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.

Australia Cruise - Mandurah, Perth

What can it be in Perth (PERTH AUSTRALIA SITES) if not experiencing a cruise. Within just an hour’s drive south of the city, the best and most popular Mandurah Dolphin Cruise in Perth is none other than the Mandurah Cruise. For those not driving, reaching Mandurah is still convenient. Take the Mandurah Line from Perth Underground Station (below Perth Station), and after arriving, a 5 to 10-minute ride by shuttle bus or Uber leads straight to the foreshore and Mandurah cruise area.

Mandurah is known for its waterways, canals, and seaside nature setting. An ideal location for a relaxing Perth day trip cruise through calm waters. No wonder the Mandurah Cruise is  regarded as the best cruise experience in Perth and a must-do in Perth (VENICE ITALY GONDOLA RIDE). 

How to Book a Mandurah Cruise
Nothing complicated, as online booking for Mandurah Dolphin Cruise makes it very convenient. It is best to book in advance, especially for weekends, holidays, and peak seasons, and bookings can also be made ahead of time. Buying tickets on the spot is possible at the Mandurah Cruises booking office or jetty counter, usually about 30 minutes before departure,. An option suited during off-peak periods (KERALA HOUSEBOAT). 

As for the types of cruises, all information is also available online. Popular options include the Dolphin Cruise & Views, Murray River Lunch Cruise, the seasonal Christmas Lights Cruise, and the Wild Seafood Cruise. The choice depends on budget, available time, and the kind of Mandurah cruise experience preferred.

Dolphin Cruise & Views
The most popular cruise in Perth, also known as the Mandurah Dolphin Cruise, the Dolphin Cruise & Views, departs around 11.30 a.m. and lasts between 1 to 1.5 hours.  Also known as “Lunch and Dolphin Cruise.” The cruise begins at Dolphin Quay, located in the Mandurah Ocean Marina. Arrive about 10 minutes earlier, and once boarding is announced, get on the boat and take a seat.

 

The boat leaves the jetty and cruises along Mandurah’s calm waterways, part of the well-known Mandurah canal cruise route, passing rows of canal homes and quiet residential areas that open into the wide Peel-Harvey Estuary. With the soft breeze blowing, it is for sitting back and admiring the views. In between, fish and chips are served, while on the lookout for wild dolphins, a highlight of dolphin watching in Perth.

The dolphins may not show up immediately, as they appear naturally. But when they do, it’s a wow moment. They jump, dive, and swim. Sometimes closer, or further away, and they are such a joy to see. A closer view of the dolphins will be from the lower deck.

 

The waterways are also home to pelicans, black swans, and cormorants, seen along the edges of the wetlands. Yet, the dolphins are the show. The cruise continues past waterfront homes and private jetties lining the canals, in Mandurah’s waterway.  It then makes a turn, for returning to the pier, along the same the scenic route.  Time sure flies by, before realising its time to step out of the boat.

 

All in all, the Mandurah Dolphin Cruise & Views is about what nature brings, for putting a smile on the face and moment of fulfilment.

Things to Do in Mandurah, Perth
Though the cruise is the main highlight, there are also other things to do in Mandurah nearby. These are easy to spot and all about looking around.

Simple activities include

Walking around Mandurah Foreshore for relaxation and quiet moments.

Head closer to Dolphin Quay to watch the waters or the cruise boats going up and down , a warm-up before the cruise or a reflective moment after, appreciating what a splendid nature experience it was.

A leisure stroll along the water’s edge is about simply being, or finding a shaded spot to sit back and take in the calm coastal views.

 

Attractions in Mandurah, Perth

A day in Mandurah can also be considered, particularly for those driving, as some attractions are a little further from the cruise area.

 

Creery Wetlands Nature Reserve
About 15 minutes’ drive from the cruise, Creery Wetlands Nature Reserve is ideal for those who love nature. Walk the trails or go birdwatching in a reserve, home to pelicans, black swans, and other water birds.

 

Mandurah War Memorial
Approximately 20-30 minutes’ drive takes you to the Mandurah War Memorial. A short stop allows for honoring local soldiers in silence, followed by a view of the foreshore nearby.

 

Lake Clifton Thrombolites
A 40–50 minute drive south of Mandurah leads to Lake Clifton Thrombolites. These unique living rock-like formations are some of the oldest lifeforms on Earth. A short walk along the boardwalk provides a close view for photography and appreciating this natural wonder.

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.

Perth, Australia

Perth, the capital of Western Australia, is located on the country’s western coast. Australia is the sixth-largest country in the world. Perth is far from the busier east coast cities like Sydney and Melbourne. Yet, over the years, Perth has also become abuzz, especially in the city areas (HANOI VIETNAM). 

Stepping into Perth city can feel like being in an Asian country. This trend is happening globally, as people move across borders for better opportunities, work as expats, or migrate. Perth has experienced this, resulting in a diverse mix of ethnicities and cultures.

Hanoi, Vietnam

Stepping into Hanoi, the first things that stand out are the busy streets filled with motorbikes, bicycles, street stalls, and locals going about their daily routines. Amidst the bustle, travellers navigate their way to top attractions and experiences in Hanoi. It’s overwhelming at first, yet Hanoi offers one of the most memorable travel experiences (HA LONG BAY, VIETNAM). 

 

Hanoi, the capital city of Vietnam, is located in the northern part of the country on the western bank of the Red River. Amidst the city’s busyness, nothing is short-changed. Historical sites in Hanoi, formerly part of Thang Long, coexist with modernisation and the still-retained French colonial architecture (COLOMBO, SRI LANKA WHAT TO DO). 

Ha Long Bay, Vietnam

Located in Quảng Ninh Province in northern Vietnam, Ha Long Bay is one of the most iconic natural destinations in Asia. A UNESCO World Heritage Site (ANGKOR WAT CAMBODIA) and recognized as one of the New 7 Wonders of Nature, Ha Long Bay is known for its limestone islands, calm waters, and scenic views.

In fact, Ha Long Bay is truly a nature temptation, luring travellers from all over the world. When visiting Ha Long Bay, especially on its famed boat cruises, it feels as though people from all walks of life have come together for a closer look at the bay. The unspoiled and preserved pride of Vietnam gives the feeling of walking back in nature time.

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.

Cambodia, Siem Reap - Wat Thmey (The Killing Fields)

A top sight in Cambodia that leaves a lasting mark is Wat Thmey (Killing Fields) in Siem Reap. Wat Thmey may not be one of Cambodia’s top attractions, perhaps overlooked or unheard of, yet it is where a painful chapter in the nation’s history is remembered.

Cambodia, bordered by Thailand, Laos, and Vietnam, has come a long way to where it is today. Nevertheless, it remains a nation shaped by grief. Once the heart of the mighty Khmer Empire, the country’s ancient roots still echo through its traditions, temples (ANGKOR WAT, CAMBODIA), and people’s resilience.

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

The pride of Cambodia is undeniably the magnificent Angkor Wat. Mention Cambodia, and literally everyone immediately pictures this historic and legendary site. Luring people from all walks of life, Angkor Wat is truly a once-in-a-lifetime destination. Angkor Wat indeed stands as Cambodia’s most iconic landmark and one of Southeast Asia’s greatest wonders (BOROBUDUR TEMPLE, JOGYAKARTA). 

 

Recognised by UNESCO as a World Heritage Site, located in Siem Reap, Angkor Wat was built in the early 12th century during the reign of King Suryavarman II. Originally a Hindu temple dedicated to Vishnu, it later became a Buddhist site. Today, Angkor Wat remains the largest religious monument in the world and a lasting symbol of Cambodia’s national identity (HO CHI MINH CITY SITES). 

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.

Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam

Busy and bustling, Ho Chi Minh City is Vietnam’s largest city. Formerly known as Saigon, it can feel chaotic, with streets full of motorbikes, cars, markets, shops, and street stalls. Traffic is constant, reflecting the city’s rapid growth and urban development.

The city is a blend of history and modern life. French colonial buildings with preserved facades stand alongside tall skyscrapers, office towers, shopping malls, and apartment blocks, showing how the old and new exist together (VERONA ITALY TOP THINGS TO DO). 

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.

Ayutthaya, Thailand

There is no sightseeing in Thailand without Ayutthaya on the list. A UNESCO World Heritage Site, (VERONA ITALY TOP SITES) Ayutthaya stands as one of the country’s most important historic landmarks, preserving the grandeur and legacy of a once-flourishing kingdom.

Recognized globally as one of the world’s most significant heritage sites, Ayutthaya, officially known as Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya, is both a city and a province in central Thailand. It was the former capital of the Kingdom of Siam and remains a symbol of Thailand’s legacy which cannot be erased.

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.

No-Bake Cheesecake Recipe

This vegetarian no-bake cheesecake uses just 5 simple ingredients (excluding decoration) and is for anyone looking for a simple homemade cheesecake recipe. It features a crumbly, buttery bottom layer topped with a creamy, smooth, and slightly tangy cheese layer. A delicious easy dessert you can make at home (MOIST BANANA CHOCOLATE CAKE).

No need to spend on digestive biscuits. Cream crackers are a cheaper alternative and give a delightfully crumbly base. For a denser base, simply add more butter.

Malay Style Prawn Noodles/Mee Udang

There is the Chinese-style prawn mee and the Malay-style prawn mee, known as Mee Udang. Both dishes use prawns and prawn broth, though the Chinese version, sometimes called Hae Mee, may also include chicken or pork bones.

Mee Udang is a traditional Malay dish. It is popular in Malacca, Klang, and coastal towns in Penang. The dish is part of Indian-Muslim (Mamak) cuisine and well-known in Malaysian street food and Malay eateries (FRIED KEMBUNG WITH ASAM SAUCE).

Moist Banana Chocolate Cake Recipe

Moist, tender, and melting in the mouth, this Banana Chocolate Cake recipe combines two classic favorites in one delightful loaf cake. Baked as a simple chocolate banana loaf cake, the best part is that there’s no creaming or beating of eggs with a mixer.

Ideal for those who prefer straightforward baking without the need for special utensils. Everything is handmade. Just mixing and combining before it goes into the oven.

Portuguese Vegetable Pickle/Achar

Although time-consuming and best made in bulk, making this Portuguese Vegetable Pickle, also known as Achar, is well worth the effort. Crunchy green chilies, shallots, and garlic soak in an aromatic, zesty, and slightly tangy vinaigrette, creating an appetizing homemade spicy vinegar pickle.

This version features only chilies, shallots, and garlic, though you can add vegetables such as long beans, French beans, carrots, white radish, or cabbage, or any other firm vegetables that pickle well (NO-COOK CUCUMBER SALAD).

Things to Do in Verona, Italy

Verona in summer has cool breezes and gentle streets, in a city of romance and love in Italy. The simple vibes add to the sense of love in the air. Rustic stone landmarks in Verona add more feeling to the city. Verona is in northern Italy, in the Veneto region between Milan and Venice.

 

Driving to Verona from Venice (TOP SITES IN VENICE) takes about two hours, and an overnight stay makes the experience more meaningful. Listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Verona has existed for over 2,000 years. Its heritage sites make the city one of the top attractions in Verona. Walking through the city unhurriedly while stopping at sightseeing spots, with breaks for lunch or coffee, fits the pace of Verona.

Bread Pudding Recipe

Five-ingredient bread pudding, a beloved dessert. An absolutely beautiful, visually appealing result. Soft, warm, and creamy, it has a custard-like texture that melts in your mouth. This is not an ordinary recipe. It has a twist that’s probably unlike the others.

 

What makes it special? It’s made with almost expiring bread slices. A vegetarian dessert that won’t let down non-vegetarians either. Naturally sweetened with dark raisins, it’s an ultimate easy vegetarian bread pudding.

Venice, Italy - Top Attractions

Venice is a city of boats, gondolas, and vaporettos moving through narrow canals. It is built on 118 small islands connected by over 400 bridges in the Venetian Lagoon along the Adriatic Sea. The Grand Canal is the main thoroughfare, and a gondola ride is one of the key activities in Venetian waters.

Besides the gondola ride, there are other things to do in Venice. The journey usually begins with a boat ride from the main arrival point, passing famous landmarks along the way. Summer is the peak season, but Venice in Italy (PISA ITALY TOP ATTRACTIONS) attracts crowds throughout the year. During busy times, lines form to disembark, and once on land, the walk into Venice begins. Gradually, the crowd spreads out, leaving enough space to move around for the activities in Venice.

Pisa, Italy - Top Attractions

There can’t be a trip to Italy without including Pisa. For first-time tourists, Pisa is a must. After a day in Florence (TOP ATTRACTIONS IN FLORENCE), the city is just a 1-1.5-hour drive away. The main attraction is the world-famous Leaning Tower of Pisa, one of the top Pisa attractions. 

To make the trip even more worthwhile, consider staying overnight. Options range from small, cozy boutique hotels near the tower to stylish hotels in Piazza dei Miracoli or a guesthouse along the Arno River.

How to Travel to Piazza dei Miracoli, Pisa, Italy
In Pisa, travelling to the Piazza dei Miracoli, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, brings people to view the Leaning Tower, the cathedral, the baptistery, and the monumental cemetery. This cluster of landmarks, often called the “Square of Miracles,” is the main attraction in Pisa, admired for its remarkable ancient historic medieval architecture.