Things To Do in Hua Hin: Hua Hin Night Market, Thailand

Friday, February 19, 2021

Hua Hin Night Market provides an effortless insight into Thailand’s lively way of life. Besides rows after rows of food carts, you will discover an overwhelming choice of handicrafts and clothes being sold here.

Read also: 10 Must-Try Chiang Mai Street Food

Things To Do in Hua Hin: Hua Hin Night Market, Thailand

Conveniently located on Dechanuchit Street, the market is only a short walk away from the town center. Vendors start filling the space at 6pm and the market closes around midnight. Due to its popularity among tourists, prices are sometimes ridiculously inflated, though haggling is possible (and encouraged).

Hua Hin night markets opens from 5pm to 1am daily

Hua Hin Night Market is a top attraction in Hua Hin

What to Eat in Hua Hin Night Market

This market makes any dining experience phenomenal thanks to the countless seafood restaurants waiting to be discovered. Each restaurant displays its freshest catch up front, tempting passersby with lobsters and tiger prawns of unimaginable sizes. Those looking to have a lighter dinner instead can indulge in a wide array of inexpensive yet delicious street snacks such as roti, spring rolls, pad thai, roasted pork, som tam and many more.

Besides food, Hua Hin Night Market is a great drinking spot too. Dotted along the streets are small bars that gives you plenty of space to people-watch comfortably, while sipping on a pint of ice-cold local beer.

Wondering what to eat at the Hua Hin Night Market? The options are endless!

A must try at Hua Hin: Thai Banana Roti - a type of sweet crispy pancake

Hua Hin Night Market makes a great casual dinner spot for both locals and visitors alike

Buy Gifts & Souvenirs at Hua Hin Night Market

Here, you can find many stalls selling sunglasses, clothes, accessories, and even traditionally embroidered silk cushion covers, but at an inflated price. Before making a purchase, be sure to ask for the "best price". You will be surprised how much you will end up saving by the end of the day.

Playful souvenirs sold at the Hua Hin Night Market

Hua Hin Night Market sells everything, from fashion items to food

Souvenirs sold at Hua Hin Night Market

Exploring Hua Hin Night Market

If you are feeling adventurous, take any turn you see and you will be led to quieter, smaller alleys that are actually an extension to the market. Though you may find similar products being sold here, you can however, benefit from the comfort of not having to push your way through the crowd. Haggling is proven to be more effective here, too.

How to Get to Hua Hin Night Market

Hua Hin Night Market is located between the Petchakasem Road and Liap Thang Rotfai or 'the railway station road'. It is approximately 400 meters north of the Hua Hin Railway Station. To get there, simply find your way to Dechanuchit Road, which is between Phetchkasem Road to Prapokklao Road.

Hua Hin Night Market

Address: Hua Hin 72, Hua Hin District, Prachuap Khiri Khan 77110, Thailand
Opening Hours: 6:00pm-12:00am (daily)

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6 Most Beautiful Mosques in Brunei Darussalam

Wednesday, February 10, 2021

Located on the island of Borneo, Brunei Darussalam is home to a few of the most beautiful mosques in Asia. Here, you can witness majestic Islamic architecture fused with traditional Malay elements splashed across the places of worship. The population of Brunei is made up of approximately 79% Muslims, 9% Christians, 7% Buddhists, while over 4% includes various indigenous religions.

Read also: Top Things to Do in Brunei Darussalam

6 Most Beautiful Mosques in Brunei Darussalam

Brunei is the first East Asian country to have adopted the Islamic Sharia law. For visitors traveling to this country, making a stop at the top mosques in the capital of Brunei, Bandar Seri Begawan is a must! Read this article to discover the most popular mosques you must see!

6 Most Beautiful Mosques in Brunei Darussalam

Masjid Omar Ali Saifuddien

The Omar Ali Saifuddien Mosque is the most prominent landmark of Bandar Seri Begawan. It is luxuriously decorated with a striking gold dome and minarets made from marble. Merging Mughal and Malay elements, the mosque features an artificial lagoon and dreamy flower garden. Within the building, you will see cascading chandeliers and carpet-covered floors.

Address: Jalan McArthur, Bandar Seri Begawan BS8711, Brunei
Opening hours: 8:30am–12pm, 1:30–3pm, 4:30–5:30pm

Masjid Omar Ali Saifuddien, Brunei

Masjid Jame’ Asr Hassanil Bolkiah

As Brunei’s Largest Mosque that was erected to honour the country’s 29th Sultan, this impressive mosque has 29 golden domes, tastefully designed gardens, enthralling fountains and soaring minarets as tall as 52 metres. It accommodates up to 5,000 worshippers at a time.

Address: Simpang 127, Bandar Seri Begawan, Brunei
Opening hours: 8am–12pm, 2–3pm

Masjid Jame’ Asr Hassanil Bolkiah, Bandar Seri Begawan

Masjid Ash-Shaliheen

This Moroccan-style mosque is located beside the Prime Minister’s Office of Brunei. It was designed by a renowned Egyptian architect named Abdel-Wahed El-Wakil. Carrying domes in gentle turquoise, it is considered to be the most beautiful mosque in Bandar Seri Begawan. Other notable features include the brass chandeliers, white Italian marble and exquisite hand-chiseled mosaic tiles that furnish the interior of the mosque.

Address: Jalan Perdana Menteri, Bandar Seri Begawan BB3913, Brunei
Opening hours: 8am–12pm, 2–3pm

Masjid Universiti Brunei Darussalam

The University Mosque of Brunei was built for local students and nearby villagers to carry out their religious duties. Completed in 1992, the mosque has a capacity to hold up to 1,800 worshippers. Its pointy brown roofs, intricately tiled archway and classic, humble design makes it a refreshing destination in Brunei.

Address: Universiti Brunei Darussalam, BE1410, Brunei
Opening hours: 8am–12pm, 2–3pm

Have you visited the most popular mosques in Brunei Darussalam?

Masjid Pengiran Muda Abdul Mateen

Located only several kilometres away from Bandar Seri Begawan in the rural district of Limau Manis, this mosque brings together modern Islamic architecture and timeless Malay elements. There are two fountains just outside the mosque, which contribute to its overall aesthetic appeal.

Address: Jalan Mulaut, Limau Manis, Brunei
Opening hours: 8am–12pm, 2–3pm

Balai Ibadat Kampung Ayer

Perhaps one of the most unique mosques in Brunei, this compact green mosque can be found in the heart of the historic settlement of Kampong Ayer, which is the most popular floating village in the country. Built above Sungai Brunei, the humble place or worship is a must-visit for visitors exploring the water village.

Address: Kampung Ayer, Bandar Seri Begawan
Opening hours: 8am–12pm, 2–3pm

We hope you find this list useful when planning for your trip to Brunei. To learn more about traveling in the country, we have a list of articles written to assist you. Click here to begin!

Happy exploring!

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Food Malaysia

Top 10 Must-Try Food In Klang, Selangor

Monday, February 8, 2021

Klang is an incredible place, and the abundance of good food is among the things that it is famous for. We hope that this list of the best food to try in Klang will inspire you to make a food trip to the former state capital of Selangor!

Read also: 8 Unique Dishes to Try in Selangor, Malaysia

Top 10 Must-Try Food In Klang, Selangor

We have gathered our contributors to create this exclusive article just for you! When visiting Klang, easily locate the best food to try and skip the tourist traps by using this list. Bring your smile and a hearty appetite when going onto a food trip to Klang.

Top 10 Must-Try Food In Klang, Selangor

The Royal Town of Klang, Selangor Darul Ehsan

Klang is a combination of an old city with pre-historic sites dated from the late World War II, and newly developed areas mushrooming with high-rise buildings. Both traditional villages and modern residences exist harmoniously here. These important background factors are defining and shaping the food culture in Klang that you see today.

Best Malay Restaurants in Klang

1. Restoran Nasi Kukus Sotong Besar, Kampung Batu Belah

This restaurant serves deep fried giant squids with fluffy, steamed rice, spicy sambal and a small bowl of gravy. The squids are prepared in a way that they are crisp on the outside and tender on the inside. Be prepared to wait as the restaurant is usually crowded with office workers during weekdays and families on the weekends.

2. Warung Pak Din, Taman Palm Grove

Bring back the memories of your childhood days with kuih-muih and hot, comforting teh tarik (‘pulled tea’) at Warung Pak Din. A popular spot for Klang-ites during teatime, it serves 28 different types of colourful kuih-muih. Located in the residential area of Taman Palm Grove Klang.

3. Kedai Hafiz Char Kuey Teow, Pusat Bandar Berkeley

Enjoy the taste of original Penang Char Kuey Teow right here in a makeshift stall located around the corner of the Berkeley roundabout. This humble place operates late in the evening serving wok fried Char Kuey Teow with fresh cockles.

4. Restoran Rojak Klang Gani, Lebuh Tapah

Rojak Klang Gani has been open since 1950 with only a few items on the menu, including its signature Rojak Klang. The original Klang favourite comes with bite-sized deep-fried kuih fritters, fried tofu, potatoes, hard-boiled egg, fresh cucumbers and grated sweet turnip. Blanched cuttlefish can be added upon request! Also try the Cendol – a popular shaved ice dessert that’s perfect for hotter days.

5. Warong Wak Shariff, Kampung Rantau Panjang

Taste the ultimate and legendary Mee Jawa that’s loved in Klang since 1972. This dish comprises yellow rice noodles with tofu, hard-boiled egg, sliced beef, bean sprouts and fried shallots drenched in a heavy and thick sweet potato broth. Red chillies and a calamansi are provided to add a kick of flavor to your food.

Popular Chinese Restaurants in Klang

6. Chong Kok Kopitiam, Jalan Stesen Klang

Indulge in the comfort of hot black coffee, roti bakar (kaya toasts), and telur separuh masak (half-boiled eggs). Nothing epitomises Malaysian breakfast better than this heavenly combination. Opened in the 1940s, Chong Kok Kopitiam has preserved the traditional, old school interior of the shop till today.

7. Kee Heong Bak Kut Teh, Taman Eng Ann

When one thinks of Klang, it’s easy to associate it with three famous words: Bak Kut Teh! There are plenty of good Bak Kut Teh restaurants in Klang, but what sets Kee Heong Bak Kut Teh apart is its divine broth. Enjoy the piping hot soup loaded with tender meat and served with fragrant rice and golden yau char kwai.

Top Indian Restaurants in Klang

8. Love Mom Restaurant, Taman Chi Liung, Klang

Here, you can find traditional Indian breakfast fares such as chapati, thosai, and their super famous appam. With a soft center with crisp sides, just one appam is enough to satisfy your tummy for a good part of the day. For lunch, go for the home-cooked chicken curry and chicken varuval for a filling meal.

Other Popular Restaurants in Klang

9. Klang Jaya Fried Chicken, Taman Klang Jaya

At KJFC (Klang Jaya Fried Chicken), the fried chicken is absolutely delicious. This roadside stall in the residential neighborhood of Taman Klang Jaya serves crispy fried chicken with the option to have it with packed nasi lemak. Complete your meal with the sweet red bean soup dessert.

10. Regent Pandan Layer Cake Shop

Thanks to social media, this cake shop has been receiving a lot of orders for its famous pandan layer cake. The iconic cake was invented by Cheng Yew Ho more than 35 years ago using basic local ingredients, including pandan leaves. Each cake comes with five alternate layers of pandan pudding and soft pandan sponge cake that’s baked fresh daily. It is best eaten chilled.

Happy exploring!

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Brunei Food Malaysia

Red & Orange Durians of Sabah, Sarawak & Brunei

The land of Borneo is the world's prime wildlife centre that's blessed with lush natural wonders. From the warm, contagious smiles of the aborigines to the mighty pristine forests, the allure of Borneo is simply endless. Here, you can also discover the most exotic and rarest fruits in Borneo, such as the wild durians that have red and orange flesh.

Read also: Top Things to Do in Brunei Darussalam

Red & Orange Durians of Sabah, Sarawak & Brunei

As you take a first glance at this unique fruit, it is easy to think how odd-looking it is. With a prickly, thorn-covered husk, the durian might even remind you of a porcupine. However, the green and thorny exterior certainly does not do justice to the soft deliciousness concealed within.

The taste of durian is an acquired one. Many hotels and public transportation in Southeast Asia have outright bans on the fruit due to its pungent, ‘offensive’ odour. Yet ironically, there are also those who wax lyrical about their love for durian, including Alfred Russel Wallace, a nineteenth-century British naturalist, who vividly described the flesh of the fruit as ‘a rich custard highly flavoured with almonds.' Love it or not, this fruit is certainly unforgettable.

Red & Orange Durians of Sabah, Sarawak & Brunei

Origin & History of Durian

It is believed that the word ‘durian’ comes from the word ‘duri’, which means thorn in the Malay language. History also points towards the fact that the durians first originated in Borneo and Sumatra. The fruits eventually found their way to Thailand and South Vietnam through the trade route of present-day Myanmar.

Today, Thailand is the number one exporter of durians, mainly to China. Neighbouring Malaysia is set to give it some serious competition. While the flesh of Thai durian is commonly yellow in colour, those rarer red and orange variations can be found in the beautiful state of Sabah and Sarawak in East Malaysia.

Durian Dalit are orange-fleshed and are grown in the wild jungles of Sabah, Sarawak and Brunei

Wild Jungle Durian: The King of Fruits in Borneo

Wild and unique, these Borneon durians are known as Durian Dalit (orange-fleshed) and Durian Sukang (red-fleshed). Their striking, aggressive colours demand a second look from curious passersby. They are known scientifically as Durio graveolens and come with red, orange and yellow flesh. This type of durians can only be found in this region, making them a must-try for visitors to Sabah, Sarawak and Brunei.

Durian Sukang: The Red Durian of Sabah

As it ripens, the husk of Durian Sukang turns into a glorious yellow. You may even go as far as to wonder if this is a by-product of synthetic colour dye. Rest assured that the vibrant hue is a magical product of nature. Both Durian Sukang and Durian Dalit are wild durians that can only be found in the remote Borneon jungles. However, there are farmers who have begun cultivating them on a small scale due to the growing demand. In Sandakan, this particular type of red durian is not planted, but found in the wild forests across the Kinabatangan river basin. Unlike normal durians which drop to the ground once fully ripe, Durian Sukang has to be manually collected from the trees by climbing.

Red wild durians are found in the jungles of Sabah

Texture, Flavor & Taste of Red Durian

How do these wild Borneon durians differ from those found in West Malaysia? Firstly, they are smaller in size. In fact, they are only as big as the palm of the hand. The flesh of the wild Borneon durians are also less dense, more bland, but still as creamy. To some, it has a smell similar to fermented wine.

Durian Sukang, with its bright red flesh, has a stronger taste and flavour compared to Durian Dalit. Many have also cautioned that it is possible to get slightly 'drunk' when too many fruits are eaten. For these reasons, it is a more popular choice among locals and foreigners, and is usually more expensive too. Despite the extravagant exterior, there are usually only two to three fruits in each Durian Sukang. In some cases, only one fruit can be found inside - which makes it even more unique. The price for Durian Sukang is approximately RM25 per kilogram, and it varies based on the volume harvested during the fruiting season.

Do you think you will enjoy the taste of red durian?

Tempoyak: An Exotic Delicacy in Sabah and Sarawak

Durian Sukang and Durian Dalit can be used to make ‘tempoyak’ which is a type of traditional condiment in East Malaysia. Unlike the variation in West Malaysia, the tempoyak here is not fermented but preserved using salt and stir-fried with bird’s eye chili, onion and oil. It is typically served with warm white rice, salt, and chilli as a meal.

How to Eat Red & Orange Jungle Durians

Across Southeast Asia, it is a common sight to see people eating mangosteens and drinking coconut water while having a durian feast. For the Chinese, it is believed that these fruits have 'cooling properties' that effectively cool down the body after having one too many ‘heaty’ durians. Fun fact: Mangosteen is known as the 'queen of the fruits' - making it ideal to enjoy both the king and queen together!

Red and orange durians can be found in local markets known as Tamu in Sabah, Sarawak and Brunei.

Where to Find Red & Orange Durians in Sabah, Sarawak & Brunei

These unique durians can be found at ‘tamu’ in the cities and rural areas of Sabah, Sarawak & Brunei. A ‘tamu’ is an open-air market where a variety of local products from farmers, fishermen, artisans, and local craftsmen are sold. Get there early as these durians sell out fast. The fruiting and peak harvest season of these durians is at the end of the year. Plan your Borneon trip accordingly so you do not miss the opportunity to try them!

For durian lovers, the unique Durian Dalit and Durian Sukang are certainly worth trying. As this is a once-in-a-lifetime experience, every visitor (even those who are repulsed by the notoriously pungent scent) is encouraged to try them as it could just be the best token of remembrance from the trip.

Despite the streak of negative sentiments and ghastly memes, it is undeniable that the king of the fruit has a special place in everyone’s heart!

Happy exploring!

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Bosnia and Herzegovina Travel

Top Things to do in Sarajevo, Bosnia and Herzegovina

Friday, February 5, 2021

While traveling in Bosnia and Herzegovina last summer, it was only a matter of course to make a stop in Sarajevo, the country's capital. Note: This article was first published in 2016.

Top Things to do in Sarajevo, Bosnia and Herzegovina

History of Sarajevo

Sarajevo is a city rich in history and religious diversity. It was where the Western and Eastern Roman Empire split, and it was also where several cultures amicably integrated. Dense and vibrant, this small city with a population of around 400,000 is a significant region where Catholicism, Islam, Orthodoxy, and Judaism has coexisted for centuries.

Ranked as one of the safest city in South Eastern Europe, Sarajevo is a pleasure to visit thanks to its friendly locals and low crime rate. This cosmopolitan capital is home to many Bosniaks, Croations, and Serbians. Travelers can benefit from the exchange rates as the country is still using the Convertible Marka (BAM).

Top Things to do in Sarajevo, Bosnia and Herzegovina

Take a Stroll through Baščaršija

Strolling through the streets and marketplace of the old town of Baščaršija (bash-char-she-yah) gave me instant memories of Istanbul, where the ambience is a blissful assortment of eastern and western elements. Being the major attraction of Sarajevo, it houses several historical buildings such as the Gazi Husrev-beg Mosque (one of the most representative Ottoman buildings in the country) and Sahat-kula (Sarajevo Clock Tower).

Streets of Baščaršija at Sarajevo Old Town

Visit the Tunnel Museum

Tunel Spasa is an underground tunnel constructed during the Siege of Sarajevo that took place during the Bosnian War. It linked the neighborhoods of Dobrinja and Butmir which had allowed food, humanitarian aids, and weaponry to be transported into the city after it was being entirely cut off by the Serbian forces.

Due to the lack of skilled manpower, the tunnel had to be dug by hand 24 hours a day with each shift lasting up to 8 hours. In return, workers were paid with one packet of cigarettes daily - a highly demanded item and a prized battering possession at that time. The construction was completed on 30 June 1993 since its commencement on 1 March 1993.

Look out for the Sarajevo Rose

Considered the most unique feature of the city, Sarajevo Rose is a concrete scar caused by the explosion of mortar shells which created a fragmentation pattern almost similar to that of rose petals. Explosion marks have been filled with red resin throughout the city to mark the spots where actual deaths caused by mortar explosions took place.

The number of Sarajevo Roses are gradually decreasing as the asphalt is being replaced. When you see one, stop for a minute to honor the casualties of war.

Sarajevo Rose
Image source: oggitomic

Head up to Žuta Tabija

Located on Jekovac Cliff, Žuta Tabija or the Yellow Bastion was built in the 18th century that was a part of the defensive wall for Vratnik to defend the city from attacks. It was also where a Ramadan cannon shoots to mark the beginning of Iftar. Today, it offers both locals and travelers a fantastic view of city and it remains as one of Sarajevo’s most popular vantage points.

Panoramic Viewpoints in Sarajevo

There are many vantage points in Sarajevo that are just a short climb away, including:

Žuta Tabija (Yellow Bastion)
Bijela Tabija (White Bastion)
Kovači
Zmajevac
Vidikovac, Mt. Trebević
Osmice
Zlatište
Hum Forest Park

Panoramic viewpoints in Sarajevo to catch the sunset

The walk to Žuta Tabija

Breathtaking view from Žuta Tabija with Avaz Twist Tower and Hum Tower in the distance

Learn About the Balkan History

For travelers with little or no knowledge of the Bosnian War, the Historical Museum of Bosnia and Herzegovina (Historijski Muzej BiH) is an excellent place to start. The museum contains more than 300,000 exhibits which allow visitors to learn about the unfortunate bloodshed that took place in the city.

Indulge in Popular Bosnian Food

The list of must-try local Bosnian food is long, but we have tried and shortlisted a few of the best dishes in this country. Highly similar to traditional Turkish and Albanian cuisines, Bosnian dishes are delicious, rich, and will leave you craving for more! Read more about the must-try local Bosnian food here.

Discover traditional Bosnian food on your trip!

Take a Stroll in Sarajevo Neighborhoods

The streets of Sarajevo are perfect for quiet evening strolls. With a map and a pair of reliable walking shoes, spending a few hours walking through the neighborhoods away from the city center has proven to be a delightful experience.

Take a stroll through the sleepy neighborhoods of Sarajevo

Visit the Martyrs' Memorial Cemetery Kovači

The Martyrs' Memorial Cemetery Kovači was built in honor of the victims of the Siege of Sarajevo, which was the longest siege of a capital city in the history of modern warfare that lasted for almost four years, with a total of 13,952 fatalities including 5,434 civilians.

Visit the Martyrs' Memorial Cemetery Kovači

Martyrs' Memorial Cemetery at Kovači, Sarajevo

Visit the Sacred Heart Cathedral

Katedrala Srca Isusova is the largest cathedral in Bosnia and Herzegovina located in the old town district. The Catholic church is built in a Neo-Gothic style with elements of Romanesque Revival. Although it suffered damages during the Siege of Sarajevo, it has been repaired ever since. It is widely regarded as the symbol of the city.

Sacred Heart Cathedral, Sarajevo

Happy traveling!

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Recipes

Loaded Chinese Sweet Potato Pancakes Recipe

Wednesday, February 3, 2021

Chinese pancakes are loved for their soft, delicate skin and chewy interior. While there are many types of pancakes out there, here’s one version that is quick and easy to make and is guaranteed to impress your guests!

Read also: Easy Black Glutinous Rice Dessert Recipe

Loaded Chinese Sweet Potato Pancakes Recipe

These delightful sweet potato pancakes are packed with a glorious surprise inside. The golden yellow filling reveals itself once you take a bite into it. Crispy, chewy crust with a smooth and luscious filling, there is just so much to love about these easy homemade sweet potato pancakes!

For this recipe, we are using the premium Beni Nagomi sweet potatoes that are imported from Japan. It is important to use high quality sweet potatoes to let the natural flavour and colour shine!

Beni Nagomi: Imported Sweet Potatoes from Japan

Beni Nagomi (極甘) is a popular Japanese sweet potato variant that is grown in Ibaraki, Japan. Using advanced techniques, these root vegetables are aged in a special temperature warehouse over a span of three months. They are then baked in infrared ovens to optimise the sweetness and flavour, which removes the need for artificial additives, flavourings or colours.

Beni Nagomi: Imported Sweet Potatoes from Japan

Health Benefits of Sweet Potatoes

Sweet potato is packed with essential nutrients, Vitamin A, vitamin C, and phytonutrients. Claimed to be one of the healthiest vegetables in the world, sweet potato is also delightfully low in calories, rich in protein and free from saturated fats. It offers a source of complex carb that fuels your body with energy, while the low-glycaemic index (GI) makes it a great food option for diabetics. Each sweet potato offers approximately 4.6 grams of dietary fibre that is crucial for keeping your digestive health in check.

While sweet potatoes are traditionally baked and eaten plain in Japan to retain their flavours, there are many ways we can incorporate these root vegetables into modern creations and leverage their delicious sweetness. Here’s one idea to get you inspired!

How to Make Sweet Potato Pancakes

The trickiest part to making these pancakes is the dough, which requires plenty of kneading, adjusting and patience. Once you have gotten over the ‘wet’ stage, you will definitely find pleasure in the rolling and frying! Sit back, relax, prepare a pot of freshly brewed Chinese tea as you indulge in these tasty pancakes where the sweet and warm molten filling explodes in your mouth and takes you by surprise!

The perfect dough requires some kneading and patience!

Beautifully golden and yellow, the Beni Nagomi sweet potatoes are the star of this recipe!

Loaded Chinese Sweet Potato Pancakes Recipe

These golden pancakes will definitely wow your guests!

These loaded sweet potato pancakes go well with a pot of tea!

Let the sweet and warm molten filling explode in your mouth!

Loaded Chinese Sweet Potato Pancakes Recipe

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Cooking time: 10 minutes
Difficulty: Easy

Ingredients

For the skin:
250g glutinous rice flour
200ml water (room temperature)
White sesame seeds

For the filling:
1 large Beni Nagomi sweet potato (approximately 250g)
3 tbsp white sugar
2 tbsp vegetable oil

Cooking Method

Steam sweet potato for 15 minutes or until soft and mushy. Remove the skin and leave to cool for a few minutes.
In a bowl, mash together warm sweet potato, sugar and vegetable oil until well combined. Leave mixture aside to cool completely.
Divide sweet potato mixture into 8 balls and pop them into the refrigerator.
To make the dough, prepare glutinous rice flour into a bowl. Add water a little at a time and mix well using a spatula until a moist, pliable dough is formed.
Divide dough into 8 pieces.
To make the pancakes, roll out individual dough and place a sweet potato ball inside. Seal the edges of the dough by rolling into a ball. Place the ball between two baking sheets and gentle roll it until thin, round and flattened.
Sprinkle the pancakes with white sesame seeds and gently press down to make sure they stick.
Set the burner on medium and fill a pan with vegetable oil. Let it heat for about 5 minutes or until hot (but not smoking).
Deep-fry the pancakes in the oil on both sides for about 3 minutes or until the skin is crispy and golden.
Serve the pancakes warm!

Happy cooking!

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Malaysia Travel

Top Attractions at Tanjung Dawai, Merbok, Kedah

Sunday, January 31, 2021

Tanjung Dawai is a small fishing village in Merbok, Kedah Darul Aman. It is located about 30 kilometres away from Sungai Petani, which is Kedah’s largest town. Besides being one of the many fishing villages found in northern Malaysia, it is also home to the country’s rare treasures and beautiful attractions.

Read also: Enjoy Fresh River Oysters at Bakau Hijau Sungai Merbok, Kedah

Top Attractions at Tanjung Dawai, Merbok, Kedah

The Fishing Village of Tanjung Dawai, Kedah

Tanjung Dawai is most popularly known for its fresh seafood produce. Many of the villagers are fishermen and they make their living off the sea. The jetty at Tanjung Dawai was built to facilitate small-scale fishing operations. In the morning, it bustles with activities as the fishermen sort out their catch of the day, hose down their boats, and catch up with each other.

Jeti Tanjung Dawai in Merbok, Kedah

Tanjung Dawai beach at Merbok

Fresh Seafood at Arked Tanjung Dawai Market

Once you have arrived at Tanjung Dawai, head over to the complex to shop for fresh and dried seafood produce. Stay on the lookout for succulent mantis prawns that will make a simple yet delicious dish when cooked with chilli and eaten with piping hot rice! You can also find Horseshoe crabs here (Ikan Belangkas) that are typically grilled or steamed with aromatic ginger. Other than that, do not miss the opportunity to buy fresh croakers (Ikan Gelama) or eeltail catfish (Ikan Sembilang). Generally, the seafood prices here depend on the supply from the catch, but are nevertheless significantly cheaper than in the cities.

Arked Tanjung Dawai, which is a seafood market opposite the jetty

Dried seafood sold at Tanjung Dawai

Sotong Cumit or dried baby squids sold at Tanjung Dawai

Assorted dried seafood sold at the complex

Arked Tanjung Dawai is a seafood market in Merbok

Buy Ikan Bilis at Tanjung Dawai

Anchovies or Ikan Bilis of all shapes and sizes are sold in this complex. They are peeled for your convenience and are available in bulk. You will also find other products such as dried, salted, and preserved fish here. Many visitors especially look forward to buying a type of fermented shrimp paste known as belacan, which is a popular local condiment in Malaysia. All of these items are neatly arranged with their prices clearly displayed.

As the prices are lower than what you would find in the city, remember to stock up on these durable dried seafood when you are here to prepare for days when you want to whip up local dishes at home!

Ikan bilis sold at Tanjung Dawai

A variety of anchovies sold at the Tanjung Dawai Arcade

Local anchovies or Ikan Bilis of Kedah

Fresh Kedah-style Keropok Lekor

If there is absolutely one thing that you have to buy at the Tanjung Dawai market, it is keropok lekor - a well-loved traditional snack in Malaysia. It is made from fish, sago flour, salt, and sugar, then moulded into thick sausages and deep-fried in hot palm oil. A sweet and spicy chilli dipping sauce is a must to go with these crispy, chewy fish crackers. For many Malaysians, keropok lekor is their favourite snack for any time of the day. It is tasty, cheap, and can easily be found!

Buy fresh keropok lekor at Tanjung Dawai

What to Eat at Tanjung Dawai, Kedah

The food you find in this village is simple yet amazing. The entire dining experience is made perfect thanks to the clean air, beautiful natural sceneries and a less hectic pace of life. Once you are done with seafood shopping, make your way to the stalls located on the ground floor of the building. Satisfy your well-worked up appetite with the mouth-watering Mee Udang, or the famous Laksa Kedah. It is a mildly spicy noodle dish prepared using dried shrimp paste, chilli and fish in an asam-flavoured gravy.

Next, quench your thirst with some fresh coconut water. Drink it directly from the fruit with a straw for a truly local experience. Do not forget to try the Ais Kacang - a uniquely Malaysian shaved ice dessert drizzled with colourful syrup, served atop a bed of kidney beans, sweetened corn, peanuts, and a scoop of ice-cream. End your meal with some local fruits or even Rojak Buah - a traditional salad of fruits and vegetables consisting of pineapples, cucumber, young mango, bean sprouts and water guava, coated evenly with a glorious mixture of fermented shrimp and chilli paste, lime juice and tamarind.

Food stalls at Arked Tanjung Dawai, Kedah

Tanjung Dawai Seafood Restaurants

There are several Chinese and halal Malay restaurants in Tanjung Dawai which serve delicious grilled fish or Ikan Bakar and other seafood dishes. You have the option to buy your own seafood from Arked Tanjung Dawai or the local fishermen, and have them cooked in the restaurants in the style and sauce of your choice.

As the sun sets, the beach starts teeming with life as restaurants open for business. It would certainly be a heavenly experience as you dig into the fresh seafood that’s been grilled to perfection, while you enjoy the soothing breeze and the stunning view in front of you. Be lulled by the gentle rolling waves as the descending sun paints the sky with a gorgeous tapestry of colours.

Restaurants open as early as 5.30am here, where ‘mixed rice’ or Nasi Campur can most commonly be found. It is a plate of white rice served with your choice of seafood, meat and vegetables. Have a good cup of coffee with your meal as you take in the view of the ocean ahead.

Visit Pantai Merdeka at Kota Kuala Muda, Kedah

Tanjung Dawai is usually busier during the weekends and holiday season. To escape the crowd, you can visit the beautiful Merdeka Beach which is famed for its unique red rock formation and a historic British World War II bunker. Merdeka Beach is accessible from Tanjung Dawai via a speed boat ride across the Merbok river. There are several hotels at Pantai Merdeka, such as the Mai Restu Chalet, Chinta Chalet and Impian Homestay.

Travel to Pantai Merdeka from Tanjung Dawai via speed boat across the Merbok river

Tanjung Dawai Resorts and Hotels

For those who are planning to stay a night at Tanjung Dawai, there are several hotels and chalets available. This would give you the opportunity to wake up at dawn, take a stroll on the beach and indulge in a hearty breakfast with the locals. Popular accommodations here include The Jerai Hill Resort and Purest Hotel Sungai Petani.

How to Get to Tanjung Dawai, Kedah

There are several ways to get from Sungai Petani to Tanjung Dawai. To arrive at the Jeti Tanjung Dawai, take the Kedah Route K1 which will then branch out of Federal Route 1 at Bedong. From here, enjoy a scenic drive along Kampung Kechik and Kampung Sungai Pial with golden paddy fields to your left and right until you reach the jetty.

Tanjung Dawai is a gem with many wonderful treasures to be discovered. From fresh seafood produce to breathtaking sunsets, this village is a glorious testament to how beautiful Malaysia is.

Don't leave Tanjung Dawai until you've gone seafood shopping!

Tanjung Dawai Jetty

Address: 135, K161, Tanjung Dawai, 08400 Merbok, Kedah
Opening hours: 8am-5pm

Happy travelling!
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