Travel

Living Statues Spring to Life at St. Mark’s Square in Las Vegas, Nevada

Absorb the ambience of Old Italy at The Venetian Streetmosphere throughout a journey of the Grand Canal Shoppes. Graceful dancers, limber court jesters, vibrant carnivalesque personalities, and talented musicians effortlessly entertain the masses in St. Mark’s Square. Go ahead, choose a bench for people-watching while satisfying your sweet tooth with a refreshing gelato. After all, one must truly indulge to appreciate the savior-faire. Grazie, grazie molto!

Time Travel on a Gondola Ride

On water as smooth as glass, a skilled gondolier guides the narrow, flat-bottomed boat through the canals of Venice. Close your eyes for a moment and be taken away beneath stone arched bridges, past bustling cafés and iron street lamps where couples embrace in romantic murmurs. This is Italy, or at least it appears so, presented for your enjoyment on the gondola rides at The Venetian in Las Vegas. 

I’ve Got Swag!

I’ve got Swag! This is the reason I don’t gamble….or do I? Betting on a sure thing awarded me the classy sophistication of “The Swagger by Coach!” This is how to make a statement in Vegas! Love the color blocking in addition to Shady, the emoji bag charm; both personalized for a twist of attitude. 

Pinch Me. I Think I’m Dreaming!

Escape from reality into a world of passion in Le Rêve, The Dream. In it Hope is eternal ignited by the lure of Romance, the seduction of Lust, the fire of Jealousy, and the depth of Love. Be mesmerized, be entertained, be tempted, but most of all…be prepared to enter a world of mystery worth experiencing. Le Rêve. The Dream at the Wynn in Las Vegas, Nevada. 

Dining Outside the Home: Gordon Ramsay Pub and Grill at Caesars Palace in Las Vegas, Nevada 

Dining Outside the Home: Gordon Ramsay Pub and Grill at Caesars Palace in Las Vegas, Nevada! From the moment we stepped away from the jangle of slot machines, it was clear we were about to experience an authentic English pub. The renowned chef of “Hell’s Kitchen”, Gordon Ramsay has set the stage for the best sampling of British fare this side of the Atlantic Ocean. Waitresses scurrying by with heaping platters of Yorkshire Ale Batter Fish and Chips still take time to stop and chat with curious customers needing direction. The menu offers a plethora of pub temptations from Olive and Sea Salt Roasted Nuts to Grilled Lamb Burger to Sticky Toffee Pudding. Think about sharing a plate in order to experience “The Full Monty”.

Dining Outside the Home: Godiva Belgian Chocolates of The Grand Canal Shoppes in Las Vegas, Nevada 

Godiva Chocolate cravings are so satisfying. When the urge to nibble on creamy gourmet chocolate strikes, think chocolate-covered strawberries! Godiva chocolatiers are artists-in-residence who beautifully create these legendary masterpieces before your very eyes. Try not to drool. The struggle is real whether to admire its allure or succumb to that first bite of semi-sweet cocoa. Go ahead….oblige! The juicy ripe strawberries are the ultimate complement for white, dark, or milk chocolate indulgences. And never, ever refuse the decadent samples offered by the gracious hostess. Permission granted. 

Get Your Daily Double

The Mint Julep has got to be the greatest afternoon drink south of the Mason-Dixon Line, next to its nonalcoholic partner, Sweet Tea. Anyone who has ever heard of Churchill Downs and the Kentucky Derby appreciates this smooth concoction of bourbon whiskey, sugar, mint, water, and ice. Derby Day is traditionally celebrated the first Saturday in May, as the Earth announces the arrival of mint. And if you’ve ever planted this herb, you already know it must be contained or it will overpower everything within its reach. Hence the reason for consuming this signature drink in a frosty chilled highball glass. Crowd control. Now that’s what I call Southern hospitality! 
MINT JULEP 
Ingredients:

4 mint leaves

1 teaspoon sugar

2 teaspoons water

Cracked Ice

2 ounces Bourbon whiskey

Splash of sparkling water

Mint sprigs
Instructions:

In a chilled highball glass, gently muddle mint leaves. Add sugar and water. Stir to combine. Fill the glass with cracked ice. Add Bourbon whiskey and stir well; it keeps the glass frosted. Top off with sparkling water. Garnish with a mint sprig. 

Dining Outside the Home: El Rodeo Mexican Restaurant in Richmond, Indiana 

Dining Outside the Home: El Rodeo Mexican Restaurant in Richmond, Indiana! One foot in the door and it is apparent a celebration of Mexican heritage, culture, and pride exists on Cinco de Mayo. Between the lively mariachi music and the clink of margarita glasses as big as fishbowls, the atmosphere is hypnotic. Spicy aromas envelope the crowd in south-of-the-border savory dishes. Hardworking employees pass by with sizzling hot plates carefully stacked all the way up their arms without missing a beat. Lively conversation bubbles in our midst as we make our way to a treasured vantage point of activity, celebration, feasting, and of course the classic jumbo margarita. Olé! 

Dining Outside the Home: The Merchant House in Greenville, Ohio

Dining Outside the Home: The Merchant House in Greenville, Ohio! Centuries ago in the town where the famed sharp-shooter Annie Oakley lived, an 1880s merchant building was the hub of all activity providing supplies and groceries for its patrons. Today that historical building still stands and has been transformed into the town’s newest eatery, The Merchant House. Much of the building’s character has been a labor of love. Decorative tin tiles adorn the ceiling, majestic architectural columns divide seating areas, and antique brick walls boldly offset black and white murals. The menu features smoked barbecue, deep dish pizzas, specialty salads, two-handed sandwiches, gourmet desserts, and local craft beers. Farm-to-table ingredients are a plus. For casual family dining and live entertainment, The Merchant House is spot on.