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  • The Venetian….Kuliner, Piknik dan Judi.

    Judi dan Casino adalah dua hal yang sangat identik dengan Macau. Jadi kalau kamu ke Macau dan tidak melihat casinonya maka itu tidak syah.

    Gampang kok….

    Mau judi beneran?….Monggo. Siapa tahu kamu pulang dari Macau menjadi kaya raya.

    Atau….

    Hanya mau lihat-lihat orang main judi di casino?….Silahkan, ga ada yang ngelarang.

    Satu hal ketika kamu jalan-jalan ke Macau….Segera putuskan !. Casino manakah yang akan kamu kunjungi. Hal ini dikarenakan sangat melimpahnya jumlah casino di sana.

    Kalau aku, karena hanya penasaran dengan wujud casino yang sesungguhnya maka kuputuskan untuk berkunjung ke The Venetian.

    Kenapa The Venetian?

    Yes, aku akan menutup eksplorasiku dengan makan malam disana, lalu melihat gondola untuk merasakan sensasi wisata Venice, Italia dan terakhir akan kututup eksplorasiku dengan melihat orang berjudi di casino….The Venetian bisa memenuhi ketiganya. Jadi kupilihlah dia.

    Suasana Natal di The Venetian.

    —-****—-

    Kali ini aku mendapatkan busnya dengan mudah, cukup berbelok ke kiri dari pelataran Macao Tower maka aku mendapatkan sebuah halte bus (Halte Torre/Tunel Rodoviarios) dan aku menunggu bus kota bernomor MT4. 

    Dengan membayar ongkos bus sebesar Rp. 7.000, aku berhasil mencapai The Venetian dalam 15 menit waktu tempuh.

    Aku melihat bus berwarna biru lalu lalang di depan lobby The Venetian. Aku pun faham bahwa aku akan menaikinya nanti selesai mengeksplore The Venetian. Ya, itu bus gratis milik The Venetian untuk mengambil wisatawan dari Outer Harbour Ferry Terminal.

    Mengagumi gaya klasik bagunan The Venetian ketika aku mulai menapak masuk di bangunan itu. Kelaparan yang menyerangku sejak meninggalkan Macao Tower membuatku langsung bergerak ke lantai 5 ketika memasuki The Venetian.

    Mengelilingi food court, aku berusaha mencari menu termurah untuk dinner ku kali ini. Memastikan dengan berkelilling dua kali sebelum aku melepas Rp. 93.000 untuk seporsi nasi goring dan Rp. 20.000 untuk setengah liter air mineral….Mahal ampuuuuuunnnn.

    Tak sampai habis melahapnya karena porsinya yang begitu besar, kemudian aku mencari keberadaan gondola ala kota Venice untuk membunuh rasa penasaranku yang muncul sejak menonton wahana tersebut di sebuah acara televisi beberapa bulan sebelum keberangkatanku ke Macau.

    Inilah sungai buatan di The Venetian untuk wisata gondola.

    Kamu hanya perlu merogoh kocek sebesar Rp. 225.000 untuk menikmati wisata ini.

    Aku begitu larut menikmati keindahan The Venetian, berkeliling di setiap koridor pertokan yang menyediakan produk-produk ber merk.

    Pertokoan di The Venetian.
    Pertokoan juga.

    Selangkah kemudian aku tepat berada di depan pintu masuk casino. Target destinasi utama yang akhirnya ku kunjungi pada sesi penutup wisataku di Macau.

    Memasuku casino di The Venetian cukuplah mudah, hanya perlu menunjukkan passport kepada petugas keamanan di pintu depan maka kamu akan melenggang masuk dengan mudahnya.

    Bak berada di film-film Hong Kong zaman dahulu, aku menelusuri setiap sisi casino untuk melihat bagaimana cara orang berjudi di casino. Di setiap meja selalu satu bandar yang selalau menawariku untuk bermain judi. Tentu aku tak akan pernah melakukannya. Aku hanya tersenyum simpul setiap menanggapi permintaan mereka untuk berjudi.

    Penutup yang sangat istimewa. Akhirnya aku bisa melihat secara langsung casino di Macau. Semakin gelapnya hari mengharuskanku untuk meninggalkan The Venetian.

    Seperti yang kuungkapkan diatas, Aku tak akan melewatkan satu sesi lagi yaitu menaiki shuttle bus gratis yang disediakan oleh hotel-hotel besar di Macau. Kali ini aku menaiki free shuttle bus berwarna biru milik The Venetian. Aku menuju Outer Harbour Ferry Terminal menggunakan shuttle bus ini.

    Dari Outer Harbour Ferry Terminal aku melanjutkan perjalanan pulang ke hotel menggunkan bus no 10A seperti yang kulakukan ketika pertama kali tiba di Macau. Dengan tariff Rp. 5.500, aku tiba kembali di Villa Ka Meng Hotel untuk beristirahat dan melanjutkan perjalanan esok hari ke Shenzen menggunakan ferry cepat.

    Bye The Venetian….Bye Macao.

  • Ladies Market….First Day Closing

    My adventure in Hong Kong Disneyland ended….It was time to move to another destination.

    I gave USD 19,5 to female staff at Hong Kong Taiwan Hotel reception desk. Washing my body at 32nd hour since my last shower in Manila was first thing I did after opening room door.

    Indian halal fried rice stall on 1st floor saved me from hunger after a half day exploring Tian Tan Buddha and Hong Kong Disneyland on Lantau Island.

    Little fast walking to Tsim Sha Tsui Station and fastly leaving Chungking Mansions Building which is my hostel location. Using Tsuen Wan Line MTR and switching to MTR Kwun Tong Line at Mong Kok station, I finally arrived at Lok Fu Station.

    16-minutes train ride which reduced my Octopus Card balance about by USD 1,1. It was getting darker when I came out of Lok Fu Station at gate B. Damn, I was trapped in the darkness when going to Kowloon Walled City Park.

    Didn’t want to linger for set direction, I asked an office employee’s woman who was rushing up Kowloon Green Minibus (Kowloon GMB) which is a reliable transportation in Kowloon City District.

    Me: “Excuse me, mam!. Sorry for disturbing you. Can me know, which way towards Kowloon Walled City Park?”.

    She: “Just walk straight through that street, You can find it in 1 km or you can use this GMB to go there”.

    Me: “Oh, thank you mam. I prefer to walk towards there”. (not my way to take a bus for that distance)

    Walking through in Junction Road, I was getting a little suspicious because road looked quiet and a little dark. But I never intended to cancel my search. After walking for 15 minutes, I arrived at Kowloon Walled City Park. True to my guess, the park was very quiet and dark disguised. The existence of several garden lights didn’t necessarily make it so bright because of park wide.

    I just looked park from front yard. It was impossible to enter deeper areas, making me immediately leave this park.

    Just a moment in front of park.

    I returned to Lok Fu Station by walk. I intended to go to Ladies Market as closing trip on my first day in Hong Kong.

    Do you know Ladies Market, right?

    Sorry, this isn’t a market for selling women….Hahaha

    Ladies Market is a 1 km street market which majority of stalls sell women’s goods and trinkets such as watches, cosmetics, souvenirs, clothes and some even sell underwear.

    Taking Kwun Tong Line MTR. I headed to Mong Kok Station which is the closest stop to Ladies Market. Only 9 minutes and USD 0,75.

    Exit from gate E2 in Mong Kok Station and continued along Nelson Street.

    Actually, what are you doing, Donny?….Lack of initiative….Hahaha.

    In second crossroad, I turned right. Finally I was greeted with Tung Choi Street situation which was very crowded. Full of billboards on each side of road.

    “Wow, this is Ladies Market, amazing….very busy market” I thought. Hmmh, I might go back too little bit late at night if I lost control.

    “Let’s buy….100 Dollars get 3“, I faintly heard my country’s language. Intrigued made me to looking for voice owner to really meet her. Oh, the seller is a Hong Kong citizen who seems to be fluent in Indonesian language.

    “Let’s buy souvenirs for bringing to Indonesia, sir“, She said. I broadly smiled. Somehow, She persuaded me, until USD 13 could come out of my wallet and then she packed 6 pieces of t-shirts titled “I Love HK” …. Ups, every where, women are champion in selling…..But, I still champion in bargaining….Hahaha.

    Then, I spent more time to enjoy street food and also enjoyed a can of soft drink on a sidewalk bench. Eyes which are actually tired are invincible by drowsiness due to Ladies Market crowd. But, then time urged me to immediately went to hostel and I closed that night with an immeasurable impression about Hong Kong.

    For 7 minutes, Tsuen Wan Line MTR took me to Tsim Sha Tsui Station where my hostel was. The cost was only USD 0,75..

    Good night HK, see you tommorow.

    ….Zzzzzzz….

  • Macao Tower….Tak Sekedar Bungee Jumping.

    Tak semudah yang dibayangkan membaca denah transportasi umum Macau. Karena itu pulalah, aku tak kunjung menemukan bus nomor berapa dan halte di jalan mana yang bisa memindahkanku dari Ruins St. Paul menuju Macao Tower yang jarak buminya sekitar 3,5 km

    Menyusuri jalanan sempit di sekitar Ruins St. Paul untuk mencari halte bus.

    Setiap halte yang kutemui, aku selalu mencari keberadaan rute bus no. 9A tapi tak kunjung juga kutemukan….Guwe bukan nyasar….Hanya sedikit mengalami disorientasi.

    Aku terduduk lama di sebuah halte….lupa di jalan apa?….Duduk menenangkan diri dan berusaha memahami lembaran  peta bus yang cukup lebar. Setiap orang yang datang ke halte, memperhatikan wajahku yang tentu berbeda warna dengan mereka.

    Sepertinya Aku mulai memahami rute itu setelah sekian lama memeloti detail isi peta.

    Dipandu oleh kompas kecilku, aku mulai melangkah ke selatan….Aku berusaha untuk tidak berbelok dari ruas jalan Largo de Santo Agostinho yang kutahu akan mengantarkanku di sebuah halte bus yang akan dilewati oleh bus no 9A.

    Tak kusangka akan melewati Dom Pedro V Theatre di jalan Largo de Santo Agostinho.
    Itu penampakan Grand Lisboa Hotel yang sangat terkenal di dataran Macao.

    Aku harus segera menemukan dan menaiki bus itu sebelum terjebak gelap ketika pulang dari The Venetian sore nanti. Aku berbelok ke kanan untuk menyusuri jalan Avenue Da Praia Grande dan kemudian menyeberang ke jalan Avenue Dr. Stanley Ho yang kuduga menjadi letak halte bus yang kucari.

    Girang bukan main, ketika aku menemukan halte yang kumaksud di jalan tersebut. Nama halte tersebut adalah Shelter Praca Jorge Alvares. 10 menit kemudian aku sudah berada di dalam bus no. 9A yang mengarah ke Macao Tower.

    Memasuki bus penuh dengan keringat setelah berjalan dalam siraman sinar matahari selama 15 menit di jalanan Macau yang panas.

    Dalam 7 menit aku turun di pelataran luas di depan Macao Tower.

    Tower itu terlalu tinggi untuk dimasukkan ke dalam frame foto handphoneku. Berkali-kali mencoba dan tetap gagal, menara itu tak bisa masuk seutuhnya. Aku harus mengambilnya dari titik yang lain.

    Teriknya surya memaksaku untuk sejenak memasuki bangunan yang berfungsi sebagai toilet di sekitar pelataran Macao Tower.

    Kipas angin itu membantu mendinginkan badanku karena kapanasan.
    Ruang dalam toilet
    Toilet untuk kaum disabilitas.

    Menuju pelataran belakang Macao Tower, aku berusaha mencari pepohonan yang rimbun untuk menikmati keindahan menara itu dengan lebih leluasa.

    Menemukan pohon dan duduk santai dibawahnya.

    Aku sengaja menunggu surya yang bersiap meluncur dalam senja. Dan kegembiraan pun datang. Semakin turun sang surya semakin berdatangan pula masyarakat Macau di pelataran tempatku duduk.

    Dari sekian banyak warga lokal yang beraktifitas di pelataran itu, aku lebih tertegun pada seorang atlet muda nan cantik yang sedang di dampingi pelatihnya yang berkalung stopwatch. Push up, sit up dan lari sprint menjadi pelajaran si cantik yng harus dilahapnya tiap detik berjalan.

    Kian lama, suhu udara semakin menurun. Aku bergegas meninggalkan tempat duduk yang berada di sebelah kolam air di pelataran belakang tower.

    Foto diambil dari belakang tower.

    Berpindah ke pelataran depan untuk melihat secara live aktivitas bungee jumping yang pesertanya dilempar dari atas tower itu. Perlu kamu ketahui bahwa tower setinggi 338 meter itu, selain digunakan untuk observasi dan hiburan, juga digunakan untuk telekomunikasi dan penyiaran.

    Setahuku, untuk ber bungee jumping di Macao Tower memerlukan biaya hingga jutaan Rupiah.

    Macau Tower tepat di pintu depannya.

    Tepat pukul 15:30 aku mulai meninggalkan tower dengan menunggu kedatangan bus nomor MT4 di halte Torre/Tunel Rodoviarios di sebelah kiri pelataran depan Macao Tower.

    Aku menuju destinasi terakhirku di Macau….The Venetian.

  • Stranded in Wan Chai District, Stuck in Lockhart Road.

    Leaving Bank of China Tower in a slightly drizzling condition, I had to little bit run towards ‘Murray Road’ Tram Stop. I was getting ready to ride legendary transportation in Hong Kong i.e Ding Ding Tram. Trams which often appear in Hong Kong movies.

    ‘Murray Road’ Tram Stop.

    Queensway Road situation which very busy because many private cars and a half-part of road was taken to parking many “asphalt finisher vehicles” didn’t reduce my enthusiasm to waiting for this tram.

    5 minutes waiting, a blue tram arrived. I jumped into tram from back door and went straight to tram’s upper deck so I could freely enjoy street situation.

    My destination was Victoria Park. Do you know Victoria Park, right? It is the biggest park on Hong Kong Island which is a usual gathering point for Indonesian migrant workers in Hong Kong.

    I arrived in 35 minutes. After tapping my Octopus Card at fare machine located near driver, I immediately got off from front door. Tram rate is very cheap, only USD 0,30.

    Got off at ‘Victoria Park’ Tram Stop located on Causeway Road.

    Victoria Park was very close in front.

    But on shortly time after got off from tram, it heavily rained again. I quickly ran to find shelter in front of shops in Causeway Road.

    Looked like I had to cancel my visitation plan at Victoria Park. It was very heavy raining, I thought the park was definitely quiet too. I had to find other alternatives to using my time so that it wasn’t wasted in heavy rain.

    I tried to find a direction sign which could direct me to the nearest MTR station. At underground station was definitely warmer and drier.

    Yes, I saw a MTR logo which then directed me to Tin Hau MTR Station entrance gate. I decided to go to Hong Kong’s famous retail area i.e Causeway Bay area and would certainly stop at Causeway Bay Station. Rates around USD 0,6 with 6 minutes travel time.

    Tin Hau MTR Station.

    A clock showed 15:30 hours when I arrived at Causeway Bay. I decided to look for a diner while waiting for rain to stop. Sifting through many food stalls to avoid pork until I finally chose in a small stall in Jaffe Road.

    Rice plus tofu-toge and chicken for USD 3,5.
    That is a famous fast food stall in Causeway Bay area i.e Ying Heong Yuen.

    Furthermore,

    I headed to SOGO Mall….What were you doing, Donny?….Just for sightseeing. Walking around more than 30 minutes in a mall just to see expensive items. Well, This mall was similar with many malls in Jakarta.

    SOGO Mall in Hennessy Road.

    Out from mall, I stopped for a long time at one side of a large crossroad to observe Hong Kong residents activities who were super crowded.

    Busy crossroad on Hennessy Road near Causeway Bay MTR Station.

    —-***—-

    From Causeway Bay area then I moved to centre of Wan Chai District using tram. Going up from ‘Paterson Street’ Tram Stop and got off at ‘Swatow Street’ Tram Station. It only took 15 minutes and fare for about USD 0,30.

    Towards Wan Chai District.

    Got off at ‘Swatow Street’ Tram Station, I immediately realized whereabouts of a football stadium….Quite busy. Was there a football match?.

    The stadium name is Southorn Playground and is located on Luard Road.

    I approached and ventured to ask to security staff at stadium gate….and finally, I could enter into it….Free ticket also.

    Hurry in and took a seat at benchs. It was a stadium which used to play soccer for local residents. But it was quite crowded too. Joining with local people activities and I didn’t feel like a tourist. I was also unclearly screaming during match….Hahaha….Crazy.

    Southorn Playground flanked by Luard Road and Johnston Road.

    Only watched a half time because I wanted to see Wan Chai nightlife.

    Do You know Wan Chai District, right?

    Wan Chai is centre of nightlife throughout Hong Kong. Besides being known as an area for backpackers to staying, there are several areas in Wan Chai which are known as red districts. So besides offering cheap accommodations, you will easily find bars and clubs here.

    I tried to explore bars and clubs along Lockhart Road. And it is true, sexy women in minimal clothing passing by in and out of bars and clubs. Some of them brought by foreigners for money.

    Ah, I worried to couldn’t control myself….Finally I headed to a junction in middle of Lockhart Road and stopped by in a street food stall which sold a variety of sea food satay which was grilled on the spot. Enough with USD 0,75, you could get delicious grilled food in Hong Kong’s cold night air.

    Here it is the stall….”Ada Snack” is located at O’brien Road.

    Started to eat a satay, several sexy women came and ate foods in same stall….Waow, nervous….Finally, I prefered to left away from there.

    Fearing that I would miss an important performance, I decided to head for Victoria Harbor. I had to get there before 20:00 hours. Because it is the regular time for Symphony of Light to start. Took MTR from Wan Chai Station to Central Station. Fare is about USD 0,60 with 8 minutes travel time.

    Wow, that band sang a cool song….But I didn’t understand Chinese language.

    Cool buskers in a corridor which connecting Central MTR Station and Central Ferry Pier.

    I ran to see them sang some songs and after that I headed to pier to cross to Victoria Harbor. Paying about USD 0,30, I arrived at Victoria Harbor in 12 minutes.

    Taking a comfortable sitting position, then I waited for Symphony of Lights to began.

    Very beautiful view.

  • Menangkap Babi di Ruins St. Paul.

    Bersiap meninggalkan Senado Square.

    Belumlah puas menikmati pesona klasik Senado Square, Aku pun perlahan menjauh. Tak susah menemukan petunjuk arah menuju situs reruntuhan gereja dan college yang terletak 600 meter di utara alun-alun itu.

    Petunjuk arah berwarna hijau akan membantumu menemukannya.

    Langkahku berlanjut dengan menelusuri sederetan toko oleh-oleh yang mayoritas menjual makanan. Sementara dengan semakin memuncaknya matahari, perutku semakin lapar. Namun aku tak bergegas mencari makan siang, justru aku melakukan sebuah kegilaan lain.

    Mau tahu?….

    Perlu kamu ketahui, setiap toko tersebut menyediakan sampel makanan yang ditawarkan para pegawainya yang berdiri di depan area toko. Jika toko disana berjumlah lebih dari 30 buah, maka sudahkah kamu tahu apa maksudku?….yuk, jangan kelamaan mikir.

    Lihatlah totalitas mereka menjual makanan. Kostumnya keren kan.

    Ya, harusnya kamu tahu. Kegilaanku adalah mengambil dan menyicipi hampir semua jenis sampel makanan yang ditawarkan kepada para turis untuk dicoba rasanya.

    30 potongan kecil kue tentu lebih dari seporsi makan siangku. So….Makan siang gratis….Itu intinya.

    Dan keberuntunganku itu tiba. Di tengah keasyikanku mengunyah sejenis kue, tiba-tiba ada terselip rasa gurih yang luar biasa. Aku terus mengunyahnya hingga akhirnya mataku melotot tajam dan memaksaku berbalik kepada SPG yang menawariku kue itu.

    Aku: “What is it?”.

    Doi: “Cake, Sir”.

    Aku: “No no no, the ingredient?”. Beef or chicken?“

    Doi: “No, It’s pork, Sir”.

    Aku: “Oh nice taste, Ms”. Dengan gerakan secepat kilat, aku melepehkan kue itu di sebuah selokan kecil.

    Doi: “Are you OK, Sir?“

    Aku: “Yeaaa, I’m Okay, thanks Ms….But, sorry. I can’t eat pork. I’m moslem”.

    Itulah pertama kalinya Aku merasakan nikmatnya daging babi walau hanya sekedar beberapa kunyahan di rongga mulutku….Alhamdulillah, akhirnya…..eitttt….Astaghfirullah.

    Reruntuhan gereja dan college yang lebih dikenal dengan Ruins St. Paul itu akhirnya tepat berada di pelupuk mata dan hanya terpisah oleh beberapa puluhan anak tangga yang siap untuk kutanjaki.

    Bersiap sebelum menanjak.

    Banyaknya turis membuat setiap orang susah sekali mengabadikan diri dengan gerbang Ruins St. Paul tanpa ada gangguan seseorang di belakangnya.

    Oh Tuhan, Gerbang Ruins St. Paul yang selalu kulihat di prakiraan cuaca dunia di sebuah channel TV kabel akhirnya berada di depanku dan bisa kulihat dengan mata telanjang….Sepuasnya.

    Tapi…Temans,

    Ini kan situs reruntuhan sebuah gereja dan college….

    Sebagai penjelajah yang baik, seharusnya kamu tidak boleh berpuas diri hanya dengan mengambil foto bagian depan saja. Kamu musti masuk ke bagian belakang gerbang untuk membayangkan bagaimana besarnya gereja dan college ini di masa jaya berdirinya.

    Yuks, Kita masuk!….

    Memasuki gerbang, maka kamu akan melihat bahwa dinding di belakang gerbang disangga oleh plat besi yang sangat besar dan tebal. Ya, tentu ini untuk menanggulangi robohnya gerbang Ruins St. Paul.

    Gerbang bagian belakang dijaga oleh security.

    Berikutnya kamu akan menemukan lubang-lubang yang ditutup oleh lapisan kaca tebal. Jadi aku hanya bisa mengintipnya. Lalu itu lubang apa?

    Diperkirakan sebagai bekas tiang utama (kolom) dari Church of St. Paul.

    Bisa kamu bayangkan seberapa besar tiang asli Church of St. Paul?.
    Lihatlah lebih dekat.
    Bentuk asli Church of St. Paul berbentuk salib ya. Keren.

    Selain lubang-lubang persegi tersebut, kamu juga akan menemukan subuah ruangan tersisa yang sudah dikonservasi. Ini adalah ruangan Museum of Sacred Art and Crypt.

    Ini ruangannya.
    Bagian ruangan yang lain.

    So…itulah gaes, wujud dari Ruins St. Paul.

  • Star Ferry towards The Hong Kong Observation Wheel

    Dark clouds and fog which never thinned in that morning made the air wasn’t quickly warm. Be fidgety of coming rain which could flush Hong Kong any time and of course could cancel my crazy plans on second day.

    The last shot at Garden of Stars before leaving it.

    Walk through along Salisbury Road which is full of skyscraper building projects.

    like streets in Jakarta….

    Continuing to saw compass needle direction in right hand and a map in left hand, I continued to find Star Ferry Pier which I knew iw was in left side of my steps.

    There are so many double deckers in Hong Kong. In Jakarta at that time there were only 10 units.

    Yess, I saw a orange clock tower. That is Hong Kong Clock Tower which is a marker for existence of Star Ferry Pier. I immediately turned left away from busy Salisbury Road.

    It was cool…. look like some clock towers in Europe.

    Star Ferry Pier gate was visible in front.

    Yes, that was…..

    Let’s go to that building! Wow, beautiful scenery awaits behind him.

    That green-white ship is Star Ferry which is referred to in this article.

    You just needed to tap your Octopus Card for entering waiting room in Star Ferry Pier. Ferry fare is USD 0,4 and it would take me to Central Ferry Pier on other side with a distance about 1 km and within 12 minutes.

    I was entering ferry waiting room.

    No need to long waiting, a ferry came and entered me into it.

    “Star Cruises” cruise ship….When do you board into a cruise ship?

    12 minutes later, I arrived at Central Ferry Pier on Hong Kong Island.

    Central Ferry Pier yard.

    The Hong Kong Observation Wheel is a destination outside of my itinerary. The shape is interesting, like Singapore Flyer or London Eye (Ups….hahaha) which makes me reluctant to miss it.

    The fare is USD 2,9.

    Meanwhile, AIA Vitality Park below it was very crowded by Hong Kong residents on that Friday. Maybe, because they were getting ready to welcome a coming weekend. Young families with their “young children were very happy in playing in a park which was turned into a game and some drinks and food stalls around it.

    Oh, beauty of Hong Kong.

  • Yuk Tengok….Senado Square

    Perjalananku bersama bus kota No 10A berakhir dengan terlewatnya Halte Bus Kam Pex Community Centre di bilangan Jalan Avenue de Almeida Riberio. Beruntung si pengemudi bus masih mau menurunkanku di sebuah pertigaan dengan pemandangan Hotel Ponte Cais 16 tepat di pusatnya.

    Halte Bus Kam Pex Community Centre.

    Resepsionis itu sepertinya anak si empunya hotel. Setiap pertanyaan yang kulempar selalu dijawabnya mudah, “Wait sir, I firtly ask to my mom”. Duh, enaknya tuh bocah dapat warisan hotel kelak….Hahaha

    Check in pun selesai setelah kuberikan Rp 220.000 untuk mendapatkan kunci kamar Hotel Villa Ka Meng.

    Semudah menjetikkan jari, tiba-tiba mataku melihat tulisan halal sebegitu besarnya di depan sebuah rumah makan. Dan terkejutnya, orang Tionghoa adalah si pemilik rumah makan itu. Rumah makan Loulan Islam namanya.

    Dengan senyum lebarnya, dia bertanya mau makan apa dan menawarkan menu dengan usaha sebegitu kerasnya. Telunjuk jarinya menari-nari menuliskan berbagai aksara China di udara. Gelak tawaku yang tak tertahan membuat seisi rumah makan tertawa riang. Memendam kantuk yang dari pagi tadi menggelayutiku.

    Aku membayarnya sedikit mahal dari standar harga street food yang biasa kuburu. Setidaknya mendapatkan referensi sajian halal di Macau.

    Melewati sisi kiri jalan….aku menuju Senado Square yang tinggal selemparan batu. Tapi sebelum benar-benar mencapainya, aku berhenti di sebuah money changer untuk menukarkan Dolar Amerika ke Dolar Macau.

    Tukarkan sedikit saja….Sisakan untuk mengeksplore Shenzen.

    Akhirnya aku menginjakkan kaki di Senado Square, destinasi kedua di Macau yang kukunjungi.

    Keunikan Senado Square adalah motif lantainya yang seolah bergelombang dan identik dengan warna putih hitam. Alun-alun yang penuh dengan turis ini benar-benar menunjukkan bahwa tempat ini merupakan warisan sejarah UNESCO. Tidaklah mengherankan atas keramaian itu.

    Bangunan-bangunan klasik yang menghiasi kiri kanan alun-alun itu menjadi sasaran empuk para pemilik kamera untuk mengabadikannya.

    St. Dominic’s Church.
    Museum bersejarah yang pernah berfungsi sebagai panti asuhan dan klinik kesehatan
    Balai kota Macau tempoe doeloe.

    Luasnya alun-alun membatasi kemampuanku untuk mengitarinya sekali saja dan kemudian terduduk di salah satu ujungnya lalu berteduh dari sengatan surya yang mulai meninggi.

    Turis China: “Malaysian?”. Seorang lelaki setengah baya menyapaku di bawah sebuah pohon yang mengurangi panasnya matahari.

    Aku: “Me?….Oh, I’m Indonesian”.

    Turis China: “Waaa…Indonesian. Nice country”.

    Aku: “Ever go to Indonesia?”.

    Turis China: “Yes….Bali, Medan and Batam”.

    Aku: “Great….How about Indonesia?”.

    Turis China: “I Like….I eat Nasi Padang there. Nice”.

    Aku: “Hahaha….Ya ya ya. The most delicious food in the world”.

    Turis China: “Ever go to China?“

    Aku: “Absolutely….I will go to Shenzen after my journey in Macau”.

    Turis China: “Ohhoo….Good good. Welcome to my country”.

    Aku: “Thanks Sir”

    Percakapan pun berakhir ketika seorang perempuan yang kuduga istrinya menghampiri dan mengajaknya melanjutkan eksplorasi Senado Square.

    Beberapa spot di Senado Square:

    Peta zona taxi.
    Taxi yang sedang menunggu penumpang.
    Geblek….Ngapain juga guwe motoin tuh tempat sampah.
    Telepon umum.
    Bus kota yang melewati Senado Square.

    So….If you go there when in Macau….Just enjoy it.

  • “The Dashing” Bank of China Tower and “The Face Savior” Starbucks

    “Bitter coffee suddenly became sweet….You was beautiful”.

    Setelah 1,5 jam menikmati The Hong Kong Observation Wheel dan AIA Vitality Park di sekitar Central Ferry Pier, akhirnya Aku mulai menyeberangi Connaught Road Central menuju Bank of China Tower (BOC Tower).

    Connaught Road Central which fluently.

    It wasn’t difficult to find that famous tower. Because from a distance, the building with a distinctive triangle frame was visible. The fourth tallest building in Hong Kong.

    Let’s go to entering BOC Tower.

    Whattt….All men/women who entering and out of the building looked handsome, beautiful, fashionable in a tie and metrosexual style….I momentarily stopped hesitating and watched its main door from a distance. OMG….No one looked like backpacker or tourist who entering it.

    Doubt…. Embarrassed….Nervous.

    Going in or not?????

    I would enter it…Step forward.

    Ups, I canceled my steps…. stopped and turning back.

    I must brave to entering it….Started to stepping again

    Waited….Stop stepping….Bowed to thinking …. Scratching my head #lookeddramatic.

    “You are timid, Donny….Come from far away, when arrive in destination then you run away….You must embarrassed with your jargon, Donny“, the heart whispered to the brain.

    “Embarrassed, bro….Crumpled t-shirt, dirty trousers don’t be change for 4 days, cheap shoes from sidewalk store, and my bag shoulder strap is torn….I think, it will be many tourists there….Apparently it isn’t“, my brain defended.

    “Yes, Donny…Can we directly go to Victoria Park? … Many Indonesians gather there” the heart confirmed.

    “Well, right, what did I say….Come on go to Victoria Park while it isn’t late….” the brain began to ally with heart.

    Finally,

    “I am salesmen, it should not have shame in my face”, my mouth began to kick out my heart and brain.

    executive man in tie and some blond haired expats strangely saw me when they entered building’s door. I smile as sweet as possible, hoping someone was interested in my exotic black skin….Hahaha.

    Test….Test….Practiced smile before entering. The door is on my right.

    —-****—-

    A few steps entering building, I stopped and stared at whole room…. Confidence…I looked for front desk location.

    Yes….That, in the middle of room.

    Me: “Can me ask?“….Oh, wrong question “Excuse me Miss, Can I get information about observation deck on 43th floor?“

    She: Ouch, smiling sweetly, “Hi sir, our observation deck was closed“

    Me: “Since when, Ms?“, My bad english, the important was she understood.

    She : “It closed since May 2015, Sir”.

    Me : “Oh Okay, Thanks you Ms”.

    She : “You are welcome Sir. Happy journey in Hong Kong. Where are you come from?“.

    Me : “I’m from Indonesia. Again, thank you for your kindness”……”Can me know where do you stay in Hong Kong?, I want to meet your parent”. #fictionquestion

    Failed in got destination but feeling contented in overcoming my own fears, I turned to leave the building.

    Suddenly….

    Braaaarrrrrrrrrrr……..

    Rain….Whatttt….What must I did?.

    All office employee went back into lobby. Imagine!, one backpacker style in the middle of a lot of tie and suits….God.

    —-****—-

    Okay….Okay….I looked around again.

    Ahhhhaaaaa….That, Starbucks at left of room. With my confidence, I stepped to Starbucks. #rememberwallet

    “You aren’t the only man who has money?” I arrogantly muttered…..Hahaha, I was sorry (tonight, I didn’t eat because of starbucks).

    There was a voice behind me….

    Beautiful blonde: “Hello, do you queueing?“.

    Me : “Oh No, I just seeing the menu. You can queue first”, God…..I too long thought to find the cheapest coffee prices in front of cashier.

    Beautiful blonde : “Oh thank you, handsome”.

    Me : “You are welcome, sweety”.

    Finally ordered a long black coffee for USD 2.

    Very Bitter….Just swallow it…… because of lots of style.

    Just sat in a row of empty chairs so that other people weren’t uncomfortable with my existence.

    Chairs was getting full because other people also drank coffee and waiting for the rain to stop. And my luck came.

    Bitter coffee suddenly became sweet….looked like sprinkled with 5 spoons of sugar. Because of she sat in front of me….

    “Slow down drinking, Donny“, Satan began to whisper.

    One sipping…..glancing……sipping again….then glancing again.

    Instead of just being stunned, It was better if I asked.

    Me : “Hi, Ms….Do you know WiFi password here?”

    She : “I’m sorry, I’m using my own Wifi”, while smiling.

    Me : “The hard hit” to me as free WiFi hunter….Hahaha.”Oh Ok, Thank you Ms”.

    No longer glancing and no longer asking. Pretending to enjoy coffee which is actually very bitter…. #whilewhistling.

    My silly adventure in the BOC Tower ended with quite a number of hooks and uppercuts….Sad.

    Rain had stopped….It was time to headed for Victoria Park. I exited the building and lunging at soft drizzle which exposed my face.

    Come on, using Ding Ding Tram!

  • 10 Hong Kong’s Tourist Attractions in 48 Hours

    Hong Kong is special administrative region of People’s Republic of China which was first region in East Asia I visited. I visited it in 2016.

    How is my feeling at that time?…. Unspeakable, first time I go out of Southeast Asia and be special achievement at that time.

    Why is that? … Flying to Hong Kong as soon as possible since becoming a traveler in 2011 is an easy matter. But that isn’t the essence, I am a combing traveler who visit one by one of region in a sequence and detail (so, you know my other strange habits now….crazy, don’t imitate!….Hahaha). So, here is it:

    Before completing Southeast Asia exploration, I will make sure that I willn’t travel to East Asia.

    Before completing East Asia exploration then I willn’t go to South Asia.

    Similarly….Before completing South Asia exploration, I won’t step on Middle East region.

    Already….enough, because I am on mission for completing Middle East exploration…. Do not ask me to write about Europe!….I don’t have experience yet about Europe exploration….Hahaha.

    —-****—-

    Back about Hong Kong. Oh yes, my last post about Hong Kong on this blog is at following link:

    https://travelingpersecond.wordpress.com/2018/03/11/big-buddha-tian-tan-buddha-and-disneyland-hong-kong/

    Well, In this article I will tell you what I visited while in Hong Kong. All unique incidents, I will tell you its details one by one after this article yes.…

    Here are ten main destinations where I visited:

    1. Hong Kong International Airport.

    First day on 7:13 hours

    Do you know?. Last August 2019, Hong Kong International Airport was totally paralyzed because it was occupied by pro-democracy masses who rejected The Hong Kong Extradition Bill.

    When I watched TV, I remembered when I landed at this airport on January 4, 2016. My memory was still strong, at that time without bathing for 24 hours, I boarded Cebu Pacific flight number 5J 108 from Ninoy Aquino International Airport, Manila.

    Look at my face…. Can you believe that I don’t take a bath for 24 hours?

    Do you trust me more? that small backpack was the only backpack which I brought in traveling to Manila-Hong Kong-Macao-Shenzhen for 10 days. Look like playing to near cities, right?….Hahaha.

    2. Tian Tan Buddha

    First day on 10:13 hours

    From airport, I didn’t directly go to hotel….It wasn’t luxury traveling. I moved towards Lantau Island (you need to know that Hong Kong consists of 3 main islands namely Lantau, Kowloon and Hong Kong).

    Using S56 double-decker bus to Tung Chung Station and continue with bus no 23 to Tian Tan Buddha.`

    If you go to Hong Kong, you must come here. Because this is the largest bronze statue in the world with a height of 34 meters and tangible as Sitting Buddha. It was built 26 years ago as a center for Buddhism activities in Hong Kong.

    Not taking a shower for 24 hours….Still handsome….Hahaha, I am very confident.

    3. Hong Kong Disneyland

    First day on 13:37 hours

    Don’t rush to move from Lantau Island, within 33 km range and 35 minutes travel time, you can visit Hong Kong Disneyland.

    Likewise me, I left Tian Tan Buddha for Tung Chung Station again then took Tung Chung Line MTR (Mass Transit Railway) and changed to MTR Disneyland Resort Line at Sunny Bay Station to reached this destination.

    Opened in 2005, Hong Kong Disneyland is the largest theme park in Hong Kong. Just prepare USD 74 to enter into it.

    Upss….Belly button.

    4. Kowloon Walled City Park

    First day on 18:37 hours

    Leaving Hong Kong Disneyland, I completed check-in process at Hong Kong Taiwan Hotel which located in 3rd floor Chungking Mansions Building. Hotel which costs USD 19,5 per night, is located on Nathan Road 36-44.

    Finally found a halal food stall owned by Indian descent residents of on 1st floor. After a very late lunch, I headed for Kowloon Walled City Park which was built in a former of densely populated residential area with crime that was hard to eradicate by Hong Kong police.

    Departed from Tsim Sha Tsui Station towards Lok Fu Station. From this station, you only need to walk about 1 km to Kowloon Walled City Park along Junction Road with 15 minutes travel time.

    The park is quite dark at night.

    5. Ladies Market

    Fisrt day on 20:15 hours

    From Lok Fu Station, I headed to Mong Kok Station for USD 0,7.

    Ladies Market, located on Tung Choi Street, is a famous souvenir market in Hong Kong. You who are good at bargaining for goods must shop here. Me?….No, I was just sightseeing.

    Ladies Market operating hours: 11:00 – 23:30.

    6. Avenue of the Stars

    Second day on 09:45 hours

    Avenue of the stars is a 400-meter-long bridge plaza on north side of Victoria Harbor, made to resemble Hollywood’s “Walk of Fame,” built to celebrate the success of Hong Kong Film Industry. Decorated by statues of famous Hong Kong artists and film directors, their handprints and several sculptures which depicting filmmaking activities in Hong Kong.

    When I arrived in Hong Kong, Avenue of Stars was undergoing renovation so that all statues were transported and exhibited in a park called Garden of Stars at Salisbury Road.

    Since renovation have been completed at this time, all statues and handprints have been moved back to edge of Victoria Harbor. And of course, its location had better appearance.

    Just need to walk from hotel where I stayed to go to Garden of Stars.

    Ciaaaaaatttt……

    7. The Hong Kong Observation Wheel dan AIA Vitality Park.

    Second day on 11:20 hours

    Located in front of Central Ferry Pier on Hong Kong Island. This 60 meter high ferris wheel has 42 gondolas as a medium of Hong Kong observation from a height. Just need to spend USD 3 to ride it

    While AIA Vitality Park is directly below it. This park is commonly used for sports, concerts and festivals. When I was there, there was a festival to celebrating Christmas and New Year 2018 in this park.

    8. Bank of China Tower

    Second day on 12:45 hours.

    Bank of China Tower is a famous landmark on Hong Kong Island. Because of its popularity, it was often made as souvenirs which were sold throughout Hong Kong.

    BOC Tower is located on Garden Road and it’s headquarters Bank of China (Hong Kong) Limited. With a height of 367 meters, making it as fourth tallest building in Hong Kong.

    On 43rd floor, It has an observation deck which was originally opened for tourists so that they can see whole city from above. But unfortunately, when I arrived there, this facility was closed to public. Upss….I wasn’t lucky.

    Then what did I do in the tower for 2 hours?….Read my post after this! ….Hahaha

    That’s the tower….has typical triangular frame.

    9. Wan Chai District

    Second day on 17:30 hours

    Upss….this is prostitution area….Oh, What are you doing, Donny!…. Hahaha.

    Eittt, don’t get me wrong….Wan Chai is a backpacker area on Hong Kong Island. I am a good man….I wasn’t staying here (my hotel is in Kowloon Island)….I was just sightseeing here….Hohoho.

    Yes….I initially mean to go to Victoria Park which is a gathering place for Indonesian migrant workers….Maybe, my face look like a migrant worker, so maybe they will give free food for my dinner….Hahaha.

    I was too far from that park when I got off Ding Ding Tram….Because it was heavily raining and I couldn’t find the way to that park, then I stopped by for a moment at center of Wan Chai District where food prices were cheap….I was very hungry.

    It was true….there were many pubs with super sexy women….I was very nervous….Hahaha.

    Situation at Henessy Road, Wan Chai District

    10. Symphony of Lights

    Second day on 19:55 hours

    Symponhy of Lights is a show of light and sound which emitted from 42 skyscraper buildings at Victoria Harbor. Leaving Wan Chai District, I stopped by here before returning to hotel. It was my last night in Hong Kong because on next day I would sail to Macao.

    Then….Who has ever been a backpacker to Hong Kong?….Hahaha.

  • 5 Destinasi Wisata Macau dalam 24 jam

    Macau adalah negara ke-10 yang kukunjungi. Berawal dari tersangkutnya hasrat pada tiket promo senilai Rp. 512.000 milik Cebu Pacific yang mengantarkanku secara tak sengaja di Manila. Dan daripada membeli tiket balik dari Manila yang sangat mahal maka lebih baik pulang dari Shenzen saja karena Tiger Air menawarkan tiket kelewat murah.

    Dalam perjalanan Manila menuju Shenzen itulah, aku terdampar di Hong Kong dan Macau. Untungnya tak lama….Hanya 48 jam di Hong Kong dan 24 Jam di Macau.

    Setelah menulis kisah 48 jam selama di Hong Kong maka kali ini Aku akan bercerita tentang apa saja yang kukunjungi selama 24 jam di Macau.

    1. Outer Harbour Ferry Terminal

    Momen itu tiba seiring pilihanku menggunakan TurboJet Ferry ketika meninggalkan Hong Kong. Tepat pukul 08:55 dengan jarak sekitar 70 km dari Hong Kong, aku tiba di terminal ferry  yang terletak di bagian timur pulau Macau itu.

    Dibagian luar bangunan, pelabuhan ini berpapan nama dalam bahasa Portugis yaitu Terminal Maritimo de Passageiros do Porto Exterior. Tulisan berbahasa Portugis sangat biasa terlihat di seluruh Macau. Hal ini dikarenakan selama 4 abad, China menyewakan Macau kepada Portugis untuk digunakan sebagai pelabuhan perdagangan.

    Jika di google maps ada istilah Macau Maritime Ferry Terminal, Macau Ferry Terminal atau Hong Kong Macau Ferry Pier maka itu adalah nama yang berbeda untuk satu tempat yang sama yaitu Outer Harbour Ferry Terminal.

    Jadi jika kamu berlabuh di terminal ferry ini maka nikmati sajalah keberadaannya.

    2. Senado Square

    Aku sengaja memilih dormitory di dekat kompleks Ruins St. Paul. Karena di kompleks ini ada dua destinasi wisata terkemuka yaitu Ruins St. Paul itu sendiri dan Senado Square. Sehingga Aku bisa leluasa menjelajah keduanya dengan berjalan kaki.

    Segera menitipkan backpack ke Villa Ka Meng Hotel begitu menuruni bus di jalanan Avenue de Almeida Ribeiro dekat dengan  Ponte Cais No 16. Dan setalah menikmati sarapan pagi di rumah makan Loulan Islam, aku bergegas menuju Senado Square

    Senado Square sendiri merupakan alun-alun yang dibangun sejak 1918. Adalah shopping tourism untuk para pemburu barang ber merk hingga penikmat jajanan kaki lima. Menjadi salah satu warisan UNESCO, Senado Square menawarkan pemandangan bangunan-bangunan klasik perpaduan budaya Tiongkok dan Portugis si sepanjang sisinya.

    3. Ruins St. Paul

    Meninggalkan Senado Square maka destinasi terdekat yang kukunjungi berikutnya merupakan reruntuhan sebuah katedral yang bernama Ruins st Paul. Kalau Kamu ke Macau dan belum berfoto didepan Ruin St Paul, maka perjalananmu serasa tidak syah. Karenanya tempat ini menjadi tempat teramai yang dikunjungi turis selama kunjunganku ke Macau

    Ruis St. Paul awalnya adalah katedral Portugis yang dibangun pada abd ke-16. Juga menjadi warisan sejarah dunia UNESCO setelah menjadi cagar sejarah pasca kebakaran hebat pada tahun 1959. Bagian ikonik yang sering dijadikan obyek foto para turis adalah bagian pintu depan katedral yang tersisa.

    4. Macau Tower

    Ruis St. Paul menuju Macau Tower adalah rute yang membuatku tersangkut selama beberapa waktu di jalanan Avenue Da Praia Grande. Mensiasati rute bus Macau yang begitu rumit dan masif, akhirnya aku berhasil menemukan halte bus yang disinggahi oleh bus kota no 9A menuju Macau Tower.

    Menara setinggi 338 meter ini menawarkan wisata observation deck, restoran, teater, mall dan kegiatan bungee jumping. Sementara dibagian taman tersedia plaza dan kolam untuk kegiatan olahraga atau hanya sekedar menghabiskan waktu di sore hari bagi para warga Macau.

    5. Venetian

    Bayangan kemegahan Venetian membuat keberadaanku di Macau Tower tak begitu khusyuk. Aku seakan-akan terburu-buru untuk segera menikmati Venetian. Rasa penasaran untuk memasuki ruangan casino terbesar di Macau bahkan salah satu terbesar di dunia, membuatku ingin segera menuju kesana. Selain casino, satu hal yang selalu kuingat tentang Venetian adalah Gondola Rides yang akan membawa kita ke nuansa pariwisata Venice, Italia.

    Merupakan integrasi dua fungsi yaitu hotel mewah dan casino. Bangunan 39 lantai ini terletak di pulau reklamasi Cotai dan berafiliasi dengan The Venetian Las Vegas.

    Dannnnn….Kelima destinasi itu hanya kuselesaikan dalam 14 jam eksplorasi di Macau. Selebihnya waktu kugunakan untuk tidur di hotel untuk memulihkan kondisi tubuh pasca beberapa hari sebelumnya mengekplorasi Manila dan Hong Kong.

    It is very crazy….