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.
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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!
Thank you to the Yellowstone Country Montana Tourism Region for hosting our recent visit to Yellowstone Country. All opinions we provide are our unique views and reflect our experiences. We pledge to provide our audience with truthful and honest reviews.
Our trip to the Yellowstone Country in Montana was life-changing. You read that right. Never had we together experienced a place like this before. The wide open spaces, the friendly open people, the slow relaxed pace, and the food. Wait…did you say food? Yep. Sure the west is known for high-quality, great-tasting meat. But there’s so much more to explore. Let us take you on a tasty journey through Yellowstone Country to show you just some of the delicious stops along the way and share why we fell in love with this beautiful part of the world.
When you think of Montana the first thing that pops into your mind is probably “Big Sky Country.” After arriving at the classic lodge-style airport in Bozeman it was no surprise that our first stop was the Big Sky Resort. It has 5,800 acres of land in Yellowstone Country. If you make the journey up top to Lone Mountain at Big Sky Resort you will be treated to a panoramic view that includes two national parks and endless mountain peaks. To say it’s breathtaking is an understatement. Taking the ski lifts and tram to the top is a fun trip any time of year.
Big Sky Resort
If you visit during the ski season you can take advantage of over 250 ski runs. There are plenty for beginners and intermediate skiers as well as many expert runs that challenge the even most accomplished skiers. They have the full complement of winter mountain sports as well as a spa center where you can just relax. During the summer it’s great to take advantage of hiking, mountain biking, zip lining, swimming, golfing, and more.
Delicious food at the Big Sky Resort Yellowstone Country
What we loved were the multiple choices for dining. Whether you head up for one of their weekend gourmet dining events or just want to grab a great flight of local craft beers at Montana Jack the resort has it all. With 9 restaurants on the property, there’s something to please your palate no matter what you’re craving.
Huge Local Beer Selection at Montana Jack at Big Sky Resort
It’s not enough for Lone Mountain Ranch to be listed as one of National Geographic’s Unique Lodges of the World™. The ranch also happens to have a restaurant on the property called the Horn & Cantle that serves up Montana-style classics with innovative twists in a relaxed setting.
The good news is that you don’t need to stay at the ranch to eat at Horn & Cantle although we’d highly suggest it. The cabins are luxurious and promise a relaxing quiet break from the world.
Lone Mountain Ranch Cabins
If you’re looking to try some game meats they have plenty. Choose from elk, bison, venison, and wild boar. But you also won’t want to miss the trout and salmon.
Tender & tasty bison short rib at Lone Mountain Ranch
Be sure to start with one of their signature cocktails and sidle up to the well-designed bar with gorgeous views. A must is the huckleberry lemonade created with Huckleberry Vodka made in Montana. Pro Tip: sit out on the balcony for a perfect open-air experience. Be warned! You will never want to leave.
Huckleberry Cocktail at Lone Mountain Ranch
Livingston – Paradise Valley
You know we gotta love a former advertising executive who leaves Chicago to run a lodge in Livingston, Montana. It was a pleasure to meet Chip Hurt and reminisce about the old days in advertising and visit this latest venture. Pine Creek Lodge is not just another place to stay in beautiful Paradise Valley, Livingston, Montana. It’s home to a bustling live music venue featuring local talent and a restaurant serving up some terrific grub.
Pine Creek Lodge Montana
We visited for a great lunch but we heard from several locals that their brunch is outstanding. The menu lists rock and roll items like the Lollapalooza Burger, SXSW chicken sandwich, and even a Chicago Dog!!
We had the PCL Montana Wagyu patty topped with smoked cheddar, brown sugar bacon, and house-made pickles (we loved them!). You can also fill up with cheese curds, tots, wings, and mac n’ cheese. There are also plenty of salads and other entrees to choose from.
Bacon Cheeseburger at Pine Creek Lodge Montana
Lots to Eat in Livingston
While in Livingston we were lucky enough to have time to swing by Neptune Brewery. Not only do they have so many delicious craft beers but they also have what they call a beer-centric menu in their restaurant bar up front.
The menu of elevated bar food includes hand-cut Kennebec fries, mussels, calamari, edamame, and salmon croquettes. But don’t forget the burgers, sandwiches, tacos, and very long nigiri, sashimi, and maki rolls. Every order coming out of the kitchen looked better than the dish before. We highly suggest a stop at Neptune Brewery for reasonably priced food ($4-$16) and great beer that is a memorable treat.
Chico may be the home of its own natural hot spring but it’s also a Food Travelist’s paradise featuring local food specialties and an unbelievable, exhaustive wine list. Just north of Yellowstone National Park, this unexpected find is a must-visit. Dine in the main dining room, the poolside grill, or the saloon (who doesn’t love a saloon?).
Saloon at Chico Hot Springs Resort and Spa
From burgers in the saloon to a full fine dining experience in the main dining room you’ll simply adore the food at Chico. Click here for our full review of Chico.
Tender Scallops at Chico Hot Springs and Day Spa
Big Timber
This small town of 1800 residents in the shadow of the Crazy Mountains serves up big food with their own local style.
While in Big Timber you’ll want to visit the Grand Hotel Restaurant which is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Serving up fine dining with locally raised meats and seafood that arrives fresh daily for lunch and dinner. There are unique and delicious chef’s daily specials and if you’re looking for snacks and bar food check out their fully restored 1890 saloon.
Elk Sausage and Pretzel Bites Grand Hotel Big Timber Montana Yellowstone Country
If you love bakeries (we know you do) check out the Big Timber Bakery. Eat in or take out to one of the many, many places nearby where you can hike and enjoy your food finds out in nature. It’s family owned and you can taste the care that goes into the goodies.
Big Timber Bakery Cinnamon Roll
Big Lunches
Their sandwiches and cinnamon rolls are truly Big Sky country big. Just walk a couple of extra miles and enjoy every bite.
Big Timber Bakery Reuben Sandwich
Another unexpected stop in Yellowstone Country is Tumblewood Teas. Being a tea lover I knew we had to make a quick stop. Fortunately, I was no newcomer to Tumblewood Teas. Chico Hot Springs and Day Spa and Homestead Bed & Breakfast both serve up Tumblewood Teas to their guests. We’re glad to see others supporting this local women-owned business.
Tumblewood Teas at Chico Hot Springs
Tea Time
Little did I know I was in for a special treat when we had the chance to meet with the founders Riza Gilpin and Laurie Rennie while in Big Timber.
Riza and Laurie from Tumblewood Teas in Big Timber.
Founded in 2009, this women-owned business is offering up some really tasty teas. From some of the finest Pu’erh teas to custom blends like Bright Montana Morning, Cowboy Creamsicle (yes, it tastes like a Creamsicle) and I’m Your Huckleberry, they are wonderful.
I have to confess that relaxing with these gals and talking teas was one of my highlights of Yellowstone Country. Be sure to go to their website and learn more about them and their tea collection. The good news is you can purchase them all online at TumblewoodTeas.com.
Bozeman
Although we didn’t get to spend much time in Bozeman, we can tell you that we’ll definitely need another visit to this blooming community. Walking through the quaint downtown strip and seeing everything that’s going on makes us yearn for more. This is no ordinary college town.
The cocktails at Plonk Wine in Bozeman, Montana twinkled under the lights.
After a long day, we were lucky to get in a little time to enjoy wine, cocktails, and food at Plonk Wine. Although the wine list is impressive the cocktail program is also well worth a look. We sat out on their magical patio and were immediately transported to another place. Gardens, twinkling lights, and artwork make you feel like you are in your own backyard, but someone else is doing the serving!
Plonk Wine Bar Bozeman Montana Yellowstone Country
Our last treat in Yellowstone County was breakfast at Jam! in Bozeman. Breakfast is served all day at this popular and bustling spot. After you’ve finished your cruise down Main Street stop in for a luscious breakfast or lunch. Some typical dishes with unique twists make it difficult to choose what to order. May I recommend the trio of Benedicts? You can choose what appeals to you to make your own selection but I went with the Chicken and biscuit, crab cake, and Mia Benedict Italian. All were delicious, and the Mia Bene was ridiculously good. House-made grilled country bread crostini, roasted and charred tomato, fresh mozzarella, balsamic reduction, and fresh basil. How does that sound? I thought so!
Trio of Benedicts at Jam! in Bozeman, Montana
Snacks and Treats
One of the things most travelers seek out in new destinations is ice cream. Montana’s claim to fame is Wilcoxson’s. Our host swore that we needed to try Wilcoxson’s huckleberry ice cream sandwich. On our journey, we searched high and low for this darn ice cream sandwich. Along the way, I tried Wilcoxson’s huckleberry ice cream bar (really good covered in dark chocolate) and Wilcoxson’s huckleberry ice cream (pure research). Finally, we found the elusive ice cream sandwich in Big Timber. It didn’t disappoint. So be sure to try this local taste treat during your travels.
Wilcoxsons Huckleberry Ice Cream
Sometimes locals have favorites that may not be hyper-local but are favorites nonetheless. This is the case with Dot’s Homestyle Pretzels. Made in North Dakota they were recommended by everyone and may be the most addictive pretzel we’ve ever had. Dot’s “gourmet” seasonings will have you eat entire bag before you know it. Available at most groceries stores and you can also get Dot’s Pretzels on Amazon too.
Dots Homestyle Pretzels from Dakota
Clearly, these spots and dishes are just the tip of the iceberg when it comes to eating and drinking in Montana’s Yellowstone Country. Next time you’re thinking about heading out to the “old west” in Montana be prepared to bring your stretchy pants and eat lots of delicious meals and great snacks too!
To learn more about the Yellowstone Country in Montana and plan your visit check out their website visityellowstonecountry.com.
If you’ve been to Yellowstone Country please share your favorite spots with us in the comments below.
For those who have followed along on our journey of moving from the United States to living in Portugal, you may be just as surprised as we are to hear that it’s been three years.
One thing you may not know is that we arrived on 25 Abril Portugal, or the 25 of April. The revolution that took place in 1974 ended the dictatorship and started democracy in Portugal. This year is the 50th Anniversary of what is called the Carnation Revolution. Almost no shots were fired during this military coup. The story goes that a restaurant worker, Celeste Caeiro, offered carnations to soldiers when the people took to the streets.
She took the restaurant’s flowers to start what would become the tradition of red carnations representing Freedom Day. This is an official Portuguese holiday that is celebrated throughout the country and the world. Many parades, festivities, and gatherings are planned.
Now we celebrate this day along with the Portuguese as our “Freedom Day.” We have our red carnations and are ready for the big day.
If you’d like to learn more about Freedom Day check out this BBC podcast that’s in English and includes sound clips from April 25, 1974.
What We Have Learned Living in Portugal
We Are Grateful
We made it through A1/A2 language school. This is a requirement for Portuguese citizenship, which we can apply for in another two years. This was a HUGE deal for us. I’ve never learned another language and I’m also a horrible student (of course the teacher is). But I bucked up and made a commitment to myself to pass the class. Diana had a much easier time of it but we both made it through. We definitely celebrated with a few cocktails. We would still highly recommend Portuguese with Carla to get started and to supplement your Portuguese learning.
We’ve also made more Portuguese friends and learned a lot more about the culture and history. We purchase Portuguese products and have become acclimated to our new place.
Our Safe Home
We continue to feel safe and secure in our home and in Portugal. Although Portugal is not crime-free, violent crime is very low and guns are not a part of the culture. They are used for hunting and police. That’s it.
Our Abundance
We count our blessings every day. Our lives are filled with many friends from all over the world who have come to Portugal to create new lives. Our table is often full of friends who are Portuguese, Brazilian, Angolan, Irish, British, French, and others. We continue to learn about cultures over food and drink.
We know that we are privileged to have had the opportunity to choose to move here and enjoy the freedom to live where we wish to.
Living A Portuguese Mediterranean Lifestyle
We’re In Charge
Over the last year, we’ve made positive healthy lifestyle changes. We’re both in our 60s and want to be sure that we can continue to move about and be healthy. We’ve both lost weight. Walking 4-5 miles (6-8 kilometers, that sounds like so much more, right?) every day and following a Mediterranean lifestyle and diet. I hesitate to use the word “diet.” We now eat red meat 1-2 times a month. We eat lots of fresh veggies and fruit and watch our quantities.
That doesn’t mean we won’t splurge now and again. Especially while on a European Waterways French barge cruise in Burgundy France that’s for sure! And we enjoyed every morsel.
We’re also focusing on what we’d like to do more. Diana has been helping people with her hypnosis and coaching skills and is writing a novel with her Dad. I’ve been gardening on our veranda and making time to draw and paint. We have found if we don’t earmark time to do the things we love we just don’t do it. Portugal does have a slower pace but sometimes our American brains still strive to get the most work done out of each day. Being purposeful about how we spend our time has made a big difference.
Community Minded
Part of the Mediterranean Lifestyle is being social. If you know us, you know that’s not difficult for us. However, if you’re an entrepreneur, you also know it’s sometimes difficult to juggle work and your social life. Most of us tend to be a little obsessive with work. We have made it a priority to get out with friends, and schoolmates. It’s also important to us to take the time to participate in community events and do what we can to help in our piece of the world.
After a fire raged through a forest in a nearby town we hosted a fund-raiser for our local volunteer firemen (bombeiros). It’s important to us to give back to the community that gives us so much every day.
Getting Outside More
Another challenge with working for yourself is making sure you get up and away from the many screens we need to look at most days. We committed to our walking to get out every day. This includes taking more drives and exploring new neighborhoods and regions of Portugal.
Even if we went to someplace new every weekend it would take us years to see all there is to see in Portugal.
Mindful Travel
Just Beginning To Discover Portugal & Europe
We imagined that life in Portugal would make it easier for us to see more of Europe. We have been able to travel to France, Spain, Italy, Turkey, Greece, the Netherlands, and many parts of Portugal since moving to Portugal.
Family and friends have visited and more will be here soon. We just love showing off our adopted home taking them to all our favorite places and discovering new ones with them too.
We’ve traveled with friends here in Portugal and to other spots in Europe. We look forward to doing more of that in the future.
We are speaking at the TBEX Conference in San Sebastian, Spain in late May. Living in Portugal makes it easy to turn this opportunity into a road trip. We are planning to make stops in Bilbao, Salamanca, and many other smaller towns on our trip. We are continuing to look for places that are unique, less traveled to, and have great food.
What Lies Ahead?
It may seem like we have sugar-coated our experience here. We sure don’t intend to. As we’ve said before, Portuguese bureaucracy is enough to send many people back to the U.S. It’s not for the faint of heart. Real estate and rent prices have risen. Portugal never was a “super cheap” place to live but that didn’t stop many people trying to move here under the pretense that it is.
Food, utilities, and the general cost of living have gone up in Portugal as they have around the world. If you’re considering a move to Portugal PLEASE, PLEASE, PLEASE do your homework. Way too many people rely on random information from people who are not experts and find themselves in a difficult if not impossible situation.
Portugal is a wonderful place to live. If you make the move you must be willing to assimilate into the culture. Going to the corner cafe for a bica instead of heading to Starbucks (although much to our dismay, there is a Starbucks in Cascais now). Stand in a line and wait your turn patiently. Shrug and say ok, when a doctor walks up to you in the waiting room and says, “I can’t see you today let’s make another appointment” (at least he said it with a smile). It’s an old saying but you do need to go with the flow. Take a deep breath and know typically everything is going to be ok.
Our hope is that we live in Portugal fo another two year and apply for our citizenship. In the meantime, we’ll keep sharing our stories and living the best lives that we can.
Evora Portugal is a vibrant city chock full of interesting things to see and do. Located in the Alentejo region, it has a unique historical charm and is just about a 90-minute drive from Lisbon. This sets it among great day trips from Lisbon or perfect for a weekend stay.
You can explore Roman ruins, museums, shops, and fascinating nature attractions nearby. If you’re looking for interesting things to see and do without having to rush around to see it all, Evora makes a great day trip or weekend choice for you. Here are what we think are some of the best things to do in Evora for a memorable visit.
Things To Do In Evora
Roman Temple
To get a spectacular glimpse of the ancient world, the Roman Temple in the historic center of Evora is one of the best. The impressive city center of Evora has been designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Part of the reason is that this ancient structure is one of the world’s best preserved examples of Roman architecture. The temple is made of granite and marble and stands unobstructed on all sides. Unlike with many ancient structures, you can walk right up to it for a better look in detail. Some people wrongly call it the Diana Temple (to honor the Goddess of the Hunt, whom we know and love).
However, the Roman Temple was constructed in the highest part of the city. It was part of the Roman forum that was built to honor Emperor Augustus. The temple was constructed in the 1st Century AD. Although it was damaged and modified in subsequent centuries, it has been restored and preserved to retain as much of its original magnificence as possible. It’s hard not to linger and think about all that’s happened during the centuries that the Roman Temple has stood in the heart of Evora.
Roman Baths
Another brush with ancient history arrived with the rediscovery of the Roman Baths in 1987. Romans loved baths both for hygiene and socializing. They sometimes even conducted business there. The Roman Baths in Evora comprise three different areas, including hot and steam baths. When it was created, the structure was probably the largest public building in the city. It’s easy to understand how important the baths may have been to the people living in ancient Evora.
Today, the Roman Baths are located inside where the Evora Town Hall now stands. It’s a little tricky to find them. You enter the Town Hall building. Pass through the administrative offices, and walk to the back where you can see the baths. It’s truly a place where the past and present collide. One of the office windows looks out at the baths. It’s a little strange looking at an important aspect of ancient life through the windows of a modern administrative structure. It also shows the connective thread of life in Evora between its ancient roots and modern daily life.
Chapel Of Bones (Capela Dos Ossos)
It’s easy to get creeped out by one of the most talked about and visited buildings in Evora, the Chapel of Bones. The name is not whimsical or metaphorical. The building is lined with the skulls and bones of thousands of monks that were recovered in the 1500s. This is an example of how the Franciscans thought about sustainability.
The chapel was built during a time when cemeteries were using up all the land around the city. The Church of São Francisco even saw its cemetery becoming overcrowded. So rather than continue to add to the problem, they decided to fill the chapel attached to the church with an important and relevant message. Inch by inch, bone by bone, the inside of the chapel is intended to serve as a reminder of life’s impermanence and the inevitability of death. To make sure you get the message clearly, writing above the entrance translates to “We bones that are here, await yours.”
You might need a breath of fresh air after a visit to the Chapel of Bones. If so, go next door to the gorgeous Church of São Francisco, a National Monument where royals worshipped. Head on up the stairs and go out onto the rooftop. There you will get a breathtaking view of the entire area. It’s a bit of a climb, but if you like spectacular vistas, you will be glad you made the effort.
Aqueduct of Silver Water (Aqueduto da Água de Prata)
Aqueducts are very cool. Roman aqueducts that were rebuilt at the height of a city’s “golden age” are even cooler. That’s why Evora’s Aqueduct of Silver Water is such a fun thing to see. It was reconstructed from its Roman origin to bring fresh, clean water from the springs of Graça do Divor into the city.
The marble fountain in Praça do Giraldo delivered water from the aqueduct to the citizens of Evora for more than four centuries. Even now, the structure, a phenomenal accomplishment even in its own time, is still a source of engineering pride. It’s also a protected monument in the World Heritage Site of Evora.
Almendres Cromlech (Megalith)
A little outside of town is a megalithic complex. An arrangement of giant stones, from the 6th millennium B.C. called Almendres Cromlech. It was created more than 7,000 years ago, during the Neolithic period. That makes it older than the Great Pyramids. It’s older than the famous Stonehenge in England by some 2,000 years.
Many of the stones have carvings on them, adding to the intrigue. Although it’s unsure of what the purpose was specifically, historians believe that it has a strong connection to agriculture. Whatever these amazing stones represented at the time they were placed, today they represent a fascinating look at something created by our oldest ancestors that has withstood millennia to connect us even today.
Cork Oak Trees
Portugal is the largest cork producer in the world and exports over 60% of the cork used around the globe. With a value of about $1.3 billion and employing some 20,000 people, cork is one of the most important industries in the country. When visiting Portugal, you will likely see lots of products made from cork. But aside from the usual bottle stoppers and bulletin boards, cork in Portugal is used to make everything from shoes, purses, belts, hats, tableware, office items, yoga mats, and much, much more.
If you’re intrigued to see where all that cork comes from, then you’ll want to visit some of the cork forests around Evora to see what real Cork Oak trees look like. Not surprisingly, the world’s biggest Cork Oak tree, named the Whistler Tree, over 230 years old, is in the Alentejo. The trees have a thick bark that is peeled off carefully and meticulously processed. The trees usually live around 200 years. The bark is only harvested every 9 years or so using sustainable practices that ensure the health and safety of the trees. They are cared for and nurtured to preserve them for the future.
If you have a vehicle you can drive to see the cork oak trees yourself. Or, if you want to have a knowledgeable guide take you, there are several tours offered. Some include lunch and others combine visits to cork forests, the megaliths, and maybe even a winery or vineyard. Serving as insulation for over 5000 years, cork is one of nature’s gifts to us. Portugal has managed to blend profitability with the sustainability of an important resource that is also beautiful to see in its natural environment
Museums
Like many cities in Portugal, Evora has plenty of museums to visit. In addition to those with art and items you would expect, there are a few specialty museums with different exhibits to enjoy. Here are a few Evora museums we think are interesting.
Cathedral of Évora Museum
The Roman Catholic Cathedral of Évora is one of the oldest buildings in Évora. Located on top of a hill its rooftop provides a stunning view of the Évora region. The museum contains several relics and art that are all worth seeing.
Evora Toy Museum
Whether you’ve got kids with you or you’re a kid at heart, you’ll enjoy the Museu do Brinquedo de Evora (Evora Toy Museum). There you’ll find vintage toys that brought joy to children who were treated to their special way of bringing smiles. Many toys are from the 1940s and 50s. The wide variety includes musical toys, handmade wooden toys, toy trains, games, and doll houses. It’s located in the public garden and is free to enter. Be sure to check the timetable and it’s closed on weekends.
Watch Museum (Museu do Relógio)
Started by a passionate watch lover who inherited three broken pocket watches from his grandparents. The Watch Museum has become an important collection. In addition to housing a huge collection of watches now available for the public to see, the museum also participates in restoration efforts. Pocket watches, clocks, wrist watches are all here. The museum even designs and produces its high-quality brand of watches now. Originating in the Alentejo town of Serpa, the museum opened the Evora branch in 2011 soon offering visitors an ambitious collection of timepieces fueled by passion. The price is €2 for adults and €1.40 for seniors and kids under 10. Closed Mondays.
Carriage Museum (Museu das Carrugens)
If you like seeing how people got around in the 18th and 19th centuries, you will want to check out the Carriage Museum in Evora. There is a small collection of about a dozen carriages imported from all over Europe for use by an upper-crust family. There are also items on display such as saddles and harnesses for the horses and other traveling accessories. The €1 admission also provides entry to the Library and Palace owned by the same family. The Carriage Museum is fittingly housed in a building that was part of the cathedral that used to be a barn. Seniors’ price is €.50 and Sundays and kids under 12 are free.
Museum of Crafts and Design (Museu do Artesanato e do Design, MaDe)
The Crafts and Design Museum is a fun place to see many examples of tapestries, cork, pottery, wood, and other creations of local and regional artisans. There is also a collection of industrial designs in things like household appliances and office machines. This is a small uncongested museum with an entry fee of €2 (€1 for seniors or members of a family group) near the Chapel of Bones. Check the schedule for opening times and it’s closed on Mondays.
Evora Museum
The impressive Evora Museum is over a century old. Just taking a look at the inside of the building makes the visit worthwhile. Roman, Visigoth, and Moorish items include art, artifacts, sculptures, and even furnishings. A highlight for many is the “Life of the Virgin” series of 13 panels depicting the life of Mary. Paintings by artists such as Garcia Fernandes, Avelar Rebelo, Mestre do Sardoal, Francisco Henriques, and others are also included in the more than 20,000-piece collection. Admission is €3 and the museum is closed on Mondays.
Shopping
Praça do Giraldo
Praça do Giraldo is the main square of Evora, dating to the 16th century. It’s a central focus of life in the city and has been for centuries. Today it’s the perfect place to take a break, grab a bite, do a little shopping, or just people watch. For shoppers, there’s a great arcade of shops set off by round medieval arches. There are also several cafés and restaurants great for taking a break to relax between purchases. The plaza’s gorgeous Baroque marble fountain has eight water spouts. Each one represents one of the eight streets that branch off the square. The stunning Church of Saint Anthony sits on the north side of Praça do Giraldo.
It’s hard to believe that this beautiful square was the location of the Duke of Braganza’s execution in the 1400s. It was a warning to anyone plotting with Spain to overthrow Portuguese King John II. On top of that, victims of the Spanish Inquisition were punished in the plaza too. These days, the central square is much more peaceful. It serves as a launching pad for many touristic excursions as well as a place where locals go to dine, shop, and socialize.
Street Markets
Of course one of our favorite ways to shop in any location is to explore the local street markets. In Evora, a large open-air market happens on the second Tuesday of each month at the Rossio de São Bras, just outside the old castle walls between the center of town and the railway station. Vendors here sell a wide variety of artisanal crafts, household goods, clothing, shoes, toys, accessories, and more.
There is also a rotating schedule of four different weekend markets located by the Aqueduct. Each with its own focus, including antiquities, old books, collectibles, and arts and crafts.
Shopping Streets
Avenida 5 de Outubro is Evora’s main shopping street. Its history goes back to the 14th century (when it was called Rua da Selaria) when leather manufacturers dominated. In the 15th century, jewelers were the main focus. But today, this street close to the Praça do Giraldo has a variety of shops selling colorful pottery, hand-painted ceramic tiles, carved cork items, and other local handicrafts. You can also find souvenirs and tourist items like t-shirts, postcards, and souvenirs. Rua Candido dos Reis includes some elevated independent clothing boutiques and jewelry stores with high-quality Portuguese filigree gold pieces. Rua Vasco da Gama has some great independent shops selling everything from health food to artisan wood products, rugs, and more.
Books
Book lovers will enjoy stopping in Livraria Nazareth. You’ll find books and maps as well as stationery and other goodies perfect for browsing. It’s the oldest bookstore in Alentejo, filled with charm and so much to enjoy. Lots of great things for the kiddos too!
Cork
What would a visit to Evora be without exploring some of the wonderful products made from cork? Incomplete, we say! That’s why Mont’Sobro is a fun shop for checking out a vast array of items made with Portuguese cork. Located on Rua 5 De Octobre, it’s easy to find. And once inside, you can see shoes, purses, wallets, jewelry, and many other items made from cork. Perfect for gifts – even for yourself.
Evora Plaza
Evora Plaza brings mall shopping convenience to Evora. It includes over 80 stores, an Auchan supermarket, restaurants, and a cinema complex. Stores cover a range from electronics and apparel to home décor, as well as products for children and pets. Dining options include Portuguese as well as international flavors.
Evora Hotels
Now that you’ve got some idea of what to do, you can start planning if you want to stay over a night or two. Hotels in Evora Portugal provide a variety of options to suit your budget and your taste.
Convento Do Espinheiro, Historic Hotel & Spa
Just a few minutes away from the city center, Convento do Espinheiro is a gorgeous five-star reinvention of a 1400s convent. The property shines surrounded by beautiful gardens and with elegant décor throughout. Several dining options include fantastic Alentejo cuisine crafted by Chef Jorge Peças, a native-born and trained in Alentejo. There is also Divinus for Italian cuisine, a lounge, a wine bar, an indoor bar, and a pool bar. Rooms are plush and the hotel offers spa treatments for an exceptionally relaxing time. Indoor and outdoor pools. A health club with state-of-the-art equipment, a tennis court, and beautiful gardens marked with walking or jogging trails add that extra touch to the spectacular accommodations.
Baked cheese bowl in at Evora Vitoria Sto
Vitória Stone Hotel
The beautiful and sustainability-focused Vitória Stone Hotel synthesizes sleek, modern appeal, with traditional and earthy décor. Each room has its own private balcony. The rooftop bar serves handcrafted cocktails on a terrace with a stunning view of the city. Stone walls accent the sleek furnishings making the feel contemporary yet unhurried and comfortable. The Avista bar is a perfect spot to enjoy a leisurely drink or enjoy a light meal while watching the sunset. 5Amendoas Restaurant offers incredible dishes highly focused on Alentejo regional cuisine and products. The name pays tribute to the Alentejo tradition where groomsmen offer wedding guests almonds at the end of the ceremony. There’s also a panoramic outdoor pool, gym, sauna, and 24-hour business center available to guests during their stay.
Templo Boutique Hotel
A stone’s throw from the heart of the city, Templo Boutique Hotel is delightfully charming highly affordable, and conveniently located. Recently transformed into a 10-room hotel this is a great option for those traveling on a budget. With a range of room sizes from a single room to an apartment-like studio, high ceilings, and air conditioning. An excellent breakfast is also available at the hotel, it’s frankly, a steal. The cheerful staff will answer your questions. Make reservations at a local restaurant, and provide suggestions for sightseeing tours or points of interest. It’s close to all the action but is quiet for those who want to wind down after a big day.
Pousada Convento de Évora
If you want to be in the heart of it all, then the Pousada Convento Evora is for you. It’s steps away from the Roman Temple. We love Pousadas, which convert historic buildings into beautiful accommodations. Pousada Convento Evora (also known as Pousada dos Loios after the former convent) is no exception. The rooms are former monk’s cells, uniquely decorated and designed with luxurious décor and creature comforts making each one special. The Pousada has 24-hour reception, a business center, a restaurant, a bar, and room service. There’s free Wi-Fi. If you want to cool off and relax outside, there’s a beautiful swimming pool and area for lounging and a courtyard cloisters perfect for relaxing.
Pro Tip
Be aware that the Alentejo gets very hot in the warmer months. If you’re sensitive to heat, visit Évora in the fall or winter when temperatures are less intense. As a bonus prize, you’ll find flash sales and prices quite low in the off seasons. Getting to the most prized restaurants will be easier too.
For more about what to eat and where to dine in Evora, check out our latest article. To bring the tastes of travel home, try out some of our recipes like the delicious Carne de Porco Alentajana.
Once in a while, you discover a really special food that captures your heart and your imagination. For some of us, grilled halloumi cheese is one of those special taste treats.
Halloumi is a firm cheese that comes from the island of Cyprus in the Mediterranean. It’s traditionally made from a mixture of goat and sheep milk but can also be found made from cow’s milk today.
Its unique texture when cool could be described as rubbery. In fact, in many homes familiar with Halloumi, it often gets the nickname “squeaky cheese” because it kind of squeaks in your mouth when you bite down on it in cool form.
Halloumi Cheese
But like that great outfit that easily goes from daywear to party wear with just a little attention to detail, Halloumi transforms itself into a chewy, briny, crusty delight when pan-fried in olive oil or cooked on a grill. Its high melting point makes it easy to achieve a crust on the outside, while the inside gets deliciously soft.
While originating in Cyprus during the Medieval Byzantine period (AD 395-1191), Halloumi can now be found throughout the Middle East and is exported to many places around the world.
While the chill is hitting the air in many parts of the world, Halloumi packs a powerful protein punch and when combined with some greens and veggies, as in this easy salad recipe, provides a healthful but satisfying meal. Great for vegetarians and omnivores alike.
Halloumi is a delicious cheese that makes a wonderful topping for any salad.
Ingredients
Halloumi Cheese(Sliced into 1/2 inch thick slices)
Olive Oil(For brushing and drizzling)
Lettuce and Salad Greens
Vegetables(Tomatoes, Carrots, Cucumber whatever you prefer.)
Lemons(For squezing)
Warm pita bread
Instructions
1. Remove Halloumi from the package and cut it into thick slices, approximately 1/2 inch thick.
2. Prepare plates or bowls with mixed salad greens and vegetables to form a bed for the cheese.
3. Heat the grill pan or indoor or outdoor grill on medium heat.
4. Lightly brush the Halloumi slices with olive oil on both sides.
5. Place pieces of cheese on a hot grill pan or grill and cook on the first side until the cheese begins to soften and the outer side forms a crispy crust, about 2 minutes. Then flip the cheese and grill the other side. Do not overcook- just get the outside crispy.
6. Immediately place the grilled Halloumi on top of the salad beds and squeeze 1/2 fresh lemon over the grilled cheese and salad then sprinkle with olive oil.
Notes
Serve with warm pita bread for a healthy and hearty meal.
Course: Salad
Halloumi Salad
Once you’ve tried grilled halloumi cheese you’ll want to try it in as many ways as possible. Why not add it to your grilling skewers?
Grilled halloumi skewersGrilled Halloumi Salad in a pita
Or make some delicious halloumi burgers? Your recipes are only limited to your imagination. How about some fried halloumi?
Halloumi Burger
You can even make halloumi fries!
Halloumi Fries
Most large grocers do carry halloumi if yours doesn’t you can always order online or check out your local Middle Eastern or Mediterranean stores.
THE QUICK BITE: Halloumi cheese from Cyprus is a special ingredient that makes a wonderful Mediterranean meal that’s light yet hearty.
Visiting France has always been high on our travel planning lists. We enjoy the French way of life. The lifestyle of working to live, rather than living to work. Enjoying a glass of wine at lunch, savoring every meal, and enjoying each day for all it’s worth feel just right to us.
When we had the opportunity to visit Toulouse we were excited to go to a new city in France. No matter how much we prepare, research, and plan we always end up like wide-eyed children when we first arrive at a new destination. Toulouse, France was no exception. Our short drive from the airport to town transported us to a lovely city along the River Garonne. We knew we had arrived somewhere special.
Toulouse is located in southwestern France.
Toulouse The Pink City
The Toulouse population of 950,000, is the fourth largest city in France. The city has its own unique pink terra cotta bricks that explain its description as “the Pink City” or la Ville Rose.
The Capitole in Toulouse, France
The square that houses The Capitole is surrounded by interesting buildings and cafes to sip a cup of coffee or glass of wine. In a unique twist, you’ll find that the town hall also operates as an opera house.
The Great Stairway in The Capitole in Toulouse FranceSale des Illustres in The Capitole hosts official receptions and wedding celebrations.
An impressive selection of large tableaux covers many walls throughout the city hall. Each depicts the historical events of the city’s history.
The Capitole Square bustles day & night.
Famous pink stones are not the only fascinating aspect of architecture in this beautiful place. Roman and medieval history come to life as you walk the city streets.
Timbered buildings in ToulouseBeautiful courtyards are abundant in Toulouse.
Toulouse is a walker’s delight. Although there is an excellent public transportation system, we enjoyed great fun walking up and down the streets finding treasures along the way.
Tourism Pass
The city offers a Tourism Pass that starts at 15 euros and includes free entry to the museums in the city center, a guided tour from the Toulouse Tourist office, and free travel on the local transportation – metro, tram, bus, and airport shuttle bus. It also offers discounts at many other tourist sites and shops and things to do in Toulouse. You can purchase a 24, 48, or 72-hour card. Check here for all the details Toulouse-Visit.com.
Take Rue du Taur from the Capitole to Couvent des Jacobins.
We’d recommend traveling up the Rue du Taur when you leave Capitole Square. It’s an easy walk up this shopping street to Couvent des Jacobins. Founded by the Dominican order, this peaceful monastery and gardens encourage contemplation and serenity. Perhaps most importantly, it is the final resting place of Saint Thomas Aquinas and you will find his relics housed here.
Cloister at the Couvent des Jacobin in Toulouse.
Toulouse is also home to the UNESCO World Heritage site Basilica Saint-Sernin. It is the largest remaining Romanesque building in Europe. It is also along the route of the Santiago de Compostela pilgrimage route. The Way of St. James (in English) was one of the most important Christian pilgrimages during the Middle Ages.
Pastel the Toulouse violet.
You’ll discover many pastel products in Toulouse made from Isatis Tinctoria, the unique locally grown plant that provides a beautiful blue pigment. Mills in the area exported pastel products all over Europe. The industry suffered when the competition for “Chinese Pastels” from India grew. The business is being revived as more beauty and healthcare properties of pastel have become popular. We love the lavender scent and brought lots of pastel gifts home for friends and family.
Toulouse European Capital of Aeronautics and Space
You might be surprised to learn that Toulouse is the #1 city in Europe for the aeronautics and space industry. The Airbus headquarters are located in Toulouse. Intel and CNES’s Toulouse Space Centre, the largest space center in Europe, are also among the top companies in town.
La Cite de le’space Toulouse
The highly respected University of Toulouse is the fourth largest university in France and among the oldest in Europe.
Do you like fresh, local food prepared by passionate chefs and vendors? Then Toulouse is definitely for you. Here’s just a sampling of the many delicious food and amazing restaurants you will find.
Foie gras de canard with apricot chutney at Brasserie des Beaux Arts.
Located along the River Garonne, the Brasserie de Beaux Arts was originally the meeting place of students from the School of Fine Arts. Artists like Ingres and Matisse frequented the establishment and enjoyed the flavors of the area.
Goat Cheese and rosemary creme brûlée and crunchy vegetables at Brasserie des Beaux-Arts.
We started with the classic foie gras and sampled the Toulouse sausage which we were told is a special recipe for the region. It included lean and fatty chunks of pork – incredibly delicious!
Toulouse Sausage with homemade mashed potatoes a Brasserie des Beaux-Arts.Vintage Valrhona Illanka Chocolate dessert at Brasserie des Beaux-Arts.
Dinner is not complete without a perfect dessert and we were served a perfectly chocolatey rich dessert. It was rich, gooey, and undeniably tasty.
Vendor at Victor Hugo Market in Toulouse.
Much to Explore
The best way to be able to sample many local foods is to walk the streets of Toulouse. There are markets and shops on every street. One of the best and largest markets in town is the Victor Hugo Market.
Cheese vendor Betty at Victor Hugo Market.
The market has everything you’d expect and more. Vendors with fresh produce, flowers, cheese, meats, and fish abound. You’ll want to leave plenty of time to explore and sample your way through the tastes of the market. One of the things I love so much about visiting the markets is watching the locals shop, carefully evaluating options, choosing just right the items, making their purchases, and then heading off on their way knowing they’ve selected the perfect foods for their family’s breakfast, lunch or dinner.
Delicious veal in mushroom sauce at Villa Tropezienne.
Just across the street from the Victor Hugo Market is the restaurant Villa Tropezienne. It’s a typically delightful French bistro with indoor or outdoor seating. They offer typical bistro menu items like beef tartare, foie gras, salads, and much more.
Foie gras at Villa Tropezienne.
I have to admit that on this trip we sampled many different types of foie gras and pâté. We know they’re not for everyone but if you like these meaty treats, you will love the many delicious ways Toulouse serves them up.
Shaved foie gras at Le L Restaurant.
One of the most interesting selections was shaved foie gras which we tasted at the Le L Restaurant.
Local fish dish at le L RestaurantAmorino gelato
A Culinary Delight
As you’re exploring the streets of Toulouse be sure to stop and try the treats. Whether your passion is gelato, chocolates, wine, beer, or some other tasty bite or beverage, you’ll no doubt find it in Toulouse.
Sandyan Patisserie chocolate.Sorbet d’ Amour
The city has more than 1,700 places to eat so choosing which ones to check out may prove to be the most difficult part of your visit.
There are many outdoor cafés and bistros but we particularly enjoyed evening riverside revelers. On a Monday night, we witnessed young people relaxing along the river. Some shared a bottle of wine and takeout food. The cutest thing was watching riverside dancing by people of every generation that we heard happens just about every day.
As we wandered around the streets of Toulouse we found kebab stands and ethnic spots, gelaterias, pizza parlors, and hamburger places all open late.
Evening dancing by the river.
A City of Diversity
Because Toulouse is a university town that means lots of students. Lots of students mean a diverse community exists in Toulouse. Walking around the town you’ll find just about every type of ethnic dining option. It’s a modern metropolis with everything from kimchi to kebab, tapas to tikka masala, and much, much more. You’ll be able to quench your craving for cheap and cheerful ethnic eats in Toulouse.
A friendly and open city, Toulouse is very tourist-friendly and many people speak English here. There’s also a vibrant LGBT community and an active gay-friendly scene. If you’re interested, you can pick up the L’annuaire Solidaire guide to welcoming establishments while you’re there for all the details.
Where to Stay
We stayed at the deservedly five-star La Cour des Consuls Hotel and Spa which is part of the M Gallery by Sofitel. The luxurious hotel is centrally located, an easy to walk the to city center and the riverfront.
La Cour des Consuls Hotel & Spa
The rooms are spacious, comfortable, and beautifully appointed. Our stay included lovely continental breakfasts. You can have fresh French pastries, eggs prepared to your liking, meats, cheeses, fruits, and more. Frankly, there was a range of options available, far more than we could eat. The breakfast room was quiet, which we really appreciated.
Outdoor dining at La Cour des Consuls in Toulouse.
La Cour des Consuls’ gorgeous outdoor restaurant Le Cenacle lets you dine al fresco in the private courtyard. Michelin star chef Jerome Ryon has created a refined yet modern menu. It’s a lovely intimate dining experience.
The hotel also has a beautiful spa that uses local and luxurious Graine de Pastel products, which are also available in your room.
Toulouse Gateway to Southwest France
As we experienced it, Toulouse is a wonderful destination for Food Travelists. You can get there easily with a quick-hour flight from Paris via Air France. Once in Toulouse, you can also visit other major UNESCO sites such as the City of Carcassone, The Episcopal City of Albi, and the Port de la Lune in Bourdeaux. Toulouse is another historic, beautiful, welcoming, and delicious area of France that you should add to your travel plans. When you explore its many wonderful offerings and experiences, you will truly enjoy this unique and unforgettable city.
Thank you to Atout France for hosting us during our trip to the Midi-Pyrénées. We were not financially compensated. All opinions are our own and reflect our experiences.
I go back and read this post every year. I liked the idea then and I still like it now. In fact, I would say that now more than ever we need to take the time to stop, reach out and understand others around us. It doesn’t matter if they are next door or a thousand miles away.
I’d still offer the same advice as I did years ago. Go out and meet someone new, experience a new culture, understand your differences, and listen to their stories. Get involved, read, fact-check, and learn about everything you’re concerned about. Make a call, show up at a meeting, run for office! Have your own opinions based on facts you’ve learned and researched or experienced. It might be scary, but I guarantee you that you will grow and make a new friend or two along the way.
Although we’re now in Portugal we make even more effort to stay in touch with friends and family. Planning video calls to catch up to make sure that they know how much they mean to us. Life goes by swiftly if we don’t take the time to reach out there will come a day when we can’t. I encourage everyone to plan at least one catch-up call this week. You won’t regret it.
Happy Valentine’s Day to the World! People typically take time on Valentine’s Day to wish their loved ones a happy day and celebrate the love they share with each other. This usually takes many forms including buying gifts like candy, jewelry, lingerie, and many other romantic goodies. But I want to take this time on Valentine’s Day to say “I love you” to the world.
If I hadn’t had the opportunity to travel to so many countries I wouldn’t have the appreciation I have for my friends and family worldwide.
Diana Sue and Jan in Paris
Travel is a Luxury
I also wouldn’t have an appreciation of the diverse cultures and people from around the world. I grew up in the United States, it is a melting pot of so many wonderful different people and cultures yet we so rarely take the time to learn about them. So often, we tend to gravitate to people like ourselves. Let’s face it, it’s easy, a whole lot easier. Taking the time to meet someone new especially someone who lives outside of your neighborhood, or looks different can be challenging for some people. For most people.
The most important thing I’ve learned from all my travels is that every time I take the stop and open my mind and heart to others it’s always a wonderful surprise. Even someone who has a grumpy look may just need a “good morning” or a “how are you today?” to make them look at you just a little different and change that frown into a big old smile.
The pretzel lady at Oktoberfest.
I’m so lucky to have had the opportunity to meet many amazing people. People in places like Johannesburg, Dubai, Vienna, Kazakhstan, Vietnam, Munich, Sao Paulo, Brussels, Istanbul, Jordan, Beijing, London, Taipei, Paris, Kuala Lumpur, Madrid, Delhi, and many more, have changed my world forever. Some I still talk to and see on social media regularly. Some I may never see again. Either way, they have all helped to open my mind and make me see not only our differences but our commonalities as well.
Without these experiences, I would not know how lucky I am to be a woman able to start my own business, love whomever I choose, have a safe home, eat when I’m hungry, and drink fresh clean water when I’m thirsty. I am thankful every day for these luxuries that we sometimes take for granted.
I’ve had the opportunity to meet so many fellow travelers along the way and many of them I now call friends. I hope we all can keep sharing our passion for travel and the joy of learning about others.
Just One More Thing
My suggestion is on Valentine’s Day, why not get to know one new person? Maybe a co-worker, fellow student, shopkeeper, or anyone who is different than you in any way, and share a meal or cup of coffee or tea together either in person or virtually. I love getting together with friends for virtual tea parties. We have a chance to catch up, relax, and spend some time together.
Many of us get tired of the divisiveness and anger on our social media pages. Why not share something that is filled with love or gratitude? Why not brighten someone’s day?
We don’t know what is going on in someone’s life. Just the act of one person smiling at you or saying hello can completely change someone’s day, their week, and maybe even their life. Isn’t it worth the risk?
Have a real conversation and listen. Listen to their joys and concerns. Listen to how many of those things are the same as yours. Then share that story with a family member or friend or share it on social media where you can brighten even more people’s lives.
Happy Valentine’s Day To the World
I believe that this type of positive micro-interaction is exactly what can make the world smaller and bring it closer together. It seems like the world needs more love and more positivity than ever before.
Happy Valentine’s Day to the world, and you and yours. I hope you make the most of it. Share at least some of these ideas with a new friend or friends.
Share your favorite cookie recipes this holiday season.
The holidays are a wonderful time for baking treats. One of our favorites to share is this easy and delicious recipe for holiday treasure cookies that each come with a secret hidden delight.
My mother used to make these every holiday and store them in coffee cans in the cool cabinet in our kitchen. Being the organized German that she was, she took weeks to make dozens of Christmas cookies to share with family and friends. I have to admit that I would sneak into the cabinet and steal a few. I’m sure the tell-tale sign of the powder sugar trail gave me away every time. She never scolded me because she knew they were my favorites and still are to this day.
These wonderful treats have a crumbly, buttery outside hiding a delicious and surprising chocolatey burst inside. You can use any flavor of chocolate kisses you like or mix and match to enhance the surprise. I grew up with the standard milk chocolate Hershey kisses but now I prefer the dark chocolate kisses. Holiday and specialty flavor kisses would work well too.
We hope you try this recipe and it becomes one of your family’s favorites too.
1BagHershey's Kisses(Any flavor, although we prefer Special Dark)
1 1/2cupsConfectioner's Sugar
Instructions
Preheat oven to 375 degrees F.
Cream sugar, butter, and vanilla together until creamy, light, and fluffy.
Slowly add flour and blend well until flour becomes completely incorporated into the mixture forming a soft dough.
Refrigerate the dough for 2 hours or more until quite firm.
While the dough is chilling, unwrap the kisses.
When the dough is thoroughly chilled, take a spoonful and work gently with fingers to create a ball then flatten the ball into a small patty. Place a kiss in the center of the patty then pull up sides to wrap around a kiss. When the kiss is completely covered, roll dough in your palms (like a meatball) to shape it back into the ball. Place on ungreased cookie sheets. Repeat until all dough/kisses are in balls.
Bake for 10-12 minutes (depending on your oven)or until dough is no longer gummy and bottoms are slightly golden.
Cool for a few minutes on a cookie sheet, then place on a rack to coolentirely. Meanwhile, put confectioner's sugar in a large bowl.
When cookies are cooled, roll in confectioner's sugar to coat. When you have finished all the cookies with one coating, repeat so that each cookie has 2 coats of confectioner's sugar and is covered all around.
Course: Dessert
Keyword: Cookies, Holiday
Holiday Treasure Cookies the surprise is a chocolate kiss inside!
We hope you enjoy these little treasures. Watch out for the powdered sugar – it’s a bit messy but worth it!
If you’re looking for another terrific holiday cookie check out these Easy Chocolate Crinkles.
Happy Holidays!
THE QUICK BITE: If you’re looking for a new holiday cookie recipe try the Holiday Treasure Cookie. There’s a chocolate surprise in every cookie. They’re sure to be a new family favorite.
As we get ready to roast our turkey, make the cranberry sauce, and take some time off from work we’re reminded that not everyone has the luxury of eating a delicious meal in a warm home. We always look for ways to be thankful and help others during the holidays.
The realities of our world right now make even the simplest things we’re accustomed to so much more complicated. Be sure to take the time to relax, slow down, and enjoy the moments together whether in person or by video conference.
Enjoying A Wonderful Meal
We are lucky to be gathering with old friends and new ones in Portugal. We love still celebrating the Thanksgiving holiday and taking the time to be thankful for all the bounty in our lives.
We’ll also be connecting with friends around the world to say thank you for their friendship and their ongoing support. Together we’ll look at old photos of Thanksgiving celebrations gone by from that time we had cheeseburgers at the Hard Rock Cafe in Cancun to the time Diana cooked for our combined families and friends at our home in Chicago. I don’t even remember how many people were there but I still feel the love, happiness, and all the delicious food on that day and it lightens my heart.
We will remember those who won’t be at our tables this year. As we mourn for them we will honor their memories knowing that each one was a blessing to us all.
It’s Bigger Than Us
We tell people that the reason we started Food Travelist was to create peace on earth. We really believe that bringing people together around a table of delicious food helps them to see each other as people who have the same wants and needs, often highlighting how much we have in common rather than focusing on our differences. In order to do that people need to have food on their tables.
Every year we choose several charities to focus our giving on. Typically these organizations are those that concentrate on feeding people. This year more than ever it’s important for us to help feed people around the world.
We’d like to encourage you all to do the same if you can. While you are taking the time this year to be thankful for all the abundance in your life take a moment to help out those in need. It’s been a tough year for everyone especially our friends in the food and travel business. Even making a small donation will make a big difference in someone’s life.
Helping Others
Here are just a few charitable organizations that you can explore and hopefully consider donating to:
The project of Chef José Andrés and his wife Patricia has fed people all around the world. Going into areas hit with destruction from hurricanes, floods, disease, and wars. They have done things and fed more people than even the governments of those countries. They also work with local farmers and food purveyors to help them build back their businesses and teach them skills to be successful in the long run.
This United Nations agency was awarded the Nobel Peace Prize in October for its work to help stop world hunger during the coronavirus pandemic. Providing 138 million meals to the world’s hungry in more than 80 countries they have been fighting hunger and feeding people since 1962.
We’ve been supporters of Heifer for many, many years. We love the idea of providing the resources to end hunger and poverty with sustainable programs that support and invest in local farmers and their communities.
This Thanksgiving more American families will be visiting food banks than ever before. Feeding America feeds Americans in need through its nationwide network of food banks as they work to end hunger in the United States. According to their latest research, more than 50 million people may experience food insecurity in 2020 including potentially 17 million children, reflecting increased need because of the Coronavirus pandemic.
We supported GCFD when we lived in Chicago by donating food and by working at the facility that sorted everything that came in. They work with over 700 partners across Cook County to provide food for neighbors in need through food pantries, soup kitchens, shelters, and more. They have been serving Chicagoland for over 40 years.
This food bank is based in Portugal. Their website lets you easily make a donation to a specific city or area in Portugal. You can also choose what type of foods you would like to donate such as tuna, sausage, olive oil, milk, rice, and more.
These are really just a few of the organizations that you can reach out to. Please help feed those in need during this season and all year long. We hope you find a meaningful way to help others throughout the year.
May you and your families have a blessed and happy holiday. We are truly thankful to have you as part of our Food Travelist family.