Friday, January 10, 2025

A Day Trip to Ninh Bình - Tam Coc River & Mua Caves, VIETNAM - iTASTE

#itaste #ninhbinh #vietnam A Day Trip to Ninh Bình - Tam Coc River & Mua Caves, VIETNAM - iTASTE Tam Coc River https://www.google.com/maps/place/Tam+Coc+-+Bich+Dong/@20.216648,105.9172788,15z/data=!4m10!1m2!2m1!1stam+coc+river!3m6!1s0x31367a597a9869a5:0x151f502fd648df0a!8m2!3d20.2163242!4d105.9374664!15sCg10YW0gY29jIHJpdmVyWg8iDXRhbSBjb2Mgcml2ZXKSAQtzY2VuaWNfc3BvdJoBI0NoWkRTVWhOTUc5blMwVkpRMEZuU1VONGRrMTVUR1JSRUFF4AEA-gEECBgQMA!16s%2Fg%2F11ckqrc1zx?entry=ttu&g_ep=EgoyMDI1MDEwOC4wIKXMDSoASAFQAw%3D%3D Mua Caves https://www.google.com/maps/place/Hang+M%C3%BAa+(Mua+Caves)/@20.2305111,105.9376011,17z/data=!4m17!1m10!3m9!1s0x31367b1afb63cf07:0x1d92c80e49b2d6a3!2sHang+M%C3%BAa+(Mua+Caves)!8m2!3d20.2305111!4d105.9376011!10e5!14m1!1BCgIgAQ!16s%2Fg%2F11kjjtn70r!3m5!1s0x31367b1afb63cf07:0x1d92c80e49b2d6a3!8m2!3d20.2305111!4d105.9376011!16s%2Fg%2F11kjjtn70r?entry=ttu&g_ep=EgoyMDI1MDEwOC4wIKXMDSoASAFQAw%3D%3D A Day Trip to Ninh Binh: A Fun and Scenic Adventure If you’re in Hanoi and have a day to spare, Ninh Binh is the perfect getaway. It’s like stepping into a postcard with its green fields, majestic mountains, and peaceful rivers. Here’s how my day went: I booked this trip through a travel agent (TripAdvisor or Booking.com—I can’t remember exactly, but I blame my bad memory). They picked us up from our hotel in Hanoi’s Old Quarter at 7:30 AM in a comfy van, collecting a few more sleepy faces along the way. The Snack Stop Our first stop? Breakfast, of course! I tried a tuna banh mi and coconut coffee. Let me tell you, coconut coffee is a game-changer. Stop #1: Hoa Lu Ancient Temples We visited the Hoa Lu temples of the Dinh and Le dynasties. It was a crash course on Vietnamese kings and temples. History, check!

Lunch Like a King Next, we hit Ninh Binh town for a buffet lunch. Veg, non-veg, desserts—you name it, they had it. Let’s say I left the table very happy. Stop #2: Tam Coc Boat Ride After lunch, it was time for our boat ride in the Tam Coc River. With 2 people per boat, the ride was slow-moving through the lush green scenery of agricultural fields, mountains, and caves. The view was just amazing and it just mesmerized me !!!! The ride was for 1 to 1.5 hours and I truly loved it. The boar riders expect a tip of about 100,000 vnd ( Vietnam dong) you could go with 50,000 to 100,000 vnd for 1 person. So I gave 200,000 vnd since our boat rider was an old lady.










                                        
Stop #3: Mua Caves and the Big Climb The van took us to Mua Caves. If you’re feeling adventurous, climb 500 steps to reach the top for jaw-dropping views of the Tam Coc River. The climb is no joke—some steps are slippery, and the peak near the dragon is a bit risky, especially when it’s crowded. Not into climbing? No problem. There’s a massive lily pond and water-filled caves to explore too.





Heading Back We had a quick snack break on the way back and reached Hanoi by
7:30 or 8 PM. Cost and Tips The entire day cost just ₹3,500 (~$41), covering travel, sightseeing tickets, and lunch. Tips for the boat rower and van driver aren’t included. Pro Tip If you have more time, consider staying in Ninh Binh. There are lovely hotels near the Tam Coc River and Mua Caves. In short: If you’re in Hanoi, don’t miss this trip! It’s a day full of fun, food, and fabulous views. ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

                             

Thursday, December 26, 2024

கரூர் அருகில், தங்கம் மண்பாணை சமையல் விருந்து - iTASTE

#itaste #thangammanpaanaisamayal #karur கரூர் அருகில், தங்கம் மண்பாணை சமையல் விருந்து - iTASTE Google Maps Location; https://www.google.com/maps/place/thangam+manpanai+samayal/@10.8522134,77.9799329,188m/data=!3m2!1e3!4b1!4m6!3m5!1s0x3baa27004d0ce7eb:0xac0d55d26587e49f!8m2!3d10.8522121!4d77.9805766!16s%2Fg%2F11w4sflgwd?entry=ttu&g_ep=EgoyMDI0MTIxMS4wIKXMDSoASAFQAw%3D%3D
A small eatery on the Karur to Dindigul highway is big on flavors. Run by two amazing women who cook everything themselves, this cozy spot serves breakfast, lunch, and dinner, all packed with home-cooked goodness. I stopped by for lunch, hoping for biryani (spoiler: it wasn’t available that day). Instead, I tried their non-veg meals, mutton, country chicken uppukari, kudal fry, and fish fry. Here’s the lowdown:
Country Chicken Uppu Kari: The absolute star of the show—don’t miss it! Fish Fry: Perfectly spiced and cooked, an absolute winner. Kudal Fry: Delicious and pairs perfectly with rice. Mutton: Just okay, but not everything can be a star. The gravies? Chicken and Mutton Gravies: Decent. Fish Kulambu: A bit better and worth trying. Overall, it’s a simple, tasty, home-cooked meal that’s perfect for hungry travelers (or even if you’re not that hungry). If you’re on this stretch of the highway, stop by and treat yourself. You won’t regret it! prices- mutton - 200/ plate country chicken dishes - 200/plate fish fry - 100/piece ----------------------------------------------------------------------------

                         

Thursday, December 19, 2024

Paradise Found: Cruising the Stunning Waters of Cat Ba Island, Vietnam ...

#itaste #veneziacruises #vietnam Paradise Found: Cruising the Stunning Waters of Cat Ba Island, Vietnam 🌊🏝️ - iTASTE Cat Ba Chronicles: Kayaks, Spring Rolls, and Snake Wine Adventures Cat Ba is a chill little island hanging out in the northeastern corner of Vietnam, while its popular sibling, Ha Long Bay, hogs all the attention. Both spots are ridiculously pretty, but Cat Ba won my heart because it’s less crowded – fewer people = more zen. We hopped on a Venezia Cruise for a 2-day, 1-night extravaganza. They’ve got more packages than a courier service – day trips, 3-day tours, stays in Cat Ba town or village – you name it. If you’re curious, hit up their website: veneziacruises.com (but finish reading this masterpiece first). The journey started in Hanoi’s Old Quarter, where a bus scooped us up for the 4-hour road-and-ferry combo trip to Cat Ba. By 12:30 PM, we were on the cruise, pretending to be fancy. Lunch was a hearty spread with beef stew, fish fry, and a bunch of other dishes that tasted better than they looked – and trust me, that’s a compliment. After eating enough to sink the boat, it was adventure time.





Kayaking: Armed with paddles and hope, we hit the waters. The guide told us where to go, but let’s be honest, we just floated around like confused ducks. Swimming: Because we’re fancy ducks who also swim.
By 5:30 PM, it was time for a Vietnamese MasterChef class. We learned to roll rice paper spring rolls that were so good, I briefly considered opening a spring roll shop back home.


The evening was pure magic – rooftop views, a killer sunset, and then dinner featuring pork, prawns, and other Vietnamese dishes that pleased everyone from US to Aussies to Europeans to us desi foodies. Day 2 Adventures: Breakfast was carb heaven with bread, noodles, eggs, and bacon. Then we cruised to Viet Hai village, a chill little spot transitioning from farming to tourism. Some folks got all sporty and cycled there. I, on the other hand, chose the battery car because
#Efficiency. In the village, we tried snake wine (spicy!), dipped our toes in a fish spa (ticklish!), and took a gazillion pictures because, well, Instagram.


Back on the cruise, we wrapped things up with lunch before heading back to Hanoi, where we were dropped off at our hotel by 6 PM, tired but very happy campers. The Verdict: This trip was awesome. The views? Epic. The food? Delicious. The memories? Unforgettable. Cost: Just $130 per person, including pickup and drop-off. Totally worth it. Go book it already! ------------------------------------------------------------

                           

Saturday, November 16, 2024

400 ரூபாய்க்கு Non-Veg விருந்து - கரூரில் மாப்பிள்ளை 🐐கிடா விருந்து சாப்...

#itaste #karur #mapillaikidavirunthu 400 ரூபாய்க்கு Non-Veg விருந்து - கரூரில் மாப்பிள்ளை கிடா விருந்து சாப்பாடு - iTASTE * Owner Mobile - 09159046060 *Sundays are off - Kindly call the hotel before you go. Maps; https://www.google.com/maps/place/Mappillai+Mess/@10.9646694,78.0607622,17z/data=!3m1!4b1!4m6!3m5!1s0x3baa2fc4255a4905:0x651707865e1ab034!8m2!3d10.9646694!4d78.0633371!16s%2Fg%2F11h88z8gd3?entry=ttu&g_ep=EgoyMDI0MTExMy4xIKXMDSoASAFQAw%3D%3D

10+ Non-Veg Delights in Karur - Mapillai Kida Virunthu Saapadu Looking for a hearty and delicious meal? Head to Mapillai Kida Virunthu Saapadu in Karur town! For just ₹400, you can enjoy a lavish non-veg combo featuring over 10 dishes, unlimited rice, and kulambu. Don’t like combos? No worries! You can also opt for biryani or meals with one non-veg dish. What’s on the ₹400 Combo Menu?
Mutton Biryani Mutton Blood Poriyal Chicken Uppu Kari Mutton Head Curry Country Chicken Chettinad Mutton Intestine Mutton Boneless Curry Egg Masala Fish Fry Chicken Lollipop White Rice with Chicken Kulambu, Mutton Kulambu, Fish Kulambu Rasam and Curd Desserts: Payasam & Ice Cream

Sounds like a feast, right? The flavors are amazing, though many dishes share a similar taste profile. A little variety in seasoning could take the experience to the next level! Verdict: A must-try spot for non-veg food lovers. Don’t miss out on this incredible feast in Karur! 📍 Location: Karur Town --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Tuesday, October 29, 2024

கன்னிவாடி ஆட்டுச்சந்தை கறி சாப்பாடு - கூட்டத்திலும் மட்டன் கறி ஒரு புடி ...

கன்னிவாடி ஆட்டுச்சந்தை கறி சாப்பாடு - கூட்டத்திலும் மட்டன் கறி ஒரு புடி - i TASTE Kannivadi Santhai Kari sapadu ( Thursday Only ) Google Maps Location : https://www.google.com/maps/place/10%C2%B048'48.1%22N+77%C2%B047'02.1%22E/@10.813366,77.7813301,17z/data=!3m1!4b1!4m4!3m3!8m2!3d10.813366!4d77.783905?hl=en-IN&entry=ttu&g_ep=EgoyMDI0MTAyMy4wIKXMDSoASAFQAw%3D%3D Owner Mobile; +91 97863 19679
In the heart of a bustling goat market that springs to life only once a week, lies a tiny eatery that’s open exclusively on market days. Places like this are rare finds, and for a true food lover, they're nothing short of gems.
My journey to Kannivadi, near Dharapuram in Tamil Nadu's Tirupur district, began on a Thursday afternoon. The market runs from around 3 p.m. to 7 p.m., though times can shift, so it’s wise to call ahead and confirm the eatery's hours. As I arrived, the marketplace was already brimming with activity—traders and buyers flocking to haggle, goats bleating amid the festive Diwali rush, and eager patrons streaming into this modest eatery.

Amid the hustle, I managed to find a spot. But with dishes flying off the stove, I soon realized I was late to the feast. Most of the offerings were gone; what remained was piping hot rice, rich mutton curry, and a bold combination of mutton head and intestines. The mutton curry alone was worth the trip—a delicious, tender indulgence that tasted like heaven, even if the portion felt small for its 100-rupee price tag. The head-and-intestine mix was an acquired taste; compared to the mutton curry, it was no contest.


Chatting with the owner, who’s been running the place with his family for over 30 years, he shared news of the market’s relocation to a new site nearby, where they’d also be moving. Next time, I’ll arrive earlier to avoid the crowds and savor every dish before it disappears. And if you’re planning a family outing, remember that this place may not be the most family-friendly destination. But if you're up for adventure and rustic flavors, you won't want to miss this hidden gem at the goat market. -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

                              

Tuesday, October 22, 2024

பரமத்தி வேலூரில் இப்படி ஒரு ஹோட்டலா - EggStickaa & Star Burma Atho - i T...

#itaste #eggstickaa #starburmahotel பரமத்தி வேலூரில் இப்படி ஒரு ஹோட்டலா - EggStickaa & Star Burma Atho - i TASTE Google Maps Location; https://www.google.com/maps/place/RAMIYAM/@11.1138651,78.0131671,20z/data=!4m6!3m5!1s0x3babd55e500e2f9b:0x663f3ba5bad48a05!8m2!3d11.1139817!4d78.0132442!16s%2Fg%2F11y7b29cfj?entry=ttu&g_ep=EgoyMDI0MTAxNi4wIKXMDSoASAFQAw%3D%3D An eatery like this in Paramathi Velur is astonishing… if you are looking for Burmese food or egg stick varieties then this is the place for you.


We had a variety of food items both from the Burmese and egg stickaa menus and the list goes such as egg stickaa Pallipalayam, madras chicken kuthu pav burger, masala egg, chicken wrap, chicken baanga, peri peri chicken rice bowl, French fries,
Orio milkshake, cranberry mojito, watermelon juice..
All the dishes tasted excellent and for a small town like Paramathi Velur, this eatery is a boon for people who want to try out burma food or egg stick varieties.





The overprice for the food was 1214/- ---------------------------------------------------------------

                           

Friday, October 18, 2024

கரூர் கந்தவிலாஸின் மண்பானை சமையல் விருந்து - iTASTE

#itaste #karurkandhavilas #karur கரூர் கந்தவிலாஸின் மண்பானை சமையல் விருந்து - iTASTE Google Maps Location; google.com/maps/place/Sree+Kandha+Vilas/@10.8869908,78.0158153,223m/data=!3m1!1e3!4m6!3m5!1s0x3baa273a4fd3eda7:0xa0e13dd7c2145df7!8m2!3d10.8873094!4d78.0167374!16s%2Fg%2F11l2kcv92y?entry=ttu&g_ep=EgoyMDI0MTAxNS4wIKXMDSoASAFQAw%3D%3D Looking for a foodie pitstop on the Karur-Dindigul highway? Look no further than Karur Kandha Vilas, where traditional clay pot cooking meets tastebud magic! This humble spot serves flavors so good that you'll want to make it your second home.
With a no-frills ambiance and a menu packed with heavy hitters like biryani, meals, mutton fry, mutton intestine, country chicken, and fish fry—this place is the spot for hungry souls on the go. I tackled the mutton fry; let me tell you, it was a pepper-packed punch of flavor! This is the MVP of the menu, folks. If you skip it, you’re missing out on greatness.
The country chicken uppu kari? It's a fiery dance of dry red chilies and juicy, tender chicken. And the para fish? Deep-fried, crispy on the outside, melt-in-your-mouth soft inside, with masala that’ll make you do a happy food dance.

Vegetarians, uh, sorry! This place caters to the carnivore crowd. But for all you meat lovers, it's a must-visit as you zoom down the highway! You won't regret pulling over! ---------------------------------------------------------

                          

Wednesday, October 9, 2024

மட்டன் குண்சுமணி, சிக்கன் புல்லெட் சிங்காரி, சட்டி சோறு | கரூர்- நாமக்கல...

#itaste #rkmess #karur மட்டன் குண்சுமணி, சிக்கன் புல்லெட் சிங்காரி, சட்டி சோறு | கரூர்- நாமக்கல் ஹைவேயில் அசத்தல் ஹோட்டல் Google Maps Location; https://www.google.com/maps/place/New+RK+Mess+%26+Restaurant+A%2Fc/@11.0908644,77.9463183,12z/data=!4m10!1m2!2m1!1srk+mess!3m6!1s0x3baa2d99e49a6dd5:0xbda74adb9c1fc979!8m2!3d11.0448524!4d78.056352!15sCgdyayBtZXNzWgkiB3JrIG1lc3OSAQVob3RlbJoBI0NoWkRTVWhOTUc5blMwVkpRMEZuU1VOSWNGQkhXbFpSRUFF4AEA!16s%2Fg%2F11ln9cq4yh?entry=ttu&g_ep=EgoyMDI0MTAwNS4yIKXMDSoASAFQAw%3D%3D If you're cruising down the Karur-Namakkal highway and spot a fleet of parked cars and a snazzy-looking building, you've found it—RK Mess. This place doesn’t just call your name, it yells it with the smell of incredible food! But don’t worry, the cars and the stylish exterior will grab your attention first. Step inside, and the vibe will pull you in just like the food. Speaking of which—oh boy, the food. I dove headfirst into a spread that would make a king blush: chicken biryani, mutton satti soru, mutton kunsumani, nallampatti varuval, aasari varuval, chicken bullet chingari, tandoori roti, dal fry, mushroom pepper fry, and—wait for it—shahi tukra for dessert.
The chicken biryani? Packed with tender chicken and subtle spices, it felt like a warm hug from the inside. The satti soru—a beautiful mess of rice, mutton curry, and spices—was tasty but could’ve gone that extra mile.
But let’s talk about the star of the show: mutton kunsumani. Wow. It’s the kind of dish that makes you dream of dumping it on plain white rice and calling it a day. The nallampatti and aasari varuval were good too, but they knew better than to steal the spotlight from the kunsumani.


And just when I thought I couldn’t eat anymore, along came shahi tukra—my sweet, sweet undoing. It was the grand finale of this fabulous feast.
Pro tip: the vibe here is next-level during dinner, so don't miss out! And even if you’re not hungry, swing by for a cup of their bakery-filter coffee—it’s enough to brighten your day. Oh, and those evening snacks? Please don’t leave without trying them, or you’ll kick yourself the entire way home. So, what are you waiting for? RK Mess is calling, and trust me, you want to answer! price list- All prices in INR Manpaanai nallampatti nattu kozhi varuval - 265/- Chicken biryani - 200/- Asari chicken - 250/- Bullet ciningari - 260/- Butter roti - 35/- Dal fry - 160/- Mushroom pepperfry - 190/- Mutton kunsumani (rk spl) - 320/- Ammayi mutton satti soru - 250/- Mojito - 95/- Goli Soda - 35/- Shahi Tukra - 120/- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------