Kari Kambing Malaysia (Malaysian Mutton Curry)

(Updated Version)

Curious about why Ms. Nava’s mutton curry is dubbed Kari Kambing Malaysia? It’s not just any mutton curry; it’s a beloved staple that resonates with Malaysians from all walks of life. Crafted with vibrant spices, this curry is perfectly spicy - just the way Malaysians love it. Can you almost taste it? I bet you’re nodding in agreement or perhaps even salivating (THAI RED MUTTON CURRY).

But wait, there’s more! I have a vast collection of mutton recipes, and despite sharing quite a number already, there's still more to explore - each with its own unique twist. From classic to innovative, you'll find variations to suit every palate. In fact, I’m sharing more than one recipe here, guiding you on how to tweak mutton curries into fresh, exciting dishes (MUTTON DIVERSE RECIPES).

Pretoria Moments & Insights into South Africa

As I prepared to leave South Africa (Johannesburg Wildlife & Cape Town Nature Stealer) and head back home, emotions were running high. Each moment spent here has been truly fulfilling for my soul. Today, we started with a city tour of Pretoria, the administrative capital nestled in the northern part of Gauteng Province. Founded in 1855 by Marthinus Pretorius and named after his father, Andries Pretorius, a prominent Boer leader, Pretoria has been central to South Africa's history (Hokkaido Wanderlust & Kochi Kaleidoscope).

It served as the capital of the South African Republic (ZAR) and later became one of the capitals of the Union of South Africa in 1910. The city has witnessed pivotal events, including the signing of the Peace of Vereeniging in 1902, ending the Second Boer War, and the establishment of the Union Buildings in 1913, symbolizing the country's political evolution (Colombo Discovery & New Delhi Revelation).

Johannesburg: Wildlife Safari & Exotic Game Meat

The day began with excitement (JOHANNESBURG WILDLIFE ENCOUNTERS & CAPE TOWN THE TRAVEL STEALER) as we headed to Sun City, where the plan was to spend our time at leisure, exploring as we wished. The main highlight was the Open Jeep Safari to Pilanesberg National Park, but the day promised plenty of other adventures in Sun City itself.

Nestled in South Africa's North West Province, about two hours' drive from Johannesburg, Sun City is a premier holiday destination known for its luxurious resorts and vibrant entertainment options. Often referred to as Africa's Kingdom of Pleasure, this sprawling complex offers attractions (JAIPUR TRAVEL MAGIC & CHENNAI AWAIT) like the renowned Valley of Waves water park, world-class golf courses, and a bustling casino.

Johannesburg - Soul-Stirring Wildlife Encounters

From Cape Town (CAPE TOWN: THE MAGICAL MOMENTS) airport, it was a two-hour flight to O.R. Tambo International Airport in Johannesburg. Jo'burg, as it's affectionately known, is the largest city in South Africa and a vibrant economic powerhouse. This city is a dynamic blend of modern urban life and deep-rooted heritage (SOUTH KOREA THROUGH MY EYES & JEJU THROUGH MY LENS) Johannesburg played a pivotal role in South Africa's fight against apartheid, with landmarks like the Apartheid Museum and Constitution Hill serving as powerful reminders of the nation's journey toward equality.

After landing, we traveled for about 45 minutes to The Lion & Safari Park. Situated in the Cradle of Humankind area of Gauteng, this region is renowned for its archaeological and paleontological significance. Recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage site, it's one of the world's most important centers of human evolution, with numerous ancient hominid fossils discovered in its limestone caves. Nestled amidst rolling grasslands and picturesque bushveld, the park offers a stunning backdrop for its wildlife. 

Top Places to Visit in Cape Town, South Africa

Cape Town, one of the most visited cities in South Africa, is packed with attractions (THINGS TO DO IN CAPE TOWN). From scenic landscapes and wildlife to good food and coastal drives, there’s so much to see and do. You could easily spend a week exploring Cape Town. While the list of tourist spots is long, a few stand out as must-visit highlights, both for sightseeing and experiencing the essence of the city.

Table Mountain

Table Mountain is the main highlight of Cape Town, a must-see for every visitor. But take note: your visit depends on the weather. On rainy or misty days, the cable car doesn’t operate. Once the weather clears, you can buy your ticket, queue up, and take the cable car ride. It lifts you 1,086 meters above sea level, with stunning views of the sea and the city below (SRI LANKA SIGHTSEEING SPOTS).

Things To Do in Cape Town, South Africa

Nature lovers, brace yourself. Cape Town will sweep you off your feet with its unspoiled landscapes. Whether it’s cycling in nature, hiking, a gentle walk, or just a drive along mountain slopes that open up to sea views and green hills, Cape Town has it all (CAPE TOWN TRAVEL GUIDE). You can easily spend a full day soaking in the natural beauty without rushing. Still, there are a few must-visit attractions in Cape Town you shouldn't miss.

Mouille Point to Muizenberg

A drive from Mouille Point to Muizenberg feels like an adventure on its own. The road winds through mountain slopes, with high-up views of the sea and even glimpses of the harbour. It’s the kind of drive where your eyes do all the work, looking around and appreciating what’s there (COLOMBO SRI LANKA SIGHTSEEING).

Cape Town, South Africa Travel Guide

Located at the southern tip of Africa, South Africa is known for its natural beauty, diverse cultures, colonial history, and the end of apartheid in 1994. Over the years, it has become one of the top tourist destinations in the world (HOKKAIDO, JAPAN SIGHTSEEING). When people think of South Africa, they often imagine wildlife, scenic landscapes, cultural diversity, and local cuisine. Among all the places to explore, Cape Town stands out as one of the country’s most visited and vibrant cities.

Signal Hill

One of the must-visit Cape Town attractions, Signal Hill offers sweeping views of the city, the harbour, and the Atlantic Ocean. Located beside Lion’s Head, it’s a popular spot for watching sunsets, taking photos, or simply relaxing in nature. The historic noon gun still fires daily, a tradition from the colonial era used to signal ships in Table Bay. From here, you’ll also see the Sea Point suburb, Green Point Stadium, and the city skyline. Visitors often drive or hike up for the best views, especially in the late afternoon (MYANMAR -ACROSS CHIANG RAI).

Seoul, Korea: A Journey Through My Eyes

On the second last day in Korea, which was spent in Seoul (GANDWON-DO & JEJU THROUGH MY LENS) e skipped the usual hotel buffet breakfast and were taken to an eatery instead. Remember, I told you how it's difficult to figure out the names of eateries in Korea, as the signboards are all in Korean? By the time we walked in, it seemed it was almost the end of breakfast. The tables were a mess, created by previous tour groups who had already eaten and left. It felt like we were helping ourselves to the remnants of the dishes, and the staff seemed uninterested in serving us. Nevertheless, we helped ourselves to pumpkin porridge and spinach porridge, along with Kimchi soup and side dishes. Despite the initial chaos, it was a pleasant meal.

Gangwon-do, South Korea: From Mount Sorak to Pyeongchang

Mount Sorak, or Seoraksan, located in the northeastern part of South Korea, marked the start of our adventure-filled day (NAMI ISLAND & JEJU THROUGH MY LENS). This majestic mountain, part of the Taebaek range within Seoraksan National Park, spans the provinces of Gangwon-do, including Sokcho, Inje, and Yangyang. Renowned for its rugged peaks, dense forests, and stunning waterfalls, the park offered us a serene and picturesque setting.

Our group, moving like one happy family, enjoyed fun moments as we walked through the park, passing by towering red pine trees. Our first stop was the Bronze Jwabul Statue, also known as the Tongil Daebul, erected in 1997. Standing 14.6 meters tall, this statue symbolizes the hope for the reunification of North and South Korea and represents the moment of the Buddha's enlightenment. Nearby, we visited Sinheungsa Temple, one of Korea's oldest Zen Buddhist temples, dating back to the 7th century. Joining in the prayers for a few minutes, I felt a profound sense of calm and zen spirituality (KYOTO ZENFUL SIGHTS & VARANASI SACRED GANGES).

Nami Island & Petite France: A Korean-French Experience

Leaving Jeju Island behind (JEJU THROUGH MY LENS), we were off to Nami Island, located 63km northeast of Seoul. After breakfast and packing our bags, we headed to the airport and arrived in Seoul just in time for lunch. Seeing Korean steamboat yet again almost did me in - was it always steamboat or hotplate on these tours? I wondered. Fortunately, Korean side dishes and rice saved the day with their flavors.

Within the hour, we journeyed to Nami Island. This scenic oasis in the heart of South Korea's Bukhan River is celebrated for its natural beauty and cultural charm. Shaped like a half-moon after the construction of the Cheongpyeong Dam, Nami Island captivates visitors with its tree-lined pathways, lush landscapes, and serene lakeside views.

Jeju Island Through My Lens

Our day began with a different kind of start, skipping the usual hotel buffet breakfast for a meal across the harbor in a small restaurant. Ah! The challenge of figuring out the names of eateries in South Korea when everything is in Korean (SEOUL TO JEJU), including this one. Breakfast commenced with toast, butter, jam, and a soft-boiled egg, with the highlight being the abalone porridge. Or at least, it was supposed to be. Noticing the absence of abalone in the porridge and informing the guide, he got worked up as if I was pulling his leg, until the rest echoed. Soon enough, we were served additional bowls of porridge, this time with discernible pieces of abalone. The porridge paired with the soft-boiled egg was an appreciated start to the rainy day.

From Seoul to Jeju: A Solo Traveler's Korean Venture

A complete package tour to South Korea, yet another solo adventure for me, this time with 14 strangers. Without a local Malaysian guide, the tour company representative met me at the airport for a quick check-in and briefing before we took to the skies (OSAKA SUNSETS & KYOTO ONSEN BARENESS) , arriving at Incheon International Airport by 9:00am. Our Korean guide was already there, and I was the first to greet him. Mysteriously, the remaining 13 took an additional 45 minutes.

Our journey commenced at Gyeongbokgung Palace, a magnificent symbol of Korean history and culture located in northern Seoul. Built in 1395 during the Joseon Dynasty, this grand palace, whose name translates to "Palace Greatly Blessed by Heaven," showcases Korea's rich architectural heritage and royal lifestyle. The sprawling grounds are adorned with meticulously restored halls, pavilions, and gardens. Highlights include the imposing Geunjeongjeon Hall, used for royal ceremonies, and the National Palace Museum of Korea, displaying artifacts that narrate the country's royal history (NEW DELHI REVELATION & RAJASTHAN MAGIC).

New Delhi - North India: A Soulful Revelation

On the last two days in New Delhi (TAJ MAHAL & VARANASI) before returning home, I enjoyed a relaxed morning on the second-to-last day. After breakfast, I stayed in my room, sipping coffee and having a light meal from the buffet. While the rest of the group went shopping, I took advantage of the hotel's fast Wi-Fi to catch up on social media (COLOMBO DISCOVERY & HOKKAIDO WANDERLUST).

For lunch, we headed to "Flavour Of Southvala" in Karol Bagh. Despite the cramped seating, the food was exceptional. We shared a Paper Tosai, a Non-Vegetarian Thali Set, and India's beloved Bru Coffee. The curries were rich and flavorful, thanks to the spices used, and the presentation was appetizing - unlike some eateries that overlook the importance of plating. This meal was a clear winner, making up for the less enjoyable dining experiences elsewhere (CHENNAI & KODAIKANAL).

Taj Mahal Agra - (North India)

The journey from Jaipur (JAIPUR LOVE CITY & VARANASI SACRED GANGES) to our destination was about five and a half hours, and I was glad to have the company of some lively ladies on this tour. With jokes and laughter filling the bus, time flew by until our first comfort break. These breaks can happen anywhere, often at roadside shops where a bathroom stop is a must. Here’s the thing: you have to brace yourself. Sometimes there's water, sometimes not, so always carry tissues. Out in the outskirts, you can't afford to fuss; no one’s going to hear you anyway.

For men in India, bathroom breaks are even more informal. They relieve themselves wherever they please, and it's a sight that's hard to miss. I'd seen enough in North India to know it wasn't just a South Indian phenomenon (MYSURU & CHENNAI) . At some sightseeing spots, the smell is impossible to avoid as you walk in.

Jaipur, Rajasthan - The Love City (North India)

My first day in Jaipur was heart-melting and soul-touching (JAIPUR: TIMELESS TRAVEL). The city, famously known as the Pink City, is renowned for its distinctive pink-colored buildings and architecture. This unique hue dates back to 1876 when Maharaja Sawai Ram Singh ordered the city to be painted pink to welcome the Prince of Wales (later King Edward VII). Pink, symbolizing hospitality, continues to dominate the old city's landscape, preserving its historic charm.

For me, Jaipur is the Love City. The day began with a visit to the Birla Mandir, also known as the Lakshmi Narayan Temple. Built by the Birla family in 1988, this modern architectural marvel is made entirely of pristine white marble and dedicated to Lord Vishnu and Goddess Lakshmi. Nestled at the base of Moti Dungri Hill, the temple's intricate carvings depict scenes from Hindu mythology, saints, philosophers, and historical figures (VARANASI: SACRED GANGES)

Jaipur, Rajasthan: Timeless Travel Magic

Bidding farewell to Varanasi (VARANASI SACRED GANGES) was a deeply sentimental moment for me; it's one of those places that etched a profound meaning into my soul. But reality dictates that we must move on, so from Varanasi Airport, we flew back to New Delhi, landing at the bustling Delhi Airport before heading to Hotel Sohi Residency for our one-night stay. I wish I had more positive things to say about this hotel, but when you’re informed that accommodations will be three-star, expectations are modest. While I am far from being a travel diva, the bedsheets, pillow covers, and blanket left me questioning the cleanliness. The one redeeming feature was the super clean bathroom, a small consolation.