Hat Yai : Other than Shopping and Eating

Yes yes yes… Everyone has been asking me, did you not stay at Lee Garden? No shopping at the night market at Lee Garden? The kacang shop place, did you go? And the answer is no no and no.

This trip has been rather unique, instead of visiting the ever so popular and famous place (and hotel) in Hat Yai, we visited the local most visited place. I bet many of you aren’t aware – yea lah kan… asyik gi makan and shopping kat Lee Garden jer. So, let me take you to this great outdoor place called Kor Hong Mountain located approximately 20 mins from your favourite place. Click here to watch the video.

As you know (macam lah you all semua tahu kan), I kinda like to add nature ie park, zoo or any outdoorish place in my trip and this time around I visited the Kor Hong Mountain – a hang-out place for them locals. Few things that you can check-out here which is:

1. Hat Yai View Point : my favourite thus far as you can see the whole Hat Yai from here and it is so breezy.

2. Park : A great place for family, dating, boating and exercise spot. You can jog or walk from here up to the View Point on a perfectly tar-road.
3. Golden Buddha : A locals place of worship, located right on top at the view point. And you walk down you will pass by another god statue as well as a temple.

The golden Buddha or Phra Phuttha Mongkhon Maharat was built in 1999 to commemorate the 72nd birthday of His Majesty King Bhumibol Adulyadej. Apparently (only got to know after I left Hat Yai) this place is connected by a cable-car.

Next, you’ll pass by the Goddess Guan Yin Statue – Goddess Guanyin is usually referred to as the most widely beloved Buddhist Divinity. In Chinese Buddhism, Guan Yin is synonymous with the Bodhisattva Avalokitesvara, the pinnacle of mercy, compassion, kindness and love.

As you walk further down, you’ll meet the cheerful Laughing Buddha statue. Laughing Buddha represents joy, contentment, and prosperity in East Asian cultures.

Last but not least you will reach the temple, half way between the View Point and the Hat Yai Municipal Park. You can continue on foot to the park or get your car to meet you here, ample parking bay and restroom is available too.

You can easily spend an hour just lounging and enjoying the breeze kissing you chubby cheeks, and continue with a stroll/hike down where you will be greeted by the goddess and god. Do it in the evening, cause it’ll give you a perfect excuse to head to local night market for dinner.

Hat Yai Municipal Park
Hat Yai District, Songkhla
Thailand
Operating hours: 6am – 8pm daily (open for joggers)
Entrance fee: Free

AETMET 2023 Media Fam Trip is organized by Tourism Authority of Thailand in partnership with all its sponsors. #AmazingThailand #AmazingThailandKL #AmazingNewChapters #YourStoriesNeverEnd #TourismThailandKL

Khan Mak Beng: A Unique Craft and Cultural Tradition

Khan Mak Beng is a traditional ceremonial offering from some areas in Thailand as well as in Laos. Khan Mak Beng has been part of Lao tradition for centuries, representing a confluence of spirituality and respect for nature. It is believed to have originated from the ancient practice of creating offerings to appease spirits, gods, and ancestors, a practice that later intertwined with Buddhist rituals.

The Art Behind Khan Mak Beng

To create a Khan Mak Beng requires a highly skilled person, its cone-shaped structure symbolizing Mount Meru (the mythical mountain considered the center of the universe in Hindu, Buddhist, and Jain cosmology). This intricate design that was meticulous assembled is made from banana leaves and other natural materials. The structure is then built up in layers using various natural elements, including flowers, leaves, and fruits. The Khan Mak Beng is often adorned with intricate patterns and motifs that have cultural and spiritual significance, including representations of naga (males) and nagi (female – both are mythical serpents) and lotus flowers which are symbols of purity.

What is Khan Mak Beng Used For

It serves both a religious and cultural purpose in Thai and Lao society. It is used as an offering during religious ceremonies, including Boun (Lao festivals), weddings, and temple rituals. The offering is a way for devotees to make merit, a fundamental concept in Buddhism, where good deeds are believed to bring spiritual benefits in this life and the next. In temple rituals, it is offered to monks as a sign of respect and to seek blessings.

What is Khan Mak Beng Made Of
The primary material is the fruitless banana leaves, which are used to form the base and structure. Banana leaves are valued for their durability, flexibility, and their green color, which represents life and fertility.

The cone is decorated with flowers like marigolds, known for their vibrant color and association with purity and spiritual power. Other materials used in the construction of Khan Mak Beng include bamboo sticks, which provide structural support, and fruits, particularly betel nuts, represent prosperity and abundance.

When is Khan Mak Beng Used?

Khan Mak Beng is used in various religious and cultural events such as Boun Ok Phansa (End of Buddhist Lent) and Boun That Luang (That Luang Festival), weddings, welcoming a newborn, sending off someone who is leaving, or celebrating a person’s return after a long absence.

Khan Mak Beng is primarily a Buddhist offering used to gain merit and blessings reflecting variations in the cultural and religious practices of the Lao and Thai people, although similar practices might exist among other South East Asian ethnicities.

AETMET 2023 Media Fam Trip is organized by Tourism Authority of Thailand in partnership with all its sponsors. #AmazingThailand #AmazingThailandKL #AmazingNewChapters #YourStoriesNeverEnd #TourismThailandKL

Rediscovering Ayutthaya

It had been more than 15 years since my last visit to Ayutthaya, the ancient capital of Thailand, and memories of its serene temples and rich history lingered in my mind. This time, I embarked on a day trip from Bangkok, eager to witness the changes and immerse myself in the city's cultural tapestry once again.

The journey from Bangkok to Ayutthaya was a smooth ride, taking approximately 1.5 to 2 hours by minivan - of course you can also that the bus or train, whichever rocks your boat, offering a convenient and affordable travel option for travelers. Alternatively, there are also private taxis or organized tours that are readily available for those looking for a more personalized experience.

Upon arrival, I was greeted by a sight that surpassed my expectations. The transformation of Ayutthaya was a great surprise, with modern amenities seamlessly integrated into its historical landscape. From well-maintained carparks to informative signages and clean restroom facilities, the efforts to enhance the visitor experience were evident at every turn. Kudos Tourism Thailand - am in awe.

As I strolled through the ancient ruins, a sense of admiration washed over me, witnessing the ongoing restoration projects that breathed new life into all these centuries-old structures. The attention to detail showcased a profound respect for Ayutthaya's history and cultural heritage, preserving its legacy for the younger generations.

Among the notable temples I explored were Wat Chaiwatthanaram, Wat Phra Mahathat, and Wat Yai Chai Mongkhon, each offering a glimpse into Thailand's illustrious past.

Wat Chaiwatthanaram stands as a testament to Ayutthaya's architectural splendor, with its intricate spires and ornate reliefs reflecting the grandeur of the Ayutthayan era.

Operating hours : 8.30 AM - 5.00 PM
Entrance fee : 50 Baht

Wat Phra Mahathat is renowned for its iconic Buddha head entwined within the roots of a Bodhi tree (no pic taken as I have visited this site a decade ago hence I wandered to new areas), invites visitors to delve into the spiritual heart of Ayutthaya. 
Operating hours : 8.00 AM - 6.00 PM
Entrance fee : 50 Baht

At Wat Yai Chai Mongkhon, towering stupas and serene courtyards beckon travelers to explore its storied past. 
Operating hours : 8.00 AM - 6.00 PM
Entrance fee : 20 Baht

As I marveled at the architectural marvels and soaked in the tranquil ambiance of Ayutthaya, I couldn't help but share my experience with my sister -  yes I WhatsApp-ed her, eager to plan our next adventure here together. Again.

Ayutthaya has always been special to me in a way (my first trip using Bangkok as a base), its charm and the timeless allure of Thailand's cultural and heritage. Everytime I travel to Thailand, I am reminded of the connection between past and present, can't wait to revisit Ayutthaya.

Exploring Divana Virtue Spa in Bangkok

Nestled in the bustling energy of Bangkok lies a sanctuary of tranquility and rejuvenation: Divana Virtue Spa - serenity in the heart of Thailand's capital. Divana Virtue Spa stands as a testament to the country's thriving spa industry and its dedication to holistic wellness.

Thailand's spa industry is renowned worldwide for its traditional healing practices, therapeutic techniques, and warm hospitality. Rooted in ancient Thai culture and influenced by Ayurveda and Chinese medicine, Thai spas offer a unique blend of therapeutic treatments that harmonize the body, mind, and soul. From traditional Thai massages to herbal compress therapies, the spas here offer a diverse array of treatments designed to alleviate stress, promote healing, and restore balance to the body. Spa treatments not only alleviate physical tension and discomfort but also foster mental clarity, emotional well-being, and spiritual renewal.

Through a trained masseur touch, aromatherapy, and mindful relaxation techniques, spas create sacred spaces where guests can unwind, recharge, and reconnect with themselves on a deeper level. From reducing stress hormones to improving circulation and promoting better sleep, the benefits of regular spa treatments are far-reaching.

Divana Virtue Spa stands out as a true gem in the vibrant city of Bangkok. Rooted in Thai heritage and infused with elegance, Divana Virtue Spa offers haven of tranquility where guests like me can escape the chaos of city life and embark on a journey of holistic healing.

What sets Divana Virtue Spa apart is its unwavering commitment to excellence in every aspect of the spa experience. From the moment guests step through its doors, they are enveloped in a sense of serenity and luxury that permeates every corner of the spa.

Divana Virtue Spa boasts a range of world-class facilities and amenities designed to indulge the senses and soothe the soul. From the Thai-ambience treatment rooms adorned with aromatic scents adn sound, to tranquil relaxation lounges and steam rooms, every aspect of the spa is meticulously crafted to provide guests with an unparalleled experience of comfort and relaxation.

Divana Virtue Spa Bangkok offers a diverse range of rejuvenating spa experiences, each designed to invigorate the body, calm the mind, and soothe the soul. Among their exceptional packages are the Ayurvedic Rose Glamour, the Super Detox Hot Stone Retreat, and the Wildflower Compress treatment.

Ayurvedic Rose Glamour
This luxurious package draws inspiration from ancient Ayurvedic practices, incorporating the timeless essence of roses. The Ayurvedic Rose Glamour treatment at Divana Virtue Spa begins with a gentle exfoliation using rose petals and essential oils, followed by a soothing massage aimed at restoring harmony and vitality to the body.

Super Detox Hot Stone Retreat
The Super Detox Hot Stone Retreat is designed to cleanse and revitalize the body from within. This treatment is enhanced with detoxifying ingredients and skilled massage techniques aimed at releasing toxins and improving circulation.

Wildflower Compress
The Wildflower Compress treatment at Divana Virtue Spa offers a holistic approach to wellness. This signature package features a unique blend of indigenous wildflowers, each chosen for its therapeutic properties and aromatic fragrance. The compresses, infused with herbal essences, are gently applied to the body in a rhythmic motion, releasing tension and promoting deep relaxation. 

Divana Virtue Spa also curates a selection of premium spa products made from the finest natural ingredients, sourced locally and internationally. From organic botanical extracts to therapeutic essential oils, each product is carefully chosen to enhance the efficacy and sensory experience of every treatment.

In a city known for its frantic pace and energy, Divana Virtue Spa offers a sanctuary where guests can escape the chaos of city life. It sets the standard for luxury and relaxation in the heart of Bangkok. Whether you seek solace from the stresses of daily life or simply wish to indulge in a moment of self-care, Divana Virtue Spa invites you to embark on a journey of holistic wellness and renewal unlike any other.

The Rise of Inside Flow Yoga and the Flourishing Wellness Industry in Bangkok

In the hustle and bustle Bangkok, where the pace of life often move at lightning speed, the wellness industry has emerged as a beacon of light in balancing the tranquility of its people. Among the endless wellness offerings in this industry, yoga stands out as a practice that promotes physical health, mental well-being and spiritual harmony - all in one. Within this diverse landscape of yoga styles or types in Bangkok, Inside Flow Yoga has emerged as a prominent choice for those seeking holistic wellness.

Inside Flow Yoga: A Journey to Inner Harmony
Inside Flow Yoga is a dynamic form of yoga that seamlessly blends movement with breath, creating a fluid and meditative practice that challenges the body and calms the mind. Originating in Germany, Inside Flow Yoga was founded by the visionary yoga instructor, Young Ho Kim. With his background in martial arts and dance, Kim infuses his teachings with a unique blend of technics, creating a style that resonates deeply with wellness/yoga practitioner around the world.

Inside Flow Yoga in Bangkok: A Sanctuary of Serenity
Inside Flow Yoga found its way to the spiritual streets of Bangkok few years back, charming the city's yoga community with its innovative approach. Since its establishment in Bangkok, Inside Flow Yoga has garnered a strong following, drawing practitioners from all walks of life who seek the transformative power of yoga.

In February 2024, Inside Flow Yoga enthusiasts in Bangkok were treated to a special event that brought together practitioners and trainers for an immersive experience of movement, music, and mindfulness. The event served as a celebration of community and connection, offering participants an opportunity to deepen their practice and forge new friendships within the yoga community of Bangkok.

Expanding Horizons: Inside Flow Yoga in Pattaya
Building upon its success in Bangkok, Inside Flow Yoga is set to expand its presence to the picturesque coastal city of Pattaya end 2024. With its stunning beaches and tranquil atmosphere, Pattaya provides an ideal backdrop for those seeking to reconnect with themselves through the practice of yoga. The upcoming Inside Flow Yoga event in Pattaya promises to be a gathering of like-minded souls, united in their quest for inner peace and physical vitality.

The Future of Wellness in Thailand: Nurturing Body, Mind, and Spirit
As the wellness industry in Thailand continues to evolve, it is poised to flourish and sustain in the years to come. With an increasing awareness of the importance of holistic health and well-being, more individuals are turning to practices like yoga as a means of self-care and self-discovery. The rich tapestry of Thai culture, this provides a good ground for the wellness industry growth, offering a wealth of traditional practices that complement modern approaches to health and wellness.

In a fast-paced world where stress and anxiety often seem to reign, it is known that the rise of the wellness industry represents a powerful counterbalance, offering a sanctuary of serenity amidst the chaos of daily life (work life balance of some sort). Whether through yoga, meditation, or other holistic activities, the pursuit of wellness happiness is not just a trend but a fundamental human-need-acknowledgment of our desire to live lives that are balanced, meaningful, and full of vitality.

Inside Flow Yoga stands as a shining example of the transformative power of yoga, offering practitioners in Bangkok and beyond a pathway to greater health, happiness, and of course - harmony. As the wellness industry in Thailand continues to thrive, it is my hope that more individuals discover the joy and fulfillment that comes from nurturing body, mind, and spirit in equal measure from Inside Flow Yoga.

Palmierra 28, KL | A Instagrammable Iftar spot

LOVE IT! LOVE IT! LOVE IT!
I kept saying I want to talk to the owner Yaya, so many questions running in my mind.
Why Palmierra?
What does it stands for?
How old is the restaurant?
What inspired her to open a restaurant?
And the most important question of all…
Who is her ID?
This is what usually happens when I can excited over something good.

Love the vibe, love the energy and love the idea. You guys have to come lah, be it Ramadan or otherwise, wajib dating (dating pun ok) and (make sure) pakai cantik-cantik, kay! Keyword : Instagrammable.

Just my luck to be able to check-out this place and sample their upcoming Ramadan buffet set. Mind you, this is a restaurant and yet they are able to assemble 60 dishes+drinks for their guests, and fret not my friends… as I will share what they have and my top 3 pick. Aci tak….

Kerabu spread – kerabu mangga as usually will be everyone’s top pick. Who can resist such contradicting taste that explode vibrant of flavour in our mouth – sweet, sour, salty and that umami flavour all at once.

Paru belado – remembering Ujang famous ‘Aku Budak Minang’ book, belado babe! Anything belado will always ONZ in my book. Nasib rasanya betul-betul ONZ.

Arrays of kuih – Koci. Rasa semua cukup. Cuns.

Udang masak sambal – This is the ONLY one I couldn’t find where the lauk station is, but I kept seeing it on everyone’s plate. I sincerely believe due to my height challenge, the delicious lauk udang perpetually being blocked by other media friends. Sampai ke sudah tak rasa, dengar cite sedap. I believe them!

Singgang – This is the most rarestest dish cause I rarely see singgang being one of the dishes due Ramadan buffet or any buffet for that matter. I personally feel it is one of those dish that should be in a buffet line as it is simple and light for buka puasa – not overwhelming.

Choices of masak lemak – Like seriously, pick your choice (Hint : They also have lala masak lemak cili api). InshaAllah tak kecewa.

Aside from the above mentioned, they do have the usual satay, ikan bakar, char kueh teow, sup tulang (I heard it is one of their highlight as well), English section such as ayam buttermilk, mac and cheese, fried calamari, fries and many more.

Ahh…. Next we talk about drinks. They serves teh tarik and kopi panas, on top of the air balang such as sirap, air asam boi and a few others. Air kosong pun ada, not to worry. Psst… Air asam boi dia sedap (my favourite of all time!)

If you wanted something different for Ramadan Iftar and bored of hotel buffet, you can always come here.  Especially if you happen to stuck in KL after office, this will be an ideal place to feast your hungry tummy

Salam Ramadan.

Iftar at Pasar Baru & Ramada - Le Meridien, PJ

Never realised there’s a Le Meridien in PJ until Miera told me ‘at Paradigm Mall’ so she said. Apa lagi, I head there to join her and sample Iftar buffet that they will be offering come Ramadan month.

Le Meridien did it in a very unique way as they offer 2 area/concept for Ramadan Iftar – Ramadan Bazaar at Pekan Baru Coffee House and Ramada at their Grand Ballroom. And guess what, I get to try both spread recently and I have to say that Le Meridien outdo themselves this time around. Their spread was unlike many others, few was unique to Le Meridien (until I see one that can outdo them that is, ahaks).

 
Let’s start with why I said theirs was unique…

A must have dish will be ‘kerabu’ and the spread that they have was vast (well, at least to me) – ranging from kerabu kacang botol isi kelapa (favourite), kerabu limau bali udang kering, kerabu kaki ayam kacang panggang, kerabu maggi ala Thai and many more. Impressive huh… and this is just the ‘salad’ starter.

Another must have will be the ‘belangas’ of ‘gulai kawah’, from gulai daging umbut pisang (the umbut pisang is not that common) to gulai nangka dengan ikan bilis, to rendang Minang and Ekor Asam Pedas to name a few. These goes well with hot white rice, and what us Malay will say – makan panas-panas masa Tengah lapar. Syok!

Sup Gearbox! You heard me right alright! It is also available here.

I tried the Hydrabadi Rice as I saw plates having this, my first impression was full strong taste of spices that pairs well with lamb varuval (another one of my favourite dish), lala goreng kari and ayam golek (you must must try the ayam golek sambal, sumpah sedap!!!).

After eating the so called ‘Kepong’ claypot yee mee (ala-carte), I was too full to try the mee ketam.

Then there’s the Chinese selection that serves stir-fry black pepper chicken, wok-fry butter prawn and many more.

Of course, the dessert session is the one everyone is aiming for as the spread was amazing and simply beautiful. They even have churros station (yup! Serve live hokkay).

The western dessert showcases arrays of delectables such as chocolate éclair, pandan layer cake, strawberry mousse, crème brulee, chocolate pot de crème to name a few.

Bubur manis ie lin chi kang, pengat durian and bubur pulut hitam aside from bubur lambuk is also made available for their Ramadan guests.

11 March – 8 April, 2024
Ramadan Bazaar – Pasar Baru
RM178 nett p/pax

18 March – 8 April, 2024
Ramada -  Grand Ballroom
RM128 nett p/pax

So apa tunggu lagi, JOM!