tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-44866804536551855862024-02-22T04:54:57.459-08:00Sunshine on Sugar HillThis is the blog of author, editor and TV presenter Angela Gilltrap. Based in Manhattan, New York, Angela Gilltrap is the author of "Sunshine on Sugar Hill" (ABC/Harper Collins). Follow on twitter: @AngelaGilltrap.Angela Gilltraphttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14581311542707150813noreply@blogger.comBlogger140125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4486680453655185586.post-68402575070327016332011-07-06T10:41:00.001-07:002011-07-06T11:10:55.233-07:00National Kissing Day: Three Top Stops for Smooching<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgtMZLYjlaCpsiHIpLiVkM-_QV_TV7zLPQegwr-8FcnrDWUGYX1wgzXtqfNuEGrkYncuOAd-jtTJAjSkVRW4eWm1EnYT3Yhq91Z6h7V0LzKU4cY3W3ENC4uU_1dxPxTuEeA_BAswtkLKgqW/s1600/boqueria1.jpg"><img style="float: left; margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; cursor: pointer; width: 161px; height: 182px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgtMZLYjlaCpsiHIpLiVkM-_QV_TV7zLPQegwr-8FcnrDWUGYX1wgzXtqfNuEGrkYncuOAd-jtTJAjSkVRW4eWm1EnYT3Yhq91Z6h7V0LzKU4cY3W3ENC4uU_1dxPxTuEeA_BAswtkLKgqW/s200/boqueria1.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5626297093155746866" border="0" /></a>In honor of <span style="font-weight: bold;">National Kissing Day</span>, here are three top spots to get cosy in NYC:<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Boqueria</span>: There is something about sharing food that brings people together. This Soho staple delivers the best in Spanish tapas. Try the <span style="font-style: italic; font-weight: bold;">Pimientos de Padrón</span> — Blistered Shishito peppers with coarse sea salt and <span style="font-style: italic; font-weight: bold;">Gambas al Ajillo</span> Shrimp, garlic and Guindilla pepper in olive oil to get the party started. And let's face it, a jug of sangria doesn't hurt...<br /><br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh4xxzEmQbd2mPhwp4WzwUYdKxqZ1X6QBBPQrHZJpd1UnhU_9Qwi3XXsNGV7ZpMnBmJOhLKOjO5PfExG7KHMhkYMk5EgUb6ANDho2pK6ewGT0c8SxdxEmoRS7dxhfEkyhH_z3xOalHA-V2q/s1600/bq14.jpg"><img style="float: left; margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; cursor: pointer; width: 200px; height: 132px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh4xxzEmQbd2mPhwp4WzwUYdKxqZ1X6QBBPQrHZJpd1UnhU_9Qwi3XXsNGV7ZpMnBmJOhLKOjO5PfExG7KHMhkYMk5EgUb6ANDho2pK6ewGT0c8SxdxEmoRS7dxhfEkyhH_z3xOalHA-V2q/s200/bq14.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5626298846316157490" border="0" /></a><span style="font-weight: bold;">The Boathouse:</span> It's been the backdrop of many a romantic comedy and for good reason. The Boathouse in Central Park is the perfect setting for a smoochy night out. A day trip is actually my favorite way to savor this moment. A glass of wine watching others attempt a romantic sentiment in a dingy is somewhat amusing and definitely a bonding experience. Better yet it is one of the restaurants featured in NY's restaurant week. What are you waiting for?<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjVTC3KPZllvw3Ku1k5j3mTbNotwXNGE0sZndNVS4eoO8zhLEagZDFP5ytKTHRQZeZs71R_KmtaPoEbL0zJJQoFgPsk7v19OSwRjLqPfnAPHKXXvhhBh1TCAfs7F4TSaaGsQ1gtoJPFHts2/s1600/barbounia.jpg"><img style="float: left; margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; cursor: pointer; width: 170px; height: 165px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjVTC3KPZllvw3Ku1k5j3mTbNotwXNGE0sZndNVS4eoO8zhLEagZDFP5ytKTHRQZeZs71R_KmtaPoEbL0zJJQoFgPsk7v19OSwRjLqPfnAPHKXXvhhBh1TCAfs7F4TSaaGsQ1gtoJPFHts2/s200/barbounia.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5626302732661178274" border="0" /></a><span style="font-weight: bold;">Barbounia</span><br /><br />One of the best happy hours in town, Barbounia features bar seating at it's finest. Whether you want to get cozy with your loved one or are simply happy to socialize, this Mediterranean spot is a bee hive of activity. Catch up over drinks or dine in style, either way it will quickly become a happy smooching memory.<br /><br /><!-- AddThis Button BEGIN --><br /><div class="addthis_toolbox addthis_default_style "><br /><a class="addthis_button_preferred_1"></a><br /><a class="addthis_button_preferred_2"></a><br /><a class="addthis_button_preferred_3"></a><br /><a class="addthis_button_preferred_4"></a><br /><a class="addthis_button_compact"></a><br /><a class="addthis_counter addthis_bubble_style"></a><br /></div><br /><script type="text/javascript" src="http://s7.addthis.com/js/250/addthis_widget.js#pubid=xa-4e14a4e12430bb06"></script><br /><!-- AddThis Button END -->Angela Gilltraphttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14581311542707150813noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4486680453655185586.post-88972146144813951692011-06-29T05:00:00.000-07:002011-06-29T05:00:05.209-07:00Archery is the New Black<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi6fS3kS0VIFpf5HXxe_taJs_tTIVdYsOmJRaeqz-MvnCSgjxb57abYTvV0xBGjsBMwCjOuGtUg4dEZm3f1J3LCfan77f7JsXOKx24gWIAHfedIbRHy8J3gAo_kceTjMQZBd_FQfaTWZS-N/s1600/archersDM1304_468x364.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 249px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi6fS3kS0VIFpf5HXxe_taJs_tTIVdYsOmJRaeqz-MvnCSgjxb57abYTvV0xBGjsBMwCjOuGtUg4dEZm3f1J3LCfan77f7JsXOKx24gWIAHfedIbRHy8J3gAo_kceTjMQZBd_FQfaTWZS-N/s320/archersDM1304_468x364.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5622619820215370690" /></a><br />It's the only sport I may have a distant chance of winning an olympic medal in — goodness knows these legs wouldn't hold up to a mid-life hurdle attempt. Now thanks to my good friend, Joseph Ungoco, my olympic archery ambitions came to life this summer in New York City.<div><br /></div><div>Long been the past time of the wise and wonderful; Gina Davis made the olympic trials for the U.S. women's team and much loved author Paulo Coelho of <i>The Alchemist</i> fame has been a long time advocate, archery is one step up from bowling, one step below red-neck-gun-range action.</div><div><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgMKszKqr_Q1EJ6nHeZWT39JANlBkIGXSwCngmMPhd-pZRKAYfwrXCHZN8UpKDpil7OIn_1TTUEB-VTiEQLD8TDCRqDub2GnxBrfSzCCJl4xZCVbv3W8T6f4WkMsousEXmohkJWMuCliW-l/s1600/ginadavis.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 259px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgMKszKqr_Q1EJ6nHeZWT39JANlBkIGXSwCngmMPhd-pZRKAYfwrXCHZN8UpKDpil7OIn_1TTUEB-VTiEQLD8TDCRqDub2GnxBrfSzCCJl4xZCVbv3W8T6f4WkMsousEXmohkJWMuCliW-l/s320/ginadavis.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5622620159640467250" /></a></div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgMKszKqr_Q1EJ6nHeZWT39JANlBkIGXSwCngmMPhd-pZRKAYfwrXCHZN8UpKDpil7OIn_1TTUEB-VTiEQLD8TDCRqDub2GnxBrfSzCCJl4xZCVbv3W8T6f4WkMsousEXmohkJWMuCliW-l/s1600/ginadavis.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#000000;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;">Once armed with your compound bow, all sorts of images will likely run through your head that will make you feel like the warrior you always knew yourself to be. </span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#000000;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#000000;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;">Depending on your imagination you could quickly become an Elf mid-battle to save a Hobbit; Angelina Jolie in an upcoming action flick and/or part Rambo, part majestic Greek warrior/ess. The choices are endless really.</span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#000000;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"><br /></span></span></div></a><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgMKszKqr_Q1EJ6nHeZWT39JANlBkIGXSwCngmMPhd-pZRKAYfwrXCHZN8UpKDpil7OIn_1TTUEB-VTiEQLD8TDCRqDub2GnxBrfSzCCJl4xZCVbv3W8T6f4WkMsousEXmohkJWMuCliW-l/s1600/ginadavis.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#000000;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;">When it comes to taking up the sport, there are many options. Everything from the bow you use, to the conditions in which you practice.</span></span> </a><a href="http://www.archery-nyc.com/">Queens Archery</a> is where our lust for the arrow began and I have to admit I'm a little bit of a slave to my twice weekly practice. </div><div><br /></div><div>For $20, you get an hour of shooting time, your equipment hire and a lesson on your first visit. <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgCymfcUqz97ApG-57duC_udPw4mbhXxCATf1xhMMyNU2-QlB__4W0WxwAsM2mW9XyyOLqpiHUycSLD__HYj5lAdtu1fOgK-IwN90sFIDRD-47Nun4dC3Qce3eYXwB0Dl9qO0uP3EoRb_Vv/s1600/Maid+Marrion.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="float:right; margin:0 0 10px 10px;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 310px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgCymfcUqz97ApG-57duC_udPw4mbhXxCATf1xhMMyNU2-QlB__4W0WxwAsM2mW9XyyOLqpiHUycSLD__HYj5lAdtu1fOgK-IwN90sFIDRD-47Nun4dC3Qce3eYXwB0Dl9qO0uP3EoRb_Vv/s320/Maid+Marrion.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5622620520312743666" /><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#000000;">As you get better there are options to join a competitive league and for the under 18s they even have a Junior Olympic Development program.</span></a></div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgCymfcUqz97ApG-57duC_udPw4mbhXxCATf1xhMMyNU2-QlB__4W0WxwAsM2mW9XyyOLqpiHUycSLD__HYj5lAdtu1fOgK-IwN90sFIDRD-47Nun4dC3Qce3eYXwB0Dl9qO0uP3EoRb_Vv/s1600/Maid+Marrion.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#000000;"><br /></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#000000;">Whether you've always wanted to try, or are simply looking for something different to do this summer, I highly suggest taking a trip with friends for a good laugh and a chance to be your own action hero. Let's face it, a little controlled agression does you the world of good. </span></div></a>Angela Gilltraphttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14581311542707150813noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4486680453655185586.post-57208832523540908312011-06-26T12:15:00.000-07:002011-06-26T13:07:25.772-07:00Go the F**k to Sleep<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhyB93Y8VXHpcuGcXUK9enLJ2nKDASerVBOEHfOC1s38g37Jmk33OblgLak_68HT5c8gup34ssfAR72Q-h8p__mfsrh5QfIYcBGtxQv6ndktI7n1dZocnBTkIypHlaX7b4NEqXA86-ntTpL/s1600/go-the-f-to-sleep.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 259px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhyB93Y8VXHpcuGcXUK9enLJ2nKDASerVBOEHfOC1s38g37Jmk33OblgLak_68HT5c8gup34ssfAR72Q-h8p__mfsrh5QfIYcBGtxQv6ndktI7n1dZocnBTkIypHlaX7b4NEqXA86-ntTpL/s400/go-the-f-to-sleep.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5622610448798604018" /></a><br /><p style="margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; font: 12.0px Helvetica"><span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px">In today's overachieving world, sometimes it's the parents that need a “happy ever after," particularly when battling bed time. Now, thanks to father of two,<b> Adam Mansbach</b>,<b> </b>it's only a page away with this storybook for adults entitled, <b><i>Go the F**k to Sleep</i></b>.</span></p> <p style="margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; font: 12.0px Helvetica; min-height: 14.0px"><span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px"></span><br /></p> <p style="margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; font: 12.0px Helvetica"><span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px">A children’s book for an adults-only audience, this <i><b>Where the Wild Things Are</b></i> type storybook revives the tortured soul at a time when parents need it most. Aunties, Uncles, teachers and helpers alike will all get a giggle out of this ingenius offering that small Brooklyn-based publisher, Aksahic Books took a leap of faith to publish. </span> </p> <p style="margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; font: 12.0px Helvetica; min-height: 14.0px"><span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px"></span><br /></p> <p style="margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; font: 12.0px Helvetica"><span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px">The book has been enormously successful since a pdf was leaked and went viral; particularly in a place like New York where parenting was recently described as a “famously competitive sport” by the New York Post.</span></p><p style="margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; font: 12.0px Helvetica"><span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px"><br /></span></p><p style="margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; font: 12.0px Helvetica"><span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px">Here is a video of Samuel L.Jackson reading a passage. Truly brilliant.</span></p> <p style="margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; font: 12.0px Helvetica; min-height: 14.0px"><span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px"></span><br /><br /><iframe width="560" height="349" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/yKjQbMwvlM8" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen=""></iframe><br /></p><p style="margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; font: 12.0px Helvetica; min-height: 14.0px"><br /></p> <p style="margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; font: 12.0px Helvetica"><br /></p><br /><br /><!-- AddThis Button BEGIN --><br /><div class="addthis_toolbox addthis_default_style "> <a class="addthis_button_preferred_1"></a><br /><a class="addthis_button_preferred_2"></a><a class="addthis_button_preferred_3"></a><a class="addthis_button_preferred_4"></a><a class="addthis_button_compact"></a><a class="addthis_counter addthis_bubble_style"></a></div><script type="text/javascript" src="http://s7.addthis.com/js/250/addthis_widget.js#pubid=xa-4e07910e4f5e2877"></script><!-- AddThis Button END -->Angela Gilltraphttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14581311542707150813noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4486680453655185586.post-54176666180495592932011-04-24T15:03:00.001-07:002011-04-24T15:40:44.447-07:00Easter Parade<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEguC6hQ9n4Z-bH8DdtbSDgq3yQAD8a72nYut0_k5kIACB0ZPYtPggBg3mIfxh3fWscu-tL39_2I0piGC0dX2DQgAqdbXbf91CzdGaeBGJkCr8JEpL9CW4NTYSIScwT41XBXiUP2oK4dUZPY/s1600/SAM_4916.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 300px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEguC6hQ9n4Z-bH8DdtbSDgq3yQAD8a72nYut0_k5kIACB0ZPYtPggBg3mIfxh3fWscu-tL39_2I0piGC0dX2DQgAqdbXbf91CzdGaeBGJkCr8JEpL9CW4NTYSIScwT41XBXiUP2oK4dUZPY/s400/SAM_4916.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5599277305260688882" /></a>I have to admit, I'd never been to the <b>Easter Day Parade</b> before today. I figured it would be much like Manhattan's famous <b>Thanksgiving Day parad</b>e—complete with floats and claustrophobic crowds all vying for a piece of the action. But for the first time in months, the sun was shining and my friend, New York milliner <b>Anthony Maxwell</b>, promised a leisurely day in the sunshine with friends. How could I resist?<div><div><br /></div><div>Instead of oversized balloons of Disney characters, <b>5th Avenue</b> took a trip down memory lane as hundreds gathered in their Sunday best to stroll down the avenue showcasing the ultimate in Easter bonnet style. </div><div><br /></div><div>From the <b>sweet to the</b> <b>surreal</b>, it was a gorgeous day full of friendly faces and photo ops. If you didn't catch it this year, I highly recommend you work on your outfit and wow the crowds this time next year.<b> Be warned</b>: the competition is fierce.<br /><br /><br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgGogTAdWYDycRqdBlnw4Ux8HKnu-s8bD_CmJBRrBaj8Z0un7zrKMb97ufnRHsWIuzRaRgPl-h15X0jrliMge_9XeNGZKk2OAH7GQPznQfSkOK3SAo0mJbRUCdTLDAhtGmYZu8WsLjV4Jjl/s1600/SAM_4903.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 300px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgGogTAdWYDycRqdBlnw4Ux8HKnu-s8bD_CmJBRrBaj8Z0un7zrKMb97ufnRHsWIuzRaRgPl-h15X0jrliMge_9XeNGZKk2OAH7GQPznQfSkOK3SAo0mJbRUCdTLDAhtGmYZu8WsLjV4Jjl/s400/SAM_4903.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5599278733401858274" /></a><br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjBlgLHPC1HKScbKsW22HxC4cXrLtsjug5dN5PdVbNGBMjkl7EjNvSWlaraAuGpPyj8TWR6PiVL3BiHn677fiIBGqZd0L41qJPRFnjpuu8sizCfB3tY0ft2xv3mRD-q6tI5cgkmmLtudzpo/s1600/SAM_4892.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 300px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjBlgLHPC1HKScbKsW22HxC4cXrLtsjug5dN5PdVbNGBMjkl7EjNvSWlaraAuGpPyj8TWR6PiVL3BiHn677fiIBGqZd0L41qJPRFnjpuu8sizCfB3tY0ft2xv3mRD-q6tI5cgkmmLtudzpo/s400/SAM_4892.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5599279198457361330" /></a><br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj9nLgbsmPQ0yZoCnlVTKRsB8wXLO7jb5hiNpnqK0VW7wPZVI5FwOVUtCjcG7hA1j8P_tzIWxjP2W6qnhPTN-qJjJREjaU5FFzOTE0z8LS5Az74lqW_21DEG72zjge57tfkWnXqSCrCy7XK/s1600/SAM_4898.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 300px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj9nLgbsmPQ0yZoCnlVTKRsB8wXLO7jb5hiNpnqK0VW7wPZVI5FwOVUtCjcG7hA1j8P_tzIWxjP2W6qnhPTN-qJjJREjaU5FFzOTE0z8LS5Az74lqW_21DEG72zjge57tfkWnXqSCrCy7XK/s400/SAM_4898.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5599279588579767682" /></a><br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj3_lb90OyqXO4FEjQU_DnVgRcAwazen46UCnIt2iySD7o1jRZFkqhvMbCqnK_uVXyGbiaF6R1SzpDuT8oTdHwoeVCbn6q9JgpGE8SihmYeTMfoR8aLY2KIbeGSHS4cQosIx0Kyj7NDeNPD/s1600/SAM_4909.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 300px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj3_lb90OyqXO4FEjQU_DnVgRcAwazen46UCnIt2iySD7o1jRZFkqhvMbCqnK_uVXyGbiaF6R1SzpDuT8oTdHwoeVCbn6q9JgpGE8SihmYeTMfoR8aLY2KIbeGSHS4cQosIx0Kyj7NDeNPD/s400/SAM_4909.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5599281075014209746" /></a><br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjTJW9P-LnwyVCX7OVmNr-z0BPCwnK6AKFzL2LTvQTRuWd5pR1LUXZCMKRq9KxJeVw4TF_vgoBZHrPh2KQesqxQnc06DrxF0R0HSF-b2nrqqmCj-zeSpvJWWkL4MnqnZRrFZIedEytoQZBt/s1600/SAM_4888.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 300px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjTJW9P-LnwyVCX7OVmNr-z0BPCwnK6AKFzL2LTvQTRuWd5pR1LUXZCMKRq9KxJeVw4TF_vgoBZHrPh2KQesqxQnc06DrxF0R0HSF-b2nrqqmCj-zeSpvJWWkL4MnqnZRrFZIedEytoQZBt/s400/SAM_4888.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5599281923830885490" /></a><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /></div></div>Angela Gilltraphttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14581311542707150813noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4486680453655185586.post-76125102064194509932010-11-24T10:30:00.000-08:002010-11-24T10:32:30.560-08:00Sesame Street: Me Lost Me Cookie at the Disco<iframe width="425" height="344" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/kKW7TIjqZAA?fs=1" frameborder="0"></iframe><div><br /></div><div>Okay, as the trend tropic on twitter today was #CookieMonster, I couldn't help but go back in time to one of my favorite tracks of the '80s. Too funny. Particularly appropriate for Thanksgiving me thinks!</div>Angela Gilltraphttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14581311542707150813noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4486680453655185586.post-48062417835577225142010-08-22T09:19:00.001-07:002010-08-22T09:59:12.236-07:00London: Life lessons<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjn_u2BQJgW3VkyuInwGExzn4vxAsYL2WbjlBtAOaH8WB27px1dIG_hud3LcxQvL3P9HNDKD5d4A9GpJT-7bJu2iAO9lDpukjZTwiyxDBgvIkccMYNCGs8e42vkqH1d7pm06r9XmQnb9EMY/s1600/100_4528.JPG"><img style="MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; WIDTH: 400px; FLOAT: left; HEIGHT: 300px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5508277114228625874" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjn_u2BQJgW3VkyuInwGExzn4vxAsYL2WbjlBtAOaH8WB27px1dIG_hud3LcxQvL3P9HNDKD5d4A9GpJT-7bJu2iAO9lDpukjZTwiyxDBgvIkccMYNCGs8e42vkqH1d7pm06r9XmQnb9EMY/s400/100_4528.JPG" /></a>It was two days after the whole laptop debacle. In a work-induced stupor I had left my life (otherwise known as my aging PC) in the back seat of a New York taxi, complete with my monthly <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_0" class="blsp-spelling-corrected">receipts</span> — bound for an expense report — and all my notes on a new magazine I was working on. The depths of my despair was debilitating to say the least. It's hard to explain but put it this way, it made me seriously ponder how many laptop-left-in-taxi induced suicides there were per year.<br /><br />The next day I was due to board a plane to London. Would the laptop show?<br /><br />Very long story short, the answer is yes. Having had the credit card <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_1" class="blsp-spelling-corrected">receipt</span> in hand, the taxi depot were able to track down the driver who promptly returned my treasures an hour before I was due to leave for the airport. I'm not sure which was worse, the faint-worthy relief of having found it or the exhausting trauma of the past 24 hours thinking it might never show. Either way the ramifications, both good and bad, were tantamount to a slight case of Post Traumatic Stress syndrome.<br /><br />In made me realize though — as did others who went home immediately and backed up their computers — that some instances in life, a single moment in time, as trivial as they may seem to others, can be life changing. Realizing for instance that working yourself into an early grave makes time fly by all too fast, carrying thirteen bags at the one time doesn't do you any favors and most importantly, that there is always time, can make you see the world a little more clearly.<br /><br />Regardless of how busy you are, there is always time to stop and take a breath. There is always time to enjoy the moment. And today's to-do list is only tomorrow's kitty litter.<br /><br />And so, life goes on. You board the plane to London and soon find yourself sitting in a private box at the <strong>Royal Albert Hall</strong> listening to the Australian Youth Orchestra, with your own butler providing champagne and bite-sized morsels of tender, tasty treats. And you think, thank goodness you hadn't taken the jumping-off-the Brooklyn Bridge option, I'm going to enjoy each and every moment of this. And then of course, you close your eyes to savor the stunning sounds and fall off the seat having finally succumbed to sleep deprivation. Still, it was worth it.Angela Gilltraphttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14581311542707150813noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4486680453655185586.post-76256742258710239932010-06-14T15:05:00.000-07:002010-06-14T15:20:18.252-07:00St. Vincent: The view from Grenadine House<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjqky9nvQr30jFWk8rMPHg_bZii0sNtjMYOY3k12dQ-UTFvLuwlNlEPexgRYwP0TGXrV20hvi9TBu3pC8opFUH3Kr7uTOAB2P0RVfaPf-ajg5wrKLnEXSZ7cuMaEFxYRPMT0I65lN5vK8jj/s1600/100_4188.JPG"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 300px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5482754868999858770" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjqky9nvQr30jFWk8rMPHg_bZii0sNtjMYOY3k12dQ-UTFvLuwlNlEPexgRYwP0TGXrV20hvi9TBu3pC8opFUH3Kr7uTOAB2P0RVfaPf-ajg5wrKLnEXSZ7cuMaEFxYRPMT0I65lN5vK8jj/s400/100_4188.JPG" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi9cLCPuSlG8Vl6Ncscpqi2KyPc3vT7ZoPJIxrELtk-IDqpk8mNNQB66vzwnfk9Qdki_to0FNjUdsMs0N5kWTTesZ9duuAQoLAZkUkRF5QpbkHQcMhP1t4ZTlzVLJ8LfJcLbPJsAng3up-w/s1600/100_4185.JPG"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 300px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5482754505393123762" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi9cLCPuSlG8Vl6Ncscpqi2KyPc3vT7ZoPJIxrELtk-IDqpk8mNNQB66vzwnfk9Qdki_to0FNjUdsMs0N5kWTTesZ9duuAQoLAZkUkRF5QpbkHQcMhP1t4ZTlzVLJ8LfJcLbPJsAng3up-w/s400/100_4185.JPG" /></a> <br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjg_168aQs7QHfRkRSnNdli-ioc38aG29qYUBbaavK6phkEhGyawja9EbrC5km14hT1Inruej4yM0vSOZwHeVmgbjsB2CE8l3L_Xago7XbT4fh5Y8EygrUNrNwq7S_nuZHqNboas08kx6dO/s1600/100_4182.JPG"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 300px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 400px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5482757032857029906" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjg_168aQs7QHfRkRSnNdli-ioc38aG29qYUBbaavK6phkEhGyawja9EbrC5km14hT1Inruej4yM0vSOZwHeVmgbjsB2CE8l3L_Xago7XbT4fh5Y8EygrUNrNwq7S_nuZHqNboas08kx6dO/s400/100_4182.JPG" /></a>Angela Gilltraphttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14581311542707150813noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4486680453655185586.post-10714489631407250692010-06-07T15:00:00.000-07:002010-06-07T17:55:20.284-07:00Movie: Hachiko, A Dog’s Tale<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiafPqd99ilvltGwNl3rcmzri6PDVsPCrvAjrO4j-jwsf_fsu7ya6LK37slnTQhRnFSccg3d5CQJN1QK0o9gRIURCxFWp6Y_PFSgmNtuBTzJ666bvJjyUFjtjHLlsoiaiAlvKNeO98w7Ebr/s1600/hachiko_poster_japan.jpg"><img style="MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; WIDTH: 283px; FLOAT: left; HEIGHT: 400px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5479267047109988018" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiafPqd99ilvltGwNl3rcmzri6PDVsPCrvAjrO4j-jwsf_fsu7ya6LK37slnTQhRnFSccg3d5CQJN1QK0o9gRIURCxFWp6Y_PFSgmNtuBTzJ666bvJjyUFjtjHLlsoiaiAlvKNeO98w7Ebr/s400/hachiko_poster_japan.jpg" /></a>Based on a true story, this feel-good, tear-jerker will have you running for the Kleenex. Produced and starring Richard Gere, this little indie film proved a hit at the inaugural Aruba International Film Festival. Gere was there to introduce the film himself as ambassador of this year’s event and with true, heart felt sincerity gave a humble overview of the film's plot.<br />The storyline revolves around the disarmingly cute, Hachiko, an Akita puppy found abandoned at the train station by Professor Parker Wilson (played by Richard Gere). After finding no owner, the Wilson family takes the Japanese pure bred into their homes and hearts. Over the years Hachiko and Wilson become inseparable showing the kind of unconditional love only an animal can provide. Without giving away the story’s pivotal moment, it’s needless to say this movie personifies the kind of unconditional love, loyalty and compassion seldom found in mankind.<br /><br />Whether you're a dog lover or not, <strong><em>Hachiko, A Dog's Tale</em></strong> is well worth a watch. Along the lines of <em>The Notebook</em> my only advice is to be ready to wail.<br /><br />Despite dignatries, media personalities and celebraties present at the opening night screening, there was not a dry eye in the house. An occasion stiffled snort even managed to escape from the well dressed.Angela Gilltraphttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14581311542707150813noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4486680453655185586.post-46281627712904191772010-06-07T05:37:00.000-07:002010-06-07T08:27:18.748-07:00Aruba: Aboard the Mi Dushi<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjNTsbrR3n7rNBa-g3fEvi2f9oGxeWijGZl-h_F1Hy9nCAPRdvSgDuGjnhyrWg-sTIdH0OviL_hu3wf4tpuFchQl7bVkx27EkVnyoOOwzkXx_Jw0BhCwXtTY3_L6LRP7XKF8bZ222U9A5PE/s1600/100_4092.JPG"><img style="MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; WIDTH: 300px; FLOAT: left; HEIGHT: 400px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5479269247621212130" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjNTsbrR3n7rNBa-g3fEvi2f9oGxeWijGZl-h_F1Hy9nCAPRdvSgDuGjnhyrWg-sTIdH0OviL_hu3wf4tpuFchQl7bVkx27EkVnyoOOwzkXx_Jw0BhCwXtTY3_L6LRP7XKF8bZ222U9A5PE/s400/100_4092.JPG" /></a>Under the gorgeous Aruban sky, the Mi Dushi set sail for crystal blue waters with a crew of suntanned staff and a ship full of enthusiastic holiday makers on board. The first stop: Antilla Shipwreck.<br /><br />Admittedly, I'm not the first to dive into open ocean (thanks, to my Australian heritage which includes a healthy respect for things that eat you) however, after much reassurance I dove in and swam out to the decades old shipwreck—a WWII remnant with a rich history, even richer marine life. In rough waters, myself and my crew (fellow journalists Shira Levine and Jessica Herman), stuck together to battle the waves. It was the most exercise I've done in years!<br /><br />Next stop was much calmer and in fact, I stayed in the water longer than ever, possibly because of the company, possibly because of the little fishies on show in the warm, crystal clear water temperature. From there it was lunch and cocktails as we sailed through the bluest water, Bob Marley playing in the background, the sun warming us from the inside out.<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjFgKkCwDIAyO3UYWaFS5ozJkSk7U1NsRhXkxbriNLhG-n_8gEtpX6h8nyCN-VfmgWA1raZhuZ-oLb_zWg9tVv2BkYxfh0dPUGV1QfUIrP1GiKrWI-664DEYiFUKjyGjGP45VRd8RPGcTy3/s1600/100_4093.JPG"><img style="MARGIN: 0px 0px 10px 10px; WIDTH: 150px; FLOAT: right; HEIGHT: 200px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5480048373093385650" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjFgKkCwDIAyO3UYWaFS5ozJkSk7U1NsRhXkxbriNLhG-n_8gEtpX6h8nyCN-VfmgWA1raZhuZ-oLb_zWg9tVv2BkYxfh0dPUGV1QfUIrP1GiKrWI-664DEYiFUKjyGjGP45VRd8RPGcTy3/s200/100_4093.JPG" /></a><br /><br />After several other adventurous endevours (I did a tandum, rope swing, back flip into the ocean!) we headed back to shore.<br /><br />For someone who has become so blaze about the tropics this was, in all honesty, the most fun I've had in years. If you head to Aruba, jump on board the Mi Dushi, you won't be disappointed.Angela Gilltraphttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14581311542707150813noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4486680453655185586.post-65880386053046300322010-06-06T08:19:00.000-07:002010-06-07T07:57:48.298-07:00Aruba: It all started with lunch...<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhPwwEdJYuw6I6J8w2TMcdh9GDtJnPNwQclzQlmjsTpZys9oOhEMGCL-ZTRahZcoA0SWXsOX-XmDWjnaW5TM3P5IkVYLSDMOTkAhcf2h1TOGYlIU_WvWeVW-AHJRqJDykSNrUc-K3g7dHT5/s1600/images.jpg"><img style="MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; WIDTH: 93px; FLOAT: left; HEIGHT: 109px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5480045211447339986" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhPwwEdJYuw6I6J8w2TMcdh9GDtJnPNwQclzQlmjsTpZys9oOhEMGCL-ZTRahZcoA0SWXsOX-XmDWjnaW5TM3P5IkVYLSDMOTkAhcf2h1TOGYlIU_WvWeVW-AHJRqJDykSNrUc-K3g7dHT5/s320/images.jpg" /></a>It was several months ago that I first met Aruba’s Minister of Tourism, <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_0" class="blsp-spelling-error">Otmar</span> E. <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_1" class="blsp-spelling-error">Oduber</span>. Over a delicious lunch of scrumptious seafood and farm fresh salads, I experienced first hand the newly appointed Ministers passion and boundless energy for transforming Aruba.<br /><br />A plan that included showcasing everything this Island paradise had to offer; the friendly locals, the laid back lifestyle and the tropical climate mixed with cultural and culinary events that would see visitors return year after year. Through his formal speech and more interestingly, over an informal meal I was able to catch a glimpse of the innovative and ambitious initiatives he had envisaged for the island he so loves.<br /><br />Apart from world class music festivals, the first Aruba International Film Festival was an event he was proud to announce at that day’s luncheon. As I said a tentative yes to attending, it was somewhat surreal to find myself among the palm trees seated with other international journalists to see the many days, months and years of planning come to fruition with great success.Angela Gilltraphttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14581311542707150813noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4486680453655185586.post-85678225059998600262010-05-31T12:05:00.000-07:002010-05-31T14:33:31.381-07:00Montreal: Ateliers et Saveurs<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi9jpTHZTrPpyv_APV99vLUqOYY-VakSuFH4KGWKWAqk0VhYY_8weYD3D0H2ygJhl2zFM2bzyt3jyJdxrSTRNCWm4cfHOo68n4oFL6F_dn1trlFdvDP2hv9DW47fiVPs_EG49UgNqM-GSDB/s1600/ciaomontreal_atelierssaveur_thumb.jpg"><img style="MARGIN: 0px 0px 10px 10px; WIDTH: 320px; FLOAT: right; HEIGHT: 320px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5475753235136816194" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi9jpTHZTrPpyv_APV99vLUqOYY-VakSuFH4KGWKWAqk0VhYY_8weYD3D0H2ygJhl2zFM2bzyt3jyJdxrSTRNCWm4cfHOo68n4oFL6F_dn1trlFdvDP2hv9DW47fiVPs_EG49UgNqM-GSDB/s320/ciaomontreal_atelierssaveur_thumb.jpg" /></a> <strong><em>"I never have more than one drink before dinner. But I do like that one to be large and very strong and very cold and very well-made."</em></strong> Yes, James Bond. I agree.<br /><br />One of the first things you notice when you enter Ateliers & Savuers are the light fixtures. Specially designed and created by lighting artist François Legault of UNIK Sculptural Lighting you realize immediately that this is no ordinary culinary school.<br /><br />A spiral chandelier featuring 260 spoons shines above, in the wine tasting room a 7 foot-long pendant lamp of 476 spoons and 21 Champagne flutes draws your near, on the walls espresso cups act as sconces.<br /><br />"We designed them especially," says Parisian-born sommelier and co-owner Arnaud Ferrand. And indeed no expense has been spared in this half a million dollar restoration. Housed in a heritage building in Old Montreal, Ateliers et Saveurs is unique to this metropolitan city offering cooking, cocktail and wine classes to locals and tourists alike.<br /><br />With so much to take in — attractive, young clientele, gorgeous decor — it was hard to know where to look as we waited our turn for our Friday night cocktail class after all, if the food you lovingly cook is more delicious, than surely the cocktail you shake is far superior - and possibly more toxic!<br /><br />Armed with nothing but our enthusiasm (part of the allure of going to elsewhere to make cocktails) the four of us girls waited patiently for our turn at the bar, props at the ready. The class was sold out and so two rotations of budding bar tenders took it in turns to turn mere ingredients into the nectar of the Gods - or at least die trying.<br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgb68RKcVDAi-SYsch_F8C28nRyIUMkgMXkA3oDAn4BvmxBjITfpPwt4ghRGHTXhh4nkKx5tMBX2o0YYFsF3cq6prT56vZna5RLK5THY9J8bqiL9MFbz9hZRlcMVv2ezVlU8aqDNwZgnroX/s1600/ateliers_saveurs_logo.png"><img style="MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; WIDTH: 166px; FLOAT: left; HEIGHT: 92px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5475749114507919874" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgb68RKcVDAi-SYsch_F8C28nRyIUMkgMXkA3oDAn4BvmxBjITfpPwt4ghRGHTXhh4nkKx5tMBX2o0YYFsF3cq6prT56vZna5RLK5THY9J8bqiL9MFbz9hZRlcMVv2ezVlU8aqDNwZgnroX/s400/ateliers_saveurs_logo.png" /></a>The first cocktail was a classic Margarita.<br /><br />As the ingredients were poured and the instructions translated for us English speakers, the music got pumping and all involved shook and shimmied like there was no tomorrow. The result, a perfect Margarita worthy of the best Manhattan watering hole.<br /><br />We created three cocktails in all with special shot pouring classes topping off the night. As you can imagine the atmosphere was quite festive by then, strangers becoming friends, work foes becoming allies. Thankfully, a delicious array of h'ordeuvres were also served to help soak up all that fun!<br /><br />All in all, I couldn't recommend it highly enough. The price you pay for three or four hours of fun is less than it would cost to purchase the drinks and definitely less than it would cost for the ingredients alone. Even better, you could put this down as an educational experience - much more socially acceptable than a mere night on the town (of course, this is a great prelude to that too, if you so wish).Angela Gilltraphttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14581311542707150813noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4486680453655185586.post-51388922429042712472010-05-31T12:00:00.000-07:002010-05-31T14:33:05.081-07:00Montreal: La Buvette Chez Simone<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiylPNWcVuzeJf-WTMUKX1VmOytYjsKp4avr48rzNhAaRJXwIJswXuuaLs07s4uemxkz7k-RyDDY85lTpUtiQq_CuGAeHh82mmVfKG153Pwl1ucROB0w5f8uyRAespHXPvemTU1l8fBlJUF/s1600/45841_1.jpg"><img style="MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; WIDTH: 220px; FLOAT: left; HEIGHT: 285px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5474879316816081874" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiylPNWcVuzeJf-WTMUKX1VmOytYjsKp4avr48rzNhAaRJXwIJswXuuaLs07s4uemxkz7k-RyDDY85lTpUtiQq_CuGAeHh82mmVfKG153Pwl1ucROB0w5f8uyRAespHXPvemTU1l8fBlJUF/s400/45841_1.jpg" /></a> As in Europe, dinner in Montreal is best served family-style, with delectable portions of amazing goodies arranged so that you can enjoy the food (and the company) at leisure. La <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_0" class="blsp-spelling-error">Buvette</span> <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_1" class="blsp-spelling-error">Chez</span> Simone on Park Avenue in Place <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_2" class="blsp-spelling-error">des</span> Arts, has this sort of dining down to an <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_3" class="blsp-spelling-corrected">art form</span>. Hip yet unpretentious, this neighborhood institution brings together locals, dates and diners to enjoy an array of tapas-style dishes arranged with a stylist's eye, as delicious as five star dining. This is the sort of place where time flies and lifetime friendships are cemented.<br /><br /><span id="SPELLING_ERROR_4" class="blsp-spelling-error">Buvette</span> <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_5" class="blsp-spelling-error">Chez</span> Simone<br />4869, avenue <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_6" class="blsp-spelling-error">du</span> <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_7" class="blsp-spelling-error">Parc</span><br /><span id="SPELLING_ERROR_8" class="blsp-spelling-error">Rés</span>.: 514 750-6577Angela Gilltraphttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14581311542707150813noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4486680453655185586.post-64259872398875269662010-05-31T10:00:00.000-07:002010-05-31T10:00:00.630-07:00OPUS MONTREAL: Stylish digs for the hipAh, Montréal. I forgot everyone speaks French here. It seems as if I have been politely ignoring the entire population over the last fews month as I find myself in foreign countries with no idea what anyone is saying. Add to my confusion that the first thing I hear upon entering my gorgeous room in the Opus Hotel is Kylie Minogue’s “Locomotion.” Being an Australian/New Yorker in French/English speaking Montreal this can get a little confusing.<br /><br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjaQCV17L1bqGKrTK3HAKXr5K57ZYSjxIal2aKb4OOW2izTZLbLqc4_v_dmjbroiDyB6S7Rb3Tq0xBDiOOD_qeuGVuzLFTMlCZEH-_uCcwSteXJiS5Tl0E6JIEjfzruzDvQoPrJvT2YRSXa/s1600/100_3900.JPG"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 300px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5474877341293588210" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjaQCV17L1bqGKrTK3HAKXr5K57ZYSjxIal2aKb4OOW2izTZLbLqc4_v_dmjbroiDyB6S7Rb3Tq0xBDiOOD_qeuGVuzLFTMlCZEH-_uCcwSteXJiS5Tl0E6JIEjfzruzDvQoPrJvT2YRSXa/s400/100_3900.JPG" /></a>Having finally come to grips with it all, I did my initial room inspection and found all the amenities I so love; a coffee machine, nice sized bathroom, L’Occitane products, modern décor and fabulous bar awaiting us downstairs. The only slightly misleading amenity being the complimentary wireless which, like many hotels these days, is only in the common areas.<br /><br />One of the only Canadian hotel chains, Opus has four hotels within Canada. The Montreal addition is two years old and has quickly made a name for itself as the place-to-be on weekends — possibly the reason for the ear plugs next to the bed. Situated on the corner of Saint Laurent, one of Montreal's trendiest streets, it's perfectly situated for a weekend getaway.<br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjnNAfMNUX-p8EBesrqdnk2w-6EYcvq69jN4cHeXIS6AtVrwS2Gu6-ByzWLR2N0D1BQ6dQ3gkLZGKwpLkNj3MAvAClc0xTVAPWGBIqWFkT8aKfqCYNZNUmSAT7pFWGrnYwO4FgWWAHvTKNU/s1600/100_3904.JPG"><img style="MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; WIDTH: 240px; FLOAT: left; HEIGHT: 320px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5474876912498939234" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjnNAfMNUX-p8EBesrqdnk2w-6EYcvq69jN4cHeXIS6AtVrwS2Gu6-ByzWLR2N0D1BQ6dQ3gkLZGKwpLkNj3MAvAClc0xTVAPWGBIqWFkT8aKfqCYNZNUmSAT7pFWGrnYwO4FgWWAHvTKNU/s320/100_3904.JPG" /></a>Settling down for a quick nap pre-meet and greet, I flicked through the hotel’s encyclopaedia of amenities and found a great addition: “The Tips” sheet listing the most happening events for the month. Using fictional lifestyle muses; Billy, the enlightened rockstar, Susan, the fashion exec, Pierre, the food critic, Dede, the film actress and Mike, the doctor it outlines five off the must-see hip happenings around town. Written by Zink Canada editor, Simona Rabinovitch it gives you an insiders guide to the city of Montreal something all of us need on a trip away.Angela Gilltraphttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14581311542707150813noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4486680453655185586.post-71100294095683150792010-05-30T21:30:00.000-07:002010-05-30T21:30:00.661-07:00St Louis: Cielo<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhuB6oBzzNVJ5tMWmeYjX28Gc8zmY2_8-iQQH0NIOxB0vpfQDC_QrOOM6pr_6JTHa0nNSG30JEPcoIBRKyGFEMCy-2sI4tWk91AZKkjtns_m_1biHViVt4CLbY2cFazGiDZWi3acB2zDm1Y/s1600/STL_056_256x320.jpg"><img style="MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; WIDTH: 256px; FLOAT: left; HEIGHT: 320px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5477237664391671650" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhuB6oBzzNVJ5tMWmeYjX28Gc8zmY2_8-iQQH0NIOxB0vpfQDC_QrOOM6pr_6JTHa0nNSG30JEPcoIBRKyGFEMCy-2sI4tWk91AZKkjtns_m_1biHViVt4CLbY2cFazGiDZWi3acB2zDm1Y/s400/STL_056_256x320.jpg" /></a>Our final night in St. Louis and Cielo Restaurant, in the newly opened Four Seasons Hotel, played host to an amazing four-course dinner, perfectly portioned and expertly paired with a wide variety of wines from the hotel's resident somelier. Conversation was barely audible over the plethora of diners gathering for the much sought after sights, sounds, tastes and delights of Cielo.<br /><br /><div><div>Floor-to-ceiling glass panels showcase the illuminated skyline in the restaurant's beautifully designed dining room. Beyond the rectangular swimming pool, hot tub and cabana area, the St. Louis arch is visible in all its glory- a definite highlight for July 4th celebrations. </div><div> </div><div>Spring ramps risotto with roasted quail breast and pearl tomatoes kicked off a magnificent offering by Chef, Marc Kusche, paired with a 2007 Viogneir from Mt. Harlan. </div><br /><br /><div></div>The main event of pan seared halibut with diver scallop, cauliflower puree and red wine reduction was cooked to perfection and served with a stylists' eye. Paired with a tasty Santa Maria Pinot Noir it was exactly what the doctor ordered after days of gluttony in the name of culinary research.<br /><br /><div>Clean, tasty and fresh, an intermediate dish, designed to cleanse the palette and add a further dimension to the evenings courses was served by way of calamansi lime sorbetto with amaretti and dried plum sauce. </div><br /><div>Finally, dessert of an organic chamomile panna cotta with Kumquat semifreddo cielo mint syrup and apricot sorbetto was served up thanks to Pastry Chef, Christopher Jordan. Paired with a Riesling Ice Wine from Mission Hills, Five Vineyards, Canada it was perhaps a fitting segue to my next adventure to Montreal. </div></div>Angela Gilltraphttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14581311542707150813noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4486680453655185586.post-76061387465841924432010-05-26T12:43:00.000-07:002010-05-26T12:53:17.536-07:00Casino Secrets: Crimes against interior design<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEigqBCcPivu_HyBYkI4rwyA3a-EH3Zi56wrWtyS8zEnaTcsFSrxSYSWxWAUH2Vd7xEVGA9laQKZ20TjavvvYDXaV0YElQnoii6KkYnGgBtbarqGUvm-jtNzXegkwgQGEXZpcsFtp6xFNtXP/s1600/100_3833.JPG"><img style="MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; WIDTH: 300px; FLOAT: left; HEIGHT: 400px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5475667552994724386" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEigqBCcPivu_HyBYkI4rwyA3a-EH3Zi56wrWtyS8zEnaTcsFSrxSYSWxWAUH2Vd7xEVGA9laQKZ20TjavvvYDXaV0YElQnoii6KkYnGgBtbarqGUvm-jtNzXegkwgQGEXZpcsFtp6xFNtXP/s400/100_3833.JPG" /></a>Have you ever wondered why the carpet in casinos — worldwide — looks like someone vomitted in hypercolor then doodled aimlessly in every direction? "It's pyschological warfare," says one trusted insider. "The idea is to keep the guests' eyes up, looking towards the gaming area."<br /><br />When on the floor of one such casino it would seem the technique works. Overwhelmed by the many zig zags, patterns and colors all colliding without rhyme or reason, your eyes can't help but seek refuge ahead.<br /><br />So next time you'd like to draw attention away from your flooring and onto your new framed travel photos you may want to employ this technique. You can use last night's left overs or simply use party string for that extra something special. Food for thought...Angela Gilltraphttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14581311542707150813noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4486680453655185586.post-61870910403710138392010-05-26T12:05:00.000-07:002010-05-26T12:14:14.974-07:00St. Louis: Curiosities from the zoo<div align="center"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhizr0NMRY2iKmehUUrJODIJ2yE30V5vZNVIZCWbtIr2blKAYo1ysyOCg0uasnD_5zOAJeaPxfMdKhPhPuQoZAGtHMDmeDKpKH7Ppqg1WARzFU-B55bzTX8GDlNJmIPgzkIGbkkmYGl2CK4/s1600/100_3880.JPG"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 300px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 400px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5475657376027795314" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhizr0NMRY2iKmehUUrJODIJ2yE30V5vZNVIZCWbtIr2blKAYo1ysyOCg0uasnD_5zOAJeaPxfMdKhPhPuQoZAGtHMDmeDKpKH7Ppqg1WARzFU-B55bzTX8GDlNJmIPgzkIGbkkmYGl2CK4/s400/100_3880.JPG" /></a> <strong>Mm... an artistic replica of a dead deer in the tree. </strong></div><div align="center"><strong>No I did not put it there!</strong> </div><div align="center"></div><div align="center"><br /></div><br /><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 300px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 400px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5475657814558364210" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgl6cAXpvL0H-0f0e-x5AL2wVsc-AkxOGLkrRDTxlnwEjsE8n_2AsWXbaIgSWjjd667tEMKpmPgQ-cVGJw39M-hrhiQ3xDmx93vwzKM5QYYWT8RPPimMQltjeH0FEbIRw4SvCNc81M9uVZ-/s400/100_3885.JPG" /> <p align="center"><strong>There is something not quite right about this statue...</strong><br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhBqU_RWDfX2i34vWvDOMeVTQTxPLopbP1exVz4dDDF0GC9Xm-M8_p1cHkej-i-dlM1cRmQ6IGdJpSjz6y_tlpNnOLCA3jXKgy4S361mBDL83Kcvfh58U1z_yXEXW3baDRLNBkDgahsm_VI/s1600/100_3895.JPG"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 300px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5475658302162948418" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhBqU_RWDfX2i34vWvDOMeVTQTxPLopbP1exVz4dDDF0GC9Xm-M8_p1cHkej-i-dlM1cRmQ6IGdJpSjz6y_tlpNnOLCA3jXKgy4S361mBDL83Kcvfh58U1z_yXEXW3baDRLNBkDgahsm_VI/s400/100_3895.JPG" /></p><p align="center"></a> <strong>These might just be the world's ugliest camels </strong></p><p align="center"><strong>(but I'm sure they have great personalities!).</strong> </p>Angela Gilltraphttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14581311542707150813noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4486680453655185586.post-4581352572544598062010-05-25T08:00:00.000-07:002010-05-26T18:43:21.998-07:00St. Louis Zoo: Adventures with my driver<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhw31Dc4g3MgPhswgiHU2Og_8xQadgXyEz4eOnyT3KkVeYOLAKMIZKCQzJT_Y-FkqpmwgQJUgpEzcMI63NeTNai0VeivgG28-g62Fbe2rJSB0cSKX8yKSTr_gb4MOfc2hC2o2yNKNwUY3EQ/s1600/100_3863.JPG"><img style="MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; WIDTH: 226px; FLOAT: left; HEIGHT: 162px" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5472241852992952242" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhw31Dc4g3MgPhswgiHU2Og_8xQadgXyEz4eOnyT3KkVeYOLAKMIZKCQzJT_Y-FkqpmwgQJUgpEzcMI63NeTNai0VeivgG28-g62Fbe2rJSB0cSKX8yKSTr_gb4MOfc2hC2o2yNKNwUY3EQ/s320/100_3863.JPG" /></a>A black SUV was waiting to transport me to the St. Louis Zoo. The others in my group had predictably chosen grown-up options, such as the brewery tour and a trip to the arches, I was niether ashamed nor envious about my somewhat childish choice. In fact, I was frickin excited.<br /><br />My request for clear, blue skies had been denied by the St. Louis weather department however, nothing could dampen my spirits. Like an annoying eight year old, I peppered my driver with questions about the zoo; What animals do they have? Is it big? How big? Do they have elephants? What about tigers?<br /><br />I had worn my sneakers as it was going to be a quick tour but I was determined to see as much as possible in my short amount of time. So much so that I almost flew out of the black-tinted windowed car as soon as we stopped.<br /><br />Alex galantly escorted me through the entire zoo, complete with his three piece suit, dress shoes and umbrella over my head to shield me from the weather. Although I would have been happy to see it by myself it was much more fun with someone else in tow.<br /><br />My favorite was his commentary. Upon seeing an enclosure and no animal, I would ask, "what's supposed to be in here?" searching for the animal hidden away trying to live with dignity. He would reply, "It's probably dead." in his great Russian accent. This became a running gag, that and his eagerness to wake every animal from their slumber for my amusement. At one point he offered to take a duckling for me as a gift, I had to stop him from chasing the poor little thing down the road and into the pond. Overall, awesome zoo. Great driver. Thanks Alex!<br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgnJthuX3p0bXVvAmGi_RYHjWeVPYYsY2E-Zzl_4R9zG4wdNT9KYRmgebk28N67oNHV1GrCsbFd-kPgDfVIKNUW2MziUfUIdwSKs8oxeEadjdM35ft7TfWG_E7SRIKlhURXtc0iB7oa4c4r/s1600/100_3882.JPG"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 300px" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5472242066398605762" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgnJthuX3p0bXVvAmGi_RYHjWeVPYYsY2E-Zzl_4R9zG4wdNT9KYRmgebk28N67oNHV1GrCsbFd-kPgDfVIKNUW2MziUfUIdwSKs8oxeEadjdM35ft7TfWG_E7SRIKlhURXtc0iB7oa4c4r/s400/100_3882.JPG" /></a><br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj4_zohC-EWqLpIrsW17aVlgwJoGmBhgpbx_V-n6noBI9pEnuRj1vVFbUCLJlA_UlaOw3ng8GyUCszuctPF8G9DpFLEez4MPl6PzwIlePV0UmeKyh9f384HB_IvIETV9-hv3fRIPgF5m5Oa/s1600/100_3869.JPG"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 300px" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5472242433247339746" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj4_zohC-EWqLpIrsW17aVlgwJoGmBhgpbx_V-n6noBI9pEnuRj1vVFbUCLJlA_UlaOw3ng8GyUCszuctPF8G9DpFLEez4MPl6PzwIlePV0UmeKyh9f384HB_IvIETV9-hv3fRIPgF5m5Oa/s400/100_3869.JPG" /></a><br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhbIVev0AERkFx-YRYtRDejf-bc58fLfWvXxOxe0i6ssFn0BOc2X-p9y6721cDO75n7EsNBljT7NBHJafRdgOq-_UgoBWTwjn9bg5NzgbkYdwg1aPKc0kmci1UjEqYFf0Ulr4v_XwsFZZds/s1600/100_3886.JPG"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 300px" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5472242934074732242" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhbIVev0AERkFx-YRYtRDejf-bc58fLfWvXxOxe0i6ssFn0BOc2X-p9y6721cDO75n7EsNBljT7NBHJafRdgOq-_UgoBWTwjn9bg5NzgbkYdwg1aPKc0kmci1UjEqYFf0Ulr4v_XwsFZZds/s400/100_3886.JPG" /></a>Angela Gilltraphttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14581311542707150813noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4486680453655185586.post-41888221349671345322010-05-24T12:13:00.000-07:002010-05-26T12:42:51.487-07:00St. Louis: 1904 Beerhouse<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh4CUrQ-bXw9_DKZ4lDkT5n792lrtyZime7eO0vjGXInzCGKPyCcI-0HGarPRXzzlc_WI_FWwhe4Ss4qNRfTIIAX23bT3uWJjjESoynceUZmSk-fH1oEl8mQliEv__lTBxhYQsjh37swAH1/s1600/1904_Beerhouse_Review_St_Louis-300x200.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 300px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 200px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5475661127449780786" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh4CUrQ-bXw9_DKZ4lDkT5n792lrtyZime7eO0vjGXInzCGKPyCcI-0HGarPRXzzlc_WI_FWwhe4Ss4qNRfTIIAX23bT3uWJjjESoynceUZmSk-fH1oEl8mQliEv__lTBxhYQsjh37swAH1/s400/1904_Beerhouse_Review_St_Louis-300x200.jpg" /></a> You've heard of wine pairings but have you ever signed up for a beer pairing? Not to be outdone, the 1904 <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_0" class="blsp-spelling-error">Beerhouse</span>, within the walls of the new Riverside Casino in St. Louis, provides everything a beer novice — or <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_1" class="blsp-spelling-corrected">connoisseur</span> for that matter — may enjoy. With over 100 beers available (32 on tap) this restaurant has become a destination in itself.<br /><br />I strongly suggest the mini beer tasting (below) where you can choose a selection of tempting delights in mini sizes. Executive Chef William Gideon (who has cooked for numerous presidents, culinary masters and even the lovely Julia <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_2" class="blsp-spelling-error">Childs</span>) creates exquisite meals of the highest quality to live up to your culinary ideals.<br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjl7_dngxd2Tt-Zbsy53u2d8cl9fAUklhSH64CE8r6qK1zoXCYWQVy4Z9TGYFJOfbkgCnliZumuPxZXprOPa9DzGluyux6mlBjbt1ju983y64CZtAlXDHUm72JqRxG6gQ6UjLtMzmnp44Vu/s1600/100_3844.JPG"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 300px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5475663241544487634" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjl7_dngxd2Tt-Zbsy53u2d8cl9fAUklhSH64CE8r6qK1zoXCYWQVy4Z9TGYFJOfbkgCnliZumuPxZXprOPa9DzGluyux6mlBjbt1ju983y64CZtAlXDHUm72JqRxG6gQ6UjLtMzmnp44Vu/s400/100_3844.JPG" /></a><br /><br />If you're unable to get to St. Louis right away here is a taste of what's on offer with Gideon's recipe for a restaurant favorite.<br /><br /><strong>Wisconsin <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_3" class="blsp-spelling-error">Native's</span> Beer Cheese Soup</strong><br /><br />The recipe is the foundation to the 1904 <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_4" class="blsp-spelling-error">Beerhouse</span>’s Beer & Cheese Soup<br /><br />•1 1/2 cups diced carrots<br />•1 1/2 cups diced onion<br />•1 1/2 cups diced celery<br />•2 cloves garlic, minced<br />•1 teaspoon hot pepper sauce<br />•1/8 teaspoon cayenne pepper<br />•1/2 teaspoon salt<br />•1/4 teaspoon black pepper<br />•3 cups chicken broth<br />•2 cups beer<br />•1/ 3 cup butter<br />•1/3 cup flour<br />•4 cups milk or half and half<br />•6 cups shredded sharp Cheddar cheese<br />•1 tablespoon Dijon mustard<br />•2 teaspoons Worcestershire sauce<br />•1 teaspoon dry mustard<br />•popped popcorn, for garnish (optional)<br />In a large saucepan over medium heat, stir together carrots, onion, celery, and garlic. Stir in hot pepper sauce, cayenne pepper, salt, and pepper. Pour in chicken broth and beer; simmer until vegetables are tender, about 12 minutes. Remove from heat.<br /><br />Meanwhile, heat butter in a large soup pot over medium-high heat. Stir in flour with a wire whisk; cook, stirring until the flour is light brown, about 3 or 4 minutes. Gradually stir in milk, whisking to prevent scorching, until thickened. Remove from heat, and gradually stir in cheese. Keep warm.<br /><br />Stir beer mixture into cheese mixture. Stir in Dijon mustard, Worcestershire sauce, and dry mustard. Adjust for hot pepper sauce. Bring to a simmer, and cook 10 minutes.Angela Gilltraphttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14581311542707150813noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4486680453655185586.post-39131480316158417502010-05-24T11:44:00.000-07:002010-05-24T12:13:35.844-07:00St. Louis: House of Savoy<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjyBkav9DcZ_SF97pyHM9lZZEKeVKIJ0GR_2TGGtHWTo2kCO9KTSvoTtIdAN7LtbEJcfdX3lbzMlg_TjtAqPWCDxelPz_cSEcW2ME40fchA7H2nSxuj_YJ6w3XhMkBVbWQgd8he68joz4WE/s1600/logo_savoy.gif"><img style="MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; WIDTH: 193px; FLOAT: left; HEIGHT: 99px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5474914854170144162" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjyBkav9DcZ_SF97pyHM9lZZEKeVKIJ0GR_2TGGtHWTo2kCO9KTSvoTtIdAN7LtbEJcfdX3lbzMlg_TjtAqPWCDxelPz_cSEcW2ME40fchA7H2nSxuj_YJ6w3XhMkBVbWQgd8he68joz4WE/s400/logo_savoy.gif" /></a>After cocktails in the Cascade lobby at HoteLumière, dinner was served at the New Age Italian Tuscan Grill, <strong>House of Savoy</strong>. Despite being gluten-free this restaurant had more than enough options to keep everyone happy.<br /><br />A tasting menu that tested the boundaries of culinary gluttony, it was difficult to leave even a morsel on our plates after dish after dish of tasty Italian fare was served. Chicago reporter Lisa Davis and Recommend's Adria Valdes were also on hand to try it out.<br /><br />Our own private sommelier joined us with an exquisite selection of wines to accompany each course while Executive Chef Mark French was on hand for any culinary queries. Some standouts in the appetizer department included the beef carpaccio with mushrooms, sun dried tomatoes, capers and shaved parmigiano, the savoy raw bar of fresh shucked oysters and jumbo chilled shrimp, and tasty antipasto plate with imported cheeses, Italian cured meats, roasted peppers and olives.<br /><br /><br />For the main course, options ranging from seafood risotto to dry aged porterhouse keep even the pickiest eaters happy. Competitively priced, with a relaxed atmosphere and great service, it's well worth a try.Angela Gilltraphttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14581311542707150813noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4486680453655185586.post-58229727767446275952010-05-24T11:30:00.000-07:002010-05-24T12:30:38.735-07:00St. Louis: Four Seasons Style<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhA4m_Njdi21Y-KjSH6fpOB056kDBsJsiv0Ymqo-QhQsG7k6aecPkrYnhY_xSwfiTAH0zMC1cmZfAyOPM-Rb_iaqBtqFxa2KeOAb3x0NVDxCLejqLZQhNIPgDhidDRyisaWGePN2S3gEeK_/s1600/STL_024_394x493.jpg"><img style="MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; WIDTH: 256px; FLOAT: left; HEIGHT: 320px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5471112447982580354" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhA4m_Njdi21Y-KjSH6fpOB056kDBsJsiv0Ymqo-QhQsG7k6aecPkrYnhY_xSwfiTAH0zMC1cmZfAyOPM-Rb_iaqBtqFxa2KeOAb3x0NVDxCLejqLZQhNIPgDhidDRyisaWGePN2S3gEeK_/s320/STL_024_394x493.jpg" /></a>A sports bag was awaiting me when I checked into my room at <strong>The Four Seasons St. Louis</strong>. At first glance it looked like someone had accidently left it there. Housekeeping? A forgetful sports player? I looked around the spotless room, obviously it was already made up, so one would assume the bag was meant for me but as my Dad likes to say, "to ass-u-me makes an ass out of u and me."<br /><br />Ever curious, I approached with caution. Surely the contents would be the deciding factor. I peered in to find a set of golf balls, a photo frame and a number of other objects. I made a note to ask my contact when we met later that evening and dared not pry anymore just in case... Instead I went to take a quick tour of my room.<br /><br />Situated on the eighteenth floor in the gorgeous <strong>Four Seasons Hotel St. Louis</strong>, my room overlooked the towering St. Louis Arches. A home-away-from-home for the rich and famous, the hotel is situated minutes from the CBD, a part of the <strong>Lumière Place entertanment complex</strong>. With all the amenities one would expect from the Four Seasons it was the perfect place to rest my weary head. A gigantic bathroom with a bath tub made for soaking away the aches and pains of the travel weary, I quickly hung a few things on my silk padded hangers and headed out for dinner at the <strong>House of Savoy.</strong>Angela Gilltraphttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14581311542707150813noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4486680453655185586.post-58523301571440778172010-05-24T11:11:00.000-07:002010-05-24T11:42:45.854-07:00St Louis: Rediscovering America<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhGqx8xGgrCQMJZ22hH-IeyH9xue3DsYVITmcTIxrpjgPQHZm_dKMlNNpITjsHtGO1sT7QN8eOrsqpd9szvi8lGd9kqW3XazW5nGySXfs5if98l41SD5YL7g07yvGdw-wWCNVnqUp8BOAML/s1600/steamboat+1.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 273px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5474908599983206258" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhGqx8xGgrCQMJZ22hH-IeyH9xue3DsYVITmcTIxrpjgPQHZm_dKMlNNpITjsHtGO1sT7QN8eOrsqpd9szvi8lGd9kqW3XazW5nGySXfs5if98l41SD5YL7g07yvGdw-wWCNVnqUp8BOAML/s400/steamboat+1.jpg" /></a><br />A funny thing occurred to me on the way to the Four Seasons Hotel St. Louis—traveling by yourself in a limo isn't very fun. Another interesting revelation hit me while contemplating the first—nobody answers their cell phone anymore. In a recent newspaper article, the number of cell phones has risen dramatically, the number of minutes used talking has declined. This I would experience first hand on route to my destination. Fortunately, this relative silence gave way to some sight seeing and a quick catch up on the history of St. Louis as we traveled to the banks of the Mississippi river.<br /><br />In my travels, overseas destinations often trump those within the U.S. so why St Louis? With volcanic smoke and long delays, security nightmares and interrogating customs it would seem this is the best time to rediscover America and a place such as St. Louis seemed like the perfect place to start.<br /><br />Before European settlement, St. Louis was home to the Mississippians(this word should definitely be a spelling bee tie breaker) a mighty Indian civilization of more than 20 000 who used the fertile river valley to settle. When that culture disappeared during Europe's Middle Ages only their huge, mysterious earthen structures were left, earning St. Louis one of its earliest nicknames, "Mound City." Since then, it was been owned by both the French and the Spanish with Napoleon selling St. Louis to President Thomas Jefferson (whose home in Virginia is worth a visit) in 1803.<br /><br />The "gateway to the west," boats still travel the great Mississippi with cargo bound for places near and far.Angela Gilltraphttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14581311542707150813noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4486680453655185586.post-91326879192940865122010-05-19T10:55:00.000-07:002010-05-19T11:07:50.726-07:00Poland: Dinner in the skyIf you're afraid of heights then this might not be for you. Suspended high above in Manufaktura diners are strapped into their seats for the Legendary Dinner in the sky®. Now in 35 countries, the Polish version in Lodz opened during fashion week, take a look for yourself.<br /><br /><object width="640" height="385"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/amfjVAtEq9E&hl=en_US&fs=1&"><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true"><param name="allowscriptaccess" value="always"><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/amfjVAtEq9E&hl=en_US&fs=1&" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowscriptaccess="always" allowfullscreen="true" width="640" height="385"></embed></object>Angela Gilltraphttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14581311542707150813noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4486680453655185586.post-85672394991064642402010-05-19T10:44:00.000-07:002010-05-19T10:44:00.157-07:00Poland: They won't let me buy bananas<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgBaSVAWaC9nl3GwJx0ILLEsXPqvZGLEIiqbrqNqAUygYcavh3JJ2JbrYBqZCjzew-YH8aA_sdFknxXAc23xdK9cAeLto62M-qKJuWvVwKkxf583uaMhtdvIGmYj0xuOoGrBoo_jo_7ENd5/s1600/images.jpg"><img style="MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; WIDTH: 130px; FLOAT: left; HEIGHT: 101px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5471115976416926098" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgBaSVAWaC9nl3GwJx0ILLEsXPqvZGLEIiqbrqNqAUygYcavh3JJ2JbrYBqZCjzew-YH8aA_sdFknxXAc23xdK9cAeLto62M-qKJuWvVwKkxf583uaMhtdvIGmYj0xuOoGrBoo_jo_7ENd5/s400/images.jpg" /></a>It's somewhat of a ritual for me. Exploring grocery stores may seem mundane for some, for me it's like heading to culinary Disneyland. There are other worlds out there with produce so weird and wonderful that a trip overseas would not be complete without purchasing at least a few goodies. My motto: see what the locals eat, do what the locals do and try with all your might to fit in. This has proven to work for and against me.<br /><br /><div></div><div>Each country undoubtedly has its own grocery shopping protocol. As I headed to "Real" mega-market in Lodz I catiously entered, prepared to battle the inevitable language barrier, flamboyant packaging and foreign food goods, if of course I could find them. There were washing machines and blenders, socks and stockings, makeup and medicine. As I wandered the aisles I feared I might never find the food. </div><br /><div>There were cabbages on sale, kiwi fruit on offer. Endless amounts of cheese and meats, fresh fish and diary. I played it safe and grabbed a couple of bananas and other snacks. I hate to admit it, but I actually found a giant packet of Cheetos which found their way into my basket as well. </div><br /><div>I checked my watch. I had only minutes before my driver would transport me to fashion week. I lined up and waited to battle the final frontier, the checkout. </div><br /><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiEmCNhpzlo7MHw4R5095zqow16L1WdbBYANFdYJXtP24_l8XfWlAEiW6wfNoonzae76O2G4Lb5y10KPlry7qJrDnrHRaLlrrsbrHgBUMKhurFf39BQFojk0y1vgFufWC7Zl7mH99bR_uNg/s1600/real.jpg"><img style="MARGIN: 0px 0px 10px 10px; WIDTH: 124px; FLOAT: right; HEIGHT: 88px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5471117348710909218" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiEmCNhpzlo7MHw4R5095zqow16L1WdbBYANFdYJXtP24_l8XfWlAEiW6wfNoonzae76O2G4Lb5y10KPlry7qJrDnrHRaLlrrsbrHgBUMKhurFf39BQFojk0y1vgFufWC7Zl7mH99bR_uNg/s400/real.jpg" /></a>The cashier, much like grocery cashiers the world over, was not overly pleasant and scanned my goods with an unenthusiastic vibe. Cheese, check. Salami, check. Nuts, check. Mega packet of Cheetos, check. Bananas, stop.</div><div></div><br /><div>She held up the bananas and said something to me in Polish. From her tone, I'd obviously done something wrong. </div><div></div><div>When I explained I can't speak Polish she proceeded to confiscate my bananas. Shaking them at me first to bring hom her point - whatever that was. </div><div></div><div>I acquiesced and let her have my bananas. But why? Was I not allowed to break off two bananas? Did I need to put them in a bag? Was it because she thought I was American? Are Americans not allowed to buy bananas in Poland? All of these questions and more popped into my head as I paid and waited for a plastic bag to pack my groceries. </div><br /><div>And waited...</div><br /><div></div><div>Turns out there are no plastic bags in Poland. So I gathered my cheese, salami, cheetos, water and nuts and stuffed them into my $500 Ro Bag. Still none the wiser why my bananas had been confiscated. I actually really wanted them. </div><div></div><div>Turns out, you have to weigh them yourself before getting to the cashier. A handy note to us all. Write it down in your travel journal for the next time you grocery shop in Poland! </div>Angela Gilltraphttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14581311542707150813noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4486680453655185586.post-92047511028936785412010-05-19T07:46:00.000-07:002010-05-19T07:52:49.965-07:00Poland Fashion Week: Eymeric Francois<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh11S8zrHcc4-AtOlxVPvbTyHmPhtMfdlL2YufIi0btJezEeJrf6O7YY6T703qfOQ6IYw_2kvGapLQHjAxJVax1ClQUWBGo17FCP-6a18H7Bi5m_X0hXkRbqJ7phkwSErQx9AF9dB75OT6_/s1600/EF.jpg"><img style="MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; WIDTH: 213px; FLOAT: left; HEIGHT: 320px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5472992831649486258" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh11S8zrHcc4-AtOlxVPvbTyHmPhtMfdlL2YufIi0btJezEeJrf6O7YY6T703qfOQ6IYw_2kvGapLQHjAxJVax1ClQUWBGo17FCP-6a18H7Bi5m_X0hXkRbqJ7phkwSErQx9AF9dB75OT6_/s400/EF.jpg" /></a> French designer Eymeric Francois closed day two of Poland Fashion Week as one of several international guests invited to show this season. His "Fashion Until Death" collection embraced gothic chic (particulalry fitting in our vampire obsessed world).<br /><br />Black lipstck with severe up dos accompanied figure hugging evening wear in deep purple, black and white, an ode to 50s style showing throughout.<br /><br />As with previous collections, the corset was a keystone in Francois' creations. Broken up into four sections, Francois used lace, velvet and fetish leather to create conversation-starting numbers.<br /><br />Love them or hate them you can't deny Francois' craftsmenship, fashioning an entire dress out of white zippers, another out of belts.<br /><br />Interesting, evocative and destined for the pages of fashion editorials around the world, Francois delivers fantasy meets extravagance.<br /><br />Text: Angela Gilltrap<br /><br /><em>Courtesy of <a href="http://www.unitededitorsatlarge.blogspot.com/">http://www.unitededitorsatlarge.blogspot.com/</a></em><br /><br /><br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEif0evBAJR8gOhS_mhfk1dNP7EnYqf0C2eCvJxxKVQ_hwx7uUmy-3B7t5z93Wcwy1NEhnmBBppoLoNZcwr2xG3bZjiTaERcwRuQN53DIJgOVns0s8HAaacrPm1L69L3CeOntmtOXyaxmBR7/s1600/EF3.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 214px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 320px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5472993568493072914" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEif0evBAJR8gOhS_mhfk1dNP7EnYqf0C2eCvJxxKVQ_hwx7uUmy-3B7t5z93Wcwy1NEhnmBBppoLoNZcwr2xG3bZjiTaERcwRuQN53DIJgOVns0s8HAaacrPm1L69L3CeOntmtOXyaxmBR7/s400/EF3.jpg" /></a><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhPHtZDgiQGd3NUB6XCocoPVQPAXbRVR56qgr3tzF7heMoKNRA8S0cMW83378k0i0s1gj3pJ7GztJx9GK_f__4hhQlMH4kHt4ziUCzAXVO4qz4Brd-qicQg4xNwuoDBaNl39sf8YntJOg8h/s1600/EF2.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 214px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 320px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5472993481706906450" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhPHtZDgiQGd3NUB6XCocoPVQPAXbRVR56qgr3tzF7heMoKNRA8S0cMW83378k0i0s1gj3pJ7GztJx9GK_f__4hhQlMH4kHt4ziUCzAXVO4qz4Brd-qicQg4xNwuoDBaNl39sf8YntJOg8h/s400/EF2.jpg" /></a>Angela Gilltraphttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14581311542707150813noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4486680453655185586.post-57689095300349755202010-05-18T16:46:00.000-07:002010-05-18T13:46:34.664-07:00Poland: The ghost factories of Lodz<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiIUiX3vnxhYRmKsWqDouOKhUVHJOS6T6zquqXrxhIZV9DfXTzwzHQtZOCaVVAg6nNiCjTfAxWd-G1F7ubJz3k1n4nsD6aOlftCy52Z9O_3Outh_fKnV_Of2bSHiU02j_nuIj4dqMKTp_OC/s1600/100_3789.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; width: 400px; display: block; height: 300px;" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5472239530728346914" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiIUiX3vnxhYRmKsWqDouOKhUVHJOS6T6zquqXrxhIZV9DfXTzwzHQtZOCaVVAg6nNiCjTfAxWd-G1F7ubJz3k1n4nsD6aOlftCy52Z9O_3Outh_fKnV_Of2bSHiU02j_nuIj4dqMKTp_OC/s400/100_3789.JPG" border="0" /></a>In the late 19th century, Lodz was the hub of the textile industry. A booming town of industrial growth, factories housing thousands of workers made up the towering landscape of this sprawling town. The collapse of the textile industry however, quickly turned it into a ghost town with workers swarming to Warsaw, two hours away to find work. What is left is the most amazing array of abandoned factories, some pegged for renovation, others for demolition.<br /><br />Before this one becomes a mall myself and a lucky few, got a sneak preview into the eery history of Lodz's past.<br /><br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEixlKn-sDEvqXQrz2pCgVExgaooBS0xLsxreiDL1_3Imhy2EOkPhsyhEOIy9rKfgtepbWJol379z8Mf_JgeeeguRIM5x9TZT9RQHWTBiIZZoRLZcz8zuXyUGpsTfurK3jRMSsFkvmjyhxJi/s1600/100_3784.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; width: 400px; display: block; height: 300px;" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5472240255039957026" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEixlKn-sDEvqXQrz2pCgVExgaooBS0xLsxreiDL1_3Imhy2EOkPhsyhEOIy9rKfgtepbWJol379z8Mf_JgeeeguRIM5x9TZT9RQHWTBiIZZoRLZcz8zuXyUGpsTfurK3jRMSsFkvmjyhxJi/s400/100_3784.JPG" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhReBCvu-6YUrnb_lmcHHpphtBFYxiHRhHL11NOzJvbtK_l6DcKth069mslDVbhh-b4s8pq79RyjH8exorybG6ysXghNs1Qddwyd8WU4mZF509hw0EuIPSU0rokrjykjEYW7zb3LsPaWnYj/s1600/100_3792.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; width: 400px; display: block; height: 300px;" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5472240900223096962" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhReBCvu-6YUrnb_lmcHHpphtBFYxiHRhHL11NOzJvbtK_l6DcKth069mslDVbhh-b4s8pq79RyjH8exorybG6ysXghNs1Qddwyd8WU4mZF509hw0EuIPSU0rokrjykjEYW7zb3LsPaWnYj/s400/100_3792.JPG" border="0" /></a>Angela Gilltraphttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14581311542707150813noreply@blogger.com0