Wine and Food Overload

The obvious promotion of celebrity chefs, TV shows and food conglomerates has reached international proportions with festivals from Aspen to Barbados.  Tickets cost upwards of hundreds of dollars, and that doesn’t include plane fare or hotel.  Supposedly a portion goes to charity, but that’s questionable.  Even smaller festivals, which focus on local ingredients and promote…

A Fall Weekend In Portland

Portland may be known for its quirky ways, a focus on local food, food trucks, craft breweries, city wineries and inventive cocktails, but there’s more to do than eat and drink in this eco-conscious, dog and bike-friendly city.  In a recent weekend visit to see a college friend, I didn’t even attempt to scratch the…

Pig Butchery 101

Butchering lessons have been all the rage.  Selling out in minutes, the high demand means prices aren’t cheap.  Unfortunately, most classes in my area have been in Brooklyn and don’t usually coincide with my work schedule.  And if I’m spending all that money, I should be taking home the meat, instead of leaving it for…

Oktoberfest, Of Course!

Despite its name, this holiday — turned universal excuse to drown one’s self in giant glasses of golden beer — is actually celebrated in September.  That’s why I’ve chosen it for this month’s travel post. The fest begins when the mayor of Munich (aka the bürgermeister) taps the first keg at noon, which takes place this…

Off The Beaten Path In Bruges

It’s easy to see why Bruges (or Brugge) is known as the Venice of the North. You can leisurely stroll along the pathways near the canals and take in the picturesque houses. But the feel of this Belgian city is very different from Venezia and can easily be enjoyed in a weekend. Start your morning…