India

I remember dipping fries into ketchup in India as a kid and thinking "what the hell is this stuff?" It was definitely ketchup — thick, sweet and dark — but it was sharper and more spiced than its glossy, pale red American counterpart. Comprehending as an American child that another country's ketchup could possibly be better on more things really did a number on my juvenile patriotism. And it really didn't help the early onset urge to photograph and document what I ate.

The subcontinent does really impressive things with poultry. Classic chicken tikka masala just may be the perfect chicken recipe — debate its authenticity all you want. Pound out a fresh batch of garam masala in your trusty mortar and pestle (or just go to the Indian grocery store, whatever) and knock out an easy yet exotic dish for a delicious meal.

Visit the Falaknuma Palace in Hyderabad, India and you'll discover a haven of mixology. Bartender Gautam Shah uses local ingredients from the estate grounds to mix fresh, seasonal drinks. This sour martini highlights jasmine flowers and fresh-squeezed lemon juice for a refreshing take on an old classic. Palace or no palace, we recommend you sip this summertime drink outdoors.