Even Adults Cook: UK Travelogue No. 5
Culinary Creations and UK Travel Musings
This article blends a glimpse into homemade Japanese lunches with reflections on a recent solo trip to the United Kingdom. The author shares details of their bento box creations alongside thoughts on travel planning and experiences.
Bento Box Highlights
The author showcases several meticulously prepared lunch boxes, featuring a variety of dishes. One example includes:
- Cod Saikyoyaki (miso-marinated cod)
- Grilled eggs with edamame
- Toasted paprika and cheese
- Hijiki side dish (frozen)
The author expresses a fondness for adding edamame to omelets and mentions a “YouTube twist” on toasted paprika and cheese, lamenting the inability to find the original video. They appreciate the “pop finish” that paprika and edamame provide.
Another lunch box features:
- Pig minced pork and lotus root
- Iso Chikuwa (seaweed flavored fish sausage, frozen)
- Boiled eggs
- Paprika with bonito flakes
- Green beans with sesame seeds
The pork and lotus root recipe is attributed to Yamamoto Yuri. The author notes it was initially made for dinner and enjoyed so much that it became a regular addition to their lunch boxes. The paprika side dish is credited to Okuzono Sensei, and the green beans to Niki from whiterice.com.
UK Travel Reflections
Shifting gears, the author touches upon their solo travels in the UK, specifically referencing events around January 1st. This entry appears to be part of a series, with previous installments detailing earlier aspects of the trip.
The author mentions anticipating the arrival of a new credit card but questions whether a standard, less expensive card might be a better option. They also express difficulty in finding JAL (Japan Airlines) sales and inquire how others manage to secure these deals. They speculate that a domestic JAL card might offer cost savings for future travel.
The author refers to previous articles about their solo New Year’s holiday travels in the UK, providing links for further reading.
Additional Resources
Links to previous blog entries about the author’s UK travels:
London Bridges and tower Views: A Traveler’s Account
An account details a recent journey through London, highlighting iconic landmarks and everyday experiences. The traveler’s itinerary included visits to several of the city’s famous bridges and a stop at a familiar coffee chain.
Millennium Bridge and St. Paul’s
The evening began with a visit to the Millennium Bridge, a modern pedestrian bridge known for its appearance in the “Harry Potter” films. The traveler noted the bridge’s sleek design and cautioned visitors about potentially slippery conditions in rainy weather. Views from the bridge include St.Paul’s Cathedral.
A Change of Plans: Tower Bridge via Bus
Originally intending to walk from the Millennium Bridge to tower Bridge, the traveler adjusted plans due to rain and fading daylight.Opting for a bus ride, they recommended this mode of transport for those wanting to reach Tower Bridge quickly and comfortably.
London Bridge: A Brief Crossing
En route to the bus stop, the traveler briefly crossed London Bridge, describing it as an ordinary, unremarkable bridge.
Tower Bridge at Dusk
Arriving at Tower Bridge, the traveler observed the landmark illuminated against the evening sky. While noting that entry to the tower requires a fee, they admired the bridge’s aesthetic, notably its subtle blue lighting.
Tower of London and a Starbucks Stop
The traveler passed by the Tower of London as the sun set,appreciating the contrast between the historic structure and modern buildings nearby. Seeking refuge from the cold, they stopped at a Starbucks.
The traveler noted a difference in ordering customs compared to Japan, observing that menus are not always readily available at the counter in UK coffee shops. They also shared an anecdote about a helpful stranger in the Starbucks restroom.
Solo Traveler’s Pub Experience in London: Navigating Culture and Cuisine
LONDON – A solo traveler recently shared their experience visiting a pub in London,offering insights into navigating cultural nuances and enjoying conventional British fare. The traveler, who documented their journey through photos and anecdotes, highlighted both the potential challenges and rewarding aspects of venturing out alone in a new city.
Venturing into the Unknown
The traveler’s day began with a ride on the London Underground.Seeking an authentic experience, they decided to dine at a local pub. ”I happened to be alone, so I took a photo. This is what the UK subway looks like,” they wrote, before detailing the decision to try a pub dinner.
Addressing Concerns and Finding Hospitality
Aware of a past review mentioning potential racism at the chosen establishment, the traveler approached the visit with caution. “I saw a review that a single japanese woman visited, so I went here. (There is one review of racism that bothers me…),” they noted. Fortunately, the experience was positive. “A pleasant store clerk responded to me,perhaps because I was lucky,” the traveler reported.
Navigating Pub Etiquette
The traveler described the typical pub experience: “In pubs, you usually sit on your own and order at the counter, so you will have to choose your own seat.” They opted for a window seat on the less crowded second floor, acknowledging a possible breach of local custom. “This is information I’ve seen somewhere, but the seats are nice by the window, so don’t you get one other than local people? Apparently?” they mused, wondering if their choice raised eyebrows.
Modern Ordering in a Traditional Setting
The pub offered a modern twist on the traditional ordering process. Customers could scan a QR code at their table to access an online menu and place their orders. “This shop is on the table QR code You can load and order from there. it might be a little different from a regular pub,” the traveler observed, noting that some patrons still preferred using physical menus.
Overcoming Language Barriers and Tourist Recognition
Despite the availability of a translation feature on the ordering site,the traveler found it less than helpful. “Incidentally, you can translate this site into Japanese, but there are no English words that are very difficult. Actually, it’s better not to translate. It’s so literal that it’s hard to understand.” The traveler’s apparent struggle with the online system caught the attention of a staff member, who offered assistance, recognizing them as a tourist.
Age verification and Refreshments
Before enjoying their drink, the traveler was asked to verify their age. “By the way, the lady who provided the beer told me, ’Is there anything I can check my age? Is there a passport?’ so everyone is required when going here,” they explained, advising others to be prepared to show identification.
A Satisfying Meal
The traveler opted for the classic Fish and Chips, choosing a salad as a side. “I chose Fish and Chips, but since chips were charged separately, I chose the salad…I ate it with excitement, but the taste was delicious,” they recounted, noting the generous portion size.
A Memorable Experience
Despite initial anxieties, the traveler described the pub visit as a highlight of their trip. “It was probably the most fulfilling thing I’ve ever had in my life,” they concluded, attributing the positive experience to a combination of good food, friendly service, and a willingness to embrace the local culture.
Culinary Creations and UK Travel Musings
This article blends a glimpse into homemade Japanese lunches with reflections on a recent solo trip to the United Kingdom. The author shares details of their bento box creations alongside thoughts on travel planning and experiences.
Bento Box Highlights
The author showcases several meticulously prepared lunch boxes, featuring a variety of dishes. One example includes:
* Cod saikyoyaki (miso-marinated cod)
* Grilled eggs with edamame
* Toasted paprika and cheese
* Hijiki side dish (frozen)
The author expresses a fondness for adding edamame to omelets and mentions a “YouTube twist” on toasted paprika and cheese, lamenting the inability to find the original video. They appreciate the “pop finish” that paprika and edamame provide.
Another lunch box features:
* Pig minced pork and lotus root
* Iso Chikuwa (seaweed flavored fish sausage,frozen)
* Boiled eggs
* Paprika with bonito flakes
* Green beans with sesame seeds
The pork and lotus root recipe is attributed to yamamoto Yuri. The author notes it was initially made for dinner and enjoyed so much that it became a regular addition to their lunch boxes. The paprika side dish is credited to Okuzono Sensei, and the green beans to Niki from whiterice.com.
UK Travel Reflections
Shifting gears, the author touches upon their solo travels in the UK, specifically referencing events around January 1st. This entry appears to be part of a series, with previous installments detailing earlier aspects of the trip.
The author mentions anticipating the arrival of a new credit card but questions weather a standard, less expensive card might be a better option. They also express difficulty in finding JAL (Japan Airlines) sales and inquire how others manage to secure these deals.