The Green Bazaar, Almaty Kazakhstan

On my way to Kazakhstan, my already excited mind was pretty much occupied with the anticipation of finally getting closer to this one particular place in Almaty. You can say that the Green Bazaar almost turned my cerebrum green before I even reached there. From all that I have researched before my trip and my indispensable habit of visiting markets in foreign countries, the Green Bazaar has quite some treasure in store for me. I found basically most of the food in Kazakh that I had my mind on can be found here. 

The Green Bazaar

The Green Bazaar opens at 9am and being the overkeen traveller I am, I was around the area by 8am. I took the opportunity to visit the Zenkov Cathedral a.k.a. Ascension Cathedral while waiting for the stalls to greet good morning. 

When the shutters rolled up, my eyes rolled wide with them -starting with honey stall!

The first stall that greeted me was a honey stall!

Meat stalls are hygienic and minimal odour detected. It is nowonder as I found out post-visit that it is one of the cleanest markets in whole of Central Asia!

Sheep head and brains not for the faint hearted

Salty cheese and milk candy store that I have been waiting to visit

With no signage and scarce English, determination was all I had to lead me to kumis (fermented horse milk) hidden behind the salted cheese piles. I noticed some white liquid a seller was stirring and asked what it was. To my relief, he could manage to tell me "horse milk".

Sour was the first taste that hit my taste buds. I thought all horse milk tasted sour until I found out that kumis is fermented- a nomadic way to preserve food. The consistency though, was lighter than cow milk. With that, fresh horse milk was added to my "to-eat" list.

I could not find any fresh horse milk but came across fermented camel's milk instead. How can I possibly skip something so unobtainable in South East Asia. I bought a cup for RM5 without a thought. As any fermented drink, it tasted sour as well but a little thicker with some chalky and fishy notes. 

Horse meat is one of the real reasons I came to Central Asia for. Hunting it in Green Bazaar was the right decision. Generally priced RM90 per kg, the horsemeat here are ready to eat. The seller was kind enough to let me sample some slices. I took home the salt flavoured one at last for my family to try. 

I found a seller who speaks English and her explaination gave more clarity about the flavours and price

Sampling horse meat for the first time

As Kazakh is land locked, fish is not exactly an easy supply. I presume most of the fish here are preserved for this reason. 

Preserved fruits and nuts

At the Green Bazaar also you can find decent local dishes. Rice, noodles and manti are all found here. 

Local dishes at the bazaar

Okhroshka...has made it to one of my favourites

Trying different dishes at the Green Bazaar

Noodle soup with horse meat

Manti dumplings- Kazakhs and other central asians must have known that other than the filling, the dumplings are just as good as how thin the skin is, like how the Chinese makes it.

Lagman is tomato based noodle dish

Having lagman at the upper level of Green Bazaar

THE 6TH WORLD TOP GOURMET AWARDS 2024: MALAYSIA’S CULINARY EXCELLENCE TO BOOST TOURISM FOR VISIT MALAYSIA YEAR 2026

World Top Gourmet Awards 2024 will take place at the Sunway Resort Hotel

The 6th World Top Gourmet Awards ceremony will take place on October 3, 2024, at the Sunway Resort Hotel. This prestigious event aims to honor the most outstanding culinary brands, restaurants, chefs, entrepreneurs, and food personalities. The highly anticipated occasion seeks to enhance Malaysia's reputation as a top tourist destination while showcasing the richness and diversity of Malaysian cuisine.

The World Gourmet Platform held a press conference today at the Sunway Resort Hotel, attended by over 180 participants, including YBhg. Datin Rafidah Idris, Senior Director of the Domestic and Events Division of Tourism Malaysia, and various representatives from the culinary industry and media.

In her speech, Dr. Peggy Chong, President of World Gourmet stated, “Service quality and innovation are indispensable parts of promoting the culinary and tourism industries. Thus, the World Gourmet Awards will take a step further this year by collaborating with the Malaysian Association of Skill Development Education (MASDEA) to introduce training courses aimed at improving the service and food quality of the local culinary industry.”

From left, Dr. Peggy Chong, President of World Gourmet Awards, Chef Bob Adnin, Ambassador of World Top Gourmet Awards 2024 and YBhg Datin Rafidah Idris, Senior Director of the Domestic and Events Division of Tourism Malaysia

YBhg. Datin Rafidah Idris also addressed the audience, stating, “Malaysia continues to see a surge in international tourists this year, with a target of welcoming 27.3 million international tourists and generating RM102.7 billion in tourism revenue.” Food and beverage services accounted for 14.9% of this tourism revenue from international tourists, totaling RM10.6 billion, making it one of the top three contributors to tourism receipts, just behind shopping and accommodation.

Senior Director Datin Rafidah Idris continued, “The F&B sector holds tremendous potential in enhancing the tourism industry. We will further leverage collaborations with stakeholders in this industry to achieve the goal of attracting 35.6 million foreign tourist arrivals with projected receipts of RM147.1 billion in the forthcoming Visit Malaysia Year 2026.”

In line with Visit Malaysia Year 2026, the World Gourmet Platform will also launch the “Explore Nation” app. This essential travel tool offers a range of features and functions to promote Malaysia’s tourism industry and enhance the travel experience for both domestic and international visitors.

During the press conference, Dr. Peggy Chong also announced the appointment of Chef Bob Adnin, president of the Professional Culinary Association (Malaysia), as the ambassador for the 2024 World Top Gourmet Awards. Since its inception, the World Top Gourmet Awards have bestowed over 400 awards, with an additional 100 awards expected to be given this year. The awards gala will host over
1,000 guests from both local and international communities.

With Chef Bob Adnin, Ambassador of World Top Gourmet Awards 2024

This year’s event will feature:

Awards Ceremony: Recognizing outstanding achievements in various categories, including top culinary brands, chefs, entrepreneurs, and personalities.

Cultural Performances: Vibrant traditional cultural performances reflecting Malaysia’s rich heritage, complementing the country’s culinary offerings.

Networking: Opportunities to meet, exchange ideas, and share knowledge with renowned chefs, culinary entrepreneurs, industry leaders, food bloggers, culinary experts, and celebrities.

The World Top Gourmet Awards ceremony will take place on Thursday, October 3, 2024, at 5 PM in the Grand Ballroom of the Sunway Resort Hotel.

See you thereChef Bob Adnin!

About the World Gourmet Platform

Established In 2017, the World Gourmet Awards is a platform aimed at stimulating economic growth by promoting the culinary industry, providing learning, networking, and business opportunities for culinary operators.

The World Top Gourmet Awards is an annual event dedicated to celebrating and recognizing excellence in the culinary and gastronomy sectors. The mission of the awards is to honor culinary industry excellence and innovation, providing a platform for chefs, restaurant entrepreneurs, and food enthusiasts to connect and celebrate culinary culture.

For more information about the 6th World Top Gourmet Awards, including ticket details and event schedules, please visit www.worldgourmet.biz or follow Facebook @WorldGourmet.

Saudi welcomes 8th site on UNESCO World Heritage List: Al-Faw Archeological Area

Did you know Saudi is now home to eight UNESCO World Heritage Sites? Here is something you didn’t know about the latest addition…

Saudi is a land with a long history, and a crucial crossroad between west and east bustling with important trad routes. It is a land that has been inhabited for millennia, a land of living wonders, and where ancient civilization many of which are lost today flourished. It is a land where the tales of the past still influence the present.

Discover Saudi’s newest World Heritage Site: 

Set in a strategic point of the ancient trade routes that used to crisscross the Heart of Arabia and abruptly abandoned around the 5 th century CE, the site of Al-Faw – which includes the vestige of the city of Qaryat al-Faw – is full of mysteries waiting to be uncovered. This historic site offers a captivating glimpse into the rich heritage and culture of Saudi, a land of discovery and endless possibilities. Almost 12,000 archeological remains have been found from prehistoric times to late pre-Islamic area testifying to the successive occupation of at least three different populations stretching more than 6,000 years.

Once a thriving trade hub at the crossroads of ancient caravan routes, Al-Faw's well-preserved ruins and water management system, tools and artifacts, intricate carvings, make it a must-visit destination for history enthusiasts and travelers alike.

The Destination: Al-Faw and its surroundings

The Al Faw archaeological site is situated approximately 650 km southwest of the capital Riyadh, about 100 km south of the Wadi al-Dawasir area, at the northwest of the Empty Quarter, near the Tuwaiq mountain range. The site presents a unique blend of natural beauty and historical significance. The journey through Al-Faw is not just a walk-through ruins, it’s an immersion into the vibrant life of an ancient trading hub. The landscapes enhance the experience, with breathtaking views that remain unchanged from days past. With each step, you connect with the deep historical roots of the region, discovering how Al-Faw played a pivotal role in shaping this part of the world.

Al-Faw is also located just next door to another UNESCO World Heritage Site, a place of exceptional natural beauty, Uruq Bani Ma'arid which was only added last year to the UNESCO list. This is a great opportunity to explore not one but two sites of extraordinary natural and cultural relevance for Saudi.

Al-Faw’s remote location was a key factor to its preservation but it is relatively easier for modern travelers to visit today – no need for camels or horses anymore – with regular scheduled flights available from Riyadh to Al Jawf, which is approximately a 2-hour drive from Al-Faw. Flyadeal and Flynas both offer flights on this route, providing a convenient and efficient way to reach this historic site. Depending on your preference, you can rent a car or take a taxi from Al Jawf to Al-Faw. Options for car rental include Al Wefaq Rent a Car or Lumirental.

Where to stay?

For an authentic experience, traditional guesthouses near Al-Faw, will offer traditional décor, local cuisine, and cultural activities.

But if a stop-over in Riyadh is necessary or recommended, the Saudi capital and its region also feature many historical, cultural and natural sites worth a detour. Diriyah, “The City of Earth”, is the founding place of the First Saudi State in 1727. At its heart sits the UNESCO World Heritage Site of At-Turaif, a cradle of Saudi culture. The modern Bujairi Terrace brings together restaurants from across a variety of global culinary traditions (including four Michelin-star restaurants as well as the examples of Saudi cuisine) to Diriyah. Don't miss the chance to experience authentic Saudi coffee, a cultural staple, at one of the many local cafes. And for those who crave adventure, the Edge of the World offers breathtaking views and hiking opportunities – just a short drive away from the capital.

Packages and accommodations in Riyadh are available to suit various preferences and budgets. For a luxurious stay, consider the Ritz-Carlton Riyadh, with rooms starting at $600 per night, or the Four Seasons Hotel Riyadh at Kingdom Center. The Radisson Blu Hotel offers more affordable options, with rates starting at $300 per night.

For a comprehensive travel experience in Saudi, consider packages available through Visit Saudi, which include guided tours, desert safaris, and cultural activities. For the more adventurer, the Tuwaiq Adventure Camp offers unique experiences like hiking, rock climbing, and stargazing, with accommodations starting at $150 per night.

Connectivity and eVisa

It has never been easier, smoother, and safer to visit Saudi – visa initiatives have been continuously developed, with the eVisa program now including 66 countries, reduction of the total price of the eVisa by 20%. Malaysians can obtain a free 96-hour Stopover Visa, or opt for an approved eVisa, valid for up to 90 days. Business and

Umrah/Hajj visas are also available to those coming to the country for work or religious purposes. To ensure seamless accessibility and connectivity, airline capacity has increased to over 700,000 seats across three main carriers – Air Asia X, Malaysia Airlines, and SAUDIA. Direct flights are available to cities such as Jeddah, Madinah, Taif, and Damam.

Get on a journey through time and explore the wonders of Al-Faw, where history and nature come together to create an unforgettable experience.

Kazakhstan - Landing in Almaty, Currency Exchange, SIM Card, YandexGo Ehailing and Accommodation

The view outside the plane window

Landing in Kazakhstan might sound inconvenient due to language difference but its easier than you think!

1. Prepare USD or Euros to buy Tenge when you reach. You can also change near the Green Bazaar. There are plenty of counters there. Cash is still predominantly used. Credit card is accepted in larger stores.

2. Getting a SIM card is a breeze at the airport.

3. Prior to the trip, download Yandex Go, Kazakh and Kyrgys version of Grab. Pay in cash.

Malls will be malls and they are quite similiar to the Malaysian ones with food court and a supermarket. Their version of Lotus's is Magnum.

#almaty #icecapmountains #kazakhstan #yandex #traveller #wanderlust #greenbazaar #lifestyleblogger #qazaqstan #centralasia #krygyzstan

Almaty Airport

Change Tenge currency when you reach

You can get a simcard at the airport so that you can hire ehailing - Yandex

There was only one choice at that time for 6000KZT

At the arrival exit of Almaty Airport

Waiting for Yandex at the ehailing area

In the Yandex transport on the way to the accomodation

Comfortable homes rented from Booking.com

Went to the nearest mall for some food

Food court on the first day

Mornings with the view of ice-capped mountains from the apartment

Cooking simple breakfast

Out and about to explore Almaty!

Plaza Premium Lounge Celebrates winning the “World’s Best Independent Airport Lounge” by Skytrax - 8 years in a row

Plaza Premium Lounge Celebrates winning the

“World’s Best Independent Airport Lounge” at World Airline Awards by Skytrax for the Eighth year in a row

• Plaza Premium Lounge has won the title of "World's Best Independent Airport Lounge" from 2016 to 2024

• Plaza Premium Lounge Rome strikes gold again, following its triumph from last year

• Plaza Premium Lounge in Dubai International Airport ranked 5th in the category

Plaza Premium Lounge, the world's first independent airport lounge brand and the largest global independent lounge network under Plaza Premium Group, was awarded the "World's Best Independent Airport Lounge" at the prestigious World Airline Awards 2024 by Skytrax today in London. 

This was the eighth consecutive time that the company received this title since 2016. Plaza Premium Lounge Rome at Leonardo da Vinci-Fiumicino Airport (FCO) at T3 Departures topped the list again, building on its triumph in 2023, while Plaza Premium Lounge in Dubai International Airport ranked 5th.

Travellers can savour a fine selection of food and

beverages while relaxing at the lounge in Rome

The lounge in Dubai offers experiences tailored to all kindsof travelers, including leisure, business, and
families

Mr. Song Hoi See, Founder and CEO of Plaza Premium Group said: "Receiving this prestigious award for eight consecutive years is an absolute honour. Twenty-six years ago, we introduced the world's first
independent airport lounge concept, and we have come a long way. Today, we operate in 80 international airports across 30 countries, with over 250 locations, and have expanded beyond just offering lounge service to providing a comprehensive 360-degree airport experience. Travel continues to change whether in the context of travel patterns, airport innovations, and passenger behaviour. We believe travel should be a pleasure and so whatever the journey, we aim to anticipate and evolve our offerings to build with the present and future passengers in mind.

We extend our heartfelt gratitude to Skytrax for this recognition, and also to our airport partners, business partners, as well as industry friends around the world who have supported us throughout the years. Of course, we owe everything to our teams for their unwavering commitment in providing excellent service to travelers every day. This award is a testament to their hard work and passion. ”

Edward Plaisted, CEO of Skytrax said: "We congratulate Plaza Premium Lounge on being named the
World's Best Independent Airport Lounge operator, and to win this for the eighth consecutive year is a
fabulous achievement. The highest ranked Plaza Premium Lounge in 2024 is at Rome Fiumicino Airport and as the world’s best known lounge provider - Plaza Premium Group management and entire team should be very proud of this very high recognition from customers."

PPG continues to build on its legacy of excellence and to expand its footprint while prioritising
sustainability, digitalisation, and people. The company continues to evolve and create value for travelers, holding true to its core mission of “making travel better”.

The "Proudly Local" experience was recently introduced at Plaza Premium Lounge in six inaugural locations, including the award-winning Rome lounge and the Dubai lounge, which is also one of the 

Top-
5 in the award category, as part of the "Your Destination Before Departure" campaign. The other locations include Kuala Lumpur, Jakarta, Nagoya, and Adelaide.

Song explained: “Travelers these days are increasingly driven by experiences, and we recognise the need to evolve along with them. With that in mind, Plaza Premium Lounge is now more than just a lounge; it transforms into an airport destination where passengers can eat, drink, work, and refresh before their flights, while immersed in the culture of that particular airport location.

Our wish is for travelers to find inspiration and establish deeper connections with a city through its food, art, and people. It demonstrates the 'culture' element of our brand promises, alongside comfort,
convenience, love, care, and value, we believe good hospitality will contribute to making the airport
journey a better part of flying.”