In an extraordinary display of resilience and determination, Kokichi Akuzawa, a 102-year-old Japanese man, has been officially recognised by Guinness World Records as the oldest person ever to climb Mount Fuji, Japan’s highest and most iconic peak.
Born in 1923, Akuzawa isn’t new to mountains — but this time, he scaled Fuji under extraordinary circumstances. Just months before his climb in August, he was hospitalised with shingles and heart failure following a fall during a local mountain walk near his home in Gunma Prefecture.
Despite concerns from his family and doctors, Akuzawa was determined to bounce back. And he did.
Akuzawa began a strict self-devised training regimen:
Daily 1-hour morning walks
Weekly mountain hikes
Gradual rebuilding of stamina and altitude tolerance
His daughter Yukiko, 75, said doctors were astonished by how quickly he regained strength:
“The recovery was so fast that his doctors could not believe it.”
Mount Fuji stands at 3,776 meters (12,388 feet). Akuzawa tackled the ascent over three days, spending two nights in mountain huts. The altitude nearly made him give up, but with the support of his granddaughter — a trained nurse — and other companions, he pushed through to the summit.
Despite the effort, Akuzawa remained modest:
“I’ve been there and seen the view many times. It wasn’t anything special.”
A retired livestock farmer, Akuzawa continues to lead a full life. He volunteers at a local elderly care center and teaches painting — activities that show his active lifestyle isn’t limited to hiking trails.
Asked whether he would climb Mount Fuji again, he replied with a chuckle:
“No.”
Akuzawa’s story is a testament to the human spirit, aging with grace, and the power of persistence. In a world where age often becomes a barrier, Kokichi Akuzawa is a reminder that passion and preparation can truly move mountains — even at 102.
When Chef Avinash Martins first walked into the Iron Chef Thailand kitchen, he had no idea what was coming. There was no briefing, no prep, and no planned menu — just pure culinary instinct.
“We weren’t prepared at all,” he admits. “We had to rely entirely on gut and creativity.”
This wasn’t just another cooking competition — it was global, unpredictable, and intense. And in the midst of chaos, Avinash had to make every second count.
The competition wasn’t just mentally intense — it was physically punishing. Filming went on for 18 to 20 hours a day, leaving barely 2 to 3 hours of sleep. In between studio runs, travel, and brief breaks, there was no time to recover. To make matters worse, Avinash had just recovered from the flu two days before arriving in Thailand. His stomach was upset, and he survived on bananas and electrolytes for most of the shoot. “By the third day, I was on autopilot,” he says. “But I kept going. That’s what Iron Chef demands — fitness, focus, and a lot of grit.” It was a brutal test of stamina and resilience — both of which he passed with quiet strength.
🥥Cooking Goan Food Without Goan Ingredients
Recreating Indian and Goan dishes in a Southeast Asian kitchen was a huge challenge. The pantry was stocked with sauces and pastes unfamiliar to Indian cuisine, and staples like fresh masalas, curry leaves, and grinding equipment were nowhere to be found.
Still, Chef Avinash adapted. He turned to coconut milk and chili paste, and used basic dry spices like turmeric and chili powder to reimagine Goan classics like caldine and ambotik — dishes known for their deep, layered flavors and heritage.
“It was tough,” he says, “but we made it work with creativity and quick thinking.”
A Dessert Curveball — and a Surprise Win
The real curveball came in the very first round. Chef Avinash was handed saba king mackerel as the main ingredient — but just 20 minutes in, the team was stopped and given fermented soybeans. The twist? Turn them into a dessert.
Avinash had never even tasted fermented soybeans before, and desserts weren’t his strength.
“That’s usually my partner’s department at the restaurant,” he laughs.
Still, he pulled together a dish under pressure — and won the round.
🌊Storytelling on the Plate: Where the River Meets the Sea
Despite the pace and pressure, Chef Avinash never lost sight of his philosophy: every dish must have a story.
At Iron Chef, that story became Where the River Meets the Sea — a dish pairing mackerel, symbolizing the sea, and prawns, symbolizing the river. Each was complemented by a distinct Goan sauce — a mild, coconut-based caldine, and a tangy, spicy ambotik.
“I wanted to bring Betul, my village in Goa, to that global stage,” he says. “Even if storytelling wasn’t a judging criteria, for me, it was all heart.”
A Proud Moment for Goa — and the West Coast
To Chef Avinash, it was about more than representing a region.
“It wasn’t just Goa — it was the entire west coast of India,” he reflects. “Once you’re in the Iron Chef kitchen, it’s about instincts, execution, and heart.”
Despite misconceptions from judges — including the idea that all Indian food is “just curry” — Chef Avinash and his team broke through those assumptions with flavor, technique, and innovation.
Iron Chef Legacy at Home
Back in Goa, the Iron Chef title follows him — and with it, expectations. Diners now walk into his restaurants, Cavatina and Janat, expecting nothing short of world-class.
“It’s changed how people see our work,” he says. “But we don’t take it lightly. We work even harder now.”
Iron Chef also reignited something personal — the drive to be physically ready.
“I’ve started hitting the gym after 15 years. Because now I know — cooking is also about stamina.”
✨Always Ready for the Next Challenge
For Chef Avinash Martins, success isn’t defined by awards or media coverage. It’s about legacy — giving back to Goa, telling its stories, and lifting up its artisans.
At Cavatina, he collaborates with toddy tappers, bakers, and basket weavers, infusing their work into a 7-course experience.
“If people one day say, ‘This chef did something for Goa,’ that’s success to me,” he says.
As for what’s next?
“I’m open,” he smiles. “Whatever the universe sends, I just want to be ready — in better health, sharper mindset, and able to give it my all.”
Singapore – August 4, 2025: For travelers passing through Changi Airport, layovers are about to get a whole lot more exciting—and tropical. Starting August 1, a brand-new Free Singapore Tour to Sentosa invites transit passengers with layovers of at least 5.5 hours to dive into an unforgettable island adventure, completely free of charge.
Organized as part of Singapore’s world-class hospitality at Changi Airport, the Sentosa Discovery Tour offers a 2.5-hour curated experience through one of Singapore’s most iconic destinations—Sentosa Island. Once a British military base, Sentosa has transformed into a vibrant blend of nature, entertainment, and culture.
What’s in the Tour?
🌿 Sentosa Sensoryscape Walk through six immersive sensory zones along a 350-meter trail featuring floral projections, ambient soundscapes, and interactive gardens.
🌀 Resorts World Sentosa Catch glimpses of the world-famous Universal Studios Singapore, Adventure Cove Waterpark, and the new Singapore Oceanarium. Don’t forget to snap a selfie with the iconic Universal Studios globe!
🏖️ Siloso Beach Enjoy the sights and sounds of Sentosa’s most energetic beach—perfect for people-watching, volleyball, or simply soaking in the tropical vibes.
🎨 Peranakan-Inspired Light Installation(limited-time: till August 31) A visual tribute to Singapore’s rich cultural roots, featuring vivid projections and intricate heritage patterns.
🌠 Optional Add-On: Wings of Time Show Upgrade your experience with a ticket to this legendary sea-side show featuring fireworks, lasers, water jets, and music. Payable on-site during the tour.
Tour Essentials
🕒 Duration: 2.5 hours
🕖 Departure: 7PM daily
🎫 Eligibility: Only transit passengers with layovers of 5.5+ hours
📍 Where to Register:
Terminal 2: Near Gate F50
Terminal 3: Near Gates A1–A8
All others: Take the skytrain to Terminal 3
📌 Requirements:
Valid passport
Boarding passes (arrival & next flight)
Tour confirmation
Entry visa (if applicable)
Whether you’re a seasoned jet-setter or a first-time visitor, this free tour is your golden chance to transform a transit stop into a stunning island escape—without even leaving the airport transit zone.
Tucked away in the eastern corner of Asia, Japan is a fascinating country that seamlessly blends traditional and modern culture. From its rich history and vibrant cities to its breathtaking landscapes and delectable cuisine, Japan is a destination that has something for everyone.
Japan’s history dates back to the Paleolithic era, with the earliest known inhabitants arriving around 30,000 BCE. Over the centuries, Japan has evolved through various periods, including the Samurai era, the Meiji Restoration, and the post-war economic miracle. Today, Japan is a thriving democracy and a major player on the world stage.
Japan’s cities are a testament to its unique blend of tradition and modernity. From the neon-lit skyscrapers of Tokyo to the historic temples of Kyoto, each city has its own distinct character.
Tokyo: Japan’s capital city is a bustling metropolis with a population of over 13 million. Visit the famous Tsukiji Fish Market, take a stroll through the beautiful Imperial Palace East Garden, or explore the trendy Harajuku district.
Kyoto: This historic city is home to countless temples, shrines, and gardens. Visit the iconic Kinkaku-ji Temple (Golden Pavilion), stroll through the serene Arashiyama Bamboo Grove, or explore the traditional Gion district.
Osaka: Known as the “nation’s kitchen,” Osaka is a food lover’s paradise. Visit the famous Dotonbori neighborhood, try some delicious street food, or explore the historic Osaka Castle.
Japan’s natural beauty is just as impressive as its cities. From the snow-capped mountains of the Japanese Alps to the stunning coastlines of Okinawa, there’s no shortage of breathtaking landscapes to explore.
Mount Fuji: Japan’s iconic mountain is a must-visit for any traveler. Take a day trip to the Fuji Five Lakes region, hike to the summit, or simply admire its beauty from afar.
Nikko National Park: Located just a few hours north of Tokyo, Nikko is a UNESCO World Heritage Site famous for its ornate temples and shrines. Explore the Toshogu Shrine, dedicated to the deified spirit of Tokugawa Ieyasu, or hike through the beautiful mountains and lakes.
Okinawa: Located in southern Japan, Okinawa is a tropical paradise famous for its stunning beaches, crystal-clear waters, and unique Ryukyu culture. Visit the famous Shuri Castle, explore the beautiful Kerama Islands, or simply relax on the beach. Delicious Cuisine
Japanese cuisine is world-renowned for its fresh ingredients, simple preparation methods, and unique flavors. From sushi and ramen to tempura and yakitori, there’s a wide variety of delicious dishes to try.
Sushi: Japan’s national dish is a must-try for any traveler. Visit the famous Tsukiji Fish Market in Tokyo, try some delicious sushi at a local restaurant, or take a sushi-making class.
Ramen: This popular noodle soup is a staple of Japanese cuisine. Visit the famous Ichiran Ramen in Fukuoka, try some delicious tonkotsu ramen in Kyushu, or explore the various regional ramen styles.
Tempura: This popular Japanese dish consists of lightly battered and deep-fried seafood and vegetables. Visit the famous Tempura Kondo in Tokyo, try some delicious tempura at a local restaurant, or take a tempura-making class. Unique Culture
Japan’s unique culture is a fascinating blend of traditional and modern elements. From its vibrant festivals and celebrations to its ancient temples and shrines, there’s always something new to discover.
Cherry Blossom Festival: Japan’s famous cherry blossom festival (Hanami) is a must-experience for any traveler. Visit the famous Ueno Park in Tokyo, attend a traditional Hanami party, or simply admire the beautiful blossoms.
Traditional Tea Ceremony: Japan’s traditional tea ceremony (Chanoyu, Sado or Ocha) is a unique and fascinating experience. Visit the famous Urasenke Foundation in Kyoto, attend a traditional tea ceremony, or take a tea-making class.
Sumo Wrestling: Japan’s ancient sport of sumo wrestling is a thrilling and unique experience. Visit the famous Ryogoku Kokugikan in Tokyo, attend a live sumo tournament, or take a sumo-wrestling class.
Weekend Trip… As soon as the news breaks of a weekend trip, well you tend to plan all sorts of things, what it take, what not to take. What you will require, what you will not.! But hell, one of the biggest mistake atleast girls that is we do is that we tend to overpack like a lot of things, like seriously like a lot of things.
However, best ways to pack for the weekend trip would be to stick to basics and at the same time to look daunting!
Selecting the Right Bag – First of all, Chuck Suitcase out of this Trip! Remember, this is a weekend Trip, so select a small backup that will be able to carry your essentials in it!
What’s On Your Travel Itinerary? – Whenever you pack, consider the itinerary that will help you pack for the trip the best. Suppose you are going for an adventure trip like that of trekking, swimming, taking heels wouldn’t serve the purpose at all. So avoid taking them!
Selective Clothes Only – Try to take selecting clothes only. You could take a couple of shorts or troussers and the same could be mixed matched with the t-shirts, try to include bright colors in your wadrobe also whites and blacks look great! But pack only clothes if you are going to wear them, be true to yourself.
Have a Final Look – Here you can take a final look and deduct unneccesary clothing, systematically packing clothes will help you to wear them directly without having to iron them again. Also, remember when you plan to go for trips like these, wear always the heaviest shoe rather than packing them. This saves the pain of carrying them on your back.
To end with, remember pack only essentials. If there is space in your bag pack, great! you could pick a souvenir for yourself and for me too!
So it is tuesday now, you could plan a quick trip this weekend and at the same time go through these tips! Do Like and Share Your Feedback. Happy Weekend Travelling!
