|
|
Repeat
 |
What's Going to Be Under Your Tree? |
|
|
|
Candy
bars, milk shakes, cookies, flavored coffee-even cereal and medicine---
chocolate has been a key ingredient in many of our daily eats. In
fact, it ranks as the favorite flavor of most Americans.
And yet, few of us know the unique origins of this
popular treat. Say "Merry Mexico, Honey!"
The story of chocolate spans more than 2,000 years
and now circles the globe. While countries like
Belgium and Switzerland have become synonymous
with the confection, the chocolate tale began in the
tropical rainforests of Central and South America
where the cacao tree has been nurtured and grown
here for centuries, and whose flavors infuse the local
Yucatán cuisine.
"Our
battered suitcases were piled on the sidewalk again; we had longer ways to
go. But no matter, the road is life." - Jack Kerouac
|
|
Land of the White Clouds |
|
Described by National Geographic as a world in
miniature, New Zealand is a land of rare natural
beauty and breathtaking contrasts. Like Rotorua, the
spirit
of Manaakitanga-a uniquely Maori concept.
Manaakitanga places the obligation on the hosts to
give the visitor the very best of themselves. It is deep-
rooted cultural concept, expressed throughout the
Polynesian world. To arrive in Rotorua, is to know
immediately that you are somewhere, unlike
anywhere else. Hissing geysers just minutes from the
city centre, scalding water, bubbling mud and sinister
formations remind you that you are close to incredible
earthly forces and towering volcanoes (thankfully now
dormant) are reminders of this land's turbulent past.
"Twenty years from now you will be more
disappointed by the things you didn't do than by the
ones you did do... Explore. Dream. Discover."-
Mark Twain
|
|
Take a Napa |
|
Napa County's wine country is the second most
popular vacation destination in California and
deservedly so. The land in Napa, California, is
stunningly beautiful. Stretching from the San
Francisco Bay to the rugged mountains north of
Calistoga, Napa Valley is a sight to behold. Complete
now with it's very own castle.
Spring is spectacular in Napa, with fields abloom with
yellow mustard flowers, vines coming to life, and
fauna renewing the cycle of life everywhere.
"I have made an important discoverry that alcohol,
taken in sufficient quantities, produces all the effects
of intoxication."- Oscar Wilde
|
|
Like a First Kiss |
|
The love of good eating, beauty and the land is why
Provence has charmed visitors for centuries. The
sparkling sun, the scent of flowers and herbs in the
air and panoramic vistas have long been the source
of inspiration and restoration. What better way to
savor the lively Mediterranean flavors than residing in
our own private "mas"
It's so beautifully arranged on the plate - you know
someone's fingers have been all over it. ~Julia Childs
|
|
Kings & Castles |
|
Imagine sitting across a bountiful dinner table, filled
with regional foods, with the winemakers themselves.
Listening and interacting with them about life in the
vineyards. Hear and feel the passion and taste it in
their wines. In this northwestern region of Italy, June
is abuzz with gastronomic activity and we think it is the
best time for a food and wine lover's visit.
"Traveling is almost like talking with men of other
centuries." -- René Descartes
|
|
Amore Toscana |
|
Medieval castles, fortresses and towers spread
across the countryside - ancient reminders that this
was the heart of the Renaissance. Sandy roads cut
swathes through a variegated patchwork of rolling
hills and grain-laden plains. And centuries-old
vineyards share the landscape with olive groves and
cypress trees. Albeit the birthplace of Leonardo da
Vinci and Michelangelo, no artist can fully capture
the beauty and abundance that is Tuscany. It is a
region rich in history and culture as well as culinary
tradition.
Travelling is the ruin of all happiness! There's no
looking at a building here after seeing Italy.
More funny Fanny Burney quotes
|
|
A Real Prince Charming |
|
Dordogne's countryside tempts one's senses with
fragrant orchards, dew-kissed vineyards and rolling
fields of sunflowers. It is a fairy tale land of medieval
villages, castles, lords and ladies, and breathtaking
countryside that in the summer blossoms with fields
of sunflowers. Given its scenery and serenity, it's
difficult to believe that Dordogne was once the site of
fierce fighting during the 100-Years War between
France and England. In fact, this sleepy southwest
region of France belies its tumultuous past - save its
ancient fortresses, stone cottages, towering cliffs and
artifact-rich caves.
"If you actually look like your passport photo, you aren't
well enough to travel" -Sir Vivian Fuchs
| Quick Links... |
|
|
|
|
|
