Is Mandarin Buffet Dinner Worth It? Friday Night Dinner in Midtown Toronto

Exploring the Upgraded Dinner Menu at Mandarin Buffet (Yonge & Eglinton)

I recently embarked on a culinary adventure to the Mandarin Buffet at its bustling Yonge and Eglinton location, specifically for their Friday night dinner service. Having previously explored their offerings, I was eager to see if the more extensive dinner menu justified the higher price point. For example, dinner is $41 but lunch is only $26. So, it’s a $15 spread.

Stepping inside, the atmosphere was lively, though surprisingly not overly crowded for a Friday evening. I wanted to see the highlights of their dinner spread, which boasts a significant upgrade from their lunch offerings. The most notable additions? A dedicated sushi section brimming with fresh rolls and sashimi, succulent prime rib carved to order, and a more generous selection of seafood.

I navigated through the various stations, each a tempting display of culinary delights. From classic sweet and sour pork to flavorful baked teriyaki salmon and my personal favorite, the crispy braided torpedo shrimp, the main dish selection was vast and varied. The salad bar offered a refreshing counterpoint, while the dessert station was a sugary wonderland, featuring everything from creamy mango pudding to decadent cakes and a tempting array of ice cream flavors.

While the Mandarin Buffet consistently offers a wide array of dishes, the dinner service features premium additions like a more extensive seafood selection, including mussels, and prime rib. These upgrades come with a noticeable price increase of approximately $15 over their lunch menu.

Personally, while I appreciate the availability of these higher-end items, they aren't my top culinary priorities. If you value a wider variety of seafood and prime rib, the dinner service might be worthwhile.

However, considering my own preferences, I found the added cost didn't entirely justify the extra offerings. In the future, I'll likely stick to the Mandarin Buffet's lunch service, which still provides a satisfying and diverse all-you-can-eat experience at a more budget-friendly price point.

Experiencing the Maldives on a Budget: Exploring Dhigurah

Discover the Maldives on a Budget: Dhigurah, the Gateway to Paradise

Last time, I wrote about Maafushi, a local island in the Maldives.  Today, I will talk about another island, Dhigurah. Nestled in the South Ari Atoll, Dhigurah takes longer to reach from Male (than Maafushi) – about 2.5 hours by public ferry or 1.5 hours by speedboat.

Dhigurah offers a fantastic, budget-friendly alternative to the resort islands. Dhigurah provides a chance to experience the beauty of the Maldives without breaking the bank. Accommodation on Dhigurah is primarily in guesthouses and small hotels, with options starting from around $50-$100 per night, which is comparable to Maafushi. This allows you to save significantly compared to the pricey resorts. You'll also find local restaurants serving delicious Maldivian cuisine at affordable prices.

This picturesque island, stretching over 3 kilometers in length, is one of the longest in the Maldives and is renowned for its pristine beaches, crystal-clear waters, and vibrant marine life. 

One of the main attractions of Dhigurah is its proximity to some of the best diving and snorkeling spots in the Maldives. The island is famous for its whale shark excursions, as the South Ari Atoll is home to a year-round population of these gentle giants. Swimming alongside a whale shark is an unforgettable experience that draws adventure enthusiasts from around the world. The island’s house reefs are equally captivating, teeming with colorful coral gardens, tropical fish, and even the occasional manta ray.

One notable feature of Dhigurah is its expansive "bikini beach," allowing tourists to wear swimwear freely. Remember to dress respectfully when venturing away from the beach.

Dhigurah’s long, sandy beaches are perfect for leisurely strolls or simply soaking up the sun. The island’s lush greenery and traditional Maldivian architecture add to its charm, offering a glimpse into the local way of life. Visitors can explore the island by bike or on foot, interacting with friendly locals and learning about their culture and traditions.

Ultimately, both Maafushi and Dhigurah provide access to the Maldives on a budget. Whether you’re an adventure seeker, a nature lover, or simply looking to unwind, Dhigurah promises an unforgettable Maldivian experience. Its untouched beauty and serene atmosphere make it a must-visit destination for those exploring the Maldives beyond the usual tourist hotspots.

Power Bank Rules CHANGING in 2025! What You NEED to Know Before Flying

Power Bank Rule Changes You MUST Know! (2025 Update)

Misinformation is floating around on the Internet, especially on YouTube! The majority of what I’m talking about is AI-generated content spreading misinformation to instill fear and get views. I doubt those behind these so-called travel tips content have actually traveled before.

Today, I will simplify the new rules for power banks on planes that are coming in March 2025.  Some airlines are already ahead of the game, so let's make sure you're in the know!

- EVA Air are now prohibiting the use of power banks during the flight. You can bring them, but you can't use them to charge your devices onboard. So make sure you're fully charged before you board.
- Korean Air and Asiana Airlines, both based in South Korea, are also tightening things up. They're asking passengers to keep their power banks with them at their seats, not in the overhead bins. Safety first!
- Now, here's the good news: Most airlines are still cool with small power banks. Anything under 100 watt-hours is usually fine. But if your power bank is bigger than that, you might need to check with the airline first.

Here is the most important piece of advice you need to know that is applicable to any trip: Do not trust anything you read and check the source first. In this context, always check with the airline you are flying about the updated rules for power banks.

By the time you are reading this article, what I stated here about power banks may not be valid, so always check with your airline before flying. Happy, safe, and stress-free travels to you all!

We Tried Shake Shack's Cheapest Meal: Disappointed?

Is Shake Shack’s Basic Meal Worth the Cost?

Shake Shack has finally arrived in Toronto, bringing its much-hyped burgers and shakes to the heart of Dundas Square. But does the reality live up to the hype, especially when you're trying to keep things budget friendly? We decided to put their basic meal for two to the test, ordering two single Shack Burgers, a Coke, and an order of crinkle-cut fries. Our goal: to see if a simple, affordable meal at Shake Shack is a satisfying experience or just a gateway to more expensive options.

The location itself is prime, right near the Eaton Centre, making it a convenient stop for shoppers and tourists. However, the excitement quickly faded as we tasted our meal. The single ShackBurger, the supposed star of the show, was surprisingly underwhelming. While the patty was cooked well enough, it was excessively oily, leaving a greasy aftertaste. More importantly, the burger lacked any real flavor. It tasted…basic—disappointingly so.

The Coke was another letdown. It tasted noticeably watered down, a far cry from the crisp, refreshing drink we expected.

The crinkle-cut fries, thankfully, were the saving grace of the meal. They were crispy on the outside, fluffy on the inside, and adequately salted. They weren't exceptional, but they were a solid side.

The final verdict? At $28.20 CAD for this basic meal, we weren't impressed. The underwhelming burger and watered-down Coke left us feeling like we hadn't gotten our money's worth.

It almost felt like Shake Shack intentionally made their basic menu items less appealing to encourage customers to upgrade to their more premium (and pricier) offerings.

If you're looking for a truly satisfying burger experience, you might be better off exploring other options in the city. If you're dead-set on trying Shake Shack, be prepared to shell out a bit more for their specialty burgers and shakes. The basic meal for two, in our opinion, is simply not worth it.

Experiencing the Maldives on a Budget: Exploring Maafushi

Discover the Maldives on a Budget: Maafushi, the Gateway to Paradise

The Maldives is often synonymous with luxury resorts and overwater bungalows and is often seen as a destination reserved for the wealthy. However, this breathtaking archipelago has a secret: it’s possible to experience its beauty on a budget by exploring its local islands. However, this budget option not well known among international travellers.

I will discuss a few local islands, starting with Maafushi today. This local island is the most visited because of its proximity to the Malé airport.

Located just 27 kilometers south of Malé, where the international airport is situated, Maafushi is easily accessible by a 1.5-hour local ferry ride or a 30-minute speedboat journey. Its proximity to the capital makes it a convenient and affordable base for travelers looking to explore the Maldives’ stunning marine life, white-sand beaches, and vibrant culture.

Once on the island, budget accommodations abound, with guesthouses and lodges catering to travelers seeking a comfortable yet cost-effective stay. For as little as USD 50 per night, visitors can enjoy basic amenities, including air conditioning and Wi-Fi, ensuring a pleasant and restful experience.

Food options on Maafushi cater to various tastes and budgets, with local eateries serving up delectable Maldivian and international cuisine. For a mere USD 7-10 per meal, visitors can indulge in freshly-caught seafood, curries, and tropical fruits, guaranteeing a gastronomic experience that's easy on the wallet.

The island boasts a lively atmosphere with a diverse range of guesthouses and budget-friendly resorts to suit various budgets. Visitors can enjoy a variety of activities, from snorkeling and diving in the crystal-clear waters to exploring the vibrant local market and indulging in delicious Maldivian cuisine. Maafushi provides an excellent introduction to the Maldives for travelers seeking an authentic and affordable experience.

I will be visiting Maafushi on my upcoming trip and will bring you real-life experience. You can follow the entire Maldives trip on my YouTube Channel: Ahmed Dawn