My Mélange

Love Thursday | French Cheese

2009-07-16T07:00:00-04:00

I have been on an Italian kick for a few weeks now. But, this week, I had a huge craving for French cheese. Aka, fromage. I remember how much I love it- and decided to dedicate a Love Thursday post to it!

Voila!

Italy certainly has some simply fab cheese- Bufala Mozzarella, Pecorino Romano, Parmiggiano Reggiano.

But France. France has hundreds of delicious cheeses.

Goat, Bucheron, Brie, Bleu, Gruyere, Camembert....just to name a few and scratch the surface. Care to see a list?

General Charles de Gaulle was quoted as saying "How can you govern a country which has 246 varieties of cheese?"

I don't care as much about the governing, as much as I care about the cheese. I would love to eat my way through the long list of each French cheese, before I die. Or maybe I should say, I'd like to die trying.

Nothing is better than grabbing a selection from a Parisian cheese shop, stopping for your French baguette on the way, and plopping yourself down on the banks of the Seine in Paris to have your picnic.

A pungent, hard crottin of goat cheese. A moldy, tangy bleu. An ooey-gooey melt-in-your-mouth brie or a fresh and creamy fresh goat.

Oh, I love them all. Never met a French cheese I didn't like!

How 'bout you? What kind of French cheese do you love?

Happy Love Thursday everyone!

Travel Tip Tuesday : Carry-On Measurement Restrictions by Airline

2009-07-14T07:00:00-04:00

By now you better know that I am a huge proponent of traveling light. Carry-on only is what I reccommend, for reasons too many to mention today.

But contrary to many beliefs there isn't an industry standard. Each airline actually has their own requirements in terms of carry-on bag dimension and weight. And they differ greatly. Mainly by weight.

I have put together a little guide, to take the confusion out of carry-on travel. It is important to have this info before choosing an airline to fly with and before leaving the house (with a possible overweight bag).

I have listed airlines that travel from the U.S. to both France and Italy. It is in no way a complete list of all airlines, but more-so the ones with which I am most familiar.

The restrictions listed are for economy class only. Honestly, if your in first class, you probably have no worries about checking bags. In fact, you may not bring bring any baggage and just buy a new wardrobe once you get to your destination. Lucky you.

If I have left one airline out that you know of, or would like me to add a specific airline to the list, please let me know in the comments and I will do my best to update the list and keep it a current, living-breathing document available for you to consult whenever you are considering carry-on only travel.

Restrictions will be different for domestic flights, usually more generous. All weights and measures are provided in Imperial. Inches and pounds.

You can use this site to convert to metric.

In the chart below, bag refers to a carry-on, while pi refers to a personal item, like a purse or laptop bag.

# of Bags Max Dimensions Max Weight

American Airlines 1 bag, 1 pi L + W+ H = 45 in. 40 lbs

Air France 1 bag, 1 pi 22 x 14 x 10 26 lbs

Alitalia 1 bag, 1 pi 18 x 14 x 10 11 lbs

British Airways 1 bag, 1 pi 22 x 18 x 10 13 lbs

Continental 1 bag, 1 pi 22 x 14 x 9 none listed

Delta 1 bag, 1 pi 22 x 14 x 9 40 lbs

Eurofly 1 bag L+ W + H = 45 in. 11 lbs

KLM 1 bag, 1 pi 22 x 14 x 10 22 lbs

Luftansa 1 bag, 1 pi 20 x 16 x 8 18 lbs

Northwest 1 bag, 1 pi L + W+ H = 45 in 40 lbs

Swiss Air 1 bag L + W + H = 45 in. 18 lbs

United 1 bag, 1 pi L + W + H = 45 in. none listed

US Airways 1 bag, 1 pi* 26 x 14 x 11 40 lbs

Virgin Atlantic 1 bag 22 x 14 x 9 13 lbs

* US Airways actually restricts the dimensions of your personal item to 21L x 16W x 8H.

The information contained here was current when published. However, we all know the

airlines change their policies like you change your underwear- so for the most up to date

information, I suggest you consult an airline's website directly.

Don't forget to check out Cherrye's Travel Tips today!

Those Roman Doors

2009-07-13T07:00:00-04:00

As promised, I have finally gotten around to show you my collection of Roman door pictures.

If you missed it, I have previous photo posts of French Doorways, Roman Windows the Campo dei Fiori market and what you see Behind the Italian Doorways.

So, without further ado, here are my favorite Roman doors!

And my personal favorite, I saved for last.

Now I need your help! Many of these will be made into cards and prints. Question is: which ones?

I'd like you to help me with that by voting!

The last and personal favorite is a given. But, why not tell me which cards- by number (from 1 to 22) you think would make great cards.

You can vote for as many as you like!

I'll get around to Roman Door Knockers and Street Signs in the coming month. Stay tuned!

And thanks for playing along.

Foodie French Friday: Macaron

2009-07-10T07:00:00-04:00

Macaron {mah kah ronh}

As a kid growing up I watched my grandmother enjoy macaroons {mack ah roons}. The coconut ones. Yes, the ones that weigh five pounds per cookie. And leave half and inch of residual oil behind on your fingers. That is what I thought was a macaroon.

And then before I went to Paris, all I heard was how I had to try macaroons.

Imagine my surprise when I got to Paris, entered Ladurée for the first time, heard them pronouned mah kaaaaaraaah (not very tasty sounding. more like something the cat would cough up) and saw them available in a rainbow of colors and flavors.

Macarons - these are not your Grandmother's macaroons!

The Short Guide to Foodie French, says this about macarons :

If the word looks like "macaroni", it also shares it etymology, since the French macaron (spelled macaroon in English) allegedly comes from the Italian maccherone or maccerone, describing a kind of pasta.

It seems the macaron dates back to the middle ages, but the word, first recorded in French in the 16th century, suggests the pastry was imported during the Renaissance. Also known as massepain in some parts of France, the macaron is a round- shaped cookie with a crunchy crust and a soft interior, made of almonds and a merinque preparation. It may be flavored with chocolate, vanilla, honey or coffee.

The fancier Ladurée macarons found in Paris are quite different from the original recipe as they feature two macaron shells stuffed with ganache and come in just about any flavor and color.

For the most inventive macarons, we must thank pasty master Pierre Hermé for his creativity, which earned him worldwide recognition. Indeed, his creations can be found in both Paris and Tokyo. For typical traditional handmade macarons, those of Boulay, located in the Moselle province of Lorraine, are bound to please one and all, as well as the Saint-Emillion macarons, near Bordeaux. For free samplings, note that macaron day is celebrated in France on March 20th. "

I have had the pleasure of taste-testing some of the best macarons in Paris. At Ladurée, Pierre Hermé and Lenôtre.

Ladurée still remains my fav- perhaps because of their divine packaging or because of their elegant and sophisticated salons. It could also be the memory of my first light, crunchy and creamy bite that took place at the Ladurée on the Place de la Madeleine.

In addition to the flavors listed above, you can enjoy raspberry, basil, lemon, violet, lime, mint, and rose.

Have you ever had macarons? What did you think?

Roman Windows

2009-07-08T07:00:00-04:00

Oh there is just something about those old Italian windows. You know by now that I have a fetish for windows and doors, among other things.

Last week I showed you a collection of photos sneaking a peak behind Italian doorways.

This week, it's windows.

The older, the better. Paint peeling- even better still. And there is just something about those shutters that send my heart thumpin. Pitter-patter. Pitter-patter.

Shuttered or plain, open or closed, with or without flowers cascading down the front - I love them all!

Enjoy some of my favorite Roman windows.

Which one is your favorite?

Travel Tip Tuesday - Ten Tips for Being a Good Houseguest

2009-07-07T07:00:00-04:00

A few weeks ago, a good blogging friend of mine wrote to me, telling the story of the horrible experience she had putting up a family member in her home for a ten day vacation.

She was nice enough to open her house, for free, to a cousin who was old enough to know better and I was just appalled at some of the things this so called "houseguest" did. I could hear and see the frustration in her voice and quite frankly I felt that she has been wronged- and I was going to do my part to try and make it right.

I am not going to get into the specifics here, not because I'd like to protect the guilty (she deserves to be shamed) but, more so to protect my friend and keep her in her family's good graces.

I thought we could all learn a few things from her experience. So, I'll offer some tips on How to be a Good Houseguest.

For the purpose of this post, we will define houseguest as someone who is invited to stay, free of charge, in a friend or family member's home. There is a big difference between a houseguest and a paying guest in a hotel. Please, keep this in mind.

1. You are your own maid. Whether you keep your own home spic and span or you live in the sheer filth of a pig sty, in someone else's home, you need to be a clean freak. Make your bed, don't leave things strewn all over the house, straighten the bathroom, fix your own meal and do your dishes, clean up after yourself. If you make a mess, clean it up. Do not expect maid service as a houseguest! End of story.

2. Ask and adhere to the house schedule. There is a good chance that the family you stay with is NOT on vacation, and must go about their normal lives, with you in the way. Schedule your shower, any food preparation and approved computer and electronic time around the family, so that you don't disturb them. This way you won't be spending hours in the shower, holding up someone from getting to their job- which incidentally pays for the house that you are staying in, free of charge.

3. Contribute something. Remember that boatload of cash you are saving, staying with family for free? Well, why not pay it forward? Offer to take your hosts to dinner one night. Or cook them dinner at home. Buy some groceries, bring your host a bottle of wine. Anything, really. Just show your appreciation!

4. Just because it is there, doesn't mean you should use it! Ask before helping yourself to things in the home. Ask to use the computer, the stereo, the TV. If you want to watch a movie (when no one else is using the TV of course) make sure you have someone show you how to properly operate remotes and electronic equipment. The last think you want is to break something or cause your host anguish over reprogramming or diagnosing an issue that you created.

5. Don't bring unwanted visitors. This is a big one! Remember, you don't live in this home. It is never appropriate to bring a stranger (read axe-murderer) into the home without permission. And certainly not for a one-nite-stand sleep over. If you need to meet up with someone, do it in a public location- like a restaurant or a park.

6. Don't expect to be entertained. Bring your own chock full, pre-planned itinerary and make sure to have plenty of things to do. You can certainly ask for suggestions, but don't expect travel agent or concierge service. Nobody wants you lazing around the house all day in your pajamas, either. Unless otherwise discussed, you must assume your hosts will go about their daily lives- shuttling kids, working, shopping and things they must do during the day. They are not your personal entertainment. Nor should you expect them to be your personal taxi cab!

7. The computer is not yours. If you want to use it, again you ask. If the only convenient time is 2am, then guess what? That is when you use it! Otherwise, bring our own laptop (hey, what a novel idea) or find a close internet cafe where you can surf to your hearts content! And for goodness sake- do not visit inappropriate web sites or download programs and hundreds of vacation photos without permission!

8. Remember who pays the utilities. Long after you leave, the utility bills will start rolling in. No one wants to see an additional $75 phone bill or that you ordered 10 pay-per-view movies without even a mention. Don't use the hosts phone for calls. Pay for any movies that you ordered. Don't take 3 hour showers or leave every light on in the blessed house when you leave or turn the the air-conditioning on full blast, when the fan would do just fine. Be aware that your presence will automatically increase utility bills and do your part to minimize those charges.

9. Do your laundry. Offer to wash your sheets and towels when you are leaving. Remake the bed with fresh sheets before you go. Clean your room. Leave it just like it was when you arrived. It should look like you were never there.

10. Say thank you. And then follow it up by sending a thank you note when you get home. This should go without saying, but Emily Post and Amy Vanderbilt wouldn't have it any other way. It is the right thing to do. And your host will be more likely to invite you back the next time.

As a little bonus, I am going to throw in a few tips for anyone considering opening up their home to someone for a vacation stay. Please give it the serious consideration it deserves and make sure you set boundaries and communicate said boundaries long before your guests even set foot on your doorstep.

If your rules are not followed, or you feel you are being disrespected in any way, remember whose house it is and don't hesitate to supply your guest with an already prepared list of several nearby budget hotel options (handwritten on elegant paper and tied with a pretty ribbon of course) and show them the door.

I know some of you out there have horror stories just waiting to be told about unruly houseguests! Now is your chance. Share your stories in the comments. And what additional tips can you offer one for being a good houseguest?

And I know Cherrye's might have a few stories, since she runs a B&B. Visit her for more travel tips today!

Rome - It's Not My Italy

2009-07-06T07:00:00-04:00

You may remember that my first trip to Rome was a bit of a debacle. It wasn't exactly on my list of the Top 5, not even my Top 10 places to return to in Italy.

But, then a ridiculous airfare deal just dropped in my lap...and I am not one to say no to anything related to Italy, easily.

So, we decided to give Rome another shot.

I was practically convinced that this trip to Rome would be so much better.

Why, you ask? Well, several reasons. Let's touch on them quickly, shall we?

1. We only visited Rome for 3 days the last time, which certainly wasn't enough. Armed with seven whole days, and a promise not to visit any museums, or repeat anything from our last visit, we were confident we would have a slower pace to take it all in.

2. In the months leading up to our trip, I had met some fabulous on-line friends who were going to be in Rome. A few even live there. Both expats and Romans alike. One in particular promised me that she would show me her Rome. How can you go wrong?

3. We were not staying in the touristy city center. This time we picked a cute Roman neighborhood. Surely that, plus my lists of must-eat trattorias, wine bars and cafes would go along way to keeping us happy.

So, with a whole week, no real plan, no museums, a camera, a fistful of Roman contacts, a positive attitude and an open mind, we headed for Rome. To give her yet another chance.

But like last time, we don't get very far before problems arise. A problem with the plane, reroutes us back to our gate. We arrive in Rome four hours later than scheduled.

Next we find that the trains which we planned to take into Rome are not running. No explanations, no confirmed strike. Just a lot of shoulder shrugging and an eerie silence in the train station.

An hour later and 65€ poorer, we were finally dropped off by taxi in front of our Bed and Breakfast, on a brightly lit afternoon. In 100 degree weather. In May. When average temps are normally a pleasant 70 degrees. Our luck had placed us in Rome at the exact time that a heat wave decided to grace the city.

And did I mention that I don't do heat? Which is why we didn't travel in say, July.

Which brings me to our accommodations. Oh, there was air conditioning alright. On a timer. From 8pm to 8am. Which incidentally is the coolest part of the day.

Oh, and then there was the fact that this was supposed to be a working vacation.

Brought the Blackberry and the laptop for just that purpose. Except the blackberry wasn't working and neither the B&B owner, nor I could figure out how to connect to the free-wifi.

So this was our second attempt at a nice Roman welcome. Yeah, right. I think the Roman welcome wagon lost a few wheels and was skidding out of control, headed straight for the Roman ruins.

For the life of me, I can't figure out why when Rome knows full well that we had a hard time getting there the last time, she would make it so hard for us to return- even with our open minds and hopeful hearts.

Rome was off to less than a stellar second start.

The rest of the week proved to be scorchingly hot. We scaled back on many of our fun-in-the-blinding- hot- sun daytime activities and sought shelter under the umbrella shaded tables where we enjoyed early lunches and followed them up with late afternoon siestas in our non-air conditioned room, sans clothes and sheets.

Most of the rest of the week was enjoyable and uneventful, except for the fact that on one of the last trains back from a get together with friends in Garbatella, I got off the Metro stop and, well, Chris didn't.

Oh and the time we took the bus, in the wrong direction, all the way out to the Termini station. And the time I almost got strong armed by a Italian secret service agent guarding a door when I tried to snap a photo of said door.

We did have a great time, wandering the smaller streets of Rome, exploring our Monti neighborhood, meeting up with friends, writers and fellow Italophiles, taking photo after photo, doing research for trip planning and experiencing some of the best pasta, wine, cappuccino and espresso that Rome had to offer.

But through it all, I felt like I was missing something. I couldn't quiet put my finger on it. It really wasn't a tangible thing. It was more like a feeling.

I never got that warm and fuzzy feeling I had when I spent time in other parts of Italy. Like in Venice, Tuscany or Florence.

Visiting those places made me want to live there. I felt a connection. But with Rome, even the second time around, not so much.

In Rome, I was missing that feeling. That connection. Rome is a big city- and I am not really a big city girl. But I think it runs deeper than that because Paris is also a big city, but in Paris, I had the feeling.

Unlike Paris, Rome is not a place where you simply stroll along the river, because the river is cloudy and there is really nothing charming about the quays. There is no ivy dripping down the walls, there aren't any boats trolling tourists to and fro, no neon-signed bars on anchored barges with a sophisticated vibe.

I think Rome is more of a gritty city. If Rome could talk it think it would say:

"Take me as I am- I don't care if you like me or not. I am not gonna change for you. Graffiti will stay where it is, I will not pretty myself up for anyone. I have survived thousands of years, there is blood on these streets, you wouldn't believe what I have been through, I could tell some grizzly stories. So, I have earned my right to be just as I am. Take me or leave me, I don't care. And if you don't like it...I'll kick your ass! You got something to say about it? "

And there is nothing right or wrong about that. It's just the way it is.

So after sitting with all of this for a month or so after my return from Rome, I think I have learned several things that I'd like to share.

First, and most importantly, I am still in love with Italy, but Rome isn't really my bag baby. Rome, is not my Italy.

And I say that from the standpoint of someone searching to find a connection with an area in Italy that will make me happy and comfortable spending considerable amounts of time, and possibly living, in.

And in this case, Rome will not be my home.

Don't misunderstand me. Rome is a city not to be missed. For its history, its architecture, its churches, its food, its people and its culture. For visiting.

Will I visit Rome again? Absolutely. Will I continue to recommend it to clients, plan trips, give restaurant suggestions? Most definitely.

And though I won't be headed back on the next flight to Rome anytime soon (simply because there are so many places in Italy I have yet to explore {Calabria, Liguria, Cinque Terre, Umbria, Piedmonte} and need to find my Italy) there are still many layers of Rome that I need and would like to uncover at another time down the road.

Secondly, I also learned Rome is best explored in small doses, not for weeks at a time or years on end. Perhaps my love for Rome will grow years from now, when I can visit for just a few days at a time, as a weekend getaway perhaps. Or while getting together with the native Romans and expat friends who call Rome home, sharing stories about their Italy.

For now, I will have to be content with helping others explore Rome through my eyes, now somewhat clouded.

But, I still long for the day that I can appreciate Rome as an expat, while living in my Italy. Wherever my Italy happens to be.

Travel Photo Friday : Florence

2009-07-03T14:11:00-04:00

Welcome to another Travel Photo Friday! Can you believe it is July already? Where has the year been going?!

Since we have been focusing on Rome for the better part of two months, I thought it might be nice to change it up a bit.

So, I chose one of my favorites from Florence, Italy.

Now, keep in mind, this photo was a color image, but through the magic of Macbook iPhoto editing, I am able to give it a sepia tone, which if I do say so myself, makes the picture come alive.

The picture was taken from the Ponte Vecchio, which crosses the Arno River in Florence.

I love how the bridge acts as a perfect separation from the sky and the river. I love the cloud patterns, the texture of the ripples on the water, the gorgeous lines and arches of the bridge and even the tiny shadows on the water created by the arches.

I could seriously stare at this one for hours.

And if you'd like to see more of my photos, is just so happens that Julie is featuring another of my Rome beauties on her blog today as well.

And in case you haven't noticed, my Travel Photo Friday well has run dry and I need your photos. That was the whole point afterall.

So, all you travelers out there- please send in your photos-the ones that tell a story, the ones the feature something spectacular, the ones that give you that special feeling when you look at it, along with a short description and you'll be featured here!

Send them along to me at mymelange (at) yahoo (dot) com. And join me for next months edition on August 7th.

And to all those celebrating, Happy July 4th!

Cacio e Pepe

2009-07-02T07:47:11-04:00

Cacio e Pepe is a delicious authentic pasta native to Rome.

And though is tastes sinfully complicated, it is seriously the easiest pasta to make.

But, as in most Italian recipes, the best quality ingredients that money can buy should be used.

The three ingredients: pasta, pecorino romano cheese and lots of freshly-ground spicy black pepper. Alright, maybe you need to add a little bit of butter and some pasta water- but still, so easy!

And though it is a classic Roman dish, it is no surprise that each time we ate, no, rather inhaled it, it was different.

Not really good or bad, but slightly different. Some were creamier, some were cheesier, some had more pepper. And then there was the oh-my-God-my-mouth-is-on-fire kind of spicy.

If you are headed to Rome- stop by your nearest trattoria. It is part of an unwritten Italian law to have it on the menu. And I dare you not to want to order it again before you leave!

In fact- I think I would tell you to leave any trattoria that didn't have it on the menu. No self-respecting Roman trat would be caught dead sans Cacio e Pepe.

Have you ever had Cacio e Pepe? What did you think?

Travel Tip Tuesday - More Ridiculous Airline Fees

2009-06-30T08:05:47-04:00

I while back, I had written about Rising Airline Fees.

First it was charging for blankets, pillows and water.

Next came fees for checking a second bag. Then some went a step further and charged a fee for checking any bag.

And here we all sat wondering. Waiting for the other shoe to drop. What would the next round of fees bring?!

Well, last week the wait was over.

And I am warning you. You'd better sit down for this one.

US Airways and United will being charging a $5 fee- wait for it, wait for it- for actually paying another fee.

That's right folks a fee on top of a fee!

And it is getting downright disgusting.

Apparently if you pay your checked bag fee on-line when you book- you are receiving the "online discount" !? Oh, excuse me if don't jump for joy.

If you don't pay the fee online, you are penalized and charged five bucks at the airport.

United started charging the fee on June 10th, while US Airways will implement it on July 9th.

I mean c'mon. What am I missing here? Is it me or do the airlines think we are stupid? Am I the only one that feels like someone should just look you in the eye, remind you about the poor state of our economic affairs and simply ask me to pay five damned dollars more for my ticket.

I think I'd be more than happy to do it. And the airline would benefit as well. After all, think of all the money they will save on medical bills. No more iirate, frustrated passengers slugging airline customer service personnel at the check-in counter with the very bags they are being overchanged to check.

Savings should be in the millions!

And if you think that is the most shocking fee I have to tell you about, think again my friends.

Apparently, RyanAir, the discount European airline that already charges its customers for uh, checking in (5€ for on-line check in and 10€ for checking in at the airport) is exploring charging customers for using the lavatory. A fee to pee. And for, pardon my French, barfing in a bag.

Let's think about that last one for a moment, shall we? So, you are feeling sick on the flight. You know it's coming. You press the call button, wait for the flight attendant to come, dig out your money to pay for your barf bag and wait for the flight attendant to return with it.

And by the time he/she does, instead of a barf bag- me thinks they should be charging me a clean-up fee. I'll save the coin and just use the seat pocket in front of me, thankyouverymuch.

I would never, ever, fly an airline that charged me for involuntarily carrying out bodily functions. Would you?

So, just as we did last time, we wait. Wait to see what other stupid, dehumanizing fees the airlines can cram down our throats.

What do you think? Getting tired of these silly fees? What ridiculous travel fees have you encountered or heard of lately?

Time to fly on over to My Bella Vita for Cherrye's Travel Tips. And the best part- no additional fees to get there!

Are you a Journeywoman?

2009-06-29T07:00:00-04:00

Well, I sure hope you are. I know I am!

Journeywomen is an unbelieveable resource for all those traveling gals out there. It is the ultimate online site for women travelers.

Journeywomen offers advice on shopping, travel, packing, destinations, spas, restaurants, solo travel and so much more! You can sign up for the free newsletter, read the featured website of the week and browse through a veritable smorgasbord of travel related info.

The media has recognized Journeywomen over 300 times and the site receives over a million visitors a year! Must be doin' something right.

And now, there is something else that Journeywomen has. My contributions!

That's right, CEO and editor Evelyn Hannon, (@Journeywoman on Twitter) was kind enough to ask me to participate in a special feature on Italy travel for women.

About a dozen Italy experts (myself included) offered up some great tips on visiting Italy. Mine were centered around women traveling to Italy, alone.

So, if you haven't heard of Journeywoman yet, now is a great time to pop over and read Experts Share Tips About Italy With Journeywoman.

***

And if by chance you are arriving here for the first time from the Journeywoman site - let me give you a warm welcome! Or should I say, Ciao?

Grab some coffee, browse my travel tips, recipes and musings about Paris and Italy. If you don't want to miss another post, you can subscribe through RSS or through email. Just scroll up to the top right hand sidebar and click on the RSS button, or enter your email addy and hit subscribe.

It's that easy!

You can also follow me on Twitter. I am @MyMelange.

And why not end with the question we started with? Tell me why you are a Journeywoman? Why do you travel?

In Mourning

2009-06-26T07:00:00-04:00

We are postponing Foodie French Friday because I am mourning the two great losses yesterday. Unfortunately, I just don't have the heart to wax poetic about French Food.

Sadly, Farrah Fawcett lost her battle with cancer yesterday. She was a brave, dignified, talented and classy lady. Right up until the end.

I know it was the teenage boys that were swooning over that famous red bathing suit poster tacked up on walls all over the country. But, seriously, what teenage girl didn't want to be one of Charlie's Angels and strike that pose?

You shall be missed.

And then the blow of Michael Jackson.

My God, you were a talent and a gift. An über star. The King of Pop is what they called you.

Thriller was the first album I ever owned. Many memories were created with that cassette, blasting from my Panasonic Boom-box in my backyard by the pool in the summer of '83. We mimicked your moonwalk, we grabbed our crotches. We danced. We sang. We did the "kick". You were cool.

I wore that poor cassette out. I think it finally gave out, shredding from over use.

My personal favorite on the album. Beat it.

In junior-high, I roller skated on the weekends to Billy Jean, Don't Stop Till You Get Enough and PYT. In high school, I did many a cheerleading routine to your songs.

And Thriller introduced me to music video.

I smile for the adorable, talented and charismatic 5 year old on stage, with his brightly colored outfits and obvious sparkle in his eye. He had the it-factor. That smile, those eyes, that voice.

But I am sad for the impossible and violent childhood he must have had to endure. Sad for the man he never got to become as a result of being trapped in that same childhood.

All the freakish surgeries, all the allegations, all the strange behavior seems to point to a tormented man.

But, tormented no longer. Hopefully at peace.

Enjoy Neverland Michael. You earned it. You Rocked!

Rome From Sunset to Sundown

2009-06-24T08:23:54-04:00

Here is a collection of my favorite shots of our most recent visit to Rome, taken from sunset to the dark of night.

Care to share your favorite?

Oh, and speaking of favorite, you might remember my last Travel Photo Friday | Caption This post. I needed a caption for my silly photo. Well, I have picked a winner.

First, I must say how amazing it is that each person that looks at the picture sees something different. I love that about art. Everyone has their interpretation. Isn't that great?!

My favorite caption was "Statue of Libutty", posted by Vicki Floyd!

Vicki, your little prize will be on its way.

Thanks to all of you who commented! You really entertained me. Such witty readers I have!

Travel Tip Tuesday | My Top Five New Travel Sites

2009-06-23T08:21:49-04:00

Well, at least they are new to me.

Travel sites pop up on the Internet like spring daisies after a wet winter. I always keep my eye open for new favorites. Here's the short list of my Top Five New-To-Me Travel Sites.

1. Do-Hop. How can you not like a name that conjures up images of hopping from place to place- and having somebody routing you on? Do-hop is a lightening fast search engine for cheap airline tickets and flights. It searches about 600 airlines around the world. A search for hotels and even a travel guide section are bonuses.

2. Ruba Travel. A picture is really worth a thousand words. And if you're like me, you can often see pictures of a place and think "Man, I have to go there". Well, Ruba is your site! Ruba is a collection of photo travel guides, put together by real travelers. And some of these photos are stunners! The best part? Each photo is linked to a Google map, so you can see exactly where it is. Why not sign up and make your own Ruba guide?

3. SimonSeeks.com. They bill themselves as the "You Tube of Travel." It's a travel guide site written by travelers, celebrities and journalists. They submit quality stories and users rate them-the higher up the chain, the more the writer gets paid. Writers categorize their stories to make it easy for the reader to find what they are looking for. You could enter "Churches in Rome" rather than just Rome to read what your interested in. You can filter your results further by budget. The site partners with many big name travel sites- so you can even book right from the site!

4. Oyster Hotel Reviews. This new site strives to compete with the big boys like Frommers, Fodors and TripAdvisor. A team of full-time journalists, take scads of pictures, sleep in the beds, talk to other guests staying there and then report back. Instead of tiny snippets of info, you get more like a magazine length feature. And each hotel reviewed has a small overview with a gorgeous photo and a short pro and con list. The best part- it's all impartial. Reporters pay for their rooms! And no red carpet treatment- hotel managment doesn't even know they are coming.

5. Bing. It's a Microsoft product. But let's overlook that unfortunate fact and give them a chance. Bing is calling itself a decision search engine (huh?). It offers airfare and hotel reservation tools, but also brings in the addition of travel news and info. It looks (and feels) an awful lot like Kayak and Farecast, but some have reported that Bing has returned lower fares than the others. It's worth playing around with it- especially if it saves you some cash in the end.

Have you tried any of these new sites? Share you thoughts! Or tell us about a new travel site that I haven't mentioned.

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And Do-hop on over to My Bella Vita for Cherrye's Travel Tips!

Behind Those Italian Doorways

2009-06-22T08:21:15-04:00

Call them loggias, call them porticos or call them courtyards. Call them what you will. But hiding behind doorways of giant magnitude is sometimes a world unto its own.

By now, you should know that I have a fetish for doors. I have waxed poetic about them before. And I will soon do so again with my most recent Italian door pictures.

But sometimes, it is what is behind the doors that make my heart go aflutter.

I love walking along and seeing into these private little areas.

Sometimes, an automatic garage door opens and before your very eyes, you can see a car backing out and for a hot second, you get a sneak peek into a decorated courtyard.

I am always a sucker for decorative wrought iron gates and ornate dangling light fixtures.

How 'bout a closer look ?

The more ornate the better. I just love the pretty leaves on this gate. Simply stunning.

Columns, peeling paint and arches also go along way with me.

It feels a little sneaky, getting such an up close and personal look, especially when you aren't sure who is going to come out.

Other times, the doors remain wide open - almost as a welcoming gesture.

And though some interiors seem simple and bland..

It is what is peering out of the tiny notched opening that draws the eye in closer and makes you wish you could run up and touch it!

But perhaps my favorite is one that I could see myself coming home to everyday.

I think perhaps it is because of the dark and mysterious shadow of the motorcycle rider.

Or it could be the perfect combination of all the things I adore. The arches, columns, peeling paint, rows of lights and tons of wrought iron. And both natural and artificial light.

Which one could you see yourself coming home to every day?

Foodie French Friday: Crêpes

2009-06-19T07:31:55-04:00

Hope you're hungry, 'cuz it is time again for another Foodie French Friday.

This week were are talking crêpes.

Acoording to The Short Guide to Foodie French, Crêpe pronounced [krep] is " a very thin pancake, briefly fried on both sides on a very hot and large griddle. Crêpes are often sprinkled with sugar or stuffed with a variety of sweet pastes or jams."

The French do have a favorite topping : Nutella, a popluar hazelnut spread (maple syrup has not seemed to reach France in any great quantity).

A specialty of the Brittany region, the salty version of the crêpe made using buckwheat flour bears the name galette.

In France, national crêpe-day is February 2, a celebration called Chandeleur.

Seriously, you gotta love a country that not only invented the crêpe, but dedicates an entire day to celebrating them! Add to that the fact that the French love to add Nutella as a fiiiling and I dare any one of you to fault me for being a staunch Francophile. Actually, I double dare ya!

I have made both sweet and savory crêpes. My favorite sweet fillings are, Nutella and strawberry, Nutella and banana (are you begining to see a pattern here?) butter 'n sugar and even Crêpe Suzette, which are filled with two of my all time favorites-oranges and booze. Yep. Grand Marnier.

Oh. My. God.

And my savory favs? Well, those include cheese, any and every kind, but I am especially fond of Gruyère. The gooier, the better. And to the oozing cheese, I like to add ham, onions, spinach and/or mushrooms in any combination.

I have a standard go-to crêpe recipe that I use to make them at home. But while in France, and Paris specifically, I love to grab both sweet and savory from street vendors and stroll the cobbeled streets near the Seine, eating my French street-food. Sure as hell beats the view from my kitchen window!

And though I do enjoy making crêpes at home, I simply adore stumbling onto them when eating out. I have found really great crêpes in my neck of the woods in both Newburgh and Hudson, but also in Montreal. (No huge surprise, since Montreal is French-Canadian!)

But without a doubt, the most authentic and delicious crêpes are best enjoyed in the country that both invented and honors them with a national holiday.

Crêpes. France just wouldn't be France without 'em.

How 'bout you? Do you like crêpes? Where have you had them? What's your favorite filling?

Campo dei Fiori

2009-06-17T07:49:38-04:00

I love me a good food market. The food markets of Europe can't really compare to anything where I live. Sure, we have farmers markets in the summer here, but not on the scale that Italy and France do. I have fond memories of the Marche d'Aligre in Paris. And who could forget the Jean-Talon Market in Montreal?

Campo dei Fiori in Rome is yet another one not to be missed.

First, there is the location. Beautiful square. Surrounded by caffés and trattorias. Right in the heart of Rome. And a lovely statue presiding over the market.

Flowers at the first booth as you round the corner are spread out like natures rainbow.

And the food. Oh the food. This is Italian foodie heaven.

Zucchini blossoms as big as wisk-brooms, perfect for frying.

Ruby-red ciliege, cherries just waiting to become a crostata.

Carciofini, little artichokes, so purple they look bruised.

Piselli, peas, from the Lazio region. I love how they tell you that on the sign.

Willow laundry baskets full of fresh salad greens. The peppery arugula, rucola in Italian, perfumed the whole area.

And speaking of perfume- the herbs were incredible! Basil so fragrant I could just taste the pesto!

Sun-dried tomatoes. From Tunisia. Everything here looks bigger, fresher.

Even the lemons looked like little footballs. I could see some serious limoncello in their future!

I even saw things I have never seen before. Check out these fagioli, beans. I have a scarf that color.

Or this agretti, which looks like an herb, but is more of a vegetable. Looks kinda like chives, though since I haven't had the pleasure of sampling it, I couldn't begin to tell you what it tastes like.

And there isn't just fruit and veggies here. No, no- there is a little bit of everything. Every spice known to man.

Porcini. Ohhhh Porcini. How I love thee.

Plenty of balsamic vinegars to sample.

And I think you'd be able to spot the fresh fish booth, from almost anywhere in the market, don't you?

What's your favorite market- Italian or otherwise? What is the strangest thing you have ever seen or bought at the market?

Travel Tip Tuesday | What's the 3-1-1?

2009-06-16T12:31:11-04:00

Unless you have been living under a rock for the past few years, you know that if you are going to travel with only a carry-on bag, you're restricted on the amount of liquids you can take with you.

Well, since I consider myself the Queen of the Carry-On Bag, I thought I'd help show you how easy it is pack those liquids accordingly.

People tell me that I am crazy. Can't believe that I can travel for 10 days, even 2 weeks, following these strict guidelines. But I am here to tell you that regardless of my mental state (the jury's still out folks) with a little prior planning and some helpful tips- you can do it too!

The 3-1-1 rules basically state that ALL liquids in your carry-on bag must be in three ounce (or smaller) see-through containers in a single, clear, quart-sized ziploc bag. Sounds like no easy feat, but trust me-it can be done!

Wanna know how? Let's get started then, shall we?

1. The first thing I'll tell you not to do it purchase one of those silly ubiquitous kits with nothing more than four, 3oz bottles in a plastic case. There is no way I'd be able to survive with only FOUR containers. Skip this kit and build your own using a regular quart-sized ziploc bag.

2. Figure out what liquids might qualify for a medical exception. If you have any kind of liquid medication or even contact lens solution that you can get a doctor's note or perscription to prove a medical necessity for, they can be brought in larger quanities and are not required to be in your one quart bag. However, you must declare them to the security personnel before your luggage gets scanned.

3. Replace popluar liquids with non-liquids. Be creative here. There are many products that you can eliminate. Hu-lo ladies - I am talking to you! One example is perfume. They make perfume solids now that would not need to be part of your one quart bag. Many companies know this and are jumping on the travel-friendly bandwagon. You can refer to my other post for more ideas on how to ditch liquids from your Carry-On.

4. Get the most out of the liquids that you do use by bringing products that can do double-duty. I love multi-tasking products! Hair condidtioner can also double as shaving cream. You can more ideas in my Doing Double-Duty post.

5. Share the load. This works especially well if your travel companion happens to be of the male persuasion. Think about it. Men tend to need less liquids than women do, especially mine who happens to be folliculely-challenged, ie no shampoo, conditioner or hair gel needed! If there are a few things you can't fit in your quart-sized bag, ask your travel partner if they can fit a few things in theirs.

6. Ask yourself if you really need it? C'mon - do you really need shower gel? Can't you live with bar soap (a solid, and therfore isn't subject to the 3-1-1 restriction) for just a week? Do you really need three different shades of lip gloss? Pick the most neutral color that goes with everything and just deal with it! Paring down is the only way you are gonna make this work!

7. Don't always use the whole 3 ounces. It is doubtful that you will need 3 ounces of hair gel or moisturizer for a week-long getaway. You may need only 1ounce, maybe even less. Take much smaller quantities of your liquids and that way you can fit more products in your bag.

8. Save samples and travel-sized products. Not only can you use the products to take with you, but those really tiny containers come in handy for future 3-1-1 packing. These are what I use in my quart-sized bag. As long as they are clear, they fit the bill. An added bonus - it's good for the environment to recycle those containers!

9. Just buy it there. Rather than trying to jam something into your quart-sized bag, liquids that you'll need large quantities of are best left to be purchased at your destination. Sunscreen for a beach vacation is a perfect example. If there will be a few people sharing and it will be used often -it makes good sense to wait. And so what if you have some leftover at the end of your trip? Pay-it-forward. Leave it for the next traveler who may not have packed theirs either.

Do you have any helpful tips on packing your liquids to meet the 3-1-1 requirements? Share them in the comments.

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Don't forget to hop on over to see what tips Cherrye has today!