Friday, February 18, 2011

Ride down the Canals of Amsterdam


Some cities you can explore by foot, some you can take a bike, but in Amsterdam, it would be just perfect to take a river ride along the many "grachts" (canals), to appreciate this unique city.

Avignon TGV train station


I have never seen any train station like this, ever. Talk about unique, modern and mind-blowing! If love architecture and are in the area of Avignon, look for the "modern" train station (since there is another train station in Avignon).

Paella in Spain


When in Spain, don't you think one should at least sample the Paella when given the opportunity? Though it is said that this dish has its origins in Valencia, Paella is now readily available in almost any Spanish city. What is even more interesting, is the fact that there are so many versions of it that tasting the different varieties within the country. Depending on what main ingredients are in the Paella, from chicken, rabbit, pork, seafood, a mixture of both seafood and meat, or even a vegetarian version. I would highly recommend looking for any Spanish restaurant in any destination in Spain for the delicious, Paella.

Bacolod's Chicken Inasal


Many associate Bacolod with Chicken Inasal, and I can certainly agree with those who say so. The Chicken "Inasal" (Grilled) has this amazing flavor, which could be from either the marinade or the dipping sauce, or maybe both. Whatever the "secret ingredient" may be, a must-do would be to drop by any of the numerous Chicken Inasal restaurants in Bacolod for this amazing succulent dish.

Tuesday, February 15, 2011

Khmer food, a Cambodian delight


Who would have ever thought I would be enjoying the food in Cambodia!? For me, it has this amazing blend of Thai and Vietnamese cuisine that combined just beautifully. The dishes were hot, but just right and the mixture of curries, spices and herbs left me in awe and a craving to order some more.

There one main dish I would recommend, which are the Amok, a traditional dish, usually prepared with fish, but has often been substituted with chicken, lobster or even prawns and the 2 main ingredients would be the coconut milk and turmeric. The additional ingredients of onion, garlic, kaffir lime leaves, lemon grass, fish sauce, sugar and paprika, just make this dish even more flavorful.

So, if the opportunity of trying Khmer food is before you, grab it and savor every bit of it!

Tuesday, October 19, 2010

Cafe Batavia in Jakarta, Indonesia


This cafe is housed in a 19th century 2 storey structure, situated in the historic center of Jakarta, called Old Batavia. Previously a residence, and then a warehouse and even an office, this cafe has seen a lot of changes, but it still has retained a lot of its old charm and whim. Drop by for a coffee or even sample some of the goodies in their menu, while you admire the charming interiors.

Sunday, October 10, 2010

Sagrada Familia


I think, no trip to Barcelona would ever be complete, without a trip to the Temple of the Sagrada Familia. This unfinished masterpiece by the Modernist, Antoni Gaudi, who dedicated his life to this Neo-Gothic church. The structure has 4 monumental bell towers, representing the 4 evangelists. Then, there are 3 sides with four towers each, totaling to 12, the number of the apostles. There are two domes, each dedicated to Christ and the Virgin Mary, respectively. What interests me the most are the three sides, each depicting, the Birth, the Passion & Death and finally, the Resurrection of Jesus Christ.

It is easy to reach, even by subway or bus, so when you get there, take your time to enjoy this magnificent structure.