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Member Profiles || Regional Membership Coordinators
Maralyn D. Hill, President
Membership type: Regular
Company: NoraLyn Ltd

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Websites:
theepicureanexplorer.com

whereandwhatintheworld.com
www.NoraLyn.com
www.BooksByHills.com

http://www.cityroom.com/stories/travel/contributing-writers-editors-photographers/
bigblendmagazine.com/Books_by_Hills/Tandem-Travelers.htm
bigblendmagazine.com/Books_by_Hills/Maralyn.htm

Maralyn Dennis Hill, The Epicurean Explorer, is President of the International Food Wine & Travel Writers Association (IFWTWA). She was elected to the Board of Directors in 2007. In 2009, Maralyn was elected President. She continues to Co-Chair the Conference and Media Trip Committee with Vice President Michelle Winner. ***** Credits: Editor-at-Large, City RoomStories; Editor and Columnist, Where & What in the World; Columnist, Big Blend Magazine; Columnist, Vacation Station Magazine & Radio; Contributor: Oenologist; Contributor: The Epoch Times; Contributor: Spa Tours Worldwide; Contributor: International Business Times; Contributor: JustLuxe; Contributor,  Global Writes, Spa Review Magazine; and author of international and domestic incentive programs and support material. ***** Maralyn prides herself on staying up with current trends and discovering more all the time. With Brenda, they covered Bocuse d'Or with French Master Chef Herv„ Laurent in January 2009. Subsequently, she covered Taste of the Caribbean in June, 2009. In March, 2010, she was on a panel of judges at Saborea in Puerto Rico. She and Brenda returned to Sirha and Bocuse d'Or in 2011.***** Business Experience: Maralyn is CEO of NoraLyn Ltd. She founded and built a Connecticut based promotional advertising firm, Brink Associates, Ltd. She developed and wrote travel incentive, sales training, and motivational programs for both management and employees, as well as programs emphasizing safety and quality. She sold the promotional advertising part of the firm in 1990 and renamed the consulting, incentive, and meeting planning components, NoraLyn Ltd.***** Maralyn received her Masters Degree in Organizational Development from the University of Massachusetts in 1990. She has presented papers at organizational conferences, and at writers conferencesboth international and domestic.***** In 2001, Maralyn added food and travel writing to her specialties. She stopped meeting planning, but continues to write to the meeting and incentive markets. She has coauthored three books with Brenda C. Hill (no relation), Our Love Affairs with Food & Travel, Cooking Secrets, The Why and How, (also co-authored with French Master Chef Herv„ Laurent), and Success, Your Path to a Successful Book, (2009 INDIE Finalist).***** From 2002 to 2006 in Charlotte, NC, she was producer and host of a Time Warner Cable television and web series, Dishing with Carolina Chefs. ***** Associations: She is also a member of the Society of Professional Journalists, Organizational Network, The Organizational Development Institute, Travel Writers Association, The Association of Psychological Type International, and other professional associations.***** Personal: Maralyn resides in Gilbert, Arizona with her husband Norman, they travel for work and they travel together for pleasure. Since they both write business and travel/lifestyle articles, they complement each other. She also still writes with Brenda.***** If you asked her to describe herself, she would say, I was born to travel and tell the tale. Im energized by different cultures in every aspect of their lives, from food, wine, and destination to how they conduct business. Travel is a continual geography lesson.

Published Books

Success, Your Path to a Successful Book
Buy it at Amazon
Finalist in the Writing and Publishing category of the 2009 Next Generation Indie Book Awards. Success Reader's and Reviewer's Comments: "Discover the many aspects of creative writing, research, marketing, publicity and publishing. You will be compelled to read and practice Maralyn and Brenda's tips and resources on successful book writing. These delightful and successful authors collaborated to bring both new and seasoned writers a comprehensive workbook." Dan Poynter, "The Self-Publishing Manual." "These veteran authors bring new and seasoned writers practical tips for becoming more successful. Do yourself a favor -- read and practice their tips and resources and you can triumph in this competitive business. The Hill Team covers many aspects of creative writing, research, marketing, publicity and publishing in a delightfully positive manner." Brian Jud, author of How to Make Real Money Selling Books. You have a solid, much needed book.Cork Millner, Author, Write from the Start. The two authors, successful writers in their own right, share their own experiences and what they've learned in a way that makes you feel like you're being given a private tutoring with a true professional who is more like a personal friend. Susan Haley, Author, Rainy Day People, FIBERS IN THE WEB.

Our Love Affairs with Food & Travel
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From Cordon Bleu French cooking lessons, to hot green lips, to beer ice cream, delight in this unusual, informative book. Meet nearly 100 chefs worldwide, 200+ recipes and break bread around the world. "It is a lovely book"-Julia Child, Author and Chef, Santa Barbara, CA "Anyone who makes a habit of tuning into the Food Networkeither out of boredom, curiosity or good armchair cooking funwill revel in this cuisine and restaurant tour through six continents. It's an informative and inside look at world chefs (and their restaurants) that makes for an intriguing read for the non-cooking inclined, but a gold mine for those wanting solid step-by-step recipes and superb instruction (and secrets!) from top talent. The index catalogs each recipe and its origin for a cook's easy reference. But the pleasure reader will want to dive right into the stories of international (and American) chefs and restaurants. As one who always spends more time reading about cooking than practicing it, I found this a great source of cooking & travel fantasy."Jane Friedman, Managing Editor, Writers Digest. "Our Love Affairs with Food & Travel has a stance as classy as a Rolls-Royce grill" Cork Millner, Author & Wine Connoisseur, Santa Barbara, CA

Cooking Secrets The Why and How...
Buy it at Amazon
Herve Laurent's latest book, collaborated with Maralyn Hill and Brenda Hill, begins where many cooking schools leave off. It explains why some recipes go wrong, with tips for success.

Published Articles
Global-Writes.com

Book Review: In the Land of Misfits, Pirates and Cooks Book Review: In the Land of Misfits, Pirates and Cooks by Chef Michael Bennett, The Food Brat
Chef Bennett's book starts out with a long title: In the Land of Misfits, Pirates and Cooks, Orchestrating Florida's Caribbean Pantry into a Modern Metropolitan Cuisine. The rest is intriguing, well organized, and easy to follow with delicious recipes.
Book Review: Traveling with Pain Book Review: Traveling with Pain by Liz Hamill
In addition to covering tips on how and why to travel, this book covers: packing and preparing; getting there; sleeping and eating; sightseeing; outdoor adventures; shopping; night life; resting; recovery time after the trip.
Appenzellerland—Preserving Tradition While Embracing Future Appenzellerland—Preserving Tradition While Embracing Future
Having visited and enjoyed Switzerland in the past, I was pleasantly surprised by the Appenzell region. Located in the northeastern area, its dimensions are only 258.5 square miles (416 square kilometers). This area has the lowest population in Switzerland, with 26 villages that average 23 inns per village.
A Puerto Rican Culinary Experience at Saborea A Puerto Rican Culinary Experience at Saborea
Puerto Rico has so much more to offer than I could begin to imagine. I'd certainly encourage those who enjoy culinary travel to put it on their calendar for next year, when Saborea will take place April 1-3, 2011
BOOK REVIEW: Thirty Percent Chance of Enlightenment BOOK REVIEW: Thirty Percent Chance of Enlightenment by Tim Brookes
Thirty Percent Chance of Enlightenment by Tim Brookes certainly enlightens. Brookes is able to articulate with humor and a sense of life and culture acceptance that transport the reader to experience India alongside him.
BOOK REVIEW: Absente, Images and Tastes of the Green Fairy BOOK REVIEW: Absente, Images and Tastes of the Green Fairy by David Carrier and Michel Roux
I'm enamored with a book on Absente. During the past two years, quite a few authors have written about the magic of this famous liqueur. However, Carrier's compilation brings everything to life in spectacular fashion. It combines history with over 130 photos of well known works of art with numerous artists' biographies…
Andara Resort and Yachts of Phuket – The Ultimate Incentive Andara Resort and Yachts of Phuket – The Ultimate Incentive
Visiting Southeast Asia has been a frequent experience for me. I did graduate study there in 1989. Thailand has been a personal favorite in this area, and since my first visit to Bangkok, I've gone North to Chang Mai and as far South as the island of Koh Samui.
Cruise Ship Meetings Bring Surprising Return on Investment Cruise Ship Meetings Bring Surprising Return on Investment
For the past 20 years, cruise ships in general have been ideal for incentive programs; and because I've participated in and arranged numerous incentive and sales conventions, I can attest to that first hand. I can also say that in past years cruise ships were not completely ideal for general meetings. Now, I sing a different tune.
The Sanctuary At Kiawah Island Golf Resort—Ideal for an Incentive Program The Sanctuary At Kiawah Island Golf Resort—Ideal for an Incentive Program
Often it can be a challenge to discover a property or destination that is ideal for an incentive program or an upper-level meeting. The Sanctuary at Kiawah Island Golf Resort satisfies both objectives. Kiawah Island has long stood on its own, but The Sanctuary represents an ideal complement.
14 Tips for an Effective Meeting 14 Tips for an Effective Meeting
Everyone wants a successful meeting, whether it is held in the best surroundings or the worst. Details matter and there are several that can contribute to members of your audience walking out, shaking their heads, falling asleep, or not retaining what was covered.
Speed, Savvy, Safety and 'Citement: Bob Bondurant's School of High Performance Driving Speed, Savvy, Safety and 'Citement: Bob Bondurant's School of High Performance Driving
Frequently referred to as the “Fastest 60 Acres in America,” the Bob Bondurant School of High Performance Driving is committed to professional instruction for all levels, from novice to advanced to professional, and from individuals to large groups. It ranks as a multi-million dollar operation.
Puebla, Mexico, the True Home of Molé and Mesónes Sacrist�a Cooking School Puebla, Mexico, the True Home of Molé and Mesónes Sacrist�a Cooking School
Many Mexicans refer to the colonial mountain city of Puebla, in the State of Puebla in Central Mexico, as the gastronomy capital of Mexico.
A Traveling Life of Contrasts A Traveling Life of Contrasts
In describing our lifetime travel experiences, two dictionary definitions are useful.
Luxury: Something that is not considered essential but gives great pleasure, esp. something expensive, rare, or hard to obtain; the enjoyment of sumptuous living.
Reasonable: Not excessive or extreme; moderate; reasonable prices.
The Colony Palms Hotel and Its Purple Palm Restaurant 
Restore Early Glamour to Palm Springs The Colony Palms Hotel and Its Purple Palm Restaurant Restore Early Glamour to Palm Springs
…newly restored to spotlight its special brand of Spanish Colonial charm that, despite its being on flat ground, is reminiscent of an Acapulco hotel…
Charlotte, NC -- An Explosion of Happenings Charlotte, NC -- An Explosion of Happenings
With each visit to North Carolina's greater Charlotte area, we discover new activities such as museums, restaurants, hotels and parks.
Miracle Springs Resort & Spa in Desert Hot Springs Miracle Springs Resort & Spa in Desert Hot Springs
…eight scenic pools that range in temperature from a pleasantly warm Olympic-sized swimming pool, to "champagne" bubbling pools, to the hot-tub variety.
Rancho Cortez. . . More than a guest ranch! Rancho Cortez. . . More than a guest ranch!
When taking business trips, we always like to take a few extra days. We decided to venture the Hill Country of Texas, Bandera, "The Cowboy Capital of the World."…
Wiesbaden, a Fairytale Comes to Life Wiesbaden, a Fairytale Comes to Life
The Romans discovered Wiesbaden and its 27 hot springs, so seeing part of the Roman Wall was a surprise. Before dinner at the famous Kifer's, we visited palace-like Kurhaus…


Corey Shoemaker and Mii amo Spa at Enchantment Excel with Excellence
Recently, Norm and I made a trip to Enchantment Resort and Spa in Sedona to present Chef Corey Shoemaker of Mii amo CafŽ with the International Food Wine & Travel Writers Association Culinary Excellence Award. We had not visited Enchantment before and we were in for a treat. At various spas Ive frequented, some have great chefs, while others are not in the same category. Corey is certainly at the top of the list. After receiving a degree in Wildlife Ecology from the University of Wisconsin in Madison, he discovered his love of cooking and performed due diligence in a local technical school and fine restaurants to hone his skills. Corey suggests that aspiring chefs find a mentor or more than one to work under and absorb every ounce possible from each of them.

The Ritz-Carlton, Wolfsburg, Germany
As cities in Germany go, Wolfsburg is relatively young, established in 1938. Just an hour from Berlin and 2.5 hours from Frankfurt via rail, it is easy to reach. Whats better, you can arrange to have the Ritz limo pick you up at the train station. The first Ritz-Carlton to deviate from their standard design was in Singapore. Well, the Wolfsburg Ritz is a true rival. Designed by the renowned French designer, AndrŽe Putman, its open circle design is intended to welcome guests. What appealed to me was being surrounded by a modern tribute to technology, which is an integral part of Volkswagens theme park, Autostadt, a convenient walk across the bridge.

Sarah Cyr, Sommelier at The Wine Cellar & Bistro in Columbia, Missouri
When Norm and I visited Columbia, Missouri, we discovered The Wine Cellar & Bistro. What a find! In addition to a wonderful chef, Craig Syr, it is co-owned by an equally talented Sommelier, Sarah Cyr. This small, intimate establishment has grown to be a successful highly recommended destination for memorable experiences. Interviewing and sharing Sarahs story revealed a road to success and happiness. Maralyn: Sarah, how did you decide to become a Sommelier? Sarah: I started working in restaurants while finishing law school, so I could see my fiancŽ at the time. We were both so busy and loved working together in whatever restaurant Craig was currently employed. I soon became a server manager at a fine dining restaurant, and helped them receive a Wine Spectator award for their wine list (the same award we, The Wine Cellar & Bistro, has received every year since we opened in 2003).

Interview with Chef Corti Stefano of Acqua Dolce CafŽ Restaurant in Lake Como
Lake Como is one of those destinations youve read about in books, seen in movies, and possibly visited. The charm, elegance, and romance that surround this luxury destination continuously attract the avid explorer of Italian cuisine and treasures. Acqua Dolce CafŽ Restaurant A new restaurant is now on the Lake Como scene, Acqua Dolce. In researching its concept and name, I discovered, In Italian, the two words mean fresh water, referring to the water of the lake, but also sweet, gentle, tender water referring to the idyllic atmosphere of that part of the lake George Clooney must agree on the location, as his villa is just 3 km away. Acqua Dolce has a glass veranda that overlooks the lake and its private dock. Its menu was developed by starred Michelin chef, Mauro Eli, and boasts a sixty label wine list.

Why Holland America for an Incentive Program?
Why Holland America for an Incentive Program? CityRoom | Jul. 12, 2011, 5:32 PM | 126 | 1 A A A inShare CityRoom Email | URL CityRoom is a publication that has been exploring cultures and ideas through stories, articles, events and adventures since 1998. Recent Posts A Memorable Wine Adventure: Inside A Prestigious Napa Valley Wine... Special Anniversary at The Allison Inn and Spa Delights Her... Inn-to-Inn Hiking in Switzerland RSS Feed CityRoom Family Friendly Fun in Vegas? Sure!   Daily Literary Quote   Wine Tasting Etiquette Great Explorers: Vasco de Gama   Daily Literary Quote   During the past two decades, my experience has included organizing incentive programs and conferences on cruise ships. They have proven to be easy to justify and budget, and provide a high-perceived value. A drawback with many large ships is that high achievers are limited to receiving verandah cabins. This has caused many incentive programs to turn to higher end smaller ships that could provide the exceptional service, but not the space required for a large group. Holland America Lines has solved that dilemma with penthouse and deluxe verandah suites. The majority of the cabins are verandahs. However, on the ms Westerdam, Oosterdam, Noordam, Eurodam and Nieuw Amsterdam, as well as various classes of ships, this category is available with approximately more than 60 deluxe verandah and penthouse suites. Guests enjoy the use of the Neptune Lounge, which provides a relaxed atmosphere with up-to-date newspapers, magazines, and television, in addition to coffee or tea with fresh cold snacks all day.

French Master Chef HervŽ Laurent Talks About His Life Experiences
During 1996, I was fortunate to meet French Master Chef HervŽ Laurent, while attending a class at Le Cordon Bleu in London. I was so impressed with his teaching skills, methods, and personality, that we featured him in our first book. Since then, he has moved from London to the Paul Bocuse Institute and now owns a successful culinary school in Latin America. Maralyn Hill: How early did you start cooking and know you wanted to keep at it? Chef HervŽ Laurent: I started cooking when I was 8 years old. My mother had to work 12 hours a day, coming back home at 7:30 p.m., very tired, and I made everything for her and my little brother. Every day, I visited my godmother, who lived next to the house, and watched her cook wonderful traditional French cuisine like jams, sausages, stuffed chicken, and pastries. For Christmas, my aunt visited us, preparing marvelous desserts. I wanted to be a pastry chef!

Deborah Scarborough of The Black Cat
While exploring the central coast of California and Cambria, we discovered Deborah Scarborough, chef/owner of The Black Cat Bistro. In addition to knowing the evening would be wonderful as soon as we entered, we discovered Deborah is one of the most passionate chefs weve encountered. Deborah Scarborough | chef/owner of The Black Cat Bistro Like many chefs, she started cooking with her grandmother, mother, and father. However, she has taken her talent to an exceptional level beyond their fine examples. While in her twenties, in the entertainment industry in Los Angeles, Deborah felt her dream of being a chef was a pipedream. After an amazing meal out, I would try to recreate it. All my gifts were cooking related.

BFF Getaways: Lets Go Spa, Girls!
I wrote this with Michelle M. Winner. As soon as we hear the first Marco Polo ringing out from the pool area, we are in a get-us-out-of-here mode. One of us dials for travel reservations for some much needed respite before the onslaught of summer. Before we have to deal with home lunches, screaming, messes, and chauffeuring, we need some me time with our girlfriends. Here are some unusual value options on the West Coast that offer beautiful locales and signature treatments that wont break the summer vacation bank either.

Chef/Owner Aaron Chamberlins Sticky Toffee Pudding from the St. Francis in Phoenix
Chef/Owner Aaron Chamberlin has a menu that includes many creative and outstanding dishes. However, his Sticky Toffee Pudding tends to be a favorite among regular patrons. When we were there, at least one-third of the guests were ordering it. Chef Chamberlin was happy to share his recipe with us.

Rancho La Puerta  A Glimpse of a Wellness Oasis in Sunny Mexico
The best testimonial for Rancho La Puerta is the return rate at approximately 65%. We met those who had been coming 40 times. Over ten return guest visits is common. A stay at the Ranch is an investment in yourself and your future health and well being that youll be delighted you made. Rancho La Puerta is spread out over a natural sanctuary of 3,000 acres. One Ranch pamphlet reads that Ranch La Puerta is Where healthy people get healthier. It is not for someone with physical difficulties as the beautifully casitas are spread throughout the property. You may walk ß mile to the dining room or 3/4 mile to a classroom, pool or gym.

Rancho La Puerta & Spa Tips
Recently, the Hill Team returned from one of our favorite spas worldwide, the renowned Rancho La Puerta in Tecate, Mexico., just a short, breathtaking ride south from San Diego. While at the ranch, (as the regulars call it,) to present one of our writing workshops, our free time was aimed at refreshing and renewing. Deep breathing with long walks and short hikes was part of every day. Time was also made for swimming, then relaxing in the private roof tub hot tub au natural; indulging in treatments, steam and sauna and a make-up session with excellent products and some valuable tips.

Chef Supreedas Goong Sarong from Andara Resort and Yachts of Phuket
The Andara Resort and Yachts of Phuket, Thailand are an upscale luxury experience in every sense of the word. Chef Supreeda of SILK leads the culinary team. They are so creative and Chef Supreeda is a talented and skilled chef with a large following. She shared her recipe for Goong Sarong.

Chef Mathew Macartney of Chateau Yearing Shares an Intriguing Salad Plate
While exploring the Australian Yarra Valley wine region, I was able to experience the five star, heritage-listed Victorian mansion. Chateau Yearing, sitting on 250 acres, is a member of Relais & Chateaux. In the parlor, while enjoying scones and tea, I discovered Head Chef Mathew Macartney. Mathew oversees the Sweetwater CafŽ and Elenores, a One Chefs Hat in The Age Good Food Guide. Elenores has won numerous awards since Mathew arrived. He has also been a celebrity chef on Silverseas cruise line the past two years. Chef Macartneys talent speaks for itself in the recipe he chose to share.

Premchit Aromatic Prawns with Mango and Avocado Salad
This recipe is from Premchit in Phuket, Thailand a destination spa devoted to wellness through diet, detoxification and other focused therapies. Premchit Prateap Na Thalang says: Connections, between people, animals, plants, the earth, the sun; are life, past, present, future.

Two Exquisite Spas Providenciales Island in Turks & Caicos (TCI)
Exhale Mind and Body Spa as well as Teona Spa were both exceptional in their treatments and service. Discover these two gems on Provo in The Turks & Caicos.

Life is a (Clean Beach) Gulf Shores & Orange Beach, Alabama
Our visit took place not too long after the much publicized BP oil spill into the Gulf of Mexico. To varying extents, all adjoining states, Texas, Louisiana, Mississippi, Alabama, and Florida were adversely affected. We were well aware of all the media horror stories of oily beaches, oil-soaked wildlife, and poisoned food. While we started our press trip with open minds, we really didnt know what to expect. It seems that Louisiana was much more impacted than other Gulf States. But we saw detailed evidence of how citizens in the 32 miles of Gulf Shores/Orange Beach and local areas in Alabama have reacted to the spill and impressively recovered from it.

Quebec City and Surrounding Countryside Proud Traditions Blended with A Fascinating Festive Culture
Quebec City is often described as the most European city in North America, as one where visitors can experience Europe without journeying across the pond. Our initial guide, Michelle Demers, provided a history lesson. The Quebec City area, including all boroughs, contains about 750,000 population, 97% of French descent. It is bilingual and school children learn both languages, although French predominates. The city is capital of the Quebec province, which has around 7.5 million population. The Quebec City area was first explored by Cartier in the 1500s. But Champlain, in the early 17th century, observed the St. Lawrence River narrow here and envisioned possibilities of both a fur trade with Indians and French settlements. He founded Quebec City is 1608, which compares to Jamestown, Virginias founding in 1607 and New Orleans founding by Frenchmen considerably later in 1718.

Switzerland On Track And Some Areas Off the Beaten Track
Switzerland was a European Union before there even was an EU. It combines ethnicities of German, French, and Italian, who have lived in peace and prosperity for, arguably, several hundreds of years. Similarly, Protestants and Catholics have worked together for at least as long a period of time. Our International Food Wine & Travel Writers Association (IFWTWA) trip to this magical country lasted a week in mid September, 2010. We studied the federal government makeup of 23 cantons with 7.7 million population. Because of a half canton split, some descriptions say 26 cantons. Of this total, 19 cantons are primarily German, 4 are French, and some of the remaining local governments are Italian and bilingual. In addition, one small canton features the Rumantsch language, an offshoot of Latin. We learned that Swiss German (the predominant language of 64% of the population) is quite different from most regular German dialects. However, Swiss French is just about the same as official French.

The Spa at Stoweflake
Recently, I was fortunate to experience the Spa at Stoweflake in Stowe, Vermont. Stoweflake Mountain Resort & Spa, a Baraw family run establishment, has been in Stowe for over 45 years. They continue to keep raising the bar, and the property has been awarded 4 diamonds and 4 stars. The staff is responsive and helpful, which could account for their being honored in the Condá Nast Traveler Gold List.toweflake Spa is one of New Englands premier spas. Elle and Forbes named it among Americas top ten spas. Condá Nast gave it a perfect score, and was included in Fodors Choice Top 10 Destination Spas in the U.S. The spa has more awards, but lets talk about the service. The first thing I ask is always: What do you offer that is unique to your spa or signature treatment? I received two answers from Spa Director Samantha Johnson, Vermont Maple Sugar Body Polish and Ayurvedic Wellness & Sound Therapy and Body Turning.

Saborea Puerto Rico A Culinary Experience
Over several decades, Ive visited Puerto Rico, explored and made many interesting discoveries. None of my prior trips prepared me for its annual Saborea Puerto RicoA Culinary Experience. Puerto Rico has so much more to offer than I could begin to imagine. Id certainly encourage those who enjoy culinary travel to put it on their calendar for next year. It will take place April 1-3, 2011 at the same place, Punta del Escambro, San Juan. Saborea Puerto Rico is the largest culinary event in the Caribbean. A portion of its earnings goes towards education for tourism industry employees. This event is open to the public and draws more than 7,000. As crowded as that sounds, it does not get in the way of tasting and sampling as much as you want, as well as talking to chefs and suppliers.

W Retreat & Spa
The W on Vieques had only been open a week when I had the pleasure of visiting. Immediately after checking into a beautiful contemporary room, Michelle Winner and I enjoyed lunch at Mix on the Beach. Then we broke away from the group, as it was time to tour Spa Chakra and get a massage. We toured the private rooms, many overlooking the ocean. When we saw the couples room, the Spa Director said: We also want couples to experience services together. I like to say that by opening the [French] doors [to the sea], you dont need music.

Zen to Medi Spas in Rockland, Maine
Rockland, Maine has long been known for lobsters, but not necessarily as a destination spa haven. But with the Historic Inns of Rockland, there are packages that provide an Estrogen Escape or just a spa getaway. The spas are Rheal Day Spa (Zen) and Skin Klinic & Day Spa (MediSpa). I tried them both and was delighted with their services. October 22-24, 2010 or April 29-May 1, 2011 are the dates for the Estrogen Escape: The New Generation of Girlfriends Getaways. These weekends will be packed full of spa treatments, food, wine, and laughter. The package includes an abundance of services: A two-night stay at one of four luxury inns; spa servicesmanicure, pedicure, facial, massage; technology sessionTwitter, Facebook, and up-to-the-minute new aspects of social media; financial counseling session for women; bra-fitting session; spa lunch with lecture on fighting fat and disease in women; wine and cheese Friday reception; $50 voucher for Saturday dinner; Shazamie and Pajamie party at your inn. Packages will range from $735 to $975 plus tax per person for a single-room and $665 to $720 plus tax per person for double occupancy. These packages include all meals, lodging gratuities, spa treatments and programs.

Portland, Maine
Today, tourism has become the biggest industry in the state. Portland's downtown area has enjoyed a renaissance, as old buildings have been gutted, refurbished, and repainted. Streets are bustling with visitors.

Copper Canyon Mexico, Our Journey Through an Awesome Natural Excavation
Train journeys are high on our priority list. Visiting the Copper Canyon in Mexico was a top spot on our someday destination list. Last fall, an opportunity arose with the International Food Wine and Travel Writers Association (IFWTWA). Finally, we would experience this phenomenon first hand.

Spa Avania at the Hyatt Regency Scottsdale Resort & Spa at Gainey Ranch
Avania, in Greek means tranquil. The goal at the Spa Avania is for guests to be elevated to a sixth sense of well-being and tranquility.

The Lotus Spa on Princess Saphire
Cruise ships are ideal venues for taking advantage of spa services. It was our goal this week to enjoy a relaxing cruise aboard the Sapphire Princess and experience their spa program and lighter meals. In other words, we intended to eat healthy and not gain weightand we succeeded.

Bocuse d'Or and Lyon Dining
This is a very short article on dining in Lyon and Bocuse d'Or.

Puebla, Mexico a World Heritage City
When choosing to visit Puebla, I was initially drawn to it due to its reputation as the gastronomic capital of Mexico. Its cuisine is a combination of pre-Hispanic, Arabic, French and Spanish influence. Two of its world-famous dishes are Chiles en Nogada (stuffed poblano chili peppers bathed in walnut sauce) and mole poblano (a regional mole dish). As a result of my visit, I discovered some of its rich heritage and left with a longing to return and discover more.

The Captain Lindsey House Inn--An In for all Seasons
Just steps off of Main Street in Rockland, Maine, proudly sits a true gem, The Captain Lindsey House on Lindsey Street. We have published stories and recipes from hundreds of hotels and inns around the world. There is one common thread that weaves through the most successful establishments every time. It does not matter if it is an old fishing shack on a remote island or the finest hotel in Paris, it is all about the people - the people who own and run the inns. The Captain Lindsey House is very special. Built in 1832 by Captain George Lindsey, the present inn has been lovingly restored by the current owners, Ken and Ellen Barnes. You on a first name basis with Ken and Ellen, the minute Ellen meets your Cape Air flights in Rockland. They have spared no expense or detail to make their inn the most welcoming we have ever experienced. During your stay, Ken and Ellen will pop in mornings to make sure that you are comfortable and well fed.

On the Fast Track in Phoenix
Two women well past 40 raced around the fastest 60 acres in the world, following our dreams. We were at the Bob Bondurant School of High Performance Driving in Phoenix, Arizona. This school is widely recognized as the worldwide leader in driver training. We enrolled in order to become better drivers... and to have fun doing it. As Bob Bondurant said, "You are never too old to learn something new" and how right he is! Bob is a man of passion, vision and spirit. Some of his courses offered are perfect for those of us who want to learn to drive safely and with greater confidence and control.

Do You Write What You Mean?
Editing is a must when you write. Even the best writers and editors need someone else to edit their work. It is very easy when you are typing quickly to misspell or use the wrong spelling of a word. I did it a few weeks ago with an important e-mailusing their instead of thereand I know better. Even though it is best to have someone else proofread your material, when that is not possible, be sure to proof it yourself. The best way is to read it out loud. That goes for e-mail too.

Lake Havasu City--Lakeside Resort Keeps Stepping Up the Pace
The adage that reads, "Go west, young man, go west" should be modified to advise going to the far west of Arizona to Lake Havasu City. This area is deservedly known as Arizona's beach resort city. The majestic Colorado River, at this point in its 1400+ mile journey, has been dammed to form Lake Havasu with an expansive 25,000 acres.The fast-growing city of Lake Havasu includes a mainland portion plus a manmade island, formed by dredging a stagnant stream and converting it into an integral part of the lake/river. We first visited Lake Havasu City about 1999, and, by way of confession, were not overly impressed. Maybe we weren't looking hard enough. But, in 2008, through guided tours and other means, we saw first hand what a thriving small metropolis it is.

Nibbley's Cafe in Klamath Falls - Home of the Famous Oakcakes
Nibbley's Cafe in Klamath Falls is home of the famous Oatcakes. Having tasted them for breakfast, we can see why they are famous. Debbie Caldwell and her staff do a phenomenal job. When you walk into Nibbley's, you are in a warm, friendly atmosphere. As you enter the dining area, you pass wonderful pastry cases filled with treats that are difficult to pass up. Walls are adorned with a collection of quilts that tell many stories which Debbie is happy to share. Debbie is quick to say, "Do what you love, love what you do and the money will follow." How difficult is it to order breakfast? In this case, it was incredibly difficult.




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