I’m in Myanmar, dining at the home of a local family, being serenaded with a nostalgic playlist of American pop tunes reminiscent of my favorite childhood radio station. It’s a surreal scene that looks like an outtake from a David Lynch movie. Sometimes truth is stranger than fiction. With one foot inching towards the 21st century, ancient and modern mingle with ease here. After consuming a lovingly prepared feast, my homespun hosts, joined by … [Read more...]
About Allison Tibaldi
Allison Tibaldi is a native New Yorker, who has lived in Rome, Tuscany, Melbourne, Toronto and Los Angeles. She is a senior editor at offMetro.com and a contributor to CNN, HGTV, Travel Channel, Business Insider, USA Today, USA Today 10 Best, Travel Weekly, am New York, Time Out New York, Paste Magazine, Family Traveller and Family Travel Forum. She is fluent in Italian and Spanish and laughably adequate in French. Her background as an Early Childhood Educator gives her an added understanding of what it takes to travel with kids in tow. She never misses a chance to sample local delicacies, as her love for travel goes hand-in-hand with her love for food and wine.
Best Reasons to Visit Losinj, Croatia
Croatia’s picture-perfect island of Losinj sits in the Northern Adriatic Sea, a stone’s throw from Italy. It has been luring visitors since the 19th century, when Austro-Hungarian aristocracy first recognized its regal sheen. The curative effects of a near-perfect climate, crystalline sea and air infused with the scent of hundreds of native plant species made it a top health resort. Tourists have once again taken notice of this salubrious … [Read more...]
A Maine Culinary Windfall Aboard the Windjammer Stephen Taber
I had long dreamed of sailing Maine’s ruggedly beautiful coast on a rustic windjammer. It sounded like the perfect back-to-nature panacea for my urban existence in New York City. This July, I booked a three-day cruise on the schooner Stephen Taber. First launched in 1871, it’s the oldest documented sailing vessel in continuous service in the United States and a tribute to 19th century craftsmanship. I had already spent time in Maine, so I … [Read more...]
My Puerto Vallarta Taco Adventure
Mexico is many things, but it’s the gastronomic riches that keep pulling me back. This is the land of complex mole, slow-roasted cochinita pibil and simmering pozole, to name just a few of the traditional dishes that I dream of. I recently returned to this country to vacation in Puerto Vallarta. It is a classic Pacific coast resort town, but it’s also a thriving, vibrant and muy auténtico city. As tempting as the sun, sand and surf are, get off … [Read more...]
Berlin Food Tour
Berlin is attracting the attention of hungry tourists around the globe. A huge variety of edible delights compete for your appetite in this bustling metropolis. If your time in Berlin will be brief, consider a food tour. Those on a culinary quest reap the benefits of a guide’s insider epicurean tips. Even if you’re not food-centric, you will learn about the culture, history and sights of Berlin as you stroll the city with your guide and nibble … [Read more...]
Bring Your Appetite to Naples, Florida
If you think the Florida restaurant scene is all early bird specials and buffets that cater to the denture set, meet Naples. Not too long ago, menus were dominated by bland dishes that catered to the simple taste buds of Midwestern snowbirds. Middle Americans still flocks to Naples, but their palates have grown more sophisticated. Thankfully, local chefs have exceeded the blossoming epicurean demand and the heavyweight culinary scene is now a … [Read more...]
Eating My Way Through San Juan
When I first started exploring Puerto Rico, I found what I was seeking: Caribbean beaches, stylish hotel rooms by the sea, a capital city with a pulsating beat and genuinely warm locals. What I never expected to find was a mouth-watering culinary scene. Contemporary Cocina Criolla is a fusion that mirrors Puerto Rico’s diversity and is a powerful lens into its history. Its predominate influences are indigenous Taíno blended with an ample measure … [Read more...]
The Flavors of Puebla, Mexico
Tacos and enchiladas are tastes as familiar to Americans as burgers and fries. While I share a hunger for these Anglicized palate-pleasers, nothing beats the authentic cuisine that lies south of the border. When I crave the unadulterated tastes of Mexico, I dream of the flavors that I have savored in Puebla. In a country loaded with gastronomic riches, Puebla is a culinary oasis. What to Eat in Puebla Puebla is a safe and vibrant city … [Read more...]
A St. Augustine Culinary Adventure
With the term “culinary destination” so overused, it’s refreshing to visit a town that is a bona fide foodie hotspot. As America’s oldest city, I was not surprised to discover that St. Augustine is loaded with perfectly preserved forts, historic sites and European flair. St. Augustine is in Florida, so the glorious beaches and pristine waterways that surround the city were appreciated, but expected. What grabbed my attention are the big things … [Read more...]
The Unexpected Charms of Dusseldorf
Dusseldorf was the last stop on my recent trip to Germany. After the non-stop excitement of Berlin and the Grande Dame beauty of Dresden, my expectations were low. Dusseldorf was a city I associated with trade fairs and big business, neither of which hold my interest. Instead, what I got was a city bursting at the seams with a vigorous art scene, robust cultural life and plenty of culinary mojo. It’s a convenient city to visit, thanks to … [Read more...]