Stay at the best luxury hotels in Abu Dhabi

As you’d expect from the largest city in the United Arab Emirates, there are many luxury hotels in Abu Dhabi. In fact, on eDreams.co.uk, you can choose between 48 (!) different 5-star hotels. To help you narrow down your search, we’re going to show you a few of these amazing places to stay. These high-class highlights come with a luxury seal of approval that’s sure to make for an unforgettable stay in Abu Dhabi.

Emirates Palace

The famous Emirates Palace is probably the most impressive and luxurious hotel in Abu Dhabi. Even if the category doesn’t officially exist yet, it is considered a 7-star hotel. It’s a place where your most-extravagant dreams can come true. The Emirates Palace has its own beach exclusively for guests, multiple large swimming pools and a fantastic spa, where you can pamper yourself with massages and body treatments. For those seeking some culinary indulgence, there are 8 in-house restaurants to choose from, each run by world-renowned chefs.

Rixos Premium Saadiyat Island

Guests also get plenty of lavishness for their money at the all-inclusive luxury hotel Rixos Premium on Saadiyat Island. The facilities are extremely extensive: spa area, swimming pools, wave pool, fitness centre and (of course) private beach! Choose the accommodation that takes your fancy from the 378 rooms and villas available.

The St. Regis Saadiyat Island Resort

Also on Saadiyat Island is The St. Regis Saadiyat Island Resort. Enjoy the private beach at this 5-star hotel, as well as the spa area where you can give your body a well-deserved treat. The sports enthusiasts will love the 25-metre indoor pool, the tennis court, and the golf course located next to the hotel grounds. Gastronomic delights are provided by the hotel’s six different restaurants.

Zaya Nurai Island Resort

Nurai Island, a small haven just off the mainland in the Arabian Gulf, is also known as the Maldives of Abu Dhabi. It’s only 15 minutes by boat from Saadiyat Island. For an extra-special experience, stay in one of the wonderful 32 villas at the Zaya Nurai Island Resort, each complete with vital air-conditioning. Guests can enjoy their private patios, pools and beaches, before fine dining at one of the 3 restaurants on offer.

Taste delicious food in the best luxury restaurants in Abu Dhabi

Yes, luxury in Abu Dhabi also includes outstanding food! If you’re a bit of a foodie then an exquisite culinary experience in the UAE is an essential part of your holiday. Fear not foodies, Abu Dhabi will satisfy your most extravagant expectations. It’s very difficult to make a shortlist, but we’ve managed to compile our picks of the top restaurants in Abu Dhabi. Just remember to book well in advance! 

The Galleria Al Maryah Island is an impressive shopping complex where you’ll find the Japanese Zuma Restaurant, the perfect place to enjoy a twist on traditional Japanese dining.  The menu showcases a variety of dishes from its three separate kitchens: the main kitchen, the sushi counter and the robata grill.

Also, in The Galleria, you can find Le Petit Maison. Situated directly on the promenade, you’ll enjoy stunning views across the water while you dine. We highly recommend the Chef’s Table Menu so you can enjoy the variety of dishes the kitchen has to offer.

Another truly world-class restaurant not to be missed is the Hakkasan at the Emirates Palace. It’s one of the most popular restaurants in Abu Dhabi. It was co-founded by Chef Alan Yau, a renowned Michelin star chef who has launched a number of leading culinary brands. You won’t be disappointed by his food creations!

On the 74th floor of the Conrad Abu Dhabi Etihad Towers, you’ll find the Observation Deck at 300. It boasts an impressive 360° view of Abu Dhabi’s striking skyline. Stop by for afternoon tea or mocktails, accompanied by light bites. 

The Buddha Beach Bar at The St. Regis Saadiyat Island Resort offers the perfect combination of delicious high-class food served in the relaxed atmosphere of a beach bar.  Check out their specials, such as Nikkei Brunch or ‘‘Yuuhi’ Sundowner, to take the luxury in Abu Dhabi to another level. 

Experience exclusive activities

If you’re looking to combine the sun, sand and luxury of a private beach, with some unique cultural activities that you can’t experience anywhere else, Abu Dhabi is definitely the place for you.

Beach activities

There are many luxurious beach clubs on Abu Dhabi’s coastline. You can choose from a great variety of water and beach activities, like yoga lessons, snorkelling, kayaking, and even a round golf with a sea view at the Saadiyat Beach Golf Club. 

Ride the world’s fastest rollercoaster

Abu Dhabi’s luxury is not reserved for just its beaches and restaurants. There’s plenty of unique and exclusive adventures to enjoy, such as Ferrari World, where you’ll be able to have not one, but two breaking record experiences. First, at Formula Rossa, you can take the fastest ride of your life, going from 0 to 240 km/h in just 4.9 seconds. Next, if you’re looking to turn your world upside down, you can go to Flying Aces, where you’ll find the highest inverted ‘loop the loop’, with speed up to 120km/h. 

Visit the only other Louvre in the world

You’ve probably heard about Paris’ Louvre, but you might be surprised to hear that the only other Louvre in the world is located in Abu Dhabi. This piece of architectonic art covers approximately 24,000 square metres, making it the largest museum in the Arabian Peninsula! You’ll find works from well-known artists such as Leonardo Da Vinci, Pablo Picasso, Gilbert Stuart and Edouard Manet. 

The museum also boasts a French brasserie located on the rooftop, where you can sit back and relax with a bite to eat after your visit. 

Important and useful information for your Abu Dhabi holiday

In terms of COVID-19 safety measures, as of 26 February 2022, you no longer need a test before you fly to Abu Dhabi if you’re fully vaccinated. 

If you’re not fully vaccinated, you must present a PCR test taken within 48 hours before your trip, or provide a COVID-19 recovery certificate dated no more than 30 days before your departure. You can find more information on COVID-19 measures in Abu Dhabi here. 

There you have it! You now have a list of options to consider for your next luxury-filled holiday in Abu Dhabi! We’ve given you an overview of some of the most popular activities, but if you’re craving more, we recommend that you check these 7 things you must do in Abu Dhabi. The luxury possibilities are endless!

The post Holidays filled with luxury in Abu Dhabi appeared first on eDreams Travel Blog.

From the Americas to Europe, Asia and all over, the Easter culinary delights astound. From the savoury roast lamb eaten in parts of Europe and America to the sweet sensation that is the sweet Rosca, enjoyed in Argentina and Spain, the dishes all commemorate the end of the Lenten season and symbolize the rebirth of spring. Check out eDreams Easter culinary route around Europe and read below to catch a glimpse of some of our favourite dishes.

Chervil Soup

In Germany, Maundy Thursday, which is also known as Gründonnerstag or Green Thursday, is celebrated by eating something green. The variations are many- from eggs in green sauce for brunch, to the popular choice, Chervil soup. The herb, Chervil, is what lends the delightful green colour, commemorating the occasion.

Kulich Easter Cake

Easter breads are a delicacy and the Kulich is no exception. Traditionally eaten in countries like Russia, Georgia and Ukraine, this Easter cake is made like a brioche, with eggs, butter, dried fruit, rum and spices like cardamom, vanilla, saffron and nutmeg. It is usually prepared several days in advance, as it is often taken to the Easter Mass to be blessed. The cakes are baked in tall tins, and decorated.

Italian Easter Knot Cookies

Perfect little confections of vanilla, anise or almond flavours, bound in a perfect knot. These traditional Italian cookies may seem simple, but they are packed with flavour and delightfully attractive, as they are often frosted.

Argentine Easter “Rosca”

The “Rosca de Pascua” is another type of bread served during this season. Served in Spain and Argentina, this fragrant custard brioche with cream, lemon and orange is the sweetest seduction. Traditionally, it was served with hard boiled eggs to symbolize the end of Lent. Today, it is decorated with candied fruit or chocolate eggs.

The Dutch Advocaat

The advocaat is similar to the Christmas style egg nog. It is a delicious blend of brandy liqueur, eggs, sugar and condensed milk and is so rich; it is often eaten with a spoon. Did we mention how delicious this is?

Is anyone else craving one of these delicious dishes? We hope our culinary guide has inspired you to take flight on an amazing culinary journey this season. Don’t forget, Easter falls on Sunday, April 5th. Enjoy it and from all of us, Happy Easter!

The post A Culinary Guide to Easter appeared first on eDreams Travel Blog.

Beignets

Where to find the original version: France

You need:

• ½ c butter
• 1 c water
• ¼ tsp salt
• 1 c flour
• 4 eggs
• Oil for deep frying
• 3 Tbs powdered sugar

1. Melt the butter in the water in a saucepan. Add salt and flour and stir. Finally add the eggs until you have a consistent and smooth batter.

2. Heat the oil to 375°F. Fry spoonfuls of dough (about 6 minutes each). When they turn golden brown they are ready. Sprinkle powdered sugar over each beignet and enjoy!

Complete recipe here.

Pączki

Where to find the original version: Poland

You need:

• 1 ½ c warm milk
• 2 packages active dry yeast
• ½ c sugar
• 4 oz butter
• 1 large egg
• 3 large egg yolks
• 1 Tbs brandy or rum
• 1 tsp salt
• 4 ½ cups flour
• 1 gallon oil for deep frying
• Fruit paste for filling

1. Dissolve the yeast in the warm milk. In a separate mixing bowl, stir together the sugar and butter. Mix in the eggs, brandy or rum, and salt.

2. Add flour and the milk-yeast mixture alternatively until the mixture is smooth. If the dough is too sticky add extra flour.

3. Place dough in a greased bowl. Cover the bowl with transparent film and let rise 1 – 2 hours until doubled in size.

4. Place dough onto a floured surface and roll into a ½ inch thick mass. Cut 3 inch circles out. Re-roll and re-cut until all dough has been used. Cover again and let the circular cut-outs rise about 30 more minutes until doubled in size.

5. Heat the gallon of oil to 350°F in a large frying pan. Place the dough rounds in the oil for 2 – 3 minutes until golden brown, flip over and fry for 1 – 2 more minutes.

6. When the pączki have cooled, poke a hole in the side of each with a pastry bag and fill them with fruit paste. Recommended fillings: prune, apricot, strawberry, rosehip, raspberry or sweet cheese.

Complete recipe here.

Keep reading for 2 more sweet recipes!

King Cake

Where to find the original version: New Orleans, Lousiana, USA

You need:
Cake ingredients:

• 1/3 c milk
• 1 package active dry yeast
• 2 ½ c bread flour
• 2 large egg yolks
• 2 large eggs
• 3 Tbs granulated sugar
• Zest of 1 lemon
• 1 tsp salt
• ½ tsp nutmeg
• 1 ½ sticks unsalted butter (melted)

Filling & icing ingredients:

• ½ c raisins
• 1/4 c bourbon
• 3/4 c dark brown sugar
• 2/3 c chopped pecans
• 1 tsp vanilla
• 1 tsp cinnamon
• 2 tsp orange zest
• 1/4 tsp salt
• 1 dry bean or plastic toy baby
• ½ c powdered sugar
• Purple, green and gold decorative sugar

Cake:

1. Scald milk in a saucepan. Add the yeast to the milk and pulse in a food processor. Add only ½ cup of the flour and all egg yolks to food processor and mix. Add the rest of the flour but do not mix. With the lid on, let sit for 1 ½ hours.

2. After the food processor yeast and flour mixture has sat for 1 ½ hours, add 2 whole eggs, sugar, lemon zest, salt and nutmeg to the mix. Process about 1 minute to form a dough. Add the butter little by little with the machine running.

3. Take the processed dough and put it in a lightly greased bowl and cover with transparent film. Store it in a warm place to let rise for about 3 hours.

4. After the dough has risen, knead it into a ball and put in the covered bowl again. Leave it in the refrigerator for at least 8 hours.

Filling:

1. Heat up the bourbon and raisins in a small saucepan over medium heat. Remove and mix in the brown sugar, pecans, vanilla, cinnamon, orange zest, salt. If you want to add the “surprise” add the bean or plastic toy baby as well.

2. Roll the dough into a 20 inch by 7 inch rectangle on a floured surface. Add the filling over the dough and fold the bottom and top edges of the dough over the filling, making a roll. Tuck one end into the other to make a ring. Cover the ring with transparent film and let it rise for 2 hours.

3. When the roll has risen, bake about 40 minutes at 350°F until golden brown. Let cool to add icing.

Icing:

1. Mix 3 tablespoons water with the powdered sugar. Brush glaze over the cake and sprinkle with the colored sugar.

Complete recipe here.

Shrove Tuesday Pancakes

Where to find the original version: the UK and Ireland

You need:

• 4 large eggs
• 1 c whole milk
• 1 Tbs butter
• 1 Tbs sugar
• 1 tsp vanilla
• ½ tsp salt
• 1 c white flour
• Powdered sugar
• Fresh lemon juice

1. Mix together eggs, milk, butter, sugar, vanilla, salt. Gradually mix in flour. Let stand 15 minutes.

2. Brush a skillet with butter over medium-high heat. Add 2 large spoons of the batter to the skillet. Cook pancake batter about 45 seconds until golden on bottom, then flip over. Cook another 30 seconds. Remove and repeat until all batter is used.

3. Place pancakes on an ovenproof pan and sprinkle powdered sugar over each. Then sprinkle each pancake lightly with lemon juice. Bake at 350°F about 10 minutes until warm.

Complete recipe here.

What is your favorite Fat Tuesday dessert?

The post 4 Deliciously Indulgent Recipes to Make on Shrove Tuesday appeared first on eDreams Travel Blog.

This year we want to give you a creative push and show you just what you can do with a bit of paint and some imagination.

Here are some ideas to help you create your own works of art. There´s no reason why your Easter should be ordinary!

Which one is your favourite? Do you have any photos of Easter eggs you´ve decorated? Send us images, comments and suggestions!

The post Creative and Colorful Easter Eggs to Make at Home! appeared first on eDreams Travel Blog.

1) Wassail from the UK

Wassail literally means ‘good health’ in Middle English. In ancient southern England wassail accompanied “wassailing,” a drinking ritual to ensure a good apple harvest the following year. Today, wassail is a perfect excuse for warming up in the chilly Christmas weather.
The traditional recipe includes eggs but we’ve left them out in the following basic wassail recipe.

Simple Wassail recipe: 

• 1 gallon apple cider
• 2 cups cranberry juice
• 1/2 cup honey
• 1/2 cup sugar
• 2 oranges
• 10 whole cloves
• 1 apple, peeled and diced
• Allspice
• Ginger
• Nutmeg
• 3 cinnamon sticks
• 1/2 C – 1 C brandy (optional)

If you would like to sip on some Wassail in the UK, check out flights to the United Kingdom

2) Glühwein from Germany

Glühwein translates to “glow-wine”, which refers to the hot irons used to mull the wine. This German mulled wine is very popular during Christmas and is a perfect companion for a stroll through the many Christmas markets across the country.

Simple Glühwein recipe:

• 3/4 cup water
• 3/4 cup white sugar
• 1 cinnamon stick
• 1 orange
• 10 whole cloves
• 1 (750 ml) bottle red wine

Experience German Christmas markets with a hot, piping glühwein in hand. Find flights to Germany

3) Poppy Seed Milk from Lithuania

This is a drink that is popular in Lithuania all through winter. And since you don’t need lactose to prepare it, the Poppy Seed Milk smoothie makes a great substitute for the traditional American eggnog.

Simple Poppy Seed Milk recipe:

• 2 cups poppy seeds
• 2 tablespoons sugar
• 3 cups hot/boiling water
• 1 teaspoon almond extract

If you wish to try the real deal in Lithuania, check out flights to Vilnius.

4) Eggnog from USA

Who would think that mixing eggs and milk with a dash of cinnamon or nutmeg would be a popular drink? Across the United States and some parts of Canada, a good holiday party isn’t complete without a frothy glass of eggnog.

Simple Eggnogg recipe:

• 4 egg yolks
• 1/3 cup sugar
• 1 pint whole milk
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 3 ounces bourbon
• 1 teaspoon freshly grated nutmeg
• 4 egg whites

Not too sure about this eggy concoction? Skip making your own and buy a carton or two in the US. Get your flight to the United States

5) Gløgg from Norway

Gløgg, or hot spiced wine, is a popular tradition not only in Norway, but across Scandinavia. With temperatures below freezing there’s no wonder this warm drink is a must when it comes to the holidays.

Simple Gløgg recipe: 

• 1 (750 ml) bottle red wine
• 1 ounces dried orange zest
• 1 ounces cinnamon sticks
• 10 whole cardamom seeds
• 10 whole cloves

Looking for a white Christmas? Head over to Norway and warm up with the Nordic version of spiced wine. Search for flights to Norway

Does your country have a special festive drink that you’d like to share with us?

The post 5 Christmas Drink Recipes to get you in the Festive Spirit appeared first on eDreams Travel Blog.

Here are 5 deliciously indulgant hot chocolate recipes for you to try!

Candy Cane Hot Chocolate Recipe

A hot chocolate to make Santa proud. To make this candy cane hot chocolate, coarsly chop some semi-sweet chocolate of your choosing. Mix the chocolate into a mug of warm milk, adding pieces of crushed candy cane and a few frops of peppermint extract.

Recipe by Kristen from Pastry Affair

Hot White Chocolate With Marshmallows

For lovers of white chocolate! Coarsly chop your favourite white chocolate bar and mix into a warm mug of milk. Add a few drops of peppermint extract for that added Christmassy taste. Garnish with mini marshmallows and shavings of chocolate. Recipe and more hot chocolate recipes on Averie Cooks.

Salted Caramel Hot Chocolate Recipe

The ultimate Christmas hot chocolate, created by Elsie and Emma from A Beautiful Mess. To make, just chop up some dark chocolate and a chocolate caramel bar of your choice. Mix into a glass of warm milk, add a pinch of salt and enjoy!

Cayenne Pepper Hot Chocolate Recipe

Another festive hot chocolate recipe from Elsie and Emma is the Aztec Hot Chocolate. You can make the hot chocolate base from scratch, or just use your usual hot chocolate mixture. Add cinnamon and a pinch of cayenne pepper and stir. Top off with some fluffy marshmallows and a cinnamon stick.

Lavender Hot Chocolate Recipe

For this recipe you will need milk, dark and milk chocolate and a few lavender buds. Stir the ingredients together and top with a generous whirl of whipped cream. Rick from A la Mode recommends using just a couple of lavendar buds in your hot chocolate to keep it from tasting soapy.

What about you? What’s your favourite hot chocolate recipe? Do share

The post 5 Festive Hot Chocolate Recipes to Make at Home appeared first on eDreams Travel Blog.

In just about every country around the world, the Christmas season is a special time that inspires festive culinary delights not frequented year-round. For example, in Great Britain, the Christmas Pudding is highly anticipated, in the US the sweet smell of roasted ham fills the air in most homes on Christmas Eve, and Spain enjoy a Turron at Christmas time.

Since Christmas season is well under way and this particular holiday brings about such tasty dishes, we’re taking you on a quick tour around the world through one of our favorite vices: Food.

Roasted Lamb

Spain

They say that lamb is at its perfection when it melts in your mouth. Likewise, the key to a delicious and tender roast lamb is ensuring the meat is fresh, and seasoned well. The longer it is marinated, the better. In Spain, the classic Christmas recipe is roast lamb prepared with wine, water, bay leaf, lemon, oil and garlic. Consequently, the aroma that fills the house while the roast cooks is common among Spanish households and is also a nostalgic reminder of the Christmas season .

Bûche de Noël

France

The famous Bûche de Noël or Yuletide Log, is the main star on the Christmas dining table in France. Though there are many varying recipes, the most traditional and popular log is the one that is made with sponge cake and chocolate icing. Above all, it is the decoration of this delicacy which is the most important aspect. In other words, the more real the log appears the better!

Roasted Sweet Ham with Pineapple

United States

In United States, the dish that evokes smiles and brings merriment on Christmas Eve is the roast ham with pineapple In a country where barbecues reigns supreme and bacon is king, there is nothing sweeter or more anticipated than the Christmas ham, which is roasted for hours and adorned with slices of pineapple and cherries. Other holiday staples are also the Gingerbread cookies and turkey.

Christmas Pudding

United Kingdom

Cinnamon, dates, ginger and nuts: Is there ever a wonder why Christmas Pudding is the perfect Christmas dessert after a satisfying Christmas Eve dinner? The magic definitely happens when the Christmas pudding is flambéed with Brandy; delicious!

Farofa with Bacon

Brazil

Brazil’s warmer climate make it easy for them to forget the soup during Christmas. Here, the influence and taste profile is Portugese and while bacalao is very popular, there are other delicacies like the farofa, made with toasted manioc flour.

Lechon Kawali

Philippines

The Philippines are one of the few Asian countries where Christmas is celebrated. Especially within their houses, which they start decorating full of colours and Christmas spirit from mid-October. One of the main Christmas recipes is Kawali: Tender and crispy pork, garnished with rice and oyster sauce.

Lebkuchen

Germany

Lebkuchen or “ginger bread” is a very typical Christmas dessert in Germany, and one that is delicious! This cake-like cookie is one that can be found in various locations, especially in the Christmas markets.

Cappelletti in brodo

Italy

In the chilly December month, soup is a staple. Many Christmas recipes in Italy do not carry meat, due to the religious traditions in the country. Cappelletti (or tortellini), is the exception. Often eaten on Christmas eve, despite it being filled with chicken and ricotta and cooked in capon broth .

Melomakaroma

Greece

Sweet and delicate, these Christmas treats are made with flour, olive oil, and honey. They are guaranteed to be found in most Greek homes during Christmas.

Bacalhau

Portugal

It could not be any other way: In Portugal, the main dish is delicious cod, or bacalhau. The traditional way to prepare this for Christmas is boiled with potatoes and vegetables.

Barszcz con pierogi

Poland

Poland is filled with Christmas traditions and a few superstitions. One of the superstitions is that for Christmas Eve, the table must be set with 12 plates (in honor of the 12 Apostles), and served, is the red soup or barszcz, made with beets and often accompanied by pierogi.

Halászlé

Hungary

A traditional Christmas Eve dish in this country is fish soup or halászlé, although the dinner table is also adorned with other lovely meat dishes and sweets, of which a favourite is a cake with honey and nuts.

What’s your favourite food to eat at Christmas time? 

The post Delicious Christmas Foods from Around The World appeared first on eDreams Travel Blog.

With great local innovation, the arrival of immigrant groups from around the globe, the popularity of street food and some updating of classic German dishes you’ll be spoilt for choice.

Here are 13 German dishes and drinks you must try in Berlin!

PS – Get your belly stuffed and use the energy to check out our list of 30 things to do in Berlin.

Apfelstrudel

This immensely popular dessert originated in nearby Austria. Actually, it means ‘apple whirlpool’ in Middle High German.

A thin pastry jacket is stuffed with tart cooking apples, cinnamon, sugar, raisins, and bread crumbs. It only really comes together, though with a dollop of vanilla ice cream. Yum!

Currywurst

Invented in 1949 by food-kiosk owner Herta Heuwer who created a sauce using traditional ketchup and curry powder given to her by British Soldiers.

This boiled then fried sausage dish was a hit with construction workers rebuilding the city after the war and is still one of Berlin’s most popular meals today.

Eisbein

Pickled ham hock (pork knuckles) is boiled or grilled and served with boiled potatoes, sauerkraut, and mustard. Now we’re getting German!

+ ? Search for Flight + Hotel in Berlin!

Bretzels

Legend has it that pretzels were invented by a monk in Italy who folded dough into the shape of a child crossing its arms in prayer. Whatever the history, this savory bread snack is a favorite accompaniment to any German Pilsner.

Berliner Doughnuts

OK, so Berliners actually call these holeless, marmalade-filled doughnuts ‘pfannkuchen’ (which means ‘pancake’ everywhere else in the country), but today the options are virtually limitless.

Soft, ooey-gooey modern vegan versions of this classic can be found in Brammibal’s Donuts. Homer Simpson’s dream!

Wiener Schnitzel

Talking about German dishes… Pound out a good cut of veal really thin, coat with flour, dip in egg wash, roll in bread crumbs and fry. Serve with a slice of lemon and potatoes, accept no substitutes.

Grab some at the Ampelmann Restaurant for an amazing outdoor seating area with, tough to beat city and river views.

Kartoffelpuffer

These shallow-fried potato pancakes are great to snack on walking around any of Berlin’s outdoor markets. Sweet ones are served with apple sauce or plum compote. On the other hand, savory options include liverwurst or smoked salmon and sour cream.

Fly me to Berlin!

Berliner Weiße mit Schuss

This very traditional drink made with a sour, cloudy wheat beer and a schuss (shot) of red raspberry or green waldmeister syrup is the ideal Berlin summer drink. If the weather permits, grab one and sit in a longer at Strandbar Mitte, Berlin’s first ‘beach bar’ 

Senfeier

There’s really no good way to translate this one… German mustard eggs?  Eggs in mustard sauce? This traditional German side is usually enjoyed around Easter time and uses hard boiled eggs in a type of mustard hollandaise sauce served with potatoes.

Doner Kebab

With an estimated 200,000 Turks in Berlin it’s no wonder you can get some of the best doner kebab known to man. No matter if you want chicken, lamb, or even a vegetarian version the full-flavored, well-value option is to head to Mustafa’s Gemeuse Kebab.

Pfannkuchen

A much thinner, almost crepe-like version of American pancakes is another treat that can go either savory or sweet. It’s more commonly eaten as a dessert, light meal, or snack.

Königsberger Klopse

This is a Prussian specialty made with ground veal, beef, or pork meatballs, a touch of anchovy, and a creamy white wine and lemon gravy. Königsberger Klopse is a hearty winter dish that’ll fill you up fast.

Any Beer in a Biergarten

Most people have their own idea of what they want in a beer so there’s no point getting into the ton of options you’ll have in Berlin. Tell the barman what you like and let him pour you a dream!

Just make sure if the weather is cooperating to go to a beer garden. The immensely popular 600-seat Prater Garten, the city’s oldest and most beautiful, is a great idea.

+ ? Search for Flight + Hotel in Berlin!

The post 13 German Dishes and Drinks You Must Try in Berlin appeared first on eDreams Travel Blog.

Catalan cuisine is as influenced by France as anything in the Iberian Peninsula.

And you need to try it – preferably washed down with some local libations.

Here are 12 dishes and drinks you must try in Barcelona.

If you’re new to the game don’t forget to check out our list of 20 ideas for Barcelona beginners.

Pan amb tomàquet

We’ll start off with the backbone of any self-respecting Catalan meal – toasted pa de pagès (a type of country bread) is sprinkled with salt, rubbed with ripe tomato, and drizzled in quality olive oil.

Calçots

Do massive barbecued spring onions sound like a horrible idea? OK, but add a dollop of tangy romesco sauce and tap a few kegs and all of a sudden you’re wiping charcoal off your hands at a massive outdoor party – Calçotada festivals run from February to May.

Crema Catalana

Locals claim this is the precursor to the French crème brûlée but who’s keeping score? This egg custard dessert with crunchy toffee crust and velvet creamy interior is a textural assault on the senses no matter where you are.

Vermut

A favourite afternoon tipple for locals, this spiced wine drink is cheap and delicious and is the perfect accompaniment to pretty much every tapa known to man.

Fuet

This thin dry-cured sausage flavoured with pepper and garlic may be Barcelona’s most eaten local cold-cut.

Fideua

While paella has conquered most regions in Spain the fideua (‘large amount of noodles’ in Catalan) remains unique to Barcelona and Valencia and their surroundings – for those who love paella but want a smoother texture dig in! Just make sure to eat it with allioli (a creamy garlic sauce).

Botifarra i mongetes

The Botifarra sausage is made from a fairly standard blend of raw pork meat and spices that dates back to Roman times though occasionally you’ll find them made with truffles. Pair it with some brilliantly cooked fava beans and you’ve got more classic Catalan chow.

Escalivada

This vegetable dish was traditionally cooked in the embers of food fires but now the aubergine, bell peppers, and olive oil is cooked just about any way – today it is served as a tapa, on bread, with anchovies in a salad, or even as a relish.

Escudella i carn d’olla

A hearty noodle soup with multiple meats that’s made in massive quantities usually over the Christmas holiday – this is the winter comfort dish in the region because you an eat it as a soup and as a meat course separately.

Coques

This sweet or savory flatbread finds its etymology in the same Dutch word that gave English ‘cake’ – they can be topped with anything from meat to fish to fruit and vegetables and pretty much everything in between.

Panellets

If you’re in the city on or around the period of Halloween be sure to get your hands on a few of these small mainly marzipan cakes – the most popular one is rolled in pine nuts and they’re traditionally washed down with a sweet Catalan wine called moscatell.

Cava

When talking of sparkling white wines it’s known that France has Champagne, Italy has Prosecco, and Spain has Cava. You won’t find a celebration in Barcelona without a bottle of this fruity, refreshing wine with a slightly bitter finish.

Hungry for more? Let us call ahead and get the cava on ice.

Take me to Barcelona!

The post 12 Dishes and Drinks You Must Try in Barcelona appeared first on eDreams Travel Blog.

Some people think that in a city so crowded as New York, there’s no room to find this new hidden spots.

But we know that the “Big Apple” is full of surprises and… hidden bars!

If you promise to keep it a secret, we’ll share with you our favourite 10 secret bars. Deal?

1. Old Rabbit Club

English rock of the 60s and a huge rabbit in the door – welcome to the “Old Rabbit Club”! They have a huge variety of beers so if you’re a fan of this drink, this is the place to go.

Address: 124 MacDougal Street (entre Bleecker Street y West 3rd Street)

2. Please Don’t Tell

In the East Village you’ll find this bar that for many people is considered one of the best and most hidden places of the city. The experience to get inside the Please Don’t Tell is pretty awesome: first you should get inside the Crif Dogs, search for a phone booth, pick up the phone and ring the doorbell. Afterwards you’ll be inside the PDT and there will be some great cocktails waiting for you!

Address: 113 St Marks Pl, New York, NY 10009

3. The Garret

To get to “The Garret” you’ll have to delve into the Five Guys of Green which Village and climb some stairs. Once you reach an open space covered in wood till the skylight, it means you’ve reached your destiny! This is the classic place in which you can take a tea by the morning and start with the cocktails by the afternoon.

Address: 296 Bleckeer St. West Village, New York, NY 10014

4. The Campbell Apartment

Did you know there is a hidden bar inside the Grand Central Terminal? This spot was a private room during the 20’s as you can perfectly imagine by the stained glass windows, high ceilings and the fireplace. But now it’s a place that mixes after work parties and travellers who are just passing through.

Address: 15 Vanderbilt Ave (entre East 42nd St y East 43rd St)

5. La Esquina

Tacos and margaritas with jalapenos are the menu for one night at La Esquina / The Corner. The owners like to keep the mystery behind the bar, but book a dinner reservation and you’ll obviously have access to this spot with low-lights and a romantic feeling.

Address: 114 Kenmare Street (entre Mott Street y Elizabeth Street)

6. Little Branch

Behind the metal door of the Little Branch you’ll find one of those bars where you can simply lean on the counter and just tell the bartender how are you feeling. In a few minutes he’ll return with your favourite cocktail. It will be even more special if you choose a night where there’s a live jazz band playing.

Address: 22 Seventh Avenue S. (con Leroy Street)

7. The Back Room

The entrance is a bit hidden, but when you get inside The Back Room you’ll feel like you’ve been transported to another era. A charming fireplace and cocktails served in teacups preserve the mystery of this bar.

Address: 102 Norfolk Street (entre Rivington Street y Delancey Street)

8. The Raines Law Room

Pure elegance. This would be the perfect way to describe this bar in which the different spaces are separated by curtains, the cocktails are authentic and genuine, and the Chester chairs are arranged in a way so that conversations are made of whispers.

Address: 48 West 17th Street (entre 5th Ave y 6th Ave)

9. Apotheke

Their cocktails are famous throughout the city, and although it’s a bit expensive, it’s definitely worth a visit to this hidden bar if you go to New York. In Apotheke they make their own alcohol and store it in the typical old pharmacy pots – hence its name. The atmosphere is elegant and romantic.

Address: 9 Doyers St #1, New York, NY 10013

10. Angel’s Share

Hidden behind one of the doors of the Japanese restaurant Village Yokocho, Angel’s Share is known to be one of the quietest secret bars in town, that is, if you visit it in one of the days when there aren’t any parties! Whiskey cocktails are their speciality.

Address: 8 Stuyvesant St, New York, NY 10003

Did you like our list? Have you been to any of these bars? Tell us your recommendations in the comments!

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