My foundations of today came from my avid reading and following National Geographic Magazine, that heavily influenced my visual storytelling style. Along with my scouting roots and outdoors experiences also laid the foundations as an avid traveller and travel writer of today. 

As I mature over the decades, I am more conscious of the delicate balance, a higher pressing need and urgency to address how we live and interact with our environment. We have to up the pace, be the change, be the Generation Restoration. Through my visual storytelling and travel stories with my Canon cameras, exploring and sharing stories, I hope that the small role that I played, and shared today, can help continue to spread the message for World Environment Day 2024. 

Whether as a visual storyteller or as a avid traveller or travel writer, we the #RestorationGeneration can make a world of difference, a positive change for World Environment Day 2024 and beyond, not just for our current generation, for our future generations and beyond.  

All of us can play a part, no matter how big or small, as part of #GenerationRestoration. 

The post World Environment Day 2024 – #GenerationRestoration appeared first on TGH Photography and Travel Portal/Blog.

“The Legendary Series”

The Legendary Series, as this limited offer is called, is available only to 999 members worldwide. They features a variety of money-saving features and surprises designed to delight today’s international traveller. For those who show support for Really Cool Airlines at this early stage, members are rewarded not only by tangible benefits, they can also enjoy the excitement of seeing Really Cool Airlines grow and expand its network in coming years.

The estimated value of the benefits in The Legendary Series is USD$15,000. If you choose to be an early supporter, again only 999 worldwide, you will pay only USD$6,000 for a block of benefits that includes:

• 2 free Super Cool seats round trip to any destination Really Cool Airline flies, with no expiration date (Super Cool seats are the Airline’s equivalent of business class seats) 
• 2 vouchers for 50% off when buying return Super Cool seats, available for any destination on the network, a benefit that is awarded every year for life 
• 2 free upgrades to Super Cool seats when buying return Cool Seats (economy) to any destination in the network, another benefit that is awarded every year for life 
• And “Surprise Drops” from partners, which will include free hotel rooms, airport transfers and free car rentals 

(Terms and conditions apply) 

While this limited-time Legendary Series has an attention-getting suite of cost-saving benefits, CEO Patee stresses that the overall Digital Membership Program will meet the needs of all Really Cool Airline customers, and delight them all, no matter when they join. CEO Patee also adds that as Really Cool Airline continues to grow, the benefits and capabilities offered by the ReallyCool US Program will continue to expand.

Really Cool Airlines CEO, Mr. Patee Sarasin says “I am incredibly excited to unveil the ReallyCool US Digital Membership program, the world’s first membership program in the airline industry. This groundbreaking initiative is a testament to our ongoing commitment to enhancing the travel experience for our customers. With only 999 exclusive Legendary Series memberships available globally, we are offering a truly unparalleled opportunity to elevate your travel lifestyle. By offering a truly unique opportunity, we are redefining the way our customers travel and ensuring they enjoy the best that the aviation industry has to offer.” 

CEO Patee also disclosed that Really Cool Airlines plans to commence flying in Q2024. The initial flight routes in Asia are likely to include Singapore, Tokyo, Hong Kong and Taiwan, with European routes added the following year.

For more information on ReallyCool US Digital Membership, please visit https://www.reallycoolus.com.

* Information and pictures courtesy of Really Cool Airlines and Full Circle PR *

The post Really Cool Airlines launches exclusive ReallyCool US Digital Membership appeared first on TGH Photography and Travel Portal/Blog.

A wide variety of travel adventures and activities await you, from trekking through the verdant jungle of Borneo in search of majestic orang utans, to cruising along the winding waterways of Mekong Delta, South East Asia has it all for us travelers. There are many destinations to visit in this remarkable South East Asia region of the world, as they start to relax their COVID entry requirements, there’s never been a better time to plan a trip. Check out this video by Scott Dunn, the beauty and charm of South East Asia!

Whether you’re planning a family retreat, a unique escapade for one, or a romantic getaway for two, let Scott Dunn bring you on a journey to uncover the natural wonders of our tropical neighbours and engage with the region’s rich and colourful history.

Indonesia 

The allure of Indonesia is undeniable – a diverse country where blue waters lap deserted beaches, rice paddles cut into hillsides and volcanoes soar over lush rainforests. The different cultures and people of Indonesia offer warm hospitality and the hotels are some of the most luxurious in the Asia Pacific. There is no better place to reconnect with nature than on Indonesia’s many island paradise.

• Family Holidays in Indonesia: From paddle boarding to parasailing, the ocean is a playground for the whole family where crystal clear waters awaits with conditions ideal for kids learning to swim. Unique accommodation options afford you the comfort and privacy of a home away from home, in an exotic setting where villas are spacious with enough rooms for kids to play, teens to bask in the sun, and parents to recline in the shade of a leafy palm. As a key highlight, navigating the far flung islands of Komodo and Flores or Raja Ampat is an extra special way to celebrate an occasion or spend quality time together, guaranteeing that both young and old are catered for from start to finish.
• Honeymoons in Indonesia: From Java to Bali and Lombok, Indonesia is arguably the ultimate honeymoon destination and it is for good reason that discerning honeymooners have long fallen under the spell of this enchanting string of paradisiacal islands. As a haven for scuba diving, white sandy beaches and utterly romantic experiences, it is the perfect place for a truly romantic getaway. Expect post-nuptial pampering and total relaxation in equal measure.
• Temples in Indonesia: Indonesia is a cultural phenomenon and a mosaic of temples, shrines and stupas, with eight UNESCO World Heritage sites to its name. From the shores of Indonesia’s low lying coastal regions, to its spongy hilltops and rice paddy clad fields, temples in Indonesia abound – seamlessly interweaving different cultures into the fabric of Indonesia. Visiting the country’s temples during regional festivals or national celebrations – such as the vibrant Bali Arts Festival or the holiest festival in Buddhism, Waisak – is a wonderful way to witness these incredible sites in all their glittering glory.
• Unique Experience: Cruise the extraordinary Komodo National Park aboard a luxury yacht for the most unique way to explore this untouched region. Stop off at the snorkelling and diving hotspots, the pristine beaches and the islands in search of the mighty Komodo Dragon before returning to Bali’s south coast for a relaxing end to your holiday unwinding on the beaches of Seminyak.

Vietnam

There are few places in the world where you can experience an exotic and rich culture the way that you do when you travel in Vietnam. A nation carpeted in greenery and studded with historic cities, it stretches along the South China Sea and snuggles up to Laos and Cambodia to the west and China to the north. There are so many fascinating places to visit in Vietnam from astonishingly beautiful scenery and beaches to evocative cities such as Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon) and Hoi An – it’s a country hard to beat.

• Vietnam for Families: Children are warmly embraced by the people of Vietnam. Kids will love the enchanting water puppet theatres, beaches, train and boat rides, and colonial city tours by Vespa. With dazzling beaches, lush mountains, fascinating hill-tribe villages, fabulous food and a deep history, Vietnam is a country like no other. Travelling with your family from the south to the north allows you to take in all that is alluring the country has to offer. From the emerald waters and limestone karsts of Halong Bay to vibrant and bustling Saigon, Vietnam has something for every member of the family.
• Vietnam Luxury Honeymoons: The different weather patterns along the length of the country make Vietnam a year-round destination, and therefore a fabulous option whatever the time of the year you are seeking a romantic getaway. From fascinating old meets new culture, fantastic cuisine, breathtaking scenery, and some incredible luxury beach properties, Vietnam is a great luxury romantic destination for two.
• Our Guide to Vietnam: With much to see and do in Vietnam, we recommend journeying like locals on the back of a Vespa through the streets of Saigon – through the central coast countryside by bike or buffalo cart and learn to fish Vietnam style. In Hanoi, meet a Feng Shui master or have a pre breakfast Tai Chi class and explore its colonial streets by jeep. Further north, trek from Sapa to Ta Giang Phinh across the waterfall scattered and undulating landscape past numerous villages, home to lesser-known ethnic groups and charming stilt houses.
• Unique Experience: Discover Hoi An’s mysterious nightlife from the back of a vintage Vespa scooter with a Street Food Tour. From the most famous white rose and fried wonton restaurant in town to the incredible BBQ specialties and charcoal grill, be sure to also join the locals with some glasses of cold beer and learn the art of Vietnamese wrap ‘n’ roll. Feast to your heart’s delight through Vietnam’s busy streets and alleyways.

Cambodia

From magnificent ancient temples shrouded in luminous jungle to blissful beaches that line the coast, Cambodia is a small country with a huge amount to offer. With the world famous UNESCO protected temples of Angkor at its centre along with its burgeoning riverside capital, Phnom Penh, dig deep for captivating insights into Cambodia’s intoxicating past – making Cambodia a country bursting with things to do, easily filling four to five days as part of a longer tour.

• Cambodia for Families: From the patchwork of paddy fields to the world-famous temples of Angkor, Cambodia offers everything for an exotic out-of-the-box family adventure. Try gourmet temple breakfasts, experience kayaking on Tonle Sap Lake, or even helicopter to remote and rarely seen temples. Scott Dunn is here to create the most amazing family for your 7, 17, and 70 year olds.
• Cambodia for Honeymooners: Epic Cambodia makes a luxuriously romantic escape in Amansara in Siem Reap and the indulgent island resort of Song Saa on Cambodian’s coast. With a wealth of unique and luxurious accommodations, private island escapes and one-in-a-lifetime experiences. Enjoy exquisite farm-to-table gourmet meals surrounded by paddy fields before going on breath-taking helicopter tours to remote locations across Cambodia.
• Our Guide to Cambodia: As Asia’s most celebrated destinations packed full of other worldly experiences Cambodia brings a sense of mysticism with an exploration of ancient temples tangled in jungle at dawn and experience the revered Angkor Wat soaring from the dusty plains at sunrise. Navigate its sleepy colonial towns and luxuriate on its glistening beaches as you enjoy warming smiles in its pristine villages. Ideal for families and couples alike, Cambodia offers visitors a wealth of experiences and insight into one of the world’s most fascinating histories where you can be sure to succumb to its charm.
• Unique Experience: Your own private dinner at the Angkorian temple lit up at night offers a breathtaking backdrop for any special occasion. Greeted at this stunning setting with pre-dinner drinks and canapés, dine on sumptuous Khmer cuisine and enjoy a traditional Apsara Dance Show for the evening’s entertainment while gaining insight into the current Cambodian cultural renaissance.

Thailand

Legendary white sandy beaches and warm people are only a small part of the appeal that draws people to Thailand. A land of contrasts, expect an overload to the senses with an eclectic mix of glistening temples, chaotic cities, and delicious Thai food.

• Thailand for Families: Thailand comes to life with a range of unique family-friendly experiences that go beyond the obvious. Take your youngest to the east coast for calm, shallow seas – perfect for new swimmers, or to the range of glimmering temples to marvel at playful monkeys and cave shrines. Many temples also have fortune-telling areas, which is an especially fun hands-on experience for children. Zip around the city in a tuk tuk and spend a day at an elephant sanctuary for the highlight of every family adventure in Thailand.
• Thailand for Honeymooners: An undeniably romantic backdrop, Thailand has the potential for many great journeys around the country. A popular option is to explore some of its dreamy islands and their luxury hideaways overlooking immaculate beaches and sapphire waters. Scott Dunn’s itineraries will take you East Coast Island Hopping, Floating Markets, and Powdery Beaches. Sample some of the most heavenly resorts and retreats in the country twinned with incredible experiences and vistas to really make your once-in-a-lifetime honeymoon an unforgettable one.
• Our Guide to Thailand: As one of the most visited of all Southeast Asian countries, Thailand is a blend of sacred spaces, refined cuisine, vibrant metropolis, incredible beaches alongside crystal waters and jungle landscape hiding ancient ruins and magnificent elephants. Encounter off-the-beaten-track villages in the northern mountains, waterfalls and boundless expanses of verdant rice paddies as you venture through the Thai culture in style and sophistication with some magical experiences thrown in for good measure.
• Unique Experience: Keep an eye out for the local wildlife including gibbons, deer, wild boars and more than 350 species of birds as you trek through the Doi Inthanon Waterfalls which plummet 70 metres before crashing into the shallow pools at the base of the falls. Spend some time here enjoying the wonderful natural surroundings before heading back to Chiang Mai.

Borneo

Borneo’s emerald rainforests and rugged mountains are some of the most diverse in the world – with an incredible array of plans and wildlife; so much so that Sir David Attenborough has described the island as one of the planet’s “richest treasure-houses”. From world-class diving through the vibrant coral reefs off Sabah’s coastline to peaceful river cruises, Borneo is a fascinating island offering unforgettable wildlife encounters.

• Family Fun in Malaysia and Borneo: Ideally suited for families, uncover the very best of what Borneo has to offer. From exhilarating water sports off Sabah’s coastline to peaceful river cruising along the Kinabatangan River in search of orangutans and proboscis monkeys, the whole family will enjoy exploring our top picks for Malaysia and Borneo.
• Borneo for Couples: Scott Dunn’s Epic Malaysia and Borneo itinerary is perfect for honeymooners. We’ve set the bar high with this incredible two-week adventure to Borneo. Get ready for wildlife encounters, lush emerald jungles and tropical marine underworlds, dine at world-class restaurants and enjoy romantic moments under the moonlight on a deserted beach. This is a unique opportunity to discover new things and relax with the one you love.
• Ultimate Borneo: Journey through the heart of Malaysian Borneo, see pygmy elephants and orangutans in the pristine Kinabatangan Wetlands area before enjoying some respite on one of Sabah’s beautiful outer islands, Gaya Island. For a truly special experience, stay at a traditional rainforest lodge deep within the Danum Valley as the perfect introduction to Borneo and its highlights, combining incredible wildlife with the stunning beaches.
• Unique Experience: Immerse in the Orangutan’s natural habitat and discover the wonders of the Sepilok Orangutan and Sun Bear Sanctuary. Spanning 43 square kilometres and currently home to 60 to 80 orphaned, injured or previously captive orangutans, watch them learn to climb on ropes and trees in this once-in-a-lifetime experience.

Which South East Asia travel adventure is calling out to you?

Even though I have visited different destinations in South East Asia, there are still a lot more travel adventures for me to explore and discover. I am always seeking nature and outdoors adventures, high up in the mountains or deep into the rainforest.

There are many travel adventures out there for you in South East Asia for you to discover and explore. Which South East Asia travel adventure is calling out to you?

* Information and pictures courtesy of Scott Dunn and White Label PR *

The post Rediscover South East Asia again with Scott Dunn appeared first on TGH Photography and Travel Portal/Blog.

Currently, there are three Soi 47 Mookata locations to choose from, you can now enjoy authentic charcoal grill Thai Mookata with your family, loved ones, relatives and friends. There is a wide selection of dishes to choose from, or you can go with the 2 pax set menu that they have specially prepared for you, priced at S$29.90, this is a value for money 2 pax set menu. Therefore you won’t have a headache on which dishes to choose from. If your foodie eating group prefers to order Ala Carte, the minimum order is S$30, that is not likely to be an issue when you have 3 to 5 pax or more people eating together. 

My cousin Brandon, his wife Sharon and myself went to Soi 47 Mookata at Ang Mo Kio, they are located inside the Food Loft kopitiam. This block is located beside Mayflower TEL MRT station, it’s pretty accessible by a number of bus services plying that area.

Whether you are going for the 2 pax set meal menu, or Ala Carte, the first step to choose your soup base, Tom Yum Soup or Collagen Soup, followed by your order, and you are good to go ahead and enjoy your charcoal grill Thai Mookata! The three of us decided to go for the collagen soup base! 

On the Soi 47 Mookata 2 pax set meal menu, these items, garlic pork sliced, garlic chicken sliced, tom yum chicken sliced, pork belly sliced and pork collar are my favourite dishes. If you like to add more items to your 2 pax set menu, go ahead and add them to your orders! Personally, I like the home made pork patties and moo ping items, therefore, I highly recommend those 2 items!

There are 4 Thai Chilli dipping sauce for you to choose from, Sour Chilli, Sour Sweet, Sweet Chilli, Extra Spicy. For Thai spices/chilli food lovers who can take spicy food, ask for the Chef’s recommendation on how they can make it more spicy for you!

While using charcoal to grill and cook your Thai Mookata is slower and you can’t control the fire, the taste of charcoal grilled food is superb, the wok hey taste, aroma, feel and atmosphere, win it hands down. Grilling the Thai Mookata dishes over charcoal fire, taking the time to relax, enjoy and have a good foodie gathering time at Soi 47 Mookata.

If you have been searching for a delicious, authentic charcoal grilled Thai Mookata with your family, loved ones and friends, Soi 47 Mookata is the Thai Mu Kratha that you are looking for! Visit the Soi 47 Mookata location near you, have a wonderful time at Soi 47 Mookata! 

Locations

Blk 324 Bukit Batok Street 33, #01-31 Singapore 650324

Blk 5 Tanjong Pagar Plaza #02-04/05 Singapore 081005

Blk 107 Ang Mo Kio Avenue 4 Singapore 560107

Opening hours: 5pm to 10pm 

Follow Soi 47 Thai Food on social media!

Facebook:https://www.facebook.com/soi47mookata/ 

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/soi47thaifood/ 

Thanks to Soi 47 Mookata for hosting us! We had a great time enjoying authentic charcoal grill Thai Mookata! 

The post Soi 47 Mookata – Authentic Charcoal Grill Mu Kratha appeared first on TGH Photography and Travel Portal/Blog.

My first introduction and visit to Soi47 Thai Food was at their King George Avenue outlet in January 2021, I was treated to a fun and delicious birthday dinner by my cousin Brandon. The food was really delicious and it’s authentically cooked, I still remembered this particular Soi47 Thai Food dish- Steam Seabass with Thai Lime Sauce, upon tasting this Thai dish, it was just like having local Thai food in Thailand! 

Soi47 Thai Food recently opened a new outlet at Clarke Quay Central, they also have two other locations at King George Avenue and Lorong 6 Toa Payoh. My cousin Brandon brought me down to check out Soi47 Thai Food new outlet at Clarke Quay Central. Located at the second floor of Clarke Quay Central, you can spot them when you are at the lobby after alighting at the drop-off point.  

Upon entering Soi47 Thai Food at Clarke Quay, it has a cosy ambience, lively and well suited for families and group of friends looking to have a good Thai food experience and time there. They have a balcony space for outdoor dining too! It’s overlooking Singapore River, the feel of dining by the river might be attractive to some of you especially during the evening and night time.

Authentic and Delicious Thai Food at Soi47

When you flip through the menu at Soi47, you would be spoilt for choices, which Thai dishes should I choose to have? 

While some might choose to share Soi47 favourites/chef recommendations, I decided to do a different approach this time and share my selection of Thai dishes on the menu that I personally like a lot.

First and foremost, let’s start off with some yummy appetisers before heading into the main course meals!

Mango Salad

For someone that doesn’t really like to eat mango, when it comes to Thai Mango Salad, I would eat it! This is a very refreshing and delicious appetiser before your Thai food main course meals. I also found out from their menu that they have other varieties such as Mango Salad with Seafood and Mango Salad with Prawns, maybe I should try them next time.

Deep Fried Drumsticks with Garlic 

When my cousin WK and myself were there at Soi47 Clarke Quay, we found this dish Deep Fried Drumsticks with Garlic and we decided to order it. This is an excellent appetiser, highly recommended, delicious and addictive! This dish brought me back memories of my night street markets foodie adventures in Thailand!

Phad Thai with Chicken

My favourite Thai dish, it’s like my staple Thai food that I must have whenever I have the opportunity whether I am in Thailand or in Singapore eating Thai food. I really like the Chef’s Pad Thai cooking style, not too wet and not too dry too. Different regions in Thailand cook their Phad Thai slightly differently, thus I would give my favourite Thai dish that extra attention. 

Green Curry with Chicken 

This is an another well-known Thai dish, it’s well-liked by many Thai food fans I reckon. This soup base is creamy and fragrant, ddd. Pair up a bowl of Thai fragrant rice with this Green Curry with Chicken, just as wonderful for an individual meal or one of the many Thai dishes that you can share when you are out for communal dining with your family, relatives or friends.

Thai Basil Pork with Rice

A Thai food favourite that may not get the attention it deserves, this is like my alternate staple Thai food that I would have when I am not having Phad Thai or Thai Green Curry. More than just an authentic Thai food, it warms my heart and soul, as well as love for Thai food.  

Tom Yam Soup (Clear Style) with Seafood 

There are not too many places here in Singapore that serve Tom Yam Soup (Clear Style), the cream style Tom Yam Soup probably gets more attention and appeal. I missed this clear style Tom Yam Soup, it wasn’t too spicy for me, therefore this would suit diners who can’t take too spicy Tom Yam Soup (Clear Style).

Tom Yam Soup (Cream Style) with Seafood 

This is a well-known Thai dish, it’s well-liked by many Thai food fans I reckon. This soup base is creamy and fragrant, filled with fresh seafood and I really like their deep-fried fish slices. Pair up a bowl of Thai fragrant rice with this Tom Yam Soup (Cream Style) with Seafood, absolutely wonderful for an individual meal or one of the many Thai dishes that you can share when you are out for communal dining with your family, relatives or friends. 

Thai Iced Tea 

This is another of my favourite Thai food, I would always get a Thai Iced Tea, just like my staple Thai food Phad Thai. Their Thai Iced Tea is fragrant and wonderful, just like having an authentic Thai Iced Tea in Thailand. 

Soi47 Chef Recommendations

Soi47 Thai Food does have its favourites/chef recommendations, you definitely have to try them or have a few of them in your selections when you visit them with your family, relatives, loved ones and friends. 

Soi47 Thai Food @ Clarke Quay Central

Address: 6 Eu Tong Seng Street, Clarke Quay Central, #02-78 Singapore 059817

Opening Hours: Monday – Sunday 11:30am to 3:00pm (last order 2:30pm) and 5:30pm to 10:00pm (last order 9:30pm)

Do visit, check out and follow Soi47 social media channels for more information and updates!

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/soi47thaifood/ 

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/soi47thaifood/ 

Coming soon! Part 2 of my Soi47 Thai Food Adventure!

Coming soon, in part 2 of my Soi47 Thai food adventure, I would share another round of delicious Thai food from Soi47 as I return to celebrate my January birthday at Soi47 Thai Food, the stories behind Soi47 Thai Food and what are some of the Thai cuisine that you and your family can plan to have for a Chinese New Year Reunion Dinner at Soi47 Thai Food. 

That are still many more delicious and authentic Thai food dishes at Soi47 Thai Food for me to taste and enjoy, this would be a great time to gather family, relatives and friends for a good catchup over food at Soi47 Thai Food.

If you are a Thai food lover like myself, do visit Soi47 Thai Food outlets at Clarke Quay, King George Avenue or Toa Payoh and have a wonderful Thai food feasting time there!

** I would like to thank Soi47 Thai Food for hosting this food tasting opportunity. **

The post Authentic and Delicious Thai Food at Soi47 Clarke Quay appeared first on TGH Photography and Travel Portal/Blog.

The ongoing global pandemic has caused massive economic and financial impacts to the world tourism and travel industries. I wrote, shared and published an earlier article on “When can we Restart Tourism?” in June 2021. I was cautiously optimistic, however the world situation didn’t go according as planned with the Delta variant causing havoc and further disruptions towards many countries plans to reopen their economy, as well as their tourism and travel industries. On World Tourism Day 2021, this would be my follow up article that I published earlier in June 2021.

Looking back at my travel adventures over the years, I am missing it a lot. During this ongoing global pandemic period, my wanderlust for travel has also made me reflect a lot on the future of travel as it would never be the same again before the days of COVID-19. 

First and foremost, I will now always remember these words of wisdom, travel may be a privilege for some of us, not everyone can get to travel out overseas. This ongoing global pandemic could have further widen this gap between those that can travel and those who can’t.

When the time arrives whereby we can Restart Tourism, travel overseas safely again, this would be the time to add on more travel photography adventures to my TGH Photography travel portfolio, Flickr travel photography collections and travel explorer stories here on my TGH Photography and Travel Portal/Blog.

I am keen to work on two areas when the world travel and tourism industries reopen – community based tourism and nature based/conservation/sustainable tourism. As we are preparing for the eventual reopening and recovery of the world travel and tourism industries, I am reaching out to the travel and tourism worldwide networks on collaborations and partnerships.  

While this global pandemic situation has caused massive impacts to the world tourism and travel industries, this is also an excellent opportunity for a “reset”, to address and change some of our tourism and travel industry standards, operating procedures, practices, mindsets, habits etc etc, to make a change for the better, for the future. 

Let’s help to restart the world tourism and travel industries again when it is safe to do so, sometime down the road, hopefully soon. Meanwhile, do support your local/domestic travel and tourism industries too. This is the time for inclusive growth. 

Meanwhile, when can we restart tourism again? A number of countries have started to open up their tourism markets in small and at specific destinations. Some countries have started to open up more than other countries. We are all taking steps towards reopening the international tourism and travel industries.

Till the day when we can safely #RestartTourism and travel overseas again, take care and be safe! I look forward to meeting my travel and tourism network friends when I get the opportunity to travel and visit them in their countries! 

The post World Tourism Day 2021 appeared first on TGH Photography and Travel Portal/Blog.

Before I visited Kin Hoi at their Holland Close outlet, I checked them out on their website and Instagram. They have a good spread of different Thai cuisine on their menu, it looks really delicious and tempting. What did I have when I visited Kin Hoi? 

Now, let me bring you through my foodie adventure – Taste of Authentic Thai Food at Kin Hoi.

Honey grilled pork 

A Thai street market food, grilled to perfection without overcooking the pork, that’s how high their cooking skills and experience that Kin Hoi possess. Dip it with their signature Thai Chilli Sauce, you might feel that you are brought back into the local Thai street market. 

Just a gentle friendly reminder that it’s so delicious that you might find it addictive and wanting to order another round of honey grilled pork. 

Melting beef 

For those who love beef, Kin Hoi’s melting beef is going to bring you into another world! It’s fried and grilled, very tasty, well marinated, absolutely delicious and delightful! Oh yes, this melting beef goes very well with their Kin Hoi Thai signature chilli sauce! 

Just like their honey grilled pork, you might find yourself wanting to order another round of the melting beef, it’s so delicious, so addictive! Kin Hoi don’t name this dish, “Melting Beef” for nothing, this beef dish really melts in your mouth! 

Thai crab meat omelette 

Another Thai food favourite, the rich, flavourful Wok Hei omelette is going to be well-liked by the customers too. Ideal for sharing with a group of family, relatives and friends. They are generous with their crab meat, inside and on top of the omelette. 

Fried Tung Hoon 

For Thai food lovers, their fried tung hoon is not just a popular Thai dish. It may be a simple Thai dish, it’s authentic Thai street food that warms your heart, mind, soul and taste buds. This fried tung hoon goes really well with other Thai dishes together. Oh yes, don’t miss the pork lard on the fried tung hoon! 

It’s not just having good quality ingredients, the skill and experience in cooking the fried tung hoon can be seen, felt and tasted. Try their fried tung hoon and you would know why. 

Must try! Cannot miss this!

Thai signature chilli sauce – co-founder home chilli recipe from her mum. Your tastebuds would go like this, starting off from sour, sweet and lastly a spicy feel with fish sauce that is not overpowering.

If you are a fan of Thai chilli and spices, I reckon you would like Kin Hoi’s signature chilli sauce. A must try, you cannot miss this, it’s perfect for Kin Hoi’s dishes on their menu. 

New dish on the block!

Thai Duck Noodle Soup – chewy noodles (authentic Thai ingredients, not commonly seen in Singapore). Herbs, soup brewed from duck bones. Their soup is not those heavy body flavoured type duck soup that we might be used to in Singapore. Thus, you can feel and taste the herbs and flavour when you try their Thai Duck Noodle Soup.  

It’s currently only available at their Holland Close outlet, I reckon this would a lunch crowd favourite, and you can add on their other dishes to go along with your lunch break buddy. 

More than just shellfish and cockles at Kin Hoi

While shellfish and cockles are the first few dishes on their menu when Kin Hoi first launched their food business, they are more than just shellfish and cockles at Kin Hoi. They have a good wide spread of authentic Thai cuisine on their menu.

There are many more dishes on Kin Hoi’s menu that I have yet to try, I hope to return back again with my friends and try the other dishes on their menu. 

Q&A with Daniel Teo

During my visit to Kin Hoi, I also met with Daniel Teo, one of the co-founders of Kin Hoi at their Holland Close outlet, who took precious time off from running his Kin Hoi food business operations to sit down and have a chat with me. 

1. What inspired you to start Kin Hoi?

My co-founder is Thai, she’s a Singapore PR, she cooks at home and she has her home made Thai signature chilli sauce. 

We both come from corporate backgrounds, starting off from home based food business. As the home based food business started to grow, we decided to take the plunge, starting off at Holland Close Blk 6 with half a stall, eventually taking on the full stall.

We slowed down our home delivery business to establish the stall. Once it has stabilised, we reinvested in your own delivery system, our in-house delivery, followed by a central kitchen for delivery that also allow bigger menu selection. 

Now we have two outlets, one at Holland Close, the other outlet is at Toa Payoh, both for dine in and takeaway.     

2. What are your favourite dishes? What dishes are most commonly ordered by your customers?

For myself, street style Fried Tung Hoon, egg omelette with crab, honey grilled pork, gong gong, a must with the signature chilli sauce.

As for my customers, it’s shellfish/cockle, Fried Tung Hoon with honey grilled pork or melting beef

3. How would you describe the style of your cuisine? Do you have a cooking philosophy?

More of an authentic home cooked Thai style. We do not wish to specialise in a few Thai dishes. They are some of my favourite dishes with the Thai signature chilli. We are more than just Thai seafood with our Thai cuisine menu on offer. 

My philosophy is, all the food on my menu must be delicious/good, the choice lies with the customer which dish they like. We placed great importance on our customer service. 

4. What can customers expect from your kitchen in the near future?

Yes, we are looking at expanding our Thai cuisine menu on offer, some of the dishes we are looking at are Wok hey crab fried rice, Thai fried kway Teow (not Phad Thai).

5. How has the recent Phase 2 Heightened Alert (P2HA) and the cluster from the fishery operations at Jurong Port affected your business? 

P2HA has affected the business a lot. For our Thai dishes, it’s best to sit down, eat it hot when served and with a group of family, relatives or friends.

One of the suppliers at Jurong Port was affected, the price of our ingredients increased, however we absorbed the additional costs. During this time, we looked out for alternative suppliers and found more to get our ingredients from. 

6. You have two outlets – Holland Close and Toa Payoh – at the moment. Will we be seeing more outlets in Singapore?

As for future expansion, we are looking at Jurong region for the west side and another in the east side. Holland Close takes care of the south side of Singapore while Toa Payoh takes care of north and north-east side of Singapore. A bigger expansion is on the cards down the road. 

We have set a goal for ourselves to be best food delivery in Singapore.

7. How would you describe Kin Hoi’s Singapore foodie journey over the past one year?

In November 2020, we open our first outlet at Holland Close,  it had been a roller coaster ride of blood, sweat and tears. The amount of stress and pressure in running a business can be overwhelming at times.

A taste of authentic Thai food at Kin Hoi

For all Thai food lovers out here in Singapore, you can get a taste of authentic Thai food at Kin Hoi. Not just authentic Thai food, it’s the warmth and homely Thai cuisine that makes foodies love and appreciate Thai food that much. 

You can always feel the deep passion, love, pride, standards and quality of a cuisine through their cooking. At Kin Hoi, that’s what you are going to receive and enjoy when you taste their authentic and home feel Thai food. 

Kin Hoi’s menu are perfect for group dining with their widespread choices of Thai cuisine on their menu, eating it hot and freshly cooked from the stall to your table at the kopitiam. However, due to the current safety measures restrictions imposed on dining out due to the ongoing global pandemic, we can’t eat as much variety of Kin Hoi’s Thai food on offer with just 2 person dining out. When dining out restrictions are gradually lifted down the road and we can have more than 2 person dining at kopitiam, get your family, loved ones, relatives and friends to join you to have a taste of authentic Thai food at Kin Hoi.

Meanwhile, you can still order online from Kin Hoi’s website, deliver it to your home and enjoy it from the comfort of your home too. However, I still personally prefer to eat it hot and freshly cooked from the stove, served to the dining table at the kopitiam.

In my conversation with Daniel, I can feel and relate to his time, commitment and passion that he invested into Kin Hoi, coming from a small photography business owner myself. Operating a business during this global pandemic is no mean feat, small and medium business owners like Kin Hoi and like myself are some of those that have been hit badly. 

A new age food business owner that took the plunge and made the switch from a corporate world, displaying his entrepreneurial spirit, leadership and courage during this global pandemic crisis period. Daniel’s passion and commitment can be felt at/seen through Kin Hoi, their amazing and delicious authentic Thai food, social media platforms and care for the staff working at Kin Hoi. 

For Thai food lovers in Singapore, you have to visit Kin Hoi and have a taste of authentic Thai food at Kin Hoi for yourself, it’s just like a foodie trip down your favourite Thai street/home cooked food. 

Information on Kin Hoi 

Outlet locations

Holland Close outlet – Block 6 Holland Close S271006

Toa Payoh outlet – Block 168 Lorong 1 Toa Payoh S310168

Website: https://kinhoi.sg/ 

Facebook Page: https://www.facebook.com/kinhoi.sg/ 

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kinhoi.sg/ 

Last but not least, I would like to thank Daniel of Kin Hoi for taking his precious time from running his business operations to sit down and have a chat with me, for his warm hospitality and tasting a few of their delicious Thai cuisine. I would also like to thank Saltine Communications for facilitating this food visit and interview. 

The post Taste of Authentic Thai Food at Kin Hoi appeared first on TGH Photography and Travel Portal/Blog.

Say Sawasdee to the tastes of Thailand anytime, anywhere

It’s time to Say Sawasdee to the tastes of Thailand anytime, anywhere, with 7-Eleven’s new menu of iconic Thai-inspired dishes, including the five classic dishes below:

7-SELECT Thai Boat Noodles (U.P $4.50) This authentic Thai signature street food features beef balls, beansprouts, morning glory, and thin rice noodles in a meaty savoury broth garnished with fragrant fried garlic and spicy chilli flakes. A perfect blend of aromatic flavours, this is comfort food that tastes as good as it looks.

7-SELECT Thai Red Curry Chicken with Rice (U.P $4.50) This dish is fragrant, creamy, sweet and spicy, packed with flavours of dried chilli, garlic, lemongrass, shallots, ginger and coconut milk with a generous serving of long beans, brinjal and chicken. Spicy, creamy and oh so scrumptious!

7-SELECT Phad Thai (U.P $4.00) This crowd-pleasing Thai dish boasts a new and improved recipe. The rice noodles are now more al dente, coated with a distinctly sweet and sour sauce containing tamarind and Thai fish sauce that is now even more flavourful. Talk about the perfect balance of taste and texture!

7-SELECT Thai Glass Noodle Salad (U.P $2.90) A refreshing and spicy salad made with shallots, lemon, and garlic on a bed of vermicelli and minced chicken, the aromas and textures complement each other perfectly, making it the ideal appetiser before you dig into the mains!

7-SELECT Tom Yum Soup (U.P $3.00) No Thai meal is complete without a bowl of hot Tom Yum Soup, arguably the most famous dish in Thai cuisine. This flavoursome soup features juicy prawns, fish and mushrooms whilst the broth is seasoned with fresh lemongrass, kaffir lime leaves, coriander, galangal, fish sauce, and chilli.

There are also other Thai-inspired delights available at 7-Eleven:

• 7-SELECT Thai Basil Chicken with Rice
• Fresh Coconut
• First Brew Lemongrass Drink
• Alfredo Tom Yum Goong Pizza Slice

From 18 Aug – 14 Sep 2021, enjoy $0.50 off 7-SELECT Thai Glass Noodle Salad or Tom Yum Soup when you buy some of the 7-SELECT Thai items!

Cool down with our new and refreshing limited-edition Mr Softee flavour and Thai Milk Teas

There is a Mr Softee Coconut (U.P $1.50). inspired by the must-try coconut ice cream at Chatuchak Market, the brand new soft serve variety concocted as a cherry on top of all the Thai food to be devoured.

7-Eleven has also introduced a new range of thirst-quenching 7CAFÉ Thai Milk Teas (Hot $2.40, Iced $3). each cup, comprising an authentic blend of Assam tea direct from India, is brewed to smooth perfection! Looking for a stronger caffeine kick? Try the 7CAFÉ Iced Thai Coffee Milk Tea (U.P $3.50) – a tasty and energising start to the day!

Do share this wonderful Thai food delights by 7-Eleven with your family, loved ones, relatives and friends, especially those who love Thai food! Pay-It-Forward and Pass-It-On! Sharing is Caring!

* Information and picture courtesy of 7-Eleven Singapore and Media Outreach *

The post Grab a Taste of Thailand at 7-Eleven appeared first on TGH Photography and Travel Portal/Blog.

I love the great outdoors, nature and wildlife, not just back home in Singapore, traveling around the world, trekking, climbing mountains, national parks, enjoying the beauty and tranquility of Mother Nature. Getting inside into nature, rainforest, surrounded by tall lush trees and its canopy, I enjoyed forest bathing therapy with my photography setup, capturing the lush greenery and wildlife. 

From the mountains, to the rainforests and oceans, Earth has many beautiful and amazing natural environments that we need to protect and preserve. While I am unable to visit all of them, I am blessed and mesmerised by some of the destinations that I left my footprints behind.   

As I started to get more conscious of my travel and carbon footprints over time, I have also witnessed more natural disasters taking place in other parts of the world and they are not getting smaller in magnitude and size. All these gradually push me as an individual to think again on my types and levels of consumption in this current world that we are living in. I am also looking at businesses, from famers, manufacturers to service providers (e.g. travel agencies, accommodation) on their green eco-friendly models and practices. 

We need to prevent, stop and reverse the damages that we have already inflicted on our planet Earth, now this is the time for ecosystem restoration. We need to stop exploiting nature to restoring and healing it. Only with a healthy ecosystem, can we improve peoples’ livelihood, counteract climate change and prevent the collapse of Earth’s biodiversity.

Every individual on planet Earth has a role to play, no matter how big or small, you can be a part of #GenerationRestoration and make a difference, for your family and loved ones, and to Mother Earth, for the sake of our future generations. 

When we are able to safely travel again once the global pandemic is under control, I would continue to seek my travel photography adventures to the great outdoors, nature and wildlife destinations around the world with green eco-friendly models and practices. 

The post World Environment Day 2021 appeared first on TGH Photography and Travel Portal/Blog.

Brief history and cultural signifance of Elephants in Thailand

Elephants play an important role in Thai society, culture and history. The elephant is the official national animal of Thailand, therefore their presence can be seen in many parts of Thailand. Historically, elephants played different roles in Thai society, from fighting wars, to providing manual heavy labour, transportation to the tourism industry today.

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Elephants_in_Thailand

Visit to Maesa Elephant Camp

Maesa Elephant Camp is a tourist destination in Chiang Mai, Thailand, establisehd on 8^thApril 1976 by Mr Choochart Kalmapijit. Over the decades, they have transformed, not just on the elephant show performance, they have also evolved into a well organised system and network to take care of the elephants when they are young as well as when the elephants are retired, along with a healthy supply of food and medical care for the elephants under their charge.

There are theree destinations to visit within Maesa Elephant Camp, let me bring you through the activities that you can participate, learn and interact with the elephants and the people taking care of them, from my short stories and photographs.

For the visits to Maesa Elephant Nursery and Maesa Elder Camp, visitors can change into their Maesa Elephant Camp attire and you do not need to worry about getting your clothes sweaty, dirty or wet from interacting with the elephants or when having your hands on activities to learn more about elephant care, nutrition and food preparation.

1) Thai Elephant Kingdom at Maesa Elephant Camp

The star attraction of Maesa Elephant Camp, a well known tourist destination in Thailand, popular with tourists when you look at the number of visitors there. Visitors can buy fruits and get up close to the elephants in their enclosure, feeding them, playing with them, getting their photos taken by their family, relatives or friends.

Prior to the main performance show by the elephants, the elephants would head down to the river stream for a bath and shower, watched by the enthusiastic crowds of visitors from the sides.

At the main performance ground inside Maesa Elephant Camp, visitors were sitted around the arena, watching the elephants perform, from playing football, drawing paintings, how they do logging during the era when logging was permitted in Thailand.

The elephants are smart and friendly, popular with the visitors there. After the performance ended, the elephants would go to the sides and interact with the visitors, posing for photographs and getting more of their favourite fruits.

2) Maesa Elephant Nursery

The Maesa Elephant Nursery is similar to the Masea Elder Camp, except that it’s for the young and baby elephants. Visitors are able to feed and watch the young elephants at the nursery. When you visit the mummy elephant with her baby elephant, do be careful as the mummy elephant might be more protective of her baby, just like a parent being protective of their child.

Tiffany, Peps, Valentino and myself prepared some food and nutrition for the baby elepant into a toy for one of the baby elephants to play with.  The baby elephant was really cute and adorable, very enthusiastic, played with the toy that we made! Just like the other two destinations at Maesa Elephant Camp, the elephants love their fruits, you can feed them and interact with the elephants!

Visitors can also bath and shower the young elephant at the river stream, a fun and interactive activity for visitors and for the elephant! I reckon the elephants love getting a swim, bath and shower in the river stream, while being taken care of by visitors and the elephant care person.

3) The Thai Elephant Care Center (Maesa Elder Camp)

For the elephants that are older in age, they would still be taken care of when they retire, at the Thai Elephant Care Center (Maesa Elder Camp). The retiree elephants health and nutrition are taken care of carefully by the staff of Maesa Elephant Camp.

For visitors to the Maesa Elder Camp, they have tours for them to join. They are able to have a hands on experience in preparing food for the elephants, bringing it to some of the elephants, feeding them and patting them. One of the hands on experience that visitors can have is preparing health supplements for the retired older elephants, guided by the elephant doctors. Besides having good and nutritious diet, the elderly elephants also go for walking exercises with their care person too, you can spot them walking around the Maesa Elder Camp!

Visitors can also have the experience of showering/bathing the elephant in the river, the elephant likes having a bath time in the river, getting scrubbed clean. It’s a fun and enjoyable experience for visitors too, getting into the cold river stream with the elephant.

Overall, the retiree elephants are friendly and nice, even though they are big in size. They can be pretty enthusiastic when it comes to food, just like us human beings!

Maesa Elephant Camp, to visit or not?

First and foremost, elephant shows in Thailand, have its fair share of bad press and ill treatments of the elephants, the stories and photos can be found on the internet and social media.

During my visit to Maesa Elephant Camp, visiting their three different destinations, Thai Elephant Kingdom at Maesa Elephant Camp, Maesa Elephant Nursery and The Thai Elephant Care Center (Maesa Elder Camp), I observed that they do take good care of their elephants, from young to old.

My personal recommendation for visitors, if you are planning to visit Maesa Elephant Camp, is to visit all three destinations, Thai Elephant Kingdom at Maesa Elephant Camp, Maesa Elephant Nursery and The Thai Elephant Care Center (Maesa Elder Camp). This would allow the you, to have a holistic and better understanding of Maesa Elephant Camp, their activities, meals, nutrition and health care for young, adult and elderly elephants, and not just the main tourist attraction at the Elephant Kingdom at Maesa Elephant Camp.

Photographs that I took during our visit to Maesa Elephant Camp can be viewed here inside this flickr photo album! Do check out my Chiang Mai travel adventure photographs of the various destinations that we visited during our Chiang Mai travel adventures!

Do visit my fellow traveler Tiffany’s article coverage on our visit to Maesa Elephant Camp – https://www.tiffanyyong.com/2018/03/24/maesa-elephant-camp-chiangmai/

If you would like to visit Maesa Elephant Camp during your travel holidays to Chiang Mai, Thailand, the information is as follows:

Maesa Elephant Camp

Address: Office: 119/9 Tapae Rd., Muang District, Chiang Mai Thailand 50100

Website:https://maesaelephantcamp.com

Email:info@maesaelephantcamp.com

Telephone: (+66)5320 6247, (+66)5320 6248

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Maesaelephantcamp/

I would like to thank Maesa Elephant Camp for hosting us during our two days visit to Thai Elephant Kingdom at Maesa Elephant Camp, Maesa Elephant Nursery and The Thai Elephant Care Center (Maesa Elder Camp)

Created with Admarket’s flickrSLiDR.

The post A visit to Maesa Elephant Camp in Chiang Mai, Thailand appeared first on TGH Photography and Travel Portal/Blog.