Sailing Through The Iconic Limestone Karsts of Halong Bay, Vietnam

Halong Bay, Vietnam

Nestled in the northeastern part of Vietnam, Halong Bay stands as a testament to the sublime beauty of nature. This UNESCO World Heritage site, renowned for its emerald waters and towering limestone karsts, is a captivating destination that beckons travellers from across the globe.

The name Hạ Long means "descending dragon"; its remarkable limestone karsts, sculpted over centuries by wind and water. These towering formations create a surreal seascape, often shrouded in mist, adding an ethereal quality to the landscape. According to the local legend, the karsts are the remnants of dragons that once descended to protect the region.

Whether you're an adventure seeker, a nature enthusiast, or a laid-back traveller, Halong Bay has something to offer for everyone. Here's a quick guide on what to do in this enchanting destination.

The Rails and Resilience of Hanoi's Train Street, Vietnam

Hanoi's Train Street, Vietnam

Hanoi, the bustling capital of Vietnam, is known for its vibrant culture, rich history, and delicious street food. But hidden amidst the chaos of this bustling metropolis lies a unique and captivating attraction that has been gaining international attention, Hanoi's Train Street. This narrow alley, sandwiched between houses and shops, has become a must-visit destination for travellers seeking an authentic experience in the heart of the city.

My first visit to Hanoi's Train Street was discovered by accident when I was walking from my hotel to Hanoi Railway Station (Ga Hà Nội) in 2012. I remember that time I was going to catch a train to Sapa, a picturesque town of Lào Cai Province in the Northwest region of Vietnam. Love at first sight, I'm in love with the atmosphere of the train street where I could catch a glimpse of the local life. That time, only a few or close to no tourists, not many cafes or businesses, and no tables and chairs lining along the train track. In 2014, I visited Hanoi again, and I took every opportunities to walk along the railway track whenever I could. Today, Instagram has changed the street into one of the most Instagrammable spots in Hanoi.

In this blog post, let's delve into the fascinating history, allure, and the controversy surrounding Hanoi's Train Street.

8 Must-Eat Local Foods In Penang, Malaysia

Penang, Malaysia

Nestled in the northwest of Malay Peninsula, Penang, often referred to as "The Pearl of the Orient," is a gem of a destination celebrated for its rich cultural heritage and incredible culinary offerings. 

 

Penang is a food lover's paradise, attracting travellers and foodies from around the world who seek to embark on a sensory journey of taste, texture, and tradition. From fragrant hawker stalls lining the bustling streets to charming heritage cafes tucked away in colonial-era shophouses, every meal serves as the gateway to a world where the past and present meld seamlessly, where culinary traditions are cherished, and where food is not just sustenance but a way of life.

In this blog, we will be sharing our 8 must-eat dishes that have captured the hearts and palates of locals and visitors. These dishes are not just a selection of foods but a reflection of the island's history, a testament to the creativity of its people, and a portal into the essence of Penang's unique identity. Join us on this journey as we savour the flavours of Penang, a food destination like no other.

Avani Sepang Goldcoast Resort: Discovering Bliss (Malaysia)

Avani Sepang Goldcoast Resort

Imagine waking up to the lullaby of gentle waves beneath your feet, as the sun's first rays cast a golden glow over an endless expanse of tranquil ocean. This is the enchanting reality of a stay at Avani Sepang Goldcoast Resort, where your escape becomes a symphony of sea and sky, a serenade of serenity, and a celebration of boundless beauty.

Avani Sepang Goldcoast Resort is a beachfront resort located in Sepang, west coast of Peninsular Malaysia. The resort has a mainland beachfront setting with lush gardens and a palm tree structure built on stilts which extends over shallow waters into the ocean. The overwater palm features 315 contemporary Polynesian-inspired rooms and villas, all with a sea view, making it a distinctive and popular destination for travelers looking for a unique and relaxing experience.

Discovering the Enchanting Charms of Mandalay, Myanmar

I love everything in Mandalay except the heat. We went there in the month of June, which is the hottest season in Myanmar. Anywhere under the shades, I felt as if I was in an Air-Con room. Welcome to Mandalay, the most cultural city in Myanmar.

Nestled in the heart of Myanmar, Mandalay is a city that beckons travellers with its rich history, cultural heritage, and captivating sights. Renowned as the last royal capital of the country, Mandalay has a distinctive allure that emanates from its regal past and the vibrant pulse of its present-day life. From majestic pagodas to bustling markets, this city offers a tapestry of experiences that will leave visitors spellbound. Join me on a photo journey as we explore the enchanting charms of Mandalay and unravel its hidden treasures.

Redang Island: The Perfect Getaway for Beach Lovers, Malaysia

Pulau Redang, Malaysia

Redang Island is a tropical paradise located off the east coast of Peninsular Malaysia in the South China Sea. The island became popular in the year 2000 because of the Hong Kong romantic comedy film, Summer Holiday, directed by Jingle Ma and starring Richie Jen and Sammi Cheng. Redang Island is part of the Terengganu Marine Park and is known for its beautiful beaches, crystal-clear waters, and diverse marine life. It is a popular destination for beach lovers, divers, and nature lovers alike and offers a range of activities such as snorkeling, scuba diving, jungle trekking, and island hopping. The island's marine ecosystem is diverse and includes species such as sea turtles, sharks, and various types of coral. As part of the marine park, the island is also protected from development and environmental damage.

8 Things to Do in Ipoh, Malaysia

Ipoh, Malaysia

Ipoh, a charming city in the state of Perak in Malaysia, is a hidden gem that offers a unique blend of history, culture and natural beauty. Often overshadowed by the more popular tourist destinations like Penang, Melaka and Kuala Lumpur in Malaysia, Ipoh has recently gained popularity as a travel destination due to its stunning limestone caves, delicious street food and rich heritage. The city is also known for its colonial-era architecture, which is well-preserved in its historic district, and its vibrant arts community, with numerous galleries and museums to explore. You can also look forward to enjoy outdoor activities such as hiking, caving, and waterfall exploring in the surrounding areas. 

Tiarasa Escapes: Sleeping In The Rainforest (Malaysia)

Tiarasa Escapes

Have you ever dreamt of sleeping in the rainforest? Let the crickets sing you a lullaby and the toads occasionally join in the fun by breaking the rhythm of the sound. And in the next morning, let the singing of the birds and the wind through the evergreen trees wake you up with that kind of esthetic energy. This is certainly a dream for every nature lover. In this post, I will share with you my first glamping experience; getting into nature and cutting myself off from the hustle and bustle of day-to-day life.

Set within the Janda Baik rainforest; Tiarasa Escapes is a safari style glamping resort that offers a captivating and luxury camping experience amidst the exquisite views of nature. Spans over 7 acres of forested land, the resort features 20 luxurious safari-style tents for the glampers & 5 fairytale treehouses for those who really want to get close to nature; all are well-equipped with modern amenities and you won't be giving up any comfort here.