10 Excellent Travel Tour Companies to Book Your Next Trip With

There is no right or wrong way to travel. The important thing is getting out there. If you find the prospect of planning a trip a bit daunting, or if the thought of being left to your own devices in a foreign country does not sound like an adventure, or if you have specific niche interests when you travel, seeking the services of a tour company may be the right move for you.

Tour companies come in all varieties, from luxury to budget, from adventure travel tours to food and wine tours. There are family friendly tour groups as well as tour groups for gay men and solo female travelers. Whatever your desire, whatever your pleasure, chances are there is a tour company that suits your needs.

Here are  10 excellent travel tour companies to book your next trip with:

1) Wander Tours

Focusing mainly on SouthEast Asia, Wander Tours offers unique cultural travel itineraries. There are specific female only tours, while others are co-ed. Wander Tours also sponsors culinary tours in the United States in Washington and Santa Fe.

2) Micato Tours

Have you always wanted to visit Africa, but the thought of roughing it in the Serengeti makes you nervous? One of the top luxury travel companies, Micato specializes in extravagant African Safari vacations.

3) Abercrombie and Kent

If luxury international travel is more your speed, Abercrombie and Kent has the right package for you. Abercrombie and Kent offers luxury tours to every corner of the globe. From New Zealand, to Antarctica, to Egypt, to Botswana, Abercrombie and Kent will ensure a first-class travel experience in comfort and classic style.

4) Henderson Travel

Henderson Travel Service specializes in quality, down to earth tours, the majority of which are to destinations in Africa and Asia. Singles, large groups, and families are welcome. Custom tours are available.

5) Cinnamon Traveler Tour Adventures

Cinnamon Traveler Tour Adventures focuses on key locations enriched by the African diaspora such as Brasil and Cuba. Other national destinations include Martha's Vineyard, Atlanta and New York (woot woot!). Whether you're interested in learning the Samba in Brasil or relaxing by the beach in Martha's Vineyard, Cinnamon is a unique company with an artsy edge.

6) Creative Culinary Tours

If you dream of experiencing the world through your sense of taste then Creative Culinary Tours is the company for you. Emphasizing the great culinary traditions of New England, these tours offer decadent meals and samplings and are open to families and travelers of all ages.

7) Classic Journeys

Classic Journeys captures the romance of travel. From tours through the colorful bazaars of Morocco, to wine tasting in picturesque Tuscany, Classic Journeys create itineraries sure to satisfy your wanderlust. Over 70 tours are offered throughout South America, Africa, Europe, and Asia.

8) Gadventures

If adventure travel is more your speed, Gadventures may have the perfect tour for you. Whether you're ideal vacation includes climbing the Canadian Rockies, surfing in Portugal or Hawaii, or trekking Australia's Outback, Gadventures boasts adventure iteneraries to every corner of the globe that will be sure to please.

9) Journeys for Families

Journeys for Families offers engaging tours for families with children of all ages. If you're interested in exposing your child to the world in a safe and fun environment, or are planning a multi-generational family trip, this tour company is a great resource.

10) I-to-I

I-to-I is a great company for college students and those on gap-year. Though you are welcome at any age, I-to-I's niche is the student travel industry. With offerings all over the globe, you can choose to combine volunteer work with sightseeing adventures. From working with baby lions in South Africa to elephant trekking in Thailand, I-to-I has a wonderful selection of tours, adventures, and volunteer projects that can be used independently or put together to create a custom travel experience.

Do you have a favorite tour company? *This is a true story. Names have been changed to protect the innocent.

Rat Rides the Subway

It is early and you're disoriented. Your boots clack as you make your way towards the end of the cement subway platform. There is a windy chill sneaking underground from a grate above you. As you take your place, coffee in hand, something catches your eye. A potato chip bag, a red UTZ bag to be specific, is moving in curious circles. It is most definitely not being propelled by the wind. Cautiously you step closer and realize the bag has a tail. You promptly back away, but you don't back too far away, because you still need to be at the end of the platform, you still have to make it from Brooklyn to the Bronx to lead a workshop that starts promptly at 8am.

You can't take your eyes off the bag. You watch it wiggle and sway, until out pops the culprit, a brown mid-sized rat. Not too large you note as far as New York City subway rats come, but not a small fellow either. Luckily, you're not afraid of rats, you regard him as entertainment. You are drawn in by his shiny little eyes and swear you can almost make out a set of delicate eyelashes. He's rather cute you think to yourself as he grips a potato chip in his front claws or paws or whatever rat hands are called. You can't help but think that if you were the little fellows rat mother that you'd probably name him Thistle, or Sage, or Buckley, or, no-you decide, Thistle, definitely Thistle.

You smile at Thistle as the train roars into the station. Thistle does not smile back, he looks terrified. The noisy clamor startles Thistle and as the doors open, he leaps into the train car ahead of you. As you make your way towards your seat you look for Thistle. Others are looking too. Most people attempt composure, pretend they are too cool to be ruffled by a rat, while others scream and jump on their seats in panic as young Thistle, at least you think he's young, scurries the length of the train car beneath the row of seats.

You smile. You root for your friend as a group of construction workers try to smash him.

Up and down the length of the car Thistle runs. Unaffected hipsters lift their boots to allow Thistle free rein. Men and women in suits hop from foot to leather clad foot as Thistle rushes past. A homeless man wrapped in a stained quilt tilts his furry head back and laughs a hearty toothless laugh.

"Yo, did you see that!" a group of teens bogged down by sagging backpacks runs to the opposite side of the car.

As the train screeches into Union Square, off Thistle bounds the moment the doors part, his wiry tail waving goodbye.

You grin as you sip your coffee and laugh with the strangers who share your morning commute. You could be anywhere this morning, but you're in New York, arguably the worlds most unpredictable city and you just rode the train with an unpredictable rat named Thistle.

*This is a true story. Names have been changed to protect the innocent.

Brooklyn's MoCADA

In an unassuming brick building in downtown Brooklyn, you'll find a cultural gem- The Museum of Contemporary African Diasporan Arts or simply the MoCADA.

The MoCADA is a vibrant and intimate museum space featuring paintings, photographs, sculpture, music, performance pieces, and installations that relate to the experience of the African diaspora as experienced in a contemporary context.

It is an incredibly unique space with a community feel. The one-story museum is small and is comprised of three main rooms in which to experience the exhibits.

Through the entrance you'll find the gift shop which is an experience in and of itself. The gift shop features an inspiring collection of books, art, jewelry, toys, crafts, and various other trinkets from local artists and artisans. It is a great place to shop for unique gifts and you'll be supporting local talent.

Located at (80 Hanson Pl Brooklyn, NY), admission is by donation. The MoCADA observes the following hours:

Wednesday 12pm to 7pm Thursday 12pm to 8pm Friday 12pm to 7pm Saturday 12pm to 7pm Sunday 12pm to 6pm

Best Healthy Snacks for Travel

Let's face it, travel can be exhausting. Between long dehydrating flights where you are served bland microwaved food, to lengthy road trips where the only places to pull over seem to have golden arches, travel can deplete your energy and vigor due to limited food choices. Eating a balanced diet on the road, takes much creativity and flexibility. Healthy eating on the road usually means a healthy satisfying trip, so get in there, sample local cuisine, do what you must on that long car ride, but fill in nutrition gaps with these healthy travel snacks. The Best Healthy Snacks for Travel:

1) Dark Chocolate Covered Espresso Beans- Dark chocolate is full of anti-oxidants and flavonoids. A mood enhancer and mild stimulant (due to the caffeine), dark chocolate covered espresso beans will leave you feeling invigorated and upbeat. These are the perfect treats at the end of a very long plane ride. Dark chocolate covered espresso beans will also hold you quite well if you are spending considerable time in a country where you will not be able to find chocolate deserts.

2) Chia Seeds- One tablespoon a day will keep you energized and feeling balanced. Chia seeds are chock full of omega-3's, iron, and fiber and are an excellent anti-oxidant source. Easy to pack (zip-lock bag) and non-perishable, these seeds will keep you going when there's a lack of nutritious food options.

3) Goji Berries- These little red dried berries are full of anti-oxidants and vitamin A. Goji berries contain a compound that serves as an immune system booster, an essential asset to travelers everywhere. Goji berries are super easy to pack (once again zip-lock bag in your carry on) and are non-perishable.

4) Almonds- Sweet, crunchy almonds are a great snack while on the road. Filling and hearty, almonds contain a slew of essential nutrients and vitamins such as calcium, vitamin E, folic acid, magnesium, and zinc. A handful of almonds are a great cure for a hunger headache. I keep a zip-lock bag full of almonds in my carry on at all times. Almonds taste great mixed with goji berries!

5) Seaweed Crackers- My son Ohm is addicted to these mineral rich treats. Rich in vitamins A, B and C, seaweed crackers are pleasantly savory and provide sustained energy and vitality. Seaweed crackers come in thin sheets that are non-perishable and can easily be placed inside a zip-lock bag and popped into a carry on.

6) Ginger Chews- Ginger is a wonderful digestive aid. Ginger treats annoying travel ailments like gas and nausea. Ginger chews (make sure you get real ginger root and not a ginger flavored candy) are small and easy to pack (as they typically come in a tin). Ginger also tastes great and is wonderfully satisfying for those with a sweet tooth.

7) Kale Chips- Can't find fresh vegetables on the road, no problem, kale chips to the rescue. Kale chips are marvelous! Each crispy dehydrated leaf is loaded with all of the vitamins and minerals you'd expect to find in the steamed version. Kale chips are rich in vitamin K, vitamin C, vitamin A, calcium, magnesium, potassium and copper. Easy to pack, Kale chips are a great way to eat your greens on the road!

8) Squeezable Fruit and Veggie Pouches- When you've got a little one, these pouches (there are many brands and varieties) are invaluable. My favorite brand is Ella's because of the many veggie combinations, the thick consistency  and because it's organic. Veggie pouches pack easily and are a wonderful way to ensure a balanced diet. Note, you must refrigerate after opening if your baby or tot doesn't finish the pouch in one sitting.

Exploring the world, doesn't have to mean compromising your health. Packing one or two (or heck- all) of these snacks can leave your mind, body, and spirit invigorated, healthy and vibrant the next time you travel.

What are your favorite travel snacks?

Champagne With A View At the Plaza Hotel

"Cheers."

We clicked our delicate flute glasses together with a 'ting'.

Veuve Clicquot tickled my tongue before sliding smoothly down my throat.

Krista and I had found the perfect remedy to enliven a frigid, slate, windy, and otherwise inhospitable Manhattan afternoon

Outside, wispy snow flakes tumbled from the sky, framing the base of Central Park with a soft haze.

Krista's clutch, black velvet and petite, glistened on the arm of her chair.

Our waiters shoes, shined to perfection, slid gracefully over the carpeted floor.

In the distance music played softly.

In the window, I smiled at our reflection. It was the perfect day to dust off my pearls.

It was a lovely afternoon.

New York had been a bully lately. Within the span of a week, the temperature dropped 40 degrees. Chilly blue skies were replaced by gray clouds and biting cold. Howling winds, slippery streets and a massive flu outbreak have made hibernating in my apartment, having food and wine delivered, and streaming Netflix a very attractive option. After a week of being a relative hermit however, cabin fever set in. I was itching for something fun to do.

Not enough snow to play in, too cold and wet to enjoy the outdoors, things looked bleak.

My friend Krista shared my weary winter blues and it was decided that instead of spending Saturday at home in our sweatpants with Netflix, we would go all out, get dressed up and enjoy a lovely (albeit cold) afternoon sipping champagne at the Plaza. It was the adult equivalent of a little girls tea party.

The Champagne Bar at the Plaza Hotel is a wonderful place to retreat to for a quick escape. Through the lobby and to the left, the champagne bar in all of its splendor, awaits you.

The ambiance is everything you would expect from the Plaza hotel. Elaborate crystal chandeliers hang gracefully above the immaculate marble floor. We lounged the afternoon away in plush velvet chairs, clinking glasses as we enjoyed our unobstructed view of Central Park and the line of Clydesdale carriage horses ready to chauffeur tourists to and from.I was the perfect escape!

The next time you're in Manhattan and find yourself on fifth avenue, why not treat yourself to a well deserved mini break from the hustle and bustle of the city.

"Cheers!"

The Plaza Hotel (768 5th Ave, New York, NY 10019)

(Yes. We pulled out a pair of pink feathered boas.)

Game Time at Brooklyn's Barclays Center- Go Net's Go!

I am many things, a sports enthusiast I am not.

A resident of Clinton Hill, Brooklyn, I, like many of my neighbors watched with curiosity and some anxiety as our neighborhood underwent a massive change - the arrival of the Barclays Center Stadium. I watched the Barclays stadium grow, almost rod by rod. I watched my husband and his friends salivate and buzz with glee at the prospect of Brooklyn gaining its own NBA team. I watched, I waited, until one day in the early Fall it had transpired. Brooklyn was the home of a world-class, state of the art, arena.

Off we walked, one chilly evening, Mark, Ohm, and I (well, technically Ohm was carried), 15 minutes down Atlantic Avenue towards the Barclays Center to catch one of the first games of the season.

Whereas I wasn't particularly thrilled about the prospect of sitting through a basketball game, I was curious about the massive new stadium that had descended upon Brooklyn like a spaceship.

The stadium had garnered quite a buzz and not just from sports fans. There was a prominent roster of concerts that the venue was slated to host.

After making our way through the very long line that snaked around Flatbush, we were greeted by an ultra-modern, classy and clean event space that more closely resembled a fancy office building than a basketball arena. I was impressed.

As we made our way toward the concessions, I was astonished. Instead of the standard popcorn, hotdogs and soda, there were local gourmet food options including, sushi, Junior's famous deserts, Blue Marble Ice Cream, a fresh salad, a Habana Outpost stand and a host of other delectable local Brooklyn favorites. It was, minus the basketball part, my kind of stadium.

Our seats were comfortable as far as seats go. The game happened as far as games go. People cheered, players played and I read magazines and snapped pictures.

At 16 months, it was Ohm's first basketball game. He had a great time, as did the other children in the crowd. I was surprised to see so many little ones. As far as venues go, it was quite child-friendly (just be careful on the very steep stairs).

The Barclays Center did not disappoint! I look forward to visiting again. Only next time, I hope my visit will be for the purpose of  a concert or the circus as opposed to a basketball game...

The Barclays Center is located at:

620 Atlantic Ave, Brooklyn, NY 11217

Click here for a schedule of events.

9 Tips for Taking Your Toddler on a Road Trip

Traveling with your little one is a wonderful way to introduce them to the world. Road trips are an easy and enjoyable way to expose your munchkin to the many cities, towns and states that comprise the USA and perhaps Canada or Mexico too (how adventurous are you?).

During a road trip, you are the master of your itinerary. You're free to make as many stops and take as many detours as you need. With a little planning, you can transform your car into a comfortable homelike environment where your tot can feel relaxed and safe.

If you're ready to hit the open road with your little one, here are nine tips for taking your toddler on a road trip:

1) Turn your child's backseat area into a comfortable, stimulating, home-like environment. Grab a couple of his/her favorite board books and toys, a favorite blanket or snuggie and place them where they can be easily reached. Provide plenty of opportunities for self-entertainment.

2) Bring along a fun playlist or CD of songs your little one recognizes and adores. There are a lot of opportunities for fun and memory making here. Encourage your tot to have a dance party in his safety seat. You can do the same from the front seat (unless you're the one driving). Have a family sing-along. Whatever you do and however you do it, have fun.

3) Pack your  iPad or Tablet. My husband Mark and I spent a lot of time trying to keep Ohm awake on our last road trip. Kids love to sleep in the car which is lovely for adults but too much sleep can backfire at bedtime thus potentially throwing your entire schedule off. To keep him awake and lively, we played some of his favorite shows (a lot of Backyardigans and Sesame Street). We have an iPad holder that sits on the back of the driver's head rest- it's like gold. The iPod works well at night too if your child gets fussy in the dark. Pssst - the iPad works wonders on husbands as well.

4) Pull over often and let your little one stretch their limbs and run about. We pulled over every 2 1/2 to 3 hours.

5) Pack snacks! You can never have too many. Pack a good variety so your little one will have plenty of healthy options since road travel most often means fast food. Make sure to pack plenty of fluids and place them somewhere easily accessible.

6) Have an extra pair of clothes and several extra diapers and wipes on hand- you just never know. Between food, drink and bathroom accidents, you never know when an extra shirt may come in handy. You're not going to want to dig around in your suitcase. I turned my glove compartment into a mini diaper bag.

7) Dress your little one in soft comfortable clothes and layer. Depending on your trip, you may cross multiple climate zones. You'll want to be ready. Your little ones comfort and contentment is equal to your comfort and contentment.

8) Make your road trip educational and fun. Depending on the age of your child, you can plan to make stops at museums, zoos, national parks, and cultural sites of interest. Pulling over to pick peaches at a farm in Georgia for example is a great way to teach your child about regional fruit and is a wonderful form of exercise after spending hours in the car. If your tot is really small, simply making an educational game out of identifying all of the familiar objects will entertain them. "Look, a tree! T is for tree, t-r-ee. Look, a truck! T is also for truck, vroom vroom - etc."

9) Take time for yourself! Listening to Sesame Street for hours on end, or to your child's favorite Raffi CD on loop can take its toll on your sanity. There is nothing wrong with silent breaks, or listening to your music while your child self-entertains. Encourage independent play! When your little one does fall asleep, and they will thanks to the lull of the car, make sure that you take time for yourself. Engage in an adult conversation, listen to the music you like, if you're in the passenger seat take a nap, it will save your sanity.

Taking a road trip with a toddler is not without its challenges, but it is well worth the effort. With a little planning, a little creativity and a little ingenuity, you can build memories and explore the world together.

Have you traveled with a tot?

Broadway Week/ Restaurant Week- It's Time to Visit New York!

The ornately ensconced lights were deliciously dim. Excited chatter filled the space around me as I sunk into the plush seat. With an air of quiet dignity, the curtains parted revealing a beautifully detailed, expertly lit set, a grand replica of the interior of a Victorian era brownstone.

The Heiress, a period drama set in 19th century New York City is the story of Catherine Sloper, a young woman of great affluence and fortune whom despite her training and exposure, has grown into a shy, reclusive, awkward creature.

Catherine’s disposition is distressing to her father, a prominent New York physician who wants nothing more than for his daughter to blossom into a witty, charming, fashionable beauty. Desperately seeking her father’s approval, her attempts to please him succeed only in driving him away.

Just when we think our protagonist is doomed to a loveless life of needlepoint and cats, the debonair Morris Townsend shakes up the foundation of young Catherine’s world.

The result is a sharply executed multi-layered story with universal appeal.

The Heiress stars Jessica Chastain (Academy Award® nominee for The Help), David Strathairn (Academy Award® nominee for Good Night, and Good Luck), Dan Stevens (Matthew Crawley on Downton Abbey) and Judith Ivey (two-time Tony Award® winner).

The Heiress plays through February 10^th 2013 at the Walter Kerr Theatre (219 West 48th Street, between Broadway and 8th Avenue)

This is one of the best times to take advantage of Broadway. Broadway Week is in full swing. During Broadway week, you can buy one ticket and get the second free. It’s a great way to grab a friend or a date and discover a new favorite show. It also turns out, that New York City is in the middle of Restaurant Week 2013 which is always a great excuse to dine and wine yourself into a food coma. During Restaurant Week, some the city’s best restaurants feature discounted Prix-Fixed menus. The fact that these two events overlap is very good news for you when it comes to planning and enjoying a great night out in Manhattan.

Here’s what you do to take advantage of Broadway Week tickets:

Broadway week runs January 22^nd-February 7^th.

The Heiress is my current top choice when it comes to plays but there are so many others.

Click here to see a list of participating shows and to purchase tickets.

Here’s what you do to take advantage of Restaurant Week:

Restaurant Week (which is more like Restaurant Month) runs from January 14^th-February 8^th

Click here to see a list of participating restaurants and to make reservations.

*I’d like to thank BlogHer, Have to Have, and Serino Coyne for sponsoring my fabulous Night on Broadway!

What's your favorite show of the moment?

What is Savannah, Georgia Like?

 

At first glance:

Pulling off the I-4 I had to do a double take. We were suddenly and inexplicably surrounded by darkness. I looked at the dashboard, it was 9:30 pm, I looked out the window again, the streets of Savannah, Georgia were deserted. I was unnerved. Then there was the sound, “scccccccccccccccrrrrrrrrrrrrttttttttttttttccccch,” as droopy mossy vines scratched against the top of our car. It was ghostly.  The hair on the back of my neck was at full attention.

“I don’t know about this Savannah business.” I whispered to my husband Mark as we unloaded the car and made our way to the dimly lit hotel.

As far as cities go, upon first impression, after dark, on a Thursday, Savannah was full of shadows and low empty places.

Then:

By seven o’clock the next morning, the sun was out, the birds were singing, the breeze was slow and warm, and Savannah presented herself vibrant and welcoming.

People strolled the cobblestone streets with their morning coffees. Dogs were walked, baby strollers were pushed, there was life here.

Historic Savannah was alive and radiating splendor.

Savannah is a romantic portal into the past!

The city is compact and perfectly planned for pedestrians. Elaborate parks and green squares pop up every few blocks. Winding along wide cobblestone paths you’ll find historic plaques commemorating landmarks many with their original wood and brick details. Ornate statues decorate beautiful circular green spaces, dotted with sweeping willows and mossy pines. Savannah is artfully preserved and meticulously maintained.

*Note: Pushing a stroller over those cobblestone streets is a workout!!!!!

The streets of Savannah are wide and sprawling. Row houses, restaurants and boutique shops give the city a sophisticated and aged air.

The Savannah waterfront is simply stunning. There is something to be said about old cities set on the water, they rarely disappoint. There is an easily accessible walking path that will lead you past candy shops and taverns, galleries and restaurants. The aroma of sweet pralines fills the wafting air.

Every few blocks, Mark dashed out of a shop with a hot buttery sample of praline brittle. Savannah’s praline brittle, when done well, melts in your mouth- a sweet and salty buttered symphony unfolds. You can’t help but smile as you continue your walk, between the breeze and the water, the praline brittle and the beautiful shops, it’s almost enough to compel one to skip and hum.

Savannah, Georgia is easily one of the most beautiful colonial cities in America boasting the best of Southern hospitality and charm and gorgeous architecture. Savannah bears witness to centuries of history and is a hub of modern innovation. Long story short, I love Savannah!

Savannah, Georgia is:

Charming

Savannah was one of the most polite cities that I have ever visited. Everywhere doors were held and people nodded and drawled happy greetings. It was warm without being false, without condescension. Savannah is refreshing.

The Most Haunted City in America

If you think about it, it makes sense. Between the Revolutionary War, the Civil War, Slavery, horrible malaria outbreaks, the phenomena of “strange fruit” hanging from trees, Savannah has seen its share of horror, anguish, and bloodshed. She is a pretty lady with a very dark side, thus earning herself the distinction as America’s most haunted city.

There is no shortage of ghost tours in the city. Some are by foot, others by carriage, one took tourists around in a Hearst (eek).

A Stunning Spectacle

A History Lover’s Treasure Chest

One of America’s first planned cities circa 1733; my history geeky tendencies were over-stimulated in Savannah.

Originally the home of the Yamacraw Indians, Savannah was transformed into a prized and productive British colony.

In 1779, during the American Revolution, Savannah was the setting for the pivotal Siege of Savannah, where American and French troops fought in vain to reclaim the city in one of the bloodiest battles of the American Revolution.

After the revolution Savannah thrived. Thousands of slaves from West Africa landed on the port of Savannah, where they were forced into brutal labor. Savannah is the location of one of the largest slave auction sites in the U.S. Savannah slaves cleared land, tended cattle, engaged in farm labor and worked on the notoriously dangerous rice and cotton plantations. Benefiting from the institution of slavery, the city rose to great power and prestige, only to fall towards the end of the Civil War during Sherman’s March to the Sea, when the port of Savannah was overcome by Union forces crippling the city’s industry.

Savannah was at the center of the Civil Right’s movement. The city saw lynchings and a great deal of Ku Klux Klan activity. With a large and active black community, protests among black community leaders, demanding fair treatment during the Jim Crow years date back to WWII.

Integration was a struggle in Savannah, as was moving forward, but the city has grown into a small and relatively diverse (Savannah boasts a large South Asian population) and progressive city of the New South.

Today, perfectly restored, Savannah holds her own. She holds her past, but most importantly, she holds the promise of a bright future.

A weekend in Savannah may result in the need to buy new pants!

The people of Savannah, Georgia eat well. They eat very well indeed. When I hear the term “down home cooking,” Savannah is what comes happily to mind.

After all, Savannah is home to celebrity cook Paula Dean. She has a beautiful shop in the center of downtown, boasting sweet, succulent goodness.

Local eateries abound on every corner with down-home Southern touches that are soul stirring and rib sticking good.

You can’t visit Savannah, without sampling one of their famous praline’s (most commonly found in the form of a pie, or a brittle candy.  You must also have some peach cobbler.

When it comes to establishments, my brunch recommendation is Goose Feather's Cafe. The line wraps around Barnard Street, but moves quickly and is well worth the wait. Everything at Goose Feathers is baked fresh on the premises. You’ll find classic sandwiches, French baked goods and Southern favorites. Goose Feather’s boasts itself to be the home of Savannah’s original Whoopie Pie. Mark and I ordered croissant sandwiches, Ohm had a quiche and we all shared a sticky sweet praline bun. It was all, really good. The expresso drinks were piping hot and strong. The ambiance was quirky and bright Goose Feather’s Cafe was a delicious win!

Long story short, Savannah, Georgia is a wonderful city to visit and explore y'all!

Have you been to Savannah?

What is Charleston, South Carolina Like?

Not too long ago, we took a road trip from Brooklyn, New York to Orlando, Florida. It was interesting, especially with a little-one in the back seat. Often entertaining, at times monotonous, we passed many towns and cities along the way as we scuttled down I-95 S. One city that thoroughly stood out as we made our way deeper south was Charleston, South Carolina.  

Charleston is beautiful!

Strolling through downtown Charleston, one truly gets a sense of the old south. Immaculately preserved historic architecture proudly bears witness of Charleston's vibrant (and at times dark) past.

On historic Rainbow Row, you'll glimpse 18th century Georgian townhouses.

On gorgeous Battery Row, you'll find towering waterfront mansions.

The city of Charleston has no shortage of public gardens and green spaces. I loved the seemingly tropical surprise of palm trees set against elegant colonial architecture.

Charleston is elegant!

Downtown Charleston is full of dainty and eclectic boutiques. A city on the water, gracious mansions with ornate lighting fixtures pose before the gentle lapping of the Charleston harbor.

Horse drawn carriages carry tourists around town and along rustic cobblestone streets. Charleston knows how to eat!

You will find no shortage of great food in Charleston. From savory barbecue to fine French dining, Charleston has a rich culinary tradition.

We enjoyed a wonderful dinner at Rue De Jean per my friend Susan's recommendation. Rue De Jean was cozy and intimate. The service was wonderful and our dinner and dessert were spectacular. Despite being a relatively upscale eatery, they were ready for Ohm, presenting him with a high chair and crayons and a gourmet kids menu. They even warmed some milk up for us to go at no extra charge- mamma loves that!

Charleston is a modern city, with a deep and at times dark past.

Charleston is a surprisingly hip and modern city with an old and layered soul.

Modern art boutiques boasting everything from blown glass jewelry to oil paintings depicting the lives of the Gullah people and elaborate polo matches can be found throughout the city.

Locals, stroll the streets with yoga mats slung to their backs, lattes in hand, or on bike. Downtown Charleston is very walkable. As a walkable city, where people spend a lot of time outside, it is also fashionable. This wasn't a sweatpants and sneakers type of place. Charleston loves Vera Bradley. There was a lot of floral- a lot!

Charleston has always fancied itself a fashionable city. It was on the streets of Charleston two centuries ago, where Southern belles donned corsets and parasols and showed off their finest silks and satins. Charleston's past isn't all fashion, mirth and fluff  though.

It was at the ports in Charleston, South Carolina where numerous slave ships docked, bringing human cargo from West Africa to the Southern states. Over 40% of slaves brought to the American colonies, passed through Charleston, South Carolina. Charleston's economic survival as a colony and later as a state was secured on the backs of these slaves, most of whom worked the dangerous rice plantations. The reminders are everywhere, from the sprawling plantations, the prominent Gullah culture, the civil war monuments to the Confederate soldiers who perished in "The War of Northern Aggression," and in the confederate flags that defiantly wave beneath the mild blue sky. Dixie devotion runs strong.

Charleston is an interesting city. Progressive and polite at first glimpse, it is an affluent and historic cookie cutter marvel, yet despite the surface polish, one can't help but notice the distinct difference between the haves and the have-nots. Where in many modern cities, you will find diverse groupings of people from a variety of socio-economic and cultural backgrounds, downtown Charleston was quite homogenous leaving one to wonder how far this city has truly evolved from its early days.

Overall, the city of Charleston has a lot of strengths. What is Charleston, South Carolina like? It's a living window into America's past.

Charleston is a great city to visit if you're a history buff, a shopper, a foodie or in search of a  quick weekend getaway or place to pull off the road during your next road trip!

What are your impressions of Charleston?

Road Trip South from New York to Florida

Contrary to popular belief Americans do travel. Though not overwhelmingly visible overseas, there exists a national preoccupation the good ole' American Road Trip. Chances are, if you're an American, you've experienced this phenomena in some form or fashion, whether it's a drive from Ohio to Indiana to visit grandma,  a weekend trip from California to Las Vegas, or a true blue cross-country drive from Washington State to Maine.

My first road trips manifested themselves as treks from Rochester, New York to Southern Maryland to visit my grandparents. My first major road trip came in college, when a group of friends and I drove from Niagara Falls, New York where we went to school, to Opelika, Alabama to participate in a protest. That was an invigorating ride. A bunch of college kids crammed in a van, swapping stories, snacks, singing songs, taking pictures. I was fascinated by the culinary differences as we forged further south, food became heartier, more savory, and came in enormous portions usually drenched in sauce. One of my favorite road trips was a simple drive up the California coast in 2002, when a friend and I took the long way from San Francisco to Los Angeles. As an east coast girl, I was romanced by the landscape. The colors were so vibrant, the contrast between the ocean and the hills took my breath away. I remember falling in love with the exotic breezy Californian coast.  One of the beautiful things about the vast land mass that is America, is that you don't have to leave the county to experience different climates, geographic phenomena, cultures, food, sights and sounds. The deserts of New Mexico after all, can be a life altering exotic experience to a person from, say, Harrisburg, PA.

For the holidays, my husband and I found ourselves hitting the open road on a sojourn southwards, one that took us from Brooklyn, New York to Orlando, Florida. It was a beautiful ride. I was able to knit two scarves. I was able to throw my head back while waving my bare feet out of the window beneath the warm southern sun. I sang (much to the annoyance of everyone else in the car) at the top of my lungs to every playlist on my i-phone. There were many wonderful stops along the way, including Christmas with family at our home in Brandywine, Maryland, an idyllic afternoon in Savannah, Georgia,  a sophisticated evening in Charleston, South Carolina, and ringing in New Years with Mark's family in Orlando, Florida.

In many ways, this post could be called "A Tale of Two Americas." That small mid-Atlantic stretch along the I-95, illustrated the cultural and regional diversity that makes America so fascinating and complex. Neighbors by proximity, the cultural, linguistic, and geographic distinctions that divide the borders between the north and the south can create the feeling at times that one is exploring a foreign and exotic new world. On the southern side, life moved slower, the sun warmed the winds as if it were spring, anything it seemed was game to be killed and barbecued,  moss draped elegantly from low languid trees,  regional pralines were a prized delicacy and everything seemed to be followed with a sweet drippy "y'all."

Our journey took 72 hours each way as we took our time exploring  the sites and cities that sparked our imagination. We were also totting a 16 month-old backseat driver who was just as curious as we were about our Southern neighbors and their usually refreshing brand of hospitality.

If you find yourself traveling south along I-95, you may want to check out:

George Washington's birthplace in Westmoreland County, Virginia

Richmond, Virginia (check out Monument Avenue)

Charleston, South Carolina (enjoy a lovely meal by the water, or check out the fancy shops and boutiques near the University of Charleston)

Tuskegee Airman Monument in Walterboro, South Carolina

Koger Plantation in Dorchester County, South Carolina

Frampton Plantation House in South Carolina

The Kingdom of Oyotunji: An African Kingdom in South Carolina

Savannah, Georgia (head downtown to Historic Savannah, and check out the restaurants and shops along the water)

Daytona Beach, Florida (DOLPHINS! Romantic sunset)

For tips on how to plan your next road trip, visit www.roadtripamerica.com.

Happy Trails!

Happy Holidays from a city mouse and a country mouse!

Since I am both a city mouse and a country mouse, I would like to take a moment to wish you a merry Christmas from New York:

and

Brandywine:

Happy Holidays!

Seattle's Original Pyramid Ale House- An Inside Look

Introducing my awesome cousin-in-law Master Chef Marcos Villagran!

Okay, maybe that's not a real title, the cousin-in-law part that is. Either way, Marcos is the brilliant head Chef at Seattle's original Pyramid Brewery.

Pyramid Breweries Seattle Alehouse is the original Pyramid Brewery site. Doubling as a brewery and restaurant/alehouse, the restaurant is popular amongst locals looking for a specialty brew, savory bar food and a place to watch the game.

There's also a beer garden.

This is where the magic happens. Pyramid produces award-winning beer. They've been winning awards consistently since 1985 for their quality brews. The Pacific Northwest has a distinct brew culture and at Pyramid, there is a lot of brewer's pride.  It was clear that Pyramid wasn't your standard chain sports bar establishment that shoveled forth mediocre burgers and Budweiser. Here you can find a complex bar menu, one that relies on their prized brew to enhance the flavor of the food. Pyramid is a place for the beer connoisseur, a place where food is expertly paired with complimentary beers.

Located directly across from Safeco Field, home of the Seattle Mariners, and just a block south of Qwest Field, Pyramid is the place to hang out for a pre or post game meal, or if you're not lucky enough to score tickets, serves as the perfect vantage point from which to join in the frenzied action at the bar.

Ohm wasn't very excited about the beer, he's more of a milk guy. Brielle, on the other hand, was thrilled.

After our tour, we got to sit down and have lunch with the chef! The food was awesome. My turkey burger was tender and the fries were really yummy. No complaints from this gal! As I'm not really a beer drinker, I didn't order one of my own, but Mark and Marcos were very happy with their selections. Back to the food, there are vegan and gluten-free options (love it! just saying).

After lunch, it was back to work for the chef!

Brielle, Mark, and I, waddled off our meal with some downtown Seattle sightseeing.

Pyramid Alehouse, Brewery & Restaurant 1201 First Avenue South Seattle, WA 98134

(206) 682-3377

Explore Seattle's Funky Neighborhoods

No trip to the Seattle region is complete without exploring the beautiful neighborhoods surrounding the city.

Washington state is breathtaking.

Luckily my cousin Brielle and my friend Elisha were amazing tour guides who not only showed me the heart of Seattle, but the beauty of the surrounding areas as well.

Ohm and Brielle before our Vegan brunch

Loved these meditation cards. Each card had a quote about peace or inner-reflection. Excellent talking points. Sometimes it's the little things.

Silence-Heart-Nest, not only served up amazing Vegan and Vegetarian food, they were ready for my toddler. Not only did he get a high-chair and sippy cup, but they came out with toys for him to play with- right on! He was happy and I was able to chitty-chat with Brielle.

Catching up with Elisha in Ballard

The Carl S. English Jr. Botanical Garden - really beautiful

The Hiram M. Chittenden Locks in Ballard- Fish conservation project

The Troll under the bridge in Fremont

Neighborhoods Visited: Fremont (North of downtown)  and Ballard (North West of downtown) Washington

I loved Freemont's bohemian, quirky personality. Freemont is a wonderful place to go shopping. It's lined with boutiques that surprisingly (at least compared to NY) were not too expensive. Freemont is also a great place to grab Vegetarian food or to relax and people watch at a cafe.

Ballard was absolutely picturesque. Right on the water, the views, the sunset, were all truly astonishing. Ballard was super family friendly.

The Seattle, Washington region is lovely and worthy of exploring. This is a wonderful city for a family vacation.

When Traveler's Hair Happens to Good People, Fekkai's Essential Shea comes to the Rescue!

Forget about hat hair, I would like to talk about a much greater menace, I want to talk for a moment about traveler's hair. Traveler's hair is the term I've assigned that mysterious condition which occurs after you've been in the air for hours, find yourself in a new city with a new and unpredictable climate and your hair decides to rebel becoming a twisted, dry, static-filled, unrecognizable mess.

It starts slowly. It may begin with an itchy scalp but before you know it, your hair feels like a bird's nest and looks like a family of sewer rats have been feasting at the ends.

Now here you are, in your new city, perhaps hundreds, maybe thousands of miles away from home. You want to explore, mingle with and blend in with the locals, you want to make a great impression, be a positive ambassador for your state or your country. Instead you look ragged, you feel travel weary and run-down. You wrestle your defiant hair into a ponytail, or bun, perhaps you even sport a baseball cap or a bandanna, hope that nobody notices your hair misfortune and attempt to forge forth.

There are several factors that can lead to traveler's hair

• Dehydration and drying due to long stretches on an airplane
• The introduction of a new dry climate, either cold or hot
• Changing altitude

Frederic Fekkai to the rescue!

One great product line that tames, even the worst cases of travel hair is Frederic Fekkai's Essential Shea Collection.

First, it contains shea butter and shea butter is pure magic. I've developed a whole new respect for shea since my travels to Ghana. It is hands down, the most nutritive and effective moisturizer out there. I use it in my handmade lotions and I look for it as a main ingredient in other products, which is one of the reasons this line is so great.

The Essential Shea Collection works because it restores balance and moisture to dry travel weary and stressed out tresses. The Shea butter penetrates your hair from root to tip, sealing moisture within your hair shaft. Ta da! Revitalized thirst quenched locks that are ready to explore the world.

I have naturally thick curly kinky hair which is super sensitive to dry arid climates, long plane rides and high altitude. Essential Shea is my secret weapon.

The Essential Shea collection features a shampoo, a conditioner, a hair mask and a pot de creme styling product. If I'm short on luggage space, I stick to the conditioner and the pot de creme which allows me to condition and style.

Did I mention they smell great too?

Put your best foot forward when you travel, squeeze in a tube of lipstick, a memorable piece of jewelry, always bring a signature outfit, a cute pair of shoes, and don't forget the Essential Shea!

If you're interested in giving Essential Shea a try, you're one lucky traveler, because it's on sale!

Here’s the deal:

10% off your total order and a complimentary exclusive holiday headband with $50 purchase (while supplies last)  Promo Code: HEADBAND

Here’s the link:

http://www.fekkai.com?cm_mmc=Blogger-_-Site-_-Site+Placement-_-0868

Yes, this was a review post, but all opinions stated are my honest to goodness true thoughts.

What to see and do at Pike Place Market

I must have visited the Pike Place Market every day that I was in Seattle.

Besides being a lover of all things by the water, and all things locally owned and of farmer's markets and flea markets, I fell in love with Pike Place's quirky and eclectic finds.

Here's what my Pike Place adventures looked like.

The Pike Place Market is a great place to go to grab a good meal, do some window shopping, or simply hang out and gaze at the water. The Market is super kid friendly and is an inexpensive (contingent upon what you buy) way to spend a great afternoon in Seattle.

Have you been? What were your impressions?

Impromptu Wine Tasting in Seattle

I really don't do a whole lot of planning when I take a trip. Barring securing a hotel, I did no planning whatsoever for Seattle.

How did I set out to see the city?

Well, I grabbed all of the brochures in the hotel lobby, I questioned the hotel front desk workers with the intensity of a defense attorney, and I allowed my cousin Brielle and my friend Elisha (both enthusiastic residents) to show me their beloved city.

Usually the best things are not planned. Such was the case when Brielle, Mark, Ohm and I found ourselves engaging in an exquisite and intimate impromptu wine, cheese, and fruit tasting.

The Scene:

Down the street from the Seattle Space Needle

If you look really closely, you'll spot Brielle, Ohm and I posing in a random parking lot.

The Place:

THE CHEESE CELLAR

www.thecheesecellar.com

100 4th Avenue North, Suite 150 Seattle, WA 98109 Phone (206) 404 2743

Unobtrusively tucked inside a small plaza, we just happened to glance at the window and like children in a candy store spotted floor to ceiling walls of wine.

The Cheese Cellar was calling our name. The staff was super friendly. We got a quick briefing on the local wines. We were educated about the merits of sheep's milk and cheeses.

The shop was empty and very baby friendly. Brielle entertained Ohm, as Mark and I drooled over the wine.

Intending to only get a glass each, we found ourselves seated at the large communal table in the center of the shop, a platter of locally crafted goodies before us.

What was on our plate?

Pure goodness!

We were given a selection of artisanal cheeses, local cured meats, and savory olives.

Brielle drank a Chardonnay,  Mark drank a Cabernet, Ohm had almond milk and I had Merlot. Wine in hand, we slurped, cackled and laughed while delighting in the gifts on our platter. There was plenty to go around.

To my surprise, I learned my one year old is a fan of olives and goat cheese.

It was all so very good.

The Cheese Cellar was a wonderful find.

How to Make Spicy Chai

I don't usually post recipes, but I am in love with this one that I picked up on the road. Well, I picked part of it up on the road, the rest I improvised based on Ayurveda. Either way, it's a keeper. I see the birth of a new segment "Recipes from the Road." I learned to make the basic chai blend at Seattle's Market Spice www.marketspice.com (more on that later- best shop EVER!)

Note: You can use any tea in this recipe. I use Rooibos because it's an incredibly nutritious tea (anti-oxidants galore) and is caffeine free. Traditionally a black tea is used.

Spicy Chai to Enliven a Dreary Seattle Afternoon:

What You'll Need:

You'll need a mortar and pestle and a french press or the equivalent (coffee grinder, loose tea bags, etc.)

Ingredients:

2 Cups boiled water

2 heaping teaspoons of rooibos tea

2 teaspoons of green cardamom pods

1 teaspoon of cinnamon flakes

1 teaspoon of whole cloves

1/2 teaspoon of whole peppercorns

1/8 teaspoon ground turmeric

Steps:

Bring your water to a boil

Place the loose rooibos tea, the cinnamon flakes and the turmeric in the bottom of your french press or loose tea bag

In the mortar, grind your pepper just until it begins to crack open revealing the white interior

Add the pepper to your french press or tea bag

In the mortar, grind your clove

Add the clove to your french press or tea bag

Peel open your cardamom pods to release the seeds

Pile your cardamom seeds into the mortar and mash to release the aroma and flavor

Add the cardamom to the french press or tea bag. Pour the boiling water into the french press or steep your tea bag for five minutes.

Pour and enjoy!

And since there is no caffeine, guess who loves it too...

* This recipe produced a 120z batch of chai, two teacups worth!

What is your favorite recipe from the road?

Walking Seattle

 

Seattle, it turns out, is a very pedestrian friendly city. Seattle, it also turns out, with its many hills and steep inclines, is a city that resembles a level ten treadmill course. With Ohm, strapped to me in his Ergo carrier like a twenty pound weight, my time walking the streets of Seattle felt a lot like boot camp.

Unlike boot camp, I had the pleasure of sipping lattes and taking my time as I strolled the piers, jaunted up and down the fancy downtown, and rambled around the outer districts.

Seattle is a cool city. Holding the best of both worlds, it is distinctly gritty and urban, and stunningly beautiful. A place for hip singles and young families, Seattle has a culture of its own, and despite being super friendly, it possesses a definite edge.

Seattle I've decided is a lot like a cup of Starbucks Breakfast Blend coffee, deeply satisfying, ultra stimulating, with surprising notes of bitterness undercut by aromatic tones.

Visiting the Anchorage Coastal Wildlife Refuge

At last I spotted my moose. Of course I had to visit the Anchorage Coastal Wildlife Refuge to see one. Here the moose have acres to roam. It's a step up from a zoo.

I felt guilty looking at the reindeer. I had just eaten one for breakfast. I am now working on my karma.

Brawl at the watering hole

Come on, break it up you two!

After all of the "Warning Bears" signs that I came across, I did not see one bear until I visited the Coastal Wildlife Refuge.

This guy stood on cue

Okay, have you seen anything cuter than this? These little guys were orphaned and are being rehabilitated.

This guy spotted me from about forty feet away and began to charge. I think he thought I was competition. First he stared me down, then he let out a loud guttural groan, and then he charged at me.

And the wildest creature of them all, my little Ohm. He had a great time looking at all of the animals.