How do they achieve the mind-blowing level of detail in these intricate, colorful ice figurines, considering that, except for a few safety railings, everything inside is made of ice?

Explore a magical holiday retreat from November 19 to December 31, 2023, showcasing ICE! featuring Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer, along with beloved activities and live shows suitable for all ages.

Enjoy a myriad of festive activities and the chance to spot celebrities at the Christmas Village, suitable for all ages @gaylordnational

Unforgettable nostalgia: don’t miss this magical experience with @gaylordnational. It will bring back fond memories for all who grew up with Rudolph and his friends. Relive cherished adventures and reunite with beloved friends.

To delve into the history, read on. It is quite fascinating.

Preserving Tradition with Meticulous Artisanship

Originating from Heilongjiang Province, China, the skilled team of artisans meticulously carves the ice for this captivating attraction.

Employing chisels, chainsaws, and hand-crafted tools, these artisans uphold a tradition rooted in the Harbin Ice Festival, a practice passed down through generations.

Frozen Logistics: Crafting 6,000 Colossal Ice Blocks for Spectacular Shows

The creation process involves three factories producing the 6,000 ice blocks required for each show. These colossal blocks, measuring 10″ x 21′ x 42′ and weighing 300lbs, demand 35 gallons of water each, totaling an astounding 210,000 gallons for a single show. The logistical feat involves 48 trucks with 52ft trailers for transportation.

The production phase at each Gaylord Hotel involves a dedicated team of 35 ICE artisans, including 25 builders, 9 detail carvers, and 2 electricians. It takes nearly 12,000 hours for this skilled team to shape the ice within the expansive 17,000-square-foot cold room. Maintained at a constant 9°F, seven air handlers work tirelessly to ensure the optimal conditions for the 38 days of carving and the 43-day run of the show.

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The coastal city of Portland is shaped by a peninsula that’s only 4.6 square miles. While just 68,063 people permanently reside in the city, that number swells more than four times in the summer months as tourists and cruise ship visitors fill the restaurants and shops in the Old Port area. That makes winter a pleasant time to visit, where you can enjoy the city’s historic charm, and you won’t have to worry about getting into a local seafood restaurant. Speaking of restaurants, Portland is definitely a foodie town. There are 536 registered restaurants and five James Beard award-winners.

What is your Maine Thing?

It’s always a good idea to get an overall history tour with a local guide when visiting any place for the first time. We took two tours with @mainedayventures: “A Walk Through Time” and a “Culinary Tour of Portland.” So, what are the top three questions a Maine tour guide gets asked? 

Where can I find a Holy Donut (and what are they)? 

Where do I get the best lobster rolls? 

And where do I go for breakfast?

Culinary Tour of Portland

Our “Culinary Tour of Portland” (led by super-knowledgeable A.J. @mainedayventures) started at Andy’s Pub with some incredible fish tacos accompanied by the perfect Portland-brewed ale. Then we jumped next door to Gilbert’s Chowder House for bowls of seafood and clam chowder. The Gilbert family has been in the same location for 70 years, and new kitchen staff signs an NDA not to disclose their secret recipe. 

A.J. shucked us a few fresh oysters off the dock and served them with a bit of lemon juice. Delicious! Fun fact about oysters: they’ve been around for approximately 15 million years. An oyster becomes an adult when it turns one year old and can live as long as 20 years. Oysters can change their sex. And in fact, they will often do it more than once.

Next was a classic Maine potato donut from Holy Donut. Potatoes grown in Maine (when baked into a donut) taste unique and cake-like. We then visited a local dive called Mash Tun, which served the most delicious (and reasonably priced) lobster roll I’ve had so far. No sea views here, but killer Maine lobster rolls. And finally, we ended the tour at Cellardoor Winery to sample some Maine-crafted wines. If I lived here, this would definitely be my weekly hangout spot.

Where do I get the best lobster rolls? 

So where do you get the best lobster in Portland? Before I share my recommendations, here are some interesting facts about the industry. A new report from the Maine Department of Marine Resources says that the value of Maine’s commercially harvested marine resources in 2021 reached an all-time high of $900 million. $700 million comes from lobster, so it’s a sizable part of Maine’s economy. The remainder of Maine’s seafood catch comprises of steamers, clams, and oysters.

Here are the best lobster rolls that I found in Portland, Maine. Best lobster rolls with a view: Luke’s Lobster Portland Pier. My recommendation is to try the Lobster Roll Flight ($38) with three 2 ounces varieties: lemon butter, spicy honey butter, and truffle butter.

The best lobster roll value without a view: Portland Mash Tun. As I described earlier, their traditional Maine lobster roll is perfect ($22). Unfortunately, we did not get to try Highroller Lobster Company (as the restaurant was closed for a month). Still, our tour guide Ross said they were also lobster roll tops!

Where to go for breakfast in Portland?

Where to go for breakfast? I usually don’t do breakfast. However, after being treated to homemade chocolate chip cookies, we stopped by The Standard Baking Co. for their freshly baked chocolate croissants and fresh shortbread cookies. Their cookies and croissants are good because they are not too buttery. But then again, it is hard to eat just one cookie. I would visit here for the fresh bread on a weekly basis if I were a local.

A Walk Through Time

On our “A Walk Through Time” history tour, my favorite stop was visiting the United States Customs House. Located near Portland’s waterfront, the United States Custom House is a testament to the city’s maritime history. It was designed to display the financial power and strength of the U.S. economy.

A blend of Renaissance and Second Empire styles, the three-story, I-shaped granite structure was utilized to assess, levy, and collect duties and taxes on imported goods to the United States. The building is organized around the grand two-story customs hall, which is the building’s public showplace. Two counters are constructed of several types of marble quarried on an island in Lake Champlain. It remains a Federal public building today to showcase advanced geothermal heating and cooling technologies. It is the best remaining example of Supervising Architect of the Treasury Alfred B. Mullett’s work in Maine and was listed in the National Register of Historic Places in 1973.

In Maine, it’s required to photograph lighthouses

The two tours were a great introduction to Portland. Of course, when in Maine, I had to chase down a few lighthouses. Time permitting, you’ll definitely want to visit these lighthouses, which are only a 10-to-15-minute drive from central Portland.

Portland Head Light is the best example of a classic lighthouse, perched on a dramatic cliffside with crashing waves against a rock wall. Smaller lights along the harbor near Old Port are the Bug Light and the Spring Point Ledge Light. 

If those lighthouses capture your romantic imagination for the sea, I’d also recommend a visit to the Maine Maritime Museum in nearby Bath to discover Maine’s nautical history. There, you’ll find a fascinating interactive media exhibit of the Cape Elizabeth light, showing how lighthouses are built, maintained, and operated. There are quite a collection of ship models from Maine’s long history of shipbuilding, exhibits about Maine’s maritime heritage, culture, and the role Maine has played in regional and global maritime activities.

Why I loved visiting Maine in Winter

Maine is not yet considered a winter destination. But if you want to beat the crowds and save money on accommodations, a visit to Maine in winter is in order. It wasn’t too cold, but if you wear a Merino wool base head covering and dress appropriately for the weather, you’ll be comfortable. I toured by foot for three hours and stayed nice and toasty. Plus, there are plenty of interesting shops to duck into and warm up. My hotel stay was inexpensive since it was off-season, so it’s a great value, and you’ll still have access to lighthouses and museums.

There is no shortage of things to do in Maine during winter.  #WinterinMaine

I really love Maine. No matter which seasons you visit, it’s quite a charming destination with classic New England hospitality.

The post Why I loved visiting Maine in Winter appeared first on Ann-Tran.

Hello from San Francisco #SanFrancisco #travel pic.twitter.com/1E2B9WuKwA

— Ann Tran (@AnnTran_) December 4, 2021

Take it from me: You must visit these three vineyards the next time you’re in Napa Valley: Castell Di Amorosa, Cakebread Cellars, and Chatueau Montelena.

Tasting in a Castle — Castello Di Amorosa

Castello Di Amorosa (Castle of Love) is a must-visit. Not only is the vineyard extraordinary, but their wines are also incredible. I am pretty sure you will find a few amazing choices here. The Castle is in the town of Calistoga.

Why is Castello Di Amorosa my favorite vineyard? Let me count the ways. One, not to be too obvious, it’s a castle. Made from an estimated 1 million antique bricks from Europe along with something like 200 containers of furnishings and embellishments for the interior. Locally, 8,000-plus tons of stones were used in the castle’s construction, which took 15 years. The vaulted wine cellars are stunning, as one would expect.

Staying true to the medieval architecture, Castello Di Amorosa has high ramparts, a moat, drawbridge, and five towers. There are courtyards, loggias, stables for horses, and a chapel. And there’s a torture chamber. The number of rooms, no two alike, adds up to 107.

Don’t believe me? See for yourself on this virtual tour.

Don’t Let the Name Fool You — Cakebread Cellars

Cakebread Cellars is my go-to winery, and I visited here years ago. Consistently excellent, this family-owned and operated winery never disappoints. BTW, the family name is Cakebread. Their first Sauvignon Blanc grapes were planted in the early 1970s. Cakebread Cellars is in the town of Rutherford.

Bottle Shock — Chateau Montelena

You’ve heard of Chateau Montelena but maybe don’t know it. Chateau Montelena is the winery that won the Judgement of Paris, a blind tasting, in 1976. This was immortalized in the movie “Bottle Shock.” They have a beautiful vineyard, but I was not keen on the wine tasting. Worth the visit for photo ops. “Bottle Shock” is worth a watch, too. Chateau Montelena is located in Calistoga.

Back to San Francisco via the Golden Gate Bridge

Visiting San Francisco is a natural complement to Napa Valley given their proximity. I’ve visited this gem of a city a few times but never took the time to take photos from these vantage points: Battery Spencer and the Golden Gate Bridge Welcome Center. Does that happen to you, too? Visit a world-class destination and still have a number of must-see’s/must-do’s still on your list.

Battery Spencer is across the Golden Gate Bridge in Marin County and offers city skyline and panoramic views. Wear good walking shoes as parking is very tight and more than likely you’ll have to hoof it for the best view. So worth it, though.

Back in San Francisco is the Golden Gate Bridge Welcome Center. The Center tells the history of the Golden Gate Bridge and shares its architectural magnificence. There are many lookout points and vista spots. I suggest getting here at the beginning of the day and being prepared to walk.

Even on an overcast December day, the views are spectacular as you can see here.

The Crookedest Street in the World

The first time I visited Lombard Street, we drove down this curvy road’s eight hairpin turns. This time, we parked on top of the hill and walked through the neighborhood. Can you imagine living here? It would be super cool, but you would have tourists constantly crossing your flower beds. #sanfranciscocalifornia

The first time I visited #LombardStreet, we drove down this curvy road. This time, we parked on top of the hill & walked through the neighborhood. Can you imagine living here? It would be super cool but you would have tourists constantly crossing your flower beds. #SanFrancisco pic.twitter.com/aG17lKLGui

— Ann Tran (@AnnTran_) December 30, 2021

We visited San Francisco for two days and then headed to wine country. You can’t visit wine country without stopping by San Francisco, and it really doesn’t matter which one you do first.

From the Golden State we visited our 50^th state for more wine and sunshine in Maui. Here’s a virtual postcard. Aloha!

The post Best Napa Valley Tastings with Notes of Iconic San Francisco appeared first on Ann-Tran.

The interviews were part of the Hawaii Food & Wine Festival activities. You’ll enjoy learning more about these kitchen wizards Roy’s Ka’anapali. You’ll want to get to Maui ASAP to try the food for yourself. Tasting is believing.

Thank you to chefs Roy, Troy, Taylor, Chung, and Graham for hosting and spending the day with us.

Top Chef Roy Yamaguchi

Chef Roy Yamaguchi is the Roy behind Roy’s Ka’anapali and serves as co-chair of the Hawaii Food & Wine Festival Team.

Ann: … what’s a stepping-stone profession to becoming a chef?

Chef Roy: … So, I think that’s also something that maybe some people might not, you know, might have thought of. A lot of chefs are musicians.

Ann: I didn’t know that.

Chef Roy: A lot of chefs have a past performing. I’m a drummer.

Ann: I was going to ask what is yours?

Chef Roy: Yeah, I’m a drummer.

Ann: Are you in a band?

Chef Roy: I was in a band. Guy plays guitar. I played in a band. Emeril Lagasse plays drums, too. So, there’s a lot of chefs that, you know, are pretty heavy-handed in music so I think that’s pretty cool.

Chef Troy Guard &  Huli-Huli

Ann: … tell us more about your path to becoming a chef.

Chef Troy: … and then every summer I’d come and visit my dad. My dad’s a big barbecue guy and people would hire him to huli-huli or …

Ann: What’s huli-huli*?

Chef Troy: So, they have a spit and they just rotate it. And he would do pieces of beef on there, pork, anything like that. And actually, I’ll have to find some pictures, but every year for Thanksgiving, they’d have about fifty turkeys in the ground up in Kula (a district of Maui) and they’d tell everyone be here by 6 a.m. 

They drop it off and come back in six hours and everyone has their turkeys ready. 

Ann: Oh, you just cook it for them. That’s so unique.

Chef Troy: And then my mom was a great baker and loved cooking, but I went to junior college in San Diego, so for two years I worked in the kitchen, and I did, you know, schoolwork and then I was like, “I don’t know if I really like this.” I like cooking so I want to stay with it, but it wasn’t until I turned 21 I moved back to Maui and I started working at Roy’s (Yamaguchi) and then I was like “Wow?” So, he kind of took me under his wing and hats off to him. 

Ann: Why do you think it has taken so long for Americans to appreciate different foods?

Chef Troy: You know, I think, my opinion, it’s always been dumbed down right. So if you, again my opinion, if you eat Chinese food in Denver it’s dumbed down. If you eat Chinese food in New York it’s authentic. You have to cook for what people like and they’re used to a certain Mexican or certain Asian or a certain whatever, so you come here and it’s always the same stuff so now I’ve seen it really branch out.

*Huli-huli chicken is grilled chicken dish that is barbecued over mesquite wood and basted with a sweet sauce.

Chef Chung Chow Carries On with Carry-Out

Ann: What’s a dish or style of something you’d like to cook but haven’t worked up the nerve yet?

Chef Chung: Thai and Indian cuisine are tricky because you got to master the spices, right? That different combinations and stuff that I am not too familiar with because of spices in India I’ve never heard of before, and I think Indian cuisine is one of the harder ones.

Ann: Do you want to challenge yourself?

Chef Chung: You know I want to, but I don’t want to fail miserably too much … trying to attack doing it, so I think that’s one of the hard ones to do Indian cuisine. Yeah, good suggestion. 

Ann: So maybe we’ll find a new dish on the menu.

Chef Chung: Yeah …

Ann: So, how did you fare during COVID?

Chef Chung: In the beginning … it was a lot of challenges, right? How to deal with my staff, myself, you know. Every restaurant wants to stay open but you don’t want your staff to be compromised for it. You know getting people sick … whatever … especially in the beginning nobody knew how to deal with the disease yet. But, um yeah, we closed down for probably less than half a year. We opened for take-out, like a lot of people did. And I think, um, now that we obviously took all the precautions and everything we were supposed to do and we came out stronger and better. Our menus changed and adapted and became portable for a lot of people, yeah, before receiving it pretty well. 

Ann: … changed menu for carry-out?

Chef Chung: Yeah, the carry-out is better, so we have more grab-and-go style of food.

Ann: … with COVID, with the carryout, as far as economic, did you make it or …

Chef Chung: We got some PPP loan and stuff like that so that helped in the beginning when there was less business in the beginning, right. And eventually, um obviously carry-out picked up. It was really good in the beginning and when we finally reopened completely for the indoor dining and outdoor dining, not only did we get more, uh, business indoor and outdoors, but the business continued to go on, I mean not as much as before but it still kept us pretty busy.

Ann: I think it’s going to change the landscape …

Chef Chung: Carry-out in general with all the apps, yeah. 

Chef Taylor Ponte’s Popular Pop-ups

Ann: Back to the pop-up pod that you set up, do you think that’s great for advertisement?

Chef Taylor: I think so. It kind of keeps you on the road. It’s a lot like musicians going from one place to one place and you have to have a following you know. It’s hard not having a consistent area to do the dinners and whatnot. But it also forces me to have new menus, come up with creative ideas, come up with how I can execute out of that kitchen. It’s great for marketing because it’s constantly changing in the world where we are looking at social media. People aren’t really wanting to watch like really, really long things. They kind of a like short quick bursts and get back to what they are doing. Oh, so they’re at this place this week and this place.

Ann: What’s your favorite stop? [That you’ve done a pop-up at.]

Chef Taylor: Um, we really love Esther’s. We have a great relationship with them. They used to be bartenders at our old restaurant. And we have a great relationship with them. And uh, kind of a like-minded culinarians-bartenders. We want to have a great ambience, a great time, and use products that we all support and are happy to stand by. And they use a lot of their own syrups and thing they’ve made from herbs … I support that a lot. I love their place for that.

Ann: But is it challenging in the fact that it’s a new pop-up place? Do you find yourself missing the items?

Chef Taylor: Oh, extremely. It’s like being, uh, a drag racer and driving a different car. You know? You don’t know if the stove is going to work, if it’s calibrated. If they have a hood/good system. Most we have to talk to them months out, investigate the kitchen, check how it works, what kind of foods I can execute. Do they have a table to put food on, a dishwasher? Do they have an ice machine, proper refrigeration? It keeps you on your toes.

Ann: You said the stoves have to be calibrated. Can you explain that to me?

Chef Taylor: Yes, have you ever used someone’s oven and it takes longer to like brown something or it cooks really really fast. So, it’s under/over super calibrated. You know if the oven’s at 500 degrees and you put a thermometer in and it’s at 250. You know. It’s crazy. If you think about it, how difficult cooking Thanksgiving dinner is. Imagine doing it in a kitchen you’ve never used before. It can be stressful. But, that’s what the experience is …

Vote for Graham Elliot

Ann: Why do you think mainstream America has taken so long to know and appreciate good food and cooking?

Chef Graham: Uh, because, if you look at it, everything was farm-based, then after the war, there was, you know, we created the freeway system. Food was able to get shipped from point A to point B. So all the ingredients were as generic as you could get right? Tomato, iceberg, lettuce, you know, piece of chicken breast, whatever. So that’s what people were born and raised eating.

 Ann: I see …

Chef Graham: And there was no internet, travel, etc., where you were seeing regions of food, so you basically were eating what was right there in front of you, you know. And now in the last 20 years with the world getting smaller, with the internet, with social media now, cooking shows, things like that, everybody has been exposed to it, you know. It’s kind of like with music. If you only listen to what’s on the radio and it’s like Adele, you know, the Weekend, and whatever genres. It all kind of sounds the same, but then you really were exposed to tons of different genres, it was like oh my god, this is incredible and now I know way more about music than I ever thought I would. So, you know, exposure it’s the biggest thing.

Ann: What would the average person find surprising about you?

Chef Graham: Um, my love of history and politics. It’s what I want to do …

Ann:  Oh so, is that your second life?

Chef Graham: I think so. I think that I was just saying that the planet’s 5-billion years old and if we are lucky we live to be like 80 or 100 and to be able to build a vision in a kitchen for cooks to get behind servers doing TV and having millions of people at home, uh, like your personality. Why limit that to making a menu and collecting? Growing up in the Navy, you know my dad was in the Navy, going to 15 schools. I feel like I can get along with people right away and build consensus and so yeah, I’d love to do something like that. 

Ann: You have any idea what direction, where to start yet?

Chef Graham: Um, well they say all politics is local, right? So, you know, probably running for city council. Yeah, but I love the executive idea, right? Not legislative. So eventually like a mayor. I think would be the dream job. 

See? Chefs — they’re just like us! Each of us have our own dreams and pathways to make them come true. There is one thing we all share, though, and that is the love of delicious food. Let me remind you to add Roy’s Ka’anapali to your bucket list, and when you find out the magic sauce used for the eggs and toast, share with us.  I’ve just added a return visit to my bucket list. If I find out first, I’ll be sure to share.  Aloha.

The post What’s Cooking at Roy’s Ka’anapali? Interview with Maui’s Top Chefs appeared first on Ann-Tran.

“Is December a good time to go?” Yes! Maui is a great place to spend December. But really, is there a bad time to visit Maui? I’ve visited quite a few times and I would have to say, “no.” In the spirit of aloha, I’d like to share some highlights with you.

Standing on Ceremony

Our flight arrived at night. The next morning, early at 6:15 a.m., I was blessed to participate in a purification and cleansing ceremony. When I met with the group for a Hi’uwai and E ala E ceremony, or ritual, I didn’t think too much about it and had no expectations. What did I know about traditional Hawaiian culture? I found it fascinating that Hi’uwai and E ala E are for when one feels unbalanced. I found it similar to my meditating in nature practice, so I was eager to include the ocean.

Ever since I read “The Miracle of Water” by Masaru Emoto, I feel at peace with the seas and have a better understanding of the power of water and its magical qualities. (Think about packing this book on your next transcontinental and/or transoceanic flight.)

“During the Hi’uwai, you dedicate time to thinking about your life, the people who came before you,” according to Mr. Naeloe, goes by the name Keppa, (short for lokepa).

Here are some Hi’uwai basics. First, we made our way into the water.  You can just get your toes wet, completely submerge your body, or somewhere in between. I chose only to get my feet wet. Then, we reunited on the shore, facing east and chanted E ala E until the sun came up. The sunrise represents the birth canal opening and is nature’s way of offering forgiveness, a new day, and a chance to reset one’s life’s path.

Did I feel different afterwards? Yes, but since I have a meditation practice, I’m very familiar with the sense of calm after a session of contemplation, especially in the presence of Mother Nature.

For those wanting to participate in the Hi’uwai and E ala E rituals, it’s best to inquire with a hotel’s concierge for assistance. These are genuine cultural experiences. I hope you enjoy them as much as I did.

Discovering How to Help Marine Life

Believe it or not, the Hawaiian Islands serve as a colander for all the trash of the North Pacific Basin. The water passes through and what remains is The Great Pacific Garbage Patch, a coil of floating debris bigger than Texas. Enter the Hawaii Wildlife Fund. Made up of volunteers from around the globe who not only collect the marine debris but use it to create art and for research purposes. According to their website, they remove an estimated 15-20 tons per year, mostly large bundles of net and line (many weighing over 1,000 pounds).

On my next visit to Maui, I want to participate in the Hawai‘i Nei Marine Debris Removal Project. So far, 369,393 pounds have been removed. Want to join me? Read this story and see all the good we can do together.

Celebrating Traditional Hawaiian Crafts & Culture

Maui isn’t just about chasing sunsets and rainbows. And neither am I. We’re a good fit, Maui and me. My first local experience was creating some Hawaii memories with Lei Po’o @TheWestinMaui and catching this dramatic sunset.

The Westin Maui Resort & Spa is committed to the community and keeping the traditional culture alive. There are lei making classes available at the property. Make sure to stop by and learn how to make your own leis from materials found right in your backyard! Almost any type of flowers, leaves, ferns, and so on may be used to make a lei. Take a peek at the lei-making lesson I took.

Where to Dine

Our welcome dinner with the Ka’anapali Beach Resort Association was at HuiHui Restaurant. Believe me, the pictures don’t do the food justice. The meal was out of this world (those words don’t do it justice either). Take a virtual tour. It’s the newest oceanside restaurant in the Ka’anapali Beach Resort Association and the setting is pretty spectacular. I think after your virtual tour, you’ll definitely want to dine here.  Those scrumptious lobster dumplings were my favorite. If you only have three nights in Maui, make the HuiHui a restaurant must. I love their cocktails and even went back the next day and ordered a chocolate espresso martini.

For our last three nights, we stayed in a luxury condominium at Ka’anapali Alii. The General Manager and his team prepared a BBQ cookout by the sea. I loved watching other families dine by the ocean as the Grill Master orchestrated their experiences, adding flavor with his special spices. A home cooked meal by the ocean — magical! The Grill Master will recommend how you can marinate your food, and I noticed he brought his own sauce to toss the salads. I like that you can use the fresh herbs grown on the property.

I thoroughly enjoyed the casual dinner and conversation with this fun group of new friends. If we had an extra night, I definitely would have revisited the BBQ by the sea with Grill Master Cromwell Baclay. Mahalo for taking the time out of your busy schedule to share a beautiful meal with us.

Our farewell dinner was at the Hula Grill. Here’s what I enjoyed: COCONUT SEAFOOD CHOWDER (lobster, shrimp, fresh fish, bok choy, shiitake mushrooms, peanuts, coconut cilantro broth) and WOOD GRILLED FISH (sauteed local vegetables, surfing goat cheese, aged balsamic, roasted red pepper romesco). I really can’t tell you which one to order. They were both excellent!

Interesting tidbit: Venison is a special dish served in many restaurants. On neighboring Molokai Island, deer overpopulation is a big problem as they have no natural predators. And there’s a beef shortage on the populated islands of Maui and Oahu. So, the chefs prepared venison on a few of the dinners we were hosted. It’s a win-win.  Although I passed on the venison (since Bambi and her mother visit me quite often at home), I hear it was quite good and has its own distinctive taste, similar to grilled pork.

Hale ʻĀ at @TheWestinMaui. The bartender makes a perfect Pina Colada. It is wonderful because the cocktail is quite punchy (meaning quite generous with the rum mix). You will only need to order one. I love their shrimp tacos!

Two words: Whalers Village. You have shopping and eating, not to mention stunning views of Moloka’I and Lana’i. The Mauka Food Court offers quick service/casual fare and finer fare and cocktails at one of the beachside upscale restaurants. The Whalers Village had Louis Vuitton, Johnny Was and Lilly Pulitzer to name a few shops. I don’t recall these shops from my last Maui visit.

Don’t want to forget to tell you about this great restaurant. Visit Paia Fish Market in nearby Lahaina before leaving town. I dined here last time and was glad to revisit again. Heads up! There is a constant line of customers.

Lastly, the Hyatt is a must for the fresh sushi and sunset views.

Here is a virtual tour of my luxury condo by the sea: Ka’anapali Alii (where we had the BBQ cookout). We also stayed in a two-bedroom condo. Someone asked which would I recommend. If you love a spacious “home away from home,” then the Ka’anapali Alii will be perfect. Our two-bedroom space with a lanai and master bedroom beach and garden view, costs about the same as a resort hotel room. You will need to check on availability when you book.

Insider Tips for Traveling to Maui

My flight back to reality was at 11:20 p.m., eastbound to Washington D.C. I stayed at the Ka’anapali  Beach Resort area the entire week. Even though we had a rental car, there was plenty to do at the resorts and only used the car to drive back to the airport.

Make sure to plan your dinner reservations one month ahead. Luckily Chef Gevin Utrillo arranged a reservation for us at @Japengo. Price is $$$$ but if you love sushi, it’s totally worth the splurge.

Thank you Shelley ツ and team for getting us on the @japengo list and, of course, for a week in paradise with perfect weather.  I love Maui.

Covid Notes

If you have been fully vaccinated OR have a negative PCR test, you may travel to Maui. The convenience of being fully vaccinated is not having to take any PCR test since I have had the booster.

Aloha!

The post The Best of Maui’s Ka’anapali Beach appeared first on Ann-Tran.

North Carolina Blooms All Year Long at Airlie Gardens

Airlie Gardens, as we know it today, had its origin in a 640-acre land grant to the Ogden Brothers from King George II in 1735. Pembroke and Sarah Jones purchased the property in 1884 and began cultivating the grounds. Fast forward to 1999, when a consortium of public and private organizations bought and began restoration on 67 acres of space.

The website uses the phrase “A Century of Gardens by the Sea,” and that only hints at the variety of gardens waiting to be explored.  The website also instructs that all General Admissions tickets must be purchased in advance and online. However, I learned you can pick up your tickets at the Gift Shop. Be sure to stop by the Gift Shop, too. Lots of fun things there.

Be sure to hop on the seven-seater tram tour, it is extremely informative and included with the price of admission. I wouldn’t have learned nearly as much if I had done a self-guided one. Docent led tours also are available, and it’s best to make your reservation two weeks in advance.

Y’owl Gotta See This

Wise up! “It’s Owl Good” is the Airlie Gardens art exhibit for 2021 running through December. There are 10 fiberglass owls created by 10 different artists throughout the gardens. The owls are big and colorful, so it isn’t difficult to spot them. I like that the garden has an annual exhibit, and the theme changes each year.

Join the Holiday Tradition

Airlie Gardens really sparkles in the holiday season. The lights and sounds mixed with festive greenery create the celebratory Enchanted Airlie each year. Guests are encouraged to take the self-guided walk to take in as much holiday cheer as they can. The dates are Nov. 26 and 27 along with Dec. 3 to 22. Tickets sell out in advance, buy them as soon as you can.

Springing into Color

A heart of gold — that’s how I feel about Airlie Gardens and this statuary. (Notice how my dress complements the colors beautifully.) I marked my calendar for a spring visit, when more than 60,000 tulips and 75,000 azaleas are to be in bloom between March 1 and April 15. A definite must visit for 2022. I’ll call ahead to ensure best viewing opportunities.

There’s a Sculpture Garden, Too

A garden of flora is beautiful and so are sculpture gardens, especially Minnie Evans Sculpture Garden. Minnie worked as a garden gatekeeper from 1949 through 1974, when she created many pieces. The sign at Airlie describes her work with the inscription saying, “Spiritual images, bright colors, symmetry, flowers, and varied shades of green dominate her work.” The Bottle Chapel by Virginia Wright-Frierson was completed in 2005 to represent Minnie’s painting and other artists’ works to complete the sculpture garden.

Since You Asked, This is My Favorite Garden

I can see why the Pergola Garden is the most popular location for weddings and photo shoots. It is equally romantic and beautiful — seasonal blooms, the jasmine vine-laden pergola, and a four-tiered fountain with a lake in the background. Made of tabby (a mixture of concrete and crushed oyster shells), the pergola was built at the request of Sarah Jones in the early 1900s.

Parties, Balls, and Bashes

Given the gorgeous grounds, it’s no surprise that Airlie Gardens has a long history of entertaining and celebrations. According to its website, one tradition dates to 1905 and that is the extravagant oyster roasts, a local dish. The oyster roasts went silent for some years but they were brought back in 2000 and serve as a fundraiser for educational programs.

Flutter Over to the Butterfly House

The Butterfly House is 2,700-square feet of native North Carolina Rhopalocera living space. These native species — including Monarch, Gulf Fritillary, Common Buckeye, and Black Swallowtail, among others — fly around the open-air house. Time your visit, as the Butterfly House is open seasonally from mid-May through the warmer fall months. The entrance fee is included in the General Admission. You can also experience the joy of Butterfly Releases with an educator to learn about the butterfly life cycles and different types of butterflies that come out each week.

As I mentioned, I hope to catch the Spring bloom next year. If you want to visit this area in the Fall, you can still set your eyes on the historic Airlie Oak and enjoy the calming, pristine beauty of the garden. I recently visited and Autumn is a beautiful time to visit. You can find my find my top recommendations for Fall activities to inspire your visit here.

Learn more about Wrightsville Beach and Wilmington here. Let us know what you think and share a picture of what you saw. See you on the road.

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The town of Wrightsville Beach was named one of the “The Last Best American Beach Towns” and “World’s 20 Best Surf Towns” by National Geographic Magazine. I can see why, as it is picturesque and not too crowded. There’s a variety of different looks to the waterways in Wrightsville Beach. Along with the sweeping stretches of ocean, the picturesque harbors, waterways and grassy marshes make for an ever-changing landscape.

I found Wrightsville Beach to be a pleasing, non-commercialized stretch of nature where one can tune into its natural awesomeness. This open, mostly residential beach town has a casual vibe and lots to keep you busy. If you need groceries or a favorite coffee shop, the modern world is conveniently close by, just a short drive over the bridge and only a few minutes away you have the coastal city of Wilmington, NC.

There are so many activities in this seaside town. I need to make a return visit. My advice to you is make the most of your time (are getaways ever long enough?) with the info available via the Visitor’s Bureau. The handy Events Tab is a definite advantage to planning. There are so many activities, concerts and tournaments, just to name a few. I collaborated with this great organization and can’t recommend their services enough.

Fall for Southern Beach Cuisine

A fantastic ocean dining setting can be had at the Oceanic. The Oceanic may be one the best beach pier restaurants I’ve ever seen with seating right above the breaking waves. It’s quite spacious, too, and the cool sea breeze keeps everyone comfortable. Need more convincing? There’s great live music seasonally.

Early each morning you will find a yoga class in session. The day I visited, I watched the restaurant staff set up for a sunset wedding. One of many perfect venues to celebrate your special day in Wrightsville Beach. There are so many romantic spots in this beach town so it’s perfect for a couples’ getaway.

Check out the restaurant row along the Intercoastal Waterway next to the Eastwood Road bridge. (Did you know the Intracoastal Waterway snakes 3,000 miles from Boston around the tip of Florida ending in Brownsville, Texas?) Wrightsville Beach is uncrowded, but if you are planning to dine on a weekend, make sure to book your reservations. Some restaurants will not take reservations, so be sure to arrive early and get on the waiting list. I visited the Fish House Grill and the wait was 30 minutes, not too bad because waits here and other places can be as long as two hours. Well, you know a view of the water is always premium.

My favorite eats were at Shark Bar & Kitchen. I ate there twice and loved their fish and shrimp tacos and delicious margaritas. There is not a view of the water, but you can always get your scenery fix with a scoop of ice cream at Access 16 Beach Shoppe at Johnnie Mercer’s Fishing Pier.

After dining, catch the sunset, enjoy the nature show or watch the surfers dance with the waves. The ocean is always a good idea because you can get your steps in with Mother Nature, and the sand gives the legs an extra challenge.

The ocean water is warm and clean here, and the Wrightsville Beach municipality keeps the sand and surroundings super clean. I like that the beach was not overly commercialized with shops. I hope it stays that way. There are beautiful homes both along the beach and harbor.

Water is the Main Activity

I dream of gliding on the water as I watch the surfers perform their magic. Surf lessons are available, though I think I’ll keep this just a dream for now.

If surfing doesn’t call your name, there are so many other water activities to partake in, whether solo or in a group. For starters, there’s paddleboarding, kayaking, learning to sail, motor boating, harbor cruises, water skiing and boogie boarding.

A sunset cruise is always a good idea, and we booked a cruise with the Blockade Runner’s Surf to Sound Adventure. There is a small beach and dock across from the Blockade Runner — you can’t miss it. The property has a beautiful large green space and a serene, uncrowded beachfront.

Wait, There’s More!

Wrightsville Beach’s activities aren’t all wet. Check out the Wrightsville Beach Museum. Housed in an early 1900s cottage, the museum offers a look into coastal living during the time of the Great Depression. There’s also an impressive seashell collection and a model of the town circa 1910. Entry to and parking at the museum are free. Always a good idea to check days and hours of operation during these mask-wearing times.

If total relaxation is more your style, visit one of the salons or day spas for a massage or a facial. What the heck, go for a total makeover with a new hair color and cut. Of course, there’s nothing more relaxing than sitting on the sand and being hypnotized by the rhythm of the endless waves.

Fall is the New Summer, but with Less Crowds

Any season is a good season to spend time in Wrightsville Beach. Autumn, however, can’t be beat. Maybe the serenity feels doubled after the partying summer crowds depart. Maybe it’s the introspection the change in calendar brings. Maybe it’s the gracious southern hospitality.

Whatever the reasons, you’ll want to visit Wrightsville Beach sooner rather than later. Find even more reasons to go here. Get planning and get packing. Wrightsville Beach is your 2021 fall destination.

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I observed large group tours and private walking tours were in abundance. Perhaps on the next visit, I’ll try a private tour. A carriage ride through the historic downtown seems romantic, however, I saw one horse carrying 17 people in 95°F heat. I will pass on the animal abuse here. #justsayneigh

The Charms of Charleston in 48 Hours

I spent less than 48 hours in this charmer of a town. And I do declare, “I would be happy to visit here over and over and over!” I love the architecture and all the cute alleyways and perfectly manicured gardens. And the charm — like the Spanish Moss, it is everywhere, hugging Charleston and its visitors 24/7.

What to Do in Charleston, SC?

Here is the required shot of a visitor (me in a white summer frock!) on a path lined with trees dripping with Spanish moss. This was taken at Charleston Waterfront Park. The photo has not been altered … the scenery is that pretty. It’s cool under the Spanish Moss.

Looking Into the Four Red Doors

Gorgeous storefront, right? It’s not alone! Charleston’s streets are filled with artfully arranged exteriors. Each one beckoning to some inside and poke around. (Careful not to enter a residence!)

Follow the Red Brick Everything

Red brick is another symbol of Southern graciousness. Not only is it pleasing to the eye, but it is durable, lasts for generations, and masonry is a highly honed skill requiring patience and accuracy.

Southern Blues in Charleston

I think the best way to uncover a city’s soul is on foot. That’s how I came upon this blue beauty. Simple and eye-popping at the same time.

Anchors aweigh!

This nautical design accent fits perfectly with the building’s “tabby” construction material. Tabby is made from burnt oyster shells mixed with water, ash, and sand. It was used by early settlers along the southern eastern coast.

Rainbow Row

Those pastel-painted structures I mentioned earlier? This photo is worth at least 5,000 words. Would you call the hue on the left ecru or beige? Maybe biscuit because we’re in the South? Second to left, I’d call cream, or maybe linen or sand. What do you think? Considered a slum area following the Civil War, Rainbow Row, as this area now is called, began growing its colors in the early 1900s thanks to Susan Pringle Frost, who bought six of these homes and founded the Society for the Preservation of Old Dwellings, which is now known as the Preservation Society of Charleston. Concurrently, another woman, name unknown, bought and began renovating about 100 homes and painted them pastel pink. More fascinating history is available at Rainbow Row.

A Flair for the Modern, too

Don’t think Charleston’s design is all magnolia and mint julep inspired. This edifice reveals a modern sensibility that blends perfectly into the town’s traditional look. Notice the exposed brick layered with the concrete and lath.

Breakfast is the Most Important Meal of the Day

Millers All Day celebrates local eats, and breakfast is served all day. After all, it’s the most important meal of the day. Millers is a delightful place with its gleaming white décor and blue plate specials of Southern Hospitality. I enjoyed chatting with the bartender, who recommended the Blackberry Bellini cocktail. Definitely include Millers All Day when visiting Charleston and be sure to make reservations for the restaurant as far in advance as you can. This popular place books up over a month in advance! Try your luck at popping in for the Blackberry Bellini.

Whoa! — Hold Your Horses — NOT Charming

The clip-clop of horses on the Charleston streets is part of the area’s charm. And a carriage ride is a must-do for some visitors. It’s not uncommon to see horse stables in the city limits. That was fun and different. Equine sightings are common in New York City’s Central Park and mounted rangers or police patrol other towns and cities. Still, I found a special sweetness to Charleston’s horses and stables.

As you may well know, I am committed to responsible travel. Participating in this kind of activity went against my grain and thought it best to help prevent it. Has something upset you on your travels? Feel free to share. We all can learn from it.

If you have been to Charleston or when you do go, let us know what your favorite color of building is. And if you tried the Blackberry Bellini. Have a great trip! See you on the road.

The post Discover Charleston, SC: All the Charm and Colors appeared first on Ann-Tran.

Some Island History

In 1803 Catharine Greene, widow of Revolutionary War hero Gen. Nathanael Greene, built Dungeness, a four-story “tabby” mansion. A century later, Pittsburgh industrialist Thomas Carnegie and his wife Lucy purchased the property and built their own mansion, which they also called Dungeness. Tabby refers to the building material made of sand, crushed seashells, water, and ash. The shells are visible on the exterior.        

Reaching Cumberland Island

A concessioner-operated passenger ferry serves the island from the visitor center in Saint Marys, Georgia. The 7-mile ride takes about 45 minutes, and it is the only way to reach Cumberland Island. (Yes, technically, one could swim.) Be advised, the ferry does not carry cars, kayaks, or pets. Ferry schedules of operation change seasonably. Make sure to take bottled water on the boat. Even better, freeze your bottled waters the night before for cold water later.

Don’t Miss This Walk 

The Southend loop is a combination of trails, roadways, and boardwalks that will take you through several of the main ecosystems and the largest historic district on the island. You can hike the loop either direction depending on the wind (you want the wind at your back on the beach).

Allow 3 to 4 hours for the Southend Loop walk meandering through the natural and cultural landscape of the island.

All beach crossings are signed and marked with a black and white pole. Stay on the paths and use boardwalks. You will be pleasantly surprised at how many shaded areas are on the hike through the park.

Wild Horses Couldn’t Stay Away

Walking off the Dungeness Wharf dock, I was excited to see Cumberland Island’s famed wild horses grazing in a field. We took tons of photos because I thought, perhaps, these were all the horses we would be lucky enough to see.

As we hiked forward under the southern live oaks draped with Spanish moss, we spotted another pony on the trail. But upon spotting the Dungeness Ruins ahead, there were about 25 horses grazing.

They were so beautiful in those rich green fields. We hung around the Dungeness area for a good hour to get videos and pictures. We were told to stay two bus lengths away from the animals, as feral equines can be quite feisty, so, of course, we stayed far away. Near the ruins, though, the horses would come and walk alongside me and were quite friendly. I even had two young ponies kissy-face right in front of me.

I hope you have the opportunity to visit Cumberland Island National Seashore. It truly is a national treasure. What national parks are your favorites? You can research all the parks here. Hope our paths cross soon. Stay safe!

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Three Best Things to Experience in Atlanta: A True Garden of Delights

If your notion of Atlanta is based on the 1939 Academy Award Best Picture winner, Gone with the Wind, you are in for a big treat. Atlanta is sophisticated, vibrant, home to some of America’s iconic corporations (Coca-Cola, anyone?), and fabulous restaurants. The Big Peach also boasts provocative art installations and a must-see botanical garden.

Always a safe bet, let’s start with a bite to eat.

Not your garden variety restaurant

The Garden Room, a gem of a restaurant located at the St. Regis property/Buckhead Plaza, refers to its cuisine as New American. The Flaming Hot Cheeto Chicken dish is a perfect illustration. The food is delicious and the service first-class. The icing on the cake, as it were, at the Garden Room is the gorgeous setting.

The “garden” is a multi-colored floral motif. Wrought iron tables and chairs with flowered linens, and the burnished wood and the thick glass of the building complete the picture. It’s easy to see why the adjective gracious often is used to describe the southern lifestyle.

You will need to get reservations a month ahead of time, however, you can show up early and they will seat you at the bar or one of the tables. It may not be a VIP table, but you will still get a great view at any of the seats.

A picture is worth 1,000 words, so a video must equal 1 million. I ordered the Lobster Roll — Parker House roll, miso, sesame, and shiso — and my cocktail was the best. Love the little rubber duckie.

The Garden Room was so great, I returned, and I enjoyed both visits. On my second go-round I opted for the brunch, quite the treat. I highly recommend it.

Here’s the address: 88 West Paces Ferry Road NW, Atlanta.

Atlanta Botanical Garden is always in bloom

You’ve heard of the ancient Hanging Gardens of Babylon, right? I wonder if their wonder matches the 25-foot sculpture Earth Goddess, created by Mosaïcultures Internationales de Montréal. Truly awe-inspiring with her flowing locks and out-held hand spilling with water. Thankfully, Earth Goddess became part of the Garden’s permanent collection after the exhibition closed.

Here’s a tip: During Garden Lights, Holiday Nights, Earth Goddess becomes an Ice Goddess when her hair shines bright thanks to the thousands of lights crowning her. The 2021 Garden Lights, Holiday Nights opens Nov. 18, and tickets go on sale Oct. 1. Would love to see that. I hope you can see it, too.

For you IGers, make sure to bring a second outfit or two for a wardrobe change. There are many photo ops. Be prepared to walk. (Read: comfy walking shoes.) For all visitors, do order a cocktail while there and enjoy the gorgeous peaceful view. I think a Fall visit will be a treat since they will be adding new gardens to their venue.

I purchased a one-day pass, but I should have bought a seasonal ticket since I will be back in July. Although the ticket is time stamped, they will still let you in. Tickets can be purchased online, and I suggest the earlier the better. Atlanta Botanical Garden Tickets.

Atlantic Station Mall for the Art Installations

Looking for some fun photo ops at a mall? I went shopping and found a fun activity for me and my cousin. I am not sure if it was fun for him, but he was the photographer for me at this location. I think he enjoyed it. Atlantic Station Mall is a mixed-use area of commercial and residential buildings. The Millennium Gate Museum and the Robert C. Williams Paper Museum are also part of the neighborhood.

Dining pleasures abound in Atlanta

If you are looking for Italian food recommendations, I gotcha covered. Who knew there would be so much excellent Italian food in Atlanta? Abbondanza!

Forza Storico: I like their patio dining, make sure to make reservations weeks ahead. My bar seat provided a perfect view for people watching. Great conversations with the bartenders, too. (Oh, that southern charm.) Forza Storica is in the Westside Provisions District.

Campagnolo Restaurant + Bar: I scored an outdoor dining spot. Love the pace and the food was exceptional. Campagnolo Restaurant + Bar is on Piedmont Avenue NE in Atlanta.

Bellina Alimentari: Along with the fine dining, I enjoyed some great shopping, too. The to-go meals are popular, maybe I can try one on my next visit. Bellina Alimentari is in Ponce City Market.

I am heading back to Atlanta in July and will be sure to update you with new dining finds, adding two speakeasy spots to my itinerary.  Stay tuned …

And the journeys will continue

Atlanta was the perfect destination to ease back into post-COVID traveling. Not too far, lots to see and do with plenty of delicious food. Plus, I was with family. Like I wrote earlier, the actual travel was pretty much the same other than the masks.

How are your travel plans shaping up? Where are you headed? Is your passport up to date? Vaccination card handy? There are a lot of bargains out there, make sure you are ready to take advantage.

Stay safe and travel well. See you soon!

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