I planned a getaway to Manado after finding out Iโd be rolling off a 3-year project, but after booking it, I discovered I had to stay on for another two months. Yepโthatโs me. Still, the trip is on!
Bobocabin Bunaken Hills (2 nights at the mainland)
We didnโt make any plans for the mainland. I was initially considering a day trip to Tangkoko National Park since I love wildlife, but Iโve decided instead to stay in and catch up on some work with the best views.
The cabin was comfortable and made for a relaxing getaway. The only area we felt could be improved was the food selection. Since the property is located about 20 minutes away from the city, having more dining options on-site would have been a huge plus. In the end, we ordered most of our meals through Grab throughout our stay.
If you’re planning a visit, it might be a good idea to prepare some BBQ ingredients beforehand and bring them along. We were initially interested in purchasing the property’s BBQ package, but the selection was quite limited and didn’t really appeal to us. Despite that, we still enjoyed our stay and appreciated the peaceful atmosphere.
Bobocha Siladen (3 nights at the island)
I hadnโt been diving in over a year, and even though I didnโt have a dive buddy on the same trip, I decided to go for itโand Iโm really glad I did. I ended up on a private dive trip, which made the whole experience feel relaxed, comfortable, and incredibly enjoyable. It was also a unique dive compared to those Iโve done before. We drift-dived alongside a massive coral wall, allowing us to take in the stunning underwater scenery while moving effortlessly with the current. It was both exhilarating and peaceful at the same time, and a dive I wonโt be forgetting anytime soon.
Of course, it wasnโt on the cheaper side, but I was okay with that. Siladen Island was a beautiful, quiet little island with direct beach access and snorkeling available anytime. The sea visibility was incredible, and the corals were healthy and vibrant. The only downside was that the currents could get quite strong at times. We even spotted turtles and a pufferfish puffed up in defense!
I was really drawn to visit Shanghai after finding out how easy it is to get halal food thereโsomething that made travelling a lot more comfortable. Of course, another big reason was to finally visit Shanghai Disneyland and experience the famous Tron ride. It definitely lived up to the hype and added a fun highlight to the trip.
Yaoxue Ice and Snow World
Snowboarding has always been on my bucket list, and being in Shanghai made it the perfect opportunity to finally give it a try. We stayed at the Vignette Collection Shanghai Snow World Hotel, which came with the perk of one hour of early entry to Snow World.
While we were getting geared up, one of the instructors approached us and asked if we’d like a lesson. Since neither of us had any snowboarding experience, we said yes without hesitation. The lesson cost about $150 per person and lasted for an hour.
The only downside was that the instructor spoke only Chinese, so my friend had to translate for me throughout the session. Even so, it was an amazing experience. One hour was definitely not enough, and Iโd love to continue learning and improve my snowboarding skills in the future.
Disneyland
The atmosphere at Shanghai Disneyland felt much more relaxed compared to Tokyo Disneyland. To make the most of our day, we purchased Premier Passes for most of the major attractions, which allowed us to skip the long queues and spend more time enjoying the park.
Thanks to that, we managed to experience most of the rides. My absolute favorites were TRON Lightcycle Power Run and Pirates of the Caribbean: Battle for the Sunken Treasure. Both attractions were incredibly immersive and exceeded my expectations. If I ever visit again, those would definitely be the first rides on my list.
Yu Garden
Huangpu River Cruise / The Bund
Shanghai Tower
Tianzifang
Nanjing Road
Shanghai Romance Park
If you’re visiting Shanghai, I highly recommend Shanghai Romance Park. The performances were incredibly impressive, with stunning visuals, elaborate costumes, and well-executed stage effects. The production quality exceeded my expectations and kept me engaged throughout the show. It was definitely one of the highlights of the trip and an experience I would recommend to anyone looking for a unique cultural attraction in Shanghai. PS: You do need a Chinese speaker with you to help with the translation.
Weekend trip to Nantong (Sendi Tribe Treehouse)
We took the train from Shanghai to Nantong, which was about a 1.5-hour journey. One thing that caught us by surprise was the security screening. I had purchased quite a few mini perfume bottles from HARMAY, and although the total volume probably didn’t exceed 200 ml, the staff seemed more concerned about the number of bottles rather than the combined volume.
For a moment, I thought I would have to arrange for my purchases to be shipped elsewhere or sent directly to the airport. Thankfully, after some discussion, they eventually allowed us to pass through with the items.
After that experience, we decided to hire a car for the journey back to Shanghai instead. It was definitely more convenient and cost us around $160 per car.
Yang SPACE Hot Spring Life
We spent our last night at YANG SPACE Spa to unwind and relax before heading home. I definitely experienced a bit of culture shock when we were told to change in the ladies’ locker room. Everyone was completely naked, and to be honest, we felt quite uncomfortable at firstโdefinitely not something we’re used to, lol.
Despite the initial awkwardness, it was an interesting experience and gave us a glimpse into a different spa culture. Would I do it again? Maybe not, but it certainly made for a memorable story from the trip!
Although Beijing was not initially part of my itinerary, we decided to make a short detour while travelling through China to visit its most iconic landmarks.
A major highlight was the Great Wall of China. The toboggan ride down the wall was both thrilling and memorable, despite a slow and slightly frustrating start. Once it picked up speed, the descent became smooth and genuinely enjoyable.
We also visited the Forbidden City, an architectural masterpiece and a must-see in the city. However, the experience felt somewhat limited as access was restricted to the exterior courtyards, with entry into the palace interiors not permitted.
Our trip to Cambodia was completely impromptu. My friend and I decided to take a day off work and spontaneously book a weekend getaway to Phnom Penh. With barely any planning involved, we simply went with the flow and explored the city as we went along.
We travelled to the South Island of New Zealand during the winter of 2025 and spent a week exploring the region by caravan. Road-tripping through the stunning landscapes made the experience even more memorable โ from snow-capped mountains and crystal-clear lakes to scenic drives that felt straight out of a postcard. Travelling by caravan also gave us the freedom to move at our own pace and fully immerse ourselves in the beauty of New Zealandโs South Island.
Day 1 – Day trip to Kaikoura
We had planned to take a whale-watching flight in Kaikลura, but unfortunately it was cancelled due to the weatherโone of the realities of travelling in winter! Despite that, we still had a wonderful time exploring the town and taking in the stunning coastal scenery. We even spotted what might have been a whale in the distance. I was tempted to fly my drone over for a closer look, but I couldn’t be bothered walking all the way back to the car to fetch it and then trekking back to the beach againโso I let it go. Maybe next time!
Day 2 – Day trip to Rakaia Gorge
Day 3 – A night in Hanmer Springs
We went horse riding for two hours, and by the end of the session, we could barely feel our legs! It was my very first time riding a horse, and although I was nervous at the beginning, it turned out to be a great experience overall. The only challenge was that my horse seemed unable to resist the grass and kept trying to stop for a snack! Iโd definitely do it againโjust maybe not for two hours next time.
Day 4 – Drive to Mount Cook
The views at Mount Cook were absolutely unrealโIโll just let the photos speak for themselves. We were quite lucky that the Hooker Valley Track was open, as it had been closed for a period of time before our visit. Unfortunately, we couldn’t make it all the way to the suspension bridges because the trail was incredibly slippery, and not everyone in our group had winter crampons. Even so, the scenery along the way was more than enough to make the trip worthwhile!
Day 5 – Drive to Lake Tekapo
Day 6 – Drive to Queenstown
Day 7 – Explore Milford Sound
We decided to take a tour bus to Milford Sound instead of driving the caravan, as we thought it would be the quicker and more convenient option. Since caravans have lower speed limits and we only had one day to travel to Milford Sound and return to Queenstown, it made more sense to leave the driving to someone else. The journey is quite longโaround 3 to 4 hours each wayโso it would have been a very tiring day behind the wheel.
Fortunately, the weather was on our side, which meant we were able to take a helicopter back to Queenstownโan unexpected bonus! Along the way, we landed on a snow-covered mountain peak and got to enjoy some time playing in the snow, which was definitely a highlight of the trip.
The helicopter ride back costs around $700 per person for a one-way journey, so itโs certainly not cheap. However, if it fits within your budget, Iโd highly recommend it. The views are incredible, and itโs one of those experiences that makes the trip even more memorable.
Day 8 – Activities in Queenstown
There were quite a few activities we had planned to do in Queenstown, but unfortunately the rain had other ideas. Even so, the Shotover Jet is a must-do, rain or shine! The combination of speed, sharp turns, and getting completely soaked just adds to the thrill.
We also decided to try an escape room, which turned out to be one of the funniest experiences of the trip. Watching a group of self-proclaimed “alphas” attempt to work together under pressure was pure entertainment. There was plenty of confidence, lots of questionable decision-making, and somehow we still managed to make it out in the end!
All in all, winter in New Zealand is definitely not for those who struggle with the cold! That said, travelling during the winter season comes with its perks. Since it’s considered the low season, car rentals, accommodation, and holiday parks tend to be much more affordable compared to the busy summer months.
The shorter daylight hours also mean slower-paced days and, more often than not, an early night and a good rest after a day of exploring. While the weather can be unpredictable and some activities may be affected, the snow-covered landscapes and quieter attractions make it a unique experience in its own right.
Iโll definitely be backโthis time during New Zealandโs summer in 2026. See you again soon, New Zealand! ๐ณ๐ฟโ๏ธโ๏ธโจ
Now I finally understand why so many people fall in love with Japan. I miss the sense of peace, the amazing food, and of course, the breathtaking views of Mount Fuji. We were incredibly lucky to witness clear views of Mount Fuji on several days throughout our trip, which made the experience even more memorable. I already miss Japan and would love to return again soon :(
This trip to Japan was actually quite impromptu. I was on a short hiatus from work and decided to take 1.5 months of leave, so I thought it would be the perfect opportunity to squeeze in one more trip before the fasting month. Since cherry blossom season was approaching, Japan felt like the obvious choice.
We started our journey in Tokyo, spending our first few days exploring the city. Unfortunately, I fell sick on the very first day โ something I had already anticipated โ but the cold weather in Japan made it even worse. I found myself getting out of breath after walking just a few hundred metres, which was completely unlike me. Eventually, I decided to take it easy for the evening and told my friend that I would head back to the hotel to rest.
We also rented a car for a few days to explore areas outside of Tokyo, which turned out to be one of the highlights of the trip. Driving through the outskirts gave us the freedom to discover places at our own pace, including the charming coastal town of Kamakura, the beautiful cherry blossoms in Kawazu, and the stunning views of Mount Fuji in Kawaguchiko. Each destination had its own unique charm and offered a completely different side of Japan beyond the busy city streets of Tokyo.
Experiencing a liveaboard trip had always been on my bucket list, and I finally had the chance to do one in Komodo last December. Although the weather wasnโt ideal due to the rainy season, with occasional choppy seas, we were still lucky enough to enjoy beautiful sunshine during the mornings and afternoons.
Despite the unpredictable conditions, the experience was unforgettable โ waking up to stunning island views, spending days out at sea, and exploring the beauty of Komodo was truly special. I would absolutely do another liveaboard in the future, and next time, Iโd love to experience diving in Komodo as well!
We were also lucky enough to spot majestic manta rays, baby sharks, and the famous pink beaches that Komodo is known for. Seeing these incredible marine creatures up close and relaxing on the stunning blush-coloured shores made the entire experience even more unforgettable.
Namibia, known as the Land of the Brave, has a powerful history โ and breathtaking landscapes to match. Huge thanks to @NamibiaTours&Safaris for helping us curate the perfect itinerary, including car rental and hotel bookings. The package cost us around SGD 3,500 per person. Honestly, Namibia has become one of my absolute favourite places to visit.
Driving in Namibia was surprisingly easy. We used our Singapore driving licenses (since theyโre in English) and didnโt get asked for an international driving permit, even by the rental company. That said, we were stopped by the police once โ no fine, but a good reminder that itโs safer to bring an international driving permit just in case.
Day 1 – Arrival in Windhoek and car rental collection
Upon arrival at the airport, we were warmly greeted by Namibia Tours, who then brought us to their office to collect our car. We were pleased with the vehicle provided โ a Fortuner SUV โ which was perfect for our road trip. The staff gave us a thorough briefing to ensure we were well-prepared. Unlike driving in the city, itโs crucial to know how to check tyre pressure and change a tyre if needed, especially since weโd be heading to remote areas where help might not be readily available.
Check in at Olive Grove Guesthouse
Day 2 – Driving to Sossuvlei[6 hours drive]
The drive to Sossusvlei was incredibly scenic โ we even spotted a few animals along the way! Desert Hills Lodge was one of the few places that truly lived up to expectations. What you see in the pictures is exactly what you get. I was in awe watching the sunset and gazing at a sky full of stars at night. It does get quite cold in the evenings and early mornings, with strong winds blowing through โ so pack warm!
Check in at Desert Hills Lodge
Day 3 โ Day tour in Sossusvlei
Be prepared to walk a lot on this day! We visited the famous dunes โ though I didnโt manage to complete the hike as it was an especially windy day. Climbing the dunes with your feet sinking into the sand was incredibly exhausting. Still, the Deadvlei (Dead Pan) is one of the absolute highlights of Namibia that you must experience โ it’s surreal and unforgettable.
Day 4 – Driving to Swakopmund[6 hours drive]
Upon arriving in Swakopmund, we geared up for an ATV ride through the dunes. While it wasnโt the most thrilling ATV experience Iโve had, itโs a great option for beginners or anyone trying it for the first time. The views made up for the mellow ride โ vast sand dunes as far as the eye can see, with the ocean on the horizon. Truly a unique landscape!
Check in at Brigadoon Boutique Guesthouse
Day 5 – Exploring Swakopmundin the dunes and sea
I was really looking forward to visiting Swakopmund to see the flamingos โ and there were plenty of them! We also joined a boat tour to spot marine life, followed by a thrilling 4×4 adventure exploring the towering dunes. It was the perfect mix of wildlife and adrenaline in one day!
Day 6 – Driving to Etosha National Park[6 hours drive]
While waiting for our night game drive, we spotted giraffes and impalas right from our lodge โ which was pretty cool! The night game drive itself, however, wasnโt as exciting as we had hopedโฆ to be honest, I even dozed off for a little while.
Check in at Epacha Game Lodge & Spa
Day 7 – Game Drive at Etosha National Park
Etosha National Park is home to a massive salt pan so large it can be seen from space! The Etosha Pan spans over 4,800 kmยฒ and transforms into a shallow lake during the rainy season, attracting flamingos and other birdlife in huge numbers.
Day 8 – Driving back to Windhoek[6 hours drive]
Driving back to the city with a heavy heart, but so grateful for the incredible memories weโve made on this trip. Iโd love to do it all over again someday!
Victoria Falls is one of the largest waterfalls in the world, standing at an impressive 108 metres tall and stretching 1,708 metres wide. The falls were formed through the gradual erosion of land by the powerful flow of the Zambezi River over thousands of years. Visitors can experience the falls from both Zambia and Zimbabwe, and we chose to fly into Zimbabwe as it was more accessible from Tanzania.
Visiting Victoria Falls had been on my bucket list for years. I first wanted to go during my previous trip to South Africa, but we simply didnโt have enough time to fit it into the itinerary. Fast forward two years later, and we finally made it to Zimbabwe!
Victoria Falls tour in Zambia and Zimbabwe
Sunrise at the Bamba Tram, Helicopter flight over Victoria Falls, Sunset river cruise
It has been 2 years since I last went to a Safari trip. I wanted to see the great migration, hence we have decided to experience it in Serengeti, Tanzania. The package cost us $3500 per person for 4 days 3 nights, including transport, accommodation and meals. I have arranged the tour with Amshar Serengeti, and honestly I couldn’t say I enjoyed it 100% because we did not have enough time exploring. Our time were mostly spent on travelling, which is a bummer, and the vehicle broke down each day which consumed our time. Nonetheless, I am still grateful for this experience! We didn’t manage to see the big 5 this time round, but we did see the lion, elephant and african buffalo! Our guide spotted a leopard but it was too far for us to capture it. Also, I have learnt from my previous experience that I should bring a zoom lens camera and I am so glad I did! Loved capturing every moment in the Safari with my new toy!
Day 1 – Travelling from Arusha to Central Serengeti (6 hrs)
We were quite lucky to see the king of Tanzania (lion) up close! The sunset that day were stunning too. The camp experience were wild. There were african buffalos around the compound so we were not allowed to exit the tent without an escort.
Day 2 – Pure Migration Camp
It was one of the day we were anticipating for because we wanted to witness the great wildebeest crossing over the Mara River to Kenya! Unfortunately this does not happen every day hence seeing them crossing the river is totally by pure luck! Although we did not see them crossing the river, we did witness a huge group of them running across our vehicle and that was exhilarating!
Day 3 – Tanzania Bush Camp
Another day, another chance upon seeing wildebeest crossing the river however it did not happen. Did you know? The reason why wildebeest migrate over to Kenya is because their source of food is running low in Tanzania due to the dry weather. Highlight of the day is definitely going on a hot air balloon safari and looking for animals from above!
Day 4 – Drive back to the airport
We were supposed to do safari in Ngorongoro Crater but since our flight were scheduled at 3 pm that day, we had to rush back to the airport which was kinda a bummer. I felt like it was the tour’s agency fault for its bad planning, as they could have advised us to schedule our flight at a later timing. We were told that we could have seen the rhino at Ngorongoro!
Overall, I felt that the first safari trip I did in National Kruger was more relax as compared to Serengeti. If I could re-do the trip, I would definitely plan to stay longer in Tanzania and stay in a private reserve for a few days.
Memories in the making 
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