This post is done in cooperation with Visit Natchez to promote #VisitNatchezResponsibly. Our first visit to the state of Mississippi was to the riverside town of Natchez. We drove up to Natchez from Florida and found it to be a wonderful road trip destination. And we also planned our weekend away in 2020, so we…
Destinations
Bologna Food – A Guide To Italy’s Most Delicious City
Bologna is one of my favorite culinary destinations. And while it isn’t as well known as other Italian cities, the food in Bologna is the best! What kind of food can you expect? Well, Bologna is known for cured meats, salty cheeses, handmade pastas, hearty meat sauces, and of course, gelato. And if that doesn’t sound…
A Review Of Cathay Pacific’s Premium Economy
Skagway Alaska – Davidson Glacier A Must See
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 cruise, I mentioned to my husband, Pete, more than once that it felt like we woke up in a painting, surrounded by fresh mountain…
Italian Curse Words To Know – Wicked Italian For The Traveler
Monograms Travel Review: Stress-Free Vacations For Independent Travelers
Visitors Guide To Rimini – A Beautiful Beach Town Outside Ravenna
Located along the northeastern coast of Italy, Rimini is the perfect destination for travelers seeking a relaxing getaway without the crowds. Rimini is famous for colorful beach umbrellas and cabanas dotting the shore along the pristine Adriatic Sea. But there’s so much more to it than just a beach vacation. In addition to the beach, there’s…
Mad Hatter’s Afternoon Tea at Sanderson London
This is perhaps my favorite, and one of my most memorable, afternoon teas – the Mad Hatter’s Afternoon Tea London. A playful Alice In Wonderland theme will delight and surprise with every detail on the table. From the menus tucked inside vintage books, to sugar cubes stored in music boxes, and even marshmallows made in the…
Paris Food Tour | The Best Of Food & History In Paris!
The most memorable part of our trip to Paris was a day we spent on a self guided food tour, walking to historic places like the oldest cafe and oldest bakery in Paris. Nibbling our way though historic neighborhoods and markets was our idea of heaven. Paris is certainly famous for food; the macarons, the…
3 Reasons To Cruise The Best Christmas Markets In Europe
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…
Guide To Visiting San Marino
Have you heard of San Marino? It’s a tiny country located in the northeastern part of Italy and is the third smallest country in Europe, and the fifth smallest in the world! The Republic of San Marino is just a little over 24 square miles, with winding roads leading to the capital city sitting high on…
Vegan Hamburg: Travelers Recommended Their Favorite Plant Based Restaurants
This post about Vegan Hamburg is sponsored by and created in cooperation with Hamburg Tourism. Hamburg has an incredibly diverse food scene influenced by their historic port connected to the North Sea. It’s definitely Germany’s “Gateway to the World,” with everything from Nordic cuisine, to fine teas at the famously well-photographed Wasserschloss along the canals. But…
Avalon Waterways Review – Active & Discovery On The Danube
This post is sponsored by Avalon Waterways in collaboration with iAmbassador. However, all opinions are my own. When it comes to river cruising, what comes to mind? Personally, I love the luxury of unpacking only once and still getting to visit multiple cities. It’s the epitome of relaxation and slow travel. The first time I…
Best Places For Afternoon Tea In London
Going for afternoon tea in London is a must-do for when visiting 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 labeled, “drink me.” Or you could go for a…
24 Hours In Orlando – An Off The Beaten Path Foodie Itinerary
Food & Wine Tour Of Sicily and Southern Italy
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…
Kinderdijk: Windmills in Holland
If you’re visiting Amsterdam or Rotterdam, Kinderdijk is a perfect day trip to see Holland’s windmills. Even though it seems touristy, personally 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…
EPCOT Food and Wine Festival – Travel Tips
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…
Where To Stay In Scotland
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 see a lot in to a single vacation. So, if…
A Foodie’s Road Trip Guide To Nova Scotia
5 Artisanal Foods You Must Taste At Mercato Centrale Rome
Food halls are trending, so it’s no surprise that one of the most delicious cities on earth has one you must visit — Mercato Centrale Rome. There’s so many artisanal delicacies all under one roof that a visit to Rome wouldn’t be complete without a stop at Mercato Centrale, especially for culinary souvenirs to take…
7 Reasons An Avalon River Cruise Should Be Your Next Vacay
This post is sponsored by Avalon Waterways. All thoughts and opinions are my own. River cruises are not what they used to be. Gone are the days of meeting in port for stuffy tours on big busses with boring itineraries. Avalon Waterways has created something unique for a new generation of thoughtful travelers, their Active…
A Pint At One Of London’s Oldest Pubs
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…
Top 7 Things To Do In Porto Portugal
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…
Croatian Food: Top 14 Things To Taste In Croatia
Traveling to Croatia? Here are 10 items you must taste when it comes to Croatian food. From cheese, to liquors, desserts, seafood, and more! You’ll find a lot of Italian influence, fine wines, and European cafe culture when visiting Croatia. Croatian Food: From Savory To Sweet, 14 Things You Must Taste When Visiting Croatia 1….
The Original French Macaron – Sweet Almond Wafers From St Emilion
Before there were the bright colored Ladurée macarons (pronounced “ma-ka-roh”), or the coconut macaroon (pronounced “ma-ka-roon”), there was the original French macaron -a thin sweet almond wafers made my nuns in 17th century France. You can still find the original French macarons being made in a quaint medieval village of Saint Emilion, best known for its luscious…
Game of Thrones: 7 Must See Filming Locations
A Day In Malta: Exploring Valletta’s “3 Cities”
Despite being a small island nation, there is a lot to see in Malta. There’s azure blue grottoes, the island of Gozo, and stunning sailing opportunities. Malta has foods you’ve likely never before tried and fabulous wines unique to the island. There’s also historic landmarks older than Stone Henge and glorious palaces. It’s definitely a…
7 Reasons To Explore Soho On A London Food Tour
During my last trip to London doing research about British gin, I spent an evening exploring a new-to-me neighborhood on a Soho London Food Tour. Located in the heart of London’s West End, the streets here are full of theaters, pubs, and an incredible variety of international foods. Unlike New York’s SoHo, which is named for…
Where To Stay In Bordeaux
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…
7 Things To Do In San Francisco
With our combined love for the outdoors and delicious food finds, San Francisco feels like our spirit city. 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…
7 Insider Tips For Visiting Prague
24 Hours In Belfast Ireland
During a 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. During longer stays, I’ve enjoyed a whole week driving along the coast on a Game of Thrones Tour to visit the show’s filming…
Game Of Thrones Tour – Northern Ireland
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…
7 Things You Should Know Before Hopping Into A Hot Air Balloon
Hong Kong Day Trip: Lantau Island
7 Unexpected Things To Do In Scotland
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…
How To Stick To Your Fitness Routine While Cruising
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…
How To Do Chinese New Year In Hong Kong
7 European Christmas Market Foods To Taste This Holiday Season
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…
Celebrate Christmas And The Holidays At Universal Orlando Resort
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….
What To Eat In Spain – 13 Spanish Foods You Must Try
Traveling in Madrid or Barcelona and wondering what to eat in Spain? The list of delicious Spanish foods can be endless! And Spain is most definitely 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…
7 Reasons To Visit Leeds Instead Of London
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…
3 Delicious Neighborhoods To Visit In Hong Kong
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…
Austrian Alps Farm House Stay
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…
Welsh Food – What To Eat In Wales
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 Mexico – 5 Things Not To Miss
Summer Alaskan Cruise
FICO Eataly World – A Food Theme Park In Bologna
Best Gelato In Bologna – A Self-Guided Walking Tour
Volcano Bay: Tips For Planning Your Visit
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…
The Opry Experience
Things To Do In Nashville – For Foodies!
Italian Coffee: A Guide To Ordering Coffee In Italy
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. t’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?
72 Hours In Hanoi, A 3-Day Itinerary For Foodies
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,…
Dining In The Dark
5 Reasons To Visit Reggio Emilia in Italy
If you like to travel off the beaten path, Reggio Emilia is definitely for you. 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…
Zurich Restaurants: Where To Eat In Zurich
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, and even a restaurant that holds the world record for being the first vegetarian restaurant. I was quite impressed with the variety available, the gourmet coffee…
The Sprouting Project – Omni Amelia Island
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…
Korean Food Terms To Know
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,…
7 Reasons Foodies Need To Visit Greenville NOW
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…
Aruba Jeep Safari
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…
Tacos, Tango, and Tequila — Things To Do In Albuquerque
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…
Dining and Shopping in La Romana
48 Hours In Winnipeg
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…
7 Reasons To Get Excited About New Dining Experiences On Carnival Vista
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…
24 Hours In Sydney
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…
Dubrovnik: Where To Eat And What To See!
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 Delicious Weekend In Grand Rapids
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…
5 Reasons Foodies Should Visit Richmond BC
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…
7 Time Saving Reasons To Stay On-Site At Universal Orlando Resort
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….
Taste Of Spain Photo Gallery
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…
A Taste Of Spain With GoAhead Tours
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…
Colorado Trip Ideas For Winter
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…
Hong Kong – A Foodie’s Dream Itinerary
Halloween Horror Nights At Universal Orlando
Loy Krathong Lantern Festival In Sukhothai Thailand
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…
Mendenhall Glacier Excursion And Downtown Juneau
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…
Where Is Wales? Plus 12 Welsh Facts You Didn’t Know
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…
New Orleans Guide For First Timers – With Printable!
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 to…
Taste Louisiana – Alexandria LA
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…
5 Must-Do Colorado Experiences Around Boulder
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…
Taste Louisiana – 48 Hours In Covington
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…
Albuquerque Hotel Review: Los Poblanos Lavender Farm Stay
Throw A Downton Abbey Party
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…
Seoul Food: A Culinary Week In South Korea
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…
Korean Airlines Review
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…
Air France Premium Economy Review
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…
A Walk Around Giant’s Causeway
Like A Local Tour – Sunday Funday In NYC
A Guided Food Tour Of Ireland by Chef Kevin Dundon
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,…
8 Reasons Why You Should Spend Your Next Wine Vacation In South Africa
Video Review: Disney’s BoardWalk Inn
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…
Follow Me In Wales: A Culinary Itinerary
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…
Follow Me In Zurich: A Culinary Itinerary
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…
Grilled Cheese Sandwich – South African Style
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…
Carnival’s Chef’s Table: A Sneak Peek Behind The Scenes
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…
Travel With Me To Bordeaux France!
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…
A #RaglanRoadTrip To Ireland
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? Five home chefs that are fans of the Orlando’s Raglan Road Irish Pub and Chef Kevin Dundon’s PBS Show, Modern Irish Cooking, each submitted a winning video showcasing their recipe…
3 Jordanian Spices To Add To Your Pantry
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…
A Day In Old San Juan
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…
3 Boutique Miami Hotels On The Cheap
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…
Sheraton Amman Review
Markets Of Myanmar – A Photo Tour
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…
Wild Florida Review — What It’s Like To Be A Zookeeper For A Day
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,…
6 Fabulous Paris Hotels Recommended By Travelers
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 over 2,000 hotels in Paris, and with that many choices, how can…
Scottish Highlands – 18 Photos That Will Make You Want To Visit Scotland Now
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…
Exploring Elephanta Island
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…
Movenpick Petra Hotel Review
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…
Carnival Sunshine: Seven Days Sailing Around the Western Caribbean
What It’s Like To Travel In India
30 Photos Of Petra You Won’t Believe
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…
Video: Tented Desert Camp In Jordan Review
Krampus Christmas: Santa Travels With Devils In Prague
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…
Helpful Tips For Making The Most Of Your Cruise
What To Wear In Jordan – 7 Packing Tips For Women
Video: Four Seasons George V Paris Review
Oxford Prison – Malmaison Oxford Hotel
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…
Follow Me In Scotland: A Culinary Countryside Itinerary
Sweet Diwali: Celebrating The New Year In India
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…
Jordan Itinerary: A Culinary Adventure
Hiking Saddleback Pass To See The Alpine Larches
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…
5 Reasons Why Nantes Is One Of The Most Visitor-Friendly Cities I’ve Ever Traveled To
Taking The Green Bus Around Gozo
24 Hours In Portland
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…
6 Reasons To Visit Malta
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…
10 Photos That Will Inspire You To Visit Nantes France
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…
24 Hour Itinerary: Coast-To-Coast Across Central Florida
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….
Weekend Getaway To The Dominican Republic
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,…
3 Must-Visit Places In Rheingau Wine Region
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…
Video: Croatian Food & Wine
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 &…
German Food: 15 Photos That Prove It’s Not All Sausage And Beer
ULU Ocean Grill: Plant-To-Plate Dining In Hawaii
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…
5 Things They Don’t Tell You About Bora Bora
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…
Photo Essay: A Day In Dresden
Girlfriends Getaway To Discovery Cove
Exploring Thailand’s Rice Terraces
Bora Bora’s Black Pearls
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. Sure, earrings and bracelets make great souvenirs since they’re small and easy to pack. But let’s be honest here, I’m just using that…
Why Shwedagon Pagoda In Yangon Should Be On Your Bucket List
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…
3 Downton Abbey Film Locations Not To Miss When Visiting London
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…
His-N-Hers Weekend In Charlotte
What Yoga Is Like In India
5 Must-Try Eats In Edmonton
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…
Going on a Cooking Safari in Cape Town
The Best Coffee Houses In Budapest
The Cultural Side Of Cancun
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…
5 Fake Italian Foods
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. …
Video: Making Parmigiano Reggiano Cheese
6 Italian Gelato Flavors To Taste While In Italy
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 gelato and discovering new Italian gelato flavors while spending multiple summers exploring food in Bologna. Thankfully, Italian portions are small compared to the melon-sized scoops of ice cream…
Cowboys In The Kitchen: The Maverick Chefs Of Calgary
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…
This little piggy went to MARKET Calgary
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…
Tips For Visiting Plitvice Lakes, Croatia
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…
Confessions Of A Foodie: I Can’t Do Oysters
Dutch Food: 7 Fun Foods To Taste In Holland
Ever wonder what Dutch food is like? Admittedly, Holland is not really known for being 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…
Boutique Beach Stays In Miami
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…
NYC Food Tours
Top 5 Things To Taste In South Africa
Pristine Sistine – 4 Secrets Of The Vatican
How To Wrap A Sari
Visiting Teotihuacan – The City of the Gods
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…
South African Wine Country
Top 5 Reasons To Visit Curacao
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…
Mole Poblano
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,…
Eco-Retreat In Costa Rica
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…
The Sensual Art Of Fine Dining
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.
Caribbean Style Chicken & Rice
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. (I think there’s a multi-country chicken and rice cookbook idea there!) Driving through the country…
Flying Nature Air In Costa Rica
Making Chocolate in Costa Rica
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 in the rainforest. While visiting with the Bri Bri community, we went hiking for cacao, learned how to…
A Mouthwatering Food Tour Of Rome
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…
5 Practical Tip For Visiting The Louvre
Equus Curacao – Best BBQ On The Island
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….
Top 5 Exotic Fruits To Try While Visiting Central America
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,…
Safari On A Budget
Encountering Hippos In iSimangaliso Wetland Park
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…
Cape Grace Hotel Review
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…
Monument Valley Photos
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…
Race Across America: An Epic Journey
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…
Surviving The Amalfi Coast
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.