Long Weekend in Cincinnati http://ift.tt/22TQNfH

Easily accessible from most East Coast cities, Cincinnati is stepping up its game and becoming a destination for those in the know. Those that haven’t been in recent years might have a misconception of the Queen City, but just like many other second- and third-tier cities around the country, they are quickly catching up. Neighborhoods are diversifying, bringing more and more locals to the actual city center, which is in turn bringing more restaurants, shops, and culture to areas that might have been lacking, but were just waiting for a little TLC. Cincinnati might surprise you, so a weekend away could be all it takes to convince you of how great the city truly is.

Friday

If arriving by air, the Cincinnati airport is just a quick cab ride to downtown, where there are plenty of hotel options for every budget. The Contemporary Art Center is a great place to start sightseeing, and admission is now free to this really interesting art-filled space filled with art. Next door at the 21C Hotel, there’s also a free gallery to enjoy with an obscure private collection that is helping redefine the art scene in the city. Also at the 21C is a great rooftop bar, perfect for pre-dinner drinks as well as an urban riverfront sunset experience.

For dinner, across the street from the 21C is Sotto, an underground trattoria that serves simple, yet refined Italian food. After dinner, head over to Japp’s for classic, organic cocktails. If you still have it in you after a few cocktails at Japp’s, stay for the late-night dancing that takes place in the space next door.  

Saturday

Take a short walk from downtown to the Over-the-Rhine neighborhood, Cincinnati’s hippest new area, which has undergone a major revitalization thanks to the efforts of its residents, who pride themselves in living in a mixed-community environment. While there, treat yourself to coffee and doughnuts at Holtman’s, or check out 1215 Coffee and Wine Bar for a morning pick-me-up. Afterward, enjoy the shops along Vine Street, which are a great mix of boutiques offering a little bit of everything. When it comes time for lunch, Bakersfield serves awesome fresh tacos.

In the afternoon, learn about Cincinnati’s rich brewing history with two options for brewery tours. The first is a walking tour with American Legacy Tours that includes exploring recently excavated underground brewery tunnels; the second is hopping on the Cincy Brew Bus for a tasting tour of local breweries like Rhinegeist, Taft's Ale House and Christian Moerlein.

For dinner, stay in the Over-the-Rhine area and check out Senate for some hearty food. The real deal there is their hot dogs, which are considered by many to be some of the best in the country. With some pretty gourmet combinations, these aren’t your average dogs. After dinner, take in the city’s music scene at MOTR Pub or the Woodward Theatre, which happen to be across the street from each other. Or, depending on the season, take in a symphony, ballet, or opera performance.

Sunday

After an eventful couple of days, take Sunday to enjoy fresh produce and local crafts at Findlay Market and have breakfast at the Taste of Belgium outpost for some authentic waffles. In summer, enjoy the market’s beer garden and live music. At times there may also be live music, yoga, or other activities across the street in Washington Park, directly in front of Music Hall.

Where to Stay

The 21C Museum Hotel, a luxury downtown hotel, conveniently located next to the Contemporary Arts Center and across the street from the Arnoff Center for the Arts, has something new to offer guests and the city, with 156 rooms situated within a contemporary art museum that is free and open to the public.

David Duran is a Brooklyn-based luxury, hospitality, culinary and overall freelance travel writer who contributes to such publications as Travel + Leisure, The Huffington Post, Destination Weddings & Honeymoons, and Islands among others.  When not traveling for work, he is planning his personal travel.

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Europe's Top 15 Food & Wine Destinations http://ift.tt/eA8V8J

You can find incredible food anywhere in the world, but there’s no denying that Europe is home to an extremely high concentration of amazing cuisines. Truffles, Champagne, pasta, prosciutto—all these and more delicious treats can be found on the Continent. Whether you’re looking for top-rated restaurants, authentic cafés, or award-winning wineries, our favorite European food and wine destinations are guaranteed to satisfy your appetite.

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Europe's Top 10 Shopping Destinations http://ift.tt/eA8V8J

Fodor's travelers' favorite European destinations for shopping range from big cities like Paris and Rome to countryside regions like Provence and Germany's Rhineland. Whether you're looking for famous food markets, high-fashion clothing boutiques, or classic antique shops, Europe's best shopping destinations have something for browsers and shopaholics alike—from a perfect souvenir to a major purchase to remember your trip forever.

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A Perfect 5-Day Mountain Road Trip in North Carolina http://ift.tt/22QFiWc

Day 1: Asheville

Arrive in Asheville and check into the Windsor Asheville, an all-suite boutique property, with kitchens, living rooms, and a private bedroom, located in the heart of downtown.

Breakfast Suggestions

• Biscuit Head – If you're a fan of biscuits, this might just be your nirvana, with options from savory to sweet.
• King Daddy’s Chicken and Waffles – Asheville’s go-to for southern cooking. The classic fried chicken and waffles aren’t for health fanatics, but don’t fret, they have grilled chicken and gluten-free waffles too.
• The Corner Kitchen – Located in one of the historic Biltmore Village homes, Corner Kitchen is a favorite among locals and visitors. The corned beef hash and creamy grits are a signature breakfast item.

Lunch/Dinner Suggestions

• Buxton Hall – James Beard Award–winning chefs Meherwan Irani and Elliott Moss have opened up their new place, which honors the mountain tradition of pit-cooked, whole-hog, slow-cooked BBQ, and it’s everything you will have hoped for.
• Rhubarb – The James Beard Foundation named chef John Fleer one of the “Rising Stars of the 21st Century," and his passion for Appalachian food traditions is reflected in his menus and his revival of the Sunday night supper, a family-style meal experience.

After-Dinner Cocktail Suggestions

• Sovereign Remedies – Charlie Hodge, who creates beverage programs for restaurants across the country, has partnered with Asheville Mushroom Man Alan Muskat to create cocktails with foraged ingredients.
• Top of the Monk – Top of the Monk has been named one of the best pre-Prohibition era craft cocktail bars in the country. Once you order your drink, make sure to get a key to receive a special bar bite in an old post office box!

Activity Suggestions

• Asheville Bee Charmer – The two locations of Asheville Bee Charmer showcase local and regional bee-themed skin-care products, housewares and gifts, sweet treats, and, of course, honey.
• Battery Park Book Exchange – An eclectic vintage bookstore that serves champagne – you can’t really go wrong here.
• Ben’s Penny Mart – Grab an incredible deli sandwich or hot dog from local vendor Foothills Meats at the Ben’s Penny Mart bodega. While in the area, hit up some of the breweries, including Burial Brewing, Catawba Brewing, Green Man, Hi-Wire, Twin Leaf and the Funkatorium (Wicked Weed’s sour beer headquarters). Or try a bottle of Ben’s house-made sake back at the Penny Mart.
• Biltmore – It’s hard pass up a trip to the Biltmore estate—the largest private home in America—but there’s more than just the house tour. There’s also a winery tour and tasting and two hotels on property.
• Buchi Bar – With an array of options to drink such as local soda, kombucha (probiotic, fermented tea), herbal teas, and cocktails. It’s part healthy, but mostly fun to hang with the scene that dominates here.
• French Broad Chocolate Lounge – With more than 150 varieties of chocolate to choose from, this hip lounge has comfy places to sit and relax while indulging.
• Herbiary – New downtown shop with organic and pesticide-free herbs and teas, phthalate-free skin care, and great gift ideas.

Day 2: Waynesville

Depart for Waynesville, a 40-minute drive, and when you arrive in Waynesville check into The Swag, perched 5,000 feet above the cares of the world. This bed-and-breakfast offers breathtaking views from the mountaintops complemented by luxurious accommodations, award-winning service and cuisine, and a private entrance to the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. (Note: The Swag is located in a dry county. While you cannot purchase alcoholic beverages on site, you can bring your own beverages of choice.)

Breakfast Suggestions

• Joey’s Pancake House – Even people who never order pancakes anywhere else swear by the ones served here, so they are worth a visit.
• The Swag - Breakfast specialties include cider-simmered oatmeal, omelets made to order, breakfast breads, bacon, country sausage, and fresh juice.

Lunch Suggestions

• Bourbon Barrel – A wonderful selection of all-natural steaks from local farms as well as microbrews and ales from local brewers.
• Sweet Onion – Regional cuisine offering everything from southern fried chicken to pastas to fresh mountain trout.
• Frankie’s Italian Trattoria – All sauces here are made fresh in house. Local favorites include eggplant sicilia, homemade lasagna, and hand-tossed signature pizzas.
• Haywood Smokehouse – True mountain barbecue, smoked fresh every day—just don’t get there late because once it’s gone, it’s gone!
• The Imperial – Built in the late 1800s, the building is a historic treasure that creates a unique dining experience that’s family- and pet-friendly with indoor and outdoor seating.

Dinner Suggestions

• The Chef’s Table – Fresh, seasonal, local foods and produce paired with wines from around the world.
• The Swag – The dinner bell rings at 7:00; enjoy a four-course meal in the candlelit dining room and get to know the other lucky guests staying there.

Activity Suggestions

• Cataloochee Ranch – This nearby guest ranch has trails for horseback riding or mountain hiking.
• Boojum Brewing – The newest of Haywood County’s four craft microbreweries has its tasting room/restaurant next door to the Waynesville Visitor Center.
• Wheels Through Time – Even if you don’t love motorcycles, this museum is pretty incredible. Home to the world’s premier collection of rare American vintage motorcycles, the museum more than 300 rarities and classics from Harley-Davidson, Indian, Excelsior, Crocker, Henderson, Flying Merkel and more.

Day 3: Waynesville

A big driving day, so pick up food and snacks to take along with you, or just stop along the route at anywhere that looks good. Don’t spend too much time worrying about food today, as you will be driving and taking in the majestic scenery instead.

Activity Suggestions

• Blue Ridge Parkway Loop – Enjoy the morning exploring “America’s Favorite Drive.” Haywood County’s 46 miles of the 469-mile parkway is the highest elevated section, so get your camera ready for some epic pics.
• Hop onto the Blue Ridge Parkway via U.S. 19, just outside Maggie Valley, which will start you at Mile Marker 455. As you head north toward Asheville (note that marker numbers decrease), make a point to stop at Waterrock Knob (MM 451.2) for 365-degree views and Richland Balsam (MM 431.4), the highest peak on the parkway at 6,411 feet. You can hop off the parkway at three places: Mile Marker 443.1: Balsam Gap—US 74-23 Crossover; Mile Marker 423.3: Beech Gap. NC 215 Crossover; Mile Marker 412.2: Wagon Road Gap. US 276 Crossover. (If you choose explore all 46 miles, which will take you several hours with stops, here are few other points of interest: MM 417: Looking Glass Rock; MM 418.8: Graveyard Fields Overlook; and MM 422.4: Devil’s Courthouse Parking Area.)
• Cataloochee Valley – One of the most remote areas of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, the valley provides a look back in time to one of the area’s original pioneer settlements. The winding trails also lead to hikes as well as to views of the elk, which are most commonly seen at dusk, and have flourished, with more than 100 now living in and around the valley.

Day 4: Highlands

Depart for Highlands (about 90 minutes away) and check into the Old Edwards Inn & Spa, a European-style retreat. The main inn takes over four city blocks and includes the spa, their signature restaurant, shops, cottages, and even a heated outdoor mineral pool.

Lunch Suggestions

• Bistro on Main – Salads, sandwiches, and entrees at the Main Street Inn's restaurant.
• Wild Thyme Gourmet – American cuisine with an Asian influence.
• Wine Garden – Al fresco dining with a menu of salads, sandwiches, and entrees, as well as an assortment of local craft beer.

Dinner Suggestions

• Madison’s – The Old Edwards’s signature restaurant, spearheaded by chef Johannes Klapdohr, is the classiest place in town and with good reason. Let the staff guide you through the extensive menu.

Activity Suggestions

• Highlands Botanical Garden and Nature Center – Part of the Highlands Biological Station research facility, the center features some of the area's natural wonders.
• Hike to Sunset Rock – Leave the car at the nature center and walk over to what leads to a natural amphitheater along the cliffside.
• Old Edwards Spa – Its spa, one of the best in the region, has earned many accolades.
• Satulah Mountain Brewing Co. – Beyond the local brew, Satulah boasts the largest local draft beer selection in town.
• The Ugly Dog Pub – This classic tavern will make you feel right at home.
• Waterfall drive – See Bridal Veil Falls on US 64/28, which cascades 120 feet over the highway. Dry Falls, also on US 64/28 W, is a 75-foot waterfall that visitors can walk behind. Glen Falls, on NC 106 S, is a series of three large falls, dropping about 60 feet each.

Day 5: Asheville

Before departing for Asheville, a 90-minute drive, explore more of the Highlands area, including neighboring Cashiers or Brevard—another charmer of a mountain town with one of the coolest toy stores, O.P. Taylor’s. Along the way, make a pit stop at the Sierra Nevada Brewery for lunch and a tasting. Return to Asheville and make your way back home, but not before taking one last fresh breath of that clean mountain air.

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7 Reasons to Visit Durham, North Carolina http://ift.tt/1PEKaAW

Durham, located at the apex of North Carolina's famed "Research Triangle," has recently undergone a transformation. What once was a neglected town is now on its way to becoming one of the state’s most attractive urban landscapes. Yes, it is a college town, and yes, sports do dominate here—really, they dominate the entire state—but Durham is adapting to popular culture by welcoming funky hotels, hip lounges serving craft cocktails, and small boutiques that are quickly filling up the once-abandoned streets. But just because the city might be upping its coolness factor, it’s still holding on tight to its Southern charm, hospitality, and history. So next time you’re in town supporting either Duke or UNC, or are oddly enough not there for basketball, take some time to visit these seven must-see spots in Durham.

21c Hotel

Right in the heart of downtown Durham, occupying the historic Hill Building, the 21c Museum Hotel is one of only five 21c’s in the country. The 125-room boutique hotel doubles as a contemporary art museum and is home to Counting House restaurant, spearheaded by chef Josh Munchel, who offers a global take on regional dishes with a menu that showcases North Carolina’s seafood heritage. The museum portion of the hotel is open to the public; make sure to head all the way down to the lower level and enjoy the old bank vault, which has been converted into a mini lounge.

American Tobacco Historic District

This live/work/play district known as the American Tobacco Historic Campus was developed from the historic one million square-foot American Tobacco Manufacturing plant. Creatively repurposed, the tobacco warehouses which were once the backbone of Durham’s economy, are now used to house the Durham Performing Arts Center, Durham Bulls Athletic Park, a radio station, culinary school, documentary theater, shops, restaurants and bars, and even has a man-made river. The transformation of this area is indicative of the transformation of Durham itself.

Duke Lemur Center

Best known for being featured on the popular PBS series “Zoboomafoo,” the Duke Lemur Center is an 85-acre sanctuary for rare and endangered prosimian primates. Housing the world’s larges collection of lemurs outside of Madagascar, the center advances science, scholarship, and biological conservation through interdisciplinary research and public outreach, which includes community-based conservation. Plus, it’s hard to resist the cuteness of a lemur, so imagine being surrounded by cuteness in the world’s largest sanctuary for prosimian primates.

Duke University

This one is a given. The grounds of the university alone are worth the visit due to its gothic-inspired architecture. Head over the university’s West Campus to explore Duke Gardens, which has been recognized as being one of the premier public gardens in the United States, and Duke Chapel, for the perfect example of gothic-inspired architecture. In addition, the Nasher Museum of Art is located on the west campus and it has an upscale café, perfect for a bite between viewing their art exhibitions.

Durham Distillery

You don’t often find distilleries focused on gin anymore, especially in these times of bourbon, but the Durham Distillery, a gin and liqueur distillery in downtown Durham is bringing gin back. The distillery combines the respected and time-honored gin-making traditions but combines them with techniques borrowed from modern chemistry. By doing so, the end result brings spirits that are both classic and contemporary. Tours run all day long and can be booked in advance online.

Fullsteam Brewery

Keeping with the tippling trend, after a visit to the gin distillery, head over to Fullsteam Brewery, devoted to a “plow-to-pint” philosophy by using local produce to make beer. Some of their beer includes North Carolina ingredients like sweet potatoes, figs, and basil. The brewery has a bar, which is popular with locals, but their beers can be found up and down the eastern seaboard.

Museum of Life + Sciences

Located just blocks from downtown Durham, the Museum of Life + Sciences is one of North Carolina’s top family destinations. Their interactive science park includes a two-story science center and gorgeous outdoor exhibits that are safe havens for rescued black bears, lemurs, and endangered red wolves. This is most definitely a day trip, as the beautifully landscaped grounds are worth exploring. In addition, the museum is home to one of the largest butterfly conservatories on the East Coast.

The Durham

This midcentury modern hotel is also in the heart of downtown, just a block from the 21c Museum Hotel. The design is colorful and chic and the hotel prides itself on providing locally inspired amenities. But the draw here is the food and drink offerings throughout the hotel and at the unnamed signature restaurant that come from James Beard award–winning chef Andrea Reusing. Upstairs, enjoy panoramic views of downtown Durham from the city’s first rooftop bar, which is a hot spot every night of the week.

David Duran is a Brooklyn-based luxury, hospitality, culinary and travel writer who contributes to such publications as Travel + Leisure, The Huffington Post, Destination Weddings & Honeymoons, and Islands among others. When not traveling for work, he is planning his personal travel.

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17 National Parks That Are Perfect for Spring Trips http://ift.tt/eA8V8J

Once spring has sprung, it’s time to get out and enjoy the great outdoors. And what better way to experience nature than in some of our magnificent national parks? We’ve handpicked the 10 best national parks for springtime revelry, from Tennessee to Alaska to California. Now it’s your turn to start planning a trip.

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Long Weekend in New Paltz, New York http://ift.tt/1PEKcsr

A thriving hamlet for artists, writers, and musicians with a college-town vibe, New Paltz is an easy jaunt from New York City, ideal come springtime with its multitude of outdoor adventures. Whether it's climbing mountains or taking in the fresh spring flora from the comfort of a rocking chair, New Paltz is the ideal weekend getaway for city-dwellers looking for a rustic town with a silver lining of culture and sophistication.

Friday

The weekend starts with your arrival at the Minnewaska Lodge, a local chalet that specializes in outdoor escapes. Built in 2001, Minnewaska Lodge brings a contemporary flair to the mountain retreat, exuding the energy of a new property. A quick 10-minute drive south of New Paltz in Gardiner, New York, the 26 guest rooms of the lodge are uniquely designed with wooden accents and prints from local photographers adorning the walls. Drop your bags and take a moment to unwind outside on one of the property’s many Adirondack chairs.

For the best first acquaintance with New Paltz, start with the charming Water Street Market, at the base of downtown New Paltz, right off the Wallkill River. Nearly two dozen vendors have set up shop along the outdoor path, ranging from local artists to farmers. Start the walk with a sweet in hand from Dohnut, the devilishly tasty pastry post where rotating specials include Sriracha, chai, and Nutella doughnuts. The indulgence continues at Jar’d Wine Pub, a tiny hotspot where locals seek out fine wine and inventive small plates, perfect for an end-of-the-week toast. Opt for the charcuterie plate of local meats and cheeses, along with the Yard Owl brew on tap, one of the Hudson Valley’s most prized small-batch breweries. There are some excellent small shops along the way, namely the unique finds at Maglyn's Dream, a boutique featuring local art, jewelry, and home goods. And for those looking for a piece of Hudson Valley history, stop in to the Antiques Barn mall where dealers feature jewelry, furniture, and racks of vintage clothing.

Once you’ve made your way through the market, head across the street for a low-key night at The Gilded Otter (average main: $15). The extensive menu at this gastropub with microbrew casks proudly on display in the dining room is best for its hearty options including the three-meat chili, meatloaf, and Cuban sandwich. As for the house-made beer on tap, the year-round Katzenjammer Kolsch is among the top pours.

Upon returning to Minnewaska Lodge, join the gathering outside as the lodge’s Adirondack chairs form a perimeter around two nearby gas fire pits. Guests gather to mingle, swap travel stories, and share favorite hiking routes under the starlit sky.

Saturday

Plan ahead (reservations are required) to spend the better part of your day Saturday at the pristine Mohonk Mountain House, a national historic landmark set at the southern border of the Catskill Mountains on the secluded Lake Mohonk. Opt for their best value day rate at $78, which includes a gourmet lunch buffet, access to the resort’s main house and museum, and a well-plotted 85-mile network of mountain trails. The perfect day at Mohonk starts with a hike to Sky Top, the peak of the Mohonk preserve. Climb the 100 steps to the top of a man-made stone tower built in 1921 for unbeatable views of the Shawangunk Mountains. Loop back down the mountainside, passing some of the 125 signature wooden “summer houses,” or lookout huts, that dot the property, offering a cozy spot to relax, catch your breath, and take in the view. While the rest of the morning away on the sweeping porch that borders the lake with a row of rocking chairs for a peaceful rest before lunch. The dining room demands a large appetite with a blend of exotic dishes including Peruvian chicken and lamb kabobs, and more standard resort fare—think carving stations and a classic salad bar. After lunch, work off the calories aboard one of the rowboats available for an additional $13 per half hour at Mohonk Lake. Round out the day with Mohonk’s classic tea and cookie service at 4 pm just off the main porch before heading to the back of the house for the nightly Spirits on the Sunset cocktail hour, where simple cocktails are served al fresco.

As the sun sets, head back into New Paltz for dinner at A Tavola Trattoria (average main: $28), where Chef Louis Escoto has a host of flavorful tricks up his sleeve. A renowned eatery that arrived on the Hudson Valley scene in 2011, owner-chefs Nathan and Bonnie Snow set their sights on mountain life, decamping from their posts at Manhattan’s Sfoglia. Standouts of A Tavola Trattoria’s regional Italian fare include a grilled octopus starter, fresh basil ricotta gnocchi with Italian sausage, and pan-seared local duck breast with roasted local plums. The extensive Italian wine list represents a wide swath of Italy’s finest, while the cocktail list hits the mark with classic Italian libations as well as new standards.

Sunday

For the best Sunday brunch, head to Main Street Bistro, where you'll have a hard time deciding among the savoriy omelets, frittatas, and stir frys or the bistro’s fluffy pancakes and French toast (average main: $8).

Walk off the filling breakfast exploring downtown New Paltz’s specialty shops; standouts include Cocoon, a quirky home decor store, Rock & Snow, an outdoor gear outfitter, and Krause’s Chocolates, where nearly everything is chocolate covered. After exploring Main Street, head over to the historic Huguenot Street and step back into the history of early settlers of the 1600s. Seven historic stone houses built as part of a community of Huguenot settlers remain intact, dating back to the early 18th century. Book the informative tour ($10 for adults, $8 for seniors) ahead of time for the best access to the site.

Finish the day at the Robibero Family Vineyards, a family-owned and -operated winery estabilshed in 2010. Wine tastings ($10 for 5 samples of wine, which includes a souvenir wine glass) at the wine bar bring out an assortment of rieslings and cabernet sauvignon, poured by an informed and friendly staff. End the weekend with a relaxing picnic on the vineyard grounds, as cheeses, meats, and crackers are available from the tasting room and pair nicely with the Robibero wine.

When to Go

April and May is prime season in New Paltz, as the spring blooms capture the best of the Shawangunk Mountains.

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5 Hudson Valley Wineries to Visit This Spring http://ift.tt/1PEKaAM

Escaping New York City is often a must for those living, working, and playing in the bustling metropolis—and for those who are just visiting. As fate would have it, the viticulturally rich Hudson Valley is just a short drive or train ride away, offering an ever-expanding wine country that is making oenophiles all over the world stand up and take notice of this burgeoning region. What’s interesting about the Hudson Valley Wine Region is that it has four existing wine trails on both sides of the Hudson River, including the Dutchess Wine Trail, Hudson Berkshire Beverage Trail, Shawangunk Wine Trail, and Upper Hudson Wine Trail, but it is growing rapidly even outside of these confines. Newcomer wineries such as Nostrano Vineyards are producing intriguing young wines like its Estate Baco Noir and Estate Riesling, while offering a slew of culinary and music events to further a wine lover’s experience. Other vineyards like Brotherhood, with deep roots in the region, focus on producing small batches of wine made with character and high integrity.

Spring is the perfect time to visit the Hudson Valley. You can work your way into the warmer weather with light jackets, wrapped in warm blankets if needed, sipping a glass of New York State wine.

Nostrano Vineyards

The new kid on the block, Nostrano Vineyards, is owned by Nic and Kayleigh Bozzo who opened its doors in 2014. Nic is a fourth-generation farmer who took over his grandfather’s apple farm in 2009 in Milton, New York, armed with a degree in landscape architecture. He began planting the vineyard in 2010 with three varietals of seedless table grapes—pinot noir, riesling and cabernet franc. In 2014, he added three more varieties of seedless table grapes, and in 2015 planted an acre of pinot gris. Today, the vineyard is currently producing pinot noir, cabernet franc, riesling, a baco noir blend and an unoaked chardonnay. Their most recent releases are the 2014 estate cabernet franc and the 2015 estate riesling. The Bozzos host live music at the winery several times a month from May through October, a Fall Festival and marketplace every October, and a farm-to-table dinner in August.

Tousey Winery

Tousey Winery has been a family-run enterprise from the start. Ray Tousey turned his dream into a reality when he took the beautiful family-owned property and transformed it into a vineyard.  Today, Tousey is run and owned by Ben and Kimberly Peacock. Ray’s daughter, Kimberly, was the natural choice to oversee the winery along with her husband, Ben, whose wine knowledge and business know-how rounds out the team perfectly.  With Kimberly having lived in Denmark and Ben hailing from England, they have a unique blend of European sensibility and local Hudson Valley roots. The winery produces pinot noir, cabernet franc, riesling, chardonnay, a dry rosé and three proprietary blends under its Scarlet Tiger brand. And don’t forget to try the estate bottled pinot noir, as Wine Enthusiast recommended it as one of the top 24 red wines to try from New York.

 

Brotherhood

If you’re a history buff and a wine lover, you can’t miss Brotherhood Winery—the oldest American winery—in operation since 1836. The cellars were excavated by hand in the 19th century when French Huguenot Jean Jaques began planting grapes on his newly purchased land. The most recent owners of the winery include Chilean winemakers who have embarked on a massive restoration and renovation program at Brotherhood that includes equipment upgrades, vineyard acquisitions, the planting of new vines, and a facility remodeling. The winery continues to dazzle guests with tours of the most interesting nooks of this historical site, which has now become a charming place for private events, weddings, balls, and the like. The vineyard produces a number of varietals such as New York premium cabernet, chardonnay, merlot, and reisling, among others. They also offer an impressive roster of sparkling and dessert wines including ruby port, icewine and cream sherry.

 

Baldwin Vineyards

Well known for its Strawberry, Wine & Chocolate festival in May, Baldwin’s 35-acre vineyard produces some of the most intriguing dessert and fruit-forward wine in the country. Since 1982, owners Patricia and Jack Baldwin have been working tirelessly to create a micro-winery that offers a wide array of different styles of wine for the discerning palate. Best sellers for the winery include their dessert wine, made from black raspberries, as well as Anthony’s vintage, also producing hints of raspberry. 

Milbrook Vineyards & Winery

Milbrook Vineyards is owned by prominent wine aficionados, John and Kathe Dyson, who own additional wineries, including Pebble Ridge Vineyards & Wine Estates. Milbrook, John’s first wine venture, was also the first vineyard in the Hudson River region of New York dedicated exclusively to the production of vinifera grapes. The vineyard produces chardonnay, pinot noir, cabernet franc, riesling and tocai friulano, an Italian grape varietal. 

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10 Hotel Brands with Outstanding Bath Amenities http://ift.tt/eA8V8J

A litmus test of luxury while you’re away from home, a hotel’s bathroom products may be small in size, but they play a large role in determining guest satisfaction. It’s no surprise, then, that hotels are becoming more discerning when it comes to the toiletries they stock. Of course, there are plenty of individual properties with exquisite offerings laid out on the sink, but what about hotel brands? We’ve selected 10 companies that offer outstanding products at every single one of their properties, which should remove some guesswork when you plan your next hotel stay. —Zachary Laks

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Q&A: Chris Pavone, Author of 'The Travelers' http://ift.tt/1MxwLQz

The Travelers’ hero, Will Rhodes, is a travel writer turned accidental spy. Our founder, Eugene Fodor, also used travel writing as a front while working for the CIA. Naturally, we’re hooked. What was your inspiration?

I’ve had dozens of jobs—I’ve always been a huge fan of quitting—for many different types of employer: federal and local government, small and midsize businesses, international conglomerates, publicly traded and privately owned. One was an advertising agency that specialized in international campaigns, a workplace where everyone was from somewhere else, and they all seemed to speak a half-dozen languages and smoke multiple cigarette at once, and they were constantly jetting off to other continents to hand-hold clients. Or at least that’s what they told me. It occurred to me that they might be doing something completely different—I might be doing something completely different, and not know it. How certain are any of us of whom we really work for? And what the true agenda is? How do we really know, for certain?

How would you describe The Travelers, the New York-based travel magazine where most of the characters work? 

The office is a mash-up between places that declined to make me job offers—Condé Nast in the Madison Avenue building, and Food & Wine on Sixth Avenue, and The New Yorker in the great old offices on 43rd Street (I interviewed for a lot of jobs)—and a place where I did get a job: the old Random House headquarters, in a decaying midcentury building that I somehow found charming. But the business itself is meant to feel general, like any other outfit in a contracting industry, facing a variety of threats from without—merger or buyout or layoffs or shutdown, the inexorable march of capitalist progress, the sorts of things that nearly all of us end up worrying about.

Travel media folks will relish the insider industry details. You even describe a press dinner and its personalities. What or who was your source for the terrific behind-the-scenes commentary?

I’m my source! I had editorial jobs for nearly two decades, and my longest stint was as a cookbook editor at Clarkson Potter, which was then (and still is now) a prestigious imprint for any food author, or in fact anyone writing any sort of lifestyle book. I attended plenty of events whose purpose was to seduce media into favorable coverage (or into cookbook deals). I think the most decadent of these was at Thomas Keller’s Per Se, though for the life of me I can’t remember who was trying to sell what to whom (perhaps that speaks to the efficacy of these sorts of events). I was surrounded by magazine people, and we all had a lot to drink along with the exceptional food, and besides coat-check tips no one spent a cent for this spectacular meal at one of the most revered restaurants in the world.

The book’s characters travel to dozens of countries from Argentina to Spain, but Iceland gets the most ink. What about Iceland made it such an ideal setting for major plot twists?

A few years ago, my family took a two-week holiday to Iceland, and I was absolutely blown away by its dramatic, forbidding beauty. Everything about Iceland seemed redolent of nature’s awesome power—thundering waterfalls and exploding geysers and active volcanoes and plate-tectonic earthquakes, cliffs and glaciers and whales—and the futility of man’s elemental struggle to survive. It also struck me as terribly lonesome, the sort of place you’d go if you really wanted to disappear. For one of the characters in this novel, that’s really important. 

You devote several enjoyable paragraphs to Will’s expert packing routine. You also travel a lot yourself. Are you similarly well-organized? What always has a place in your carry-on?

“Well-organized” is a polite phrase for what I am, and Will’s punctilious organization is the least fictional passage in the book. What do I always bring? A backup novel. As a book editor, one of my survival mechanisms was the ability to stop reading a manuscript when I stopped getting something out of it. Plot still unresolved? Big twists still in the future? Fine with me. I’m not going to devote another 3 hours to something that’s not helping me grow as a reader, a writer, or a human being. Whenever that realization dawns, I want to be able to give up the old, and start something new. Nobody is handing out any prizes for number of books finished, or at least not any prize that I want.

Interestingly, Will “ always—100 per cent of the time—takes the audio tour” at local sights. What audio-tours, if any, would he recommend to Fodor’s travelers?

Any museum’s. They’re not expensive, and almost never disappointing. And on the rare occasion when they do prove tiresome? I simply stop listening, and I’m none the worse. But when an audio tour is good, I think it pulls me much more intimately into the culture.

Your books always take readers to foreign locales. Any idea where we’ll go to next?

I’m planning for my next novel to take place largely in Mexico and Guatemala. Not the Mexico of Cancun and Tulum, Puerto Vallarta and Acapulco, but in places where American tourists are few and far between. Because although these characters will look like tourists, something else will be going on. 

Finally, you clearly love to travel, yourself. What’s on your personal bucket list?

New Zealand, South Africa, Morocco, Tokyo. You know, the convenient places from New York! When my twin boys were five, one of them fell from a large dangerous climbing apparatus in Luxembourg, and broke his arm. When the cast finally came off, I asked him what he’d learned from the experience. “Breaking your arm,” he told me, “doesn’t hurt that much.” Similarly, I recently sat in coach for an ungodly long flight from New York to Hong Kong, and it wasn’t nearly as bad as I’d expected. I’m willing to break that particular arm again. 

 

Chris Pavone is the New York Times bestselling author of The Travelers, The Expats and The Accident. He is the winner of the Edgar and Anthony awards for best first novel. He was a book editor for nearly two decades and lives in New York City with his family.

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America's Best Spring Flower Festivals http://ift.tt/eA8V8J

As the spring season revs up this year, festivals across the country make celebrities of their green-thumbed citizens. From a town that showcases 4.5 million tulips a year to a remote island filled with lilacs, the country’s best spring flower festivals celebrate the season and provide a good reason to stop and smell the roses. —Zachary Laks

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10 New Cruise Ships Sailing Europe This Year http://ift.tt/eA8V8J

Forego the hotel hopping, endless train rides, and rental car mishaps that can mire a European getaway by arriving fresh in a new destination each morning on board the world’s newest and most technologically advanced cruise ships. We’ve tallied up the most remarkable new cruise ships sailing Europe this year that push the boundaries of engineering. From haute cuisine by way of a Thomas Keller outpost to the rush of the world’s longest slide at sea, there are a host of firsts debuting this year that further impress how cruising can be a European destination vacation for all. —Zachary Laks

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20 Can't-Miss Theme Park Attractions in Orlando http://ift.tt/eA8V8J

Orlando’s theme parks—namely Walt Disney World and Universal Orlando—have become enmeshed in the pop-culture mainstream with classics (think Pirates of the Caribbean and Space Mountain) and modern-day engineering marvels (a Harry Potter thrill ride utilizing advanced robotic arm technology). Tallying up the very best on offer in the city by way of its leading theme parks and lesser-known finds, Orlando’s the only place in the world where you can zip through the heights of Mount Everest, plunge into the depths beneath a mammoth T. rex, and test your limits on a launch coaster in a single day. Here are the 20 theme park attractions you cannot miss—a handy checklist for your next Orlando getaway. —Zachary Laks

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Where You Can Sleep in a Castle in the Italian Countryside http://ift.tt/1q1op9F

The countryside between Milan and Parma, in the Emilia-Romagna region of Italy, is characterized by rolling green hills, flower-filled meadows, and medieval castles sitting grandly on great parcels of land. Parma itself is a charming town of just under 200,000 with an impressive collection of architecture from different periods. Of course, the province of Parma is famous for several beloved foodstuffs, including everyone's favorite pasta topper, Parmigiano-Reggiano cheese. And it's said that the breezes from the Parma river, which runs near the city, help to perfectly cure Prosciutto di Parma ham, another world-famous treat. A perfect trip to this enchanting part of Italy includes stops in both town and country—ideally you'll want a car to do some independent exploring. To really enjoy la dolce vita, spend your nights at one of the castle inns that pepper the countryside. See below for two incredible options, plus some suggestions for how to spend your days.

Sleep

Locanda del Re Guerriero is a 12-room inn that sits on a beautifully landscaped private park with sculptures dotting the grassy lawn and a driveway lined by poplar trees. Each room has a unique look and layout, with old-world touches like exposed beams, and antique furnishings accented by unusual art on the walls. Breakfast is your dream country spread of fruits, yogurts, cheese, and meats, plus whatever you feel like ordering from the kitchen. And it's extremely pleasant to while away part of the morning wandering the lush grounds.

Just behind the inn sits the historic Castello di San Pietro, a 1460 castle that houses the current owner's impressive art collection. Tours can be arranged to see works that include a squadron of replicas of the famous Terracotta Warriors of Xi'an, China, hauntingly displayed in a basement room. There's more antique Asian art upstairs, plus many contemporary works.

Antica Corte Pallavicina is a dreamy estate, and it's is pretty much everything an Italophile gastronome could dream of. The 15th-century castle sits on a farm producing everything from fruits and vegetables to grapes for the house-made wines to pigs and other animals. There's even a dairy on site for the milk that goes into wheels of Parmigiano-Reggiano. With these ingredients, chef Massimo Spigaroli cooks amazing meals in the elegant restaurant, for which he received a Michelin star in 2011, making it a destination in the Parma countryside. Like residents of the court used to do, the current owners are curing pork in the sprawling cellar, where logs of Culatello, often dubbed the "king of hams" hang to dry, marked with the names of the well-known restaurants and chefs who've claimed their portion. Of course, anyone dining in the restaurant gets to dig into this sumptuous, ruby-red thin-sliced meat. Upstairs are six elegantly rustic guest rooms with large windows overlooking the farm and the Po River nearby. If you can't stay, visits are available, without without tastings of house-made products (but why would anyone skip that?). Details here.

Explore

There's plenty to do in the area (and your hotel hosts can give you many other ideas), but here are a few highlights.

The strange and fascinating Labirinto della Masone which opened this spring, was a longtime goal of well-known art magazine publisher Franco Maria Ricci. Word is Ricci was inspired partly by the labyrinth obsession of his friend, the Argentinean writer Jose Luis Borges, which he combined with his own interest in bamboo. Rather than hedges, this labyrinth is formed by poles of bamboo, which fall against one another from opposite sides of the path, creating a pyramidal tunnel each seeker must walk through. It is very possible to get lost (you'll be provided with a map in case you need to peek), but if you manage to reach the center of the maze, an impressive pyramid-shaped building rewards you there. Before or after trying your luck in the labyrinth, visit the onsite art gallery, which holds part of Ricci's eclectic collection. You'll find everything from religious works to contemporary pieces, plus some of Ricci's published additions.

Be sure to spend some time getting to know Parma, which is easy to explore in an afternoon. The town is extremely walkable (or, if you're daring, you could do like many residents do and whiz around on a bike), and you'll want to sign up for a tour or consult a guidebook to be sure you understand what you're seeing. In the Piazza Duomo lies the beautiful medieval cathedral, with its well-worn stone lions flanking an ornate wooden door. Across the way is the town's crown jewel, the Baptistry, a pink marble tower that's one of the best known medieval buildings in Italy.

When hunger strikes, head to the charming Oste Magno, a local favorite family-run wine bar that lies down an adorable alley. Here the local vino—bubbly, red, slightly sweet Lambrusco—is served traditionally, in a small bowl. Select your salumi and cheese from the case up front, then head to the tiny restaurant in back for a small selection of nonna-prepared traditional dishes.

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Where to Eat in Healdsburg Now http://ift.tt/1XJ3bIi

One of the great charms of Healdsburg in Sonoma is that it manages to successfully maintain a small-town feel while constantly growing, adding new restaurants and tasting rooms. While the town boasts a number of notable favorites, some of the top picks are worth a second look, thanks to new chefs and new concepts.

In a town with no shortage of places that focus on seasonal, local, farm to table dining, Kinsmoke is the only true barbecue spot and the latest addition to the downtown dining scene. You order at the counter and are served on butcher paper-lined trays. On the menu you’ll find grilled options like burgers, steak, and a pork chop as well as smoky meat from “the pit.” Choose from ribs, brisket, St. Louis–style pork ribs or shoulder, homemade sausage, or chicken—all served by the rack or the pound, or in sandwiches. On the side you’ll find the typical offerings including potato salad, baked beans, slaw, mac and cheese, and cornbread. To drink there’s local wine, beer, and apple and pear ciders from Sonoma Cider, headquartered in Healdsburg and slated to open a tasting room later this year.

Healdsburg is a prime location for wine, and the town boasts no fewer than 25 tasting rooms within the city limits. But the latest tasting room isn’t for wine or even beer or cider—it’s all about tea. Taste of Tea offers the relaxation of tea along with an opportunity for discovery and perhaps some pampering. It’s part tea lounge, part cafe, and part spa, making it the perfect place to take a little break from wine tasting or touring. The shop boasts more than 50 different kinds of Chinese, Japanese, and Taiwanese teas, plus artisanal tea blends with and without caffeine. As far as food goes, the menu is limited and light; enjoy miso ramen or an indulgent green tea cheesecake before heading to the relaxation room for a Japanese green tea foot soak or facial.

After 23 years, Bistro Ralph has fully transitioned into Ralph’s Martini House. What was an intimate restaurant is now a bustling bar that stays open until 10 pm every night and midnight on Saturdays. The vibe is casual and lively, and the menu offers small bites to complement drinks. The martini-focused menu offers about 10 kinds of both gin and vodka as well as classic house cocktails such as the Sazerac, Vieux Carré, Mai Tai, and a spicy version of the Moscow Mule made with their housemade ginger syrup. It’s a good spot for starting or ending an evening or grabbing a bite around 3 or 4 in the afternoon when everything else seems to have just closed or hasn’t yet opened.

Housed in a James Beard award–winning building, Shed, described as a “modern grange,” is an ambitious emporium of sorts with housewares, pantry staples, a larder, farm and garden store, a coffee bar, fermentation bar, and at the center, Shed Cafe. The restaurant has an open prep kitchen and wood-burning oven that turns out delicious pizzas and platters of oysters. Since culinary director Perry Hoffman came on board, the restaurant has expanded its service and now offers dinner service for true all-day dining. Hoffman, who earned a Michelin star at Étoile in Napa, brings an earthy elegance to a menu driven largely by the availability of produce from within 10 miles. True to his fine-dining roots, he has just added a nightly prix-fixe menu with an amuse bouche, light starter, vegetable-based first course, meat or fish for second course, sweet or savory dish for the meal's end, and a surprise from HomeFarm or the garden for the guest to take home. The food here sparkles with creativity and freshness in dishes like Preston farm carrot salad with yogurt, medjool dates, bee pollen, and young lettuce or Catalina yellowtail and sea urchin with brown rice cracker, mandarinquat, ponzu, and ginger.

Spoonbar has brought on husband-and-wife team Patrick and Casey Van Voorhis as co-executive chefs, each of whom have worked at Michelin-starred Italian restaurants in San Francisco. Don’t be surprised to see Italian ingredients or accents working their way into the menu. Some recent dishes include Meyer lemon gnudi with rainbow chard, confit truffle, and chicken cracklings as well as roasted cauliflower ravioli with kohlrabi, preserved lemon, fried shallots, and truffle perlage. The bar program continues to be a focus, with several cocktails on tap, as well as classic cocktails made with many fresh local ingredients and local spirits. The chef team have also revamped the menu at nearly Pizzando, adding dishes such as burrata with roasted apple, prosciutto, aceto balsamico, and grilled focaccia and pizza with charred broccoli, ricotta, green garlic, and a farm egg.

Amy Sherman is a San Francisco–based food and travel writer and cookbook author. She has written for Shermans Travel, Frommer’s, Recipe.com, and Epicurious, as well as 7x7, Cheers, and Gastronomica magazines. Follow her @cookingwithamy.

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Europe's 15 Most Romantic Getaways http://ift.tt/eA8V8J

There may be no better place to travel for romance than Europe. Whether you're relaxing at a spa on the shores of Lake Como or strolling through Salzburg's cobblestone streets hand-in-hand, the slower pace of life on the Continent is deliciously conducive to couples time. These are the best spots for a romantic getaway in Europe.

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World's Most Beautiful Spring Flowers http://ift.tt/eA8V8J

Chase away dreary, monochrome winter thoughts with an explosion of color signifying the season’s rebirth. While botanical gardens start opening their doors to visitors, and flower festivals get underway, you can head out into the countryside and run into fields of wildflowers around the world. For even more overwhelming views, here are a few places where you can see dense concentrations of specific blooms that create seas of color.

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Europe's 15 Best Cities for Arts & Culture http://ift.tt/eA8V8J

Whether you prefer to see the classics in Rome or modern-art installations in Basel, we've captured Europe's best arts and culture destinations. You'll find traditional arts and culture centers like Florence and Paris in the lineup, plus a few surprises, like Cambridge and Granada. Get ready to soak up some serious culture in these outstanding cities across Europe.

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Long Weekend in Palm Springs http://ift.tt/1S9kuAF

In the golden age of Hollywood, Palm Springs was the weekend destination of choice for celebrities such as Frank Sinatra, the Gabor sisters, and Cary Grant. The endless sunshine and arid climate also made the area attractive to retirees, but Palm Springs has been upping its cool factor thanks to an influx of boutique hotels (hello, Ace Hotel) and music festivals including Coachella and Joshua Tree. Leonardo DiCaprio recently purchased the Dinah Shore estate here. Beyond the festivals, this desert retreat makes an ideal weekend escape, especially for architecture buffs who come to appreciate the area's stunning examples of midcentury modern architecture. And thanks to a new, direct flight from JFK on JetBlue, getting to this desert oasis is easier than ever.

Friday

Unpack your sunglasses and check into the Kelly Wearstler–designed Avalon Hotel, which was formerly The Viceroy. The look is Hollywood Regency with a playful edge. Guestrooms are whitewashed with small pops of color. A large inflatable swan floats around the pool, which is lined by canary yellow sun loungers. If you need fuel, tuck into that California staple of avocado toast at the in-house Chi Chi restaurant.

Take an Uber or hop on the free trolley, the BUZZ, to explore downtown Palm Springs. Start at the Palm Springs Art Museum Architecture and Design Center, an exhibition space that’s also home to a high-end store, selling locally made jewelry and homewares. Walk north to explore the Design District. If you need a sugar boost, pop into Great Shakes; the Coachella Valley is the date capital of the world, so slurping on a date shake is a must. For fun gifts and souvenirs, head to Destination Palm Springs. Architecture nerds will appreciate a tissue box shaped like a modernist home or an “archi-deck-ture” of cards, featuring the city’s most iconic buildings. For housewares with a unique Palm Springs style and humor, stop by Michael Weems. This former designer for Gucci and Tiffany now creates coasters emblazoned with slogans such as “Betty Ford Was Here” and trays printed with sketches of modern buildings. Next door, his Autoerotica shop sells photos of vintage Americana imprinted on pieces of vintage cars (he’s patented the process).

Stop by the iconic Melvyn’s for a pre-dinner martini. Frank Sinatra was a regular, and Melvyn’s has a gloriously stuck-in-time quality, with waiters in dark suits and an older clientele whose sartorial choices lean toward white blazers and cravats. Order a dirty martini at the bar—it will be placed on a Frank Sinatra napkin.

Head to the celeb-favorite Parker Hotel to eat at its formal Mister Parker’s. The vibe is dark and sexy, and unlike many places in town, the service is top notch. The bartender will whip up cocktails made to order (there’s no menu) as you tuck into small plates of grilled octopus, mini lobster tacos, and pan-roasted duck breast.

Saturday

Pop by the always-hip Ace Hotel for breakfast at the King’s Highway, which was formerly a Denny’s. The vibe is laid-back cool. Kick off with an almond milk date shake. If you’re sick of avocado toast, try the Moroccan Scramble, a dish of spicy eggs and chickpeas served on top of grilled sourdough.

Drive out to the Annenberg Estate at Sunnylands (pictured), but reservations are essential to tour the main house. Sunnylands was once the home of former ambassador and media magnate Walter Annenberg and his wife Leonore. Today the estate is used as a retreat; President Obama met with Chinese President Xi Jinping here. The 25,000 square-foot home was designed by architect A. Quincy Jones in classic midcentury style, and the interior décor is fabulous and fastidious—guest rooms are fully color coordinated down to a bowl of matching jelly beans. One of the many highlights is the Room of Memories, filled with handwritten notes and photographs of bold-faced visitors ranging from Ronald Reagan to the Queen Mother.

Break for a quick lunch at the casual Babes BBQ & Brewhouse. Order the St. Louis ribs along with a baked yam smothered in honey butter, and sip on one of their award-winning beers like the Blackfin Lager or Belgian Vanilla Blonde Ale.

No visit to Palm Springs is complete without a visit to the Palm Springs Aerial Tramway. The rotating cars offer 360-degree mountain views, and the 2.5-mile ride through Chino Canyon takes about 10 minutes. Bring your own snowshoes or sleds to make the most of the summit snow, or just soak up the scenery from the cocktail bar at the Lookout Lounge.

The Saguaro Palm Springs is one of the most popular places to stay during Coachella, thanks to its rainbow display of colors and fun vibe. Another reason to go? The menu at the in-house El Jefe, which is inspired by Mexican street food. Sip on a mojito or a fresh fruit margarita, and share plates of grilled skirt steak tacos, or a taco topped with mahi mahi and pickled red cabbage.

Sunday

Enjoy a lazy brunch at the cozy Norma’s, where the focus is on high-calorie comfort food. Standouts include a sugary doughnut filled with lemon and blueberry crème, as well as huevos rancheros.

For an insider's look at Palm Spring’s architecture, take The Modern Tour. Helmed by Michael Stern, this is the official tour of the Palm Springs Art Museum Architecture and Design Museum. Visitors will learn about the history of midcentury architecture in town, but Stern also arranges peeks inside private homes. Highlights include the 700 square-foot home of architect Albert Frey (pictured), a drive past Liberace’s home, and a stop at the Frederick Loewe estate.

Before hopping on your flight home, unwind at the Two Bunch Palms Spas, which is a favorite of celebrities. Purchase a day pass to soak in the mineral springs–fed “grotto,” which is heated to a toasty 99 degrees. You’d be tempted to soak there all day, but book a massage if you can. Be warned that the changing facilities are Spartan at best and also communal; the facilities are decidedly no frills. Have a healthy lunch at the light-filled Essence. Try the papaya chicken salad and finish off with the dark chocolate and fruit plate.  

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5 Mexico City Spots That Prize Authenticity http://ift.tt/1Rqs2SJ

Mexico City’s traditional lucha libre fighters––who delight their legions of fans with backflips in and out of the wrestling ring, while clad in colorful masks and skimpy shorts ––may not be staging real matches, but their authenticity as a pop cultural phenomenon is never in doubt.

Elsewhere in Mexico’s capital city, the phrase hecho en Mexico (“made in Mexico”) is taking on added significance, as a new generation of restaurateurs, mixologists, and artisans are emphasizing local ingredients and craft products. There are pop-up markets selling goods by up-and-coming designers, galleries and museums spotlighting the work of more established Mexican artists, and restaurants and groceries adopting the fresh, local model.

Even a traditional luxury property like the Four Seasons Hotel is getting into the act, by recently hosting The Ceviche Project, a pop-up ceviche tasting, and planning a new restaurant that will specialize in regional Nayarit cuisine. Here are five other destinations that reflect different interpretations of Mexican identity and culture.

“Hidden” Culinary Bargain

At The Hidden Kitchen, chef Gerardo Aguilar hosts a convivial four-course dinner twice a week for about a dozen guests in his professional kitchen. You can book the entire table or reserve a few seats and be assured of a convivial evening. With a soundtrack of Mexican hip-hop, the French-trained chef might start the proceedings with a gin-based cocktail of the day, before preparing a seasonally driven menu.

Assisted by several sous chefs, Aguilar might pull out globally inspired dishes like a salad of quinoa, cucumber, and citrus fruits in a champagne vinaigrette; a white fish ceviche with cantaloupe, fermented habañero peppers, black tobiko, and seaweed; and a main course of sweetbreads with Portuguese clams, octopus, shrimp, and fresh horseradish. The multi-hour experience, with wine pairings, is value-priced at less than $35 a person.

A Modern Approach to Bugs

Don’t bug out if there’s an insect on your plate at upscale restaurant-bar Limosneros—it’s supposed to be there. This sleek establishment in the Centro Historico is serving traditional delicacies, like escamoles, or ant eggs, paired with scarlet runner beans and fresh tortillas, while emphasizing local and organic ingredients.

Under general manager Juan Pablo Ballesteros, whose family operates the adjacent landmark Cuban restaurant Café de Tacuba, Limosneros offers plenty of appetizing choices that don’t include small-legged creatures. Among the standouts are rabbit in a “drunken” sauce and squid in a black ink sauce over rice. You can wash it all down artisanal spirits and beers and inventive cocktails, like one blending mezcal, avocado, and cilantro.

Celebrating Cacao

Mucho Mundo Chocolate Museum celebrates the culture and art of chocolate. Situated in a century-old mansion in Mexico City’s historic Colonia Juarez neighborhood, the museum is a passion project of Ana Rita Garcia Lascurain, an architect who has lovingly restored the circa 1909 property. Exhibits at the four-year-old museum trace the history of cacao, whose seeds were so valuable that they were used as currency by the Aztecs, and explain the development of the modern chocolate industry.

You can try your hand at making chocolate using a traditional metate, or grinding stone. Don’t miss the small, fragrant room on the second floor lined with some 3,000 chocolate discs, but save your sampling for the café-shop, which serves chocolate drinks, including one mixed with corn, chile and honey, and all manner of chocolates—the adventurous will want to taste the bar made crunchy by the inclusion of grasshopper parts.

The Right Tools for Authentic Mexican Cuisine

The name of Tlapaleria Gastronomica, a year-old shop in the artsy Roma neighborhood selling artisanal products made in Mexico, is a play on words, meaning gastronomic hardware store. Here you will find a range of products produced locally and from other regions of the country, including salsas, chocolate, beer, tequila, and mezcal. You can sample the Via Corta coffee roasted in Puebla at the coffee bar, and other products are also showcased during regular tastings.

If you’re really hungry, head next door to sibling restaurant El Parnita for inventive tacos—like one with grilled tuna, fries, and guacamole—and other creative riffs on traditional Mexican street foods.

Magical Cocktails Beyond the Margarita

Tucked into the lower level of an unassuming building in the Colonia Juarez neighborhood, Xaman Bar is one of Mexico City’s newest mixology bars. The dimly lit space is dominated by a laboratory-like bar, stocked with plants and various beakers and glass vessels, and presided over by French bartenders from Le Baron who have teamed up with local collective Grupo Sicario.

The bar’s name is celebrated in a separate lounge space with wooden bookshelves carrying volumes about the role of the shaman or medicine man. The thoughtfully made drinks—such as the signature cocktail incorporating white tequila, Ancho Reyes, laurel syrup, and a twist of grapefruit—will have you believing in the shaman’s powers by the end of the night. 

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Europe's 15 Most Charming Destinations http://ift.tt/eA8V8J

From Salzburg's cobblestone streets to Cappadocia's hillside cave architecture, these are the top places in Europe—as rated by Fodor's travelers—for picturesque charm. Envision perfect postcard settings for your next European vacation, from historic architecture to stunning scenery. Whichever photogenic destination you choose, don't forget your camera!

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Spring 2016 Guide to Paris http://ift.tt/1nWoZUu

As the songbook says, you'll never know the charm of spring until you've spent April in Paris. We can only agree. In spring, Parisians forget the winter doldrums and get out to dine, meet with friends, and enjoy all the city has to offer. Which, this spring, is a lot!

Museums and Exhibitions

Spring is the perfect time to discover, or rediscover, the Musée Jacquemart-André, presenting L'Atelier en Plein Air (March 18–July 25), 50 masterpieces of outdoor painting, from Turner and Delacroix to Impressionist masters Boudin, Monet, Degas, Gaugin and Morisot. Set in a grand Parisian mansion once owned by passionate travelers and art collectors Edouard André and Nélie Jacquemart, the museum's elegant period rooms feature the couple's stellar art collection as well as a charming tearoom, with hand-painted murals and a spacious garden terrace.

Plan a long weekend to revel in the city's many blockbuster art events, beginning with the Musée d'Orsay's Douanier Rousseau: Archaic Innocence (March 22–July 17). This colorful survey investigates the idea of "archaism" through seminal works by the master of naïve art, as well as those by the artists that most influenced Rousseau and those who were influenced by him, despite his outsider status—Picasso, Kandinsky, Seurat, Delaunay, and many more.

For an excellent companion exhibition, head across the Seine to the Centre Pompidou's spectacular Paul Klee: Irony at Work (April 6–August 1). The first Klee retrospective in France in nearly 50 years, this sweeping exhibition follows the artist's career through seven distinct periods via more than 250 illustrative and graphic works, drawings, paintings, and Klee's highly influential treatises on color theory.

One of Paris's most hotly anticipated shows, Monumenta 2016 (May 8–June 18) is the city's premier sculpture event, held bi-annually at the soaring Grand Palais. This year stars Chinese artist Huang Yong Ping, whose controversial works incorporating religion, history, and politics earned him a reputation as one of China's foremost avant-garde artists (Ping has lived and worked in Paris since the late 80s). The show also includes a series of lectures and performances, and visitors can refuel at the in-house café. Past Monumenta artists have included Richard Serra, Anish Kapoor and Christian Boltanski.

Beginning May 4, the Palais Galliera, Paris's fashion museum, presents Anatomy of a Collection, historic fashions drawn from the museum's unparalleled collection. The high-low show includes glamorous pieces worn by historic icons (Marie Antoinette's corset, Napoleon's waistcoat, Audrey Hepburn's day dress) mixed with everyday garments worn by average people from the 18th century to today. A journey through time and a glimpse into a singular collection.

Rock 'n' roll aficionados don't miss the Philharmonie de Paris's exhibition The Velvet Underground: New York Extravaganza (March 30–August 21). Celebrating the 50th anniversary of the band's influential debut album, the exhibition traces a six-part journey, from the beginnings of the band's two founders, Lou Reed and John Cale, through the Factory years and the band's many reinventions. To mark the show, a scintillating series of tribute concerts dedicated to the cult group will be held over two weekends in April and May.

Fairs and Festivals

Spring is an excellent time for collectors, with an unprecedented chance to view the work of hundreds of up-and-coming artists represented by 143 galleries from 22 countries. Over the four days of the Paris Art Fair (March 30–April 3) the Grand Palais's iconic Beaux-Arts facade will be spectacularly lit up from 7 pm–midnight with a series of original video projections by six international artists. This year, the festival pays homage to Korea.

The last weekend of April, art collectors flock to the 46th edition of the popular Grand Marché d'Art Contemporain, featuring the best new works by 500 French and international artists at "atelier" prices.

Top New Hotels

As fashionable Paris moves ever northward, five-star Maison Souquet is the latest to pioneer Pigalle, the city's newest hotspot. Set in a former Belle-Epoque brothel near the Moulin Rouge, this sumptuous boutique hotel spares no indulgence in 20 drop-dead gorgeous rooms designed by Paris interiors superstar Jacques Garcia. Furnished in a fantasy Napoleon III style with exotic flourishes, the hotel's opulent silks, velvets, seductive artworks and period antiques invite voluptuous surrender. The hotel's fabulous cocktail bar—the newest must-go for Paris sophisticates—and spa help guests unwind after a day on the town.

On the opposite end of the design spectrum, Le Cinq Codet, set on a quiet street in Paris's elegant 7th arrondissement, offers a precise, bespoke aesthetic that's every bit as opulent in its own streamlined way. Bright, sunlit rooms—some with Eiffel Tower views—offer custom furnishings, warm wood, parquet floors, natural carpets, and colorful contemporary artworks and photographs. A chic restaurant, with a spacious tree-lined terrace, and cocktail bar and a small state-of-the-art spa wrap up your upscale oh-so-Parisian experience.

Standout Dining

A scintillating new opening from three-star chef Jean-François Piège, Le Grand Restaurant is by many accounts the iconic Paris chef's magnum opus. In an atmosphere of contemporary luxe, with a stunning marble-honed open kitchen, faceted glass ceilings, warm stone walls, and elegant sconces, Piège creates a menu of exquisite refinement: potato soufflé with a shellfish emulsion and black truffle; Noirmouitier cod with a sauce or salted butter, mandarin and wild sorrel. With only 30 seats and rave reviews, be sure to reserve early.

Hot New Boutiques

Pioneered in 2008 by the concept store Merci, the Avenue Beaumarchais, at the edge of the upper Marais, is Paris's latest chic-shopping epicenter. Along with gleaming new outposts of some of the city's most stylish labels—A.P.C., Maison Kitsuné, Acne—these two stellar boutiques are not to be missed. WhiteBird's second outpost (their flagship on Rue du Mont Thabor, in the first arrondissement, opened in 2012) assembles an outstanding collection of A-list French and international jewelry designers. The new Marais outpost reflects the neighborhood's luxe-bobo-chic aesthetic in elegantly minimal designs for everyday—from delicate pavé diamonds to sophisticated knock-out pieces.

A darling of the fashion cognoscenti, Parisian designer Vanessa Seward rocked New York Fashion Week this spring, hipping New Yorkers to what Parisians already knew. Her sleek new boutique highlights the designer's 70s-inspired collection. Adored by Parisians for her lithe, form-flattering designs, you'll find the full range of separates in luxe fabrics: a sleek trench for spring, silk tie blouse, narrow, high-waist trousers, and a standout midi skirt in shimmery blue lurex.

Creative Cocktails

Le Bar du Bristol, Paris's chicest cocktail bar, features ambrosial concoctions by Maxime Hoerth, the city's only Best Craftsman of France in the barman category. Try Hoerth's famous Old Fashioned, or, better yet, come on Speakeasy night (March 24) in 20s dress and receive a free cocktail, or Parisiennes night (April 14), when ladies who order a flute of Dom Perignon receive their second on the house.

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