Friday, 14 December 2018

KL Day 1 - Aquaria KLCC and Petrosains Discovery Centre

We spent a near 2 weeks of road trip, travelling Malaysia.

Our journey began with a 4 hours non-stop drive to Kuala Lumpur. Drive was smooth while the children cooperated by playing, sitting and sleeping throughout in awesome peace and quiet. I prepared fried rice from home to settle lunch in the car. Saved time with easy food.

The daughter had a gymnastic competition in KL, and that was the reason that sparked our road trip. While she was being parked with her friends and coach for a few days without parental involvement, the man and I brought the boys out for some play.


SOMERSET DAMANSARA UPTOWN PETALING JAYA
We booked a 2 bedroom premier at Somerset Damansara Uptown Petaling Jaya, by the Ascott group. Service apartment that has full set of facilities like a hotel, with even a kids' playroom. It may not be extremely strategic if you plan to frequent areas near the heart of KL. It takes about a 20 minute drive to reach KLCC. We had our car parked in the hotel and travel around with Grab car. The location is surrounded by many good eats. KL's famous Village Park Nasi Lemak is just diagonally opposite the hotel. And it really is good! Black Hokkien Mee and chicken wings directly opposite the hotel, Restoran Tiong are worth the calories too.


Somerset Damansara Uptown Petaling Jaya

Village Park Nasi Lemak


Somerset Damansara Uptown Petaling Jaya
Location:
2A, Jalan SS21/37 ,Damansara Utama,
47400 Petaling Jaya, Selangor, Malaysia

Village Park Nasi Lemak
Location:
Village Park Restaurant,
5, Jalan SS 21/37, Damansara Utama,
47400 Petaling Jaya, Selangor, Malaysia
Opening hours
7am to 7.30pm (Monday to Saturday)
7am to 6pm (Sun and PH)

Restoran Tiong
Location:
Ground Floor, 101, Jalan SS 21/37, Damansara Utama, 
47300 Petaling Jaya, Selangor, Malaysia
Opening hours:
5pm till late



THE STARLING SHOPPING MALL
An eco-lifestyle mall opened in November 2016. Our apartment is linked to the Starling shopping mall. If you ever visit, you do have to check out this bookstore on level 3, BookXcess. It carries books much cheaper than our local tores. We had a big haul of books from there! Do bring your own bags, as they do not provide plastic/paper bags. You may purchase a bag I think. Many good eats in the mall too. We stepped into an eatery that serves fish soup noodles without much expectation, but to fill hungry tummies. It turned out to be so yummilicious, not because we were overly hungry, but it was really rich and tasty. Located right at a corner of the mall's basement, it definitely is worth a try.  




The Starling Mall
Location: 
6, Jalan ss21/37, Damansara Uptown,
47400 Petaling Jaya, Selangor Malaysia. 



AQUARIA KLCC
Located in the concourse level of the Kuala Lumpur Convention Centre, this aquarium is home to over 150 species of marine life. Laid over 2 levels, to take visitors through different watery landscapes, from the highlands and flooded jungles of Malaysia, to the Amazon basin, coral reefs and the open ocean. Some species were first time view to our eyes. Interestingly cute and unique.

The place did remind me largely of the underwater world we had at Sentosa, when we travelled through a 90m walk-through tunnel with a moving travelator. Surrounded by sand tiger, sharks, huge stingrays and more. Lucky enough for us to get some greeting waves from feeding divers. 

Apart from the marine, there was a section parted for the land, Jewels of the Jungle. It is home to a variety of reptiles, amphibians, tarantula and many others. Check out too, exhibits showcasing the life cycle of frogs and butterflies. I find these sections extremely informative, with great educational exposure. Seeing is learning and believing.   

This Aquaria seems of be of similar scale to our SEA aquarium in Sentosa. If we had done aquarium in the recent months in Singapore, we would have skipped this. The boys were very keen to do the aquarium so we went. And it was really exciting that we caught some feeding sessions and touched some baby sharks just before exiting the Aquaria. 

We spent a near 2 hours in there before we headed off to lunch.


Deep Forest Tank

Spotted Garden Eel

Freshwater journey

Tunnel walk

Below 2 -Free. MyKad holders are Malaysian citizens

Aquaria KLCC
Lot No. 241, level , Suria KLCC,
Kuala Lumpur City Centre
Opening hours
10am to 10pm (7 days a week)



PETROSAINS DISCOVERY CENTRE
Just a 10 minutes walk from the Aquaria, we headed to Petrosains Discovery Centre after lunch. Housed in the Twin Towers, occupying level 4 and 5, this Science discovery centre is educational and highly interactive for both children and yes, adults too! Almost everything in there is for any curious child to discover and touch. The exhibits are very inviting and welcome hands on approach to stimulate interest in general science and technology, as well as the energy industry.

Juboy who is barely 3 enjoyed his time in there too! We excitedly began our journey with a ride on their iconic dark ride. Shaped like an oil drop, the ride brought us through a dark and tranquil 'rain forests', 'mountains' and 'underwater' sceneries. Dark days do not last. We landed into the land of exhibits on space, Geotime Diorama, Oil platform, speed, Molecule Nano World and 3D theatre.     

There were a massive amount of exhibits for discovery. One will not get bored in there.  

SPACE
Find out about the latest space science and technology. How astronauts live and work in space through videos and exhibits. We even stepped into 'Jupiter' for a simulation of hurricane.  

Jupiter Hurricane

Astronauts sleep this manner

GEOTIME DIORAMA
Took us more than 200 million years back to the time of dinosaurs and other creatures of ancient world. We explored the history of our planet Earth as recorded in rocks. It definitely exited the boys most, being surrounded by almost real looking dinosaurs.

Back to dinosaur days

SPARKZ
The place where my boys spent quite some time on, with the diggers and grain pit. They had so much fun scooping and digging. Science shows were conducted in here too, but language used was Malay. Didn't understand of course, we went around for play. And the there is a small little area for toddlers nearby too!

Digger and the grain pit
Experiencing earthquake

Toddlers area

OIL PLATFORM
Everything here is built to scale, an actual offshore platform with real tools. It is really huge! Have a go with the escape chute ad pretend you are exiting a platform on fire. Experience too, their simulator ride that can take you on a thrilling virtual journey. There were the learning of force and pulleys, which introduces physics in a fun way.

Offshore tool

SPEED
Learn all about speed in here! Built for the ardent Formula 1 fan. Test your reaction time and try this crazy mind ball exhibit where you push a small rubber ball towards your opponent using nothing but using the most relaxed mind. Not as easy as you think!

Keeping relaxed

MOLUCULE NANO WORLD
Take a new level to the top of their stairway to explore the world of chemistry. By this level, we were very much overloaded with new knowledge and getting a little weary at this final lap of discovery. We brisked through it.



 
3D THEATRE   
We watched a short film of dinosaurs on a prehistoric land in The Lost World. I somehow think the video quality could be better for a more comfortable watch. And this was where I unknowingly drifted into a short nap. Oops!


Running in for a 3D show

That ended our near 4 hours play in there. We exited the exhibits back to the entrance with the same dark ride, through a different visual presentation though.

I highly recommend this place for school going kids. So much fun that the older son is asking to go back again. And the entrance fees are not at all high. Considering the scale fun. Kids below 3 enter free. 3 to 12 years old fee at RM16.50 (approx $5.50) and adults 13 to 60 years old at RM28 ($9.30). Senior citizen rate applies, do bring identification if your elder parents are coming along for play!

Petrosains closes much earlier than the Aquria, so you may want to visit the other way round if you are running out of time. There are additional activities and workshops within these venues that require additional fees. 

We had lunch just around the entrance of Petrosains Discovery Centre, little penang kafe is good to its last mouth. And prices, oh so good just talking about its setting and quality. Madam Kwan's a few shops away, a good alternative too. It is amazing how we can find good restaurant food in the mall of KL. Not the mediocre food we had expected usually, but gastronomically satisfying. Do anticipate long lines at these dining options during lunch hours.

When in doubt, just follow the lines for good food.


Little penang kafe

Location
Petrosains, The Discovery Centre
PETRONAS Twin Towers
Level 4, Suria KLCC
50088 Kuala Lumpur

Opening Hours
CLOSED on Mondays (Except on Public and School Holidays)
Tuesday to Friday
9:30am to 5:30pm (Last Admission at 4:00pm)
Saturday, Sunday and Public Holiday
9:30am to 6:30pm (Last Admission at 5:00pm)
  

Thursday, 22 November 2018

New hair growth - Bee Choo Ladies [GIVEAWAY]

Postnatal hair loss is totally normal, especially within the third to sixth month. The positive news is that, hair growth cycle usually returns after the sixth.

Aging together with 3 child births, my 'badge or honour' isn't as luxurious as before. The lack of sleep and unbalanced diet (Mums always give up good food to kids) definitely did not alleviate the loss. When the opportunity of invite came to try out 2 sessions with Bee Choo Ladies, herbal hair treatment provider, I hopped on it.




Bee Choo is designed to:
  1. Promote new hair growth 
  2. Control oily scalp 
  3. Control itchy scalp 
  4. Control dandruff issues 
  5. Cover white hair with natural herbal dye
Bee Choo is established in 2000 to sustain healthy and youthful hair, by providing authentic and natural hair care treatment from herbal extracts and plant oils. It delivers a healthier and safer choice for women's hair, free from harsh chemical and synthetic ingredients while simultaneously giving close attention to women's privacy. Their outlet at Pahang Street is the only outlet for women. The men don't get it at all. A comfortable environment, isn't it?!


Through traditional herbal hair care ingredients with the latest salon technology, they have solved hair woes problems of countless ladies. Their track record in the market is also widely fuelled through word of mouth all these years. Bee Choo has built a loyal customer base of over 500,000, and their philosophy of integrity and sincerity has enabled them to establish a good name through customer recommendations.

Their hair treatment works in 4 simple steps:
Step 1: Apply Hair Tonic on your Scalp
Step 2: Apply Herbal Paste to your Scalp
Step 3: Steam Treatment of your Hair for 45 minutes
Step 4: Rinse Off the Herbal Paste, Scalp Massage and Conditioning of your Hair

During my first session, a scalp scanning assessment was given to determine my scalp condition, as well as the shampoo and tonic type that will be suitable. Minty shampoo is usually good for oily sclap, and that was what I tried it when they washed me off the herbal treatment. Was really refreshing!

My scalp condition
After scalp scanning, I was given a warm shoulder pad while they proceeded to head massage and spread the herbal on my hair. There wasn't any unbearable smell, though the smell of herb did linger on for days even after washes. It also left a warm copper colour tone on my hair after the first session. Felt like I had a natural hair dye on for days. And of course, the best part of experience was really the head massage, sooooo good, but too quick. Heh! 
 
Herbal Paste

So yeap, I was given a set of shampoo and tonic suited to my scalp, for my home follow up treatment. And of course, 2 sessions may not be some good evidence to testify hair growth. But I am sure the tonic will yield some results in time to come. This is a sharing to suggest another option of hair growth service in Singapore. They claim to be the best female hair loss treatment in Singapore! At least, I can be sure that there wasn't any upselling of packages and their prices are much transparent based on hair length. They believe in providing affordable and effective hair care solutions to anyone in need.



Bee Choo Ladies
5 Pahang Street,
Singapore 198606
Tel: +65 6291 5354

Operating Hours:
Mon – Fri:
10.00 AM – 08.00 PM
Sat, Sun & All PH:
10.00 AM – 08.00 PM
Note: Last appointment
and walk-in at 7.00pm

I suggest that an appointment will be better than walk in. It was rather crowded on my second visit, and there was quite a wait for those without appointment.


GIVEAWAY
We have 2 sets of hair growth shampoo and tonic for giveaway to 2 lucky winners. 1 over on our Facebook and 1 on Instagram. This set of shampoo and tonic will be given based on the scalp condition of the winners, so yes, a complimentary scalp scanning at Bee Choo origin ladies' salon can determine the right type for you. To win, simply:

Facebook
1. Like Mum's calling on Facebook
2. Like Bee Choo Origin on Facebook 
3. Tag 3 friends whom you think will love luxurious hair in the comment section of this Facebook post.

Instagram
1. Follow @mumscalling on Instagram
2. Follow @beechooladies on Instagram
3. Tag 3 friends in the comment section (ONE tag per comment)


You may join contest on both Facebook and Instagram to up your chances! 

Giveaway closes on 01 Dec 18, 2359hrs.


Terms and Conditions:
  • Winner will be picked by randomresult.com
  • Winner will be announced on Facebook and this blog post
  • Winner will have 48 hours to respond, failing which a new winner will be drawn
  • All incomplete entries will be disqualified. 
  • All entries will be verified before the winner is announced 
  • To be fair to our sponsors, social media accounts set up purely to take part in contests will be deemed ineligible to win.
  • Giveaway is no way sponsored, endorsed, administered or associated with Facebook or Instagram.

Disclaimer: I was invited to review on Bee Choo Ladies. No monetary compensation was given. All opinions and photos are solely ours, unless otherwise credited. 
 

Tuesday, 30 October 2018

Cafes made totally for Kids in Bangkok


With the holiday season being right around the corner, it is the perfect time to explore the great beyond with your family. If you are looking for the perfect destination to bring your family, then you should totally visit Bangkok, Thailand. This land of delicious tom-yams, papaya salads and best massages has everything you need to keep your whole family occupied, even your young kids. We know how fussy some kids can be when it comes to foreign food, but here we have compiled a list of cafes in Bangkok that your kids will surely love to visit.


No kids or even adults can ever say no to the charms of a sweet, cuddly, soft teddy bear. At the Teddy Castle Café in Bangkok, your kids will be welcomed into a beautifully decorated castle filled to the brim with fluffy teddies. Not only is the castle totally Instagram worthy, the food here takes your taste buds to a whole new level. While you wander away in this beautifully crafted teddy castle, do not forget to try bestselling Strawberry and Seaweed Salad. Your kid will surely be asking for more.


Photo credit: Teddy Castle


The best thing about this café – there is a pool for the water babies which is already a plus point for most parents. Not only that, even for the fussiest eater in your family, this café is just perfect because here, you can design your very own meal. Add as much cheese or bacon to your eggs or have them in any other way exactly to your liking. Aside from the pool, there is also a kid’s playroom for all those kids without a change of clothes for the pool. How perfect is that?


Photo credit: Melange


This café will surely have your little ones and even you falling in love with man's best friend, the cutest dogs of all shapes and sizes. From big, fluffy breeds like Alaskan Malamutes to adorable and cuddly Chow Chows and even the friendliest English Sheepdogs, this cafe is the epitome of happiness at its best. While these soft giants might be the highlights of this café, they do serve pretty tasty pasta too. Do try their seafood Aglio Olio which is one of their best-selling menu.

Photo credit: Big Dog Cafe


Are your kids fans of the Harry Potter franchise or any magical world? Then you should totally bring them here, a magical Harry Potter-esque café. Mocking Tales encourages you to never let the magic in you die out. Entering this café, you fight evil mean dragons with your child while eating the best, delicious desserts they have to offer. The desserts they serve are a treat to behold. Not only do they glow, some even catch fire. Woah.. Your kid will never want to leave this place.


Photo credit: Mocking Tales

 
We have not been to any these cafes, but am locking them here for our next visit to Bangkok! With these cafes that will surely pique our kid’s interest and uninhibit their big imaginations, why not make a trip to Bangkok that will surely be filled with sweet memories? The best thing about this travel – it does not even have to be expensive. You can find cheap tickets on Traveloka, the best online travel platforms for flights from Kuala Lumpur to Bangkok or even from Singapore itself. Do check out yourself before it's too late.




Article presented in partnership with Traveloka