Changsha: A Destination for Foodies and Adventurers

As a world traveler, you're always on the lookout for new and exciting destinations to explore. If you're planning a trip to China, we highly recommend adding Changsha to your itinerary. Located in the Hunan province, Changsha offers a unique blend of history, culture, and cuisine that is sure to captivate and delight any traveler.

One of the highlights of a visit to Changsha is sampling the local delicacies. Hunan cuisine is known for its bold and spicy flavors, and Changsha is no exception. From fiery hotpots to fragrant braised dishes, there is no shortage of delicious and satisfying meals to try.

But perhaps the most famous (or infamous) dish in Changsha is stinky tofu. This fermented tofu has a pungent odor that can be off-putting to some, but for others, it's a must-try culinary experience. If you're feeling adventurous, be sure to give it a taste!

Stinky tofu is made by fermenting tofu in a brine of fermented vegetables, meat, and sometimes shrimp. The process can take anywhere from a few days to several months, depending on the desired level of fermentation. The end result is a tofu that has a strong smell and a unique flavor that is both sweet and savory.

Despite its name and smell, stinky tofu is a beloved delicacy in Changsha and throughout China. It's often served fried or grilled, with a variety of sauces and seasonings to complement its bold flavor. Locals and tourists alike can be seen lining up at street vendors and restaurants for a taste of this unique dish.

But stinky tofu isn't the only culinary delight that Changsha has to offer. Visitors can also enjoy a variety of other local specialties, such as spicy grilled fish, Hunan-style rice noodles, and braised pork belly. And of course, no trip to Changsha would be complete without trying the city's famous hotpot. This communal meal involves cooking various meats, vegetables, and other ingredients in a simmering pot of spicy broth, making it a perfect way to warm up on a chilly evening.

Beyond the food, Changsha has much to offer for travelers interested in history and culture. The city is home to several museums and historic sites, including the Mawangdui Han Tombs, which date back to the Han dynasty. The Orange Isle Scenic Area is also worth a visit, with its beautiful gardens and stunning views of the Xiang River.

So whether you're a foodie looking to sample some of the best flavors that China has to offer, or an adventurer seeking out new cultural experiences, Changsha is a destination that should not be missed.

We couldn't agree more that Changsha is a must-visit destination for foodies and adventurers alike! Have you ever tried stinky tofu or other Hunan specialties? Share your experiences with us in the comments below! And don't forget to follow our account for more travel tips and inspiration. #Changsha #HunanCuisine #StinkyTofu #Foodie #AdventureSeeker

Copyright 2023 Adam R Sweet.

My Trip To Ireland

Many years ago, I had the privilege of being hired to sub on the mandolin and fiddle for a band in Northampton called Klezamir.  There, I met Brian Bender, a piano player who was interested in many styles of  music.  During the break, we chatted about how we got into the styles of music we like to play.  He mentioned going to Israel to study Klezmer.  He asked me if I'd ever gone to Ireland.  Up till then the answer was no.

My Grandfather on my Mother's side was Thomas Kielty.  His family is from County Wicklow, just south of Dublin.  They came to America in the 19th century around the great famine.  My Mother was discriminated against by many people in the early years, but that's another story.  The idea of going over to Ireland was exciting!

The summer of 1995, Brian and I were playing music for a dance at a party in Ashfield, MA.  There, I met an Irish set dancer named Maire Doherty.  She learned about my desire to go to Ireland and invited me to stay with her at her BnB in Kilfenora.  That summer, my wife and I decided to go!

Our trip to Ireland was one of the best trips I've ever taken.  We flew in to the airport and rented a little red car with the steering wheel on the right and the gear shift in the middle.  The journey from Limerick to Kilfenora could have been much faster, but I was jet lagged and not familiar with the car.  The roads in Ireland are narrow and there's only room for one car.  So if someone's coming your way, you have to get over, usually ending up in a bush/hedge or someone's field.

The weather on that first day was overcast, spitting rain.  But the drive to Maire's house was beautiful and I felt like we had entered another world, a magical place.  I maintained this feeling throughout the trip.  We were there for six weeks.  Two in Kilfenora, where I played at Linane's Pub in the center of town, and went to the Kilfenora Set Dance on Thursday nights.  We toured around County Clare, to the Cliffs of Mohr, to Doolin, Lisdoonvarna, and many other places.  One time we went up to Galway and Connemara.  We tried to stay away from tourists, to catch as much music as possible, and to go hiking and walking at every destination spot.

I had the pleasure of learning how to play the treble from Frankie Gavin during a break at a concert in Cork.

My Trip To Ireland

Many years ago, I had the privilege of being hired to sub on the mandolin and fiddle for a band in Northampton called Klezamir.  There, I met Brian Bender, a piano player who was interested in many styles of  music.  During the break, we chatted about how we got into the styles of music we like to play.  He mentioned going to Israel to study Klezmer.  He asked me if I'd ever gone to Ireland.  Up till then the answer was no.

My Grandfather on my Mother's side was Thomas Kielty.  His family is from County Wicklow, just south of Dublin.  They came to America in the 19th century around the great famine.  My Mother was discriminated against by many people in the early years, but that's another story.  The idea of going over to Ireland was exciting!

The summer of 1995, Brian and I were playing music for a dance at a party in Ashfield, MA.  There, I met an Irish set dancer named Maire Doherty.  She learned about my desire to go to Ireland and invited me to stay with her at her BnB in Kilfenora.  That summer, my wife and I decided to go!

Our trip to Ireland was one of the best trips I've ever taken.  We flew in to the airport and rented a little red car with the steering wheel on the right and the gear shift in the middle.  The journey from Limerick to Kilfenora could have been much faster, but I was jet lagged and not familiar with the car.  The roads in Ireland are narrow and there's only room for one car.  So if someone's coming your way, you have to get over, usually ending up in a bush/hedge or someone's field.

The weather on that first day was overcast, spitting rain.  But the drive to Maire's house was beautiful and I felt like we had entered another world, a magical place.  I maintained this feeling throughout the trip.  We were there for six weeks.  Two in Kilfenora, where I played at Linane's Pub in the center of town, and went to the Kilfenora Set Dance on Thursday nights.  We toured around County Clare, to the Cliffs of Mohr, to Doolin, Lisdoonvarna, and many other places.  One time we went up to Galway and Connemara.  We tried to stay away from tourists, to catch as much music as possible, and to go hiking and walking at every destination spot.

I had the pleasure of learning how to play the treble from Frankie Gavin during a break at a concert in Cork.