Kazakhstan - Landing in Almaty, Currency Exchange, SIM Card, YandexGo Ehailing and Accommodation

The view outside the plane window

Landing in Kazakhstan might sound inconvenient due to language difference but its easier than you think!

1. Prepare USD or Euros to buy Tenge when you reach. You can also change near the Green Bazaar. There are plenty of counters there. Cash is still predominantly used. Credit card is accepted in larger stores.

2. Getting a SIM card is a breeze at the airport.

3. Prior to the trip, download Yandex Go, Kazakh and Kyrgys version of Grab. Pay in cash.

Malls will be malls and they are quite similiar to the Malaysian ones with food court and a supermarket. Their version of Lotus's is Magnum.

#almaty #icecapmountains #kazakhstan #yandex #traveller #wanderlust #greenbazaar #lifestyleblogger #qazaqstan #centralasia #krygyzstan

Almaty Airport

Change Tenge currency when you reach

You can get a simcard at the airport so that you can hire ehailing - Yandex

There was only one choice at that time for 6000KZT

At the arrival exit of Almaty Airport

Waiting for Yandex at the ehailing area

In the Yandex transport on the way to the accomodation

Comfortable homes rented from Booking.com

Went to the nearest mall for some food

Food court on the first day

Mornings with the view of ice-capped mountains from the apartment

Cooking simple breakfast

Out and about to explore Almaty!

Plaza Premium Lounge Celebrates winning the “World’s Best Independent Airport Lounge” by Skytrax - 8 years in a row

Plaza Premium Lounge Celebrates winning the

“World’s Best Independent Airport Lounge” at World Airline Awards by Skytrax for the Eighth year in a row

• Plaza Premium Lounge has won the title of "World's Best Independent Airport Lounge" from 2016 to 2024

• Plaza Premium Lounge Rome strikes gold again, following its triumph from last year

• Plaza Premium Lounge in Dubai International Airport ranked 5th in the category

Plaza Premium Lounge, the world's first independent airport lounge brand and the largest global independent lounge network under Plaza Premium Group, was awarded the "World's Best Independent Airport Lounge" at the prestigious World Airline Awards 2024 by Skytrax today in London. 

This was the eighth consecutive time that the company received this title since 2016. Plaza Premium Lounge Rome at Leonardo da Vinci-Fiumicino Airport (FCO) at T3 Departures topped the list again, building on its triumph in 2023, while Plaza Premium Lounge in Dubai International Airport ranked 5th.

Travellers can savour a fine selection of food and

beverages while relaxing at the lounge in Rome

The lounge in Dubai offers experiences tailored to all kindsof travelers, including leisure, business, and
families

Mr. Song Hoi See, Founder and CEO of Plaza Premium Group said: "Receiving this prestigious award for eight consecutive years is an absolute honour. Twenty-six years ago, we introduced the world's first
independent airport lounge concept, and we have come a long way. Today, we operate in 80 international airports across 30 countries, with over 250 locations, and have expanded beyond just offering lounge service to providing a comprehensive 360-degree airport experience. Travel continues to change whether in the context of travel patterns, airport innovations, and passenger behaviour. We believe travel should be a pleasure and so whatever the journey, we aim to anticipate and evolve our offerings to build with the present and future passengers in mind.

We extend our heartfelt gratitude to Skytrax for this recognition, and also to our airport partners, business partners, as well as industry friends around the world who have supported us throughout the years. Of course, we owe everything to our teams for their unwavering commitment in providing excellent service to travelers every day. This award is a testament to their hard work and passion. ”

Edward Plaisted, CEO of Skytrax said: "We congratulate Plaza Premium Lounge on being named the
World's Best Independent Airport Lounge operator, and to win this for the eighth consecutive year is a
fabulous achievement. The highest ranked Plaza Premium Lounge in 2024 is at Rome Fiumicino Airport and as the world’s best known lounge provider - Plaza Premium Group management and entire team should be very proud of this very high recognition from customers."

PPG continues to build on its legacy of excellence and to expand its footprint while prioritising
sustainability, digitalisation, and people. The company continues to evolve and create value for travelers, holding true to its core mission of “making travel better”.

The "Proudly Local" experience was recently introduced at Plaza Premium Lounge in six inaugural locations, including the award-winning Rome lounge and the Dubai lounge, which is also one of the 

Top-
5 in the award category, as part of the "Your Destination Before Departure" campaign. The other locations include Kuala Lumpur, Jakarta, Nagoya, and Adelaide.

Song explained: “Travelers these days are increasingly driven by experiences, and we recognise the need to evolve along with them. With that in mind, Plaza Premium Lounge is now more than just a lounge; it transforms into an airport destination where passengers can eat, drink, work, and refresh before their flights, while immersed in the culture of that particular airport location.

Our wish is for travelers to find inspiration and establish deeper connections with a city through its food, art, and people. It demonstrates the 'culture' element of our brand promises, alongside comfort,
convenience, love, care, and value, we believe good hospitality will contribute to making the airport
journey a better part of flying.”

Feeling The Twist at the Tiger Soju Flavoured Lager Launch Party

At the launch party of Tiger Soju Flavoured Lager - packed with a slew of curated immersive experiences and live performances by local and international acts alike – 4,500 fans got to feel, see and taste the twist. Playful adventure awaited them as they stepped into the world of Tiger’s newly launched innovation in the Malaysian market.

Are you ready for Tiger's new flavour?

Tiger lager in new flavour-Gutsy Grape soju. Enjoyable with a refreshing twist

As doors opened to fans, they were in for an evening of exploration and refreshment from experiences and engagements with a twist, to flavour experimentation. The journey began at a tunnel with inviting neon lighting leading consumers into the immersive world of Tiger Soju Flavoured Lager. While sampling the latest product in the flavour, Gutsy Grape, attendees were able to get into the spirit of playful adventure.

The Tiger Soju Gutsy Grape flavour is delicious!

With @shawnleebeatbox

Enjoying the party with my sisters

Fans not only got to be the part but look the part with the ‘Twist Makeover’ where they got a complimentary makeover in experimental styles and colours with makeup and even accessories to really feel the twist. Besides sampling the newly launched product, at the Tiger Soju Flavoured Lager Bar, attendees were able to taste exclusive Tiger Soju Flavoured Lager cocktails, mixed with omija berry and ginger flower, all while enjoying exclusive Asian snacks from the MiX.Store booth.

In line with the brand’s aim of turning everyday moments into lively ones, fans were able to enjoy a series of live DJ sets by Queen T, Julian and Sherry Alyssa, to hip hop performances by the Ban Huat crew featuring YUNGKAI, S.A.C, and Dato Maw, K-pop dance medleys, but that’s not all. South Korean rapper, Loco, widely loved for his sincere lyrics and melodic flow by both domestic and international fans, headlined the launch party, performing his top hits for local fans.

Captivating live performances

“With the launch of a product that is bold and lively, we want consumers to be part of the fun by providing them with a space to explore and experiment. It was exciting to see the way people expressed themselves playfully – we hope our fans continue to celebrate their everyday occasions in fun ways with the Tiger brand, and always with a twist,” said Willemijn Sneep, Marketing Director at Heineken Malaysia Berhad. Tiger Soju Flavoured Lager is now available in Gutsy Grape across Peninsular Malaysia in bottles and cans at all major supermarkets, convenience stores, minimarts, bars, restaurants, and online retail channels, including Drinkies. 

For more information on Tiger Soju Flavoured Lager, visit https://tigersoju.tigerbeer.com, as well as the brand’s social media pages at https://www.facebook.com/TigerBeerMY and https://www.instagram.com/tigerbeermy/. Tiger and all related promotions and activities are strictly for non-Muslims aged 21 and above only. Tiger advocates responsible consumption and urges consumers to not drink and drive.

Tiger Soju Gutsy Grape flavour

HEINEKEN Malaysia is committed to advocating responsible consumption by championing responsible drinking behaviours through its Enjoy Responsibly campaign. HEINEKEN Malaysia’s corporate social responsibility initiatives are carried out by its CSR arm, SPARK Foundation, focusing on environment and community partnerships.

HEINEKEN Malaysia through its e-commerce platform, Drinkies now delivers chilled beers and ciders on demand. Drinkies also offers freshly tapped beers to cater for home parties and other events including weddings and corporate dinners. For enquiries, call 012-281 8888 or visit www.drinkies.my.

Listed on the Bursa Malaysia Main Market, the principal shareholder of HEINEKEN Malaysia is G.A.P.L. Pte Ltd headquartered in Singapore. GAPL Pte Ltd is 100% owned by Heineken N.V.   

For more information, please visit: www.heinekenmalaysia.com.   

Experience a New Era of Samsung AI Powered TV: Latest 2024 TV and Audio Lineups

Samsung Electronics Malaysia is proud to unveil its groundbreaking line of AI-powered TVs, featuring their latest Neo QLED 8K and 4K, and OLED TV. With cutting-edge technology and innovative features, Samsung's latest AI powered TVs are set to redefine smart viewing. Designed to transform consumers’ home entertainment experience, Samsung’s 2024 lineup gets an upgrade in performance with advanced processors, offering a range of class-leading and AI-driven solutions.

AI-nnovative Performance: Elevating Senses/ Viewing Experience with Neo QLED 8K

Setting a new benchmark with its lifelike picture quality, premium audio technology and rich array of apps and services, the Neo QLED 8K redefines the viewing experience with its groundbreaking NQ8 AI Gen3 processor. The cutting-edge processor stands as Samsung's fastest and most robust AI engine to date, thanks to its on-device AI engine, the Neural Processing Unit (NPU). The AI engine delivers twice the speed of its predecessor along with an eightfold increase, from 64 to 512, in neural networks. Promising an exceptional viewing experience, the AI engine is also designed to simultaneously process vast amounts of pictures and sound, bringing out the finest details with outstanding clarity and naturalness, all while optimising energy consumption.

Featuring its 8K AI Upscaling 1, the Neo QLED leverages the advancements of the NQ8 AI Gen3 processor and neural networks to significantly improve sharpening low resolution content and harnessing the full potential of Samsung’s immaculate 8K display. The Neo QLED also features the AI Motion Enhancer Pro 2 , which enhances smoother and clearer visuals, solving common issues of streaming high-resolution sports matches, and the Real Depth Enhancer

Pro, which adds lifelike depth to features, setting a new standard in visual immersion. Available in two models, the QN800D and QN900D are offered in 75 and 85 inches. The QN900D model specifically boasts an Infinity Air Design which includes a slim side profile with a 13.1mm screen, supported by its Mystic Floating Stand that portrays a unique mirror effect.

AI Energy Mode

Additionally, the AI Energy Mode intelligently saves energy by analysing user behaviours and surrounding conditions. Through its Environment Adaptive Brightness, the TV dynamically adjusts its brightness based on changes in home lighting, enhancing depth and black expression for optimal viewing experience with energy usage monitored through built-in IoT Hub support, SmartThings.

Save energy smartly

Extensive AI features across Samsung TV lineups: Neo QLED 4K and OLED

A wider array of choices to suit diverse lifestyles and preferences is also being introduced to consumers with the Samsung Neo QLED 4K and OLED TV lineups. These extensive product offerings outline Samsung’s consumer-centric approach for all Malaysians.

Inspired by Neo QLED 8K flagship TVs, the 2024 Neo QLED 4K is a state-of-the-art innovation that enhances the viewing experience powered by the NQ4 AI Gen2 Processor. This advanced chip breathes new life into every scene, delivering stunning 4K resolution with unparalleled clarity. Complemented by Real Depth Enhancer Pro 3 and Quantum Matrix Technology, the screen guarantees exceptional contrast, even amidst the most intricate visuals. Setting a new standard in colour accuracy, the Pantone Validated display will optimize the viewing experience further. Available in sizes ranging from 55 to 98 inches, the Neo QLED 4K series caters to diverse viewing preferences, ensuring the ultimate 4K UHD experience for all.

Samsung also introduces its Glare-Free OLED, eliminating unnecessary reflection while preserving deep blacks and clear images under any lighting condition. Powered by the same formidable NQ4 AI Gen2 Processor as the Neo QLED 4K lineup, Samsung’s OLED TVs boast features like the Real Depth Enhancer and OLED HDR Pro, bringing picture quality to new heights.

Powered by the feature of Motion Xcelerator 144Hz 4 , OLED TVs perform fluid motion and rapid
response times which stands as the ultimate gaming companion. Enhanced by sleek designs, these OLED TVs are offered in two models — S95D and S90D — available in 65 to 77 inches, thus redefining the viewing environment for every household.

The Frame 2024: Your Art Gallery on TV

Frame up your TV for an impressive aesthetic finish

The Frame, top-selling lifestyle screen product, introduces new enhancements for an elevated art experience. With over 2,500 artworks from renowned museums and galleries available in the Art Store, users enjoy an enriched selection. The 2024 edition further enhances their experience by reducing energy costs through variable refresh rate adjustment available in ArtMode5, ensuring both aesthetic enjoyment and energy efficiency.

Diverse and Expansive Audio Lineup for Every Entertainment Enthusiast

The state-of-the-art TV also delivers precise audio powered by AI sound technology for rich and lifelike sound. Samsung’s newest innovation, Active Voice Amplifier (AVA) Pro Function, acts as an AI dialogue booster that utilises deep-learning technology to significantly enhance dialogue and voices on screen. By extracting voices from mixed audio, it ensures that every word can be heard clearly, allowing users to follow conversations at any volume.

Samsung has also introduced the AI Customization Mode, which automatically adjusts picture settings to users' preferences and the AI Auto Game Mode offers seamless gaming by recognizing game titles and optimising picture and sound quality settings accordingly.

Can you tell which is the speaker? (the ones in white frames)

Inspired by The Frame, Samsung introduced the all-new Music Frame, offering a seamless harmony for users and their surroundings. Whether it is a standalone or mounted on the wall, the new device embodies the perfect fusion of functionality and sophistication, enabling users to showcase its personalised/customisable features, personal photos or artwork while immersing themselves in wireless audio, enhanced with smart features such as the built-in voice assistant.

Sound system that blends with your home

With wireless connectivity via Wi-Fi and Bluetooth, the Music Frame offers effortless music streaming from your mobile devices, accommodating up to five connections simultaneously for shared enjoyment throughout your home. As this versatile device operates independently or can be synchronised up to two devices using the Q-Symphony technology, it augments the viewing experience with immersive surround sound that perfectly complements any living space.

Despite its compact size, the Music Frame delivers a powerful 2.0ch audio experience, with Dolby Atmos® support for an immersive sound experience that adds depth, clarity, and details whether you are watching a movie, streaming music, or simply enjoying the ambiance. Similarly, the Q-series Soundbar, which also features support for Dolby Atmos, synchronises seamlessly with Samsung TVs, combining front, side, and up-firing speakers for a heightened acoustic immersion that redefines entertainment experiences.

“We are excited to be working with Samsung Malaysia in bringing Dolby Atmos to the new Samsung Neo QLED 8K TVs, Q-Series Soundbars and the latest Music Frame,” said Ashim Mathur, Vice President, APAC Marketing, Dolby Laboratories. “Dolby Atmos delivers a premium, multidimensional audio experience with depth, clarity, and details like never before.

With a large and constantly growing library of titles available in Dolby Atmos, consumers in Malaysia will be able to enjoy their favourite entertainment in sound that moves all around them with breath-taking realism.”

Enhancing Security and Personalisation with Samsung Knox

The new Tizen OS Home offers personalised experiences through its ecosystem with individual user accounts, tailoring content recommendations to each household member. The intuitive UI simplifies content discovery, with Samsung Knox Security safeguarding sensitive data and protecting against unauthorised access or malware. With features like Knox Vault, a dedicated security chip, Samsung ensures encrypted data transfer between all connected devices, providing peace of mind in the ever-connected digital age.

Samsung Tizen OS delivers as a one-stop destination for all. The Samsung TV delivers over 2,500 live TV channels and a vast amount of on-demand content including live TV, on-demand shows and curated content categories. The Samsung Daily+ also integrates entertainment, health, and commerce in one TV hub, offering a comprehensive suite of features for a connected lifestyle.

Furthermore, SmartThings’ latest enhancements create a more connected living room experience, enabling users to effortlessly monitor and manage all their other smart Samsung devices and home appliances, conveniently from their TV as the smart hub control centre.

Check out the below tables for prices of super big TVs!

From 3 May - 30 June 2024, consumers can earn unbeatable rewards such as Touch n’ Go e-Wallet credits up to RM2,900 and win prizes worth a total of RM140,000 on the latest Samsung AI TV lineup and sound devices. Consumers can also participate in a running contest to win bonus gifts such as the Q-Series Soundbar, Galaxy S24, and Bespoke Jet Plus by uploading the receipt and a creative photo. To learn more about Samsung's 2024 lineup of TV products, rewards, convenience, and experiences, please visit https://www.samsung.com/my/offer/2024-ai-tv/launch/.

Launch Promotion for 2024 Samsung TVs:

No.	Segment	Material Code	RRP (RM)	TNG Credit Value (RM)	Free Gift with Purchase
1	Neo QLED 8K	QA85QN900DKXXM	46,999	2,500	-
2	Neo QLED 8K	QA75QN900DKXXM	30,999	1,300	-
3	Neo QLED 8K	QA85QN800DKXXM	32,999	1,700	-
4	Neo QLED 8K	QA75QN800DKXXM	24,999	1,000	-
5	OLED	QA77S95DAKXXM	32,999	1,600	-
6	OLED	QA65S95DAKXXM	17,999	700	-
7	OLED	QA77S90DAEXXM	28,999	1,400	-
8	OLED	QA65S90DAKXXM	15,999	600	-
9	Neo QLED 4K	QA98QN90DAKXXM	69,999	2,900	-
10	Neo QLED 4K	QA85QN90DAKXXM	24,999	1,300	-
11	Neo QLED 4K	QA75QN90DAKXXM	15,999	700	-
12	Neo QLED 4K	QA65QN90DAKXXM	12,299	500	-
13	Neo QLED 4K	QA85QN87DAKXXM	20,999	1,100	-
14	Neo QLED 4K	QA75QN87DAKXXM	13,999	600	-
15	Neo QLED 4K	QA65QN87DAKXXM	9,899	400	-
16	Neo QLED 4K	QA85QN85DBKXXM	18,599	900	-
17	Neo QLED 4K	QA75QN85DBKXXM	11,999	500	-
18	Neo QLED 4K	QA65QN85DBKXXM	8,299	300	-
19	QLED	QA98Q80CAKXXM	33,999	1,400	-
20	QLED	QA85Q80DAKXXM	15,999	600	-
21	QLED	QA75Q80DAKXXM	11,499	400	-
22	QLED	QA85Q70DAKXXM	14,199	500	-
23	QLED	QA75Q70DAKXXM	10,199	300	-
24	QLED	QA85Q65DAKXXM	10,999	500	-
25	QLED	QA75Q65DAKXXM	6,999	300	-
26	QLED	QA85Q60DAKXXM	10,999	500	-
27	QLED	QA75Q60DAKXXM	6,799	300	-
28	The Frame	QA85LS03DAKXXM	19,799	800	1x Bezel worth RM899
29	The Frame	QA75LS03DAKXXM	12,399	500	1x Bezel worth RM799
30	The Frame	QA65LS03DAKXXM	8,399	300	1x Bezel worth RM699
31	The Frame	QA55LS03DAKXXM	6,199	200	1x Bezel worth RM599
32	Crystal UHD	UA98DU9000KXXM	17,999	700	-
33	Crystal UHD	UA85DU8000KXXM	8,999	400	-
34	Crystal UHD	UA85DU7000KXXM	8,299	300	-

Launch Promotion for 2024 Samsung Sound Devices:

No.	Segment	Material Code	RRP (RM)	TNG Credit Value (RM)	PWP Pricing (RM)
1	Q-Series Soundbar	HW-Q990D/XM	6,499	300	4,999
2	Q-Series Soundbar	HW-Q930D/XM	4,999	250	3,699
3	Q-Series Soundbar	HW-Q800D/XM	3,999	200	2,999
4	Q-Series Soundbar	HW-Q700D/XM	2,999	150	2,299
5	Music Frame	HW-LS60D/XM	1,999	-	1,499