Thursday, May 9, 2024

Rangoon Creeper: Cultivating Zen Blooming Bliss

Rangoon Creeper covering a pergola with vibrant red flowers in clusters." (119 characters
(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.

Wednesday, May 8, 2024

Siamese Laksa Lemak

Close view of Siamese Laksa, made with fish Thai curry paste broth, rice noodles, garnished with pineapple, red chilies, torch ginger, cucumber and Thai basil leaves.
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)

Vegetarian Mee Rebus, made with yellow noodles, atop with a spicy sweet potato gravy, green chilies, boiled egg, fried fritters, bean sprouts and spring onions.
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.

Monday, May 6, 2024

Things to Do in Bangkok, Thailand

transgender performers in ravishing costumes and make-up, performing in Bangkok Cabaret Show.
Whether you're a solo traveler in Bangkok, or visiting with family or friends, one of the best ways to discover Bangkok is by joining a guided tour. From half-day to full-day options, tours cover top Bangkok attractions and usually include hotel transfers and lunch (AYUTTHAYA THAILAND TOP THINGS TO DO).

Booking a tour saves time and avoids the hassle of negotiating with tuk-tuk drivers, helping you steer clear of unwanted issues such as language barriers or drivers insisting on tips. It’s a more convenient and structured approach to sightseeing in Bangkok.

Saturday, May 4, 2024

Top Things to Do in Ayutthaya Thailand

Indian lady seating on a stone platform beside a big stone Buddha in Ayutthaya, Thailand.
When it comes to traveling in Thailand, Ayutthaya is a destination not to be missed. Once the capital of the Kingdom of Siam from 1351 to 1767, Ayutthaya was among the world’s largest and most cosmopolitan cities at its peak in the 17th century. Now recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the city was destroyed by the Burmese army in 1767. Despite its fall, Ayutthaya remains a lasting symbol of Thailand’s cultural and historical identity.

Whether you choose to stay overnight in Ayutthaya or prefer a day trip from Bangkok (BANGKOK TOP ATTRACTIONS), exploring the ancient city is convenient and accessible. Most hotels in Bangkok and local tour operators offer affordable packages to Ayutthaya, with transport included. These tours typically handle all the arrangements, including pick-up and drop-off at your accommodation. If you're heading out in the morning, be ready by 7:00 AM. The journey takes approximately 1.5 hours, depending on traffic. (KULLU MANALI INDIA SIGHTSEEING).

Friday, May 3, 2024

Pepper Soup: Instant Rasam

Indian Pepper Soup, made with spice mix, garlic, shallots, tomato, tamarind juice, curry leaves, water and salt.
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.

Wednesday, May 1, 2024

Bangkok, Thailand - Top Attractions to Visit

Indian lady holding Julia Roberts's figurine at Madam Tussauds, Bangkok, Thailand.
Bangkok, the vibrant capital of Thailand, is one of the country’s most visited destinations, drawing countless tourists from around the world. While the city’s traffic can be overwhelming, Bangkok remains the ideal entry point via Suvarnabhumi Airport, the main international hub for transiting to other parts of Thailand or abroad.

There’s plenty to experience. The best things to do in Bangkok often revolve around its legendary landmarks and classic tourist spots. No matter your travel style, the top attractions in Bangkok continue to draw visitors. These sightseeing spots are must-visits at least once, whether or not you plan to return again. 

Papaya Salad Recipe

Crunchy, fresh, crisp, spicy, and tangy papaya salad. Truly an appetizing dish that wakes up your taste buds instantly. Whether as a healthy...