Things to Do in Malacca, Malaysia

Malacca, one of Malaysia’s historical cities, is renowned for its legendary history and cultural heritage. Called Melaka by locals, its origins trace back to the founding of the Malacca Sultanate around 1400. Its location along the Straits of Malacca attracted Chinese traders for ceramics, silk, and other goods, as well as Indian and Arab merchants for spices, textiles, and other commodities.

In 1511, the Portuguese became the first European power to capture Malacca, followed by the Dutch in 1641 and the British in 1824. Recognised as a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 2008, Malacca’s history is reflected in its top attractions and heritage sites.

Eggplant Curry

A one-pot dish, full of nutrients and nourishment. Eggplant curry, whether cooked in a regular pot or traditionally in a claypot, is spicy, tangy, and aromatic. Tender small eggplants absorb the flavours beautifully, making the curry comforting and nutritious.

The spices used in this curry come with many health benefits. Chilli powder, for example, has been linked to supporting weight management. From ancient times, spices have been regarded as natural “food for health,” with most carrying unique benefits (CREAMED SPINACH CURRY). 

Top Urban Gardening Benefits

In the heart of bustling cities, urban gardening brings green spaces into everyday life. It exists in small apartments, rooftops, and residential areas surrounded by concrete, traffic, and noise. Also known as green living or an eco-friendly concept, urbanites grow plants, fruits, vegetables, and flowers in indoor gardens, balcony setups, container gardens, vertical gardens, and backyard patches. 

Soil, butterflies, and birds create pockets of nature under the blue sky, turning unused corners into lively green spots that add color and life to urban surroundings (HOW TO GROW SAWTOOTH CORIANDER). 

Burgers Around the World

A burger, a simple meat patty in a bun, has its roots in Western culture. While minced meat patties trace back to Hamburg, Germany, it was the United States that transformed the burger into a fast-food icon in the early 20th century. From diners to drive-throughs, the burger quickly became a symbol of convenience and modern eating, shaping how people viewed quick meals.

As global brands expanded, burgers travelled across borders and entered different food cultures. In many Asian countries, the idea of a burger felt new and exciting, especially among younger generations who were open to trying something Western and trendy. Soon enough, burgers became more than just a foreign food. They became part of everyday city life (WHAT TO EAT IN VIETNAM). 

Famous Temples in Thailand

Religion and spirituality are deeply embedded in Thai culture. Whether or not it is a religious day, Thais can often be seen in temples, praying and offering gratitude and homage to the gods. This devotion truly stands out in Thailand,  as their heritage and cultural identity (AYUTTHAYA TEMPLES, THAILAND). 

Even Bangkok’s main international airport, Suvarnabhumi, carries a touch of spirituality. The name Suvarnabhumi comes from Sanskrit, where “Suvarna” means gold and “Bhumi” means land, together meaning “Golden Land.” The name holds deep meaning for Thailand, reflecting its culture, tradition, and spiritual faith 

Vegetarian Tom Yum Soup Recipe

A delicious vegetarian Tom Yum soup is easy to make and brings the classic Thai taste to the tastebuds. The core is a fragrant Thai stock, made by slow-simmering ingredients. While common ingredients for such a stock include galangal, chili, and lime, this version stands out with its unique blend.

It carries extra layers of flavor from torch ginger, spring onions, and coriander leaves with the roots. To keep it kid-friendly, chili is optional and can be added on top as preferred. These classic Thai ingredients come together to give this vegetarian soup Thai style its signature, quintessential tastes. 

Getting on the E-Commerce Train as an Entrepreneur

E-commerce has changed how a lot of businesses operate, and for entrepreneurs aiming to break into it it offers a lot of opportunities and challenges. Starting an online store gives you not only lucrative returns, but also allows you to reach a global market at minimal overhead costs. But doing it right requires a deep understanding of its dynamics, planning and an unfailing drive towards innovation. 

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Sawtooth Coriander: Culantro or Ketumbar Jawa

Sawtooth coriander, or culantro, scientifically known as Eryngium foetidum, is a tropical herb that goes by many names around the world. In Malaysia, it is called Ketumbar Jawa, and in Indonesia, depending on the region, it may also be known as Ketumbar Lombok.

Why is it called Ketumbar Jawa? In Malay and Indonesian, the word ketumbar means coriander, while Jawa refers to Java, the Indonesian island. Locals began calling it Ketumbar Jawa, meaning “Javanese coriander,” because its aroma and taste resemble coriander and it was commonly found and used in the Java region (GROWING BUTTERFLY PEA FLOWER)

Chair Yoga

Chair Yoga is not a modern trend or a practice adopted simply because others are doing it. It was created to address the practical realities of today’s world, where health and wellness are widely discussed, yet maintaining good health has become increasingly challenging.

In the 21st century, supplements and mindful eating are often emphasized as keys to good health. Yet the reality tells a different story. It is no surprise that maintaining health can be a struggle, and nothing compares to yoga as a natural remedy and therapy. It is affordable, effective, and requires only a commitment to regular practice. (YOGA FOR STRESS RELIEF & INNER CALM). 

Homemade Lemonade

Imagine sipping a homemade lemonade that is lightly sweet, refreshing, nourishing, and instantly wakes up the taste buds. This unique drink works as a summer refreshment, for hot days, casual gatherings, or as a mocktail party drink. It combines classic lemon juice with common Southeast Asian ingredients (COCONUT MILK DESSERT RECIPE). 

The ingredients for this homemade drink are also available in other parts of the world, as Asian grocers are now common. For home gardeners, lemons and mint leaves are grown fresh at home, while basil seeds come from simply removing the seeds from basil leaves and drying them.

Langkawi, Kedah, Malaysia -Things to Do

Langkawi is home to a wide variety of sightseeing spots, from natural wonders and beaches to popular attractions. How much you can explore depends on the number of days you spend on the island and the travel time between each destination.

Some travelers prefer a back-to-back schedule, visiting multiple attractions each day, while others take a slower, free-and-easy approach, allowing time to relax and explore each location (BEST THINGS TO DO IN PENANG). 

Among the tourist spots in Langkawi, certain attractions stand out, you’ll see why once you visit.  Whether it’s a short trip or a longer stay, planning your Langkawi itinerary carefully will help you make the most of your visit and discover the top things to do in Langkawi.

Indonesian Desserts

Without a doubt, desserts in Southeast Asian countries share similarities. Common ingredients include pandan leaves, palm sugar, glutinous rice, coconut milk, and different types of flour. These ingredients often result in desserts that may seem similar but carry a local twist or have a different name (SRI LANKA STREET FOOD). 

Indonesian desserts are part of this tradition and are available across Southeast Asia and other parts of the world. Still, nothing compares to having desserts in Indonesia itself. Fresh local produce, authentic Indonesian cooking styles, and traditional preparation methods give desserts in Indonesia a distinctive character. When in Indonesia, trying these local Indonesian desserts is certainly worthwhile (SURAKARTA TOP THINGS TO DO). 

Coconut Milk Dessert - Bubur Cha-Cha

One of the well-known Malaysian sweet desserts is Bubur Cha-Cha. It is made with boiled or steamed sweet potatoes and yam cooked in coconut milk, flavored with pandan leaves. This simple dessert requires only a few ingredients that are common and affordable in Southeast Asian cooking (PUMPKIN BARLEY DESSERT). 

 

Bubur Cha-Cha originates from the Nyonya community, created by the Peranakan Chinese in Malaysia and Singapore. It is a part of Nyonya cuisine and has become popular as both a Chinese-style and Malay dessert. Today, it remains a staple in Malaysian dessert culture (DURIAN SWEET DESSERT). 

Best Street Food in Sri Lanka

Street food is everywhere in Sri Lanka, tempting locals and travelers alike. Made fresh from readily available, affordable ingredients, it’s often referred to as hawker food.

 

Typical ingredients include spices, coconut, and the famous Sri Lankan palm sugar (kithul treacle). Coconut appears in various forms - from grated coconut and coconut milk to coconut oil, fresh sap (kithul sap), and even pol kallu (fermented sap, also known as toddy).

 

Fresh local fish is another staple, especially in curries. Common varieties include tuna, mackerel (balaya), sardines, and seer fish (thora). A touch of tamarind (puli) adds subtle sourness. Together, these ingredients create the sweet, sour, spicy, and creamy flavors that define Sri Lankan street food.

Easy Vegetarian Lotus Root Soup

This vegetarian lotus root soup is easy to make, using ingredients that are affordable and easy to find at any grocery store. Lotus root, tofu, black fungus, and leek cook together in a light, healthy broth. The soup is high in fiber, easy to digest, and a good choice for anyone looking for a simple, plant-based, vegan, healthy soup (PUMPKIN SOUP). 

 

Unlike versions made with pork bones, this recipe is completely meatless. It can be served on its own as a light meal or with rice for a wholesome, filling dish. Family- and kid-friendly, it works well for any time of the day, including breakfast.

Langkawi Island: Ultimate Travel Guide - Kedah, Malaysia

Situated off the northwest coast of Peninsular Malaysia, Langkawi is an archipelago of 99 islands scattered across the Andaman Sea. Within the state of Kedah and close to the border of Thailand, its location is truly distinctive. On clear days, the nearest Thai island, Ko Tarutao, can be seen from Langkawi, a rare sight highlighting the island’s notable position. The main island, Pulau Langkawi, is the largest and most developed, while many smaller surrounding islands remain untouched.

Langkawi History

Langkawi and Mahsuri’s story are closely linked. Over 200 years ago, Mahsuri, a young woman wrongfully accused of an affair, was sentenced to death. Before she died, she placed a seven-generation curse on the island.