This is a story about brilliant branding. It’s about Ireland, but it begins in Chile. In the early 90s one had to head to the far south of South America to sample the tasty, thick, snow-white fillets of a large, deep-water cod called the Patagonian toothfish . No eatery in the U.S. wanted to serve a fish with that name. But when marketers came up with the alluring but meaningless name, “Chilean sea bass,” the fish was on its way to … [Read more...]
Illinois Improbable: A Story of Upending Expectations
When I was a high-school student in Bethesda, Maryland, and beginning to think about college, my parents sat me down and set a parameter: they would only allow a school within 1000 miles of our home, with the idea that I would be more likely to visit over holidays if within that range. My elder sister had already picked a school, Knox College, in Galesburg, Illinois, and now it was my turn. I pulled out a map, cut a string keyed to 1000 miles, … [Read more...]
A “Royal Holiday” in the Heart of Caribbean at Park Royal Cozumel
I first became enamored with all-inclusive resorts two years ago. There is something incredibly liberating about knowing everything is all taken care of in advance. No need to budget your dollars over the course of a vacation. No need to even carry around a wallet. It takes an element of stress away allowing your vacation to feel like a royal experience. My most recent all inclusive experience took place at the Park Royal Cozumel. Arriving … [Read more...]
The Best Snorkeling Locations in Cozumel
The previous day had darkened Cozumel as the storm clouds rolled in bringing rain and winds and choppy water. But I awoke Thursday with the fresh breeze rolling off the ocean and into my hotel room through the open patio. The smell in the air was fresh and I knew today would be prime snorkeling weather. My travel companions and I headed to the dock to meet up with John Cherba and Captain Luis of Reel Adventure Sur. They would be our guides and … [Read more...]
Cyclepaths in Cuba
My father, usually a quiet man, burst through the door and hustled the family in front of the television set. He said we were on the verge of something terrible and we needed to see and understand. It was October 22, 1962. My father, a career officer at the C.I.A., seemed distressed with things he knew that others did not. We then watched in horror as John Kennedy described the Russian missiles west of Havana, capable of reaching our home in … [Read more...]
A Taste of Proper Fun: Bermuda
Like many who have survived into adulthood, I wince when I look back and recall some of the youthful antics I partook under the name of fun. Like a lad who graduates from cheap flavored whiskey to fine wine, I today prefer my fun with a dash of panache, a subtle aroma, and a delightfully delicate nose. So, of course, it is a treat to discover Bermuda, the place that practically invented proper fun, and which now embodies it. The demure … [Read more...]
The 24th Annual Saint Lucia Jazz and Arts Festival
The 24th Annual Saint Lucia Jazz and Arts Festival Draws Internationally Renowned Talent, April 30 – May 10, 2015 Robin Thicke, Jon Secada, Beres Hammond, Jimmy Cliff and Arturo Tappin among stellar line-up! SAINT LUCIA (March 2, 2015) – The annual Saint Lucia Jazz and Arts Festival, now in its 24th year, raises the curtain on April 30 with a line-up of performers who blends island culture, famed musical talent and diverse music … [Read more...]
Riviera Cancun: Secrets Silversands Resort
Looking at numerous websites, Trip Advisor reviews, and tips from friends, we’re spoiled for choice when it comes to picking a travel destination and resort. My husband and I wanted to visit the Riviera Maya this month, in a location away from the thumping of Cancun or Playa del Carmen. What we found was Puerto Morelos, a smaller town smack in between the two, yet close enough to get to the Mayan ruins while enjoying the warm, tropical breezes of … [Read more...]
Bring Your Appetite to Naples, Florida
If you think the Florida restaurant scene is all early bird specials and buffets that cater to the denture set, meet Naples. Not too long ago, menus were dominated by bland dishes that catered to the simple taste buds of Midwestern snowbirds. Middle Americans still flocks to Naples, but their palates have grown more sophisticated. Thankfully, local chefs have exceeded the blossoming epicurean demand and the heavyweight culinary scene is now a … [Read more...]
Eating My Way Through San Juan
When I first started exploring Puerto Rico, I found what I was seeking: Caribbean beaches, stylish hotel rooms by the sea, a capital city with a pulsating beat and genuinely warm locals. What I never expected to find was a mouth-watering culinary scene. Contemporary Cocina Criolla is a fusion that mirrors Puerto Rico’s diversity and is a powerful lens into its history. Its predominate influences are indigenous Taíno blended with an ample measure … [Read more...]
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