31/01/2026

LYFE SATURDAY | JAN 31, 2026

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Let your tummy guide your travels F OR Malaysians, travel is not just about the sights, it is an epicurean journey. Food is the heart of every adventure, handcrafted artifacts. As you wander, you will do more than just glimpse the past, you will taste the flavours that have sustained and were enjoyed by locals for generations. o What to eat, from Vienna to Phu Quoc

and planning your next getaway often starts with one simple question: “What’s good to eat there?” With so many travel options at our fingertips, even the simplest cravings can spark the wanderlust within. Whether you are seeking comfort food and local favourites or exploring vibrant markets for hidden culinary treasures, the abundance of flavours within a destination can deeply enrich your travel experience and connect you with its culture. As we step into the new year, let us dive into some must-visit destinations where local cuisine is not just a meal, but an unforgettable part of your travel story. Get ready to savour the world one bite at a time. Vienna, Austria: Old world charm In Vienna, its charm goes beyond its rich history. This enchanting city invites travellers to slow down and savour culinary experiences at a leisurely pace. Just a short venture beyond the city, you will discover traditional heurigen – rustic wine taverns where winemakers serve delightful wines alongside simple, hearty dishes. Enjoy these flavours after a leisurely stroll through the surrounding vineyards, complete with scenic views. Back in the city, step into Vienna’s iconic coffeehouses where the inviting aroma of freshly brewed coffee fills the air. In cooler seasons, this ritual is especially comforting when paired with warm slices of apfelstrudel or rich sachertorte . For a more immersive experience, join a cheese-making workshop to learn the art of transforming milk into artisanal cheese, guided by experts who breathe life into Austria’s culinary traditions. Hangzhou, China: Refined flavours rooted in tradition Hangzhou is a city deeply rooted in tradition, where the local cuisine serves as a living reflection of its centuries-old history. To truly experience the city’s pulse, a stroll through Qing He Fang Street is essential. This vibrant thoroughfare is lined with ancient architecture and traditional storefronts, offering a sensory journey through local snacks, classic Chinese treats and intricate

Tea culture lies at the heart of Hangzhou. For a truly immersive experience, delve into the traditions of longjing (dragon well) tea. You can witness the meticulous process of how tea leaves are hand-picked, roasted and brewed to perfection. For a quintessential Hangzhou pairing, enjoy a fragrant cup alongside the city’s signature dish, longjing shrimp – a delicate combination that is particularly comforting during cooler months. For those seeking bolder, more robust flavours, the city’s culinary “greats” and light bites, such as beggar’s chicken, West Lake fish in vinegar gravy, braised bamboo shoots and congbao hui (scallion stalks wrapped in dough), do not disappoint. Seoul, South Korea: Bold flavours, everyday food rituals Seoul’s food scene masterfully blends deep-rooted tradition with simple, everyday moments, offering experiences as meaningful as they are accessible. For a hands-on activity, take part in a kimchi -making workshop. Under the guidance of professional chefs, you can try your hand at age-old techniques passed down through generations, transforming humble ingredients into Korea’s iconic staple. One of the city’s most cherished pastimes is enjoying ramen by the Han River. This classic Seoul experience takes place beneath the glow of illuminated bridges – simply grab instant ramen from a nearby convenience store, cook it at an outdoor station or have fried chicken delivered directly to your picnic mats. As the air turns crisp during the cooler months, soul-warming dishes take the spotlight. Comforting options like kalguksu (knife-cut noodles) and bindaetteok (crispy mung bean pancakes) are popular choices. For thrill-seekers, test your spice tolerance with dakbal (chicken feet) – a fiery, bold favourite that perfectly captures Seoul’s obsession for intense, flavour-packed heat. Hat Yai, Thailand: Street food playground It is an undeniable truth that Thailand is a sanctuary for food lovers, and Hat Yai stands out as a

Thailand is a sanctuary for food lovers and Hat Yai stands out as a vibrant crown jewel of the South.

that beckons curious travellers. Its cuisine reflects a deep connection to the ocean, and nowhere is this more evident than in Ham Ninh fishing town. In this rustic coastal village, life revolves around the tides. Arrive in the early morning to witness the spectacle of boats returning with the day’s catch, then head to a seaside eatery to feast on the town’s famed Ham Ninh crab, known for its exceptionally sweet and tender flesh. Beyond the shoreline, a visit to the island’s pepper plantations will offer a closer look at one of Vietnam’s most prized ingredient. Under the guidance of a local expert, you will learn how spice berries are grown, harvested and sun-dried. To bring the experience full-circle, join a hands-on cooking class to prepare classics, such as ban xeo (crispy pancakes) or succulent caramelised pork, elevated by the freshly ground island pepper and herbs. To truly capture the soul of Phu Quoc, do as the locals do, which is to take a seat on a tiny plastic stool at a no-frills roadside stall. There, you can slurp a bowl of freshly made bun quay , the island’s signature “stirring” noodle dish. It features springy, handmade rice noodles in a light, aromatic broth, topped with fresh seafood and herbs. For those seeking a refreshing bite, the herring salad is a must-try. It is a delicate balance of thinly sliced raw fish, grated coconut and a tangy dressing. This article is contributed by Scoot.

Vienna invites travellers to slow down and savour culinary experiences at a leisurely pace.

everything from savoury snacks to sweet treats directly from their traditional wooden boats. Finally, no visit is complete without a feast of Hat Yai–styled dim sum . A unique departure from the classic Hong Kong version, these bite-sized treasures feature inventive combinations and bold spices influenced by the distinct taste of Southern Thailand. Phu Quoc, Vietnam: Food journey through creative eyes Phu Quoc is celebrated not only for its powdery white-sand beaches, but also for a rich, distinctive food culture

vibrant crown jewel of the South. Known for its punchy, aromatic flavours, the city squares up as a culinary playground unlike any other. Mornings in Hat Yai begin early at Kim Yong Market, a bustling flea and street market with alleys packed with fresh fruit, nuts, clothing and electronics. To truly live like a local, spend your morning strolling through the stalls, sampling street snacks and soaking in the high energy atmosphere. A visit to the Khlong Hae Floating Market provides a colourful introduction to the local palate. Here, the river comes alive as vendors sell

Phu Quoc is celebrated for a rich, distinctive cuisine, encompassing signature dishes such as bun quay .

For a truly immersive experience in Hangzhou, delve into the traditions of longjing tea.

For a hands-on activity, take part in a kimchi -making workshop.