Wanderlust Wonders: Vivian’s Journey Abroad (Week 11)
Lion City Legends- Week 3
Welcome to a week of tantalizing scents of spices and delicate fragrances of flowers—aromas like no other. We gained a deeper appreciation for Asian culture through culinary and botanical adventures.
Highlight #1: Cooking Class
In our cooking class, held in a family-run business home, we delved into the vibrant flavors of Southeast Asia by crafting a traditional dish known as nonya laksa. From meticulously selecting the freshest vegetable leaves to hand-pounding aromatic spices into a fragrant liquid, every step was an immersive journey into culinary craftsmanship. The culmination of our efforts came with the artful plating of the dish, arranging toppings like prawns, cucumbers, bean sprouts, etc. to create a visually stunning and appetizing meal. Beyond the culinary delights, this experience allowed us to learn about Asian culture and history intertwined with food, making it a truly unique experience.
Highlight #2: Singapore Botanic Gardens
Immersing ourselves in the tranquil beauty of the Singapore Botanic Gardens, we took a private tour through the Orchid Garden and the Ginger Garden. Surrounded by an array of breathtaking blooms, we found serenity amid nature’s splendor and were greeted by cool and unexpected sightings of animals, including a rooster casually strolling about. Our knowledgeable tour guide led us through the gardens, sharing fascinating tidbits of information while cracking jokes along the trail. Among the highlights were the enchanting “dancing lady orchids”, whose delicate petals resemble dancers in flowing gowns. I enjoyed touring the VIP and celebrity flower section, where orchids bore the names of influential figures. One such example is the Dendrobium Orchid, named after Margaret Thatcher, former Prime Minister of the United Kingdom, reflecting her stubborn and iron-like persona with its resolute, screwdriver-like shape. Witnessing this is enthralling as it infused our botanical exploration with humor and intrigue.
This week’s fusion of culinary creativity and botanical beauty, where the air was filled with aromas of exotic sizzling spices and the sweet perfume of blossoming petals wafting through the gardens, is one-of-a-kind. From the hands-on creation of a traditional dish to the exploration of beautiful gardens, each moment has left a lasting impression on our hearts, minds,… and noses! As we carry these memories along, may they continue to inspire us to embrace new adventures, savor the flavors of life, and find solace in the beauty that surrounds us.
Vivian Kuang ’25
BSBA in Management and Organizations Freeman College of Management