DATE IDEAS | INTERNATIONAL AFFAIR
Looking for an exotic locale in a faraway land ... but still would maybe like to stay within driving distance? No problem at all.
Looking for an exotic locale in a faraway land ... but would maybe like to stay within driving distance if you can? No problem at all. You don't have to go to the mountain; the mountain has come to you!
South of the Border
You can, of course, enjoy any of the Tex-Mex or Latin restaurants here in town, but how about venturing out a little farther? Reminisce about the good ol' days over a fine cigar paired with a rum-based drink (a Cuban tradition) at Havana Social Club. (While you're there, ask them about their periodic cigar rolling classes.) Try Jamaican specialties here locally, or pop a little umbrella into your daiquiri as you jaunt down to Galveston for a quick (or not so quick) cruise to Mexico or the Caribbean. Just be sure to make it back in time for the Terlingua International Chili Championship down near the river.
Across the Pond
British Emporium in Grapevine stocks food and gifts from the British Isles such as Yorkshire pudding mixes, Oxford marmalade, pickled cockles, haggis, and the largest selection of English teas in all of North Texas. Journey over to The Londoner for a UK platter (including English cheeses and a Scotch egg) or spoon up some bangers and mash at Sherlock's Baker St. Pub.
The Hills are Alive
For a taste of life across the channel, check out wine sampling and other events organized by DFW's French-American Chamber of Commerce or the Italian Club of Dallas. Scoop up some Italian-style gelato and transport yourself to Venice, Italy (via Irving, Texas) by hopping aboard a relaxing Gondola Adventure, or socialize over a communal pipe at Kush Mediterranean Bar & Grill with Hookah Lounge. Mmmm, dip into a pot of cheese fondue or allow staff at The Melting Pot to flambe a chocolate, caramel, chopped pecan 'flaming turtle' directly at your table. Keep your eyes peeled as well for annual celebrations such as the North Texas Irish Festival, National Polka Festival, Texas Scottish Festival, Oktoberfest, Greek Food Festival of Dallas, and more.
Asian Influence
Experience the treasures of the Eastern world at one of the area's museums (namely The Crow Collection of Asian Art), attend the Asian Festival or Asian Film Festival, or try some sushi. Come on, don't be shy - some sushi rolls contain no raw fish at all. Besides, we'll fill you in on everything you need to know. Plus, Zenna Thai and Japanese Restaurant has one of the best happy hours in town. Watch hibachi chefs cook teppanyaki style right at your table when you visit Benihana, or sip on a refreshing Vietnamese beer or ice coffee at Pho Colonial while you choose which grilled meat you'd like them to add to your traditional pho, banh mi, or bun.
Around the World ... and Beyond
Dallas offers a wide variety of diverse cultural events and activities. Brush up on international protocols at Berlitz Language Instruction and Cultural Consulting, take in a foreign film at one of the Angelika theaters, or get tough with a course in Krav Maga Personal Safety (the official combat system of the Israeli Defense Forces). Entertain and educate yourself at WorldFest in Addison, the Plano International Festival, or the Texas State Festival of Ethnic Cultures in Ballinger.
Of course, when you've finished exploring this planet, you can always just fly on out to another galaxy from one of the area's planetariums.
Happy adventuring!