by admin | Mar 16, 2025 | thailand, Travel, travel destinations, travel in asia, travel recommendations
According to a recent report from the exclusive guided luxury travel service Kensington, Thailand was the sole Southeast Asian country featured among the top 10 best places for solo travelers around the globe this year.
The report stated that nations such as India and Thailand received high rankings due to their rich historical and cultural offerings.
Thailand has long been famous for its golden pagodas, friendly locals and favorable visa policy.
Renowned for its enchanting culture, dynamic food scene, and stunning natural scenery, Thailand excels as an ideal spot for individuals traveling alone.
India topped the list, followed by Italy and Japan.
Completing the list of the top 10 solo travel destinations were Egypt, Thailand, Australia, Spain, Iceland, France, and New Zealand.
The report draws upon insights from “affluent” travelers, utilizing data from Kensington’s year 2024 reports along with findings from two external surveys carried out in collaboration with Opinium Research and Dig Insight.
by admin | Mar 15, 2025 | asia, culture, Travel, travel destinations, travel recommendations
Japan and South Korea continue to be favored getaways particularly for Filipinos. Both of these East Asian nations are renowned for their deep-rooted cultural traditions, delectable cuisine, and picturesque landscapes.
Interestingly, online travel agency Agoda revealed in a recent survey that 84-percent of travelers are eager to discover new destinations this year.
This tendency enhances the attraction of discovering hidden gems in less-traveled areas across Japan and South Korea, providing new adventures in these popular spots, particularly for visitors who have been to these nations several occasions before.
For individuals looking for distinctive experiences far from typical tourist hubs, insurtech company Igloo recommends these off-the-beaten-path locations in Japan and South Korea. These destinations provide an excellent chance to discover something new and remarkable.
Each nation provides a mix of old-world charm and contemporary offerings that strongly appeal to Filipino tourists, who value ease of access, bustling urban centers, and activities suitable for families.
1. The Tottori Sand Dunes located in Tottori Prefecture, Japan, lie close to the Sea of Japan and just beyond downtown Tottori. These expansive dunes provide an oasis of desert scenery. Covering a distance of 16 kilometers, visitors can enjoy activities like sandboarding or riding camels here. Additionally, one can appreciate the remarkable natural formation which has taken millennia to develop through wind action carrying river sands from the Sendaigawa River onto the coastline. For more artistic displays, head nearby to the Sand Museum where you can see detailed sand art created by renowned global sculptors.
2. Shirakami Sanchi, located within Aomori and Akita Prefectures in Japan, is recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage site. This untouched woodland features towering ancient beeches, cascading waterfalls like Anmon Falls, and tranquil hiking paths. Believed to have stood for approximately 8,000 years, this primeval forest reportedly served as an inspirational backdrop for Hayao Miyazaki’s animated film “Princess Mononoke” from 1997. To experience serenity, you can wander around these majestic falls or reach the summit of Mount Shirakami for panoramic vistas.
3. Hahoe Folk Village, Andong, South Korea: Travel back through history as you explore Hahoe Folk Village, recognized by UNESCO for maintaining ancient Korean traditions with its classic hanok dwellings. Situated in Andong, this vibrant open-air museum provides insight into the customs of the Joseon Dynasty era. Be sure not to overlook their captivating mask dances and relish genuine Andong jjimdak, an aromatic steamed chicken delicacy.
4. Oedo Botania, Geoje Island, South KoreaThis hidden paradise is a marine botanical garden on Geoje Island. Featuring European-style terraces, lush gardens, and panoramic sea views, Oedo Botania feels like a dream. Accessible by ferry, it’s a serene escape perfect for nature lovers and photography enthusiasts.
5. Damyang Bamboo Forest, Damyang, South KoreaImmerse yourself in the verdant expanse of Damyang Bamboo Forest, famously called Juknokwon. Here you can meander along serene trails flanked by soaring stalks of bamboo, creating an idyllic setting for relaxed strolls. Known for its culinary delights inspired by bamboo, this location invites visitors to savor specialties like bamboo rice and bamboo-infused ice cream, perfect treats for enthusiasts of gourmet experiences.
How to journey safely and with flair
The charm of lesser-known spots stems from their capacity to provide an alternative experience—escaping typical touristic throngs and diving into pristine landscapes and authentic traditions. Discovering these locations can feel akin to revealing a clandestine treasure, rendering each instant uniquely special and unforgettable. Picture yourself perched at the peak of the Tottori Sand Dunes, basking in the vastness of this desert oasis, or meandering along the serene trails of Namiseom Island, enveloped by the vivid hues of fall foliage.
The timing is crucial when you visit these lesser-known treasures. Going during the low season lets travelers enjoy the locations at their calmest moments—be it strolling through Shirakami Sanchi’s untouched paths or wandering around Oedo Botania’s verdant grounds sans the usual throngs of tourists. This way, individuals can get plenty of opportunity to immerse themselves fully in the ambiance and genuinely bond with nature.
Getting to these locations frequently turns into quite an expedition, whether you’re enjoying picturesque ferry trips or navigating twisty bus routes; this makes your voyage an integral aspect of the outing. It’s wise to scout out transport alternatives beforehand for a more seamless excursion, plus utilizing local travel passes might cut down on expenses as well as reduce travel duration.
To fully enjoy these places, immerse yourself in the local lifestyle. Interact with residents, listen to their tales, and relish distinctive foods such as Andong jjimdak or specialities from Tottori Prefecture. A basic greeting in either Japanese or Korean could lead to heartfelt talks and cherished moments.
When you’re organizing your journey, keep in mind that lesser-known spots might present certain difficulties like being far-flung or having sparse amenities. That’s why all-encompassing travel insurance plays a crucial role. Created together with GCash and Malayan Insurance, Travel Master provides safeguards against personal injuries, delayed flights, missing baggage, health crises, and also includes protection from Covid-19 related issues.
Discovering secret spots isn’t merely about visiting different locations; it’s about crafting distinct recollections and encountering the globe with a sense of individuality and awe. Begin your preparations now and allow lesser-trodden paths to guide you towards indelible moments.
by admin | Mar 15, 2025 | dining, food and drink, restaurants, vegetables, vegetarian food
Hanoi provides a varied array of vegetarian eateries, spanning from laid-back buffet-style places to high-end gourmet spots, ideal for individuals looking for conscious dining options.
The suggested vegetarian eateries in Hanoi have been chosen due to their widespread appeal and significant patronage particularly during lunar festivals and the New Year period. This compilation encompasses an array of choices, ranging from laid-back spots to more refined establishments for dining.
Sadhu – Uu Dam Chay – Co Dam
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The dining area located on the second floor of Sadhu Ly Thuong Kiet. The photo is provided courtesy of Sadhu.
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The restaurant chain comprises five venues, specializing in upscale dining experiences and meticulously crafted interior designs situated in key areas of Hanoi.
Sadhu provides a table-service buffet, whereas Uu Dam and Co Dam offer à la carte and fixed menu options. Each of these eateries emphasizes vegetarian cuisine that is both straightforward and sophisticated in presentation.
Sadhu Buffet Chay:
– Lotte Mall West Lake (3rd Floor) – 272 Vo Chi Cong Street, Tay Ho District
– Udic Complex, No. 4 Hoang Dao Thuy Street, Cau Giay District
– 87 Ly Thuong Kiet Street, Hoan Kiem District
The buffet cost is VND285,000 ($11) per person.
Uu Dam Chay:
– 55 Nguyen Du Street, Hoan Kiem District
– Pricing begins at VND400,000 ($15.70) per individual
Co Dam Chay:
– 68 Tran Hung Dao Street, Hoan Kiem District
– The prices begin at VND700,000 ($27) per individual
La Vegarie
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A eating area at La Vegarie. Photo provided by La Vegarie.
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Situated in a compact area in downtown Hanoi, La Vegarie provides a serene ambiance, making its balcony the perfect place for dining.
The eatery offers Western-style vegan dishes, drawing inspiration from French, Italian, and Indian cuisines. Certain sauces are made using secret recipes you won’t find anywhere else.
– Location: 4 Trang Thi Street, Hoan Kiem District.
– Prices start at VND400,000 ($15) per person
Veggie Castle
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Visitors can savor a variety of plant-based meals at Veggie Castle. The image is provided courtesy of Veggie Castle.
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Established in 2018, Veggie Castle is a plant-based buffet restaurant offering lunches and dinners featuring a changing selection of dishes influenced by Vietnamese homemade cuisine and global recipes.
The eatery has four distinct locations:
– 7 Yen Ninh, Ba Dinh District.
– Number 19, Lane 275, Au Co Road, Tay Ho District
– 38 Ngọc Khánh Street, Ba Đình District
– Number 29, Lane 2, Tran Kim Xuyen Street, Cau Giay District.
– The buffet cost is VND90,000 ($3.50) per individual.
Dana Vegan House
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At Dana Vegan, enjoy a vegan spread with options like soups, salads, and a crafted beverage. The image is provided by Dana.
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Located in a restored 100-year-old house, Dana Vegan House is designed with a rice granary theme, featuring a roof made from
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Paper, a substance made from tree bark.
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tree.
In Hinduism, Jainism, and Sikhism, Dana embodies generosity and compassion. The eatery adheres to the “Joyful Actions – Joyful Meals” principle, advocating for plant-based cuisine as a means to create a more compassionate planet.
– Location: 12 Dong Thai Street, Hoan Kiem District.
– Prices start at VND250,000 ($9.80) per person.
Chay Vi Lai
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A salad dish adorned with mushrooms and cashews. Photo courtesy of Vi Lai.
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The three-level Vi Lai eatery offers a distinct concept for every floor and can seat as many as 130 diners. Its architecture embodies the recurring patterns of time, serenity, and coexistence with the natural world.
Vi Lai, meaning “future” or “what is yet to come”, embodies a philosophy of reunion, kindness, and the belief that good deeds bring blessings.
– Location: 177 Bui Thi Xuan Street, Hai Ba Trung District.
– Prices start at VND300,000 ($11.70) per person.
Loving Hut
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The menu features a wide array of vegan options. Picture provided by Loving Hut.
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Hanoi’s pioneering 100% vegan restaurant, Loving Hut, is part of an international franchise present in over 60 nations. This establishment aims to provide a serene ambiance featuring buffet stations and rotating selections that emphasize the natural tastes of fresh produce.
The restaurant has three locations in Hanoi:
– 147 Au Co Street, Tay Ho District.
– Number 10, Lane 121, Chua Lang Street, Dong Da District.
– 9 Dang Tat Street, Ba Dinh District.
The buffet cost is VND100,000 ($3.90) per individual.
Vegetarian eateries typically see heavy traffic on full moon days (the 15th of each lunar month), the start of the lunar month, and around Lunar New Year. It’s advisable to make reservations ahead of time.
by admin | Mar 15, 2025 | artwork, monuments, religion, vietnam, world
The 20-meter-high Maitreya Buddha statue located in the Mekong Delta has earned recognition from the UK-based travel publication Wanderlust as one of the globe’s most astounding colossal Buddha statues.
One of the most prominent features of Vinh Trang Pagoda located on Nguyen Trung Truc Street in My Tho City, within Tien Giang Province, is a massive 250-ton statue.
The monument was built using reinforced concrete and was unveiled in 2010, serving as an emblem of joy and wealth according to Buddhist principles.
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The Maitreya Buddha statue at Vinh Trang Pagoda is positioned above a platform and encircled by lush vegetation. Image courtesy of VnExpress/Tran Quynh
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The Vinh Trang Pagoda is among the earliest religious sites in southern Vietnam, established during the middle of the 19th century.
The architecture of the pagoda combines aspects from French, Roman, Khmer, Chinese, and Vietnamese styles.
In 1984, it was designated as a National Historic Site by the Vietnamese Ministry of Culture, Sports, and Tourism.
The notable Buddha statues highlighted in the Wanderlust list can be found in Bhutan, Mainland China, Japan, South Korea, Sri Lanka, Taiwan, and Thailand.
by admin | Mar 14, 2025 | cuisine, culinary arts, food and drink, food culture, recipes
Lifehack My ID
– Keripik tahu adalah salah satu cemilan favorit bagi sebagian besar penduduk Indonesia.
Ketaninya yang garing di luar namun tak keras dan masih lembut di bagian dalam menjadikannya camilan yang sangat memancing selera.
Terlebih lagi apabila disajikan bersama bumbu yang pedas ataupun manis, rasa makanannya akan menjadi lebih lezat. Hidangan ini juga cocok untuk disantap pada waktu perayaan Idul Fitri.
Untuk kamu yang suka menyantap tahu goreng keripik, sebenarnya memasaknya di dapurmu sendiri cukup sederhana. Lebih dari itu, ini juga dapat menjadi bisnis yang menjanjikan.
Menggunakan bumbu dasar seperti bawang putih bubuk, garam, kaldu instan, serta lada, kamu dapat menghidangkan tahu goreng crispy yang gurih dan enak.
Resep tahu krispi
Kudapan tahu krupuk ini pas dijadikan pendamping teh atau cemilan ketika nonton televisi. Hanya dengan menggunakan tiga komponen pokok, Anda bisa menghidangkannya.
Bahan:
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Tahu secukupnya
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5 sdm tepung terigu
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1 sdm tepung maizena
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Garam dan penyedap (opsional)
Resep membuat tahu goreng keriput yang lezat dan tidak keras
Setelah persiapan bahan selesai, ikuti langkah-langkah di bawah ini untuk membuat tahu goreng crispy yang lezat dan tidak keras:
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Celupkan tahu dalam air bercampur garam untuk beberapa saat sehingga rasanya menjadi lebih asin.
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Gabungkan tepung terigu, tepung maizena, garam, serta penyedap rasa ke dalam sebuah mangkuk.
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Masukan tahu yang sudah dicelupkan ke dalam adonan tepung. Pastikan tahu tertutup merata dengan campuran tersebut.
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Goreng kacang kedelai di dalam minyak yang sudah dipanaskan dengan api sedang sampai memiliki warna kuning kecoklatan serta tekstur yang garing.
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Selanjutnya, untuk melengkapi hidangan tersebut, Anda dapat menghidangkan tahu goreng crispy bersama saus balado atau bumbu pilihan lain yang disukai.
Saran untuk mendapatkan keripik yang sempurna
Agar hasil tahu krispi lebih maksimal, berikut beberapa tips yang bisa Anda coba:
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Celupkan tahu ke dalam campuran air garam dan penyedap sekitar 10 menit supaya berasa lebih lezat.
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Apabila menginginkan hasil coating yang lebih tebal dan garing, ulangi langkah pencelupan tepung hingga dua kali.
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Pastikan menggunakan jumlah minyak yang memadai dan pastika minyak telah mencapai suhu panas sebelum proses penggorengan dilakukan.
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Jangan segera mencampurkan tahu ketika pertama kali dimasukkan ke dalam minyak. Mari tunggu sebentar sampai adonan menjadi keras, setelah itu baru dikocok secara perlahan untuk mencegah hancurnya.
Sederhana kan? Menggunakan bahan dasar yang sederhana dan langkah-langkah yang mudah, Anda dapat menyantap tahu goreng crispy seperti penjual keliling di rumah Anda sendiri.
