Copenhagen, Denmark

Nature, unrushed life, fresh air and sunshine, and fresh seafood - welcome to Denmark in summer. For some, the weather may feel tropical, while others might need a thick jacket or even gloves while sightseeing in Denmark.

For Asian travelers, particularly those from Southeast Asia, heading to Denmark can take around 15-18 hours. The journey may include transiting from other airports before arriving at Copenhagen Airport (CPH), also known as Kastrup Airport, the largest airport in Copenhagen, catering to international and domestic flights (ROME ITALY TOP SITES). 

Mee Goreng (Fried Mee)

Apart from rice meals, (NASI KERABU/HERBS RICE) noodle dishes are highly anticipated in Malaysia, and one of the favorites is Mee Goreng (fried mee). Though it comes in different styles, it’s still Mee Goreng at heart. The variations mostly depend on the meat, seafood, or poultry used.

The Malay-style Mee Goreng is one example, and when cooked with fresh prawns, it’s called Mee Goreng Udang (MALAY STYLE PRAWN NOODLES). Eggs can be added on top, served as a runny fried egg (Mata Kerbau), or mixed into the yellow noodles while frying.

What To Do In Pulau Ketam (Selangor, Malaysia)

What makes Pulau Ketam nostalgic? This small fishing island floats quietly on the Straits of Malacca, just off the coast of Port Klang in Selangor. It’s like stepping back in time, where life moves at its own unhurried pace, and much remains as it was decades ago. The houses on stilts, fishing as a livelihood, and small, unassuming local shops are still part of daily life (PULAU KETAM TRAVEL GUIDE).

 

Pulau Ketam remains an authentic Chinese fishing village, lined with old provision stores and coffee shops. One of the most delightful things here is how locals move around. On motorbikes or bicycles, passing the narrow cement lanes and wooden walkways. Life is simple here. Clothes are casual, faces are familiar, and the sense of community is strong - complete with a police station, school, and community hall.

Pada Salted Fish Pickle

Pada Salted Fish Pickle is a famous Eurasian dish unique to the Malaysian and Singaporean Eurasian community. While other fish pickles or meen achar exist worldwide, none match the aroma, tang, and sweetness of this salted fish pickle (PORTUGUESE VEGETABLE PICKLE).

Crispy fried salted fish and green chilies in a delicious spice paste make it irresistible.

 

For taste, adjust the amount of salted fish, green chilies, and spice paste to balance spiciness, tanginess, and saltiness. These are the essential cooking tips for Pada salted fish pickle.

Pulau Ketam/Crab Island - Selangor, Malaysia

Pulau Ketam, also known as Crab Island, is a small island near Port Klang in Selangor, Malaysia, where rivers meet the sea amid muddy shores and nearby islets. Entirely built on wooden stilts above mangrove swamps, Pulau Ketam is known for its traditional fishing village, seafood markets, and unique stilt houses, attracting both locals and international travelers looking for a quick escape from city life (FREMANTLE AUSTRALIA DAY TRIP). 

Weekends and public holidays can get very crowded, so visiting Pulau Ketam on weekdays, Monday to Thursday is recommended for a more relaxed experience.

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)

Fremantle, Australia

There is something quietly magical about the train ride from Perth to Fremantle. Perhaps it is the anticipation, or for travelers experiencing it for the first time, it becomes a meaningful part of heading to Fremantle itself. As the train passes through different suburbs, it is not merely a direction to Fremantle but also a meaningful journey for viewing Perth in a broad spectrum. From Perth city to the outer suburbs, each unveils different types of views, a candid shot of this part of Australia (AUSTRALIA CRUISE - MANDURAH).

Things to See in Perth
Perth Station
Modern skyline with skyscrapers, office buildings, and busy streets.
Glimpses of Elizabeth Quay and the Swan River.

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.