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A Feisty Fusion: From Tea Houses to Cantonese Roast Duck - A Travel Diary Across Asia
Here comes a new article in my travel diary dedicated to all those food and travel enthusiasts who also enjoy a pulsating love story or two. Today we're exploring the ten most romantic places in Asia, devouring Cantonese Roast Duck, savoring a cuppa at traditional tea houses, and delving into the nitty-gritty of food sourcing.
We kick off our culinary travels at the heart of Beijing's old quarters. Here, in the midst of historic 'hutongs', a traditional tea house offers a serene escape. Seated on low wooden stools, sipping on jasmine tea, you witness the enactments of the ancient Peking Opera, a quintessential Beijing experience spiced with romance.
Next on our list is the Duck de Chine, known for its famous Cantonese Roast Duck. Within its rustic warehouses is debatably the best iteration of this dish. The preparation is poetic, from sourcing ducks from a specialist farm, meticulously air-drying them for 24 hours, to using aged jujube wood for roasting. The result? A crackling roast duck that melts in your mouth, and an unforgettable culinary delight.
Speaking of food sourcing, Asia sets a prime example of responsible and sustainable practices. Over the years, I've noticed a focus on 'farm-to-table' in Asia. Food sourcing is not just about tracing the product to its origin; it's about supporting local producers, ensuring high-quality ingredients, and promoting sustainable farming.
We now embark on a whirlwind romance, visiting the ten most romantic places in Asia. Watch heart-shaped sunsets at the Radhanagar Beach in Havelock Island, India. Feel the rush of love in Bali, Indonesia, amidst its volcanic mountains and iconic rice paddies. Discover the tranquil tea gardens in Cameron Highlands, Malaysia, and build sandcastles of dreams on the pristine beaches of El Nido, Philippines.
In the splashing rains of Chiang Mai, Thailand, create your love story while tasting local street food. Rediscover your partner amidst the buzzing night markets of Taipei, Taiwan. The winter illuminations of Hokkaido, Japan, will keep your love aglow.
Getting lost in old quarters of Hoi An, Vietnam, spells romance with its historic structures. Walk down the love lane, exploring heritage sites in Seoul, South Korea. Lastly, let the scenic beauty of Luang Prabang, Laos, wrap you in its loving arms.
As we end today's chapter in the travel diary, let's cherish the shared experiences - the candle-lit dinners, the stolen kisses, the ancient tea houses, the succulent Cantonese Roast Duck, and the breath-taking beauty of Asia. These are the stories that bring us closer together, stirring our passion for travel, food, and most importantly, love.
Stay tuned as we continue to embark on this gastronomic love affair across various countries, exploring local food-sourcing practices, and finding love amidst travel.