When we landed in Ho Chi Minh City around 2:30 pm, the city's energy hit me like a wave. After settling into my hotel room, I felt eyes on me as I joined the other travelers in the lobby. It was probably because I was the only solo woman in the group. After freshening up, I was ready to dive into the city. Our guide suggested we check out the Ben Thanh Market, a short walk from our hotel. Despite feeling a bit nervous about wandering alone, I decided to go for it. Along the way, locals smiled cheekily and waved, making me feel welcomed and uneasy as well.
Saturday, May 11, 2024
Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam: Married Solo Traveler's Insights
Friday, May 10, 2024
Kerabu Mangga (Mango Salad)
To me, Kerabu Mangga is more than just a salad - it's a nostalgic Malay dish. The combination of sweet and sour mango, the kick of spiciness from the chilies, the tanginess of shallots, the refreshing burst of mint leaves, and the satisfying crunch of roasted cashew nuts - it's a culinary experience that never fails to transport me to my Malaysian roots.
Nava's Zen: Two-Piece Yoga Outfits Challenge Indian Norms
The message was pretty clear: if you're doing yoga with Indians, wear faded stuff. Decency in temples for yoga, is part of respecting places of worship, which as a Hindu I honour. Yet, most stuck to the faded look. Some even resembled as though they are wearing their home clothes (HOME ATTIRE), and coming straight to temple yoga.
Thursday, May 9, 2024
Mochakottai Karuvadu Kulumbu (Field Beans Salted Fish Curry)
But amidst these considerations, there's something comforting about a touch of saltiness, like an old friend. Making this curry is simple, without any fuss. My goal is always to make cooking a joy, not a chore.
Rangoon Creeper: Cultivating Zen Blooming Bliss
Wednesday, May 8, 2024
Siamese Laksa Lemak
Not
your usual Siamese Laksa Lemak here! I like to spice things up with my own
twist in the kitchen. My culinary journey has taken me through Thailand,
picking up flavors from all corners (BANGKOK). From cookbooks to online recipes, from
chatting with locals to exploring Thai markets, I've soaked it all in. But one
thing's for sure, I don't just copy and paste recipes.
So, what makes my Laksa Lemak stand out? It's all about the ingredients. Picture this: Nava’s Zen basil leaves, fragrant kaffir lime leaves, zesty lemongrass, vibrant turmeric, fiery bird's eye chilies, and the unique torch bud ginger, Bunga Kantan (Turmeric Leaf, Chillies & Torch Ginger Bud). Sure, the list may seem long, but trust me, you can find them all right where you are. And if not, don't sweat it; just swap in whatever feels right. That's the beauty of cooking - being curious, experimenting, and making it your own.
Mee Rebus (Vegetarian)
Mee rebus is a well-loved noodle dish originating from Malaysia and Singapore. Its name, derived from Malay, translates to "boiled noodles." This dish consists of yellow noodles drenched in a flavorful gravy that strikes a delicate balance between sweetness and spice. The gravy is crafted from a blend of ingredients such as sweet potatoes, shrimp paste, dried shrimp, and a medley of spices.
Common toppings include hard-boiled egg, fried tofu, green onions, bean sprouts, and occasionally crispy shallots. I've had the pleasure of trying various renditions of mee rebus, both from restaurants and street vendors. Interestingly, some of the most satisfying versions I've encountered have been from street vendors, often at a more affordable price.
Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam: Married Solo Traveler's Insights
Setting off on another Solo Adventure after a few quiet months ( CHONBURI & BANGKOK ) I packed my bags with excitement bubbling inside...
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Let's talk Sodhi - a flavorful Indian coconut stew that's a hit in many households, including ours! It's like a cousin to Masak ...
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As I peer into the earthen pot , brimming with the flavorful Mochakottai Karuvadu Kulumbu, my appetite awakens. I must admit, I have a so...
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Growing up in the government quarters of Sungei Besi , just across from the army camp, I've always felt a deep connection to Malay c...