Tastes and Travels Ebook

Travellers will love the new ebook "Tastes and Travels" It combines destination reviews with food culture and recipes.

The destinations cover lots of Caribbean locations (along with a couple of other locations around the world) with a load of information on what to do and what is exciting. Then the book goes onto to the food culture in that destination...and gives great-tasting recipes for you to try at home!

There are even some general articles on cruising and travel tips, as well as articles on cooking tips.

Would you like to learn about Jamaica? How about the Cayman Islands? Or how about Panama? Would you like to find out about Italian cuisine and then find recipes like Italian Wedding Soup or Stuffed Eggplant? Would you like to know how to make Curry Goat or Cuban Pork with Mango Salsa (from Cuba)? Would like to learn travel tips like "Purchasing Art on Vacation" or "Travelling with Kids"? All this is found in this new ebook...and much more!

This 115 page ebook is easy to read and makes it fun to discover new places. Priced at only $3.99, if you love to learn about travel, the book will provide you with a lot of information.

Tastes and Travels Ebook It offers reviews on various travel destinations and has articles on the cuisine of each place (as well as recipes that you can try).

Travel to Roatan, Honduras

Roatan is the largest and most developed of the three Caribbean islands that make up Honduras, Central America. It is a simply idyllic paradise with turquoise clear waters, various sand beaches and clear blue skies that makes an ideal vacation spot.

Roatan Island is only four miles wide and thirty-three miles long. It has a paved road running down 75% of the length of the island that leads to the various beaches, destinations and attractions that the island offers. The fantastic landscapes that the vacationer can enjoy while traveling down the highway is truly impressive.

The island is surrounded by an impressive coral reef that is considered one of the largest in the world, which is part of the large Meso-American Barrier Reef. Travelers can enjoy the marvelous underwater world with snorkeling and scuba diving, or by taking a tour on a glass-bottom boat or riding in a mini-sub. Viewing the marine life and old shipwrecks found in the reef environment is not to be missed.

The capital city of Roatan is Coxen Hole, where visitors would arrive via the sailing port or international airport, but it is not the main tourist centre of the island. French Harbor, which is the second most important town in Roatan hosts the most recognized restaurants and has great shopping, nightlife and hotels.

West End, located on the western side of the island, is one of the tourist spots to see with beautiful beaches, restaurants, hotels and attractions for tourists. Here the visitor can rent a motorcycle to tour the island, take a kayak to paddle among the ocean waves, shop in the many souvenir shops, or dance the night away in the lively nightlife activities.

West Bay offers its own beautiful beaches with calm, peaceful waters and glittering white sands. This three-mile long stretch of white sand is considered one of the prettiest in all Honduras. Sandy Bay has beach hotels and restaurants for the sun-loving tourists, as well as a research centre, The Institute of Marine Sciences, to explore. The tourist visiting this area can enjoy a dolphin show, windsurfing or even just relax with a soothing spa treatment.

A vacationer to Roatan could enjoy learning about the Garifuna people who first settled the island in 1797. Every year on November 12th an exciting festival is held to celebrate the event. A visit to Politilly Bay in Punta Gorda is a great attraction to enjoy with dancing and music of the Garifuna culture.

Oak Ridge, and Afro-Antillean community, is very picturesque and is known for its tradition of building houses on the water. Local tours include water taxis to the mangrove swamps so vacationers can view the wildlife.

Paya Bay in Roatan is perhaps the most visited place for a Roatan Island vacation. It is close to Oak Ridge and is known for its white sand beaches and sparkling clear waters.

A ferry that connects Roatan to the mainland of Honduras runs twice daily allowing the visitor more sightseeing options. Roatan also has a recently completed dock capable of docking large cruise ships.

With the spectacular white sand beaches and the majestic reef surrounding this island, Roatan makes for a great vacation spot.

If you would like a chance to learn a little more about various countries and their unique cuisines, why not try my new Ebook: Tastes and Travels Ebook It offers reviews on various travel destinations and has articles on the cuisine of each place (as well as recipes that you can try).

The Attractions of Turks & Caicos

The Turks and Caicos Islands are situated approximately 575 miles southeast of Miami and 39 miles south east of Mayaguana in the Bahamas. Turks and Caicos Islands have one of the longest coral reefs in the world, making it a very desirable diving destination.

The white sandy beaches cover 230 miles in total and are surrounded by crystal clear waters. The islands are relatively flat but depending on the island, the terrain can vary from sand dunes to lush green vegetation. There are eight major islands: Salt Cay, Grand Turk, South Caicos, East Caicos, Middle Caicos, North Caicos, Providenciales and West Caicos. The people on the islands are known for their friendliness. East Caicos and West Caicos are uninhabited.

Turks and Caicos gets its main revenue from the tourist industry. The fishing industry also continues throughout Turks and Caicos. On the islands of Providenciales and Grand Turk you will find International style hotel accommodations, each one has its own unique set up and surroundings. Native dishes are served along with international cuisine, you will find this at most of the restaurants. More casual and serene accommodations can be found on the other islands and smaller cays.

Grand Turk is the capital of Turks and Caicos and the financial center of the islands. It has the second largest population of around 3,720 people. Grand Turk is one of the main historical points of Turks and Caicos. There are many old buildings and ruins, along with The Turks and Caicos National Museum. Grand Turk's main attraction is diving, with many dive operators and schools. It caters to novice snorkelers and experienced divers alike and the major income for the island is dive-orientated tourism with the island’s outstanding protected coral reef.

Located on Grand Turk, Cockburn Town is the administrative capital and the historic and cultural center of the islands. It was believed to be where Columbus landed during his discovery of the New World in 1492. One can tour the town itself on a walking tour. Bermudan style architecture representative of the salt era of the 18th and 19th century line Duke and Font Streets. Two of these buildings are now popular inns. Other buildings make up the governor's residence, other government offices, the public library, churches and private residences and fraternities.

A popular tourist spot to visit is the Turks and Caicos National Museum where a central exhibit tells the story of the Molasses Reef Wreck, the oldest European shipwreck discovered in the Western Hemisphere (dated around 1505). The museum also outlines the rich cultural and natural diversity of the islands. Other historic sites include the Lighthouse which offers a spectacular view of the island, the prison, Fire Hill and the Hawks Nest Anchorage. It is well worth hiring a taxi and driver/guide to tour the island to give you first-hand information on the history and places to see.

Another interesting attraction we witnessed during our tour was an abundance of feral horses and donkeys inhabiting the island, roaming free.

Providenciales, or more commonly called "Provo", covers an area of 38 miles and is the most developed island in Turks and Caicos. Provo, with a population of over 6,000is found on the west side of the islands and offers all modern conveniences, including superb hotels, a casino and a Golf Club. Provo is considered a great destination for those who want to escape their busy schedules and relax. Provo has the largest non-native population made up of Haitians, Dominicans, Canadians, Germans, French and Americans. The growing population is mainly due to the completion of the airport in 1984, which is capable of dealing with large planes.

The most beautiful beaches are found on the north of the island, near Sapodilla Bay, along with a long coral reef rich in aquatic life. Towards the south of the island, Chalk Sound, offers a large lake with striking turquoise water and an array of small cays. South Dock found east of Sapodilla Bay is the island's commercial port and has the capability to deal with containerized goods.

The two main and oldest settlements on Provo Island are Bight and Blue Hills, both of which have a real Caribbean feeling. Provo shops offer a good range of boutiques at Turtle Cove and downtown one can find a range of retail shops, business offices and travel agents. Provo is the main island for hotels and resorts, with many accommodation and recreational facilities options available.

A great attraction to the islands is the varied and bountiful wildlife and sea creatures they offer. The islands are arranged around the edges of two large limestone plateaus called the Turks Bank, that has deep offshore waters which serve as major transit points for Humpback Whales, spotted Eagle Rays, Manta Rays and Turtles. From late December through April, it is believed that as many as 2,500 Humpback Whales pass through the shores on their annual migration to the Mouchoir Bank. During the summer, divers may encounter many Manta Rays cruising the face of the walls, and encounters with dolphins are not uncommon.

Bordering the edges of the islands are lines of coral reefs and some of the most impressive walls of coral in the Caribbean. From the legendary walls of Grand Turk, West Caicos and Provo's Northwest Point to the historic wrecks south of Salt Cay, a dozen world class walls have become important for the serious diver.

The same rich waters are used by anglers fishing for Tuna, Wahoo and Blue Marlin. Also, the salt ponds and inland marshes serve as excellent feeding grounds for resident and migratory birds. One can be on the lookout for Great Blue Herons, Flamingos, Osprey, Pelicans, Egrets, Terns, Frigates, Boobies and other water birds. As part of the National Parks system more than twelve small cays have been set aside and protected for breeding grounds.

On some of the less disturbed and smaller islands of Little Water Cay or Great Sand Cay one can find the Turks island Iguana, which is endangered and delicate. It thrives on these deserted islands, away from the influence of man. These islands are also protected by the National Parks system.

If you would like a chance to learn a little more about various countries and their unique cuisines, why not try my new Ebook: Tastes and Travels Ebook It offers reviews on various travel destinations and has articles on the cuisine of each place (as well as recipes that you can try).

A beach vacation to the Turks and Caicos Islands would truly be a memorable experience. It would be wonderful to visit each island, but even if you were only able to see one, the beauty and pristine beaches would make it a worthwhile vacation.

Thai Cooking

Since this blog is about food as well as travel, I thought you might like to know a little about some international cuisines. This article is about Thai food.

If you would like a chance to learn a little more about various countries and their unique cuisines, why not try my new Ebook: Tastes and Travels Ebook It offers reviews on various travel destinations and has articles on the cuisine of each place (as well as recipes that you can try).

Thai cuisines, or the cooking of Thailand, is know for its balance of five primary flavors served in a meal, either in each dish or overall. These consist of hot and spicy, sweet, sour, salty and bitter. Thai cuisine is made up from the four major regions in the country, the Northern Region, the Northeastern (or Isan), the Central Region, and the Southern Region. Each provides its own elements to Thai cuisine. For example, southern curries typically contain coconut milk and turmeric, while dishes from the Northeastern areas often contain lime juice.

Rice is a staple of Thai cuisine, as in most other Asian cooking. The jasmine rice popular all over the world today is indigenous to Thailand. A typical Thai meal is composed of a single dish or rice served with other complementary dishes at the same time. Steamed rice is served with aromatic curries, stir-fries, or other spicy dishes with chilies, lime, and lemon grass. Sticky rice, which is a unique variety of rice that contains starches that cause it to have a sticky texture, is also often served. Common Thai dishes may also include noodles which are typically served in a single dish or as a noodle soup.

Chopsticks are rarely used in Thai cuisine, and the food is generally eaten with a fork and a spoon. The people in the North and Northeast regions of Thailand typically eat sticky rice with their hands, making it into balls and dipping them in the side dishes served with the meal. Only the right hands are used to eat with.
Fresh, rather than dried, herbs and spices are typically used in Thai cuisine. The spicy condiments served with the main dishes can include dried chili pieces or sliced chili peppers soaked in rice vinegar, or other spicy sauces. Fish sauce can also be a major component in many dishes. It is very aromatic and strong tasting. As well, shrimp paste is also often used. It is made up of a combination of ground shrimp and salt.

In the South and Central regions, Thai dishes are often made with lime leaves, which add its characteristic flavor to nearly every Thai soup or curry. Garlic, galangal (an ingredient related to ginger with a soapy, earthy aroma and pine-like citrus-y flavor), lemon grass, turmeric and gingerroot are also frequent additions, as well as fresh Thai basil. A variety of spices and chilies are common elements in nearly every Thai dish.

Although common broccoli is often seen in Thai cooking here, gailan is typically served in traditional Thai dishes. Gailan (or Chinese broccoli) is green with a thick crunchy stem and a large, flat leafy end, which quite resembles a cross between traditional broccoli and cabbage.

Other common ingredients used in Thai cooking are cilantro (or coriander), curry pastes and powders, soy sauce, dried shrimp, five-spice powder, long beans, oyster sauce, Thai pepper, roasted chili paste and rice or tapioca flour. Five-spice powder incorporates the five primary flavors of Thai cuisine listed above and contains cinnamon, powdered cassia buds, powdered star anise and anise seeds, ginger root and ground cloves.

Thai cooking also has some unique offerings with various sauces and what would be considered exotic foods here. The Northern region offers raw beef dishes, fermented fish paste, and deep fried insect larvae. Commonly dishes from the Northeast include insects and giant water bug, or mang dah is popular.

Thai dishes can be quite unique but often are very tasty. There are becoming extremely popular choices throughout the world today.

Choose a Theme Cruise

An interesting way to go when you are choosing to take a cruise is to look for a theme cruise. Theme cruises offer the vacationer the option of indulging in a favorite hobby or sport, or even offer cruises geared to singles or kids. The themes can range from art or cooking to golf, or even special singles cruises. There are many different theme cruises available and the choices are constantly changing.

The cruiser on a theme cruise will be able to increase their knowledge on the particular theme offered. There are usually celebrity or guest speakers that host seminars on the theme, and even sometimes performances by noted entertainers.

The cruise lines typically hold workshops related to the theme as well. For instance, on a photography themed cruise, seminars would be held to advance the photographers knowledge, and then perhaps a workshop on developing photographs may be offered. A music themed cruise could offer a lecture on the history of the style of music, with special performances by celebrity entertainers.

Other activities aboard the ship also deal with the theme offered. A food and wine themed cruise could offer a wine tasting event. An art themed cruise could hold an art auction, or a cruise theme of a noted author could host a book signing event.

Theme cruises often offer guests the chance to meet and interact with special guests or celebrities of the cruise’s theme. Not only would the special guest or celebrity hold lectures, performances or demonstrations, but may also be involved in special luncheons or cocktail parties where they would inter-mingle with the regular cruisers.

Theme cruises also gear shore excursions to the theme of the cruise. For example, an art themed cruise may have excursions to visit famous museums or the home cities of world renowned artists. As another example, a golf themed cruise could offer cruisers the option of golfing at the finest golf courses in the Caribbean. Or a wine themed cruise may offer excursions to visit various vineyards.

Singles theme based cruises offer single travelers the opportunity to meet other single vacationers. Old or young, there are no set age limits on these cruises. Many ships also offer a same-sex room-matching program so that singles can share accommodations (thus saving on the room rate) with like-minded individuals. On these cruises, there are many onboard events geared to help singles meet others, such as cocktail parties, mixers, group excursion, games, and single-mingle dining. Some ship lines even offer onboard single chat sites to help the mingling process.

Other theme cruises can include: Health & Well-Being, geared with physical fitness and a healthy lifestyle in mind; History & Culture, with lectures from historians and related shore excursions to visit historical sites; Music, from Big Band to Up-to-date Pop music—with entertainment to match; Hobby & Sports, which changes regularly and can include various sports, or from photography to doll collecting; or even special event cruises, with a holiday theme of Christmas, Easter, Thanksgiving, etc.

Going on a theme cruise and knowing that the topic presented is high on your interest list is a great way to enjoy a cruise. Theme cruises are very popular and usually sell out quickly.

If you would like a chance to learn a little more about various countries and their unique cuisines, why not try my new Ebook: Tastes and Travels Ebook It offers reviews on various travel destinations and has articles on the cuisine of each place (as well as recipes that you can try). Also included is information on cruising!!

St. Andrew's Golf - Scotland

If you are looking for a bit of golf history, St. Andrews is certainly the first place that comes to mind. St. Andrews is reputed to be the place where the game of golf first evolved. Golf has been played there since approximately 1400 AD and is known throughout the world as “The Home of Golf”. It also seems to be the course where most golf fanatics dream about playing at least once in their lifetime. The course attracts hundreds of thousands of golf visitors from around the world.

The Old Course, which is the oldest golf course in the world, is a public course over common land in St. Andrews, Fife, Scotland. It is held in trust by St. Andrews Links Trust. The Old Course originally had 12 holes with 10 being played both out and in (making it a total of 22 holes). As golf play increased over the years, the first 4 holes (each of which had been played twice) were combined to make 2 holes. This then left a total of 18 holes, which has become today’s standard for golf all over the world.

The Old Course at St. Andrews offers some very unique features. The first is its huge double greens, with 7 of them sharing 2 holes each. The 1st, 9th, 17th and 18th holes have their own greens.

Another unique feature is that the Old Course at St. Andrews can be played in either direction, both clockwise and anticlockwise, although typically today the play is anticlockwise. In order to keep the tradition going, however, clockwise play is permitted at certain times during the year. For example, in 2008 clockwise play was permitted on the first weekend in April on the Friday, Saturday and Sunday.

The Old Course is also closed on Sundays to allow the grass to recover and let the course rest. On some Sundays, the townspeople of St. Andrews use the course as a picnic or park grounds. Generally, the Old Course is only allowed to be played on special occasions, those being: The final day of the Dunhill Links Championship, the final day of The Open Championship, the final day of the St. Andrews Links Trophy event and the final day of the St. Rule Trophy event.

The entire St. Andrews Links Trust is made up of six courses, including the Old Course, and a seventh course is in preparation by the Trust. St. Andrews Links Trust offers 99 holes of golf, two public clubhouses and an extensive golf practice centre. It is the largest golf complex in Europe and is open to anyone.

If you would like a chance to learn a little more about various countries and their unique cuisines, why not try my new Ebook: Tastes and Travels Ebook It offers reviews on various travel destinations and has articles on the cuisine of each place (as well as recipes that you can try).

Travel to Belize

Belize is located in Central America between Guatemala and Mexico, and is on the Caribbean Sea. It is just two hours away from three major US Gateways. It is a tropical location, with a hot and humid climate. It has a rainy season from May to November, and a dry season from February to May. The land is flat and swampy with a coastal plain, with low mountains seen in the south. It is also known as an adventurer’s paradise. It has a diversity of adventure opportunities with over 40% of the country set aside as parks and nature reserves.

Belize is a country of warm, peaceful, pleasant English-speaking people. It has a mixture of tropical forests, majestic mountains, and mysterious Mayan culture. Belize also offers fantastic diving and fishing opportunities for the traveler and boasts the second longest barrier reef in the Western Hemisphere.

What is there to see and do in Belize? Inland the visitor can hike or canoe under the rainforest canopy to see some of the over 500 species of birds that live here. Or they can awe at the stalactites and stalagmites in caves once inhabited by the ancient Mayans. What about discovering the brilliant colors of the sunset from the top of one of the Mayan temples, or taking a refreshing dip and letting the cool water from one of the many waterfalls splash over you?

Belize is well known for its famous barrier reef with its abundance of marine life. It also has three major offshore atolls and numerous mangrove systems (both along the coast and offshore) that harbor many birds, fish, mammals and reptiles. Belize is a favorite destination as a significant marine eco-system for scuba divers, snorkelers, marine biologists and sport fishermen alike.

And, of course, there is the sun, sea and sand that entice the frequent vacationers. The warm climate invites sun-bathing and relaxing on one the islands beautiful beaches. The coastline has over 386 km. of fantastic beaches ideal for sun-lovers and swimming enthusiast. The most popular beach area in Belize is located on Amergris, which is the largest of Belize’s cays or small islands.

Although Belize offers brilliant diving, pristine jungle and nature, along with dramatic historical ruins to visit, the unpaved roads, high prices and lack of infrastructure can make it a difficult place to travel to. Also, although most visits to Belize are trouble-free, violent crime can also be a problem on occasion (mainly in Belize City). Caution and common sense when traveling here is recommended.

Tastes and Travels Ebook It offers reviews on various travel destinations and has articles on the cuisine of each place (as well as recipes that you can try).

Choosing a Family Cruise

Cruising doesn’t have to be just for singles or adults. There are many cruise lines that offer many amenities geared towards families with children, and even some cruise lines (like Disney) that are especially geared to children. In fact, most cruise lines welcome families with children. Cruise ships can be an ideal setting for a family vacation.

Be aware, however, in some cases, traveling with infants or pregnant women may be subject to some restrictions. Some cruise lines may require a physician’s letter to state that the mother-to-be or baby are in good health and fit to travel, or that the pregnancy is not high-risk. Other cruise lines may have age restrictions for infants, or restrictions on the mother’s gestation time. It is best to check the guidelines for the ship you wish to travel on before booking.

Cruising today can offer families a lot of bang for their buck while vacationing. Many ships are designed with kid-friendly facilities and services in mind. Many have supervised activities for children, dedicated children’s areas, children-only swimming pools, and special counselors and babysitting services that allow parents kid-free time for themselves. Some ships even have youth programs for older children, with planned activities to help them meet other children their own age. Some ships even have special age-appropriate discos for traveling youth.

The cruise ships of today have numerous activities aboard that children love. They have swimming pools and water slides, movie theatres, bowling alleys, skating rinks, rock climbing walls, etc. as well as games, craft lessons, and other activities for children. Parents will not find it difficult to keep their children happy and occupied on any cruise ship.

Food aboard a cruise ship is also family and kid-friendly. While parents can enjoy a gourmet filet mignon and a vintage glass of wine, it isn’t hard for a child to find a slice of pizza or a plate of French Fries to munch on. Food variety onboard a ship is indeed vast. And, children can eat as much or as little as they want—good news for a growing young teenager!

There are also special cruise lines that especially cater to children. Disney has a line that provides activities for kids from sun-up to sun-down, with everything to entertain them from craft lessons to magic shows and everything in between. They also offer adult only areas for parents to seek refuge. These areas have adult-only pools or include activities like wine-tasting sessions.

Things to look out for when planning a family cruise? You may need to do a little research, however, as not all ships offer programs for children and youth. Although they may still allow children to cruise, parents may need to be prepared to look after and entertain their own children. Also you should find out about children’s discounts, how many children are allowed in a room with the parents, extra beds, cribs or cots, adjoining cabins, safety and security issues, and ratio of staff members to children. All of these could affect the cruise line you choose.

There are so many activities that children can enjoy aboard ship, and parents can also enjoy their own relaxing kid-free times as well. On the whole, a cruise can be a great way for a family to enjoy their vacation time.

Tastes and Travels Ebook It offers reviews on various travel destinations and has articles on the cuisine of each place (as well as recipes that you can try). It even has a section on cruising!!!

Review of "Tastes and Travels" Ebook

Travellers will love the new ebook "Tastes and Travels" It combines destination reviews with food culture and recipes.

The destinations cover lots of Caribbean locations (along with a couple of other locations around the world) with a load of information on what to do and what is exciting. Then the book goes onto to the food culture in that destination...and gives great-tasting recipes for you to try at home!

There are even some general articles on cruising and travel tips, as well as articles on cooking tips.

Would you like to learn about Jamaica? How about the Cayman Islands? Or how about Panama? Would you like to find out about Italian cuisine and then find recipes like Italian Wedding Soup or Stuffed Eggplant? Would you like to know how to make Curry Goat or Cuban Pork with Mango Salsa (from Cuba)? Would like to learn travel tips like "Purchasing Art on Vacation" or "Travelling with Kids"? All this is found in this new ebook...and much more!

This 115 page ebook is easy to read and makes it fun to discover new places. Priced at only $3.99, if you love to learn about travel, the book will provide you with a lot of information.

Tastes and Travels Ebook It offers reviews on various travel destinations and has articles on the cuisine of each place (as well as recipes that you can try).

Vacation in the Dominican Republic

The Caribbean nation of the Dominican Republic is part of the island of Hispaniola in the Greater Antilles archipelago. Hispaniola lies west of Puerto Rico and east of Cuba. The Dominican Republic makes up the eastern third of Hispaniola, and the nation of Haiti makes up the other part of the island.

For most of its history, the Dominican Republic has experienced political turmoil and unrest and has suffered through many non-representative and tyrannical governments. The present-day nation has moved toward representative democracy.

The island is a classed as tropical maritime with a wet season from May to November. It can also be prone to hurricanes in season, from June to November.

Like its Caribbean neighbors, Dominican Republic is made up of a blend of European colonists, Tainos Indians and Africans. The official language spoken there is Spanish, with Haitian Creole, English, French, German and Italian also heard in varying degrees.

The cuisine of Dominican Republic is made up of a combination of Spanish, Taino and African influences and is similar to that of other Latin American cultures. Lunch is usually the main meal of the day, with chicken, pork or fish being commonly served. Meat or seafood, rice, potatoes or plantains, served with some type of vegetable or salad makes up a typical meal. Sofrito, which is a mix of local herbs and spices, is a common ingredient in many dishes.

One of the main features that draws tourists to Dominican Republic is its fantastic beaches. There are more than 1,000 miles of fine sandy beaches found in this nation with clear warm seas washing up against them. Dominican Republic’s beaches are thought to be among the world’s best. The east coast is lined with super fine white sand beaches, while the beaches of the north are made up of golden sand. In the west in Barahona, the sand is more a grayish color.

Dominican Republic is widely populated with resorts that host a full array of water sports on its many beaches. The east coast beaches consist of Isla Catalina, Isla Saona, Playa Bayaro, Punta Cana, Playa Cominicus and Playa Minitas. Isla Catalina offers one of the best coral reefs in the area for scuba diving and snorkeling. Punta Cana is known for its 30 mile strip of super fine white sand beach and is often referred to as the ‘coconut coast’ due to the many swaying coconut palm trees scattered along its length. Punta Cana is this regions most popular vacation resort area.

The north coast beaches of Cabarete, Playa Cofresi, Playa Dorada, Playa Grande, Playa Punta Rucia and Playa Sosua are great for sunbathing, kite-boarding and wind surfing. In fact, Cabaret is listed as one of the top five kite-boarding and wind surfing areas in the world. Visitors to this area can also enjoy golfing, boogie-boarding, body-surfing and all manner of other sun and water activities.

There are a number of beaches located in the north east of Dominican Republic, with Playa Rincon topping the list. This beach as been ranked as one of the world’s ten best beaches and many consider it to be the most beautiful on the entire island. It is over three miles long, surrounded by coconut and almond trees, with a 2,000 foot mountain located at one end. It is an isolated beach that is accessible by boat.

Where-ever you go in Dominican Republic, the beaches will be the highlight of your stay. With the turquoise waves washing up on the super-fine sandy shores, a fantastic beach vacations surely awaits you here.

If you would like a chance to learn a little more about various countries and their unique cuisines, why not try my new Ebook: Tastes and Travels Ebook It offers reviews on various travel destinations and has articles on the cuisine of each place (as well as recipes that you can try).

Bermuda

With a unique blend of colonial history and African charm, Bermuda has an old-world charm. Being Britain’s oldest colony, British influences dominate the island’s culture. Here you may walk down a street in the City of Hamilton and see a judge in a powdered wig, or witness a bobby directing traffic or stop to watch a cricket match. Or you could find African influences in the reggae music and spicy cuisine.

Although Bermuda seems like one long landmass, it is actually made up of 181 islands, islets and rock formed by lava millions of years ago. Most of the smaller islands are uninhabited, but eight of the larger ones are joined by bridges and one causeway to form what visitors know to be Bermuda. The geographical terrain is made up of low, rolling hills and relatively flat land, with what many believe to be the most exquisite coastline in the Atlantic.

Bermuda is known for its pink sand beaches, which exists in only a few places worldwide. The pink beaches are formed by the colored particles that wash ashore from the tropical coral reefs surrounding the south side of the island. Almost all of the southern shore has the spectacular blushing pink sands, but South Shore Park features the greatest concentration. South Shore Park, a public beachfront area, extends from Warwick Long Bay to Horseshoe Bay, and includes several secluded coves. Many hotels and resorts along this beachfront have private beach oases for their guests.

Bermuda offers an abundance of fish and other marine species for underwater lovers to enjoy. They have everything from anemones to humpback whales that frequent the sparkling clear waters. A vast barrier reef, which is one of the northern-most in the world, is home to an abundance of sea life and corals, and is a rich find for snorkelers and scuba divers alike.

The island offers many things for a tourist to do. For the sun lover, the fantastic beaches offer relaxing public and private sun-bathing, along with spa treatments and have many food and beverage stands. The more active visitor can enjoy body surfing, snorkeling, scuba diving, golfing, or kayaking, just to name a few activities. Exploring more than 400 shipwrecks while diving is a treat for any visitor to Bermuda. In fact, Bermuda is called the “shipwreck capital of the Atlantic”. And divers can also see more than 650 species of fish.

Shopping is also a popular activity for island visitors. Bermuda is well known as an international shopping destination, and there is no sales tax to be paid here—the price you see is the price you pay. Popular items include handcrafted gold trinkets, cedar-wood gifts, and of course, Bermuda shorts.

For those who love sightseeing, Bermuda offers a great deal. Bermuda has more churches per capita than anywhere else. The visitor can see any one of the many ancient forts built by the British, or visit one of the 785 historic houses. There are Botanical Gardens to see, or the Royal Naval Dockyard (an active naval base during the War of 1812), or even a perfumery to visit.

Bermuda also has an abundance of wildlife for the nature lover. Their world-famous bird watching can include 360 different species of birds. There are many nature reserves with exotic flora and fauna, as well as underground caves to explore. A visitor can also splash around with the dolphins at the Bermuda Maritime Museum. They even have a zoo with animals from the Caribbean, Australia, Asia, Madagascar and the Galapagos.

There are art galleries to view, craft studios to shop in, local cinemas, and classical and modern dance and music productions performed throughout the year. The annual Bermuda Festival of the Performing Arts is always popular.

With all that Bermuda has to offer, it is no wonder that it is an extremely popular vacation spot. Imagine sitting on the soft pink coral sands, enjoying the warm breezes that drift across the sparkling waters as the dolphins play and the bountiful fish swim nearby.

If you would like a chance to learn a little more about various countries and their unique cuisines, why not try my new Ebook: Tastes and Travels Ebook It offers reviews on various travel destinations and has articles on the cuisine of each place (as well as recipes that you can try).

Travelling to St. Lucia

If you are planning a Caribbean vacation, St. Lucia is sure to provide a memorable one for you and your family. St. Lucia can provide a wonderful beach vacation with lots of rest and relaxation for adults and a whole lot of excitement and outdoor fun for the children. Many hotels on the island are geared for families and offer special features like kids clubs, special meals for children, and cater to sleeping arrangements with beds and cots (or adjoining rooms) to accommodate families. And the beautiful beach coastline is rimmed with rain-forested mountains making it a fantastic sight to discover.

But, what is there to do in St. Lucia? Well first off, there are the land sports. St. Lucia offers volleyball, basketball and soccer games, between staff and guests, at most hotels. Vacationers can attend soccer, volleyball, basketball, table tennis, running races or swimming tournaments that are regularly offered on the island. Most hotels also offer squash or tennis courts for their guests. And, although the cricket season is from March to August, guests can enjoy the friendly matches held year-round throughout the island. St. Lucia is home to the Beausejour Cricket Grounds which is world renown.

The water sports available on this beautiful island are not to be missed either. Sailors and fishermen will love St. Lucia as it has been described as “an angler’s dream come true.” St. Lucia is home to several species of big game fish and it is not uncommon to bring home a white marlin trophy. There are many companies that provide guests with the enjoyment of deep-sea fishing or yacht charters.

Then there are the beaches…fine white sand beaches lined with gently swaying palm trees beside crystal clear warm waves lapping against them. The clear waters make for excellent snorkeling or diving opportunities. This island is well-known for some of the best underwater dive sites in the Caribbean.

Or how about a different view? Windsurfing, water skiing and para-sailing are also available. Advanced and intermediate windsurfers will enjoy the popular wave sites at Cas en Bas and Vieus Fort, while beginners can try the calmer waters of the west coast. Equipment and instruction are available at most hotels on the island. Para-sailers can be thrilled with an aerial view of this spectacular island as they soar above Rodney Bay.

St. Lucia also offers some voyages of discovery. Vacationers can visit Marigot Bay, a wonderful natural harbor that once provided a hideout for pirate ships. Another popular spot is the Maria Islands Nature Reserve, which are tiny islands located in Southern St. Lucia and are home to rare wildlife and birds. Some species that make this reserve their home exist nowhere else in the world. There is also the Pigeon Island Museum and Interpretive Centre which is a ‘hands-on’ representation of Pigeon Island’s history from the 1800’s.

Another attraction that may be of interest to St. Lucia visitors is whale or turtle watching. St. Lucia is recognized as a major whale watching site and over 20 species of whales are spotted regularly throughout the year, including sperm whales, pilot whales, humpback whales and spinning and spotted dolphins. There are also an abundance of turtles that make St. Lucia their home, and these fascinating creatures are protected by local environmental activists.

St. Lucia received the ‘2000 Ecotourism Award’ for its Heritage Tourism Programme and received the OECS Vacation Paradise Award which makes it one of the top family vacation destinations in the Caribbean.

If you choose to visit St. Lucia, you will not be disappointed. The sensational beaches and the fantastic water activities will be sure to please the entire family, not to mention the many attractions found on the island.

If you would like a chance to learn a little more about various countries and their unique cuisines, why not try my new Ebook: Tastes and Travels Ebook It offers reviews on various travel destinations and has articles on the cuisine of each place (as well as recipes that you can try).

Food and Travel

There's no two ways about it -- food and travel go hand in hand. One of the best things about travelling is new experiences, and that also extends to food. For instance, would you really travel to France without trying out at least one of these famous French restaurants? Or would you travel to Italy and pass up trying real Italian pasta dishes?

Besides, everyone the world over loves to eat. So when you are travelling, one of the best ways to enhance your travel experience is to eat the local foods. Every place you travel will have its own specialities. Every place you visit will have foods you have probably never heard of before and foods that are local that you can't find anywhere else. You may even be surprised that places you think you know will often have new things for you to try that you never heard of before. For example, many people have been to Jamaica, but have you ever tried an 'ugly fruit' or do you know what 'callaloo' is?

Even if you don't like the food that you may be exposed to in new places, at least you will have had a new experience. You can say you tried it. You can come back home knowing that although some new food may not have been completely to your taste, at least you can say you ate it (and brag about it).

New foods, new lands and new experiences. That is the true beauty of travelling.

If you would like a chance to learn a little more about various countries and their unique cuisines, why not try my new Ebook: Tastes and Travels Ebook It offers reviews on various travel destinations and has articles on the cuisine of each place (as well as recipes that you can try).

The Canadian Rockies & Lake Louise

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Canada has a lot to offer in the way of travel destinations. From coast to coast there are new places to visit and new horizons to see. If you travel to Canada, one place you really don't want to miss is the Canadian Rocky Mountains.

Lake Louise is situated in Banff National Park in the Province of Alberta. It is known as Canada's "Diamond in the Wilderness," and the "Hiking Capital of Canada". You will notice the tremendous diversity of recreational and sightseeing vistas when you visit here. It is home to one of North America's finest downhill ski areas, and has numerous hiking and walking trails. The scenery is spectacular with the lake snuggled in between the mountains, and the region abounds with other fantastic views from glaciers to waterfalls.

The mountains themselves are gorgeous enough to suit any visitor. High, rocky and snow-capped peaks jut into an overwhelming clear blue sky that is a viewer's (and photographer's) delight.

The Village of Lake Louise is on the Trans-Canada Highway 57 kilometers (35 miles) west of Banff, and is easily accessible from Calgary. This quiet, small village offers a range of travel amenities, fabulous dining opportunities and accommodations.

The picture at right is of Banff, Alberta.


If you want to see a truly awe-inspiring sight, Lake Louise will not let you down. One fun activity is canoeing on the lake and being engulfed by the majestic mountains surrounding you. It is an event you won't soon forget!

If you would like a chance to learn a little more about various countries and their unique cuisines, why not try my new Ebook: Tastes and Travels Ebook It offers reviews on various travel destinations and has articles on the cuisine of each place (as well as recipes that you can try).

Pula, Croatia - The Arena

I have been to Pula a number of times (I have family there) and it is amazing to me that the arena there (or the amphitheatre) is not more reknown. It is classic Roman architecture that is really impressive. The Arena in Pual is the ONLY remaining Roman amphitheatre to have four side towers and all three Roman architectural orders entirely preserved. You would think the one in Italy would be better preserved, but that's not true. The one is Pula is much better. The Pula amphitheatre is the sixth largest surviving Roman arena, among 200 other Roman amphitheathres that are in the world today. In Croatia it represents the best preserved ancient monument.

Besides looking at it as a unique ancient architectural structure, another tourist attraction about the arena is that the Pula Film Festival is held there annually and has been since 1954. In the beginning it was known as the Festival of Yugoslav Film but it quickly became the most important national film festival in SFR Yugoslavia, and over the years it has gained considerable international recognition.

Although Pula's arena is a sight not to be missed on any tourist agenda (especially during the film festival), Pula is situated right on the Adriatic Sea. The views are beautiful and swimming in the gorgeous clear turquoise sea is really splendid.

If you are planning a trip to Croatia or thereabouts, Pula would be well worth your time to visit.

If you would like a chance to learn a little more about various countries and their unique cuisines, why not try my new Ebook: Tastes and Travels Ebook It offers reviews on various travel destinations and has articles on the cuisine of each place (as well as recipes that you can try).

Let's Talk About Food

If you come from a specific background, you probably already know about the cuisine from that culture. For instance, if you are Italian, you probably are more than familiar with fettucine, Italian Wedding soup, pizza, Tuscan cooking, Sicilian cooking--I could go on and on. The food from the areas mentioned are unique and the dishes of Italy are well-known to you and others.

But--it is great to try foods from other areas of the world and get new taste experiences. Just because you are familiar with one style of cooking doesn't mean that you won't like anything else. There are many dishes the world over that are classics and they are delicious. No matter what background you come from, most of you have probably had these classic dishes and loved them (like spaghetti from Italy or ratatouille from France).

One thing that is great about traveling is that you get to try new cuisines. The food from other cultures is amazing and if you are up to new taste experiences you can get a lot of enjoyment by trying the local foods and dishes.

If you go on a Carribean vacation, for instance, why not try some of the local island dishes to add to your food repertoire. Try the curry goat from Jamaica, or the jerk pork. Sample the conch soup from the Cayman Islands. Taste a little empanadas from Panama or Arroz con Leche (rice pudding) from Cuba. You may be pleasantly surprised at the wonderful tastes these dishes have to offer.

Different cultures offer a chance to taste and sample new cuisines and to learn how to appreciate them. Each region of the world has its own special ingredients and style of cooking, suited to their climate and the availability of the ingredients that surround them. Each are unique and you can learn a lot about the specific country from the way its cooks and the ingredients it uses.

If you would like a chance to learn a little more about various countries and their unique cuisines, why not try me new Ebook: Tastes and Travels Ebook It offers reviews on various travel destinations and has articles on the cuisine of each place (as well as recipes that you can try).

Los Angeles, California - Excitment Galore!

A couple of years ago I had the opportunity of visiting my sister in L.A. My daughter and I spent a fun and exciting week there. You can't believe all the things we saw and did in one glorious week.

Of course, one of the main attractions for my daughter was Universal Studios. Now that is a fun park! The attractions, the rides, the people, the food--you name it. Everything you could ever ask for in an exciting amusement park. We both recommend it heartily.

We also did the movie studio bit where we watched a T.V. show live from the set. That was a great experience too. Not only do you have the pleasure of seeing your favorite show in action, but you learn what goes on behind the scenes. After you attend one of these events, you look at the shows differently. When watching your show on T.V. you know there is someone in the background making the audience laugh. You get to mingle a bit with the stars and see what they are really like.

Another thing we did was take in the Getty Centre -- you know, the famous art gallery. For me that was a high-light of the trip...and even my daughter, young though she was at the time (14), she still remembers that well. It really is another thing worth seeing if you ever get to travel to L.A.

We did a lot of other sight-seeing... Rodeo Drive, the Hollywood sign, the movie star houses, the clothing manufacturing district (worth going to to get bargains!) and much more. We also visited the Crystal Cathedral (and if you are religious at all, the Mass is worth attending--it is spectacular!)

L.A. is a big, bustling city with lots of attractions and things to do. It is one of those places where you can find something different to do everyday...and has the excitment of the flashy lights and big city to back it up.

Traveling is one part of my life that I thoroughly enjoy. I love seeing how different people live in different places. Even a place like L.A. that is really not that different from my own culture here in Canada provides a unique experience that I will remember forever.

If you want to read about different travel destinations--find articles and travel reviews, as well as articles on ethnic cuisines and recipes--why not get my new Tastes and Travels Ebook

Why Not Take a Cruise?

When you are tired of going simply to one place and lying on the beach in the sun (Heaven forbid!) you can take a different sort of vacation by cruising. Taking a cruise offers many advantages that going to a single spot doesn't. It can be a bit more of a hectic vacation, instead of be a relaxing one, but it can also be a lot of fun.

One of the main advantages of cruising is that you get to see different places. For instance, if you take an Eastern Carribean cruise you can see a few different islands, like the Cayman Islands or Turks & Caicos, or Jamaica, or even see some of Mexico all on the same trip. Then if you find you really like a certain place, that can be the goal for your next week-long vacation.

Cruising offers fine dining and a host of activities aboard ship. There are casinos, pools, nightly floor shows, theatres, night clubs, and so much more. Some cruise ships have rock climbing walls, skating rinks, skeet shooting, golf--you name it.

Many cruises are also theme-oriented. You can take a cruise where the theme is on French cuisine & cooking, and you can take chef training or cooking classes. There are cruise themes on almost anything you can think of--from improving your writing skills, to doll collecting or meeting celebrities, or even fine art based cruises.

There are cruises that are up-scale where you can 'dress' for dinner everynight in black tie and gowns, or casual cruises where anything goes. There are fun ships that include children's programs and cruises that are strictly for adults.

You can probably find a cruise to take you to any part of the world--Caribbean cruises, Mediterran cruises, Alaska cruises, cruises to the Hawaiian Islands, cruises around the coast of Africa, or even trans-Atlantic cruises. You only have to find a destination and the ports-of-call that interest you.

I would highly recommend cruising to anyone. And you don't have to be very concerned with sea-sickness either, as most ships have excellent stabalizers or there is sea-sickness pills which are readily available. Pick your favorite ports of call today and take a cruise for an exciting vacation adventure.

If you would like to read more about cruising and what you can really expect from a cruise, read about it in my new ebook Tastes and Travels Ebook (and get great ethnic recipes as well!)

From Venice to Ottawa

I like to globe-trot so today let's leave Venice and go to Ottawa, Canada. Of course you know that Ottawa (not Toronto) is the capital of Cananda, so there are lots of things to do and see there. You can see the Parliament Buildings (and take a tour) which are set beautifully against the Ottawa River. The old stone castle-like buildings are truly impressive, especially in the spring and summer when the flowers are in bloom. In fact, The East Block of the Parliament Buildings looks much the same now as it did in the time of Confederation. You can also witness the changing of the guard which is another 'neat' sight to behold.

Ottawa has many museums and art galleries to visit like The Canadian War Museum, The National Gallery of Canada, The Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, The Canada Science and Technology Museum, The Canada Aviation Museum and The Royal Canadian Mint. These are are definitely worth taking a 'gander' through.

It has shopping malls galore (huge ones) and a wonderful downtown shopping centre. There are parks beside the Ottawa river to picnic at, and you can't miss seeing the Rideau canal (especially in winter where it is a skater's dream!). Try it out during Ottawa's 'Winterlude Festival'! The picture at right is taken from a picnic/tourist spot on the Ottawa River.

I could go on and on about the fun stuff to see and do in Ottawa, but alas this is only a short blog. If you would like to read a bit more about Ottawa, you can find out more in my new ebook Tastes and Travels Ebook (and get great ethnic recipes as well!)

Come back and visit this blog soon and see where we will go next!

A Trip to Venice

Yesterday I talked to you a little about Havana, Cuba. Today we are travelling across the ocean to another remarkable city -- Venice, Italy. I have visited Venice three times and have left each time in awe. There is no place on earth like it, and it has to be on your top ten list of places to visit before you die.

Travelling the waterways of Venice is a truly unique experience. The ancient architecture is with you even step of the way (or every paddle of the gondola). The stonework that surrounds you and the bridges that cross the canals are awe-inspiring.

On my first trip to Venice I can still recall travelling under the "Bridge of Sighs". That was an enclosed stone bridge over a canal that lead from the courtrooms to the prison in Venice. Although it was a totally enclosed stone structure, there was a small window in the centre. Here it was that convicted prisoners got there last look at freedom, and they 'sighed' (hence the name).

I know Venice is reputed to be dirty and commercial and all that stuff, but you can look past all of that with all the other things the city has to offer. There are fantastic little restaurants and coffee houses, glass blowing factories, museums and art galleries--tons of places to see and things to do--and all of this in totally unique surroundings. And don't forget to take a tour with a guide to learn about the history of the place.

Nowhere on earth will you see the way a water-centred city lives. As you ride by on your gondola you see how the people have water-garages for their household boats (instead of cars). You see how the water waves lap up against the ancient buildings that serve as homes for the people. You see the children running across the bridges in their play or on their way to school.

I can't say enough about Venice. I loved it and you will too. It really is a must-see destination. Put it on your agenda for one of your top places to visit.

You can read more about Venice in my new ebook Tastes and Travels Ebook. And you can read about the Italian cuisine as well...and get some great Italian recipes!

Notes on Travel to Cuba - Havana City

I love Cuba! Although travelling anywhere is experiencing something different, there is no doubt that visiting Cuba is unique. When you step into the City of Havana, you take a step back in time. From the vintage cars on the street to the beautiful architecture, there is no place like it. Of course, the city is run-down for the most part, but you can see the effort everywhere where they are trying to preserve and restore some of the unique buildings. The streets are clean, with not litter anywhere. It is a totally fantastic experience to view a bustling city that is like a page out of the past.

You can sit in a bar where Ernest Hemingway slept and drank (and even wrote his novel "For Who the Bell Tolls") and cherish your frosty Cuba Libra (a rum and coke drink with lime in it) and watch other tourists ride the ancient grill-work elevator. You can ride in one of the horse-drawn carriages to view the city in comfort. You can walk the cobblestone alleys and see the little shops and visit museums, book stores, perfume factories, cigar factories, art galleries...and much more.

There are a thousand things to see and do--great restaurants and bistros (Cuban food is not as bad as it is reputed to be), eat in their own little Chinatown, or get a taste of coconut water from a freshly cut coconut at the art market.

This is just a short blog, but visiting Havana City in Cuba is certainly worth seeing. I'll discuss the magnificient beaches and resorts another time, but they are worth knowing about too.

If you want to know a bit more about Cuba and Cuban cooking, you might want to read my new ebook "Tastes and Travels". It has a great reveiw about Cuba, as well as an article on Cuban cooking...and recipes! You can get it here: Tastes and Travels Ebook

Welcome to the NEW Tastes and Travels Blog!!

Well, this is the first post in my Tastes and Travels blog. Welcome!!!

What is this blog about? Well, I love to travel and I love to cook...and eat, so I am combining my loves and sharing them with you.

Travelling has to be one of the most rewarding things to do on this earth. Seeing different places, finding out how others live, taking in the beauty of the world--I can't think of a better thing to do!

Unless of course its eating. And another great part about travelling is that you get to sample different cuisines, different ways of cooking, ways of combining ingredients that you never thought of before, experience the tastes of new ingredients, new fruits, vegetables, spices -- oh, its so EXCITING!!!

I guess you get the idea that I am excited about my new blog. Future posts will get into the nitty-gritty of my travel experiences and even of places I WANT to travel to. I'll also provide recipes I have tried and created from the various places I have visited.

By the way, the picture shown was taken on a visit to Jamaica. It is of Blue Hole on the north coast -- not your typical shot of Jamaica, is it?

Come back and visit and we'll share this taste and travel experience together!!

If you want to get ahead of me, try reading my new ebook Tastes and Travels Ebook