daily prompt, holidays, memories

The Best Advice for Exploring a New City

What’s the best way to explore a new city?

Last summer, me and my family went on holiday to Malaysia. I already wrote some bits and pieces about it in my summer holiday posts, but I totally forgot to talk about this piece of advice from a taxi driver.

He said: “Use the public transport to get to know Malaysia better. You won’t know us, the local people, until you communicate with us. Malaysians are good people.”

This advice is one of the best memories I will always remember from Malaysia.

And I totally agree with the taxi driver. 

Yes, the best way to explore a city is to use public transport, to communicate with local people, to taste their food, to listen to their stories, and, of course, to learn a little of their language. 

Did we follow that advice?

To some extend, we did.

So, in case you’re thinking to explore a new city on your next holiday, remember that piece of advice from the Malaysian taxi driver.

With summer-holiday-thoughts,

Nahla

A Sound, a Lizard, and a Big Laugh

Thanks, Malaysia

Just writing

Welcome August 2026

Today, I can welcome August with a big smile.

First, because I finally finished The Sea Keeper’s Daughters, and it turned out to be a unique story.

Second, because I have a plan, and a promise, to read a list of more books this month.

It’s a bit embarrassing to gather the harvest of only one book at the end of the month. 

But of course, July understands my situation: the holiday, the jet lag, the cold, and the house chores that never end.

And August looks, so far, supportive and considerate. 

Third, because the weather is nice so far.

It’s been rainy, a bit windy over the last few days, but that’s better. Actually, that’s a blessing, after the heat wave that lasted until the end of July.

Fourth, because I finally made my coconut frozen-yogurt ice cream with four simple ingredients: coconut milk, yogurt, shredded coconut, and honey. And, it turns out like something from another world. 

There are more reasons to welcome August, but that’s enough for now.

With welcome-August thought,

Nahla

daily prompt

Apology From The Sleeping Beauty

What is the best excuse you have heard lately?

“Sorry, but I’ve no energy to even open my eyes.

It’s my catnap time.

And the heat is getting the most of me.

I’m not in the mood to play anytime soon.

Maybe later at night.

But you won’t find me in this spot.

I’ll wander around to look for some yummy food.

Wish me luck.”

The cat whispered and meowed. 

Isn’t that the best excuse from such a cute cat?”

Me and my daughter tried to wake this sleeping beauty up, but she didn’t want to.

But we understand.

We apologised too for we can’t wander and play around at night.

Perhaps we’ll meet again.

But thanks for making a good memory. 

With apology thoughts,

Nahla