A Korean Dinner at Daesam Sikdang SS15 Subang that Took Me Back to Seoul

There are some restaurants you go to because you're hungry… and then there are restaurants that unexpectedly transport you somewhere else.

Dining at Daesam Sikdang (Dae Sam BBQ) in SS15 Subang felt like stepping briefly back into Seoul during my February trip to South Korea.

Daesam Sikdang (Dae Sam BBQ)

From the outside, Daesam Sikdang sits quietly in an unassuming shoplot block. Its weathered walls and doors with windows are the kind of façade you'd easily miss if not for the bright red neon sign glowing DAE SAM BBQ (see the first photo on this blog post).

But when you step inside, it's a completely different world.

You can see warm light bulbs hanging and industrial vents running across the ceiling (very Korean BBQ vibes), and handwritten posters lining the wooden walls. The space definitely hums with the familiar vibe of a great Korean BBQ restaurant.

This is the kind of place where you immediately feel you're in for a casual, friendly, and unpretentious dining experience. You're here to eat, not pose.

The Banchan that Set the Mood

The moment the tray of banchan arrived, the nostalgia hit hard.

Kimchi, japchae, fishcake, spring onion salad, pickled vegetables, steamed egg, sauces, crisp lettuce - the whole Korean ensemble.

There's always something comforting about the abundance of small plates - it feels like hospitality in edible form.

And honestly? The japchae was seriously so good it deserved its own paragraph. It's slightly sweet, glossy, and springy, and it tasted exactly like the ones I had in Seoul.

It's Not Korean BBQ Without Samgyeopsal!

Next came the star: slices of pork belly laid out on a foil-lined grill. Oh, and the promise of crispy edges, juicy centres, and that satisfying sizzle.

What's With the "Female Pig"?

One interesting thing I noticed at Daesam Sikdang was how often the phrase "female pig" appeared on their menu. I initially wondered why, but it turns out this is actually a Korean BBQ culture thing.

In Korea, am-dwaeji (female pig) is known for having tenderer, juicier, and more flavourful pork, which many BBQ restaurants proudly highlight to signal higher-quality cuts. I didn't get the chance to ask the staff about it this round, but now that I know, it makes perfect sense why they emphasise it.

Watching the meat brown slowly reminded me of winter in Seoul, when we huddled in a warm shop after walking in the freezing wind. The same smell, the same comfort, the same ritual of turning each slice at just the right moment.

When it was ready, I wrapped mine in crisp lettuce with a bit of kimchi and sauce. One bite, and I knew I'm gonna come back to this restaurant again.

The Jeon that Won the Table

If there is a dish that deserves a shout-out tonight, it's their half-half jeon platter: kimchi jeon on one side, haemul (seafood) jeon on the other.

Crispy edges, soft centres, generous fillings, and that iconic soy-sesame dip. This is the sort of dish that makes you sigh a little because it's so simple yet so satisfying.

And the mini sausage jeon? Such a throwback snack. Delicious, savoury, nostalgic.

Would I Return? Absolutely.

Daesam Sikdang is the kind of restaurant you go to when you want authentic Korean flavours, generous banchan (with a killer japchae), a relaxed, no-frills ambience, and warm, satisfying comfort food.

It's also perfect for catching up with friends, family dinners, or just any random weekday craving for Korean BBQ.

For me, it's reliving the moments where I want a tiny slice of Seoul without a boarding pass.

And a special thanks to Di, my ex-colleague who recommended this place. Without her suggestion, I might have missed out on a dinner that reminded me so deeply of Seoul.

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The Ultimate Legoland Malaysia Guide for Kids Aged 9 to 12

Guide to Legoland Malaysia for Children Aged 9 to 12

Travelling with kids aged 9 to 12 is a completely different kind of fun. They are old enough for real thrill rides, curious enough to enjoy learning experiences, and independent enough to explore without hand-holding. On our recent trip to Legoland Malaysia, I realised this theme park is actually perfect for this age group.

Fun fact: Legoland Malaysia is our number one pick for "Cuti-cuti Malaysia", a place we have returned to over the years without fail: April 2018, October 2019, October 2020, March 2022 (our first stay at the Legoland Hotel), and February 2023. It is more than a theme park to us now; it is a timeline of our boys' childhood.

So, in this 6th family trip to Legoland Malaysia, here's what we did, what we loved, and what I think other parents of "big kids" will appreciate too.

1. Stay at the Legoland Hotel

One of the best decisions we made was staying at the Legoland Hotel. The moment you step into the lobby, you are greeted by a giant pirate ship, a Lego castle, and piles of colourful bricks waiting to be turned into creations.

For kids aged 9 to 12, this lobby is heaven. No longer toddlers who need close supervision, they can wander between the play zones, work on their own Lego builds, and challenge themselves creatively. We spent a good chunk of time right here; just the kids building, dismantling, rebuilding, and proudly showing off their designs.

On more thing, if your kids enjoy problem-solving, don't skip the in-room treasure hunt. It adds a layer of excitement before bedtime and gives them a sense of independence while solving clues.

Check out our stay at the incredible Legoland Hotel!

2. Go for Repeated Roller-Coaster Rounds

This is the first time my youngest boy is tall and brave enough to go on every roller coaster. Both my boys absolutely made the most of it.

The Great LEGO Race, the one at the LEGO Technic area is fun, fast, and great as a warm-up before venturing to the other two classic roller coasters.

The Small Dragon (Dragon's Apprentice): This one is perfect for repeated rounds. The queue moves fast and the ride has just enough kick for kids who love the not-so-extreme roller-coaster buzz and thrills.

The Big Dragon (The Dragon Coaster): This is a classic. Dramatic castle entrance, thrilling drops, and just enough speed to get everyone (even the adults) screaming and laughing without being too overwhelming.

3. SEA LIFE is Surprisingly Engaging for Big Kids

I wasn't expecting SEA LIFE to hold the kids' attention for long, but it did. We turned it into a mini learning adventure: identifying different species, laughing at some species' names, watching animal behaviour.

Guess what's the highlight? It's that adorable baby stingray that kept "dancing" along its glass tank, flipping and wriggling like it was performing a show.

There's also an illustration station, where my eldest kiddo drew Patrick the starfish. It's surprisingly therapeutic and gives kids (and adults) a creative break between exhibits.

SEA LIFE is a must-do if your kids enjoy animals, marine life, or hands-on activities.

4. What We Missed (and What You Should Check)

We didn't make it to the Water Park this round. It was closed on Tuesdays. So if you are planning your trip, double-check the operating days and hours before you go. It's the kind of small logistical detail that can make or break your itinerary.

So, What Makes Legoland Perfect for Kids Aged 9 to 12?

Well, every parent knows that 9 to 12 is an interesting in-between stage. They are not babies, but they are also not teens yet. Legoland suits this "big kid" stage beautifully because:

• Rides are exciting, not scary.
• Activities are hands-on and stimulating.
• The hotel lobby gives them independent playtime.
• SEA LIFE appeals to their curiosity.
• They can handle a full, active day without meltdowns.
• They appreciate Lego creativity on a deeper level.

This is the age where childhood memories become core memories, and Legoland provides the perfect backdrop.

Tips for Parents Visiting Legoland Malaysia with 9- to 12-Year-Olds

Travelling with older kids is such a joy. Here's what worked for us:

✔ Spend time in the hotel lobby; it’s genuinely a big hit.

✔ Allocate at least 1-2 hours for SEA LIFE.

✔ Go early to avoid queues for the Dragon roller coasters.

✔ Let them choose which rides to repeat.

✔ Go on the rest of the rides and thematic activities (find out from Legoland's website).

✔ If the Water Park is part of your plan, avoid Tuesdays.

This trip reminded me how much magic there is in experiencing a theme park through their eyes. Legoland Malaysia is more than just a place for little ones.

For kids aged 9 to 12, it's a world of adventure, creativity, and discovery. Honestly, I think this might be the best age to visit.

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Guangzhou Trip 2025: All the Firsts (A Working Trip, But Make It Fun)

My recent Guangzhou trip was meant to be work (think: hospital facilities tour, live medical treatment sessions, doctor interviews). And of course, all that happened.

But somewhere between Guangzhou Baiyun International Airport and Canton Tower, Guangzhou gave me a long list of 'firsts' that turn a work trip into something a little more memorable.

Here's everything that made this working trip fun!

First Time Flying China Southern Airlines

Just like my first time flying TransNusa to Jakarta, there's always something about boarding a new airline that makes even a routine flight feel a little special. This time, my flight experience with China Southern Airlines makes me momentarily forget I have work deliverables waiting for me on the other end.

First Time Visiting Modern Cancer Hospital Guangzhou

This one definitely deserves its own spotlight.

Walking into St. Stamford Modern Cancer Hospital Guangzhou, I expected "hospital energy", you know, that cold, clinical, intimidating vibe. But instead, I felt warmth. The people were kind, the environment was welcoming, and the level of care and technology was honestly eye-opening.

It was my first time touring a cancer hospital overseas. Seeing how seriously they take multidisciplinary treatment, how structured their processes were, and how genuinely involved their teams are… it made my work feel even more purposeful. If I ever needed a reminder of why we do what we do, I found it there.

First Time Trying Xinjiang Cuisine

Credit to my Muslim teammates, this was a culinary experience in Guangzhou I didn't know I needed. Lamb skewers, cumin, spices that wake you up and your ancestors hahaha... Xinjiang food (yes, we had Xinjiang cuisine in Guangzhou) is bold, hearty, and full of character!

First Time Walking Along Beijing Road

And then there was Beijing Road - my first time walking through its colourful chaos. The energy was loud, bright, and overstimulating (argghh the crowd!)

But what caught my eye the most? The rows and rows of tanghulu - glossy, jewel-like skewers of candied fruit lined up in every colour possible. If Guangzhou had a dessert mascot, it would definitely be tanghulu. They are just too impossible to ignore.

First Time Taking the Pearl River Cruise at Night

If you ever want to see Guangzhou glow, take the night cruise.

The skyline, the bridges, the neon lights reflecting on the water. It was peaceful and beautiful throughout the entire 1-hour ride.

First Time Seeing Canton Tower in Both Daylight and Night Glow

Seeing Canton Tower twice, once in daylight and once glowing at night, felt like meeting two different sides of Guangzhou. By day, it's sleek and striking. By night, it transforms into a rainbow-lit showpiece that steals the skyline.

And yes, it was breathtaking… but a small part of me felt proud knowing that back home, KL Tower stands just as tall in spirit - equally impressive, if not more, in its own Malaysian way.

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Six Firsts That Made My Jakarta Trip Memorable

Jakarta wasn't meant to be a holiday. It was a typical work trip, but between the busy moments, I found myself collecting "firsts" - small, unplanned ordinary things that made this trip a little more memorable than I expected.

1. First TransNusa Flight

This was my first time flying with TransNusa. It had always been AirAsia or Batik Air, for example, during my trips to Guilin, Seoul & Macau, Taipei, and Phuket.

There's always something about boarding a new airline that makes even a routine flight feel a little special.

2. Meeting the Ondel-Ondel

At first, I thought they were part of the hotel décor: two towering, colourful figures with painted faces, one red and one white. Then I spotted them again at the airport. Curiosity got the better of me, and a quick search told me they were Ondel-Ondel, Jakarta's iconic Betawi symbol that represents protection and good fortune.

The red-faced man symbolises courage, while the white-faced woman symbolises calm. Together, they bring harmony and protection wherever they appear. Traditionally paraded through the streets to ward off bad spirits, they now stand proudly as reminders of the city's heritage.

It's strange how something I almost walked past turned out to be one of the most meaningful sights of the trip.

3. Indomaret Pop Mie Adventure

I think convenience stores like Indomaret in Jakarta is like Speedmart and KK Mart in Malaysia. I first came across the Pop Mie cup noodles brand on the TransNusa flight.

So when when I saw rows of Pop Mie of different flavours at Indomaret, I just had to buy all of them. I laughed at myself for travelling all the way to Jakarta to buy cup noodles… and then decided it was exactly what I needed.

4. Discovering Nasi Tutug Oncom

I tried Nasi Tutug Oncom for the first time. It's a humble Sundanese dish described as mixed rice with oncom fermented beans, wrapped in banana leaves, and served with assorted salted fish, dry fried chicken, tofu, tempeh, basil leaves, and raw vegetables, and special chili paste or sambal. 

It was simple, honest food - the kind that doesn't try too hard, but leaves you thinking about it hours later.

5. My First Negroni

The first time I heard of Negroni was when I watched "Drink Masters" on Netflix. I Googled, and AI Overview explained: "A Negroni is a classic Italian cocktail made with equal parts gin, sweet vermouth, and Campari, garnished with an orange slice or peel. It's typically stirred with ice, strained into a rocks glass with a large ice cube, and served as an apéritif due to its strong, bitter, sweet, and herbal flavour profile."

But, being a non-drinker, I've never tried one. At the hotel bar, I finally did. One sip and I understood the reputation: bitter, bold, aromatic, unapologetically grown-up. It wasn't a "relax by the pool" drink; it was more of a "pause and take it in" kind of drink.

6. Visiting Jakarta Cathedral

The Jakarta Cathedral is located right across from Istiqlal Mosque. Two places of worship standing side by side. Two buildings connected by Terowong Silaturahim.

It was beautiful - architecturally and symbolically. After days of rushing between work and rest, it was the kind of stillness that gently stays with you.

Closing Thoughts

None of these "firsts" were bucket-list material. And maybe that's exactly what made them special. Ironically, they weren't planned (which says a lot, coming from someone who usually over-plans every trip abroad).

They weren't glamorous either. Just small, human, real.

I guess, travel isn't always about how far you go or how much you see.

It's about noticing—really noticing—the little, unplanned things that quietly turn any trip into a story worth remembering. Maybe that's what matters most.

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Sipping My Way Through Club Med Phuket

 

I’m not the type to fill my holiday schedule with activities. Just give me a quiet spot, a good view, and something nice to sip on. That's my ultimate definition of bliss.

At Club Med Phuket, that's exactly how my days unfolded. While others were doing archery or some form of sports, I was busy curating my own "itinerary": a menu of drinks, each paired with a different feeling of the day and a different shade of the sea, so to speak.

☀️ Mornings always began with coffee.

There's something about starting the day with coffee that feels grounding. That first sip with sunlight reflecting off the pool. That quiet pause before the day properly began.

Morning calm: Coffee + light salad + Phuket sunshine. The ritual that grounded the day.

Coffee + sea + blue sky = three shades of calm. The kind of moment I refused to rush or be rushed.

Mid-morning refuel with a glass of creamy, nutty smoothie; paired with a toasted light bite.

🌿 Afternoons called for something cooler.

Usually some kind iced concoctions. These afternoon drinks became tiny celebrations of slowing down while I hid in the shade. Each sip was a testament that holidays don't need to be rushed.

Post-lunch at the lounge near the main bar, I settled in with this bright, citrusy cocktail that tasted like bottled sunshine. I'm pretty sure it was mango.

Excuse me while I sipped on a pineapple-topped frozen delight, relishing my unapologetically holiday mood in the lounge corner.

The pink cocktail was gentle and vodka-soft, the other bold with apple and ginger. Together, they turned a simple afternoon into a double dose of calm at the Zen Pool.

🌅 Evenings were for cocktails.

Mojito, espresso martini, something citrusy, something sweet. Each one felt like a little chapter — light, fizzy, soothing, or bold — depending on the mood.

It was more than a cocktail. It was a glass as blue as the pool, glowing quietly against the skyline as the day gave way to night.

More cocktails in the early evening by the pool, when the sky still has hints of blue, and the night hasn't quite begun.

A crisp cocktail with a leafy crown, perfect for slowing down as the day fades.

There's something about an Espresso Martini at night. It's strong and unapologetic, like a bold jolt that carries you into the late hours.

And somewhere between the first sip and the last, I realised I didn't miss the activities. I didn't need to tick boxes or keep up with a schedule. The simplicity of it became its own kind of ritual, a way of noticing the small pleasures that often get lost when we're too busy "doing."

Maybe that's the real luxury of a place like Club Med. It doesn't pressure you to do everything. It gives you the space to choose your own version of holiday happiness, even if that means spending everyday measuring your days in cups and glasses.

Because sometimes the best souvenirs aren't activities ticked off a list, but the little rituals you bring home with you. And mine? The freedom of doing almost nothing, but still come home with memories worth keeping.

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Mixing Life into a Bowl of Guilin Rice Noodles

When I think back on my trip to Club Med Guilin, one of the most memorable experiences wasn't the mountains, the shows, or even the Zen pool. It was a simple bowl of Guilin mi xian (rice noodles).

What makes this dish special isn't just the noodles themselves, but the way you prepare before you eat this dish. You don't just sit down and slurp — you build it. Start with the soft, springy rice noodles, add a ladle of the broth/brine, then toss in your toppings: fried peanuts, Guilin chili, sour pickles. Most people will also add chopped spring onion and coriander but I won't.

Next, mix it up, taste, and adjust. Maybe you'll want a little more crunch, a bit more sour, or an extra kick of spice. In the end, no two bowls are ever exactly the same.

And that's when it hit me: Guilin mi xian is more than food. It's a reminder that life is meant to be customised. You don't have to follow the same "recipe" as everyone else — you get to decide how spicy, how simple, or how bold your own bowl should be.

That felt especially true for me in Guilin. At Club Med, the schedule is packed with activities — trapeze, pool games, archery. But instead of running around trying to do it all, I chose to slow down, sit back, and savour small things. Like a mojito at sunset. Like the mist curling around the mountains. And yes — like this bowl of noodles, layered with flavour, just the way I liked it.

Sometimes the best memories aren't about doing everything, but about choosing what to mix in and what to leave out. Just like Guilin mi xian, life is better when you make it your own.

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