Every store, malls, shopping complexes, restaurants gleams with sparkling decoration. These stores and restaurants offer various couple schemes and discounts. And the gift stores buzz like a beehive.

These businesses actually take a boom as many people celebrate Valentine’s Day with extravagance and ornateness.

The couples plan grand surprises for their partners and put quite a lot of effort, time, and money to woo their partner. They want this special day to be “perfect” to express their love and affection to their partner.

Couples plan a dinner date, book spa appointments, buy expensive gifts, and many starts celebrating this V-Day a week before and send different gifts every day to their lover.

Celebrating love is virtuous, but why celebrate love only on this particular day? What about the other 365 days?

Honestly, I have never been Valentine’s Day fan. I do not understand the concept of giving gifts or expressing love on just one day of the year.

Do most of us even know why do we celebrate Valentine’s Day or the origin of this day?

I don’t think so. Mostly, people know that the day was named after St. Valentine and do not have any reliable information that can be traced down to facts.

So technically, we have no idea why we go so frenzy when February begins.

I don’t understand why it’s so much hyped in the first place!

Are we blindly doing something just because rest of the world is doing it? Don’t you feel Valentine’s Day has become a day filled with consumerism?

I have seen many people spending a huge amount of money to buy gifts and plan surprises for their partner. Valentine’s Day has become a kind of event to spend money to express love to their partners. Sure, it’s one’s personal choice. I am just of the opinion that Valentine’s Day should not be the only day to shower your loved ones with love, care, surprises, and gifts.

There is nothing wrong thinking out of the box and gifting your partner and returning favors. And if you feel Valentine’s is the best day to remind you to go extra special and it serves your purpose, go ahead! But do know, if this day brings a pressure on you or on your partner to do something special, it will surely lead to disappointment in the future.

However, I believe love is not about chocolates, teddy bears, roses, expensive jewellery; there are better ways to express love. The small gestures that spread out over the course of relationship are important than a grand celebration on just one day. What do you think about it?

For me, an element of genuine surprise, love, care and a small gesture would be more affectionate than these forced romantic rituals.

Why do I need Valentine’s Day when I can go for a candle-light dinner with my guy on any random day? When I can gift him something nice that he actually needs without any reason. When I can make him feel special by surprising him on any weekend or any day?

I prefer to express my love whenever I feel to or when it’s least expected rather when they are supposed to be done.

What’s love?

Love is when you cook for each other or head to any café in your pyjamas. When you laugh over each other’s stupid jokes, fix each other’s hair, dance with each other like crazy, go for a walk, engage in some meaningless conversation and later laugh over it.

We (my guy and me) have been spending Valentine’s Day like any other day as the vibe of this day never charmed us. It’s like any other random day for us.

We prefer to spend some quality time together, even if it’s just sitting and watching a movie or series. It’s the presence of each other that actually matters!

And it’s just not on Valentine’s Day but all the days throughout!

Valentine’s Day is totally worse for those who are single. It’s like a curse for them. People who are happily single are made to feel like shit as they are not sharing candle-light dinner with anyone, not being showered with gifts, not even getting laid in most of the cases. Seeing couples at each and every corner of the street, they cry over it.

I don’t think single people need to cry over these things as you celebrate love with your friends, family and love yourself. Celebrating love doesn’t mean you need someone to celebrate with. You can do this on any day and with any of your close and loved ones.

Isn’t it?

Celebrate love throughout the year and make your partner feel special every day, utter those lovely words every day, appreciate them often, surprise them randomly, shower them with extra love and care, support them, understand them, and spend quality time together. This is what celebrating love is all about!

The post Why Celebrate Valentine’s Day? appeared first on Amazing Things.

It’s pretty interesting how the countries prepare dishes in different ways for the same festival. It’s totally diverse. So, let’s see different Christmas food traditions all around the world.

1. Christmas Fried Chicken, Japan

Most of the Japanese families eat at KFC on the day of Christmas, they actually need to reserve their meal two months in advance. This tradition began in 1974 when KFC created an advertising campaign called “Kentucky for Christmas” and it became widely popular in Japan. Japanese people did not have any Christmas traditions, so KFC filled that void by introducing Kentucky Fried Chicken.

2. Christmas Delicacies cookies and sweets, India

The communities in India celebrate Christmas with sweets ranging from kidiyo, a deep-fried dough balls coated in icing sugar to cookies and fruitcakes. Other sweet treats that you will find in India are cardamom, almond, and cashew macarons, gulab jamuns, jalebis, and other Indian winter desserts. The main dinner generally includes biryani with lamb, mutton curry, accompanied by other Indian dishes and veggies.

3. Christmas Goose, Germany

Germans enjoy a lavish multi-course Christmas dinner. Their dinner consists of Weihnactsgans, goose, often stuffed with onions, chestnuts, prunes with different German spices, Krustenbraten, pork roasted with a crispy rind, accompanied by dumplings, red cabbage, and gravy. And finally the dessert, Weihnachtsplatzchenm, it’s a traditional platter of cookies.  This food tradition was originally tied to St. Martin’s Day, but eventually became a part of the Christmas meal.

4. Panettone, Italy

When it comes to Christmas dinner, Italy has various traditions in different regions. In some parts of Italy, people enjoy “The Feast of Seven Fishes”.  This meal includes seven different kinds of fishes prepared in seven different ways.  Sweets have their own importance when it comes to Italian food during Christmas. Italians prepare a dessert called, Panettone- a cake with candied fruits, chocolates, and raisins, and nuts. This is the most popular one and other sweets include marzipan, zeppole, pondor and many more delicacies.

5. Plum Pudding, England

Plum Pudding is a key Christmas dessert in England. Do not delude by its name, as the pudding does not actually include plum. In Pre-Victorian era, plums were referred to raisins, and as dried fruits are important ingredients of this recipe, it is how it earned its name. This Christmas pudding is set alight with brandy before it is served.

6. Three-course meal and Saffron buns, Sweden

Christmas dinner in Sweden is served as a three-course meal, knows as “Julboard”. The first course includes fish, pickled herring, the second involves Christmas ham along with sausages. And the last meal covers metaballs and potato casserole called Janssons Frestelse.

As we know without dessert, no meal is complete. So, the Swedish prepare saffron buns, it’s a popular rice pudding, yellow in color as saffron is used. Saffrons buns are served to the family by the eldest daughters, by tradition. But, you sure can try your hands making these sweet saffron buns.

7. United States

Christmas dinner in the US varies from one household to the other and it is generally similar to that of Thanksgiving. The meal generally includes ham and turkey with different stuffing, gravy, mashed potatoes, and vegetables. Christmas cookies and pies are equally popular among the US people. There is plenty of booze-spiked eggnogs as well to wash it all down.

8. Portugal

The Portuguese fast on Christmas Eve, following the Catholic tradition. On the day of Christmas, they prepare Bacalhau, or salt cod which is a main staple Christmas dinner. This is accompanied with boiled eggs, boiled cabbage, and boiled potatoes. The Portuguese love desserts so the list is endless. Some of the desserts served are biscoitos de natal-Christmas cookies and leite de creme-an egg custard.

Every country has their own food tradition and their way of preparation and celebration.

So, what meals or treats are you planning for this Christmas? Do share with us in the comment section below about your Christmas delicacies.

We wish you all Bon Appetit and A Merry Christmas !

Also read : Best Places for Fusion Food

The post Christmas Delicacies around the World appeared first on Amazing Things.

Here is the list of budget friendly destinations in Asia.

1. India

India is the place to cover diverse culture and out of the world experience. It’s a package of natural beauty, adventure, serene atmosphere, beach parties, and nightlife. And I don’t think I need to say about the range of cuisine that India offers. You will have an amazing gastronomical experience. You will get everything you want on a trip. But you should have enough time to travel India. And it depends what kind of trip you are actually looking for. Each state has its own uniqueness. Being an Indian, India will be always on top of budget friendly destinations list.

2. Malaysia

The landscapes in Malaysia are to die-for. You can enjoy the white sand islands with a perfect mix of party and a chilled beer or any of your favourite drink and relax. You will love the amazing Cameron Highlands and Selangor, the lush rain forests and delicate wildlife of East Malaysian Borneo and beyond. See it, live it, and you will fall in love with it!

3. Indonesia

Are you looking for a place that offers you white sand beaches, lush jungles, and natural rain forests? Indonesia is the perfect destination for you!

Did you know Indonesia has more than 17,500 islands, and 300 different ethnic groups, speaking over 700 different languages? I was surprised by the facts. So, what are you waiting for? Plan your trip soon to find something new!

4. Sri Lanka

This destination has lots to offer, from surfing hotspots to delicious food, and historical sites that are a must-visit for history lovers. Sri Lanka is slowly making its name amongst the best budget-friendly places. You can enjoy a quality experience without spending much.

You can check out the UNESCO World Heritage Site Galle fort in Colombo and do try all the street food, its delectable! Must try: samosas and kottu roti

5. Laos

Laos is often overlooked, jammed as it is between Thailand and Vietnam. But it’s a perfect choice if you are a budget traveller looking for a more authentic vibe. The new improved infrastructure has made Laos more accessible, making it in the top pick of the list.

Laos is sparsely populated, mountainous with around 70% forest coverage and if you like trekking kayaking, zip lining, climbing, and any other such activities, Laos is the place for you. You can enjoy these activities within your budget for sure!

6. Nepal

Nepal gives you an incredible view of some of the highest peaks on earth, diverse culture, friendly people, delicious delicacies, splendid wildlife, and adventures. The country has some of the best of everything that every type of traveller would surely love!

Nepal is one of the best budgets travel destinations to look out for.  A visit to Nepal is not only a culturally or naturally rewarding experience but also one that will not drain your pockets unduly and is acknowledged as one of the best destinations to visit in your lifetime!

7. Thailand

Popular? Very much. It’s one of the budget-friendly places to travel.  Head all the way to Northern Thailand to the Chiang Ma region, you will get the best-value accommodation.

With its lush jungles, famed beaches, amazing food, Thailand is one the best countries to visit. The country is a well-worn destination on the backpacking trail and everything is so convenient and easy. When you hear its name, you already have thoughts about beaches, beauty, shopping, and food. So, plan for it!

8. Vietnam

Vietnam is a country of breath-taking natural beauty with a unique heritage, astonishingly exotic and utterly compelling. The stunning and varied geography, amazing cuisine, plentiful beaches, and endless shopping centres are all reasons to travel to the country.

Eat local and you will not spend more than a few dollars per meal, with locally brewed beer. It’s amazing! And yes, do not forget try out Spa, you will love it!

Cambodia, Bhutan, Philippines, can also be terrific budget friendly destinations in Asia. Exploring Asia is not a costly-affair after all if you plan a trip prudently

Asia has been a paradise for budget travellers. It is one of the most affordable regions to plan a tour.

If you have been dreaming of planning an international trip but did not execute just because of the budget, I am sure this article would have delighted and encouraged you to plan for a holiday. From islands and beaches to mountains and valleys you can fly away for an enormous amount of fun and entertainment to these places without making your wallet fall off a cliff.

So, do not waste more time and start planning soon!

If you have more budget-friendly destinations in your list, please let us know. We would be happy to add it to our list.

Also Read : You should know this if travelling first time

The post Budget Friendly Destinations in Asia appeared first on Amazing Things.

I understand and it happens with most of the first travellers. It’s inevitable that you might make mistakes as you would have in any other facet of life. So, you don’t have to panic at all. We have a list of travel tips and guide so that you get ready and perfect for your first overseas trip.

1. Make sure you have all the information

I know it’s fun to be spontaneous but making arrangements before-hand is a plus for any travel. You should know how things are going to pan out when you land. Make sure you have all the details, emergency contacts, and names handy. Specially when you are travelling first time.

2. Carry a pocket map

A pocket map will show you the major attractions and how to reach them by any transportation. When I was traveling to Vietnam, I made sure to carry a pocket map with me every time I went out to explore and it helped me a lot and exploring the city was super easy. You can trust on Google Maps but before that you need to trust on your smartphone battery. One more thing, GPS and smartphone network doesn’t work everywhere.

3. Travel Light

Always travel light! Do carry all the essentials but leave space for knickknacks you pick up. And do not carry too many snacks, enjoy the local cuisine instead!

4. Don’t be scared of talking to strangers

If you are traveling solo, mingle with other tourists as well. There will be so much to learn from their perspectives and experiences. You will tend to meet people from different countries and cultures.

5. Carry your passport always with you and do not keep all your cash at one place

Keep your passport in a safe place, ideally in a pouch in a secure bag and while you go outside of the hotel, do leave some cash in your suitcase safely so that in case or in worse situation you will have some cash left with you.

6. Travelling first time ? Carry enough foreign exchange

Cash is the easiest to work with and is easily accepted everywhere. Keep a lot of change, you will need it. And if you want to shop in big stores, keep an international debit card or credit card, totally up to you.

7. Overbooking

With the excitement for the first trip, you might book everything in advance be it hostel, hotel, transfer, breakfast, lunch, dinner. In this way you don’t have to worry much about anything, right? But booking everything will not make your trip flexible. You should leave some space in your itinerary to change and take opportunities as they present themselves. This way you will be able to explore more and enjoy more otherwise you will have to be fixed with your bookings.

8. Do not plan everything with the travel agent

There are various online sites through which you can plan the trip yourself. However, we still depend on travel agents for the safety purpose and don not take any risk. But that does not mean that you need to book everything with the help of travel agent. Book some part with the travel agent and some by yourself. This will help you in saving!

9. Trying to see everything

You would want to see each and everything, you might want to tick as many boxes as possible. But that’s a mistake. Trust yourself that you will travel again. Instead of trying to see everything, you will not be able to enjoy one spot, rather relax and enjoy one spot and move onto other. This way you have lots of fun and adventure.

10. Do not forget about Insurance

You will surely need insurance. Even if you are just planning to stay in a resort and relax, you will need one! You never know anything can happen, your bags might go missing, you might get sick or any one of a million other mishaps might occur while you are traveling. So, why take that risk? Trust me, you will be pleased to spend that small amount on your insurance policy.

11. Take Photos and Videos!

Do not forget to take photos and videos for your memories but at the same time do not let your phone or camera get in the way of your experience. Do not use much of your phones while traveling rather enjoy the moment and cherish the new experience. Just take photos to hold onto the memories and if you like writing, you can write about your experience at the end of the day. Photo & videos will remind you glory of travelling first time alone.

So, are you ready to head out on your first international trip? You might be nervous but that’s normal. Take a deep breath, relax, and enjoy!

When you travel to the other side of the world, take time to savour the local cuisine, explore
the hidden gems of the place, relax in ways you might not get to when going back to your daily routine life. This is the whole point of your trip, isn’t it?

I know there is a great thrill in taking the first trip to abroad but make sure you make the most out of it and do not regret about anything after getting back to home.

These were few travel tips that would help you with your first travel. Please keep these things in mind to enjoy your trip to the best. And if you have some more tips, we would be happy to add to our list.

The post You should know this if travelling first time appeared first on Amazing Things.

There are several restaurants in India that have mushroomed up, yet we have listed out few top-most ones where you can treat yourself to a blend of fusion food flavors.

1. Farzi Cafe, Gurgaon/Pune/Delhi

Farzi Cafe is a must visit for foodies, the café is designed in a restro cum bar setting where you can even enjoy a decent cocktail! When it comes to food you will be really amazed to see their perfection right from Mishti Doi Amuse Bouche to melting Candy Floss Paan. These are just amazing! And if you are a non-vegetarian don’t forget to try their special Goat Cheese Stuffed Tangdi Kebab. Farzi Café is a new destination for innovation!

Cost for two: Rs.2000-2500 (approx.)

2. The Bombay Canteen, Mumbai

Bombay Canteen is a place with a very relaxed yet fun vibe. Every item on the menu is a twist with desi classics and the flavors will surely hit the spot. You must try out Pulled Pork Tacos made out of Theplas (can you ever imagine this recipe) and the Gulab Nut dessert which is actually a gulab jamun but in the form of a doughnut. Aren’t you amazed? Tell me if you do not have a foodgasm at this place.

Bombay Canteen uses veggies like turai and ash gourd and takes the recipe to the next level. If you ever visit Mumbai, do try out Bombay Canteen for sure!

Cost for two: Rs.2000-2500 (approx.)

3. Indian Accent, New Delhi

Trust me; feasting at India’s top-notch restaurant will be a life-changing experience for sure! The restaurant is ranked among the top 50 restaurants in the world. The food here is entirely exceptional and innovative. Few of the dishes bring the essence of modern Indian fusion food. You must try Burrata Papdi Chaat, Tandoori Bacon prawns and Besan Ladoo Tart. The food here will leave you mesmerized!

Delhites, you are lucky enough to have Indian Accent in your city where you can try out exotic dishes from all over the world.

Cost for two: Rs.4000 (approx.)

4. Pink Poppadom, Bengaluru

Bored with the same typical Indian cuisine? Pink Poppadom is the place where you should be right now, located at the Hyatt Bangalore and is a must visit. Their menu has some exciting food items like Sigdi Bharwa Aloo, Rasmalai Alaska, Croissant Paratha and other delightful dishes. The restaurant also organizes regional food festivals many times a year and it’s the best time to check out the restaurant.

The restaurant serves you with interesting ingredients and an extensive range of mouthwatering creations! It has fresh modern vibes, emphasized by pink lighting, and a lavish layout and if that’s not enough they even have a captivating bar including a temperature controlled wine cellar. Few recommendations: Blue Cheese Naan (a must try) and Flamed Rasmalai Baked Alaska.

Cost for two: Rs.2000-2500 (approx.)

5. Café Lota, New Delhi

The cuisine in Cafe Lota is primarily South Indian and Bihari with a contemporary twist. The chef’s special dishes are Sabudana Balls and Pineapple Golgappa.

The restaurant keeps finding different ways to prepare the recipes and take a simple ingredient in a different way. It’s a constant challenge to innovate and to keep the culinary experience exciting for the customers. Highly recommended dishes are Creamy Chaas, Konkan Fish Curry, Sabudana Balls and Keema Paratha.

Cost for two: Rs.1200-1500 (approx.)

6. Masala Library, Mumbai

Masala Library is one of the most famous restaurants on the Mumbai food circuit. Masala Library serves you with exploratory cooking styles thus providing the customers with something really unique and exceptional. Every dish that comes out of the kitchen is a treat for all your senses. You can start with a shot of chilled Thandai (made out of milk and Thandai mixture by the chef) and then move to appetizers like Fried Dumpling stuffed with Dal Chawal, yes you read it right, “Dal Chawal Dumplings”? Isn’t this fascinating and tempt you to try just now.

The dessert, Jalebi Caviar will take you to culinary adventure from voracious glorious.

Cost for two: Rs.4500-5000 (approx.)

7. Monkey Bar- Mumbai/Bengaluru/Kolkata/Delhi

A restaurant with many branches all over the country is a must visit if you are a foodie or a party lover. Monkey Bar is not just about the food, you will enjoy the fusion cocktail as well!

The restaurant serves an interesting blend of Goan, North Indian and other regional cuisines. The recipes like Chorizo Pav and cocktails like Copper Monkey and Toast to Calcutta are must try! The food will leave your taste buds with a great flavor! It’s a perfect place to hang out with your friends and also your partner!

Cost for two: Rs.1800 (approx.)

These lip-smacking fusion dishes will surely challenge your food palate and take you to an interesting gastronomic journey.

I am pretty sure now you must be excited to try out something new and we guarantee you the fusion food in all these restaurants is undeniably delicious. So don’t wait, pick up any place and head to a world of culinary delights!

Which one are you trying next ? Comment below and tell us..

Reference : https://www.triphobo.com/blog/best-fusion-restaurants-in-india

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I am sure everyone who works in the kitchen would love to know kitchen hacks. These kitchen hacks are practical and save a lot of time, energy and effort.

Here are few kitchen hacks that would surely help you speed up your cooking process and help to become a star chef!

1. Lemon Therapy

Whenever you cook lady’s finger (Bhindi), you find it sticking together and the same holds true for rice. So, how to ensure that rice and lady’s finger do not stick together? You can just add few drops of lemon juice to avoid the stickiness. And added tip: heat lemon in a microwave of 10-15 seconds to squeeze out all the juice from it.

2. Mayonnaise at Home

If you are running out of mayonnaise at home and do not want to go to the store just to buy mayonnaise, here is how you can make mayo at home. You just need to simply blend 1 egg with 150ml of olive oil and add some milk and cream to the mixture. Tadaa, Mayonnaise is ready!

3. Raw Potato and Milk Therapy

If your dish has become extra salty, fret not! A couple of spoons of milk will surely neutralize the taste or if you fear your dish might become liquid-y, adding a raw potato or small balls of dough will do the trick!

4. Oil Obsession

Craving French Fries, but can’t stop thinking about the gallons of oil you will consume? Do not worry! Just boil the potatoes before frying and add cornflour and mix it well and freeze it for 2-3 hours. The potatoes will cook faster and consume less oil. Try it out and enjoy French fries!

5. Fresh Paneer

To keep paneer fresh for days, place it in a blotting paper before you refrigerate them. Also, instead of frying paneer, boil it keep spongy, soft and fresh.

6. Prevent fungus in Pickles

In order to prevent fungus from accumulating in the Pickle jar, burn or roast  a small amount of hing (Asafoetida) and invert the empty jar on this burnt hing for a while and follow this up by filling up the Pickle.

7. Overripe Tomatoes

If the tomatoes go overripe, just place these in cold water and some salt to it. Leave them overnight and they will become fresh and form the next morning.

8. Save cut fruits from browning

You probably want to cut fruits for afternoon or evening while you are working in the kitchen so as to save time to meet your deadline. But you hate it when the fruits get discoloured. Here is a trick. A mixture of one part of honey to two parts of water works well to avoid discoloration in fruits or you can try pout squeezing lemon juice over the cut fruits and refrigerate it. This would work as well!

9. Don’t let chillies or pepper burn your fingers

To avoid chilli or pepper’s spice remain on your fingers, rub oil onto the fingers tips and then chop.

10. Consistency in Custard

Everyone loves custard that’s consistent, thick and is similar to whipped cream. However, sometimes it might turn out to be thin. Don’t panic! You can just take a tablespoon of flour and mix it in the custard but make sure you mix it well so there are no lumps. If the custard is still too thin you can add more flour to it and cook it for 5-10 minutes more and simply put it in the refrigerator. The custard will thicken!

If you love cooking and spend most of the time in kitchen, you should know all these hacks
that would increase your productivity and effectiveness while working. These simple and innovative smart kitchen hacks will save your time and effort as well. Try these out and share with your family and friends and let us know how it worked out.

I am sure you would have loved these simple hacks and please let us know more kitchen tricks by posting in the comment section below.

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