World on Your Plate: 9 Must Try Culinary Experiences This Festive Season – News18

Planning a quick getaway in the festive months of October and November? Make your vacation deliciously special at some of the best vacation spots across the globe.

Bhutan

If you love the hills and want a break from the fast pace of life, Bhutan has just the right amount of peace and quiet for you. Escape into nature in the sublime Punakha Valley and experience unique local culinary practices. Tucked away in this serene valley on the banks of Mo Chhu river are Pemako Punakha’s luxurious tented villas that offer a tranquil space to begin your journey to self-discovery. At Alchemy House, indulge in authentic Bhutanese cuisine that will leave you wanting more, from the savoury Ema Datshi to the sweet Hoentay dumplings. Enjoy the chef’s specialties in a personalised dining experience at Sura.

Insider’s Tip:  Engage in the Chimi Lhakhang Hike or the Jilijang Lhakhang Hike in the natural setting of the Punakha Valley for a glimpse into Bhutanese culture and breathtaking Himalayan landscape.

Oman

Looking for a destination with a spectacular beachfront and dramatic scenery? Muscat is the ideal short-haul solution for you. Witness the beauty of both, the Hajar Mountains and the Gulf of Oman, at the resort complex of Shangri-La Muscat. For a fine-dining affair like no other, head to Aangan, where Michelin Star Chef Rohit Ghai’s specially curated five-course menu will satiate your taste buds. If your palate demands more, opt for any of the other  13 restaurants on the property to fulfil your gastronomical desires.

Insider’s Tip: This October, the second edition of the Taste of Shangri-La food festival is all set to offer culinary indulgence with a variety of expertly crafted set menus  at the property’s five specialty restaurants.

Thailand

In The Land of Smiles, along with enjoying the beaches and vibrant culture, indulge in exquisite Thai cuisine. Bite into Khanom Krok, traditional coconut rice pancakes cooked in a special  pan or try the Pumpkin Sankaya, made with sweetened coconut milk and egg custard steamed inside a hollow pumpkin. To find your own slice of paradise, retreat to the luxurious Phulay Bay, the world’s first  Ritz-Carlton Reserve property, where you can dine by the beach or surrounded by thousand flickering lights at Sala Srichan.

Insider’s Tip: If you plan to travel on 23 November, you can enjoy a  six-course set dinner at Lae Lay crafted by Michelin-starred Chef Deepankar Khosla of HAŌMA, Bangkok and Chef Christian.

Ras Al Khaimah

Exhilarating water sports, region’s largest floating water park and tantalising food options, Ras Al Khaimah has it all. At the Al Marjan Island beach, you can sit back and relax in the soft sand, play a game of volleyball, or go for a swim in the clear water. For an extraordinary experience head over to Mövenpick Resort Al Marjan Island to sample their flavourful signature ice-creams and a delectable brunch at Boons.

Insider’s Tip: Revel in house beats and organic delights at the upcoming Sound & Sand Festival at Ula, the boho-chic restaurant by the beach.

Seychelles

A multi–cultural hotpot, the island country of Seychelles, is known for its white sandy beaches and clear waters of the Indian Ocean. Seychellois Creole cuisine is a fusion of African, Chinese, Indian, and French influences. Savour exotic fruit chutneys to spicy curries, and delectable desserts like the almond nougat, caramelised papaya or the sweet ladob made of sweet potato or ripe bananas with coconut milk, nutmeg and vanilla.

Insider’s Tip: Apart from water-based activities like snorkelling or diving, Seychelles has striking hiking trails through various national parks. Visit the Morne Seychellois National Park and hike to the country’s highest peak with rewarding views of Mahé and surrounding islands .

Sri Lanka

Unwind in the lush tropical setting of Sri Lanka with its palm-fringed beaches and cool lagoon waters. Explore exotic cuisine with fresh, locally sourced ingredients that do not disappoint like the island favourites kiribath and fiery sambol, both coconut dishes. You can dig into family-style sharing platters, tapas or even BBQ varieties at the boutique collection of Teardrop Hotels set amidst an array of locations across the country.

Insider’s Tip: At the Teardrop Lunuganga in Bentota, don’t miss out on the guided garden tour that showcases celebrated Sri-Lankan architect Geoffrey Bawa’s iconic style, from elements of Japanese garden art to English landscaping.

Vietnam

Vietnam not only has charming culture, but a selection of unique dining experiences as well. Enjoy classical Vietnamese desserts like the Bánh Khoai Môn Nướng, traditional grilled taro cake with pandan cream sauce and Bánh Chuối Hấp, banana steamed cake with coconut cream. If you favour an immersive experience, find yourself at The Anam, where you can savour international delicacies at The Indochine or traditional Vietnamese  cuisine at the Lang Viet.

Insider’s Tip: At The Anam Cam Rahn, you can enjoy some home-style cooking every Friday during Mama’s Cooking session, where staff member’s mothers whip-up centuries old recipes and share their secret recipes.

Maldives

A rustic island retreat on an idyllic Maldivian atoll is the place to be for a fun getaway. Get ready to be mesmerised by the sheer allure of the seascape, as you are surrounded by the turquoise waters of the lagoon. At Medhufushi Island Resort, you can embark on a culinary adventure at Alfresco Restaurant, located in an iconic pyramid-shaped over-water pavilion. Choose from special dinner menus featuring the chef’s signature dishes to vegetarian specialties like the spinach and ricotta tortellini with wine cream sauce, all the while soaking in a breathtaking view.

Insider’s Tip: Spend some time exploring the underwater life at The Werner Lau Diving Centre led by professionals.

Israel

With a deep history, various sites of religious significance and a vibrant culinary culture, Israel is worth travelling to. Your trip to this unique country is incomplete without trying some authentic, fresh hummus with traditional pita bread, sweet kanafeh and savoury burekas. Enjoy a seasonal feast at the farm-to-table restaurant Havat Rom in northern Israel or grab a quick coffee and some Dvir chocolates at Cafe Otef Re’im in Tel Aviv’s Florentin neighbourhood.

Insider’s Tip: When in the vegan capital of the world, Tel Aviv, hit up restaurants like the plant-based Dosa Bar and the garden courtyard of Saffe.