Grace Capsule

Author: Grace

  • Everyone Loves Tokyo! But Is It a Different Experience for Other Asians?

    Everyone Loves Tokyo! But Is It a Different Experience for Other Asians?

    Tokyo, Japan

    Everyone and their mother raves about Tokyo. As someone who grew up obsessed with Totoro, can eat omakase everyday, and can spend an eternity at a hot spring, I was curious to see how Tokyo would fit me. What could go wrong? 

    Helpful Apps

    Traveling via the subway trains is the most common in Japan. Make sure to download the Suica app to use as your subway card!

    Google Maps is the best and most common way to get around. The times are accurate with Japan’s subway trains!

    Line is the most common app for communicating in Japan.

    Food

    FOOD WAS HANDS DOWN THE BEST PART OF THE TRIP. Restaurants of all different price points were extremely satisfying. You could get an onigiri (i.e., a Japanese rice ball wrapped in dried seaweed usually with meat or veggies inside) on the street, go to any ramen house (they are literally plastered everywhere in Tokyo), or find a sushi joint nearby, and most of them would have great quality and taste! However, if I really had to narrow it down, these are some places I would revisit if I went back to Tokyo (and I promise they’re not the typical recommendations you hear everywhere like Ichiran Ramen and Gyukatsu).

    1. Butagumi 

    Although you might hear about Gyukatsu the most for katsu recommendations, IT DOES NOT COMPARE TO BUTAGUMI. This restaurant is a little hole-in-the-wall but has the best and juiciest katsu in town. It’s a smaller restaurant, so not too many people can be seated. However, when I went in December 2024 on a weekday during lunchtime, there was no wait!  The katsu is unlike any other with its crisp outer skin and soft, juicy meat. It has the perfect blend of meaty and fatty. However, keep in mind that they’re strict about wearing strong-scents inside; if it’s too strong, they won’t let you in!

    1. Pacific Bake House 

    Almost daily, I would drink a matcha latte or consume something matcha-related (ice-cream, chocolate, etc.). They were mostly all satisfactory, but Pacific Bake House took their matcha drink to a whole other level. They have a menu with seasonal drinks as well, and it was sooo tempting to try. However, I knew they were famous for their “Strawberry Matcha” drink, so I stuck with that, and am so glad I did! Although, I wish I could’ve tried their other drinks too. In all honesty, I should’ve just got the Stawberry Match with another specialty drink. Their pastries also seemed really popular because it was completely sold out when I arrived in the early evening!  

    1. Sushi Onodera

    This restaurant is a bit of a splurge, but if you need to have at least one nice dinner in Tokyo, it has to be this place! They’ve received the Michel star 13 times. It’s an omakase-style with no more than probably 12 people at the bar, so make sure to make a reservation on their website! The staff is super attentive to the needs of all of the guests. The moment your drink falls below half of the cup, they will immediately refill it. The sous-chefs meticulously cut and prepare all of the ingredients with laser-focus. And the head-chef is personable and involved with the guests, bringing laughter, joy, and knowledge throughout the night. Every inch of the dish is beautifully crafted with every ingredient serving a purpose. Even the fermented ginger was so delicious that I couldn’t stop eating it although it’s only meant to cleanse your palate after each dish. If I could, I would eat omakase here every night!! 

    1. Japanese Snacks at Any Market (like 7/11, Lawson, FamilyMart, etc.)
    Variety Chocolate
    Grape Icecream
    Fruit Jellybeans

    If you don’t already know, the Japanese create snacks SO WELL. Everything from the flavor to the texture is insanely good. Usually with candy, there’s an inextricable artificial flavor that comes with it. However, they’ve somehow mastered replicating the flavors in such a refreshing and pleasurable way. In particular, their flavors that have to do with grapes (like green grapes or purple grapes) are astounding! Help yourself to any of their chocolate, gummies, jelly beans, or ice-cream. I’ve posted pictures above of some of my favorites, and my god, WOW. They were so good. I actually bought 30 bags to take home to treat my friends.

    Activities

    1. Shinjuku Gyeon National Garden

    This is an unexpected, beautiful garden in the middle of Tokyo. Surrounding the area are tall, lush trees and the calm of a flowing pond. This garden is lovely because it really changes with the season. When I went during winter, the leaves were turning orange and red making the atmosphere feel cozy. However, during other seasons like spring, there are cherry blossoms that will set a different tone– probably one of wonder and amazement!  

    1. Senshoji Temple

    There’s a lot of temples in Japan, but if there’s one to visit, it has to be the Senshoji Temple. It’s Tokyo’s oldest temple, established in 645! The temple here is on top of a cliff, overlooking the city. There’s several buildings you can visit, all in different shapes. However, something else that makes this temple fun to visit are the streets surrounding it. It’s occupied by family-owned businesses selling souvenirs, treats, and more. There’s a lot to do in this region. However, it can get extremely pack, so I recommend going as early in the morning as you can!

    1. Nakamise-dori Street 

    Nakamise-dori Street is a long street enveloped by a “tunnel.” You’ll know that you arrived when you enter a building with glass ceilings. Here, you can walk around to eat and shop. They sell all kinds of goods and most of Japan’s most popular snacks. It reminded me of Turkiye’s bazaars but maybe not as hectic. 

    1. Kindal Ginza

    This might not be for everyone, but if you like consignment shopping, JAPAN IS THE PLACE TO DO IT! They sell all kinds of pre-loved luxury items for a fraction of the cost. They verify the authenticity, and the condition is almost immaculate. You can find anything from Rolex watches, designer bags, to off-the-runway pieces. I personally love finding a deal for designer items. However, I know in Japan, it’s frowned upon to buy used items. Maybe that’s why there’s so much merchandise? In American consignment shops, it’s hard to find a decent, luxury item because it’s either out-of-style or flawed. A favorite consignment shop I visited was Kindal Ginza which has multiple locations. I would go around Tokyo visiting these stores. However, if there’s a specific item you’re looking for, just search in your Google Maps app “secondhand” and the item you’re looking for (e.g., “secondhand watch”) and plenty of recommendations will populate!

    Scenery

    Japan is immensely clean, and the people are very mindful of others. It also feels extremely safe even if you’re walking alone at night. There is a beautiful harmony of city, nature, and historic buildings that truly show the development of Japan over the years. Its older buildings use bare wood with sliding doors using translucent paper as a cover. The temples are usually decorated in Japan’s iconic Irimoya roof that slopes down then curves up on the edges and glows of scarlet red. Their newest buildings are like that of most modern-day cities and can either be filled with homes or businesses. 

    Lifestyle

    Personally, as an Asian-American traveling in Japan, I don’t think their lifestyle aligned with my personality. As someone who’s aware of and experiences the differences between eastern and western culture, I felt like the social pressures in Japan were way too strong. I felt inadequate or offensive if I didn’t follow exactly as what everyone else did. At restaurants, even if I asked a simple question of wanting more of a side dish or sauce, it was clear that I was being gluttonous or rude (I’m still not quite sure which one, but I quickly learned to take what they give and NOT ASK FOR ANYTHING MORE.) There were other times where I noticed how chefs would treat Japanese natives entirely differently than other Asians. When I walked into a restaurant, it seemed like they were waiting for me to say something in Japanese, so they knew how to treat me. Otherwise, the treatment we received was a bit off. I can’t complain too much because they were still polite enough, but it didn’t seem genuine and there was a clear difference in treatment. There were a handful more instances, but overall, I felt very restricted in what I could say or do, so I just couldn’t feel truly comfortable.  


  • Turn Up In Taipei

    Turn Up In Taipei

    Taipei, Taiwan

    Boba + Hotpot + Street Food Markets = Taiwan. Right? Or so that’s what I thought. Taiwan unexpectedly boasts some of the liveliest and craziest bar scenes I’ve ever seen. Taiwan is definitely a city that’s more than meets the eye. 

    Helpful Apps

    Uber is common and easy to use in Taiwan if you want to travel by car.

    Google Maps is the best way to get around with accurate train times.

    Metro Taipei is great to use if you want to take the metro! It has all the information from routes to fare costs (but tickets will have to be purchased at the station)!

    Food

    1. Stinky Tofu

    Taipei is known for their night markets, but get ready for some intense and pungent odors! They’re known for their fish balls and especially, their stinky tofu. What is stinky tofu, you ask? It’s fermented tofu that smells like absolute farts. The Taiwanese say this dish is absolutely delicious, but to be honest, I wasn’t too much of a fan. It’s hard to get past the scent, but even afterwards, it seems to be more of an acquired taste. The texture isn’t like the silken and soft tofu; instead, it’s more texturized with various grooves and bumps throughout. On top of that, I’m not too much of a fan of tofu. However, if you are, I highly recommend trying it at least once.

    2. Raohe Night Market

    If stinky tofu is’t your style, then no need to worry because Raohe Night Market offers an assortment of dishes! Everything is available from skewered meats, sweet desserts, and finger food. The choice is yours!

    3. Xin Fu Tang

    If you’re an avid boba lover (and even if you’re not), a must-go location is Xin Fu Tang. This place is wildly popular and as of December 2024, still has super long lines! But don’t worry– it goes by super fast! As someone who grew up drinking boba almost every day, I can say that the Brown Sugar Boba here is amazing! We have this franchise in California, but it does not taste the same. It’s way better in Taiwan. The flavor tastes like a milky ice-cream, but it’s not too overly sweet! I’m also usually very picky about the boba (i.e., the brown tapioca balls at the bottom of the drink) because if it doesn’t have the right texture, it’ll ruin the drink for me. However, the boba here is perfectly chewy and adds additional sweetness to the drink.

    4. Hotpot

    Last but definitely not least, you MUST go to a hotpot restaurant. I don’t care where you go, JUST CHOOSE ANY! I would randomly go into any hotpot restaurant that I saw while roaming the town, and they never failed to satisfy my soul. The typical hotpot restaurant here will usually have a list of different broths to choose from (ranging from sweet to savory to spicy), unlimited toppings, a bar where to create your own dipping sauce, and, my favorite, a desserts bar! The desserts bar can include ice-cream, gelato, or crushed ice drinks– typically something cold to drown the heat of the hotpot.

    Activities

    1. Xingmending Shopping District 

    At the heart of Taipei is Xingmending Shopping District. Here, you’ll be exposed to bright neon lights, foreign smells, sidewalks lined with shops, and streets congested with traffic. It’s a perfect one-stop-shop for getting food, going shopping, and being immersed in Taiwan’s youthful culture. 

    1. Maokong Gondola 
    Gondola ride
    Maokong Tea House
    Famous ice-cream

    The Maokong Gondola is a bit on the outskirts of Taipei because it resides by the mountain range.  The gondola will take you to the peak of the mountain, passing by various temples and statues. The ride itself is very fun because you get a picturesque view of the mountainous terrain against the city view. You can also opt to ride a typical cable car or a glass-floored cabin! 

    Once you get to the summit, make sure to eat at the Maokong Tea House where you get a breathtaking view! Enjoy tea while you chow down on traditional Taiwanese food. Afterwards, make sure to try ice-cream at a nearby store because this will be unlike any other ice-cream you’ve tried! The ice-cream here is typically made with tea leaves; you can see spots of the tea leaves with the ice-cream. It adds a very unique flavor and aroma to the overall flavor. I was a huge fan of this! 

    1. Jiufen (AKA The “Spirited Away” town) 
    Jiufen Old Street Market
    Mount Keelung Trail

    Near the oceanside, the rainy city of Jiufen sits atop a cliff with a narrow street market for all kinds of food and shopping. It’s famous for its Old Street market where people are bustling. If you enjoy tea, I highly recommend visiting a tea shop within this market; they sell a Michel-star oolong tea that is everything you could ever want!

    This backdrop of this mystical place is frequently compared to the Hayao Miyazaki movie Spirited Away. It rains frequently throughout this city, so it’s common to have a dense fog surrounding the area. Nature truly surrounds you in this place; it feels like all of the elements are in harmony with one another. The ocean water brings calm; the crisp air fills lungs; the tree trunks bring security; and the heat and warmth is brought by its people. As much time as you spend around the busy areas, make sure to also enjoy the nature scenery by taking a walk up Mount Keelung Trail which is right by the Old Street market.

    1. Block Party (Row of Outdoor Bars)

    If you want to turn up and party, then Taipei is perfect for you! It has an unexpectedly loud and intense party scene where you could bar-hop all night. A lot of the bars are outside with anyone who’s passing by to quickly stop and get a drink from a cart. Typically, someone or some bar is blasting loud music, and many people are singing along. You’ll see a HUGE crowd of people with a drink in their hand, hanging out and having fun. If you want to participate, a good place to start is Fake Sober Taipei which is at the intersection of Songshou Road and Lane 20, Songshou Road. When you head towards this direction during a weekend evening, it’ll be impossible to miss the large crowd of people partying and having fun.

    Scenery

    Taipei 101
    Lungshan Temple

    The beauty of Taipei is that it ropes in both the old and the new. As a city that’s fast-growing and measuring up to the modern world, buildings from a few decades ago can vastly differ from with the new builds of today. Although many new buildings have been constructed, like the ostentatious Taipei 101, there are also ancient temples and older buildings all around. However,  I love that it still has its historic charm. And to have an exquisite view overlooking the city, I highly recommend going to the observation deck located on Bishan Road in the Neihu District. There’s stairs that lead up to a temple, andt the view during morning and night are both incredible! 

    Lifestyle

    The people of Taiwan were very friendly and open-minded. I met a few Taiwanese natives who were introduced by my husband’s friend who lives there. They were all very easygoing, kind, and easy to converse with. In addition, at the block parties, there would be what seemed like thousands of people on the streets hanging out. There were groups of people young and old, grungy and nerdy, loud and quiet. Everyone would be drinking and enjoying each other’s company, singing along to a Jay Chou song that was blasting from the speakers. (More information on where to find these block parties in the “activities” section above!) Overall, as a Korean-American, it was easy to blend in with the Taiwanese crowd, and I thoroughly had a great time!


  • Powderbrows/Microshading is for the Asian Ladies!

    Powderbrows/Microshading is for the Asian Ladies!

    This is for my girls (and guys) who weren’t born with eyebrows like Gigi Hadid, Cindy Crawford, or Zayn Malik. Their eyebrows are naturally full, have a distinct shape, and fill the face. Sadly, this is the complete opposite to mine. My eyebrows are naturally very fine and light in color. Therefore, in certain lighting or camera filters, it looked like my eyebrows disappeared! I would feel like Voldemart, and it was such an insecurity of mine growing up.

    I would fill in my brows every single day, but it was such a hassle. I never could find a color that really matched. Even though eyebrows are supposed to sisters and not twins, mine looked like they weren’t even related. And I can’t even begin to tell you the journey of finding the right shape for me. I wanted professional help and a permanent solution.

    Over the years, “Instagram brows” became really popular. However, it looked so unnatural because the edges were cleaned oh so perfectly using a concealer, and the shape was too crisp. This trend became so popular that people started to tattoo their eyebrows in this way– and if you love it, then hey, more power to you! However, in my opinion, these eyebrows only matched a look that’s full-glam. On the regular day-to-day with little to no make-up on, it looked strange and out-of-place. So unfortunately, this was a pass for me.

    “Intagram brows” (circa 2010s)

    Some more years passed and the microblading technique started to popularize. This is a technique where eyebrow hairs are copied using stroke patterns from the technician. However, I noticed two main issues with this style. First, in order for it to look natural, the person needs to already have a decent amount of eyebrow hair. For someone like me, the tattooed strokes would be an obvious contrast to the rest of my brows. Second, in photos, microblading looks amazing. However, when I saw it in-person, there wasn’t a single time where I thought it actually looked good. (However, please keep in mind that I’m mostly surrounded by Asians. Therefore, I realized this technique does not seem to suit Asian features.) So again, this was a pass. 

    Microblading technique

    Fast forward to 2023, and I meet with a girlfriend who I’ve known since we were kids. She shares with me that she had her eyebrows tattooed a few weeks prior, and my jaws dropped to the floor. I was absolutely stunned because it looked SO natural. It really only looked like she filled in her brows using a powder or pencil. Immediately, I looked into what technique this was and where she went.

    I learned that this style of eyebrow tattoo was called “powderbrow” or “microshading” because it mimics the look of filling in brows with powder. Also, instead of using stroke-like patterns, the technician uses thousands of small dots that are placed throughout the brow. This allows for an extremely natural look because the gradient can be controlled giving the eyebrow an ombre-effect (i.e., lighter on the inner brows to darker on the edges). I also learned that this technique is much better for the skin because it causes less trauma than microblading which cuts deep into the epidermis with each stroke. This is better for the ink as it will fade cleaner overtime reducing the risk of the color changing and leaving any permanent scar. 

    Powderbrow/Microshading process

    I was TERRIFIED of getting my eyebrows tattooed because I’ve seen so many horror stories of people ending up with atrocious eyebrows. However, I was at a point where a professional’s mistake was probably better than what I usually do to my brows. And HANDS-DOWN, THIS WAS THE BEST DECISION I HAVE EVER MADE IN MY LIFE! My only regret was that I didn’t find something like this sooner! 

    The eyebrows came out so natural, and the color was perfect for my skintone. If you’re ever in Los Angeles, CA and in need of an eyebrow tattoo, I highly recommend Jina! Her instagram is @tattoo_by_jina, and she is AMAZING. She is so meticulous with her craft, and now, she’s the only person I trust.

    My first powderbrow session with Jina!

    The process will start with numbing your eyebrows. Then, you can tell her what you’re looking for (e.g., dramatic or soft arch, dark or light, etc.). She will clean up and map out your natural eyebrow shape and adjust based on your feedback. Then, she’ll find a color that suits your skin tone or hair color (up to you to decide)! And within 30-45 minutes, you’ll have new eyebrows! You can “test” it out the first month to see if there’s anything else you’d like to change. Then, within 4-6 weeks of the initial appointment, you’ll have to meet again for the final touch-up. This is where you can add any final touches on your eyebrows. 

    For me, during my first appointment, we went with the natural shape of my eyebrow. However, after wearing it around for about a month, I realized I liked an even softer look on my face. Therefore, for my touch-up appointment, we decided to make it a bit straighter. And JUST LIKE THAT, MY EYEBROWS WERE PERFECTION. It was better than anything I could’ve imagined, and I am so beyond happy with the results! I talk more about my experience in the vlog below. (:

  • Dreams are Made in Dubai (Blog with a Vlog!) 

    Dreams are Made in Dubai (Blog with a Vlog!) 

    Dubai, UAE

    What do you think of when you think of Dubai? Innovation? Luxury? Modernity? Dubai is truly an innovative city where eastern value meets western culture. The people are very welcoming, and the city is unbelievably futuristic. Dubai is a city that’s living in 2050, and the rest of the world needs to keep up with it! 

    Helpful Apps

    Uber is a fast and easy way to get around Dubai! Traveling by train through Dubai Metro works too; we purchased a ticket each time we went to the station.

    Google Maps is accurate and helpful to find your way around.

    Careem is the “everything” app in the Emirates. It includes rides, delivery, & payment.

    Food

    It’s hard to pinpoint exactly which foods were the most amazing in Dubai because it’s such a multicultural city. They have food of all different nationalities whether it’s Thailand’s Pad Thai, Chinese hotpot, or Italian pasta. I didn’t really try these dishes, so I cannot confirm whether the flavors are authentic. However, I did try various Arabic food– asking workers to serve whatever they recommended! This is a fun way to get out of your comfort zone and really immerse yourself in a new culture. Many of the Arabic dishes contained meat (especially lamb) and Middle-Eastern rice, which is typically cooked in various spices and colored yellow or orange. 

    However, I do recall that Indian food was absolutely phenomenal! This makes sense because there is a huge Indian population in Dubai. Indian cuisine was served at our hotel’s breakfast buffet, and I devoured EVERYTHING! They had an assortment of curries that were sweet or spicy or savory; soft, chewy roti that paired so well with the curry; and other side dishes that were tangy and refreshing (like yogurt). Typically, I’m not much of a breakfast person and would opt out of eating anything in the mornings. However, the Indian dishes were so delectable that I couldn’t miss the opportunity. 

    The Indian food at our hotel– looks simple but is divine!

    Activities

    Dubai is one of those places where there is something for anyone. Whether you’re young or old, nature-oriented or city-living, loves to relax or prefers to party, there are a PLETHORA of options! 

    1. Shopping

    If you like to spend the day shopping at a mall, wait until you see the malls in Dubai. It will make malls in every other country look like trash cans. The malls here are absolutely gorgeous; it’s like you’re entering a new, futuristic civilization. There are so many malls to choose from, but if there is one mall that you must visit, it is Dubai Mall. Located at the heart of downtown Dubai, it’s next to other famous landmarks like the Burk Khalifa (which is the tallest building in the world) and the picturesque Dubai Fountain. 

    If you’re heading to Dubai Mall, I recommend checking out their website to plan accordingly. These are not like regular malls! They offer other fun activities like an Aquarium & Underwater Zoo as well as an ice rink! Walking through the entire mall can easily be a full-day activity. Make sure to walk through the mall in its entirety because you’ll see that each section of the mall is designed and themed so differently. It really feels like you’re walking through a work of art! It’s hard to describe the eminence of it in words, so I tried my best to capture it in my vlog below! 

    1. Excursion to ATV Ride, Sand Surf, & Stargaze

    This is an all-day excursion that will last from morning to night! It’s exhausting, but SO worth it. In fact, it should be mandatory to partake in an excursion like this in Dubai. We booked this excursion through Viator and couldn’t be more happy with the overall process. The guide is extremely attentive and helpful; they’re knowledgeable about the entire city and able to answer any questions you might have. 

    For this excursion, we were taken to the red dunes where we could ATV ride and sandsurf in the red dunes. l was holding on for my life as I rode across the vast, mesmerizing sand. Afterwards, the group went to a camp to enjoy a BBQ buffet along with a live show of a traditional Arabic dance. There were a lot of other fun activities like camel-riding, horse-petting, and getting a beautiful henna design! 

    1. Jumeira Beach

    Jumeira Beach is an absolute spectacle famous for its man-made island in the shape of a palm tree! Fittingly, this area is known as “The Palm” and offers so many fun excursions for beach-lovers! Although I wasn’t able to go in the water, I deeply regret it because as I walked along the bridge, I noticed so many people playing in the water. 

    There was even an inflatable water park called “AquaFun”! They had an entire obstacle of inflatable toys including trampolines, slides, and so much more. I regretted so much that I didn’t bring my bathing suit on this trip. PLEASE DON’T MAKE THE MISTAKE I DID. Pack your swimsuits, sunblock, and sunglasses and head to Jumeira Beach for some fun in the water! However, as a caveat, make sure to also bring a change of clothes and/or a cover-up because institutions will deny entry if not dressed appropriately! Please be respectful and mindful of their customs.  

    1. Al Fahidi  

    For a change of pace, Al Fahidi showcases Dubai’s historic neighborhood. It’s a sharp contrast to Dubai’s modernity and innovation that it boasts everywhere else. The buildings in this neighborhood are rectangular and small; it’s made of materials like stone and soil. I love that the government preserved an area like this to highlight its historic heritage and traditional architecture. Nearby, there’s also an option to take a boat ride across Dubai Creek. This is a great and affordable option to get familiar with the old neighborhood! 

    1. Global Village and Miracle Garden

    Unfortunately, I wasn’t able to make it to Global Village due to jet lag. However, from the stories that I’ve heard, this is a must! It’s situated next to Miracle Garden, which looks like a child’s dreamland. Miracle Garden has towering shrubs that have been snipped into all sorts of animals and shapes. There’s also a world of smurfs, and you can visit them in their little town. 

    As for Global Village, it’s just like what you’d expect– a village of global cultures and cuisine. They usually open in the late afternoon (around 4PM) and will brighten the night sky with its neon, fluorescent lights. The food choices are diverse and extensive; they also offer entertainment and shows! It’s like traveling the world within a single night.

    Scenery

    Dubai is located in the Arabian Desert, but when you first get off the plane, that will be your last thought. It is incredibly scenic and lush with green grass that you’ll be questioning if the pilot landed in the correct destination. There’s beautiful flowers of all colors and assortments growing throughout the city. Gardens are maintained so well that it looks like a dreamy utopia. 

    Moreover, it is insanely clean. It’s probably one of the cleanest cities I’ve ever visited– which makes sense because the police will fine those with dirty cars! Also, given their culture, the people are very respectful of each other as well as their environment. Littering, graffiti, vagrancy and begging are all strictly prohibited leading to hefty fines or even imprisonment. 

    Lifestyle

    There’s rich and there’s wealth. Dubai is a city of wealth. It’s common to see people driving the most luxurious cars in the world or walking around wearing watches that are easily worth $500,000 USD. Due to how safe the city is, the people don’t have to worry about getting robbed! 

    Another unique quality of Dubai is that it feels much more westernized compared to other Muslim countries. In fact, even compared to other popular cities in the UAE, like Abu Dhabi, Dubai is much more lax when it comes to outerwear and etiquette. For example, I received looks of contempt when I wore a skirt in Abu Dhabi. However, in Dubai, no one seemed to mind. Since Dubai receives significantly more tourists than Abu Dhabi, the locals seem to be more comfortable with crop tops, skirts, or tank tops. 

    Moreover, I was surprised to find a lot of Koreans tourists roaming Dubai! I even got acquainted with a Korean worker at our hotel buffet. We were both flustered to see a familiar face and enjoyed each other’s company. Every morning when I went to get breakfast, we would talk to each other in Korean and share what brought us to UAE. Dubai is filled with people of all different nationalities; but it was especially comforting to see other Asians as well.

    Dubai Vlog

  • Pico-Toning & Pico-Laser for Glass Skin (with Before and After Photos!)

    Pico-Toning & Pico-Laser for Glass Skin (with Before and After Photos!)

    What is Pico-Toning & Pico-Laser?

    Pico-Toning: a non-invasive laser that is used all over the face to treat uneven skin tone for a brighter and smoother complexion. There is typically no down-time. Patients are recommended to regularly wear sunscreen and avoid actives (e.g., retinol, AHA, BHA, etc.) in their skincare. 

    Pico-Laser: a non-ablative laser that targets common skin imperfections (e.g., melasma, sun spots, acne scars, etc.) to break down the pigment and rejuvenate the skin. The lasered area will scab for several days, but once the scab falls off on its own, the area will be free of the imperfection! During this time, a cream is given by the clinic to apply every day for at least a week. Active ingredients in skincare and harsh exfoliants should be avoided. For darker or deeper skin imperfections, several treatments may be required.

    *Typically, both the Pico-Toning & Pico-Laser are recommended together and can be completed at the same time in one session

    *These treatments will NOT get rid of moles!

    Cost

    As of December 2024, both the Pico-Toning & Pico-Laser treatment at the VandS – Gangnam Branch was 182,000,000₩ (or about $130 USD). 

    My Skin Concern 

    Living in California where the strength of the sun is extremely high, I started to get sun spots in my late 20s. They were especially gathering on my upper cheekbones. More specifically, as you can see from the photos, the majority of the sunspots formed on my LEFT cheekbone. Why? Because the sun glares through the window as I’m driving and hits the left side of my face.This is a true testament to how much the sun damages your skin! Although they weren’t too bad, I wanted to do something about them before they got worse. (All Asians know that sun spots, if not treated, will grow darker and bigger!) Therefore, I wanted to be proactive and take the necessary precautions. 

    The right side of my face shows much smaller sunspots
    The left side of my face has bigger and much more sun spots visible

    The Process

    At VandS Clinic in Gangnam, the staff were very friendly and helpful! The entire process was very thorough starting with a skin-analysis photo. Afterward, a specialist went through each photo describing the strengths and weaknesses of my skin. This conversation was very helpful because it made me realize what I needed to do for my skin to maximize its condition. Some issues could be tackled using their most innovative tools (e.g., lasers, injections, etc.) or it could simply mean I needed to moisturize more in certain areas while exfoliating others parts. 

    Below shows a chart that depicts my comprehensive skin analysis in a nutshell. I learned that my pore size is a skin concern because having large pores on my cheeks puts me at risk for developing wrinkles faster since there is less elasticity. Therefore, I have to regularly use chemical exfoliants like BHA in this area which should help with the pore size and allow for a brighter, healthier complexion. 

    The skin analysis not only showed data about my pores, but also showed results for future wrinkles, redness, skin tone type, wrinkles, melanin, acne, pore, pigmentation, sebum, brown pigment, and radiance. Each photo shows whether you’re good, normal, or bad for each item and highlights the results on your photo. For example, for my sebum analysis, all of the white dots show where I tend to release the most amount of sebum (which is seen on my T-zone). Advice is provided in the report as well, detailing the concern of having too much sebum and recommending what to do. 

    During my consultation, we focused on the sunspots and what we could do to minimize it. The specialist recommended pico-toning and pico-laser, which sounded perfect for me. They numbed my entire face and within 30 minutes, I was in the treatment room. The nurse started with the pico-toning laser all over my face and then moved on to the pico-laser which is more precise and targeted at specific problem areas. For both treatments, I felt absolutely no pain whatsoever! I wondered if I even needed to numb my face at all. Below is a photo of what my skin looked like immediately after the both treatments. From Pico-Toning, my skin was already clearer and brighter. From the Pico-Laser, the areas where it targeted were clearly inflamed.

    Inflammation from the Pico-Laser

    Within a day or two, scabs started to form. However, the scabs didn’t feel like typical scabs. I was imagining it to be bulky and rough (like the scabs that form when you fall down and scrape your knee). However, they were minimal and could be barely felt even if I brushed my fingers against it. Unfortunately, I don’t have the best photos of it– but this gives you an idea of what it looks like!

    Every morning and night, I used the cream they provided at the clinic over the scabs. Within the next several days, I noticed they started slowly falling off. By the end of the week, they were all gone! My right side of the face is nearly flawless; the left side probably could use one more session, but at least the rough texture of the sun spots are gone! The clinic did mention that in Korea, people regularly get this treatment at least once every 6 months to a year. I’m not sure if I’ve seen this exact treatment in the states, but every time I go to Korea, this will be on my to-do list! 

  • A Korean-American’s Way Back Home to Seoul

    A Korean-American’s Way Back Home to Seoul

    Seoul, South Korea

    Seoul, South Korea is home for my soul (for obvious reasons). Although born in America, I am a daughter to immigrant, Korean parents. Growing up, I felt the clash between the eastern culture I was taught at home and the western culture that enveloped me in public. Understanding and resolving this dissonance allowed me to be the person I am today. I am proud to be Korean-American, and so this post is particularly meaningful for me. Although I didn’t grow up in Korea, I’ve visited several times throughout my life, and it has always felt like home.  

    Helpful Apps

    Kakao T is South Korea’s ride-sharing app (most similar to Uber).

    Naver Map is the best way to get around. I noticed that Google Map wasn’t always the most accurate especially when it came to the train or bus arrival/departure times! This app can also search for restaurants, activities, & more!

    If you’re planning to mostly use the train in South Korea, make sure to download EZL Top-Up because it’ll quickly show how much is left in your train card!

    Food

    Korean food is known for its SOUPS AND BROTHS! No wonder Netflix’s show about Korean cuisine is titled “A Nation of Broth.” We serve Seaweed Soup on birthdays; make a kimchi broth on cold days; and mix anything we have in the fridge to create a concoction we call Army Stew. Korea is truly a nation that loves soup. 

    Admittedly, these soups don’t necessarily have a complex flavor profile or frankly, require much skill to make. However, the warmth and heartiness of the broth allows you to melt and let all your guards down. These soups symbolize childhood memories and comfort for me, so obviously, I’m a little biased. However, here are some soups that I highly recommend for anyone visiting South Korea!

    1. Kalguksoo (which roughly translates to “knife-cut” noodle) 

    An umami flavored broth usually made with anchovy, chicken, or beef stock. With your desired protein, it is served with thick noodles and various veggies and ingredients like garlic, potato, and zucchini. It is a home-style meal that will fire up your tummy and leave you surely satisfied. 

    1. Budae Jjigae (AKA “Army Stew”)

    The history of this soup is that those in the army would scrounge for any ingredients they had, throw it in a pot, and make soup out of it. Thus, the name “Army Stew” came about. Despite its unappealing origin, the flavors are packed with spicy, savory, and umami. This is usually a favorite by visitors from all over the globe.

    1. Kimchi Jjigae 

    This is a common soup eaten and loved by all Koreans. It’s usually made with pork or spam. And although scarlet in color, I promise it’s not too spicy! In fact, it’s just the right amount of heat and savory to make you keep wanting more!

    Other Food Recommendations:

    1. Yangnyeom Gejang (spicy, marinated raw crab)

    Also, Korea is known for its affinity to spice! I’m sure we’ve all seen the viral challenge of eating the “Buldak Spicy Noodle” that led to the explosion of the other Buldak flavors like Tom Yum, Carbonara, Tomato, and sooo much more. (If you like spicy food, I highly recommend checking this ramen out!) Another dish I highly recommend is a delicacy that I’ve only ever seen in Korea: Yangnyeom Gejang (which is spicy, marinated raw crab). If you don’t like spice, there’s another variation called Ganjang Gejang (which is soy-sauce marinated raw crab). Both are insanely delicious. 

    2. Live Octopus

    Another famous place that is a must-visit in South Korea is the Gwangjang Market which is located in the Jongno District. I’ll be very candid and admit that a lot of the food here is duplicated at every stall. However, it has a lot of the basic Korean dishes and is a wonderful place to sit with friends on the heated bench, have a drink of Soju while chowing down on a variety of Korean appetizers. 

    Gwanjang Market
    Live Octopus

    However, if you’re on the hunt for more unique and “hard to find” dishes, this is an option for you!  These octopus are ALIVE and FRESH. The seller will take the beautiful cephalopod out of its tank and directly show you its sentience before chopping it up and presenting it on a plate with sesame oil, spicy gochujang sauce, topped with dried seaweed and sesame seeds. Fair warning– it still moves even after being chopped, so make sure to chew thoroughly! 

    3. Hotteok 

    Hotteok is a small, circular pancake filled with a brown, sugar syrup. It is typically eaten as a snack or dessert. Everyone in Korea is familiar with this snack– the young’ins, the parents, the aunties and uncles, and all of their grandparents. It was first brought to Korea in the 1800s and has remained as a favorite since.

    Activities

    1. Drinking / Partying

    One of the most popular activities for visitors who come to Korea is probably to go out and drink. There is a huge drinking culture here whether it’s with friends, family, or coworkers. Due to this huge drinking frenzy, a lot of bars will stay open until 6AM or so (which is usually when the first morning train starts). Drinks are also really cheap here with Soju bottles starting at 1,900₩ (which is roughly $1.50 USD). 

    1. Skin Treatment 

    If you never really cared about your skin, you might feel differently when in Korea because appearance is a huge priority. There are so many beauty tools and skincare products that are available at every corner. South Korea is at the cutting-edge of the latest and best tools needed to maintain and improve one’s appearance. Therefore, I recommend stocking up on products at Olive Young and maybe even reserving an appointment at a medspa to get a consultation to address any concerns. I personally had a consultation where I opted for the Pico-Toning and Pico-Laser! You can read about my experience here! The convenience and affordability in South Korea make this a must! Similar products or treatment would be double or triple the cost in the states, so how can you not?! 

    1. Walk the Streets of Hongdae or Itaewon

    There’s a lot of “hipster” and “cute” areas to explore in South Korea. However, I deliberately chose Hongdae or Itaewon because these areas are so multicultural and bustling. There’s a variety of shops, the best coffees, and amazing food to try. It’s easy to spend an entire day walking through these streets! Oftentimes, you can see street performers or food vendors lining the sidewalk too.

    In addition, as of December 2024, a popular and growing trend is to go to a photobooth. When I went, it seemed like there was a photobooth at every block. The last time I took a photobooth picture was when I was 16. However, the modern places will usually have an interesting theme (e.g., a bathroom layout), props to use (e.g., animal ears), and, the best part, a video that comes with the photo strip! It definitely made for a very unique and fun experience.

    Scenery

    Seoul is a huge city that is bustling with people and sparkling with neon lights. There are tall skyscrapers and buildings all over. With each year, it seems to become more and more modernized. For a city, it is fairly clean and quite safe– even for solo female travelers! Although there isn’t anything that stands out too much about the architecture, it is like your typical, modern city. 

    Lifestyle

    When I think of the people in Korea, I think of the motto, “Work hard, play hard.” Work culture in Seoul is quite intense with people often working 10+ hours a day. The average person seems very work-oriented and busy; the people are respectful but to themselves. Also, there is a distinct social hierarchy where people who are older or have a greater status must be respected. In fact, a more formal language is used for these individuals; if not, the person comes off very disrespectful.

    Despite the social hierarchy and cultural norms, it is common to see groups of people altogether being loud and boisterous. It is obvious that people enjoy spending time together and having fun with one another. On a typical day interacting with people, I felt a surface level of mutual politeness and respect with a deeper level of honesty and candor. 

  • I Went to Paris During The Peak of Asian Hate Crime…Here’s My Review

    I Went to Paris During The Peak of Asian Hate Crime…Here’s My Review

    Paris, France

    It might be easy to assume that if I could live anywhere in the world, it would be somewhere in Asia because I’m Asian. And honestly, I would think so too. It’s comfortable and convenient from the get-go. However, after coming to France, I would choose to build a new life in Paris if I could.

    Helpful Apps

    Google Maps is accurate and helpful in France!

    Uber is commonly used and makes traveling easy although the train is common too! If you’re planning to use the railway system, make sure to purchase tickets at the counter!

    Food

    A typical meal
    Escargot
    Caviar on blinis

    Are you afraid of snails or roe? WELL GET OVER IT. These are absolute delicacies in France. It’s common to see “escargot” and “caviar” listed on menus.They do not have any strange or fishy aftertaste; in fact, the flavors are earthy and aromatic. It’s typical to find restaurants serving escargot marinated in an emerald sauce of garlic and herb. The flavor profile is so perfect that you can eat a ton without getting sick of it. Hence, if I spotted it on the menu, I always had it. As for caviar, it’s typically used as a garnish to elevate the dish; it can be found on appetizers or entrees and eaten in a variety of ways. My favorite way is to eat it on blinis with creme fraiche.

    Caviar is so delicate that anything can alter its flavor profile; that’s why a mother of pearl spoon is used to gather it from its container (otherwise using metal cutlery would alter the flavor). I t h o r o u g h l y enjoyed these dishes whilst in France and continue to enjoy them in the states because these are favorites of mine! 

    I am impressed by how scrumptious French cuisine is. They are able to elevate simple dishes with various sauces and fresh ingredients. It never feels heavy or lacking; it is absolutely divine.

       

    Activities

    To be frank, the best activity in France is to walk around the city and see what you’ll come across. There are countless times where I would aimlessly wander and stumble upon a new discovery: a consignment shop with fashionable and vintage wear; a hamburger joint nestled in a multicultural avenue; or a beautiful park that will transport you into a world of magic. Each day is a surprise that will lead anyone into a realm of expansive curiosity. However, if there are absolute “musts” that I recommend, they would be…

    1. Palace of Versailles

    Everyone has heard of the Palace of Versailles. It is iconic and contentious. There is so much history here, and it is definitely worth visiting. It can easily take up an entire day to go through the hundreds of rooms within the palace and the garden maze that is outside. It is breathtakingly beautiful and simultaneously horrific thinking about the monarchy that shunned the rest of their people which eventually led to their overthrow. To walk the halls where kings and queens stepped is a transformative experience that is an absolute must! 

    1. The Louvre

    Again, this is another famous landmark that is world-renowned. Visitors from all over the world come to the Louvre to get a glimpse of the astonishing Mona Lisa. However, the Louvre also offers so much more from impressive marble sculptures to grandiose rooms with painted ceilings. Even for those who are uninterested in art, there is something that they will marvel at! I highly recommend buying tickets in advance through their website and expecting to stay the entire day. It is unbelievably spacious with 5 floors and an outdoor area; it can feel dizzying getting through all of the exhibitions. Art lovers can easily spend 2-3 days observing and admiring each work of art. However, for the regular patron, I recommend spending an entire day! 

    1. Seine River Cruise 

    There are several options for the Seine River Cruise: a romantic, boat dinner as the sun sets or a casual mass-group tour or a personalized, private ride with family and friends. Regardless of your choice, this excursion is incredible because of the ability to see so many monuments during this ride. It’s one of the best ways to get acquainted with the city as if you’re flirting with a potential date. Rides are offered throughout the day, but I recommend riding during sunset time because if timed correctly, it’ll have the most perfect view of the Eiffel Tower lit up at night. 

    Scenery

    Paris is alluring for so many reasons. It’s a cliche, but it’s so easy to get lost in this remarkable, multicultural city. There is tremendous history in all parts of the city. At Place de la Concorde stands the Luxor Obelisk, gifted by the viceroy of Egypt in the 1800s. Tuileries Garden welcomes guests with its picture-perfect landscape that looks like it sprung out of a fairytale. The Arc de Triomphe boasts Napoleon’s pride and might. Everything is so well-kept, especially given that it is a major city gaining millions of foot traffic each month. 

    Lifestyle

    I visited Paris for the first time in the summer of 2023. This was after the Covid-19 pandemic settled, and there’s been news of a lot of Asian hate crime throughout the world. This knowledge was unnerving, and I mentally prepared myself to face a lot of backlash while traveling through Europe. I tried to learn French phrases to say “stop” or “go away” thinking I’d have to use it at one point or another. However, I didn’t experience even the slightest form of racism let alone discomfort or rudeness!

    In fact, one of the main reasons that I could see myself settling in Paris is because of the lifestyle. It is totally and unequivocally, MY STYLE. The people are nonchalant, candid, and direct. Some people may be offended by their bluntness. However, I find it refreshing and comfortable. There’s no mind-games or ambiguity. What you see is what you get. They aren’t trying to be hurtful; it’s just a matter of being straightforward and honest. People who are more sensitive may not be accustomed to this culture. However, I absolutely adore it. 

    A funny story that epitomizes French culture is when I went to a Parisian cafe with my husband. When we arrived at the counter, the barista asked us what we would like. My husband was very indecisive, muttering to himself, “Should I get a vanilla latte… or should I get the mocha latte? Or maybe just an Americano?” The barista stopped him and with her heavy French accent flatly inquired, “What do you want?” She had a blank stare that peered past our souls. Immediately, my husband made a knee-jerk decision and went with any drink. This incident still makes me laugh because of how direct French people are. I found it amusing and refreshing; a place where I felt right at home. 

  • Just a Lost Asian Girl Roaming Through Italy (Milan, Florence, & Rome to be Exact)

    Just a Lost Asian Girl Roaming Through Italy (Milan, Florence, & Rome to be Exact)

    Milan, Florence, & Rome – Italy

    Italy is a country where you really want to visit ALL parts of it. It is rich with history which can be seen at every corner. It boasts some of the most beautiful architecture that’s been preserved since ancient times. In addition, its natural scenery is absolutely breathtaking. I am ITCHING to visit all corners from the Italian Alps to the Amalfi Coast. Unfortunately (but not unfortunately), for this trip, we visited Milan, Florence, and Rome!

    Helpful Apps

    Google Maps is common and accurate in Italy! It’s easy to use to get around and find things to do.

    Uber is common in Italy although traveling by bus or train is accessible too. For most buses, you can also pay directly with your credit or debit card by scanning on the payment machine when entering and leaving. Traveling by train will usually require purchasing tickets.

    Food

    I won’t beat around the bush. I will be so honest and say that Italian dishes are a bit too heavy for me… It IS delicious and filling, but I can really only handle them in smaller portions. As someone who loves cheese, I realized maybe I don’t love cheese enough because unfortunately, the cheesy pasta dishes were too much to handle. Everyday, multiple times a day, we would have pasta and pizza– or some kind of variation of each. However, as an Asian whose heart and stomach will always reside with Asian cuisine, I had to eat at least one Asian meal a day. Why? Because if I didn’t, I would actually get very cranky and not feel like myself until I had a spicy Korean soup or chilli-infused Thai noodle or some sort of fried rice. 

    With that said, it is an absolute MUST to try Italian dishes! In Rome, they are known for their carbonara pasta because they make it with water instead of milk or cream! Supposedly, this gives it a lighter flavor than other carbonara dishes (but for me, it still felt extremely heavy). 

    I also recommend the calzones which are folded pizzas! What a genius way to eat pizza comfortably as you walk around the city. Again, for me, I was able to only eat a few bites of this until I got really full and needed something else (like a spritzer) to balance out the heaviness of it. 

    Carbonara pasta made without cream or milk
    Calzones (i.e. folded pizza)

    If there is one restaurant that I highly recommend out of all places, it would be CiPasso in Rome. This restaurant is absolutely FANTASTIC! Unsurprisingly, it is also recommended by the Michelin Guide. The pasta here didn’t feel heavy and delicious appetizers were offered. I highly recommend the Truffle Crostini, which is a toasted bread with black truffle shaves on top of sheep cheese fondue, and the Lobster Linguine. I promise you won’t be disappointed.

    Activities

    Truthfully, I wish I spent more time in Italy because there is so much to see and do! We spent about 3 days in Milan, 4 days in Florence, and 5 days in Rome. However, more time in Florence and Rome would’ve been better because of the vast museums and historical sites to visit! 

    1. Millionaire Milan 

    In Milan, it is truly a shopper’s paradise. At The Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II, Italy’s oldest shopping gallery, you can find luxury shops all nestled inside the elegant galleria with its iconic window ceiling. If you’re not much of a shopper, the Duomo Museum is about a block away! This museum features works from renowned artists of the Renaissance period. As a caveat, visitors must be dressed modestly (i.e., shoulders and knees covered) in order to enter the museum! Overall, when I reminisce of Milan, I am reminded of opulence and grandeur.

    2. Fabulous Florence

    In Florence, there are so many museums, cathedrals, and palazzos to visit! The museums host historical paintings and sculptures from renowned artists of the Renaissance period. For example, the Academia Gallery is where Michaelangelo’s Statue of David resides. Since these museums are so popular, I highly recommend reserving tickets in advance! Otherwise, you’ll have to wait in line which can wrap around the entire city and easily eat up 2 or more hours of your day. If you weren’t able to get your hands on the tickets, there are other options that won’t require such a long wait (as of July 2023) such as visiting extravagant palazzos! I highly recommend Palazzo Pitti which is a palace once owned by the Medici family, an extremely wealthy and powerful family during the Renaissance period. Visiting these palazzos are just as interesting as the museums!   

    3.  Revered Rome

    Rome is a place that demands awe and attention. It is home to some of the most historic sites in THE WORLD. Of course, we all know about the Pantheon, Colosseum, and Forum; however, it is a completely different experience to go and witness these landmarks in-person! To sit in the Amphitheater where millions of Romans would cheer for gladiators or stand amidst the Forum where Romans would gather to debate and philosophize, is so humbling. Every inch of Rome showcases historic significance and magnificent design. Out of all the three cities that we visited, Rome is definitely a place to spend the most amount of time with all that it has to offer.

    While in Rome, it is an absolute MUST to visit the Vatican City. Just a short distance from all of the archaeological sites, you’ll arrive at the main area where an obelisk is erected at the center. Take a moment to immerse yourself in the historicity that surrounds you; you can be mesmerized by the architecture and artwork of the Sistine Chapel and St. Peter’s Basilica. However, since these are religious sites, please keep in mind to wear conservative clothing (as in shoulders and knees should be covered).

    Scenery

    All parts of Italy are absolutely beautiful. Given its popularity across the globe, the streets are constantly busy, and it’s common to see tour buses lining the streets. It is remarkable to see how the country managed to preserve pieces of its history so well! Whether they are regular buildings or impressive landmarks, the Renaissance period imprinted its everlasting effect which can be seen today with its grandiose size, impressive columns, and intricate details.  

    One region that left a particular mark on me is Florence. In Florence, River Arno runs through the city, and every building is colorful and enchanting. Multiple bridges are connected across the river. As you wander through the city, you’ll cross these bridges multiple times a day and every time feel a need to pause and absorb the breathtaking scenery. On the outskirts of town, there are stunning vineyards that weave through hills in the most vibrant green. I highly recommend going out to these vineyards if you can– they are easily accessible by bus! We opted for the Marchesi Antinori Vineyard, and it was absolutely astounding.

    It’s hard to choose which part of Italy is the most appealing because each area has its own specialty and is incredibly beautiful in its own way. If you’re torn with where to go in Italy, I recommend asking yourself what you want to do here. If you’re looking for shopping and glamour, I recommend Milan. If you want to learn about history and art, I recommend Rome. If you prefer the beach, then perhaps you should head south to Amalfi Coast! If you want to drink wine, then there are a multitude of vineyards to choose from! 

    Lifestyle

    I thoroughly enjoyed the Italian lifestyle! Life here seemed simple and peaceful. Most people were friendly and to themselves. Another common attitude I noticed was that of “I don’t give a f*ck” which honestly, I f*cked with. When going into grocery stores, the workers were nonchalant with a hint of disinterest. I honestly liked the straightforwardness and openness of Italians because it made me feel comfortable to also be candid and unreserved.

    Furthermore, I noticed there were a lot of Asian tourists in Italy. There were tons of tour buses lining the streets filled with often times Chinese or Korean tourists! It was nice to see a familiar face in such a foreign country. (: Due to the influx of Asians, it’s easy to find Asian restaurants too! In fact, there was a Michelin-star Korean restaurant that tasted fairly authentic. It wasn’t anything out-of-this-world, but definitely felt like home.

  • Kuala Lumpur: The Most Underrated Place to Vacation

    Kuala Lumpur: The Most Underrated Place to Vacation

    Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia

    It’s not the first place to come to mind when thinking of a place to vacation. However, it’ll be an unexpected blessing from all that you could experience here! 

    Helpful Apps

    Grab is a kind of one-stop-shop for almost everything you’ll need in Malaysia! You can hail a ride, order food, or find things to eat/do!

    If you’re planning on taking a train, KTMB is the most common app to book tickets!

    Google Maps is commonly used here as well to navigate where you want to go and explore what’s around.

    Food

    Personally, I LOVE Asian food, so it was a godsend to eat here. A lot of their dishes are mixed with other cultures, so it’s common to find fusion dishes with Chinese, Indian, or even Thai. The flavors are so dynamic and has all types of colorful spices mixed in. I’m salivating just thinking about it! 

    During my trip here, I would typically go to a cafeteria-like place where there are multiple stalls selling different types of food. I would circle the entire floor, contemplating which dish I wanted to try. There are a multitude of options and a vast array of smells that would tingle my tongue. More often than not, I’d try several dishes from different stalls because I just couldn’t help it! I highly recommend coming to these places for meals because not only does it taste authentic and amazing, but it’s also convenient and quick. My top recommendations are…

    1. Central Market – Food Court

    The food court here has a lot of great options, but I particularly recommend this area because there’s a lot to see and do. Inside the market, there are shops selling various knick-knacks and tables set up by locals selling hand-crafted goods. Outside, you can eat more at the food trucks or walk around and explore the city (nearby this market is the Klang River which you can walk alongside or check out the Independence Square).

    2. Lot 10 Mall – Underground Restaurant

    Similar to Central Market’s food court, there’s plenty of options here! The aroma from each stall fills the room, and your biggest challenge will be figuring out what to eat. There’s plenty of space to sit and options for every palette. Whether you want rice or noodles, meat or seafood, veggies or dessert, everything is provided here! 

    3. Jalon Alor

    Last, but most definitely not least, is Jalon Alor. This is Malaysia’s famous street food market. I went during the summer, so it was extremely humid and hot. To make matters worse, this place is always packed! With the sidewalks lined with vendors and people pressed together, it can feel quite intense. The workers are yelling out to the crowd trying to persuade everyone to come eat at their restaurant; menus are pressed into your face; all senses become heightened and overwhelmed with stimulation. However, the food was worth it, and the experience itself is something that you have to go through at least once in Malaysia! Admittedly, a lot of the restaurants on this street sell similar dishes, so just take your favorite pick, sit down, and enjoy the view of the bustling street!   

    BONUS! 

    There is one particular dish that I tried during my stay here that made an imprint on me for life. I’ve never had a dish similar to this before, and it was truly life-altering. If you know me, I love spicy food. So be fairly warned, this dish is quite spicy. However, what stunned me was the texture of the noodle. It is freshly made everyday using potato, and it is the chewiest and softest noodle that has ever met my tongue. It almost feels like a perfect cheese-pull in a noodle form. Ever since that day, I tried to go back and get another dish before I left. However, it was sold out EVERY. SINGLE. TIME. But if you’re lucky enough to find it when it’s in stock and bold enough to take on its heat, I HIGHLY recommend the Xi An Vermicelli Potato at Mee Hiris China Muslim in Lalaport Mall.

    Activities

    There is so much to see and explore in Kuala Lumpur. If you’re more into the city-life, then there’s plenty of malls, eateries, and infrastructures to check out (especially at night time because everything will be lit)! If you’re more into nature, there’s also plenty of green spaces like parks or historical sites that provide a good space away from the busyness of the city. However, I tried to list some more unique, memorable experiences that I was able to experience here:

    1. Batu Caves

    If you search “things to do in Kuala Lumpur,” visiting the Batu Caves is probably at the top of everyone’s list– and for good reason. This colorful Hindu temple sits at a cliff parallel to a giant, golden statue of their god, Murugan. The only way to get to the top and inside the cave is by walking up at least a hundred stairs. The difficulty level is easy to moderate, but if you have a fear or heights, then this might be really challenging (especially when coming down). Inside the cave, there are more statues and places of worship. The juxtaposition of the raw, cave walls with the vibrant, man-made items make it for a worthy sight!

    2. A Blind Massage

    Getting a massage from a blind person is an especially interesting experience because they truly only see through touch. From the several people that I’ve met at this massage parlor, everyone was congenitally blind and have never experienced sight in their lives. Therefore, when I received the head-to-toe massage, they found areas on my scalp that sounded as though my skull was creaking and knots on my upper back that were deeper and probably needed more sessions. For anyone who’s going, I highly recommend the place “Relax Two Traditional Blind Massage.” The people are very friendly and helpful!

    3. Petaling Street

    This is another popular destination within Kuala Lumpur. It is an outdoor market that sells all sorts of items from suitcases to clothing to tech. They’re also known for selling knock-off goods like Louis Vuitton bags or Nike sneakers. However, what makes this place especially memorable is learning to HAGGLE! My first time there, I was shy and just watched my friend. However, by the third time we went, we were both persistent, adamant, and unwavering. If you go, I just have three recommendations:

    First, be respectful and kind because how you treat them is how they will treat you! 

    Second, never pay full price! The first stated price is never the actual price. 

    Third, do your due diligence! Not all knock-offs are made the same. I was thankful that a worker there actually showed the difference between a good knock-off and a bad knock-off because I would’ve never known. 

    Scenery

    Kuala Lumpur is a big city with impressive towers, a lot of skyscrapers, and other enchanting buildings like mosques and malls that are beautifully and intentionally set on a picturesque backdrop. I loved that as you’re walking through the city, you can find a river and a beautiful mosque adjacent to it as if to appear that it’s floating on clouds. There are also a lot of parks and greenery to contrast from the urban qualities of the city.

    With that said, it did appear that a lot of the infrastructure was under construction. I was particularly concerned to find gaping holes on sidewalks without anything to cover it or at least a sign to warn pedestrians of it. If I was particularly careless that day and unaware of my surroundings, I could have easily fell into that hole and badly injured myself. 

    Moreover, the streets are extremely busy and bustling. Many times, people didn’t wait for the traffic light to signal them to walk across safely because oftentimes, there weren’t signal lights. Or maybe there were but I didn’t realize it because I was just following what everyone else was doing? Don’t get me wrong– as a woman in her mid-20s, walking through oncoming traffic was somewhat exhilarating, and I really had to learn to trust my gut. However, as an outsider, it definitely didn’t feel safe, and I would be very wary of crossing if I was with a child or an elder. 

    Lifestyle

    The lifestyle here kind of shocked me because I HAVE NEVER MET SUCH FRIENDLY PEOPLE IN MY LIFE. And I’m not talking about people who are just polite or those who are fake-nice. These people seemed genuine and honest. From my day-to-day interactions, I was building such a good repertoire with Malaysian people. During an Uber ride, I was able to have a very heart-to-heart conversation with the driver who was honest and vulnerable about his current situation of pregnancy difficulties with his wife. Many times if I was by myself, people would come and make conversation with me– asking me if I needed help with anything, trying to get to know me, or even showing me around the city! This was a regular occurrence! Daily acts of kindness and openness to strangers made me feel so comfortable that I would even ask random strangers if they wanted to grab lunch with me. This is something I would normally never do in any other part of the world. However, in Malaysia, if I was really bored and had an open schedule, I would just find a random stranger to eat with. Surprisingly, it didn’t feel weird or awkward. It felt like I was back in Kindergarten, and I grabbed the first girl I saw and asked her if she wanted to be my best friend (true story). The lifestyle here is very open and kind; it is an incredible place especially for any solo-travelers! 

  • The Perfect Paradise Doesn’t Exis…

    The Perfect Paradise Doesn’t Exis…

    Santorini, Greece

    Looking for a majestic, peaceful getaway with your lover? Santorini is the perfect place! It is truly a romantic paradise for partners to spend time together. This is one of those rare places where everything really is as picturesque as the online photos! With everything painted royal blue and pristine white, it feels like you’re in Mt. Parnassus with the gods.

    Helpful Apps

    Google Maps allow for exploring Santorini easy! You can see places with the best reviews and see what else is around you.

    Uber is a common way to travel throughout Santorini. However, it’s also common to hail a taxi or ride the bus. Taxis are everywhere and Google Maps will show bus stops and departures.

    Food

    Given the romantic nature of this island, there is a lot of delicious food with a STUNNING view! As captivating as the view is, the food is absolutely yummy too! There are so many different assortments of food including pasta, seafood, meat, risotto– there’s always something for someone! There’s also a handful of fancy and really popular restaurants, so it’s highly recommended to make a reservation in advance! 

    My husband and I thought we were being smart by going during off-season to avoid the crowd, but little did we know that a lot of these popular restaurants are closed during this time! However, no need to worry because there’s still many other incredible restaurants to visit! In fact, I highly recommend Kokkalo. They have a variety of unique options with great portion size! The food was delectable; some stellar recommendations are the lamb shank, mushroom and truffle risotto, and feta cheese in pie crust– WOW.

    Activities

    Admittedly, there isn’t a whole lot to do in Santorini (hence, the activities rating is a 6). Although this isn’t a personal issue for me (because I love basking in nature and feeling the serenity of the environment), my husband wanted more to do. Nevertheless, the island does offer some interesting excursions like…

    1. A photoshoot!

    I know this is not everyone’s cup of tea, and TRUST ME, it’s not something that I would normally do either. However, my husband and I felt compelled to do a photoshoot for our engagement, and wow, was it worth it! No other place mimics the beauty of Santorini. The backdrop is ICONIC and cannot be mistaken for anywhere else in the world. Even if it’s with family or friends, I highly recommend a photoshoot with a local photographer. They will take you around the island to get the most striking photos. The most romantic spot is in Oia. These are photos that will be cherished for a lifetime!

    1. Boat Tours Exploring the Caldera and the Volcano

    Did you know there is a volcano near Santorini that could erupt at any moment? Just kidding– maybe it won’t erupt at any moment, but it is active. Currently, it’s dormant, like us on vacation, but you can still see and feel the heat sizzling off. A tour guide will lead you up close and personal to check out the volcano while teaching the history of Santorini. I highly recommend this excursion!

    1. Take a Bus to Akrotiri
    Asteria Santorini Restaurant

    The bus is significantly cheaper than taking a taxi and can travel all around the island. Since we stayed in Thira, we took a bus to Akrotiri. This area feels much more rural and secluded than elsewhere on the island. It felt eerily quiet and desolate, but also immensely tranquil and simple. We barely saw anyone on the road except for the people we came with on the bus. Wandering around this region was an adventure of its own! You’ll find quaint churches, the most undisturbed beach you’ve ever seen, and lovely family-run businesses. One particular restaurant where you can sit right by the ocean is Asterias Santorini. As you eat your pita bread dipped in tzatziki and look out into the ocean, it feels like time slows down and just maybe, you’re warped into the era of togas and temples.

    Scenery

    The scenery in Santorini is un-beat-able. This is a location that you can identify immediately because of its iconic colors and famous blue domes. As a caveat, it is so white that your eyes might feel bleached! So don’t forget to bring sunglasses everywhere you go!! I always wondered how they were able to maintain such vibrant colors on this island, and I learned that during off-season, workers are going around repainting all of the buildings to ensure that everything looks immaculate for their busiest tourist season during the summer! Aha! It really does take a lot of work and devotion to keep this island so legendary. 

    Also, not to be dramatic, but the beauty of this place actually moved me to tears. I am not kidding. Every night, I would go out onto our balcony overlooking the caldera and the star-filled sky. I would gaze at this scenery for HOURS. I would think about its history and the celebrated people who came to this land for military, religious, or personal endeavors. It brought me to tears. I was so grateful to be at a time in our history where I can delve into the past and walk across the exact land that heroes have crossed thousands of years ago. Below are some UNEDITED photos that I captured from our balcony.

    Lifestyle

    The island lifestyle is always so peaceful and great. It’s like nothing can really ever bother you, and the people there definitely seemed the same! The pace of lifestyle is slow, and people are happy. They are hardworking, but seemed to have striked a good balance between work and leisure. All of the workers at the hotel, restaurants, or around town were super friendly! Something else that struck me was how appreciative the people were. Although there was a language barrier, it was enough to express so much gratitude for the smallest gestures– whether it was tipping them for their effort, showing appreciation for the food, or enjoying each other’s company during a quick taxi ride.