Turkey's Must-See Sightseeing Spots

Having explored Istanbul's rich of history and culture (ISTANBUL TIMELESS TRAVELS), which was not only fulfilling but also breathtaking during this early winter (DENMARK-NORWAY REFLECTIONS), my journey through Turkey continued to other places for more famous sightseeing spots. From ancient marvels to picturesque landscapes (COMO, LUGANO & MILAN), each stop offered a new perspective and unforgettable experiences. Join me as I share the highlights of my travels beyond Istanbul.

Çanakkale - Troy

Troy, one of the world's most renowned archaeological sites, boasts a history spanning 4,000 years and was unearthed in the 19th century. Listed as a UNESCO World Heritage site, ancient Troy is famed for its association with the legendary Trojan War. This pivotal Greek mythological tale, centered around Trojan prince Paris and his abduction of Helen, sparked a decade-long conflict.

Crispy Bitter Gourd Chips & Sri Lankan Karavila Salad Recipes

(Updated Version)

Growing bitter gourd aligns beautifully with Nava’s Zen philosophy. The glossy, dark green fruits are stunning but don’t last long, prompting a cycle of growth. After initial setbacks, I’m ready to cultivate them again.

Cultivating bitter gourd is straightforward - you can either dry the seeds or use them directly from your cooking. To my delight, seeds from my kitchen have sprouted new plants.

Suji Cookies: Sugee/Semolina Melt-In-Your-Mouth Bites

(Updated Version)

How can Deepavali be complete without Suji Cookies? For me, they're a beloved tradition. Growing up, baking Suji Cookies was a family event. We used an old round silver oven with a glass window to check on the cookies, but the round meter rarely worked - talk about old-school. Unlike today's high-tech ovens, that round one was all we could afford, and it did the job for our Deepavali baking. While Mom made the dough, the rest of us rolled, pinched, and added cherries before she popped the cookies in the oven. And yes, the raw dough was just too tempting (EGGLESS CAYENNE CHOCOLATE COOKIES).

Sambal Belacan: Fiery Guide to Malaysian & Indonesian

(Updated Version)

It's sambal belacan. Wowww! Who's a fan of sambal belacan? If you are, we’re in the same sambal belacan tribe. My love for sambal belacan began in my teens, and it's curious how I’m the only one in my family who drools over it - neither my late dad, my late mum, nor my two brothers share this passion. It’s a bit of a mystery.

 

Let’s start with belacan. Belacan is a fermented shrimp paste, widely used in Southeast Asian cuisine, particularly in Malaysia, Indonesia (YOGYAKARTA INDONESIAN TASTES), and Singapore. It’s made by fermenting tiny shrimp, often krill, which are salted and left to ferment for several weeks. After fermentation, the shrimp are sun-dried and ground into a paste, which is then formed into blocks or cakes and left to mature, developing a strong, pungent aroma. Belacan adds depth and umami to dishes and is often used in sambal belacan, curries, or stir-fries. It’s typically toasted before use to enhance its flavor (ASAM PEDAS IKAN BAWAL).

Misdiagnosis of Depression in Menopause: Yoga for Relief

Author

Ms. Krishnan N, a Zen entrepreneur in her 60s, founded Nava's Zen at 58. With 22 years as a lecturer, including 13 years in the Curtin University of Technology Perth, Australia Degree Twinning Program, she is now a certified yoga instructor, coach, and counselor. Her expertise enriches her current work.

Abstract
This article examines the misdiagnosis of depression during menopause and the potential benefits of yoga as a complementary treatment. It highlights the limitations of conventional approaches that often oversimplify menopausal symptoms by labeling them as depression. Through the author's personal experiences, it is demonstrated how yoga can offer significant relief and mental clarity beyond what is typically achieved with standard medical treatments. 

The discussion emphasizes the importance of integrating yoga into mental health care, not only as a supplementary remedy but as a vital tool for enhancing overall well-being. The findings suggest that a more nuanced understanding of menopause-related mental health issues and the inclusion of yoga in treatment plans can lead to improved outcomes and greater self-reliance.

Easy Mango Sticky Rice (Khao Niew Mamuang) Recipe

(Updated Version)

Khao Niew Mamuang, or Thai mango sticky rice, is a dessert loved across the globe (TAM TIM KROB: THAI RED RUBIES). "Khao Niew" means sticky or glutinous rice, and "Mamuang" means mango. I’ve had plenty of Thai Mango Sticky Rice, but trust me, not all are worth raving about. Even in Thailand (CHIANG MAI & CHIANG RAI), some were just average, and the worst were those sold in the evening but made in the morning. But when it’s good, it’s really good - like the street food version I had in Pattaya. I tried a few varieties, including Sticky Rice with Dried Shrimp Sugar, Sticky Rice with Custard, and of course, the traditional Sticky Rice with Mango. I couldn't resist packing back to my hotel, stashing them in the fridge, and enjoying them bit by bit.

Nyonya Pineapple Tarts: Handcrafted, Buttery, and Crispy

(Updated Version)

This Indian lady is definitely a bit different. While most Indian women and men make pineapple tarts for Deepavali, I chose to bake them for Chinese New Year. Strange, right? It was just me using my semester break to make Nyonya Pineapple Tarts. I wanted to practice my baking skills (EASIEST BANANA CHOCOLATE CAKE) - after all, practice makes perfect. But I’m not looking to turn this into a business; it’s just a fun hobby for me (INDULGENT CHEESECAKE SWEET DELIGHTS).

Istanbul, Turkey: Discovering Through Timeless Travels

Turkey, the crossroads of Europe and Asia, boasts a rich history influenced by both continents. This unique blend of European and Asian (CHANDIGARH, NORTH INDIA URBAN MARVELS) traditions creates a vibrant and diverse culture. As a popular tourist destination, Turkey attracts visitors year-round. I recently spent 8 days exploring this fascinating country, starting in Istanbul and traveling through Canakkale, Kusadasi, Pamukkale, Cappadocia, Ankara, and Bolu. The long coach journeys, depending on the distance (SURAKARTA INDONESIA HEARTBEAT), sometimes took almost a full day, with stops at attractions and breaks for meals and comfort. Curious about the places (PRETORIA SOUTH AFRICA MOMENTS) I visited in Turkey? Come, follow me on my journey through this country.

Pork Belly With Salted Fish: Steamed and Stir-Fried

(Updated Version)

Shhh, let’s keep this between us! Ms. Nava’s got a soft spot for pork—don’t let the holy rollers know! The ultra-religious crowd might bring out their Hinduism rulebook and wag their fingers at me. Yes, Hinduism emphasizes vegetarianism and non-violence, but nowhere in the sacred texts does it say pork is off-limits (MALAYSIAN WILDBOAR CURRY). Ah, Hindus - whether you’re all about pork, mutton, or are a part-time vegetarian (you know, on those countless Hindu holy days), there’s no express ticket to heaven based on what’s on your plate. So, let’s leave the judgment at the door, shall we? Zen Cuisine and Zen Wellness certainly don’t discriminate based on diet (EXQUISITE CHINESE PRAWN RECIPES).

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).

Sexual and Mental Affairs of Urbanites: Yoga for Body and Mind

Author

Ms. Krishnan N, a Zen entrepreneur in her 60s, founded Nava's Zen at 58. With 22 years as a lecturer, including 13 years in the Curtin University of Technology Perth, Australia Degree Twinning Program, she is now a certified yoga instructor, coach, and counselor. Her expertise enriches her current work.

Abstract
In the fast-paced urban environment, the pursuit of pleasure and emotional fulfillment has led to an increased prevalence of sexual and mental affairs. This article explores how the demands and dynamics of modern urban life have shifted desires and behaviors, leading individuals to seek connections outside traditional relationships. The article distinguishes between sexual and mental affairs, highlighting how each serves different needs and reflects the complexities of contemporary relationships. It also addresses how these affairs are influenced by factors such as emotional loneliness, libido crises, lust over love, wear and tear of relationship, also, trills of affairs, the quest for personal fulfillment.

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’s called Arisi Kanji, and in Mandarin, it's zhou1. Essentially, it's rice cooked with way more water than usual, giving you a light, soupy version of rice. It’s also known as “poor people’s food” - the ultimate hack for stretching out your rice supply. And guess what? I’m still reppin’ that category - the "poor woman club." I grew up in a poor family, and my mum? Oh, she was the queen of stretching out that rice. Pair it with some wild spinach we’d pluck from outside our government house, cook it up with a little garlic and ikan bilis (anchovies), and boom. Soup’s on.

It’s a meal I still cherish to this day - congee and spinach anchovy soup (or soup bayam ikan bilis, for those in the know). Even today, it’s still seen as humble food. You won’t catch a "successful" Indian family serving it up because, let’s be real, it’s seen as an embarrassment. Congee and soup are considered beneath them, something only for those still on the struggle bus.

Chrysanthemum Goji Berry Jelly & More Zen Jellies

(Updated Version)

I have a wealth of stories, and one I'm excited to share involves my journey with jellies. When I first launched Nava K, now known as Nava’s Zen, 14 years ago, I started making desserts, and jellies made with agar-agar were among the simplest to create. I'll be sharing these recipes, but the standout is undoubtedly Chrysanthemum Goji Berry Jelly. Although it's a traditional Chinese jelly, I was surprised to find that even many Chinese people were unfamiliar with this style. It left me quite speechless!

Goji berries are a staple in my kitchen, often used in Chinese soups and noodle dishes (CHINESE VEGETABLE NOODLE SOUP). I also regularly make chrysanthemum tea. With these ingredients always on hand, what more can I add?

The Komunal Bukit Rimau: A MIxed Review

I can't provide a detailed history or pinpoint when The Komunal Bukit Rimau first made its mark among the eateries in Bukit Rimau and Kota Kemuning, given the subtle boundary between these two areas (CHAMELEON KOTA KEMUNING & BUNS & NOODLES BUKIT RIMAU). My discovery was serendipitous, as The Komunal Bukit Rimau surfaced during an online search among a plethora of dining options. Positioned at a corner lot in a commercial building with residential condos above, the four of us arrived around 9:30 a.m.

The establishment exudes a cozy atmosphere, enhanced by sunlight streaming through the surrounding glass walls, creating a comfortable and inviting space. After perusing a menu that boasts an impressive variety, we made our selections. Notably, desserts require a visit to the counter to choose from an enticing display.

Indian Crab Rasam: Zen-Approved Healthy Nandu Soup

(Updated Version)

Rasam, a Zen nutritious Indian spiced soup, is already a powerhouse on its own (RASAM VARIATIONS UNIQUE TWISTS). Now, imagine adding crab claws (often called crab legs) to it – transforming it into what’s known as Indian Crab Soup or Nandu Rasam. This dish becomes an explosion of Zen flavors and nourishment for the mouth, throat, and stomach, embodying mindful eating without sacrificing taste.

Despite its health benefits, Nandu Rasam is surprisingly absent from buffet tables, social gatherings, and functions among Indians. While crab dishes often make appearances at family events, this flavorful soup is usually overlooked. Instead, spicy mutton, spicy chicken, sambar, and kurma dominate the scene - even though they’re not necessarily more cost-effective.

Miris Malu: Claypot Sri Lankan Mango Fish Curry

(Updated Version)

Miris malu is a cherished Sri Lankan dish (SRI LANKAN CARROT SAMBOLA), celebrated for its bold flavors and spicy essence. The name "miris malu" translates to "spicy fish" in Sinhalese, and this curry lives up to its name with fresh fish simmered in a rich, aromatic gravy. In Ms. Nava’s traditional version, a touch of green mango adds a unique twist. As a Malaysian Indian, this familiar ingredient introduces a natural tang that beautifully complements the thick, spicy curry, resulting in a dish with tender fish pieces immersed in a flavorful sauce. Although I had the pleasure of tasting some of Sri Lanka’s finest fish curries during my visit (KATARAGAMA SACRED TRIALS), I did not encounter one with mango. I wonder why that is (COLOMBO DISCOVERY).