Sanur Festival: Celebrate Bali’s Coastal Culture in Style

Sanur isn’t just about sunrise walks and calm beaches (though I love those too, don’t get me wrong). This chill seaside town knows how to throw a good party while keeping things breezy, and the upcoming Sanur festival lineup proves it. If you’re looking for fun, color, and a peek into the actual local culture, here’s your cheat sheet for what’s coming next. Mark your calendar, gather your friends, and get ready to swap your Bintang for coconut water (or hey, have both) because these events in Bali will keep your Sanur days anything but boring!

 

Pica Fest (24 – 27 July 2025) at Lapangan Niti Mandala, Denpasar

Indian Food Review: Annapurna Restaurant (Rimbayu)

Social media platforms have become the go-to for discovering where to dine, what to eat, and which restaurants to try. That’s how I came across Annapurna Restaurant, a well rated Indian restaurant in Bandar Rimbayu, Selangor, Malaysia (16 G, Jalan Flora 1/1, 42500 Telok Panglima Garang). Their tagline, “Spices That Speak,” promises authentic Indian flavours, a tempting offer (EASIEST VEGETARIAN NASI LEMAK).

 

(Watch the full Indian dining experience at Annapurna Restaurant Rimbayu in Selangor on our YouTube channel)

Travelling as a Path to Mental Well-Being and Joy of Life

It is a well-established fact that globetrotters don't simply escape their daily routines; rather, they enter an unknown, magical world full of surprises and discoveries. Everyone who leaves their comfort zone is exposed to unusual experiences, diverse cultures, languages, and customs.  This self-discovery not only broadens their horizons but also positively affects physical and emotional well-being, leading to greater life satisfaction levels. Let's take a closer look at the mental health perks of travel. 

 

Nourishing Your Brain 
Psychologists have long noticed that travel stimulates blissful emotions and has a beneficial effect on the human psyche. When we venture to a spot we have never been before, or even just change the environment, our brains are supposed to adapt to novel conditions. 

Indonesia Food Guide

Indonesia is a large country both in size and population. With an estimated population of over 277 million people (as of 2025), it is the fourth most populous country in the world. Geographically, Indonesia is the largest archipelago, made up of over 17,000 islands, and ranks as the 14th largest country by land area (MOUNT MERAPI INDONESIA TOUR). 

With such diversity across its regions, Indonesia’s food culture is just as wide-ranging. In every city or town, food is part of daily life, and eating out is common. You might also come across Indonesian food outside the country, as some Indonesians living abroad have introduced it through small eateries or food ventures (IKAN BALADO RECIPE).

Stir-Fried Winged Beans: Kacang Botol Goreng Belacan

Stir-fried in a spicy, umami belacan paste, these winged beans stay crunchy and full of taste. This dish is a classic Malay-style stir-fried vegetable (KERABU BENDI/OKRA SALAD). It is known as Kacang Botol Goreng Belacan. The key ingredient is shrimp paste (belacan), a staple in Malaysian sambals, spicy gravies, and sauces.

 

Winged beans, also called four-angled beans or kacang botol in Malaysia, are nutritious and affordable. They can be replaced with French beans or long beans. Kangkung Belacan (water spinach stir-fry) is cooked the same way but softer for easier chewing.

Yoga for your pre-wedding planning process: Why is it a great way to manage the stress of this period and be Zen?

A wedding is among the most important days in your life, and particularly because of its significance, this event can bring considerable stress. This is why you must look for other ways that can help you alleviate some of the anxiety and stress of this period. It can be easy to get caught up in your wedding planning, but this process can also leave you feeling exhausted. This occurs because you have a long list of tasks to accomplish, and among the most important ones are finding your bride's dress, organizing the guest list, selecting the right venue, and searching for suitable vendors, among others.

So, when you want to be Zen and alleviate some of the stress, you can try yoga, which is one of the best ways to relax, spend time focusing on yourself, and also keep you in great shape. In this article, we will explore why incorporating yoga into your pre-wedding planning is a great idea. Keep reading to learn more.  

Asian Travel Food Guide: What to Eat in Vietnam

Vietnamese food stands out as one of Asia’s most vibrant and flavor-packed cuisines. With big, bold tastes and distinct character, it holds its own alongside Cambodian, Thai, Malaysian, and Indonesian food (SPICY LEMONGRASS FISH). When it comes to Asian flavours, it’s all about elevating the taste experience, and Vietnam delivers that through a unique mix of fresh ingredients and local cooking styles.

 

Whether you’re a meat lover or vegetarian, there’s something for everyone. Vietnamese food strikes a balance between subtlety and richness - dishes that gently light up the tastebuds without overpowering. So, what should you eat in Vietnam? The options are endless, from street stalls and roadside carts to restaurants and even high-end eateries (THINGS TO DO IN VIETNAM).

Sun Protection: Biore UV Perfect Protect Milk Review

How important is sun protection? In my opinion, it’s not just important, it’s non-negotiable for anyone serious about maintaining healthy skin. Regular use of sunscreen helps reduce the risk of wrinkles, pigmentation, and premature aging (PALMER'S SKIN THERAPY OIL). While the term “sunblock” still appears in casual conversations, it’s outdated in the skincare world. Sunscreens like Biore UV Perfect Protect Milk SPF50+ PA+++ offer reliable, broad-spectrum protection without claiming to block 100% of UV rays.

(A quick look at Biore UV Perfect Protect Milk SPF50+ PA+++ — lightweight texture, smooth application, and sun protection in action.)

Indian Food Near Me: Restaurant Dhiyaz Curry House

Restaurant Dhiyaz Curry House, which opened its doors in April, is one of the newer additions to the growing list of eateries in the now-popular Bandar Rimbayu area. Located at No. 20, 1/3, Persiaran Rimba, 42500 Bandar Rimbayu, Kuala Langat, Selangor, it’s a relatively short drive from our place in Kemuning Greenville, Kota Kemuning. We left at 11.00 a.m. and arrived by 11.15 a.m. on a Tuesday.

Walking in, we noticed three customers having their meals. The ambiance was welcoming - clean, brightly lit with yellow walls, and accented with a touch of Indian décor. No menu was handed out. Instead, we walked to the food counter and, from the decent spread available at that hour, we opted for two side dishes to go with our South Indian banana leaf lunch (RM11.90 each).

Easy Rice Pudding Recipe

Looking for a simple, comforting dessert? This easy homemade rice pudding recipe uses pantry staples like rice, sugar, and milk, or coconut milk. It’s similar to Indian kheer in the north and payasam in the south, loved for its creamy texture and gentle sweetness (EASY BREAD PUDDING).  

 

This recipe is flexible, affordable, and quick to make. With rice and some milk, you’re already halfway there.

 

This rice pudding can be served warm or chilled and is ideal for anyone who loves familiar, homey desserts. Whether you call it rice pudding, kheer, or payasam (PAYASAM RECIPE), the comfort is universal.

Asian Food Guide: Cambodian Food for Beginners

Heading to Cambodia (SIEM REAP, CAMBODIA TRAVEL) and wondering what to expect from its food? You’re in for a treat! If you're a fan of Asian cuisine, Cambodian food offers a delightful mix of flavors. Drawing influences from Malaysia, Thailand, Vietnam, China, and Indonesia, the food ranges from fresh and subtle to bold and spicy. Whether you’re at a street stall, casual eatery, or upscale restaurant, there’s something to suit every palate. And don’t worry, vegetarians will find plenty of flavorful options, too.

How to Order Cambodian Food

Not speaking Cambodian? No problem! When you're at street food stalls, just point to the dish you want. Vendors are used to tourists, and a smile will go a long way. In restaurants, menus usually have pictures and sometimes English translations, making it easy to order. Be mindful of portion sizes, though - they might surprise you,

Best Things To do In South India

There’s so much more to discover when it comes to things to do in South India, especially with the diverse experiences across the states we journeyed through (BEST TOURIST SPOTS IN SOUTH INDIA). Traveling by coach allowed us the pleasure of catching up on sleep and admiring the ever-changing scenery. From bustling cities to quaint villages, from being caught in traffic jams to taking comfort breaks along the way, it was all part of the adventure. Our sightseeing journey officially began in the misty hills of Kodaikanal.

Traditional Malay Food Review: Selera Kampung Nasi Campur

For the longest time, whenever we’re at AEON Bukit Rimau, Shah Alam, Selangor to run errands or pick up a few things, we never miss having lunch at Selera Kampung Nasi Campur. Sometimes, I even bring along my containers to pack their food back home. We usually arrive early, around 11:30 am, to avoid the lunchtime crowd. This stall is by far the most popular among the few in the food court.

Bread Pudding Recipe: Malaysian Style

When it comes to bread pudding, it's all about waste not, want not. This Malaysian-style bread pudding recipe is a go-to when needing to use up near-expiry bread slices, crusts included. No waste, no fuss (FRUITY BREAD PUDDING). And when you add the beautiful aroma of pandan leaves (screwpine), you get that unmistakable local Malaysian taste.

 

This is a healthier version of bread pudding. Instead of condensed milk, which is often too sweet, plain carton milk is used with a light touch of sugar. You can even swap in coconut milk for a creamier, more indulgent texture.

Best Tourist Spots in South India, India

South India comprises several states in the southern part of India - Tamil Nadu, Karnataka, Andhra Pradesh, Telangana, and Kerala (TOURIST PLACES IN KERALA). Our nine-day trip began in Bengaluru, Karnataka, and continued to Mysuru (also in Karnataka) and Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu. Though this was another solo trip for me, I joined a tour group of about 20 people, traveling by coach from one destination to another.

Bengaluru, Karnataka

Lalbagh Botanical Garden

Spanning over 240 acres, Lalbagh Botanical Garden is one of Bengaluru’s must-visit attractions. Established in 1760 by Hyder Ali, it features more than 1,000 plant species from across the world. The garden’s highlight is the Glass House, which hosts an annual flower show inspired by London’s Crystal Palace.

Holistic Wellness: 5 Quick Yoga Tips

What Is Holistic Wellness? 

Key “holistic wellness” into any search engine and dozens of definitions pop up. Most say roughly the same thing. Ask Ms. Nava, founder of Nava’s Zen Holistic Wellness, and she’ll tell you this:

 

Holistic Wellness is about your complete self - your whole package inside and out - linked to everything that matters to you: where you live, what you do, who you’re with, and when you do it. It’s the connection you discover between breath, body, mind, and soul.

Fried Banana Chips Recipe

Crunchy, crispy, and lightly spiced, these banana chips are a beloved accompaniment for home-cooked rice meals (RICE-COOKER TURMERIC RICE) and are looked forward to in unassumingly Indian eateries. Making fried banana chips isn’t complicated. It’s all about time, batch-frying, and ensuring they are crispy fried without burning. This Indian banana chips recipe shows you how to make banana chips easily at home.

The bananas used for these crispy banana chips are green bananas, known as Valakkai in Tamil, which gives the recipe its name in Tamil as Valakkai Chips or Valakkai Poriyal (though “poriyal” usually refers to stir-fries).

Kopitiam Review: Kawan Place Kota Kemuning

Located on a corner lot in Kota Kemuning, Shah Alam, Selangor, Kawan Place offers a choice of indoor or outdoor seating. Green is their highlight color - seen on the signboard, façade, and dining area - while the overall ambiance feels clean and welcoming. We arrived on a Monday at about 11:15 a.m.; as we entered the indoor dining area, we noticed a few customers tucking into their meals at the outside pavement dining area (WHERE TO EAT IN PERAK).

Chinese Steamed Chicken Recipe

Tender and juicy chicken, served with ginger sauce. The fresh aroma of ginger, the bright burst of spring onions, and the nutty scent of sesame oil make this a delicious, wholesome, and simple Chinese meal (CHINESE EGG FRIED RICE). 

 

Truly, Chinese cooking doesn’t get easier. Steaming is straightforward, and the no-cook Chinese Ginger Dip delivers a beloved spicy kick. The succulent steamed chicken (EASY CHICKEN SALAD) is eaten by dipping into the Chinese sauce.

Best Turmeric Rice Recipe: Rice Cooker Style

Best in the sense that it’s not only known as turmeric rice but also as golden rice. Fluffy grains, earthy, peppery, and buttery, with a satisfying crunch from nuts and natural sweetness from raisins. Though some stove-top prep is required, this recipe is mostly cooked in the rice cooker for ease and consistency.

 

Turmeric powder, a powerful antioxidant with numerous health benefits. A staple of Indian cooking and has now found its place in Western kitchens. Basmati rice is also known for its health benefits compared to plain white rice, with light, separate grains and a fragrant aroma.

Vegetarian White Bee Hoon Recipe - Indian Style

Forever a classic - fragrant, nutritious, and wholesome. This Indian-style vegetarian white bee hoon (rice vermicelli) is a family favorite. The aroma of curry leaves, the gentle heat of dried red chilies, and the crunch of cabbage come together in soft or al-dente fried bee hoon.

 

Simple, affordable, and homemade (INDIAN CREAMED SPINACH), this stir-fried bee hoon is enjoyed for breakfast, tea-time, or even as a light dinner.

Where to Eat in Perak: A Foodie’s Guide

Perak is one of Malaysia’s states where food is never in short supply. From hawker stalls and humble street setups to upscale restaurants and hotel dining, you’ll find a variety of hearty meals. As for us, we chose to go with the flow (WHAT TO DO IN PERAK) - stopping wherever caught our attention instead of planning too much. Whether you’re visiting for the first time or you're a curious local (CAMERON HIGHLANDS TRAVEL GUIDE), this guide shares some of the must-try eateries we explored across Perak.

Little House Café (Jalan Stesen, Tapah)

A quick online search while passing through Tapah brought us to this old-school, humble kopitiam. We ordered Black Pepper Chicken Chop, Hainanese Chicken Chop with fries, Fish Soy Rice Set, and Petai Squid Rice Set. Every dish was satisfying, home-style, and generous in portion. Halal Malaysian fusion at an affordable price—definitely worth stopping for. (WHERE & WHAT TO EAT IN PENANG). Even as a small eater, I finished my Hainanese Chicken Chop!

Mutton Curry Recipe/Masala Mutton Gravy

The simply aromatic, top-notch flavor profile of Indian spices defines this Indian-style Mutton Curry. Tender mutton in a thick, spicy gravy awakens the palate instantly, while crushed black pepper adds a sharp heat and lingering spiciness (CHETTINAD MUTTON CURRY).

 

Mutton curries with black pepper are popular across regions, each with unique local names. In Kerala, it’s called Meat Pepper Curry or Irachi Milagu Curry. In Tamil Nadu, simply South Indian Mutton Curry. It is Milagu Mutton in Sri Lanka, whereas, in Bangladesh, known as Kala Bhuna, and in Durban, South Africa, as Durban Mutton Curry.

Adolescents' Global Mental Health Crisis: Holistic Wellness Yoga

Author

Ms. Krishnan N, a Zenpreneur in her 60s, founded Nava's Zen at 58. With 22 years as a lecturer, including 13 years in the Curtin University of Technology Perth, Australia Degree Twinning Program, she is now a certified yoga instructor, coach, and counselor. Her expertise enriches her current work.

Abstract
The mental health crisis among adolescents has become a global concern, with rising rates of stress, anxiety, and emotional challenges. While traditional approaches to mental health often focus on psychological interventions, holistic wellness through practices such as yoga has gained recognition as an effective remedy. Yoga, which integrates breathwork, physical postures, and mindfulness, offers a unique solution to promote mental health, physical wellness, and emotional resilience among adolescents. This article explores the potential of yoga, focusing on its holistic approach to well-being and its benefits in addressing mental health issues faced by adolescents.

What to Do in Perak: Travel Guide

Our travel adventure in Perak continued, revealing a blend of well-known destinations and hidden gems (DISCOVER PERAK: MUST SEE & HIDDEN GEMS) Some of these travel discoveries were truly worth experiencing - especially if you love exploring beyond typical tourist trails. We used Ipoh as our base for the night and journeyed outwards, spending solid hours on the road. But for travelers who don’t mind driving a bit, it’s definitely worth the time and effort (KUALA KUBU BHARU: A DAY TRIP).

Gunung Lang Recreational Park (Ipoh)

For nature lovers visiting Ipoh, Gunung Lang Recreational Park is a fulfilling stop. This serene escape, surrounded by limestone hills and a tranquil lake, is one of Ipoh’s scenic gems. Ideal for a breather from city life, it’s a place to slow down and admire nature. We spent about 15 minutes by the lake and chose not to explore further into the park’s trails (EXPLORING BETONG, THAILAND).

Sardine Sambal/Sambal Sardin: Canned Sardine Recipe

Ever classic, ever beloved, spicy sardine made with canned sardines is simply irresistible. No dried chilli paste is needed, so you don’t have to pound or blend even if using fresh chillies. For tanginess, there’s no need for tomatoes. The sauce in the canned sardines works as it is.

 

The twist for this recipe is home-grown lemongrass, turmeric leaf, and bird’s eye chillies, which add fragrance, spiciness, and the health benefits of cooking with herbs. Known as sambal sardine for Malay cooking, or sarden sambal for Indonesian food, it’s called sarden balado when made with balado sauce (SPICY EGGS/TELUR BALADO).

Smith's Diner (Kota Kemuning): Western Food Review

The latest buzz in Kota Kemuning, Shah Alam, Selangor - Smith’s Diner caught our attention through a Facebook food group. Curious and ready to explore, we headed over last Sunday.To beat the weekend crowd, we arrived early at 6:30 PM and were the first two customers of the evening.

The ambiance? Nothing overly fancy, but pleasantly inviting. The interior is clean, cosy, and tastefully simple - just the right setting for a relaxed dining experience.

Easy Indian Creamed Spinach Curry (Vegetarian)

All natural goodness and deliciousness. Healthy, nutrient-packed coconut milk creaminess, glossy spinach, golden turmeric, and aromatic curry leaves. Along with chillies and a splash of lime juice, this creamed spinach recipe brings vibrant flavor and extra nutritious value to your plate (PICKLED EGGPLANT). 

Rich in vitamins, antioxidants, and wholesome plant-based goodness, it’s a budget-friendly dish that doesn’t compromise on benefits. Nothing beats home-cooked meals for wellness.

Discover Perak: Must-See Attractions & Hidden Gems

Perak is packed with must-see attractions and unexpected hidden gems. Our journey was unplanned, guided only by road signs that pointed us to well-known sites and surprising discoveries. Town by town, city by city, we explored Perak in the most spontaneous way, uncovering places that made the trip truly memorable (CAMERON HIGHLANDS TRAVEL GUIDE).

HOGA Gaharu Tea Valley (Gopeng)

A road sign led us to HOGA Gaharu Tea Valley, expecting just another tea plantation. Instead, we found a breathtaking valley of Gaharu (Agarwood) trees. The drive uphill, passing rows of young and mature trees, was mesmerizing - a true escape into nature.

Raub SYC Hainan Kopitiam Review

I missed the chance to dine at Raub SYC Hainan Kopitiam during my visit to Raub last year (RAUB, TRAS, PAHANG VISIT) Not a major setback, as they’ve since expanded to Kota Kemuning, Setapak, and USJ. Naturally, the Kota Kemuning outlet was the most convenient, located near Nava’s Zen in Kemuning Greenville.

I visited on a mid-week morning around 9:30 AM. The kopitiam had a spacious and clean ambiance, with about half of the seating occupied and a steady stream of customers. The menu offered a wide selection, and it took some time for the three of us to decide.