Travel Review: Edinburgh

"To die in a pub is my dearest plan with my mouth to the tap as close as I can.
Then the angels would say when the singing began 'Oh Lord please show mercy on this boozy man'"

Review: If you like your castles, if you like your war history, if you like your whiskey, then Edinburgh, and by association Scotland, is the place you must go. This beautiful small town on north-eastern shores of Britain gives you a perfect introduction to Scotland. Great Britain might be a surviving union but it's definitely not one country. Scotland is a country that stands on it's own and Scotts are proud people of a proud nation. Even though Edinburgh Castle is its most famous landmark, Edinburgh has plenty other sights and sounds to keep you entertained for few days. And if you have time, a visit north to the Highlands (Caledonia) is highly recommended. It will reveal another country with it's majestic beauty spotted with mountains, lochs, castles and scotch distilleries!

Photo Album: http://www.flickr.com/photos/adigupta/sets/72157629085018907/

Travel Review: Amsterdam

 

Review: Amsterdam amuses me as a city. Because you rarely see cultural landmarks steeped in history standing comfortably next to "coffee" shops and the ever-encroaching windows of a Red Light District. For a first time visitor who was interested in both sides of this historic city, it was surreal feeling. As you walk around the famous Dam square admiring the New Jewish Church and City Center, the "Coffee Shops" and the Red Light District reveal themselves. Whether you want to indulge yourself in the sins or not of this "Sin City", a visit to this part of the town is a must. The perception of Amsterdam been a party city may stem from legalization of weed and prostitution but one has to go to this small western European city to understand it's historic past and it's battle with Nazi regime during the reign of the Third Reich. Churches and museums like Anne Frank House littered across the city are waiting to tell you a story of Amsterdam that you've perhaps never heard before!

Photo Album: http://www.flickr.com/photos/adigupta/sets/72157629085018907/

Food and Wine Reviews for Feburary 2012

Turkish Eggs @ Kopapa

Kopapa <FAVORITES>  Have been meaning to try this place for ages and finally managed (It takes almost a week advance reservation for weekends) on a chilly Feb Sunday afternoon! But the wait was well worth it. On the corner of the hip Seven Dial block, this place is perfect for Sunday brunch on a cold day. The Turkish Eggs were definitely a standout and my Bloody Mary didn't disappoint at all.

Tayyabs <FAVORITES>  This is the "Indian" food that London is famous for. Brick Lane rules but Indian food elsewhere in London disappoints! The Lassi, Lamb Seekh Kebab and Dry Meat are heavenly. I'll be going here many more times!

 

Cha Cha Moon -  Tucked away in one of the corners of the popular Carnaby Street and Kingly Street, Cha Cha Moon is  an interesting place to get some good Singaporean street food. It's always packed. But the service is quick & good so you hopefully wouldn't have to wait for long.

Food and Wine Reviews for January 2012

My Old Dutch Pancake House <FAVORITES> Gem in the Chelsea area on Kings Road between South Ken and Sloane Square. If you are craving pancakes on a Sunday morning, do check out this place!

Giraffe- <FAVORITES> Walked into this place waiting for table at the more popular Barafina across the road. It turned out to be a fantastic find for a casual night out. Go there on a Friday/Saturday night to have a relax comfortable dinner on the ground floor or have a chill evening with your friends in the bar lounge on the first floor.

NOPI - Popular restaurant off the Regent Street. Needs reservations well ahead off time.

Saigon Saigon - In an attempt to try something offbeat, I walked into Saigon Saigon near Ravenscourt Park Station with a friend. For a quite and low-key (may I say a bit rundown) market, it is a ,surprisingly, popular restaurant with a busy Tuesday night. From what I found out, it has decent food, big menu but am sure London serves better Vietnamese food.

Bird Thai (Amsterdam) <FAVORITES> I had no idea that Dutch have a Thai history. The fact that the most popular restaurant mentioned in the city's tourism guide is Thai restaurant says it all. But having said Bird doesn't disappoint. Tucked away in the Red Light District (isn't everything in Amserdam ?) it serves world-class Thai food. Definite must when you visiting Amsterdam!

Grape of the Month Feburary 2012: Petie Arvine

 

Grape: Petie Arvine

Wine: Grioud Petite Arvine 2009

Tasting Notes: Best grape from Switzerland

Travel Review: Paris

Review: What can I say about Paris that hasn't been already said! But what does one do when you are going to Paree for the very first time and are there for only 6-7 hours ? This was my predicament and this is my conclusion. Rolling into Paris in Eurostar is not a very welcoming sight. Graffiti covered stations, shut industrial warehouses and ghettos welcome you. You are definitely not thinking of Renaissance then. But as with any great city, you need to immerse yourself in it before you make a judgement and so it is with Paris. A bus ride from Gare Du Nord to Arc de Triomphe I saw her come alive. A must Eiffel Tower tour (please pre-book it and skip the line) reveals breathtaking views of every corner of Paris and ,if you are lucky with your tour guide, illuminates you with history of Eiffel Tower, World Fair of 1889 (Exposition Universelle) and Paris. Take the ferry down Seine or metro to Notre Dame to have a walk about the famous Latin Quarters. With Notre Dame Cathedral, Lourve Museum, Pont des Arts, Tuileries Garden, Saint-Sulpice, Luxembourg Gardens and more all walking distance there is plenty to see and absorb. Take a break and relax yourself in one of the many restaurants and wine bars hidden all over the Latin Quarters. If you have some more time head to Opera or Sacré-Cœur Basilica!

Photo Album: http://www.flickr.com/photos/adigupta/sets/72157627597909191/

Travel Review: Munich

Review: I think Germans get a very unfair rap for being cold and serious. Oktoberfest crowd and carnival was anything but that. It was one of the most welcoming and warm crowd in spite of the carnival teeming with people and plenty of beer flowing. Contrary to general perception, Oktoberfest Carnival is not just gigantic beer tents. With German markets selling knick knacks, live music, plenty of food to indulge and kick-ass amusement rides (bumper cars!!!), it is an complete family affair and has something for everyone. Oktoberfest fever catches you the moment you step out of the train or the flight & buying a Oktoberfest hat / costume is perfect way to blend in :) Bottom line, if you like your beer and if you like to party, Oktoberfest is a definite must once in your life.

Photo Album: http://www.flickr.com/photos/adigupta/sets/72157627599747077/

Travel Review: Montreux

Review: Montreux is a quiet resort town on the eastern shores of Lake Geneva. If you are arriving from Geneva, you have the chance to take a beautiful drive to Montreux through the hills and vineyards of Southern Switzerland along Lake Geneva by-passing the cities of Nyon, Morges and Laussane. Beside the striking beauty of blue waters of Lake Geneva and the snow covered Alps in the background, Montreux gives you a chance to visit the historic Château de Chillon. Being driving distance from Gstaad, Inter Laken and Jungfrau, Montreux provides a great lodging alternative to more popular destinations preferred, and my I say crowded, by the vacation tours!

Photo Album:http://www.flickr.com/photos/adigupta/sets/72157626799878839/

Food and Wine Reviews for April - December 2011

Thanks to my move to London, I was not able to write and post a monthly review for this section. But luckily I was able to visit and dine at multiple places during my 9-month stay in London. Below are reviews of some of the places I've been to in London since March 2011.

Megan's Cafe, Kings Road, London

 

Vagabond Wines - <FAVORITES> Local wine haunt. Lovely hosts serving a wide variety of grapes and massive selection of wines. With wine dispensing machines in place, you can taste samples of multiple wines or have a glass (or bottle) full of your favorite wine. Also, the special events are always a blast with like-minded wine enthusiasts, who want a mid-week night out, make for a fun night with great wines and charcuterie.

Del'Aziz - <FAVORITES> Love this place! Awesome food and great Moroccan Mint Team. Have already been here twice in first 3 days in London. Big help during my property search due to wi-fi connection. Actually sitting at Del Aziz and writing this review!

Megan's - <FAVORITES> Cosy eatery in the Fulham and Chelsea neighborhood. Go there for brunch on a weekend and if available, head downstairs to the garden sitting.

 

Altitude 360 - Definitely have great 360 degree views of London but the brunch buffet is nothing to write home about. Not worth the full price of £107+

Brumus - Really nice bar and restaurant for an elegant evening at Haymarket Hotel.

LVPO - <FAVORITES> Great find in Soho. It's really popular and has line around the corner on weekend nights so get there early. Multi-level bar/club/lounge to get lost and party!

Vinopolis - <FAVORITES> A wine museum!!! Great place to go spend an evening exploring the world of wine. Highly recommended if you have time and are a wine enthusiast. Located in a very busy and chic Borough Market neighborhood.

 

Dishoom - Went there for the Restaurant festival week but was an okay visit. Perhaps will make another visit giving it a benefit of doubt of having an off day since I have heard so much good reviews about it!

Morito - <FAVORITES> Great tapas place in casual setting (very Barcelona like) in the hip Exmouth Market. Reservation is highly recommended.

Planet of the Grapes-  Lovely wine bar tucked away in Bow street near Bank and Mansion House. It boasts of huge and impressive list of wines to purchase (and to drink for an additional surcharge of £10). Basement sitting area makes for cosy evening. The food menu leaves much to be desired. But if you are just looking to have and purchase some wine, it's definitely recommended.

Hyde Park Winter Wonderland -  <FAVORITES> Hyde Park hosts Annual Winter Wonderland in the heart of the City and brings the warm festive glow to London. It's perfect oasis just off the madness of Knightsbridge to capture the the mood of season in the month of December. With German market, Skating Rink, Circus and plenty of amusement rides, it has something for everyone !!!

Grape of the Month December 2011: Gropello

 

Grape: Gropello

Wine: Garda Classico Gropello 2007

Tasting Notes:

Food and Wine Reviews for March 2011

Starting this month, I am adding a new section to my blog where I would post reviews of the restaurants/places I’ve visited over the last month. These will obviously go on the google maps but this a way to consolidate all the reviews for every month.

Bar Boulud, New York City

Bar Boulud - <FAVORITES> Casual bistro by Michelin 3-star restaurateur Daniel Boulud lives up to its name and quality. Par excellence service, fantastic wine selection and amazing French food.

Eataly - <FAVORITES> If you love cheese, if you love bread, if you love chocolates, if you love meat, if you love wine; In short, if you love Italy, this is the place for you! My only regret is that I found it right at fag end of my New York stay. Thanks Richa Di for the farewell dinner and introducing me to this gem :) And they are adding a new rooftop beer garden this summer!!!

Cacio e Vino - If you are searching for lost Sicilian flavor, you will definitely find it here. Another gem to try exotic grapes from Southern Italy. Try the Cerasuolo di Vittoria doc '07 and Tancredi '05.

Birch Coffee - Another addition to ever-growing list of niche coffee shops in NY. Also, has wine, beer and small snacks on its menu.

Caracas Arepa Bar - <FAVORITES> The best Arepas in the city. The Reina Pepiada arepa and Cachapa are the best things on the menu. If not having wine or beer, Papelón con limón is a must drink with the food.

Cafe Mogador - <FAVORITES> Fantastic place for wknd brunch. Really popular and gets busy. Got to have the lamb chops!!! Visited again for dinner this month and got equally fabulous food. Great wine selection, love the merguez and the Moroccan Mint Tea is heavenly!!

Smartphone OS Comparison

iPhone still remains the popular choice amongst smartphone users but with new phones running on Android OS flooding the market and RIM fighting to retain BlackBerry’s market share, Apple definitely doesn’t have a monopoly anymore & knows that it is in a foot race with its competitors. Below is a look at how these 3 rivals pit against each other as of date.

Category	Android	Blackberry	iPhone	Notes
Typing - High usage for email and text	3	1	2	Blackberry definitely has a advantage here if you are frequently using your phone to reply to emails. Also, texting and messaging. On touch screen, iPhone keyboard is slightly easier to use but like with everything Android OS every day a new phone comes with improved feature.
Phone Design - Size, Sleek etc	2	3	1	Hands down iPhone.
Qwerty Keyboard	2	1	2	Blackberry
Browsing	2	3	1	iPhone again has the lead here but the new phones on Android are now comparable. BB's browsing is msotly non existent
Notes / Tasks	1	1	1	All hardwares have some notes / tasks application. I use google calendar also.
Connectivity	2	1	3	Blackberry wins here because of the added BBM feature, which is it's USP. But only today I read that RIM has given in and would provide BBM to Android and it's already in works for iPhone also. Also, iPhone calling still sucks though new users of Verizon have given good reviews!
Social Media - FB etc	1	2	1	Both iPhone and Android OS have apps for almost all the popular social media sites So they fair equally. BB definitely lacks here.
Alarm Clock	1	1	1	This should be non issue across the board.
Apps	2	3	1	iPhone has the lead here but only because they were first. Android is catching fast.
Camera	1	3	2	I think this where Android OS being open to multiple hardware shops has an advantage. Most new phones on Android have better camera and memory capacity. iPhone camera is not bad but it's definitely not the leader. BB again is non existent in this category.
Skype, Video Chat etc	2	3	1	Skype is now available on both Android and iPhone. And both new hardwares have the front camera video chat. But if you are using any specific video chat messenger then they might only have iPhone app. But again this is a matter of time. Again BB is non existent in this category.

Book Review: Wine Politics: How Governments, Environmentalists, Mobsters, and Critics Influence the Wines We Drink

This book is a great read and definitely recommended to any wine  aficionados. In the preface, Tyler mentions that if you are looking to resolve your personal conflicts between the Red / White wine or find your political orientation, then this book is NOT for you.  To an extend I agree but then again I encourage all wine lovers of all kinds to go pick a copy of this book.

To be honest, my opinion might be a bit biased as I have had the  pleasure to take a Wine course with him at NYU and had been looking forward to this book for a bit now. It was great fun to be part of  Tyler's class as he took us on wonderful journey of Wine Culture and Tasting. His ability to take a very intimidating topic of Wine and make it very easy for amateurs is amazing. He does the same in this book as his passion and knowledge of the subject is palpable.

Kudos to Dr. Vino on this book. To many more years of exploration of  wine world. Salut !!!

Book Review: Critical Choices That Change Lives: How Heroes Turn Tragedy into Triumph

Sports throws plentiful heroes. For me, there isn’t a more awe-inspiring image than Anil Kumble, The Muhammad Ali of Cricket, coming out to bowl with bandages wrapped around his head nursing his broken jaw!! So, when I saw  my childhood hero ,Rahul Dravid, reading this book as he waited for his turn to bat, I knew I had to buy this book. And boy, I wasn’t disappointed.

Everyone loves a hero. Everyone needs a hero —courageous, self-sacrificing people setting examples for all of us. We cheer them, cry for them and then tell tales of how we stood for hours just to get a glimpse of the one who taught us to hold on a second longer.  But who do heroes turn to when they need guidance and motivation ? Where do they find that inner strength to hang on for just a bit longer ? How do they persevere enough to know and attain success just around the bend ?  In this book, Daniel Castro tries to find answers to these questions and writes an amazing account of inspirational stories from every walk of like, from every corner of the world. I highly recommend this book to anyone who is on the verge of making a big decision in their lives.

One of the tags for this book on Amazon.com is “self-help”. I am not a big fan of this term and I strongly believe this book is so much more.  This book can inspire you to greatness within your limited capacity and even take you beyond. With interesting, life-changing anecdotes from leaders and heroes from all walks of life, I promise you’ll be  a changed person by the time you finish reading it.
I have used the word “inspire” a lot in this review and for good reason. If there is one thought with which you walk away after reading this book is – INSPIRED!

Book Review: All Marketers are Liars

Good storytellers have an amazing gift. They can make people believe what they want them to believe. People turn to storytellers in the times of need and want. It comforts them to reinforce their own ideas, their values and their beliefs. In this book, Seth Godin tries to explain that how successful marketers unleash this power for the purposes of marketing in the new world order. As he categorically states that he “lies” when he titled his book “All Marketers are Liars”. In fact it is all of us who are the liars and chose to believe the stories of the marketers and then in turn lie to ourselves.

This book is a great read and I would highly recommend to everyone. With compelling collection of cases studies and stories, it relates to each one of us whether you are a marketing professional or not. It doesn’t matter if you are selling soap, car or your services at a job interview; Marketing is key to success.  This book will make your think and help you tell your story in a way that fits other people’s worldview.