1 year old

 We are a year old now! 

When we just started seeing each other, things were going quite well. However, we are not any different from other couples. We have our fights too. I always thought that seeking attention from you is easy to achieve, but you have your challenges too. This year is not easy, we have our joyous moments and down times too. 

Thank you for always being the generous one when I'm being extremely petty.

I'm glad we have made it and hope we can continue to count more years!

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First V-Day on 140226!

(Mobile version cannot view the video, can only watch on Desktop)

I didn’t want to get too excited because I’m not very good at dealing with disappointment. But on the actual day, I was indeed excited for what was ahead! 

The first item I received was a Dyson hair dryer. This gift was special because it also came with a hair-drying service! Haha! 

It has been a long time since I last had afternoon tea. What made the day even more special was the companion. Unfortunately, this companion is allergic to dairy, so in fact almost all the sweets on the menu were not suitable for him. Haha! I really appreciated the exception though, because I was the one mainly enjoying them. YUM! 

After afternoon tea, we still had plenty of time before our dinner appointment. I suggested going to the nearest mall — a big one — Suntec City! We did some window shopping and there was lots of walking involved, until I eventually had to take a break at KOI. Haha! Then we walked again… until it was almost time for our dinner appointment. 

 According to his experience, omakase over the counter is usually quite lively, with conversations among the diners and the chef behind the counter. But the restaurant we went to was extremely quiet, with a total of only six diners including ourselves. I had to whisper because it was so quiet that I felt obligated to keep my voice down. The other two couples seemed to feel the same way because they were speaking very softly too. Despite that, it didn’t dampen my mood at all because I still really enjoyed the food! It was very expensive, so I paid extra attention and took more time to savour the flavours. Slurp! 

I'm really happy that we’re celebrating our first V-Day together. It means a lot to me that you listened when I was sharing my thoughts. Thank you so much, love you! 

[Ya… I forget to take picture of ourselves. -.-]

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Here is my full solo trip!

(Video cannot be viewed on mobile, can watch via this link here)

I just realised I didn't post the full video of my solo trip! 

Here it is, I guess it pretty summarise my trip taking place from 18 to 27 May!

(I took 5 flights in total sobs.)

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2nd day release of My Dearest Fubao!

It’s the 2nd day of release and I went to “visit” Fubao in the movie theatre! I just lied my way through so that my closed ones won’t say I’m obssessed (even though I could be), I catch the 9.25pm slot and I thought I could be the only one watching, unfortunately it started to have more bookings at late afternoon onwards. At least one comforting point is that no one was seated at e same row as me (I’m the only one who seated the closest to the screen) and they were no occupants at the row behind me. So I have more privacy! Hahaha! I think today’s audience group like got a couple who is about close to 50. Like older age group as yesterday,

This time I kept reminding myself to watch the live characters since I already know roughly what were they talking about. As usual, Fubao is so cute!!! I try to remember as much as possible, in my previous post, I didn’t mentioned about the interaction between Fubao & Kang grandpa when the panda centre agreed to let Kang grandpa to bid his goodbye to her. Even though the scrub suit was of different colour as what they used in Korea, but you can tell from Fubao’s reaction that she recognised his voice and still let him pat her. That was truly sad. Cause Kang grandpa must have known that it’s going to be his last time to be able to stay so close to her and to pat her. This was one part that I don’t recalled I have watched them online, so it’s exclusive in the movie!

Another part which I don’t think it’s online was when Song grandpa was hi-5ing with Huibao’s back paw with one of his feet (he got his sock only)! Haha! That was quite funny! There was a short interview with Ohbao about the preparation of the over-surging crowd after Fubao’s departure date was confirmed. She was so confident that the crowd-to-be was what they have anticipated and prepared for, having the spirit of “bring-in-on!” But after seeing the crowd, she commented that the visitors who came were more prepared than them, she kind of taken aback. Haha! She is a very cheerful person, seeing her made me feel so calm… 

Also! During quarantine in Korea, Songbao was seen in his scrub suit sitting down and playing with Fubao by fidgeting with her paws! So cuteeeeeee…… 

I didn’t shed tears as much as yesterday, but I still find it awesome to watch again! Not regretting of watching it again, at first before I booked the ticket, a little worried that I may get sick of watching it again. I’m glad I made the choice of doing so!!!!! 

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Patiently waiting for Fubao's re-appearance!

It has been close to 3 months since Fubao returned to China, can't wait for her appearance again! This humane panda really helped me to pour out negative emotions and allowed me to cry for a worthy reason... 

Because of her popularity between Korea & China, there are many people paying attention to her through the social medias. Initially it was a whole loads of positive feedback and comments, and after which, negative words started to pour in too. (there is a balance between good and bad, I guess it is not ruled out in this case too) Please don't point negative anger or energy at Fubao, she doesn't know anything about the human world so leave whatever entities from our world in our world. You do not have to know or learn how to like animals, it's personal preference. You are not being forced to like them, so don't go around trying to "force" people not to like them.  

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Warm & melted Christmas '23

Trumpeters: Huiping, me, Geng Qin & Nikee (Xin Yi)
Kenneth, are  you spying us? hahaha! Our big boss!

Thank you SNCO for being a positive distraction to me for this month! Truly comforting!

I very glad and fortunate to have Nikee, someone who can guide me! Our strongest woman! Don't understand how mighty she can be with trumpet! 

It is amazing and wonderful to have each & everyone's accompanionment during the practices and the performance days!

Lastly, a random Christmas piece I have recorded during the waiting time. Since it's Christmas Eve, of course, we should amplified the spirit and atmosphere in the broke down air-conditioner room. Merry Christmas :)

 

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Croatia & Venice!! (280423 - 120523)

 

 Day 1 – Dubrovnik (Arrival) Arriving in Dubrovnik Airport 

Airport pick up and complimentary transfer to the hotel 

Free evening and overnight stay in Dubrovnik 

Foteza Apartments, Od Šorte 5, Old Town, Dubrovnik, 20000, Croatia

Our connecting flight from Munich to Dubrovnik was changed, instead of leaving from Munich at 9am+, we were leaving at 2pm+. We went to Freising via bus 635, it was quite a short ride! Since we touched down Munich close to 6am, we were super early when we reached Freising, all the shops weren't even opened. We walked around and found this bakery with seats outside, we settled down and looked at all the passerby. I have to admit that I was impressed by the green movement they are practicing, like 95% of them carried baskets for their groceries! They cycled alot too, I was envious of those who can get off their bike in a very stylo way which I guess your balance must be there. We have noticed except for Peizhi, as usual, when Peizhi wants to observe, none of the cyclists was doing the stylo way! HAHAHAHA!

We sat there super long, hahaha! Until it was lunch time, we went to Weißbräu Huber. Ordered sausages, Pork Schnitzel, braised looking pork & pork intestine soup! And off we go! Back to Munich airport to catch our plane! 

We landed in Dubrovnik, collected our luggage and were out of the gate, we were still thinking how do we identify the tour representative... And guess what, the person who picked us up was the most advanced as he used his iPad instead of printout/signages... The best part has yet to come, he dressed so smartly and he said he's going to drive his van 007 over. At first, I thought he was joking, I was still making fun that we were picked up by special agent like in the movie. The next moment, he drove in with his vehicle no.007! WOOO! Impressed~!

He drove us to the Dubrovnik's old town, to our apartment. Old town doesnt allowed private car to enter within the old town, so we were dropped off at the main entrance and we have to continue by foot. And so, the horror of flights began....

Stairs.. stairs… and MORE STAIRS!!! 

We reached our first apartment, after the horrific flights of stairs, and our jaw dropped after we opened the main gate… there was another narrow stairs to the rooms!! Sobs. And the best part is the apartment staff gave us faulty key, we couldn’t unlock the second door… I have to walk back to the office to change the keys, I wasn’t happy that I have to walk back and fro!!! Fortunately Peizhi was with me, if not I bet I ended up lost when finding the office! Since the next group of travellers were not arriving so soon, the staff is able to follow us to try the keys. GOOD!

The place was… not so much in compensating the fact we have to climb the countless of stairs.. cause the main problem was we do not have air conditioners in the bedrooms! The staff told me the heater is convertible between heating & air conditioning… (of course, not true) and the fan they have was not working tooooo! The weird part in this situation was there are 2 air conditioners in the attic (also served as kitchen cum living room). We had no choice to have both of it switched on so the cool air can flow to our bedrooms on the level below. Poor Miss Song has to sleep on the sofa in the attic as she has to stay near to the air conditioner. (She was blasted by the aircon, suffered from leg cramps in the middle of the night hahaha)

Anyway, we had dinner at Gradska kavana Arsenal Restaurant. The restaurant is HUGE! Downside is too huge, and we have no idea where to head to for a table since we see no staff at the entrance. One of the serving staff came out from the counter bar but was kind of harsh to us when we asked for “enlightenment”. Very enlightened by his one word answer, “DOWN!” LOL.. 

At least we were able to get a table indoor.. outdoor reservation were fully booked, which we understood as of why when we were physically there. They have a very nice scenery!!!!!! Even though we sat indoor, we were allowed to walk out to take a picture! The food was good! (Of course, I have already forgotten what we ordered)

The night view of Dubrovnik is really so prettyyyyyyy!

Day 2 – Dubrovnik City Tour, panorama of Dubrovnik Tour of Dubrovnik's old town and city walls Experience the charm and cultural heritage of Dubrovnik The tour continues with the panoramic drive making a slight detour to the Srđ hilltop 

Free afternoon to enjoy and explore the charms of Dubrovnik, overnight in Dubrovnik 

Next day was super happening!! The Main Street was holding a marathon, we happened to be in the middle of it after breakfast! (Accordingly to our local guide, it’s a yearly affair at the same venue) Thankfully it didn’t affect us much, only our local guide & driver had problem coming in due to the road block. 

We had our first guide walking through with us in the old town (Pearl of the Adriatic)! Dubrovnik is a city in southern Dalmatia, Croatia, by the Adriatic Sea. The history of the city probably dates back to the 7th century. The entire city was almost destroyed when a devastating earthquake hit in 1667. The city is a UNESCO world heritage site (my very first UNESCO site visit) I didn’t know there was so much history about Croatia, the people back then has always wanted to be independent and worked so hard to gain back their independence! They built their country based on labour work (country paid those who worked) and not using slavery. Which I’m very impressed with! Considering how authoritarian it was in the past and hierarchy conformity, people has no right especially in lower social status. 

My motivator of getting better at photography!

Conquering the wall while Peizhi chill somewhere~

This time, our 007 agent has changed to Marin hahaha! At first I thought he was one of our local guides (as usual, I wasn’t paying attention to our itinerary)! He brought us up, get to see the view of the old town from bird eye view~~ wow! We were really fortunate to have really fine & sunny weather, otherwise we won’t get to see the awesome view! (Recalling the bad experience at Mount Wellington in Australia)

He initially wanted to bring us to this restaurant for lunch, who knows it was really packed and crowded. We noticed people were dressing very smart and formal, there were some baptism ceremony going on. Ended up we made an escape before the crowd slowed us down, settled into Orsan Yacht Club! Another therapeutic view! We were sent back to Old Town after lunch, it’s an adventure for the 3 of us (without Peizhi, she went to enjoy more ice cream hopping) to explore the City Wall! We completed the walk! Hahaha! And the funny part was along our walk, we can locate our accommodation! Hahaha! One of our neighbours happened to be outside, we waved at him and he responded too! 

We rendezvous with Peizhi after our walk, we went to Taj Mahal early and got a table! The food was so goood!! Hahaha!

Day 3 – Montenegro day trip from Dubrovnik Morning departure to Montenegro Panoramic ride along the picturesque Bay of Kotor 

Visiting the seaside village of Perast, St. Lady of the rocks 

Tour of Kotor's old town and city walls with the local guide 

Day 3! We brought our passports to make custom entry to Montenegro!!!!!!! It was 3hrs ride = nap like no tomorrow! I seriously slept so much better on moving transportation on LAND. Once we crossed the border of Montenegro, we were supposed to continue a little further to the Bay of Kotor (that’s where we met our local guide). And we need to take a boat to seaside village of Perast, St. Lady of the rocks. There’s a Catholic Church and a small museum which you can find all sort of oldies stuff which you may never make out of it. You will find a famous votive tapestry embroidered by Jacinta Kunić-Mijović from Perast. She was doing it while waiting for her loved ones to return, she used her own hair in it beside golden and silver fibres! It is really a small island, and we were glad we arrived there early! (When we about to return, we saw big group of people coming in) We didn’t spend much time on the island since it’s a small area! 

Did you spot the tiny church? 

Quite a small church, but interesting to have it on a small island!

The towers which survived the earthquake!

Felicia not paying attention~

After which, it’s another tour to Kotor's old town and city walls! We had the walkthrough with our guide in the old town, Kotor's old town is another UNESCO world heritage site, wooo! St. Tryphon’s Cathedral is originally from 1166, and then they rebuilt twice due to earthquakes in 1667 and 1979. They never refinished the second tower after the 1667 earthquake, because they ran out of money, and it stands 6.5ft shorter than the right bell tower. There are so many things to know within the old town! We didnt do the city wall, kind of sad. It looked really steep, but you have the old empire fortress wall feel by looking from afar, bringing you back to time! 

The lunch we had in the old town was terrible... only the pizza is good! Oh well...

We drove back to Dubrovnik, our last night in Dubrovnik. We had another round of good food, this time it was at Konoba Moby Dick! *Drools, we ordered more seafood and they even took out a tray of different variety of fresh fish for us to choose. Hee! Doris suggested we should walk one round, along the outline of the town since it was our last night. And yes, we definitely appreciated that night more! After we returned to our apartment, Felicia tried the funky mask bought from Freising, I decided to use mine too. The mask I bought supposed to be glowing in the dark, after I put on the mask and switched off the lights, Peizhi couldnt even see my face. All she could see was my silhouette -.-. Thankfully it's cheap, but I still felt cheated. LOL.

Day 4 – Dubrovnik to Split with stop in Ston, Oysters farms, Mostar city Wine tasting at Vinarija Milos (changed location)

Visiting Ston town, free time for coffee Panoramic boat cruise to the oyster farms, with cooked mussels (optional) 

The tour continues with the panoramic drive making a detour to Mostar town 

Free evening and overnight stay in Split 

Stylish Theatre Apartments, Krusevica Gumno 25, Split, 21000, Croatia 

Another day~ We are travelling to Split! Along our way to Split, we went on a boat to an Oyster farm, but the weather wasnt so good. It was drizzling and later on get heavier when we got on the boat. I was kind of concern that we may not be able to enjoy our lunch, since we going to have it onboard! Thankfully, the rain went back to slight drizzle, seafood get better with improved weather! WOOOO! The fresh oysters were sooooooo fresh & tasty with just lemon! And the cooked mussels they cooked on boat were yummyyyyyyyyyyyyyyy!!! OMG! We got to enjoy them all thanks to Peizhi! She didnt get to eat though... (It's really so worth till we just split the bill among the 3 of us, Peizhi's portion went to Marin hahaha) The captain served us his homemade wine, it was very strong but sweet! hahaha! He didnt got us champagne tooooooo!! Indulging ourselves like never before hahaha~! We made a joke out of ourselves, we stepped out of the boat after the lunch without paying our captain! SO EMBARRASSING! We burst out into laughters!! Oops.

And that, we moved on to wine tasting at Vinarija Milos (we were supposed to visit Mostar city, but Marin got tips off a day before that the waiting into the border was bad)! I thought it was the normal kind of wine tasting I joined in Australia, sit around and do the wine tasting. This was different, the staff showed us their business history and their production area too! I was kind of impressed, seeing the wine barrel and some even as huge as me! There was one which was super old! (I can't recall if the staff mentioned about the old barrel was in WWII?) They have the barrels underground, you can see the raw exterior of the underground. They have a new site of production, you can see the change from olden days to being very modern. We got ourselves wine tasting with snacks which came with bread & cheese! The staff who introduced their wine was quite funny, can’t remember who asked him about his favourite type of wine and he went with rose wine because it’s more gentle for stomach unlike red wine.. isn’t it an excuse for him to drink more!!! Hahahaha! It was a nice experience! Even though I went for wine tasting before (same thing) but definitely different experiences!

Doris is not forgetting to take a picture at our next stop!

Up next! We went to Ston with drunk Felicia, her face was really red! She wanted to walk the city wall at the Ston, am glad I decided to follow her! Not because it can be dangerous for her to do the hike alone, but we didn’t get to do the hike at Kotor’s old town. Thankfully, Felicia asked the counter staff for some recommendations and it was great that they have a shorter route and we do not have to hike very far! We had sufficient time to even visited the washroom! Felicia can also use the hike to “wash off” her drunken self hahaha!

The drunk getting herself sober from the hike!

We carried on our journey to Split! We have been in very relaxing and less people area for the past few days, and going to a more city-like place, Split gave us an immediate change of feeling! City! We see more cars and finally seeing buses, of course, traffic lights! Hahaha! Our road trip has been super smooth, I mean no stopping or even slowing down. And that’s where we got to meet our 2nd apartment owner! He’s really nice! He offered to carry up 2 of our luggage, his apartment was at level 3. Was really glad he could help us with our luggage!! Thank you sir! We did the paperwork in the apartment, he’s really patient and even went through where to go and recommended food, he was so well prepared that he even got a map of the area! Hahaha! Again, Peizhi has volunteered to sleep on the sofa!! I have to confess that the apartment does have a pair of very huge sofas… but then… sigh, I think she wanted us to sleep more comfortably as one of the rooms only have double bed. Alright, so after we have settled in, we went to the recommended restaurant, Konoba Varos for dinner! It was a really quiet restaurant we thought at first, it got more crowded when the time was getting later. But the food is good!! Although the waiting time was longer and our energy level was low too, I remember the place’s reception was bad. Hahaha!

After dinner we went to our favourite place every time we stopped at a different city, convenient store! Croatia’s water is very clean but rich in minerals. (It got even more serious in Rovinj) Taste is fine, I usually waited for the mineral to subside before I drink. But since we already at the store, I got myself a big bottle too!

Day 5 – Split City Tour and the area of Split Tour of Split, 1700 years old Diocletian palace with the local guide 

Free evening and overnight in Split 

It’s our local tour again!!! This morning not feeling myself, I was dead sleepy. I hope the guide doesn’t noticed my eyelids’ movements! (It’s droopy low) Our guide was sharing with us that Croatia people are really nice, it’s like how her mum behaves towards strangers in a very friendly and caring way! Melted! Visited cathedral of saint Dominus, Grad, Stari Pazar & Diocletian's Palace before we moved on to the city in Trogir. 

This building is the best preserved Roman palace, built by Emperor Diocletian in year 305AD. in a rectangular form. During the centuries, the town of Split emerged from a Roman palace, which can be seen very well today in the mixture of different architectural styles within the palace. On 17.of October 1979. Diocletian's Palace was enlisted by the "UNESCO" as a living cultural and historical heritage site. 

It was a drizzling day! Thankfully it wasn’t very heavy, we managed to get out of the place without being drenched! Next, the guide brought us to the Roman ruins of Salona! 

Salona is the largest archaeological park in Croatia and grew to over 60,000 inhabitants. It was the birthplace of Roman Emperor Diocletian. In the first millennium BC, the Greeks set up a marketplace. Salona had also been in the territory of the Illyrian Delmatae, before the conquest of the Romans.

Such a nice place to take pictures! We lingered around to take pictures, and before I knew it, Felicia already went off to explore and appeared at the other side! We were then returned to Split, it was our last night! We went to Fabrique Pub (strongly recommended by our guide & Marin) for dinner, one of the staff was just pure unfriendly or could be wearing spectacle without lens. Or, maybe just not very fond of “us”. But thankfully we managed to get assistance from another staff, if not we could really miss the good food! And we ordered really a lot hahaha, have to take away~ hahaha! (It become Peizhi & my breakfast the following day)

Day 6 – Split to Island of Pag to Plitvice Lakes National park 

Leaving Split making the detour to the Island of Pag Famous for its long tradition of the production of cheese, salt ad lace 

Visit the old town Pag, Pag Cheese factory where you will try the famous Pag Cheese 

Free evening and overnight in Plitvice Lakes 

Apartments Marija, Rakovica 48, Rakovica, 47245, Croatia

Wooohoo! Before we knew it, we were already half way through our trip! And we conquered another flight of stairs, cause we were moving accommodation again… (super argh) The weather is truly good! On the move to… GLIGORA CHEESE FACTORY! It’s located at the Pag island. Along the way, we actually saw this beautiful scenery and I guess we were early as Marin offered that we could stop at the side for us to take pictures. We had not stopped at the side for pictures taking since day 1, kind of looking forward to do so. We were pampered for the past few days, wasn’t aware of the danger luring outside of our van.. The moment I stepped out of the van, it was SO WINDY!! It felt as if someone pulled my hairs as I came out of the van! The wind was so strong that I couldn’t even stand still, everyone’s hairs were flying around. Quite happy that I wore my jacket, I hid my hair in my hood! Spare me the agony of unglam pictures hahaha! 

We reached quite early, walked around and even had a cup of drinks haha! The factory they owned is a family business! Pag cheese is a limited product, made exclusively of sheep milk from the island of Pag. The production is limited due to the total number of Pag sheep that can freely graze on the island pastures. As Pag is also famous for "white gold" = salt, it also affects the sheep milk production in a way. Which also make their cheese so special too! So we were allowed to visit their production room!!!! Of course, we have to suit up before entering! kind of sad that the production was not in operation, so we couldn't actually witness it. sigh. BUT! They showed us where they stored their cheese! Wow! They really have all sort of cheese! I think we really very obedient, no one took our phones to take pictures. I thought I missed out listening to their instructions, but when I looked at their instagram, EVERYONE TOOK PICTURES & EVEN VIDEOS! sigh x2. As our cheese tour ends, Peizhi suggested to take a picture together!! Yes! I want! I never suit up for such an event (Peizhi was even more excited than I am), too engrossed in capturing the moment, I didnt realised I looked ugly with the hair mask, as if I wearing a helmet. And I still pestered to help me take a solo picture. -.-  Yes, realised the ugly photo after so much later, sigh x3. 

After the cheese tour, we had ordered ourselves with cheese platter! I thought we were able to finish them but it was so filling! hahaha!! But it was really good experience to be able to taste so many different flavours, different degree of aged cheese and living the culture of tasting the cheese with wine hahaha! Up next, we were drove to the island of Pag where we can visit the salt & lace museum. But sadly, the lace museum was closed and we wandered off to find the salt museum... The place was so open with little shelter, was not helping with the scorching sun, it was truly hot and I had to use my hood!!! When we were strolling, Peizhi and Doris was asking us to hurry up, it seemed that the salt museum was closed too! But the staff of the museum happened to be around and saw them loitering outside, they offered to reopen it just for US! HAHAHA! And they were sooooo kind, the staff even asked us how long we are staying and given us discount for the admission fee! It was nice to look back at how they used to "harvest" salt, the equipments they used to use too! They even have a documentary to share the story behind the salt production, unfortunately we couldnt watched it all due to time constraint. Of course, we couldnt leave without getting something! hahahaha! Peizhi bought salt, from the very original salt museum while I, stole a few pinch of salts from the "play" area whereby they have a small plate of salt for visitors to play, just like a sandbox, but it contained salt instead. Although we couldnt visit the lace museum, at least we stopped by salt museum!

Guess who is this?

VERY HOT WEATHER!

We left the place to our next accommodation near Plitvice Lakes! Long ride again! = nap time!

Fortunately our tour includes transportation to our accommodation, apparently the address given was exactly the right address. Marin called the owner for us and drove us further before we reached the place! Which means whatever we googled about the dining place near the accommodation are quite useless… thankfully, we arrived the place before sunset, we walked to the nearest dining place we could find and there’s convenient store close by too!!!! It was a nice & comfortable walk, so quiet and you have very little cars driving passed, not much people too. (I broke the silence, I tuned myself with music) 

While we were out, Felicia was the only one decided to stay behind. I think the owner was quite concern about us when we told them we need the air conditioner, they came knocking on our door after noticing one of the heaters was switched on. Hahaha! Felicia managed to access YouTube via the smart TV, she was watching some J-Pop MVs, and that’s how we started (maybe how I started). We searched really old MVs, mostly from 2PM, I just did funny imitation from the MVs. From Doris went to bathe till she’s done bathing, I was still seen jumping! Good thing I haven’t bathed yet, but no sweat ok~ Oh! The bedrooms are very decent, one of it was very spacious with baby cot! Toilet was spacious too! But one thing is missing, HAIRDRYER!!! I’m glad we still have Felicia with us, she brought along her hairdryer & portable kettle! If not my hair going to be wet until the next day.

Day 7 – Plitvice Lakes National park tour, Kuterevo Bear Refuge 

Tour of Plitvice Lakes National Park with the local guide Upper lakes, lower lakes district, boat ride inside the park 

Next, Kuterevo Bear Refuge visit and lunch in a typical Croatian restaurant 

Transfer to Rovinj, free evening and overnight stay in Rovinj 

Private Courtyard Medieval Stone Home in Old Town, 8 Ulica Bregovita, Rovinj, 52210, Croatia

Only a night stay at Plitvice Lakes, but the owner & her family were really nice! They really made sure we were comfortable, since we arrived, they helped us with all of our luggage and despite the limited English, they had been very friendly and engaging with us!! Even when I was shocked to find many beetles the next morning, the owner's husband assured us that they were not harmful and they do not fly in the day haha! We spoke quite awhile before he apologized he has to excuse himself to send his children to school, just nice we were ready to go!

We were up for our next local tour, Mirjana who was our guide to the Plitvice Lakes. According to Marin, Mirjana is a very friendly person who we could try using "Sranje" on her hahaha!! Of course, we didnt use it immediately upon our first meetup! She was telling us that it has been raining for the past few days doing tours with other groups, and the day she was with us, it was the first sunshine she had! She thought we brought her sunshine, but I thought she's the one who brought us rainbow! Cause we saw 2 rainbows over 2 lakes! SO PRETTY!!!! I loveeeeeee rainbow!! What makes this national park special? It is one of the oldest and largest national parks in Croatia. There are 16 lakes which are separated into an upper and lower cluster, they formed by runoff from the mountains.

When we passed by one of the bigger waterfall, it's like drizzling! HAHAHA! Truly cold! We have to walk through pathway that it was so close to the lakes, some places were a little flooded and imagine if the weather was gloomy, we were be walking more flooded area... 

Mirjana has been really nice and has a very good heart, she talked about pollution and the negative impact on the COVID injections. Felt good to have her giving us the private tour! Poor lady has low battery, she kept reminding me to share the pictures with her via Instagram! hahaha! When we bid her goodbye, Marin has hinted us to use "Sranje" on her, she pouted at me! Kana sabo! 

In the morning, we were still joking we going on a bear hunt, imagining the umbrellas in the van were the rifles! LOL! Cause after the tour in the Plitvice Lakes, we were going to the Kuterevo Bear Refuge. We encountered a group of weirdos, which include a person dressed like a shaman. However, we didnt noticed about the weirdness since Marin was friendly with them. Felicia even greeted him in their language, "Bok!", and the person thought she was saying she came to Croatia by "boat". HAHAHAHA! We moved away from the enclosure because we could only see one bear and decided to try spotting from different area, that was when Marin was telling us he felt uncomfortable conversing with them. One of them kept asking Marin if he liked to see one of the pictures which he took about the animals which were involved in the "ritual" or something like that (told by Peizhi since I wasnt in the conversation, far behind trying to spot bears). Truly amazed by their socialising skill, conversing as if nothing happened! HAHA! 

We were drove to our next stop, Rovinj! Similar to Dubrovnik old town, private car unable to drive into the old town in Rovinj. We truly faced the biggest issue in finding the accommodation, we realised that the flight of stairs were never ending and decided to split, the Dora Explorers and the Keepers (looking after luggage). I was glad that we split, cause even with Felicia, we having difficult time finding our accommodation. Rovinj is so much complicated compared to Dubrovnik. Finally found the owner, she showed us her apartment before we parted and off we fly back to the rest, luckily we somehow remember our way back! Of course, the ordeal not over yet, cause we need to lug our luggage back with the steps… Boooooooo! 

I also not sure why we so enthusiastic in staying the old medieval style, cause it was wooden stairs in the apartment which leads us from basement-ground level-L2-Attic. First thing we did was to look for air-con! Beside ground level, the rest of the level has a bed but only L2 no air con. LOL! What do you do if there’s no air-con? My natural instinct is to look for fan! I’m happy I found TWO!!! But the bigger one is faulty -.- At least one of them is working, I’m overjoyed! Haha! If not it’s going to be kind of stuffy, combining power from the attic’s air con, not bad! Then we quickly chop chop to our dinner’s venue at La Puntulina, cause we were late! Felicia made a reservation and it was an awesome choice! Cause the restaurant faced the sea, you could enjoy the sunset! I couldn’t enjoy the scenery much, I truly beat over finding the accommodation!

I’m very impressed with Felicia, despite staying over for a night, she brought her luggage up to the bedroom at L2, I left everything in the ground level (now I know why Doris said she lost weight during the trip, cause we did a lot of stair walking during these 3 nights stay), I rather walked up & down the stairs!! Hahaha!

Day 8 – Tour of Motovun, Pula 

In the morning we discover the continental part of Istria 

The green oasis with many hills and vineyards, visiting Motovun town 

Truffle hunt with 4-course lunch in a family house included (optional) 

Tour of Pula, the ancient Roman colosseum 

Return to Rovinj, free evening and overnight stay in Rovinj

The next morning, we going to Pula!! But it’s also Felicia’s last day with us! She’s going to take her flight back to Singapore earlier than us due to work. The local guides who have been with us for the past few days (nearer to Felicia’s departure) knew one of us was leaving early! Hahaha! Even till the last day, we were asked and of course, I believe Felicia must be kind of sad to have to return early… But, nothing going to affect her! She still having fun! In the morning, we did a truffle hunt! We were the only group they were hosting, woooooo!! The owner, lady boss was very sociable and she kept complimenting us for giving her the happy and positive energy! I guess she just happy to have guests joining her and of course, patronising her business too!! Haha! Before we get to eat, we have to work first! The owner’s husband brought two of his hunting dogs, one of them still under training and young, can’t remember if she’s already a year old or going to. Marin drove us to the truffle hunting ground which is a distance away from the house, we were just right behind the owner’s van! Owner didn’t even put them on leash, he just had to hollow to get them to fall in haha!!! The truffle hunt was different from what I did in Australia, this round was we were really “hunting” in the wood, uphill and downhill.. really following the dog. When the younger ones just want to play & cheat some treats. But it was quite a fruitful experience, we found 2 truffles, all thanks to the hunting dog! 

On the way back, both dogs MIA again… but we could hear a bark! Not a loud bark, but with hesitation. The next moment we saw this dog appearing infront of us when we were at the bottom of the downhill, for one second, our thoughts were processing before we burst into laughters!!! The younger ones went for a thorough mud bath which he dyed himself from yellowish brown to milk chocolate, we almost couldn’t recognised her! The bark was from the older dog, as if she knew her friend was in trouble! Hahaha! Her whole body was dripping with mud, the owner super despised when she was so close to him begging for treats! HAHAHA!! The moment she was shaking off the mud, we fled! Hahaha! When we returned, the owner used water hose to bathe ALL the dogs! Poor thing.. while they were under the agony of the water hose, it’s our lunch time!!!!! The owner lady already prepared bread, cheese, salad & more as our appetiser! Yum! She has so many flavour of homemade liquor! I chose only one! Even her serving drink is so different too! Nice~ Owner lady very proactive, she said must take pictures together. Apparently she has quite a few followers and very diligently trying to more travellers back after covid, which is very understandable. Couldn’t imagine the loss they suffered especially they are into business, worst is in tourism industry… I hope their business will improve gradually to what it used to be or even better! 

Anyway, the amount of truffle she shaved was quite generous! Hahahaha! Then she also showed us how she cooked scrambled eggs with truffles~ But before that she asked us how many eggs we usually eat, the amount of egg sounded ALOT. But I’m glad that we have a guy with us, if not the food will go to waste! It was great that we were the only group, because we did a video which involves not so nice language hahaha~!

We ended our truffle tour and moved on to tour at Roman colosseum!

Another hot, hot weather!!! I felt as if the sun is burning my skin!! BURNED! 

The Pula Arena (Croatian: Pulska Arena; Italian: Arena di Pola) is a Roman amphitheatre located in Pula, Croatia. It is the only remaining Roman amphitheatre to have four side towers entirely preserved. It was constructed between 27 BC and AD 68,[1] and is among the world's six largest surviving Roman arenas.[1] The arena is also the country's best-preserved ancient monument.

We stopped by at a Mcdonald!! Since the day we landed on foreign land, we were hoping to eat Mcdonald and here we were!!! Mcdonald~ Sadly, they do not have special flavour nuggets I could try. Oh well~ Very soon, we were about to send Felicia off, she's returning back earlier due to work. Aww, didnt feel anything until we arrived at the airport! We were way earlier, the check in counter wasnt even ready, haha! But at least we stayed around until Felicia has settled down and prepared for the check in before we bid goodbye to her! When we returned back to the van, suddenly felt so empty sitting at the back of the van without Felicia. We were drove back to our apartment in Rovinj, first dinner without Felicia. As it is going to be our last day with Marin in two days, we have to prepare "angpao" for him. We bought a postcard to go together with the "angpao" (the idea came from Felicia, Marin was telling us he couldnt find the love letter from Felicia - as claimed by her), the postcard will help to deliver the love message on behalf of Felicia too hahaha! That was when we became curious as of how much Felicia prepared the angpao for Marin, Peizhi whatsapp Felicia, while I was thinking on the message to be written down.. I suddenly heard a huge burst of laughters from Peizhi. I didnt have my phone as it was charging, but definitely had a hunch that it was the tipping from Felicia. The 7 days which Felicia had shared with us and Marin, she prepared the angpao of $15... HAHAHAHA!! We were calculating that the amount wasn't enough for a cup of coffee for each day!! Because it wasnt us, we actually kept teasing Felicia "offline"! (Like the amount is equivalent of Felicia taking a uber to the airport LOL!) We spent so much time laughing!!

It was nice that Doris & Peizhi suggested for me to share bunk with Doris, as the double bed seemed to be made up of two mattress. While Doris was bathing, Peizhi helped me to move the mattress, we didnt expect one of the mattress fell when we separating them! hahaha! Apparently, the owner was smart to use something else to support one of the mattress instead of getting a bed frame! We only managed to remove the bedsheet instead, we made them into two twin bedsheets. At least I don't have to sleep alone at level 2 since Felicia has left early! 

Day 9 – Tour of Rovinj 

Visiting Rovinj, the Romance capital of the Adriatic 

Meet your guide just outside the local farmers' market 

Throughout the tour, they will present Rovinj in an authentic way 

By the end of the tour, know where locals buy their fruits and vegetables, where the best coffee is made, and where to find sublime cakes and gelato which will leave you breathless 

Our first day without Felicia! haha! But our last day with local guide and in Croatia~ So far, all the local guides we have interacted with, based on "maturity", I would say that our last local guide is somewhere near the top few. Even so, she is damn cool, when her shoelaces came off, she just raised her leg up to one of the huge potted plant to tie it. She has the vibe of one of my elegant female doctors and a very nice & kind soul! When we were coming close to the end of the tour, the plan was to find a place to sit and enjoy coffee. Unfortunately, the whole place was filled with people, likely because they have church services. She suggested we can part way, since we unable to find a good spot, and Peizhi passed her the coffee as an appreciation. She was soooo glad, and immediately, she decided we HAVE to find a place to have a cup of coffee! Definitely its so much easier for local to speak with the cafe staff, we managed to squeeze our way through to a small round table. While we ordering coffees, our guide actually was looking around to get something in return for us! She bought chocolates produced locally. In the end we spent like an hour or so talking to her haha! It was truly a nice chatting session with her, I'm happy we get to experience the local's lives. Sitting in the café just drinking coffee and chatting away.

After which we go find somewhere for lunch~ We were free & easy for the rest of the day, except for a dolphin chase!

The boat was truly small, I think it could only sit like 8 people, however, the design of the seats were interesting. It's still comfortable for me, but definitely not suitable for long ride.

It was Doris' first time doing dolphin sightseeing, I felt excited for her haha! The weather was quite sunny, and I was diligently looking out for dolphin despite the glaring sun. The organisers were sharing with us some info about dolphins and how to spot them. I was kind of sad when the waiting time starts to drag, it definitely will be disappointing for Doris. The organisers didnt want to give up either, I bet they were stressed up when we caught zero sightings. And I caught a glimpse of it!!!! WOOOO! I was like pointing and the organiser asked me how close we were to them so they could drive us nearer to the area. Apparently the couple seated infront of us saw too, but just kept quiet. Chey. Anyway, our tour time was extended in the hope of seeing more of them. And at the very last hour, they started to see their trails and them too! Phew! It was a good catch hahaha! 

Day 10 – Rovinj to Venice, Postojna Cave & Pređama Castle on our way 

Leaving Rovinj to Venice Tour of Postojna cave and Pređama castle on our way 

In the beginning, enjoy train ride into the heart of the caves, Few more kilometers from Postojna is Pređama castle, visiting the castle 

Finally, you are going to enjoy a traditional lunch in one of the local restaurants 

Hotel Montecarlo, Calle Specchieri S. Marco, 463 Venezia 

Day 11 – Venice (Italy) Orientational tour of Venice “the floating city” with our local guide 

The whole city is an extraordinary architectural masterpiece 

We will walk to the Piazza San Marco and visit St. Mark’s Basilica Cathedral Teatro la Fenice, Scala del Bovolo, and walk to the famous Rialto Bridge 

Free evening and overnight stay in Venice

We went for a local tour at Burano & Murano next!

We trying to be cheeky ha!

It's raining heavily on our last day!! This is us arriving at the ferry point!

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