The Big Wonderful World-
Remembering Europe
I have many stories about the time I lived and traveled in Europe but the story that is most requested is my bathroom experiences. Yes, the facilities in Europe and around the world for that matter are varied and unique. When ever I tell this story I am regailed by others personnal hygene experiences which I now understand makes a universal impression on everyone that travels abroad. Whether it is porta potties in Mexico or seashells in India you just have to laugh and chalk it up to embracing your inner native-
Nothing says bathrooms more than taking one of those 12 city 7 day road trips. I was living in London at the time when I experienced my first out of body public "lue" experience. I was shopping on Oxford street when I went in search of the elusive public potty, as anyone well knows, public restrooms are difficult to find in any large city and as big cities go London is better than most. Never-the-less I was about to burst my buttons when I began to see the signs (literally) that seemed to take me on an adventure rivaling Alice down the rabbit whole. Finally going down to the bowels of the city down ancient Roman steps till oila, the angels really sang, a georgeous Roman bath complete with floor to ceiling marble and ancient lion heads. OK this was some public restroom, complete with vomit trough, which I could only hope was no longer used. When I completed my visit I was treated to a fountain of water casscading out of the mouths of magnificent carved Lion heads. Actually it totally dumbfounded me where the water was until, an obvious native of London, came along and stuck her hands under the lion's mouth and out came water. The statue had been censor activated- How ingenious. I think the Roman inventors of plumbing would have appreciated censor activated devices, clean buggers that they were.
On to my bus trip, first stop Paris. Ah Paris lovers of the porta potty! No problem finding one of those shiny chrome bullets. They are all over Paris; like little missile beacons. Put my change in and a very Star Trek like door slides open. A model of pristine metal, all clean and anticeptic, so far so good! Door closes and I sit down and suddenly my potty begins to converse in a multitude of languages ending in English just as I hear- The door will open in 1 minute, wait What! Lights out and now I am in the dark pulling up my pants, fumbling for the sink, swearing in my preferred language and shazaam the door opens to onlookers wondering why my shirt is half tucked and I have an expression of shear terror on my face. Out I go and the door closes, automatically disenfects the room and is ready for the next visitor. I have a desire to warn the next inhabitent but I don't. After all this is part of the Paris experience.
In Rome I stayed at a lovely little Hotel that had a charming bathroom with a shower that seemed to me making the most of a little space. When I took a shower the entire room got wet. I had my choice of the traditional shower or showering while on the toilet, complete with wet toilet paper or showering while brushing my teeth complete with wet towels. I can imagine how much time this saves, especially if I'm anxious to see the sites of Rome. I would think the town that invented plumbing would have public restrooms all over but not so, however, If you are lost on the streets of Rome ( which you will) then just about anyone on the street will let you use there bathroom at their home. Friendly people the Italians or maybe they are more aware of the restroom situation than I was.
Germany, ah Germany, if I had a choice I would just not bother going to the bathroom in Germany. Public restrooms are very, well, minimalist. This makes some sense since the Germans do like their minimalism in all things- furniture, architecture, paintings, yet in public restrooms I doubt the logic. A whole in the floor with a dent on either side to place my feet and waxed toilet paper ( I have no idea) is about as minimal as I will ever care to go. For a man this seems plausible but for a woman, well let's just say it can be an acrobatic feet.
And last but certainly not least Switzerland. Ah Switzerland how I love thee. Home of the water pick and the shower massager. Every bathroom in every public location, every restaurant, every hotel is like a spa. Beautiful tile, every possible functioning gizmo known to man all at my fingertips. Now here are people who know how to enjoy life and apparently they spend a great deal of that life in the bathroom. Potties are a point of pride and it shows. My theory is the reason so many group tours end in Switzerland is because of the restrooms. It's just a theory but I will go to my grave defending it.
Ultimately it is not the food or the vistas that will leave an indelible impression on you but the restrooms of Europe. If you have done international travel then you know what I mean if not just wait, you will- oh you will.
Nothing says bathrooms more than taking one of those 12 city 7 day road trips. I was living in London at the time when I experienced my first out of body public "lue" experience. I was shopping on Oxford street when I went in search of the elusive public potty, as anyone well knows, public restrooms are difficult to find in any large city and as big cities go London is better than most. Never-the-less I was about to burst my buttons when I began to see the signs (literally) that seemed to take me on an adventure rivaling Alice down the rabbit whole. Finally going down to the bowels of the city down ancient Roman steps till oila, the angels really sang, a georgeous Roman bath complete with floor to ceiling marble and ancient lion heads. OK this was some public restroom, complete with vomit trough, which I could only hope was no longer used. When I completed my visit I was treated to a fountain of water casscading out of the mouths of magnificent carved Lion heads. Actually it totally dumbfounded me where the water was until, an obvious native of London, came along and stuck her hands under the lion's mouth and out came water. The statue had been censor activated- How ingenious. I think the Roman inventors of plumbing would have appreciated censor activated devices, clean buggers that they were.
On to my bus trip, first stop Paris. Ah Paris lovers of the porta potty! No problem finding one of those shiny chrome bullets. They are all over Paris; like little missile beacons. Put my change in and a very Star Trek like door slides open. A model of pristine metal, all clean and anticeptic, so far so good! Door closes and I sit down and suddenly my potty begins to converse in a multitude of languages ending in English just as I hear- The door will open in 1 minute, wait What! Lights out and now I am in the dark pulling up my pants, fumbling for the sink, swearing in my preferred language and shazaam the door opens to onlookers wondering why my shirt is half tucked and I have an expression of shear terror on my face. Out I go and the door closes, automatically disenfects the room and is ready for the next visitor. I have a desire to warn the next inhabitent but I don't. After all this is part of the Paris experience.
In Rome I stayed at a lovely little Hotel that had a charming bathroom with a shower that seemed to me making the most of a little space. When I took a shower the entire room got wet. I had my choice of the traditional shower or showering while on the toilet, complete with wet toilet paper or showering while brushing my teeth complete with wet towels. I can imagine how much time this saves, especially if I'm anxious to see the sites of Rome. I would think the town that invented plumbing would have public restrooms all over but not so, however, If you are lost on the streets of Rome ( which you will) then just about anyone on the street will let you use there bathroom at their home. Friendly people the Italians or maybe they are more aware of the restroom situation than I was.
Germany, ah Germany, if I had a choice I would just not bother going to the bathroom in Germany. Public restrooms are very, well, minimalist. This makes some sense since the Germans do like their minimalism in all things- furniture, architecture, paintings, yet in public restrooms I doubt the logic. A whole in the floor with a dent on either side to place my feet and waxed toilet paper ( I have no idea) is about as minimal as I will ever care to go. For a man this seems plausible but for a woman, well let's just say it can be an acrobatic feet.
And last but certainly not least Switzerland. Ah Switzerland how I love thee. Home of the water pick and the shower massager. Every bathroom in every public location, every restaurant, every hotel is like a spa. Beautiful tile, every possible functioning gizmo known to man all at my fingertips. Now here are people who know how to enjoy life and apparently they spend a great deal of that life in the bathroom. Potties are a point of pride and it shows. My theory is the reason so many group tours end in Switzerland is because of the restrooms. It's just a theory but I will go to my grave defending it.
Ultimately it is not the food or the vistas that will leave an indelible impression on you but the restrooms of Europe. If you have done international travel then you know what I mean if not just wait, you will- oh you will.
Planning a trip to New mexico click on pictures for a better look
I used to live in Sata Fe, N.M. and my family just recently went back on vacation. Hope these suggestions will help you plan a wonderful trip to the Land of Enchantment.
Shopping tips-
1. Always haggle 2.Learn what stabalized turquoise is. You don't want it. 3.Red or Green? 4. A bowl of chili is green, we're not in Texas people. 5.Wear sensible shoes for walking. 6. Silver must say Sterling or 925 on it by law. 7. Getting ripped off in Santa Fe is a full time business. If you don't know much about stones and metals don't sweat it. If you love it then it was a good buy. 8. If you are a collector don't skip Canyon Rd. |
New Mexico Hot Spots-
Rio Grande Gorge- The low road through the gorge is precarious. If your not so adventurous then go to the look-out. Taos Pueblo- best of the 19 pueblos Carlsbad Caverns- stay for the dusk bat flight durig season White Sands- for the hiker or photographer. Head into Los Alamos for a tour of the Los Alamos labs. Bandelier National Monument- This is the one place you should never miss when going to N.M. Pack a picnic or go back-country hiking or just climb through the Indian cliff dwelligs. Frijoles canyon is one of the prettiest in the state. Abueque Dam- Our favorite place to camp and swim. New Mexico State Fair- Best of the 50 states! (and yes I have been to many great state fairs) Roswell- aliens, area 51- need I say more. Chaco Canyon- Perhaps the most famous indian ancient ruins Elephant Butte- great for camping and boating Ghost Ranch- Fantastic hiking trails and drop dead vista The Balloon Fiesta (in Oct.) - 900+ hot air balloons goingup all at once at the Abq. balloon fairgrounds |
Can't Miss Places to go in Santa Fe-
International Folk Art Museum/ Indian Museum 10,000 Waves- we love this spa and hotel. Absolute best hot tubs under the stars Shidoni Bronze Foundry- One of the few foundrys that can make large bronzes. It is a wonderful drive to the park with a gallery and outdoor sculpture garden. Pack a lunch. Jackalope- A real symphony of cultural shopping on Cerrillos Rd. Have to see it to believe it. The kids will love the barnyard and the prairie dogs. You will love all the inexpensive stuff, from furniture to jewelry. Learn to blow glass and watch native craftsmen. Santa Fe Opera Santa Fe symphony Santa Fe Railway- Just $7.00 each way from Abq. to Santa Fe! Georgia O'Keeffe museum |
Albequerque hotel-
Hard Rock Cafe Santa Fe Hotel- The Lodge Luxury Santa Fe hotel- Anasazi Inn The La Fonda |
Santa Fe Restaurants- I like to go native, although Santa Fe has all kinds of delicious cuisine. These are can't miss good!
fine dining- Santa Cafe (always tasteful) Geronimos- (Most popular chef at the moment) Cafe Martin (high tech fusion cuisine) Racho de San Juan (Beautiful custom menu) Coyote Cafe- (Modern S.W.) down home cooking- Pasquals (best breakfasts) Gabriels (best guac & great patio) Tia Sophia (sopapillas) Tune Up Cafe (unusual latin/New Mexican diner) The Shed (funky) Taos restaurant- Grahams Grill (dog friendly & Best food in Taos) 5 Star Burgers (USA voted best burgers in U.S.) |
Just a note- Avoid United Airlines if possible. We never used them before, and never will again!
savannah georgia
One of my families favorite cities. As far as things to do, well it hasn't really changed in decades. It is an antibellum haunted town with tons of tours, tours, and more tours. There is also tons of awsome food and there is the water but the reason we keep going back is not for the entertainment, although Savannah has hospitality to spare. It is the pace. Savannah feels like a favorite aunt. She always welcomes you with open arms and you can just relax and be yourself. Just walking around Savannah is joy enough and we always keep busy but hopfully some of these suggestions will help you make the most of your trip- it's a walking town so above all wear comfortable shoes!
restaurantsThis is what you really want to come for, the food, YUM! I have selected a unique range of style of cooking that I think are the best in town. In Savannah everyone has their favorite places equally yummy. Hopefully this will just give you a place to start.
LANDMARK EATS- Mrs. Wilkes Boarding House- No reservations and be prepared to wait in a line around the block. It's OK cause everyone does. It is part of the Savannah experience. Everyone has to say that they waited in line at Mrs. Wilkes.$$ Lady and Sons- family buffet made famous by Paula Deen. $$ Casbah Morrocan Restaurant- A true Morrocan experience complete with Belly Dancing.Great family place. $$ Cotton Exchange- Food is solid but average but the building makes it a unique experience and it is one of the most well known haunts in town.Appropriate for children. $$ The Old Pink House- Still the best fine dining in town in a truly elegant atmoshpere. $$$$ GOOD EATS- Seafoodlicious- authentic low boil $ Driftaway Cafe- seafood $ The Tybee Island Social Club- delicious breakfast and lunch food truck on Tybee Island. $ The Diner on Abercorn- A recreation of a 50's diner with classic diner cuisine. Fun for kids too. Open 24-7. $$ QUAINT CAFES & FUN BARS- Cafe Florie- vegetarian. $$ Starland Cafe- organic $$ Gryphon Tea Room- $$$ 700 Drayton- (brunch)-$$$ Maxwell's -wine bar and tapas $$$ Jen's and Friends Bar- $$ FINE DINING- 45 Bistro-American $$$ Circa 1875- French $$$$ Elizabeth's on 37th- Contemporary $$$ |
activitiesCivil War renactments at Fort Jackson- This is really fun for kids! You don't want to miss this.
Carriage Rides Ghost Tours by bus, trolley, carriage, or foot- Home Tours City Tours River Boat Excursions Historic Graveyard Tour Belly Dancing Girl Scouts Headquarters/ Juliette Lowe tours Haunted Pub Crawls Tybee Island Hilton Head- It is an easy side trip to Hilton Head. It makes a nice day trip. lodgingSavannah Bed and Breakfast- Our favorite and the best priced authentic B&B in Savannah.$
Hyatt Riverfront Hotel- Right on the waterfront in the thick of the action- $ Forsyth Park Inn- Just beautiful gardens and a stately painted lady.- $ Eliza Thompson House- A classic Savannah home.-$ |
People to people
My daughter was nominated to participate in the People to People Ambassador program in middle school. Off she went to Europe for 3 weeks to climb mountains, swim in the medeterranian, visit ruins, work in a fruit co-op and visit school children in the hills of Italy and seeing sites she had only read about. For the price and the reputation, I found this program very solid. Click on the photo to learn more.
all things Florida
Disney Destination Tips
click here to go to Disney site
Since we have lived in Florida for almost 20 years, I guess that makes my family pretty Disney savvy. Well at the very least we have done Disney about everyway imaginable- on a budget, special events, volunteering to earn free admission, camping, cabins, resident discounts, time share freebies, scouting days, group trips, luxury resorts and discount hotels. One day, 4 day, park hopper- you name it. Along the way my family has picked up some tips.
1. Get in the single rider line. That's right, even if you are with your family. It's like the fast pass without the time limit. You probably will get on the ride at the same time (maybe not). On really crowded days it can save hours!
2.If you are staying at the hotels your shopping items can be delivered to your room. No carrying around bulky shopping items!
3.Animal Kingdom Lodge is my families personnal favorite deluxe accomodation. They have the most activities and great restaurants. Remember to ask for a room with a view of the animals. If you want to save money the parking lot view is less expensive for the same rooms. Remember that you can explore any hotel and take advantage of each ones special activities and unique themes and restaurants. This is how we always decide if we are going to stay
4. You really do save alot of money with the food packages.
5. You can book a reservation at the Hoop De Doo Review even if you aren't going to the park. It's great for B-day parties.
6. Run to the water rides first or last in the summer. They fill up first and the lines are wicked long
7. Forget the park hoppers, unless your planning on staying a week or more. If you want to save money- stay for 2 days (one night). One day at a park and one day just tooling around the park and exploring all the free stuff. You can take part in any activity throughout the resort, boat rides, any hotel activities, animal park, nature walks, beaches, pools, outdoor movies, etc. for free. It is so much fun, one time we decided not to go to a park at all.
8. Make sure you plan your park traveling to coordinate with your dining. It is really difficult to make reservations at the park. It takes practice since you don't know how long your going to wait in line and it takes time to walk or ride to restaurants. 20 years and we still can't seem to make that Polynesion Lua dinner.
9. Larger families your best deal is the campgrounds- The cabins are a great deal, fully stocked and Disney luxury, camping in tents or in a camper even better. You can rent a tent form disney. They are very big and roomy. They even set them up for you and the facilities are Disney nice, showers, laundry, grocery store, etc. You also have the added benefit of being right in the middle of some really cool free family activities- Boat light show, nature walks, petting zoo, volleyball, outdoor movie night, and one of the best pools in the park (actually there are several pools, so go exploring).
10. Know your Disney World parks-
Epcot- Great for all ages from 1 to 91. Our personal fav. Great for those that do not like rides. Not that they don't have rides but most of them are not gut-busters. It's a big circle so expect to walk long ways from A to B
Hollywood Studios- Small park. Easy to do in a day and good for all ages. Actually we usually avoid this one with a few exceptions- Christmas (gotta see it) and Star Wars week- extremely, extremely crowded but soooo nerdy cool. Little children will be bored at this park.
Disney theme park- Classic family fun. Great for the 8 year old set. Lucky if you get through in 1 day.
Animal Kingdom- Good small park. Easy day trip and usually is not too crowded. We love their daytime jungle themed parade. The park is a photographers dream. It is the park with the best shade. I know that sounds silly but then you have obviously never been to Disney World in the summer.
Disney water Parks- Blizzard beach is for the younger crowd but both are a refreshing day.
Disney Quest- An indoor virtual park in Downtown Disney with video games and virtual rides.
11. Booking Disney Vacations on-line can be frustrating and it is easy to miss special deals. Calling for help on the phone is easier, quicker, and your rep. can give you inside tips. I use the on-line service to get a general idea what I want but then rely on my phone call for any final decisions. I have yet to put together a package on-line that the rep. can't do me one better.
12. It has been measured that 80% of your Disney experience is waiting for your Disney experience. With a few short tricks you lower that time conciderably.
A. If you have a child in a stroller you are one lucky duck. You can be escorted to the ride while your spouse waits with the stroller and then you switch off and your spouse goes. It's the best pass in the park.
B. Try not to back track through the park for any reason. This takes mapping and planning ahead but it will save you hours in travel time.
C. Shop on the way out of the park, particularly easy at Disney theme park, Stopping all day long to look at tourist items is a time cruncher.
D. Eat where you play. (remember the no backtrack rule).
E. Shows- plan your travel time around the show times, since they are limited.
F. One day in- one day out- If you are staying at Disney World for more than one day, give yourself one day between parks outside the parks. There are plenty of other activities that are difficult to get to without cutting into your park time.
G. Just because check-in is at 3:00 pm doesn't mean you can't show up much earlier. We go to our first park when it opens at say, 8:00 am. The hotel will hold your luggage, and then we don't have to pay for an extra evening. If you have come a long way and need to freshen up then this may not work for you.
H. FAST PASSES ARE GREAT BUT DON'T FORGET ABOUT THE SINGLE LINE.
1. Get in the single rider line. That's right, even if you are with your family. It's like the fast pass without the time limit. You probably will get on the ride at the same time (maybe not). On really crowded days it can save hours!
2.If you are staying at the hotels your shopping items can be delivered to your room. No carrying around bulky shopping items!
3.Animal Kingdom Lodge is my families personnal favorite deluxe accomodation. They have the most activities and great restaurants. Remember to ask for a room with a view of the animals. If you want to save money the parking lot view is less expensive for the same rooms. Remember that you can explore any hotel and take advantage of each ones special activities and unique themes and restaurants. This is how we always decide if we are going to stay
4. You really do save alot of money with the food packages.
5. You can book a reservation at the Hoop De Doo Review even if you aren't going to the park. It's great for B-day parties.
6. Run to the water rides first or last in the summer. They fill up first and the lines are wicked long
7. Forget the park hoppers, unless your planning on staying a week or more. If you want to save money- stay for 2 days (one night). One day at a park and one day just tooling around the park and exploring all the free stuff. You can take part in any activity throughout the resort, boat rides, any hotel activities, animal park, nature walks, beaches, pools, outdoor movies, etc. for free. It is so much fun, one time we decided not to go to a park at all.
8. Make sure you plan your park traveling to coordinate with your dining. It is really difficult to make reservations at the park. It takes practice since you don't know how long your going to wait in line and it takes time to walk or ride to restaurants. 20 years and we still can't seem to make that Polynesion Lua dinner.
9. Larger families your best deal is the campgrounds- The cabins are a great deal, fully stocked and Disney luxury, camping in tents or in a camper even better. You can rent a tent form disney. They are very big and roomy. They even set them up for you and the facilities are Disney nice, showers, laundry, grocery store, etc. You also have the added benefit of being right in the middle of some really cool free family activities- Boat light show, nature walks, petting zoo, volleyball, outdoor movie night, and one of the best pools in the park (actually there are several pools, so go exploring).
10. Know your Disney World parks-
Epcot- Great for all ages from 1 to 91. Our personal fav. Great for those that do not like rides. Not that they don't have rides but most of them are not gut-busters. It's a big circle so expect to walk long ways from A to B
Hollywood Studios- Small park. Easy to do in a day and good for all ages. Actually we usually avoid this one with a few exceptions- Christmas (gotta see it) and Star Wars week- extremely, extremely crowded but soooo nerdy cool. Little children will be bored at this park.
Disney theme park- Classic family fun. Great for the 8 year old set. Lucky if you get through in 1 day.
Animal Kingdom- Good small park. Easy day trip and usually is not too crowded. We love their daytime jungle themed parade. The park is a photographers dream. It is the park with the best shade. I know that sounds silly but then you have obviously never been to Disney World in the summer.
Disney water Parks- Blizzard beach is for the younger crowd but both are a refreshing day.
Disney Quest- An indoor virtual park in Downtown Disney with video games and virtual rides.
11. Booking Disney Vacations on-line can be frustrating and it is easy to miss special deals. Calling for help on the phone is easier, quicker, and your rep. can give you inside tips. I use the on-line service to get a general idea what I want but then rely on my phone call for any final decisions. I have yet to put together a package on-line that the rep. can't do me one better.
12. It has been measured that 80% of your Disney experience is waiting for your Disney experience. With a few short tricks you lower that time conciderably.
A. If you have a child in a stroller you are one lucky duck. You can be escorted to the ride while your spouse waits with the stroller and then you switch off and your spouse goes. It's the best pass in the park.
B. Try not to back track through the park for any reason. This takes mapping and planning ahead but it will save you hours in travel time.
C. Shop on the way out of the park, particularly easy at Disney theme park, Stopping all day long to look at tourist items is a time cruncher.
D. Eat where you play. (remember the no backtrack rule).
E. Shows- plan your travel time around the show times, since they are limited.
F. One day in- one day out- If you are staying at Disney World for more than one day, give yourself one day between parks outside the parks. There are plenty of other activities that are difficult to get to without cutting into your park time.
G. Just because check-in is at 3:00 pm doesn't mean you can't show up much earlier. We go to our first park when it opens at say, 8:00 am. The hotel will hold your luggage, and then we don't have to pay for an extra evening. If you have come a long way and need to freshen up then this may not work for you.
H. FAST PASSES ARE GREAT BUT DON'T FORGET ABOUT THE SINGLE LINE.
Disney veggie burgers with fried green tomatoes and roumalade sauce
Ingredients:
• 2 cups dried navy beans (4 cups cooked)
• 1/4 cup soybeans
• 1/4 cup shredded carrots
• 1/3 cup cornmeal
• 1 cup finely diced white onion
• 1/4 cup frozen corn
• 1 1/4 cups shredded potatoes
• 2 tablespoons chopped parsley
• 1 teaspoon coarse salt
• 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
• 1 tablespoon Sriracha sauce
• 2 egg whites
• 3/4 cup canola oil, divided
• Cornstarch, for dusting
Fried Green Tomatoes:Combine all ingredients in food processor or blender. Refrigerate in airtight container.
• 1 large green tomato
• 1/4 cup plain yogurt
• 1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
• 1 teaspoon dried minced garlic
1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 2 tablespoons chili powder
• 1 cup cornmeal
• 1/2 cup canola oil, divided, for frying tomatoes
• Coarse salt, to taste
Creole Remoulade Sauce
• 1 cup mayonnaise
• 1/4 small red onion, chopped
• 1/2 teaspoon paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon favorite Cajun spice
• 2 tablespoons ketchup
• 1/2 small lemon, juiced
• 1 tablespoon finely chopped parsley
• 1 tablespoon chopped chives
For serving
• 8 brioche rolls
• 8 slices pepper jack cheese
For vegetable burgers:
1. Cover navy beans with water in a pot and soak overnight. Drain and wash beans; cover with water
and cook until tender.
2. Place soybeans and carrots in a heat-proof container; pour boiling water over vegetables and steep for 2 minutes. Drain,
cool, and set aside.
3. Place cooked navy beans in food processor, reserving 1 1/4 cup. Puree until smooth. Add cornmeal and pulse until well
mixed. Remove from food processor and place in a large bowl.
4. Add onion, corn, potatoes, parsley, soybeans, carrots, salt, pepper, and Sriracha, mixing well.
5. Fold in reserved navy beans and egg whites.
6. Divide evenly into 8 patties.
7. Heat 1/2 cup oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering. Lightly dust patties with cornstarch and fry in batches until golden, about 5 minutes per side, adding more oil as needed.Lightly flatten patties with spatula when turning. Drain on paper towels and serve hot.
For fried green tomatoes:
1. Slice tomato into 8 slices, about 1/4-inch thick. Place in a glass baking dish and cover with yogurt. Refrigerate for 45 minutes.
2. Combine pepper, garlic, cumin, chili powder, and cornmeal in a small bowl, mixing well.
3. Heat 1/4 cup oil in a large skillet over high heat.
4. Remove tomatoes from yogurt and dredge in cornmeal. Fry in batches in hot oil until golden brown, adding oil as needed. Drain on paper towels, season with salt, and keep warm.
For Creole Remoulade sauce:Combine all ingredients in food processor or blender. Refrigerate in airtight container.
To serve:
Stack burger, slice of pepper jack cheese, slice of fried green tomato, and 2 tablespoons remoulade on a toasted brioche roll. Serve
hot.
• 2 cups dried navy beans (4 cups cooked)
• 1/4 cup soybeans
• 1/4 cup shredded carrots
• 1/3 cup cornmeal
• 1 cup finely diced white onion
• 1/4 cup frozen corn
• 1 1/4 cups shredded potatoes
• 2 tablespoons chopped parsley
• 1 teaspoon coarse salt
• 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
• 1 tablespoon Sriracha sauce
• 2 egg whites
• 3/4 cup canola oil, divided
• Cornstarch, for dusting
Fried Green Tomatoes:Combine all ingredients in food processor or blender. Refrigerate in airtight container.
• 1 large green tomato
• 1/4 cup plain yogurt
• 1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
• 1 teaspoon dried minced garlic
1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 2 tablespoons chili powder
• 1 cup cornmeal
• 1/2 cup canola oil, divided, for frying tomatoes
• Coarse salt, to taste
Creole Remoulade Sauce
• 1 cup mayonnaise
• 1/4 small red onion, chopped
• 1/2 teaspoon paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon favorite Cajun spice
• 2 tablespoons ketchup
• 1/2 small lemon, juiced
• 1 tablespoon finely chopped parsley
• 1 tablespoon chopped chives
For serving
• 8 brioche rolls
• 8 slices pepper jack cheese
For vegetable burgers:
1. Cover navy beans with water in a pot and soak overnight. Drain and wash beans; cover with water
and cook until tender.
2. Place soybeans and carrots in a heat-proof container; pour boiling water over vegetables and steep for 2 minutes. Drain,
cool, and set aside.
3. Place cooked navy beans in food processor, reserving 1 1/4 cup. Puree until smooth. Add cornmeal and pulse until well
mixed. Remove from food processor and place in a large bowl.
4. Add onion, corn, potatoes, parsley, soybeans, carrots, salt, pepper, and Sriracha, mixing well.
5. Fold in reserved navy beans and egg whites.
6. Divide evenly into 8 patties.
7. Heat 1/2 cup oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering. Lightly dust patties with cornstarch and fry in batches until golden, about 5 minutes per side, adding more oil as needed.Lightly flatten patties with spatula when turning. Drain on paper towels and serve hot.
For fried green tomatoes:
1. Slice tomato into 8 slices, about 1/4-inch thick. Place in a glass baking dish and cover with yogurt. Refrigerate for 45 minutes.
2. Combine pepper, garlic, cumin, chili powder, and cornmeal in a small bowl, mixing well.
3. Heat 1/4 cup oil in a large skillet over high heat.
4. Remove tomatoes from yogurt and dredge in cornmeal. Fry in batches in hot oil until golden brown, adding oil as needed. Drain on paper towels, season with salt, and keep warm.
For Creole Remoulade sauce:Combine all ingredients in food processor or blender. Refrigerate in airtight container.
To serve:
Stack burger, slice of pepper jack cheese, slice of fried green tomato, and 2 tablespoons remoulade on a toasted brioche roll. Serve
hot.
Dining at disney world
This is by no means a complete dining list and it is not all the places I have eaten at Disney. It took us 3 years to get a reservation at California Grill and we are still trying for Todd's Bluezoo and Cat's chef's table so I know they are excellent. Some of my favorites on these lists are for atmosphere and some more for the food. The restaurant with the asterisks are what we have found to be some of the best food but all the restaurants below are worthy to eat at. Please buy a food plan. I don't always find Disney packages the best deals but when it comes to dining, oh yeah, the dining plans are worth it.
Character Dining1900 Park Fare $$
Crystal Palace $$ Akershus Royal Dining Hall-Princess dining $$ |
Dinner & a showHoop De Do Revue- you can book reservations
without staying at Disney. Great for birthday parties. $$ Spirit of Aloha Show- Limited shows and far away from all parks accept Disney theme park so book carefully $$$ Fulton's Crab House/ Circe de Soliel- turn your dinner at Fultons into dinner and a show by seeing Circe de Soliel afterwards $$$$ |
casual dining*Coral Reef- underwater dining. Ask for a seat with a viewing window. $$$
*Wolfgang Puck Cafe- Great Cali. style cuisine and convenient location. $$$ Restaurant Marrakesh-belly dancing $$$ Sci-Fi Dine-In Theatre- sci-fi movies at your car table. It's like going to a drive-in $$ Rainforest Cafe- a jungle $$ T-Rex Dinosaur Cafe- a prehistoric jungle $$ *Whispering Canyon Cafe- get your breakfast tossed at you from across the room! $$ |
fine dining**Our Fav- California grill- great view for the evening fireworks so book accordingly. Awesome food! $$$$
*Artist Pointe- great flights of wine $$$ Bistro de Paris- classic french $$$ *Jiko- warm atmosphere and tandoori $$$ The Wave- health food. Many people don't know about this restaurant. It is a great place for people with food issues. $$$ *Teppan Edo- beni hana style and sushi $$$ Fulton's Crab House- seafood on a steam boat $$$ |
other florida parks and destinations
Universal / Harry Potter- Definately a park for those that like big thrills. A great Teen Park and a wild time during Halloween. Be prepared for long lines at all the Harry Potter rides.
Islands of Adventure- Universal's answer to Epcot, a more fun for the whole family kind of place.
Sea World- An easy park for a day trip. Good shows and expect to get wet at the dolphin and whale shows.
Busch Gardens- Probably the best value park. It was our favorite munchies park but since the buy out the food has become ordinary. Great photo opportunities and some of the best roller coasters in Florida.
Adventure Island- Best water park on the west coast of Fl. and the added benefit of being right across the street from Busch Gardens. Good for all ages. 2 day pass combo for the water park and Busch is the best deal. If your local you have to go for the fun pass.
Legoland- new park (not reviewed)
Babcock Wilderness- Swamp buggies, wild turkeys and pigs and gator burgers what more could you ask. Real central Florida.
Kennedy Space Center- This is a full day trip and then some. Learn about all things NASA. They have cool sleepovers as well.
Mosi-Take an actual (virtual) space shuttle to Mars or be part of the mission control. This is an extremely fun science center in Tampa.
Theatre of the Sea- Best swim with the Dolphins experience in Florida. They have been around a long time, a real piece of old Florida in Key Largo.
Key West- O.K. it's a town but it is also an experience. Not a town for small kids.
St Augustine- A good stop over if your passing through. The kids will love the fort and the light house is fun.
Wet and Wild- Best water park on the east coast of Florida.
Silver Springs and Crystal Springs- serine beautiful Florida. Great for any age if your looking for some "chill" Home of Manatees, gators, and wild razorbacks. A must for photographers
Everglades Swamp Tours- Lots of gators water and air boat rides. You can even do platform camping but remember to bring your mosquito netting!
Florida Wildlife Corridor- An uninterupted wildlife corridor from southern Georgia to the tip of Florida.
Islands of Adventure- Universal's answer to Epcot, a more fun for the whole family kind of place.
Sea World- An easy park for a day trip. Good shows and expect to get wet at the dolphin and whale shows.
Busch Gardens- Probably the best value park. It was our favorite munchies park but since the buy out the food has become ordinary. Great photo opportunities and some of the best roller coasters in Florida.
Adventure Island- Best water park on the west coast of Fl. and the added benefit of being right across the street from Busch Gardens. Good for all ages. 2 day pass combo for the water park and Busch is the best deal. If your local you have to go for the fun pass.
Legoland- new park (not reviewed)
Babcock Wilderness- Swamp buggies, wild turkeys and pigs and gator burgers what more could you ask. Real central Florida.
Kennedy Space Center- This is a full day trip and then some. Learn about all things NASA. They have cool sleepovers as well.
Mosi-Take an actual (virtual) space shuttle to Mars or be part of the mission control. This is an extremely fun science center in Tampa.
Theatre of the Sea- Best swim with the Dolphins experience in Florida. They have been around a long time, a real piece of old Florida in Key Largo.
Key West- O.K. it's a town but it is also an experience. Not a town for small kids.
St Augustine- A good stop over if your passing through. The kids will love the fort and the light house is fun.
Wet and Wild- Best water park on the east coast of Florida.
Silver Springs and Crystal Springs- serine beautiful Florida. Great for any age if your looking for some "chill" Home of Manatees, gators, and wild razorbacks. A must for photographers
Everglades Swamp Tours- Lots of gators water and air boat rides. You can even do platform camping but remember to bring your mosquito netting!
Florida Wildlife Corridor- An uninterupted wildlife corridor from southern Georgia to the tip of Florida.
caribbean Cruises
I live in Florida and boy do we know cruises. Cruising is a passtime in Florida. I have organized group cruises, been part of them, and chaperoned them and this is my take on a few. My favorite cruise to date is to Belize. I am just in love with the entire country and it's people. We went tubing in the underground caves and cliff diving and they have some of the best diving in the carabbean. I personally am fond of 3 day cruises, 5 days is stretching the endulgeance, and longer than that and sloth and I become close friends. Just a note, try booking excursions on shore, not on the ships. Not only do they charge lots more but because of liability they are usually not as exciting. Example- with a local tour co. we went 9 miles into the caves and cliff dove, the same company took the ship booked group. They paid 2 and a half more for 3 miles of caves and no cliff diving. Do your research on-line and you can find reputable tour companies to book with. Be careful of hawkers that troll the docks, they may be good ( we had luck with a tour guide in Cozumel) or they may be out to rip you off, or worse.
Disney- Expensive and everything you expect from Disney-Top notch but you pay big for big family fun. They have a great private Island. I also love the Cape Canaveral port, by far the easiest to board and the friendliest. If you cruise alot and go to the parks it is worth it to get on their rewards program.
Carnival- Good price, total party bus. Adult fun all night long. If you are planning to sponsor or organize a group cruise, they are not very accomodating.
Royal Caribbean- Good price, great rewards program, classy all the way. They have a nice teen program. They are geared towards group events and are very helpful. They also have conference rooms specifically for group events. They also have the largest cabins. They have a very laid back private island. I am not so fond of the Tampa Port but Ft Lauderdale is nice, and they also go out of my favorite Cape Canaveral.
Disney- Expensive and everything you expect from Disney-Top notch but you pay big for big family fun. They have a great private Island. I also love the Cape Canaveral port, by far the easiest to board and the friendliest. If you cruise alot and go to the parks it is worth it to get on their rewards program.
Carnival- Good price, total party bus. Adult fun all night long. If you are planning to sponsor or organize a group cruise, they are not very accomodating.
Royal Caribbean- Good price, great rewards program, classy all the way. They have a nice teen program. They are geared towards group events and are very helpful. They also have conference rooms specifically for group events. They also have the largest cabins. They have a very laid back private island. I am not so fond of the Tampa Port but Ft Lauderdale is nice, and they also go out of my favorite Cape Canaveral.
dirtopia.com
A wonderful site for the adventurous travelor.