tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-227861132024-03-10T17:04:44.493+08:00You Get What You Give ...Food.Arts.Travel (F.A.T)wmwhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02914331846574692774noreply@blogger.comBlogger820125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-22786113.post-8309171822661905012017-07-17T02:31:00.000+08:002017-07-17T08:48:49.762+08:00Travel Post - Thanh Cao Lầu Hoi An, Vietnam - Part 14I shall not give up! Here I am back again with another post ...still on Hoi An. Yes, I'm still not done with it yet. As mentioned before when I first started blogging on Hoi An, it is one of my fave places that I have visited (apart from Spain and of course...San Francisco). Yes, so much so, that I just wanted to start blogging again just so that I can upload the travel pics taken (it would be such a waste to keep them only on a hard disk!).<br />
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Okay...after more than 6 months, I'm back with a quick post of the national noodles of Hoi An; Cao Lau! Having been not too impressed with the bowl we had <a href="http://ugwug.blogspot.my/2016/07/travel-post-nuong-nieu-bbq-hoi-vietnam.html#more" target="_blank">earlier</a>, TT did some internet research and we made it a point to have Cao Lau at Thanh Cao Lầu. Thank goodness for TT's impeccable sense of direction, we walked and found the place (we actually walked to wherever during our stay in Hoi An). It is a rather inconspicuous looking place, we actually walked passed it and doubled back and finally saw the signage (which is an old looking one and isn't lit.. Look at the pic!). The place seems more like either a house or an auto workshop and had several tables placed on the front porch. The stall takes up a small area for food preparation.<br />
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We gave our order, with hand signals for two bowls and promptly sat down. The place had a steady stream of customers; mostly locals, coming in for dinner and this made us hopeful. Sure enough, when our noodles arrived, it definitely looks more enticing that our first encounter with Cao Lầu earlier. Having said that, not all will appreciate this noodles as in the case of different strokes for different folks.<br />
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<span style="text-align: start;">The texture of the noodles was better - it was al dente and the soya pork broth sauce was more flavourful . Each bite was a tasty crunch of vegetables and noodles in harmony. The slices of pork was also tastier as they had drizzled fried shallot oil over it. </span></div>
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It was definitely more pleasing to the palate. At least this was a better experience and a more noteworthy one. Glad that we managed to squeeze in a visit to Thanh Cao Lầu. So, if you are seeking to try out Hoi An's national noodles, make it a point to look for this place. You will also find stalls selling this noodles all across Hoi An town, even along the riverside which you can try out too for a different eating experience if you wish.<br />
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A night stall at Ancient Town<br />
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Thanh Cao Lầu<br />
26 Thái Phiên<br />
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To be continued ... hang in there!<br />
<br />wmwhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02914331846574692774noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-22786113.post-70143605743572806442017-01-09T08:40:00.000+08:002017-01-12T08:35:38.945+08:00Travel Post - Sau Restaurant @ An Bang Beach, Hoi An, Vietnam - Part 13It's a brand new year and I'm still here, blogging (trying to blog). Let's continue with my Hoi An trip back in 2016! Hahaha...<br />
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Though we had arrived in Da Nang, we had gone straight to Hoi An as we were told that there were more things to do and see in Hoi An. Thinking that we would give the beach in Da Nang a miss, we arrived in Hoi An and found out that there is actually a beach here too. Since our lovely hotel, Royal Riverside Hotel (more on this hotel in another post) provided free shuttle bus rides to An Bang Beach, we made it a point to drop by the beach and have lunch there.</div>
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<a name='more'></a>It was a breezy afternoon albeit a sunny one. I like An Bang Beach...relatively clean and with lots of lounge chairs and huts to sit at with certain terms and condition that you get drinks or food from the food and beverage operators located up on the slope. We had a plan..grab lunch at one of the many restaurants and then have drinks on the clean sandy beach after. Trouble was,,,,which? After walking up and down the row of restaurants, we decided on Sau Restaurant. We sat ourselves at one of the tables facing the beach front. It was shaded and coupled with the cool breeze, we sat back, relaxed and enjoyed the food.<br />
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The clams, prawns and squid were all fresh and of the three, I absolutely loved the grilled squid. It was cooked spot on and was one of the most aromatic and tasty grilled squid I have eaten. </div>
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Or maybe...maybe it was just the lovely beach surroundings and strong cool breeze that gave this meal an added oomph which we really enjoyed.</div>
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Whatever it was, I was pleasantly surprised by the food and An Bang Beach. Later, with drinks on the beach itself, I drifted off to sleep to the sound of the waves and woke up only because it was time to catch the ride back to our hotel.</div>
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Ahhhhh...such bliss!</div>
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To Be Continued ...</div>
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wmwhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02914331846574692774noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-22786113.post-65732190650113535262016-09-21T08:50:00.000+08:002016-09-21T08:50:05.971+08:00Travel Post - Lanterns! Lanterns! Lanterns! Hoi An, Vietnam - Part 12Been tied up with project work and yes!....trying to keep my own promise to blog somehow. Today's post will be pics, pics and pics. Hoi An and its charms has captivated me enough to warrant another trip in the near future hopefully, the simplicity of it all; the great food adventure, the beauty of the place and its people. One of the things that never fails to draw my attention ?<br />
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The lanterns here in Hoi An. They are everywhere! Hung in trees, lining the streets, as common lights in shops...well really,...everywhere. Of course, shops selling the lanterns are aplenty and they come in all shapes, colours and sizes!</div>
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We even went for a short "make-a-lantern" course at one of the shops for USD6 (I forgot the name of the shop but it's around the corner from Guso Cafe) where we got to make and bring home our very own lantern! There are more expensive courses around, do check out the different prices if you are keen on signing up. Some are more comprehensive and of longer duration.
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One can even get them to specially make a lantern of your desired design, for a relatively reasonable price. If you love such lanterns, you are totally spoilt for choice here in Hoi An and might just find yourself buying more than just one or two. Stay strong! :o)</div>
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To Be Continued ...</div>
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wmwhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02914331846574692774noreply@blogger.com0Hội An, Quang Nam Province, Vietnam15.8800584 108.338046915.6344199 108.0139504 16.125696899999998 108.66214339999999tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-22786113.post-16514657536005845742016-08-26T08:53:00.000+08:002016-09-19T00:12:36.546+08:00Travel Post - Coffee & Desserts in Hoi An, Vietnam - Part 11Ahhh... Jr is off to Danang/Hoi An next Monday and I thought I would squeeze in another post. She has been taking notes from my previous posts on what to eat in Hoi An. So, here's another rather essential post; coffee! TT and I drank coffee every day while we were there, drinking on two occasions ... day and night! Hahaha... I do like Vietnamese coffee and was delighted to be surrounded by cafes where ever we walked.<br />
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Coffee Coffee everrywhere!</div>
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<span style="text-align: start;">While we did try out several places, we kept going back to two places. One was Guso Cafe, a local cafe with low stools and it served one of the better Cafe Sua Da (ice coffee with condensed milk) and the other is at Hoa Champa Coffee Craft Shop where one can get a good Cafe Sua Nong (hot coffee with condensed milk)</span></div>
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Hoa Champa Coffee Craft Shop located at 49 Phan Chau Trinh</div>
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While we did try the drip coffee, I kinda stuck to my ice and hot coffee with condensed milk. Aromatic and strong, sweet and bitter! I supposed the other factors - being a tourist, foreign and interesting surroundings, the coffee beans of course and the lovely cool weather, all these added to a great coffee experience in Hoi An. I am no coffee aficionado, I drink coffee and if it hits the spot for me, it's all gooooooooodddd....</div>
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Coffee stop at Faifo Coffee, one of the more upscale coffee places in Ancient Town.</div>
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The lovely Cafe Sua Nong at Hoa Champa Coffee Craft Shop where we drank by the pavement.</div>
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Guso Cafe, located at 10 Phan Chu Trinh serves one of the cheapest and nicest Cafe Sua Da. This seems to be where the locals chill (we seem to be the only tourists there each time we were there). We stumbled upon it when we were not looking for coffee actually but decided to try it out as the locals seem very laid back and comfortable here and this attracted us. </div>
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Meanwhile back home...the only thing close to this same experience in Malaysia is actually the Kopi found at Kopitime Cafe (I usually go the the outlet in Tropicana City Mall). One of my fave coffee stop! Try it....</div>
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And if coffee isn't enough, how about trying Banh Flan ... Caramel Flan (with coffee!). We came upon this friendly auntie with a push cart stall by the roadside one sunny but cool afternoon and was curious enough to stop and try it out.</div>
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She put her Non La onto my head and caught me by surprise. The iconic Vietnamese conical hat gave me some reprieve from the glare and I enjoyed eating the flan; sitting on a tiny stool on the five foot way.</div>
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Simple and nice...we met Auntie Flan a second time the next day when she was pushing her cart around in Ancient Town and we had another round! So try and look out for her stall ...She could be anywhere!<br />
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wmwhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02914331846574692774noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-22786113.post-77214374116739712332016-08-15T09:13:00.000+08:002016-08-15T12:21:40.980+08:00Travel Post - Banh Mi Phuong, Hoi An, Vietnam - Part 10As you would have read from my previous post of my eating adventures in Hoi An, Banh Mi was a daily feature in our meals during our entire stay in Hoi An. Apart from this daily Banh Mi stop <a href="http://ugwug.blogspot.my/2016/05/travel-post-banh-mi-delight-in-hoi.html" target="_blank">HERE</a> , we went to the ever famous Banh Mi Phuong too (famous since it was "endorsed" by Anthony Bourdain!).<br />
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<span style="text-align: left;">Yes, get in line! There's always a line when we were there on two occasions but fortunately the line moves quick. We had stood in line the first time we got there only to find out that it's for take-away orders. </span></div>
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Well, if we spoke their language, we could have surely customize our sandwich with whatever we want or point at some of the ingredients on display along as one is lining up.</div>
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For those eating in, we can head right into the restaurant and order from the menu. The menu had English description of the different type of sandwich filling that you can choose. We opted for Banh Mi Thap Cam which is a mix of EVERYTHING with a fried egg! </div>
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What is everthing ? We don't exactly know, hahahaha....Pork? Pate? Beef? Chicken? Fish? All sorts of charcuterie? But one thing we do know...it's really tasty and bursting with flavours wrapped by the crispy baguette, complete with their secret sauce. All this goodness for just VND25,000 (USD1.25/RM5). Err...if I had to live on Banh Mi sandwiches for the rest of my life in Hoi An, I would. </div>
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We of course just have to have more than one, resistance was futile! TT and I ordered one more to share, this time with Roast Pork filling....it was nice but the one with EVERYTHING in it takes pole position. So, on our second visit here, we ordered the Banh Mi Thap Cam again.</div>
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The Banh Mi sandwich in Hoi An is a great reason to visit Hoi An itself. Yes, it's that good! I had tried sandwiches in Hanoi but it didn't leave any lasting impressions (well, except that it was also at more than half the price for the ones we pay in Malaysia) and the ones in San Francisco's <a href="http://ugwug.blogspot.my/2009/07/little-paris-on-stockton-san-francisco.html" target="_blank">Little Paris</a> (which is good due to the pickled radish and flavourful BBQ meat and that is at about USD4 each the last time I had it). Ahhh....Banh Mi, Banh Mi...Hoi An, Hoi An....I will be back again, my love! Wait for me! Hahaha....</div>
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Banh Mi Phuong</div>
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2B Pham Chau Trinh Street</div>
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Hoi An, Quang Nam, Vietnam</div>
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To Be Continued .....</div>
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wmwhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02914331846574692774noreply@blogger.com0Hội An, Quang Nam Province, Vietnam15.8800584 108.338046915.6357404 108.0153234 16.1243764 108.66077039999999tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-22786113.post-19191755571965564442016-07-23T08:25:00.000+08:002016-07-23T08:25:00.505+08:00Travel Post - White Rose , Hoi An, Vietnam - Part 9"White Rose (Banh Bao Banh Vac), a type of shrimp dumpling made from translucent white dough bunched up to look like a rose.<br />
The recipe for these dumplings is a secret, held by one family in Hoi An who supplies all the restaurants. At <b>533, Hai Ba Trung Street</b>, Tran Tuan Ngai is a third generation secret keeper of the traditional white rose recipe".<br />
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We read these words on the printed menu with much excitement. We had planned to make a stop at Lo Banh Bao Banh Vac (White Rose Restaurant), to have a taste of the famous white rose. There are only two items on the menu at this shop, the other being Hoi An Pizza (VND100,000/USD5/ RM20) or Fried Wonton (Hoanh Thanh Chien) "Resembling tortillas due to their large size, these crispy wontons are filled with shrimp and topped with a tomato roulade".<br />
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We opted for just an order of the White Rose (VND70,000/USD3.50/ RM14) as we had to leave room for more food since our food quest was still in the early stage for the day!<br />
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It did look rather pretty, I could see why they call it White Rose. Biting into one after dipping it into the light tangy dip, I wasn't particularly awed by the taste but was more intrigued with what was inside. Apart from the shrimp, I couldn't pin the ingredients down. It was similar to "gau chi" - turnip with dried shrimps translucent skin dumpling back in Malaysia and there's even a variety with chives too. In my opinion, I rate the Malaysian "gau chi" better in taste and the White Rose better in looks! However, having said that... one must try the White Rose when in Hoi An.. just because! Then you can say "I ate a White Rose!".<br />
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I did like the fact that there were generous toppings of fried shallot and garlic which are an essential part of this dish. Well, it was great to find out how exactly Hoi An's White Rose tastes like since it's a Hoi An famous "must eat" food item. White Rose - checked! Next!<br />
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<br />wmwhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02914331846574692774noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-22786113.post-82997084665964838252016-07-01T23:09:00.000+08:002016-07-01T23:09:05.382+08:00Travel Post - Nuong Nieu BBQ Hoi An, Vietnam - Part 8A quick short post ... was busy filling up the income tax form! Hahaha... During one of the few nights when we visited the night market, we wandered around looking for a dinner spot. We came across Nuong Nieu, a no frills BBQ joint. It was quite packed with locals and we thought that we should eat where the locals eat! Sitting by the sidewalk, with a little table and on little chairs, a small charcoal grill was placed beside us. We ordered from a simple picture menu - bacon, prawns, eggplant and we could not resist ordering our first bowl of Cao Lau from the stall next door.<br />
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Good decision to nurse the stomach first with the noodles as the BBQ would need some time and work to get the food cooked!. Having no basis of comparison for the Cao Lau (noodles made with rice flour, water and ASHES from firewood, see pic of fresh Cao Lau from my visit to the market earlier <a href="http://ugwug.blogspot.my/2016/06/travel-post-thuan-tinh-cooking-tour-in.html#more" target="_blank">HERE</a>) , I ate the noodles with a bit of apprehension for the fact that I was eating something with ashes! We found the noodles alright, no wow factor to it. The noodles has tiny grey specks (presumably the ashes) and is served with slices of pork, lots of vegetables and small deep fried wantan skin with a little bit of soya pork broth. As we expected more satisfaction from the national dish of Hoi An, TT made it a point to lead us to another spot later on in the trip, hopefully for a delicious bowl of Cao Lau, more on that trip in another post! :o)<br />
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By now, we got busy with the BBQ. It was rather fun cooking the stuff and at times challenging as we try not to let the bacon slip through the grill! Hahaha...,The prawns were fresh and nice and I loved the simple grilled eggplant. I think the meal was enjoyable more so because of the nice cool weather and the rather festive ambiance at the restaurant. After all, we were being tourists and had no cares in the world when we are on a holiday!<br />
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So, if you ever find yourself in Hoi An, drop by Nuong Nieu BBQ for a simple local BBQ experience. I am sure you will enjoy it like we did.</div>
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wmwhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02914331846574692774noreply@blogger.com0Hội An, Quang Nam Province, Vietnam15.8800584 108.338046915.6357404 108.0153234 16.1243764 108.66077039999999tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-22786113.post-39246017813247990812016-06-10T08:31:00.000+08:002016-06-10T08:31:01.095+08:00Travel Post - Morning Market in Hoi An, Vietnam - Part 7For today's post, I shall just continue with some of the other pics I took at the busy morning market which a really interesting trip. The photos will give you an idea how it was, but nothing like being there in person, smack in the middle of it all! In other words - have a holiday in Hoi An!<br />
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Maximising space! I was in awe at the amount of things he was transporting on his bike!</div>
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These are some sort of really tiny clams for sale at one of the stalls...blanched and eaten just like that! Must have a lot of patience, hahaha...</div>
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That's all folks for this post! It's Friday! Happy Friday and have a great weekend ...</div>
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To Be Continued ... more from Hoi An</div>
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wmwhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02914331846574692774noreply@blogger.com0Hội An, Quang Nam Province, Vietnam15.8800584 108.338046915.6357404 108.0153234 16.1243764 108.66077039999999tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-22786113.post-76241631180092682502016-06-03T08:10:00.000+08:002016-06-03T11:17:01.185+08:00Travel Post - Thuan Tinh Cooking Tour in Hoi An, Vietnam - Part 6I had very much wanted to keep to my blogging schedule but the sudden death of my laptop derailed my plans. But yes, now I am back, after a quick and rather painless mournful period as my laptop was resurrected! It lives! Hahaha...<br />
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So, what else can one do in Hoi An apart from taking in the lovely scenery and eating the local food? How about enrolling in a cooking class for a change? TT came across this website and sent me the link to <a href="http://www.cooking-tour.com/" target="_blank">Thuan Tinh Island Cooking Tour</a>. Priced at USD34, the tour consisted of pick up from Hotel, trip to the morning market, coach ride and then a boat ride to the island for the cooking action to begin. It was one of the more interesting cooking class that we came across and the plus factor was that they teach only a maximum of 10 participants and 4 dishes (most of the others only taught 3).<br />
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So, off we went to the morning market! The morning market is really amazing! Hustle and bustle of people everywhere, our senses were working overtime...the vivid colours of the scene around us, the noise of people chattering, the smell of raw greens, spices and meat permeated the air. You will find quite a number of Caucasians in the sea of Asians, as these are the very same Caucasians who are making a pit stop here as part of the cooking tour. Well, most of them were as we could identify them by the shopping basket given to us participants to carry the purchased ingredients. Hahaha... Our guide took us around the stalls and picked up all the ingredients needed for us to cook with and each of us helped out to carry the items boiught.<br />
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Our guide telling us stories about crustaceans<br />
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Buying fresh noodles for our Beef Pho later on. The noodles in the foreground is Cao Lau, One has got to try this as Cao Lau is only found in Hoi An. I will be blogging about Cao Lau later - this noodles is made with rice flour, water and ashes from firewood (yup, you read that correctly, ASHES!) Meanwhile, read more about it <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Cao_l%E1%BA%A7u" target="_blank">HERE</a>. <br />
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When we were done at the market, we got onto a small coach and were whisked off to a tiny jetty where we boarded a boat and then a small boat that took us to Thuan Tinh Island.<br />
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We arrived on the island shortly after. It's a rather big open area with several work stations. Each station is managed by a chef (our guide was the chef too!), running a class for the ten of us. She would cook the dish first and we would gather around her as she tells us the steps involved. We would then scurry back to our own little stove and start with our dishes. First up was to boil the soup for the Beef Pho as that needed a good 2.5 hours at least. This way, the soup for the Pho would be ready by the time we were done with the last dish.</div>
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We worked on the second dish almost immediately...Being kept busy throughout, we didn't really have time to take a lot of photos. Of course, I took photos of the food I cooked and how I plated them. These were also, of course my food for lunch that day :o)</div>
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So, the soup for the Pho was finally ready towards the end of the cooking class!</div>
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Both TT and I really enjoyed the whole Thuan Tinh Cooking Tour experience. I would recommend this to anyone who is keen on signing up for a cooking class while in Hoi An. It's informative, fun and most of all, reasonably priced.</div>
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To Be Continued ... (more scenes from the morning market!)</div>
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wmwhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02914331846574692774noreply@blogger.com0Hội An, Quang Nam Province, Vietnam15.8800584 108.338046915.6357404 108.0153234 16.1243764 108.66077039999999tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-22786113.post-12803859681604099092016-05-15T08:36:00.000+08:002016-05-15T08:36:02.239+08:00Travel Post - Banh Mi Delight in Hoi An, Vietnam - Part 5 While in Hoi An, most of us would look forward to eating the local bread delight, Banh Mi. Since Anthony Bourdain endorsed Banh Mi Phuong in one of his No Reservations episode, it was definitely on the "must eat" list. However, the visit was delayed when we came across a particular Banh Mi stall while we were walking around. Located in front of the Quang Nam Tourism Promotion and Information Centre at 51 Phan Chu Trinh Street, we observed that this stall had a steady stream of customers and it piqued our interest enough to give it a try. For the lack of communication skill, we just ordered two (once for each of us) and didn't ask for a specific variation or what was inside. We promptly sat down on the plastic stools and gleefully waited while relishing the thought of having the satisfaction; eating our first Banh Mi since arriving in Hoi An.<br />
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At just 20,000 VND (RM4 or USD1), the Vietnamese Sandwich really satisfied our palate. It was a myriad of taste with the combination of meat and pate; sauces and condiments, ensembled within the baguette with generous garnishing of greens.<br />
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Ask the friendly folks to add green chili into the sandwich. It will definitely kick things up a few notches. WARNING : Approach with caution! SPICY!</div>
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The baguette bread were lightly toasted in a makeshift rack over a bed of charcoal and had the most satisfying crunch ever when we bit into it. Crispy on the outside and airy on the inside!<br />
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Just look at this! Sigh....I miss having the Banh Mi in Hoi An! (P.S. spot the green chili bits!)<br />
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Remember to look out for this stall when you're in Hoi An. It's a stall that brings happiness. Hahahaha.... We also found happiness at Banh Mi Phoung, but that's another story, another post ;o)<br />
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To be continued ...<br />
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<br />wmwhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02914331846574692774noreply@blogger.com0tp. Hội An, Quảng Nam, Vietnam15.8800584 108.338046915.6357404 108.0153234 16.1243764 108.66077039999999tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-22786113.post-51540627006870790952016-04-27T08:46:00.000+08:002016-04-27T08:46:01.621+08:00Travel Post - Hoi An, Vietnam - Part 4Walking around Hoi An, there were many random pics that I took. Once again, loading them onto Facebook would be easier but I would like to have them on my blog with it's own link for easy search and access. If you are looking at my posts on your mobile phone, make it a point to have a look at them on your laptop/desktop computer as the photos are meant to be LARGE, rather than ones that fit onto a 6 inch screen display :o).<br />
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Anyway, for today's post I will just post some of the many random pics here. Last week have been rather hectic for me and I told myself that I must at least put up 4 posts a month! Hahaha...<br />
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As I look back on these photos, I reminisce about Hoi An all over again and wished I was still enjoying myself in there but unfortunately, reality beckoned and I am back here, putting up pics online; within the four walls of my little abode. Well, it's mid-week ... and I can't wait for the weekend to come!<br />
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Enjoy the long weekend ahead! Happy Labour Day folks!<br />
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<script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script>wmwhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02914331846574692774noreply@blogger.com0tp. Hội An, Quảng Nam, Vietnam15.8800584 108.338046915.6357404 108.0153234 16.1243764 108.66077039999999tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-22786113.post-39505628978352944132016-04-18T01:47:00.000+08:002016-04-18T01:50:50.279+08:00Travel Post - Mr Mot's Herbal Drink, Hoi An, Vietnam - Part Three Now, I must say that we really did like walking around Old Town (or Ancient Town). So much so, we had a regular pit stop at a particular stall during the four days we were there.<br />
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<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/ugwug/26485389055/in/dateposted-public/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" title="Mr MOT's Herbal Drink"><img alt="Mr MOT's Herbal Drink" height="800" src="https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1468/26485389055_bbbaa2e434_c.jpg" width="530" /></a></div>
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This stall was just so inviting...We call the vendor, Mr Mot (not really knowing his name!) as MOT is written on the board. With flowers,the lanterns and the beautiful tree nearby his stall, Mr Mot's stall is picture-postcard perfect!</div>
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Apart from all that prettiness, it also helps that Mr Mot's traditional herbal drink is refreshing and priced at 10,000VND/RM2/USD0.50 a cup! His stall is one of the cleanest that I have come across during my trip there.</div>
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What Mr Mot's Hoi An Traditional Herbal Drink is made of ... can you identify the ingredients? It's his own concocted herbal drink!</div>
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RM2 of a beautiful cup of refreshing goodness. You have got to try it when you come across his stall. It's located near shop number 150 on Tran Phu street. Check out Mr Mot's Facebook page <a href="https://www.facebook.com/mothoian" target="_blank">HERE</a>.</div>
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<script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script>wmwhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02914331846574692774noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-22786113.post-25571909220885374432016-04-13T08:53:00.000+08:002016-04-14T00:38:20.746+08:00Travel Post - Hoi An, Vietnam - Part TwoOne of the most important thing to enjoying one self in Hoi An is to actually throw caution to the wind when it comes to eating. TT and I ate at sidewalks often, trying the local food and snacks during the 5 day/4 night stay there. Staying at a hotel at a convenient location also makes a lot of difference too. I booked the accommodation via <a href="https://www.expedia.com.my/" target="_blank">Expedia</a>. It's been my go-to site for travel arrangements lately as I find it fast, easy and the prices competitive. Plus with one of my previous experience of a cancelled refundable booking (due to my own change in plans), I was pleasantly surprised when my refund was credited back after two days to my credit card account. That kinda sealed my trust in Expedia. <br />
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While being the last hotel located along the river (err.. not exactly a river), I still picked <a href="http://www.royalriversidehoian.com/#!OutHotel/Our-Hotel.mpx" target="_blank">Royal Riverside Hotel</a> in terms of best value, pricing, amenities and location. It's really a nice hotel with great service and hospitality to boot. I highly recommend this hotel to anyone who is keen on visiting Hoi An. The staff are courteous and very helpful. Upon checking in, Nguyen, was ever ready to receive us with a welcome drink and promptly sat us down (while we wait to check in as we had arrived two hours ahead). She then handed us a map and showed us the location of places of interest and how to get around to the different places. Plus I really enjoyed the daily free breakfast given and there's free wi-fi too. There's even a free shuttle van to take us to the beach area (An Bang Beach..more on that later). We were only 10 minutes on foot away from Old Town. Arriving on the first day, we decided to take it easy and just explore Old Town before we decided whether we should sign up for some local tours.<br />
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The "Occupied" Staff who kept her eyes and ears glued to her phone! The ladies at the back were busy with the mackerels.<br />
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<span style="text-align: start;">Of course, we needed lunch first! By the time we were ready to go out after cleaning up, it was about 2pm (which is 3pm Malaysian time!). We walked towards Old Town but we got distracted by some people and their activities on the opposite street nearby and decided to head over there to take a look. We soon stumbled across a shop, which horrors of horrors to me, had the FISH written on the side of the signboard. Hahaha...well, I am not a fan of fish but TT is and we were hungry. Fortunately, I saw a dish that mentioned shrimp ball! Yay! I could eat that! Hahaha.....So, we sat down and ordered in a sort of Vietnam-fied English (TT is good at that... Kekeke!) and hand gestures to the pots and pans and I prayed for the best!</span></div>
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TT's sweet dream, my nightmare! A wokful of mackerels which is the main ingredient for her Câ Thu order of noodles.</div>
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Another big pot of cabbage and unidentifiable ingredients.</div>
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My order arrived, I took some pics and quickly checked whether there were any fish meat in my order of <span style="text-align: center;">Cha Tôm</span>. Thankfully, none. I was presently surprised...the noodles had generous portions of shrimp balls and a large piece of pumpkin along with cabbage and bamboo shoots. The soup was tangy, slightly sweet and sour. Yay! It was delicious! Either that or I was just ravenous by then. Well, TT enjoyed her noodles too. I forgot to take a pic of her noodles as I was too hungry :o).</div>
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Cha Tôm (20,000 VND/RM4/USD1) ... a delightful bowl of noodles, best eaten with the home made chili or one can try adding the additional hot green chili...it's hotter than the red ones (unlike the vice versa back home in Malaysia!).</div>
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Having filled our tummy ... somewhat, we continued exploring the area and soon we came across a stall along the five foot way. We really had no idea what the lady was frying but we were really curious about it and decided to order. </div>
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The lady was frying up some Banh Cân (Mini Pancakes) as I found out later after doing a search of the word written on a board nearby.</div>
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The fried batter was yummy; eaten with lettuce and a dash of spicy vinegar., The mini pancakes were shells and then had quail eggs added to it. We pointed and asked for several empty "shells" to eat thinking they were of different ingredients! Hahaha...for three empty shells and three mini pancakes with quail eggs, we paid 40,000 VND/RM8/USD2 which we found to be expensive for a street food and some empty flour "shells"! </div>
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<span style="text-align: left;">NOTE : We found out that some street vendors here do charge higher when it comes to tourists. A lot of the street stalls do not display the price of their food. So we learnt to either kinda hang around and see how much the locals pay for their order or we ask first. For this stall, we made the mistake of ordering, eating and then only we asked! So remember, ask or observe how much the local pay for it first!</span></div>
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<script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script>wmwhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02914331846574692774noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-22786113.post-67921228623403294092016-04-08T08:46:00.000+08:002016-04-08T23:44:01.412+08:00Travel Post - Hoi An, Vietnam - Part OneIt has been awhile since I last blogged. However, two recent trips I did in March reminded me of the many past trips that have gone unposted and with memories (becoming more vague in time) stored in mind and on saved folders in the computer hard disk. It seems such a shame that many eats and trips have gone unrecorded, losing out to the ever convenient Facebook posting. To you readers, who are reading this now, I am back and a heartfelt thank you for still visiting this blog. I will attempt to highlight (slowly but surely) all the past trips that have come and gone (I think dating back to 2010!) as a means of having a place in cyberspace for it to be published online. And maybe....maybe I will even blog about my food adventures too like I used to. <br />
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For now, I intend to keep my blog post short, with parts if needed so as to not bore myself and you readers. More so for myself, so that I won't feel that it's a chore to blog as to what had happened to me at some point in time. I apologise to my blog; neglected and almost forgotten. You had in the past brought me so much joy and even friendship with strangers who have become good friends in time. I am so sorry...and I do hope to redeem myself.<br />
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So, let's start off with my most recent trip ... Hoi An, Vietnam. I have previously been to Hanoi <a href="http://ugwug.blogspot.my/2007/12/hot-hanoi-part-6-final.html" target="_blank">back in 2007</a> and it was enjoyable. 9 years later, I find myself in Hoi An and enjoying every single minute of it. Most of the time was spent walking around <a href="http://www.vietnam-guide.com/hoi-an/hoi-an-old-town.htm" target="_blank">Old Town</a> (120,000 VND/USD6 for entry ticket valid for the whole duration of my 5 days there) and practically anywhere else, enjoying the sights and sounds of this enchanting place. Being a UNESCO World Heritage Site, it was like being immersed in a large piece of living history. <br />
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Upon entering Old Town, one of the first things that you will see is the Japanese Bridge.</div>
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The Japanese Bridge and Old Town itself serve as a favourite wedding photoshoot location to many couples.</div>
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The inner parts of the Japanese Bridge; dark corners lit with lanterns (an iconic object seen aplenty around Hoi An)</div>
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Read more about the Japanese Bridge <a href="http://www.inhoian.com/japanese-bridge/" target="_blank">HERE</a></div>
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wmwhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02914331846574692774noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-22786113.post-51900230481549071482015-05-07T02:57:00.000+08:002016-04-08T10:10:38.975+08:00Malaysia's New HTC Flagship Device, Launch of HTC One M9+ <div>
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#HTCOneM9Plus</div>
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There are many things I look forward as each new year begins. One of them will be the annual unveiling of HTC's flagship device and this year; Malaysia launched the HTC One M9+ . The event took place recently at ROOTZ Club KL on 28 April, 2015.<br />
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<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/ugwug/17185234587" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" title="HTC M9+ Launch by wmw wmw, on Flickr"><img alt="HTC M9+ Launch" height="640" src="https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7774/17185234587_ab73208cb5_z.jpg" width="424" /></a><a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/ugwug/17185234587" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" title="HTC M9+ Launch by wmw wmw, on Flickr"><br /></a><a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/ugwug/17185234587" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" title="HTC M9+ Launch by wmw wmw, on Flickr"><br /></a></div>
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Starting us off, Cheong Wah Tong (Country manager, HTC Malaysia) gave the opening speech.<br />
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<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/ugwug/17185234437" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;" title="HTC M9+ Launch by wmw wmw, on Flickr"><img alt="HTC M9+ Launch" height="640" src="https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7700/17185234437_3f79ee3756_z.jpg" width="424" /></a><a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/ugwug/17185234437" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;" title="HTC M9+ Launch by wmw wmw, on Flickr"><br /></a><a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/ugwug/17185234437" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;" title="HTC M9+ Launch by wmw wmw, on Flickr"><br /></a><a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/ugwug/17185234437" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;" title="HTC M9+ Launch by wmw wmw, on Flickr"><br /></a>
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Faisal Siddiqui (President, HTC South Asia) then took to the stage and delivered the keynote of the launch event.<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/ugwug/16772409423" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;" title="HTC M9+ Launch by wmw wmw, on Flickr"><img alt="HTC M9+ Launch" height="351" src="https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7668/16772409423_c94d18d198_z.jpg" width="530" /></a><br />
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The phone was then officially launched by the HTC team with the unveiling of the HTC One M9+ and also the dual sim HTC Desire 826 being showcased on eyecatching HTC lit alphabets.<br />
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<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/ugwug/17366715416" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" title="HTC M9+ Launch by wmw wmw, on Flickr"><img alt="HTC M9+ Launch" height="199" src="https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7668/17366715416_c0b437b489_z.jpg" width="530" /></a></div>
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Wayne Tang (Product Marketing Manager, HTC South Asia) then took us through the key features of the HTC One M9+. When asked what was his favourite feature of the phone, he said that it's the sheer beauty of the HTC One M9+ all metal unibody design with the dual tone silver and rose gold finish! I would have to agree!</div>
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<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/ugwug/17390703882" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" title="HTC M9+ Launch by wmw wmw, on Flickr"><img alt="HTC M9+ Launch" height="700" src="https://farm9.staticflickr.com/8814/17390703882_92041d9005_b.jpg" width="464" /></a></div>
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Presenting the all new HTC One M9+, a beauty that is sure to cause phone envy! If you have been wanting to get your hands on a premium high end Android phone, this is one beauty that you simply must possess!</div>
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The HTC One M9+ comes with 3GB RAM and 32GB on board storage version with an expandable memory up to 2TB via microSD storage. It is now in stores and available in Gold on Silver and Gunmetal Gray while the Gold on Gold variant will be available later this year. The recommended retail price for the HTC One M9+ is RM2,599 (inclusive of GST). Check out the specifications below and click <a href="http://www.htc.com/in/smartphones/htc-one-m9-plus/" target="_blank">HERE</a> to find out more.</div>
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<li class="mobile-hide"><h4 style="clear: both; line-height: 16px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-align: left;">
Size<span style="font-size: 9px; line-height: 0; position: relative; top: -0.5em; vertical-align: baseline;"></span></h4>
<span class="long" style="display: block; line-height: 16px; margin: 8px 0px 0px; text-align: left;">150.99 x 71.99 x 9.61 mm</span></li>
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CPU Speed<span style="font-size: 9px; line-height: 0; position: relative; top: -0.5em; vertical-align: baseline;"></span></h4>
<span class="long" style="display: block; line-height: 16px; margin: 8px 0px 0px;"><ul style="list-style: none; margin: 0px; padding: 0px;">
<li style="text-align: left;">MediaTek helio™ X10, octa core</li>
<li style="text-align: left;">8 x 2.2 GHz</li>
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Network<span style="font-size: 9px; line-height: 0; position: relative; top: -0.5em; vertical-align: baseline;">1</span></h4>
<span class="long" style="display: block; line-height: 16px; margin: 8px 0px 0px;"><ul style="list-style: none; margin: 0px; padding: 0px;">
<li style="text-align: left;"><strong>2G/2.5G - GSM/GPRS/EDGE</strong>:</li>
<li style="text-align: left;">850/900/1800/1900 MHz</li>
<li style="text-align: left;"><strong>3G UMTS</strong>:</li>
<li style="text-align: left;">850/900/1900/2100 MHz</li>
<li style="text-align: left;"><strong>3G TD-SCDMA</strong>:</li>
<li style="text-align: left;">1900/2000 MHz</li>
<li style="text-align: left;"><strong>4G LTE</strong>:</li>
<li style="text-align: left;">FDD: Bands 1,3,5,7,8,28</li>
<li style="text-align: left;">TDD: Bands 38, 39, 40, 41</li>
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Sensors<span style="font-size: 9px; line-height: 0; position: relative; top: -0.5em; vertical-align: baseline;"></span></h4>
<span class="long" style="display: block; line-height: 16px; margin: 8px 0px 0px;"><ul style="list-style: none; margin: 0px; padding: 0px;">
<li style="text-align: left;">Ambient light sensor</li>
<li style="text-align: left;">Proximity sensor</li>
<li style="text-align: left;">Accelerometer</li>
<li style="text-align: left;">Compass sensor</li>
<li style="text-align: left;">Gyro sensor</li>
<li style="text-align: left;">Magnetic sensor</li>
<li style="text-align: left;">Sensor Hub</li>
<li style="text-align: left;">Fingerprint sensor</li>
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Camera<span style="font-size: 9px; line-height: 0; position: relative; top: -0.5em; vertical-align: baseline;"></span></h4>
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<li style="text-align: left;"><strong>Main camera</strong>: 20MP Duo Camera with sapphire cover lens, auto-focus , BSI sensor, f/2.2, 27.8mm lens, 4K video recording</li>
<li style="text-align: left;"><strong>Front camera</strong>: HTC UltraPixel™, BSI sensor, f/2.0, 26.8mm lens, 1080p video recording</li>
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Weight<span style="font-size: 9px; line-height: 0; position: relative; top: -0.5em; vertical-align: baseline;"></span></h4>
<span class="long" style="display: block; line-height: 16px; margin: 8px 0px 0px; text-align: left;">168g</span></li>
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Platform Android<span style="font-size: 9px; line-height: 0; position: relative; top: -0.5em; vertical-align: baseline;"></span></h4>
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Android™ with HTC Sense™</div>
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Memory<span style="font-size: 9px; line-height: 0; position: relative; top: -0.5em; vertical-align: baseline;">2</span></h4>
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<li style="text-align: left;"><strong>ROM</strong>: 32GB / RAM: 3GB</li>
<li style="text-align: left;"><strong>Extended memory</strong>: microSD™ up to 2TB</li>
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<li style="text-align: left;">NFC</li>
<li style="text-align: left;">Bluetooth<span style="font-size: 9px; line-height: 0; position: relative; top: -0.5em; vertical-align: baseline;">®</span> 4.1</li>
<li style="text-align: left;">Wi-Fi<span style="font-size: 9px; line-height: 0; position: relative; top: -0.5em; vertical-align: baseline;">®</span>: 802.11 a/b/g/n/ac (2.4 & 5 GHz)</li>
<li style="text-align: left;">DLNA<span style="font-size: 9px; line-height: 0; position: relative; top: -0.5em; vertical-align: baseline;">®</span></li>
<li style="text-align: left;">HDMI MHL 2.0</li>
<li style="text-align: left;">CIR</li>
<li style="text-align: left;">3.5 mm stereo audio jack</li>
<li style="text-align: left;">micro-USB 2.0 (5-pin) port</li>
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Multimedia<span style="font-size: 9px; line-height: 0; position: relative; top: -0.5em; vertical-align: baseline;"></span></h4>
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<li style="text-align: left;"><strong>Audio supported formats:</strong></li>
<li style="text-align: left;"><strong>Playback</strong>: .aac, .amr, .ogg, .m4a, .mid, .mp3, .wav, .wma, .flac, ac3, ec3, eac3</li>
<li style="text-align: left;"><strong>Recording</strong>: .aac</li>
<li style="text-align: left;"><strong>Video supported formats:</strong></li>
<li style="text-align: left;"><strong>Playback</strong>: .3gp, .3g2, .mp4, .wmv, .avi, .mkv</li>
<li style="text-align: left;"><strong>Recording</strong>: .mp4</li>
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Display<span style="font-size: 9px; line-height: 0; position: relative; top: -0.5em; vertical-align: baseline;"></span></h4>
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5.2 inch, WQHD (1440 x 2560)</div>
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SIM Card Type<span style="font-size: 9px; line-height: 0; position: relative; top: -0.5em; vertical-align: baseline;"></span></h4>
<span class="long" style="display: block; line-height: 16px; margin: 8px 0px 0px;"><div style="margin-bottom: 10px; margin-top: 10px; text-align: left;">
nano SIM</div>
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GPS<span style="font-size: 9px; line-height: 0; position: relative; top: -0.5em; vertical-align: baseline;"></span></h4>
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Internal GPS antenna + GLONASS + Beidou</div>
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Sound<span style="font-size: 9px; line-height: 0; position: relative; top: -0.5em; vertical-align: baseline;"></span></h4>
<span class="long" style="display: block; line-height: 16px; margin: 8px 0px 0px;"><div style="margin-bottom: 10px; margin-top: 10px; text-align: left;">
HTC BoomSound™ with Dolby Audio™</div>
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<li class=""><h4 style="clear: both; line-height: 16px; margin: 26px 0px 0px; padding: 0px; text-align: left;">
Battery<span style="font-size: 9px; line-height: 0; position: relative; top: -0.5em; vertical-align: baseline;">3</span></h4>
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<li style="text-align: left;"><strong>Capacity</strong>: 2840 mAh</li>
<li style="text-align: left;"><strong>Talk time</strong>: Up to 23 hours for 2G/ 13 hours for 3G</li>
<li style="text-align: left;"><strong>Standby time</strong>: Up to 598 hours for 2G/ 626 hours for 3G</li>
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</ul>
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<div class="footnote" style="background-color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.85098); color: white; font-family: 'Noto Sans', Arial, 'Helvetica Neue', Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 12px; line-height: 16px; padding-right: 30px;">
<ol>
<li><div style="text-align: left;">
Network bands in regions may be different, depending on the mobile operator and your location. 4G LTE only available in select countries. Upload and download speeds also depend on the mobile provider.</div>
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Available storage is less due to phone software. Approximately 21 GB storage available for user content. Available storage is subject to change based on phone software updates and apps usage.</div>
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Battery times (talk time, standby time and more) are subject to network and phone usage.</div>
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A Standby time specification ("specification") is an industry standard that is only intended to allow comparison of different mobile devices under the same circumstances. Power consumption in a standby state is strongly dependent on factors including but not limited to network, settings, location, movement, signal strength and mobile traffic. Comparisons of different mobile devices using such a specification can therefore only be done in a controlled laboratory environment. When using any mobile device in real life circumstances for which the mobile device is intended, the standby time could be considerably lower and will be strongly dependent on the factors mentioned above.</div>
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Note: Specifications are subject to change without prior notice.</div>
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wmwhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02914331846574692774noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-22786113.post-48498914878723355132015-03-25T13:21:00.000+08:002015-03-25T13:21:55.278+08:00Magnum Presents : The Best Of Belgian Indulgence, Celebrate Pleasure!A word of thanks to Salina & Associates PR Sdn Bhd for the invite to the delightful Magnum event, "Magnum Presents : The Best Of Belgian Indulgence" at Magnum Cafe, Mid Valley Megamall. Arriving at venue slightly early, I kept myself busy with my camera; taking photos of the place.<br />
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<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/ugwug/16915156325" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" title="Magnum Cafe by wmw wmw, on Flickr"><img alt="Magnum Cafe" height="750" src="https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7619/16915156325_8e6daa15ba_b.jpg" width="497" /></a></div>
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The upper area of Magnum Cafe was specially closed off for the event. </div>
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<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/ugwug/16292767384" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" title="Magnum Cafe - Topping Bar by wmw wmw, on Flickr"><img alt="Magnum Cafe - Topping Bar" height="750" src="https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7654/16292767384_29ce0b6eaa_b.jpg" width="497" /></a></div>
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The Topping Bar with a wide variety for one to customized their own Magnum ice cream.</div>
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There has been a constant line of people, queuing up to have a taste of the Magnum ice cream varieties but more so for the opportunity to customize their own Magnum ice cream. We were given the chance to customize our own Magnum after the lunch event. One can choose from a Vanilla or Chocolate Brownie Magnum with a coating and drizzle of either Milk Chocolate, Dark Chocolate or White Chocolate and 3 toppings from the many varieties to choose from (there are some non standard toppings to choose from like chilli flakes, rock salt, goji berries!), </div>
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<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/ugwug/16915448865" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" title="Customize Your Own Magnum by wmw wmw, on Flickr"><img alt="Customize Your Own Magnum" height="700" src="https://farm9.staticflickr.com/8743/16915448865_edb86e8b5a_b.jpg" width="480" /></a></div>
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Back to the main event....From far just a stick of Magnum ice cream, we were treated to a four course sit down lunch created by Magnum's Group Executive Chef, Chef Steven Chin; who has 13 years of culinary experience. Before lunch was served, Chef Steven Chin briefly described how he came about with the creation of his chocolate inspired dishes.</div>
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<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/ugwug/16915156195" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" title="Chef Steven Chin by wmw wmw, on Flickr"><img alt="Chef Steven Chin" height="640" src="https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7617/16915156195_9b26c78f9f_z.jpg" width="424" /></a></div>
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Chef Steven Chin</div>
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<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/ugwug/16728966229" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" title="Spice Butternut Squash Velaute by wmw wmw, on Flickr"><img alt="Spice Butternut Squash Velaute" height="640" src="https://farm9.staticflickr.com/8699/16728966229_6f13aa8e2b_z.jpg" width="424" /></a></div>
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<b>Starters</b> , Spice Butternut Squash Velout; Butternut pumpkin soup scent with cinnamon, topped with shaved bitter dark chocolate. I enjoyed the soup albeit I am not a fan cinnamon :o). The bitter dark chocolate taste lingered after a spoonful, and gave balance to the sweetness. </div>
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<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/ugwug/16914141251" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" title="Marinated Capellini Pasta by wmw wmw, on Flickr"><img alt="Marinated Capellini Pasta" height="520" src="https://farm9.staticflickr.com/8713/16914141251_4ce694bd82_z.jpg" width="520" /></a></div>
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<b>Appetizer</b> : Marinated Capellini pasta with ulam-ulaman, served with crisp unagi beignet, salted choc emulsion, soy reduction and crispy ginger. This was surprisingly enjoyable! Each item had a unique taste of its own and formed an ensemble that teased the palate.</div>
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<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/ugwug/16295138573" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" title="Pan Seared Butterfish by wmw wmw, on Flickr"><img alt="Pan Seared Butterfish" height="520" src="https://farm9.staticflickr.com/8727/16295138573_f37e4b1a0a_z.jpg" width="520" /></a></div>
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<b>Main Course</b> : Pan seared butterfish fillet served with sauteed baby spinach and white chocolate "beurre blanc" sauce. Not being a fan of fish, I approached this with caution. I ate the seared part of the fish; delighted by the accompanying "beurre blanc" white chocolate sauce. The creamy sauce was sweet and rich but also tangy from the apple cider vinegar. It complemented the butterfish very well.</div>
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<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/ugwug/16915156175" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" title="Death By Chocolate by wmw wmw, on Flickr"><img alt="Death By Chocolate" height="640" src="https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7632/16915156175_08517149ec_z.jpg" width="424" /></a></div>
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<b>Dessert : Death by Chocolate</b></div>
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Baked to order warm chocolate molten lava cake, magnum chocolate brownies ice cream and chocolate crunch pearls. With lots of ice plain water in hand, we attacked the sweet dessert. Definitely something that is meant to be shared, the richness and sweetness could be a tad too much for some! Hahaha.... and as if they thought that we might have lived through Death by Chocolate, we were given more desserts that we available on the current Magnum Cafe menu to indulge in.</div>
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<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/ugwug/16913888952" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" title="Magnum Trifle by wmw wmw, on Flickr"><img alt="Magnum Trifle" height="750" src="https://farm9.staticflickr.com/8701/16913888952_d21fdefcc8_b.jpg" width="424" /></a></div>
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<b>Magnum Trifle</b>; meringue with mascarpone cream with a white chocolate dipped vanilla Magnum with strawberries and dried raspberries.</div>
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<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/ugwug/16914141411" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" title="Magnum Red Velvet by wmw wmw, on Flickr"><img alt="Magnum Red Velvet" height="750" src="https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7601/16914141411_36aa5032e1_b.jpg" width="424" /></a></div>
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<b>Magnum Red Velvet</b>; Vanilla Magnum, dipped with dark chocolate and a slice of red velvet. Magnum ice cream is as good as it gets, however I felt that the red velvet lack the premium taste and was mediocre, hence subtracting a couple of points from this otherwise work of art.</div>
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Magnum will be launching a "Celebrating Chocolate Pleasures" campaign in April 2015 with concourse events, digital contests and in-store promotions. Do visit Magnum Malaysia <a href="https://www.facebook.com/MagnumMalaysia" target="_blank">HERE</a> for more information.</div>
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Magnum Cafe<br />
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3rd Floor, South Court</div>
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Mid Valley Megamall</div>
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Lingkaran Syed Putra</div>
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59200 Kuala Lumpur</div>
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<br />wmwhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02914331846574692774noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-22786113.post-60812053305613643952014-09-15T08:10:00.000+08:002014-09-15T08:10:00.136+08:00HTC One E8 Launch - Here's To GrE8-nessI had the opportunity to attend yet another launch event, this time for the HTC One E8. The event took place at The Centre for Asian Photographers, Level 1, The School in Jaya One on August 13. I guess you would know by now that I am a HTC fan as I have always love their smartphone designs. The premium HTC One launched back in April 2013 set the path for future improved designs like the HTC BoomSound dual front facing speakers, making HTC One The Phone Of The Year. Fast forward a year later, we have had the <a href="http://ugwug.blogspot.com/2014/02/htc-one-max-review.html" target="_blank">HTC One Max</a> and the even more premium <a href="http://ugwug.blogspot.com/2014/06/love-new-htc-one-m8-review.html" target="_blank">HTC One M8</a> (love love love the duo camera lens!).<br />
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<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/ugwug/15050820390" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" title="HTC One E8 Launch by wmw wmw, on Flickr"><img alt="HTC One E8 Launch" height="700" src="https://farm6.staticflickr.com/5578/15050820390_54c4d90a10_b.jpg" width="464" /></a></div>
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S K Wong (Country Manager, HTC Malaysia) proudly welcoming the latest addition to the HTC family, the HTC One E8</div>
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<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/ugwug/15237133052" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" title="HTC One E8 Launch by wmw wmw, on Flickr"><img alt="HTC One E8 Launch" height="344" src="https://farm4.staticflickr.com/3926/15237133052_1f4f1c0d9b_z.jpg" width="520" /></a></div>
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Happy Moments - Delighted by the GRE8-NESS of the HTC One E8, S K Wong and Shane Chiang</div>
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There I was standing before gre8-ness with the HTC One E8. The first in the HTC family to pack a rear 13MP camera feature, it takes photo taking and display up a notch on the 5" screen display. Apart from the already iconic dual frontal facing speakers, the E8 has a dual curve design with tapered sides for a comfortable fit in the hand. It also has the same Motion Launch which was introduced on the HTC One M8 that I have come to really love. Double tapping to wake the screen instead of pressing down the power button gives a longer life to the buttons on the phone in my opinion. Even picking up a call is so much easier, there isn't a need to swipe/tap the Answer button, all I need to do is just bring the phone up to my ear and the call is automatically answered!<br />
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<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/ugwug/15237153702" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" title="HTC One E8 Launch by wmw wmw, on Flickr"><img alt="HTC One E8 Launch" height="344" src="https://farm6.staticflickr.com/5586/15237153702_7b782a77ff_z.jpg" width="520" /></a></div>
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(Left to Right) Wayne Tang, SK Wong, Raymond Tan (COO of Brighstar Malaysia), Shane Chiang (Head of Corporate & Consumer PR, HTC South Asia)</div>
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<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/ugwug/15050756189" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" title="HTC One E8 Launch by wmw wmw, on Flickr"><img alt="HTC One E8 Launch" height="320" src="https://farm4.staticflickr.com/3880/15050756189_f22105359c_z.jpg" width="520" /></a></div>
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Wayne Tang, Product Marketing Manager of HTC South Asia going through the features on the HTC One E8 to the guests and media.</div>
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<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/ugwug/15214494326" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" title="HTC One E8 Launch by wmw wmw, on Flickr"><img alt="HTC One E8 Launch" height="373" src="https://farm4.staticflickr.com/3866/15214494326_ef2a2c23bd_z.jpg" width="520" /></a></div>
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The HTC One E8 and the paparazzi </div>
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Well, read more about the new HTC One E8 and its specifications <a href="http://www.htc.com/sea/smartphones/htc-one-e8/" target="_blank">here</a>. Come fall in love with HTC like I did :o). Below is the press release for the product.<br />
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<b><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; font-size: 16.0pt; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;">HTC EXTENDS THE BEST SMARTPHONE FAMILY WITH THE HTC ONE (E8)<sup><span style="text-transform: uppercase;"> </span></sup></span></b><b><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; font-size: 16.0pt; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-fareast-font-family: Arial; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;"><o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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<i><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; font-size: 11.0pt; line-height: 150%; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;">Make a fashion statement with the vibrant and curvaceous HTC One (E8),
packed with the latest HTC <b>Sense™ 6 </b>experience<o:p></o:p></span></i></div>
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<b><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; font-size: 11.0pt; line-height: 150%; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;">Malaysia, 13 August 2014</span></b><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; font-size: 11.0pt; line-height: 150%; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;"> – HTC, a global leader in innovation and design, today unveiled the HTC
One (E8), a gorgeous, lightweight device, designed to attract the fashion pack.
A vibrant twist on HTC’s iconic flagship design, The HTC One (E8) introduces
new materials and bold, stylish colours to the award-winning One family. Complete
with Motion Launch™, HTC BoomSound™, and incredible imaging capabilities, thanks
to the 5MP front-facing and 13MP rear-facing cameras, the HTC One (E8) exudes
originality without compromise.<b><o:p></o:p></b></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; font-size: 11.0pt; line-height: 150%; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;">Jack Yang, President, HTC South Asia said: “The HTC One (M8) sets a new
smartphone standard and now we’re taking it in another exciting direction. Combining
style and substance, the HTC One (E8) represents the incredible experience
people expect from a HTC One device with a look and feel that’s unlike anything
else out there today. If you’re looking for the best flagship smartphone
experience, but want to stand out from the crowd, this is the phone for you.” </span><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; font-size: 11.0pt; line-height: 150%; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-fareast-font-family: Arial; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<b><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; font-size: 11.0pt; line-height: 150%; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;">Break the mold with a fashion-forward smartphone<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; font-size: 11.0pt; line-height: 150%; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;">The HTC One (E8)'s distinctive design aesthetic makes it the perfect companion
for the fashion-conscious, with an elegant dual curve design that looks great
and sits perfectly in your palm no matter how you hold it. The beautiful 5-inch
device features a full HD, borderless display for a cleaner viewing experience.
Encased in a light yet robust polycarbonate unibody, the HTC One (E8) comes in
a vibrant range of colours </span><span lang="EN-GB" style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; font-size: 11.0pt; line-height: 150%; mso-ansi-language: EN-GB; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;">and</span><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; font-size: 11.0pt; line-height: 150%; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;"> finishes for those looking for a
trend-setting smartphone. </span><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; font-size: 11.0pt; line-height: 150%; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-fareast-font-family: "Arial Bold"; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 11.0pt; line-height: 150%; mso-fareast-font-family: Arial;"> <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<b><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; font-size: 11.0pt; line-height: 150%; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;">Elegant design, inside and out</span></b><b><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; font-size: 11.0pt; line-height: 150%; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-fareast-font-family: "Arial Bold"; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;"><o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; font-size: 11.0pt; line-height: 150%; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;">The new HTC One (E8) takes the entire smartphone experience to new
heights. The dual front-facing speakers and latest HTC BoomSound™ technology
creates unrivalled sound, with rich tones, powerful bass and crystal-clear
treble, combining to create a rounded, immersive sound.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<div class="BodyA" style="line-height: 150%; text-align: justify;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; font-size: 11.0pt; line-height: 150%; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;">An on-board sensor hub underpins HTC’s acclaimed Motion Launch™,
enabling the HTC One (E8) to detect position and movement, allowing you to
interact with the phone and perform popular functions without turning on the
screen.</span><span lang="EN-US" style="color: #ff2c21; font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; font-size: 11.0pt; line-height: 150%; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;"> </span><span lang="EN-US" style="color: windowtext; font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; font-size: 11.0pt; line-height: 150%; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="color: windowtext; font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; font-size: 11.0pt; line-height: 150%; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;"> <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; font-size: 11.0pt; line-height: 150%; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-fareast-font-family: Arial; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;">Complete with a 2,600 mAh battery, 2GB
of RAM and 16GB of onboard memory and expandable SD storage capacity, the HTC
One (E8) is the perfect companion to a busy life. And now with HTC’s extreme
power saver mode, the device will keep you functional even when the huge
battery is running low.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<b><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; font-size: 11.0pt; line-height: 150%; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;">Stunning selfies</span></b><b><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; font-size: 11.0pt; line-height: 150%; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-fareast-font-family: "Arial Bold"; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;"><o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; font-size: 11.0pt; line-height: 150%; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;">With a superb 5MP front-facing, wide-angle camera and HTC Sense 6’s
intuitive camera experience, take the perfect selfie every time. Activate the auto
self-timer by a simple tap of the screen and switch seamlessly between selfie
mode and the HTC’s 13MP rear-facing camera with a single swipe. With both
cameras supporting full 1080p HD video recording, the HTC One (E8) delivers a
truly superior imaging package.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="BodyA" style="line-height: 150%;">
<br /></div>
<div class="BodyA" style="line-height: 150%;">
<b><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; font-size: 11.0pt; line-height: 150%; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-fareast-font-family: Arial; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;">Built for performance<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; font-size: 11pt; line-height: 150%;">Complete with support
for Cat 4 LTE, a 2,600 mAh battery, 2GB RAM and 16GB of onboard memory and
an expandable SD storage capacity, the HTC One (E8) is the perfect
companion to a busy life. And now with HTC’s extreme power saver mode, the
device will keep you functional even when the long lasting battery is
running low.</span><span lang="EN-MY" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; font-size: 11pt; line-height: 150%;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="BodyA" style="line-height: 150%;">
<br /></div>
<div class="BodyA" style="line-height: 150%;">
<b><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; font-size: 11.0pt; line-height: 150%; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;">HTC Dot View™ case – the most stylish accessory around</span></b><b><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; font-size: 11.0pt; line-height: 150%; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-fareast-font-family: "Arial Bold"; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;"><o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="BodyA" style="line-height: 150%; text-align: justify;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; font-size: 11.0pt; line-height: 150%; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;">Combining retro fashion with stylish function, HTC’s innovative HTC Dot
View™ case displays notifications and interactions on a colourful dot-matrix effect
that makes every update a visually stunning statement. Combined with Motion
Launch™ you can check the latest information and receive calls in style without
needing to uncover the screen, keeping you on-trend and on the go.</span><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; font-size: 11.0pt; line-height: 150%; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-fareast-font-family: Arial; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="BodyA" style="line-height: 150%;">
<br /></div>
<div class="BodyA" style="line-height: 150%;">
<b><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; font-size: 11.0pt; line-height: 150%; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;">Availability</span></b><b><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; font-size: 11.0pt; line-height: 150%; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-fareast-font-family: Arial; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;"><o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<br />
<div class="BodyA" style="line-height: 150%; text-align: justify;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; font-size: 11.0pt; line-height: 150%; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;">The HTC One (E8) will be available in Polar White and Misty Gray, with
Electric Crimson coming in October, at a retail recommended price of RM1,699 at
HTC Authorised Resellers. </span><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; font-size: 11.0pt; line-height: 150%; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-fareast-font-family: Arial; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br />wmwhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02914331846574692774noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-22786113.post-28071230657878925922014-09-01T09:22:00.000+08:002014-09-01T12:28:09.887+08:00I'm Not A Chef, Kota DamansaraI'm Not A Chef (INAC) is one of those places that I frequent as I drop by now and then when I wanna wind down for the night. You might even find me helping out there, hehehe.... That is because INAC is run by two people; Nat and Stef. It's an incredible task that Nat (the one who is a chef but yet not a chef!) and Stef (does everything else except the cooking!) go through daily from 10 a.m. till 9 p.m. except their rest day which is on Sundays.<br />
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<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/ugwug/14909209767" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" title="Colours by wmw wmw, on Flickr"><img alt="Colours" height="800" src="https://farm4.staticflickr.com/3847/14909209767_0801d485cd_b.jpg" width="530" /></a></div>
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Regulars would end up lending a hand or just wait patiently (during peak lunch hour) for their food to arrive. With reasonably priced and tasty Western/local food, it's a routine that the regulars willingly go through. This place is a favourite with students since it's within the vicinity of Segi University. Actually, this is good and bad for INAC. Good in the sense that there's a steady flow of diners. Bad in the sense that some of these student diners take advantage of the free wifi. e.g. They come in a group of five and would only put in an order for two drinks and then they spend the next three to four hours or more on the internet! So, with this explanation, do note that there is a sign that states that each customer is required to have at least a minimum one drink order.<br />
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<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/ugwug/14909075419" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" title="Corner by wmw wmw, on Flickr"><img alt="Corner" height="800" src="https://farm6.staticflickr.com/5591/14909075419_aee0fef066_b.jpg" width="530" /></a></div>
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You can hardly catch a glimpse of Nat during lunch hour (she will be cooking at a furious pace in the kitchen!) and a busy Stef who is almost too pre-occupied to even breathe as she deals with the maddening lunch crowd order and demands. However, come non-peak period, you can find Nat and Stef chatting with the regulars. For the rest of us who are at INAC for the food primarily, it's a cozy place where one can chill. Seriously,we make ourselves at home! To get a gist of what I mean, drop by INAC :o)<br />
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Here are pics of my favourite food from I'm Not A Chef ... Oh, I must mention that Nat does the desserts herself too!<br />
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<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/ugwug/14909190830" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" title="Onion Rings by wmw wmw, on Flickr"><img alt="Onion Rings" height="800" src="https://farm6.staticflickr.com/5557/14909190830_285479672a_b.jpg" width="452" /></a></div>
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My favourite snack, Onion Rings!<br />
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<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/ugwug/14909209297" title="Sesame Chicken by wmw wmw, on Flickr"><img alt="Sesame Chicken" src="https://farm4.staticflickr.com/3851/14909209297_06733abc62_b.jpg" /></a>
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Sesame Chicken Rice. Oh, that drink that looks like a beer with all that foam? It's actually their special Ice Lemon Tea concoction (it's really nice but I do find it sweet, so I would ask for a lot of ice or add water to it)</div>
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<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/ugwug/15095754405" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" title="Kolok Mee by wmw wmw, on Flickr"><img alt="Kolok Mee" height="800" src="https://farm4.staticflickr.com/3889/15095754405_5440756826_b.jpg" width="530" /></a></div>
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Nat's Kolok Mee with Minced Chicken, mushroom and half braised egg. The Chilli Pan Mee is pretty good too.</div>
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<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/ugwug/14909116680" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" title="Chicken Pie by wmw wmw, on Flickr"><img alt="Chicken Pie" height="800" src="https://farm4.staticflickr.com/3848/14909116680_1a02b83d87_b.jpg" width="452" /></a></div>
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Chicken and Mushroom Pie...I enjoy the pie crust</div>
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<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/ugwug/15092745781" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" title="Chiaki Chicken by wmw wmw, on Flickr"><img alt="Chiaki Chicken" height="800" src="https://farm6.staticflickr.com/5569/15092745781_b25c2ca5ca_b.jpg" width="452" /></a></div>
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Chiaki Chicken Apple Slices & Sauce with potatoes and salad. Named after a friend who taught Nat this recipe. The Chicken is marinated in some secret sauce and fried, giving it a dark brown colour and a nice crisp. Dipped into the Apple Sauce that is served on the side, it's so Michael Jackson bad that it's GOOD! Hahaha...</div>
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<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/ugwug/14909210187" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" title="Carrot Cake by wmw wmw, on Flickr"><img alt="Carrot Cake" height="800" src="https://farm4.staticflickr.com/3867/14909210187_de21d4bc5e_b.jpg" width="494" /></a></div>
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Nat's Carrot Cake is really full of good stuff. Try it!</div>
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<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/ugwug/15095403712" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" title="Bread Pudding by wmw wmw, on Flickr"><img alt="Bread Pudding" height="800" src="https://farm4.staticflickr.com/3846/15095403712_1c0ec6169e_b.jpg" width="452" /></a></div>
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Bread Butter Pudding....a dessert that hits the spot for sure!</div>
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Lots more on the menu that I have yet to explore. By the way, do check out the cute hand drawn illustration on the menu and everywhere else where you can spot a drawing. Like these stools below ...<br />
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<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/ugwug/15095402642" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" title="Hand Drawn Art On Stools by wmw wmw, on Flickr"><img alt="Hand Drawn Art On Stools" height="800" src="https://farm6.staticflickr.com/5586/15095402642_0b99ac5dbc_b.jpg" width="530" /></a></div>
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All the art that you see around INAC are drawn by Stef. At the moment, check out the little wall gallery near the cashier's counter where you can buy hand drawn cards on display (drawn by Stef and her other talented friends) at RM5 per piece. Proceeds will go towards National Cancer Society Malaysia ... a cause close to Stef's heart as her mum passed away early this year due to cancer. You can also donate more ... look out for the collection tin hanging at the side of the wall gallery.<br />
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If you can, try dropping by INAC during non peak hours to fully appreciate this place. INAC is running on limited resources but it's a place where you can find food and "heart", they do their best ... Yes, I "heart" INAC indeed!<br />
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I'm Not A Chef (<a href="https://www.facebook.com/imnotachef.cafe?fref=ts" target="_blank">Facebook Page)</a><br />
B6-2-5, Jalan Teknologi 2/1E<br />
Signature Park,<br />
Kota Damansara<br />
47810 Petaling Jaya, Selangor<br />
<br />
Tel : 03-61437440 (Best call to check)<br />
Mon-Sat : 10 a.m - 9 p.m<br />
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<br />wmwhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02914331846574692774noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-22786113.post-53757154546169251642014-06-17T01:19:00.001+08:002014-06-17T01:19:35.167+08:00Love The New HTC One M8 : Review<div class="MsoNormal">
I received a HTC One M8 unit from HTC to review as part of a
testing program. It was great to have a
chance to test out this 2014 HTC’s flagship model with the much anticipated HTC Sense 6 and
Android Kit Kat 4.4. The design of the
phone itself is gorgeous - 90% metal unibody (weighing in at 160 grams) and soft curves along the edges (as compared
to the <a href="http://ugwug.blogspot.com/2013/04/htc-one-malaysia-launch-this-is-one.html" target="_blank">2013 HTC One</a> model), it looks and feels solid in the hands like a
premium smartphone should, especially the clarity of the stunning 5-inch, full
1080p HD display. </div>
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<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/ugwug/14097923389" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" title="HTC One M8 Malaysia Launch by wmw wmw, on Flickr"><img alt="HTC One M8 Malaysia Launch" height="700" src="https://farm3.staticflickr.com/2895/14097923389_968c20658b_b.jpg" width="464" /></a></div>
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The gorgeous HTC One M8 metal unibody with the Duo Camera lens feature</div>
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Here are some of the
features that I truly love about the new HTC One M8 :-<o:p></o:p><br />
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<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpFirst" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -18.0pt;">
<span style="font-family: Symbol; text-indent: -18pt;">·<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 7pt;"> </span></span><span style="text-indent: -18pt;"><b>DUO CAMERA</b> with Ultrapixel and a dual colour
flash. I really love taking photos with
the HTC One M8. With the Duo Camera
adding a depth sensor, I can make my images more professional looking with
effects like Ufocus which allows me to choose the focus area of my image after
I take my shots. There’s also the
Foregrounder that allows me to choose from four variants; Sketch, Zoom Blur,
Cartoon and Colorize. These are the two
most frequent effects I use amongst the many others like Seasons, 3D Dimension
Plus, Sticker, Copy & Paste and Touch Up. The 5 MP wide angle front facing
camera is a great feature too as its clarity is the best I’ve seen so far for
taking “selfie” or “wefie” photos. The Ultrapixel also works best in low light
conditions. It gets the job done and
done well. Of course, we are not talking
about enlarging images to poster size.</span><o:p></o:p><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhF5P-A0GCB8cV8rcPY3uf2uLZb1E3QYR2vELWZD2ZzWhUz078sea2p_1Pk_ZETVpoKGlS1-xcNoucvPMsgH_G32xfzjkY-iYM3qbqhnt1bBMX9PlN6j6Ea_4OjYFBsm3Dn1qyurg/s1600/1233974_10154189303525691_5345047602593599897_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhF5P-A0GCB8cV8rcPY3uf2uLZb1E3QYR2vELWZD2ZzWhUz078sea2p_1Pk_ZETVpoKGlS1-xcNoucvPMsgH_G32xfzjkY-iYM3qbqhnt1bBMX9PlN6j6Ea_4OjYFBsm3Dn1qyurg/s1600/1233974_10154189303525691_5345047602593599897_n.jpg" /></a></div>
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<span style="text-indent: -18pt;"> Here's a pic I took and one which I used the Foregrounder "Sketch" to edit the pic. Cute!</span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgW3TdkC0e7E1RYp6JTsITezrsAdEGrelRY5Gt32zG-4Z9pBjBPnvWusHFim0U1Ct6Xyq34d03KqXmJQMFlcucrRmdaTfzAybCH6zkz8CSaQuDim0JstkmoNUZ22tYuo-mXDRvobw/s1600/10390378_10154267205790691_4600362814985260000_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgW3TdkC0e7E1RYp6JTsITezrsAdEGrelRY5Gt32zG-4Z9pBjBPnvWusHFim0U1Ct6Xyq34d03KqXmJQMFlcucrRmdaTfzAybCH6zkz8CSaQuDim0JstkmoNUZ22tYuo-mXDRvobw/s1600/10390378_10154267205790691_4600362814985260000_n.jpg" /></a></div>
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Here's a shot I took in a rather dim place but with lights surrounding this cafe counter. The words on the blackboard are still relatively clear; this is the Ultrapixel at work.</div>
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<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -18.0pt;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Symbol; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;">·<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 7pt;"> </span></span><b>MOTION LAUNCH</b> - Along with the HTC Sense 6, the
HTC One M8 has this new feature which I love.
A double tap on the screen is all you need to do to see the time. It turns the lock screen off and on! I love
that I can prolong the life of the power button! A swipe downwards while phone
is in sleep mode) activates the device that prompts you to say the name of the
person you would like to call. There’s
also Auto Answer which allows me to answer a call when I put the phone to my
ear, done without touching the screen.
Another great feature for those who have their hands dirty from eating
some tasty buffalo wings or wet from washing dishes! Hahaha...<o:p></o:p></div>
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<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -18.0pt;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Symbol; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;">·<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 7pt;"> </span></span><b>HTC BoomSound</b> – There is an improvement over the
previous HTC One. The HTC One M8 is
louder and delivers a richer tone through the dual frontal speakers as it has a
new amplifier and speaker chambers.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjGFEB6ILMTXRXN6f8a1EaXT5oJh1EzXsBej5jGmhmAzzeibiDTxxKobmoSvHu5yfbD_wR3f1mkOI7G0wWEMq7MWq0iDmCllPWUuwe8C8phfwPyRZzoxyuYR2yd42k4DVzd4vrpww/s1600/Screenshot_2014-06-04-18-18-57.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjGFEB6ILMTXRXN6f8a1EaXT5oJh1EzXsBej5jGmhmAzzeibiDTxxKobmoSvHu5yfbD_wR3f1mkOI7G0wWEMq7MWq0iDmCllPWUuwe8C8phfwPyRZzoxyuYR2yd42k4DVzd4vrpww/s1600/Screenshot_2014-06-04-18-18-57.png" height="640" width="360" /></a></div>
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I customised my BlinkFeed to get me straight to my favourite news and articles on Food! Hahaha....</div>
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<div class="MsoNormal">
Of course the micro SD card slot is a welcome feature here
(up to 128GB!). I personally use a 64GB
and find that there is more than enough space for an avid photographer like
me. The battery performance has also
been quite phenomenal, lasting me up to two days. I use the phone for taking lots of
photographs, editing work, internet, music and light calls and texting. I guess it’s dependent on what sort of user
one is. I would dare say that it would
last more than two days for a light user for sure. Coupled with the availability of an Extreme
Power Saving mode for those who are on the move and can’t quite get to charging
the phone, the HTC One M8 performs
exceptionally well and much longer! Of
course, the BlinkFeed is still here, consolidating all my favourite news from
different customize sources. <br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiTdS1sC5sR52I9rL_LA_4BM0tE1aRt9OecGtk8pls9GBXeqM42NG3VrLWOluj0ujQvI8vDhvBUY4MA9nAVlr82wOZP7u3nU-I-ll8bVitUmtECOB4ytH8l4-ztUw1-asOP-kCI5g/s1600/HTC_One_M8_metal_3V.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiTdS1sC5sR52I9rL_LA_4BM0tE1aRt9OecGtk8pls9GBXeqM42NG3VrLWOluj0ujQvI8vDhvBUY4MA9nAVlr82wOZP7u3nU-I-ll8bVitUmtECOB4ytH8l4-ztUw1-asOP-kCI5g/s1600/HTC_One_M8_metal_3V.jpg" height="316" width="400" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
With the
latest HTC One M8 (the above is gunmetal gray, my fave colour), it’s the only ONE thing
I need and rely on to connect with everyone and everything else!<o:p></o:p></div>
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wmwhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02914331846574692774noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-22786113.post-67075195585412515152014-06-09T08:27:00.000+08:002014-06-09T18:37:14.491+08:00Curry Leaf, Damansara UtamaIn a dilemma...I write this post. I feel that more folks should be dining here but yet would like to keep this place to myself. But good things must be shared, so share I must! I am a fan of nasi briyani and when bro took me here sometime back, I had wondered why I had not made a visit to Curry Leaf before when it was so near to me all this time. You know what they say...sometimes the very thing that you are looking for is the one thing you can't see! That's how I felt about Curry Leaf. Just before this, I was telling my brother about the mediocre nasi briyani I had from a shop in Bangsar, where one was charged at a higher price if you were to sit in the air-conditioned section! The Nasi Briyani with Honey Chicken was about RM12.50 and yes, it was mediocre...yet people throng that place daily.<br />
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And here I was again, on a Sunday ... having my <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Biryani" target="_blank">Briyani</a> Mutton rice in the quiet Curry Leaf. A simple looking restaurant but with great food. This is a branch from the original restaurant located in Seremban and I'm glad they came to Damansara Uptown. I only wished I knew about Curry Leaf sooner, I could have had more and better briyani rice! Hahaha.... Anyway, there were about six tables taken but there were still ample empty tables. I really can't understand why there weren't more customers. My bro had his banana leaf rice while I gave my usual order. I like to usually order a small plate of my vegetables - cabbage to go with my rice.</div>
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<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/ugwug/14188035760" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" title="Vegetables by wmw wmw, on Flickr"><img alt="Vegetables" height="700" src="https://farm4.staticflickr.com/3865/14188035760_bbae06c0de_b.jpg" width="396" /></a></div>
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I love the aromatic spices they put in to stir fry the cabbage. A great accompaniment for the briyani rice!</div>
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<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/ugwug/14188035420" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" title="Briyani Mutton Rice by wmw wmw, on Flickr"><img alt="Briyani Mutton Rice" height="700" src="https://farm6.staticflickr.com/5578/14188035420_c01129c8c7_b.jpg" width="396" /></a></div>
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The lovely briyani rice comes in a little metal pot. But don't scoff at that little pot as it holds a big serving actually. If one is really hungry, it will be no problem to finish it off but those with small appetite can probably share one, though I figure the best would be for 3 pax to share two pots of these. There are several briyani variants; you have plain, egg, chicken, mutton, squid... It is served with some yogurt raita on the side. Each rice grain is flavourful and the mutton is tender and cooked spot on! All this at a reasonable price of RM9! No more briyani elsewhere (for now...until I find one better!)! People oh people? Where are you oh people on a Sunday afternoon like this? Oooh, the pics here are taken with my new HTC One M8 by the way, I'm loving it!</div>
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<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/ugwug/14374602235" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" title="Briyani Mutton Rice by wmw wmw, on Flickr"><img alt="Briyani Mutton Rice" height="700" src="https://farm6.staticflickr.com/5556/14374602235_5492972005_b.jpg" width="396" /></a></div>
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The rice is filled with generous pieces of mutton meat, a truly satisfying meal for sure. I need to go try the Kashmiri Naan...the pic displayed on the glass window of Curry Leaf sure has me piqued. A naan with dried fruits and slices of mango on it, for RM5! Actually, there are a lot of other dishes I would like to try but I only have one stomach! :o( By the way, the Lassi here is pretty good too and also reasonably priced at RM3.80!</div>
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People! People! Listen! Try out Curry Leaf and you will be go back for more! Okay, lunch time here on a weekday might be tricky unless you work around this area and can make your way there on foot but it's relatively easier to find a parking space during dinner time and the weekends.</div>
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Curry Leaf (near to Haji Samuri Kajang Satay)</div>
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Ground Floor, No. 75, Jalan SS21/37</div>
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Damansara Utama (Uptown)</div>
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47400 Petaling Jaya, Selangor</div>
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Tel : +603 7726 5880</div>
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Open Daily 7.30 am - 10.30 pm</div>
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wmwhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02914331846574692774noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-22786113.post-74742593723094506832014-05-28T08:01:00.000+08:002014-05-28T08:01:00.409+08:00HTC One M8 Malaysia Launch, HTC Keeps Getting BetterIt was with much excitement that I looked forward to May 8th where the HTC One M8 was officially launched in Malaysia. This time round the venue was at DPAC (Damansara Performing Arts Centre). The HTC One M8 is the 2014 flagship smartphone for HTC and was launched internationally in London earlier on March 25th.<br />
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<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/ugwug/14304773643" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" title="HTC One M8 Malaysia Launch by wmw wmw, on Flickr"><img alt="HTC One M8 Malaysia Launch" height="358" src="https://farm3.staticflickr.com/2899/14304773643_22e740c922_z.jpg" width="540" /></a></div>
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HTC One M8, ready to be unveiled in time</div>
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<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/ugwug/14097951568" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" title="HTC One M8 Malaysia Launch by wmw wmw, on Flickr"><img alt="HTC One M8 Malaysia Launch" height="358" src="https://farm6.staticflickr.com/5560/14097951568_fb0d594d20_o.jpg" width="540" /></a></div>
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Otterbox for HTC One M8 available that night, along with other cases on display. No Dot View Case in sight though. I am so tempted to get a Dot View Case!</div>
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<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/ugwug/14284593975" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" title="HTC One M8 Malaysia Launch by wmw wmw, on Flickr"><img alt="HTC One M8 Malaysia Launch" height="700" src="https://farm4.staticflickr.com/3714/14284593975_c40e392ae1_o.jpg" width="464" /></a></div>
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Some of the beautiful photos on display, taken by <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Kid_Chan" target="_blank">Kid Chan</a>, with the HTC One M8. Love the pics! </div>
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<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/ugwug/14097969870" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" title="HTC One M8 Malaysia Launch by wmw wmw, on Flickr"><img alt="HTC One M8 Malaysia Launch" height="358" src="https://farm3.staticflickr.com/2927/14097969870_335333c11a_o.jpg" width="540" /></a></div>
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Watching Robert Downey Jr on screen, extolling the greatness of the HTC One M8</div>
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<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/ugwug/14281436001" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" title="HTC One M8 Malaysia Launch by wmw wmw, on Flickr"><img alt="HTC One M8 Malaysia Launch" height="402" src="https://farm3.staticflickr.com/2895/14281436001_eef10c609c_o.jpg" width="402" /></a></div>
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<b>Top To Bottom (Clockwise)</b> : S K Wong (Country Manager of HTC Malaysia, Sirpa Ikola (Senior Marketing Director of HTC South Asia, Justin Zhang, Head of Product Portfolio of HTC South Asia HTC team with business partners, Kid Chan telling us the joy of using the HTC One M8 for some of his photography projects.</div>
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<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/ugwug/14097969690" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" title="HTC One M8 Malaysia Launch by wmw wmw, on Flickr"><img alt="HTC One M8 Malaysia Launch" height="640" src="https://farm4.staticflickr.com/3744/14097969690_66f3c0541e_z.jpg" width="424" /></a></div>
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The veil is finally lifted! The HTC One M8 is truly a sight to behold. Made up of 90% metal, it looks and feels solid like a premium phone should.</div>
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<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/ugwug/14097923389" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" title="HTC One M8 Malaysia Launch by wmw wmw, on Flickr"><img alt="HTC One M8 Malaysia Launch" height="640" src="https://farm3.staticflickr.com/2895/14097923389_968c20658b_z.jpg" width="424" /></a></div>
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One of the new features of the HTC One M8 is the duo camera lens that enables a better depth reading, producing a better overall photography experience.</div>
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<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/ugwug/14097951058" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" title="HTC One M8 Malaysia Launch by wmw wmw, on Flickr"><img alt="HTC One M8 Malaysia Launch" height="640" src="https://farm6.staticflickr.com/5529/14097951058_0d45cc6eba_z.jpg" width="424" /></a></div>
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Here are the <a href="http://www.htc.com/sea/smartphones/htc-one-m8/?cid=sem216p29989" target="_blank">specs</a> of the latest HTC One M8. It is now available in telco stores near you. Check out the plans under <a href="http://new.digi.com.my/cs/Satellite/ecomm_C/smartphone_main_product/default/HTC_One_M8?gclid=CjkKEQjw75CcBRCz2LiEs5OPsZoBEiQADgUma4UKPdGXqKoftEerGtOBLqTFxu9jX-4C9eusb-ayjdvw_wcB" target="_blank">Digi</a> and <a href="http://new.maxis.com.my/en/personal/devices/all-phones/htc/htc-one-m8.html?gclid=CjkKEQjw75CcBRCz2LiEs5OPsZoBEiQADgUmaycvdi7L-v100aT-zG3TUlEWD6EBzAojxWE7NPSB21zw_wcB" target="_blank">Maxis</a> </div>
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Stay tuned for more on the HTC One M8 ..... to be continued<br />
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wmwhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02914331846574692774noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-22786113.post-29458577524498055252014-04-10T07:49:00.000+08:002014-04-10T18:16:43.276+08:00Juan Valdez Cafe Origins, Intermark MallOn April 1st, Juan Valdez Cafe Origins opened its first cafe in South East Asia, right here in the heart of Kuala Lumpur at Lot G-22, Ground Floor, Intermark Mall.<br />
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<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/ugwug/13740354923" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" title="Juan Valdez Cafe Origins Opening by wmw wmw, on Flickr"><img alt="Juan Valdez Cafe Origins Opening" height="347" src="https://farm3.staticflickr.com/2900/13740354923_9b1bef90c1_z.jpg" width="520" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/ugwug/13740711324" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" title="Juan Valdez Cafe Origins Opening by wmw wmw, on Flickr"><img alt="Juan Valdez Cafe Origins Opening" height="500" src="https://farm3.staticflickr.com/2830/13740711324_b000419e24.jpg" width="333" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/ugwug/13740656724" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" title="Juan Valdez Cafe Origins Opening by wmw wmw, on Flickr"><img alt="Juan Valdez Cafe Origins Opening" height="640" src="https://farm4.staticflickr.com/3759/13740656724_f440ac00b1_z.jpg" width="427" /></a></div>
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The ribbon cutting ceremony was graced by the Charge D'Affaires of the Embassy of Colombia in Malaysia, Mr Camilo Salazar and President of Procafecol, Hernan Mendez. The cute highlight of the ceremony was not only the appearance of Mr Juan Valdez himself but of him together with Juan Valdez's mascot donkey!<br />
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<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/ugwug/13740656814" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" title="Juan Valdez Cafe Origins Opening by wmw wmw, on Flickr"><img alt="Juan Valdez Cafe Origins Opening" height="640" src="https://farm4.staticflickr.com/3723/13740656814_8cf1fe6e55_z.jpg" width="427" /></a></div>
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The delegates and invited guest were treated to samplings from the menu designed especially by the renowned Chef Nathalie Arbefeuille in addition to the ice blend and brewed Juan Valdez coffee that we got to try. The cafe has a nice ambiance; an upmarket alternative but with comparative pricing to hipster cafes that have been mushrooming within the Klang Valley. Good for business meetings, this cafe should also do well with its current location within the Golden Triangle. Check it out!<br />
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<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/ugwug/13740353763" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" title="Juan Valdez Cafe Origins Opening by wmw wmw, on Flickr"><img alt="Juan Valdez Cafe Origins Opening" height="640" src="https://farm4.staticflickr.com/3671/13740353763_0b846189bc_z.jpg" width="427" /></a></div>
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Here is the Press Release issued by Salina & Associates PR Sdn Bhd :-<br />
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<b><span lang="ES-CO" style="font-family: "Cambria","serif"; font-size: 20.0pt; mso-ansi-language: ES-CO;">Juan Valdez</span></b><b><span lang="ES-CO" style="font-family: "Cambria","serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; mso-ansi-language: ES-CO;">®</span></b><b><span lang="ES-CO" style="font-family: "Cambria","serif"; font-size: 20.0pt; mso-ansi-language: ES-CO;"> Café Comes to Malaysia<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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<i><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Cambria","serif"; font-size: 20.0pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;">The iconic coffee brand opens its first store <o:p></o:p></span></i></div>
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<i><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Cambria","serif"; font-size: 20.0pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;">in Kuala Lumpur</span></i><b><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Cambria","serif"; font-size: 20.0pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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<b><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Cambria","serif"; font-size: 11.0pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;">Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, </span></b><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Cambria","serif"; font-size: 11.0pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;">In
what represents an important step in its international expansion strategy, Juan
Valdez® Café has opened its first café in South East Asia in Kuala Lumpur,
Malaysia. The store is the first of six in the company’s plans to open in this
country. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Cambria","serif"; font-size: 11.0pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;">The café is located on Jalan Ampang and
Jalan Tun Razak , The Intermark, in the exclusive Golden Triangle. Many turned
out to celebrate the opening of the 220m2 store including Procafecol's President
Hernán Méndez, Colombian Ambassador, local dignitaries and even Juan Valdez
himself. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Cambria","serif"; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;">"We are very
optimistic about our presence in this new region," said Méndez during the
opening of the first Juan Valdez coffee shop in the region. “We have prepared
intensely for this new phase, even bringing in Colombian experts to train local
staff. We also have very committed partners that will help ensure our success.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Cambria","serif"; font-size: 11.0pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;">This
new store is of the successful <b>Origins
flagship format</b> (recently launched last December in Bogotá, the Colombian
capital city), which aims at offering a different experience of Colombian
regional origins and specialty coffees ways of brewing. It is the first
flagship Origins coffee shop out of the country. For the opening of the coffee
shop, three Colombian experts at brewing and hospitality from the Juan Valdez®
headqurters team and the domestic training team traveled to Malaysia, all this
to bring the Colombian premium coffee culture!<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Cambria","serif"; font-size: 11.0pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;">The
portfolio of products to be offered by the store includes roasted and packed
coffee from different Colombian regions, hot and cold drinks brewed from
Colombian premium coffee, a great variety of premium pastries developed by a
recognized chef and products for coffee brewing and consumption. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<b><u><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Cambria","serif"; font-size: 11.0pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;">Juan Valdez Arrives in one of the World’s attractive
Region <o:p></o:p></span></u></b></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Cambria","serif"; font-size: 11.0pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;">Malaysia’s
dynamic economy has caught the attention of the investor community, and Juan
Valdez decided it could not miss out on this opportunity. This country's steady
growth —about 4% in the last years— the government’s stated goal to become a
high-income country by 2020, plus growth in the coffee category of 6% per year,
were powerful reasons that prompted Procafecol to disembark in this country.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Cambria","serif"; font-size: 11.0pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;">Malaysia
is an increasingly demanding coffee market, with young consumers featuring a
very educated palate and great appreciation of premium-type products, such as
those marketed by Juan Valdez® Café. Connoisseurs believe that a coffee brand
such as Juan Valdez</span><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Cambria","serif"; font-size: 11.0pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">® Café </span><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Cambria","serif"; font-size: 11.0pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;">has huge room for growth throughout the country.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Cambria","serif"; font-size: 11.0pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;">With
the opening of the first store in Malaysia, Juan Valdez® Café already has 267
coffee shops worldwide, of which 187 are in Colombia and 80 distributed in 12
other countries: Aruba, Chile, Ecuador, El Salvador, Kuwait, Malaysia, Mexico,
Peru, Panama, South Korea, Spain and the USA. There will be 330 stores
operating worldwide by year’s end with openings planned in Latin American as
well as others regions and countries.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<b><u><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Cambria","serif"; font-size: 11.0pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;">An inclusive business model<o:p></o:p></span></u></b></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Cambria","serif"; font-size: 11.0pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;">Juan
Valdez® Café stores and packaged products are designed to benefit Colombian
coffee growers. Procafecol, the company that operates the brand, was designed
as an inclusive business model where the farmers themselves actually benefit
from the sale of every cup of Colombian coffee. The Colombian Coffee Growers
Federation (FNC) is Procafecol’s <a href="https://www.blogger.com/null" name="_GoBack"></a>largest shareholder, and
in addition, more than 18,000 individual coffee growers have invested in
Procafecol´s shares. All in all, there are more than 500,000 coffee growing
families represented by the FNC, and the vast majority own small coffee
plantations no bigger than 1.6 hectares on average.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Cambria","serif"; font-size: 11.0pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;">In
addition, the business pays royalties to the National Coffee Fund (FONC) to
provide support and programs to Colombian coffee growers. In the last year 2013,
royalties for direct operation of the brand reached more than US$ 4 million. No
other company in this sector allocates a
comparable proportion of its income to projects that focus on sustainability of
coffee cultivation.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<b><u><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Cambria","serif"; font-size: 10.0pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;">About the Juan Valdez® brand<o:p></o:p></span></u></b></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Cambria","serif"; font-size: 10.0pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;">Juan Valdez® is the only internationally recognized
brand that belongs to coffee producers. Inspired in the icon that has
represented Café de Colombia for over 50 years, in 2002 the Colombian Coffee
Growers Federation – a non-profit organization that represents more than
500,000 small Colombian coffee producers – created the Juan Valdez® brand for
coffee shops. Years later, after the popularity and acceptance of the brand in
coffee shops and products was consolidated, the distribution of Juan Valdez®
products in other national and international distribution channels began.
Besides being a synonym of high quality for Colombian premium coffee consumers,
Juan Valdez´s coffees transfer a greater value to coffee producers. Further
information on <a href="http://www.juanvaldezcafe.com/">www.juanvaldezcafe.com</a>
and </span><span lang="ES" style="font-family: "Cambria","serif"; font-size: 10.0pt;"><span lang="EN-US"><a href="http://www.cafedecolombia.com/">www.cafedecolombia.com</a></span><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Cambria","serif"; font-size: 11.0pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;">Lot G-22, Ground Floor<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Cambria","serif"; font-size: 11.0pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;">Intermark Mall, The Intermark<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Cambria","serif"; font-size: 11.0pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;">348 Jalan Tun Razak</span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Cambria","serif"; font-size: 11.0pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;">50400 Kuala Lumpur<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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wmwhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02914331846574692774noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-22786113.post-8854883753831964232014-03-12T22:19:00.000+08:002014-03-12T22:26:10.165+08:00Cooling Down @ Baba Low's, BangsarThe weather has been a killer of late...I have been seeking reprieve in the malls, cinemas, hypermarkets, restaurants but the best way has to be the full enjoyment of having an icy cold dessert. Though Baba Low's isn't air-conditioned, there's always one thing that draws me back time and time again. While the food fares pretty well too, it's the Cendol that gets me going! This is a place where I will usually eat dessert first, then the mains and sometimes once in awhile...dessert again! Hahaha....<br />
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Ahhh...Cendol, the current love of my life! I love the fragrant gula melaka. Combined with the coconut milk and the shaved ice, it's one satisfying concoction, spot on sweetness with a tad of saltiness that makes it good.</div>
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Then there is this Popiah Peranakan, one won't know what to make of it on the first bite. The popiah skin is akin to a soft crepe texture as you can see from the photo. I decided that I do like this popiah peranakan; turnip, fried shallots, coriander, egg strips, cucumber, bean sprouts with a dash of Gula Melaka. Try it and decide for yourself :o) Oh, no pics of the Pie Tee that can be seen in the background? I personally thought it was just okay.<br />
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This I do like! Nyonya Laksa...With a fragrant soup that was just right, thick enough and not too rich that would please the palate of most. Lovely!</div>
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I love Mee Siam but the Mee Siam here was average to me. It scored extra points for the tasty chilli sambal (not spicy enough though) that accompanied it. Generous serving of julienned cucumber and egg strips ? +1<br />
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Hmm...we ordered this as the name intrigued us. Mee Goreng Sejuk! After eating it, we were still intrigued as we couldn't decide what to make of it. No, the noodles weren't served cold but warm (not hot, but warm). It was a simple serving of noodles with a sunny side up egg on top and julienne cucumbers on the side. We found it on the salty side, not sure whether it's suppose to be salty or the cook was a tad generous with the salt that day. If you have tried this, what do you think of it?<br />
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For me, I'll order the Nyonya Laksa and at the end of the meal...All's good with a Cendol (again!) ;o) <br />
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Baba Low's 486</div>
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11, Lorong Kurau,</div>
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59100 Bangsar</div>
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Kuala Lumpur</div>
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Opens Daily from 7 a.m till 10 p.m</div>
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Tel : 603-2284 8486</div>
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wmwhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02914331846574692774noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-22786113.post-29365862425619133352014-03-03T01:54:00.000+08:002014-03-03T02:48:18.690+08:00Caffebene Is Here in Malaysia @ Sunway PyramidAn impromptu outing with <a href="http://www.coffeekaki.com/" target="_blank">Coffee Kaki</a> (CK) led me to Caffebene (which means Good Cafe) on a busy Sunday afternoon. This international Korean coffee chain finally hit our shores with the first outlet in Sunway Pyramid. Thankfully, finding a parking bay was easy if that meant parking on the roof ... at 1.20pm, ample bays up on the roof. For easy access to Caffebene...enter car park through the Sunway Convention Centre and head up to CP7 (Level 7), unless you manage to find empty bays available on the lower floors. Taking the escalator to the mall all the way down till you hit the shopping mall floor where TGIF and Padini Concept Store is located. Caffebene is just a floor below. Once you are there, try to control yourself from over ordering with all the goodies in store (for those unfamiliar with Caffebene, check out their menu <a href="http://caffebene.com.my/our-menu/" target="_blank">HERE</a> and you will see what I mean!).<br />
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Anyway, CK went to get a table while I stood in line to order. They will give you a device that flashes and vibrates when your order is ready. However, when CK went to pick up the order, CK came back with a staff who carried the order to our table instead. One of their signature items is Bingsu. Bingsu (shaved ice with toppings) is a popular dessert found everywhere in Korea. Well, Caffebene's has a wide range of Bingsu (green tea, strawberry, cookies & cream, coffee - to name a few) and they are truly a feast for the eyes as well as your tummy. With the current hot weather in Malaysia, surely this was as easy choice for me (no hot coffee for now!).<br />
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See what I mean? Isn't it lovely looking? This is a Coffee Bingsu (Single RM10.80/USD3). It looks heavenly and it taste nice too, though CK found it a tad sweet. It was generously "smothered" with toppings!<br />
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I thoroughly enjoyed my Strawberry Bingsu....The Strawberry ice cream sweetness level was just nice, sitting on a bed of generous red bean. There were quite a lot of strawberries on and in the shaved ice. They looked like a type of strawberry variety as they were all rather tiny and of the same size (I had even thought that they could be raspberries) and on the sour side. This was okay as it went well with the sweetness of the shaved ice dessert. The Bingsu is rather huge, it seemed almost bottomless at one point but on a hot day, I manage to finish it on my own. Otherwise, I think it's a good size for 2 to share. Would definitely come back for this!<br />
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Speaking of sharing, I ordered the Garlic and Cheese Honey Bread (RM16/USD5) for us to share. It can be a meal for one but it will be quite a full meal indeed.<br />
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The Honey Bread has a nice texture, a crisp outer layer and soft insides. This was really tasty and something one should try at Caffebene. Something I would order once in awhile for RM16 can get me 1.5 of a Bingsu which I definitely enjoyed more than this.<br />
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Caffebene Malaysia will be having a official grand opening of the Sunway Pyramid outlet this coming 8th March, officiated by Korean celebrity, Lee Kwang-Soo. Check out <a href="https://www.facebook.com/caffebene.asia" target="_blank">Caffebene's Facebook page</a> for more info. It seems that they are opening another outlet in Solaris Mont Kiara! Happiness!!! </div>
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Caffebene</div>
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Lot OB5.G.2, Sunway Pyramid</div>
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No. 3 Jalan PJS 11/15</div>
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Bandar Sunway,</div>
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Petaling Jaya, Selangor</div>
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wmwhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02914331846574692774noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-22786113.post-12483237340719005982014-02-10T00:40:00.001+08:002014-02-10T00:40:18.582+08:00HTC BoomBass ReviewContinuing from my previous post, the second and last part of the review is on the HTC BoomBass speaker accessory. I was sent an HTC BoomBass to test out together with a HTC
One Max. On it’s own, the HTC One Max is
already quite an entertainment powerhouse.
The large 5.9” display and the HTC BoomSound dual front facing speakers
can stand alone in delivering both high quality video and audio in the
smartphones category. Using the HTC
BoomBass (which is also compatible with the HTC Butterfly S and HTC One0 was easy straight out of the box
which is what I like most about it. It
connects wirelessly to the HTC One Max with just a simple NFC (Near Field
Communication) tap on the cute 64 x 64 mm (2.5 x 2.5 ")speaker cube and it disconnects the same way
too.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh83JEwrfVaqtaR9NtZqHffE5I-XoYmGMCuKIsWimyZqpMWavhbFNb5VMUO1Ve88DVIs2-vw_WuOp1lff3yhzRQIlpEV4qlKwRyIXCJ-PNRRgID1uX5hUX12I3Z6Y99bouiShrUQQ/s1600/IMAG5824.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh83JEwrfVaqtaR9NtZqHffE5I-XoYmGMCuKIsWimyZqpMWavhbFNb5VMUO1Ve88DVIs2-vw_WuOp1lff3yhzRQIlpEV4qlKwRyIXCJ-PNRRgID1uX5hUX12I3Z6Y99bouiShrUQQ/s1600/IMAG5824.jpg" height="640" width="440" /></a></div>
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It also works as a reclining stand
as the base slides out for one to position the phone in place, making it easy
to watch videos and movies. The built-in-battery has lasted me quite a while, I
have lost count of how long I have been using it on a one time charge. So no worries about battery unless we
ourselves forget to recharge it! :o)</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgsRH4L-bdwwBeV7VLs4GTIa8BNMj9wPes1cbs26AIcmYjBUxv_nqysv9G_2-kkykzxBam0jXKE1W3Xvw8jONcIC2sOM_FR2ldbMLi4ipMm9iONhMbSDnB_roz2XuARtpv7u1RJeg/s1600/IMAG5823.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgsRH4L-bdwwBeV7VLs4GTIa8BNMj9wPes1cbs26AIcmYjBUxv_nqysv9G_2-kkykzxBam0jXKE1W3Xvw8jONcIC2sOM_FR2ldbMLi4ipMm9iONhMbSDnB_roz2XuARtpv7u1RJeg/s1600/IMAG5823.jpg" height="290" width="520" /></a></div>
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Here's the HTC One, reclining on the HTC Boom Bass (that's Once Upon A Time, if you're wondering what show that is...)</div>
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The HTC BoomBass does not increase the audio volume but enhances
audio the way a sub woofer does, adding bass (hence the name) for a richer and deeper tone. This is clearly notable when I am watching
movies, the HTC BoomBass gives me a more enjoyable mini-cinema experience especially when I am watching on the HTC One Max. For music, it depends on the original quality
of the audio files firstly. I find that
it works better for ballads, classical and instrumental music whereas it seemed
a tad “overworked” and strained for
trance tracks. Check out the full specifications <a href="http://www.htc.com/sea/accessories/htc-boombass/" target="_blank">HERE</a><br />
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Overall though, it’s a
great accessory to have around especially for on-the-go sharing video/movie
viewing and music experience with family and friends.<o:p></o:p><br />
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wmwhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02914331846574692774noreply@blogger.com0