CHRISTMAS IN BETHLEHEM

Millions of Christians around the world make a pilgrimage to the HOLY LAND to visit BETHLEHEM. During the month of December BETHLEHEM is filled with CHRISTMAS wonder and there's no better place to celebrate midnight mass than at Church of Saint Catherine.Some sights to see in Bethlehem areThe Old City,The Mosque of Omar, Rachael's Tomb, The Shepherd's Fields, and Solomon's Pools. The top attraction however is the Church of the Nativity in Manger Square. It's one of the oldest churches in the world. Adjacent to the Church of the Nativity is the Church of Saint Catherine. This is where the Grotto of the Nativity is located.

The Grotto of the Nativity marks the traditional spot of the birthplace of Jesus Christ by the Blessed Virgin Mary. The Church of Saint Catherine is the site of the yearly midnight mass broadcast around the world.

CHRISTMAS in BETHLEHEM in December is a very uplifting and spiritual experience. With so many accommodations to choose from spending a week in Bethlehem is truly a wonderful Christmas present.

ACCOMMODATIONS in BETHLEHEM:

www.bethlehemhotel.com

www.mangersquarehotel.com

www.holyfamilyhotel.com

www.nativityhotel.net

INDIA; Yours to Discover

                                                       Jaipur, INDIA

There are so many fascinating things about INDIA that it would take several pages to fit it all in.
Below is just a short description about one of the oldest countries in the world. INDIA; It's yours to discover.

Ayurveda (the earliest school of medicine) comes from India 

India is the worlds largest and oldest continuous civilization.

The capital of India is New Delhi.

The official language of India is Hindi.

India is the second most populated country in the world.

The Ganges River is India's holiest river. It is known for spiritual purification by the Hindus.

India has more post offices than any other country.

India got its independence in 1947. The premium lager beer "1947" is a celebration beer.

Algebra, Caculus, and Trigonometry originated in India.

The Sanskirt language (Mother of European languages) comes from India.

Yoga has its origins in India and yoga which consists of breath control, body postures, meditation, and discipline has existed for 5,000 years.

  

There are thousands of places to visit in intriguing INDIA. I've listed a few of the popular ones.

AGRA,  home to one of the best wonders of the world; TAJ MAHAL.

CALCUTTA,  India's second largest country is regarded as cultural and intellectual.

GOA,   A sandy coastline of beauty attracting beach vacationers.

JAIPUR,  The "Pink City" with lots of elephants.

KASHMIR,  Alpine peaks and valleys make for postcard scenery.

MUMBAI,  (formerly Bombay) is Bollywood Movie capital.

RISHIKESH,  is the yoga capital of the world.

UDAIPUR,  the Venice of the East is filled with hills, lakes, palaces, and temples.

                                                   Cows are respected in INDIA!


INDIA TRAVEL SITES:
www.intrepidtravel.com/india www.remotelands.com
www.easytoursofIndia.com\
www.bollywoodtours.com\in
indiaodysseytours.com

A Tahiti Honeymoon (Island Hopping)

Overwater Bungalows are a popular lodging option in Tahiti.

TAHITI, (Queen of the Pacific) is the largest island in French Polynesia, Windward Group. It is a tropical paradise with lots of sunshine, breath-taking scenery, turquoise waters and warmhearted Polynesians.  Couples from all over the world come to TAHITI to seek the perfect honeymoon. 

An authentic Tahitian wedding in glorious TAHITI is a ceremony of a lifetime and a honeymoon in TAHITI is genuine bliss. The ideal honeymoon is a stay in an overwater bungalow. Perched above the turquoise waters of a lagoon an "overwater bungalow" is where you'll find romance and serenity. 

Pamper yourself on your honeymoon with some Polynesian spa treatments, a "motu picnic" on a tiny islet in a lagoon, and candlelight dinner at a five star restaurant. Don't leave TAHITI without the perfect gem…..a Tahitian pearl.

Packed with activities the island of TAHITI offers beautiful scenery every step of the way. Spend your daytime hours on the beach and your nighttime hours drinking and dancing. It's your honeymoon and you both deserve to enjoy every single moment of "honeymoon bliss."

Plan your TAHITI honeymoon:

www.customtahiti.com

Honeymooning in Tahiti (Island Hopping)

With its beautiful scenery, excellent cuisine,
perfect weather, turquoise beaches and top notch accommodations it's no wonder couples
in "love" are heading to TAHITI for some honeymoon bliss. TAHITI can be very expensive but if you're seeking a honeymoon vacation with lots of luxury than TAHITI might just be your place for
some honeymoon bliss.

More on "TAHITI" when I return for my
next post.

The Pearl of the Indian Ocean (Sri Lanka) Island Hopping

"The finest island of its size in all the world."

          Marco Polo

                                                                     kaputa.com

An island country, SRI LANKA has Adam's Peak, Ayurveda, bendy palm trees, elephants, exotic fruits, fragrant spices, golden beaches, national parks, tea plantations, UNESCO World Heritage Sites and so much more. 

The gateway to Sri Lanka, Colombo is the largest city with a population of roughly 4 1/2 million. There's a lot to see in Colombo from the Old Dutch Hospital to the Federation of Self Employees Market to the elite neighborhood called Cinnamon Gardens. Colombo has plenty of attractions, entertainment, restaurants, and shopping to keep you busy. From Colombo you can visit the West Coast beach towns of Bentota, Kalutara, and Negombo. 

The "West Coast" beach region of Sri Lanka is busy and quite developed so for a harmonic connection with wildlife "Wilpattu National Park" is the place to go. This is where you can take a safari jeep tour. The laid back "South Coast" region of Sri Lanka is more slower paced than the bustling "West Coast." A mixture of charming colonial towns, temples, and shrines you can delight yourself with a visit to Galle, Mirissa, Unawatuna, and Yala National Park on the "South Coast."

As you journey through this compact "Buddhist" island you'll be amazed at all the treasures you'll find along the way; botanical gardens, cultural heritage, exquisite landscapes, national parks, pristine beaches, tea estates, waterfalls, wildlife, and so much more. With a culture that extends more than 25,000 years SRI LANKA known as "the pearl of the Indian Ocean" will captivate you.


Sri Lankan Milk Toffee (A Sweet Dessert)

1 can condensed milk
1/2 cup sugar
1/2 cup water
1 ounce of butter
1 tablespoon of almond extract
1 tablespoon of vanilla extract 
1/2 cup chopped cashew nuts

In a medium pot simmer sugar and water on a stove top until dissolved. Add the can of condensed milk along with butter and milk. Stir until thickened. Add the chopped cashew nuts. Keep stirring the mixture until it thickens. Remove from heat. Spread mixture evenly in a buttered dish. Let cool for one hour. Cut into pieces, eat, and enjoy.

Sri Lanka (Island Hopping)

Ramayana is a great Hindu epic that takes place in what is now known as Sri Lanka. Ramayana consists of 24,000 verses in seven books. The story is about Rama and his wife Sita the ideal couple who live a happy life in the forest until Sita is abducted by the demon king Ravana. Sita is held captive on Ravana's island and Ravana is eager to marry Sita. Rama is determined to find Sita so he seeks the help of mighty general monkey Hanuman and his monkey team. Traveling across the sea Rama and Hanuman reach Ravana's island  where there is a fierce battle; Rama and Hanuman successfully kill the demon Ravana and Sita is freed and reunited with Rama.

                                                                                             

A tropical Buddhist island, Sri Lanka is the land of bendy palm tress, ceylon tea, cinnamon, elephants, fresh coconuts, jungles, sun kissed beaches and over fifty sites related to Ramayana. Located on the southern tip of India in Southeast Asia, Sri Lanka is fast becoming a tourist destination. 

What is there to do and see in SRI LANKA? My next post on SRI LANKA will be coming up soon!

Nature in Madagascar (Island Hopping)

The animals of Madagascar mesmerize humans beings because many of them simply cannot be found anywhere else on the planet. Here's a list of some of the living species that make Madagascar home: Aye-Aye, Bamboo-Lemur, Comet Moths, Dwarf Lemur, Red-Ruffed Lemur, Flat Tailed Geckos, Flying Fox, Fossa, Tomato Frog, Panther Chameleons, and Pochards just to name a few. 

                                       Aye-Aye (Courtesy of animal danger.com)

                                        Flying Fox (Courtesy of art.com)

                                      Tomato Frog (Courtesy of Tumblr)

The animals of Madagascar aren't the only spectacular thing to witness. Eventually during your journey the scents of vanilla will enchant you. Madagascar is one of the top producers of vanilla and vanilla is the second most expensive spice in the world. 

                                                Vanilla Orchid (Madagascar)

The vanilla flower is an orchid that produces fruit that is the result of pollination of the flower. Vanilla grows as a vine climbing upon some sort of support such as an existing tree or pole. Devoted workers must inspect the plants and try to pollinate as many flowers as possible. It is a labor intensive job and the process of producing vanilla has been passed down generation to generation in Madagascar.

A few weeks after pollination a long green bean will start to grow (the vanilla bean). The bean must continue to grow on the vine for several months. Once it is picked it must dry in the sun for another several months. Eventually much moisture is released and this is what gives vanilla it's distinct flavor and wonderful scent. 

Vanilla has many multiple uses. It can be used to make essential oil, perfume, and soap. It can be infused into tea or used for baking. Vanilla is enjoyed across the globe thanks to the hard working people of Madagascar.

NATURE is at it's best on the island of MADAGASCAR.

Madagascar; A land of Vastness (Island Hopping)

(Someday when I can afford to travel to Madagascar I would like to spend a month doing charity work. I've been blessed to meet a few people from this country who have shared valuable information. I thank them and I'm honored that I can write a little bit about this unique country on my blog).

Madagascar is an island country off the coast of Southeast Africa. It is the fourth largest island in the world and is inhabited by over 22 million people. The majority of the population only makes two dollars per day. Although Madagascar has a lot of poverty it has treasures that no other country in the world can claim.

The two modes of transportation to Madagascar are by airplane or ship. It is an adventure to travel to Madagascar by sea on a ship because it's a long and rough trip with the sea being very choppy at times. There are plenty of airlines that fly into Madagascar; Air Austral, Air France, Air Madagscar, Corsair, and Interair. Once you get to Madagascar you will surrounded by things that no other countries can boast about.

Many of the animals and plants on Madagascar are unique. In fact 90% of them are only on Madagascar. If you ever have the opportunity to visit Madagascar you will be the small percentage of the world's population to witness such extraordinary species.

INTERESTING FACTS:

It was Italian explorer Marco Polo who gave the island its name. He was the first European explorer to reach the island. The name was first spelled Madeigasar.

Madagascar is the world's 47th largest country.

Madagascar has deserts and rain forests.

Madagascar's highest mountain peak is Maromoktro at 9,436 feet.

Madagascar is the largest producer of vanilla. Vanilla plants grow on a vine.

The two languages spoken in Madagascar are French and Malagasy.

The valiha is the national musical instrument of Madagascar. It is made from a species of local bamboo and played by plucking the strings which are often made of metal.

                                               The children of Madagascar


Photos: Courtesy of Wikipedia


Next Post: A look at the animals and plants of Madagascar; a little history about vanilla.

Jolly in Jamaica (Island Hopping)

"One Love/ People Get Ready"

                  by: Bob Marley

Give thanks and praise to the Lord and I will feel all right. Let's get together and feel all right.

The Jamaican's have a lot to be thankful for. They live on a gorgeous island with 635 miles of coastline, they eat delicious healthy food, and drink refreshing beverages, they have sea grape trees, and swaying palm trees, they have Jamaican rum and island dances. They're the creators of reggae music and they know how to jam. They have the legendary Bob Marley whose music is loved the world over. They have lots of sun and blue skies and so much more.

The average September temperature in Jamaica is 88 degrees (fahrenheit) 31 degrees (celsius). With clear blue skies and lots of sunshine it's easy to feel "Jolly in Jamaica." So if you're looking to island hop to a Caribbean island for a vacation why not choose Jamaica?

Jamaican's refer to their home island as the "Rock." Jamaica is a Commonwealth realm with Queen Elizabeth II as its monarch and head of state. The Governor General of Jamaica is Patrick Allen and the Prime Minister is Portia Simpson-Miller.

J A M A I C A:

Hike the Blue Mountain Peaks

Swim with the Dolphins at Dolphin Cove Marine Park

Book an adventure tour with Chukka Caribbean Adventures

Relax on a beach

Explore the capital city of Kingston

J A M A I C A   B E A C H E S:

Boston Bay Beach (Port Antonio)

Doctor's Cave Beach (Montego Bay)

Seven Mile Beach (Negril)

Treasure Island (South Coast)

Turtle Beach (Ochos Rios)

J A M A I C A N    C U I S I N E:

Try the curry goat, fried dumplings, fried plantain, ackee and salt fish, Jamaican patties, oxtail, rice & peas, and steamed cabbage.

                                                 Jamaican Food is Jolly Good

Whether you come to Jamaica for the beaches, the drinks the food, the music, the nature, or the weather…. chances are you'll be "JOLLY IN JAMAICA."


JAMAICAN MAI TAI (RECIPE)

1 cup Appleton V/X Rum
1 oz Triple Sec
1 oz Almond Cream
1 oz Sweet & Sour Mix
1 cup Pineapple Juice
1 oz Tia Maria Jamaican Dark Rum

Pour the Appleton V/X Rum, Triple Sec, and Almond Cream into Collins glass. Fill the glass with equal parts of sweet & sour mix and pineapple juice. Add the Tia Maria Jamaican Dark Rum.  Mix together and put a straw in the glass.

Afternoon Tea; Grand Hotel style on Mackinac Island (Island Hopping)

The Grand Hotel on "Mackinac Island" is the world's largest summer -only resort. It was built over 100 years ago with the help of big railroad money and hard workers. To this day the Grand Hotel is a high style hotel with sheer elegance and traditions. 

One of the traditions that still takes place is "afternoon tea" inside the Parlor of the Grand Hotel. Guests are able to enjoy fresh baked scones, petite fingers sandwiches, an array of delicious pastries along with champagne, tea, and sherry. The elegant afternoon tea is accompanied by a chamber music recital. Served daily from 3:30 pm - 5:00 pm it costs $30.00 per person plus 6% sales tax to enjoy a memorable afternoon inside the lovely Grand Hotel. Non -guests must pay the $10.00 entrance fee to enter the Grand Hotel if they'd like to partake in "afternoon tea."
                                                                                                                 

                          
A recipe for Traditional Scones:

2 cups all purpose flour
1/3 cup sugar
1 tablespoon salt
1/2 cup cold butter, cut in 1/2 inch cubes
1 cup whipping cream, divided
2/3 cup dried currants

Preheat oven to 450 degrees. Stir together the flour, sugar, baking power and salt in a large bowl. Cut the butter into the mixture and a pastry bleeder until crumbly and mixture resembles small peas. Freeze for five minutes.

Add 3/4 cup plus 2 tablespoons whip cream in the dry mixture and stir until moistened.  Add the dried currants to the mixture. Turn dough onto wax paper and press the dough into 7 inch round mixture (it will be crumbly). Cut into 8 wedges. Place the wedges 2 inches apart on a lightly greased cookie sheet. Brush the tops of the scones with the remaining heavy cram until moistened.

Bake the scones in the over at 450 degrees for about 13- 15 minutes until they are golden. Serve on a plate with clotted cream and jam.

                                       Enjoy "afternoon tea" at the Grand Hotel!

A visit to the Grand Hotel is like stepping back in time and partaking in "afternoon tea" is something you'll very much enjoy and remember for a very long time. 

A Step Back in Time to Mackinac Island (Island Hopping)

As I sit in front of the majestic bay in Traverse City (Northern Michigan) typing away on my laptop I can hear "Mackinac Island" calling out to me. Having been to Mackinac Island a handful of times I can honestly say that it's one of the most idyllic islands in the world. Located on Lake Huron and the Straits of Mackinac and covering 3.8 square miles "Mackinac Island' is a shining star that draws 15,000 visitors per day during the summer months of June, July, and August.

Mackinac Island was formed as the glaciers of the last Ice Age began to melt around 13,000 BC. Today in the 21st century locals and tourists are captivated by the island's magnificent beauty. There have been no motor vehicles allowed on the island since 1898. Bicycles and horses are the only modes of transportation on Mackinac Island and that's what makes it feel so old fashioned and unique.

From the moment you set foot on the island all your troubles seem to melt away and you can enjoy hours upon hours of feeling carefree. Whether you want to enjoy afternoon tea at the "Grand Hotel," bicycle the island, take horse drawn carriage rides, swim in the water, shop, or eat fudge….you will love Mackinac Island.

Ferry Companies Sailing to Mackinac Island:

Arnold Transit Company  www.arnoldline.com
Shepler's Mackinac Island Ferry  www.sheplersferry.com
Star Line Ferry  www.mackinacferry.com

                                           The Grand Hotel

Places to Stay on Mackinac Island:

Grand Hotel is sheer opulence and the crown jewel of Mackinac Island.
www.grandhotel.com   1-800 33 GRAND

Mission Point Resort is a full service resort with modern and old world charm.
www.missionpoint.com   1-800 833-7711

Bogan Lane Inn is a bed and breakfast that was formerly a family home.
www.boganlaneinn.com  (906) 847-3439

Chippewa Hotel Waterfront with it's Victorian ambiance is located on Main Street.
www.chippewahotel.com  (906) 847-3341

Hotel Iroquois is a recipient of a Conde Nast Reader's Choice Award.
www.iroquoishotel.com  (906) 847-3321

Island House Hotel is a romantic place to stay and be pampered.
www.the islandhouse.com 1-800 626-6304

Inn at Stonecliffe is a historic inn that resembles a mansion. It has 16 guest rooms.
www.theinnatstonecliffe.com  (906) 847-3355

                           Making and eating fudge is a Mackinac Island tradition
                                       
Fudge Shops on Mackinac Island:  (During the high season on Mackinac Island, 10,000 pounds of fudge leave the island daily...that's a lot of fudge).

Joanne's Fudge Shop                                   
460 Main Street

May's Candy Shop
1 Main Street

Murdick's Fudge 
6343 Hoban Road

Murray Hotel Fudge Company
7260 Main Street

Ryba's Fudge Shop
7245 Main Street

Where to eat on Mackinac Island:

Carriage House (inside Hotel Iroquois)
7485 Main Street
An award winning classic American cuisine restaurant.

Cawthorne's Village Inn
1384 Hoban 
A cozy and good place to dine for lunch and dinner. The planked whitefish is the signature dish.

Island Slice Pizzeria
7248 Main Street
A great place for pizza and subs.

Seabiscuit Cafe
7337 Main Street
A charming atmosphere with tasty comfort food.

The Yankee Rebel Tavern
1493 Astor Street
Enjoy an eclectic choice of regional favorites at this quaint tavern.

Grocery Stores on Mackinac Island:

Doud's Market
7260 Main Street
Doud's is America's oldest family owned grocery store and they have an amazing selection of groceries. Locals and visitors flock here to do their food shopping. Some of my favorite items here are the homemade soups and ready made salads….absolutely delicious and a great value.

Even Hollywood is mesmerized by the beauty of Mackinac Island. Television shows have been filmed on Mackinac Island as well as the movies "This Time for Keeps" with Esther Williams and "Somewhere in Time" with Christopher Reeve. 

If there's one island in this world that's worth hopping to it's Mackinac Island. The year round population of Mackinac Island is about 500 but with so many people being fascinated by the wonders of Mackinac Island that number may soon become 5,000 year round residents.

See you soon on magical MACKINAC ISLAND!

                          "Somewhere in Time" was filmed on Mackinac Island!                                          

Island Hopping

The world has thousands of thrilling islands……and soon I'll be writing my next post about islands around the world. There's nothing more thrilling than I S L A N D  H O P P I N G!

Prince Edward Island, Canada

                                                         
                                                     Jamaica, (The Caribbean)

                                                    Mackinaw Island, Michigan (USA)

                                                                  Madagascar, Africa

                                                                        Gotland, Sweden

                                                          

Join me soon for: ISLAND HOPPING!

                                                                                     

Summer in Stockholm

With summer in full swing there's still plenty of weeks left to swim and if there's one place in the world where swimming is adored it's the beautiful capital city of Stockholm in Sweden.

Stockholm is a city surrounded by water and it spreads over 14 islands. Stockholm is one of the few cities in the world where taking a dip in the clear waters smack in the middle of the city is a normal thing to do. In the winter the Swedes swim in the many indoor swimming halls but in the summer they swim outdoors.

If you find yourself in Stockholm for a day or two here are a few outdoor swimming spots that will put a smile on your face; Ekhagenbadet, Fredhallsbadet, Hagaparken, Kanaanbadet, Langholmsbadet, Sicklasjon, and Smedsuddsbadet. 

                                There are countless outdoors spots for swimming in Stockholm


STOCKHOLM, SWEDEN HIGHLIGHTS:

ABBA Museum (The famous pop group) has a permanent exhibition of the Swedish Music Hall of Fame.

Stockholm City Hall (Stadshuset) is a massive red building with Romanesque architecture.  A guided daily tour is available year round and the tour lasts about one hour.

A visit to Old Town Stockholm…..step back several centuries and walk through the maze of alleyways, boutiques, cafes, cobble streets, and meeting squares.

Djurgarden, an island with forests and meadows is the perfect recreational spot to spend the day. This is where you can visit the popular Vasa Museum to view a 17th century ship and enjoy Grona Lund Amusement Park.

SUMMER IN STOCKHOLM!

Sweden and Hiking

Kungsleden "The King of Mountain Trails" is Sweden's longest hiking trail. Located in Northern Sweden the "Kungsleden" beckons lovers of the outdoors who want to experience the ultimate peak. This trail rewards hikers with a spectacular landscape of glaciers, flowers, mountains, and rivers.

It can take over a month to hike the entire length of "Kungsleden" which is 275 miles (443 kilometers) long. The trail goes through four national parks and a nature reserve. It can be enjoyed for days since the trail is equipped with cabins and huts.

From early June until the end of September you can experience the ultimate peak by hiking Sweden's highest mountains and experiencing Northern Sweden to the fullest.

Kungsleden Hiking Tours

www.naturetravels.co.ukhttp://www.naturetravels.co.uk/hiking-trekking-sweden-kings-trail-abisko-kebnekaise-stf8ts1.htm

                                         Enjoy "Swedish Snacks" on your hike!
                                           

                                                           

The Midnight Sun and Northern Sweden

                        The Midnight Sun in Northern Sweden

Northern Sweden is famous for the "Midnight Sun" which is an unbroken 24 period of sunlight that occurs during the summer months. Swedish Lapland is where you'll find the Midnight Sun and Northern Lights. The Sami people who live in this region of Sweden are the original Swedes whose roots trace back to the Ice Age.

Northern Sweden is a land of vast wilderness and extraordinary beauty. Abisko National Park spreads over 77 kilometers of land and offers great summer hiking. Lulea the capital of Swedish Lapland is a city with an international feel. Near the city of Lulea is Gammelstad Church Town (A Unesco World Heritage Site). A 15 century stone church is surrounded by red painted houses with white doors and windows. These houses were once used to accommodate Sunday worshippers who travelled from far distance in the countryside and couldn't return home the same day. 

June, July, and August are especially good months to visit Northern Sweden for the longer days and warmer weather.
                    
                       Gammelstad Church Town

June on AEROE ISLAND; A Happy Place to Be!

                                       Picturesque AEROE ISLAND, DENMARK

Summer has arrived in Europe and June is a spectacular month to enjoy long sunny days. In the Scandinavian country of Denmark on the Baltic Sea sits an idyllic island named "Aeroe Island." The moment you arrive to this majestic island you'll feel like you've entered the pages of a perfectly illustrated fairytale. If there's one place to be in June it's "Aeroe Island."

Beaches, biking trails, churches, cobbled streets, farms, flowers, harbors, pastures, storybook homes and windmills are what you see when you're on lovely Aeroe Island. The three villages of Eroskobing, Marstal, and Soby have their share of culture, lodging, and restaurants. Some people visit Aero Island for a day, a week, a month, the whole summer, or they fall so much in love with it that they stay forever.

During the month of June it doesn't get dark until 11:00 pm so you can enjoy daylight for a very long time on Aeroe Island.

Places to Stay on Aeroe Island:

Andelen Guesthouse
Bed & Breakfast Harmoni
Damgaarden Apartments
Dextegaard Bed & Breakfast
Holmegaarden Bed & Breakfast
Naturparkens Bed & Breakfast

Aeroe Island (Website)

http://www.aeroeisland.com/

Krabbesalat (Crab Salad)

Enjoy this refreshing summer salad on "Aeroe Island"

1 cup mayonnaise
1/2 pound crab meat
1 celery stick, diced
1 small cucumber, thinly sliced
4 large tomatoes, sliced
1 spoonful of tomato puree
handful of alfalfa sprouts
dash of paprika
dash of vinegar

Mix together 1/2 pound crab meat with 1 cup of mayonnaise, tomato puree, celery stick, dash of paprika, and a dash of vinegar for taste. Place the sliced cucumbers and tomatoes along with a handful of alfalfa sprouts on top of the salad.

Krabbesalat (Crab Salad) may be eaten with some freshly baked bread!

                                                  Krabbesalat (Danish Salad)

Feeling Happy in Copenhagen

                          "The Little Mermaid" statue in Copenhagen

It's hard not to feel happy in Copenhagen. This cosmopolitan Scandinavian city is clean, safe, exciting, and full of open-minded people. Some might even say it feels like a Hans Christian Andersen fairytale. Danish author Hans Christian Andersen wrote many fairytales; The Princess and the Pea, The Snow Queen, The Ugly Duckling, and The Little Mermaid to name a few.

Copenhagen's top attraction is "The Little Mermaid" bronze statue displayed on a rock by the waterside at Langelinje Pier. Made by sculptor Edvard Erichsen "The Little Mermaid" statue is visited by 75% of tourists that come to Copenhagen throughout the year. Other places to visit when in Copenhagen are Blue Planet Aquarium, Tivoli Gardens, Stroget Street (for shopping), The Rundetaarn (a 17th century tower) and the famous Danish castle known as Kronborg Castle.
                                 
                                  Tivoli Gardens is a favorite attraction

The Danish like to eat and so do the tourists. "Noma" is currently considered the world's best restaurant and it's right in Copenhagen. Other popular restaurants to consider eating at if a reservation at "Noma" is impossible are AOC, Cap Horn, Fiskebaren, Geranium and Ida Davidsen.

What do the Danish like to eat?

Hot Dogs; bread with sausage, ketchup, and mustard. (Hot Dog Stands are scattered around Copenhagen).

Liver Paste (95% percent of Danish people eat liver paste).

Potatoes

Porridge

Roast Pork with Parsley Sauce

Smorrebroad (an open sandwich) The choice of fillings is endless!

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When in Copenhagen enjoy the architecture, the attractions, the entertainment, the choice of lodging options, the wonderful restaurants and the great Danish beer. BE HAPPY!

                                  A Danish Specialty "Smorrebrod"

The land of "Happy People"

Denmark is considered the happiest country in the world because the citizens contribute to making things work in a positive way.

A small, densely populated country Denmark has 406 islands and its most important sources are oil and forms of energy.

Join me as I take a tour of this happy country in the Scandinavian region of Europe. 

           

                                  Dansk Wienerbrod (This is Denmark's famous pastry)

The Danish refer to their pastries as Wienerbrod which means "Viennese Bread" These sweet breads are often filled with cheese, cream, fruit preserves, jam, and nuts.

       
                                       DANSK WIENERBROD (Danish Pastry)
                                                     (Absolutely Delicious)

Dough: 4 cups flour,  1 and 1/2 cups cold butter, 4 1/2 teaspoons active dry yeast, 1/2 cup warm water,1/2 cup heavy cream, 1/2 teaspoon cardamon powder, 1/2 teaspoon salt, 2 eggs, 1/4 cup sugar.

Filling: Raspberry Preserves (Seedless)

Icing: 1 cup powdered sugar, 2-3 teaspoons warm milk, 1/2 teaspoon almond extract

Glaze: 1 egg beaten, 2 tablespoons water, sliced almonds

Mix together flour and cold butter making certain the butter becomes dough like. Set aside. Allow the dry yeast to dissolve in warm water in a separate bowl for about five minutes. Combine beaten eggs with heavy cream and sugar. Add to the dissolved yeast mixture than mix in the flour and butter mixture along with cardamon powder and salt. Once the dough is mixed together and moist keep it in a bowl and cover it with a towel.  Let it chill in the refrigerator for 5-6 hours or overnight,

Divide the chilled dough and roll out the dough to make it a 16 to 20 inch square. Place half the rolled dough on a cookie sheet and bake it for about 15 minutes. It should rise a bit in the oven. Let cool than add raspberry preserves on top so that it covers the dough.

Take the other dough make it into braids placing the dough over the preserves in a criss cross shape.

Place the glaze; one beaten egg with 2 tablespoons water and brush it over the dough. Sprinkle the sliced almonds on top. Bake about 10-15 minutes.

Remove from oven and cool. Put icing on top and enjoy this tasty dessert.
                               
                                         

                  Have a party and enjoy Danish pastries with your family and friends!

Adrianna (Travel World)

                                          

             

A visit to "Old Hollywood" (California, USA)

Hollywood, California is known the world over for the movie industry. The 21st century Hollywood has the 20th century Hollywood to thank for starting the incredible movie industry in Southern California many years ago.

Superstar "MICKEY ROONEY" who passed away this month was the last male star of the "golden age of Hollywood." Mr. Rooney made hundreds of films and his legend will live on for years to come. I'd like to dedicate this post to him.

Once upon a time there was a fabulous movie studio known as Metro, Goldwyn, Mayer (MGM). A lot of amazing films were filmed on the MGM sound stages.  MGM had a lot of major stars too including Mickey Rooney who was the #1 star in the world from the late 1930's until the early 1940's. Spanning a film career that lasted ten decades Mr. Rooney was truly a hollywood legend.

Although "LOS ANGELES" is an ultra hip city with 21st century trends one can still take a trip down memory lane and get a taste of what "HOLLYWOOD" was like in the golden days when stars like Fred Astaire, Joan Crawford, Clark Gable, Judy Garland, Cary Grant, Shirley Temple and Lana Turner were household names.

Here's a listing of some places to scout out for a feel of "Old Hollywood"

1. The Hollywood Museum (the former Max Factor Building)
    1660 North Highland Avenue

2.  Griffith Observatory (Griffith Park)
     4730  Crystal Springs Drive

3.  Grauman's Chinese Theater
     6925 Hollywood Blvd

4.  Hollywood Bowl
     2301 North Highland

5.  Million Dollar Theater
     307 Broadway

6.  Formosa Restaurant
     7156 Santa Monica Blvd

7.  Musso & Franks Restaurant
     6667 Hollywood Blvd

8.   Original Old Pantry Cafe
      877 South Figueroa

9.   Pink's Hot Dog Stand
      709 La Brea Avenue

10. Tommy's Original World Famous Hamburgers
      2505 Beverly Blvd

11. Sony Pictures (former MGM Film Studio)
      10202 West Washington Blvd, Culver City

12. Warner Bros Studio
     3400 West Riverside Drive, Burbank

                                               Judy Garland & Mickey Rooney
   
HOLLYWOOD was quite a place back in the old days and because of the pioneers that founded the film industry we can enjoy HOLLYWOOD films for years to come. A trip to HOLLYWOOD, CALIFORNIA should be on everyone's bucket list.

                          MGM was known as "having more stars than in the heavens"

A Tribute to Mickey Rooney (Hollywood Superstar)

The one and only "Mickey Rooney"

The passing of Hollywood legend Mickey Rooney really saddened me because I was a huge fan of his. I had the honor of meeting him in person twice and seeing him perform on stage a few times. 

Mickey Rooney made films for HOLLYWOOD for many decades. Join me on my next post as I take a trip down memory lane to the "Golden Age of Hollywood" when Mickey Rooney was the biggest star in the world and when HOLLYWOOD was the place to be.

A trip to HOLLYWOOD, CALIFORNIA is a combination of old and new. 

Sunday in LOS ANGELES (City of Angels)

Today is Easter Sunday and as I'm enjoying a restful day I can't help but think about my first visit to sunny Los Angeles on a Sunday. I arrived at the beautiful Los Angeles Union Station by Amtrak train and headed straight to Hollywood via the Metro. Yes, Los Angeles actually has a decent public transportation system of buses and a subway system that runs from Downtown Los Angeles to the San Fernando Valley. The metro stops right in the heart of Hollywood and that's where I recommend staying when you arrive to the "City of Angels."

Staying in Hollywood is a legend in itself especially if you check into the Orange Drive Hostel at 1764 North Orange Drive. This boutique hostel was once a 1920's manor home that later became a boarding house. Residents of the boarding house before they became famous were Marilyn Monroe, Gary Cooper, Rita Hayworth, Kim Hunter and Douglas Fairbanks Jr. The Orange Drive Hostel with its old world charm is a great value and it's close to all the Hollywood action. So once you check in and get settled in at the Orange Drive Hostel you can walk a short distance to an affordable supermarket located at 7021 Hollywood Blvd called Fresh & Easy. At Fresh & Easy you can get everything from fresh strawberries to ready made sushi. Stock up on some 
beverages and food at Fresh & Easy and head to the beach.

                     Santa Monica Beach

The beach rules in Los Angeles and that's where the locals and tourists go for sand, sun, and surf. Popular beaches in Los Angeles include Hermosa, Malibu, Manhattan, Santa Monica, Venice, and Zuma Beach. Whether you prefer amusement parks, beach volleyball, dolphin watching, paddle boarding,roller blading, swimming, surfing, or just working on a nice tan, a day at the beach is a must when visiting Los Angeles. 

After hanging out at the beach you can return back to Hollywood and enjoy the Hollywood Walk of Fame. Have your smart phone handy to take photo's of your favorite stars who have been honored with their name displayed inside a big star on the sidewalk. Over at 1521 North Highland Avenue is Hollywood High School where stars like Cher, Judy Garland, and Lana Turner were students. Quite a few films and television shows have been filmed within the walls of Hollywood High School and it's worth taking a peak at this high school's exterior.

                       In-N-Out is awesome!

Dusk is approaching but your first day in the "City of Angels" isn't over until you eat at In-N-Out Burger. With some of the best burgers and fries in the country In-N-Out Burger is a fast food craze in Southern California and for good reason. The Hollywood location is located at 7009 Sunset Blvd. 

So whether you arrive to Los Angeles on a Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, Friday, Saturday, or SUNDAY I hope you have as much fun as I did my first day in sunny Los Angeles.

                     Orange Drive Hostel (my favorite place to stay)