Saturday, March 24, 2018

[TRAVEL] Resorts World Genting | Ripleys Believe It Or Not Adventureland, | Jurassic Research Centre | Zombie Outbreak | Alive Museum


Hey guys! Over the weekend I decided to visit Resort World Genting newest attraction, and believe me when I say that I had tons of fun! Despite going to Genting pretty often for the past few months, I'm pretty surprised to find that there is always something new each time I visit. This time I spent more time exploring the Level 4,  Skyavenue Lifestyle Mall at Resorts World Genting, where all the adventure begins. In today's post, I'll be sharing with you the newest attractions in Genting Highlands, featuring Ripleys Believe It Or Not Adventureland, Jurassic Research Centre, Zombie Outbreak and the Alive Museum. Scroll away to find out more.


So to make it easy for you guys, I'm gonna try my best to simplify my post so that you don't get too with these words that I'll be writing. Give a girl some credit for trying, or maybe an A for effort at least? Hehe. So, since there just so many things to share, I'll properly decide each attraction in paragraphs so that its easy for you to read through my post. The Big Box has so much to offer, but since I only went for a day trip, I'll only be talking about the things that I managed to cover on that day. Are you ready for the sneak peek of my most recent adventure?

Ripley Believe It Or Not Adventureland




First up would be the Ripleys Believe It Or Not Adventureland. The last time I went for a Ripleys Believe It Or Not gallery when I was visiting Australia, and now, I can't believe Malaysia has our very own Ripleys Believe It Or Not located in Genting Highlands! We all know that Ripleys Believe It Or Not used to be a very popular TV show showing extraordinary facts that are too good to be true, and at this Auditorium, you will find over 400 exhibits featuring cabinets of curiosities including artifacts of lost worlds that deserves a time of wonderment and interaction to all visitors.



There are so many bizarre and wacky collections which include a model of a Vampire Woman, Mike the Headless Chicken, and even a model of David Beckham's legs made out of worn-out bills. (can't image how many bills were shredded to make one of these sexy legs). In the pictures above are just merely 20% of the things that caught my eye, and if you would like to see more of these mind-blowing exhibits, you can always pay a visit to see them all with your own eyes.

Jurassic Research Centre




Next stop would be the Jurassic Research Centre. Secretly I always wanted to see dinosaurs as I usually wonder what the world would be like if they did not go extinct? Well, at the Jurassic Research Centre, you will be wow'ed by real life-size dinosaurs that would move and make sounds. So before you enter, be sure to think about where you stand as their tails might just whip you off the ground (this specifically is a warning for kids) hehe. This center would fulfill your childhood dreams of seeing massive figures of different species of dinosaurs that you will able to see it for yourself, and while you're there, might as well takes photos to impress your friends and family right?





So wondering about the Jurassic Research Centre, it really felt like I was traveling back through time to watch these dinosaurs come back to life. The excitement of it all was when I got to see a Tyrannosaurus Rex standing right before me. Partially thankful that its all mechanical, but if it was real, I don't know what would stop the T-Rex from eating me. Visitors to the Jurassic Research Centre would be given the chance to get up close and personal with dinosaurs like never before. There is even a fossil laboratory to study the different specimen models of dinosaurs with details inscriptions making you feel as if you're in an actual fossil laboratory! And once you're almost at the exit, you can end your visit in a 4D experience of witnessing velociraptors wrecking havoc in a lab.

Zombie Outbreak



To those who think that dinosaurs are not scary enough, then this is for you. The Zombie Outbreak is  basically your worst nightmare. We all know those zombie movies where everyone runs to seek survival right? Well here at the Zombie Outbreak, you will have to survive through a 20-minute maze where the zombies would walk free. The stench of your flesh in the air would 100% catch their attention, so beware! Not for those with weak hearts, and to those who want to scream your hearts out, enter only if you dare.




This has to be one of the MOST thrilling and terrifying attractions of it all! Im glad that I made it alive, and trust me, the maze it's not your typical predictable maze. The maze is dark, cold, and zombies are literally at every corner. Somehow the storyline of the maze is that you'll find yourself in an abandoned house, seeking for shelter, but in every room, you'll have to watch out for the zombies. Once you enter, there's no turning back. Only 8 people are allowed per session, so be sure that there's at least a leader that is brave enough to guide your way.

Alive Museum




After my mini heart attack at the Zombie Outbreak, its time to slow down the pace of my heartbeat by visiting the Alive Museum. The Alice Museum is where visitors can enter a world of fun optical illusion art. Featuring artworks specially commissioned by the artist from South Korea, you would be amazed at the skills they have to create wonderful 3D images. If you're familiar with the K-pop trend, then you're in luck as you'll get to see the painting of famous celebrity figures such as Lee Kwang Soo, Gong Yoo, and Song Joong Ki!





Above would be some exciting photos that we managed to take while we were there and I believe that the spread is pretty fair. Great for people who love to take photos, and by taking images at the Alive Museum, you could totally surprise your friends and family by looking like as if you're a part of the 3D painting. From being in the cold north pole to outer space, this would be a great place to explore trick art at the Alive Museum. I would have to say that this is a must-visit if you want to add something a little unique to your social media feed.



There are other attractions too at the Level 4 of the Skyavenue lifestyle mall at Resorts World Genting, such as a Video Games Park, Arcade games, The Jungle Gym and the Healing Touch. As a conclusion, this particular attraction has something for everyone, no matter how old or how young you are. Even if you're hungry, there are food and beverages outlets available within the same area such as Wendy’s, The Baker’s Cottage, Texas Chicken, Pizza Hut, Kenny Roger’s Roasters, Marrybrown, Jr Curry House and Only Mee and Boat Noodle. Also opening very soon is Subway and J&G Chicken from Taiwan. You can also explore the Marketplace area if you have the time!


Operation times are from 10.00am to 10.00pm and prices for the attractions may be purchased separately or in a combo of two or three attractions. Prices vary for standard tickets for adults and children and for Genting Rewards members, so if you have not gotten yourself the Genting Rewards card, it's about time you do if you're looking for more savings! Hehe. Thank you so much for reading my blog, and if you're looking for any other information, you can visit www.rwgenting.com for more details.

Friday, March 23, 2018

All About European Cheese | An European Cheese Raclette

Your guide to European Cheese
Just yesterday, I had the privilege to experience a cheese tasting session, and im not talking about your ordinary cheese. It was an honor to be present at the European Cheese Raclette to experience a gastronomic satisfying world of molten cheese. I'll be honest that the only cheese that im familiar with is usually either cheddar or mozzarella, but this entire experience has given me a chance to experience cheese differently. I always liked my cheese melted, but I've learned that not all cheese melt better than others, allowing different flavors, taste, and texture that oozes out uniquely in its own way.  And so, in this post, im sharing with you the things I've learned about European Cheese.

The cheese expert for the day
Present during the private session, we had Chef Pierre Gay, a cheese master, cheese connoisseur and an expert from France who was nice to share his extensive knowledge on European cheese through this Raclette party jointly organized by the French Interbranch Dairy Organization and European Union to promote the pre-eminence and finesse of European Cheese, or shall i say 'Magnifique fromage' (magnificent cheese).

Fun Fact: Raclette a concept that melts cheese in a Raclette machine, and can be easily recreated at home to be enjoyed with friends and family. 

The Experience

It's time to get cheesy!
Before our tasting session started, we had Chef Pierre Gay emphasizing to us to enjoy the sensation of watching the cheese melt and being scraped over the food as a part of the sensory experience of a Raclette. Raclette is a fairly new concept in Malaysia and this is an experience not to be missed! The secret to choosing the right cheese for a Raclette is the moisture content according to this equation 'more moisture the cheese has = the better it melts'. And to exactly find out how it melts, I managed to get a little hands on, on particularly 9 different variety of cheese!

Camembert

Camembert Cheese
Camembert has a creamy milky texture that would be very addictive if you're already a fan of cheese
The Camembert comes in a box, which you can choose to bake directly or to slice it up and melt the cheese to enjoy its moist, soft, creamy, milky texture. The one that I tried particularly had a bittersweet taste which tastes amazing when eaten with just bread. Its creamy, and a great starter to even enjoy with pickles too!

Reblochon 

The Reblochon Cheese
Melt it with your choice of condiments. 
The Reblochon is made by mixing milk from three different breeds of cows, namely abondance, taurine, and montbeliarde. This had a very interesting taste when it enjoyed when it's melted. I was actually surprised that this did not taste salty at all, and it does give your mouth that gastronomic feeling of enjoying a slice of Reblochon.

Scarmoza

Scarmoza, one of the sexies cheese i've seen
And when it's melted, you'll get a taste of heaven
The Scamoza comes from an Italian cow milk cheese. This particularly has one of the most familiar tastes of milky cheese that has a chewy texture that would dance in your mouth as you enjoy the taste of cheese. I tasted it when it's melted, and I have to admit that cheese never tasted so good! This would have to be a favorite of mine if I ever go to the grocery store to look for cheese.

Brie De Meaux

Brie De Meaux, unique and sour
Now, Brie De Meaux is a little more interesting. After tasting the first 3 variety of cheese, I found the Brie De Meaux a little strong to my liking. It's not bad, just that its one of the strongest, sourish cheese I've ever tasted ever. It tasted pretty good if you enjoy it with sweeter condiments like fruits or chicken, but on its own, I found it really strong. Not a fan, but if you've never tried it before, then you have nothing to lose.

Raclette

Raclette Cheese
Best enjoyed when melted
The Raclette would be another favorite of mine as its pretty similar to the Scarmoza. It has a chewy texture that I love, and best eaten with practically anything! I melted mine and enjoyed it with some smoked beef, and gosh, I am loving every bit of it! For those who are not so adventurous in tasting cheese, I would recommend you to consider Raclette as its very easy to taste and to love. The Raclette cheese is usually enjoyed as fondue dips and due to its pH level, it has the perfect melting point resulting in a molten liquid that can hold its shape at the same time.

Saint Nectaire

The Saint Nectaire
Enjoy it melted or as it is
The Siant Nectaire can be enjoyed either melted or as it is in its raw format, depending on your preference.When melted, it has a light salty taste compared to when eaten raw. I prefer it melted as it will have this stringy texture that has a balance of a salty and bitterish taste.

Comte Cheddar

Comte Cheddar anyone?
Just look at how juicy it is when it's melted
The Comete Cheddar is the cheese that takes about 2 years to make, and its usually only made during summer. This is a saltier version of cheese, and I believe very similar to cheddar cheese, and surprisingly, when you enjoy this melted, it would taste slightly sweeter and juicy in comparison to when enjoying it raw. It is a kind of Cheddar cheese, but this is particularly made in France.

Fourme D'Ambert

Fourme D'Ambert
Also known as Blue Cheese, the Fourme D'ambert would be your worst nightmare when you get a sniff, but honestly it has a very pleasant taste. To describe the taste, I would have to say that it had a unique salty milky taste that goes really well when eaten with pickled condiments, meat, and even fruits. It may look scary, but trust me when I say don't judge a book by its cover.

Gouda

Goude, your favorite cheese to snack on
And to end our tasting session, we ended with the Gouda cheese which came from the Netherlands. It takes 2 whole years to make this cheese, and its best eaten raw. It has a solid form like Cheddar cheese, but when it comes to taste, it tasted less salty. A personal opinion would be that its a nice cheese to snack on as the taste isn't too strong and great for those who love to snack on cheese cubes. Hehe.

Conclusion

A mandatory photo of the French Men Cheese Experts
All in all, I would have to say that im blessed with the privilege of tasting and learning all about European Cheese. Trust me, if you have tasted real cheese in a Raclette manner, you will automatically have a different impression towards cheese when you see a plate of cheese being served at a buffet. I never knew that cheese can be so intricate, especially when you are tasting different varieties of cheeses, in different preparations with different condiments. European cheeses are always of the highest quality and the best cheese products are readily available to the consumers in Malaysia. So now that you know at least 9 different types of cheese, you can organize your own Raclette Party and get ready to melt into an epicurean journey with the worlds best cheese at home.

Thursday, March 22, 2018

Special screening of Operation Red Sea X Bona Cinemas X Resort World Genting

The first Bona cinema outside of China, in Resort World Genting
24th February marks a historical day for Bona Film Group as their Chairman and General Manager of the board, Mr Yu Dong came personally from China for the special screening of Operation Red Sea and the opening of their first cinema outside of China at SkyAvenue, Resorts World Genting.

The event was graced by YB Senator Datuk Seri Panglima Dr Mohd Salleh bin Tun Said Keruak, Minister of Communications and Multimedia, Tan Sri Lim Kok Thay, Chairman & Chief Executive of Genting Malaysia, Datuk Lim Chee Wah, President of VXL Group, Mr Hui Lim, Executive Director and Chief Information Officer of Genting Malaysia and Dato’ Fauzi Ayob, Director General of FINAS.

The special screening of Operation Red Sea
Claiming the spotlight on the red carpet was Mr. Dante Lam, the director of Operation Red Sea, who thrilled the gathered fans. Also present were Ms Candy Leung, the producer of Operation Red Sea, Raymond Yip, film director and Zhai Tian Lin, actor from China and Datin Sophia Hu Jing. Local actors and celebrities who were also present include the award winning local star, Crystal Lee who acted in Bona Films titled Unbeatable. She received the Best Actress Award at the Shanghai International Film Festival in 2013. Together with her were Steve Yap, Fiona Yeo, Andrea Lee, Jacqueline Tiang, Billy Ng, Agnes Lim, Michael Chin and Bei Fu Quan.

The grand event kicked started with a spectacular lion dance performance followed by a multi-cultural traditional dance by Istana Budaya’s Muhibbah dancers. In his speech, Mr Yu Dong said, ‘We are very honoured to have the opportunity to work with the Chairman & Chief Executive of Genting Malaysia, Tan Sri Lim Kok Thay. Having now opened a Bona Cinemas outside of China at SkyAvenue, it is a beginning of many new plans we have in Malaysia.’

‘Resorts World Genting is a well-known tourist’s destination in China. It is a world class integrated resort with so many speculator entertainment options for people from all walks of life. Talking about just Chinese tourists to Malaysia, approximately half of these visitors have visited Resorts World Genting last year. We are indeed proud to be part of Resorts World Genting and we certainly hope with this opening and collaboration with the Genting Group, we are able to introduce more movies, film stars and entertainment to the Malaysian audience,’ added Yu Dong.

Mr Yu Dong making his apperance in Resort World Genting
Yu Dong further explained that the group has considered Resorts World Genting as an ideal location to open its first cinema, given the strength of the Malaysian Chinese entertainment market and synergies with the upcoming Twentieth Century Fox World theme park. Bona Cinemas is planned to be the first project in a long-term relationship between the Bona Film Group and Resorts World Genting. Special showcases and potential film festivals are being planned in Malaysia, while the relationship could extend to Bona Film Group entertainment events in Beijing and Guangzhou.

A ribbon-cutting ceremony was also held to mark the opening of Bona Cinemas by YB Senator Datuk Seri Panglima Dr Mohd Salleh bin Tun Said Keruak, Mr Yu Dong, Tan Sri Lim Kok Thay, Datuk Lim Chee Wah, Mr Hui Lim, Dato’ Fauzi Ayob, Dato Seri Lee Choong Yan, President & COO of Genting Malaysia, Dante Lim, Mr Allan Wang Yi, Bona Cinemas Chairman, Raymond Yip and Candy Leung.

Bona Cinemas at SkyAvenue currently has four cinema halls in operation. An additional two halls – a 48-seat VIP theatre and a 250-seat IMAX theatre – will be opening in the second half of 2018. Equipped with state-of-the-art projection technology, Dolby Atmos surround sound systems and comfortable chairs, Bona Cinemas in Resorts World Genting will showcase a full range of cinematic experiences, from Hollywood blockbusters to Chinese historical epics, from international comedy to local Malaysian productions.

Look who was present during the launch? Its us guys!
The event continued with guests invited to watch the special screening of Operation Red Sea. Operation Red Sea is a Chinese-Hong Kong action film directed by Dante Lim, who also directed the Operation Mekong and many other top box office movies. In an earlier press conference, Dante said over CNY500 million (approximately MYR310 million) has been invested to produce the movie which was filmed in Morocco, showcasing military battle by the Chinese Military team that covers land, sea and air.

The movie starring Zhang Yi, Du Jiang, Huang Jingyu, Hai Qing and Prince Mak, is based on a true story about a China-led evacuation mission during the 2015 Yemeni Civil War. The movie is co-produced and co-funded by Bona Film Group.

The movie made its debut on the 22 February in Malaysia and has received tremendous good reviews. In China, the movie is currently ranked No 2 with CNY1.7 billion (approximately MYR1.05 billion) at the box office. For more information on Bona Cinemas, please visit www.rwgenting.com or call 03-6101 1118.