Best Places of Interest - Page 52 of 184

November 27, 2018 Food

What is your favourite street food? Part 16

Continuing the series on What is your favourite street food? Part 15

Street food Spain

has a few but, since autumn has just ended, let me tell you about the most typical one:

Roasted chestnuts

Not that much of a mystery. Spanish people love chesnuts and the best way to eat them is by the street and roasted. What’s charming about this is that they’re sold on stands where you can see the castañero roasting them on a metal furnace. It’s been like that since forever and many cities would not be the same without their chestnut stands set right at the start of the fall.

Hasn’t changed that much for the last century

Oh, and fear not if you don’t like chestnuts. These stands usually also sell sweet potatoes and cobs. Roasted too, of course.

Most Spanish food is awesome, but here’s some tips about it if you’re visiting Spain:

Good paellas are very, very hard to find. This is a very complex dish and very slow to produce (it takes around 1 hour and a half to cook).

Spanish Paella — Paella Mixta | A mixed paella with chicken and seafood toppe… | Flickr

Paellas are the NOT fast food and most paellas that are sold to tourists are cheap-ass frozen paellas. Avoid them unless you have a lot of knowledge about local restaurants.

Iberian ham is a delicacy, and I would dare to say that Spanish cold cuts are the best of the world.

Iberian Ham- Spain food — Iberian Ham – Picture of 7 Portes, Barcelona – TripAdvisor

You can’t go wrong with any of these, really. Museo del Jamón has some great ratio of “ham for your buck” thanks to its staggering economy of scale.

Spain has an even bigger variety of cheeses than France.

Manchego Spain cheese — Manchego By Zerohund – de.wikipedia: [1], CC BY-SA 3.0, https://commons.wikimedia.org/w/index.php?curid=1378114

If you can taste some local cheese, don’t think twice but do it!

Croquetas, Spain food — Croquetas de champiñón | Cocina de Nihacc
Image credit- cocinadenihacc.wordpress.com

Non-frozen croquetas are heaven incarnate.
Most gourmet markets have good food, but very touristic prices (that is, they are overpriced).
Commercial Spanish beer quality range from “meh” (Alhambra) to “crap” (Cruzcampo), but artisanal beers are an entirely different (and better) story.
Spain has some of the best wines in relation of price VS quality, both red and white. Drink them at will!
We know our seafood and fishes. Spain is, after all, the 2nd biggest market for all things sea, right after Japan. Don’t be afraid of the alien-looking sea creatures in our menus
Tapas are a great thing, but their quality and quantity greatly varies from one region to another. For example, Granada has a stronger tapas tradition than Madrid, which in turn has a stronger tapas tradition than Barcelona. In some parts of Spain they are even non-existent (The Basque Country has Pintxos instead of tapas, for example). Also, tapas or not, menus del día are the best way to eat (and the cheapest!)
Spain is a regional differences galore, and thus, its star dishes will greatly vary from one region to another. The more cosmopolitan the place, the better “high end” creative cuisine restaurants. The more rural, the better local produce. But it would really help to know which exact region you will be visiting in order to recommend you its speciality.

Spanish omlette — Tortilla-de-patatas
Spanish omelette Wikipedia

Bonus track: Potato omelette is a salvation table for vegetarians visiting Spain, and a hell of a dish.
Pro tip: Good potato omelettes contain onions, and are creamy on the inside (rather than dry). Accept no substitutes and treacherous claims about potato omelettes without onions, for they are false food prophets.

~ Eduardo Marqués Collado, Lives in Spain

So, what is your favourite streetfood in Spain?

November 23, 2018 Food

What is your favourite street food? Part 15

Turkey is literally the bridge between Europe and Asia. Also, it really is the centre of the world. You can fly about everywhere from Atatürk Airport.

Istanbul Ataturk Airport, Jul-2016
Image credit- Mitch Altman- Flickr

The name of our country actually comes from “Turchia” which means “Anatolia”.
Mustafa Kemal Atatürk is considered as our father. He is the founder of modern Turkey. Every year on the 10th of November Turkey stops for 1 minute on at 09:05 the time of his death.

Istanbul grand bazaar Turkish market traditional
Image credit-Pixabay

Istanbul’s Grand Bazaar is the largest and oldest indoor market. It was built in the 15th century.

Türk kahvesi, Turkish coffee, Istanbul — Türk kahvesi, Turkish coffee
Image credit -AlmilaS -Flickr

Turks introduced coffee “kahve” to Europe. We are proud of our coffee, it doesn’t taste like any other basic coffee. Its taste is strong and its preparation methods are very special. You don’t know what coffee tastes like until you’ve tried Turkish coffee.

We gave women the right to vote before most European countries and the United States. Women have been ‘equal” since the Hittite civilisation. Also, Sabiha Gökçen was the world’s first female fighter and Turkish pilot.
Although the majority of the population is Muslim, Turkey is not officially Muslim. It has been a secular nation since 1927.
Santa Claus was born in Turkey.

Simit is a bagel covered with sesame seeds sold nearly everywhere in the street. So simple yet so good.
Istanbul has a population 3 times larger than Ankara, the capital.
Turkish Hollywood is called “Yeşilçam”. It is an important part of Turkish cultures and the movies are simply fascinating.
Turkey introduced tulips to the world.
Historic legends such as Homer the poet, Herodotus, St Paul were born in Anatolia.
The world most precious silk carpet is located in a museum (Mevlana Museum) in Konya.
Turkish food is more than just kebabs.

~Yasemin studies Chemical Science (2020)

Turkey is a city of contrasts, absolutely different people, from Muslims to gays, from rich to homeless, from Europeans to Asians.

And it’s amazing. A huge city with 20 million inhabitants, impressive size and atmosphere.

You may also like to read Istanbul: Traditional Yet Modern

Street food is awesome. You can find everything. But one of my favourites is a wet burger. No cheese, no lettuce, no pickles – absolutely nothing apart from a wet, sauced up garlic-tomato bun and cutlet. But it’s so delicious. The best place to buy is Taksim Square, the best producers are Kizilkayala or Bambi cafe.

~ Nataly Lytvyn, PR & Marketing Manager

You will not leave Turkey without trying “Adana Kebap” or any kind of another kebap. I highly recommend “Urfa Usta” in Aksaray (if I am misspelt something, I hope Turkish friends will correct me). There you will get additional side dishes and a glass of ayran. You should definitely try “Dolma” in grape leaves. And don’t forget to try street food.

~ Šarūnė Zybartaitė lived in Istanbul

Turkey is very agricultural and one of the few countries globally which can easily feed itself. The varied geography, access to the sea on 3 sides, and climate offer superb growing conditions for vegetables, seafood and livestock.

The incredible flavours which go into mezes, the olives and olive oils of the Aegean, the freshly baked bread in every village and city in the country, and most importantly, the time it takes to properly prepare the food to suggest that it’s hard to replicate in a restaurant in Berlin or Chicago.

~Dina Street, Self-taught with lots of trial and error, specializing in Turkish and Indian.

Street food depends on where you are.
For Istanbul, we can say “Pilavcı” :

Pilavcı, Street food Istanbul — İstanbul’un En İyi 7 Pilavcısı – 2018 https://harbiyiyorum.com/istanbulun-en-iyi-7-pilavcisi-2018/

and also “Kokoreç“-

Kitir: Kokorec with Beer, Turkish street food — Kitir: Kokorec with Beer
Image credit-Tripadvisor

Kokoreç or Kokoretsi is a dish of the Balkans and Turkey consisting mainly of lamb or goat intestines, often wrapping seasoned offal, including sweetbreads, hearts, lungs, or kidneys. The intestines of suckling lambs are preferred.

Kokorec recipe The offal, along with some fat, is washed and cut into 1/2″ to 3/4″ thick pieces, and lightly seasoned with lemon, olive oil, oregano, salt, pepper, and sometimes garlic.

The intestine is turned inside out and carefully washed, then rubbed with salt and often soaked in vinegar or lemon juice and water. The filling meats are threaded onto a long skewer and wrapped with the intestine to hold them together, forming a compact roll usually about 16″-24″ long by 1 1/2″ to 3″ in diameter.

Kokoretsi is usually roasted on a horizontal skewer over a charcoal, gas, or electric burner, and maybe basted with lemon juice and olive oil. A quite different preparation mixes the chopped innards with chopped tomatoes and green peppers and then cooks them on a large griddle with hot red pepper and oregano added.

The cook constantly mixes and chops the mixture using two spatulas. When done, the dish is kept warm aside on the griddle until someone orders a serving. The cooked kokoretsi is chopped or sliced, sprinkled with oregano, and served on a plate.

Sometimes it is served on a piece of flatbread. Some add tomatoes or spices in it. It may also (especially in Turkey) be served in half a baguette or in a sandwich bun, plain or garnished, almost always with oregano and red pepper.

In Turkey, common side dishes are pickled peppers or cucumbers. It is often seasoned with lemon, oregano, salt, a pepper, and typically accompanied by wine or raki.

For Eminönü(a district of Istanbul) “Balık Ekmek(fish)“:

Extra: “Midye Dolma”(stuffed mussels)

Midye dolma-Istanbul street food — Midye dolma….mmm YUMMY! by ximenacab

Another: “Kestane Kebap”(chestnut)

Kestane Kebap- Istanbul street food — Image result for Kestane Kebap
1280 × 902Images may be subject to copyright. Find out more
Kestane Kebap Nasıl Yapılır? | Pinterest |

“Kumpir”(baked potato):

“Mısır”:(Corn)

Misir, Turkish street food — mısır fındık gıda mısır koçanı saman altın tahıl

That’s the best. From city(Gaziantep): “Nohut Dürüm”(chickpea)

So, what is your favourite street food from Turkey?

November 19, 2018 Travel, Round the world

Istanbul: Traditional Yet Modern

Istanbul, Turkey, Bosphorus, Sea, Outlook, View Image credit -Maxpixal.net

Istanbul is unique. Do you know that this city stands half in Europe and half in Asia? Straddling the two continents on both sides of the Bosphorus Strait, Istanbul is the cultural hub and the most populous city of Turkey. The city is proud of its seventy museums, 17 palaces, 64 mosques, and 49 churches of historical significance.’

Founded in 660 BCE as Byzantium, and as Constantinople in 330 CE, the Old City is amazing. Go around the Sultanahmet district, and see the open-air Roman-era Hippodrome (the ancient site of chariot races), Egyptian obelisks, and the Byzantine Hagia Sophia which has a soaring 6th-century dome and rare Christian mosaics.

Do you know that Bosphorus, being the only sea route between the oil-rich Black Sea and the Mediterranean, is one of the busiest waterways in the world – three times that on the Suez Canal?!

Hamam, Akko | by Jean-David & Anne-Laure, Istanbul Turkey — Hamam, Akko | by Jean-David & Anne-Laure

Hamam- Not to be missed – are the famous Turkish Baths and the Belly Dancers! The Turkish Baths, or hammams, are a great escape for all seasons.

Turkish belly dancers are known for their energetic, athletic style of moving their torso, and their adept use of finger cymbals.

Istanbul is famous for its historic seafood restaurants, many of which you will find along the Bosphorus, along with the Sea of Marmara, at the Prince Islands, and at the Eminonu Pier. Head for the Corlulu Ali Pasa Medresesi for smoking some flavored tobacco as well as for traditional tea and Turkish coffee.

Don’t miss out on Istanbul’s famous nightlife, wine houses, pubs, and historic taverns, which you will find along the Istiklal Avenue, Çiçek Pasajı, or Nevizade Street as also Nişantaşı, Ortakoy, Bebek, Kadıkoy and the Beyoglu Square.

Blue Mosque, Istanbul –

Exploring the city’s rich historical sites will be a rewarding experience. One of the most famous is the Blue Mosque with its huge dome, its lighting, the bright blue of the shining tiles, the awesome blue stained glass windows, and blue painted ceilings! The Rustem Pasha Mosque, on the other hand, was built by Rüstem Pasa, the Vizir of Suleyman the Magnificent, as atonement for his very sinful life! In addition, do go to the Hagia Sophia Museum / Church (Ayasofya) and see the Viking graffiti carved into the wooden rails of the top floor.

At Basilica Cistern, remember to keep your camera ready. The ancient ruins are the largest of the many hundred ancient cisterns lying beneath the streets of Istanbul. Also, don’t miss the upside-down Medusa and the Carps! Attending a concert here would be an amazing opportunity to enjoy the unique acoustics here.

istanbul turkey topkapi palace castle sultan, Istanbul Turkey — Istanbul Turkey Topkapi palace castle sultan
Image credit-pixabay

The Topkapi Palace is famous not only for its large collection of jewels and artifacts but its harem too! Include a tour to see the sacred relics believed to be Abraham’s Pot, Moses’s Staff, David’s Sword, Muhammad’s footprints, and much more.

An unparalleled shopping experience awaits you at Grand Bazar in the dozens of covered streets and thousands of shops. However, try to keep an eye on the signage pointing to the different exits if don’t want to get lost. Haggling is OK here!

Spend a day at the Golden Horn and see the Eyup Sultan Mosque, the Saint’s tomb, shop for Turkish Oya scarves and pashminas, and rose and jasmine oils, and visit the old Ottoman cemetery and the Sufi Monastery.

Spice Market, Istanbul Turkey — Istanbul Turkey spice market colorful local shop
Image credit-pixabay

The famous centuries-old Spice Bazaar is a haven for budget shopping and delectable food. Pick up gifts, sweets, spices, rose and jasmine oils, saffron or pastrami, or plenty of traditional Turkish meats and cheese, as you wind your way through this aromatic place. Harking back to the 6th century the Galata Bridge is famous for its numerous bars and restaurants and the sunset views. The 1,500-year-old Galata Tower offers some of the best views of the city, the Golden Horn, and the Bosphorus.

Scan the local news before heading for Taksim Square as this is the place not only for festivities like New Year’s Eve but also for hosting political protests! You must also enjoy a cruise on the Bosphorus which will give you a chance to explore the 15th-century Yoros Castle, views of the Black Sea, and have a seafood lunch near the base of the castle or on the waterfront. The gardens and the fountains at Dolmabahce Palace are gorgeous. This is the modern palace of the Sultans, but more importantly, the place Atatürk passed on.

Always carry a scarf and a long-sleeved cardigan to wear to mosques, etc. as shorts and miniskirts are not allowed. Also, Istanbul is a very hilly city, so wear comfortable shoes and bring your own socks because you’ll need to take your shoes off to enter mosques. Unfortunately, if you are wheelchair-bound, I do not recommend Istanbul.

Source

10 Best Places of Interest in Istanbul

You may like to read 10 Best Places of Interest in Istanbul

November 16, 2018 Travel, Round the world

How To Take Amazing Photographs Of Yourself As A Solo Traveler

Photos by Lucas Favre on Unsplash ,solo traveller

Travelling solo is a great way to gain new insights, experiences, and discoveries about the world you live in – and about yourself. When you’re on your own, you have the freedom to roam wherever and whenever you want and do whatever you please. You’re alone, and it’s one of the best feelings ever – unless you want to take home a good photo of yourself.

Since no one’s available to take a photo of you, chances are that you end up stretching your arms the farthest they can get, only to get a selfie that captures 20% scenery and 80% face.

But for some savvy travellers and photography enthusiasts, who always take their IG feed, blog or vlog, and personal album to the next level, solo travel photos are never an issue. You can snap a photo of yourself, in a picturesque location, even if you’re out on your own.

You just need to remember three great Cs: Camera, Creativity, and Confidence.

Camera and Gear

Your tripod is your BFF

A tripod is every solo traveller’s best friend.

You can have a long shot of the beautiful place with you in it without the help of another human. There are three ways:

Set the timer for 10 to 20 seconds, run in front of the camera/phone, and strike a pose.
Set your camera to burst mode, a setting that lets you take lots of photos in a short time.
Purchase a remote controller for easier access.

Next to holding your camera in place as you pose, using a tripod is also recommended for photographers who want to capture photos using long exposure, like shots of northern lights, night sky, fireworks display, and other dark scenes. Perfecting these shots is impossible with shaky hands.

Pick a tripod that’s sturdy enough to hold the camera and withstand the winds. For a more travel-friendly option, go for a lightweight and versatile gorilla pod or a mini tripod that fits easily in your pocket. Lastly, be mindful of your belongings, especially when shooting in public places. One can easily steal your beloved equipment while you’re striking a pose.

2. Bring a monopod or selfie stick

A monopod or selfie stick is a more convenient option. Just pull it out at every opportunity, strike a pose, and click – just like when you’re ziplining. It’s easy to use, carry around, and store inside your bag.

Selfie sticks, however, can only do so little if you want to capture more of the destination. You have a closer shot of yourself and a more limited shot of the space since the stick can be extended only up to 75cm long.

But hey, it’s enough to get more of a landscape into your photo than with a standard way of taking selfies. I mean, just look at the featured photo above. You can even use special effects to up your selfie game, like using fisheye lenses.

3. Use an action camera

Love outdoor adventures? An action camera is a must-have. It can capture images in environments where other cameras may fear to tread.

They come in a waterproof protective case, so you can get extraordinary shots, like when you’re playing with the school of fishes underwater or you’re tumbling through the air. Since it’s small and lightweight, you can place it anywhere – even on your head.

Creativity

4. Take videos and freeze your favourite frame

Just capture a moving picture and freeze it – that’s one amazing way to get a shot that looks alive. The technique works to give you that “candid-looking” shot of you walking along the beach or a jaw-dropping shot of you floating in the air (jump shot).

5. Snap random parts of your body

Sick of seeing your face in every picture? Take a break and just snap random parts of your body. You can take a shot of your feet on the white sand, with the turquoise sea in front of you, or a shot of your hand, holding a vivid cocktail glass in a busy bar.

6. Make the most of the reflective surfaces

We’re not just talking about cringy hotel bathroom selfies – we’re talking about making the most of different reflective surfaces you can encounter. One example is using the glass windows of restaurants and cars and taking a photo of your sunglasses that reflects the picturesque view.

7. Play with different viewpoints and angles

A close-up shot, medium shot, long shot, extreme long shot, low angle, high angle, bird’s eye view, worm’s eye view – your pictures will shine if you have a variety of angles and viewpoints. Use silhouettes too.

Confidence

8. Ask a stranger

Don’t have the skill and set of gears to take photos of yourself? You can always seek help from other people – like friendly strangers.

Ask a stranger to take a photo of you. It can be a hotel staff in the hotel you’re staying in, or a waiter at a restaurant, or a tourist like you. Find someone holding a camera, which may imply that they know how to shoot.

And besides, you’re not only travelling to see a foreign place or culture. You’re there to take part in a whole different world or way of life. Interacting with a new person is a great way to make memories.

9. Work it!

By taking a photo of yourself, especially if you’re carrying attention-grabbing gear, you might get that “look at that self-centred tourist right there” kind of glare from people.

The key is to stop caring: The less you care, the better the photos will turn out. You won’t even notice if anyone’s looking at you because you’re too busy framing the shot. It’s better to feel slightly uncomfortable for a little while than leave the place with regret because you weren’t able to document your journey through photographs.

Carmina Natividad is one of the writers for Holiday Inn Parramatta Hotel, a modern hotel in Western Sydney known for their exceptional hotel accommodation and location, which appeals to travellers in Australia. She has always been passionate about giving in to her wanderlust and collecting mementoes from different places.