Wanderlust Tips Travel Magazine | Scenic lines through the beautiful parts of Vietnam

Scenic train lines through the beautiful parts of Vietnam

Nature has bestowed many gifts upon Vietnam, making it the ideal destination for tourists. The country is home to stunning landscapes, majestic mountains, crystal-clear waters and peaceful villages. Hop on a train and get the most out of your trip through the magnificently unspoilt countryside around Vietnam.

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HAI VAN PASS: SPECTACULAR VIEWS THROUGH PANORAMIC WINDOWS

Wanderlust Tips Travel Magazine | Scenic train lines through the beautiful parts of Vietnam

There is a range of picturesque train lines passing through Vietnam, but the Hai Van Pass – known for being one of the most glorious views in the world – has always made a good impression on passengers. Sit inside the carriage, cast your eyes out of the window and enjoy the views over the tree-capped mountains and iridescent turquoise waters that stretch endlessly towards the horizon. Running from Hue to Da Nang and passing by the sparkling waves, the train offers some of the most fantastic scenery.

The Hai Van Pass is a 21-kilometre coastal strip which snakes through the mountainside, 18 bridges and 6 tunnels with a maximum width of 200m. The pass is tucked between a rugged cliff and a deep abyss, making it a hair-raising and challenging route for any type of vehicle. However, because of this, it has become an adventure attraction for travel enthusiasts. If you travel through the Hai Van Pass by train at least once in your lifetime, the image of the breathtaking landscapes will be imprinted in your mind forever.

Wanderlust Tips Travel Magazine | Scenic train lines through the beautiful parts of Vietnam

Dubbed as the precious gem in the central provinces in Vietnam, the lush green forests and sparkling beaches will gradually appear before your eyes. Whenever the train snakes along the mountainside, an abundance of joy and happiness fills your heart. Your train journey through the Hai Van Pass to get a glimpse of Vietnam’s glorious countryside will be an unforgettable and fun-filled experience.

  • Ticket prices: VND70,000 – VND210,000/turn from Hue to Da Nang (Vietnam)
  • Duration: 2 – 3 hours

HANOI – QUANG BINH: MARVEL AT POPULAR TOURIST DESTINATIONS

Wanderlust Tips Travel Magazine | Scenic train lines through the beautiful parts of Vietnam

Where can you see the dense forests, vast azure waters and magnificent caves in Vietnam? The answer is in Quang Binh. The peaceful land has people falling head over heels in love due to its mystifying beauty. Departing from Hanoi – the thousand-year-old capital of Vietnam and crossing the serene villages and cities, Quang Binh Province gradually appears in front of your eyes, making you feel extraordinarily peaceful. As you first arrive in Quang Binh, you will certainly appreciate its historical values.

“From the blue sea to the green mountains and forests, you will see the splendid scenery during four seasons, the locals are playing Le Thuy Chantey on Kien Giang River.” These melodious lyrics express special love for Quang Binh. Despite experiencing many difficulties and challenges over the years, it has only flourished and become more beautiful. Aside from the natural tourist spots and famous historical sites en route, for instance, Paradise Cave, Phong Nha – Ke Bang National Park, Nhat Le Beach and Dong Hoi City, the train journey to Quang Binh will definitely bring endless joy to your heart.

Wanderlust Tips Travel Magazine | Scenic lines through the beautiful parts of Vietnam

Once you have reached your destination, you can participate in a wide range of exhilarating activities at the Chay River – Dark Cave, slide on Quang Phu Sand Dunes and soak in the refreshing water at the Bang Mineral Hot Springs. After these interesting experiences, hop on a train to return to the capital. In addition to any souvenirs that you may pick up or local delicacies that you try, you will definitely have a great time and leave with valuable stories about the local history in this beautiful area of Central Vietnam.

  • Ticket prices: VND300,000 – VND900,000 VND/turn
  • Duration: ~ 10 hours

HANOI – SA PA: CATCH A TRAIN TO THE MOUNTAINS

Wanderlust Tips Travel Magazine | Scenic lines through the beautiful parts of Vietnam

At nightfall, the Hanoi Railway Station teems with many people toing and froing, socialising together and waiting for the train to Sa Pa – the most attractive tourist destination in Northern Vietnam. As people begin to board the train, happiness and excitement may get the better of them. Many passengers may not be too enthused by the journey as the train to Sa Pa departs at night and they cannot appreciate the beauty of the natural scenery.

Wanderlust Tips Travel Magazine | Scenic lines through the beautiful parts of Vietnam

However, travelling by train at nighttime is also an amazing experience. At night, the sky is illuminated by dazzling lights, making the scenery a bit more fanciful. There is nothing better than enjoying a memorable night with your friends on a train as you prepare to reach nostalgic and peaceful Sa Pa.

  • Ticket prices: VND195,000 – VND450,000/turn
  • Duration: 8 – 11 hours

HCMC – NHA TRANG TRAIN ROUTE: BREATHTAKING OCEAN VIEWS

Wanderlust Tips Travel Magazine | Scenic lines through the beautiful parts of Vietnam

When summer comes, many people want to take a dip in the cool seawater and treat themselves to a break on a white sandy beach. Nha Trang – the busiest coastal city in Vietnam, has always been the top destination to temporarily get away from the bustle and intense heat of the urban areas. Departing from the magnificent metropolis of Saigon, the train to Nha Trang will definitely bring endless joy and excitement to your mind.

It would be a shame to pass through an abundance of magnificent scenery en route quickly, so this train takes nearly ten hours to travel through the exquisite natural landscapes in Binh Duong, Ninh Thuan – the land of sunshine and wind and Nha Trang that captivates you with its crystal-clear azure waters and smooth sandy shores. Additionally, the coastal city has attracted a large number of domestic and foreign visitors due to many interesting experiences on offer. Walk by the vast sea, scuba-dive deep into the ocean to explore the mysterious underwater world or simply rest in a luxurious resort and enjoy the peaceful coastal atmosphere.

Wanderlust Tips Travel Magazine | Scenic lines through the beautiful parts of Vietnam

The five-star train from Ho Chi Minh City to Nha Trang is a good chance to treat yourself to a little luxury with its state-of-the-art facilities, cleanliness and dedicated service on every train carriage. Gliding through the beautiful scenery of Vietnam, the train will allow you to capture each wonderful moment, enjoy nature and chat with new friends. Plane or car may be a more efficient means of transportation, but travelling by train has always been an incredible experience as you have plenty of time to appreciate the natural surroundings in Vietnam.

  • Ticket prices: VND240,000 – VND720,000/turn
  • Duration: 7 hours and 20 minutes

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Wanderlust Tips Magazine | Get a delightful slice at Yonder Escalante

Get a delightful slice at Yonder Escalante in Utah

If you are looking for something unique as you pass through Utah, then make sure to treat yourself to Yonder Escalante which provides a scenic place to relax and unwind whilst enjoying some of America’s great western landscapes.

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Situated within the magnificent Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument and near Bryce Canyon National Park, Yonder Escalante is the embodiment of the best of The American Experience in a place that is as familiar as it is unique. Here, guests can be afforded an immersive connection to nature and the opportunity to partake in new experiences to explore the outdoors while staying true to a well-appointed lifestyle.

Wanderlust Tips Magazine | Get a delightful slice at Yonder Escalante in Utah

Built on the grounds of a former drive-in movie theatre in Utah, Yonder Escalante is complete with 32 different accommodations, including 22 custom-designed A-frame cabins made out of exposed birch plywood and glass walls to look out to the desert views and take in the starry skies at night, 10 vintage renovated airstreams and 67 RV sites, all of which include private fire pits and access to the property’s common areas such as lounge pool and hot tub and comfortable amenities like shower and laundry facilities.

Classic cars are also parked for guests to attend a “drive-in” movie on certain nights. Aside from providing guests the luxury of experiencing the American West, Yonder Escalante, just a three-minute drive from the town of Escalante, is home to a variety of cafes, diners and shops full of artisan goods for guests to take home.

Wanderlust Tips Magazine | Get a delightful slice at Yonder Escalante in Utah

What’s more, Yonder Escalante includes the indoor-outdoor clubhouse offering flexible spaces to read a book, meet new friends or enjoy breakfast while viewing the extraordinary landscape beyond. Equipped with indoor fire pits, a vintage record player, board games and a curated library, the clubhouse is the heart of the property and available for all to enjoy.

Wanderlust Tips Magazine | Get a delightful slice at Yonder Escalante in Utah

Opened its inaugural property in Utah, Yonder is a collection of modern hybrid resort concepts designed to provide travellers with a new way to experience America’s most beautiful national parks. It comes complete with 20 acres to roam, several accommodation types to choose from and access to some of the most stunning outdoor destinations of the American West.

Wanderlust Tips Magazine | Get a delightful slice at Yonder Escalante
YONDER ESCALANTE
Location: 2020 West, UT-12, Escalante, Utah 84726, USA
Tel: 435-826-4440
Website: https://www.stayyonder.com

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Wanderlust Tips Magazine | Travel between Colorado and Utah

Travel between Colorado and Utah in a luxury train

Rocky Mountaineer is introducing a new route from Colorado to Utah in the Southwest United States in 2021 to bring its luxury train journeys to more travellers.

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Called Rockies to the Red Rocks, this new train route will be a two-day rail journey between Denver, Colorado and Moab, Utah, with an overnight stay in Glenwood Springs which is known for its hot springs in Colorado, America. It can be said that travelling from Colorado to Utah is going to be more adventurous than before as you can now travel in a luxury train that runs through magnificent mountains, desert cliffs, scenic canyons and rock formations. The route is operated by Rocky Mountaineer and will be in operation from 15th August to 18th November 2021, an expansion of its originally scheduled season due to demand.

Wanderlust Tips Magazine | Travel between Colorado and Utah in a luxury train

With the goal of expanding its routes to bring its train travel experience to showcase new destinations, Rocky Mountaineer is working with local tourism organisations, hotels and tour operators to curate custom vacation packages that feature tours, activities and stays in Denver and Moab, so guests can experience even more of the region. This route will be in addition to the three rail routes that run in Western Canada, between Vancouver and the Canadian Rockies towns of Banff, Lake Louise and Jasper. 

Wanderlust Tips Magazine | Travel between Colorado and Utah in a luxury train

The Rockies to the Red Rocks route offers unparalleled journeys in its spacious glass-domed train coaches thanks to the incredible scenery, delicious cuisine, attentive service and social atmosphere. The two-day rail journeys, including one-night hotel accommodation in Glenwood Springs, will start from $1,250 plus tax per person.

Founded in 1990, Rocky Mountaineer has offered luxury train journeys between Vancouver and the Canadian Rockies, showcasing the best scenery for over 30 years. Until now, it has welcomed more than 2.2 million visitors and become the largest privately owned luxury tourist train in the world. 

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Wanderlust Tips Magazine | The best waterfalls you should visit at least once in a lifetime

The best waterfalls in the USA you should visit at least once in a lifetime

From thundering cascades to fairytale trickles, it is no secret that the USA is home to an amazing variety of stunning waterfalls. Check out our list of the best waterfalls, all worth a stop on your next adventure.

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BURNEY FALLS IN REDDING, CALIFORNIA, USA

Wanderlust Tips Magazine | The best waterfalls in the USA you should visit at least once in a lifetime

Located in the McArthur-Burney Falls Memorial State Park near Burney in Shasta County, California, Burney Falls was so well-loved that even President Theodore Roosevelt Jr. referred to it as the “Eighth Wonder of the World”. Aside from its fairly impressive dimensions at 132 feet in height, this cascade in the USA boasts timeless scenes of deep sapphire blue. Moreover, it has a rather unique characteristic where most of its 100 million gallons of flow came out from the middle of the cliff. You can opt to traverse a quarter-mile path to the base or take the one-mile Burney Falls Loop Trail to ogle the waterfall from multiple vantage points.

RAINBOW FALLS IN WATKINS GLEN STATE PARK, NEW YORK

Wanderlust Tips Magazine | The best waterfalls in the USA you should visit at least once in a lifetime

If you are making your way to the Finger Lakes region in the USA, do not miss the chance to see Rainbow Falls that was once a part of the incomparable Yosemite National Park. This classically shaped block waterfall intrigues many explorers with the presence of basalt columns beneath the waterfall’s vertical drop. If you want to cool off, go down to the San Joaquin River right in front of the waterfall where the river would be calm enough for a soak or swim. Also, hikers can extend the hike by pursuing the much quieter Lower Falls or going upstream towards the Minaret Falls.

 PALOUSE FALLS IN WASHTUCNA, WASHINGTON, USA

Wanderlust Tips Magazine | The best waterfalls in the USA you should visit at least once in a lifetime

Located in Palouse Falls State Park in southeastern Washington in the USA, Palouse Falls is amongst the last active waterfalls on the Ice Age floods path. This 200-foot wonder was carved more than 13,000 years ago and named Washington’s state waterfall in 2014. Here, you will see clouds of mist billowing past its sheer rock walls. Many photographers have set up a camera and tripod to capture the falls in the changing light.

SHOSHONE FALLS IN TWIN FALLS, IDAHO

Wanderlust Tips Magazine | The best waterfalls in the USA you should visit at least once in a lifetime

Known as the Niagara Falls of the West, Shoshone Falls located at the edge of Twin Falls is 212 feet high and around 900 feet wide, making it one of the largest waterfalls in the USA. The falls offer a unique blend of recreational facilities, including playgrounds, hiking trails, picnic areas, a boat ramp, swimming and a scenic overlook. The flow of the water varies by season, spring is the best time to visit, but you should check the Shoshone Falls live feed before setting out.

 WAILUA FALLS IN KAUAI, HAWAII

Wanderlust Tips Magazine | The best waterfalls in the USA you should visit at least once in a lifetime

If you have ever fantasised about seeing a double-tiered waterfall in the USA, then get ready to turn your fantasy into reality at the gorgeous Wailua Falls that was featured in the opening scene of the long-running TV show Fantasy Island. Running at the southern terminus of the Wailua River, the double falls spill from an 80-foot cliff into a 30-foot pool and sometimes merge into one raging cascade after heavy rains. This waterfall can be seen from the parking lot, only 15 minutes north of Kauai’s Lihue Airport.

ST. LOUIS CANYON FALLS AT STARVED ROCK STATE PARK, ILLINOIS

Wanderlust Tips Magazine | The best waterfalls you should visit at least once in a lifetime

Nestled amidst rural cornfields, just two hours southwest of Chicago, Starved Rock State Park is catnip for waterfall chasers. The St. Louis Canyon falls is one of Starved Rock State Park’s big waterfalls and a favourite amongst visitors. The falls offer a great glimpse into the dramatic splendor of nature as well as a little bit of awe-inspiring adventure. It can be quite busy in high season, so make sure to plan before you travel.

DRY FALLS NEAR HIGHLANDS, NORTH CAROLINA, USA

Wanderlust Tips Magazine | The best waterfalls you should visit at least once in a lifetime

Located a few miles outside of Highlands, Dry Falls is a very famous waterfall in the USA. This 75-foot waterfall plunges from an overhanging rock outcrop, creating beautiful white flowing water tendrils that dive into a rocky riverbed below. There is also a short, paved trail that arcs down to the falls and dives behind the tumbling waterfall, exploring a small cave and catching some breezy mist from the falls. Note that slippery rocks can be extremely dangerous, so do not climb, stand on or jump from any waterfall.

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Wanderlust Tips Magazine | 5 legendary routes that take you back in time

5 legendary routes in Germany that take you back in time

Germany has a fascinating history that can be explored in countless places around the country. Whether you want to unfurl the pages of the Roman era or go way back to the Stone Age, these five travel routes will give you a profound insight into German history.

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GERMAN HALF-TIMBERED HOUSES ROUTE (3000KM)

Wanderlust Tips Magazine | 5 legendary routes in Germany that take you back in time

Founded in 1990, the German Half-Timbered Houses Route showcases the various styles of half-timbered architecture in some 100 quaint towns along almost 3,000km from Stade on the River Elbe to Meersburg by Lake Constance. Here, you can embark on a journey through 1,000 years of history, with every region boasting its own distinctive style of half-timbered architecture. On the journey along the route, you can also admire the Medieval witches’ towers, Germany’s northernmost vineyard and stunningly restored monuments.

ROMANESQUE ROUTE (1200KM)

Wanderlust Tips Magazine | 5 legendary routes in Germany that take you back in time

For history buffs, culture vultures and art lovers, the Romanesque Route has got to be the most exciting route in Germany. Known as part of the Transromanica European Cultural Route, this route spans 73 towns and 88 Medieval buildings which offer insights into the early days of German history and Romanesque art and architecture. What’s more, Medieval sites, stunning fortresses, palaces, cathedrals and monasteries are amongst the sights to be marvelled at.

GERMAN LIMES ROUTE (550KM)

Wanderlust Tips Magazine | 5 legendary routes in Germany that take you back in time

With 900 sentry posts and 120 fort sites, the outer Upper Germanic-Rhaetian Limes is one of Central Europe‘s most impressive archaeological monuments. The term ‘Limes’ means ‘frontier’ in Latin, the Roman Empire’s common language. Covering around 550km from Rheinbrohl on the Rhine to Regensburg on the Danube, the German Limes Route offers fascinating insights into the Ancient Roman sites of Germany. The route meanders through beautiful countryside, leading to pretty towns, idyllic villages, cultural and historical points of interest, ramparts and living quarters.

ROUTE OF MEGALITHIC CULTURE (330KM)

Wanderlust Tips Magazine | 5 legendary routes in Germany that take you back in time

Launched in 2006, the Route of Megalithic Culture aims to promote, preserve and provide visitors a deep dive into Megalithic culture across Germany. The route runs around 330km through the Osnabrücker Land and Weser-Ems regions, connects some 33 remarkable megalithic cultural sites and more than 70 megalithic tombs from the Neolithic period. Just a stone’s throw away from picturesque villages and quaint little towns, these megalithic tombs bring to life 5,000 years of local history amidst the idyllic wooded moors and heathland.

SAAR-PALATINATE BAROQUE ROUTE (100KM)

Wanderlust Tips Magazine | 5 legendary routes that take you back in time

Paying testimony to the Baroque era, this exciting route spanning some 100km takes in the former royal seats of Saarbrücken, the former Baroque residence of Blieskastel, ducal Zweibrücken and Ottweiler, a small Baroque town. The Saar-Palatinate Baroque Route takes visitors on a journey through the wonders of Baroque architecture and gardens, secluded places and culinary delights that simply cannot be forgotten.

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Wanderlust Tips Magazine | How to enjoy safe trip with kids

How to enjoy safe hiking with kids

As summer is around the corner, it is the perfect time for outdoor adventure to hit the trails and get out in nature. Hiking with young children can be a challenge, but these essential tips will help you achieve safe and comfortable hiking this summer.

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CHOOSE A FAMILY-FRIENDLY TRAIL

Wanderlust Tips Magazine | How to enjoy safe hiking with kids

When looking at your hiking options, select a trail that is suitable for your child’s age, skill level and stamina. You can search for kid-friendly trails at AllTrails, a database of over 50,000 trails across the US and make sure to save some energy for the return trip. Look for a trail with cool features that will keep your children interested such as a creek to dip their toes in, rocks to scramble on, a mini-summit to see the land from a bird’s-eye view.

TAKE PLENTY OF WATER AND SNACKS

Wanderlust Tips Magazine | How to enjoy safe hiking with kids

Hiking can make you hot, tired, thirsty and hungry. Be sure to start your hike well hydrated and take regular water breaks as you go. Healthy portable snacks such as apples, granola bars and homemade chocolate protein balls are also good things to have on hand. Additionally, adults should have a few first-aid items on hand for possible toddler tumbles and scrapes. Kids can also collect all the “treasures” they find and store them in their bags, so make sure to include a pencil or crayon.

DRESS APPROPRIATELY FOR YOUR HIKE

Wanderlust Tips Magazine | How to enjoy safe hiking with kids

Kids love having their own gear, so get your children a small pack to carry some lightweight items. Weather can change in the blink of an eye, so dress the kids in layers and pack a warm jacket in your backpack in case the temperature drops. Hiking requires shoes with sturdy support for all-terrain fun. Before any hike, make sure the kids break their shoes in at home, so their little feet do not get blisters out on the trail. Sunglasses and hats are also essential for hiking. Be sure to bring plenty of sunscreen before your hike.

WATCH OUT FOR WATER

Wanderlust Tips Magazine | How to enjoy safe hiking with kids

Teach your children the danger of playing in or drinking water from rivers, streams and ponds before hiking. If you have water purifying supplies, teach them how to properly clean water before drinking it. Mountain streams and lakes can be swift-moving and contain lots of unseen hazards, so never leave your children alone around any body of water. You should talk to your kids about what to do if they get separated from you on the trail. Keep a safety whistle in their backpacks and make sure they know to blow it, stay in one place and wait for help to arrive.

ENJOY THE MOMENT

Wanderlust Tips Magazine | How to enjoy safe trip with kids

You should give your kids the role of the encourager by letting them pick the songs you will sing along the way or control the camera. It will be fun looking back at those images and seeing the hike from their perspective. Importantly, teach children to leave no trace. Bring an empty garbage bag with you and make a game out of cleaning up the trail while you enjoy the outdoors. Furthermore, giving your kids plenty of space, time and independence to explore out on the trail will also help them fall in love with hiking and nature.

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Wanderlust Tips Magazine | The ultimate guide to delectable Indian dishes

The ultimate guide to delectable Indian desserts

In India, a dessert is considered one of the indispensable things on any occasion, from birth to death and even religious feasts and festivals. If you have a sweet tooth, this country is the place to satisfy your cravings and enjoy the most delectable Indian dessert styles.

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PUA AND MALPUA

Wanderlust Tips Magazine | The ultimate guide to delectable Indian dessert

Known as a popular Indian dessert during the Holi festival in the states of Bihar and Uttar Pradesh, pua is basically deep-fried sweet pancakes that are soft on the inside, crispy on the outside and made with maida (refined white flour). There is a variety of recipes such as dry, ras pua, malpua or chhena pua. Malpua is an indulgent Indian dessert with lots of dry fruits and eggs in the batter. Malpua is also a popular street food in the eastern state of Odisha.

HALWA

Wanderlust Tips Magazine | The ultimate guide to delectable Indian dessert

Halwa, commonly called halva, is a sweetened flour, ghee and jaggery dessert that is very popular all over India. Halwa can feature fig, almonds, cashew, gourd, chickpea flour, dried fruits and more. This classic Indian dessert is also a divine offering in temples and places of worship for Sikhs. During the Navratri festival, Sooji ka halwa (made with semolina) is a common offering. Additionally, halwa is even served as a special treat for hard-working government workers during the halwa ceremony.

LADDU

Wanderlust Tips Magazine | The ultimate guide to delectable Indian dessert

These sweet balls made of flour, fat and sugar are a must-try when you are visiting India. It can be made of a stunning variety of ingredients, which can change depending on the season or event. Like many of the other traditional Indian desserts, laddus are also common offerings in temples such as besan (ghee and cardamom), motichoor (smaller laddu) and nariyal laddu (coconut). The name of this traditional Indian dessert is related to the joy of all kinds: To any good news, people will say “laddu baato”.

KULFI

Wanderlust Tips Magazine | The ultimate guide to delectable Indian dessert

Kulfi is India’s version of rich and creamy ice cream that is made by heating milk over a low flame until it thickens and then is left to cool. Traditionally, this reduced milk is typically mixed with almonds, pistachios, sugar and cardamom or saffron for flavouring. It is then poured in moulds and placed inside an earthen pot filled with the ice and salt mixture. It can be served dipped in sweetened milk or cut in circular discs. The available flavours include mango, chocolate, custard apple and many others.

BEBINCA

Wanderlust Tips Magazine | The ultimate guide to delectable Indian dessert

Created during the 17th and 18th centuries, bebinca, also known as bibik, is one of the most popular Goan-Portuguese desserts in India. It is a multi-layer cake that is made with lots of ghee, flour, eggs, sugar and coconut milk. The ingredients are simple, but it takes huge patience to make. A minimum of seven layers is baked one at a time before adding the next layer. This gooey Indian dessert is widely eaten during Christmas, Easter festivals and on any celebratory occasion.

RASGULLA

Wanderlust Tips Magazine | The ultimate guide to delectable dishes

Another dessert for cheese lovers, rasgulla. Known as a much-loved dessert in eastern India, rasgulla is a round ball of cottage cheese and semolina that is dunked in a light sugar syrup. Bengal’s rasgulla is soft, spongy and chewy while the Odisha one is soft and not chewy. Rasgulla made of palm jaggery and cottage cheese is a winter speciality of Bengal.

PHIRNI

Wanderlust Tips Magazine | The ultimate guide to delectable dishes

Phirni, a popular north Indian dessert, is a type of traditional rice milk puddings in India. It is made with ground rice, simmered in whole milk and flavoured with cardamom, rose water and saffron, giving it a smoother texture and delicate fragrance. This classic Indian sweet melts in your mouth when served chilled. Phirni was once a regal dish relished by the Mughals and its similar milk-based dishes are popular in Central Asia.

PITHA

Wanderlust Tips Magazine | The ultimate guide to delectable dishes

Pithas are steamed rice flour dumplings filled with a sweet stuffing, for instance, jaggery, coconut, sesame, poppy seeds and dried whole milk. In the northeastern state of Assam during the harvest festival Bhogali Bihu, pitha is a pancake of sticky rice stuff with sesame and jaggery. During the popular Ganesh Chaturthi festival in the western state of Maharashtra, steamed pitha known as modak is stuffed with jaggery and freshly grated coconut and offered to Lord Ganesha.

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Wanderlust Tips Magazine | 7 iconic European desserts that are worth a try on your travels

7 iconic European pies that are worth a try on your travels

From sweet to savoury flavours, every European country has its own unique pie recipes that come in all shapes and sizes. If you are planning a trip to Europe, make sure to try these popular pies.

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MOHNZELTEN, AUSTRIA

Wanderlust Tips Magazine | 7 iconic European pie styles that are worth a try on your travels

Mohnzelten is the name of a sweet Austrian pastry that is a speciality of the Waldviertel region and popular in shops and markets around Austria. The dough is made from a combination of boiled potatoes, flour, butter, eggs, cream, salt and baking powder, while the filling consists of butter, poppy seeds, honey, sugar, cinnamon, rum and grated lemon zest. These flat balls are often taken on picnics and road trips as nutritious and filling snacks. Other pie versions are filled with strawberries or nuts.

PASTEL DE NATA, PORTUGAL

Wanderlust Tips Magazine | 7 iconic European pie styles that are worth a try on your travels

Invented by monks at Jerónimos Monastery in Belém, which is now a neighbourhood of Lisbon, pastel de nata translates to “pastry of cream”. The flaky dough is filled with a creamy egg custard while the top is lightly caramelised. Today, you can find these custard-filled treats in every major city around the world. If you are visiting Portugal, make sure that you hop on a roadside café and try a pastel de nata.

APPELTAART, NETHERLANDS

Wanderlust Tips Magazine | 7 iconic European pie styles that are worth a try on your travels

This European delight is widely popular in the Netherlands. Appeltaart is commonly served as a mid-morning or afternoon treat and is great for any occasion or gathering. With its sky-high crumbly crust, thick apple filling and a large dollop of whipped cream, it is no wonder that it is the most favourite dessert in the Netherlands. The Dutch version stands much higher than American apple pie and it is filled with large chunks of tart apples, cinnamon, lemon, sugar, rum and brandy.

SPANAKOPITA, GREECE

Wanderlust Tips Magazine | 7 iconic European pie styles that are worth a try on your travels

A scrumptious and heart-warming Greek treat, spanakopita means “spinach pie” which is commonly made of perfectly crispy layers of phyllo dough and a comforting filling of spinach and feta cheese. Spanakopita is frequently used in Balkan, Mediterranean and Middle Eastern cuisines. It is popular year-round but is a beloved food during the week before Lent when diets are traditionally restricted to eggs, butter and milk.

GALICIAN EMPANADA, SPAIN

Wanderlust Tips Magazine | 7 iconic European pie styles that are worth a try on your travels

A Spanish pie dish that provides a sight sure to make your mouth water. Galician empanadas are made with a mixture of cooked tuna, tomato sauce, peppers, onion and spices that are sandwiched between a doughy top and bottom crust. It is typically cooked in a rectangular dish and served in cut squares. Aside from the original version of Galician empanadas, you can also get minced pork or vegetable varieties.

TORTA PASQUALINA, ITALY

Wanderlust Tips Magazine | 7 iconic European desserts that are worth a try on your travels

Originally from the northwest region of Liguria, torta pasqualina is the traditional vegetarian Italian Easter pie. The pie is often made with puff pastry and spring green such as artichokes, chard or spinach. The most important aspect of torta pasqualina is the eggs baked inside. These days, the pie dish is popular around Italy and is served year-round, not just at Easter.

QUICHE LORRAINE, FRANCE

Wanderlust Tips Magazine | 7 iconic European desserts that are worth a try on your travels

Originated from the Lorraine region of France, this speciality is a baked dish that is based on a custard made from eggs and milk or cream in a pastry crust. In addition to bacon, quiche Lorraine can also be filled with fragrant gruyère cheese and onions. Quiche is predominantly a breakfast dish, but it can be eaten for lunch or dinner. If you are a pie lover, make sure to try this delicious dish when you are visiting France.

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Wanderlust Tips Magazine | Best restaurants to try in Chinatown

Best restaurants to try in New York City’s Chinatown

New York City’s Chinatown is a popular tourist destination with affordable, delicious restaurants. Wanderlust Tips Magazine gives you a list of outstanding places for Chinese food in New York City.

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456 RESTAURANT

Wanderlust Tips Magazine | Best restaurants to try in Chinatown, New York City

If you are looking for the city’s finest soup dumplings, 456 Restaurant is a great choice for this Shanghai staple. Known as dumpling heaven, the restaurant offers a wide selection of delicious options such as steamed juicy pork buns, xiao long bao, fried tiny buns, chicken and corn soup and sautéed eels with chives.

Where: 69 Mott Street, Chinatown, New York 10013, USA
Opening hours: Sunday – Thursday: 11am – 10pm / Friday – Saturday: 11am – 11pm

WO HOP

Wanderlust Tips Magazine | Best restaurants to try in Chinatown, New York City

Whether you live in the city or are visiting, you need to stop by and satisfy your hunger with authentic Cantonese dishes at Wo Hop. Well known for its friendly staff, excellent service and outstanding Chinese cuisine, the restaurant is also a great choice for late-night Chinatown dining. The walls are plastered with photos of customers, some famous, giving you something to look at while you wait for your food.

Where: 15 Mott Street, New York 10013, USA
Opening hours: Daily 11am – 9pm

SHU HAN JU

Wanderlust Tips Magazine | Best restaurants to try in Chinatown, New York City

Conveniently located on 6th Avenue near the Meatpacking District and the West Village in New York City, Shu Han Ju offers diners a clean and cheerful spot amongst the chaos of Chinatown. Here, you can try all the classics with fantastically diverse flavours, from spring rolls to fried pork dumplings, General Tso’s chicken and more.

Where: 465 6th Avenue, Manhattan, New York 10011, USA
Opening hours: Daily 11.30am – 8.30pm

GREAT N.Y. NOODLETOWN

Wanderlust Tips Magazine | Best restaurants to try in Chinatown, New York City

Using only the highest quality ingredients, Great N.Y. Noodletown brings you the tastes, textures and fragrances of authentic Chinese food. Salt-baked shrimp and roasted pork are among the delicious offerings at this spartan Chinatown standby. The restaurant is open until 4am, so it is a very great choice for late-night dining in New York City.

Where: 28 Bowery, New York 10013-5100, USA
Opening hours: Daily 9am – 4am

PING’S

Wanderlust Tips Magazine | Best restaurants to try in Chinatown, New York City

Established in 1998 in New York City, Ping’s has offered guests an unforgettable experience of Hong Kong fare. In addition to its fresh-killed fish dishes, Ping’s is known for serving delicious dim sum. Conveniently located in the heart of Chinatown, this Cantonese seafood restaurant in Chinatown gives New Yorkers the chance to dine as they would in Hong Kong without ever having to leave town.

Where: 22 Mott Street, New York 10013-5033, USA
Opening hours: Monday – Friday: 10.30am – 7.30pm / Saturday – Sunday: 10am – 8pm

REDFARM

Wanderlust Tips Magazine | Best restaurants to try in Chinatown

Set up like a stylized barn with wooden beams, hanging plants and red-and-white-checkered booths, the restaurant’s décor offers a fresh alternative to the traditional Chinese restaurant experience in New York City. You can choose from a selection of dim sum options such as crunchy vegetables and peanut dumplings or a Katz’s pastrami egg roll. RedFarm also delivers for those looking to stay in.

Where: 2170 Broadway, Manhattan New York 10024, USA
Opening hours: Monday – Friday: 5pm – 11.45pm / Saturday – Sunday: 11am – 2.30pm, 5pm – 11.45pm

DELUXE GREEN BO RESTAURANT

Wanderlust Tips Magazine | Best restaurants to try in Chinatown

Opened its doors in 1982 in New York City, Deluxe Green Bo Restaurant is known for its modern interpretation of classic dishes. Specialising in Shanghai cuisine, the restaurant is a great place to get yellow fish with dried seaweed and rice cake dishes, as well as soup dumplings. Whether you are in the mood for some Shanghai dim sum or wonton soup, its menu variety has plenty of delicious, authentic dishes to choose from.

Where: 66 Bayard Street, New York 10013, USA

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Wanderlust Tips Magazine | The legend of the King’s well

Regent Phu Quoc: The legend of the King’s well

The Regent brand changed the face of modern luxury when it was founded over 40 years ago. A pioneer in hotel design, it created bold firsts that captured imaginations and set new standards in luxury hospitality.

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Expanding its luxury footprint, IHG Hotels & Resorts announced the acquisition of a majority stake in Regent Hotels & Resorts in March 2018 and brought the much-loved brand into the top end of its portfolio. Since then, IHG has worked to combine its expertise in luxury with Regent’s deep heritage and revered legacy, reimagining the brand by evolving it to appeal to the modern luxury traveller. Its rebranding team gathered learnings from travellers and out-of-sector experts in the luxury fields to redefine the future of luxury. These insights helped shape the design directions that resonate most with our guests and the brand, including a refreshed logo and design approach that delivers a deeply curated experience.

Wanderlust Tips Magazine | Regent Phu Quoc: The legend of the King’s well

REGENT DESIGN PHILOSOPHY

The rebranded Regent is all about the beauty of contrasts where discreet opulence redefines luxury tropes with nuanced contemporary design cues. The new visual identity evokes a golden era of decadence when the Regent story was set in motion. The design narrative is conveyed through a new brand colour, Celadon, used in Ancient Chinese pottery and enhanced by bold, jewel tones. Iconic architectural and design features will add a touch of elegance and a sense of spectacular to each Regent hotel and are complemented by signature flourishes tailored to each distinctive location, including bespoke illustrations, each developed to tell a different hotel story.

BESPOKE ILLUSTRATIONS

The new Regent design philosophy comes to life with illustrations that depict each hotel’s take on the legendary icon of its location or the well-established legend of luck. Used on the inside of envelopes or paper bags, and even on the inner lining of umbrellas, they will become part of our guests’ journey to discover a destination.

Wanderlust Tips Magazine | Regent Phu Quoc: The legend of the King’s well

The illustration for Regent Phu Quoc is inspired by a king’s legend on this idyllic Vietnamese Island. The historical site of The King’s Well in An Thoi Town, is said to have sprung into life in the 17th century when the last King of Vietnam, plunged his sword into a stone. Starved of fresh water and food, Lord Nguyen called out to the heavens whilst being pursued by local rebels. Upon removing his sword from the stone, a stream of freshwater magically erupted, and many rice fishes surfaced upon the sea saving the King and his army. He continued to rest and recover using Phu Quoc Island as a shelter, and eventually defeated the rebels.

Today, a stele has been erected next to the well and the King’s armchair sits at the exact location in Phu Quoc to commemorate this extraordinary event. The spring of water accompanied by lucky rice fish became local symbols of luck alongside pearls and peppercorns which are found in and around the island. The illustration was created by Saddo, a renowned Romanian artist. Primary symbols used in its development include freshwater stream and sea, Lord Nguyen and his sword, lucky rice fish, supported by black pearl and Phu Quoc peppercorn plant. Application will be across a number of hotel collaterals including paperbag, minibar menu and umbrella.

Wanderlust Tips Magazine | The legend of the King’s well

Set on the waterfront, Regent Phu Quoc will open in Q2 2021 along the pristine white sands of Long Beach with views of the calm waters in Bai Truong’s Phu Quoc Marina, off Vietnam’s southwest coast. The resort has been designed as a sublime haven, infused with the soul of the island, with suites, villas and facilities, world-class dining experiences, private beach, spa, pool and gym facilities. Nourishment is key, with six dining experiences which celebrate a world of culinary tradition – including authentic Vietnamese and Chinese cuisine; Oku, a Franco-Japanese Salon de Boeuf; and apothecary-inspired cocktails crafted with fresh botanicals and an abundance of local Vietnamese herbs at Bar Jade.

Regent Hotels & Resort is currently present in six countries with seven hotels opened globally including the recently-opened Regent Shanghai Pudong, the award-winning Regent Beijing, Regent Berlin and Regent Porto Montenegro. Six properties due to open within the next three years including Phu Quoc, Hong Kong, Jakarta, Kuala Lumpur, Bali and Chengdu.

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