Very recently, I discussed the importance of “coziness” in my life, and how wine plays a key role in facilitating that warm and inviting atmosphere. However, wine isn’t the only substance that creates such an experience; there is also Aguardiente de Orujo. Orujo, also known as augardente or caña in Galician, is a transparent liquor […]
Conxuro da Queimada: A Galician Fortified Witches Brew Read More »
New Jersey’s diversity can be found throughout the state in close-knit ethnic communities. Visitors can eat, shop, and partake of their customs. Ferry Street (or Portugal Avenue) in the Ironbound section of Newark is the heart of Portuguese activity in the state. Terracotta-roofed restaurants and cobblestone sidewalks mob this main thoroughfare that embodies the relaxed
Newark is Home Away From Home to Portuguese Immigrants Read More »
Last month, I made a trip to the Portuguese mountains of Serra de Estrela for the first time. Serra de Estrela is the highest mountain range in continental Portugal, and we spent 3 days enjoying some breathtaking views, crystal clear mountain lakes, picturesque little villages nestled into the cliffs and the gracious hospitality of small
The Shepherds of Serra da Estrela: A Dying Craft Threatening Portuguese Cheese Read More »
When we first moved to Spain, many moons ago, we arrived green and naive. We never jumped on Wikipedia to research the plight and suffering of the downtrodden citizens under General Franco, nor did we study the diverse and regionally specific foods and wines savored throughout the peninsula. We were ignorant of the various languages
To Kiss or Not to Kiss: Top 10 Tips for Greeting Fellow Europeans Read More »
Recently, the northeastern Spanish region of Catalonia (or Catalunya) voted to ban bullfighting; which consequently, provoked me to write an article. Since moving to Spain in 2005, I have attempted to understand the “corrida de toros” – the bullfight. I have tried to learn as much as possible, both the pro and con; and yes,
Spanish Bullfighting: The Romance, the Drama and the Traditional Recipes Read More »
If you’ve ever traveled around Spain for any length of time, you’ve most likely found yourself without toilet paper at key moments. That’s right, the Spanish do not believe in restocking toilet paper. I have no idea if they go out TP-ing historic statues at night, or if they’re stockpiling for the next uprising, but
Top 10 Tips for Traveling Spain – Don’t Forget the TP!! Read More »
Las Fallas – Valencia’s festival that you can’t miss First, I have to be very clear about the timing of this article. It’s just after 4 PM on March 15th when I sit down to write this and Spain”s biggest and loudest festival is underway, but nowhere near its height of the frenzy. Over the
Las Fallas: Top 5 Tips to the Loudest and Longest Festival in Spain Read More »
Recently, we were asked to expand upon customary table manners in Spain. As this is a relatively subjective question, considering that Spain is infamous for casting rules to the wayside, I’ve done my best to compile the top 12 table manners as I’ve experienced them in Spain. Mind you, these are not only debatable, but
Table Manners in Spain: Tackling The Tough Questions Like Where to Put the Olive Pit Read More »
When I was a child, I was enthralled with the persona of Paddington Bear. My sister had the books on tape (remember cassettes?) and I would borrow them over and over, keeping them on as quietly as I could long past my bedtime to hear about the adventures of this little Peruvian bear. Looking back
El Almuerzo: The Spanish Version of Paddington Bear’s Elevenses Read More »
When we invited you to participate in our Q&A competition, we had no idea of the number of challenging, thought-provoking and all around bizarre questions that would be filling our inbox. Rather than a simple question regarding the adequate age of utilizing an oak barrel for sherry, we instead, were asked about odd festivals we
I can’t even start this post without smiling, because the experience was so odd and enjoyable, the mere thought of it brings a big broad toothy grin to my face. My cat is even looking at me odd as I giggle alone, thoroughly enjoying the moment. I’ll let you in on my little secret, I
Doctor’s Prescription in Spain: More Meat, More Wine, More Fat, More Excitement Read More »
Leaving Spain at 7am to arrive at in Norway a little after dusk, we followed the heavy shoulders of other weary travels towards the baggage claim where we waited patiently for our large black bags brimming with clothing, gifts, and bottles upon bottles of cava, sherry and port wine. As the first bags slowly appeared
How to Remove Wine Stains: From Port Saturated Luggage Read More »
You must be logged in to post a comment.