Arban Hotel - Best 3 Star Hotel in City Centre of Busan(Seoul)

When Singaporeans head to Seoul, they usually consider visiting Busan or/and Jeju as well. I've been to Korea multiple times and this was my first time in Busan. My family took a train from Seoul to this popular tourist destination that's best known for Haeundae Beach and Jagalchi Market. For our accommodation, we chose Arban Hotel which is centrally located. It's surrounded by shops and convenience stores, so that's a bonus. 

LeVeL33 - Value-For-Money Executive Set Lunch at World's Highest Urban Microbrewery

 

Perched on level 33(of course) of MBFC, LeVeL 33 is the world's highest microbrewery. Setting up of this place was a real tough job because the giant tanks required for the brewing of the beer couldn't fit into the elevators. Imagine the amount of work needed to lift numerous tanks up by cranes to the 33rd floor! Talk about dedication! Apart from brewing their own beer, the brewery does pretty solid food, and might possibly be best known for its spectacular view of the Marina bay area, where crowds most often gather for fireworks display come New Year's Eve or National Day. LeVeL33 is also known for their value-for-money Executive Set Lunch which runs from Monday to Friday.

Christmas Singapore 2020 - The Best Log Cake, Turkey, Ham & More For Takeaway & Delivery

Everyone's favourite holiday is coming right up! 2020 hasn't been the best year for most of us but there's still a happy jolly season to look forward to, right? We definitely deserve a pat, or many pats, on the back for getting through an unprecedented year. So let's pamper ourselves, and round off 2020 on a high with luxurious celebrations studded with glorious meats, decadent cakes, and elaborate cocktails, shall we? 

 

Days Hotel by Wyndham Seoul Myeongdong - Comfortable & Reasonably-Priced Hotel in Myeongdong

As we all know, most tourists choose to stay in Myeongdong when visiting Seoul as it's conveniently located and it has all the beauty and fashion stores that tourists love to shop at. Therefore, it's no surprise that there are many hotels in Myeongdong, and we are often spoilt for choice. Prices can be quite exorbitant, especially during peak seasons, as expected. My family of 4 visited Seoul in May and chose Days Hotel as it was reasonably priced and is situated just by the main road, so we could always catch a cab easily. We got 2 twin rooms, and were quite satisfied with what we got.

8 Best Sushi Omakase Restaurants in Singapore (From $68 - $250/pax)

Japanese omakase has exploded in popularity over the years. Whether its for Kaiseki, Kappo, or sushi omakase, Singaporeans are flocking to Japanese omakase restaurants more than ever before. One of the earliest omakase restaurants to have made its mark must have been Teppei. They still offer their very affordable and popular omakase which will fill you up to the brim. I remember the days where online booking wasn't such a big thing and people had to call for hours once phone reservations were opened to only be disappointed as they were already fully booked for months. 

 

Singaporeans love cheap and good stuff, but a good omakase more often than not comes with a hefty price tag. Big names such as Shinji, Shoukouwa, Oshino, and Sushi Kou offer $350 - $500 omakase and they're often fully booked and the wait for a spot to dine there might take months. If you're looking for great omakase options that are more wallet-friendly or a mid-range omakase treat for a special occasion, here are 8 restaurants you should consider!

 

SE7ENTH - Refreshed A La Carte Menu With New Creations Such As Wagyu Katsu Sando!

SE7ENTH at Oakwood Premier AMTD Singapore has just refreshed their menu with new additions! Having stayed at the luxurious property for three months, and ordered room service multiple times, I know that the head chef at SE7ENTH whips up pretty delicious dishes. Hence, I was excited to see what he has come up with. 

5-Ingredient Recipe - Fluffy, Soft & Custardy Tamagoyaki French Toast

Super fluffy, super soft, super custardy Japanese-style French toast made with just 5 ingredients??? Yes, you heard that right. It's super delicious, by the way.

Best Restaurants in Melbourne 2020

 

Melbourne is the cultural capital of Australia, and it has also been voted the most liveable city for many years running. With charming laneways studded with quaint outfits, a rich coffee culture, and a captivating food scene, Melbourne has something new or hidden every corner you turn. Having stayed here for more than 8 months, I've come to love this city more than my very own country. Dining out is definitely an expensive affair in Australia, so make sure you're spending your money at places that are worth it! 

 

Here's a list of my favourite restaurants, which are also, obviously, the best in my book.

 

Menbaka - Kyoto's Famous Fire Ramen Opens First Overseas Outlet at Cineleisure on 24 Nov!

   

Have you tried the world's first fire ramen? I did, a few years ago, at Menbakaichidai めん馬鹿一代, in Kyoto, and it was definitely one of the most unique, fun, and engaging dining experiences I've ever had!

Now, Menbaka is opening their first overseas outlet in Singapore on 24 November, at Cineleisure!

Restaurant Gaig - Delicious & Reasonably-Priced Catalan Cuisine in Singapore

 

Restaurant Gaig is not widely reviewed, and it certainly is a secret that's been very well kept. And I can totally understand why. Loyal fans will want to keep this place a secret, for sure. I am actually even hesitating, as I'm drafting this. Do I really want to hare about this hidden gem? Well, I guess, it's only right of me to share good things right?

Beyond Coffee - Forget BBT, Get These Unique Beverages in VivoCity!

Beyond Coffee is set up by a team of Singaporeans who wanted to bring something new and fresh to the beverage scene. Located in VivoCity, Beyond Coffee might not be the easiest place to locate but the walk here might just prove worth it if you're up for some refreshing beverages.

Tenya - Popular Japanese Tendon Chain Opens in Orchard Central!

 

Tenya is best known for its signature Tendon. Not only is their tendon delicious, the price point is exceptionally agreeable with our wallets. The exact recipe which is used in Japan is followed here in Singapore, so if you've loved the tendon at Tenya in Japan, or are a huge fan of tendon in general, you need to visit! I've to warn you though — the queue is crazy and the wait can go up to 2 hours. 

Table65 - Spectacular Autumn Menu With Earthy Notes, Dutch Influences & Japanese Twists

Named after our city's area code, Table65 is a one-Michelin-starred outfit helmed by Michelin-starred Dutch chef Richard van Oostenbrugg at Hotel Michael in Sentosa. A young restaurant with a Michelin star? Table65 is definitely doing something right.

Burnt Ends - More Than Deserving of Their One Michelin Star

 

It's been a dream of mine to dine at Burnt Ends, but I could never get a table. So when Miss Tam Chiak wanted to have lunch, I thought I would just try my luck again. And guess what! We scored a table for 2, just 2 days before our lunch date. I know, I know, it's crazy luck! I couldn't believe it myself. I had to double check my booking multiple times. I arrived a couple of minutes before our reservation, and was asked politely to wait outside as they got our counter seats ready. I WAS BEYOND EXCITED. There must have been a cancellation because we were moved from the bar seats to the counter! What a treat!

Pictured here is the magnificent Burnt Ends Sanger. Think extremely flavourful pulled pork packed between two pillowy-soft fluffy buns. Just look at the ratio of meat to bun! Every bite was an explosion of flavours and a party in my mouth! Too good, just too good. I have been dreaming about this, and I will definitely be back soon for this gorgeous creation, and also those Brown Butter Chocolate Chip Cookies.

Avenue 87 - New Modern Asian Restaurant on Amoy Street

Avenue 87 is the newest kid on Amoy Street, and the brainchild of 2 Singaporean boys, Glen and Alex, who were born in 1987, and who grew up in Hougang Avenue 8 and 7 respectively. Hence, the name Avenue 87 seemed more than apt. With strong culinary backgrounds and stints at reputable dining establishments, the two came together again after their last working partnership at Tippling Club years ago. Even though Glen is based in Shanghai at the moment, he and Alex managed to work seamlessly together, virtually, to craft the modern Asian menu which is inspired by familiar flavours of childhood and their favourites dishes. The duo elevates local favourites with finesse and contemporary takes, while using ingredients from local and regional partners Are you ready to go on a nostalgic journey with Avenue 87?

Brotzeit - Celebrate Oktoberfest With Hearty Rustic Fare & Imported German Beer!

Brotzeit is synonymous with value-for-money hearty German fare and iced cold German beers. With the new appointment of Chef Lorenz Raich as the group's new executive chef, one can expect the food at Brotzeit to be elevated with a touch of finesse. Chef Lorenz has always worked in Michelin-starred restaurants or five-star hotels, so he definitely knows how to take things up a notch. Chef Lorenz joined the group in August and his first project is to roll out a curated Oktoberfest menu which will run till 25th October 2020.

Guccio - Under-The-Radar Italian Restaurant in Gemmill Lane

I've heard alot about Guccio and have been meaning to try their very value-for-money weekday set lunch but haven't gotten a chance to. So I decided to pick this place as one of the venues for my birthday dinners! 

Butcher's Block - Indulge in the New Tostadas & Pizza Weekend Lunch (With Lovely Natural Wines No Less!)

Known to deliver an amazing barbecue experience, Butcher's Block is constantly keeping things fresh and interesting. Chef Remy Lefebvre brings in different meats all the time, and uses seasonal produce to whip up delicious wood-fired cuisine. You might have visited the stunning restaurant for dinner before, but it's time to see the solid outfit in its daytime glory. Decked out in the most gorgeous shade of blue, the restaurant, which rocks a totally different look in the evening, is a charming and welcoming lunch spot in the day.

La Dame de Pic - French Fine-Dining Restaurant by Three-Michelin-Starred Chef Anne Sophie Pic in Raffles Singapore

Dressed in beautiful hues and lovely shades, and basking in a warm glow and evening light, the stunning La Dame de Pic dazzled me with its beauty. The restaurant exudes such a comforting charm that makes you feel right at home, even with its fancy get-up and tableware. I knew, from the moment I stepped in, that I was in for one of the most unforgettable meals and nights of 2020, and my life. Helmed by Three-Michelin-Starred Chef Anne Sophie Pic, the only Asian outpost of her collection of restaurants has been making waves ever since its opening at the grand Raffles Hotel Singapore. Now is the prime time to visit, as they have just brandished refreshed menus that comprise exquisite summer creations crafted with the finest seasonal produce.

Raffles Courtyard - New Weekend Brunch at the Most Beautiful Brunch Spot in Town

The iconic Raffles Hotel Singapore is home to a diverse range of F&B establishments, but loyal fans of The Grand Dame will always be back at Raffles Courtyard, Tiffin Room, Long Bar and The Grand Lobby. Sitting in the middle of the luxurious property is Raffles Courtyard, a tranquil alfresco bar that promises good food, good drinks, and a good time. Open from 3pm, Raffles Courtyard welcomes streams of patrons who pop by for a tipple or two during happy hour which runs daily from 5pm to 8pm. I've actually always wondered why the space isn't open for weekend brunch because it would definitely be so very popular. Alas, Raffles Hotel has decided to show off the beautiful place in its daytime splendor.

39 Best & Prettiest Cafes that You Must Visit in Seoul (Korea)

Korea is especially well known for theme cafes and pet cafes. Cafe-hoppers are always in for a treat, as new cafes are always popping up, and options never run out. Over the years, Hongdae and Samcheong-dong have gotten exceedingly popular, especially with tourists, and new cafe enclaves have popped up in Yeonnam-dong and Yongsan to cater to the adventurous locals. Here are 39 of the best cafes that you should definitely visit when you're in Seoul. Most of these cafes are frequented by the locals, and are not infested with tourists, yet!

Ginza Sushi Ichi - Best Michelin-Starred Sushi Omakase in Singapore

One-Michelin-Starred Ginza Sushi Ichi at Singapore Marriott Tang Plaza Hotel might possibly offer the best sushi omakase in Singapore. The esteemed restaurant offers two types of omakase for dinner (starting from $220++). I usually go for sushi omakase as I'm a crazy huge fan of sushi, and I absolutely love Japanese rice! Walking into a Michelin-starred establishment, I had my expectations and I was really hoping that Ginza Sushi Ichi, an offshoot of the award-winning restaurant in Tokyo, will exceed my expectations. "Did they?" You might ask. Well, they certainly did.

The Best Food & Cafe Guide to Yeonnam-dong(Seoul)

Yeonnam-dong is where the cool kids go these days, because Hongdae and Samcheong-dong are way too packed with tourists. The influx of tourists in Hongdae led to the sprout of pretty cafes and a ton of eateries in Yeonnam-dong, which can be accessed from Hongik University Station. As you walk along the streets of Yeonnam-dong, you'll see interesting sights such as people having a picnic on the lawn, and young bands doing their stuff. It's very much like the Hongdae back in 2012, just more vibrant and lively. If you're keen on a cafe-hopping day trip to Yeonnam-dong, this article is for you!

Singapore Marriott Tang Plaza - New Staycation Packages from $298!

Marriott is one of the most established and known hotel brands, and is currently the largest hotel group in the world, after their acquisition of Starwood. The massive merger rocked the hotel world, just like how Singapore Marriott Tang Plaza has been impressing Singapore with their popular dining options, and awesome rooms for 23 years. Everyone knows that the award-winning Singapore Marriott Tang Plaza is a luxurious 5-star property, so you can be sure that your stay here will be nothing short of amazing. On top of providing the best amenities and a comfortable stay, Singapore Marriott is offering an attractive Staycation Package (from just $298!) Laze the day away in the gorgeous Premier Deluxe Room, dive into a yummy dinner at Crossroads Cafe ($25 dining credit per room, per night, per person), rise and shine to a sumptuous buffet breakfast for up to 2 pax at Marriott Cafe, enjoy complimentary parking, and check out only at 2pm.

Mangwon Market - Fewer Tourists, More Food, Loved by the Seoulites

Mangwon Market is loved by the locals. There are way fewer tourists here as compared to Gwangjang Market, or Noryangjin Market. I found the food offerings here to be more appealing than those available at the other markets. If you're thinking of coming by, this post on the must eats, or what to eat at Mangwon Market might be useful!

19 Cafes with Good Vibes and the Best Coffee in Melbourne

If you're a coffee-lover, like me, you'd be no stranger to names such as Nylon, Liberty, and Sarnies. I love my lattes rich, robust, creamy, smooth, and with as little sourness or acidity, and bitterness as possible. Hence, my all-time favourite coffee place in Singapore is Nylon. I used to love Assembly Coffee, and Pacamara too. I travelled to Melbourne for 3 weeks recently, and visited a total of 21 cafes - including famous coffee houses such as Market Lane Coffee, Industry Beans, and Manchester Press. Here are 15 gorgeous cafes that brew awesome coffee. And if you love Nylon, Liberty, or Sarnies, I'm confident that you'll love the coffee at these cafes too.

Tateyama Kurobe Alpine Route - Amazing Snow Wall in Japan

The Tateyama Kurobe Alpine Route, which is accessible from different prefectures, is known as the “Roof of Japan”. The entire route is 90km long, and it's not open throughout the year. There are many beautiful and breathtaking sights along the way. You can even stay at one of the hotels, if you're interested. In April, the roads up Mount Tateyama(which experiences some of the heaviest snowfalls in the world) are cleared and a snow canyon is, hence, formed. The majestic snow wall, which draws thousands of visitors who are willing to brave the long journey, is only open from mid April to mid June. Our journey from Takayama to the snow canyon took about 5 hours, and involved train rides, cable car rides and bus rides. The route closes pretty early so be sure to get here as early as possible so that you can spend ample time here.

(CLOSED) Narikura - Best Tonkatsu in Tokyo (Be Prepared to Queue!)

Tokyo is home to tons of famous restaurants and is especially known for awesome sushi, addictive ramen, and fresh sashimi. But don't you come to Tokyo and not dine at Bib Gourmand awardee Narikura! I've always been a huge fan of tonkatsu, and I frequent Tonkatsu by Ma Maison in Singapore quite a fair bit. But honestly, Tonkatsu by Ma Maison has nothing on Narikura.

Shinjuku Kappo Nakajima - Traditional Japanese Dinner at the "Cheapest" Michelin-Starred Restaurant in Tokyo

Have been dying to dine here ever since I heard that it's the cheapest One-Michelin-Starred establishment in Tokyo. Everyone raves about their sardine lunch sets which are insanely affordable. Because I didn't do my research properly, I made a booking here for dinner, thinking that the sardine sets will be available too. Unfortunately, the sardine sets are only available during lunch and the queues are crazy everyday. So, I unknowingly booked myself a traditional Japanese dinner at this fine-dining restaurant.

Hair Removal Treatment (IPL vs SHR vs Laser) : Singapore vs Melbourne

IPL vs SHR vs Laser 
I think alot of us very commonly make the mistake of saying we are going for laser hair removal. But IPL and SHR treatment are NOT laser treatments. And they're not as effective as laser treatments.


credit : https://theaestheticscentre.com/laser-hair-removal-vs-ipl/

I'll be sharing about my experiences with hair removal in this post.

3-Day Road Trip - Melbourne to Adelaide (Stopovers at Robe & Victor Harbour)

I was in Melbourne for 3 weeks, so I thought, "hey why not go on a long roadtrip, and a not-so-typical one?" So, my friend and I rented a car from Thrifty at Southern Cross and drove all the way to Adelaide, before hopping on a flight back to Melbourne. Have you any intention of doing a road trip but you wanna skip the usual Great Ocean Road drive? Well, you might wanna consider crossing states then! If driving from Melbourne to Adelaide, with stopovers at coastal towns, sounds like something you'll like to do, then bookmark this page!

Unkai Terrace - Get Above a Beautiful Sea of Clouds in Hokkaido

Cloud Walk : risonare.com 

The Unkai Terrace in Hokkaido promises a mind-blowing and breathtaking sight. Go on a gondola ride up the mountain, be prepared to arrive above a sea of moving clouds, and be treated to one of the most beautiful sights. The journey here is definitely not an easy one, but good things are worth working for, right? The terrace is only open from mid May to mid October, and I'll recommend that you go in August or September for the best possible view. The type of unkai that you'll see depends on a variety of factors such as humidity and temperature.

What to Eat in Poland - 10 Dishes You Must Try!

Little known to many is the fact that Poland has incredibly rich culinary traditions and some of the most amazing food in the world. If you're planning to visit a beautiful destination in Europe, definitely consider Poland! Come visit before the country gets too popular. Here are 10 dishes that you must try when you're in Poland!

Hitachi Seaside Park - The Most Beautiful Flower Park in Japan

Tucked away in Hitachinaka, Ibaraki, is the famous and iconic Hitachi Seaside Park that draws thousands of tourists and locals throughout the year. The park is located on the Pacific Ocean side of the Japanese coast and occupies a total area of 350 hectares. Japan experiences four seasons a year, and the Hitachi Seaside Park reflects the transition and change of season through the blooms that span the vast land. The blue flowers that you see here are called Nemophila. They appear in April and stay for about a month. The park is blanketed in a variety of colours(depending on which flower is in bloom at that moment) as the seasons come and go. If you're wondering what other flowers you can spot here, Hitachi Seaside park sees the full glory of roses, tulips, kochia, poppies, sunflowers, and more! So, you gotta be sure which flowers you wanna catch before you plan your trip!

Sushi Kimura - One-Michelin-Starred Sushi Omakase Restaurant in Singapore

One-Michelin-Starred Sushi Kimura is tucked away in a quiet corner of Palais Renaissance. The fine dining sushi restaurant focuses on Edomae-style sushi that's made with fish air-flown from Tsukiji Fish Market, sushi rice from a specific farm in Yamagata prefecture, and only premium ingredients imported from Japan.

Master Chef Tomoo Kimura, who has had stints at numerous fine-dining and Michelin-starred establishments, must be a perfectionist because he ensures that every item is made with only the finest ingredients and presented beautifully. He cooks his specially-sourced sushi rice in Hokkaido spring water, and not just any water. A master in the ageing of fish, Chef Kimura chooses to introduce fish that is rarely found on the menus of Japanese restaurants in Singapore. The amiable chef attends to his guests with a big bright smile and explains every dish succinctly.

17 Must Eats in Taipei - The Best Food You Can't Miss!

Two weeks in Taipei saw me put on a few pounds but its true that you just can't stop eating because everything looks and tastes so good! So here's a short guide to the must eats in Taipei!

Polish-Inspired Fish Salad - Simple Recipe that can be Whipped Up in 20 Minutes!

 
My trip to Poland was truly eye-opening. Apart from being exposed to Polish cuisine, and learning about their produce, I had a small glimpse of how beautiful the country really is. I attended a culinary workshop by Chef Malgorzata Pindych at Baccaro Studio in Lødz, and the theme was regional cuisine focused on zero waste! Our party was divided into groups which were tasked to prepare a dish each. Zero waste meant that the leftover ingredients from the preparation of one dish can be used to prepare another dish! Here's a recipe that's inspired by the cured herring dish that I learnt at the workshop.

7 of the Best Cocktail Bars in Seoul

Seoul's cocktail scene is definitely one to watch. From chill hideouts, to speakeasies, Seoul promises a good time for all those in search of a delectable drink. We bring you 7 of the best cocktail bars in Seoul, and we hope that you'll enjoy the cocktails as much as we did.

Poland - Largest Exporter of Goose in the European Union & Producer of Vodka, Cheese & Honey

Poland might not be the first country that comes to mind when we talk about Europe, but the beautiful country definitely warrants a visit. Still relatively unexplored by the world, Poland has a rich history and unique culinary traditions. Poland is probably most famous for their Polish vodka, which the Polish are incredibly proud of, and with good reason. The agricultural scene also sees the production of cheese, honey, and pickles. Little known to many, Poland is actually the biggest exporter of goose in the European Union. We don't get fresh goose in Singapore, and most of us head to Hong Kong to get our fill of roast goose. But no one does Goose like Poland. If you're a huge fan of goose, like me, then you must witness the long-standing Polish way of enjoying goose!

The Best 2-Day Itinerary that You'll Need for Ibaraki(Japan)

Ibaraki might just be the most underrated prefecture in Japan. It's pretty near Tokyo (about 2 hours away) and it's easy to get here. You can choose to take a train or bus to Ibaraki. Most people visit Ibaraki for two reasons — Kairakuen (especially during plum season) and the Hitachi Seaside Park. However, there's a dog amusement park, castle ruins, Tsukuba Space Centre, Fukuroda waterfall, museums, shrines, Mount Tsukuba, and many more attractions. Ibaraki's close proximity to Tokyo allows it to be the destination of a quick day trip from Tokyo. However, if you have time, we will recommend that you spend at least 2 fulls days here. We were in Ibaraki for 2 days, and we used Mito, the capital city, as a base to explore.

Wagyumafia The Cutlet Sandwich - The First and Best Wagyu Katsu Sando in Tokyo

Wagyumafia set out to raise awareness and educate the general public, and especially those with a discerning palate, about genuine wagyu beef. Over the years, we've seen the rise of "Kobe-style" beef in America, Australian wagyu beef and more, but they're nothing like true blue wagyu from Japan. Hence, Wagyumafia's mission is definitely commendable. Situated in Nakameguro, 2-year-old Wagyumafia The Cutlet Sandwich is a small little space that has a very lean menu. They offer katsu sando (cutlet sandwiches), a couple of sides, and a selection of alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages.

Wan Hao at Singapore Marriott - Luxurious Reunion Dinner for Chinese New Year 2020

Chinese New Year is always a joyous occasion, and, no doubt, everyone's favourite holiday of the year. For me, Chinese New Year is even better when I get to celebrate it at one of my favourite Chinese restaurants in Singapore — Wan Hao at Singapore Marriott Tang Plaza Hotel. This Lunar New Year, Wan Hao is pulling out all the stops to prepare the grandest feast for you and your loved ones.

The Dempsey Cookhouse and Bar - New Weekday 3 Course Lunch for Just $42++!

The Dempsey Cookhouse and Bar has been popular since the very day they opened their doors, and for good reason. The gorgeous space is perfect for girly brunch dates, and romantic dinners — truly a venue for all occasions. Having been to The Dempsey Cookhouse and Bar when they first opened, I have fond memories of this place and even fonder memories of their Salted Caramel Icecream which, needless to say, left a lasting impression. This time round, I'm back to check out their weekday set lunch menu. Do I have to tell you that I was beyond excited?