I’m turning 66 this Saturday. That’s not a big surprise to those who knows me. I’m not shy about celebrating my birthday month or sharing my age with people. Many people might say I overdo it. Celebrating your day of birth for an entire month may be considered self-indulgent, selfish, and self-involved. I say that it’s a great way to reward yourself for making it through another year, reflecting on all the things you’ve accomplished, and taking stock of what you’d still like to do.
Sign from our trip through the U.S. on Route 66
I must admit that this year, I couldn’t quite decide what to do. I typically have a theme or a plan of things I want to do. This year, I felt uninspired. I’ve been having trouble moving forward with almost everything. I have plenty to do, but somehow I couldn’t seem to get motivated to start anything. This inaction let the birthday month arrive with no plans. With all that’s going on in the world, it seemed more indulgent than ever to be celebrating myself every day.
Birthday Jar
When June 1st rolled around, I was greeted by a glass jar labeled “Your Magical Mystery Birthday Month Jar!” and a stack of notes bound by a rubber band. My ever-creative wife, Diana, had filled this jar with folded handwritten notes. Each note contained an idea for what to do each day. She gave me the direction that if I didn’t like the one I picked, I could keep picking until I found the one right for that day. If I chose one that I wanted to do at a later date, I could set that aside.
This whole idea made me smile and giggle with glee. How fun to choose an adventure every day. The first day, I picked “Private Joni Mitchell Backstage Pass Day – music, videos, movies, food, and drinks all inspired by Joni – up close and personal.” What!?! As a raving Joni fan, this made me seriously happy. We turned on Apple Music and listened to non-stop Joni. We watched a few documentaries, ate oranges, drank tea with honey, and had a great time. It was simple but perfect.
The other stack of notes was filled with something each day that Diana liked about me. This was very sweet and certainly helped build up my self-esteem. Opening one each day made me feel very special and loved.
Cheeseburger at Miami, Miami in Estoril
Some of the things we’ve done are go to new parks and have a picnic, enjoy our breakfast or lunch on the veranda, take a drive to somewhere new, have afternoon tea with friends, eat cheeseburgers, eat tons of cherries, have cocktails with friends, meals with friends, try new recipes, and much more.
Many of these notes that Diana left me gave me time by myself to read, draw, paint, or do nothing. I’ve spent a lot of time walking to the beach by myself due to Diana’s ankle injury. This has forced me, without realizing it, to reflect a little deeper on my birthday month. I made a list of the things I’ll be focusing on in the upcoming year.
Be Open To New Things & New People TODAY
No more “I’ll do that next week, next month, next year.” When opportunities present themselves I’ll get my butt out there and stop making excuses. I’m going to ask more questions and get to know people better.
I often think I want to do something, and then later wish I could just stay home. I am a Cancer crab after all, safe and secure in her comfortable self-created shell. Forcing myself out of that shell inevitably ends up feeling good.
Early morning walk on the paradao
Make The Change TODAY
They say you have to do something for at least a month or more before it becomes a habit. I believe it. I made a goal to walk at least 5 miles (8 kilometers) every day last year. Most days, I still do it. The days that I miss, I don’t feel as good, and I don’t sleep as well. I know it makes a difference in my life, so I do it.
Deciding what you want to change about your life and doing it will give you a huge sense of accomplishment.
Plan That Trip and Take It TODAY
We moved to Europe in part so we could travel easily and affordably throughout this region. We’ve taken many trips already, and we see many older people struggling to navigate places they’ve waited their whole lives to see. It’s essential to make time to travel and see the world as early in your life as possible. Don’t wait!
We’ve done several trips, but there are still many places we want to see. We sat down and made a list of the places we want to go and when we can do that.
Make That Call TODAY
One thing I did during my morning walks was record short videos to send to people I hadn’t talked to in a while. At about a minute or less, I took the time to say hello, tell them I missed them, and send a short message on what’s going on with us. It was like leaving a video voicemail, and everyone seemed to enjoy it.
Sending someone a short note will make their day and help keep your connection strong.
Forgive Yourself TODAY
I think one of the reasons I couldn’t decide what to do this month was that I just felt, at this point in my life, I should have done more, been better, loved better, created more. Growing older prompts reflection on your past, your present, and what you’ll leave behind when you’re gone. The reality is that I’ve accomplished a great deal, more than most, been a good person, have a loving wife, and we’ve made a good life together.
Sometimes we are too hard on ourselves. As Joni Mitchell said, “Nobody’s harder on me than me, how could they be, nobody’s harder on you than you.” Taking stock every now and then is a good idea. Talking to old friends who know you helps to keep you grounded and appreciated.
I want to thank all my friends who helped me celebrate my birthday month. Even if we didn’t get to see each other in real life, you sent notes, left messages, and I felt all the love. The ones I did get to see, we laughed, we gossiped, and we shared precious time together. That’s what birthday month is all about.
I strive to live the best life I can each day. Being grateful for my sixty-six years on this planet, I try to ignore the little aches and pains that make it just a bit harder to get out of bed each morning. As my Uncle Ed used to say, “Getting old isn’t for wimps,” and boy was he right.
I watch way too much women’s sports, says no one ever.
BONUS IDEA: I belong to a lot of online painting groups. One group leader came up with the idea to create a calendar with two-inch by two-inch squares for each day. Each day, you could draw or paint something, anything, so that you create something each day. I took that idea and decided I could fill each day with something that I did that day or something that happened during birthday month. It’s been a fun experiment. Completing each day doesn’t take much time. I now have a calendar full of reminders. A friend suggested that I frame it, and I just might.
Every time my birthday comes around, I stop and think about what I’ve done, especially all the food and travel experiences, and what I still want to do. Those who know me know that my birthday is a bit of a non-stop celebration. I celebrate my birthday throughout the entire month of June.
Some people might find this overkill or self-indulgent, and frankly, it is. I couldn’t care less; I continue to do it year after year, with no plans to stop as long as I’m still breathing.
This year as I reflected, I began thinking about some of the marvelous and unforgettable food and travel experiences I’ve had around the globe. I thought it might be fun to share a few of my favorites. People always ask, “What’s your favorite destination?” or “What was the best place you ever ate?” I admit I hate these questions because it’s so difficult to choose. But, there are some favorite things, memorable things that I think are worth sharing.
I hope that my favorites inspire you to make your own memorable experiences. Here they are in no particular order…
My Favorite Food And Travel Experiences
Barge Cruise For My 50th Birthday
Many have heard this story before. I dreamed of going on a barge cruise for my 50th for years. I imagined a small boat cruising through the canals of France with friends. We would be sipping champagne, enjoying the French countryside, eating so much great food, and of course, celebrating my birthday.
We researched, planned, and finally chose the perfect barge cruise for us. A French Country Waterways cruise in Burgundy, France. Sadly, no other friends wanted to join us. I’ll admit it was a bit pricey, but we took advantage of a “buy one, get one” promotion, which seemed like a steal to us at the time.
Adrienne France Barge Cruise
It ended up being one of my all-time favorite food travel trips. AND we became friends with the other 10 passengers onboard almost instantly. I remember people asking us why we would choose to go on such a small boat and not know anyone. Weren’t we afraid that we wouldn’t get along? What if they didn’t like us or our lifestyle? We laughed and said everyone likes us, we’ll be fine, and we were. You can read all about it here. It was one of my best foodie experiences.
Birthday celebration on the France Barge Cruise
Since then, we’ve been on two other French barge cruises. It’s a wonderfully slow way to see the French countryside, relax, and meet new people.
Ballooning and Boat Ride in Türkiye
Back in the day when I worked as a globe-trotting media consultant, one of my stops was Istanbul. The timing worked out, Diana joined me, and we spent two weeks in Türkiye. It was a journey that was filled with exploration, food tastings, and meeting some amazing people.
Ballooning in Cappadocia
The highlight of the trip was staying in a cave hotel and going on a sunrise hot air balloon trip in Cappadocia (the birthplace of Diana’s paternal grandfather). The unearthly landscape is appreciated uniquely from the quiet of a hot air balloon at sunrise. It’s worth getting up a little early to experience it.
Lunch on the gulet boat in Bodrum, Türkiye
Another memorable experience on that trip was renting a gulet (wooden boat) for half a day in Bodrum and sailing around the Aegean Sea. We had the large boat to ourselves save for the captain and his first mate, who cooked up fresh sea bream right on the deck, which we enjoyed with ice-cold Greek beer. We had a couple of swims in the sea, a nap on the deck, and an afternoon tea break. It was one of the most relaxing things we’ve ever done. When I get stressed, I think about floating on the sea, the sun shining on my face, without a care in the world. I’m instantly de-stressed.
Sue Swimming off the gulet in Bodrum, Türkiye
Food Road Trip in Yellowstone Country
In the height of our traveling for Food Travelist, we were lucky to be invited on many food and travel experience press trips, hosted trips, and sponsored trips. Sometimes we were fortunate enough to not only experience a new destination but also make lifelong friends in the process.
One of those trips was our first trip to the Yellowstone Country with our host Robin Hoover. We met Robin when she came to Chicago on a roadshow for the destination that showcased all the wonders of Yellowstone Country for travel writers. Of course, we were interested in the food they had to offer, and Robin had plenty to tell us about it. She insisted that we needed to visit and that she would be our tour guide.
Wilcoxsons Huckleberry Ice Cream Montana
We soon found ourselves buckled in a plane flying out west. It was a week-long unforgettable food tour with Robin driving us through Montana to experience Bozeman, Livingston, Big Sky, Chico Hot Springs, Big Timber, and everything in between. Pro Tip: bring your stretchy pants, there is a LOT to eat!! You can read all about our food discoveries, including my favorite, the huckleberry, right here. We even met the Governor at a wine tasting event!
Food Travelist Meeting Governor Bullock and his wife, Lisa. Robin Hoover of Yellowstone County
We loved our visit so much that we returned to Montana later the next winter to experience Yellowstone from a whole new perspective (spoiler alert: it’s amazing, quiet, and breathtaking). We highly recommend a visit at any time of year to this iconic National Park and the surrounding area.
Thanks, Robin, for introducing us to Montana, one of the best foodie destinations there is (we even considered moving there, but that’s a story for another day) and, more importantly, becoming a wonderful friend.
Thanksgiving in New York City
Years ago, when Diana was a member of the Metropolitan Club in Chicago, we took advantage of its numerous perks. One of the highlights was booking a Thanksgiving dinner at the James Beard House in New York City. Of course, we decided to make a long weekend of it. We saw the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day balloons being inflated the night before. We dined at the 21 Club (also a membership perk), saw a couple of Broadway shows, and had a grand time.
James Beard House Thanksgiving (this was all the Chefs in the kitchen)
The James Beard House Thanksgiving dinner is one we’ll never forget. Multiple chefs from all over the country shared duties in making their favorite Thanksgiving bites. There were so many cocktails and appetizers followed by so many courses, and great conversation around our table of ten. I was so stuffed that I was unable to finish the last few bites on one course, and a table mate quietly asked if I was finished. They wanted my last two bites! It was a hoot. I honestly can’t remember being as full as I was that night ever in my life. We ended up walking back to our hotel (in heels) to work off some of that delicious meal. No regrets, though. I’d do it again in a heartbeat.
Christmas Markets In Italy
It’s no secret that I love Christmas markets. I’ve been to dozens of them in Europe and the U.S. I have enjoyed every one of them. It’s a unique food and travel experience, and each market has its own charm and flavors. The German Christmas markets may be where it all started, but our road trip through Northern Italy just to explore the Christmas markets made me smile with glee.
While you could still enjoy the mulled wine, sausages, and German specialities, these markets also had Italian foods and wines that were out of this world.
Batzen Hausl Gasthaus Bolzano, Italy
One of the highlights was also going to Tres Marchetti Trattoria in Verona, where the owner was a former opera singer. He charmed us with his singing and filled us with a chef’s tasting menu we still dream about.
We also had the original Stracciatella gelato at La Marianna’s in Bergamo.
La Marianna Stracciatella ice cream Bergamo Italy
Our trip included stops in Merano, Bressanone-Brixen, Bolzano, Trento, Arco, Verona, Milan, and Bergamo. You can read all about it and plan your itinerary from it right here.
Just Go!
I admit that I loved reliving these experiences again. We’ve had many, many, many other food and travel experiences that were all wonderful. These are some of the super special, once-in-a-lifetime experiences that really stood out.
I hope that in sharing these with you, it inspires you to get out there and experience the world. Do something different. Even if it’s just taking a road trip a couple of hours from home. You’ll be surprised how much it will change your mood, change your perspective, and maybe even change your perception of the place you visit.
Wherever you go, whatever you do, go now, don’t wait!
Every year at this time of year, I still remember my experiences visiting Pearl Harbor and Normandy. Although both visits were years ago, my memories bring me back to these memorable places every year. As we celebrate Memorial Day, I hope that we all can take a moment to remember those who paid the ultimate cost of fighting for our freedoms with their lives. I also hope that people continue to travel and learn about the people and cultures in the places they visit, even here in the United States. Learning to respect and learn from each other and our different cultures, we can work together to maintain our democracy. God Bless America!
One of the things I love best about traveling is learning about the history of the places we visit. Like many others, I read books and watch films before I travel to get a better understanding of what I’m going to see. This really heightens my travel experience. It gets me excited for the journey, and I look at everything I see just a bit differently.
What Are We Remembering On Memorial Day?
When Memorial Day comes around, it’s impossible for me not to reflect on our visits to Pearl Harbor and Normandy.
Our trip years ago to Pearl Harbor happened to be right on Memorial Day. It wasn’t planned that way. We were in Hawaii and we wanted to visit Pearl Harbor during our trip. When we asked the hotel concierge about the hours and how long it would take to get there, he warned us that it would be crowded and folks would be lining up early for the Memorial Day tribute, so we should probably go another day.
Pearl Harbor USS Arizona Memorial
Looking Back
We considered it for about two seconds and decided we had to go on Memorial Day. Standing in line in the beautiful weather in Hawaii didn’t seem like that much of an inconvenience when you consider the sacrifice of all those who have served and those who now serve our country.
Pearl Harbor Memorial
Pearl Harbor Memorial Day Tradition
We set the alarm, and at 5:00 am, we made the trek to Pearl Harbor. There were about 100 people gathered waiting for the 8 am opening. As we waited, a military car drove up, and we saw an elderly man in a Hawaiian shirt and a sash with honors on it get out of the car. Murmurs went quickly through the line. The elderly gentleman was a Pearl Harbor survivor. He then began to walk the line, something he has been doing annually on Memorial Day. He shook hands with everyone, let people take pictures, and chatted with the crowd.
Military Band At Pearl Harbor
I have to admit I had a lump in my throat as I shook his hand and thanked him for his service. As it turned out, he was also the leader of the military band we would hear later that morning.
It was by far one of the most patriotic moments I’ve ever had the privilege of experiencing.
The shores of Normandy Beach
What Is The True Meaning Of Memorial Day?
Normandy
When traveling through France years ago, we drove through Normandy. Our first stop was, of course, a patisserie for morning coffee and croissants. After we grabbed our goodies, we walked through the village of Grandcamp-Maisy along the waterfront just to see what there was to see. We were just wandering around very early in the morning. As we were strolling, an older French gentleman approached us and asked in broken English if we were lost and needed help. We assured him in our even worse French that we were not and that we were fine and happy to be there. He told us that he loved the Americans and would be ever thankful for our help during the war. He wished us well and went on his way.
The American Cemetery in Normandy, France.
What an unexpected and remarkable moment. We may not often reflect on how much the United States means to other countries around the world. It truly shines as a beacon of hope still, for many. We hope against hope that it will continue to.
As we continued our exploration of Normandy, we went to the American Cemetery. We both were uncharacteristically quiet, reflecting on the many, many lives lost in this now sacred place. We watched the videos at the American Cemetery, as we had at Pearl Harbor, including real footage and interviews. You couldn’t help but feel the pride and great loss expressed by the men and women who served. Every person told their unique story and how they truly felt they were fighting for our freedom.
Is Memorial Day For Remembering Loved Ones?
It’s these memories that I reflect on and cherish during Memorial Day. I hope that, whether you’re an American or of any other nationality, you take the time on this day to remember those who fought and died for your freedom. Say a prayer or a thank you, and remember those who made the ultimate sacrifice to make this world a better place, especially as we celebrate Memorial Day.
Many of us may not be able to spend time with family and friends for Memorial Day. We can take the time to remember why it is we celebrate this most sacred American holiday. It’s not for us, it’s not about hot dogs, hamburgers, and apple pie. It’s about those we’ve lost who died to protect our freedoms and our protections. We must honor them and see to it that losing them was not in vain. Be an active citizen, vote in every election, peacefully protest, contact your government officials, and help determine the future of the country. It’s our privilege and our duty.
I was returning from taking our recycling to the bins down the street the other day when I saw a mother and her small child getting into their car. It was early in the morning, they were likely heading to work and school. What turned my head toward them was the little girl’s loud giggle. It made her Mom laugh too, and truth be told, it made me laugh as well. The woman turned to see where the other laugh was coming from, and we all laughed together, and I said, bom dia, with a big smile on my face.
I have to say that was one of the best mornings I’ve had in a long time. The laugh brought us together for just a moment of joy.
Since we are living in Portugal, mornings now mean waking up to the news from across the Atlantic. Lately, it’s not good. It’s filled with frightening, anxiety-building stories that I often don’t know if we should believe or not.
Four Years And Counting
We moved to Cascais, Portugal, on April 25th, 2021. We didn’t know when we made our plane reservations that the date was a national holiday in Portugal. The day of the bloodless Carnation Revolution, as it’s called, marked the start of Portugal’s democracy. As it turned out, it was the perfect day to arrive in our new country, our new home.
We didn’t know then what a good decision that would turn out to be. After Biden won the election in 2020, we, like many others, were happy but didn’t know what to expect beyond those four years. No one could have expected the U.S. to be where it is now. Without getting further into politics, let’s say that we’re glad we decided to move to Portugal when we did.
It’s Not All Rainbows and Unicorns
In the four years we’ve been here, we’ve seen so many articles/videos/social media posts about how moving to Portugal is easy, fast, and cheap. None of that could be further from the truth. I’m not sure what the incentive is to make these unbelievable claims. Clickbait? Monetary gain? Probably. We even sell a book, “101 Tips On Moving to Portugal and Once You Arrive,” but honestly, we don’t make much money from our friends at Amazon, and we primarily wrote the book to help others decide if making the huge decision to move to another country is really for them. It is loaded with a ton of useful information, especially at the price point of $4.99. We have also done a wee bit of consulting for people who want even more assistance.
However, we’ve kinda moved past all that. We’ve changed, as people do, in the last four years. Living in Portugal, we value our time more, realize we don’t have all the answers, and, frankly, don’t want to spend these days researching for other people. It’s not our jam. We’ll share our journey when it suits us, hope that people enjoy reading about it, and learn a little about us and the decisions we’ve made. That doesn’t mean we won’t help people when they reach out; it just means we’re not in the business of helping people move to a new country. We never were.
The main reason for moving to Portugal for us was to move somewhere we could live out our “golden years” in peace and safety among people who accepted us for who we are and whatever gifts or talents we bring with us. It wasn’t about running away, but rather going into a new phase of our lives. We were fortunate to be able to do that when we did.
We’re Not Retired
We’re both still working. The threat of losing our social security has made us concentrate on earning and saving what we can. I’m still teaching, we’re both writing, and Diana is still running her consulting and hypnotherapy businesses. We are not retired, but we’re not working full-time either. It’s a nice blend for us right now.
We still write here on Food Travelist, but not as often. As many of you know, the Google empire switched its algorithms a while back and made many of us small publishers non-existent, taking away web traffic and swiping our content to further build their kingdom. We pivoted time and time again to try and regain our ranking, but it’s a losing game. Now we’re here to share our stories with our fans, friends, family, and anyone else who happens to stumble upon us (anyone else remember StumbleUpon?).
We even saw the World’s Largest Santa in Águeda, Portugal.
Portugal is Portugal
The Portuguese bureaucracy continues to be slow, and those waiting for their residency cards or AIMA meetings can attest that patience continues to be the most important thing you bring with you to Portugal. We are now used to waiting in lines, taking numbers, and daydreaming while waiting. We’ve grown accustomed to the occasional water outage or broken garage door that can sometimes change the best-laid plans.
Overall, we’re still happy we made the move. Our original reason for moving where we did, our love of Portugal and its people, is still the same. Some Portuguese have become frustrated with the increase in immigrants and the rise in housing costs. We get it. But most welcome us and know that we bring money and, most importantly, more people into this small country with a shrinking population.
We are respectful of others. We’re not those loud Americans screaming about how “cheap” everything is here (spoiler alert: they’re not). Learning about the culture and people, and helping where we can, is very important to us.
The One Question Everyone Asks
What is the hardest part of moving and assimilating to Portugal? For us, it has been the language. While we have taken several classes, passed our A1/A2 Portuguese tests, we still struggle to have real conversations in Portuguese. As hard as we try to keep up with lessons and practicing, we just are not around enough Portuguese people to have the opportunity to learn. Portuguese friends talk to us in English, and while it’s very accommodating, it doesn’t help us learn more of the language. Portuguese shopkeepers and clerks notice our struggle and instantly change to English, wanting to practice their language learning skills.
The area that we live in is loaded with people who speak English, even more so than when we first arrived. We notice that even the local grocery store has many more English speakers roaming about, and some clerks now speak English as well.
It’s a conundrum. We’ve committed that this year we will improve our language skills, come hell or high water, stop saying, “estou a aprender português,” and know what someone is asking or saying.
And Another Thing
People ask, What do you miss from the U.S. while living in Portugal? As time goes on, we miss less and less. We have found alternatives at the grocery stores for old favorites and created new favorites here. As we’ve talked about in the past, fresh markets are loaded with wonderful produce, fish, meats, and spices. Eating seasonally is delicious and much more sustainable. Some items are only available at certain stores or markets, but you quickly learn where to find things by asking and discovering on your own.
When people now ask what they can bring us, we find ourselves saying “nothing.”
Bottom line, we miss no “things” living in Portugal, only family and friends. We’ve been fortunate to have plenty of family and friends come to visit. We hope that continues. Portugal is a terrific vacation destination. If you’re planning on coming, let us know. We’re happy to share our favorites with you and meet up if we’re in town.
From our recent trip to the Peloponnese in Greece.
Looking Forward To Living In Portugal
Like all of you, we have no clue what the future will bring. While living in Portugal, we try our best to stay healthy, visit new restaurants, travel when we can, take care of our cats, and work on things we like to do.
Costs have risen in Portugal, as they have around the world. Housing is tight and more expensive than when we first arrived. Healthcare costs are higher, and some specialty doctors – dermatologists, pulmonologists, and the like – are harder to get into than before. However, the care we get is good, and we have been very happy with our doctors, hospitals, and healthcare here in Portugal.
We are blessed to have made many good friends here in Portugal who have become family. We share holidays, old and new, with diverse people, making for wonderfully enriching cultural experiences. The Facebook group we created Queer Women and Friends In Portugal has grown to over 1,000 members. Building community here has made our lives here full and rewarding.
We have plans to travel more, explore more of Portugal, and taste everything there is to taste. We’ll see more of Europe – Spain, Greece, France, Italy, Germany – and any other places we may roam. As we get older, we continue to learn more ways to make travel easier on ourselves and the planet.
We often ponder moving to another part of Portugal to experience other areas and cultural variations. Who knows? What I do know is that we will enjoy each day to its fullest and love each other the best that we can. I can’t think of a better way to go about life.
We had the pleasure of discovering the winter in Yellowstone National Park and Montana courtesy of Yellowstone Country, Montana. All thoughts shared are our own opinions and reflect our experiences during our travels.
Vacationing in the winter. A lot of people think sun, beaches and warm weather destinations. These can provide a lovely respite for folks who live in the North American snow belt or other cold weather spots.
If you’re like us and don’t really mind putting on your layers and enjoying the colder weather, Yellowstone Country is a wonderful spot for you to consider exploring.
Snow is beautiful in Yellowstone
If you’ve read any of our stories on our summer visits to Yellowstone National Park you know that it’s a must-visit destination. America’s first national park is one that can be visited endlessly. We’ve met folks who live nearby the park and say that every time they visit they see or learn something new.
Warning: this post is about the beauty of a winter visit to Yellowstone Country. We’ll save all the delicious food and drinks we experienced for another post. Don’t worry there was plenty of it!
Winter Wonderland
The beauty of the park is enhanced not only by the pristine snow and ice but also by the fact that there are no crowds. No lines. No waiting. For someone like me who really tries to limit the amount of time I spend around lots of people, this is the perfect time to visit.
Old Faithful Yellowstone NPS
I visited the iconic Old Faithful geyser in summer and shared the experience with several hundred if not a thousand people. During this visit, we shared an eruption at Old Faithful with just a handful of people and a rogue coyote.
Here’s just a glimpse of our winter visit through Yellowstone National Park.
Coyote at Old Faithful YellowstoneMammoth Hot Springs Terraces Yellowstone National ParkMammoth Hot Springs Canary, Dryad SpringsNorris Basin Geysers Yellowstone National Park
Snow Friendly Vehicles
While visiting Yellowstone Country in the winter you will find many different types of snow coaches and can easily arrange a charter. These vehicles make it possible for visitors to get inside and around the park easily and safely.
Snow Coach in Yellowstone Park
The park’s new snow coaches use huge squishy tires for the smoothest ride ever. Their large windows make it possible for you to see everything and get great pictures without getting out of the vehicle.
Bison sharing the road in Yellowstone
Adventure travelers, don’t worry. There are plenty of stops along the way for short or long hikes into the park to see many highlights. You can arrange for the type of visit you are comfortable with and will most enjoy.
Winter Activities
The outdoor activities that are available are vast and can be customized for your level of expertise. While we were there we enjoyed snowshoeing, snowmobiling, and dog sledding. Downhill and cross-country skiing also abound in the area.
If you enjoy dogs don’t miss a chance to go dog sledding. The dogs are so excited to go and it’s fun to watch them getting ready. They bark like crazy with anticipation of the run but they are quiet and serious on the ride itself. It’s comfortable and a great way to get into the deeper woodland areas to enjoy the beautiful scenery. The company that hosted us was Spirit of the North Adventures. They work with rescued Alaskan Huskies and even offer you a chance to drive your own sled with instruction. We found all the instructors and drivers to be great lovers of the dogs and really good teachers.
Dog Sledding in Big Sky Montana
Another way to enjoy the quiet of the winter woods is snowshoeing. This was our first time and we loved it! Walking around in the woods at your own speed and taking it all in was spectacular. I’ll tell you it’s really very easy and not much different than regular walking. The shoes and the poles help you balance and make your way through the snow. You can go at your own pace and really find peace in nature. It’s quite an amazing experience and one we never expected to enjoy so much.
Snowshoeing in West Yellowstone
For those who have the need for speed (not me) snowmobiling will be your winter transportation of choice. Zooming through the woods will definitely get your adrenaline going. We snowmobiled in West Yellowstone and it is something quite different.
Snowmobiling caravan in Yellowstone NPS
Winter Creatures
We love nature and especially enjoy seeing the animals in their natural habitat. You may not get the chance to see the bears, who are hibernating in winter, but you will get a chance to see herds of bison in their element. One day we saw close to 200 bison on our journey through the park (Diana was counting).
Bison in Yellowstone Country
At the beginning of our trip, we were blessed to see big horned sheep grazing along the side of the road.
Big Horn Sheep On the side of the road Yellowstone
We saw bison, elk, sheep, coyotes, wolves, muskrats, deer, and foxes throughout our visit. Many birds were on full display swans, ducks, geese, a bald eagle, and even a blue heron.
Blue Heron in Yellowstone
Wolves at the Grizzly & Wolf Discovery Center
While you may not get to experience bears in the wild during winter in Yellowstone you can see them at the Grizzly & Wolf Discovery Center in West Yellowstone. Open all year this not-for-profit center is a wildlife park and educational facility.
Grizzly Bear at the Grizzly and Wolf Discovery Center West Yellowstone
What we liked best about the center is that all the animals have been rescued and would otherwise not have survived without the center’s help. Take the time to not only visit the animals but also watch the films, learn about all the conservation research they do, and see the exhibits. They have a wonderful gift shop, and all proceeds go directly to the care of the animals and maintenance of the center.
Romantic Accommodations
One of the best things to do in winter is snuggle and get cozy. Once you’ve spent the day enjoying all that nature has to offer outside, head to a luxurious cabin or resort for all the creature comforts you desire. Whether you prefer spa treatments, culinary feasts, wine tastings or all that and more, there are many, many options from which to choose.
Lone Mountain Ranch Fireplace in the Bathroom
One of our favorite stops was our return to Lone Mountain Ranch. They offer over 85 kilometers of groomed woodland cross-country ski trails and 30 km of snowshoe trails on the ranch. They also host sleigh ride dinners in their lantern-lit cabin with live music and delicious prime rib dinner. During the sleigh ride back to your cabin be sure you look up. You won’t want to miss the magical sparkling stars in the clear night sky.
Lone Mountain Ranch Cabin
You can also stay in Yellowstone National Park at the Old Faithful Snow Lodge or the Mammoth Hot Springs Hotel. Both are full-service properties and provide unique and very comfortable stays in the park complete with food service and amenities.
Room at the Old Faithful Snow Lodge
Keep In Mind
We highly recommend a visit to Yellowstone Country in winter but there are things you do need to keep in mind before making your reservations.
Be prepared. You’ll need to wear several layers of clothing to keep yourself warm and comfortable all day long. From a thin starter layer to a top waterproof layer to stay dry. We live in Chicago and didn’t need to buy any special clothing that we don’t use here. But if you live in a warmer climate you may need to invest in some key clothing and boot items. Warm dry feet and hands are essential to enjoying the outdoors. If you’re going to be out for extended periods of time, purchasing hand and feet warmer inserts are a great way to go.
Stay hydrated. Although there’s tons of snow around the climate is oddly dry. Be sure to take water with you wherever you go. Most places have water bottle filling stations, which we love, so bring a water bottle with you.
Plan Extra Time. Winter weather in Yellowstone Country can be unpredictable. When driving leave plenty of time for safe driving. It also takes time to put on (and take off) all those extra clothes so pit stops take longer than you’d expect.
Watch Your Step. Footwear is key to safely exploring the park. Be sure you have great winter hiking boots that provide a good grip. Again, extra time moving slowly, and walking like a penguin help keep you safe and sound.
The park is partially open. Don’t go expecting to see the entire park. Due to the amount of snow in Montana and Wyoming only certain parts and roads are open in winter. Be sure to check with the Yellowstone National Park website for updates and closures.
None of these things should stop you from going to Yellowstone in the winter. They are just things to be aware of and help you with your planning.
Plan Your Trip Today
Visiting the national parks in America is a wonderful way to see our country and an even better way to meet people from all over the country. We have now been to Yellowstone Country in the summer and the winter. Both trips have produced some of our most treasured and cherished travel memories.
Although we love the beauty and nature of Yellowstone Country the people are what really make it special. They clearly adore their national treasure and work hard to protect it for future generations to enjoy. We thank them for their service and for caring enough to do the work. Everyone is welcome in Yellowstone Country, Montana. They are willing to lend a helping hand and listen to your story.
Take the time when you’re visiting to go to a local restaurant, cafe, bakery or watering hole. Sit for a bit, listen, and ask questions. I think you’ll find a place you didn’t know existed. (I’m sorry I had to share these amazing Huckleberry turnovers. Consider it a glimpse of tasty treat stories yet to come).
Kim At Mountain Mama Cafe in West Yellowstone with her scrumptious Huckleberry Turnover
After a visit to Yellowstone Country, you might find yourself thinking as we often do, “When will we be returning?”
Go to VisitYellowstoneCountry.com for a complete travel planning guide on how to get there, where to stay, and what to do for a winter stay or any other time of the year. They have everything you need to make your visit one that you’ll enjoy to the fullest and remember for the rest of your life.
We love to visit restaurants, markets, and food shops when we travel. One of our favorite places of business to explore is the world’s best bakeries. We’ve put together just a few of the sweet gems we’ve found over the years. As an extra treat some of our food travel friends have also shared their personal favorites too. Take a read and be prepared to drool, just a little.
Worlds Best Bakeries
Paris, France
Where else in the world can you find perfect croissants, pan au chocolat, and baguettes that people are just munching right out in the street? Paris the city of light is also the city with some of the best pastries in the world.
There are really too many bakeries to list here so we’ll just tell you about a few of our favorites.
Gerard Mulot Saint Germain des Prés, 76 rue de Seine, Paris, France
Bakeries bring instant memories for us. Gerard Mulot takes me immediately to an early morning ride on a high-speed TGV train from Paris to Epernay. On our way to the champagne region we had our little pink box from Gerard Mulot. How we waited to eat our apple tartin until under way I’ll never know.
Baguettes
Everyone you talk to will have their own favorite. You’ll see people walking around Paris with baguettes sticking out of their bags, under their arms or just taking a bite out of them on the street. Do your own research and try as many as you can. Let us know which ones you like best.
Stohrer Pastry Shop 51 rue Montorgueil, Paris, France
Stoherer might be known as being the first pastry shop in Paris and they have a bakery full of all the French goodies you will come to love including baguettes, cakes, macarons, tartins and even chocolates. Opened in 1730 by Nicolas Stohrer the pastry chef for Louis XV. This bustling place will take your breath away. Be sure to stay clear of the counters if you are not ready to buy just quite yet. The locals buzz in and out grabbing their favorites take a cue from them and just say I’ll have what she’s having.
Portugal
You simply can’t go to Portugal without tasting a pastel de nata or egg tart. There may be similar tarts other places around the world but the ones in Portugal are really special. You can find them in most of the bakeries and coffee shops throughout the country. One particularly well-known bakery is Pastelaria Alcoa. It’s right across the street from the Monastery of Alcobaca in Alcobaca.
Pastel de nata egg tarts in Portugal
Northern England
When you think of English cuisine you might immediately think of Yorkshire pudding, fish and chips and the like. But there’s such more much as we discovered on our tour of Northern England.
Located in Grasmere, Lake District, Cumbria, you’ll find a tiny shop producing a delicious and unique gingerbread. Sarah Nelson’s Gingerbread Shop may only hold a few customers but don’t let that stop you from waiting in line for your little package of gingerbread. Even the British royalty has made it to this special spot. We loved this crispy cookie that is just perfect with a cup of tea so much that we brought back several packages. Safely secured in the freezer I would take out one piece to have as a special treat with my tea. I finally ate the last one a few months ago. No worries! They ship this tasty cookie around the world.
Grasmere Gingerbread Shop
Greece Loukoumades
Greece is another country that loves its coffee shops. In fact, you could say that spending hours sipping coffee and debating everything under the sun is a Greek national pastime. When in Greece you must try the loukoumades. Small fried dough drenched in honey. Sound tempting? They sure are.
One of the oldest loukoumades shops is Krinos. After doing some shopping and walking around Athens reward yourself with a plate of these sweet treats. Served with ice water on a cafeteria tray. It’s not fancy but it’s delicious.
Loukoumades Donuts in Athens Greece
Best Bakeries Recommendations From Our Some of Our Foodie Friends
This popular Minneapolis patisserie, helmed by French-trained pastry chef John Kraus, is one of my favorite bakeries in Minneapolis. It’s a neighborhood place, a cozy spot to meet friends or spend some quality alone time with your pastry. They offer coffee and some savories, but I come here to indulge in something decadent.
Patisserie 46 changes things up frequently, their display case with its spotless glass shifting shades from rose to gold and back again. They always have the best croissants in town and a selection of exquisitely crafted pastries. These miniature works of art typically include cake, a couple of tarts, and something with choux. On the homey side, coffee cake, banana bread, and big cookies appear regularly. A daily special feature eliminates boredom (though I can’t imagine that). At my last visit it was a Danish, a shiny pink sphere of guava nestled inside it.
As if it weren’t enough to be a renowned pastry chef, Kraus also is an accomplished chocolatier. The gorgeous chocolates on display were captivating. I understand from their website they make paté de fruits, which had me in raptures; I haven’t had the pleasure of eating one since I was in Paris last. Looks like you have to order a minimum of 50, so I’m out of luck there. Until I can find someone to join me in a paté de fruits feast, that is.
The croissants and I made a point of trying the plain for a change, shatter in your mouth and are light as a feather. The friend with me said it was the best croissant she’d ever had in her LIFE. Now that’s an homage.
I’ve recently become addicted to French-style macarons. I always knew they were the perfect sweet bite. But my expectations completely changed the day I walked into LB Bakery at Lord Baltimore Hotel and saw the macarons displayed in the counter. First, they were HUGE! Beautifully decorated in gorgeous colors, they are crispy and chewy on the outside and velvety on the inside. While the cookie is airy and sweet, the filling is flavored perfectly. Hands down, they are the best macarons I’ve ever had.
Whether you are staying at the glamourous Lord Baltimore Hotel or driving through Baltimore, a stop to experience anything at the LB Bakery is a treat. From their delicious breakfasts (think hot quiche and flaky croissants) to decadent desserts, everything is made fresh and with great expertise from Executive Pastry Chef Mary Plovanich. She offers a new surprise every time I visit depending on the season. The LB Bakery has a great vibe and there are many tables to relax there or you can carry-out to enjoy at home. Or do both, like I do! For me, I can never visit my favorite LB Bakery without leaving with at least one macaron.
Dominique Ansel shot to fame when he debuted the now-famous cronut, but his bakery has so much more to offer than cronuts.
From classic French baked good from croissants to toasted s’more bites, every offering is beautiful and delicious. But what made me really fall in love, was a special “dessert only” pop up Chef Ansel created that I attended. “Up – A Series of Firsts”, was a collection of baked goods and other sweet offerings with the theme of important life “firsts” – milestones such as your first words, first kiss, heartbreak, job, and more. It was so detailed and personalized, that our first course, our first words, were actually our very first words that we uttered and told the staff in advance. My favorite course was the First Heartbreak, while bittersweet, this beautiful Baked Alaska was “set on fire” upon serving. It was both dramatic and delicious.
The intimate night was incredibly special and ever since I’ve made it a point to stop into his bakery every time I’m in New York City. There isn’t a single items that isn’t tasty and baked with both precision, care and love.
Dominique Ansel Bakery
Unique Bakeries in the States
Bea’s Bakery in Tarzana, California Every single time we return to Los Angeles we have to stop in at Bea’s. We have to take home their corn rye, bagels, rugelah, and amazing butter cookies. Frankly, we want to take home everything but we’d need an entire suitcase. Our dream is that one day they will ship their products to us in Wisconsin. If you visit, stop in Mort’s Deli next door for the best breakfast and lunch in town.
Everything bagel from Bea’s Bakery
Big Timber Bakery, Big Timber, Montana Talk about small but mighty. This town of just over 1,600 has some darn good culinary delights. On your way to Yellowstone pick up some of their giant cinnamon rolls and their handmade sandwiches. Your picnic will be the envy of all the other visitors.
Mountain Mama Cafe West Yellowstone, Montana You want locally prepared food with local ingredients? Of course you do. Chef Kim at Mountain Mama Cafe is making pot pits with elk, bison, pheasant, trout, chicken and beef! But our favorite is the huckleberry turnovers straight out of the oven. She’s got a small shop just outside Yellowstone but her cooking is some of the best you’ll ever experience.
Zingerman’s Bakehouse, Ann Arbor, Michigan If you go to Ann Arbor you can’t miss Zingerman’s they are everywhere. But if you’re a bakery lover you won’t want to miss Zingerman’s Bakehouse. Some of the best bread you’ll ever have is there from delicious rye, sourdough and the very unique chocolate cherry bread.
Chocolate almond croissant The Grateful Table RosevilleBig Timber Bakery Cinnamon RollKim At Mountain Mama Cafe in West Yellowstone with her Huckleberry Turnover
Best Chicago Bakeries
I lived in Chicago for most of my 50+ years so I know there are a ton of great bakeries. Here are just a few that you can’t miss if you are visiting the Windy City.
Delightful Pastries Chicago has a huge population of Polish immigrants so there are a ton of Polish bakeries. Known for their paczki the Polish jelly pastry eaten primarily on Fat Tuesday Delightful Pastries makes more than anyone else in town. Over 30,000 during the few days right before the beginning of Lent. Executive Pastry Chef (and our good friend) Dobra Bielinski and her mom Stacia Hawryszczuk produce those and many other Polish specialties as well as breads, croissants and seasonal butter cookies and much more.
Reuters Bakery Our old neighborhood has this bakery that was formerly a German bakery. Thankfully they kept many of the recipes. Around for over 80 years this local favorite has wonderful chocolate-covered donuts, coffee cakes, sweet rolls with real fruit filling, lots of bread, cakes, and tasty butter cookies.
Fresh made paczki at Delightful Pastries.Chocolate Donut at Reuter’s Bakery
One more… If you live in the Midwest, we hope you take a lot of road trips because there are so many beautiful places to explore. One of those spots is Starved Rock. On your way be sure to stop in at the Ottawa Bakeryin nearby Ottawa. We can still remember the almond cookies we munched on. We also picked up the bakers flat bread dough that we sampled at a near by restaurant that was outstanding.
Ottawa Bakery
Bakeries in Wisconsin
Wisconsin may be the Dairyland but they have no shortage of bakeries.
Rolling Pin, Fitchburg, Wisconsin This can best be described as our new neighborhood bakery. It’s the closest one that has Russian and European bakers producing some of our favorites – even a paczki on Fat Tuesday! We love their cookies, breads and sweet rolls. They have a cute cafe too that’s great for breakfast and lunch.
Batch Bakery, Madison, Wisconsin We love a good croissant and baguette and Batch has them. If you want something on the more savory side I highly recommend the gruyere and ham croissant. Tres magnifique!
Elsie Mae’s Pies and Canning, Kenosha, Wisconsin This bakery in Kenosha is one of our faves. Elsie Mae’s buttery crust makes each and everyone better than the next. Their cookies make an excellent ice cream sandwich or taco as they call it, which you can get there too.
Rugelah at the Rolling PinBatch BakeryElsie Mae’s Pies and Cannery
Who’s craving a bakery right now? I know I am. Let us know if you’ve been to any of these bakeries or if you have one you want us to visit in the comments below.
Thank you Go Providence for hosting our recent visit. All opinions we provide are our unique views and reflect our experiences. We pledge to provide our audience with truthful and honest reviews.
Updated January 2025
We love it when we when arrive at a destination and it immediately feels like home. That was certainly the case with Providence, Rhode Island. It’s just a quick direct flight not only from Chicago but also from New York, Philadelphia, Washington D.C., Denver, Orlando, Atlanta, Detroit and many others. The PVD Green Airport is perfectly sized to get in and out easily. You can quickly get to downtown Providence in just minutes.
The people in Providence welcome you with open arms. Everyone is welcome. We can easily call this a judgment-free town. And we just love that. Every person we met was friendly and happy to answer our endless questions about the best food around town. And they all had some great ideas. There is certainly no lack of good eats in this town!
We talked to the locals, the experts, and everyone in between, and here, in our opinion, are the top 12 best places you have to try on your visit to Providence.
One thing you’ll learn about Providence as soon as you start asking around is this town has a lot of Italian influence. They love their Italian food and there’s plenty to choose from. A spot that has us still dreaming about our visit and all the wonderful dishes we tried is Bacaro. Each dish was better than the last. One of the unique things we loved most about Bacaro is that you can eat in whatever style you feel like at the time. Do you want just appetizers? Great. Feel like a board with selections of their cheeses and meats? How about pizza? Hungry for a full meal with satisfying main entrees? All are available for you. You decide. And whatever you decide, it will be delicious.
We loved the Pasta Con i Funghi, a fresh egg tagliatelle made with butter and Parmigiano-Reggiano cheese, white truffle-scented egg, mushroom duxelles, and crushed red pepper. I could eat this dish every day. We also tried the steak frites and it was perfect. High-quality wood-grilled steak with the thinnest, crunchiest potatoes was a great combination. If you like grilled pizza give theirs a try. Thin crispy crust with the finest ingredients makes it a real winner. Chef Brian Kingsford learned how to make it at the legendary Italian restaurant Al Forna, less than a mile away. He’s perfected his own recipes and I can’t wait to visit again and try them all. Leave room for their homemade ice cream churned fresh daily. The Grappa-scented custard-filled Bombolini also provides a tasty little treat. The service is friendly and impeccable and the ambiance is, like the food, whatever you’re in the mood for. People were wearing everything from plaid lumberjack shirts to jackets and ties. Come as you like, eat what you like, and enjoy yourself immensely, just like we did. You will certainly have a delicious meal and a great time.
Bacaro’s Steak topped with egg served with side salad and shoestring potatoes.
Another Providence stable is seafood – fresh seafood. Being so close to the ocean definitely has its perks. Located right in the center of town this popular spot is a convenient and enjoyable place to eat after visiting the RISD Museum, after Waterfire (another Providence must-do) or just out strolling around the town.
Chef Max Peterson brings in only the freshest and best seafood Rhode Island has to offer. One of the many delicious offerings that you absolutely must try is their Rhode Island-style calamari. It’s made at Hemenway’s with Port Judith squid, hot peppers, garlic, and butter with a light and crispy coating. It’s so addictive that we just couldn’t stop eating it!
Calamari with peppers at Hemenway’s in Providence
But that’s just the beginning. Whether you sidle up to the raw bar or make a whole evening out of sampling from their menu, you really can’t go wrong. They have many classic dishes like a fantastic wedge salad, Rhode Island style clam chowder, garlicky escargot, and more. If you just can’t decide, go all out and order the Shellfish Platter with cold baby lobster, jumbo shrimp cocktail, oysters, and littleneck clams. There should be something there for everyone to enjoy. We also couldn’t resist trying one of their most popular options, the Surf and Turf. The fun thing about it is that you can create your own combination of a meat and seafood option, so we went all out choosing the Angus Filet Mignon and Lobster (you can order 1.25 lbs. up to 5 lbs!) If you’re adventurous you can pick apart the whole lobster yourself. Or, if you prefer, they’ll do all the hard work for you in the kitchen and bring you the lobster’s best without the mess.
Again, the service was ridiculously great. We learned a lot of history, some of the local lore, ideas of where to go and what to do, and much, much more. So sit back, relax, and enjoy. Locals and visitors have been coming to Hemenway’s for years, another reason it’s a must-visit while in Providence.
This is one place that kept coming up with many of the locals we chatted with – especially one particular UBER driver. He told us to go and ask for the manager and tell him the UBER driver sent you. It was funny and he was insistent, so we did! Even funnier, it didn’t matter. Everyone we saw at the restaurant got the same delicious food, huge quantities and attentive service. This authentic Peruvian and Bolivian cuisine restaurant will really knock your socks off.
We can’t emphasize this enough – be sure to arrive hungry. The meals they serve are substantial. Even if you share an entree you will most likely have food to take home. Ceviches, empanadas, salads and soups will get you started. You’ll love the Asian influence of the Chaufa de Pollo or Chaufa De Res. Chifa influenced wok fried rice, infused with kion, sautéed with strips of chicken or sirloin steak, kiko soy, eggs and finished with scallions. Try the Churrasco al Gaucho with 16 oz. Angus grilled ribeye served with ensalada rusa, fried yucca and rice. There are also many wonderful seafood dishes like tasty paella and jalea, a Peruvian fisherman seafood medley. They also make all their desserts from family recipes so you must save room for just a bite. Our server was from Peru and proudly explained all the subtleties of the offerings with a smile and a story. It was a wonderful experience.
No list from Food Travelist is complete without at least one bakery and in Providence, it’s Ellie’s. Whether you’re looking for breakfast, lunch, or just something to satisfy your sweet tooth, you’re sure to find it at Ellie’s. Their hearty sandwiches, fresh salads, and signature breakfast sandwiches will make you and your tummy happy.
Pro Tip: Don’t miss Ellie’s French macarons. Each month they do a seasonal selection of three different flavors inspired by a theme. some unique flavors have included grape hazelnut, spiced pear and lemon lavender. Each tasty bite is a special treat.
We had a chance to taste some of their delicious offerings, including a flavorful bruschetta and a decadent chocolate financier as part of the Rhode Island Red Food Tour we took during our visit. Both were incredibly delicious. It was a perfect first stop on our half-day tour. What an impressive start! If you’re looking for a way to taste and drink your way around Providence we highly recommend one of their tours. Just be sure you don’t eat before you go because you’ll need all the room your stomach can hold – and your biggest stretchy pants – on this robust tour. You’ll also get a large dose of fun history, local lore, and insights, art, and culture during your fun exploration of downtown Providence.
Ellie’s Bakery Chocolate Financier Providence Rhode Island
Whether you’re just looking for a small snack or a full-filling meal Tallulah’s Taqueria is a fantastic place to try. We love that this eatery is tucked into a fabulous neighborhood on the East Side of Providence. One of the things about Providence that is great for travelers (and for locals) is that the city is walkable. We loved wandering around and discovering little shops, bars, and restaurants in this fun part of town.
Tallulah’s came highly recommended and it didn’t disappoint. Customize your tacos any way you’d like with fresh seasonal ingredients. They call it “Chicano Cuisine on the go” and plenty of locals stopped in and left with their take-home bag of joy, but there’s also space to eat inside and a cute outdoor area for enjoying your nibbles. Tacos, burritos, tortas, quesadillas, bowls – they have it all. If you want to get your authentic Mex on, this is the place to do it deliciously.
Sometimes all you need is a great cocktail and Providence has you covered with the Eddy. We met our friends Brittany and Derek for a drink and ended up staying for hours. They had me as soon as I walked in and heard 70s Motown playing. Hopefully, the Britt’s didn’t mind me interrupting our conversation from time to time with some of my favorite lyrics from Marvin Gay to The Temptations.
They’ve got “snacks” that we’d call upscale bar food, including meat and cheese boards, sliders, oysters, and desserts. I can’t believe I missed the onion dip. I guess we need another visit. Where the Eddy really shines though is in its unique and tasty cocktails. You know you’re in for something special just reading the cocktail names on the menu. Orange Julius Caesar, The Honey Badger, Orange You Glad I Didn’t Say Carrot (which was excellent, by the way), and the Hills Are Alive are just a few of the ever-changing array of options. They have so many unique and memorable drinks. Go out on a limb and try something you normally wouldn’t. You’ll be glad you did.
They also have an extensive list of local craft beer. Who can say no to a Miller High Life pony? Perfect if you want just a little chaser. And, of course, their wine list is worldly and comprehensive as is their list of global spirits. Whether you want to chill before moving on or wind down the night with a drink and a bite, the Eddy will put a smile on your face with its irresistible good nature, friendly ambiance, and fun fare.
If you’re gonna be out late drinking or not you must stop by the Providence classic Olneyville New York System Wiener. Every food writer and TV personality from here to Kingdom Come has been there. It could practically be its own Food Network Channel.
First off, you need to know that these are no ordinary hot dogs. They don’t even call them hot dogs and neither should you. The correct term is Hot Wieners. And these are claimed to be Rhode Island’s best! Their unique dog starts with a natural-cased wiener, a steamed hot dog bun, yellow bran deli-style mustard, chopped Spanish onions, celery salt, soybean oil, and all topped with their famous ground beef sauce.
You’ll see them made right in front of you and it’s a lot of fun to watch. You need big hands if you’d want to work there. They prep those puppies three at a time! Operating in Rhode Island since the late 1930s the original Greek family, the Stevens, still operate two of restaurants. This is a great place to sit at the counter and chat with locals. On our visit, we met a guy who had his very first date with his wife there in the 50s and remembers using the phone booth in the back. Great stories, great people, great food, great fun. Don’t miss it even though it’s a little off the beaten path. We love that anyway, don’t you?
Olneyville New York System Weiner Providence Rhode Island
Another great place for breakfast or lunch is Sydney Providence. Yes, that’s Sydney as in Australia, the destination that inspired this comfy little cafe and coffee shop. We loved the vibe of this place. Low-key, casual, open space perfect for a relaxing munch or meeting.
They have a great avocado toast for sure, but go rogue and try the ricotta toast. The fresh fruit and light ricotta offer a delicious twist for a great morning starter. The bread is chewy, crunchy, rustic, and simply perfect. There are plenty of great beverages, lunch items, and bakery specialties too. We can see how this would be a perfect place to do your crossword and relax with your treats or grab something wholesome and tasty for the road.
When everyone you meet tells you to have brunch at Nick’s On Broadway, well, you go. And you should. You may have to wait a bit but don’t stress. Have a seat at the bar and order a bloody Mary, breathe in and out, relax, and enjoy. Think about the amazing food you’re going to be eating in a short while and smile. You might want to study the menu while you’re waiting. Frankly, there are just too many good choices and you’ll want to look through them all before you decide on just a few.
You gotta love a place that says, “Nicks specializes in seasonally inspired, locally-focused food, put forth humbly with thoughtfulness, passion, and honesty.” We sure did!
Every dish bursts with fresh local and seasonal flavors. Although we loved the veggie omelet, pancakes and more you simply cannot skip having a breakfast dessert here. The Chocolate Chiffon cake with Schartner Farm blackberries, coffee ice cream, caramel, and whipped cream was delectable. Also be sure not to miss their English Muffins, which are thick and yummy. And if you’re a tea lover like me they’re serving local loose teas from Farmacy Herbs. Give them a try because their tea is excellent and worth seeking out. Just as is Nick’s On Broadway. Just like everyone told us, we’re going to tell you. Go. Have brunch at Nick’s On Broadway. Go.
Their slogan “Good doughnuts made well” pretty much says it all. I’m not gonna lie. When you walk in Knead Donuts and see all the doughnuts in front of you the chance that you’ll get a little light-headed is very high. Where to start?
They have old-fashioned, cake, and brioche style, filled and fritter style goodies. They also offer vegan Sunday through Tuesday and flourless options on Saturday and Sunday.
The flavors and fillings change seasonally so you’ll want to stop in and pick up some of your favorites, old and new. While we were there we noticed that they pack up donuts in pretty little boxes for special occasions and delivery. What a treat that would be! Also if you’re hankering for ice cream they make a doughnut ice cream sandwich that looks decadent and yummy. We watched a young lady at a nearby table in their cute little sit-down area devour it with delight. We loved watching the selfies she took of the experience, so you know we were deliriously happy at the time.
Knead Donuts Providence
This list is by no means where your food discovery will end in Providence. It’s just the beginning. Stroll up and down the streets, explore the various neighborhoods, and let yourself be the free spirit that Providence encourages to be sure you don’t miss anything. If you like what you see so far, stay tuned. We’ll also be sharing our favorite places to visit and stay while in Providence.
To learn more about Providence and to plan your visit check out GoProvidence.com.
New Revised & Updated eBook by Diana Laskaris & Sue Reddel the “Food Travelists”
101 Insider Tips to Help You Make the Right Choice!
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The opening ceremonies of the 2024 Summer Olympics are set to begin on July 26th. Even non-sports fans will be excited to catch glimpses of the City of Light as the events get underway.
Screenshot
Like us, you may be wondering the best way to celebrate the start of the Paris Olympics in fine French style. We chose one of our favorite French cocktails to toast the athletes the tasty Kir Royale.
Even if you’re not interested in the Olympics, no worries. This cocktail is the perfect aperitif any day of the week.
While there are many different types of Kir Royales we’re sharing our favorite recipe.
It’s important to make sure the sparkling wine is completely chilled. You may add Chambord or any other flavored liquor you prefer.The cocktail should have a lovely blush color. If you prefer a sweeter cocktail add a bit more liquer. Garnish with raspberries or any other berry that you enjoy.
Course: Drinks
We have enjoyed many different alternatives to this tasty French cocktail. Adding limoncello makes it a bit Italian and adding ginjinha cherry liqueur makes it a little Portuguese.
Any way you mix it is sure to be a tasty way to celebrate the Olympics and cheer on your favorite athletes while dreaming of Paris. Let the games begin!
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A lot of planning and research goes into traveling. One of the things we don’t want you to forget about is how to travel sustainably. Just take a few extra minutes to consider how you can travel with a little less impact on our precious planet.
What Does Travel Sustainably Mean?
It means that when you travel you think of your impact on the planet and the places you’d like to visit. When you’re making your plans there are a few things that you can do to lighten the load on this world we call home.
Here are some of our favorite tips for more sustainable travel.
Take A Train Instead of A Plane
You might be surprised that taking a train uses significantly less energy than taking a plane. Train trips may take a bit longer but it will give the time to unwind, watch the scenery go by, read a book, or even take a cat nap.
Rail Europe Double Decker Train
If you simply have to fly, book a non-stop flight when you can. This will help decrease your carbon footprint.
Walk, Bike, or Take Public Transportation
Once you arrive at your destination get to know your new place by walking, biking, or taking the local transportation. You don’t always need to rent a car. Learn how the locals get around and follow suit.
Coast Rental Bikes in St. Petersburg Florida
Our favorite thing to do in a new destination is to walk around and go down the smaller streets, checking out small shops and restaurants. We wandered off the main streets during our last visit to Paris and found some beautiful uncrowded parks and restaurants. It was lovely.
Bring Reusable/Refillable Containers
We always travel with our water bottles (it’s safe to drink the water throughout Europe and most countries, but check to be sure) and refill them often. A lot of people seem to like to carry around huge water bottles. I’m a fan of lightweight ones, especially for travel. This water bottle from GSI is microlight and keeps water or any beverage cold or hot for hours. I’ve had mine for years. It’s been everywhere and still is like new.
GSI Microlight Water Bottle
Pro Tip: Take the bar of soap, unused shampoo and toiletries with you when you check out. You can use them on the rest of your trip or at home. They will be thrown out so why not use them!
Bring along reusable shopping bags for your shopping days. They also are great to have in case you need a little more room to bring your lunch along or extra goodies back with you from your travels. We always carry our foldable shopping bags. They fit easily in a pocket, purse, or backpack and many come with a handy little pouch to keep them nice and neat.
If you have cosmetics or toiletries you use regularly, get refillable travel-size bottles and keep them in your travel bag.
Consume Water Responsibly
Be sure to find out the current situation on water wherever you visit. Here in Portugal, many areas are often in a drought status. You don’t want to add to the problem, so take shorter showers and turn off the water while brushing your teeth. Hang up and reuse your towels (do you use clean towels at home daily?).
Support Local Businesses
Buying from local shops and local producers reduces the energy spent bringing items to the destination. Shopping at the local market and trying out food grown and raised nearby is also a great way to get to know what’s available and different while you visit.
Be sure to ask restaurants about their local specialties what local ingredients they are using and if they are sustainably sourced.
As you know, we’re focused on helping you discover the joy of “Deliciously Mindful Travel.” Supporting the local economy, experiencing the flavors of the community, and getting to know the residents are wonderful ways to start.
Here are a few resources to help:
Dine Green – their mission “shift the restaurant industry toward ecological sustainability.”
The Sustainable Restaurant Association – has a “vision of creating a clear intersection between the sustainable food movement and the hospitality industry.”
EatWith.com dine with locals! Have a culinary experience in the home of a local, take a food tour, or enjoy a cooking class.
Stay Longer
Traveling from destination to destination in an effort to see as much as you can is tiring and also takes more energy. There is no better thing you can do than spend more time in one destination. Take a deep dive into what makes each place unique and special. Go to a local concert or a play and root out the unexpected and unmarketed local restaurants that locals cherish. Take your time, slow down, and truly get to know the place.
Choose A Destination That Cherishes Travel Sustainability
When you begin your planning, look for places to value sustainability for its residents as well as its visitors. There are many websites and much research has been done around sustainability around the world.
Many destinations now talk about their sustainability programs on their tourism websites. Be sure to look for that as you plan.
Many, many articles have been written about cities and countries that are the “most” sustainable. Honestly, it’s a monumental task to try to root out the most accurate information. This guide from Green.org is a pretty good place to start.
Stay in a Sustainable Hotel
Many hotels, inns, and bed and breakfasts now focus on being more sustainable. You’ll need to do a little homework but we think it’s worth the effort.
Here are a few resources to help you choose:
Booking.com has a sustainability certification filter that allows you to choose property options that are certified as sustainable.
EcoHotels.com finds eco-certified hotels on this platform that plant one tree for every booking. More benefits if you create a profile and become a member.
Green Key Portugal – if you’re traveling to Portugal be sure to check out this guide. It includes hotels, rentals, restaurants, and more that are sustainable tourism in Portugal.
TripAdvisor – Save on top-rated hotels on Tripadvisor. Find the GreenLeaders by looking for the green leaf on the properties listing page to see what green practices they have in place.
Visit During Off-Season or Shoulder Season
If you’re visiting a spot that is very popular and suffers from over-tourism try planning your trip in the off-season or shoulder season before or after the peak season. You’ll enjoy your visit with fewer visitors and see it in other seasons that will be just as lovely.
Granted many destinations don’t have much of a break any longer, but you can typically find a time of year when they are less visited. Portugal for example is not as busy in the winter months. You do risk experiencing the rainy season but you also get to enjoy the cooler weather and fewer crowds.
We visited Yellowstone National Park in the winter. It was unbelievably peaceful and being among only a few visitors made it even more special.
Visit Lesser Known Destinations
The next time you have the urge to visit a popular destination take a look at a map and look for other places nearby. Paris is lovely but typically jammed with tourists especially this year with the Olympics. Check out Toulouse, Montpellier or Reims. Each has its own distinct features and attractions. They are undeniably French with exquisite food and local charm worth exploring.
Pack Light
Most of us overpack. Consider using a packing list to keep yourself from throwing in one more thing you most likely won’t need. Keep to a simple color palate so that you can easily mix and match your outfits. One nice-looking scarf can help perk up an outfit or help keep you warm on a chilly night.
Lightening your load makes it easier on you and on the planet. Using packing cubes is another way to organize and reduce your packing. The latest compression packing cubes let you pack just a little more, too.
Buy Only What You Need
Take it from someone who has downsized two homes. Carefully consider what you need to purchase when traveling. Sometimes we all get caught up in the moment and find ourselves buying something as a keepsake or buying that souvenir that ends up in a drawer.
If you want to buy a memento, get something special like a piece of artwork that will always bring back a happy memory or a special taste of a place you can’t get at home. I used to collect unique travel magnets but after realizing I had a 20-pound box of them I knew it was time to stop. I gave them to my niece and nephew along with a globe. My hope is that they learn a little bit about geography from them.
Now when I go to buy anything I always ask myself, “Do I need this?” The answer is typically, no.
We hope that when you start to make any travel plans you consider the impact that your trip and you have on the world. Making a few slightly different choices to travel sustainably can make a big difference. Happy travels!
