Malaysia, bathed by the tropical waters of the South China Sea and the Celebes Sea, features some of Asia's richest and best-preserved underwater environments. Due to this setting, the country is considered an excellent choice for tourists interested in international standard diving and snorkeling, while also having a strong focus on environmental preservation.
Several locations deserve mention for their unique characteristics:
Located in the state of Sabah, on the island of Borneo, Sipadan is globally recognized as one of the best diving spots. This marine sanctuary has restricted access and is highly protected, notable for its vertical walls that drop hundreds of meters into the blue depths. These walls host remarkable biodiversity, including green and hawksbill turtles, barracudas, large schools of jacks, and colorful corals. Strict control over daily permits ensures the maintenance of the ecosystem, offering certified divers an exclusive and intimate experience with nature.
Near Sipadan, Mabul is a destination suitable for both snorkeling and diving focused on macro photography, a technique used to capture details of smaller organisms. Its shallow reefs facilitate the observation of seahorses, octopuses, toadfish, and a surprising variety of small species, making every dive a detailed investigation of the marine environment. Furthermore, the island stands out by offering accommodations that prioritize sustainable practices and by being close to local communities.
Situated on the east coast of the Malay peninsula, opposite the state of Terengganu, Redang Island is part of a protected marine park composed of nine islands. This destination is associated with turquoise-blue waters, white sandy beaches, and reefs perfect for recreational diving and snorkeling. Redang is ideal for beginners or for those who wish to snorkel with good visibility and a large amount of marine life, such as soft and hard corals, tropical fish, and sea turtles.
Also located on the east coast, the Perhentian Islands are known for their relaxed atmosphere and abundance of marine life. It is possible to observe turtles and schools of fish snorkeling directly from the beach, while the dive sites feature well-preserved reefs and gentle currents. This destination attracts young travelers and backpackers looking for a genuine connection with nature, away from large crowds.
Masala Alu Sandwich is a popular and filling snack that can be prepared quickly. It is easy to make at home in just a few minutes, making it an ideal option for children's breakfast.
In many families, the question arises about what to cook for breakfast that is quick yet tastes excellent. Constantly eating paratha and poha loses its appeal, leading to a desire for something spicy and crunchy. If you want to make something tasty, filling, and fast, try Masala Alu Sandwich.
Although Masala Alu Sandwich is a common dish, it is loved by both children and adults. It can be eaten not only for breakfast but also in a child's lunchbox or during evening tea. Of particular value is that the renowned Chef Kunal Kapoor shared his simple recipe for this sandwich, which allows it to be made at home in just a few minutes.
According to the chef, this sandwich turns out golden and crispy on the outside, while the filling of ripe and soft potatoes makes it exceptionally delicious. If you have boiled potatoes and bread, this recipe can be made in just 10 minutes.
To begin, heat oil in a pan. Add dried red pepper, rajma seeds, cumin, and asafoetida and let them sizzle. Then add finely chopped onion, ginger, and green pepper and fry on high heat for about a minute. Curry leaves can be added optionally.
After this, add lightly mashed boiled potatoes to the pan. Next, stir in salt, turmeric, red pepper powder, finely chopped coriander, and chaat masala, mixing all ingredients thoroughly. After a few minutes of cooking, turn off the gas, and your spicy potato filling will be ready.
Now spread the green paste on one slice of bread and butter on the other. Distribute the potato filling on the slice with the paste and cover it with the second slice, ensuring the buttered side is on the outside. Grill the sandwich in a sandwich maker or on a pan on both sides until golden and crispy. Then cut the finished sandwich in half.
How to serve: Heat a little oil in a small pan and fry the sliced green pepper, sprinkling it with chaat masala. The hot Masala Alu Sandwich is served with these fried peppers, green paste, or tomato sauce.
Reasons to try this recipe: It cooks very quickly and is an excellent option for office lunch or a child's lunchbox.
The monsoon season brings a special charm to travel, as lakes, rivers, and green landscapes gain even more beauty. If you are planning a trip during this period and are looking for a memorable destination different from crowded ski resorts, the floating villages and islands of India can be an ideal choice. These places offer the opportunity to see natural beauty, enjoy a tranquil atmosphere, and experience local culture.
Below are some picturesque floating villages and islands in India that are worth exploring during the monsoons.
Kadammkudi Islands (Kerala)
The Kadammkudi Islands, located in the backwaters of Kerala, are a beautiful cluster of small villages. Their beauty is complemented by palm trees, rice fields, and quiet waterways. Here you can feel the simplicity of village life, observe the daily routine of fishermen, and stay in a guesthouse.
Floating villages of Loktak Lake (Manipur)
Loktak Lake in Manipur is the largest freshwater lake in Northeast India. It is known for its floating 'phumdis' (floating islands made of grass and vegetation) and the world's only floating national park. Local residents here depend on fishing and agriculture.
Villages on houseboats of Dal Lake (Kashmir)
The beautiful houseboats of Dal Lake are the calling card of Kashmir. Floating wooden houses, Shikara rides, and the floating market are of particular interest to tourists. During the monsoon season, the landscapes here become even more charming.
Munro Island (Kerala)
Located in the Kollam district of Kerala, Munro Island is situated at the confluence of Ashtamudi Lake and the Kallada River. Backwater cruises, lush greenery, and a serene atmosphere make it a special place for nature lovers.
Floating village of Pulicat Lake (Tamil Nadu)
Pulicat Lake, the second-largest lagoon in India, is known for its fishing community and migratory birds. This place looks especially picturesque during the monsoons, being near Chennai.
Majuli (Assam)
Majuli, located in the middle of the Brahmaputra River, is one of the largest inhabited river islands in the world. The natural beauty, traditional bamboo houses, and rich culture of Assam provide tourists with unforgettable experiences.
Chilika Lake floating village (Odisha)
Chilika Lake, the largest brackish water lake in India, is famous for its floating villages, small islands, and vast wetlands. The view becomes extremely attractive during the monsoons, and this place is particularly favored by nature and bird lovers.
As Wadi Uruwaiya has been designated a UNESCO World Heritage site, nature lovers and hikers are eagerly anticipating the resumption of visits to explore this canyon in greater detail. After several years of being closed to the public, access to the wadi reopened in January of this year through controlled group tours.
Asila Abdullah Al Mualla, Director General of the Fujairah Environmental Protection Agency, noted that the iconic waterfall and its surrounding freshwater pools are among the most memorable features of Wadi Uruwaiya. This high-ranking official presented visitors with a range of must-see locations in the area.
She personally highlighted the waterfall and adjacent freshwater pools as the main attraction, especially recommending visiting them early in the morning. Al Mualla emphasized that the true beauty of the area extends far beyond the waterfall, urging guests to take time to explore the spring streams, deep mountain canyons, impressive rock formations, and natural viewpoints in the Hajar Mountains.
Wadi Uruwaiya represents a living cultural landscape. Archaeological surveys have uncovered about 70 sites within the protected zone, including traces of ancient settlements, burials, and rock inscriptions. During permitted and organized tours, these elements help visitors understand the age-old connection between people, water, and mountains. Tours are conducted only during the hiking season, from the beginning until mid-October, and visitors must register to participate in an organized tour offered by Fujairah Holidays; packages start from 300 dirhams per person.
Asila Al Mualla was most surprised by numerous studies conducted in the area, where a vast amount of life was discovered hidden within the seemingly harsh landscape. Scientific work has documented approximately 1099 species, including 216 plant species. Researchers also identified 55 invertebrate species that are new to science. The Arabian tahr was spotted in the Wadi Uruwaiya National Park in Fujairah, United Arab Emirates.
Other remarkable discoveries were also noted. In the UAE, thanks to research related to this area, a dragonfly previously considered extinct has been recorded. Furthermore, researchers documented local species of wadi fish that use their specialized bodies to climb sections of the main waterfall. Al Mualla noted that such observations demonstrate the amazing ability of wildlife to adapt to the complex conditions of Wadi Uruwaiya.
It is stressed that continuous research and community involvement remain vital. She explained that nature conservation is not limited to the physical protection of the site but requires ongoing research, long-term monitoring, and human engagement. This serves as a reminder that even the most fragile ecosystems can thrive if they are properly understood, respected, and protected.
