Sue Reddel

In Blog

AARP Food And Travel Discounts

If you love food and travel, you gotta love discounts. We all like to save money and stretch our budgets. I recently went to the AARP Life At 50+ National Event in Miami and learned all about their benefits and discounts. If you’re over 50 you are eligible for an AARP card. This card does not mean you’re old. This card helps provide opportunities and information that just might help you imagine your food+travel dreams. Plus your spouse or partner gets a free membership!

You don’t even need to be fifty to apply, that’s right, take advantage of the savings as soon as you can.

Here are just some of the vendors that AARP works with to provide their members savings:

AARP FOOD AND TRAVEL DISCOUNTS

TRAVEL

Cruises Check out cruises on Expedia, Collette River Cruises and Grand European Travel. Save $50-100 off with your AARP card.

Vacations by Rail Offers hundreds of railroad vacations in the United States, Canada, Europe and Beyond! Whether you’re looking to explore the National Parks of the U.S. or visit Vienna, Prague and Budapest, Vacations by Rail can build a vacation for you. Save 5% with your AARP card.

Grand Canyon Railway if you’re dreamed of seeing the Grand Canyon by train you can save 15% off tickets and hotel stays.

Grand European Travel Professional tour guides make your travels smooth and extra special. Save $100 off guided vacations with your AARP card plus a FREE travel gift.

Hilton This includes all the Hilton brands: Hilton, Waldorf Astoria, Conrad, Canopy, CURIO, DoubleTree, Embassy Suites, Hilton Garden Inn, Hampton, Homewood Suites, Home2 Suites by Hilton, Hilton Grand Vacations and the Hilton HHonors program. Over 4,300 hotels in 2,00o cities worldwide. Save up to 10% with you AARP card.

Hyatt Hotels Including Andaz, Hyatt House, Hyatt Place, Hyatt Regency, Grand Hyatt Hyatt Centric, Park Hyatt, Hyatt Residence Club and more. Save up to 10% off with your AARP card.

Best Western Save 5% to 10% off your room with your AARP card.

Choice Hotels Including Ascend Hotel Collection, Cambria, Comfort Inn, Comfort Suites, Sleep Inn, Quality, Clarion, MainStay Suites, Suburban, Econologde and Rodeway Inn. Save up to 10% off with your AARP card.

Wyndham Hotels and Resorts Including Wyndham Grand Hotels and Resorts, Wyndham Garden Hotels, Hasthorn Suites by Wyndham, Dream Hotels, Ramada Worldwide, Baymont Inn & Suites, Days Inn, Super 8, Howard Johnson, Travelodge, Tryp and Knights Inn and more. Save up to 20% off with your AARP card.

Avis and Budget rent-a-car offers up to 30% savings on all vehicles with your AARP card. Plus FREE upgrade on compact through full-size class bookings and one additional driver fee waived.

GOLF

TEEOFF.com I just discovered this site through AARP. Save 15% off your next tee time. They also offer DEAL TIMES that are even bigger savings if you have some flexibility on when you want to play. Fore!

FOOD

Schwan’s Save $20 off your first order on Schwans.com

The Oceanaire Seafood Room, McCormick & Schmick’s, Landry’s, Chart House Save 10% off every day with your AARP card.

Denny’s 10% off your entire check all day, every day with your AARP card.

Corner Bakery 10% off your entire check every day with your AARP card.

Outback Steakhouse Save 10% off lunch and dinner every day with your AARP card.

Claim Jumper Save 10% off every day with your AARP card.

Dunkin’ Donuts get a donut with purchase of any large or extra large beverage with your AARP card or 10% discount with your AARP card.

Steak and Shake 10 percent discount for customers over 50.

Ben & Jerry’s 10 percent discount to customers over 60.

Chili’s 10 percent discount for customers 55 plus.

Fisherman’s Wharf 10 percent discount with AARP card.

Check their website for the complete list there are over 55 restaurant deals available.

What are you waiting for go to AARP.org and sign up today. Discounts and deals are just a few of the savings available with your AARP card. Offers change and are updated frequently. Be sure to check AARP.org for all the latest details as deals and vendors change often.

QUICK BITE: If you’re over 50 and looking for some ways to save money on food and travel get an AARP membership for only $16.00 and start taking advantage of the savings today!

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In Blog

Birthday Month: My Life After 50 It Only Gets Better

By Sue Reddel

Those of you who have known me for a while know that I celebrate my birthday every year with birthday month. Those who have experienced birthday month know that I’ll be driving everyone crazy every day of June.

One year I celebrated Birthday Month by going out to eat with someone different EVERY day of June. I had 30 meals some with folks I see frequently and some with people I hadn’t seen in years. It was lots of fun but my crazy June schedule and my waistline say please don’t do that again this year.

This year I’ve decided to share a different thought every day on Facebook on what I’ve learned in my 56 years of life. I’m hoping that these thoughts will inspire you, encourage discussion and most importantly make you smile. There just don’t seem to be enough smiles in the world right now. If you’d like to see them just like or follow me on Facebook.

Birthday celebration on the France Barge Cruise

When I turned 50 a few years back I planned and researched a trip of a lifetime. We took a barge cruise through Burgundy, France and everything about the trip was just about perfect. We had just started to think about writing about travel and launched PoshPorts. Since it was brand new we weren’t taking a million pictures and interviewing everyone like obsessed bloggers. We actually enjoyed every minute of the trip. Thank God. I didn’t know what lay ahead. To be sure the places I’ve been have been fun, weird, unusual and spectacular. I wouldn’t change my decision to quit my corporate job and start my entrepreneurial journey for anything. But 7 years ago, I didn’t have a clue of what was in store for me.

The 14-hour days, the self-doubt, the endless work that no one could do but me. Let’s just say it’s not for everyone. Some of the qualities that made me successful in my ad agency life translated very well to food travel blogging. I’m a good communicator. I am extremely resilient. Although I’m a Cancer crab and like things to be organized and orderly I’m oddly adept at adjusting, learning and fixing things as I go along. This is invaluable, especially if you’ve ever run a website or tried to keep up with the ever-changing social media landscape. If I couldn’t bounce back and move forward I would have probably stopped long ago.

One thing about getting older is that although you may get a bit slower, a bit more sore after spending the day in the garden, and a tad forgetful you do get a lot smarter. You begin to understand the things your Mother, Grandmother and Uncle told you when you were growing up and know that their wisdom came from their experiences, their age and love. I now find myself saying similar things to my nieces and nephew hoping that they’ll understand but knowing they too have to learn many things on their own in their own time.

One of the things about getting smarter is paying attention to things that make my life easier. A lot of people may roll their eyes but I joined AARP when I turned 50. I know many people get those notices in the mail long before their 50th birthday and toss them out. Like that can stop you from actually becoming 50. If there’s anything that us baby boomers have done correctly is age. We’re not our mother’s and father’s 50. We’re active, for better or worse we’ll be working for a long time, we pay attention, and we get involved – in everything.

I got my AARP card and read the magazine when it came because who could resist the cover stories on some of my favorites like Robin Roberts, Bruce Springstein and many others. But that was about it.

When AARP contacted me to join them at the Life At 50+ National Event in Miami a few months ago, I wasn’t sure what to think. My blogger self said YAH! trip to Miami, my other self said wait am I old? Fortunately, after reviewing what to expect at the conference my blogger self won out and I enthusiastically accepted their generous invitation to put me up at The Palms Hotel + Spa on South Beach and introduce me to their Life At 50+ National Event.

Life After 50 Plus AARP Conference — Life Af 50 Plus AARP National Event in Miami

When I arrived at the Life At 50+ National Event for the first time I have to admit I was blown away. First off it was huge, taking up the majority of the Miami Convention Center. The crowd was energetic and fun.

Dancing At Life At 50 AARP National Event in Miami

Learning how to salsa, picking up fitness tips, and researching their next vacation. There were hoots and howls throughout the convention center as vendors spun wheels for giveaways ranging from pens to trips. This was not my idea of a “seniors” conference. There were presentations on how to use social media to keep in contact with family, how to manage money, retirement, and healthcare issues. Heck, even our friend Carla Hall was there talking about Money & Work. Samantha Brown spoke on Planning the Perfect Trip For All Generations. There were newly released movies at the Movies for Grownups Film Festival and even an AARP Superstar competition which was an American Idol-type singing competition judged by Chaka Khan and Kenny Loggins! They offered wonderful volunteer opportunities to help feed, clothe, and house people in the Miami area. There were so many things going on I couldn’t possibly get to them all in the time that I had.

As I worked my way around the pavilion I learned that I was wasting my AARP card. I have phone service from AT&T and didn’t know that my $16.00 AARP membership earned me a 10% discount. What!?! I also rent a business mailbox from UPS didn’t know that I wasn’t taking advantage of a 15% discount there either. So much for feeling smarter!

Turns out this was just the tip of the savings. The AARP membership card offers discounts on food, travel, shopping, entertainment, health, and much, much more. Check out AARP Discounts for the complete list.

AARP’s slogan is “Real Possibilities.” I loved that there was a booth that asked attendees to think about their own possibilities. When are you at your best? What do you want to be remembered for? What would you try if you knew you couldn’t fail? It’s never too late to explore the possibilities of your life. The Life At 50+ National Event was full of so many real possibilities and reminders that truly the best is yet to come. It was the first time for me to experience the AARP possibilities and I’m really hoping it’s not the last.

When that red and white card ends up in your mailbox be sure to look at it again. It’s not a sign that your life is half over, it’s a sign that your life is just beginning. I changed my life at 50 and you can too. Just be sure to take your AARP along for the ride you might be surprised at the places it will take you.

QUICK BITE: Our Co-Founder Sue Reddel gets ready to celebrate Birthday Month. She shares some of the lessons life has taught her as well as her journey to AARP’s Life After 50+ National Event.

I’ve also done a full report on all the AARP Food and Travel Discounts so you do have to miss a thing!

In Americas

Top 10 Best Things to Do in Oak Park, Illinois

By Sue Reddel

Just a short drive or train ride away from downtown Chicago, Oak Park, Illinois is a quaint town that was once home to Ernest Hemingway and Frank Lloyd Wright and still pays homage to their creative genius.

There are so many things to do in Oak Park it is worth the journey whether you’re a visitor or Chicago native. We’re highlighting just a few of the reasons everyone should visit beautiful Oak Park.

Top 10 Best Things To Do in Oak Park, Illinois.

A few tips to keep in mind before starting your adventure.

*Take the Green Line if you’re coming from Downtown Chicago. It’s easy and yes, it’s safe. Many people live in Oak Park because they work downtown and don’t want to live in the city. Oak Park is the first suburb west of the city. It’s best known as a quiet, colorful, cultural hub since its inception.

*Wear comfy shoes. You’ll want to walk everywhere. It’s a relatively small area to cover but you can put in some miles admiring all those Frank Lloyd Wright houses and adding any unexpected shopping stops you may want to make.

* Bring your smile and relax. The local shopkeepers are lovely people willing to help and make sure you get what you’re looking for. There are many small shops that you can spend hours in if you’re not careful. The pace is slower than downtown so relax, have that extra cup of coffee and enjoy yourself.

1. Great Breakfast in Oak Park

Whether you’re looking for a full-on breakfast or a quick bite, Oak Park has a spot for you. If you start out on Oak Park Ave and Lake Street you’ll have many choices. Try Red Hen Bread for coffee, pastries, croissants, and more baked fresh daily. You can always grab a muffin or brownie for later too. If you’re looking for a full breakfast, head down Lake Street west to Delia’s Kitchen at 1034 Lake Street. Their menu is so good it’s awfully hard to pick just one item. I would highly recommend the Vegetarian Benedict. Two perfectly poached eggs atop potato pancakes covered with spinach, sauteed mushrooms, and their own house-made hollandaise sauce. Delicious!

2. Visit Ernest Hemingway’s Home and Museum, 200 North Oak Park Avenue

If you love Hemingway you’ll want to tour Hemingway’s Home and Museum, his birthplace home. Be sure to check hours as they are a bit tricky. Right down the street is the Hemingway Museum, which is the home of rare photos and artifacts including the infamous letter from nurse Agnes von Kurowshy, which was portrayed in A Farewell to Arms terminating their engagement.

3. Visit Frank Lloyd’s Home and Studio, 951 Chicago Avenue

The Frank Lloyd Wright Home and Studio with over 20 Frank Lloyd Houses in town this is probably the most popular stop in Oak Park and a must-see for FLW fans. This important landmark was built for his family and his studio. The guided tours by trained docents provide great insight into Wright’s design concepts and architectural philosophy. If you have the time spring for the advanced tour (1 hour and 30 minutes) it’s well worth the $25 and you get to see the studio as well as the house. If you’re really ambitious take the in-depth tour which includes a walking tour through the neighborhood including the Unity Temple. Or go on your own town it’s easy enough and there are plenty of walking maps and tours available. They sell maps at the gift shop in the home and studio as well. One tip if you plan to take photos on the house tour it’s an additional $5. Keep in mind that all the funds go FLW Foundation which keeps up all FLW properties. Which you will learn is quite an accomplishment.

4. Stroll Down Lake Street

Lake Street runs through “downtown” Oak Park. Oak Park is a very walkable area. You can start out at Hemingway’s House, wander down Lake Street, and then head over to FLW’s home. If you walk down the side streets you’ll be treated to more of FLW’s designs. Pick up a map of all the FLW homes at the house or grab an audio tour to get all the history about the area and the FLW homes.

5. Eat Lunch

There are so many choices it’s wonderful! Just in the few blocks on Lake Street, you can choose from Mediterranean, Italian, Indian, Greek, Venezuelan, Chinese, and more. Here are some of our favorites: Jerusalem Cafe for terrific chicken or beef shawarma, kabobs, and falafel. If you haven’t had the chance to eat the obligatory Chicago pizza, there’s a Lou Malnati’s on Lake Street where you can get their famous deep-dish pizza or tasty thin crust. To get the true Chicago experience make sure you get the butter crust.

Lou Malnati's Pizza Oak Park IL — Lou Malnati’s Pizza Oak Park IL

6. Visit Austin Gardens Park

Just a few blocks from Frank Lloyd Wright’s Home and Studio is the Austin Gardens Park. This little park is a quiet sanctuary. Grab a book or your lunch and take a relaxing rest under a tree. You’ll find that you leave city bustle and your worries very far behind.

Frank Lloyd Wright Sculpture in Austin Garden Oak Park

7. Eat Petersen’s Ice Cream

All this walking and relaxing makes me want ice cream. Two blocks from FLW’s home is Petersen’s Old Fashioned Ice Cream. While you’re deciding what flavor you want to check out the old photos of their humble beginnings. This fabulous ice cream shop was started in 1919 by Hans Petersen, who brought his 18% butterfat ice cream recipe from Denmark. They’ve been serving it up ever since.

Petersen's Ice Cream in Oak Park — Petersen’s Ice Cream in Oak Park

8. Shopping in Oak Park, Illinois

You’ll find enough restaurants, candy shops, bookstores, clothing boutiques, gift shops, and more to keep you busy for several hours. Be sure to swing down Marion Street. You won’t want to miss the little shops there too.

9. Watch A Movie

One of the things that always attracts me to small towns is the theater on “Main Street,” and Oak Park has one that is really special. The Lake Theater is a true classic whose original facade still remains intact. The inside has been renovated to be clean and comfortable with large comfy seats but they’ve maintained the art deco splendor throughout the theaters. First-run movies play from late morning to late evening with lots of matinees at discount prices.

10. Eat Dinner in Oak Park

If you missed Hemmingway’s Bistro for dinner drop in for the herb-crusted whitefish or mussels and pâté for dinner. They have all the French bistro classics like Coq Au Vin, Bouillabaisse, and Beef Wellington. It’s a small bistro with a nice wine list. It’s so comfortable you’ll find yourself not wanting to leave and daydreaming of Hemingway ordering another round. They also offer a nice live jazz brunch on Sundays and daily specials.

Moule frites at Hemingway's Bistro Oak Park Illinois — Moule frites at Hemingway’s Bistro Oak Park Illinois

Maya del Sol offers Latin fusion cuisine 144 South Oak Park Avenue. This place is always full and always rocking. Live music makes the place a little loud but it’s a fun and festive vibe. They also have a large outdoor patio to enjoy in the warm months that is perfect for cocktails and appetizers too. You’ll find lots of Latin flavors including ceviches, ropa vieja, carne asada, portobello tostadas, and fish tacos as well as non-Latin tastes such as Wagyu cheeseburgers and sweet potato fries!

If you’re looking for Greek food try PapaSpiros Greek Taverna on Lake Street. You’ll find all your favorites and think you’ve gone to Greece if even for just a little while. And for great Italian try Cucina Paradiso. All these spots are located in the downtown area. As we’ve mentioned the best way to really get to know Oak Park is by walking the streets and exploring.

We’ve just covered the very tip of all that Oak Park has to offer. There are many events all year round that are fun and really give you a great feel for this vibrant community.

THE QUICK BITE: Whether you live in Chicago or are visiting Illinois from somewhere else, Oak Park is a quaint town just west of Chicago once home to Ernest Hemingway and Frank Lloyd Wright that offers a bounty of food, culture, shopping, and more worthy of a visit.

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Celebrate The Kentucky Derby Like A Local

By Sue Reddel

Like most folks in the Northern Hemisphere, we’re patiently waiting for spring to really arrive. This winter seems to drag on and on and on. Even this week there were snow flurries in downtown Chicago. The poor blooming trees and plants just don’t know what to do.

Whether or not the weather cooperates we want to celebrate spring – and soon. And, what better harbinger of spring than the Kentucky Derby? Even if you can’t make it to Louisville for the actual Derby on May 2nd, we’ve got some great tips from our friends at Old Forester who reached out to Derby locals via social media to get their input on how to celebrate the Kentucky Derby like a local wherever you may be.

Catch all the Kentucky Derby action in the infield.

Where to watch the Kentucky Derby?

The best spots at the Derby are on the second floor, the clubhouse on the first turn, or the backstretch up against the fence. If you’re at home get the best seat you can in front of the big-screen TV.

You’re Wearing What?

The perfect accompaniment for the Derby is a perfect hat. It should feature a wide brim to keep the sun off your delicate face and should include stylish yet simple adornments. Derby hats have a long tradition and are an entertaining event all by themselves.

If you’re actually at the Derby you’ll want to dress in layers so you’re prepared for whatever weather happens that day. Also bring your sunscreen, sunglasses and lip balm.

Most importantly, don’t show up underdressed. Wearing sneakers and no hat will likely get you booted off the invitation list next year.

Betting Strategy

Do all your research and get your bets in early. That way you can relax and enjoy the festivities. We love picking horses by their cute little names. My aunt watched the horses before the race and whoever dropped a “load” right before the race got the nod. Checking out the horses is a great way to see how they’re feeling that day. And, they’re such beautiful animals!

What to eat?

Our favorite part! Go with the classic burgoo southern spicy stew, hot brown sandwich, and the big finish, Derby Pie typically made with chocolate and pecans or walnuts.

If you want to make things a bit simpler, fire up the grill and make some tasty burgers, hot dogs, and ribs.

What to drink?

Mint Juleps, of course! Churchill Downs serves nearly 120,000 mint juleps over the two-day period of Kentucky Oaks and Kentucky Derby, and the Old Forester Mint Julep will be the “Official Drink” served onsite at the track.

To get it perfect every time and without a fuss, try the new Old Forester Mint Julep, a 60-proof ready-to-serve cocktail using Old Forester Straight Bourbon Whisky. It’s sold in 36 markets across the U.S. in a one-liter commemorative Derby-themed bottle. The suggested retail price is $24.99. The ready-to-serve cocktail lets you prepare a perfect Mint Julep in 10 seconds. Just unscrew the bottle and pour over the crushed ice. Even a novice bartender can manage that!

Make your home party an authentic Derby party knowing you’re drinking the same product that will be served to race fans at the track on Derby Day.

We’d like to thank Old Forester for providing us with a sample of the Old Forester Mint Julep ready-to-drink cocktail, great photos, and fun tips on how to enjoy the Kentucky Derby like a local. We were not compensated for this review and all opinions are our own.

THE QUICK BITE: Learn how to celebrate the Kentucky Derby like a local with some fun tips and recommendations and enjoy an easy-to-make Old Forester Mint Julep ready-to-drink cocktail wherever you are.

In Blog

Top Food Markets

By Sue Reddel

Food Travel is here to stay. Every day another report is published on how many people enjoy traveling to new places and experiencing the culture through diverse culinary discoveries.

As Food Travelists, we love to explore the local markets when we’re traveling. It’s the perfect opportunity to learn more about the foods, spices, and people of the place you’re visiting. We highly recommend that you check out a local market wherever you are visiting, be it near or far. Walk around, see and smell everything before choosing your favorites. As an added bonus, it’s a great exercise to help work off the calories from all that yummy food you’re about to experience.

While we can only scratch the surface, here’s a quick tour of some of the top world food travel markets we have visited.

Top Food Markets

St. Lawrence Market in Toronto, Canada Top World Food Travel Markets — St. Lawrence Market in Toronto, Canada

St. Lawrence Market, Toronto, Canada

Home of the world-famous Peameal Bacon Sandwich, amazing seafood, a fully stocked mustard hut, and a whole lot more.

Donghuamen Night Market, Beijing, China

Anybody who’s been to China has a picture of some huge creepy crawler or odd sea creature on a stick. It’s a definite must-see while visiting Beijing.

Quincy Market or Faneuil Hall Marketplace in Boston — Quincy Market aka Faneuil Hall Marketplace in Boston

Quincy Market in Boston

If you want to experience the heart of Boston, don’t miss this stop. Whether you love seafood, fresh produce, or just people watching it’s a wicked good time.

Detroit Eastern Market

Open all year round this downtown market brings the local farmers into the big D. Terrific assortment of fresh produce as well as food trucks, local restaurants, and shops nearby.

Istanbul Grand Bazaar

Not officially a “food” market it’s the granddaddy of markets. There are spices, teas, and plenty of goodies available. We bought a lovely Turkish tea set at the Grand Bazaar and it’s fun to watch people delivering tea to shopkeepers throughout. If you’re lucky they might ask you to join them for a glass of tea while you negotiate.

We had to include another shout-out to Istanbul for the local markets throughout the city. Fresh fish is plentiful. Don’t miss the Spice Market as well. Istanbul is definitely one on top of the world’s food travel markets.

Urgup Market in Cappadocia, Turkey — Urgup SaturdayMarket in Cappadocia, Turkey

Urgup Saturday Market in Cappadocia, Turkey

This market wins the award for the LARGEST produce we’ve ever seen. Cappadocia has some of the most fertile soil in the world because of the volcanic soil and it shows! The cabbages are way bigger than your head.

Cho Ben Thanh Market in Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam

This huge market is a combination of food, spices, and everything else! Be prepared. These vendors are pros and see a tourist coming a mile away. Have fun, but be sure to negotiate everything.

Fisherman's Wharf in San Francisco — Fisherman’s Wharf in San Francisco

Fisherman’s Wharf and Embarcadero in San Francisco, California

Wear your walking shoes and hit the waterfront in San Francisco. Rice-A-Roni may be the San Francisco treat, but it’s got nothing on these blocks and blocks of food lovers’ paradise. All the seafood, bakeries, chocolate, and cocktails you could want. Make a day of it and enjoy it all.

Mercat de Sant Josep de la Boqueria, in Barcelona

One of the top food travel destinations in Barcelona, this market located on La Rambla is everything they say it is and much, much more. Wander around and see everything before making your choices or simply eat in the market at one of the many tapas stands.

meat-vendor-at-victor-hugo-market-tolouse-france — Vendor at Victor Hugo Market in Toulouse.

Victor Hugo Market in Toulouse, France

If you’re in Toulouse and looking to create a perfect picnic basket or grab a quick snack this market is for you. You’ll find wonderful French cheeses, sausages, bread, and unique fruits from the region. It’s a big one and you’ll want to check out every corner.

Mazatlan Seafood Market

There are many fresh markets in Mazatlan, Mexican. Of course, there are, this region supplies most of the seafood and produce for the entire country! Just don’t miss the seafood market where you can get fresh shrimp, oysters, and more just by strolling down the street. We sampled some oysters that were just taken out of the Pacific. Just doesn’t get any fresher or better than that.

Central Hall Market in Budapest

We were lucky to be able to tour Budapest while on a Viking Cruise. It was in the winter being able to check out all the local goodies indoors was a real treat. This market not only had fresh food you would expect like fruits, meats, and veggies but also loads of packaged goods that made perfect gifts for folks back home.

Local farmers at the Athens Greece Farmers Market — Local farmers

Farmers Markets in Athens

There are many, many food markets in Athens, Greece. Be sure to check on the schedules and places where they are when you visit. Leave plenty of time to stroll the markets talking to vendors and sampling their wares. You’ll find a wonderful selection of olives, oils, fruits, vegetables, and nuts. Some things you won’t find anywhere else. We bought the best pistachios with a pink tint on the inside that were different and delicious.

Phoenix Open Air Public Market

Available year-round this open-air market is a downtown hot spot for local small farmers and businesses. Go on Food Truck Friday for a great taste of the food in the area.

Lots of fresh fruit in Bugis Street Market in Singapore. Top World Food Travel Markets. — Lots of fresh fruit in Bugis Street Market in Singapore.

Bugis Street, Singapore

Well known for its markets and street food Bugis Street is one you won’t want to miss. It boasts fresh produce, fish, spices, and plenty of stands with every kind of food imaginable. When you need a food break there’s shopping for clothes, souvenirs, and more readily available too.

Food Travelists at the Frankfurt Christkindlmarket

Any Christmas Market in Germany

We love Christkindlmarkets. The people, the food, and the Gluwein are simply not to be missed. There are Christmas markets in many parts of Germany, so you can pick your territory and take the train to several different markets in a few days’ time.

Our home town favorite Logan Square Farmers Market in Chicago. Top World Food Travel Markets. — Our home town favorite Logan Square Farmers Market in Chicago

Logan Square Farmers Market in Chicago, Illinois

We’d be remiss if we left out our Chicago favorite. Logan Square Farmers Market brings the best local farmers and sustainable food producers from the region together for a food extravaganza. Held every Sunday from 10 am – 3 pm we think it’s one of the very best markets in the city.

We hope you enjoyed our top food market list. We know there are many more so please share your favorites with us in the comments below.

Dane County Farmers Market in Madison, Wisconsin

You know our new home town is going to have a kick-ass market. One of the largest in the United States in fact. Dan County Farmers Markets happens every Saturday from spring through fall. Get there early for the best pick of fresh local produce and bakery items, and to beat the crowds. It gets busy but the good news is that these Wisconsin natives love to stroll the farmer’s markets that goes around the capital square. No pushing, no shoving, just smiles and a lot of no you go firsts make this a simply wonderful experience. It’s just one of the reasons why we chose Madison as our home.

THE QUICK BITE: If you would love to eat your way around the world check out our round-up of the Top World Food Travel Markets. There’s something for everyone.

In Blog

Food Travel Photography Tips from A Pro

By Sue Reddel

We all could use some food travel photography tips. It seems that whenever you’re trying to get that perfect once-in-a-lifetime picture something is always wrong. The lighting is bad, too many tourists, wrong camera – enough with the excuses. We talked to professional photographer Angie Garbot to find out how anyone can take great pictures of their next culinary travel adventure just like a pro.

Angie has taken thousands of photos and captured special moments like engagements, weddings, family celebrations. She’s also been shooting food for multiple books and feature stories and is a passionate Food Travelist just like all of us.

Food Travel Photo Tips From A Pro Angie Garbot — Angie Garbot

Food Travel Photography Tips From A Pro

Here’s our interview with Angie:

Food Travelist: Today everyone is a photographer with the ability to take pretty good quality pictures with a device they carry around in their pocket. What separates amateurish photos from professional-looking ones?

Angie Garbot: Most simply, it’s a dedication to the art from all aspects. First, that photography is really an art – thinking through composition, lighting, the feeling of the subject (whatever it is) – all of these things are important and professionals have worked to gain the knowledge of how to make these things work in concert to create the best possible image. There’s also a…”polish” to professional photography, people are shown from the most flattering angles, colors are true to real life (unless there’s an artistic reason they’re not), the subject is given appropriate space and emphasis, things like that.

FT: What is your favorite thing or things to photograph?

AG: I’m lucky to work in a variety of areas from commercial to family to weddings to food, that’s like asking which child is a favorite! I love working with people, getting them to relax in front of the camera and capturing who they really are, not just what they look like. I also like working with “things,” like food, creating the best light, angles, styling to show off its goodness. When traveling, I especially enjoy finding what makes a place unique…architecture, people, food…and I like finding those things from the locals’ perspective, rather than a standard vacation “snapshot.”

FT: Do most people need a DSLR camera or are Smart Phones and point and shoots enough to get great photos?

AG: I truly believe that it doesn’t matter what device or camera one uses to create an image – it’s about knowing how to use it appropriately to capture beautiful and compelling images. I teach people to maximize their use of all types of cameras – from Smart Phones, to point and shoots to the fanciest DSLRs – based on what they’re going to shoot and the capabilities of the device at hand. Most importantly, the best camera to have is the one in your hand when a moment or subject presents itself…you don’t not take the photo because you only have your phone!

FT: What are some tips you can give our audience about photographing food with their Smart Phones?

AG: Less is more. So, if your plate is piled high with food, it really photographs like…a pile of food! If you do have a lot of food, try to get close to highlight individual ingredients.

FT: Do you recommend using an app to edit images on your Smart Phone?

AG: Absolutely! Remember, it IS a phone…which happens to have a camera built in. So, it has limitations on what it can produce. My two favorite apps are Google’s Snapseed and SmugMug’s Camera Awesome. Give ’em a try!

FT: What are some quick tips when photographing travel icons like the Eiffel Tower or Taj Mahal?

AG: Try to find an angle or a view that you haven’t seen a thousand times. For example, if you can get really close, focus on little details or architectural elements. If you can’t get close, try to position the landmark in a new way in your composition, perhaps showing some of the surrounding area/neighborhood to give some additional interest. And, never take just one photo. Try a few from different places – even a few steps up/back or right/left can make a world of difference.

FT: I find that simply looking at many photos everyday taken by different people gives me inspiration and ideas for my own work. Where do you find photographic inspiration from?

AG: Absolutely, looking at others’ work is always an inspiration! I like to seek out different kinds of photography, for example, black and white or landscape or maternity, and see what’s out there. I like to look at imagery that is a different style than my own to see what I can learn, what I like, don’t like, etc. and then try to use something new in my own work. Instagram is a great place to do this, there are thousands and thousands of hashtags to search, pick a subject, and get lost.

FT: So many food travel photos involve low light situations. How can Food Travelists and photographers get the best images possible in such circumstances?

AG: Please, do not use flash! 🙂 Yes, it’s dark in a lot of restaurants and eateries, but flash on our Smart Phones is harsh and completely flattens out the image, casts the food in an unflattering light…so to speak. Try moving a candle closer to the food for more light, or using window light to light the side of the food you’re shooting. Also, if you’re dining with others, you can ask one of them to pull out their phone and use their screen light or flashlight to give you a boost. Always remember, though, try to be discreet and not disturb the other diners around you!

FT: How do you recommend managing so many digital photos? They take up so much space on devices and hard drives. Are there any apps or services you would recommend?

AG: That’s a tough question, so much of organizing images is personal preference. One thing to do for sure, though, is get those images, especially important/sentimental/one-of-a-kind one, off of your computer hard drive or smart phone. Storage is inexpensive these days, invest in a large hard drive, and backup your images to it. You can also look into cloud storage, there is a lot of it available out there…just be sure you know the limits and how you’re being charged before you sign up.

FT: What is the one thing that amateur photographers can do to improve their photos?

AG: If you think you’re close enough…get closer! How often do we see photographs where the most important part of the image, the people, is teeny tiny somewhere in the middle of the frame? Or, we fall in love with a flower vendor in a large market, so we photograph a sweeping shot of the whole market…but how much more interesting if we just included the abundance of color in a display of flowers or maybe even the vendor him/herself with their lovely products?

Thanks, Angie for sharing so many fantastic tips and tricks with us. If you’d like to learn more food travel photography tips from Angie you can see some of her work on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, and her website.

If you’re on Instagram check out our Food Travelist Instagram page. We have lots of fun sharing great photos there every day.

THE QUICK BITE: Food Travel Photography tips from professional photographer Angie Garbot. She shares some terrific advice on how to improve your chances of getting some great photos.

In Americas

Sleeping Bear Dunes Getaway

By Sue Reddel

If you live in the Midwest, traveling to the neighboring states is not only easy but the drives are typically reasonable and lovely. From Chicago, you can get to Wisconsin, Indiana, Michigan, Minnesota, and Ohio in a short amount of time.

I had always wanted to go and experience the National Park at Sleeping Bear Dunes. When we had the opportunity to have a meeting in nearby Traverse City we thought, “Let’s do it!”

Photo courtesy of The Homestead Resort.

The Homestead Resort was recommended by a friend in Traverse City. We were their guests for two nights this fall. We traveled there in November so the weather was quite chilly. In fact, we experienced a little bit of snow while visiting.

We stayed in the Stony Brook Lodge section of The Homestead Resort. The common area was already decorated for the holidays, warm and festive with a fireplace going. Our accommodations were quite lovely. On the top floor, we had a great view of the lake. The resort is actually surrounded by the Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore. It was very quiet and peaceful.

Four unique hotels, condominiums, and home developments are spread throughout the 500-acre resort.

Nonnas Restaurant at The Homestead Resort — Nonna’s Restaurant at The Homestead Resort

Photo courtesy of The Homestead Resort.

The resort features several restaurants on the premises, a spa, salon, fitness center, pools, golf, and tennis. But the fun doesn’t end there. Whether you just want to relax and enjoy the views or are searching for an active weekend, The Homestead has plenty to do. In the winter there’s skiing, ice skating, and other snow sports. In the summer there you can opt for bird watching, fishing, boating, and hiking trails. Whether you want to be pampered by the spa or be active all day long The Homestead has what you need. It’s pretty sure to bet that everyone you’re traveling with will find something they like to do (or not do, as the case may be!) There are lots of peaceful areas to relax, read or just soak up the natural beauty of the area.

Anderson's Glen Arbor Market — Anderson’s Glen Arbor Market

The nearby town of Glen Arbor has many small shops and restaurants, which makes it fun to stroll through and spend a lazy afternoon. We especially enjoyed Anderson’s Glen Arbor Market, which has a terrific gourmet section and lots of local products. One fun option is for you to stop in there and create a delicious picnic basket with locally made goodies.

If you’re looking for a fun place to get a tasty bite, stop at Art’s Tavern. It’s a local pub with a lively bar, pool table, great pub menu, and lots of locals. Art makes a mean cheeseburger and crispy tater tots – including sweet potato tots, which we just love. Pennants from just about every college in the U.S. adorn the walls and ceiling. It’s a fun and laid-back spot with great grub and ambiance.

While you’re in the area, be sure to visit Traverse City too. For some tips on what not to miss check out our post:

Foodie Fun and So Much More in Traverse City

QUICK BITE: The Sleeping Bear Dunes National Park is a beautiful spot in Northern Michigan with amazing views of spectacular dunes. The area is full of cute shops, local restaurants and The Homestead Resort for luxury accommodations and views of the lake and dunes.

In Americas

San Jose Eats And Treats

By Sue Reddel

As you know, we love to travel to new destinations and discover wonderful flavors. So on a recent journey to California, we were delighted to experience a vast array of wonderful San Jose eats and treats. If you don’t know, San Jose is in what’s known as the “Silicon Valley” area of northern California. But beyond all the fantastic technology companies, you will discover an incredibly rich and diverse culinary destination, from Michelin-starred chefs and five-star dining to hidden secrets, finds, and tasty desserts. There’s something for every budget and every taste in this charming, laid-back, California town.

Here’s a sampling of what we tried. The sweet endings include a mascarpone cheesecake, a trio of creme brulee, and other delicious ways to satisfy your sweet tooth.

Left Bank Brasserie

We had an excellent French lunch at the Left Bank Brasserie. From the sidewalk cafe, outstanding wine list, and classic menu choices, you really felt that you escaped to Paris for just a few hours.

Located on the always lively Santana Row in San Jose, Left Bank Brasserie is an authentic Parisian-style brasserie. So, we tried an authentic (and delicious) salad Nicoise. We were not disappointed.

Salad Nicoise at Left Bank Brasserie in San Jose

Having a leisurely lunch almost demands a dessert be ordered. Our personal favorite, profiteroles, made for a blissful ending to a perfect afternoon.

Les Profiteroles at Left Bank Brasserie in San Jose

San Pedro Square Market

Seems like just about every city has a “market” now but not everyone can boast a market with a wide array of vendors and a relaxing courtyard to meet up with friends over great food. San Pedro Square Market, located in downtown San Jose is a little gem that has so many great food choices it took almost half an hour before we settled on what to try.

This city market has over 25 vendors, in three spacious market halls that feature everything from wood-fired pizza, delicate crepes, and Spanish tapas to regionally-inspired hot dog creations.

Sweet Desserts at San Pedro Square Market

Of course, there are plenty of treats for dessert too. Like fresh chocolate chunk cookies. Who can resist? The market is a perfect place to visit whether you want to grab a morning coffee, lunch, or dinner with live music.

This is just a brief sampling of the wonderful, tasty food options you’ll find in San Jose. We have only begun to scratch the surface, and hope we’ve encouraged you to find your way to San Jose.

To learn even more about what there is to see in San Jose check out our other post Do You Know The Way to San Jose

THE QUICK BITE: If you’re looking to visit a city that offers many tasty food offerings for just about every budget or style be sure to check out San Jose eats and treats.

Pin to your California Food and Travel Board on Pinterest

In Americas

Christkindlmarket in Chicago

By Sue Reddel

Holidays tend to be full of traditions and one of my favorite traditions is when the Christkindlmarket opens in Chicago. The Christkindlmarket in Chicago, which opened in 1996 was inspired by the Christkindlesmarkt in Nurenberg, Germany which started way back in 1545.

Roasting Nuts At Christkindlmarket Chicago

The Christkindlmarket is an outdoor market that brings the tastes and treats of a European market to the middle of downtown Daley Plaza.

When you get to the Christkindlmarket with Picasso’s sculpture as a backdrop you immediately smell the grilled bratwurst, potato pancakes, spiced nuts, and schnitzel wafting through the air. With all those special scents, you know you’ve arrived.

Warm gluhwein, hot chocolate, coffee, and German beer make a great first stop before beginning your journey through the many vendors. Gluhwein is typically red wine with spices such as cinnamon, cloves, citrus, and sugar that is served warm in a small mug. It’s a great way to help keep a bit warmer on a cold Chicago day. The adorable commemorative mugs for hot drinks cost a little extra but make fun collectible souvenirs.

We would suggest then strolling the market with your drink of choice. Whether you’re just window shopping or looking for the perfect holiday gift you’re bound to be pleased by the large variety and many selections of unique offerings. Handmade German Christmas ornaments are a popular item and lines of customers wait to go in and pick out just the right ones for their Christmas tree. Kathe Wohlfahrt has hundreds of hand-blown ornaments to choose from in a comfortable enclosed tent. There are many more ornaments, beer steins, Black Forest cuckoo clocks, nativities, music, toys, and crafts as you wander through the market.

One of our favorite things is the authentic food flavor of the Christkindlmarket! Many German specialties are here including grilled sausages, pretzels, schnitzel, strudel, potato pancakes, crepes, hot nuts, candies, gingerbread hearts – almost everything you can find in a German Christmas market.

People tend to be in great spirits, and willingly share where they got this or that trinket or treasure, where they’re visiting from, or things not to miss. There’s even a warming tent where you can enjoy your food and drink, rest your feet, and mingle with the other market folks. Don’t forget to visit Santa and the huge Christmas tree for terrific photo opps. There also are special events and musical performances at various times, so check the website schedule to see what’s happening and when.

The Christkindlmarket opens the weekend before Thanksgiving and runs through December 24th. Admission is free. They often open multiple locations in the Chicagoland area. Be sure to check their website for the latest information.

THE QUICK BITE: Experience a European Christmas market in Chicago at the Christkindlmarket in Daley Plaza. Wander around the market full of tasty food, drinks, and beautiful holiday gifts.

In Blog

Samantha Brown on Food Travel

By Sue Reddel

Food Travelist was thrilled to interview travel expert Samantha Brown to learn about her favorite food travel memories, where she still wants to travel, and what food travel trends we can expect in the months ahead. Known for her cheerful personality and practical tips, Samantha Brown also knows a lot about food! We had a chance to catch up with her while she was on a visit in Vermont. Check out this video of Samantha Brown’s food travel insights.

Samantha Brown on Food Travel Interview Transcript

Read below for the transcript of our interview with Samantha Brown.

1. You travel to many different parts of the world. Tell us a little about what places have surprised you with great food.

I guess the place that really knocked my socks off was Thailand. Just being in Bangkok, I loved it and it was the food carts. The thing I love about food carts is that they were owned by generations of families. Four, five, and six generations of families where made one or two different items every single day and done that their entire lives for five generations. So you would wait in line and pay like three American dollars and you would get this plate, just like a paper plate and it wasn’t dressed nicely or looked fancy, but it tasted like the most luxurious meal you have ever had and again just like I said knocked your socks off. All the flavors were there and you spent two dollars I love when I can just be on the streets, eating street food with the locals and not shelling out $50-$70 per person for a great meal and that’s what I really loved about Bangkok.

2. What destination have you not yet been to but would like to visit and why?

Wow – I have not been to so many places, I think that one of the biggest misconceptions about me is that I have been everywhere and I have been to 51 countries and I have traveled for 15 years, but the world keeps getting bigger, not smaller. Places I would love to go to, I would love to go to Finland to see the Aurora Borealis, that’s my dream. I would love to go to Glaciers National Park in Montana to go on a bike ride. Things like that, I love being active, I love being in the outdoors. I don’t necessarily like sleeping in outdoors, I still need that nice resort to keep me warm at night, but I love those far-flung destinations that exist even in our own country.

3. What undiscovered destination would you recommend?

Well, it really has to be South East Asia that is the mecca of food. It is possibly a little expensive to get there about a $1,200 flight, but once you get there everything is petty cash cheap. You can go to Malaysia and have some of the best food of your life. On the island of Penang where there is not only a Muslim influence but Asian, Chinese, and Indian and it’s a confluence of flavors and dishes, and for very little money just change your idea of what food should taste like especially from a cart or roadside stand.

4. What is one of your favorite food travel memories?

I have so many, again if I may use Asia, I was in Singapore and I had fish head curry and I’m not the Andrew Zimmern of the Travel Channel, he has bizarre food. I like to stick to the chicken tenders, well not that bad but a part of the dinner was for the guest of honor to have the eye of the fish and this eye was probably this big and it’s the cooked eye of a fish. And everyone is watching me because they know as a Westerner that probably this is not my favorite experience that I was going to have and I put it in my mouth and I just waited. I had this large eye in my mouth and everyone is watching and it just dissolved and it tasted like butter and the flavors of the curry were mixed in and it was sensational. I loved it and I said “Well there is another eye right?” because don’t fish have two eyes? But as the guest you only get one eye, but it’s always taught me that we have a reaction to food like “Oh, we don’t eat that” and then you try it and it’s wonderful so it was one of my best experiences where I really got to try something that I would never try again, but I really enjoyed at the time.

5. Do you see any trends in culinary travel?

I think I see the biggest trend being one that I love is to make really great food accessible to the masses. Why do we have to stand in line at a really nice restaurant or not get in because we don’t have an expense account for the best chefs? These food trucks that are happening all over the United States are such a great way to have a little bite and really get a feel for something special. So I love the idea that I love when food is accessible and still really fabulous at the same time and I think that even though the food truck is a trend, it is here to stay.

We want to thank Samantha Brown for her time and thoughtful responses.

Thanks, Samantha! We wish you safe and tasty food travels.

Let us know what some of your favorite food travel memories are in the comments below.

THE QUICK BITE: Food Travelist interviews travel expert Samantha Brown about her food travel experiences and what trends she sees coming in the months ahead.

Sue & Diana

Welcome to Food Travelist! We are Sue Reddel and Diana Laskaris. We travel the world to find unique spots away from the crowds. From Michelin-starred restaurants to tasty street food on a stick. We hope to bring the world just a bit closer together as we share a meal and learn about different cultures through food and drink.

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Top 10 Best Things To Do in Oak Park, Illinois.

1. Great Breakfast in Oak Park

2. Visit Ernest Hemingway’s Home and Museum, 200 North Oak Park Avenue

3. Visit Frank Lloyd’s Home and Studio, 951 Chicago Avenue

4. Stroll Down Lake Street

5. Eat Lunch

6. Visit Austin Gardens Park

7. Eat Petersen’s Ice Cream

8. Shopping in Oak Park, Illinois

9. Watch A Movie

10. Eat Dinner in Oak Park

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Top Food Markets

St. Lawrence Market, Toronto, Canada

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Urgup Saturday Market in Cappadocia, Turkey

Cho Ben Thanh Market in Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam

Fisherman’s Wharf and Embarcadero in San Francisco, California

Mercat de Sant Josep de la Boqueria, in Barcelona

Victor Hugo Market in Toulouse, France

Mazatlan Seafood Market

Central Hall Market in Budapest

Farmers Markets in Athens

Phoenix Open Air Public Market

Bugis Street, Singapore

Any Christmas Market in Germany

Logan Square Farmers Market in Chicago, Illinois

Dane County Farmers Market in Madison, Wisconsin

Food Travel Photography Tips From A Pro

Left Bank Brasserie

San Pedro Square Market

Samantha Brown on Food Travel Interview Transcript

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