Pulau Ketam (Crab Island) Malaysia Travel Guide

Over the years, Pulau Ketam, or Crab Island, has gained attention. Pulau Ketam, a small island near Port Klang in Selangor, Malaysia, is surrounded by muddy shores and nearby islets where the river meets the sea. Entirely built on wooden stilts above mangrove swamps, it has gradually become a popular tourist destination in Malaysia.

Weekends, public holidays, school holidays, and the year-end break draw countless locals and foreign tourists to Pulau Ketam (FREMANTLE AUSTRALIA THINGS TO DO). For those with flexibility, the island is best visited during off-peak seasons and weekdays. It also serves as a getaway for urbanites, offering an escape from the daily rush and stress, an island to relax and walk around before returning to the usual routine of life.

Bread Flower/Kesidang Plant: An Enchanting Beauty for the Senses

Nature is truly captivating. It fills our lives with joy and peace. But nature also needs our help. As climate change makes the weather hotter and more unpredictable, we depend more on air conditioners, even for our babies. Yet, people miss the benefits of urban gardening. It can cool our homes and naturally relieve stress (Bay Leaves Healing Therapy). Urban gardening helps the environment and fills the air with the soothing scent of flowers, offering a peaceful escape from the stress that harms us.

Enter Ms. Nava, the founder of Nava's Zen, a true enthusiast of urban gardening. Today, she introduces us to the enchanting bread flower, also known as Kesidang, Kerak Nasi, Tikar Seladang, or Vallaris Glabra (Ylang Ylang). These white, star-shaped blossoms have a scent that evokes pandan leaves or the aroma of cooked fragrant jasmine rice. Whenever they bloom, Ms. Nava takes a moment to stand in Nava's Zen and inhale their delightful fragrance. It's her natural way to calm her senses and enjoy a bit of tranquility (Rangoon Creeper).

Buns & Noodles (Bukit Rimau): Niche Excellence

Saying goodbye to loyal clients who have been strong supporters of our brand, especially when they're leaving due to moving away, brings mixed feelings. It's important to show gratitude for their support, even though it's tough to see them go. In business, clients come and go, so it's crucial to stay focused on our passion rather than getting too emotional. As a gesture of appreciation, I recently organized a heartfelt farewell for departing clients, recognizing their contributions to our business. And what better way for us Malaysians to bond than over a meal together?

As a culinary enthusiast, I'm always on the lookout for new dining experiences. This time, I decided to try out Buns & Noodles in Bukit Rimau. Beforehand, I made sure to inform them of my visit, which is important in case they have any limitations or special arrangements, as I mentioned earlier (SAFAA)

Top Things To Do in Fremantle, Australia

The most convenient and reliable way to get to Fremantle is by train from Perth Station. The journey takes about 30 minutes, with trains running every 10-5 minutes during the day. From your seat on the train, you’ll enjoy elevated views, and with stops like Subiaco, Claremont, Cottesloe, and North Fremantle along the way, the time passes quickly (MANDURAH CRUISES, PERTH).

You can also take a bus or drive to Fremantle, depending on your preference. However, the train offers one of the most scenic routes, especially as you approach Fremantle and catch sight of the port and ocean in the distance. Once you arrive at Fremantle Station, the town is right at your feet. Fremantle is vibrant and energetic, especially on weekends, public holidays, and school breaks.

Steamed Fish: Thai Style

Bold, vibrant Thai flavors. Spicy, sour, and salty, all come together in tender steamed fish. This is the ultimate Thai dish. Steaming is one of the healthiest cooking methods, requiring little more than preparing fresh ingredients, including cleaning and gutting the fish.

 

Freshness is key. Choose a fish that has a subtle scent of the ocean or sea water. The eyes should be clear, and the gills bright red, indicating fresh blood and quality. Otherwise, making steamed fish is a waste of time and money (FISH CURRY WITH COCONUT MILK). 

Tempe Orek (Indonesian Spicy Fermented Soy Beans)

Tempeh, also spelled tempe, a traditional fermented soybean product from Java, Indonesia, is a nutrient superfood. Protein-rich, full of probiotics, and packed with nutrients, it is one of the healthiest plant-based foods. In Malaysia, it is mainly used for Malay food (RENDANG KAMBING/MUTTON RENDANG). Tempeh has also gained recognition worldwide, including in Western meals.

The plain, humble taste of tempeh is delicious on its own. A sprinkle of salt and a quick fry makes it crispy and appetizing, a healthy snack by itself. It can also be added to masak lemak (turmeric coconut milk stew), made as sambal tempeh, or included in other dishes.

What To Do in Perth, Australia - Mandurah Cruises

Heading from Perth to Mandurah for a boat cruise takes about 1 hour by car, depending on traffic, especially during weekends. The drive is straightforward, mostly along the highway, with free parking available near the Mandurah Foreshore and cruise departure points.

For those who prefer public transport, take the Mandurah Line from Perth Underground Station (located just below Perth Station). The journey takes around 50 minutes (WHAT TO DO IN PERTH). From Mandurah Station, it’s a short 5–10 minute ride by shuttle bus or taxi to the foreshore and cruise area.

Mutton Rendang

There is chicken rendang (RENDANG AYAM/CHICKEN RENDANG), beef rendang, and of course, mutton rendang, or rendang kambing. Is the recipe very different? Not really. You can change some ingredients for a twist, but the core ingredients are a must.

Mutton is generally tougher than lamb. Cooking it until tender can take time. If overcooked, it will shrink and lose its texture. A useful tip for mutton rendang and other mutton dishes is to pressure cook the mutton with ginger paste and garlic paste. This makes cooking easier while keeping the flavor.

Things to Do in Perth, Australia

Over the years, Perth has grown into a bustling, multicultural city. Its population has expanded significantly, driven by an increased number of international residents. It’s now common to see people from various backgrounds, including Asians who have made Perth their home and work across different industries. As an educational hub, the city also attracts students from around the world who enrol in its universities. In fact, some of your friends or relatives may already be living in Perth.

Whether you're here to visit them or as a tourist, it’s worth checking out the popular sights in Perth city. One thing to note, public transport is convenient, with free CAT bus services operating within the city centre. However, be prepared for traffic congestion (TOP THINGS TO DO IN HANOI, VIETNAM), especially during peak hours, as Perth can get busy with daily commuters.

Things to Do in Hanoi, Vietnam

Hanoi, the second-largest city in Vietnam, still shows strong French influence, especially in its architecture and food (HA LONG BAY CRUISE). Located in northern Vietnam, Hanoi is known for its chaotic traffic, motorbikes everywhere, loud honking, and drivers moving in all directions. Noise and pollution are part of the experience, but the city is worth visiting.

Whether you’re traveling across Vietnam or just exploring Hanoi, the top tourist attractions and street food stand out. The food scene is a treat for the palate, especially the affordable street eats. Street shopping is popular too, alongside international brand stores, a mix that makes Hanoi a must-visit on any Vietnam travel journey.

Ha Long Bay, Vietnam: Boat Cruise

A trip or tour of Vietnam (HO CHI MINH CITY THINGS TO DO) is not complete without a Ha Long Bay boat cruise. It’s one of the must-do activities in Vietnam, and truthfully, the main reason many people visit this region. There’s not much else to see or do in Ha Long Bay itself, but the cruise alone is more than worth it.

Ha Long Bay, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the New7 Wonders of Nature, attracts visitors from all over the world. Famous for its towering limestone formations and green waters, it’s one of Vietnam’s most well-known natural attractions. The bay is scattered with nearly 2,000 small islands and rocky outcrops that rise straight from the sea.

Nasi Kerabu - Malaysian Herbs Rice

An array of herbs, including crunchy green herbs and the butterfly pea flower, make Nasi Kerabu, or Malaysian herbs rice, a healthy and colorful dish. The types of herbs are not fixed. They depend on what is available and what is preferred. Therefore, no two plates of Malaysian herbs rice may be exactly the same.

These herbs are also staples in Southeast Asian cooking, with bunga telang/ butterfly pea flower (GROWING BUTTERFLY PEA FLOWER) giving the rice its vibrant blue hue.

Pineapple Cucumber Salad with Torch Ginger

A no-cook salad is one of the easiest dishes to put together. It’s a simple recipe, all you need to do is slice the ingredients. Better still, these ingredients are easily found at Asian grocers. In Malaysia, they’re everyday staples you can pick up at markets or even supermarkets.

Budget-friendly too, and if you have extra pineapple or cucumber after making this Malaysian salad, they make a  healthy snack (NASI ULAM/HERBED RICE). Even the peanuts? Buy them roasted, no need to roast at home.

Siem Reap, Cambodia: Wat Thmey (Killing Fields)

Cambodia is one of the most visited tourist destinations in Southeast Asia, and its crown jewel is undeniably Angkor Wat. Angkor Wat, the legendary, world-famous temple complex and a top highlight in Cambodia (ANGKOR WAT CAMBODIA). But beyond the awe-inspiring ruins, Cambodia holds a painful and unforgettable past, one you can discover at Wat Thmey, also known as the Killing Fields of Siem Reap.

 

Located along Sivatha Road, Wat Thmey may not appear on every traveler’s must-visit list, nor is it often promoted as one of the top tourist attractions in Cambodia. However, for those who wish to understand Cambodia’s tragic history, this site offers a sobering and meaningful experience (MOUNT MERAPI INDONESIA TOUR).

Malaysian Sodhi (Indian Coconut Milk Stew)

Simplicity shines in Sodhi, the Indian coconut milk stew. This much-loved dish also finds a cherished place in cuisines from other parts of the world, like Sri Lanka and especially Kerala. Making Sodhi is effortless: just add all the ingredients to a pot, simmer, season with lime juice and salt, and you're done.

 

You can create various types of Sodhi, and to make it a one-pot dish, adding vegetables is a great option. I often do this to keep the dish interesting and avoid monotony. Plus, it saves me the trouble of preparing a separate vegetable dish 

Pucuk Ubi Masak Lemak (Tapioca leaf In Coconut Gravy)

Pucuk Ubi Masak Lemak is a traditional and authentic Malay dish. Creamy, with a vibrant yellow hue (TURMERIC FISH PAN GRILLED), tender tapioca leaves, and the salty burst of belacan (shrimp paste) and dried shrimps make this tapioca leaf in coconut gravy absolutely delicious.

 

This Malay heritage recipe has been handed down through generations and remains a staple in a traditional Malay rice meal (RENDANG AYAM/CHICKEN RENDANG).

Angkor Wat, Siem Reap, Cambodia

Mention Cambodia and instantly one thing comes to mind,  Angkor Wat. Located in Siem Reap, Angkor Wat is Cambodia’s most iconic and world-renowned landmark. Built in the early 12th century by King Suryavarman II, it was originally a Hindu temple dedicated to Vishnu before gradually transforming into a Buddhist site. Angkor Wat holds the title of the largest religious monument in the world. In fact, it is Angkor Wat that has firmly placed Cambodia on the map as one of the top travel destinations and a must-see world tourist attraction (BOROBUDUR TEMPLE INDONESIA).

Rightly so, a "wonder of Southeast Asia," a "man-made wonder," and a "must-see ancient wonder." It is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site, drawing thousands of visitors throughout the year.

Ikan Balado

Balado is a spicy Indonesian chili sauce, or sambal, that’s both versatile and fiery, depending on how many red chilies you use. Originating from West Sumatra, it’s a key feature in Padang-style cooking and often served with mixed rice dishes across Indonesia (KERABU MANGGA/MANGO SALAD). 

Made by blending red chilies with shallots, garlic, and a touch of lime, balado can be used raw or sautéed until aromatic (TAMARIND FISH). 

It’s delicious on its own as a condiment or as a base for dishes like Ikan Balado (fish in chili sauce). You can prepare balado ahead of time and store it for adding to rice meals, vegetables, or other protein dishes whenever you need a spicy kick (FRIED FISH WITH ASAM SAUCE).

Kuih Sagu Kukus (Steamed Sago Cake)

Kuih Sagu Kukus is one of Malaysia’s beloved kuih-muih or sweet delicacies. Soft, sticky, and chewy, they are delicately rolled in fresh grated coconut. Steamed sago cake is indeed one of  Malaysian desserts, known as pencuci mulut (NO-BAKE EASY CHEESECAKE).

There is the cooking method of sago pearls and water stirred constantly over heat until the sago becomes translucent, coming together like a sticky dough. Care is also needed to prevent it from burning at the bottom of the wok.

 

Steaming, on the other hand, is the easier recipe for Kuih Sagu Kukus.

What to Do in Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam

Ho Chi Minh City in Vietnam is busy and always full of life. The traffic can be heavy, so visitors should be ready for that. Still, the city is a top destination for tourists from around the world.

It was once called Saigon during French colonial rule in the 19th century, and you can still see the influence in its colonial buildings and street layout. After Vietnam’s reunification in 1975, it was renamed to honor leader Ho Chi Minh.

 

Today, the city is developed and growing fast. While not everyone speaks English, most tour guides can speak it well and are trained to help tourists. Sightseeing is easy and enjoyable with a guide (BANGKOK THAILAND TRAVEL).

Kerabu Mangga - Vegetarian Mango Salad

Kerabu Mango or Mango Salad is a beloved and well-known Asian mango dish, especially popular in Thailand, Cambodia, Vietnam, Indonesia, and Malaysia. While the core ingredients are similar - green mango, chilies, herbs, and a tangy dressing, each country adds its own local touch. It's called Kerabu Mangga (VEGETARIAN OKRA SALAD/KERABU BENDI) in Malaysia, Som Tum Mamuang in Thailand, Gỏi Xoài in Vietnam, Nhoam Svay in Cambodia, and Rujak Mangga in Indonesia.

 

This raw mango salad is easy to prepare at home, including vegetarian versions of kerabu mangga or mango salad. The method is effortless: just slice, mix, and toss the ingredients together. Some versions include roasted white sesame seeds, but the crunch of affordable roasted or fried peanuts often steals the food show (VEGETARIAN HERBED RICE/NASI ULAM).

Mochakottai Karuvadu Kulumbu (Field Beans Salted Fish Curry)

Thick, spicy, tangy, and with a balanced saltiness, this Salted Fish Curry is truly delicious. This recipe features mochakottai (field beans) that are pre-simmered or boiled with turmeric powder. And what's a salted fish curry without skin-on pototoes? You can also use common and affordable ingredients like brinjals or okra (PINEAPPLE SALTED FISH CURRY).

For the salted fish, ikan kurau (threadfin) is considered the best choice, though other varieties work too. The salted fish bones add depth of flavor, but be careful, as some bones may soften and fall into the curry.

Rangoon Creeper: Cultivating Zen Blooming Bliss

(Updated Version)

Rangoon Creeper, or Combretum Indicum, is also known as Drunken Sailor, Akar Dani, Chinese Honeysuckle, and Red Jasmine. This charming plant originates from Southeast Asia, particularly Myanmar. Its name pays tribute to Rangoon, now known as Yangon. In Nava's Zen garden, it brings both beauty and fragrance (ROSELLE - BENEFITS & USES).

 

Fragrance and Blooms

Rangoon Creeper isn’t just about its appearance; its scent is truly captivating. The sweet, fruity aroma fills the air, creating a serene and relaxing ambiance. The flowers begin as delicate white buds and gradually transition into clusters of rich red blooms. Over time, the slender stems grow into strong, lush vines, perfect for adorning pergolas or trellises.

Siamese Laksa Lemak

A revelation of bold flavors that awaken your palate instantly - spicy, sour, sweet, and fragrant herbs lifting your senses. This is the heart of Thai food. From quick, simple dishes to recipes with long ingredient lists, Thai cooking always leaves a lasting impression.

 

Siamese Laksa, or Laksa Thai, is a fusion of Asam Laksa and Curry Laksa, developed over time through gathered knowledge. Using familiar ingredients from both noodle dishes, it becomes Siamese Laksa, enhanced with Thai herbs that are also common in Malaysian and Southeast Asian kitchens.

Mee Rebus (Vegetarian)

What makes or breaks a Mee Rebus dish? It’s the gravy, or kuah. Made with the right balance of spiciness, sweetness, aroma, and thickness, it becomes the best Mee Rebus. The gravy is the central star of this beloved Malay noodle dish, which is also part of Indian-Muslim food (MALAY STYLE MEE UDANG) and Malaysian street food.

Yellow sweet potatoes are an important ingredient, giving the gravy its rich texture and subtle sweetness, even for the vegetarian version.

Things to Do in Bangkok, Thailand

Whether you're a solo traveler in Bangkok, or visiting with family or friends, one of the best ways to discover Bangkok is by joining a guided tour. From half-day to full-day options, tours cover top Bangkok attractions and usually include hotel transfers and lunch (AYUTTHAYA THAILAND TOP THINGS TO DO).

Booking a tour saves time and avoids the hassle of negotiating with tuk-tuk drivers, helping you steer clear of unwanted issues such as language barriers or drivers insisting on tips. It’s a more convenient and structured approach to sightseeing in Bangkok.

Top Things to Do in Ayutthaya Thailand

When it comes to traveling in Thailand, Ayutthaya is a destination not to be missed. Once the capital of the Kingdom of Siam from 1351 to 1767, Ayutthaya was among the world’s largest and most cosmopolitan cities at its peak in the 17th century. Now recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the city was destroyed by the Burmese army in 1767. Despite its fall, Ayutthaya remains a lasting symbol of Thailand’s cultural and historical identity.

Whether you choose to stay overnight in Ayutthaya or prefer a day trip from Bangkok (BANGKOK TOP ATTRACTIONS), exploring the ancient city is convenient and accessible. Most hotels in Bangkok and local tour operators offer affordable packages to Ayutthaya, with transport included. These tours typically handle all the arrangements, including pick-up and drop-off at your accommodation. If you're heading out in the morning, be ready by 7:00 AM. The journey takes approximately 1.5 hours, depending on traffic. (KULLU MANALI INDIA SIGHTSEEING).

Pepper Soup: Instant Rasam

The healthy, nutritious and oilless Pepper Soup, also called Rasam. A nourishing tasty South Indian soup with the peppery taste and the natural sourness of tomatoes, along with the aroma of curry leaves. Rasam can be made in many ways, but the main ingredients are usually kitchen staples (MORINGA LEAVES STIR-FRIED).

 

For those who want a quick option, instant Rasam is available in pre-packed rasam powder at Indian grocery stores. Over time, you will discover which brand or mix suits your taste best.

 

Some people say nothing beats homemade Rasam. Made with freshly ground spices or a paste. But this quick Rasam recipe is for anyone short on time and still wanting one of the best pepper soups.

Bangkok, Thailand - Top Attractions to Visit

Bangkok, the vibrant capital of Thailand, is one of the country’s most visited destinations, drawing countless tourists from around the world. While the city’s traffic can be overwhelming, Bangkok remains the ideal entry point via Suvarnabhumi Airport, the main international hub for transiting to other parts of Thailand or abroad.

There’s plenty to experience. The best things to do in Bangkok often revolve around its legendary landmarks and classic tourist spots. No matter your travel style, the top attractions in Bangkok continue to draw visitors. These sightseeing spots are must-visits at least once, whether or not you plan to return again.