#rambutan place at 14

[playingplayer2]

I am a menace to society. A vampire for fruits if you would. A fruitherbivore even.

Important question. What are your top 3 fruits

[fouryearsofshades]

A Market Stall in Batavia, Andries Beeckman (attributed to), Albert Eckhout (rejected attribution), c. 1640 - c. 1666 

The Dutch and Malay inscriptions on the piece of paper in the lower right corner identify this as a Dutch painting of subjects studied on the spot. Most of the fruit varieties are found only in Indonesia, the former Dutch East Indies, and were not exported to Europe at the time. The combination of figures from different countries suggests that the setting is most probably the very cosmopolitan Batavia, modern-day Jakarta.8 A Chinese merchant, recognizable as such from his distinctive goatee, moustache and remarkably long fingernails, is counting coins in a fruit stall set off with bamboo partitions. Standing on the left is a woman wearing a typically Javanese sarong and kebaya and holding a small cigar in one hand while placing a durian upright with the other. A second Javanese woman in the middle is lifting a small bundle of leaf wrappers out of a small Japanese lacquered casket, probably betel leaves. A boy behind her is picking a banana from the bunch hanging on the right. A striking salmon-crested cockatoo (Cacatua moluccensis) is perched on the bamboo screen at the back.

Andries Beeckman went to great lengths to depict the huge diversity of tropical fruit as faithfully as possible, but he was clearly not a professional still-life painter. The different varieties are easily distinguished, but their textures are not convincing. Laid out on the table – some with numbers matching the list on the piece of paper (the latter are given between brackets below) – are, on the far left, from top to bottom, rambutans (Nephelium lappaceum, no. 1), langsats (Lansium domesticum, no. 3) and starfruit (Averrhoa carambola, no. 2). Beside them are a partly cut pomelo (Citrus maxima, no. 4) and durians, one of them sliced (Durio, no. 5). The three small pieces of red fruit at bottom left are water or Malay apples (Syzygium aqueum or Syzygium malaccense, no. 6) or Java apples (Syzygium samarangense), and lying to their right are mangoes (Mangifera indica, no. 7) and pineapples (Ananas comosus, no. 8). Below the two pineapples in the centre are jackfruit, one halved (Artocarpus Heteropyllus, no. 9) and several small mangosteens, some opened (Garcinia mangostana, no. 10). On the right are bananas (no. 11), five coconuts and a halved one (Cocos nucifera), and at the very front cashew apples (Anacardium occidentale). The fruit cut in two in the Japanese casket is probably a sort of lime called a Calamondin orange (Citrofortunella microcarpa).

The Rijksmuseum painting is a reduced version of a canvas from an anonymous series of scenes of foreign peoples and produce that decorated the walls of Schloss Pretzsch an der Elbe in Saxony until 1828 (fig. a).9 In the nineteenth century they were removed, first to Berlin and then to Schloss Schwedt an der Oder in Brandenburg.10 They were seen there in the 1930s by Thomsen, who rather hesitantly attributed them to Albert Eckhout and dated them around the middle of the seventeenth century.11 Schwedt was completely destroyed in the closing days of the Second World War, and all that is left of the works of art are pre-war black-and-white photographs making it clear that the attribution to Eckhout is untenable.12

The connection with the canvas from Schloss Pretzsch also led to this Market Stall in Batavia being wrongly attributed to Eckhout or his circle in the past.13 It is woodenly executed, compositionally clumsy, and is not of the kind of Brazilian subject for which Eckhout is known. Minor differences between the two paintings show that they were not copied after each other but seem to share the same or a similar source. The way in which the fruit and cockatoo are depicted displays a clear resemblance to the only known still life by Andries Beeckman (fig. b), and, interestingly, one of the scenes from the series in Pretzsch castle was definitely based on watercolours by him,14 so the present canvas could also be by Beeckman or someone from his circle.

Very little is known about the picture’s provenance, although there are a few early records of an Indonesian fruit market, and since A Market Stall in Batavia is the only surviving work of that nature there is a great temptation to associate it with those early sources. There is, however, nothing that can be said for certain. Around 1660 Jan Vos wrote an ode about paintings in the collection of Joan Huydecooper, among them an ‘East Indies fruit market’: ‘Who has driven me from the north to the east? / I find myself in the market of the East Indies coast. / Here nature displays her fruit as food for life. / The sight makes my mouth desire the beautiful harvest, / Thus is my stomach now sorely overburdened. / Greedy eyes are not soon satiated’.15 It may well be that the poet was referring to the Rijksmuseum canvas.16 There is a second mention of an ‘East Indies fruit market’ a little later in the collection of burgomaster Mattheus van den Broucke of Dordrecht.17 It is far from obvious that it refers to this Market Stall in Batavia. His picture was one of a series of which the others were described as ‘One ditto, with East Indies animals and fruit’, ‘One ditto, being East Indies lodgings, ‘One ditto’, ‘Three ditto, East Indies women’ and ‘A Moorish woman’.18 It is very possible that the Rijksmuseum painting was also part of a larger ensemble of that kind.

Erlend de Groot, 2022

[infinitelystrangemachinex]

Champion of fringe rival nation? :)

01. Full name: Ah Kukumatz Chan Tepeu (”Kukumatz”), though he’s known widely by pretty much every other name but that one. Our MC Ta’ab knows him mainly as the Silent Spirit, or sometimes just Sinam, the Scorpion02. Best friend: One might think it’s Nuuk Che’ the maize woman, since he’s always pestering her for news of the lost hero. But he’s been forcibly adopted by a bird, a band of kids from the conquered nation, Ta’ab’s dog, and Ta’ab and Chak Ti themselves. He’s just in a constant state of being happily torn many ways and he never asked for this, he’s supposed to be the night03. Sexuality: Distinguished bisexual04. Favorite color: Red, though his aesthetic is black for practical reasons05. Relationship status: Pretending all his potential romantic and nonromantic relationships don’t exist, since he’s in the active process of crushing his new ones with Ta’ab and Chak Ti and Ta’ab’s dog, he might as well be thorough about all this06. Ideal mate: Someone he can match wits with, someone who can sweep him off his feet figuratively and literally (he will never admit this, not even to himself), a big spoon to his little spoon, someone who’s okay with being given things and having things done for them instead of having things said because in spite of all his training and all his eloquence he’s horrible at actually expressing himself 07. Turn-ons: Friendships that smolder, clap-backs, rambutan fruit, any more-than-friendly situation where he’s the one in control at first and then he abruptly is not08. Favorite food: Rambutan fruit, also likes fish roasted in honey09. Crushes: Chak Ti but too bad he’s dead, Ta’ab but he hasn’t got a chance, and he once as a teen swooned into the arms of a young jaguar warrior while out of disguise and on a hunt, but the guy dropped him so he wouldn’t miss his shot at a mixed macaw10. Favorite music: His own, since he was trained to be a proper singer as befitting of his own hopeful hero status, and he manages a nice baritone11. Biggest fear: The consequences of the broken pact if he can’t help get Ta’ab up to speed fast enough (and then betray her as he and Nuuk Che’ had planned), tied for first place with his fear of Poy the Maskmaker12. Biggest fantasy: Adventuring, voyaging, flying - with people he can assuredly call friends13. Bad habits: Going berserk while slaying monsters, making mistimed friendships and not maintaining well-timed ones, letting his wit get him into trouble instead of out of it14. Biggest regret: Bringing his emotions into his dealings with Nuuk Che’ and her network15. Best kept secrets: Not only his multiple identities, but how he juggles them allHe carries the lost hero’s sword everywhere, but it’s never suited him and he’s never been able to wield it properlyHis assassination attempts on choice judges

16. Last thought: “Hope those two at least say hello.”17. Worst romantic experience: Getting dropped by that jaguar warrior is a good one, though finally being carried by a very strong but very dead Chak Ti is a solid competitor18. Biggest insecurity: How he’s supposed to fit into his own narrative. Is he just a guide and catalyst for Ta’ab, or is he not living up to some larger role he’s supposed to be filling?19. Weapon of choice: Anything lightweight, mainly obsidian knives.20. Role Model: Nuuk Che’, though he never says so, mainly because she would never encourage any sort of hero worship of her, and his practically royal status as the man Kukumatz demands that he publicly revere his namesake god, the Hero Twins, and other deities in the pantheon as his role models

character ask meme

[sikmurangmaingay]

1. I wish I had an older brother, I wish my parents were openminded, I wish to be a CEO of a huge company, Toyota maybe?

2. Up, Identity thief, Shrek series

3. Fray-Look after you, Urbandub-Frailty, Arctic Monkeys-I wanna be yours

4. How the showbizness works, depression/mental health, Role of ancient people in Astrology

5. Purple, white, gold

6. Russel (up), Mulan, Tiana (princess and the frog)

7. Blueberry, rambutan, Indian mango

8. iCarly, Doraemon, Spongebob Squarepants

9. sip a hot chocolate, lay down in bed in a blanket, listen to music

10. Bread with nutella, Blueberry pie, Tuyo

11. Celeste Ng-Everything I never told you, Rainbow Rowell-Eleanor & Park, Nicholas Sparks-A bend in the road

12. Fb messenger, Youtube, Google chrome

13. pass. wala ko maisip

14. Engineer, chef, architect

15. "I'll trade all my tomorrows for just one yesterday", fall out boy (just one yesterday), "I could paint you picture perfect even if I were blinded, but you have to die for me to see how to live", escape the fate (picture perfect), "All these places have their moments, With lovers and friends I still can recall,some are dead and some are living,In my life I've loved them all", The beatles (in my life)

16. lemonade from this certain brand, naked's berry drink, water

17. My parents, Kimerald, me and my future husband.. lol

18. be a teacher, an actress, a chef

19. Arowana, snake, parrot

20. Vulnerable, impatient, feisty

21. Cooking, skin care, drawing

22. Up, Anak, Nicholas Sparks-a bend in the road

23. Britney spear-toxic, jlo-love dont cost a thing, mariah carey-obsessed

24. bahay sa pinas, my room, the kitchen

25. my cousin Edmund, my bestfriend Jolly, tatay ko

26. South Korea, Canada, Dubai

27. Talk to friends in person, cook for my family, go to church

28. Carbonara, Champorado, Chicken curry

29. responsible, respectful, witty

30. the moment nung tinawagan ako ng pinsan ko habang umiiyak sya, para sabihing patay na lola namin, nung sinabihan ako ng coworker ko na matalino daw ako nung last day ko na sa work, nung nangupit kami ng pinsan ko sa distant relative naming taga maynila na madalas nakikituloy sa bahay namin everytime may ganap sa pangasinan nung bata pa kami.

31. Rose, Lavender, Buttercup

32. January, June, December

33. none (i dont use scented candles)

34. pass..

35. squash, asparagus, kangkong

36. pass.. i dont travel

37. Korean, Spanish, Chinese

wala lang.. bet ko lang magsagot ng mga tanong..

‘3 things....’ asks!

1. 3 things you wish for

2. 3 movies you have rewatched many times

3. 3 songs that mean something to you

4. 3 topics you’d love to learn more about

5. 3 colors to paint your room

6. 3 characters that inspire you

7. 3 fruits that you love the most

8. 3 tv shows that you never get bored of

9. 3 things you like doing on a rainy day

10. 3 things you like eating with coffee

11. 3 books that you would recommend everyone to read

12. 3 apps you use the most

13. 3 classes you used to hate in middle school

14. 3 professions that you would like to try

15. 3 quotes that have a special place in your life

16. 3 drinks you consume the most

17. 3 tv couples you adore the most

18. 3 dream jobs you’ve had in your childhood

19. 3 animals you’d love to take care of in your house

20. 3 adjectives that you’d use to describe yourself

21. 3 things you are the most passionate about

22. 3 movies/books/tv shows that made you cry

23. 3 songs you listen to while cleaning

24. 3 places that makes you feel peaceful

25. 3 people you’d never get tired of

26. 3 countries you’d love to visit

27. 3 things you wish you did more often

28. 3 things you love cooking/baking

29. 3 characteristics of the person you aspire to be

30. 3 moments you could never forget

31. 3 types of flowers you love the most

32. 3 months you enjoy the most

33. 3 scented candles that you love the most

34. 3 people in history that inspire you the most

35. 3 vegetables that you like the taste of

36. 3 ways of traveling that you enjoy the most

37. 3 languages you would love to learn

[northggaia-blog]

North Gaia 71 Facilities

Yishun Nature Park Yishun Greenwalk - Completed in 2016, it is arranged along Yishun Ring Road and is just 10 minutes' walk around North Gaia EC. It is a spot for the neighborhood, being equivalent, to explore and discover concerning the nearby vegetation in  North Gaia project details Singapore. There are boards that help visitors with investigating the entertainment region and nature trails. There are moreover safeguarded resting lodges and young people's wilderness exercise center, making it an incredible target for families.

Yishun Pond Park - A 6 minutes' drive from North Gaia EC, it is a safe-haven of quietness that incorporates a lake enveloped by delightful plants and a grouping of trees, shrubberies and marshland plants. Nature sweethearts can distinguish a couple of bird creature classifications in the entertainment region and discover concerning the verdure from information sheets. There is moreover a winding zenith where visitors can participate in a raised viewpoint of the including locales. Then again, they can essentially sit and loosen up at the seats and participate in the serenity and greatness of the water promenade.

Yishun Park - It is a 14-hectare park with ordinary vegetation and a grouping of tropical normal item trees, for instance, durian, rambutan, jackfruit, star regular item, coconut, and bread natural item trees, among other tropical regular items. Made from an old flexible area, it offers a variety of workplaces, for instance, children's wilderness exercise centers, wellbeing zones, an amphitheater, and multi-reason courts. The wilderness rec centers will keep kids drew in for quite a while, while the multi-reason courts are incredible for family get-togethers and activities. On the other hand, visitors can utilize the accommodations at the SAFRA clubhouse on the entertainment region's grounds.

Lower Seletar Reservoir Park - Just 8 minutes' drive from North Gaia EC, its peaceful waters, alleviating breezes and serene enveloping gives an enchanting spot to unwinding works out, both aground and in water. Counting a Family Bay with another display stage, a water play district, a bioswale deluge garden, similarly as a Heritage Bridge, it gives a wide scope of activities for everyone to appreciate. It is similarly a notable placed for health sweethearts setting out on loosened up strolls or runs, while the wharf gives an ideal spot to impassioned anglers to pull in their next enormous catch.

Sembawang Beach Park - It is one of the last hardly any typical coastlines in Singapore and is uncommonly notable with anglers, bird-watchers and water sports aficionados. Sembawang Hot Spring Park - About 6 minutes' drive North Gaia EC, the geothermally warmed water is acknowledged to have therapeutic and helpful attributes that can help with soothing ailments like sickness, joint irritation and even skin issues. Numerous people visit the spot to assimilate their feet the Cascading Foot Bath Pool and some even cook their eggs with the underground spring water.

[snackpointcharlie]

Puncturing the acrid haze comes an all-new Snackpoint Charlie, obscure music from around the world plus various bleeps and gurges hurtling at you through the ionosphere. This week’s ooey gooey rich and chewy transmission is now podcast-enabled, retrieve your own personal copy at https://wavefarm.org/wf/archive/sv6fn5

Snackpoint Charlie - Transmission 070 - 2021.07.21 PLAYLIST

1) Russ Garcia - “Into Space” from FANTASTICA - MUSIC FROM OUTER SPACE https://www.discogs.com/Russ-Garcia-And-His-Orchestra-Fantastica-Music-From-Outer-Space/master/172403

2) Don Tiki - “All Quiet Flows The Don” from HOT LIKE LAVA https://dontiki.bandcamp.com/album/hot-like-lava

3) Mattias Uneback - “Silent World” from VOYAGE BENEATH THE SEA https://ixtahuele.bandcamp.com/album/voyage-beneath-the-sea

(underbed throughout:) Pinetop Gherkins - “Flaming Necco Wafers”

4) Sun Ra - “Cosmic Forces” from SPACE IS THE PLACE (FILM SOUNDTRACK) https://www.discogs.com/Sun-Ra-Space-Is-The-Place-40th-Anniversary-Edition/release/7609254

5) “Dance Music” from MUSIC OF THE GHAWAZEE الغوازي https://www.discogs.com/Aisha-Ali-Music-Of-The-Ghawazee-%D8%A7%D9%84%D8%BA%D9%88%D8%A7%D8%B2%D9%8A/release/1969415

6) Mamman Sani - “Mugun Magain” from LA MUSIQUE ELECTRONIQUE DU NIGER https://www.newburycomics.com/collections/exclusive-vinyl/products/mamman_sani-la_musique_electronique_du_niger_exclusive_lp?variant=29148212428905 https://www.discogs.com/Mammane-Sani-Et-Son-Orgue-La-Musique-%C3%89lectronique-Du-Niger/release/14374529 incorporating excerpts from Tony Schwartz ’s NEW YORK 19 https://www.discogs.com/Tony-Schwartz-New-York-19/master/1326649

7) 하춘화 (Ha Choon-Hwa) - “영암아리랑 ” from 하춘화 민요 스테레오 2집 (STEREO FOLK SONGS VOL. 2) https://www.discogs.com/%ED%95%98%EC%B6%98%ED%99%94-%ED%95%98%EC%B6%98%ED%99%94-%EB%AF%BC%EC%9A%94-%EC%8A%A4%ED%85%8C%EB%A0%88%EC%98%A4-2%EC%A7%91/release/12571872

8) Françoise Hardy - “Voilà” from FRANÇOISE HARDY https://www.discogs.com/Fran%C3%A7oise-Hardy-Fran%C3%A7oise-Hardy/master/541204

9) The Gang of Harry Roesli - Don't Talk About Freedom” from THOSE SHOCKING SHAKING DAYS: INDONESIAN HARD, PSYCHEDELIC, PROGRESSIVE ROCK AND FUNK 1970-1978 https://nowagainrecords.bandcamp.com/album/va-those-shocking-shaking-days

10) Oren Ambarchi - “Quixotism” from QUIXOTISM PART 2 https://www.discogs.com/Oren-Ambarchi-Quixotism/master/797708

11) Rambutan - “System 9 (Mike Bullock • Phil Todd • Jefferson Pitcher • Eric Hardiman)” from PARALLEL SYSTEMS https://rambutan.bandcamp.com/album/parallel-systems

12) Relly Coloma - “Dinggin (Listen)” from ENCHANTING PHILIPPINE MUSIC https://www.discogs.com/Relly-Coloma-Enchanting-Philippine-Music/release/3316742

13)  Σταύρος Ξαρχάκος (Stavros Xarchakos) - “Αλισβερίσι” from ΜΟΝΑΣΤΗΡΆΚΙ ΚΑΙ ΤΕΤΡΆΓΩΝΟ https://www.discogs.com/%CE%A3%CF%84%CE%B1%CF%8D%CF%81%CE%BF%CF%82-%CE%9E%CE%B1%CF%81%CF%87%CE%AC%CE%BA%CE%BF%CF%82-Stavros-Xarchakos-%CE%9C%CE%BF%CE%BD%CE%B1%CF%83%CF%84%CE%B7%CF%81%CE%AC%CE%BA%CE%B9-%CE%9A%CE%B1%CE%B9-%CE%A4%CE%B5%CF%84%CF%81%CE%AC%CE%B3%CF%89%CE%BD%CE%BF/release/3197237

14) David Tukhmanov - “Heart, My Heart” from ON THE CREST OF MY MEMORY https://www.discogs.com/David-Tukhmanov-On-The-Crest-Of-My-Memory/release/2251230

15) Hongthong Dao-udon - “Bo Mi Phi Thi Isan (Isan Without You)” from BUMP LAM PHLOEN: ESSENTIAL HONGTHONG DAO-UDON https://emrecords.bandcamp.com/album/bump-lam-phloen-essential-hongthong-dao-udon

16) The Oneness of Juju - “Black Unity” from VOLUME 2: NIA https://www.discogs.com/Oneness-Of-Juju-Chapter-Two-Nia/release/14941076

17) Maa Semou - excerpt from AMATEUR EXOTIC'S CIRCLES OF LIFE https://soundcloud.com/amateur-exotic/maa-semou-amateur-exotics-circles-of-life?in_system_playlist=personalized-tracks%3A889696%3A792930364

18) Pacific Sounds - “Chattering Birds, Pauoa Gulch, O‘ahu” from ALOHA ‘AINA, VOLUME 3: FIELD RECORDINGS OF HAWAII https://pacificsounds.bandcamp.com/album/aloha-aina-volume-3-field-recordings-of-hawaii

[pinkhourvenus]

thanks to my beloved bby @sofiafabulousphan for tagging me!! im finally doing this after procrastinating HAAHA ILY

Rules: if you do it, tag a few blogs that you adore.

What’s your favoUrite song to sing/hum? UlgO ShIpJi aNhAAAA

What is your favorite flower/tree/plant? 

i’ve nvr paid much attention to plants cause as a kid i was quite good at science except the plants part.But there was one point when i actually searched up different flowers and the meaning of it cause i was interested in making clay necklaces based off the flowers as a gift to my friends lmao. call me mainstream but i think i like roses the best?Like all the different coloured ones symbolises different things and i personally find myself very interesting in a way that if my personality was written as a book it would be those huge ass dictionaries in libraries. I like trees a lot mainly because its really hot in mlysia therefore trees are there to be my shade. also!! trees that bear fruits (mango,rambutan’,papaya) except for durian trees HAHA

Favorite colour?black,light pink and red!

What do you always doodle (if you ever do doodle anything)? 

eyes? i have a lot of artistic friends and they draw really well so they taught me how to draw an eye, i mostly write hangul tho for practice rather than doodle

How do you make your coffee/tea? (if you don’t like those: What is your favorite hot drink?)

i lovEee tea. Iced tea, hot tea,herbal tea, i really love it all :DD but my fav iced tea would be iced peach tea and as for hot tea i’ve been drinking this rose with french vanilla tea (fAnCY HAHA) cause my previous fav which was peppermint and honey finished *cries*. the way i make it is pretty universal, just dump the teabag in the cup then pour hot water over it lmao im lazy. I like coffee like lattes!! ice lattes are nice and i really like instant packet coffee (am i the only one HAHA)

Favorite candle scent? Vanilla tbh ikea used to sell the cookie scented ones which were my fav but they stopped selling it so oh well 

Sunrise or sunset? sunset! im not a morning person lolol

What perfume do you wear (if you do)? 

meagan got for me the same perfume that cheol used apparently and its called peach blossom from w.dressroom!! i really really like it not cause of cheol but the fact that i really love the smell of peaches though i’ve never smelled them before artificial scents are good enough to convince me HAHA 

What’s your go to dance move when you’re alone?

 i usually headbang most of the time HAHA 

 Favorite quote? live in the moment but don’t regret your actions in the future

Favorite self care thing(s) or routine(s)?

mmm i think i take care of myself by cooking whatever i want to eat. im not the type of person who can starve for the whole day unless im sick. i like feeding myself well so i cook a lot of good food for myself but sadly now my kitchen has been undergoing reno for the past month so i havent gotten a chance to cook lately. also by spoiling myself with whatever i would like to buy AHAHA and if i ever feel sad i would tell myself that i can cry about it but only for a short while cause yknow i gotta move on in life. im a pretty optimistic person and try to look on the bright side or try to make it up lmao i cant stand seeing myself being so sad after whatever shits i’ve been through though its nothing serious 

12. Fuzzy socks or house slippers? bare feet HAHA

13. What colour are your eyes? brb gonna check.ok im back. its a realllly dark brown

14. What’s your favorite eye colour on others? whatever colour that suits them i guess. i dont really care lmao

15. Favorite season? Why?in a tropical country like malaysia we only have three seasons, one where its hot af and doesnt rain for like 6 days, two, where it rains every damn day and floods we could be part of the indian ocean, three, where its fucking hot in the morning and rains like no tmrrw in the evening istg if you’re visiting mlysia pls bring an umbrella with you at all times you never know when it’ll rain. i’ve only experienced winter and summer so far but i believe i’ll like spring a lot! its during my birth month and apparently its cold but quite warm as well? also spring clothing is so cute n i wanna try those special spring food!

16. Cheek, neck or nose kisses?

all i guess lmao i love physical affection

17. What does your happy place look like? a room which serves as a kitchen as well as my bedroom

18. Favorite breed of dog? GOLDEN RETRIEVERS,my neighbour has one and shes the sweetest little bub

19. Do you ever want to be married? If so what colours would you pick for your wedding theme?yep i would like to get married~~ ermm probs some warm yet light colours? rose gold would be nice!

20. Silk or lace? im fine with both 

21. Favorite weather? rainy with no thunder and warm cloudy days~

Tagging; im not sure if yall did this yet but oh well @djstarzx @vermemesol @lynnalai yall are all i have ;-; ily

[dietsauthority]

19 Super Healthy Foods You Never Knew Existed

You may unknown concerning the healthy foods below, but that's OKAY due to the fact that you're not alone. These are foods that don't typically make the wish list, however are entitled to a spot in your basket many thanks to the healthy and balanced advantages they supply. If you satisfaction on your own on your knowledge of food, you probably have some suggestion. Take the test as well as see the amount of these 19 foods you understood about. Simply be certain to keep an eye out for them the following time you're out obtaining groceries.

1. Arame

Unless you're from Japan you possibly really did not learn about arame, a particular sort of kelp that is in fact great for you. It consists of nutrients like Vitamin A Vitamin K, and can be included in soups for added texture and nourishment. Despite the fact that it's a sort of seaweed, it doesn't have that seaweed scent to it that you could have experienced with other forms of kelp. It's really rather flexible to cook with, so if you have actually been shying away from making use of seaweed, although you know it benefits you, this is a fantastic one to begin with.

2. Rambutan

When you initially see a rambutan you might believe it's a fruit from some unusual world. It appears like a sea urchin pulled from the depths of the sea, but is really a fruit that grows on trees. Don't allow the prickly outside fool you, within is a soft and also scrumptious fruit that you'll want to obtain to understand. Other than the superb taste rambutan has some excellent wellness benefits, and also has also been used medicinally in some parts of the world. It includes a good quantity of Vitamin C, in addition to crucial minerals like phosphorus, iron, manganese, as well as copper, all of which your body needs to function at its best.

3. Romanesco

Romanesco looks like something you might develop making use of a Spirograph, and appears like broccoli and also cauliflower clashed in a great banquet for the eyes. In enhancement to its pretty look, it also loads the dietary punch you would certainly expect if broccoli as well as cauliflower had an infant. It is an excellent source of fiber, as well as is an unusual resource of veggie healthy protein. It's additionally packed with Vitamin C, potassium, and Vitamin B6, so it boasts a wide spectrum of minerals and vitamins for your overall wellness as well as well-being. Utilize it like you would certainly broccoli or cauliflower for a good adjustment of speed and better presentation.

4. Bitter Melon

This healthy food goes by several names, consisting of Bitter Melon, Bitter Gourd, or Bitter Squash, and resembles a mutated cucumber. This is one food you don't want to stay in the dark around since it has lots of health advantages you can take advantage of. For example, it has a soothing effect on the digestive system, and also is also used medicinally to treat an indigestion. Even if you don't have a stomachache it is still a great idea to include this to your routine veggie turning due to the fact that it's able to exterminate bloodsuckers and other unwelcome entities in the gastrointestinal tract.

5. Sea Buckthorn

You may have observed Sea Buckthorn as an added ingredient in health and wellness beverages, or as a nutritional supplement, however did you understand that it's additionally a berry you can consume straight? The berry itself has a bitter preference, so it's not recommended to eat them raw, but you could discover them prepared and use them in various dishes. While even more research should be conducted on its useful results on the body in relation to such points as cancer and also cardiovascular conditions, just what is understood is that it is high in Vitamin C as well as Vitamin E, along with amino acids as well as crucial minerals that make this an obscure fruit that awaits mainstream popularity.

6. Yacon

Yacon possibly hasn't made its method into your shopping cart, and also perhaps even your ball of knowledge, yet it has enough dietary worth that you could wish to get up to speed with it in a hurry. You could make use of every one of the different components of the yacon plant, as well as it has actually shown positive signs as being an anti-cancer food, along with improving the function of the liver. Foods and also beverages that help the liver do its task are extremely important, as this is the body organ that aids the remainder of the organs do their jobs, and also has a kind of trickle down effect.

7. Chia Seeds

Most people learn about Chia Pets, yet did you recognize that chia seeds are an extremely healthy and balanced food you're probably not eating? The omega-3 web content in chia seeds is what makes them a super star, and their tiny dimension means you can add them to just regarding anything, even sprinkling them in addition to a main course for an instantaneous nourishment increase. They're suggested for diabetics, and have a lot of fiber for being as small as they are. They're additionally a non-meat resource of healthy protein, and have a great setting up of minerals that will assist round you out for the day.

8. Shilajit

Shilajit is a material that you won't be adding to any of your meals anytime soon, yet the health and wellness advantages it could offer have been widely documented, and also scientific research appears to be backing them up as opposed to debunking them. This is a tar-like uniformity and also is located within hills, yet don't fret you can obtain it in supplement form. It is said to help with whatever from diabetic issues as well as cognitive function to impotence and fertility problems. The cosmetics of shilajit varies depending upon where it is gathered, that makes it a bit challenging ahead to any conclusions on just what it can aid with, and also which variation is the most healthy.

9. Amaranth

Amaranth is growing in appeal as gluten-free diet regimens continue their higher trend, however numerous still aren't sure regarding it or its remarkable health advantages. It's a gluten-free grain that packs lots of protein, calcium, magnesium, iron, fiber, and healthy and balanced fatty acids, making it a fantastic thing to use as replacement for various other grains. It can help with lowering cholesterol degrees, lowering swelling in the body, stopping cancer, assistance get your high blood pressure to healthy levels, build muscle mass, and create more energy to shed up. It's time to choose amaranth and also include it to your cart the following time you're out shopping. It's simply that helpful for you.

10. Mungbean

Mungbeans are a little bit like common beans yet take a look and also top qualities all their own. You could have found them in the supermarket prior to, but really did not know exactly what they were. They could assist you handle your cholesterol degrees and are a respectable resource of vegetable healthy protein if you're seeking to reduce the amount of meat in your diet regimen. Promising research study shows that there may be a link in between mungbeans and quiting cancer cells growth, as well as assistance for postmenopausal ladies in reducing several of the most common symptoms.

11. Nutritional Yeast

Nutritional yeast might not look like a lot when you initially see it. It has a flakey, grainy uniformity and also since it's called yeast it's tough to imagine adding it to anything aside from bread dough. It has protein and also fiber in it, as well as can be sprinkled on very much anything for a taste upgrade and a dietary boost. It's low in salt, although it will certainly provide a little bit of a salty preference also, as well as it has B Vitamins so you're getting these essential nutrients as well. Nutritional yeast is a great replacement for cheese and goes fantastic on popcorn as a covering that will in fact profit you.

12. Purple Potatoes

Surely you recognize regarding normal potatoes, but exactly how regarding their purple cousins? These have a color that makes them resemble they typically aren't really potatoes, however they still have all the basic dietary components of potatoes, plus added ones many thanks to their purple coloration. They have extra antioxidants in them due to their color, the kind you commonly discover in brightly tinted fruits. These antioxidants can really work marvels if taken in regularly. There is proof that shows these can assist with high blood pressure, the body immune system, and also even specific kinds of heart disease.

13. Camu Camu Powder

Camu camu may not get on your radar, yet it's one of the healthier foods around, although it is in minimal supply and also includes a hefty price. It's understood for its high degrees of Vitamin C, which alone places it on the map as one of the best resources of Vitamin C extra pound for extra pound. It likewise consists of potassium and also phosphorus, and also is gluten-free so it can be made use of on a large range of diet strategies. It's been declared to assist with problems like high cholesterol, hypertension, viral infections as well as more.

14. Mangosteens

These adorable little individuals are covered by a thick outer shell that you open up to reveal a succulent white fleshy fruit. The fruit has lots of antioxidants, which will certainly aid the body repel the damage done by complimentary radicals. You could eat mangosteen straight, or utilize it in a dish, or blend it up as component of a shake with various other antioxidant rich fruits. There is lots of fiber in mangosteen, which will aid your digestion as well as enhance your overall health and wellness. There is additionally a great mix of vitamins as well as important minerals that it offers, making it more than just a one trick horse with its antioxidants.

15. Turmeric Root

Turmeric origin has a lot of healthy properties, yet you might just know it from its use in Indian cuisine. It's been used medicinally for ages, as well as it's documented as an anti-inflammatory food that can aid with instances of IBD, as well as can also help prevent cancer. These are the kind of things that make information headlines, and also turmeric has actually obtained its share of press, although you may not have actually been able to figure out how you can integrate it right into your diet. You could use it in cooking ground up as a seasoning, brew tea with it, or add it to dressings and also dips.

16. Black Garlic

Don' t be alarmed, this garlic hasn't already gone negative, it's just matured. The aging procedure provides it health benefits along with the ones that garlic currently possesses. This is a means of doubling up on nourishment, while adding a special taste to a dish. It's unique not only due to the means it looks as well as tastes, but also as a result of the price. Black garlic includes a much greater price than regular garlic, but due to all the anti-oxidants it includes it doesn't seem to be stopping its increase in popularity. Garlic lovers must offer this an attempt to see if they get hooked on it or not.

17. Kohlrabi

This strange veggie resembles a cross in between a cabbage and a turnip, as well as loads some serious nourishment. The terrific component is that it is extremely functional, and also can be eaten raw or formulated right into any type of variety of dishes. It makes an excellent side recipe, and offers lots of nutrients without being calorically thick. It could aid with your food digestion thanks to the fiber it consists of, and also is even great for the immune system and blood circulation system as a result of its Vitamin C material and also low degrees of fat and cholesterol. You'll most definitely intend to attempt it out as a brand-new veggie to widen your palate.

18. Teff

Teff is a grain that is the seed of a grass as well as is a wonderful gluten-free option for those wanting to sub out grains including gluten. It is high in calcium, which could be helpful if you're wanting to reduce back on milk without losing out on the calcium web content. It's likewise abundant in vitamins, specifically the B Vitamins, in addition to plenty of minerals like manganese, iron, as well as magnesium. It's got lots of fiber in addition to omega-3 fatty acids so it can help your body do its work and fire on its greatest cylinders.

19. Maca Powder

You've just reached keep some maca powder helpful in the cooking area. You could use it in all kind of means, and also it offers numerous advantages that it's a pity more individuals don't understand concerning it. It's originated from a radish-like root of the maca plant, and has a broad variety of nutrients, while offering you an energy boost and improving your skin. There is also proof that this powder can aid you develop lean muscle when absorbed combination with a weight-lifting regimen.

[gondowan]

Doing this for Yves Ryder! Art is commissioned from my lovely son Shy (@f0ffff) <3 

1. ANIMAL: hedgehog. 

2. COLOR(S): purple, green, and silver

3. MONTH: June because it’s right on the cusp of summer and not quite 

4. SONG(S): So Young by Portugal the Man, Lizard Eyes (Auxiliary tha Masterfader Remix) by The Boy & Sister Alma, and Creature Comfort by Arcade Fire! 

5. NUMBER: 9

6. DAY OR NIGHT: Afternoon :’D

7. PLANT(S): sunflower, spider lilies, chrysanthemum (she likes cheery flowers)

8. SMELL(S): LEMONGRASS! LAVENDER! 

9. GEMSTONE: Ruby

10. SEASON: Summer

11. PLACE(S): the ocean/bodies of water/her bed 

12. FOOD(S): coconut milk with tapioca is her favorite dessert, anything with lychees or rambutan, Chinese liver sausage (the kind that smells like a foot) with rice, annnnnnnd mustard greens. 

13. ASTROLOGICAL SIGN: Libra

14. ELEMENT(S): Water

15. DRINK(S): Patron, Reyka vodka, grass jelly, Wong Lo Kat herbal drink, Vitasoy malt soy drink, and water. 

In sum, Yves is AGGRESSIVELY CANTONESE. In my universe, Alec and Ellen take the twins back to Earth to visit Hong Kong every few years or so even if they were born on the Citadel. 

tagged by @pathfindersemail 

tagging @sybillspace @ladyinthebluebox @joz-stankovich @salty-stella @monochromenyghtmare and anyone else :D

[canbrake8-blog]

Vietnam, Part 2

Hitting the road again, or the skies I should say (although we did one bus ride during our trip – more about that later…), we touched down in Da Nang, specifically to visit The Museum of Cham Sculpture, a museum that is not to be missed if you’re in Vietnam.

I forgot all my deities since I stopped doing yoga (such as Ganesha and Shiva, and how one guy got that elephant head, and why Shiva is wearing that snake around their neck – and smiling about it), so it’s good to do a little reading about them before you go to help you understand more about the artifacts in this museum. We took an 8am flight out of Ho Chi Minh airport, landing about an hour later, and taking a taxi right from the airport to the museum, which is only 3km away (I’ve given some tips at the end of the post about using taxis in Vietnam, that are worth noting), so it was easy to get there and spend the morning looking at the remarkable sculptures and friezes, many dating back to the 4th century.

I have the lowest museum attention span in the world, and two hours in this museum was just the right about of time to take it all in. Then I grabbed a Grab to take us to Hoi An, where we spent the next two nights. The old town of Hoi An is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and its traditional architecture is well-preserved, although not overly so. It still has a bit of funk, in spite of quite a few tourists (including us) roaming the streets.

Someone told me Hoi An is the most touristed town in Vietnam and it’d be hard to disagree. At night, the historic old town is jumping with people strolling by, and shops selling stuff, as well as locals offering everything from boat rides and fruit, to silk scarves (the town is known for its silk) and leather sandals. People also come to Hoi An to have suits and clothing made for them, and you’ll find several streets lined with custom tailor shops. Someone told me that if you bring a picture of what you like; a suit, a dress, or a shirt, they’ll make it for you, and have it ready in a day or two. I grew up wearing ties and jackets to school every day, so it takes a pretty compelling reason (or event) to get me into a suit, so I passed, but could have used a few more linen shirts since the ones I brought were splattered with Pho and dragon fruit stains.

Outside of the old town, we found more interesting things than in the old town, like the jumble of housewares being sold on a sidewalk, below, and spa treatments at White Rose Spa. We learned back in Ho Chi Minh City that massages and facials are very inexpensive in Vietnam, and mostly very good, so we’d indulged with our friends there, and now, here. (Note that it’s customary to tip if you had a good treatment.)

In Hoi An, we had a very good meal at Vy’s Market (the lime leaf chicken skewers were particularly good, as was the tofu skin salad), which someone online wrote was “sanitized” street food. It may have been, but we liked it all the same. Very fresh ingredients, nice servers, and tasty. Cao Lau Bale Well (45/3 Train Hung Dao) was recommended by several people (not locals) and while we found the place interesting, the Cao Lau noodles weren’t all that compelling. It was, however, charming, located off a side street in what was probably part of their home. They were also really nice, which made it…fine.

Another meal was at Nu. A sweet little place where the steamed pork buns were good, as was the chili ice cream we had for dessert. You won’t be the only English-speaking people dining there, but we liked it. There’s also a night market with an indoor eating area for street food, which I’d check out if I went back. If you want a taste of Egg Coffee, I had one at Passion Fruit coffee that even my skeptical partner liked. (I tried to compare it to sabayon, but he wasn’t having any of that.)

We stayed at the Vinh Hung Riverside hotel located on the river, not far from the old town, but far enough away so you were a decent distance from the fray. The staff was unfailingly polite and helpful and we had a nice room on the river, although I’d recommend perhaps staying in a room that’s not on the ground floor. I didn’t want to sleep with the door open so we shut everything and turned on the AC. The button on the machine was so bright that it was like a spotlight over us, in the room, which made it a bit difficult to sleep. It wasn’t really hot enough to warrant the AC, but we used it instead of keeping the door open. (Unfortunately, the unit was high on the wall and there wasn’t anything to block the light with, but I just discovered these, and am thinking of traveling with them because so many hotels have appliances and switches with really bright lights. Can people really sleep with all those lights flickering and glowing in the dark?) But we liked the hotel, which had a nice pool, and the breakfast offered a variety of Vietnamese foods and fruits. I gorged on rambutans, mangoes, and passion fruits.

We then took the 2-hour bus to Hue, which ended up taking a little more than 4 1/2 hours. The bus had funny, sort-of lie back seats, which looked appealing when I first saw them, but anyone taller than 5 feet (or who has never done yoga) might feel a bit squished after a while. (Another spoiler: You couldn’t sit upright in the seat, even if you wanted to.) While the bus had pillows, which Romain and some others grabbed for propping themselves up, the driver bellowed at anyone who took one, so they sheepishly put them back. I was okay lying halfway down for an afternoon, although some people were going all the way to Hanoi, and I’m sure they will need a few massage treatments to uncoil them once they arrive.

I hate to post the obligatory “I’m in paradise” shot, especially when so many of you (or us, which now includes me) are back in the cold. But this was a pretty beautiful spot in Hue.

It was our hotel, the Pilgrimage Village. It was located a little out-of-town, but the hotel had a shuttle and cabs were inexpensive (about $3 -4) to take you anywhere you wanted to go. So it wasn’t a problem going back and forth.

I was especially interested in going to the Dong Ba market in Hue. There was a lot to see there, and when our taxi driver dropped us off, he took Romain’s shoulder bag off his shoulder, and wrapped the handles around his neck, letting him know the keep his eyes on his things.

The market is pretty much an all-out assault of foods, spices, people, stuff, cookware, raw meat, kids, hats, seafood, fabric, jewelry, eyeglasses, bins of rice, tropical fruits, and more. Once you’re inside, you’ve pretty much go to go all-in. Even though the electricity seemed to be off in the market, we surged forward with everyone. If you stand still, within seconds, someone will slide past, through the narrow aisles with tables heaped with stuff on either side of you, and while it wasn’t at all dangerous, it’d be pretty easy to lose a billfold if you weren’t mindful of it.

Some people have said that the sellers were very aggressive here, although we didn’t find that to be too much of the case. Like other markets in Vietnam (except for the ones we went to in Ho Chi Minh City, if you stopped to look at anything, or even glance at it, the vendor will do their best to engage you and negotiate a price, even if you don’t really want it. It’s not my preferred way to shop, but that’s the way it’s done. Which was probably better for me anyway, as I didn’t have as so much to lug home. Although those colorful jars of pickled vegetables were certainly tempting!

We did track down the well-known Bun bo Hue (beef soup) stand, which is in the “street food” section of the market. (There’s a story about how to find it here.) We were a little underwhelmed, as the people next to us seemed to be. Maybe it was an off day, but if you look at the Bun bo Hue we had later that evening, two pics down, I’ll let you decide which soup looks better to you.

If you do go to the market in Hue, I would hire a guide, or take a tour of the market with someone who knows it well. It’s pretty overwhelming and there’s a lot of see, and taste, which isn’t so easy to do on your own. It’s definitely one of the great markets I’ve been to in the world, and worth exploring. But there was so much I wanted to know more about, it would have been nice to have someone navigate for us, and explain what things were, like these orange fruits (or vegetables?)

We ate well that night at Tai Phu where the Bun bo Hue (below) was more to my liking.

We also had some good Banh cuon (rice paper rolls) at Tai Phu, and Romain liked his Bun thit (vermicelli noodles with chicken) but the dish of the house seemed to be the pork skewers (nem lui), which came in a plentiful portion with green mango slices, noodles, and herbs, to roll in rice paper.

[A reader who lives in Hue was kind enough to chime in with some local spots for Bun bo Hue – thanks smallhue! – suggesting Bún Cam at 45 Le Loi and Bún Mụ Roi at 14 Nguyen Che Dieu, that she advised getting to before 8am for the best selection of “options,” as she called them. Our hotel had breakfast on a dock under a thatched roof, with unlimited Vietnamese coffees, so I wasn’t leaving there.]

If you eat at Tai Phu, be sure to arrive in the area early and walk around the streets, where an open-air market takes place. It’s pretty laid back, and like all the markets in Vietnam, you want to cry at how beautiful all the fruits and vegetables are, stacked, lined, and piled up. I think it’s called the Ben Ngu market.

The most beautiful meal we had in Vietnam was at a place whose name I forgot (I know…right?) It had a little open-air area within the restaurant, and from the outside, you’d never know such a charming place existed. When I remember the name, I’ll update the post.

However beautiful the meal was, it was a challenge to eat. Absolutely no offense to the restaurant, but the flavors were very, very strong, and hard to describe. I think, like Vegemite, natto, and blue cheese, some things don’t translate outside their culture. I can’t describe it but I felt bad leaving most of it behind. I also wasn’t feeling so great that day, so it was hard to power through a meal of distinctive flavors. But I will say, the others in the restaurant were eating everything and enjoying it, so it was definitely our tastes, and didn’t reflect on the quality (and the beauty) of the food.

We liked eating at HANH, in Hue, the night we arrived, which was recommended by a woman at our hotel. We started with tiny bowls holding steamed rice cakes with fresh shrimp and bits of crunchy pork rinds, which you pry from the bowls with a spoon and eat with fish sauce. I ordered a bottle of what was called “local rice wine” in English on the menu, and out came a 500ml (2 cup) bottle of “Men vodka.”

When I posted a picture on Instagram, one reader noted it was “just awful stuff” and another said, “terrible…unpleasant.” I asked the server if I could exchange it for shochu, which was so strong, I think I lost a few layers of enamel on my teeth trying to, and a couple of layers of my stomach lining, as I didn’t want to be impolite and leave a lot behind. I drank what I could, then chalked it up to a “lesson learned”! Perhaps the kitchen staff enjoyed the rest after their shift.

After returning to Ho Chi Minh City, we didn’t get to go back to Spice, which we really like the first night of our arrival, because it was Tet (New Year’s), which most of the city shuts down, including restaurants.

But we did eat at Quan Bui Garden (in District 2), where you can also buy beautiful contemporary Vietnamese pottery (I brought six plates back), and Restaurant 13, where we liked the beef and onions cooked in vinegar, which you wrap in rice paper rolls at the table, as well as the little crisp rice cakes, with shrimp and scallions, known as Banh Khot (above), which you wrap in leaves and eat.

At Com Nieu Sai Gon there were several families there celebrating Tet, and having a good time. We had jellied pork, crispy fish on rice (above), Caramelized clay Pot pork, and grilled prawns. (The menu had “fake dog meat” on it, which we didn’t order.) We kept hearing plates shatter, while people cheered, and weren’t sure what was happening. But the restaurant bakes rice until a crisp coating forms on the bottoms in small earthenware bowls. The rice is “presented” by smashing the bowl. It’s called Com Dap, and here’s a video of it:

I also met up with pals Marge Perry and David Bonom, who just happened to also be traveling through Vietnam at the same time, for Banh Mi sandwiches from Banh Mie Huynh Hoa, eating them at a local beer garden, whose men’s room was definitely rated R (or maybe X, depending on your sensibilities). I did take photos but worried that they would violate Instagram’s guidelines (and trust me, even after a few decades of living in San Francisco, I thought nothing would shock me), so didn’t publish them anywhere. But David and I are still recovering from it, and even Marge, who I insisted go into the men’s room for a look.

But I don’t want to leave you on that note, as Vietnam was wonderful. Some readers asked me how it was to travel through the country and I thought it was pretty great. On the whole, it was fairly easy to travel there and people were friendly and helpful. The food was very good, it’s not expensive, and the country is small enough so that you can visit several places if you’re there for ten days or so. It’s a country that’s in transition (they’ve gone through a lot), and has some challenges, but it was one of the most exciting places I’ve ever visited and next year, we’re planning to go back.

Here are some tips and suggestions for traveling in Vietnam:

1. Change money when you can. It’s not as easy to change money in Vietnam as it is elsewhere. While there are banks, locals don’t use them, instead preferring to change money elsewhere, if they can. Citibank and HSBC have ATMs which work with western credit cards; some local bank machines don’t work with U.S.-based cards. Citibank and HSBC ATMs are not everywhere, though, so use them when you find them. 

Many places take credit cards in Vietnam, but some places don’t. Taxis have credit card machines but over half the time, the driver told me they weren’t functioning. (One held up a broken wire, to show me.) So have cash available. Also be sure to call your bank before you go, to let them know you’ll be traveling in Vietnam.

2. Carry tissues or napkins. Some restaurants supply them, others have very small squares of wispy-thin paper to use, and others give you a pre-moistened towelette. The food can be saucy (and restrooms don’t always have towels or tissues) so I was glad I have little tissue packets on hand. You should also carry toilet tissue as restrooms don’t always have it.

3. Drink a lot of (bottled) water. The tap water should not be consumed and it’s easy to get dehydrated due to the heat. I was felled for a day with a mild fever, which maybe was attributed to not getting enough water. (Or perhaps something I ate.) While there are drugstores in Vietnam, they are more like counters with a pharmacist and pills are sold individually. Although we didn’t need them, some travelers find they need Immodium or a similar product, which traveling, so I recommend bringing a box along rather than trying to find a box when you’re desperate.

Similarly, you can get sunscreen in Vietnam, but it’s not as widely available as it may be at home. I recommend bringing a bottle or two, especially if you’re planning any beach time.

4. When eating out, especially at the markets or street food stalls, go to places that are crowded with locals. They won’t return to places that don’t have good hygiene. Use common sense when eating at stalls; look at how clean the surrounding area is, how the food is kept, how the food is prepared, and even the condition of the tables, chairs, and dining area. As someone who’s worked in a number of restaurant kitchens, a messy, disorganized place is not the sign of a diligent cook or owner.

At Pho places on the street, I buried the herbs in the hot soup if I thought they may have been washed with non-filtered water. If you’re unsure about the chopsticks, leave them in the boiling-hot soup a short while before using them. The Vietnamese enjoy cold drinks with ice and I drank plenty of drinks with ice, and didn’t have any issues. Most ice is purchased and made with filtered water. But if you have any doubts, skip the ice.

5. If taking a cab, always take a cab with a meter. Our friends who live there said that Vinasun and Mailinh (the green cabs) are two that have meters in them, and I always looked for one of those cabs. In our experience, it’s better to let them use the meter than agree on a fixed fare in advance. (The one time I did that, the ride was 30% more than the metered fare.) Taxis are very inexpensive and the fare from Ho Chi Minh City to or from the airport was around 150,000 VND ($7).

At places like airports, you’ll find nicely dressed guys with badges who will “guide” you from the cab line to a taxi, then tell you what the fare is. Those guys work for specific cab companies and I found it better to ignore them (in spite of their repeated, and sometimes relentless, pleadings…) and just get in a cab that has a meter. 

6. Grab is an Uber-like service that works the same way, via an app, which you can download before you go, but you’ll have to enter your credit card information while you’re in Vietnam. The service works like Uber. Note that you can order a car, or ride on the back of a scooter. (They provide a helmet for you if you choose the scooter option.) I used them a couple of times, including when we were swarmed by very aggressive cab drivers going into a museum (one even followed me around the museum), so I had a Grab driver meet me on the way out, and took his phone number down for future rides.

7. The currency conversion is a little complicated, at least to my non-mathematical brain. At the time of this writing, $1 = 23,000 Vietnamese Dong. There are no coins in Vietnam (yay!), but it’s easy to get confused. (And note that prices on menus and in shops will often be listed as just “230” when the price is 230,000.) I used AppBox Pro for currency conversions.

8. While it’s nice to learn the local language, Vietnamese is a challenge. I’m going to take some basic lessons next time I go, but Google translate was very helpful when I wanted specific information and couldn’t communicate. Some people do speak English, but most cab drivers (etc) don’t, so take a screenshot of an address or write it down (or have someone write it down for you), which helps, especially directions to the hotel. (Note that hotels that have names in English often have a different name in Vietnamese. Ask your hotel in advance to send you that information and print it out to bring with you, for the driver.) I often shared a screenshot with a cab driver of my destination on Google Maps, which they easily understood, too. Restaurants often have menus with pictures, which helps when ordering. 

9. People in Vietnam were quite friendly. I only got scolded once for taking a pic and most people were fine with it. When in doubt, ask first, but most people were surprised that I even asked, a few even posing.

10. SIM cards are super cheap – and my internet was at least four times faster than it is in Paris. (I wanted to bring it back with me!) If you have an unlocked phone, you can pick up a SIM card for a pittance and have internet access while you’re traveling. I got a SIM card at Mobifone and I think I paid the equivalent of $10 for an enormous amount of data. I went to one of their offices and the clerk was super-helpful and she took care of everything, making sure it worked on my phone before I left. Be sure to have a copy of your passport when purchasing a SIM card. (If you go to a currency conversion place, they’ll want to see it, too.)

11. If you travel within the country you’ll likely take VietJet. (The other option are long-distance buses.) Airfares are reasonable but note that they have a very, very restrictive carry-on allowance of only 7kg and if you go over, the supplement is $100. You can buy tickets that have more generous luggage allowance, but our friends who bought our tickets bought the least-expensive, which are how most Vietnamese people seem to fly (carry on only). Every flight we took that left in the afternoon or early evening was delayed for a couple of hours, so don’t schedule things too tight. We also weren’t able to check in online for any of our flights, but the process at the airport isn’t too difficult and the staff at the airports were pretty efficient. 

12. As for what to wear, I recommend dark-colored clothes as the food is a bit messy to eat, especially the soups. I ended up wearing the one dark, short sleeve linen shirt I’d brought most of the time, which was perfect, and I was miffed at myself for bringing light-colored items. It’s normal to wear sandals in Vietnam so bring a pair or two that are already broken in. Many people wear simple, non-fancy rubber sandals, which you can purchase inexpensively in Vietnam. I wasn’t anywhere where I needed to wear shoes, and once I took mine off, I didn’t put them back on until we headed to the airport for the plane home.

Depending on where you’re going, and when, you might want to pack a light sweater and a rain jacket. We only needed summer-weight clothes, but other places get chillier, depending on the latitude and season. Check the local forecast and pack accordingly. Unless you’re going to a formal event, you shouldn’t need any dressy clothes. If you plan to visit religious sites, such as temples and pagodas, men are expected to wear long pants and no tank tops; women should have something to cover bare shoulders, and you may not be admitted to certain places if wearing a short skirt or wear something with a low neckline.

13. If you want to ride a scooter, technically you are supposed to have a Vietnamese driver’s license. Some say that you can use an international driver’s license, but my friends who live there (who have Vietnamese ones) said that wasn’t the case. I rode on the back of my friend’s scooter for two weeks and it was a great way to get around. Some hotel rent bikes and scooters and I would use them, as they’re more familiar with the rules.

14. If you’re interested in cooking Vietnamese food, Andrea Nguyen’s cookbooks are great sources of recipes for Vietnamese dishes. This write-up of 25 Must-Eat Dishes in Saigon is helpful for identifying certain dishes, and where to find them in Ho Chi Minh City and these articles on best Hoi An restaurants and street food have some enticing addresses, too.

15. Lastly, to go to Vietnam, if you are traveling with an American passport, you’ll need a visa. If you search online, you’ll find a lot of websites which are fake visa processing centers. We used Vietnam Visa Center, which was recommended by Lonely Planet, and it worked well. (A friend who goes to Vietnam regularly uses this company.) We paid the extra small fee to have “fast track” service, and have someone meet us upon our arrival at the airport, and take us through. (Update: Several readers noted that Vietnam does have its own website for processing visas electronically. You can also obtain one from a Vietnamese embassy, too.)

For more on my trip to Vietnam, check out my Instagram Stories from Vietnam archived Here and Here, with videos and geo-tagged addresses.

Source: https://www.davidlebovitz.com/vietnam-part-2-hue-da-nang-hoi-an-phu-quoc-travel/

[laurallama52-blog]

There's Something About Koh Yao Noi: 13 Things To Do On This Island Paradise!

Koh Yao Noi is a postage stamp sized jungle island just 30 minutes from Phuket that holds countless treasures. Sure you can follow the well trodden paths but there's so much more to discover here with hidden local gems. Step back in time on this dreamy Thai island and one of my favourite destinations in Thailand.

There's something romantic about this tiny island. Perhaps it's the temperature which is a little less humid, less rainy and more pleasant due to the island's expansive coastline. Or maybe it's the vibe which is like Thailand 20 years ago. But while everyone works to keep its small island community vibe, that doesn't mean that they aren't welcoming to strangers.

The predominantly Muslim population are wonderfully friendly and sweet. Within 5 minutes of exploring a rambutan seller drove past us saying "Sawasdee-ka!" and everyone is smile ready.

Number 1: See Koh Yao Noi By Scooter

To get around and see this incredible island go by scooter (although Mr NQN will argue a bike is better). Scootering is easy and you don't need a scooter or motorbike license. The hotel we were staying at Cape Kudu has a gentleman who will rent scooters for 300THB a day right outside the hotel and that includes enough gas for a day's touring (if you need more you can fill it up yourself at a low cost of around 1 litre/20THB).

The locals are considerate drivers and it's an easy island to navigate with one main road circling the island. There are also side car scooters available for 600THB although these are a little less safe especially around the gently curving roads - we witnessed an accident involving tourists where they tipped over because they were going too fast around a corner and lost control.

Number 2: Drink Fresh Coconut Juice.

Cocobella

Around the west of the island is coconut farm where you can watch them harvest coconuts. Look for the coconut trees and the staff will wave you in.

Or head even further north to the northernmost inhabited tip of the island towards Cocobella where the coconut palms grow, you can stop and walk the view of the islands in the distance (including James Bond Island) while enjoying a fresh coconut grown at Cocabella's coconut plantation.

They weren't in season when we visited but we were more than content with a delicious fresh papaya shake and an iced coffee. It's also a place if you're looking for Italian food, coffee or gelato.

Number 3: Go To A Local Cafe

Past the coconut farm, head towards Tha Tondo Pier. It was under construction when we visited but if you walk towards the last cafe on the right called The Rest Calm, you can lie back in a hammock and snooze or lie back on the cushions and sip an iced coffee or tea (or try the soy milk, it's nutty and delicious).

Number 4: Eat Local Seafood

Just a few doors down on the street is what locals regard as one of the best restaurants on the island. Koh Yao Tha Tondo seafood is a simple restaurant that specialises in seafood. The prices are fantastic (150THB or $6AUD for prawn or crab dishes).

Tamarind prawns 150THB

The tamarind prawns are tasty and while they are famous for their fish covered with a blanket of crispy garlic (it was a tad dry to be honest) make sure to ask for their seaweed salad aka sea grape salad with som tum flavours (an off menu item).

Fish with garlic

It's like a som tum salad but made without green papaya, instead these gorgeous little bunches of tiny green caviar beads are deliciously refreshing and slightly salty.

Sea grape salad

There's no alcohol served here and food can take a while if there are other customers but you can busy yourself with watching tiny mudskippers make minute leaps and mud crabs bathe themselves in mud. It's better than meditating. And you won't find this place on tripadvisor (yet!).

Number 5: Hideout for a while

The Hideout is a unique treehouse hotel that is also a great place to stop for a drink and a swing on a hammock. It's hidden away up a dirt road and the rocky path takes about 5-8 minutes by scooter although it is not exactly easy driving (the humorous signs are encouraging) or allow 20 minutes walking.

The menu there is all about local and seasonal food and drinks. We tried a Hideout cola made with their own blend of spices (much like the way Coca Cola started as a tonic) and a kaffir limeade and both were wonderful and refreshing.

Look out for these signs

Number 6:. Walk across to Koh Nui At Low tide

Koh Nui island during high tide

Check the tide schedule and you can take a romantic walk along the beach and across the sandbank watching tiny sand bubbler crabs make patterns when they spit out little balls of sand twice a day to make their tunnels. You can also see horn-eyed ghost crabs as well as fiddler crab with one enormous claw.

Walking across during low tide

Number 7: Eat With A Rice Paddy View

With what may be one of the island's most tranquil views, you can feast on delicious local Thai food from the extensive menu while overlooking rice paddies. In the corner a water buffalo picks leaves from the trees while cyclists ride past and a tractor worker toils in the hot sun. Prices are reasonable and feature a lot of seafood.

Spicy fern vegetable salad with shrimp 120THB

You can of course get classics like massaman beef or pad Thai but it is worth seeking out the interesting dishes like the spicy fern vegetable salad with prawns and blanched greens. Or the fried banana blossom cakes (200THB) are delightful too along with the squid with garlic (180THB).

Banana blossom cakes

Number 8:. Sunset

A little warning: an amazing sunset can be an elusive beast on Koh Yao Noi because of the omnipresent clouds. During our entire stay there weren't any spectacular ones but if you happen to have a clear day head to Rice Paddy View Point or Laemsai Pier.

Number 9: Eat Amazing Late Night Roti

Come 7pm every night, I made my way to Rotee My Friend for a fix of fantastic roti. It's open every day but only from 7pm-10pm. It's also a favourite late night haunt for taxi drivers in lieu of an after work bar. Yes there are cats galore but be prepared for some amazing roti.

The Roti 20THB

The "The Roti" is roti tisu, a heavenly paper thin, super crispy roti glazed with sugar and sweetened condensed milk that comes pre-cut (I'm drooling thinking about this).

The Tender roti 20THB

While the "tender roti" is a softer version with the same flavours with roti that has been "clapped" to soften the edges and give it volume. It will be the best 20THB or $0.85AUD you'll spend.

Number 10: Cool Down With Coffee & Cake

Need a blast of air conditioning? Or maybe a fix of coffee, cake or a cookie? Cape Kudu's Cafe Kantary is a stylish white and blue cafe with indoor and outdoor seating. There's nothing quite like it on the island and there's a reason why people stop and take selfies or photos here. The coffee is said to be the best on the island and tip: get one of their soft choc chip cookies. In fact any of their cookies are great.

Number 11: Get Beached

Long Beach

There are perhaps better islands for beaches and sunbathing as the beaches are ringed by coral and rocks so you do need wait for high tide to go swimming but Koh Yao Noi's best beach is Long Beach a hidden away golden sand beach, the second best Pasai Beach. Be careful getting to Long Beach by scooter if it has been raining as you may have to deal with dirt roads, muddy paths and long grass.

Number 12: Do A Custom Cooking Class

There are no shortage of Thai cooking class and the cuisine itself really lends itself to shorter cooking classes as the food is simple to put together but very tasty and easy to replicate at home.

Most cooking schools specialise in the classics like spring rolls, green curry or tom yum soup but at Cape Kudu's cooking school you can also make special requests for custom classes to explore Southern style Thai cooking or the muslim food of KYN both of which I requested.

Delicious Muslim yellow rice with chicken

We made Thai chicken in gravy, a Muslim yellow rice with chicken that I had for breakfast and a Southern crab curry that you rarely see in Australia but is utterly delicious. It's a hands on cooking class so you do all the cooking under the guidance of chef Chan and an English speaking staff member who will help interpret. Better still you get to sit down and feast on everything that you have made.

Number 13: Eat at Kaya

The lovely little local restaurant is located on the south east of the island and the all female run restaurant has a large menu full of Thai favourites with very reasonable prices.

Service is absolutely delightful and you won't find a sweeter bunch. There's a reason why people eat here several times during their stay at KYN.

Try their sweet and rich massaman beef curry or you can always try a fusion way of serving green chicken curry with their green curry spaghetti which is absolutely delicious.

Desserts are mango and sticky rice when in season or the wonderful comfort of bananas simmered in coconut milk.

Number 14: Try Southern Style Street Food

There are plenty of street food stalls dotted around the island as well as mobile vendors. Many of them are around the Pasai Beach area although waterfront outdoor eateries mainly dominate there. if you want to try street food, head towards the 7/11 (yes it's a landmark and it was a big deal when the island got one).

Around that area there are plenty of street food vendors. There's a Southern style curry vendor who has four metal containers with different curries. Southern Thai style curries are lesser known due to lack of exposure but they're absolutely delicious with a saltier and more sour flavour - you won't really find overly sweet numbers. You can choose a curry or two and help yourself to the dozen or so vegetables. There are also fruit vendors as well as a vendor who sells things on sticks-there's no pork here obviously but the chicken and fish sticks are absolutely delicious.

So tell me Dear Reader, have you ever been to Koh Yao Noi? What is your favourite way of getting around a city? Bike? Scooter? Train? Car?

How To Get To Koh Yao Noi

The easiest way is to get there by speedboat of longtail boat from Bang Rong Pier in Phuket. These leave around once an hour. Most of the transfers are by speedboat (a 30 minute trip) with the occasional speedboat being substituted by a longtail. There is also a helipad on Koh Yao Noi if you wish to arrive by helicopter.

How To Get Around Koh Yao Noi

Scooter or bike is the absolute best way to see KYN. These were available just outside our hotel and cost 300THB for 24 hours (600THB for ones with side cars). If the petrol runs out you are expected to top it up yourself so make sure the tank is close to full when you rent it.

Where To Stay at Koh Yao Noi

We stayed at Cape Kudu, a Small Luxury Hotel and I cannot recommend it enough. It is an excellent location and the staff are lovely, pool villas are gorgeous and the food is very good.

When To Go To Koh Yao Noi

The best time to visit Koh Yao Noi is December to April as monsoon season is June to November. However we visited in the first two weeks of August and while it rained on a couple of days, the rain didn't last for long.

Where To Eat At Koh Yao Noi

Koh Yao Noi Seafood - hidden gem, Thai favourite, great dishes off the menu (eg. sea grass salad)

Ban Plaina - for tranquil views of a working rice paddy coupled with wonderful food

Kaya - gorgeous service, large menu and very reasonable prices

Cafe Kantary - European style cafe, great for Instagram with Western style cakes and food

Street Food - head towards 711 area on the South west of the island

Why Koh Yao Noi?

If you want to see what Thailand was like 20 years ago. If you want to meet the friendliest locals (they are said to be the friendliest in all of Thailand and I'm inclined to agree). If you want to explore an island that is not over developed. If you are looking to relax but not be bored.

NQN and Mr NQN stayed as guests of Cape Kudu but all meals and experiences outside the hotel were independently paid for.

Source: https://www.notquitenigella.com/2019/01/24/koh-yao-noi-things-to-do/

[ideahood58-blog]

There's Something About Koh Yao Noi: 13 Things To Do On This Island Paradise!

Koh Yao Noi is a postage stamp sized jungle island just 30 minutes from Phuket that holds countless treasures. Sure you can follow the well trodden paths but there's so much more to discover here with hidden local gems. Step back in time on this dreamy Thai island and one of my favourite destinations in Thailand.

There's something romantic about this tiny island. Perhaps it's the temperature which is a little less humid, less rainy and more pleasant due to the island's expansive coastline. Or maybe it's the vibe which is like Thailand 20 years ago. But while everyone works to keep its small island community vibe, that doesn't mean that they aren't welcoming to strangers.

The predominantly Muslim population are wonderfully friendly and sweet. Within 5 minutes of exploring a rambutan seller drove past us saying "Sawasdee-ka!" and everyone is smile ready.

Number 1: See Koh Yao Noi By Scooter

To get around and see this incredible island go by scooter (although Mr NQN will argue a bike is better). Scootering is easy and you don't need a scooter or motorbike license. The hotel we were staying at Cape Kudu has a gentleman who will rent scooters for 300THB a day right outside the hotel and that includes enough gas for a day's touring (if you need more you can fill it up yourself at a low cost of around 1 litre/20THB).

The locals are considerate drivers and it's an easy island to navigate with one main road circling the island. There are also side car scooters available for 600THB although these are a little less safe especially around the gently curving roads - we witnessed an accident involving tourists where they tipped over because they were going too fast around a corner and lost control.

Number 2: Drink Fresh Coconut Juice.

Cocobella

Around the west of the island is coconut farm where you can watch them harvest coconuts. Look for the coconut trees and the staff will wave you in.

Or head even further north to the northernmost inhabited tip of the island towards Cocobella where the coconut palms grow, you can stop and walk the view of the islands in the distance (including James Bond Island) while enjoying a fresh coconut grown at Cocabella's coconut plantation.

They weren't in season when we visited but we were more than content with a delicious fresh papaya shake and an iced coffee. It's also a place if you're looking for Italian food, coffee or gelato.

Number 3: Go To A Local Cafe

Past the coconut farm, head towards Tha Tondo Pier. It was under construction when we visited but if you walk towards the last cafe on the right called The Rest Calm, you can lie back in a hammock and snooze or lie back on the cushions and sip an iced coffee or tea (or try the soy milk, it's nutty and delicious).

Number 4: Eat Local Seafood

Just a few doors down on the street is what locals regard as one of the best restaurants on the island. Koh Yao Tha Tondo seafood is a simple restaurant that specialises in seafood. The prices are fantastic (150THB or $6AUD for prawn or crab dishes).

Tamarind prawns 150THB

The tamarind prawns are tasty and while they are famous for their fish covered with a blanket of crispy garlic (it was a tad dry to be honest) make sure to ask for their seaweed salad aka sea grape salad with som tum flavours (an off menu item).

Fish with garlic

It's like a som tum salad but made without green papaya, instead these gorgeous little bunches of tiny green caviar beads are deliciously refreshing and slightly salty.

Sea grape salad

There's no alcohol served here and food can take a while if there are other customers but you can busy yourself with watching tiny mudskippers make minute leaps and mud crabs bathe themselves in mud. It's better than meditating. And you won't find this place on tripadvisor (yet!).

Number 5: Hideout for a while

The Hideout is a unique treehouse hotel that is also a great place to stop for a drink and a swing on a hammock. It's hidden away up a dirt road and the rocky path takes about 5-8 minutes by scooter although it is not exactly easy driving (the humorous signs are encouraging) or allow 20 minutes walking.

The menu there is all about local and seasonal food and drinks. We tried a Hideout cola made with their own blend of spices (much like the way Coca Cola started as a tonic) and a kaffir limeade and both were wonderful and refreshing.

Look out for these signs

Number 6:. Walk across to Koh Nui At Low tide

Koh Nui island during high tide

Check the tide schedule and you can take a romantic walk along the beach and across the sandbank watching tiny sand bubbler crabs make patterns when they spit out little balls of sand twice a day to make their tunnels. You can also see horn-eyed ghost crabs as well as fiddler crab with one enormous claw.

Walking across during low tide

Number 7: Eat With A Rice Paddy View

With what may be one of the island's most tranquil views, you can feast on delicious local Thai food from the extensive menu while overlooking rice paddies. In the corner a water buffalo picks leaves from the trees while cyclists ride past and a tractor worker toils in the hot sun. Prices are reasonable and feature a lot of seafood.

Spicy fern vegetable salad with shrimp 120THB

You can of course get classics like massaman beef or pad Thai but it is worth seeking out the interesting dishes like the spicy fern vegetable salad with prawns and blanched greens. Or the fried banana blossom cakes (200THB) are delightful too along with the squid with garlic (180THB).

Banana blossom cakes

Number 8:. Sunset

A little warning: an amazing sunset can be an elusive beast on Koh Yao Noi because of the omnipresent clouds. During our entire stay there weren't any spectacular ones but if you happen to have a clear day head to Rice Paddy View Point or Laemsai Pier.

Number 9: Eat Amazing Late Night Roti

Come 7pm every night, I made my way to Rotee My Friend for a fix of fantastic roti. It's open every day but only from 7pm-10pm. It's also a favourite late night haunt for taxi drivers in lieu of an after work bar. Yes there are cats galore but be prepared for some amazing roti.

The Roti 20THB

The "The Roti" is roti tisu, a heavenly paper thin, super crispy roti glazed with sugar and sweetened condensed milk that comes pre-cut (I'm drooling thinking about this).

The Tender roti 20THB

While the "tender roti" is a softer version with the same flavours with roti that has been "clapped" to soften the edges and give it volume. It will be the best 20THB or $0.85AUD you'll spend.

Number 10: Cool Down With Coffee & Cake

Need a blast of air conditioning? Or maybe a fix of coffee, cake or a cookie? Cape Kudu's Cafe Kantary is a stylish white and blue cafe with indoor and outdoor seating. There's nothing quite like it on the island and there's a reason why people stop and take selfies or photos here. The coffee is said to be the best on the island and tip: get one of their soft choc chip cookies. In fact any of their cookies are great.

Number 11: Get Beached

Long Beach

There are perhaps better islands for beaches and sunbathing as the beaches are ringed by coral and rocks so you do need wait for high tide to go swimming but Koh Yao Noi's best beach is Long Beach a hidden away golden sand beach, the second best Pasai Beach. Be careful getting to Long Beach by scooter if it has been raining as you may have to deal with dirt roads, muddy paths and long grass.

Number 12: Do A Custom Cooking Class

There are no shortage of Thai cooking class and the cuisine itself really lends itself to shorter cooking classes as the food is simple to put together but very tasty and easy to replicate at home.

Most cooking schools specialise in the classics like spring rolls, green curry or tom yum soup but at Cape Kudu's cooking school you can also make special requests for custom classes to explore Southern style Thai cooking or the muslim food of KYN both of which I requested.

Delicious Muslim yellow rice with chicken

We made Thai chicken in gravy, a Muslim yellow rice with chicken that I had for breakfast and a Southern crab curry that you rarely see in Australia but is utterly delicious. It's a hands on cooking class so you do all the cooking under the guidance of chef Chan and an English speaking staff member who will help interpret. Better still you get to sit down and feast on everything that you have made.

Number 13: Eat at Kaya

The lovely little local restaurant is located on the south east of the island and the all female run restaurant has a large menu full of Thai favourites with very reasonable prices.

Service is absolutely delightful and you won't find a sweeter bunch. There's a reason why people eat here several times during their stay at KYN.

Try their sweet and rich massaman beef curry or you can always try a fusion way of serving green chicken curry with their green curry spaghetti which is absolutely delicious.

Desserts are mango and sticky rice when in season or the wonderful comfort of bananas simmered in coconut milk.

Number 14: Try Southern Style Street Food

There are plenty of street food stalls dotted around the island as well as mobile vendors. Many of them are around the Pasai Beach area although waterfront outdoor eateries mainly dominate there. if you want to try street food, head towards the 7/11 (yes it's a landmark and it was a big deal when the island got one).

Around that area there are plenty of street food vendors. There's a Southern style curry vendor who has four metal containers with different curries. Southern Thai style curries are lesser known due to lack of exposure but they're absolutely delicious with a saltier and more sour flavour - you won't really find overly sweet numbers. You can choose a curry or two and help yourself to the dozen or so vegetables. There are also fruit vendors as well as a vendor who sells things on sticks-there's no pork here obviously but the chicken and fish sticks are absolutely delicious.

So tell me Dear Reader, have you ever been to Koh Yao Noi? What is your favourite way of getting around a city? Bike? Scooter? Train? Car?

How To Get To Koh Yao Noi

The easiest way is to get there by speedboat of longtail boat from Bang Rong Pier in Phuket. These leave around once an hour. Most of the transfers are by speedboat (a 30 minute trip) with the occasional speedboat being substituted by a longtail. There is also a helipad on Koh Yao Noi if you wish to arrive by helicopter.

How To Get Around Koh Yao Noi

Scooter or bike is the absolute best way to see KYN. These were available just outside our hotel and cost 300THB for 24 hours (600THB for ones with side cars). If the petrol runs out you are expected to top it up yourself so make sure the tank is close to full when you rent it.

Where To Stay at Koh Yao Noi

We stayed at Cape Kudu, a Small Luxury Hotel and I cannot recommend it enough. It is an excellent location and the staff are lovely, pool villas are gorgeous and the food is very good.

When To Go To Koh Yao Noi

The best time to visit Koh Yao Noi is December to April as monsoon season is June to November. However we visited in the first two weeks of August and while it rained on a couple of days, the rain didn't last for long.

Where To Eat At Koh Yao Noi

Koh Yao Noi Seafood - hidden gem, Thai favourite, great dishes off the menu (eg. sea grass salad)

Ban Plaina - for tranquil views of a working rice paddy coupled with wonderful food

Kaya - gorgeous service, large menu and very reasonable prices

Cafe Kantary - European style cafe, great for Instagram with Western style cakes and food

Street Food - head towards 711 area on the South west of the island

Why Koh Yao Noi?

If you want to see what Thailand was like 20 years ago. If you want to meet the friendliest locals (they are said to be the friendliest in all of Thailand and I'm inclined to agree). If you want to explore an island that is not over developed. If you are looking to relax but not be bored.

NQN and Mr NQN stayed as guests of Cape Kudu but all meals and experiences outside the hotel were independently paid for.

Source: https://www.notquitenigella.com/2019/01/24/koh-yao-noi-things-to-do/

[citrussam]

describe your oc: all the questions. literally all the questions for jude thanx

JESUS CHIRST

here we go (will put some under the cut)

1: their voice

Ashly Burch (but a bit deeper)

2: their smile

i’m bad at describing things but all i can say is that half smirk a pretty girl gives off and it makes u really gay

3: their greatest achievement

Stole a fuckin car from a salesdude and using that car to steal 3 cartons of Alcohol or nearly died but managed to parkour around campus roofs 

4: their insecurities

as in big ones it’s probably hmmmm her appearance? she would feel bad bc she thinks she feels sloppy 24/7

being too open to people

her own personality sometimes that she gives off like “am i being too nice”

5: their shortcomings

never being the person she wanted to be in the first place

she’s a mess first off lmao but she tries to keep things organized bc she feels bad about it

Lack of control over her own nerves often

Lack of better understanding with her own conflicting emotions (like idk “she’s right. i’m dead wrong 100%”) and combating this with 40% of her self oriented nature 

6: how they deal with grief

me: BO i

you’ll notice p quick bc she’ll isolate herself from everyone and linger a lot around town (won’t even talk to Allen tbh) skipping class 

legitimately beat herself up 

i would’ve said alcohol but i feel like she already knows it wouldnt help not even an inch (but maybe would try again anyways)

7: how they like to dress

some days ripped jeans, some days leggings or just ...denim shorts (or sports shorts)

you’d always see her with some weird ass tank top or graphic shirt that says smth funny on it like “i woke up like this” 

draped over you’d see her wearing those denim or bomber jackets with pins on em’ or just a rugged flannel 

at home it’s just a sports bra and regular underwear bc “It’s like prison” - Jude

[more under the cut]

8: what they like to eat

probably those fuckin chinese seaweed thingys u see on CNY also probs a really good bowl of fish noodles 

do not bring rambutans near this woman

9: their theme

high key punk rock goddamn alternative aesthetic

10: their fashion sense

she literally just grabs what can be seen first in her wardrobe pls help her

but she keeps a decent fashion sense, esp if she’s going somewhere where she knows pretty ppl would go to

11: their family life

Jude: what the fuck is a family

no father figure, no mother figure (i mean, if u include Alice), the closest thing to a family life is during her early teen years when she crashed with Alice in her apartment bc apparently she had to travel alone to where Jude lived in so Alice just took her in and i guess that’s the first time Jude felt useful and had purpose

also like she looks up to Michael and Raymond as brotherly figures  

12: their romantic life

from bad ends in the past she thought the feeling of romantic relationships were 2 dimensional and really just dated for the heck of it or just thinks would numb what was kinda left for her to actually experience a good moral value (idk how to type or form words at this point)

she did at one point tried to take it seriously but ended up getting shit on and never really found interest again until Allen came along

so now she’s doing her best to keep this one afloat and staying honest and making sure everything is okay even when they occasionally fight 

13: their embarrassing memory from years ago

accidentally flashed her tiddies in front of a teacher she had a slight crush on (it;s a female substitute)

accidentally mistaken a twin brother as her date during prom and kinda made out a bit till ppl started pointing it out it wasnt actually him

Jude: i’ll never recover from it. my tits are cursed.

14: how they react to burning their tongue on food

she’ll stay frozen like a goddamn cat that has something on their head

either that or just keep pushing on like “but it tastes...so good...”

15: how they react to a brainfreeze

Pain(tm) 

screams if she’s not in public but she’d try to do those goddamn life hack methods on pushing ur tongue on the roof of your mouth

16: their dreams

man she just wants to be like those ppl on bandcamp that writes songs for a living also probably start journalism and make muns off weird articles she’s been hired to do online or smth

she’d love to have a munchkin cat (wait that’s not a dream)

nothing very big atm, though she would love to marry Allen sometime in the future if they can still work things out and maybe settle in somewhere nice

17: their ambitions

Music Artist/ hosts on travelling networks / cafe owner (is tht an ambition) / like i said she doesn’t aim for anything big or huge just managable things 

18: how they sleep

sprawled while laying on her back, if someone is sleeping over tho on the same bed she’d keep it to one side, and with Allen it’s like being chained to the bed when u really want 2 piss but ur gf is holding u down

also doing that thing where u tuck ur arms under the pillow while also sleeping on your back

19: their reaction to betrayal

wide spectrum depending on the person

immediately try to physically harm them

would be frozen in place like trying to piece together what the fuck just happened

saying it’s fine, and then going home just to lock herself in the room for idk how many days

would question a lot (is that how some ppl react) 

doubt herself 

20: their reaction to a mystery love letter

flattered but anxious bc like “i don’t know you but im flattered????” she would still appreciate it tho but if she recognize it she’d be flustered

21: how they react to pain

if u meant by heartbroken broken depressed broken into pieces kind of pain she’d try a lot of ways to beat it the hell out of herself

if u meant by physical pain then hm “it’s ok it doesn’t hurt” 

internally : AAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAA

22: what they're like on two hours of sleep

still could have enough energy to jog tbh depending on the day before

or

accidentally spreading toothpaste on toast

23: how they act when they're sick

a tad bit moody and would complain “if i havn’t done _______ i’d still be ok” and kinda half blame herself but also blame whatever caused it

24: what motivates them

The fact that Allen would be happy with her and that they’re still alive

also bc music and all that jazz 

25: why you enjoy them

i have....a type...for characters that are like her idk how to properly explain it but i guess although they seem p oblivious to the risks they know their limit and are very understanding ???? taking caution of someone else entirely before theirs (is not healthy but) i find their determination very inspiring?? in a way??? idk im like running on watered down latte and only had 2 hours of sleep atm i might re edit a lot of things here

[yimsoksophors]

Ms. Ngem Da, 49 years old, lives Prateal village, Botum Sakor commune, Botum Sakor district, Koh Kong province. Her husband is Mr. Som Phin, 57 years old. She has 2 daughters, one is working in Thailand and another one is now working with her in the village. She has lives in this farm land / homestead about 8 years ago. She moved from the homestead in the village center to live her in the farm land because she has bigger land here for farming.

  She herself used work as the casual labour worker in Thailand for about 20 years e.g. fruit harvesting, rubber plantation farm worker, etc. She needed to work like that in order to make income to support her family. Now she stops working in Thailand because now her daughter can work there instead, she herself works in the farm in the village.

She has about 5-6 hectares of land for planting durian (30 out of 170 durian trees are producing fruits now), rambutan (70 out of 150 Rambutan trees bear the fruits), mangosteen (20-30 trees, not yet provide yield) etc. In addition, she also grows vegetables for home consumption and sale. But due to the water shortage she could not grow vegetables all year round. Water source is from the pond, but it is not enough to irrigate all crops in her farm.  The size of the pond is 30 x 20 meters, with 8 meters depth. Heavy rain is  another challenge for her to grow vegetables and other crops especially from July – September. She observed that raining in her area is much different from the low land area, sometimes it rained about 20 days per month, no proper sunlight. This created difficulty for her to grow crops (due to waterlogging). Another issue is the damage by pest insects.

She started the cooperation with the Biodiversity Conservation Corridors Project (BCCP) in 2017. Since then, she is interested to learn chicken raising and horticulture techniques, including vegetable and fruit tree growing. Specifically, she has improved the broiler (meat chicken) production, how to prevent the chicken diseases, how to treat the chicken disease, how to take care of the chicks, take care of hen, how to make mixed feed, etc. Now, she has 14 hens, 2 cocks, 40 adult chickens, and 100 chicks.

  For the horticulture practices, she has gained knowledge related to mulching techniques, drip irrigation system (water use efficiency / water saving technique). In addition to the technical knowledge provided by the BCCP project trainers, she has received some vegetable seeds / planting materials from the project to plant in her farm. She realized that the drip irrigation system can save a lot of water if compared to the conventional irrigation practices. The mulching technique is good for weed control and maintain soil moisture, at the same time provide some nutrient back to the soil.

  Concerning to the vegetable growing, she has improved the soil preparation techniques. To avoid waterlogging in the rainy season, she prepared raised-bed gardens for growing vegetables. This helped her to deal with the issue of heavy rain and waterlogging. At the same time, it provided her an opportunity to produce vegetables for selling in the rainy season. While farmers in the village could not produce vegetables due to the waterlogging, she could produce for selling with a good return of income.  It is noted that the vegetable growing is from October to April (duration is varied depending on the availability of water for irrigation). The size of the vegetable garden is 40 x 80 meters, planted mixed varieties such as yard long bean, cucumber, pumpkin, corn, etc. She normally plant different vegetables from other farmers in the village for planting. By doing so, she could easily sell her products with a good price (less competitive with other producers).

For the fruit growing, she has improved the planting techniques, management and caring of the crops in order to produce good yield. She has improved the harvest and post-harvest management practices through the training provided by the project trainers. For instance, for the rambutan, she packaged it very well that is easy for transport, and it can be kept fresh for a longer time when selling to buyers.

In general, she produced compost for fertilizing her farm soil. Only few quantity of fertilizer bought from market to speed up the root growth of crops (at the initial stage). She never uses chemical pesticide, but instead she uses botanical pesticide for the control of pest insects.

The chicken, vegetables and fruit tree production enabled her to produce enough for the family consumption and sale. Below is the highlight of income gained from the selling of agricultural products per year:

Commodities Description Total (USD) Chicken Selling 3-4 times per year 1,000 Vegetables About 250 USD/month x 9 months/year 2,250 Durian Buyer paid the money in advance before the harvesting season 1,600 Rambutan 200 kg x 2.5 USD/kg 500 Total 5,350

 Below is the expense for vegetable and fruit tree production: 

No. Expense Total expense (USD) 1 Vegetable seed 50 2 Trellis net 17.5 3 Diesel for water pumping for vegetables and fruit trees (75 USD x 9 months) 675 4 Hormones for fruit tree planting 2,500 Total 3,242.5

So, the total expense is 3,242.5 USD. This means that she could make gross profit of 5,350 – 3,242.5 = 2,107.5 USD/year.

The fruits were distributed to local buyers, villagers, retailers in the commune or district markets. Currently her product is only sold to local buyers, not be able to sell to buyers in Phnom Penh or other places, because she still produce limited quantity of product for selling.

 “Doing farming is tired, but I am proud with it. I can produce own agricultural products for family consumption, I don’t need to buy products from others which are unhealthy. I hope that in the near future, my livelihood will be significantly improved”.  

She is planning to improve her farm by carrying out the following activities: 

Expand the water pond in order to collect more water for irrigation;

Find more market for her products, she need to have different buyers for her production;

Expand the chicken raising. Chicken is sold to support the fruit production and daily expense of the family;

Dig another pond for the fish raising.

  Ms. Ngem Da and her husband, and Durian in her farm

  Application of integrated horticulture production in the homestead area Ms. Ngem Da, 49 years old, lives Prateal village, Botum Sakor commune, Botum Sakor district, Koh Kong province.

[wikitopx]

As an old penal colony, Saint-Laurent du Maroni has the distinction of being a town built by and for convicts.

Saint-Laurent is next to the River Maroni in western French Guiana, and 70 years after the colony shut down the remnants of camps are not hard to find. If you’ve read the book Papillon you’ll want to see firsthand what the author went through. The wide, muddy Maroni River forms a natural border with Suriname and promises endless ecotourism escapades: You can hack through the primeval jungle, visit Amerindian tribes and spot exotic wildlife most of us have only seen in movies. Let's explore the best things to do in Saint-Laurent-du-Maroni.

[toc]

1. Camp de la Transportation

Life in the criminal colonies of France in the 30s and 40s was revealed to the world in Papillon, an autobiography of former prisoner Henri Charrière. Whether you read the book or not, you should take the guided tour of the facility where the new prisoners arrive to be treated.

Most of the old prison buildings are in decent shape and give a good if the grisly sense of what it must have been like for a prisoner: You’ll see the solitary cells and learn about torture methods.

Also preserved is Charrière, the cell organization before he is sent to the colony of Devil Island. Here among other prisoners' graffiti, the word "papillon" is engraved.

2. Petit Paris

When you get to Saint-Laurent du Maroni drop by the tourist office for a leaflet with an itinerary of the town center.

Affectedly known as Petit Paris, these roads joined when the prison camp expanded after 1887. With many officials and officials coming to the town of Saint-Laurent du Maroni aired at this time.

There are bulletin boards in French and English that tell stories of structures such as the Governor's Mansion (now the subdivision's home), the Maritime Court, the town hall and the old bank, the Saint- Laurent and Joffre Barracks (currently the headquarters of the gendarmerie).

3. Centre d’Interprétation de l’Architecture et du Patrimoine

The former kitchen and mess hall at Camp de Transportation has been turned into an exhibition space.

Here there are displays on the daily life of the 70,000 convicts who came through these doors between 1852 and 1938. There are sketches, photographs and artifacts recalling the voyage from the port at Saint-Martin-de-Ré in Western France across the Atlantic to Saint-Laurent-du-Maroni.

Then in the old dormitories, there’s an exhibition showing when and how the town was built, and some of the challenges it may face in the future.

4. Camp de la Rélégation

About 15 kilometers up the Maroni River is another former prison camp, opening for tours on Friday, Saturday and Sunday.

In terms of penalties, relegation, which means people who have committed repeat offenses before they are sent to Guiana have little hope of being free: After years of hard labor, they have been sent to This colony, currently in the village of Saint-Jean.

Here some 18,000 people were granted extra rights like being able to contract for work, on the condition that they never attempted to leave the colony. These buildings were reused to house immigrants from Eastern Europe after the war and more recently as barracks.

There is a contemporary sculpture commemorating those convicted by Bertrand Piéchaud in front of the camp.

5. Marché

At Place Flore Lithaw there is a market every Wednesday and Saturday from 07:00 to 14:00. If you want to feel about Saint-Laurent, there's nowhere like it.

You rub your shoulders with the residents who return for their day, catch the Guianese Créole conversations and the friendly hostess calls. And then there’s the enticing spectacle of tropical fruits and vegetables like cassava, bananas, papaya, mango, yam, and rambutans, some of which you’ll know and other so exotic you may need to ask about.

Blending with the scent of the market is the scent of local Chinese cuisine, Bushinengué (Creole), H'mong (South Asia) being prepared at the market restaurant.

6. Banks of the Maroni River

The saint-Laurent tourist office, just a few steps from the river, this is a good place to stop for a picnic or admire the vast blue Maroni River under the swaying palm. There’s a refreshing breeze by the water and a kiosk for fresh tropical fruit juice, ice creams or crêpes.

As you wander you’ll notice something that at first looks like an island, but is actually a shipwreck overcome by tropical vegetation. This is the Edith Cavell, a British Merchant Navy vessel that ran aground in 1925 and was left here after efforts to tow it failed.

7. Île aux Lépreux

Opportunities for adventure abound in Laurent-du-Maroni, but you don’t have to embark on a grueling expedition to escape civilization. The Ile aux Lépreux river island is uninhabited because as the name will tell you, it's a quarantine place these days.

That period is long gone, and now it’s a space of semi-wilderness for quiet walks. There are typical Amazonian huts in the forest, known as carpets; these are shelters with no walls, designed to help people keep cool at night.

On this island, they have been equipped with benches and you can pause to drink water or picnic.

8. Forêt de Saint-Jean

Another wild excursion near Saint-Laurent is a forest trip to the prison camp in Saint-Jean, which was retaken by the forest. This camp was founded in the early 20th century and is connected to Saint-Laurent by rail.

But about 70 years after it stops working, you may need an experienced guide to show evidence of this missing compound. Whether you walk or ride a mountain bike, a lot of the fun of the path comes from tropical flora, as you glide over palm trees or cross the roots of large hardwood trees.

9. La Charbonnière

There’s the history of a more recent kind in this quarter of Saint-Laurent.

This neighborhood was built in the mid-80s to house members of the Maroon ethnic group (descendants of runaway slaves). They fled the civil war in Namibia, rumbling in the river until 1992. La Charbonnière lay by the river, with locals parked on the banks and unloading fresh fruit for shops and markets.

It’s still a down-at-heel part of Saint-Laurent, but the village’s dwellings are cute chalet-style huts coated with wood shingles.

10. Rhumerie Saint-Maurice

Open to visitors in the morning, Rhumerie Saint-Maurice is the only remaining rum distillery in French Guiana. The facility was modernized around five years ago at a cost of €8m and the much-loved La Belle Cabresse, an award-winning white rum with 50-55% vol.

In the store, you'll find rum that has been three or seven years, and of course, you can try before you buy. A good thing about coming to the source is that bottles are much cheaper at the distillery than if you buy then in other towns around Guiana, like Cayenne or Kourou.

More ideals for you: Top 10 things to do in Saint Brieuc

From : https://wikitopx.com/travel/top-10-things-to-do-in-saint-laurent-du-maroni-709702.html

[phgq]

CEZA exec eyes bamboo propagation in N. Luzon

#PHnews: CEZA exec eyes bamboo propagation in N. Luzon

MANGALDAN, Pangasinan -- The Cagayan Economic Zone Authority (CEZA) is looking at propagating bamboo, fruit bearing trees and tulips in Northern Luzon to boost the government’s reforestation program.

 In a phone interview Monday, Secretary Raul Lambino, Presidential Assistant for Northern Luzon and CEZA Administrator and Chief Executive Officer, said they have identified some areas in Pangasinan like Sual and Aguilar towns where there are vast government lands that can be planted with bamboo.

 Lambino said they have also invited multi-million investors to put up businesses in Cagayan province and other areas to benefit the locals, especially the farmers.

 "We are committed to put up the laboratory of Beema bamboo and other bamboo species there at CEZA. We are talking with investors in India to put up a tissue culture laboratory in CEZA. We are going to propagate and provide seedlings to different provinces," he remarked.

 "The Beema specie is like the kawayan bayog in the Philippines, but it is better than bayog in a way kasi (because) it is heavier. It can be used for furniture, source of fuel, textile, paper, etc. and it can be a very good material for construction. This is the most sought-after material in India for energy. We hope that we can plant more and harvest more of this specie. This will help not just in the reforestation efforts but also in the development of cleaner energy rather than on relying on fossil fuel," he explained.

 Lambino said he had initially talked with the mayor of Sual as well as officers of Provincial Environment and Natural Resources Officers and the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR).

 "This would complement the efforts of former Alaminos City mayor Arthur Celeste, and now Mayor Arth Bryan Celeste, for their bamboo industry. I heard Alaminos City got assistance from Philippine Amusement Gaming Corporation for their engineered bamboo factory.  We have to help that industry in Alaminos, we have to sustain that. I am coordinating closely with Department of Agriculture Secretary William Dar," he added. 

 For the propagation of fruit-bearing trees, he said that based on studies conducted, the province of Apayao would be an ideal place to plant lanzones, rambutan, and durian.

 "We have identified more than 1,000 hectares that used to be New People’s Army-infested. We are prioritizing that as possible areas for investors that would be interested to pour in capital for the growing of these high-value fruits. I've talked to the governor of Apayao a couple of months ago during our Regional Development Council (RDC) meeting, I brought up the idea and she (Governor Eleanor Bulut-Begtang) is excited about it," Lambino disclosed. 

 Accordingly, they also have identified several areas in Cagayan, Isabela, Nueva Vizcaya, and in the Cordillera region for fruit bearing trees. 

 Lambino said they are also looking into the possibility of propagating tulips at the mountain areas of San Nicolas, Pangasinan and Santa Fe, Nueva Vizcaya.

 "We have also talked with experts in flower-growing, the soil, as well as the temperature. (Areas) between Pangasinan and Nueva Vizcaya would be most suitable for tulips, and it can thrive all-year round,” he said. 

 Construction of Valle Verde Trail, connecting Eastern Pangasinan and Nueva Vizcaya is ongoing.  

 Lambino said he had talked with the Department of Public Works and Highways Region 1 director and he was assured to prioritize completing the Pangasinan side. 

 Completion of the new road network will greatly help farmers from the upland bring down their farm produce to the market, he added. (PNA)

   ***

References:

* Philippine News Agency. "CEZA exec eyes bamboo propagation in N. Luzon." Philippine News Agency. https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1085109 (accessed November 06, 2019 at 05:34AM UTC+14).

* Philippine News Agency. "CEZA exec eyes bamboo propagation in N. Luzon." Archive Today. https://archive.ph/?run=1&url=https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1085109 (archived).