1. As a former Canadian expatriate, what made you start a food blog?

Interestingly enough, I was on holiday in Nova Scotia in July 2006 and was amazed at the 'foody' atmosphere throughout the province, in particular Halifax.  There seemed to be a 'buzz' about all things natural, from the farm to the sea. After our holiday, we went back to Hong Kong and I spoke to a chef friend of mine who suggested I start a food blog. At the time I had no idea what a blog was, but soon found out and it was from that conversation that I started food blogging.

2. What made you develop a liking towards Cooking Thai Food?

Thai food tends to heighten all of my senses and the fact that the ingredients are ultra fresh as well as being simple, was a huge attraction to me.

3. Which type of food do you think is more health conscious and nutritious, Thai or Western? Why?

I think both Thai and Western food can offer healthy sources of minerals and vitamins. The key is understanding how the ingredients help support and maintain the body.

4. Out of the various Oriental food recipes, which do you like the most?

My all-time favorite Asian food is Chinese. The list is too numerous to mention just one recipe.

5. What do you think is the secret behind excellent Oriental recipes?

Asian food is fresh, spices and herbs uplift dishes, and the taste sensations are amazing.

6. Do you focus on healthy ingredients and practices in your recipes? What are they?

I'm always conscious of how ingredients help the body. A good 'rule of thumb' during meal preparation is to incorporate the colors of the rainbow with regard to vegetables. The reason being that color in vegetables has a whole host of minerals, vitamins and antioxidant fighting properties which is something we all need to sustain a healthy body. I use extra virgin olive oil on a daily basis. Fresh fruit for dessert instead of cookies and cakes are also a better way to stay healthy.

7. What made you to develop an awareness to support your local community?

Nova Scotia (NS) has numerous farms and fishing areas so whenever I can, I buy locally. We have some very talented cheese making facilities with some winning at various national and international cheese shows. And let's not forget our wonderful seafood. Whenever I blog about food, if I have used food sourced from NS, I always mention who they are and if they have a website; I link back to them. It's important to support the local as well as national community as too much of our produce leaves the country. Supporting local also means small businesses have an opportunity to survive. It just makes sense to try and keep my dollars in my own community.