Weekend in Wimberley

Looking for a quick getaway with a nod to yesterday? Chill out in Wimberley.  By Laurette M. Veres

Chill Out

A little off the beaten path, you drive on dirt roads, over one-lane bridges and dodge armadillos, possums and deer. What a great get-away.

It was a little stressful finding our cabin.  After navigating winding dirt roads with numerous switchbacks and deer sightings, we found our cabin and headed to dinner.  It took me a while to wind down. Just off the main drag, Ino’z Brew and Chew’s picturesque setting is the perfect location to enjoy a hill country sunset.  The open-air deck looks down on the Blanco River.  At first glance, I think the tables are too close to each other, promoting socializing and I’m not here to chat; I’m here to get away. As the final rays of the sun peak through the Cypress trees, I realize everyone here knows each other.  Before long, this Houstonian finally starts to wind down.  The tuna-stuffed-tomato is just the right size for a light lunch or dinner.  Soon, we converse with the family at the next table.  And the table next to them.  Along the river, there is a ceremony.  Is it a wedding?  No, women have joined together to thank God for the rain.  Yes, people in Wimberley have time to say thank you for rain.

Wake Up and Shop

Get lost in San Marcos’ Premium Outlets.  Most major brands have outposts here.  We visit a few, just to make sure the prices are lower. All this shopping makes us hungry.

The line at Centerpoint Station is long and for good reason.  Half of this establishment is an Americana memorabilia store with fun brands like Brighton and Vera Bradley. The other half is a counter service casual eatery. The fresh salad is brimming with bacon, pecans, strawberries and feta cheese.  It’s the buttery bread that makes the burger so flavorful and has earned the accolade “best burger in Hays County.”

Great Grapes

In the heart of the hill country, Trattoria Lisina is an unexpected, rustic Italian oasis.  Reminiscent of an Italian Villa, this is the closest you’ll come to Tuscany in Texas.  Enjoy wine in the tasting room, or try to snag a seat in the sold out dining room.  Enjoy Veal or chicken marsala, prime rib, asparagus and gelato or tiramisu.

Moreover, enjoy the slower pace of life. Where diners aren’t anxious to get their checks and always make time for desert.

Essentials:

Ino’z Brew & Chew, 14004 Ranch Rd 12, Wimberley, 512-847-6060

Centerpoint Station, S IH 35, San Marcos, 512-392-1103

Trattoria Lisina 13308 FM 150 West
Driftwood, 512- 894-3111

 

 

Spa Montage Deer Valley – Sundance Festival Starts Today

FOCUS ON BREATH: Park City, UT

Spa Montage Deer Valley

www.spamontage.com

435-604-1300

SpaMontage Deer Valley welcomes athletic visitors to the 35,000-square-foot, holistic-minded retreat. Each service begins and ends with a focus on breathing, aptly called the art of breath. Although there is a spa menu, the highly accredited spa therapists are trained to interpret your body’s personalized language. According to Loren Kornreich, spa director, the goal is to completely customize offerings to the point where there will be no menu. The wet area is where the ritual begins. For heat, you can choose between a trip to the steam room or sauna, and then follow with a cold shower before entering the Jacuzzi. Repeat this series three times for deeper relaxation.

What’s Hot Now?

Thai massage Through a series of assisted stretches, your body is pushed to limits you might not reach on your own. This is done on a floor mat, or an abbreviated version is offered on a massage table.

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Ten Thousand Waves

Leading the world in wellness treatments and relaxation, Ten Thousand Waves is four miles north of Santa Fe on the western slopes of the Sangre de Cristo Mountains. This rugged, Southwestern spa features top-notch, Japanese-style treatments along with hot, mineral water baths.  “We always recommend a tub,” says Mary Johnson, public relations manager who has been helping visitors relax for more than 25 years. “It helps you relax and warms the muscles, preparing you for any treatment.” This is the first step in the cleansing process. Private and group baths are available.  All of the treatments here are customized to individual needs. The following facial can be customized and you can add the foot massage to any standard massage.

What’s Hot Now?

Japanese Facial This treatment includes cleansing products, masks and exfoliations. The differentiator is the amount of massage done to the face. Each lotion is massaged into the skin to increase the rate of absorption. Techniques include light stroking, kneading and percussive movements. “It’s like someone is dancing tango on your face,” says Johnson. Further regenerate your cells with a CryoStem Cell Treatment in which a serum is frozen until applied to your skin to stimulate collagen production.

Ashi Anma Foot Massage Imagine 25 minutes focused on your feet. This new treatment is crafted after the finger-pressure massage readily available in Japan and helps move energy through the body. Your feet will tingle long after the treatment is over.

www.tenthousandwaves.com

505-982-9304

30A Songwriters Festival

 The Bangles, Indigo Girls, Rodney Crowell, Fastball, Matthew Sweet, and Sam Bush to co-headline the three-day event along Florida’s Gulf Coast in South Walton

The 30A Songwriters Festival announces headline acts for the January 13-15, 2012 event including Indigo Girls, Rodney Crowell, The Bangles, Shawn Mullins, Sam Bush Band and Matthew Sweet.  Theses acclaimed songwriters will join more than 120 talented artists from across the country to share intimate moments with friends and fans along Florida’s Scenic Highway 30A in South Walton along  Northwest Florida’s Gulf Coast.

The three-day music festival will feature more than 125 musicians and over 250 performances in venues ranging from intimate listening rooms to spacious outdoor amphitheaters amid a backdrop of brilliant white sand beaches, turquoise waters and stunning architecture.

Susanna Hoffs of The Bangles described the 2011 event as “a series of magical moments unfolding over the course of the long weekend – old friends reuniting, new friendships being born…Large audiences and performers enjoying days and nights of music, storytelling both poignant and humorous, spontaneous jams, Southern hospitality, delicious food and wine.”

The third annual festival, produced by the Cultural Arts Alliance of Walton County (CAA), presented by Visit South Walton and sponsored by Seaside and 30A.com, has quickly grown into one of the premier songwriters festivals in the country.  Representing diverse styles ranging from folk and country to rock and alternative, the 2012 line-up features nationally-acclaimed songwriters and musicians including The Bangles, , Shawn Mullins, Matthew Sweet, Indigo Girls and Fastball as well as David Wilcox, Steve Forbert, Mary Gauthier, Sam Bush, Randall Bramblett, Tommy Talton, Jeffrey Steele, Chely Wright, Chuck Cannon, Corey Smith, David Olney, Davin McCoy, Lori McKenna, Tommy Womack, Kevn Kinney, The Shadowboxers, Larkin Poe, Emily Lynch, Joseph Arthur, Matthew Mayfield, Rachel Platten, Callaghan, David Berkeley,  Garrison Starr, Jeff Black, Joe Leathers, Ben Glover, Billy Montana, Chas Sanford, Brian and Karyn White, Greg Barnhill, Forrest Williams Band, Kyle Jacobs, Kelsey Anna, Reed Waddle, Meg Huthchinson, Brigitte Demeyer, Daphne Willis, Shannon Whitworth, Suzi Ragsdale, Georgia, Ashleigh Flynn, Joanna Cotten, Bryan Kennedy, Matthew Kahler and over 75 more.

“What sets the 30A Songwriters Festival apart from others in the country is, one: we create listening rooms in truly unique beach resort venues and two: we book musically diverse artists,” said Russell Carter, event organizer and chair and president of Russell Carter Artist Management. “Rodney Crowell and the Bangles have both scored numerous number one hits, but I am willing to say that only at the 30A Songwriters Festival are you able to hear Rodney sing  ‘It’s Such a Small World‘ and  ‘I Couldn’t Leave You If I Tried,’ and then run across the street and hear the Bangles belt out ‘Eternal Flame,’ ‘Walk Like an Egyptian’ and ‘Manic Monday.’ Rodney will perform with a full band as will the Indigo Girls and Sam Bush. Matthew Sweet will perform “Girlfriend” in its entirety to celebrate the 20^th anniversary of the release of the platinum certified album. Audiences who truly enjoy music will not want to miss this event.”

Scenic Highway 30A in South Walton meanders along the Gulf of Mexico through charming beach neighborhoods, including Santa Rosa Beach, Grayton Beach, WaterColor, Seaside, Rosemary Beach, Alys Beach as well as state parks and more than a dozen rare coastal dune lakes.

“The relaxed, laid back vibe of the beachside resorts along scenic Highway 30A creates the perfect atmosphere for this world-class event,” said Jennifer Steele, event organizer and executive director of the CAA. “South Walton already celebrates a thriving arts community, which includes a vibrant music scene and an abundance of talented musicians. We are delighted to bring such high-caliber songwriters, performers and up-and-coming artists from around the country to 30A to play for music savvy audiences.”

Proceeds from the 30A Songwriters Festival benefit the CAA.  Early bird ticket pricing of $100 for a three-day pass is still available for a limited time. For more information on the 2012 festival, including a full list of artists, venues, accommodations packages and how to purchase tickets, visit 30asongwritersfestival.com. To learn more about South Walton and Scenic Highway 30A, log on to visitsouthwalton.com, 30a.com or sowal.com.

 

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FOCUS ON WELLNESS: Santa Fe, NM

BODY, Santa Fe

An emphasis on healing and wellness has always attracted people to Santa Fe, New Mexico. Trend-setting BODY is a destination for well-being and health, offering massage, classes and an organic café and boutique. Massages are customized to individual needs by the healers who deliver them.

What’s Hot Now?

Eat Raw If you have been afraid to jump on the raw food train, BODY’s organic café is the perfect place to tempt your palate. The menu pushes the envelope with tantalizing vegan, raw and organic options. Don’t miss the raw enchilada; it is surprisingly enchilada-like. A tortilla is created from a dehydrated puree of veggies. Amazingly spicy, the red chile sauce will trick your taste buds into thinking they are in the Mexican Riviera.

Nia Short for “neuro-muscular integrative action,” is a mixture of martial arts, yoga and dance. Sessions begin with deep-breathing exercises set to soft music. Movements are slow and steady. As the music gradually speeds up, so do the ballroom dance-type steps (heel-toe-slide-dip). “Sometimes you vocalize,” says Spa Services Manager Lynse Rubin. During a Tae kwondo-style kick, you might be asked to emit a “huh!” or shout “yes” while throwing your arms skyward. “It’s touchy-feely and playful,” comments Rubin, who adds that this is their most popular new class.

BODY; www.bodyofsantafe.com  505-986-0362

 

CELEBRATE MILESTONES: St. Thomas, USVI

@RitzCarlton

The Ritz Carlton St. Thomas

www.ritzcarlton.com

340-775-3333ext 8606

St. Thomas is an American territory offering stress free travel to the Caribbean. A hop, skip and a jump across this small Island lands you in the lap of luxury: The Ritz Carlton, St. Thomas. Not your grandfather’s Ritz, you don’t need a tie as you enjoy the glorious grounds, infinity pool, world-class spa and superb accommodations.

What’s Hot Now?

Babymoon Always ahead of the curve, The Ritz-Carlton, St. Thomas is focusing on an underserved target market, expecting parents. The Resort Reconnect^® package for moms-and dads-to-be is designed to give them some alone time before the baby arrives. This exclusive offer includes overnight accommodations, breakfast, spa credits and a menu of spa experiences tailored specifically for mothers-to-be. She’ll love the Mellow Mamma and Yummy Tummy treatments.

Anniversary Celebration December marked the resort’s 15^th anniversary and you can enjoy the commemorative Crystal Anniversary Celebration package. “We are delighted to share this significant milestone with our guests. The Crystal Anniversary Celebration package captures the very essence of the resort with an experiential vacation that exudes the magic of the islands,” says Marc Langevin, general manager of The Ritz-Carlton, St.Thomas. Enjoy the Presidential Suite and Seaside Cabana couples massages, and the signature CrystalRain Therapy that revitalizes your skin with organic exfoliating crystals while a seven-head Vichy shower warms your body.

Hotel Monaco, Denver

Mile High Escape
By Laurette M. Veres

Hotel Monaco: A Kimpton Hotel is a quaint boutique hotel located in downtown Denver. The evening H Texas visits, we feel extremely welcome. We receive a bottle of wine at check in, but don’t open it yet. Happy hour is in full swing in the lobby. “Just a welcome for our guests,” we are told. The party includes free chair massages. My photographer challenges me to Wii bowling – right in the lobby. I win. This place is fun.

The rooms are exquisite; colors are cool: brown and orange. An accent blanket in animal print continues the modern feel. The location is even cooler, right in the heart of vibrant and bustling downtown Denver, near the LoDo entertainment district.

 

For dinner, we consult yelp and head over to Osteria Marco. The meats are cured in house and homemade cheese fills the menu. The extensive drink menu features Absinthe (aka The Green Fairy) served in the traditional manner with sugar and ice water.

Brunch on Sunday morning at Panzano is spectacular, and convenient. Panzano is attached to the hotel. We enjoy fresh-baked bread, mimosas, turkey sandwiches and tomato soup. Fresh and rested, we head west on I-70 to enjoy a week of skiing.

Essentials:

Hotel Monaco Denver, 800-990-1303; monaco-denver.com
Osteria Marco, osteriamarco.com

For starters, dogs are welcome here. Before you reach check-in, a chalkboard welcomes the in-house pooches.

Arkansas

Engage 10 The Breakers

H Texas attended the Engage 10 Conference at the Breakers in Florida.

 

Dynamo Girls Calendar

H Texas caught up with the Dynamo Girls at the Hotel Galvez as they were shooting their calendar. Ladies, you are beautiful!

Texas BBQ Central

Mapping Out the Best Barbecue Joints in the Lone Star State

Story & Photos By Janis Turk

Live in Texas for more than five minutes—or just visit some weekend—and before you can say “Howdy,” you’ll find yourself standing in front of an old Texas barbecue joint. Someone will undoubtedly claim this place has the best barbecue in the state, and you’ll wonder if it’s true. Soon you’re standing knee-deep in spare ribs, leaning over slabs of brisket laid out on butcher paper and licking barbecue sauce off your wrists—that is, if you don’t accidentally burn your boots when stepping over a fire pit in the floor.

Chances are the barbecue joint will be an old, third-generation, family-run, small-town kinda place with walls the smeary color of smoke-cured meat. A neon Lone Star beer sign hangs on the wall, old men in baseball caps stand in line, and little green Coca-Cola bottles carry a thin film of ice that slides away as you lift them from a stand-up metal cooler.

Barbecue, and all the quirky small-town places that serve it, is a long-revered Texas tradition as important to the rich cultural mythology of the Lone Star State as cowboys, cattle drives, boots, faded jeans, “Faded Love,” Willie Nelson and The Alamo. Barbecue is a kind of religion for Texans: Places that serve it are like churches with loyal congregations who attend regularly and sometimes feud, split and start their own place down the street.

Barbecue joints that Texans love best are imbued with an elusive Last Picture Show quality that seasons the experience like a black pepper rub on a brisket. (Hollywood couldn’t build sets this unbelievably cool.) A place can have the most tender barbecue, but if folks don’t stand in line for it in an old store-front building with a squeaky screen door, an antiquated water-cooler system hanging from the ceiling, dusty deer-head mounts on the walls and a fire roaring in the floor, it’ll never get on the barbecue map of Texas.

A few popular spots like The Salt Lick (which is not quite old school/cool enough to make the popular Texas Monthly magazine’s “best barbecue” list complied every five years) have become so famous that they get write-ups in The New York Times and land a food court kiosk at the Austin airport. Other hometown hole-in-the-wall spots, like Snow’s in Lexington, have only in recent years been “discovered” by food writers and the rest of the brisket-eating, pickle-chomping, pick-up-driving proletariat.

But let’s just suppose you’ve never been to the Lone Star State and don’t know where to start in your search for great barbecue.

It’s easy. Put your finger in the center of a Texas map and eat your way out from there. Texas is “barbecue central,” and so our list begins at the heart of it all near the capital city of Austin in the south-central part of the state. After that, it’s a short drive to small towns that spoke-off in all directions from there—places like Taylor, Driftwood, Lexington, Luling and Lockhart where city slickers and Texas “kikkers” concur the best barbecue begins.

Lockhart: The Official “Barbecue Capitol of Texas”

Smitty’s Market

(The original Kruez Market building—pronounced Krites)
(512) 398-9344. Open Mon–Fri 7–6, Sat 7–6:30, Sun 9–3.
www.smittysmarket.com
Owners: Nina Schmidt Sells and son John Fullilove (Nina is the daughter of Edgar Schmidt who ran Kruez’ on that spot since 1948).

Smoking meat here since: 1900
(Note: Smitty’s was renamed/re-opened by the late owner’s daughter after she and brother Rick had a feud/split in 1999.)

Atmosphere: The best, bar none. A long room of smoke-stained walls still has little chains nailed to them where butcher knives were once attached “so people wouldn’t walk off with them or get stabbed in a fight,” says Nina. A local post oak fire blazes in the ground, enveloping you in smoke while you stand in line for meat. The parking lot is a sea of chopped wood.

Barbecue: So good that for years the owners refused to serve sauce—didn’t want it interfering with all the rich and subtle flavors of the meat slow cooked over an open post oak fire. Seem extreme? Yeah, but the brisket is that good.

Side dishes: Whole loaves of white bread, raw onions, Saran-wrapped slices of cheddar cheese, pickles and whole avocados—for starters.

Sauce: Zesty and tart (if you ask for it, they’ll serve it—but only under duress).

We love it because like most Texans, we’re loyal: Barbecue has been smoked on this spot for more than a century. A family squabble forced a name-change (Kruez Market—pronounced “Kriets” to “Smitty’s”) when a sibling opened a new barbecue joint under the old name (though they claim to just run their sane business in a new location). Either way, the name changed, but the quality here didn’t. Locals took sides in the split, and many refuse to patronize the new Kruez Market. Some folks still call Smitty’s by its former name only to sigh and say, “I mean, you know, the Old Kreuz’s.” Nice also that it’s open on Sundays.

Downside: Long lines out the back door.

Who eats here: Everybody. James Beard Award-winning celebrity chef John Besh of New Orleans once told me he loves this place.

Best in the state? Arguably.

Kreuz Market

(The “new” Kruez Market location)
(512) 398-2361. Open Mon-Sat 10:30-8. Closed Sun.
www.kreuzmarket.com

Owner: Keith Schmidt, grandson of Edgar Schmidt (former owner of Kruez Market at original location).

Smoking meat here since: 1999, this building; at “Smitty’s” location since 1900.
Atmosphere: Won’t wow you. Big metal building.

Barbecue: Better than I’m willing to admit. Try the zingy jalapeño cheese sausage.

Side dishes: Beans, sauerkraut and more.

Sauce: None. Ever. Won’t have it.

Downside: They barbecue their meat faster than most (in 4 hours). No BBQ sauce—bummer. Closed Sundays—bummer.

Who you’ll see there: Austinites and those who side with the son in the family feud.

We love it because: They carried burning coals in a steal tub from their original location so they can say they cook over the same coal fire their Granddad did.

Best in the state? Some say so, but not me.

Driftwood (South of Austin)

The Salt Lick Bar-B-Que

(512) 858-4959. Open daily, 11-10. BYOB.
www.saltlickbbq.com

Owners: The Roberts Family

Smoking meat here since: 1967

Atmosphere: Laid back and “keep Austin weird” friendly. Set in the country outside town.

Barbecue: Big portions served family style—the smoked turkey and chicken are always a hit.

Side dishes: Big rings of sausage and generous sides of potato salad.

Who eats there: Celebs like Sandra Bullock and Matthew McConaughey, who are sometimes spotted here, and Austinites who don’t think anything of the 20-minute drive to Driftwood consider it an “Austin tradition,” even though it’s not actually in Austin.

Sauce: Zesty and sweet; mustard based.
We love it because: We can sit outside in the shade of enormous oak trees and bring our own beer and wine—even a giant ice chest full. Live music under the stars—how very Austin of them.

Downside: Long hot summer waits, though you can sit at picnic tables outside.

Best in the state? No, but it ain’t bad.

Luling

City Market

(830) 875-9019. Open Mon–Sat 7–6. Closed Sun.

Owner: Joe Capello, Sr.

Atmosphere: Small-town Texas, slice of Americana.

Barbecue: Tender, marbled but not too fatty.

Side dishes: Potato salad, beans, cheese, pickles, white bread, Big Red and root beer in bottles.

Sauce: Zesty and sweet—spices float to the top—my favorite. For years, I’d pick up sauce from here and then drive 15 miles farther to Smitty’s because my favorite BBQ place didn’t serve sauce. Lucky for me, City Market sells the sauce by the cup, pint, and even the gallon in Styrofoam containers.

We love it because: Luling is home of the “Watermelon Thump” festival.

Who eats here: Locals, farmers and everyday folks from San Antonio, Austin, Houston and beyond.

Downside: Long lines, busy at lunchtime; closed Sundays.

Best in the state? Pretty darn close to it.

Taylor

Louie Mueller Barbecue

(512) 352-6206. Open Mon–Sat 10–7:30 or sold out. Closed Sun.
www.louiemuellerbarbecue.com
Owners: Wayne Mueller (third-generation owner) and Trish Mueller
Smoking meats here since: 1959 (this location); 1949 (original location nearby)

Atmosphere: Old-school cool.

Barbecue: Features heavily seasoned brisket caked a powerful cracked pepper rub. Try the 100 percent beef jalapeño sausage in its pork casing for a Texas-sized kick.
Side dishes: Baked potatoes, potato salad, Cole slaw, beans and homemade peach cobbler.

Sauce: Forget it. Even loyal fans of this place say “Don’t order it.”

We love it because: They keep Texas’ own Shiner Beer on tap.

Who goes there: Locals and Austinites who don’t mind driving an hour to Taylor.

Downside: Not-so-hot barbecue sauce.

Best in the state? Usually makes all the “top 10” lists.

Lexington

Snow’s BBQ

(979)542-8189 (for preordering on weekdays), (979) 773-4640 (on Saturdays). Open Sat 8-noon-ish. Closed Sun-Fri.
www.snowsbbq.com
Owner: Kerry Bexley

Smoking meats here since: 2003

Atmosphere: Fantastic. Sit outside by the pits.

Barbecue: So good they sometimes sell out in just a few hours. Tender, perfectly marbled, moist. Wow. Get it to go.

Side dishes: The usual.

Who eats here: Far too many people.

Downside: Only open on Saturdays. People start lining up around 7 a.m.—and they can sell out as early as 10 a.m. Since 2008, when Texas Monthly named it the best barbecue in Texas, Snow’s works to keep up with demand.

Sauce: Pretty standard, but they do ship it across the U.S.

We love it because: Sweet ol’ “Miss Tootsie” Tomanetz (who turned 76 on the day of this writing) has worked as a barbecue pit master for 45 years and is there every day.

Who goes there: Morning people. Don’t go late if you want to eat.

Best in the state? Probably.

Honorable Mention

Gozales

Belmont Social Club

(830)424-3026

Big, barn-like family place with live music and good eats in a real ghost town.

Lockhart

Black’s Barbecue

(888) 632-8225 toll free.
www.blacksbbq.com

Their slogan? Great barbecue “8 Days A Week.” Open since 1932. Claim to be Texas’ oldest restaurant continuously owned by same family.

Austin

Stubb’s Bar-B-Que

(512) 480-8341
www.stubbsbbq.com

Legendary for cold beer, good barbecue, great sauce (they bottle it) live music, and a lively Gospel Brunch. Backyard holds thousands as a concert venue where legends like Willie Nelson and Stevie Ray Vaughn have played.

Texans Enjoy a Love Affair With BBQ from All Over the Lone Star State

Of course, great Texas barbecue is not corralled like cattle to only the center of the state. Texas is GIANT (it’s more than 850 miles from the Sabine River to the West Texas border town of El Paso), so try one of these other fabulous barbecue joints from all over the state—places whose barbecue makes Texans proud:

Fort Worth

Cooper’s Old Time Pit Bar-B-Que

Two more locations—the original in Llano (northwest of Austin), and one in New Braunfels (north of San Antonio).
www.coopersbbq.com

This Cooper’s location, near the cattleman’s capital of Texas in the old Ft.Worth Stockyards and just a boot-scoot from Texas’ largest honky tonk “Billy Bob’s Texas,” is home to the “Big Chop,” an enormous barbecued pork chop. Folks swear by Cooper’s brisket, ribs, chicken and hearty side dishes, too.

La Feria

Wild Bill’s BBQ & Steaks

956-778-0356

Located 24 miles northwest of the south Texas border town of Brownsville, Wild Bill’s “represents the frontier spirit with its great Texas decor, and Bill plays his part to the hilt, complete with a very impressive handlebar moustache, and well-used hunting knife hanging from his belt,” according to filmmakers in Barbecue: A Texas Love Story.

Terlingua

La Kiva

www.lakiva.net

When most Texans hear the word Terlingua, they think of chili, because this old West Texas ghost town is home to the Terlingua International Chili Championship. But these days Terlingua is also known for great, wood-fired barbecue. La Kiva, a bar and restaurant “cave” built into an area dug into a hill in the Big Bend RV Travel Park, features award-winning barbecue that earned awards in at least a dozen barbecue cook-off competitions. Featuring three stages with large music and pit barbecue, La Kiva is the creation of owner Gary Felts. Anyone famous ever come around? At this writing, former President George W. Bush is there doing a mountain bike ride in the area with a Wounded Warriors group.

Houston

Thelma’s BBQ

713-228-2527

With smoky ribs, oh-so-sweet barbecue sauce, and sassy old Thelma at the pit, even at this new location (the original Thelma’s burned down), you’ll find yourself in barbecue bliss. City slickers, turn off your cell phones: Thelma refuses to take your order if you’re on a cell phone—a rule she posted on the wall near another that says “no service if your pants are sagging.”

Dallas

Peggy Sue BBQ

www.peggysuebbq.com

Peggy Sue is known for her great veggies as well as her fine barbecue. This place is sure to please both vegetarians and carnivores, with great barbecue and some special lightly steamed vegetable side dishes, too.

Pack Your Bags

H Texas Opens the Door to Seven Charming Travel Spots

Planning a vacation, but not sure exactly where you want to go? Houstonians are fortunate; we have endless possibilities for vacation opportunities. There are fantastic day trip options and the entire state of Texas boasts some of the most versatile environments on earth. Additionally, we are centrally located with two convenient airports with an endless number of flight possibilities both domestically and abroad.

Often we get caught in a routine that becomes boring and predictable, even when planning a vacation. With the busy lifestyles of couples and families, many don’t take the time to research the possibilities.

H Texas has done the work for you. We have selected and reviewed seven distinct destinations. We are confident that at least one,, hopefully more, will appeal to you, your significant other and your family. You might even discover one that is a perfect place to send your mother-in-law!

Let H Texas be your travel guide – all you have to do is pack your bags!

Texas

A Journey Through Heaven On Earth

By Rick McMillen

The heart of Texas is a mere 150 miles from Houston. It is conveniently located for those who wish to escape the proverbial concrete realties of the mass, aggressive and abundant activity of Houston. Pack your bags, toss them, the kids and the family pet in the car, even at $4 dollars a gallon, the trip to tranquility is only $30.

I have lived in Houston for 30 years and I am absolutely amazed by the number of friends and associates who have never really been to the heart land of Texas. The Hill Country, a plethora of natural attractions, basically has it all for those who love and need a rhetorical fix on Mother Nature. Experience the forests, deserts, plains and mountains. There are numerous lakes and rivers and you can simply sit back, relax and enjoy or swim, fish or raft. The winery’s, restaurants, hotels and hidden resorts beckon your arrival and the days can be full, enjoying the bounty or relaxed, perfect for late morning sleeping, long siestas and romantic evenings.

Our first visit was a family camping trip to one of the larger reservoirs. As we began to enter the Hill Country, I recall the reactions from our three children. They were in awe of the hills, the foliage, the endless ranches of long horned cattle and the long, long stretches with no homes in site. I looked at my wife, we both grew up in the mid-west farmlands, and we realized that they had never experienced the natural beauty that was exploding in front of their little eyes.

Their passion for what they were witnessing and the week long events of swimming, fishing, hiking and camp fires are still remembered and are now being recreated with their own little ones.

For those who do not want complete solitude, there are the quaint, lazy towns of Bandera, Fredericksburg, Gruene, Kerrville and New Braunfels and many others that all offer great shopping and fantastic restaurants. Many of these small towns have their own, small museums or are only miles from historical locations and monuments. (Take a peek at page 48 and see the local listings of some of the best BBQ locations, right there, in or near the Hill Country.)

We are blessed to be Texans with so many amazing places to visit and an unlimited number of things to do and experience within our very own borders. But it is the Texas Hill Country that truly stands out as one of the best parts of this great state we call home. In fact, when we get to heaven, we may just be surprised to find it looks a whole lot like  the Texas Hill Country.

The Inn at Dos Brisas

By Laurette M. Veres

The chef at Dos Brisas has what the chef in all of us crave: a full garden to source ingredients.  Only an hour and a half from Houston, the Inn at Dos Brisas welcomes you with private casitas, individual golf carts, and equestrian facilities.  The Spanish mission style grounds, on 300 acres of Texas hill country, provide a splendid escape from bustling city life.  Each casita comes equipped with a golf cart so guests can explore the grounds and learn about herbs, spices, vegetables and more.

The night H Texas visited many Houstonians were on property for a special garden party.  The mobile five-star restaurant embodies the farm-to-table trend with organic gardens and wines, creative interpretations of haute French cuisine.

Jordan

A Modern Wonder of the World

By Laurette M. Veres

Considered by some to be the Switzerland of the Middle East, Jordan is the most progressive of its neighbors.  This nation, whose landscape you may recognize from Lawrence of Arabia, is also home to one of our world’s modern wonders, Petra.

Below Jordon’s capital Amman is the Dead Sea. From the Dead Sea you travel several miles to reach the ancient city of Petra. Photographs cannot portray the magnitude of size, colors or beauty, and it’s hard to select words to describe Petra. Recently added to the list of new seven modern wonders of the world (New7Wonders Foundation), its majesty is best witnessed at a slow pace.

Entrance to the city is through the Siq, a natural narrow gorge more than a mile long.  The path is lined with beautiful, soaring cliffs on both sides; you walk on cobblestone roads that are thousands of years old.  Much has been written about this area and the ancient Nabataeans whose 2000-year-old settlement is the most popular attraction in Jordan.

The view walking through the Siq is unbelievably gorgeous, yet pales in comparison to the first work of art you will see, the Al-Khazneh (Treasury).  This meticulously crafted monument is more than five stories high and was hand carved out of sheer, dusky pink rock.  It was created as a tomb and has been unbelievably preserved for our viewing pleasure.

Everybody stops. In fact, I feel it is impossible to ignore the beauty of Al-Khazneh and keep walking down the path. It feels like a movie set and, in fact, it was. In Indiana Jones and the Last Crusade, it was the entrance to the final resting place of the Holy Grail. While tourists take in the massive monument, street vendors mingle with the crowd selling postcards and trinkets. Some are selling camel rides, or at least photographs of you on the beasts.

As you continue walking, more tombs become visible and the vast expanse of space is revealed.  There are hundreds of elaborate rock-cut tombs with intricate carvings throughout this national treasure. The tombs were carved to last.  Further exploration uncovers a Roman theatre and more beautiful carvings. Missing are the homes for the city’s residents. They are long lost to earthquakes and age.

A set of steep steps leads up to an old meeting area that was once a Byzantine church.  The range of colors on the ceiling of the church is so vast it seems unreal at first, but these beautiful colors exist in nature.

There are no automobiles allowed here.  It’s a strenuous walk back.  If you can’t make it, there are plenty of horse-drawn carriages for the handicapped, elderly and tired.  As you make the mile long trek back, you can’t help but to begin dreaming of your next day at the Dead Sea.

The Jordan Valley Marriott Resort & Spa is an oasis in the dessert.  The meticulous lobby welcomes weary travelers and provides a welcome reprieve from the desert heat.  Three resort pools create a serene and relaxing setting for your picturesque walk to the Dead Sea.  You’ll need the provided plastic shoes to protect your feet from the sharp rocks as you descend to the base and get an up close look at the crystal, clear sea.

The sharp and uneven rocks make it difficult to keep your footing as you near the water – enter with caution. The water is like none you’ve entered before.  The Dead Sea is so full of nutrients and salt, it creates buoyancy beyond all oceanic experiences.  When you sit back, the water is so buoyant, it’s like you are sitting in a tube floating down the Guadalupe. Trying to get vertical is a challenge, but once you do, you don’t have to tread water to float perfectly upright.

Many people come here for natural treatments and the medicinal benefits of the mud.  The Dead Sea mud is said to have healing powers to cure diseases, rashes and arthritis.  Each morning the staff harvests mud into terra-cotta buckets.  It’s a blast to cover yourself in the mud and wait for it to dry.  When the mud washes off, your skin is tight and soft, making the long trip to Jordan worth every frequent-flier mile you’ve earned.

Mexico

Hotel Matilda in San Miguel de Allende

By Laurette M. Veres

You’ll feel like you’ve entered an art gallery when you walk in the Hotel Matilda in San Miguel de Allende. This new, boutique hotel offers first class amenities, a fabulous spa, great food and amazing artwork.

The City of San Miguel is known for art schools and attracting international, budding artists; pottery, textiles and contemporary art boutiques are all over this UNESCO-protected city.  The Matilda seeks to capture this artistic essence with clean lines and smooth surfaces framed by strategically placed works of art – reminiscent of an art gallery.  In fact, the famed Diego Rivera painted the hotel owner’s mother in San Miguel when she was a young girl.  Her name is Matilda and a replica of this painting hangs in the main lobby.

While the art is great, the spa experience is the highlight here.  As soon as you check-in, a young lady comes to your room to massage your head and shoulders.  It is a perfect way to relieve tension after the 1 1/2 hour plane ride to San Miguel de Allende.  The welcome massage is just a hint of things to come.

The Spa Matilda, just below the flowing water of the infinity pool, offers their signature treatment: the Hammam Ritual.  This is a private steam experience customized to each individual that consists of eucalyptus-scented towels, a body scrub and clay mask.  The tiled steam room has a towel-covered bench made to resemble the heated benches at the traditional Turkish Hammams.  Steam before a body treatment opens pores and begins the cleansing process.  This is the best steam area we’ve encountered.  It’s private and customized to individual needs – down to the blended soap.

Next, comes the 15-minute clay mask treatment. This stimulates circulation, accelerates cell growth and prepares the skin for further treatment.  You can remain in the Hammam up to 45 minutes.  (I make it about 30, but I do step out a few times to refresh with a eucalyptus scented wet towel.)  Time in the Hammam prepares you mentally and physically for the forthcoming treatment; just the right mood for a massage.

Part Thai massage and part deep tissue, the techniques used are evidence of superb training.  It’s not just a massage; most of my muscles are stretched, pushed, stretched some more and then massaged, delivering the utmost in therapeutic and restorative healing.

Executive Chef Bernard McDonough has the run of the kitchen.  His strong belief in fresh, organic, locally grown ingredients did not lead him to San Miguel.  In fact, when he arrived at Hotel Matilda, fresh ingredients were not easy to come by.  Through a creative partnership with Via Organica, a non-profit organization whose mission is to promote healthy eating, he is now able to source heirloom tomatoes, baby vegetables, lettuces, herbs and more. When he couldn’t find good cheese for his bar-favorite sliders, he teamed up with goat herder and native Cristina Gerez.  Now McDonough has a cheese cave to age his home made artisanal cheeses.  With this assortment of fresh ingredients, the menu is eclectic, creative and simply delicious.

Continental has direct flights to Leon.  From there, it will take you about an hour and 20 minutes to get to the Hotel Matilda. But, for the artwork alone, not to mention the local ambiance, amazing spa and excellent cuisine, the drive is well worth your while.

Editor’s note: Hotel Matilda’s owner has some Houston ties.  In fact, Harold Stream’s first foray into the hotel business was in the early ‘70s when he purchased the Warwick from the Mecom family.  Eventually, John Jr. purchased it back and today it’s the Hotel ZaZa.

Florida

Watercolor Inn & Resort

By Laurette M. Veres

Grab your favorite gal-pal and head to the Beaches of South Walton, a collection of 15 eclectic beach communities on the Florida coast.  The weekend H Texas visited, the 30A Songwriters Festival was in progress.  Imagine: emerald green water set to music.  We bee-bop from event to event along beautiful Highway 30A, officially designated Scenic Highway.

The Florida coastline is ecologically significant and home to the largest concentration of rare, coastal dune lakes in the world. The 15 lakes have been identified as globally extraordinary with similar ecosystems found only in Madagascar, Australia, New Zealand and the Northwest Pacific Coast of the United States.  Unlike sand dunes in Texas, you cannot walk in the brushy beach-lining areas. The one exception is at Grayton Beach State Park.  This is one of the few places you are allowed to explore a dune and study its structure.  Murray Balkcom of Walco Eco Tours leads an informative tour and explains the area’s bio-diverse ecological communities.  When you see brush at the top of a sand dune, many times, that is really the top of a tree!

Along Scenic 30A there are many lodging options. We check into the WaterColor Inn & Resort. This award winning, 60-room, boutique hotel sits on the beach and allows you to take in all the beauty with panoramic views of the water, large balconies and our favorite feature: ocean views from the shower.  (Save your shower for the morning; you must enjoy this luxury by the light of day.)

Comfortable conversations flow in WaterColor’s intimate lobby and bar, a unique setting reminiscent of your best friend’s living room.   Off the lobby, the library offers a relaxing spot to enjoy movies, books, magazines, today’s paper and more.  And, each evening you are greeted with homemade cookies.

Complimentary bicycles make it easy to further explore 30A and the many beach communities.  We hop on a bike and head east.

If you recall the tranquil town in the The Truman Show, you’ll recognize the colorful, cozy cottages used to create the movie’s setting at the Victorian community of Seaside.  We nosh at Great Southern Café where Chef Jim Shirley blends international cuisine with Southern flavors. Fresh produce from nearby farms and fresh fish from the Gulf of Mexico are combined with flavors from around the world.  Don’t miss Grits à Ya Ya, his version of shrimp and grits.  Next door, the iconic bookstore, Sundog Books, is an interesting venue for entertainer Chely Wright while she performs an acoustic set for a packed house.  We then mosey to a wine bar where we find Tim Nichols, writer of the song Live Like You Were Dying and many other number one musical hits, relaxing at the next table.

Continuing the course on 30A, we meet Allison Wickey, 2011 Artist of the Year, at World Six Gallery in Rosemary Beach.  She offers a unique craft – Venetian plaster on large slabs of wood.  We met her on a monumental day – reproductions of her work are now being shipped to specialty stores nationwide.

We spend each evening at Fish Out of Water, the fine dining establishment at WaterColor.  Performances from Vienna Teng, Mat Kearney, Rodney Crowell, Chuck Cannon, Shawn Mullins, Gretchen Peters and many more fill our nights. We find ourselves purchasing CDs and vowing to learn to play guitar.

As with all good things, our trip comes to an end. But we take home with us lasting memories of the sea set to music and thoughts of returning to Watercolor Inn – same time next year.

Key West

By Rick McMillen

A little over 25 years ago, my wife and I celebrated our 20th wedding anniversary by traveling to the exotic island of St. Thomas in the U.S. Virgin Islands. We had a fantastic time and, during that trip, we experienced snorkeling for the first time in the warm Caribbean waters. What we discovered was an underwater world of incomparable beauty.

On the third day of the trip, we rented an 18-foot Boston Whaler and decided to follow a commercial charter boat to their favorite snorkeling location. (A local recommended we do this.) Using the hotel supplied snorkeling gear, we gingerly dropped into the water. We entered the moving, visual world of a Monet painting. We were hooked.

That trip turned us into mega fans of the underwater passion of snorkeling. We quickly realized, however, that frequent trips into the heart of the Caribbean were both expensive and time consuming. Naturally, research and common sense dictated that we find a location in the states that would allow for ease of travel, would be less costly than international journeys and could be done over a long weekend. The Florida Keys was the answer.

It is not easy to pinpoint an exact location to go for the best snorkeling; but this never bothers us as my wife and I have always enjoyed the freedom of finding our own path. Normally, we rent a car (convertible) and follow the incredible, scenic roads that lace throughout the chain of remarkable islands. At each cay, the locals are quick to give advice on where to go and, more importantly, where not to go.

The keys are an archipelago of 4,500 islands. The total land area is 137.3 square miles with the southern most tip, Key West, a mere 90 miles from Cuba. While the options are endless when it comes to snorkeling, you will find resorts and accommodations more complex. Plan well, know where you want to go and heed the advise of the locals. Naturally, there are a plethora of dive/snorkel charters that will take you to living, coral barrier reefs and endless other unforgettable locations. However, I strongly challenge you to go on your own and be the captain of your own ship and your own adventure. It will be an incredible experience you won’t soon forget.

Grand Cayman

Ritz Carlton Dragon Bay Raises the Bar in Grand Cayman

By Jo Barrett

Imagine a place designed around the water; a place where water is revered. Developer Michael Ryan believes life is meant to be experienced on the water.  In his vision, you arrive at the airport, and a private boat whisks you to your home on the water. Within minutes of landing, you are cruising across that famous turquoise blanket that Grand Cayman is known for: Ocean, the temperature of a perfect bath; water where you can see your feet, and the colorful parrotfish swimming around them.

Grand Cayman is unlike any island in the Caribbean.  Famous for its sport fishing, powdery white Seven Mile Beach and Sting Ray City where tourists snorkel with large stingrays, Grand Cayman is, quite simply, a jewel nestled in the Caribbean.  It boasts a spectacular year round climate, is relatively crime-free, and one of the few islands where the locals enjoy a high standard of living. There is not a huge economic disparity between guests and residents, and people usually live there because they want to be there. This means the island is safe and stable, with high standards of living, happy locals and, most significantly, a lack of restrictions on foreigners purchasing real estate, which is tax free. Grand Cayman has no sales tax, no income tax, no capital gains tax, no property tax and no inheritance tax. Heaven, you say?  Interested in purchasing a vacation home? Not to worry. The local banks will generally lend between 50-75 percent of the property value to foreigners- which is a good thing for anyone considering purchasing island property in the newly open Ritz Carlton Dragon Bay community.

The Dragon Bay community and resort is a one-stop shop where everything is done well. Whereas other developments may offer a flagship golf course and mediocre spa, the Ritz Carlton manages every program impeccably. With a Greg Norman designed golf course, a La Prairie Spa, exceptional tennis center and one of the most awesome concepts for families traveling with children- a Jean-Michel Cousteau Eco-Adventure Family Program, the resort is truly a paradise.

The resort feels like a coastal community, which is exactly what developer Michael Ryan was shooting for when building the Deckhouses at Dragon Bay and Secret Harbour. The idea is not to simply provide a vacation home, rather, as Ryan says, the “platform for a community to come to life together.”  He believes that a vacation home shouldn’t exist in a vacuum.  That’s why the entire hotel, housing and resort development provides a community atmosphere. There are so many events the resort has to offer, such as the Taste of Cayman food and wine festival featuring world famous chefs, championship tennis tournaments with top rated players flying in from all over the world and, not to mention, fishing and golf tournaments.

Ambassadors of the Environment: One of the most exciting features of the resort for families involves dropping the kids off at what appears to be an old fashioned Caymanian home right on the property.  Inside, there is no Xbox or Nintendo, or anything close to the world of electronics that kids have become so familiar with today.  Instead, the program teaches kids how to respect nature, and enjoy a world outside of the electronic. Signs hanging around the house feature the principles of Jacques and Jean-Michel Cousteau: “Everything is connected,”  “Biodiversity is good” and “There is no waste in nature.” The idea is to provide kids with such a good time they don’t even realize they’re learning.

Eric Ripert’s Blue Restaurant: For those of you who enjoy watching Top Chef and are otherwise enthralled by all things food and wine, the Ritz Carlton Dragon Bay features the top Michelin starred restaurant in the Caribbean. Chef Eric Ripert’s Blue Restaurant is utter perfection, and there is no reason to dine anywhere else. The fish tastes as though it was plucked from the ocean that very day and the fragrance from the accompanying sauces are enough to make one swoon.

Imagine a wine pairing that actually works; a symbiotic relationship to the food, and not a ‘best guess.’

Critics of Caribbean resorts often point to the poor standard of service by unprofessional locals. Not so at the Ritz Carlton Grand Cayman, where every staff member wears the type of smile as if they know they live in paradise, and are keeping it a secret. The pool bartender told me a story of how she combed through the trash to find the missing orthodontic retainers of an upset, nine year old girl. “My father’s going to kill me,” the girl explained, saying that she’d left her retainers on her lunch plate.  The bartender found the retainers after sifting through the trash.  This is the type of service we’re talking about – the above and beyond kind.

In short, Dragon Bay offers something for everyone.  For couples, the atmosphere is romantic, particularly in the evenings where a night time beach walk is lit by torches.  For families, the pool is extremely friendly, even providing diapers for baby bathers.

The Ritz Carlton Residence Club and Secret Harbour provide among the best value among Caribbean second home opportunities with entry level prices under $1 million dollars.  Of course, there is also a $44 million dollar penthouse, but if you’re not an oil tycoon, opt for one of the gorgeous private homes of Dragon Bay.

Washington County, Texas

Historical Significance
History, antiques and pie, oh my!
Washington County Revealed
By Laurette M. Veres

Many German settlers arrived in America through the Port of Galveston. They loaded wagons with supplies and their families and headed northwest in search of fertile farming land. It wasn’t the greatest exploration in American history; they found the rolling hills, of what is now Washington County, 130 miles from the port. They settled and thrived, with cotton as their most abundant crop.

 

 

Today, you’ll find many Houstonians exiled in this hill-country substitute. Just one hour from downtown Houston, Washington County is known for bed and breakfast experiences, historic homes, wildflowers, Bluebell Ice Cream and homemade pie. It is also the birthplace of Texas.

So Much History, So Close
Most Texans have shouted “Remember the Alamo!” when motivating teammates or facing tough challenges, but do you recall the historic events surrounding this battle? Brush off your seventh grade history book and spend a day at Washington on the Brazos, a 293-acre state park located where Washington, a major political and commercial center, once stood.
Not even ghosts remain from the old town. A cistern from the hotel and remnants of a foundation, believed to have supported Independence Hall, and some weathered pecan trees are the only original artifacts left. In case you can’t find your old textbook and can’t remember the details, Independence Hall was the historic site of the signing of Texas’ Declaration of Independence, which was happening while Jim Bowie and his comrades were fighting to be remembered at the Alamo. Guides here do a great job of re-telling the story and providing fun facts, like why Sam Houston’s signature does not appear on the Declaration.

You will find two other major attractions in addition to Independence Hall- Barrington Living History Farm, and the Star of the Republic Museum.
The Barrington Living History Farm recreates what life was like for Dr. Anson Jones, the last President of the Republic of Texas. The staff raises cotton, corn, cattle and hogs using the same tools and methods the good doctor used in early to mid 1800s. Oxen pull plows around the small, restored farm house he shared with his wife, their 4 children, his wife’s younger siblings and his sister; the group appreciated their large porch and extensive acreage. Servant’s quarters and outbuildings have been recreated to complete the historic depiction.

It will take hours to fully explore the Star of the Republic Museum’s overview of the ten years Texas spent as a country. Back then, steamships smoked up the Brazos and cowboys sang to the herd. It was a rough territory; the museum let’s you experience it through interactive displays, authentic artifacts and original stories.

Continue the Texas experience

Texas Ranch Life owner’s John and Taunia Elick share their love of rodeo and ranching with guests from all over the world. Visitors can experience eight historic homes, a chapel, Spanish hacienda and several rodeo arenas on property. The barn is the main gathering area and Southern hospitality and homemade meals abound. The night we visited, our dinner consisted of barbecue beef, homemade sausage, spinach casserole, biscuits and was topped off with pecan and buttermilk pies.

Looking for easy access to wineries, antiques and more? Wakefield Farms in historic Chappell Hill is a great place to experience modern luxuries. You will enjoy the serene setting as you lounge by the pool, drink wine and enjoy the open space.

From this vantage point, you can easily enjoy a historic tour of Brenham, Chappell Hill, or you can hop on up to Round Top and its antique stores. If so, you must have a stop at Royer’s Round Top Café for some homemade pie and a heaping serving of hospitality. Bud Royer fled Houston in the eighties out of necessity. “There were no jobs in Houston, so I thought I’d give it a try here,” says Bud.

Current Washington County immigrants are more in tune to running wineries and restaurants than growing cotton. The friendly folks desire small town life and refuse from the big city. The area is filled with resilient entrepreneurs who are ready and waiting to help you slow down, ease the burden and enjoy small town pace. Get out of the big city – even for the weekend.

Editor’s note: The proximity to College Station makes this area very Aggie friendly. Gig ‘Em Ags.

Essentials:
www.birthplaceoftexas.com
www.texasranchlife.com
www.wakefieldfarms.com
www.royersroundtopcafe.com

Photos by Laurette M. Veres

Upgrade: Continental’s Business First

I just flew from Houston to London in the new and improved Business First Class cabin.  I’m happy to report it’s awesome. Awesome in the things I care about: seats, entertainment and dining.

First and foremost, the seats. They have adjustable leg rests and lumbar support. And the really great news, they fully recline.  Yes, the leg rest comes up and the back goes down until the seat is horizontal. Horizontal! This is a vast improvement over the old seats where you were almost horizontal but not quite. Now I can get comfortable enough to actually fall asleep.

As if fully reclining is not enough, the new seats are more like personal kiosks.  Next to the headrest is a small holding area you can easily stash your valuables and reading material. You will also find an international electrical outlet.  After years of promise, finally you can work on your laptop – or ipad or other electronic device and not be limited by the battery life.

The entertainment system has also been improved.  The screen is bigger and it is not attached to your seat.  It is actually in front of the seat on top of two personal storage areas.  (note: if you are tall, the top storage area becomes part of your horizontal bed). HUH?

The movie experience begins as soon as you take your seat. You can watch movies, television, classics and more- when you want to watch them.  You are in charge of your own kiosk and what is playing’

Now let’s get to the food.  Food service has always been a major production on International flights, and continues to be the cornerstone of the experience at Continental today.  Houston celebrity chef Bryan Caswell has been tapped to create some of the culinary offerings. His hot appetizers start the dining marathon; choose from soup, chicken skewers or pot stickers.  Next, generous salads and hot rolls lead up to the main course, tilapia and green beans.  The meal finishes with a selection of cheeses and cordials followed by ice cream sundaes.

The upgrade is noticeable.

Magnificent Moorea

Magnificent Moorea

Don your sundress and flip-flops, leave the stress of your wedding behind, and head to French Polynesia for a dream honeymoon. This idyllic retreat can be yours on the intimate island of Moorea.

The best way to travel to Tahiti from Houston is to catch the 7 pm Continental flight to Los Angeles and connect with Air Tahiti Nui. The Hilton Hotel Tahiti is in an industrial area nestled between the town of Papette and the international airport. Reserve a room for the night prior to your arrival, as the arduous journey and time change will leave you fatigued. Get straight to your room, pull the shades and take a long nap—the beds at the resort are amazing. The view from the fourth floor overlooks Tahiti Harbor bustling with boats—it’s not all that romantic, but the best is yet to come.

Papeete, the capital of Tahiti is a condense, bustling little town full of narrow streets snarled with traffic. The Public Market, a large two-story structure near the town’s center, is where locals sell arts, crafts, clothing, gifts, and fresh fruit. Some vendors have fresh whole fish on ice or hanging from large hooks. Locally produced jewelry prominently features Tahitian black pearls; shops specializing in the regional gem are everywhere. Evenings can be spent enjoying food and music with locals near the ship docks.

Moorea is a 30-minute Catamaran ride from Papette. From the large ferry, it’s clear the island is lush, green, and welcoming—the resort is even better. Individual huts serving as rooms spill down the mountain slope to the ocean and continue over the water. There are about 100 huts, half of which are built over the water in a reef- protected lagoon.

Each thatched-roof hut is rich in natural woods, has a high vaulted ceiling, a big beautiful bathroom, and lounge-esque patio area. Huts over the lagoon have glass panels in the floors to watch fish swim by and private steps for snorkeling in the crystal clear waters off the patio. If that’s not enough, breakfast is delivered by canoe at your request.

The path to the main restaurant and bar is an elevated, polished-ironwood walkway over a large koi pond. The gleaming natural wood theme is consistent throughout the pitched roof facility. Dining at the Moorea hotel is an indulgence. Try the elaborate seafood bar complete with grilled langoustine lobsters and oysters on the half shell. The meal is complimented with white wine, live music, and Polynesian dancers.

Moorea is known for growing vanilla beans, pineapples, and papayas. An island tour from Moorea Transport brings you up close and personal to these native crops.

There are few restaurants in town, but one of them, Te Hono Iti, is featured in the book “1000 Places to See Before You Die.” The tables are situated over shallow bay waters. Stingrays and petite sharks race to eat meat scraps waiters toss over the railing. The food is fabulously French—foie gras, seafood bisque, and Mahi Mahi mousse with rich lobster sauce.

Moorea, rumored to be the most beautiful island on earth, is the perfect place to honeymoon and start your new life as one.

ESSENTIALS

Stay
Hilton Hotel Tahiti
Ph: (689) 86 48 48
Fax: (689) 86 48 40

Hilton Moorea Lagoon Resort & Spa
Ph: (689) 55 11 11
Fax: (689) 55 11 55

Tour
Moorea Transport
Ph: (689) 56 12 86

- Laurette Veres
photo: Tom Flynn

CASA DRAGONES TEQUILA

On a recent trip to San Miguel de Allende, I had the opportunity to attend a tequila tasting.  I’ve attended many wine tastings in my time, but this was my first tequila tasting.  Handcrafted in small batches in Tequila, Mexico, Casa Dragones is a new, 100% Blue Agave Joven tequila with an exceptionally smooth taste that is best savored slowly, one sip at a time. One so I sipped.  It was smooth.  Really smooth.

The secret is to discard any Spring Break flashbacks you might have.  Tequila can be good.  And smooth.

Since its United States debut in fall 2009, Casa Dragones Tequila has earned praise from well-known chefs, top sommeliers and tequila aficionados for its distinctive taste, aroma and body that reflect the care and precision that go into its production.

The production is limited due to the meticulous attention to detail it takes to create each bottle by hand.   Co-founder and CEO Bertha González Nieves says, “For us, it’s one bottle at a time, and we never want that to change.”

Swirling a glass reveals its rich, silky body and long, pronounced legs, which leave a sleek texture on the palate.  One sip releases hints of vanilla and spiced undertones balanced with notes of pear for a uniquely smooth taste.

Co-founder Bob Pittman, a former AOL Time Warner COO and a founder of MTV and Pilot Group LLC, says, “Our vision was to produce a tequila with no ‘wince factor’ or harsh aftertaste.  We achieved it, and more.”

The name Casa Dragones is inspired by the legendary Dragones from San Miguel de Allende, who led one of the movements that sparked the Mexican Independence.  La Casa Dragones, the stables where the Dragones spent much of their time, still stands on a narrow, cobbled street in San Miguel de Allende.  Today, La Casa Dragones is home to a new tequila that defies the ordinary.  Casa Dragones Tequila is unique in every way, a testament to the spirit of independence.

To learn more about Casa Dragones Tequila, please visit www.casadragones.com.

 

Breathtakingly Beautiful Bora Bora

Breathtakingly Beautiful

Bora Bora

Honeymoon a la Nicole Kidman and Kate Walsh on the secluded, mystical isle of Bora Bora.

This past spring we were privileged to experience the allure of this French Polynesian island first-hand. We couldn’t dream up a more majestic place to celebrate the beginning of a new life together.
When we landed in Bora Bora, a private yacht picked us up from the airport and escorted us to the only over-water lobby on the island at the Bora Bora Nui Resort and Spa. Our private over the water bungalow was situated on a little islet, or motu as locals call them. We were just off the coast of Bora Bora and our room directly faced the enchanting island. The walls of our hut were covered in solid, dark wood and authentic Polynesian artwork. The glass paneled patio floor, living room end tables, and bathtub paneling all looked directly into the ocean floor. The roof was pitched 16 to 20 feet above our heads giving the room a palatial, majestic aura. Every night we slumbered in a large canopy bed surrounded by white linens that created a private, intimate shelter.

Relaxation, recreation, and rejuvenation were all we thought about during our time at the resort. Sweeping ocean views, the largest infinity pool on the island, and hillside treatment rooms at the full spa were just some of the reasons we fell madly in love with Bora Bora.
From snorkeling to kite surfing, the island is a paradise for water sport lovers. We joined Maohi Nui Tours for a lagoon excursion. They picked us up in a red, flower-encrusted boat piloted by an authentic Polynesian warrior. His long bushy hair, tanned tattooed body, and tribal dress were slightly intimidating at first. More than once he looked over and snarled, “Who’s for lunch?”
We first snorkeled through a magnificent coral garden. Next, we swam with and fed stingrays with our bare hands. We floated past the island’s protective reef into 30-foot crystal clear water. The water boiled as our warrior guide threw some fish nuggets overboard. The dorsal fins of large sharks zipped past our boat. “Into the water,” our guide ordered us. “You stay in boat, I bite.”
Scary? Yes. Incredible? Absolutely. There were thousands of tropical fish and about 15 black tip sharks ranging from four to six feet in length. They swam next to us, at us, snuck up behind us, and darted out from under us. At first we hug the hull of the boat for dear life (like that’s going to save us!). Gradually we swam out into the open ocean. Far below, a giant shadow slipped out of our view only to return later with a friend. Lemon sharks six to sixteen feet swam along the ocean floor searching for dinner. We spent thirty minutes swimming with sharks, yet the memory will last a lifetime.
Our warrior changed into festive tribal garb as he steered the boat with his feet and played an eight-string ukulele. He sung traditional chants and ended with “Stand by Me” as the boat docked on a private beach. He rolled back banana leaves from a hole in the ground and finally showed us who’s for lunch—a Polynesian barbecue. Half of a pig, breadfruit, bananas, poi, and chicken with spinach had been roasting all morning. Raw tuna mixed with slaw and assorted chilled fruits were ready for us on a small table. No silverware here, hibiscus leaves were our plates. Ice-cold beer accompanied our feast. After our warrior shared stories and lessons from his grandfather, we sailed back to our resort to the hum of his soft voice and melodic ukulele.
As we mourned our impending departure on our last evening in Bora Bora, we looked up and saw the famous constellation, the Southern Cross—a textbook finish to our picturesque, starry-eyed getaway.
From the dramatic scenery to the once-in-a-lifetime adventure, Bora Bora is unequivocally a paradise for honeymooners.

ESSENTIALS
Stay
Hilton Bora Bora Nui Resort & Spa
(689) 60 33 00

Tour
Maohi Nui Tour
(689) 67 69 94

- Laurette Veres
photography by Tom Flynn

Taha’a, Tahiti

Taha’a, Tahiti

Few paradise-esque destinations match the intimate seclusion and lavish luxury of the island of Taha’a.

Located on its own little Polynesian islet, or motu, Le Taha’a Resort and Spa sits off the coast of Taha’a. A short flight from Moorea to Raiatea and a private water taxi ride take you to this extravagant resort. The grounds are exquisite—expertly manicured sand and tropical vegetation flourish. Top-of-the-line guestrooms, decadent restaurants, and extravagant bars pepper the picturesque landscape. The lobby resembles an outrigger with a large sail extending two stories. On the second level, you’ll find the bar—the central point between the two signature restaurants. The spa’s treatment rooms are little huts over looking an inland lagoon. Snorkel through the coral gardens to neighboring motus for an unparalleled adventure; just sitting back and enjoying the view in this Polynesian paradise is hard to beat.

If your ultimate Tahitian fantasy is an over-the-water experience, you’ll adore the striking water bungalows. Constructed of bamboo with thatched roofs overhead, the bungalows have tribal carvings etched into the woodwork and canoe-shaped bathtubs. Two glass panels let you watch the fish from inside the privacy of your bedroom. One large glass box spans the width of the queen size bed; another is next to the bathtub—both open for you to feed the fish. Each hut is strategically positioned so you cannot see any other man made structure. At least a hundred yards from shore the view consists of crystal-clear water, uninhabited motus, and the big island of Bora Bora. The spacious patio has lounge chairs and a little outdoor hut, or fare pote to take in the view.

This distinctive part of Tahiti is best explored through an island tour. Pearl farms, vanilla plantations, and rainforests are hidden throughout the island. Head out on the muddy, slippery roads in a four-wheel drive, open-air tour truck decked out in flowers.

Dine at Chez Louise for an unexpected culinary indulgence. You may be the only customers in the small restaurant. But owner Louise, her husband, brother, and 22-year old son—none of whom speak English—will take care of your every need. When you ask for a wine list; a bottle of white wine will appear. You won’t receive a menu, but the rich aroma of delicious food will overwhelm your senses. Soon over-flowing platters of lobster, shrimp, tuna steaks, slaw with raw tuna, rice, and bread are on the table. You’ll leave the restaurant contented by delectable fresh seafood and smiling at your discovery of a rare lost gem.

For an exceptional romantic destination visit Taha’a for an island escape of uninterrupted blissfulness.

ESSENTIALS

Stay

Le Taha’a Island Resort and Spa

(689) 60 84 00

Tour

Vaipoe Tour

(689) 65 60 83

-Laurette Veres
photo: Tom Flynn

Barcelona: An Architectural Paradise…

Even for the Architecturally Challenged Tourist

by Sheryl Fairchild & Sue-Ella Mueller

Barcelona, the second largest city in Spain and the capital of the Catalonia region, is a Mediterranean coastal town encircled by beautiful beaches and lush mountain tops. For footballers, or rather soccer enthusiasts, it is best known as the home of one of the top European teams, FC Barcelona. The cosmopolitan city boasts of its incredible restaurants, shopping, tapas bars and nightlife. However, without a doubt, this is a city for the lovers of design, engineering, building and art deco; it is an architectural paradise.

Indisputably, the 1992 Summer Olympics breathed life back into this town which can be traced back to more than 2000 years. The original glory to some of Barcelona’s oldest and most famous buildings including several built in medieval times was restored as facades were scrubbed and renovated. Equally important were the buildings, facilities and stadiums needed to be constructed for the many venues. Planners and designers were careful to maintain the architectural integrity of the city. Together, the old and the new structures of the City of Barcelona encompass a wealth of eye pleasing sights that envelopes tourists into the deep culture and traditions of the community.

Admittedly, I am not well-versed on the history of architectural styles or the artistic relevance of structural design. But even I was blown away by the pure majesty of La Sagrada Familia, one of the most visited tourist attractions in Barcelona. The massive Catholic church has been undergoing construction since its inception in 1882 and not expected to be completed until sometime in the first third of the 21st century. Built entirely from privately donated funds, La Sagrada Familia represents the work of more than 40 years of renowned architect Antoni Gaudi.

Hovering above the church, there are currently eight spires or bell towers with ten more yet to be built, representing the 12 apostles, the four evangelists, the Virgin Mary and, the tallest spire, Jesus Christ. The artistry created by Gaudi in the spires, the moldings, the archways, but especially in his depiction of the Nativity façade truly left me breathless. The joy in Gaudi’s stone-carved faces at the birth of Christ was as moving and emotional to me as the anguish and pain depicted in the second façade, Passion. A third façade, Glory, is currently under construction and, for me, will be worth a trip back to see.

Tearing our group away from La Sagrada Familia was not an easy undertaking and was only done so amidst promises of seeing other works of Gaudi’s (a name I had never heard of before coming to Barcelona, but now the essence for my awe of the city). Among my favorite stops along the Gaudi tour was the Park Guell. There, we were greeted by a colorfully-tiled, water-breathing dragon guarding the entrance to this amazing park. From the gatehouse, which to me resembled a Dr. Seuss image come to life, to the Salon of the Hundred Columns (there are really only 84) seemingly growing straight up from the ground, and finally to the curved, mosaic-tiled benches allowing for the perfect view of the entire city of Barcelona, this is worth the effort that is needed to walk the many miles of the park. Filled with brilliantly colored tiles throughout, the park is a feast for the eyes.

Working my way towards becoming an art aficionado, I made the jump from Gaudi to Picasso quite easily. Pablo Picasso, while not a Barcelonian native, spent a portion of his youth here and returned later, splitting time living in Barcelona and Paris during his adult life. His love of Barcelona was evident in his desire to establish his art museum here, a dream which was fulfilled after his death by his secretary Jaume Sabartes and with donations of his work by his widow, Jacqueline Roque. Walking among his creations, including work from his Blue and Rose periods, instead of just seeing them in a book, and reading the exhibit on his personal life, I felt as if I had gotten a glimpse inside the mind of the famous Picasso. There is something to be said for looking at art through your own eyes instead of that of a photographer’s.

The Gothic tour of Barcelona was another one of my favorite events for this trip. Many of the buildings along the narrow streets of this area are from medieval times. With a mind geared toward historical fiction, it was easy for me to step back in time among the flying buttresses of the Gothic churches and the ornamental facades of the stone buildings that now house tapas bars and quaint cafes. The cobbled roads were just one more escape path for me from modern reality to the days of the Counts of Barcelona.

Hoping back in to the future, our group garnered a ride in a TRIXI, a bicycle cab and popular form of transportation, and made our way along the beach fronts to prime shopping on the Las Ramblas. Las Ramblas is a pedestrian friendly avenue and is probably the most famous boulevard in Barcelona. The outdoor vendors and supermarkets leave your mouth watering for a taste of the local culture. Beware though, while we were not hit, we heard many a tale of pick pockets looking for prime targets among the many tourists.

As night descended upon the ancient city, we were drawn to the beautiful light show of the magic fountain. As a traveler, a lighted fountain with dramatic water effects is not a new spectacle, but the sheer size of this fountain along with the fact that I am a kid at heart, made this an enjoyable way to pass a few hours before heading off to one of the many fabulous restaurants of Barcelona.

Among our many other adventures in this Mediterranean metropolis were visits to the Olympic stadium, the National Art Gallery of Catalunya, Passeo del Born, Santa Maria del Mar Church, Santa Caterina Market, the Museum of Contemporary Art of Barcelona, Casa Mila and La Pedrera. Finally, over-dosed on architecture, art and Barcelona history, we made our way to one of the most beautiful beaches in Europe. Basking on the golden sand, bathing in the minimal surf and soaking up the perfect temperature, I knew then and there why this was the beloved city of both Gaudi and Picasso. Barcelona is a Spanish treasure whose worth can only be known through experience.

Rouge et Blanc in Lake Charles

Bottle of Red, Bottle of White
Bacchus, the God of Wine visits Lake Charles, LA
By Laurette M. Veres

The highly anticipated food and wine festival Rouge et Blanc brings heartfelt goodness to the heart of Cajun country.

Wine pairings, seminars and dinners take place throughout Lake Charles, Louisiana all week as partiers, food coinsures and wine aficionados anxiously await the main festival on Saturday. When lovers of food and wine get together, only goodness can happen.

The Golden Ticket
Wine dinners abound during the weeklong celebration of red and white. One of the most anticipated takes place at La Truffe Sauvage. The evening begins with the N.V. Charles Heidsieck, Brut, Reserve paired with the escargot and salmon Crostini. According to co-host Jared Cocke of Republic National Distributing Company, the first champagne reached Louisiana in the 1800s. Other highlights of the meal include: Fresh Tagliatelle pasta and alba white truffle paired with light colored, full bodied 2004 Barolo; Pan roasted wild Alaskan Halibut served with a fire roasted pepper risotto and 2007 Louis Jadot, Beaune, Les Avaux. It’s a treat to dine at one of the finest restaurants in town. It’s more of a treat when the chef and wine supplier are given creativity carte blanche.

Eat, Drink and Be Happy
Welcome to the big show. Rouge et Blanc offers more than bottles of wine – you’ll find, champagne and bites from local restaurants. The grounds in front of the historic city hall are closed to motorized vehicles so pedestrians can roam freely among nearly fifty tasting tents. This is a great place to get your fill of Atchafalaya, gumbo, etoufee, prime rib, lamb chops, and more; plus lots of wine. The Clock Tower at City Hall is a beacon for dessert lovers. The building is overflowing with cupcake displays, bread pudding and other confectionary delights.

The Celebration Continues
Bubbles for Banners wraps up the week’s activities. This new, upscale champagne brunch takes place at L’Auberge du Lac. The award-winning chefs work their magic in live cooking demonstrations and the scent of truffle popcorn wafts through the ballroom. In this casual setting, attendees compare notes and re-live the previous day’s revelries as they enjoy made to order salmon, eggs Benedict, quiche, fruit and a plethora of desserts. Proceeds go to the Banners program, a cultural program at local McNeese University.

Local Color
Firm up your Fat Tuesday facts at the Mardi Gras Museum. Brightly colored “Krews’” (groups who participate in Mardi Gras parades) costumes fill this historic schoolhouse. Mardi Gras’ theme changes each year and designers strive to outdo the previous year’s garb. It’s bad luck to wear a costume more than once, so the museum has a constant flow of new displays. You will also find float replicas that makes you feels like you’re on a parade float.

Stay
For the best accommodations in Lake Charles, head to L’Auberge du Lac Casino Resort located on Contraband Bayou. The luscious grounds, winding pool, multiple restaurants and casino are the closest to Las Vegas style you’re going to find on Interstate 10.

If you love food and wine, you’ll want to attend the next festival. Tickets are on sale now for the main event on October 15th.

Essentials:
rougeetblanc.us
thewildtruffle.com
ldlcasino.com

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