Ibu Rai

Ibu Rai

Ibu Rai, along one of Ubud’s main streets, is a perfect spot to grab a sundowner and await the towns nightlife.

Having come from among the Kajang rice fields, we’re not overly hungry after a late lunch at Sweet Orange Warung, nor are we quite ready to head back to the hotel.… Read the rest

Kodra Restaurant

Kodra Restaurant

An early morning walk and then a visit, en route, to the delightful Ardenica Monastery, sees us arrive in Gjirokaster for a late lunch at Kodra Restaurant. Perched high on the hill in the old town, it is currently raining and so, a lazy lunch seems the perfect way to await finer weather.… Read the rest

Alpeta Winery

Alpeta Winery

A short drive through the countryside from Berat, after a morning at Berat Castle and the Onunfri Museum, and we come to the tiny village of Roshnik where the Alpeta Winery makes a big impression.

Arriving at Alpeta’s restaurant and cellar door

Wine Tasting

We’re here for wine tasting, a tour of the Vineyard and a hearty lunch sourced from local produce.… Read the rest

Blue Jade

Blue Jade

The Saigon Social at Blue Jade is a delightful way to celebrate the beginning of the weekend. This Friday night brunch at Dubai’s Ritz Carlton, JBR is picture perfect from arrival to the last sip.

The Ritz Carlton at JBR

I am swept away before we even get to Blue Jade.… Read the rest

Beautiful People, Reunited

Beautiful People, Reunited

It has been a rough few years. COVID, jobs lost, friends leaving and lives changing without really moving forwards. Such is the nature of an expat life at the best of times. Yet despite all of it, there is still life and friendship to celebrate.… Read the rest

Mimi Kakushi

Mimi Kakushi

Lunch at Mimi Kakushi’s is the best I have ever had.

Some meals are memorable for different reasons. It might be the atmosphere, the service, view, a particular ingredient or indeed an entire dish that stands out. Mimi Kakushi brings all of these elements together to provide a very, very memorable meal for all the right reasons.… Read the rest

Shaw Vineyard Estate

Shaw Vineyard Estate

Tucked in behind the little town of Murrumbateman is Shaw Vineyard, an award winning vineyard where you can ”expect the unexpected”.

The Vineyard

This is a family owned, cool climate vineyard producing Riesling, Semillon, Merlot, Malbec, Shiraz and Cabernet Sauvignon with around 70 acres of vines.… Read the rest

Four Winds Vineyard

Four Winds Vineyard

The Four Winds Vineyard is an easy drive from Canberra and yet a world away. We are in the area for a mid-week getaway, however, the proximity to the capital makes this a great day trip destination for a weekend family lunch or date with a difference.… Read the rest