! You won't regret it!

I saw some plants that looked so much like the lavender, but have a lighter green shade, as if it's been bleached. After doing some research, turns out the plant is a relative of the common lavender, also known as the Spanish Lavender. You'll never know what you'll learn by going on a trip!

I initially wanted to check out the Rose Centre attraction at Kea Farm, but since it was near closing time, it wasn't worth it. Judging from the leaflet though, there are many attractions in this centre as well. Do check it out if you happen to be at Kea Farm. I did manage to get a shot of this repainted jeep which was recently decommisioned in Cameron Highlands at Rose Centre though. Gone were the days where these jeeps ply the mountain routes daily for deliveries, as they were now replaced by the white Toyota Hilux.

Last but not least, the highlight of my trip was the short hike from Century Pines Resort to Parit Falls. To get to the waterfall, take a small slip route from the side of the resort (there is a orange signboard that says Parit Waterfall 400m) and walk through a dense jungle before coming to a opening where the entrance to the park where a recreational spot is located. Near the entrance a view of the waterfall is visible. Take a short walk and you'll see the waterfall. The walk takes about 30 to 40 minutes, and it's great to feel the cool air on your skin and breathe in the fresh unpolluted air.

This trip is a nature-filled one that made me see Cameron Highlands in a new light, from the tourist attraction it has evolved to be over the years. I will definitely come again in a few years time, and hopefully gain new happy memories.

Ever the traveller, the author is preparing for her trip to Japan in a few months. Stay tuned for updates on my coming trip to Osaka, Kyoto and Tokyo!

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Time For Some Lip Service

It's been a long time since I've last wrote... it's been a long 8 months of silence, and I'm glad to finally find some time to blog about something that's been on my vanity table for a long time.

Guess what? Not cosmetics, but lip products! Hahaha... caught some of you unawares right? 

Alright, not gonna talk long and shall get to the point. I don't use lipstick because I have sensitive lips, dry and chapped skin easily form after an application of lipstick, which could lead to blisters :(

I have never showed much interest in skincare or lipcare but since my trip to South Korea I've begun to take more care of my skin and lips. Korean women look young for their age, and I think it's partly because of the care they take to preserve their youthfulness.

In the picture above, only the Lip Smacker (in my favourite Strawberry Fanta flavour) and Maybelline coloured lipbalm were purchased in Malaysia. 

The rest were bought in South Korea, and before you think that's an awful lot, let me tell you that I can easily buy back more if I didn't resist myself :p

The Prestige Snail Lip Treatment, cherry and blueberry lipbalm were from Tony Moly, I couldn't resist picking the lipbalm which were packaged cutely like a real fruit! I was pleasantly surprised when I found out they threw in a small bottle of Cat Chu Wink liptint as a free gift :D

From Etude House, I bought the 'It's Fine' and 'Don't Worry' coloured lipbalms, as well as Sweet Recipe Cupcake All Over Colour and Juicy lipgloss. Of all the products from Etude House, I loved the 'Don't Worry' coloured lipbalm the best. It has a light mango scent and a peachy-pink colour, and my lips feel moisturised after each use, definitely my best buy so far.

Lastly, the Vaseline Lip Essence in Cherry flavour is a must-buy if you're in South Korea during the harsh cold months. As I was in Seoul in November, the chilly wind made my lips super-dry and even the most moisturing lipbalm couldn't help. This tube of Vaseline worked like a charm, and boy, thank goodness I decided to stop in a drugstore in Edae, where I bought this. My lips would have cracked by the time I came home had I not found this then.

Looking forward to my trip to Japan in the second half of this year. Wonder what goodies do they have in store for me over there? Stay tuned for updates on my coming trip to Osaka, Kyoto and Tokyo!

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JYJ Shows Their Real Selves Through 'Just Us' Album

JYJ is back with their latest album 'JUST US' after a hiatus of 3 years! In this second album, we get to hear the evolution of their music to a more mature and sexy sound.

I was actually surprised that they came back with a mellower sound compared with their previous album, where songs such as 'Get Out' and and 'Mission' are more fast-paced dance songs. Even 'Unnamed Song' was particularly different because it was written to express pent-up frustrations.

The title song 'Back Seat' is a sexy R&B song that shows that JYJ are now 'officially' men, no longer sweet poster boys. Personally I like this song very much, although Engrish is all over the place. That's JYJ for you!



The music video is equally sexy as well, and I think they shot it that way since they knew it wouldn't make it past the Korean broadcasters anyway. Why waste time when they can please all their global fans? I particularly think the video is fresh especially the light show part at the end. It's like as if they have broken free from box sets (ahem... which a certain agency favours for music videos) finally.

My other favourites off the album are '2.30AM', 'So So', 'Dad, You There?', and 'BaboBoy'. I love listening to their harmony in '2.30AM' although the song is so sad, since it's talking about not being able to sleep because of an ex. Though I can't sleep after listening to it in the wee hours in the morning too...

'So So' is a ballad littered with many English phrases that is quite easy listening. I find it quite uplifting, though it's actually talking about loving someone without much dedication... hence the title, 'So So'. I love how the English phrases gel with the Korean lyrics in this one very much.

'Dad, You There?' is a song written by Yoochun for his late father. It's a mellow song but instead of making me sleepy, it actually gives me a chance to unravel after a long day. I can totally listen to this song all day. Their voices in this song will definitely melt your heart!

'Baboboy' is actually a mid-tempo dance song, and I didn't really like it till I listened to it a few times. I died when Yoochun whispered 'Hello beautiful, is anybody home?' :p Too bad they don't have a music video for this song, but you should check out the fancams of their performances in their concerts. Hip trusts way to go!

Each member's solo songs also have shown evolution since their last album. Junsu's solo is musical-inspired, Jaejoong's rock-inspired and Yoochun's hippie-inspired. Just joking!

Yoochun's '30' is as fresh as his previous 'Unnamed Song' since this round he is addressing the worries (and gratitude?) in turning thirty. I think they will forever stay young in my memory although they have reached thirty... But anyway, he slow-raps in the song, almost as if telling a story by talking. He inserts bits and pieces of people who have been special in his life (eg. Junsu, Jaejoong, Yoohwan and Dong Hee), which I think was pretty clever :D

I have never been disappointed in a JYJ album so far and I wish it will stay that way. They will soon enlist in the military once they finish their world tour, and I will still be waiting for them even after that. Always Keep The Faith, yo!

The author is happy yet sad that 'JUST US' signals the impending military enlistment of the members. This album is definitely precious to all fans!

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How To Cook Yukgaejang (The Simplest Way)

If you're a fan of Korean food, chances are you've heard of Yukgaejang, a spicy beef broth that will sure to leave you craving for more.

During my trip to South Korea, I chanced upon an instant Yukgaejang soup base from Ottogi being sold in a grocery store. Since I loved the spicy beef soup so much, I decided to buy one pack to try back home.

Bought the Yukgaejang instant soup base in a box with another foil packaging inside. I think it costs around 3000 won (approximately RM9), but mianhae, my memory might have failed me since it was some time ago when I bought this.

Inside the foil packaging you will see 2 dried soup base and 2 sachets of oil. You can opt to use one pack each for a single portion, but I decided to use all since I was cooking for two persons.

The instructions were in Korean, so I had to take a wild guess on what fresh ingredients to add. Meat (beef or chicken) is a must, to give the soup more flavour. I used chicken since I couldn't find fresh beef :(

I also added mushrooms, some spring onions and some fresh chillies which I sliced to thin strips. Bring all ingredients and soup base together to a boil, and voila! Instant Yukjaejang awaits you!

Overall, my instant Yukgaejang tasted good, but would have been better with beef slices I think. I have yet to come across the same Ottogi instant Yukgaejang soup base in Malaysian stores, but if you have, do drop me a comment on where I can get it.

Hoping to try cooking this again in the future, whether from scratch or with instant soup base. But the latter probably warrants a trip to South Korea again... ;)

The author regrets not having the foresight to buy back more instant soup bases home. Cooking Korean food for comfort would be so much easier then!

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Korean Beauty Show: 'Get It Beauty' with Yoo In Na

'Get It Beauty' is one of South Korea's top beauty television programme which is currently hosted by actress Yoo In Na and Jaekyung of idol group Rainbow.

As South Korean women are obsessed with beauty and flawless skin, this programme will show you how to copy the latest looks in Korean dramas and K-pop music videos.

In South Korea, the programme is widely known to conduct blind tests on beauty products, and whenever you see a product in a skincare or make-up store with the 'Get It Beauty' recommendation, rest assured the product will not disappoint on its promises.

I was shopping in Myeongdong, Seoul and I came across many of 'Get It Beauty' recommendations in the plethora of make-up and skincare stores. I bought Etude House's Moistfull Collagen Cream which was recommended by the programme, and surely the cream worked wonders on my skin! :)

I hope those of you who are interested in better skincare and make-up will benefit from watching the show!

To watch the show with English subtitles, click on the link here!

The author did not regret buying a product recommended by 'Get It Beauty' programme. She hopes those who are shopping in South Korea will use it as a benchmark to buy products worth-for-your-money in the future.

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High4 & IU Breaks Norms in 'Not Spring, Love, or Cherry Blossoms'

Rookie group High4 debuted with a sweet ballad track 'Not Spring, Love, or Cherry Blossoms' featuring IU, the nation's little sister. 

Though they looked more like the typical idol group, they can sing well and harmonize well with IU, creating a wonderful melody for the cherry blossom season.

Though the song isn't about falling in love, it is rather about feeling lonely when everyone is out enjoying one of the most beautiful times of spring with their loved one.

When I looked up the English translations for the lyrics, the lines below caught my attention:

Everyone but me is in love, singing spring songs
Flowers bloom and sway before my eyes
But I want to hear something else
Something to sweep away everything
Not spring, love or cherry blossoms

Check out the music video for 'Not Spring, Love, or Cherry Blossoms' below!



Looking forward to listen to their next release!

The author loves the cherry blossom season when all the streets are lined with pink blossoms, and intends to at least see it in person once in a lifetime!

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Park Yoochun, The Elite Bodyguard in 'Three Days'

It's been awhile since I last posted about a K-drama here... So to make a grand comeback, I've decided to write about the K-drama 'Three Days' starring JYJ member Park Yoochun (whee!!), Son Hyun Joo, Jang Hyun Seong, among many others.

‘Three Days’ is a drama that centers on the race to find the South Korean president, portrayed by Son Hyun Joo, who goes missing at his holiday villa.

The clock ticks as his elite bodyguard, portrayed by Yoochun, hunts for him in the short span of three days.
Directed by Shin Kyung Soo (Tree With Deep Roots) and written by Kim Eun Hee (Ghost, Sign), the drama shows lot of promise to be stellar in terms of production and cast.

The drama is currently airing in South Korea and has been getting good ratings and reviews. Although it may seem like a drama that will appeal more to the male audience, many females have been interested in the drama, probably mainly because of the main lead, Yoochun (and there's where I come in too!).

‘Three Days’ will be premiering on ONE HD (Astro B.yond, Channel 393) starting April 2, 2014 and airs every Wednesday and Thursday at 8.55pm. Don’t miss out on this cool action-packed drama! 

The author is excited to catch 'Three Days' on air soon. Although she had already watched it online as quick as the fan-subbers subbed the Korean broadcast of the drama. Tee hee!

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Tous Les Jours at WOLO, Bukit Bintang: Cozy Korean-French bakery in the heart of KL

Tous Les Jours' Berry Berry Tiramisu overlooking the busy Bukit Bintang street

I recently had the chance to visit the Korean-French bakery Tous Les Jours at WOLO, Bukit Bintang. I just couldn't resist walking in as the cozy ambience attracted my attention.

The name Tous Les Jours (pronounced TOO-LEH-JOO), which means 'everyday' in French may have some thinking that the bakery is a French chain, but in actual fact the chain originated in South Korea. During my trip to South Korea, I did manage to see a few of these outlets, but did not have the chance to try their products.

Now that I'm back in KL, I wish that I can visit the bakery 'everyday'... Or whenever I miss South Korea. Sigh....

So back to my visit.... Although I went in mid-afternoon, the bakery was quite full, and there were a few empty seats left.

Tea break time at Tous Les Jours while people-watching

I had a Berry Berry Tiramisu (RM8.90) and a Mango Yoghurt drink (RM10) while my brothers picked up a few buns.

The tiramisu was smooth and creamy... Yummy! And not to mention there was a little macaron to sample too... My stomach was full after one cup but instead my mouth still wants more. Guess I gotta come here 'everyday' huh? :p

My brother loved their signature Milk Bun (RM3.80), which was expected since he was a milk lover. One bun just wasn't enough, he said, so we had to take-away more home!

Tous Les Jours' Mango Yoghurt drink

I wanted to have their Iced Flakes (patbingsu), but sadly they were not available. Instead, their Mango Yoghurt did manage to help me cool down from the blistering hot outside. It wasn't overly milky, yet not too sweet, so I'll give this a 3.5 out of 5. Could do better though if they had stirred the syrup at the bottom before serving.

Tous Les Jours' pastries selection

They also had some French pastries on sale too, which I have yet to try. I'll make sure to try it the next round!

Tous Les Jours' buns on display

When we entered the shop, we were overwhelmed by the bread and pastries on display. Everyone seemed good and we couldn't make up our minds!

Tous Les Jours cakes and desserts on display

Their cakes and desserts, especially their tiramisu and macarons are so irresistible. I couldn't help but pick out a tiramisu to try, even though I wanted to try their pastries in the first place.

Tous Les Jours' country-inspired decor

I loved their country-inspired decor and also the cozy ambience where you can relax from the hustle and bustle of shopping in KL's Golden Triangle, grab a drink and some buns and pastries while resting your tired feet.

Tous Les Jours' WOLO: the upstairs felt like a huge reading room

I sat upstairs and I felt that the decor gave me the feels of sitting in a huge reading room, where I can have my drink and cake at the same time. 

While relaxing, I heard the strains of K-indie band Busker Busker's song playing in the background. That moment just transported me back to South Korea again because most cafes there loved Busker Busker's songs...

Tous Les Jours buns for breakfast (wait... somebody stole some of my madeleines already!)

We brought home some buns for breakfast the next day, and the buns were still (gladly) soft like the day before. The Chocolate Madeleines (RM3.90 for pack of 3) were awesome (dipped with coffee), and as you can see in the picture above, some were already stolen the night before!

Even my elderly grandparents loved the Red Bean buns and madeleines, so it's quite safe to say they cater to our Malaysian tastes as well.

I'll definitely make Tous Les Jours a place to stop by whenever I'm in the vicinity next time!

The store address is:
WOLO Bukit Bintang
126A-C, Jalan Bukit Bintang
Kuala Lumpur
Tel : +603-4065 0088
Opening Hours : 8AM – 11PM

They do have a store in Bangsar as well:
39-41 Jalan Telawi 3 | Bangsar Baru | 59100 Kuala Lumpur
Tel : +603-2201 3526
Opening Hours : 7AM – 12AM (Sun - Thurs)
7AM - 1AM (Fri, Sat & Public Holiday)

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TLJMalaysia

Pic credits: TLJ Malaysia

The author is glad to have finally found a place where she can visit whenever her 'hunger pangs' for South Korea comes.

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2NE1 Finally 'Come Back Home'

 

I have been looking forward to writing this piece over the last 2 years. I can't believe it's being posted on my blog at last! With this, it signals the return of YG's hip hop/dance/electronica girl group, 2NE1!

I never particularly loved 2NE1 for their style and sound during their debut days, but ever since the release of 'I Am The Best' I have been a converted fan.

Imagine my excitement when 'I Love You' was released late 2012, ahead of their album's release. After many of waiting, the album never came. Fans like myself were frustrated, but remained loyal and calm.

Then in 2013, we were teased by the release of 'Falling In Love', followed closely by 'Do You Love Me'. Speculations of an album release was in the air.

And then the long wait began again... this time many were already calling YG a troll... until the release of the slow-tempo number 'Missing You' in November 2013. They even performed the song during the 2013 MAMA Awards in Hong Kong!

Then came another long wait. We were being left in the cold after being all teased up! Then around January 2014 rumours which led to confirmation of a new album were all around the internet.

After a superbly long wait, their music video for 'Come Back Home' and 'Happy' are released on March 3. Their album dropped on the online stores on February 26, on CL's birthday. As expected, they achieved an all-kill on the music charts!

Check out the music video for 'Come Back Home' below!


In their latest album, 2NE1 managed to keep their sound fresh while experimenting with a more hip-hop/swagger style mixed up with some mellow ballads. 

While 'Crush' reminds me very much of 'I Am The Best', 'Come Back Home' is a mid-tempo track which brings out the best in every member, in terms of vocal and individual colour.

Another track which I loved was CL's solo 'MTBD', also known as 'Mental Breakdown', which is a mind-blowing track full of CL's signature swagger and rap. While the bass proves to be an addictive element, the lyrics itself is another story.

The lyrics revolved around karma and revenge towards a former lover, but the part which I liked most was the reference to Bob Marley's famous hit, "Karma karma karma is looking for you/ Watchu' gonna do when they come for you"!

Their latest album 'Crush' certainly did not disappoint me the very least and to sum up what it's done to me, let me borrow a line from one of their songs, 'Boom, boom, boom!"

Check out the music for 'Happy' below!



The author is totally relieved that the long wait is over. Now let's look forward to 2NE1's upcoming 'All Or Nothing' concert in Malaysia this coming May!

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CNBLUE: They 'Can't Stop' Surprising Us

CNBLUE is back with a new album a year since their last, titled 'Can't Stop'. Are you readers excited?

Their past albums have centered on a pop-rock sound, but this time CNBLUE returns with a mellower sound, more of a soft-rock sound.

Although I have always listened to their songs, this particular album captured my interest since I'm a fan of ballads.

My 2 favourite songs off the album are 'Can't Stop' (title track) and 'Sleepless Night'. While the former is a half-ballad track which picks up pace in the chorus, the latter is a soothing number that will (ironically) soothe your restless mind on a sleepless night.

Check out the music video to 'Can't Stop' below!



Can't wait to see them perform their latest hits on music shows soon!

The author is in a good mood lately, what with new releases from CNBLUE, Girls' Generation and 2NE1 being released back to back!

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