What reminds you of spring?

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What reminds you of spring?

Someone recently asked me that question and being a pregnant foodie my mind went straight to fresh produce. But not the produce you find at the supermarket! I’m salivating over memories of the huge garden my grandparents had on their farm when I was a child. Grabbing the big juicy tomatoes from the vines and digging up beautiful carrots that we’d carry into the kitchen where my grandma would work her magic. That hands-on farm to table experience is probably what led to my love of farmer’s markets.

It is a universal theme as old as time and with good reason; it was often the only way city dwellers got farm fresh items. Some cities boast permanent markets that are as old as antiquity while other places see new markets spring up in parking lots as the weather warms. Each holds their own unique charm and character.

When I travel I seek them out – La Boqueria in Barcelona, the Ferry Building in San Francisco, even a roadside stall in the Bahamas – but what makes the experience even better is the opportunity to actually take the item from market stall to dinner table.

Wandering the stalls with a local expert who knows the vendors and farmers. The banter and chatter of these “old friends” that at first makes me feel like I am encroaching on a private conversation, but soon includes me because we all speak the language of food. Watching in wonder as the guide scoops up familiar and foreign items squeezing, pinching, and smelling them for freshness as they build a menu in their minds and in our baskets.

In the kitchen I learn to work a little magic of my own as they guide me through preparing dishes familiar to them and special to the place I’ve journeyed to. Even if I can’t understand all the words coming out of their mouth the way they move the knife, toss the vegetables, and turn the meat speaks volumes to me. And that is what this journey is all about – celebrating growth of every kind from garden to friendship to self discovery.

You’ve inspired me

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If there is one thing I know for sure when it comes to a job it’s that it should inspire you. I have spent time in jobs that leave me feeling drained and simply moving from day to day hoping for the next day off. Thankfully I finally found a career that leaves me feeling enthused, refreshed, and, yes, inspired. Over the past few years the places I’ve visited and the people I’ve met at professional events have certainly excited me, but there is one thing that continues to inspire me nearly daily – our clients!

The young woman who comes back year after year knowing what place she wants to knock off her bucket list. She travels far and wide by herself never feeling like she can’t reach these places because she doesn’t have a travel companion. I am honored to help her get there (wherever it may be) safely and comfortably.

On the other end of the age spectrum there is the woman who finally reached an age where she said “if my husband won’t go to Australia with me I’ll go alone!” She went for three weeks and experienced everything she had dreamed of including riding a camel in the Outback. She didn’t need someone to approve of her dream and proved it’s never to late to go for it. Next stop New Zealand!

Or the young female living in Hong Kong working for an American company and not letting anything keep her from making the msot of her time there. Away from family and friends she has been able to meet new people and explore new places. Talk about going outside your comfort zone . . . something I continue of dreaming to do one day, though hopefully with my husband and child in tow.

The repeat clients who’ve faced health scares from heart attacks to cancer and come face to face with the fact that no one lives forever. So many big birthdays and milestone anniversaries. Celebrate – when it all comes down to it that is what is important. Just celebrate and embrace being here, being with someone special, or whatever is important to you in your life.

It isn’t about the destination, but the journey and feeling alive. And if they’ve truly taught me anything it is that inspiration should permeate your whole life.

What inspires you and where is it taking you?

Carefree returns

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Regardless of your choice of destination or vacation activity the ultimate goal tends to be relaxation and coming home feeling rejuvenated. Have you ever had this bliss dissipate as you stepped through your door to your house and you realized there was laundry to do, bills to pay, and work the next day?

There are a few things you can do ahead of time, however, to make your return carefree and extend that vacation glow a little longer so you fully realize the benefits of that hard earned time off.

Ease yourself into real-life: If you can, build in a day or two at the end of your trip to have free at home prior to heading back to work. This will allow you to slowly get back into the swing of things and give you time to unpack and reorganize the house and your life.

Think about the tummy: The fridge is most likely empty (or at least I recommend emptying it pre-trip so you avoid any nasty surprises upon your return) and you are probably starving when you get home since those stale pretzels and salty peanuts on the plane just didn’t cut it. With a little planning you can avoid the take-out siren call and put off the grocery store run until the next day. Make a few freezer friendly items before heading out of town and you’ll be ready to nosh on some healthy foods to keep your happiness high going. I really enjoy the cookbook Make Ahead Meals Made Healthy by Michele Borboa, but there are plenty of websites, cookbooks, and even grocery store options to fit all tastebuds and kitchen skill levels.

Use online bill pay: Many people utilize this year round, but it can be especially important while you are on vacation. Avoid the worry of forgetting to pay a bill or returning to a huge pile of them in the mail. And while you’re online don’t forget to file the form to have your mail held for pick-up while you’re away. You won’t start picking through a pile of junk right away and it is much safer than having a stack of mail reveal you’re not home.

Avoid chore overload: No one wants to return to full trash cans, dirty laundry, and a mile long list of chores. Extend the pampering feeling of doing nothing with a quick clean up prior to heading out of town – empty wastebaskets, clean the bathroom, dust, and drop laundry at the cleaners. While you’re at it put clean sheets on the bed and make sure it is made before you leave. It might not be turn down service and a mint on the pillow, but it will definitely make you feel wonderful your first night home.

Returning home doesn’t have to be a letdown. With a little planning you can extend the relaxed feeling of being away long enough to return to real-life fully rejuvenated.

 

Touring: It’s not what you think it is!

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File off the bus along with fifty other people and follow the leader with the big purple flag and megaphone while they spew facts like they are a recording. This is what people typically think of when they think of taking a “tour”. I agree it doesn’t sound very appealing or enlightening.

Is this a tour?!?

I don’t know how many people have told me “I don’t want any tours” yet they have no idea what they are looking at or where they are going once they get to their destination. Relying on guidebooks and websites can be helpful (even though they are out of date as soon as they are published), but the misconception about “touring” options leaves out a large portion of what excursions actually are like.

Why wander around with your nose in a book or staring at the screen of your phone or tablet? You miss so much on your way to that final stop! Instead open your mind up to a few other options such as a small group tour or private guide.

In a small group you can ask questions, get into places that larger groups can’t go, and because they tend to be themed options (think food and wine, literary lovers, or art collectors) you will be with like minded people that you might even become friends with. I have had so many clients come back from trips with a new pen pal half way across the world because they were on the same tour and hit it off. The couple from Minnesota who met a couple from Switzerland that shared a passion for nature and have now cruised together twice since meeting on a hiking tour. Or a tour with Mary Ann, a spunky Aussie who knows the food and wine purveyors of Adelaide so well she can get you into tasting rooms not open to the public and convince a vintner to open a bottle of wine that typically sells for close to $200 free of charge so you can take a little sip!

 

Having a drink with some wine loving "friends" I just met.

 

If you have no desire to be with complete strangers while you see the sites you can always go the private route. With so many people enjoying this option it has become much more affordable, especially in major destinations. You can tailor the time you spend with this person to your areas of interest and ask plenty of questions. They also tend to be locals or people who have lived there for several years so they know the hidden gems that never make it in guidebooks or online. Think the academic in Rome who takes you for espresso in a little shop that looks like you are walking into someone’s living room or the architect turned guide who knows exactly when to visit the Colosseum to avoid the crowds and see the sun hit the structure in a way that makes it glow.

I have so many great stories of clients who have seen a place in a way they never imagined because they opened their minds to the possibility that “touring” is not the touring of yesteryear, but an updated option that can bring you closer to the locals, teach you more about the destination than any guidebook, and make for a much more enjoyable experience. So the next time you head to a new destination consider an option that hooks you up with a local or a small group of fellow travel enthusiast and you might be surprised at what you discover.

Melding the best of both: Costa Rica for a little birding and beach time

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I’ve never really paid much attention to birds and to be honest after seeing Alfred Hitchcock’s The Birds at the age of twelve I was slightly dubious of them. But one of the perks of what I do is getting to see the passion people have for things I don’t know a lot about and helping them take those interests around the globe.

This unfamiliar interest and skill recently joined forces with my travel knowledge to create a beautiful weeklong journey to Costa Rica. The destination has been growing in popularity in recent years and some of the major sites such as Arenal, Monteverde, and Guanacaste have become busy with visitors. So we veered a little from the typical to get to the beach and cloud forest without compromising their limited time there.

Upon arrival in San Jose they were quickly whisked away to Villa Blanca which is one of the America’s most outstanding wildlife sanctuaries. With eight distinct ecological zones, over 400 species of birds, and 100 species of mammals it is a nature lovers paradise. Of course, the hotel isn’t bad either. As my client’s described it – simply amazing!

Wonderful on-site guides at Villa Blanca can open your eyes to this amazing ecological reserve and point in the right direction for self exploration as well.

The Rufous tailed Jacamar - one of many birds found at Villa Blanca Reserve.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Fitting in some sun and sand without the crowds was easy when we arranged for a stay in Jaco at the Punta Leona. This is where Costa Ricans go to get away so you’re sure to meet a few locals and get a feel for real local life. Really it is the best of both worlds because the small town is so laid back, but still provides all the excitement you are looking for with plenty of shopping, dining, and nightlife.  Don’t think for a minute that you are leaving all the beautiful wildlife behind however, you will still find hundreds of species of birds and mammals as well as easy access to tropical forests, mangroves, and waterfalls to explore. The Costa Rican salutation of ‘pura vida’, pure life, describes the area perfectly.

The Turquoise-browed Motmot seen at Punta Leona - just one of the 160 birds knocked off the list during the trip!

 

 

 

The stunning view from my client's balcony at Punta Leona.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Helping people who I share a passion with is always exciting, but working with clients who have an interest I’m unfamiliar with can be truly rewarding because It allows me the opportunity to learn something new and meld my knowledge of travel and destinations with their knowledge to create an experience they will cherish.

Happy travels!

Finding local favorites even when you travel

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Birthday cake. That is how you are supposed to celebrate your big day each year, right? If not cake, at least a special treat to celebrate another sweet year of life. Last week for my birthday I decided for the first time in several years I wasn’t going to make my own special treat. I didn’t want a boxed cake or something from a mass market store so I was thrilled when I stumbled upon a story in one of our small local newspapers, City Pages, about a cupcake shop that was located not far from our house.

I had never even heard of the place and it was located in a residential area so I knew it would be right up my alley. Sweet Bebe Cakes made my special day even more enjoyable and certainly tastier. Even as a local I hadn’t heard of this place so it got me thinking about all the great places I’ve stumbled upon or discovered in destinations I’ve visited far from home.

It is easy to plan a visit to places such as Chez Panisse in Berkley or the Louvre museum in Paris, but what about the little Italian café, Mocca, we sought out in San Francisco’s Union Square area or the art gallery/coffee shop 20 miles outside Queenstown, New Zealand? My husband isn’t always thrilled with the search that is often required to find these off the beaten track places, but they end up being some of our favorite stops along the trip.

So how do you locate local finds like these?

Local newspapers: Before heading to a new destination look online for the local papers. The dining and arts/culture sections are usually full of new openings and reviews of old favorites. Since these are written for the locals you are sure to find a few options that won’t be overcrowded and aren’t typically visited by out-of-towners.

Local news stations: This can be a great place to find out about special events for while you’re in town and even more restaurant reviews and openings. Their websites are full of information and sometimes deals.

Apps: There are some great apps out there and even more in development. I love using Urbanspoon, Farmers Market, Finder, and Local Eats when I travel. Whatever your hobby or interest there is bound to be an app for you.

Personal connections: Of course posting on your social networks is a great place to start when you are looking for new places to try. Your friends tend to have similar interests and tastes and if they’ve been there they will probably share a few favorites. Another great option is to work with a specialist or expert on the location who has a few favorites from their own visits and probably knows a few locals who can spend a little time with you and show you some of their favorites (more on that in a future post).

If you aren’t afraid to venture outside the main areas of town, head into a residential area, and mingle with the locals I’m sure you will find some of your favorite spots where you least expect them.

Happy searching!

Chile: Glaciers to wine glasses

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Two of my clients recently returned from an unforgettable trip to Chile and were nice enough to allow me to share some of their photos and comments.

Usually when people think of Chile they imagine the fertile wine valleys and the lively cities of Santiago and Valparaiso. Just like my clients more travelers are beginning to seek out the often ignored areas in southern Chile such as the region of Patagonia. This beautiful region offers views of beautiful mountains, wildlife, and glaciers that shine with a gorgeous blue hue.

A great way to see it all is from one of the small cruises that navigate the channels and lagoons allowing guests to get up close and personal with the wildlife and the glaciers . . . you might even get the chance to chip off a little ice for a lowball of whiskey to warm you up.

 

 

 

 

Of course, they couldn’t leave Chile without a winery stop or several. The valleys of central Chile are home to world class large wineries as well as boutique vineyards each with two things in common – delicious wine and people with passion for what they do. Time here will be filled with amazing architecture, phenomenal food, delicious wines, and an unmatched atmosphere for exploring and relaxing.

 

William Cole Winery

Vina Indomita

Lapostolle Winery - the owner's wine collection

 

 

 

 

 

 

Lapostolle barrel/tasting room - what a beautiful space!

Taking a ride through the vineyards at Laura Hartwig Boutique winery

La Casona Winery - a great way to start a journey of central Chile and end the day

 

Romantic getaways for the whole year

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Happy Valentine’s Day! Of course, with our hectic lifestyles many of us don’t get to celebrate this day of love on February 14th which can actually be a good thing. Why not spread the love throughout the year and celebrate what makes your relationship special whenever it strikes your fancy or your calendar is clear.

So here are five ideas for a romantic getaway for V-Day or anytime you want to spend some quality time with your honey.

Island Escape – Rarotonga,  Cook Islands 

Hit the beach, soak up the sun, and enjoy the peaceful island life of Rarotonga, Cook Islands. This isn’t your typical island getaway. Here you’ll be treated like a local instead of bombarded with the tourist mentality that infects other islands. You’ll feel so at home you might even consider relocating to this little piece of heaven.  Start your day strolling hand in hand along the deserted beach then spend the afternoon making your way around the whole small island. From your day bed on your expansive deck you can watch the sun rise and set on a leisurely day or you can head for the hills with Pa, a local character all his own, for a more active day. With all the noise of the world stripped away you will leave this place refreshed, relaxed, and definitely reminded of why you love each other.

City Getaway – Rome, Italy

If the island life is to slow for you consider a city getaway where the romantic holiday got its start – Rome, Italy.  Things have changed a lot since Saint Valentine inspired our current traditions, but you will still find the beauty and the culture inspires love and romance. Experience true Italian luxury and hospitality with a stay at the St Regis Grand Hotel, the first five star deluxe hotel in Rome opened in 1894 they obviously know how do things right. Even though all that pampering might make you want to stay in your room make sure you get out to climb the Spanish Steps, do a little shopping, dine al fresco, and of course throw a coin in the Trevi Fountain to ensure a future return with your lover. Hopefully your stay will leave you with a sense of amore and many memories to hold you over until you return.

Country Relaxer – White Sulphur Springs, West Virginia

Leave the fast pace and electric chatter behind and head to the country where you’ll enjoy Southern hospitality and hear plenty of “yes ma’am/sir”. The Greenbriar is known as America’s Resort for good reason and the expert staff will prove it to you throughout your stay. Opened in 1778 this beautiful resort has served presidents, celebrities, and others looking for a little relaxation, fun, and pampering. Work out the kinks at the five star spa before enjoying activities in the fresh air – hiking, biking, horseback riding, or anything that the two of you might want to enjoy together. After working up an appetite you won’t be disappointed with the fresh meals prepared by Executive Chef Richard Rosendale and his staff who just won the Bocuse d’Or USA finals. Don’t worry about feeling isolated or bored here because the resort also offers a casino and a wonderful concert series throughout the year to keep your evenings hopping. You don’t have to hit the international skies for a relaxing and romantic getaway when you look to America’s past for some inspiration.

Unique Sleepover – Sydney, Australia

Ever wonder what happens at the zoo after all the guests go home? You can find out on this unforgettable “camping” overnight at the Taronga Zoo. Relax in your luxury tent, dine on a gourmet feast, and enjoy up-close animal encounters. With beautiful views of Sydney Harbor on one side and the cute animals on the other you won’t know where to look. I guarantee the cute animals will eventually win your attention as you and your sweetheart enjoy a night safari, get to cuddle a few of the Australian icons, and start your day with behind the scenes tours. With the views, the calming effects of the animals, and the unforgettable memories you can cuddle up knowing you’ve shared something special.

Arabian Nights Adventure – Dubai, United Arab Emirates

Live the magic of this classic tale as you experience the ancient culture and beauty firsthand. As you head across the sand dunes atop your camel and experience the beauty of the local culture with belly dancing, music, and traditions you are transported into the past and a million miles from your everyday life. With that special someone by your side feast on Middle Eastern cuisine as the stars shine bright above you. The fires casting a romantic glow across the sand and illuminating the night you can’t help but be drawn into the romance and the magic of the moment. A once in a lifetime experience to respark that fire inside the two of you.

An unforgettable moment, a challenge, or a break from your everyday might just be what love called for. Take a break from the treadmill of modern life and reconnect with that special someone!

Nothing like Belgium chocolate this Valentine’s season

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Chocolate is everywhere right now! With Valentine’s Day just around the corner you can find special chocolates everywhere from the gourmet shop to the local gas station. Of course, there is something to be said for how much a high quality piece of chocolate means on this special day. All the work and care that goes into a good piece of chocolate besides the tantalizing taste . . .

Another place chocolate has cropped up is in my client’s itineraries. Working on a special honeymoon to Europe I had the pleasure of creating a custom walking tour based on an interest in chocolates. You will find artisan and mass market chocolate shops all over Europe, but a few cities are so coated in chocolate they are worth a sweet excursion. One such place is Bruges where you’ll find waffles, lace, and of course CHOCOLATE!

This city is so crazy about their chocolate skill that they have a whole musuem dedicated to the history and modern practices of this artform from cocao to ganache. Choco-Story is where I’m recommending my clients start just to get a little appreciation for what they will see and taste in the shops around the city.

From there the possibilities are endless! If you wander with your eyes wide open and your noise searching for the smell of melting chocolate you are sure to find hidden gems, tourist favorites, and everything in between. That is why I’ve listed a few places to head to, but always recommend letting your tummy do the leading and if something gets your tastebuds going stray from the set path and indulge.

Jan Klerk Chocolatier – Academia Straat 19 – This little shop is Jan Klerk’s only shop in the world. Handmade chocolates at a reasonable price.

Van Oost Chocolate Shop – Wollestraat 11 – A favorite with the locals you will find many specialty chocolates such as unique truffles, ganaches, and chocolate covered caramels. Don’t miss the handmade pralines!

De Proeverie and their sister shop Sukerbuyc – Katelijnestraat 6 – At De Proeverie grab a cup of their famous hot chocolate and then head across the street to Sukerbuye (I love that it means sugarbelly!) for a few chocolates to go.

Chocolatier Depla Pol –  Mariastraat 20 – This shop sells some of the city’s finest hand-made chocolates, particularly truffles, florentines and marzipan.

Dumon – Simon Stevinplein 11 – The go-to place for artisanal chocolates and a favorite among locals and visitors. Well known, but still small you can be sure that each piece of chocolate was handmade and will satisfy.

Galler Chocolates – Steenstraat 5 – Known for modern chocolates this is one of the most well-known brands of Belgium chocolate. Feel like trying your hand as a flavor master? Try their Kaori box!

Spegelaere - Ezelstraat 92 – Bruges’ best kept secret: all chocolates are made on site. The house special is a bunch of grapes made from marzipan covered in black chocolate.

Just to give fair warning – you will probably walk away with a belly-ache or an extra suitcase of chocolates. Either way you won’t be disappointed!

 

Tips for protecting your valuables while abroad

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I still remember my first trip to Europe- the Eiffel Tower, the fries with mayonnaise in Amsterdam, the canals of Venice, and, oh yeah, the theft on the subway! You’re crammed in the tight quarters and little hands seamlessly find their way into your money pocket and the next thing you know they’re gone.

Pickpocketing will never be eliminated and theft can happen in even the safest cities, but there are things you can do to protect your belongings. Recently, I met with several travelers traveling abroad for the first time and our discussion inspired me to share a few tips and some of my favorite products for enjoying your time abroad without worrying about constantly checking for your wallet.

Safety starts with always being aware of your surroundings and your belongings. As you always hear at the airport don’t leave your things unattended as unwatched items are ripe pickings for sticky fingers. A few other things you can do to protect yourself:

- Verify your hotel room safe actually works before leaving anything valuable in it

- Use the hotel safe

- Make a copy of both sides of your credit cards and keep it separate from your cards just in case your wallet gets taken so you can call and cancel any stolen card

- Don’t carry large amounts of cash on you and don’t show your cash off when getting into your wallet

- Carry a bag you put across your body which will make it more difficult to snatch

- Put your wallet in your front pocket if possible

There are a few products I like to recommend to help keep valuables safe while traveling.

The Dovetail Set: This set is perfect for women. It is slim and doesn’t cause the unattractive bulk under clothes that many other money pouches do.

Travelon bags: These are my favorite bags for going abroad when my nice purse just won’t cut it. With locking compartments, cut-proof straps, and separate pockets and slots for organization and safety.

Pacsafe: The variety of products available is amazing. Portable travel safes that fold flat and can be locked to a stationary item, portable door locks, arm bands to put your wallet and other small belongs in, etc.

No matter what remember to put your personal safety above your possessions – it doesn’t matter what you are carrying it is not worth getting hurt over. It is always better to hand over your cash and walk away than fight to keep it.

Safe travels!