Normally I eat out when traveling. But I’m staying with two handsome Italians who happen to be great cooks (Whose happier than me?).

I’m the unofficial food tester for their future restaurant.  A difficult job.

I would be happy to stay and continue testing recipes, but I would need a pair of elastic pants and additional seats on the plane to get back to New York.

Here is what has been on the menu since I arrived – gluten free pancakes with maple syrup, spaghetti alla carbonara, and fresh beef sirloin steaks (purchased that day from Borough Market) with mashed potatoes, sautéed radicchio and onion.

And for dessert a perfect homemade tiramisu.

Thank you boys!  I’ll be back for the restaurant opening.

Baci!!!

Leslie

It is strange to be in a foreign country where the native tongue is (almost) your own.

Street signs and menus are understandable and aside from cars coming at me in the wrong direction, this city is easy to navigate.

As I take in the city and its sites here are a few things that have surprised me…

No dog poop!  I haven’t seen any dogs or dirty sidewalks since I arrived.

Where are the English?  I have met Greeks, Portuguese, Italians and French.  As confirmed by one Italian waiter, there is no problem meeting Italians in London, but practicing English is a challenge.

Visiting London’s historic sites is a clear reminder how rich and powerful this constitutional monarchy once was.

A Unesco World Heritage Site, Britain’s gothic Houses of Parliament (also known as Westminster Palace) is stunning yet intimidating.  Bombed on fourteen separate occasions during World War II and still standing.  This building says “Don’t mess with me, there’s someone ruling over you.”  I think you must have guts to enter a building like this every day.

For a country known for tea, coffee seems to be the drink of choice.  There is a coffee house or chain on nearly every corner – don’t miss Monmouth in Borough Market on your next visit to London.

Enjoy the sites!

Leslie

I’m in a place where French fries are “chips”, cookies are “biscuits” and nearly everyone travels in a “tube”.

They speak English but it sounds like a foreign language. (more…)

Happy Holidays!

Wishes for a wonderful holiday season!

xoxo

Leslie

For most people airport layovers are a drag.  I’m okay with them, I catch up on reading, people watch and occasionally take advantage of a city visit.

Seoul’s Incheon airport, one of the largest airports in the world, is the best airport for a layover.  This modern, well organized airport has a spa, golf course, sleeping rooms, and an interactive cultural center. (more…)