WHAT TO DO IN ROME

ROME'S ICONIC SITES

Well we all know that Rome is home to some amazing fountains.   We had talked about the infamous Trevi Fountain not to long ago...but what is even more amazing is some of the historical sites around Rome...and I am not just talking some old places...I am talking back in the day of Julius Ceasar.  The Colosseum comes to mind.  Imagine you are sitting in the middle of all the hustle and bustle and there in all of its archeological glory sits The Colosseum...where the Gladiators fought.  This massive stadium was built in 70 AD.  It's still there!  


Now remember, we are only talking about Rome...picture yourself in the time of Julius Ceasar...and the Roman Forum.  The Roman Forum flourished as the center of Roman life in the days of the Republic and early Empire.  Of course this mostly in ruins now...but still you can almost feel yourself transported in time as you walk through the area.  Just picture the original temples, arches and basilicas, and if you climb Palatine Hill you will be provided a panoramic view of the Roman Imperial Forums and Capitoline Hill and the Colosseum.  Simply Amazing!


Well no trip to Rome would be complete without visiting The Vatican and St. Peter's Basilica.  The Vatican, or course, is the lavish Papal Palace, known as the Vatican Museum.  YOu may want to get a guide book to help you tour around because there is so much to see.  Here is a tip....arrive early it helps beat some of the crowds.  Now while there you will see a treasure trove of mummies, tapestries, and Renaissance art.  Every room will provide you with another awe-inspiring experience.  Then your trip will be complete when you see the Sistine Chapel, Michelangelo's astonishing achievement....


So we now move on to St Peter's Basilica.  This is considered the holiest shrine in the Catholic Church.  The basilica is built on the site of St. Peter's tomb.  The Pope delivers Mass within its glorious walls and Bernini's massive bronze canopy towers over the alter.  The Basilica also contains Michelangelo's famous marble statue, The Pieta.  Which, by the way he completed when he was only 24.  Whether you of the Catholic faith or not...the artistry, the history and the ambiance is worth the visit.  However, remember that because it is the Vatican, there is a dress code.  
A trip to Rome would not be complete without experiencing Rome by night.  Rome after Dark is illuminated...Imagine the lights on the Pantheon, the Roman Temple dedicated to the Gods.  Many of the iconic sites are lite up at night.  Just breathtaking.   While your out exploring you may want to take in some of the night life...sip the wine and taste the food and enjoy the journey.

COMING TO DISNEY
I can't believe all the new things coming to Disney.  First and foremost I want to let everyone know that there is a lot of construction in and around Disney so you can have even more fun.  So what is all the Construction about...well let's start with the new and coming Gondolas high above the road.  These will transport you in and around some of the parks and some of the hotels.  This should be complete in 2019...fingers crossed.  Now some of the things inside the parks..you have heard that the Star Wars is expanding by leaps and bounds, but what you may not have heard is in Epcot in France, by the France Pavilion, they are building a new ride behind the France experience.  This ride is based on the movie Ratatouille...It will be a 3D glasses experience and follow Ratatouille in the scene where he is being chased in the kitchen.  I can't wait.  All these new experiences and attractions coming to Disney will keep you going from the time you get here to the time you leave and you will have to come back to see more.  I do recommend staying on property as they have special magic hours for those staying in their resorts. Also check out their meal plans...they are definitely worth it.  

SUPPORT ANIMALS ON PLANES 
Well there has been all sort of scuttlebutt around what type of animals are allowed on the planes...we have seen some strange sightings of peacocks and more...Even TV commercials poked fun at it with fliers bringing on their pet dinosaurs.  So here is the latest.  Some airlines have come up with a compromise or better yet control on types of animals.  Delta, United, Jet Blue, Southwest and some others have decided a support animal is either a Dog or Cat...in some cases miniature horses.  However, you will need a letter from a medical doctor or licensed mental health professional on the day of departure.  Also any animal that has disruptive behavior may be denied boarding.  I do advise you call your airline in advance to make sure that you are in compliance with their rules and regulations.

CELEBRITY CRUISES IN THE GALAPAGOS
Want more exploration in your life...check out the Celebrity Cruise lines to the Galapagos. The Galapagos Islands are located in the Pacific Ocean right in the Equator Line and about 605 miles to the west of South America.  The Islands are part of Ecuador.  That being said you can see some real interesting wildlife.   For instance, you will see the Blue-footed Booby.  These birds actually have blue feet...I can only describe the blue as sort of a Tiffany Blue.  You also have heard these islands have those giant tortoises and if you are a snorkeler the Sea Lions will be all around.  If you want to explore the Islands you have the Lava Tunnels and beautiful landscapes.  If you want even more excitement in your life...there is Cliff Jumping.  Not me, thank you....but you can watch others.   These cruises usually sail between September to November and the ships are a little more intimate so space fills fast.  So you may want to book now for next year.  Feel free to contact me and I can get you on one of these fabulous cruises.



DESTINATION OF THE WEEK
Bar Harbor Maine

A luxurious and coastal getaway, Bar Harbor invites you to explore its magnificent landscape painted with nature’s pleasures and iconic jewels.  With the Acadia National Park in its backyard, the town is surrounded by such beautiful sights that flow from the bottom of the tranquil lakes to the top of the 1,532-foot Mount Cadillac.  Bar Harbor is truly a great destination to enjoy nature, adventure, and beauty to the fullest.  So enchanting, the Rockefellers, Vanderbilts, and other prominent families found refuge in its charm.

Located on Mount Desert Island in Maine, United States, Bar Harbor’s captivating landscape was once a peaceful escape for many artists and scholars.  However, more people are becoming drawn to this unique paradise filled with deluxe accommodations, slightly tucked away from the busy crowds.  Bar Harbor offers an extraordinary experience for tourists who are searching for a peaceful, yet eventful vacation.   Enjoy the orange sunset over the sea on the nature cruises, which are highlighted with amazing sights of whales, dolphins, and puffins. Bar Harbor’s maritime is also home to many exotic animals and kayaking adventures.

The town’s shopping experience is an enriching treat for everyone.  Local boutiques and shops are vibrantly draped with treasures specifically found in Maine.  With such a variety of antiquities, there is something for every pocket. Nights are warmed by the sounds of live entertainment coming from the nearby hotspots.  From comedy shows to concerts, Bar Harbor provides a great atmosphere for an intimate outing under the stars.

The foods of Bar Harbor are a cultural event that brings locals and tourists together.  Restaurants are drenched in the mouthwatering scents of seafood, lobster, and many other delicious treats.  Behind every door there is a wide spectrum of digestive specialties, purposely created to delight your taste buds.

Bar Harbor experiences a moist continental climate.  From June to September (warm season) the temperatures average from a high of 77°F to a low of 48°F.  During the months of December to March, the weather fluctuates between a high of 35°F to as low as 10°F.

Hancock County-Bar Harbor Airport (BHB) is the town’s main gateway to the rest of the United States as well as different international destinations.  Sail under the sun and capture views of Bar Harbor’s coast by hopping on board of a local ferry.  The Island Explorer provides tours to various hiking grounds, sites, and beaches.  

RECIPE OF THE WEEK

PERFECT FLUFFY PANCAKES

INGREDIENTS

1 1/2 c. flour

3 tsp. baking powder

1 tsp. salt

1 tbsp. sugar

1 tsp. vanilla extract

1 1/3 c. milk

1 large egg

2 tbsp. butter, melted

Maple syrup, for serving

DIRECTIONS

1.      Mix flour, baking powder, salt and sugar in a large bowl, then add vanilla, milk, egg and melted butter. Stir just enough to break up any large lumps.

2.    Lightly grease a frying pan, warming it over medium-low heat. Pour about 1/4-cup pancake batter onto the pan, spreading it out evenly. When a lip forms around the edge of the pancake and little bubbles appear, flip (about 1-2 minutes). Cook until both sides are lightly golden. Serve with maple syrup. Or any syrup you would like…..
       
       Well I hope you tune-in to my podcast and subscribe for free.  You can pick up my podcast on I-tunes/Stitcher/Buzzsprout.  

     You can also visit my website at www.zeemichaelsontravel.com and you can let your imagination run wild.  And let me help you Make Your Travel Dreams Come True.

I

SCENIC MOTORCYCLE RIDES IN THE UNITED STATES

PLACES TO RIDE & EXPLORE ON MOTORCYCLE

DEATH VALLEY
Well let's start out on the West Coast. We are talking way out west...Death Valley National Park.  I know its hot...but if you enter from Beatty, Nevada and stop for your photos about 30 minutes down the road at Hell's Gate you won't be disappointed.  You can see the entire Valley for this position.    Then if you head south on Highway 190 to Artist Palette, this rock face of the Black Mountains where the colors of the Rainbow naturally occur...gorgeous....now back to 190 and ride to Dante's View.  It's over 5000 ft above sea level and you can see far out into Death Valley.   Now after a full day of riding you will be ready to settle in for a rest.  Check out Oasis at Death Valley.  There is a natural spring on the property which feeds their pool.  You also must be hungry...try Gema's Wagon Wheel Cafe. Everything is homemade.  Again remember....it is hot in the desert during the day...whether summer or winter...take plenty of water and stay hydrated.  This may also be a nice adventure for an RV or Car as well...



THE LOWER CATSKILLS
If you are doing this on motorcycle, you may not want to do this during the winter...snow and ice...brrrr!  However, spring summer and fall, the lower Catskills will take your breath away.  During the spring...the area starts to bloom...in summer it is lush and green and fall...this is when the colors come alive with fall foliage.  There are a few bike groups, take Mountain Mamas, its's a 194 mile trip.  It takes you all the way to the Northern Catskills to see the local ski towns...of which I have visited in the winter....I don't ski, I lodge...but still fun.  During the summer months these locations are beautiful and fun little towns.  There is another group called Peace-Love-Motorcycles.  They do a 184 mile trip.  It's a Historical tour of the Catskills and it marks the site of Woodstock 69...and heads north all the way up to the famed Katterskill Falls. the route cuts through ravines with twists and turns.  This bike tour does set up camp at Landers Narrowsburg Campground which is right on the banks of the Delaware River.  Now bring your appetite because The Heron in Narrowsburg, I've been told, has the best spicy grits.  I will have to believe them.  I don't eat grits...but let me know if you try them.  



SHENANDOAH NATIONAL PARK
I have only chosen 3 locations for your motorcycle adventures...but our friends at Conde Nast can help you with a listing of many more.  So that being said we are going to Virginia, Skyline Drive.   It is 105 mile long and runs along the crest of the Blue Ridge Mountains in Shenandoah National Park.  Now for our Biker friends that don't want to ride the full length on this 105 trek, there are a few different entrances to Skyline.  Front Royal/Thornton Gap/Swift Run Gap/Rockfish Gap, now be warned the speed limit is mostly 35 mph...you won't want to speed around the Skyline...this is best enjoyed at this speed so you can stop and take it all in.  Again...if you are into fall foliage...you will be delighted.  There are 5 campground that cost like 15.00 bucks, but if you are like me...I don't camp, there is Skyland Resort.  It is located at the highest elevation about 3680 ft.  And after a day of riding...you are going to want a treat.  How about Blackberry Pie with Blackberry Icecream, or even a blackberry shake.  Can you tell blackberries abound here.  Check out Elkwallow for one of these tasty treats.  Just to let you know there are 75 Scenic overlooks along Skyline Drive...

WISING YOU HAPPY MOTORING....ENJOY THE RIDE!

MOST DANGEROUS FOODS
ACKEE….Indigenous to West Africa, but most commonly associated with Jamaica….where it’s the national fruit…this fruit can cause severe vomiting if eaten before its fully ripe….
CASSAVA...Several African and South American Cultures turn this tuber into a filling mash or dense cake…but only after cooking it very thoroughly.  Raw cassava releases and enzyme which converts to a compound in the root into cyanide….
RHUBARB…Now this is something that I have been hearing about for years…I personally don’t like rhubarb pie…but lots of people do.  The rhubarb leaves (both raw and cooked) contain high amounts of oxalic acid which can quickly lead to kidney failure….however you would have to eat large quantities of the leaves to reach this lethal amount.
BLOOD CLAMS…Relatively hard to find…they are harvested in Gulf of Mexico…the Atlantic and some parts of the Pacific.  These guys filter more water to get the nutrients they need.  However, these guys may ingest more viruses and bacteria including hepatitis A…typhoid…and dysentery…and you may want to completely avoid those culled from China’s waters as they’ve been responsible for hepatitis outbreaks…

SCENIC TOURS

From River Cruises to Ocean Cruises to Escorted Tours, you won't want to miss out on one of these luxurious ships.  With Christmas right around the corner imagine yourself floating down the Danube and visiting those fabulous Christmas Markets...Or what about floating down the Douro River of Portugal and visiting those enchanting riverside communities and wonderful places to stop and eat.  But you may want save your appetite a little for your river boat as they will serve up some gastronomical delights.  Or why not head to Egypt and Jordan.  There is so much more and what better way to cruise the world then in one of Scenic's beautiful long boats or ships.  and don't forget about the Scenic Eclipse, this is where luxury meets discovery.   It is designed to deliver the ultimate experience of a lifetime for only 228 guests, only 200 in the Arctic and Antarctica, Scenic Eclipse takes ocean cruising to a whole new level – marrying luxury, discovery and safety, and giving guests the opportunity to explore above and beyond what was previously imaginable.  It even has its own helipad for Helicopter...WOW!  Feel free to contact Zee Michaelson Travel and we can get you on one of these exquisite adventures.

DESTINATION OF THE WEEK
So since Scenic Tours goes to Jordan and you can visit Petra...what do you say we go to
AMMAN JORDAN... 

Since 150 AD, the archeological ruins of the Roman Amphitheater remain a marvelous display of Amman’s history.  So grand, the stadium seated 6,000 spectators within its 33 rows comfortably to watch live performances and other ceremonial rituals.  It appears as a huge bowl deeply rooted in a vast hill of the city and it echoes true beauty with its stone-like interior and massive columns.  Its architectural design is an insightful view of the thrilling events and cultural impact of ancient Jordan.   Still in use today, the Amphitheater is an amazing example of why Amman, Jordan is such a captivating destination spot.

Amman is a densely populated capital and city of Jordan in the Middle East.  The bustling city is inhabited by over two million people and situated on seven hills.  Once renamed Philadelphia, meaning "brotherly love", this is a true testament of the warm, welcoming smiles and greetings of the Jordanian people.   Its history dates back to biblical times and invites you to a world like none other with the numerous attractions that decorate Amman.  To begin your journey head to the Citadel, this hill houses many of the preservations of the archeological ruins.  The Great Temple of Hercules is an unfinished attraction that overlooks the city at 33 feet. Corinthian columns of the Byzantine Basilica are a historic reminder of the Christian heritage that once prevailed in Amman.  The remains of Umayyad Mosque are still an important display of Amman’s history with its resemblance to a true Islamic mosque and a reconstructed dome that sticks out among the ruins of the ancient site.  The numerous tourist attractions provide a scenic look and cultural guide into the flourishing capital.

Souqs, boutiques, and designer stores all make up the shopping environment of Amman.  Everything from fabrics, jewelry, and handcrafts are within reach.  Shop at the designer stores and get the latest fashions and great deals on fashionable accessories.  Trendy shops are also available for tourists to purchase souvenirs and authentic Jordanian merchandise to add to their collections.   

The cultural influence of Amman is also presented in its culinary delicacies.   However, an abundance of multicultural foods can be found throughout the city.  Start your meal with mezze, which is a popular array of Arabic appetizers. Foods like stuffed vine leaves, eggplants, cheese, yogurt, and kebabs are delicious and capture the true tastes and culture of the city. Chefs prepare exotic cuisines that will hit the spot and appease your taste buds.

Amman experiences typically a moderate temperate.   Summers are usually hot and dry with the weather averaging in the 80s-90s during the day, with the nights cooling down to the mid 60s.  Rainfall is common in the spring and fall with temperatures averaging from the 80s-60s.  However, mornings are expected to be a little cooler with the climate ranging from the 40s-­­­50s.  Winter has the most abundant rainfall.  The temperature is expected to average around 50s and lower to the 30s.

Queen Alia International Airport serves flights to and from Amman.  Taxis are abundant and they are the best way to travel to your desired location within the city.  Public buses also offer rides and different routes to major spots in Amman.  In addition, train services are offered along the railroad to Syria, Amman, and Damascus twice a week.  Now don't forget in order to drive in Amman, visitors must obtain an international driving permit.  However, the best way to enjoy Amman’s weather, scenery, and locals is to take a leisurely stroll along the busy streets and lively markets.

RECIPE OF THE WEEK

BISCOTTI
Ingredients

1/2 cup vegetable oil

3 eggs

1 cup sugar

1 tablespoon anise extract, or 3 drops anise oil

3 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
1 tablespoon baking powder

Directions

1.      Preheat the oven to 375 degrees F. Grease cookie sheets or line with parchment paper. In a medium bowl, beat together the oil, eggs, sugar and anise flavoring until well blended. Combine the flour and baking powder, stir into the egg mixture to form a heavy dough. Divide dough into 2 pieces. Form each piece into a roll as long as your cookie sheet. Place roll onto the prepared cookie sheet, and press down to 1/2-inch thickness.

2.    Bake for 25 to 30 minutes, until golden brown. Remove from the baking sheet to cool on a wire rack. When the cookies are cool enough to handle, slice each 1 crosswise into 1/2-inch slices. Place the slices cut side up back onto the baking sheet. Bake for an additional 6 to 10 minutes on each side. Cookie slices should be lightly toasted

Check out my weekly PODCAST and please feel free to share it with our friends and family.  If you have any travel recommendations or perhaps a tip that you think we all should know about...let me know and we can post it on my blog and we may even chat about it on my podcast.  Feel free to check out my website and let your travel dreams go wild while you surf my site.

FOOD FOOD GLORIOUS AND WHERE TO FIND SOME OF IT.

SOME OF AMERICA'S FAVORITE FOOD STOPS

FRIED GREEN TOMATOES...no not the movie...the food.  Coming from New York...it wasn't a usual item on the menus there.  So as I ventured around in the United States and wound up landing in Florida...I did taste Fried Green Tomatoes...and you know something...I liked them...some places had better tasting ones than other...each with their own recipes...So from what I understand there is a restaurant in Alabama called Acre in Auburn....I have not yet been there but if any of my readers...or listeners of my podcast...and you happen there, try the Fried Green Tomatoes and let me know if they are as good as I a been hearing.

CHILI DOG ANYONE.  Not just any Chili Dog..its called a Sonoran Dog...a Tex Mex meet up.  Now get this, a hot dog wrapped in bacon...slathered with pinto beans...tomatoes and a mix or raw and grilled onions...topped with mustard, mayonnaise, and jalapeno salsa....It is then piled into a crusty bolillo roll directly imported from Mexico.   This one of a kind Chili Dog can be found in South Tuscon Arizona...El Guero Canelo...I don't eat meat...but I know Jay Lawrence would love to hear from you if you happen to try this tasty meal.

LAMB CHOPS...Now when I did eat meat...I just loved lamb.  If done just right it is a mouth watering delight.  Lamb chops done with just the right amount of seasonings and perfecting cooked can be found in Boulder Colorado.  A high end restaurant named Flagstaff House.  However; you if you crave these little mouth watering chops, you must call ahead because the Flagstaff House changes the menu and the lamb chops may not be on it that day.

SCRAPPLE...HMMM?....Not sure about this one.  What is Scrapple you might say.  I believe it's the American version of Haggis.  It is a blend of pork scraps, cornmeal, wheat flour and spices...then formed into a loaf...sliced and fired up until crispy golden brown.   I am told to order this with a side of eggs.  If you want to give this a try head to Delaware...to the Whereabouts Cafe in Bear...  You may even want to go during the Apple Scrapple Festival for a fun time.

KEY LIME PIE.  Jay Lawrence would never forgive me if I didn't tell everyone where they can get the best Key Lime Pie.  So we head to Florida...Key West Florida to be precise.  This dessert originated in Key West when a private chef of hardware magnate William Curry was looking for a way to incorporate condensed milk into a dessert.  This invention was prior to refridgeration.   Now if you want to try the most authentic pie and can't make it to Key West...you can go on line and order one from the Key Lime Pie Co.  But if you are down in the Keys..the line is a little long but worth the wait.  If you didn't get all the way to the Keys...check out Joe's Stone Crab version in South Beach and enjoy.

DISNEY'S EPCOT FOOD AND WINE FESTIVAL...if you can't make it to any of these place and want to experience great food from around the World.  Epcot Food and Wine Festival is a way to go.  Not only do they have their usual 11 countries to try food...but they have 50 plus booths from other countries.  You can get a special band that will allow you to taste your way around the World.  They even have excellent Wine Pairings and special classes about food and wind and cooking that you can attend.  While there they also have special entertainment at the American Pavilion area.  I have been to this event many times over the years...and I still haven't tasted everything that they have to offer.  If you want to get there...this goes on every year and runs from end of August to Mid November.

NOW FOR SOMETHING DIFFERENT....KYOTO JAPAN.  Japan a land of beauty, metropolitan, history and great food.  Kyoto is where the gorgeous cherry blossom trees are.  Kyoto is a very walk-able city.  You can stroll down the rows of Cherry Blossoms when in bloom in the spring.  Well hold onto your passports....because coming in March of 2019....you will be able to float down Lake Biwa Canal and lazily see the Cherry Blossom Trees go by.  the boat tours hold up to 12 people and last about 30 to 50 minutes...so walk or float...your choice but definitely something to see.


CRUISING...UPSCALE...Like to cruise but want more of an intimate high end experience.  How about a Crystal Yacht Expedition Cruise to the West Indies.  You can experience glamorous luxury and world-famous yachting adventure on all-suite, all inclusive sailings...relax and explore beautiful beaches....because we are talking smaller vessels, things book fast....so make your plans now for next year and feel free to contact me, Zee Michaelson, and I can get you on these beautiful yachts.

DESTINATION OF THE WEEK
Wellington, New Zealand, is a beautiful city that offers unmatched culture, entertainment, fine cuisine and natural beauty.  The capital city's lies in its close proximity to beautiful beaches, parks, wildlife sanctuaries and seaside villages...Majestic Rolling Hills and a rugged coastline makes this a perfect place to visit and explore.  Wellington is grouped in four quarters, each having a magnificent spattering of shops, boutiques, art galleries and trendy cafes and restaurants.  Brimming with heritage, fine foods and arts...this city will not disappoint.  You can even hop on a boat ride around the stunning harbor at sunset...or hop on a cable car...this Hilly terrain by the water with picturesque Victorian Houses reminds me of San Francisco.  ...Weather there is moderate temperatures year round.  The warmer temperature come in the winter months of December to March, the average high is around 69 degrees. The summer months June through September tend to be the coldest and average around 54 degrees.  Remember it is a coastal town and can be very windy.  The rainy season is typically from June through August.  Go, Enjoy, take pictures and please don't forget to send me some so I may post it on my blog.

RECIPE OF THE WEEK....

KEY LIME PIE…
Ingredients
CRUST:
16 Graham crackers…crushed
3 Tbsp granulated sugar
¼ lb unsalted butter

PIE FILLING:
4 Large egg yolks
14 oz sweetened condensed milk
½ cup fresh key lime juice (apprx 12 key limes)
1 tsp lime peel, grated, green portion only

WHIPPING CREAM FOR GANISH (Optional)
½ cup heavy whipping cream
2 tsp granulated sugar
¼ tsp Madagascar pure vanilla extract

DIRECTIONS
PIE CRUST
Preheat oven to 350 degrees….
Mix the ingredients of the pie crust together and press them into a 9 inch pie plate.
Bake in oven in middle rack for 10-12 minutes until lightly browned
Remove from oven and let cool on rack

NOW FOR THE PIE FILLINGmixer with a whipping attachement…beat the egg yolks on medium speed until they are thick and turn yellow….DO NOT OVER MIXNow add the sweetened condensed milk and mix on low and drizzle ½  of the lime juice, once all lime juice is mixed then add the balance of lime juice in add the zest…continue to mix until all melted in.  Pour mix into the pie shell

Bake at 350 degrees for 12 minutes to set the yolks
Remove from oven and cool to room temperature and then refrigerate for approximately 2 hours to set

WHIPPING CREAM
In a stainless steel medium bowl combine whipping cream, sugar and vanilla and whisk by hand until creamy peaks form……


Please enjoy my weekly podcast on I-tunes/Stitcher/Buzzsprout and please feel free to share it with your friends and family. I also look forward to hearing back from you regarding any travel recommendations or perhaps a tip that you think we all should know about,
let me know and we can post it on my blog and we may even chat about it on my podcast.  Feel free to check out my website and let your travel dreams go wild while you surf my site.

HOLIDAYS ARE COMING...HOLIDAYS ARE COMING...HOLIDAYS ARE COMING

QUICK GETAWAY AREAS FROM NEW YORK

Well as you may or may not know I was in the New York area a few weeks ago.  I spend most of my time on Long Island...visiting family and friends....Well there are quite a few things to do when New Yorkers look to get away.  Okay...the beach comes to mind.  The Hamptons...is a great little getaway, beautiful stretches of beach...quaint town community...and breathtaking homes.  If the beach is not your thing and want to explore another city...think Philadelphia.  Great history, great city, great food and can walk around and just explore.  Now I lived in Brooklyn, I lived on Long Island in Nassau County and I lived in Upstate New York.  Some city dwellers love to take that ride Upstate...by the Hudson Valley.  you have mountains, lakes, rivers and small little towns along the way.  During the fall season..the trees show their magnificent colors, you can pick apples or pumpkins and explore some of those roadside stands with their goodies...and don't forget those Apple Cider Donuts...


AIRPORT/AIRLINE PRECHECKS

If you are a frequent flier or just travel from time to time with a large group of children.  You may want to consider the Airport Precheck...It gets you thru security so much quicker and easier.  It is a membership...so yes...it does have a price associated with it, but when you are pre-qualified and pre-checked you can get thru the lines much easier...so no removal of shoes or belts and you can keep your laptop safely packed. However not all airports or all airlines have the PreCheck available.  You can go on line and find out more go to www.tsa.gov for more info

DISNEY HALLOWEEN/MICKEY'S NOT SO SCARY

I can't believe its that time of year again.  HALLOWEEN!...and you know Disney does it right with the Mickey's Not So Scary.  This is a special ticketed event and only those with this ticket is allowed in park.  It is a fun time had by all...children dress in their favorite costume as well as the adults...they kids get to trick or treat...there is enough candy stations throughout the park...The whole park is alive with special Halloween do's...Like the "Boo to You" Parade...even the characters are in Costume!  Mickey's Not So Scary is not every night and the closer you get to Halloween it becomes sold out...so get your costumes ready and get your tickets now and have spooktacular fun time.


CRUISE THE CHRISTMAS MARKETS....OVERSEAS

What an unbelievable experience to visit charming villages to great cultural centers you can look forward to the hum and buzz of Christmas, with treats and toys and charms and trinkets of every description all in a joyful Christmas display.  Scenic Tours can help with this fabulous experience.  We are so close to the Holidays now you can smell the Christmas Cookies and Hot Coco...which of course you can get at those Christmas Markets in Europe.


DESTINATION OF THE WEEK...
I know with all this talk about the Holidays you can just about feel the chill in the air.  So let's talk about going to JAMAICA.  You can even plan a trip for the Holidays there...get away from the winter chill with warm Caribbean winds infused with sunshine and raggae.  Jamaica is a colorful mosaic made up of sugary beaches, friendly faces, natural wonders and diverse cuisine.  Jamaica is divided into three historic counties...Middlesex, Surrey and Cornwall.  Jamaica's capital is Kingston as well as Montego Bay, Negril and Ocho Rios are the most visited destinations.  Kingston is a bustling city most famously known for its many raggae nightclubs and the Bob Marley Musuem.....Montego Bay i sone of he ost popular tourist destinations in the Caribbean...Negril is known for its seven miles of white sand beaches and laid back atmosphere...Ocho Rios sits on Jamaica's northern coast and is home to both large resorts and smaller family run hotels. Vacationers come here for the natural falls and world class scuba diving....sooooo....Whether you are seeking a serene relaxing vacation or an unbridled adventure....check out this Island Destination.....

RECIPE OF THE WEEK

CHRISTMAS STOLLEN
Ingredients

3 h 15 servings 178 cals

• 1 tablespoon active dry yeast
• 2/3 cup warm milk (110 degrees F/45 degrees C)
• 1 large egg
• 1/3 cup white sugar
• 1/2 tablespoon salt
• 1/3 cup butter, softened

• 2 1/2 cups bread flour
• 1/3 cup currants
• 1/3 cup sultana raisins
• 1/3 cup red candied cherries, quartered
• 2/3 cup diced candied citron
• 6 ounces marzipan
• 1 tablespoon confectioners' sugar
• 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon

Directions

1.  In a small bowl, dissolve yeast in warm milk. Let stand until creamy, about 10 minutes.

2.  In a large bowl, combine the yeast mixture with the egg, white sugar, salt, butter, and 2 cups bread flour; beat well. Add the remaining flour, 1/4 cup at a time, stirring well after each addition. When the dough has begun to pull together, turn it out onto a lightly floured surface, and knead in the currants, raisins, dried cherries, and citrus peel. Continue kneading until smooth, about 8 minutes.

3.  Lightly oil a large bowl, place the dough in the bowl, and turn to coat with oil. Cover with a damp cloth and let rise in a warm place until doubled in volume, about 1 hour.

4.  Lightly grease a cookie sheet. Deflate the dough and turn it out onto a lightly floured surface. Roll the marzipan into a rope and place it in the center of the dough. Fold the dough over to cover it; pinch the seams together to seal. Place the loaf, seam side down, on the prepared baking sheet. Cover with a damp cloth and let rise until doubled in volume, about 40 minutes. Meanwhile, preheat oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C).

5.  Bake in the preheated oven for 10 minutes, then reduce heat to 300 degrees F (150 degrees C), and bake for a further 30 to 40 minutes, or until golden brown. Allow loaf to cool on a wire rack. Dust the cooled loaf with confectioners' sugar, and sprinkle with the cinnamon.

      If you are enjoying my weekly podcast please feel free to share it with our friends and family.  If you have any travel recommendations or perhaps a tip that you think we all should know about...let me know and we can post it on my blog and we may even chat about it on my podcast.  Feel free to check out my website and let your travel dreams go wild while you surf my site.