Masi Magam Thiruvizha/Festival, Pulau Pangkor

I am definitely not the most devout person. I certainly don’t look like one, alright? But I believe deeply in my religion, Hinduism. You won't find me in the temple, fervently praying and performing rituals, because my philosophy towards Hinduism is that being a good human is what being religious truly means. Are you a good human (CHANDIGARH INDIA TEMPLES). 

When I was invited to attend the Pulau Pangkor Masi Magam Thiruvizha, or festival, I thought, why not? It would be my first experience, and I was eager to see what it was all about. My friend took care of all the arrangements, including transport. On Sunday, we departed from Klang Sentral Bus Terminal and arrived in Lumut by late afternoon for the ferry ride to Pulau Pangkor (CHENNAI TEMPLES & NEW DELHI TEMPLES).

Chickpea Curry Recipe

Not just chickpeas, this spiced Indian curry with spinach, is simply delicious. Indeed, a healthy recipe with no magic. Just simple ingredients and aromatic spices. Instead of using ready-made fish or meat curry powders, this curry is made with a combination of spice powders, creating a full, well-rounded taste beyond a plain curry (VEGETARIAN POTATO CURRY).

 

Chickpeas for this curry are the canned version. Whether you prefer to boil your own or use canned, chickpeas are packed with protein, fiber, vitamins, and minerals. They are a great source for supporting heart health and sustained energy, for vegetarians and non-vegetarians alike.

Even nibbling on a few chickpeas gives health benefits.

Indian Fish Curry with Coconut Milk

An Indian Fish Curry, South Indian style, striking in spices with a reddish dark brown hue. A dish that instantly captures your food love - simple, nothing complicated, yet so satisfying. Coconut milk adds a creamy, mildly sweet flavor that softens the spiciness, while a touch of sourness rounds everything off for a perfectly balanced profile (SRI LANKAN FISH CURRY). 

In a Malaysian kitchen, though, a South Indian Fish Curry often takes on a local twist (SOUTH AFRICAN FISH CURRY). Vegetables are added, something not typically done in South India. For this version, eggplant joins the curry. The rest of the ingredients are a mix of common kitchen staples and fresh finds.

Best Things to Do in Norway

Planning a trip to Norway from Asia usually requires at least four full days for sightseeing, especially with a packed itinerary. Most Asian travelers, from countries like Singapore, Malaysia, India, Japan, and China, arrive via transit through hubs like Doha, Dubai, Istanbul, or major European airports.

Overnight flights to Oslo, Norway’s main international airport, are common, with many beginning their sightseeing right after arrival. Depending on the itinerary, some continue to Bergen or Tromsø via domestic flights. Norway offers plenty to see, but most visitors focus on key highlights across the country, not just Oslo, since it’s impossible to cover everything (NORWAY TRAVEL GUIDE).

Norway Travel Guide

Norway is a country of natural wonders, tall mountains, deep valleys, lush forests, and clean, crisp air. It’s perfect for nature lovers and anyone who enjoys outdoor activities. With its long coastline, scenic fjords, and many islands, Norway offers stunning views at every turn. Because of its northern location, you’ll find cold winters, cool summers, and rare sights like the midnight sun and northern lights.

Norway sits in Northern Europe on the Scandinavian Peninsula, sharing borders with Sweden, Finland, and Russia. Some visitors include Norway in a wider Northern Europe trip, visiting nearby countries like Denmark, Sweden, and Finland.

Keema Recipe

Mince meat cooked in a spicy, dry-style curry, that’s keema. This popular South Asian dish is loved in India, Pakistan, Bangladesh, Nepal, and even Malaysia. You can make keema with lamb, mutton (MUTTON RENDANG), beef, or chicken. Use home-ground meat or store-bought minced meat for convenience.

Keema is versatile. Add green peas, potatoes, or sliced button mushrooms, or keep it simple with just meat. Pantry-friendly ingredients are enough. No need for fancy extras. This recipe uses lamb, but you can easily swap in other meats or even make a vegetarian version called Vegetable Keema (VEGETABLE KURMA).

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).