High-tech, yet old school; innovative, artsy and a little hippie at the same time. A maritime urban centre in the Pacific Northwest of America, Seattle has diverse neighborhoods that cause shifting moods as one moves from one corner of the city to the other.

I had a short visit to Seattle this Spring break and was lucky that I made the choice because the sakuras that were in full bloom is every reason that Spring time is the best time to visit the city despite the ongoing rain. But hey, what is Seattle without the thick clouds and rain?

Here are some of the things that you can do and see when you have 48 hours in Seattle.

The prettiest place to soak in the blushed pink and white scenery of cherry blossom trees is the Quad at University of Washington. Being a Cali girl, it was such a sweet surprise for me to see an array of sakuras few hours away from my home without having to cross the Pacific Ocean to Japan. It was so hard to leave the quad especially when the loveliest moment came. And that is when the wind blew and the petals started swirling elegantly around in the air, making me want to capture that little fairytale-like moment in my camera hopelessly.

Pike Place Market is another favorite to walk around at because it just seems to have everything, from Russian bakeries to clam chowder, fish market, fruits, souvenir shops, and flowers. Yes, that endless row of flowers – daffodils, tulips, hyacinth and everything pretty. If flowers could survive through the long airport waits and plane rides, I would totally carry them all with me home.

And of course all Starbucks addicts (and even if you’re not…) have to pay a visit to the very first Starbucks store, which is located right across Pike Place Market. Cold mornings in the rain with a Starbucks cup in hand…

Down the alley below Pike Place Market (it looks a little sketch though) is where you will find the infamous Gum Wall. In case it is not clear yet from the name itself, the Gum Wall is where people stick their used chewing gums on this brick wall. Some parts of the wall are covered in several inches thick of chewed gums. Yes, “yucks” is the reaction, but this place is one of the landmarks of Downtown Seattle.

Taking the monorail from Westlake Station, which is a short five minutes walk away from Pike Place Market, will take you briefly to the Seattle Center. It is built originally in 1962 for the World’s Fair and it is the arts and entertainment center of Seattle. Its landmark is the 605 foot tall Space Needle where you can take an elevator up to the observation deck at 520 feet to get a 360 degrees view of the city.

End off your trip with a visit to Chihuly Garden and Glass. The exhibition showcases the glass artwork by Dale Chihuly using the technique of glass blowing from Burano, and the most enchanting section is the glasshouse that is filled with chains of glass flowers hanging over the roof. Those glasses were so beautifully blown like how my mind was right then.

About the writer
Anlin Melina majors in Business Administration and and South & Southeast Asian Studies at the University of California, Berkeley. She likes travelling and writing during her free time. You can buy her new book “Once Upon A Blue Sky” – a travel guide book on cities in the United States – from Amazon.

Being a third culture kid and having lived in several different countries, Jakarta is still always home to me. The vibrancy of the city itself with an increasing myriad of up-scale restaurants, cafes and polished bars just make Jakarta that much better place to live in. I have included a diverse list of some of my favorite places in the city that have the best cuisines, ambience and views to hang out at.

Here is our guide on Where to eat in Jakarta. 

PS: all places listed below can be conveniently found in Jakarta’s CBD (ie Sudirman, Thamrin and Senayan).

Altitude (Gaia, Salt Grill, Enmaru)

Located at the 46th floor of the prestigious the Plaza office tower, Altitude is a new fine dining concept in Jakarta that encompasses three restaurants in one place – Salt Grill by Luke Mangan (modern Australian), Gaia (northern Italian), and Enmaru (Japanese izakaya). This high-end and classy place offers the finest 360-degree views of Jakarta, which I can guarantee you that, the sparkling lights of skyscrapers will make you fall in love with the city right away.

The Plaza, 46th Floor
Jl. M.H. Thamrin Kav. 28-30
Jakarta 10350
Tel: +62 21 2992 2448

Café du Jour

Probably one of the most authentic and homely café that I have been to in Jakarta, Café du Jour is a humble place that is housed inside Senayan National Golf Club. The charmingly simple black and white appearance can easily make one lingers there for hours, especially with the lush greenery of the golf course right across the wide opened window. The café’s specialties include the aromatic Arabian coffees from Bandung and West Java, as well as the homemade cakes and Indonesian pastries.

Senayan National Golf Club
Jl. Asia Afrika Pintu IX, Senayan
Jakarta 10270
Tel: +6221 571 0181122

Dapur Babah Elite

Housed in a semi rundown shop house at Jalan Veteran, the large wooden doors of Dapur Babah open their gates to a heritage of an ethnic Chinese family. At the dining room there lies a long dining table that is prepared meticulously with red, blue and orange tablecloths and cutleries, and at the courtyard is a tall altar with distinctive Peranakan charms and real antiques. The cuisine is an amalgam of three cultures – Chinese, Indonesian and Dutch, which makes dining here an interesting experience. Dapur Babah, which belongs to the Tugu Group, is considered as one of Jakarta’s best and most impressive restaurants.

Dapur Babah Elite
Jl. Veteran I No. 18-19
Jakarta Pusat
Tel: +62 21 385 5653

Le Jardin and Mezzanine by MooVina

This 2 concept in 1 restaurant have two levels – Le Jardin on the first level and Mezzanine on the second – and both are finely designed. Le Jardin is the first restaurant in Jakarta with an indoor garden dining concept with chairs shaped like bird cages and artificial trees and flower pots surrounding the tables, all of which seem like they take you away to a whimsical Parisian garden. Take the circular stairs up and it will bring you to Mezzanine, a modernly designed interior with open kitchen and full-length windows.

Le Jardin serves your casual and comfort French food like crepes, salads, and pastries while Mezzanine offers contemporary French cuisines with a Vietnamese twist. There is also a sleek and chic bar section and fireplace lounge at Mezzanine, which is the perfect place to chill.

Plaza Indonesia
3rd Floor No. 119 (Le Jardin)
4th Floor No. 6 (Mezzanine)
Jl. M.H. Thamrin Kav. 28-30
Jakarta 10350
Tel: +62 21 299 24567 (Le Jardin)
Tel: +62 21 299 23999 (Mezzanine)

Orient8

This opulently decorated French and Pan-Asian restaurant is housed at the luxurious Hotel Mulia in Senayan. Just by walking through the lavishly elegant corridor itself is already enough to steal one’s heart. The interior décor is not simply classical, but historically artsy too if you pay close attention to the details – it is colonial French with a twist of Indo-Chinese elements. Orient8 serves a wide range of degustation tasting menu, from the 8-course Eight from Orient8 to 14-course Napoleon and 16-course Louis IX.

Hotel Mulia Jakarta
Jl. Asia Afrika, Senayan
Jakarta 10270
Tel: +62 21 5753278

Rustique

Rustique is one of the finest steak restaurants in Jakarta, and one of the reasons is because it is the first restaurant in Indonesia that introduces the technique of dry-aging for their meats. The steaks here are extremely tender and filled with robust flavors. The lovely ambience – with the unpolished red brick walls and large gilded mirrors – completes the dining experience.

Plaza Senayan, Level 4
Jl. Asia Afrika No. 8
Jakarta 10270
Tel: +62 21 578 52760

Seribu Rasa

Seribu Rasa, which directly translates to “One Thousand Flavors”, is one of the well-known restaurants that offer delectable local dishes with very rich Indonesian flavors. The dining environment with its full glass walls, ponds, soft yellow lightings and wooden furniture is peaceful, serene, yet homely and welcoming at the same time. While it is true that the food here is a little overpriced, the ambience and elegance more than made up for it.

Jl. H Agus Salim 128
Jakarta 10310
Tel: +62 21 392 8892

Skye

Opened last summer by the Dapper Ismaya Group, Skye is located at Level 56 rooftop of BCA Tower (Menara BCA). This high-end bistro and lounge offers a spectacular panoramic view of Jakarta’s skyline, and with the loud music, fancy crowds, summer nights breeze and a million city lights high up in the skye – no doubt this is my favorite place in the city.

Note that reservations are highly recommended.

Menara BCA, Level 56
Jl. M.H. Thamrin No. 1
Gondangdia Menteng
Jakarta 10350
Tel: +62 21 235 86996

The Papilion (Huize van Wely)

Jakarta’s famed Dutch patisserie, Huize van Wely is an elegant, chic and stylish tearoom that serves light savory lunches and delicate sinful desserts. Prices are more on the higher end here, but it is really because of the high caliber and exclusive fanciness – those decadent chocolate cakes among the white en white orchids and butterflies…

Pacific Place
The Papilion, 1st Floor
Jl. Kemang Raya No. 45AA
Jakarta 12730
Tel: +62 21 7191975

Union

This brasserie, bakery and bar has a classic vintage setting with its black window panes, glass doors and wooden chairs that take you back to the early 20th century American bistros. Union is smartly situated at the Plaza Senayan courtyard, overlooking the serene fountain and leafy trees. Their amazing red velvet cake with a cup of hot café mocha on a rainy afternoon will just make your lazy Satur-daze perfect.

Plaza Senayan Courtyard, Ground Floor
Jl. Asia Afrika No. 8
Jakarta 10270
Tel: +62 21 5790 5861

About the writer
Anlin Melina is a Business Administration and Economics student at the University of California, Berkeley, who likes travelling and writing during her free time. You can buy her new book “Once Upon A Blue Sky” – a travel guide book on cities in the United States – from Amazon.

Hogwarts, chocolate frogs, platform 9 and 3/4, Olivander’s wands, Firebolt, butterbeer, magic. During my Spring break, I got a chance to fly to sunny state Florida and have a hysterically fun week skipping along from theme parks to theme parks.

One of the highlights was entering the Wizarding World of Harry Potter, which is a part of the Islands of Adventure at the Universal Studios Resort Orlando.

I do not know if it was because of Spring break, or is it really the magic of everyone’s most beloved wizard created by J.K. Rowling – the park was extremely packed with excited muggles wishing to enter Hogwarts and Hogsmeade.

There was a 2-hour standby line even for entering The Wizarding World of Harry Potter itself, and additional waiting times ranging from 30 minutes to 150 minutes for the rides and attractions. Nonetheless, the long wait was all worth it and I couldn’t think of anything but the words magical and extraordinary to describe my day.

There are three main rides at the Wizarding World of Harry Potter – Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey being the star attraction, Dragon Challenge and The Flight of the Hippogriff. The first ride is simply out of this world. It takes you into the Forbidden Forest, soaring high above Hogwarts castle, chasing for the golden Snitch in Quidditch match, and even lets you encounter with the creepy Dementors. I literally felt that I was flying at some points of the ride too. Spectacular and really amazing. The 150 minutes line for this ride was made bearable by the exhibitions inside the Hogwarts castle. One will get to walk into the hallway that was filled with portraits that can move and talk, tour Dumbledore’s office, meet with Harry, Ron and Hermione in the Defense Against the Dark Arts classroom, and (I wish that we can) get sorted into the different houses by the Sorting Hat.

The Dragon Challenge is a thrilling roller coaster ride that is similar to the Battlestar Galactica at Universal Studios Singapore where there are two lines that will meet together at a point. The Flight of the Hippogriff is a less intense ride that will be suitable for every one of all ages.

But what really make this world real and magical are the shops, food and very detailed decorations of Hogwarts and Hogsmeade. You can get good ol’ classic Butterbeer and dip your lips in the thick froth like how Harry did it. If you are curious what Butterbeer tastes like, it is carbonated and has a caramelized taste – bliss.

One of my favorite shops at Harry Potter Theme Park has got to be Honeydukes. This wizard version of candy empire is simply pretty, sweet and colorful. Everyone can feel that childlike excitement the moment they step into the store and you will feel like you want to get everything, from chocolate frogs to Bertie Bott’s every flavor beans.

As for souvenirs, you can get different kinds of wands from Olivander’s, Gryffindor scarf and robe, the snowy owl Hedwig, and even Firebolt. Now if we can just dress ourselves as one of Hogwarts students and not return to the muggle world…

The Wizarding World of Harry Potter
6000 Universal Blvd Orlando
Florida 32819, United States
Tel: +1 954 558 1784

About the writer
Anlin Melina is a Business Administration and Economics student at the University of California, Berkeley, who likes travelling and writing during her free time. You can buy her new book “Once Upon A Blue Sky” – a travel guide book on cities in the United States – from Amazon.

The restaurant scene in Los Angeles is certainly reviving with smart new bistros, cafes and restaurants springing up from east to west and emphasizing on chic and elegant fare and designs. While there are numerous upscale fine dining in the city that are highly acclaimed, some of the mid-range restaurants are worth the attention too.

My favorites are those that are famous for their brunches, lunches, and desserts. What’s better than spending your day with your girlfriends over lattes, Eggs Benedicts, cakes and conversations that are bathed in the beautiful afternoon light?

Here is a list of 5 Brunch Spots in Los Angeles that are worth checking out.

Hollywood. Beverly Hills. Celebrities. Theme parks. Beaches. Brunches. Desserts.

Urth Caffe

Prided for their own exclusively organic coffees and fine teas, Urth Caffe also boasts a unique atmosphere with outdoor seating on their large patio that are great for sunny days. My favorite drink here is their green tea latte, which is the best I’ve ever had. It has a strong but not overwhelming Matcha taste, creamy and not overly sweet. Their desserts come in large portion and are definitely great for sharing.

Urth Caffee Beverly Hills
267 S Beverly Dr
Beverly Hills, CA 90209
Tel: (310) 205 9311

Urth Caffe Santa Monica
2327 Main St
Santa Monica, CA 90405
Tel: (310) 314 7040

Bottega Louie

With its post-modern architecture, airy high ceilings, polished marble floor, full glass windows and wonderfully carved scones, Bottega Louie is one of the fanciest place for high tea. Their brightly colored macarons that are gorgeously displayed in the more than three meters long counter are the most tempting thing in the place, but I would also suggest their pear tart and chocolate soufflé too. Also not forgetting that the service here is impeccable.

700 S Grand Ave
Los Angeles, CA 90017
Tel: (213) 802 1470

CHAYA

CHAYA is a classy Asian fusion brasserie that has a sophisticated ambience with red accents decor. The restaurant serves sushi and main courses, but their desserts are not to
be missed. The chocolate croissant bread pudding is an absolute favorite and quite unlike the other bread puddings. Using croissants instead of the usual bread, their bread pudding is crispier on the surface and more moist and buttery on the inside. The molten chocolate cake is also memorable because they use a rich and thick Valrhona chocolate paired with candied hazelnuts and vanilla ice cream.

CHAYA Downtown
525 S Flower St
Los Angeles, CA 90071
Tel: (213) 236 9577

CHAYA Beverly Hills
8741 Alden Drive
Los Angeles, CA 90048
Tel: (310) 859 8833

Little Next Door

Housed in one of the blocks along the long stretch of Melrose Avenue, the Little Next Door is like a petite French garden tucked in between the other cafes and shops. Stepping into this place is like taking a quick vacation to France, with the atmosphere, waitress’ thick French accents and the quintessential french menu items like croque Monsieur and French onion soup. They also do their Eggs Benedict in a different way, using a soft buttery toast instead of English muffin. The pastries here like mille-feuilles and opera cake are perfect and pretty too.

8142 W 3rd St
Los Angeles, CA 90048
(323) 951-1010

The Ivy

The Ivy has become one of the must-go places in Los Angeles because it is one of the prime star-spotting locations with its fair number of celebrity guests over the years. It is not unusual to see paparazzi camping outside this colorful bistro that has candlelit tables and roses everywhere. Its lush secret garden style atmosphere and beautifully presented food are definitely some of its selling points. The Ivy also serves one of the best red velvet cakes in the city.

113 N Roberston Blvd
Los Angeles, CA 90048
(310) 274-8303

About the writer
Anlin Melina is a Business Administration and Economics student at the University of California, Berkeley, who likes travelling and writing during her free time. You can buy her new book “Once Upon A Blue Sky” – a travel guide book on cities in the United States – from Amazon.

I recently travelled to New York City and it was my second time travelling by myself. I’m more of an outgoing person, so I wasn’t that apprehensive about it. But I know that for most people, travelling alone can be a really anxious thing, especially if one had to travel by herself, for example, if she was on a business trip and have some free time alone to wander about the city.

However, the good news is that travelling solo is not a bad thing at all; there are several advantages for it and further below are tips for travelling alone.

If you are planning to go on an adventure soon, you should also read this post on important things to know for solo travellers.

Advantages of travelling alone:

1. Me time

Spending a few days by yourself (and for yourself) in a foreign city where no one knows you is probably one of the best ways to focus on yourself and enjoy what life has in store for you. We got too caught up in our busy daily routines sometimes that we neglect on treating ourselves well. Travelling solo is a good way to have some “me time” to treat yourself with the new environment, atmosphere, food, and vibe.

2. Flexibility

When you are travelling alone, you can afford to be very flexible with your own schedule. You can go to anywhere at anytime you want, or make any last minute changes to your itinerary if there is a need to without being concerned if your friends would mind. Happen to pass by that cute little café down the corner of the street on the way to the museum? Just stop by, walk in, and try it.

3. Courage and independence

One of the greatest takeaways from travelling solo is probably learning on how to get out of our little comfort zones to just be out there in new places. Finding your way around the city by yourself, trying hard to speak a new language, meeting with new people along the way, and the list goes on. I guess it’s also fair to say that you will find courage from all these and take these little steps to learn to be more independent – at least in a foreign land.

Tips for travelling alone:

1. Be “thick skinned”

Definitely the most important tip – I find that we have to “thicken” our skins when we are travelling by ourselves. If you want your photo to be taken in front of that historical landmark, you have to ask other people to help you (be careful though, to make sure that they do not run away with your camera). When you’re eating alone at the bar, do not think that other people are looking at you; just think and look as if you’re a food critic so that’s why you’re eating there by yourself. When you make mistakes while trying to speak the foreign language, do not be afraid! At the end of the day, you’ll just laugh it off and have fun with it.

2. Be wise

By being wise here, I mean that you can choose to go to places that are more suitable for solo travellers. Join a group walking tour of the city to get a lively introduction of your new surroundings and meet with other solo travelers. Or view exhibitions at the museum since you have no one to distract you now while immersing yourself in those art pieces. Choose to dine at restaurants with bar seating where they are tailored for solo diners.

3. Smile

And always be friendly to the locals. People are generally nice at the core, so if you’re nice to them, they’ll be happy to talk to you too and help you if you need directions or recommendations. Remember to smile as and when you can. And you can never go wrong.

While travelling in general gives you new experiences and touches the soul, travelling solo additionally allows you to meet more new people along the way, which has got to be one of the ultimate joys of the journey. And it’s up to you to make the connections on route. You are traveling solo, but definitely not alone.

About the writer
Anlin Melina is a Business Administration and Economics student at the University of California, Berkeley, who likes travelling and writing during her free time. Melina has recently completed writing her first book, titled “Once Upon A Blue Sky”, which is a travel guide book on cities in the United States.

If there’s one thing that can make Italy memorable besides pastas and pizzas, it must be their gelato. Gelato shops in Italy are colorful affairs. The array of tubs is filled with pastel colors, shades of browns and crèmes, and bright summer colors. Walking into them and looking at all that gelato can make you really excited – and confused too, especially with the Italian names that can be a complete mystery to some of you.

So here’s a Beginners Guide to decode gelato.

Firstly, gelato is slightly different from ice cream. Ice cream is mainly made from cream and eggs, while gelato recipes usually include egg yolk, more milk and less cream. Gelato is rich and a creamier treat than ice cream, and the good news is that it has less fat than ice cream!

Gelateria [jell-a-ter-EE-a] – gelato shop in Italy.

For The Chocoholics

Cioccolato [cho-koh-LAH-toh] – the basic chocolate flavor.

Cioccolato Fondente [cho-koh-LAH-toh fawn-DEN-the] – dark chocolate. For extreme dark chocolate lovers who love that extra bitter chocolate taste, look out for the Cioccolato Fondente Extra Noir.

Cioccolato al Latte [cho-koh-LAH-toh ahl LAH-tay] – milk chocolate; less bitter, more sweet.

Gianduia [jahn-DOO-yah] – combination of milk chocolate and hazelnut. This is my personal favorite because it tastes like the chocolate Fererro Rocher, and there is no ice cream that has this flavor.

For The Nutties

Pistacchio [pee-STAHK-yoh] – pistachio.

Nocciola [noh-CHO-lah] – pure hazelnut, tastes like Nutella and absolutely love this too.

For The Classic Crème Lovers

Fior di Latte [FYOR dee LAH-tay] – this directly translates to “flower of milk” and it has a
wonderful subtle sweet cream flavor. I like to think of it as the gelato version of vanilla ice cream.

Stracciatella [strah-cha-TEL-lah] – Flor di Latte topped with chocolate chip bits, ie gelato
equivalent of chocolate chip ice cream.

Cocco [KOH-koh] – coconut. Careful to not confuse the name as “chocolate”!

Caffè [kah-FAY] – coffee, with very strong espresso infused to it.

For The Tutti Frutti

The flavors below are sorbetto. They are not gelato by definition, since they do not contain milk. Sorbetti are made of only fruits and water. The high proportion of fruits that is used make sorbetti softer and less icy than regular sorbets.

Fragola [FRAH-go-lah] – strawberry.

Limone [ee-MOH-nay] – lemon.

Mandarino [mahn-dah-REE-noh] – mandarin orange.

Now, even after knowing what each name is, I always still have a hard time deciding what flavor to have and will stand in front of the gelato bar for three minutes before I can make up my mind. But yes, I agree with you that the best part of getting gelato is tasting all the interesting flavors before deciding on one.

About the writer
Anlin Melina is a Business Administration and Economics student at the University of California, Berkeley. She was born in Indonesia, educated in Singapore and is currently living in the San Francisco Bay Area. She speaks and writes in English, Chinese, Indonesian and French, and likes travelling and writing during her free time. Melina has recently completed writing her first book, titled “Once Upon A Blue Sky”, which is a travel guide book on cities in the United States.

San Francisco is truly a gastronomic heaven. Be it Japanese, Chinese or French patisseries and desserts, they have the best here in San Francisco to satisfy your taste buds. And thanks to the myriad of Asians that flock the land, San Francisco is home to some of the best Asian delights here in the States. It is no wonder why restaurants are one of San Francisco’s main attractions, drawing people not only from the Bay Area, but from all over the world.

Here is a list of restaurants and bakeries that you can visit during your gastronomic adventure in San Francisco.

If you are planning a trip there, also read my post on 5 Things to Do in San Francisco.

Izakaya Sozai

Right in the corner of Inner Sunset neighborhood, a traditional Japanese food soars at Izakaya Sozai. There must be something seductive about its big plate-glass windows that almost reach the sidewalk, because seated inside on the wooden banquettes are all engaged diners and waiting outside for a place in the 40-seat dining room are eager eaters. The most exciting dishes on the menu are small plates that are the most traditionally Japanese. On top of that, they also have daily specials that you can read from the blackboards.

1500 Irving St (between 17th Ave and 16th Ave)
San Francisco, CA 94122
Tel: (415) 742 5122
Wed to Thu & Sun: 5:30pm – 10pm
Fri to Sat: 5:30pm – 11pm

Sophie’s Crepes

Sophie’s Crepe is tucked in the corner of the shopping centre in Japantown. It is not hard to find because this place is always crowded with people, especially college students and young adults. They serve French crepe but are done in Japanese style. Their crepe has a really smooth texture and the right amount of sweetness and butter taste. The fillings and toppings are what make the crepe “Japanese” – azuki beans, green tea ice cream, red bean syrup, etc. The crepe is rolled up into a cone (which makes it easy to eat on-the-go) and a generous amount of all-things-sweet is topped on it.

1581 Webster St (between Geary Blvd & Post St)
San Francisco, CA 94 115
Tel: (415) 929 7732
Tue to Thu: Sun 11am – 9pm
Fri to Sat: 12pm-10pm

Ghirardelli Square

Simply a chocolate heaven! Ghirardelli is a famous local chocolate brand in San Francisco. Situated right next to the Fisherman’s Wharf, Ghirardelli Square is like a chocolate playground where you can tour their chocolate factory, sample their chocolates, shop for pounds of chocolate bars for your friends back home, and order their special chocolate creations for that sinful indulgence at their café. Life is always great with chocolates.

900 N Point St, San Francisco, CA 94109
Tel: (415) 775 5500
Mon to Thu: 10am – 6pm
Fri to Sat: 10am – 9pm
Sun: 11am – 6pm

The Buena Vista

Located at a historic old building at the end of the Hyde Street cable car line, The Buena Vista is always packed with people who are there for its famous Irish Coffee. This place is oozing with nostalgia and is no wonder that it is a prime spot for both tourists and locals alike. Besides their addictive alcoholic coffee, The Buena Vista serves food like burgers and sandwiches too.

2765 Hyde St (between North Point St & Beach St)
San Francisco, CA 94109
Tel: (415) 474 5044
Mon to Fri: 9am – 2am
Sat & Sun: 8am – 2am

Café Jacqueline

Café Jacqueline is said to be one of the most romantic restaurants in San Francisco. The interior has a simple décor that gives an old-fashioned Parisian feel and I think what makes this place romantic is the quiet ambience in the surrounding North Beach and Telegraph Hill neighborhood.

Café Jacqueline is famous for its soufflé – hearty yet so light, and fluffy yet so filling. Their soufflé is huge (believe me, it’s going to be the biggest soufflé you’ve ever seen) and is good to share among 4 people. And for a little surprise, besides dolce flavors like chocolate, raspberry and Grand Marnier, they also serve savory soufflé like lobster, crab, and asparagus.

1454 Grant Ave (between Green St & Union St)
San Francisco, CA 94133
Tel: (415) 981 5565
Wed to Sun: 5.30pm – 11pm

Mama’s

Located at North Beach neighborhood’s Washington Square Park, which is formerly the Bohemian part of the city, Mama’s is famous because it seriously makes the best breakfast in town. Since Mama and Papa Sanchez first opened their doors over 50 years ago, Mama’s has been continuing a tradition in serving fluffy omelettes, homemade jams, thick pancakes, and freshly baked pastries and breads. In short, Mama’s is truly a breakfast legend.

1701 Stockton St (at Filbert St), San Francisco, CA 94133
Tel: (415) 362 6421
Tue to Sun: 8am – 3pm

Golden Gate Bakery

This Chinatown bakery certainly does not stand out from the surrounding businesses in terms of appearance. With their humble shop front, you wouldn’t expect that they serve amazing cult-like egg tarts. There is always a line outside the shop, but when you make it inside, everyone crowds together towards the counter. You have to edge your way up and place your order. Although they may pass you by in favor of a regular, I encourage you to stand your ground to get these tarts of gold.

1029 Grant Ave (between Jackson St & Pacific Ave)
San Francisco, CA 94133
Tel: (415) 781 2627
Mon – Sun 8am – 8pm

Boudin Sourdough Bakery and Café

Boudin bakes the classic sourdough breads and brews the creamy clam chowder. And the perfect way to enjoy these is to have your clam chowder in a sourdough bread bowl. The slight hint of sourness will blend nicely with the salty and thick sourdough bread. Boudin also sells sourdough breads in cute animal shapes that you can take home and cans of clam chowders that can be good souvenirs from the wharf. You are also able to tour the kitchen or watch the bakers through the glass windows along the street. The shop is sort of magical too as you can see how they move the breads in baskets that are hung and moved along the steel bars.

160 Jefferson St (between Mason St & Taylor St)
San Francisco, CA 94133
Tel: (415) 928 1849
Mon – Thu 8am – 9:30pm; Fri – Sat 8am – 10pm

Miette

Miette is a modern, cute, sweet, pinkish and delicious pastry shop. Their cakes are impeccable and traditionally American, which are birthday-party perfect. Besides cakes and cookies, Miette also bakes French macarons, with delicate and elegant flavors like rose, chocolate orange and pistachio. Miette is the French word for “crumb” and I guess it aptly describes the scale of their petite pastries displayed in their minimal yet charming decorations.

1 Ferry Building Ste 10, San Francisco, CA 94111
Tel: (415) 837 0300
Mon to Fri 9am – 7pm
Sat: 8am – 7pm
Sun: 10am – 5pm

Hai Ky Mi Gia

This Chinese and Vietnamese eating house at downtown San Francisco cooks noodles that taste a lot like the Bakmie in those shop houses in my hometown, Jakarta. Hai Ky Mi Gia is famous for its braised duck noodle, in which the fall-off-the-bone meat from the duck is so tender and the spices used to braise the duck is just spot on. Besides consistency and authenticity in their food, the portions are good for sharing too with very reasonable prices.

707 Ellis St (between Larkin St & Polk St)
San Francisco, CA 94109
Tel: (415) 771 2577
Daily (except Wed): 8am – 6pm

About the writer
Anlin Melina is a Business Administration and Economics student at the University of California, Berkeley, who likes travelling and writing during her free time. Melina has recently completed writing her first book, titled “Once Upon A Blue Sky”, which is a travel guide book on cities in the United States.

Renowned for its cool summers, fog, steep rolling hills, eclectic mix of architecture and historic cable cars, San Francisco is inarguably one of the most beautiful cities in the United States. With only 49 square miles, it is one of the most compact and walk-able cities in the world (yes, the hills can be a good walk too).

Although one could walk around the entire city, roaming from neighborhood to neighborhood, in just one day, fret not as you can always find every aspect to suit your travel persona here such that you’ll never want to leave this gorgeous place.

Here is a list of some of my favorite things to do in San Francisco that will make you leave your heart in the city.

1. Find your treasure at the Treasure Island

Just like what the name implies, Treasure Island is a treasure in itself – a treasure that gives the best night scenery of San Francisco and the Bay Bridge. It is my favorite secret hideout in the secluded part of the Bay Area, like a private little heaven where one can gaze at the thousands of little yellow lights across the bay that seem like stars in the night sky, which have descended into the earth.

2. Hop on the historic cable car

Although it’s true that only tourists would spend time queuing up for cable car rides to get around the city, the cable cars in San Francisco is an attraction in itself and in my opinion, the best way to get amazing views of the city. My favorite cable car route is the Powell-Hyde line that heads north to Fisherman’s Wharf area and then descends south to the bustling Market Street while passing by some of San Francisco’s scenic jaunts.

3. Shop for local products at the Ferry Building Farmer’s Market

The Ferry Building is a Beaux Art architecture that is located near one of the piers. It holds famer’s market every Tuesday, Thursday and Saturday morning where farmers around the Bay Area set up stalls to sell their fresh seasonal products.

The vendors are very enthusiastic about their products and they are more than glad to introduce their food to you. My favorites in the farmer’s market are the stone fruits, chocolates, jams and honey.

4. Watch a musical performance at the War Memorial Opera House

The War Memorial Opera House is home to San Francisco Opera and San Francisco Ballet Company, and is a host to a variety of events and performances, like The Nutcracker and Cinderella. The elegantly decorated place in the French Renaissance style era has a refurbished interior that is graced with state-of-the-art equipment. And the selling point of watching a performance here is the tickets are priced at a lower rate than in Singapore and of course, the overall ambience is different and magical.

5. Have a drink at the nostalgic Buena Vista Café

There is a popular myth that the Irish Coffee (a cocktail consisting of hot coffee and Irish whiskey) was invented here at the Buena Vista Café. Regardless if it was true or not, getting a glass of Irish Coffee has become a San Francisco must-do thing on your checklist, simply because their Irish Coffee is delicious and iconic. It is also entertaining just to watch the venerable tenders pour up to ten whiskey-laden coffees at a time while you sip gently into the timeless cocktail.

About the writer
Anlin Melina is a Business Administration and Economics student at the University of California, Berkeley, who likes travelling and writing during her free time. Melina has recently completed writing her first book, titled “Once Upon A Blue Sky”, which is a travel guide book on cities in the United States.

Besides its sunny beaches with warm golden sand and sapphire blue water, Hawaii is also famous for its local cuisine that has a distinct character and taste to it. If you happened to be around Waikiki, do remember to take a walk to the eastern end of Waikiki to a small local neighbourhood called Kapahulu – a home to some of Honolulu’s best and delicious local food.

Here is a list of restaurants and bakeries to try for you to spend an afternoon down the flavourful Kapahulu Avenue.

Rainbow Drive-In

With over 50 years of experience, Rainbow Drive-In is the place to go for the best and cheapest local Hawaiian food like plate lunches and Loco Moco. Loco Moco is a dish that has beef patty served on top of rice, topped with fried egg and poured with a local brown sauce. The dish may be simple but it certainly is a sumptuous and satisfying meal.

3308 Kanaina Ave
Honolulu, HI 96815
Tel: (808) 737 0177
Mon to Sun: 7am – 9pm

Ono Hawaiian

“Ono” means delicious in Hawaiian. This famous Ono Hawaiian restaurant along Kapahulu Avenue is a small dining place that is always crowded, especially during lunchtime. The owners are islanders who originated from Japan and they cook very authentic local food like the Kulua Pork, Lomi Salmon and Buttermilk Fish. They would be happy to introduce their food to you, give recommendations and even teach you how to eat, like what to eat the Pupu (Hawaiian version of rice) with.

726 Kaphulu Avenue
Honolulu, HI 96816
Tel: (808) 737 2275
Mon to Sat: 11am – 8pm

Ono Seafood

This little blue and white painted house serves the freshest Japanese sashimi in Hawaiian style. Their menu is really simple and it is easy to order. They are well known for their Tuna Poke that comes in Shoyu sauce, Kimchi or Wasabi and all of them are so appetizing and tasty. You have the option to buy the Poke by weight or with the rice bowl set in which you can choose either white or brown rice. The portions are generous and most importantly, the price is really cheap.

747 Kapahulu Ave Apt 4
Honolulu, HI 96816
Tel: (808) 732 4806
Mon, Wed t0 Sat: 9am – 6pm
Sun 10am – 3pm

Waiola Shave Ice

The best way to cool yourself down after wandering about the sunny island under the cheerful sunshine is by getting yourself a cold, refreshing and tasty shaved ice. The shaved ice from Waiola is so soft and fluffy, and all of them are topped with condensed milk. There are a variety of Hawaiian flavors to choose from, like Haupiah and Guava, but they are known for their Azuki Bowl, which is shaved ice with Azuki beans and Mochi bits.

2135 Waiola St,
Honolulu, HI 96826
Tel: (808) 949 2269
Mon to Sat: 7.30am – 6.30pm
Sun 10am – 6.30pm

Leonard’s Bakery

Leonard’s Bakery is most famous for its old fashioned, traditional and an amalgam of Hawaiian and Portuguese style donuts that are called Malasadas. Their Malasadas comes in two different forms – holes and without holes – which come in five different flavors – original, chocolate, coconut, caramel and haupiah.

The bakery bakes Malasadas all day long so the donuts are warm and fresh. You will notice right away that the bakery has been here for a really long time from the appearance of the shop that gives you a “grandmother’s bakery” feel. This place is perfect for some sweet bites after a savory meal around the area.

933 Kapahulu Ave
Honolulu, HI 96816
Tel: (808) 737 5591
Mon to Thu, Sun: 5.30am – 9pm
Fri to Sat: 5.30am – 10pm

About the writer
Anlin Melina is a Business Administration and Economics student at the University of California, Berkeley. She was born in Indonesia, educated in Singapore and is currently living in the San Francisco Bay Area. She speaks and writes in English, Chinese, Indonesian and French, and likes travelling and writing during her free time. Melina has recently completed writing her first book, titled “Once Upon A Blue Sky”, which is a travel guide book on cities in the United States.