/**/ May 2015 - Travel + Decor + DIY

#MyDubai Food: Karama Dubai Hidden Gems

Karama is a residential neighborhood at the 'Old Side' are of Dubai. It is known for its diverse community groups mainly from South Asia and The South East. This maybe the reason why you'll find a lot of specialty restaurants offering local cuisines from different nations.

I lived in Karama during my early years in Dubai and saw how this neighborhood evolved from a place that you'll normally dread visiting or even to pass by and now transformed to a foodie heaven for those with a more adventurous palate.

I once asked a Scottish friend living in Karama why he chose to stay here, he answered quickly -----> "THE FOOD! Cheap and Authentic!"

As one of the many fans of this place, I thought of creating a list to share with you some 'hidden gems' where you can find good food at a very reasonable price in Karama.

Note: There are a lot of food translations needed in this blog (you will find them italicized and in this color) ^^.

BETAWI (Indonesian)


If you are looking for an authentic Indonesian meal, Betawi surely is the place for you. This humble restaurant offers one of the best Nasi Goreng (Indonesian fried rice) that I have ever tasted. It was recognized by Time Out Dubai as a Highly Commended South East Asian Restaurant. Every dish is a taste of the South East from its generous serving sizes to its richly flavored dishes.

[caption id="attachment_2802" align="aligncenter" width="800"]Betawi Karama Hidden Gems Food blog mydubai foodporn travelfood travel Dubai Pecel Timbel[/caption]

[caption id="attachment_2803" align="aligncenter" width="800"]Betawi Karama Hidden Gems Food blog mydubai foodporn travelfood travel Dubai Dadar Gulung[/caption]

Aside from their Nasi Goreng, I would highly recommend trying their dessert called Dadar Gulung (pancake with sweetend coconut inside) and sweet drinks called Es Teller (fruit cocktail, coconut, milk and grass jelly mix)  and Es Campur (fruit cocktail, jackfruit, avocado, coconut, grass jelly and Indonesian syrup mix).

Follow Betawi On Social Media: Facebook 

RAJU OMLET (Indian)


Just directly beside Betawi, you will find a small restaurant fully decorated with eggs. With egg emojis on their shelves and several posters educating you about the goodness of eggs, you'll then realize that you have entered inside Egg Heaven.

Famous to Indians and Emaratis, Raju Omlet boasts on their clever selections of.....you guessed it right! OMELETS! From a simple Cheese and Mushroom Omelets to a more adventurous dishes as the Cheese Masala (Indian spice mix) Omelet.

[caption id="attachment_2804" align="aligncenter" width="800"]Raju Omelet Karama Hidden Gems Food blog mydubai foodporn travelfood travel Dubai Raju Omlet[/caption]

Aside from their omelets, when you'll get to visit this cute food joint, you should also order their famous Karak  Chai Tea (strong sweet tea with milk) to compliment your filling snack.

[caption id="attachment_2805" align="aligncenter" width="800"]Raju Omelet Karama Hidden Gems Food blog mydubai foodporn travelfood travel Dubai Masala Omelette and Karak Chai Tea[/caption]

Follow Raju Omlet On Social Media: Facebook, Instagram

Al Atar (Mainly Filipino)


The Al Atar Building near Karama Center is also known as the 'Filipino Mall'. Normally people (mostly Filipinos) go there to look for electronics, mobile phone accessories, perfume, bags and RTW on a budget.  If you have been to the Philppines, this is Dubai's version of Greenhills. Aside from all the accessories that you can haggle, what is great about Al Atar is its small food stalls.

[caption id="attachment_2806" align="aligncenter" width="800"]Al Atar Karama Hidden Gems Food blog mydubai foodporn travelfood travel Dubai Electronics And RTW Retail Shops[/caption]

[caption id="attachment_2807" align="aligncenter" width="800"]Al Atar Karama Hidden Gems Food blog mydubai foodporn travelfood travel Dubai Filipino  Snack Shop[/caption]

[caption id="attachment_2808" align="aligncenter" width="800"]Al Atar Karama Hidden Gems Food blog mydubai foodporn travelfood travel Dubai Taho Vendor[/caption]

You can find several restaurants selling typical Filipino street food and snacks here such as Turon (caramelized plantain rolled in spring roll wrapper), Siomai (a filipino version of a dumpling), Kwek Kwek (deep  quail eggs covered in orange colored batter), Palitaw (boiled grounded sticky rice covered with sugar and grated coconut)  and Taho (fresh soft/silken tofu with sugar syrup and tapioca pearls) . During winter time (Christmas Season), you can even find stalls selling Bibingka (rice cake topped with salted fermented eggs) and Puto Bungbong (steamed purple sticky rice served with grated coconut).

As a Filipino, Al Atar is truly God sent for us. Every time I feel homesick and craved for something that will remind me of home, I often visit this place. Although most of the time very crowded, it is worth every trip.

[caption id="attachment_2809" align="aligncenter" width="800"]Al Atar Karama Hidden Gems Food blog mydubai foodporn travelfood travel Dubai Taho!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!![/caption]

[caption id="attachment_2810" align="aligncenter" width="800"]Al Atar Karama Hidden Gems Food blog mydubai foodporn travelfood travel Dubai Siomai with Spicy Soy Sauce and Roasted Garlic[/caption]

ERIC'S RESTAURANT (Indian, Oriental)


Eric's is very famous for its Indian dishes but keep in mind that it also serves Thai and Chinese. Most of the time, whenever we visit this restaurant, our eyes are fixed with their Indian specialties.

The moment you will enter Eric's you'll be welcomed by its very homey and intimate interiors. I must say that it is not too big but spacious enough that you will not feel that you are eating in a very crowded space.

[caption id="attachment_2813" align="aligncenter" width="800"]Erics Karama Hidden Gems Food blog mydubai foodporn travelfood travel Dubai Erics Karama[/caption]

[caption id="attachment_2811" align="aligncenter" width="800"]Erics Karama Hidden Gems Food blog mydubai foodporn travelfood travel Dubai Fantastic Wings[/caption]

If you happen to visit this restaurant, I would recommend that you should try their Fantastic Wings and Buttered Chicken paired with Garlic Buttered Naan (leavened oven-baked flatbread). These are my Eric's staple dishes.

[caption id="attachment_2812" align="aligncenter" width="800"]Erics Karama Hidden Gems Food blog mydubai foodporn travelfood travel Dubai Buttered Chicken and Garlic Buttered Naan[/caption]

Follow Eric's On Social Media: Facebook

YALLA MOMOS (Nepalese)


This cute little snack bar at the corner of the street is known to be the first momos (Nepali dumpling) joint in the UAE.  Whenever I am in Karama, I always pass-by this corner and I can't help but be curious on the smiling dumpling logo. In one of the travel forums that I am subscribed to, one of the bloggers there recommended this joint and after reading, I called a friend and invited her to join me and try this seemingly famous food joint.

I had a full disclaimer when I invited her as I didn't know what to expect. Surprisingly we both enjoyed it. Yalla Momos serves ---- you guessed it right! MOMOS! Different varieties of  affordable bite sized dumplings.

[caption id="attachment_2814" align="aligncenter" width="800"]Karama Hidden Gems Food blog mydubai foodporn travelfood travel Dubai Yalla Momos[/caption]

[caption id="attachment_2815" align="aligncenter" width="800"]Karama Hidden Gems Food blog mydubai foodporn travelfood travel Dubai Zomato Users' Choice[/caption]

In all their dumplings, you have an option to have them steamed or fried. We tried both and I preferred the steamed ones (I don't really like oily food).  During our visit, we tried the Chicken 3C Momos which is a mix of chicken with 3Cs (chilli, cheese and capsicum) and also the Shrimp Momos. There are a lot of flavors to choose from, so if ever you will visit this place don't hesitate to play around and try several kinds.

[caption id="attachment_2816" align="aligncenter" width="800"]Karama Hidden Gems Food blog mydubai foodporn travelfood travel Dubai Fried and Steamed Momos[/caption]

 Follow Yalla Momos On Social Media: Facebook

Karama can be too much for a lot of people. I had my fair share of complaints when I was living here. Too crowded, so much traffic and noisy. But when I started to discover that Karama is a place full of hidden treasures, I always find myself back here, whether alone searching for new gems or with friends trying out our favorites among the list above.

Have you ever been to Karama? Let me know your favorite food spots in this busy and thriving neighborhood.

Kenneth Surat logo travel blog blogger

Photo of The Day: Chavayan, Batanes Philippines

A trip up north the Philippines for my graduate thesis paper. The beautiful Chavayan in Batanes.

#MyDubai Trip: 3 Full Days Dubai Trip (And A Little Side Trip to Abu Dhabi)

A few days back one of my best travel buddies from Paris visited me here in Dubai and we had a full 3 days to discover and roam around this vibrant city. Surprisingly, after our trip (and after posting several photos on Instagram), a lot of my friends (and readers) were asking me suggestions of places to go to on a short term visit here in Dubai.

It was a good 3 days, me and my friend did a lot and were able to cover almost all the major sites to see in Dubai---> and also did a side trip to Abu Dhabi on our 2nd day.

If you are sharing the same passion for the old towns, local arts, (a bit) adventurous,  doesn't mind the heat, walk long distances, on a budget and on a short stay  visit here in Dubai, this itinerary is tailor made for you.

DAY 1


Bastakiya (Historical District)+ Old Dubai Souk+ Gold Souk+ Dubai Mall+ At The Top (BurjKhalifa)+ Dubai Fountain


Day one will be full packed! This will be your crash course of all Dubai. Once you've finished with day one, the rest of your trips will just be add-ons and bonuses. Our first stop will be the Historical District of Dubai, The Bastakiya Quarter.

BASTAKIYA


I love this place. We have chosen this as the first stop because you will see here the 'OLD DUBAI'. The Dubai that you don't normally see in Architectural and Business Magazines.  The first time that I visited this place, I fell in love with it in an instant. As what my 'Instagram' friends said, this place is grammable. And it surely is. There are a lot of interesting things to see here.

[caption id="attachment_2786" align="aligncenter" width="800"]Bastakiya Heritage Village Dubai MyDubai Travel Wanderlust TravelBug travelblog UAE Trip Tour Bastakiya Heritage Village Dubai[/caption]

Here are the top things to visit in Bastakiya. (Note: All of these are just walking distance to one another. Also in this trip, you should wear comfortable shoes.

Al Fahidi Fort - Oldest Building in Dubai


Bait Al Wakeel - First Office Building in Dubai


Dubai Museum - I still feel that there are a lot of things that they need to improve here but still a few minutes to go around is not too bad.


Sheikh Mohammed Center for Cultural Understanding - They offer Heritage Tours and Cultural Meals.


XVA Art Gallery  - A very artsy gallery and cafe. A must visit for all art enthusiasts (and if you want a place to stop over and cool down).


Coffee Museum - If you love coffee, this is self explanatory ^^



OLD DUBAI SOUK


After a full cultural walk, time to visit the souk to look for potential souvenirs and gifts. Known as the Textile Souk or Burdubai Souk, this market place encapsulates the essence of a traditional souk. Although there are a lot of small stalls selling very touristy items, you can still find worthy keepsakes as a token of your visit.

[caption id="attachment_2787" align="aligncenter" width="800"]Bastakiya Heritage Village Dubai MyDubai Travel Wanderlust TravelBug travelblog UAE Trip Tour Dubai Souk[/caption]

DUBAI CREEKSIDE


Along the Heritage District is the Dubai Creek. This area was once the center of trading in Dubai which is still very evident with the presence of big wooden cargo boats across the creek. To really get a grasp of the 'old school' way of crossing the creek, hop on the Abra (a traditional small boat transport).

The Abra is still very functional and (as far as I know), open 24/7.  It cost only AED1 per way (a true value for money). When riding the Abra from Burdubai, make sure you are sitting at the right side of the boat in order to get the best view of the whole Heritage Village from the creek.

SPICE AND GOLD SOUK


Once you've gone across the creek, you'll find yourself in Deira another town in the Old Dubai. This will be the last stop for this part of the tour. Walk a little further and you will be able to visit the Spice Souk where you can purchase anything from tea leaves to the finest saffron from Iran.

Just a few blocks from the Spice Souk, you will find the Dubai Gold Souk. Perfect for all those looking for a 24 karat bling bling on a bargain.

WHERE TO EAT


What me and my friend planned out before starting our walk in Bastakiya is to first go for a big breakfast. When you start your trip early in the morning, the best thing to do is to visit the local cafes in Bastakiya. They are conveniently located at the corner of the quarter (along the main road).

Although more and more these traditional restaurants and cafes are becoming very touristy and commercial (we can't stop them from doing business right?), I would still suggest that you should try them out, location wise. If you are looking for a more 'day to day' local eat and drink, try to walk towards Al Fahidi Metro Station and you can find small yet authentic Middle-Eastern and Indian Restaurants.

[caption id="attachment_2740" align="aligncenter" width="800"]Bastakiya Heritage Village Dubai MyDubai Travel Wanderlust Travel Bug UAE Trip Tour food Local House Arabian Teahouse Arabic Breakfast Platter + Camel Kebab + Samosa[/caption]

As for me and my friend, we tried the Local House which offers Camel Kebab and Burgers and also Camel Milkshake. Because we haven't tried anything camel before, this is the reason why we have chosen this as our breakfast place.

The interiors are beautiful and relaxing, although we were not a bit sold out with the food. Because it is conveniently located, we were able to map out our plan for the day here.

If you are not curious with anything camel, I would  highly suggest that you should try the Arabian Tea House and order their Arabic Breakfast Tray with blooming tea.

 DUBAI MALL


After a long early walk, time to cool down and head to the biggest shopping mall in Dubai. The Dubai Mall houses almost 1,200 retail shops and known as the largest shopping mall all over the world based on the total area. At this leg of the trip, you can relax around and do some retail therapy. There are a lot of shopping seasons in Dubai, so if your visit will be in time for one, you're in luck.

[caption id="attachment_2741" align="aligncenter" width="800"]Dubai Mall MyDubai Travel Wanderlust Travel Bug UAE Trip Tour Dubai Mall and the Dubai Fountain[/caption]

AT THE TOP IN BURJ KHALIFA


A trip in Dubai will never be complete if you haven't been to the viewing deck of the Burj Khalifa. It is a bit pricey but worth the bragging rights. The entrance of the climb is conveniently located inside the Dubai Mall. If you are planning to climb, make sure that you will make your advance booking online ( as it will be cheaper compared to a walk-in purchase.

[caption id="attachment_2742" align="aligncenter" width="800"]Dubai Mall MyDubai Travel Wanderlust Travel Bug UAE Trip Tour Burj Khalifa At The Top At The Top Burj Khalifa[/caption]

DUBAI FOUNTAIN


There is no time limit in staying at the viewing deck, you can stay there and enjoy the view a long as you want. Once done, and most probably, it will be night time (basing from the time frame of this itinerary), you can head on the Dubai Fountain to watch the Dancing Fountain Show. Apart from the Burj Khalifa, this show is highly visited by tourists and Dubai residents and I must say, every time I watch a show, I always get mesmerized. The best part of it, it is FREE. You can buy an ice cold drink from any of the cafes in the food court and sit down along the steps at the foot of the Burj Khalifa and watch (sometimes, you can sing a long too)!

WHERE TO EAT


Well, at this time, you will be in Dubai Mall and there are a lot of restaurants inside the mall. If you want a fancy Middle Eastern Cuisine, you can try Wafi Gourmet at the ground floor which has a direct access to the Dubai Fountain. But if you are starting to miss some European selections, you can try Madeleine Boulangerie and Cafe which offers an overlooking view of the fountain.

More restaurants can also be found across the mall in Souk Al Bahar. These are a bit of the more expensive option if you fancy for one.

[caption id="attachment_2747" align="aligncenter" width="800"]Dubai Mall MyDubai Travel Wanderlust Travel Bug UAE Trip Tour Food Aprons and Hammers[/caption]

For me and my friend, we walked out of Dubai Mall towards The Address Downtown Hotel and went to a seafood place called Aprons and Hammers. It is a casual urban restaurant outside Dubai Mall meaning, it will be not too noisy and crowded. I've been here several times with my Dubai friends and aside from the very colorful interiors, we enjoyed their gigantic servings of Paella. This option was perfect after a very long day. We were able to take our time eating and chatting about what we've seen throughout the day. (Visiting a coffee shop after the meal is optional -- although recommended).

DAY 2


Casual Brunch + Driving Around The City (optional) + Side Trip To  Abu Dhabi


After a long first day, we started the second day of our trip with an early morning chill in a local coffee shop. This is a glimpse of the expatriate culture in Dubai. Housing a large number of expats, Dubai has been a hub of different and diverse nationalities and as a result, several establishments catering to the international community can be seen around the metro.

CASUAL BRUNCH 


For this trip, we've visited the newly opened, The Sum of Us located at the back of Sheraton Hotel along Dubai Sheikh Zayed Road. The servings are good and the menu is very continental. Good food, good interiors and a good cup of coffee is the best way to start your day.

[caption id="attachment_2743" align="aligncenter" width="800"]The Sum Of Us Food Foodgram MyDubai Travel Wanderlust Travel Bug UAE Trip Tour The Sum Of Us[/caption]

SIDE TRIP TO ABU DHABI 


Abu Dhabi is roughly an hour and a half to two hours travel from Dubai. If you dont have any other plans for the rest of the day, going to Abu Dhabi on a side trip is worth the shot.

You can take the bus that will drive you straight to Abu Dhabi for AED15 one way cost, or you can get a rent a car and experience a short cross country drive from Dubai to Abu Dhabi. For me and my friend, we've decided to get a rent a car so we can also have a quick drive around Dubai before heading to the country's capital.

We went to AVIS Car Rental and took the cheapest car which is a Nissan Micra. I costs AED 100 for a day (full tank refilling of AED 60 for the petrol we consumed for the day).

The main attraction that everyone should go to when visiting Abu Dhabi is the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque. For me, more than the stunning exterior I fell in love more of its richly ornamented interior decor. As an added tip, to understand more about this magnificent architectural piece, grab a free audio guide before entering the main mosque.

[caption id="attachment_2745" align="aligncenter" width="800"]sheikh mohammed grand mosque Abu Dhabi MyDubai Travel Wanderlust Travel Bug UAE Trip Tour Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque Abu Dhabi[/caption]

Because you are already in Abu Dhabi, it will be a shame not to get a glimpse of the nation's capital. After your tour in the Grand Mosque, drive your way to the Corniche and see the Emirates Palace and the Etihad Towers.

WHERE TO EAT


To be honest, we are not really experts on where to eat in Abu Dhabi, good thing we can consult our trusty Zomato. We came across several restaurants offering local cuisines but the reviews were kinda mixed. When we saw Najd Palace in the app and all their patrons claimed that you can find the best Mandi ( rice and meat dish with a lot of middle eastern spices) in Abu Dhabi here, we didn't think twice and pointed our google map search to this restaurant.

[caption id="attachment_2746" align="aligncenter" width="800"]Abu Dhabi MyDubai Travel Wanderlust Travel Bug UAE Trip Tour mandi Najd Palace Najd Palace Abu Dhabi[/caption]

You can choose if you want to sit on the floor or have a normal table setting, we of course have chosen the not so conventional option and sat on the floor. We ordered Grilled Chicken Mandi and the Camel Stew Mandi. Both were really good. I prefer the chicken one but the camel dish is a close second (only downside was you can feel that it is too fatty). For desserts, we have chosen the Knafeh ( a Levantine cheese pastry soaked in sweet sugar-based syrup) which I have been craving for weeks now.

After our king size meal, we headed back to Dubai.

DAY 3


Beach + Red Dune Desert Safari


The last day of your trip. We are calling it as a chill day. Fresh from our long drive to and from Abu Dhabi, it is fitting to start your day on a relaxing morning by the beach. Dubai, although perceived as a warm desert region is surrounded by beautiful beaches (although nothing in comparison from those in South East Asia). For this itinerary, you can choose between two beaches and both have their strong points, meaning you can't go wrong with either of them.

SUNSET BEACH


The first option to get your tan is by the Sunset Beach. This is a famous beach for locals and residents specially during the surfing season. Aside from the clear blue sea you'll get a postcard view of the Burj Al Arab ( known as the world's only 7 star hotel). This beach can be very peaceful or can be too crowded, depending really on the season.

[caption id="attachment_2748" align="aligncenter" width="800"]MyDubai Travel Wanderlust Travel Bug UAE Trip Tour Sunset Beach Burj Al Arab Sunset Beach Dubai[/caption]

THE BEACH


The second option is along/opposite JBR (Jumeirah Beach Residences) simply called The Beach. Compared to Sunset Beach, it is more commercialized as it is really a beach front along a full shopping and retail complex. Most of the time this beach is crowded with tourists and expatriates, you'll feel like you are somewhere in Miami (specially on a fine weather). This beach can easily be accessed by Dubai Metro and Tram unlike Sunset Beach which you need to drive to (or hire a cab).

[caption id="attachment_2749" align="aligncenter" width="800"]MyDubai Travel Wanderlust Travel Bug UAE Trip Tour Sunset Beach Burj Al Arab The Beach JBR The Beach JBR[/caption]

WHERE TO EAT


If you have chosen the Sunset Beach, there are a lot of food options along Jumeirah Road, from pizza to burgers or even a fancy biryani. The closest and shabbiest food joint/cafe will be the Surf House. Aside from filling up your stomach, you can also rent surfboards and paddle boards here.

[caption id="attachment_2777" align="aligncenter" width="800"]MyDubai Travel Wanderlust TravelBug TravelBlog UAE Trip Tour Sunset Beach Surf House The Surf House[/caption]

For The Beach, as this is a full commercial complex, you'll have a lot of accessible food options here. You can find Aprons and Hammers (same where we ate dinner on the first day), Cheesecake Factory, Magnolia Bakery and Shake Shack. We have chosen to grab a Shack Stack Burger in Shake Shack and a freezing lemonade to compliment it.

[caption id="attachment_2750" align="aligncenter" width="800"]MyDubai Travel Wanderlust Travel Bug UAE Trip Tour Sunset Beach Burj Al Arab The Beach JBR Shake Shack[/caption]

RED DUNE DESERT SAFARI


After our early out and about, we waited for the pick up for our Desert Safari. Desert Safari's normally start at 3pm (pick-up time at your hotel/residence). For this trip, we have chosen the Red Dune Safari. Known as the Big Red, this is one of the most popular places to go dune bashing in Dubai. It stands 300 feet high creating a thrilling 4x4 experience.

Aside from the ride itself, you'll get a chance to stop over and grasp the beauty and serene view of the desert. Truly the best way to end a 3 day trip around the sand pit.

[caption id="attachment_2751" align="aligncenter" width="800"]MyDubai Travel Wanderlust TravelBug UAE Trip Tour TravelBlog Red Dune Desert Safari[/caption]

There are several tour companies who are offering this trip. We've contacted Avangarde Tourism (Info@avantgardetourism.com) to help us in finding the best Red Dune Safari. They were very helpful even for last minute changes ( we've requested a change in the location of our pick-up and they were very helpful). The cost of this safari is: AED 175, but for summer, they are offering it at AED 140.

What to expect on a Desert Safari


Pick up from your Hotel - Location - Residence in Dubai & Sharjah


Pick by: 4x4 SUV Land Cruisers for the Adventure Safari & Camp


Dune Bashing and drive to reach the high Dune (with photo stop)


20-30 Minutes Dune Bashing


At the Camp:


Traditional welcome at camp with Arabic Tea, Coffee


Arabic Sweets & Fresh Fruits


Sheesha Facility


 Arabic Dress Photography


Camel Riding


Sand Boarding


Henna Painting


Unlimited Drinks


Buffet Dinner and Barbeque


Entertainment:


Belly Dance Show


Tanura Dance Entertainment


 

OTHER OPTIONS


As most itineraries, you can freely choose which one you want to do or which one you want to remove on your Dubai Trip. Also, feel free to explore the city. Dubai is a small enough city which can be easily accessible. There are a lot of things going on in very corner (aside from shopping malls).

Here are other things you can do:

Visiting Karama to find a diverse set of restaurants and try out some traditional menus from different countries. I don't normally suggest this to short term visitors (mostly for residents and long term ones), but if you are feeling adventurous and want to try local cuisines from Indonesia, Philippines, India, Sri Lanka and Singapore, Karama is the place for you.
Check out my blog post on the Hidden Gems in Karama.

[caption id="attachment_2752" align="aligncenter" width="800"]MyDubai Travel Wanderlust TravelBug UAE Trip Tour TravelBlog Karama Karama Dubai[/caption]

Riding the monorail or driving across the Palm Jumeirah Island. This island is famous world wide. A man made palm-shaped island offering high-end hospitality and retail. A monorail costs AED 25 for a back and forth ride and AED 15 for one way.

[caption id="attachment_2754" align="aligncenter" width="800"]MyDubai Travel Wanderlust TravelBug UAE Trip Tour TravelBlog The Palm Island The Palm, Atlantis[/caption]

Be mesmerized with the modern structures along Dubai Marina. If you love tall and modern (and crazy) architecture, this place is a must visit. You'll find the tallest residential tower in the world and also (not sure if this is the only one) a twisted building straight from the pages of inception. There are a lot of retail outlets here as well and cafe's for you to chill and people watch. If you fancy to do some boating, this is also a place for you to hire a yacht and cruise along the gulf.

[caption id="attachment_2755" align="aligncenter" width="800"]MyDubai Travel Wanderlust TravelBug UAE Trip Tour TravelBlog Marina Pier 7 Dubai Marina[/caption]

I am hoping that this blog will help you decide on where to go whenever you are planning on the short trip here in Dubai or if you are having a guest and you want to show them a quick round trip tour of this magnificent city. If you have other suggestions or questions just hit the comment space below and I'll make sure to get in touch with you.

 

Kenneth Surat logo travel blog blogger

Saint Adre de Sangonis: Gastronomic Experience in the South of France

I have been living in Dubai for almost nine years now, this means, for around 3,285 days, I have been surrounded with tall skyscrapers and moving metal boxes. I can't say that I don't like it, but there is something about the country side that feels close to my heart.

Imagine this, blue skies, a clear view of the horizon with cute petite houses, birds chirping and the smell of freshly baked breads across the street. A scene which makes you want to sing:

"Little town, it's a quiet village
Everyday like the one before
Little town full of little people
Waking up to say......


Bonjour!!!!!!!!!!"


Yes, I was referring to the opening number of Disney's Beauty and the Beast. Setting my feet in the South of France makes me feel like I was in that small village where Belle was walking on the way to the book shop.

[caption id="attachment_2710" align="aligncenter" width="800"]Saint Adre de Sangonis South of France travel blog travelbug blogger wanderlust food View From Our Balcony[/caption]

[caption id="attachment_2700" align="aligncenter" width="800"]Saint Adre de Sangonis South of France travel blog travelbug blogger wanderlust food The Town Center[/caption]

With around three hours train ride from Paris, Saint Andre De Sangonis is totally different from the city of lights. A place that is rarely visited by tourist that my presence there was known by the whole town. My friend told me that in their office, there were some talks of an Asian guy walking around town in the morning ----GUILTY! aha!

I visited my friends' house over the summer and we lived in their small and very lovely studio at an attic, a perfect location to see the whole town from above.

[caption id="attachment_2695" align="aligncenter" width="800"]Saint Adre de Sangonis South of France travel blog travelbug blogger wanderlust food Our Cute Little Studio[/caption]

[caption id="attachment_2686" align="aligncenter" width="800"]Saint Adre de Sangonis South of France travel blog travelbug blogger wanderlust food Getting a morning baguette at the neighborhood boulangerie[/caption]

[caption id="attachment_2690" align="aligncenter" width="800"]Saint Adre de Sangonis South of France travel blog travelbug blogger wanderlust food My beautiful friend Marjorie[/caption]

[caption id="attachment_2691" align="aligncenter" width="800"]Saint Adre de Sangonis South of France travel blog travelbug blogger wanderlust food Getting ready for some vineyard visit![/caption]

[caption id="attachment_2709" align="aligncenter" width="800"]Saint Adre de Sangonis South of France travel blog travelbug blogger wanderlust food This is how we dry our clothes! Backpacker's Laundry the South France Edtion[/caption]

I love how simple life can be. Starting the day with a morning baguette at the nearby boulangerie is like a dream. Visiting the vineyards and tasting wines seem just like an ordinary day.

Summer is always the most ideal season to visit the South of France, although compared to the rest of the country, the south can be too warm (but then again, who doesn't like some sun?).

[caption id="attachment_2688" align="aligncenter" width="800"]Saint Adre de Sangonis South of France travel blog travelbug blogger wanderlust food The Town Center[/caption]

[caption id="attachment_2694" align="aligncenter" width="800"]Saint Adre de Sangonis South of France travel blog travelbug blogger wanderlust food Looks like someone is really enjoying the view from the top.[/caption]

[caption id="attachment_2696" align="aligncenter" width="800"]Saint Adre de Sangonis South of France travel blog travelbug blogger wanderlust food My Friend Sebastien interviewing the owner of the Winery[/caption]

[caption id="attachment_2698" align="aligncenter" width="800"]Saint Adre de Sangonis South of France travel blog travelbug blogger wanderlust food Me with the owner of the Winery, Domaine de Familongue[/caption]

[caption id="attachment_2701" align="aligncenter" width="800"]Saint Adre de Sangonis South of France travel blog travelbug blogger wanderlust food Hooothoooot!! Nuff said![/caption]

One of the major things that I enjoyed during my stay in San Andre are the food! We ate simple yet we ate good.

True French cuisines. I ate and ate and ate! A simple dish made special, that's what I call it. I asked my friend to give me the names of the food we ate, and she gave me all French terms, NICE! Let me see if I can translate them all in English, or basically how I remembered them.

We normally start with a slice of cured dry pork sausage partnered with a foie gras or green olives and some appetizer wines. For a more hardcore French village men, an appetizer should be partnered with a Pastis (sort of an anise based liquor). After this, the main courses will be served which are, salads, assorted hams, sausages, steaks (any meat), potatoes and eggs, of course each meal should be partnered with wine, until the last course, which will be the dessert. Eating with the French at their home is such a journey. I loved every bit of it.

[caption id="attachment_2687" align="aligncenter" width="800"]Saint Adre de Sangonis South of France travel blog travelbug blogger wanderlust food Our appetizers! Foie Gras, Olives and Pastis[/caption]

[caption id="attachment_2702" align="aligncenter" width="800"]Saint Adre de Sangonis South of France travel blog travelbug blogger wanderlust food Salade Piemontaise: Pommes de terre, oeufs, thon, cornichons, mayonnaise. (Basically Egg and Tuna Salad)[/caption]

[caption id="attachment_2703" align="aligncenter" width="800"]Saint Adre de Sangonis South of France travel blog travelbug blogger wanderlust food Melon et Jambon Serrano[/caption]

[caption id="attachment_2704" align="aligncenter" width="800"]Saint Adre de Sangonis South of France travel blog travelbug blogger wanderlust food Melon et Jambon Serrano[/caption]

The Melon et Jambon Serrano was a surprise for me. I never thought that this kind of partnering existed. Popularly known as a summer treat, it is a combination of a salty Serrano Ham wrapped on a sweet melon slices. The saltiness combined with the sweetness really worked, refreshing and indeed tasty! Instantly became one of my favorites!

[caption id="attachment_2705" align="aligncenter" width="800"]Saint Adre de Sangonis South of France travel blog travelbug blogger wanderlust food Salade composee: Salade feuille de chene, tomates, fromage boursin ail et fines herbs, vinaigrette ( Salad with vinaigrette dressing)[/caption]

[caption id="attachment_2706" align="aligncenter" width="800"]Saint Adre de Sangonis South of France travel blog travelbug blogger wanderlust food Typical Salad partnered with Melon and Baguette.[/caption]

[caption id="attachment_2692" align="aligncenter" width="800"]Saint Adre de Sangonis South of France travel blog travelbug blogger wanderlust food Ham platter and Raclette Cheese[/caption]

[caption id="attachment_2693" align="aligncenter" width="800"]Saint Adre de Sangonis South of France travel blog travelbug blogger wanderlust food Assiette de charcuteri: jambon serrano, jambon blanc, fines tranches de saucisson sec and bacon. (S[/caption]

[caption id="attachment_2707" align="aligncenter" width="800"]Saint Adre de Sangonis South of France travel blog travelbug blogger wanderlust food Preparing the Raclette[/caption]

[caption id="attachment_2708" align="aligncenter" width="800"]Saint Adre de Sangonis South of France travel blog travelbug blogger wanderlust food RACLETTE!!!!!!!!!![/caption]

If the Melon and Ham is a dish popular during warm summer days, for winter, the Raclette is the star of the table. Although we had this on a summer dinner, I truly understand why this is a popular winter dish. The warm melted cheese on top of potatoes and ham creates like a blanket of comfort similar to having a fondue (although heavier).

I loved that I was able to taste food that I don't normally eat and to some extent felt that these food however simple they may looked like, still felt fancy for an Asian like me (of course, if you attempted to prepare these food here in Dubai, I can assure you that they can be very costly--arrgh I hate this fact, cause I am craving for these a lot) .

Whenever people asked me where I want to retire, I always say that I want to spend the rest of my non-working days, at the country side. This dream was truly inspired by my visit in Saint Andre de Sangonis.

After my quick stay in the South of France, I can say that I fell in love with this country more. As compared to Paris, this is the real France. Real people, real smiles and of course real gastronomic experiences.

If you happen to visit France aside from getting a dose of the Parisian Life, I would encourage you to head on to the train station, booked a ticket to the South! You will never regret every moment of it!

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