New year, new home-city secrets
With the Lunar New Year fast approaching, we thought there’d be no better way to celebrate than catching up with two more of our flight attendants to get an insider’s guide to two of our favorite Asian destinations.We spoke to Shanghai resident Chen Linna, from China Eastern, and Bali local Putu Dianti Purnami, from Garuda Airlines, who told us about the things they love from where they live, and shared some exclusive top tips and secrets along the way.
Three words that spring to mind when you think of home
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Shanghai
Chen: Modern, vibrant, and diversified. When you visit Shanghai, you’re instantly overwhelmed by the hustle and bustle of a thriving city: its colors, people, futuristic skyscrapers and indigenous Shikumen houses.
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Bali
Putu: Peace, wonderful, and holiday. Known as the Island of the Gods, Bali is synonymous with sacred ceremony and is renowned for its natural beauty and friendly environment. It’s got something for everyone seeking a unique holiday experience.
Favorite place to eat
Chen: Diners at Yi Long Court can enjoy Michelin-starred Executive Chinese Chef Tang Chi Keung’s exquisite Cantonese dishes and modern adaptations of classic Chinese dishes. Yi Long Court’s signature dishes were awarded two Michelin stars by The Michelin Guide Shanghai 2017.
Putu: The Merah Putih Restaurant is famous for its delicious Indonesian cuisine. My favorite dish is ‘lawar bebek’ (a mix of vegetables, coconut, herbs and spices) with crispy fried duck. You’ll regret it if you only order the small portion!
Must-eat local delicacy
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Street vendor selling Shanghai dumplings
Chen: You have to try a Shanghai dumpling.
Putu: Sate Lilit, which is authentic Balinese fish satay with mixed herbs. It’s offered onboard as one of Garuda Indonesia’s in-flight dishes.
An experience that would make a visitor feel like a local
Chen: The Shanghai Marathon is a great experience. I’d also recommend taking a tour of the traditional local Shikumen houses.
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A traditional Balinese cleaning ritual
Putu: You must explore the culture of the local community. People in Bali are so open and will be happy to share with you their knowledge on how to cook local food, dance, and even play the island’s traditional musical instruments. I’d recommend taking part in a traditional Balinese cleansing ritual, too – it will be an unforgettable experience.
A great daytrip
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Wuzen’s Grand Canal
Chen: Wuzhen is just a few hours’ drive from Shanghai. Built over 1,300 years ago, here you can experience the beauty of an ancient water town on the banks of the Grand Canal.
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Rice fields near Ubud
Putu: When visiting Bali, take a trip to the town of Ubud and enjoy its natural serenity, surrounded by an expanse of forest and rice fields.