There are so many fun ways to celebrate the holidays and Christmas at Universal Orlando Resort. Get into the spirit of the season with a hot Butterbeer, the awe-inspiring Macy’s Parade, Grinchmas, and the light show at Hogwarts! Take a look at all of our favorite reasons to celebrate the season at Universal below. “Our…
Traveling to Spain and wondering what to eat? The list of delicious Spanish food can be endless as Spain is one of the top destinations in the world for culinary travel. The Costa Brava region is birthplace of modernist cuisine and the home to El Bulli and Cellar De Can Roca. Of course, there’s also…
Leeds instead of London? You bet. I know, you’re thinking, “where is Leeds?” And that is exactly the kind of question you want to be asking in this age of overtourism. For a truly unique experience, you’ve got to get away from the big cities and crowds! Don’t get me wrong, London is great, especially…
Hong Kong is a crossroads for many different cultures, which makes it a melting pot of choices when it comes to different types of cuisine. And with over 12,000 restaurants, the variety of dining options available can be somewhat overwhelming. If you’re visiting for vacation or a business trip, here’s a list of three great neighborhoods…
Pete and I visited Kitzbuhel, Austria, last fall for the Social Travel Summit conference and afterwards spent some time in the mountains for an Austrian Alps farm house stay. The surrounding Alps were the perfect setting for a such a meeting of minds — a physical manifestation of getting a birds eye view on life…
Wales might be shadowed by the more frequently visited England and Scotland, but for travelers with an appreciation for food, culture, and epic landscapes, Wales is a must-visit. It’s the land of dragons and castles, rolling green hills dotted with sheep, and a fun celtic language of double L’s and tongue-twisting W’s as vowels. The people of…
Chichen Itza has been on my must-see list for over 10 years now, so I was really excited to have the opportunity to visit this famous Mayan pyramid during a trip to Mexico. I think the reason it’s taken me so long to plan a trip there, despite multiple visits to the region, is that…
During my recent trip to Great Britain, I had the opportunity to fly up to Northern Ireland and spend a day visiting Belfast and Giant’s Causeway. Admittedly, this was too short at time and I wish I had a whole week to explore this beautiful country. But my guide, Billy Scott, did a superb job…
Bologna may not be as well known as some of Italy’s other famous cities, but it is definitely the best place in Italy for food and one of my favorite culinary destinations. As the capitol of the Emilia Romagna region, Bologna has earned several nicknames throughout history – La Dotta (‘the learned one’ – for…
I feel like I can still smell the scent of pine mixed with salty sea air from a recent Alaska cruise. 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 about and sharing for years to come. Summer Alaska…
I’ve been spoiled. I didn’t realize how much so until my recent trip to Europe when I flew coach. I should have taken the hint when trying to find my place in line at the gate amid a mass of cranky travelers. Once we boarded and I found my seat, I thought of asking for…
When I heard there was a food theme park that opened in Bologna, I had to plan a visit just to see it. FICO Eataly World has over 100,000 square meters filled with food from every region in Italy — sounds a bit like heaven! I spent a full day at Eataly World and have all…
If there were ever a food tour that sounded like heaven, it would be the new Bologna gelato tour. This tour includes a guided walk under the city’s historic porticoes and takes you to three artisanal gelato shops for an epic afternoon of gelato tasting. You’ll get to taste multiple flavors, learn about the history…
Universal Orlando Resort’s new theme park, Volcano Bay, is the ultimate water theme park! I had the opportunity to visit 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 to…
This post is sponsored by the Grand Ole Opry. Traveling for music has moved up on my priority list, especially since 2016 when it seemed that unlucky year was going to take every last one of our favorite music icons. So now, if there’s a concert or festival I’ve been meaning to see, it’s going…
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!…
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…
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,…
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,…
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…
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…
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,…
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…
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,…
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…
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…
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…
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…
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…
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 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…
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…
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…
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…
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…
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…
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…
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…
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…
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….
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…
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…
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…
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…
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…
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…
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 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…
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…
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…
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…
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…
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…
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…
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 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…
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…
Who knew Seoul had such a thriving food scene? Pete and I stopped in Seoul on our way home from Thailand for a week of culinary indulgences. We were really looking forward to tasting authentic Korean BBQ and other regional delicacies, but were surprised with so much more. From the best fried chicken we’ve ever…
While visiting Asia, Pete and I flew from Bangkok to Seoul, and then Seoul back to the United States on Korean Airlines. And I’ve gotta say, they have some unexpected luxurious touches available in coach. I’ve got photos of both of our flights below highlighting the amenities, entertainment, food, and extras that you’ll experience with…
This is perhaps my favorite, and one of my most memorable, afternoon teas – the Mad Hatter’s Afternoon Tea at Sanderson London. With a playful Alice In Wonderland theme, every last detail on the table is meant to delight and surprise. From the menus tucked inside vintage books, to sugar cubes stored in music boxes, and even…
Going for tea in London is a must-do for first time visitors to the city, but it doesn’t all have to be prim and proper with pinkies up. You can have tea in a trippy Alice-In-Wonderland style complete with magic marshmallow mushrooms and small glass bottles of a sweet elixir labeld, “drink me.” Or you could go for…
When I took my mom to France for the first time, which was also her first Transatlantic flight, I upgraded us to Air France Premium Economy so she’d have a comfortable experience. Plus, it was her birthday so I didn’t mind the splurge. Overall, the slight increase in the fare (around $200) was well worth the…
Before there were the bright colored Ladurée macarons (pronounced “ma-ka-roh”), or the coconut macaroon (pronounced “ma-ka-roon”), there were the original French macarons – thin sweet almond wafers made my nuns in 17th century France. Today, you can still find the original French macarons being made in a quaint medieval village best known for it’s lucious wines produced…
There are a few natural landscapes in this world that are on my bucket list, and Giant’s Causeway in Northern Ireland is one of them. When I had the opportunity to spend 24 hours in Belfast during my last trip to Great Britain, I couldn’t resist taking a short road trip up to the coast to…
A guest post by Kym Hawkins Sunday Funday is a tour designed to show both tourists and natives what’s going on in The Hipster Capital of the World, Williamsburg. AKA “Billysburg.” When you live in a city as big as New York, it’s not hard to feel like a tourist even when you’re from the…
In my experience, people who love food are always the best people, sharing their passion for a particular region or ingredient with the same level of excitement as a child on Christmas morning. And when it comes to milestone celebrations, some foodies say to ‘Go Big Or Go Home.’ For Raglan Road Irish Pub in Orlando,…
You know how much I love South Africa, which is why I’m so excited to share this guest post by Tim with WineTurtle.com about wine vacations in one of my favorite regions. Throughout the post, I’ve also included scenic photos from my trip to Stellenbosch to give you a taste of what you’d see while…
From Europe, to Australia, to Scandinavia, to Asia and Mexico, you can taste your way around the world at the EPCOT International Food & Wine Festival. Here are my are my top tips for getting the most out of your EPCOT International Food & Wine Festival experience. Travel Tips For The EPCOT Food And Wine…
If you’re visiting EPCOT to dine or drink around the world for the EPCOT Food and Wine Festival (or any time of year around their World Showcase), then consider staying walking distance to the park at Disney’s BoardWalk Inn. Loaded with vintage coastal charm and excellent views of the fireworks right from the balcony of…
Spending a week in the Bordeaux region over the summer was a dream trip come true for me — exploring history, driving through vineyards, and (of course) tasting wine. Since then, one of the questions I’m most often asked is, “what recommendations do you have on where to stay in Bordeaux?” I’ve got quite a…
Did you happen to follow along on Twitter during my trip to Wales? I went on a delicious road trip from Anglesey to Cardiff with Sian Roberts of LovingWelshFood.com and Cambria Tours as my guide. We slept in castles, ate glitter and gem filled ice cream, spotted dragons, went on a highland safari, visited a village of ancient…
I’m so excited to be headed back to Switzerland, this time to visit Zurich on a press trip with a great group of bloggers. It got me thinking about my last trip to Switzerland, visiting friends in Geneva and taking a road trip around Lac Leman (Lake Geneva). I remember the scenery being breathtaking, just beckoning…
South African’s know how to make the most amazing grilled cheese sandwich. It seriously puts our buttered grilled cheese in a saute pan to shame. But their name for it in Afrikaans is quite a tongue twister — braai-broodjes (or braaibroodjie). It’s is a toasted cheese sandwich made over an open fire during a South…
Browsing through the dining options on my last cruise, there was something new I didn’t expect to see — Carnival’s Chef’s Table. I’ve had this sort of meal in restaurants and resorts, but I hadn’t experienced this type of interactive dinner on a ship. Turns out, it’s not just dinner, but a multi-sensory experience. We…
I’m packing this week to head out on the most exquisite summer adventure, traveling to the most famous wine region in the world — Bordeaux! I’ll be traveling through the south of France in Aquitaine’s vineyards Bordeaux, Saint-Emilion, Sauternes & Grave, and Bergerac. Never has an itinerary sounded more delicious! I’m excited to work with…
Since I travel so frequently, a true vacation for me is one where I can digitally disconnect and find some peace and quiet. I typically look for yoga retreats, resorts with great spas, or some place that offers a little outdoor escape. To my pleasant surprise, Carnival Cruise Line now offers the kind of soul-rejuvenating experience…
A Foodie’s Road Trip Guide To Nova Scotia Traveling to taste the best scallops in the world is reason enough for any culinary enthusiast to plan a trip to Nova Scotia, but other than exploring the food scene, Pete and I really didn’t know what to expect. Turns out, we were about to be wowed. As one…
Ever wonder what it was like to win a big travel or food contest? How about visiting the filming location of one of your favorite cooking shows? This week, I’ll be giving you a sneak peek behind the scenes of both. All you need to do is search for the hashtag #RaglanRoadTrip on Twitter and Instagram. Ragland…
Greetings from Stellenbosch, South Africa! I’ve just landed in Cape Town and am a little jet lagged, but wanted to give you the scoop on the luscious tweets you’ll be seeing in my stream this week tagged with #Stellenblog. I’m here exploring this quaint wine village just outside of Capetown for a project called Stellenblog to…
If you want to add a little zest or nutty flavor to your recipes, definitely give these Jordanian spices a try. I was first introduced to them while traveling to Joran and visiting the spice markets in Amman. We went on a weeknight among other city-dwelling Jordanians that were picking up provisions on their way…
On my recent Carnival cruise, one of our destinations was San Juan, Puerto Rico. It was my first time ever visiting Puerto Rico and I was pretty excited to spend a whole day exploring this historic city. While there were several fun excursions offered, my friend, Suzie, and I were most interested in trying out…
From bustling city life full of history and exciting events, to rolling green highlands dotted with castles and picturesque country drives perfect for leisurely road trips — there’s plenty to see in Scotland. What’s even better is that it’s easy to navigate and small enough that you can easily fit a lot in to a single vacation. So, if…
It’s not common to see the word “cheap” and “South Beach” used in the same sentence. With countless luxury stays (many of which, I love), it’s not a destination that easily lets it’s secret bargains known. Turns out, searching for places with a kitchenette in Miami revealed all kinds of adorable and stylish boutique hotels…
Do you remember your first cruise or vacation? I certainly remember mine, as it was one of my very first trips outside of the country — and it was on a Carnival cruise that went to the Caribbean and Mexico. I recently stumbled upon an old college album filled with travel photos. The year was 1998,…
What really sets this hotel apart is it’s service. It was so nice to receive such a warm and friendly welcome after a long day of traveling. Plus, the suite has a lot of nice touches like fresh flowers and tea to make it feel more like home. Check out our video review below, and…
I was recently asked what were my favorite things to do in Porto. It’s one of my favorite cities in the world and if you’re a foodie or history buff, there’s definitely a few key places you want to add to your itinerary. From gilded coffee houses, to intriguing vintage bookshops, and countless wine cellars tucked away…
Visiting food markets is one of my favorite things to do when I travel. There’s just something about the sweet scent of fresh fruit, colorful exotic spices piled in high pyramids, and a variety of vendors making an array of enticing street foods. It’s the hustle and buslte of everyday life around the world, of families gathering ingredients to make…
Ever want to take a career break and try doing something new and completely different? I recently stepped outside of my comfort zone of food and classic cultural experiences to roll up my sleeves and be a zookeeper for a day at Wild Florida. WILD FLORIDA ADVENTURE BEGINS On the morning of my outdoor animal adventure,…
To fulfill a bucket list wish and celebrate my birthday at the end of 2014, I floated over my hometown and watched the sunrise from a hot air balloon. It was breathtaking! But it took not one, not two, but three tries to get up in the air! Here’s my story and some helpful tips…
Traveling to Paris is a bucket list dream for many, but when you finally get down to planning your trip and start searching for Paris hotels, the sheer amount of places available within all the different neighborhoods throughout the city can be a bit overwhelming. There’s well over 2,000 hotels in Paris, and with that many choices, how can…
When it comes to things to do in Scotland, I think of history, Scotch, and afternoon tea with shortbread. I also imagine kilts, haggis, and the sound of bagpipes. But, as with every country I visit, I discover there’s so much more than the stereotype. I didn’t expect the genuine friendliness of every cab driver I met…
Driving through the Scottish highlands on winding narrow streets, with each bend in the road revealing another jaw-dropping view of swift moving clouds rolling over green pastures dotted with sheep and the ancient remains of castles– it’s like driving through a movie set. You kind of expect knights on horseback to come thundering down one…
Just outside the metropolis of Mumbai is Elephanta Island, where visitors can find a quiet reprieve from the noise and chaos of the city and perhaps even experience spiritual sense of peace. From the Gateway To India, we hopped on board a rickety wooden boat and out into the silvery bay, unable to see where the water…
Looking for a hotel near Petra, Jordan? Here’s a video review an inside look at the Movenpick Petra, located right outside of the entrance to the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Petra. Overall, Movenpick Petra’s location can’t be beat, the amenities are nice, and the courtyard is stunning. It’s a perfect place to stay if you…
It’s been at least ten years since my last Carnival Cruise, and my-oh-my things have changed. Last month, my friend, Suzie, and I went on a girl’s getaway on the Carnival Sunshine to relax and unwind before the busy start to the new year. We set out to disconnect from the world and find time…
I get this question a lot and it’s a tough one to answer. “What’s it like in India? What do you recommend seeing there? Is it really as bad as they say? How’s the Taj Mahal?” For starters, let me just say I love so much about India’s culture — the food, the flowing colorful…
What’s inside the famous treasury at Petra? I’ve always wondered. Is it just like in the movie Indiana Jones And The Last Crusade? Is it the entryway to a complex underground labyrinth and crypt? As one of the 7 Wonders Of The World, Petra was definitely on my must-see list when visiting Jordan. And I…
After taking a short holiday break, we’re back to sharing our weekly Hotels Unstaged series giving you an unedited look inside hotels around the world. Today’s inside peak is actually a tented camp in Jordan to give you a peak at what it’s like to spend the night in the desert! A bucket list item…
You’ve made your New Year’s resolution, you’ve gotten your bathing suit ready for your cruise. It’s time to relax, enjoy, and par-tay! But with the endless days of lounging by the pool and unlimited 24 hour buffets, they say the average cruiser puts on 10 pounds in a week. Yowza! That’s not cool. When I…
Do you know about the Krampus Christmas tradition? While visiting Prague with my mom in November, we noticed something a little unusual when we popped into a local market to grab a few things — a big display of foil-wrapped chocolate devils. Seriously. Right next to the Santas, a bunch of these little devils with…
I just got back from a Carnival cruise and have a whole list of notes of things I want to remember to bring next time, as well as a few things I brought along that I now know I can’t live without. If you’re headed out on a cruise soon, here’s are some helpful tips for…
My trip to Jordan was the first time I had visited the Middle East and I was a little intimidated about what to wear. It’s the first time I’ve ever stressed about what to pack. “Should I cover up? If so, how much? Can I wear jeans or leggings? Are short sleeves okay? What do…
The latest video released in our Hotels Unstaged series! These are just quick videos done in one take when we check in to a hotel in order to give you a feel of the room, what amenities are included, and an unfiltered look at what the hotel is like. We’ll have a new release each…
Ever wonder what it’s like to spend the night in an old vintage jail cell? The Malmaison Oxford Hotel, otherwise known as Oxford Prison, offers a unique experience. I never thought I’d spend the night in jail. After all, I’m a law abiding, cautious citizen-of-the-world that errs more of the side of being a goody-two-shoes…
Tonight I’m hopping on a flight to visit Great Britain for the second time this year and I can’t wait! We’ll have a brief stop in London where I’m hoping to have the opportunity to see the red poppy exhibition at Tower Bridge and then it’s off to Scotland to stay in castles, go for…
During my trip around the world with the Four Seasons Private Jet Experience, we’ve arrived in Mumbai during one of the biggest holidays in the country — Diwali. It’s a Hindu festival of light, a celebration of the triumph of good over evil. Everywhere you go, the vibe during Diwali is festive and lively. The Significance…
Tomorrow, I’m headed out with a group of bloggers on the adventure of a lifetime to visit Jordan. It’s been my dream to go here and visit Petra in person ever since I first saw these dramatic landscapes in movies. And as silly as this may sound, riding a camel and sleeping in a tent…
At the top of the Rocky Mountains in the central part of Alberta, along the treeline where the forest meets snow-dusted granite and slate, there’s a remarkable tree showing off it’s autumnal colors — the golden Alpine larches. While spending a long weekend at Lake Louise, Pete and I embarked on a half day hike up…
1. You Don’t Need A Map One of the challenges in any new city for a visitor is finding your way around. Rather than walking through the streets as confident as a local, taking in the fresh air and scenery, we sometimes find ourselves with our face pointed at a map. This is especially true…
While staying in Malta this spring, I had the opportunity to take a day trip up to the island of Gozo. Even though the country of Malta may seem small, there is quite a bit of ground to cover and it’s nearly impossible to see it all in a week, let alone one island in a…
Portland has an outstanding reputation for being a culinary destination. No, not that Portland, the other Portland. You know, the one in Maine. Didn’t realize there was an east-coast Portland that’s also popular among foodies? I hadn’t either until we stopped by and explored Maine’s largest city on our way to Nova Scotia. Since there’s…
In order to understand Malta, you really need to see it. So, I’ve designed this post to be more of a photo essay to really share the essence of this gorgeous little country. There’s some brief commentary in between highlighting all the main reasons I think traveling there would be worth your while and if…
Nantes (pronounced nahnt) is located near the western coast of France on the Loire River and is just a short 45 minute flight from Paris. With larger cities suffering from over-tourism, this quaint village with it’s perfect blend of history mixed with modern art and delicious food should be on your list of places to…
What does summertime mean to you? Is it lounging at the beach? Chasing the ice cream truck down the street with your kids? S’mores? Pete and I celebrated the end of summer with a coast-to-coast road trip across central Florida, with the intention of seeing and doing as much as we could in 24 hours….
Today’s guest post comes from luxury expert and lifestyle blogger, Kara Franker! She recently jetted over to the Dominican Republic for a weekend getaway. Here’s her story … Weekend Getaway To The Dominican Republic – Casa de Campo Located on the southeast coast of the Dominican Republic, in a charming coastal town called La Romana,…
If you’ve ever wanted to travel through a wine region with rolling green hills along a riverbank and quaint storybook villages surrounding ancient churches and castles, then Germany’s Rheingau wine region is for you. While wine production here is small, you’ll discover some of Germany’s most historically important wine makers along the Rhine River. There…
Croatia is not typically a country that comes to mind when people think of food and wine, but it should be. This emerging destination should be at the top of every culinary traveler’s list. Watch the video below to get a taste of Croatian food see what they’re best known for. Video: Croatian Food &…
I have waited entirely too long to post this. As I read my notes for German travel tips and edit photos this week from my trip to Germany this past spring, I confess, I’m drooling all over my computer. I mean, just look at these! I found myself thumbing through my iPhone menu photos and…
If you’ve ever wanted to travel through a wine region with rolling green hills along a riverbank and quaint storybook villages surrounding ancient churches and castles, then Germany’s Rheingau wine region is for you. While wine production here is small, you’ll discover some of Germany’s most historically important wine makers along the Rhine River as…
I love Twitter. Last week, I tweeted that I’d be visiting Europe this fall and wanted to know if anyone had any tips and must-visit places for Prague. To my surprise, I found the most heartfelt and genuine email from a Twitter friend that spent a year living in “the golden city.” It was so…
While visiting Hawaii, I had the chance to enjoy dinner at Four Seasons Hualalai’s beachfront restaurant, ULU Ocean Grill. The name Ulu derives from the Ka’upulehu region’s history as this is the area where ancestral Hawaiian’s grew breadfruit. Ka ‘ulu pulehu meaning “the roasted breadfruit” and ‘ulu meaning simply: breadfruit. I had the opportunity to…
Bora Bora is a dream destination for most. The mesmerizing crystal clear depth of cerulean water, a milky way of islands encircling a lush green volcano, and those iconic bungalows hovering over the lagoon on stilts — it’s enough to make one sigh and slip into a daydream. Having been, I can tell you it’s…
While visiting Germany this spring, I had the opportunity to visit a few places that were a bit off the beaten path, yet a perfect day-trip from Berlin. One such city, Dresden, is the capital of the German state of Saxony and I loved it so much that I ended up staying for an extended…
It’s rare that I’m able to loose myself in the moment, let alone feel relaxed for an entire day. So, I enthusiastically said yes when a friend invited me to go to Discovery Cove. I thought, “let’s give this relaxation thing a go!” It’s funny, I know Discovery Cove has been open here in Orlando…
I’ve had my fair share of rice while traveling. From arroz con pollo in the Caribbean to sweet mango sticky rice in Thailand. Curious about this simple grain that seems to grow so abundantly in Asia, I walked down to the rice fields at the Four Seasons Chiang Mai to get a closer look and…
I must confess, I love jewelry. While walking past window displays and open markets, I’m like a magpie attracted to anything colorful, glittery, or shimmering. I can’t help but stop and look. I might try and hide my addiction behind some perfectly reasonable explanation, like the fact that earrings and bracelets make great souvenirs since…
When I arrived by night in the city of Yangon, I couldn’t help but look in wonder at the glimmering Shwedagon Pagoda, lighting up the darkened sky with it’s golden splendor. Perched high up on a hill, it dominates the city’s skyline and is a visible icon from nearly every corner of Yangon. There are…
Despite being a small island nation, there is a lot to see in Malta. There’s azure blue grottoes and stunning sailing opportunities; foods I’ve never before tried and fabulous wines unique to the island; historic landmarks older than Stone Henge and glorious palaces — and that’s just scratching the surface. It’s definitely a week-long destination…
If you’re like me, then you squee when you hear this song and rush to the couch for a riveting hour of drama and laughter with Downton Abbey. We all have our favorite characters and quotes (personally, I can’t get enough of the Dowager), and any Downton fan headed to England certainly has seeing Downton…
It is entirely possible for a husband and wife to find balance and spend equal time doing things they both love during a trip. Pete and I just got back from a weekend road trip to Charlotte to indulge two of our interests … bikes and food. The drive quickly started out fun, with Pete…
Having a pint at a pub in London is a must-do with any trip to this historic city. While there’s plenty of pubs choose from, I highly recommend visiting one of the London’s oldest pubs, Ye Olde Cheshire Cheese. It was rebuilt in 1667 after the great fire and has had some pretty famous “regulars” including…
As the capitol of Alberta, Edmonton is best known for it’s reputation as a “Festival City” due to the amount of events scheduled there throughout the year. They also boast the largest mall in North America. Pete and I visited Edmonton on a festival-free weekend, so to be honest, we were a bit underwhelmed upon…
There’s nothing like celebrating Chinese New Year in Hong Kong. I had the opportunity to visit during this festive time of year and out of all the things we did that week, I’ve narrowed it down to 5 activities not to miss while in Hong Kong for Chinese New Year. 1 – Visit the Lam…
Sometimes, being on a food tour is not as deliciously rewarding as it sounds. Take, for instance, my visit to Hong Kong for Chinese New Year last year; the Year of The Snake. Do you think I found snake on the menu … you know … for good luck? You betchya. Here’s my experience with…
Strolling through the streets of Hong Kong, there’s no shortage of fun foods to try. Travelers can dig their chopsticks into traditional street foods such as rice noodle rolls and fish balls in tangy red sauce, or, for the adventurous gourmand, there’s slimy snake soup or gelatinous steamed tripe. (Foodie confession here … I can’t…
Going on a wild game safari to see the Big 5 is on everyone’s list when visiting South Africa. But, did you know you can also go on a cooking safari? There’s plenty of delicious foods to taste here that you won’t find anywhere else in the world and I’ve got a new “Big 5”…
During my around-the-world trip with the Four Seasons, our tour was coming to an end and I had just a day to explore the city of Budapest. Now, Budapest possesses some of the best coffee houses in Europe and with the gray skies and November chill in the air there is nothing else I wanted…
Cancun certainly has a reputation for fun. With mesmerizing blue water, soft sandy beaches, and notorious parties makes it pretty popular among the spring break crowd. In fact, it was actually one of my first international trips when I was a college student. But there really is so much more this area has to offer…
Italy, better known to foodies at eat-ily, has unarguably most popular food on the planet. With it’s savory pastas and delicious wines, Italian food pleases almost every picky palate and can be found offered on almost every menu around the world. But, there are quite a few “Italian” foods that aren’t actually Italian at all. …
Curious about how cheese is made? Want to learn more about one of the most famous cheeses in the world? During #Blogville we headed up to Parma, Italy, to get a behind-the-scenes look at Parmigiano Reggiano cheese.
I may have learned how to pick out good gelato from “fake” gelato while on a food tour in Rome, but I learned the art of tasting gelati and discovering new Italian gelato flavors while spending a summer in Bologna. Thankfully, Italian portions are small compared to the melon-sized scoops of ice cream you get…
I’ve been in Bologna for a week now and I’m absolutely enamored with the city. I’d never considered traveling to Bologna before coming here for this Blogville project, as Rome and Italy’s other famous cities steal the spotlight. But the one thing I’d heard about was Bologna’s porticoes. I had seen photos and read posts…
Calgary is known for its wide open spaces, wild west attitude, rolling prairies, and of course, their famous Stampede. It’s also the gateway into outdoor play in Banff and corporate headquarters for some pretty big companies. But after my quick visit there, I’d venture to say that Calgary is also a culinary mecca. This big…
Notes from the table … It’s lively, bustling atmosphere brings outdoor vibrancy indoors from the patio seating out front to the kitchen in the back with tables spanning the gap and a bar running the length of one side. With a singular focus on providing the highest quality meals using only the freshest ingredients, MARKET…
If you’ve ever seen a motivational wall calendar or artwork with dream-like waterfalls cascading through lush greenery into pools the color of turquoise gems, you’ve seen Plitvice Lakes. Pronounced “plit-veet-se,” this UNESCO World Heritage Site is quite captivating and is a must-see for any visit to Croatia. These 16 lakes with mineral-rich water in vibrant…
I ate my way through Croatia. Really, I did. The waistline in most of my shorts now squeezes my midsection as a reminder of all the Pag cheese, risotto, and other delicious things I consumed. I even wrote a list of “must tries in croatia” that I drool over frequently. But there was just…
Ever wonder what Dutch food is like? Admittedly, it’s not really a culinary destination. But there are a few treats you should look for besides Gouda cheese! If you’re visiting Amsterdam, or anywhere in the Netherlands, here’s a list of Dutch food to look for and taste for yourself. 1. Sprinkles on toast, or “Hagelslag”…
Writing for Visit Florida, I’m lucky enough to have the opportunity to travel to Miami quite a bit. Just a quick morning drive from Orlando, and I’m transported to a city with tall swaying palms, a vibrant Latin culture (and food!), and miles of beaches with mesmerizing azure water. Since it seems I’m there pretty…
Traveling to Croatia? Here are 10 items you must taste when it comes to Croatian food. From cheese, to liquors, desserts, and seafood, you’ll find a lot of Italian influence, fine wines, and European cafe culture when visiting Croatia. 1. Pag Cheese Pag is an island in Croatia that looks a lot like the surface…
I know it seems like a sort of cliche tourist thing to do, but I couldn’t wait to find out where to see a windmill in Holland. Driving from the airport in Amsterdam to Rotterdam, we spotted a few of the historic windmills along with the majestic modern ones of today, but none were really…
The island of Manhattan is 33.7 square miles of countless choices for cuisine and some of the best restaurants in the world. So the question is … where do you start? If it’s your first time in New York City, you must try their only-in-NYC pizza and bagels. But beyond fast food, there is a…
Finding a reasonably affordable stay in New York City might feel like searching for a needle in a haystack. Especially a hotel room that has any sort of amenities and is comfortable and clean. Honestly, I didn’t know if it was possible to find a “budget” stay for less than $300 a night. When you…
One of the things I love about tasting new foods when I travel is it seems to be the only thing left on earth that is reserved for experiencing in it’s native county. Sure, in this global economy we can have just about anything shipped from door-to-door, but not everything. I might be able to…
Bora Bora is indeed just like every inspirational poster and wall calendar you’ve seen. A picture perfect paradise with a serene blue lagoon, lush volcanic mountains, and those above water bungalows on stilts that everyone dreams about. If you go, you’ll probably rub your eyes and blink incessantly as every direction you look is photo-worthy. …
As the College of Cardinals gather inside the Sistine Chapel today while Catholics around the world wait in anticipation for the tell tale sign of white smoke to signify a new Pope, I can’t help but think back to my visit to the Vatican. I remember being absolutely spent at the end of the day…
Prior to reading Eat Pray Love, my only experience with the island of Bali had been admiring intricately carved wood furniture pieces in new age style furniture stores. Then I saw the movie and watched as Julia Roberts got her zen on, wearing flowing linen pants and riding a bicycle through a lush tropical oasis…
One of the most sensual articles of clothing I’ve ever worn. Here’s a quick video on how to wrap a sari … Check out my story, Touring Mumbai And The City Within, at Four Seasons Magazine. Produced by Rachelle Lucas Edited using Animoto
While in Mexico City, I learned that less than 25 miles northeast of town is the ancient archeological site of Teotihuacan. Here anyone can spend the day climbing Aztec pyramids and exploring this ancient city. I had to go! After spending the day stepping back in time, I have learned a few things Tips For…
Thoughts of South Africa bring to mind driving through the bush in a khaki painted Land Rover while spotting exotic wild animals like lions and cheetahs. So, while I knew of (and had tasted) several South African wines, I had no vision of what to expect when it came to their wine region. I was…
Living in Florida I’ve been to the Caribbean dozens of times and experienced first hand the pristine white sand, clear blue turquoise waters, and picturesque views that are typically only seen on inspirational wall calendars. And as relaxing as it might be, I can only sit by the pool and stare at the beach for…
The word mole originates from the Aztec word molli, meaning something smashed or pureed into a sauce. In the case of mole poblano, roasted chilies and vegetables, burned tortillas, intriguing spices, and chocolate are blended into a sophisticated topping for a multitude of dishes. The flavor profile is a complex tapestry of smoky chilies, garlic,…
Recently I was asked, “What is the best vacation you’ve ever had?” It’s a tough question to answer, since each trip is different and has its own unique experiences, self discoveries, and fun foods to try. Often, my sense of adventure and love of anticipation for a new journey has me replying, “any place I’ve…
A meal here is like a slow and sensual seduction of all the senses. Sight, sound, touch, scents, and finally … taste. It felt visceral, yet innocently fun. Like being on a first date and the excitement of discovering someone for the first time. Except, I was rediscovering my own palate during a multi-sensory food adventure.
The main staple for all Caribbean cooking is chicken and rice, or, arroz con pollo. Every country and region has it’s own version and the subtle changes and nuances in preparation really do make each one taste a little different. In fact, I think there’s a cookbook idea in there! Caribbean style chicken and rice…
Driving through the country of Costa Rica, you can’t help but notice bananas, coconut, coffee, and cocoa growing everywhere. These ingredients are pretty much what I gravitate toward on any dessert menu, so I felt as though I was in some sort of temptation-rich green organic version of Charlie And The Chocolate Factory. During our…
Pete and I flew from San Jose to Quepos on Nature Air Costa Rica. It was a fairly quick flight, only 25 minutes. There were no iced drinks or bags of peanuts — but man, oh, man — was it fun! Did you know that Nature Air is the first CARBON NEUTRAL airline in the…
Ever wonder where chocolate comes from? Here’s a peek! Along the border of Costa Rica and Panama is the River Yorkin, where an hour-long canoe ride will take you to a Bri Bri community that grows cocoa. We try our hand at making chocolate the old fashioned way … and it’s delicious!
Even though I’m a food and travel enthusiast … I don’t even know where to begin to chronicle this experience. Delicious? Amazing? Heavenly? There aren’t enough positive adjectives to describe this Rome tour. Though, I can tell you it was EXACTLY the experience I hoped to find. Imagine walking through a quaint Roman neighborhood, and…
Of all museums throughout the world, the Louvre is on the top of my list of museums worth traveling to see. Besides that fact that it’s in Paris, it was also once a fortress and residence of kings, and there are over 650,000 square feet of exquisite exhibits to get lost in. Not only is…
On a recent jaunt to Curacao, I scurried off the plane, quickly checked into Kura Hulanda Resort and immediately jetted over to one of the most popular restaurants in Curacao for dinner — Equus. The reason for my hurry? We were visiting the island just for the weekend and Equus is only open on Friday nights….
One of my favorite things to do when traveling is visiting the local grocery stores for a little cultural immersion and to purchase some unique souvenirs. Sometimes my favorite treats aren’t always items you can take back home with you on a plane, such as exotic fruit. While traveling to Mexico, Costa Rica and Belize,…
Our first day in Chicago was fantastic. We took the Lright from Chicago Midway Airport to the Silversmith Hotel, right by Millennium Park. The hotel was literally right next to the train stop, and the location was perfect for anyone who wants to explore downtown Chicago. To make it even better, the hotel offers…
Is it possible to do a safari on a budget? I used to think exploring South Africa and traipsing around in a Land Rover to find lions, zebras, and giraffes was a trip-of-a-lifetime that would cost $10,000+. Turns out, one can go on safari for as little as $128 a day, including safari, lodging, and…
I love to let my taste buds lead me to unique destinations when traveling. Because of this, I did a lot of walking around in Vancouver. And I do mean A LOT of walking around. Between Tweeted suggestions and just following yummy scents, I discovered a bunch of local foodie favorites including a fresh farmer’s…
Ever discover hippos in your front yard? I have. It happened not once, but twice while staying in St. Lucia, South Africa, to visit iSimangaliso Wetland Park. While sitting around a fire pit enjoying some South African Braai at Umlilo Lodge, another guest walked in and said, “there are hippos outside!” To which I immediately…
In this modern age of travel with the convenience of luggage made with built-in wheels and flights available pretty much anywhere around the world, I don’t know why I find myself fantasizing about “old world” travel. This is back during a time when it took weeks to navigate the globe by ship and modern amenities…
Learning a new language is sort of a funny thing. First, I typically start with helpful phrases such as asking where the bathroom is located, ordering a glass of wine, and basic counting from 1 to 10. After that, I tend to want to know the “dirty words.” (Don’t we all?) Which is why I…
We’ve been in South Africa for a week now, traveling along the Western Cape from Cape Town, through the winelands to Hermanus, then the Garden Route to Wilderness, and now we’re in Durban. I have to say it’s more than I expected and even better than I had imagined! The diversity in the lanscapes leaves…
On my recent trip across the United States for Race Across America, I had the fortune to drive through Monument Valley. The red dust and unique rock formations have you feeling like you’ve either landed on Mars or stepped back in time to an old spaghetti Western with Clint Eastwood. Monument Valley is about a…
This weekend I’ll be flying out to LA to participate on the media team for Race Across America (RAAM). There are over 250 racers from 15 different countries including Australia, Austria, Brazil, Bulgaria, Canada, Denmark, Germany, India, Ireland, Israel, Italy, Korea, Liechtenstein, New Zealand, Norway, Russia, Slovenia, Switzerland, United Kingdom, and the USA. Find your country and root for your team here…
Santa Fe is a hub of art, history and culture and the city’s ten museums highlight that. For a small city (2010 census figures put the population at a little over 75,000) that’s a lot of museums. They all have a distinct character and are worth a visit. If time is short, here are my five top picks:
The Amalfi Coast is often described as breathtaking. Now, having been there, I could argue that it’s not the scenery that takes your breath away, but the insane way that Italians drive while ignoring any form of lane boundaries and taking cliff-side curves at high speeds. It’s enough to turn your hair white.
Yes. You read that correctly. That does say cricket. The evening started innocently enough with a tequila tasting. Eh hem. And since I wasn’t challenged to eat a worm in tequila, I thought I should rise to the occasion when presented with a cricket. I think the pictures below will speak for themselves.
Imagine how giggly and happy I became when I was able to have pink for breakfast. Seriously! A whole plate of Pink Fruit. And not a pale, pepto or Barbie pink. A bright and bold adventurous magenta!