tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-75400783565449009272024-03-18T02:47:18.357-07:00 CarlitaA travel, lifestyle and foodie blog. I write mainly about my travelling adventures and the delicious food I taste along the way. Carlitahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10533463740017757079noreply@blogger.comBlogger45125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7540078356544900927.post-88500760134969571752020-10-02T22:11:00.009-07:002020-10-31T21:56:07.241-07:00The Ultimate 24 Hour Bratislava City Guide | Bratislava Things To Do<i>Nestled between imposing neighbours, Bratislava is a charming, yet often overlooked capital in Central Europe.</i><br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-size: 0px; text-align: center;">
<img alt="Bratislava City Guide and Svatopluk Statue" border="0" height="100%" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-oUHMh5p5pu4/X3gFDaoCq4I/AAAAAAAAGu8/fdKIgrz6tikyGQhPDjnwn9TbumFoaULbgCLcBGAsYHQ/s0/bratislava-castle-svatopluk-statue.jpg" title="Bratislava" width="100%" /></div>
<br />
Slovakia is an oft-forgotten destination in the travel planning world. Sandwiched among prominent Central European neighbours it's easy to overlook this pint-sized destination - but if you look a little closer Bratislava is bursting with charm with a generous list of things to see and do.
<br />
<br />
<a name='more'></a>
After arriving at the Bratislava Main Railway Station at the crack of dawn we hopped in a taxi and made our way to the Hotel Tatra Bratislava. Cars are not permitted on the streets of the Old Town so we specifically chose a hotel just outside its boundaries.
<br />
<br />
Snagging an early check in meant we could take advantage of the entire day. We asked the hotel receptionist about the pearly castle on the mountain towering over the city. "Bratislava Castle" he advised us in his thick Slovakian accent, "only a 30 minute walk from here". We grabbed a map and with eyes on the skyline, began heading in the general direction of the castle.
<br />
<br />
Huffing and puffing, we made it to the lavish wrought iron and marble gates of the castle exactly thirty minutes later. Perched directly above the city, we admired the impressive grounds surrounding the castle and the 360 degree view of the Old Town (<i>Stare Mesto</i> in Slovakian) below us.
<br />
<br />
Before beginning our castle tour, our guide told us the mighty statue in front of the castle piercing the air with a sword is <i>Svatopluk</i>, the greatest King of the Moravian Empire.
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-size: 0px; text-align: center;">
<img alt="Bratislava Castle English Gardens" border="0" height="100%" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-AiRSH0k_OPw/X3gFHCBRCxI/AAAAAAAAGvA/LUCvoG9prVkn0PDRzelrP7eQ0kBSFJeQQCLcBGAsYHQ/s0/bratislava-castle-vase.jpg" title="Bratislava Castle" width="100%" /></div>
<br />
Admiring its manicured gardens as we shuffled towards the entrance, we entered the discreet front doors of the whitewashed castle. We were told the 'castle hill' has housed numerous empires for over a millenia from the Celts to the Slavs and Hungarians, but today the castle functions as the official Slovak National Museum. We spent 2 hours roaming the castle learning about Slovakian history and admiring the art and history exhibitions.
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-size: 0px; text-align: center;">
<img alt="Bratislava Castle English Gardens and Pomegranate Tree" border="0" height="100%" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-WKIjZ2L96-0/X3gFKvA-YlI/AAAAAAAAGvE/THq2n8cS8iAuEZiUmpjkgV1rYdlN4xtywCLcBGAsYHQ/s0/bratislava-castle-gardens-pomegranate-tree.jpg" title="Bratislava Castle Gardens" width="100%" /></div>
<br />
After the tour we stepped outside the castle to wander the English gardens in the surrounding grounds. Immaculately manicured, there is a maze of large and small gardens enveloping the castle in every direction.
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-size: 0px; text-align: center;">
<img alt="Bratislava Castle English Gardens and Pomegranate Tree" border="0" height="100%" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/--X6fFILfFZU/X3gFMV0r26I/AAAAAAAAGvI/RCHbTFh_Xb8YM0nd1sYk4sCU5m2Fu5pVwCLcBGAsYHQ/s0/bratislava-castle-gardens.jpg" title="Bratislava Castle Gardens" width="100%" /></div>
<br />
After a quick coffee we made our way back to the Old Town. Carefully descending the slopes of the castle hill we found refuge in a small garden square. A pack of tourists were snapping photos of a statue of a woman with luscious hair surrounded by ravens. A quick check of our paper map told us this one of Bratislava's many bronze sculptures scattered around the city. This one (called <i>Bosorka</i> in Slovakian) is a tribute to the women of the past wrongly accused of witchcraft and drowned in the waters of the Danube.
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-size: 0px; text-align: center;">
<img alt="Bratislava Witch Bosorka Bronze Statue" border="0" height="100%" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-PzCv5y9cQoc/X3gFPLfw80I/AAAAAAAAGvM/SgGO6_XiqRc-zk0UherMN0qMSe7CMohFwCLcBGAsYHQ/s0/bratislava-bosorka-witch-statue.jpg" title="Bratislava Witch Statue" width="100%" /></div>
<br />
Following the steep decline of the ground but no longer able to see the Old Town below, we found ourselves facing the fortifications surrounding the Old Town. Most of the medieval fortifications had been demolished but this small part on the outskirts of the city remained. Well preserved, the walls are a glimpse into the city's embattled past.
<br />
<br />
Crossing the bridge that separated us from the Old Town we stopped directly above the bustling highway and saw a peculiar shaped monument in front of us. We later found out this structure is the local 'UFO' and houses a restaurant, bar and observation deck.
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-size: 0px; text-align: center;">
<img alt="Bratislava Wall Fortifications and UFO" border="0" height="100%" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-UJLFmq0_AEw/X3gFRChgswI/AAAAAAAAGvQ/ZpNuuCBI_GYW701zLgnnV8gl1SIyVO5BgCLcBGAsYHQ/s0/bratislava-ufo-restaurant-fortified-walls.jpg" title="Bratislava Wall and UFO" width="100%" /></div>
<br />
Back inside the walls of the Old Town we found ourselves following cracked cobblestone roads and winding in and out of charming narrow lanes. We took our time enjoying the understated charm of Bratislava and admiring the history and mystery of the buildings and palaces we strolled past.
<br />
<br />
The streets of the Old Town are a 'car free' zone, which makes for the perfect opportunity to embrace 'slow travel' and soak up the envirnoment surrounding you at your own pace.
<br />
<br />
We stopped for lunch on an intimate road packed with cafes, galleries and restaurants. Our waiter informed us the tall white structure at the end of the road is Michael's Gate, a medieval fortification from a bygone era and the last of its kind. Built in the 14th century to keep guard over the city, it now houses a museum, luxury shops and restaurants.
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-size: 0px; text-align: center;">
<img alt="Bratislava Old Town Lane Michael's Gate" border="0" height="100%" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-IG8LoOY8-xA/X3gFTzn-M8I/AAAAAAAAGvU/LruM1zBAVSs8qhSnWK9Jn59Uw5hdP8dugCLcBGAsYHQ/s0/bratislava-old-town-michaels-gate.jpg" title="Bratislava Michael's Gate" width="100%" /></div>
<br />
In need of a post lunch stroll we continued roaming the Old Town and began noticing some quirky and imaginative bronze statues in various poses doing various things. Our favourite was <i>Cumil</i>, the 'Man at Work' taking a rest after a day of hard work cleaning the underground sewer.
<br />
<br />
10 of these statues can be found in different corners of the Old Town and were designed to scrub the dark communist past of Slovakia.
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-size: 0px; text-align: center;">
<img alt="Bratislava Ground Sculpture Cumil Man At Work" border="0" height="100%" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-9n4MNY1JdRI/X3gFW3q55HI/AAAAAAAAGvY/09zRJ68RFYYeEk9KjQKVsQkJdm6G58uPACLcBGAsYHQ/s0/bratislava-cumil-man-at-work-bronze-statue.jpg" title="Bratislava Ground Statue" width="100%" /></div>
<br />
Hitching a taxi back to the hotel, we decided we would try to get a dinner booking for the UFO restaurant. Our hotel receptionist made a 6pm booking for us over the phone; and we had a few hours to wind down in our room.
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;"><b>. . . . .</b></div>
<br />
After arriving at the UFO a little early we were ushered to the bar for a pre-dinner cocktail. Perched above the Danube in the middle of the SNP bridge we savoured a panoramic view of Bratislava as the sun set over the city.
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-size: 0px; text-align: center;">
<img alt="Bratislava UFO Restaurant Cocktail" border="0" height="100%" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-4_XoW6lf_7E/X3gFZiCbBvI/AAAAAAAAGvc/AlzSwJHROAsoCFqmDvM5uyoUcmAS424ugCLcBGAsYHQ/s0/bratislava-ufo-restaurant-danube.jpg" title="Bratislava UFO Restaurant" width="100%" /></div>
<br />
We moved to the dining room when our table was ready and were faced with the difficult decision of ordering a la carte or the degustation menu. Not knowing if we could comfortably finish a 7 course meal, we designed our own 3 course meal each.
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-size: 0px; text-align: center;">
<img alt="Bratislava UFO Restaurant Dessert" border="0" height="100%" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-MNedyg2DWtk/X3gFbfbRzeI/AAAAAAAAGvg/fRtfWwwF3GozUX21mE1uKma79WIgcjXBwCLcBGAsYHQ/s0/bratislava-ufo-restauran-meal.jpg" title="Bratislava UFO Restaurant" width="100%" /></div>
<br />
After leisurely basking in the ambience of the restaurant and enjoying our meal over a few hours the waiter suggested a visit the observation deck after dessert. Hiking up a narrow flight of spires we landed on the small rectangular observation deck no larger than 10 metres square. Spoiled with a spectacular view of the illuminated Bratislava Castle we had visited earlier in the day to the left; and the Old Town we spent hours wandering to the right; we were satisfied wrapping up our short stay in Bratislava.
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-size: 0px; text-align: center;">
<img alt="Bratislava UFO Observation Deck" border="0" height="100%" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-0Dvh1RPxKn8/X3gFeyjIulI/AAAAAAAAGvo/isTlxHMjp9clWeZroi_3dw41_C8RcuWxQCLcBGAsYHQ/s0/bratislava-ufo-observation-deck-panorama.jpg" title="Bratislava Observation Deck" width="100%" /></div>
Carlitahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10533463740017757079noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7540078356544900927.post-8181080641537667422020-01-24T03:31:00.017-08:002020-10-28T06:10:21.173-07:00One Breathtaking Day in Cesky Krumlov (Day Trip from Prague)<i>Just a stone's throw away from the capital, we spent one full day in the charming Cesky Krumlov.</i><br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-size: 0; text-align: center;">
<img alt="One Day in Cesky Krumlov" border="0" height="100%" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-G_AAThjH3d0/XirRxJRmLJI/AAAAAAAAGpQ/8pGAWcsvsIwbkGSuf_DPdAeMI-ictwMeACLcBGAsYHQ/s1600/cesky-krumlov.jpg" title="Cesky Krumlov" width="100%" /></div>
<br />
Towards the end of our stay in Prague we decided to branch out and visit a city in the countryside before moving onto our next destination. Brimming with choice after researching day trips at the local tour office we settled on Cesky Krumlov, a town in Southern Bohemia described to us as a fairytale village hidden in the deep south of the Czech Republic.
<br />
<br />
<a name='more'></a>
<div style="text-align: center;"><b>. . . . .</b></div>
<br />
Half awake and devouring my breakfast at daybreak I wondered whether we had made the right choice selecting a single day trip hitting the road at the crack of dawn. When our tour bus arrived I was delighted to see curtains and reclining chairs; I was able to sneak in a few extra hours of snooze before we arrived at our destination.
<br />
<br />
Three hours later I was awakened by our tour guide ushering us off the bus. We hiked up a steep hill and stepped into the lush Cesky Krumlov Castle Gardens that overlooked a panorama of the entire town. Our guide explained to us the river that surrounds the town is the Vltava River that runs through the major cities of the Czech Republic and is sometimes referred to as the 'Czech national river'.
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-size: 0; text-align: center;">
<img alt="Cesky Krumlov Panorama from the Castle Gardens" border="0" height="100%" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-zBhAnVUbsSA/XirR0FL987I/AAAAAAAAGpU/ailC93baHAQpYJxSoT7WiAFLI_zrG33uACLcBGAsYHQ/s1600/cesky-krumlov-panorama.jpg" title="Cesky Krumlov Panorama" width="100%" /></div>
<br />
Before we crossed the Cloak Bridge (the bridge that crosses the Vltava River connecting us to central Cesky Krumlov) our guide pointed out a sundial on the side of the Renaissance House. Featuring a motif on the bottom left hand corner thought to be Cesky Krumlov itself, we were told that there were a total of 5 sundials scattered throughout the town each featuring elaborate designs and concepts.
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-size: 0; text-align: center;">
<img alt="Cesky Krumlov Sundial on Castle Number 177 Renaissance House" border="0" height="100%" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-fJQUv5AgNPI/XirR26-wCVI/AAAAAAAAGpY/nWUsuwCEyQcpwSbkJ2bPdg-RJM-264upwCLcBGAsYHQ/s1600/cesky-krumlov-sundial.jpg" title="Cesky Krumlov Sundial" width="100%" /></div>
<br />
As we meandered through the majestic courtyards of the Castle our guide instructed us to stop in the 4th courtyard to admire the wall paintings. Dating from the 1500s the courtyard features scenes depicting Greek and Roman mythology.
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-size: 0; text-align: center;">
<img alt="Cesky Krumlov 4th Courtyard Painted Castle Walls " border="0" height="100%" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-t2gBs5qq7F0/XirR6YJ48EI/AAAAAAAAGpc/A1OnUH35_lIKu9YUpO-qVgjbl8fY8mjcwCLcBGAsYHQ/s1600/cesky-krumlov-painted-walls.jpg" title="Cesky Krumlov Painted Castle Walls" width="100%" /></div>
<br />
We were then escorted into the 2nd courtyard of the castle which was completed over a century later. A wide open space with a refreshing water fountain in the middle; the most interesting thing about the 2nd courtyard is just beyond the outskirts of the enclosure. Below the walkway connecting the 1st and 2nd courtyards of the castle is a bear moat that has been in use since the 1700s.
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-size: 0; text-align: center;">
<img alt="Cesky Krumlov Castle 2nd Courtyard Fountain" border="0" height="100%" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Tp7fpE51ZOg/XirR8zmzJ2I/AAAAAAAAGpg/Nbyk2vWozYEO5tO4NondhyPfUbee1_8MQCLcBGAsYHQ/s1600/cesky-krumlov-castle-courtyard-fountain.jpg" title="Cesky Krumlov Castle Courtyard" width="100%" /></div>
<br />
In this section of the castle we were in the periphery of the tallest structure in the town, the Cesky Krumlov Castle Tower. Towering above its surroundings, the pink green speckled tower is the most visible feature of the town. With access from the Little Castle it is possible to climb the six storey tower for a fee, but we decided against it due to the time constraints of our single day tour.
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-size: 0; text-align: center;">
<img alt="Cesky Krumlov Castle Tower from the 2nd Courtyard" border="0" height="100%" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-RC_8fEIUiQs/XirR_PEOKRI/AAAAAAAAGpk/TOhejC8c2qgqc2UoFDCi-c4bpxctcd78gCLcBGAsYHQ/s1600/cesky-krumlov-castle-tower.jpg" title="Cesky Krumlov Castle Tower" width="100%" /></div>
<br />
Once outside the castle we followed narrow cobblestoned streets through the Latrán district taking time to admire the local crafts and immaculate shopfronts. As we wandered the tightly winding main street and passed numerous narrow alleys I was reminded of a mini version of Prague.
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-size: 0; text-align: center;">
<img alt="Cesky Krumlov Gingerbread Shop Cesky Pernik" border="0" height="100%" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-BklW9zlnr0M/XirSCdv6jbI/AAAAAAAAGpo/TlVL4OnljXwL7tc5kJVLkC_tFziKsYPtACLcBGAsYHQ/s1600/cesky-krumlov-shop-cesky-pernik.jpg" title="Cesky Krumlov Shopfront" width="100%" /></div>
<br />
After an hour of wandering we arrived at Svornosti Square, the centre of the Old Town. Flanked by an array of colourful buldings, the open square is surrounded by restaurants and hotels. The most remarkable feature of the square is the Plague Column. Dedicated to the period that the plague struck the town, it features the saints that protect the town topped by the Virgin Mary.
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-size: 0; text-align: center;">
<img alt="Cesky Krumlov town square Svornosti Square and the Plague Column" border="0" height="100%" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-RHFoS6__WoU/XirSEtEdmiI/AAAAAAAAGps/ihTBJuHTpmERKOL0kY1ZXNGvpuF15jaZgCLcBGAsYHQ/s1600/cesky-krumlov-svornosti-square.jpg" title="Cesky Krumlov Svornosti Square" width="100%" /></div>
<br />
As we began walking to the group lunch destination our tour guide directed our attention to a decorative motif on a wall. He explained to us it is the coat of arms of the ruling Schwarzenberg family. Depicting a raven pecking out the eyes of a Turk, the coat of arms makes an allusion to the failed Ottoman invasion of Bohemia. Our guide instructed us to keep our eyes out for the coat of arms of other ruling families of Cesky Krumlov, in particular the Rosenbergs whose emblem features a five petal rose.
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-size: 0; text-align: center;">
<img alt="Cesky Krumlov Schwarzenberg Coat of Arms with Turk and Raven" border="0" height="100%" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-GQknvtBbQI4/XirSHnAprvI/AAAAAAAAGp0/KJdPIxR86QAow29u2WymA8_xZlLiUiZTQCLcBGAsYHQ/s1600/cesky-krumlov-schwarzenberg-coat-of-arms.jpg" title="Cesky Krumlov Schwarzenberg Coat of Arms" width="100%" /></div>
<br />
After lunch we had a few free hours to explore the town on our own. Our guide suggested a visit to St. Vitus Church, the other emblematic location in Cesky Krumlov (I was denied entry because my shorts were too short!).
<br />
<br />
We spent our time exploring the backstreets of the Latrán district looking for one of a kind souvenirs and sampling Czech savouries and sweets until we reunited with our guide back at the castle gate as the sun was setting.
<br />
<br />
Although I might have liked to spent longer in Cesky Krumlov (our guide told us many people travel to Cesky Krumlov and spend a few nights there) if you have time constraints I think 1 day is enough to see the best the town has to offer. I consider Cesky Krumlov a 'must do' on every tourist's itinerary in the Czech Republic, offering something wholly different to any other part of Central Europe I have seen before.
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-size: 0; text-align: center;">
<img alt="Cesky Krumlov Painted Walls Rozenberg Horse House" border="0" height="100%" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-HYc9hn1gG-Y/XirSK2dKflI/AAAAAAAAGp8/8E04GroF9W4NrtAcdAnSRwhwJoGrheRXQCLcBGAsYHQ/s1600/cesky-krumlov-rozenberg-horse-house.jpg" title="Cesky Krumlov Rozenberg Horse House" width="100%" /></div>
Carlitahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10533463740017757079noreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7540078356544900927.post-84487550130539161792019-11-13T23:27:00.003-08:002020-10-29T00:06:06.962-07:007 Unforgettable Days in Prague (the 'BEST OF' Prague Tourism)<i>The capital of the Czech Republic, Prague is also the cultural, social and economic hub of the entirety of Central Europe.</i><br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-size: 0; text-align: center;">
<img alt="prague charles bridge" border="0" height="100%" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-qT5DPmF_LBk/Xcz0mUBjOCI/AAAAAAAAGlQ/yxX7B7Jp2rgC4tuc-WJkibCP49DQtfhCgCLcBGAsYHQ/s1600/prague-charles-bridge.jpg" title="prague" width="100%" /></div>
<br />
Following our stay in Krakow we thought it only natural to head west and visit the city I had been most anticipating since I began planning this trip. Not knowing a lot about Prague nor the Czech Republic we dived in head first and booked a weeklong stay in the heart of the capital.
<br />
<br />
<a name='more'></a>Hindered by a few diversions and delays in our flights we arrived in Prague at nightfall. As we headed towards the city I could feel the heat licking my face as I turned my window up and our cabbie advised us we were in the midst of a heavy summer season. Evermore grateful for our pre-cooled hotel room; I gazed out of our full length windows to the gushing Vltava River below with excitement swirling in my mind for what lay ahead over the next week.
<br />
<br />
Well rested and stomachs empty we made it our first mission the next day to sample the local cuisine. Sliding into a semi-crowded restaurant with English menus around the corner of our hotel I asked for the most "Czech" thing on the menu. Our waitress obliged and suggested the <i>svíčková na smetaně</i>. A plate brimming with gravy, bread dumplings, sirloin steak and cranberry appeared in front of me. Impressed with the way the flavours and textures complemented each other I knew I'd be enjoying this dish at least one more time in the following week.
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-size: 0; text-align: center;">
<img alt="svíčková na smetaně czech cuisine" border="0" height="100%" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Lc5E1MEk3pw/Xcz0pd7_eNI/AAAAAAAAGlU/-AvBvSkjzCEkYBccLwN2T4BDCWOwOQmEQCLcBGAsYHQ/s1600/czech-cuisine-svickova-na-smetane.jpg" title="svíčková na smetaně" width="100%" /></div>
<br />
Stomachs full and bouncing with energy we decided to take a stroll over Charles Bridge, one of the most outstanding features of the city. With baroque statues lining the turf of cobble stones beneath our feet we took our time strolling the 515 metre expanse. Sliding in and out of the crowds we spotted ensembles of musicians and seated artists ready to paint the passing patrons. Although still relatively early in the day we found it already brimming with tourists and made a resolution to cross it again later in the evening for a better photo op.
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-size: 0; text-align: center;">
<img alt="prague charles bridge vltava river" border="0" height="100%" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-pPUWUvHlkvA/Xcz0sZ2NgKI/AAAAAAAAGlY/eSqiOYmxZbcgl1I6oqAySPpUCc1Ff1h6gCLcBGAsYHQ/s1600/charles-bridge-prague.jpg" title="prague charles bridge" width="100%" /></div>
<br />
Winding in and out of narrow avenues and alleys we aimlessly but mindfully meandered past charming buildings, museums, and cafes with sweet smells wafting out of their entrances. Somehow, but not exactly meaning to, we stumbled into <i> Staromák</i>, or the Old Town Square. Like an old fairytale straight out of a postcard we took in the sights and sounds of possibly one of the most exquisite old town centres of Europe. Each building was illuminated with bright colours and splashed with meticulous illustrations and engravings. Most fascinating was the Astronomical Clock which we were told was the oldest clock in the world still operating.
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-size: 0; text-align: center;">
<img alt="prague old town facade" border="0" height="100%" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-lali9st7__U/Xcz0v_-mRrI/AAAAAAAAGlc/9htjEnZ7LjYti9V6ZzfVSePyAhn6kb9YgCLcBGAsYHQ/s1600/prague-old-town-facade.jpg" title="prague old town" width="100%" /></div>
<br />
Craving cultural enrichment, we were flushed for choice when contemplating a museum to visit. There were at least 15 in our immediate vicinity but spotting the familiar names of Dali, Warhol and Mucha in the Central Gallery we decided we needed a reprieve from the sweltering heat and humidity outside.
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-size: 0; text-align: center;">
<img alt="prague museum gerhard richter" border="0" height="100%" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-LNeBkMDEiwY/Xcz0y7o_bMI/AAAAAAAAGlg/BJS_DN1KqQIzHmC7k0BNywmZZ9_JruGEwCLcBGAsYHQ/s1600/prague-museum.jpg" title="prague museum" width="100%" /></div>
<br />
Deciding to take a leisurely walk by the riverside and a little further out of the Old Town Square we found ourselves in a marginally more "modernist" part of the city where more modern buildings dominated the boulevard. Hugging the intersection between the city centre and the outer boundaries we spotted the Dancing House in the distance. Controversial at its time of construction in 1992 because of its contrast to the surrounding baroque and gothic architecture, it is now a cultural symbol of Prague. Starkly contrasted to the buildings we had seen earlier in the day I found it a refreshing contrast between tradition and the creep of modern time.
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-size: 0; text-align: center;">
<img alt="prague dancing house fred and ginger" border="0" height="100%" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-8vrmCpfCmvU/Xcz010jcFcI/AAAAAAAAGlk/Bby7H9hKzIEYkBS1P7yivtTpPfKa1nf2ACLcBGAsYHQ/s1600/dancing-house-prague.jpg" title="prague dancing house" width="100%" /></div>
<br />
Around the corner of our hotel in <i>Malá Strana</i> we walked past the enormous St Nicholas Baroque church with a small crowd of people congregated outside. After paying a small entrance fee I walked into the church and wandered down its grandiose hall admiring the imposing effigies and adornments of the interior.
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-size: 0; text-align: center;">
<img alt="prague church st nicholas" border="0" height="100%" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-YvAdi6WnruM/Xcz05dToJbI/AAAAAAAAGls/4jslrpOfmZsJdhr_17dFLkvtlWbzB_2eQCLcBGAsYHQ/s1600/st-nicholas-prague.jpg" title="prague church" width="100%" /></div>
<br />
Staring up at the tallest section of the church, I was in awe of the fresco inside the dome that stood 70 metres above my head.
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-size: 0; text-align: center;">
<img alt="prague church st nicholas dome" border="0" height="100%" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-YgNtwkXPAOE/Xcz08cjgGpI/AAAAAAAAGlw/c7BvE-bFNQUFLtA8P4xilzGQ9NEIw8sSgCLcBGAsYHQ/s1600/st-nicholas-dome-prague.jpg" title="prague church" width="100%" /></div>
<br />
We decided to spend one day exploring the <i>Malá Strana</i> district of Prague, which is on the opposite side of the river of the Old Town. Home to the Royal Complex, this district housed the bourgeois which is evident by its magnificent architecture as you wander its narrow streets and wide squares.
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-size: 0; text-align: center;">
<img alt="prague mala strana malostranské náměstí square" border="0" height="100%" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-BhklpSXai3s/Xcz0_n1tAEI/AAAAAAAAGl0/iCpLLnODzYMTldvdXAhq6dTyjPMdDkwugCLcBGAsYHQ/s1600/mala-strana-prague.jpg" title="prague mala strana" width="100%" /></div>
<br />
Without needing a map I climbed the streets of the district until I reached the Castle Complex of the city. Housing not only the Royal Palace, the fortification has a Basilica, Golden Lane and St Vitus Cathedral. I bought my ticket to enter the complex and made my way first to the Cathedral to admire the stained glass windows. After waiting half an hour to enter the Cathedral I weaved my way through the swarms of tourists to get a central view of one of the windows that caught my eye. The stained glass took my breath away as I stood in front of each window for a few minutes engrossed by its beauty and intricacy.
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-size: 0; text-align: center;">
<img alt="st vitus cathedral prague stained glass window" border="0" height="100%" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-XRuz3Kg8JuY/Xcz1Cpq6oeI/AAAAAAAAGl4/wLG3iA-OZ2kIiIPqxLvQcU94EP84Qw5qwCLcBGAsYHQ/s1600/st-vitus-stained-glass-window.jpg" title="st vitus cathedral prague" width="100%" /></div>
<br />
After spending a few hours exploring the grounds of the complex I took a rest in the gardens outside and admired the vista that surrounded the hill below me. Completely and utterly impressed by everything I had experienced in this city in the past few days I made a promise to myself that I would be revisiting this remarkable city many more times in the future.
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-size: 0; text-align: center;">
<img alt="prague panorama" border="0" height="100%" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-J8f0cfl4NUw/Xcz1FvaVAsI/AAAAAAAAGmA/qZW1rKRYFBkpcmNak6NqtF6FW93mRp3YwCLcBGAsYHQ/s1600/prague-panorama.jpg" title="prague" width="100%" /></div>
Carlitahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10533463740017757079noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7540078356544900927.post-61072134979342879432019-10-07T01:31:00.006-07:002020-11-13T06:01:38.051-08:00How to Visit Poland's Mysterious Salt Mine Wieliczka (+ Krakow Old Town Guide)<i>After a few days in the Official Capital, we made our way to the Royal Capital Krakow.</i><br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-size: 0; text-align: center;">
<img alt="krakow wieliczka salt mine" border="0" height="100%" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-or8w2gRJ6cQ/XZeAstVEIeI/AAAAAAAAGiE/bxaI1wzOvnsKpc8Xg3Iyz9TB1SBp1tfxQCLcBGAsYHQ/s1600/krakow-gold-dome.jpg" title="krakow wieliczka" width="100%" /></div>
<br />
Continuing our journey south through Central Europe we thought it only natural to visit the cultural centre of Poland. But it wasn't just Krakow that motivated us to linger in Poland a few days longer. One of our family friends (and hosts in Krakow) told us of one of Poland's greatest cultural treasures that not so many outsiders are familiar of, the Wieliczka Salt Mine and the extravagant St Kinga's Chapel roughly 330 feet underground.
<br />
<br />
<a name='more'></a>
After settling into our hotel on the outskirts of the Old Town we decided to spend the rest of the day wandering the streets of the central district. Scattered around the lively market square (which we were told is the largest medieval market square in Europe!) were vendors selling a braided circular bread sprinkled with a selection of seeds or salt. Officially called <i>obwarzanek krakowski</i> and the culinary symbol of the city, our host told us she called these confections "school bread" in her youth because it was a cheap and easy snack she and her contemporaries ate on their way to school.
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-size: 0; text-align: center;">
<img alt="krakow bagel obwarzanek krakowski" border="0" height="100%" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-0xDMTiJ18vk/XZeAwWJJpBI/AAAAAAAAGiI/8VE6sX1aQpYkpl1wr5tOI24qFv6-c7PfACLcBGAsYHQ/s1600/krakow-bagel-obwarzanek-krakowski.jpg" title="krakow bagel" width="100%" /></div>
<br />
The next morning we visited the Wieliczka Salt Mine. Only 30 minutes from the Market Square, we found ourselves standing outside an unassuming building behind a couple of hundred other tourists slowly edging towards the entrance in groups of twenty at a time.
<br />
<br />
Finally at the entrance, we began our descent by foot to what we were told would reach 135 metres below ground.
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-size: 0; text-align: center;">
<img alt="wieliczka salt mine tunnels" border="0" height="100%" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-5nPRx8C2eRI/XZeAzd_x8mI/AAAAAAAAGiM/iDLYxblotroxmWVYQRMIAg5qXKC87srcACLcBGAsYHQ/s1600/wieliczka-mine-tunnel.jpg" title="wieliczka" width="100%" /></div>
<br />
Our subterranean journey took us not only through narrow passages and lofty chambers with drops of 50 metres into the darkness below, we also meandered past dazzling salt statues sculpted by the miners.
<br />
<br />
Narrating stories of Polish folklore, one particular chamber that caught my eye narrated the legend of the Hungarian Princess Kinga that threw her engagement ring into a mine that subsequently brought salt plentifully into Poland. The Janowice Chamber depicted the scene depicted of the miners giving back the ring to the princess and was carved in the 17th century.
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-size: 0; text-align: center;">
<img alt="wieliczka salt mine statues" border="0" height="100%" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-UEVoWnLtvc8/XZeA2JhkWLI/AAAAAAAAGiQ/wC88mu5Obl0rtkZXy23TfvvCWfgrZ5IugCLcBGAsYHQ/s1600/wieliczka-salt-mine-statues.jpg" title="wieliczka salt mine" width="100%" /></div>
<br />
An exceptonally religious country, we lingered in a few cavities and chapels amidst religious effigies. A select few of these figures were created by wood and our tour guide told us if brought to surface they would disintegrate because of the air differences underground.
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-size: 0; text-align: center;">
<img alt="wieliczka salt mine church" border="0" height="100%" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-eBXyJi8QH8o/XZeA4hFbjyI/AAAAAAAAGiU/Z_arplTGa1A1pxyQ3W_gujhVIvZG5lQfQCLcBGAsYHQ/s1600/wieliczka-salt-mine-church.jpg" title="wieliczka church" width="100%" /></div>
<br />
Finally we arrived at the heart of our journey - the St Kingas Chapel that has played host to some of Poland's most significant cultural events, weekly masses and the occasional wedding. A breathtaking fissure illuminated by the warm glow of chandeliers overhead, the intricately carved floors and walls dazzled as I descended toward the heart of the chamber.
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-size: 0; text-align: center;">
<img alt="wieliczka chapel st kinga" border="0" height="100%" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-rx4m_AZD4S0/XZeA7rVZYhI/AAAAAAAAGiY/myrYPwAfp4QLlyzJSHCUqMnHTLxxXPNRwCLcBGAsYHQ/s1600/wieliczka-chapel-st-kinga.jpg" title="wieliczka chapel" width="100%" /></div>
<br />
Comfortably holding up to 400 people the chapel took almost 70 years to construct, completed in 1964. As I meandered closer to the centre of the room our guide expressed to us that everything inside the chapel, from the chandeliers to the intricately carved floor that lay beneath us, was made from rock salt crystals.
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-size: 0; text-align: center;">
<img alt="wieliczka chapel st kinga" border="0" height="100%" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-lm7P2Qv1Gp8/XZeA_YZ6YNI/AAAAAAAAGic/RCuCECcxwqQqa1S_IX28RU0J2gopbM35QCLcBGAsYHQ/s1600/wieliczka-chapel.jpg" title="wieliczka chapel" width="100%" /></div>
<br />
I left our tour group to get a closer look at the frescos that adorned the walls. As a testament to the miners artistic ingenuity I couldn't peel my eyes away from the whittled walls that incorporated scenes from the Scriptures and even a replica of Da Vinci's Last Supper!
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-size: 0; text-align: center;">
<img alt="wieliczka chapel st kinga wall carvings" border="0" height="100%" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-O1tGrLqVOMk/XZeBDMC7SnI/AAAAAAAAGig/wMnXNNfpbJE0AM51rkmOi_oTNwY7PzsFgCLcBGAsYHQ/s1600/wieliczka-carving-wall.jpg" title="wieliczka chapel" width="100%" /></div>
<br />
The altar of St. Kinga that sits at the far end of the chapel was surrounded by worshippers silently praying. I slowly made my way to the edge of the altar to take a photo trying to attract as little attention towards myself as possible.
<br />
<br />
After half an hour our tour guide motioned for our group to meet him at the exit of the chapel. We made our way through the final branch of the mine which included a shimmering lake and dining hall. Not looking forward to climbing our way out of the mine the same way we had at the beginning of our journey (a 350 stair descent) I was pleasantly surprised when we were told it was a 30 second elevator ride to the surface.
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-size: 0; text-align: center;">
<img alt="wieliczka chapel st kinga" border="0" height="100%" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Xh0hgMYW-Xo/XZeBHm3dT_I/AAAAAAAAGis/9nX6Biv7ExQCVXByUJcGTvumGu2TPNAegCLcBGAsYHQ/s1600/wieliczka-salt-chapel-st-kinga.jpg" title="wieliczka chapel" width="100%" /></div>
<br />
We spent our final few days exploring the heart of Krakow. Our host implored us to visit the 900 year old Wawel Cathedral that towered over the city. Almost half a day we spent on Wawel Hill which houses various Royal complexes and medieval stone fortifications. My favourite part was the tour we took of the Crypt below the Cathedral which housed the tombs of Poland's most celebrated kings and national heroes. Not as glamorous as the cathedral above, I appreciated the history that surrounded me as I roamed the narrow passages of the crypt.
<br />
<br />
Not a large industrial megalopolis like Warsaw, Krakow is a city that can be appreciated by foot embodying the last cultural vestiges of a country that was flattened by destruction less than a century beforehand. What I liked the most about Krakow was that I could savour my time in a city that has not yet been touched by mass proliferation of chain stores and consumerization that most large cities in Western Europe have been devoured by.
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-size: 0; text-align: center;">
<img alt="wawel cathedral golden dome krakow" border="0" height="100%" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-kYIteX5Wv6Q/XZeBLvxVTqI/AAAAAAAAGi0/pPJt026vaMkfi8v_Kw5uNc96Q_5D41d7QCLcBGAsYHQ/s1600/wawel-cathedral-golden-dome-krakow.jpg" title="krakow wawel cathedral" width="100%" /></div>
Carlitahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10533463740017757079noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7540078356544900927.post-47447393178154510502018-10-09T11:17:00.004-07:002020-11-03T19:07:54.455-08:00Warsaw, The World's Youngest Old Town | Warsaw Things To Do<i>After being flattened by WWII devastation, Warsaw rose from the ashes and was bestowed the new title "Phoenix City"</i><br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-size: 0; text-align: center;">
<img alt="warsaw poland header" border="0" height="100%" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-QF0jc71SJ8k/W7zsaS6su4I/AAAAAAAAGeA/hseZ9j83qIE4KnBnJLveL7cE9CaQ0ZHQQCLcBGAs/s1600/0.jpg" title="warsaw poland" width="100%" /></div>
<br />
Once described as the most beautiful city in Europe, Warsaw was completely destroyed in WWII and then rebuilt using pre-war photographs and records. With meticulous precision reconstructing every shop, square and marketplace, it is now known as the World's Youngest Old Town.
<br />
<br />
<a name='more'></a>After touching down in Warsaw following a monster a 27 hour flight we decided the best way to get to know our new home for the next 72 hours was to go on an early morning walking tour covering the city centre.
<br />
<br />
<b><span style="color: black; font-family: "oswald" , sans-serif; font-size: 28px;">A ROYAL LEGEND EMERGES IN DOWNTOWN WARSAW</span></b>
<br />
<br />
We met our guide in the heart of Royal Castle Square. He explained to us what made Warsaw so unique in contrast to other great European Capitals. Bearing the brunt of WWII occupation, Warsaw was flattened by all opposing sides of the war. Almost all the structures in the old town are reconstructions based on pre-war photographs, and that is why Warsaw is often referred to as the world's "youngest old town".
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-size: 0; text-align: center;">
<img alt="sigismnds column warsaw poland" border="0" height="100%" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ILFZs1wG-RQ/W7zschrC7II/AAAAAAAAGeE/9HwDL3-WI5UlYbTkI7l2CGQFxczAL1LSwCLcBGAs/s1600/1.jpg" title="sigismnds column" width="100%" /></div>
<br />
Of particular significance was a legend surrounding the statue on top of Sigismund's Column which states that if the King's sword were to fall then disaster was coming. The statue did fall during WWII however it survived the fall and was placed back on top of a new column.
<br />
<br />
<b><span style="color: black; font-family: "oswald" , sans-serif; font-size: 28px;">A SWEDISH CONNECTION IN ARISTOCRATIC FASHION</span></b>
<br />
<br />
Behind Sigismund's Column we walked to the interior of the Royal Castle. What made Warsaw Castle so special was that signified the period of time that King Sigismund transferred the capital from Krakow to Warsaw making Warsaw the most significant city in Poland. In homage to his Swedish heritage, the King built half the castle in Swedish style (as seen on the right hand side below) and the rest of the castle in typical Polish fashion.
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-size: 0; text-align: center;">
<img alt="royal castle warsaw" border="0" height="100%" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-XfHEWIxm08s/W7zsfJl7JDI/AAAAAAAAGeI/6-_0wX_dEnwGm-KdPWy_dJwXGrIgCIcWACLcBGAs/s1600/2.jpg" title="royal castle warsaw" width="100%" /></div>
<br />
<b><span style="color: black; font-family: "oswald" , sans-serif; font-size: 28px;">MODERN DAY ANTIQUITIES</span></b>
<br />
<br />
Our next stop was the St. John's Archcathedral of Warsaw which is unique in the respect that it was one of the only cities in the old town that was not built using pre-war photographs but rather illustrations of its 14th century appearance.
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-size: 0; text-align: center;">
<img alt="St. John's Archcathedral of Warsaw architecture" border="0" height="100%" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-W0uzwcr92EQ/W7zsiPZCMMI/AAAAAAAAGeM/ZfAAU1JLr_owVJioccD7HBCXk9Q3OiVZACLcBGAs/s1600/3.jpg" title="St. John's Archcathedral of Warsaw" width="100%" /></div>
<br />
<b><span style="color: black; font-family: "oswald" , sans-serif; font-size: 28px;">LEGENDARY OBSCURITIES AROUND EVERY CORNER</span></b>
<br />
<br />
Hidden in a little courtyard surrounded by brightly coloured houses sits a bronze bell called the Wishing Bell of Warsaw. According to folklore, if you rub the bell and hop around it 3 times on one leg your wish will come true.
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-size: 0; text-align: center;">
<img alt="Wishing Bell of Warsaw Poland" border="0" height="100%" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-BSyWkFDEMj4/W7zskXGdT3I/AAAAAAAAGeQ/Rov6hFTyp6EphEk9BMLzOxNhsaiTF1ItACLcBGAs/s1600/4.jpg" title="Wishing Bell of Warsaw" width="100%" /></div>
<br />
<b><span style="color: black; font-family: "oswald" , sans-serif; font-size: 28px;">A MARKET SQUARE WORTH THE PIT STOP</span></b>
<br />
<br />
We made our way to the Old Town Market Square, which sits at the heart of Warsaw. After being destroyed by the German Army, it has been restored to its former glory with a wealth of beautiful architecture and charming cafes, shops and restaurants surrounding the square.
<br />
<br />
Although the Old Town Market Square is the epicentre of tourist activities, the prices here are very fair for a tourist district and you can find food and souvenirs for decent prices.
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-size: 0; text-align: center;">
<img alt="Old Town Market Square Warsaw Poland" border="0" height="100%" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-X5uM-nXYOM4/W7zsmmd7k2I/AAAAAAAAGeU/Aa0YSZEm43sROiYZWdScVb1owfLJI5o8gCLcBGAs/s1600/5.jpg" title="Old Town Market Square Warsaw" width="100%" /></div>
<br />
<b><span style="color: black; font-family: "oswald" , sans-serif; font-size: 28px;">PECULIAR PATTERNS</span></b>
<br />
<br />
We moved into an alley just off the Market Square and our guide pointed out some peculiarities that cover the facades of the buildings around the city centre.
<br />
<br />
Engraved on a number of buildings are colourful scenes depicting various activities - such as theatrical performances, food and various products. This is a practice that has happened for centuries in Warsaw so the illiterate could find a shop or service they needed.
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-size: 0; text-align: center;">
<img alt="Warsaw architecture building facade" border="0" height="100%" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-L5W8EjjHSd0/W7zso_XGl8I/AAAAAAAAGeY/peRRteM4rlgngEQyzjbDw8RtYCfHTGO7gCLcBGAs/s1600/6.jpg" title="Warsaw building facade" width="100%" /></div>
<br />
<b><span style="color: black; font-family: "oswald" , sans-serif; font-size: 28px;">ARCHAIC ARCHITECTURE WITH A STORY AS BEAUTIFUL AS ITS PAST</span></b>
<br />
<br />
We made our way to the outskirts of the Old Town where the Barbican and City Walls of Warsaw were located. Built in the 14th century for defence purposes, its a fascinating insight into how the city protected itself in the Middle Ages.
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-size: 0; text-align: center;">
<img alt="Barbican and City Walls of Warsaw Poland" border="0" height="100%" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-HDFqKEDaHO0/W7zsr1KDsYI/AAAAAAAAGeg/uYKIGfajfb0l5yPTnfBnONmR7qiHSTXGQCLcBGAs/s1600/7.jpg" title="Barbican and City Walls of Warsaw" width="100%" /></div>
<br />
<b><span style="color: black; font-family: "oswald" , sans-serif; font-size: 28px;">AN EASTER EGG FOR HISTORY BUFFS</span></b>
<br />
<br />
Just a stones throw away from the Barbican is the birthplace of Marie Curie which also doubles as a museum dedicated to her life and scientific discoveries. For history lovers this is a modest yet fascinating museum showcasing Ms Curie's lifetime achievements.
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-size: 0; text-align: center;">
<img alt="birthplace of Marie Curie Warsaw" border="0" height="100%" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-P5KqWsZoKn0/W7zst_4MMoI/AAAAAAAAGek/6czrovjmpfwn3rMRoiHnkIYlJxEq7Mc0wCLcBGAs/s1600/8.jpg" title="birthplace of Marie Curie " width="100%" /></div>
<br />
<b><span style="color: black; font-family: "oswald" , sans-serif; font-size: 28px;">...BUT WE SHALL NEVER FORGET THE PAST</span></b>
<br />
<br />
Not only did Poland suffer the highest impact from WWII destruction, but Warsaw became a fragmented city where its citizens were split on ethnic boundaries. 11 miles of 10 foot high brick walls was built around the Jewish quarter of the city marking the Jewish Ghetto. Although it has now been reduced to a marking on the floor, it is a poignant memorial and an important piece of history to remind us to not so quickly forget the wrongs of the past.
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-size: 0; text-align: center;">
<img alt="Jewish Ghetto markers warsaw on ground" border="0" height="100%" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-vTVElAtxcMI/W7zswlg3ZOI/AAAAAAAAGeo/8cp5lKNemi8pPOCl8duy7rNTrEW9aAjcQCLcBGAs/s1600/9.jpg" title="Jewish Ghetto markers warsaw" width="100%" /></div>
<br />
<b><span style="color: black; font-family: "oswald" , sans-serif; font-size: 28px;">MODERN DAY EDIFICE INCARNATE</span></b>
<br />
<br />
Around the corner from the ghetto wall marker was the Supreme Court of Poland. Rich in symbolism, we roamed around the back corner of the Court past three elegant caryatids symbolising the qualities of faith, love and hope. Physically used as pillars to uphold the building, these are qualities that are today held in Polish law and society.
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-size: 0; text-align: center;">
<img alt="Supreme Court of Poland caryatid statues" border="0" height="100%" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Mdx5H7Iqw_A/W7zszWXrOdI/AAAAAAAAGew/HywbVaMuzZ0cnrm9XJYlm3UDEp5guA7FACLcBGAs/s1600/10.jpg" title="Supreme Court of Poland" width="100%" /></div>
<br />
<b><span style="color: black; font-family: "oswald" , sans-serif; font-size: 28px;">A NEW PILLAR OF SOCIETY SHINING A BRIGHT LIGHT INTO THE FUTURE</span></b>
<br />
<br />
Surrounding the entire court are jade coloured colonnades adorned with the symbol of balance at the top of each column. Some of the colonnades were partially constructed (as seen below) to symbolise a past, present and future that is imperfect.
<br />
<br />
Whether you are an architecture enthusiast or just a casual observer, the Supreme Court and what it represents was one of my personal favourite in Warsaw.
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-size: 0; text-align: center;">
<img alt="Warsaw Supreme Court colonnade" border="0" height="100%" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-oZb_RzhdhX4/W7zs1CprZCI/AAAAAAAAGe4/9BMYGIkQbLYOHsP0HOybSCmVopOBqWsogCLcBGAs/s1600/11.jpg" title="Warsaw Supreme Court colonnade" width="100%" /></div>
<br />
<b><span style="color: black; font-family: "oswald" , sans-serif; font-size: 28px;">A SOCIETY FORTHCOMING</span></b>
<br />
<br />
Our final pitstop was one of the most visited monuments in Warsaw dedicated to the Warsaw Uprising. An underground resistance with the objective to overthrow German occupation in Warsaw and assert Polish liberty. Lasting 63 days, German forces eventually retreated from the city when Soviet forces advanced into the city.
<br />
<br />
Communistic in style, the monument is a moving tribute to the Polish citizens that helped Poland survive as a nation
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-size: 0; text-align: center;">
<img alt="Warsaw Uprising monument Poland" border="0" height="100%" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-R-k33XBMJGw/W7zs3pm8jeI/AAAAAAAAGe8/5w7DOmpaHv09gJA_DyyXTMcS2VzX8qYdgCLcBGAs/s1600/12.jpg" title="Warsaw Uprising monument" width="100%" /></div>
<br />
That night we climbed the Palace of Culture and Science which doubles as an observation deck of the city skyline. As I admired the horizon of the city I had just spent less than 24 hours in, I reflected on what our guide had taught us about Warsaw today. Although Warsaw was utterly decimated in WWII and only part of the city had been reconstructed, what made Warsaw such a compelling destination to visit was the history teeming from every corner and crevice of the city. It is a young city, but brimming with history in every corner and crevice.
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-size: 0; text-align: center;">
<img alt="Warsaw skyline from the Palace of Culture and Science " border="0" height="100%" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/--zeAQvXlW9A/W7zs7VplMGI/AAAAAAAAGfE/Pa_52EOdwiAIRlcbbMG2DD5kICMyc34LQCLcBGAs/s1600/13.gif" title="Warsaw skyline" width="100%" /></div>
<br />
<span style="font-size: xx-small;">Image attribution:</span><br />
<span style="font-size: xx-small;"><a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/59882593@N05/7890544966/" target="_blank">"Warsaw"</a> by <a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/59882593@N05/" target="_blank">Gabriela Fab</a> // <a href="https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/2.0/" target="_blank">CC BY-SA 2.0</a> *</span>
<br />
<span style="font-size: xx-small;">* changes were made to the original materials</span>
Carlitahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10533463740017757079noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7540078356544900927.post-82387520913670787232017-10-30T10:20:00.002-07:002020-10-28T02:13:53.298-07:00Sepia Restaurant - Australia's Best Restaurant (Terrific Review)<i>Sweeping three hats consistently since 2012, I finally had the opportunity to dine at Sydney's Sepia.</i><br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-size: 0; text-align: center;">
<img alt="sepia australias best restaurant" border="0" height="100%" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Ixm8eUNaGHM/WgBG7PVpSPI/AAAAAAAAGUg/cHnycpX33IAWLj7YyznRXxNW4UYZ1Q-DQCLcBGAs/s1600/0.jpg" title="sepia australia" width="100%" /></div>
<br />
After its meteoric rise to fame since opening in 2009, Sepia had been on my radar for quite some time. Since announcing their closure and relocation to Melbourne 6 months ago, I decided I must visit before they shut their doors forever.
<br />
<br />
<a name='more'></a>With my birthday around the corner I found the perfect opportunity to make that visit.
<br />
<br />
We arrived at 18:30 and was ushered to our seats for the first round of dinner service. After ordering a champagne cocktail (bubbles for celebrations!) our server told us the dinner was a "blind tasting" and we would be given a menu at the end of service to take home. Intrigued, we excitedly anticipated our first "mystery" dish. Five small plates materialised in front of me - saikou salmon, bonito, sweet shrimp, nori tuna, eggplant tofu - we were off to a good start.
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-size: 0; text-align: center;">
<img alt="sepia saikou salmon bonito sweet shrimp nori tuna eggplant tofu" border="0" height="100%" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Ofy_WhaVWNo/WgBG9qpjT1I/AAAAAAAAGUk/KzMQ2L1qiS8mE89_WgHSN-SiFI15WiOSACLcBGAs/s1600/1.jpg" title="sepia food" width="100%" /></div>
<br />
A quaint dish decorated with edible blossoms, I savoured every bit of the egg yolk concealed inside its rich tuna skin. With just a hint of wasabi and soy sauce, it was the perfect combination.
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-size: 0; text-align: center;">
<img alt="sepia tuna egg wasabi white cheese" border="0" height="100%" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-vRie3Yj1QYM/WgBG_qr5KwI/AAAAAAAAGUo/VyLIgAnzPBIlTuQqoXk4pepcyPsaGfWbwCLcBGAs/s1600/2.jpg" title="sepia" width="100%" /></div>
<br />
Our next course of spanner crab, tomato, brown butter emulsion turned into a performance when our server sprinkled sake vinegar jelly pea and horseradish powder onto the dish (if only I had been fast enough to capture the moment).
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-size: 0; text-align: center;">
<img alt="sepia spanner crab tomato brown butter emulsion sake vinegar jelly pea and horseradish" border="0" height="100%" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-a0oS7b8-9iA/WgBHBfCWPSI/AAAAAAAAGUs/KURmrcF1zx4RMnAFvW91SQJaCy58hChQwCLcBGAs/s1600/3.jpg" title="sepia" width="100%" /></div>
<br />
The next course was abalone, chicken skin, roast onion, sweet onion dashi and daikon. With a creamy foam covering half the dish I found it hard to recognise half of what I was eating but it didn't make me enjoy the dish any less.
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-size: 0; text-align: center;">
<img alt="sepia abalone chicken skin roast onion sweet onion dashi and daikon" border="0" height="100%" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-MdjWGQdhu0U/WgBHD-umuSI/AAAAAAAAGUw/8iHgzjGRGw0kgW5ARdGKLc5kY1wOJuyiwCLcBGAs/s1600/4.jpg" title="sepia" width="100%" /></div>
<br />
This one was one of my favourite, I'm a big fan of sea urchin. With the addition of rolled egg, egg rice, nori and sobacha it was an explosion of taste and everything I expected it to be.
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-size: 0; text-align: center;">
<img alt="sepia sea urchin uni sobacha egg rice tamago dashimaki" border="0" height="100%" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-pE8A8-3-s7I/WgBHGMpMWAI/AAAAAAAAGU0/KseOZDhIMFsZNFmtAKVqAa9-eEnsj5k6QCLcBGAs/s1600/5.jpg" title="sepia" width="100%" /></div>
<br />
The final appetiser dish was an interesting one - it looked like sushi and fatty tuna but actually was fried milk bread, smoked bone marrow, horseradish and topped with caviar. It was the perfect concoction of flavours and I only wish they had been a little more generous with the fried milk bread.
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-size: 0; text-align: center;">
<img alt="sepia fried milk bread smoked bone marrow caviar horseradish" border="0" height="100%" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-3s6MHUHPwks/WgBHIl3aB5I/AAAAAAAAGU4/DNz5QRwjREYharQBogxCIZrH0-eJ21ZvQCLcBGAs/s1600/6.jpg" title="sepia" width="100%" /></div>
<br />
Our first main course was my favourite out of the two. Grilled lamb breast, nameko mushroom, roasted garlic and miso emulsion buckwheat it was perfectly presented in a hemisphere of goodness.
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-size: 0; text-align: center;">
<img alt="sepia grilled lamb breast nameko mushroom roasted garlic and miso emulsion buckwheat" border="0" height="100%" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-eA2qLTWTXNg/WgBHLCTNWlI/AAAAAAAAGU8/rPQEtwoCGA8ckzPkxfeBMioJHiw6UdBygCLcBGAs/s1600/7.jpg" title="sepia" width="100%" /></div>
<br />
A bleeding red delectable masterpiece, the seared venison, nori, honina kabu, blackcurrant and beetroot was a feast for my eyes. Although I did prefer the previous main, the venision melted in my mouth and paired perfectly with its sweet condiments.
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-size: 0; text-align: center;">
<img alt="sepia seared venison, nori, honina kabu, blackcurrant and beetroot" border="0" height="100%" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-SdhaYjvxhKQ/WgBHNrQdggI/AAAAAAAAGVA/uYqip9E_8Ms1dtUSdVjtSYlm2MyI0FiOACLcBGAs/s1600/8.jpg" title="sepia" width="100%" /></div>
<br />
Since we enjoyed our previous dishes so much we opted to include the optional cheese course. Aerated mountain man washed rind topped with apple and sobacha biscuit, it sounded fascinating (especially the aerated cheese). It definitely lived up to my expectations, the biscuit was a perfect combination with the mellow cheese and slightly sour apple.
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-size: 0; text-align: center;">
<img alt="sepia Aerated mountain man washed rind apple and sobacha biscuit" border="0" height="100%" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-TH7mK851CQU/WgBHQNcPYTI/AAAAAAAAGVE/J6ciGiHVFxsr2RZU6ghctpIwGH0hnDhOgCLcBGAs/s1600/9.jpg" title="sepia " width="100%" /></div>
<br />
Our first dessert dish didn't quite stand out to me, but oh boy was I wrong. The jelly made from seven different types of citrus flavours and a scoop of sorbet really got my tastebuds firing. Moral of the story? Don't judge a dish by its presentation.
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-size: 0; text-align: center;">
<img alt="sepia citrus orange jelly and sorbet" border="0" height="100%" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-NJ_OqJACtco/WgBHStpEXtI/AAAAAAAAGVI/BS5nTi9Of105M2xh0xf8uuoZpzPRcEYOQCLcBGAs/s1600/10.jpg" title="sepia" width="100%" /></div>
<br />
Our final course was the classic spring chocolate forest. Famous on instagram, I patiently anticipated this course my entire meal. Just like a miniature forest capped with blackberry sorbet, every mouthful was simply breathtaking. Totally worth the wait.
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-size: 0; text-align: center;">
<img alt="sepia spring chocolate forest" border="0" height="100%" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-CtXH2WJxm4k/WgBHVBRF9mI/AAAAAAAAGVM/Iypc5aVr9coXhpBSZo3STurrlE9T4eIlwCLcBGAs/s1600/11.jpg" title="sepia" width="100%" /></div>
<br />
Sadly it was time to say our goodbyes to our outstanding dining experience in Sepia, but not without a parting gift - our menu. Sepia offers more than just a meal, it is an entire journey starting with the friendly staff that greet you at the door right down to the precision required in plating every dish that I would very gladly return to (Melbourne trip next time?).
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-size: 0; text-align: center;">
<img alt="sepia menu" border="0" height="100%" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-jHhDGpB6J5U/WgBHXlY-FqI/AAAAAAAAGVQ/KNYRt7sG11oA6fbWNzz4FOO4IzPWSjcMwCLcBGAs/s1600/12.jpg" title="sepia" width="100%" /></div>
Carlitahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10533463740017757079noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7540078356544900927.post-58978949847602546422017-09-26T01:18:00.002-07:002020-10-29T00:24:08.571-07:00Vietnamese Food Guide : 25 Mouthwatering Dishes You Won't Want To Miss<i>Vietnamese cuisine is renowned for its fresh ingredients with a strong harmony of textures, produce and distinctive flavours, making it one of the healthiest in the world.</i><br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-size: 0; text-align: center;">
<img alt="vietnamese food guide" border="0" height="100%" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-br70gYPMelw/WdD18OeBswI/AAAAAAAAGFU/7RoepqMb_CknOAVVaRpZO80IbzvuDrKRQCLcBGAs/s1600/0.jpg" title="vietnamese food guide" width="100%" /></div>
<br />
Before visiting Vietnam, the only thing I knew about Vietnamese cuisine was pho and those tasty bread rolls slathered with pate, chilli and soy sauce (now I can call them by their proper name, <i>Banh Mi</i>).
<br />
<br />
<a name='more'></a>After spending a month trotting Vietnam from top to bottom I think I can safely say I've become <i>somewhat</i> acquainted with Vietnamese cuisine and its many regional variants. So I've decided to make a guide to show you the best Vietnamese food I ate on my trip and exactly where to find it!
<br />
<br />
<h3>
<b><span style="color: black; font-family: "oswald" , sans-serif; font-size: 28px;">STREET FOOD AND MARKETS</span></b></h3>
<br />
Wander down any winding street in Hanoi and you will find an abundance of street food stalls selling hot snacks to excite your tastebuds. <i>Banh Tom Ho Tay</i> was my favourite discovery. Roughly translated as West Lake Shrimp Cake, it is exactly what it sounds like - crispy deep fried potato and flour shrimp cake. For $3 we got a brown paper bag full of them freshly prepared on the spot.
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-size: 0; text-align: center;">
<img alt="banh tom ho tay shrimp cake" border="0" height="100%" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Heq6xLajSUY/WdD1-LXf2rI/AAAAAAAAGFY/-CQtSDsnEwYcclebVxl76snMAiQNZSx4ACLcBGAs/s1600/1.jpg" title="banh tom ho tay" width="100%" /></div>
<br />
Hanoi's Old Quarter is famous for little old ladies standing on every corner selling these pastry goodies. They've acquired a bit of a bad reputation as a "tourist trap" for overcharging tourists and not returning proper change. While that is true, as long as you are wary when dealing with the donut mafia it doesn't mean you have to miss out. Personally I thought they were super sweet and tasty and worth trying at least once.
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-size: 0; text-align: center;">
<img alt="halong bay cruise boat" border="0" height="100%" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-wVjEXS86qxQ/WdD1_8VUq4I/AAAAAAAAGFc/n7_9ZG8SPsInowMa0b-11x6Z6ff4pxoJACLcBGAs/s1600/2.jpg" title="cruise boat" width="100%" /></div>
<br />
Everywhere in Vietnam (but especially the country side) vendors sell fresh coconuts on the side of the road. I found this especially convenient biking in Hoi An when I needed a rest and something refreshing. And for 50c a pop its a total bargain!
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-size: 0; text-align: center;">
<img alt="fresh coconut vietnam" border="0" height="100%" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-uzslkSYxlKw/WdD2B__SfJI/AAAAAAAAGFg/iqZaQmSpBygDzYr8dgbHpsRSqZQp1CcRQCLcBGAs/s1600/3.jpg" title="fresh coconut" width="100%" /></div>
<br />
Ben Thanh Market, the largest in Ho Chi Minh City, has an amazing street food market that operates during the day and opens into the street at night. For less than $5 I got a bowl of <i>Pho Bo</i> (beef noodle soup from Hanoi) and a big glass of fresh passionfruit juice. Made from bone broth, rice noodles, sliced beef, bean sprouts and basil pho is both refreshing and filling. As a staple of Vietnamese cuisine, you will find it in every single market and restaurant you wander into.
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-size: 0; text-align: center;">
<img alt="pho bo beef noodle soup vietnam" border="0" height="100%" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ZWzUYSjaz6g/WdD2F0pAg0I/AAAAAAAAGFk/7LwAZ8QlxcAAFA13t_aGaiiFhPhrCZLCwCLcBGAs/s1600/4.jpg" title="pho bo" width="100%" /></div>
<br />
For those a little more adventurous I often saw snake wine sold in markets throughout Vietnam. Declining to buy a bottle myself, I'm told it posses medicinal properties curing everything from hair loss to improving virility.
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-size: 0; text-align: center;">
<img alt="snake wine vietnam" border="0" height="100%" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-RM8ypbg0ebI/WdD2ILGk69I/AAAAAAAAGFo/_CWwIRlMg783xAtpBlkeK-OqvA3wCAbGwCLcBGAs/s1600/5.jpg" title="snake wine" width="100%" /></div>
<br />
<br />
<h3>
<b><span style="color: black; font-family: "oswald" , sans-serif; font-size: 28px;">RESTAURANTS</span></b></h3>
<br />
<i>Goi cuon</i> (fresh spring rolls) served with a side of <i>Nuoc Leo</i> (peanut sauce) are ubiquitous in Vietnam. I probably ate goi cuon every day as a side to my main meal in Vietnam. Made with shrimp, rice vermicelli, vegetables and pork wrapped in moistened rice paper, you will always be able to find goi cuon and its many variants anywhere in Vietnam.
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-size: 0; text-align: center;">
<img alt="goi cuon nuoc leo fresh spring rolls and peanut sauce" border="0" height="100%" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-mSd99wBANHQ/WdD2KlWHsNI/AAAAAAAAGFs/dwJ4W_6G24IhJPGW6V78lb7a-OMy726ZACLcBGAs/s1600/6.jpg" title="goi cuon nuoc leo" width="100%" /></div>
<br />
<i>Cha gio</i> are the deep fried counterpart to goi cuon. Made with a ground meat such as pork, it is rolled in moist rice paper and deep fried until golden brown and served with a side of <i>nuoc cham</i> dipping sauce.
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-size: 0; text-align: center;">
<img alt="cha gio nuoc cham deep fried spring rolls" border="0" height="100%" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-W_6OMl-JBPw/WdD2Mw1NgEI/AAAAAAAAGFw/jEQuhfsduQ44pNYmhsU2c4u32RT2-lgXwCLcBGAs/s1600/7.jpg" title="cha gio nuoc cham" width="100%" /></div>
<br />
<i>Banh Xeo</i> which literally means "sizzling cake" is a crispy crepe-ish rice-flour dish stuffed with shrimp, green onion and bean sprouts. Rolling up the crepe like a spring roll and dipping it into tangy nuoc cham sauce is the way its usually eaten (don't worry getting messy is all part of the process).
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-size: 0; text-align: center;">
<img alt="banh xeo sizzling pancake vietnamese" border="0" height="100%" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-1WSuBSVQAAg/WdD2Pg2QPlI/AAAAAAAAGF0/OZjExtqGi_w5N4cN2J2uXSqaDhTxG070wCLcBGAs/s1600/8.jpg" title="banh xeo" width="100%" /></div>
<br />
If you love seafood but don't want to pay the prices back home Hoi An is your best bet. 1kg of crab back home would have set me back a small fortune, but here in Hoi An it was only $20! Freshly caught and slathered in tamarind sauce it was definitely one of the best crab I have ever had.
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-size: 0; text-align: center;">
<img alt="hoi an crab" border="0" height="100%" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-jd7fhN4mYgA/WdD2R38nu2I/AAAAAAAAGF4/4PeusNfeVm4uTSPH44AEtiZIfCA6yq5AwCLcBGAs/s1600/9.jpg" title="crab" width="100%" /></div>
<br />
<i>Ca Ri Ga</i> is the Vietnamese variation of chicken curry made with vegetables and coconut curry sauce. Unlike Indian curries, the Vietnamese variation is more like a stew and is sometimes dipped with french bread.
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-size: 0; text-align: center;">
<img alt=" ca ri ga chicken curry" border="0" height="100%" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-5S6c16k2WXU/WdD2UAMH5BI/AAAAAAAAGF8/q6EJX8k5484PIxPgmJ3Kd4oeV3gnIVLegCLcBGAs/s1600/10.jpg" title="ca ri ga" width="100%" /></div>
<br />
What I enjoyed the most about restaurant dining was not only the super cheap cocktails, but the concoctions of smoothies and refreshing drinks I had never even known existed. Avocado Shake? Jackfruit Smoothie? <i>Say what?!</i> My favourite was the soursop smoothie, so when you've had enough $3 piña coladas look for the smoothie menu to try something you definitely won't be finding back home.
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-size: 0; text-align: center;">
<img alt="cocktail vietnam in hoi an by the sea" border="0" height="100%" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-81vvLL8kEF0/WdD2WnS6_3I/AAAAAAAAGGA/zzFYB3dQUV40JVHlWIQJPqgyylvnCVwJACLcBGAs/s1600/11.jpg" title="cocktail vietnam" width="100%" /></div>
<br />
<br />
<h3>
<b><span style="color: black; font-family: "oswald" , sans-serif; font-size: 28px;">FINE DINING</span></b></h3>
<br />
Fine dining in Vietnam tends to slant towards the French variety. The best meal we had was at Ho Chi Minh City's La Villa French Restaurant which is a Michelin quality establishment set up in a huge villa. Most of the ingredients are imported from France so this is not a fusion type restaurant. But compared to what we would pay at home for this quality meal it is a bargain.
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-size: 0; text-align: center;">
<img alt="la villa french restaurant ho chi minh city vietnam" border="0" height="100%" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-xFl8C8AUCPY/WdD2ZOZt7-I/AAAAAAAAGGE/_XbXgsFY5MM5Rgyz2ozJMZH5PHmEu8_7QCLcBGAs/s1600/12.jpg" title="la villa french restaurant" width="100%" /></div>
<br />
In Hanoi we were recommended La Badiane by the hotel staff for the ultimate fine dining experience. While touting itself as a French establishment, it thoughtfully combines Vietnamese flavours for a wonderfully delicious result.
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-size: 0; text-align: center;">
<img alt="la badiane hanoi vietnam" border="0" height="100%" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-SRWj2re_6f8/WdD2brqWf9I/AAAAAAAAGGI/jSAljzox4lEkyxIACX1VG-5Y6cCkHA5PQCLcBGAs/s1600/13.jpg" title="la badiane" width="100%" /></div>
<br />
Near our hotel we stumbled upon Green Tangerine, a French fusion restaurant set in a colonial building from 1928. An oasis from the bustling streets of Hanoi we found it met our expectations with its sleek ambiance and tasty dishes.
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-size: 0; text-align: center;">
<img alt="green tangerine hanoi vietnam" border="0" height="100%" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-XNGHttMflzY/WdD2eSMyPUI/AAAAAAAAGGM/CGMGr2jV8Q0W4BpPOy9-sOpD6hNkDLrcQCLcBGAs/s1600/14.jpg" title="green tangerine" width="100%" /></div>
<br />
<br />
<h3>
<b><span style="color: black; font-family: "oswald" , sans-serif; font-size: 28px;">TEA HOUSES AND SPECIALTY DRINKS</span></b></h3>
<br />
Cafe culture is thriving in Vietnam with funky speakeasies found in the heart of every major city. <i>Ca Phe</i> is prepared both hot and cold using condensed milk instead of sugar for the sweet taste. My favourite cofffee spot was the Khancasa Tea House in Ho Chi Minh City offering a selection of 100 different types of teas and coffees.
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-size: 0; text-align: center;">
<img alt="khancasa tea house ho chi minh city vietnam" border="0" height="100%" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-B1K70EEb548/WdD2g12cZ2I/AAAAAAAAGGQ/cPU2FuSMtbUb6w91mr2W8jXnileUH2KGACLcBGAs/s1600/15.jpg" title="khancasa tea house" width="100%" /></div>
<br />
Honey kumquat tea with a dash of lime was one of my favourite discoveries in Vietnam. It was difficult to find in restaurants sometimes but when I did I always ordered it.
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-size: 0; text-align: center;">
<img alt="honey kumquat tea vietnam" border="0" height="100%" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-9pIYpc0SJ2o/WdD2jcUMT4I/AAAAAAAAGGU/hoyEHivp4Pw_FNSxL0MSHxUczymWhW5AACLcBGAs/s1600/16.jpg" title="honey kumquat tea" width="100%" /></div>
<br />
I often saw people in cafes drinking a strange concoction of coffee with a metal tin on top. A few weeks into my trip I finally found out it was drip coffee with condensed milk. My only regret is not trying it sooner. It is super strong, full of flavour and highly addictive. Best consumed in the early morning for a jolt of energy.
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-size: 0; text-align: center;">
<img alt="drip coffee vietnam" border="0" height="100%" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-zKf6piAWJuE/WdD2mPKikUI/AAAAAAAAGGY/ayC7T5lxZsUWJzLftMIue7LYHgcRcQ4vQCLcBGAs/s1600/17.jpg" title="drip coffee" width="100%" /></div>
<br />
A Hanoi specialty, egg coffee is prepared with egg, robusta coffee, condensed milk and sugar. It is said to have been invented when milk was scarce and is served in a bowl of hot water so the coffee stays warm. It definitely sounds a bit weird, but trust me, it tastes amazing.
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-size: 0; text-align: center;">
<img alt="egg coffee hanoi vietnam" border="0" height="100%" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-OKsukOXyZGM/WdD2o46ihMI/AAAAAAAAGGc/MLytTg7gzsw4qItSSVJBJLU9RCu_-85nwCLcBGAs/s1600/18.jpg" title="egg coffee" width="100%" /></div>
<br />
Found only in Hanoi is coconut iced coffee, made with coconut, condensed milk and coffee, and tastes like a match made in heaven. Found in the funky Cong Caphe chain, I found myself here often to escape the hectic bustle outside.
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-size: 0; text-align: center;">
<img alt="coconut coffee hanoi vietnam" border="0" height="100%" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-y-rDHJiic8Q/WdD2rPEQb1I/AAAAAAAAGGg/fspX1cj9NMgS_3lTMk00ByCi3uALZn7EwCLcBGAs/s1600/19.jpg" title="coconut coffee" width="100%" /></div>
<br />
<br />
<h3>
<b><span style="color: black; font-family: "oswald" , sans-serif; font-size: 28px;">DESSERT</span></b></h3>
<br />
Shaved ice a dessert staple in Vietnam coming in many different variations. The one below is most commonly found in restaurants, which is shaved ice with a side of red bean and vanilla scoop. <i>Che</i> the street version of the dessert is mixed in a cup with a variety of ingredients including tapioca, jelly, red bean, tropical fruit and condensed milk.
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-size: 0; text-align: center;">
<img alt="halong bay misty and foggy" border="0" height="100%" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-O7co6pzgjIo/WdD2zLqhlZI/AAAAAAAAGGk/VjYUSCqOC1gR8LPNI_hJKyrawdxAEeFTQCLcBGAs/s1600/20.jpg" title="halong bay" width="100%" /></div>
<br />
<i>Chuoi chien</i> is the Vietnamese variation of deep fried bananas in batter smothered in ice cream and nuts. Banana being my favourite fruit, I ate this almost every time I saw it on the menu.
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-size: 0; text-align: center;">
<img alt="chuoi chien deep fried banana vietnam" border="0" height="100%" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Pp3rVArhSUA/WdD21qLoYZI/AAAAAAAAGGo/FFUfak7u-3AT-LLBPVN6ywqhKP1Lf2XdQCLcBGAs/s1600/21.jpg" title="chuoi chien" width="100%" /></div>
<br />
We were often served fruit with <i>muoi ot</i> (chilli salt) as a complementary dessert in Vietnam. The mixture of salty and refreshingly sweet textures became one of my favourite ways to end a meal in Vietnam. I liked this condiment so much I actually bought a few bottles to bring back home with me to Australia.
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-size: 0; text-align: center;">
<img alt="muoi ot chilli salt vietnam" border="0" height="100%" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-nN4sZo2J3G4/WdD24KnT_PI/AAAAAAAAGGs/ZMJ4jStsW8UwrxP0CzlN54P-pQLrZhboACLcBGAs/s1600/22.jpg" title="muoi ot" width="100%" /></div>
<br />
<br />
<h3>
<b><span style="color: black; font-family: "oswald" , sans-serif; font-size: 28px;">BARS AND SPECIALTY RESTAURANTS</span></b></h3>
<br />
Feeling adventurous we decided to visit a snake restaurant during our stay in Hanoi. Located in the Le Mat Snake Village on the outskirts of Hanoi we had a feast of snake cooked 11 ways sparing no piece of the body. For the more adventurous you are given the opportunity to eat the beating heart of the snake with a shot of blood and rice wine.
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-size: 0; text-align: center;">
<img alt="snake heart with blood and bile and rice wine hanoi vietnam" border="0" height="100%" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-LgwN67A2qMg/WdD26kfVEfI/AAAAAAAAGGw/2Hwc40fuz28UsUDj8IRET6oAG1yV7D7HgCLcBGAs/s1600/23.jpg" title="snake heart with blood and bile" width="100%" /></div>
<br />
Rooftop bars and restaurants are hidden on top of almost every high ride building in Hanoi. Even though they tend to serve western food I think it is still a part of the essential Ho Chi Minh City experience. Sleek and classy, the price we paid for food and drinks is a fraction of what we would have paid at home.
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-size: 0; text-align: center;">
<img alt="caravelle saigon rooftop bar ho chi minh city vietnam" border="0" height="100%" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ZBZPr1OH-84/WdD29KB41TI/AAAAAAAAGG0/OMEwnHF2ebkurDjiCpyksHsj0rh7itCfQCLcBGAs/s1600/24.jpg" title="caravelle saigon rooftop bar" width="100%" /></div>
<br />
Wandering the crooked streets of Hanoi's Old Quarter we found many quirky and cool eateries (like Obamas Restaurant below). Although we didn't actually get the chance to eat there this time we had fun looking for eccentric eateries we would never see pop up back home.
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-size: 0; text-align: center;">
<img alt="obamas restaurant hanoi vietnam" border="0" height="100%" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-LulT4HTLPWI/WdD2_qIstLI/AAAAAAAAGG4/fpp3jb5aXlQPH-J0VET3Llv-Ayoc1WSJACLcBGAs/s1600/25.jpg" title="obamas restaurant " width="100%" /></div>
Carlitahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10533463740017757079noreply@blogger.com28tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7540078356544900927.post-90339608414775973532017-08-14T01:17:00.002-07:002020-10-29T00:28:57.351-07:00Vietnam's BEST Cooking Class in Hoi An (Taught by a Professional Chef!)<i>Cooking a 4 course Vietnamese Lunch was my most authentic cultural experience in Vietnam.</i><br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-size: 0; text-align: center;">
<img alt="vietnamese cooking class hoi an" border="0" height="100%" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-UomF2jrdfyg/Wc1FyTRLpTI/AAAAAAAAF-Q/pNYEcFNvAGkEg9MhYLvJzFRq3eaE4MbqwCLcBGAs/s1600/0.jpg" title="vietnamese cooking class" width="100%" /></div>
<br />
Personally I don't like cooking, but when our hotel recommended us a traditional Vietnamese cooking class and told us it is their most highly rated day excursion, we thought to ourselves <i>why not?</i>
<br />
<br />
<a name='more'></a>We had a moderately lazy start to the day, picked up by our guide at 12pm for the afternoon class with the Thuan Tinh Island Tour. Our first stop was an outdoor market where we picked up fresh ingredients for our dishes. Our guide pointed out many different produce that can only be found in Vietnam (plus we got a free tasting because our guide is well known in the market).
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-size: 0; text-align: center;">
<img alt="vietnamese fresh food market" border="0" height="100%" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-E_xPhVBsNrs/Wc1F0_38OtI/AAAAAAAAF-U/eMy1Y9WAoioSucUtf143LLilXA-eLD5-gCLcBGAs/s1600/1.jpg" title="vietnamese market" width="100%" /></div>
<br />
After shopping we drove to the cooking class HQ which was located in a lovely outdoor space by the river. The morning class of 20 was cramped up still using half the floor space, but since our group had only 4 we spread out on one large table each.
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-size: 0; text-align: center;">
<img alt="me at table in vietnamese cooking class" border="0" height="100%" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-EB6P9uyV4bI/Wc1F3ASuVBI/AAAAAAAAF-Y/ycxT-9UfzpIoosssRGSb8V_Fy2NmqCktwCLcBGAs/s1600/2.jpg" title="vietnamese cooking class" width="100%" /></div>
<br />
Our chef first showed us how the Vietnamese traditionally made rice flour before modern technology using a stone grinder. Rice flour is a staple in Vietnamese cuisine, used to make rice paper and noodles.
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-size: 0; text-align: center;">
<img alt="vietnamese rice grinder for rice milk" border="0" height="100%" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-uhCblOlk8LI/Wc1F5atYhtI/AAAAAAAAF-c/P6ziCiLqCmIJPy7XhQMx77X50wJfI322ACLcBGAs/s1600/3.jpg" title="vietnamese rice grinder" width="100%" /></div>
<br />
Our first dish was <i>Goi Cuon</i> aka Vietnamese Salad Rolls with a side of <i>Nuoc Leo</i>, or Peanut Hoisin Sauce. A staple in Vietnamese restaurants back home, I recognised these almost immediately when our chef did a demonstration.
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-size: 0; text-align: center;">
<img alt="vietnamese salad roll beef" border="0" height="100%" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-l855wFu6uf8/Wc1F7SlCFPI/AAAAAAAAF-g/r54VU-KCP743lMGDqVlh5sorhElMthEHACLcBGAs/s1600/4.jpg" title="vietnamese salad roll" width="100%" /></div>
<br />
In order to make the rolls look aesthetically pleasing our chef taught us a trick to roll the filling first and leave the shrimp to the end. This is so the most decorative part of the roll (the shrimp) can be seen in the finished product.
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-size: 0; text-align: center;">
<img alt="vietnamese salad roll shrimp" border="0" height="100%" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-BfZlT704KG4/Wc1F9vvuZtI/AAAAAAAAF-k/vaqvp4nHlxsmETLJS2ZqfSHbYi3pnWbwgCLcBGAs/s1600/5.jpg" title="vietnamese salad roll" width="100%" /></div>
<br />
<i>Voila!</i> My first ever rice rolls with peanut sauce. Considering how healthy and easy these are to make I would definitely do these back home for a light lunch snack.
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-size: 0; text-align: center;">
<img alt="vietnamese salad roll and peanut sauce" border="0" height="100%" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-TavxCov9xBc/Wc1F_lER69I/AAAAAAAAF-o/tDNI3y_FTXIyVm00pv9F6g9VZtfhjMMJgCLcBGAs/s1600/6.jpg" title="vietnamese salad roll" width="100%" /></div>
<br />
Our next dish was something I had not seen before - <i>Banh Xeo</i> - sizzling Vietnamese crepes. Made with pork, shrimp, green onion and bean sprouts, this is a dish found most commonly on street food stands with a side of tangy <i>Nuoc Cham</i> dipping sauce.
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-size: 0; text-align: center;">
<img alt="banh xeo sizzling vietnamese pancakes" border="0" height="100%" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-UGYGhknadjM/Wc1GB7tcfeI/AAAAAAAAF-s/WxvaGZSz0KU7hyMmwgYOf_N9sHU-sgyeACLcBGAs/s1600/7.jpg" title="banh xeo" width="100%" /></div>
<br />
Our chef taught us as a personal favourite of hers she prefers to roll the sizzling pancakes in rice paper with lettuce and bean sprouts stuffed inside.
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-size: 0; text-align: center;">
<img alt="banh xeo sizzling vietnamese pancakes" border="0" height="100%" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-b7-CR-ZS5Bw/Wc1GESELEEI/AAAAAAAAF-w/-Mq2jmvmH1Iauxu6nn9mzAW-bJzFTa6zwCLcBGAs/s1600/8.jpg" title="banh xeo" width="100%" /></div>
<br />
Our third and main dish was <i>Bun Bo Nam Bo</i>, or Southern Style Beef Vermicelli. A lot simpler than it looks, it is made with rice noodles, beef tenderloin, a vegetable mix and burnt peanuts.
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-size: 0; text-align: center;">
<img alt="bun bo nam bo southern style vietnamese beef vermicelli on plate" border="0" height="100%" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Bs0S2tUtp_E/Wc1GHnhl3CI/AAAAAAAAF-0/GuR3xVF1ZbgLOgms1saCLurS59I_8vgnwCLcBGAs/s1600/9.jpg" title="bun bo nam bo southern style vietnamese beef vermicelli" width="100%" /></div>
<br />
After finishing our last meal our chef turned our attention to 2 big pots of beef bone broth that had been simmering for the past few hours. I knew straight away what we were going to be having - <i>Pho Bo Ha Noi</i> - Hanoi style noodle soup with beef (but even we say "pho" in English).
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-size: 0; text-align: center;">
<img alt="pho broth and ingredients" border="0" height="100%" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/--W_BjPhLiGo/Wc1GKKExIwI/AAAAAAAAF-4/9IrqFRKFnm8tvZMwa5xD4AHCkNBpKwoFQCLcBGAs/s1600/10.jpg" title="pho broth" width="100%" /></div>
<br />
After poaching our beef slices in the boiling broth for about 30 seconds we threw them on top of our already softened noodles.
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-size: 0; text-align: center;">
<img alt="pho noodles already cooked" border="0" height="100%" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-lXPhxwqeIg0/Wc1GNHDX2_I/AAAAAAAAF-8/ycNl50kdOFkleJdYmUup-Lv61qhwgqivQCLcBGAs/s1600/11.jpg" title="pho noodles" width="100%" /></div>
<br />
Sprinkling some chopped green onion, red shallots, thai basil and bean sprouts it was ready to eat.
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-size: 0; text-align: center;">
<img alt="pho bo ha noi beef soup" border="0" height="100%" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/--NwN9ShoHkY/Wc1GPr3GwhI/AAAAAAAAF_A/QN67PgDvnpojET6ECFM7hofvpNfbBWZswCLcBGAs/s1600/12.jpg" title="pho bo ha noi" width="100%" /></div>
<br />
Like I said before, I am not a big fan of cooking, but this class was an absolute delight! Our chef/guide was super friendly and everything was thoughtfully planned to make sure the lesson went as smoothly as possible. Plus the non-stop flow of fresh passionfruit juice served by the helpers kept us refreshed and alert.
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-size: 0; text-align: center;">
<img alt="vietnamese cooking class me cooking" border="0" height="100%" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-YTS8vEFHkNk/Wc1GSSUuMFI/AAAAAAAAF_E/uGh7o5jVG88nvfWDdOUTOw70-k-YXp35QCLcBGAs/s1600/13.jpg" title="vietnamese cooking class" width="100%" /></div>
Carlitahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10533463740017757079noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7540078356544900927.post-34881750955453759512017-07-10T01:17:00.001-07:002020-10-28T00:54:28.152-07:00Visiting Vietnam's BEST Snake Restaurant<i>If you're itching for an exotic feast in Vietnam, Le Mat Snake Village in Hanoi has you covered.</i><br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-size: 0; text-align: center;">
<img alt="snake restaurant experience vietnam" border="0" height="100%" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-tEdrq7JpS_Y/WcT1ta5QpVI/AAAAAAAAF6I/eQ20RYk705kDDr0yOPQDnyu7AoZszioSACLcBGAs/s1600/0.jpg" title="snake restaurant" width="100%" /></div>
<br />
A 15 minute drive from Hanoi Old Quarter you can find the Le Mat Snake Village. Famous for its reptilian specialty, the snake of your choosing is freshly prepared in every which way possible. The art of snakes on a plate is a family tradition in Le Mat, prepared with well guarded recipes.
<br />
<br />
<a name='more'></a>
Our hotel recommended us the Nguyen Van Duc Restaurant - a popular spot with the locals. Nestled in a crooked alleyway behind the main road we walked in with trepidation - but once inside everything happened very fast. The lone English speaking staff gave us an option of a few types of snake. We chose the cobra for 1,000,000 dong (about $50USD).
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-size: 0; text-align: center;">
<img alt="snake restaurant nguyen van duc" border="0" height="100%" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-zac_4Z-lcFM/WcT1vgUDlUI/AAAAAAAAF6M/OCDKk929Q1cKG37MD7NJNwdTVvL11OqxgCLcBGAs/s1600/1.jpg" title="snake restaurant" width="100%" /></div>
<br />
After the staff removed the snake venom they quickly killed the snake and ushered us to our table. We were presented with 2 bottles - one filled with with blood and rice wine and the other with bile and rice wine - and one plate with the beating heart of the snake.
<br />
<br />
I mustered my courage to down the beating heart with a shot of blood like its done by the locals, but I just couldn't bring myself do it. <i>I think a bottle of liquid courage before I arrive is what I'll need before my next visit.</i>
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-size: 0; text-align: center;">
<img alt="snake heart and blood and bile with rice wine" border="0" height="100%" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-KHwUZi7PaLw/WcT1x0VPIAI/AAAAAAAAF6Q/men_mJUAdvsN0966kFkjNrFmPvMS4IwRwCLcBGAs/s1600/2.jpg" title="snake heart and blood" width="100%" /></div>
<br />
The staff gave us a menu which detailed the 11 ways our cobra would be prepared - every part of the snake is used with not a single piece going to waste.
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-size: 0; text-align: center;">
<img alt="snake restaurant menu vietnam" border="0" height="100%" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Jt0-DL1z0EQ/WcT10MssGdI/AAAAAAAAF6U/SjZIWjgXR4oXd4RyXpPrTt-sDXxTuAseACLcBGAs/s1600/3.jpg" title="snake restaurant menu" width="100%" /></div>
<br />
It wasn't long after that our feast began to materialise itself with plates quickly coming out one by one. Since this restaurant was frequented by locals the wait staff did not speak English but using the menu we could still figure out what part of the snake we were eating. The first two dishes were relatively tame - vine leaf snake roll and snake spring rolls.
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-size: 0; text-align: center;">
<img alt="snake spring rolls and vine leaves" border="0" height="100%" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-CpETO9qG9P8/WcT12jk2DgI/AAAAAAAAF6Y/9N7aPbUcsocpnphYtuXZYh4lxc99gr81QCLcBGAs/s1600/4.jpg" title="snake spring rolls and vine leaves" width="100%" /></div>
<br />
When they say no part of the snake was overlooked they really mean it. One of my favourite dishes was made from sauteed cobra skin - I could feel the scales tickling my throat as it went down.
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-size: 0; text-align: center;">
<img alt="snake skin dish" border="0" height="100%" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-BOBYPbh3Qpg/WcT15CSyXlI/AAAAAAAAF6c/f6-nAaB4uIMoSD5VXm7giDV7Uyoo4zoOgCLcBGAs/s1600/5.jpg" title="snake skin" width="100%" /></div>
<br />
The further I got into the meal and the more blood and rice wine shots I drank the less I cared about the fact we eventually progressed to eating stewed snake soup with a cobra head staring up at me.
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-size: 0; text-align: center;">
<img alt="snake soup with snake meat" border="0" height="100%" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-4qHSfnoeb1U/WcT17EBdB3I/AAAAAAAAF6g/mcoWMWkGin4JHHUu_hNqAp3njSxTeRo-ACLcBGAs/s1600/6.jpg" title="snake soup" width="100%" /></div>
<br />
Our entire spread of 11 courses shared between just the 2 of us could have potentially fed a family. Basically a buffet of snake, I feel like this experience is something I would do on a celebratory occasion if I were ever a permanent resident in Vietnam.
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-size: 0; text-align: center;">
<img alt="snake meal entire table" border="0" height="100%" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-GPxmmWBc4Yo/WcT19Q79NGI/AAAAAAAAF6k/2ozRbI8AEUgF2atHWJINZipoFBJckQk5gCLcBGAs/s1600/7.jpg" title="snake meal" width="100%" /></div>
<br />
All in all, the experience was certainly unique. Eating something that was alive only moments ago (a snake nonetheless) was probably one of my once in a lifetime experiences. As far as exotic meats in Vietnam go I think snake is the furthest I'll ever venture (I've heard there is a "canine street" somewhere in Hanoi that I hope I never accidentally stumble upon).
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-size: 0; text-align: center;">
<img alt="me at snake restaurant" border="0" height="100%" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-qOf9GQDFsxM/WcT2AJ7h6_I/AAAAAAAAF6o/nBR3ER1KpWU-1vzaEji84j9Sa1Po_xQOgCLcBGAs/s1600/8.jpg" title="snake restaurant" width="100%" /></div>
<br />
<span style="font-size: xx-small;">Image attribution:</span><br />
<span style="font-size: xx-small;"><a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/67617608@N06/8659291177/" target="_blank">"Thy Serpent"</a> by <a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/67617608@N06/" target="_blank">Yehia.ElZeiny</a> // <a href="https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/2.0/" target="_blank">CC BY 2.0</a> *</span>
<br />
<span style="font-size: xx-small;">* changes were made to the original materials</span>
Carlitahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10533463740017757079noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7540078356544900927.post-70495813862425634252017-06-16T05:54:00.001-07:002020-10-29T00:35:02.068-07:00My Unforgettable Halong Bay Cruise (2 Amazing Nights!)<i>Sitting on the north east coast of Vietnam, Halong Bay is a stunning sprinkling of 1600 islands and caves.</i><br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-size: 0; text-align: center;">
<img alt="halong bay title" border="0" height="100%" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-XP7XDALq6a8/WcAS0u21F5I/AAAAAAAAF0A/V37U8Na2VkYV2UDZtopNDn_mQrbrvqDkwCLcBGAs/s1600/0.jpg" title="halong bay" width="100%" /></div>
<br />
Shortly after arriving in Hanoi, we headed into the city centre and found a random travel agency to book a cruise in Halong Bay. <i>One night or two</i>, the agent asked us. Seeing as it is a 3 hour bus ride from Hanoi to Halong we decided one night was just not worth it.
<br />
<br />
<a name='more'></a><h3>
<b><span style="color: black; font-family: "oswald" , sans-serif; font-size: 28px;">PICKING YOUR BOAT</span></b></h3>
<br />
We were offered a selection of 5 different classes of boats, ranging from <i>basic</i> to <i>super luxury</i>. We decided to pick the middle class, thinking it was a fair price of $300 per person (fully inclusive). Only after we got on the boat and chatted with other groups we found out we were overcharged by $100 per person!
<br />
<br />
My best advice is to negotiate with your travel agent - they want to make the sell and you don't want to be ripped off - its a win win! And if you're not happy with what they're offering Hanoi is littered with travel agents at every corner of the city centre.
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-size: 0; text-align: center;">
<img alt="halong bay cruise boat" border="0" height="100%" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-i_nF8c43aYk/WcAS3PhasuI/AAAAAAAAF0E/RG5qxu5Hx-gZPFVECyQXk0PyOn65QFUCACLcBGAs/s1600/1.jpg" title="cruise boat" width="100%" /></div>
<br />
<br />
<h3>
<b><span style="color: black; font-family: "oswald" , sans-serif; font-size: 28px;">PICKING YOUR SEASON</span></b></h3>
<br />
Every tourist snap I had seen of Halong Bay was taken in picture perfect conditions - bright blue sky on that perfect summers day - so I have to admit I was a little disappointed by the dreary conditions and mist that covered the mountain tops jutting out above the sea. But after the first day I have to admit I found the foggy landscape quite charming. If that still doesn't entice you I have been told the best time for sunny skies and warm weather in Halong is between September and October.
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-size: 0; text-align: center;">
<img alt="halong bay misty and foggy" border="0" height="100%" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-BIT-iPUjVb0/WcAS5XHFdGI/AAAAAAAAF0I/KYCUqsueSdAQnj9qP-3Xs8RmrIJ4AQOfgCLcBGAs/s1600/2.jpg" title="halong bay" width="100%" /></div>
<br />
<br />
<h3>
<span style="color: #ff00cd; font-family: "oswald" , "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: 32px; font-weight: normal;">DAY ONE</span></h3>
<br />
We were picked up by coach bus at 8am sharp and made our way to Halong Bay. After having our passports checked (everyone who leaves and returns to the dock is scrutinised) we made our way onto the boat.
<br />
<br />
The group convened in the dining room and I decided to order myself a traditional Vietnamese coffee which is made of condensed milk and drip coffee (really wakes you up - gonna try this one at home!). Our head guide detailed to us what we would be doing each day, starting with a hike after lunch.
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-size: 0; text-align: center;">
<img alt="vietnamese drip coffee" border="0" height="100%" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-mn24m8ecpPk/WcAS7goaCuI/AAAAAAAAF0M/5JXqAxtNyB47cNwgwV8Xmd3gj4BdaqEUwCLcBGAs/s1600/3.jpg" title="vietnamese coffee" width="100%" /></div>
<br />
<br />
<h3>
<b><span style="color: black; font-family: "oswald" , sans-serif; font-size: 28px;">SUNG SOT CAVE</span></b></h3>
<br />
After lunch we went to Sung Sot Cave - a colossal cave which is the biggest in Halong. A colourful series of chambers, it was a great way to begin our journey. Dripping with hundreds of thousands of stalactites, our guide pointed out many spectacularly shaped rocks that were shaped like celebrities and other objects.
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-size: 0; text-align: center;">
<img alt="sung sot cave halong bay" border="0" height="100%" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-gcNMiOLbhRo/WcAS-Rg_6HI/AAAAAAAAF0Q/d-Cqv0riW2Etq6hi2vVVJW5aF67J1eI_QCLcBGAs/s1600/4.jpg" title="sung sot cave" width="100%" /></div>
<br />
The hardest part of the walk was climbing up the stairs of the cave to reach the exit. But the view was totally worth it!
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-size: 0; text-align: center;">
<img alt="halong bay view sung sot cave" border="0" height="100%" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-hff3h-0C3WI/WcATAvfg6DI/AAAAAAAAF0U/pBe-oVHOCV4WsdMotv0oeYlHEYLDsF07gCLcBGAs/s1600/5.jpg" title="halong bay" width="100%" /></div>
<br />
<br />
<h3>
<b><span style="color: black; font-family: "oswald" , sans-serif; font-size: 28px;">CANOEING</span></b></h3>
<br />
After our hike those of us with enough energy went on a canoe adventure. My travel companion was exhausted so I did this one alone. I didn't go far from the shore out of fear I would be "swept away" but it was a really relaxing way to end the afternoon in the calm wilderness with no sounds other than myself (although my arms wouldn't necessarily agree with that one).
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-size: 0; text-align: center;">
<img alt="canoeing halong bay" border="0" height="100%" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-cF-h4SAvS2Q/WcATDBz9-UI/AAAAAAAAF0Y/-ct1ermZGs0C8e3XsWQuRqtS_3y1ik2MQCLcBGAs/s1600/6.jpg" title="canoeing halong bay" width="100%" /></div>
<br />
<br />
<h3>
<b><span style="color: black; font-family: "oswald" , sans-serif; font-size: 28px;">JELLYFISH FISHING</span></b></h3>
<br />
After dinner we were invited to go jellyfish fishing. Completely different from "normal" fishing, you catch the jellyfish by bobbing a fish shaped hook near bright lights in the water. No one caught anything but it was a still fun first for me.
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-size: 0; text-align: center;">
<img alt="jellyfish fishing in halong bay" border="0" height="100%" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-o0MZGyhpH2o/WcATFuJDH7I/AAAAAAAAF0c/HArpZCJtRvcI_fiTjX2UVSpCB96DPsFBQCLcBGAs/s1600/7.jpg" title="jellyfish fishing" width="100%" /></div>
<br />
<br />
<h3>
<span style="color: #ff00cd; font-family: "oswald" , "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: 32px; font-weight: normal;">DAY TWO</span></h3>
<br />
That night was the first time I had spend time in our room - it was pretty stuffy so I didn't spend any time there during the first day. As far as the room goes it has all the basic amenities. I have to admit I wasn't happy with the bathroom - there was no separate shower - you shower in the bathroom on top of the toilet and sink - so I made a resolution I wouldn't bother having a shower until I got back to Hanoi.
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-size: 0; text-align: center;">
<img alt="cruise boat room halong bay" border="0" height="100%" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-nRMv8370HXs/WcATIPqcD7I/AAAAAAAAF0g/TqDtswsg54I3gYotYBKlc-EWU7QGAyunQCLcBGAs/s1600/8.jpg" title="cruise boat room" width="100%" /></div>
<br />
<br />
<h3>
<b><span style="color: black; font-family: "oswald" , sans-serif; font-size: 28px;">TITOP ISLAND</span></b></h3>
<br />
After breakfast we were dropped off at Titop Island and hiked up the mountain. The view was lovely, but since it was still early the mist was still thick and we couldn't see far into the distance.
<br />
<br />
At the end of the hike we had a disaster and realised our guide didn't give us instructions what to do after. Our group scattered while some of us waited on the dock hoping our guide would turn up. After almost an hour of waiting a man came to us and confirmed we were going on a day trip with him. Apparently he had spent the last hour frantically trying to find our group.
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-size: 0; text-align: center;">
<img alt="titop island halong bay" border="0" height="100%" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-XZq8BHOELoQ/WcATKu1qOUI/AAAAAAAAF0k/qapWE4reaRU2RuVvRfwye7wH6VjOABp6gCLcBGAs/s1600/9.jpg" title="titop island" width="100%" /></div>
<br />
<br />
<h3>
<b><span style="color: black; font-family: "oswald" , sans-serif; font-size: 28px;">DAY EXCURSION</span></b></h3>
<br />
Finally onto the boat we were served a super fresh lunch of seafood caught just that morning and an outline of our day trip.
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-size: 0; text-align: center;">
<img alt="fresh prawns halong bay lunch" border="0" data-original-width="1000" height="100%" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-fXc-dUyD8N0/WcATNXKvr6I/AAAAAAAAF0o/REhWzuvw0pk2V4XroZFNvPwIs24bMfMGQCLcBGAs/s1600/10.jpg" title="prawns halong bay" width="100%" /></div>
<br />
<br />
<h3>
<b><span style="color: black; font-family: "oswald" , sans-serif; font-size: 28px;">CANOE ADVENTURE</span></b></h3>
<br />
We went on an amazing canoe adventure that was way better than yesterday. We were winding in and out of caves just like the one below. Canoeing in the foggy misty conditions made me realise just how much I was enjoying the misty season in Halong. It was strangely romantic, to be surrounded by only caves, mountains and fog, like something out of a dream.
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-size: 0; text-align: center;">
<img alt="cave halong bay canoeing" border="0" height="100%" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-cPXfbtwF8tk/WcATQIhYKDI/AAAAAAAAF0s/-0iBqhgRqbAy6kXAFiBPCiy2CRe7m1rKgCLcBGAs/s1600/11.jpg" title="cave halong bay" width="100%" /></div>
<br />
Our group finally made it to the beach for a well needed rest - we had been canoeing for something like an hour and a half at that point. A few brave souls jumped into the cold water but I was happy to appreciate the waves from a distance.
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-size: 0; text-align: center;">
<img alt="halong bay beach and canoes" border="0" height="100%" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-R_kfJ1Oi9ck/WcATSmxaY7I/AAAAAAAAF0w/u-94D0b0PEg9SnIlXsvjGBBPytvZb4qGgCLcBGAs/s1600/12.jpg" title="halong bay beach" width="100%" /></div>
<br />
<br />
<h3>
<b><span style="color: black; font-family: "oswald" , sans-serif; font-size: 28px;">PEARL FARM</span></b></h3>
<br />
After returning to the main boat we made our way to a pearl farm. The entire process was demonstrated to us, how they grew the pearls from infancy to the moment the oysters are opened and the pearls are inspected. We spent about an hour there until we returned to our main boat in the evening.
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-size: 0; text-align: center;">
<img alt="halong bay pearl farm" border="0" height="100%" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-w7O0cizzIM8/WcATWGg0OEI/AAAAAAAAF00/o-AYrPy09K4WSgzCTvvYjxomu0wGSgytgCLcBGAs/s1600/13.jpg" title="pearl farm" width="100%" /></div>
<br />
<br />
<h3>
<span style="color: #ff00cd; font-family: "oswald" , "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: 32px; font-weight: normal;">DAY THREE</span></h3>
<br />
Our final morning went at a relaxing pace. We were arriving back on land after lunch so I spent time on the deck admiring the final hours of the scenery. Unlike the other days, the fog cleared up this morning so I got to appreciate the clear view.
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-size: 0; text-align: center;">
<img alt="halong bay fishing boats" border="0" height="100%" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-cJskqo59e9I/WcATZDF_GHI/AAAAAAAAF04/genJEm8k0ckBVKZORDGlGg02wxvoAQ29wCLcBGAs/s1600/14.jpg" title="halong bay boats" width="100%" /></div>
<br />
<br />
<h3>
<b><span style="color: black; font-family: "oswald" , sans-serif; font-size: 28px;">COOKING CLASS</span></b></h3>
<br />
For lunch we were taught how to roll Vietnamese rolls, but since I had already done this in our cooking class in Hoi An I was already a pro! These are so simple I will definitely be making these back home.
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-size: 0; text-align: center;">
<img alt="halong bay cooking class vietnamese roll" border="0" height="100%" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-VerEdkCg09s/WcATb0ZpJyI/AAAAAAAAF08/OpWb3IBvI-cLkTItyW7GZcS3SxVZlRdWgCLcBGAs/s1600/15.jpg" title="halong bay cooking class" width="100%" /></div>
<br />
<br />
<h3>
<b><span style="color: black; font-family: "oswald" , sans-serif; font-size: 28px;">FINAL THOUGHTS</span></b></h3>
<br />
Halong Bay was definitely one of my top experiences in Vietnam - the natural beauty of this UNESCO heritage site was a one of a kind for me. If you are unsure whether to do one night or two I think this unspoiled treasure has more than enough to see - we didn't get bored being stuck on the ship at all like we had anticipated.
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-size: 0; text-align: center;">
<img alt="halong bay night galaxy sky" border="0" height="100%" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-D4Vw6MiLR1c/WcATeebxXlI/AAAAAAAAF1A/dLdUb5wJyI4kGp0FHvOdqcYOOWntdA4awCLcBGAs/s1600/16.jpg" title="halong bay night" width="100%" /></div>
<br />
<span style="font-size: xx-small;">Image attribution:</span><br />
<span style="font-size: xx-small;"><a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/141514628@N08/36122992470/" target="_blank">"Vietnam"</a> by <a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/141514628@N08/" target="_blank">Felix Nagel</a> // <a href="https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/2.0/" target="_blank">CC BY 2.0</a> *</span>
;
<span style="font-size: xx-small;"><a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/lhanaphotography/15515134986/" target="_blank">"Milky Way over Colorado"</a> by <a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/lhanaphotography/" target="_blank">Max and Dee Brent</a> // <a href="https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/2.0/" target="_blank">CC BY 2.0</a> *</span>
<br />
<span style="font-size: xx-small;">* changes were made to the original materials</span>
Carlitahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10533463740017757079noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7540078356544900927.post-31607528119477078752017-05-30T01:51:00.002-07:002020-10-29T00:39:14.579-07:00One Week in Hanoi (Our Unforgettable Experience)<i>The capital of the nation, Hanoi is an amalgamation of diverse cultures, venerable shrines and narrow winding mazes in the heart of the city.</i><br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-size: 0; text-align: center;">
<img alt="how to spend one week in hanoi" border="0" height="100%" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-8EmeCM7WeDM/WahDDq9XvqI/AAAAAAAAFis/wK1ySttroIoGwUsnKYIzIG5D-rq1uelfwCLcBGAs/s1600/0.jpg" title="hanoi" width="100%" /></div>
<br />
Hanoi was my second taste of the Vietnamese metropolis lifestyle. With chaotic inner city streets, a distinct European quarter and a unique food culture not found anywhere else in Vietnam, it's a must-do in any Vietnamese travel itinerary.
<br />
<br />
I did spend one full week in Hanoi, but I probably could have fit this itinerary into 3-4 days. After rushing ourselves in Hoi An and Da Nang we wanted to slow it down and give ourselves a little extra time - so if you're in a rush you could squeeze in all these places in about half the time.
<br />
<br />
<a name='more'></a><h3>
<span style="color: #ff00cd; font-family: "oswald" , "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: 32px; font-weight: normal;">DAY ONE | EXPLORING THE OLD QUARTER & THE BEST EGG COFFEE IN THE WORLD</span></h3>
<br />
We arrived early on our first day and decided the first thing we had to do was go exploring in Hanoi's vibrant old quarter. The old quarter lies in a triangular area in the north of the city centre between the 4 red font coloured streets below. What makes the old quarter so interesting is that every street of the 36 specialise in selling something different - Hàng Bạc specialises in silver and jewellery; Hàng Chiếu sells decorations and Hàng Gai is silk street.
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-size: 0; text-align: center;">
<img alt="hanoi old quarter street guide" border="0" height="100%" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Hm-3ABqn9Mw/WahDGLhRbEI/AAAAAAAAFiw/ddq-xfQOg3sFIIvOcQudqb8Ff_rz61b6ACLcBGAs/s1600/1.jpg" title="hanoi old quarter" width="100%" /></div>
<br />
Every street is tightly packed (so keep your belongings close) but the bustling activity of people, shops and motorcycles zooming in and out made it an adventure getting lost and discovering something new on every corner.
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-size: 0; text-align: center;">
<img alt="hanoi old quarter street" border="0" height="100%" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-g3iWjY0dwSg/WahDIlQhpNI/AAAAAAAAFi0/bPiUzG2p3J0i0sfCvQpXg-1MYLuIYSGKQCLcBGAs/s1600/2.JPG" title="hanoi old quarter" width="100%" /></div>
<br />
Lying on the outskirts of the old quarter we found Cafe Giang - the cafe that specialises in egg coffee. Egg coffee is a creamy concoction made from egg yolk, condensed milk and coffee and Hanoi is the only place in the world you can find it.
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-size: 0; text-align: center;">
<img alt="egg coffee at cafe giang" border="0" height="100%" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-eJ_5CQQdk1A/WahDLd6-ayI/AAAAAAAAFi4/9JX7xpiRT44cxg7OAjoCZu9CJwxf0RDBQCLcBGAs/s1600/3.JPG" title="egg coffee" width="100%" /></div>
<br />
<br />
<h3>
<span style="color: #ff00cd; font-family: "oswald" , "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: 32px; font-weight: normal;">DAY TWO | PAY YOUR RESPECTS AT THE HO CHI MINH MAUSOLEUM & SEE THE TRAN QUOC PAGODA</span></h3>
<br />
No matter how early you arrive at the Ho Chi Minh Complex you will not beat the crowds at the entrance - we arrived at 8am and there was already hundreds of people in line. It took us about an hour to get in to the Mausoleum and we got 30 seconds to see the body of Uncle Ho which was pretty cool. Cameras are not allowed in the Mausoleum so I got this sneaky snap outside with my go pro.
<br />
<br />
Outside the Mausoleum we spent an extra hour exploring the Complex which included the Presidential Palace, Ho Chi Minh's Stilt House and the One Pillar Pagoda which was built in the 11th century.
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-size: 0; text-align: center;">
<img alt="ho chi minh mausoleum line" border="0" height="100%" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-2Jb1oToZgb8/WahDOSU7o0I/AAAAAAAAFi8/cl4HAKXVR4ky5OaPr3mXcKt0OSWeS3zcACLcBGAs/s1600/4.jpg" title="ho chi minh mausoleum" width="100%" /></div>
<br />
If you're feeling adventurous you can walk to the Tran Quoc Pagoda from the Mausoleum in about 45 minutes. Sitting on the West Lake, it is Hanoi's oldest Buddhist Temple. It's a small complex, but felt like a breath of fresh air with its picturesque views and pleasant tranquility away from the bustling city.
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-size: 0; text-align: center;">
<img alt="tran quoc pagodaon west lake" border="0" height="100%" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ws8HMT7eJ3g/WahDQ-Vn9gI/AAAAAAAAFjA/7l6UwkClbpQz-ATBSINWAYQxf7tGdYrHACLcBGAs/s1600/5.JPG" title="tran quoc pagoda" width="100%" /></div>
<br />
<br />
<h3>
<span style="color: #ff00cd; font-family: "oswald" , "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: 32px; font-weight: normal;">DAY THREE | STROLL AROUND HOAN KIEM LAKE & THE FRENCH QUARTER</span></h3>
<br />
The French Quarter of Hanoi lies south of Hoan Kiem Lake and is home to a number of luxury eateries and shops. We found it easier to navigate this area compared to the tightly packed Old Quarter. Personally I enjoyed wandering in this area more than the Old Quarter but I would save my pennies for the more affordable parts of the city.
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-size: 0; text-align: center;">
<img alt="french quarter hanoi at night" border="0" height="100%" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-BD1MxKiAdIs/WahDTTUGZ7I/AAAAAAAAFjE/Rbfh3TBelCgkgvgs2WBAfmwRYNggjHWIACLcBGAs/s1600/6.JPG" title="french quarter hanoi" width="100%" /></div>
<br />
On the south east corner of Hoan Kiem Lake we stumbled into the Trang Tien Plaza. Divided into 6 floors this is where the rich and famous come to shop. We enjoyed strolling around for an hour but with an abundance of bargain markets just a few streets away we didn't bother buying anything.
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-size: 0; text-align: center;">
<img alt="trang tien plaza luxury mall" border="0" height="100%" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-dNCn7Sur0aU/WahDWFbflFI/AAAAAAAAFjI/kv2ss6oIWm4SwRys2_ZIL1D20OUdPLB_gCLcBGAs/s1600/7.JPG" title="trang tien plaza" width="100%" /></div>
<br />
Right in the centre of the city centre is Hoan Kiem Lake. In the centre of the lake lies two structures - the Turtle Tower which is not accessible to the public and Jade Island. It doesn't take long to walk around the lake - maybe an hour and a half at most - but we found it a relaxing way to enjoy the scenery and take some memorable pictures.
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-size: 0; text-align: center;">
<img alt="hoan kiem lake turtle tower" border="0" height="100%" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-AiIVwJzz6yA/WahDZIwLzDI/AAAAAAAAFjM/nhCnRwIyBmsVwTz_TvAoF0fS4twJtg3XACLcBGAs/s1600/8.JPG" title="hoan kiem lake" width="100%" /></div>
<br />
The Huc Bridge leads to the Temple of the Jade Mountain which lights up at night and illuminates the entire lake - however you can only visit the temple during the day. Its small and there is a small cost to cross the bridge but definitely worth at least a few minutes of exploration.
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-size: 0; text-align: center;">
<img alt="hoan kiem lake the huc bridge" border="0" height="100%" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-yHhG-jB9sq0/WahDbhZ9MlI/AAAAAAAAFjQ/Tbs9mtNG5pETOg2k6-dgvSA0ldv_18lOgCLcBGAs/s1600/9.JPG" title="hoan kiem lake" width="100%" /></div>
<br />
<br />
<h3>
<span style="color: #ff00cd; font-family: "oswald" , "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: 32px; font-weight: normal;">DAY FOUR | HANOI ZOO / LOTTE CENTRE OBSERVATION DECK / RELAX AT THE SPA</span></h3>
<br />
A 10 minute drive from the city centre we found Hanoi Zoological Gardens. I feel like I'm in two minds about my experience at the zoo. On one hand it is super cheap ($2USD entrance fee) and I got up and close to exotic animals such as tigers and lions which I've never done before. On the other hand some of the exhibits are depressing - the enclosures are tiny and concrete floored with no greenery. It seemed like a cruel exhibition however as Vietnam is a developing country I think this is exactly what I should have expected.
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-size: 0; text-align: center;">
<img alt="hanoi zoo lion cage" border="0" height="100%" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ebBIuC-Ivks/WahDebVs7cI/AAAAAAAAFjU/-TZycwbN5DwQVHrWchTybScX6zixNwzeACLcBGAs/s1600/10.JPG" title="hanoi zoo" width="100%" /></div>
<br />
Across the road from the zoo is the Lotte Center which encompasses a department store, hotel and observation deck into one 65 storey skyscraper. We spent a few hours in the department store which is high end and full of luxury items.
<br />
<br />
We waited until 5pm to enter the observation deck on the top floor because the tickets are half price at sundown. For $7USD it's a decent price compared to other sky decks worldwide and you don't have to pay extra to enter the suspended window area.
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-size: 0; text-align: center;">
<img alt="lotte observatory deck window floor hanoi" border="0" height="100%" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Y68yfPoVT0U/WahDg46BWMI/AAAAAAAAFjY/mRRG38o8_xIBTlR2SJCZOeg8d3g33-4bACLcBGAs/s1600/11.JPG" title="lotte observatory deck" width="100%" /></div>
<br />
After spending a full day walking all we wanted to do was relax. Like Ho Chi Minh City, there are hundreds of spas and massage centres in the city centre, so we decided to treat ourselves to an hour long massage at the Hanoi La Siesta Spa. For $30 an hour how can you not treat yourself just once (I dont know if this is expensive compared to other countries but in Australia it is a total bargain)!
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-size: 0; text-align: center;">
<img alt="spa hanoi in the old quarter" border="0" height="100%" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-bqs1CGDLYeY/WahDkQ_EdxI/AAAAAAAAFjc/doegdz01HkovvWVhoLLF5XOIhFWftHLoQCLcBGAs/s1600/12.JPG" title="spa hanoi" width="100%" /></div>
<br />
<br />
<h3>
<span style="color: #ff00cd; font-family: "oswald" , "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: 32px; font-weight: normal;">DAY FIVE | CULTURE YOURSELF AT THE MUSEUM OF ETHNOLOGY & TEMPLE OF LITERATURE</span></h3>
<br />
A 15 minute taxi ride from the city centre is the Vietnam Museum of Ethnology. This museum really opened my eyes to the ethnic diversity of Vietnam - the Vietnamese aren't one single homogenous group but 54 different ethnic groups each with unique customs and practises.
<br />
<br />
The museum houses artifacts and information about the diverse ethnic groups. I really enjoyed the outside exhibition which has full size replicas of houses and buildings of Vietnam's different minorities which offers a glimpse into their lifestyle.
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-size: 0; text-align: center;">
<img alt="hanoi museum of ethnology bicycle" border="0" height="100%" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-v09gftAdUo0/WahDnKPR_pI/AAAAAAAAFjg/EguMj2lOdnoFYRiCh3Boo4KqTcGGe0lXwCLcBGAs/s1600/13.JPG" title="hanoi museum of ethnology" width="100%" /></div>
<br />
From the museum of ethnology we took a taxi to the Temple of Literature. Not only is this temple a stunning example of Vietnamese architecture, it takes you on a journey back through time - it is Vietnam's first university established almost 1000 years ago. Strolling through the serene grounds we found turtle stelae with faint Chinese characters which are the names of graduating students throughout the centuries. If you're a lover of history this temple is a worthwhile detour outside the city.
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-size: 0; text-align: center;">
<img alt="temple of literature" border="0" height="100%" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-YBxIBi6TzHo/WahDqCTW2LI/AAAAAAAAFjk/a88MmpavFSUVz_SyJrC-qHPjWN8BZI5owCLcBGAs/s1600/14.JPG" title="temple of literature" width="100%" /></div>
<br />
<br />
<h3>
<span style="color: #ff00cd; font-family: "oswald" , "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: 32px; font-weight: normal;">DAY SIX | AQUARIUM AT THE VINCOM MEGA MALL & CONQUER YOUR FEARS AT A SNAKE RESTAURANT</span></h3>
<br />
Okay I have to be honest - the day we tried to visit the aquarium was a bit of a <i>disaster</i>... but we still had an adventure nonetheless. If you want to visit a mega mall in Hanoi you should know there is more than one called the <i>Vincom Mega Mall</i>.
<br />
<br />
Originally we planned to spend our time at the mega mall with the aquarium but when our taxi took us to the Royal City Vincom Mega Mall and there was no aquarium inside we realised there was more than one. Royal City is the largest mall in Hanoi and is underground the huge apartment complex you can see below. If you want to spend a day at a Vietnamese mega mall I recommend Vincom Royal City, it is so big you could spend half a day here.
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-size: 0; text-align: center;">
<img alt="royal city vincom mega mall apartments" border="0" height="100%" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ErgV5NJdHgA/WahDt453jyI/AAAAAAAAFjo/OONX7S_7oJ8c1CIN6SpuKUBTygedgEkmACLcBGAs/s1600/15.JPG" title="royal city vincom mega mall" width="100%" /></div>
<br />
After having a stroll around the Vincom Royal City Mega Mall we went back to the taxi stand and made sure our taxi was taking us to the correct mall - the <i>Vincom Times City Mega Mall</i>. About half the size of the Royal City Mega Mall, we easily found the Vinpearl Aquarium.
<br />
<br />
Compared to other aquariums it is small - but we loved it. You will find the typical fish you see in most aquariums, in addition to marine animals unique to Vietnam.
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-size: 0; text-align: center;">
<img alt="vincom times city mega mall vinpearl aquarium fish" border="0" height="100%" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-O7i5VG8a6FM/WahDxDU9WjI/AAAAAAAAFjs/IYhxJvRY-ikXKdBVM4WaPuZHK1lSO8TxgCLcBGAs/s1600/16.JPG" title="vincom times city mega mall aquarium" width="100%" /></div>
<br />
For the adventurous foodies who want something a little more unique than egg coffee, you can find a community in Hanoi that specialises in snake. 20 minutes north of the Old Quarter, our hotel recommended the Nguyen Van Duc Snake restaurant. For one million dong the staff prepared 10 different snake dishes for us made from a single fresh cobra we chose - not a single part of the cobra went to waste! Maybe not for the faint of heart, it was a genuine Vietnamese experience.
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-size: 0; text-align: center;">
<img alt="snake restaurant nguyen van duc cobra" border="0" height="100%" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-aEprrS_yVUM/WahD0AgJD-I/AAAAAAAAFjw/U31u72cH_7I9i2zqrKkxJJAj9pT6YpjVACLcBGAs/s1600/17.JPG" title="snake restaurant" width="100%" /></div>
<br />
<br />
<h3>
<span style="color: #ff00cd; font-family: "oswald" , "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: 32px; font-weight: normal;">DAY SEVEN | ENJOY WATER PUPPETRY & TREAT YOURSELF TO FINE DINING</span></h3>
<br />
Water Puppetry is another tradition unique to northern Vietnam. We went to the Thang Long Theatre in the Old Quarter which charges $5USD for a 45 minute show. Performed in thigh-high water with singing and instruments as accompaniment, although it's a little tacky we would still do it again. At the end of the show the performers come out behind the stage and you can see how much work goes into the performance.
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-size: 0; text-align: center;">
<img alt="thang long theatre performers" border="0" height="100%" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-jLgLnof4e9I/WahD28tZOWI/AAAAAAAAFj0/zopzxyB8WDQbWEcp-9GyBYjsdFMeA7LGgCLcBGAs/s1600/18.jpg" title="thang long theatre" width="100%" /></div>
<br />
Recommended to us by our hotel La Badiane is a French fine dining restaurant with a Vietnamese flair. Compared to the cost of fine dining in Western countries it was a bargain - and a memorable way to celebrate our last day in Hanoi.
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-size: 0; text-align: center;">
<img alt="la badiane hanoi" border="0" height="100%" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-DMSzUPeSoUY/WahD6qu04vI/AAAAAAAAFj4/xKiRP-CRtEsFXB_aDNyQpdbbNNEz_XYsgCLcBGAs/s1600/19.png" title="la badiane hanoi" width="100%" /></div>
<br />
<span style="font-size: xx-small;">Image attribution:</span><br />
<span style="font-size: xx-small;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-QOJzPAA9XrY/WTVe8r_QRPI/AAAAAAAAFY8/YbByCWXnjs0hLOF_iFLUiqa08QRDmutfgCLcB/s1600/2.JPG" target="_blank">"Map tiles"</a> by <a href="https://stamen.com/" target="_blank">Stamen Design</a> // <a href="http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/3.0" target="_blank">CC BY 3.0</a> *</span> ;
<span style="font-size: xx-small;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-QOJzPAA9XrY/WTVe8r_QRPI/AAAAAAAAFY8/YbByCWXnjs0hLOF_iFLUiqa08QRDmutfgCLcB/s1600/2.JPG" target="_blank">"Data"</a> by <a href="http://www.openstreetmap.org/" target="_blank">OpenStreetMap</a> // <a href="http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/3.0" target="_blank">CC BY-SA 3.0</a> *</span> ;
<span style="font-size: xx-small;"><a href="https://thenounproject.com/term/shoe/14537/" target="_blank">"Shoe"</a> by <a href="https://thenounproject.com/lnakanishi" target="_blank">Linda Yuki Nakanishi</a> // <a href="https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/3.0/us/" target="_blank">CC BY-SA 3.0</a> *</span> ; <span style="font-size: xx-small;"><a href="https://thenounproject.com/term/diamond/131880/" target="_blank">"Diamond"</a> by <a href="https://thenounproject.com/creativestall/" target="_blank">Creative Stall</a> // <a href="https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/3.0/us/" target="_blank">CC BY 3.0</a> *</span> ; <span style="font-size: xx-small;"><a href="https://thenounproject.com/term/store/980061/" target="_blank">"Store"</a> by <a href="https://thenounproject.com/numerouno/" target="_blank">Numero Uno</a> // <a href="http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/3.0/us/" target="_blank">CC BY 3.0</a> *</span> ; <span style="font-size: xx-small;"><a href="https://thenounproject.com/term/hanger/178225/" target="_blank">"Hanger"</a> by <a href="https://thenounproject.com/creativestall/" target="_blank">Creative Stall</a> // <a href="http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/3.0/us/" target="_blank">CC BY 3.0</a> *</span> ;
<span style="font-size: xx-small;"><a href="https://thenounproject.com/term/makeup-tools/576429/" target="_blank">"Makeup Tools"</a> by <a href="https://thenounproject.com/smashicons/collection/smashicons-grooming-solid" target="_blank">Smashicons Grooming - Solid</a> // <a href="http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/3.0/us/" target="_blank">CC BY 3.0</a> *</span> ; <span style="font-size: xx-small;"><a href="https://thenounproject.com/search/?q=bowls&i=331781" target="_blank">"Mixing Bowls"</a> by <a href="https://thenounproject.com/magspitch08" target="_blank">Maggie</a> // <a href="https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/3.0/us/" target="_blank">CC BY-SA 3.0</a> *</span> ; <span style="font-size: xx-small;"><a href="https://thenounproject.com/search/?q=fish&i=1009179" target="_blank">"Fish"</a> by <a href="https://thenounproject.com/Aleksandr_Vector" target="_blank">Aleksandr Vector</a> // <a href="https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/3.0/us/" target="_blank">CC BY 3.0</a> *</span> ; <span style="font-size: xx-small;"><a href="https://thenounproject.com/term/apple/1051045/" target="_blank">"Apple"</a> by <a href="https://thenounproject.com/iconwar/" target="_blank">Alena Artemova</a> // <a href="http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/3.0/us/" target="_blank">CC BY 3.0</a> *</span> ; <span style="font-size: xx-small;"><a href="https://thenounproject.com/term/candy/1063515/" target="_blank">"Candy"</a> by <a href="https://thenounproject.com/stonuiiuntk" target="_blank">Mello</a> // <a href="http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/3.0/us/" target="_blank">CC BY 3.0</a> *</span> ;
<span style="font-size: xx-small;"><a href="https://thenounproject.com/term/t-shirt/630699/" target="_blank">"T-Shirt"</a> by <a href="https://thenounproject.com/stockimagefolio" target="_blank">Stock Image Folio</a> // <a href="http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/3.0/us/" target="_blank">CC BY 3.0</a> *</span> ; <span style="font-size: xx-small;"><a href="https://thenounproject.com/term/luggage/1013356/" target="_blank">"Luggage"</a> by <a href="https://thenounproject.com/mahmure.alp" target="_blank">Mahmure Alp</a> // <a href="https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/3.0/us/" target="_blank">CC BY-SA 3.0</a> *</span> ; <span style="font-size: xx-small;"><a href="https://thenounproject.com/term/balloon/546948/" target="_blank">"Balloon"</a> by <a href="https://thenounproject.com/arsy.design/" target="_blank">Rauan</a> // <a href="https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/3.0/us/" target="_blank">CC BY 3.0</a> *</span> ; <span style="font-size: xx-small;"><a href="https://thenounproject.com/term/compass/1066612/" target="_blank">"Compass"</a> by <a href="https://thenounproject.com/smknku/" target="_blank">ani</a> // <a href="http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/3.0/us/" target="_blank">CC BY 3.0</a> *</span>
<br />
<span style="font-size: xx-small;">* changes were made to the original materials</span>
Carlitahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10533463740017757079noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7540078356544900927.post-6124874807293179572017-05-11T06:20:00.001-07:002020-10-29T00:42:16.558-07:001 Day in Da Nang (Discover Vietnam's Secret Mountains)<i>Da Nang is a laid back coastal city popular for its tranquil beaches, thematic bridges, and mystic mountains with an ancient legacy.</i><br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-size: 0; text-align: center;">
<img alt="da nang mystery mountains" border="0" height="100%" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-5-Asd98JBV0/WSlg6K7OQjI/AAAAAAAAFOw/9KPhkWEf8j8Q_Q2g1cUJkUj609v0mH9LQCLcB/s1600/0.png" title="da nang" width="100%" /></div>
<br />
During our stay in Hoi An we decided to spend one full day exploring the best of Da Nang. We debated whether we should move our accomodation to central Da Nang, but since Da Nang is a 30 minute drive from Hoi An we thought we could fit everything we wanted to see in one day.
<br />
<br />
<h3>
<b><span style="color: black; font-family: "oswald" , sans-serif; font-size: 28px;">HOW TO SEE THE BEST OF DA NANG IN ONE DAY</span></b></h3>
<br />
Da Nang is a BIG city (3rd biggest in Vietnam) so how did we fit everything we wanted to see in one day? For us, there was a bit of compromise, picking and choosing the most interesting things we found in guidebooks and tailoring a one day private tour suited to our needs. For $60 per person our customised tour took us to the places we wanted to go with a private car for an entire day, an English speaking guide and one meal included.
<br />
<br />
<a name='more'></a>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-size: 0; text-align: center;">
<img alt="da nang lady buddha linh ung gate" border="0" height="100%" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-DLpmX2W3qw8/WSlg9D_dtMI/AAAAAAAAFO0/P-5UhGmrZt8x8_niNpHxcfiGib74vTl-wCLcB/s1600/1.png" title="da nang buddha gate" width="100%" /></div>
<br />
<br />
<h3>
<b><span style="color: black; font-family: "oswald" , sans-serif; font-size: 28px;">JOURNEY TO MONKEY MOUNTAIN</span></b></h3>
<br />
Our journey began at 9am when we were picked up from our resort and started the trek to our first destination. A 45 minute drive, we drove right through the heart of Da Nang and its pristine white beaches. If we had a few extra days I definitely would have stayed here in a heart beat.
<br />
<br />
We arrived at a busy parking lot on Monkey Mountain and I got a minute to admire the vista of Da Nang in its entirety before I was whisked away by our guide.
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-size: 0; text-align: center;">
<img alt="view of da nang from monkey mountain" border="0" height="100%" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-CSIVn5qjlLM/WSlg_UqtwCI/AAAAAAAAFO4/WmrclKV9oZcxfaSHFk2GnbTX-7HQTfShwCLcB/s1600/2.JPG" title="da nang vista" width="100%" /></div>
<br />
<br />
<h3>
<b><span style="color: black; font-family: "oswald" , sans-serif; font-size: 28px;">LADY BUDDHA (AKA STATUE OF BODHISATTVA OF MERCY)</span></b></h3>
<br />
Our guide walked us to Lady Buddha, the tallest Buddha statue in Vietnam at 67m. We spotted the monolith as we were driving towards the mountain, but up close the detail is even more stunning. It's more than just a statue though, there is a flight of stairs that leads to 17 floors with each floor dedicated to a different Buddha (unfortunately the interior is off limits to the general public - monks only).
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-size: 0; text-align: center;">
<img alt="da nang lady buddha bodhisattva of mercy" border="0" height="100%" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-pc9aG8Hl-VA/WSlhC4NUAGI/AAAAAAAAFO8/Om35vJRgt80MVGuNVOs-smKInL_uYItMwCLcB/s1600/3.JPG" title="da nang lady buddha" width="100%" /></div>
<br />
<br />
<h3>
<b><span style="color: black; font-family: "oswald" , sans-serif; font-size: 28px;">LINH UNG PAGODA COURTYARD</span></b></h3>
<br />
We strolled around the courtyard and through the temples and monks' living quarters. While for us this place was interesting in terms of sightseeing, for many Vietnamese this area is very spiritual and you will see many locals praying in the temples and monks tending to the gardens.
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-size: 0; text-align: center;">
<img alt="da nang linh ung pagoda courtyard with statues and gate and lady buddha" border="0" height="100%" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-slzXD73Ufz8/WSlhGKnzdKI/AAAAAAAAFPA/LI1c1PdSTjk9ss4XO7Wxe-rs2SyIzxthwCLcB/s1600/4.JPG" title="da nang linh ung pagoda courtyard" width="100%" /></div>
<br />
<br />
<h3>
<b><span style="color: black; font-family: "oswald" , sans-serif; font-size: 28px;">DOG FAMILY</span></b></h3>
<br />
Beyond the courtyard near the monks' houses we spotted a large group of happy looking dogs of different breeds lazying around. Our guide told us the dogs are cared for by the monks and are an important part of the community in the Linh Ung Pagoda.
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-size: 0; text-align: center;">
<img alt="da nang god in linh ung pagoda" border="0" height="100%" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-CuWiQvy_cd0/WSlhIrNRDpI/AAAAAAAAFPE/ivk7cwjY6gIMI4mPX7HwT7GxEBTF-gbXwCLcB/s1600/5.JPG" title="da nang dog" width="100%" /></div>
<br />
<br />
<h3>
<b><span style="color: black; font-family: "oswald" , sans-serif; font-size: 28px;">LINH UNG GATE</span></b></h3>
<br />
Our clever guide took us to the entrance gate of the pagoda last so we didn't have to climb up all those marble stone stairs at the beginning (good tip actually - seriously, I was tired under the heat just walking down them - theres way more than you can see in the photo). Our driver picked us up and took us to our next stop.
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-size: 0; text-align: center;">
<img alt="linh ung gate in da nang" border="0" height="100%" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-cBPpW6w_q1I/WSlhLBRMyMI/AAAAAAAAFPI/mJreVIkdOWkAOiMk5NB8ZIR3UCwmaTg0QCLcB/s1600/6.JPG" title="da nang gate" width="100%" /></div>
<br />
<br />
<h3>
<b><span style="color: black; font-family: "oswald" , sans-serif; font-size: 28px;">DRAGON BRIDGE - THE SYMBOL OF DA NANG</span></b></h3>
<br />
Apart from Lady Buddha that can be seen atop Monkey Mountain from all corners of Da Nang, the 666m long Dragon Bridge is the most ubiquitous symbol of Da Nang. Our guide stopped right here and told us that it is especially gorgeous at night when it lights up and dazzles the sky with fire from the mouth. Absolutely iconic, I wish I could have soaked up the ambience at night with a cocktail by the waterside (theres always next time, right).
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-size: 0; text-align: center;">
<img alt="da nang dragon bridge and statue" border="0" height="100%" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Xo08dNixNRE/WSlhN7UoH1I/AAAAAAAAFPM/-TVB3C73og0Na5exXNgL8129MSkOCyRrgCLcB/s1600/7.JPG" title="da nang dragon bridge" width="100%" /></div>
<br />
<br />
<h3>
<b><span style="color: black; font-family: "oswald" , sans-serif; font-size: 28px;">LOVE BRIDGE - LESSER KNOWN SYMBOL OF DA NANG</span></b></h3>
<br />
Maybe cooler than the Dragon Bridge is the Love Bridge just a few hundred metres down the Han River. Driving past I wouldn't have even noticed it, but what I love is the story behind the bridge - our guide told us the bridge was commissioned and paid for by the citizens of Da Nang, so they are very proud of it (more so than the Dragon Bridge).
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-size: 0; text-align: center;">
<img alt="da nang love lock bridge" border="0" height="100%" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-yTfrDmWTa4I/WSlhQU62EPI/AAAAAAAAFPQ/-00o9Ucxx-0ZubgzHMtwISJoky7aG08qgCLcB/s1600/8.JPG" title="da nang love bridge" width="100%" /></div>
<br />
Built on the idea of love bridges around the world, the bridge is built with metal bars and thousands of locks on it with inscriptions of each couples' undying love.
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-size: 0; text-align: center;">
<img alt="da nang love lock bridge locks " border="0" height="100%" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-MvMoKSOzTOo/WSlhS0M63BI/AAAAAAAAFPU/mbAKbVIl5aU4B2fJLLLJBfHmobE3fC-LwCLcB/s1600/9.JPG" title="da nang love bridge" width="100%" /></div>
<br />
<br />
<h3>
<b><span style="color: black; font-family: "oswald" , sans-serif; font-size: 28px;">MARBLE MOUNTAIN</span></b></h3>
<br />
After a Vietnamese lunch we headed to Marble Mountain. From the street you can spot a bit of ancient mixed in with the modern - an old pagoda right next to a glass elevator for the people who don't want to climb the 150 steep stairs (we took the stairs because we are so adventurous).
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-size: 0; text-align: center;">
<img alt="marble mountain da nang elevator and pagoda" border="0" height="100%" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-wpocivThWxw/WSlhVPjMTaI/AAAAAAAAFPY/aBG-96cnsDoRLDFgZpIzb3oneNHFFDaBwCLcB/s1600/10.JPG" title="marble mountain da nang" width="100%" /></div>
<br />
From the top you can see how odd the landscape is - a cluster of five mountains peeking over flat land. Each mountain is named after a different element (wood, fire, water, metal, earth) but tourists are only allowed on the Water Mountain.
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-size: 0; text-align: center;">
<img alt="marble mountains da nang view from water mountain" border="0" height="100%" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-9iIr8f_wvs8/WSlhXoiH7sI/AAAAAAAAFPc/OVV2aWgC6HkNX55lc2XeyLb5DoeNCPCtwCLcB/s1600/11.JPG" title="marble mountains da nang" width="100%" /></div>
<br />
<br />
<h3>
<b><span style="color: black; font-family: "oswald" , sans-serif; font-size: 28px;">BUDDHIST TEMPLES AND SANCTUARIES</span></b></h3>
<br />
Atop the mountain there are intricate statues of Buddha, 12 headed dragons and a number of temples and pagodas. Like Monkey Mountain, this isn't just a place for sightseeing, it is a very spiritual area and you will spot many locals and monks praying rather than sightseeing. But for us the sky-high backdrop next to the temples was enough of a visual treat without the personal spiritual element.
<br />
<br />
<i>Little did we know the best was yet to come.</i>
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-size: 0; text-align: center;">
<img alt="da nang marble mountain pagodas and temples" border="0" height="100%" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-m-KP1REcM0M/WSlhaq9XBcI/AAAAAAAAFPg/8GpnoZSTQhEqxT19pdxl9k5G-4BHPK8QQCLcB/s1600/12.jpeg" title="marble mountain pagodas" width="100%" /></div>
<br />
<br />
<h3>
<b><span style="color: black; font-family: "oswald" , sans-serif; font-size: 28px;">HUYEN KHONG CAVE</span></b></h3>
<br />
After 45 minutes of getting sweaty and taking too many selfies our guide enthusiastically told us we had reached the highlight of the day. Not knowing what to expect we were lead into a narrow cave lit only by the odd lamp here and there. My claustrophobia almost got the better of me until we reached a huge cave. Inside the cave there were 5 shrines and one large Buddha across the entrance.
<br />
<br />
I was amazed and did not expect to find this mysterious space in a mountain - I felt so humbled and appreciative of the wonder around me.
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-size: 0; text-align: center;">
<img alt="huyen khong cave in da nang with me" border="0" height="100%" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-6zLNPVHi7uw/WSlhdGbDmdI/AAAAAAAAFPk/QiKBYGZsiLIC-KeLQ0177ZrTCET4CbJCQCLcB/s1600/13.JPG" title="huyen khong cave" width="100%" /></div>
<br />
<br />
<h3>
<b><span style="color: black; font-family: "oswald" , sans-serif; font-size: 28px;">BREAST OF GOD</span></b></h3>
<br />
Walking down the steep stairs to the floor of the cave and to a small corner our guide took us to a line of little old Vietnamese ladies. Inside a small cavity in the cave wall was a wet stalactite dripping. The ladies were putting their hand under the water and patting their heads, some repeating this motion more than a few times.
<br />
<br />
Our guide explained to us that it is believed this stalactite is the "breast of God" and the water is a fountain of youth, so it is good luck to take some of the "holy water" and splash it on your head, so we did just that. At this point I realised how grateful I was to have come here with a guide because there are no signs about this anywhere.
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-size: 0; text-align: center;">
<img alt="huyen khong cave in da nang breast of god stalactite" border="0" height="100%" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-wzNyTuNdIRM/WSlhfsKwGAI/AAAAAAAAFPo/9VtW9abafoUH7OFoRTF00J6OzxbSE3d5ACLcB/s1600/14.JPG" title="huyen khong cave" width="100%" /></div>
<br />
<br />
<h3>
<b><span style="color: black; font-family: "oswald" , sans-serif; font-size: 28px;">GUARDIAN STATUES</span></b></h3>
<br />
Leaving the cave we noticed four elegant statues. According to local legend, the cave is guarded by these four statues, two representing soldiers and two representing Mandarins of the Court.
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-size: 0; text-align: center;">
<img alt="huyen khong cave guardian statues in da nang" border="0" height="100%" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-yszqSo0XkPA/WSlhiw2K7uI/AAAAAAAAFPs/H3Kd_W7zD380H0oQYUJACpGI5rK636b3QCLcB/s1600/15.JPG" title="huyen khong cave" width="100%" /></div>
<br />
<br />
<h3>
<b><span style="color: black; font-family: "oswald" , sans-serif; font-size: 28px;">WHAT IF YOU HAVE MORE THAN ONE DAY</span></b></h3>
<br />
I really wish I had a few extra days to explore Da Nang - this was one of my favourite days so far and I feel like there was so much more to explore. If mountains are your thing our guide told us Ba Na Hills can be accessed by the longest cable car in the world and is home to a replica French town. A short drive from Da Nang is the My Son heritage site, similar to Angkor Wat according to our guide. Da Nang is definitely more than a 1 day city, it all depends on how much time you have.
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-size: 0; text-align: center;">
<img alt="da nang view from monkey mountain" border="0" height="100%" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-tcRHh_aNUSw/WSlhlSVQpxI/AAAAAAAAFPw/qnszV25RlR0MK9bi1HENdI3VK05MoxH7wCLcB/s1600/16.jpg" title="da nang view" width="100%" /></div>
<br />
<span style="font-size: xx-small;">Image attribution:</span><br />
<span style="font-size: xx-small;"><a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/guerretto/14964869809" target="_blank">"Da Nang - Marble Mountain"</a> by <a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/guerretto/" target="_blank">Guerretto</a> // <a href="https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/2.0/" target="_blank">CC BY 2.0</a> *</span>
<br />
<span style="font-size: xx-small;">* changes were made to the original materials</span>Carlitahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10533463740017757079noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7540078356544900927.post-83025804365910873112017-04-24T06:50:00.001-07:002020-10-29T00:45:08.640-07:00Discover Hoi An, Vietnam's Ancient Town (My Amazing Experience)<i>An elegant seaside retreat, Hoi An is a meticulously preserved trading port that blends French, Chinese and Japanese legacy into a modern Vietnamese town.</i><br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-size: 0; text-align: center;">
<img alt="hoi an header" border="0" height="100%" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-VRB8wTRRWP8/WQSWi4I_ehI/AAAAAAAAE9Y/dbfZ2NTpIgM7JggQn1s2n3k5_-7Ke5LEwCLcB/s1600/0.png" title="hoi an" width="100%" /></div>
<br />
A stark contrast from the bustle of Ho Chi Minh City, we found Hoi An to be a relaxing five day escape. Driving to our hotel the atmosphere of the area was like a typical seaside resort town with palm trees lining the road and casual eateries along the waterside.
<br />
<br />
<a name='more'></a><div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-size: 0; text-align: center;">
<img alt="hoi an beach with palm trees" border="0" height="100%" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Kiwpsvap6jI/WQSWnOnB6xI/AAAAAAAAE9c/Np8EN0ZwIJMKAZL-UZUAbs2wKh6Uf_ZTACLcB/s1600/1.JPG" title="hoi an beach" width="100%" /></div>
<br />
<br />
<h3>
<span style="color: #ff00cd; font-family: "oswald" , "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: 32px; font-weight: normal;">WHERE TO STAY</span></h3>
<br />
After doing online research, we found three options for accomodation in Hoi An - inside the Ancient Town, at the beachside or Da Nang (which is a 30 minute drive from Hoi An). In the end we decided to stay at the amazing beachside resort KOI Resort & Spa. We wanted to stay out of the noise of the city centre and since our hotel offered free bicycles we thought it would be fun to do some beachside exploration.
<br />
<br />
<b>The downside of staying outside the city centre?</b> You'll be paying roughly $5USD one way for a taxi, so you'll have to decide what your priorities are (beach vibe vs. city buzz? Decisions decisions...).
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-size: 0; text-align: center;">
<img alt="koi resort and spa lake and palm trees" border="0" height="100%" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-r6sUG85s3_k/WQSWqL_5_AI/AAAAAAAAE9g/t4-BrgevGc4C9WCPqCJ3WnzZjGhiuD7mACLcB/s1600/2.JPG" title="koi resort and spa" width="100%" /></div>
<br />
<br />
<h3>
<span style="color: #ff00cd; font-family: "oswald" , "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: 32px; font-weight: normal;">INSIDE THE ANCIENT TOWN</span></h3>
<br />
A hub that can only be described as a melting pot of international influence, the Ancient Town is the highlight of Hoi An. We spent most of our time in Hoi An exploring this area and its surroundings. Every hour of the day it was packed - breakfast, lunch and dinner - there was always something exciting going on.
<br />
<br />
There is no fee to enter the town but for the handful of buildings which are not shops/restaurants you are "heavily encouraged" to buy entrance tickets to enter (its worth it though, the temples are gorgeous).
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-size: 0; text-align: center;">
<img alt="me inside hoi an ancient town drinking coconut and temple" border="0" height="100%" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-dENxyWrIdHU/WQSWv0QecOI/AAAAAAAAE9k/2xp8Jp-kFpckXvkvRwrnntETdAOJao2NwCLcB/s1600/3.png" title="hoi an ancient town" width="100%" /></div>
<br />
<br />
<h3>
<b><span style="color: black; font-family: "oswald" , sans-serif; font-size: 28px;">FRENCH ARCHITECTURE</span></b></h3>
<br />
Unlike anywhere else in Vietnam, the buildings in Hoi An are French style adorned in a deep golden yellow colour. But while the facade may be European, the interior of every building in Hoi An had a distinct Vietnamese flavour, a reflection of the hundreds of years of cultural exchange inside this once prominent port town.
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-size: 0; text-align: center;">
<img alt="hoi an french buildings yellow" border="0" height="100%" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-D79S9AXJMEU/WQSWzptylyI/AAAAAAAAE9o/lhBbZ8vchzUBxqHq6bR9jxOPMSSe1W_YwCLcB/s1600/4.JPG" title="hoi an" width="100%" /></div>
<br />
<br />
<h3>
<b><span style="color: black; font-family: "oswald" , sans-serif; font-size: 28px;">CHINESE TEMPLES</span></b></h3>
<br />
As Hoi An became a prominent port town, Chinese merchants settled and set up temples to serve their communities. My favourite was the Fukian Assembly Hall (below), a dream-like pink structure erected in the 1600's by Chinese merchants.
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-size: 0; text-align: center;">
<img alt="chinese temple in hoi an fukian assembly hall" border="0" height="100%" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-nbcRid_hLQc/WQSW26vzZgI/AAAAAAAAE9s/YkGl7rUhMS8BFeygeVnL1Myiaklf77hYQCLcB/s1600/5.JPG" title="hoi an temple" width="100%" /></div>
<br />
<br />
<h3>
<b><span style="color: black; font-family: "oswald" , sans-serif; font-size: 28px;">JAPANESE BRIDGE</span></b></h3>
<br />
The Japanese bridge is the symbol of Hoi An - a covered bridge that doubles as a Buddhist temple for worship built in the 1600's. Be careful though - you'll need a ticket to cross it (we had to go back to the entrance of the town and purchase a set of 5 tickets each!!).
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-size: 0; text-align: center;">
<img alt="hoi an covered japanese bridge with temple" border="0" height="100%" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-eXlbc-XPm0Y/WQSW5uuZgTI/AAAAAAAAE9w/07f4ZOoAlWYMa5gx9VfUr4JccSSGSmSAQCLcB/s1600/6.jpeg" title="hoi an japanese bridge" width="100%" /></div>
<br />
<br />
<h3>
<b><span style="color: black; font-family: "oswald" , sans-serif; font-size: 28px;">NIGHT LIGHTS</span></b></h3>
<br />
My favourite time to visit the Ancient Town was at night - the town is buzzing at sundown with bars, clubs and eateries. When the sky goes dark the lanterns were lit and the night market springs to life selling souvenirs and cheap eats. <b>My advice</b> - go with an empty stomach and eat your way down the night market.
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-size: 0; text-align: center;">
<img alt="hoi an night lights morning glory restaurant lanterns" border="0" height="100%" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-6ff_UEZUmcA/WQSW7wtemgI/AAAAAAAAE90/Y_5cue3yET4fDTgIFiexCDyEg0G3b43swCLcB/s1600/7.JPG" title="hoi an" width="100%" /></div>
<br />
<br />
<h3>
<b><span style="color: black; font-family: "oswald" , sans-serif; font-size: 28px;">LOCAL CUISINE</span></b></h3>
<br />
Sitting right on the sea, the Ancient Town is the perfect place to find cheap seafood that would cost a small fortune back home. Back in Australia 1kg of crab would probably set me back $100, but I indulged in this amazing meal below for $20 (can you believe it?).
<br />
<br />
But even if seafood isn't your thing there are plenty of other dishes unique to Hoi An, most famously cao lau noodles that shouldn't cost you more than $3 at any restaurant.
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-size: 0; text-align: center;">
<img alt="hoi an crab 1kg delicious food" border="0" height="100%" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-KuAEvZGy8aA/WQSW-MlzFoI/AAAAAAAAE94/XNHIOgxbwtcd22gQT48LiA3ARRdyQjzhACLcB/s1600/8.JPG" title="hoi an crab" width="100%" /></div>
<br />
<br />
<h3>
<b><span style="color: black; font-family: "oswald" , sans-serif; font-size: 28px;">TAILORED CLOTHING</span></b></h3>
<br />
Personally I didn't get anything made for myself, but tailored clothing was offered to us at every corner inside the Ancient Town. Almost everyone we encountered was enthusiastic in directing us to a tailor service - we guessed that they probably made some sort of a commission from a referral. It's probably best to shop around before you make any commitments and negotiate a price for yourself.
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-size: 0; text-align: center;">
<img alt="hoi an tailored clothing inside the ancient town" border="0" height="100%" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-kHtSdv3APno/WQSXAvXzqGI/AAAAAAAAE98/H8fDtGLpbP0IxW2_9PLCi5cVtBzRKPV2ACLcB/s1600/9.JPG" title="hoi an tailor" width="100%" /></div>
<br />
<br />
<h3>
<span style="color: #ff00cd; font-family: "oswald" , "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: 32px; font-weight: normal;">ANH BANG BEACH</span></h3>
<br />
Cua Dai was once the most well known beach in Hoi An - unfortunately it is a victim of erosion and still "under repair". Instead, I recommend Anh Bang beach. The water is clear and the sand is soft and for a small fee you can "rent" a chair for the day. What I loved the most about Anh Bang was how untouched it was modernity - you weren't hassled by the locals and the only shops nearby are restaurants.
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-size: 0; text-align: center;">
<img alt="anh bang beach in hoi an umbrellas and chairs" border="0" height="100%" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-a6PJyyvKCh0/WQSXDQakNcI/AAAAAAAAE-A/ubT7vu5F5sctpbCEiFPO7jKzDiNz1h35ACLcB/s1600/10.JPG" title="anh bang beach" width="100%" /></div>
<br />
<br />
<h3>
<span style="color: #ff00cd; font-family: "oswald" , "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: 32px; font-weight: normal;">VIETNAMESE COOKING CLASS</span></h3>
<br />
One of my favourite days in Hoi An was our half day cooking class. For $25USD we had the full experience - shopping at the local markets for fresh ingredients and taken to a private cooking school to cook 4 dishes from scratch. At the end of the day we were given a little souvenir and a recipe book detailing everything we cooked that day. Totally exceeded my every expectation.
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-size: 0; text-align: center;">
<img alt="hoi an cooking class my dish with beef" border="0" height="100%" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-uoukmkeF6Ww/WQSXGMbIDfI/AAAAAAAAE-E/9tl-5a3KVqk2dbA52Zr3x_OSbCcFti1xgCLcB/s1600/11.JPG" title="hoi an cooking class" width="100%" /></div>
<br />
<br />
<h3>
<span style="color: #ff00cd; font-family: "oswald" , "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: 32px; font-weight: normal;">BICYCLE ADVENTURE</span></h3>
<br />
I don't think I could ever muster the courage to cycle in one of Vietnam's main cities - it's crazy chaotic. But most parts of Hoi An are bicycle friendly with quiet roads. The only part of Hoi An I found intense was the Ancient Town so I mainly cycled from my hotel to the beach.
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-size: 0; text-align: center;">
<img alt="hoi an typical quiet street" border="0" height="100%" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-V3z6ckBJ0Jo/WQSXJduqHPI/AAAAAAAAE-I/SHQYC1oF8U0F-dK6z-N3vPVTu_0FBnOhACLcB/s1600/12.JPG" title="hoi an street" width="100%" /></div>
<br />
<br />
<h3>
<span style="color: #ff00cd; font-family: "oswald" , "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: 32px; font-weight: normal;">IS HOI AN VIETNAM'S MOST BEAUTIFUL TOWN?</span></h3>
<br />
I haven't seen a lot of Vietnam yet, but Hoi An definitely has that cozy Christmas postcard charm you can only find in quaint communities. Under its lantern lit streets you can find wonderful food and fascinating history. It may be small, but there is plenty to do - cycling, museums, beaches or even just wandering around - Hoi An is my favourite place in Vietnam so far.
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-size: 0; text-align: center;">
<img alt="hoi an ancient town river at night" border="0" height="100%" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-CWIMvP0mlyw/WQSXMUbxCZI/AAAAAAAAE-M/5HPIewsPRgQFZTCEgjD2hq6WFcV9DRR7gCLcB/s1600/13.jpeg" title="hoi an river" width="100%" /></div>
<br />
<span style="font-size: xx-small;">Image attribution:</span><br />
<span style="font-size: xx-small;"><a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/22490717@N02/3415919174" target="_blank">"DGJ_0983 - Last Day of Hoi An"</a> by <a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/archer10/" target="_blank">Dennis Jarvis</a> // <a href="https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/2.0/" target="_blank">CC BY-SA 2.0</a> *</span>
<br />
<span style="font-size: xx-small;">* changes were made to the original materials</span>Carlitahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10533463740017757079noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7540078356544900927.post-61861080359708585182017-04-05T10:25:00.001-07:002020-10-29T00:47:49.801-07:001 Day Adventure in the Mekong Delta (My Jungle Experience)<i>The Mekong Delta is the quintessential Vietnamese experience - rice paddies, bamboo hats for everyone and relaxing canoe rides.</i><br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-size: 0; text-align: center;">
<img alt="mekong delta one day adventure" border="0" height="100%" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-2cPX1ldexuU/WOuA9dyfMvI/AAAAAAAAExc/p6vwtg-ZbCcQ015hXo3UDC6pknd_yNqNgCLcB/s1600/0.png" title="mekong delta" width="100%" /></div>
<br />
The Mekong Delta, which lies on the southernmost tip of Vietnam, is a lush area of greenery and waterways. Offered with the option of 1, 2 or 3 day tours, we chose the 1 day tour seeing as it was not so far from where we were staying in Ho Chi Minh City.
<br />
<br />
<a name='more'></a>
<h3>
<b><span style="color: black; font-family: "oswald" , sans-serif; font-size: 28px;">FROM CITY TO COUNTRYSIDE</span></b></h3>
<br />
We were picked up bright and early at 8am from our hotel lobby. The scenery changed fast as we escaped the hustle and bustle of Ho Chi Minh City to the quaint countryside. There were less motorcycles, less trash on the side of the road and the lifestyle in the area was more laidback and carefree in general.
<br />
<br />
<i><span style="font-size: 20px;">Have you ever wondered why Vietnamese rice tastes so good?...</span></i> Our guide cheerfully asked us. As we stopped on the side of the road she carefully pointed out two red rectangular structures in the far left of the rice paddy in front of us. <i>These are tombs</i>... she began to explain. <b>APPARENTLY</b> it is customary for country people who work the land (such as farmers) to bury their family members in the land to "watch over the property". Rice paddies are also a popular place for graves because it is said it will make the rice taste better (not sure if she was being serious or not).
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-size: 0; text-align: center;">
<img alt="mekong delta rice paddy and red tombstones" border="0" height="100%" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-4-uHsMY2RQM/WOuBALNhY1I/AAAAAAAAExg/MtUGYBZCZ20qAOi_xsUsFGZehGnB1c1UQCLcB/s1600/1.JPG" title="mekong delta rice paddy" width="100%" /></div>
<br />
<br />
<h3>
<b><span style="color: black; font-family: "oswald" , sans-serif; font-size: 28px;">BICYCLE ADVENTURE</span></b></h3>
<br />
After an hour we made it to our first stop. We stepped off the bus and rickety old bikes were cycled to each of us. I was fortunate that mine was in working order - a few others had seats the wrong way round and peddles missing!
<br />
<br />
We cycled for about 45 minutes through the farm land and dirt roads. The locals were more than enthusiastic to see us and the children eagerly chased us down the road. I realised that while wealth may be scarce in these areas the locals weren't lacking.
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-size: 0; text-align: center;">
<img alt="biking on farm near mekong delta" border="0" height="100%" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-77w-M27ybhc/WOuBCpKMbPI/AAAAAAAAExk/dZqb3tCGq54FizRnLJJrnB60z2aAvq2zACLcB/s1600/2.JPG" title="biking on farm" width="100%" /></div>
<br />
<br />
<h3>
<b><span style="color: black; font-family: "oswald" , sans-serif; font-size: 28px;">VINH TRANG TEMPLE</span></b></h3>
<br />
Our next stop was the Vinh Trang Buddhist Temple. Overlooking the elaborate surroundings are 3 large Buddha - the standing Buddha at the entrance, the giant laughing Buddha and the sleeping Buddha that you can half see on the middle right hand side below.
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-size: 0; text-align: center;">
<img alt="vinh trang temple and pagoda fat laughing buddha" border="0" height="100%" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ThgCJdyspk0/WOuBFSGs6hI/AAAAAAAAExo/smMAz8l-msgvpZfmuqxk_h0t7NMGdilVACLcB/s1600/3.JPG" title="vinh trang temple" width="100%" /></div>
<br />
The best part of the temple was the intricately designed pagoda - a mix of Chinese, Vietnamese and Khmer architectural styles. The bonsai gardens and lotus pond inside and surrounding the pagoda created such a peaceful atmosphere. While I wouldn't go out of my way to come here for a day trip it was the perfect place for a 45 minute rest stop.
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-size: 0; text-align: center;">
<img alt="vinh trang pagoda mixed architecture inside" border="0" height="100%" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ek6EPlxdSK4/WOuBHkSCtsI/AAAAAAAAExs/L97auVtwvNk0CiPM3ySxOV7b-PvtHkfnACLcB/s1600/4.JPG" title="vinh trang pagoda" width="100%" /></div>
<br />
<br />
<h3>
<b><span style="color: black; font-family: "oswald" , sans-serif; font-size: 28px;">UNICORN ISLAND</span></b></h3>
<br />
Our next stop took us to the gateway of the Mekong Delta for lunch. We enjoyed a casual lunch on another farming area where we were surrounded by wild animals, plantations and the sounds of nature. Afterwards we took a boat to Unicorn Island, which sits at the entrance of the Mekong Delta. I think this is as far as most tourist groups go into the Mekong for a 1 day trip from Ho Chi Minh City.
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-size: 0; text-align: center;">
<img alt="vietnamese farmer near the mekong delta" border="0" height="100%" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-nyE6k6nTqI0/WOuBLdtny2I/AAAAAAAAExw/btUesPeR2ycKudyQ8NwyR6IEzp5taRz8QCLcB/s1600/5.JPG" title="vietnamese farmer" width="100%" /></div>
<br />
<br />
<h3>
<b><span style="color: black; font-family: "oswald" , sans-serif; font-size: 28px;">COCONUT CANDY FACTORY</span></b></h3>
<br />
Apart from being <i>somewhat</i> of a tourist trap with stalls selling the same tourist crap you can find everywhere else, there were a few cool things we were shown that sustains the local population. We were escorted to a coconut candy factory and shown the process of making the addictive candies that are encased in rice paper (really hope I can find these back home!!).
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-size: 0; text-align: center;">
<img alt="coconut candy factory on unicorn island" border="0" height="100%" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-H3TjXw7M-GE/WOuBPym_0DI/AAAAAAAAEx0/Nzs963trOtAbo8_UF0KQTR0u64bKi39cQCLcB/s1600/6.JPG" title="coconut candy factory" width="100%" /></div>
<br />
<br />
<h3>
<b><span style="color: black; font-family: "oswald" , sans-serif; font-size: 28px;">FOLK SINGING AND EXOTIC FRUITS</span></b></h3>
<br />
We walked to our next stop - a folk music show accompanied with some delicious native fruits. I really enjoyed the fresh fruits, especially the ones I have never tried before like the star apple below. I did feel awkward when we were almost forced to tip the performers, I feel like this is something that should have been included in the tour price.
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-size: 0; text-align: center;">
<img alt="purple star apple vietnamese fruit" border="0" height="100%" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-l1uWiKeLv_M/WOuBToQmyXI/AAAAAAAAEx4/065IjclLA30DXBTrcybvS3hPjA3K-rkfgCLcB/s1600/7.JPG" title="star apple" width="100%" /></div>
<br />
<br />
<h3>
<b><span style="color: black; font-family: "oswald" , sans-serif; font-size: 28px;">BEE KEEPING AND SNAKE FARM</span></b></h3>
<br />
Bee keeping and snake farming are two other industries this area is known for. After looking at how the bees make honey we were given a black tea concoction with honey and kumquat juice. Sooo delicious! I hope I can make it myself tasting so good.
<br />
<br />
Snakes are heavily consumed in Vietnam, most popularly in snake wine and whiskey. We had the chance to handle a python which was fun (and a bit scary).
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-size: 0; text-align: center;">
<img alt="me with python on unicorn island" border="0" height="100%" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-MCqqhJbPpiU/WOuBYT6zLnI/AAAAAAAAEx8/M77x7V6qGVcLxuHdrhdtkSMYGF0IokSRACLcB/s1600/8.JPG" title="python" width="100%" /></div>
<br />
<br />
<h3>
<b><span style="color: black; font-family: "oswald" , sans-serif; font-size: 28px;">BOAT RIDE ON THE MEKONG</span></b></h3>
<br />
Finally we made it to the best part of the day - canoeing down the river. The scenery was exactly how I imagined the Mekong. There were loads of boats and we got to escape the humidity for a short time under the canopy of trees hanging over the river.
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-size: 0; text-align: center;">
<img alt="boats on the mekong delta river" border="0" height="100%" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-M-J2wNeHSxs/WOuBduYlr_I/AAAAAAAAEyA/o0oN0nlJgWk3g-fQWS3dr--8W-prTbd2QCLcB/s1600/9.JPG" title="mekong delta boats" width="100%" /></div>
<br />
<br />
<h3>
<b><span style="color: black; font-family: "oswald" , sans-serif; font-size: 28px;">BACK TO HO CHI MINH CITY</span></b></h3>
<br />
After getting off the canoe it was time for us to head back to the big city. I really enjoyed seeing the casual side of Vietnam, it was like another world away from the big city. The only thing that irritated me was the constant badgering to buy souvenirs or tipping by the locals, but for a full day trip of $15 USD I don't think I have a lot to complain about.
<br />
<br />
As far as I know, most full day group trips to the Mekong Delta are very similar to this one - we constantly saw the same groups of tourists being bussed around to the same places as us. If you want to see the floating markets you would have to do a 2+ day tour, but since we had time constraints this was enough for us.
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-size: 0; text-align: center;">
<img alt="me with sleeping buddha and on boat to unicorn island" border="0" height="100%" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-e6cKBAtd550/WOuBiCg3jSI/AAAAAAAAEyE/AaqEjrIP6J4pC2fzKcI1k1I5Uqy9kNitQCLcB/s1600/10.png" title="me with buddha and boat" width="100%" /></div>
<br />
<span style="font-size: xx-small;">Image attribution:</span><br />
<span style="font-size: xx-small;"><a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/juliamaudlin/15807680049/" target="_blank">"Evening Falls Over the Mekong"</a> by <a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/juliamaudlin/" target="_blank">Julia Maudlin</a> // <a href="https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/2.0/" target="_blank">CC BY 2.0</a> *</span>
<br />
<span style="font-size: xx-small;">* changes were made to the original materials</span>Carlitahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10533463740017757079noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7540078356544900927.post-74633026756277244562017-03-27T05:41:00.003-07:002020-10-31T22:04:01.667-07:0013 Weird and Wonderful Things I Love About Ho Chi Minh City (Things to do in Saigon)<i>Known for its hustle and bustle, Ho Chi Minh City is an exciting metropolis that offers everything from outrageously cheap street food to fish foot doctors and everything in-between.</i><br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-size: 0; text-align: center;">
<img alt="ho chi minh city header" border="0" height="100%" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Oa3WcWrEH50/WNls-n9z02I/AAAAAAAAEg8/alJswcTMEoQ8xdSCh8QVBOtOTcn6IxcwACLcB/s1600/0.png" title="ho chi minh city" width="100%" /></div>
<br />
My Ho Chi Minh City experience began the very minute I stepped off the aircraft. Honestly, it's not the <i>greatest</i> tourist city I've ever visited. But beneath the chaos and disorder, it is a uniquely Vietnamese city - unlike any other I've ever visited in Asia. Not only that, <i>everything is <u>outrageously</u> cheap</i>. So after spending almost a week in Ho Chi Minh City, these are 13 of the uniquely Vietnamese things I <b>LOVED</b> about this city!
<br />
<br />
<a name='more'></a>
<h3>
<span style="color: #FF00CD; font-family: "oswald" , "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: 32px; font-weight: normal;">#01 | MOTORCYCLES EVERYWHERE</span></h3>
<br />
Hopping into a cab at the airport the sheer number of motorcycles zipping through the traffic was the very first thing that blew me away. But it's not just the number of motorcycles on the road, it's how many people they manage to fit on a single vehicle. I saw whole families of 5 on a single motorcycle (2 adults and 3 kids). And the kids didn't look uncomfortable - playing on their iphones, reading books and doing homework - they looked like they were having the time of their life. <b>So why are there so many motorcycles on the road of Ho Chi Minh City?</b> We were told on a tour that because population density is so high in Vietnam the government taxes cars at a rate of 400% so only the very rich are able to afford cars and everyone else is encouraged to use public transport or buy the cheaper alternatives.
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-size: 0; text-align: center;">
<img alt="ho chi minh city girl on motorcycle" border="0" height="100%" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-OyGrRlA7N_Q/WNltAoDLo2I/AAAAAAAAEhA/N0UpH2ys4Q09fO_GndU4tpMfN_8VFQVrACLcB/s1600/1.JPG" title="ho chi minh city motorcycles" width="100%" /></div>
<br />
<br />
<h3>
<span style="color: #FF00CD; font-family: "oswald" , "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: 32px; font-weight: normal;">#02 | ROOFTOP BARS</span></h3>
<br />
Being a lover of cocktails and nightlife, I couldn't say no when I found out my hotel (Caravelle Saigon) had a rooftop bar. It wasn't until I was up there that I realised there are rooftop bars hidden on top of almost every hotel and high rise building in Ho Chi Minh City. Sleek and classy, I found rooftop bars a refreshing way to escape for the night from the chaos below and do some people watching in a stylish atmosphere. And even though the food and drinks up there are on the pricier side, the prices are still significantly cheaper than what I would pay at home for the same experience.
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-size: 0; text-align: center;">
<img alt="rooftop bar saigon with me and food" border="0" height="100%" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-5_chMlawYYY/WNltCwkr7SI/AAAAAAAAEhE/d-Ut8ZbMBE8r_mbUtGi4IBAQZsUsG8rlgCLcB/s1600/2.png" title="rooftop bar" width="100%" /></div>
<br />
<br />
<h3>
<span style="color: #FF00CD; font-family: "oswald" , "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: 32px; font-weight: normal;">#03 | DOCTOR FISH (& CHEAP SPAS)</span></h3>
<br />
Who doesn't love to be pampered after a long day of sightseeing? And when you can get a 60 minute full body massage for less than $20 USD <i>how could you say no?!</i> I spent many afternoons treating myself to full body massages, but one afternoon walking on Dong Khoi Street I randomly found the Blue Moon Spa which offered Doctor Fish - small fish that feast on the dead skin on the bottom of your feet. I'd seen this treatment online before but never tried it myself so I paid $10 USD for a 30 minute session. The initial nibbles were hard to get used to (I am very ticklish) but after 10 minutes it was just like a soft foot massage. <i>As for the removal of dead skin, I'm not sure how effective it is</i> - but I enjoyed the experience either way.
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-size: 0; text-align: center;">
<img alt="doctor fish in ho chi minh city" border="0" height="100%" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-OF882oJH4uw/WNltF7gM4DI/AAAAAAAAEhI/9X0oJhbLAlsvFishn3purdSfd7pZuEqUwCLcB/s1600/3.JPG" title="doctor fish" width="100%" /></div>
<br />
<br />
<h3>
<span style="color: #FF00CD; font-family: "oswald" , "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: 32px; font-weight: normal;">#04 | BEN THANH MARKET</span></h3>
<br />
Forget going to big airconditioned shopping malls when you are in South East Asia - street markets is where its at! There are 2 things I love about street markets - cheap food and weird buys. After having a bowl of pho and fresh passionfruit juice here for less than $5 USD I spent a good hour traversing the market. They had the typical wares I expected in a market - knock off designer goods and cheap clothes, but also things I had never seen before - <b>like snake wine!</b> This was a first for me. Apparently it's drank for health (I still wasn't brave enough to give it a go though).
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-size: 0; text-align: center;">
<img alt="snake wine at ben thanh market" border="0" height="100%" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-290De5umVmw/WNltIfQ5XKI/AAAAAAAAEhM/o_13EhlmSL8jV28afnKAU87Aonwid2sUQCLcB/s1600/4.JPG" title="snake wine" width="100%" /></div>
<br />
<br />
<h3>
<span style="color: #FF00CD; font-family: "oswald" , "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: 32px; font-weight: normal;">#05 | BALCONY CAFES</span></h3>
<br />
Not as common back in Australia, balcony cafes are another ubiquitous fixture of Ho Chi Minh City. Almost every commercial building had multiple businesses layered on top of each other, many of these businesses were cafes or bars. It's a great way to relax and do some people watching above the bustle of the streets with a cheap drink. On the Nguyen Hue promenade was the coolest one I saw below - about 10 storeys high and six squares across - almost 60 different cafes with balconies on a single building face.
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-size: 0; text-align: center;">
<img alt="balcony cafe building at ho chi minh city" border="0" height="100%" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-lYLw57vGVXg/WNltLJIQAMI/AAAAAAAAEhQ/rt1DeqLGtjYx5-IEUmcKQtZVXwsAUZKBwCLcB/s1600/5.JPG" title="balcony cafe" width="100%" /></div>
<br />
<br />
<h3>
<span style="color: #FF00CD; font-family: "oswald" , "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: 32px; font-weight: normal;">#06 | ANCIENT TEMPLES</span></h3>
<br />
As a legacy of Chinese domination, Ho Chi Minh City is home to many elaborate and fascinating temples scattered throughout the city. My favourite was the Ba Thien Hau Temple, a stunning structure that features porcelain figurines on the roof that exhibit Chinese myths and legends. Incense cones hang from the ceiling which our guide told us is how the Vietnamese people communicate with their ancestors (I thought they were just for decoration).
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-size: 0; text-align: center;">
<img alt="ba thein hau temple in ho chi minh city" border="0" height="100%" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-vWTONvqjZlY/WNltN0AJlVI/AAAAAAAAEhU/gTYjToriKTMP5g7QZiGDCYeIRrSGcyd8wCLcB/s1600/6.JPG" title="ba thein hau temple" width="100%" /></div>
<br />
<br />
<h3>
<span style="color: #FF00CD; font-family: "oswald" , "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: 32px; font-weight: normal;">#07 | STREET FOOD</span></h3>
<br />
I spent almost everyday in Ho Chi Minh City stuffing my face with every food imaginable. But between the most expensive food I tried and the cheapest you can find, street food comes out on top every single time. A simple stroll in the city (especially at night) and you will see people with their little food carts preparing everything imaginable just like the one below. I enjoyed delicious banh mi, che dessert cups and deep fried donuts. You might think, <i>is it clean? What if I get sick?</i> Everything is prepared in front of you with fresh ingredients so if anything dodgy was going on they wouldn't be in business for long.
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-size: 0; text-align: center;">
<img alt="street food cart in ho chi minh city" border="0" height="100%" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-CDlWGGBMs58/WNltQ-DZmoI/AAAAAAAAEhY/rk9myPqHBEsyPFmAMlbFDhiID9u8rp1OwCLcB/s1600/7.JPG" title="street food" width="100%" /></div>
<br />
<br />
<h3>
<span style="color: #FF00CD; font-family: "oswald" , "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: 32px; font-weight: normal;">#08 | OMNIPRESENT COMMUNIST INSIGNIA</span></h3>
<br />
I knew Vietnam was a one-party communist country before I arrived, but what surprised me was how many times a day I was reminded of it during my stay. In front of every single official building and many posters in the city I saw the hammer and sickle flag flying proudly right next to the Vietnamese flag, just like in the Presidential Palace below.
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-size: 0; text-align: center;">
<img alt="communist symbol in vietnam" border="0" height="100%" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-lNbN9NoVTnI/WNltUG2-cXI/AAAAAAAAEhc/3II1mQjR9wwQWiW-7XFyHSmO8qIwfdKCACLcB/s1600/8.JPG" title="communist symbol" width="100%" /></div>
<br />
<br />
<h3>
<span style="color: #FF00CD; font-family: "oswald" , "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: 32px; font-weight: normal;">#09 | CAFE CULTURE</span></h3>
<br />
Vietnamese coffee is an art within itself that can be enjoyed from a plastic chair on the sidewalk to the many chic cafes scattered throughout the city. <i>Ca phe</i> as they call it, can be prepared hot or cold, and is made with condensed milk so there is no need to add extra sugar. Although Hanoi is without a doubt the home of Vietnamese cafe culture, my favourite morning coffee spot in Ho Chi Minh City was the Khanhcasa Tea House. It is a stylish shelter with elegant decor and they have a selection of almost 100 different types of teas and coffees with cakes.
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-size: 0; text-align: center;">
<img alt="coffee cup with versace symbol in vietnam" border="0" height="100%" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-dfhxP5N5BdI/WNltWPcK55I/AAAAAAAAEhg/PJ7ZmBUW2ccaCljXLgh_03IJ5Bv0ZBuFgCLcB/s1600/9.JPG" title="coffee cup" width="100%" /></div>
<br />
<br />
<h3>
<span style="color: #FF00CD; font-family: "oswald" , "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: 32px; font-weight: normal;">#10 | ZOO AND BOTANICAL GARDENS</span></h3>
<br />
Originally we didn't plan to go to the zoo - we only ended up there because we had a few free days - but it ended up being one of our favourite day trips! The zoo not only showcases a diverse range of animals like white tigers, orangutangs and albino pythons, but it is combined with a gorgeous botanical garden (so basically you're getting 2 in 1). With only a glass wall separating myself and some of the exhibits, I think it was the closest I've ever been to a tiger and lion before. There is also rides and lots of grassy open space so if you have children it is the perfect day out.
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-size: 0; text-align: center;">
<img alt="tiger at the ho chi minh city zoo" border="0" height="100%" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-kKT5relrNjE/WNltZK60h0I/AAAAAAAAEhk/-2hjv48ghXUpwJToLpez6BTAnFROVHtHQCLcB/s1600/10.JPG" title="tiger" width="100%" /></div>
<br />
<br />
<h3>
<span style="color: #FF00CD; font-family: "oswald" , "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: 32px; font-weight: normal;">#11 | BUDGET FINE DINING</span></h3>
<br />
<i>Why would you bother splashing cash at a fine dining establishment in Vietnam when there is an over abundance of cheap street food?</i> Well if you're a foodie like me it was hard to miss an opportunity to try out the fine dining establishments at a bargain price (compared to Australia at least). We went to La Villa French Restaurant one night and had a lovely 4 course (which turned into 8 individual courses) meal in an old repurposed mansion. While it was one of our most expensive meals in Vietnam, it was a memorable experience without the usual price.
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-size: 0; text-align: center;">
<img alt="la villa french restaurant what i ate ho chi minh city" border="0" height="100%" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Yjb4d0BPTno/WNltbt5V3nI/AAAAAAAAEho/O7yMA8rE-sEaHrkxFDlqXHnzMJS6UqoOACLcB/s1600/11.jpg" title="la villa french restaurant" width="100%" /></div>
<br />
<br />
<h3>
<span style="color: #FF00CD; font-family: "oswald" , "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: 32px; font-weight: normal;">#12 | KEEP YOUR EYES UP</span></h3>
<br />
Ho Chi Minh City is a compact city squeezing over 8 million people in just 2000 square kilometres. How can you fit so many people in such a small area - well we build up! Just like I mentioned the balcony cafe and bars earlier, there is a lot of exciting things going on above the ground floor of every building. And sometimes you get a peek into the private life of the average Vietnamese citizen. I often spotted people lounging in their pyjamas or half naked on their balconies without a care in the world.
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-size: 0; text-align: center;">
<img alt="naked man on balcony ho chi minh city" border="0" height="100%" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-KrDou1G-RDE/WNlte2_5VrI/AAAAAAAAEhs/vmQQOnYrgl89L2BL3kFsqIE5f4OEyddqwCLcB/s1600/12.JPG" title="balcony" width="100%" /></div>
<br />
<br />
<h3>
<span style="color: #FF00CD; font-family: "oswald" , "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: 32px; font-weight: normal;">#13 | ADORATION OF HO CHI MINH</span></h3>
<br />
You cannot miss his face - he is everywhere - Ho Chi Minh, or as the locals call him affectionately, Uncle Ho. He united the country, north and south and for that the Vietnamese are forever thankful. His face is plastered in almost every corner and room of the country, just like the statue below in front of the city hall. Propaganda or not, this was my first time in a communist country and I think I have never been confronted with such overt political propaganda before.
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-size: 0; text-align: center;">
<img alt="ho chi minh statue in saigon" border="0" height="100%" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Iw3HArSZmGk/WNlth8PiI4I/AAAAAAAAEhw/XeBIP8GiOf466nYTc3O_I03MZ597lHYxACLcB/s1600/13.JPG" title="ho chi minh statue" width="100%" /></div>
<br />
<span style="font-size: xx-small;">Image attribution:</span><br />
<span style="font-size: xx-small;"><a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/dalbera/6697753965/" target="_blank">"Temple taoïste de Thiên Hậu"</a> by <a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/dalbera/" target="_blank">Jean-Pierre Dalbéra</a> // <a href="https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/2.0/" target="_blank">CC BY 2.0</a> *</span><br />
<span style="font-size: xx-small;">* changes were made to the original materials</span>Carlitahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10533463740017757079noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7540078356544900927.post-54326872995083563102015-02-17T20:13:00.002-08:002020-10-29T21:06:53.086-07:00Peruvian Cuisine - 15 Tantalising Dishes That Will Make Your Mouth Water<i>Peru's cuisine is a reflection of two empires clashing, an old world of cultures abandoned and a new world of cosmopolitan flavours mixing and creating something new and unique.</i>
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-size: 0; text-align: center;">
<img alt="peruvian cuisine header" border="0" height="100%" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-d_YhjWSnVvA/WLWRnhcXyTI/AAAAAAAAEPM/DO7mwmY5r6oC9xbxlc09qUNl0gsP5capwCLcB/s1600/0.png" title="peruvian cuisine" width="100%" /></div>
<br />
Peruvian cuisine is one of my favourite, <b>so I thought I'd make a post using some pictures from my trip to show everyone else how awesome it is! </b>The most common ingredients used are typically corn, potatoes and chillies. The meats used are reflected by the location of the origin of the dish. <u>For example, dishes originating from the coastal cities are rich in seafood, while the dishes from inland typically use other meats, such as guinea pig </u><b>(Yes! Guinea pig is a delicacy in Peru!)</b>
<br />
<br />
<a name='more'></a>
These first two dishes are <i>Ceviche</i>, probably the most well known Peruvian dish internationally. Ceviche is white fish that has been marinated in lime and chilli, usually topped with red onions. The first picture shows how Ceviche is typically presented, with potato and corn/toasted corn, two of peru's staple foods. The second picture is a slightly different variation from Iquitos. The white fish has been mixed with oysters (you can see the shell under the onions). Ceviche is usually served as an appetizer, and <b>you will find this dish in any Peruvian restaurant you walk into. </b>
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-size: 0; text-align: center;">
<img alt="ceviche" border="0" height="100%" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-4hFVICvEtEQ/WLWRppUBa3I/AAAAAAAAEPQ/7Cv79Kq8C3Y5O2Jcyo0evT5ntOmgGa0agCLcB/s1600/1.JPG" title="ceviche" width="100%" /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-size: 0; text-align: center;">
<img alt="ceviche with oysters" border="0" height="100%" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-atIiIJXraXw/WLWRra7yP0I/AAAAAAAAEPU/zmQ_WAfNhfsHW8Sk2nUEBlLCatGC2iWFACLcB/s1600/2.JPG" title="ceviche" width="100%" /></div>
<br />
<i>Causa</i> is another mouth watering Peruvian dish. It is made from mashed potatoes stuffed by a variety of ingredients, such as tuna, chicken, olive tapenade, avocado, etc. It is topped by either olives or a hard boiled egg. My Causa is stuffed with avocado and tuna, and topped by a quail egg. The yellow decorative sauce is <i>Huancaina</i>, the most popular sauce in Peru. It is used as a side to a variety of dishes and is thick and creamy with a bite of spice.
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-size: 0; text-align: center;">
<img alt="causa" border="0" height="100%" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-QmiobwnKOH8/WLWRtNjdfxI/AAAAAAAAEPY/564iaNfr-o4UoK0y8E-p45bqNNJSCtlhwCLcB/s1600/3.JPG" title="causa" width="100%" /></div>
<br />
<i>Palta Rellena</i> is similar to Causa, except with an avocado instead of potato. The avocado is stuffed with either chicken or fish, and various seasonal vegetables. It is topped by olives. My palta rellena is stuffed with chicken and a few local vegetables.
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-size: 0; text-align: center;">
<img alt="palta rellena" border="0" height="100%" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-w0aXHDSd55g/WLWRvGyc42I/AAAAAAAAEPc/xdN3Cexvp1MTJzqBSceLblBvA_cdKgWwACLcB/s1600/4.JPG" title="palta rellena" width="100%" /></div>
<br />
<i>Rocoto Relleno </i>is another stuffed-type dish, except it uses a large green pepper. The pepper is stuffed with minced meat and cheese. Watch out though, its a little spicy!
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-size: 0; text-align: center;">
<img alt="rocoto relleno" border="0" height="100%" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ZFTRlVf4un8/WLWRwwV4kwI/AAAAAAAAEPg/WRVKm3abCJEab3imNNKjznsE8Oueom4rQCLcB/s1600/5.JPG" title="rocoto relleno" width="100%" /></div>
<br />
<i>Chupe de Camarones</i> is a thick creamy soup made from large shrimps. A variety of staple vegetables are inside, such as potato, corn and greens. Sometimes they use lobster if shrimp is not available. The soup is sometimes a little spicy, but complements the ingredients well. I really loved this dish and ate it many times during my trip.
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-size: 0; text-align: center;">
<img alt="chupe de camarones" border="0" height="100%" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-2Y3LzyOAv3w/WLWRyhucd4I/AAAAAAAAEPk/3V820E8LUksyrqyMz1l0_NFgxoD5lC-NwCLcB/s1600/6.JPG" title="chupe de camarones" width="100%" /></div>
<br />
<i>Papa Rellena</i> is yet another stuffed dish. The outside is baked potato dough, stuffed with ingredients such as egg, beef, onions and olives. My papa rellena was accompanied with Huancaina below to give it a bit of extra taste.
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-size: 0; text-align: center;">
<img alt="papa rellena" border="0" height="100%" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-DCIOrOjHWCA/WLWR0WJk_cI/AAAAAAAAEPo/4Z0O_PL0S0QhChtHLDZiM2yHKRad9QTSQCLcB/s1600/7.JPG" title="papa rellena" width="100%" /></div>
<br />
<i>Cuy chactado</i>, is an Andean dish of fried guinea pig. It is a whole fried adult guinea pig, and certainly not for the weak of heart! <b>My cuy chactado still had a bit of hair left on it, and a full mouth of teeth.</b> But if you're brave enough <i>I recommend this dish to anyone looking for a bit of adventure.</i>
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-size: 0; text-align: center;">
<img alt="cuy chactado guinea pig" border="0" height="100%" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-9b-7kIiy_Vk/WLWR2JJCHhI/AAAAAAAAEPs/gb6rbyu3o0wgFQesjsN9SvyZ_EAihzucQCLcB/s1600/8.JPG" title="cuy chactado" width="100%" /></div>
<br />
<b>Looks like a normal steak right? No, this is an alpaca steak! </b>Alpacas are another Andean animal used as a meat in a variety of dishes. In this dish it was presented like a typical steak with chips and seasoned rice. <i>The taste is very similar to beef, but maybe a bit more rubbery.</i>
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-size: 0; text-align: center;">
<img alt="alpaca steak" border="0" height="100%" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-d7XCzf_r4DM/WLWR4KjJ8LI/AAAAAAAAEPw/_Z40W_avhzomaMjyYtoS38nE8r11d4dbgCLcB/s1600/9.JPG" title="alpaca steak" width="100%" /></div>
<br />
If you remember back to an earlier post, this is a piranha I caught in the Amazon jungle. Piranhas are naturally part of the Amazon cuisine, and are pan fried like a typical fish. The meat was white and very fine. <i>My piranha was a small, but it felt satisfying eating the fruits of my own labour (lol).</i>
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-size: 0; text-align: center;">
<img alt="piranha" border="0" height="100%" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-0TqWjtKYVl4/WLWR6cxrR_I/AAAAAAAAEP0/xIi480nf7DUUBCElpPaKnydMvgJJpaKwgCLcB/s1600/10.JPG" title="piranha" width="100%" /></div>
<br />
And now for a few peruvian desserts! Below is a lucuma tart. <i>Lucuma</i> is a fruit native to the Andes and is used in many Peruvian desserts, such as ice-cream, sorbets and milk shakes.
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-size: 0; text-align: center;">
<img alt="lucuma tart" border="0" height="100%" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-LsDJQNowVLc/WLWR8QsnFMI/AAAAAAAAEP4/31ftFje3B4UemPTGztgH0IdJeyArxaK3wCLcB/s1600/11.JPG" title="lucuma" width="100%" /></div>
<br />
The four desserts below are sample of the desserts you can get in Peru. The far left one is granadilla paste with merengue on top. <i>Granadilla</i> is similar to passionfruit and native to Peru. The second and fourth dessert is <i>Suspiro a la limeña</i>. The bottom layer is <i>dulce de leche</i>, which is similar to caramel, and the top is merengue. The third dessert is <i>tres leches.</i> Tres leches is a thick super sweet sponge cake. All these desserts are famous throughout Peru.
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-size: 0; text-align: center;">
<img alt="peruvian desserts granadilla suspiro a la limeña dulce de leche tres leches" border="0" height="100%" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-A5iD2-k2Sqs/WLWR-tfLTAI/AAAAAAAAEP8/LJJQDroiJuEu_jQ7S9JQLTVOcckiq3owgCLcB/s1600/12.JPG" title="peruvian desserts" width="100%" /></div>
<br />
The last dessert is my personal favourite, <i>Churro Rellenos</i>! I ate numerous of these during my time in Peru. It is similar to a doughnut, and has sweet fillings such as chocolate, evaporated milk, or dulce de leche. My personal favourite is dulce de leche.
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-size: 0; text-align: center;">
<img alt="churro rellenos" border="0" height="100%" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-hcpjn5-3Lek/WLWSBX2qKeI/AAAAAAAAEQA/ihKv30n4FHkVUeX3i3EbzGENgpJBXG0dwCLcB/s1600/13.JPG" title="churro rellenos" width="100%" /></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Now for some Peruvian beverages. The absolute most famous drink from Peru is undoubtedly the <i>Pisco Sour</i>. It is a cocktail made from the Pisco liqueur, mixed with lime and egg whites. It is a refreshing cocktail and is drank at the end of a long hard day.
</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-size: 0; text-align: center;">
<img alt="pisco sour" border="0" height="100%" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-jGBoHRNi6Hw/WLWSD-DEBXI/AAAAAAAAEQE/3y2ItoC9X_MVymvo0a56tLEQlwUR99x2QCLcB/s1600/14.JPG" title="pisco sour" width="100%" /></div>
<br />
What kind of leaves do these look like to you? These are Coca Leaves. The Coca leaf is native to Peru and Bolivia, and while the leaf itself is relatively harmless, it is the final product that causes controversy. <b>Coca leaf is in fact the leaf used in Cocaine</b>. Coca tea is used to help in altitude sickness because many parts of Peru are so high in the mountains.
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-size: 0; text-align: center;">
<img alt="coca tea" border="0" height="100%" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-LQAGPjg1esw/WLWSGT-WHOI/AAAAAAAAEQI/1GprM6N00iYORWo_BTKMgwbjbO-uvn1awCLcB/s1600/15.JPG" title="coca tea" width="100%" /></div>
<br />
<b>Peru is a cosmopolitan country, home to many international cuisines such as Italian, Japanese, French and Chinese.</b> As a result, these international dishes have a Peruvian touch to them. The first picture below was just an assortment of seafood cooked Peruvian style, but also had Chinese dim sims that you were supposed to dip in the Peruvian sauces, such as Huancaina. The second picture is a French dish (I forget the name), but it was made using a Peruvian potato that is not exported anywhere in the world, and was cooked using Peruvian spices. The third dish was black Fettuccine, an undoubtedly Italian dish, but was accompanied with seafoods caught right in Lima and cooked in a Peruvian sauce.
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-size: 0; text-align: center;">
<img alt="mixed appetizer" border="0" height="100%" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-bZYeP3AipEs/WLWSIpcF4eI/AAAAAAAAEQM/wHzJ_NXOzXA7q-tX6ykvp4vdR1iUyv54wCLcB/s1600/16.JPG" title="mixed appetizer" width="100%" /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-size: 0; text-align: center;">
<img alt="french potato dish with cheese" border="0" height="100%" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-OKlfVBY_s24/WLWSLLMXpKI/AAAAAAAAEQQ/0GX0k3MMAgwIu2fkMi4NNR-sSM-uMQzNgCLcB/s1600/17.JPG" title="french potato" width="100%" /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-size: 0; text-align: center;">
<img alt="black pasta with seafood" border="0" height="100%" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-nLEz0C942gg/WLWSNVxPRpI/AAAAAAAAEQU/u2A9Omcc7IMPKi_Ckxmp6lzeUC3mzHZVwCLcB/s1600/18.JPG" title="black pasta" width="100%" /></div>
Carlitahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10533463740017757079noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7540078356544900927.post-40414137282274388962015-01-12T08:11:00.001-08:002020-10-29T21:08:18.700-07:00Stranded in LA (My Horror Story)<div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-size: 0; text-align: center;">
<img alt="stranded in los angeles header" border="0" height="100%" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-u1hV4Ta-aUc/WLV3l7RXOxI/AAAAAAAAENU/bpNIzB7UfJ85CH8HCEB9_ypt6HdgK1FrACLcB/s1600/0.png" title="stranded in los angeles" width="100%" /></div>
<br />
Little did I know that making a small decision like leaving my Australian passport at home when I boarded the plane inbound to Mexico City that I would be setting myself up for a big disaster on the way home. <i>Why would you do something so stupid as leaving your passport at home??</i> Well, in fact I am a <b>dual citizen</b><i style="font-weight: bold;">, </i>which grants me the right to hold two passports legally.
<br />
<br />
<a name='more'></a>Flashback to my South America trip in 2011 when I only took my Australian passport with me. When we arrived at the Buenos Aires airport we were informed that as Australian citizens we must pay a <i>reciprocity fee</i> of $200USD (if I remember correctly). This time <b>we thought we could beat the system </b>if I took only my 2nd passport that did not require me to pay this reciprocity fee at the Argentine border.
<br />
<br />
<b><span style="font-size: 30px;">BIG MISTAKE</span></b>
<br />
<br />
Sure, we did <i>beat the system</i> when I arrived in Buenos Aires because I did not have to pay the fee. However, as we were boarding the plane inbound to Australia from Mexico City we were informed by the airline staff that <b>I was not permitted to board the plane because I did not hold the right passport.</b><i style="font-weight: bold;"> </i><i>Well, couldn't I just enter Australia with my 2nd passport on a tourist visa? </i>A very big fat <i>"</i><b>NO!"</b> they informed me. Apparently, as an Australian citizen it is illegal to enter the country with a tourist visa if you are a citizen.
<br />
<br />
It was becoming very clear to me that trying to save a few hundred dollars was turning into a very big mistake. Frustrated and getting anxious, our boarding time was drawing near. We were given two options; <b>1. </b>Stay in Mexico City and get an Emergency Passport from the Australian embassy in Polanco <b>2. </b>Go to LA and try to get an Emergency Passport from there. We were lucky because since we had a stop off in LA on our way to Mexico City we already had the American Visa necessary to spend time there. So we decided to take option 2, and spend a few days in LA where we could get an emergency passport from the Australian Consulate.
<br />
<br />
We changed our final flight to three days later from LA to Australia as we were informed it could take up to 48 hours to produce an emergency passport.
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-size: 0; text-align: center;">
<img alt="my passport and emergency passport" border="0" height="100%" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-1SoH_uUmFfE/WLV3sA5U0OI/AAAAAAAAENY/krfSo0u-19YVyT3PQa59OXi9hh-s0omRQCLcB/s1600/1.jpg" title="passports" width="100%" /></div>
<br />
<b>So our attempt at saving a few hundred bucks turned into a very costly mistake.</b> We ended up having to pay extra money on changing the final flight tickets, paying for the emergency passport, paying for hotels plus all the other expenses associated with having a short trip in a city for a few days. Although we were told it would take 48 hours to make the emergency passport, it was done in less than an hour in LA.
<br />
<br />
<b><span style="font-size: 24px;">How can I avoid a mistake like this next time?</span></b> I think the best advice I can give is to make sure you do thorough research on all visa decisions I make the next time I travel. I now know for certain that <b>if you are an Australian citizen it illegal to hold a travel visa for Australia at the same time. </b>But this is not true for all countries (such as New Zealand, as I was informed by my New Zealand friend). <b>Research, research, and research again. </b>Don't make the same costly mistake as me when you go travelling.
<br />
<span style="font-size: xx-small;">Image attribution:</span><br />
<span style="font-size: xx-small;"><a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/andrei_dimofte/2241806475/" target="_blank">"Stuttgart Airport at dusk"</a> by <a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/andrei_dimofte/" target="_blank">Andrei Dimofte</a> // <a href="https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/2.0/" target="_blank">CC BY 2.0</a> * </span><br />
<span style="font-size: xx-small;">* changes were made to the original materials</span>Carlitahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10533463740017757079noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7540078356544900927.post-58815899061714748592014-10-09T08:14:00.002-07:002020-10-31T22:06:19.370-07:00The ULTIMATE Guide to Los Angeles (Things to do in LA)<i>LA is a city of dreamers and sycophants. You can become anyone you want here, nothing is too out of the ordinary.</i>
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-size: 0; text-align: center;">
<img alt="Los angeles guide header" border="0" height="100%" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-I2Btmt1v2lc/WLVifR6LXTI/AAAAAAAAEKk/bzhUoC_31wMRGBq4Z0ocP6XeTFPwFBh3gCLcB/s1600/0.png" title="Los angeles guide" width="100%" /></div>
<br />
<i>I know.</i> Its been done a million times before. A blogger making <i>yet another</i> guide to LA. <b>But LA is truly my favourite city in America. </b>It was never in our original plan to visit LA - after Mexico City we were supposed to take a flight home with a connection in LA, but due to <a href="https://www.carlita.me/2015/01/stranded-in-los-angeles-america.html" target="_blank">unforeseen circumstances</a> we were in LA for a little over 72 hours. The last time I was in LA was at the end of 2011 and we spent a considerably greater amount of time here. So taking into mind my unexpected detour I wanted to write a guide <b>showing everyone the reasons I love this city so much</b> using the experiences from my last two times here.
<br />
<br />
<a name='more'></a>
<br />
<h3>
<span style="color: #FF00CD; font-family: "oswald" , "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: 32px; font-weight: normal;">WHERE TO STAY</span></h3>
<br />
<b>LA is a big city. A big sprawled out urban metropolis.</b> When we visited LA in 2011 we stayed in two different localities - firstly in Anaheim, then we moved to Santa Monica. We stayed in Anaheim first because... <b>Disneyland, duh! </b>If you plan to visit Disneyland during your stay in LA I highly recommend you book a hotel in the surrounding area so you are first in line when the park opens at 10am. But since Anaheim is so far away from anywhere else in LA there is no need to stay there after you have visited Disneyland. Some popular places to stay closer to the city centre include Beverly Hills, Downtown LA, etc. <b>However, I highly recommend Santa Monica for a number of reasons. </b>Santa Monica sits right on the beach and is home to a number of casual and trendy cafes, hotels and restaurants. The Santa Monica pier is also easily accessible and is also home to the famous Third Street Promenade so you can get any easy shopping out of the way. If you have not hired a car, a number of buses begin and run through Santa Monica so pretty much everything in LA is accessible from here.
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-size: 0; text-align: center;">
<img alt="santa monica pier on beach" border="0" height="100%" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-sMvWoFKV1c0/WLViiQSFrHI/AAAAAAAAEKo/9wHdp_SrcuI_SirXblPDaS1k8Y35xP0PACLcB/s1600/1.jpg" title="santa monica" width="100%" /></div>
<br />
<br />
<h3>
<span style="color: #FF00CD; font-family: "oswald" , "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: 32px; font-weight: normal;">THE GETTY MUSEUM</span></h3>
<br />
<b>The Getty Museum is the real gem of LA. </b> This museum stands atop the hills overlooking LA, giving you a panoramic view from city to sea. You access the museum at the bottom of the hill from a cable tram. This museum features two huge gardens which overlook the city. Both the gardens are immaculate and many people come here just to enjoy the view. The museum itself has an extensive collection all the way from ancient Greece to modern photography. Famous pieces can be spotted by Van Gogh, Monet and Gauguin. Everything from paintings, portraits, tapestries, room restorations, benches, mosaics and photography can be found here. We spent 5 hours here. <b>This is my favourite place in LA - it cannot be missed!</b> Oh, and best part about the museum, <i>its free!</i>
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-size: 0; text-align: center;">
<img alt="getty museum garden" border="0" height="100%" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-u1izXDB5iiI/WLVik4etzVI/AAAAAAAAEKs/FlVRDerLq3Y8JpCzt9nbugzovmnkjC6awCLcB/s1600/2.JPG" title="getty museum" width="100%" /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-size: 0; text-align: center;">
<img alt="getty museum garden" border="0" height="100%" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ah727_nBWEY/WLVim3NszSI/AAAAAAAAEKw/uAI8p2I5X3oI0gTbCS2IAbxpY8jyUB3owCLcB/s1600/3.JPG" title="getty museum" width="100%" /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-size: 0; text-align: center;">
<img alt="getty museum buildings" border="0" height="100%" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-bNFm6aeV7z0/WLVioyPXpQI/AAAAAAAAEK0/yzFQZutivNUsy6W-xg-KetjVMrQzE5y7QCLcB/s1600/4.JPG" title="getty museum" width="100%" /></div>
<br />
<br />
<h3>
<span style="color: #FF00CD; font-family: "oswald" , "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: 32px; font-weight: normal;">HOLLYWOOD</span></h3>
<br />
LA is the home of Hollywood. You just can't miss it. Personally, the first time I visited Hollywood I was slightly underwhelmed. <i>Is that all??</i> I thought when I chanced upon the Walk of Fame. But it really is more than that. Outside the Chinese Theatre you are greeted with more than 200 autographs, footprints and handprints of the Hollywood celebrities. The Dolby Theatre is the home of the Oscars. <u>Yes, its a typical dirty street, miles away from the glam of Rodeo Drive and Beverly Hill, but this is where years of film history comes together and meets - this is where the magic happens.</u>
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-size: 0; text-align: center;">
<img alt="hollywood hills" border="0" height="100%" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-X8vV-F-cV78/WLViq5L8deI/AAAAAAAAEK4/r-xIHKUhoeAGT-N2nknskWgpArckL4cXQCLcB/s1600/5.JPG" title="hollywood" width="100%" /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-size: 0; text-align: center;">
<img alt="hollywood will smith handprints change the world" border="0" height="100%" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-OaCn4dta4UI/WLVitMhtGyI/AAAAAAAAEK8/Iu5qciTqlqUF0lnTbr5E_HhnC-olt9qDQCLcB/s1600/6.JPG" title="hollywood" width="100%" /></div>
<br />
<br />
<h3>
<span style="color: #FF00CD; font-family: "oswald" , "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: 32px; font-weight: normal;">HOLLYWOOD HOMES TOUR</span></h3>
<br />
It's totally <i>trashy</i>. Yet, <i>so much fun</i>. <b>A visit to Hollywood is incomplete without a tour of the homes of the rich and famous.</b> During our visit to LA in 2011 we were approached by a vendor selling tours to the homes of Hollywood. Well who were we to say <i>no</i>. <b>It was actually one of the most fun tours I did in America. </b>Our guide was lively and entertaining, and we saw the side of Hollywood that you only see in tabloids and gossip mags. Although it was a few years ago I recall seeing the houses of Christina Aguilera, Tom Cruise and Katie Holmes and Zac Efron, plus plenty plenty more. We even got up close and personal with the Hollywood sign. So yes, its trashy, but its just one of those things that make the Hollywood experience <i>complete</i>. The photo below was something I saw when we revisited Hollywood 2 days ago, <b>and totally fascinated me.</b> <i>A map to the movie star homes?</i> I thought it was only something that existed in the realm of the Simpsons. Since we were short on time during this visit I declined to buy, <b>but next time I am in LA I will totally buy this map and do a full blog post on the results!</b>
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-size: 0; text-align: center;">
<img alt="hollywood homes tour map" border="0" height="100%" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-HNC_8vXH03A/WLVivDjJ-jI/AAAAAAAAELA/f-Oaq7Ng9OYZfWHer3d3h4uq4kzQbfd9QCLcB/s1600/7.JPG" title="hollywood" width="100%" /></div>
<br />
<br />
<h3>
<span style="color: #FF00CD; font-family: "oswald" , "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: 32px; font-weight: normal;">DISNEYLAND AND UNIVERSAL STUDIOS</span></h3>
<br />
<i>I feel like its a bit superfluous to include these attractions because they are so popular world wide, however, for the sake of a complete guide here they are. </i><b>Adult and child alike, these two attractions are a must do in LA. </b>The one big distinction I will make between these parks is I feel like Universal Studios is an adult version of Disneyland - the rides are more mature-themed and intense - but both are great for families and singles alike.
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-size: 0; text-align: center;">
<img alt="universal studios sign" border="0" height="100%" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Ro0mE1m54w0/WLVixJT-2gI/AAAAAAAAELE/I6Sc9YylP8U5HyDwzOGv4FBfGlGP-9s5ACLcB/s1600/8.jpg" title="universal studios" width="100%" /></div>
<br />
<br />
<h3>
<span style="color: #FF00CD; font-family: "oswald" , "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: 32px; font-weight: normal;">RODEO DRIVE AND BEVERLY HILLS</span></h3>
<br />
Home to the rich and famous, you never know who you might bump into at Rodeo Drive. Pristine streets, beautiful architecture, and oh so <i>slightly intimidating,</i> <b>even though you don't plan to buy anything, its just fun to see where the mega wealthy come to play.</b> It's not all bad though. You can grab a decent priced dinner in Rodeo Drive just for the complete tourist experience. We had a pleasant sit down dinner at <b>208 Rodeo Restaurant</b> that was priced the same as any other medium priced restaurant in LA.
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-size: 0; text-align: center;">
<img alt="rodeo drive entrance" border="0" height="100%" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-F7E6dKxpXgE/WLVizYP9jNI/AAAAAAAAELI/cxgXFFw4qVIy1511vryVH-fF1EDfkqIHgCLcB/s1600/9.JPG" title="rodeo drive" width="100%" /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-size: 0; text-align: center;">
<img alt="rodeo drive street" border="0" height="100%" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-hka-fwEfYJg/WLVi1iaKIBI/AAAAAAAAELM/RPAeAJCHgDAVt54OTHGIEuhktS_eNdAewCLcB/s1600/10.JPG" title="rodeo drive" width="100%" /></div>
<br />
<br />
<h3>
<span style="color: #FF00CD; font-family: "oswald" , "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: 32px; font-weight: normal;">DRIVE TO ORANGE COUNTY</span></h3>
<br />
During our visit here in 2011 when we had more time we took a day drive down to Newport Beach in Orange County. I recommend taking a day trip down to Orange County because you can see a completely different face of California just outside of Los Angeles. Newport beach is free of the big commercial shopping centres, but it has plenty of little cafes and restaurants you can enjoy dinner at after walking down the beach and soaking up the atmosphere.
<br />
<br />
<img alt="newport beach at sunset" border="0" height="100%" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-XC93RUvVzNg/WLVi3_-SCzI/AAAAAAAAELQ/2z6--9kEY8wc-W9ARzKB2h0gDytbi87MQCLcB/s1600/11.jpg" title="newport beach" width="100%" /><br />
<br />
<br />
<h3>
<span style="color: #FF00CD; font-family: "oswald" , "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: 32px; font-weight: normal;">LA COUNTY MUSEUM OF ART</span></h3>
<br />
LACMA was another museum I thoroughly enjoyed. It was not hard to miss - we spotted it as we were driving up Wilshire Boulevard and the first thing I saw was the famous Urban Light sculpture at the entrance. Unlike the Getty museum this museum is not free - tickets are $10 each, but <b>considering you could potentially spend a whole day here</b> I think the price is easily justified. The permanent collection is expansive, with pieces ranging from ancient to modern from all corners of the world - Indian, Egyptian, Iranian, French, American, Islander, Japanese, <u>no culture or country is excluded</u>. There were also many famous pieces here by Picasso, Andy Warhol, Matisse and Degas. I would estimate that this museum is twice the size of the Getty Museum.
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-size: 0; text-align: center;">
<img alt="lacma urban light sculpture" border="0" height="100%" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-yHhl_x0v2x0/WLVi6reGPaI/AAAAAAAAELU/FugUKO07MuMe5RF4iS5jS3MFuQvLUPw6QCLcB/s1600/12.JPG" title="lacma" width="100%" /></div>
<br />
<br />
<h3>
<span style="color: #FF00CD; font-family: "oswald" , "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: 32px; font-weight: normal;">FARMERS MARKET</span></h3>
<br />
<b>The Farmers Markets is a great place to grab a bite for lunch, do some people watching, and grab some snacks for later. </b>There are all kinds of food selections in the open air eateries, and once you have had your lunch you can explore the other markets which offer local produce and food products to buy your own snacks for later or even some souvenirs. <i>Good way to kill a few relaxing hours.</i>
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-size: 0; text-align: center;">
<img alt="farmers market los angeles food" border="0" height="100%" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-JRseCCGCvuI/WLVi9I7PwYI/AAAAAAAAELY/KGochGddxA072gGncPv1K-I_OUbBb6VXQCLcB/s1600/13.jpg" title="farmers market" width="100%" /></div>
<br />
<br />
<h3>
<span style="color: #FF00CD; font-family: "oswald" , "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: 32px; font-weight: normal;">WHERE TO SHOP?</span></h3>
<br />
<i>Need to do a spot of shopping? </i>Being the urban metropolis it is, LA has you covered. <b>If you stay in Santa Monica like I did the last two times, you have the trendy Third Street Promenade and Santa Monica Place right on your doorstep</b>. These are two connected open air shopping centres that have a mix of casual and upscale stores for some relaxed retail therapy. On our way to the city centre we discovered another trendy open air shopping complex - <b>Westfield Century City.</b> Its not big, but has a relaxed, upscale atmosphere. If you are looking for some budget shopping I would recommend the <b>Citadel Outlets</b> which have outlet shops from upscale brands to smaller, more affordable labels - <b>bargains galore!</b>
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-size: 0; text-align: center;">
<img alt="westfield century city outdooor shopping mall" border="0" height="100%" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-cYzEFaeIF1w/WLVi_vlaPDI/AAAAAAAAELc/EYeuxz-Pmz8qlX4Yitg-9AGrGnSuz3jQACLcB/s1600/14.JPG" title="westfield century city" width="100%" /></div>
<br />
<span style="font-size: xx-small;">Image attribution:</span><br />
<span style="font-size: xx-small;"><a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/bensonkua/4924605605" target="_blank">"Just another one of those great California sunsets"</a> by <a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/bensonkua/" target="_blank">Benson Kua</a> // <a href="https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/2.0/" target="_blank">CC BY-SA 2.0</a> *</span> ; <span style="font-size: xx-small;"><a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/hisgett/15573735952" target="_blank">"Santa Monica Pier 1"</a> by <a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/hisgett/" target="_blank">Tony Hisgett</a> // <a href="https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/2.0/" target="_blank">CC BY 2.0</a> *</span> ; <span style="font-size: xx-small;"><a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/prayitnophotography/4758969753" target="_blank">"Universal Studios Logo"</a> by <a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/prayitnophotography/" target="_blank">Prayitno</a> // <a href="https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/2.0/" target="_blank">CC BY 2.0</a> *</span> ; <span style="font-size: xx-small;"><a href="https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Newport_Beach_Abend.jpg" target="_blank">"Newport Beach Abend"</a> by <a href="https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Newport_Beach_Abend.jpg" target="_blank">Patrick Pelster</a> // <a href="https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/3.0/de/deed.en" target="_blank">CC BY-SA 3.0</a> *</span> ; <span style="font-size: xx-small;"><a href="https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Farmers_Market_Los_Angeles_P1000554.jpg" target="_blank">"Farmers Market Los Angeles"</a> by <a href="https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/User:NewtonCourt" target="_blank">NewtonCourt</a> // <a href="https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0/deed.en" target="_blank">CC BY-SA 4.0</a> *</span>
<br />
<span style="font-size: xx-small;">* changes were made to the original materials</span>Carlitahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10533463740017757079noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7540078356544900927.post-78154549016335953842014-09-23T22:11:00.001-07:002020-10-29T21:13:57.468-07:008 Reasons to Visit Mexico City (Travel Guide + Tips)<i>In a strange, unexpected way, Mexico City reminded me a lot of Tokyo. One huge sprawled out metropolis with too many people and too many places too see.</i>
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-size: 0; text-align: center;">
<img alt="mexico city header" border="0" height="100%" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-5X2AFAftHiU/WLT9PT9KtpI/AAAAAAAAEGY/zmv7ab_kbWMI47esYv6JEgyqu_hzwkEpwCLcB/s1600/0.png" title="mexico city" width="100%" /></div>
<br />
The first time I visited Mexico City in 2011 I felt confused by this sprawling metropolis. There was just so much to do in such little time. Even stranger, I had never really heard anything <i>good</i> about Mexico City. No one had really ever recommended this <b>amazing<i> </i>city</b> to me. I debated whether I should make 2 entries for this beast of a post, but I think I can fit it in one. That being said, there is just so much to do here. With a population of 23 million people, this city reaches into far corners to bring together an amazing mix of food, culture, architecture and experiences. <i style="font-weight: bold;">Is it safe?</i> Everything I have ever heard about Mexico City, or Mexico in general was that it is <i>such a dangerous country</i>. But never had I ever felt in danger here. Of course, the usual precautions should be taken when travelling to any country but by all accounts, Mexico City is a very safe place.
<br />
<br />
<b>So, here are my favourite things I saw and did in Mexico City these past eight days.</b> This is by no accounts a complete list of things to do here - it really is a big, big city:
<br />
<br />
<a name='more'></a>
<br />
<h3>
<span style="color: #FF00CD; font-family: "oswald" , "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: 32px; font-weight: normal;">#01 | TAKE A STROLL AROUND POLANCO</span></h3>
<br />
Polanco is an upscale neighbourhood littered with plenty of shops and museums. A number of upscale shopping complexes reside here - my favourite is the <i>Antara Polanco, </i>a large open air shopping centre with luxury shops and many lovely gourmet eateries. Polanco is also within walking distance to many of the important museums in the city, such as the Museum of Anthropology and Chapultepec Castle. Across the road from the Antara is the <i>Museo Soumaya</i>, a museum owned by the richest man in the world - Carlos Slim. The pieces in this museum are part of his personal collection. The first thing that caught my eye was its luminous silver exterior. The collection inside is just as impressive. This museum is the most visited in Mexico so its a must do (plus, its free!). <b>Everytime we visit Mexico City we stay in Polanco - its just so convenient and easy to get around from here, plus there is so much to do in this district. </b>
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-size: 0; text-align: center;">
<img alt="antara polanco inside" border="0" height="100%" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-O5h6m2kPg30/WLT9R6xF9CI/AAAAAAAAEGc/SDmaGAAkmYcNCGKH0Yxo026DodUZcaJgQCLcB/s1600/1.JPG" title="antara polanco" width="100%" /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-size: 0; text-align: center;">
<img alt="museo soumaya" border="0" height="100%" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-JoMtbHxoUak/WLT9Tjg5ZZI/AAAAAAAAEGg/8Mp2wTdvc7oweqQ0lBllglztF_H_WA8_ACLcB/s1600/2.jpg" title="museo soumaya" width="100%" /></div>
<br />
<br />
<h3>
<span style="color: #FF00CD; font-family: "oswald" , "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: 32px; font-weight: normal;">#02 | BUY SOME SOUVENIRS AT THE ARTESIAN MARKET LA CIUDADELA</span></h3>
<br />
This place is a real gem. I can say without a doubt <b>this is the best artesian market I have ever visited. </b>If you are into art or handicrafts, this place is paradise. This place has everything. There are handicrafts from all the different regions of Mexico, arts, clothes, candy jewellery, ornaments, food, the list goes on. And even better- everything is extremely cheap. It is conveniently located close to the city centre and we spent a total of 3 hours strolling here- it is enormous. The first picture below is an example of Alebrije, folk art from Oaxaca. It is colourful painted wood of mythical creatures. The second picture is bead art by the Huichol people of Jalisco. They make ornaments such as skulls, masks, jewellery and animals, but they are also highly influenced by religious themes too.
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-size: 0; text-align: center;">
<img alt="Alebrije sculpture from artesian market la ciudadela" border="0" height="100%" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-CR3WnEYT_Xc/WLT9Vjax8UI/AAAAAAAAEGk/DgAbOzihKekoupOIiHjwotcQBF6l11oKQCLcB/s1600/3.JPG" title="Alebrije" width="100%" /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-size: 0; text-align: center;">
<img alt="bead art sculpture from artesian market la ciudadela" border="0" height="100%" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-cfSIudzFyHw/WLT9X8Kgr5I/AAAAAAAAEGo/z_S8fj655UoFDzjAhdAPLFGPk6EFQrtvgCLcB/s1600/4.JPG" title="bead art" width="100%" /></div>
<br />
<br />
<h3>
<span style="color: #FF00CD; font-family: "oswald" , "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: 32px; font-weight: normal;">#03 | VISIT THE NATIONAL MUSEUM OF ANTHROPOLOGY</span></h3>
<br />
This museum features the best archaeological finds in Mexico. The entry fee is very affordable, and it took us half a day to cover it top to bottom. Each area of the museum is dedicated to a different region of Mexican culture, from the Aztecs to Mayans to the Olmecs. The collection is very impressive and is friendly to both Spanish and English speaking visitors. <b>Even if you are not a history buff this museum is unmissable. </b>The outside grounds are also wonderful to walk around as there are reconstructions of archaeological finds from all around Mexico. <b>Without a doubt, one of the best places in Mexico City.</b>
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-size: 0; text-align: center;">
<img alt="national museum of anthropology mexico city" border="0" height="100%" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-hkb5VWvtTdA/WLT9Z5_GqcI/AAAAAAAAEGs/LMdPdv7jr4wD-1RGuuD37TKijefw7MG_wCLcB/s1600/5.JPG" title="national museum of anthropology" width="100%" /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-size: 0; text-align: center;">
<img alt="national museum of anthropology mexico city" border="0" height="100%" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-EeJRGYNI-eg/WLT9b0AvegI/AAAAAAAAEGw/bVVewH0Ppx0YOc6CZDc97vV7RSKSVlo0wCLcB/s1600/6.JPG" title="national museum of anthropology" width="100%" /></div>
<br />
<br />
<h3>
<span style="color: #FF00CD; font-family: "oswald" , "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: 32px; font-weight: normal;">#04 | STAND IN AWE OF THE ZOCALO</span></h3>
<br />
The Zocalo is located in the heart of Mexico City. Surrounding the main square lies the National Palace, the Main Cathedral and the Federal Buildings. This overwhelmingly huge square frequently features exhibitions and shows throughout the year because of its ideal location and expansive space - <b>there is always plenty going on to keep people entertained</b>. Just outside the square are the shopping districts with lots of little cafes and restaurants which are convenient. If you wake up early enough you can even see the raising of the Mexican flag which lies in the centre of the square every morning. Just don't forget to visit the Cathedral and National Palace before you leave.
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-size: 0; text-align: center;">
<img alt="zocalo mexico city" border="0" height="100%" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-1elqoqRX-UU/WLT9d7ELrXI/AAAAAAAAEG0/sAE5UqjHse4EcdSwpKpNVYAKv30xngqPACLcB/s1600/7.jpg" title="zocalo" width="100%" /></div>
<br />
<br />
<h3>
<span style="color: #FF00CD; font-family: "oswald" , "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: 32px; font-weight: normal;">#05 | SEE A SHOW AT THE PALACE OF BEAUTIFUL ARTS</span></h3>
<br />
Probably the "prettiest" building in the city is the Palace of Beautiful Arts. Not just a concert hall, we were able to go inside and see a few free exhibitions. One of the interesting features of this structure is that its completely made of marble. <b>Because it is so heavy, the building is actually sinking into the ground - since it was built 100 years ago it has sunk 7 meters.</b> When you get up close you can see the areas which have sunk. Nonetheless, this majestic building is the centre of cultural activities in Mexico, from folklore dance to holding frequent exhibitions and housing international stars such as Pavarotti. <b>Even if you don't want to see the ballet just step inside for a quick peek.</b>
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-size: 0; text-align: center;">
<img alt="Palace of Beautiful Arts mexico city" border="0" height="100%" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Bzz2wvmEmQM/WLT9gAVckuI/AAAAAAAAEG4/ZuDC-x4u86ULPnNgSQmG2ufDdazVHH2CgCLcB/s1600/8.JPG" title="Palace of Beautiful Arts" width="100%" /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-size: 0; text-align: center;">
<img alt="Palace of Beautiful Arts interior" border="0" height="100%" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-hlJHiIVsWpc/WLT9ickSyCI/AAAAAAAAEG8/yul2fUgBT_ou_tcZAp83vrlYFyM0vyFFwCLcB/s1600/9.JPG" title="Palace of Beautiful Arts" width="100%" /></div>
<br />
<br />
<h3>
<span style="color: #FF00CD; font-family: "oswald" , "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: 32px; font-weight: normal;">#06 | TAKE AN EVENING STROLL DOWN PASEO DE LA REFORMA</span></h3>
<br />
Paseo De La Reforma is the widest avenues in Mexico, splitting the city diagonally, home to countless embassies, restaurants, art exhibitions and tourist attractions. This avenue spills with the history of the city, blending local and tourists alike together. This is the happening place for action in the city. We stumbled across the Angel of Independence, a mausoleum dedicated to war heroes of the Mexican Independence. <b>The Angel is easily one of the most recognisable landmarks of Mexico City.</b><br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-size: 0; text-align: center;">
<img alt="Paseo De La Reforma angel and concert" border="0" height="100%" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-gS_okzO8TJc/WLT9k_bAXzI/AAAAAAAAEHA/U3j7IfDdldQBXiW4Q3wGk7yvg5DldT0wACLcB/s1600/10.jpg" title="Paseo De La Reforma" width="100%" /></div>
<br />
<br />
<h3>
<span style="color: #FF00CD; font-family: "oswald" , "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: 32px; font-weight: normal;">#07 | GET LOST IN THE CITY CENTRE</span></h3>
<br />
<b>The city centre of Mexico is really quite majestic.</b> Long streets with tall sandstone buildings and ultra wide avenues paired with narrow cobblestone streets. We spent quite a bit of time walking around the city centre - sometimes getting to know a city isn't just about seeing the big landmarks but also seeing how the locals spend time shopping and eating.
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-size: 0; text-align: center;">
<img alt="mexico city streets" border="0" height="100%" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-LmRLip3Y1v0/WLT9nV790oI/AAAAAAAAEHE/72wgPn-DVdg0xu3obk_h66PRWYYeHEreQCLcB/s1600/11.JPG" title="mexico city" width="100%" /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-size: 0; text-align: center;">
<img alt="mexico city streets" border="0" height="100%" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-SiaLigH-kDo/WLT9qX3dVrI/AAAAAAAAEHI/pLprDEoryXwGqdKXRqjQcgQ9PnJTcmKAgCLcB/s1600/12.JPG" title="mexico city" width="100%" /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-size: 0; text-align: center;">
<img alt="mexico city streets" border="0" height="100%" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-sbZeQpDNMUs/WLT9s1xNwwI/AAAAAAAAEHM/0EgleFHXopQCfIyat50GoIX338UF08frQCLcB/s1600/13.JPG" title="mexico city" width="100%" /></div>
<br />
<br />
<h3>
<span style="color: #FF00CD; font-family: "oswald" , "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: 32px; font-weight: normal;">#08 | TAKE A DAY TRIP TO TEOTIHUACAN</span></h3>
<br />
Teotihuacan is an archaeological site about an hour drive from Mexico City. The pyramids and city was estimated to be built around 2000 years ago. In the second picture you can see me walking down the <i>Avenue of the Dead</i> to the <i>Pyramid of the Sun. </i>This pyramid is the third largest pyramid in the world. The <i>Pyramid of the Moon</i> which you can see in the first picture is a slightly smaller pyramid. You can climb up both pyramids, but trust me, its not easy! It is believed that both pyramids were used as sacrificial altars to the ancient gods. There is also a museum and parts of the ancient city that remain intact. <b>Simply amazing is all I can say. Set one day aside and do not miss the great pyramids of Mexico.</b>
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-size: 0; text-align: center;">
<img alt="teotihuacan" border="0" height="100%" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Kn4FZh8gB-4/WLT9vNsGQGI/AAAAAAAAEHQ/mtmQvXpXU2kXByAeRzoiD4Ns0QdZJ2njQCLcB/s1600/14.jpg" title="teotihuacan" width="100%" /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-size: 0; text-align: center;">
<img alt="teotihuacan and me" border="0" height="100%" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-zt4j5ND8StM/WLT9xGUuZrI/AAAAAAAAEHY/kdljW7OPcYMKNdkdSmIvb-SNDe5PdqOUQCLcB/s1600/15.JPG" title="teotihuacan" width="100%" /></div>
<br />
<span style="font-size: xx-small;">Image attribution:</span><br />
<span style="font-size: xx-small;"><a href="https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Palacio_de_Bellas_Artes_vista_desde_el_edificio_Sears.JPG" target="_blank">"Palacio de Bellas Artes"</a> by <a href="https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Palacio_de_Bellas_Artes_vista_desde_el_edificio_Sears.JPG" target="_blank">
Enrique Grandos Salas</a> // <a href="https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/3.0/deed.en" target="_blank">CC BY-SA 3.0</a> *</span> ; <span style="font-size: xx-small;"><a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/criminalintent/16493910467" target="_blank">"Museo Soumaya"</a> by <a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/criminalintent/" target="_blank">Lars Plougmann</a> // <a href="https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/2.0/" target="_blank">CC BY-SA 2.0</a> *</span> ; <span style="font-size: xx-small;"><a href="https://es.wikipedia.org/wiki/Archivo:Mexico_City_Zocalo.jpg" target="_blank">"Zocalo"</a> by <a href="https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/User:SElefant" target="_blank">
User:SElefant</a> // <a href="https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/3.0/deed.es" target="_blank">CC BY-SA 3.0</a> *</span> ; <span style="font-size: xx-small;"><a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/29792566@N08/4998069370" target="_blank">"Mexico City Bicentennial"</a> by <a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/29792566@N08/" target="_blank">
Spot Us</a> // <a href="https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/2.0/" target="_blank">CC BY-SA 2.0</a> *</span> ; <span style="font-size: xx-small;"><a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/herbert-spencer/59183030/" target="_blank">"Teotihuacán"</a> by <a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/herbert-spencer/" target="_blank">Herbert Spencer</a> // <a href="https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/2.0/" target="_blank">CC BY-SA 2.0</a> *</span>
<br />
<span style="font-size: xx-small;">* changes were made to the original materials</span>Carlitahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10533463740017757079noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7540078356544900927.post-89685566045616692702014-09-12T21:35:00.005-07:002020-11-13T05:54:27.673-08:00Santa Maria Tonantzintla : Inside Mexico's Most Mysterious Church and Cholula<i>Mexico is spilling with nature, charming villages and bustling cities. But if you travel between cities you will certainly come across something beautiful and unexpected on your way.</i><br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-size: 0; text-align: center;">
<img alt="cholula and santa maria tonantzintla header" border="0" height="100%" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-y9ILE47Lcms/WdEg94KHZTI/AAAAAAAAGH4/VTCnThQLaJ046e0U_c-h56D4yTbA2YAtwCLcBGAs/s1600/0.jpg" title="cholula santa maria tonantzintla" width="100%" /></div>
<br />
After our one night stay in Puebla, we had originally planned to head straight back to Mexico City. But after talking to some locals, we were heavily recommended to do a small day trip to Puebla's neighbouring city, Cholula. In Mexico, Cholula is known as <i>the city of 365 churches </i>(but we learnt from our tour guide there are in fact only 37). The locals of Puebla told us we <b>must must must</b> visit the church on top of the Aztec pyramid and we <b>must must must</b> visit Santa Maria Tonantzintla.<br />
<br />
<a name='more'></a>
Since we still had plenty of time left in Mexico City, we booked the trip.
<br />
<br />
<b>Depending on your budget and time constraints there are a number of different tour options you can choose.</b> Day trips from Mexico City to Cholula are even offered because they are so close. Because we planned to drive back to Mexico City that night we chose the cheaper half day option which took us to only the most important places in Cholula.
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-size: 0; text-align: center;">
<img alt="talavera ceramics potplants on wall" border="0" height="100%" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-bXgs2ecj3Z0/WdEhAK5A56I/AAAAAAAAGH8/AjhvuZpme-QYVnatLTcB_TunQ2ob3SNPgCLcBGAs/s1600/1.JPG" title="talavera" width="100%" /></div>
<br />
On our way to Cholula we were taken to a Talavera pottery factory on the outskirts of Puebla. Apparently, <i>authentic </i>Talavera only comes from around Puebla because the clay in this area is used in the traditional production process for over 500 years. Only the most unique and intricate designs are found and made in Puebla (such as the gorgeous wall plant holders above). But damn, its expensive - the small plant holder was $40USD. <b>So if you want authentic Talavera be prepared to pay big bucks for it.</b> After an hour at the factory we made our way to Cholula.
<br />
<br />
<b><span style="font-size: 24px;">My First Impression of Downtown Cholula?</span></b> It reminded me a lot of San Miguel de Allende. But in a manufactured inauthentic way. Don't get me wrong, downtown Cholula is <u>very pretty</u> (the streets are a lot cleaner too), but it just does not have the charm of San Miguel. <i>But this isn't why we came to Cholula. The best was yet to come.</i>
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-size: 0; text-align: center;">
<img alt="cholula building la lunita" border="0" height="100%" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-joFV5eHGSx8/WdEhCAI3jRI/AAAAAAAAGIA/DbO8_Bg5rG4Nx4j5vZ71FNTHLNPH_fnMwCLcBGAs/s1600/2.JPG" title="cholula" width="100%" /></div>
<br />
<b>Cholula is home to the largest pre-Columbian pyramid in Mexico. Actually no, not just Mexico, the </b><u style="font-weight: bold;">Great Pyramid of Cholula</u><b> is the largest pyramid (by volume) in the world </b><b style="font-style: italic;">(bigger than the Egyptian pyramids!) </b>However, because it has not been fully excavated and nature has taken over you can only see part of the pyramid at the bottom. From the distance it looks like a natural hill. On the top of the pyramid is a church which the Spanish built to impose "superiority" over the existing native architecture.
<br />
<br />
The church on top, <i>Church of our Lady of Remedies</i> is quaint and pretty, with a stunning view of the surrounding city and the two volcanoes nearby, <b>but you have to work for it</b>. The hike is very steep and had me huffing and puffing after the half hour trip to the top.
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-size: 0; text-align: center;">
<img alt="Church of our Lady of Remedies cholula" border="0" height="100%" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-fuQUaB3X2Ps/WdEhD_iuDXI/AAAAAAAAGIE/yi0jhfKeyZgv7i5crtlewMWkv02D9439gCLcBGAs/s1600/3.JPG" title="cholula church" width="100%" /></div>
<br />
Finally I made it to the top... I was so grateful there was a little convenience store so I could buy a cold drink. <i>In one word, I would describe the church as quaint.</i> The interior has a simple, yet impressive design. <b><i>Totally worth the hike.</i></b>
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-size: 0; text-align: center;">
<img alt="Church of our Lady of Remedies cholula" border="0" height="100%" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-LulZJO_OYxU/WdEhGIbCUsI/AAAAAAAAGII/6ayQmqxMtfEKTa67duXlWi1z3l04zZdZACLcBGAs/s1600/4.JPG" title="cholula church" width="100%" /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-size: 0; text-align: center;">
<img alt="Church of our Lady of Remedies cholula" border="0" height="100%" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-pP0yK-lGlOU/WdEhISpXnfI/AAAAAAAAGIM/MVMsELpGrrQ9IU98gxPsPtWLqJis5D51wCLcBGAs/s1600/5.JPG" title="Church cholula" width="100%" /></div>
<br />
But people don't hike to the top just to see the church. Cholula's proximity to Mexico's most famous volcano, Popocatepetl makes the top of the pyramid the perfect place to catch a glimpse of its snow covered dome. Although we were lucky to get a perfect view of Popocatepetl in the middle of the day, it is typically recommended to get here first thing in the morning to get a picture perfect view before mist begins to cover the sky. <u>Popocatepetl is still active so the sky can get pretty misty and cloudy from time to time.</u> <b>So now you have two awesome reasons to visit Cholula - see the largest pyramid in the world and get up close and personal with the tallest volcano in Mexico.</b>
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-size: 0; text-align: center;">
<img alt="Popocatepetl mexico cholula" border="0" height="100%" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-wGCQlmWrh8Y/WdEhKAyXpyI/AAAAAAAAGIQ/LWTsVAMXTZEB8-mOhbA6z3ASgsVd7e47QCLcBGAs/s1600/6.jpg" title="Popocatepetl" width="100%" /></div>
<br />
<b><span style="font-size: 24px;">How About a Traditional Mexican Snack....</span></b> <i>Fried Grasshoppers anyone?</i> At the bottom of the pyramid there are many vendors selling snacks, drinks and fresh fruit. <b>Yes I tried one and yes it was delicious.</b>
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-size: 0; text-align: center;">
<img alt="grasshoppers in cholula" border="0" height="100%" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-qfr6AeXHHPc/WdEhNQ3BFvI/AAAAAAAAGIU/on21cG9EmbMPI1G33SxvupUDk3u7naIQACLcBGAs/s1600/7.JPG" title="grasshoppers" width="100%" /></div>
<br />
Next we visited the church of Santa Maria Tonantzintla. The outside is nothing special. <i>Was this really the church everyone was raving about?</i> <b>But as soon as I stepped into the church I was breathtaken. <u>This has to be the most beautiful church I have ever visited.</u></b> The decoration covering every wall is so intricate and detailed, like nothing I had ever seen before. It was like an explosion of indigenous baroque with the decorative design, faces and nature all in one.
<br />
<br />
<b><i><span style="font-size: 30px;">I Was Completely and Utterly Enchanted.</span></i></b>
<br />
<br />
We were told this church was built by the indigenous people, and is completely unique in Mexico (maybe even the entire world). <u>An interesting little nugget of information - apparently the indigenous artists of the church incorporated their own Aztec gods into the wall decorations so they could worship their own gods and the god imposed onto them at the same time.</u> <i>I think I've found a new favourite place in Mexico!</i>
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-size: 0; text-align: center;">
<img alt="Santa Maria Tonantzintla exterior cholula" border="0" height="100%" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-4Y0fzfDhpJQ/WdEhQfjgk-I/AAAAAAAAGIY/iy4vwUAcOpwQtLPZyQbZcWFzQKq7iUFWQCLcBGAs/s1600/8.JPG" title="Santa Maria Tonantzintla" width="100%" /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-size: 0; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-size: 0; text-align: center;">
<img alt="Santa Maria Tonantzintla interior beautiful" border="0" height="100%" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-cbilf4ydlpI/WdEhS2O9pTI/AAAAAAAAGIc/pOxo4oHduFw5ekB17J_BBbNPqaO5MNqhQCLcBGAs/s1600/9.JPG" title="Santa Maria Tonantzintla" width="100%" /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-size: 0; text-align: center;">
<img alt="Santa Maria Tonantzintla interior beautiful" border="0" height="100%" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-LUbN7eewPQg/WdEhVV6lhMI/AAAAAAAAGIg/-LtlLTJodvIZgd0X3q3ZOQ-9ftY_IO4rACLcBGAs/s1600/10.JPG" title="Santa Maria Tonantzintla" width="100%" /></div>
<br />
Finally it was time for our journey to end. All in all, I think Cholula is a great place to take a day trip from either Puebla or Mexico City. It's a small city with a lot to offer- pyramids, volcanoes and beautiful intricate churches. <b>Go out of your way and budget a day to spend in Cholula and visit Santa Maria Tonantzintla!</b>
<br />
<br />
<i>And here is a truck filled with piñatas (spotted on the drive home). Can't get anymore Mexican than that.</i>
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-size: 0; text-align: center;">
<img alt="truck cholula with pinata" border="0" height="100%" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-dt5pG1jENqs/WdEhXtaRXTI/AAAAAAAAGIk/Xw9Pafa3QPUGRoIv9403fMSjpIXzPAuHQCLcBGAs/s1600/11.JPG" title="truck cholula" width="100%" /></div>
<br />
<span style="font-size: xx-small;">Image attribution:</span><br />
<span style="font-size: xx-small;"><a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/robphoto/5565186446/" target="_blank">"Popocatepetl"</a> by <a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/robphoto/" target="_blank">Russ Bowling</a> // <a href="https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/2.0/" target="_blank">CC BY 2.0</a> *</span> ;
<span style="font-size: xx-small;"><a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/robphoto/2814218519" target="_blank">"Cholula, Mexico"</a> by <a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/robphoto/" target="_blank">
Russ Bowling</a> // <a href="https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/2.0/" target="_blank">CC BY 2.0</a> *</span>
<br />
<span style="font-size: xx-small;">* changes were made to the original materials</span>
Carlitahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10533463740017757079noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7540078356544900927.post-401641400027382752014-09-03T20:44:00.001-07:002020-10-29T21:19:30.566-07:0024 Hours in Puebla (Day Trip from Mexico City to Puebla)<i>With plenty of time to play in the capital, we decided to drive to the old colonial city of Puebla, just an hour away from Mexico City.</i><br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-size: 0; text-align: center;">
<img alt="puebla header" border="0" height="100%" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-qn4QgR8maHk/WLOtQ7UzJuI/AAAAAAAAEAM/OW3NLybT9NUbaNmAe8azAm1ALf7tLriUwCLcB/s1600/0.png" title="puebla" width="100%" /></div>
<br />
After arriving back in Mexico City and realising we had more than a week until we were due to fly home we decided to drive to Puebla and do some sightseeing. <b>Only an hour from the capital, it was the perfect overnight destination.</b>
<br />
<br />
<a name='more'></a>
Compared to Mexico City, Puebla is a small city. Flipping through a guidebook before we left, I learnt Puebla holds many impressive titles, such as being the birthplace of Cinco de Mayo, the only place in the world where Talavera ceramics are made, the birthplace of Mexican gastronomy, is home to the largest volcano in Mexico and the smallest volcano in the world, <i>and on top of all that, the entire city is a World Heritage Site. </i><b>Knowing all this made me very excited to visit, even if for just a short time.</b>
<br />
<br />
<b><span style="font-family: oswald , sans-serif; font-size: 28px; color: black;">HOW CAN YOU MAKE THE MOST OF YOUR TIME IN A CITY WHERE YOU WILL SPEND ONLY A LITTLE TIME?</span></b>
<br />
<br />
Armed with a handful of maps from our hotel and a list of <i>Tripadvisors top things to do in Puebla</i>, we headed to the main square hoping to cross off the main things to see on our personal sightseeing itinerary. And then we spotted a tour bus sitting on one of the corners of the main square. <i>Awesome. </i><b style="font-style: italic;">Tour buses are the best way to see a lot in the smallest time possible. </b>We hopped on and let the professionals guide us around this picturesque city.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-size: 0; text-align: center;">
<img alt="puebla park" border="0" height="100%" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-7xRHbXWhuDg/WLOtTvRqbHI/AAAAAAAAEAQ/s54kZ6GQg_8lGvrJRtPCGxUnTUoChWhIACLcB/s1600/1.JPG" title="puebla " width="100%" /></div>
<br />
Pictured above is the main square aka <i>Zocalo</i> right at the corner we caught the bus. With lush greenery surrounded by cafes and churches, vendors and street entertainers, there's a lot happening here. Not too crowded, its a pleasant place for relaxing and people watching.
<br />
<br />
<b><span style="font-family: oswald , sans-serif; font-size: 28px; color: black;">THE WALLS ARE COVERED IN CERAMICS</span></b>
<br />
<br />
As the home of Talavera pottery, you will see the ceramics everywhere, <i>even decorating the walls of the buildings of the city. </i>Yellow, red, white and blue, you'll see every colour and pattern on buildings decorated entirely by Talavera ceramics.
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-size: 0; text-align: center;">
<img alt="puebla wall ceramics" border="0" height="100%" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-hkUS-4VagrY/WLOtWhmxIUI/AAAAAAAAEAU/ViYenNR7eV4N8CHKqO62vmjsurjcdNtsQCLcB/s1600/2.jpg" title="puebla walls" width="100%" /></div>
<br />
<b><span style="font-family: oswald , sans-serif; font-size: 28px; color: black;">THE WALLS NOT COVERED IN CERAMICS ARE JUST AS BEAUTIFUL</span></b>
<br />
<br />
Some cities in Mexico have a bit of a graffiti problem. But this problem is absent in Puebla. Instead, the bus drove us to a square just outside the city centre decorated with beautiful murals.
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-size: 0; text-align: center;">
<img alt="puebla wall graffiti" border="0" height="100%" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ME6c2szAgKM/WLOtY3MvoXI/AAAAAAAAEAY/sa-1S8xT-Ngnlo6r8vKnuoAA0GVtIHgTgCLcB/s1600/3.JPG" title="puebla " width="100%" /></div>
<br />
<b><span style="font-family: oswald , sans-serif; font-size: 28px; color: black;">SEE AN ACTIVE VOLCANO</span></b>
<br />
<br />
The bus took us to the highest point in Puebla, where we were given a first class view of the Popocatepetl and Iztaccihuatl volcanoes. It's usually best to go first thing in the morning because the sky gets misty during the afternoon, but if you look carefully you can still see the outline of both the volcanoes imposing on the city.
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-size: 0; text-align: center;">
<img alt="Popocatepetl puebla view" border="0" height="100%" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-OXe0ew44jD0/WLOtaudRcaI/AAAAAAAAEAc/-HyG-khIOloZHzxI59R1QxCzLXEZEo64wCLcB/s1600/4.jpg" title="puebla volcano" width="100%" /></div>
<br />
<b><span style="font-family: oswald , sans-serif; font-size: 28px; color: black;">GO ON A GASTRONOMICAL VOYAGE</span></b>
<br />
<br />
When Mexicans travel to Puebla, many come here for a culinary tour. <b>Puebla is the birthplace of many dishes unique to Mexico, such as mole poblano, chalupas and chiles en nogada. </b>Puebla even has its very own <u style="font-style: italic;">Candy Street</u> which is lined with candy stalls and shops. A feast for the eyes, if you love sweets this is definitely Candy Heaven.
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-size: 0; text-align: center;">
<img alt="mole from puebla" border="0" height="100%" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-oswiGar7mMw/WLOtcjFWwdI/AAAAAAAAEAg/_IiY7--_eN0tanlLJG2oBarXqJ9O26g7QCLcB/s1600/5.jpg" title="food puebla" width="100%" /></div>
<br />
<b><span style="font-family: oswald , sans-serif; font-size: 28px; color: black;">BOOK NERD? POP INTO THE OLDEST LIBRARY IN THE AMERICAS</span></b>
<br />
<br />
Just off the main square you can walk right into Biblioteca Palafoxiana, the oldest library in the Americas. Well preserved with history bursting from every corner of the room, its well worth the $2 visit. Be careful though, <i>no photography allowed</i>, so I got some sneaky snaps as I exited.
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-size: 0; text-align: center;">
<img alt="Biblioteca Palafoxiana in puebla" border="0" height="100%" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-9qa-4L5Muic/WLOtfE6Ng5I/AAAAAAAAEAk/sXo_sOK2qmoh26SUnvff7JT0gPxMmaGEgCLcB/s1600/6.JPG" title="Biblioteca Palafoxiana" width="100%" /></div>
<br />
<b><span style="font-family: oswald , sans-serif; font-size: 28px; color: black;">CITY OF CHURCHES</span></b>
<br />
<br />
Puebla has a church on almost every corner - 70 in the historic centre alone. The Cathedral below is around 500 years old and is enormous. Situated right in the main square and <u>entry is free</u> which makes it even better.
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-size: 0; text-align: center;">
<img alt="puebla cathedral in the main square" border="0" height="100%" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-qJUXGR1kLAQ/WLOthRB-qaI/AAAAAAAAEAo/gal-Pud-vMIJzYEby6og5_N0skBGrRKTgCLcB/s1600/7.JPG" title="puebla cathedral" width="100%" /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-size: 0; text-align: center;">
<img alt="puebla cathedral in the main square" border="0" height="100%" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-x0vbtvSTE8g/WLOtj0kbQiI/AAAAAAAAEAs/faxdu4ZylUcm_H_lYLbbIhajxuz3VHPlACLcB/s1600/8.JPG" title="puebla cathedral" width="100%" /></div>
<br />
<b><span style="font-family: oswald , sans-serif; font-size: 28px; color: black;">A CITY MADE FOR WALKING</span></b>
<br />
<br /> All the streets around the main square are safe, clean and beautiful. We went for a walk at night after dinner and the streets were <u>alive!</u> People everywhere, restaurants, entertainment, night markets, this city was full of good vibes and atmosphere. <b>Puebla's atmosphere has made it a popular location for shooting popular movies, such as Frida and Vantage Point.</b>
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-size: 0; text-align: center;">
<img alt="puebla street for walking" border="0" height="100%" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-PKdGA66RJ5o/WLOtmbOafEI/AAAAAAAAEAw/bYAOR_SQGRUOWgAMk3o6PMbwuNp-BXS3wCLcB/s1600/9.JPG" title="puebla street" width="100%" /></div>
<br />
<b><span style="font-family: oswald , sans-serif; font-size: 28px; color: black;">THE FINAL VERDICT</span></b>
<br />
<br />
Whether you visit on just a day trip or longer, Puebla is a real visual treat. Puebla is more than a modest sized colonial city, its the fourth largest in Mexico and blends a colonial past with a modern day thriving city. Of course, the most striking thing about Puebla is the colonial buildings adorned with Talavera ceramics, but there is so much more to experience here. <br />
<br />
<u style="font-style: italic;">Toucan?!</u><i> I saw my first toucan right here in Puebla in a shop that sold exotic creatures, which I thought was awesome.</i><br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-size: 0; text-align: center;">
<img alt="toucan i saw in puebla pet shop" border="0" height="100%" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-8Zu4DahMk2A/WLOtouSytbI/AAAAAAAAEA0/EsojppjrFiIy4IsRaEZdTZqh3KYKy6HSgCLcB/s1600/10.JPG" title="toucan" width="100%" /></div>
<br />
<span style="font-size: xx-small;">Image attribution:</span><br />
<span style="font-size: xx-small;"><a href="https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Catedral_de_Puebla,_M%C3%A9xico,_2013-10-11,_DD_17.JPG" target="_blank">"Catedral de Puebla, México"</a> by <a href="https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Catedral_de_Puebla,_M%C3%A9xico,_2013-10-11,_DD_17.JPG" target="_blank">Diego Delso</a> // <a href="https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0/" target="_blank">CC BY-SA 4.0</a> *</span> ;
<span style="font-size: xx-small;"><a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/robphoto/2606385574/" target="_blank">"Puebla Mexico"</a> by <a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/robphoto/" target="_blank">Russ Bowling</a> // <a href="https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/2.0/" target="_blank">CC BY 2.0</a> *</span> ;
<span style="font-size: xx-small;"><a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/robphoto/5552893098" target="_blank">"Popocatepetl"</a> by <a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/robphoto/" target="_blank">Russ Bowling</a> // <a href="https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/2.0/" target="_blank">CC BY 2.0</a> *</span>
<br />
<span style="font-size: xx-small;">* changes were made to the original materials</span>Carlitahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10533463740017757079noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7540078356544900927.post-13701813330376305302014-08-19T08:53:00.002-07:002020-10-29T21:32:56.022-07:00Secret Restaurant Review in Miraflores | Peru Food GuideToday is our last day of a long stay in Lima. I'm feeling kind of sad because we had a lot of fun here the past few weeks, but Im hoping I won't be back in too long. We took it easy today and went to our favourite place - the seaside of Miraflores. We wanted to have lunch, so naturally we went to Larcomar and decided on Vivaldino's. Just below is the view from our table. <b>I think this view will be what I miss the most about Lima!</b><br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-size: 0; text-align: center;">
<img alt="miraflores view from vivaldino" border="0" height="100%" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-_CzaJm-bybY/WLLu4W4ocJI/AAAAAAAAD-Q/HTtmQ1gxS70mIAujnEItZ_fvGu92PD9DQCLcB/s1600/1.JPG" title="miraflores" width="100%" /></div>
<a name='more'></a>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-size: 0; text-align: center;">
<img alt="vivaldino menu" border="0" height="100%" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-MOdJ9rx6vOA/WLLu6-zQTAI/AAAAAAAAD-U/W6VhWf-R4WoFfpydf9pDGdRrEnKTy5WJwCLcB/s1600/2.JPG" title="vivaldino" width="100%" /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-size: 0; text-align: center;">
<img alt="vivaldino inside" border="0" height="100%" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-N0tVVffCmos/WLLu99svgRI/AAAAAAAAD-Y/VXlnpgqF5l4EqxEhHQdCgOj39QykzP4SQCLcB/s1600/3.JPG" title="vivaldino" width="100%" /></div>
<br />
To begin with I got my favourite cocktail - <i>mojito!</i> It was overloaded with mint and very sweet - just the way I like it. For mains I got Black Fettuccine with mixed seafood. It had crab meat, scallops, mussels, prawns and calamari rings. It just looked so good one photo wasn't enough. The sauce was subtle, but it complemented the seafood very well.
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-size: 0; text-align: center;">
<img alt="vivaldino mojito and view" border="0" height="100%" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-GvH8hD_DYhY/WLLvA_U5bVI/AAAAAAAAD-c/BTTC9MgsCRIbRfZCztXnKgi-zbn02KijgCLcB/s1600/4.JPG" title="mojito" width="100%" /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-size: 0; text-align: center;">
<img alt="black pasta with seafood in vivaldino" border="0" height="100%" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-6eR2OsCaSbg/WLLvDtDe-9I/AAAAAAAAD-g/33Vo4ipyTbwpiwoNBfwVhZHq84I0e0YXwCLcB/s1600/5.JPG" title="pasta" width="100%" /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-size: 0; text-align: center;">
<img alt="black pasta with view in vivaldino" border="0" height="100%" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/--2pIV6rL5ks/WLLvFiyJznI/AAAAAAAAD-k/5JN8na5e4wErZx3ysYKnpD0S_2wexFoFgCLcB/s1600/6.JPG" title="black pasta" width="100%" /></div>
<br />
I actually wasn't planning on having dessert but then one of the waiters came over with a tray full of desserts and it looked really fun. We just pointed out what we wanted and they bought a fresh one from the fridge. I got my all time favourite - strawberry cheesecake.
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-size: 0; text-align: center;">
<img alt="cake cart in vivaldino" border="0" height="100%" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-eWdTHiVBBa8/WLLvJkEK4CI/AAAAAAAAD-o/w2VTDr9wexg9EamvFlmEHV84EhvJeZzHACLcB/s1600/7.JPG" title="cake cart" width="100%" /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-size: 0; text-align: center;">
<img alt="strawberry cheesecake in vivaldino" border="0" height="100%" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-06Strfmrykk/WLLvMIqq05I/AAAAAAAAD-s/5iZTaEEraqAeGvUBVTXe9KxU_3tiHIalACLcB/s1600/8.JPG" title="strawberry cheesecake" width="100%" /></div>
<br />
Before we had to leave, I decided to have a final swim in the hotel's pool. Below is the view of Miraflores from my hotels rooftop view. Honestly, <i>I've seen much prettier skylines</i>, but this was my home for the last few weeks so I'm gonna miss it!
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-size: 0; text-align: center;">
<img alt="miraflores skyline from my hotel" border="0" height="100%" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-wlIB1BPJIc4/WLLvO8BZjLI/AAAAAAAAD-w/MTvIQWB7FAMrMjXLJWHDyivXqfUASOLUgCLcB/s1600/9.JPG" title="miraflores skyline" width="100%" /></div>
Carlitahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10533463740017757079noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7540078356544900927.post-73620568801988071632014-08-10T08:52:00.003-07:002020-10-31T22:10:09.245-07:007 Reasons to Visit Lima the City of Kings | Things to do in Lima<i>When the Spaniards arrived in South America, they renamed Lima "The City of Kings". However, its original name in the native language has prevailed until today.</i><br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-size: 0; text-align: center;">
<img alt="lima header" border="0" height="100%" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-V2YgX794Yj8/WLLelIReUrI/AAAAAAAAD8Y/qdDqi1BQmzMa0qZpbWY3xGkm5MOz7JFEQCLcB/s1600/0.png" title="lima" width="100%" /></div>
<br />
When people think of South America's great cities they think of Rio de Janiero and Buenos Aires. <b>However, I think Lima is one of the undiscovered gems of South America. </b>Lush green gardens surrounding the main square and buildings that recount the history of the city, <u>the entire historic centre has been declared a World Heritage Site.</u> Of course, like every city, not every aspect of the city is so golden. There are a large number of pickpocketers that operate in the area, the traffic is loud and impossible to navigate, so most tourists do prefer to book a hotel in Miraflores during their stay in Lima. Fortunately, Miraflores is not so far from the historic centre, so you can either take a cheap taxi or public transport. I've already written about a few places I really liked in the historic centre like <u><a href="https://carlita.me/2014/04/ancient-treasures-museum-lima-peru.html" target="_blank">Casa Aliaga and the Museum of Italian Art</a></u>, but there is a lot more to see when you begin to wander about.
<br />
<a name='more'></a>
<br />
<b><span style="font-family: oswald , sans-serif; font-size: 28px; color: black;">LIMA IS A CITY THAT BLENDS DIFFERENT EUROPEAN STYLES INTO ONE</span></b>
<br />
<br />
As we approached the city centre the first thing I spotted was this large French style building. Many buildings have a reminiscent aura, like that from a different land.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-size: 0; text-align: center;">
<img alt="lima french style building" border="0" height="100%" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-6iFSY5XZxg4/WLLenSYuvrI/AAAAAAAAD8c/pp7vGGUA7QUWOt7nRiklwNLfqR1DT8UmQCLcB/s1600/1.JPG" title="lima building" width="100%" /></div>
<br />
<b><span style="font-family: oswald , sans-serif; font-size: 28px; color: black;">MOORISH INFLUENCE</span></b>
<br />
<br />
A unique feature of Lima is the Moorish balconies all around the city centre. They are so prevalent that <u><b>there are 1600 in the city centre alone</b></u> and the government spends considerable effort in maintaining them. Although today, people admire the balconies from the outside for their elaborate designs, <b>the original function has been long forgotten in an era of old values.</b> In the past, colonial women were not permitted to walk the streets, pertaining to a tradition that women were not to be seen. <i>Only from their balconies, could they observe the street life.</i>
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-size: 0; text-align: center;">
<img alt="moorish balcony in lima" border="0" height="100%" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-FPf8K3igZNM/WLLepdc2vLI/AAAAAAAAD8g/K3YgyMKZBQY1EMJcScPjfc8XF3Y-epQkQCLcB/s1600/2.JPG" title="moorish balcony" width="100%" /></div>
<br />
<b><span style="font-family: oswald , sans-serif; font-size: 28px; color: black;">RICH CULTURAL TRADITIONS</span></b>
<br />
<br />
As we got closer to the city centre, we saw a marching band heading towards the government palace. We decided to follow them and realised that they were changing the palace guards, which happens in front of the government palace everyday at noon. It was a fun spectacle, something I didn't expect in Lima.
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-size: 0; text-align: center;">
<img alt="marching band in lima" border="0" height="100%" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-wyayhbFulGk/WLLerVpdYKI/AAAAAAAAD8k/THt41kujOFAmR2zecokjkK7kRy32acFFwCLcB/s1600/3.JPG" title="marching band" width="100%" /></div>
<br />
<b><span style="font-family: oswald , sans-serif; font-size: 28px; color: black;">IMPOSING GOVERNMENTAL POWER</span></b>
<br />
<br />
Following the marching band, we made it to the central square and government palace. Erected over 500 years ago, security at the palace is pretty tight with guards and their rifles standing around the palace at all times. You can't really get up close and personal with the palace, <i>the president does live there after all</i>, but you can take a peek through the metal bars, and the gardens surrounding the palace are lovely.
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-size: 0; text-align: center;">
<img alt="government building and gardens in lima" border="0" height="100%" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-yI-TG7PoiV8/WLLetWglCEI/AAAAAAAAD8o/M_2B_QW3as4C25rmbX1qX8FHORhYn2B0gCLcB/s1600/4.JPG" title="government building" width="100%" /></div>
<br />
<b><span style="font-family: oswald , sans-serif; font-size: 28px; color: black;">RELIGIOUS DOMINATION</span></b>
<br />
<br />
There are a lot of important buildings surrounding the main square, such as the Archbishop's Palace and the Cathedral. We didn't really have time to go inside, but it's nice enough just wandering all around the square. Since this square is the main area of political activity in Lima, it is prone to protests and terrorist attacks. <b>All around the main square are guards and police cars like the one below - just to ensure that trouble is halted before it can start.</b> <i>Maybe it's a bit scary, but at least you feel safe here.</i>
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-size: 0; text-align: center;">
<img alt="church and gardens in lima" border="0" height="100%" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ssRUocoX4J8/WLLevVsLkmI/AAAAAAAAD8s/_x9kc3qWOIQpmDyJukmBvCgCW4MBdYbogCLcB/s1600/5.JPG" title="church and gardens" width="100%" /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-size: 0; text-align: center;">
<img alt="lima police in city centre" border="0" height="100%" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-0r2f4kxq47A/WLLex1BaAAI/AAAAAAAAD8w/6kU7M1m1ez0xClq1CBL_IJ5wRW2DjgIEACLcB/s1600/6.JPG" title="lima police" width="100%" /></div>
<br />
<b><span style="font-family: oswald , sans-serif; font-size: 28px; color: black;">THE CONGRESS OF PERU</span></b>
<br />
<br />
The Congress of Peru is about a 10 minute walk from the main square. We took the free 1 hour tour which took us to all the most important buildings and gave us a small intro to the history of the congress. We've done a lot of free tours in Lima but this one was probably the best - <i>and if you're a cheapo like me then this tour is a great way to learn about the city and not spend any money.</i>
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-size: 0; text-align: center;">
<img alt="congress of peru" border="0" height="100%" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-MPAMhfeqlr8/WLLezi75lUI/AAAAAAAAD80/Qw9gviVMaBQBKvYqsPtyD_rbj2ostSZ9wCLcB/s1600/7.JPG" title="congress" width="100%" /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-size: 0; text-align: center;">
<img alt="congress of peru" border="0" height="100%" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-cy_5neko1DM/WLLe1uAMh4I/AAAAAAAAD84/Zu6FS_HCFI0NKpchtcmKjtQjwXAObnwKgCLcB/s1600/8.JPG" title="congress" width="100%" /></div>
<br />
<b><span style="font-family: oswald , sans-serif; font-size: 28px; color: black;">SOMETHING FOR EVERYONE</span></b>
<br />
<br />
After dark we took a taxi to Lima's <i>Magic Water Show</i> at the recommendation of a friend of ours. Not far from the city centre, this place was <b>PACKED!</b> The park is enormous, but we still had trouble navigating the crowds. We walked through the park, admiring over a dozen large water fountains illuminated with music and lights. <i>Childish?</i> No effing way. <b>Super cool, and kind of romantic, this place appeals to everyone, toddlers to adults.</b> <i>At times, I felt like I was having more fun here than the kids.</i>
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-size: 0; text-align: center;">
<img alt="water park lima" border="0" height="100%" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-msPp8sUhPeQ/WLLe3pMDEDI/AAAAAAAAD88/_7gdYNzVoGwFjAzPyPzwYzj2SaEFoIjDgCLcB/s1600/9.JPG" title="water park" width="100%" /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-size: 0; text-align: center;">
<img alt="water park show in lima" border="0" height="100%" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-8tMp7WBVoHQ/WLLe5jh0zTI/AAAAAAAAD9A/L3aZPhEEUCAWixA4xs-P8Gs-MBhKvG6DgCLcB/s1600/10.jpg" title="water park" width="100%" /></div>
<br />
<span style="font-size: xx-small;">Image attribution:</span><br />
<span style="font-size: xx-small;"><a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/tafs/22081280698" target="_blank">"Arzobispado de Lima"</a> by <a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/tafs/" target="_blank">Art DiNo</a> // <a href="https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/2.0/" target="_blank">CC BY-SA 2.0</a> *</span>
<br />
<span style="font-size: xx-small;">* changes were made to the original materials</span>Carlitahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10533463740017757079noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7540078356544900927.post-41138489871880789942014-07-26T06:51:00.001-07:002020-10-28T02:19:57.940-07:00La Rosa Nautica - Peru's Dazzling Restaurant in the Sea (A Must Visit!)<i>Since its conception in 1983, Lima's most romantic restaurant has been conquering the tastebuds of Peruvians and tourists alike.</i><br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-size: 0; text-align: center;">
<img alt="la rosa nautica header" border="0" height="100%" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-PDlNcr-mjGs/WLKwWWYO3eI/AAAAAAAAD5I/_qi2aPPZftYWBDEK6_BNQ5KUx5uHZWjEwCLcB/s1600/0.png" title="la rosa nautica" width="100%" /></div>
<br />
Today I visited my most favourite restaurant in Lima - La Rosa Nautica - <b><i>one of the most romantic restaurants I've ever had the pleasure of visiting</i></b>. The restaurant is located on a pier under the cliffs that tumble down the coast of Miraflores, giving the best oceanside views Lima has to offer.
<br />
<br />
<a name='more'></a>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-size: 0; text-align: center;">
<img alt="la rosa nautica pier" border="0" height="100%" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-J9SGpH27KyM/WLKwY4qd8OI/AAAAAAAAD5M/DPY-txPHpqgXcJ7d5tg_97qbQ-YmhX_6ACLcB/s1600/1.JPG" title="la rosa nautica" width="100%" /></div>
<br />
But La Rosa Nautica has a lot more to offer than it's prime location. <b>Peru's most acclaimed chefs have been working the kitchens since it's conception in 1983.</b> Its unique ambience makes it one of the best places in Lima to host a special event - <i>for this reason every time I am in Lima I make a point of eating here!</i>
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-size: 0; text-align: center;">
<img alt="la rosa nautica entrance" border="0" height="100%" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-NGI6xctHiHc/WLKwa4R32vI/AAAAAAAAD5Q/DdIdOl9wV3w6wZOEpBG4x0KW3h0w9Z_lACLcB/s1600/2.JPG" title="la rosa nautica" width="100%" /></div>
<br />
<b>Peru's cuisine is a cosmopolitan mix that blends new techniques and old tastes.</b> The cuisine is international, but cooked with unique Peruvian ingredients you cannot find anywhere else such as lucuma and native potatoes.
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-size: 0; text-align: center;">
<img alt="la rosa nautica table with napkin" border="0" height="100%" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-f8TGGIyLwnI/WLKwc7PGQGI/AAAAAAAAD5U/yMagUWxP5ygJAYpELEALGtgEAJ8g9yZpACLcB/s1600/3.JPG" title="table" width="100%" /></div>
<br />
<b><span style="font-size: 24px;">Pisco sours on point.</span></b> I was offered a glass of wine but declined in favour of a creamy Piña Colada. Can't go wrong with a classic Latin American cocktail here. <i>But it's a good idea to visit the attached bar first to get a taste of a pisco sour to die for.</i>
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-size: 0; text-align: center;">
<img alt="la rosa nautica pina colada" border="0" height="100%" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Fj089TLX_Kg/WLKwet-bpOI/AAAAAAAAD5Y/_RanPzgrR2YlmN20KTG-Ml7u7xf9UNvXwCLcB/s1600/4.JPG" title="cocktail" width="100%" /></div>
<br />
For appetizers we were treated to a hot plate of mixed seafood - scallops, dim sims, fried potato and meat skewers with Huancaina and other Peruvian dipping sauces.
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-size: 0; text-align: center;">
<img alt="la rosa nautica appetizer" border="0" height="100%" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-vlpUUiZlzl0/WLKwg1iIqBI/AAAAAAAAD5c/gQs0DLpRAMMXo8y9DGo3v2rIhOvikcUBwCLcB/s1600/5.JPG" title="appetizer" width="100%" /></div>
<br />
By the time our mains had I arrived I was already stuffed full of cocktails, bar snacks and appetizers. But I powered through. It was a French dish with a Peruvian twist - creamy potatoes, veggies and cheese on top.
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-size: 0; text-align: center;">
<img alt="la rosa nautica mains" border="0" height="100%" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-b-bf9ho8FiA/WLKwis-nhJI/AAAAAAAAD5g/BGu_DfroAvkYhESG-KaEcOmAe_0ghJFswCLcB/s1600/6.JPG" title="mains" width="100%" /></div>
<br />
When it was dessert time I was definitely bursting at the waist, but I decided I would squeeze in a Lucuma tart. With gooey chocolate it was so satisfying and rich.
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-size: 0; text-align: center;">
<img alt="lucuma tart" border="0" height="100%" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-knh_sAjo-KM/WLKwkeEdW3I/AAAAAAAAD5k/ZZIfBUo6l7413XG5X3hqCzjAzEaFNEingCLcB/s1600/7.JPG" title="la rosa nautica" width="100%" /></div>
<br />
Being over the ocean we could feel the waves crashing beneath us while we feasted. Looking out the window you can see the surfers battling the waves and maybe wishing you could join them when you are done.
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-size: 0; text-align: center;">
<img alt="miraflores coastline la rosa nautica" border="0" height="100%" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-vNG_5LsVNMM/WLKwmYs3EgI/AAAAAAAAD5o/mege38k35xYDiOgwGJ0w9dECUDEXryZZACLcB/s1600/8.JPG" title="miraflores" width="100%" /></div>
<br />
After you finish feasting it is the perfect time to stroll back to the coast and take your time to browse the many souvenir shops that line the pier. Even though they are more expensive here than other souvenir shops the quality is grade A.
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-size: 0; text-align: center;">
<img alt="la rosa nautica souvenir shops" border="0" height="100%" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-JNQ5Oxijeuk/WLKwozqIUwI/AAAAAAAAD5s/vn9el8DJMVU2wlAtxcg0QcAU_TSJs2yuwCLcB/s1600/9.JPG" title="la rosa nautica" width="100%" /></div>
<br />
Elegant and cozy at the same time, its a great place for a romantic dinner or something a little more formal in a unique setting. <i>It felt just like a picnic on the beach (minus the mess).</i>
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-size: 0; text-align: center;">
<img alt="la rosa nautica view from cliffs" border="0" height="100%" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-y1V_dErx4tE/WLKwrSXTWUI/AAAAAAAAD5w/HhDLkI9xivQJ6jPJoXjNwm5Ejc_fK1G2wCLcB/s1600/10.JPG" title="la rosa nautica" width="100%" /></div>
Carlitahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10533463740017757079noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7540078356544900927.post-18343662895273943382014-07-14T06:48:00.002-07:002020-10-31T22:13:36.997-07:006 Attractions You Can't Miss in Miraflores | Lima Travel Guide<i>Situated on the coast of Lima - a trendy and upscale hub, Miraflores is the happening place in Lima.</i><br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-size: 0; text-align: center;">
<img alt="miraflores header" border="0" height="100%" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-YHfsTykbab4/WLBPfHpJISI/AAAAAAAADzc/b-Mkng15KRQ4mxpEchoQHY63HLkkFSs2gCLcB/s1600/0.jpg" title="miraflores" width="100%" /></div>
<br />
Miraflores is the district we've been staying in during our time in Lima. <b>When I travel to an unknown city I try to book a hotel near the city centre - the main attractions and transport is usually located near the city centre so its much more convenient. </b><u style="font-weight: bold;">But Lima is a bit different for me.</u> As beautiful as the historic centre is, it is loud, crowded, and carrying your luggage with you isn't typically the best thing to do in an area that is well known for pickpocketers and thieves. <b>If you want to visit Lima the best place to stay is Miraflores. </b>Miraflores is famous for its immaculate parks, shopping, cliffs, and its amazing ocean view. If you look on the bottom left corner below you can see crowds of people in one of Miraflores most popular restaurants. <b><i><u>This is the happening place of Lima.</u></i></b><br />
<br />
<a name='more'></a>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-size: 0; text-align: center;">
<img alt="miraflores restaurant" border="0" height="100%" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-1gT5c4TBQmU/WLBPhZv_d2I/AAAAAAAADzg/2GOQUB2cMRgCWZ_LVbQQCTmGXsSzTPTUwCLcB/s1600/1.JPG" title="miraflores" width="100%" /></div>
<br />
<h3><b><span style="font-family: oswald , sans-serif; font-size: 28px; color: black;">PARAGLIDING</span></b></h3>
<br />
Before you get to Miraflores you can spot them in the sky - paragliders. Everyday of my stay in Miraflores I've seen up to 10 of these in the sky. We got curious and followed the coastline until we found out that these weren't just hobbyists, anyone can do it! I paid around $40AUD for a 10-15 minute flight (which you can see <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XpmrPSXcvzo" target="_blank">here</a>). It was amazing, safe and comfortable. Just like having the world beneath your feet. <b><u>How to get there - just follow the coastline!</u></b>
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-size: 0; text-align: center;">
<img alt="paragliding over miraflores" border="0" height="100%" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-oRRkm-XC32c/WLBPjb1xAEI/AAAAAAAADzk/D8V9pXMCvOoPE7CPUQ3nm9HP_EAQCxXegCLcB/s1600/2.JPG" title="paragliding" width="100%" /></div>
<br />
<h3><b><span style="font-family: oswald , sans-serif; font-size: 28px; color: black;">LARCOMAR</span></b></h3>
<br />
Larcomar is the open air shopping complex smack bang in the middle of Miraflores built onto the cliffs that tumble down onto the beach below. Everything is open air, and the shops tend to be a bit upmarket compared to others. I think what I really like about this place the most is the sunset - crowds of locals and tourists alike gather here to watch a beautiful sunset everyday. <b>The paragliders swooping down above the centre, the beautiful sunsets, and the view of La Rosa Nautica restaurant which you can see in the ocean on the middle left give it a unique environment.</b>
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-size: 0; text-align: center;">
<img alt="larcomar shopping centre in miraflores" border="0" height="100%" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-rccnGgK3SWI/WLBPlKcfKeI/AAAAAAAADzo/qxPhBd8awtkUkvrW-8rsewcvxKfdHZjoACLcB/s1600/3.JPG" title="larcomar" width="100%" /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-size: 0; text-align: center;">
<img alt="larcomar shopping center in miraflores" border="0" height="100%" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-PpvVSi7B9GU/WLBPnoRYI-I/AAAAAAAADzs/e5eq1Ev2JL8lZP-zqiN4H0mpoLOgvLp6ACLcB/s1600/4.JPG" title="larcomar" width="100%" /></div>
<br />
<h3><b><span style="font-family: oswald , sans-serif; font-size: 28px; color: black;">THE PARK OF LOVE</span></b></h3>
<br />
Following the boardwalk along the cliffs we found <i>El Parque del Amor</i>. I remember in 2011 we drove past this park and it was full of couples and lovers on the grass. The mosaic seats with Spanish inscriptions about love were a nice touch, it reminded me of Park Güell in Barcelona.
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-size: 0; text-align: center;">
<img alt="park of love parque del amor lima" border="0" height="100%" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-v5YjwOmg0WA/WLBPpmusRtI/AAAAAAAADzw/tQqRI2X4pPI7GeMy540NQZZtfvCCMiyjgCLcB/s1600/5.JPG" title="park of love" width="100%" /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-size: 0; text-align: center;">
<img alt="park of love parque del amor lima" border="0" height="100%" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-qjE9wnparoo/WLBPr7XfH3I/AAAAAAAADz0/PNdKolnenlslRFK8MvYQeKrlEGozAnubgCLcB/s1600/6.JPG" title="park of love" width="100%" /></div>
<br />
<h3><b><span style="font-family: oswald , sans-serif; font-size: 28px; color: black;">PARQUE KENNEDY</span></b></h3>
<br />
About 10 minutes inland from the Miraflores coastline is Parque Kennedy, or as it is known colloquially, <b>the park of stray cats</b>. This immaculate park is home to many feral and domestic cats that like to affectionately approach humans and ask for food. Actually, the cats are cared for and fed by a charity organization, which is why hundreds of cats have made it their home.
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-size: 0; text-align: center;">
<img alt="parque kennedy cats" border="0" height="100%" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Oclx6gI6K9s/WLBPuNa2XWI/AAAAAAAADz4/JvLtWPkvykIEcIxpRAwDPFJ8mfWG9YRBgCLcB/s1600/7.JPG" title="parque kennedy" width="100%" /></div>
<br />
<h3><b><span style="font-family: oswald , sans-serif; font-size: 28px; color: black;">FINE DINING</span></b></h3>
<br />
Lima is, without a doubt, the <i>Gastronomical Capital of the Americas</i>. As of 2016, it is home to 3 of the top 50 restaurants in the world (Central, Maido and Astrid y Gaston). The fusion of pre-Hispanic and cosmopolitan techniques combined with the freshest produce has made Lima one of the best gastronomical centres in the world. A substantial amount of Lima's best restaurants are centralised around Miraflores and the surrounding areas.
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-size: 0; text-align: center;">
<img alt="fine dining in lima" border="0" height="100%" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-byJpp5q7u8E/WLBPv0tAKlI/AAAAAAAADz8/MwkTCme6sMsBf2SFtDR6ZypFz-OCmbUbgCLcB/s1600/8.JPG" title="fine dining" width="100%" /></div>
<br />
<h3><b><span style="font-family: oswald , sans-serif; font-size: 28px; color: black;">RESTAURANT IN THE SEA</span></b></h3>
<br />
Apart from being a fine dining establishment, La Rosa Nautica is a unique fixture in Miraflores because it is a gorgeous restaurant that sits right in the sea. No matter where you look over the coastline your eyes will not avoid it (the food is fantastic too).
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-size: 0; text-align: center;">
<img alt="la rosa nautica in lima miraflores" border="0" height="100%" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-PxztibWhsDA/WLBPyXWj1AI/AAAAAAAAD0A/Y2-k1yx9950-Kf7iN3OEF9aFnmYR-02aQCLcB/s1600/9.JPG" title="la rosa nautica" width="100%" /></div>
<br />
<b><span style="font-family: oswald , sans-serif; font-size: 32px; color: black;">THE MOST BEAUTIFUL COASTLINE IN THE WORLD?</span></b>
<br />
<br />
Well, <i>I'll let you decide for yourself</i>.....
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-size: 0; text-align: center;">
<img alt="miraflores coastline" border="0" height="100%" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Dv1t6-SsaRI/WLBP0-NDuxI/AAAAAAAAD0E/TbY16TduZn8KEfiKsD63U33O0j2xQSwcwCLcB/s1600/10.JPG" title="miraflores" width="100%" /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-size: 0; text-align: center;">
<img alt="miraflores sunset" border="0" height="100%" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-LF8KgbzPWOg/WLBP3P4VhsI/AAAAAAAAD0I/IUuzy3d_KdkwMwfJbOgV2nli87ZKnX1lACLcB/s1600/11.JPG" title="miraflores " width="100%" /></div>
<br />
<span style="font-size: xx-small;">Image attribution:</span><br />
<span style="font-size: xx-small;"><a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/lorenaflagphotography/6915107214" target="_blank">"Lighthouse at sunset"</a> by <a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/lorenaflagphotography/" target="_blank">Lorena Flores Agüero</a> // <a href="https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/2.0/" target="_blank">CC BY-SA 2.0</a> *</span>
<br />
<span style="font-size: xx-small;">* changes were made to the original materials</span>Carlitahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10533463740017757079noreply@blogger.com0