I would like to chat about food today again, I was looking into plant-based foods and wanted to see where are the best options for it, I did some digging and here it is.
Several cities and countries are well known for their exceptional plant-based food scenes.
Here are three destinations known for their plant-based food offerings:
Los Angeles, California, USA: Los Angeles has a thriving plant-based food scene, with numerous vegan and vegetarian restaurants and cafes. You can find a wide range of plant-based cuisines, from vegan tacos and burgers to gourmet plant-based dining. The city’s health-conscious culture and diverse population contribute to its vibrant plant-based food culture.
Berlin, Germany: Berlin has gained a reputation as one of Europe’s top cities for vegans and vegetarians. The city offers an array of vegan eateries, ranging from traditional German dishes with a vegan twist to international cuisine. The vegan street food scene in Berlin is particularly popular, with many food markets and vendors catering to plant-based diets.
Plant based sandwich
Tel Aviv, Israel: Tel Aviv is known for its vegetarian-friendly culture and diverse plant-based dining options. It’s not uncommon to find vegan versions of traditional Middle Eastern dishes like falafel and hummus. The city’s sunny climate and access to fresh produce contribute to its thriving vegan and vegetarian scene.
Yes, the popularity of plant-based diets has been growing worldwide, and many other cities and countries have developed vibrant plant-based food scenes.
And what do you think? Maybe you have experienced lots of options for vegan, plant-based food offerings in a city or country.
Let me know, and drop a comment, I would love to add that to this post.
Today I like to chat about food in Lisbon, Portugal. It is such a good feeling to try food you have never eaten in a country you have never been to, and then when you home, you have great memories and this feeling I call it Travel Energy.
Let’s see.
Lisbon is not only a city of historic neighborhoods and stunning beaches, but it’s also a food lover’s paradise. From traditional Portuguese dishes to fusion cuisine, there’s something for everyone when it comes to eating and drinking in Lisbon.
One of the must-try foods in Lisbon is the famous seafood. From freshly grilled sardines to clams cooked in garlic and wine, the seafood in Lisbon is some of the best you’ll ever taste. I highly recommend trying it at one of the many seafood restaurants in the city, such as Cervejaria Ramiro or O Assobiador.
Fresh Kiwi juice Lisbon
If you’re looking for something a little more substantial, then try one of the many traditional Portuguese dishes. From cozido à portuguesa (a hearty stew) to bacalhau (salted cod), there’s no shortage of delicious options. For a truly authentic experience, head to the Mercado da Ribeira, where you can try a range of Portuguese specialties in a bustling market setting.
When it comes to snacking in Lisbon, there are plenty of options to keep you going throughout the day. From freshly baked pastéis de nata (custard tarts) to bolinhos de bacalhau (salt cod fritters), there’s something for everyone. And, of course, there are also plenty of coffee shops and bakeries where you can grab a quick bite and a coffee to fuel your sightseeing.
Regarding drinks, Lisbon has plenty of options to quench your thirst. From refreshing local beers to crisp white wines, there’s something for everyone. I particularly, when I go to a warm country, enjoy the freshly squeezed fruit juice from local fruits, it is very refreshing, with a tropical sweetness taste and then I’m trying to feel like a local there, to feel the energy and vibe of the town, the people.
Overall, the food, snacks, and drinks in Lisbon are a big part of what makes this city so special. Whether you’re looking for traditional Portuguese cuisine or something a little more contemporary, you’re sure to find something that you love. I can’t wait to go back and taste more of Lisbon’s fantastic food and drinks.
Do you ever wonder why traveling is so incredibly fun? 🌍✈️
Exploring our Earth is more than just visiting new places; it’s a journey of self-discovery, cultural immersion, and pure excitement. Here’s why traveling is an absolute blast:
Adventure Awaits: Every trip is an adventure waiting to happen. Whether it’s hiking through lush forests, diving into crystal-clear waters, or exploring bustling city streets, there’s always something new to discover.
Cultural Richness: Traveling exposes you to diverse cultures, traditions, and cuisines. The thrill of trying exotic foods, meeting locals, and learning about different ways of life is unparalleled.
Memorable Moments: Travel creates lasting memories that you’ll cherish forever. From awe-inspiring sunsets to spontaneous encounters with wildlife, these moments are etched in your heart.
Escape from Routine: Traveling breaks the monotony of daily life. It offers a break from your routine, allowing you to relax, rejuvenate, and return with a fresh perspective.
Personal Growth: Exploring new places challenges you to step out of your comfort zone, fostering personal growth and boosting self-confidence.
New Friends: Traveling often leads to unexpected friendships. Whether it’s sharing stories with fellow travelers or connecting with locals, you’ll meet incredible people along the way.
Unpredictability: The unpredictability of travel adds an element of thrill. It’s the feeling of not knowing what’s around the next corner that keeps you excited.
Beautiful Landscapes: Nature’s beauty is a major part of travel’s allure. From mountains to beaches, deserts to forests, the world is a stunning masterpiece waiting to be explored.
Awe-Inspiring History: Traveling allows you to walk in the footsteps of history. Visiting ancient ruins, historical landmarks, and museums provides a sense of connection to the past.
Freedom and Independence: Traveling gives you the freedom to set your own itinerary, make spontaneous decisions, and embrace the spirit of independence.
So, if you’ve ever questioned why traveling is fun, remember that it’s not just about the destinations; it’s about the incredible journey and experiences that come with it. Pack your bags, embark on an adventure, and let the fun begin! 🌎🌟
Lisbon is one of the most dynamic destinations in Portugal for those seeking an active-style vacation. The city’s unique hilly terrain, historic neighborhoods, and street art offer ample opportunities for outdoor activities such as hiking and cycling.
Visitors are drawn to Lisbon’s charming atmosphere, which is evident in its cobblestone streets and colorful buildings. The city’s hills provide a picturesque workout environment while exploring the city.
One of the most enjoyable experiences in Lisbon is hiking through its historic neighborhoods, starting at the Bairro Alto and making one’s way down to the Baixa-Chiado district. Along the way, stunning city views and famous street art can be admired.
Cycling is also a popular pastime in Lisbon due to its flat terrain, numerous bike lanes, and dedicated bike paths, providing a safe and enjoyable way to see the city. Taking a bike tour is a highly recommended way to see all of the city’s sights and get a workout at the same time.
Lisbon offers something for everyone seeking an active and exciting vacation, whether hiking, cycling, or simply exploring a new city. It is a must-visit destination for anyone looking for an unforgettable experience.
Lisbon is not only a city of hills and historic neighborhoods, but it also has some of the most beautiful beaches in Portugal. If you’re looking for an active-style vacation with a coastal twist, then Lisbon’s beaches are the perfect destination.
One of the best things about Lisbon’s beaches is the variety of activities on offer. From surfing and stand-up paddleboarding to beach volleyball and soccer, there’s something for everyone. I particularly enjoy stand-up paddleboarding, as it’s a great workout and a fun way to explore the coastline.
Surf surf surf … repeat
One of my favorite beaches in Lisbon is Carcavelos Beach, located just a short train ride from the city center. This beach is known for its great waves, making it a popular spot for surfers. But even if you’re not a surfer, the beach is still a great place to spend the day, with plenty of restaurants and cafes to choose from.
Another great beach in Lisbon is Praia do Guincho, located a little further from the city but worth the trip. This beach is known for its strong winds, making it a popular destination for windsurfers and kitesurfers. It’s also a great place for a walk along the sand or a picnic on the grassy dunes.
Overall, Lisbon’s beaches offer a great blend of activities, scenery, and relaxation. Whether you’re a seasoned surfer or just looking for a place to soak up the sun, there’s a beach in Lisbon that’s perfect for you. I can’t wait to go back and explore more of these amazing stretches of sand and sea.
CINCINNATI – University of Cincinnati junior point guard Akira Levy earned a spot on the American Athletic Conference weekly honor roll, announced Monday afternoon.
It is her second award of the season so far; she previously earned Player of the Week honors on Nov. 15th.
It is the second straight week a Bearcat has made the weekly honor roll, as sophomore forward Malea Williams earned the honor Dec. 13th.
In the road win over Chattanooga Wednesday, she recorded 14 points, 5 assists, 3 steals, and one block in 36 minutes of play.
In 48 minutes of play in the 87-77 double overtime win over NC A&T, she scored a new season and career high both in points (22) and assists (12), which also marked her first double-double of the season. The 12 assists also tied her for third in the UC all-time list. Levy was also a perfect 11-for-11 from the free throw line, with both made and attempts a new season and career high and also tied her in fourth on the UC all-time list.
UP NEXT
The Bearcats travel to Milwaukee, Wisconsin to face-off against Marquette University in the last game before the holiday season on Wednesday, Dec. 22. Tip-off is set for 2 p.m. ET / 1 p.m. CT.
Travel rules may have tightened around the world, but many people are still jetting off to reunite with loved ones after long stretches of time apart. Though rules to do with Covid are constantly changing, one thing that is likely to remain the same is the baggage restrictions put in place by individual airlines.
Make sure you understand the hand luggage rules for your carrier
Hand luggage rules vary vastly from airline to airline, with some allowing larger or heavier bags to be brought onboard than others.
This is why Mr Ewart says it is vital you understand exactly what your airline permits before beginning the packing process.
He said: “Firstly, double-check with your airline what size of hand luggage you are allowed.
“Many of us may be flying this Christmas for the first time in a while and what some people may have missed is that over the last couple of years airlines, such as easyJet and Ryanair, have stopped including traditional sized hand luggage with their basic fares.
“Fliers are often surprised to find their ticket now only includes a small bag which fits under the seat in front.”
In the event your hand luggage is too big, your airline may require you to pay to check it in.
Ryanair, for example, will charge between £23.99 and £35.99 for those who need to check-in a 10kg back at the last minute.
This cost grows to between £39.99 and £59.99 if the bag weighs more than 20kg.
When it comes to December travel, Christmas presents could be the items that are tipping your baggage over the scale.
While paying for additional luggage is certainly one option, for a smaller amount of gifts, Mr Ewart let Express.co.uk in on a rather “cheeky” tip.
He said: “It’s a bit cheeky, but if you’re bringing new but unwrapped items as gifts, why not carry them through the airport in a shopping bag belonging to a shop you know is in the airport?”
Pack outfits you can wear more than once
During the Christmas season, it can be tempting to go overboard with party wear. While this may offer diversity for your festive photoshoots, it’s likely to weigh heavily on your luggage allowance.
This is where a capsule-style wardrobe can come in.
Mr Ewart said: “Consider travelling with items that have duplicate purposes, rather than packing pyjamas, shorts or t-shirts used in bed could also be used for travel or for a workout.”
He added: “If you’re packing spare shoes, the space inside can offer protection for smaller items or be filled with socks.”
Don’t go overboard on cosmetics and toiletries
Toiletries and make-up, even when below the 100ml guidelines, can add unnecessary weight to your hand luggage.
Mr Ewart said: “If you’re going for more than a few days and are checking luggage, don’t pack shampoos and shower gels – buy after you fly.
“If you’re travelling to a hotel you may not even need to buy shampoo and shower gel.”
Even if your airline does not weigh cabin bags, though, make-up and perfume bottles can take up a chunk of space.
Instead, Mr Ewart advises portioning out exactly how much you need and using travel-size containers.
The expert explained: “If you’re only travelling for a few days, instead of carrying a makeup bag, put foundation and similar cosmetics in old contact lenses cases.”
The Minnesota Gophers passed their first big test as Luke Loewe’s tip-in with 2.4 seconds remaining helped Minnesota defeat Pittsburgh 54-53 on Tuesday night.
The Gopher offense was inconsistent throughout the first half as both teams struggled to get a bucket. After going into the first media timeout with a 2-0 lead, Minnesota started to find a rhythm by attacking the rim.
Payton Willis and Jamison Battle benefitted early from this, scoring seven points each in the first half but Pittsburgh got back into the game with their size in the paint.
John Hugley was a big problem for the Gophers, putting up 25 points and 14 rebounds on the night and helping Pitt race out to an eight-point lead in the second half.
Battle got the Gophers back into the game by scoring eight straight points to tie the game at 44 with just over eight minutes remaining. Despite his team-high 16 points on the night, Hugley’s dominance in the paint opened things up for the Panthers.
With a couple of timely buckets, Pitt built a 53-50 lead in the final minute. After a tip-in by Eric Curry cut the lead to one point, the Gophers got a stop and had a chance to win the game with 7.4 seconds.
Willis took the inbound for Minnesota and went to the rim but his missed shot was cleaned up by Loewe for his only basket of the night. A half-court heave by the Panthers fell short and the Gophers survived to improve to 6-0.
Minnesota will look to stay undefeated when they travel to Mississippi State on Sunday for its last game before winter break.
There’s never a bad time to visit New York, but with the US now open again to visitors from the UK and Europe and Thanksgiving taking place next week, hotel prices have shot up. Luckily, The City That Never Sleeps also doesn’t hibernate. So while the warmer months are wonderful for eating al-fresco or rooftop cocktails, winter is just as lively. From ice-skating in Central Park (1) to pictures by the Rockefeller Christmas Tree (2), the festive season in the world’s most filmed city always delivers some movie magic. The pandemic has seen the city embrace all-season outdoor dining. Each restaurant has its own take on the dining hut, with some streets bursting with diners eating below wooden cframes and plastic tarp.
Where to stay
Pendry Manhattan West (3) (pendry.com) opened in September, bringing SoCal cool to the edge of Manhattan’s luxury new riverside district, Hudson Yards. Its raison d’être as a high- end sanctuary apart from Manhattan matches that of the high-rise new development that it borders. There’s a rooftop bar, Peloton gym (guests can order the bikes to their room), Eastern Med restaurant Zou Zous, and the Garden Room – a relaxed, leafy space for light bites and evening cocktails. The building’s rippling glass façade is meant to evoke Pacific waves, while inside it’s contemporary-cool with fireplaces and an attention to the art of great lighting, especially at exclusive Bar Pendry. Doubles from $514 (£379).
Henn na Hotel (4) (hennnahotelny.com) – “Strange Hotel” in Japanese – opened its doors to families and tech-nerds in October. It’s the first US outpost of a Tokyo classic, where guests are checked in by an animatronic T-Rex. Rooms at the Midtown hotel have cupboards that will clean and steam your clothes. Japanese breakfast lunch and dinner is at onsite sushi restaurant Gosuke. Doubles from $135 (£100).
How to get around
Contactless payments are now accepted across the MTA, making bus and metro travel a breeze (just tap once on the way in). Masks are mandatory and unlike London, everyone follows the rules. Above ground, Uber and Lyft were once king but with the pandemic prompting a boom in new cycle-lanes, the Citi Bike ride share scheme is now a real alternative for tourists. Find the docked cycles on almost every block – ebikes were introduced just before the pandemic – then unlock with the Citi Bike or Lyft app (from $3.50 for the first half hour). You must show your NHS Covid Pass to enter public indoor areas, including museums, restaurants and bars.
Saturday
Start the day
Grab a stool at the bar at Baz Bagel (5) (bazbagel.com) for Jewish comfort food, with retro vibes – think diner style seating and Barbara Streisand on the stereo. The Little Italy institution does one of the city’s best lox salmon and cream cheese bagels.
Don’t miss
City Climb (edgenyc.com), New York’s stomach-dropping new attraction has just opened at the top of 30 Hudson Yards (6), the city’s 6th tallest building. For the world’s highest open air building ascent, thrill-seekers climb out onto the roof and hike 161 steps to the tip of the building. After admiring, or trying desperately to ignore, the view the final test is to dangle nearly 400 metres above the sidewalk below. Higher than the Empire State Building or The Shard, the skyscraper also has Edge, the highest observation deck in the Western Hemisphere that protrudes from the building at 100 storeys high for spectacular views over New York City and beyond from the west.
The Edge NYC at sunset (Photo: Related-Oxford)
In Fort Greene, Brooklyn, the Museum of Contemporary African Diasporan Art (7) (mocada.org) focuses primarily on social justice through its public art exhibitions, by artists such as Caribbean-American Theda Sandiford. Open Fri-Sun, $10 (£7.50).
Time for a drink
The Garret in the West Village (thegarretwest.com) is, according to owner Gavin Moseley, “the best secret everyone knows about”. A spot to impress your partner with, the secret speakeasy is above a Five Guys on Bleecker Street (8). Enter the burger chain outlet and walk past the counter to a staircase that leads up to a hidden cocktail bar.
Dinner reservation
Forget the reservation, and head out on a pizza-slice crawl of the Village. Joe’s Pizza (9), the Greenwich Village institution on the corner at Bleecker and Carmine has been serving the classic New York slice for more than 37 years. For more toppings, see Bleecker Street Pizza (10), named best pizza in New York City three years running. Its chicken, bacon and ranch contains so much caramelised meat it would keep its form without the dough.
Sunday
Go for a stroll
In the 12 years since opening, The High Line (11) – a park built on a disused elevated rail line – has flourished, with tree-lined sections at their fiery best in autumn. Traverse a mile and a half of Manhattan’s west side without ever stopping at a “crosswalk”, starting at Hudson Yards and finishing at the new Little Island park (12) (littleisland.org). Built atop 132 giant flower-shaped concrete “tulips” planted in the Hudson River, the park opened in May on the site of the storm-damaged Pier 55. There are lawns, paths, plants, viewing points and a 700-odd seat amphitheatre (free bookings mandatory in Spring and Summer).
Brunch break
Thai Diner (13) (thaidiner.com) is the new place to be on Mott St, Chinatown’s unofficial Main Street. The menu fuses American comfort food with Thai favourites while its bamboo-panelled walls and framed pictures of the late Thai King are Bangkok kitsch. Leave room for the extensive, diner-inspired dessert menu.
Wollman Rink in Central Park (Photo: NYC & Company)
Time to relax
Hop on a Citi Bike to explore the full scale of Central Park and find a quiet spot by one of its eight lakes. A six-mile cycle loop around the park gives you a feel for its scale (twice the size of London’s Regent’s Park).
Have a treat
Stop at Rice to Riches (14) (richtoriches.com) near Spring St Station for a rice pudding that’ll put nan’s Ambrosia to shame. Bowlfuls of the gloopy stuff are dished up in wacky flavours including Sex Drugs and Rocky Road, and Hazelnut Chocolate Bearhug.
Trains from Grand Central Station (15) to the seaside city of Milford, Connecticut take 1 hour 45. On the walk to Silver Sands State Park, pass homes on stilts built on the beach to defy the tides, then take a dip in the sea or wander the coastal park’s trails and boardwalks. Don’t miss the lobster rolls at Seven Seas or fully loaded hotdogs at Jake’s Diggity Dogs. For small town America, hop on a bus from New York Port Authority (16) to the village of New Paltz. Visitors to the Hudson Valley settlement can step back in time to America in the 1700s on Historic Huguenot Street or hike the S hawangunk Mountains.
Ask a local
Jennie Ng, Nurse
“Nitehawk Cinema (nitehawkcinema.com) in Williamsburg is my favourite. Old-ish, you can drink cocktails, order burgers and all sorts while you watch a movie. The theatre plays new, indie, and old school films. The last thing I watched there was Fear with Mark Wahlberg and Reese Witherspoon – part of the theatre’s erotic 90s thriller series.”
CHICAGO — — There is no secret to Lonzo Ball‘s improved 3-point shooting. He put the work in, and it’s paying off.
He has come a long way from long distance.
“It’s night and day now,” he said.
Ball made seven of Chicago’s 15 3-pointers and Zach LaVine scored 23 points, powering the Bulls to a 117-107 victory over the Dallas Mavericks on Wednesday night.
Ball went 7 for 10 from deep and finished with 21 points. He is shooting 44.7% from beyond the arc in his first year with the Bulls, continuing his steady rise from shooting 30.5% from 3 during his rookie season in 2017-18 with the Lakers.
“He deserves a lot of credit,” Bulls coach Billy Donovan said. “He’s put in an incredible amount of work to get himself to that level.”
Five players scored in double figures for Chicago during its second consecutive victory. Nikola Vucevic had 18 points and 10 rebounds, and DeMar DeRozan finished with 17 points.
Dallas had won three straight and four of five overall, but couldn’t keep up with LaVine and Chicago in the second half. Kristaps Porzingis had 22 points and 12 rebounds for the Mavericks, and Luka Doncic finished with 20 points, 10 assists and eight rebounds.
“I should take better shots,” said Doncic, who was 6 for 18 from the field. “I know I always say this, but honestly, I’ve got to do it, not just say it. I’ve got to be better.”
Dallas trailed by seven in the third quarter before Doncic wrapped the ball around his back and then lobbed to Dwight Powell for a jam over Vucevic with 3:29 left. The play drew an “ooohhh” from the United Center crowd of 20,910, but the rest of the period belonged to Chicago.
Alex Caruso converted a three-point play and made a jumper to give the Bulls a 95-80 lead after three. The reserve guard finished with 16 points on 6-for-7 shooting.
“I just tried to be aggressive when I had the ball and shots went in,” Caruso said.
Chicago was never seriously threatened in the fourth, and LaVine punctuated the win when he got an overhead pass from Ball and finished a 360-degree dunk with 1:50 remaining.
“The Bulls are back, man. That’s all I can say,” said Tim Hardaway Jr., who scored 21 points for Dallas.
Doncic’s free throw gave the Mavericks a 51-48 lead with 4:46 left in the second quarter, but the Bulls closed the first half with a 13-3 run. LaVine opened the spurt with a 3-pointer and a dunk.
“Right there before half, with two minutes left, they went on a run, and we just couldn’t recover from that,” Dallas coach Jason Kidd said.
TIP-INS
Mavericks: F Maxi Kleber (left oblique strain) missed his fifth straight game. Kidd said Kleber is doing better. “I don’t think we’ve got to the seven- or 10-day mark yet,” Kidd said. “But once we get there, I think I can give you a better update.”
Bulls: G Coby White (offseason left shoulder surgery) practiced with the team’s G League affiliate Tuesday. Donovan said White will have another workout on Thursday. “If things progress we’re hopeful at some point maybe on that West Coast swing that he’d be available to play,” Donovan said. The Bulls open a five-game trip at Golden State on Friday night. … F Patrick Williams (left wrist) will not travel with the team on its upcoming road trip, Donovan said.
UP NEXT
Mavericks: At the San Antonio Spurs on Friday for their third meeting already this season. The Mavericks took the first two, winning 104-99 on Oct. 28 and 109-108 last week.
Bulls: At Golden State on Friday night. The Bulls have dropped eight in a row against the Warriors.
