Kimberly Fisher's Blog, page 214

Lifestyle Guest Post: 5 Things You Should Know About Tequila

With Cinco de Mayo right around the corner, it’s inevitable that you will be enjoying all things Mexican on this special day. From sombreros to Mezcal and everything in between, the fifth of May is a day when Americans like to explore cuisine and culture from our neighbor to the South. But many are unaware of the true beauty and authenticity behind Tequila, the most recognized spirit of Mexico. With history dating the spirit back to the days of the Aztecs (when Tequila was called “pulque”), Tequila has a celebrated background that goes back as long as Mexico itself.

To help give you a taste of authentic Tequila, we have listed five of the major points everyone should know about Tequila, courtesy of Tequila Partida (www.tequilapartida.com).

* What exactly is Tequila?
The word “Tequila” has a several meanings. It is the name of a town in the state of Jalisco in central Mexico. Tequila is also the name of the region where the spirit is made. And of course, Tequila is an alcoholic beverage made from the blue agave plant, and is also considered the “national drink of Mexico.”

* What is Tequila made from?
Tequila is made from the agave plant. Agave is part of the lily family, and can grow up to 15 feet tall. Because of its prickly texture, many people assume that an agave plant is a cactus, but that’s not the case. And most importantly, the blue agave plant is the source of premium Tequila.

* What is the difference between Tequila and Mezcal?
Tequila is a type of Mezcal made in the Tequila region of Mexico with strict production designations specific to the region.

* What’s the story with the worm?
Some Tequila and Mezcal producers began inserting a worm into the bottle as a marketing gimmick. However, quality Tequilas have always been worm-free!

* What are the different types of Tequila?
There are multiple types of Tequila with different aging. These are typically called “marques.” Different brands usually have a Blanco (sometimes called Plata or Silver) which means unaged, Reposado which is aged between 2 and 11 months, and Añejo, which is aged for at least one year. Some brands also have an Extra Añejo Tequila, which is aged at least three years. Aging generally takes place in wood barrels.


Enjoy and Happy Cinco de Mayo!

Filed under: drink, holiday Tagged: cinco de mayo, tequila

Food Guest Post: Luxury Dining for Spring

Luxury dining is just that, a luxury.  It can be enjoyed any time, but there is something about warmer weather turns it into an extra special treat.  For example, those summering in your Hamptons rentals, Orange County, and other decadent places, can enjoy luxury dining outdoors.  Eating outdoors is extremely relaxing, making a fine meal all the more luxurious.

A great starter for any meal is a salad.  Try a spinach and strawberry salad with Champagne dressing and warm bacon.  Simply wash and dry the spinach, slice sweet ripe strawberries on top, and toss with warm crumbled bacon, slivered almonds and the following dressing.

1 cup Champagne or sparkling wine

1 clove minced garlic

1shallot, minced

Juice of one orange

Shake the ingredients in a cruet or large jar and serve over salad.  This dressing keeps chilled for quite a awhile and tastes best if chilled for at least 24 hours before serving.

For the main course, marinate four large boneless, skinless chicken breasts overnight in the same dressing.   For a side dish, slice zucchini and yellow squash lengthwise into ribbons and brush with olive oil.  Next, sprinkle with fresh cracked black pepper and sea salt, and thread ribbons onto kabobs.  Grill until crisp tender.  Depending on how thin you cut them, they will probably be ready around the same time as the chicken.

Finally, wash the meal down with adult raspberry lemonade.  Using a standard lemonade mix, prepare as directed, and then add a splash of raspberry liqueur.  Add frozen raspberries and lemon slices and serve in a clear container.  It is just what is needed for a refreshing, light but filling luxury dinner on a hot summer night.

For a sweet bite after the main course, throw some grape fruit sections and mango chunks on the grill.  No sugar or other ingredients are needed.  Just grill until nice char lines appear and eat while warm.  The natural fruit caramelizes for a delectable dessert with little hassle.

The ease of these recipes, means the luxury part is enjoyed by everyone; even the cook.  Often the one preparing the meal misses out on the joy of partaking due simply to the stress of preparing.  This should not be the case.  Eating is more than just getting full and pleasing the taste buds, it is a total body experience that is best enjoyed in the company of others.  Luxury does not have to be in a restaurant, nor does it have to cost a lot of money.  It simply needs to be indulgent, as these recipes most definitely are.

Alexandra is a travel enthusiast who loves to write about tourism, beaches, food, and the wonderful things in the world.  She provides her own insights on vacationing to the blogosphere.  If you would like to learn more about her, follow her @alexsjourneys or visit her blog alexsjourneys.wordpress.com.

Filed under: food Tagged: decadence, food, luxury

Travel Guest Post: Napa Valley Events

Wine lovers, prepare – the Napa Valley’s famed summer concerts, harvest season’s wine festivities, and Cabernet Season’s film, art and food festivals offer a cuvee of sensory delights. Napa Valley is known for it’s natural beauty, phenomenal culinary scene (14 Michelin Stars awarded for 2012), world-class accommadations, art, spas and of course, award-winning wine.

While grapes gently ripen on the vines, fans can shop at farmer’s markets, hike, bike and kayak the area’s state parks and nature preserves, and experience the following spring and summer happenings:


NAPA VALLEY ARTS IN APRIL™ (APRIL 1-30, 2012) - A celebration of the elemental connection between wine and the arts, this month-long program satisfies cultural cravings with an exploration of winery art installations, pop-up exhibitions and tastings. Introduced in April 2011, Arts in April offers special access and packages to enjoy the Napa Valley Collection, making it the perfect time to get a dose of Napa Valley culture. http://www.legendarynapavalley.com/artsinapril




AUCTION NAPA VALLEY 2012 – THE AMERICAN WINE CLASSIC (MAY 31-JUNE 3, 2012) –Recognized as the charity event of the season, Auction Napa Valley brings wine lovers and winemakers together to celebrate the best Napa Valley has to offer with four days of: insider’s access into the cool cellars and warm hospitality of renowned Napa Valley vintners; parties ranging from blue-jeans casual to wear-your-finest formal, hosted by the people behind some of the world’s most recognized wines; and more than 250 auction lots ranging from a single case of wine to one-of-a-kind trips. www.napavintners.com


NAPA VALLEY FESTIVAL DEL SOLE (JULY 13-22, 2012) - Set among lush rolling foothills and breathtaking vineyard landscapes, Napa Valley Festival del Sole brings together music, dance, fine wine and cuisine, and unique lifestyle programs for a 10-day experience. Currently in its seventh year, the 2012 festival includes performances by internationally renowned soloists, orchestras, ballet companies, and jazz and popular music artists, all held in settings as diverse as candlelit wine cellars and outdoor amphitheatres. Featured artists include Joshua Bell, Danielle de Niese, Susan Graham, Nathan Gunn, Lisa Delan, Angel Romero, Nina Kotova, Hélène Grimaud, Philharmonia Baroque, the Russian National Orchestra, dancers from the Bolshoi Ballet and more. www.festivaldelsole.org




MUSIC IN THE VINEYARDS (AUG. 1-19, 2012) - This three-week celebration features nearly 40 renowned musicians from around the globe in a variety of stunning outdoor “vineyard venues.” Music in the Vineyards, now in its 18th season, brings together nationally recognized musicians in winery settings in which both performers and audiences experience chamber music as it was originally intended. www.napavalleymusic.org


Enriching Cabernet Season Happenings – The season that follows “Crush” offers the valley a little time to relax once wines are poured into barrels.


NAPA VALLEY FILM FESTIVAL (NOV. 7-11, 2012) – For the second year now, Napa Valley Film Festival showcases the best in new independent filmmaking and world cinema alongside acclaimed food and wine. The festival provides visitors with the opportunity to attend film screenings throughout the Napa Valley’s distinct and charming communities, to get up close and personal with filmmakers and to enjoy exclusive epicurean adventures crafted for festival attendees. www.napavalleyfilmfest.org


FLAVOR! NAPA VALLEY™ (NOV. 14-18, 2012) – Flavor! Napa Valley festival showcases the legendary food and wine talents of the Napa Valley – a region that earned 14 Michelin restaurant stars for 2012 – and offers a five-day series of epicurean and oenophile events, hosted at the Silverado Resort & Spa, the Culinary Institute of America at Greystone (CIA) and at local vineyards, wineries, restaurants, farms and artisanal food purveyors. Net proceeds from the event will support programs and scholarships at the CIA’s Greystone Campus. www.flavornapavalley.com


Spirited Holidays – The Napa Valley’s holiday traditions include quirky lighted tractor parades and magical winter wonderlands complete with horse-drawn carriage rides, as well as festive winery parties and special holiday dinners prepared by celebrated chefs. 


YOUNTVILLE’S 23RD ANNUAL FESTIVAL OF LIGHTS (NOV. 23, 2012) & WINTERSCAPE (December 2012) - Kick off the holiday season at the 23rd Annual Festival of Lights in Yountville, and watch as this charming Napa Valley town transforms into a glowing winter wonderland. Throughout December, Yountville’s Winterscape provides a range of holiday entertainment including carolers, horse-drawn carriage rides, food and wine events and a visit with Santa. www.Yountville.com




CALISTOGA TRACTOR PARADE (DEC. 1, 2012) - The 17th Annual Calistoga Lighted Tractor Parade is the ultimate small-town holiday experience. Vintage and modern tractors, antique trucks and construction equipment bedecked with dazzling lights roll down Calistoga’s scenic main street to celebrate the season and the city’s agricultural heritage in the most Calistoga way. This popular and charming Napa Valley event gets bigger and better every year and is perfect for the whole family. Local merchants stay open late for holiday shopping and offer spiced cider, Christmas cookies and other sweet treats. www.CalistogaVisitors.com 




NAPA’S HOLIDAY HISTORIC B&B TOUR AND TASTE EVENT (DEC. 1, 2012) - Featuring food and wine pairings from the City of Napa’s premiere chefs and wine makers, each of the 12 historic Napa inns pull out all the stops for the holidays, with festive lights and entertainment – live music, choral ensembles, pastry demonstrations and even mini massages. Buses and shuttles provide complimentary transportation between inns, and tickets include food, wine and access to all B&B tours. www.NapaHolidayTour.com




THE TWELVE DAYS OF CHRISTMAS AT MEADOWOOD (2 weeks in December 2012) - Guests are invited to attend Meadowood’s signature holiday culinary extravaganza as a dozen of the country’s most renowned chefs collaborate with 12 of Napa Valley’s preeminent vintners to present holiday feasts on 12 festive December evenings. Along with Christopher Kostow, Chef at The Restaurant at Meadowood – which has earned a Michelin Three-Star rating– the events feature cuisine from world-celebrated chefs and Napa Valley vintners. www.meadowood.com




NAPA VALLEY RESTAURANT MONTH™ (JAN. 1-31, 2013) - Throughout January, the Napa Valley offers unique dining opportunities and special menus at some of the region’s most notable restaurants. These special dining opportunities offer new ways for culinary adventures to access Napa Valley’s acclaimed dining scene. www.legendarynapavalley.com




NAPA TRUFFLE FESTIVAL (JAN. 18-21, 2013) - A celebration of food, wine and truffles, the third annual Napa Truffle Festival is presented once again by the American Truffle Company featuring a unique gathering of leading truffle cultivation experts and scientists, along with internationally renowned Michelin-star chefs and special guests from the food and wine world. Events include Michelin Star dining experiences, cultivation and culinary seminars, cooking classes, a truffle orchard tour excursion and an epicurean marketplace. www.napatrufflefestival.com 





A full calendar can be found online at www.legendarynapavalley.com, along with seasonal packages and offers from Napa Valley’s resorts, B&Bs and inns.













Filed under: Napa Valley, travel, travel planning, wine Tagged: events, luxury, Napa Valley, wine

Travel Guest Post: Shore Hotel Family Getaway Package

Shore Hotel (Photo credit: Ryan Gobuty)

Shore Hotel invites families to take advantage of the sunny Santa Monica locale this summer with the “Surf and Sun” package. Let Southern California’s surfing experts teach the whole family the basics of catching waves along the California coast—from paddling over the break to balancing on the nose, surf pros will get the family hanging ten before the vacation is over. Blue Plate Taco, the hotel’s in-house restaurant will create a picnic lunch to take to the beach or enjoy at the restaurant after a long day in the sun. The “Surf and Sun” package accommodates a family of four and includes:

·         Overnight accommodations
·         Picnic lunch from Blue Plate Taco, to enjoy on the beach or in the restaurant
·         Two hour surf lesson at nearby Santa Monica beach

Shore Hotel’s “Surf and Sun” package is available July 1 – September 31, 2012 and must be booked 72-hours in advance. Guests who wish to book the “Surf and Sun” package can visit Shore Hotel’s website or call reservations at 800.599.1515.

Shore Hotel, the new oceanfront Gold LEED certified hotel in Santa Monica, California, on Ocean Avenue, affords guests stunning, unobstructed views of the Pacific Ocean and an abundance of beachside amenities including outdoor pool and deck.  Ideal for families, Shore Hotel is in near to a variety of Santa Monica restaurants, and attractions including the Santa Monica Place shopping center and Santa Monica Pier.

 

Filed under: california, travel, travel planning Tagged: california, shore hotel

Travel Guest Post: Bareboat Charters

Bareboat chartering is an increasingly popular activity but some are puzzled by the term. If you are not familiar with hiring a boat then it can lead to some confusion but in reality it is very straightforward.

Essentially when you arrange this kind of charter all you are renting is the boat itself. There is no crew so you have to skipper yourself. There are no provisions either, so you can basically please yourself when it comes to catering and entertainment.

Clearly there are huge advantages to bareboat chartering but this isn’t an arrangement that you should enter into unless you have specific experience of crewing and navigating a vessel. If, however, you are comfortable with these things then there are some amazing benefits.

Freedom

The main advantage is obviously that you have a lot of freedom: You and your passengers and crew are in charge and you can go wherever you want within reason. You can drop anchor and stop off anywhere and provide your own entertainment and provisions.

This style of yacht charter is particularly enjoyable if you’re looking to explore a certain region – maybe the Greek Islands where you can navigate around and visit as many places as your time limit allows. However, if you are thinking about a bareboat charter, then you should prepare yourself with as much information as possible before you make the booking.

What to Consider

There is no crew and no provisions and that means there is no fuel as well. You should therefore think about where to buy fuel when you collect the boat and when you sail and dock.There is no protection and indemnity or hull insurance either, so you will have to have this in place in order to take charge of the vessel. Another major consideration is port expenses, which will need to be taken care of everywhere you dock.

The message therefore is to take all of these financial factors into account and to not assume that your monetary outlay begins and ends with the yacht charter contract. Make sure you can comfortably cover all of the additional expenses before you sign up.

Plan Your Trip

Planning is key to everything and bareboat chartering is no exception. One of the most important elements is in knowing where you’re going. While that may sound obvious, this is a vital part of your trip. There are horror stories of pleasure boats crossing international waters and facing dire consequences. These are thankfully rare, but you must be certain of your route and navigation.

Proving Your Competence

It’s important to understand that you are unlikely to be allowed to an arrangement of this kind if you have no previous experience of sailing a vessel. Prior to hiring you will likely be asked to send details of your sailing experience for the boat owner to consider. You may also be asked to show some very basic skills in anchoring and docking and if the owner isn’t satisfied then he or she may assign a captain, at least for the start of your journey. If you have the relevant experience, however, then this won’t be a problem and once you have demonstrated your competence the hire will be agreed. From there, you have all the freedom and benefits that this form of innovative rental has to offer.

Author: Ricky writes regularly on sailing and bareboat charter options for a range of travel and holiday blogs and websites.

Filed under: adventure, cruise, guest post, travel, travel planning, travel tips Tagged: boating, cruise, luxury, rental

Travel Guest Post: Top 5 Tandem Skydive Destinations

Hurling yourself out of a plane (strapped to an instructor who knows what they’re doing) from a great height is going to be thrilling anywhere you do it. But there are some places that are just, well, better.

Here are 5 of the greatest tandem skydiving destinations in the world.

Wollongong, Sydney, Australia

If the quality of a tandem skydive destination lies in the scenery, Wollongong has it in spades.

Taking in both the Australian coastline and Sydney itself, this 14,000ft drop lets you see some of the most beautiful scenery in the world – complete with whales and dolphins, as well as one of the greatest modern cities in the world. Plus there are student discounts.

Victoria Falls, Zambia

Victoria Falls is the highest waterfall on Earth and is often called one of the seven natural wonders of the world. A tandem skydive here gives you a beautiful aerial view of the falls as well as the Zambezi River and all the local wildlife. If you’ve ever wanted to see the Victoria Falls and its surroundings, skydiving is the way to see it all at once.

 

Lincoln, England

 The Lincolnshire countryside may not be as glamorous as other places on this list, but being British we can’t help getting a little misty-eyed at the thought of seeing so much English countryside all at once. And besides, at 15,000ft (the highest tandem skydive in the UK) the scenery may not be as exotic, but your time in the sky is longer than most skydives.

 

Interlaken, Swiss Alps

If you want to see the snow-capped mountains from up high before global warming gets them, but you don’t fancy yourself as much of a mountain climber, then this skydive over Interlaken is the way to go. After a 12-15 minute flight that lets you take in one of the most famous mountain ranges in the world from the safety of the plane, you’ll drop over two crystal clear lakes past some of the snowiest peaks planet Earth has left to offer.

 

Kamchatka Peninsula, Russia

 For real adrenaline junkies only, skydiving in the Kamchatka Peninsula was made famous by Valery Rozov’s stunt for Red Bull (google ‘Russian skydives into active volcano’). You won’t skydive into the volcano, but it may be steaming while you go past it.

Definitely not one for beginners, more something to aim for if you catch the skydiving bug.

Author: Rebecca Hall is resident copywriter and tandem skydive enthusiast at Exelement.

Filed under: adventure, travel, travel planning, travel tips Tagged: adventure, australia, sky dive, turkey

Travel Guest Post: Excess International

As someone who’s never been abroad, I can tell you that I’m feeling pretty excited about my upcoming holiday to Italy. It won’t be happening until October (we’re saving on costs by going out of season) and we’ll only be staying for three nights, but I can’t wait. I’ve already started doing my holiday shopping – new clothes, shoes, accessories, Italian travel guides, Italian language books and, last but not least, a new suitcase.

I went to a specialist luggage store to buy my new suitcase and I can truthfully tell you now that I never imagined there’d be so many different kinds of suitcases available. I felt a bit out of my depth but eventually managed to come to a decision, but not before quizzing the sales guy about the pros and cons of each suitcase.

1)     Wheeled suitcases

These suitcases are probably the kind you’re most familiar with these days. In the past suitcases could be quite cumbersome, having hinges on the bottom and locking mechanisms on the top to allow them to be opened when laid flat. They were carried by a simple handle and had no wheels. However, today things are a very different story. You can get suitcases with pull handles and wheels to make moving them around a lot easier and you can get them in tough metal or thick plastic that will protect your belongings and help with keeping its shape.

2)     Holdall

This kind of suitcase is usually deceptively spacious and is perfect for short breaks. You can pack a fair few changes of clothes into it and it’s carried by two straps. When you aren’t using your hold all you can easily just scrunch it up to stuff at the back of your wardrobe, since they don’t have any immovable inserts or parts.

3)     Wheeled travel bags

These ingenious suitcases are essentially a holdall with wheels and a pull handle, making them ideal for when you’ve packed yours with heavy items and you can’t quite manage to carry it on your own.

4)     Carry-on luggage

If you’ll be flying to your holiday destination it can be a good idea to get yourself some carry-on luggage, either as part of a luggage set or on its own. They’re usually smaller than average suitcases and you’re allowed to take them onto the plane with you, so if you want to keep some essentials with you they’re perfect.

5)     Luggage trunk

The luggage trunk certainly wasn’t my luggage item of choice and it isn’t used very often anymore. In the past, you’d be sent off with one of these trunks if you went to boarding school or were planning an extended trip abroad since they’re especially sturdy. Nowadays, you’ll most often find them being used as blanket chests or coffee tables in people’s houses though.

What style would you pick for your holiday?

Author: Post contributed for Excess International by Charlotte Watson. Charlotte is a regular contributor to numerous luxury travel sites. She also specializes in Removals to Australia and International removals.

 

Filed under: travel Tagged: baggage, luggage, travel

Travel Guest Post: Top 5 Holiday Destinations in France

 

France offers extensive options as a holiday destination. From the glamour and the diversity of Paris to coastal and inland scenery, France has something for every traveller, and features some of the best boutique accommodation and culinary options in mainland Europe, if not the world. While it is difficult to get away from Paris as a primary destination, travellers should also consider exploring some of the other parts of France. The following list represents, in no particular order, some of the top five holiday destinations for France:

1 – Paris

The first choice for most travellers, Paris offers multiple must see appeals. While it’s always worth visiting the Eiffel Tower, the Champs Elysee and the Louvre, visitors should also consider the more bohemian Left Bank and the Latin Quarter by the Seine, as well as areas like Montmatre. A trip into the catacombs is also recommended for more adventurous travellers, while the Musee D’Orsay represents an excellent alternative, or complementary option to the Louvre. Paris is also the best choice for travellers wanting to use the city as a hub for connecting to other parts of France.

 

2 – Mont St Michel

A Gothic hilltop village on a tidal island in Normandy, Mont St Michel is one of the most distinctive locations in France. A short trip from the city of Caen, Mont St Michel developed around an ancient Abbey, and still retains its medieval feel for visitors. Accessible by foot and home to a winding strip of small shops, hotels and restaurants, Mont St Michel is ideal for a day trip, or for those wanting to sample some of its boutique accommodation options.

 

3 – Giverny

A riverside resort in Normandy, the small village of Giverny is most well-known for its associations with the Impressionist painter Monet. The picturesque village features Monet’s own home, as well as museums dedicated to Impressionism. Other cultural sites include the Natural Mechanical Museum, while the village itself offers affordable accommodation and excellent dining and walks.

 

4 – Provence

One of the most beautiful regions in France, Provence is home to both the Alpes Maritimes and the Hautes-Alpes mountain ranges, as well as the attractive low-lying Bouches du Rhone region, and the walled medieval city of Avignon. Part of the French Riviera, Provence also includes the thriving cities of Nice and Cannes. Ideal for visitors wanting to experience the diversity of the city and the calm of the countryside and mountains, Provence is also recommended for its skiing, hiking, food and wine.

 

5 – Nice

One of the best cities to visit in France, the Riviera destination of Nice combines Mediterranean beaches with ancient castles and the Vieux Nice old town, as well as culture through the Museum of Asian Art and the Musee Matisse, to name just a few. Easily reached from the rest of the country, Nice is a good destination for travellers along the Riviera, and adjoins a number of small villages and the imposing Mont Boron, which offers excellent views over the city and the sea.

Filed under: adventure, france, guest post, holiday, luxury, travel, travel planning, travel tips Tagged: france, nice, paris, travel

Lifestyle Guest Post: The History of Tea

Tea Through the Ages  

Tea is a comfort, a morning pick-me-up, an evening stress reducer and a cultural touchstone. It’s been touted for its health benefits and turned into a modern-day wonder drug. Tea is the second most popular drink in the world, behind only water. It has played a role in many events throughout history as a commodity and as a beverage.

Beginnings in China

According to Chinese legend tea was invented by the Chinese Emperor Shen Nong in 2737 B.C. As with many great inventions its invention was an accident. Emperor Shen Nong was a herbalist and a scientist who believed that drinking boiled water was a staple of a healthy life. By his decree all of his subjects were required to boil their drinking water. On a visit to one of the distant regions of his empire he and his entourage stopped to rest. While his servants boiled water for him a few leaves fell into the pot.

The emperor decided to taste the aromatic brew and declared it both tasteful and invigorating. From that point on tea spread as a medicinal beverage that gave strength and vigor to the body. It would be almost 2500 years before the drink became a part of daily life though.

Spread to Europe

Tea didn’t spread to Europe until the 17th century, and didn’t become a part of daily life until the 18th century, but once it caught on it REALLY caught on and became one of the largest imports from the East. This made it one of the staple commodities of the East India Company, who were not only granted a monopoly, but the power to do almost anything that they wanted.

You may remember the East India Company as the comically evil antagonist from the second  Pirates of the Carribean movie. Let’s just say that that movie toned down the nastiness of the EIC. You have them to thank for the English control of India, opium wars and all kinds of piracy, ransoms and skirmishes. They were also instrumental in bringing tea to the Americas, and providing sugar for that tea in the slave trade.

The American Revolution

The Boston Tea Party gets much more weight in history than it’s really due because it’s a darn good story. As the English try to squeeze more and more money out of the colonists with more taxes on certain goods, one of their targets is tea, one of the few comforts of jolly old England available to the Americans. In a fit of piqué a few Bostonians raided a British ship and dumped an entire load of tea into the harbor sending the message that they would rather go without than submit to further taxes.

Why Does Tea Matter?

To coffee drinkers this may not mean much, but tea has spawned cultural significance all across the world. China, Japan and India have elaborate tea ceremonies so complex that a person can spend their entire lives perfecting them. In the Western world offering tea and snacks is an important part of hospitality. Tea sets remain valuable heirlooms to many families.

As modern science has turned its eye to tea ancient claims of health benefits have been borne out. It’s full of anti-oxidants and has shown efficacy against cancer. People with a regular intake of tea are more likely to have healthy digestion and are less likely to decline mentally in old age. It also has caffeine for a more immediate boost of energy and good feelings.

It’s incredibly simple. Brew a cup, put your face in the steam and it will all become clear.

Author: Renee Varney is a freelance blogger and occasionally writes for delivery.com a site she loves using to find local Food Delivery Online – particularly Chinese Delivery.

 

 

Filed under: travel Tagged: history, lifestyle, tea

Travel Guest Post: Luxury Ski Destinations

Whistler

Located in British Columbia, Canada, Whistler has over 200 trails with runs suitable for all abilities. It was the location of the 2010 Winter Olympics and Paralympic games. Whistler is also one of the most environmentally friendly ski resorts with aims to continually reduce its carbon footprint.

Vail

The second largest ski resort in North America opened in 1962. It has 193 marked trails and is suitable for all skiers, from beginners to the expert. There is a shuttle bus that runs to the town every 5 minutes at peak season and every 15 during low season. Cheap ski deals can be arranged throughout the year.

Bansko

The premier ski resort in Bulgaria is the hugely popular Bansko. Over the last few years a massive amount of investment money has turned the relatively quiet and unknown ski resort into one that is growing at a rate of knots.  Popular with skiers of all abilities and snowboarders alike, Bansko looks set to become one of Europe’s front most Ski Resorts and is a great place to find cheap ski deals.

Lech

What started off as a barely accessible village is now one of the most picturesque ski resorts in Austria. The number of skiers per day is limited, and warning signs let potential skiers know when this number is reached via signposts outside of the village. This gives the resort an air of exclusivity, but it helps to ensure each skier has plenty of space on the slopes.

Breckenridge

The US’s highest ski resort is located in Colorado. The resort town dates back to the mid-1800s. There are over 150 ski runs and is suitable for skiers of all abilities. Not as well-known as its neighbour, Vail, this helps it remain a more relaxed, less crowded resort.

Klosters

The Swiss ski resort of Klosters is very popular with royalty; Price Charles visits regularly. Private lessons are available for beginners, there are several cross country trails and snowboarders can also find a place to enjoy their sport.

Cortina d’Ampezzo

One of Italy’s premier ski resorts overs a wide area and incorporates 51 slopes. Just under half of the slopes are suitable for beginners, while around 10% of the slopes are for the most experienced skier. It is a great place for skiers of all abilities and cheap ski deals can be found even during peak season.

Val d’Isère

Located in France, just a stone’s throw from the Italian border, Val d’Isere is the home to ski championship tournaments. It is very popular and therefore can become crowded and has runs that can be used all year round. Transport to a variety of different parts of the resort makes this one of the most accessible ski resorts available.

Banff

Located in the Canadian Rockies, Banff has plenty of stunning scenery and breath-taking views. From nursery slopes to black runs, Banff has plenty to offer all levels of expertise. Banff is also popular with snowboarders and there are several runs suitable for board use.

Chamonix

Home of the first winter Olympics, Chamonix is located in France’s Rhône-Alps region. It remains one of the most popular and well-known ski resorts worldwide. The resort has over 150km of ski runs and there are runs for all levels of expertise. Some of the trails can only be used seasonally however.

Filed under: adventure, guest post, holiday, luxury, ski, travel Tagged: luxury, ski, whistler