Asian Food Guide: Cambodian Food for Beginners

Heading to Cambodia (SIEM REAP, CAMBODIA TRAVEL) and wondering what to expect from its food? You’re in for a treat! If you're a fan of Asian cuisine, Cambodian food offers a delightful mix of flavors. Drawing influences from Malaysia, Thailand, Vietnam, China, and Indonesia, the food ranges from fresh and subtle to bold and spicy. Whether you’re at a street stall, casual eatery, or upscale restaurant, there’s something to suit every palate. And don’t worry, vegetarians will find plenty of flavorful options, too.

How to Order Cambodian Food

Not speaking Cambodian? No problem! When you're at street food stalls, just point to the dish you want. Vendors are used to tourists, and a smile will go a long way. In restaurants, menus usually have pictures and sometimes English translations, making it easy to order. Be mindful of portion sizes, though - they might surprise you,

Best Things To do In South India

There’s so much more to discover when it comes to things to do in South India, especially with the diverse experiences across the states we journeyed through (BEST TOURIST SPOTS IN SOUTH INDIA). Traveling by coach allowed us the pleasure of catching up on sleep and admiring the ever-changing scenery. From bustling cities to quaint villages, from being caught in traffic jams to taking comfort breaks along the way, it was all part of the adventure. Our sightseeing journey officially began in the misty hills of Kodaikanal.

Traditional Malay Food Review: Selera Kampung Nasi Campur

For the longest time, whenever we’re at AEON Bukit Rimau, Shah Alam, Selangor to run errands or pick up a few things, we never miss having lunch at Selera Kampung Nasi Campur. Sometimes, I even bring along my containers to pack their food back home. We usually arrive early, around 11:30 am, to avoid the lunchtime crowd. This stall is by far the most popular among the few in the food court.

5 Simple Mental Health Tips for Daily Well-Being

Mental health awareness has grown significantly, but it remains a major challenge in the fast-paced 21st century. This issue affects not only adults but also younger generations and children. The rush, hustle, and bustle of modern urban life have dramatically changed our lifestyles, often impacting mental wellness. The struggles in the mind are real, and instead of letting life’s pressures overwhelm us, it’s time to fasten our seatbelts and take action to protect our mental well-being (NATURE MENTAL HEALTH BENEFITS).

Bread Pudding Recipe: Malaysian Style

When it comes to bread pudding, it's all about waste not, want not. This Malaysian-style bread pudding is my go-to when I need to use up near-expiry bread slices - crusts included (VEGETARIAN EASY BREAD PUDDING). No waste, no fuss. And when you add the beautiful aroma of pandan leaves (screwpine), you get that unmistakable local Malaysian flavour.

This is a healthier version of bread pudding. Instead of condensed milk, which is often too rich and sugary, I use plain carton milk and go easy on the sugar. You can even swap in coconut milk if you prefer a richer, creamier texture.

Best Tourist Spots in South India, India

South India comprises several states in the southern part of India - Tamil Nadu, Karnataka, Andhra Pradesh, Telangana, and Kerala (TOURIST PLACES IN KERALA). Our nine-day trip began in Bengaluru, Karnataka, and continued to Mysuru (also in Karnataka) and Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu. Though this was another solo trip for me, I joined a tour group of about 20 people, traveling by coach from one destination to another.

Bengaluru, Karnataka

Lalbagh Botanical Garden

Spanning over 240 acres, Lalbagh Botanical Garden is one of Bengaluru’s must-visit attractions. Established in 1760 by Hyder Ali, it features more than 1,000 plant species from across the world. The garden’s highlight is the Glass House, which hosts an annual flower show inspired by London’s Crystal Palace.

Holistic Wellness: 5 Quick Yoga Tips

What Is Holistic Wellness? 

Key “holistic wellness” into any search engine and dozens of definitions pop up. Most say roughly the same thing. Ask Ms. Nava, founder of Nava’s Zen Holistic Wellness, and she’ll tell you this:

 

Holistic Wellness is about your complete self - your whole package inside and out - linked to everything that matters to you: where you live, what you do, who you’re with, and when you do it. It’s the connection you discover between breath, body, mind, and soul.

How to Make Fried Banana Chips - Indian Style

Always a favorite, don’t you agree? Fried Banana Chips are a staple in my home - whether as a crispy snack or a crunchy side dish for vegetarian and non-vegetarian meals. I’ve made these Indian-style banana chips countless times, and they never fail to satisfy (CRISPY FRIED BITTER GOURD).

This recipe is pure vegetarian, vegan, and plant-based, made using raw green bananas - known as Valakkai in Tamil. You might hear them referred to as Valakkai chips or sometimes Valakkai poriyal, although poriyal typically refers to stir-fries (FRIED CAULIFLOWER RECIPES).

Kopitiam Review: Kawan Place Kota Kemuning

Located on a corner lot in Kota Kemuning, Shah Alam, Selangor, Kawan Place offers a choice of indoor or outdoor seating. Green is their highlight color - seen on the signboard, façade, and dining area - while the overall ambiance feels clean and welcoming. We arrived on a Monday at about 11:15 a.m.; as we entered the indoor dining area, we noticed a few customers tucking into their meals at the outside pavement dining area (WHERE TO EAT IN PERAK).

Chinese Steamed Chicken Recipe

By far, the easiest, simplest, and most uncomplicated Chinese steamed chicken recipe. This is a homemade version, not to be compared with restaurant-style steamed chicken. Mine is different - I've added my own twist while keeping it budget-friendly (NO-COOK EASY CHICKEN SALAD).

Steamed food is generally healthier than fried food, and this Chinese steamed chicken is no exception. The minimalist cooking method keeps it light and clean. It’s perfect for a light dinner, and if you’re having an early meal, pair it with a small portion of rice. You can also discard the chicken skin if you prefer a leaner version (CHICKEN RENDANG RECIPE).

Mental Health Benefits of Nature

In today’s fast-paced urban life, the focus - or rather, the unspoken truth - is on success, achievements, and fame. The daily grind, constant hustling, and overwhelming traffic and pollution contribute to rising stress, burnout, and mental exhaustion. The digital age has also introduced screen fatigue and a culture of prolonged sitting, both of which negatively impact our overall well-being (BENEFITS OF BUTTERFLY BLUE PEA FLOWER).

Best Turmeric Rice Recipe: Rice Cooker Style

Turmeric rice is not just delicious - it's a golden symbol of wellness and cultural fusion. At the heart of this dish is turmeric powder, an essential spice in Indian cooking and a celebrated ingredient worldwide for its numerous health benefits (HOMEMADE EASY MANGO CHUTNEY). With the rise of healthy eating and holistic wellness, turmeric has earned its place in kitchens around the globe.

In this recipe, turmeric is the star ingredient, delivering its signature golden hue and earthy, peppery flavor. You might ask, why is this the best turmeric rice recipe? Well, during one of my best memorable travels - to South Africa - I learned to make South African Yellow Rice, a dish influenced by the Indian community there (PRETORIA SOUTH AFRICA MOMENTS).

5 Common Mistakes to Avoid If You’re Planning to Remodel Your Kitchen

A kitchen remodel can be an exciting project, but it’s also very complex and involves different kinds of components. Hence, it’s easy to overlook details that can create major problems down the line and lead to overspending.  

While homeowners often think of what they should do to create their dream kitchen, it’s equally important to understand what they shouldn’t do, ensuring a seamless and successful transformation of their culinary space. Below, we outline the most common mistakes homeowners make when remodelling their kitchens so that you can sidestep them and create a kitchen that’s practical and aesthetic at the same time.

Vegetarian White Bee Hoon Recipe - Indian Style

A timeless classic, this Vegetarian White Bee Hoon Indian Style brings back the nostalgia of humble, home-cooked meals. Known for its simplicity, affordability, and wholesome ingredients, this dish is a favourite in Indian households (MEE GORENG/FRIED MEE).

Back in the day, it was a go-to budget-friendly meal for families like mine (EASIEST EGG FRIED RICE) Today, it’s appreciated for its clean, healthy ingredients and nostalgic value. This easy stir-fried white bee hoon (also known as rice vermicelli) is rich in fiber, vitamin C, vitamin K, and antioxidants - thanks to cabbage, curry leaves, mustard seeds, chillies, and shallots.

Where to Eat in Perak: A Foodie’s Guide

Perak is one of Malaysia’s states where food is never in short supply. From hawker stalls and humble street setups to upscale restaurants and hotel dining, you’ll find a variety of hearty meals. As for us, we chose to go with the flow (WHAT TO DO IN PERAK) - stopping wherever caught our attention instead of planning too much. Whether you’re visiting for the first time or you're a curious local (CAMERON HIGHLANDS TRAVEL GUIDE), this guide shares some of the must-try eateries we explored across Perak.

Little House Café (Jalan Stesen, Tapah)

A quick online search while passing through Tapah brought us to this old-school, humble kopitiam. We ordered Black Pepper Chicken Chop, Hainanese Chicken Chop with fries, Fish Soy Rice Set, and Petai Squid Rice Set. Every dish was satisfying, home-style, and generous in portion. Halal Malaysian fusion at an affordable price—definitely worth stopping for. (WHERE & WHAT TO EAT IN PENANG). Even as a small eater, I finished my Hainanese Chicken Chop!

Pepper Mutton Curry/Masala Recipe

When it comes to mutton, it's a staple in our household - especially for my husband, who insists on having his mutton fix at least once a month (EASY MUTTON DALCHA/LENTIL CURRY). Over time, I’ve experimented with various styles, and this time, it’s Pepper Mutton Curry, also known as Pepper Mutton Masala.

Black pepper is a key ingredient in South Indian mutton dishes, often featured in curry, dry-style masala, or what’s commonly referred to as mutton varuval or roast. My version can be adjusted based on consistency:

More water: Pepper Mutton Curry

Less water: Pepper Mutton Masala

Minimal water: Mutton Roast