This city’s food scene has come a long way since you visited back when you were smooshed in the back seat on your family’s road trip, and it continues to blossom into a must-visit foodie destination. In bigger cities you get pockets of cultural diversity, but it’s often harder to find in smaller towns. However, in a mid-sized city like Amarillo, diversity isn’t just woven into the fabric of the overall community, it’s celebrated.

The smell of spices fills the air at It’s a Punjabi Affair. While their menu features traditional Indian cuisine, it’s their American fusion specialities that elevate Punjabi Affairs to a whole new level of flavor. Big, bold flavor continues in the African cuisine focused restaurants of Marhaba and African Safari, serving Ethiopian and Somalian food respectively. These two establishments don’t only serve Amarillo as a restaurant, but as a cultural center where everyone is welcome to gather as one community.

After a few days of eating delicious barbecue, and the richest of Tex Mex you’ll find yourself in need of something light and refreshing. Serving up the best of south Asian cuisine, Saigon and Asian Bistro are two local go-tos for delicious Pho, hard to find Lao cuisine and fresh noodle dishes. It’s not hard to find something delicious being served up at the Sushi House, where Japanese dishes and sushi are served alongside delicious Thai food. Because what more could you want than expertly cut nigiri and a plate of Pad Thai?

Now, you can’t talk about Texas without talking about Mexican food. While the state is best known for pouring queso on everything, there are amazing establishments serving authentic Latin American cuisine. If you’ve ever wondered how non-Tex-Mexed Mexican food tastes, visit El Tejavan. This place is the real deal, and their menu, which is filled with classic dishes, proves it. As great as a full menu with tons of options can be —and it is great— there’s something special about a place that plants its flag with just a few items, and that’s exactly what Sinaloa Pollos Asados & Hotdogs has done with–you guessed it– Mexican style rotisserie chicken and hot dogs. You’ll know you’re in the right place when you smell that delicious smoke from their mesquite wood fire grills.

Looking to mix it up? Head over to Flamingo’s Latin Bar and Grill where you’ll find your new favorite tacos, a delicious selection of seafood, and what feels like a curated “Best Hits of Latin American Cuisine.” Speaking of the best of Latin America, you’ll want to add El Carbonero’s Salvadorian restaurant to your list. Hailing from the effortlessly green and mountainous coastal country of El Salvador, this cuisine is unique unto itself. Come ready for rich flavors, fluffier tortillas, and tons of amazing seafood. For a full list of restaurants, check out Visit Amarillo’s website.

Amarillo is full of personality and shared stories that have bonded its community together. You can feel it, and taste it, when you’re here. Every era and peoples added a unique layer of character that has expanded Amarillo’s already endless horizons. So, come experience the heart of the New West in a city filled with Old West spirit.

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Outdoor Adventure Awaits

Alamosa is surrounded by stunning landscapes and towering mountains, making it an ideal destination for outdoor activities like hiking, biking, fishing, birdwatching, and wildlife viewing. The town is home to some of Colorado’s most unique natural wonders.

One of the most popular destinations is the Great Sand Dunes National Park and Preserve, which boasts the tallest sand dunes in North America. Visitors can try sandboarding or sand sledding down the 700-foot dunes while enjoying the breathtaking views of nearby mountains. During late spring and early summer, Medano Creek flows through the park, creating a beach-like environment where visitors can wade in the snowmelt and enjoy the cool sand. The dunes are also an International Dark Sky Park, making it one of the best places in the country for stargazing. At night, the sky comes alive with stars, providing a perfect end to a day of adventure.

For those seeking more hiking opportunities, the San Luis Valley is home to ten 14ers—mountain peaks over 14,000 feet high. These peaks offer challenging hikes for experienced adventurers, while the valley also has more accessible trails for casual hikers. One of the hidden gems in the area is Zapata Falls, a secluded waterfall tucked away in a rocky crevasse. The short hike to the falls rewards visitors with cool mist and peaceful surroundings.

If water activities are more your speed, the Rio Grande River flows through Alamosa, offering opportunities for kayaking, paddleboarding, or simply floating along the gentle currents. Whether you want a relaxing day on the water or an adventure-filled afternoon, the Rio Grande is perfect for both.

Birdwatchers and wildlife photographers will find plenty to see in the San Luis Valley’s wildlife refuges. Every year, thousands of Sandhill Cranes migrate through the area, creating an incredible spectacle. The Alamosa Wildlife Refuge provides an excellent place to view these magnificent birds and other wildlife, making it a prime destination for nature lovers.

Alamosa’s Culinary Scene

Alamosa’s culinary scene is deeply rooted in the region’s agricultural heritage. The San Luis Valley is known for its world-renowned potatoes, which can be found in many local dishes. These fresh, local ingredients are the backbone of Alamosa’s farm-to-table dining experiences.

In addition to its potato crop, the valley grows barley, which has helped establish Alamosa’s local craft breweries. These breweries pride themselves on using local ingredients to create a unique farm-to-tap experience. Whether you’re a beer enthusiast or just looking to try something new, the town’s breweries offer a variety of flavors that reflect the region’s agricultural legacy.

Alamosa’s food scene is diverse, reflecting the area’s cultural influences. The town’s proximity to Pueblo and New Mexico means that Southwestern flavors are abundant, especially green chiles. In the fall, the air is filled with the smell of roasting green chiles, and you’ll find them in dishes like burgers, pizzas, and even craft beer.

Beyond Southwestern fare, Alamosa offers a wide range of cuisine. You can find everything from authentic Mexican food to Italian, Asian, and classic American dishes. Whether you’re in the mood for fine dining or a casual meal, Alamosa’s culinary scene has something for everyone.

The Cultural Hub of the San Luis Valley

Alamosa is more than just outdoor adventure and great food—it’s a town with a rich history and a growing art scene. Founded in 1878 with the arrival of the Denver and Rio Grande Railway, Alamosa quickly grew into a bustling hub for the San Luis Valley. Today, the town’s historical landmarks, some of which are over 140 years old, serve as a testament to its vibrant past.

The town celebrates its cultural heritage through festivals and events that bring the community together. From art fairs to music festivals, Alamosa’s events offer visitors the chance to experience the area’s traditions and culture firsthand. The town’s growing art scene is also on full display in the Alamosa Artscape, an outdoor gallery featuring sculptures and public art installations throughout the downtown area. This initiative has transformed the town into a creative space where local artists can showcase their work.

A visit to the San Luis Valley Museum is a must for anyone interested in learning about the area’s history. The museum features exhibits on Native American culture, early settlers, and the region’s railroad history. It’s an excellent place to gain insight into how Alamosa has evolved over the years and to explore the rich cultural heritage that defines the town today.

A Destination for All

Alamosa is a town that offers the perfect mix of adventure, culture, and local flavor. Its location in the San Luis Valley makes it an ideal base for exploring some of Colorado’s most iconic natural wonders, including the Great Sand Dunes and the surrounding 14ers. Whether you’re hiking, paddling, or sandboarding, there’s no shortage of outdoor activities to enjoy.

The town’s culinary scene, influenced by its agricultural roots, provides a unique farm-to-table experience that highlights local ingredients. With a variety of dining options, including craft breweries, Southwestern cuisine, and international fare, Alamosa’s food culture is as diverse as it is delicious.

Alamosa’s deep connection to its cultural heritage, combined with its emerging art scene, makes it a fascinating place to explore. The town’s festivals, public art, and historical landmarks offer visitors a chance to connect with the past while enjoying the vibrant energy of the present.

In short, Alamosa is a destination that offers something for everyone. Whether you’re drawn to the stunning landscapes, the delicious food, or the rich cultural experiences, Alamosa is a place where adventure and heritage come together. Plan your visit to this hidden gem in southern Colorado and discover all that Alamosa has to offer.

The post Why you should visit Alamosa, Colorado immediately! appeared first on Food and Travel Magazine.

Released in advance of Champagne Day 2024, the list showcases Champagne standouts in every U.S. region. It recognizes restaurants and bars that take special care to offer Champagnes from a wide variety of producers, list them properly on their menus, and serve them with élan.

“We received nominations for spectacular bars and restaurants across the country, and selected from them a list of destinations that embody the spirit of Champagne,” said Lori Russo, Director of the Bureau du Champagne, USA. “While these restaurants and bars differ in style, spanning the spectrum from fine dining to fried chicken, they all have one thing in common: they understand what makes Champagne special. For that, we couldn’t be prouder to raise a glass to them on Champagne Day and the rest of the year.”

The full list of this year’s featured bars and restaurants can be found below in alphabetical order:

• Apéro, Washington, DC: Apéro’s list of more than 700 wines places special emphasis on Champagne. The intimate setting in DC’s popular Georgetown neighborhood is an ideal spot to explore an extensive list of Champagnes smartly organized by style.
• Be Bubbly, Napa, Calif.: In the heart of California wine country, Be Bubbly takes care to showcase Champagne with a menu that includes a map of the region’s five wine-producing districts and a philosophy of Champagne as a celebration of life.
• Boiler Room, Omaha: The wine list at this terroir-focused restaurant, originally conceived by a Master Sommelier, offers a broad range of Champagnes at varying price points so everyone can join in the celebration.
• Charleston, Baltimore: The wine program at Charleston emphasizes the special relationship between wine and food. The Champagne list, which spans three pages of its menu, explains the magic of Champagne along with a diversity of tasting profiles.
• Coqodaq, New York: Proving the versatility of Champagne, Coqodaq pairs the sparkling wine with both caviar and its signature bucket of Korean fried chicken.
• Coupes, Dallas: Coupes bills itself as a bar for Champagne. True to its name, its vast menu of Champagnes explains that “Champagne is a sparkling wine, but not all sparkling wines are Champagne.”
• Fizz Champagne & Bubbles Bar, Sacramento, Calif.: Fizz believes in celebrating everyday triumphs with Champagne. Its menus and events elevate Champagne from France and distinguish it from other sparkling wines.
• La Vie, Waikiki, Hawaii: La Vie’s emphasizes farm-to-table dining with French flair, so its large selection of vintage and non-vintage Champagnes creates the perfect complement, and the view is special, too.
• Pops for Champagne, Chicago: Known for its special events, tastings, Champagne education and a vast list of Champagnes of every style, Pops has been dazzling Chicago with Champagne since 1982.
• Sexy Fish, Miami: The extraordinary interior of this Brickell restaurant is matched only by its extensive list of Champagnes both accessible and rare.

For more information on Champagne Day or to find an event near you, visit champagneday.champagne.fr. More events will be added in the near future, so check back often.

Bureau du Champagne, USA, is the official U.S. representative of the Comité Interprofessionnel du Vin de Champagne (CIVC), a trade association representing the houses and winegrowers of Champagne, France. The Bureau works to advance the CIVC’s mission of defending the interests of the Champagne appellation worldwide through education and advocacy. For more information, visit us online at www.champagne.us.

The post BUREAU DU CHAMPAGNE, USA ANNOUNCES 2024 TOP 10 BARS AND RESTAURANTS FOR ENJOYING CHAMPAGNE appeared first on Food and Travel Magazine.

The LE20 Cargo E-bike boasts a remarkable range, with the EU single battery offering up to 180 km (112 miles) and the dual battery version reaching 350 km (217 miles). Fast charging technology allows both batteries to be fully charged in just 2-3 hours, ensuring readiness for any commute.

With a load capacity of 200 kg (441 lbs), the LE20 is customizable with more than 10 accessories, making it adaptable for different lifestyles—whether for grocery trips, family outings, or transporting equipment. Powered by a US 1300W peak motor (or EU mid-mounted motor), it also features 180 mm hydraulic disc brakes, front fork suspension, and turn signal taillights for safe, comfortable riding.

Explore greener transportation with the ENGWE LE20 and enjoy the special launch discounts. For more information, visit ENGWE’s US, EU, and UK websites.

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The installation will be open to the public on:

• Friday, Sept. 27 (12 p.m.–6 p.m. EST)
• Saturday, Sept. 28 (10 a.m.–6 p.m. EST)
• Sunday, Sept. 29 (10 a.m.–6 p.m. EST)

Merrell aims to inspire urban dwellers to find nature in unexpected places. Visitors will “hike” the wheel’s interior, wearing Merrell’s Moab Speed 2 boots if desired. For more information, visit merrell.com and follow @merrell on Instagram.

The post Merrell Unveils Interactive “Wander Wheel” Art Installation in New York City, Open to the Public for One Weekend Only appeared first on Food and Travel Magazine.

Founder and CEO Bron Launsby, who was recently awarded the Innovation Excellence Award by the International Adventure and Trampoline Parks Association (IATP), emphasized the brand’s commitment to franchisees. “Our franchisees come first. We’re opening corporate locations in tandem so we can guide them based on our own experience,” Launsby said.

Slick City first opened in Denver, CO, followed by locations in St. Louis, MO, Peoria, AZ, Katy, TX, and Denton, TX. Six additional parks are slated to open by the end of 2024, bringing the total to 11 locations, with parks in places like Chandler, AZ, Wauwatosa, WI, and North Aurora, IL. The brand is expanding into major markets such as Los Angeles, San Francisco, and Pittsburgh, and exploring new construction techniques for future locations.

Slick City continues to innovate, with 48 global patents filed or granted for its slide technology. The park’s appeal spans all ages, with 19% of its revenue coming from adults, a leading metric in the industry. Slick City aims to open 500 U.S. locations, and franchise opportunities are available at slickcityfranchise.com.

Founded in 2021, Slick City offers a unique “waterless slide park” experience, combining innovative attractions with exceptional guest service. To learn more, visit slickcity.com or follow them on Facebook and Instagram.

The post Slick City Action Park Announces First 50 Locations appeared first on Food and Travel Magazine.

Backroads, the leader in active travel, has launched its 285-page catalog for 2025, titled Explore the World the Backroads Way. The catalog showcases over 270 trips across seven continents, including Biking, Walking & Hiking, Multi-Adventure, and Family tours. New offerings include Women’s Adventure Tours, a Private Reserve collection, Active Ocean and River Cruises, Dolce Tempo easygoing journeys, Snow Adventures, and Active Culinary experiences.

“This is our most extensive selection yet,” said Tom Hale, Backroads Founder and CEO. “Get inspired by our catalog, featuring amazing photos from guests, and explore your dream destinations with us.”

To view the catalog or book your next adventure, visit backroads.com or call 800-GO-ACTIVE. Follow Backroads on Instagram @backroadstravel and Facebook @BackroadsActiveTravel.

The post Backroads Releases Comprehensive Catalog of New Active Travel Trips in 2025 appeared first on Food and Travel Magazine.

“We’re excited to breathe new life into the Treetop Trails area with Wild Oasis, offering thrills and educational experiences for all ages,” said Stewart Clark, President of Busch Gardens Tampa Bay.

Guests eager to explore Wild Oasis can purchase a 2025 Busch Gardens Annual Pass, which offers exclusive pre-opening access, free parking, guest tickets, and monthly rewards. Annual passes start at $15.75 per month with no down payment, providing unlimited visits and access to seasonal events and special discounts.

Busch Gardens Tampa Bay continues to innovate with a 2025 lineup featuring heart-pounding attractions, live shows, and the new Phoenix Rising coaster, North America’s tallest and longest inverted family coaster.

For more information and updates, visit BuschGardensTampa.com or follow Busch Gardens Tampa Bay on social media.

The post Busch Gardens Tampa Bay Reveals Plans for ALL-NEW Wild Oasis Realm: North America’s Most Immersive Kid-Friendly Adventure Realm Featuring Captivating Attractions, Engaging Animal Exhibits and Other Interactive Elements – Opening Spring 2025 appeared first on Food and Travel Magazine.

Cheer on the University of Texas Longhorns at one of their home games at D.K.R. Texas Memorial Stadium on select Saturdays from September to November. For the first year ever, the Longhorns will compete in the Southeastern Conference(SEC), and go head-to-head with some of the top teams in the country. www.texaslonghorns.com

Taking place September 19-26, Fantastic Fest is the largest genre film festival in the U.S., specializing in horror, fantasy, sci-fi, action and just plain fantastic movies from around the world. Each year, organizers bring together fans, guests, industry, press, and movie lovers of all stripes in an inclusive and fun environment for a weeklong celebration. www.fantasticfest.com

The annual Austin City Limits Music Festival returns to give Austin a weekend full of live music, tasty food, and fun activities. Taking place October 4-6 and 11-13, festival-goers can experience a diverse lineup of acts with ninestages, more than 140 performances and have the opportunity to indulge in the fun over two full weekends of music. www.aclfestival.com

The U.S. Men’s National Soccer Team will take on Panama on October 12 at 8 p.m. at U.S. Soccer’s Hispanic Night hosted at Q2 Stadium in North Austin. The USMNT has never lost a match at Austin’s Q2 stadium, so come out and show your support. www.q2stadium.com

The Formula 1 Pirelli United States Grand Prix returns to Texas for a celebration of speed and sound October 18-20. The three-day event provides an action-packed experience that features can’t-miss racing action, electrifying performances from global superstars, exhilarating amusement rides, culinary experiences and so much more. Don’t miss unforgettable performances by Eminem and Sting on the Germania Insurance Super Stage. www.circuitoftheamericas.com/f1

The U.S. Women’s National Soccer Team will take on Iceland on October 24 at 6:30 p.m. at Q2 Stadium in North Austin. Don’t miss your chance to see this Olympic Gold Medal Winning team live in action against Iceland in their first International Friendly match of the season. www.q2stadium.com

Recognized as one of the top film festivals in the country, the Austin Film Festival, taking place October 24-31, shines the spotlight on both top-billed films and indies alike. The event’s mission is to further the art and craft of storytelling by inspiring and championing the work of writers, filmmakers, and all artists who use written and visual language to tell a story. www.austinfilmfestival.com

Get those costumes and tickets ready for the epic psychedelic music and art festival, LEVITATION, taking place October 31 – November 3. This four-day weekend of music brings art to Austin’s diverse Red River Cultural District and east side venues and art spaces. www.levitation.fm

Pamper your palate at the Austin Food + Wine Festival, taking place November 1-3. Join top chef talent, sommeliers and winemakers from across the nation and Austin’s own acclaimed gourmet scene for an indulgent, three-day epicurean adventure unlike any other, topped off with live musical performances. www.austinfoodandwinefestival.com

The Texas Book Festival, taking place November 16-17, has evolved into one of the premier literary events in the country and hosts about 250 authors each year. Join in with other bookworms for readings, panel discussions, signings, cooking demonstrations, live music, local food, YA authors, children’s activities and more. www.texasbookfestival.org

Event dates are subject to change or cancellation. For a complete list of live and in person events taking place now through the end of this year, head to www.visitaustin.org/events.

About Visit Austin
Visit Austin is the official destination marketing and sales organization for the City of Austin. An accredited member of Destinations International, Visit Austin is charged with marketing Austin nationally and internationally as a premier business and leisure destination, thus enriching our community’s overall quality of life.

www.visitaustin.org

SOURCE Visit Austin

The post Visit Austin, You’re in for a Show! appeared first on Food and Travel Magazine.

Disney Vacation Club will debut the Island Tower at Disney’s Polynesian Villas & Bungalows on Dec. 17, adding 268 rooms on the shores of Seven Seas Lagoon at Walt Disney World. The 10-story tower features accommodations from duo studios to two-bedroom penthouse villas. Sales start for Disney Vacation Club members on Oct. 1 and for the public on Oct. 29.

Inspired by “Moana,” the Island Tower embraces Polynesian theming with sustainable elements like rugs made from recycled bottles, aligning with Disney’s 2030 environmental goals. The new two-bedroom penthouse villas, sleeping up to eight, offer expansive patios with views of Seven Seas Lagoon and Magic Kingdom. Other options include one- and two-bedroom villas and deluxe studios, each featuring modern amenities and outdoor spaces.

The addition also includes new amenities such as a fitness center, tropical pool area, and Wailulu Bar & Grill, which offers Polynesian-inspired dining with views of Cinderella Castle. This expansion complements the existing 380 rooms, including deluxe studios and over-water bungalows.

Disney’s Polynesian Villas & Bungalows is one of 17 Disney Vacation Club properties, which include The Cabins at Fort Wilderness, The Villas at Disneyland Hotel, and Aulani, A Disney Resort & Spa.

About Disney Vacation Club
Since 1991, Disney Vacation Club has offered a flexible vacation points system. With over 250,000 members globally, it provides access to Disney Resorts and exchange options worldwide. Learn more at DisneyVacationClub.com.

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