Exploring the Bronx

While most of you might think that exploring the Bronx sounds like a crazy way to spend your time in New York City, it was right up my alley. 

We started off by taking in a little of our heritage in Little Italy, with a stroll down Arthur Avenue. So many great bakeries & salumerias, it was tough not to stop in every one. We checked out Madonia, which is known for its amazing biscotti. 

Almond & Anise - both amazing - especially with espresso!

Window paintings at the salumeria, but here's the real window art...

Every cut imaginable!

For dinner we went to an old family favorite, Yolanda's. 

Classic Italian favorites

And finished with box seats at the Yankees game!

Back at the Gansevoort sporting my new Yankees apparel after a big win :)

NYC: Top Notch Restaurants

Yes, I know, I am a bit of a foodie, and sometimes feel like I am always traveling for a good meal. So when I was in New York City with my mom, it gave me the perfect excuse to take her out to some places that I always wanted to try. First up is Le Bernardin. I had read about Eric Ripert for years, and always had seen him as one of the great chefs in the US. I was thrilled to learn that my fiancé had arranged for a table at Eric's restaurant. 

We went for lunch, so it was less formal then dinner might be. The restaurant itself felt fairly formal, the staff very proper and the salutations kind, yet not overbearing.  Upon seating, the sommelier greeting our table to discussing champagnes available, and then returned to discuss the wine pairing for the tasting menu that we had selected. A very affable and knowledgeable staff is always a good first impression for me. 

The restaurant was filled with businessmen and women as well as the elite social crowd of New York City. The tasting menu did not disappoint. I opted for the monkfish because I felt like if anyone were to create this ugly fish into a masterpiece it would be Eric Ripert. True to his reputation, he delivered.

Everything from start to finish was impeccable, especially the tableside visit from the chef himself. The slightly bashful and always intriguing Chef Ripert happily greeted us to ask how everything was. The obvious answer: outstanding!

If you have a little cash to spare and want a top notch experience, don't miss Le Bernardin. You will not be disappointed. (Le Bernardin, 155 W. 51st St.)

Another one of my favorite restaurants is Apiary. I found Apiary when I was reading up on Scott Bryan, the former chef of three-star, Veritas. He has always been one of the chefs I followed because not only is he an interesting guy, but is known to be a no nonsense chef who cooks with his head down and takes an ordinary dish and turns it into something completely outside of the box (You can read about him in Anthony Bourdain's "Kitchen Confidential" in the chapter 'Life of Bryan'). I'm not talking about Wiley Dufresne outside of the box, as in cooking with dry ice and turning calves liver into caviar. I'm talking about outside of the box in a way that you can truly appreciate (and get your belly full) - The kind of food you can't believe you had never thought of before, the simple foods that you can no longer think of in a different way now - only Scott Bryan's way.

Apiary is a non-pretentious modern restaurant tucked into 3rd Avenue, near the theater district. It's tasteful modern decorations go well with the less formal & more down-to-earth staff.

We opted for the chef's tasting menu and chef Bryan sent out several intermezzos for us to try between courses. The endearing chef came out to chat with my mom and I and it was such a treat. Scott's a little shy, but super sweet. My mom mentioned a tattoo that was half showing under the sleeve of his chef coat, and he nearly talked her into heading to Jersey after work to get some ink. Funny guy!

All the talk of the chef; I don't want to leave out the food. Great tasting menu, reasonably priced, I would even say it was a steal. I sent several people there afterwords and they have also thought it was a great deal for the money, especially with the pedigree of the chef preparing it! (Apiary, 60 3rd Ave.)

NYC: Budget Bites

Are you planning a trip to New York City and want the full experience without the hassle of all of the expenses? You certainly don't want to skimp on the dining, but you don't want to break the bank? There are so many great finds in NYC that will keep you smiling & amazed! Here are a few of my favorites. 

Gray's Papaya is always a staple. For a few bucks, drop by & grab a dog. Don't forget the onions - something special about them that really makes that dog! There are several locations, so just check your smart phone and I'm sure there will be one nearby.

Another favorite is Corner Bistro at 4th &  Jane. They are known for the simplicity of their menu and their killer burgers and fries. Nothing fancy, but a great old-fashioned house made burger. You may have to wait in a line, but it is worth the experience. And don't forget to etch your name in the table!

Another one of my favorites, and yes it is a franchise, is White Castle. There is nothing better than a tiny little burger to make you smile. Every time I am on the East Coast, I have to grab these little bites, at least once!

You cannot go to New York City without having the traditional slices. I'm talking about those pizza slices that are bigger than your head! So huge you have to fold in two just to manage them. And Koronet's Pizza is my favorite place to get these. I always go for the cheese pizza, but the pepperoni does not disappoint either. Again, nothing fancy, but the best slices I have ever had! And if you are into the touristy NYC diners, the diner where Seinfeld was filmed is just across the street from my favorite Koronet (2848 Broadway).

Some other great places, without breaking the bank, is Katz's Deli, which is known for a certain scene in "When Harry Met Sally" and also for their off-the-charts deli sandwiches - pastrami is my go to. Enjoy!

Northern California Retreats - CordeValle

I know it has been a while, and though I wish I could say I've been traveling nonstop since I last wrote, the truth is, I've been working nonstop! As if being an attorney wasn't enough, I opened a restaurant as well! The restaurant is doing fabulous, and though I never imagined myself being a restauranteur, it only made sense, since most of my travel blog is About the food I had while traveling around the world :-)

I did have the opportunity to go on a few vacations, which I will share with you. We also just bought a home in Cabo, so hopefully many more pictures and tips about Mexico will be soon to follow!

For now, I am posting a photo of my family, taken at our secret hideaway, Corde Valle. It's like a vacation, without the flight for road trip. I hidden gem in our backyard. 

Corde Valle is located in the foothills of Northern California's Santa Cruz Mountains, and is a secluded luxury resort in a pristine setting. It has a little country club charm and luxurious amenities, including a spa, vineyard, and championship golf course. A perfect retreat for us Northern Californians.

Siem Reap, Cambodia: Snacking, Dining, and Drinking!

For a comparatively small town, Siem Reap offers an amazing range of cuisines and dining venues. The emphasis is on Khmer food, which can be found at restaurants across town, but European and other Asian cuisines are also well represented, including Italian, Thai, German, Vietnamese, Indian, Chinese, Korean, Japanese and, of course, French.

Given Cambodia's long relationship with France and France's gastronomic traditions, it is no surprise some of the town’s finest venues offer French cuisine. So explore and enjoy!

Feeling a little crazy, try Estatic Pizza and get the happiest pizza you'll ever eat! They are located Opposite Province Hospital, Near Old Market, Phone: (855 11) 928 531.

The proprietor takes the orders and bakes the pies. A great casual place to relax and enjoy a special little treat... The pizza is made with the finest green leafy substance around and will certainly leave you hungry for more ;)

My tip... order one pizza, extra happy, and then one regular for the road. Otherwise it's just a downward spiral, baby!

Happy Pizza

... and that's certainly not an abundance of oregano!

Mui Ne, Vietnam: Hot Rock Restaurant

So looking at this little make-shift hut, I have to say, my expectations weren't set to high. On the good side, there were several scooters parked out front, which generally indicates that I've found a local hangout (since most of the tourists were far too scared to venture onto a moped). I thought I'd give it a try. What did I have to lose. It was called Hot Rock. But frankly, as long as it's not a franchise restaurant, I am down to try anything...

The Hot Rock Restaurant

Much to my surprise the Hot Rock was a fun little place. Owned by ex-pats who were eager to show you just how the place got the name Hot Rock... they welcome you by laying down some hot rocks (bricks) and a little grill, and then serve you a variety of the freshest seafood, topped with a tiny slab of butter, half wrapped in foil. They do have a menu, but when hitting a place like this I find it much better to just have the waiter/proprietor (which is generally the case in Vietnam) send out their picks.

On this occasion, they served up a ridiculous amount of seafood, and a dipping sauce for each. I had shrimp, scallops, squid, white fish and a variety of unidentified tidbits that made my mouth dance with excitement. I loved the crackling sound as the butter melted and dripped over the sides of the fish and onto the charcoal, which then sent up a puff of smoke and gently flavored my fantastic little treats.

You cook your meal at your pace, and to your liking. Which is always fantastic, I think. A little hands on never hurt anyone. I left the shrimp on long enough to allow it to get blackened, giving it a hearty and smokey flavor that can't be rivaled. The scallops were grilled just long enough to see the grill markings, but not as to not loose the moisture. The squid curled as it cooked, blackening just the tips, giving it an amazing flavor. Try that with a sweet chili sauce, and you're money!

Siem Reap, Cambodia: A Game Plan for Angkor Wat

With such an amazing history and story, it would seems a waste to only "drop by" Angkor Wat. You really need to have a game plan in effect for visiting this site. I explored the temples for two days, and felt like there was still so much that I could have seen and done.


In preparation of the big adventure, I would highly suggest that you contract with a tuk tuk driver for your entire stay in Siem Reap. Not only is it the easiest way to get around, but the drivers are reliable and affordable, and can definitely use the funds to help support their family.

Bayon

I have set out a two-day schedule for exploring Angkor Wat. However, if you have more time, that is fantastic!

For your first day, get up bright and early and visit Angkor Thom, Bayon, Elephant and Leper King Terrace. Be sure to get there for sunrise, as it is simply gorgeous at Bayon temple. You can either break for lunch at the many tiny restaurants dotting the nearby roads, or better yet, pack a lunch and picnic right there!



In the afternoon, take your time exploring and visiting Ta Prohm and Angkor Wat. Wear those walking shoes and be prepared for a full day!

If you aren't too scared of heights, be sure to climb (very carefully) to the top of Angkor Wat for an outstanding view. There is one hand rail for the 25 foot wide stairs, and since only one person is lucky enough to use it, most just pile up the stairs with reckless abandon. Me? Not so much. I waited it out til all those crazy kids got up there, then proceeded to take the handrail! Much better!


On day two, check out Preah Khan, Neak Pean, Mebon and Pre Rup. Don't miss Angkor Wat's reflection on the lake as the sun begins to set. It makes for a breathtaking view and awe-inspiring photos.




After seeing this amazing site, do your best to give back to the community, be it through making a few purchases at the local shops and restaurants, or simply by tipping your tour guide or driver. They appreciate it more than you will ever know!

Siem Reap, Cambodia: Visiting Angkor Wat

Angkor Wat is not one temple, but a complex of many temples at Angkor, Cambodia, built for the King Suryavarman II in the early 12th century as his state temple and capital city.

Unlike most Khmer temples, Angkor Wat is oriented to the west rather than the east. This has led many to conclude that Suryavarman intended it to serve as his funerary temple.

Afternoon reflections

The outer wall, 1024 by 802 m and 4.5 m high, is surrounded by a 30 m apron of open ground and a moat 190 m wide. Access to the temple is by an earth bank to the east and a sandstone causeway to the west; the latter, the main entrance, is a later addition, possibly replacing a wooden bridge.

A view from the top of the main temple

Bayon Temple

The Bayon Temple was the last state temple to be built at Angkor, and the only Angkorian state temple to be built primarily as a Mahayana Buddhist shrine dedicated to the Buddha, though a great number of minor and local deities were also encompassed as representatives of the various districts and cities of the realm.

The Faces of Bayon Temple

The similarity of the 216 gigantic faces on the temple's towers to other statues of the king has led many scholars to the conclusion that the faces are representations of Jayavarman VII himself. Look for the smiling face at sunrise. It a truly amazing view that will make you smile for years after your visit.

All smiles...

Siem Reap, Cambodia: The History

Siem Reap is a small colonial town just north of Southeast Asia’s largest lake, Tonle Sap. The town itself is charming and delightful to explore, and offers some lovely examples of French colonial architecture though modern developments, mostly in the form of hotels.

It has been a relatively slow demise of the Khmer Rouge, but now that the town is safe again, visitors have used it as a base for visits to Angkor Wat.

Ruins of Angkor

A Bit of History...

From the 9th to the 14th centuries, as Europe was still struggling out of the Dark Ages, the Cambodian Empire of Angkor encompassed most of present-day Laos, Vietnam, Cambodia and Thailand.

Reliefs in Angkor

The heart of this empire during its peak in the 12th century was the ancient capital of Angkor Thom (near present day Siem Reap), the site of the world’s largest temple complexes that was only rediscovered in 1861, overgrown by jungle.

Overgrown trees of Angkor

This spectacular city was built over 30 years under the reign of Suryavarman II (1113-1150). The whole area covers 400 sqare kilometers and is brimming with the finest examples of Khmer art and architecture. Within the Angkor Wat compound alone, are over 100 stone monuments and temple edifices, each of which contains countless statues, sculptures and bas reliefs that have weathered extremely well over the last 800 years.

Stone lion statue

Exploring...
To see the whole thing can take several days, as you get delightfully lost in its labyrinthine corridors. The most important temples to visit in the area are Angkor Wat – especially at sunrise and sunset; Angkor Thom, the remains of the capital; Ta Prohm, a palace overgrown by jungle; and Preah Khan, which is also overgrown and in the process of restoration.

Labyrinthine

I spent much time exploring and lost, walking along winding paths, confused by aware. All the while I was lost, I was not scared, but was enveloped in the moment and appreciating my surroundings. I allowed myself to see things that not every traveler would, and to venture off the beaten path.

Relief in Angkor

Take your time. Explore. Get lost. And find yourself. A visit to this city would never be regretted. Enjoy!

A little lost...

and loving life!

Mui Ne, Vietnam: Red Sand Dunes

You haven't tried everything until you have tried sledding down a sand dune! Mui Ne is not only known for its amazing coast line, but also for its rich red sand dunes.

The sand and the water meet for an amazing view

Only a short ride by moped on the only road leading north out of town and you will find the well-known red sand dunes. Once there, it is only seconds until you have an entourage of little boys asking if they can "help" you go sledding.

The entourage

They are cute, and of course, you do need something to sled on, because last time I checked I forgot to bring a plastic sled. They work in teams and will offer to watch your moped, while the others carry the sled to the best location, which happens to be about a mile away!

Once you are there, if you still have any bit of breathe left, they will escort you on a tiny sheet of plastic, your sled, and ask you to hang on to a piece of rope. Before you know it they are behind you and push you down a pretty steep dune.


Note: Keep your mouth shut! Though you would like to scream an excited, "Wheeeee," remember, you are sliding down sand. Sand! And unless you want a mouth full of grit and grime, close the trap!

The kids will stay out there with you until you have had your fill. Frankly, hiking back up that dune a few times was all I needed for my vacation workout.

Wheeeee!

The trekking and sledding was certainly invigorating, and so was the face of the kid who was watching your moped. Now, the entire entourage, even the kid just following you around, wants to be paid. Each would like about $20, which would make your little sand sledding adventure about $200. Don't worry, they are happy with $20 altogether.

As we drove our moped back to the resort, I attempted to brush the sand off of my face, causing a nice exfoliation, bordering on peel. The best thing to do is the outdoor shower. Don't miss your ears... because the sand sure didn't.

Ah yes, the red sand... deeply embedded in every pore of my body!

Then smile, after all, you just rode down a 100 foot sand dune on a tiny sheet of plastic... and survived!

At the bottom of the dune, with a mouthful of sand!

Mui Ne: Where to Stay

If you haven't already booked your hotel, I would very happily suggest Bien Xanh, also known as the Blue Ocean Resort. It is an absolute retreat, with bungalows opening up directly to the ocean. You can watch the fishermen head out at day break and come in with their catch.


They also offer on-site laundry service, which was very convenient, especially when traveling light. Bien Xanh has a beautiful, crystal clear swimming pool with a swim-up bar. Perfect for those lazy afternoons. The breakfast is a full buffet of local fruits, custom-made omelets, tables of side items, and a barrage of fresh juices.

Relaxing in the gorgeous pool and...

reflecting!

There is also a great restaurant located beach side offering great snacks, both American and Vietnamese. So if you are craving that pepperoni pizza, but also want some pho, this is your place. I am starting to sound a bit like an advertisement. But actually, I was just really amazed with the quality and service at the resort.

There were also other resorts within walking distance. So if you want to change it up or meet your fellow tourists, most of the resorts do have nice, moderately priced, restaurants and bars.

Pho please!

Also, watch for the happy hour. In Mui Ne, they do it right with buy-one-get-one-free drinks, 3p.m. - 8p.m. at most lounges.

Mui Ne, Vietnam: Getting Away to the Beach

When you need to get away from the hustle and bustle of busy HCMC, hop a bus and visit Mui Ne Beach, where you will find beautiful blue ocean, red sand dunes, and friendly locals more than happy to show you around.

Enjoying the blue ocean view

Mui Ne is a coastal resort town in the Binh Thuan Province of southeastern Vietnam, located on an arm of the South China Sea. The town is close to the city of Phan Thiết, the home of fish sauce, so be sure to try every varietal of fish they offer. It is fresh and the sauce is incredible!

Colorful boats line the shoreline

By bus, Mui Ne is about six hours from HCMC, making one stop at a fuel station, allow for a quick restroom break, ice cream and cookies. If this won't keep your belly full, you are free to bring your own food and drink on the bus, but be sure to purchase it the night before, as the bus leaves around 6 a.m., before most stores are open.

The bus ride was around $35 per person, round trip. The tickets can be purchased at most travel agencies in HCMC. We simply walked in one near our hotel, and the next day we were off to Mui Ne.

Our bus was equipped with a/c, which was a big plus from those Cambodian bus rides! The seats reclined, but it is close quarters and like many buses, the multi-colored cloth seats end up in the persons lap behind you when you decide to recline, so keep that in mind.

Docking time in Mui Ne

Upon arriving to Mui Ne Beach, the bus will drop you off at a fairly inexpensive hotel with small bungalows and offer you the "lowest rates." If you have not made reservations and need a place, it did look clean and many backpackers decided to stay.

However, don't feel like you need to get roped in to the drop-off hotel. There are many great hotels in Mui Ne, offering beachfront bungalows, and a reasonable rate. So in my opinion, do your research and book online before you get there. You will get a better rate and a better location.

You will notice that there are no cabs in Mui Ne. This is because it is such a laid back beach lifestyle. You can simply flag down someone on a moped and offer them some money. They are more than happy to take you to your hotel. Just be ready to pile all your bags on the moped with you and hold on tight!



If you are interested in renting a moped, ask your driver. It was our experience that for about $10 a day, the driver rented out his personal moped and helmet, no credit card, no deposit, no hassle.