iknowfuntravel

Across the Pond

2015-03-31T08:46:00.002-07:00

The Llangollen Canal, Ellesmere, England to Horseshoe Falls, Wales

There is nothing that I like more than a challenge. When my husband told me he was getting tired of our usual vacation of sun, surf, and fun and wanted to do something "different", I set out on my quest to find the most different vacation I could. While this type of vacation is apparently quite common in England, for these Americans it was a breath of fresh, clean air.

Riding a canal boat was a completely new thought and experience for us, but I didn't hesitate. The boat itself looked easy to navigate and I'm not one to shy away from a new adventure. The boat looked a bit like the American campers and RVs we were more familiar with, except they were on water. There was a kitchen, two small (really small) bathrooms and place to sleep for all four of us. I wasn't daunted a bit by not having a daily hot shower (every other day and luke-warm proved good enough) and it wasn't too hard to generate our own electricity and heat (you have to travel for four hours to get enough juice for the heat at night). Plus, if other people have done it and lived through it, so can we. Thus, we had booked our flight and headed for a skip across the pond.

We started out a couple of days ahead of time because we wanted to look around a bit before boarding the boat. Because we had never been to the area before, I had no idea what I was doing and booked an inn a couple of hours farther away than I needed to. I'm so glad of that mistake, though, because we had a great time driving down winding country roads during what has to be the most beautiful time of year in England--the spring and lambing season. As an American, I've always wondered why lambs were associated with the Easter season. Now, I know. Everywhere we looked there were daffodils and other flowers popping up and field after field of, I can't even begin to impress upon how many there were, honest-to-goodness lambs frolicking in the fields. Not running or standing, but frolicking an jumping in pure joy. I must have taken a thousand pictures and the sight of them was so hilarious. While it did rain almost every day, it was a drizzle and the cool, damp air didn't bother us a bit.

It was quite a change from our typical tropical locations. When people ask me about the most amazing place we've ever been or the most amazing thing we've ever done, I have to answer, "Wales and England in spring on a canal boat". I loved every moment and have plans to go back next year on a different trail. The trail we took was supposed to be the most scenic and I would have to agree. Daily there were pinch-myself moments--moments where we saw things so beautiful I had to pinch myself to make sure it was real. The old-fashioned canals intersect and weave throughout England and my goal is to see as many of them as I can.

There's so much to see and do that you can't possibly take all of it on one trip, but we sure made a good trip. Here are the highlights of our trip:

Things to See and Do and Eat:

There was so much to see and do everywhere we went. We honestly hadn't planned a bit of it ahead of time since I didn't know exactly where our travels would take us. Most, if not all of the places we visited had little or no advertising, certainly not like we do in the States so almost all of our trip was happy accidents and discoveries. Of course, that always makes for the best vacations.

On our first night in Wales, we stayed at the Cain Valley Inn at Llanfyllin, Wales. The drive there was so beautiful and the area is known for its stunning scenic activities like Lake Vyrnwy, Powys Castle, and Llanrhaedr Waterfall. The town itself is more like a little village with quaint and rustic pubs. On the cold, rainy evening, relaxing in the pub downstairs while getting to know the locals was great fun, as was walking around and enjoying the sites. Dinner was delicious and the ales were cold. It was our first introduction to pints and I enjoyed the meeting. Breakfast was a full spread--a full English breakfast in every sense of the word with beans, bacon (more like our version of country ham), fried tomatoes, and fried toast, which I'd never had before. Delicious, every bite!
After that, we had to backtrack to get to the boat dock location, but the gorgeous drive softened any irritation. The boat leaves from the charming village of Ellesmere, England. Ellesmere is known as the "Lake District of Shropshire" because of the charming mere, or lake, close to the town. The mere is lovely and there are a lot of footpaths that run alongside the canal that makes for lovely afternoon walks. There are shops and restaurants galore in this small village and you won't for a second think you're anywhere but England. The thatched roofs of the cottages, tiny winding streets, and plethora of pubs make this a unique experience. We found a fun shop called a "cat rescue" which is apparently like an American rummage shop with all proceeds to benefit a local cat shelter. Wandering around the streets made for a pleasant end, and beginning, to our trip. The best place to eat in town is definitely at the Black Lion Hotel. It's an easy walk from the dock and the food was simply amazing. If you're expecting pub food, you'll be disappointed. While we did tarry a bit in the pub, we also went to the dining room for a full dinner. We had a delicious time gnoshing on Glamorgan sausages, Shropshire blue cheese, jacket potatoes filled with chili and beans and even saved room for "'sticky toffee", my new favorite dessert.
Our first night out wasn't very exciting--at least to read about. It took us a bit to figure out how the boat worked and ran and we spent most of the afternoon trolling along the ancient towpaths, just in wonder about the surrounding farms. There is absolutely no better way to see the "real" England than along these towpaths and canal channels. We stopped for the night at the first real available sign of active civilization, in a tiny hamlet called Hindford, Oswestry, Shrophire at The Jack Mytton Inn. The inn was so much fun--it was full of locals and travelers sitting around a roaring fire and enjoying some pints and laughs at the bar and pub. We learned our table wouldn't be ready for two hours and while that might have caused consternation in the US, in England it was just enough time to get to know our fellow travelers. We had an amazing time with several colorful characters, including the pub owner, chatting over our pints and trying to answer his riddles. The food was nothing short of gourmet--no pub fare here! The onion thyme soup was more like a thick warm chowder. We also enjoyed fish and chips, steak and ale pie and the local sausages which was so finely ground it didn't even compare to a US version. The food was so amazing we also stopped here on our way back to town
Our first full day out brought us to the charming village of Chirk. The dock master told us to make a point of stopping here and I'm so glad we did. It didn't look like much from the water, but there was so much to see and do. The walk to the town is very short and the view from the docking area so picturesque. My favorite part was walking in the stores and buying things we can't in the US. The florist had flowers she had just picked up in Manchester, which had just arrived from Holland and the butcher's had an amazing assortment of meat pies. While you're there, make sure to stop in at the local church. For a small donation, you can wander around and the inside is worthy of a museum. We made sure to buy and try several. We ate, more than once, at the Tea Rooms, located just downtown in an adorable thatched building. There, you're served an entire bowl of American coffee to go with the full breakfast--a whole, roasted tomato; a sausage (more like our version of a brat); ham; crock of beans; sautéed mushrooms; hash browns; and black pudding. They have pages and pages of tea choices including a hand-made "wedding coronation" tea specially created for the Duke and Duchess's 2011 wedding. It was beautiful and delicious! They also have high tea and afternoon tea, which consisted of tea with cram and scones with clotted cream and black currant jam. And, of course, my new favorite--the sticky toffee pudding. After that full breakfast, you'll have plenty of energy to walk the one mile to Chirk Castle. The castle is over 700 years old and full of fascinating history. It sits up on a hill and is in amazing shape. The owner still lives in part of the castle and you get an amazing tour of the place. We were lucky enough to be there when an art show was going on and it was really interesting how they incorporated parts of the castle into the art. There are history re-enactors scattered around and they are happy to let you practice with the swords. There are a lot of buildings to go through and it's easy to spend an entire day here. If you happen to get hungry, make sure to try the tea room. It's full of yummy drinks and sandwiches. If you're looking for dinner, you'll be hard pressed to do better than The Hand Hotel. There are a few others, but this inn and pub is located right downtown and the food was great. We arrived on the night of a local Mason's meeting and had a great time sitting and chatting with them. Most of them were local farmers and they regaled us with hilarious stories the whole time. I had read before I went to England that residents were stand-offish. Not a bit true--everyone we met was so friendly and so funny. And, the food at The Hand Hotel was so good. We had the mushroom, spinach and brie wellington and the fisherman's' pie. Everything was so good and sitting by the fire in the cozy dining room was a perfect night. If you're braver than me, you might want to try something more interesting on their menu, like the belly pork and braised pig's cheek with black pudding mash or the pigeon breast. My companions stuck with the good old stand-by, fish and chips.
While we were at Chirk, we decided to take a break for the day and ride the train in to Chester. The train depot is a short walk from the town and riding into Chester is worth a day off your trip. Chester is a lovely and walkable city, and a very cheap day! The town publishes a walkabout map and guide that you can pick up practically anywhere (stop at the Visitor Information Center for more information) and the town history is absolutely fascinating. We saw churches from 900 AD, the oldest surviving shop front in Britain, various museums, a castle, a medieval gate and church, Roman gardens and the remnants of Roman Colonnades and amphitheaters, towers, clocks and more. The whole thing is walkable within a day and there are plenty of restaurants and shops along the way. We ate at Old Queen's Head, a tavern and pub centrally located, and had a delicious late lunch of cream of mushroom soup, a cheese and onion sandwich, bangers and mash is a Yorkshire pud with mushy peas, washed down with cold cider from the tap. It's a great day and be sure not miss this experience.
The next part of our trip was jaw-dropping, mouth-watering, bucket-list worthy in every way. The Pontcysyllte Aqueduct is a World Heritage Site and of the most beautiful and inspiring architectural feats I have ever seen. On the canal, you'll be carried along the waters of the River Dee looking 120 down into the valley below for over 1000 feet. Time just seems to slow down as you look into those beautiful British valleys beyond. It has been called "the stream in the sky" and the view from below is just as awesome making this the most beautiful of all the canal routes in England, or so we were told. After you cross it, be sure to stop on the other side and walk around for a big. You'll get spectacular views of the Dee Valley and the Vale of Llangollen. While there, be sure to stop at the Telford Inn. The food is traditional pub fare and the fish and chips quite good, but the wait staff is the best part. We were in stitches the whole night from their stories. This is what gave us the true understanding of the beauty and fun of an English pub: after venturing about in cold and drizzly weather, walking into a warm pub with a blazing fire and sharing stories and laughs with fellow life travelers.
The end of the tour into Wales was quite definitely the best. The views were the most gorgeous; the walking paths winding and picturesque and the people walking along our boat so friendly; the limestone cliffs towering above us made me feel as if I were in another century. Many people ask me the most beautiful place I've ever seen on my travels and this small speck of heaven is it. Words truly cannot describe the majesty of Wales. There was ample room at Llangollen Wharf to stay for an extended time, but we were told this is not true in the summer season, so be sure to make alternate plans if you're going during warm weather. In the spring, we only had a few neighbors and loved spending the night in such a lovely and fun town. There's so much to do in Llangollen. Walking over the Bishop Trevor Bridge into the town is a short trip and the town itself has so much shopping, streets full of unique stores and restaurants. There is plenty to do within walking distance including a Motor Museum, Plas Newydd, the Llangollen Railway and a horse-drawn carriage along the canal to Horseshoe Falls. While you're in town, be sure to stop in at James Bailey's Delicatessen and try the Welsh Oggies (a pasty with lamb, carrots, potatoes, peas, onions, mint sauce and red currant jelly)--Wow! We also tried the Naughty Poacher (because who doesn't love that name) which consisted of venison, rabbit and pheasant with black currant jelly made in a jug of port. Naughty indeed. We tried two restaurants, The Sun Trevor, a delightful pub with a jolly good breakfast and lunch and the Corn Mill, a restored 18th century mill with gourmet dining and million dollar views.
The end of the line on the Llangollen canal trip is, in reality, just the half-way point. If you didn't have time to try all these things on your first trip, try again on your way back.

Chattanooga Choo Choo

2015-02-04T17:12:00.001-08:00

A Stop in the Past

"Pardon me boy, is that the Chattanooga Choo Choo?

Track twenty nine, boy you can gimme a shine

I can afford to board a Chattanooga Choo Choo

I've got my fare and just a trifle to spare

You leave the Pennsylvania station 'bout a quarter to four

Read a magazine and then you're in Baltimore

Dinner in the diner, nothing could be finer

Than to have your ham 'n' eggs in Carolina

When you hear the whistle blowin' eight to the bar

Then you know that Tennessee is not very far

Shovel all the coal in, gotta keep it rollin'

Woo, woo, Chattanooga, there you are

There's gonna be a certain party at the station

Satin and lace, I used to call funny face

She's gonna cry until I tell her that I'll never roam"

I'm sure everyone has heard snippets of that song from long ago. If not, then surely everyone has head of the Chattanooga Choo Choo. I thought the Choo Choo, like that song from long ago, was in the past, but the Chattanooga Choo is alive and well and roaring into the modern ages as a themed hotel in downtown Chattanooga, Tennessee.

Chattanooga is the perfect blend of old-world charm and modern amenities, with first-class museums, quaint restaurants, and everything else a visitor could want. No matter the age or inclination, you're guaranteed to find it here.

Where To Stay:

I am sure there are plenty of nice hotels and beds and breakfasts in the area, and these are bound to be more luxurious than my recommendation. But, really, what can compete with the Chattanooga Choo Choo? The old railroad yard and rail cars have been turned into a unique hotel, the most interesting and delightful place I've ever rested my head. It is listed in the prestigious Historic Hotels list, but the Victorian train cars and gorgeous grounds should enough to convince you to stay. I have never slept aboard a train car before and didn't know what to expect, but the opulence truly blew me away. We had one half of a train car all to ourselves, with a huge luxusious bed, a period quaint bathroom, and all the ambiance one would expect. If I'd never left the room the entire trip, I would still have called this the best getaway ever. The Terminal is still amazing to look at and don't pass up the chance to eat in the restaurant. Sitting in the Gardens Restaurant where yesterday's travelers rushed to catch a train, while staring at the legendary Chattanooga Choo Choo was "bucket list" worthy. The terminal has been remade into a charming restaurant with cast-iron chairs and tables overlooking the tracks and that famous Engine 29 with 1930s music playing in the background. I highly recommend a skillet--full of your choices of toppings and covered with eggs and cheese--as well as the pecan waffle. For more information, see the Chattanooga Choo Choo website.

Things to See and Do:

No visit to Chattanooga is complete without a trip up Lookout Mountain. It's hard to decide how best to get to the top. One form of transportation is the Incline Railway, "The World's Steepest Passenger Railway". Grab your tickets at St. Elmo's Station and get ready for a hair-raising ride. Unbelievably, the Railway has been in operation since 1895 and the gift shop has pictures to prove it, along with some fascinating historic pictures of the entire area. The ride takes about 15 minutes and it about one mile long. From the top, you can take a short walk to look at the million dollar homes in the area and a few short blocks away is Point Park, a National Park and site of the "Battle of the Clouds", an 1863 Civil War battle. The Chickamauge and Chattanoog Military Park, also known as Point Park, does have an entry fee but it is well worth the price to walk those historic footsteps and to look over the entire valley below. The adjacent museum will give visitors a great insight into why this area was so important and so famous. For more information, visit Incline Railway Up Lookout Mountain.
While you're on the mountain, there's plenty to see. Next up is geographic and botanical wonder, as stated on their brochure. You've probably seen the signs--the red barns along endless Southern backways painted with "See Rock City". Ever wondered where it was and what the big deal is? Wonder no longer, your trip is finally at an end! Rock City began as one avid gardener's backyard dream. When her adoring husband entered into the mix, the backyard plan turned into an entire city made of rocks and plants with an overlook that scans seven states. Rock City truly has to be seen to be believed. Each meandering path will have you gasping with astonishment, no matter the season. For more information, see the website at Rock City.
No trip to the mountain is complete without looking underneath all that dirt. Ruby Falls is another testament of love from an adoring husband to his wife. When cave enthusiast Leo Lambert uncovered the amazing cave in the 1920s, he named it for his wife Ruby. The "falls" is for the waterfall deep inside the cave. I have been to dozens of caves (having written a book on caves), and can honestly say this one is my favorite. The beauty, the history, the amazing tour, the location--it all combines for an amazing attraction. For more information, see the website Ruby Falls.
It's a short trip from the top of the mountains to the bottom of the seas! Next, be sure to travel to downtown Chattanooga. Nestled right on the banks of the Tennessee River is the nicest aquarium I've ever been to, the Tennessee Aquarium. That's saying a lot--I have been to aquariums all across the country and this one was amazing. It's as much an art exhibit as it is a giant fish tank. There are two different buildings to explore--the River Journey and the Ocean Journey. I really expected to like the Ocean Journey better, sure that it would be full of wondrous things this Kentucky native could only marvel at. Yet, the River Journey was the one that blew me away. I saw animals and read about plant life I had no idea existed that was just as exotic as any sea creature could be. The River Journey building is actually like a river itself, winding through various ecosystems and creatures that were just dazzling. My favorite exhibit had to be the sea dragons, those tiny fragile seahorses that seem too delicate to be alive. It felt a bit like I was in a fantasy, walking through and watching them swim and cavort. With over 12,000 creatures to see, it took an entire afternoon to look at them all and we only left because the place was closing! The aquarium also links to an IMAX 3D, so be sure to take advantage of the cheaper ticket price when visiting both. For more information, visit Tennessee Aquarium.

Places To Eat:

No Southern food for this Kentucky girl! Instead, we traveled to the Brewhaus Brew Pub, a German-American gastro pub with an extensive ale and beer menu. The vibe was so fun and laid-back with a big indoor bar area and large outdoor patio area. We started with the Kraut Balls-bratwurst, cheese and sauerkraut all fried to a golden perfection and served with strong ale mustard. Next up was the Southern Style Obatzada--pimento cheese with sourdough and pickled beets. Honestly, the food was so good and we were so full we could have stopped there and called it a fine meal. But, I can't resist schnitzel and order it whenever and wherever I find it. This was not a disappointment. The Jager Schnitzer Weiner Art--a port schnitzel thin-fried and served with creamy mushroom gravy--was so good and was served with amazing German potato salad and a vinegar slaw. Just as much care went into the preparation of the side dishes as the main dish and everything was finger-licking good. For good measure, we had dessert of a flame-grilled brat and a Laughing Skull beer. Can't wait to return! For more information, visit Brewhaus Beer Pub.
The Terminal Brewhouse in downtown Chattanooga is more than just an ordinary pub. While they do have a healthy selection of brews and flights, their food is more in line with an eclectic gourmet restaurant. The Brewhouse Pot Roast Nachos were so unique--comprised of succulent pot roast meat and onions, all smothered in queso. The Fru Fru sandwich was also a delight--chicken and apple slices with Brie with a green bean casserole sidedish. No greasy pub food here! They also have some fun beer cocktails and the beer and Belgian mimosa was delicious. For more information, visit the website at Terminal Brewhouse.

Capital Fun!

2014-12-06T16:18:00.000-08:00

Indiana's First State Capitol

Corydon, Indiana doesn't get all the fame it deserves. Most of it goes to Indianapolis, the upstart capitol located in the northern part of the state. When people think of Corydon (if they do at all), they might say..."Wasn't that the first state capitol?" Yes, it was and if not for a little tomfoolery (well, who really knows why), the state capitol might be located in this sleepy little town in Southern Indiana.

Regardless, the original capitol has so much to offer. Think of Corydon as the country mouse and Indy as the city mouse. A city mouse is exciting for a bit, but for real down-home Indiana flavor, nothing will beat a visit to the country! Located just three hours from Indianapolis, Corydon is really part of the "Kentuckiana" area--a mix of Louisville, KY and the surrounding counties in southern Indiana. It's a fairy short drive from anywhere in either state and definitely worth a trip. If you have an entire day, be sure to drive using the Ohio River Scenic Byway --it's a gorgeous drive along the Ohio River during any season. For more information on the Byway, visit the website Ohio River Scenic Byway.

Corydon has a lot to gloat about, besides being the original capitol. It is the home to one of the oldest county fairs; there is the annual Halloween parade (another oldest in the nation); it's home to the only civil war battle in Indiana; and, I'm pretty sure it's the nation's capitol for popcorn production. If it's not, it should be! While Corydon seems a sleepy little town, there is plenty to do and one day won't begin to touch it. Try a weekend, or two, and you just might scratch the surface of this little town gem.

While in Corydon, be sure to check out these places:

What To Do:

Start with a trip to where all this history began, the Indiana State Museum State Capitol. The 1800's limestone building is worth the ticket price and is beautifully restored inside. If you come during the holiday season, you can get a picture taken with Santa right beside the old stone fireplace. During Halloween season, the entire square opens up to a haunted history tour that is big on the 'wicked' history of some past Corydon residents, called Unsavory Past. While walking around the square, be sure to check out some other notable historic buildings, like the Governor's Headquarters (named for William Hendricks, Indiana's second governor) and the First State Office Building, which is still being faithfully restored. Check out the Indiana State Museum website for more information.
If you're a Civil War fan, you have to check out the small battlefield and museum, located about 1/2 mile out of town. This little known battle is a source of pride for the residents and the battlefield has been undergoing renovations. The Battle of Corydon Civil War Museum is located at 203 North Capitol Avenue, Corydon, IN. Call 812-736-0985 for more information or see their website at Battle of Corydon Memorial Park.
No trip to Corydon is complete without a tour of the caves. Harrison County, Indiana, has one of the largest cave systems in the United States, next to that of Mammoth Caves in Kentucky. Start your tour at the original, Squire Boone Caverns. Squire, and his more famous brother Daniel, Boone discovered the cave in 1790. Today, the property is home to a show cave, an historical village, and a zip line adventure. For more information, visit Squire Boone Caverns.
Indiana's newest cavern just opened in the last part of 2013 but is already generating a lot of buzz. Indiana Caverns is Indiana's longest show cave. In addition to a walking tour, you can also take a boat tour and see recently discovered ice age bones. For more information, visit Indiana Caverns.
If you're in the mood for some nightlife, Corydon can provide that, too! Corydon Jamboree is a cross between The Grand Ole Opry and Hee Haw--a whole lot of country with a bit of redneck fun. The Jamboree is open on Saturday nights with shows that are good for the whole family. For more information and to see a show schedule, visit the Corydon Jamboree website. If your tastes are a bit more theatrical, try the cutest little theater you'll ever share with about 40 strangers. Hayswood Theater packs a whole lot of drama into that small space and even though the venue is tiny, the talent is not. This is theater the way it should be--sitting close enough to the stage to see every expression on the actors' faces and being able to watch the piano player beating out the musical score. Most nights, for intermission, there is popcorn or cookies. Wonderful, home-town fun. For more information and to see a show schedule, visit the Hayswood Theater website.
If art is more your thing, Corydon also has that! Just downtown are three museums and working studios, within walking distance. This first is the Artisan Center, located just one street over from the square. The Artisan Center features local artists and has three galleries of work. Most artwork is for sale and the main gallery has rotating artists and works. For more information, see the Artisan Center website. Zimmerman Art Glass is local legend in the Corydon area, a family affair that creates incredible works of blown glass in a small studio. There are pieces to purchase, but patrons can also order unique works of art while watching glass-blowers at work. Be sure to call 812-738-2206 for times and hours as this is a family studio. If hands-on art is more your thing, be sure to visit White Cloud Window stained art studio. At White Cloud, you can either shop the extensive gallery or you can schedule your own stained art studio time and create a masterpiece to match your personality. Visit the White Cloud website form ore information.
If you decide to visit in the growing season, there are plenty of family-owned farms in the area. In the summer, a must-do is picking blueberries straight from the bush at Bryant's Blueberry Farms. Be sure to get there early as the place gets absolutely packed. And, be sure to check the Bryant's Blueberries website as they are closed some days due to ripening of the berries and picking shortages. There is nothing more delicious than blueberry muffins or a pie you picked yourself. Hot, but fun, work! In the fall, many local farms offer corn mazes, pumpkin patches and "family" friendly activities. One of my favorites is Deere Farm, located in nearby Lanesville. Check their website for year-round activities and events at Deere Farm.
Harrison County is home to five different wineries! Each one is unique and a treat and you could spend a full day just taking a wine drive in the area. All the wineries listed do complimentary tastings. The winery with the prettiest drive is definitely Best Vineyards in Elizabeth, Indiana. It's about 15 minutes outside of Corydon on winding country roads. Best has a full range of wines, from dry to sweet and often has special weekend events with music. My favorites are the Mango (super sweet) and the Blue Moon (just right!). For more information, see their website at Best Vineyards. After visiting Best, Turtle Run Winery is just a short drive away. Turtle Run is unique because they don't add any sugar to their wines and that purity really shows. Their labels are gorgeous and I haven't met a wine there I didn't just love. Still, if I had to pick, my favorites are Red My Mind, Crossed My Mind, and Lost My Mind . They often have special weekend events including music. Turtle Run was also named Indiana Farm Winery of the Year for 2014. For more information, visit their website at Turtle Run Winery. From there, keep on traveling to quaint, nearby Georgetown, Indiana. It's a short drive and worth it to stop at this still growing winery, Indian Creek Winery. My favorites here are Lily White and Cardinal Red. Indian Creek has a lovely outside sitting area and you can buy locally made artisan cheese for a nice afternoon snack. For more information, visit Indian Creek Winery. The newest winery on the block is Quibble Hill, located in nearby Depauw, Indiana. They have a full range of wines and often host special events. For more information, visit their website at Quibble Hill Winery. From there, make a full circle back to Corydon and stop at Scout Mountain Winery. Scout Mountain also offers a bed and breakfast (The Hideaway Bed and Breakfast) that is an entire farm house all to yourself! An absolute must try wine is the Apple Cherry--it is sinfully delicious and addictive. They often have special weekend events that include music and often food options. For more information, visit their website at Scout Mountain Wines.

Where to Eat:

It might be hard to believe a small Midwestern town could have authentic Italian, but that's the surprise of Alberto's on the Hill. As soon as you walk in the door of the strip mall restaurant, it's like you're transported to some small eatery in New York--Frank Sinatra is crooning on the speakers, the bartender nods you to a table, and the dark ambiance and delicious smells complete the picture. And, the food! Wow! So good! I was fortunate enough to go with three other people and, because they know me well, they all let me nosh off their plates. The chicken parmesan and eggplant parmesan were so delicious, but my entrée was the best of all--a lemon chicken fettuccini (the night's special). Alberto's is located at 1237 Edsel Lane, Corydon, Indiana, 47112. Phone number is (812)738-4900.
Corydon's newest restaurant is a welcome blessing--it's right on the square, within easy walking distance of all the quaint shops and the food is truly delightful. It's hard to find really good barbeque outside of the south, but Big D's Smoking Butt BBQ is doing it right. They have sandwiches and platters with your choice of pulled pork, brisket, chicken, smoked sausage and Memphis style rib dinners. Sides include BBQ beans, brisket chili, mac and cheese, fresh cut fries, collards, cole slaw, corn pudding, and corn bread. I am embarrassed to say I've had them all from stealing bites from friends' plates. They're all equally delicious. The bar has a nice selection of beer, too. The only negative is the really small space--it's almost always packed. Big D's is located at 101 Beaver St., Corydon, IN 47122. Phone is (812)725-8900.
Corydon is just all wine. You'll be happy to know they also have their very own brewery, complete with a delicious restaurant. Point Blank Brewery. This microbrewery has a healthy list of local, national, and even international brews. You could probably go there every day for a year and not drink the same thing twice. While that's a nice treat, the food is also up for the task. A wood-fired oven churns out delicious and unique pizzas and the sandwiches are delicious. My favorite item, however, is the Scotch eggs (hard to find elsewhere). Actually, now that I think of it, every item I've tried there has been delicious. They often have special events, like a monthly Beer 101 and weekly Trivia and game nights. Point Blank is located at 105 Beaver Street, Corydon, IN. Phone is 812-225-5141. For more information, visit the website at Point Blank Brewery.

North for Winter?

2014-02-15T13:19:00.000-08:00

Why Go South for Winter?

Most people I know head south for winter break, lured by sunshine and tropical winds. But, when you live in an area that hardly gets any snow, you have to look at vacations a little differently. Snow was calling my name this year! Snow and the promise of winter activities like sledding, skiing, and tubing. With nowhere close to have that kind of fun, my family packed up and made the short trip to Mishicot, Wisconsin.

Why Mishicot? You've probably never heard of it and before this vacation, neither had I! Truthfully, we picked it because it was on the 'thumb' of Wisconsin, and my mother-in-law told me she had visited this place decades earlier and that it was great fun. I needed no more encouragement than that. And, of course, mothers are always right. It was, indeed, great fun.

Things to See and Do:

Winter Fun.We went for outdoor winter fun and we found all we could use at Winter Park Recreation in Kewaunee County. What was so great was that this wasn't a huge ski resort, but a mom and pop operation catering to locals. It was a blast! We didn't waste any time and went snow tubing the very first night we arrived. Snow tubing at night is one of the highlights of my life experiences. I don't think I've ever had so much fun. Flinging myself down a snowy hill on a tube with the stars twinkling above and glittering snow all around. There were six runs and a hands-free tow rope that pulled me to the top over and over again--hours of fun for $6 a person. Skiing the next day was just as much fun--no crowds, just snow. Since this is a mom and pop location, you have to bring your own ski equipment but there is a small "lodge" available with snacks and hot chocolate. It's only open on the weekends and there are future plans to build a little ice rink. Too cute! For more information, visit Kewaunne County Promotions & Recreation Department.
Think the Great Lakes is only good in the summer? Think again. Right on the edges of Lake Michigan is the Wisconsin Maritime Museum in downtown Manitowoc. The museum is three floors of maritime history, in and around the Wisconsin area, focusing mainly on World War II. The museum has plenty of kid's exhibits, an entire floor dedicated to the sea-faring way of life in Wisconsin, and plenty of interactive exhibits. The best part, though, was the completely restored WWII submarine, the USS Cobia. A themed tour guide will take you through the ship, section by section, explaining how the seaman lived and worked on the submarine. Everything has been painstakingly restored, right down to the torpedoes and even the plates in the galley. It was an amazing experience. For more information, visit Wisconsin Maritime Museum at Manitowoc.
Ah, wine. Doesn't every good vacation have a wine tasting or two? Or, possibly even three if it is a good vacation? This one did. I have to say that this wine tasting will go down in history as the greatest of all time. Nearby Door County, Wisconsin, features a wine tour that will knock your socks off. It was a trolley winery tour. We were picked up at a local hotel and taken to three different wineries in the area where we wined, wined, wined. My favorite winery was Parallel 44 Vineyard and Winery. The wine was first rate and worth the whole drive to Wisconsin itself. We bought a case and I am saving each one, savoring it drop by drop. Another favorite was Simon Creek. Most of their wine has names based on mobsters and Al Capone, as the area was a favorite with gangsters from Chicago. The tasting room was beautiful and the wine good enough to rate another case! At one, we were even treated to a horse drawn carriage ride in the snow through the cherry orchard. This winery, the Orchard Country Winery and Market featured cherry wines, salsas and a delightful county store. The company does all different kinds of tours from Halloween to Lighthouse and everything in between. For more inforamtion, check out Door County Trolley.

Places to Eat:

What vacation is complete with a cozy pizza joint? This is our number one job on vacation--find the best pizza in town, and it has to be a mom and pop place. Mission accomplished! Waverly Inn Pub and Pizzeria fit the bill perfectly. Housed in an old, old hotel in nearby Two Rivers, Wisconsin, this pub had the finest pizza in the area. Trust me, we tried several. Baked made to order with paper thin crust. So delicious! For more information, visit Waverly Inn Pub and Pizzeria.
While you're in the area, there is one place you have to stop. It's right beside Waverly Inn Pub and Pizzeria, and it is a famous historical landmark concerning food--Historic Washington House in Two River, Wisconsin. This 1850 hotel has been kept in sparkling vintage shape and houses a period ice cream parlor and upstairs museum. This house is the original location of the very first ice cream sundae ever served in the US. Invented by Ed Berner, it is served the same today--in sundae glasses with whipped topping, nuts and a cherry. The most popular flavor is chocolate topping and it's easy to see why this invention is still around today. For more information, call Historic Washington House at 920-793-2490.
Looking for a fun breakfast or lunch place right on the water? Check out M&M Lunch. This quaint diner is like something straight out of the 1950's with a revolving glass dessert case and a bar with swivel chairs. They have daily specials on the menu board and everything we had was so good on such a cold blustery day: homemade potato soup, cheese curds and fried mushrooms and a Double Bratwurst sandwich with the works, which is a brat, butterflied and fried, served on a bun with all the toppings. Be honest, that description made your mouth water a little, didn't it? For more information, visit M&M Lunch.
Another favorite lunch spot for us was Friar Tuck's. This place was so funny! From the outside, it looked like a regular square brick building. From the inside, we felt as if we had been transported straight to England! Brown wood beams, a long bar, and wenches serving sandwiches. What's not to love? Naturally, we had the cheese curds once again because it is Wisconsin and their cheese curds are not to be missed. We also had cheese and crab chowder, chili and a Reuben. Everything was so good--I felt as fat as Friar Tuck himself when we waddled out of there. For more information, visit Friar Tuck's.
My favorite restaurant of all was the Harborside Restaurant in Manitowoc. The outside is very plain but it is a little gem of a place. Open the door and you are in a romantic little hideaway with the Rat Pack playing on the speakers and the best Italian food I've eaten in many years, maybe ever. We started with the best calamari I have certainly ever eaten, followed by homemade bread and olive oil spread, a fabulous salad and a stuffed pecan chicken. It is one of those places where each bite is more delectable than the last. Truly amazing. The food was only overshadowed by the cocktails. There are so many varieties of martinis, from the classic to my favorite, the Pumpkin Martini, a dessert in itself. For more information, visit the Facebook page of Harborside Restaurant.

Why Canada?

2013-11-13T14:26:00.000-08:00

Collingwood, Ontario, Canada

When people started talking about their fall break plans, I was so excited to tell them about our upcoming trip to Canada. Most of them asked this question: Why Canada? Almost everyone we knew were making that annual trek to Orlando, Florida and the famous mouse. So, why in the world would anyone want to go north? What could be so intriguing way up there? What is there to do in Canada?

Oh, people, if you only knew!

Canada, during any time of year, is absolutely breath-taking. The drive alone is worthy of a visit--sweeping vistas of farms and forests, foaming and granite-filled beaches along those super lakes, majestic mountains--I could keep going but trying to pinpoint only ONE thing to love about Canada is almost impossible. Located within 12 hours of Louisville, Kentucky, it is more accessible than Florida and has a much more beautiful drive. Ontario is the closest to where we lived and is the most populous Canadian province. It is widely-known for the winter skiing, but it is an amazing trip during anytime of the year. This time, we visited in the fall and I don't think there could have been a better place to experience the fall foliage. Yes, I did say experience it, not just SEE it. Canada is all about the experience of being outside and enjoying nature, rather than driving by and taking pictures.

I highly recommend taking the scenic route once you come out of Detroit. Take the road less traveled and you will have memories to last you the rest of your life. The Georgian Bay is along Lake Huron and will take you all the way to our location, Collingwood. And, on the way back, go another scenic route and hit Niagara Falls. It will only add about 3 hours to your trip and will be well worth it. It is absolutely the best fall vacation we have ever experienced! If you've never travelled internationally, start with Canada. You won't miss that mouse one bit.

Things to See and Do:

The Best View. The best view is definitely to had at Scenic Caves. Don't picture those underground caves here in the US. These caves are all outside and are more like collapsed rock formations you can walk through. They are no less beautiful and eerie than the US counterparts, though. This is more of an adventure park than just a tourist attraction. There are so many things to do here for the whole family--ziplining, hiking, and a suspension bridge that has the best views you will ever see. Thunderbird Twin Zipline was absolutely amazing and gave 'thrilling' a whole new meaning. To get to the tower, you had to climb to the top of the small mountain and then climb another two to three stories. From there, it is a self-guided rush to the bottom, racing a partner the whole way. The EcoAdventure Tour and Treetop Canopy Walk was my favorite activity on the whole vacation and something I had never done before. Planks and boards are suspended in the forest at Scenic Caves among sixteen trees and you are harnessed in, walking the planks. It was the best way to see that fall foliage up close and personal. The end is a short zip-line to the bottom and the guides let you hang upside down, go backwards or both! After that, it is a short ride to the bottom of the mountain once again. For more information, visit Scenic Caves Nature Adventures.
The Top of the World. If the view from Scenic Caves didn't tickle your fancy, don't despair. Blue Mountain has just what you are looking for. Blue Mountain Resort is world-class, world-renowned resort for skiing and golf. If neither of those things are your cup of tea, there is also putt-putt, a mountain coaster (a personally guided roller coaster down the mountain), and shopping in an Alpine village with dozens of shops and unique restaurants. Still not hooked? Then, buy a ticket for the Gondola to the top of the mountain and take a Segway tour! Zipping through cross-country trails on a Segway is a whole new way to experience the fall leaves. This tour is located at the top of the mountain and the view is stunning. For more information, visit Blue Mountain Resort.
Wined and Dined. There are two wineries in the area and both are worth a visit. Both are very different in both taste and ambiance. Georgian Hills Vineyards is located down gorgeous, winding country roads. We were fortunate to be there during the apple harvest and fruit-laden trees were down every road. Farmer's markets, stands and local festivals made it a fun time to visit this winery. They do have a tasting room and the drive takes you right past the vines used to make the wines. For more information, visit Georgian Hills Vineyards. A completely different experience, and in a completely different direction, is Coffin Ridge Winery. Coffin Ridge is a boutique winery and one of the most unique I have ever been to. Their tasting room is beautiful and be sure to check out the bathroom while you're there, even if you don't need to go! The deep red walls and black toilet makes you feel like you've landed in Hades' house. While you're sitting in there, you can also watch an episode or two of The Addams Family! This is no shtick winery, though. They have delicious wines and the view off the back deck was the most beautiful of any winery we've ever visited. (That's a lot, folks!) For more information, visit Coffin Ridge Boutique Winery.

Places to Eat:

If wings are your thing, look no further than Beaver & Bulldog Sports Pub & Wingery. They have over twenty varieties of wings from the mundane BBQ and Jasmine to the more exciting Exorcism and Suicide. While you're there, try the side dish Canada is known for, the poutine. It is french fries with cheese curds topped with hot gravy. Incredible food and fun! For more information, visit Beaver & Bulldog Sports Pub & Wingery.
A landmark of Collingwood is The Alphorn Restaurant, a Swiss restaurant popular with skiers and winter tourists. The Alphorn is open all year, though, so don't wait to try it out. The weinerschnitzel is absolutely amazing and they offer different variations from the traditional, like smothered in mushroom gravy or with melted Swiss cheese on top. The portions are big enough for a giant, so be warned! Another really interesting taste was the raclette, an appetizer than was melted cheese with potatoes, pickles and pickled onions. Sounds crazy? It is a new favorite of mine! Everything we ordered was so good, from the noodles to the salad. For more information, visit The Alphorn Restaurant.
Want the convenience and ambiance of an old-fashioned pub and the cuisine of a fine restaurant? Look no further than The Dam Pub Gastro Pub and Whisky Bar in Thornbury. The Dam Pub has over 675 different kinds of whisky. Patrons can sample flights or single nips of anything on that vast menu. If you don't know what to order, the wait staff is very knowledgeable and can point you to some unique and tasty selection. The drinks aren't the only fun side of this place, though. The meal are prepared by a chef and lend to the Scottish side. From bangers and mash to shepherd's pie, you'll feel ready to take on any rainy or winter day. We had the Half Pounder sandwich--one-half pound of pure meat! Delicious and sinful! All this while traditional Scottish music plays in the background and shelves of old books darken the walls. Cozy, and perfect. For more information, visit The Dam Pub.

Midwestern Fun

2013-09-14T12:40:00.000-07:00

Columbus, Ohio

You don't always have to travel to exotic locales for a good time. And, huge cities like Chicago can sometimes feel just too big to take in when you've only got a short time to travel. Don't discount smaller cities like Columbus, Ohio. Located in a very centralized location, this spot has all the fun of a bigger city with a small-town feel. If you have a weekend to spend, look no further. Columbus, the second largest city in Ohio, feels much smaller and it doesn't take long to get a feel for things. Home to Ohio State University and the state's capital, Columbus also has some delicious eats, some great museums and some fantastic shopping. The skyline is beautiful and a meandering river walk downtown makes this a fun spot. The outer suburbs have a lot to offer as well. Did I say a weekend to see it all? Now that I think about, a full month probably wouldn't be enough time to see all that Columbus has to offer!

Things to See and Do:

Franklin Park Conservatory: No trip to Columbus is complete without stopping here. This Columbus icon has been a hallmark of the city since 1895. If you're thinking 'conservatory' means just a bunch of plants....you're right. But, you couldn't be more wrong. Franklin Park has a large collection of plants inside and beautiful gardens outside. A visitor could spend an entire afternoon just wandering around looking at everything. However, if you're the kind to stop and smell the roses, give yourself more than an afternoon. Franklin Park also has a butterfly exhibit where you can stand and be surrounded by the light flutterings of wings, from butterflies found all around the world. Truly, a unique experience! Franklin Park is also home to the largest collection of Dale Chihuly art found in any conservatory in America. If you're planning on staying for the day, make sure to eat lunch at the Garden Cafe. The sandwiches and entrees feature fresh herbs and there can be no more beautiful surroundings. For more information, visit Franklin Park Conservatory and Botanical Gardens.
Topiary Garden in Old Deaf School Park: This garden feature has to be seen to be believed and is a treat for both garden-lovers and art-lovers. The Old Deaf School Park is an oasis located downtown and is a perfect spot for an afternoon picnic or a stroll. This 7-acre park is home to more than 220 trees and has a Topiary Garden modeled after the 1887 painting Sunday Afternoon on the Isle of La Grande Jatte by Georges Seurat. Columbus native James Mason reinterpreted the painting in topiary and truly made the canvas turn into a 3D, 360-degree landscape miracle. The twelve-foot tall figures all made of different varieties of yew and a bronze example of the painting is on display so you can visualize exactly what the landscaper was trying to portray. For more information, visit Topiary Park.
If you are a literary lover, then you'll know that Columbus was the home to author James Thurber and the James Thurber House is a must see. Thurber House is on the outskirts of Ohio State University campus and is on the National Registry of Historic Places. The house is a living museum and is kept much of the way it would have looked when Thurber was living there as a young boy. The upstairs, though, has offices in some of the rooms and, rather than detract from the ambiance, seeing people working on literary activities in the bedrooms seemed too delightful to me. I would imagine Thurber would have approved. The tour is free is you guide yourself and $4 for a tour guide. What makes the home so unique is its nightlife! During the summer, the House hosts author nights where listeners can bring a lawn chair or a blanket and eat a catered dinner while listening to authors read from their works. The House also hosts a resident author, who lives on the top floor. The House is truly a living museum where children, aspiring writers and lovers of literature can flock and enjoy activities year round. For more information, visit Thurber House.
Columbus practically drips with culture and fun. One place that was full of both was the Columbus Museum of Art. From my old favorites like Cezanne, Gaugin and Monet to modern photography that is just too difficult to describe, this museum has a little bit of everything. When I went, there was a special exhibition of European puppetry. While I would never have considered myself a puppet fan, I was entranced by the exhibition which was just as much an antique show as pieces of art. There are revolving exhibits constantly. And, the docents there are amazing. They are so friendly and knowledgeable and in practically every room. There are also interactive exhibits which were so fun and an entire children's area where art is being created and touched and talked about. For more information, visit Columbus Museum of Art.
No trip to Columbus is complete without walking through the German part of the city, commonly known as German Village. While the food is amazing, my favorite store was The Book Loft of German Village. "Loft" makes it sound kind of small and quaint. Think again! The independent bookstore is located within several Civil War-era buildings that houses more than 30 rooms of books, all with different themes. For a book girl like me, it was pure heaven and definitely my idea of a great thing to do. I spent hours in there, just wandering around looking at old and new books, many of which are hard to find anywhere else. For more information, visit The Book Loft of German Village.

Places to Eat:

I try very hard to stay away from chain stores when I travel. Mom and Pops make food way better than a chain where everything usually just tastes the same as another chain. Sometimes, though, I make exceptions if the food is that good. At Cantina Laredo, the food IS that good. And, so is the atmosphere. The restaurant is beautiful and conveniently located at Polaris Mall. What really sets is apart is the wait staff. The food servers are so friendly. One even sat down at our table for about 15 minutes, telling us funny stories about living in Mexico and then moving to Columbus where his first job was to work a snow shovel. My favorite part, besides the margaritas, was the guacamole which is prepared right at your table. For more information, visit Cantina Laredo.
Schmidt's Restaurant and Banquet Haus has been around a long time--through 5 family generations and open since 1886. With all that time on their hands, they weren't just out enjoying life. Oh, no! They were in the kitchen perfecting the art of German cuisine. Located in German Village, this Columbus institution is a must do. Everything we ate was amazing--the pretzel nuggets, the sauerkraut-bratwurst balls, the schnitzel, the strudel. I could keep going on and on--but I won't because then you'll know how much I ate! Embarrassing! Plan enough time for a long walk around town after the meal. You can't escape without putting on a pound or two. But, it's so worth it. For more information, visit Schmidt's Restaurant and Banquet Haus.
To continue the gastric tour, we next stopped at an Italian restaurant in nearby Worthingotn, Ohio, which had been strongly recommended by some friends. Open since 1978, VillaNova is a truly authentic Italian meal. The inside of the place is something to see--clocks and collections and assortments of stuff (no better word to describe it) line every inch of wall space. As soon as the food comes out, though, you'll forget all about what's hanging on the wall and just concentrate on what's sitting at the table. We were lucky enough to be there on the night the special was the 'Tour of Italy'. We had fried cheese ravioli, lasagna, spaghetti, meatballs and the gnocchi. It was so good, every last bite. Is it wrong of me to say I feel a little sad because I couldn't try EVERYTHING on the menu? This restaurant was worth the drive to Columbus alone. For more information, visit VillaNova Ristorante Pizza Bar.

Should Be at The Top of Your Bucket List

2013-07-10T14:14:00.003-07:00

Puerto Vallarta, Jalisco, Mexico

When I tell people our next vacation will be to some location in Mexico, they invariably ask, "Is it safe?" I have to admit I have no idea where this strange idea that Mexico is full of crime and danger comes from. Sure, I've heard stories of Mexican cartels, but I hazard a guess that strolling down any street in downtown Los Angeles or New York or New Orleans would be just as risky. I have never once felt in danger. Everywhere you look, there are police cars and police stationed in tourist areas with machine guns. Me, I like having police with machine guns. If you don't feel safe with that, nothing will make you feel safe!

Regardless, tourism ranks as the top (legal) money-producing enterprise in Mexico, so tourists are treated like royalty. Jalisco is no exception. Puerto Vallarta was one of the stops on the old TV show The Love Boat, for good reason. It is beautiful and exotic and breath-taking. A tropical paradise in a busy city would be the best way to describe it. If that doesn't convince you, consider that Jalisco is the birthplace of tequila and it is the only place where tequila can be produced. If neither of those things convince you to visit, then check out the rest of the blog and the the pictures. You will soon see why this amazing destination needs to be at the top of any 'bucket list'.

Things to See and Do:

By Sea: Snorkeling at Marietas Islands. This chain of islands is about one hour away from Puerto Vallarta and the boat trip alone is worth it. On the way, we saw scads of various sea birds, dolphins that practically jumped onto the deck of our boat, and an entire school of manta rays. In the winter months, the area is well-known for whale watching and I have no doubt it would be quite an adventure. We were fortunately there during jellyfish hatching time, and seeing these tiny pink and clear creatures surrounding the boat was a fantasy that Walt Disney could only dream about. So beautiful! However, the truly unbelievable sight was the secluded beach at Marietas. To get to it, you have to snorkel through a water tube. It was rough swimming and seemed to take forever, but once you get inside, the trip is well worth it. The islands were once used by the Mexican government as target practice and the leftover damage is now a beach that is inside one of these craters, completely surrounded and only accessible by water. There is also a small grotto inside that you can crawl to. From there, we went to Los Arcos that had the best snorkeling we have ever done--and we have snorkeled in most of the Caribbean! Jellyfish, octopus, 'Nemo' fish--the two hours felt like ten minutes. We used the local company Vallarta Sol and were given breakfast, lunch, a snack and an open bar. The staff were amazing and seemed to have a heart for conservation. There are only a couple of touring companies even allowed to do this tour so plan far in advance. For more information, visit Vallarta Sol.
By Land: Four-wheeling the Sierra Madre Mountains. The Sierra Madre Mountains is a group of mountains that extend far into Mexico. An ATV tour is really the only way to see much of it as it would be inaccessible by regular car. Tours in the area can be individually on an ATV or in a group with a dune buggy. The tours last for hours and most of that time is spent traveling through rugged trails straight up into the mountains. Our tour left from the middle of the city in Puerto Vallarta and we got to drive through back roads of the city and see what Puerto Vallarta is really like, not just the glittering touristy areas. It was stark and beautiful and heart-breaking with poverty unlike anything we've seen anywhere else. Our tour took us to a restaurant on top of a mountain with a layover that allowed us to eat some local fare, swim in the river and do a tequila tasting. The guides were completely focused on our safety, our comfort and our fun. An amazing adventure! For more information, visit Wild Treks Adventures.
By Air: Ziplining the tropical forest. The Sierra Madre Mountains is a tropical forest, not a tropical jungle but the foliage and fauna have to be seen to be believed. The Canopy El Eden forest is home to the most intense, most extreme zip lining I've ever done. Considering I've zip lined Fremont Street in Vegas and flung myself off the tallest zip line structure in America, that's quite a statement. Canopy El Eden is the location where Arnold Schwarzenegger's movie Predator was filmed and you can walk in his footsteps and hike those same mountains. There are over 12 lines that criss-cross the site and hiking up the mountain is very strenuous, but the ride down is completely worth it. The guides seem to be more monkeys than men, zipping through the trees as if they were born to it and making it look so easy! When you're finished, end the day at The Eden restaurant sampling authentic Mexican fare and diving into the Mislamoya River, with a convenient rope swing leaving right from the restaurant. For more information, visit Canopy El Eden.

Places to Eat:

I'm going to cheat and recommend both a 'Thing To Do' and a 'Place To Eat' as one in the same. While in Puerto Vallarta, you must take a trip to Las Caletas. By day, it is a tropical paradise and private beach. By night, it transforms into a Mayan fantasy called Rhythms of the Night. You can only get to the location via a long boat ride but every minute is worth it. As you pull up at the beach, you are greeted by costumed performers who lead you to the base of a temple/pyramid that is the scene for an incredible show. The performance showcases traditional dance and music. The costumes, the dancing--it was all so amazing that I felt like a kid on Christmas morning with my mouth hanging open. The show ends right at dusk and you then wander down to the beach where tables are set up along the shore. An authentic Mexican buffet awaits you with plenty of 'American' food for those who might be tired of salsa and guacamole. There are as many courses as you want to eat and libations are poured liberally. When you're finished, you are free to walk around the beach. Each twist and turn of the trail is more amazing than the last and it seems but an instant until you hear the bells calling you back to the boat. A once in a lifetime experience! For more information, visit Vallarta Adventures.
The Best View in Town. If you like seafood, you'll have to head inland at Puerto Vallarta. The Happy Lobster (La Langosta Feliz) has some amazing fresh fish and the best view of the tropical forest you will find. The entire restaurant is open air with no walls and sitting on the second floor feels just like you're eating in the treetops. The food was so good and they had the biggest prawns I have ever seen in my life. Everyone at the table got something different and it would be hard to say what was the best! What made the place so much fun though is that it was away from the usual tourist streets. It's on a little side street just outside of town and all the food was authentic. Most of the people there were locals. No website but to make reservations, call 322-223-13-09 .
Does recommending an Italian restaurant in Mexico seem odd to you? Me, too, and yet........the youngsters rebelled at eating Mexican cuisine for every meal. We decided to try La Terrazza di Roma for two other reasons: #1--its location. It is located in the Marina area right on the water. Watching the yachts and boats while eating on a pier overlooking the water was just too much fun. The open air pier had an air of romance about it. We were there for breakfast but I can imagine at night, with candlelight, it would be quite lovely. Reason #2--Well, the pier overlooking the water. There are lots of restaurants on the Marina and we did try another one but I am a sucker for something fun. This place was fun. While we were there, some locals followed an alligator underneath the pier and I have some amazing photos of that. Alligators under our seats? Who knew they were even in Mexico? Maybe they were crocodiles, I don't know. And, the food? Quite good! No website, but for reservations or for questions, call (322) 221-0560.

A Guys and Girls Weekend

2013-05-06T16:12:00.000-07:00

When most people think of Kentucky, perhaps that famous horse race comes to mind or maybe those long wooden bats. However, the real Kentucky is waiting past the edges of Louisville, her famous honorary-capital. A country road in any direction will bring you in touch with the most fascinating history, the nicest people and the best eats you will ever encounter.

Taylorsville, Kentucky sits just one county away from Louisville, a gentle afternoon's ride, and while it will never be as famous as its nearest neighbor, it embodies the best of the Bluegrass state. Taylorsville Lake and Taylorsville Lake State Park are the biggest draw to the area in the summer, with fishing and boating and outdoor sporting causing the area to swell with tourists. However, there are other delightful features nearby and a trip in any season would be full of fun.

Things to See and Do for Guys (the Bourbon) and for Girls (the Wine):

Bardstown, Kentucky is only a short drive away and whatever you do, take the long winding road. There is nothing quite like the view--acres of achingly-green grass framed by white picket and ancient stone fences, winding roads through towns that time has surely forgotten, pre-Civil War mansions still keeping families warm. Idyllic and fantastic! Bardstown has enough for an entire blog and I'm already featured some of it in other postings but you can't get it in all at one time. Perhaps, like the bourbon it's known for, it was meant to be sipped slowly over time. Regardless, every trip should start at Heaven Hill Distillery and the Bourbon Heritage Center. The center is part museum/part working factor. After a short walk through a mini-museum, guests are taken into a cinema where the history of Kentucky bourbon is explained. Then, for those dedicated enough to take the 'Deluxe' tour, a short walk across the grounds lets you wander into those statuesque barns holding most of the world's inventory. It's a bit breath-taking, not only for the size and quantity but also for the stark beauty (and the fumes!). After a lengthy and informative tour, everyone gets to end their day at the tasting room, which is inside what has to be the world's largest barrel. For more information, contact Heaven Hill Distilleries.
Each distillery is just a little different, with some unique piece of fame or history to impart on its guest. Barton's 1792 is a newer distillery, at least as far as bourbons go! It began operating in 1897 but has only been hosting tours for the last couple of years. If you want the specifics of EXACTLY how that bourbon concoction is made, this is the tour to take. While the tour isn't long or cover much ground, I learned more about the process than I was able to keep in my brain. At the end, there is the complimentary tasting--with a little bonus, a Louisville made bourbon ball. That was my favorite taste of the day. And, on exiting, don't forget to stop and have your picture made with the 'World's Largest Bourbon Barrel'. For more information, visit Barton 1792 Distillery.
The wineries in town don't offer quite the historical punch, but the taste is so much sweeter! Our first stop was at Forest Edge Winery in nearby Shepherdsville. The winery is so big and beautiful, large enough for a wedding reception. The tasting bar is expansive as is their wine list. From sweets to dry, this winery had it all. For more information, visit Forest Edge Winery.
We ended the day at Chuckleberry Farm and Winery, one of the most unique wineries I have ever been to. I am a sweet wine drinker and do love to dabble in the fruit wines so this place was heaven for me! Every wine they offer is some sort of fruit wine--from apple and cherry to a flavor I have never tasted in wine before-banana! The tasting is extensive and we must have tried over 10 wines on the list before calling it a day. At the end, we were given a slushy wine treat and a free glass. This isn't a winery for those who like dry wines but it sure was a lot of fun. For more information, visit Chuckleberry Farm & Winery.
One cannot travel by backroads all the time and the interstates do have a few treasures. One of those is Talon Winery in Shelbyville, Kentucky. The winery has another location in Lexington as well. The tasting room and bar is truly remarkable and while we haven't been, I hear the live music on Saturday nights is something worth making that drive for. Regardless of the live music, the wine is enough for the time and trouble! The bottle and labels are gorgeous and this winery has mostly drys and semi-drys. Needless to say, we came back with the car loaded full! For more information, visit Talon Winery and Vineyards.

Man Cannot Live By Bourbon and Wine Alone. We also had to eat:

If you're looking for ambiance and sophistication, this place ain't it. If you're looking for some delicious vittles and some Kentucky charm, then look no farther than Lynda's Grill in downtown Taylorsville. It would be smart to get there for breakfast extra early or extra late to avoid the hunters and get a seat. There's only around 10 chairs in the whole place and if someone else is looking at the one menu, you'll be plumb out of luck. There is a drive-up menu outside but it just says 'breakfast' and if you don't know what a Kentucky breakfast entails, you might be thinking of danish and pastries. Won't find that here. No, here you get home-grilled country ham, warm biscuits and gravy and sliced tomatoes--all for under $5.00. The food was amazing and the the people so friendly. For more information, check out their Facebook page at Lynda's Grill.
If you're looking for something a little more frou-frou, try The Tea Cup in downtown Taylorsville. This cafe specializes in coffee and baked goods. I had a Pina Colada muffin and it was just as good as you can imagine--so moist and coconutty. They have a wide variety to take or you can stay and eat, plus they also do cafe-style sandwiches for lunch. For more information, try their Facebook page at The Tea Cup.
When I am traveling (and most other times), I try to avoid chain restaurants like the plague. But, now I'm going to recommend Hometown Pizza in Taylorsville, even though it is a chain for two reasons: #1....it is small chain that actually got its start in LaGrange, Kentucky so it's more like family; and, #2....the pizza is just that good. I am a pizza-phile. I love pizza and could literally eat it every night of the week. As it is, I eat it once per week. Hometown Pizza is my favorite pizza joint and I eat at one every time I find one nearby. The atmosphere is so family friendly and it feels more like you're eating in a friend's kitchen than a restaurant. And, the pizza? Divine. There's no other words for it. I'm sure they have other stuff on the menu but why bother when the pizza is this good? To find a Hometown Pizza near you, visit Hometown Pizza.
Claudia Sanders Dinner House in Shelbyville is another jewel right on the interstate. And, after eating there, I think I know one of the Colonel's secrets in his chicken--his wife's cooking! I hate to be sexist but I have to admit I always wondered how the Colonel, a man, could have come up with such a Southern delight ast that chicken recipe. After eating at his wife's dinner house, I have absolutely no doubt it was his wife's influence that has caused such a global phenomenon. I don't even know how to describe food this good. It was one of those moments where my husband and I both took a bite and then just looked at each other and said, "Wow". When food is that good, you don't need many other words. Their buffet is astounding and filled with every southern delicacy you can name. Husband had the fried chicken and it was so good. The biscuits were amazing; the mashed potatoes and gravy was amazing; the bean soup and ham salad was amazing. Wow. I cannot wait to go back. There's enough on the menu to go back and try things for a lifetime. For more information, check out Claudia Sanders Dinner House.

Fun In Every Season

2013-03-10T08:53:00.001-07:00

It's hard to find a travel destination that has something different for every season. Usually, locations are fun for summer swimming or fun for winter snow or fun for fall colors, but rarely is a locale beautiful and enjoyable in every season.

The Outer Banks, North Carolina, or OBX, is one such location. In the summer months, it is a premier destination for beach fun and all the best of summer memories. Yet, just a few months later, the entire Banks transforms itself into a frosty winter wonderland and while you can't ski the slopes there, the majesty of the dunes will make you forget all about ski boots and trail runs. When people ask me about my favorite location ever or the most beautiful location ever, the Outer Banks is alwasy in my top ten.

To be fair, I haven't been there in the fall or spring, but I imagine the beauty of the region still has much to offer for any tourist of any age. Truly, the Outer Banks seems to have it all. If you love water sports and sunny beaches, they have it. If you love history and culture, they have it. If you love forests and natural beauty, they have it. Shopping? Yup. Honestly, I'd be hard-pressed to think of something the Banks doesn't have.

No matter when you go, the following establishments and events are must-do's:

Hit the slopes. No, not the ski slopes, the sand dunes! While you can't snow ski in OBX, you can sandboard! Jockey's Ridge State Park is the tallest natural sand dune in the United States and one of the most beautiful sites I've ever seen. When you walk into the dunes, it feels as if you are on a desert as large and long as the Sahara. The undulating dunes seem to stretch for miles and that's after walking down almost 400 feet of boardwalk! The flora and fauna are abundant and just cruising the dunes is pure fun. Our daughters played hide and seek with us and loved just running up and down. However, there is plenty to do at the park, should you wish to be more scheduled. They have many nature walks and talks but the most amazing thing seemed to be the kite races that were underway. If you're really adventuresome, grab a kite. Or, maybe a really big kite and go hang-gliding. So breathtaking to see! For more information, visit Jockey's Ridge State Park.
Hit the air. Everyone has heard of Orville and Wilbur Wright but did you know that brothers made their historic first flight at Jockey's Ridge State Park (which was just a big pile of sand back then)? The Wright Brothers National Memorial will tell you everything you ever wanted to know about this momentous time in history. You can hike to the actual launchpoint of that first successful flight and spend many hours in the Visitor's Center reading and experiencing all the failed ones. The Center has many interactive displays and is really more of a musuem of the history of flight with an actual replica of the plane the brothers flew. For more information, visit The Wright Brothers National Memorial.
Hit the trail. North Carolina is one of very few states with a native population of wild horses. When I say 'native', I just mean they were here before the US was a thought. The horses are descendents of Spanish mustangs and roam free over a protected area of OBX. Don't miss seeing these beauties in action. And, by action, I mean standing around and grazing but it's still a sight not to be missed. There are various tours you can take and most of them are open SUV which heightens the thrill. On this trip, you will leave paved roads behind and wander sand streets until you spot one or two or a whole herd. They are majestic and beautiful and worth the trip. The small village of Currituck has a museum and takes donations to protect these state and national treasures. For more information, visit.The Outer Banks of North Carolina: Wild Horses.
Hit the lights. You could spend several days driving the back roads of OBX and 'lighthousing' and I highly recommend you do just that. For the history lover, there is nothing more majestic and peaceful than visiting these museums and imagining how a lighthouse keeper kept the fires burning for ships. (This area isn't called 'The Graveyard of the Atlantic' for nothing!). For the scenery-lover, the back roads are mile after mile of unspoiled wildnerness and the scenes where the lighthouses are set are truly breath-taking. There are five in all and the encompass both the oldest in the country and the tallest in the country, including the Cape Hatteras Lighthouse which is known as 'America's Lighthouse'. If you're picturing one in your head, it's probably this one. They are very spread apart so plan for a full day. You won't be sorry. For more information, visit The Outer Banks of North Carolina: The Lighthouses.

And, the food cannot be beat. Be sure to try these places:

Try ducking donuts at Duck Donuts. This place must be visited for two reasons: #1 The donuts are truly incredible. #2 The process to make the donut is a show in inself. I don't know what I was expecting when I walked in the door. Perhaps a huge bakery with rows of donuts waiting for me in class cases? What I got was a delicious donut hot off the press. Every single donut is made while you wait. So, get there really early or expect to wait in line a long time. The choices are amazing....strawberry, coconut, maple, sprinkles, peanut butter--I could go on and on. They have every topping and flavor you could imagine and some you couldn't. We bought several dozen to feed a large family gathering.....and had to go back for more. They also offer drinks and fun merchandise. You will not find a better breakfast in the Banks. Be sure to watch your donuts being made--I think it made them taste better. For more information, visit Duck Donuts.
For an authentic Banks meal, not place can top The Black Pelican Oceanfront Restaurant. The restaurant is named after a legend of a ghost--the ghost of a black pelican! The building was constructed in 1874 and is an old lifegaurding station and supposedly the Wright Brothers sent a famous telegraph from there announcing their first successful flight. As if that history weren't amazing enough, when you eat here you can say you have eaten at a haunted restaurant. There are many stories in the area of a black pelican that appears right before times of a great disaster, such as a hurricane. The sighting of the pelican is meant to serve as a warning to the living. While we, fortunately, did not see a black pelican, we did experience one of the best seafood meals I've ever had. The fish is about as fresh as they come and is a true delight. For more information, visit The Black Pelican Oceanfront Cafe.
Why come to an ocean location if you can't have at least one meal looking at the water? In this case, the water isn't the Atlantic but the equally beautiful 'sound' side of the Banks. Sunset Grille and Bar certainly lives up to its name so make sure to spend one evening watching the sun go down. You will not be disappointed by the view or the food. Sit outside, if possible. The decking and long boardwalk are so gorgeous and really puts you in the mood. The restaurant features most seafood and Carribbean fare and all of it was divine. Everyone at the table got something different and, after trying them all, I couldn't decide what was better. (Although I am still a little partial to the coconut shrimp.) For more information, visit the Sunset Grille and Raw Bar.

Do As Much.....Or As Little As You Want

2013-01-02T14:58:00.000-08:00

This is one place you'll not find on a cruise stop. Instead, you'll have to want to go there and stay. Playa Del Carman, Mexico sits just right across a stretch of water from Cozumel but seemed a world away from the busy Mexican tourist destinations we've been to before. Don't get me wrong--I love Cozumel! The blue-green water, the warm ticklish breeze, the homemade guacamole so good it'll make you want to smack those other guacs back in the states. But, Playa Del Carman is a true slacker's paradise. A place to laze away the days with sun, snoozing and eating. Or, more, if you're so inclined.

But, honestly, I wasn't. I didn't feel the need to run from tourist trap to tourist trap. I didn't want to rush anywhere and do anything. It's almost as if I were hypnotized in some way. I just wanted to sit on the beach and experience heaven.

Perhaps it had something to do with my timing? After all, it was December 2012 and about one week away from the Mayan prediciton of world doom. I could tell on the trip to Playa (about 45 minutes away from Cancun), that this would be a different vacation because of all the..well, hippies. There were lots and lots of hippies. Hippies everywhere. These were the real thing, too, with knee-length dreadlocks, bulging backpacks, and tie-dyed garments from head to toe. Why so many? I had to know.

So, I asked. I asked the hippie guy sharing our ride (right after he asked the bus driver to stop at a convenience store for some beer because he just couldn't wait one more second. The driver stopped--another thing I love about Mexico--the complete focus on customer service.) Me: "So, what's up with all the hippies? Why are there so many of you here?" Hippie: "There's a bluegrass/folk festival at Tulum. We want to be here when it all goes down. This is where all the positive energy of the universe is." Me: "Huh! Interesting!" (Technically, he had a few "man's" throw in, such as "We want to be here when it all goes down, man" but you get the idea.)

What better place to be at the end of the world? Those hippies are on to something. My blog this month will focus mostly on the eating (which I did lots of) and not a lot on the adventure (unless you count eating as much as you can an adventure).

To Do:

Get a massage on the beach. Massages are big in Playa and masseuses are lined up to take your business for very inexpensive rates. Our massage was $25 for the hour and it was one of the best hours of my life. There is something so decadent about lying on a rooftop feeling the warm sun and soft breeze of the Mayan Riviera while getting a massage. While there are many massage parlors, there are also masseuses who will come to your place. There is even a massage parlor/hut right on the beach, literally just steps away from the water. Our masseuse came to our location and was wonderful! According to her business card, she does a variety of services such as shiatzu, reflexology, deep tissue, even manicures and pedicures. While there, email her at mosara-17@hotmail.com or call 984-134-6072.
Do a tequila tasting. Tasting tequila in Mexico is like tasting bourbon in Kentucky: you just have to go the source for the best stuff. Tequila is something I had only formerly considered as a margarita ingredient but my lesson in tequila really opened my eyes. Tequila is actually made from the 'heart' of a plant that is similar to a yucca. The saying is "the heart can be cooked" (which I personally think would make a great title for a paranormal romance novel but...I digress). The process of making tequila is so interesting so educate yourself and then try the stuff. I thought tequila came in just a few flavors but there are dozens and dozens of them. While I won't go into too much detail, I will say that my favorite is 1921 Crema de Tequila. It puts Bailey's to shame and your coffee will never be the same again. Splurge on a bottle you can't buy here in the states--some of them are made my local villages/natives and really helps out the local economy.
Listen to a band with your feet in the sand. Fusion Beach Hotel Bar and Grill, located at the end of 6 Calle, is more than a restaurant; it's an experience. I recommend going at night, for dinner. There is just something so relaxing about squatting in lawn chairs around a table by candlelight listening to some jams. The night we went there was a Reggae band and a bellydancer--so fun! The real treasure, though, was listening to the sounds of the surf under a sparkling sky with friends and laughter. The food is pretty good, too. For more information, visit Fusion Beach Hotel Bar and Grill.
For those of you who insist on doing something, there is plenty to do. There are hourly ferries to Cozumel and surrounding islands. There are jet ski and parasailing rentals. There are deep-sea fishing tours. There are Mayan ruins nearby. I heard all that--personally, I didn't step off the beach or the main strip.

To Eat:

For the friendliest service, try La Parilla Mexican Grill, located at 5th Avenue and 8 Calle. Every time we went, the entire staff went out of their way to make us smile and laugh and feel right at home. When I say 'every time' we went, you can tell we went there a lot. Every day for lunch. Every. Single. Day. And, it wasn't just because of the great service. First, La Parilla is the best spot in town for people-watching. There is a rooftop and an open bar area and shaded tables right on the busiest street. You can sit for hours and never see the same people twice. Secondly, the margaritas are so good, you just might want to sit there for hours. Delicioso! Pair that with the tastiest chorizo queso I've ever had and this trumps as my favorite restaurant. On our lunch night there, the manager gave me a calendar for being such a 'good customer'. For more information, en espanol, visit La Parilla Mexican Grill.
In our quest to find the perfect margarita, we stunbled onto the best pico de gallo on Earth at Tropical Playa Del Carman, located at 5th Avenue and 8 Calle. While I am always a fan of good pico, this stuff was addictive---which probably explains why we went back so many times! Combine that with half-price happy hour and fabulous seating right on the street, and you can't beat Tropical for a great place to start your adventure in fine dining. For more information, en espanol, visit Restaurante-Bar-Hotel Tropical Playa Del Carmen.
El Pirata. Yep, a pirate bar! Right on the beach! This little place was too much fun. When the sun and surf just gets to be too much to bear, take short stroll to El Pirata, located at 10 Calle, just keep walking until you hit the water. Each table is a little grass hut and the seats at the bar are swings. The margaritas are cold and the nachos have real steak. Really, what else does one need in life?

Las Vegas is a Safe Bet Any Time of Year

2012-12-02T17:47:00.000-08:00

I'm not going to write about the Las Vegas you probably already know--the gambling and drinking and partying. Mostly because I don't do those things. I am going to write about my kind of Vegas--one that is indeed an adult's play land, full of wonder and excitement and beauty.

There are more shows and restaurants and shopping than any other location on Earth. (That isn't actually a researched fact but I'm sure I'm right.) Any thing that a human being would want to do can be found in or near there: outside adventure (racing in the desert at Desert Race car Adventure); natural beauty (the Grand Canyon at Grand Canyon National Park); man's greatest achievements (Hoosier Dam); man's greatest follies (Mob Museum); art; food--I could go on and on. Las Vegas has it all for any adult on the list. There are only two types of people who would not enjoy this vacation--non walkers and children. To truly experience everything, a stout pair of walking shoes is in order. It is nearly impossible to see and do anything in Vegas without walking a major part of your day. Taking a taxi or the convenient public transportation (Deuce and Double Deuce) is nice but you still walk almost everywhere you want to go. And, people, leave the kids at home. While many of the shots of Vegas look like a kid might enjoy them with rides and carnival type atmospheres (Circus Circus Casino for example), there are hardly anything for kids to do and at nights, some really questionable characters come out.

As far as the climate goes, there really isn't a bad time to go. The summer might be the least fun with rising temperatures and huge crowds. In my opinion, fall is really ideal since the pools are still open and the heat isn't quite so bad. But,the holiday season is just jaw-dropping with no limits to Christmas and other holiday decorations.

To See:

Of course, the casinos have to figure in any conversation about Las Vegas. But, I didn't go there to gamble. I actually tried it for about 10 minutes before I was bored out of my skull. Maybe I didn't get the point but sitting and pushing the same little button and watching some numbers and pictures flash in front of my eyes at rapid pace just didn't seem entertaining. Mind numbing, maybe. One should really go to the casinos for the absolute pure wonder and delight that each instill throughout their unique buildings. While you can travel from Paris (the best way to see the Bellagio Fountain Show is from the top of the Eiffel Tower at Paris Las Vegas Hotel and Casino) to Venice (the best Italian experience is eating under the"sky" at The Venetian Las Vegas) to New York (the famous inside and outside roller coaster is at New York-New York Las Vegas Hotel and Casino) in just a few steps, these are my favorites:

The Wynn is more of a museum than a casino. The gambling tables themselves are discreetly set back within the buildings and tourists can freely walk through the most amazing shopping on the Strip. More amazing than that, though, is the center garden area. Located inside, this area has greenery and floral designs that have to be seen to be believed. The decorations change fairly often but you could easily spend an afternoon just walking around looking at one amazing sight after another. For more information, see The Wynn Las Vegas.
The Bellagio defines the word opulence. Every wall and hallway and door oozes sophistication and class. Even the chairs by the cheap slots are some of the nicest in all of Las Vegas! My favorite part, though, would have to be the Conservatory and Botanical Gardens. Right in the middle of the hotel, an entire room is devoted to some of the most beautiful flora and fauna I have ever seen. While it isn't a huge area, it more than makes up for that with spectacular displays that change with each season. This area is typically packed with tourists and even waiting to get into the area is amazing because the lobby ceiling is also an art piece. The chandelier is by artist Dale Chihuly and many of his pieces are scattered throughout the hotel. The Bellagio also has the nicest swimming pool and although it is exclusively for guests, it is worth looking at. Of course, what trip to Las Vegas would be complete without the spectacular Fountain show. For true Vegas style, time your visit to Elvis's "Viva Las Vegas" or visit during one of the classical numbers for a show that is breath-taking and where the water seems to literally dance right before your eyes. For more information, see Bellagio Las Vegas.
The Luxor is one of the farthest on the Strip but is worth the trek. Just stepping foot into the immense lobby gives one the idea of what those Egyptian pyramids must have been like. The inside is large enough to host a village but the real treat is the elevators. Since the rooms are built on the inside of the pyramid, the floors are slanted.....which makes the elevators go sideways. Truly a unique and unsettling experience. While you're there, try out T&T (Tacos and Tequila). They have dozens of tequilas--unique and pricey and their Blue Agave Margarita is the finest I have ever drunk. For more information, visit Luxor Las Vegas.

To Do:

I am not going to suggest the top attractions of Vegas. Anyone acquainted with the Internet can surely research those. Instead, I am going to suggest a couple of out-of-the-way ideas that a one-time visitor might skip. And, while it is impossible to do it all, put at least one of these ideas on your to-do list.

The Auto Collection at the Quad Resort and Casino (formerly Imperial Palace) is showcased as "The World's Largest Classic Car Showroom" and it is truly spectacular. While I am not a gear head by any stretch of the imagination, wandering around looking at these beauties was a great time. Some of the cars are valued at $1 million and there are many shoppers walking around looking to buy! The 250 cars are valued at over $100 million and a new audio feature gives in depth information about each car. What is even more surprising is that the whole thing is free. If you need to take a few minutes out of your busy day, stop by here. I guarantee you'll see things here you won't see anywhere else in your lifetime. For more information, visit The Quad.
You might think zip lines belong in the forests or woods but Zip lining Fremont Street is a must-do experience! Fremont Street could be suitably named 'Freak Street' because this is where the most colorful people in Vegas hang out--with snakes, and chains, and piercings and anything else your imagination could think of. Seeing all that from above is just too incredible. Climbing five stories and then shooting down the street would be amazing on its own but what truly sets it apart is not what is under your feet but what is over your head--Viva Vision! Viva Vision is like a music video on rocket overload. Hundreds of feet long, the screen lights up with video and music feeds from classic rock (like Kiss) to more recent rock (like Bon Jovi). Plus, the older, vintage signs have been installed so it is also like a neon museum of the Strip in its glory days. It is truly an experience that only Vegas could bring. For more information, visit, Fremont Street Experience.
Who would go all the way to Las Vegas just to waste one day at the pool? If you're smart, that answer should be you! The pools at Vegas aren't like your local YMCA variety. They are more like oases, full of music, incredible food and drink and the best money and DJ's to rival any nightclub in Vegas. The servers are really showgirls in skimpier outfits and each pool is meant to relax visitors. Honestly, a day spent at a Vegas pool feels like relaxing in some faraway tropical location. My favorite was at the Flamingo, one of the oldest on the Strip because it also includes a small zoo/aviary and the final resting place of Bugsy Malone. For more information, visit Flamingo Las Vegas.

To Eat:

If you were to live in Las Vegas, you could literally eat at a different restaurant every single night and still have plenty of restaurants to choose from. I am going to avoid obvious chain restaurants since you could indulge in that in practically any city and also avoid choices that are too expensive. It would be possible to go broke during a single dinner in Vegas and since I am a modest schoolteacher, none of those options were available to me. Here, instead, are my top three choices for a culinary experience that is one of a kind:

For breakfast, nothing can beat Hash House A Go-Go inside The Quad. This restaurant has been featured on Man Vs. Food, so make sure to share all entrees. Just trust me on this one. Their panckaes are as big as tires and you can literally add any ingredient to it you can think of. I did blackberries and granola and it was so good! They also have a Snickers pancake that is pretty much sinful. My favorite is the Waffles and Chicken. Who in the world thought of this lovely concoction and why have I wasted my life eating other things? It is literally as tall as a toddler and I am ashamed to say we ate almost every bite. You will be full the entire day but it's worth it. For more information, visit Hash House A Go-Go: Twisted Farm Food.
For lunch, you can't find a more delectable menu than Chocolate By the Bald Man at Caesar's. Honestly, any restaurant that has MAPLE SYRUP as a SIDE DISH should go to the top of any one's list. A huge copper vat sits right inside the store, beckoning to all who enter with the smells of liquid chocolate. Hints of spices of cinnamon and other exotic smells practically swallow the patron and no seat is a bad one. The menu is pure decadence. But, hey, this is Vegas, right? For more information, visit Chocolate By the Bald Man: Max Brenner.
For dinner, there is no view more spectacular than the VooDoo Steak and Rooftop Nightclub atop the Rio Casino. Located a couple of blocks off the Strip, it is definitely worth the trip over. The restaurant is on the 50th floor of the hotel and offers a romantic view that has to be the best in the city. You can see up and down the Strip with views of every hotel and the busy lives far below. The food is amazing and lives up to the height. When you finish, go up one floor to the 51st nightclub. This outdoor establishment has clear glass walls and it feels as if you are floating over the city. An amazing experience. For more information, visit Rio All-Suite Hotel and Casino.

The Waterpark Capitol of the World

2012-11-10T18:59:00.003-08:00

Water, Water Everywhere and Fun at Every Turn

When you think of Wisconsin, you might automatically think 'Cheesehead' or beer. If you're more refined, perhaps you picture the winged Milwaukee Art Museum. If you're a little less refined than that, it's that place where they did American Idol a couple of seasons ago. But, Wisconsin has so much more to offer than cheese, beer, cow and art. Although, to be fair, they do those things to the ultimate degree.

Another well-known tourist destination is Wisconsin Dells, Wisconsin. Just short drive away from the Windy City, Wisconsin is a 3 and 1/2 hour drive (a little over 190 miles from Chicago). Many people, when asked, might fondly remember a Wisconsin Dells of their youth, with outdoor water parks and a picturesque downtown. You don't have to squint too hard to see that 1950's version but the 'new' Wisconsin Dells will surely blow you away.

The Dells has something for every age and every season, from the high to the low brow, from those who like quiet country drives to those who zip through the trees hanging by a thread. Summer weather finds amusement and water parks, literally the largest in the United States. Fall and spring are astounding for the foliage and boat trips to see the majestic and unique 'Dells'. (Fun Fact: The 'Dells' is actually a striated rock formation that is only found in three other places on earth, one of which is underwater and another in a foreign country) Winter won't leave you bored since many of the water parks are indoors and it is also home to many indoor amusement parks, one of which has a three-story ropes course which was amazing even for someone deathly afraid of heights! It's full of fun, eats, water and culture from one end of the county to the next.

To Do:

You may have heard of the 'Ducks' before--the partly amphibious, partly terrain open-air vehicles that are major tourist attractions all over the US. Well, that tradition started right here in Wisconsin Dells. The Original Wisconsin Ducks are actually WWII-era vehicles that still patrol the quiet woods and deep waters of the Wisconsin River, Dell Creek and Lake Delton. This trip will take you over eight miles of both land and water that have to be seen to be believed. Quiet woods and out of the way lake spots led us to view our very first sighting of a bald eagle, once endangered, calmly drinking water by the lake, standing nearly as tall as a human! Wildlife abounds and the foliage during the fall was breathtaking. The tour guide was full of history and was so funny that both teenage daughters laughed out loud in spite of themselves! For more information, visit The Original Wisconsin Duck Tours.
If thrill and adventure are your thing, you must visit Kalahari Indoor Theme Park. To me, this seemed as if it must be the largest in the world, although they didn't advertise that. They have over 100,000 feet of space devoted to fun both in the water and out, all for families and the young at heart. The water park is amazing with a lazy river that feels as long as the Congo. The water slides are breathtaking (literally) with spots for babies and toddlers, a wave pool, various water slides and a toilet-flush bowl that had me laughing out loud, spurting up water and holding on to my top. Of course, the next day, my body rudely reminded me I wasn't quite as young as I thought! Still, wow! What fun. When you get dried off, there's another world awaiting you with an indoor Ferris wheel, a race track, a three-story ropes course, climbing walls and laser tag--all under one roof! Not to mention the 24 lanes of bowling, movie theater and gourmet food spots. You could literally spend an entire day here with the family and not be able to do everything. Amazing fun for any age! For more information, visit Kalahari Resorts and Conventions.
I do not consider myself an amateur at ziplining. I have been before and to pretty extreme places--Fremont Street on Halloween Night at Las Vegas; Branson Missouri and the tallest zipline in America at Christmas with twinkling lights guiding me on the way down. But, I must say, this zipline was.....simply the best I've ever done! The Wilderness Canyon Zip Line Tour is not so much a zipline as a zipline adventure. The course winds through the trees and over a gully or two (canyon seems extreme when you've seen the Grand Canyon from the air). In reality, the trip is 5 ziplines to 6 platform towers that meander through a forest way, way, way up high. I hate heights but hurtling through space and the colorful leaves during Autumn was an experience I will never forget. And, I will also never forget having to be rescued by the guide because I couldn't quite make it to the platform. The guides were amazing and funny and so very competent that they made us all feel like the professionals. For more information, visit Wilderness Territory.
After all that adventure, mom and and dad needed a little time to themselves to relax and unwind. Fall Creek Winery provided just the rest and fun we needed. We always try to visit a local winery on our trips and so we have seen and tasted dozens. But, this one was truly unique! Their winery is located a few miles out of town and the drive, in the fall, was gorgeous. They were just getting ready for the fall and putting up scads of pumpkins and gourds. I suspect they go out for every holiday and the grounds were just gorgeous. The inside was also a delight with a full tasting bar, tables to enjoy some artisan cheese, an outside deck that features bands and even a shopping area. What made the winery so unique was their wine blends. I've never seen this before but I am a fan now. They take dry wines and mix them with different flavors to create a brand new seasonal or fruit wine that is truly unlike anything I've tasted. I avoid most fruit wines because they are too tart but these were heady and full of aroma and tasted so wonderful. A full case made the long trip back home and will be enjoyed in short order! For more information, visit Fawn Creek Winery.

To Eat:

New Orleans seems a world away from the cold, frozen North. And, yet.......Taste of New Orleans brought all those memories from the deep South back! This charming restaurant is located on a quaint downtown street that has probably looked the same for decades--and I mean that in the most flattering way. Inside, the decor is so cheesy, so quaint, so absolutely adorable that my girls and I had great fun taking pictures everywhere we could--A Bourbon Street sign with beads in Wisconsin! Who woulda thought? And, the food! Oh, my! We had Gator Bites and Cajun Swamp Balls and they just tasted New Orleans though and through. And, the Shrimp Po Boy was so very, very Po (that's a compliment!) Everything was so delicious. The only, slightest disappointment was the beignets, but, really, what were we thinking? That kind of pleasure can only be found in the French Quarter. For more information, visit A Taste of New Orleans.
Any restaurant that has a moose straddling a VW bug is a friend of mine--what a mascot! The inside of this restaurant, Moosejaw Pizza & Dells Brewing Co., is true North, true Wisconsin, true Canadian! At least, that's what calls to mind when you step inside and see wooden beams and tables and soaring wooden balustrades and a roaring fireplace easily two stories tall. If the cozy atmosphere doesn't get you, the food will. The Mozzarella Sticks are literally true sticks--as thick as a branch you would find on a tree. Deep-fried and served with warm Bruschetta, it is more mouthwatering than any words can describe. And, the pizza! Ahh, the pizza. It isn't one of those cardboard chain stores. This pizza is made to order with any variety of toppings you desire and so thin (if you want), it snaps when you bite into it. My favorite kind. They also have an onsite microbrewery and for a very reasonable fee, you can indulge in your brews. Tastings and dozens of beers and a generous growler made for one very happy poppa. For more information, visit Moosejaw Pizza & Dells Brewing Co.
What is beer without brats? Okay, so I'm not big into beer but brats is a whole 'nother thing and Brat House Grill had those in abundance. This place is more like a bar and probably not something you want to bring small kids to, but the brats and dogs are so good. The Chicago Style Dog was dripping with toppings--onions, peppers, relish and tomatoes and the Parmesan Fries were so good. Watching a wall-size TV made for a very laid-back, fun night. For more information, visit Brat House Grill.
All the pizza and hot dogs and beer had to be balanced with a nice, fancy meal and we weren't disappointed by Sarento's. A true Italian feel met you at the door and followed you all the way to your table. This was no poser! An authentic Italian meal awaited us and we waddled to the car on our way home rather than walked. The insalate was so delicious--finger licking good, although I refrained because this was a fancy place but I wanted to! A unique and truly amazing dish, dare I say award-winning if there were such awards for this, was the Chicken Sarento, a dish of grilled chicken, arugula, basil, tomatoes, olive oil and balsamic vinegar. It is almost worth my 8+ hour drive just to go back and get this dish. For more information, visit Sarento's Restaurant and Pizzeria.
What week would be complete without Mexican and Margaritas? Not mine, certainly! The Mexicali Rose is located just on the Lower Dells and has a most awesome view. The entire back wall is glass and almost every table sits in front of the windows. In addition to the scenery, the food was quite good and while the margaritas didn't match the local ones from home, they did the the trick. The food was absolutely authentic and the Carnitas and Salsa and Guacamole hit the spot. For more information, visit Mexicali Rose.
For a conclusion to our tour of the world in Wisconsin Dells, we decided to do Carribbean at Marley's. I am so glad we did. What a fun time! When we entered, a Zumba class was just warming up on the dance floor and we were able to enjoy some great music and a some laughs at locals being silly (I hope!). Everyone in the place seemed intent on having a great time. Even the table wait was fun--the table covering was a big piece of butcher paper with crayons and we played tic-tac-toe and had drawing competitions until our food arrived. That, also, did not disappoint. Our appetizer was so good, a nibbles sampler that was served in a bucket. So cute. The fish tacos were wonderful and any Caribbean would be proud to know their food was being represented well. For more information, visit Marley's: A Taste of the Caribbean.

Fairs, Festivals and Fetes

2012-10-13T14:57:00.001-07:00

Spring, Summer, Fall and even Winter--no season is without a festival of some kind. I admit to being something of a festival fan. I love aimlessly wandering from tent to tent, sampling homemade wares, buying local artisan jewelry and celebrating what is unique and beautiful about local towns. No Walmart clearnance sales or Super Bowl for me--just fill up a tank of gas on a Saturday morning and hit the road for a day of fun and surprises.

Spring Festivals

In Kentucky, Spring really begins with The Kentucky Derby Festival. Since the Derby is held the first full weekend in May, the festival is always the two weeks prior to that. You don't have to be from Kentucky to love this festival. There is something to do for everyone--a full 'chuckwagon' of every food and vendor imaginable; free concerts and contests; a fair; a marathon; and I couldn't forget about Thunder over Louisville, now the largest fireworks show in the nation. But, that's nothing compared to the Air Show that gathers fans from the youngest to the oldest to witness arial feats that can't be described without using words like 'loop-de-loop's and 'so fast' and 'too amazing'. My own personal favorite event though is the Great Steamboat Race. Seeing the Louisville Belle chug down the river racing another grand old riverboat lady takes me back to a yesteryear I can only imagine. For more information, visit Kentucky Derby Festival
Where else can you see the largest pumpkin/tomato in the state? Where else can you eat a friend Twinkie? Where else can you pet indigenous snakes and ride a tractor, all while nibbling on ice cream? Only at the Indiana State Fair. I've only been to a couple of state fairs, but this one is my favorite. It has the feel of a local town fair with all the offerings of a huge state affair. Rides on the side and rides on the track--fun from sun up to sun down. Local artists and huge stars--this fair has it all. If you've never been to a state fair before and think they only have farming to offer, think again. I'm no farm girl and I had a blast. If you are a farm girl, this is no contest--fun for every gender, every age. For more information, visit Indiana State Fair

Summer Fairs and Festivals

Wine, Art and Jazz Festival in Evansville, Indiana is one of my favorite festivals of all and I am proud to say I am making it a tradition! What could be better, more thirst-quenching on a hot summer day, than a cold glass of wine? How about several cold glasses of wine! One ticket to this festival will get you a glass that you can have refilled all day long with over fifteen (and counting) local wineries in attendance. Sample the wines and local foodstuffs and then meander over to a shaded tent and listen to local jazz musicians play until the wee hours of the night--if you can last that long! Local artisans are in attendance as well and their tents are set up along a breath-taking walk by the Ohio River. If you're new to wine, be sure to take in one of the free classes that will teach you everything you might want to know. For more information, visit Wine, Art and Jazz Festival

Fall Festivals

There are more fall festivals than during any other time of the year. Pumpkins and gourds and mums fill every farm on little backroads and even in big cities. But, the best festivals of all don't focus on the autumn harvest. The Bourbon Festival takes place in Bardstown, Kentucky, the bourbon capital of the world. Over 90% of the world's bourbon is produced here and this little historic town becomes center stage in the state during September each year. From events that feature music to a food area featuring foods dipped in, fried in and oozing bourbon, this festival caters to all. Black tie galas and historic tours of the town; car shows; artists' tents; bluegrass music--if Kentucky offers it, it can be found during the 6 days of this festival. The only thing you won't find is.....bourbon! The tastings can only be done at local restaurants so this is a great festival for the family and one that doesn't celebrate alcohol so much as Kentucky tradition. For more information, visit Kentucky Bourbon Festival

Winter Festivals

Think winter is for hiding out at home, wrapped in a Snuggy, reading by the fire? Think again! The Winter Wine Walk in Corydon, Indiana will have you rethinking your December Saturdays. This event has over 15 wineries set up in local shops in the charming historic town. So, in addition to free wine tasting, you also get to get a jump start on that Christmas shopping. For more information, check out Winter Wine Walk

There is no way to feature every festival, fair and fete in the area, but if you have one you'd like me to check out.....leave a comment. I'm always up for a new experience and would love to feature local towns and talent here.

Paradise is Closer Than You Think

2012-09-02T12:20:00.000-07:00

Cabo San Lucas, Los Cabos, Mexico

When we first stepped on the plane for the trip over, I settled in for a nice long ride. Just four short hours later, we were at our destination and I was in shock! Traveling to Cabo, Mexico, was a faster trip than one to Las Vegas, Nevada with none of the usual time hangover. Although we did have to switch planes once in Houston, jumping over the Sea of Cortez made this trip faster than I could have imagined. Who knew paradise was so close to my own backdoor?

And, a paradise it was! I had been expecting a lush, green tropical oasis but the stark beauty of the Baja Desert called to me with a song of its own. Miles upon miles of dry and scrubby cactus were astounding and the heat washed over us like a warm hug--not the squelching humidity of other Mexican hot spots. The town of Cabo had a wonderful small town feel to it with meandering streets full of local flavors and ware; the food was authentic and incredible; the people, the most hospitable I've ever met. In truth, I can think of nothing that distracted from pure perfection.

This is one of those locales that has you questioning the purpose of your life. Makes you wonder if your job is really that important. Makes you think that weekend visits with family could easily be turned into yearly skips back home. Still, months after returning home, Cabo San Lucas calls to me like a siren, inviting me back.

Some places not to be missed:

To Do:

Sunset Jazz and Wine Cruise on Tropicat Caramaran. There are literally dozens of choices to take any willing rider out to see the famous Lover's Beach and Arch--pirate boat, sailboat, fishing boat, Sea Doo, etc. We elected to go on the Tropicat at sunset, a huge catamaran. While many in the harbor were loading onto mammoth partyboats full of pulsing music and lights, my party and I quietly stepped on this luxurious boat with jazz playing softly in the background. The trip out and back takes a total of about three hours and the crew is attentive to your every need, filling wineglasses or other mixed drink and keeping the gourmet snacks ready. While the point of the trip is to see the Arch, the travel back and forth is what is truly breathtaking. Before we even left the bay, a pod of Orca whales breached in front of us. While the loud partyboaters were jamming off in the distance, my crew on the sailboat stood perfectly still, watching the majestic creatures play in the water just a few feet from where we stood spellbound. If that wasn't enough of treat, the local sea lion colony had its lone ambassador at point on a rock, calling out and showing off. It felt surreal for this Kentucky girl to have witnessed such beauty. And, all this was before even seeing the Arch, famous the entire world over! For $75 a couple, this experience is bucket-list worthy. For more information, see the website Tropicat
Snorkeling and Mini Sub Dive. There are many ways to see the waters in Cabo and since swimming is not allowed on the Pacific Ocean due to rough waves, you must travel by boat if you really want to experience the beauty of the surf. Again, there are dozens of choices but a true once in a lifetime experience is going down under in a Mini-Sub. The 30-minute independent personal submarine trip will allow you to see ocean life like never before. Unhampered by masks and hoses, the submarine lets you come in contact with wildlife that even snorkelers can't begin to see, let alone touch. Again, the personnel on all the attractions are there to please and the entire trip is one of endless drinks and food and fun. For more information, see the website Oceanus Mini Subs and Cruises
ATV Desert and Beach Tour. It is hard to believe that an ocean location is also the site of one of the most beautiful deserts on earth. This is probably what is most well-known in the area: miles upon miles of free range ATV and dune buggy tours. And, when I say free range, you're not following some man-made trail. You're blazing your own path. The Rancho Carisuva, an eco-adventure company, sits near the Pacific Ocean and is an authentic Baja Californian ranch with all kinds of animals and plenty of things to ride from horses to ATV's. Whatever your pleasure, get ready for an experience you could never even have dreamed up. One minute you're flying over barren desert floors then you're climbing cliff edges then you're skimming along deserted beaches while the spray of the Pacific cools you off. Of all the things I've done in my life, this was truly the most amazing. For more information, see the website Rancho Carisuva

To Eat (or Drink)

Cabo Wabo. Sammy Hagar's famous Cabo location lives up to its reputation. Most nights see big name stars and rock bands on the main stage. On the night we were there, the small stage out front hosted a local band that played some of the finest music I've ever heard. Sitting under the stars, listening to great music and eating $2 tacos (a variety, all of which were delicious! My favorite was the barbecue port and pineapple slaw.) was the perfect introduction to Cabo nightlife. While there, try both signature house drinks--the Waborita and the Wabotini. For more information, see the website Cabo Wabo Cantina
Now I can say I've been to the most romantic restaurant in the world! There is no way even Paris, France could top this place. The Sunset Da Mona Lisa oozes romance from every terraced balcony and chilled wine glass. Combine that with gourmet Italian food and breathtaking views and you have it all. Situated right on the point, the restaurant is only open at sunset and the staff does it up right. An entire sunset ceremony takes place with gongs and everything. While all the food looks amazing, we just had to try steaks and fresh veggies grilled on volcanic rock. For more information, see the website Sunset Da Mona Lisa
If you're like my husband, you hear Mexican and you think Corona! Well, don't be so quick to focus on that beer staple. The Baja Brewing Company can give you something new to appreciate. Located on the Puerto Paraiso Mall at the Marina, the beer and food is made fresh and right on the premises. If anything can compete with the views of million dollar yachts and breathtaking waves of the Sea of Cortez, it is the menu which downplays the truly gourmet burger and pub offerings. Sit outside and you have an entire night's worth of fun watching the eclectic mix of local musicians and travelers from around the world. For more information, see the website at Baja Brewing Company

NOLA-A Grand Old Dame Starting Her Second Rebirth

2012-08-05T16:25:00.002-07:00

New Orleans-The Sinfully, Older, But Wiser, Sister to Las Vegas

My husband and I first visited New Orleans two years after Hurricane Katrina. We wanted to spend our Bush tax dollars on the place that seemed to need it most and New Orleans needed it more than we did. Then, it was a surreal drive--acres of wasting homes and stores and hotels. It truly seemed almost an abandoned city or one that has survived, barely, an explosive bomb.

Today, on our last trip, the change is miraculous. While some sites still remain vacant and lost in the past, most of the city has seen a remarkable regrowth. Every street is full of new stores or shops about to open. The entire city vibrates with excitement, almost as if Christmas is around the corner and NOLA is a child ready to burst loose with excitement!

For those of you who only think of New Orleans in conjunction with Mardi Gras and Bourbon Street, shame on you! This town is a mecca for those who love history, the paranormal and anything related to fun and relaxation. While I hear that experience NOLA during those chaotic times is a bucket list item, don't wait to visit. Right now is the time to go--new hotels, restaurants and museums are open all over the city and are just waiting for that first explosion of tourists. Young or old, party girl or history buff-NOLA has something for everyone.

Some places that are not to be missed:

To Do:

The New Orleans Streetcars I cannot think of a finer way to shed the heat than sitting by an open trolley window, gazing upon Loyola University, stunning parks and antebellum mansions. All this for $1.25 for a one-way ticket. It is truly taking a step back in time. There are three different lines that can take you all over the city and it's an easy hop on and off all day long. You can buy a $5 ticket per day if you're a true explorer like me! Three different routes will take you to Canal Street, Loyola and Tulane Universities, Audubon Zoological Gardens, to the French Market and Aquarium of the Americas. In between are miles and miles of local owned shops, stores and restaurants that must be seen and tasted and heard to be believed. A price for the ticket will be the best $5 you will have ever spent in your life! For more information, check out New Orleans Streetcars
Museums New Orleans has over 45 museums dedicated to everything from surgical instruments and Napoleon to children and art. My favorite, by far, was the National WWII Museum. While I admit to being a bit of a history buff, even my non-history loving husband was blown away by this museum. We had put aside 4 hours to tour this, and found we had only gone half-through by closing time! They had to chase us out and lock the doors. What made this museum so fascinating was the attention to detail and narrative focus. From the very first, I felt as if I were living during that time and experiencing it all. It is truly the finest museum we have ever been to and I admit to losing myself for a big chunk of time in the gift shop. In addition to the museum (which is practically brand-new but already undergoing an expansion), there is also a vintage ice-cream parlor and theatre attached that focuses on the music and dress of that era. Incredible fun for everyone in the family. For more information, check out The National WWII Museum
Ghost, Goblins and Vampires! Oh My! What trip to NOLA would be complete without dipping your toes into something forbidden. And, forbidden abounds in this city, especially at night! The tours are numerous in this city so name your poison. You can dabble in the culinary with a chef tour, travel back in time with a walking history and garden tour and even try your hand at ghost busting with a ghost tour. Me, I decided vampire was the way to go! Is any city more steeped in vampire lore (besides Transylvania!) than New Orleans? Anne Rice would certainly agree with me. Our vampire tour guide led us through dark streets and alleys and spilled the secrets of New Orleans that an average tourist would never know. From the oldest pirate bar in the US to serial killer houses, our vampire tour focused on the weird and absurd. Our guide, with requisite filed teeth (at least, I THINK they were filed) took us on a two-hour tour that proved to me that New Orleans can keep the title of 'most haunted city in the US. To schedule your own brand of sin, visit Haunted History Tours

To Eat (or Drink):

When In Rome, Lafitte's Blacksmith Bar makes up in ambiance what in lacks in food. This is purported to be the oldest continually operating bar in the United States and is a mecca for history buffs. Any given night will find hordes of tourists and a dark corner has some amazing local music. While the drink is nothing to rave about, one should visit just to say you've been there. For more information, visit Lafitte's Blacksmith Shop Bar
Southern Donuts All Day and Night You simply cannot visit New Orleans and NOT try the beignets and chicory coffee. At all hours of the day, all year long (except for Christmas and the occasional hurricane), Cafe Du Monde is doing it right since 1862--serving up mounds of fresh beignets with pounds of powdered sugar. We went when the temperature was approaching 100 degrees at night! But to bite into the first, incredible taste defies description. No matter how far away, we found our way back each night. If you do nothing else, do this. For more information, visit Cafe Du Monde
Beering It Up The Crescent city Brewhouse is the only brewery in the French Quarter. In addition to four unique brews, the brewery also hosts a restaurant in the French Quarter that serves incredible food and drink with walls full of local art and live jazz. The food tastes so much better than pub fare. The Cajun meat pies have to tried and then washed down with the hottest Bloody Mary this side of Hades. If your tongue isn't numb by then, keep right on going to the Crawfish Etouffe. For more information, visit Crescent City Brewhouse

2012-07-02T12:19:00.002-07:00

Venice Beach, Florida

It seems hard to believe that a one-hour drive from Orlando is such a world away from the hectic crazy Florida lifestyle. If you're looking for the Florida of your grandparent's or parent's era, look no farther. Venice Beach, Florida is like stepping back in time, stepping out of the rat race and stepping into pure relaxation.

Venice Beach is primarily known as a retirement location for snowbirds but should be seriously considered as your next Florida vacation. This locale has it all: pristine, uncrowded beaches; quaint downtown with unique shops (where else can you find an entire store devoted to just olive oil so far from Italy?); an abundance of restaurants; tourist attractions that feature history, mystery and more--and all that without long lines of cars on every street!

The beach itself is one of the most beautiful I've ever seen. Miles of turquoise blue water and uncrowded sand all hidden behind untouched dunes. While the water can be chilly and choppy on some days, that much is true of any beach location. The best part was doing something I had only dreamed about as a small child: hunting for shark's teeth! It is one of the only locations I've ever seen where we actually found one! Locals say the teeth aren't as plentiful as they used to be, but industrious diggers can still get lucky!

The beach is a mecca for all ages: in the daytime families with young children build sandcastles and frolic in the sun and at night, teenagers playing cornhole and volleyball compete for space with retired groups playing guitars in old-fashioned sing-alongs drinking wine.

Some places that aren't to be missed:

To Eat:

While at the pier, make sure to check out Sharky's On the Pier. You can eat right on the ocean front while listening to music. Make sure to get there early as there will probably be a waiting list anytime you visit. Trust me, it's worth the wait! The Brie and Apple Pizza was a culinary delight and I'm still dreaming of their giant blue maragarita's--the best I've ever tasted anywhere in my travels. Check out their website for directions and more information: Sharky's On the Pier
Snook Haven Restaurant and Fish Camp has to be seen to be believed. After a drive down a gritty gravel road, you feel like you've driven back in time. Set right beside the Myakka river, you can enjoy authentic Gator Bites, fried okra and other seafood delights. They also have live entertainment many days and nights and take pride in featuring local artists. After eating, there is a riverboat cruise the whole family can enjoy. And, if you're a movie buff, this place claims to be the site of a 1930's Tarzan movie. After visiting, I agree that Tarzan would be right at home in this jungle! Check out their website for directions and more information: Snook Haven Restaurant and Fish Camp
What trip to Florida is complete with orange juice? How about a place that combines fresh-squuezed juice with ice-cream? Make sure to visit Nokomis Groves in nearby Nokomis, Florida. This family run establishment is part-factory and store and part-ice cream parlor. With every citrus flavor you can imagine, Nokomis is always busy so be sure to give yourself plenty of time. And, bring a cooler. They sell fresh-squeezed orange and grapefruit juice that will make you redefine what juice is. Check out their website for directions and more information:Nokomis Groves

To Do:

Consignments Galore! Even if you don't like to yard sale or rummage shop, you must stop by one of the dozens (hundreds, it seemed!) used furniture, clothing and rummage stores. They were on practically every corner and one even specialized in nothing but used books (be still my beating heart!). Some deals we found: practically new golf clubs for less than $30, brand name clothing and purses for my brand-happy teenager, silver and marble serving dish ($3-I triple checked the price!). I could go on and on but delving through the stores was just too much fun.
For history and botanical lovers, check out The Edison and Ford Winter Estates in Fort Myers. This was about a two hour drive but the drive itself was worth it. No interstate option but rather a winding sprawl that crossed into small and beautiful downtowns full of treasures as well as riding right along some breath-taking coast. The Edison estate was home to that famous Thomas and his family and has been restored to astonishing proporations. Not only the Edison home but also a museum and his workshop as well as the home next door of Henry Ford. If the museum and homes don't entrance you, the grounds will. Lush spreads of flowers and trees have to be seen to be believed. Check out their website for directions and more information: The Edison and Ford Winter Estates
Time to Play Tourist! If you want that cheesy tourist day, check out The Shell Factory and Nature Park in nearby North Fort Myers. The retail store has every shell you can think of plus rooms and rooms full of inexpensive gifts, mementos and collectibles. On site, there is a huge zoo with over 350 animals; a fun park with mini golf, bumper boats and paddle boats plus a dog park. While there, make sure to eat at Capt. Fishbones, located on site. As much a museum as a restaurant, their fish and chips was the tastiest we had on the whole trip.Check out their website for directions and more information: The Shell Factory and Nature Park