Our friends, Alanna and Bob, and proprietors of The Inn at Whiskey Bella Ranch shared this signature recipe with Culinary Latitudes Travel. These scones taste traditional in every sense. The Inn at Whiskey Bella Ranch is sharing this tasty recipe for their signature scones. The chef is a personal friend of mine and said this recipe is the requested the most by their guests. Enjoy!
** Note (from Alanna) - here in Colorado, the dough is very dry, so I add just a bit more buttermilk, and I dump the dough on parchment paper in order to press it into the correct shape. Then I can use the parchment to help me roll the dough into a nice rectangle before cutting and freezing. The parchment paper has saved my life with this recipe.
Blueberry Scones
This is a signature dish at Whiskey Bella Ranch in northern Colorado. Guests ask for the recipe over and over again. Enjoy!
3 and 1/4 Cups Flour plus 2 Tablespoons
1/2 Cup + 2 Tablespoons granulated sugar
1/4 Cup brown sugar
1 Tablespoon baking powder
1 teaspoon baking soda
1 1/4 teaspoon salt
1 Cup unsalted butter
3/4 Cup cold buttermilk
Zest of one lemmon
1 1/2 C Blueberries (I freeze them overnight before I use them)
Preheat oven to 350 degrees. In a very large bowl combine the first five ingredients. Throw in the butter and work it with your fingertips until the dough is pea and lima bean sizes. Add the buttermilk and lemon zest and toss to combine.
Immediately dump everything onto a clean surface with more than enough room to work the dough. (Alanna with Whiskey Bella Ranch uses parchment paper. It helps with shaping and cutting the scones.). Using only the heel of your palm quickly flatten the dough. Gather the dough back into a mound two or three times and repeat. The dough should begin holding together. Avoid overworking the dough. You should still see some pea size pieces of butter through it.
Pat the dough down to about 3/4 inch, and make a 9 x 12 rectangle. Sprinkle the frozen blueberries on top evenly and begin to roll the dough like a jelly roll with the blueberries inside. Shape into a 12 inch long cylinder. Lightly flatten the top and cut out 9 or 10 triangles. Transfer to an un-greased sheet and freeze for at least 2 hours prior to baking. Or freeze up to one month tightly wrapped.
Remove scones from freezer and place on two un-greased baking sheets with plenty of room to breath. Brush with an egg wash and sprinkle liberally with granulated sugar. Bake from frozen until cooked, nicely brown, and easily lifted off pan. About 25 minutes.
April is a time when folks are feeling flush, so why not spend those much-deserved tax refunds on a trip somewhere exotic? As springbegins to emerge, it’s the ideal time for a long-haul splurge, whether to Europe or Asia. Plus, almost anywhere you travel now, the first blossoms will be budding—and the flowers themselves can be reason enough to make a trip. Here is our pick of the seven places to travel in April.
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Tohuku, Japan
Spend that refund on a long-haul trip to Tokyo, where thousands of cherry trees or sakura burst into bloom each spring and mark the end of winter (April 1 is the start of the academic and financial years in Japan). The Japanese cherish this tradition, so symbolic of the fleeting nature of life since each flower lasts for little more than a week. While you're there, make sure to take part in hanami, a ritual which literally translates as ‘looking at flowers': To make like a local, pick up a seasonal bento box from a supermarket and head to a park for an al fresco lunch under the branches. You can track this year’s projected peak blooms by area and, per that forecast, the best places for bloom-spotting this April are north of Tokyo in the Tohoku region. Try the hipster-heavy city of Onagawa, which has rebounded strongly since it suffered extensive damage in the 2011 earthquake. Later in the month, head to the top of Honshu island to Hirosaki Castle, renowned as one of the best places in the country for hanami: the centuries-old keep sits in a small park that’s crammed with more than 2,500 cherry trees.
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Amsterdam
Picture a rowdy, raucous mashup of St Patrick’s Day and Mardi Gras, and you’re still not close to the annual King’s Day or Koningsdag celebrations that sweep the Netherlands on the last Saturday in April each year. It’s the official, rather than actual, birthday of the monarch—currently, King Willem-Alexander (until he took over from his mother, Queen Beatrix, in 2013, it was long known as Queen’s Day). Celebrations start the evening before—King’s Night—with street parties across the city, and continue the next day with more partying and huge flea markets selling trinkets and food. Just make sure to pack some oranje clothes if you want to fit in: the Dutch festoon themselves in their national color for the day. Even better, April marks the peak of Dutch tulip season, so you expect riots of color both across the revelers and in the parks around them.
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Buenos Aires
Buenos Aires is a popular winter sunspot for northern hemisphere types, but the muggy Porteño summer can make exploring the city unappealing. Come instead as fall begins in April, with the foliage gently turning and daytime temperatures consistently in the 60s and 70s (bring a light sweater for the cooler evenings). The city’s annual answer to Tribeca, BAFICI, turns it into a hub of Spanish language indie cinema for ten days, while the Nuestros Caballeros riding showcase offers the chance to experience Argentina’s horse-made culture first-hand. Hole up in the Faena Hotel + Universe, a sprawling hotel-cum-culture complex that singlehandedly helped revive the historic Puerto Madero neighborhood. And don’t miss a cocktail in the award-winning basement speakeasy, Floreria Atlantico, hidden beneath a chic flower shop.
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Malta
This tiny island nation’s hub, Valletta, snared designation as a European Capital of Culture this year. That honor has helped spotlight a country whose strategic location saw it passed between successive empires, each leaving indelible legacies: north African-influenced architecture, Sicilian-style food and British politeness—not to mention several branches of U.K. department store-slash-national treasure, Marks & Spencer. This month, the country’s calendar includes the three day-long Fireworks Festival and a chance to gorge for the day on locally produced strawberries, known across the Mediterranean for their sweetness, in the village of Mġarr. Mark the Easter weekend here with a trip to the sister island, Gozo, where the Christian holy day is splashily marked—even non-believers can try a slice of figolla, the moreish Maltese Easter cake filled with almonds.
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Zambia
April is shoulder season in Zambia, with the downpours of the artfully rechristened Emerald (or wet) Season dwindling but the heat, and prices, of high season not yet in full force—making it an affordable time to travel there. It’s the first month when weather makes the country widely accessible, so while the parks are usually quieter, the landscape is lush and green in the Lower Zambezi: many birds burst into full breeding plumage (look for heron and stork nests in the trees) and the impala begin calving. More than anything, though, it’s the finest time to witness Victoria Falls: The waters will be at their maximum, plunging noisily more than 300 feet, and the river is high, making water safaris more viable. Try a dual location safari from Robin Pope, to explore the Luangwa Valley and Lower Zambezi.
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Alaska
There’s still ample powder for outdoor adventuring this late in the season, especially if you want an extreme adventure with former Olympian Tommy Moe, who co-owns Tordrillo Mountain Lodge, a short flight out of Anchorage. (One recent storm in Alaska dumped 10 inches of snow in an hour.) Come here for an all-inclusive getaway packed with extreme sports like heli-skiiing, snow hiking and fat biking. Combine it with a trip to nearby Denali National Park, the six million-acre wilderness that’s home to North America’s tallest peak, the namesake, 20,000-foot mountain.
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Montgomery, Alabama
This month, another noteworthy monument joins the impressive haul in Montgomery. The National Memorial for Peace and Justice and the Legacy Museum will host a two-day summit over its opening weekend aimed at exploring issues of justice in America. The two new institutions join the Maya Lin-designed Civil Rights Memorial and Center, plus the Freedom Rides Museum and Rosa Parks Library, in a city where the Civil Rights movement is considered to have begun—it’s where Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. began as a pastor, and where Rosa Parks was first arrested for refusing to cede a seat on the bus in 1955. These new memorials, set in and around a six-acre park, will act as a further reminder of struggles, both past and ongoing.
We are sharing this great article with you so you will feel informed and ready for travel! For great ideas on places to visit check out this site: CULA Travel - Travel with Taste! Travel should be relaxing, so how come we get home from vacation feeling more exhausted than before? Make everything smoother with these expert travel tips.BY JONATHAN THOMPSONArticle by: Jonathan Thompson, Fashion BeanExperienced travellers know that everything from overpriced flights and foreign transaction fees to the dreaded middle seat can put a serious damper on an otherwise perfectly planned trip.
Travelling can be complicated - but it doesn’t have to be. Whether you’re scouring the internet for the best flights or landing at a destination for the first time, there’s a hack to help you out.We asked a collection of leading experts and professional frequent fliers for their best tips, tricks and shortcuts to make your next travel experience a cheaper, smoother and more relaxing one. If you’re in it for the long haul, here’s what you need to do…
LAND ON THE BOOKING SWEET SPOT
"A good rule of thumb is that Tuesdays are usually the cheapest days to book air travel," reveals Phil Bloomfield of Cheapflights.co.uk.“Generally the best fares are advertised 50 days ahead of departure, with the most expensive being three days beforehand," he continues. "Always fly in the evenings when you can. Aside from Fridays, the most affordable flights tend to be those which take off between 6pm and midnight."
BREAK YOUR JOURNEY, NOT THE BANK
"Flying indirectly with a short stopover to simply switch planes can often save you large sums, while adding relatively little to your journey time," Bloomfield says.
This means more spending money for a better hotel at the other end, too.
DITCH THAT WHEELIE BAG
“Duffels make better cabin luggage than wheelie bags,” says Lee Thompson, co-founder of solo adventure travel specialists Flash Pack.
“Many budget airlines are now getting stricter with their carry-on rules, and wheelie bags are always the first to get checked," continues Thompson. "A duffel is much more flexible when it comes to onboard storage and you can often fit more possessions inside them from the outset too. The real trick is to invest in a one with hidden wheels, like the Eastpak Strapverz, for the best of both worlds.”
“Many budget airlines are now getting stricter with their carry-on rules, and wheelie bags are always the first to get checked," continues Thompson. "A duffel is much more flexible when it comes to onboard storage and you can often fit more possessions inside them from the outset too. The real trick is to invest in a one with hidden wheels, like the Eastpak Strapverz, for the best of both worlds.”
GO FAR, FAR AWAY
If you’re travelling to de-stress, putting a lot of miles between you and the office / ex / family is the best way to ensure genuine rest. In a survey by the Institute of Applied Positive Research, 84% of people said travelling to other countries was the surest way to beat stress.
This confirms a separate study by Twitter, which found that users’ posts are happier the further away from home they’re geotagged.
SANDWICH YOUR SEATS
If you're travelling as a pair, always book “sandwich” seats - the aisle and the window seats in a row of three. Unless it’s a full flight, it’s unlikely that anybody will then pick the middle seat, ensuring you have the entire row to yourselves. If somebody does end up between you, simply ask to switch seats so you can sit next to your partner.
Dallas Morning News (via StarTribune)
READ BETWEEN THE LINES AT SECURITY
"If you’re in a hurry, don’t just look at a line’s length - look for the scanners that seem to be filled with frequent travelers, like businesspeople," says Mark Sansom, editor of Food And Travel magazine.
These people will have mastered the art of getting through quickly. Meanwhile, avoid any lines filled with people who will undoubtedly take more time, particularly families with young children.
ADAPT EASILY IN A CHARGING CRISIS
Every now and again, we all forget to pack the right international adaptor. The good news is that it shouldn’t affect your ability to charge your phone.
iStock
As long as you’ve packed your standard charger, you can simply plug the lead into the USB port on the back of your hotel TV.
TO ROCK A LOOK, ALWAYS ROLL
“To maximise luggage space and minimise creases, always roll your clothes when packing,” says Sloan Sheridan-Williams, spokesperson for accommodation portal booking.com.
Not only will your first-night wardrobe be ready to wear, but this technique also provides useful safe havens for delicate items like electric toothbrushes, razors and chargers.For make packing a breeze, check out these 5 suitcase packing hacks!
CAP YOUR SHOES
Whether your shoes are dirty when you’re packing them - or they get muddy during your trip - that's an easy way to prevent them from marking the clean clothes they’re now bag sharing with, according to Sansom.Simply grab a cheap shower cap to place them in during transit, and prevent any dirt from getting on your clothing.Packing a small tumble dryer sheet for a fresh smell in your luggage is always a good idea too.
DON’T PAY TWICE FOR CAR INSURANCE
“Once you’ve decided on the right car hire deal, only buy the basic package,” says Thompson. “Sometimes daily insurance can cost many times what it’s actually worth, as car hire firms make their profits by selling add-ons, which can be absurdly expensive. Instead, arrange your own cover beforehand - or get a general travel insurance package which covers car hire too.”
BOOK EARLY
As well as saving money, booking a trip well in advance also has big psychological benefits. A Dutch study in the journal Applied Research in Quality of Life (which sounds like a must-read title to us), found that holidaymakers are happiest not when they’re on holiday, not when they get back, but when they’re looking forward to it. By booking early, you maximise that excitement and anticipation - even if your productivity checks out early because you’re Googling pictures of your destination at the office.
TAP INTO FREE WIFI
As you’re walking around, plenty of places will have free Wi-Fi, but they’ll probably be password protected - and they won't give out that password if you aren't making a purchase. “Sidestep that problem by checking FourSquare, where previous visitors will often post passwords,” says Sansom.
Certainly beats paying the equivalent of another air-fare in roaming data costs.
COMBAT JET LAG BEFORE IT EVEN HAPPENS
"It might sound obvious, but leaving home well-rested will minimise any subsequent jet lag," says Sheridan-Williams. “Ensure you have a relaxing 48 hours before your departure, and pre-prepare a chilled playlist to help you zone out in-flight.”
SLEEP OFF YOUR JET LAG
To further minimise holidaying like a zombie, the Sleep Foundation recommends choosing a flight that gets you to your destination in the early evening, and staying awake until around 10pm local time.
Set your watch to your new time zone as soon as you board the place and, unfortunately, you’re going to need to avoid caffeine and alcohol in the three to four hours before you go to bed.
PRE-MAP YOUR DESTINATION
"Download the area you're travelling to on Google Maps before you leave home," urges Thompson. “The GPS in your phone will work without using mobile data, and with a downloaded map you'll always be able to navigate your way around an unfamiliar area.”
ALWAYS MARK YOUR CHECKED LUGGAGE AS FRAGILE
“[Marking your luggage "fragile"] is a great way to ensure that your baggage is handled correctly,” says Thompson.
iStock
“Your luggage will be kept at the top of the pile because of this, which will make it one of the first bags to be released too.”
BUILD YOUR HEAT TOLERANCE
If you live in a moderate climate and holiday in the tropics, the danger is that you spend your entire vacation in the shade because you can’t stop sweating in the sun. Fortunately, multiple studies have shown that you can increase your heat tolerance simply by exposing yourself to it in the days before.
iStock
Hit the sauna or sign up for a hot yoga class and your body won’t get a heat shock when you leave the arrivals lounge.
STAY HYDRATED WITHOUT LEAKING MONEY
Plane filtration systems might ensure a clean environment for passengers - but they also ensure parched throats, dizzy heads and a higher risk of jetlag. Luckily there’s an easy fix: “Invest in a reusable water bottle that looks great and does good,” says Thompson.
“Just take one to the airport empty and fill it up once you’re past security. Something like BRITA’s fill&go Active bottle is ideal: it even improves the quality and taste of tap water.”
STAY AWAY FROM THAT PESKY COLD
Flying can dry out the membranes in our nose - which, when moist, help keep germs moving to flush them out of our system. This can be easily solved with a saline spray you can find in most drugstores - as well as making sure you stay hydrated. Even getting in some of the steam by having a good whiff of your pre-flight coffee is worth a try.
NEVER ORDER THE TAP WATER ON A PLANE HOME
Speaking of hygiene, there’s a damn fine excuse for having a beer instead of water on a plane.
iStock
A study by the Wall Street Journal tested tap water on 14 international and domestic flights. They found everything from salmonella to tiny insect eggs. Likewise, don’t ask for ice if you’re flying from a country with a suspect water supply. The trays will have been filled there, not at home.
GO FAR, FAR AWAY
If you’re travelling to de-stress, putting a lot of miles between you and the office / ex / family is the best way to ensure genuine rest. In a survey by the Institute of Applied Positive Research, 84% of people said travelling to other countries was the surest way to beat stress.
This confirms a separate study by Twitter, which found that users’ posts are happier the further away from home they’re geotagged.
If you're travelling as a pair, always book “sandwich” seats - the aisle and the window seats in a row of three. Unless it’s a full flight, it’s unlikely that anybody will then pick the middle seat, ensuring you have the entire row to yourselves. If somebody does end up between you, simply ask to switch seats so you can sit next to your partner.
READ BETWEEN THE LINES AT SECURITY
"If you’re in a hurry, don’t just look at a line’s length - look for the scanners that seem to be filled with frequent travelers, like businesspeople," says Mark Sansom, editor of Food And Travel magazine.
These people will have mastered the art of getting through quickly. Meanwhile, avoid any lines filled with people who will undoubtedly take more time, particularly families with young children.
ADAPT EASILY IN A CHARGING CRISIS
Every now and again, we all forget to pack the right international adaptor. The good news is that it shouldn’t affect your ability to charge your phone.
iStock
As long as you’ve packed your standard charger, you can simply plug the lead into the USB port on the back of your hotel TV.
TO ROCK A LOOK, ALWAYS ROLL
“To maximise luggage space and minimise creases, always roll your clothes when packing,” says Sloan Sheridan-Williams, spokesperson for accommodation portal booking.com.
Not only will your first-night wardrobe be ready to wear, but this technique also provides useful safe havens for delicate items like electric toothbrushes, razors and chargers.For make packing a breeze, check out these 5 suitcase packing hacks!
CAP YOUR SHOES
Whether your shoes are dirty when you’re packing them - or they get muddy during your trip - that's an easy way to prevent them from marking the clean clothes they’re now bag sharing with, according to Sansom.Simply grab a cheap shower cap to place them in during transit, and prevent any dirt from getting on your clothing.Packing a small tumble dryer sheet for a fresh smell in your luggage is always a good idea too.
DON’T PAY TWICE FOR CAR INSURANCE
“Once you’ve decided on the right car hire deal, only buy the basic package,” says Thompson. “Sometimes daily insurance can cost many times what it’s actually worth, as car hire firms make their profits by selling add-ons, which can be absurdly expensive. Instead, arrange your own cover beforehand - or get a general travel insurance package which covers car hire too.”
BOOK EARLY
As well as saving money, booking a trip well in advance also has big psychological benefits. A Dutch study in the journal Applied Research in Quality of Life (which sounds like a must-read title to us), found that holidaymakers are happiest not when they’re on holiday, not when they get back, but when they’re looking forward to it. By booking early, you maximise that excitement and anticipation - even if your productivity checks out early because you’re Googling pictures of your destination at the office.
TAP INTO FREE WIFI
As you’re walking around, plenty of places will have free Wi-Fi, but they’ll probably be password protected - and they won't give out that password if you aren't making a purchase. “Sidestep that problem by checking FourSquare, where previous visitors will often post passwords,” says Sansom.
Certainly beats paying the equivalent of another air-fare in roaming data costs.
COMBAT JET LAG BEFORE IT EVEN HAPPENS
"It might sound obvious, but leaving home well-rested will minimise any subsequent jet lag," says Sheridan-Williams. “Ensure you have a relaxing 48 hours before your departure, and pre-prepare a chilled playlist to help you zone out in-flight.”
SLEEP OFF YOUR JET LAG
To further minimise holidaying like a zombie, the Sleep Foundation recommends choosing a flight that gets you to your destination in the early evening, and staying awake until around 10pm local time.
Set your watch to your new time zone as soon as you board the place and, unfortunately, you’re going to need to avoid caffeine and alcohol in the three to four hours before you go to bed.
PRE-MAP YOUR DESTINATION
"Download the area you're travelling to on Google Maps before you leave home," urges Thompson. “The GPS in your phone will work without using mobile data, and with a downloaded map you'll always be able to navigate your way around an unfamiliar area.”
ALWAYS MARK YOUR CHECKED LUGGAGE AS FRAGILE
“[Marking your luggage "fragile"] is a great way to ensure that your baggage is handled correctly,” says Thompson.
iStock
“Your luggage will be kept at the top of the pile because of this, which will make it one of the first bags to be released too.”
BUILD YOUR HEAT TOLERANCE
If you live in a moderate climate and holiday in the tropics, the danger is that you spend your entire vacation in the shade because you can’t stop sweating in the sun. Fortunately, multiple studies have shown that you can increase your heat tolerance simply by exposing yourself to it in the days before.
iStock
Hit the sauna or sign up for a hot yoga class and your body won’t get a heat shock when you leave the arrivals lounge.
STAY HYDRATED WITHOUT LEAKING MONEY
Plane filtration systems might ensure a clean environment for passengers - but they also ensure parched throats, dizzy heads and a higher risk of jetlag. Luckily there’s an easy fix: “Invest in a reusable water bottle that looks great and does good,” says Thompson.
“Just take one to the airport empty and fill it up once you’re past security. Something like BRITA’s fill&go Active bottle is ideal: it even improves the quality and taste of tap water.”
STAY AWAY FROM THAT PESKY COLD
Flying can dry out the membranes in our nose - which, when moist, help keep germs moving to flush them out of our system. This can be easily solved with a saline spray you can find in most drugstores - as well as making sure you stay hydrated. Even getting in some of the steam by having a good whiff of your pre-flight coffee is worth a try.
NEVER ORDER THE TAP WATER ON A PLANE HOME
iStock
Speaking of hygiene, there’s a damn fine excuse for having a beer instead of water on a plane.A study by the Wall Street Journal tested tap water on 14 international and domestic flights. They found everything from salmonella to tiny insect eggs. Likewise, don’t ask for ice if you’re flying from a country with a suspect water supply. The trays will have been filled there, not at home.Editor note:We hope these tips will help you with your next vacation destination. For great ideas on places to go check out this site: CULA Travel - Travel with Taste!
We are here for you and will guarantee to meet or beat prices you find on-line! Bon Voyage!
Holland America Line is already heavily featuring its new partnership with “America’s Test Kitchen” aboard its ships and the fleet is set to bring more culinary talent to 2018. A trio of special themed sailings will feature cooking shows and interactive workshops, as well as the opportunity to meet cast members from the television show.
Meet-and-greets will occur at a book signing and reception, while additional events will include a question-and-answer session, presentation on recipe development and kitchen knowledge trivia.
The first theme cruise is scheduled for May 6, 2018, aboard Westerdam’s seven-day Alaska Inside Passage itinerary. Showcased on that departure will be Jack Bishop and Bryan Roof. Bishop is the CEO of “America’s Test Kitchen” as well as tasting lab expert and cookbook author. Roof is the executive food editor for “Cook’s Country” magazine and a televised test cook.
The second sailing will depart on July 7, 2018, aboard Zuiderdam’s 14-day Northern Isles circuit. Showcased on the ship will be Bridget Lancaster and Lisa McManus. Lancaster is the executive editor for new media, television, and radio at “America’s Test Kitchen” as well as the television host. McManus is an equipment-testing and ingredient-tasting executive editor at “Cook’s Illustrated” and “Cook’s Country” magazines as well as on-screen gadget expert.
The third voyage will leave on September 22, 2018, aboard Veendam’s seven-day Canada & New England Discovery route. Julia Collin Davison and Rebecca (Becky) Hays will be highlighted. Davison is executive editor for the book division of “America’s Test Kitchen” and television host. Hays is the deputy editor of “Cook’s Illustrated” and “Cook’s Country” magazines plus televised test cook.
Benovia Winery on AmaWaterways
Wine connoisseurs will want to take note that Benovia Winery Proprietors Joe Anderson and Mary Dewane and Wine Educator Peg Melnik will be hosting an AmaWaterways river cruise. From June 29 to July 6, 2018, AmaViola’s seven-night Melodies of the Danube Wine Cruise will set sail from Budapest, Hungary to Vilshofen, Germany.
The 84-stateroom vessel will float down the Danube while guests enjoy Wachau Valley wines as well as Benovia tastings onboard. Other wine experiences will include a "Welcome Aboard" reception, three seminars, social tasting on the Sun Deck and a Wine Dinner hosted by Joe Anderson and Mary Dewane.
On March 17, 2018, MSC Cruises will host the Dolphins Fan Cruise aboard its brand new MSC Seaside. Both Miami Dolphins players and cheerleaders will be on the ship for guests to interact with as part of the three-year partnership between the cruise line and NFL football team.
Onboard for autographs will be Kim Bokamper, Terry Kirby, Sam Madison, Nat Moore, Joe Rose and Patrick Surtain. Guests can pose and cheer with cheerleaders for photo-ops, while former players will be on hand for Q&A sessions. Cheer squad and mascot T.D. will also present special performances.
The themed fan cruise will be available annually over the three-year span of the collaboration. Also, on April 28, 2018, the Miami Dolphins Cheerleaders will have their annual calendar shoot on the MSC Seaside at its port for guests to get a behind-the-scenes glimpse at the process and enjoy other hosted programming.
Starting in May 2019, Ponant will offer its Quintessential Collection of themed cruises. “Designed to inspire travelers in destinations,” sailings will showcase onboard speakers and performances as well as shore excursions focused on regional cultures and themes.
—Green and Gentle Lands: Exploring Gardens and Historic Sites, May 14-22, 2019: Retired Executive Director of the United States Botanic Garden and internationally recognized horticulturist, Holly Shimizu, will host conversations on the ship. Guests will explore Kew Gardens, Chelsea Physic Garden, and the Royal Botanic Garden in Edinburgh for a lunch.
—Sicilian Food and Wine Experience, June 28-July 6, 2019: Travel and food writer for The New York Times and the Financial Times, Mary Taylor Simeti, will lecture onboard. Passengers will discover Palmero and Greek temples, as well as enjoy Wine Spectator-selected wines and pairings with help from regional wine ambassador and educator, Marco Scapagnini.
—Treasures of the Mediterranean World: A Family Learning Adventure, July 15-22, 2019: Professor of Classics at the University of Cincinnati and Greek archaeology/mythology expert, Kathleen M. Lynch, and host of “Myths & Legends” podcast, Jason Weiser, will chat about local history, literature and culture. The Young Explorers children’s program will encompass photo workshops and a mock Olympics competition.
—History, Art, and Architecture along the North Sea, August 23-September 1, 2019: General Director of the Municipal Museum of Bruges, Till-Holger Borchert, will accompany the trip as guests check out the likes of the Louisiana Museum and Groninger Museum.
—A Musical Odyssey in the Mediterranean, September 18-27, 2019: Former principal flutist of the Metropolitan Opera Orchestra, Michael Parloff, will lead several private recitals featuring flutist Jasmine Choi, cellist Nicholas Canellakis, and pianist and composer, Michael Brown. Guests will also see Delphi and the Ancient Theater in Taormina.
— World War II History – From Hong Kong to Japan’s Inland Sea, September 27-October 10, 2019: Expert World War II historian and son of John Bradley—who hoisted the flag on Iwo Jima—James Bradley, will be onboard. Travelers will follow the path of American General Douglas MacArthur and visit Okinawa’s beaches, Mount Fuji and the Itsukushima Shrine in Hiroshima.
—World Affairs Cruise – Origins of Greek Civilizations, October 9-18. 2019: CNN host and “Washington Post” columnist, Fareed Zakaria, retired US Air Force general and former Director of the CIA, Michael V. Hayden, and internationally best-selling author and columnist for “Harper’s,” Daniel Mendelsohn, will be on hand while guests traverse Athens and Crete.
Luxury line Seabourn is preparing a series of fresh Seabourn Conversations to host on its upcoming new Seabourn Ovation beginning in May 2018. Included among the special speakers and departures are the following highlights:
—Sir Tim Rice, May 5 - 16: The English author and lyricist has won three each of the Oscars, Golden Globes and Tonys in addition to multiple Grammys. Following his collaborations with Andrew Lloyd Webber, he has brought his talents to Seabourn with the wonderful fleet-wide production show, “An Evening with Tim Rice.”
—Dr. Andrew Weil, May 5 - 16: Another contributor to Seabourn’s software is the world-renowned leader and pioneering doctor in the field of integrative medicine who established his "Spa & Wellness with Dr. Andrew Weil" program onboard all the line’s ships. His holistic treatments can be found at The Onboard Spa by Steiner.
—Michael Teitelbaum, May 26 - June 9; November 14 - December 4: The demographer and historian at Harvard Law School has written more than 10 books as well as pieces for “Foreign Affairs,” “Science,” “The New York Times” and “The Atlantic.”
—Armando Manni, August 4 - 18: The "M" in K+M Extravirgin Chocolate who partnered with Seabourn-favorite Thomas Keller as the “K.” The gourmet and entrepreneur is known for MANNI Oil.
—Grant Harrold October 1-13: Harrold is a broadcaster, commentator, public speaker and butler trainer recognized as "The Royal Butler.”
—Warren Fahey, November 14 - December 4: Fahey is a cultural historian plus author, broadcaster and performer focused on "curious" folklore.
—Dean McFlicker December 4 - 22: McFlicker is an award-winning producer and director having worked on campaigns for “The Voice,” “This Is Us,” “Law and Order,” “America's Got Talent” and mor
This great article in a recent Travel Agent Center will prepare you for the perfect wedding, honeymoon, or even proposal. See what is hot right now and don't forget to jot down this number. Rhonda, Culinary Latitudes Travel, will provide you with a quick estimate on your romantic get-away! +1 (772) 888-1563Article by: Travel Agent Center; Joe Pike, David Moseder, Matt Turner, Adam Leposa |
Various reports put the revenue generated by the wedding industry as high as $76 billion annually, with average wedding costs reaching new highs year after year (more than $35,000, excluding honeymoon, according to The Knot’s most recent Real Weddings Study). To help you get your slice of the cake, Travel Agent spoke to a number of top experts in the destination weddings and honeymoons market and uncovered several trends and tips on everything from the proposal, places and products to the pitfalls of planning. Here’s what we learned:
Destination Proposals
The practice of traveling to a beautiful location to pop the question began to catch on a few years ago, mostly among Millennials looking for a cool, splashy way to promote their engagement on social media. And now, Carolee Higashino, president and founder of White Orchid Wedding (WOW) in Hawaii, says the niche is all the rage these days, from simple proposals to elaborate ones on the beach.
“Many couples are booking our services to arrange for their secret surprise by hiring a paparazzi photography session complete with a ceremony site, flowers, champagne and an intimate dinner for two,” says Higashino. “Often family and friends are invited as well and appear once the willing participant says yes.”
“Resort staff have always been more than willing to lend an assist in this area — and now hotels are beginning to capitalize with special add-on packages,” says Scott Wiseman, president of Travel Impressions. “One of our popular packages is the Secrets Resorts ‘Pop The Question’ package, which features a photo shoot, bouquet of roses, sparkling wine and additional special touches [ranging] from a romantic rose petal- and candle-lined path to the words ‘Will you marry me?’ written on the sand.”
Wiseman also recommends The Ritz-Carlton, Laguna Niguel in California, which offers two proposal packages that have all the trimmings, including a kneeling cushion.
“If you’re aware that a proposal is in the works and are not recommending one of these commissionable packages, you’re leaving money on the table,” says Wiseman. “Beyond financial motivations, helping to make your clients’ special day even more memorable is a great way to cement loyalty.”
Couples looking for an out-of-the-box idea to celebrate their big day can opt for an underwater wedding offered by Buddy Dive Resort in Bonaire.
Unusual Weddings / Venues
Perhaps the biggest trend in selecting a wedding type or venue is quite simply avoiding a boring, traditional, ballroom wedding and instead opting for a once-in-a-lifetime ceremony.
“No one is getting married in a box anymore,” says Jenna Mahoney, travel editor with Bridal Guide Magazine. “The days of getting married in a basic ballroom are over because people realize you can be anywhere when you are in a ballroom. People now want a sense of place and a sense of experience.”
To avoid a dull celebration, here are a few popular, out-of-the-box types and venues that will wow every guest invited.
Naked Weddings / Vow Renewals: Jamaica’s famous all-inclusive, adults-only, clothing-optional resort, Hedonism II, is not your average getaway and thus doesn’t tote just your basic offerings. Weddings and vow-renewal ceremonies are always complimentary here and the tux and traditional white gown are definitely optional. Wedding packages include a personal wedding planner, a choice of location — whether it be white-sand beaches, lush tropical gardens or waterfall lagoons — a minister, marriage license, champagne, a wedding cake, flowers and music.
Underwater Weddings: Buddy Dive Resort on the Caribbean island of Bonaire specializes in offering underwater weddings. Their underwater wedding package starts at $450 per couple and includes dive equipment for bride and groom, an underwater video with editing and music included; and a wedding ceremony at Buddy’s Reef. Witnesses, champagne and additional services such as photographer, hairdresser and make-up, bridal bouquet, wedding dinner, party with live music are available upon request.
Weddings at a Volcano: Lena Brown of Largay Travel recommends clients get married in the Napali coast of Hawaii and take a Zodiac to a beach that has a stone-hole arch where the 1976 “King Kong” movie was filmed on Kauai. There is a cabin in the Hawaii Volcanoes National Park that you can rent and you have to hike down to it, says Brown.
Higashino tells us that White Orchid Wedding has also organized incredible experiences atop Maui’s volcano Haleakala at sunrise and even performed ceremonies on the Big Island near an active lava flow.
“We love utilizing historic and / or culturally significant spots as well as places that have the true essence of Hawaii,” she notes.
Get Married in the African Bush: Marsha Carroll of Travel Beyond points to Africa as a trendy spot for fresh wedding idea, specifically a simple ceremony in the African bush.
“All the planning will be arranged by the safari camp, and the intimate experience offers an unforgettable ceremony,” she says. “If you prefer something more traditional with ethnic clothing, a Masai blessing can be arranged.”
Not-So-Ordinary Domestic Weddings
Travel Agent also rounded up a few destinations in the U.S. for the most Instagram-worthy weddings.
In Palm Springs, CA, plan a wedding at The Merv Griffin Estate, the former home of the late singer and television host. Available on the 39-acre property are an infinity-edge pool, a two-plus-acre pond and equestrian racetrack — all of which are perfectly suitable settings for a wedding. Book the couple and their guests on-property.
The estate has two guestrooms in the main house, four guest cabanas to the east and an 1,800-square-foot guesthouse to the north. Nearby, the couple and their guests can explore the Mount San Jacinto State Park or Lake Cahuilla, or they can tee off in Hideaway or Madison Golf Club.
Chateau Cocomar is a castle-looking estate in Austin, TX with opulent chandeliers, elegant gardens and French-style ballrooms. It’s a wedding-focused venue, so it offers a Bridal Dressing Suite, Groom’s Dressing Suite and Family Dressing Suite. There are also seven additional Deluxe Overnight Suites.
For a totally far-out idea, suggest to your clients The Old Dairy, located in Bath County, VA. Surrounded by the Allegheny Mountains, this venue was previously a fully functional dairy that operated until the second half of the 20th century. Currently, it’s a popular wedding venue with two silos providing the backdrop. Don’t worry: The property is fully restored and includes a dance hall. Tip: Make time to enjoy the natural hot springs. The property also has luxurious interiors, master bedroom suites, soaking tubs, heated floors, large decks and outdoor fire pits. The wedding party will also have access to the exclusive Warm Springs Dairy Community Center, so they can choose to cool off in the outdoor pool, or visit the fitness center, whirlpool and sauna.
Just to the southwest, in Tennessee’s Great Smoky Mountains, is The Lodge at Brother’s Cove. This is a great venue for couples who enjoy adventure and fresh mountain air. The Lodge at Brother’s Cove is located on 450 acres; guests can get married outside or indoors under iron chandeliers in front of floor-to-ceiling windows.
Guests can be booked at the main lodge or at any of the other 50 cabins located on the property, sleeping anywhere from two guests to 24. We recommend the Fireflies in the Night property, whose three stories can accommodate 20. Each of the seven rooms has its own flat-screen TV, private en suite baths, a full kitchen, two dining tables, a fireplace, game room, multiple decks, hammocks and picnic tables.
Honeymoon Destinations / Hotels
The St. Regis Princeville Resort on Kauai is seen as one of the hottest properties to honeymoon at in Hawaii.
When it comes to the two biggest trends in honeymoon planning, several advisors we spoke to point to a client’s desire to get married in an exotic location and also their willingness to wait for peak season for the best experience.
Daniela Harrison of Avenues of the World Travel tells Travel Agent that her honeymoon-bound clients are choosing bucket list-type destinations like Sri Lanka, Africa, Maldives, Thailand and the Cook Islands, while traditional favorites like Mexico, Caribbean and Europe will always be popular.
“Africa is certainly one of the most romantic destinations for a wedding, honeymoon or anniversary,” says Marsha Carroll of Travel Beyond. “Africa has an allure that’s captivated the imagination of romantics at heart, boasting wide open spaces, breathtaking sunsets, stunning landscapes and the thrill of wildlife encounters.”
In Mexico, Pamela Walker of Escapes.ca says, she recently received “rave reviews” from a couple she booked at the Rosas & Xocolate Boutique Hotel + Spa in Merida, while Sayulita is a great destination for a more chill honeymoon just north of Puerto Vallarta.
And as far as properties go, over-the-water bungalows are dominating honeymoon bookings in both the Caribbean and Mexico.
“Honeymooners have alternate options open to them with opulent overwater bungalows, suites and villas now available in Mexico and the Caribbean, including El Dorado Maroma, a Gourmet Inclusive Resort, by Karisma in Riviera Maya; Sandals Royal Caribbean Resort & Private Island; Sandals South Coast in Jamaica and Sandals Grande St. Lucian Spa & Beach Resort in Saint Lucia,” says Jack E. Richards, president and CEO of Pleasant Holidays.
Pamela Walker of Escapes.ca says she recently received “rave reviews from a couple she booked at the Rosas & Xocolate Boutique Hotel + Spa in Merida, Mexico.
The new over-the-water bungalows are so popular, says Anna Swenson of Journeys Inc., that travelers will even opt for a shorter trip — three nights instead of a week — to have a chance to stay there. Another option is to split a shorter stay in a bungalow with a stay in a lower-priced suite.
“They can get the amazing experience, if for a short time, and as a bonus, get those ‘Instagrammable’ pictures to show their friends and family back home,” says Swenson.
But although the Caribbean and Mexico may be the latest destinations to get into the over-the-water bungalows market, Richards says the South Pacific still remains the most desired location for this room category for clients looking to go “dream big” or go home.
“An iconic overwater bungalow perched above the translucent waters of a South Pacific lagoon in Bora Bora, Moorea or Tahiti is still the ultimate in ‘dream big’ honeymoons,” he tells Travel Agent.
Meanwhile, Walker says, “I love Playa Resorts’ Sanctuary Cap Cana in Punta Cana. It’s a beautiful, adults-only resort with a spa-like feel. There are gorgeous oceanfront luxury villas and private island suites. There are many unique features such as the Blue Marlin Restaurant on stilts over the water, and the incredible castle surrounded by a moat.”
Other unique and faraway destinations that are trending are Morocco, Bali and Thailand, notes Walker. Selena Bohinski of First Class Travel also points to Thailand as a hot honeymoon destination, while Singapore and the Maldives are also popular.
For domestic honeymoons, Hawaii is still king. Higashino says the hottest properties to honeymoon at in the Aloha State include Four Seasons Resort Maui; Andaz Maui at Wailea Resort; Fairmont Kea Lani, Maui; The St. Regis Princeville Resort on Kauai; Four Seasons Resort Oahu at Ko Olina; The Laylow, Autograph Collection on Oahu and Four Seasons Resort Lanai.
And regardless of where they choose to celebrate their honeymoon, Hannah Schremp of Frosch Travel says many of her clients are willing to postpone their honeymoon in order to travel during the peak season of their desired destination.
The Over-the-Water Bungalows at Sandals South Coast in Jamaica are an enticing option for honeymooners.
“So, if their wedding date doesn’t coincide with ideal weather where they would like to travel to, they are happy to wait,” Schremp tells us. “They’ll do a stay-cation or a quick weekend getaway directly after the wedding and then wait six months to go on their dream honeymoon.”
Mahoney of Bridal Guide Magazine says “buddymoons,” in which the recently married couple invites friends to join them on their honeymoon, is continuing to grow in popularity.
She notes that the trend was born when former “Friends” TV star Jennifer Aniston got married in 2015 and had a honeymoon that included all of her friends.
“Last year was really the first year we heard about it,” says Mahoney, “but this year, we are starting to see properties getting in on it, like the Four Seasons Bora Bora.”
Trendy Wedding Locales
The Caribbean remains a popular destination for weddings and honeymoons, according to several travel agents that we spoke with. The reasons being that it’s a quick flight and the atmosphere of the Caribbean and the people “seem to say, ‘Let’s party!’,” according to Julia Shore from Reid Travel. However, she tells us that she’s taken a special interest in Morocco lately.
“I love it so much that I have visited twice in the last four months, and can’t wait to return in March,” Shore says.
A few key points that make Morocco a great destination are that it’s easily accessible from the U.S. (especially the East Coast) and that it’s also an exotic and romantic destination. Shore tells us that there are plenty of “spectacular venues,” and that includes Moroccan palaces and hidden riads, as well as desert oases and beaches.
Palaces, hidden riads, as well as desert oases and beaches make Morocco a trendy destination for weddings and honeymoons. Seen here is the Royal Suite at Ansanga Riads Collection in Marrakesh.
For instance, couples can opt for a sophisticated garden wedding in Palmeraie (a palm oasis of several hundred thousand trees outside of Marrakesh), an Atlas Mountain where couples and their guests can enjoy the “star-laden Moroccan skies,” or in the Sahara, which can be followed by sleeping in tents or a private estate. This follows the trend that couples are looking to tie the knot in unique locations, but these also tend to be more intimate, as further destinations can be prohibitive to some guests.
Mexico is Pleasant Holidays’ number-one choice for international destination weddings, with Riviera Maya, Cancun and Los Cabos being the top picks, says Richards.
“Mexico resorts also make the planning process easy and seamless, with onsite wedding coordinators and directors of romance, free ceremonies, special promotions and more,” Richards adds.
Mexico and the Dominican Republic are also Travel Impressions’ biggest sellers for destination weddings.
“Resort brands such as Breathless, Dreams, Hard Rock, Karisma, Palace, Palladium and Secrets have become pros when it comes to executing picture-perfect nuptial ceremonies tailored to the dreams and aspirations of each couple,” says Wiseman.
“We went to the Breathless Punta Cana Resort & Spa for our honeymoon,” Shayna Pierce of Academy Travel, A Frosch Company, tells us. “What I recommend about that destination is that there are so many activities to do while you are there.” And while Breathless may give the impression of nonstop party, Pierce says, “It really is not. There are a number of opportunities to get away from the party scene, including the quiet pool.”
Hawaii is Pleasant Holidays’ top choice for domestic destination weddings, with Oahu and Maui being the top picks.
“While oceanfront sunset weddings are predominantly the most preferred option, guests are opting for the islands of Maui, Kauai and the Big Island for the most intimate offerings from these beach / oceanfront wedding venues,” says Higashino. “While many love the hustle and bustle of Waikiki, it can be a challenge to find a sunset spot without being inundated with people.”
Disney’s fairy-tale weddings are said to be a hit among second-timers, who have children from prior marriages. Seen here is the Walt Disney World Orlando.
Wiseman also points to Hawaii, as well as Las Vegas and California, as the most popular for destination weddings, although he noted that Travel Impressions is seeing some “renewed interest in Florida, spurred by Disney’s fairy tale weddings, which are a big hit with second-timers when children from prior marriages are in the picture.”
Products and Assistance
Agents are not wedding planners, so it is important for an advisor to seek the proper assistance from someone, either onsite or elsewhere.
“Clients need both of our skill sets and expertise; they want someone to scout venue with them in a destination, design all the elements and also handle their travel logistics,” says Heather Christopher, owner of Heather Christopher Travel Consulting. “Most wedding planners already have their plates full and are not well equipped to handle travel and hotel contracts on top of their regular duties. The partnership between the two can be as simple as handling hotel blocks for local weddings and building from there.”
Bohinski recommends joining The Knot or WeddingWire so couples can find you easily during their wedding planning process and to attend local bridal shows that fit your market and clientele.
“One thing that has helped our agency so much in booking destination weddings is attending wedding FAM trips and seeing the ceremony and reception set-ups in person and learning firsthand what is included at each resort,” says Bohinski. “Every resort is so different in its own way and being able to experience the resort and meeting with the resort staff and wedding staff is so important.”
Michelle Carbone tells us that seeing the resorts in person has helped set her agency, Michelle’s Destinations Unlimited, apart from the competition. “And you know people onsite usually can get to know your local rep or BDM in the process,” she says. “It’s important to ask lots of questions to properly qualify your clients and make sure they end up in the right resort.”
For further assistance, Higashino says White Orchid Wedding uses all the latest in event-planning apps and especially social media avenues such as Pinterest, Instagram, Facebook, Social Tables and Hootsuite. She also says many event planners find Aisle Planner useful.
“I have been planning weddings and events for over 25 years and the best advice I can give is to be patient and listen to your customers’ needs and desires,” she tells Travel Agent. “Create their celebration to always exceed their expectations and take pride in your work. You must stay savvy with current trends and utilize the latest tools available in the trade. Stay personal with clientele, nothing worse than automated messages. Answer your phone and be professional at all times. Be sure you are a fit with your client as you often will be working side by side for quite some time throughout the planning process”
As far as new products go, Mahoney tells us the traditional photography packages offered at hotels are beginning to evolve with drone rentals set to be all the rage this year and beyond. Mahoney says more and more hotels are beginning to offer drone packages for couples looking for some spectacular aerial shots of their ceremony.
A Pair of Proposal Packages
Get Engaged Like a Royal: Meghan Markle isn’t the only American who can have a royal engagement. Now, The Milestone Hotel, London’s boutique five-star hotel overlooking Kensington Palace, is offering a special “Royal Engagement Package” to celebrate the upcoming nuptials between Prince Harry and American actress Markle.
The two-night package includes Royal Afternoon Tea for two; a romantic turndown with pink Champagne on one night; a chauffeured Bentley to a Hatton Garden jewelry store; a horse-drawn carriage around London to celebrate the new engagement; a private tour of Kensington Palace and a photo session with a hotel photographer in front of Kensington Palace.
Il Salviatino in Italy is offering the “Perfect Proposal” package. Seen here is one of the GreenHouse Suites, which have glass-encased living spaces.
A “Perfect Proposal” in Tuscany: Il Salviatino, a restored 15th-century villa located in the Tuscan hills of Italy, is offering the “Perfect Proposal” package, which includes accommodations for two nights in the room of the couple’s choice; a daily breakfast buffet; a one-hour couples massage at LA SPA; a romantic, candlelit, three-course dinner; and a three-hour tour with a personal shopper who will escort clients to the best jewelers on the Ponte Vecchio and Via Tornabuoni for the best fashion findings.
Avoid These Wedding Planning Pitfalls
Understand the Needs of Bride vs. Groom: Just because two people are destined to be with each other doesn’t mean they necessarily have the same tastes and interests, says Travel Impressions’ Scott Wiseman.
“Clients often come into an agency with two different ideas of what their dream wedding should be — and then you have outside influences such as the sister who appoints herself wedding planner,” he says. “As a travel agent, your job is to take all of that feedback and distill it into the perfect experience, which is no easy task.”
Do Not Avoid Using a Planner: While White Orchid Wedding’s Carolee Higashino recommends using a wedding planner, she also urges agents to reconsider hiring a planner the day of the actual wedding.
“Use a planner. Always. You may think you are capable and you may very well be, but, why? It is a huge burden of stress on the very day you hope to enjoy and cherish for the rest of your life,” she says. “Reconsider hiring a ‘day of’ planner as this often is not actually cost effective and you will feel quite stressed once again when passing over all of your details to someone at the final hour. As many couples are not experts in event planning, often something goes amiss and can become an issue in this scenario. Be sure to cover outdoor events as tropical weather can be unpredictable.”
Don’t Skimp on Memories: Higashino also urges advisors to invest in a great photographer and cinematographer to tell your story for years to come.
“Hire professional transportation for your events especially if your guests plan on imbibing,” she says. “Do not count on taxis and Uber, as they can be unpredictable and not available in certain parts of the islands. Do not try and be a travel agent for your guests, they are capable of managing this themselves. Align yourself perhaps with a travel agent partner to help your guests with these needs.”
White Orchid Wedding’s Carolee Higashino urges advisors to invest in a great photographer and cinematographer.
Don’t Overwhelm Yourself: Avenues of the World Travel’s Daniela Harrison tells us the best wedding specialists are the ones who give proper attention to every detail of the wedding, which is why she tries to limit herself to handling about one or two weddings per year. “They are so time intensive and take so much patience and hand-holding,” she tells us.
#GetSocial: In addition to creating a clever wedding hashtag for guests to include in their social posts, many couples are opting for a personalized Snapchat filter — essentially replacing the otherwise popular photo booth. This is according to findings of wedding trends gleaned by Destination Hotels. The team at San Diego’s Paradise Point Resort & Spa, for example, reports seeing more wedding attendees use live video capabilities on Facebook and Instagram to commemorate the special day. With today’s technology, friends and family who aren’t able to make it to the wedding don’t have to miss out on all the fun when they are able to tune into the action in real-time through social media.
Stir ingredients over ice (or combine with crushed ice in a blender) and pour into a cocktail glass. Garnish with a pineapple wedge, maraschino cherry, and an orchid.
From the Fairmont Orchid on Hawaii’s Kohala Coast
The Spirits
Bols Blue Curaçao ($12)
It’s the original blue curaçao, flavored with an intense variety of bitter orange grown on its namesake Dutch Caribbean island.
Selvarey Rum ($25)
An impressive new brand from Panama with a suave vanilla nose and layered, not overly sweet flavors, sure to kick any rum cocktail up a few notches. Also try the cacao-flavored version.
Sammy’s Beach Bar Rum ($23)
A minerally, fruit-packed entry from rocker (and part-time Aloha State resident) Sammy Hagar, distilled from the first pressing of virgin Maui Gold sugarcane.
Tanduay Silver Asian Rum ($20)
A connoisseurs’ rum that works on its own or in cocktails. Availability is limited, but this Philippines-crafted stunner is pure and focused from start to finish, a worthy addition to a serious bar.
Caliche Puerto Rican Rum ($25)
Created by nightlife impresario Rande Gerber with Puerto Rico’s Serrallés distilling family, lively Caliche is bright with complex flavors, charming rustic notes, and scuba-worthy depth.
Originally appeared in Virtuoso Life magazine, July 2014.
PHOTO: Man and woman seated. (photo via Pixabay/5688709)
If you’ve never been to a travel agent, you should know that it’s similar to meeting anyone for the first time. You need to get to know each other and see if there’s a connection.
Did you like your doctor when you first met? If you didn’t, did you find another one? Or how about your teachers? A new boss?
Having a travel agent assist you with your trip can be tremendously helpful, but you need to learn about each other and make sure you like that person. Often, you’re spending a great deal of money on a vacation so you want a trusting relationship with the agent who is handling your trip.
Here are just a few things you can expect:
A Long Talk
“When visiting a travel agent for the first time, you should expect a warm greeting followed by a conversation about your past travel experiences, your likes and dislikes as it relates to travel, and your vision for your upcoming trip,” said Peggy Rosenthal, Dream Vacations Franchise Owner and Vacation Specialist in Bella Vista, Arkansas.
“By investing a little bit of time up front, you can help your agent understand your needs and she will be much better prepared to deliver your dream vacation.”
A Connection
“It should be considered a first-date of sorts,” said Corey S. Determan, Good Travels Advisor & Certified Cruise Counsellor in Jacksonville, Florida.
“Just like any other agent—insurance, real estate, financial planner, etc.—your relationship with this person will (hopefully) be long-term. It will grow as you develop and tastes change—from independent adventure travel to romantic getaways to a destination wedding or honeymoon and eventually to multi-generational family vacations. It's important your agent understands your travel style and your preferences.”
Determan said that if there’s no spark, however, make a clean break.
“Don't ask for a quote if you have no intention of using that agent,” he said. “No one likes to be led on, and the agent will ultimately lose money doing work for you that she will not get paid for if you don't actually purchase.”
A Level of Comfort
“There’s no reason to feel silly or embarrassed if you’re not familiar with the way travel agencies work or what the benefits of working together are,” said Rafa Mayer, Founder and CEO of Say Hueque, a travel agency in South America.
“Trust us, whatever question you have in mind, chances are we’ve heard it before.”
A Helping Hand with Research:
“I'm finding that the older clients aren't wanting to do any research on computers,” said Penny Gellatly, owner and travel consultant at Escape by Travel in Cloquet, Minnesota. “However, they want to be educated on the different destinations and which destination is for them.
Gellatly had one couple that wanted to cruise with their family.
“The kids wanted an all-inclusive as their friends tell them all the time how simple life can be at the all-inclusive. I asked for us to get together in my office. I had asked them to talk to their kids to see what they wanted to do, where did they want to go, and what was important to them while on vacation. Then bring me that list from their kids and go over all in detail.”
After finding out that Jamaica was the agreed-upon destination, they talked about resort options and what they had to offer them all. (Editor note: Jamaica is the wedding destination of 2018!)
“They wanted golfing, shopping, a beach they could swim in and relaxing at a family-friendly smaller resort,” she said. “I love meeting with clients. It gives me the opportunity to show them my experience and knowledge that I can share with them. I know Mr. Internet isn't going to give that info.”
FEATURES & ADVICELISA IANNUCCI DECEMBER 25, 2017PHOTO: Travel agents take care of the granular details so you can relax and enjoy your vacation. (photo via Flickr/James Wheeler)
When it comes to using a travel agent, you might not realize what benefits they bring to the table. After all, it seems that so many travelers are doing their own bookings using online travel sites, so shouldn't you?
Not really. There are multiple ways that travel agents can help you to save.
More people are finding the benefits of using a travel agent. According to reports, in spring 2017, the number of people who lived in a household that used a travel agent service within the last 12 months amounted to 14.48 million. While it’s a reduction from spring 2008 (when the number was 18.4 people), it still goes to show that the travel agency industry is alive and well.
If you still don’t know the benefits of using a travel agent, here are five just to start:
Saves You Stress
“Vacation planning should be fun,” said Emily Steinkamp, travel agent with MickeyTravels, LLC.
“Leave the logistics to your travel agent. You select your experiences and resort amenities, etc., and allow your agent to be on hold with the resort or work through transportation details. Logistics can be the non-glamorous part of a vacation, where it’s time taken from your day to complete the task or to learn what is involved in planning your trip.”
Saves You Money
You know that phrase “time is money?” asks Maureen McKamey, an agent at Edina, Minnesota-based A1 Travel, a Travel Leaders Network affiliate. “It’s true when it comes to planning a vacation. Instead of sifting through thousands of resort and flight options online, let your travel agent do it for you. We can, more efficiently, present you with a curated selection of options to choose from and save you the headache of having to do all the planning yourself.”
In many cases, McKamey said that travel agents offer a deposit option to help those who can’t pay all at once:
“That means you can book your trip by putting down a small portion of the balance and pay the rest as you go before a final payment date. It allows you to lock in those early booking discounts since you won’t have to worry about paying the whole balance up front.”
Saves You Research
“Travel agents have knowledge about the destinations they book for their clients, so they are able to provide them with information and insight to help them decide what they are truly looking for in a vacation,” said Finkelstein, Travel Agent with MickeyTravels, LLC.
“In addition, we continually monitor our clients’ packages for promotions and discounts. We want to be able to apply the best available deals for our clients and save them money.”
Saves You Time
“Whether you are juggling a family and/or a career, using a travel agent saves you time,” said Steinkamp. “Your agent can make calls to your destination, look up dining options and make trip payments. The offerings your agent can provide are numerous.”
Travel agents have access to tools, deals and promotions that the general public doesn’t.
“When we book your trip, we’re not logging on to the same websites you are,” added McKamey. “We have our own set of vendors and booking tools at our disposal, and that means that, oftentimes, we’ll find you a better deal than what you’d find on your own.”
Saves You Peace of Mind
“We plan for the unexpected,” said McKamey. “Travel agents encourage our clients to buy travel insurance because travel really is unpredictable. We can set you up with a policy that covers those unpleasant (and expensive) surprises, like flight cancellations, or getting sick or injured while you’re on your trip.”
If you want to use a travel agent, ask friends and family for recommendations. Culinary Latitudes is currently promoting a trip of a lifetime to beautiful Tuscany and Florence next April!
Article: James Beard Foundation editors; December 11, 2017
No chestnuts roasting on an open fire? No Jack Frost nipping at your nose? No worries. Just mix up a pitcher (or two) of one of these Yuletide-evoking drinks and you and your guests will be in the holiday spirit in no time.
Mary Rockett's Milk Punch
Apparently folks in the 18th century also needed a little tipple to get through the holidays. This traditional recipe, adapted by cocktail expert David Wondrich, dates back to 1711.
Mary Rockett's Milk Punch
This delightfully smooth, liqueur-like formula dates back to 1711.
David Wondrich, Adapted from Imbibe! (Perigee Trade, 2007)
2 lemons
1 quart V.S. or V.S.O.P. Congac
1 cup sugar
3 oz lemon juice
1 pint whole milk
1/2 whole nutmeg, freshly grated
Using a vegetable peeler, peel lemons, avoiding the white pith as much as possible. Put the peels in a sealable, 2-quart glass container and pour Cognac over them. Cover and let sit for 48 hours.
Add sugar and lemon juice to the lemon-infused Cognac. Heat whole milk until scalding hot, then add to the cognac mixture and stir until the milk curdles. Stir in the grated nutmeg and let the punch sit for 1 hour.
Strain through fine cheesecloth or paper towels, bottle, and refrigerate. To serve, pour from chilled bottle into sherry glasses. If punch is too thick, add a little seltzer or, during winter, hot water.
Cardamom Old Fashioned
A subtle riff on the classic cocktail staple, this version uses maple syrup and cardamom bitters for a warming, fragrant antidote to winter doldrums.
CARDAMOM OLD FASHIONED
A subtle riff on the classic Old Fashioned, this version uses maple syrup in lieu of standard sugar, while handmade cardamom bitters step in for the more traditional Angostura variety, creating a warm, fragrant antidote to winter doldrums.
Elena North-Kelly, Managing Editor, James Beard Foundation
2 ounces rye whiskey
15 to 20 drops Bob’s Cardamom Bitters
1/2 teaspoon maple syrup
Orange twist (for garnish)
Pour the first three ingredients into a cocktail shaker.
Add ice and stir until thoroughly chilled.
Strain the mixture into a rocks glass, over ice.
Garnish with an orange twist, enjoy!
Negroni Sbagliato
It's no secret that everyone loves a negroni. Pro tip: just dress up your go-to drink for the holidays with a festive splash of bubbly.
NEGRONI SBAGLIATO
"The legendary Bar Basso in Milan (which originally opened in 1933 and moved to its current space in 1947) claims provenance of this buoyant little cousin to the Negroni, whose sbagliato addendum means “mistaken” or “incorrect” in Italian. Basso’s jovial proprietor Maurizio Stocchetto entertains guests with an origin tale citing his father, Mirko—a legendary midcentury barman and the owner of Bar Basso beginning in 1967—as the “accidental” inventor of the drink in the early 1970s, substituting prosecco for gin. Most impressively, the bar serves its sbagliato in a giant handblown goblet complete with an ice block the size of a car battery." — Talia Baiocchi and Leslie Pariseau
1 ounce Campari
1 ounce sweet vermouth
3 ounces prosecco
Orange half-wheel for garnish
Combine the ingredients in a rocks glass over ice and garnish with the orange wheel.
Le Père-Bis
Leave it to acclaimed mixologist Jim Meehan, of the Beard Award–winning PDT, to create a decidedly sophisticated hot toddy, anchored by Scotch, chamomile tea, honey, and a hint of floral St-Germain.
LE PÈRE-BIS
Jim Meehan, head bartender at the JBF Award–winning PDT, uses St-Germain to add delicate, floral undertones to this wintertime sipper.
1/2 cup honey
1/4 cup boiling water
4 ounces brewed chamomile tea
1 1/2 ounces Ardbeg 10-Year-Old Single Malt Scotch Whisky (or another intensely smoky Scotch whisky)
1/2 ounce St-Germain
1 lemon wedge studded with three cloves
Stir together the honey and water to make a syrup. Let cool. Measure out a half ounce of syrup and combine with the tea, whisky, and St-Germain in a heat-proof mug. Stir. Garnish the hot toddy with the clove-studded lemon wedge. Refrigerate remaining syrup for another use.
Gin-Gin Mule
This vibrant, ginger-spiked cocktail created by the legendary Audrey Saunders is one of the Pegu Club's signature drinks.
GIN-GIN MULE
This fresh and vibrant cocktail is one of Pegu Club’s signature drinks. By: Audrey Saunders
3/4 ounce fresh lime juice
1 ounce simple syrup
2 mint sprigs
1 3/4 ounce Tanqueray gin
1 ounce homemade ginger beer (We have used store bought ginger beer too.)
Lime wheel and candied ginger for garnish
Add the lime juice, simple syrup, and a mint sprig to a 10-ounce highball glass. Muddle well. Add the gin, ginger beer, and ice to a cocktail shaker. Shake well and strain into the highball glass. Garnish with the remaining mint spring, lime wheel, and candied ginger. Serve with long straws.
Hot Spiced Wine
As James Beard himself said, "cold-weather celebrations and holidays call for a huge punch bowl of hot spiced wine to enliven the festivities."
HOT SPICED WINE
Hot spiced wine, also known as “mulled wine,” goes by many names: glögg in Swedish, glühwein in German, vin chaud in French, and so on, and varies slightly from country to country. It is simply red wine heated with sugar and spices, and often lemon or orange rind, originally a process used to reconstitute wine that had gone bad. These days, cold-weather celebrations and holidays call for a huge punch bowl of hot spiced wine to enliven the festivities. By: James Beard, Author and Educator
4 oranges
Cloves
Rind of 1 lemon
2 bay leaves
3/4 cup cognac (brandy, or bourbon)
3 1/2 bottles red wine
1/2 cup sugar
Preheat oven to 350ºF.
Stick whole cloves into oranges, making a pattern if you like. Bake the oranges for 15 to 20 minutes, or until they are heated through and the cloves begin to show a little white dust, which looks very attractive.
Place oranges in a large heatproof bowl of silver or ceramic with the lemon rind and bay leaves. Heat cognac and pour it over the oranges, set it alight, and let it burn down. While it is burning, pour over the oranges about 3 bottles of good dry red wine, such as a California Pinot Noir or Cabernet Sauvignon, heated until very hot, but not boiling. Add the sugar and stir it in well. (The amount of sugar is up to you; you can sweeten to taste. I like a minimum or none at all, if the wine is good.)
Stir well and serve warm in mugs or glasses with a little twist of orange peel.
French Seventy-Five
Champagne, gin, and lemon juice come together for an effortlessly celebratory classic.
FRENCH SEVENTY-FIVE
What could be more fun, indulgent, and celebratory than a festive Champagne cocktail? Based on a Tom Collins, this recipe was originally published in James Beard's first book. James Beard; author and educator
1 tablespoon sugar syrup or superfine sugar
Juice of 1 lemon or 1 1/2 limes
4 ounces gin
2 ounces Champagne
Combine sugar syrup, juice, and gin in a cocktail shaker. Shake well. Pour into a 12-ounce glass with plenty of ice. Top with Champagne.
Winter can be a busy time for travel. Snowbirds try to escape the cold. Grandparents long to visit loved ones in distant cities. Jetsetters want to ring in the New Year in a memorable locale.
Regardless of the season, travel brings photo opportunities that are prime for posting on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and other social media platforms. But fraud-savvy people think twice before engaging in what's known as "instabragging." Here are examples of what could potentially go wrong and some protective measures to consider.
Social Media Risks
In 2017, Pew Research reported that seven in 10 Americans use social media, and more users join every day. This can be a fun way to connect with friends and relatives. But it's important to recognize that your "friends" aren't the only ones who might follow your posts and view your photos. Thieves also troll social media for signs that your house is empty or that you own something valuable — and then they strike.
No one tracks the number of thieves who found their "in" from social media. But many criminals admit that an empty house provides an opportunity for theft — and social media activity can tell them when you're away or when you purchase an expensive item.
Consider Maria and Pat, who were excited to visit their grandchildren for Thanksgiving. But they needed someone to watch their cat Buddy. So, Maria turned to their neighborhood Facebook group for petsitter recommendations. Her post included the couple's street name and the dates they'd be out of town.
When Maria and Pat returned home, Buddy was safe, but several electronic devices were missing. The police eventually caught the thief who had stolen from several neighbors over the holiday weekend. He told police officers that social media posts had led him to target specific victims that he knew were traveling.
Insurance Issues
Something as seemingly harmless as checking in at the airport or a fancy restaurant announces to criminals that you're away from home. It's like leaving your front door unlocked and your windows open while you're out — which is why some insurance companies argue that lax social media practices may violate the reasonable care provision of homeowners' or renters' policies.
An insurance policy's reasonable care clause stipulates that policyholders must take reasonable measures to protect their homes from thieves, such as locking doors and turning on security systems. Insurance companies could, in theory, deny a claim if you've posted information that causes thieves to target you. But, if you're caught engaging in irresponsible instabragging, the insurance company is more likely to increase your rates or cancel your policy after paying a claim.
Beyond Vacation
It's important to exercise caution on social media — even when you're not traveling — to safeguard your belongings and your family from sharing too much on social media. Start by thinking about how a thief could use your posts against you.
Consider this example: On Christmas night, Jaime posts a picture of her dad, watching football in front of his new 52-inch flat-screen television. Her brother Johnny comments that Dad seems frustrated that he couldn't get his new "girlfriend" (Alexa) to turn down the volume. Aunt Polly, who lives across town, comments that she can't wait for Dad to visit on New Year's Day.
It all sounds like playful banter — unless you're a thief who now knows that:
Dad owns two valuable pieces of electronic equipment (a TV and a device with a digital assistant), and
Dad's house will likely be empty on New Year's Day.
Here, the would-be thief was thwarted, because Mom didn't accompany Dad on his visit to Aunt Polly's house. However, this scenario also shows how social media posts can put not only your assets at risk, but also your loved ones.
10 Safety Tips
To avoid sharing too much information, consider these 10 smart social media practices:
1. Keep social media pages and posts private.
2. Don't provide your address or other personal information on any social media platform.
3. Don't brag about expensive purchases or trips.
4. Don't share photos from inside or outside your home. (These pictures can tell thieves where you live and what you own.)
5. Don't mention any smashed windows or broken alarms in your home.
6. Accept friend requests only from people you legitimately know.
7. Never announce when you're going on a vacation or traveling for work.
8. Never announce your check-in at airports, vacation destinations or local restaurants.
9. Use social media groups with caution. Although these groups limit access to members only, they can quickly grow, and there may be no one monitoring who's invited to join the group.
10. Share these tips with friends and family members, especially kids and grandkids who constantly post on social media. Young people are often more likely to brag and less diligent about security issues.
Also, consider investing in a home security system to prevent theft. These systems have become more affordable and user-friendly in recent years. Additionally, many systems now include cameras and can be accessed remotely with a laptop or smartphone.
For some reason, the holidays allow some of us to throw all dietary restrictions out the window without guilt. You will love this diet-free candy recipe, laced with whiskey. The creators of moonshine probably didn't have caramels in mind when concocting their firewater. To be honest, neither did we ... but it's a nice light compliment to the sweetness of this candy and we hope you will enjoy the recipe as much as we do. Great for gift giving!
Salted Whiskey Caramels
5 tbsp butter
1 cup heavy whipping cream
1/4 cup Whiskey (we used Jack Daniels' Old No. 7)
1 tsp vanilla
1/4 tsp kosher salt
1 1/2 cups sugar
1/4 cup light corn syrup
1/4 cup water
1 tbsp kosher salt, for sprinkling
candy thermometer needed
Line a 9-inch square pan with parchment or wax paper, allowing the paper to drape over the sides; spray lightly with cooking spray. We make a crease in the paper so if fits neatly into the pan.
Cream Mixture
In a 1-quart saucepan heat butter, whipping cream, whiskey, vanilla, and salt to boiling, watch carefully and stir frequently. Remove from heat.
Sugar Mixture
In a 3-quart saucepan mix sugar, corn syrup and water. Heat to boiling over medium-high heat. DO NOT STIR. Boil until sugar turns a warm golden brown.
When sugar mixture is done, turn off the heat and slowly add the cream mixture to the sugar mixture. BE CAREFUL - it will bubble up violently. Cook over medium-low heat for about 10 minutes, until mixture reaches 248 degrees F on a candy thermometer. Pour caramel into prepared pan; cool for 10 minutes.
Sprinkle with 1 tablespoon kosher salt; or desired amount; and cool completely. Cut into squares; wrap individually in wax paper.
Article: Peggy Wolff, Chicago TribunePublished 12:01 a.m. ET Dec. 14, 2017
At the culinary heart of Hanukkah (which began at sundown Tuesday) are foods fried in oil to commemorate the triumph of the Maccabees, who won back their sacred temple, and the miracle of the oil that burned for eight days.
But there’s another Hanukkah story, not as well-known, that shifts the culinary narrative to a brave woman and her killer cheese. This story from the Book of Judith explains why dairy makes it onto the holiday table.
According to “The Interpreter’s Dictionary of the Bible,” the Assyrian leader Nebuchadnezzar sent one of his generals, Holofernes, to destroy the Jews of Bethulia, a town that commanded access to the road to Jerusalem. The plan was to seize the spring at the foot of the mountain, so the Jews would be deprived of their water supply.
When the cisterns in the town were empty, the people began to lose heart. It seemed better to live as slaves than to die in vain. One woman in town, a beautiful widow named Judith, had another plan.
She left Bethulia, dressed in festival garments to entice any man she might meet, and equipped with wine and food. The Assyrian guards — entranced by Judith’s looks — opened the gates of the city and escorted her up the hill to the enemy camp.
Pleased by her appearance, her beauty and her wit, Holofernes invited Judith to a banquet in his tent. When his officers left him alone with her, the general was so charmed by her that he ate the salty cheese cakes she had prepared, then quenched his thirst with her wine. More cheese cakes, much more wine. Until he fell drunkenly asleep.
And then, Judith pulled out his sword, and cut off his head.
She left the camp without arousing suspicion, her maid carrying the head in a bag. When the threatening army saw their general’s head, they panicked and fled.
Because Judith saved the Jews from a death order, many Jews honor her by eating cheese and dairy dishes: rugelach, blintzes, cheesecake, cheese latkes, even sour cream on potato latkes.
“We used to have a cake that was made out of cheese, like a fried-cheese-type thing,” says chef Laura Frankel, culinary director for Kosher Media International. Until the fried cheese tradition made it to northern and eastern Europe where they fried things in schmaltz (animal fat).
“Obviously, with kosher rules,” Frankel explained, “you can’t fry anything with cheese in schmaltz.” Mixing dairy and meat is banned in Jewish dietary laws. “So they changed the cheese out for potatoes. It was something people ate a lot of, they were filling, they were plentiful.”
This brings us to a shocking revelation. Though the original latkes were cheese latkes, the Ashkenazic Jews (who brought the latke to America) subbed potatoes.
And thus was born the latke that we all love today.
Judith’s Cheese Pastries
Adapted from “A Treasury of Jewish Holiday Baking” by Marcy Goldman, these pastries symbolize the cheese cakes that Judith served to Holofernes. Farmer cheese is a form of cottage cheese with most of the liquid pressed out, giving it a solid, crumbly texture. For best results, refrigerate the dough 8 hours or overnight.
Cheese Pastries
Adapted from “A Treasury of Jewish Holiday Baking” by Marcy Goldman, these pastries symbolize the cheese cakes that Judith served to Holofernes. Farmer cheese is a form of cottage cheese with most of the liquid pressed out, giving it a solid, crumbly texture. For best results, refrigerate the dough 8 hours or overnight.
2 1/2 cups flour
1/2 tsp salt
1/2 cup sugar
2 tsp baking powder
2 sticks (one cup) unsalter butter (cut into 16 pieces)
1 cup farmers cheese
2 tsp finely minced lemon zest
1 tsp fresh lemon juice
1 tsp vanilla extract
Filling
1/2 lb cream cheese
1/2 cup sugar
1 Tbsp flour
1 tsp finely minced lemon zest
1 egg
1/2 tsp vanilla extract
1 pinch of salt
Topping
4 Tbsp melted butter
powdered sugar
For the dough: Sift the dry ingredients together in a large bowl; cut in the butter until the mixture resembles small crumbs. Blend in the farmer cheese to make a soft dough; then the lemon zest, lemon juice and vanilla. (For a food processor, pulse the dry ingredients together until combined. Add the butter; pulse until mixture resembles small crumbs. Add remaining ingredients; pulse until dough comes together. Knead on a lightly floured board to form a smooth ball.) Wrap the dough in plastic, and refrigerate overnight.
For the filling: Cream the cream cheese, farmer cheese and sugar together in a bowl until blended. Stir in remaining ingredients to make a thick filling. Refrigerate until ready to use.
Heat oven to 350 degrees. Line 2 baking sheets with parchment paper.
On a lightly floured surface, divide the chilled dough in half and roll each half into a 9-by-12-inch rectangle. Lightly brush each rectangle with 1 tablespoon melted butter.
Spread half of the cheese filling on each rectangle, leaving a 1-inch plain border all around. Fold in the 2 shorter ends on each rectangle. Beginning with the longer side, roll each piece into a log, but stop halfway. Cut off the remaining half of each piece and repeat, making another log. Each portion of dough will make 2 narrow logs.
Brush the tops of the 4 logs with the remaining 2 tablespoons melted butter. Chill, 10 to 15 minutes.
Remove logs from the fridge; cut them into 2-inch pastries. Place the pastries on the baking sheets. Bake until tops are golden brown, 25 to 30 minutes. Cool slightly, then dust with powdered sugar. Makes 24 to 30 pieces.
'Tis the season for merriment, which usually includes tasty meals and a cocktail or two. Remember Fido and Kitty when traveling to friends or family with your pets; and when guests travel to your home and meet your four legged companions for the first time. According to a survey by the Humane Society of the United States, nearly 164 million people in the United States own pets. This means that approximately 62 percent of all households are home to at least one pet. Since this is over half of us here in the U.S., we are sharing a few tips to keep in mind for your furry family member this time of year (and all year).
DO give your pets -
Plain green beans cooked or raw. No butter.
Plain potatoes, white or sweet potatoes
Plain white meat turkey in small amounts, NO gravy
Unsweetened canned pumpkin (my golden loves this)
DO NOT give your pets-
Animal bones
Garlic
Raisins or grapes
Avocado
Onions
Chocolate
Macadamia nuts or walnuts
Fatty foods
Bones
Skin
Sugar & artificial sweeteners -
No Christmas cookies or fruitcake
Alcohol (okay, who really does this?)
Remember ...
FLOWERS/PLANTS- Some can be fatal, others can cause serious illness or internal injury. (poinsettias, lilies, holly, mistletoe, roses etc…) Cover the water pan under the Christmas tree and secure it to avoid it getting knocked over.
CHOCOLATE- Chocolate and cocoa are highly toxic to cats and dogs.
CANDY- Some candy or other sweets are made with Xylitol. This is toxic to pets and cause hypoglycemia.
DECORATIONS- Ornaments, tape, ribbon, bows, wrapping paper, tinsel, garland, can all pose a threat as choking hazards. Dispose of them promptly before your pet gets a hold of them.
ELECTRICAL CORDS OR LIGHTS- If chewed these can cause burns in or around a pets mouth, difficulty breathing seizures or cardiac arrest.
COCKTAILS- ALCOHOL-Even a small amount can cause illness, or even coma or death to your pet. Keep out of reach and wipe up any spills immediately.
CANDLELIGHT- Curious kitties and waging tails can cause injury to your pet and a fire safety hazard to your home and everything in it. Never leave an open flame unattended. Keep pets away from those menorahs!
Thank you to Riverside Animal Hospital in Coral Springs, Florida for this great information!
By now everyone knows there was an angry storm that ravaged the Caribbean islands before moving up the state of Florida and the Keys this past week. Captain Fiona O'Connor, resident of the British Virgin Islands and a good friend of Culinary Latitudes, was lucky enough to make it through Irma's fury and devastation, along with several of her friends.
We interviewed Ms. O'Connor the end of August and learned so many amazing things about her and her life journey, and we are very eager to share her story. Although, currently nothing compares to the support and love she is showing the stranded islanders with her new kitchen and love of cooking!
Fiona's plans were to open a new business, Captain's Kitchen (more about this in the interview below), in October/November of this year. This new business will provide fresh local food as well as ready made meals to the sea travelers taking advantage of the crystal blue waters around the area.
After hurricane Irma's winds annihilated many of the homes in the BVI, Fiona has changed her focus to helping the land dwellers. "Remarkably my kitchen is standing strong" she said; and now the Captain's Kitchen team is working to feed people in need. She recently shared "One week on (after Irma hit) and slowly we are finding supplies easier, the military and British police are here in force and moral is high. I am staying in Tortola to help and continue with making Captain's Kitchen happen. I will just have to revert my business from the boating community to the (land) community. First things first, help the local community. ..."
Please read on to learn more about Captain Fiona and why she truly is an angel of the sea!
Fiona, would you please tell us a little about yourself and how you ended up settling in the British Virgin Islands:
I was born in the outback of the western parts of Australia to an Irish father and Italian (Australian born) mother, yet grew up on the coast in the east. I had a very enjoyable upbringing with camping trips, fishing, holidays around Australia. We had many animals, from Horses, dogs, cats, cows, guinea pigs, birds, fish, reptiles and more. I am the middle child with an older and younger brother, who I love spending time with when I go home.
I miss Australia, yet have always loved travelling and I have many friends who I keep in contact with back home. I visit Australia pretty much every year but with my new business I won’t make it back this year.
I embarked on my first journey overseas when I was 18 and I bought a one-way ticket to London. 1.5 years later I returned home with a whole new outlook and vision for my future. I had worked various jobs overseas as I moved through different countries and cultures. From a marine park to hospitality positions and an apprentice jockey at a famous stable. I returned home and moved to Byron Bay and started working in the charter industry at a busy Byron Bay dive shop called Sundive.
My first business was taking photos of beginners who learned to surf through the local surfing school. Even my dog was into the surfing scene. Gidjit became famous, and remained famous for years, as the mascot of the local surf shop named ‘Black Dog Surfing’. With this business, I was sponsored by the government as the NEIS ... which is the National Entrepreneur Incentive Scheme.
My love of the sea brought me to the British Virgin Islands and, as of this year, I’ve lived here for nearly 10 years and I have the support of an amazing group of friends. After all these years at sea I have decided to make a move from sea to land.
Tell us about your experience in becoming a captain:
I landed in the Boating industry in the small, yet very touristic, Aussie town on the east coast called Byron Bay. This was now 23 years ago. I started off as a deck hand, completed my dive masters in 1996, and went on to become a dive instructor and then a professional captain. Back then (in 1994) I was part of a very small percentage of women within this field.
Most of the courses I completed and the positions I have held have been mainly dominated by men. From diving, boating, first aid to heavy rigid truck, fork lift, and a tour guide in Kakadoo National Park.
After many years in this industry as mate, guide, chef, and instructor, and thousands of miles of experience, I chose to start looking for the position as Captain. I love boats and knew if someone would give me the opportunity to do so, then I could prove my experience, dedication and care for their vessel and crew. I was given this opportunity in 2007 and been in my element since. I have learned a lot over the years as a captain and I constantly encourage young, ambitious women to do the same … if that is where their passion lies.
One example of supporting women in business was the reality show called ‘The Sea Angels’. This TV show was written by me during a crossing from Aruba to Colombia about just this. Women helping people in need. This venture received much positive support and funding was obtained within months of sharing the idea with others. Now, over 50,000 nautical miles later, many ocean crossings, 48 countries visited, 8 years of living on boats, many new friends, sailing stories and fond memories, my full time at the helm is slowing down. Time to move back to this thing called ‘Land’.
What was your most memorable/thrilling adventure at sea?
I would have to say the ‘Nature Experiences’ I have had over the years. My love for animals, the ocean and adventure is what has driven me to choose a life away from family, friends and somewhat traditional responsibilities. I would say a story I do tell, which gives me a chill of excitement, would be when I was sailing into the Galapagos islands on a delivery to Australia from Road Town, BVI. My brother, Glen, was onboard and this was not only his first ever sailing experience yet also his first long sail --the Pacific Ocean! We could see the Galapagos Islands in the distance and dropped the sails as there was a huge amount of leatherback turtles on the surface, as well as seals, sailfish and sharks. We didn’t want to hit anything. I was at the helm and heard a huge blow from the spout of an orca whale right next to the boat! The orca was riding our wake and crossing under the boat and jumping in the wake! I could hardly yell out to the rest of the crew, I was lost for words! It looked so surreal. As far as nature goes, the Galapagos Islands is the most amazing group of islands I have visited to date. The following day was spent scuba diving with hundreds of hammerheads, seals, and a thousand other marine life. Albatross, aquatic iguanas and land tortoises were also seen while there.
And then there is the time of 25’ Seas, 60 knot winds, and an angry ocean where a crew member screamed frantically for her life in the middle of the Atlantic Ocean…yet that’s another story.
After all your years at sea, how did you come up with the idea of Captain’s Kitchen?
After years of working in the charter industry on captain only charters, crewed charters and deliveries, I realized what was lacking… time away from the galley and enjoying the surroundings. I came up with the idea of Captain’s Kitchen, to be launched here in the BVI, which will focus on the boating industry, villas, and also the local community. I saw a service that could save people time in the galley (often mums and the ladies) preparing meals for family and friends and allow them more time enjoying the beauty of the islands, sea and their vacation. With an online ordering system we would provide boat provisions, and even prepared meals, using local fresh ingredients where possible. This would make holidays for families and friends have a better flow. A local celebrity entrepreneur, Richard Branson, launched a scholarship program for eligible local startup businesses in 2017. My concept was accepted and I am now part of the Branson team. The Captain’s Kitchen will be launched October/November 2017.
Share a little about starting a business in the British Virgin Islands:
Starting a business anywhere is difficult, this is number 3 for me. It has been a challenge here in the BVI with the different laws and regulations. Some more difficult than back home in Australia and some so much more lenient. The island style life can be somewhat relaxed yet also the process of getting a trade license (necessary for everyone not born here in the BVI) and getting work permits for staff, bank loans and recognition is a difficult journey for an outsider. Everyone wanting to start a business must have a ‘belonger’ who is someone who has been living in the territory over 20 years and passes the eligible ‘belonger’ status. This would be a person born in the BVI who will hold 51% of the business. Even though the British Virgin Islands is an overseas territory of Britian, this does not allow any leniencies to those who carry a British passport. I have an Irish passport (my dad is from Dublin), Australian Passport, US visa and a BVI residency. I do like the rules here as it keeps the island quaint and unique.
Any other hobbies you'd like to share?
I have many interests. Growing up riding horses and competing is a fond memory I miss, yet I feel my ride is now at the helm of the various catamarans I captain. I also enjoy so much being in the galley and now the in the kitchen. My fantastic mum has always made beautiful meals from fresh home grown produce and family recipes passed down from her Italian father, who was a top chef from Milano. I believe my Italian heritage has a lot to do with my love of cooking with fresh ingredients. Another interest I have is underwater photography. I worked on Australia’s #1 Island Resort, Hayman Island, as their underwater videographer for 2 years. My current favorite new toy is a drone. To be able to see and photography of all these islands from above, without travelling in a helicopter, is mind blowing!
Finally, do you have a favorite recipe you’d like to share with us?
I must say, I do enjoy making pasta and reproducing my mama’s recipes. Making pasta, and cooking in general for me is very therapeutic, relaxing and fulfilling. My pasta is generally a whole day affair shared with friends, a bottle or two of red and a slow cooked sauce even my Nonno would be proud of. I’ll give you a little hint…make your pasta traditional style making sure you use organic eggs, organic flour, fine kosher salt and a little water if necessary.
Sauce Recipe by Fiona of Captain’s Kitchen
Captain Fiona's Pasta Sauce
This tasty sauce is best with fresh pasta and good friends!
quality red beef, finely diced (not ground beef!)
salt and pepper
red wine
1 heaping Tbsp tomato paste
onion, sauteed
garlic, sauteed
allspice
Italian herb blend
fresh parsley
Brown the beef in small portions in a hot pan. Add beef, salt and pepper, and enough water to a sauce pan to cover the beef. Simmer the beef for about an hour. Make sure the liquid does not dry out, keep the beef moist and saucy.
While this is simmering saute your onion and garlic in a quality oil until soft and set aside.
Open the next bottle of red – I love the Apothic Dark – a beautifully blended wine with dark fruits such as blueberries and blackberries with opulent notes of coffee and yes…dark chocolate. Yummo. Fantastic for drinking and make sure you save some for the sauce!
Once your sauce is thick and meaty add your extras. Tomato paste (I use a nice rich organic paste with no preservatives for a rich healthy flavor). About a table spoon and a bit...sautéed onion and garlic. Allspice, a rich blend of Italian herbs and salt and pepper. Simmer again for another couple of hours. Add the wine. Chopped fresh parsley. Simmer again for another hour.
By now your pasta should be dried, cut and ready for action. Remember pasta can be frozen and takes a while to make. When we have the pasta days, I always have people begging to take some home so making more rather than less is advisable for these such moments.
The sauce is ready when you can smell the flavor and scent of the spice (at least 4 hours) and richness of the tomato blended with the aromas of a patiently cooked meal. By this time everyone is hungry and ready for the longest pasta sauce construction they have ever tasted!
Quick version can be done in the pressure cooker yet does not have the same social effect. Buon Appetito!
The Inn at Whiskey Bella Ranch is sharing this tasty recipe for their signature scones. The chef is a personal friend of mine and said this recipe is the requested the most by their guests. Enjoy!
** Note (from Alanna) - here in Colorado, the dough is very dry, so I add just a bit more buttermilk, and I dump the dough on parchment paper in order to press it into the correct shape. Then I can use the parchment to help me roll the dough into a nice rectangle before cutting and freezing. The parchment paper has saved my life with this recipe.
Article by: Travel Agent Center; 
The Caribbean remains a popular destination for weddings and honeymoons, according to several travel agents that we spoke with. The reasons being that it’s a quick flight and the atmosphere of the Caribbean and the people “seem to say, ‘Let’s party!’,” according to Julia Shore from Reid Travel. However, she tells us that she’s taken a special interest in Morocco lately.
Article: 
'Tis the season for merriment, which usually includes tasty meals and a cocktail or two. Remember Fido and Kitty when traveling to friends or family with your pets; and when guests travel to your home and meet your four legged companions for the first time. According to a survey by the Humane Society of the United States, nearly 164 million people in the United States own pets. This means that approximately 62 percent of all households are home to at least one pet. Since this is over half of us here in the U.S., we are sharing a few tips to keep in mind for your furry family member this time of year (and all year).
things about her and her life journey, and we are very eager to share her story. Although, currently nothing compares to the support and love she is showing the stranded islanders with her new kitchen and love of cooking!
ticket to London. 1.5 years later I returned home with a whole new outlook and vision for my future. I had worked various jobs overseas as I moved through different countries and cultures. From a marine park to hospitality positions and an apprentice jockey at a famous stable. I returned home and moved to Byron Bay and started working in the charter industry at a busy Byron Bay dive shop called Sundive.
I would have to say the ‘Nature Experiences’ I have had over the years. My love for animals, the ocean and adventure is what has driven me to choose a life away from family, friends and somewhat traditional responsibilities. I would say a story I do tell, which gives me a chill of excitement, would be when I was sailing into the Galapagos islands on a delivery to Australia from Road Town, BVI. My brother, Glen, was onboard and this was not only his first ever sailing experience yet also his first long sail --the Pacific Ocean! We could see the Galapagos Islands in the distance and dropped the sails as there was a huge amount of leatherback turtles on the surface, as well as seals, sailfish and sharks. We didn’t want to hit anything. I was at the helm and heard a huge blow from the spout of an orca whale right next to the boat! The orca was riding our wake and crossing under the boat and jumping in the wake! I could hardly yell out to the rest of the crew, I was lost for words! It looked so surreal. As far as nature goes, the Galapagos Islands is the most amazing group of islands I have visited to date. The following day was spent scuba diving with hundreds of hammerheads, seals, and a thousand other marine life. Albatross, aquatic iguanas and land tortoises were also seen while there.
Starting a business anywhere is difficult, this is number 3 for me. It has been a challenge here in the BVI with the different laws and regulations. Some more difficult than back home in Australia and some so much more lenient. The island style life can be somewhat relaxed yet also the process of getting a trade license (necessary for everyone not born here in the BVI) and getting work permits for staff, bank loans and recognition is a difficult journey for an outsider. Everyone wanting to start a business must have a ‘belonger’ who is someone who has been living in the territory over 20 years and passes the eligible ‘belonger’ status. This would be a person born in the BVI who will hold 51% of the business. Even though the British Virgin Islands is an overseas territory of Britian, this does not allow any leniencies to those who carry a British passport. I have an Irish passport (my dad is from Dublin), Australian Passport, US visa and a BVI residency. I do like the rules here as it keeps the island quaint and unique.
