Ready to feast on the latest culinary delights? There’s no better place to taste delicious dishes, learn quick cooking tips from pros and rub elbows with celebrity chefs than at international food festivals. Here are the most exciting epicurean events that will allow you to eat your way around the world.

Melbourne Food and Wine Festival
In March, this festival unveils a mouth-watering program of more than 250 events bringing food and wine to the streets of Melbourne over a two-week period. One of its most iconic events is the ‘world’s longest lunch,’ where some 900 diners enjoy a three-course alfresco lunch seated at a snaking 1312-foot-long table, the location of which changes each year. While the cuisine is traditional Australian (think surf ‘n’ turf, not Vegemite), the festival has introduced a special focus on heritage and long-lost culinary skills such as preserving, pickling and smoking.

Montreal Beer Festival
The Montreal Beer Festival is the largest of its kind in Canada, attracting over 80,000 thirsty revelers every June for five days of brewery tastings, beer and cheese workshops, flavor contests, food-beer pairing seminars, musical entertainment and plenty more. Welcoming everyone from curious novices and self-confessed epicureans to the finest beer connoisseurs on the planet, the Mondial de la bière has long been championing the reinstatement of beer’s noble status. There are also food booths offering hearty fare such as boar, ostrich and smoked meats.

Taste of London
Held in Regents Park every June, the Taste of London is a four-day celebration of food and drink. This is where London’s top restaurants – such as Yauatcha, Theo Randall and The Modern Pantry – serve sample-sized dishes with award-winning chefs revealing their tricks of the trade. You can also take part in wine tutorials and cooking classes, and watch chefs wield their knives in the cookery theater. Expect an eclectic array of cuisines, which make this a diverse and multi-cultural event, representing foods from around the world.

Fete de la Crevette (Honfleur, France)
The largest seafood festival in France, the Fete de la Crevette is a two-day event with nautical-themed concerts and gatherings of historical old sea vessels near the mouth of the Seine. Indulge on shrimps, especially the little grey shrimp, or ‘petite grise’, a local specialty, plus a variety of seafood including all manner of unusual subterranean dwellers such as sea spiders. There’s even a shrimp-peeling competition for the nimble fingered.

Taste of Beverly Hills
A relative newcomer to the festival scene, Taste of Beverly Hills is nonetheless an epicurean spectacular worth celebrating. Set on the famous Wilshire Boulevard behind the Beverly Hilton, the five-day event includes cooking demos with world-famous chefs and wine seminars with some of the best vintners in the state. Previous festivals have provided a showcase for celebrity chefs and restaurateurs including Wolfgang Puck, Curtis Stone, Top Chef winner, Michael Voltaggio; French chef Ludo Lefebvre; and Jon Shook and Vinny Dotolo of the trendy LA restaurant Animal.

Starting a luxury cruise is one of these cities is ideal!

What Will Make Your Holiday Shopping More Exciting?
The Europe Christmas markets! A European Christmas Market river cruise is the perfect way to combine a fabulous vacation with some holiday shopping.  Browsing the charming stalls in each port, you can find trinkets for everyone on your list.  And, you will take great pride when friends and family open your spirited gifts!

Looking For Hats?
In Germany, Bavaria's well-known brimmed hats (with decorative feathers or edelweiss flowers) will come to mind. But, it doesn't stop there. Christmas markets around Europe provide a wide selection of head-toppers. For example, in Budapest, Slovakia and Austria, a fur trimmed brim is popular.  Maybe you want a matching scarf and gloves; no problem! Hat stands come fully stocked.  It will be hard not to be tempted to pick up a few things for yourself!

Nativity Scenes
Religious statuettes and meticulously hand-carved dioramas are plentiful in Europe, where there's a church on just about every street corner. There are endless varieties and styles of nativity sets available, which could make for a fun collection or unique gifts for your religious friends. Even if you're not particularly religious, it's hard to keep from marveling at the craftsmanship of these precious scenes. 


Things On A String
Not just ornaments! You'll find all kinds of sparkling, intriguing and even fragrant objects attached to strings and hanging from most Christmas market stands. A favorite is garlands of orange peel, cinnamon, and various dried fruits and flowers that give off an invigorating perfume. Wooden lanterns in Salzburg, Austria hang glowing along the stands. Ornate votive candle holders on chains glimmer in the sun, and tiny dolls and critters playfully sway on strings in the winter air. 


 Heart-Shaped Cookies
Perhaps best known in Vienna (where there's an entire tree with red hearts glowing warmly from its bare branches), heart-shaped cookies are a holiday tradition for locals. Saccharine phrases scrawled on gingerbread (known in German-speaking countries as lebkuchen) in pastel icing translate to phrases like "Merry Christmas" or "I love you." The cookies are plastic-wrapped and will survive a flight, so they're a sturdier bet than other confections. 

Handmade Toys
In an increasingly tech-savvy world, it's refreshing to find a handmade toy without a touchscreen, button or automation in sight. Whether you're snatching them up for display or gifting them to children, Old World toys, such as marionettes, might remind you of a simpler time when things were made with artistry from wood and paint. Nutcrackers for sale in local markets are as varied as the people who buy them. 

Avalon Waterways, one of my favorite river cruise lines is raising the bar (in this case baton) with a series of unique experiences. They were the first to try conducting an orchestra in Vienna.

How You Ask
Vienna echoes to the strains of Schubert, members of the Strauss dynasty and Mozart; who were born or lived in the city at various times. Classical concerts are one of the city's most popular attractions, with performances almost every night of the week. While river cruise lines have sometimes brought passengers to concerts, Avalon Waterways' passengers can go a step further and conduct an orchestra. The line introduced the optional activity as part of its Active Discovery program which launched on Danube sailings in 2017. Active Discovery itineraries were extended to the Rhine in 2018 and, new for 2019, will also feature the Rhone. 

During the excursion, budding Leonard Bernsteins are taken to one of the city's famous concert halls and introduced to the art of conducting before taking to the stage and leading an orchestra through a series of waltzes and polkas. It's a once-in-a-lifetime experience whether you're very musically minded, or simply curious to find out what it's like to stand in front of an orchestra rather than sit in the audience.  Return home with a baton as a souvenir and each time you hear a waltz or polka on the radio, you will be tempted to do a bit of "air conducting"!

Don't worry if you're not a musical maestro, as the experience is all about learning in a fun (albeit impressive) environment. If you want to steal the spotlight and share of the limelight, don't forget to bring along a camera to capture photos and videos of your performance. Encore!

​Contact ChrisRakes@totalexperiencetravel.com to help you plan your river cruise! Avalon's Active Discovery program is among her favorites.  But, as a certified river cruise specialist, she is equipped to help you choose among the different cruise lines and itineraries in your best interest!

A Caribbean vacation isn’t complete without visiting the island’s most magnificent gems. Waterfalls in the Caribbean are typically found nestled in the hills and surrounded by lush greenery filled with exotic fauna. The crystal clear and refreshing rapids are awe-inspiring. With all the beauty in the islands it’s difficult to know which attraction to see first, but no worries, we have narrowed it down for you. Check out the 8 must-see Caribbean waterfalls.

Jamaica, Dunn’s River Falls
Probably one of the most famous in the Caribbean, these magnificent falls are 60 feet high and empty directly into the sea!  A series of pools and rocks that have become smooth from the pressure of the falls, make it a perfect natural playground! Make sure you visit the beach and test out the natural slides!

Jamaica, YS Falls
Found deep in the heart of Jamaica’s South Coast, YS Falls is a place of unique beauty and a must-see whilst on the island.  With seven waterfalls and a series of naturally formed freshwater pools, it’s a natural wonder hidden in the southern parish of St. Elizabeth. Make sure you climb the nature trails to the top of the falls, grab a rope swing and jump in! Swim in its natural pools. They also have the opportunity to zip-line through the rain-forest canopy from the top of the falls to its base below.

Saint Lucia, Errard Falls
If you’re looking for an adventure that’s off the beaten path and you’re up for a bit of a trek, this one’s for you!  After a bike ride through the forest it’s time to talk a walk through the jungle, across river (and over a few rocks!) to reach the foot of this incredible waterfall! It’s a beautiful clear pool surrounded by deep rain-forest. Make sure you observe the incredible biodiversity of the area, like the super cool land crabs that you’ll find hiding under the rocks.

Grenada, Concord Falls
If you like to hike, this is the one for you; a series of three waterfalls located on the edge of a reserve on the western side of the island, the water is crystal clear and ice cold! Make sure you take a camera!

Barbados, Harrisons Cave
Forget the beaches, discover the hidden waterfalls beneath the surface of this Caribbean paradise in a massive stream cave system that is at least 2.3 kilometres long! Visit Harrison’s Cave Barbados to see the stalactites, stalagmites, glass-like pools and hidden waterfalls! Make sure you carry water and a camera with flash and don't miss the cave and critters!

For the best experience book in advance through your travel agent, or the resort and trusted tour company onsite to visit these must-see sites!

Contact ChrisRakes@totalexperiencetravel.com to help you plan your Caribbean vacation! She is an all inclusive specialist and her personal professional planning services bring you added value from research through return at no extra cost.

​What’s the deal with the Dutch Tulip? The flower, commonly associated with Holland, has a deep-rooted (pun intended) history with the country. Here are 5 fast facts about Holland’s tulips that you should know…

1. Tulips didn’t originate in Holland. They were imported from the Ottoman Empire (present day Turkey) starting in the 16th century.
2. If you want to see the tulips, look no further than Keukenhof Garden – more than 7 MILLION bulbs bloom here annually.
3. Tulips bloom between late March and early May, but mid-April is your best bet to see the flowers at their peak.
4. The Dutch countryside is lined with flower fields. The area between Haarlem and Leiden, known as the Flower Strip, is also an ideal place to frolic among the flowers.
5. You can take tulips home! Bloemenmarkt, Amsterdam’s floating flower market, sells fresh tulips or bulbs that you can have shipped home to plant in your own garden.

​With its elaborate facades and captivating canals, Amsterdam’s charm draws travelers from all around the world. It is a city filled with beauty, art, food, and rich culture – truly offering something for every type of traveler to enjoy. Here are just a few favorite ways to spend a day in this pretty city:

Visit the Rijksmuseum. Whether you’re an art aficionado or you can’t tell the difference between a child’s splatter paint and a Pollock, a visit to the famed Rijksmuseum is certainly worth your while. This museum is home to some of the world’s most spectacular paintings from renowned Dutch artists like Rembrandt, Vermeer and Van Gogh, a collection of Delft pottery, a library that houses extensive documentation of art history, and other stunning exhibits that help you understand and appreciate the Dutch people and their past.

​Take a canal cruise. A trip to Amsterdam is not complete without cruising through the canals and under the arched bridges that connect the city. Get an up-close view of the decorative homes and storefronts that give the city much of it’s character. For a more romantic experience, cruise at night when the buildings and bridges are illuminated.

Try Poffertjes! These miniature pancakes, traditionally served with butter and powdered sugar, are a Dutch favorite and can be found at pancake houses throughout the city, as well as at street vendor booths during national holiday celebrations and festivals.

Rent a bike. Did you know that more than 75% of Amsterdam’s population owns and rides a bicycle every day? There are more than 800,000 bicycles in Amsterdam, making it far and away Europe’s biggest cycling city. For the most authentic way to see the sites, find a bike to rent (or borrow the bikes from your Avalon ship) but proceed with caution… these guys are skilled cyclists!

Visit Keukenhof Gardens. If you are paying a visit to Amsterdam in the spring, you can’t miss the perfectly planted rows of tulips, daffodils and hyacinths in Keukenhof. Each year, more than 7 million flowers bloom here, all arranged in stunning rows and designs and turning the garden into a true work of art. The flowers are only in bloom for about 8 weeks – try to visit between late March and late May.

Visit Zaanse Schans. Just outside of Amsterdam, you’ll find the most charming and well-preserved Dutch town of Zaanse Schans. Here you will see traditional windmills, cheese shops, bakeries and wooden clog workshops – all that your Dutch dreams are made of!​

Chances are you’ve visited at least one of the 1,073 World Heritage sites on UNESCO’s ever-growing list of historically and culturally significant destinations. Bucket list all stars include the Great Wall of China, Stonehenge and Serengeti National Park, but not all the sites are as well-known as these storied icons. Here are six under-the-radar gems that might not be on your list — yet. 

Semmering Railway — Austria
Spectacular mountain views will almost make you forget that you’re riding on one of the world’s greatest feats of civil engineering. Built between 1848 and 1854, this dramatic railway utilizes 14 tunnels, 16 major viaducts, 118 stone bridges and 11 iron bridges to pass through some of the highest mountains in the Alps.

Tsodilo — Botswana
Known as the “Louvre of the Desert,” this historic section of the Kalahari Desert is home to the highest concentration of rock art in the world. More than 4,500 paintings are preserved on massive rock formations that rise dramatically from the desert floor making for a remarkable archaeological record that traces human activity from the Stone Age through to the 19th century.

Longmen Grottoes — China
Here you will find the largest and most impressive collection of Chinese stone carving from the late Northern Wei and Tang Dynasties (316-907). Located alongside the Yi River in the Henan province, the grottoes’ caves and niches represent the high point of Chinese stone carving and contain almost 110,000 Buddhist statues, more than 60 stupas and 2,800 inscriptions.

Paphos — Cyprus
Inhabited since the Neolithic period, the city of Paphos still holds the remains of villas, palaces, theaters, fortresses and tombs dedicated to the cult of Aphrodite. Legend says the Greek goddess was born on the island and the buildings constructed in her honor contain some of the world’s most magnificent mosaics.

Old Rauma — Finland
Situated on one of the oldest harbors in Finland, Old Rauma is an outstanding example of a medieval Nordic city. Built around a Franciscan monastery, the city is composed of some 600 wooden buildings that preserve the region’s spectacular architectural heritage.

Aldabra Atoll — Seychelles
The world’s second largest coral atoll, isolated Aldabra is home to the largest population of giant tortoises. Tourism is strictly limited, but the lucky few who get to make the trip experience a marine ecosystem like no other.

Half the battle of a successful family getaway is picking the right location. What does it take for an island to meet the mark? First, the basics: abundant sunshine, pristine beaches and a safe atmosphere. After that comes plenty of family-friendly activities and opportunities for adult relaxation. The right destination also needs to be easy to get to and get around. That’s a tall order, but luckily there are plenty of viable options. Here are our personal favorites guaranteed to make everyone happy.

Note: Many of our clients think they should avoid the Caribbean due to recent hurricane damage. We can assure you that the islands listed below, as well as 90% of the Caribbean islands, are definitely open for business and would gladly welcome your visit.
 
The Bahamas
Whether you choose a spacious resort like Atlantis or prefer the laid-back charm of Harbour Island, the Bahamas offer something for everyone. Family-oriented adventures abound — think snorkeling, exploring Lucayan National Park by kayak and swimming with dolphins — and there are enough golf courses, spas and high-end shopping to keep parents happy.
 
Grand Cayman
A quick trip from the East Coast, Grand Cayman is a tropical paradise with plenty to see and do for your entire brood. Along with the requisite white sand beaches and turquoise water, the island features family-friendly activities like pirate ship and sea turtle farm tours and submarine trips.
 
Aruba
With a seven-mile stretch of beach lined with hotels, dining and recreational options, the opportunities for family fun are practically endless on this Dutch island. In addition, the desert landscape offers an excellent beach alternative with natural attractions such as Arikok National Park, where cacti grow to unexpected heights and fantastically shaped divi-divi trees make for a fun hike.
 
Amelia Island
For those looking to stay stateside, Amelia Island, off Florida’s northeastern coast, is a pristine paradise complete with dune-filled beaches, championship golf courses, historical charm and boutique shopping.
 
Maui
Get back to nature on Maui, where your family can go hiking in Haleakala National Park, spot sharks at the Maui Ocean Center, take a ride on the Sugar Cane Train or simply enjoy some of the best beaches in Hawaii.

ALL INCLUSIVE
Not every vacation has to be a big one.  But, when you are looking for something special, relaxing and most enjoyable all inclusive resort and cruise options make it easy for everyone to have a great time.

Few among us are lucky enough to sleep well on an overnight flight. But just because you can’t get a full eight-hours of quality shut-eye doesn’t mean you’re doomed to a night of endless sitcom reruns. Arrive at your destination ready to go with these tried-and-true tactics.

Splurge on an Upgrade
Your best chance for a relaxing night’s sleep is by paying for the privilege. Those lie-flat beds may be expensive, but for travelers who can’t afford to arrive groggy, they’re your best bet. If a business class ticket isn’t in the cards, at least shell out for a seat with extra leg room.

Layer Up
Wearing loose-fitting clothing made from breathable fabric is obvious, but being comfortable on an overnight flight also requires you to adapt to bewildering swings in temperature. Our expert advice: wear layers.

Keep Your Feet Warm
Nothing inhibits sleep like cold feet, and if you’ve ever flown overnight, you know those under-seat drafts can be brutal. Protect your toes by donning a fresh pair of warm socks, preferably wool, before you settle down for the night.

Turn Off the Screen
Research shows that limiting screen time before bed improves sleep quality. The same rule applies on planes. Give your body a fighting chance by turning off all LED devices and mobile phones.

It’s All About the Accessories
Sometimes it’s the little things that help the most. Conveniently, those little things all fit in a small carry-on. An inflatable neck pillow, sleeping mask, pashmina and ear plugs or noise reduction headphones can make a world of difference.
​
Eat a Light Meal
Stress, anxiety, excitement…these are only some of the emotions stirred by air travel. Add a heavy meal to the mix and you have a recipe for a long night of disturbed sleep. Help relax your mind and body by eating a healthy well-balanced meal.