Docked near Vazhicherry Bridge on VCNB Road, Alappuzha, the houseboat stood out from afar - a quintessential Kerala "Kettuvallam," blending traditional charm (COLOMBO & NUWARA ELIYA) with modern comforts. Originally designed as cargo vessels with bamboo, coconut fiber, and palm leaf thatch, these houseboats now offer travelers a luxurious glimpse into Kerala's backwaters.
Friday, March 15, 2019
Kerala - Alleppey Houseboat Overnight Stay
Friday, February 8, 2019
Hokkaido - Japan: Winter Wanderlust
The greatest disappointment was the cancellation of our visit to the Okurayama Viewing Point, the 1972 Winter Olympic Games ski jumping venue. As someone who relishes visiting iconic spots, this news hit hard, like a sharp arrow piercing my heart. Also cancelled was the panoramic view of Sapporo city from the mountain peak and the visit to the serene Sapporo Shrine in Maruyama Park. No sightseeing at all. It felt like an explosion in my head, shattering my excitement.
Wednesday, February 6, 2019
Otaru: Nostalgic Winter
Totally crashed out from the previous day's whirlwind of activities and snow fun in Sapporo (SAPPORO WHAT AWAITS), I slept like a log until the alarm blared, signaling the start of another adventure-filled day (HOKKAIDO). Today, we were heading to Otaru, and despite my excitement, a wave of sentimentality hit me - only two days left before heading home.
It's a familiar feeling that always accompanies the end of my travels, a longing for more adventures instead of returning to the grind. But reality bites; I need to work and save before planning the next holiday. Given the choice, I'd travel 365 days a year. As I showered, I mentally calculated how long it would take to save for my next trip. Once dressed, I joined the group for the buffet breakfast.
Sunday, February 3, 2019
Sapporo - (Hokkaido): Discovering More of What Awaits
What an unexpected surprise! On the fourth day of our Hokkaido and Sapporo tour, the winter weather had finally mellowed. Oh boy, I was all grins as I could finally spend more time outdoors, unlike the previous day when we were constantly running for indoor shelter in Noboribetsu.
Breakfast at Hotel Maharoba (NOBORIBETSU WINTER TIME) was a revelation. While my tour buddies raved about the dinner, I found the buffet breakfast to be an absolute delight. Those Japanese-style dishes, especially the ones featuring tofu, seaweed, fresh seafood, and a variety of vegetables, were simply amazing. And when I saw congee and bacon- my all-time favorite - my excitement soared.
The varieties of egg dishes were equally impressive, cooked in the soft and fluffy Japanese style. And let's not forget the Japanese desserts, which were an absolute treat - soft, melt-in-your-mouth perfection that added a sweet start to my day.
Thursday, January 31, 2019
Noboribetsu - Hokkaido, Japan (Winter Time)
![](https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjjnoy2vGWlAHtb7rxJAhkeMsQya9ctcEgPYhc66SApklBNesmo1vYPRsaCQ6J54CEPSqX8zsZJqWWd4tXMq58xRgQsd-RxSWR52Io6Awr35-MniFyjENSsnEzUJe5Ml7u3E5JojNbpmYoTB3ULCgfnmzyDsZLVXQTQ4HAud9r2qU4CXMgFViPQ2c7moyM/w428-h640-rw/Winter%20Time%20In%20Noboribetsu.jpeg)
Monday, January 28, 2019
Hokkaido, Japan - Winter Tales
![](https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgo1_y_m-6zZijsaFwjfCyuqE8EvMY1jey-LYvFjzupmtisMkxSeh301lMQeixztbPBA6J9EdPeXZ1EYkWhR-W74Y0mjiYuE2cZsq8tJuNnlhHSU0yJnNZyLPY75EhhvXLowJ2moEmWOFf7UNNU1ChnX3-Oa93eEZsiXx8ovCUYQ1gFNxaSrz9FNztwFOo/w480-h640-rw/Snow%20Mobile%20Ride,%20Hilton%20Niseko%20Village%20Hokkaido.jpeg)
Friday, January 25, 2019
Hokkaido Japan: Winter Wanderings Begin
![](https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhyVDytn0m5MKp-vrypkwbzudfFyGnBI6Br4ob9naFl_hpKbtk1286xGECPU6v_RzzKIR2YrAQxNN7k6pFVNSaxraGCo-XHtigmu7dFa9j3S-xEgElqpx5D9yBJz1XMl5fQIBkzApsZ5goacAYDumPmscBMAa6MzWpWW7ef1tWq6ZXtu6yw804270-5_rI/w480-h640-rw/Hokkaido%20Winter%20Time.jpeg)
New Chitose Airport, located about 50 kilometers from the central hub of Sapporo, is a marvel. It's the largest gateway to Hokkaido, handling over 20 million passengers annually with seamless access to both domestic and international destinations. Stepping into this vast, immaculate space, I understood why it was the perfect entry point for our Hokkaido adventure.
Tuesday, January 15, 2019
Colombo - Sri Lanka: From Dreams to Discovery
![](https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgUT4OA41pfC8CqkqrSfDMo8PUTH9CT36m0Lpok5aoUPy8k-jap4I1Y56RMZOaEXG9ZUsgbZAt5IUkZBC33GG-RCRj3yYhddpOcFosok6oakOjXIQ3Mi5gRQ1EVT0nfHnCZecg_QhTe3vK62J3q2HF_11QqAZMZkrCK7nILg36eznxp_tPTj9asXpSJCjY/w428-h640-rw/Beach%20in%20Sri%20Lanka.jpeg)
Determined to make the most of my remaining time, we made several stops along the route from Galle to Colombo. We visited two different beaches, likely between Unawatuna Beach, Hikkaduwa Beach, Bentota Beach, Beruwala Beach, and Mount Lavinia Beach. Each beach had stunning, mesmerizing waters that left me in awe. The beauty of these beaches was truly mind-blowing.
Sunday, January 13, 2019
Galle - Sri Lanka: Exploring Famed Sightseeing Spots
Our day started at the Okrin Hotel in Kataragama with a breakfast that truly awakened my senses. The buffet offered two choices: Western or Sri Lankan. While my four companions went for the Western option, I opted for the Sri Lankan breakfast. Despite a brief 20-minute wait, the meal that awaited me was well worth it. The flavors of Rice Cakes, Coconut Sambol and Fish Curry were so captivating that even those who had chosen the Western breakfast couldn’t resist sneaking a bite from my plate. I felt deeply grateful for this mouthwatering experience as we prepared to leave Kataragama and head towards Galle (KATARAGAMA & KANDY).
Friday, January 11, 2019
Kataragama - Sri Lanka: Sacred Trails and Serene Adventures
![](https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhmtQUqoY_c-W3_F5IuTECTjMJbhAKTt58wIsdwpPFxPqWFX74JhWtQdSdvZmbej2z-aWVZBCkZwuU73O8veFqq0mMbcpcyD7QeaSN5Slp9Xfi2MsVaL0J4pjX2C15rmXuKTlMhoqhmWvJJ9HumEGB8Z594nSd5x9FSnd59ghgrcSoN1o7sFbRGVZtAe4k/w428-h640-rw/Kataragama%20Sri%20Lanka.jpeg)
Tuesday, January 8, 2019
Nuwara Eliya - Sri Lanka: Hillside One Day Retreat
![](https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjaGJrn2aXv_yHVHAz7JyXq61roCf7s-CcGEYqPx-t8rcLW80KA2q1owrylgovxoEjXmXu8TdigPkxWF2QAPKNZPGMhvNGxTHwiDHY8gNWI2fvDsQmsRQNa7fh-sA9wKDhLDRmM8NmxxABPnnziSSHVGumVsAc1Hm7vZfSFArr2IeGAvGz98awjirVQ3NY/w428-h640-rw/Botanical%20Garden%20Sri%20Lanka.jpeg)
Saturday, January 5, 2019
Kandy (Rambukkana/Mawanella/Kandy) - Sri Lanka
![](https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgIM6iKN2KQT-xY-xeJ8jp-Gg2Rql1FCIBlymwx4IrIkGXoly5wTUVTBOfkaaIBHkueC9wVZfPL0RnAlM-ma_cmejpP5quyWgXgDFwdo-FzZDcYtgEkgleNELEqF4zW1kpQp9e8Qoxv0n0GQLrtiWhrKyJBs-fJamZ7yeSGL87lOuOzbxJZXNCpwo0pwgU/w428-h640-rw/Pinnawala%20Elephant%20Orphanage.jpeg)
Wednesday, January 2, 2019
Negambo - Sri Lanka: A Serene Escape Amidst Traditional Fishing Life
![](https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg7fSOiUoEKcDScwQbwR6LEZitW2NxMKSZFRZE7JfmJmkmVt0Itf7BxlosOUwiMJZwTABy3RCHI2izY26O7zqsZEo_wEFsuH4L9v6ID495gc8C-QiY4mK6_E98ZJ8nHxBP0GqQW2hxGmjFBKKRUOZev46gnA9ldl6UTxkAU8oTIpCWh6jXgUSkaV6gIjwY/w420-h640-rw/St.%20Mary's%20Church,%20Negambo.jpeg)
Our first stop was lunch at St. Lachan Hotel, set in a beautiful garden. We were greeted with 'ayubowan,' a Sinhalese greeting similar to Namaste. As we nibbled on crispy snacks and got acquainted, we waited for our food. The 20-minute wait was worth it as we enjoyed an amazing meal, especially the fish curry with veggies and rice.
Tuesday, December 13, 2016
Golden Prawns: Oats-Coated & Cereal-Egg Toss
(Updated Version)
There are countless ways to cook a prawn dish, and of course, I’m one of those people who just has to experiment. Why? Because my love for Zen Cuisine is so deep, and well, I’m just that adventurous when it comes to food. Variety is the spice of life, right? Cooking, after all, is not just about food—it’s about keeping the mind and soul sharp. You know, keeping the gears turning so the ol' brain doesn't wither away and slip into the dangerous zone of mind contentment. Because we all know what happens then - boredom sets in, and suddenly, the devil's workshop is open for business. Gossip, backstabbing, and rumor-mongering, anyone?
So, next time someone’s talking behind your back, just remember - it’s not their fault. Their mind isn’t working properly. Misery loves company, and a poorly functioning mind just loves to drag others down.
But don’t worry - you can stay on the right side of things. Be part of Ms. Nava’s Zen Cuisine! Challenge yourself to try new recipes, mix and match ingredients, and get creative with what’s in your pantry. Got some oats and cereal? Perfect.
Thursday, October 27, 2016
Thai Red Curry: Prawn, Mutton & Egg Flavor Profiles
(Updated Version)
The vibrant, aromatic Thai Red Curry Paste is the heart of many delicious dishes. Once you've made this paste, you’re almost ready to whip up a flavorful Thai Red Prawn Curry. It’s a versatile paste, perfect for adding your choice of seafood, chicken, or pork. While I can't say for sure if it works with beef, I can definitely vouch for my Thai Red Mutton Curry. In fact, I’ve made it countless times, along with prawn and egg variations (THAI SPICY EGGPLANT).
Make a batch and store it in small containers in the freezer. This way, you can take out just what you need, avoiding thawing and refreezing a larger container. This helps maintain the paste's color and flavor, and it also prevents spoilage. Always use a dry spoon to scoop the paste out - since it’s preservative-free and all-natural, it’s sensitive to contamination.
![](https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiTJv3B1zcpqfoh2zcHbjmUJBCcZhyphenhyphenpVlFJJTtFCQivvVhjQBJTm-9cMekhMTZHfbJl3v5aOgrRjMj6lzqQo_ijb6UqhZJVlgPHDKrAteLiW1GFPT556N59Zv-IWDULYReTqGaXsnJ0Y7xRy5ZVcjCOQLBQmxU0TS0GaQRNXl6bSqw0YQYTQCGf4SjYAtQ/w360-h640-rw/Thai%20Red%20Curry%20Paste.jpg)
I don’t add herbs like coriander leaves, basil, kaffir lime leaves, or spring onions directly into the paste. I prefer to vary these herbs when cooking the actual curry dishes, which gives me flexibility in the scent and flavor.
From this Thai Red Curry Paste, I’ve made:
Thai Red Prawn Curry
Egg Anchovy Thai Red Curry
Below are two more recipes, but feel free to experiment and create your own version.
![](https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh70LucPgLovTXTZ5AyZvw1_iHqa2sk6iKqSDfIwfIVGsR1F6MW8maPsMJl_c-6esKtmLSUK0GtfajQgMu8xHn_EvZm4ZFvngoWR9OlRp0cijQd-KLqeT0ujJxAZsDBFDdBc_DEj4WUDJ9f29uj3OfPbeh92vEibUDJra55H9EbelsgFJPNzmV0fX1p7bc/w474-h640-rw/Thai%20Prawn%20Curry.jpeg)
Ingredients
For the Red Curry Paste
3 dried red chilies
3 fresh red chilies
5 garlic cloves
½ inch ginger
1 medium red onion
½ inch roasted shrimp paste (belacan)
1 large stalk of lemongrass
Blend these ingredients with a bit of water to form a thick paste.
Method
Heat the oil in a pan over medium heat.
Add the curry paste and sauté until fragrant and
the oil separates.
Stir in the chopped tomatoes and cook until
softened.
Add water and simmer until the sauce thickens.
Stir in the coconut milk and kaffir lime leaves.
Cook for a few more minutes, stirring occasionally, then remove from heat.
![](https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEihW23IncjPE9ObRusQylTx8mBLMc5u1fVJk9yJJWgCTipIZFOWaLD5Lq-EZGLAG4i7gebQMzcpDUF6Q9FTAGH6jV5E8myv92CY7-c6kS3nameKb8dsYVue0TgNdduiQXsrNKccz-7_-kvpwdQbWQiJKCPu8jWHAvJ3wbsUXiPVogCnHvcj1SaenHIaENw/w434-h640-rw/Thai%20Red%20Mutton%20Curry.jpg)
Ingredients
For the Red Curry Paste
Dried red chilies (adjust to taste)
1 tomato
2 stalks of lemongrass
1 inch galangal
1 inch ginger
6 garlic cloves
Blend these ingredients with water to make a smooth paste.
For the Mutton
½ kg mutton, cut into bite-sized pieces
Water, as needed
Place the mutton and enough water into a pressure cooker.
Cook until the mutton is tender.
Other Ingredients
½ cup thick coconut milk
Fresh coriander leaves
Basil leaves
Spring onion
Salt, to taste
Method
Cool down the cooker under running water or once the pressure is released, open the cooker and
stir in the red curry paste.
Season with salt and simmer for a few minutes.
Remove from heat, and stir in coriander leaves, basil leaves, and spring onions.
Cover and let the curry sit for an hour to allow the flavors to soak into the mutton before serving.
Sunday, August 28, 2016
Bread Pizza: Fusion Tuna Spicy Version
I've never made pizza dough in my life, and frankly, I don't see the need to learn. We're not big pizza fans at home - it’s more of an occasional treat that we usually grab from a pizzeria for convenience. With so many varieties and toppings available, it's easier to buy than to make from scratch. But with some bread slices nearing their expiration, I decided to whip up these bread pizzas instead. My zen garden is overflowing with daun kaduk, also known as Thai betel leaves, which are a nutritional powerhouse in cooking.
These leaves are packed with antioxidants, anti-inflammatory benefits, and support digestive health, making them a great addition to any dish. Thai betel leaves are easy to grow - maybe it’s time you considered adding them to your garden?
Chinese Rice Congee: Best Accompaniments and Tips
(Updated Version) Let me tell you about rice congee, also known as rice porridge or in our local Bahasa Malaysia, Bubur Nasi. In Tamil, it’...
![](https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiMttI7ffBUZxOTXIwkdqxQjgRp9zWTS1X-_UW1x31dBhZUnmqj5TMMtnEzCZNPSnDVXnK_KBWr6WuSyWqdyI25UtLpuR6GfoRgf1X-rWUY7DIH1clt_f2a3k7oDrEV6fRafPbmfiy7Nyxc-oF0EhV0nimb0nBFCibKEglxjaJoOR_S1Dk9RLRipJsnuM0/w440-h640/Chinese%20Rice%20Congee%20And%20Condiments.jpg)
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Let's talk Sodhi - a flavorful Indian coconut stew that's a hit in many households ( RASAM ), including ours! It's like a cousin...
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Growing up in the government quarters of Sungei Besi , just across from the army camp, I've always felt a deep connection to Malay c...
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As I peer into the earthen pot , brimming with the flavorful Mochakottai Karuvadu Kulumbu, my appetite awakens. I must admit, I have a so...