photo by rusvaplauke

The rich culture of South East Asia has created some of the tastiest food in the world. Once known as the land of the spices, the food of the Thais, Filipinos, Vietnamese, and Indonesians are among the most famous exotic creations. Much of the identity of South East Asia lies on the different food that come from unique, yet common backgrounds following the influences of Indian, Chinese, and the European colonizers along with the local flavor.

The food has both common and binding ingredients. These include coconut milk, lemon grass, sugar, basil, fish paste, and chili. To an outsider’s taste buds, this food is described as spicy, tangy and sweet, all mixing together to present a unique taste. Curry, which is an Indian food, has evolved to be a staple dish in South East Asia.

Thai food is the most popular cuisine coming from South East Asia. It takes in five different flavors from the different regions in its traditional kingdoms which are sour, salty, sweet, spicy, and bitter. The famous southern curries are traditional Indian adaptations that have local ingredients like coconut milk. Thai food uses generous servings of fresh spices and fish sauces. Like any other Asian country, rice is the staple food of the Thais. If you travel to Thailand, you will encounter a very unique experience in tasting the different variety of Thai food. The most famous dishes are Pad Thai, and Red Na.

Filipino food meanwhile offers a range of different flavors all scrambled together to present a bulk taste. It is the most unique among South East Asians because it took more foreign influences from their colonizers as compared to their neighbors. As an example, it has more meat than Thai food or Vietnamese food. It also has fewer spices. Instead they use the taste of the meat just like the Spanish and the Americans. Filipino food as compared to South East Asian food is roasted more just like the Western style. This makes Filipino food a popular choice among American and Western tourists.

Like other South East Asia cuisine, Vietnamese cuisine follows the tradition of the Indians and Chinese. It uses a lot of soy sauce and fish sauce, which is both an Indian and Chinese influence. Religion plays a large part on Vietnamese cooking as most dishes are vegetarian as compared to Filipino foods which are very meaty.

Vietnamese food follows the spicy and sweet taste and like any other South East Asian country, rice is the popular choice. Vietnamese cuisine is also known for their rich soup concoctions. These soups along with the countless dishes are very popular in North America, France, and Russia.

To experience the best of these flavors, get yourself a cheap hotel in South East Asia and try the real authentic taste for yourself!

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Photo by sergeymk

No other country in the world enjoy mealtimes more than the French. With style and finesse, this national pastime unearths some exquisite dishes unmatched anywhere else on the planet. The top chefs parade round town like Hollywood movies stars, safe in the knowledge their culinary talents have blessed them with a lifestyle reserved for the rich and famous.

Whilst eating out can be expensive, a little common sense can go a long way to saving you a euro or two. Every budget is catered for in Paris, and should you wish to pay the same size bill as Brad Pitt then that can easily be arranged. However, avoiding tourist hotspots and seeking backstreet restaurants can yield lesser damage to your wallet.

The Au Virage Lepic offers a basic menu, though the food is of good quality. The friendly ambience provides a pleasant eating experience, and all at a reasonable price. Diners chatter away, conveying their thoughts and episodes of the day, whilst waiters scurry around feeding their hungry guests.

Chez Gladines is a snug little place, a real home from home. The informal atmosphere presents a more down-to-earth clientele, preoccupied with their delightful Basque dishes, washed down with the help of some fine French wine.

Excellent food at a generous price can be found at Flo, an old-fashioned eating place popular with many of the younger tourists. The tight, elongated tables afford a more party atmosphere as diners and drinkers alike sit shoulder to shoulder conversing, as time passes into the early hours.

For a vegetarian flavour visit La Petite Legume, a friendly little cafÈ to make you feel at home. The food is splendid and benefits from an organic slant.

Drinking establishments are spread throughout Paris, providing for every taste and wallet. Though street side cafÈs tend to be a little expensive, the unique Parisian atmosphere rewards any expense, and no trip to Paris should go without this experience.

Popular with the younger generation is the Cafe Charbon. Tranquil during day, the fashionable bar explodes into life come evening, as clubbers gather for early drinks and Dutch courage prior to their assault on the nightlife.

Facing St Sulpice church rests the unassuming Cafe de la Mairie. Its idyllic location draws plenty of passing trade, all appreciating the warm and friendly aura.

Low-priced beverages and daytime nibbles are aplenty at La Folie en Tete; the relaxed bar is a complete contrast to the vigorous street activities outside. Folk dash by, whilst the punters just sit and chill.

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