Chef Interivew- Executive Chef Benjamin Hausner on A Viking River Cruise
On a recent river cruise in the south of France, I had the opportunity to learn about life on a river boat. And more specifically----from the kitchen. The person educating me on all this was none other than our illustrious Executive Chef, Benjamin Hausner. Watching he and his culinary team “in action” on the first few days of our voyage had me wondering just how all this comes together, and with such seamless fluidity? It is a well-orchestrated dance, and all the...
River Cruising Through The South of France
This is the sixth article in this Series on France. Journey with us through one of the most talked about regions in France. The countryside is dreamy, the people are approachable, and the essence of Provence is everywhere----overflowing with bouquets of lavender, robust olive oils, crusty breads, colorful ceramics, delicious cuisine and charming village towns rich in history.
I decided the best way was to traverse this countryside, and experience the real...
Spectacular Spa Retreat In North San Diego…..So Many Ways To Spa!
Framed by the majestic Palomar Mountain Range of northern San Diego County, this Four-Diamond award winning Resort is a lovely enclave, cradled in an idyllic location just an hour from Orange County, CA. Traveling along Highway 76, I passed by horse farms, open space and fruit-stands on a leisurely traverse through the countryside. The Resort welcomed my arrival with a cascading waterfall, crisp air and bright blue skies above. But what I noticed instantly was the sheer quiet. I knew...
Bali Style ~ A Romantic Waterfront Inn On Famed La Jolla Coast
This Inn has been a hundred years in the making. This secret hide-away is perched westward, along the quiet coastline of La Jolla, California. Inspired by the Indonesian island of Bali, the name “Pantai” refers to a white, pristine, sandy beach. The entire property--from stem to stern--features artwork, fabrics, vibrant paintings with elaborately carved wooden picture frames, and custom furniture made of fine Mahogany wood. The furnishings were all hand-selected and directly imported...
Paris- Monet’s Magical Muse
FOR any lover of impressionistic art, and especially artist Claude Monet, here are some very special “not to be missed” places to explore these fine works of art up close and personal. Please enjoy my favorite places when I am in Paris and in need of a “Monet-fix”----Parisian style, but of course!
Musee d'Orsay- Housed in a former railway...
Paris Finds For Foodies… Four “Must See” Spots to Explore
Second in our Series on France- In addition to the “City of Lights” Paris is noted for its incredible cuisine. Each time I visit I am tempted to secure an apartment so I can purchase all the delectable ingredients, and cook it all right there in my own abode. But alas, I am always on the move, so it never quite works out that way. And speaking of “on the move” here are some “not to miss” foodie adventures when you find yourself in Paris! Enjoy my foodie...
Revisiting Our Favorite Restaurant In Paris!
It is hard to get a bad meal in Paris, and we often pop into restaurants based on the menu or the vibe. But here is one of our favorite that we return to each and every time we visit Paris.
La Closerie des Lilas (garden of lilac trees) opened in 1847 as a post station, and by the late 19th Century was frequented by French poet Guillaume Apollinaire, and other poets and notaries. By the...
Exploring Paris In Three Days Flat!
This is the first in a Series of adventures in Paris that can provide an easy guide to anyone wanting to explore this City of Lights, the south of France, the Luberon Hill-top towns and everything in-between. From museums, to dining, to hide-aways, watch for weekly articles to add to your planning guide for Paris!
Now Doesn’t It All Start In Paris?
Our recent trip to France was two years in the making and is...
Happy Birthday Julia! We Adore & Salute You!
A trip to Paris, France is not complete for me without a trip to E. Dehillerin. Tucked on a quiet side street----lined with shade trees----is the mecca of culinary tools and copper-ware. They are the self-described "Specialists of Materials for Cuisine". This establishment has been in existence since 1820 which is almost impossible to comprehend. However that is until you walk in the front door.
The store is chock-full with equipment heavy and light, classic and new, stainless and copper....
Life Is A Beach!
The Fourth of July holiday is officially kicked off in my book. Here is a shot from Inspiration Point just above the Newport Main Channel. Corona Del Mar just looks spectacular. Come enjoy if you can. Have a safe and restful Fourth of July. It will be a marathon of fun this week!!!! (See my post below, for a few fun events to consider.)