The Human Bodies Exhibition at The Venetian Macao

ABBEY: When I was a kid, I like viewing the pictures of human anatomy on encyclopedias complete with the transparent pages as if you are dissecting it layer by layer. The Human Bodies was exhibited at the Science Museum in Singapore. Due to lack of time and the ticket is expensive, we didn't go there. We went to Venetian hotel as part of our Macau trip. We were surprised that they are selling tickets for the display at a low price; 360HKD including Titanic. 

It started by Dr. Gunther von Hagens. The displays were patients who donated to have their bodies used for science and for others to know more about our body. He uses a technique preserving the human body called plastination; wherein the body will last longer than putting formalin alone. Some bodies shows only muscles, bones, and nerves. The exhibit shows also the different systems like reproductive, and digestive systems. 

One particular display caught my attention; it is a preserved womb of a woman including a child. Others exhibits a healthy and worn out (with disease) part of the body like kidney, lungs, heart, breast and liver. This made me realize to take care of own "machine" as well. The last display is the whole body cut into sections wherein you can see all what is inside. This is a good learning tool for all the visitors of the museum.

WILL: Abraham and our registered nurse friend really wants to see the exhibit when visited Singapore but I am not fond in exploring human body parts but due when we saw the promotion by The Venetian Macao, Abbey and I decided to grab the offer. 

      The bodies undergone in a "plastination". A jaw-dropping showcase was right before me. The skin was stripped open for the visitors to look what the ordinary people can't see. 

      Muscles, bones, veins, respiratory and reproductive was artistically positioned for us to see whats underneath ourselves. 

      Even if you are not a medical practitioner or student, you shouldn't let this pass. Very informative.  

Titanic - The Exhibition (Macau)

ABBEY: The ticket for this exhibit is expensive when they curated in Singapore. So we took the chance when it was shown in Venetian Hotel at Macau. The ticket was priced at HKD120 but at HKD180 you can visit the Human Body Exhibition as well. 

It was presented as if your boarding the Titanic. First is the tickets or passes along with the guests records and facts about other loads like foods and cars. Once onboard the ship they replicated the famous white corridor; you can't get through the door though. Next is the china wares used in the ship. Then came the grand staircase. You can strike a pose like Jack and Rose here. Then it became pitch black with only stars and little amount of light from inside the ship. That's when the iceberg hit Titanic. A chamber with a wall of ice was displayed allowed the visitors to feel how cold zero degree celsius. The challenge is how long you can stick your hand in it. If its cold for you then imagine how the victims experience when their bodies were soaked in water with a temperature lower than that. 

At the beginning of the exhibit a card was given to each guests that depicts a boarding pass with actual names of the passengers who boarded the Titanic. At the end a long lists survivors and deaths were on the walls. You can check if you survived the tragedy or not.

WILL: When Titanic Exhibit went here in Singapore last 2012, I never want to go there. Why? For me it is just a waste of $24 to see the artifacts of a ship.

      When we visited Macau last February, we saw that The Venetian Macao offers the tickets for its 2 exhibits, Titanic and Human Bodies for only HK$180.00 (SGD 28.25), really cheaper! So after our lunch at Sands Macau we boarded the shuttle bus that will bring us directly to The Ventian Macao. As the casino was flooded by tourists, we are hoping that the exhibition will be serene.

      High hopes... When we entered the Titanic Exhibition, you can count by fingers the visitors. You can take your time to read all the facts about the luxurious ship. How it came to life, how it sailed, and how magnificent the body of this vessel.

     Goosebumps all-over when we entered a room that showcased the viewing deck of the ship and the stars somewhat glimmers in a very dark night. Also showcased here the cabin of different classes. We have a chance to have a photo of the famous grand staircase. There's also a kind-a-iceberg which you have a chance to feel how cold and how hard the kind of ice that ripped open the metals of the "unsinkable" ship. 

     This is a great experience. Hmmm? Titanic II? Hopefully we can get on board ;) 

Macau Wine Museum

ABBEY: This museum comes side by side with Grand Prix museum. It curates the origin and evolution of wine-making. But as the wine story goes, it only tells that wine can be made best by squeezing the grapes by traditional "foot" press. It also shows how the barrels are made and the process of making wine from picking the grapes until its fermentation. 

A video depicts a number of men in a tub of grapes singing and merry-making while pressing the grapes. Its a form of entertainment as they will be there for hours. Galas and robes worn in different countries as members of wine association were also displayed.

WILL: Macau Wine Museum is just opposite with Grand Prix Museum and we never let the opportunity pass.
      As you enter the place, you can see a cart filled with grapes. Then photos from the past explains how the wine was done, the difference of wine from beers. 
     Barrels are everywhere and there also a video portraying how they the people stomp their feet to get the fresh juice from grapes. 
     You can go for wine tasting for a a minimal fee of HKD$5. 

Macau Grand Prix Museum

ABBEY: We were preparing to join Singapore GP contests to win Pit Stop tickets so we planned to visit F3 Grand Prix museum in Macau. It is located in the basement of Tourism Activities Center - CAT. The entrance was free as celebration of Chinese New Year.

It showcases F3 cars of different countries, history and development of the race. One Macau resident, Teddy Yip, is very enthusiastic and supportive of the event. It also exhibits the jumpsuit of the oldest FIA consultant, John Corsmit. Along with the suit is his death mask. We also had the chance to play a simulated game and this is for free also. Motorbikes were also exhibited in the museum. 

WILL: I know that Macau is famous for its high-end hotels and casinos, but we don't go there to relax in a comfy room or play slots, we are there to see the country itself, and where to go other that that?... Museums!

      I am fond of going to museums, and I am glad that this country offers a lot for us to visit. After meeting up with Abbey's bestfriend, Jennee, we immediately go to Grand Prix Museum which is located at Rua Luis Gonzaga Gomes. Free entrance and free one shot for simulator. I am fan of racing cars, influenced by my brothers, that's why I am very eager to see this place.

     Here they showcase the uniforms of the drivers, cars, motorcycles, and even the great names behind ever race. We really enjoyed exploring this. This place is a must see for every tourist in Macau.

TurboJET (Hong Kong - Macau)

ABBEY: This is the vehicle that drove us to Macau (an hour ride from Hongkong). One way ticket costs 160hkd. The ferry is spacious and has comfy seats. The ride is smooth and we arrived safely to Macau. 

The attendant who distributes the embarkation card is kind of annoying though. Some people didn't understand what he is saying  (Forn-ner which he means foreigner) and he came back to those people telling that it is a simple English. If he could speak it more clearly then he'll be more understandable. 

WILL: This is the most popular way to go from Hong Kong to Macau. When we saw the queue, I perspired a lot and fearful that we might not get a ticket for our voyage. Every window we ask if there's available seat for two, my prayer was answered when Turbo Jet opened for a new schedule and the boat will be leaving in an hour time. 
      As we set our foot at the ship, we were happy to see a clean and comfortable seat for everybody. I sat happily and closed my eyes. Suddenly, Abbey is poking me telling me that we reached Macau. The sail is peaceful indeed and its just an hour ride. Thanks for Bonamine for taking out the sea sickness in me. 
      Turbo Jet is very recommendable. Check this out once you planned hoping between Hong Kong and Macau.  

Snoopy’s World at New Town Plaza

ABBEY: When Denise knew that we didn't follow her itinerary for our second day, she informed Wilma that we can visit Snoopy World outside the 3rd floor of New Town Plaza. This mall is integrated to Sha Tin MTR station. The entrance is the famous Snoopy's dog house with red roof. The Birchwood school is there as well as the school bus and also the playground. Along with other structures were the bank, post office and a diner. Kids can row a boat in the water path. I felt like a child upon meeting Snoopy, Charlie Brown and the gang. This attraction is for free.

WILL: We were shocked when we walked our way  to TST Promenade. There were so many people already positioned their cameras for the most awaited fireworks display of the year. Too many people paving their ways and looking for a right spot for them, so we decided after seeing the hand prints of Hong Kong's famous stars, we directly went to the opposite hotel, Shangri-La Hong Kong.

     While sipping a cup of tea and coffee, we keep on updating my friend Denise our location and what we are doing. She might be thinking we are wasting our time inside a hotel, so she suggested that we go to Snoopy's World. Then after some clicks, we were off to go.

     It is located at Shatin New Town Plaza, 3rd floor. This place is free. A very nice place to go for Charlie Brown's Gang lovers. I enjoyed, Abbey enjoyed and we know your kids we be delighted to spend time here. 

Hong Kong's Avenue of Stars

ABBEY: This must-visit place in Hongkong is a 20-minute walk from Tsim Sha Tsui MTR station. It is also along the harbor where you can see Hongkong's skyline and the venue of Chinese New Year's fireworks. 

Golden stars were scattered and each has a name of an artist or celebrity. I think I only recognized Jackie Chan from the stars. Bronze statues of people filming, lights, and clapper were erected.

WILL: Asia's World City pay attention to their film stars. Thus, this Avenue of Stars is a must-see for every foreigner visiting  Hong Kong. 
     This is located at Tsim Sha Tsui promenade. Here you can see all the glittering stars' hand marks carefully graved. 
     This is free. Tourist will have no reason why they will not check this out. ;) 

Cocoa B DIY White Chocolate

ABBEY: One random day Wilma asked what chocolate would I want as a gift. I replied "Any type, any toppings would do". 

She joined a contest to create your own chocolate. She told me she even put a message on the bar. She was excited to see it delivered to our mailbox. It was covered with a bubble wrap then a silver-colored wrapper with cushion. What a way to protect the precious delight. It was a white chocolate bar topped with almond, macadamia nuts and floss. There's a message "I love you" which is also edible. 

Its not too sweet, just enough to enjoy it and appreciate as this was done by my wife :)

WILL: The most beautiful thing that you can give as a gift to your loved ones is not a box load of ready made commodity in a market, but was things that done by your own hands. 
      Time really pushes all our creativeness on edges, and so am I. Haha. Went to Vivo... while walking, while checking each store, there is no great idea that popped-up right before my eyes. I went home, frustrated. Nada! No gift for my Abbey for hearts' day. 
     Checking every facebook fanpage that posts their products for Valentines, I came with Cocoa B that was holding a giveaway that time.  With great passion and love for my husband, I poured my emotion while creating my own chocolate. 

Here is my entry:

I roamed around VivoCity last night and got home almost 9pm with empty hands. Nowhere to find, nowhere to go, no great gift idea for my husband on heart's day.

Until this morning I read a message in facebook about Cocoa B, bulb of imagination lit and swore when I got home, I wil be creating my OWN chocolate flavor and design.

So here it is, white chocolate (symbolizes my pure love unto him), nuts (how nutty I am when I am with my hubby), I Love You Plaque (three words combined to be a powerful sentence), & Chicken Floss (his favorite).

I will never know this when I read iisjong.blogspot.com.

Hoping to win this, by the power summoned by LOVE! ;)

     Upon checking the facebook when we came back here in Singapore, I saw that I won the contest. As I cannot hide my gladness, I asked my husband to see my entry to this contest. After he read it, he squeezed me tight. 
     The day came, chocolate was delivered by the postman, we unwrap, we took photo, we ate and our amazement can see through in our eyes when we took every bite on that whitey chocolate. Very delicious indeed when powdered with floss. 
     Thanks Cocoa B. please visit their website and surprise your loved ones with it.