When it comes to doughnuts, the sugary, circular pieces of dried dough may come to mind. There are literally endless types of doughnuts in the world that are sure to satisfy any sweet tooth. Brew a cup of coffee and read on about some types of delicious doughnuts around the world.
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CHURRO IN MEXICO, SPAIN AND PARTS OF LATIN AMERICA
Originated as a Spanish breakfast and found renewed popularity across Latin America, churros can now be found all around the world. They are sprinkled with cinnamon and sugar after deep frying and may also be filled with jam. In Mexico, you can find them at pretty much all times of the day and often alongside liquid chocolate and blueberry sauce to dip in. In the US, you can easily find these doughnuts throughout the country, from the streets of California to the subway stations in New York City.
BERLINER PFANNKUCHEN IN GERMANY
Also known as bismarcks, Berliner pfannkuchen are fried, doughnut-like pastries without a hole that are often simply called “Berliners”. These are basically jelly doughnuts by a different name, filled with cream, jam or chocolate and dusted with confectioners’ sugar. Be careful when you are eating them in Germany because it is a popular practical joke to fill one of the Berliners in a pile with mustard instead of something sweet.
ZEPPOLE IN ITALY
If you want to taste a popular type of doughnut when you are in Italy, zeppole is a must on your bucket list. These are like filled doughnuts with the top blown off. The fried dough can be filled with custard, jam or anything else you desire. In Italy, the filling depends on where you are in the country. Some regions go sweet with fillings like blended ricotta and sugar, others go savoury with anchovies.
AN-DOUGHNUT IN JAPAN
One of the types you will find in Japan is an-doughnut. This Japanese doughnut is made with fried dough that is typically filled with a red bean paste. It is similar to the anpan, a Japanese sweet roll that is also often filled with red bean paste. The most popular place to grab one is at one of the many Mister Donut locations, which have been serving an-doughnuts since 1983. Make sure to check out this dish on your upcoming trip to Japan.
OLIEBOLLEN IN THE NETHERLANDS
The Dutch’s fried dough snack is the oliebollen, which translates directly to “oil bulbs”. These deep-fried sweet doughnut-like dumplings are usually filled with raisins or nuts and dusted with powdered sugar. During the cold winter months, these fried balls are widely sold throughout the Netherlands and hold a very special place as the traditional New Years’ treat.
SEL ROTI IN NEPAL
In Nepal, people love to eat sel roti, which is a delicacy for fried dough rings normally eaten during Hindu holidays and celebrations such as the festivals of Dashain and Tihar. What sets sel roti apart from the rest of the fried pieces of dough on this list is that it is made with rice flour instead of wheat. It can also be found in Sikkim and Darjeeling in India.
BALUSHAHI IN INDIA, PAKISTAN
If you are a doughnut lover, then you must to try this type of doughnut when you are travelling to India. As a popular dish in North India as well as in neighbouring Pakistan, balushahi consists of rings of flour that are deep-fried in clarified butter or ghee. It is then soaked in hot syrup, giving it a moist, sugary centre and a flaky rich exterior.
PICARONES IN PERU
Picarones are made with fried squash and sweet potato instead of wheat. They are eaten as a street food snack or an after-dinner dessert and are often covered with a sweet syrup called chancaca made from unrefined cane sugar.
YOUTIAO IN CHINA
This Chinese doughnut is a popular street snack called youtiao which is meant to be dipped in warm soy milk and eaten for breakfast. The stick of fried dough is slightly salty as well as sweet. It is one of the more versatile types of doughnuts and can be used to dip into other foods or stuffed like a sandwich. It is known by a variety of other names in other East and Southeast Asian cuisines such as cakwe in Indonesia, e kya kway in Myanmar and pathongko in Thailand.
When it comes to Vietnamese rolls, each dish offers foreign foodies a completely different insight into the country’s cuisine. Though for many Vietnamese people, this dish evokes a great sense of nostalgia that stirs their cravings wherever they go.
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PHO ROLLS – THE SIGNATURE FLAVOUR OF HANOI
When Pho pops up in conversation, a hot bowl of noodle soup served with either beef or chicken or a delicious plate of stir-fried pho immediately springs to mind. However, there is another dish of its kind that is a firm favourite of many diners: Pho rolls. Bearing a close resemblance to Hanoians’ characteristics, the dish is so simple, delicate and distinctive that they can tantalise your tastebuds from the very first bite.
The story of Hanoian Pho rolls derives from a small Pho restaurant located at the crossroad on Ngu Xa street near Truc Bach Lake. It was late at night, there was no more broth at the restaurant, so the owner quickly created an alternative recipe. After brushing a thin layer of the dough on an oiled cooking tray, he let it cool and then wrapped it full of beef and herbs and served it with a small bowl of delicious dipping sauce. Many diners raved about this variation of the traditional Pho and Pho rolls have since become a popular speciality unique to Ngu Xa Street.
Hanoian Pho rolls are basically a combination of rectangular rice papers, stir-fried beef and an assortment of fresh vegetables such as lettuce, coriander, bean sprouts and more. In addition, a sumptuous plate of Pho rolls is usually served with a flavourful dip. This sauce is typically made of diluted fish sauce, a little sugar, garlic, chillies and pickled vegetables. Neither fussy nor expensive, Pho rolls are just a seamless combination of the simplest ingredients. Chowing down on a plate of these Vietnamese rolls at a street stall is also a fascinating experience that has added a unique feature to Hanoian cuisine.
NEM LUI TYPICAL OF CENTRAL VIETNAM
Known as a foodie paradise, Central Vietnam is home to Nem Lui, Hue’s take on the famous Vietnamese rolls that are perfect for fighting off any cravings. Nem Lui Hue is the embodiment of authentic cuisine in Hue. So much so in fact you can smell the signature scent of lemongrass lingering in each and every road and alley around the city. It is not a complicated dish to make.
After being minced, the meat will be marinated in a secret recipe and then thread onto a stick of lemongrass and finally barbecued on a hot grill until turning golden brown. these Vietnamese rolls are best served with the local fish sauce which is considered the soul of Nem Lui Hue. Made from minced peanuts, fish sauce and either minced liver or pork, the sauce boasts a characteristic-rich aroma that cannot be found anywhere else.
For an ultimate Nem Lui Hue experience, diners have to wrap these freshly baked lemongrass skewers in a thin layer of rice paper and add some fresh vegetables such as lettuce, herbs, bean sprouts, cucumbers, starfruits, green mango and noodles. Enjoying a dish of rolled meat and vegetables whilst chatting and enjoying each other’s company is a simple yet fascinating culinary pleasure had by locals.
SOUTHERN FRESH SPRING ROLLS BURST WITH DIVERSE FLAVOURS
Saigon is famous for countless delicious dishes such as broken rice, noodles and mixed rice papers. However, fresh spring rolls are also worth a try when travelling to this metropolis. These fresh spring rolls are widely available, but only in Southern Vietnam, can you really enjoy the proper fresh spring roll experience.
Originating from the Southern provinces, fresh spring rolls are typically rolled in a soft, translucent rice paper and stuffed with a vast array of different ingredients. To create delightful fresh spring rolls, you need to prepare lots of ingredients, including boiled pork or shrimp, noodles, sliced cucumbers, chives, split scallions, pickled carrots, starfruits, herbs, lettuce, bean sprouts and basil. All will be garnished and then rolled carefully and beautifully in a very thin layer of rice paper that defnitely has diners watering at the mouth. Interestingly, Southern fresh spring rolls are either boiled or eaten raw, which means the dish retains the fresh flavours and stimulating the tastebuds without being too heavy in the scorching heat common in the South.
Additionally, the sauce of this dish can be varied to suit individual preference. You will be spoilt for choice with many options such as fish sauce seasoned with chillies and garlic, fermented fish, black soy sauce or even peanut sauce, which is the perfect accompaniment for fresh spring rolls. From top-end restaurants to quaint street food stalls, Southern fresh spring rolls intrigue many diners from far and wide.
When the drizzly spells stop and the humidity clears, April marks the beginning of summer with brilliantly honey-hued sunshine flooding the streets and dancing through the trees. April welcomes the fresh blooming of summery flowers typical to each and every region, creating a carnival of colour and fragrance.
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A PURE OF MADONNA LILY FLOWERS
Flower arranging has been an enjoyable pastime for Hanoians for many years. Throughout April, you will easily catch sight of bicycles adorned with a variety of beautiful blooms on the streets and alleyways of the ancient capital. When thinking about which flower marks the most impressive transition between spring and summer, Madonna lily flowers might spring to mind with their delicate beauty and perfectly pungent fragrance.
Madonna lilies, also known as hoa hue tay, bloom only in April. Lilies are often considered inferior to other flowers, but this pretty flower holds its own with its pure white petals and lush green leaves, likened to Tonkin girls with gentle, timid yet equally passionate characteristics. On blooming, each flower opens its petals to display the inner yellow stamen that gives off a pleasant scent in the gentle April breeze. Wherever you are in Hanoi during the lily blooming period, you will fall in love with flower bicycles pedaling leisurely through the streets at sunrise, each bundle of flowers glistening with drops of dew. The flower-clad bicycles are just one of the subtle signals that summer is just around the corner.
Where to see Madonna lily flowers in Hanoi: – You will find many traditional bicycles full of Madonna lily flowers on the roads of Thuy Khue, Thanh Nien, Phan Dinh Phung and Giang Vo – If you want to appreciate a sweeping carpet of lilies, pay a visit to Tay Tuu and Quang Ba flower villages in Hanoi
SAIGON WELCOMES A SUNNY BURST OF YELLOW IN APRIL
When it is scorching hot in Saigon in mid-April, the locals have the opportunity to enjoy the stunningly intense beauty of yellow scorpion trees stretching in long lines as far as the eye can see. The yellow scorpion flower is also known as Cassia fistula, water scorpion, late spring tree and Osaka blossom. On blooming, these bright yellow flowers look so attractive and radiant with their perfectly scorpion-shaped pistil, they are a definite head-turner. The dynamic metropolis erupts into a yellow carpet of scorpion blossoms during the peak season. This eye-popping flower resembles sunshine with its warm yellow tones. It brings a sense of immediate relaxation under the dense canopy.
Saigon in April is hot, but there can be a gentle breeze whistling through the city, causing the clusters of flowers to sway back and forth, catching passers-by’s attention. This yellow-flowered plant actually blooms all year round, but the peak season is usually between late spring and early summer when the scorpion trees are in full bloom. These unique blossoms form a romantic picture-perfect landscape filled with vitality amidst the metropolis of Saigon. Take a stroll along the rows of yellow scorpion flowers and soak up the atmosphere, you will see many workers stopping to rest, cooling down with a mug of iced tea, laughing and cracking jokes with their friends. It is said that these treasured blooms bring closeness, inspire deep emotion and are an integral part of Vietnamese culture.
Where to see the yellow scorpion flowers in Saigon: – The rows of yellow scorpion flowers thrive on Dien Bien Phu Street (Binh Thanh District), Dam Thuan Huy Street, Tan Huong Street, Le Lu Street (Tan Phu District) and in the area around Saigon Technology University.
AZALEA FLOWERS IN SA PA
If you have ever travelled to Sa Pa in late March or early April, you might have seen the azalea flowers popping up in clusters all over the main roads to local villages. Azaleas bloom all year round, but this floral plant provides the most beautiful views during springtime. To celebrate the flowerflled spring scene, locals host an annual azalea festival that attracts droves of visitors from far and wide.
Azaleas intrigue many flower lovers with their scenic charm, mesmerising fragrance and spectrum of colours that range from red, purple and pink to pure white. These beautifully colourful flowers blanket the picturesque grassy hills, compliment the idyllic traditional houses and create an impressive floral display amidst the misty town of Sa Pa, transforming it into an enchanted fairyland away from a chaotic life. In late spring, the Hoang Lien Son Range comes alive in a brilliant carpet of azalea varieties, making the Northwestern mountains, hills and forests the perfect backdrop. Picture this, the pleasant cool spring weather of Sa Pa, the azalea forests shrouded in mist, you would feel like you were visiting a floral garden in Europe. Azaleas, dubbed the Queen flower of the Northwestern region, not only symbolise Sa Pa’s beauty, but are also the most brilliant flower in Vietnam at this time of year.
Where to see azaleas in Sa Pa: – Hoang Lien Son Range and Fansipan Peak are the best places in Northern Vietnam to soak up the most colourful views of azaleas. If you are keen on trekking, take a walk through the forest on Hoang Lien Son to catch a glimpse of these flowers. Additionally, you can see azaleas from above while travelling to Fansipan Peak by cable car.
FALL IN LOVE WITH TRAU FLOWERS IN HA GIANG
Ha Giang Province, the northernmost tip of Vietnam, captivates both locals and travellers with its stunning magnificence, splendour and romance. Every season, Ha Giang boasts a different beauty, but in April, the province becomes even more pristine and enthralling as Trau flowers burst with colour in full bloom. Trau flowers symbolise love and purity. Each cluster of white-hued flowers combined with the vibrant green leaves on a backdrop of undulating mountains and hills bring a little slither of simplicity and intimacy to the expansive Northwestern landscape.
When the Trau flowers are in full bloom, the scenery explodes into a riot of pure white, covering the lush green hills and lining the small roads towards the peaceful villages. This white-flowered plant is thought to be the embodiment of the Ha Giang residents who are generous, hospitable, optimistic and progressive. Travelling to Ha Giang during the floral season, you will be mesmerised by stunning nature as the romantic petals fall gently onto the roadside. Once you have seen the flowers unique to this mountainous region, they will be engraved on your memory. You will have fallen in love with the Ha Giang Province and you will certainly want to revisit the area at this beautiful time of year.
Where to see Trau flowers in Ha Giang: – Aside from Trau flowers, Ha Giang in April is renowned for a variety of love markets such as Khau Vai love market, Du Gia – Duong Thuong love market, Lung Lan – Son Vi love market and many more. Take a visit to Ha Giang to experience the bustling festivals and appreciate the pristine Trau flowers that symbolise endless love.
I still vividly remember how excited my classmates and I felt when we planned to go to Mai Chau when we were in high school. However, our trip did not go ahead. It was not until ten years later that I had the opportunity to travel to Mai Chau. On the way to Mai Chau, I wondered whether I would still feel the excitement and the sense of awe that I anticipated when I was younger? I was intrigued to see what Mai Chau had to offer, would it be all that I had envisaged after many years?
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You will have undoubtedly heard of Mai Chau. Aside from being a widely popular tourist attraction for high school students, it is a place that invites people to recharge their batteries and realign their values and goals. As the crow flies, Hanoi is about 140km, so approximately three to four hours driving. Mai Chau is an idyllic small town in the west of Hoa Binh Province that shares its borders with Moc Chau District in Son La Province and Quan Hoa District in Thanh Hoa Province. A far cry from other bustling industrial cities, Mai Chau is renowned for bright flowers, verdant vegetation, rolling lush paddy fields dotted with thatched cottages and a peaceful ambience. Home to intriguing mysteries, Mai Chau exudes a beauty that is both familiar and strange.
THE MOMENT THE VALLEY WAS STILL ASLEEP
It was nearly 5 am when I got to Mai Chau, I felt lucky to be able to open the car window and deeply inhale the fresh air of the small valley. “Wow! Mai Chau is so peaceful”, I said with excitement. It felt as if everything around me was still asleep, lethargically awakening from a restful slumber. There was an awe-inspiring cacophony of village sounds in the distance: chickens crowing, birds chirping and even the distant murmurings of haggling at the morning markets.
Many people say that a trip to Mai Chau would not be complete without soaking up the majestic natural spectacle of Thung Khe Pass. Therefore, it was the first destination on my itinerary. Thung Khe is well-known for its spectacular silver-white rocky mountains, but it was not until we hit the road that I realised how overwhelmingly stunning this region was. Thung Khe is like somewhere straight out of a mystical fairytale.
As the vast expanse of nature shrouded in early morning mist slowly arose, the landscape revealed a scene that looked like you had picked it straight from the snowy Nordic mountains. I stood still on Thung Khe Pass for a long time admiring the marvellous beauty of nature dappled by the blue of the sky, the lush green of the plants, the bright white limestone and the mahogany brown of small houses in the distance. It was such a magical amalgamation that I could not find the words to express my admiration.
After leaving the majestic timelessness of Thung Khe, I visited the tranquil Ba Khan Lake. Located at the foot of Thung Khe Pass, the lake is dubbed “Ha Long Bay of the mountainous region” with an amazing variety of undulating islets. In the morning, Ba Khan is beautifully serene but somewhat mysterious as it is often cloaked in dense mist. The increasing popularity of Thung Khe Pass, Mai Chau and Moc Chau in recent years has perhaps left Ba Khan to become a forgotten paradise. However, it was a blessing as I had the chance to enjoy the charmingly peaceful landscape without any crowds.
GET LOST IN THE RHYTHM OF LIFE IN THE MOUNTAINS
Over the course of the weekend in Mai Chau, I visited many other must-visit tourist attractions in the locality, for instance, Lac Village, Pom Coong Village, Go Lao Waterfall and Mo Luong Cave. Every moment on the road made me fall head over heels for this place as it boasts such a picturesque splendour, magnificence and tranquillity unique to mountainous regions. I also had a realisation that Vietnam is just as beautiful and easily comparable to other famous destinations around the globe.
My most cherished moments were those spent experiencing the daily life of the locals in Mai Chau. On the trip, we spent one day staying in a traditional stilted house of the Thai ethnic minority. The house has an extremely distinctive design, complete with a thatched roof, bamboo floor and a minimalistic, comfortable interior. As a curious and adventurous traveller, I opted to wear a traditional Thai costume and then explored the villages. Initially, Mai Chau impressed me with its great richness of nature and pristine beauty, but the rhythm of local life will truly linger in my memory forever.
Along the way, I heard the villagers laughing and telling jokes and funny stories; admired several shops that spread their colourful brocade items out on the ground in the stilted houses and even women hand-weaving towels. There is no need for anything flashy and lavish, their lives just pass by quietly and smoothly with such ease. This is truly a rare and precious notion that I am always looking for in modern-day society.
After a leisurely ride along a small dirt road, I felt tired and sat down to rest. Suddenly, I could hear a beautiful voice singing a traditional melody typical to the Northwest mountains mixed with a cheerful Cheraw dance. As a result, I forgot how tired I felt and quickly ran to join in. The performers danced gracefully to the rhythmic beats whilst their traditional costumes brightened up the surroundings, mesmerising me and many other travellers with the rhythm of the traditional dance of Mai Chau.
After the trip, I have to say that Mai Chau made a strong impression on me thanks to a collection of peaceful, rustic, simple and poetic moments. The alluring valley makes me realise the precious values of life: “No need for anything expensive or luxurious, the happiest moments arise when we truly connect with nature and appreciate a simpler and slower pace of life”. It is believed that Mai Chau will definitely earn a reputation as a popular destination in the future, the town will become more and more dynamic and the living conditions will also improve dramatically. Nonetheless, I still wish, wistfully, for Mai Chau to retain its rustic charm and peaceful ambience.
W. TIPSTO MAI CHAU
CLIMATE
There are two distinct seasons in Mai Chau. The rainy season begins from May to October and the dry season lasts from November to April. If you do not want to experience intermittent rains or the possibility of landslides, the dry season is probably the best time to visit. What’s more, Mai Chau is famous for the plum blossoms and cherry blossoms in January and February.
TRANSPORTATION
Mai Chau is in close proximity to Hanoi, so you are spoilt for choice with many means of transportation to reach Mai Chau. You can travel by motorbike or private car and drive along the Hoa Lac – Hoa Binh route and NH6. When reaching the Tong Dau T-junction, you will see directions to Mai Chau.
ACCOMMODATION
Travelling to Mai Chau, you should not miss out on a reasonably priced overnight stay in a traditional stilted house in Lac and Poom Coong villages. Additionally, Mai Chau is home to a vast array of local homestays and luxury resorts located in nature-inspired settings.
CUISINE
Mai Chau cuisine is typical of traditional dishes of the Thai ethnic minority such as grilled chicken, sticky rice cooked in bamboo shoots, grilled fish, smoked buffalo and marinated meat. With stunning gourmet flavours, these dishes can definitely match many people’s tastes.
If burning the candle at both ends makes you feel burnout, a bit of solitude in tranquil retreats is a wonderful idea to calm your mind and resume your spirits. Here are the best temple hotels in Japan, where you can detach from the daily grind for rest and reflection.
Located in the Wakayama Prefecture, Japan, the Koyasan Fudoin Temple was originally built to accommodate Buddhist priests and practitioners before welcoming regular visitors. The temple is home to simple accommodations with serene surrounding gardens that is suitable for solitude-seeking travellers. Here, you will have the opportunity to enjoy Buddhist vegetarian dishes in the shoin or 450-year-old traditional study hall. In addition, some of the Buddhist religious services available every morning including Ajikan Meditation and Buddhist sutras transcription are amazing experiences that you should not skip. With the soothing sound from the pond and garden views, this temple hotel offers the utmost tranquility for those who want to retrieval from the busy life and immerse themselves in tradition.
Price: from $123/night for a Japanese-style room, breakfast and dinner.
Located in the center of Mt. Koya, Wakayama Prefecture, Japan, the Ichijoin Temple is originally a space for Buddhist priests and practitioners that currently allows visitors to observe the daily rituals. Visiting this cozy temple lodging, you can enjoy the Buddhist vegetarian cuisine or Shojin Ryori that is prepared using seasonal ingredients and is very popular with previous guests. Sutra transcription and Buddhist image tracing are also interesting religious experiences for those who want to indulge in tradition and escape from the modern world.
Price: from $290/night for a Japanese-style room, breakfast and dinner.
Situated in the north of the Nara Prefecture, Japan, the Chikurinin Gunpoen Temple with an area of 33,000 square meters was constructed by Sen no Rikyu, the famous tea master creating the Japanese tea ceremony school. With the elegant amalgamation between traditional and modern aesthetics, the temple intrigues travelers seeking solitude for rest and reflection. Visiting the temple, you will definitely fall in love with the view of the Yoshino and Zao-do Hall mountains with the cotton rose flowers visible from the hilltop. Take your time for meditation and breathwork in the garden that was rebuilt by Sen no Rikyu in the Momoyama period to resume your spirits set your mind calm.
Price: from $213/night for a Japanese-style room, breakfast and dinner.
Situated at the center of the Koyasan Mountains close to the Karukayado Temple, Koyasan University, and the Kongobuji Temple, the Wakayama prefecture, Japan, the Jimyoin Temple is a perfect destination to detach from the buzzing life. By the time you reach the temple, you will be greeted with a warm cup of tea and debriefed about activities and meals during your stay. Vegetarian meals are served in-room, creating a private intimate setting for solitude seekers. For a more adventurous and complete trip, you can take a pilgrimage to the Koyasan Mountain and relax in an onsen, a Japanese hot spring.
Price: from $126/night for a Japanese-style room, breakfast and dinner.
If you are looking for a temple lodging to recharge your batteries, the Shigisan Gyokuzoin Temple located in the northwestern region of Nara in Quasi-National Park is the perfect destination. Constructed in the Asuka period around the year 593 B.C by Prince Shotoku, a philosopher and politician, this spacious and picturesque guesthouse consists of three sub-temples specifically designated for lodging. With its captivity of up to 200 guests, this idyllic temple is home to single and medium-sized multi-occupancy rooms. Here, you will have the opportunity to enjoy the public bath and a warm cup of tea at the property tea house. Aside from vegetarian meals, you can order a traditional, multi-course kaiseki meal to try a variety of Japanese cuisine.
Price: from $100/night for a Japanese-style room, breakfast and dinner.
Known as the oldest building of the three guesthouses located on the grounds near Gyokuzoin Temple, the Senju-in Temple owns the architecture dating back to the Edo period, with calming Japanese-style art and outdoor space. This temple accommodates up to 100 guests with 18 rooms. Visiting this idyllic temple, you should not miss the amazing experiences with a fee including scripture writing and zen meditation. No matter what you choose to do, the Senju-in Temple is worth a visit to recharge your batteries.
Price: from $90/night for a Japanese-style room, breakfast and dinner.
Whether you are a local or visitor, if you want to get intimate with this city, check out these seven rooftop bars in Los Angeles with the best views, from Malibu sunsets to city views over the Sunset Strip.
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L.P. ROOFTOP BARIN LOS ANGELES
Located above E.P., a restaurant featuring a hodgepodge of vibrant Asian cuisine, the L.P. rooftop bar is one of the largest rooftop patios in Los Angeles. Aside from stunning views, the bar features a global snack menu and handcrafted cocktail program that is perfect for any get together, day and night. There is nothing better than sipping a delightful cocktail whilst watching the sun setting on West Hollywood. Hit this roof at just the right time during the summer and you can catch an outdoor screening.
Address: 603 N La Cienega Boulevard, Los Angeles 90069, California, USA Opening hours: Monday – Friday 4pm – 12am and Saturday – Sunday 12pm – 12am
MAMA SHELTER
If you are looking for a rooftop bar as a hotel and a restaurant in Los Angeles, you should take a visit to Mama Shelter. The bright space is splattered with multicoloured sofas and chairs, where you can lounge while waiting for your salmon pita to arrive. On warm nights, you can dance under the stars while DJs spin an eclectic mix of music or take in a classic movie on their outdoor screen. There is also a foosball table, a yoga area and sweeping views of Hollywood.
Situated at the stunning rooftop of the platform in Culver City, Margot is a very popular spot. Take a visit to this bar on the early end so that you can stake out a table on the heated patio, as opposed to the glassed-in atrium. With a Mediterranean-leaning menu, especially when it comes to wine, Margot intrigues a lot of chic friends and romantic couples on dates. There is also a collection of gin and tonics, boozy slushies and bright, breezy cocktails, as well as a variety of different dining experiences for your preference.
Address: 8820 Washington Boulevard, Culver City, California 90232, USA Opening hours: Daily 11am – 3am
HIGH ROOFTOP LOUNGE
High Rooftop Lounge is a completely open-air destination, overlooking the Pacific Ocean, Muscle Beach and the Venice Beach Boardwalk. It offers a variety of stunning views, day and night. Evening bar-goers can wrap themselves in one of the bar’s cozy blankets, along with spiked cocoa or hot toddy. If you do not like your drinks sweet, stick to local craft brews to pair with gourmet sliders and street tacos. This rooftop bar is truly perfect for small groups and casual gatherings.
Address: Hotel Erwin 1697 Pacific Avenue, Los Angeles 90291, USA Opening hours: Wednesday – Friday 3pm – 10pm, Saturday – Sunday 11am – 10pm
ÉLEPHANTE
This breezy, all-day rooftop restaurant and bar is a perfect retreat at all times of the day. Here, guests can enjoy bright food with seasonal ingredients on the plate and in the cocktails, but the real star is the view. The indoor-outdoor space feels like a dream living room with modern, comfortable-but-chic furniture and a stunning view of the ocean off the patio. For the most perfect bar experience at Élephante, you should book in advance instead of fighting the Westside’s most gorgeous clientele for a walk-in spot.
This rooftop bistro is one of the prettiest in town with its patterned tile floors and potted trees full of twinkly lights. Inside, the eclectic French décor displays a series of tasteful boudoir paintings over the bar and a scattering of plush sofas. Guests can sample a wide selection of wines and kir-style cocktails. The after-work crowd drops in for happy hour, dubbed Apéritif Hour, weekdays from 4pm to 6pm, while late-night partygoers and music-lovers can find frequent DJ sets and live bands.
Address: 448 S Hill Street, 13th floor, Los Angeles 90013, USA
SPIRE 73
Perched atop InterContinental Los Angeles Downtown’s 73rd floor is Spire 73 – the bar that just so happens to lay claim to the title of the tallest open-air bar in the Western Hemisphere. It offers breathtaking views of the entire city, chic fire pits, signature cocktails and a wide selection of whiskey, as well as culinary experiences to rival the view. There is nothing more wonderful than sipping a classic cocktail on one of the luxurious lounge seats along the extended bar whilst enjoying one of the best views Los Angeles has to offer.
Address: 900 Wilshire Boulevard, Los Angeles 90017, USA
Located on India’s western coast, Mumbai is the country’s financial capital and home to a diverse range of communities and cultures. Each community in Mumbai has special dishes that centre food from the sea. Wherever you have a chance to try them, these are the seafood dishes that you should not miss in Mumbai.
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BOMBIL FRY
As one of the traditional seafood dishes in India, bombil is prepared in a variety of different ways and savoured across communities in Mumbai and it is most popular form is the bombil fry. The fish, separated from its central bone and drained of excess water gets mixed with salt, haldi (turmeric powder), chilli powder, and other herbs, roots and spices. After being marinated, the fish gets a coating of semolina or rice flour and is shallow-fried. The final fish has a crispy coating with a soft interior and it can be served with a squeeze of lime.
BANGDA UDDAMETHI
Bangda uddamethi is a delicious mackerel curry from Goan cuisine. Goa is a tiny coastal state to the south of Maharashtra, so the love for seafood permeates Goan cuisine. Also known as bangda udid, this seafood dish is made with mackerel that is cooked with split black lentils and fenugreek seeds. The main elements of other Goan curries also include freshly grated coconut, red chillies and black peppers along with tamarind for a dose of acidity. This fish curry tastes best with steamed Goan rice. If you travel to Mumbai, make sure to try this dish to get a true taste of local cuisine.
KEDGEREE
No food tour to Mumbai would be complete without trying a plate of kedgeree. This seafood dish is a popular Anglo-Indian dish made with smoked fish and boiled eggs. This dish is a version of the vegetarian Indian dish khichdi (meaning mishmash). The Anglo-Indians added their own spin to khichdi with a focus on fish. In spite of having the essential flavours of khichdi, kedgeree is not vegetarian as it is made with smoked flaked fish, onions, spices, butter and a topping of raisins.
TISRYA SUKKA
This beloved clam dish is common to many coastal communities in Mumbai. Goans, Malvani, Mangalorean and Konkanis are amongst the many groups who prepare tisrya sukka at home. This dish is sometimes spelled tisreo, tisrya are clams and sukka means dry, a reference to the absence of a gravy. Many people believe that cooking the clam in its shell can enhance its flavours in addition to coconut, ground spices and dried fruit. There are many restaurants across Mumbai serving various versions of the dish.
FISH CHINCHONI
Considered one of the oldest in Mumbai, the East Indian community intrigues many foodies with its unique cuisine, including seafood dishes. One of the classic dishes in East Indian cuisine is a curry called fish chinchoni. It is commonly made with bombil. In this dish, chinch refers to tamarind, which gives a distinct tartness. Red chillies play an important role in the curry – they are soaked and then ground into a paste with pepper, garlic and coconut. Some cooks also add raw rice for thickness. This curry is often eaten with rice or bread.
PATRA NI MACCHI
Patra ni macchi (literally fish wrapped in leaf) is a Parsi fish delicacy – the Parsis are an ethno-religious group that traces their origins to the Zoroastrians who fled Persia (now Iran) after the fall of the Sasanian Empire. This seafood dish features a whole flat fish coated in a spicy and tangy green chutney made from coconut, green chillies, coriander and vinegar. The marinated fish is wrapped in banana leaves, tied with a string and steamed. Patra ni macchi is usually prepared on special occasions in Mumbai like weddings.
Those who have never been to Ha Long or perhaps visited a few years ago will have been drawn to its extraordinary but equally alluring beauty. This time, my visit to Ha Long Bay was new and different and allowed me to wholly appreciate the magnificence and effulgence of my country.
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As social distancing regulations in Vietnam come to an end, normal life has gradually returned albeit in a very new way. Travel enthusiasts are rejoicing and feeling exceedingly fortunate that Vietnam is renowned for its mesmerising natural landscapes. Domestic travel has become the best choice for those who are passionate about exploring after the strict lockdown. It is a fantastic idea to stick to travelling somewhere or taking a day trip to a local attraction. More than a trip, visiting another part of your country means you are contributing to the economy of a different community while international borders are temporarily restricted.
THE LAND OF MYSTERIES
When it comes to Vietnamese destinations, Ha Long Bay is always high up on any bucket list as it has long been one of the most sought-after sites for visitors to Vietnam. Inscribed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1994, Ha Long Bay is obviously the pride of both Vietnamese and international travellers. So, what makes Ha Long Bay an inspiring and unforgettable attraction as travel resumes?
Ha Long Bay is a small bay on the western coast of the Gulf of Tonkin, covering the territorial waters of Ha Long City, Cam Pha City and a part of Van Don Island District in Quang Ninh Province. True to its name, Ha Long Bay has a close bond with an ancient mystical legend. “Long” meaning dragon and “Ha” meaning “low”, thus Ha Long means “Dragon descending into the sea”.
Legend has it that as Vietnam started to develop into a country, Ngoc Hoang, the highest God in Heaven, sent a family of celestial dragons to protect the Vietnamese from foreign invaders. The dragons then gathered jewellery and pearls to form the islands and mountains that stopped enemy fleets. Additionally, there are many legendary sights like Ha Long (the place where mother dragon landed), Bai Tu Long is the place baby dragon landed and the location where dragons wriggled their tails violently was named Bach Long Vi.
A MASTERPIECE OF NATURE
Ha Long Bay has people falling head over heels in love with its unique geographic features. This ethereal bay conjures a one-of-a-kind picture embodying the perfect combination of water, stone and sky. Discover Ha Long Bay, a glimpse of its deep emerald waters will allow a sense of safety and relaxation to fill your mind. Towering limestone pinnacles and schist islands rising from gentle emerald waters offer an insight into how majestic and dramatic the bay appears. Covering an area of nearly 1.600km2, Ha Long Bay is home to approximately 2,000 different islands and islets that form an otherworldly spectacular seascape of the crystalline sky, fluffy white clouds and jungle-laden mountains.
Over the course of 500 million years, wind and seawaters have eroded Ha Long Bay’s islands into shapeless lumps of stone in an amazing variety of sizes. Dinh Huong, Trong Mai and Cho Da Islets are amongst the famous stone islands in Ha Long Bay. Dinh Huong Islet was selected to be printed on the VND note as a vivid symbol to signify its value for both Vietnam and its nationals. As one of the iconic and sacred images of Ha Long Bay, Dinh Huong Islet resembles an enormous incense burner standing out against magnificent nature. With such a spiritual meaning, this islet has become a holy symbol dedicated to national heroes who died to protect the country as well as expressing gratitude and respect to Vietnamese ancestors.
What’s more, Ha Long Bay is also famous for Trong Mai Islet, which represents the closeness and faithfulness between Vietnamese people. During my visit, I had the opportunity to take a closer look at Ha Long Bay’s famous islet from a boat. To me, Trong Mai Islet looked like a giant fish wriggling out of the water. In close proximity to Trong Mai Islet, I saw what I can only describe as a tremendous stone dog that momentarily staggered me. Every little island adds a sense of uniqueness and excellence to Ha Long Bay, making it a magical marvel of nature.
AN AMAZING VARIETY OF CAVES AND GROTTOES
Ha Long Bay bears a marvellous charisma as it is home to a vast array of attractive pinnacles and caves. Travelling through every cave offers visitors an interesting insight into its uniqueness and mysterious beauty. There is a whole host of magnificent caves closely associated with legendary stories, for instance, Thien Cung Cave, Tam Cung Cave, Dau Go Cave, Sung Sot Cave, Trinh Nu Cave, Trong Cave, Hanh Cave and Luon cave.
Located on Bo Hon Island in the heart of the World Heritage Site, Sung Sot is one of the most beautiful and largest caves in Ha Long. When French tourists first visited and discovered this natural structure in 1901, they were so amazed by its breathtaking beauty and huge expansion that they exclaimed “La Grotte des Surprises” which means a cave of surprising things. Sung Sot Cave intrigues many travellers and explorers with its impressive entrance. After walking through a small passageway, you will enter a completely different space.
Sung Sot Cave is home to an incredible variety of uniquely shaped chambers. The first one is akin to an expansive theatre as its ceiling is covered with glistering stalactites and stalagmites while the other looks like a royal garden with a crystal-clear lake, verdant greenery and wild birds. Visitors can both explore the cave and catch sight of ships offshore adorned with red sails representing a warm welcome to Ha Long Bay.
While Sung Sot Cave strongly attracts tourists thanks to its unique mountainous architecture, Luon Cave features an eye-catching bow-shaped arch. Luon Cave is also located on Bo Hon Island, 14km to the south of Bai Chay with an impressive length of nearly 60m, a width of 4m and a ceiling that ranges from 2.5m to 4m depending on the tide. The porch of Luon Cave is like a beautiful gate leading to a brackish lake surrounded by four mountains with a width of nearly 1km2.
Taking a boat trip to this scenic cave, I was seemingly lost in the vibrant natural life with luxuriant vegetation, shady ancient trees, mischievous monkeys jumping up and down around the cliffs and charming blooming orchids. With its low porch, visitors can only access it by small boat or kayak through Luon Cave to see its miraculous stalactites. As the water rises, you sometimes have to duck down to pass the gate, making it an adventurous travel experience.
Luon Cave is so beautiful and exotic, I always aim to take a picture in front of the cave’s entrance. I would not have been able to do everything that I wanted to do without Sea Captain Nguyen Hai Lam. With more than 18 years of particular experience in navigation at sea, he is not only very knowledgeable about natural conditions in the area such as weather and water level but also passionate about bringing joy, excitement and satisfaction to his guests.
With his careful preparation, he sent a supply boat to carry us from the cruise ship to the harbour area to explore Luon Cave by boat early in the morning. Thanks to his visionary management style, our group was the first lucky ones to arrive at the cave’s entrance and take the perfect pictures while the sun was gently shining in the morning. This was the first time I have seen such a dedicated and responsible sea captain, he took good care of us during our trip. With his professional attitude and attention to detail, Sea Captain Nguyen Hai Lam has left a lasting impression on me. The excellent experience we had is promising for the tourism industry in both the country and the locality.
It was a laid-back and relaxing voyage and I made the most of my time. I enjoyed watching the sunset, staying overnight on a luxury yacht and waking early for sunrise, all whilst revelling in the lavish services and well-appointed amenities. Thanks to all of this, my voyage to Ha Long Bay was utterly inspiring and fulfilled. Whether you have never been to this heavenly bay or visited a few years ago, Ha Long Bay is definitely the ideal destination for your lockdown escape, where you can both recharge your batteries and gain profound appreciation and love for beautiful Vietnam.
Royal Caribbean has announced that its new Wonder of the Seas ship is set to debut in March 2022, sailing from Shanghai toward Japan.
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The new Wonder of the Seas from Royal Caribbean is scheduled to make its debut in March 2022, sailing from Shanghai toward Japan. The ship will be able to accommodate nearly 7,000 guests and an additional 2,200 crew members with its almost 2,900 staterooms. Between March and November, the cruise ship will sail from Shanghai and several ports in Japan, including Tokyo, Mount Fuji, Kumamoto, Kagoshima, Ishigaki and Miyazaki. The ship will head to Hong Kong for the winter, journeying from there to destinations such as Chan May in Vietnam, Busan and Jeju in South Korea, Kochi and Okinawa in Japan and Taipei.
According to the Royal Caribbean, the ship is currently under construction in Saint-Nazaire, France and will be arranged into a collection of other seven neighbourhoods, including one that is meant to be what Central Park is to Manhattan, just at sea. This neighbourhood is lined with specialty restaurants and high-end shops. The open-air space features over 20,000 plants, plenty of seating and live music in the evening. The vessel is also slated to feature an 80-foot zip line, in addition to the world’s tallest slide at sea. An all-suite neighbourhood will offer a more exclusive experience with a private sundeck, lounge and restaurant. The ship’s itineraries range from four to nine nights and can be booked online.
Booking a cruise tour with Royal Caribbean, guests will be immersed in the local culture, language, customs and practises of the region while enjoying the ship’s signature service and amenities. Are you ready for next-level discoveries in Japan, Vietnam, South Korea and beyond onboard an all-new ship designed for adventure? Whether you choose to kick off your unforgettable escape in futuristic Shanghai or vibrant Hong Kong, you are in for an epic exploration in the Far East.
Instead of going on road trips, forest escapes, beach vacations or taking tours to travel around the world and indulging in city breaks to soak up the atmosphere on the streets, people are now looking for new ways to take care of themselves. Wellness tourism is not a new trend, but amidst the global impact of the coronavirus pandemic, a collection of deeper, more accessible wellness experiences are emerging.
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WHAT IS WELLNESS TOURISM?
Wellness tourism was a very popular trend before Covid-19, but that does not mean everyone understands the nature of this genre of tourism. Wellness tourism is a travel trend that is associated with the pursuit of promoting a healthy lifestyle, raising awareness in a holistic way and connecting with nature. Not only does a well-being retreat improve your holistic health, but it is also the opportunity for everyone to better understand and listen to their own bodies. Under the guidance of experts, through a combination of unique practices, healthy diets and an abundance of intensive wellness activities such as meditation, yoga, spa, hot springs and daily massage, travellers can take an immersive approach to reset their mental health, equilibrium and rediscover their core values that may have been forgotten.
The concept of wellness tourism dates back thousands of years, to a time when Greek pilgrims travelled to the Saronic Gulf called Epidauria, a sanctuary of the healing god Asklepios from the vast Mediterranean. Since then, Epidauria has been known as the world’s first wellness destination. At that time, people used hot springs as a type of medical and wellness practice, which helped patients to unwind and relax their bodies. This was also considered the first well-being practice. After a wellness vacation, you will find yourself distanced from any regular anxiety or stress and welcome a new, positive vitality for your mental and physical health to bounce back into the hectic routine of daily life.
MANY SWITCHED TO A GREENER LIFESTYLE DURING COVID-19
Before 2020, travelling was all about exploration, adventure and the desire to conquer new experiences. However, Covid-19 has changed the world in the blink of an eye. When normality resumes, we are well in need of a peaceful trip in a safe environment. Thus, wellness tourism can satisfy people’s thirst for adventure. It is said that during this period of social distancing, there has been a surge in demand for a wellness-centred lifestyle. Wellness retreats and travel not only help travellers to satisfy their wanderlust whilst they are dreaming of those ultimate bucket-list trips, but it also reshapes the way we live during the lockdown as it allows us to focus our energies differently and learn how to enjoy nature.
Previously, there was a common misconception that wellness tourism was only suitable for the elderly or those in need of treatment. However, wellness tourism attracts a wealth of young people who face a lot of pressures from their work. There are many different levels of a wellness retreat, which vary from premier to budget, making it accessible for a wide market of travellers. According to the Global Wellness Institute GWI, there are two types of wellness travellers: those whose trip or destination choice is primarily motivated by wellness and those who seek to maintain wellness whilst travelling whether for business or leisure.
A JOURNEY WITH MIRACULOUS BENEFITS
The art of wellness and the tourism industry connected to that is not necessarily something that comes naturally. Wellness and self-care are the trends of a new era that will encourage sustainable values for the future of the tourism industry. Experience a sense of newness that is extremely beneficial to your health through intensive relaxation therapies, sensible food supplements and healthy entertainment. Throughout the history of human evolution, humans have always had a strong bond with nature, but the hustle and bustle of the industrial pace of urban life have left us isolated from nature. Wellness tourism will allow people to return to the wilderness, truly immerse themselves in its pristine beauty, enjoy the peaceful ambiance and observe the surrounding environment in a very positive way. Through the art of wellness, you can spread happiness and provide great inspiration to many people.
Aside from offering a vast variety of physical and spiritual healing therapies, wellness tourism is also an opportunity for travellers to build and maintain a positive environmentally-friendly lifestyle. Each wellness trip not only gives us the opportunity to really engage with our surroundings and discover unique local cultures, but also show our respect for nature, protect plants and animals and take responsibility for local communities. In addition, the increased demand for wellness tourism has created a potential market that will support tour operators and local communities who can diversify services in order to offer visitors many different types of unique experiences and it will provide economic assistance to improve the living conditions for local people.
HOW TO CHOOSE A WELLNESS DESTINATION
Most travellers who opt for this type of tourism aim for one single purpose: switching to a healthy lifestyle. Therefore, a quiet location, calm and intimate spaces are always the main requirements. Currently, there are many luxury resorts and five-star hotels that make a huge effort to create a wellness-focused experience for their guests. With a beautiful setting in nature, a lot of accommodation providers have developed an integrated wellness system, built large and cutting-edge spa centres for guests to experience the best rejuvenating treatments.
In addition to dedicated healing experiences and curative therapies, a pristine and fresh natural environment is important. Especially, during the pandemic, plenty of us are looking for breaks in places devoid of crowds to freely explore nature, enjoy ultimate seclusion and a true escape from the daily grind. Many people also choose a wellness retreat to help themselves evaluate their precious values that are being overwhelmed by the hectic rhythm of the day-to-day. This experience can help guests gradually reduce their negative impact on the environment, encourage the use of public transport, support indigenous ecosystems, provide local food and inspire the preservation of distinct cultural traditions.
A GREAT SENSE OF TIMELESSNESS AND ENJOYMENT
After the emergence of the Covid-19 pandemic, wellness activities have become even more enriching and compelling. In the past, we were just looking for relaxation through spa treatments, meditation, yoga classes or hot springs, we now create new restorative experiences in the midst of nature. We can immerse ourselves in an incredible variety of exhilarating activities, for instance, forest bathing, trekking, forest biking, visiting local spiritual destinations, eating healthy food, growing our own fruit and vegetables and taking care of animals. With such an amazing incentive, your wellness vacation will be a truly memorable experience, leaving your soul and mind peacefully refreshed.
The world is in a perpetual state of change. In spite of isolation and confinement due to the current pandemic, our passion for venturing out and hope for a brighter future is stronger than ever. It is clear that wellness tourism will flourish and diversify more and more so that as soon as the world returns to a state of normality, we will go in search of a peaceful location to kick back and reward ourselves through meaningful, inspiring lessons about nature, people and a healthy way of life.
