Celebrating My 50th Birthday in Eastern China: A Soulful Escape to Hangzhou, Hongchun & Qiandaohu Turning 50 wasn’t just a milestone! It was a whisper from my soul to pause, breathe, and wander somewhere poetic. So last October, I gifted myself a journey to Eastern China, embracing the gentle rhythm of Hangzhou, the timeless charm of Hongchun, and the serene waters of Qiandaohu (Thousand-Island Lake). No rush. No pressure. Just me, my curious heart, and a knee that demanded kindness. My Route: Hangzhou → Hongchun → Qiandaohu → Hangzhou Days 1–4: Hangzhou – Where Heaven Meets Earth They say, “In heaven there is paradise, on earth there is Hangzhou.” I now understand why. Where I Stayed: Nostalgia S Hotel (Hubin Hefang Street) Strategically located—just a stroll away from Qinghefang Street, West Lake, Lingyin Temple, and the metro. Be careful not to confuse it with the similarly named hotel inside West Lake it’s a bit too chaotic for my taste. What I Did: Qiantang Canal Cruise ...
In general, most people are advised to start using retinol in their mid-20s. Why do we need retinol for our skin? Well, this is because collagen and elastin production starts to slow down. Adding retinol into our skincare routine at age of 25 to 30 is the perfect time to slow down the ageing process. So, what is retinol that people are hyping about? In short, retinol is a topical product containing a vitamin A derivative. Technically speaking a type of retinoid which works to increase collagen production. It helps to treat acne, and blackheads and is also ideal to improve skincare texture such as minimising fine lines, and wrinkles and brightening dull skin. Personally, I am a beginner in adding Retinol into my skincare routine. At the age of 47 years old. I guess, am afraid to start one because I read many side effects if use it wrong. What is the side effect if you use retinol wrong? Retinols can increase your skin's sensitivity to sunlight. So, it is advisable to apply th...