Wednesday, May 8, 2019

Lang Tengah Family 3D2N Getaway | Summer Bay Resort Review



Island hopping is not the privilege of the young and single. Us, with 2 young boys on the tow, managed to enjoy thoroughly on a 3days and 2 nights trip to Lang Tengah island at Summer Bay Resort just offshore of the Terengganu state of Malaysia. It's the site of shooting for the popular Chinese movie, Love U U (夏日乐悠悠).


 Remember the iconic pink church?


Recently a short movie was also produced locally featuring The resort.
Watch the short clip here.


Summer Bay Resort is a accredited 4 star accommodation which brings together the idea of living luxuriously as well as in a bohemian style. Do you know that many tourists also visit here after medical tourism such as in vitro fertilization which is gaining momentum in Malaysia.


We self drove from Kuantan around 6am and arrived at Merang Jetty just short of 9am. The drive was leisurely with a few pitstops for breakfast and toilet breaks along the highway. The toll road is so much easier to drive to compared to the old windy and narrow state roads. Summer Bay Resort has its own special shaded carpark which is guarded. Transport will then be arranged to Merang Jetty which is 1km away.

The speedboat left around 10.30 am. The weather was great and sunny with a calm water. The boys had fun watching the view and whirring past other islands. Towards the end of the half an hour ride, both were lulled to sleep by the waves. 




A welcome sour lime drink and cold towel washed away the fatigue. Check in was a smooth process for at least 6 rooms concurrently in which the guests arrived in the same boat trip. The staff were lovely and extremely helpful. We paid for an all inclusive package- accommodation, snorkelling and food so that we don't have to worry about spending on the island. The price is very attractive for the quality of service provided.

We settled down in deluxe pool view family room with 1queen bed and 2 single beds- a very thoughtful design for family. Besides the spacious bedroom, there were also two separate showers with toilet. The room was also clean and well maintained.


Other facilities include safe, bar fridge, wardrobe, flat screen TV and plenty of RO water. Water here is treated on-site and freely available. Remember your last vacation spending USD22 for a bottle of mineral water on an exotic island? Here you can unlimited supply free of charge!


Our lovely balcony overlooking the pool with clothes line available both outside the room and on the balcony.


The food here was equally awesome. A great variety with yummylicious way of cooking. It's Chinese buffet style (for lunch and first night dinner) and unlike many other all inclusive tourist package, the ingredients were fresh and delicious. The presentation was attractive. I could smell the cooking even from our room. And we looked forward to meal time- breakfast, lunch, teatime and dinner. There's no need to bring extra food into the island because they can also cater to your special dietary requirements if you inform in advance.


A 3D2N stay will include a wonderful spread of BBQ dinner like this. One can even order extra portion of seafood if desired but there were more than enough to savour. For those who chose the 4D3N package, a steamboat dinner will be arranged.

We rented snorkeling equipment and follow a free daily snorkeling trip around the vicinity. For more exciting options, one can purchase night snorkeling options to sight baby sharks and sting rays, or island hopping to redang and turtle point. Even the romantic option of appreciating the beauty of blue sand in the middle of night ocean. The snorkel guides are so friendly that baby Bing enjoyed his first snorkeling trip.


If going out on the boat is not an option, you can still snorkel around the resort because corals and baby sharks are not far away from the jetty.


There are many other activities to enjoy:
-sunrise walk
-scuba diving and licensing
-sand play
-turtle watching
-blue sand discovery
-karaoke
-pubbing at Sunset Bar
-supper at Mamak stall


The sun rise walk was worth the 15-20 minutes walk. Some parts were steep and required support from ropes and surrounding tree branches. It's not easy but I managed to do it while baby Yi was in the carrier.

Watch my YouTube for our awesome experience at the resort.

What does Dr Yingzangel think?


Besides quality accommodation and food, the service here is really tiptop. The staff went as far as locating baby Bing's lost monster truck in the hotel room after we checked out! We would definitely be back again! A true home away from home which is befitting as Maldives in Malaysia!


Summer Bay Resort Lang Tengah

Friday, May 3, 2019

Facial Cleanser for the tropical weather | Kiseki Marine Collagen Facial Cleanser Review

The hot and humid weather in tropical Malaysia can be both a bonus and downside for sensitive skin. For those with dry skin, it's less likely to get cracked and itchy skin, as well as eczema. However, problems like clogged pores, blemishes and acne are commonplace. I'm happy to introduce you all to my new discovery of a great facial cleanser which is specifically working amazingly in tropical weather-- Kiseki Japan Marine Collagen Facial Cleanser!



About Kiseki Japan
Kiseki Japan is a registered product in Japan and also certified by Malaysia Ministry of Health.  Quality control, product research & development and production process are 100% done in the manufacturing plant based in Japan which is globally recognized as the best quality in the world for skincare.

Kiseki means miracle in Japanese. Miss Cecil Beh is the founder of Kiseki Japan, who advocates women should make the best effort to achieve a confident appearance. She is a feminist and believes that a women should be confidence and happy being more active in professional workspace and business, as well as bringing positive vibes to her environment. To achieve that, her cleanliness is very important.

The main function of this cleanser are based on 3 principles-- foundation of youth, hydration and relaxation.
Foundation of youth -- Marine Fish Collagen
The majority of ingredient which is fish collagen is sourced from a prestige brand in Japan. It is water soluble and derived from hydrolyzation of fish scale. The ultrafine molecules are able to penetrate into pores to cleanse thoroughly and hydrate every layers of the skin. It also has minimal odor and is almostcolorless. The active ingredients in marine collagen such as proline and hydroxyproline are great moisturisers, acts to maintain skin elasticity and prevent excessive sebum production.
Foundation of Hydration-- Royal Jelly
Royal jelly is quite common to be known as a great ingredient for skincare products in the tropical climate. It minimises pores to create the look of velvety and smooth skin. In addition, Royal jelly also helps makeup to stay longer and adhere better by sealing skin hydration.
Foundation of Relaxation-- Natural Plant Based Fragrance Extract

By using natural ingredients, it reduces the risk of allergies and make the product more suitable for those with sensitive skin.
Besides that, Kiseki Marine Collagen Facial Cleanser also does not contain paraben and any other preservative, as well as artificial colouring.

How to use the cleanser?

Step 1. Place the face soap in the mesh provided and wet it. Gently rub it with your palm to create  fine foam.

Step 2. Gently wash outwards and upwards all over your face .
Step 3. Wash off with lukewarm water (do not use hot nor cold water to wash) and  then pat dry using a clean towel.
Step 4. Apply toner.
Step 5. Apply a generous amount of moisturizer so that your skin has sufficientskin care product tot absorb.

What does Dr Yingzangel think?

It's interesting that this cleanser comes in the form for a soap bar. I personally prefer liquid based cleanser in a tube because it's much easier to travel with. But the mesh that comes with the product makes it fairly easy to keep the soap bar in the bathroom with no mess and also just put everything together into a case while on the go.

I am doctor which has no regular working time with on-calls and always being tired. After using the product, my tired and dull skin immediately look clear and brighter! No traces of oil or impurities left on the skin. I think that's why Kiseki Japan Marine Collagen Facial Cleanser is also great for oily or combination skin like mine. My face feels so clean and refreshed with a faint floral scent left.
As this product enhances absorption of other skincare products, I could really use a generous amount after cleansing to give an extra boost to my face.
Besides that, marine collagen is one of the most versatile as it doesn't pose any cultural or religious issues in our multicultural society unlike sourcing collagen with other cheaper varieties such as bovine and porcine sources. However, those allergic to fish may also be allergic to marine collagen. So always do a patch test on your inner arm at least a day before trying it on your face if you are allergic to fish.
Interested? Head to Kiseki Japan sites to know find out more. The retail price is RM139. But quote this code angelpromo to get it at RM119 instead during their Mother's day promotion.
Kiseki Japan Marine Collagen Facial Cleanser has 1 for men and for women. Make sure you choose the correct one before checking out.

Kiseki Japan




Tuesday, April 30, 2019

The inspirational story of Jamumall founder Khairul Nizam


Jamu Mall is a success story. Jamu Mall is Malaysian made. It is an online shopping platform that sells many beauty products and fashion items.

But it's never smooth sailing for Khairul Nizam, the founder. Born to have severe physical disability, he's only able to move 3 fingers on his own. What this means for the past 30years of his life is that he's fully dependent  for all this basic needs of daily living.

From eating, bathing, toileting, dressing and ambulating, he needs assistance. What's even more torturing is that he has normal intelligence. He must have spent nights crying and mourning over his disabilities. However this has become a blessing in disguise. True indeed, what doesn't kill him make him stronger.

Not only has he built a shopping empire Jamu Mall Sdn Bhd, but he has also managed to expand to a shopping platform online. This is huge success. Malaysians are buying from him, not because many know about his story and out of sympathy, but it's because his products are really of good quality.

Nizam believes that physical disability is not a hurdle to success. He perseveres in the journey of entrepreneurship and had to courage to take the first leaping step in establishing Jamu Mall. It must have taken a lot of planning to get this all set up. We have probably heard how many able bodied people failed in their business ventures. This makes all the more reason why I really salute Nizam.



Not only has he earned enough for a living, but he also has the ability to provide for his family members. He, as well as his family members, can afford to have holiday overseas at multiple destinations like Australia, Dubai, Korea and Japan. Nizam has also managed to move to a much bigger and luxurious house.

Nizam would like to encourage the rest to strive for success. He is really envious towards the able bodied who can run, walk and carry on their lives normally. But many tend to take these as granted. They give up easily and take a lackadaisical attitude in life.

He thinks that God put breaths in him for a purpose. So he works very hard. He wants to prove that the best way of living is by being grateful to everything in life. He takes these attributes as important such as strong motivation, love towards others, courage and the urge to keep improving one self.


He would like to urge everyone to put effort and make positive changes in our lives. Because he has proven that he can do it even with only 3 fingers, so why can't we?

Watch Khairul Nizam's touching speech here.



Jom follow Khairul Nizam

Thursday, April 25, 2019

Fashionable and durable baby goods | Skip Hop Zoo Collection Review X Bloom & Grow


I was always envious as a child how other children get to own a cute set of paraphernalia. However, in retrospect, most of these were only pretty and expensive yet mostly unpractical. Often found on the pristine display shelf in the departmental store. And left to collect dust after a few uses.

However, I'm proud to let everyone know that we have recently acquired a whole set of Skip Hop zoo paraphernalia from Bloom& Grow.

Skip Hop comes all the way from New York City to Malaysia bringing joy with the philosophy of "Must-Haves Made Better". Founded by parents Michael and Ellen Diamant in 2003, they want stylish yet functional baby goods suitable for the busy metropolitan life, for parents who are always on the go.


The Skip Hop Zoo Collection offers a few cute animals to choose from-- llama, leopard, giraffe, bat, fox and unicorn. All Skip Hop products meet or exceed ASTM and applicable safety standards. And the food wares are dishwasher safe, BPA-free, Phthalate-free and PVC-free.

Baby Bing happily chose llama as his 3years old birthday present. Let me introduce the products one by one.


Skip Hop Zoo Llama Little Kid Backpack

The main features are
-Zippered main compartment
-Side pocket for bottle or juice box
-Write-on nametag inside
-Top handle for convenience


Skip Hop Zoo Llama Lunchies

The main features are
-Roomy, insulated bag keeps food and drinks cold
-Large main compartment big enough for a sandwich, apple and juice box
-Interior mesh pocket for utensils
-Top handle clips onto any backpack


Skip Hop Zoo Llama Straw Bottle

The main features are
- Flip-top lid keeps the water clean
- Comes with an extra straw
- Handy grab-strap attaches to anything
- Holds 12 oz
- Easily diassembled for cleaning


How to disassemble?
1. Pull plastic straw and silicone straw from bottom of lid. 
2. Pull plastic straw and silicone straw apart.


Skip Hop Zoo Llama Plate

The main features are
-Durable melamine
-Two divided sections separate food
-Not recommended for microwave use


I apologise for the poor quality of the animation as baby Bing was way too excited playing house.

Skip Hop Zootensils-- Llama

The main features are
-Perfectly chunky for growing toddlers
-Stainless-steel heads
-Soft sides for easy grips

What does Dr Yingzangel think?

I love how matching the set is. Besides that the products are value for money. The bags are durable and made with lasting materials. The size is just nice for young children going to kindergarten. The lunchies can easily keep food cold for several hours so no more worries about serving Bing's favorite chocolate milk cold and fresh just the way he prefers it.

The dining wares are heavy enough to help the young ones eat without spilling. The cutleries are deliberately chunky so that it's much easier to hold on to. Melamine is generally safe but it should not be heated in a microwave oven. And the straw bottle is easy to diassemble to allow thorough cleaning. Otherwise it can collect mould and yucky dirt! 12oz also holds a decent amount of water to last for half a day.

If you want to know more about why the following ingredients can be harmful, read the links I have included below:
PVC

Where can one buy the Skip Hop Zoo Series?

Luckily it's easily available nation wide including Happikiddo, Mothercare, Manjaku, Bebehaus and Lazada.

Want to know more? Head onto their official sites/Instagram.
Bloom and Grow Asia :@bloomandgrowasia
Smartmum : @smartmumasia
Skip Hop : @skiphop.asia

Monday, April 22, 2019

Exploring lunch spot in Kuantan | Max Kitchen review

The hot and hazy weather made me kind of grumpy. So we were pleasantly surprised to discover this new lunch spot along the back alley when we were heading to micasa cafe. Max kitchen has been opened for about 6 months now.


Max Kitchen

17, Jalan Besar, 25050 Kuantan, Pahang
016-932 8333

https://g.co/kgs/vN3J2z

Opens daily 9am to 11pm except Tuesdays


Absolutely in love with the atmosphere. The old Chinese style with music back in the 60s. My parents would enjoy it. However, would prefer the place to be colder because we were still sweating while dining indoors.


Time to try the food!


Curry noodles was mildly spicy with a great balance of coconut milk flavor. With stuffed brinjal, tofu puff and fish ball. It goes well with their sambal which is slightly soury in taste. But I prefer more kick to the chilli.


Noodles with prawn wanton. The clear soup is fairly bland to taste. Would also prefer real fresh prawns in the wanton too.


Dumpling soup. I deliberately ordered it without any noodles. Love how they pan fried the dumplings before cooking it in soup to give it a slightly charred flavour. But again, slightly disappointed with the bland soup.


Tomato chicken with rice. The tomato sauce is sweet and I couldn't taste any natural sourness that comes with tomato. Chicken was tender. The old cucumber soup was fairly tasty. Would be perfect if this soup was used for their noodle dishes.


Smoked duck breast roll. An interesting side dish at RM10 each set. I love how soft the roll and the filing in. But I would prefer more duck breast.

The coffee, on the other hand, was fabulous. A strong bitter trademark of Lavazza coffee which still retains its smoothness. Given that there's no barista in the cafe, I give them praises for serving such good coffee.

Americano

Cappuccino

Overall, we rate the cafe 6.5/10. Very affordable with all these at only RM52 (they do charge for plain water). And awesome dining atmosphere at such a price tag. 

Thursday, April 18, 2019

How to clean dirty shoes fast and easy | Dirt Out by On''Goin review


I have big feet. So it can be fairly difficult for me to get a good and beautiful pair of shoes because I'm a size 10. Therefore I'm always reluctant to throw away an old pair of shoes. But with time, dust and dirt get collected onto the shoes and it can be a tough job to scrub them off, let alone making them look new again.

How did I use to clean my shoes?

1. Soak shoes in laundry detergent and water for half an hour.
2. Scrub very hard to get rid of stains which can be stubborn.
3. Wash off the detergent.
4. Air dry the shoes under the sun for at least half an day.

This is at least take up half an hour for each pair of shoes. Being a full-time working mother, I need something better and faster.

Dirt Out by On''Goin


On''Goin started to be a company producing affordable and durable shoes. This must come with their revolutionary shoe cleaning solution called Dirt Out.

Watch my short video to see how effective and easy it is to clean a pair of shoes. They look spanking new! Just a few simple wipes with a wash cloth. Additionally, it is made with 98.3% natural ingredients which is fully biodegradable with antibacterial effects.

Simply pump out the foaming solution onto a wash cloth. Wipe the dirty shoes. There's no need for scrubbing. Tada, done!

What's more, Dirt Out can be used for footwear made by various materials such as canvas, rubber, leather, vinyl, nylon, PVC, PU, mesh etc. There's also no need to air dry the shoes which may become somewhat hardened after being exposed under the sun. This is also useful if you only own a pair of shoes that's dirty and have limited time to air dry before next use.


The twin pack is sold on Lazada at only RM24.90

In addition, On"goin also produces shoes made from EVA foam. This is a type of polymer which has good clarity and gloss, low-temperature toughness, stress-crack resistance, water proof and resistance to UV radiation.

We have gotten 6 pairs of shoes so far. The design is suitable for the whole family-- from my parents, my husband and I to my 3year old toddler.
Sandals for baby Bing

Sandals for me

Covered shoes for mom

They offer a good range of covered shoes and sandals. I love how soft and comfortable the shoes feel. The price tag is also very affordable.

Interested? More information on
FB 

Saturday, April 13, 2019

Tun Mahathir Commemoration Coin- the oldest prime minister | review


The last general election was a dream. On 9 May 2018 which also happened to be my birthday, for the first time in Malaysia's history, unexpectedly, the opposition won the election. It became the headline for many countries. It showed that the Rakyat chose their leaders. A great evidence of democracy.

The other historical moment was when Tun Dr Mahathir was sworn in to be the prime minister for the second time. At the age of 93, he remained charismatic and dedicated. Not only is he the oldest serving state leader in the world, he has also previously served the nation from 1981-2003 ( even before I was born!).

Well, I'm not here talking about politics. Being a budding geriatrician, I'm well aware of the physical limitations ageing can cause. And much to my respect, Tun Dr Mahathir defies it all. Even his wife, Tun Dr Siti Hasmah is aging gracefully and still has sharp mental faculties.

The people are just in awe. Age is not a limit to attain great achievements. There's no such thing as one is too old for anything. We decided to get our hands on Tun Mahathir Commemoration Coin as a memento. To remind ourselves that nothing is impossible.


The Star dedicated an article for Tun Dr Mahathir's achievements 3 days after the election ended. I love how beautiful this diagram depicts his contributions to Malaysia. Despite having to go through a coronary bypass grafting in 1989, he remains tenacious. What an attribute!


Even soyacincau.com has a list of tech legacies spearheaded by Tun Dr Mahathir. His vision for the development of Malaysia, to put us on par with the rest of the developed world.

1. KLCC, Petronas Twin Tower
2. Proton
3. MSC Malaysia
4. Cyberjaya
5. LRT
6. Sepang International Circuit
7. KLIA
8. The Penang bridge
9. Smart schools
10. The MSC bill of gurantees

This commemoration coin is made of 0.1g gold and a beautifully carved Tun Mahathir's portrait. The casing documented a brief history about Tun Mahathir with his signature at the bottom of the page. The cover also features the now Pakatan Harapan logo which means The Alliance of Hope.

We wish the 'new' Malaysia the best led by the 'new' government!

Interested to get a copy of Tun Mahathir Commemoration Coin? Get it here.

MISMIS: EMBRACE NATURE, NURTURE YOUR SMILE

 Good oral health is the basis of general well-being. It ensures a healthy smile. This boosts self confidence and leaves a lasting impressio...