BANGKOK – It was once known as the first western-style mega mall in Bangkok but nowadays MBK’s claim to fame is the rather unfortunate nickname “ground zero for all things pirated.”  Like Bangkok’s infamous Chatuchak market, I have a love-hate relationship with MBK – the swarm of families decked out in the latest knock-offs is enough to scare the [...]

  By MONICA BYERS LONDON – Borough Market is London’s oldest food market and, hands down, my absolute favorite part of London.  It’s called a “foodie’s paradise” because of its abundance of fresh and prepared food stalls, but wine, beer and merchandise are also on offer here.  This was always my go-to spot to pick up my paella ingredients, as [...]

  By MONICA BYERS LONDON - I always experience neighborhood envy in Spitalfields, and have pledged that I will someday reside on Folgate Street.  The atmosphere created by the juxtaposition of the area’s inescapable history, the nearby bustle of the City of London and the energetic buzz of the cafes and pubs is all rather irresistible. Spitalfields is an East End neighborhood [...]

BANGKOK – Chatuchak…the infamous weekend market.  Okay, not really a fave; actually a love-hate relationship.  For me, Chatuchak (or JJ as the locals call it) is one gigantic assault on the senses – the crowds, the chaos, the odors, the heat and the endless aisles of anything and everything.  But JJ is also about shopping and to a large extent [...]

  TOKYO – Of all of Japan’s many contributions, the ubiquitous and wonderful Japanese convenience store (the konbini) has got to be one of the best.  Known by various names – am pm, 7-Eleven, Lawsons, Family Mart – Japanese konbinis, set the standard for convenience stores everywhere.  Whether it’s magazines for every occasion; a huge selection of snacks; the latest [...]