From award winning wines, plates of spaghetti al pomodoro, brick oven pizzas and rainbows of gelato, Italy has every delicious calorie covered. But the pastries? Mama mia! Italians love sweets and theirs are some of the best in the world. Here are my favorites and descriptions of each confection. Cannoli are likely the most famous dessert but can be eaten any time of the day, even for breakfast. These gems …
It’s called “Agriturismo”. The name gives it away. Translation, a working farm, vineyard (or both!), open to guests offering hospitality in a rural setting. Usually with an emphasis on sustainability and a connection with the land. Perfect for our Italian adventure where gastronomy is the heart and soul of this country. In the Campania and Salerno regions, the farm to table experience is like no other I’ve ever sampled. Highlights …
Dreaming of spending Valentine’s Day in the most romantic city in the world? Don’t limit yourself to the 14th of February. Paris is the perfect city for a romantic getaway, ANY day. First, check and book flights. Skyscanner is a great app for that. Make hotel, lunch and dinner reservations online with the information provided in my descriptions and recommendations. Where to stay Next, look at hotels. My personal favorite …
Part of a robust, magical traveling experience involves sampling fabulous foods from far-flung destinations, right? It slays me when I hear travelers asking for directions to the nearest American fast food joint when the locals can suggest so many marvelous and different options. You can get a burger and fries at home. Anytime. While you’re visiting Spain, try the Paella Valenciana, and in Portugal the Croquetas or the Padron Peppers. …
“A good story cannot be devised, it has to be distilled” Raymond Chandler Ireland: Republic of and Northern Distilled in great photos with brief commentary. Five grand adventures beginning with Dublin and a circumnavigation of the Republic of Ireland, with a pause for positive Covid test adding eleven days to the journey. A chance to visit Northern Ireland. Dublin’s jewels: Jameson’s, St. Patrick’s ( built 1220) novelist Oscar Wilde, Irish …
One of the best ways to learn the intimacies of foreign cuisines (and sample the goods!) is to take a cooking class when you travel. I had this amazing experience at Dar Rhizlane Palais and Table D’Hotes one recent morning in Marrakech. The word tajine refers to both the conical-shaped dish and the food that’s cooked inside it, which is usually a blend of delicious sweet and savoury flavours. Traditionally …