Nami Island the most visited place in Korea (Winter Sonata)

Nami Island, also known as Naminara Republic, is a charming and picturesque island located in Chuncheon, South Korea. Shaped like a half-moon, this tiny oasis is situated in the middle of the Han River, just a short distance from Seoul.

One of the most notable aspects of Nami Island is its stunning natural beauty. The island is adorned with tree-lined paths, gardens, and meadows, creating a serene and peaceful atmosphere. Visitors can take leisurely strolls along the walking trails, enjoying the changing colors of the seasons.

Nami Island gained international fame as a filming location for the popular Korean drama "Winter Sonata." Fans of the show often flock to the island to retrace the steps of the main characters and immerse themselves in the romantic ambiance. There's even a statue of the drama's protagonists, adding a touch of nostalgia for fans.

Beyond its role in popular culture, Nami Island offers a variety of activities and attractions. The island is home to diverse flora and fauna, making it a haven for nature lovers and birdwatchers. The iconic Metasequoia Lane, lined with towering trees, is a particularly enchanting spot that provides a stunning backdrop for photographs.

For those seeking more adventure, Nami Island offers water sports, bike rentals, and even zip-lining experiences. In winter, the island transforms into a winter wonderland with snow covered landscapes, attracting visitors eager to experience the magic of the season.

Art enthusiasts will appreciate the presence of art installations and sculptures scattered throughout the island. Nami Island hosts various cultural events and festivals, showcasing the vibrant arts scene of South Korea.

Access to Nami Island is primarily by a short ferry ride, adding an extra layer of excitement to the visit. The ferry provides panoramic views of the surrounding landscapes and sets the tone for a delightful day on the island.

Whether you're a nature lover, a fan of Korean dramas, or simply seeking a peaceful escape from the bustling city life, Nami Island offers a unique and enchanting experience that captivates the hearts of all who visit.

Here are some video on the trip to Nami Island and walking tour for your viewing. Enjoy.

ASB declared Dividend at 5.25 cent

KUALA LUMPUR, 21 December 2023: Amanah Saham Nasional Berhad (ASNB), a company unit trust management wholly owned by Permodalan Nasional Berhad (PNB), announced today total income distribution of 5.25 cents per unit for its main fund, Amanah Saham Bumiputera (ASB) for the financial year ending 31 December 2023 (FY2023).

The amount consists of an income distribution of 4.25 cents per unit and a bonus of 1.00 cents per unit. The total amount of income distribution of RM9.3 billion will be benefiting 10.8 million ASB unit holders.

ASB continues to deliver a competitive income distribution, outperforming its benchmark viz Maybank 12 month Fixed Deposit rate. The number of ASB accounts increased to more than 200,000 to 10.8 million accounts, showing continued confidence in ASB as an instrument savings and investments are important for Bumiputeras in financial planning them.

The Malaysian market in 2023 has shown resilience and adapts well in amid global geopolitical tensions and economic uncertainty. Even in the face with challenges including rising interest rates and inflationary, economic and capital market pressures Malaysia has shown its ability to overcome this challenge.

According to the Ministry of Finance, Malaysia's economy is projected to grow 4.0% in the year 2023, with the continued support of strong domestic consumption, infrastructure spending as well as recovery in the tourism sector.

The Malaysian economy recorded stronger growth of 3.3% in the third quarter of 2023 (Q3 2023), compared to 2.9% in Q2 2023 (Q1 2023: 5.9%). However, the capital market is not protected from global macro trends, particularly rising interest rates. As of December 15th 2023, FBM KLCI has declined 2.2%.

source www.asnb.com.my

Budget Friendly Hotel Ibis Ambassador Myeongdong Seoul Korea

Exploring Comfort and Convenience at Ibis Ambassador Myeongdong Hotel in Seoul

The Ibis Ambassador Myeongdong Hotel in Seoul stands as a beacon of comfort and convenience in the heart of this vibrant city. Boasting a prime location in the bustling district of Myeongdong, this hotel offers a unique blend of modern amenities and accessibility.

Nestled in the heart of Seoul, the Ibis Ambassador Myeongdong Hotel enjoys a strategic location that places guests within easy reach of popular attractions, shopping districts, and cultural landmarks. Its proximity to Myeongdong, known for its dynamic street life and diverse shopping options, adds an extra layer of appeal for both leisure and business travelers.

The hotel provides a range of accommodations designed to cater to the diverse needs of its guests. From cozy rooms to spacious suites, each space is thoughtfully designed with modern decor and equipped with amenities to ensure a comfortable stay. Highlight any unique features or room offerings that set the hotel apart.

Explore the dining options available at the Ibis Ambassador Myeongdong Hotel. Whether guests are seeking local flavors or international cuisine, the hotel's restaurants or dining areas aim to tantalize taste buds. Consider mentioning any signature dishes, themed dining experiences, or notable culinary offerings. Good thing is that this hotel is located next to the popular myeongdong night street market.

                                                     Myeongdong Night Street Market

Detail the facilities and amenities that enhance the overall guest experience. This may include conference rooms for business travelers, fitness centers, spa services, and other recreational offerings. Mention any standout features that contribute to the hotel's reputation for quality and service.

Ibis Ambassador Myeongdong Hotel walkthrough in 4K

Summarize the key attractions and features that make the Ibis Ambassador Myeongdong Hotel a preferred choice for visitors to Seoul. Encourage prospective guests to experience the comfort, convenience, and cultural richness that this hotel strives to offer.

Is DJI Spark Still Relevant in 2023? Build like a Tank

The DJI Spark, introduced in May 2017, marked a significant milestone in the world of consumer drones. Developed by DJI, the world's leading drone manufacturer, the Spark was designed to be a more accessible and user-friendly drone, appealing to a broader audience. Its compact size, intelligent features, and affordability contributed to its popularity among both beginners and drone enthusiasts

The DJI Spark was a popular consumer drone known for its compact size, intelligent features, ease of use and build like a Tank. It use to be one of the smallest drone to be released and succeeded by DJI Mavic Mini in 2019 and follow on with DJI Mini SE in 2021.

The DJI Spark: A Compact Marvel of Drone Technology

The DJI Spark has long been celebrated for its compact design, intelligent features, and accessibility, making it a standout choice among consumer drones. We will explore the key specifications of the DJI Spark and delve into its performance attributes, keeping in mind the advancements and improvements up until its last update.

1. Compact Design and Portability:

• The DJI Spark's compact size makes it a standout in the consumer drone market. The lightweight design enhances portability, allowing users to easily carry it on outdoor adventures.

2. Camera and Imaging Capabilities:

• The Spark featured a capable camera that could capture 12-megapixel stills and record 1080p video. Intelligent shooting modes like ActiveTrack and QuickShot allowed users to capture professional-looking footage effortlessly. Below are some footage taken by DJI Spark.

3. Intelligent Flight Modes:

• DJI's signature Intelligent Flight Modes, such as Gesture Control and TapFly, made piloting the Spark intuitive and user-friendly. Precision hovering and obstacle detection added to the safety and ease of use.

4. Performance and Battery Life:

• The Spark was known for its stable flight performance and responsiveness to user commands. Battery life was a crucial factor, and the Spark offered a reasonable flight time on a single charge.

5. Controller and Connectivity:

• The Spark could be controlled via a mobile device or an optional remote controller for extended range and a more traditional piloting experience. Connectivity features such as Wi-Fi and GPS contributed to a seamless user experience.

                                                      DJI Spark Footage in 2023

The DJI Spark left a lasting impact on the consumer drone market by breaking barriers to entry. Its compact size, intelligent features, and relatively affordable price point opened up drone technology to a wider audience, including those new to aerial photography and videography.

                                                            DJI Spark Footage in 2023

                                                             DJI Spark Footage in 2023

In conclusion, the DJI Spark represented a remarkable blend of portability, intelligent features, and performance. The drone's compact design, advanced camera capabilities, and intelligent flight modes made it a favorite among drone enthusiasts. However, the Spark has been discontinued and you can find some used unit in the market. I still have my Sparky and i will share move footage in near future so stay tune.

Is Sony A6000 still a Beast in 2023?

As of 2023, the Sony A6000 continues to be a relevant and viable choice for photographers, and several reasons contribute to its continued appeal:

1. Compact and Lightweight Design:

• The A6000 is known for its compact and lightweight design, making it an ideal option for photographers who prioritize portability. Its small form factor makes it easy to carry around for everyday shooting or travel.

1. 24.3-Megapixel APS-C Sensor:

   • The camera features a 24.3-megapixel APS-C sensor, providing excellent image quality. While newer models may have higher megapixel counts, the A6000's sensor still delivers sharp and detailed images, especially in good lighting conditions.
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2. Fast Hybrid Autofocus System:

   • The A6000 introduced Sony's Fast Hybrid Autofocus system, combining phase-detection and contrast-detection autofocus. This system allows for quick and accurate focusing, making it suitable for various photography genres, including sports and action.
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3. Built-in Electronic Viewfinder:

   • Unlike some entry-level mirrorless cameras, the A6000 comes with a built-in electronic viewfinder (EVF). This feature is valuable for composing shots in bright sunlight, offering a clear and accurate preview of the scene.
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4. Affordability:

   • The A6000 is often more budget-friendly than newer models in Sony's lineup. For photographers on a budget or those entering the mirrorless camera market, the A6000 provides a cost-effective option without sacrificing essential features.
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5. Wide Range of E-Mount Lenses:

   • Sony's E-mount system has a vast selection of lenses available, providing A6000 users with the flexibility to expand their photographic capabilities. From wide-angle to telephoto, users can choose lenses that suit their specific needs.
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6. Still Relevant for Many Use Cases:

   • For casual photographers, vloggers, and enthusiasts, the A6000's features are often more than sufficient. Its combination of image quality, autofocus capabilities, and portability makes it suitable for a wide range of photography scenarios.
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7. Community and Support:

• The A6000 has a large and active user community. This means that users can benefit from online forums, tutorials, and a wealth of shared knowledge and experiences, creating a supportive ecosystem for those using the camera.

Sony A6000 with 7Artisan

Sony A6000 with 7Artisan

Sony A6000 with 7Artisan

While the Sony A6000 may not have the latest features found in newer models, its combination of compact design, good image quality, and affordability continues to make it a compelling choice for photographers who prioritize these factors in 2023. Always consider your specific needs and budget when choosing a camera.

So the question many have been asking. Is the Sony A6000 still relevant in 2023? For me it is a yes. coupled with some good lens you are good to go. Happy Shooting. Stay tune for more sample photo and video from Sony A6000.