Thursday, October 30, 2014

CNNGo.com

CNNGo.com


5 amazing places in Iran you've never heard of

Posted: 30 Oct 2014 07:00 AM PDT

It might not be on everyone's travel radar, but Iran has a wealth of lesser-known destinations that rival their more famous counterparts in beauty and historical significance
5 amazing places in Iran you've never heard of

Five continents, five years ... and thousands of sketches

Posted: 29 Oct 2014 08:45 PM PDT

Luis Simoes has visited 29 countries in the past two years and plans to sketch his way around the world
Five continents, five years... and thousands of sketches

Following Anthony Bourdain around the world

Posted: 29 Oct 2014 03:00 PM PDT

Instagram users and CNN iReporters share their favorite travel photos of the places Bourdain has visited in "Part Unknown"
Following Anthony Bourdain around the world

The essential Dallas guide for executive travelers

Posted: 29 Oct 2014 12:00 AM PDT

Top places in the Big D to dine with clients, sleep comfortably and buy gifts that clearly didn't come from the airport
Diving into the heart of Dallas: Essential guide for executive travelers

Australia bans travel from Ebola-stricken West Africa

Posted: 28 Oct 2014 07:17 PM PDT

PM Abbott defends decision, saying the country has been active in fight against deadly disease
Australia travel ban Ebola from West Africa

Europe's forgotten treasure chest: Inside Germany's Green Vault

Posted: 28 Oct 2014 06:36 PM PDT

Housing one of Europe's largest treasure collections, Dresden Castle's spectacular baroque chambers are filled with jewels and objets d'art

World's most dangerous transit systems for women?

Posted: 28 Oct 2014 06:08 AM PDT

A Thomson Reuters Foundation survey finds transport in Latin American cities to be the most dangerous, while a U.S. city ranks as the safest

Could your next burger be camel meat?

Posted: 27 Oct 2014 08:20 PM PDT

Upscale department stores already stock camel milk chocolate. It might not be long before camel burgers and hot dogs follow suit
Could your next burger be camel meat?

LAX flight delayed over Wi-Fi hot spot name

Posted: 27 Oct 2014 08:06 PM PDT

An American Airlines flight was delayed Sunday after a passenger noticed a portable Wi-Fi connection named "Al-Quida Free Terror Nettwork"
Alarming name of a Wi-Fi hot spot delays LAX flight

'Avant gardens': When art, design and a whole load of plants collide

Posted: 27 Oct 2014 07:56 PM PDT

Traditional ideas about gardens are being replaced by a more sculpture-like approach -- and with fantastic results
'Avant gardens': When art, design and a whole load of plants collide

Harry Potter hotel site crashed by avid muggle fans

Posted: 27 Oct 2014 06:26 PM PDT

Harry Potter fans are clamoring to book a limited number of rooms at a central London hotel that were decorated based on the popular J.K. Rowling books
Harry Potter hotel

This company turns your movie fantasies into vacations

Posted: 27 Oct 2014 10:34 AM PDT

Luxury Action will turn your travel scripts into reality and film them. As long as you're willing to travel to this country ...
luxury action

Feeling alive on Dia de Los Muertos

Posted: 26 Oct 2014 08:00 PM PDT

Face painting, live Mexican music and dancing set a lively and happy mood at a California cemetery on the Day of the Dead
Dia de Los Muertos

San Francisco tour guide's bitter Chinatown rant goes viral

Posted: 24 Oct 2014 01:57 PM PDT

An expletive-laced screed about Chinatown from a tour guide has shocked the city and others around the world
San Francisco Chinatown

Paris gets a new landmark: Introducing Fondation Louis Vuitton

Posted: 24 Oct 2014 01:25 PM PDT

Starchitect Frank Gehry designed the $130 million building that will be home for the company's public and private art collections
Fondation Louis Vuitton

Where to find the funniest jokes in America

Posted: 24 Oct 2014 11:37 AM PDT

As entertainment capital of the world, Los Angeles draws some of the best comic talent on the planet. Here's where to see it live
Bill Burr

5 can't-miss Tanzania experiences

Posted: 24 Oct 2014 05:00 AM PDT

Sparsely populated (by humans at least), this East Africa country offers so much more than just Mt. Kilimanjaro
5 can't-miss Tanzania experiences

Diwali celebrations light up India

Posted: 24 Oct 2014 01:24 AM PDT

Around the world, Indians are celebrating the festival of lights with fireworks and candles. Here's a look at some of this week's India festivities
Diwali celebrations light up India

Wednesday, October 15, 2014

CNNGo.com

CNNGo.com


CNNGo in Japan: Wagyu, ramen, sake

Posted: 07 Oct 2014 02:23 AM PDT

From exquisite tempura to perfect noodles, this culinary journey hits the hot spots in a land bursting with flavor

Warning: This episode of CNNGo may cause intense hunger pangs followed by a sudden urge to book a flight to Japan.

We've been to Japan before, but with our latest episode, CNNGo dishes up the finest food the country has to offer. 

Starting in the whimsical Tokyo kitchen of Michelin-starred chef Yoshihiro Narisawa, we then travel south to a Wagyu cattle farm that raises the country's famous Kobe cows.

But Kobe isn't famous just for its beef. 

The area around the city is one of the world's major sake-producing regions.

How could we not take an inside look at how the popular beverage is made?

Finally, we head to Kyushu's capital of Fukuoka -- aka ramen heaven -- where we meet the founder of legendary noodle chain, Ichiran. 

Narisawa

cnngo taste of japan narisawaYoshihiro Narisawa: Part chef, all artist.In Yoshihiro Narisawa's Tokyo kitchen, we get to see exactly how the famed chef puts together his art-like creations. 

Selected no.14 in the World's 50 Best Restaurants list, Narisawa's mission is to transport customers to the forests of Japan through a variety of dishes.

Signature creations include Soil Soup (boiled dirt) and Inori, a buttery crab dish that resembles a candle wrapped in Japanese paper. 

One of the most amazing dishes is served on a piece of tree bark that streams sounds from different forests in Japan.

Narisawa, Minami Ayoyma 2-6-15, Minato-ku, Tokyo; +81 3 5785 0799

MORE: Secrets from Japanese master: How to make sushi

Kobe Shu-Shin-Kan

cnngo taste of japan sakeKobe isn't famous for only beef -- its sake is highly regarded, as well.The area around Kobe is one of the largest sake-producing regions in Japan.

With ample supplies of sake's two primary ingredients -- locally grown rice and freshwater from nearby mountains -- it also produces some of the best sake in the world. 

Established more than 250 years ago, Kobe Shu-Shin-Kan is a family operation offering English tours of its property. 

Visitors can see the step-by-step sake brewing process, from the washing of the rice to the fermenting to the taste testing.

Kobe Shu-Shin-Kan, 1-8-17 Mikagetsuka, Higashinada, Kobe, Hyogo, Japan; +81 78 841 1121


Zen-Noh Hyogo Kobe Farm

cnngo taste of japan Kobe beefSorry, Kobe cows don't actually drink beer to help them marble.

According to urban legend, Kobe cows lead a life of beer-drinking and massages.

Sadly, it's not true. 

As a visit to Zen-Noh Hyogo Kobe Farm reveals, nurturing Kobe cows involves restricting their exercise and giving them the right type of feed. 

Kobe beef breeding is a strictly managed enterprise in Hyogo Prefecture. At any given time only 12 bulls are used to reproduce this top quality beef.

MORE: Ultimate Japan Wagyu beef guide


Ichiran's Mori

cnngo taste of japan ichiranIchiran, the legendary ramen from Fukuoka.It's almost impossible to find an unsatisfying bowl of ramen in Fukuoka, also known as Japan's ramen capital.

Famed ramen maker Ichiran makes its noodles in its main factory located in nearby Itoshima.

To ensure that the secret of the perfect noodles and broth won't be leaked, only about 5% of the ramen-making process can be viewed by visitors.

But the factory tour is interesting -- on-site there's a museum where visitors can eat Ichiran ramen in cubicles called "concentration booths."

Ichiran's Mori, 256-10 Matsuguma Itoshima-shi, Fukuoka-ken, Japan; +81 92 332 8902


Yatai stalls in Reisen–koen

cnngo taste of japan yataiRamen tastes more authentic in a yatai.Eating at yatai (street-food stalls) is a Japanese tradition and no city is more associated with yatai than Fukuoka.

Bowls of yatai soup noodles are a staple meal in the city.

Locals love climbing into these small street-side restaurants, where menus also include yakitori and ramen.

Some even function as makeshift gin-and-tonic bars.


MORE: Adventures in ramen: Japan's ever-changing soup scene

Ginza Mitsukoshi

In a city that's been awarded more Michelin stars than any other in the world, it's perhaps not surprising that even the basement department stores in Tokyo are full of culinary treasures. 

From tempura to sushi to some of the country's best desserts, you can get a full meal at many of these subterranean food circuses. 

Insider secret: most department stores have a public rooftop area, always a good spot to enjoy a Tokyo view with a classic bento box.

Ginza Mitsukoshi, 4-6-16 Ginza, Chuo, Tokyo

Guests

Yukari Sakamoto, food writer

Marie Udono, restaurateur

Mako Tanaka, food blogger

Nick Szasz, publisher, Fukuoka Now

Music

Metro Ongen

"Eden"

"Lily"

"Libson"

The Watanabes

"There's Something Wrong"

"28 Years (Instrumental)"

"Make Things Better"

Jimmy Binks and the Snakehorns

"Not Too Late"

Icon Girl Pistols

"Sky Blue Paint"

"An Illegal Ticket"

Quruli

"Loveless"

"There is (always light)"

Mothercoat

"Post"

"Nipple Cider"

"Osero"

Nontroppo

"Yottafuri"

This story, and several others on Japanese food, complement the CNNGo TV series. This month's show features a culinary journey through Japan, including a visit to the home of Kobe beef and a meeting with the founder of famous Ichiran ramen shop. See more of the show here: www.cnn.com/cnngo

Wednesday, September 10, 2014

CNNGo.com

CNNGo.com


CNNGo in Bali: Legends, cocktails and an amazing pig roast

Posted: 04 Sep 2014 12:32 AM PDT

The locals show us there's more to Indonesia's top tourist island than those world-famous beaches
CNNGo in Bali

With its gorgeous beaches and delicious cuisine, beautiful Bali is undeniably Indonesia's travel hotspot. 

But what's happening beyond the tourist grind? This September, CNNGo hits up some of the island's locals to share their favorite Bali hangouts and the stories behind them. 

Legendary Indonesian surfer Rizal Tanjung shows us where he first fell in love with the waves.

Sunglasses designer Suki takes us to the playground of the hip and beautiful, Potato Head Beach Club, as well as a secluded beach away from the crowds. 

In Ubud, we gorge on the famous babi guling -- an amazing yet underrated roast pig -- and check out the latest happenings in the island's art scene with artist Natisa Jones. 

Chef Chris Salans, the man behind the dishes at Ubud's top restaurant, Mozaic, takes us into the rice fields for a taste of his inspiration.

Here's a closer look at some of the places we visit this month and the music featured on the show:  

MORE: 6 best places to escape the crowds in Bali

Top locations

Potato Head Beach Club

Potate Head Beach Club, CNNGo in BaliNow that's an Instagram waiting to happen. For those looking to enjoy ocean views with comfort and a cocktail, there's no better option than Potato Head Beach Club in Seminyak.

Here you can catch a bite at one of its many restaurants, lounge by the pool or have drinks at the pool bar.

A definite must-try is the famous Kookaburra cocktail.

With whipped cream on top, how can it not be delicious?

Potato Head Beach Club, Jalan Petitenget, Seminyak, Bali; +62 361 473 7979


Deus Ex Machina

Deus, CNNGo in BaliDeus: Come for a meal, leave on your newly purchased motorbike. Set in the rice fields of Canggu, Deus is a one-stop shop for art, clothing, custom motorbikes and surfboards. 

It's also a restaurant where "motorcycles and fine dining collide" -- alongside a full bar.

Even better, the place turns into a live music venue on Sunday nights.

Deus Ex Machina, Jalan Batu Mejan No.8, Canggu, Bali


Mozaic

Mozaic, CNNGo in BaliMozaic: Ubud's top restaurant.Bali's gourmet food scene has really taken off in the past decade. 

One of the chefs leading the way is Chris Salans of Ubud's Mozaic restaurant.

The atmosphere is on the romantic side, with candlelit tables under the trees.

In terms of the menu, Salans says he finds inspiration direct from the source of his food as he scours the island for the best ingredients.

Mozaic, Jalan Raya Sanggingan, Ubud, Gianyar, Bali; +62 361 97 5768

 


Tonyraka Art Gallery

Tonyraka Art Gallery, CNNGo in BaliTribal and contemporary, Tonyraka is really two galleries in one.Indonesia's art scene is on full display at Tonyraka, which features a rich mix of both tribal and contemporary art.

Founded in 1968 by a local carver, for the first 30 years it mainly focused on fine woodwork, reflecting the island's unique tribal arts. 

It wasn't until 1997 when the son of the founder took over that the collection was broadened to include contemporary artworks as well.

Tonyraka Art Gallery, Jalan Raya Mas No. 86 Mas, Ubud, Bali; +62 361 781 6785


Padang Padang

Padang Padang Beach, CNNGo in Bali"He's scaring away the fish."There's no shortage of beaches in Bali, but Padang Padang is easily one of the most dramatic.

To reach this tiny stretch of sand, visitors head down a series of stone steps.

At the end -- if the weather is right -- they're treated to some of the best barrel surfing in the world.

Padang Padang, Unggasan Village, South Kuta District, Bali


MORE: 6 dishes every Bali visitor needs to try

Guests:

Suki, sunglasses designer

Rizal Tanjung, pro surfer

Chris Salans, chef, Mozaic

Natisa Jones, artist

Music:

Sound of Mine 

"Buatku Gila"

Navicula 

"Ingin Kau Datang"

Ian J. Stevenson 

"Disana Dimana"

Dialog Dini Hari 

"Temui Diri"

"The Road"

"Aku dan Burung"

Deep Sea Explorers

"Directions"

Dee Dice

"Will U"

"I Know"

Ito Kurdhi

"Afternoon in Ubud"

"Jaman Edan"

Superman is Dead

"Jika Kami Bersama"

Thursday, September 4, 2014

CNNGo.com

CNNGo.com


No more using Uber in Germany?

Posted: 03 Sep 2014 04:57 PM PDT

A court moves to end the ride for the U.S.-based online chauffeur and ride-sharing service in Germany
Uber logo

In the ongoing fight between chauffeur and ride-sharing app Uber and taxi drivers around the world, score one for the taxi drivers … for now.

A regional court in Frankfurt, Germany, this week issued a preliminary injunction forbidding the San Francisco-based Uber from operating in Germany.

The ruling was in response to a lawsuit filed by Germany's national union of taxi drivers.

The court said that Uber violated German law by working with a network of drivers that lack commercial licenses.

MORE ON CNN MONEY: Is it over for Uber in Germany?

"Violations will result in a fine against Uber of 250,000 euros ($328,108) per ride," according to Deutsche Welle, Germany's international broadcasting service. "Uber plans to appeal the decision and said it would continue offering its services until a final ruling has been made."

Uber vows to ride on

Gaining in popularity worldwide, Uber allows users to connect with "limousine services" and private drivers for ride-sharing via smartphone, often at prices that undercut going local taxi rates.

The company has already been forbidden from operating in individual cities in Germany, including Berlin, reported Deutsche Welle.

According to its website, Uber currently operates in 45 countries.

"Innovation and competition is good for everyone, riders, and drivers, everyone wins," said Uber spokesman Michel Doermer in a statement. "You cannot put the brakes on progress."

In addition to its legal issues in Germany, Uber has been under scrutiny for its business practices elsewhere.

In August, CNN Money reported that Uber employees had ordered and canceled more than 5,000 rides from rival Lyft since last October, in an effort to disrupt operations at that company.

Earlier this year, CNN Money reported that Uber staffers in New York called and withdrew more than 100 ride requests with another taxi app, Gett, in the span of three days.

After that incident, Uber said in a statement that it would "tone down their sales tactics."

More on Uber's German legal woes at CNN Money.