Friday, February 26, 2010

The Falcon is Back!

As the title implies, I'm back to my hometown for 3 days 2 nights, taking advantage of the public holiday today as I have obligation to be with my wife, family and in laws.

On the way back, I saw an airstrip of what looks like an airport for Tanjung Manis

One of the bridges which will connect Sibu and Sarikei to Tanjung Manis

The sight of many rivers (even though the colour is an eyesore) is an indication I had arrived in the Land of the Hornbills.

I never thought I will be so happy to see Sibu Airport again. At least I will be my loved one on the 15th day of the Chinese New Year before departing back to Putrajaya again for work.

Wednesday, February 24, 2010

CNY Decoration at Alamanda Putrajaya

Last weekend I went to Alamanda to get some groceries and I notice some of the Chinese New Year decoration there.

The main decoration is at the centre court with the red clothes hanging over its ceiling surrounded with the Chinese lanterns.

There is a huge red carpets beneath it which also serves as the centre stage surrounded with stalls.

Cultural shows were held here at occasionally and I was impressed with their skill.

Also seen here is a tiger statue although it looks more like a cat to me

Monday, February 22, 2010

Shangri-la Putrajaya

Shangri-La Putrajaya is the best located hotel in Putrajaya. Strategically positioned itself in Precint 1, Taman Putra Perdana, in the heart of the core district.

There is no easy or cheap way to get here. Taxi from airport to Putrajaya will cost at an exorbitant price of RM64.20. The cheapest and also the arduous way is to take the KLIA Transit to Putrajaya Sentral (one can opt for a taxi from Putrajaya Sentral at a more reasonable rate, an estimated RM10 fare from here) and take Nadiputra bus to stop at the bus stop at Complex D. After that, it will be an estimated 10 minutes steep climb up the hill to the hotel.

The hotel is not as big as I would imagine. I reckon it only has around 40-60 rooms. It is not a very tall structure, just 4 floors to be exact.

However, as with any Shangri-La Hotels elsewhere, the service here is exceptional and I am very satisfied with their friendliness and top notch service. Check in is without any issue.

All check in guest will be given a complimentary cocktail party at the Lobby Lounge from 5-7pm. I have to say this is the best welcoming drink I ever have. They have soft drink, white wine, red wine and beer.

The Lobby Lounge is beautifully decorated and furnished. A great way to unwind after a hectic schedule.

I reckon the hotel have great spa too but the price tag is quite steep for a normal person

There is also a lush artificial jungle at the ground floor which soothe the eyes.

The hallway leading to the room.

The cheapest room one can get here is around RM298-320 (excluding tax). It ain't cheap but the room offered here is exceptionally comfortable and spacious.

The king size bed is comfortable and the hotel provides lot of pillows

I am surprised they have a table clock with alarm by the bed side.

They have a nice working table that made me feel like home with complimentary internet connection. A calendar is also available on the table. Strangely, the hair dryer is located beneath this table.

This is one comfortable couch where my friend fell asleep almost instantly

The hotel will supply complimentary fruits everyday, around 5-7pm when the guest is away for dinner or something.

I like the bathroom as well. There are separate compartment for shower and toilet. Bath tub is also available. The toiletry amenities are also very comprehensive.

I open the wardrobe but I sense something is missing for a 5 star hotel like this. I can't locate an ironing board and its iron at all.

Some of the other amenities available in the room. Ice cubes will be delivered together with the complimentary fruits every evening.

Coffee and tea but the difference here is the hotel offers more variety of teas for the guess. This is what I don't see everyday.

Every room has a balcony which offers guest with a spectacular view of the surrounding Putrajaya

Shangri-La Hotel is an ideal base to explore Putrajaya. Putra Perdana Garden, Putrajaya Landmark and Melawati Palace is just within walking distance from here. Nearest bus stop is about 8 minutes walk. The hotel do offer shuttle bus service to Alamanda every 2-3 hours interval. For the record, it is a 25 minutes walk from the hotel to Alamanda by taking the path between Complex D and E into the Promenade.