Ireland is even more awe-inspiring in person. Recently, I traveled throughout the country's southern part — the Republic of Ireland. Verdant pastures, historic estates, and grazing livestock provided picture-postcard scenery around every corner. Gazing at the Cliffs of Moher will leave you awestruck. The bluffs tower 702-feet over Clare coast and stretch five miles. They've been featured in movies including Harry Potter and The Princess Bride. It's only one of the natural beauties along the 1,500 mile Wild Atlantic Way on Ireland's west coast. Castles dating back hundreds of years dot the landscape. Blarney Castle in Cork County was constructed in 1446! Climbing the stone stairs to kiss the famous Blarney Stone, you imagine those who lived in the castle during the middle ages. The surrounding, award winning 60 acres of gardens add to the spectacle. Ashford Castle in Cong was built 800-years ago by the Anglo-Norman de Burgo family. After numerous iterations, including home of the Guinness family, it became the five-star luxury hotel it is today. The owners painstakingly restored it back to the original grandeur while incorporating modern day amenities. A one night stay in this majestic manor is highly recommended. Ireland and sheep go hand-in-hand. If census numbers are correct, there are over five million sheep on the Emerald Isle! The fluffy bovidae are ubiquitous and add charm to the roadside meadows. Another quintessential animal throughout the country are Irish Wolfhound dogs. They were bred in Ireland to hunt wolfs, hence the name. Their substantial size is menacing. But, when I participated in an organized walk with four wolfhounds, I found them to be docile and sweet with people. The following photos are a snippet of the charm that makes Ireland a destination to put on your bucket list. Here are 10 photos to inspire you
Ireland is even more awe-inspiring in person. Recently, I traveled throughout the country’s southern part — the Republic of Ireland. Verdant pastures, historic estates, and grazing livestock provided picture-postcard scenery around every corner. Gazing at the Cliffs of Moher will leave you awestruck. The bluffs tower 702-feet over Clare coast and stretch five miles. They’ve
Irish brown soda bread is served in homes and restaurants throughout Ireland. Its rustic, nutty flavor are the perfect addition to a meal. This bread is savory, not sweet. Traditionally served warm with salted butter alongside hearty stews, citrus jellies on top are another favorite spread for breakfast with a pot of tea. Most families have their own Irish brown soda bread recipe passed down through the generations. It's an integral part of daily life. Baking techniques vary. Northern Ireland regions divide the dough into quarters and cook the sections on a griddle. The south's Republic of Ireland bakes loaves in a round pan and cuts a cross on top of the dough prior to placing it in the oven. Modern versions of the staple include raisins, seeds, honey, even Guinness. But the classic Irish brown soda bread sticks to the basics such as the following recipe. Enjoy! Ingredients: ● 2 cups whole wheat flour ● 1 cup bran flour ● 1/4 cup wheat germ (the center of the wheat kernel) ● 1 cup All-purpose flour ● 2 tsp. sugar ● 1 tsp. salt ● 1 1/2 tsp. baking soda ● 1 1/2 tsp. baking powder ● 2 cups buttermilk Recipe & Preparation: 1) Preheat oven to 375 degrees. 2) Combine the whole wheat flour, bran flour, and wheat germ. 3) Add the all-purpose flour, sugar, salt, baking soda, and baking powder. Stir all the ingredients together. 4) Pour in the buttermilk. Mix together with a spoon until the buttermilk is worked in and the flour has absorbed all the liquid. It will have a craggy texture. 5) Put the dough on a board. Not all cutting boards are created equal. Bamboo boards are durable, lightweight and most don't have added dyes or stains. Here is a good quality board: https://amzn.to/3yJqw7z
Irish brown soda bread is served in homes and restaurants throughout Ireland. Its rustic, nutty flavor are the perfect addition to a meal. This bread is savory, not sweet. Traditionally served warm with salted butter alongside hearty stews, citrus jellies on top are another favorite spread for breakfast with a pot of tea. Most families
Irish stew is native to Ireland and considered their national dish. There are numerous variations of the stew. Many households use beef for the protein, as well as potatoes, leeks, or cabbage. But, traditional Irish stew is made with lamb and root vegetables. In the Irish language the stew is called stobhach gaelach. Once a necessity during the early 19th century's economic turmoil, the attainable ingredients allowed impoverished families to survive on the stew. Today it's thought of as a comfort food. With its hearty fixin's, Irish stew is the perfect dish to cook during chilly months. Here is the recipe. Enjoy! Ingredients: ● 3 Tablespoons vegetable oil ● 4 1/2 pounds of lamb shoulder chops, 1” - 1 1/2” thick ● Salt + pepper ● 3 large onions, chopped ● 4 Tablespoons All-purpose flour ● 3 cups water ● 1 teaspoon dried thyme ● 1/2 pound carrots, peeled and sliced into 1/4” pieces ● 1 purple top turnip, peeled, stem end cut off. Cut turnip into 1” cubes ● 1/4 cup fresh minced parsley Recipe & Preparation: 1) In a Dutch oven put 1 Tbsp. vegetable oil. Turn to medium-high heat. Keep an eye on it. If you don't have a Dutch oven, it is worthwhile to purchase one. I love mine and use it a lot for cooking soups, sauces, stews, browning chicken, etc. Here is a good one you'll use for many years: https://amzn.to/4083Ycc 2) Cut lamb shoulder chops into 1 1/2” chunks. Season the meat with salt and pepper. 3) Cook the lamb in the Dutch oven in 2 batches. Cook the first side of meat about 2 minutes, until it begins to brown. Turn the pieces over and cook for about another 5 minutes. 4) After the lamb pieces are cooked, take them out and put
Irish stew is native to Ireland and considered their national dish. There are numerous variations of the stew. Many households use beef for the protein, as well as potatoes, leeks, or cabbage. But, traditional Irish stew is made with lamb and root vegetables. In the Irish language the stew is called stobhach gaelach. Once a
Walking Boston’s iconic Freedom Trail is a must when visiting this city. The 2 1/2 mile path winds throughout downtown, passing 16 locations significant in United States history. The Freedom Trail is marked with a painted brick red line indicating where to walk. You can pick up a map at the visitor’s center for a self-guided tour. For a more immersive experience, book a guided tour. They run approximately 2 hrs and 30 minutes. You can purchase tickets here: Tickets The guides are incredibly knowledgable and provide insight into the historic events that took place along the Freedom Trail. My friend Rachel and I toured the famous route. Certain locations offer a pinch me moment when realizing you’re standing in a spot that shaped American history. Here are 5 highlights when walking Boston’s Freedom Trail! Paul Revere's House It’s here the American patriot began his midnight ride on April 18, 1775 shouting “the British are coming.” Revere owned the home for 30 years. His family of 16 children - eight with his first wife Sarah, who passed away, and eight with his second wife, Rachel, lived in the modest home. The house is open daily for self-guided tours. Illustrated text panels are throughout, as well as staff to answer questions. The “Best Chamber” (master bedroom) was also used as a parlor. It was customary in those days to utilize rooms for many functions. The Hall served as a dining room, workshop and business office. Other rooms on display illustrate how the Revere family lived. Granary Burying Ground Dating back to 1660, the historic burying ground along the Freedom Trail has 2,345 grave markers. Notable men including three signers of the Declaration of Independence —Samual Adams, John Hancock, and Robert Treat Paine — are laid to rest here. A 25-foot obelisk
Walking Boston’s iconic Freedom Trail is a must when visiting this city. The 2 1/2 mile path winds throughout downtown, passing 16 locations significant in United States history. The Freedom Trail is marked with a painted brick red line indicating where to walk. You can pick up a map at the visitor’s center for a
Many Americans are still apprehensive about traveling abroad — the new COVID BA.5 variant has vacationers staying closer to home. But, with our Canadian neighbors to the north, there’s no need to forgo an international getaway. The land of maple syrup provides the flavor and feel of a trip to Europe, close to home. Last May I visited Toronto. Prior to arrival I was required to complete an ArriveCAN form online. The Canadian government uses this as a way to streamline entry into the country. All tourists entering via air, car/bus or sea must fill out ArriveCAN information within 72 hours before arriving. The website or app gathers your travel and health information. The app can be found in the App Store or Google Play. Here is how to navigate the ArriveCAN app when traveling to Canada. ArriveCAN for Incoming Travelers It’s easiest to download the app onto a smartphone rather than accessing the website each time information is added. When the app is downloaded on your phone, create an account with an email and password. Once signed on, proceed with the application. Click “trip details.” You’ll be asked “what best describes you or your primary reason for entering Canada?” Check the “discretionary/optional” choice. This indicates a visit for leisure and tourism. “How are you entering Canada?” is the next question. There are three choices — air, car/bus, or sea. The following information appears depending on which mode of transportation is selected. Air: COVID testing outlines and requirements: Fully vaccinated travelers may be randomly selected for testing upon arrival at a Canadian airport. Non-Canadian citizens age 12 or older who want to enter Canada must be vaccinated with at least two vaccines or one J&J. Booster shots are not necessary. Car/Bus: Travelers list the port of entry and
Many Americans are still apprehensive about traveling abroad — the new COVID BA.5 variant has vacationers staying closer to home. But, with our Canadian neighbors to the north, there’s no need to forgo an international getaway. The land of maple syrup provides the flavor and feel of a trip to Europe, close to home. Last
During COVID-19 when families around the globe are isolated, meals provide needed solace. Gathering for dinner is the great equalizer, and shows how similar we all are. Preparing food together draws us closer. This is a time to collectively cook global recipes which transcend borders and unify humanity. While traveling isn't possible now, experimenting with new global recipes is. Here's one of the global recipes to cook while in quarantine! White Chicken Enchiladas This oh so decadent enchilada recipe is popular with my husband’s Mexican family. It's exactly what is needed in times like these! 2 Tbs. Butter 2 onions, large & sliced thin 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded or diced 6 oz. cream cheese, diced 2 cups Jack cheese, shredded 1/2 cup pimentos, chopped 2/3 cup whipping cream 12 corn tortillas 2 cups corn oil Salt and pepper Preheat oven to 375 degrees. In a large pan, cook onions in butter until soft (about 15 minutes). Remove from heat. Add chicken, pimento, and cream cheese. Mix with a fork. Season with salt and pepper. Heat corn oil in a skillet. Dip each corn tortilla in hot oil until it begins to blister and become limp. Take out of oil and place on plate with paper towels to drain. Repeat with all 12 tortillas. When tortillas are cool to the touch, spoon a 1/3 cup of chicken mixture onto a tortilla and roll. Set it seam side down in a 9” x 13” baking dish. Repeat with all 12 tortillas. After filling, rolling and placing all tortillas in the baking dish, spoon whipping cream over the enchiladas. Then sprinkle with the Jack cheese. Bake uncovered for 20 minutes. Serves six.
During COVID-19 when families around the globe are isolated, meals provide needed solace. Gathering for dinner is the great equalizer, and shows how similar we all are. Preparing food together draws us closer. This is a time to collectively cook global recipes which transcend borders and unify humanity. While traveling isn’t possible now, experimenting with new
Montreal is a city famous for its food. Boasting a culinary scene that’s at the forefront of innovation, it’s just one of the many reasons this cosmopolitan city is high on any traveller’s wish list. Foodie’s come from far and wide to experience the city's tried-and-tested favorites, classics with a twist and unusual flavor combinations. But, with curfews in place due to the ongoing Covid-19 pandemic, in-dining experiences are limited. Many restaurants now offer their unique fares in the comfort of your own home. Takeout options have exploded. Here are just a few of our favorites. LOV on McGill Street Offering up elevated vegan and vegetarian plates, this stylish restaurant is popular with meat-eaters and vegans alike. Voted number 11 of 72 contemporary restaurants in Montreal, the whitewashed walls and intimate seating options make it a favorite with locals and tourists. Now available for takeout and delivery through Uber Eats, you don’t have to live without their mouth-watering plant-based deliciousness. However, it’s well worth returning to the Montreal restaurant when protocol allows. You'll experience the welcoming atmosphere that's mentioned in almost all of its 2,120 reviews. It’s even better if you can snag one of the hanging wicker chairs to enjoy it from! Boris Bistro on McGill Street With minors not allowed, this Montreal restaurant serving eclectic French fare is the perfect place to enjoy a grown-up night out. Complete with a buzzing and spacious terrace, Boris Bistro is a popular location come the summer months. Its vast selection of wines are now available to order at Boris Bistro for takeout. Those with gluten intolerance will be happy to know this Montreal restaurant is certified gluten-free! Maison Christian Faure on Place Royale Voted the number three bakery in Montreal, Maison Christian Faure should be a mandatory stop for anyone with a
Montreal is a city famous for its food. Boasting a culinary scene that’s at the forefront of innovation, it’s just one of the many reasons this cosmopolitan city is high on any traveller’s wish list. Foodie’s come from far and wide to experience the city’s tried-and-tested favorites, classics with a twist and unusual flavor combinations.
Irish food is underrated. Most think of fish and chips, potatoes or hardy soda bread when the Emerald Isle’s cuisine comes to mind. While those are delicious, Éire is also a county of fresh seafood, farm to table fare, and artisan sweets. While I explored Ireland, I sampled some of their best regional eats and they were delicious! Here are 5 local foods to try in Ireland! Tayto Original Irish Crisp Potato chips are called crisps in Ireland. Tayto is THE brand and has been a staple in pantries across the country since 1954. The original flavor is cheese and onion. They don’t produce a plain version. Other choices include prawn cocktail and smokey bacon, with limited editions of roasted chicken and pickled onion, to name a few. Being a self professed potato chip junkie, I’ve tasted different kinds of the savory snack around the world. Tayto is definitely one of the best. They’re light and have the right amount of salt. If you can’t wait until you visit Ireland to try the popular snack, they’re available to order here: https://amzn.to/3k8Aw6s. Quinland's Portmagee Crab Claws I still dream of these sizzling crustaceans tossed in garlic butter and served with crunchy sourdough bread. They’re fished in County Kerry’s village of Portmagee off the southwest coast of Ireland. Their motto is “from tide to table.” Papa Quinland started the business 60 years ago. His sons now run the show. They are maintaining the same freshness and sustainability. There are six Quinland Seafood Bars in the Republic of Ireland. They serve whatever has been caught; squid, salmon, prawns, hake. But I highly recommend the crab claws. Murphy's Brown Bread Ice Cream The most common bread in Ireland paired with cream from Kerry cows culminates in this super yummy ice cream.
Irish food is underrated. Most think of fish and chips, potatoes or hardy soda bread when the Emerald Isle’s cuisine comes to mind. While those are delicious, Éire is also a county of fresh seafood, farm to table fare, and artisan sweets. While I explored Ireland, I sampled some of their best regional eats and
Just in time for summer, the San Diego Zoo opened its new Wildlife Explorers Basecamp. Built on the site of the former Children’s Zoo, this three acre interactive exhibit is designed to educate guests of all ages on wildlife conservation. It especially caters to kids, showing them the role they play in creating a world where all life thrives. Wildlife Explorers Basecamp is divided into four zones — Rainforest, Wild Woods, Marsh Meadows, and Desert Dunes. Eight buildings and habitats dispersed throughout the zones feature wildlife that live in these ecosystems. Each has unique offerings including water play, a tree house, touch-screen games, and artificial intelligence (AI) to name a few. Here’s what to expect on your visit to Wildlife Explorers Basecamp! Rainforest A 10,000 square-foot building dubbed “Spineless Marvels” houses the fascinating world of invertebrates. Inside, a huge, floor-to-ceiling fiberglass honeycomb signals visitors they’re entering the bee exhibit. Along the wall, glass panes allow a peek into a real-life working beehive. While most of us know one or two bee species, there are in fact over 4,000 different kinds! Spiders, scorpions, leafcutter ants, jungle nymphs, grasshoppers and other insects live here, too. Curators took graphics to the next level with colorful, cartoon murals depicting the role these creatures play in nature. The pièce-de-résistance is on the dome ceiling where an animated meadow is projected with hundreds of fluttering Monarch butterflies and dragonflies. Wild Woods A 20-foot tree stands in the middle of this playground area. Children can run with abandon across a suspension bridge and through a tunnel made of rope, mimicking the nearby squirrel monkeys who swing on ropes and romp in their enclosure. On hot days, the splash-pad complete with waterfall, meandering stream, and water jets offer a respite from the heat. Marsh Meadows The aptly named
Just in time for summer, the San Diego Zoo opened its new Wildlife Explorers Basecamp. Built on the site of the former Children’s Zoo, this three acre interactive exhibit is designed to educate guests of all ages on wildlife conservation. It especially caters to kids, showing them the role they play in creating a world
The Lunar New Year is Sunday, January 22nd. The holiday is determined by a traditional Chinese calendar, which is based on the moon’s cycle and the Earth’s course around the sun. It falls on the second new moon after winter solstice. Each Lunar New Year is associated with an animal; 2023 is the year of the rabbit. Just as we do in America, people in China, Korea, Vietnam, Singapore and other countries celebrate their new year with favorite foods. Most importantly, many dishes are thought to bring good fortune, prosperity, and health in the year ahead. Over the years, I’ve hosted dozens of foreign exchange students from the Orient. Each taught me techniques for preparing foods from their homeland. I’m astonished how a few ingredients mingled in a pan result in such flavorful dishes. While the following recipes will adorn new year’s tables, they can be eaten year round. So grab your wok and let’s get cooking! Here are five, simple Lunar New Year recipes! Stir-Fried Lettuce Lettuce is a popular vegetable for Chinese New Year. The Cantonese word for lettuce sounds like “rising fortune.” For this reason it’s a must have at holiday feasts. Ingredients: 1 head iceberg lettuce 2 teaspoons soy sauce 2 tablespoons oyster sauce 1/4 teaspoon sesame oil 1/2 teaspoon salt 1/4 teaspoon sugar ground pepper to taste 2 tablespoons vegetable oil 1 slice ginger (1/8” thick, smashed with the side of a knife) 1 clove of garlic (chopped) Recipe & preparation: Take the lettuce and firmly hit it on the counter, core side down. Turn over and remove the loosened core. Remove the outer layer and any discolored leaves of the lettuce. Discard. Tear the lettuce with your hands into large 4”- 5” pieces. Place the lettuce in a large bowl of very
The Lunar New Year is Sunday, January 22nd. The holiday is determined by a traditional Chinese calendar, which is based on the moon’s cycle and the Earth’s course around the sun. It falls on the second new moon after winter solstice. Each Lunar New Year is associated with an animal; 2023 is the year of
