Travel – Page 3 – dixonthum

Looking for the best places to eat in Kuala Lumpur city centre? Whether you’re a hotel guest, a local foodie, or just exploring dining options near Jalan Sultan Ismail, here’s your answer: Concorde Hotel Kuala Lumpur. This iconic hotel is home to 4 unique dining spots under one roof, offering everything from buffet feasts and authentic Japanese meals to handmade dim sum and live music lounges. I recently explored all four, and trust me — each one has its own charm and flavour worth experiencing.

Here’s your ultimate guide to the top 4 restaurants inside Concorde Hotel KL.

1. Melting Pot Café – Buffet Dining in Kuala Lumpur
If you’re craving a buffet restaurant in KL, Melting Pot Café is the place to be. Famous for its generous spread of international and local cuisine, this all-day dining spot is perfect for families, couples, and group gatherings.

Guests can enjoy the relaxing ambiance with live band performances by Bergema 5 every evening.

📌 Buffet Prices at Melting Pot Café:

Weekend High Tea (Sat & Sun): RM108 nett per pax
Buffet Dinner (Fri & Sat): RM168 nett per pax
Kids (6–11 years old): 50% off
Room Guests: 20% off for up to 2 pax per room

📍 Located at the lobby level of Concorde Hotel KL

2. Kazuma Japanese Restaurant – Authentic Japanese Food in KL
Searching for authentic Japanese food in Kuala Lumpur? Head to Kazuma Japanese Restaurant, located on Level 1 of Wisma Concorde, right above Hard Rock Café. This cozy eatery offers a peaceful setting for couples and small groups, serving fresh and flavourful dishes at affordable prices.

Highlights include their weekend special Salmon Fish Head Set, starting from just RM45.

📌 Kazuma Menu Price Range: RM25 – RM80 nett
🕒 Opening Hours:
Daily (including public holidays)
Lunch: 11:30am – 3:00pm
Dinner: 6:00pm – 10:00pm

📍 Located on Level 1 Wisma Concorde (above Hard Rock Café)

3. Xin Cuisine – Popular Non-Halal Chinese Restaurant in KL
Xin Cuisine is one of the rare hotel restaurants in KL that still serves non-halal Chinese food. Renowned for its handmade dim sum and premium steamboat, it’s a must-visit for fans of traditional Chinese flavours. They also provide banquet venue for traditional Chinese weddings.

Expect a full house on weekends – no reservations are allowed, so it’s best to come early. Everything here, from siew mai and har gow to roasted duck and char siew, is handmade by skilled chefs.

🥢 Must-try items:

Dim sum: dumplings, bao, siew mai
Steamboat: handmade ingredients, fresh seafood
Roasted meats: siew yuk, char siew, roasted duck
Hot dishes: rice, noodles, and more

📍 Located within Concorde Hotel Kuala Lumpur

4. Xroads Xpress – Popular Live Music Lounge in KL
For those looking for live music bars in Kuala Lumpur, Xroads Xpress (pronounced as ‘Crossroads Express’) at Concorde Hotel KL is a hidden gem. With regular performances by RS Duo, Beat Culture, and True Colours, it’s the ideal place to unwind with drinks and food in the heart of KL. Regulars come here to dance and hang out with each other!

Perfect for your Friday night hangout or a casual weekend chill session.

🕒 Live Music Showtimes:

Mon – Sat: 5:30pm – 1:00am
Sun: 8:45pm – 11:30pm

🍸 Enjoy both local and international drinks, with snacks and bar bites available.

BONUS: 5. Spices Restaurant
Spices Restaurant is a hidden gem within Concorde Hotel KL, exclusively open for Premier Room (and above) guests. Serving a breakfast buffet from 6:30am to 10am, it offers both American and local favourites, like pancakes and pastries to nasi lemak and porridge, in a cosy, private setting. Service here is top-notch, and if you visit, don’t miss their special mixed fruit juices — refreshing blends like apple-celery or orange-carrot are a great way to start your day!

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Here’s why you should choose Concorde Hotel Kuala Lumpur for dining
✔️ Centrally located on Jalan Sultan Ismail
✔️ Walking distance to KL Tower, KLCC and Bukit Nanas Monorail
✔️ Ideal for hotel guests and walk-in diners
✔️ 4 distinct dining experiences in one location

Whether you’re planning a foodie staycation (like I did over two nights), a business lunch, or a night out in KL, the restaurants at Concorde Hotel Kuala Lumpur offer something to satisfy every craving.

Travel

Top Hotel Picks in Phuket: Best Western Patong and Oceanfront Resort Review

April 13, 2025 dixonthum

Planning a beach getaway to Phuket soon? I recently had the chance to stay at two very different—but equally awesome—hotels that I think you’ll want to consider. Whether you’re here for beach vibes, convenience, or comfort, these two hotels deliver in their own way. Here’s my honest take based on my personal experience.

1. Best Western Patong Beach Resort
📍190 ถนน ผังเมืองสายกอ Pa Tong, Kathu District, Phuket 83150, Thailand

If you’re looking for a stay right in the heart of Patong without breaking the bank, this hotel is a gem. I stayed here for 2 nights, and it was super convenient for exploring the lively streets, local food spots, and of course, Patong Beach.

Room Facilities & Amenities
Clean, modern rooms with free Wi-Fi, a comfy bed, mini fridge, in-room safe, flat-screen TV, and air conditioning (a must in Phuket). The bathroom was spacious with a powerful hot shower. Other facilities include a rooftop swimming pool and jacuzzi with a bar, a fitness centre and an internet corner.

Breakfast:
Buffet-style with both Western and Thai options—nothing fancy but enough to fill you up before heading out.

Location & Accessibility:
Located just a short 10-minute walk to Patong Beach and Jungceylon Mall. Lots of restaurants and 7-Eleven stores nearby. Perfect for first-timers in Phuket.

Website: www.bestwesternpatongbeach.com
FB: https://www.facebook.com/BWPatongBeach
IG: https://www.instagram.com/bestwesternpatongbeach/

2. Oceanfront Beach Resort and Spa
📍320 2 Phrabaramee Rd, Pa Tong, Kathu District, Phuket 83150, Thailand

For a more relaxing and scenic vibe, I switched over to Oceanfront Beach Resort, a 5-star hotel in Kalim. This place is all about sea views and tranquility.

Room Facilities & Amenities:
Spacious rooms with stunning sea-facing balconies. My room had a large bathtub, coffee machine, Smart TV, and a dreamy king-size bed. Definitely more upscale and great for couples or solo unwinders. Other facilities include an outdoor swimming pool & jacuzzi, fitness centre, snooker & pool room, squash court, restaurants, and more.

Breakfast:
This is one of my favourite breakfast experience. They offer a really good spread! Fresh fruits, pastries, eggs cooked to order, Thai dishes, and barista-made coffee & beverages.

Location & Accessibility:
A bit more secluded, about 10 minutes by tuk-tuk from Patong. If you want serenity away from the crowd, this is it. Also it’s 2-minute walking distance to the nearest 7-Eleven store.

Website: www.oceanfrontphuket.com
FB: https://www.facebook.com/oceanfrontphuket

Both hotels gave me a different side of Phuket—one vibrant, one peaceful—and I honestly loved both. Whether you’re in the mood to party or just relax by the sea, you won’t go wrong with either of these.

Let me know which one suits your travel style better!

Food & Drink, Travel

Where to Eat in Phuket: Tunk-ka Cafe at Khao Rang Hill for Sunset Views & Authentic Thai Food

April 9, 2025 dixonthum

If you’re looking for a dining spot in Phuket that combines great food, fresh air, and a breathtaking view, I recommend checking out Tunk-ka Cafe. Located near the top of Khao Rang Hill (also known as Rang Hill or Khao Rang Health Park), this cosy restaurant offers a relaxed, natural setting surrounded by trees and greenery. It’s the kind of place where you can truly unwind while enjoying authentic Thai cuisine with family or friends.

I had the pleasure of dining here during my recent trip and honestly, it was one of the unique dining experiences in my trip to Phuket. The weather was breezy up on the hill, and the scenery—especially during sunset—was absolutely stunning.

The food? Let’s just say, I’m still thinking about it.

We ordered several dishes to share, and each one impressed. My personal favourites were the sweet and sour curry with shrimps and Phuket pineapple, which had just the right balance of tanginess and heat, and the crab meat stir-fried with curry powder—so rich, flavourful, and generous with the crab meat! Another standout was the crab meat and herbs in coconut milk curry—creamy, aromatic, and perfect with steamed rice. We also had the stir-fried pak liang with egg, a southern Thai vegetable dish that was simple yet delicious.

From what I gathered, seafood and crab dishes are a popular choice here, and it’s easy to see why—they’re fresh, well-prepared, and packed with flavour. Get the full menu here.

What I really liked about Tunk-ka Cafe is how it feels so peaceful, almost like a hidden retreat above the city. Whether you’re planning a small group gathering, a casual family dinner, or even a quiet meal with your partner, this place hits the sweet spot for ambience and taste.

So if you’re in Phuket and looking for a place with great food, amazing views, and a relaxing vibe, give Tunk-ka Cafe a try. Trust me—you’ll want to come back.

📍Tunk-ka Cafe
Khosimbi Road Tambon Wichit, Mueang Phuket District, Phuket 83000, Thailand
Operating hours: 11:15AM – 9PM (weekday), 11AM -10PM (weekend)
FB: https://www.facebook.com/TunkkaCafePhuket0808211500/
IG: https://www.instagram.com/tunkka.cafephuket

My Personal

5 Reasons You Should Visit Phuket Old Town

April 8, 2025 dixonthum

When people talk about Phuket, it’s usually about the beaches, island hopping, or partying in Patong. But there’s a whole different vibe waiting for you just a short drive inland—Phuket Old Town. It’s colourful, full of character, and packed with hidden gems you won’t want to miss. If you’re wondering what to do in Phuket beyond the beach, this charming heritage town is your answer.

Here’s why it should be on your must-visit list:

1. Bars and Cafes with Unique Vibes
Phuket Old Town is a paradise for cafe hoppers and cocktail lovers. Imagine sipping Thai cold brew in a pastel-themed cafe, or enjoying a signature cocktail in a vintage bar with moody lighting. Many of these spots are set inside beautifully restored colonial buildings, giving you that old-meets-new charm. Whether you’re into minimalist coffee bars or artsy lounges, the cafe and bar scene here is one of the best in Phuket.

2. Insta-Worthy Streets and Hidden Corners
This place is a dream for content creators. With colourful shophouses, quirky murals, lantern-lined streets, and old wooden doors, Phuket Old Town is full of photo spots that’ll light up your Instagram feed. Stroll along Soi Romanee or Thalang Road and you’ll find yourself snapping pics every few steps. Trust me, your phone’s storage will fill up fast.

3. The Iconic Sunday Night Market (Lard Yai)
If you’re in town on a Sunday, don’t miss the Phuket Sunday Night Market. Taking over Thalang Road every week, it’s buzzing with food stalls, handmade crafts, live music, and friendly vibes. It’s one of the best places to try local street food, shop for souvenirs, or just soak up the energy of the town.

4. Michelin-Worthy Street Food – A Pong Mae Sunee
Speaking of food, one of the must-try street eats in Phuket is A Pong Mae Sunee. This humble roadside stall has earned a spot in the Michelin Guide for its crispy coconut pancakes, known as a-pong. One bite in, and I instantly got why it made it into the Michelin Guide. Light, fragrant, and totally addictive, it’s the kind of snack you’ll want to grab a few of while exploring the streets.

5. Rich Culture and Heritage
Phuket Old Town isn’t just about pretty buildings—it’s full of history and culture too. Visit the Shui Wei Sheng Niang Shrine, dedicated to a Chinese sea goddess, or learn about Peranakan culture, which has shaped the architecture, food, and fashion of this area. From colourful tiles to traditional clothing shops and family-run museums, there’s a strong sense of heritage in every corner.

If you’re looking for something a little different on your Phuket trip—think less beach towel, more old-town stroll—then Phuket Old Town is where it’s at. Come for the food, stay for the vibes, and leave with a camera roll full of memories.

Travel

We Did Not Go for the Flying Hanuman Zipline but Went for the Canopy Jungle Walk Instead. Here’s Why!

April 7, 2025April 8, 2025 dixonthum

During my recent trip to Phuket, I decided to try something a little different — and wow, I’m glad I did! Instead of just lounging by the beach, I went deep into the jungle for an adventure at Flying Hanuman Phuket. It’s about a 25-minute car ride from Phuket Town, tucked away in Kathu, and honestly, the journey itself already felt like an escape from the usual tourist spots.

This trip, we went for the canopy jungle walk, and it was amazing. The package comes with free 15 photo shots. The walkway is around 40 meters high and stretches over 200 meters, suspended right above the trees. It felt a bit scary at first, but once I got going, I couldn’t stop admiring the incredible view from the Thailand’s longest cable skywalk. The jungle below, the fresh air, and the sound of birds made it feel so peaceful — even though I was way up in the air! The whole walk took us about 30 minutes only.

What makes Flying Hanuman stand out is how it blends nature with adrenaline. You’ve probably seen photos or clips of their flying fox (zipline) — and yes, I tried that too! Soaring through the trees with the wind rushing past your face? Total adrenaline rush. I now understand why celebrities like Kim Kardashian and Usain Bolt have come here — it’s that good. Perhaps next time, I shall come here to challenge the Flying Hanuman.

@dixonthum
Tried something totally different in Phuket — a jungle adventure at Flying Hanuman! 🌿 Just a short 25-min ride from Phuket Town, this place offers serious thrills with activities like the flying fox zipline and a canopy walk that’s 40m above ground and stretches 200m long! 🌉 This time, we went for the canopy jungle walk. The view from the hanging bridge? Absolutely stunning 😍. Safety was a top priority — we were all suited up with helmets and harnesses, and the team made sure everything was secure. Make sure to wear activewear and sports shoes. Maybe next time, I’ll go for the actual Flying Hanuman. Even celebs like Kim Kardashian and Usain Bolt have been here! A must-try for anyone craving adventure in Phuket! 💯🌴 @Tourism Authority of Thailand @FLYING_HANUMAN #tatkl #amazingthailand #amazingnewchapters #yourstoriesneverend #FlyingHanuman #PhuketZipline #AdventureTime
♬ girls like me don’t cry (Sped Up) – thuy

Safety-wise, I felt completely at ease. Before we started, the crew suited us up with helmets and full harnesses, and they were super professional about checking everything. If you’re planning to go, make sure you wear the right clothes — t-shirt, shorts or a tracksuit, and sports shoes are perfect because you’ll be climbing, walking, and flying all over the place.

After all that action, we grabbed some food at the restaurant onsite — simple, tasty stuff that hit the spot after all the activity. They also have a cute souvenir shop, so I picked up a few small things to remember the day.

All in all, Flying Hanuman was such a fun and unique experience. Whether you’re into nature, adventure, or just want to try something new in Phuket, I’d highly recommend giving this a go. Check out their website for the full list of packages they offer.