Thursday, July 17, 2025

Travelling as a Path to Mental Well-Being and Joy of Life

 

It is a well-established fact that globetrotters don't simply escape their daily routines; rather, they enter an unknown, magical world full of surprises and discoveries. Everyone who leaves their comfort zone is exposed to unusual experiences, diverse cultures, languages, and customs.  This self-discovery not only broadens their horizons but also positively affects physical and emotional well-being, leading to greater life satisfaction levels. Let's take a closer look at the mental health perks of travel. 

 

Nourishing Your Brain 
Psychologists have long noticed that travel stimulates blissful emotions and has a beneficial effect on the human psyche. When we venture to a spot we have never been before, or even just change the environment, our brains are supposed to adapt to novel conditions. 

Tuesday, July 15, 2025

Indonesia Food Guide

Varieties of raw sliced Indonesian salads, in two rattan trays, for a buffet meal.
Indonesia is a large country both in size and population. With an estimated population of over 277 million people (as of 2025), it is the fourth most populous country in the world. Geographically, Indonesia is the largest archipelago, made up of over 17,000 islands, and ranks as the 14th largest country by land area (MOUNT MERAPI INDONESIA TOUR). 

With such diversity across its regions, Indonesia’s food culture is just as wide-ranging. In every city or town, food is part of daily life, and eating out is common. You might also come across Indonesian food outside the country, as some Indonesians living abroad have introduced it through small eateries or food ventures (IKAN BALADO RECIPE).

Saturday, July 12, 2025

Stir-Fried Winged Beans: Kacang Botol Goreng Belacan

Stir-fried winged beans/kacang botol with pounded chillies, garlic, shallots, and shrimp paste, seasoned with lime, salt, and palm sugar.
Winged beans - also known as four-angled beans, four-winged beans, or kacang botol in Bahasa Malaysia, are a popular vegetable in Malaysian kitchens (SARDINE SAMBAL/SAMBAL SARDIN). I've been trying to grow them, but with no luck so far. Honestly, I don’t know why!

Winged beans can be eaten raw, dipped into sambal belacan (SAMBAL BELACAN RECIPES), or cooked into one of our Malaysian favourites - spicy stir-fried winged beans, known as kacang botol goreng belacan. You can find this dish in Malay eateries (MALAY VEGETABLE STEW/SAYUR LODEH) and Chinese restaurants across the country 

Wednesday, July 9, 2025

Yoga for your pre-wedding planning process: Why is it a great way to manage the stress of this period and be Zen?

A wedding is among the most important days in your life, and particularly because of its significance, this event can bring considerable stress. This is why you must look for other ways that can help you alleviate some of the anxiety and stress of this period. It can be easy to get caught up in your wedding planning, but this process can also leave you feeling exhausted. This occurs because you have a long list of tasks to accomplish, and among the most important ones are finding your bride's dress, organizing the guest list, selecting the right venue, and searching for suitable vendors, among others.


So, when you want to be Zen and alleviate some of the stress, you can try yoga, which is one of the best ways to relax, spend time focusing on yourself, and also keep you in great shape. In this article, we will explore why incorporating yoga into your pre-wedding planning is a great idea. Keep reading to learn more.  

Tuesday, July 8, 2025

Asian Travel Food Guide: What to Eat in Vietnam

Steamed Vietnamese fish in sauce with onions and herbs.
Vietnamese food stands out as one of Asia’s most vibrant and flavor-packed cuisines. With big, bold tastes and distinct character, it holds its own alongside Cambodian, Thai, Malaysian, and Indonesian food (SPICY LEMONGRASS FISH). When it comes to Asian flavours, it’s all about elevating the taste experience, and Vietnam delivers that through a unique mix of fresh ingredients and local cooking styles.

 

Whether you’re a meat lover or vegetarian, there’s something for everyone. Vietnamese food strikes a balance between subtlety and richness - dishes that gently light up the tastebuds without overpowering. So, what should you eat in Vietnam? The options are endless, from street stalls and roadside carts to restaurants and even high-end eateries (THINGS TO DO IN VIETNAM).

Saturday, July 5, 2025

Sun Protection: Biore UV Perfect Protect Milk Review

Outer packaging of Biore UV Perfect Protect Milk SPF50+ PA+++ sunscreen; yellow bottle, white cap, dark blue text.
How important is sun protection? In my opinion, it’s not just important, it’s non-negotiable for anyone serious about maintaining healthy skin. Regular use of sunscreen helps reduce the risk of wrinkles, pigmentation, and premature aging (PALMER'S SKIN THERAPY OIL). While the term “sunblock” still appears in casual conversations, it’s outdated in the skincare world. Sunscreens like Biore UV Perfect Protect Milk SPF50+ PA+++ offer reliable, broad-spectrum protection without claiming to block 100% of UV rays.

(A quick look at Biore UV Perfect Protect Milk SPF50+ PA+++ — lightweight texture, smooth application, and sun protection in action.)

Tuesday, July 1, 2025

Indian Food Near Me: Restaurant Dhiyaz Curry House

Bright yellow and dark brown themed front counter at an Indian restaurant.
Restaurant Dhiyaz Curry House, which opened its doors in April, is one of the newer additions to the growing list of eateries in the now-popular Bandar Rimbayu area. Located at No. 20, 1/3, Persiaran Rimba, 42500 Bandar Rimbayu, Kuala Langat, Selangor, it’s a relatively short drive from our place in Kemuning Greenville, Kota Kemuning. We left at 11.00 a.m. and arrived by 11.15 a.m. on a Tuesday.

Walking in, we noticed three customers having their meals. The ambiance was welcoming - clean, brightly lit with yellow walls, and accented with a touch of Indian décor. No menu was handed out. Instead, we walked to the food counter and, from the decent spread available at that hour, we opted for two side dishes to go with our South Indian banana leaf lunch (RM11.90 each).

Saturday, June 28, 2025

How to Make Easy Rice Pudding

Rice pudding with basmati rice, coconut milk, ghee, sugar, almonds, blackcurrants, and stevia leaves.
Looking for a simple, comforting dessert? This easy rice pudding is made with pantry staples like rice, sugar, and milk or coconut milk. It is similar to Indian kheer from the north and payasam from the south - both loved for their creamy texture and gentle sweetness (HOW TO MAKE PAYASAM).

This recipe is flexible (SAGO PALM SUGAR), affordable, and a great way to whip up something satisfying without fuss. If you’ve got rice and some form of milk, you’re already halfway there.

Tuesday, June 24, 2025

Asian Food Guide: Cambodian Food for Beginners

Three slices of purple custard apple on a plate.
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,

Saturday, June 21, 2025

Best Things To do In South India

Indian lady tourist posing from behind the tall tree, in nature setting, in Kodaikanal, 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.

Tuesday, June 17, 2025

Traditional Malay Food Review: Selera Kampung Nasi Campur

Red and white neon signboard mounted above a food court Malay food stalls.
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.

Saturday, June 14, 2025

5 Simple Mental Health Tips for Daily Well-Being

Yoga instructor standing outdoors, stretching both arms out, surrounded by green nature.
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).

Tuesday, June 10, 2025

Bread Pudding Recipe: Malaysian Style

Bread pudding with screwpine leaves extract, milk, eggs, sugar, and butter in a clear square Pyrex dish.
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.

Saturday, June 7, 2025

Best Tourist Spots in South India, India

Indian lady in traditional punjabi attire, with head wrapped in scarf, with both palms together in an Indian temple.
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.

Tuesday, June 3, 2025

Holistic Wellness: 5 Quick Yoga Tips

Yoga instructor stands on a chair, one leg bend, hands on the wall in an advanced standing pose.
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.

Saturday, May 31, 2025

How to Make Fried Banana Chips - Indian Style

Some Indian style crispy fried green banana chips in a plastic cannister.
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).

Travelling as a Path to Mental Well-Being and Joy of Life

resource 1   It is a well-established fact that globetrotters don't simply escape their daily routines; rather, they enter an unknow...