To see culture coming alive, unfettered by politics, religion or race, was the true gift of the Rainforest Fringe Festival. It captured dignity. Scheduled to return next year, the Festival should continue to take people – and their pride – to the next level.

Sustainably built and serving great food, visit Langkawi’s upside-down house – Upsidow – for another view.

“I didn’t even know what basil and lemongrass looked like,” exclaims Apple Kitaphanich, aghast at her initial ignorance. “Or what to do with them.”