Category: Travel & Destinations

Introduction

For travelers who consider their culinary experiences a vital part of their journeys, there are certain cities and towns around the globe that emerge as veritable food lover’s paradises. From street-side stalls to Michelin-starred restaurants, these destinations offer a tantalizing array of flavors, aromas, and textures that cater to the most discerning palates. This article delves into the top 20 cities and towns that epitomize the ultimate culinary haven and highlights the must-try dishes that make them so irresistible. To top this gastronomic journey, one can employ a professional transportation service, such as An Extraordinar Limousine, that values time.

1. Bangkok, Thailand

Bangkok’s street food scene is legendary, with vibrant markets offering Pad Thai, Tom Yum Goong, and mango sticky rice. Don’t miss the savory delights of Som Tum (spicy green papaya salad) and Gaeng Keow Wan (Thai green curry).

2. Tokyo, Japan

Tokyo’s culinary scene ranges from delicate sushi and sashimi to rich ramen bowls. Try Tempura, Takoyaki (octopus balls), and indulge in the art of Kaiseki dining, showcasing meticulously prepared courses.

3. Paris, France

The French capital is a haven for food enthusiasts, offering buttery croissants, Coq au Vin, and decadent pastries. Savor the culinary elegance of Bouillabaisse and Crème Brûlée in quintessential Parisian cafés.

4. New York City, USA

New York City boasts an international food scene, from iconic New York-style pizza to bagels and street food carts. Sample a classic Reuben sandwich and splurge on a Broadway-inspired dinner.

5. Istanbul, Turkey

Istanbul’s spice-laden bazaars and street stalls serve up kebabs, Turkish Delight, and Baklava. Immerse yourself in the rich flavors of Iskender Kebab and the hearty comfort of Mercimek Çorbası (lentil soup).

6. Rome, Italy

Rome celebrates authentic Italian cuisine with dishes like Spaghetti Carbonara, Cacio e Pepe, and thin-crust Roman-style pizza. Discover the simplicity of Saltimbocca alla Romana and the allure of Tiramisu.

7. Penang, Malaysia

Penang’s diverse food scene boasts Char Kway Teow, Assam Laksa, and Roti Canai. Be sure to savor the fusion flavors of Nasi Kandar and indulge in local street treats like Ais Kacang.

8. Barcelona, Spain

Tapas culture thrives in Barcelona, featuring Patatas Bravas, Jamón ibérico, and fresh seafood. Experience the joy of Paella and complete your meal with a Crema Catalana.

9. Marrakech, Morocco

Marrakech’s medina brims with Moroccan delights, from Tagine and Couscous to aromatic Mint Tea. Don’t miss the savory wonders of B’stilla and savor a sweet ending with Moroccan pastries.

10. Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam

Pho, Banh Mi, and fresh Spring Rolls dominate Ho Chi Minh City’s culinary scene. Explore the rich flavor of Cá Kho Tộ (caramelized fish) and savor the comfort of Hu Tieu (noodle soup).

11. Lima, Peru

Lima’s fusion cuisine shines through dishes like Ceviche, Anticuchos, and Lomo Saltado. Embark on a culinary journey with Causa Rellena and savor the unique flavors of Ají de Gallina.

12. Mumbai, India

Mumbai’s bustling streets offer Chaat, Vada Pav, and flavorful curries. Dive into the aromatic richness of Biryani and awaken your taste buds with the spice-packed delight of Pani Puri.

13. Melbourne, Australia

Melbourne’s café culture presents Avocado Toast, Flat Whites, and inventive brunch dishes. Experience modern Australian cuisine with Barramundi and savor Tim Tams for dessert.

14. Osaka, Japan

Osaka’s street food scene includes Okonomiyaki, Takoyaki, and Kushikatsu. Indulge in the savory wonder of Kitsune Udon and explore the flavors of Teppanyaki dining.

15. Chiang Mai, Thailand

Chiang Mai boasts Khao Soi, Som Tum, and flavorsome Northern Thai curries. Discover the intricacies of Khanom Jeen Nam Ngiao and treat yourself to the richness of Khao Niew Mamuang (mango sticky rice).

16. Bordeaux, France

Bordeaux pairs its wine region status with gourmet experiences. Savor Duck Confit, Foie Gras, and explore local markets for regional cheeses and fresh Baguettes.

17. Kyoto, Japan

Kyoto offers Kaiseki dining, showcasing elegant multi-course meals. Savor the subtlety of Yudofu (tofu hot pot) and experience the beauty of traditional Japanese tea ceremonies.

18. Oaxaca, Mexico

Oaxaca’s cuisine features Mole, Tlayudas, and Tamales. Embrace the flavors of Tlayuda, a crispy tortilla topped with beans, cheese, and various toppings.

19. Lyon, France

Lyon, known as the gastronomic capital of France, boasts Coq au Vin, Quenelles, and Lyonnaise salads. Savor the rustic delight of Saucisson Lyonnais and indulge in decadent Lyonnais pastries.

20. Hanoi, Vietnam

Hanoi offers Pho, Bun Cha, and Egg Coffee. Delve into the flavors of Bun Bo Nam Bo and enjoy the cultural experience of sipping Ca Phe Trung (egg coffee).

Conclusion

These 20 cities and towns across the globe are revered as culinary meccas for their diverse flavors, rich traditions, and innovative creations. From iconic street food to Michelin-starred delicacies, each destination showcases a tapestry of tastes that invites food lovers on a remarkable gastronomic journey around the world.

As a general rule: do not travel, stay home and stay safe. However, if travel becomes necessary and there is no way you can avoid it then you need to act upon the following guidelines to ensure your safety and the safety of your loved ones.

Before Travel

Before you embark on your journey you need to consider the following:

• Do you think you are at an increased risk of contracting Covid-19?
• Is someone in your household or among your close circle of friends, family, and colleagues at a high risk of contracting Covid-19?
• Is the pandemic on the wane or the rise in your place of origin or your destination?
• Is the healthcare system of your destination good enough to cope with Covid-19?
• Are the hospitals in your place of origin brimming with Covid-19 patients?
• If you are traveling with a group of people, are you aware of their social movements during the last 14 days from the intended date of travel?

Please analyze the answer to all these questions honestly, and rethink your travel plans if the answers indicate that you might be at a higher risk of contracting Covid-19.

Before You Go

If you have decided to travel anyway, you need to take into consideration the following:

• Test yourself at least 3 days before you intend to travel.
• Keep the negative test result with you during your travel.
• Make sure you have an ample supply of hand sanitizers and face masks with you.
• Getting a flu shot would come in handy and if possible, a COVID-19 vaccine shot

During your stay, while you are at your destination, do the following:

• Avoid unnecessarily going out and meeting strangers
• If and when you go out, wear a mask all the time.
• Do not go out where you are likely to encounter large crowds
• Maintain a safe distance (6 feet or 2 meters) with people when you are out.
• Keep washing and/or sanitizing your hands as often as you can.
• Do not touch your face, nose, eyes with your hands.
• Check the travel and social distancing restrictions of your destination and follow them.
• If and when you feel any symptoms of Covid-19, practice self-isolation until your condition stabilizes. If the symptoms persist, seek medical advice immediately.

After Your Travel

Once you are back to your place of origin you need to do the following:

• Get yourself tested again even if you are not feeling any symptoms.
• Do not go out or meet people unless your test’s result is out.
• Even if your test’s result is negative, observe a safe quarantine period.
• If you were traveling in a group and any of your travel mates got sick after returning you should self-isolate immediately.
• Wait for their test’s result before you go out and start your normal life.
• Sport a mask even when you are inside your home and ask any other member of the house to wear a mask too as a safety precaution.
• Keep observing social distancing with everyone especially those who did not travel with you.

By observing these safety protocols, we hope you can make your travels safe during the pandemic.

Saudi Arabia has been known for sand, sand dunes, and more sand, as well as the oil industry, camels and burkahs. It hasn’t been known as a tourism hot spot. That is beginning to change. To get great travel deal at wholesale prices, go to http://bit.ly/VivTravelDeals

Saudi Arabia offers its visitors a wide range of Arabian attraction sites. But before we explore the different spectacular attractions, there are a few basic cultural tips about the kingdom that first-time travelers should know.

Back in 2019, the Saudi Arabian kingdom opened its doors for tourism unlike in the past when only religious pilgrims and business merchants were allowed and in regards to the same, it started offering visas. It is reported that Saudi Arabia is building an entertainment city in the city of Riyadh that will be twice the size of Disney World in Orlando. They are also building an ultra modern beach resort on the Red Sea and working on the restoration of UNESCO World Heritage sites. Here are some of the key considerations for first-time travelers in Sauda Arabia.

Public Spaces

There is a segregation of spaces where different genders have separate entrances and seats as well. Public display of affection is not allowed and it is required to seek permission before taking photographs. They have allowed for modest dressing for both genders and lifted the requirement for women to wear a cloak (abaya). Stores and restaurants are closed during prayer and no music is allowed at such times. Visitors are allowed to practice their own religion but are not allowed to preach in public or online.

Social Customs

The hosts are known to be generous and curious. They might offer a cup of coffee or a meal and even small gifts. Turning down such offers is considered rude. Remember to accept such hospitality with your right hand and never your left. That is because the left is used to wipe themselves in the bathroom and it is considered unclean. So you might say that in Saudi Arabia, left handers are shit out of luck.

Invites to their homes are common and you will be required to take off your shoes and sit on the floor (majlis) for traditional homes. In a modern setup, furniture is available. Always avoid religious and political topics. Men are not allowed to extend a handshake to women unless the ladies do it first.

Safety

The kingdom is safe as any other country. The question about the safety of tourists has been asked very many times. Therefore it is advisable to consult different travel advisories. As it is with other countries visitors are advised to respect the rules, customs and be mindful of their surroundings because safety begins with an individual.

Below Are Some of the Attractions

The Prophet’s Mosque

There are only two mosques in the world that can accommodate one million people and this is one of them. It was built in 622 by the prophet himself. Of course, it wasn’t originally this large. It has been expanded over the years. Beneath it is his resting place and the iconic dome which was built by Ottomans.

Jubbah Rock Carvings

It is a Premier Pre-Islamic site in the kingdom with one of the largest open-air art gallery. It has some the most impressive petroglyphs which date back to almost the 5500 BC and cover almost 40 square km.

Masmak Fortress

It is a squat fortification that is surrounded by sand and was built back in around 1865. At this site there was a daring raid in 1902 by Ibn Saud. Its doorway is still lodged with the head of a spear that was used during the raid. It exhibits an art gallery of photographs and maps from way back in 1912 to 1937. Some other exquisite attractions include Wahba Crater, National Museum, Empty Quarter, Hail Flea Market, Tabuk Castle Sky Bridge, Al Nafud Desert and many others.

In the corporate world, time and comfort are of utmost importance, for these allow the professional to attain maximum productivity each minute. When it comes to corporate travel, these are even more important to ensure that the professional’s productivity and output are not impacted due to issues like delayed transits, lack of comfort that does not allow him/her to work and so on. Taking all of this into consideration, it is important to employ a corporate limousine service that values time and professionalism above everything else.

Not Just Airport Transportation

Limousine companies often get called upon to pick up corporate travellers at the airport or drop them off. This is just one service a top corporate transportation can provide.

• Transportation for corporate events
• Corporate shuttle service
• Transportation of groups to conventions
• Road show transportation
• Transportation for business meetings
• Coordinating worldwide ground transportation arrangements

For this a good team and a variety of vehicle types are needed, from sedans to limousines to SUV limos, Limo buses, and Motor coaches.

Why Go for Corporate Transport Providers Over Regular Cabs?

This is one of the first questions that people who have not experienced the efficiency of corporate transport ask. In business travel, calling and waiting for cabs, coordinating with the chauffer for location, etc can be a very time and energy-intensive process. All this time and effort can be better spent, which is why a corporate limousine service can be the best choice in such cases.

More Convenience, Less Hassle

A good corporate transport company does several things a cab doesn’t do. Their travel solutions are designed to ensure minimal hassle and delay. The chauffeur can do a meet and greet where they wait at the arrival gate with your name. Cabs don’t do this. In airport pickups, the professional drivers ensure that they are at the arrival terminal well before time. They also keep track of the flights and adjust the pickup accordingly in case of early arrival or delays. For the same reason, traffic conditions are monitored.

With a good business transportation company you shouldn’t have to worry about anything when you arrive, and be assured of a comfortable journey without any issues. Just walk out of the airport and enjoy the smoothest ride to your destination. Similarly, corporate airport drops ensure that you can reach the airport on time and have a stress-free flight ahead.  Just sit back and relax and let the company take care of getting you to the airport on time and in comfort.

A good corporate limousine company can also take care of arranging your ground transportation anywhere in the world.

Other Offerings

In addition to airport pick up drop off, a good corporate limousine company also provides vehicles for point to point pickups, full-day rentals and long-distance travel as well. There is a vehicle and service to suit every corporate traveling need. Whatever the requirement may be- roadshows, corporate conferences, corporate retreat, etc, you should find the best in class transport solutions. Right from town cars to luxury vehicles with the most professional of staff, the company should put your time and comfort as its topmost priority to deliver unmatched service.

What to Expect?

With a competent corporate transportation company, you can be assured of getting the best for any transportation requirement. Right from corporate conferences to airport transfers, local pickup-drops, and even parties and other retreats, there is a travel solution for them all. If you are looking for a party bus to take your employees out after a long tough month, you can help company morale and spirit by providing a ride with style and panache. For large scale corporate events, it is also good to have relations with local law enforcement agencies to facilitate the movement of batches of vehicles without any hassles. The company should have transport solutions right from a single town car to a large fleet of luxury vehicles and party buses. This allows you to set your worries of corporate transport aside and just enjoy the luxury and service.

One of the best ways to travel is cruising. You get perks which include intimate ships with a few hundred or so people, breathtaking destination routes, and impeccable service tailored just for you. Of course, it’ll cost you but the adventure is unparalleled when you sail with the best cruise lines.

U.S. News and World Report ranked the seven best luxury cruise lines according to ambiance, amenities, activities, price class, and approval ratings from experts and travelers.

If you want to get some lower prices, try using http://bit.ly/VivTravelDeals. No guarantees, but this site usually has better deals than any other travel site we have come across.

Viking Ocean Cruises

Only five years since it made its way to the ocean cruising market, Viking Cruises has already earned praise for its luxury ships. Viking Ocean Cruises’ destination-focused tours appeal to adults whose interest is to learn the culture and history of their travel destinations.

Attractive perks include cabins with verandas, ship-wide Wi-Fi access, and complimentary shore tour at every port of call. Sweet!

The downside is, the cruise lines don’t offer programs for children, prices are high year-round, and 2020 itineraries have a minimum of eight nights.

Seabourn Cruise Line

This cruise line takes pride in its cruise experiences being the cream of the crop. Accommodating to about 400 to 600 guests, its five ships boast of luxurious amenities. Seabourn Cruise Line sails all around the world, cruising in the Caribbean, Alaska, and the Mediterranean as well as in Asia, Australia, and Antarctica.

The bright side to this cruise line is that accommodations are all suites with stunning ocean sights. Additionally, the fare is inclusive of onboard dining and beverages, and fitness classes and activities on board are complimentary.

However, they have strict rules on dress codes, no programs or services for children, and cruise fares are high year-round.

Crystal Cruises

What separates Crystal Cruises from other luxury lines is its low passenger-to-crew ratio, allowing more personalized services. Sailing all over the globe, its cruises last from four to 139 nights with itineraries covering the Caribbean, Asia, and Europe.

One of the best things about Crystal Cruises is that the cruise fare is inclusive of most of the onboard activities, beverages, and meals. Besides, children aged 17 and younger have a discounted rate or may sail for free! Plus, you’ll automatically become a member of the Crystal Society and avail perks such as upgrades and discounts after completing a five-day cruise or longer.

Unfortunately, the cruise fare is exclusive of spa and laundry services, shore excursions, and port and security fees as well as baggage handling fees.

Regent Seven Seas Cruises

With its all-inclusive luxury service, Regent Seven Seas Cruises received high rating approvals from travelers as well as experts. Its five ships boast of all-suite accommodations and welcoming, attentive crew members.

Guests can enjoy the complimentary shore excursions, culinary tours, and the varied activities on board.

Its all-inclusive fare includes the round-trip plane fare and ground transfers as well as specialty dining, beverages, and shore excursions. Passengers can also have access to free Wi-Fi.

Meanwhile, cruises are costly year-round and some onboard offerings like spa services are exclusive of the fare. There are also limited amenities and entertainment for children.

Azamara Club Cruises

Azamara Club Cruises is highly praised for its classy cabins and voyages to remote destinations. Its 700-capacity ships have a ratio of one crew member to two guests. The cruise line offers a three-night cruise, which is the shortest and the longest lasts for 26 nights. There are onboard fitness center, casino, and dance and musical performances to entertain guests during the voyage.

One of the high points of the Azamara Club Cruises is its service. There is butler service for all suites as well as attendants who will help you with unpacking your luggage for you by request. Cruise prices are also inclusive of staff gratuities so there’s no worry about tipping. They also offer AzAmazing Evenings on every voyage, which takes advantage of Azamara’s many late-night and overnight stay at ports.

On the other hand, this cruise line only offers luxury cruises and are expensive year-round. There are no shore excursions offered except when you avail the AzAmazing Evenings and onboard activities are limited.

Oceania Cruises

The six ships of Oceania Cruises pride themselves on their excellence in passenger service, gourmet dining, and clear and concise itineraries. Oceania’s shore excursions are just as diverse as its sailings and guests can entertain themselves with a wide range of activities like glacier adventures and vineyard hopping.

Passengers who would choose to sail with Oceania Cruises can have chances to unusual travel destinations. They also have a wide-ranging selection of gourmet restaurants to choose from which are ideal for foodies. Guests can also receive certain benefits through the Oceania Club loyalty program.

 However, certain onboard services are exclusive of the cruise fare, and there are no amenities or programming provided for children.

Silversea Cruises

Silversea Cruises stand out from other luxury liners with their large suites, gourmet food, and onboard events. They have several facilities onboard like pools, fitness centers, spas, theatres, and casinos plus enrichment programs from expert guides.

A plus sailing with Silversea Cruises is their voyages to remote destinations, suite accommodations that offer the view of the ocean, and open-seating dining that caters meals you prefer.

Unfortunately, cruise fares are expensive year-round and exclusive of some onboard events, and there are no events for children or teens. Hmm, not quite family-friendly.

So, which luxury cruise line is the best one for you? It will depend on which onboard activities, amenities, or shore excursions you’ll be interested on.

In the Southwestern Pacific Ocean, there lies two large islands that are part of a single country you may have heard about if you have ever seen a Lord of the Rings film, called New Zealand. Once a Polynesian island and home of the Maori people, today it is an independent nation that has some of the most breathtaking landscapes on Earth, with a unique culture that is a blend of the indigenous Maori and first settlers from Great Britain, and has many sights worthy of anyone’s bucket list.

Skiing at Numerous Resorts

New Zealand has lots of mountains and it follows that there is great skiing to be had there. Granted, it is a bit of a hike to get there, but it is worth it since there are lots of other things to do besides skiing. There are slopes on both the north and south islands. One is the Coronet Peak Ski Resort. It is near Queenstown and not far from Wanaka. It has slopes that will meet the needs of beginners to experts. There is Cardrona, Treble Cone, The Remarkables, Mt Hutt and many more. If you would like other skiing suggestions in other parts of the world, try this site: aventourpatagonia.com

Auckland: Where you’ll Land and Where You’ll Love

If you fly into New Zealand, you’ll most likely touch down in the massive metropolis of Auckland. Parks, and multicultural restaurants and eateries, home to the Auckland Art galleries, it’s easy to see why this place was named one of the top cities in the world by Lonely Planet.

There’s a number of guided tours to help you figure out your best adventures throughout the city, making Auckland the best place to start your New Zealand journey. Definitely consider staying for a few days, as it’ll take a while to see all the sights.e faint of heart but a must-visit for thrill chasers.

Milford Sounds like a Wonder of the World

At least, if you were to ask Rudyard Kipling about it, the Milford Sound being the Eighth Wonder would be the answer you get. Still, it’s not hard to see why this is commonly said by the locals. Formed by centuries of glacial movement, this expanse is an absolutely stunning fjord-laden land filled to the brim with forests and mountains, and waterfalls galore. If you’ve ever wanted to visit the inside of a painting by Bob Ross, chances are you’ll get the full experience here.

A perfect destination for the inspiration seeker in all of us.

Waitomo Cave: Like Stars on the Ceiling

Have you ever seen a glowworm before? They’re little creatures that contain bioluminescent bacteria that causes them to glow in the dark, which is quite a sight since they tend to cling to walls and ceilings. The Waitomo Glowworm Caves houses a massive number of these beautiful little creatures, and they line up like a path of stars upon the ceilings of the cavern, truly one of the most one of a kind experiences you’ll see anywhere on Earth.

Queenstown, For the Thrill Seekers

New Zealand has no shortage in activity variety, and for those who seek high octane adrenaline adventures, there’s no better place than Queenstown. Residing on New Zealand’s southern island, it’s the best place in the country to ski from June to October with world class slopes to scale. For those who enjoy the feeling of falling (safely) from incredible heights, there’s even skydiving, cliff jumping and bungee jumping, so you can see the countryside from a more daring angle.

Definitely not for the faint of heart but a must-visit for thrill chasers.

New Zealand is one of the most unique countries on the planet, and has just about everything you could possibly want from a travel destination. If you plan to visit, don’t miss out on any of these must-see locations! Just remember, if you happen to see any Hobbits on your travels, then you’ve probably stumbled on to a movie set and should quietly move out of the shot.

Always want to go to a beach and you don’t know where to go or know what beach is best to go to. On your wish list, you want to visit a beach that has a lot to offer and one with the best view or just want to get away from city life and just want to enjoy the smell of nature. Here are the best beaches to visit where you just want to relax on your next holiday. 

Baía do Sancho

This island beach is in Brazil. It has the most beautiful beach and has stunning sand and tourist can go on a journey on a path along the beach and enjoy the smell of nature and go and check out the waterfall and what amazing views are giving for you to see and see the forest cliffs. Feel this soft sand between your toes. Is the beach is defiantly to visit one day? 

Whitehaven Beach

This is one of the islands that look like is the water is white. This island is located in Australia. This beach is one winning beach between all the Whitehaven beaches. There are a lot of things to do on the island like diving, visit the national park, enjoy the wildlife, camping and a lot of other things to do. If you and your partner need some time alone this is the best place to go to. Make sure you visit this paradise one day.

Navagio Beach 

It is an electric blue water island. This island is in Greece. You can go and explore the caves; or you might want to climb to the clifftop and see the view from up there, and take a picture of the sunset on top of the cliff. There is also the caves of the turtles and it is worth it to go see them. You can see a shipwreck that crashes onshore in 1980. 

Don’t miss the Blue cave. In the cave you can swim underwater to see the cave or go by boat. The name says blue cave for a reason. It is really blue inside because of how the light comes through the water.

If you like going to the beach you must go and experience these beautiful views and enjoy nature. Plan a getaway and plan your accommodations to these beaches. If you love nature go on the islands that you like going to. Enjoy the views that you will always be with you