Glamour & Grace

Even though it's been 10 years since I visited Malaysia, the striking image of the iconic Petronas Twin Towers always comes to mind.  Malaysia's society is a great example of harmony between 5 religions, with about 67% of the population practising Islam, followed by Buddhism, Christianity, and others.  I was really impressed by how people from different religions and cultures showed respect for each other. One thing I needed help with was  Remembering the names of Malaysian dishes was a bit tricky for me. But I can still picture their simple yet delicious meals. One dish they recommended, "Nasi Lemak," stood out. It's a mix of coconut rice, spicy sambal sauce, peanuts, fresh veggies, and sweetened anchovies all beautifully arranged side by side. This kind of food is special to Malaysia not many in Korea know about it. Malaysian food is so good, and in Korea, people are more familiar with Thai cuisine.  If you ever find yourself in Jamsil, a lively tourist area, yo...

  Over time, Korea has developed its own varieties of locally produced bread. For example, during the colonial period, they made sweet bean paste-filled bread called 단팥방 ( Danpat -ppang). Then, in the 1980s to 2000s, there was the rise of cream-filled bread known as 크림빵 ( cream-ppang) , made in mass factories and mainly enjoyed by the younger generation. But Korea didn't stop there – they kept improving their baking skills. Today, Korea offers a wide range of bread that appeals to people of all ages, both within and internationally.  Local bakeries provide options like unsweetened and yeast bread and sweeter and fluffier choices to satisfy dessert cravings. Since the 1988 Seoul Olympics, more and more international travellers have been coming to Korea for short trips or longer stays. Many started needing to get the taste of homemade bread, pastries, and desserts over time.  Among these international visitors, many of them found the dense Korean bread a bit heavy for every...

I have a genuine affection for cheese, even though its distinct aromas often trigger a cringe due to its uniqueness. However, I remain open to tasting it with trust and immense pleasure . The finest cheese stays close to home.  Travelling is the ideal way to discover a range of local cheeses. The exact number of official and unofficial cheese types worldwide is difficult to determine as there are countless variations and regional specialities. However, according to the locally surveyed information on Cheese, approximately 1,200 different types of cheese exist across Europe. France is one of the European countries where you can find fine many local artisanal cheese. Renowned author Murakami Haruki has a deep love for travelling and a fervent passion for local culinary cultures. In one of his statements, he emphasized, "The finest alcohol never travels," and I find it fitting to extend the same notion to cheese.     To Continue the passion for making French cheese, There ar...

In the aftermath of the Korean War, South Korea stands as a unique nation, divided by a military boundary that hinders further interaction between the two sides.  The most remarkable aspect is the Demilitarized Zone (DMZ), which encapsulates this separation.  As you set out to explore the DMZ, there's an unmistakable excitement in the air, a mix of curiosity and anticipation for what lies ahead. Arriving at the DMZ, however, a contrasting feeling settles in—an unexpected emptiness takes hold, for there is no path forward beyond this point.  The reality of the situation becomes clear as you face the stark realization that this is where your journey ends, where the divide between the two Koreas is most tangible. Despite the bittersweet arrival, the DMZ remains a magnet for travellers. It has become the most sought-after destination for those visiting South Korea on short-term trips.  It offers an opportunity to witness the historical past and envision the potential fut...

  Just as the sun rises in the east and sets in the west, the direction of sunlight influences how we think about homes. When looking for a new place to live, they often consider where the windows face. Many prefer homes with windows that face the south.  This is because when windows are oriented this way, they let in a lot of sunlight. This sunlight has many benefits. It helps our bodies get Vitamin D and makes wet clothes dry faster. Sunlight also prevents the growth of mould, which can happen in damp conditions. However, not all homes are shaped to have windows facing the right direction for maximum sunlight. Some homes have windows that face north, which means they don't get as much sunlight during the day. My room, for example, has a window that faces north. This means getting indirect sunlight in the morning, disappearing slowly by noon. When the sky is covered with clouds, there's even less light. On those days, I prefer spending time outside, surrounded by nature. This...

   Managing Everyday Annoyances Everyone has one or two pet peeves that can be quite irritating. Most of these stem from certain behaviours exhibited by human beings, often without them realizing how bothersome it can be for others. I've also noticed a particular set of pet peeves that gradually build up, eventually leading to a severe headache. Firstly, the constant sound of someone inhaling through their runny nose... Secondly , the act of drinking the collected mucus from their nose or spitting them out. Thirdly, the phenomenon I call "dragon feet" refers to loud footsteps. Fourth, the noises people make while eating. Fifthly, those who ask how you're doing but never actually listen to your response. Sixth, people who sneeze without bothering to cover their mouths. A wise person once said that the more you dislike something, the more it draws you close to it. Ironically, that's exactly what's happening to me now. A colleague sitting right before me bre...

The Temple Stay program began in 2002, around the time of the Korea and Japan FIFA World Cup. It was put together by a group of Buddhists known as the Jogye Order with the aim of welcoming many tourists. This program was a cool way to show people from other countries the interesting parts of Korean Buddhism. Buddhism is like a special part of Korean culture that's been around for a long time –  It was introduced to Korea in the 4th century and has since become an integral and enduring aspect of the country's cultural and historical landscape.  During Temple Stay, visitors got to experience what it's like to be in a peaceful temple.  They learned about Buddhist ideas by practising meditation and participating in rituals. Plus, they learned about how Buddhism is connected to Korea's history.  You have the option to skip any of these activities and just relax.  So, Temple Stay didn't just teach people about religion; it helped them see how Korea's culture and histo...

  이미 세상을 떠난 아버지에게서 온 이메일을 통해   아들을 격려하는 마지막 편지  , 지어낸 소설임에도 이 뭉클해지는 가슴이 나댔다. 생명이 다해가는 10만명을 살릴 세포 퍠포 상피 세포 경화증 치료약을 개발하는 것을 목표로 하여,  전개되는 이야기이다.  이 치료약을 만들어야 할  운명을 진 이는  일본에 사는 청년,  도쿄 대학 약학부 연구원으로 일하는 겐토 에게 맡겨진다. 돌아가신 아버지가 보낸 의문에 메일에서 당신이  하려고 했던 일을 아들에게 전달한다. 그것은 난치병 특효약 개발이다.  폐포 상피 세포 경화증으로  인해 병실에 누워 죽을 날을 기다리는 어린 생명을 위해 수많은 사람들이 온 지구 안과 밖을 넘나들며 얽혀있다.  이 모든 것의 배후에는 초인류로부터 비롯된 3살 어린이 누스 놀라운 지능이 자리한다. 신의 능력과 동등한 힘이 있다고 인간들은 믿을 정도로  알 수 없는 초 인류적 지능을 갖추고 있다. 20만 년 동안 이어진   현생인류의 생물학적 살육적 본능,  DNA에 존재하는 인간의 잔혹성은 계속해서 이어지고,  인간들의 무지와 권력에 따른 이성의 상실을 담아낸다. 그리고 이런 인간들에게 너무나  초월적인 지능을 가진 누스의 의도와 지능은 예상하기조차 어렵다. 영장류가 인간의 지능을 따라잡을 수 없는 것처럼 말이다.  하지만, 그 인간의 지능에도 한계가 존재했다.   결국  선의가 이기고, 불의는 사라져야 한다만, 이 완벽해 보이는 전체적인 흐름에 제동을 거는 한 사건, 예거는 왜 믹을 죽였을까, 자기 사람들을 위해 죽을 힘을 다해 싸우고 있었는데도 말이다.   이 이야기는 이라크, 아프리카, 미국, 일본 브라질을 넘나들며  동시간에  다양한 상황들을 엮어낸다.  미국은 초인류의 지성...

The Allure of Arabic Dates Arabic dates are not just any ordinary fruit. They are a delectable and sweet treat that energises and indulges your appetite. My first encounter with these delights occurred at a quaint Doha market. Hanging gracefully from their branches, they resembled miniature rugby balls, promising an exquisite culinary experience. The Gulf region buzzes with activity throughout July and August as people gather to collect these treasures.  Date trees adorn the landscape, draped in nets that shield the precious fruit from harm. In the sacred period of Ramadan, Muslims break their fast with the heavenly duo of dates and yoghurt, followed by prayers. The inherent sweetness of dates acts as a balm, alleviating the day's challenges.  Furthermore, their versatility shines as they lend their essence to meals and desserts. Different types of dates, each with their own unique tastes, textures, and sizes, grow abundantly in the wide and varied Gulf region. The young dates...

  Exquisite Signature Bread  🥐🍰 In South Korea, just like in other countries, there's a genuine fondness for bread among the people. While bread might not have the same status as a staple food here as it does in some other nations, it is widely embraced as a dessert option. After a meal, a diverse array of delightful bread snacks awaits, ready to be enjoyed, no matter how full one's stomach may be. This deep appreciation for bread has given rise to the tradition of presenting bread or cakes as gifts for special occasions. Distinguishing exceptional bakeries from franchise bakeries that offer similar bread has become increasingly challenging. With intense competition in the industry, even the wide range of bread choices presents challenges in predicting their visual appeal and flavour. Among the countless varieties of flavours and visual styles that have emerged in the realm of bread, I had the privilege of trying bread from West Gin Bakery, courtesy of a friend.  Undoub...