[TRAVEL] Fukuoka Christmas Market – Largest in Japan!

Christmas has always been an exciting season for me, and I am so glad to have experienced this jolly season in Fukuoka – the home to one of the biggest Christmas markets in Japan. Fukuoka Christmas Market starts as early as during mid-November, so it is highly recommended to plan your trip ahead for the best autumn foliage viewing time while enjoying the beautiful Christmas illuminations at night. 

Fukuoka Christmas Markets spread across multiple locations, in which each of them turns into a miniature Christmas town, beautifully adorned with colorful light displays, trees and ornaments. There are plenty of stalls selling the festive trinkets, piping hot drinks and celebratory food for the occasion. 

Throughout my week-long stay in Fukuoka, I have aimed to visit one Christmas market per night. So let’s check out the top 4 Fukuoka Christmas Markets I have been thus far:

1. JR Hakata Station Square (Hakata)

"Hikari no Machi" illumination, which means "City of Lights", takes place in front of Hakata Station in Fukuoka, Japan. With the market opens from late afternoon till 11pm every day, there are so many food to explore, live performances to enjoy and lovely photo spots to capture the beauty of this festive season. 

You can easily spot the huge Christmas tree standing right in front of the JR Hakata station.

And here I have discover the beauty amidst the sea of people.

❤ ❤ ❤

2. Fukuoka City Hall / Tenjin Central Park (Tenjin)

Head to Tenjin for an even bigger Christmas illumination - right at the square to the west of Fukuoka City Hall. The Tenjin Christmas Market welcomes visitor with an ultra grand archway, adorned with myriad of colorful lights. And I am so happy to be surrounded by a charming array of wooden huts and a welcoming committee of 100 Santa Clauses!

Tenjin Christmas Market's special limited edition mug - So tempted to bring one home!

Don't miss out the traditional Christmas market foods such as grilled sausages, hot chestnuts and warm chocolates!

❤ ❤ ❤

3. Nakasu Hikari no Advent (Nakasu)

My favourite throughout the trip goes to Nakasu Christmas Market, where the blue and gold LED lights illuminate the vibrant city starting from the Fukuhaku Deai Bridge. The light reflection on the water definitely enhances the beauty of the scenery. 

Look at all the Santa Clauses! So impressive.

Happy to try the first mulled wine in a Christmas market!

❤ ❤ ❤

4. Seaside Momochi Ice Skating Park (Fukuoka Tower)

The Fukuoka Tower Christmas Illumination is something I have been looking forward to, during my research for the trip. It is indeed a magical experience. Standing at 108 metres, the tower is completely wrapped in stunning festive lights, making it look like a gigantic Christmas tree from far. 

For the first time, the Seaside Momochi Ice Skating Park, an outdoor ice skating rink is set up right in the plaza in front of Fukuoka Tower. It adds a whole new level of charm to the already festive Momochihama area. 

  

The lights on the town make everything look so mystical and dreamy!

❤ ❤ ❤

That's all I have for the Christmas Markets in Fukuoka. Wish I could have more time spent here to check out the rest of the Christmas markets in town. Will definitely be back for the next Autumn in Fukuoka x. 

Thank you Fukuoka;

I am grateful for the cherished memories created here. ❤

xoxo,

FiSh

'Christmas 2024

Dear Diary | September 2025 Edition

S E P T E M B E R ❤

Hello, September! It's another month that flew past so quickly that I haven't managed to take a pause and review how the month has been treating me.... While it seems to be filled with uncertainties and late night anxieties, it also signifies growth and development in life!

Standard Bread from Korea to Singapore!

06.09.2025 | The first weekend of September was well spent in Sentosa Island, where I visited the first ever Seoul's popular Standard Bread outlet in Singapore. We tried the signature Salted Butter Bread - sweet, salty and buttery in one bite - extremely satisfying! Perfectly paired with the Signature Cream Mocha which was rich in espresso and cocoa without being overly cloying. Highly recommended! 

Oceanarium @ Resorts World Sentosa

06.09.2025 | Then it was followed by a visit to the newly revamped Oceanarium (formerly the S.E.A. Aquarium which I visited once when I was 16!), a conservation-focused institute featuring 22 immersive zones showcasing marine life from prehistoric oceans to today. There were plenty of massive moon jelly habitat, interactive displays, and fun and learning throughout the session.

Chinatown's Mid-Autumn Festival 

13.09.2025 | The mid-autumn festival was around the corner, and we headed to Chinatown for the charming bunny-themed SG60 decorations, celebrating the nation's 60th birthday. The most remarkable piece was probably the 8m-tall SG60 centerpiece flanked by rabbits, mooncakes, and vibrant orchids. This visual spectacle represented Singapore's journey over the decades. So meaningful! 

Hand Building Pottery Class @ Am I Addicted Pottery Studio

20.09.2025 | The third weekend of the month was fun-filled as we attended a two-hour hand building pottery class to make our very own European-style vintage pottery ware. The experience was pretty cool, and thank you for the invite! ❤

Self Pampering Time @ Number76

27.09.2025 | Can't believe it's been 9 months since my last visit to my favourite saloon, Number76. Lovin' the experience here all the years.

Happy Mid-Autumn Festival! ❤

30.09.2025 | With mid-autumn festival around the corner, I was excited to receive such a huge amount of mooncake gifts flown from Hong Kong! Thank you for pampering me to the max! 

Signjing off,

FISh

30.09.2025

Step Out in Style: The Ultimate Guide to Homecoming Heels

Homecoming is that magical time of year—when the halls buzz with school pride, the dance floor becomes the centerpiece, and every outfit feels like a statement. And what better way to elevate your look than with the perfect pair of homecoming heels?

Whether you're going classic glam, subtle sparkle, or bold and colorful, the right heel can make your ensemble unforgettable. If you’re shopping for heels that blend style, comfort, and timeless appeal, Rosatina has curated a beautiful collection—take a look at their Homecoming Heels collection. 

What Makes a Great Homecoming Heel 

Before you click “add to cart,” there are a few key things to consider so your shoes look amazing and feel good through every photo, slow dance, and hallway run. 

1. Heel Height & Stability

High enough to turn heads, low enough to dance. Chunkier heels or block-heeled sandals often provide better stability. If you’re not used to stilettos, they might look gorgeous—but comfort matters. 

2. Material & Finish

Satin, metallics, suede, glitter—each gives off a different vibe. Metallics and sequins can reflect light beautifully in photos; matte finishes might be more forgiving of scuffs. Rosatina’s selection includes elegant textures and finishes to match various dress styles. 

3. Color Coordination

Neutral tones like nude, gold, or silver go with almost everything. If your dress is bold, matching the heel color to an accessory (bag, jewelry) can pull the look together. If your dress is neutral, pops of color on your heels can make a fun statement. 

4. Comfort Features

• Padded insoles
• Adjustable straps 
• Non-slip soles 
• These can make all the difference during a long night. 

5. Durability

You might only wear them once, but a quality pair will last—for dinnertimes after prom, weddings, or fancy parties. Crisp stitching, well-attached embellishments, and good materials will go a long way. 

Why Rosatina Is a Great Choice

Rosatina’s collection Homecoming Heels offers a wide assortment of styles meant for exactly this kind of moment:

• They cater to both statement pieces and elegant basics, so if you're going for sparkle and drama or something more understated, there's something in their lineup.
• Their options include different heel heights and finishes, so you can balance what looks good with what you can comfortably dance in.
• The site also offers good visual inspiration—not just product shots, but styled images that help you imagine how the heel might look with different dresses or accessories. 

Top Homecoming Heel Trends to Know

Here are some of the hottest trends for heels this season: 

• Strappy heels – Thin or wide straps add elegance and can highlight the ankle.
• Clear/transparent details – Lucite, PVC, or other see-through elements are still in style; they often give the illusion of elongating the leg.
• Metallic shine – Gold, silver, rose-gold are all very much on trend.
• Block heels or platforms – For both fashion and function; they give height but are more stable. 
• Embellishments – Crystals, pearls, sequins, or even ornamental buckles add glam without needing much else in accessories.

How to Make Your Heels Last All Night 

Even the most beautiful pair can be ruined if you’re in discomfort or if they break. Some tips:

• Break them in before the big night. Walk around your room for short periods in them. 
• Carry gel inserts or blister pads in your purse for emergencies. 
• Keep heel caps in good condition—they take a lot of wear.
• If your outfits or the venue involve stairs, grass, or uneven surfaces, bring a backup plan (or wear the backup plan for part of the night). 

Putting It All Together

Pair your chosen heels with: 

• A clutch or mini purse that complements either the heel or your dress.
• Jewelry that matches the metal of your heels—if you choose rose gold heels, a matching rose-gold bracelet can tie the look together.
• A hairstyle that shows off the neck/back, especially if your dress is low-cut, so the focus isn’t distracted.

And above all: confidence. The best part of homecoming isn’t just what you wear—it’s how you carry it.

[Hotel Review] The Myst Dong Khoi (Michelin Guide Recommended!) @ Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam

 Xin Chào, Saigon! ❤

It was my first time stepping into Ho Chi Minh City and I was excited to unbox one of the most prominent hotels in town - The Myst Dong Khoi -  a Michelin Guide recommended hotel located in the heart of District 1 of Ho Chi Minh City. 

The Myst Dong Khoi, where Saigon’s heritage meets luxury comfort 

Upon arrival, we spotted the sleek facade of the block - with windows and balconies forming a striking pattern, punctuated by leafy plants. 

Being a recent inductee into the MICHELIN Guide Hotels & Stays, the hotel is beyond a luxury stay... it’s a stay that weaves art, culture, greenery, and comfort into a narrative of Saigon’s soul. 

Location wise, it is located within walking distance from landmarks like the Saigon Opera House, the Central Post Office, and not far from vibrant shopping (Vincom Center), riverside scenery, and cultural gems. 

Look at the design and atmosphere of The Myst Dong Khoi!

At the hotel lobby, we were impressed by the tastefully decorated interior such as the unique art pieces on the wall, stained glass, wrought iron accents, hardwood flooring. The design draws from local Vietnamese and broader Indochinese influences, art deco touches, and pieces that evoke memories of old Saigon.

We also noticed the tremendous effort in assembling the centerpiece here.
The floral arrangement is replaced with different hues of flowers every day!

Here came our welcome drinks and snack, thanks to the attentive staff. ❤

Surprise came one after another! ❤

The hotel had prepared a bouquet of roses and a mini tiramisu cake for us to celebrate our anniversary; that was such a sweet gesture! Definitely something that made our stay felt special. 

Saigon Balcony Room (42 sqm)

(Standard Rate: USD 170++)

After the surprises upon checking in, we finally arrived at our room on the 5th floor. It felt like stepping into a piece of old Saigon, quietly preserved. Here we were surrounded by polished dark wood furniture and cool concrete walls.

Details aren’t just decorations here...

They are remnants of old homes, reimagined with grace:

– A solid wood daybed (ván ngựa) tucked beside the window, echoing the living rooms of old Saigon

– A hand-carved gạc-măng-rê cabinet, still breathing the scent of time

– A ceramic teapot resting on a low table, inviting you to pause

– And above it all, an elegant arched ceiling softens the light and quiets the mind

The lovely bed decor also showcased the impeccable hospitality by the team.

Open the balcony door and you’ll find a garden soaking tub (yes, bird's nest included)!

Many of The Myst Dong Khoi's rooms include balconies, so do request for one if you value outdoor space. Personally, we'd think the private deep stone bathtub was a perfect retreat in the late afternoon, especially when we were craving for some private time to enjoy the oasis of serenity in the midst of bustling Saigon. 

Rooftop pool, spa and gym are housed in the block.

For those looking for family bonding moments, perhaps soaking in the rooftop pool would be a better option. Also, we found that the hotel also offers complimentary afternoon tea (buffet-style) but we were busy exploring the town and did not have time to enjoy it. 

Rooty Bar — a bar space to relax in the evening.

Thanks to the high standard of service and design, The Myst Dong Khoi is sure to check the list: comfort, aesthetic appeal and thoughtful detail. While the rates are in the upper mid to luxury range for Ho Chi Minh City but it is well reflected in the inclusions (breakfast, amenities, location). 

Verdict

The Myst Dong Khoi offers a wholesome experience in Saigon that balances luxury with local flavours, and modern amenities with heritage flairs. If you are visiting Ho Chi Minh City, this is one of the most thoughtfully designed places to stay at. Highly recommended! 

The Myst Dong Khoi

6–8 Ho Huan Nghiep Street, District 1, Hồ Chí Minh City, Vietnam.

Telephone: +84 28 3520 3040 

Email: reservation@themystdongkhoihotel.com

Website: https://www.themystdongkhoihotel.com/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/themystdongkhoi

Instagram: @themystdongkhoi

Dear Diary | August 2025 Edition

Hello, August. ❤ 

August came and went in the blink of an eye. Between work, travel and social media, the month passed faster than I expected and I didn't get a chance to document it in real-time. Here's a quick recap of what August looked like for me..... 

"Spark" illumination at Gardens by The Bay

02.08.2025 | One of the many unforgettable experiences this August was strolling through the aerial walkway at Supertree Grove in the evening. The night came alive with stunning illuminations ammong the towering vertical gardens. 

What made it more special was catching "SPARK", a limited-time firefly-inspired light installation by Dutch artist Daan Roosegaarde, featuring thousands of silent bubbles floating gently through the air, reflecting light like tiny glowing orbs. What a quiet, immersive moment of wonder in the heart of the city! 

Wildseed at The Alkaff Mansion

03.08.2025 | Sunday brunch date. Finally visited the most beautiful café on my list after nearly 3 years in Singapore! While the dining experience itself fell short of expectations, the stunning ambiance more than made up for it. Lovin' the lovely pictures taken here.

Hello, Saigon! ❤

07.08.2025 - 10.08.2025 | Back to a trip to Vietnam after my last trip to Danang & Hoi an in 2016. This round, our 4D3N trip focused only on the bests of Ho Chi Minh City. Wandering through Saigon felt like stumbling into a forgotten corner of France. Honestly I didn't expect such elegance here, but the French colonial architecture was everywhere - faded, graceful and quietly beautiful.

Food wise, we had a marvelous time exploring the best restaurants in town including Ănăn Saigon (a One Star Michelin Guide restaurant), Bánh Mì Huynh Hoa (most sizable and sumptuous banh mi in town!), Bếp Mẹ In (Michelin Bib Gourmand restaurant), Lacàph Coffee (specialty egg coffee) and more. 

Thank you The Myst Dong Khoi (a Michelin Guide hotel) for the amazing hospitality including a surprise bouquet of roses and complimentary cake in the hotel suite :) 

Sunset serenity at the OCBC Skyway

16.08.2025 | We were back to the OCBC Skyway, but during the golden hour this round. As the sun began to dip, the warm orange and pink hues filled the horizon, painting the city skyline with a soft, dreamlike glow. Highly recommended to come earlier (and queue) before the golden hour. 

My first shoes collaboration with BARANI

23.08.2025 | This weekend was all about shooting for my new pair of classic leather pumps from Barani, a local shoemaker established since 40 years ago. Thanks for the opportunity and I look forward to more social media collaborations in future :) 

Meet the dreamiest dream in pastel pink ❤

29.08.2025 | Happy 七夕! Here came the beautiful surprise that completely made my day and filled my heart with warmth and happiness. Delicate pink roses, pristine white eustoma, and soft pink carnations - each bloom felt so thoughtfully chosen. Together, they were a quiet, radiant expression of how deeply I was being cherished and loved. Thank you :') ❤

Homebound | Happy 68th National Day!

31.08.2025 | It's Malaysia' Independence Day! Glad to have made this long weekend trip home to spend time with family (including my mischievous nephew!) and catching up with my favourite people over a good cup of coffee and delicious cakes. All in all, simple weekend brought content. 

❤❤❤

Thank you August for the beautiful moments, quiet joys and little adventures that filled my days. It was a month that reminded me to appreciate and feel deeply. Here's to carrying that feeling into the next month - September! 

 xoxo,

FiSh

31.08.2025