JUST THE TWO OF US AT KOH SAMUI

This amazing coconut island of Thailand is fast becoming a tourist hotspot. What with the perfect white sandy beaches, turquoise waters, amazing local hospitality and exotic locales…it certainly is no surprise

To be greeted by the most beautiful airport in the world, it was indeed a good start for our second honeymoon. The airport is essentially entirely outdoors with the departure lounge being a nice little street of quaint shops and bars. And trust me tome is of little importance at Koh Samui from the moment you arrive at the terminal and breathe the frangipani-scented tropical air, you feel yourself slow down and relaxed, which is one of the best things about the island. There is an overriding tranquility that transforms tourists from stress-merchants into serene smiling beings and there is much to do in this natural wonderland. Set on the beautiful and unspoiled beach of Choeng Mon on the northeast coast of Samui was our Hotel Imperial Boathouse. Our every whim was catered by the very friendly and obliging staff, and with so many dining options we were spoiled for choice. One can never get bored here with a host of activities ranging from just cycling around the island, Pre-arranging a romantic candlelight barbeque in front of the sea at leisure; one can wine and dine with the sounds of the ocean under the moonlit sky. For the ultimate indulgence one can retire to one’s sun beds for dessert and coffee and saver the true evening sky.

TOUR AROUND THE ISLAND

We decided that we couldn’t just relax by the pool and on the beach every day so we agreed to take a tour together around the island.  I found the first stop a bit strange, though these bunch of rocks look really cool, by the sea. What's weird is that one rock formation resembles the make genitalia and a crevice in another looks like the female genitalia, hence it is named Grandpa and Grandma Rocks. Basically these are rock formations and if you use just a bit of imagination they look like the male and female genitals.  One of the stories about this place being two star crossed lovers who jumped off the cliff there and the only thing remaining were these organs.

Next stop was a temple monastery (Wat Khunaram) where a revered monk's mummified body is kept in a glass case in a meditative position. He has been believed to give up his body during meditation, having predicted his own time of death. It seems like it is not just a tourist attraction but also a shrine for locals. Interestingly there was also a pair of sunglasses put on the monks face. 

We also visited a coconut plantation where trained monkeys climb trees and pick the right coconuts. We then moved on to the  Elephant ride park and hiked on a  hilly trail that  ended at a water fall , where we also indulged in some local street food consisting of Som Tam and grilled duck….mama mia!

That last evening we just chilled in our boat house and ordered room service and I thought to myself “with spectacular views all across, there’s no better place than this to chill out and relax, enjoying the hospitality and tropical ambience of this friendly paradise”. Despite the island’s luxury trend, Samui still has something for every type of traveller on offer. There are bikini-clad, oil-slicked tourists, crowded beach areas where teenage boys peddle mangoes and coconuts, and noisy jet-skiers churning up whitewash on the clear waters.Koh Sumai sure is a melting pot where the past and the present are smoothly blended together, offers a rare beauty that will compel you to return to its shores time and time again….

TRAVEL PLANNER

Getting there: Fly Thai airways from Delhi to Bangkok, then either fly Bangkok Airways or Thai.

Visa Wise: You require a valid passport and Visa is available on arrival too.

Best Time to visit: It is an all year destination.

Currency:  Thai Baht. 1Thai Baht is equal to 1.55 INR

Wear Wise: Loose cotton clothes are essential.

Must Do: learn Thai cooking, Water activities, Elephant Trekking, Visit the snake farm,

TETE E TETE WITH ANJUM ANAND

What according to you is the hottest cuisine these days?

Depends where in the world you are. In the US, they are really getting into raw food, New Mexican and some Vietnamese. In the UK they are still talking about provenance and seasonality but we are finally getting some good Mexican in which is adding to its popularity. For me, it is street food from around the world.

What is your contribution to Indian cuisine internationally?

This is not for me to answer; it is a matter of perspective. Some may say I have done nothing, others a lot.

Does molecular gastronomy work with Indian cuisine?

It works as well as it does with any other cuisine. It is about new tastes and textures and allows the cook to enjoy his creativity.

How different was it working with an Indian team of chefs at The Oberoi for the charity event?

I really enjoyed working with the chefs from the Oberoi. It is always great for me to work in India; there is a feeling of camaraderie and familiarity that I love.

What is the most popular Indian dish internationally?

The chicken tikka masala.

Do you have any advice for upcoming chefs?

You need to learn everything you can, immerse yourself into this world and then add you own stamp to it once you have grown enough to understand what that might be. Being over confident to early on gives little.

How do you balance working in the kitchen with a family?

I’m not sure I have balanced both, sometimes one takes up more time, other times, the other. I am always wanting to do more with both (my children and my career) so I am probably Jack of all, master of none! But I wouldn’t want to not have one or the other so it will just have to continue this way.

  

Do you think it is difficult for vegetarians to survive eating out internationally?

Yes, in some places. For example, Spain was a struggle for my brood this summer but luckily I found an Indian restaurant on day 2 and took a regular take away from there! I’m not joking, in many European cities, I need to find an Indian restaurant to feed my lot a healthy, balanced meal.

Your favourite cuisine and favourite restaurant? Why?

Obviously Indian! Love Bukhara in Delhi, Trishna in Mumbai, Kewpies in Kolkata I know there are many others, newer restaurants around but I haven’t gotten around to trying them. I am always open to suggestions so readers feel free to email me through my website www.anjumanand.co.uk or tweet me on @anjum_anand.

Please tell us one secret handy tip/ingredient/cooking process which enhances your cooking & we can try?

I think cooking with patience and really allowing flavours to develop works well with Indian food. Also, when it comes to a curry, stir often; it makes the sauce creamier and more homogenous.

Blackberries with Violet, Yoghurt and Easy Homemade Granola

I know this dish isn’t Indian of origin but it is so delicious I couldn’t resist putting it in the book. I was working this compote to go with my kulfi but it didn’t work and I ate it for breakfast the next morning with some Greek yoghurt. It was divine and this dish was born. Granola is so easy to make that once you make our own you will never seek it out from supermarkets again and here it adds a lovely crunch and substance to the dish. I haven’t added any dried fruit to this granola as there is some in the compote but you can choose from raisins, dried cherries, dried blueberries or any other and add in with the coconut.
Makes enough for 4
400g blackberries, washed
4-5 tbs. violet syrup (depends on how sour the berries are)
Large handful of dried blueberries or raisins
Greek Yoghurt or thick yoghurt, (stirred to break up lumps) to serve
Granola (store extra in an airtight container)
160g old fashioned rolled oats
80g mix of nuts and seeds (I use pistachios, halved almonds, cashew nuts, pumpkin and sunflower seeds)
20g coconut flakes or desiccated coconut
¾ tsp. vanilla essence
½ tsp. cinnamon powder
1½ tbs. vegetable oil
55-60ml natural maple syrup
11/2 tbs. honey
Good pinch of salt
Preheat oven to 140C. Start with the granola and mix the oats, nuts, cinnamon and salt together in a baking tray. Make a well in the middle and pour in all the wet ingredients; mix well. Bake for 40 minutes, adding the coconut flakes in after 35 minutes. Stir every 8-9 minutes for even baking. Take out once golden, it will continue to crisp up as it cools. Once cool, store in an airtight container and use as needed. 
Place the blackberries in a saucepan with a good splash of water and heat until the berries are starting to soften. Add the violet syrup and raisins and cook for another minute and take off the heat. Add another splash of water if the fruit looks a little dry, there should be some juices. Taste and add some more syrup or a squeeze of orange or lemon juice to balance sweetness.
Serve compote hot or cold with the Greek yoghurt and the granola.

Published in The Man

TASTE OF GURGAON WITH GAURAV GERA

LOCAL FLAVOURS- GURGAON

The famed Jhumroo of kingdom of Dreams and also the lad from Gurgaon tells Rupali Dean what he loves to eat in his hometown....

VEGETARIAN FRIED HONEYCOMB DUMPLINGS

The Monk, Galaxy Hotel Shopping & Spa, Sector 15

I visit this place for Oriental food. This place offers roasted peanuts to munch before you order food. The mind boggling varieties include delicious wok fried delicacies as meal in a bowl, with your choice of noodles, sticky or steamed rice. My personal favourite are the Soba noodles with Chinese greens in Black pepper sauce.

DOUBLE SCOOP CHOCOLATE PLEASURE SUNDAE

Nirula’s, MGF Metropolitan Mall, MG Road

This ice cream counter caters to quick take away service whenever I wish to satiate my appetite for deserts. The counter offers entire range of ice creams, shakes, sundaes, coffee and sodas.

MYSORE MASALA DOSA

Navedayam, Orchid Square near Sushant Lok

It’s one of my favourite places. The food here is unpretentious and clearly freshly made and more importantly is delicious to boot!  Filter coffee to start with followed by Mysore Rava Masala Dosa and Dahi Vada. Apart from this, Maharaja Thali is not to be missed. It’s an awesome place to dine at with friends.

GUNPOWDER DOSA

Chennai Pavilion, Kingdom of Dreams, Sector 29

Elegant setting with sophisticated South Indian food makes Chennai Pavilion a real winner. A mammoth boulevard of food and retail, The Chennai restaurant offers the one of its kind Gunpowder Dosa, which is surely going to tantalize your taste buds.

DAL MAKHNI

Namche Bazaar, Golf Course Road, Sector 43

This institution has become an icon for its signature Dal Makhni and is a must for locals who patronize this place. I like the calm and quiet atmosphere here. The Meetha Paan is surely not to be missed.

DHODHA

Om Sweets, Sector 14

When you come to this part of Gurgaon, leave behind all that new-fad of calorie counting, health-conscious, and low-fat thinking. The scent of asli ghee invades the nostrils all over.  After more than a century and with a long list of loyal clients, it needs very little endorsement. All the sweets and snacks here to die for and the Dhodha here has put Gurgaon on the culinary map.

Published in India Today Travel Plus 

MISO, GURGAON

CHILL ZONE

The Lowdown – This restaurant serving superlative food without any nouveau pretension is so popular that making reservations are advised. An extensive a la carte menu offers a comprehensive choice of the finest Korean fare. The highlight is the cooking of your own meats and piping hot food on your own little grill, a neat change to the run of the mill point and order joint. There are nine ‘Banchan’ (side dishes) with every meal you order and all of them have their own flavours, and are amazingly delicious, the standards being cabbage kimchi, bean sprouts and sweet potato and the rest change. And yes fruit is served on the house as ‘dessert’. Many of the ingredients and spices are brought from Korea, ensuring authentic dishes and the owner ‘Mi Hwa Park’ is the chief chef too.

The owner & chief chef Mi Hwa Park

Ambience- Exquisite rosewood furniture coupled with intricately detailed wooden panelling and local paintings add to its elegant ambience matched by food that is equally refined and refreshing. One is seated in a booth on the wood floor on low wooden tables, after taking off one’s shoes to eat in traditional Korean style. The tables are big enough to seat large groups of people, and are also big enough to place a large amount of dishes. They also have buttons on the table to alert your waiter/waitress if they are not around. 

Lip-smacking- Traditional Korean BBQ is one of the restaurant’s specialities including ‘Bulgogi’ (tenderloin beef BBQ) and ‘Daeji yangnyeom Galbi’ (seasoned pork ribs). ‘Kimch jigae’ (spicy Hot Korean kimchi with tofu and pork) served with sticky rice, ‘Bibim Bap’ (rice with vegetables, meat and a fried egg, which is to be mixed with a fruit based sauce), ‘chicken gas’ (fried chicken) and ‘Haemul Tang’ (spicy sea-food soup).

Don't even go there –If you are uncomfortable sitting cross-legged on the floor and dining.

'Man’ speak –I was craving something refreshingly new for my slightly overdone palette and this proved to be an exciting dining experience.

How to get there – Unit 11, Ground Floor, Global Foyer B/D, Golf course road, sector 43, Gurgaon. Next to the Mercedes Benz showroom, the nearest metro station is sikanderpur.

Tel- 0124-4086128 / 4086130

Timings- Open for lunch and dinner.

Cost – A meal for two would be approx. 2,200 without alcohol.

-RUPALI DEAN

 Published in The Man

ON JAPANESE KNIVES- VISUAL APPEAL

Most restaurants offer culinary treasures and fine delicacies from Japan, suddenly seems to be the city’s staple, cooked in both contemporary and traditional styles…thanks to these wonderful Knives!!

Renowned for its elegant presentation, Japanese cuisine elevates the enjoyment level on the table and raises the appreciation from those who eat it. The Japanese are known for making some of the world's best knives and not just the Samurai sword. Their cuisine relies heavily on intricate knife skills from cuts of sashimi, to the artistic fruit and vegetable carving. A willing hand, a creative mind to work the knife is all it takes to get that whimsical charm to your food. Interestingly not all Japanese knives are the same however the central core of any good Japanese knife is hard steel that is both tough and easily able to be sharpened to a keen edge. These knives are supposed to glide right through food as one is slicing it. On a traditional vein these knives are of two kinds based on the forging methods. ‘Honyaki’ are made from true forged high carbon steel. ‘Kasumi’ are made through forging high carbon steel and soft iron together.

CITY CHEFS USE JAPANESE KNIVES FOR BETTER PERFORMANCE

As a matter of fact, most sushi chefs love single bevel knives (Yanagi Ba) owing to have to sharpen their knives daily. With a single bevel knife, they can easily achieve the same razor-sharp edge day after day. “It was originally believed that a blade angled only on one side cuts better and makes cleaner cuts, though requiring more skill in its use than a blade with a double-bevelled edge. Usually, the right hand side of the blade is angled, as most people use the knife with their right hand, with ratios ranging from 70–30 for the average chef’s knife, to 90–10 for professional sushi chef knives; left-handed models are rare and must be specially ordered and custom made”, shares Keisuke Uno, Japanese Master Chef at The Claridges, Surajkund. “We use Santoku style knives here. As a chef, I feel, they are an edge better than the regular AP French knives. This blade design allows a more acute angle on the cutting edge that makes the knife ideal for precision cutting and thin slicing. The Deba knives (cleavers) are also often used in our kitchen and its angular look makes it easier to use”, adds Chef Nimish Bhatia, The Lalit New Delhi. Proud owner of a Japanese hand- made high carbon steel knife Chef Sabyasachi Gorai says, “Some Chefs prefer Kyocera ceramic knives as they are made of an advanced, high-tech ceramic called zirconia, which is second in hardness only to diamond. The best part about these ceramic knives is that they don’t bend, corrode or require constant re-sharpening, and are easy to maintain, apart from being extremely light and good looking”. Chef Bakshish Dean, corporate chef liteBite food shares “I love my Sakai Takayuki, 17 layers Damascus knife which my wife gifted me on my birthday, this gorgeous black topped knife is hand made and the steel is incredibly rich in Carbon and Tungsten. This blade can take and hold a scary sharp edge even through heavy use. Yet it is easy to re sharpen and has a good rust resistance for a high carbon knife”.

TIP

A good knife should be foraged from high-quality, high carbon, no stain steel and never be made of stainless steel, should be nicely balanced with a good heft to it and always be stored in the cover it came with, or on a wall mounted magnetic strip.

MUST HAVE KNIVES IN A HOME KITCHEN

Chef’s knife- With a 6 to 12 inch blade and 1-1/2 inches deep to the widest point. This All-purpose knife is great for chopping, slicing, dicing and mincing.

Paring knife- Owing to its size i.e. 3-4 inches long and about ¾ inches deep it feels like a part of your hand and is brilliant for peeling , coring, trimming etc.

Serrated Bread knife- 9 inch is long enough and makes perfect for cutting soft produce apart from just crusty breads and cakes.

Published in HT City.

PLAIN JANE IN SPAIN?

MADRID – A SHOPPER’S HAVEN

If upscale chic shopping is your style there are a number of exclusive shops available in Madrid, and if you would rather go organic shopping the flea markets and a number of quaint antique shops are worth a dekho! Those on a shopping vacation will be absolutely amazed with the abundance of bargains the city offers! That said, as one of the fashion hubs of the world, it is no surprise that Madrid is obviously known for its excellent shopping!

GRAN VIA & AROUND - MECCA OF SHOPPING & ENTERTAINMENT

The buzzing Gran Via which runs from the Calle de Alcala to the Plaza De Espana is a Mecca for the local and tourists alike. It’s the Spanish Capital’s answer to Oxford Street, Piccadilly Circus and Broadway all rolled in to one! A great idea is to start from Puerta Del Sol Plaza which is one of the main centers of Madrid, with its streets splintering out to other famous landmarks and is full of shops and cafes. Spend time walking the busy alleys and streets that sprout from the plaza. Through this amazing street you will also come across the city’s most acclaimed commercial center, El Corte Ingles which is heavily equipped with a variety of clothing lines, shoes, cosmetics and even electronic gadgets. For a quirky surprise do drop by at the H & M store. After all, it’s not every day that mannequins pose in the glare of footlights and you find the changing rooms in the galleries of a former theatre. Also check out Zara a celebrated Galician store famous for turning round catwalk designs at lightning speed and selling them at amazing deals. The flow of new designs is dazzling, so if you like something, just grab it as it is not likely to be repeated. Move on to Calle Mayor and follow the signs to Plaza Mayor a beautiful square completely surrounded by old Spanish architecture. In the past, it was the center of festivities, bullfights, royal coronations and executions. Now, it is still a place for festivities, and the perfect place to watch street performers and tourists over a café con leche. All in all, Gran Via is  where you can buy the best pair of designer coats, see the latest theater productions, take part in a gay parade, or just delight in the sweet urban clamor. In other words, this area oozes the essence of modern Madrid, serves as a favorite meeting point, and a splendid example of a place where you’d like to spend your day and evening!

EL RASTRO-OUTDOOR SHOPPING

Located between the La Latina and Tirso de Molina, El Rastro is the largest outdoor market in Europe, though opens from 8am to 3pm on a Sunday. In the 17th and 18th century it used to be a huge meat market which is how it got its name. El Rastro means blood stain and refer to the blood stains of the animals sold there…don’t worry none of that happens now. The flea market houses a maximum of three thousand five hundred stalls and is recommended to arrive early in order to take advantage of the many deals and stalls. The main street is full of clothing, souvenirs, jewellery, music, etc but it is in the side lanes where you would discover good bargains on handicrafts and antiques. It is easily accessible by train and bus and agreeably that even if the intention is to just window shop, it is unlikely for anyone to leave the place empty handed. The one phrase that you need to learn and will constantly use is Cuanto Cuesta? (How much is it?)

CALLE SERRANO-LUXURY SHOPPING

Most shops on Calle Serrano run parallel to Paseo de Castellana, as well as Calle Goya and are famed for where Madrid’s rich and famous buy their frivolities. From simple boutiques to the most incredibly classy stores, Calle Serrano has it all. Combining glamour with style and elegance, the place practically dignifies an entire world of high fashion. If you have the money and you don’t mind spending, this area is for you. From Gucci to the spectacular Armani collection, this street features the extreme definition of haute couture. Spanish designer labels include David Delfín, Amaya Arzuaga, Pedro Del Hierro and Adolfo Dominguez. With its hideously expensive yet totally gorgeous leather clothes and accessories, Loewe, Spain’s answer to leather is one store sure to attract.

CALLE DE AUGUSTO FIGUEROA- SHOE SHOPPING

This street is located in the Chueca neighborhood. The narrow street has lots of designer shoe shops at great prices. Interestingly Spain was one of the first shoe manufacturers, and this street proves it. In addition, La Calle Fuencarral, which is nearby, will offer you the coolest and most trendy shops in Madrid including Custo and El Mercado de Fuencarral.

So have fun shopping, a word of advice though, is to be alert at metros and touristy places though Madrid is a generally safe city with low crime rate, however tourists can be easy targets to pick pocketing.

QUIRKY FACTS

• Posh Madrid girls are known as pijas!
• Rebajas means sales
• Shopping in stilettos is de rigueur alias fashion.

FAST FACTS

Best Way to Reach- Fly Jet Airways for the shortest connection time Via Milan or Brussels. A round trip economy class ticket would cost around 44,000.

Visa & Currency- Indians require a Schengen Visa to enter Madrid. Currency used is the Euro. 1 Euro equals 65 INR.

Best way to move around in Madrid- Take a bus or a metro to reach these shopping areas. It costs only 1 Euro (65 INR) to travel to any point.

Best Place to Stay close to all the shopping areas- Located on the imposing Paseo de La Castellana, Madrid’s main boulevard is Hotel Hesperia, Paseo de la Castellana 57, 28046 Madrid – Spain. Tel.: +34 91 210 88 00. Fax: +34 91 210 88 99

Email- hotel@hesperia-madrid.com

Website- www.hesperia-madrid.com

Best Way to Move around in Spain- Eurail is the fastest and most cost effective way to discover the Spanish country.

TOP 5 MUST DO SHOPPING

El Corte Ingles -The most famous chain store in Spain, and easy to be find all over Madrid.

Preto & Branko- A unique store at the Plaza Mayor offering Clothes, shoes, gifts watches, jewellery etc only in black and white.

Sfera - Sells casual and formal clothing and accessories for both men and women. The shop in Gran via is a great option.

Bershka- It is a part of the Spanish group called Inditex, and also includes Zara. It is for the young and hip generation and is all over Madrid.

Caligae- The brands on offer include Farrutx and The Saddler.

Published in Jet Lite

AFFORDABLE LUXURY IN THE PHILLIPINES

This culture rich and affordable luxury destination has long been a favourite with the Europeans, Americans and Australians and now with direct Philippine Airlines flights from Delhi the number of Indian tourists is on the rise. My stay in The Philippines merged into a blur of long, relaxing and fun filled days. I immediately adjusted to the Island lifestyle and exotic pleasures- getting a massage done by the beachside, shopping away or trying my luck at the casino after a meal at a fine ding restaurant. During my weeks stay each of the three must visit places provided a different experience and I not only made wonderful friends from across the world that I will keep for life, but memories that will also last a life time.

SHOPPING AND NIGHTLIFE IN MANILA

I didn’t get to do much sightseeing, but I did get to do some shopping, one of my favourite past-times, with the biggest mall in South East Asia and more… I was sold! The mall of Asia is located by the bay, has a nice boulevard for a stroll, lined with restaurants, entertainments from performing bands, and also carts selling hot snacks and cold drinks. The Green Hills Shopping Centre is a huge complex, houses numerous name brand stores, a supermarket, local vendors and best of all a market which sells every name brand knock off under the sun! Great quality products which you couldn’t even tell were knock-offs at all! Dinner at “Crisostomo” was a mouth-watering taste sensation of arguably the finest Filipino food I could find in the Philippines in Resorts world before we hit the nightlife. Truly, if you want to party then make sure you have a night or two in Manila. I would highly recommend RepubliQ, a Vegas style club and a damn fine one at that and this is where Manila’s finest go for a night out on the town. The club is quite large with a handful of bars craft fully situated all over so no matter where you are there’s a bar conveniently nearby. As for the drinks, I suppose they are a little bit more costly than some places but then again, you are at a club full of beautiful decor, stunning ambience, and of course beautiful people.

FAST FACTS

Best Way to Reach- Fly Philippine Airlines from Delhi to Manila

Best Place to stay: An inviting beacon set in the world-class casino entertainment complex of Resorts World Manila, Marriott Hotel Manila is the place to work and play.

For Reservations: No. 10 Newport Boulevard, Newport City Complex, Pasay City · Phone: 63-2-9889999. Web: www.marriotmanila.com

HISTORIAL CEBU

A popular tourist destinations and one of the oldest cities of the Philippines, this lively and colourful metropolis is regarded as the number one dynamic metro area in this South-East Asian nation and has a lot of historical and cultural landmarks. I found it to be steeped in history and would say that it boasts a tantalizing mix of cosmopolitan and historical appearance; a great and lively hub with a charismatic atmosphere and plenty to see and to do. Enroute to the hotel from the airport we stopped by at a monument on Macatan Island where the tribal chief Lapu Lapu killed Spanish explorer Ferdinand Magellan. The monument and surrounding park incorporated history and spectacular gardens, ringed by souvenir vendors.  Next on the list was the “Magellan's Cross” a symbol of Cebu and the image of the pavilion that houses the cross can be found in the city’s seal. I also dropped by at The Yap-Sandiego Ancestral House (oldest residential house) , just a few steps away from the Parian Monument which is also known as Heritage of Cebu Monument and a few meters away from Colon street. Originally owned by a Chinese merchant named Don Juan Yap and his wife, Dona Maria Florido, today it belongs to Dona Maria’s great great grandson, Val Sandiego. Val himself is known at present times as an art collector, renowned choreographer and heritage icon which were evident when I took the house tour. However if you are not a history buff, no worries, Cebu is also a booming, hectic city and a place with many stories and faces. The city has captivating resorts and beaches; it is a haven for convenient and luxurious shopping malls, retail shops, restaurants, café’s too!

FAST FACTS

Best Way to Reach- Fly Philippine Airlines from Manila to Cebu.

Best Place to stay: Radisson Blu is ideally located on Serging Osmena Boulevard and the corner of Juan Luna Avenue in Cebu City.

For Reservations: North Reclamation Area, Juan Luna Avenue Extension. Phone: 032 402 9900. Web: www.radissonblu.com/hotel-cebu

LIFE IS A BEACH IN BORACAY

A typical Filipino beach day is vastly different from what I am used to! Shops don’t open until 10 am and its people are laid back, unperturbed by the outside frantic western world and more interested in lying on the beach and convincing you to buy souvenirs. I could see tourist attractions in every corner and I did it all …from banana boat to parasailing, beauty treatments, zipping, quad biking and glass water boats and canoes- the list goes on forever. On my last day before heading for an afternoon snorkel, I booked myself for a Filipino spa at the resort. The reef ran the full length of the Island and was only twenty feet from the beach edge. The water was remarkably clear and the underwater fauna and flora before my mask was a kaleidoscope of stunning colours. I swam over hardly touched healthy young corals, discovered many fishes lurking in the shadows and also had an encounter with a curious young turtle. That evening after my four hand harmony massage which was an amazing combination of different strokes, I dressed in a local Sarong and walked along the beach to an Asian speciality restaurant for my dinner.

This island escape was by far the best holidays I have had which I also owe to it being so affordably luxurious. I highly recommend a visit to this tropical paradise.

FAST FACTS

Best Way to Reach- From Manila you can take a flight to either Caticlan or go through Kalibo city. Next will be a minivan ride to the ferry terminal to finally head up to your resort.

Best Place To stay: Boracay Regency Beach Resort for its amazing location and Excellent Spa. A luxurious Superior room with Breakfast will cost you INR 6,500.

For Reservations: Web- www.boracayregency.com

 published in M 

RECTORY CAFE, TORONTO

TORONTO

RECTORY CAFE

102 Lakeshore Ave, Ward’s Island, Toronto, Ontario, Canada.

Reservations: 416-203-2152

Web: www.therectorycafe.com

Cuisine: Global

Cost: Canadian dollars 100(approx.) for two with alcohol.

Reservations Recommended

Wheel chair access: No

REVIEW

The location is charming in itself, sitting comfortably on an Island, with the only access by a ferry. It gorgeously stands among greenery in a nineteenth century rectory converted into a chic café and patio. Thankfully I had a reservation, as it is difficult to find a place in the patio under the pine trees overlooking the Lake more so on a warm sunny afternoon. It is like being as near as you can get to a tropical paradise, balmy breezes at the patio make for a perfect setting. With an endless expanse of blue sky within reach, the restaurant takes its external tropical landscaping and warm interiors to the next level. The design seems to be inspired by the collision of rustic simplicity and glamour. Needless to add for people around being here seemed reason enough; soaking in the grandeur of an elegant era while enjoying a selection of viands below reproach.

Really intoxicating food! The menu touches on several cuisines including Turkish, Italian, Greek, Spanish and even Japanese. Moroccan chickpeas are delightful and paella though not quite a complex as that in Valencia is nonetheless very good eating with lots of seafood, meat and vegetables in grainy rice. Other specialities include the Ontario Chipotle Bison Burger and pulled pork Panini. Good cheeseboard and tantalising desserts ranging from luscious fruits to tiramisu and New York style cheesecake. Most unpretentious, Rectory café has for long been a favourite for those who want good, wholesome food. The restaurant attracts a discerning crowd from all walks of life.

Published in India Today Travel Plus

MY KENYAN ADVENTURE

There is much to see and do in Kenya. It is accessible to all—be it the free and adventurous, the leisure travellers, the silver-haired groups or the families. This culture rich and affordable destination has long been a favourite with the Europeans, Americans and Australians and now with Direct Air Arabia Airlines flights from Delhi and Mumbai ( a round trip fare to Kenya is between INR 20,000 to 25,000 only )the number of Indian tourists is on the rise. During my weeks stay each of the three must visit places provided a different experience and I not only made wonderful friends from across the world that I will keep for life, but memories that will also last a life time.

AMBOSELI

We did four game drives in total and having very little vegetation made it easier to spot animals. The star attraction here is the elephants. Everywhere we looked they could be seen, either solitary loners or massive herds scattered across the landscape. In addition to elephants, we saw hippos, buffalo, giraffes, wildebeests, antelopes, zebras, hyenas, and an amazing variety of bird life. On one of our game drives, we stopped by the huge swamp, anxiously scanning the breath of it, looking for all types of animals. This swamp is always full of fresh water and plant life due to the melting of the snow from the mountain. We had the opportunity to view elephants, Cape buffalos, and hippos, all chomping away, sometimes almost completely submerged as they filled their bellies with the lush green growth. On our last evening we enjoyed sun downer drinks atop Observation Hill with views of Mt Kilimanjaro….Bliss!

FAST FACTS

Best Way to Reach- Take a chartered flight from Nairobi’s Wilson Airport.

Best place to Stay- OlTukai lodge, an Eco-rated lodge with a unique collection of African art.

Reservations-Tel: 254-0456-22275 /Fax: 254-0456-22280

Email: oltukailodge@manrikgroup.com / oltukaifrontoffice@manrikgroup.com

Web: www.oltukailodge.com

LAMU

Just off the northern Kenyan coast, 40 miles from Somalia, is a little stretch of car-free paradise, also a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Only two cars exist on the island, one for the hospital and the other for the police station, hence the herd of donkeys and narrow motor boats. Am not sure though that Lamu is not touristy - the number of smart hotels and restaurants on the sea front prove that it is but it’s managed to keep its charm and hasn’t yet lost its soul. Narrow winding alleys, exquisitely carved wooden doors lining coral pathways and the bustling Arabs, each sparkling in the fierce village lighting. The town is mesmerizing with scents of humanity harvesting, preparing and cooking spicy Swahili dishes. Mix the aromas with various loads of donkey dung, raw prawns and red snapper, into the perfume and voila—a rustic seaport ripe with tradition.

FAST FACTS

Best Way to Reach - From the mainland you have to jump in a ferry or a speedboat to get to the island itself.

Best place to Stay- With awe-inspiring seafront views over the Ras Kitau bay and Shela village, one can relax at “The Majlis” in the lap of Lamu Island’s unaffected charm.

Reservations- Deepa or Claire, Warwick Centre, Gigiri, Nairobi. Tel: +254 (0) 712 3300/1/2. Mobile: +254 (0) 773 777 066. Fax: +254 (0) 20 712 3303.

E-mail: welcome@themajlisresorts.com

Web: www.themajlisresorts.com

WATAMU

The next part of our travels took us across the border and north to the small town of Watamu on the Kenyan coast. Set in an idyllic location, the town has an upbeat but relaxed feel to it. It has got one main street and the beach and that’s about it. However, tourism thrives here there thanks to the Italians, who dominate the local area; especially the next main town which is much larger called Malindi. Watamu maintains the small town feel but has some of the luxuries like red wine and traditional wood fired pizza! And while the vendors and waiters assume that everyone is Italian, it is very much a soft sell and they are happy enough to take no for an answer, which is always good. While in Watamu we even got out for a dive on the local marine park and it was like diving in a tropical aquarium, with lots of tropical fish and pretty corals. It also helped diving in 28 degree water with huge visibility.

FAST FACTS

Best Way to Reach- It is an hour’s drive away from Malindi airport.

Best Place To stay- “Garoda” is a unique resort overlooking the stunning beach of Watamu Marine Park, 2o miles south of Malindi.

Reservations - Tel: + 254 (0) 20 2437871/Mobile: 0721242711 (Safaricom)

Email: info@africanspicesafaris.com

Web: www.africanspicesafaris.com

published in The Man

MY JAPANESE CULINARY JOURNEY

What can be a better way to experience Japan than a dedicated culinary tour to savour its tapestry of tastes, colours and smells? My food trail leads you into Japan’s popular streets to relish the Land of the Rising Sun’s delicacies and good news is that eating out in the country is not expensive at all!!!

OKONOMIYAKI IN HIROSHIMA

Sample this, a combination of noodles, cabbage, Japanese mayonnaise, meat and seafood of your choice, cheese, udon or soba noodles and eggs all grilled into a pizza size pancake of perfection - then topped with the decadence known as Okonomiyaki sauce! While the noodles are warming on the grill, the chef creates a thin circle of batter, which looks very similar to our humble ‘Dosa’ and then places the ingredients you chose on top of it. He scrambles an egg and places it on a circle as well on the griddle. The noodles and the egg are then placed on top of the ‘Dosa’. With their spatulas, the chefs dramatically and carefully flip over the okonomiyaki to cook it through and the result is a tight, perfectly-shaped, consistent circle….decadent to the core!

INTERESTING FACT- Also known as Hiroshima’s ‘soul food’ okonomiyaki seems to have evolved from a pre-war children’s snack called issen-youshoku, which consisted of a folded crepe topped with onions and Worchester sauce.

OCTOPUS IN OSAKA

While shopping in Osaka’s market I had this craving to eat some snack. Ramen was easily available but it would stuff me up I knew. Then I noticed these Takoyaki (octopus treats) stalls all over the place and seemed to be Osaka’s quintessential street food which has been popular in Osaka and the surrounding Kansai area since the early 1930’s. Basically round octopus fritters – crispy on the outside, creamy on the inside, and anchored by the firm bite of octopus. It took a couple years for them to settle on what exactly to put inside the gooey dough, with using beef and egg before they eventually hit upon the idea of octopus. Toppings can vary from seaweed; bonito fish flakes, Okonomi-yaki sauce and mayonnaise! It takes great agility and a steady hand to twist the dumplings with chopsticks while they cook on a special pan. I ordered half-dozen, which costed me about INR300 for that quantity and yes…it did satiate my palate.

INTERESTING FACT- There is a museum dedicated to Takoyaki in Osaka, located in the Universal Studios City Walk shops and restaurants centre on the 4th floor.

TOFU GALORE IN KYOTO

Kyoto’s streets spew historical elements and culture. There are a lot of souvenir shops, some of them with the cutest goods. It’s like going back in time. People always say if you like Japanese culture then Kyoto is a place you must visit and a visit to Kyoto is incomplete without a tofu meal. Fresh tofu in Japan is far better than it is anywhere else, and Kyoto is deemed the place in the country to eat quality tofu. This is perhaps attributed to the skill, refined court and temple-influenced culture and the quality of the local water. Whatever the reason, to most Japanese people Kyoto means tofu! One can experience soy’s platonic ideal, at any one of a handful of Kyoto’s excellent tofu restaurants. Serving fresh tofu in a variety of forms—creamy as pudding, light and airy, dense and chewy—The yudofu set meal, which changes slightly with the seasons, includes a pot of tofu boiled at your table, fried tofu on a stick, vegetable tempura, yam soup, and pickled vegetables. I would highly recommend it all.

INTERESTING FACT-Authentic, handcrafted tofu relies on high-quality soy beans, good water in which to soak and boil them, and of course the expertise of the tofu maker.

GO CHINESE IN YOKAHAMA

Located at Motomachi Chukagai station, it was a forty-minute ride by express train from central Tokyo. What separates Yokohama from other Japanese cities is Chinatown, the largest Chinese neighbourhood not only in Japan but the world too, and attracts over 18 million visitors per year, and is also the biggest tourist draw in town. For a foodie like me the best reason to stop in Chinatown is the food. Popular favourites include steamed pork buns, sweet chestnut, ramen noodles and a wide array of other Chinese dishes. As I strolled along I discovered authentic Chinese ingredients, like fried shallots, fiery-hot chili paste, and dried scallops and the steamed pork bun stalls were at almost every corner and looked fat and succulent. At the small by lanes, one can spot lively shops promising delicious dishes with the aroma of garlic and oyster sauce wafting out. I went in for an all-you-can-eat dim sum spread which was delicious. The only Japanese elements here were the spinach dumplings. They used sticky mochi as the skin but it tasted awesome.

INTERESTING FACT -The district has over 160 restaurants serving every regional style of Chinese food imaginable, a fact that led Fodor’s to label it “the best place for lunch in Yokohama”.

IZAKAYA FUN IN TOKYO

For a local night out in Tokyo an Izakaya, a traditional type of Japanese bar something on the lines of a tapas bar makes a great choice. Literally translates into ‘a place where there is Sake’.  I found many Izakaya in Tokyo ranging from a stand up bar with room for around 15 people, to a huge brightly lit place seating a 100 people. Some specialize in a particular type of food such as yakitori or tofu while others have a varied menu for one to choose from. Metro stations make an excellent hunting ground for these fast food lively, tasty and pocket-friendly Izakaya. My friend and I ordered some beer, along with some gyoza, fried small fish, Edamame, sushi and barbecued pork belly. This is a perfect place to go with a big group so one can try lots of different things.

INTERESTING FACT- The history of izakaya started when sake shops opened their shops for drinking to customers. Today it serves foods to accompany the drinks.

published in fnl