Travel Guides

While the true title of “best restaurant in the world” will never really be obtained, El Bulli is arguably one of the top restaurants world wide. It has placed #1 in Restaurant Magazine’s list of the Top 50 Restaurants in the World a record 5 times – in 2002, 2006, 2007, 2008, and finally 2009. It’s also considered to be a shoo-in for next years list.

Located in Catalonia, El Bulli is owned and run by legendary chef Ferran Adria, and employs a total of 42 expert chefs. While meals at El Bulli cost an average of €250, or about $375, the restaurant has run at a loss for the past several years. Their main source of profit is book sales (cookbooks and guides) and lectures from head chef Ferran Adria.

Owned by renowned chef Thomas Keller, the French Laundry is one of the world’s most exclusive and well-respected restaurants. Specializing in American and French foods, French Laundry’s food is, “to die for”, with critics and diners alike agreeing that the food, as well as the service, is virtually unrivaled. In fact, the French Laundry received the #3 spot on Restaurant Magazine’s 2005 list of the Worlds Top Restaurants, and has recieved countless other rewards from critics all around the world.

Located in the fairly quaint town of Yountvile, the French Laundry is quite secluded and private. Many fine diners enjoy this change of pace, as most quality restaurants are located in large, densely populated towns. The building itself is also something to be admired. Originally built as a saloon in the early 1900’s, this all-stone building is extremely beautiful, and has not seen any major renovations, so its originality is intact.

The Singapore Flier is arguably one of the best places to visit in all of South East Asia. When I first heard of its construction, I did not believe that such an enormous structure could fit in the tiny city island but once I see it upon completion, I am awed beyond belief because the Singapore Flyer is indeed larger than life itself.

1. Enjoy 360 panoramic view
If you want want to enjoy a beautiful 360 degrees panoramic view of the city, you don’t need to sneak up to the tallest skyscraper in Singapore. All you need to do is get a ticket to ride the Singapore Flyer and you will be rewarded with sights that will take your breath away! On a clear day you can see the bustling streets of Orchard Road, the scenic Straits of Singapore and even Batam Island in neighboring Indonesia! Being in this gigantic Ferris Wheel does not mean that you will only be contained in your seat for the entire 45 minutes – in fact, you get to take a stroll, take in the views and get excellent snap shots as souvenirs!

Walt Disney World may not seem like a culinary destination from the outside, but anyone that’s been there can tell you can get food just as diverse and upscale as you can get in Florida. The eateries at Disney World have it all – from McDonalds all the way to $100+ a plate gourmet meals. The variety of foods you’ll find at Disney World can range from simple sandwiches and burgers, to expensive steaks and lobster. Another aspect of Disney World is that they cater to pretty much any diet out there. It is a destination theme park that is famous the world over and has plenty of diverse food so that everyone can have a taste of home. The Walt Disney World restaurant’s and resorts also has several culinary events every year. Check their website often to find out more information.

When you think of Vietnamese foods you probably envision lots of spicy chilies, exotic spice blends and percolating pots of fishy soups. Well even across the globe busy people are still eating on the go. One of Vietnam’s most traditional and popular to-go foods is the Banh mi, or Vietnamese sandwich.

With its origins in French cuisine the Banh mi sandwich is made with a traditional French baguette, filled with a variety of fresh and local Vietnamese ingredients. Typically a spread of mayonnaise, garlic and cilantro is used on a sliced, whole-wheat baguette. The most common ingredients used n Banh mi are Vietnamese ham, ground pork, cilantro, pork pate’, daikon, pickled carrots, fish sauce and mayonnaise. A search of Banh mi recipes on the Internet will yield hundreds of traditional recipes and preparations as well as many modern interpretations using more western ingredients.