SideStrip SnapShots: Our Legoland Adventure in Johor Bahru, Malaysia

LEGOLAND, Johor Bahru, Malaysia was quite an experience for me and my friends. We had booked a travel and tour van from Singapore that took us through the traffic and guided us through customs to get to Legoland Malaysia which is what I would recommend for most people that are traveling in big groups such as us rather then go through the hassles of bus travel and commuting by car which I have to say if you had seen what we saw during the weekend trip to Johor Bahru you'd most likely regret it. The vehicle lanes are divided between cars and buses/vans. 

Based on our experience we saw that the bus/van lanes would be zipping through the traffic while those in cars would be bumper to bumper. We were able to get our van service which took us to Legoland from Singapore and back for only SGD 119 each for a group of 7 people including the entrance to Legoland and Sanrio Town. For those on a budget and are a bit more adventurous you can take the Bus routes as taking a cab from Singapore to bring you to Legoland will most likely cost you a fortune not counting the traffic. I would recommend to try out the travel and tours group called WTS Travel and Tours to book your Legoland Adventure, they'll require you to make a trip to Woodland Singapore which is quite a distance from Orchard. 

It was quite fun to be honest when we had to Hop Off to get through Singapore Immigration to get our exit stamps then Hop On again to cross the bridge over to the Malaysian side to get stamped for entry into Malaysia. The lines at both immigration were pretty quick and they seem quite used to the influx of people that come from either side of the border.

Once we got to Legoland Malaysia, our major concern at first was where to get to change money into RM from SGD. Luckily for us there were several establishments that accepted Singapore Dollars as payment though the exchange rate would most likely be a bit higher than the going market value. Legoland itself would accept Singapore or RM for payment of items that you would wish to buy. There aren't that many restaurants at the mall outside of Legoland but they all seem quite good enough to satisfy a hungry traveler for lunch and prices are generally quite cheaper than what one would normally spend for lunch in Singapore.

We had gone to Legoland Malaysia on a Saturday and was expecting a long line, such as that of what we experienced in Universal Studios Singapore, but to our surprise there wasn't a line at all. To be honest, we were even surprised that there wasn't that many people at the Legoland Theme park considering the massive size of the place. One thing to take note of though is that we realized how extremely hot the place was and had to buy umbrellas each as protection from the sun. If you brought your kids with you, I would strongly recommend preparing to bring a cap and other protective gear as they would most likely suffer from the immense heat of the place.

The rest of what I experienced you'll find from the photos below:

This is the entrance to Legoland, as you can see there was hardly anyone at the entrance considering that this is a popular travel destination. I guess we might have gotten lucky on this weekend. 

You'd get to see many of these Lego people in the entire Theme Park, all of which are quite amusing and of course deems a self photo to show them off. 

This was our first stop when we entered into Legoland, as we realized how extremely hot and humid the place was. Here we got ourselves an umbrella with the Lego logo on it and couple of drinks to keep us from getting dehydrated as we prepare to explore the massive place. 

This was quite an amusing Lego Person as you get to sit beside him, you'll hear his subtle snore as he sleeps off the heat wave of Legoland. 

Luckily we got to get a photo op with a Lego Mascot for the day and he seemed quite jolly enough to be candid with us Lego Crazy people. 

The Lego shop was quite a treat for us all, It provided us a place to grab items that we had been looking for here in the Philippines at a much cheaper price and at the same time provide us with a cool shelter from the heat wave outside. (We have noted though that between Legoland Malaysia and Singapore Toy stores, The Toy Stores in Singapore seem to be a bit lower in pricing for several of the items plus GST, so if you are shopping check first in Singapore before heading off here to compare)

The first ride we took was the Lego Train that would take us around Legoland allowing us a preview of what is to come of our Legoland Adventure. 

It just couldn't be helped, the heat wave was unbearable for many. Though once the trees have fully matured am sure this wont be much of a problem. Be sure to grab a map at the Legoland store to help with directions. Here we are heading to the Legland Train Station. 

Along the way we got to see some of the cool attractions such as this boat Legoland boat ride

Your kids can also stop over at this place to get to learn how to drive a Lego Car - Sorry for you older folks, this is a kids only zone as their cars won't be able to accommodate a full grown adult. I got envious too hehe

Here we all are waiting for our Lego Train to bring us around. As you can see we all made sure that we were wearing the Lego colors to proudly show how much of a legonatic we all were :) 

More photo ops as we get to rest our legs a bit and take in the scenic view of Legoland

In the train ride we already get to see a glimpse of the different Lego city structures to visit later within the day. We decided to wait till late in the afternoon to walk around that place to avoid getting a heat stroke.

Who is this peeping tom? On the train ride I was able to capture this naughty voyeur as he tries to peep around for birds :) pretty cool Lego People can be found all around Legoland, best to keep an eye out for them.

The train gave us a better view of the Lego Boat Ride. Its a good workout, just watch the heat.

Here you get to see the kids getting ready for their driving lessons. Pretty amazing course and I think it is a lot of fun, just wish they did one for the older kids like me :) 

There are also lots of playgrounds for kids to enjoy if ever the parents want to rest up a bit and recover from all that walking. Though cause of the heat that day I don't think anyone was up for game of chase and slide at that moment.

Meet Mr. Lego Chef, he'll be the Lego person welcoming you to his restaurant run by the ever trusty Lego Crew, Food here is good enough for the hungry. It also is a good shelter from the heat while giving its diners a place to rest up a bit before heading out further into Legoland

Here is another Lego person that wants to say hi. He's in-charge of construction and supplies. Dont forget to greet him when you get to Legoland Malaysia too.

As you can see, there are many lego people working away to make sure you have a good lunch :) The place does get a bit full, but finding a place to sit down isn't so hard and people seem to be quite friendly.

Lego Chef is playing around with me as I prepare to head off to the rest of Legoland. Dont forget to say hi to him too when you get there. 

This is every boy's dream, to be able to use a lego forklift :) Plus its a good photo opportunity :) 

There is usually a live Lego Show though for this day unfortunately we didn't get to watch. 

Here you get to see the very diligent Lego Fire Men, though dont expect them to relieve you from the  heatwave, that's something you'll have to deal with yourself :) 

Kids can get to ride the Lego Plane here as it spins around in a merry go round fashion to their hearts content.

The Lost Kingdom Adventure was what we all were eagerly willing to ride as here you get to compete with your comrades with the most number of points from the laser shooting ride. Dont expect much though in terms of scream fest as this is not one that'll be bouncing you around. 

Ancient Lego Relics always give a good reason to stop and get your photo game face on :) Especially since the line tends to be a bit long for this ride. 

Aha!! Who is this naughty Lego Explorer trying to hide from us :) 

Think the Egyptologists can figure out what this Ancient Lego Civilization was trying to convey to us unweary mortals? :) 

The river log ride is something you shouldn't miss, though do prepare ahead of time as you will most definitely get wet.

Another Ancient Lego Relic, pretty well done, wonder how many centuries did it take to make :) 

There are many adventure games with prizes all over Legoland that you and your family can try out. Some offer a guarantee that you'll go home with a prize. To play you'll have to spend though as this isn't covered in your ticket. 

Here we head off to the land of imagination as our next adventure would be leading us to the the 4D theater. 

Poly want a Lego? :) These too make funny noises but is quite amusing even for the older kids like me :) 

Here you can find that there is a day care area for your younger kids just in case you'll need to go off on the rides that require you to be of adult size :) 

Goofing around as we explore the many lego structures of Animals and Dinosaurs in the Area of Imagination.

Watch out for this one as that Dino sprays water :) 

Off to 4D theater, there are different shows every hour I believe but we simply watched just one. It was a great place to get cooled off literally and figuratively once inside. Just watch your gadgets as things could get a little wet inside.

Here we are to get a tower view of Legoland. It spins a full 360 degrees once you get to the peak of the tower. So if you are afraid of heights, this shouldn't be part of your agenda. 

Time for another photo opportunity as we rise to the top literally :) 

The view is quite amazing as you get to see the whole area from up top. 

Next stop was a place to rest up a bit and get to play around with some lego blocks. Here you get to build your lego structures, race them or even test the lego building you've made with their earthquake simulator.

This is the earthquake testing booth. Here Lego Builders get to put their structures to the test. You can adjust the magnitude and intensity of the quake and watch as you hope that your structure gets to hold strong.

This one is a ride where you literally have to pull up your own weight. I suggest to use gloves to avoid getting blisters but still quite fun especially when you reach the top and let it all go :) 

As the others prepare to pull their own weight, I got some time to goof around with Mr. Kangaroo Jack. :) 

Here you can see my friends arguing/strategizing on who gets to pull first :) 

A quick photo opportunity settles the dispute, at least for the mean time :) 

Hello to everyone from Mr Lego Blacksmith. :) He has taken time out from his busy schedule to allow me the opportunity to get this shot with him :) 

Here we go the land of the Green Dragon. This is where you can catch the Green Dragon Ride that is sure to get your adrenaline pumping. There is also a Wee Market Place for your Lego Buying pleasure. 

Haha my friend is an expert photo bomber :) 

Enter the Castle to tame the Green Dragon if you dare :) 

Nothing better than a cold wet towel to cool off from the heat wave of the day. 

This is my last thrill ride of the day :) Trust me I found myself screaming all throughout the ride.

You get to check out the Lego Robotics here at Mindstorms, right Mr  Lego Robo? :) 

Presenting Project X of Technic, the Roller Coaster ride that just made me leave my stomach somewhere up there :) 

Mr Legopuss looking onward as I bravely take my step into the what would be my last ride of the day. 

It was those wicked turns that just left me feeling like I would be hanging on to dear life :) 

We just had to get our photo with the Lego Master Artist :) 

The following are the amazing Lego Structures that just amazed us all. It was all so life like and well built. The details with each collection was incredibly accurate to what one would see in the real world.

I just couldn't resist, had to have myself included, It really makes it look like i'm on top of a building somewhere with these buildings down below :) 

I just love the detail on even the smallest things :) 

Now I really feel like I went to Malaysia :) 

Amazing how life like the structures are. 

Lego People busy with road repairs :) 

The Real Life Construction in the background just adds more to the life like lego structures being displayed here in Legoland Malaysia

Sad, no Cebu Pacific or Philippine Airlines here. But this Airport Lego Structure is simply amazing.

I felt like a shipping mogul with this shot :) Amazing detail for everything from ship to crates :) 

The Taj Mahal was my favorite of all the Lego Structures 

Just like I was really in Singapore :) 

Looks almost like the real Tiananmen Square

My Favorite of them all, wishing to get the chance to go there soon.

I love this Thai Temple Lego Structure, it looks so serene and even the Angkor Wat temple below is just as amazing.

Of course it wouldn't be complete with a little old school seaport :) just watch out for pirates!!!

Beautiful Rendition of a European Fishing Village

The actual Construction in the backdrop just makes things look

This is my second Fave (a little bit biased but heck it represent the Philippines) You have got to admit it does bring out that back water charm that most fishing villages have in the Philippines.

I really loved Legoland, the only downside to it all was just the heat and lack of cover and protection from the harsh elements. Had it rained that day it would have been a downer. Thankfully it didn't rain that day and the afternoon came to Legoland quickly. Would I recommend this to everyone? I would probably recommend it to those that haven't been to Legoland in Europe, and of course to Lego Fanatics. I also wouldn't set the standards too high in terms of theme park expectations as given that it is still new and there is still a bit of learning curve for both the staff and the fact that the place still needs a bit of sprucing up. Overall it was a pleasant experience for all of us.

Till Next Time...

-Metz-

Six Airline Passenger Rights That You Should Remember

The Air Passenger Bill of Rights which took effect last December 21, 2012, signed by Transportation Secretary Joseph Emilio Abaya and Trade Secretary Gregorio Domingo, sets guidelines on several airline practices, such overbooking, rebooking, ticket refunds, cancelled and delayed flights, lost luggage and misleading advertisements on fares, all of which are top causes of passenger complaints in 2011. 

Here are the things you should take note of before you engage and book that flight: 

Full Disclosure

The first is Airlines are compelled to fully disclose to passengers both in print and verbally what is at stake when they rebook flights, refund tickets, impose conditions on baggage allowances, check-in policies, and their promotional fares. 

These conditions of the fare must be printed when airlines issue passenger tickets or boarding passes and must be delivered electronically when tickets are bought online. It should also be verbally explained to the passenger in English or in Filipino with emphasis on the limitations or restrictions attached to the ticket. 

Promotional fares also should include the number of seats offered on a per sector basis and not just the promotional duration. 

The following are the provisions in the Airline Passenger Bill of rights that outlines the compensation passengers should receive. 

Check-in

If you arrive within the designated check-in area at least one hour before the flight's published time of departure, you will not be considered late and the carrier is obliged to make sure you are checked in within the deadline. (This is where web check-in services come in handy, especially if you feel that you might be a bit late. Plus it allows you to zip through the long check in lines that are usually happening with budget airlines)

Overbooked flights

An airline is allowed to overbook a flight, an industry practice of selling more than the seats the aircraft has, based on for a specific flight, as long as the passengers who are bumped off do so voluntarily.

If you volunteer to choose a different flight, the airline will offer you compensation in the form of amenities or cash incentives.

If the number of volunteers is not enough to resolve the overbooking, the airline is mandated to increase the compensation package by adding more services until the required number of volunteers is met.

Lost Luggage or Off Loaded Luggage

The Airlines covered by this bill includes both local and foreign Airlines. 

For lost luggages, airlines will have to compensate passengers P2,000 for every day that a bag is missing. After 7 days, that bag will be deemed lost and the passenger will be compensated based on "relevant convention." (I wonder if this covers umbrellas that get lost, such as what had happened to me and my friends last week in our flight back from Singapore with Cebu Pacific Airlines, something that I shall be checking on shortly)

Delayed flights

Airlines are required to provide free food, drinks, Internet access, phone use and, in extreme circumstances, hotel lodging until the flight departs. (I feel that there are a lot of free meals that were due to me and my friends, luckily this wasn't in effect back then)

The flight is considered cancelled if it is delayed at least 6 hours after the original departure time. You have the right to be compensated accordingly. 

Flight cancellation

If your flight is cancelled, you have to be notified in advance via public announcement or written notice such as through a text message. (It would be best to subscribe or follow an Airline's twitter account as they normally announce these notices through there)

If an air carrier cancels the flight because of unavoidable circumstances, safety or security reasons the passenger shall have the right to be reimbursed for the full value of the fare.

I personally am happy that there has been a move by our government with regards to the our rights as Airline Passengers. The only thing left is for us to show vigilance that this is being fully implemented and if not make them aware that we know our rights well.

If you have had an experience that are related to this topic, I strongly encourage for you to share it with us here. Simply leave it at the comments area. Your story can eventually help others that are experiencing the same thing, plus it allows us to keep track if this bill is being implemented and upheld properly.

Till Next Time...

-Metz-

Ramos Blue Devil W30 HD - Best 10" Budget Tablet

I am quite a big fan of budget tablets from brands that are not popular in the mainstream market. Ainol being one of them, as they have released tablets that have specs that are just quite amazing. Following the launch of their 7" Android Tablets, Ainol Novo 7 Venus, that rivaled even that of the Google Nexus 7 now have a ten inch tablet model that is worthy to compete even with Samsung's Tab 10.1 series minus that of the stylus.

EGL Marketing Corporation, the local importer of the Ainol tablet, has just officially announced the Blue Devil W30 Warlock. The Blue Devil W30 Warlock (also known as the Ramos W30 Warlock), is a 10.1″ quad-core tablet that rocks the SAMSUNG Exynos 4412 ARM CPU and the quad-core Mali 400 GPU. It’s the same quad core chipset that powers theSamsung Galaxy S3.

Here are the specs

• Quad Core Samsung Exynos 4412 
• quad core mali 400 gpu 
• 10.1 inch 1920 x 1200 ips screen 
• 2gb ddr3 ram 
• 32gb internal memory 
• 10.1 inch android 4.0 ics aluminum shell built 
• exp to 32gb micro sd bluetooth enabled 
• 5400 mah li-on dual camera 0.3 front 2.0 rear
• Php 14,999.00

I still have yet to get a chance to get to do a full review of the tablet as I haven't gotten my hands on a test unit but just basing it on the specs alone that practically comes from the same specs that powers the Samsung Galaxy S3 plus 2Gb of RAM and 32 GB of internal memory I am pretty sure you won't get disappointed with this tablet at all. Though the only points that I would most likely put scrutiny on with this would be it's camera, but the battery and build are pretty good trade-offs. Added to the ability to use  an external memory card of 32GB you are sure to have no issue with the amount of applications and files you can save in this 10" tablet monstrosity.

Till I get the chance to fully review the Ramos Blue Devil W30 HD, we have to rely on the spec sheets released by Ainol for the meantime. I'll update this article with a full review by the time I get to play around with the device first hand. In the meantime, if you have any experience with this device, I would most strongly request to share your experience with it right here at the comments field.

Till Next Time...

-Metz-