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About Me

About Me
CrystalPhuong.net is a Personal Style & Travel Blog based in Singapore, written by Crystal Phuong. The blog was nominated FOUR times in Top 10 Best Fashion Blogs in the annual Singapore Blog Award from 2012- 2015, voted as one of the Best Lifestyle Blogs in Singapore in 2013 by Hotelclub.com, and Best Travel Blogs in 2016 by Foodpanda.com. Crystal hopes to connect and inspire young women to lead a healthy and happy life. Be confident, be positive, and be kind.
Showing posts with label AUSTRALIA. Show all posts
Showing posts with label AUSTRALIA. Show all posts
MARGARET RIVER

MARGARET RIVER


CrystalPhuong- Singapore Travel Blog- Cape Leeuwin Lighthouse

When I told my friends that I would be going to Perth, the first thing everyone recommended was to visit Margaret River. And I did. After spending our first night in Perth, we hired a car and got ready for our road trip the next day. To be honest with you, I have never gone on a road trip before in my entire life, so I was a little bit nervous and excited at the same time.  

Roger Easton saved our life when he invented GPS (Global Positioning System). We had no idea of the places we were going and how to get there except for a name "Margaret River" in our head. After sitting for a few hours in the car, driving through many rainstorms and sunshine, we arrived at the Pullman Bunker Resort Hotel in Naturaliste, which I already mentioned in the previous blog post. The next morning, we started our journey again as Margaret River was still an hour away. 

It was hard to get out of this comfortable bed in a cold and rainy morning,

CrystalPhuong- Singapore Travel Blog- Comfortable hotel bed

but this ocean view made it all worth it.   

CrystalPhuong- Singapore Travel Blog- Ocean view at Pullman Bunker Bay Resort

CrystalPhuong- Singapore Travel Blog- Ocean view in the morning

If only it didn't rain all of sudden, I would have spent a little bit more time hand-holding my honey bear while walking by the beach. We quickly checked out and started our journey South where Margaret River was waiting for us. It didn't take us much time driving from Naturaliste to Margaret River. Half an hour later, we arrived at our destination. First thing first, breakfast for the champions. 

This was by far the most delicious Smoke salmon eggs benedict I've ever tried. It was so good that I had to order it again the next day.

CrystalPhuong- Singapore Travel Blog- Smoke Salmon eggs benedict

This was a true hidden gem breakfast cafe in Margaret River. You'll easily spot them with the "Breakfast on the second floor" signage upon reaching. They not only offer delicious breakfast but also the best view from the balcony that made us feel alive again. I'm sorry that I can't remember the restaurant name, but once you arrive at Margaret River, the first shop house on the left is where you'll see it.

Or maybe, this little view of the interior helps for identification. 

CrystalPhuong- Singapore Travel Blog- Breakfast in Margaret River

CrystalPhuong- Singapore Travel Blog- Breakfast and strawberry smoothie in Margaret River

Lots of choices for food lovers. 

CrystalPhuong- Singapore Travel Blog- Restaurant in Margaret River

As long as our tummies were happy, we moved on. The further we drove, the more beautiful things we saw. Besides, endless rainbows accompanying made the entire journey so enjoyable. 

CrystalPhuong- Singapore Travel Blog- View from my rear view mirror

At last, we had a glimpse of our destination from afar. We stopped our car, quickly jumped outside to catch the fresh (and cold) air, and absorbed the ocean life as much as we could.

CrystalPhuong- Singapore Travel Blog- Road trip to Cape Leeuwin Lighthouse

Cape Leeuwin Lighthouse looked stunning from where I was standing 

CrystalPhuong- Singapore Travel Blog- Cape Leeuwin Lighthouse from afar

and magnificent up close. 

CrystalPhuong- Singapore Travel Blog- Cape Leeuwin Lighthouse up close


"Historic Cape Leeuwin Lighthouse is situated at the most south westerly tip of Australia, standing at the point where the Indian and Southern Oceans meet- 8 kilometres west of Australia"- according to their website. After climbing up 39 meters from the ground level, on a narrow spiral staircase, we were completely mind-blown by this stunning blue backdrop of the ocean meeting sky, white waves crashing to shores and another beautiful rainbow in the middle of the ocean.

CrystalPhuong- Singapore Travel Blog- On top of Cape Leeuwin Lighthouse

CrystalPhuong- Singapore Travel Blog- An ocean view from Cape Leeuwin Lighthouse

Those stairs are not friendly with your legs.

CrystalPhuong- Singapore Travel Blog- Spiral staircase inside Cape Leeuwin Lighthouse

Where the Southern and Indian Oceans meet. 

CrystalPhuong- Singapore Travel Blog- Cape Leeuwin Lighthouse ocean view

Leaving the 39 meters above the ground Lighthouse, we went to the next adventure at 42 meters underground. It's the Jewel Cave- the biggest show cave in Southern Australia with massive chambers, that's what I'm talking about. Suddenly, I felt so important when everyone kept talking about Crystal. And that awkward moment when I realized, they were actually talking about these sparkling crystalline formations, including the Waterfall, the Organ Pipe and the world's largest straw stalactite in a tourist cave. Not me. *so sad*

CrystalPhuong- Singapore Travel Blog- inside the Jewel Cave

CrystalPhuong- Singapore Travel Blog- The Jewel Cave Crystalline formations

CrystalPhuong- Singapore Travel Blog- Beautiful crystalline formations in the Jewel Cave

We spent 45 minutes walking to every corner of the cave and feeling a little bit jealous with how generous Mother Nature was to Australia. I was hesitant at first to come all the way from Perth (it was a long drive), but after all, I would think otherwise. I would feel so regretful if I didn't make an effort to be here. Thank you Margaret River Region for your wonderful treats. It's time for us to head back "home" in Perth. Bring on another 300km drive journey.

We came back to the Hyatt Regency hotel in Perth just in time for this delicous dinner before every restaurant was closed. It was only 8pm on Sunday night.

CrystalPhuong- Singapore Travel Blog- Dinner in Perth City

CrystalPhuong- Singapore Travel Blog- Delicious dinner in Perth city

My last day in Perth, it was raining early in the morning (as expected). Or perhaps, the city was upset that I had to leave? *just kidding*. But it always feels so emotional on the last day of the vacation, don't you agree?.

CrystalPhuong- Singapore Travel Blog- Raining day in Perth city

CrystalPhuong- Singapore Travel Blog- Peaceful day in Swan River

A morning in the park was a morning well-spent. I forgot the last time I visited a park in the morning to feel the crisp air on my face, listen to a bird chirping and watch people passing by. It's the most peaceful and serene moment yet we often take it for granted. People often think happiness comes from luxury, wealth, and status. But the truth is, happiness is intangible, is simple, and is free.

CrystalPhuong- Singapore Travel Blog- Morning in King's Park

To me, happiness was when I bumped into a garden full of fresh roses.  

CrystalPhuong- Singapore Travel Blog- Fresh rose in King's Park

CrystalPhuong- Singapore Travel Blog- Beautiful rose with crystal nails

It was when we had this whole beautiful park for ourselves. 

CrystalPhuong- Singapore Travel Blog- Beautiful King's Park in the morning

It was when I went for a walk with my boo along these beautiful streets in Perth. 

CrystalPhuong- Singapore Travel Blog- Adelaide Avenue in Perth

Or, when we listened to the song "Over the rainbow" played by 26 bell Carillon at Bell Tower while looking at the Swan River, King's Park and Perth City. That was happiness to me!

CrystalPhuong- Singapore Travel Blog- A view from Bell Tower

These views will never get old.  

CrystalPhuong- Singapore Travel Blog- Perth city view on top of Bell Tower

CrystalPhuong- Singapore Travel Blog- Swan River and King's Park view from Bell Tower

CrystalPhuong- Singapore Travel Blog- Bell Tower, Perth

Every time traveling to a new place, I feel like I've grown up a little bit more. I've learned new things about the country that I've been to, the people that I've met, the lifestyle that I've seen. I've learned how to deal with different situations and be grateful every single day.

I wish I could have more time to explore other things that many people recommended in Western Australia like wine tasting or dolphin watching. But every "Hello" ends with a "Goodbye". I don't know when I'll see you again, Australia! But I'm certain that this is not the last. This is just a goodbye, for now.

Thank you so much for reading.
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TRENDY IN PERTH

TRENDY IN PERTH


Crystal Phuong- Streetstyle in Perth City

On the last day in Perth, we were quite lucky as the sun came out, and the sky was clear for our #streetstyle photoshoot. It was really nice walking down the streets of Perth city in the morning. The air was fresh, the wind was strong, and the temperature was so cold that it really woke me up. It was the perfect season for trench coats, sweaters, and knee high boots in all styles. 

I bought this Mackage trench coat last year and finally had a chance to wear it. It is the first designer coat that I've owned, and it's one of my best investment pieces I must say. A well-structured and fitted trench coat is so classic, timeless, and versatile. It can instantly make us look stylish even when paired with the most basic items like T-shirts and Jeans. I bought a couple of outerwear pieces with me on this trip, but I kept wearing the same trench coat over and over again. If you follow me on Instagram, you've probably seen that. 

We walked a few blocks away from our hotel, followed along the Swan River, and passed by some pretty good-looking streets that made my heart sing. I love capturing the beauty of each city I've been through its streets. That's why I was so crazy about this street style shoot even though I already had some photos taken at King's Park earlier by my dear photographer. I had to trouble him to do another photoshoot for me at my ideal location. Thank you so much, my dear, for being so patient to take my photos even though you hate doing it. You have no idea how much it means to me.

I wasn't sure which one I liked better, the classic Mackage beige trench coat with knee-high boots or the beautiful and empty Adelaide Avenue in winter at the background. But I'm quite sure, this is by far my most favorite fashion- travel photo shoot till date. 

Crystal Phuong- Walking in Perth city in style

Crystal Phuong- Walking in trench coat and knee high boots in Perth City

Crystal Phuong- Singapore Fashion Blogger- Perth travel diary

Crystal Phuong- Beautiful day in Perth, Australia

Crystal Phuong- Singapore Travel Blog- A day in Perth

Crystal Phuong- Singapore Fashion Blog- Streetstyle in Perth

Crystal Phuong- Valentino red locker bag

Crystal Phuong- Mackage trench coat.

Crystal Phuong- All smiles in Perth city.

Crystal Phuong- Travel blog- Beautiful day in Perth

Crystal Phuong- Singapore Fashion Blog- Perth city

Crystal Phuong- First time in Perth city

Thank you so much for reading!

Photos: K Kline

::Outfit::

H&M Black and gold sweater- Similar here
Zara polka dot jeans- Similar here
Aldo black suede boots- Similar here



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PERTH PERFECTION

PERTH PERFECTION


CrystalPhuong- Singapore Travel Blog- Perth city

Going to #Australia has always been in my to-do list for a long time. It doesn't matter which part of Australia, as long as I place my footsteps in the land Down Under, I'm happy. Having an extremely long holiday last weekend, we decided to pick to the nearest destination from Singapore to Australia and it had to be Perth. It didn't take us much time to get the flights and hotel sorted, thanks to my amazing planner! *I am so lucky*

After 4hour plane ride plus 2hour delay at the airport, we finally arrived in Perth city, just in time to pick up our car, head back to the hotel and get ready for dinner. It was almost 9 pm. The city was about to sleep as expected. Not many cars on the street and not many shops open. It was so quiet that I could hear the sounds of strong wind blowing through my ears. I was shivering in the cold weather, but the excitement kept me walking. 

CrystalPhuong- Singapore Travel Blog- Perth city at night

We took a long walk to the Swan River where a couple of bars and restaurants opened till late. Quickly ordered our dinner 5minutes before the kitchen closed, I chose BBQ pork ribs made by the Australian chef. It was the best pork ribs I've ever tried and that simply made my night. 

CrystalPhuong- Singapore Travel Blog- Delicious BBQ pork rib in Perth city.

I was told that this trip was nothing like the previous ones I've been. No sunbathing by the beach, sipping a glass of margaritas by the pool or shopping, it would be a real road trip from one town to another within Western Australia. 

CrystalPhuong- Singapore Travel Blog- Road trip in Perth

I was all ready for it. But first thing first, I needed a cup hot chocolate and delicious breakfast to start my day. We didn't know which place we wanted to visit other than driving along the coastline and stopping whenever we wanted to. I looked at the map and picked a destination called City Beach, hoping that there would be some breakfast spots, cafes, or restaurants around. After a couple of detours, we were lucky enough to end up at Clancy's Fish Bar, a beautiful restaurant located at the most perfect location ever- right by the ocean. 

CrystalPhuong- Singapore Travel Blog- Clancy Fish Bar

CrystalPhuong- Singapore Travel Blog- Hot chocolate in the morning at Clancy's Fish bar

Hot chocolate on a cold and rainy day is always a good idea. 

CrystalPhuong- Singapore Travel Blog- Sipping a hot chocolate in the morning

CrystalPhuong- Singapore Travel Blog- Breakfast at Clancy's Fish Bar

The breakfast was delicious, but this view right here made it taste ten times better. 

CrystalPhuong- Singapore Travel Blog- Beautiful ocean view from Clancy's Fish bar

I can't express exactly how I felt that time while looking at such a calm and picturesque scenery. A simple beauty of nature could always make my heart skip a beat. I wish I could capture the whale from the ocean into this photo. He swam back and forth a couple of times pretty near the shore. 

CrystalPhuong- Singapore Travel Blog- Ocean panoramic view

CrystalPhuong- Singapore Travel Blog- Clancy's Fish bar interior

 The rain stopped and it was time for us to move on. We kept driving along the coastline, heading toward the South, listening to the local radio, and feeling entertained by what we saw along the way. Sometimes, it's the row of identical houses in colonial architect that fascinated me. 

CrystalPhuong- Singapore Travel Blog- Driving to Freemantle, Western Australia

CrystalPhuong- Singapore Travel Blog- Beautiful day in Western Australia

Other time, it's the vibrant red flowering gum tree that got me so excited about a photo opportunity. It added some colors to a gloomy day. 

CrystalPhuong- Singapore Travel Blog- Red Flowering Gum tree in Western Australia

By the time we arrived at Fremantle prison, we realized that we had already traveled for 30minutes. It didn't feel that long. Fremantle prison is not what you think it is. Although the look can be quite deceiving, this is actually a famous tourist spot that is quite Instagram- worthy. We wanted to explore a few prison tours but didn't have time to do so as we still had 300km journey ahead. 

CrystalPhuong- Singapore Travel Blog- Fremantle prison in Western Australia

The only destination in my mind was Pullman Bunker Bay Resorts. I didn't expect it could take us so long driving through stormy rain, endless green farms, and mysterious forests to get there. But I guess this spacious room with an incredible view made up for the long journey.

CrystalPhuong- Singapore Travel Blog- Pullman Bunker Bay hotel, Western Australia

CrystalPhuong- Singapore Travel Blog- Pullman Bunker Bay resort bathroom, Perth

CrystalPhuong- Singapore Travel Blog- Pullman Bunker Bay resort, view from the hotel room

CrystalPhuong- Singapore Travel Blog- Soaking up some sun from hotel room in Pullman Bunker Bay Resort, Perth

My first two days in Western Australia were very spontaneous and unexpected like that. But the excitement was always up in the air. 

Can't wait to share with you what we did on day 3 and 4. 
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