In fact, after this post, there’s still one more Greek-wine-centric post to come! But more about that later. Today, I’m talking about one of Santorini’s best wine & cheese tasting tours. The full story is here. I need some wine now. Continue reading
I’ve been busy; lately, I’ve swirled, sipped, and delighted in copious cups of good wine (and as you can see above, tea). All, I’m telling you, in the name of ahem, research. From further afield, my insight: A guide to Turkish wine, plus wineries to visit in Turkey’s enchanting land of fairy chimneys. You must try it, … Continue reading
China. Zhōngguó. 中国. It’s the Kingdom of extremes, and one that’s utterly baffling to most outside of it. For me, however, China allures as strongly as the poignant smell of Chòu dòufu (or, stinky tofu). If you haven’t been to China before, trust me on this one, it’s powerful. This country, frankly put, is like nowhere else I’ve … Continue reading
Before I came to Turkey, I didn’t know that I had entered into some variation of Eden. In Fethiye, fresh food abounds, but not only in markets, street corner stalls and larger chain grocery stores; the seeds of sustenance sprout up in city gardens. Chickens run amok, corn stalks shoot up, goats tend to unmowed grass, and … Continue reading
Dip into Turkey and you’ll taste more than its stereotypical kebab and baklava. For starters, Turkey’s Spanish-style mezes, similar to tapas as some menus allude, are so refreshing I truly wish this took over as Turkey’s mass export to the world. My personal favorite, the yogurt dip, which is often flavored just right with fresh … Continue reading
The first time I visited Italy, I learned little Italian but two words, due cappucini. I was traveling with a friend on the usual itinerary, (Roma, Firenze, Milano), and my survival Italian, if you will, reflected my motives.I was in Italy, I would drink a cappuccino, or 4, everyday. Judge me not. One year later … Continue reading
Noun The state of being barred from one’s native country, typically for political or punitive reasons. It’s a fate, as I learned on my recent visit to Italy, that may not be so bad. That is, if you’re Napoleon on Elba Island. This is exile in style. In reverse order: While inside Napoleon’s Egyptian-inspired room, … Continue reading
Four weeks ago, I was selected as a blogger for Play your Tuscany, which means for 4 days I’ll be touring the best of Tuscany’s sea and nature! As I fall asleep, I’m already envisioning the delicious Italian dinners and other fortuitous moments that Italy will inspire. If you’ve read the itinerary (on the site), you’ve notice … Continue reading
At 25, I still don’t have a smartphone. It’s alarming to some, astonishing to others, and truly a first-world problem to all. For me, it’s something that just “sort of happened”. After a stint in Chile to China to Spain, I couldn’t rationalize the purchase, especially with my constantly changing zip code. In my head, … Continue reading
As I reminisce over my last two years spent in Spain, and its abrupt end (within 30 days), I wanted to wrap up my emotions with this post. It’s dedicated to my first Spanish love, the city of Granada. With its flirty bohemian spirit, Granada lures many to it. Students, hippies, circus freaks (I did see … Continue reading
Cut the Kitsch 