Caribbean cruise passengers spend twice as much money on souvenirs compared to people who take land vacations. Unfortunately, it's not because the wares you find at each port are so unique. In fact, here's a few seemingly original Caribbean treasures that you're sure to see over and over each time you leave the ship. #1 Caribbean Rum Whether you're a Pirates of the Caribbean fan or not, a bottle of Caribbean rum seems like a must-have … [Read more...]
Weekend in Bangkok
Bangkok is truly one of the world's great cities - it is a thriving hub of activity both day and night. A world class airport connects to the city via a raised skytrain - which in turn connects to the metro. Bangkok is well known for its horrendous traffic - but with public transportation you can avoid a number of these traffic jams. Budget travelers can head straight to Sukhumvit Road on the skytrain - this is a central area from which to … [Read more...]
Antiquing & Wine Tasting in Shenyang
Today was another fun filled day in Shenyang. The group that is hosting us owns a number of incredible antique stores - featuring some of China's finest wood furniture from the Ming and Qing dynasties. A couple of pieces certainly stand out: the largest ancient sandalwood closet in all of China, an amazing large piece of amber with a million year old scorpion preserved perfectly inside, and a huge quartz crystal rock with a number of partially … [Read more...]
Shenyang Cold Weather
Shenyang, where we are currently, is considered just a small to medium sized city in China; it has a population of around 9 million people. Ummm, this would be the second largest city if it was located in the USA, behind NYC and ahead of LA! This is a very wealthy city; we counted 5 different Louis Vuitton shops, a Maserati, Ferrari and Bentley dealerships. Several streets have major name brand after name brand lined up. Cold is the name of … [Read more...]
Hanging out in North Eastern China
I am currently in North Eastern China for some wine and tourism related fun. I'm with Sandi and John, the owners of Arns Winery and Bob and Nancy of Montagana Estate (both premium Napa wineries). We spent the day shopping around Beijing and trying to stay indoors out of the frigid cold. Headed up to Shenyang in the evening - where the temperatures are even colder than Beijing! Today we walked around Shenyang's version of Beijing's Forbidden City … [Read more...]
A Belgian Food Primer
Belgium may be a nation of diminutive size, but it is doing big things in the culinary arena. On a recent trip to this food-obsessed nation, I was able to explore the edible delights that provide visitors a feast fit for the most demanding foodie. Budget-minded gastronomes should note some of Belgium's best dishes are street food, served at easy on the wallet prices. Fries Though called French fries, Belgium is the birthplace and the … [Read more...]
Pre-Christmas Break Vs. Post-Christmas Break: Which One Is Right For You? Guest Post
Christmas is a magical time of year. Family, friends, neighbours and strangers all gather together to share wonderful memories, delicious food and exchange thoughtful gifts. The kindness and generosity that is generated in people at this time of year is admirable. However, with our generosity towards others and our selfless giving, we often forget to make time for ourselves and treat ourselves to something special. We think there is no better … [Read more...]
Great Oxonians
The city is renowned throughout the world for its university. Leading figures in every area of public life have walked through the college halls as students. Here are just some of the many luminaries and distinguished names who share Oxford as their Alma Mater. Aung San Suu Kyi The celebrated humanitarian and Burmese pro-democracy campaigner Aung San Suu Kyi is finally able to enjoy freedom, having spent more than fifteen of the past … [Read more...]
There’s a CHILL Coming to the Southland
The Queen Mary Re-Interprets Winter with 51 Days of Unique Attractions and Ancient Art of Chinese Ice Carving Makes Southland Debut Long Beach, CA (November 6, 2012) --- Already recognized around the world as a maritime icon, the Queen Mary regularly hosts world-class events and attractions. Beginning November 17, a new chapter in her history begins with the arrival of CHILL - a winter celebration like no other. CHILL presents traditional and … [Read more...]
LACOT October Meetup – Los Angeles
Our latest LACOT meetup was at Hotel Wilshire conveniently located on "Miracle Mile" next to "Museum Row" and minutes from the popular Grove Shopping Center. Capitalizing on the often pleasant weather year round, Hotel Wilshire has turned their roof into the centerpiece of their hotel. Appropriately named, the "Roof on Wilshire" is located here, along with a bar, plenty of views and a small pool. The night was remarkably windy and … [Read more...]
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