Kos Serani Raya Collection 2015 Showcase at Iftar with eWana.FM

by Cleffairy // July 12, 2015 // No Comments

Guest photographer: Yard Yarzlil

I’m a little bit of a vainpot these days. Looking good apparently makes me feel good as well, and so, for the upcoming Aidilfitri 2015, I begged my favourite designer, Kos Serani to design something outstanding for me and my boys to wear for the festive season. Despite of receiving overwhelming orders, Kos Serani agreed to indulge my whims and fancy, so I guess I’ll be wearing beautifully unique designer’s label this coming festive season instead of my usual ready made clothing bought off from the retail stores. I have no doubt that Kos Serani would make us look striking with his exclusively designed clothing.

Kose Serani has unveiled some of his Hari Raya collection during Iftar with eWana FM at D’Arab Station, Cheras and here’s sharing a sneak peak on some of Kose Designs&Collection for Aidilfitri 2015.

Singing sensation Aftershock performing and entertaining guests during Iftar with eWana FM at D’Arab Station, Cheras.

Celebrating friendship and togetherness at Iftar with eWana FM at D’Arab Station, Cheras.

Delicious Nasi Mandi Ayam served by D’Arab Station, Cheras for iftar.

After the buka puasa session, Kos Serani and his models showcased the new Hari Raya 2015 collection.

Recently crowned Mister Charming 2015, Adam Arjuna flashing his ever charming smile while wearing one of Kos Serani’s baju Melayu. Modest, simple but striking in colour.

Minimalistic Baju Melayu for casual festive events. Definitely great for visiting or attending open houses.

The collection not only emphasized in details but comfort as well.

Another Baju Melayu in Kos Serani’s label. Oriental inspired, this Baju Melayu have the Chinese button’s closure.

Unique Mandarin collar with Chinese button’s closure. Definitely great for those who usually misplace their Baju Melayu buttons.

Not into Baju Melayu and wants something strikingly extraordinary? No fret, there’s this Matrix Jubah for those who wants to be different this festive season.

Aim for the young gentlemen who wants to go all stylish, this was one design in the new collection that receive a lot of attention among the guests. It was the darling of the crowd.

Kos Serani is a maestro in menswear, but the ladies can look forward to some fanficul dresses from him as well. Sweet looking dress, don’t you think?

Pink and elegant with laces and beads.

Pretty in blue.

This is just a sneak peak to Kose Serani Design& Collection. There’s plenty more to come and I’ll be sure to share with all of you here soon. 😉

Add A Modern Twist To Traditional Sweet and Savory Hari Raya Delights with Ayam Brand

by Cleffairy // July 11, 2015 // 1 Comment

Hari Raya is around the corner. How far along are you with preparations for the family gathering, feasting with friends and the open house?

Ayam Brand, famed for its wide range of healthy and convenient, preservative-free canned products, has a selection of four traditional sweet and savory recipes that are quick to prepare, and tasty for Hari Raya.

Surprise the family on the first day of Hari Raya with a breakfast of Sardine Laksa, which combines the rich creaminess of coconut milk, with the smoothness of premium Ayam Brand sardines, perked up with freshness of calamansi lime. It has the taste of traditional laksa that you love, yet can be prepared and ready to serve in half the time with less effort.

Make it a memorable open house with the Thai favorite of Creamy Rice Mango that is both savory and sweet for a delightful snack in place of the more traditional lemang. It is ready to serve in just 30 minutes, but will leave your guests impressed.

Guests will love the flavorful Bubur Cha Cha

And the colorful and refreshing Ice Kacang, both made with Ayam Brand Coconut Milk, and surprisingly quick and easy to prepare.

Add a modern twist to tradition this Hari Raya with these simple to prepare yet visually and tasty recipes from Ayam Brand. For more healthy and easy recipes and for more information on Ayam Brand as well as a wide range of recipes, please visit www.ayambrand.com.my or join facebook : Ayam Brand-World of Recipes

A Star-Studded Ramadan at Klang Parade

by Cleffairy // July 10, 2015 // No Comments

In light of the pensive mood marking the fasting month descending upon Muslims, Klang Parade thus organises the inaugural Fiesta Klang Parade to enliven the atmosphere with a variety of show-stopping performances by acclaimed celebrities like Anuar Zain and Adibah Noor to complement other exciting events and activities happening in the mall throughout the month of June/July.

While Fiesta Klang Parade gets live on 13 June, Saturday, the main event commenced on 14 June, Sunday at 2:30pm, whereby shoppers would be entreated to an opening performance by Azizi Zakaria of the DiGi Celebriteen fame.

Elizabeth Tan, the YouTube starlet who rose to fame last year for her rendition of Sudirman’s Tanggal 31, followed suit and was accompanied by Rejuvenate Dance Crew, who pop, lock, and break it to the tune of Tan’s latest single, “Knock Knock”.

Here’s what happened that late afternoon. Adibah Noor took the stage and performed a couple of her most memorable hits before passing the microphone on to Anuar Zain.

It is a rare sight to have a couple of Malaysia’s most recognisable names in the entertainment industry perform at the same location on the same day, so be sure to catch them during their brief stay at Fiesta Klang Parade.

Other Highlights during Klang Parade Fiesta:

*Baki Zainal hosts the fiesta! He’ll be working closely with deejays from Suria FM to excite shoppers the entire day.

*Suria FM Wheelers will also be present to play games with shoppers and to provide giveaways.

For the first time, Klang Parade will alsp launch its very own Flea Market to coincide with the fiesta over the weekend, featuring a myriad of novelty items for sale.

A Trick Art Gallery is also up on the First Floor (4 – 30 June) and shoppers are invited to participate in a “Snap and Win” Instagram contest. All participants have to do is simply snap a photograph of themselves at the gallery then upload them to their Instagram accounts with the hashtags #KlangParade and #TrickArt. Prizes worth RM3,000 are up for grabs for the most creative and funniest entries, and results will be announced at the end of the month.
Klang Parade’s very own Bazaar Ramadan kicks off from 12 June and will last till 15 July. Still not too late to hop over there for the bazaar people 😉

The Fiesta Klang Parade isn’t a departure from the mall’s usual offerings but rather a continuation of the retail centre’s commitment to provide more appealing opportunities for a wider audience. Understanding the holy month for Muslims can be a rather sedate affair, the fiesta was thus organised to exhilarate shoppers even before they begin to fast.

Rajawali Bazaar Ramadan, Awana Resort Genting

by Cleffairy // July 5, 2015 // No Comments

Guest Photographer: AlienGoTravel
Shots taken with : Nikon Coolpix S33

Fancy breaking fast at 3,000 above sea level? Well then, head over to Rajawali Coffee House in Awana Resort Hotel, Genting Highlands. The restaurant is offering Rajawali Bazaar Ramadhan for this Ramadan 2015, featuring a rather generous buffet spread for your gastronomic pleasure.

As usual, like all of my Ramadan buffet reviews, I’ll just highlight what I think worth having rather than going in depth for each dishes featured at this buffet.

Kambing Bakar Ahmad Rosnie

Australian Roast Lamb, dressed with homemade black pepper sauce and mint sauce. Perfectly done and I definitely wouldn’t mind seconds, but of course I had to save space for other tantalizing dishes offered in the buffet.

Kelantanese Delights, Nasi Kerabu and condiments along with the side dishes.

The all time Malaysians favourite rice dish during special occasions, Nasi Briyani.

Anne Gopal Sappede. This live action stall features freshly made Murtabak, Roti Canai, Roti Telur, Puree, Chappati, Dhosai, Idli and condiments like Parpu Masalah, Tengga Chutney Tomato Chutney and Potato Masala.

Had some Murtabak and thought these are definitely one of the better ones I’ve tasted during Ramadan buffet media previews.

The noodle counter, featuring assorted noodles and sides for you to assemble to your own liking.

The Sup Kambing was simply delicious, definitely a cure for the grumbling tummy.

To my delight, my favourite Laksa Penang is also available at the buffet. Needless to say, I enjoyed this very much.

Kebabs and shawerma is also offered at the Middle East live action stall.

Seafood lovers would be pleased to discover that they are not forgotten. I spotted the grilled flower crabs at the grilled section and thought they are simply sensational.

Not into grilled seafood? That’s fine. There is always Seafood on Ice.

Lok Lok and Yong Taufu

These assorted skewered fishballs and surimis are bland on it’s own, but perfect when paired with the specially made sweet and spicy sauce.

Kak Nor Ratu Kueh section features assorted traditional kuih for you to enjoy.

Fruits to cleanse your palate with.

You may also assemble your own Ais Kacang at the assorted beverages section.

The Ramadan buffet is available starting from 18 June to 16 July 2105, from 6.00 pm to 9.30 pm.

Price:

RM 88.00 nett [adult] ; RM 48.00 nett [child] ; RM 60.00 nett [senior citizen]

RM 60.00 per pax for early birds booking with payment made before 16 June 2015.

The Rajawali Coffee House also caters Sahur for the Muslims, which is available on 18 June to 16 July 2105 from 3.00 am to 5.30 am.

Price:

RM 30.00 nett [adult]
RM 15.00 nett [child]

For bookings and reservations, please hop over to: https://www.rwgenting.com/dining/buffet/rajawali-coffee-house/

First World Hotel Annexe Tower 2A

by Cleffairy // July 5, 2015 // No Comments

Guest Photographer: AlienGoTravel
Shots taken with : Nikon Coolpix S33

Genting Highlands is almost a second home to me and my family. Being a KL-ite, we tend to escape to Genting Highlands during the weekend whenever stress is too much for us to bear or when the weather is overwhelmingly heaty. The place provides the much needed escape from rat race and the hustle and bustle of of the city. To us, there is much more to Genting Highlands than just a well-famed theme park or a gambling paradise.

There’s plenty of interesting places to visit in Genting Highlands. Strawberry Park, Mushroom Farm, Mini Cameron, Lavender Farm, Bee Farm, Chin Swee Cave Temple, just to name a few. These attractions are rarely advertised in comparison to concerts and events that’s going on up in Genting Arena of Stars, but I assure you, it’s worth visiting. I’d be writing about interesting places to visit in Genting Highlands along with a food trail guide for those who are traveling on a shoestring, but for now, let’s start with accommodation, shall we?

There are plenty of resorts and hotels that you could book in while you are staying in Genting Highlands depending on your budget and iterinery, but here’s introducing one that is suitable for those who are interested in the casino and theme park part of Genting Highlands; the new First World Hotel Annexe Tower 2A.

First World Hotel is rated 3 stars and is currently the second largest hotel in the world after MGM Grand Las Vegas. It is our family’s favourite hotel to spend the night at during our short weekend getaways in Genting Highlands. We stayed there plenty of times but during our most recent trip, we stayed at the new First World Hotel Annexe Tower 2A, an extension to First World Hotel Tower 2, where more rooms are offered to accommodate guests.

Walking through the passageway that connects Tower 2 and Tower 2A of the First World hotel, we were greeted by
contemporary setting in the lobby, complete with 3D television visuals, chillmusic and a designer’s featured wall.

There is a fairly decent cafe located opposite of the lobby, known as Terminal 2.

Terminal 2 offers quite an extensive menu in comparison to my favourite lurk, The Bakery located in Genting Grand Hotel.

Assorted pastries and pizzas are freshly prepared for your gastronomic pleasure.

Wide arrays of pastries and delicatessens being displayed on the shelf. They are quite reasonably priced for a cafe in Genting Highlands.

Diners could opt to take away their orders or enjoy their meals in at the cafe overlooking magnificent view.

Moving on to the lobby, self check in and check out kioks can be spotted all around for guests’ convenience, mirroring what’s implemented in First World Hotel Tower 1 and Tower 2.

There are 2 types of check-in kiosk at First World Hotel Annexe Tower 2 A Lobby. One is grey in and another one is green. There are 2 types of check-in kiosk at First World Hotel Lobby. One is grey in and another one is green in color. Grey color is Express Self Check-In while Green kioks is for guests who have means made prior bookings at First World Hotel Genting website where they can directly check-in upon arrival and proceed to get their room number and access card.

To check in:

Step 1 : Touch the screen to begin and select your preferred language (English or Mandarin)
Stsp 2 : Identify yourself with MyKad or passport
Step 3 : Select your booking to check-in. You can also make new reservation if you have not pre-booked in advance
Step 4: Tap the boxes to select your requests
Step 5 : Proceed to check in and confirm your reservation and payment details
Step 6 : Select your preferred payment method and confirm the payment (cash or Genting points)
Step 7: Once your payment is successful, press next to proceed for check-in
Step 8: Merge your reservations if required
Step 9 : Select number of room keys required (one card or 2 cards)
Step 10: Collect your room keys and check-in slip. Check-in is now complete.

Express check in:

Step 1: Scan your MyKad/ Passport (for foreigners)
Step 2 : Confirm your booking information
Step 3: Select the number of room keys (1 or 2) and collect access card with receipt.

To check out, simply insert your access card into the check out machine slot.

There are a few types of rooms offered in this Tower 2A, but here’s our room last weekend. XYZ Deluxe Room, with two single beds. As usual, my husband and I shared one bed while the boy gets to sleep on his own for the night.

Functional wardrobe, kettle, safebox and mini fridge is provided for your convenience. Charging your gadgets is made easy by the International and USB access sockets provided. There is no iron provided. Should you require that, do call up housekeeping and make your request.

Mini Fridge

Electronic kettle and complimentary instant coffee satchets and tea pack.

In-room entertainment includes a flat screen TV.

The shower, the vanity and the toilet shares the same compartment but with seperate cubicles.

The toilet was squeaky clean.

The shower is rather an intimate one. My husband and I loves to share the shower and wash ourselves during bath time, so we find it quite difficult to maneuver in it. Suffice to say, this shower booth is meant to accommodate just one person. Regardless, my husband and I found it rather kinky to share the shower together during our bathtime over here in the room.

Hair dryer is available at the vanity section of the bathroom, so you don’t have to call up housekeeping should you require to use this.

While the room is not a luxurious one, it is undeniably compact and functional. Highly recommended for those who intends to spend their time exploring the theme park, try their hands gambling at the casino or explore tourism spots in Genting Highlands.

For more information on other types of rooms and the rates for this hotel, you may check out this link: https://www.rwgenting.com/hotel/firstworld-hotel/

Selangor Homestay Festival 2015

by Cleffairy // July 3, 2015 // No Comments

Motherhood was quite a trial and terror for me, especially when my son was younger. No, not because he is a special need child and have different milestone in comparison to his peers. I realize that rather late but because I fell prey to the society’s expectation on his milestones, especially the uneducated and terribly uninformed friends and relatives. My son and I, we both thrive when I finally stopped doing what people expects me to do as a parent and goes against the norm. Life gets less stressful and less depressing when I stopped listening to the advises of ‘parenting experts’ all around me. That said, we started to get out of our comfort zone and started exploring our country to widen our horizon and experience things first hand. Couldn’t be more glad that I decided to take that step and if I could turn back time, I would do it again. Only sooner.

Traveling with a young child can be quite a hassle when it comes to transportation, planning a memorable itinerary for each trips and not to mention sleeping arrangements and accommodation. But I have a few tricks up my sleeves when it comes to making the most out of a trip without burning a huge hole in the pocket; which is sign up for an all in planned vacation.

Plenty of travel agencies in Malaysia is offering planned vacation packages for the whole family, but I’m much more inclined to sign up for packages offered by local homestays instead of travel agencies. Stayed and visited plenty of homestays during my FAM trips with Tourism Malaysia and I vouch for their hospitality and planned iterinery. My two favourite homestays got to be Homestay Bukit Gantang, Perak (stayed there for a couple of days during Railway Tourism trip in 2014) and Banghuris Homestay in Sepang. Activities in both of these two places beats a luxury vacation flat, I kid you not. There is a certain charm where you stay with a host and their family, I must say and both my son and husband enjoyed our stays a lot.

I’m constantly on a lookout for what local homestays have to offer and so, when Homestay Festival was held back in May, I couldn’t resist but check it out. I thought perhaps I could sign up for some planned vacations in some of the homestays in Malaysia.

Tourism folks who made the event possible

Here’s checking out booths featuring participating homestays from all over Malaysia.

Spotted some interesting ones. 😉

One of the common planned activities that is usually included in most of these homestays’ itinery; batik painting.

Cooking demo

And craft-making session. Here’s a craft making session activity hosted by Homestay Haji Dorani during the Selangor Homestay Festival 2015.We arrived just in time to join in and weave our own masterpiece.

I failed terribly because I’m very bad with my hands but here’s my son, AlienGoTravel’s masterpiece. Weaved grasshopper. Not too shabby, eh?

Speaking of arts and crafts, some homestays also produce high quality handmade souvenirs.

Pretty keychains, don’t you think? These are handcrafted.

It is interesting to note that each of the participating homestays supports small businesses and entrepreneurs and I directly help to increase their revenue. Local products can be seen being sold at each of the booths and I was told that some homestays is also offering factory visit to tourists who are interested in learning the trade or those who are interested go experience first hand on what happen behind the scene when stuff are made. So yes, you can expect visits to keropok lekor factory or visits to palm oil or coffee factory in some homestays. Play your card right and you’d probably have it included in your homestay vacation packages.

Some homestays even have spa facilities and offers traditional training for those who are interested to learn the trade.

Cultural dance performance to entertain visitors who visited the festival can be seen at intervals. And yes. You can also learn folk dance in some homestays too. I recalled one from Terengganu offering ‘Ulek Mayang’ dance class to their guests. Unfortunately, I can’t remember the name of that particularly homestay, so if you are interested, you’re going to have to Google that.

Malaysia is a very interesting country and have quite a lot to offer when it comes to tourism. Apart from interesting places to visit, we are also rich with cultural diversity.Why not give our own backyard some exploration before we globetrot and take on the world? 😉 I certainly want to do that, and hopefully I could write my first hand experience on what homestays in Malaysia have go offer in the nearest future. 🙂

Selangor Islamic Festival 2015

by Cleffairy // July 3, 2015 // No Comments

This is way overdue, but in my defense, I have to say that my hands are tied and I’ve been terribly busy with traveling and food reviewing.

I nearly forgotten that I’ve been to the Selangor Islamic Festival back in the end of May 2015 until I’ve seen plenty of unpleasant things in my Facebook newsfeed: issues being stirred to provoke racial and religious tension between Muslim and non Muslims and not to mention some Halal issues being thrown in.

Being greeted almost daily with pictures with captions like “Malaysia is no longer multiracial country “, “What dress code? They are just taking away our rights to dress up! We should put a stop to this nonsense!” doesn’t sit well with me as fingers are actually pointing to Islam and Muslims in general for being oppressive and restrictive.

A few years back, I would have nodded in agreement but after spending some time widening my horizon through some traveling, I’d say the issues that has been brought up is terribly ridiculous and to agree with such statement is terribly shallow, as I come to learn that the real Islamic teaching is not exactly oppressive but liberating instead. Islam is easy, but the extremists makes it complicated causing the religion to be constantly misunderstood. I would refrain ffom divulging about those ongoing issuds but suffice to say, I see things differently now.

Anyway, enough ramblings. Here’s sharing with you my experience at the Selangor Islamic Festival 2015.

There were plenty of things to see and do at the Selangor Islamic Fest. There’s cat show, archery competition, food village and of course, booths selling Muslim clothing and hijab, but one that caught my eyes is the ‘Teh Tarik’ session. Entry to the session is free, and so I head over to the registration counter and registered for the talk.

Having attended the ‘Teh Tarik Bersama Asatizah’ during the Selangor Islamic Fest with my husband and son was quite an eye opening experience. It was a two hour talk about Halal issue, traveling in Islam and establishing syariah compliance business. You think such talk is only for Muslims and the Non Muslims should avoid the ‘brainwashing’ talk like a plague? Don’t be so shallow. Think again. Knowledge is power and definitely empowering. Those who are involved in F&B and travel agency business would have benefited greatly from the ‘Teh Tarik’ session where talks on halal certification issues and increasing revenue via Halal food/ Muslim travel packages are given. Q&A session also focused on the mushrooming Islamic tourism and how travelers, both Muslims and non-Muslims alike could make the most out of the specified industry.

People tend to condemn and shy away from the things that they couldn’t understand, but I prefer to try to learn and study about it instead. I think both Muslims and non Muslims in Malaysia could benefit greatly from attending such talks. There is so much to learn and so much misunderstandings and misconception to be cleared.

Here’s Puan Saimah, Deputy Director of Tourism Malaysia Selangor, handing over goodies and certificate of appreciation to speakers and participants of the Teh Tarik Session when the session ends. I think the session ended too soon as I have more questions to ask, especially regarding Islamic tourism and establishing syariah compliance business and making huge revenue out of it, but I guess there will always be next time.

We had some refreshing Teh Tarik to quench our thirst before heading over to the cat exhibition.

Being a cat lover, to say that I enjoyed the exhibition and the cat show is an understatement.

Was feeling rather famished after the catshow, so after grabbing some canned cat food for my fur kids at home we head out to the Food Village to hunt for something to munch on before dinner.

Bought this Coneydog with sliced potato crisps to have on the go before spotting the archery village. Needless to say, such things never fail to intrigue me.

Archers were spotted resting in the makeshift camp.

Professional archers dressed in traditional Malay clothing in action. The guys spotted me and my son snapping photos and invited us to give archery a try, and I have to say, it was quite an experience.

And apparently, I have a hidden talent for archery. 😉 Hit the bullseye and managed quite a score and brought this back home as a compliment and a token to remember the day by.

I would have to say that going to this festival is by far one of the most enlightening and empowering event that I’ve ever been to. And while people thinks that this is only for the Muslims, I definitely think differently and one could benefit greatly from such festival. I surely hope that there will be more events like this in the nearest future and hope this won’t be the last one for me.

Styling Up with XES

by Cleffairy // July 3, 2015 // No Comments

When I was in my early 20s, I couldn’t be bothered much about dressing up or looking stylish. Why? I have no idea why, but looking back, perhaps being a student and a busy young mother contributed to that. My early years of motherhood was very stressful and I barely have time to even relax, what more dress up and actually look presentable whenever I go out. It doesn’t help that my circle of friends during those time was also those who couldn’t be bothered to dress up either. My daily look was very unappealing. I was geeky looking. I usually put on baggy T-shirt, worn out jeans, slippers and old backpacks whenever I go out, but these days, you wouldn’t caught me wearing those stuff if I were to help it. :p

I decided to embrace my feminine side once I hit 30s and I’m now more comfortable wearing dresses whenever I go out. Nobody ever seen me in my grandma-like specs anymore these days as I practically worship coloured contact lenses as if my life depends on it. Only my husband and son is privileged enough to see how crappy I look like in spectacles these days . :p I used to love backpacks as it’s very comfortable and convenient but they are now used strictly for long distance traveling or media trips only.

Some say that I traded comfort for style. Some friends even scorned me for being ‘artificial’, but hey, I like what I’m seeing in the mirror and that’s all that matters. I believe I didn’t exactly sacrifice comfort for style, per se. I’m quite taken to choose brands and labels that’s designed for both style and comfort.

Let’s take bags and shoes for example. I have loads of em at home, but they don’t exactly cost a bomb. I usually go for local brands like shoes and bags by XES instead of shockingly expensive designers’ brand.

The XES brand prides itself for developing perfect and affordable footwear for family everyday use. It continues to generate collections after collections of ladies’, men’s and children’s shoes that widely appeals to the masses for its style, comfort and value for money factor. There are 2 different shoe concepts developed by XES. XES Studio caters to the lower-medium income group whereas XES Premium provides for the medium-high income demographic. Different shoe concept caters to varying circumstances which include but not limited to casual, semi-casual, formal and sports under the house brands of XES. XES also carries selected distinguished shoe brands such as Scholl, Lee Cooper, Bum Equipment, Scorpion and Neckermann.

I have a few of em in my collection, but here’s sharing with you my favourites :

XES brown leather handbag. This one looks rather conservative but there are loads of compartments in it and it makes organizing items much easier. Smart and functional.

See what I mean? Apart from my purse, I can even stuff in my bulky DSLR camera in the bag.

But if I need to go for a short trip or impromptu travel, I use this bag instead.

Blazing red handbag that is big enough to stuff in all the stuff that I need and still functioned as a fashionable bag that helps me look good even during the worst of traveling days.

And then there’s shoes. I have loads of em at home too. But despite being a hopeless vainpot, I couldn’t wear high heels to even save my life. I’m bad at balancing and wearing even shoes with 1 inch heels hurt my back badly, so I always opt for ballerina flats from XES. Being a busy woman, I especially adore the foldable ballerina flats from XES. To date, I have 3 pairs of XES ballerina flats in my collection. They are proven useful and practically saved me from fashion disaster countless times. They are fashionably functional and is great for those who are always on the go and have a lot of things to do every day but requires different set of outfit and accessories to go with. Under the circumstances where my day is busy enough but I need a few pairs of shoes to go by but can’t allocate enough time to go home to change my outfit and footwear, I’ll just fold it up and keep it in my bag to change into it later.

Here’s my husband and I wearing our favourite pair of XES shoes our monthly dance night. 😉 Feels so good to be able to dance the night away and not have the feet killing you by the time the clock strike twelve. 😉 XES shoes is gertainly great for romance too 😉

Wanna be chic and glamourous without burning a hole in the pocket? Wanna style up but not willing to sacrifice comfort? I highly recommend you to go with XES products. I love em and I’m sure you will too.

For more information on XES products and collections, LIKE their Facebook page here: https://facebook.com/xesshoes

Experience Malaysia in July 2015

by Cleffairy // July 1, 2015 // No Comments

After almost one month of Ramadhan, now comes July in which falls Syawal for Muslims to celebrate Hari Raya Aidilfitri. Aside from the Hari Raya celebration, many exciting events will be taking place around Malaysia as well.

George Town and Melaka will hold celebrations to mark their 7th year anniversary as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Those who are into Japanese culture and traditions must not miss the Bon Odori Festival; while Putrajaya will host a werewolf-themed urban obstacle night race – the BloodRunner. If you happen to be in Sarawak at the end of the month, you should check out the Bario Food Festival for some exotic food.

This month, we are also highlighting some interesting and unique museums and galleries around Malaysia – some are pure fun while others give a greater insight into Malaysia’s rich history.

7TH ANNIVERSARY UNESCO WORLD HERITAGE SITE CELEBRATION

Celebrate the 7th anniversary of the inscription of the historic cities of George Town and Melaka as a UNESCO World Heritage Site packed with memorable events for everyone. The twin-city celebrations will bring visitors on the ground to historic sites to enjoy cultural performances, heritage appreciation and have an overall good time.

PENANG:
Date: 4 to 7 July
Venue: Streets of Inner George Town
Organiser: Georgetown World Heritage Incorporated
Contact: +604 261 6606
Website: www.heritagecelebrations.info

MELAKA:
Date: 7 July
Venue: Dataran MBMB, Melaka
Organiser: Melaka City Council
Contact: +606 333 3333 / 1-800-88-8411
Website: www.mbmb.gov.my

NEW MUSEUM IN IPOH:
HAN CHIN PET SOO – A TIN MINER’S CLUB

Ipoh has a brand new privately-run museum which traces the history of Malaya’s grand foray into tin mining in the old days. Han Chin Pet Soo, the Hakka tin miner’s club, was established in 1893 as a recreation club for tin miners to relax after a hard day’s work at the mines. Opium smoking and gambling were among the benefits of membership. Today, this historic building has been restored to its former glory with many original exhibits dating back to more than 100 years ago. Spend an afternoon here to learn about Malaya’s glorious tin mining past, and life during those times, as you view the many fascinating artefacts from a bygone era.

Website : www.ipohworld.org/reservation
Tel : +605 249 5936 / 241 4541
Address : No. 3, Jalan Bijeh Timah (Treacher Street), 30100 Ipoh, Perak

PENANG BON ODORI FESTIVAL

For centuries, Penang has been home to communities from all over the world. This year, why not celebrate the Japanese culture and traditions on this heritage island? The Bon Odori Festival is a traditional summer festival in which the people of Japan honour their ancestors who have passed on, and celebrate their on-going presence in the lives they enjoy today. Also known as Obon, the main event is traditional music and dancing in the streets. Many festival-goers dress in Japanese Kimono, Yukata or Happi coats. Happening in the heart of George Town, this year’s event features Japanese food and refreshments, Taiko and martial arts performances, craft exhibits as well as demonstrations.

Date : 25 July 2015
Venue : Esplanade, Penang
Organiser: Bon Odori Organising Commitee
Contact : +604 650 5136 / 261 9012
Website : www.visitpenang.gov.my

PENANG MITM TRAVEL FAIR

The Penang MITM Travel Fair is back with great travel bargains for all. Attractive domestic travel packages are available to suit your needs and interests for adventure, romantic getaway, affordable family holidays, or luxury retreats!
Date : 4 to 5 July
Venue : Penang International Exhibition Centre
Organiser : Malaysian Chinese Tourism Association
Contact : +604 262 2333
Email : [email protected]

IFTAR@KL TO HONOUR RAMADHAN

The month of Ramadan is a holy month observed by Muslims all over the world. Muslims refrain from eating and drinking, but come evening, they prepare to break their fast with special meals, prayers and spiritual gatherings. Celebrated in honor of the Muslim fasting month, Iftar@KL features a variety of religious programmes such as Terawih Perdana at Dataran Merdeka (Terawih prayers); nasyid; Tilawah & Khatam Al-Quran (Quran Recital) events; food bazaars; special religious forums; talks by international Imams and many more. This peaceful mass gathering in the city is a great way to reflect on unity, spirituality and the beauty of a diverse population. All are welcome!

Date : 18 June to 17 July
Venue : Merdeka Square
Organiser : Ministry of Tourism and Culture
Contact : +603 8891 7521
Website : www.motac.gov.my

BLOODRUNNER 2015

BloodRunner is Asia’s first, werewolf-themed urban obstacle night race ready to take Putrajaya by storm. Set over a 10km urban obstacle course specially created to challenge the everyday runner, BloodRunner brings an added element of thrill and excitement. Expect obstacles that will cater to runners of all levels – be it a seasoned athlete, a first-time runner or a weekend gym warrior. Food trucks are parked at the race festival site, and a post-race party features up-and-coming local bands too!
Date : 31 July 2015
Venue : Putrajaya
Organiser : Switch Strategies Sdn Bhd
Contact : +603 2029 3194
Website : www.bloodrunner.com

BARIO FOOD FESTIVAL

The 10th Anniversary Bario Food & Cultural Festival a.k.a Pesta Nukenan & Kebudayaan Kelabit Bario will be held from 30 July until 1 August this year. The 3-day festival celebrates the unique food, farming, forest and cultural heritage of the Bario Highlands – one of the last surviving traditionally farmed and forested highland watersheds in Sarawak and East Malaysia. Enjoy the delicious organic food cooked by the various longhouse communities of the Kelabit Highlands. There will be traditional games and dances by young and old. There are plenty of trekking trails to keep your adventure spirit high and cap off a great day by catching the awesomeness of the Milky Way if the timing is right.

Date : 30 July to 1 August
Venue : Kelabit Highlands
Organiser : Rurum Kelabit Sarawak, Kaum Ibu, and the Belia Bario
Contact : +6019 8060 710
Website : www.facebook.com/pages/bariofoodfestival

TUANKU JA`AFAR ROYAL GALLERY, SEREMBAN, NEGERI SEMBILAN

The Tuanku Ja’afar Royal Gallery is a special museum that celebrates the life and times of one of Malaysia’s prominent and well-loved royals, His Royal Highness (HRH) Tuanku Ja’afar ibni Tuanku Abdul Rahman. Visitors will have an intimate look at His Royal Highness’ personal and public life, from childhood to his years as a ruler, through well-curated exhibits. His ruling vision was to provide benefits to society through community work and the preservation of culture and arts. The gallery, situated near the serene Lake Gardens of Seremban, is less than 1 km from the city of Seremban.

Website: https://www.gdtjns.com/
Tel: +606 761 9102
Address: Galeri Diraja Tuanku Ja’afar, Jalan Taman Bunga, 70100 Seremban, Negeri Sembilan.

TRICK ART MUSEUM

Alive 3D Art Gallery in Port Dickson’s Dataran Segar features 50 drawings and paintings that will trick the eye! These 3D optical illusions, including several glow-in-the-dark paintings, are a perfect backdrop for “selfies” and “wefies.” Strike a pose to blend perfectly into the paintings and create a special visual effect that will boggle the mind and trick the eye!

Facebook: www.facebook.com/alive3dartgallery
Tel: +606 651 5400
Fax : +606 651 0141
Address: No. 38-40, Jalan Ds 2/1 Bandar Dataran Segar, 71010 Lukut,Port Dickson, Negeri Sembilan

UPSIDE DOWN HOUSE

Come and visit the unique Upside Down Gallery, situated in Port Dickson, Negeri Sembilan. This fun gallery exhibits a few amusing upside down scenes in show rooms, where guests can come and take memorable pictures. Everything inside, from furniture to household appliances, hover above your head, as the ceiling is actually the floor. Come for a taste of this architectural wonder that will perplex your mind. This architectural marvel is definitely a must see as there hasn’t been many of its kind. Come and make your way to the Upside Down Art Gallery now.

Website : [email protected]
Tel : +60 16 336 8751
Address : No. 13 A & 15 Jalan Coral Walk, Batu 9, Jalan Pantai Port Dickson, Negeri Sembilan (Near Ostrich Farm and Politeknik Port Dickson)

All information is correct at time of publication.
Visitors are advised to contact the event organiser for the latest updates.

Dining With Roses from Corelle

by Cleffairy // June 30, 2015 // 1 Comment

I wish I can tell you how magnificent my life is, but I’m sorry that I’ll have to disappoint you. I’m just a regular woman, struggling to be great but more often than not, I just ended up being ordinary. Professionally, I’m a writer, novelist, blogger and a family friendly tourism activist. But beneath all of those, I’m a wife, lover, mother, daughter, sister and a friend, albeit a not a very good one. I’m somewhat a people pleaser and I always try my best to make them feel happy whenever they are around me, but unfortunately for me, that does not always work. It upset me sometimes that people don’t appreciate what I do, but then again, I have come to learn to let things be, and stop pleasing people around me. I come to realize that you can’t please everyone and what matters most is how you see yourself and not how people around you see you.

I got married and had my son at a pretty young age. I was only about 19 years old then. For a moment, I decided to be a stay at home mother to take care of my son, but after a couple of years when my son started schooling, I decided that I’ve stayed at home enough and it’s time to take on the world, like I’ve always wanted to since I was a child.

As a result of my decision, my life is no longer like a few years back where I can relax daily. I used to have nothing to do at all every day, but life is so different now. My calender is always so full with social events and work. Yes it is hectic, but I’m not complaining. I wouldn’t trade it for anything else in the world. Not when my days are usually not exactly routine and my work consists of enjoying good food and going places.

Yes. My life is always busy, but I do get domesticated at times, though not as often as before. Balancing professional life and personal life can be quite a pain, but whenever I’m not too tired, I’ll try to give my all to my family, especially to my husband and son, whom I know missed the ‘stay at home mum’ me quite a lot. I used to just stay home and cook daily for my family. But these days, I only cook on occasions or upon request. Sounds awful? Don’t be so quick to judge. All of us have very tight schedule, and it suits us better to just eat out and enjoy the meal without having to cook or clean up afterwards.

A couple of weeks ago, I received a collection of kitchenware from Kitchen World, Corelle’s latest dinnerware collection, Rosabelle Dinnerware, but as I was busy traveling and going on media trips with my husband and son, I haven’t got the opportunity to actually use it to serve food.

Lovely isn’t it? These are part of the Rosabelle Dinnerware collection by Corelle. its name is inspired by French word, Rosa meaning Rose and Belle meaning beautiful. Corelle is a household name in the kitchenware industry worldwide and is definitely popular among Malaysian households. For those of you who are not in the scene, Corelle and Corningware are under the World Kitchen umbrella, an American kitchenware products maker and distributor. Corelle is their leading dishware while Corningware is their cookware line. Today, more than 140 different Corelle patterns are available in Malaysia, many specifically designed to meet the growing Asian taste and demands. As part of their 45th anniversary this year, Corelle celebrates its long lasting beauty and durability.

The rose patterns looks very lifelike due to its reflective pinkish petal.

If you look closely there is an orange coloured rose, based on the real-life flower, Apricot rose. Rosabelle prides itself on being break and chip resistant but I think what is surprising about Corelle’s dinner plates is that although it weighs so light, it is strong and durable. The secret to this I learnt is Vitrelle®, a remarkable three-layer sandwich of thermally laminated glass. This is how Corelle’s plates are made and what makes its plates long lasting and durable without it being heavy. Also, a result of this process, Corelle has the versatility of being suitable for reheating or even used in conventional, convection or microwave ovens. You can also check out that video here to understand more about the brand.

The design is really pretty and gives a feel of Victorian times. Among the pieces in the Rosabelle collection, I loved the teacup the most. It makes me feel like a princess from Victorian era whenever I use it.

I thought of cooking up a storm for my husband and son, but we haven’t been home much and we have been eating out and feasting on lavish food during our food reviews sessions that all we wanted was very basic and homey dish for dinner the very moment we got home last weekend. And so, to cut the long story short, I ended up cooking up only these, upon request by the boys.

Fried eggs drizzled with soya sauce.

Fried chicken ham slices

And last but not least, some longbeans cooked in spicy sambal belacan. All of the dishes were served with piping hot steamed white rice.

These dishes may seems ordinary and boring to you, and it only looks good and presentable only because I used the Rosabelle collection to serve it, but I should like to think that the food I cooked tasted fabulous as my boys polished everything off and by the time we finished our meals, not even a grain of rice was left on the plate.

Having witnessed how my boys devoured the humble homecook dishes with much more enthusiasm in comparison to when we are eating out makes me me feel a tad guilty. I used to cook a lot for them and somehow makes me miss such gratification of seeing them enjoy my cooking. I guess it’s time to start cooking at a more frequent rate, no? I may not be able to cook as often as I used to for them, but I guess I can start doing that again. I’m not much of a cook but at least now, with Rosabelle, they would at least look presentable and inviting upon serving. :p

I guess you can look forward to more homecook stuff from me from this moment onward, so keep reading and stay tune for more. I’ll be sharing some of my homecook recipes with all of you soon. You may follow me on instagram too if you wanna have a quick updates on my culinary adventure with Rosabelle by Corelle. 😉

If you are planning to get Rosabelle as a gift for yourselves of your loved ones, you can visit leading departmental stores like AEON to get one. It is available nationwide. For more information on this lovely dinnerware, LIKE this Facebook page here:
https://www.facebook.com/worldkitchenAP?fref=ts

Or alternatively, look up on the hashtag
#CorelleMalaysia #Rosabelle on social media to scout on infos on the products. 😉

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