Bangkok, Thailand: A Journey of Temples and Wax Celebrities

Starting my Bangkok trip on a Monday morning without any prior room booking (Chonburi To Pattaya), I hitched a ride with my friend's colleague. Upon arrival, I attempted to secure a room at the lobby but was informed of no availability due to the year-end holiday season. Thankfully, the receptionist kindly recommended the Pathumwan Princess Hotel. Thankfully, I managed to book a room for 2 nights. The security measures at the hotel entrance put me at ease as I entered my room, greeted by comfort, and elegance.

After a brief respite, curiosity led me downstairs to stumble upon a travel agency nestled within the hotel lobby. Intrigued, I wandered in, only to be met with a curious question: why was I traveling solo? And thus, my journey truly commenced. Opting for a half-day tour of Bangkok's renowned temples, I followed the staff's suggestion to grab a quick lunch bite at the adjacent MBK Shopping Mall before being picked up by the tour guide.

Indulgent Cheesecake Recipes: Sweet Delights Await

Are you ready to dive into the delicious world of cheesecakes? Well, buckle up because we've got you covered! Today, we're sharing five tantalizing cheesecake recipes that will make your taste buds sing. But before we dive into the recipes, let's debunk the myth that cheesecakes are complicated to make. Trust me, they're easier than you think. 

Bottom Layer Tips 
Classic Base Swaps 
Crushed digestive biscuits with melted butter are the traditional choice, but why not switch things up by using cream crackers for a unique twist?

Malay Style Prawn Noodles/Mee Udang

Malay Style Prawn Noodles/Mee Udang features prawn and anchovy broth-based noodles, setting it apart from Chinese-style dishes like Penang Prawn Mee or Hae Mee (HOKKIEN HAE MEE & PENANG PRAWN MEE). The inspiration for my version of this dish? It's a mystery to me! One day, while surfing the web, the idea just popped into my head. 

Now, let's be real - the cooking process can get a bit involved, and the ingredient list might seem lengthy. But fear not, everything you need can be found at your local grocery store. And trust me, the effort is totally worth it once you taste the explosion of flavors in every mouthful.

I've even included a recipe for a spicy sambal dip to accompany the dish, adding an extra layer of deliciousness. As a Malaysian, I believe a sambal dip is a must-have, don't you agree? I mean, what's a Malaysian noodle dish without that spicy kick? We Malaysians sure do love our chilies (MALAY STYLE MEE GORENG UDANG).

Chonburi to Pattaya (Thailand): Ms. Nava's First Solo Travel and Beyond

Back from my very first trip abroad (Milan), can you believe it? Within just two months (Rome), I found myself on my first solo adventure. It wouldn't have happened without my girlfriend, who was at Amata Golf & Country Club in Chonburi, Thailand, organizing a golf tournament. She was amazing. Without her, I wouldn't have even considered traveling alone, especially for the first time. I owe her so much. But it's heartbreaking to think she's no longer here. She passed away a few years ago from breast cancer, in her early 50s. I miss her till this day. I was there for her through everything, from her chemotherapy to her funeral. It still brings tears to my eyes.

But let's put that aside for a moment. I booked my flight to Bangkok, and my hub saw me off at the check-in. I was shaking with nerves as I went through the procedures. Basically following others, and made it in one piece on board.

Easiest Banana Chocolate Cake: Simple and Delicious

We've got everyone covered - whether you bake for therapy, for your loved ones who prefer homemade cakes, or for entertaining guests at your home parties. Even if you're simply a cake enthusiast who enjoys admiring pictures and dreaming of indulging, we're here for you. And if you own a baking business and want to use our banana chocolate cake recipe as your secret weapon, feel free - we have no qualms. Perhaps you could even mention Nava's Zen to your clients?

"Como, Lugano, and Milan: Lakeside Escapes and Urban Adventures

The final stretch of my 9-day Italian adventure (VERONA) marked another chapter of exploration (NUWARA ELIYA HILLSIDE & COLOMBO DISCOVERY), beginning with a visit to the stunning Lake Como, nestled cozily in the embrace of Lombardy. The moment I laid eyes on its tranquil waters, I was utterly captivated (SEOUL THROUGH MY EYES). We took our time, strolling leisurely along the shoreline, capturing each moment with our cameras and basking in the peaceful atmosphere. The morning breeze was crisp, sending shivers down my spine, but thankfully, my trusty scarf came to the rescue. While I was wrapped up like a mummy, the others seemed unaffected, lost in the beauty of the lake (JAIPUR MAGIC & NEW DELHI REVELATION).

Portuguese Vegetable Pickle/Achar: A Flavorful Delight from Tradition

In 2020, I whipped up this Portuguese vegetable pickle, or achar, as some may call it. This isn't my first rodeo with it - I've made it a couple of times before. You might be wondering why I'm only sharing it now. Well, the idea struck me as I was browsing through our YouTube channel. I thought, "Why not feature it as part of our Zen Cuisine?" Plus, not everyone prefers video recipes; some prefer the written words. 

Named as vegetable pickle, I've experimented with various veggies like carrots, cabbage, long beans, fresh beans, and even ginger. But after a couple of tries, I've settled on just green chilies, shallots, and garlic because these are what we tend to prefer, not the vegetables. That's what you'll find in the final product.

Verona, Italy: A Journey Through Romance and History

As the days dwindled down to just two left in Italy (Venice), a feeling of reluctance settled in (Florence). How I wished our tour could stretch on indefinitely, allowing us to bask in the beauty of this enchanting country a little while longer (Rome). But alas, reality beckoned, and we had to prepare for our return to the daily grind (JOHANNESBURG WILDLIFE & PRETORIA MOMENTS). 

Our next destination: Verona. By 9:00 am, we found ourselves standing before the majestic Adige River, its clean waters flowing serenely beneath our gaze. The sight was a balm to our senses, soothing our souls as we took in the natural wonder of the surrounding hills and bridges that dotted the landscape (SHIMLA NATURE'S LOVE & CHANDIGARH URBAN MARVELS). 

Vegetarian Fruity Bread Pudding: A Guilt-Free Delight

Let's take a flavorful journey into your kitchen, where bread isn't just a staple - it's a cherished necessity. In my home, it's not just for breakfast; it's the star of our light dinner meals. Picture this: two slices, perfectly complementing the savory curries or veggies we enjoyed for lunch. It's a simple joy, made even easier these days. Thanks to bread makers that churn out loaves effortlessly.

But what about those leftover slices? Ah, fear not! They can be frozen for future use, ensuring that no crumb goes to waste. Simply wrap them snugly in plastic or foil, or pop them into resealable bags to preserve their freshness. It's a small step towards mindful, sustainable living.

Now, before those bread slices bid adieu, why not give them a delicious encore?

Venice, Italy: A Day of Dreams

Amidst the hustle and bustle (CHENNAI INDIA DISCOVERY & SEOUL THROUGH MY EYES), we patiently waited for our turn to disembark from the boat and explore Venice on foot. Despite the initial chaos, I knew that the magic of Venice awaited just beyond the crowds, ready to be discovered and cherished (Florence & Rome).

As it was a bustling Sunday, navigating through the crowds (GANDWON-DO KOREA & PRETORIA MOMENTS) that swarmed the streets of Venice during the peak summer season proved to be quite the challenge. Human traffic was carefully managed to ensure a smooth flow of movement, with only a certain number of people allowed to walk together at a time to prevent chaos and congestion.

Gerai Signature (Kota Kemuning): Zen Dining Insights

Reflecting on my past as a blogger, approximately 7 years ago, invitations to private or group dining experiences were anything but straightforward. The portrayal of a zen dining experience often concealed the truthfulness of such reviews. Bloggers were given scripts and instructed to adhere strictly to them, mandating praise regardless of authenticity. These bloggers, now overtaken by so-called social media influencers, were sought after for their ability to craft beautiful narratives in exchange for complimentary food and products, presenting an idealized picture. 

However, I chose to maintain authenticity in my writing, even if it means receiving no invitations. Why would I need such invitations when I can afford to pay for my own meals? Paying for meals frees you from biased reviews, avoiding all the praise in exchange for free food.

Malaysian Potato Croquettes

Indulge in the universal allure of potatoes, a beloved staple found in kitchens worldwide. From the bustling streets to gourmet eateries, potatoes take center stage in diverse culinary creations. In my own home, they reign as a cherished favorite, whether added into comforting curries or delightful side dishes. Yet, what truly captivates the senses is the enchanting allure of Malaysian Potato Croquettes, a recipe close to my heart.

Why Malaysian, you may wonder? It's a nod to the fusion of flavors and traditions that define Malaysian cuisine. These delectable croquettes, lovingly shaped and fried to perfection, hold a special place in my Malaysian kitchen. The recipe embraces versatility, allowing you to craft them into any shape you desire, each bite bursting with savory goodness.

Pisa, Italy: The Legendary Leaning Tower

As the sun set on our day in Rome and also, next in Florence, my anticipation for the next morning's journey to Pisa soared. After all, what could be more captivating than the legendary Leaning Tower of Pisa? With excitement coursing through my veins, we embarked on the scenic route to Pisa, a journey that unfurled over four hours of picturesque landscapes and intriguing encounters (KOCHI KERALA KALEIDOSCOPE & COLOMBO DISCOVERY).

As we approached Pisa, the sight of street vendors lining the roads, their vibrant displays beckoning to passersby, caught me off guard. What surprised me even more was the diverse array of faces behind the stalls - foreigners adding their own flair to the city's charm (CHANDIGARH URBAN MARVELS). 

Fried Kembung (Mackerel) With Assam Sauce

Cooking with Fried Kembung (Mackerel) and Assam Sauce evokes a journey of flavors and nostalgia. Have you ever wandered through the bustling wet markets or strolled the aisles of a hypermarket, catching glimpses of the humble boiled kembung? Perhaps you've even taken home this unassuming fish, its potential yet to be unlocked in your kitchen.

 

There's a certain beauty in the simplicity of this dish - a beauty that lies in its uncomplicated nature and the rich flavors it offers. Boiled kembung, or mackerel as Google kindly translates, is a fish steeped in saltwater, readily available at local markets and hypermarkets alike. But before diving into the cooking process, a gentle rinse and thorough pat-dry are essential to maintain the fish's integrity during frying. Careful attention to these details ensures a crisp exterior without sacrificing the tender flesh within.

Find Your Perfect Fit: Women's Sports Sets That Cater to Your Needs

There is no longer any reason to dress in a manner that is inappropriate for gym wear. Modern activewear has a wide selection to choose from that are of various designs that will make the most of your looks and boost your training effort throughout the course. It does not matter whether you plunge for high-intensity interval training (HIIT), you are a yogi dedicatedly or need a brisk walk to feel comfortable, a perfect Cosmolle sports set for women will have a significant impact on your performance and your comfort.

The Classic Combo: Sports Bra & High-Waisted Leggings

The classic two-in-one still registers in many fans` favorites list despite the presence of other more fanciful models. Sports bras offer distinct levels of support, running from low impact for yoga or any light activity to high impact for some heavy-duty workouts like running or jumping. Seek for moisture particularly wicking textiles which keep you cool and dry throughout your exercises.

Florence, Italy: Where Art and History Flourish

Time seemed to evaporate, slipping away unnoticed. In the blink of an eye, mere moments had whisked me away to a realm of tranquility, a fleeting Zen-like experience (Osaka Sunsets & Kyoto Onsen Bareness). My soul hungered for a deeper immersion in the wonders of Rome, knowing full well that there were myriad treasures yet to uncover. Alas, such aspirations felt like mere fantasies, particularly amidst the constraints of a guided tour. But as one chapter closed, another beckoned with the promise of new adventures (Hokkaido Winter Wanderlust) and so we set our sights on Florence.