Additionally, some of these drinks aren’t at all hard to make and sample, however strange they may seem.

Lemonade – Britain

Victorian recipe books record numerous (and often strange) ways of making the perfect lemonade, which was usually consumed in the garden accompanied by a reserved game of bridge – some recipes even involve leaving overnight and straining through muslin (in layman’s terms, the thin material often used to make curtains and wedding dresses alike). A general consensus reached by most is to include some of the bitter rind into the recipe somewhere along the line for taste.

Polish Rhubarb Honey – Poland

As you might have guessed from the title, this popular Polish summer drink is extremely refreshing with the sourness of the rhubarb contrasting with the sweetness of the honey all poured over ice. It tastes a little bit like cranberry juice and is probably a little bit healthier than the Lemonade because of the addition of honey.

Limoncello – Italy

Before the seasoned Starbucks fan inquires, the Frappuccino is merely a product of the vivid imaginations of corporate fat cats who wanted to find a way to keep coffee sales high in the summer and is no more Italian than the Yeti. But Limoncello, thankfully, is. It’s simply an Italian lemon liqueur made from sugar, lemons, water and pure alcohol and is frequently drunk cold after meal times to aid digestion.

Strawberry Bowle – Germany

It’s called “Bowle” because it’s served from a large glass bowl in the manner of Punch. Made with Brandy, Champagne, Dry White Wine, and Strawberries, it’s said to be quite a good mix. It should be served in a wide, flat glass with a bit of fruit in the manner of a martini. It’s deceptively light while actually very alcoholic.

La Terre Rouge– France

A simple Red French table wine, ideal for picnics and for just about anything, comes from a blend merlot, grenache, and carignan grapes from different regions of Southern France to at varying altitudes and temperatures to really give the wine some substance.

Sangria – Spain

Sangria is a wine punch consumed all over Spain during the sweltering summers. There are many different variants and recipes of the famous drink, but most include red wine, lemonade, and fruit. Many modern varieties contain shots of Bacardi or Vodka, or vast amounts of ice and 7-up to weaken it accordingly, which may be wise if some of the drinkers are a little youthful and inexperienced. It’s so popular in Spain that it can even be bought bottled, but that detracts from the fun of making it yourself and serving it with the authentic bits of fruit floating around in it.

Photo of refreshing drinks by Mickael Dietch

You walk into a local supermarket and want to buy some items that are particular to the place. What’s unique to a Portuguese market? For starters-freshness. Portugal produces primarily for itself and a few European neighbors. Agriculture accounts for the highest percentage of GDP compared to the other countries in this pocket of Western Europe. What does this mean for you? Fresh and local products that are not mass-produced. Go to the supermarket in the morning and then again in the evening and notice the depleted stock of produce and baked goods over the course of the day. Stocks are replenished on a daily basis, assuring you that almost anything you buy is fresh off the farm or the factory. So go explore your local grocery store and check this list to pick up some of the local favorites while you’re in town. (None of which require cooking!)

1. Broa de milho

Cornbread, to put it simply. Dough prepared with corn flour instead of wheat flour produces a hearty but very flavorful bread that goes lovely with either honey or the doce de abóbora. Delicious for breakfast when lightly toasted.

2. Mel

Not unique to Portugal in and of itself, but the honey here seems to have a sweet sticky goodness to it that you just don’t find anywhere. Local honeycombs produce both plain honey (mel), honey with royal jelly (it’s really good for you) and special varieties with things like rosemary and that subsequently get packaged up in beautiful jars…they make for great gifts!

3. Doce de abóbora

Pumpkin jam. The Portuguese love using pumpkin in their cooking. Find it cut into big chunks in the produce isle (the pumpkin itself is too big to sell whole) or in soups and jams. The jams (they call it doce) often have a hint of cinnamon or even walnuts mixed in. These also make for the perfect souvenir.

4. Pão com choriço

Bread with sausage… but not just any bread with sausage. This greasy, sliced choriço is actually baked into the bread so that when you bite into this self-contained sandwich your taste buds find the sausage hiding on the inside. Best when you get it fresh and hot from the bakery. Perfect to pack up and include in a picnic.

5. Tremoços

You see them served as a snack at the local bar usually accompanying beer. Yellow, bean like looking things that translate in English to lupin beans. My preference is to bite off the slightly courser outer skin and relish the bean on the inside. They are packed full range of amino acids. Dating back to Roman times, these beans have stood the test of time!

6. Seasonal fruit

Loquats-nesperos (spring/summer) this delicious fruit is a perfect snack to take on a picnic. Orange on the outside with large brown seeds on the inside, slightly sweet with a hint of tanginess. Nesperos are only found in countries with a Mediterranean climate.

Come mid-summer for a few sacred weeks, figs (figos) are available in local produce shops. Green, delicate tear-drop shaped fruits are the talk of the town among locals who stock up on as much as they can, knowing in a few short weeks they will have to wait until the following year to savor some more.

7. Vinho Verde

This list wouldn’t be complete without wine! I recommend a vinho verde (literally green wine) by Casal de Garcia. It’s produced when that little grape is still young, lending to a very subtle effervescence in the wine. Light and fresh, and of course, local, you can’t leave Portugal without sipping a bit of vinho verde. Once they figure out how to export this stuff, it will be rolling off the tongues of the yuppies in London and soccer moms in Los Angeles. When bought from the grocery store this brand should only cost you a mere three euros.

I’m keeping this list short and sweet considering most of you will probably only be stopping in for a few days. These items are within reach to any traveler and still leave you with room in your wallet and tummy to sample everything the local bakeries and seafood restaurants have to entice you with!

Photo of market stall in Madeira, Portugal by Taboada Testa

The largest city in southwestern France is also famous on a global scale for being part of the most renowned wine producing region in the world. Despite the fact that the city appears to be void of significant urban design and plans, this oftentimes goes unnoticed because of the spectacular countryside surrounding the city.

Vacationing in Bordeaux should never be a disappointment, especially if you travel there to visit the numerous vineyards and sample the rich red wines that the region is famous for. Not only is the surrounding countryside some of the most beautiful in all of France and Western Europe, you will not have a problem choosing comfortable accommodations and enjoying the different nightlife venues that this populous city has to offer.

In addition to touring the many vineyards, visiting the numerous wineries, and sampling some of the most delicious wines available anywhere in the world, you can also find a number of true wine bars in Bordeaux to experience. Typically, the ones that are geared to the slightly older less “techno” oriented crowds are the ones where you can enjoy relaxed dining as well as your favorite red wine produced locally. The following is a listing of the best wine bars in Bordeaux.

Le Wine Bar

The décor in this establishment is most accurately described using three words – comfortable, simple, and warm. The quieter atmosphere allows you to forget that you are in the busiest city in southwestern France as you relax and enjoy a variety of locally produced red wines.

Le Blueberry

Despite being a smaller venue compared to most in the city, you will not be disappointed if you choose to enter this establishment that is well-known for its wine assortment. Additionally, you will find a wide array of wine cocktails to choose from as well. The atmosphere is serene and the piped-in music is soothing.

Grand Bar Castan

A combination of a tasteful décor and an ideal location make this establishment one that you shouldn’t miss while visiting Bordeaux. It is one of the oldest cafes in France and the wine bar is a recently added amenity. The atmosphere is relatively quiet and the garden terrace provides you with just the relaxation you are looking for after a busy day touring the city.

Annexe

One of the more popular wine bars/restaurants  in Bordeaux. You can enjoy dining inside or on the terrace over looking the river that meanders through the heart of the city. If the weather keeps you indoors, the wine bar is warm and relaxing, and the menu is sure to please.

Photo of bottles of red wine, Bordeaux, France by filtran

1. From Italian to independence then to French

The Romans landed in Corsica during their illustrious reign and soon took over. The dialogue wasn’t the only thing that soon led to an Italian way of life. But it followed disputes from rivalling republics after the Roman Empire collapsed and resulted in almost all of the Middle Ages being under the Republic of Genoa. In 1729 Corsicans held a revolution and independence was granted finally in 1755. It was a sovereign state for a little while but the France came over in 1764 and bought Corsica on the quiet. After that it became French even though many Corsicans feel staunchly independent today.

2. Weird weather

Due to being a mountainous island, Corsica has a few different microclimates. The highest peaks range up to 2,700 metres (Monte Cinto) so the weather is snowy, windy and cold and there are no inhabitants up that high. Then there are a numbers of towns and villages below this, up until 610 metres above sea level, where the cooler and wetter weather has given birth to dense forests, more like Germany and Denmark. Finally there’s a much more Mediterranean feel at sea level, where it’s hot and dry summers and milder winters.

3. Best beaches (not) in France

As an island it makes perfect sense for there to be an abundance of great beaches on Corsica. There are beautiful long and sandy beaches on the island, both popular with sunbathers, swimmers and water sports fans. One of the very best is Calvi beach, on the north western side of the island. With miles and miles of soft white sand and water shallow and warm enough for all the family to spend all day there, it’s one of the best places for a summer holiday in the whole Med.

4. Napoleon

The great man himself Napoleon Bonaparte was born in the small west coastal town of Ajaccio in 1769. He came along literally a matter of years after the Genoese signed the island over the French. He was of Italian noble stock but changed his name slightly to make it sound more French. His family’s wealth and stature meant he was granted a more reputable education than Corsican schools could provide, and at the age of nine, young Napoleon was packed off to military school near Troyes in northern France.

5. Grapes over a 3000 years old…but no ones knows about it.

Vineyards have an unrivalled history on Corsica. The climate is simply perfect for making wine on the île de beauté. What’s strange though is that, even though it’s such a deep-rooted part of the island’s history, and the wine is some of the best in the whole of Europe, very few bottles ever make it off the island. It’s mostly red and mostly made from the niellucciu and sciaccarellu grapes, but it largely remains an enigma. If you ever see one in the shops then be sure to snap it up straight away.

Photo of Corsican flag by keyboardsamurai

• Merano Wine Festival, Italy

Like Italian food? Be sure to check out the Merano Wine Festival. The website, Cellar Tours reports that the festival ahs been around since 1992 and hosts a variety of wine producers from locations such as Italy, France, Austria, Spain, Portugal, and the U.S. In addition to wine, there is an endless array of delicious local cuisine to try such as real Blue cheese manufactured form Buffalo milk, capers, olives, Chocolate with Brunello wine, Lardo, and extra virgin olive oil. The festival partners with the Truffle Auction which is an affair where the best truffles all over the region are auctioned off to the highest bidders.

• La Pourcailhade in Trie-sur-Baise, France

If you love all things pig, a must-do festival to see is in Trie-sur-Baise, France called, “La Pourcailhade,” or “Festival of the Pig.”

The festival takes place yearly every second Sunday in August in honor of the pig and is held by a group called “The Brotherhood of the Pig“.

They have sausage eating contests, pig outfit competitions, piggy races, and pig-calling contests. You can stroll through the festival and see displays everywhere in shop windows. Be sure to check out The Piglet Race where many of the smallest pigs race each other to a heart-stopping finish. You can also watch The Black Pudding Eating contest where people wage in a contest of eating a delicacy in the foodie world; congealed pork blood and various other ingredients.

• Maifest, Germany

If you love Oktoberfest, but don’t want to wait till Oktoberfest to enjoy a good foodie festival in Germany, you’re in luck! According to the website, all across Germany in May come Maifest which is a festival devoted to the end of winter and the ushering ion of Spring. You can try many delicacies like Maiwein (may wine), beer, cheeses, authentic baked goods, and many other authentic treats. In various small towns across Germany, you can also see a Maibaum or maypole. It’s also a great festival to take the kids too as they can participate in the maypole or help plant seedlings to usher in spring. Be sure to buy them a chocolate Maikafur or may beetle for good luck.

• Nantwich Food Festival, UK

If you are going to be in Nantwich, in Cheshire, Wales, you don’t want to miss the Nantwich Food Festival. This three-day festival celebrates the best of what the area has to offer. You can attend cooking demonstrations, various tastings including wine, beer, and olive oil tastings, a workshop that is entirely devoted to the making of the perfect cocktail. In this particular festival, it is also focused on the best of local ingredients to showcase their commitment to the green movement as well. There is also a workshop features all kinds of baked goods and goodies and if you are bringing children, they have their own workshop.

This festival is always a favorite because it is in the foodie heaven town of Nantwich. There are all kinds of food markets and shops to visit while you are there, in addition to the festival as there is always something going on in Nantwich.

The town of Nantwich is located on the Manchester/Crewe/Shrewsberry/Cardiff railway lines. If you are going there by car, get off at the M6 and follow the Junction 16 to the A500 west district of Nantwich. There are many places to park for the festival. These include Barony Park CWS 5QY which is only open on Saturday. There is also Malbank High School, open on Sat. and Sundays.

• Ludlow Marches Food and Wine Festival, UK

The U.K. has a really cool festival every 12-14 of September in Ludlow which also happens to be one of its first. It’s the Ludlow Marches Food and Wine Festival and has been going on for 14 years.

If you are a fan of the Slow food movement, one that focuses on good food, one that focuses on rare and even endangered dishes, this festival is the one for you. They rely on the efforts of local markets and growers, while rejecting the mainstream food producers. The event will be held on Fri., Sat., and Sun., Sept. 11-13 in Ludlow, Shropshire, U.K. and features the best dishes the area has to offer. The festival also houses many independent food producers from all over the area where you can sample great offerings like regional wines, breads, sausages, and ales.

The castle is open Fri. Sept. 12 from 10 a.m.-5 p.m., Sat. Sept. 13th from 10 a.m.-6:30 p.m., and Sun. from 10 a.m.-5 p.m. The last admission for all days is 30 minutes before the doors close. It is 7.00 for adults and 1.50 for children. For a family of two adults and up to four children, it is 16.50. Concessions and groups are only allowed in on Friday and they are both 5.00.

You can get there by rail on the Manchester-Crewe-Cardiff line or from London Paddington to Newport or Hereford. You can also take one of their bus services from Birmingham, Shrewsberry, Kidderminister, or Hereford. If driving there, take the A49 road from Warrington M6 which is located near Shrewberry and Hereford to Ross-on-Wye. You can also take advantage of the Park & Ride option which are located in the north and south end of the center of town. It cost 1 to ride and includes both ways to and from. Children can ride for free.

Photo of Italian pasta by Frank BB

Definitely the rolling green forests, the starkly austere black volcanic rocks, the clearest blue ocean, exotic flowers and rare birds all make this an enchanting island straight out of some mythical story. While all these remain only in your memory, and in your photos, after you leave the island, there is one piece of magic that you can actually bring home. That is a bottle of Madeira wine.

This popular fortified Portuguese wine has been making every visitor to the shores of Madeira happy ever since the Age of Exploration when the Funchal port was an important stop in several marine routes. The uniqueness of the process in which the wine is made was come upon by accident. A whole shipment of wine, after being exposed to the heat during a long voyage, came back unsold, and tasted better than it did when it had first been loaded on the ship. Madeira wine, as it is made today, is heated for a long time and even exposed to allow some oxidation. The result is an enduring and endearing sweet concoction. After tasting the wine in any of the several café terraces a visitor cannot resist going wine shopping in Madeira. The best way to do it is to go to any of the wine company lodges in the city.

• Madeira Wine Company

The Madeira Wine Company was started back in 1913. Since then several companies have joined to make the Madeira Wine Company the largest wine company in Madeira. The Old Blandy Wine Lodge welcomes more than two hundred thousand visitors every year. Guided tours through the winery and its cellars are interesting and educational. Sitting right in the center of Funchal the lodge offers its visitors the unique opportunity to see everything from wine being made to tasting and buying it. Occupying a position of honor is the Frasqueira-Vintage Madeira which has its own separate tasting room. Other than Madeira wines one can also buy Port wines, Table wines, Madeira cakes and many other wine accompaniments. Experts are always at hand to give wine pairing and serving advice.

• Artur de Barros e Sousa, Lda.

From the largest company to the smallest, Artur de Barros e Sousa, Lda, is the only company that still matures their wines using the canteiro method. Not really an exporter of wines, the company sells wines mostly to those who walk in through the doors of their lodge. The personal interaction with the wine maker during a trip to this lodge is only possible because of the small size of this company.

Deciding which bottle to buy, while sipping on a glass of wine is probably the best way to buy it. However, a more cost effective way of going about wine shopping in Madeira is to visit any of the many wine shops strewn all over the city. Diogo’s, Garrafeira and Pipa Velha are some popular wine shops in Madeira.

Photo of Madeira wine barrel by fxp

Historical tourism, cultural tourism, architectural tourism, tourism for shopping or just tourism for fun- whatever the kind of tourism France has quenched every tourist’s thirst. But France is also the ideal country to play host to another kind of tourism. If your idea of a good time is a glass of full bodied wine in your hand and the smell of ripening grapes in your nose then this is a blog for you. This is a wine lover’s guide to France. Almost every region of France has a winery or two. Then there are some more famous. If you have ever sipped on trampled and aged grapes then you must have heard at least three region names- Champagne, Burgundy and Bordeaux. Some other more popular regions are Alsace, Loire Valley, Rhône Valley, Provence and Savoie.

Champagne

Remember the old black and white movies with stylish heroes clicking champagne glasses with perfectly coiffed heroines in chic parties! All those spell-binding movie scenes have this region of France to thank. Legend has it that Dom Pérignon, a Benedictine monk, discovered this symbol of sophistication by accident in his abbey in a town called Hautvillers. Large wine houses like Mumm, Moët and Chandon, along with more than a hundred other famous names, host guided tours of their wineries, with wine tasting opportunities in their cellars. Wine enthusiasts can go crazy here with the option of tasting anything from old wines to the current vintage. There are more than wine tours too. The most important city of the region is Reims which saw twenty five kings donning the mantle of royalty at its famous Notre-Dame Cathedral. This magnificent Gothic church is one of the most beautiful in the world. Reims is also the only place where one can see the labyrinth of crayères, the dark limestone caverns that are the ideal environment for storing bubbly. Epernay, the other half of the twin capitals of Champagne, has several champagne houses more easily accessible than in Reims. Other attractions of the region include the capital of the Counts of Champagne, Troyes, thirteenth century medieval castles and bridges and so much more.

Burgundy

Colorful tiles crisscross with golden ones to cover the roofs of the houses of this predominantly white wine making region. Once including almost all of Belgium and Holland, the duchy of Burgundy was one of the most influential regions of Europe with powerful princes like Charles the Bold. Visits to the wine producing little villages are always welcomed by the locals. There are several open air markets that sell all the locally produced food and wines. One of the more famous towns in the region is Chablis, the chief producer of the most famous white wine of the same name. Beaune is another picture postcard like city in the region. The Hôtel-Dieu in Beaune, a hospital that ran for about four centuries until it stopped functioning in the nineteenth, holds an annual wine auction in November. The Trois Glorieuses wine auction has two purposes- raising money for charity and, in the process, setting current vintage wine prices. Marché aux Vins is a church from the thirteenth century now converted into a wine cellar that regularly hosts wine tasting. To burn off the calories from the wine tasting take a bike ride on the beautiful trail of Bourgogne Randonnees. And it’s not just wines either. The famous Dijon mustard comes from the city of Dijon. The Ducal palace and its museum in Dijon are a must see for all history, art and architecture buffs.

Bordeaux

Sitting at the south western waterfront border of France, Bordeaux is a port city most well known for its famous wines. Gourmet Touring is, as the name suggests, a company that offers to tailor a tour of this region the way only locals of this region could. Driving through the wine country in a GPS fitted car with a pre-programmed route of your choice is absolutely the best way to get the most out of your Bordeaux vacation. The Bordeaux Wine School is not only a great place to sample some great wines but can also be an educational trip. Experts teach the art of wine tasting and help tune and train the visual and the olfactory senses to be able to differentiate between wines. Rue St Catherine offers great shopping experience for all kinds of budgets from the designer boutiques at the upscale Grand Theater end to the more casual and cheaper Place de la Victorie end. Chateau Haut-Marbuzet – Henri Duboscq is one of the best winery-chateaus to visit in the area. Sample some excellent wines, buy what you like, and have the owner guide you through the whole process. Other tourist attractions include the Croiseur Colbert, one of the largest battleships of French Navy, the Grand Theater, Europe’s only surviving wood framed theater and the Palais de la Bourse, which was formerly the stock exchange and now houses Bordeaux’s Chamber of Commerce. For the art lover there is the CAPC Musee d’Art Contemporain and the Musee des Beaux-Arts. Several cathedrals and churches complete the tourism experience of the region.

So pick up your own wine glasses and prepare to experience your own wine lover’s guide to France.

Photo of champagne glass originally posted by  1. RX Photongraphy

Highlight of the opening rituals is tapping the first beer keg and calling out “O’zapft is!” (it’s tapped). Beers from the Big Six breweries would flow in fourteen Beer Tents / Beer Halls; an eclectic array of yummy food would be served; fairground rides would complement the jamboree; and traditional costume and music would be a treat for eyes and ears at the 175th Oktoberfest, which is locally known as “die Wiesn”. The festival draws huge crowd from Europe and across the world so read on the following useful tips to join the festivities in high spirits:

• Be Early to Get the Best View of Opening Ceremony

Though the opening ceremony would start at 12 PM on September 20th, many visitors arrive at the venue at 9 AM to grab the best seat. Try to reach early to enjoy the inaugural events.

• Time Schedule for Beer Serving

Beer is served between 10 AM and 10:30 PM on weekdays. If you like, you can enjoy beer with a hearty breakfast at 9 AM on weekends. All tents except the “Weinzelt” and the “Käfer Wiesn-Schänke” close at 11:30 PM. These two tents serve alcohol until 12:15 AM.

• Advance Reservation

Book tables in tents of your choice well in advance for extra comfort. It is terribly busy, especially on weekends, so reservation is really a good option.

• Children and Family

On Tuesday, a Family Day, food, liquor and rides are available on discount from 12 PM to 6 PM. But children under six are not allowed in the tents after 8 PM even if they are accompanied by adults.

• Save Finery for another Day

Generally, celebrations are incomplete without the best and expensive dresses. But avoid classy clothes at the Oktoberfest as beer spilling is common in the tents.

• Generous Tips for Good Service

To get good service, be polite with Fraus, the barmaids, and tip them generously.

• Transportation

Since no car parking is available, it is better to travel by public transport which is faster and convenient.

• Beer Tents

All beer tents with distinct atmosphere feature both non-reserved outdoor and reserved indoor areas. As going to the bar is not a practice, you have to be seated to get served but the Hofbrau tent also has a standing area.

To rub shoulders with celebrities and VIPs, Hippodrom, a hip tent popular among young and singles, and Käfers Wies’n-Schänke are perfect choices. Traditional charm is recreated in the Augustinerzelt, Braurosl and Ochsenbraterei tents. The Armbrustschützen is known for high-quality Paulaner beer. The world-famous Hofbräu Festhalle, a meeting point for the Austrians and American tourists, serves veritable Bavarian fare. Visit Schützen-Festzelt to savor sucking pig cooked in traditional Bavarian style; Weinzelt, a wine tent, to sample an array of wines; and Fischer-Vroni for fish delicacies.

Photo of Munich Oktoberfest by night originally posted by Nico Kaiser

Dear Travel Agony Aunt,
My husband and I are coming to Rome next week and are planning a weekend out of the city. Can you suggest a nice place to visit which can be not too tiring? Thanks for your help!
Martine, age 53, from France

Dear Martine,

I’m so happy you’re asking this question, because I’m back from a lovely weekend in the Tuscia region in the northern part of Lazio and it was just amazing! We stayed in a nice hotel at Lake Bolsena, in the province of Viterbo, about 90 miles from Rome and took different day trips to neighboring sites. Fortunately the area is still not an extremely popular tourist destination and thus it was not too crowded. Having said that, getting around by public transportation is not really an option and you have to rent a car.

On the shore of the lake there are many interesting small villages rich of history and tradition like Montefiascone or Marta. From Bolsena it is also very easy to reach Orvieto, a beautiful Umbrian city surrounded by a breathtaking landscape of vineyards and fields. Also worth a mention is the city of Civita di Bagnoregio, a medieval town that can be reached only on foot. The complete absence of cars makes the atmosphere almost unreal.

In August there are some really fascinating local festivals and events that are worth checking out, like the Bolsena fish festival and the Montefiascone wine festival. This little town is famous for its excellent wine Est! Est! Est! and the festival takes place during the first three weeks of August. Maybe you are still in time to attend the event! For the occasion many cellars of the historic center are open to visitors and you have the chance to sample delicious local products.

My weekend was not tiring and I also enjoyed a relaxing afternoon by the lake, cooling off in its exceptionally clean waters.

I hope you have a nice journey and enjoy yourself. Just follow my travel tips and you should be fine!

British traveler stereotype: The British Foreign Office reports an increase of British holidaymakers arrested and hospitalized in Spain, especially in popular holiday destinations such as the Costa del Sol and the Balearic Islands. According to the report, the main reason is drunken behavior.

Hotel stories: Concierge.com lists the 15 worst hotel guests ever. The list includes English rock star Amy Winehouse, who made headline news for fighting with her husband at London Sanderson Hotel last September, and Paris Hilton’s friend Brandon Davis, who remained in debt with Las Vegas Hard Rock Hotel for a long time after losing $150,000 at the hotel casino.

Do you know what flashpacking means? Visit Vagabondish to find the definition and learn how to be a successful flashpacker.

Gourmet travel: According to Men’s Vogue, China could become the next number one wine-producing country.

Context Travel is a network of scholars that organizes walking seminars for travelers throughout Italy and Europe and for this event, sommelier and culinary expert Tamara Andruszkiewicz is putting together an evening of food and wine that will take you beyond the crowds of San Marco and into the rich history of Venice.

The event takes place at the Fiaschetteria Toscana, which contrary to having the word “Tuscany” in its name, is actually a quite traditional and well-respected Venetian restaurant. By working with the chef, Tamara will create a menu of seasonal Italian food that is tied to Venice. Each course will also be expertly paired with accompanying wine. Of course Venice’s location and fishing history dictates that much of the menu will be seafood based, so anyone with an aversion to fish may beware.

The four-hour dinner costs €155 (which includes a €95 multi-course meal and wine) and is open to 8 clients. So many travelers find it difficult to know where to find a decent meal in Venice, you might consider skipping out on the gondola ride and placing it here instead!

For booking and further information, visit the Context Travel website.

An Overview

More than 135 grape varieties are cultivated in 13 growing regions throughout the country; many of which are nestled on the River Rhine and its tributaries. More than half of German wine production is centered in the federal state of Rhineland-Palatinate, where 6 of the 13 regions are located. Germany has long been known for its white wine due to the success of varieties Riesling and Gewürztraminer. But in recent years, German red varieties such as Spätburgunder (Pinot Noir) and the fairly new crossing Dornfelder, have been steadily increasing in popularity.

Some of the most popular varieties to look for on your next visit to German wine country (or even the wine aisle at your local supermarket) include whites like Müller-Thurgau (also known as Rivaner), Silvaner or Grüner Silvaner, Grauburgunder (Pinot Gris), and Weißburgunder (Pinot Blanc). Popular German reds include the previously mentioned Spatburgunder and Dornfelder, Blauer Portugieser, Trollinger, Schwarzriesling(Pinot Meunier), and Regent.

• German Wine Classification

German wines are classified into four different types:

- Deutscher Tafelwein or ‘German Table Wine’ (equivalent to vin de table) is the lowest quality German wine made from slightly less ripened grapes by adding sugar. Legally it must contain at least 8.5% alcohol per volume and 4.5% grams/liter of acidity.

- Deutscher Landwein or ‘German Country Wine’ (equivalent to vin de pays) is a classification almost identical to Deutscher Tafelwein, with the exception that the wine must be indicated as trocken (dry) or halbtrocken (off-dry) on the label. Deutscher Landwein may also include fruit wines.

- Qualitätswein bestimmter Anbaugebiete (QbA) or ‘Quality Wine from a Specified Region’ are wines that only come from one of the 13 recognized wine regions (which must be indicated on the label). The alcohol content by volume in QbA wines is at least 7% and it ranges from dry to semi-sweet which is also indicated on the label.

- Prädikatswein (formerly known as Qualitätswein mit Prädikat or QmP) is the highest quality level attributed to German wines. The Prädikat or ‘attribute’ indicates the ripeness of the grapes used. The Prädikat falls into one of six categories which ascend according to increasing ripeness:

- Kabinett made from fully ripened grapes from the main harvest, it is typically light, semi-sweet with a crisp acidity. Historically, this wine was good enough for the winemaker’s own cabinet – hence the name. Drink it alone or with a meal.

- Spätlese means ‘late harvest’ and is often but not always sweeter and fruitier than Kabinett wines. It is typically semi-sweet, can be comparatively full-bodied and best accompanies richer foods.

- Auslese or ‘select harvest’ indicates the use of very ripe, select bunches of grapes. Auslese covers the widest range of wines and is often intense in bouquet and taste. These are usually sweet dessert wines, but can also be dry or semi-dry.

- Beerenauslese is made from individually selected, overly ripened noble grapes and is made into incredibly sought-after sweet dessert wines with high longevity.

- Eiswein or ‘Ice Wine’ is made from grapes harvested and pressed when frozen. The result is a very sweet, concentrated wine.

- Trockenbeerenauslese is made from selected, raisin-like berries affected from noble rot and produces an incredibly rich, honey-like wine.

• Sweetness and Color

German wines are also designated according to sweetness and color. Here are a few words to bolster your wine vocabulary auf Deutsch:

- Trocken means ‘dry’ and appears on the wine label.
- Halbtrocken is ‘half-dry’. Like trocken, this designation also is visible on the label. Most wine lovers consider this ‘dry’.
- Feinherb or ‘off-dry’ is only slightly sweeter than halbtrocken.
- Lieblich/mild/restsüss designate semi-sweet wines.
- Süss/edelsüss are used for sweet wines. Like the designations feinherb, lieblich, mild, and restsüss, süss and edelsüss will more likely appear in a menu than on the wine label itself.
- Classic is a newer designation and is typically dry. Classic wine labels name the producer and the region of origin, but purposely omit the vineyard name.
- Selection, like Classic, is a dry wine. It originates from grapes harvested by hand from the same vineyard which is then indicated on the label.
- Weißwein means ‘white wine’.
- Rotwein signifies ‘red wine’.
- Roséwein or Weißherbst are rosé wines, whereby Weißherbst wines must be a QbA or Prädikatswein and made from a single variety indicated on the label.

• Enjoying German Wines

Even if you are only in Germany for several days, take time to experience Germany’s wine country. Only a few hours travel from most popular destinations in the country, local wine regions make German wine and culture easily accessible with a multitude of wineries, vineyard tours, tasting rooms, and summer wine festivals. The many ‘wine houses’ are devoted to serving traditional German cuisine which perfectly accompany the fruits of the vine. Most restaurants have sommeliers and staff who will gladly help you in making your selection.

Finally, do as the Germans do before taking that first drink: Look each other in the eyes and say Prost!

Photo of wine cellar, Rhine River, originally posted by beketchai

At these festivals the spotlight shines on regional and local wines, food and entertainment. Many also feature markets for local artisans and craftspeople. From families to foodies, German wine festivals offer something for everyone, especially the experience of eating, drinking and enjoying the sultry summer the way locals do.

German wine festivals usually take place in late summer or early fall. Many of Germany’s most well-known wine growing regions are centrally located, often just a short drive from Frankfurt Airport. Germany’s public transit is an easy, reliable way to get to any of the wine festivals and safely indulge in some wine tasting. Deutsche Bahn (or German Rail) often increases its service to and from wine festival destinations for the duration of the event. There may even be a special fare for the event. Consult a ticketing agent at a train station to help you plan your journey.

• Mainzer Weinmarkt – Mainz Wine Festival

One of the largest wine festivals takes place in the city of Mainz, the state capital of Rhineland-Palatinate where nearly 60 percent of German wine is produced. Just a 30-minute drive from Frankfurt, this festival attracts more than half a million visitors annually who come to sip the best vintages, enjoy culinary specialties, take their children to the fairway for a ride on the carousels, as well as to browse at the book fair and craft market. Some specialties to accompany your wine are the Spundekäs (a creamy cheese dip to be eaten with a fresh, hot pretzel) and Handkäs mit Musik (mature, handmade cheese marinated in oil, vinegar, onions and caraway seed eaten with a slice of crusty wheat bread – quite tasty, but not for the faint of palate or digestive tract).

Live music of all genres is featured nightly on several different stages throughout Mainz’s largest civic park, the Volkspark and the adjacent Rosengarten, or rose garden. Take the train to the Römisches Theater station and follow the crowds for about 5 minutes to the park. You can also take buses 62 or 63 to either the Volkspark or Rosengarten bus stops. The Mainzer Weinmarkt runs this year from 28th – 31st August and 4th – 7th September beginning at 3pm each day.

• Stuttgarter Weindorf – Stuttgart Wine Village

Another of the largest wine festivals in all of Germany, the Wine Village in Stuttgart, welcomes over one million guests each year over twelve days with over 250 regional wines. The Swabians are a proud and industrious people and this is their showcase of delectable wines, mouthwatering regional specialties as well as their tremendous hospitality. Be sure to try the Maultaschen (similar to ravioli with a pork, breadcrumb and vegetable filling), the Bubenspitzle (small, blimp-shaped potato dumplings) or the Schweinshaxe (pork knuckle).

In 2008, the Wine Village Stuttgart takes place daily over two weeks, from 27th August – 7th September. To get there, walk southwest from the main train station down Königstraße and float with the masses over to the market square or Marktplatz. It is open daily from 11am to 11pm during the week and until midnight on the weekends.

• Rheingauer Weinmarkt –Rheingau Wine Festival, Frankfurt

The year 2008 marks the 30th anniversary of the Rheingau Wine Festival located in the heart of Frankfurt’s pedestrian zone. This festival hosts over 300,000 visitors and boasts over 600 wines from 30+ vintners based in the Rheingau wine growing region around Frankfurt. The festival is a particularly exciting experience for foodies since it is located near the “Freßgass”, the local nickname for Grosse Bockenheimerstraße, a street well known for its many fine eating establishments and variety of restaurants.

As the focus of the Rheingau Wine Festival is primarily wine and food, there are few attractions for children. But just a short walk further, you’ll find the High Street shopping district, the Zeil. From the main train station, take the U-Bahn or underground to the stop Opernplatz, or walk there heading northeast on the Mainzer Landstraße for about 10-15 minutes. One of the longest running of all German wine festivals, the Rheingau Wine Festival is on daily from 3rd August to 12th September 2008, 11am to 11pm and weekends until midnight.

If you aren’t stopping in or around Frankfurt or Stuttgart, talk to your hosts or travel agent. Wine festivals take place in even the tiniest of villages throughout the wine growing regions in Germany. Many cities, towns and villages celebrate at least one local summer festival if not more, even if is not a wine region. Regardless of where you go in the country, join the locals for a truly tasty and unique cultural experience.

Photo of Stuttgart Wine Festival originally posted by alexeya

From the fragrant whites of the north, to the sun drenched reds of the south, Italian wine is pure pleasure on the tongue. That is as long as you know what you’re looking for.

So where to start? Let’s start where we normally start; with the ABC’s, or rather the DOCG’s DOC’s, and IGT’s. The Italian system of classifying wines can be described as a pyramid with DOCG being at the top.

• DOCG (Denomination of Origin Controlled and Guaranteed)

DOCG, Denomination of Origin Controlled and Guaranteed, was first applied in 1990. There are 33 DOCG’s in Italy, the largest amount hailing from Piedmont in the north. Each DOCG has its own rules and regulations that a producer must meet in order to get the coveted pink and green labels proclaiming its own authenticity. Pink labels for red wines, and green for white. The rules always include specifications on where the grape comes from, the soil it’s grown in and a limitation on the yield of production. They also often include rules about aging, bottling, and the wine making process. Some of my favorite DOCG wines include Barolo, Amarone, Chianti, and Chianti Classico for reds, and Gavi, and Greco di Tufo for whites. I feel I must also note that just because these wines are at the top of the pyramid does not necessarily mean they are always the most interesting, or the best of all the Italian wines. They are simply guaranteed to be produced in certain ways. I also am sad to report that does cheating takes place when it comes to the rules, numerous articles on the subject were in Italian newspapers last winter. I think it is best to look for smaller, more traditional producers if you want to be more sure.

• DOC (Denomination of Origin Controlled)

The next level down on the pyramid is DOC; Denomination of Origin Controlled. There are over 300 DOC’s throughout Italy. The rules are about the same as DOCG except slightly more relaxed and they often include larger areas. Sometimes they are extended productions of a DOCG; when a DOCG is limited in its yield the extra wine or grapes are often made into a DOC, usually the aging process is just a bit shorter and the price a little lower. Good examples of this situation are Rosso di Montalcino instead of Brunello, Rosso di Montepluciano instead of Vino Nobile, and Valpolicella instead of Amarone. I love these three wines because they give you all the characters of the DOCG’s but they are younger and easier to drink, more appropriate for a broad range of foods. You can recognize DOC wines by the words Denominazione di Origine Controllata written directly on the bottle’s label.

• IGT (Typical Geographical Indication)

The third pyramid tier is the IGT category. IGT stands for Typical Geographical Indication, and is a very loose category. IGT was first introduced in 1997 as a way of giving importance to wines that weren’t necessarily traditional to Italy. The famous Super Tuscans are now IGT’s, before they were in the Table Wine category (see below), this has promoted the innovation and creation of new interesting wines, using international grapes that aren’t allowed in the DOCG, and DOC categories. The results of these wines have been varied. Some are the most expensive wines in Italy such as the famous Tignanello and Sassicaia from the Bolgheri region of Tuscany, but many are cheap wines a step up from the bottom of the heap; good for every day drinking. An IGT wine will say IGT on the label.

• Table wine

The bottom of the pyramid is the Vino di Tavolo, or Table wine. These are wines produced in bulk specifically for the everyday needs of Italian wine drinkers. They are the house wines of trattoria’s, and the large bottled wines in the markets. They are cheap, and easy to drink. Sometimes they are good, sometimes bad, and usually you can’t be sure of where or when they came from. The bottle’s label only needs to say the region it was bottled in, the amount of alcohol, “do not litter”, and the amount of wine in the bottle. No vintage necessary. Drink these wines with low expectations, though it is possible you may stumble upon something spectacular.

There is no way to know without doing the dirty little job of drinking!

Photo of Italian wine bottles by Fiona Lapham

The recent ban on pigeon feeding in Venice, Italy marks the end of a long touristic tradition. Be careful next time you visit St.Mark’s square: don’t feed pigeons or you could get fined!

On the International Herald Tribune, Italian wine lovers can read an interesting story on Soave wine produced in the Verona countryside.

Looking for an eco-friendly hotel in Copenhagen, Denmark? Book your stay at carbon neutral Hotel Danmark, Ibsens Hotel or Hotel Kong Arthur, all members of Brochner hotel group.

More Environmentally-friendly hotel news: the Whitehall Group printing company came up with the idea of biodegradable room keys that hotel guests can recycle after their stay.

But the landscape changes, and gets even more suggestive, when you reach Siena: the earth has a brownish, dark orange hue, and the change in color is more evident at sunset or sunrise, when the sun casts its light on the land. You have entered the famous Crete senesi, a lunar landscape created by the peculiar composition of the clay, which was brought here by the sea that covered the area about 3 million years ago.

I usually suggest to visit Tuscany by car, in order to appreciate the countryside and have enough time to enjoy the scents and flavors of the area. This is especially true if you are going to Siena: before visiting one of the most fascinating cities in Italy, maybe the one that is best steeped in history, I recommend a gastronomic tour of the Crete, the area that goes from Siena to Asciano (you can also travel by Natura train, a steam-powered train that explores Siena countryside in a very relaxing way). You can find many farm houses that have the benefit of a stunning panoramic position, and enjoy sharing the Tuscan gastronomic tradition with their guests.

Food in Siena is rustic in character but at the same time refined; the cuisine tends to be simple, but it uses all the fragrances that nature can offer.

You might start with a bruschetta, slices of toasted Tuscan bread with garlic and olive oil, and accompany it with the famous Pecorino of Pienza, a scented cheese that has the taste of all the herbs that sheep eat during the year. All through the summer, there is nothing better than eating panzanella, and if you have never tasted it you don’t know what you have missed! Let me explain how simple and appetizing this dish is: some dried bread soaked in water and seasoned with red onions, ripe tomatoes, cucumbers, basil, olive oil and vinegar. This recipe has humble origins because it was created by farmers who wanted to use their stale bread and all the summer vegetables they could find in their garden.

Needless to say, Siena is the area of fantastic wines such as Brunello di Montalcino, Chianti Classico and Vernaccia di San Gimignano.

Therefore, after some days in the Tuscan countryside, you are ready to plunge into the medieval charm of Siena. The ideal time to be there is in July and August, when the 17 contrade (quarters of the city) fight for a painted banner in the famous Palio di Siena, a horse race that takes place in one of the most magnificent Italian squares, Piazza del Campo. However, the exciting atmosphere of the Palio is not limited to the dates of the race (2nd July and 16th August), but it pervades the lives of the people who gather, parade, shed tears and rejoice for their contrada during the rest of the year (I will tell you more about the Palio in a next article).

You can experience the culinary riches of Siena in the numerous restaurants you find in town, but don’t forget to go in bar o caffè, because there you can taste two of the gastronomic glories of Siena: ricciarelli (delicate sugar-almond pastries) and panforte (a fruitcake that dates back to the thirteenth century, made of candied fruits, walnuts, almonds, orange peel, cinnamon and other spices).

Photos of Siena countryside originally posted by peuplier

Spain is a great place to do this. The Spanish take food and drink seriously, not in a solemn way, but as a great social pleasure to be enjoyed, and they have great respect for the quality of what they consume, for the hard work and artistry which goes into its preparation.

So, here is an insider’s guide to the delights of Spanish drinks, some well-known, some hidden gems. Enjoy.

• Tinto de verano

Everybody has heard of sangria- the mixture of wine, juice, brandy and fruit pieces which for many people typifies Spain. There is no denying that it is a great drink, but on the down side you can normally only order it by the jug, which can be expensive. If what you are after is a quick, light, refreshing drink, then try tinto de verano a simple mixture of red wine and lemonade, usually served in a tall glass over ice – perfect for hot summer nights.

• San Miguel beer

Most regions and even individual towns in Spain have their own brand of beer, but my person favorite is San Miguel, brewed in Malaga, the capital of the Costa del Sol. It is a light, crisp beer, with a smooth aftertaste and it goes down a treat on its own or with a meal.

• Rioja wine

This northern region gave its name to the most famous wine in Spain. The best known wines from Rioja are reds, which go very well with a good steak or other meats. Less well known but equally well worth trying are the lighter rosé versions and the crisp, fresh white wines. There is something to suit everybody’s taste and pocket, from good simple table wines to grand reserves which can live with the world’s finest and which change hands for hundreds of euros.

• Cava wine

This is the Spanish equivalent of Champagne and comes from Catalonia, in the north-east of Spain. The most famous brand is Freixenet, which accounts for over half of all cava sales, although in total there are well over 200 cava producers. Cava is a light, normally dry sparkling wine, and it has a very important place in Catalan culture and cookery. Try it either as an aperitif, or with one of the combination dishes of poultry cooked with fruit for which Catalonia is famous.

• Licor Cuarenta y Tres ( Licor 43)

This is quite simply the ultimate after-dinner drink. As the name suggests, it is made from a mixture of 43 different ingredients, including citrus and other fruits, herbs and spices and vanilla, which all together produce a glowing golden drink with a smooth and warming flavor, containing hints of chocolate and bananas. Normally served over ice, it is slightly sweet, but with a serious bite.

Don’t leave Spain without trying it!

Spain Hotels for wine lovers :

Hotel Los Jándalos Jerez – Jerez de la Frontera

Housed in an antique wine cellar, this 4-star hotel is located in Jerez de la Frontera, a small town in the province of Cadiz, Andalusia.

Famous for Andalusian horses and Flamenco music, Jerez is also a major center of brandy and sherry production. The city is well known for its bodegas and the elegant Hotel Los Jandalos Jerez is the perfect starting point to visit the local wineries or take an Andalusia wine tour.

Hotel Santa Anna – L’Estartit

Located in L’Estartit beach resort and featuring a large swimming pool, the Hotel Santa Anna is a great spot for a family holiday on the Costa Brava.

Food and wine lovers can sample delicious Spanish and Mediterranean specialties at the hotel restaurant. They can also book wine tasting and wine tour around Barcelona and Penedès, an area well known for its Cava sparkling wine.

Hotel Las Gaunas – Logroño

The brand new Hotel Las Gaunas offers comfortable rooms at affordable price in the heart of Logroño, a town located on the Ebro river, in the Northern region of La Rioja.

With a vast choice of tapas bars and taverns, the city is certainly one of the best places to enjoy Spanish wine culture. In addition, as a center of Rioja wine production, Logroño boasts numerous wineries offering wine tasting sessions, as well as calados, antique cellars featuring caves dug in the stone.

Picture of Tinto de Verano and beer originally posted by dirk.hartung

1. Chateau de Challanges – Beaune

The Château de Challanges is a 19th century manor house that is now home to a 3-star hotel. The chateau is located in the town of Beaune on the famous Route des Grands Crus, a popular tourist road among the many vineyards of Burgundy. Hotel Chateau de Challanges is surrounded by a 7 hectare (17 acre) forest with a river and a secret underground passage.
The Chateau offers elegant and castle-worthy accommodation in suites or double rooms.
Amenities include an outdoor swimming pool, a bar where you can relax and have a drink after dinner and a conference room.

2. Château de Gilly – Vougeot

The glorious Chateau de Gilly with its breathtaking French gardens is located in Clos de Vougeot, at just 3 km (2 miles) from the lovely town of Vougeot and not far from Dijon. The 4 star luxury hotel was formerly and abbey, housing Cistercian monks from the 13th to the 17th century. The dining room is housed in a vaulted crypt-cellar and requires formal attire. Chateau de Gilly is part of the Small Luxury Hotels of the World group.
Some of the rooms have beamed ceilings. Amenities include an outdoor swimming pool and a bar with billiard.

3. Hostellerie du Château de Sainte Sabine – Pouilly-en-Auxois

The 17th century manor house Château de Sainte Sabine was built on the site of an 11th century monastry, in the lovely marrket town of Pouilly-en-Auxois in the Côte-d’Or department, the primary wine growing part of Burgundy. This 3-star hotel offers gourmet dining, an outdoor swimming pool and a large park with animals.
The hotel also features meeting and banquet facilities. Accommodation is offered in simple rooms with private bathroom, television and phone.

4. Château d’Island Vézelay – Avallon

Château d’Island Vézelay is located in the picturesque town of Avallon in the Yonne department of Burgundy. The 15th century castle offers a unique atmosphere and offers excellent local cuisine. Rooms are elegantly appointed and offer internet access. The elegant lounge with its wooden panels offers a great place to relax after a day spent hiking or touring the region.

5. Château de Flammerans – Auxonne

The Château de Flammerans is situated in the town of Auxonne and offers homely guest house style accommodation. This charming manor house offers great amenities such as an outdoor swimming pool, the Orangerie living room, a billiard room and horse riding in the castle park. Dinner in the lovely dining room is prepared by the castle owner Mr Barrier and includes delicious dishes such as Bœuf Bourguignon and the traditional French escargots.

Situated approximately 22 miles north of Prague, it is not as known for the architecture or history, but it can be described as quaint, picturesque, and serene.

Wine tasting, Renaissance castle and scenic views

My roommate and I arrived on a Saturday afternoon, taking a bus that costs about 50k? (~$2.50). After a short walk uphill, following a map posted near the bus station, we found ourselves in the city center. As small towns tend to be on the weekend, it was very quiet and there were very few people out and about. There were a handful of locals and tourists eating lunch on the patios of the restaurants we passed. We made a mental note to sit at one of the restaurants, covered in ivy, and have a glass of wine (M?lník is known for its wine, especially for the white Ludmila).

Continuing past the restaurants and uphill, we finally arrived at the beautiful Melnik Chateau and chapel. We went inside the chapel first because it was free. I’ll be honest, it’s kind of gaudy on the inside. The chapel definitely shows its age, which is full of character. It’s worth a look inside, but it’s no St. Peter’s. Within a little courtyard surrounding the Chateau were small shops set up outside selling jewelry, wicker-baskets (the man makes them right there in front of you and it’s very interesting to watch), some of the tastiest gingerbread cookies I’ve ever had, and honey-wine of which the sales woman was giving away free samples. To go inside the castle didn’t really cost that much, but we were really frugal with our money that weekend and chose not to enter. We preferred the scenic views outside, anyway.

A relaxing gateway from the hustle and bustle of Prague

The Vltava and Labe rivers converge at M?lník, which is set up on the hillside so that you can look across a small vineyard and down to the rivers. There are benches where you can sit and just gaze at the beautiful landscape. My roommate and I took the opportunity to stop at a grocery store (M?lník has an Albert tucked away in the business center of town which we passed on our way uphill) where we bought bread, cheese, apples, and chocolate. We sat and lunched, talking and watching ducks swim in the rivers below.

Afterward, as we’d promised ourselves, we wandered around and found a little hole in the wall café. It was set back from the street, separated by a small tunnel, which opened onto a small courtyard where you could look up and see people’s laundry hanging outside on the balconies. My roommate ordered a very dry, red wine and I chose a sweeter, white. Both were very good and we sat and half-way read, half-way listened to a conversation between some German tourists sitting behind us.

All in all it was a relaxing and pleasant getaway from the bustle of Prague. As soon as the weather turns warmer and the trees are in bloom, I’m going again.

Photo of M?lník Castle originally posted by apachicz