Diving in Shipadan, Malaysia

Shipadan

For enthusiastic divers, this oceanic island definitely offers world class diving experience. But for a non-diver like myself, I thought spending 4 days at a basic Lodge with no electricity during the day in nearby island, Mabul, would be a disaster. But instead, the experience took me by surprise. Things you could do in this tiny little island:

• Explore the island
• Shopping at the local supplies store
• Swim with sea turtles at night
• Join a rock concert at Uncle Chang's Lodge
• Watch the amazing sunset
• Diving trips at Shipadan or other islands near by
• Get fed 4-5 times a day by a Chinese chef... yum. Did I mention meals included with your stay?

Mabul island
 




Uncle Chang's Lodge

Images copyright by Designed for Travel

Toile Mother's Day gift guide

Matine Toile Cosmetic Bags

I've always been a fan of Toile pattern. Toile patterns are becoming increasingly popular of late. These cosmetic bags would rather cute Mother's Day presents. $36 for a set of 2 at Potterybarn.


Tamara Henrique wellies 

These Toile Boots are so beautiful you might not want to wear them out. These are very well made boots with printed pattern of antique style toile pattern found in a wallpaper museum in France.  They measured 15" high with full cotton lining, a 1" heel, a rubber lug sole and an adjustable buckle at the top of boot.
I found these in Australia for $200AUD.


Burton Restricted Crucible Jacket

This is a bit of a stretch but I have to share this Toile Restricted Jacket by Burton. It's a men's jacket but I would love to have one.

 

 

Love this jacket

Helly Hansen's rain jacket

Features

• Helly Tech® 2Ply
• Regular fit
• Waist adjustment inside
• Front storm flap
• Adjustable cuffs
• Elastic bottom hem cord
• Pit-zip ventilation
• Full time hood

502 Petunia502 Petunia502 Pentp

Bhutan's boutique hotel, Uma Paro

Discover this unique boutique hotel Uma Paro in Paro's valley of Bhutan. Experience the ultimate relaxation with luxurious rooms, Yoga/Pilates retreats and delicous food with menus presided over by New Zealander Jillene Slui, previously with Parrot Cay in the Turks and Caicos.

Images from Habitusliving and Uma Paro's website.