Asia – Travels with Ali

~ Monsoon Valley Winery, Hua Hin, Thailand – Dining with a View ~

During our stay in Thailand we headed out to the hills to have lunch at Monsoon Valley Winery. I was surprised that there was a winery here, never having been to one in Thailand before.

There is also an elephant sanctuary situated here and you can take a small minibus out to see them. We had left it too late to book a tour though.

Anthony and I were delightfully surprised by the magnificent scenery that surrounded us.

We were seated outside on the verandah and had a lovely view over the extensive vineyards. It was exceptionally hot though and I was still recovering from a flu virus! There was a fan nearby which I had positioned to blow on me.

Stunning views from our table on the verandah

The menu was full of delicious dishes and when they arrived did not disappoint. Starting with a charcuterie board followed by coconut flakes and dried shrimp in grape leaves and grilled prawns and pineapple fried rice. We enjoyed every mouthwatering morsel.

A multi coloured sculpture of an elephant made from wood

The Monsoon Valley Restaurant

What a wonderful way to wile away an afternoon, good company, great views and gourmet food. I would definitely recommend a visit if you are ever in Hua Hin.

🍇 🍇 🍇 🍇 🍇 🍇 🍇 🍇 🍇 🍇 🍇 🍇 🍇 🍇 🍇

~ February Adventures – Wan Chai’s Historical Gems ~

Back in February we had a few days in Hong Kong. Normally February weather can be quite bleak, getting ready for the Chinese New Year cold snap. We were surprised this time by how mild it was, we even saw blue skies.

I’ll be linking to Monday Windows and The Changing Seasons hosted by Brian and Ju-Lyn.

There was somewhere particular I wanted to see after spotting it on google maps. It wasn’t too far from our hotel so one morning we took a walk there. Just my luck that the day we went it was closed. Anyway I was still able to take a few photos. It was called simply “The Blue House”.

The building was constructed in 1920 and is a four tier tenement block. It was fully renovated around ten years ago and the original tenants were allowed to stay. The Housing Society came up with a plan of HK$100 million to preserve nine Chinese-style buildings in Wan Chai. I’m glad that money is not just being spent on high rise buildings, it’s great to see a glimpse of the past.

**Emas – Wooden Plaques for writing prayer**s

Inside the courtyard of the Blue House – decorated for Chinese New Year

The front of the building is in Stone Nullah Lane.

At the start of the 20th century, shops that processed soybeans were established near Stone Nullah Lane. Because of the unpleasant odour emitted during the processing, this led to protests from residents in the neighbourhood. Eventually, the shops were forced to move to other areas. The nullah, (a water channel made of stone or concrete was located on the street ) which also emitted a foul stench, was culverted in 1959 and relocated underground, where the stream from The Peak still flows today. Although the nullah can no longer be found on the lane, the street name was left unchanged. Source: Stone Nullah Lane.

Disappointed that we couldn’t enter the house that day we wandered down the street to Wan Chai Pak Tai Temple. It was built in 1863 by locals and is dedicated to Pak Tai, a martial deity.

Red framed windows of the temple

**A Door God to protect against evil spirits and intruders**

I didn’t want to intrude on the people worshipping and praying, so no photos from inside.

Street Scenes

As we wandered back to our hotel I took some photos of everyday street scenes.

**As fresh as it gets! – not sure about the joint on the ground**

Fishmongers hard at work

Orange trees in preparation for Chinese New Year

Every time I visit Hong Kong I always see a different tram.

It was good to spot a mural without graffiti for a change

I’ll finish with this photo that I took from the top of the bus. Another side of Hong Kong. I’m wondering is he homeless or selling some wares? He has a few too many items to pack up.

~ Adventures in Hua Hin, Thailand – Khao Sam Roi Yot National Park ~

Continuing with our week in Hua Hin, today we set off for the wetlands in a nearby national park. We had missed out on the abundant lotus flowers blooming but were hoping to see some birdlife.

This national park is surrounded by towering majestic limestone mountains. There is also a kilometre long boardwalk to view the surroundings or you can hire a boatman and his boat, which we did.

The first thing I noticed was the complete silence with maybe the occasional bird call. You are immediately struck by the serenity and peace here.

The birds were there of course, hidden by the long grasses so it was difficult for me to take any decent shots.

It was a hard job for our tiller man to navigate through the reeds. Going slow or fast or stopping completely to untangle the propellor. He did need to get out a few times to push us through!

The photos below are the best of the bunch. It was tricky trying to focus, especially when Mr. Tiller only briefly slowed down.

Gliding through the reedy waters and looking out for the birds was a great way to spend an afternoon. We were on the boat for around 45 minutes and our backsides were getting quite numb.

A pagoda to sit and relax and watch for wildlife

This is a tour well worth taking, reasonably priced and well organised.

After this we stopped at a small place for iced coffee. Although try as I might I find iced coffee too bitter for my liking.

Behind the kiosk there was a large cactus display showing some very quirky and colourful blooms.

A Gallery of Cacti

If you’re ever in Hua Hin, I highly recommend setting aside a day for this amazing outing. It’s a wonderful escape from a day at the beach.

🐎 Kung Hei Fat Choi 2026 – Year of the Fire Horse 🐎

Kung Hei Fat Choi everyone, Happy New Year of the Fire Horse. Although the Chinese New Year Calandar cycle is every 12 years, the year of the Fire Horse is only once every 60 years. After shedding the year of the snake in 2025, 2026 is meant to be an abundant year for all. This is something I am hoping for anyway, after a somewhat stressful 2025.

Having recently been in Hong Kong I took the opportunity of snapping a few shots of some of the decorations I saw.

Hong Kong can always be relied upon for ornate decorations whatever the event.

The lotus blossom is a powerful, auspicious symbol for Chinese New Year representing purity, harmony and abundance.

We stayed in Wanchai on Hong Kong Island and below are photos I took at different times of the day from our window.

Above is a video playing of different images of horses.

In case you are wondering what animal you are I have added a photo of a Chinese New Year Calandar. I am a dog, faithful and loyal. Which one are you?

How did these particular animals get chosen to represent the Chinese Calandar? For your information I looked this up!

According to legend, the 12 Chinese New Year animals were chosen by the Jade Emperor or Buddha to compete in a great race across a river. This was to determine their place in the zodiac. The first 12 animals to finish secured their spots, resulting in the order: Rat, Ox, Tiger, Rabbit, Dragon, Snake, Horse, Sheep, Monkey, Rooster, Dog, and Pig.

1. Rat: Won by hitching a ride on the Ox and jumping ahead at the end.
2. Ox: Diligent, but outsmarted by the Rat.
3. Tiger: Strong, powered through the current.
4. Rabbit: Nimble, hopped across stones and rode a log.
5. Dragon: Strong, but stopped to help others.
6. Snake: Hid on the Horse’s hoof.
7. Horse: Spooked by the snake.
8. Sheep; 9. Monkey; 10. Rooster: Worked together to cross.
11. Dog: Delayed by bathing in the river.
12. Pig: Stopped to eat and nap.

🔥 Wishing everyone a Happy Year of the Fire Horse 🔥

~ Exploring Hua Hin – A Week of Adventure ~

We recently spent a week in Hua Hin with Anthony’s brother and wife in their beautiful apartment. On our first night I managed to capture the bright orange moon from their verandah.

Daytime photos

Our first morning was spent walking around Khao Tao Lake. It is a serene and tranquil man-made reservoir. There is a running track and cycle path. We met plenty of other walkers on our way.

The lake is surrounded by ornate gold lamp posts topped with turtles. Luckily for us the water lilies were still blooming.

A fresh fruit juice bar to quench your thirst after your walk sits on one side of the lake.

A traditional fishing village is located just by the lake.

A quick stop at the beach for breakfast

After a lovely morning walk we headed to a local shopping mall where I could get a pedicure.

We decided to get a tuk tuk back instead of waiting for a taxi. Such fun weaving through the traffic with the wind in our hair. Our tuk tuk was a “Hello Kitty” style, decked out with small toys and painted pink.

A selfie of me and the driver!

Looking forward to seeing what the rest of the week brings.

Adding to Jo’s Monday Walk

~ Just another Manic Monday in Bangkok ~

We were back in Bangkok for just one night before flying off to Hong Kong. Staying at the Conrad this time.

For Monday Window

~ Birds Flying High – Silent Sunday ~

Khao Sam Roi Yot National Park, Thailand

~ Escape from the City – Aberdeen to Lamma Island, Hong Kong ~

During our time in Hong Kong we caught a bus to Aberdeen. We hadn’t been to Aberdeen in over twenty years and was surprised at how nice the new promenade was.

Aberdeen dates back to the Ming Dynasty, and was originally known as Hong Kong. When the first foreigners landed they thought this town was the whole island. Even after they discovered this wasn’t the case, the name still stuck. The name Aberdeen comes from George Hamilton-Gordon, 4th Earl of Aberdeen, The former Prime Minister of the United Kingdom (1852-1855).

Aberdeen is still a thriving fishing harbour with many people living on their boats.

During our stay in Hong Kong there was a “Pandamic”, advertised as a “Pandastic event”. We saw hundreds of these being blown up in Hong Kong Harbour. I couldn’t work out how this related to Christmas.

We walked along the promenade and noticed a ferry that was about to depart for Lamma Island. This was another place that we hadn’t been to since we had left Hong Kong. So without further ado, we jumped on board and sailed away.

Sailing away from Aberdeen to Lamma Island

We reached Lamma around lunchtime and meandered along the seafront looking for a place to eat. Many of the restaurants only serve seafood, mostly local cuisine. We opted for one that served Western also.

After lunch we had a wander up and down the seafront. Lamma is a fairly large island with many hiking trails. Young local Chinese often camp overnight here.

Dragon Boats are human powered watercraft and generally made from Teak. Dragon Boating is a popular pastime in Hong Kong, there is even a public holiday for this event.

The end of the promenade, Sok Kwu Wan, Lamma Island

If you are ever in Hong Kong and want to escape the busy city life, here is a fantastic way to see another side of Hong Kong. It’s a great day trip and easy to do. Ferries leave from Central, Hong Kong Island and Aberdeen regularly. Many people who visit HK miss out on these smaller side trips. They are not advertised much internationally but are very popular with local Hong Kong people. Ferries go back and forth regularly, both from Central and Aberdeen. The islands of Hong Kong and Country Parks are lush and verdant, which is a surprise to many.

~ Exploring Macau’s Iconic Casinos: A Visual Journey ~

During all the times we have been to Macau, we have never visited the famous casinos. This is something that has been on my list for a while.

Macau’s economy relies heavily on gambling. Macau has 61 casinos of which the biggest is The Venetian Macau. It’s surprising to note that Macau is the gambling capital of the World, the hotels and casinos are much larger for one thing.

Walking back from dinner on our first night, we passed by the MGM. So we stepped inside to take a look. There were several sculptures of lions, on display. As everyone knows the lion is the symbol of MGM.

The MGM Hotel

I loved the amazing detail of these lions, there were many more too.

Neither of us are gambling types which is fortunate, otherwise the temptations would be too great!

The artwork at the MGM is stunning, I could have stayed a night or two here quite happily. It felt more like a museum than a hotel.

Most of the casinos are located in Taipa and the three biggest are The Venetian, The Parisian and The Londoner. We managed The Venetian and The Londoner, but our senses were overwhelmed and we didn’t get to The Parisian. I did feel as if I had visited three cities in one day.

The Venetian

The Venetian in Macau was built to replicate The Venetian in Las Vegas. To say it is astounding would be an understatement. My first impressions on walking to the canals section were that the weather had improved and turned warmer. Realising that it was in fact a false ceiling, I had the feeling I was an extra on The Truman Show.

It was a Sunday the day we visited and also a festive holiday and the crowds were out in force. When I looked up I was momentarily confused as to what the dark holes in the sky were. I thought at first they were drones. I have to say it was very disconcerting.

I’ve now been to Venice!

As we left The Venetian, I looked up to see the striking ceiling, with such complex designs.

**Ceiling of The Venetian depicting signs of the Zodiac**

The Houses of Parliament from The Londoner in the background.

The Houses of Parliament and Big Ben at The Londoner

After a while Anthony said he had to get out, it was getting to be claustrophobic! They don’t make it easy though to find an exit, everywhere just seemed to lead to more labyrinths.

Before heading over to The Londoner I managed to take a couple of photos of the Eiffel Tower at The Parisian.

The Londoner

We stopped for a drink at one of the many cafes inside and watched The Changing of the Guards.

Big Ben

I enjoyed visiting The Londoner, the architecture is unbelievable. I can’t imagine how it would be to stay in a place like this. For one, the cost would be extortionate and also I think it would feel too overwhelming.

I’m happy that we visited some of the casinos but I doubt we would go back, Macau has so much more to offer. If you visit and want to see some fabulous art, I would suggest one of the big casinos.

~ Exploring Macau – A Visit to Taipa ~

After flying from Bangkok to Hong Kong, we immediately took the bus over the new HKZM Bridge. This is something Anthony has wanted to do for a while. Normally we would take the ferry, but after researching how to buy tickets, this was such an easy way to travel. There is no need to pick up your luggage as this is arranged for you. All we needed to do was follow the signs at the airport. Everything went smoothly and the bus ride was very comfortable. Our hotel was just a short taxi ride away.

HKZM Bridge (Hong Kong – Zuhai – Macau – Bridge) s a 55-kilometre (34 mi) bridge–tunnel system consisting of a series of three cable-stayed bridges, an undersea tunnel, and four artificial islands. It is both the longest sea crossing and the longest open-sea fixed link in the world. The cost of construction was US$18 billion and is meant to last 120 years. Source: Wikipedia.

We were staying at Crowne Plaza, Macau. Possibly one of the few hotels without a casino! Our room was on the 21st floor and we had amazing views over the sea and looking towards China. Although there was massive construction going on below for more reclaimed land.

Macau is a special administrative region of China. It is the most densely populated region in the World with a total of 710,000 people. It consists of three regions, Macau Peninsula, Taipa and Coloane. These three regions are connected by road bridges. There has been so much land reclamation over the last century that Macau has tripled its land size.

One of the places I wanted to revisit was the old Taipa houses. The last time we visited they were not open to the public. These houses were built in 1921 to house the wealthy Portuguese families.

Taipa

There is still a wonderful Mediterranean feel about Macau. With cobbled stone streets, louvered windows and street signs in Portuguese, you could imagine you were in Portugal. Being very near Christmas, there were hundreds of poinsettias lining the stairs and walls.