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24 December - 8 January '11 : Southern Highlights


RIO DE JANIERO - ILHA GRANDE - IGUAZU FALLS - BUENOS AIRES

Hi Family & Friends

This year we're exploring a bit out of our European comfort zone. We're heading South and beyond the border to Argentina and Brazil to celebrate Christmas and ring in the New Year in true South American style. And.. with the greatest of pleasure, a few good friends alongside. A first for both-- this is going to be a trip to remember. Stay tuned for more!

25 - 26 December : Rio de Janiero

Taking a jeep tour through Tijuca Forest up Corcovado to see-- one of the new 7- Wonders of the World-- Christ the Redeemer. And of course, celebrating with millions-- ringing in the New Year at the All White Copacabana Beach Party!
Accomo: Acapulco Copacabana Hotel

2 - 5 January : Foz Do Iguacu
Crossing the border between Argentina and Brazil en route to undoubtedly the most beautiful of all Falls-- Iguassu Falls. While here, we'll hike the trails and take a boat/ helicopter tour to see the fall from all angles for what we anticipate to be a sight to been seen and an experience like no other.
Accomo: Marcopolo Inn

21 - 23 May : Who DAT?!

Bourbon, Beignets & Beads

Trippin'.
What's that motto again from Max's restaurant.. "If you're on a diet, this is not the place for you."? Well the same rule applies here in New Orleans, or should I say, N'awlins. Here in NOLA, where Mardi Gras, Jazz Fest and street musicians paint the town, where "watching your waistline" is just a figure of speech and where glimpses of Hurricane Katrina remain, the good times still roll. It is by far one of the most richest, most vibrant and down right resilient city this country is blessed to have.

A food lovers paradise, this is the city for exuberant indulgence. It's a hodgepodge of thick spices from traditional Creole to spicy Cajun and everything buttery in between. You name it, here in N'awlins we've tried it-- beignets at Cafe du Monde, freshly- shucked oysters at Acme Oyster Bar, turtle soup at Commander's Palace-- and of course.. wash it all down with a couple of HAND GRENADES. All the while, struttin' down Bourbon Street collecting beads along the way. *pucker*

I dare you to have a better time in N'awlins.

On a more serious note. You would never guess but masked by the unwavering and genuine Southern hospitality and the constant "Yes Ma'ams and Sirs", New Orleans is still recovering from the devastation that was Katrina; particularly in the Ninth Ward where much of what is left is.. well not much at all. You, however, can help: If you get a chance to go.. go. Go speak to the locals, taxi cab drivers, street performers, etc. Their stories are of great triumph-- of trials and tribulation-- and through it all, they have a great sense of pride for this great city and the strong will to bring it back to the way it was.

Let me sign
Aside from the French and Spanish inspired architectures, we were equally infatuated by all the eclectic and custom store signage throughout the city.



Sleeping: Le Richeleau Hotel. Casual elegance and just minutes from the famous Bourbon Street but just outside enough to escape the noise makers and night crawlers.
Eating: Jacque- Imo's Cafe, 8324 Oak Street, tel: 504 861 0886. I'm not one for green tomatoes but the fried green tomatoes with shrimp remoulade sauce made a believer out of me. Adventurous? Try the alligator cheesecake.. you heard right.
Activity: The New Orleans School of Cooking. When I tell you this is the best gumbo I've ever had.. I kid you not. Went back for not just 2nds, but 3rds and finally had to send G to get the 4th because I didn't want to look like a cow. Butter is definitely better! And what a great alternative to the typical city tours.

More Photos.

View full gallery here.