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TLC uncovers secrets of Vietnamese cuisine in ‘Luke Nuguyen’s Vietnam’
MUMBAI: Luke Nguyen acclaimed Australian-Vietnamese chef returns to the country of his heritage to learn centuries-old cooking secrets, traditions and techniques in ‘Luke Nuguyen’s Vietnam’, a brand new series on TLC. From his food-obsessed extended family, as well as home cooks and local street-food vendors scattered across the southern regions, Luke travels around Vietnam to learn from the people of the country.
‘Luke Nuguyen’s Vietnam’ premieres on 5 January and will air every Monday to Friday at 8 PM, only on TLC.
In the ten-part series, Luke will travel through Vietnam’s spectacular northern countryside, visiting the natural wonders of Ha Long Bay, stopping at the bustling and French inspired Hanoi and all the way to the beautiful mountains of Sapa. Along the way he prepares dishes in locations that represent an authentic Vietnam, in all its chaotic vibrancy.
Each episode will explore the food and culture of Vietnam, while on the journey he enlists the local dish to be cooked by him. On a journey of Vietnam’s southern region, Luke travels from Saigon, through the Mekong Delta, and north along the coast to the World Heritage-listed city of Hoi An. Along the way, he meets many relatives, who share with him the secrets of Vietnamese cuisine, and help him discover the tiny cottage industries that have been creating vital ingredients for many centuries.
Discover Vietnam’s diverse cuisine as Luke whips up tantalizing dishes along his journey: from favourite takeaway snacks like green papaya salad, to local favourites like sweet Mekong shrimp with fried pork belly, to unusual dishes like deep fried pumpkin flowers stuffed with prawns and dill.
Join Luke on his quest to trace his heritage and the secrets that make Vietnamese food the ‘nouvelle cuisine of Asia’ in ‘Luke Nuguyen’s Vietnam’.
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National Geographic launches ‘Postcards from Hong Kong’ with Ridhi Dogra
New series explores the city’s hidden gems and vibrant contrasts, premiering 28 March.
MUMBAI: Ridhi Dogra just sent a postcard from Hong Kong that’s worth framing because when a bustling metropolis reveals its quiet trails and timeless traditions, even the skyline takes a back seat. National Geographic has unveiled Postcards from Hong Kong, a refreshing travel series hosted and curated by actor Ridhi Dogra. Produced by National Geographic Creative Works in collaboration with the Hong Kong Tourism Board, the show offers an intimate, Indian traveller’s perspective on one of Asia’s most iconic cities, moving beyond its glittering harbour and skyscrapers to uncover serene beaches, scenic hiking trails and deep cultural traditions.
Across three visually rich episodes, Ridhi journeys through contrasting sides of Hong Kong. The first episode takes her on a quieter path of self-discovery to places like Sai Kung, Big Wave Bay, Dragon’s Back, Tai O, Ngong Ping, Po Lin Monastery and the Tian Tan Buddha. The second episode dives into the city’s energetic side, from the bustling streets of Causeway Bay to Happy Valley Racecourse, Michelin-starred spots and luxury shopping at Landmark.
Ridhi Dogra said, “Being part of Postcards from Hong Kong with Nat Geo was a deeply enriching experience. What I love about this journey is that it goes beyond the obvious; it’s not just about the skyline or the speed of the city but about the stories that live in its quieter corners.”
A National Geographic India spokesperson added, “With Postcards from Hong Kong, we set out to go beyond the familiar and explore the city through a more intimate, human lens.”
Hong Kong Tourism Board director of South Asia Puneet Kumar noted, “Postcards from Hong Kong is a reflection of meaningful storytelling that brings the city to life in an immersive way. It beautifully captures the diversity and spirit that define Hong Kong.”
Blending travel, culture and personal storytelling, the series celebrates Hong Kong as a city of contrasts where modern life meets tradition and every corner holds a story waiting to be discovered. It premieres on 28 March at 8 pm on the National Geographic Channel and will also stream on JioHotstar.
In a world of hurried travel reels, Postcards from Hong Kong slows things down just enough to let viewers truly see the city not just its lights, but its layers, proving that the best souvenirs are the stories you bring home.
