Local Travel Tip

When it comes to wining and dining, the Colombians know where it’s at!  This week’s international travel HOT SPOT is: Bogota, Colombia.  OK, now I know most of you are thinking of the travel warning issued by the United States Department of State which says, “The Department of State warns American citizens of the dangers of travel to Colombia.”  Although it is a country that has been affected by narco-terrorist groups for several decades (sad, but true), the beauty and richness of the culture is unmatched by any other country in the world. Therefore, in order to enjoy your trip to Colombia, I invite you to take into consideration all of the International Travel Safety Tips mentioned in this blog.

Now, lets talk about INCREDIBLE restaurants.  In my book, an amazing trip consists of great food and an awesome environment (people, location, ambiance, etc).  Let me reiterate: great food + awesome environment = amazing trip.  If you feel the same way I do, then the Colombian restaurant for you is Andres Carne de Res.

With only two locations in the entire country (one in Bogota and one in Chia), ACR has won the hearts and appetites of millions of locals and tourists over the years.  Nicknamed by some as the Basilica of Beef, ACR offers a dining experience unlike any other.  It has been described best as, “one part traditional Colombian fare, 3 parts art gallery, and a pinch of nightclub all finished with a garnish of theatrical whimsy. The decor alone is worth the trip.”  The walls, beams, bathrooms, chairs, and lamps of this open-air barn have been decorated from top to bottom with everything from brightly painted bottle caps to mannequin limbs (yes, kind of weird…but awesome decoration!).  It is most definitely a sight to see!

Their menu includes traditional plates such as Sancocho (homemade stew with yucca), Ajiaco con Pollo, Arepa con Huevo, Lomo de Cerdo, and much more.  However, the food alone isn’t what makes ACR what it is today.  Amidst the comfort of the  hanging art and the eccentric decor, you’ll find that in the evenings ACR becomes one of the most popular “nightclubs” in town.  Salsa, merengue, and vallenato are played from dusk until dawn.

Whether you go just for the food or to spend a fun evening with your friends/family, your experience at ACR is sure to be a memorable one.

No trip to Arizona would be complete without eating some of the best Mexican food in the United States.  Here are some of the restaurants that are a must-try in the Phoenix area.

Carolina’s Mexican Food

What started off as a small family business selling tamales out of the back of a car has become one of the most well-known authentic Mexican restaurants in Arizona.  Try Carolina’s burros and tamales and pick up a few extra tortillas-they are to die for.  http://www.carolinasmexicanfood.com/index.html

Jordan’s Mexican Food

Jordan’s has been popular for decades in downtown Phoenix.  Passed on through generations through the Jordan family it has kept the same delicious and authentic menu.  Their chips and salsa are the best in the state!
6247 N 7th St
Phoenix, AZ 85014-1834
(602) 274-6836

Ajo Al’s Mexican Cafe

With four locations in the valley you are bound to run into an Ajo Al’s.  They have a large menu with a wide variety of delicious choices but don’t miss out on the Pollo con Queso.  As there most famous item, many people never try anything else! http://www.ajoals.com

Chino Bandido

If you are looking for something a little bit different try the Mexican-Chinese fusion of Chino Bandido.  You won’t find anything like this place.  While the ordering system is a little complex you won’t be disappointed with the delicious combination of Mexican and Chinese flavors.  Be sure to try their quesadillas.   http://www.chinobandido.com/

On a trip to Italy no one can resist the allure of their famous gelato. However, Italians know that tourists are suckers for this delicious treat and they line the streets with gelaterias. With so many choices, how do you find the best? Your best bet is to ask the locals, but if your Italian isn’t up to par, here are some tips to finding the best.

1. Steer clear of big tourist spots. There are always plenty of enticing gelaterias around big tourist areas, but they are usually overpriced and not the best quality.
2. Look for a place with a limited number of flavors. While the stores with dozens of flavors look exciting, they are often not the best quality or most authentic.
3. Explore. Often the best gelaterias are found while just exploring through the winding roads of Italy.

While doing my own exploring in Italy I tried dozens of kinds of gelato. Here is what I found: In Rome, the Old Bridge Gelateria just outside of Vatican City is the best in the city. Inexpensive and delicious! If you find yourself in Siena, avoid the Piazza del Campo and take a stroll down Via dei Rossi. You will stumble upon CopaCabana, not only the best gelato in Siena, but the least expensive as well! If you are a chocolate lover, try their Fondente(dark chocolate).

Enjoy your search to find the best gelato and be daring in your selection of different flavors!