Eating in Kathmandu

After trekking up to Everest Base Camp and eating a basic diet of rice, rice and more rice when I arrived back to Kathmandu the last thing I wanted to do was eat more Nepalese food. My tastebuds were craving something different! So I went out exploring and found some delicious and beautiful cafes and restaurants to delight your tastebuds!

Places to eat in Kathmandu:

Gaia

Located off the main street on Jyatha street, this gem is tucked away in a corner with a lovely garden-theme style café. It is super cheap and food is plentiful not to mention super tasty. The dishes ranges from traditional Nepalese to Italian and basic sandwiches so no matter what you feel like, you can choose something yummy. Not to mention it’s a great place for a margarita which will only set you back $3.

OR2K

Sitting above a cheap and cheerful takeaway joint is the restaurant OR2K. It is on the second floor and a very cute place to sit down for a meal. Shoes must be taken off and guests sit around a low table on colourful cushions to enjoy a meal. The standout here are the falafels and hummus so make sure to treat yourself to a plate!

Fire and Ice Pizzeria

Nothing says comfort food like traditional Italian food and while it is far, far away from Italy it still serves a drool-worthy pizza that will make your belly smile. I am pleased to say it had my favourite pizza combo, rocket, prosciutto and cheese so I tucked in! Desserts feature the classic ice-cream and chocolate sauce combo to the more deluxe tiramisu. It’s a nice change from rice!

Rosemary’s Kitchen

Although I didn’t manage to get here myself this place comes with high reviews. Featuring cuisine from Nepal, India, Asia and Europe it has something for everyone. Not to mention a regular happy hour where the cheap becomes even cheaper! Dig in.

Spice Garden

Renowned for their delectable Indian food this place is a mecca for Indian-cuisine-lovers. Again I didn’t manage to get around here but the reviews are worth checking it out for. Tuck in to some traditional Indian food without ever leaving Nepal.

Your guide to trekking Everest Base Camp – what to expect. Read it here!

How to stay healthy when travelling

Having done a few long trips where exercise and fresh veggies were not in abundance I quickly learnt a thing or two about staying healthy when you’re on the go. If you’re heading off on your next adventure and worrying about your health then fear not. Give some of the following tips a go!

Walk everywhere

Walking is great to help burn off those extra calories, tone your legs and keeping you active. It also helps to save money and not spend it on transport! Plus you never know what little alleyway, cute coffee shop, lush park or friends you might see or meet along the way!

Shop at markets

Every city usually has a weekend market and it’s a great way to pick up some fresh, in-season fruit and veggies. Usually you buy less at markets too as you’re not tempted by a million other products around you. Choose a few delicious pieces of fruit and veg to fill you up for the following days. My favourites are melons, apples, stone fruit and carrots, cucumbers and tomatoes.

Walk the tourist attractions

Too often there are escalators that will do the uphill walk for you when visiting viewpoints. Take the challenge, save some money and walk instead. If visiting a national park and there are buses to take you from one section to another, walk instead. Not only is it good for the waistline but you will actually get to see what you came here to see!

Choose healthy snacks

Choosing the right snacks such as fresh fruit, veggies, nuts and crackers will keep you full between meals and help you to feel lighter and happier. Banish that sinking heavy feeling after eating junk food and opt for lighter options.

Get enough sleep

Too often nights in new countries are spent in a pub downing drinks. While this is all well and good, and part of the fun, getting some decent shut-eye regularly will really help you to stay healthy! Plus a couple of nights off booze is always good for the body.

But more importantly, don’t fret over those fries you ate in Belgium, the croissant you ate in Paris or the dozens of gelato’s you had in Italy. The whole point of travelling is to get away and explore somewhere new and part of that is food! Try and be healthy when you can so you don’t get sick and can enjoy your whole trip, but don’t get upset at yourself if your shorts are a little snug at the end of day. Life was meant to be enjoyed. Plus who knows if you will ever see that flavour, made by that Italian in that pizza restaurant ever again?! Go forth and enjoy. There’s always time for exercising and broccoli when you get home.

48 hours in Sydney

When there’s a million and one things to do in Sydney spending your time wisely ain’t always so easy. Whether you live up the coast, are on a layover, holiday or want to see more of your glorious city here’s a go-to guide for spending an epic 48 hours in Sydney.

Friday

You may be jetlagged and tired but Friday night in the city is alive and buzzing with people. Freshen up, have a power nap if needed and escape your hotel by 5:30pm. Make your way down to Opera Bar, which you guessed it, has iconic views of the Harbour Bridge and the Opera House. Watch the sun go down behind the bridge with a cocktail in hand to enjoy some of the best Sydney can offer. You may be feeling a little peckish, Mr Bao in the CBD serves some of the best Bao buns filled with moreish pork crackling, crispy chicken or battered prawns. If you’re after pizza, head down to Pizza Autentico for an epic $20 all you can eat feast. Having been fed and watered it’s now time to hit the town.

Saturday

It’s time for a swim in the pristine beaches. First off catch a train to Bondi and enjoy a laid-back brekkie by the beach. Try Porch and Parlour for a delectable yet healthy start to the day. If you’re feeling up to it, walk from Bondi to Bronte beach on the most magnificent coastal walk featuring endless blue skies and an expanse of ocean. Time for a dip in cool blue and finish off by drying in the sun.

Unfortunately it’s time to drag yourself away, so make a beeline for the train and get yourself back to the CBD. If there is a single ‘must-do’ it is to walk along the Harbour Bridge. Bring your camera because there are some great shots to be had! All this walking has left you a little peckish, it’s time for ice-cream! There is a great many ice cream parlours around, my favourites are Messina or N2. Try them both. From here walk down Elizabeth St, the main street in the CBD for a little window shopping. Make sure to visit the Queen Victoria Building as it really is something special!

From here keep walking till you hit China Town. It serves the best and cheapest Asian food around. Treat yourself to Yum Cha and enjoy a selection of dumplings, prawn crackers and an array of meat and veggies.

Back on the town tonight. Try the Beresford for a laid-back casual vibe which has a relax outdoor setting down stairs and a nightclub upstairs if you find some hidden energy. They also serve Italian food and have an extensive cocktail menu.

Sunday

Last day, don’t cry it will be one to remember. Get on an early bus to Manly, Australia’s second most famous beach. There is nothing like an early swim while the crowds are at a minimum and the only noise is the waves crashing at your feet. Bring a book and bask in the sun. When your tummy starts to rumble walk around the Corso (main street right behind the beach, impossible to miss) and have your choice of breakfast. There’s pancakes, eggs and healthier options like Acai bowls plus plenty of great coffee around. Sit in the sunshine and watch the world go by.

For your last chance to see some dolphins and have a beautiful ride, catch the ferry from Manly to Circular Quay. Slowly begin your walk back to the hotel to pack up and check out. With your bags in tow there is only one place to grab your last epic meal before boarding the plane home. Head straight to the Gardens of Alexandria for some gorgeous food served in a picturesque location. You won’t regret it.

Your feet are probably weary, your eyelids heavy but Sydney is such a magical city and there is so much more to see. You’ll be back!

My favourite Italian treats

Having spent an amazing two weeks in Italy and eating more than I could ever of imagined, I now imagine myself as a bonafide ‘foodie’ or at least someone who will go to great lengths to find the perfect Italian meal. Luckily I was doing a lot of walking otherwise I could have been rolled out of that country… If there is a place to splurge and throw calories to the wind, it’s Italy. Here are 5 of my all-time favourite treats:

1. Pizza in Naples. Maybe cliché but it has to be done. On the main strip in Naples, via tribunali, is the most amazing pizza from a restaurant called Ginas. It is insane how good it is and yet so simple. Trust me you’ll be licking your fingers and polishing the whole thing off in seconds. A margarita pizza will set you back a mere $3.30 euros.

2. Lemon Sorbet in the Amalfi coast. Ever seen pictures of those gigantic lemons that are the size of your head? Welcome to the Amalfi coast where citrus fruits are in abundance. On a hot afternoon, cool down with cold tangy lemon sorbet. Your tastebuds will tingle with delight!

3. Gelato from anywhere. From all the cities I’ve been to in Italy, gelato never disappointed me. It is unlike the stuff you get at home. It’s decadent yet light and the flavour is so creamy and just plain delicious. In a bid to try as many flavours as I could manage, my diet consisted of a scoop (or two) a day.

4. Cannoli in Rome. Crisp wafer shells with soft creamy filling and crumbed with pistachios. One thing not to miss, is a freshly made cannoli. Mind-blowingly good.

5. Seafood, pesto and focaccia in Cinque Terre. I couldn’t decide on a favourite so here are all three. The pesto is amazing, so fresh and packs a punch. Cinque Terre is the birthplace of focaccia and rightly so they make a delicious slice. All the towns sell single slices that put Sydney focaccia to shame. And the seafood… Since its on the water youd expect good seafood but it goes above and beyond. Try a cone of fresh seafood for $5 euros, or indulge in a seafood pasta. The best seafood pasta I have ever had was in Manarola.

 

The three cities of Germany: part two

On our quest to see Germany, Hamburg made a great second pit-stop after Berlin. As we were heading towards the Netherlands, we stayed at the top of Germany and avoided going south towards cities such as Munich. Not knowing what to expect, Hamburg could have been in a completely different country from Berlin. Berlin is eclectic, whereas Hamburg felt much more traditional. Tree-lined canals, quaint cobblestone streets, perfectly aligned trees, swans and gorgeous water features are just some of the features you can expect to see. Rich in history, a free walking tour from Sandemans was a welcome insight into the city, not to mention a great way to get our bearings.

Hamburg is lush and green and with wide walking paths lining major canals, it’s a beautiful place to take a stroll, or use one of the many benches to enjoy a picnic dinner. Sitting there with some takeaway salad and cold German beer it’s a picturesque evening with bikes whizzing past, groups of joggers and families walking dogs. Not to mention it’s a great way to burn off that delicious German food.

St. Nicholas Church is a must-see attraction as a memorial to World War II. The city of Hamburg was relentlessly bombed and the church stands half-burned. The spire reaches up into the sky and stands as a reminder of the tragedy that occurred. Restoration works were going on, but the spire can be climbed for a magnificent view of the city. Under the burned ruins is a museum, and for a mere few euros is a great place to absorb some knowledge, or escape the rain as we happily discovered. 

Little bakeries selling fresh sandwiches and sweet cakes are everywhere and are worth stopping at for lunch. Lured by a golden flaky cake with white icing I couldn’t help myself and before I knew it, I was holding a brown paper bag and making my way down to the major canal on the edge of the city. I have no idea what it’s called but there’s soft, sweet fluffy bread with a cakey-crumble like topping that it sweet and buttery with a white sugar icing on top. It is huge and extremely rich and is perfect shared for two. Throw the diet to the wind and make sure to get one – that’s what travelling is all about, trying, seeing, doing and experiencing new things. Don’t miss out.

Be careful of the swans, they look pretty and meek but will be snapping at your fingers searching for food in no time at all. Visit the botanical gardens for lush greenery, blooming flowers, pops of colour, statues and watery gardens. They are free and spectacular.

   

Hamburg is a major shipping port for Germany and is very industrial. It is one of the wealthiest cities and is currently building a contentious new opera house that is costing more than ever imagined. It may not have made any ‘favourite’ city list, but it was a welcome break and a chance to explore more of Germany is a chance I’ll always take..

The last city we visited in Germany is Cologne – and what a blast! Stay tuned for next week..

Portugal in a nutshell

With a minimal 3 nights in Lisbon and 3 nights in lagos I was eager to experience as much of the Portugese culture as I could. Lisbon is a beautiful city and much like every European city is filled with monuments, statues and gorgeous cobble-stone streets. The best hing to do here is wander around, from the port to the main square, to all the winding alleyways and hills that offer spectacular views you will not get bored.
My favourite things to do are:

• walk. Just go on an adventure and find your own favourite place to relax and enjoy Lisbon.
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• visit Belem. Just a short 15min tram ride away is the Belem Tower and monastery. The monastery is a lot smaller than expected but so serene and beautiful it makes up for its size. Here you can read lots of history about the building or enjoy it’s peaceful green courtyard that’s surrounded by ornate carved wooden walls that are exquisite to admire.
• eat pastels del nata. These famous portugese tarts are incredibly delicious and you’ll be doing yourself a disservice to miss out. There is a small blue pastry shop just down from Belem monastery that is famous for its pastries, and with reason. They are delicious! Another great spot in Lisbon is Manteigaria. Mine was warm and fresh out of the oven, I tried it like a local, with a sprinkling of cinnamon and icing sugar and am still day-dreaming about it now.. Next door is also a great bakery which sells Gods Bread – treat yourself again and buy one for a mere $1 euro, they are scrumptious! And kind of taste linebackers delight finger buns (sweet bread buns with icing).

• see St George castle. Dotted around the castle are little areas of green where locals sit to enjoy some wine and food. Don’t be shy to copy them, they’re there for a reason. Grab your own picnic, hike up and relax. The views are rewarding and look out over Lisbon.
• go to Barrio Alto. This area comes alive at night (we mean 11pm onwards) and the tiny cobbled streets are filled with those eager for a drink. Bars and clubs open everywhere and people spill outside, drink in hand, making friends and having a good time. Make sure to join in.
• visit the local restaurants. Just up a hill from the main square this bubbling little restaurant has the best salmon steak I have ever had in my life. It is literally bursting with flavour and just flakes apart with a fork leaving you mouth sized pieces of slightly charred skin and juicy pink flesh to devour. Walk up the little hill on your left, climb the stairs, turn right and there’s a little restaurant with tables and chairs all over the pavement. From here you can see the castle between the buildings too, and watch the sun disappear with good food and wine.

British food in a mouthful

While there are lots of reasons to travel, getting to try new food is always a favourite part and London is no exception. While its nothing crazy and out of the ordinary from Aussie food, there are some novelties.

Cream tea

This is my favourite thing to eat/do. Just find any cute looking café and order tea and scones with clotted cream and jam. You can thank me later. After a long day wandering through the (free) museums, a 3pm pit stop for a cream team goes down a treat. English tea is as good as they say and usually comes in a very generous portion for only $2 pounds that they say is for one, but can easily be shared between two. I’ve had both cold and warmed scones, fruit and fruitless scones and can’t pick a favourite. I love scones in any way they come, although warmed fruit scones are always a much welcome surprise. Layer with cream and generous lashings of jam for a treat you won’t regret.

Fish and Chips

Known to be a popular British staple it lives up to its expectation. Always crumbed in light and crispy batter with light flaky white fish and generous serving of crispy chips this is a meal that won’t disappoint. Sprinkle salt and top with Tartare sauce for a hip-hating yet lip-licking meal that suits any time of the day.

Sunday Roast

Sadly this one took me 7 weeks till I got around to trying it, and now I want it every Sunday. The Kings Lion is a pub just down the road from my Uni and for $12 pound was served a deliciously big portion of pork with crunchy crackling, amazing potatoes, broccoli, carrot, Yorkshire pudding and gravy. I want another just typing this. Admittedly there wasn’t enough gravy and the puddings not the best, but the pork was divine. And for someone who felt like a home cooked meal without the cooking or washing, it really hit the spot. Treat yourself to a Sunday roast, it’s well worth it even if it is something your mum can make you at home.

Steak and Ale pie

Nothing says delicious like a hot flaky pie, with chunks of beef in a gravy like sauce paired with a cold cider (or beer) in a warm pub. A pie can do no wrong, so go out, order one and enjoy it. And don’t judge if the Australian in me still puts tomato sauce on it.

Full English Breakfast

Save this one for when you’re hung-over or haven’t eaten and its lunchtime. You need an empty and growling stomach. A thick piece of sliced toast topped with eggs and a side of mushrooms, roasted tomatoes, baked beans, bacon and sausages will make anyone happy for a day. Fair warning, you won’t be able to eat for another 10 or so hours. So enjoy, it really is delicious.

Scotch Eggs

Sadly I ran out of time to try a fresh, just cooked Scotch egg and was reduced to trying a pre-cooked one picked up at the local supermarket. It’s a soft boiled egg that’s been wrapped in minced meat and usually eaten hot with the egg still runny and meat warm. While my tummy grumbles just thinking about this version, I was only privy to trying a microwaved heated one but it was still enjoyable and I’m adding it back on to my list of things to try when I return to London. Keep your eyes peeled for an update

Naughty but oh so nice: Chipotle Chicken Burrito

There’s nothing quite like a good burrito; soft bread that encases a delicious mix of flavoursome rice and beans, strips of seasoned chicken, sour cream, cheese, salsa and my all-time favourite, guacamole. Finding a good burrito is like finding a needle in a haystack, which is why I want to spill the beans on a delicious Chipotle Chicken Burrito I got the pleasure of tucking in to on the weekend.

Inspired by a recent post on Urban List, of the top 50 places to eat in Sydney I decided to work my way through it and of course, couldn’t go past a Mexican joint with their signature burrito. The Beach Burrito Club in Bondi serves this wonderfully delicious burrito that had me salivating for more – if only my tummy was big enough for another. For a mere $13.95 expect to be full and delightfully satisfied. For a chilli lover like myself, the beans could of done with a hint more chilli salt, but if chilli isn’t your forte you cannot fault this Mexican wonder.

Where’s your favourite Burrito joint? (or just your favourite foodie place in general because we all love a belly-warming meal). Next week ill release the name of the next joint and I’ve heard it’s a doozy…

 

Exploring Sydney: Buns and Balls

To be honest, this isn’t an entirely new post. I went to Buns and Balls in early February but since I didn’t go anywhere new this week I decided to relive the memory. So this is another blog about exploring sydney and just so happens to be in Kings Cross, again.. But bear with me because this isn’t about delectable pizza and decadent cocktails like last time. This is about good old burgers and spicy chicken wings.

Buns and Balls

We first went here hungry and annoyed after being denied entry to another bar due to strict dress codes but it has some winning elements that more than shelved our annoyed selves. It’s a little tucked away which makes it hard to find but inside there are rows of table, pool tables and corners with padded cushions and lounge chairs perfect to relax, enjoy a cocktail and some good friends company. The lighting is dim and lends to the overall ambience of the place. Towards the back is their alcohol cabinet made of glass where we sat and picked out our favourite spirits and marvelled at all the weird yet oddly cool bottles. We ordered a sangria, or two but no-one’s counting right, while we waited for our food to arrive. Seeing as the name was Buns and Balls we all got a burger, mine was a chilli chicken burger and a serving of wings to go with it. The burger was about $10 and wings $1 each. While the place is known for having great burgers they didn’t knock my socks off. They were delicious, but  I expected more of a WOW factor due to its reputation. The wings, however were incredible. Dusted with chilli and other spices they pack a punch, to cool them down they come with a very generous pot of melted blue cheese sauce and when paired together create a taste explosion in your mouth. If you can handle a bit of spice and a lot of flavour, I definitely recommend getting at least 3 wings each because you will definitely want them all.

Unfortunately the place has since moved on from Kings Cross but is re-opening in the Eastern Beaches, so if you’re around go down and get yourself some chicken wings. Yes, you can thank me later.

 

 

How to travel on a budget

Travelling.is.the.best. No questions asked.

If you’ve never been I urge you go to now, trust me there is a whole world out-there just waiting to be explored. Go anywhere you want, do anything you want, be anything you want.

Travelling is also hard on the bank account, you’d be surprised at how much food costs. Seriously when I first went travelling I thought a little about food, but I didn’t factor it in as one of my biggest expenses but it totally is. If you’re planning your first trip, or wanting to go on your second, or third here are some ways to travel on a budget.

1. Realise that 90% of your diet is now going to be bread and cheese. It’s cheap and cheerful. Make sure you eat bread special to each country, such as a Baguette in France and crusty bread in Italy. It tastes amazing and also keeps food boredom at bay.
2. Find cheap meals – Ask the people you meet, the hostel workers, tour guides and locals for some cheap places to eat and any special deals such as 2 for 1 lunch meals.
3. Take a water bottle – Water adds up fast. If you go to Europe you can pretty much drink the water from any tap, although always ask locals first, so make sure to bring a reusable bottle and fill away.
4. Get a student card – Most museums, gardens, and other places of interests are usually half price or less for a student. So get on board.
5. Choose 10+ dorms in Hostels. Yep the more people in your room the cheaper it is. All you need is a good padlock and a friendly attitude and you’ll have a blast.
6.  Walk everywhere – seriously, screw those bus passes, put your shoes on and walk around. It’s the best way to explore the city and you get a more traveller experience than just a tourist experience ( and yes they’re different)
7. Choose hostels with a kitchen – May sound stupid but they’re great for cooking up some pasta for dinner, heating some microwave or steaming some veggies. And it’s super cheap.
8. Couch surf – Yep you can stay for free on someone’s lounge. Great way to see a city and save yourself some pretty pennies.
9. Don’t buy alcohol out – This is self explanatory. Hit the bottle-o prior to a night out, do some shots and go clubbing with only $10 in your pocket. You know it’s going to be a cheap night.
10. Take advantage of the free walking tours – Yep, there’s pretty much a free walking tour in every European city. Just ask your hostel and don’t pay for one.