Grace Capsule

Author: Grace

  • 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.

  • 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. 

  • Walking Amongst the Greek Gods

    Walking Amongst the Greek Gods

    Athens, Greece

    What a wonderful and mystical place. Greece is one of my top destinations that I’ve visited! There is so much history to learn, myths to be inspired by, and people to be reckoned with!

    Helpful Apps

    Google Maps is common and effective in Greece. During my stay, we rented our own car, and Google Maps was perfect for navigation as well as finding things to do and places to eat.

    Uber is common in Greece! It’s also easy to hail a taxi.

    Efood is probably the most popular food delivery app in Greece. However, be warned that the app is in Greek! With some help with Google Translate, it can be navigated, and the vendors will usually speak English!

    Food

    Greek food is absolutely delicious because of its wonderful blend of savory, freshness, and tartiness. These are some must-tries if you ever visit!

    1. Tzatziki

    First on the is is 100% TZATZIKI! We ate tzatziki ALL DAY, EVERY DAY! I’m from California, and tzatziki is (fairly) easy to find in stores. However, the flavors were much more fresh and delicious in Greece (which is expected since it originates from here)!! Each region makes it differently– sometimes it’s more creamy like yogurt and other times, it’s more chunky like cottage cheese. But every time, it was stupendously delicious! It was absolutely transportive with a warm side of pita bread. If you like flavors that are refreshing and tangy, THIS IS A MUST!   

    2. Gyro

    The gyro is another dish that you couldn’t escape even if you tried. These bad boys are sold everywhere! They are extremely flavorful and come with your favorite choice of meat– chicken, lamb, pork, or beef. The meat is usually cut from a rotating skewer that has been marinated in all sorts of colorful spices. They lay it on a soft pita bread with fresh onions, french fries, tomato, and of course, Greek yogurt! The melody of flavors make it an ideal meal that can satisfy all palettes!

    3. Greek Salad

    Another simple yet incredible dish is the Greek salad. It really encapsulates Greece with its fresh, crisp ingredients and explosive flavors. Usually, it’ll come with ingredients like tomato, red onion, peperoncini, and olives. (As a side note, I’m usually not a fan of olives, but I recommend that you at least try! Greece is the only place where I felt the olives were perfectly marinated and not overly salty). Also, something about eating a healthy, crunchy salad by the ocean just makes you FEEL GOOD– literally and figuratively. They usually pack on a lot of feta cheese (which is never enough for me because I loveeee cheese). And as with any American meal, salad is great to pair with more heavier dishes like meat or pasta. 

    Scenery

    I don’t know what I expected when I first arrived in Greece, but I was taken aback. I should’ve known better since cities can be hard to maintain. However, I guess I envisioned Greece to be in pristine condition with an oceanic hue as if the gods and goddesses really lived there. (I know that’s unrealistic, and I was probably brainwashed by the completely edited and photoshopped posts by Instagram influencers.) Although it’s not perfect like the online photos, it is still beautiful. There may be some graffiti and litter, but it is also lively and warm with city centers where people are selling fresh fruit, pastries, and coffee. There are narrow alleyways that go in all kinds of directions, and you never know what you’re going to pass by– a shoeshiner, a cafe, a boutique, or a vase shop. Half of the fun is really just walking through all parts of the city to see what day-to-day life is like. You’ll also meet a lot of random cats that look hungry but are still so cute and friendly. 

    When you go to the outskirts of town (perhaps by the mountains or near the beach), life starts to feel a lot more calm. You become immersed in nature, and it’s like you’ve been taken back in time. People seem to enjoy the simplicity of life, and the environment for sure helps you feel recharged.

    Activities

    If you love history or Greek mythology, there is an endless amount of activities for you! The city is rich with so many preserved archaeological sites. Its stories are even more astounding as the country is the birthplace of democracy. It really feels like traveling back in time to when the people believed that gods and goddesses intervened in human affairs. Below are some of my favorites places to visit in Athens!

    1. The Acropolis

    You can visit the acropolis which sits atop a cliff overlooking the entire city. Here, guests are invited to wander into various temples and learn about the different deities that were worshipped. Other impressive buildings in this area are the Parthenon, Odeon, the Theatre of Dionysus, and much more!

    2. Monastiraki Flea Market

    Monastiraki Flea Market is another fun-filled adventure where there is so much to see, smell, and taste. There are a lot of shops selling knick-knacks and souvenirs. It’s an endless amount of walking, zigzagging through the narrow streets. There is an abundance of items to choose from– Greek sandals, a chess set, yummy snacks, or functional accessories. It’s easy to get lost amidst this bustling area, but that is part of the fun!

    3. Filopoppau Viewpoint

    To escape the chaos of the city, hiking up Filopoppau Viewpoint is a wonderful option! The hike is easy, and the entire way, you’re surrounded by nature. The overlook allows you to have an immaculate view of the city, almost at eye-level with the Acropolis. While here, I highly recommend visiting Socrate’s Prison (pictured above, right). The prison looks haunting but also incredible given the immense history of all that occurred here.

    BONUS: Rent a car and travel outside of Athens!

    Pro Tip: I highly recommend finding a tour guide (or possibly even renting your own car) to visit places outside of Athens. It’s DEFINITELY worth it, and sometimes even more impressive than what Athens has to offer. Two places that come to mind are Acrocorinth and Delphi. 

    Acrocorinth is similar to the Acropolis in that it located at a summit. However, it expands across a much larger parameter in a grassy and woodsy landscape. Although still in ruins, a good amount is still well-preserved that it transports you back into time. Within Acrocorinth, you can see areas where they built a church and a temple back then for other religions to take refuge. I find this beautiful that even then, Greece was a culture that was so open-minded and accepting of all people.  

    Another remarkable place is Delphi which resides next to a small but enchanting little town called Arachova. Arachova looks like it appeared from a fairy tale and is definitely worth exploring. To picture this beautiful, quaint town next to The Oracle of Delphi where the pythia would conjure spirits and fortunes IS FASCINATING. Learning about the history of the Oracle of Delphi and how travelers and leaders from all over the world would come to this mountain peak to know their future feels surreal. 

    Greece has such a wondrous and long history that it’s a must to visit these places and learn more! 

    Lifestyle

    The lifestyle here seems slower and calmer. Mornings are especially slow because most places won’t open until late morning or afternoon. However, once the shops begin to open, you can hear chatter and people gathering around fruit stands, cafes, and shops. You can smell the fresh strawberries from 5 meters away; the pastry shops emit a golden aurora from the baked goods that are toasted to perfection! You see people sitting around, basking in the sun while enjoying their sandwich. People are to themselves but still very friendly. I didn’t run into any issues with anyone and thoroughly enjoyed my week in Athens, Greece!