India: Agra Fort - Citadel of the Mughal Empire

On our third day in India, we embarked on a road trip to our third destination; Agra, home of the majestic Taj Mahal. We left Jaipur a few minutes past 7 am and reached the third corner of the Golden Triangle circuit at 12 noon. Agra, a city in Uttar Pradesh, was ruled by Mughal Emperors centuries ago. It became the center of the empire, thus scattered around...

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Dubai Tram: Stations, Attractions and Trip Tips

I am thrilled with Dubai's new public transportation system, The Dubai Tram. I remember getting so giddy when I saw it on trial run for the first time. Although I won't be using it on a daily basis as I live and work far from the tramway, it still spells out comfort and convenience to me. Having the tram simply means no more long walks to my favorite beach and no more expensive...

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India: Jaunts in Jaipur - The Pink City

I longed to visit Jaipur more than I wanted to see the Taj Mahal in Agra. There's something about the old historical town that fascinates me, not just because it is endearingly known as The Pink City. Well, I wouldn't deny that anything in pink could easily captivate my interest, but it is Jaipur's regal splendor that lured me to come. Jaipur is the capital of Rajasthan....

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Zaroob: Funky Levant Street Eatery

The bright neon signs, the strings of light bulbs and the bizarre pushcart have caught my attention several times while I'm in Sheikh Zayed Road. That spot is too quirky and it stood out from everything along the busy highway. It sure is an eye-magnet, but I never felt the need to check what it is. Neon lights are a bit odd for my liking! Early this year, I saw a photo...

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Panda Express: Fast Casual American-Chinese Restaurant

Panda Express, the largest and the leading American-Chinese Food Chain in the US, has arrived in the UAE. That's definitely something to celebrate. In a city with a fast-paced lifestyle and rising commodity prices, we need more casual restaurants that can quickly serve budget-friendly meals without compromising the quality. Panda Express is one!  In the year 1973,...

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India: Realization and Relaxation in Ramada Jaipur

The feeling of relief washed over me as I walked in Ramada Jaipur. Day #1 in India was mentally challenging for me. I was culture shocked in Old Delhi. I arrived in Jaipur extremely tired, although I only sat, slept and listened to India-related conversation for 4-hours in a fast moving vehicle. And on our first hour in Jaipur, in a gems store, I was persuaded...

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My Five Favorite Must-Eats in Bacolod

I come home for three reasons: family, friends and FOOD!  Meet-ups are always fun with good food. And for me, good food is synonymous with Bacolod, my home province's capital. Aside from being known as the City of Smiles where Masskara Festival is held every October, Bacolod is a popular foodie destination in the country.  Every time I come home, I always...

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India: Half a Day in Delhi

"Don't ride the train." That advice from an Indian colleague lingered in my thoughts while I was planning for a short trip to India. With safety as my top priority, I drifted away from what could possibly be craziest train ride I'd ever experience. I made settlements with a travel agency that promised to tour us around India's Golden Triangle on board a private van. Keeping...

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