Top 5 Things to Do in Copenhagen, Denmark

Copenhagen offers plenty to explore, from historic landmarks to iconic tourist attractions. Whether you're on a free and easy sightseeing trip or part of a guided tour, the city has something for everyone. If you're touring without a fixed itinerary, take your time to discover hidden gems, wander the charming streets, and indulge in Copenhagen’s growing wine and dine scene, including organic wines and local dishes like roasted pork (flæskesteg).

For travelers on a fixed tour schedule, especially those combining their trip with Norway, you’ll likely spend around three days in Copenhagen, which usually includes Amalienborg Palace. You can also opt for a city tour, the best way to cover other significant landmarks. To visit castles outside the city center, such as Frederiksborg Castle or Kronborg Castle (Hamlet’s Castle), allow at least an hour of travel time, depending on your starting point in Copenhagen (COPENHAGEN TRAVEL GUIDE).

Tom Yum Soup: Coconut Milk Thai Style

Whether it a plain simple Thai soup, or Tom Yum style, it all comes back to the Southeast Asian Herbs. Galangal and lemongrass the common cooking with herbs, and for aroma the famed kaffir lime leaves, or even coriander leaves (STEAMED FISH THAI STYLE). 

Whether it’s a homemade paste, or store bought Tom Yum Paste, or without a paste, yet with the beloved Thai deliciousness.

 

Apart from the common fiery red tom yum, there is also there white tom yum (Tom Yum Nam Sai) and this tom yum soup with coconut milk (Tom Yum Nam Khon).

Copenhagen, Denmark Travel Guide

Denmark, a Nordic country in Northern Europe, is made up of a mainland and several islands. With strong Viking roots and one of the world’s oldest monarchies, Denmark has played a key role in European history. Today, it ranks as one of the happiest and safest countries in the world.

Mention Denmark, and what comes to mind is clean air, peaceful countryside, and a deep connection to nature, especially beyond the busy cities. These are just some of the reasons why travelers choose Denmark as a destination (SHIMLA INDIA TRAVEL GUIDE).

Best Things to Do in Thailand: Krabi & Phuket

Krabi and Phuket are two of the most popular provinces in southern Thailand, known for their stunning beaches and vibrant coastal experiences. Tourists are drawn to Krabi beaches and Phuket beaches for their natural beauty, clear waters, and a wide range of water-based activities such as island hopping, snorkeling, and scuba diving. 

These southern Thailand travel destinations are also featured on cruise itineraries, offering convenient sea access. Additionally, both provinces are easily reachable by air, with international airports in Krabi and Phuket providing direct connections from major cities (BANGKOK THAILAND THINGS TO DO).

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)

Pulau Ketam, also known as Crab Island, is a small Chinese fishing village with amenities that mirror those in the cities. There’s a police station, a school, community spaces, and provision shops that double up as souvenir stores selling Pulau Ketam-made trinkets, proof that life here is simple yet complete (PULAU KETAM TRAVEL GUIDE).

Generally calm and quiet, the village comes alive during peak seasons, with tourism being the main source of income for locals. Taking the ferry (MANDURAH PERTH CRUISE) into Pulau Ketam gives your first clue, no cars are allowed. The only modes of transport are bicycles and electric motorbikes that whiz along the narrow cement lanes. So, keep an eye out, don’t get in their way, and hopefully, they won’t get in yours.

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) 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

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.