Kimberly Fisher's Blog, page 230
November 21, 2011
Travel Guest Post: Three Experiences not to missed in Turkey
What immediately springs to mind when someone mentions Turkey? Lazing by the beach at one of the top seaside resorts? Getting crushed in the crowds in Istanbul? Eating some unusual food in a local restaurant? Whatever conjures up in your mind, Turkey is so vast and full of adventure that it is possible to go and explore to your heart's content without too much effort.
However, if you do get the opportunity to visit this wonderful country and you want to make sure you get the most out of it, try and experience at least one unique experience. Do so and you will not be disappointed.
Get Hot and Steamy in Istanbul
You will no doubt have heard all about Turkish baths. It may be a bit unsurprising and blindingly obvious, but the best and most authentic baths are located in Turkey itself and a holiday here should not pass without experiencing them first hand. These baths are known locally as hammams, and a visit will involve you changing into a cotton wrap and slippers before you are cleaned, steamed and massaged like never before. You may struggle to communicate to the attendants what exactly it is you want, but just go with the flow and you'll never forget it, that's a promise!
Seafood Delight in Ankara
Have you noticed how destinations that are close to the sea often have amazing seafood? It is hardly surprising – after all, restaurants are delivered the freshest catches and they can instantly turn them into wonderfully creative dishes. But just because a city or restaurant is located inland does not mean that they do not have access to the best and freshest seafood – something that many restaurants in Ankara prove. Kalbur is one such establishment where seafood reigns supreme, so much so that many say it is one of the best seafood restaurants in the city and indeed the whole of Turkey itself. Take a stroll through Ankara and experience as many local seafood dishes you can. It really will leave a lasting impression and have you trying to recreate them when you get back home!
Scuba Diving in Bodrum
Are you an experienced diver who loves to explore new sites in warm, crystal clear waters? Or are you someone who has always wanted to experience the depths but never had the opportunity? Whatever your experience, head to the Turkish city of Bodrum which sits next to the Aegean Sea. Hot springs, caverns and reefs are some of the dive sites you could end up exploring, and such is the history of the area that you should expect, or at least hope, to see evidence of ancient civilisations on some dives.
There are few countries in the world that can come close to the modern and ancient feel that Turkey provides. One moment you could be experiencing wonderfully modern cuisines, the next, exploring an ancient shipwreck on a dive. Turkey holidays have it all – it is just a matter of heading to the places that appeal to you and your idea of fun. One thing is for sure, you'll always be able to find something exciting, interesting and unique in Turkey.
Written by Ricky Durrance from Beat the Brochure.
Filed under: adventure, guest post, travel, travel planning, travel tips Tagged: travel, turkey
November 18, 2011
Drinks: Jimador Tequila Cocktails
Are you rooting for the LA Galaxy or the Houston Dynamo during the MLS Cup this Saturday? To help you celebrate during the big game, enjoy these deliciously crafted cocktails inspired by the finalists. Below please find two team-inspired el Jimador Tequila cocktails which will be sure to please both LA Galaxy and Houston Dynamo fans alike.
[image error] el Jimador Dynamo Groove Cocktail
Ingredients:
1.5 oz. el Jimador Silver tequila
4 oz. guava juice
½ oz. lime juice
1 tsp. of sugar to taste
Instructions:
Add ingredients to an ice-filled shaker. Shake and pour into a martini glass filled with ice. Garnish with lime wedge and enjoy!
[image error] el Jimador Galaxy Margarita
Ingredients:
1.5 ounces el Jimador Reposado
1 ounce of fresh lemon juice
1 ounce of Monin Habanero Lime syrup
Instructions:
Shake all ingredients together and serve in a glass with crushed ice. Garnish with lime wheel and roasted red pepper. Enjoy!
Filed under: california, drink
November 17, 2011
Travel Guest Post: Studying Abroad Safety Tips
Many students heading abroad are much more focused on the adventure that awaits them than they are about protecting their safety. This is quite understandable. Student travelers from college campuses often feel invulnerable and may even find some risk taking appealing. Indeed, college life for many students encourages experimentation and reaching beyond comfortable boundaries.
While extending one's comfort zone is essential for personal growth, there must be a reasonable balance so that the new comfort zone does not become a danger zone.
Which of the following unfortunate events are most likely to occur to a student traveling to the developing world?
(a) Yellow fever
(b) Malaria
(c) Accidental injury
(d) Rabies
(e) Hepatitis B
Yes, disease is a serious risk. Travel medicine experts advise various travel vaccinations for students who are bound for Africa, South America, India, China, the Middle East, eastern Europe and other locations to protect them from infectious diseases. Students should consult with a travel medicine expert a few months before departure so that they can discuss their itineraries and travel plans so that the physician can advise which vaccinations are advised. But, disease is not the major threat that students face.
The biggest threat facing students are not from invisible bacteria, viruses and parasites. Accidents and injuries abroad are much more common than vaccine-preventable illnesses. This means that travel vaccinations – while essential – cannot protect students against the greater risks that they face in a foreign country. Moreover, students who are properly vaccinated may enjoy false security that they are 'protected', and may not use prudent judgment when they should. Wearing a seatbelt or a bicycle helmet will not protect against reckless behavior.
Accidents, injuries, property loss, scams and legal difficulties can all be prevented with reasonable dosages of common sense and good judgment. Many times during a foreign excursion, a student will face a choice of whether to proceed ahead or to pause and reassess the situation. The consequences of a bad decision can be very unforgiving abroad in a foreign culture and a continent away from one's familiar support network. Imagine being robbed, hospitalized, swindled, arrested or made pregnant during a semester abroad. Student travelers have suffered all of these outcomes, which could have been avoided. If a meal, an individual, a piece of equipment, a taxicab, a tour guide, an intimate relationship or any other opportunity seems suspect, then students need to put their gears in reverse and accelerate. Be cautious about placing trust in folks whose warm and friendly manner may be camouflaging unscrupulous designs.
When students are packing their backpacks in the morning, they should pack caution and good judgment also. These will protect as much as any medicine or vaccine will.
Scientists are hard at work trying to develop new vaccines against serious diseases. There is no vaccine, however, against bad judgment and irresponsible behavior. Students will have to protect themselves the old fashioned way using common sense.
Travel physicians offer students much more than travel vaccinations. They provide a wealth of practical safety advice to keep students out of harm's way. Consider this to be 'Travel Safety 101', a required prerequisite before any semester abroad.
To Learn more about travel immunizations and travel safety, visit Travel Clinics of America today.
Author: Michael Kirsch, M.D.
Filed under: adventure, travel, travel planning, travel tips Tagged: studying abroad, travel safety
November 5, 2011
Beauty: Winter Skincare Tips
The American Academy of Dermatology (AAD) officially designates November as National Healthy Skin Month, and we have some tips from Dr. Michael Gold, dermatologist/dermasurgeon of Gold Skin Care Center in Nashville, TN, on how to keep skin fresh, hydrated and healthy all year round.
Face washing should be part of everyone's daily skincare regimen. The correct way to ensure that your skin gets the proper cleansing it needs:
Remove makeup to get rid of oil, dirt and debris build up from the day. Dr. Gold's expert pick: Dermalogica Precleanse
Gently cleanse skin with lukewarm water using a nickel-sized amount of face wash. Gently massage it into your skin using circular motions for 30-seconds before rinsing. Finish with a splash of cool water, which will help to close the pores. Dr. Gold's expert pick: Clarisonic Skin Cleansing Brush for optimal cleansing
Exfoliate your skin biweekly to keep your pores clear and complexion radiant. Dr. Gold's expert pick: NIA 24 Physical Cleansing Scrub
Dr. Gold also recommends:
Wearing a moisturizer with a minimum SPF 30 on a daily basis in addition to a sunscreen base to ensure your skin is always protected.
To keep your skin hydrated, especially when traveling, drink plenty of water, avoiding carbonated beverages and alcohol. Carrying a spray water such as the Avene Thermal Spring Water is also a good idea
Lots of shut eye! One of the most important factors affecting your skin is the amount of sleep you get, so make sure you are getting enough rest each night to wake up glowing. Dr. Gold is also an expert when it comes to knowing how to care for skin while traveling (he has over 4.5 million air miles!) Here are his tips for keeping skin glowing even when up in the air:
Although jet lag per se does not affect your skin, traveling itself can. Being at high altitudes in pressurized cabins can dry out skin, causing you to look more wrinkled and dull. Jet lag sleep deprivation can also lead to looking more tired from an increase in puffiness around the eyes.
To help minimize the effects of traveling, Dr. Gold suggests the following tips:
Drink plenty of water during long flights and avoid a great deal of carbonated beverages and alcohol
Use spray water abundantly such as the Avene Thermal Spring Water
Sleep when you can and calculate what time it will be when you land, to adjust to that time as quickly as possible
Dermatologist , Dr. Michael Gold:
Dr. Michael Gold is a board certified dermatologist/dermasurgeon and is the founder of Gold Skin Care Center, Advanced Aesthetics Medi Spa, The Laser and Rejuvenation Center and Tennessee Clinical Research Center located in Nashville, Tennessee. He is the author of over 300 published scientific articles, fifteen textbook chapters and the editor of two textbooks on Photodynamic Therapy and Global PDT. www.goldskincare.com
Filed under: Uncategorized
November 3, 2011
Travel Guest Post: 5 Reasons to Consider Alaska Cruises
When most people look for cruise deals, they often think of warm weather and sunny beaches. Some of the most popular cruise destinations are tropical islands or Florida coastlines. If you're looking at cruises though, you might want to give Alaska a chance, and here are some reasons why:
They offer everything – With an Alaskan cruise you get beautiful scenery, fun excursions, history, culture, shopping, and more. Another advantages is that the port options are usually very convenient for planes and travelling – especially if you already speak English.
Most major cruise lines offer it – You can take your pick of cruise lines. Whether you want Carnival cruises, Princess, Disney or some other line, chances are that they offer an Alaskan cruise. You won't be pigeonholed into choosing a cruise line that isn't for you, and more and more cruise lines are adding Alaska to their itineraries.
You don't have to pay to see wildlife – Though you can pay for additional excursions that will take you to see an eagle preserve or whales, you will most likely be able to see wildlife right from the Lido deck. The captain will usually alert you when there are whales nearby, and Alaska is home to many fascinating breeds like bald eagles, moose, seals and more.
Alaska offers several unique excursions – Rather than laying out on a beach, consider getting active with hiking or kayaking in Alaska. Most other cruise itineraries won't offer these unique tour opportunities, and in Alaska, you can go ice-trekking, dog sledding or view bears and glaciers. These excursions are fun for the whole family, and the kids will love panning for gold.
The glaciers won't be there for long – Global warming is only one of the environmental changes that is diminishing glaciers. Each year, the glaciers recede a little more, so make sure you see them while they are still something to behold. Right now you can see endangered animals like sea lions, otters and whales, but you never know when your next chance will be.
Alaska has a lot to offer the cruise enthusiast, and while it might not have warm beaches, it has a beauty all of its own. If you are looking for something extraordinary, then go out of your way to seek the unusual. You will have a unique vacation experience to tell everyone at home, and you will always have your memories of the cruise to look back on.
About the Author
Kevin W. has been working in the traveling industry for years helping people with Carnival cruises. He enjoys going on vacations with his family to exotic locations around the world.
Filed under: adventure, cruise, travel, travel planning, travel tips Tagged: alaska, cruise [image error]
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November 2, 2011
Books: November Giveaways
Dear Book Lovers:
Looking for the perfect holiday gift for the bookworm in your life or just need a good read for your next international flight? Or maybe just a great book to curl up with on a cold, wintry day? Regal Literary has enough holiday spirit—and books—to go around for everyone! giving away these wonderful titles through the month of November:
Audrey Niffenegger's Her Fearful Symmetry – signed!
Martin Clark's The Legal Limit – signed!
Alex Heard's The Eyes of Willie McGee – signed!
Keith Scribner's The Oregon Experiment – signed!
Isaac Marion's Warm Bodies
Thomas Pletzinger's Funeral For a Dog
Matt Blackstone's A Scary Scene in a Scary Movie
Scott Cohen's Don't You Just Hate That? 738 Annoying Things
Nancey Flowers and Courtney Park's He Was My Man First
Enter to win at http://www.regal-literary.com/contests/winter/ .
Filed under: books Tagged: books, giveaways, reading
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October 31, 2011
Travel: St. Moritz Badrutt's Palace Hotel
Each year mouths begin to water and toes start to tap as Badrutt's Palace Hotel, the Grande Dame of St. Moritz, releases its winter calendar of parties and festivals. The hotel is the ideal destination getaway in either winter or summer with it's unrequited charm and refined luxury. The Palace hotel has 135 guestrooms including 35 suites with stunning views of the Swiss Alps. The hotel is a member of The Leading Hotels of the World, Swiss Deluxe Hotels and Swiss Historic Hotels. Badrutt's Palace Hotel is open for the winter season from December 1, 2011- April 9th, 2011.
Foodies and culture addicts should mark their calendars for these 'must do' events. From the Gourmet Festival to the Snow and Symphony, St. Moritz puts on the 'Ritz' for visitors, while Badrutt's Palace Hotel dazzles guests with its sensational lakeside setting, old-world charm and impeccable service.
Here is a glimpse of this winter's culinary and cultural highlights in St. Moritz:The 19th St. Moritz Gourmet Festival: January 30 – February 3
The St. Moritz Gourmet Festival offers a bounty of culinary delights. Together with the top chefs from St. Moritz's leading hotels, international star chefs from three continents pamper the palates of their gourmet guests.
Gourmet dinner with Master Chef: January 31 – February 2
Guest Chef Regis Marcon, awarded 3 Michelin Stars, from Saint-Bonnet-le-Froid in France, dazzles guests by creating a five-course menu or an à la carte dinner in Le Restaurant.
St. Moritz Gourmet Festival: January 31 – February 3
Chocolate Cult in Le Grand Hall – Chef Patisser and traditional chocolate house Sprüngli present a buffet of chocolate creations to melt the heart of every guest.
Funky Kitchen Party: February 1
Kicking off at 10.30pm, Badrutt's Palace throws the annual much-anticipated Funky Kitchen Party – in the kitchen, of course, as well as in Le Bistro. Master chefs unfold their creations as guests mingle around steaming saucepans and sizzling frying pans. Savour each dish as it is prepared – accompanied by an appropriate champagne, wine or spirit.
The Great Valser Gourmet Finale: February 3
Celebrate with fine champagne and wines at an altitude of 8,000 feet as the Guest Master Chefs gather round the stove to create a multi-course menu at the closing party on the Alpine world of Corviglia.
Palace Chocolate Cult: February 19
An exhibition and tasting of chocolate creations in Le Grand Hall from 3pm-6pm.
The 6th Art on Ice St. Moritz: February 17
World-class ice ballet held at night on the frozen Lake St. Moritz. A magical winter experience.
Guest Chef Tonino Cannavacciuolo: March 1-4:
Award-winning Italian Guest Chef Tonino Cannavacciuolo, awarded two Michelin Stars, from Villa Crespi, Orta San Giulio, Italy, brings his creative cuisine to Le Relais restaurant at the Palace.
Snow and Symphony: March 9 – 25
The 15th annual St. Moritz Music Festival Week.
Easter Pastry Class: April 4
An afternoon with the Palace Pastry Chef making sweet Easter pastries.
Filed under: adventure, drink, europe, food, holiday, luxury, Uncategorized Tagged: badrut's palace hotel, ski, st moritz, winter
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October 30, 2011
Travel Guest Post: The Arlberg- Austria's Best Snow
The Austrian Alps are blessed with a long and bountiful snow season and it was in these conditions that downhill skiing was born. Winter sports are to the Austrian culture what baseball is to Americans and football is to the English – a way of life. The Arlberg is a world famous ski region frequented by pro skiers and the Jet Set alike the modest, but precise implementation of technologies have allowed the region to accommodate large numbers of skiers every season on hundreds of kilometres of tracks, without sacrificing the intimate and traditional feel of the towns and village resorts that nestle in the mountains. At an altitude of 2200m, snow is almost guaranteed between December and April.
Two of the main districts within Arlberg, Lech and Zürs are renowned for their luxury hotels and ski chalets. The area is also famed generous snowfalls. With 168 miles of prepared slopes and 112 miles of deep snow off-piste runs, a certified mountain guide will take you though the best snow, the most romantic huts and the most beautiful scenery that the region has to offer.
Heliskiing is also popular in Arlberg, offering access to the very best deep powder snow. Flights leave from Lechs and take up to three skiers plus a guide to the Schneetäli or the Mehlsack peaks and the most spectacular mountain views.
90 years ago Ambrose Strolz set up shop in Lech manufacturing custom made ski boots. Today the brand is now world famous and still makes orthopedically precise, 100% handcrafted custom ski boots in Lech.
While Lech and Zürs specialise in high end accommodation that would please the British Royal Family, St. Anton is the heart of the party scene with several bars and clubs for those looking for plenty of Apres in their Skiing.
Bobos on Dorfstrasse is a Mexican restaurant and nightclub. The food is excellent and as the evening progresses, the atmosphere becomes a full-on party.
Kandahar begins the evening as an Indian/Thai restaurant. At around 9pm it becomes a music venue, hosting the best acts in the village. Then, at 2am, it becomes a nightclub, pumping uplifting house from an excellent resident DJ and guest DJ's from around the world.
Mosserweg and Dorfstrasse are St Anton's main haunts for those seeking a late night party on their Austria ski chalet breaks.
Other activities in the Arlberg Region
Skiing and partying are not the only activities available in the Arlberg. Hire a pair of snow shoes and unwind with a walk on one of the snow trails; a perfect antidote to a hectic day on the slopes.
St. Anton and Lech both offer fantastic toboggan runs. Both runs are 4.2km long and illuminated at night, offering fun for both young and old.
If you enjoy climbing, head to Tyrol for some of the best ice climbing in Austria. If you prefer an indoor climb, spend a day at Arl.Rock in St. Anton.
Spas are extremely popular in Europe and the most luxurious in the region is the Aurelio Spa. Part of the Aurelio Hotel in Lech, the day spa offers guests several pools, a fitness centre with personal trainers, a thermal suite and meditation centre complete with open fire.
Author: Simmi Sahn
Filed under: adventure, europe, holiday
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October 29, 2011
Top 10 Restaurants WorldWide
You asked, so here it is. Here are my top 10 favorite restaurants in the world, in no particular order.
1.) La Terrazza- Hotel Splendido, Portifino, Italy
I have never had a better spaghetti, which I still dream about to this day. And the view and service are nothing short of phenomenal.
2.)Harry's Bar- Venice, Italy
A classic, you have to try the original Bellini and beef carpaccio.
3.) Cut- Beverly Hills, CA
A Wolfgang Puck original in the Beverly Wilshire Hotel. Best chicken I have ever had, but nothing on the menu is short of fantastic.
4.)Providence-Los Angeles, CA
Reserved strictly for special occasions, this hidden gem features New England-style seafood. Tasting menu is a must!
5.) Per Se – New York, NY
The mecca of fine dining, everyone must try Thomas Keller's famed red-door restaurant at least once.
6.) Nick San- Cabo San Lucas, Mexico
This hidden gem in a strip mall has been such a great discovery for the many trips back to Cabo. The freshest fish you will ever find in unique sushi combinations. Must try the black and white.
7.)Piero's-Las Vegas, NV
I have loved the old-world Italian dishes and charming tuxedo clad waiters from Piero's forever. A very popular spot with the Las Vegas locals and located off the strip. Must and try: Oso bucco & creamed corn.
8.)Hot and Hot Fish Club, Birmingham, AL
I was enthralled with the upscale Southern menu of shrimp and grits, fried green tomato salad, adult iced tea and exotic fish selections. Every trip back to Alabama I make a stop at Hot and Hot.
9.)Aziza, San Francisco, CA
I was only here once, but remember it being striking different organic food. The chef was kind enough to put together a tasting menu for our large group.
10.)Mama's Fish House Maui, Hawaii
True to the island style, Mama's Fish House serves up exotic, delectable dishes at their gorgeous ocean side location. My favorites: Avocado salad & crab cakes.
Filed under: drink, food, Hawaii, luxury, Mexico, new york, San Francisco, Uncategorized
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