Is Youtiao the Ancestor of Churros?
Churros are very much a part of the Filipino Christmas and we're sure that they were introduced to the islands by Spain. …
History
Is Omurice Japanese or Korean?
Omurice, or omelette rice, is a Japanese rice-and-egg dish that fuses local cuisine with the Westerner's love for …
There is no Crab Meat in Crab Sticks
If you're allergic to crabs (or all crustaceans) and wondered why eating kani (crab sticks) never made you sick, it's …
Which Tastes Better: Dragon Fruit with White or Magenta Flesh?
Dragon fruit, a cactus in the genus Hylocereus, grows in tropical countries. It gets its name from the appearance of its …
Mangoes in Asian Cuisines
Mango. Our favorite fruit here at home. Whenever we talk about moving to another country, my younger daughter, Alex, …
The Vietnam War Through the Eyes of the Vietnamese
In March 2019, my daughter, Alex, and I visited Saigon. On the fourth day of our trip, I suggested adding the War …
Butterfly Pea Flower Brew: From Blue to Purple
Steeping dried butterfly pea flowers in hot water yields a blue colored brew. Add lemon slices or juice and the brew …
Taiwan, the Second Time Around
It's Speedy's birthday next month and I'm giving him an early birthday gift — a trip to Taiwan.
Taipei cityscape | …
The Shōgun, Not the Emperor, Ruled Japan for Almost 700 Years
My fascination with shōguns and samurais goes way back to my childhood. While my grandfather and father spent Saturday …
How the British Addiction to Tea Shaped Hong Kong
The night before our flight to Hong Kong, I couldn’t locate my trusty old Canon Powershot G10 and I wasn’t about to …
Yes, the Manila Hotel Has Historical Significance – In An Elitist Kind of Way
We live in the suburb. So, when we drive to Manila, we consider it an out-of-town-trip. Not that the distance is great …
Bacolod Used to be San Sebastián de Magsungay
A reader asked me if, being an atheist, I don't pay particular attention to churches when traveling. Sure, I do. I have …