During the summertime, I’m always looking for a light, refreshing dish for lunch or dinner. And this edamame salad with chickpeas, tomatoes, and feta is protein packed and so quick and easy to make. Perfect for picnics or an easy weeknight meal, this chickpea salad has become one of our favorites. Edamame & Chickpea Salad…
This post is sponsored by the Grand Ole Opry. When it comes to weekend getaways, Nashville is perfect for food-lovers. I flew up to see a show at the Grand Ole Opry and was pleasantly surprised by the city’s food scene. The list of delicious eats and fun things to do in Nashville are endless!…
This watermelon feta salad is inspired by a visit to the EPCOT Flower & Garden Festival. The springtime event is really a smaller version of the autumn food and wine fest, with more of a focus on farm fresh seasonal foods. This vibrant bowl of color, with bright pink pickled onions, green arugula, and crumbled…
With blueberry season in full swing here in Florida, we had to get out to our local farm for the u-pick season and to sip some of their delicious blueberry lemonade! Southern Hill Farms seemed to up the ante this year when it comes to food because we also devoured some of their irresistible blueberry…
We all need a few travel beauty hacks to save us time while traveling (and packing space too!). Whenever I’m on the road, I lighten up my morning routine so I can spend less time getting ready and more time out having adventures. With just a few tweaks to your make-up bag along with these…
Meatless Monday and taco Tuesday seem to run together in our house with these quinoa and black bean burrito bowls. In an effort to eat healthier meals and have at least one meatless night a week, I had to make it look appetizing and a burrito-style quinoa bowl seemed to do the trick. The benefits…
True Italian coffee is nothing like what we see in the United States. The menu looks totally different and you almost need a seperate guide to ordering coffee in Italy. First of all, Starbucks has it all wrong. It’s “piccolo, medio, and grande” instead of Tall, Grande, and Venti. And truly, I haven’t seen anything…
I’ve been on a bit of a grain discovery kick lately, trying old recipes with new-to-me ingredients like farro and spelt. So I was excited to try this recipe for barley pancakes with blueberry sauce found in the new cookbook — FEAST: Recipes & Stories From A Canadian Road Trip. The Story Behind The Recipe I…
One of the questions I’m most often asked is how we manage to travel around the world with only carry on luggage. I do admit, it take some planning. But being organized and packing light takes so much stress out of travel. Some of the benefits of traveling with a carry on only include: saving…
Is it safe to travel to Jordan? This was the first thought running through my mind as I was invited to go on a work trip for iAmbassador. I looked up at my huge map of the world hanging above the desk in my office and mentally noted who Jordan’s neighbors are — Syria, Iraq,…
Some of the links below are affiliate links. Blueberry muffins have always been one of my favorite breakfast treats! From the time I was a little girl, to making welcome baskets for guests at my former inn, to leisurely weekend mornings now, blueberry muffins for breakfast are my favorite. I’ve been a bit obsessed with…
This story is in partnership with All Nippon Airways. Beautiful chaos. That was my first impression of Hanoi. Motorbikes whizzing by, seemingly not following any set of traffic rules, but the drivers all weaving in and out of each others path with a calm acceptance of the disorder. A constant hum of a busy city,…
I travel frequently, so in-between trips and meeting writing deadlines, I like to drink my breakfast or lunch in a smoothie form. It’s fast and pretty easy to make with a few freezer prep tips I have below. This recipe is for a green smoothie I make on a regular basis. I call it my “jet…
Food is a multi-sensory experience, so what happens when you take away your sense of sight for a Dining In The Dark experience? Will the flavors of a meal seem more intense if you can’t see it? Personally, I couldn’t imagine not looking at my food, especially as a food blogger that takes a picture…
Planning what you can take for carry on liquids that meet TSA’s 3-1-1 rule requirements can seem like an impossible task. If you’re not familiar with TSA’s 3-1-1 rule, for air travel, you can only carry liquids and gels in bottles that are 3.4 ounces (or 100 milliliters) and it must all fit in 1…
Whenever we travel, I always use social media to discover a great place to eat — from throwing out a question on Twitter with a hashtag of the city, to scrolling through Instagram. Both methods have produced some amazing finds, but Instagram is usually the one that makes me drool. If you want to know which…
One of the questions we’re most often asked via social media and email is for packing tips. While our advice might change depending on the destination, there are a few items we never leave home without. This packing list of travel essentials includes items we recommend always having in your bag — especially your carry-on…
If you’re the type that pulls out your green sweater and flips through your iPod to find some Celtic music to get into the spirit of things (eh uhm … I’m not describing myself at all), then this recipe’s for you. From the Iron Horse Inn in Texas.
When visiting sunny Sicily, granita is a must! You’ll find street carts and small cafes scooping this semi-frozen dessert into cups with a small spoon and a straw. Granita is a lot like an Italian slurpee, a sweet slushy drink that’s much easier to sip than it is to eat — especially on a warm…
While there are many cities in Italy I’d recommend visiting, Reggio Emilia is one where I’d also recommend living. After just spending a day here I was ready to pack my bags and start apartment hunting. It’s quaint, stylish, and sophisticated yet also very welcoming. (And how could it not be, it’s the home of…
Cavatappi is a toothsome pasta, named for it’s curlicue corkscrew shape that’s perfect for holding on to a savory sauce — and you’re going to love this lemon ricotta sauce we have below. This recipe is inspired by a dinner we had at a Sicilian wine estate just outside Catania during our food tour of…
Whether you’re visiting for business or for pleasure, there are are ton of delicious Zurich restaurants to try. From lakefront dining with a view, to traditional Swiss comfort foods, to a place that holds the world record for being the first vegetarian restaurant ever. I was quite impressed with the variety of dining spots available,…
While visiting Seoul, we frequently indulged in the ultimate Korean comfort food – Bibimbap. The name bibimbap literally translates to “mixed rice” and consists of sautéed meat and vegetables arranged separately, and sometimes rather artfully, over a bowl of rice. Some are served with a fried egg on top along with a sweet and spicy…
As a food and travel blogger, I’m always on the search for the most epic dining experiences. One of the questions I’m most often asked is “what is the most memorable meal you’ve ever had?” Truth is, there is no “one” ultimate experience to recount as each of these moments shine in their own unique…
One of the things I love about this tiramisu recipe is that it’s easy to make and quick to impress. And it makes for a fascinating dinner party conversation since tiramisu is one of those desserts with a mysterious origin story. Having been to Italy several times now, and doing a bit of research, it seems…
The term farm-to-table is so commonly used that it can be cliché, but there are some chefs and restaurants truly doing this food movement justice, including the Sprouting Project at Omni Amelia Island Plantation Resort. Located along the Florida Georgia boarder, with the Atlantic Ocean to the east, and intracoastal waterways curving around the island to the…
If you’re a fan of chocolate, coffee, or anything mocha flavored, you’re going to love the Finnish dessert, mokkapalat. Similar to mocha brownies, Mokkapalat is a short, dense, chocolate cake with a rich mocha frosting. And the name mokkapalat translates to ‘suede pieces’ in English, which I think is quite fitting for the decadent texture and…
It’s been an unusually cold season, and so we’ve been craving comfort foods like this slow cooker Guinness Beef Stew. A slow cooker is so easy to prep in the morning, and the whole house ends up smelling so wonderful that I look forward to dinner all day. There’s nothing like a hearty Irish stew…
During our delicious culinary adventure through Seoul, we couldn’t wait to explore the flavors of Korean food. In between strolling through the historic neighborhood of Bukchon Hanok Village and the bustling modern city streets of Gangnam-gu, we stopped to eat every chance we could! There was traditional royal court cuisine, cozy teahouse with delectable sweets,…
Sausage and onions are one of my husband Pete’s favorite meals, so I created a way to make it somewhat healthy (i.e. vegetables) with this Italian Sausage Skillet with cannellini beans, tomatoes, Italian sausage and spinach. Inspired by our recipe for Portuguese Sausage & Beans, this one-skillet dinner is low carb and faster to make….
There are so many delicious journey’s to take through Italy! Having traveled through the Emilia Romagna region and Tuscany multiple times, we were so glad to finally make it down to Sicily and Southern Italy while working with EF Go Ahead Tours to highlight their southern Italy food tour. While we anticipated indulging in amazing food, there…
Typically, when I go on a ski vacation, I like to settle down in a condo at the end of the day and do my own cooking. While I love to dine out, some nights I just feel like kicking off my ski boots, propping my feet up by the fireplace, and snuggling up to…
If there’s one thing that can make our traditional holiday coquito recipe even more delicious, it’s adding a dash of pistachio (or cocoa, but that’s a different post 😉 ). In case you’re unfamiliar with coquito, it’s a traditional Puerto Rican holiday drink that is similar to egg nog, but with coconut. The first time…
If you ever told me I’d have mega-fun going away for a weekend visit to Kentucky or Ohio, I would have wrinkled my nose in disbelief and said, ‘when pigs fly!’ Little did I know! The Flying Pig Half Marathon won me over. Last weekend I flew up to Cincinnati with a group of girlfriends…
Yes, this lemon linguine recipe truly comes from an Italian contessa. Just outside of the city of Catania, in the Sicilian countryside, is a sprawling farm with charmingly rustic 17th century stables and buildings. During our Southern Italy food journey with EF Go Ahead Tours, our guide brought us out to this rural farmhouse owned…
Being on-the-go traveling all the time can take it’s toll on your body and staying healthy while traveling is always at the top of my mind. I certainly feel completely wiped out after a trip. You know how the saying goes, “you need a vacation after your vacation.” Changing time zones, not getting enough rest,…
With the lasting chill in the air this winter season, I’ve been craving hot comfort foods. And while there’s no shortage of yummy recipes to warm up the heart and soul, it is January so I’m trying to stick to a healthy glutton-free, dairy-free diet. Jody, with Legal Nomads, has been posting all kinds of…
With three different cultural backgrounds in our family (Puerto Rican, French Canadian, and Thai), our holiday dinner table is a global fusion of flavors. For the last few years, I’ve re-created my coconut flan recipe and turned it into a pumpkin flan to add a bit of autumnal spices for the fall and winter season….
Meat pie is a Christmas tradition in our home. My mother’s side of the family is French Canadian, and while in Canada this common Christmas dish is known as tourtiere, we just simply called it meat pie. It’s a savory pie with minced meat, potatoes, and flavored with seasonal spices like cinnamon, allspice, and cloves….
Between packing and last-minute travel planning, it is sometimes easy to forget that you should prep your home for vacation too. But just a little work ahead of time will help bring you peace of mind while away. Here’s a great checklist to go through the week before your travel. From filling your freezer with…
Butterbeer is a tradition in Britain, long before the Wizarding World of Harry Potter came along. Doing a bit of research, I found one historic recipe for butterbeer that dates back to 1588 as recorded in The Good Huswifes Handmaide for the Kitchin. How’s that for a vintage cocktail! This butterbeer recipe, however, is inspired by a combination…
I recently hosted a Facebook Live video to chat about my favorite travel jewelry organizer ideas – from jewelry organizer fails, to fashion-forward boxes, and even an easy and frugal way to keep your necklaces from tangling. While I normally keep things simple when it comes to jewelry, especially since my camera ends up being…
There are so many fun ways to celebrate Christmas at Universal Orlando Resort. Get into the holiday spirit with a hot Butterbeer, the awe-inspiring Macy’s Parade, and the new light show at Hogwarts! Take a look at all of our favorite reasons to celebrate the season at Universal below. “Our hearts grow tender with childhood…
The holidays are not only the season of giving, it’s also the season of eating! The Christmas Markets in Europe have so many delicious treats to indulge in this time of year. Here’s a list of our favorite Christmas Market foods. 7 European Christmas Market Foods To Try Raclette Raclette is a swiss cheese that’s melted over…
There are places in this world that magnify the magical feeling of the holiday season, especially in Europe. Half-timbered houses dusted in snow, giant fir trees in every town square, and garland strung with lights around pop up shops certainly set the mood. But the best Christmas markets in Europe will have you believing that…
This apple cider chicken is the perfect autumn salad for balancing out all those sweet pumpkin-flavored indulgences. It’s light, refreshing, eash-to-make, and has a great a autumn apple cider flavor with a bit of a sweet crunch from the crispy shallots. I like to make it with cress since it’s a nutritional power house packed…
Whether you’re flying internationally for the first time, or are a seasoned traveler looking for a bit of relief, we’ve got 7 helpful tips below on how to beat jet lag. JET LAG – WHAT TO EXPECT So, what is jet lag? Merriam-Webster defines it as “a condition characterized by various psychological and physiological effects…
I’ve been experimenting quite a bit with my original marshmallow recipe and decided to give my favorite winter coffee drink flavor a go — Mocha Peppermint! Now, this marshmallow recipe is actually for chocolate peppermint marshmallows, but they are a divine accompaniment to dunk into your favorite cuppa coffee or cocoa. Read This: Mocha Marshmallows…
With autumn on the horizon, I have fragrant slow cooker recipes on the mind. And nothing is more savory and comforting than a classic stew such as Beef Bourguignon (beef stewed in red wine). This inspired me to dust off my vintage Julia Child cookbook again as I had done previously with the Coq Au…
When it comes to travel, we’re always trying to get ahead of the trends (and the crowds!), so when I was asked to visit Greenville, South Carolina, on an assignment to scope out their foodie scene and take photographs for an advertorial, my curiosity was piqued. I had never been to Greenville before and hadn’t…
Mango sticky rice is pretty much ubiquitous with the city of Chiang Mai. Everywhere you go in northern Thailand, from restaurants to small stalls at the night markets, you’ll find this sweet coconut milk soaked dessert. It is such a simple dish with only three ingredients: fresh sliced mango, rice, and coconut milk. And while…
When you think of theme parks, the kind of dining that usually comes to mind includes giant turkey legs, popcorn, and churros. And while I love me some churros, you know I’m always on the hunt for the uninque and delicious. As I’ve been on the Blog Squad for Universal Orlando Resort, I’ve discovered that…
[sponsored] Earlier this month we talked about a few of our favorite summer vacation essentials, including a hand fan — my secret weapon for beating the heat! As we live in Florida, sometimes I think we take these summer in the south tips for granted. But as I’ve had friends visit from up north, I…
I do love a good origin story when it comes to food, especially when a few legends are mixed in. And chimichurri is just the kind of condiment that’ll get a friendly foodie debate going after a few glasses of Malbec are poured. If you’re not familiar with chimichurri, it’s most widely known as an…
A version of this post was originally published on Four Seasons Magazine as part of the 22-day blogging journey for the inaugural #FSJet Around The World By Private Jet experience. With only a few days in Mumbai during our around the world trip, I wanted to make sure to experience as much as possible during…
With the next season of Game of Thrones about to launch this weekend, I’m just a wee bit excited! We are hooked on the show, and last year I had the opportunity to visit several of the filming locations in Northern Ireland. I wrote about the whole Northern Ireland GoT Tour as soon as I…
Universal Orlando Resort’s new theme park, Volcano Bay, is now open! I had the opportunity to visit during their opening week as part of Universal Orlando’s Blog Squad, and there are so many things about the park that truly blew me away. I’ve got the full scoop here including tips for planning your visit, what…
Summer vacation is quintessentially American — the days are longer, more people have time off from work, and sweet memories are made. But if you’re going to survive summer in the south, there are a few key essentials that will make your summer vacation more enjoyable. 1 – Pack A Hand Fan And Sweater These…
I’ve got cucumber melon soaps and lotions, but I don’t think I’ve actually made anything flavored cucumber melon until now! After a minor dental surgery (no fun) I had to only eat soft foods for two weeks. The tricky part was also avoiding tomato or citrus-based ingredients since their acidity would burn (ouch!). Most of my…
Sometimes, you need to sneak a little more veg into your diet – which is why I whipped up this spinach and kale pesto. I just recently had a gum graft (no fun), and it basically put me on a soft foods diet for two weeks. At first I was all, “Yeaaaaaah! I’ve got a prescription to eat…
A version of this post was originally published on Four Seasons Magazine as part of the 22-day blogging journey for the inaugural Around The World By Private Jet experience. Swimming with sharks and snorkeling can work up quite the appetite. Thankfully, our boat captain and fish-finder extraordinare, Steve, knew exactly where to take us for…
I had always heard Bali was known for their handicrafts and just one day of exploring their countryside confirms their artistic reputation. My guide, Dewa from Asian Trails, picked me up at 9:00 and handed me a map to all the small villages we’d be visiting. Our first stop was at the Popiler Batik Factory…
[This post done in collaboration with RaceTrac] It’s almost summertime, which in the south means it is Sodapalooza season! Our homebase is in Florida, the sunshine state, so we know a thing or two about surviving the summer season. There are three things that are my must-haves to cool down in the summer heat: a hat, a hand fan,…
Whenever I travel, I’m always on the lookout for new recipes to try at home, as travel is such a great resource for food inspiration. During my latest cruise on Carnival Vista, there was a salad on the Lido Deck that really tickled my tastebuds and made me smile. Yes, I discovered recipe inspiration at…
During our latest cruise on Carnival Vista, I was excited to visit a new-to-me destination: Aruba! Just off the coast of Venezuela, Aruba is a Dutch island with rocky, desert-like landscapes along the northern side, and sandy beaches and coconut palms along the southern coast. With such a variety of picturesque landscapes, we booked the…
I’ve been a little obsessed with blueberries lately, visiting local u-pick farms in Orlando and filling our fridge by the bucketful. So, when my friend Kita with Girl Carnivore invited me to participate in a recipe challenge for National Burger Month, I had to figure out a way to do something savory with my favorite fruit….
I spent a deliciously relaxing weekend in Albuquerque during my first trip to New Mexico, and I gotta say – it’s breathtaking. We stayed at Los Poblanos, a historic inn and organic lavender farm that feels like it’s peacefully miles from anywhere even though it was only a 20 minute drive from the airport. We visited during the springtime, before plants…
I’ve been on a bit of a kick of making homemade marshmallows lately, and this week it is mocha marshmallows. Can you think of a more perfect combination than caffeinated, chocolatey, fluffy sugar pillows? I’m surprised I hadn’t thought of making mocha marshmallows before as they seem to be the perfect quick energy bite needed…
I’m always on the hunt for an easy-to-follow diet to balance out my meals at home in-between indulgent food trips, and I think I’ve found it with the low-GI foods in The Nordic Way. It doesn’t really feel like a diet, but more of an easy-to-maintain lifestyle. For instance, there’s chocolate and other desserts —…
This summer farro salad with crisp cucumbers and tangy blueberries seasoned with lemon and thyme is my new lunchtime favorite. In fact, I crave it! It’s inspired by a new cookbook I’ve been reading, The Nordic Way. Farro Salad – The Perfect Carb-To-Protein Ratio The premise of The Nordic Way is to deliciously combine the…
During our latest cruise on Carnival Vista, we had so many fun excursion options visiting four ports of call — Grand Turk, La Romana, Bonaire, and Aruba — it was tough to pick what to do in each destination! Since we’d be getting plenty of beach time in several ports, we decided to focus on…
Have you ever heard of the Nordic Way of eating? I’m currently reviewing a cookbook about it and was inspired to try making homemade granola for the first time this past weekend. I can’t believe it has taken me this long to give something so simple a try! I’ve been on a “low carb/low sugar” kick for…
What do you do when your travel plans unexpectedly change and you have 48 hours in Winnipeg? Eat amazing food, then zen out with spa time and yoga, that’s what! As you probably well know, travel doesn’t always go as planned. So, when bad weather and flight cancellations happen, making the best of the situation turns into…
Have you ever tried homemade marshmallows? Fair warning, once you have, you’ll never want store bought ones again. There’s a little more fluff, a lot more flavor, and they are really fun to make. The first time I whipped up a batch, I swear I ran through the house with a marshmallow fluff covered spatula…
There’s a lot to get excited about when it comes to dining experiences on Carnival’s newest ship, Carnival Vista. All of my favorite restaurants that I experienced on Carnival Sunshine are there and are even more well integrated into the new ship’s design — like a sort of deliciously enticing restaurant row. There’s sushi at Bonsai…
This is not my normal travel and food kind of post, but as a foodie navigating nearly two weeks of eating soft foods after my gum graft, I thought I’d share my experience and offer a few tips on what to eat after oral surgery. If you’re here for soft food suggestions, scroll to the…
After spending the morning in awe of one of the world’s most iconic buildings, The Sydney Opera House, it was time to grab a bite and explore Sydney’s art neighborhoods. I caught a cab and headed further into town to an area called Alexandria where I found an innovative farm-to-table restaurant that takes their coffee as…
Previously, I posted about our research to find the best mirrorless camera for travel, and ultimately ended up purchasing the Olympus OM-D E-M10. I chose the Olympus OM-D mirrorless camera because of the variety of options for interchangeable lenses, and unique scene modes for travel photography. Now that I’ve had a chance to use it for a…
Kindle or iPad — which is the best tablet for travel? I find myself asking this question every time I pack. And to be honest, I feel a little indulgent and guilty sometimes for having two tablet e-readers, but they’re both great for different reasons. My decision over the best tablet to bring is usually…
People often ask me, “out of everywhere you’ve been, which country is your favorite?” This is always tough to answer, as I love a lot of places for different reasons. But one destination that is consistently in my top five is Croatia. It has such a great mix of interesting history and architecture, jaw-dropping coastlines, and…
Earlier this month, I shared a recipe for a honey lavender sugar scrub and mentioned my love for lavender. My husband, Pete, however, doesn’t share this love. Ha! While I think lavender is refreshing and floral, he thinks lavender tastes like soap. Okay. That’s fair. I can’t blame him. So, when I tried one of…
Why do I need a visa if I have a passport? What is the difference between the two? Does a visa requirement mean I can’t travel? I’ve been receiving these questions frequently via email and private message based on the recent news of E.U. lawmakers ending visa-free travel for U.S. travelers. I know this sounds scary, but it…
This post is sponsored by Chase Ultimate Rewards®. The content and opinions expressed below are that of The Travel Bite. With the recent news of a friend’s engagement, I have an unexpected trip to plan! I’m excited to have a reason to head out west to Utah this summer to celebrate with her, so to…
I’ve never thought to make a sugar scrub with honey, but now that I have, I confess that I totally wanted to eat this honey lavender sugar scrub! Inspired by my visit to Los Poblanos, a lavender farm and boutique hotel in New Mexico, this scrub looks and smells totally edible. It’s like washing your hands with sweet crumble…
I’ve been experimenting a lot lately with turmeric as a spice, even making a sort of turmeric latte with coconut milk and honey. Turmeric has a rich tangerine color, which is why they sometimes call turmeric drinks “golden milk” and it’s also used as a natural way to color things like yellow mustard. So, when I…
A version of this post was originally published on Four Seasons Magazine as part of the 22-day blogging journey for the inaugural Four Seasons Around The World By Private Jet experience. When you’re in Bora Bora, snorkelling in the clear blue waters should be a requirement. I signed up for an excursion that included a…
One of the things I loved about the food in Jordan was the mezze, which are small appetizers similar to Spanish tapas. At the beginning of most dinners, there would be a whole tableful of these shareable plates — delicious things like hummus, labneh (a type of yogurt) with pita, and falafel. And sprinkled among the…
I always say a wine tastes even better when you know its story, so imagine how it feels to wake up where it’s produced. Feel the warmth of the same fruit-ripening sun on your face, breathe in the earthy scent of fresh tilled rows of vines, sip a perfect pinot noir along the same hillside that…
A version of this post was originally published on Four Seasons Magazine as part of the 22-day blogging journey for the inaugural Around The World By Private Jet experience. During the #FSJet Twitter chat, one of the must-see excursions most recommended in Los Angeles was the Paramount Studios Tour. Nothing could have felt more like…
Yes, I know I’ve been all about the sugar scrubs lately. Our travel schedule really kicks off next month, so we’ve been spending our springtime here at home in Florida (yes, February is springtime for us — it’s 78 degrees outside) working on our outdoor patio area. After painting, staining, and gardening, I love cleaning up with…
I love whipping up a homemade sugar scrub with ingredients readily found in my kitchen. For one — I know what all the ingredients are and they’re usually edible. Plus, sugar scrubs are so easy to make and they’re perfect for keeping by the kitchen sink to pamper your hands. I’ve used rose water in a few recipes,…
Named one of the top U.S. travel destinations by Lonely Planet and second only to California in agricultural diversity, Michigan has been on my personal list of states to visit. While I’ve got nearly fifty stamps in my passport, I still have about 25 more states to go to hit that same milestone in my own…
If you love Asian cuisine, then you definitely need to visit Richmond, British Columbia. Located just outside the city of Vancouver and only a 25 minute drive north of the US border, Richmond is where the far east deliciously meets the west coast. They have the largest concentration of Asian restaurants in North America and a…
Tapas, anyone? During this episode, Rachelle chats with Emilio and Lael of GoAhead Tours about the food, wine, and flavors of Barcelona, San Sebastion, and the Rioja region of Spain. Taste Of Spain Podcast Transcript Rachelle Lucas: Welcome back to the Travel Bite. I’m here with my friend Emilio in Madrid and we just finished…
As part of Universal Orlando’s Blog Squad, Pete and I enjoyed a weekend staycation in our hometown of Orlando that truly felt like a getaway. Staying on-site at Universal Orlando Resort played a big part in helping us get into that carefree relaxed state that’s sometimes difficult to achieve when you’re so close to the responsibilities of home….
During this episode, Rachelle chats with Robert Simonson, cocktail and drinks writer for the New York Times, six-time Tales of the Cocktails Spirited Award nominee, and the author of The Old-Fashioned. As one of the leading authorities on spirits and cocktail culture in the United States, he also writes for Wine Spectator, Wine Enthusiast, Imbibe,…
We posted a round-up of our delicious tour of Spain, but there were SO MANY PHOTOS I wanted to share, I decided to make a gallery so the story and information wouldn’t get lost in the scroll. These pictures of Spain cover our trip from Barcelona, to San Sebastian, to Pamplona, through the winelands of Rioja and Ribera del…
During this episode, Rachelle chats with April Wachtel, Founder of Swig + Swallow — a cocktail party that comes in a box. She’s a twenty year veteran in the beverage and hospitality industry, and has worked in every role from busser to bartender to beverage consultant. She’s developed recipes for Lincoln Center Kitchen and MetLife…
Pete and I recently went on a culinary trip to Spain while working with Go Ahead Tours. It was Pete’s first visit to Spain, and my second as I’ve visited the Costa Brava region on a previous food-focused trip. Our itinerary went from Barcelona to San Sebastian, and back down to Madrid, so I was really…
During this episode, Rachelle chats with Brian Christenson about his family’s bootlegging past, the craft spirits trend, and what goes into making the perfect cocktail. Brian is co-woner of Blinking Owl Distillery, the very first craft distillery in Orange County, California. Brian’s great grandfather was a bootlegger in Nebraska, so the love of hand-crafted spirits…
During this episode, Rachelle chats with Anthony Caporale, the director of beverage studies at the Institute of Culinary Education about classic cocktails and how he brings them from the classroom to the state. Anthony is also the Producer and Host of Art of the Drink TV, the leading cocktail web show with millions of viewers worldwide…
Rum punch and large batch cocktails are a new trend, and Patick Williams with Punch Bowl Social gives us the scoop on this cocktail revival during this episode. Learn about the five ingredients that make a classic punch, the history of punch, and a few great recipes to try at home too. Look for the…
I had so much fun during my Colorado trip last summer and it looks like an exciting place to be during the winter too! With a delicious Whiskey Warm Up festival, and a city whose name makes it the perfect place to celebrate Valentine’s Day — I definitely need to go for a return visit. Whether you’re…
Ever wonder about cocktail history and the story and behind your favorite cocktails? Want to know how egg nog got it’s name? Or which historic figure was known for rolling a barrel of cider? From mulled wine, to hot toddys, this episode is full of holiday spirit. Rachelle chats with Tim Hewes, a bartender at the…
Traveling to write about food, I usually have my fingers on the beat of the latest trend, and turmeric is definitely trending. I find it added to juices, teas, and even touted on menu ingredient lists. I’ve been reading about the potential health benefits of turmeric, primarily reducing inflamation. As a runner, this is important…
You Need A Budget (YNAB) is an online platform that specializes in setting goals, breaking it down, and sticking to it with a simple 4-step method. During this episode, Rachelle chats with Todd Curtis about YNAB and how to get organized and save for the holidays and the new year.. Travel Budgeting Podcast with YNAB …
If you’re a big fan of Game of Thrones, then like us, you’ve probably admired the beautiful landscapes in the background of those dramatic scenes and wondered, “Where is Game Of Thrones filmed? I’ve got to see it!” Game of Thrones has filmed on location in places around the world known for having epic coastlines and ancient…
During this episode, Rachelle chats with Karen Riordan, CEO of the Greater Williamsburg Chamber & Tourism Alliance, about the culinary scene and tasting trail in Williamsburg, Virginia, and the surrounding area. This is where America’s first beer was brewed and the first documented Thanksgiving took place. America’s First Beer & First Thanksgiving The Travel Bite Podcast…
I don’t know about you, but we tend to favor sweets around the holidays and winter months. There’s just something about cake or cookies that make a hot beverage like tea so much more cozy and inviting. So, I was craving vegetables and something that felt healthy to balance out our holiday indulgences. And this Winter Kale…
Ever considered staying on a farm? How about a farm stay in Vermont, New Hampshire, or Michigan when the leaves are changing and there are pumpkins in the field? Or a farm just about anywhere that grows apples hauling out the cider press for some of what you might call ‘liquid gold’? Cows and goats…
Looking for a special gift for your favorite frequent flier? We have a great list of gift ideas for travelers, a compilation all of our favorite things outlined below and organized into four easy categories to help you decide. From gift ideas for the Food Traveler, the Tech Savvy Traveler, the Stylish Traveler, and the Health Conscious…
This recipe for Welsh Gingerbread is an old one. I picked it up during my culinary tour of Wales, and as you can see from the picture, it comes from an old book (you know, the kind your grandmother has stashed on the shelf) There’s no reference to what year this book was made, but there…
With the Clubhouse opening its doors in 1886 to the world’s wealthiest families of the time, Jekyll Island Club Hotel has seen its dose of historical moments such as the first transcontinental telephone call and the founding of the Federal Reserve. Whispers of ghostly apparitions of the deceased millionaires and past workers throughout the island,…
It’s the most wonderful time of year, and it’s also the busiest! Whether you’re planning to visit family, or headed out for a holiday getaway, you’re bound to run into bigger crowds at airports and along the highway. Take the stress out of holiday travel with these five tips. 5 Holiday Travel Tips To Help…
Planning a trip to Hong Kong? It’s such a vibrant city and there’s so much to see and do, and plenty to taste as well! I’ve been to Hong Kong a couple of times, once to celebrate Chinese New Year and another time working on a campaign for Cathay Pacific’s Premium Economy offering. Based on…
Rachelle chats with Meagan Coates, a trip designer from Trek Travel about what goes into putting together cycling vacations. Meagan shares some great tips about all the technical and physical aspects of planning a cycling tour, from beginner cyclists that simply enjoy food and the great outdoors, to serious athletes that want to ride across…
This post is sponsored by Chase Ultimate Rewards. The content and opinions expressed below are that of The Travel Bite. Fall is my absolute favorite season! The weather cools, the air seems filled with deliciously scented things, and the whole landscape turns into beautiful golden shades of copper with the fall leaves changing — plus…
Estes Park, Colorado, the base for Rocky Mountain National Park, has so many fun fall activities for travelers. During this episode, Rachelle chats with Brooke Burnham with Visit Estes Park about all the hiking, craft brewery events, and the reason why they call October “Elktober.” She’ll also share some spooky stories about the luxurious Stanley…
Have you ever tasted Pennsylvania wines? Now is a great time to try them as October is Pennsylvania Wine Month! Anywhere you visit throughout the state, you’re only an hour away from wine country and Philadelphia alone has over 35 wineries just a short 45 minute drive outside of the city! To help us learn…
Throughout my travels through Louisiana, I indulged in quite a bit of shrimp and grits — a comfort food that’s a signature dish for the coastal south. If you’re unfamiliar with grits, they’re kind of like the American version of polenta consisting of ground up cornmeal and cooked in hot water until it’s soft and cereal-like….
If there was ever a luxe way to get scared the dickens out of for Halloween, it would be Halloween Horror Nights at Universal Studios Orlando. I’m not usually one for thrillers and gore, but I do love a good ghost story and have been on a few spooky walking tours in historic cities. But one…
Ever wonder what day of the week is the best for booking travel? How about travel dates to avoid? During this episode, Rachelle chats with Randi Wolfson with Skyscanner.com about how to get the best deals for flights and hotels, tips for navigating airports, and how to prepare for hectic holiday travel Holiday Flight Tips…
As much as I love the autumn season, back home in Florida we still have the air conditioning cranked and we’re just pretending it is fall by decorating everything in orange. Forget pumpkin spice lattes, we’re still sipping iced coffee and fighting off hurricanes and tropical storms. And while I love the idea of pumpkin spice, all…
As one of the top 10 fall foliage destinations in the USA, Door County does fall like no one else with haunted lighthouses, winding roads through forests of autumn-colored leaves, apple harvests, and a festival nearly every weekend. During this episode, Rachelle chats with Jon Jarosh with Door County Visitors Bureau about the best times…
Today’s guest is Kim Olson, a writer and photographer who shares stories about travel, creativity and everyday life at lifeofexploring.com and on Instagram @lifeofexploring. During this episode, she shares with us some safety tips that are great to remember when exploring the National Parks or any outdoor adventure. National Parks Series: Outdoor Safety Tips …
Autumn is a great time of year to visit Thailand as the tropical weather is a bit more mild and there’s a sense of magic in the air with two local festivals: Loy Krathong and Yi Peng. Loy Krathong (also known as loi kratong) is a floating lantern festival in gratitude to water spirits, while the coinciding Yi Peng…
During this episode, Rachelle chats with Falyn Owens with Garfield County Tourism about what it was like growing up in Panguitch just outside Bryce Canyon National Park as well as the history of Bryce Canyon, how it got it’s name, and more about the largest collection of hoodoos in the world. National Parks Series: Bryce…
This post is in partnership with The Ritz-Carlton. As much as I love to travel to new and far-away places, I also enjoy a relaxing Florida staycation retreat in my home state and feel grateful to live in one of the vacation capitols of the world. From elegant engagement dinners, to anniversaries sipping champagne by a…
During this episode, Rachelle chats with Jason Frye, author of several guidebooks including Moon Blue Ridge Parkway Road Trip and Moon Blue Ridge and Smoky Mountains. In addition, he’s also contributed to Southern Living, AAA Go!, Thrillist, and Forbes. Jason is currently working on another guidebook about Great Smoky Mountains National Park and during this…
Creating your own travel makeup kit is an essential part of travel planning as every single ounce of weight and space counts when it comes down to packing, especially for your carry-on. I prefer to bring my makeup kit on the plane with me so that I can do touch-ups and feel refreshed once I land in a…
Have you taken a vacation this year? Would you like to travel more, but just can’t seem to find the time? You’re not alone. Lots of workers, Americans especially, leave vacation time unused even though plenty of research has shown the health benefits of getting away from job-related stress. Since I travel quite a bit for…
Today’s guest is Leigh Barnes with Intrepid Travel, the world’s largest provider of adventure travel experiences. Originally from Australia, Leigh has a passion for travel, real world experiences, and exploring the outdoors. He’s here today to talk to us about one of the more unique National Parks, and one of the least visited, the Dry…
This post is sponsored by Chase Ultimate Rewards. The content and opinions expressed below are that of The Travel Bite. What was your favorite summer travel experience? For me, it was finally visiting Willamette Valley in Oregon! It’s been on my bucket list for a while since Oregon wine is one my favorites, especially their pinot…
During this episode, Rachelle chats with Michael Buchheit with the Grand Canyon Association (GCA), a non-profit partner of Grand Canyon National Park. Michael works with the Grand Canyon Association Field Institute which helps educate visitors about planning a trip to Grand Canyon. In his spare time, he’s a professional landscape photographer and frequent backpacker and…
During our cruise to Alaska onboard the Carnival Legend, we were so exited to go on several glacier excursions, especially since one of the benefits of cruising Alaska is that you get to go places that are impossible to see by car. After cruising through the Tracy Arm Fjord to gaze at glaciers right from…
Have you been hearing a lot about mirrorless cameras lately? If not, you’re in for a treat. They’re very similar to a DSLR, with an interchangeable lens and great image quality, only they’re a lot more light weight without the mirror and optical viewfinder. After lugging around my three pound DSLR on a trip earlier this year,…
Brian Eagen is a California-based outdoor educator who has travelled to 33 National Parks and can list all 59 off the top of his head. He splits his time between taking youth on backpacking and rock climbing trips and developing OutdoorBlueprint.com – a visual database of information and tools for the aspiring outdoor adventurer. During…
My husband, Pete, and I just returned from our Carnival Cruise to Alaska and I feel like I can still smell the scent of pine mixed with salty sea air. It was a cool and refreshing break for an otherwise hot summer, and the memories we made on the cruise are ones we’ll be talking…
If you’re a foodie, Richmond BC needs to be on your list of places to visit. Only 20 minutes from Vancouver is a small town with a big appetite, home to over 800 restaurants and one of the highest concentrations of Asian cuisine in North America. During this episode, Rachelle chats with her friends Lesley…
This BBQ crock pot pulled pork recipe is one of Pete’s favorites, and it has saved us from slaying over a hot grill many time in the crazy heat this summer. It’s really easy to make, with very little prep, and has only 5 ingredients. I also love it because it’s quick to throw together…
Rachelle chats with Matty Boudreau, member of the Salty Rinse BBQ Team and Executive Chef at Baron’s Cove Restaurant in Sag Harbor, NY. Matty and his team have competed in countless BBQ competitions including Memphis in May where they placed 2nd in Whole Hog and 1st in Poultry. During this episode, Matty shares his favorite…
My friend Nelson recently sent me a copy of his Portuguese Travel Cookbook, and having skimmed through the stories and photos I couldn’t wait to try out this Portuguese sausage recipe! Although, the book is much more than just recipes; it’s wonderful collection of stories about life and food in Portugal. From what makes Vinho Verde…
During this episode, Rachelle chats with Clint Cantwell, Editor of Grillocracy.com about his tips for summer grilling. In addition to Grillocracy, Clint is also the video content director of AmazingRibs.com, pitmaster of Smoke in da Eye competition barbecue and grilling team, and winner of Travel Channel’s “American Grilled.” Clint was named one of the “10…
When cruising along the shores and through the fjords of Alaska, you can’t miss the opportunity to experience the great outdoors and get up close and personal with nature. Throughout our Carnival cruise, I mentioned to my husband, Pete, more than once that it felt like we woke up in a painting, surrounded by fresh…
Ever wonder, “Where is Wales?” You’ve heard of it. But when you look at a map and see the big island of Ireland right next to Great Britain with Scotland to the north and England to the south, you still might wonder, “where exactly is Wales?” I confess, during my visit there, I arrived at Manchester Airport (in…
Lexington, North Carolina, is known for their legendary BBQ. During this episode, Rachelle chats with Rick Monk, owner of Lexington BBQ, the most famous barbecue restaurant in Lexington, North Carolina. His family opened the restaurant in 1962, and since then they’ve been named by USA Today as one of the 10 Best Southern BBQ spots,…
I recently traveled to New Orleans for the first time this spring. Since this is such a culinary-focused city, some of my close friends had joked that they’d revoke my proverbial “foodie card” if I didn’t get there soon! Now having been, I agree that it’s unbelievable that I didn’t visit sooner and now I can’t wait…
During this episode, Rachelle chats with Rob and Kelly with Hotel Monaco Pittsburgh about the Pittsburgh rust belt revolution. Rob is a Pittsburgh native and Kelly is a big time foodie. They share with us why Pittsburgh is a great city to visit, from being named one of the best food cities in America by…
During this episode, Rachelle talks with Rose McAvoy, the creator of HalfHerSize.com, about her 11 tips for loosing weight while traveling. HalfHerSize.com is a website for busy women who want to lose weight without losing their mind. During Rose’s 3 1/2 year, 146 pound weight loss journey she discovered a passion for solving the puzzles…
Located right in the heart of Louisiana, and often referred to as Cenla for “Central Louisiana,” is the charming historic town of Alexandria. I must confess, I had not heard of Alexandria before Louisiana Tourism invited me to explore their culinary trails, but I’m so thankful for the introduction as it’s a great destination for two…
Lee Abbamonte is the youngest American to visit every country in the world, traveling to 318 countries and even stepping foot on both the North and South Poles. In addition to being a global adventurer, he’s also an entrepreneur and sought after travel expert that’s frequently featured in publications like Conde Nast Traveler, Washington Post,…
Recently, I was challenged by Intel Security to unplug from digital for my next trip, which is a bit of a stretch for me since I’m always sharing my travels on social media. So, Pete and I put together a digital detox plan and looked for a place that was close enough to home for a…
I’ve been wanting to visit Boulder, Colorado for quite sometime. The food scene, the hiking trails, and it’s bike-frienly atmosphere have all been calling me, but I hadn’t realized how much fun there is to be had outside of Boulder too, until my recent whirlwind girl’s trip exploring Colorado’s front range. Sponsored by Colorado’s Front…
During this episode, Rachelle chats with Alexander Souri, Founder of Relief Riders International — a humanitarian-based, adventure travel company that organizes horseback journeys through remote areas while providing humanitarian aid to local people. In 2010, Relief Riders was named the recipient of the United Nations NGO Positive Peace Award in the small business category. He’s…
Summertime is sockeye salmon season, and this Maple Glazed Salmon recipe is one of my favorite dinners to make at home, especially as we look forward to our Carnival Cruise in Alaska this summer! There’s only 5 ingredients and the clean-up is easy, so it’s a simple and delicious recipe that’s perfect for a busy…
During this episode, Rachelle chats with two experts about how to get the most out of your outdoor adventures this summer, including a great camping checklist for what to pack. Mark Keop, Founder of CampgroundViews.com shares his 7 packing essentials for camping including a hot new camera that truly captures the essense of the outdoors….
With the stress of being constantly connected, whether we’re working, reading the news, or catching up with friends, more and more people are looking for a digital detox and scheduling a vacation has become vital to our well being. Only, vacations can’t give us the kind of rest and relaxation we need if we stay…
I’m a big fan of travel quotes and share some of my favorites quite frequently on social media. But I see the same ones posted so often, that they lack the spark and inspiration they once had. So, I searched for a collection of new travel quotes about stories, adventures, and the calling of the…
During this episode, Rachelle chats with celebrity stylist and Hollywood film costume designer, Leesa Evans. Leesa has a gift for dressing her clients in ways that truly represent the essence of each individual, instilling a sense of confidence. Her costume design credits include over 25 films including Bridesmaids, Zoolander 2, and Trainwreck. Whether she is…
Driving into Covington, you can’t help but sigh and think this is the kind of small town you want to move to — inviting shops, art galleries, walkable streets shaded by sprawling oaks, and every block covered in a smile-inducing charm. Located along the northern shore of Lake Pontchartrain, it’s just a 45 minute drive from…
One of my favorite weeknight meals is a Thai ginger lime ground pork recipe called Nam Sod. Not only is it easy to make, but it’s light, healthy, and has that big multi-layered “pow” of flavor that Thai food is known for. While visiting Thailand, I loved how fresh the food looked and tasted and it…
During this episode, Rachelle chats with Margaux Lushing, Founder of Well + Away, the first healthy-hip wellness travel guidebook series. Their website is full of healthy travel hacks, weekender guides, and interviews with cool, healthy locals. Before launching Well + Away, Margaux wrote for Refinery 29, Well + Good, Brit + Co and has been…
Sometimes, reading just the right phrasing of words or some funny food quotes is all you need to brighten your day. I love a well crafted phrase, and I typically schedule fun quotes across Twitter all the time, mostly because I loved sipping my morning coffee and getting a little chuckle out of something that I read….
Airport food tends to be grossly overpriced and not very delicious, so I always make a pack of healthy snacks for us when we travel that’s full of gourmet grab-and-go foods that happen to be TSA-friendly too. It’s well balanced with some fresh fruit, protein, and a little chocolate treat (since chocolate is it’s own food group). I…
During this episode, Rachelle chats with Suzanne Rowan Kelleher about her favorite family packing tips. Susanne is a longtime travel writer and the family vacations expert at About.com. In addition, she has contributed to numerous national outlets, including Travel + Leisure, FoxNews.com, NBCNews/TODAY.com, Good Housekeeping, Parents, The Boston Globe, and many others. In this episode, she…
There’s nothing quite as relaxing as treating yourself to some pampering at a day spa. I recently celebrated a friend’s birthday at The Ritz-Carlton Grande Lakes and made a special spa bag for her as a gift as it occurred to me there are quite a few essentials that I always pack for a spa day….
A refreshing mango chicken salad with all the tropical fixings is perfect for a quick and nutritious lunch throughout the week. The tart lime, coconut, yogurt and honey make this a delicious mix of tangy and sweet with a bit of crunch, and the tropical flavors remind me of sitting on the beach in the Caribbean or…
Planning a summer vacation with the family? You don’t want to miss these great family travel packing tips from Natalie Tanner with The Educational Tourist. From what electronics to pack, what to leave home, and how to build a better first aid kit. You’ve got to listen to see what she says about poo ……
With our combined love for the outdoors and delicious food finds, San Francisco feels like our spirit animal. There’s such an exciting entrepreneurial vibe and always something new to discover, but there are also few classics you just can’t miss. Pete and I have been to San Francisco several times now on business trips and…
Looking for some inspiration for summer road trips? We’ve got several! During this episode, Rachelle chats with two enthusiastic travelers about summer road trip destinations in the United States. The first chat is with Natalie from RoadTrippers.com about five unique summer road trips including: The Breaking Bad Journey, The Extraterrestrial Highway, Party Like It’s 1776,…
I think I’m going to have to invest in a set of those cloud-like magical hotel pillows that seem to cocoon me in comfort whenever I’m traveling. Because, now that I am at home, I’m not getting as much sleep as I would like. An endless to-do list and longer daylight hours have had me…
Learn about Yountville, a small town in Napa Valley named for the first pioneer to plant vineyards there and now named one of the top food towns to visit by numerous magazines. From picturesque landscapes of rolling green vineyards, to the top restaurants in the world, and plenty of outdoor activies including hiking and cycling,…
Toward the end of last year, Pete and I both signed up for Global Entry. As frequently as we travel, I can’t believe we didn’t do this sooner! Having used it for our last three trips, I can tell you, it’s worth every penny. It’s like buying a first class ticket through the security line, it…
Today’s guest is Mar y Soul, a celebrity make-up artist and manicurist that’s work has been seen in over 300 fashion editorial covers including Harper’s Bazaar, Vogue, and Elle. She jetsets around the world from Paris, to New York, Miami, and LA perfecting manicures for celebritys like Lady Gaga and Jessica Biel. I’m excited to…
This post is in partnership with Chase Sapphire Preferred. Did you know that Chase Sapphire Preferred is the number one rewards card for dining and travel? Indeed, it lives up to its reputation as a card that’s perfect for people who love food and travel, and I got to experience those rewards first hand last…
I hadn’t been on a Carnival Cruise in over 10 years, so when I hopped on board the Carnival Sunshine for a girlfriends getaway retreat, I was surprised by all the new amenities available on Carnival’s new ships. It seemed with every corner we turned, and every nook and cranny explored, there were fun surprises…
When it comes to the Cayman Islands, you might think of stunning beaches, great diving, and fresh seafood. But there’s actually quite a bit of farming too that puts them ahead of the curve in terms of the farm-to-table dining movement in the Caribbean. During this episode, Rachelle chats with Chef Thomas Tennant of The…
Love southern food? This episode will make you drool. Rachelle chats with Chris Jay of the All Y’all Blog about southern foods in Louisiana. From shrimp busters and craft beers, to peach ice box pies, drive-thru daiquiries with funny names, crawfish boils, and even a donut shop that Elvis once sang about. If you’re ever…
When it comes to Albuquerque hotels, I must admit, Los Poblanos Historic Inn has spoiled me. This dreamy property seems like it would be more fitting to the countryside of France or a scene from a Jane Austin novel and it’s not at all what I expected for a city in the middle of a dessert…
During this episode, Rachelle chats with Tonya Leigh, the founder of French Kiss Life, a destination for women who want to inject more elegance, style and joie de vivre into their daily lives. Through a vibrant online community and immersive travel experiences, Tonya helps women embrace life like a Parisian by slowing down to enjoy…
This post is done in partnership with RueBaeRue I confess. Each time I hear news about a new travel app, I can’t help but roll my eyes. There seems to be at least a half dozen ‘new and exciting’ travel apps each week that end up doing not much more than taking up precious data…
During this episode, Rachelle chats with Danielle Chang, founder of LUCKYRICE festivals, host of Lucky Chow on PBS and author of Lucky Rice: Stories and Recipes from Night Markets, Feasts, and Family Tables. Danielle has traveled the world exploring Asian cuisine and has a quite a few fun stories about street foods, delicious recipes to…
I’ve written down this lemon pasta recipe on a napkin so many times for friends that I thought I should actually shoot it and add it to the blog. It’s a zesty five ingredient lemon pasta recipe that’s one of my favorites to throw together when I’m short on time. Not only is it quick…
During my last trip to London doing research about British gin, I spent an evening exploring a new-to-me neighborhood — Soho London. Located in the heart of London’s West End, the streets here are full of theatres, pubs, and an incredible variety of international foods. Unlike New York’s SoHo, which is named for its location (So)uth of…
During this episode, Rachelle chats with Bryan Roof, star of the popular PBS show and Executive Food Editor for series of magazines, “Cook’s Country” an America’s Test Kitchen brand. As an ensemble star and Editor, Bryan travels all around the U.S. to find and taste truly local American dishes. He then brings his knowledge back…
When our work schedules get busy and the weather is just a tad chilly outside, I have a go-to quick and easy turkey chili recipe I make all the time. It’s easy to make in one big pot without creating a big mess of dishes. Add a few blue corn chips and sour cream on…
Learning to dance tango in the middle of a bakery in Albuquerque is something I never thought I’d do, and it’s just the tip of the ice berg of interesting stories shared at the Golden Crown Panaderia. During this episode, Rachelle chats with Chris Morales about what it was like growing up in a bakery,…
I thought I traveled a lot, jet-setting to some new delicious destination once a month. But most business travelers have me beat as they’re on-the-go three or four weeks a month. I recently had the opportunity to interview Lauren Doucette, a member of National Car Rental’s Emerald Club, with a quite a few tips and travel…
This post is in partnership with Visit Florida. One of the things I love about living in Florida is all the fresh seafood available year round and nothing quite beats a Florida fish taco. While the fish taco may have been invented in Baja, Florida perfected it with a variety of seafood and flavorful toppings. You can…
Whether you travel frequently for business, or are planning for your vacation, all of us could use a few good packing tips from a professional organizer. During this episode, Rachelle chats with Suzanna Kaye with Spark Organizing about her tips for being better organized and stress free when you travel. Learn about the top travel…
One of the new features I was excited to discover during my Carnival Cruise was a coffee shop! Because of my love for coffee, I discovered it immediately when we boarded. And while most passengers went straight for the fun tropical cocktails on deck to celebrate as we floated away from Cape Canaveral, I was…
This post is in partnership with the Cherry Marketing Institute. You may remember back in November that I had a few tips for you to deal with daylight saving time since it feels a bit like jet lag, but now what do we do that it’s reversed? Evenings don’t seem so bad until you look…
Get to know where the locals go on the mainland in Miami. I’ll give you a hint, it’s not South Beach. From the trendy Wynwood Art District, to Coconut Grove, and Little Havana, learn some insider tips from Chef Concierge Fernando Pochulu and award-winning Executive Chef Aaron Brooks from the Four Seasons Hotel Miami. Get…
Tres Leches cake is the perfect dessert for those of us that love to dunk their cookie or donut into a glass of milk or cup of coffee. The name of the cake, “tres leches,” means “three milks” in Spanish and is named for the milky sauce that soaks this heavy sponge cake. I think…
The latest trend in superfoods is a global mix of aromatic spices, hearty legumes, and a few fruits too. Listen in as Rachelle chats with Colman Andrews, Editorial Director at The Daily Meal about 9 trending superfoods and where they’re from. The Travel Bite Podcast is a weekly audio program for foodies who love to…
Binge watching a marathon weekend of Downton Abbey? I’ve got your snacks covered. One of my favorite shows of all time is in it’s final season, and there’s no better way to celebrate than to throw your own Downton Abbey Party. Whether you want to host a tea party worthy of Lady Mary, or just create…
Imagine taking a road trip from the southern most point in Key West to the northern most point accessible by roads in Alaska. That’s exactly what Kenin and his wife did. During this episode, Rachelle chats with Kenin with TheConstantRambler.com about practical tips for long-term affordable travel and what it’s like to take a road…
This recipe for ham salad sandwiches is perfect for a picnic in the park or afternoon tea and they’re quite easy to make. There’s only three simple ingredients including mayonnaise, sweet pickled relish, and ham slices (similar to canadian bacon). If you have any ham left over from dinner or a big holiday meal, these ham…
I’m often asked for tips on how I discover local markets or find the best restaurant recommendations when we travel. It’s actually quite fun to hunt for these hidden gems in new cities and I have seven tips for you to get the most delicious experience during your next trip. They’re what I do to find…
While spending a day in Old San Juan during our last Carnival Cruise, we visited the famous Barrachina Restaurant. Not only is it the birthplace of the pina colada, but they also make a host of other Puerto Rican treats including tostones, sweet plantains, croquets, and coconut flan. Dreaming of that creamy coconut flan, I…