Category Archives: Entertainment

Mega Grand World Hanoi (Vietnam)

Posted on by — Leave a reply
Mega Grand World Hanoi

Prior to our departure back to Manila, we made a short stopover at the Mega Grand World Hanoi, a large-scale entertainment and leisure complex that opened in 2023.  Designed to be a comprehensive destination for both locals and tourists, it combines shopping, dining, cultural experiences, and entertainment. This new urban area, mega complex and vibrant festive space, conveniently situated at the heart of Ocean City, to the east of Hanoi, offers visitors a unique blend of top-tier entertainment, upscale shopping, vibrant events, and where visitors can immerse themselves in the rich cultural tapestry of Asia and Europe via a captivating fusion of Asian and European landscapes. 

L-R: Jandy, Grace, the author, Lourdes and Lorraine

It connects the Coral Avenue of Vinhomes Ocean Park 2, the Four Seasons Avenue of Vinhomes Ocean Park 3, and Ring Road 3.5. From the timeless elegance of Venetian-inspired areas and the bustling energy of Korean-inspired zones, Grand World provides endless opportunities for sightseeing and photography.

Jandy and Grace

The lively Venice – Riverside Western Market, featuring an authentic array of colorful shops lining the colorful streets and enchanting banks of the river, offers Italian charm with gondola boats, which are reminiscent of those found on Venetian canals. Visitors can board these gondolas and enjoy a picturesque cruise along the serene, 830-m. long canal, admire the magnificent sunset, explore the diverse shops, and immerse themselves in the vibrant culture that this zone encapsulates. During the ride, you will also get to enjoy impromptu European music performances.

Pedestrian bridge crossing the canal

Crossing the canal is a pedestrian bridge connecting to Asia, with typical Korean ancient houses in the K-Town subdivision.

The bustling K-Town – Coastal Eastern Street, featuring a dynamic blend of traditional and modern architecture, creates a vibrant ambiance reminiscent of some of Korea’s most iconic areas. This zone captures the essence of both ancient and contemporary Korean culture through its diverse offerings, including the upscale Gangnam shopping street, the multicultural Itaewon cultural street, the youthful Hongdae food and art street, and the bustling Myeongdong fashion and beauty street.

Little Hong Kong, a zone that captures the essence of Hong Kong, feels like entering a paradise of shopping, entertainment, and joy. Stepping into Little Hong Kong, visitors can experience the culinary delight and cultural life of Hong Kong, right in Hanoi, as they enjoy an array of experiences that extend from vibrant shopping streets to lively entertainment venues, including lounges, bars, and pubs.

The unique Grand Voyage Show, a special, unforgettable performance held on Asia’s largest outdoor boat stage, brings to life the bustling and magnificent European trade route, crossing the maritime Silk Road, five oceans, and the trading port of Hoi An, Vietnam through captivating performances enhanced by advanced technology, impressive 3D mapping, dynamic sound and light effects, a giant water screen, and a talented cast of over 62 actors.

Gondola ride

The mesmerizing and unforgettable “Journey to the Wonderland,” a circus show presented by a talented troupe of professional performers from China, invites and transports audiences to a new realm of thrilling dreams through the captivating language of elaborate circus performances. With awe-inspiring acts and mesmerizing choreography, the show promises to dazzle audiences of all ages.

The fantastic and delightful carousel ride, with its vibrant colors and enchanting music, offers a nostalgic journey for visitors of all ages as you enjoy panoramic views of Grand World’s bustling atmosphere while being carried away by the gentle motion of the carousel.

Grand World, a shopping paradise that cater to every shopping enthusiast’s needs, boasts a plethora of renowned fashion and cosmetic brands. Visitors can also shop for furniture at Sinh Phu, sofas at Kuka Home, and household appliances at Lock & Lock. 

Come evening, visitors are treated to a dazzling spectacle of lights and colors as fireworks light up the sky above Grand World, adding an extra layer of magic as you’re strolling through the vibrant streets, enjoying a delicious meal at a restaurant, or simply taking in the sights and sounds of the bustling complex.

The serene Tropical Lagoon, a man-made beach with fine white sand and clear blue water amidst urban landscapes, provides the perfect setting for moments of relaxation and rejuvenation. It also boasts an array of artworks, making it a haven for photography enthusiasts seeking to capture quality photos.

Grand World 0ffers an unparalleled culinary experience, with hundreds of renowned domestic and international brands. Visitors can indulge in dishes from Vietnam’s three regions as well as explore unique flavors from Thai, Korean, Japanese, Italian, and American cuisines. After a satisfying meal, you can relax at beautiful coffee shops, bars, and clubs, including favorites like Highlands Coffee, Trung Nguyen Legend, Katinat Cafe, Poseidon Bar, and 729 Club.

VinWonders Wave Park & Water Park, surrounded by blue water and white sand, offers a variety of thrilling and exhilarating water sports activities such as slides, themed playgrounds, and outdoor and indoor pools.

Mega Grand World Ha Noi: Nghĩa Trụ, Văn Giang, Hung Yen, Vietnam.  Tel: +84 1900 232389. Open 24/7 (some activities and services have specific operating hours). You will need to pay for optional experiences like gondola rides or costume rentals.  Entrance fee: Free of charge (some activities and services have specific fees). The main daily show, “The Grand Voyage,” takes place on the Venice River at 9 PM (21:00). Various attractions have different opening and closing times. The gondola ride service on the Venice river operates daily, from 10 AM to 8 PM. The Teddy Bear Museum may have separate ticket prices. A general admission ticket is available for around $150,000 VND. 

How to Get There: Visitors can easily reach Grand World from Hanoi via various means of transportation. If you have a motorbike or car, you can drive to Grand World from Hanoi yourself in just about 50 minutes from the city center. This complex is equipped with numerous parking lots.  Just follow the route: Vinh Tuy Bridge – Co Linh Street – Hanoi-Hai Phong Highway – Grand World. VinBus. which continuously operates, connects Grand World with various locations in downtown Hanoi. Free electric VIN bus service is available from Hoan Kiem and Time City to Grand World Hanoi. 

Hoa Sen Water Puppet Theatre (Ha Long City, Vietnam)

Posted on by — Leave a reply
Vietnamese water puppetry

After the end of our Ambrose Day Cruise, we again boarded our coach for the short 6.9-km. drive to Hoa Sen Water Puppet Theatre (Thanh Long Water Puppet Theatre) where we were to watch a water puppet show, a unique art form, central to Vietnamese culture, offering insight into local traditions, rural life, folklore, and historical tales, accompanied by live music. 

Check out “Ambrose Day Cruise”

Hoa Sen Water Puppet Theatre

A dedicated venue for traditional Vietnamese water puppetry (Múa rối nước) which originated in the 11th century from the rice-farming villages of the Red River Delta here, we watched ancient Vietnamese water puppetry featuring puppets, made of fig wood carved and painted skillfully in various fascinating shapes as well as symbolic facial expressions, moving on a water stage. 

Shows feature scenes of rice planting, fishing, dragon dances, and folk stories, bringing Vietnamese village life to the stage. Family-friendly, children especially enjoy the colorful puppets and engaging stories.

The stage

Traditionally performed during festivals, celebrations, and special occasions such as the Lunar New Year, over time, it evolved from a humble village entertainment into a distinctive form of traditional Vietnamese performing art. 

The singers to the left of the stage

Aside from Hoa Sen, there are two other water puppet theaters in Halong that are famous for water puppetry: Hoang Gia International Park (Bai Chay Tourist Area) and Yen Duc Village (Dong Trieu District). Since performing water puppets requires a large body of water, Halong Bay is an ideal place to showcase the colors of this rich and special cultural show, making it a popular, easily accessible cultural activity for visitors to the region.

The folk orchestra to the right of the stage

A showcase of the traditional daily lives of Vietnam’s farmers, from their way of making a living on the rice field to how they entertain themselves after hard working hours, the Hoa Sen Water Puppet Theatre covers an area of nearly 1,000 sq. m., with a seating capacity of up to 500 people at one time. It organizes a special performance, combining 16 different local fairy tales with interesting stories about Vietnam’s culture.

The farming theme

The themes of the 30 to 35-minute show focus on the daily life of farmers, folklore, historical tales and the general aspects of the Vietnamese’s spiritual life.  Puppets are manipulated by puppeteers standing in waist-deep water behind a screen, creating a magical effect. To the left and right of the stage are two small folk orchestra of 5 and 7 people, respectively. Currently, there are 3 water puppet shows in a day, with each show lasting from 30 – 35 minutes.

The puppeteers

Hoa Sen Water Puppet Theatre: No. 46 – The 2nd Peninsular, Hoang Quoc Viet, Halong City. Admission: 150,000vnd/pax

Sun Plaza Sapa (Vietnam)

Posted on by — 2 Comments ↓
Sun Plaza Sapa

Come morning of our second day in Sapa, after breakfast at Bora Hotel, we walked along Cau May Walking Street, towards Sapa Square and the stunning, instantly recognizable four-storey Sun Plaza Sapa, a shopping and entertainment complex and the essential hub and crucial starting point for our visit to Mount Fansipan, the “Rooftop of Indochina” as it houses, at the first floor, the ticket office for the iconic Muong Hoa funicular.  Offering a unique way to travel through the clouds while taking in breathtaking views of the stunning mountain scenery, the train has a classic design and luxury vibe.

Check out “Cau May Walking Street” and “Sapa Square“

The Muong Hoa Funicular

The building, in itself, is a must-see spot in the heart of the beautiful town of Sapa. Sun Plaza Sapa is a place with great views, a shopping center and dining options, including a bar, at the first, second and third floors, and a parking area at the ground floor.

The clock tower

Designed in a grand, classic, luxurious and beautiful French-style architecture (by architect Bill Bensley of the international architectural firm Chapman Taylor) that brings a touch of Europe to the Sapa mountains, it was built by Sun Group and completed in late 2018.

L-R (front row): Des, Grace, Lourdes, Lorraine. L-R (Back row): Jandy and the author

The building, with its striking yellow and green façade, also features large glass windows, which create a bright and inviting atmosphere, especially at night. The clock tower at the entrance, one of the main attractions and a symbol at Sun Plaza Sapa, attracts many visitors for photos.  Inspired by the famous Big Ben clock tower in the United Kingdom, it has three large clocks with a round, lantern-like design.

The circular central hall

Upon stepping into the large circular hall of Sun Plaza Sapa, its floor decorated with motifs such as centrally located bronze drums, we felt like we were entering a European royal palace or a castle without leaving Vietnam.  Showcasing unique French-style of architecture with an interesting Vietnamese touch, its delicate interiors features a dome, large columns, stunning lights, grand corridors with intricately decorated walls, elegant glass doors, European-style lamps, arches, and metal railings.

The funicular ticket office

The symmetrical design adds to the elegance, and the delicately painted artwork on the ceiling in the main lobby, with flowers and leaves, along with bright, sparkling light beams, is particularly eye-catching. This place is a perfect spot offering countless beautiful spots to snap amazing, Instagram-worthy photos.

The dome with its delicately painted artwork on the ceiling

Shopping is a must at here as this shopping center is full of fashion (shoes, clothing, bags, cosmetics, etc.), local souvenirs, and regional specialties, ranging from budget-friendly to luxury items. As a food paradise, it offers delicious European dishes, prepared by professional chefs, to make your dining experience unforgettable. There are also cozy cafés and eateries, including a Starbucks.

Passing by the Starbucks on the left

De la Coupole Sapa – MGaller, a luxury 5-star hotel inside Sun Plaza known for its elegance and charm, offers a unique, unforgettable experience, with 249 stunning and creatively designed rooms inspired by local Northwest culture and French and Indochinese design. A perfect spot for a special and relaxing getaway, the hotel also has restaurants, bars, a spa, and event spaces.  

Passing the Highlands Coffee shop on the right

Absinthe, a cafe on the 10th floor, next to Sun Plaza, with French design and art creating a cozy vibe, is a great spot to relax and the perfect place to sit down for a coffee either inside, to enjoy the blended artistic interior space and French fashion style, or outside to take in the beauty of Sapa, enjoying nature and the amazing views of Sapa’s majestic mountains and forests hidden in the flying clouds.

Stairway with intricately designed metal railings

Sun Plaza Sapa: 1 Ng. Cau May, Sa Pa Town, Sa Pa, Lao Cai.  Tel: +84 948 309 999. Open daily, 7:30 AM to 10 PM. Website: www.sunworld.vn.

Cau May Walking Street (Sapa, Vietnam)

Posted on by — 1 Comment ↓
Cau May Walking Street

After our tour of Sapa Square and the Church of the Holy Rosary, we all proceeded to walk along the historic Cau May Walking Street, to reach Bora Hotel where we were to stay overnight.  Also known as Western Street, it is nestled in the grandeur of the Northwest mountains. 

Check out “Sapa Square“ and “Church of the Holy Rosary”

This popular and vibrant, though relatively small pedestrian-only street, in foggy Sapa town, is known for its lively atmosphere and local street food, with numerous modern restaurants, bars, cafes and 3 to 5-star hotels, and is a cultural hub where locals and tourists can interact, stroll, explore the bustling night market, sample local street food, and relax at a bar. 

Food stall and restaurant

It was built in 1905, during the French colonial era as a retreat for French officials and Vietnamese locals alike, and serves as a convenient point to access other tourist spots in Sapa. At night, the street comes alive with colorful displays and many shops and stalls selling local street food and traditional handmade crafts.  

Sapa’s nightlife is often described as a blend of liveliness and an atmosphere that remains more tranquil than in large cities. Visitors can enjoy a variety of delicious and high-quality local Northern Highland specialties, ranging from humble to upscale culinary experiences.

They include dishes like sour salmon hotpot, Sapa green vegetable stir-fry, grilled deer with lemongrass, local pork, honey-glazed grilled duck, hotpot with gang hot sauce, butter lemon sauce fish, Sapa mushroom and lotus seed braised chicken, thang co (a famous horse meat soup), thit trau gac bep (dried buffalo meat), xoi ngu sac (five-color sticky rice), grilled skewers (lamb and bird) and bamboo-cooked rice as well as more modern dining options.

Cau May Walking Street in daytime

The street has a unique ambiance that harmoniously combines the allure of vintage and classic Western charm of the past century, with a touch of modernity, the captivating culture of local ethnic minorities, such as the H’mong and Tay. The street occasionally hosts cultural events and festivals that showcase the region’s heritage. 

Bora Hotel

Cau May Walking Street: 19 Cau May Street, Sapa Town, Lao Cai Province.

Hanoi Train Street (Vietnam)

Posted on by — Leave a reply
Hanoi Train Street

Upon our arrival in Hanoi’s Noi Bai International Airport, we met up with our Vietnamese guide from Hava Travel and boarded our coach for our city tour.  Our first destination was Hanoi Train Street, a 25.2-km. (45-min.) drive away.  This captivating blend of old-world charm and vibrant modern life winds its way through several bustling streets, including Phung Hung, Dien Bien Phu, and Le Duan. Here, we were to experience something unique many visitors enjoy – the thrill and excitement of sipping coffee while watching trains pass just inches away.

L-R: the author, Jandy, Grace, Lourdes and Lorraine

This narrow train bypass in Hanoi was built in 1902, during the French colonial era, when the French established the railway system to connect Hanoi with other parts of Vietnam.  As of 2025, it is still an active rail line.  It sees, several times daily, a train pass close to buildings on either side of the single train track line.  It runs north from south, to Hanoi railway station whose width takes up nearly the entirety of the famous Hanoi Train Street which refers to the narrow railway tracks running through residential neighborhoods, along Tran Phu and Phung Hung streets, in the Old Quarter.

When trains approach, local residents living alongside the tracks clear their belongings from the narrow space. During other times, they often use the space for daily activities like drinking tea and playing board games. The street developed into a tourist destination and, along the narrow alley, tourists would often stop and take pictures to post on social media. In recent years, safety concerns have increased as tourism has grown.

One of the cozy cafes lining the tracks

The street attracted widespread recognition and, eventually, became a tourist attraction. In October 2019, citing safety concerns, Vietnamese government directed businesses along the train track to close and implemented barriers and police presence to restrict tourist access to the street. This prompted thousands of complaints on social media and negatively affected local tourist businesses. In early 2023, the train street has reopened for tourists. 

Since it became popular with world tourists, Hanoi Train Street has seen a growth in local businesses and, as the number of visitors increased, many residents around the area turned their colorful homes into small, cozy cafes (Cafe Đường Tàu, Cafe Ga Đông Hương, etc.) and small businesses selling drinks, food and a range of traditional handmade local handicrafts (railway paintings, conical hats, embroidered wallets, ceramic teapots, etc.). Along the streets near the railway, numerous souvenir shops also line both sides of the road.

A reminder of the dangers on the track…..

Upon arrival, we approached the train tracks crossing Dien Bien Phu Street and the crowds were beginning to gather.  As we walked along Train Street, we caught the rich aroma of coffee and the enticing scents of traditional beef pho and fragrant grilled meat from roadside stalls.

We all sat down at outdoor seating areas closer to the wall at one of the local cafes, its façade adorned with colorful hanging lanterns and flags.  Along the alley are vibrant murals, in bright, vivid colors, that beautifully depict scenes from the past, such as Hanoi trams (which ran from 1901 to 1991), bustling streets, street vendors, festivals, and old houses that capture the everyday life of Hanoians.

The train arrives….

While waiting for the train to arrive, we ordered aromatic and creamy egg coffee (Cà Phê Trứng), a rich, creamy and decadent Vietnamese drink featuring a sweet, airy foam of whisked egg yolk, sugar, and condensed milk and served atop strong, dark coffee, often brewed with a traditional phin filter. Prices typically range from 25,000 to 60,000 VND (USD 1 – USD 3).

While sipping our strong Vietnamese coffee from our front-row seat, street vendors, residents, and children were playing near the tracks. Soon, we heard the blaring of the train horn and the locals quickly pulled in tables and chairs just in time as, seconds later, a train barreled past us.

Egg Coffee

It was an exhilarating experience, as the rumbling train sped by, just inches away from us.  Watching the train race through Hanoi Train Street was a thrilling spectacle.  Truly, Hanoi Train Street was a place where the soul of Hanoi thrives, framed by the hum of trains and the warmth of local life.

Hanoi Train Street: P. Trần Phú, Hàng Bông, Hoàn Kiếm, Hà Nội 100000, Vietnam. Usually, there are over 7 trains passing by, from 7AM to 11PM. There is no entrance fee to visit Hanoi Train Street. Popular viewing times are around 3 to 3:30 PM and 7 to 7:30 PM. Local cafes, on both sides, indicate the train timetable. You could also request train passing by time from cafe in advance.  The stretch through Phung Hung Street is, undoubtedly, the most vibrant, drawing visitors with its lively atmosphere and the thrilling spectacle. You can also watch along the alley of 224 Lê Duẩn street, specifically, along Điện Biên Phủ and Phùng Hưng streets, Alley 5 on Tran Phu Street and the main Hanoi Railway Station.

A: Museum – Immersive Art Universe (Paranaque City, Metro Manila)

Posted on by — 2 Comments ↓

The interactive and engaging, 5,000-square meter A: Museum – Immersive Art Universe, the Philippines’ largest digital art museum, is a popular destination for families, friends, and dates.  It is a collaboration between the Philippine Amusement and Entertainment Corporation (PAEC), Ayala Malls, and South Korea’s APLAN Company. Established in 2021, PAEC, which curates and operates the museum, is regarded as the largest creator and operator of interactive and educational indoor attractions in the Philippines.

A: Museum – Immersive Art Universe

Beautiful and massive and designed to ignite curiosity and wonder, it features an immersive digital experience where Classical art comes to life through interactive installations and cutting-edge technology.  The exhibits here are designed to be visually stunning and are popular for capturing highly Instagrammable photos and sharing experiences. 

It also features immersive digital art installations including a ball pit and motion light and motion installations and digital versions and reproductions of classic art works of famous artists such as Vincent Van Gogh, Claude Monet, Wassily Kandinsky and Pablo Picasso, offering visitors a 2-hour, immersive experience where they have an active role in the experience, with interactive elements and a focus on creating memorable and photo-worthy moments. 

The author at Stellar Chamber

Here, we explored, in a series of mesmerizing spaces that blur the lines between time, space, and imagination, and carefully curated to celebrate the fusion of art and technology, timeless masterpieces that transcend generations and cultures, engaging with art in a way that is both unique and profound.  There are 12 immersive, multi-thematic digital art rooms. The moment we entered the dynamic and futuristic Teleport Gallery, a new world appeared as we are led through time and space, giving us a quick look at artistic movements, from ancient to contemporary, modern art, where past and present blend into a powerful experience of change.

Teleport Gallery

At the fascinating Portal of Lights, we marveled at an interplay of light and music. Here, a laser shows syncs perfectly with the music, creating vibrant shapes. The ball pool, like a portal leading to another dimension, is filled with a red glow, casting a mystical aura—where reality melts away and the extraordinary appears.

Portal of Lights

At the magical Art Reflow, we directly engaged with digital installations.  Here, paintings came alive with the touch of our single fingertip, with the masterpiece shifting fluidly, as if the paint is moving, constantly reshaping the artwork in a dynamic dance of creativity.

Infinite Blossoms, with light, color, and form coming together to create a dreamlike scene, was a magical experience where nature and art blend in perfect harmony. As the calming melody filled the air, elegance meets wonder as we were drawn into a world similar to Claude Monet’s Water Lilies (a series of about 250 Impressionist oil paintings of his water garden in Giverny, France, created during the last 31 years of his life), creating blooming masterpieces.

Color Sonata, an enchanting space where music and art come together in perfect harmony, we can play a piano to change or influence the colors and visuals of the digital artwork in real-time. When our fingers struck the piano keys, Russian painter Wassily Kandinsky’s paintings shifted before our eyes, with each chord and note breathing life into his work, crafting a magical, responsive experience where music and color merge seamlessly.

Infinite Blossoms

At the Cosmos Voyage section, we explored the infinite possibilities of art.  Here, we envisioned ourselves stepping inside and passing through a black hole, where not even light can’t escape, leaving behind the limits of time and space, and opening the door to a whole new dimension of art, discovering the infinite artistic possibilities.

Cosmic Voyage

At the timeless beauty of Eternal Touches, a lasting expression of art, light and shadow merged as we explored timeless works that have survived through ages. From classic brushstrokes to the bold energy of modern artists, their influence reaches across time and cultures, emerging to create a powerful, quiet moment.

At Drive Your Dream, an imaginative realm where dreams transform into reality, is a highlight of the museum’s immersive digital art. Experience.  Here, we unleashed our creativity on a blank digital canvas as we designed the car of our dreams. As soon as we pressed the scan button, our imaginative creation came to life on a large screen, becoming the heart of the captivating Village, thus creating lasting memories.

Drive Your Dream

At the Floor Canvas, projection mapping is blended with motion sensing technology as our footsteps rippled across digital water, transforming the walkway into a responsive canvas. At Cubist Portrait, another digital art installation, our portraits were fragmented and reassembled in a Cubist style digital image with the ability to interact with the different elements within it.

Floor Canvas

At Stream of Heaven, an advanced form of interactive storytelling, we “walked” on clouds in a digital heaven.  At the Stellar Chamber, we experienced the “weightless realm” though cutting-edge technology that creates multi-sensory experiences. Here, we entered a world of weightlessness where gravity disappears and the boundaries of time and space where blurred.

A: Museum was a mind-blowing, modern and interactive way to experience timeless classics, leaving us with unforgettable memories as we delved into an extraordinary world of artistic innovation.  This immersive media art exhibit revolutionizes art by merging the past, present, and future with cutting-edge technology, showcasing various art forms reimagined through modern technology and the boundless creativity of artists. Truly, a one-of-a-kind artistic experience that combined visual works, music, and interactive moments. More than just a venue—it’s an artistic odyssey through emotions and beauty.

A: Museum – Immersive Art Universe: 3rd Floor, Building B, Ayala Mall Manila Bay, Diosdado Macapagal Ave. cor. Aseana Ave., Paranaque City.  Mobile number: (0954) 987-4572.  E-mail: amuseumeternaltouch@gmail.com.  Open daily, 12 noon to 9 PM (last entry: 7 PM). Admission: Php899/pax.

MindSpark Museum (Paranaque City, Metro Manila)

Posted on by — Leave a reply

MindSpark Museum

The 9,000 square meter, immersive Mindspark Museum, opened last August 12, 2025 (with Education Secretary Sonny Angara as main guest), is a fun facility much like “Disneyland,” but for science geeks.  The country’s newest and largest interactive science exploratory museum, this “playground for the mind” was developed, curated and operated by the Philippine Amusement and Entertainment Corporation (PAEC).

Physics

Established in 2021, PAEC is regarded as the largest creator and operator of interactive and educational indoor attractions in the Philippines.

Kaleidoscope

The museum, aiming to serve as an “extension” of classrooms and provide a “simulated environment” for learners of all levels, features 100 interactive, STEM (science, technology, engineering and mathematics)-themed exhibits and 33 interactive science exploration-packed rooms and hands-on learning zones, for students out for some off-campus discoveries and adults with fond memories of frog dissections and other classroom experiments. 

Plants
Crustaceans and Cephalopods

Perfect for all ages to launch into scientific discovery, every corner of the museum was designed to spark curiosity, creativity and discovery. 

Human Anatomy
Rocks

Here, we immersed ourselves, up close, in the life cycle of insects, and step and peeked inside a working hospital laboratory, with real-world science, to witness real lab experiments.

Animals

We also walked inside a giant model of a human heart, lungs and intestine (bringing biology lessons to life); got up close with the secrets of large-scale animal anatomy and animated insect life cycle displays, learned how electricity and AI (artificial intelligence)-powered robotics work (including a replica of Optimus, a creation of the Elon Musk company Tesla) through fun hands-on exhibits; and experienced amazing optical illusions that challenged our senses. 

Optical Illusion
Laboratory

Other areas cover physics, chemistry, interactive bubble science experiments (where you can make and burst bubbles inside bubbles), the mysteries of outer space, fire safety, engineering design and gemology (where you can marvel, touch and examine real, shimmering gems, minerals and ancient stones).

Butterflies and Moths
Gemology

They offer tour programs for schools and other organizations.  Truly a unique blend of education and entertainment.

Artificial Intelligence
3D Printing

MindSpark Museum: 5th Floor, Building A, Ayala Mall Manila Bay, Diosdado Macapagal Ave. cor. Aseana Ave., Paranaque City.  Mobile number: (0915) 009-1031.  E-mail: mindsparkph@amusements,global.com. Open daily, 12 noon to 9 PM (last entry: 7 PM). Admission: Php899/pax.

Honda Celebration of Light (Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada)

Posted on by — Leave a reply

Honda Celebration of Lights

Grace, Jandy and I were lucky that our one-and-a half month long visit coincided with the 30th edition of the Honda Celebration of Light (formerly known as Benson & Hedges Symphony of Fire and The HSBC Celebration of Light), an annual international musical fireworks competition and one of Vancouver’s largest and most well-known festivals. Recognized as the largest and longest running off-shore fireworks competitions in the world, this multiple-day event has an estimated annual attendance of 1.4 million people.

People making their way, on foot, to Alexandra Park, English Bay Beach

The first “Symphony of Fire” was held from July 25 to August 5, 1990 with some the world’s best fireworks pyro technicians, from 3 counties, competing over 3 nights to present the best show. The event was last held in 2019 as in 2020, the competition was cancelled due to the COVID-19 pandemic in British Columbia.

Kyle, Bryan and Grace joining the crowd

This year’s much anticipated festival that embodies summer was held on July 23 (Saturday), with Japan’s Akariya Fireworks participating; on July 27 (Wednesday), with Canada’s award-winning Midnight Sun Fireworks participating; and July 30 (Saturday), with Spain’s Pirotecnia Zaragozana participating.

Mounted police patrolling at the corner of Beach Avenue and Denman Street

We attended the last mentioned.  Prior to the fireworks show, the Red Bull Air Show did a spectacular pre-show performance (happening on all three festival nights), with formation flyovers performed from the iconic Canadian Snowbird team, presented by Concord Pacific, at English Bay.

Alexandra Park slowing filling up with people

Joined by our grandson Kyle, we were to be met by my son-in law Bryan who booked an Uber to bring us to Alexandra Park.  We never got near there as road closures were already in effect from 7 PM in the West End, including Davie, Denman and Beach Avenue. Access roads into Kits Point were also closed from 6 PM.

The gazebo at Alexandra Park

Roads will only re-open once the crowds have dispersed and police have given their all clear at approximately 11 PM.  Instead, we were dropped off at Bidwell Street and walked over to a MacDonalds along Robson Street where we met with Bryan.

English Bay Beach already filled up

Together, the five of us joined others, on bikes, scooters or on foot, who were headed towards the festival site.  It was as if the entire city was moving in the same direction, with all roads lead to the English Bay. Policemen, on horseback, were patrolling the streets, scanning the crowd and seemingly looking for people with alcohol, making us feel very safe. As we got closer to the beach, we realized the magnitude of this event.

Upon reaching Alexandra Park, we chose a nice grassy spot unobstructed by trees, near the corner of Burnaby Street and Beach Avenue.  We came prepared as we brought along three portable folding seats, a beach mat, snacks and water.  The park was already slowly filling up.  There’s much more happening here than just fireworks as a whole family fun type of party atmosphere was happening, with and food carts, food vendors and concession stands were doing brisk business.

The Concord Lounge at English Bay

People and sunset watching was part of the fun too.  As it was early, we strolled along the English Bay Beach already seemingly packed with hundreds of thousands of people, many in swimming attire.  Never before had I seen so many people coming together.

Dinner with a view at Concord Lounge

The reserved seating of the Grandstand, the most popular of the festival’s ticketed venues for visitors, families or groups, offering elevated and direct sightlines to the fireworks barges, was also filled up.  Other reserved seating venues were the Concord Lounge at the Inukshuk Peninsula, overlooking English Bay, and the Scotiabank Lounge on the bathhouse roof in English Bay.

The Grandstand along English Bay

The pyro-musical performance can also be seen and heard from vantage points throughout Metro Vancouver such as Vanier Park at the edge of English Bay, Kitsilano Beach, the pedestrian sidewall at Burrard Bridge (standing room only), Dundarave Pier at the West end of West Vancouver seawall, Kits Point, Sunset Beach, Stanley Park and at sailboats and yachts on English Bay.

English Bay packed with yachts, speedboats and kayaks

Promptly, at 9 PM, the carefully designed and planned synchronized fireworks were launched from barges located in English Bay, regaling the crowd with a spectacular, 25-minute fireworks display, over the water, set to accompanying music so the colored lights seem like they’re dancing to the rhythm.

Sunset over English Bay

It was a spectacular show by the Spanish team, with brilliant firework shapes and colors we had never seen before. The mind blowing finale was one of the most incredible we have ever seen.  I can’t even imagine how much it cost so set up such a show.

Jandy and the author all set to watch the fireworks show at Alexandra Park

After the wonderful and free show, we packed up our chairs and joined the crowd making their way back home.  The frustration at trying to leave English Bay or the downtown core after the show was the only drawback.

We booked an Uber but had to walk a number of blocks to be picked up. Still, this attraction was well worth our time and the best part is that’s its absolutely FREE. The fireworks were excellent, the crowd was huge but well behaved, the overall atmosphere was friendly and cool and it was a fun event well worth going to when visiting Vancouver. It certainly helped that the weather was fine and warm.

The three teams representing their country and setting their colorful expressions to music were judged on the Sizing of the Show, Overall Design and Artistry, Synchronization, Originality of Effects, Quality of Soundtrack and Quality of Fireworks.

The winning team, announced on Tuesday, August 2, was the Canadian Team which delivered the show-stopping performance with a breathtaking display that pushed creative boundaries, according to a press release. It was a pleasant and memorable evening that made Vancouver look absolutely stunning. Over the course of the festival’s three nights, there were approximately 1.3 million attendees.

Honda Celebration of Light: Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada. Website: www.hondacelebrationoflight.com.

A Symphony of Lights (Hong Kong)

Posted on by — Leave a reply

A Symphony of Lights

A Symphony of Lights (Chinese: 幻彩詠香江, SoL)), a daily multimedia light and sound show in Hong Kong setting the harbor ablaze every night since January 17, 2004 (initially with walls of 18 buildings as a performance venue), is an orchestration of music, decoration lights, laser light displays and pyrotechnic fireworks conceptualized, created, and installed by LaserVision.

Victoria Harbor during daylight

According to the Guinness World Records, it is the world’s largest permanent light and sound show. Organized by the Hong Kong Tourism Board, the show is held, with good weather, every night at 8 pm Hong Kong Time (UTC+8) and lasts for around 14 minutes. Recognized as one of the world’s most spectacular light shows, it has become the signature icon for Hong Kong, showcasing the vibrancy and glamorous night vista of the city and symbolizing its dynamic energy and contrasting culture.

Promenade Deck

Since December 23, 2005, the Symphony of Lights extended to the Kowloon peninsula (including the Tsim Sha Tsui and Hung Hom). In December 2017, exciting, new elements plus a new musical score entwined with a vibrant and contemporary flavor, performed by the Hong Kong Philharmonic Orchestra, were introduced, taking on a new direction and transforming Hong Kong’s cityscape into a true symphony representing its charismatic rhythm.

Promenade Deck

Traditional Chinese flutes and bowed string instruments (such as the erhu), have been interwoven to create a truly distinctive sound, matching Hong Kong’s character of “East meets West.” In 2018, a second phase was launched, expanding the show to even more buildings.

Avenue of the Stars

Iconic buildings on both sides of the harbor, with a myriad of searchlights, lasers, LED screens and lighting, work in symphony and unite to form a harmonious canvas for a sensational multimedia extravaganza for the enjoyment of millions of tourists.  Placed together, this nightly spectacle transformed the Hong Kong skyline into an outdoor audiovisual feast  for the senses.

Victoria Harbor at night

SoL’s source of inspiration is the patterned symmetry of Hong Kong’s skyline, modern metropolitan design, forested mountain terrain and expanse of the harbor, offering a truly all-encompassing visual and sound scape of the its soul. Each participating building is joined into a harmonious and complete canvas by a symphonic approach, working effortlessly together to the beat in unison.

Victoria Harbor at night

The show comprises five major themes (“Awakenings,” “Energy,” “Heritage,” “Partnership” and “Celebration”), taking spectators on a unique journey celebrating the energy, spirit and diversity of Hong Kong.  “Awakening,” symbolizing the genesis and powerful growth of Hong Kong, begins with flashes of laser lights that give life to a nucleus of light-energy which gradually illuminates participating buildings using an array of dancing lights and rainbow color.

Star Ferry

“Energy,” signifying the vibrant energy of Hong Kong, is represented by the display of rising color patterns and the sweeping of the lasers and searchlights energetically across the night sky.  “Heritage,” symbolizing Hong Kong’s colorful heritage and rich cultural traditions, displays traditional lucky red and gold colors across buildings on both sides of the Harbor, complemented by the introduction of music using Chinese musical instruments.

Aqua Luna

“Partnership,” representing an illuminated connection with the opposite side, features a display, scanning across the Harbor, of sweeping searchlights and laser beams reaching out to symbolically connect the two sides of the Harbor into one greater and unified partnership. The exciting “Celebration,” signifying the celebration of the close partnership between the two sides of the Harbor and representing an even brighter future for Hong Kong, brings out a powerful rhythmic display of swirling, kaleidoscopic patterns of lights and beams dancing lively across the Harbor.

The best vantage points at the harbor front areas, where the Show’s music (to tune in to the music, download the show’s mobile app) and narration are broadcast live, are “Avenue of Stars” (on the Tsim Sha Tsui waterfront near Hong Kong Cultural Center), and on the waterfront promenade outside the Golden Bauhinia Square in Wan Chai.  Sightseeing ferries (i.e. Star Ferry, also check out  harbour cruises), running across the Victoria Harbor, are also good vantage points for watching the show.

Check out “Avenue of the Stars“

There are 47 participating buildings, on both sides of glamorous  Victoria Harbor, with different types of lighting effects included in the show, such as laser, searchlights, LED lights, simple lighting and projection lighting.

The 20 buildings (^ indicates fireworks are included on special days), from east to west, included in Hong Kong Island North Shore (including Wan Chai, Admiralty and Central) are:

The 23 buildings (^ indicates fireworks are included on special days) included in the Kowloon Peninsula are:

  • Star House (from December 23, 2005) – projection lighting
  • Hong Kong Cultural Centre^ (from December 23, 2005) – searchlights, projection lighting
  • One Peking^ (from December 23, 2005) – searchlights
  • Hong Kong Museum of Art^ (from December 23, 2005) – LED lights, searchlights, projection lighting
  • The Peninsula Hong Kong (from December 23, 2005) – simple lighting
  • Avenue of Stars (from December 23, 2005) – searchlights, LED lights
  • Hotel Panorama^ (from December 23, 2005) – projection lighting
  • New World Centre^ (from December 23, 2005) – searchlights (under redevelopment)
  • Tsim Sha Tsui Centre (from December 23, 2005) – LED lights, searchlights
  • Empire Centre^ (from December 23, 2005) – LED lights, searchlights
  • InterContinental Grand Stanford Hong Kong (from December 23, 2005) – simple lighting
  • Hong Kong Coliseum (from December 23, 2005) – LED lights, searchlights, projection lighting
  • The Gateway (with Gateway Tower 5 building combined) – Harbour City (from May 1,  2007) – LED lights, searchlights
  • Ocean Terminal – Harbour City (from June 26, 2007)- projection lighting
  • Langham Place (from June 26, 2007) – LED lights, searchlights
  • 26 Nathan Road^ (from May 1, 2007) – LED lights
  • K11 (from June 26, 2007)- laser
  • Harbourview Horizon All-Suite Hotel (from June 26, 2007)- LED lights
  • Harbourfront Horizon All-Suite Hotel (from June 26, 2007)- LED lights
  • EMax (from June 26, 2007) – searchlights
  • Megabox (from October 1, 2007) – LED lights, searchlights
  • International Commerce Centre (from May 1, 2012) – LED lights, laser
  • Kai Tak Cruise Terminal (from late 2014) – searchlights

The 4 buildings added in Hong Kong Island include:

  • AIA Central(from December 23, 2005) – LED lights
  • Bank of America Tower (from May 1, 2007) – LED lights
  • Standard Chartered Bank Building (from May 1, 2007) – LED lights
  • CCB Tower (from 2014) – LED lights, laser

Symphony of Lights: Buildings both on Hong Kong Island and in Kowloon.  8pm nightly. Tel:+852 2508 1234.  Website: www.tourism.gov.hk. Admission is free. No admission ticket is required.

The show may be suspended during days of mourning, the night of Earth Hour and in emergencies without prior notice. The narration is in English nn Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays; in Mandarin on Tuesdays, Thursdays and Saturdays, and Cantonese on Sundays. Special pyrotechnic fireworks, added (since New Year’s Eve of 2007) to the show on the rooftop of participating buildings on both sides of the harbor or on stages off at the Tsim Sha Tsui waterfront, are used during Chinese New Year, Christmas or on special events. When, on any given day, the Hong Kong Observatory issues Tropical Cyclone Warning Signal No.3 or above or a Red or Black Rainstorm Warning Signal at or after 3 pm, the show is suspended for that evening, even if the warning is subsequently rescinded prior to the 8 pm start time.

The mobile application of “A Symphony of Lights” can be downloaded from the following websites:

Spectators can also tune into the music of “A Symphony of Lights” through the dedicated mobile application. 

How to Get to Vantage Points:

  • Tsim Sha Tsui Promenade outside the Hong Kong Cultural Centre – MTR East Tsim Sha Tsui Station, Exit L6. Follow the signs and walk for around five minutes.
  • Golden Bauhinia Square – MTR Wan Chai Station, Exit A5. Follow the signs, take the skybridge to the Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre, and head for the Golden Bauhinia Square.

Tokyo DisneySea (Urayasu, Chiba Prefecture, Japan)

Posted on by — 1 Comment ↓

Tokyo DisneySea Entrance Plaza

Our second day in Tokyo was to be spent at the 71.22 hectare (176-acre) Tokyo DisneySea theme park at the Tokyo Disney Resort, just outside Tokyo. Getting there would entail us a number to Metro rides.

Resort Gateway Station (3)

The second theme park to open (September 4, 2001, at a cost of 335 billion yen) at the Tokyo Disney Resort and the ninth park of the twelve worldwide Disney theme parks to open, the distinctly different Tokyo DisneySea was the fastest theme park in the world to reach the milestone of 10 million guests, having done so in 307 days after its grand opening (the previous record-holder was Universal Studios Japan 338 days after its opening). Just last year, it attracted an estimated 14.651 million visitors, making it the fourth-most-visited theme park in the world.

Disney Resort Monorail

In 2002, for the concept, design, and construction of the theme park, Tokyo DisneySea won a Thea Award from the Themed Entertainment Association  presented at El Capitan Theater in Hollywood, California.

DisneySea AquaSphere

Tokyo DisneySea has an overall nautical exploration theme to it, with seven nautically themed areas or “ports of call” – Mediterranean Harbor, American Waterfront, Lost River Delta, Port Discovery, Mermaid Lagoon, Arabian Coast and Mysterious Island.

Statue of Mickey Mouse and Walt Disney at Entrance Plaza

Unlike neighboring Tokyo Disneyland, it provides a wider selection of table service restaurants and is one of the very few Disney parks that serve alcoholic beverages (from regular pints of beer to a mix of fun cocktails at kiosks to fine selections of liquor at the elegant Teddy Roosevelt Lounge).

After breakfast at our hotel, we walked over to the nearby Akasaka-Mitsuke Metro Station where we boarded the train for Tokyo Metro Marunouchi. Upon arrival, we transfer to the JR Keiyo Line for the JR Maihama Station and, from there, transferred to the Disney Resort Monorail from the Resort Gateway Station that is adjacent to JR Maihama Station. We reach Tokyo DisneySea at the Tokyo DisneySea Station, the third stop.  The whole trip, including transfers, took us about 45 mins.

Mediterranean Harbor

Within the entrance plaza is the DisneySea AquaSphere, a water fountain with a large model of the earth. Upon entering, the first “port of call” we encountered was the Mediterranean Harbor which is themed as an Italian port city. Unlike entry “lands” of other Disney parks, Mediterranean Harbor’s layout differs is a large “V” shape rather than a main street that leads to a hub (as found in Disneyland‘s Main Street, U.S.A. or Disney’s Hollywood Studios‘ Hollywood Boulevard”). Overlooking a sizeable marina, littered throughout the port are various shops and restaurants. Guests here can board and ride authentic Venetian gondolas at Palazzo Canals.

A Venetian-style canal

Tokyo DisneySea Hotel MiraCosta, built into the architecture of the port, serves as a full-scale reproduction of the various buildings of Portofino and Venice’s ports and serves as the southern berm (or border) of the park.

Magellan’s Restaurant

Bryan, Cheska and Kyle exploring a replica of an old sailing ship

Mediterranean Harbor also features Soaring: Fantastic Flight (a flying simulator) and “Fortress Explorations” (a large-scale interactive play area for guests that features exploration-themed activities and attractions). At night, there’s “Fantasmic!” show which premiered on April 28, 2011 as part of the park’s 10th anniversary celebration.

A bridge reminiscent of Ponte Vecchio, the old bridge in Florence, Italy

To the right of Mediterranean Harbor, the path leads to Mysterious Island, and to the left, the path leads to the American Waterfront, separated by a bridge reminiscent of Ponte Vecchio, the old bridge in Florence, Italy.

Mysterious Island

The Victorian-style Mysterious Island, the smallest of DisneySea’s “ports of call,” relies heavily on the storytelling of Jules Verne and, specifically, the mythology of the volcano fortress mentioned several times in the books called “Vulcania.”

Mount Prometheus

Its centerpiece and most prominent feature is the giant volcano Mount Prometheus and its ride employs technology similar to Epcot‘s Test Track.

While appearing to be a volcano on the water, Mysterious Island is not an island.  It is built into the side of Mount Prometheus, which is part of the show building for the two more popular attractions – “Journey to the Center of the Earth” (a thrill ride) and “20,000 Leagues Under the Sea” (a dark ride).

Mermaid Lagoon

The mostly indoors, whimsical Mermaid Lagoon, geared towards younger children, has a facade made to resemble King Triton’s palace, recreating the feeling of being underwater.

Interior of Mermaid Lagoon

It features seashell-inspired architecture and is home to the characters of The Little Mermaid. Attractions at this “port of call” include Flounder’s Flying Fish Coaster; Scuttle’s Scooters; Jumpin’ Jellyfish; Blowfish Balloon Race; The Whirlpool; all children’s rides; and Ariel’s Playground (a children’s playground and extensive walk-through attraction that recreates the various settings in the movie).

Mermaid Lagoon Theater

King Triton’s Concert

At Mermaid Lagoon Theater, we watched “King Triton’s Concert,” a musical show that recreate the story of The Little Mermaid and featured live actors, large-scale puppetry and Audio-Animatronics.

Arabian Coast

The Arabian Coast, themed after Aladdin, recreates an Arabian harbor combined with an “enchanted world from 1001 Arabian Nights.”

Sinbad’s Storybook Voyage

Our boat ride…..

Here, we tried out the  Sindbad’s Storybook Voyage, an indoor dark ride boat ride whose art direction seems to be, at first glance, a variation on “It’s a Small World” (with its own theme song, “Compass of your Heart,” composed by Alan Menken).

Jasmine’s Flying Carpets

Cheska, Kyle and Bryan at the Caravan Carousel

We also tried out the Jasmine’s Flying Carpets and Caravan Carousel, a double-decker carousel that holds over 190 passengers, and ate lunch at its Casbah Food Court.

Casbah Food Court

This “port of call’s” other attraction is the Magic Lamp Theater which houses a combined live-action/animatronic based magic show with a 3D movie featuring the Genie.

Lost River Delta

Lost River Delta, located at the back of the park, the dominant structure in this “port of call” is the ruins of an ancient Aztec pyramid in the Central American jungle which houses the dark thrill ride, Indiana Jones Adventure: Temple of the Crystal Skull. “Out of Shadowland,” a live theatrical show, follows Mei, a young girl lost in a world of shadows who finds confidence and strength through her sojourn there.

Indiana Jones Adventure – Temple of the Crystal Skull

Out of Shadowland

Also in the Lost River Delta is the DisneySea Steamer Line which transports guests from Mediterranean Harbor to Cape Cod and Lost River Delta.

DisneySea Steamer Line

Raging Spirits , an Intamin roller coaster which opened in 2005, is similar to Indiana Jones et le Temple du Péril at Disneyland Park in Paris).

Port Discovery

At Port Discovery, home to the fictional “Marine Life Institute,” Grace, Jandy, Bryan, Cheska and Kyle tried out Aquatopia, a boat ride that uses LPS tracking (the ‘trackless’ technology also used in Tokyo Disneyland’s Pooh’s Hunny Hunt to move and spin through a lagoon amid waterfalls and whirlpools.

Aquatopia

Jandy and Grace taking a spin around the lagoon

We also rode the relaxing and scenic  DisneySea Electric Railway, an overhead electric trolley, on a 2 ft., 6 in. (762 mm.) narrow gauge  track, that transported us the American Waterfront.

Disneysea Electric Railway

The author, Cheska, Kyle and Bryan on board the trolley

The Nemo & Friends SeaRider, opened on May 12, 2017, is based on Finding Nemo/Finding Dory which replaced the former StormRider simulator.

American Waterfront

The American Waterfront, representing the northeastern seaboard of the United States in the early 20th century, features two themed areas – an “Old Cape Cod” section, and a “New York Harbor” section.

Here, we rode some of the area’s “Big City Vehicles,” from the limousine to paddy wagon, delivery truck and more, which roam the streets of the area.

One of the “Big City Vehicles”

The Tower of Terror, an elaborately themed free-fall E-ticket ride, is  the port’s most popular attraction. Its Broadway-themed theater, which plays the show “Big Band Beat,” features 1940s-style swing jazz performed by a 12-piece band, as well as 20 singers/dancers.

SS Columbia

This “port of call,” accessible by the aforementioned DisneySea Electric Railway from nearby Port Discovery, is dominated by the SS Columbia, a large passenger ship which is usually the site for various shows and events. It houses a restaurant and lounge.

Turtle Talk

Here, we watched a special theater-style attraction called Turtle Talk where you can ask questions (though in Japanese) in real time to Crush, the 153-year-old surfer-dude turtle from Finding Nemo and Finding Dory.

Toyville Trolley Park

Toy Story Mania, in a new area called Toyville Trolley Park, is easily one of the most popular attractions in the park.  An interactive 4-D theme park attraction, it opened on July 9, 2012.  Inspired by Disney Pixar’s Toy Story, guests wore 3-D glasses while riding spinning vehicles that travel through virtual environments based on classic carnival games. There are shooters on the vehicles to let guests to shoot targets in those 3-D games like “egg toss” and “balloon pop”.

Toy Story Mania

Tokyo DisneySea: Urayasu, Chiba Prefecture, Japan. Open daily, typically from 8 AM to 10 PM, admission ends one hour before closing. Admission: 7,500 yen.  For a detailed map of Tokyo DisneySea, check out their website.