New Year New You

Oh my goodness! It's that time of year again.  Time for a soliloquy. I like soliloquy rather than resolution because I reflect before I resolve.

Where have I been?  What have I learned?  What do I want and/or need to change?

Hmmmm, let me think.......

I've been to Egypt, Dubai, Croatia, Sheboygan, South Africa, Aruba, Brazil,  Denmark.

What I've learned along the way?

• "There is nothing to fear but fear itself." I went hang gliding in Brazil. The experience was liberating and absolutely breathtaking! I will add an adventure to my travels. Stepping out of your comfort zone will renew your confidence and perspective.
• Sustainability is easier than you think for yourself and your country.  We'd all be better off for it.  In Denmark I visited a hotel that operates mostly on this principle.  From the design and construction of the building to the food.  Solar panels are built in, ground water is used to heat and cool the building, the wasted food, which there is a ton of at hotels, is used as compost in their organic farm, the country has the largest wind turbine plants in the world, 80% of the people bike and there are concessions for electric cars for 10 years! I will be mindful of the footprints I leave behind. I will use my towel more than once. I will use the toiletries until they are gone before getting new ones. I will take a walking tour or rent a bike for my health and the health of the environment.  I might even take a Voluntourism trip.  Might is the operative word. I'm a work in progress.
• The middle east is just as diverse as any other part of the world.  Egypt is a mix of liberal and conservative Muslims but overall more liberal with ancient structures and history.  No alcohol is served outside of hotels and cruise ships while Dubai, UAE is far more conservative in Islamic practice but far more modern. Basically catering to foreign vacationers and alcohol is served at just about any establishment that caters to foreign visitors. I will not judge on outer appearances or what I've heard.  this is part of getting to know the locals.  You'd be surprised what you might learn about people.  It could confirm your beliefs or change them.
• Dubrovnik is beautiful and very classic European. I've been pronouncing it wrong.  The emphasis is on Du not Brov. It's DUbrovnik vs. DuBROVnik. It's been just 20 years since Croatia declared it's independence from the former Yugoslavia. And 13 years since Serbia occupied a piece of Croatia. Can't believe it's been that long. Time does fly as you mature.LOL
• In Aruba everyone is affectionately called mi dushi, Papiamento for my sweet or sweetie.  Call someone Mi Dushi and they will love you for it.  It doesn't seem to matter who you are speaking to.  We came upon a public official and our guide called out to her "hey mi dushi." Pronounced dooshee. Hmmm, should we refer to our politicians as sweetie?
• South Africa remains one of my favorite destinations.  It's now on the list of emerging markets or as we call them in the industry BRICS (Brazil, Russia, India, China & South Africa).  I came upon a lot of nationals traveling and vacationing within their own country.  That's a great sign. When I revisit a destination, I will try something different, visit a new place, meet new people.
• Sheboygan was a nice getaway and road trip.  Sometimes you don't have to travel far for a cultural experience.  Yes, I said cultural experience.  Each of our states and cities have their own culture.  Sheboygan is a quiet seaside resort town with a close knit community.  Lake Michigan is really an inland sea! This was my second deep sea fishing adventure but my first catch.  It was a five pound lake salmon.  They smoked it for me and mailed it to me. OK, we did not go out that far but it was far enough.  It wasn't a thirty pound marlin but it was just right for me.
• I gained 10 pounds last year after working hard to take off 50 pounds two years prior. The good news is that I'm already back on track. That being said, I know the error of my ways during my travels and will not consume every meal as if it's a crucial part of my travels. When I'm just eating for sustenance I will do so mindfully and save the calories for the meals that really are crucial to my travels.
• I work in the travel industry so this may sound funny to you but I will take a vacation. I haven't had one in at least 4 years. All of my travels have been for work. You may not have sympathy for me but understand that what I do is work.
• I will engage more with the locals. Maybe even invite someone to coffee just to chat and really learn about the country and the people. It's interesting to hear what people think about their country, your country and the world. Especially what they pay in taxes.
• I will say hello, please and thank you more and learn it in as many languages as I can. It's fun and the response you get is priceless.

This is what I plan to do for the New Year and beyond. I hope that I make it such a habit that it will forever be a part of what I do.

What will you do?

Happy New Year and resolve to travel and experience!

Ja'Vonne Harley

HOLIDAY CHEER

Hey Guys,

We're bring you some holiday cheer with some cocktails from different places.

Mexican Hot Chocolate:

In a sauce pan simmer 2 cups of milk, 1oz. unsweetened Chocolate, 2tbs. of brown sugar, pinch of salt, pinch of red chili flakes, 1/4 of a vanilla bean (scraped out) and cinnamon. I like to scrape right off a cinnamon stalk to taste.

After you simmer, add 2 tbs of Godiva Dark and White Chocolate Liqueur(each), Dark Rum (Meyers), and Goldschlager (Cinnamon Schnapps...also the gold flakes add a nice touch)

Pour into cup, add Whipped Cream, drizzle some chocolate or caramel over top and stick in 1/2 a cinnamon stick.

***To make this for kids or people who are driving....skip the BOOZE!***

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Candy Cane Martini:

First crush up a bunch of cany canes into an almost powder form (small chunks are OK but no bigger than a sequin)

Rim a martini glass with simple syrup and roll rim in crushed candy cane (just like salting a rim for a Margarita)

In a Mixing Tin combine 3oz. of Vanilla Vodka and 1oz. of Pepermint Schnapps.

Shake and pour into Martini glass.

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Chocolate Raspberry Martini:

First Drizzle some chocolate syrup into a martini glass (do anything be creative....no matter what you do it WILL NOT look bad)

In a Mixing Tin combine 3/4oz. Godiva Dark Chocolate Liqueur, 1/2oz. of Chambord (pronounced Schaum-Borg) Black Raspberry Liqueur

1/4oz. Baileys Irish Cream, 1/4oz. of Raspberry Vodka and a splash of cream.

***can substitute Dark Chocolate with White Chocolate for awesomeness***

Shake and pour into Martini glass, garnish with raspberries or chocolate covered raspberries.

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Rudolph Love Potion:

In a Mixing Tin combine 1/2oz Godiva Dark and White Chocolate Liqueur (each), 1/2oz. of Chambord, 1/2oz. of Raspberry Vodka.

Shake and pour over a cocktail ("rocks") glass filed with ice.

Gentely pour Cream on top, you will see it float.

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As for some "casual" cocktails:

Screwdriver: 1oz. Vodka fill with OJ

Madras: 1oz. Vodka fill with OJ and Cranberry

Baybreeze:1oz. Vodka fill with Cranberry and Pineapple

Sex on the Beach: 1/2 oz. Vodka, 1/2oz. Peach Schnapps fill with Cranberry and Oj

Melon Ball: 1/2oz. Midori, 1/2oz. Vodka fill with OJ

Watermelon: 1/2oz. Midori, 1/2oz. Vodka fill with Cranberry

Fuzzy Navel: 1oz. Peach Schnapps fill with OJ

Hairy Navel:1/2oz. Peach Schnapps, 1/2oz. Vodka fill with OJ

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Gimlets: A Gimlet is 1 1/2oz. of ANY Liquor and 1/2oz. Roses Lime Juice in a cocktail ("rocks") glass with ice

IE: Absolut Gimlet:1 1/2 Absolut Vodka, 1/2oz Roses Lime Juice

Always Poured over ice with a lime wedge garnish.

* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *

Recipes provided by Jim Anderson, Master Mixologist and Managing Instructor with ABC Bartending Schools.

www.abcbartendingschools.com

Copenhagen, Denmark Day Three

It's my last day in Copenhagen and I wake up to another snowy day.  Except today I have visibility.  It's cloudy, light snow and cold.  The cold doesn't bother me because I brought the right clothes.  Sweater dresses are my new best friend.  they're warm, fashionable, comfortable and a single item which means you pack less.  It also meant that I did not have to change for dinner. I'm glad I brought my Aqua Italia boots.  The heel is a bit high but they are good looking, comfortable and waterproof.  One more thing I'm happy with and that is my wide brim fedora.  It's keep my head warm and replaces an umbrella....I have to mention it looks good too. I don't believe you have to sacrifice fashion for function. LOL

My impression of Denmark

Laila Pawlak

OK, now I'm ready to face Copenhagen one more time.  Our first stop is Dare2Mansion, a professional playground for corporate events and executives.  One of they're sessions is with Lego's.  We create two groups and within our groups we build with Lego's to express our ideas at the direction of our facilitator and the founder, Laila Pawlak.  Her energy is magnetic.  Great team building and think tank type of exercise.  And, you get to play and imagine.  By the way, Lego was created in Denmark by Ole Kirk Christiansen in his carpentry workshop.  The pieces then were made of wood but after WWII plastics were made available and the Lego empire grew with Ole Kirk's imagination.






Now it's time to put on some hard hats.  I've done many site inspections of hotels and some during renovations but this is the first time I've done a site inspection of a hotel that was under complete renovation and an actual construction site.  It's quite nice to see it from this perspective.  They are keeping the historical foundation and some of the structural element and there is one completed room for viewing.  This is going to be a fantastic property.  Hotel D'Angleterre will be a five star, Leading Hotels of World property and will open May 2013.  They are offering some great rates for the opening of 75% off the rack rate.


Lunch time is fast approaching or so my stomach tells me so and we head to signatur-spisehus.dk.  Love this restaurant.  It looks like the place for the "business lunch". Dark wood tables, funky artwork, high ceilings and all window front.  The food is good too.  I see a lot of orders of Smorrebrod, that Danish open face sandwich passing by.  I order the roasted pork sandwich because it's the restaurants signature sandwich.

After another venue site inspection at Moltkes Palae, a place for conferences, banquets and dinners, we walk to the city center, Queen's Palace and Royal Copenhagen.  Wish I had video at the Queen's Palace.  I'm chasing the guards to get a photo but they keep marching and then with a quick about face back to their posts.  It doesn't look like they're moving fast but it's hard for me to keep up and get in front of one of them.  All of my photos are side views and I never manage to get in one with one of them.  I did to my surprise get one of them to turn his head and look at me.  I thought they were unflappable but I guess my silliness got his attention.  Royal Copenhagen is a historical store famous for it's porcelain, Christmas items and Christmas Tables. Love the shopping in Copenhagen and I'm mad at myself for not purchasing something. I really wanted a fur hat but because it got slippery outside I didn't go back to get it.

It's our last night and we finish it with dinner at a very unique restaurant, Sankt Gertrud's Kloster.  Dating back to the 14th century this restaurant has no electricity and is lit with over 1500 candles.  It's mysterious, romantic and a bit eerie.  They had me at the Champagne Room and extensive wine cellar.  They also have champagne saboring. And the food is delicious.  Surprising because in my experience, when a restaurant is ultra unique, the food is often not very good. Great way to end the trip! Thanks Visit Copenhagen.

Yours truly,
Ja'Vonne
 

Copenhagen, Denmark Day Two

Hello again,

It's day two.  I woke up and could not see a thing out my window.  It's very cloudy and snowing! We started with a visit to the Carlsberg Brewery.  Yep, beer at 9:30am.  Now, that's how you start your day.

Carlsberg is not only a brewery it's a great venue to have a welcome or farewell dinner.  The grounds are beautiful complete with gardens and the facility is beautifully decorated with tradition and elegance.  Carlberg is a Danish brewery that was established in 1847 and has been successfully brewing beer ever since.  they have introduced a new beer called Copenhagen where they blend yeast from champagne with the hops from beer.  It's a light and refreshing taste without the bitterness of beer that some people, especially women don't like. 

Our next stop was for a demonstration of one of Denmark's national dish, Smorrebrod, or "open face sandwich".  It's made with buttered rye bread and typically three courses, starting with hard boiled egg, mayonnaise, shrimp, lemon and fresh dill. The second is fried fish fillet, roumelade, lemon, pickles, tomato, cucumber and fresh dill.  The final sandwich is roasted pork with crispy skin, pickled cabbage, prunes, pickles, mayonnaise and fresh dill.


We first had a demonstration and then we all made our own sandwiches.  The sandwiches are actually quite large and very filling and did I mention Delicious?  the new thing for those with less of an appetite is Smushi.  This are bite sized versions of the sandwiches.  There is another typical and traditional Smorrebrod we did not have and that was pickled herring.  They weren't sure if we would care for herring.

the rest of the day was spent visiting hotels and I must say that I was quite impressed with the Crowne Plaza for the "green" philosophy.  The Crowne Plaza uses Solar energy and harnesses the ground water for their heating and cooling system.  Even their toiletries are in biodegradable containers mad with corn.  The other stand out is the Hilton.  It's an airport hotel that is above the rest.  I especially want to thank our hosts for the way in which they greeted us. when we arrived we were directed to one of their ball rooms.  the room was darkened and there were two large screens projecting a fireplace.  there were chairs arranged in a half circle each with a small foot spa ready for us.  What a way to end a day of touring and site inspections.  Oh,how can I forget....champagne was involved!


The European delegates left us and head back to their home countries.  Now we are six and all North America.  We are now five women and one man, the one man happens to be our neighbor to the north, Canada.  Now that we are a smaller party we have dinner at a quaint restaurant in the downtown area called Restaurant Gronnegade.  Absolutely love this place. Small, cozy, friendly and the food is well presented and excellent.  the owner, Eva Jerris served us with superb service.

It's been a long and wonderful day...Tomorrow will be at a slower pace, it will be clearer and colder...The forecast says the high will be 28 degrees.  I should have brought my Uggs.

until tomorrow...

Ja'Vonne

Copenhagen, Denmark Day One

Hey guys,

I just arrived in Copenhagen, Denmark.  My very first visit.  I boarded a non-stop flight from Chicago O'Hare's airport to Copenhagen.  It's a very nice flight.  I was in Premium Economy and it reminded me of the old Business Class.  Remember when there was a First Class, Business Class and Economy Class?  Well, that's what SAS's Premium Economy Class is like.  starting with the check in and boarding process. The seats are larger than standard economy and recline slightly with an elevated foot rest and the meal service was slightly different than economy.  I was pleasantly surprised.  Oh, by the way...loved the extra thick blankets that we almost as thick as a comforter.  I needed it because it was a bit cold.

My very first impression after leaving the airport is that it's classic European.  A little bit of contemporary and modern mixed in but at first glance very European.

Oh, I have to share this with you. You know that I'm a Starbucks fan.  After collecting my luggage and "nothing to declare" to by pass customs, I noticed Starbucks.  I could not resist and headed over to purchase my usually, Triple Venti Latte with 2% milk.  I was informed that have 1.5% or 3%.  I went with 1.5%.  Upon paying I swiped by debit card and a selection came up for currency. 56DK or $10.07 USD.  That's right $10.07 for a latte.  the same on I would pay $5 for in the US.  I know....$5 is even too much but $10.07 is where I draw the line.  You'd be proud of me because I canceled my order.  $10.07 REALLY?

This evening we had dinner inside Tivoli Gardens at Brdr Price.  Tivoli Gardens is world famous.  In the 18th and 19th centuries pleasure parks were prominent in and throughout Europe.  These parks were called Tivoli or Vauxhall.  In 1896 Copenhagen created it's own Tivoli and while the others in Europe went away Copenhagen's Tivoli remains today.  It has evolved over the years adding amusement, restaurants and other attractions, and just 10 years ago it began its Christmas theme.  Needless to say this is a great time to visit. Tivoli Gardens is festive and boasts a well lit Christmas theme at night.  Everything from Christmas gnomes to a beautifully lit Prussia, Chinese Garden, Toy Soldiers and dancing bears just to name a few.

Well, it's getting late and I'm a bit tired from the 8 hour flight and days activities.

I'll talk to you tomorrow!

Regards,
Ja'Vonne

Destination Weddings "When Things Go Wrong"

Last week on our show we interviewed wedding expert and owner of JustMarry, Susan Southerland for some tips on Destination Weddings "When Things Go Wrong".  While Destination Wedding can me wonderful you have to protect yourself and your investment when planning to have one.  We often don't think of the "What if's" and as Susan told us we should.  Here are her tips:

• Select a good and reputable wedding planner.  Don't try to do it on your own because this day and event should be one that you relish.  You shouldn't be the one handling all of the details and an expert has contacts, relationships and experience!
• Pay attention to the contact! The wedding planner should give you a contract that includes all of the services and details of your event.  Ask questions and negotiate, especially when it comes to the vendors like hotels, ground services, cancellation, changes and contingencies.
• Get insurance for your wedding and travelers insurance for the trip.  Also, advise your friends and family to buy travelers insurance as well.  It will protect the cost of the trip in the event of the unforeseen.  Travelers Insurance and regular insurance does not cover for "cold feet".
• When things go wrong, don't become a Bridezilla! Know and discuss your options and remember You attract more bees with honey!

Ja'Vonne Harley, Co-Host, The Traveling Eye

TIMESHARES...WHAT YOU WISH YOU KNEW

We recently interviewed Brian & Bill Rogers of Timeshare Users Group (TUG) on our show, The Traveling Eye.  Bill, the father and founder of TUG told us that there's no "in the middle" for Timeshare Owners.  You either love it or hate it.  Why because you either understand the business of Timeshare ownership or don't.  This is exactly why we did the show and looked to TUG for some expert advice.

I think we have all been to a presentation or two.  For my husband it became a sport to find and receive the best prize when we were traveling.  My issue was to get that prize you had to endure the sales presentation.  You were promised a 90 minute presentation but it was never 90 minutes.  I started to calculate the amount of time we spent getting to the appointment, the 90 minute presentation, the wave of managers who won't take no for an answer and finally leaving and discovered it wasn't worth the prize.  I, of course had to convince my husband of this and finally insist.  Anyway, I don't want to go off on my own tangent.

Here's are the things you wish you knew before you bought that Timeshare or even went to that presentation.

• It's not a one time deal.  The sale person will be all too happy to receive a phone call from you at a later date if you want to purchase.
• You can cancel if you buy but there is a time limit and sometimes that time limit is only a few days and it may expire before your vacation is over.
• Choose a place you'd like to visit year after year.
• Consider your family dynamic. If you have children choose a two bedroom unit.  If you are a couple then a one bedroom is fine.
• But a popular season
• Buy what you can afford to pay cash for - it's a luxury and shouldn't be financed and the financing is very high.
• Know what the maintenance fee is
• Check on special assessments.  Sometimes "great deals" are for resorts with heavy assessments.
• Don't buy with the expectation of making a profit
• Buy a resort with a heavy demand for rentals and exchanges.
• There are two different types of Timeshares Deeded and RTU or Right to Use.  The later is usually in Mexico and means you do not own real estate, you have the right to use it for specified period of time like 20 years or so.
• Learn the business of exchanges.  There is a network of Timeshares that are exchanged so you can use anothers time at another resort.  You have to be a member of one of the exchange companies like RCI or Interval.  Fees are associated with it.

The biggest tip of the day was to RENT a timeshare.  You don't have to own one to rent one.  Many Timeshare owners who can't use their Timeshare will list their time for rent.  You can find Timeshare Rentals on TUG's website through their network of owners or go on EBay.  The savings can be as much as 80%.

For more information go to www.tug2.net

Ja'Vonne Harley
Co-Host, The Traveling Eye

WHEN THE CLOCK STRIKES MIDNIGHT A NEW DAY BEGINS

Rule # 25: When the clock strikes midnight a new day begins.

THE STORY:

I had a group from Milwaukee going to Jamaica a few years ago.  The group decided to take a non-stop flight from Chicao's O'Hare airport and charter a bus from Milwaukee.

The trip was a three night package from Thursday - Sunday.  The flight was scheduled to depart from O'Hare Thursday morning at 6am.  Therefore the check in time for the flight was 4am.  The bus from Milwaukee was scheduled to depart @ 1am Thursday morning.  We sent flight confirmations and bus departure information to all of the travelers.  The bus information indicated the following: "The chartered bus will depart promptly from (address) at 1am on Thursday, November 1."

Well, all but two passengers departed on the bus from Milwaukee.  Friday morning my office received a phone call from these two passengers stating that they arrived at the location in Milwaukee and the bus never showed up.  They were actually early and had waited beyond the departure time.  We were a bit confused beacuse 1) it's Friday morning not Thursday morning and we were wondering why they waited a full day to contact us and 2) they could have possibly attempted to get to O'Hare on their own to avoid missing the flight to Jamaica.

After a long and confusing conversation we discovered that they actually showed up at the rendevouz point on Friday, November 2 at 1am.  We kindly explained that the departure was the day before on Thursday, November 1 at 1am as indicated on the letter. Of course, we double checked the letter to verify the information.  This is when they explained to us that our letter was misleading and should have read "Wednesday night into Thursday morning" because "when you say Thursday, at 1am it is understood as Thursday night into Friday morning"

Rule # 25: When the clock strikes midnight a new day begins!

Ja'Vonne Harley
Co-Host, The Traveling Eye
Owner, Advantage International, LLC

UNACCOMPANIED MINOR

When your child needs to travel alone preparing them well in advance will make the world of difference.  If they know in advance what to expect it will make if fun for them and limit some of the fear or anxiety, especially for TSA.

• You should educate yourself and your child on the policies and procedures.
• They should know what to expect and how they should be handled by the airline and staff.
• Contact the airline for their policies on pricing, age requirements, flight cancellations and delays.
• Try to avoid a connecting flight if possible but if necessary give more than the minimum connecting time to avoid missed connections and possible stand by situations.
• Familiarize yourself with the connecting airport, the arrival and departure gates.  Most airports have a website and layouts on their website.
• Try to book them during less busy times like the middle of the day and steer clear from late night flights that could result in a night at the airport.
• This is certainly a good time to give your child a cell phone if they don’t already have one and have them call or text you when they land and just before take-off when they’re on the plane and before the shut off electronic announcement. (Remember the two children who were scolded for violating this policy)
• They should also report to you any delays or cancellations to you immediately.
• Give them some cash for snacks and a gift card for emergencies.
• The most important thing is to have a plan and to make sure that the drop off and pick up persons have complete details on the process of an unaccompanied minor.

Yours Truly,
Ja'Vonne

Hi Traveling Eye Family!

Ja'Vonne, Howard, and I are in Aruba for the 6th Annual Caribbean Sea Jazz Festival.  We have been here for a few days and I can understand why Festival Director Erik Jan Eman chose Aruba as the destination for this popular festival.  The sun, beaches, wonderful hotels, easy access from anywhere and the people of Aruba are so hospitable. 

Randy Brecker

Performances are held on three stages and this year's line up is incredible.  Chaka Khan, Oscar D'Leon, Fourplay, Randy Brecker,  Pete Philly,

 Kuenta I Tambu, and the list goes on and on of great musicians dedicated to all types and combinations of Jazz and music. 

Last evening was the official first night of the festival featuring Fourplay and Chaka Khan on the main stage. I  love jazz but if I could have only attended one night of the festival, last night would have been it.  

Nathan East and Chuck Loeb of Fourplay

One of my favorite groups in music is Fourplay. The quartet is made up of Bob James on the piano, Chuck Loeb on guitar, Nathan East on Bass and Harvey Mason on drums.  Last night the weather in Aruba was humid and warm.  These guys took the stage and raised the heat tenfold.  I have gone to a lot of concerts and to be honest I have become jaded in a way that I have forgotten how to thoroughly become involved with the experience.  Last evening, Foreplay was the cure.  I let go and allowed the music, the performances of Bob, Chuck, Nathan, and Harvey, and the spirit of the crowd envelope me and take me to a place of freedom. (wow, that sounded almost deep). They played all of their hits and left us wanting more.  The great part is not only did they sound great, they looked as if they were having so much fun doing.  When I got back to our hotel I pulled out the Ipod and listened to their self titled album way into the morning.

Howard Little and Chaka fans

Chaka Khan closed the evening and everyone, especially Traveling Eye videographer, Howard Little, was ready for the voice to come to the stage. 

Chaka Khan

 I will stop here to say that Chaka looked awesome.  She has lost weight, looks healthy and her voice was "off the chain."  She sang her songs from "Rags to Rufus" and beyond. I felt as if all of the thousands of people in the audience were in her studio and she was singing what she wanted and we were her background singers.  Her band was tight and her real background singers were strong and on point.  Chaka had on this cute black outfit with black boots and was burning up the weather was so hot but it didn't stop her.  She danced, teased the audience, spoke a little Papiamento (the native language of the people of Aruba), and gave props to Whitney Houston for doing justice to the song, "I'm Every Woman."  It was a wonderful way to end the first night of the Caribbean Sea Jazz Festival. 

 

Tonight we look forward to Randy Brecker Band, Pete Philly, and Oscar D'Leon.

Until next time, keep your EYE to the sky!

Bonnie

Hi Everyone!

The Traveling Eye is in Aruba at the Caribbean Sea Jazz Festival!  Not only are we enjoying the festival, which I will get to in future post, but I am having a great time getting to know Aruba the destination.

Our first day was a busy one. With  Ernest Giel, Aruba Tourism Authority Visitor Care Liaison, as our guide, we received an up close look at the east side of the island and experienced a taste of how Arubians live. Aruba is 19.6 miles long and 6 miles wide.  Sounds small but it certainly doesn't feel like it as you drive along this peaceful and beautiful island.  We drove along beautiful natural areas until we came to the Caribbean Sea. Quite an impressive view of the this body of water that surrounds Aruba.
  

We stopped at "Baby Beach", it's not as big as the other beaches, hence the name, located in Seroe Colorado at the southeastern end of the island.  School children are on vacation this week so there were quite a few families enjoying the shallow waters of the beach. Right on the beach is an Aruba icon of  beach cuisine, "Big Mama Grill."  Ernest told us that fishermen catch the fish of the day, bring it to the restaurant and it is cooked up right then for you to eat. It is truly the freshest catch of the day.

 We didn't stop to eat there because Ernest had a lunch treat for us at a restaurant called  Cuba's Cookin!  It is a quaint restaurant located downtown with beautiful art work on the walls.








Ja'Vonne had the Ceviche del dia made with fresh caught grouper. Not only did it look good, Ja'Vonne said it refreshing and quite good.  She offered to share but I was enjoying my dish to much. And if she shared with me then I would have to share mine with her.  Right?

I had the Confusion Epanadas. Cuban Pastiches filled with beef, chicken, or fish. It was moist, favorable, and the really, really good.

We ate outside while watching the world go by.  The food was good, and the atmosphere was great.

Ernest Giel, Aruba Tourism, Ja'Vonne, Howard Little 

When coming to Aruba, I would suggest you take time out to get to personally know the island and the people.  Both are warm, inviting, and the key to making your trip a memorable one.


Until next time, keep your EYE to the sky!
Bonnie

Keeping Your Home Safe When You Travel

I travel a lot which means I'm away from home and it also means that I think about home safety and security.  I have a few things that I do but I'm always on the prowl for tips and useful information on keeping my home safe.  I live in a condominium and recently received a notice under my door that our building had two break ins.  Both break-ins occurred when the home owners were out of town.  This means that someone must have known they weren't home.  You couldn't get any closer to home than this so I decided to do "Ja'Vonne's Travel Minute", a weekly travel vignette that I do on our show The Traveling Eye on keeping your safe when you travel.  Doing my research I came across an article in Readers Digest titled "13 Things You Never Knew About Home Safety". While not all of these tips are for when you're away, a lot of them were.

1. Sock away your valuables in your children's room because most burglars don't go in there.
2. Plant thorny bushes under a low window.  It's decorative and a deterrent
3. Ask a neighbor to be on the look out for fliers in your door and collect them if they're there.  This is a trick burglars use.  They leave a flier and then come back later to see if it's still there.
4. Turn your phone ringer on low or off
5. If you don't have a security system get a decal for display
6. Join a neighborhood watch
7. Don't load up the car until the morning you're leaving
8. if you have a security key pad make sure the display it is not visible.
9. Take care of mail slots that are in doors.  There's a more strategic place for it.
10. Keep your car keys next to your bed on your night stand
11. Store wood away from windows or any home entry point
12. When you have workers in your home do a security sweep of your home when they leave.
13. choose your locksmith wisely.

Ja'Vonne Harley, The Wanderlusting Foodie
Co-host, The Traveling Eye
Co-owner, Advantage International, LLC

The Taste of Rio

What's the first thing that comes to mind when you think of Rio?  I bet it's not food!  Well, Rio has wonderful food. Of course, you can partake in continental cuisine, everything from pizza to burgers, the usual comfort foods. And, of course you can go to a fancy restaurant for nouveau this or that and fusion this or that but Rio is a casual place and all about it's culture and people.  So... we went for the local and national dishes.  The dishes and foods that tell you the story and history of the people.  I always say, if you want to know someone find out what that they eat and how it's prepared.  You're sure to get a story as well.

We started our food tour with one of the most famous style of restaurants in Brazil, the churrascia.  This is a Brazilian steak house or BBQ.  Churrascaria's have made their way around the world and gained popularity among meat eaters.  I remember my first visit to Rio in the 80's and eating at a churrascaria.  Then it was a plain and simple feast.  Meats were brought to your table and carved onto your plate.  Your table was set with sides and that was it.  There was no salad bar or sushi bar and there was no seafood.  But, with the growth of the churrascia, over the years I've seen this change not only in the states but in Brazil as well.  Now, they are complete with seafood, salad bars and sushi.  You may see some variances at the different restaurants in what they serve but the one thing that remains the same is the BBQ, the meat.  This is what we all come for, when our taste buds crave meat and we allow ourselves and our insatiable appetite to feast.  On this trip we went to the Churrascia Palace, just a block or two from our hotel in the Copacabana area.  The Churrascia Palace is a fairly small restaurant. In the back is a banner sized mural with caricatures of famous people.  Below the mural and mirror is a small stage with a piano.  Some nights there is a piano player.  We were there for lunch so no piano player. 

 

Just after we were seated a gentleman came to our table with a cart of libations.  We went for the caipirinha since it is the national drink.  Here the caipirinhas are made to order table side.  Fresh limes are muddled with sugar until the juice is extracted.  Then, the glass is fill with ice and cachaca (a Brazilian brandy made from sugar cane).  The contents of the glass are then poured into a shaker and shaken until the ingredients are thoroughly mixed and finally poured into a glass and now yours.  Delicious and the perfect drink to go with all that meat.

 

And now it begins, the parade of servers with meats on large skewers presented to you for your selection.  Yes or no to lamb, chicken, shrimp, beef, sausages, pork and ribs. There are some traditional sides on the table but we ignore them just as we did the salad bar and sushi bar, that we didn't even realize was there until later. Not that they weren't worthy but we came for the BBQ and were a bit narrow sighted.

Our next food adventure is Feijoada.  Feijoada is the national dish of Brazil that historically gets it roots from the slaves.  Scraps of beef and pork like the ears, tails and feet were given to the slaves and they made a delicious and soulful meal out of these scraps along with black beans and rice.  I'm told that when a family prepares Feijoada they spend all day in the kitchen and all afternoon and evening at the table with friends and family.  Just don't forget the music and some caipirinha's.  I would absolutely love to enjoy home cooked Feijoada with a Brazilian family.  Maybe I'll be able to do so on my next visit.  For now and much to our delight we are enjoying Feijoada at the Casa de Feijoada.  Casa de Feijoada is a quaint restaurant located in the Ipanema area.  I just love the atmosphere.  The first thing we are served is a black bean soup and an aperitif made with cachaca and fruit juice.  We were given passion fruit, lime and honey to try.  The alcohol really helps with the heavy and hearty meat dishes. 

 

We were talking and all of sudden we heard this sizzling sound and pots of sizzling meats and juices were placed on the table along with various sides like black beans, rice, pork rinds (not the kind from the bag but made fresh), collard greens, manioc (a root that I think is a lot like yucca), farofa (toasted and ground manioc) and hot sauce.  While here, the pots are not filled with the aforementioned parts of the pig, the meats that are in the pots are seasoned with them.  Our pots are filled with beautiful cuts of meat and the most delicious sausages.  Everything goes so well together.  OK, now our bellies are full and we could go to sleep.

It just keeps getting better.  After our tour and visit to the Rocinha community we head to lunch at a restaurant named A Mineira.  We had no idea what we were in for.  A Mineira is a chain restaurant throughout Rio and Sao Paulo and features cuisine from the Minas Gerais state, the second most populous state in Brazil that is very rural and has much farm land.  It appears to me that this is a mix of Brazilian fare.   A little bit of Feijoada, BBQ and other local favorites and very typical South American flavors.  I love that the price is right and even though it's a buffet, the food is fresh, delicious and still tastes home made.  They also have a tasting of cachaca served in a mini barrel with tiny glasses.  You can help yourself to as much as you want but be careful because this is not flavored or watered down and can put some hair on your chest.

On our last night we went to Lapa, an area in downtown Rio where the locals hang out on pedestrian streets at local bars and eateries.  Some of the streets are always pedestrian but some of the main streets become closed to vehicular traffic on certain days and during certain hours.  The vibe is relaxed and lively at the same time.  How can that be? Well, people are just chilling with food, drink and conversation but are alive with the spirit of a good time.  That's what I mean and as I said on an earlier post "I'm a bit jealous that we don't have that same attitude towards enjoying life, plain simple life".  How does this fit into the food tour of Rio?  We parked ourselves at one of the restaurants.  The restaurants are small and have the option of indoor or outdoor seating.  We chose outdoor seating.  The local favorite or bar food, fried chicken pieces with french fries and a bottle of local beer.  This style of fried chicken is called Frango a Passarinho.  The chicken is cut into small pieces with the bone in, seasoned with salt, garlic and herbs and fried to perfection.  Giordanna, our guide tells us to squeeze lime juice over the chicken, it adds that extra tang.  I fell in love with this dish and ordered it again when we stopped at a kiosk bar on the beach of Copacabana. The other is pao de quuijo, these are little bread rolls with cheese made from cassava flour from the manioc and cows milk cheese, I liken them to little cheese pillows.  They are served warm and are nice and chewy.

Caipirinha's, Brazilian Beer, Churrascia, Feijoada, A Mineira, Frango a Passarinho, pao de queijo.....Try them all on your visit to Rio de Janeiro, Brazil and inhale and digest the soul of nation.  You're sure to bring back a story or two from the experience.



Saude! To your health in Portuguese!

"Remember, the world is a book and those who do not travel, read only a page"

 

Ja'Vonne, The Wanderlusting Foodie, aka, Chica (A name I gave myself in Rio)

Co-Host, The Traveling Eye
Co-Owner, Advantage International, LLC
Photos by Howard Little/VideoTwist Productions

I Believe I can Fly.......

I believe I can touch the sky.  I think about it every night and day. Spread my wings and fly away....OK, you get my drift.  I went hang gliding with Go Up Brazil, a company that provides hang gliding and paragliding adventures in Rio de Janeiro.  I anticipated this adventure from the moment I left Chicago.  I thought about it each day and got more and more excited.


When the car came for us at the hotel to take us to the site we were ready.  In the car I was singing.  I guess badly because the driver turned on the radio.  Was this a hint? Gene, Bonnie and Howard all tried to ignore me but it was OK because I was giddy with excitement.

Gene getting ready

Howard, Chico Santos, Ja'Vonne & Gene

Gene is always my partner in crime and goes along with my adventures and a few of his own.  Bonnie said from the beginning "y'all have fun" and Howard, well he was talked into it or should I say coaxed into it.  I think he really wanted to back out but machismo got in the way.

By the time we made it to the top of the mountain to a place called Pueblo Bonito, I was beside myself.  I was like a jumping bean.  When my pilot introduced himself to me I hugged him.  He didn't seem surprised by this? He spoke fast and as he instructed me he always finished with OK?  He and his son hooked me up to the glider and put my helmet, then the instructions began.  You stand to the side of me OK?  Always to the side of me, never behind me OK? When we ready to go, together we run, maybe ten steps OK? OK, let's do it for practice.  Together we ran about ten feet at a fast pace.  It's hard to run when you're connected to the glider.  That was the extent of my training but since he said he's been flying for more than 20 years I'm OK!

Now, we're ready....We walk over to the platform that angles down and then drops off.  There's a person in front of me so I have time to gather my thoughts.  Wait, why is he walking me down towards the end of the platform in front of the other person? It's my turn? I'm going first?  Before I had time to think he says OK, we go RUN! Off the platform and mountain we go.  I'm flying or shall I say gliding.  I immediately forget that I just jumped off of a mountain 1600 feet above ground.

I'm gliding high above Rio de Janeiro.  In front of me is the ocean and beach.  To my right is the side of the mountain.  Off in the distance to my left is part of Ipanema beach.  Below me are fabulous homes along the mountain with swimming pools, tennis courts and sprawling scapes.  We go left, then right, then over the ocean.  We're gliding and I'm taking it all in.  Occasionally he says look at the camera and smile.  Then he says you can let go...spread your arms wide.  This is a freeing experience.  I don't want it to be over, but it's time to land.  He reaches down and unhooks my legs from my vest.  Now, my legs are dangling where before they were behind me.  We go over the ocean and make a quick u- turn back to the beach.  This maneuver speeds us up and is thrilling!  I actually want to make that maneuver again.  As we approach the make shift runway on the beach (Pepino Beach) he says...When I stop the glider you take three steps OK?  I say OK, but I wind up on my knees.  I forgot to run. LOL.  It's all over but I'm still smiling. What an adventure!  One more thing checked off my life list.



Ja'Vonne Harley, The Wanderlusting Foodie aka Chica

Co-Host, The Traveling Eye