Jamaica’s unique beauty and welcoming hospitality are now more accessible than ever. With frequent, convenient flights and valuable offers, those looking to extend their summer into the fall should explore our resorts in Jamaica, where the opportunities for relaxation and adventure are limitless,” said Deryk Meany, General Manager of Sandals Dunn’s River, the newest Sandals Resort in Jamaica.

The “Experience Jamaica” Sale at Sandals and Beaches in Jamaica
Booking is open through October 6th for travel until December 26, 2026. The Experience Jamaica sale offers a $350 air credit for stays of five to six nights and a $500 air credit for stays of seven nights or longer at nine all-inclusive Jamaican properties. Additionally, guests staying at least seven nights will receive a $275 Island Routes tour credit, providing access to a diverse selection of Jamaica-focused excursions.

Participating Sandals Resorts in Jamaica include Sandals Dunn’s River, Sandals Montego Bay, Sandals South Coast, Sandals Ochi, Sandals Royal Plantation, Sandals Negril, and Sandals Royal Caribbean. These resorts offer luxury accommodations, diverse cuisine options, and stunning island vistas for quintessential Caribbean vacations this fall and beyond.

Families seeking fall adventures can also benefit from the Experience Jamaica sale at Beaches Negril and Beaches Ocho Rios. These resorts feature engaging programs like Caribbean Adventures with Sesame Street, including the new Sunrise Yoga with Sesame Street, dynamic Kids Clubs, waterparks, and a variety of dining choices.

Experience Everything Irie with Island Routes
Island Routes, Sandals’ and Beaches’ exclusive tour provider, offers guests access to some of the island’s most captivating experiences through expertly guided excursions departing directly from the resorts. Guests can enjoy a Bob Marley reggae tour, explore natural wonders like the Martha Brae River from a bamboo raft, visit the majestic YS Falls and Dunn’s River Falls, or drive a Mini Cooper through Jamaica’s beautiful landscapes. The Appleton Estate offers a sensory feast, allowing travelers to explore the production of one of the Caribbean’s most renowned rums.

For more information, visit [www.sandals.com/sale](http://www.sandals.com/sale) and [www.beaches.com/sale](http://www.beaches.com/sale).

About Sandals Resorts
Sandals® Resorts provides the most-awarded luxury all-inclusive vacation experience in the Caribbean, with 17 beachfront settings in Jamaica, Antigua, Saint Lucia, The Bahamas, Barbados, Grenada, Curaçao, and Saint Vincent and The Grenadines. Each resort embodies the unique design, cuisine, and essence of its island home. Offering butler service, gourmet dining, top-shelf spirits, and unique suites, including the Caribbean’s first Overwater Villas, Sandals Resorts creates the ideal environment for guests to reconnect and focus on what matters most. Renowned for pioneering innovations, Sandals Resorts recently introduced an off-site Island Inclusive dining program that extends the all-inclusive experience beyond resort gates. The Sandals Foundation, the company’s philanthropic arm, demonstrates the transformative impact of tourism on communities. Sandals Resorts is part of family-owned Sandals Resorts International (SRI), which includes family-friendly Beaches Resorts and is the Caribbean’s leading all-inclusive resort company. For more information, visit [www.sandals.com](http://www.sandals.com).

About Beaches Resorts
Beaches® Resorts offers the Caribbean’s most-awarded luxury family all-inclusive vacation experience, creating lasting memories. With three stunning locations in Turks & Caicos and Jamaica and a fourth opening in The Bahamas, Beaches Resorts is the ultimate beachfront getaway for the entire family. Kids can interact with the Sesame Street gang as part of the Caribbean Adventures with Sesame Street®, splash in exciting waterparks, and enjoy exclusive Kids Camps and teen nightclubs. Meanwhile, parents can indulge in butler service, luxurious spa treatments, and gourmet dining, all with the assurance of Certified Nannies and expertly trained team members. Beaches Resorts is part of family-owned Sandals Resorts International (SRI), which includes Sandals Resorts and is the Caribbean’s leading all-inclusive resort company. For more information about Beaches Resorts, visit [www.beaches.com](http://www.beaches.com).

Media Contact
[mediarelations@uvi.sandals.com](mailto:mediarelations@uvi.sandals.com)

The post SANDALS® RESORTS AND BEACHES® RESORTS OFFER SAVINGS TO EXPERIENCE EVERYTHING IRIE IN JAMAICA appeared first on Food and Travel Magazine.

“From the new Icon and Utopia of the Seas to the upcoming $100 million transformation of Allure of the Seas, we’ve tripled the excitement for how vacationers can create lasting memories with Royal Caribbean,” said Jay Schneider, Chief Product Innovation Officer, Royal Caribbean International. “Allure will be reimagined with the best of what Royal Caribbean offers and what travelers love. With new favorites like the Pesky Parrot tiki bar and experiences that continuously evoke fond memories—from an incredible pool deck to an unbeatable mix of thrills and relaxation—Allure will feature even more of what makes it a beloved favorite.”

Between The Pesky Parrot tiki bar, resort-style pools, the 10-story dry slide – the Ultimate Abyss – and more, Royal Caribbean is dialing up Eurotrips for every type of family and vacationer in more ways than one:

All-out Thrill and Chill

• All-day Pool Days – Resort-style pools are at the center of the action on the reimagined Caribbean pool deck, alongside a wider variety of seating and shade across casitas, in-pool loungers, daybeds and more. For a laidback adults-only escape, the Solarium introduces new touches, complete with the favorite Samba Grill and dedicated bars.
• The Perfect Storm – The multistory trio, the Cyclone and Typhoon racing waterslides and the SuperCell champagne bowl, maxes out on thrill with twists and turns, whether racing friends and family or time.
• Splashaway Bay – Pool days: the tots and tweens edition features slides, water cannons, fountains, pools and whirlpools, plus two drench buckets that that make double the splash.
• The Lime & Coconut – The signature poolside bar, across two locations, serves up its popular classics and twists, live music and all the vibes day and night.
• El Loco Fresh – A poolside fiesta of flavors is in store, including tacos, burritos and quesadillas.

Amped-up Flavors and Nights Out

• Pesky Parrot – Making its way to Allure following a standout debut on the new Utopia of the Seas, the Caribbean tiki bar serves up fruit-based cocktails made with rum, tequila and gin, alongside frozen drinks and surprises.
• Playmakers Sports Bar & Arcade – All ages have a seat at the table to catch live games on dozens of TVs, play arcade classics and refuel on tasty bar fare and ice-cold brews.
• The Mason Jar Southern Restaurant & Bar – Only on Wonder and Utopia of the Seas today, this hot spot is where Southern comfort food meets Royal Caribbean’s hospitality, live country music and more.

Adventures for Everyone

• Ultimate Abyss – The adrenaline-pumping experience brings to the table its memorable 10 stories of twists, turns, lights and sounds. Plus, vacationers can cool off their nerves with shaved ice in a variety of flavors – the latest addition to Wipe Out Bar’s menu.
• Royal Escape Room – Apollo 18: Lunar Landing – The latest of the Royal Escape Room lineup puts families and friends in the hot seat of the command center – in 1973 – as they look for clues and solve complex puzzles to land Apollo 18 on the moon before time runs out.
• Laser Tag – The Studio B ice rink transforms into a glow-in-the-dark laser tag arena for vacationers to challenge each other and go head-to-head in Battle for Planet Z.
• Adventure Ocean – Kids can choose their own immersive adventures across a new layout. Highlights include climbable creations at Play Place, the AO Theater, hands-on art, science and tech at Workshop; physical, interactive games at Arena; the Hangout; plus dedicated programs to engage all the senses for babies and younger kids.
• Social298 – A 360-degree transformation of the teen spaces boasts video games, music, movies and plenty of ways to kick back with new friends.

Plus, the addition of the new Ultimate Panoramic Suites above *Allure’s* bridge, offering 200-degree ocean views, adds to the lineup of returning favorites. Onboard, guests can enjoy everything from Royal Caribbean’s signature show-stopping entertainment across air, ice, water, and stage, to adrenaline-pumping activities like rock climbing and FlowRider surf simulators. Popular spots such as the Schooner Bar, Bow & Stern English pub, Italian classics at Giovanni’s Table, and American steakhouse Chops Grille will also be back, ensuring a wide range of dining and entertainment options.

Following the success of the enhanced Oasis of the Seas in 2019, Allure is the latest in the revolutionary Oasis Class to be reimagined as part of Royal Caribbean’s Royal Amplified program, which began in 2018.

Allure will be one of six bold Royal Caribbean vacations sailing from five destinations across Europe for summer 2025 before heading to Fort Lauderdale, Florida, in November 2025. Vacationers looking for a tropical escape can choose from a selection of 6- to 8-night vacations to the eastern Caribbean and The Bahamas, featuring stops at award-winning destinations like Perfect Day at CocoCay and the Royal Beach Club Paradise Island in Nassau, The Bahamas, opening in late 2025.

About Royal Caribbean International

Royal Caribbean International, a division of Royal Caribbean Group (NYSE: RCL), has been crafting unforgettable vacations for over 50 years. With innovative ships and private destinations, the cruise line offers a unique blend of experiences, from thrills to dining and entertainment, catering to every type of traveler. Voted “Best Cruise Line Overall” for 21 consecutive years in the Travel Weekly Readers Choice Awards, Royal Caribbean delivers memorable adventures across more than 300 destinations in 80 countries on all seven continents, including its top-rated private destination, Perfect Day at CocoCay in The Bahamas.

Stay updated by following @RoyalCaribPR on X and visiting www.RoyalCaribbeanPressCenter.com. For more information or to book, vacationers can visit www.RoyalCaribbean.com, call (800) ROYAL-CARIBBEAN, or contact their travel advisor.

SOURCE Royal Caribbean International

The post INTRODUCING ROYAL CARIBBEAN’S $100M-PLUS, ALL-OUT GLOW-UP OF ALLURE OF THE SEAS appeared first on Food and Travel Magazine.

Here, recreation is more than an outing, it’s an adventure with incomparable beauty. Hikers and bikers can trek more than 180 miles of spectacular outdoor trails, golfers enjoy their pick of champion courses, and recreational options abound— with scenic day trips to the picturesque Zion National Park, Red Rock Canyon State Park and its historic rock formations, and last but not least, Lake Mead, home to the iconic Hoover Dam.

Begin your recreational feast with nine courses—golf courses, that is—which include the Jack Nicklaus-designed gem at Lake Las Vegas. An alluring backdrop for golf, the lake’s brilliant blue waters also offer a refreshing plunge into kayaking, stand-up paddleboarding, flyboarding, and even yacht cruises. Back on land, hiking and biking trails stretch out across the City, ribbons of exploration threading through suburban streetscapes and through dramatic mountain and desert vistas. Take your pick from easy, intermediate, challenging and even equestrian trails.

The same is true for dining. In a City where food is a passion and every meal a celebration, diners enjoy a bountiful array of choices, from acclaimed chefs throughout Henderson and the City’s Water Street District – a historic street lined with breweries, retail and restaurants specializing in flaming fajitas to flavor-packed steaks, from robust and upscale Italian flavors to sports bar fare elevated to an art. You won’t want to miss the many picture-worthy and locally inspired murals while strolling Henderson’s original downtown.

A tasting tour of the Ethel M chocolate factory is another sweet treat, and in the aptly named Artisan Booze District, where spirits are indeed both an art and a craft, you can sip and savor your way through a brilliant lineup: Original brews in pubs like Crafthaus Brewing as well as handcrafted, small-batch wines at Vegas Valley Winery, where tours and a tasting room are special draws.

When you’re ready to relax, Henderson is home to many premier hotels such as the M Resort and Spa, Green Valley Ranch Resort Spa and Casino and lakeside hotels surrounding Lake Las Vegas, including Hilton Lake Las Vegas Resort and Spa and The Westin Lake Las Vegas Resort & Spa.

With diverse recreational options, exceptional dining experiences, and comfortable accommodations, visitors can custom tailor their visit to suit their needs and preferences. Whether you’re a family seeking a fun-filled getaway or a business traveler in need of a restful retreat, Henderson is the ideal destination for you.

Plan your trip at CityofHenderson.com

The post Discover Henderson Nevada appeared first on Food and Travel Magazine.

North Lake Tahoe is the perfect mix of lakeside adventure and on-mountain activities with experiences meant to refresh, recharge and reinvigorate your soul. From a scenic paddle to a picturesque hike, and from lounging on the beach to enjoying the local dining scene, there’s so much to do. North Lake Tahoe welcomes you to Summer’s Official Playground.

MESMERIZING VIEWS WITH MENUS WORTHY OF THE SCENERY

From lake views to mountain backdrops, North Lake Tahoe is home to some of the most enticing dining options in Northern California and Nevada. Take in a Tahoe sunset at Lone Eagle Grill in Incline Village, featuring upscale seasonal ingredients and dishes. The restaurant is steps away from a private beach, too. Speaking of amazing lakefront views, Gar Woods Grill and Pier in Carnelian Bay highlights classic Californian cuisine and unique cocktails. Enjoy both on their extraordinary deck.

For a relaxing time with the family, head to Za’s Lakefront Restaurant in Tahoe City where you can dine on elevated comfort food. Whitecaps Pizza in Kings Beach also features handcrafted pizzas along with great beer and cocktails. Wherever you land, the dining options in North Lake Tahoe are plentiful.

DINE AT THE SHORE

We can think of no better place to enjoy local food than with a view of the North Lake Tahoe shoreline. Adventurers can find public docks, benches, picnic tables and more to take in the sights and sounds of the tranquil, sapphire lake. You’re welcome to dine-in at any of their restaurants or, if you’d like to stroll along the shore, consider getting takeout. Options range from approachable grab-and-go meals to dazzling epicurean delights, but please make sure you throw away your to-go trash properly to keep the splendors of Lake Tahoe pristine.

HEAD TO THE MOUNTAIN

In North Lake Tahoe you can experience its sweeping meadows and breathtaking views with a winning variety of food choices ranging from barbecue platters and pizza slices to craft beers and wine. Choosing may prove difficult, but you’ll have a stunning mountain view wherever you go. Stroll across the cobbled walkways in resort Villages, soak in that alpine air and nosh on tasty bites from cafés along the way or visit a pub to sample a local brew. You may also enjoy roaming among the many charming shops with friends.

SO MANY OPTIONS. SO MUCH TO PLAN.

The variety of foodie havens in North Lake Tahoe offers visitors a wealth of unforgettable adventures that will delight all types of palates. Explore the mouthwatering world of North Lake Tahoe dining by choosing from over 150 restaurants and find your new favorite indulgence at GoTahoeNorth.com/Dine

TRAVEL RESPONSIBLY

The magic of Lake Tahoe lies in the culture of its communities and the natural beauty that surrounds it. When visiting North Lake Tahoe, we encourage you to make a clear difference by traveling responsibly. Summer tips include:

• Ensure you are adhering to posted signage and park legally.
• Respect the environment by disposing of any trash in trash receptacles.
• Ride a bike or use public transportation like TART to help get you to and from activities. TART Connect hosts special extended summer hours starting June 30th.
• Pack responsibly by bringing a hat, sunscreen and a reusable water bottle.
• Sign up for county and state alerts for the latest on travel advisories, including potential wildfire activity.
• Be “Bear Aware” by removing any food from your car.
• Be fire safe by following proper burning guidelines. Additionally, fireworks are prohibited in the Tahoe Basin.

With so much for your tastebuds to explore and activities to experience in between, make sure to extend your stay through the week so that you can enjoy more open space and everything the region has to offer. Find the lodging perfect for you at GoTahoeNorth.com/lodging/

The post Indulge in Summer’s Official Playground in North Lake Tahoe appeared first on Food and Travel Magazine.

But Laredo’s soul doesn’t just dwell in its past. The streets speak through stunning murals with modern tales of heritage and hope. And for those brave souls who fancy a sprinkle of mystery, the Haunted Heritage San Agustin Ghost Walk will have you exploring the eerie side of downtown, guided by the glow of your smartphone.

Steeped in flavor, The Laredo Coffee Tour is your passport to the finest artisanal brews on the border. Sip on coffee, collect stamps, and earn yourself a special souvenir to remember your journey by.

From the Chacon Creek Trail to the lush habitats of Lake Casa Blanca International State Park, and everywhere in between, Laredo is a haven for hundreds of species of local and migratory birds. For birding enthusiasts, Laredo is the place to immerse themselves in the avian wonders of South Texas all year round. Bird lovers and hikers alike can explore Laredo’s riverfront, creek systems, nature trails, and private ranchlands, some offering never-before-birded sites.

When sports are your goal, Laredo scores big time! Laredo is home to Los Tecos Baseball Team, the two-nation organization and five-time winners of the Mexican Baseball league. They’ll play 90 adrenalized games this year. The action continues with the Laredo Heat, champions of the Lone Star Conference Championship. Catch the excitement of a match at Texas A&M International University and feel the heart-pumping excitement of Laredo’s sporting spirit.

Around here, all roads lead back to la cocina, no reservations required. In Laredo, the essence of “Mex-Tex” cuisine comes alive in every bite. Here, you don’t need to cross the border to enjoy authentic Mexican flavors or hearty American fare. Laredo kitchens have more than 200 years perfecting the fusion of two distinct cultures into dishes that define Laredo’s “Mex-Tex” flavor. From sizzling fajitas, tasty tacos, to carne asada and more.

From traditional dishes to global gastronomy, Laredo’s culinary landscape is as diverse as its heritage. Choose between Thai, Italian or Japanese, and of course, the Lone Star State’s famous BBQ and steakhouses. After a hearty meal, treat yourself to the sweet delights of local confectioners, offering everything from fresh doughnuts to tres leches.

From table tops to the mountain tops, our dual culture is everywhere. In colors, textures and flavors that surround you. Here is where two become something new, and totally Laredo.

Come sunset, toast your adventure with an ice-cold IPA or cocktail. Catch the game at a sports bar or dance the night away. Laredo nights make unwinding the day easy.

Whether you’re a history buff, an art lover, just passing through, or simply in search of a new adventure, Laredo caters to all. From the cobblestone alleys to the bustling markets of San Bernardo Avenue, from serene riverbanks to artisanal coffee shops, every moment here is a discovery. So, pack your bags and set your sights on Laredo, where every visit is a journey through the heart of Mex-Tex culture.

The post Laredo: The Cultural Jewel of South Texas appeared first on Food and Travel Magazine.

The James Beard Award-winning ”Best Chef: South” and semi-finalist for James Beard’s “Outstanding Chef” Award, Nina Compton was born and raised in St. Lucia, the daughter of St. Lucia’s three-time late prime minister, Sir John George Melvin Compton. At the Compton home of seven, the kitchen was the center of activity, and young Compton wanted to spend as much time as she could there. Like her siblings, she was sent to England for secondary school. When she returned home, she told her parents she wanted to be a chef. They tried to discourage her, but she insisted, so they arranged a two-year internship at a friend’s hotel in Jamaica. We caught up with the busy chef in New Orleans.

What did you learn in the kitchen at the Jamaican hotel?
For me, the biggest thing was never stop learning. I thought I knew everything and then the chef said the next step was for me to go to culinary school. I went to The CIA [Culinary Institute of America] in Hyde Park and, after, decided to learn from the best: Daniel Boulud at his three-star Michelin restaurant in NYC: Daniel.

What was the most important thing you learned from Boulud?
It was excellence or nothing. He really pushed to make the people around him excellent.

You met Emeril Lagasse. What did he say to you?
He said, always engage people; when they come up to you, always smile. People have this expectation of you, so you need to be engaging.

You moved to Miami to work at the iconic Norman’s and, eventually, Casa Casuarina, the former Versace Mansion in Miami’s South Beach, where you met your husband and rose from sous chef to executive chef. Wasn’t this a very fast-track advancement?
It was, but it’s about paying attention and reading and researching and pushing yourself. I think that’s why people excel; you learn from your mistakes and try to be better each day.

In 2008, Fontainebleau Miami Beach re-opened, and you joined Scott Conant at Scarpetta there as sous chef. Then you were appointed chef de cuisine. What was that like for you?
I was able to learn Italian food from the Maestro, who is very, very talented in what he does and the way he’s able to showcase food at that level.

You fell in love with New Orleans and opened your first solo restaurant, Compère Lapin, which has become a hugely successful restaurant included in “Best Restaurants in America” and Food & Wine’s “40 Most Important Restaurants of the Past 40 Years.” What makes Compère Lapin so successful?
Some of those flavors that I grew up with as a child are very unique to people who’ve never had them before. There are green figs and salt fish, conch croquettes, callaloo soup with spinach okra, nutmeg, coriander and chili flakes, and much more. We don’t make food for everyone else, we make food for you.

Why is NOLA such a great foodie town?
I think it’s the most culturally rich city in the U.S. There are influences here you don’t find anywhere else in the country or world. But it’s really about the people who live here and the people who came before us and instilled such strong cultural roots for us to carry that on.

What is your comfort dish?
I think, coming from the Caribbean, curried goat is probably something that people can identify with. That is definitely my comfort food.

In 2018, you opened Bywater American Bistro, recently relaunched as BABs this past January. Why did you change the name and what kind of food do you serve?
It was always supposed to be a neighborhood restaurant: casual, no frills. But the name was very long, and I just felt like BABs, the abbreviated version, would be more playful. We focus more on Italian cuisine.

You’ve opened Nina’s Creole Cottage, a fast-casual concept featuring affordable, heritage-inspired dishes which offers bold flavor combinations traversing St. Lucian savors with Louisiana Creole flavors. Why did you open it, and what’s your favorite dish there?
Doing fast-casual is really a nod to pretty much all the things I love to eat, but in a fast-casual format. My favorite dish there is the Hot Fire Chicken because with each bite the flavor builds, which I love.

How can you run all these restaurants at the same time?
I don’t know. I haven’t figured it out yet.

You were recently named the Godmother of  Silversea’s newest ship. Silver Nova. How did that feel?
I’ve always explored the many ways in which the world’s cuisines – especially St. Lucia and the Caribbean – strengthen human connections and honor heritage, tradition, and identity. I believe food and drink have the power to bond people together and serve as a unifying language.

How do you describe your cuisine?
I would just say it’s fun. It’s not meant to be too crazy, where people don’t feel comfortable, but adventurous people can enjoy lots of flavors.

What is your guilty pleasure?
Pig. I’ve compared it to crispy savory gummy bears. I’ve tried to cut back on it and it’s just not possible.

When you taste a dish, what exactly are you tasting for?
It depends. Whenever we try a new dish at the restaurant, a lot of the young kids say, ‘Oh, Chef, I think it needs more acid or more lemon juice’ or something. And my response to that is, ‘Do you put lemon juice in your macaroni and cheese?’ And they always say no. I think having the balance of the flavors to build within the dish is very important, and having complexity where it’s not just one note. I like things to either be salty or spicy or acidic, not where it’s just one flavor you’re tasting.

You are the culinary ambassador for St. Lucia. What do you do to promote it?
I take visitors to my home island, St. Lucia, every year for a week [this year it’s July 21-27, 2024, at the luxury resort Cosmos]. I focus on the history and technique of the island’s food, but we also explore everything from markets to waterfalls. I try and show the special secrets St. Lucia holds for me and get people to understand the beauty of the island through my eyes.

Do you have any new restaurants on the horizon for the future?
I’m trying to retire.

What advice would you give to those who want to be a chef?
Don’t give up. Don’t lose sight of your goal. And have fun. We spend too many hours in the kitchen not to have fun.

What’s the most important thing about being a chef?
Get rest. Take time for yourself in the day, whether it’s 10 minutes or an hour. And go outside. When I wake up in the morning, I make a cup of coffee and sit outside and either plan out my day or disconnect for a second. My husband/business partner, Larry Miller, and I run the business together and talk about our day together. It helps to have somebody.
Also, I think the most important part of it is to stay grounded. You have to really know who you are and be comfortable with everything you’re doing and not doing it for social media or anything like that. It’s just really about how you’re projecting yourself to the people.

What’s the most favorite meal you’ve ever eaten?
It could be having grilled lobster on the beach or eating dinner in Paris. It’s really about time and place, not so much about the food but really about where I am and who I’m with.

What’s the biggest mistake you ever made as a chef?
Everybody makes mistakes. I try and look at it as a Bob Ross situation where they’re happy mistakes. At the time, we think it’s terrible, but I think everything happens for a reason in a very Seinfeld roundabout way. I think it all makes sense.

What do you want your legacy to be?
I want my legacy to be Caribbean food is unique. The Caribbean is very big and very diverse with a lot of culture people don’t know. If you venture to the Caribbean, I think you should really go to underdeveloped places. Don’t go to the touristy places. Go to areas that are off the beaten path because sometimes that’s the most authentic food that you can get to understand the island.

By Margie Goldsmith

The post Nina Compton; Breaking the Boundaries of Southern Cooking appeared first on Food and Travel Magazine.

Park Hop with No Lines and Fewer Crowds

Skip the crowds and lines of major theme parks, and enjoy a different kind of “park hopping” experience with just as many thrills. Three of California’s most beautiful national parks surround Fresno and Clovis. Only a short drive away, visitors can see three parks in one trip. A hidden gem, Kings Canyon National Park, is the deepest canyon in the United States. At 8,200 feet at its deepest points, Kings Canyon is deeper than the Grand Canyon and rewards hikers with incredible views of a glacial valley, roaring waterfalls, and giant sequoias. Stand beneath the General Sherman, the largest tree in the world, inside Sequoia National Park. Don’t miss the iconic El Capitan Mountain and Half Dome in Yosemite National Park. Yosemite requires reservations to enter the park from April through October.

Farm-Fresh, Year-Round

From luxury dining experiences to farm stands with fresh fruits, experience farm-fresh in the United State’s heartland of agriculture. It’s here you’ll discover California’s most underrated wine country. Not only does Fresno County produce a large sum of the state’s wine grapes, but wine lovers can also taste award-winning wines in an intimate setting at a reasonable price. Local wineries like Kings River Winery provide guided tours with the owner of the winery, taking you through the vineyards where their grapes are grown and the wine cellar to learn about their storing process. At Trelio Food & Wine in Clovis, the menu changes with the season and the chef utilizes locally grown ingredients to create high-end dishes. The restaurant’s sommeliers are trained to pair the best local wines to your taste and meal. Join the community in celebrating the spring harvest on the Fresno County Fruit Trail. Stop for fresh salsa and apricots at Sweet Girl Farms, juicy strawberries at Sunshine’s Farm, and a variety of fruits, dried nuts and old-fashioned sodas at Simonian Farms.

Take the Road Less Traveled

Explore the Forestiere Underground Gardens, an underground wonder carved by hand more than 100 years ago. The gardens have their own microclimate that makes the tunnels 10-20 degrees colder than the surface level. Take the family to the Fresno Chaffee Zoo to see more than 200 species within their interactive exhibits for a fraction of the cost of other nearby zoos. Join one of the behind-the-scenes experiences to help train sea otters, feed a giraffe, and touch a stingray. Thrill seekers can take a wild ride down the Kings River. Experienced tour guides will take you through twisting channels and chilled waters during a whitewater rafting trip hosted by the Kings River Expedition Class 3. The rafting season runs from late March through August. Take part in springtime events like the Clovis Rodeo, Kingsburg Swedish Festival, and the Wildflower Trail.

For more information go to visitfresnocounty.org

The post See Another Side of California in Fresno County appeared first on Food and Travel Magazine.

THE KITCHEN BAR AT CHEF & THE FARMER

In 2006, Chef & the Farmer helped create the farm-to-table movement which quickly spread across the country with fervor. For more than 15 years, Chef & the Farmer was the flagship of the movement.

In 2023, Chef & the Farmer reinvented itself as The Kitchen Bar, under the leadership of Chef Vivian Howard. Howard’s vision for Chef & The Farmer’s new methodology is to create an intimate experience one weekend a month. If you are lucky enough to get a table, Howard cooks the meal herself and 14 patrons get to experience a 7-course dinner and optional wine pairings, served right at the kitchen bar. The dedication to creating this experience is backed by Howard’s drive to locally source vegetables and meats, and a desire to interact with her patrons one-on-one.

KINGS BARBECUE

A legacy has been built here. King’s takes the same old fashion flavor perfected in 1936, and brings it into the present, right onto your plate. Picture this: Tender, pork barbecue painstakingly hand-chopped daily and slathered in our secret family sauce.

You can taste the family recipes and traditional Southern cooking methods in every morsel of their signature vinegar-based chopped pulled pork and Ribs. How good is it exactly? Well, King’s BBQ ribs were voted best in the country on the Drew Barrymore Show’s Battle of the Bites. So, nations’ best is pretty good.

SOCIAL HOUSE VODKA & PUMPHOUSE 1906

Social House Vodka is the place for vodka. It’s here that Social House has converted an old power station into a farm-to-flask distillery. Made in Kinston, this corn-based vodka is all locally sourced from North Carolina farmers. Their craft spirits are premiere in their flavor and presentation. Offering distillery tours by appointment, you can see the process of how Social House creates liquid gold from grain. The corn gives the Vodka a sweet, buttery, soft, subtle note suitable for sipping on the rocks or mixing into cocktails.

You can taste those cocktails at the PumpHouse 1906. The local speakeasy is owned and operated by Social House and it showcases small batch collections of craft spirits, infusions, syrups, and bitters. No one cocktail is quite like the other. Choose from their extensive menu options or ask one of their mixology specialists to create something special for you.
When you’re in Kinston, every meal has meaning. It’s about the experience of sitting at the table with friends and family. It’s about the sustainable practices that go into every sip. It’s about supporting local farmers. It’s about a culinary experience that you can’t find anywhere else. It’s not just food, but it’s memories. It’s not just southern, it’s southern with a kick. Consider yourself invited.•

Plan your trip today at VisitKinston.com

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For those drawn to the water, South Holston Lake bordered by the Cherokee National Forest, has much to offer. A gentle glide on a kayak or paddleboard, world-class fishing, rare bird observation, enjoy the thrill of a jet blade or floating waterpark, South Holston provides a perfect blend of activities for everyone. Numerous streams, rivers and lakes throughout the region are filled with large and smallmouth bass, spotted and rock bass, walleye, catfish, native brook, brown, and rainbow trout. Reserve a day or camping excursion with a local fishing guide.

Culinary Delights

Abingdon is well known for its collection of local restaurants. There are more than 30 in all, combining for an amazing mix of culinary offerings that has consistently garnered votes as one of the Best Small Town Food Scenes in the Country by USA Today’s 10Best. Abingdon is a treasure trove for the palate, from farm-to-table dining experiences to the unique flavors of craft beverages, including beer, wine, cider, freshly pressed juice, and specialty coffees.

Glimpse of History and Culture

While the call of the mountains and the lure of the table are compelling, Abingdon’s charm is deepened by its unique blend of history and culture. The town’s storied past is not just alive, but it resonates in its 22-block historic district, where architecture spans two centuries. Stand on the very ground where a small group of patriot militia changed the course of American history at the Abingdon Muster Grounds, the trailhead for the Overmountain Victory National Historic Trail. From Barter Theatre, which has a fascinating history of trading performances for produce during the Great Depression to vibrant festivals, museums, artisan studios, unique shops and galleries showcasing art, music, and antiques; Abingdon has something for every art and history lover.

Abingdon’s Warm Welcome

After a day spent in the embrace of nature or indulging in culinary delights, Abingdon offers a range of accommodations to rest and rejuvenate. Recognized for its southern hospitality, the town’s lodging options—from charming inns to cozy lofts—promise a warm welcome and a comfortable stay, making it easy to see why Southern Living heralds it as one of the best small towns in the South.

Your Invitation Awaits

Located conveniently off I-81 and within easy reach of major cities and airports, Abingdon stands as a beckoning destination that marries the tranquility of the great outdoors with the vibrant beat of cultural and culinary life. Its central location makes it a perfect getaway for those seeking a blend of nature and culture, inviting you to explore, taste, and discover.

So, are you ready for an unforgettable journey? Find your way to play and indulge in Abingdon’s culinary and natural splendors! VisitAbingdonVirginia.com for more information and start planning your adventure today.•

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In December 2023, the National Park Service named Bedford, Virginia an American World War II Heritage City. This program honors the contributions of localities and their citizens who stepped into the workforce to support America’s efforts during World War II. Only one such designation is awarded in each state or territory.

The 80th anniversary of D-Day will be commemorated June 6-9, 2024, with the theme “Every Story Lives On”. The events begin with a ceremony on June 6 with surviving D-Day and World War II veterans as the guests of honor. On the evenings of June 7 and 8, the Memorial will be transformed in a multi-media sensory display, with the presentation When We Went In: The D-Day Experience in Light and Sound, created exclusively for the National D-Day Memorial by the Institute for Creativity, Arts, and Technology at Virginia Tech. The acclaimed West Point Alumni Glee Club will perform a stirring patriotic remembrance concert before the Friday night show. On Saturday, USO-style duo, Letters from Home, will dazzle the audience with a 1940s-themed concert to open the showing. The events conclude with an authentic field chapel service on Sunday morning, June 9.

Visit the Memorial’s 80th anniversary website at dday.org/80th for full event details, tickets, and updates. The Memorial’s normal operating hours are daily, 10 a.m. – 5 p.m.

When visiting, don’t miss the Bedford Boys Tribute Center in historic downtown. Opened June 1, 2019, this is the nation’s largest and most comprehensive museum honoring the legacies of the famed “Bedford Boys.” Walk in their footsteps inside Bedford’s iconic and historic Green’s Drugstore where they hung out as young men. Learn about them growing up and about the supreme sacrifices made that forever teach us that freedom is not free.

Also located in Bedford is Thomas Jefferson’s personal retreat home, Poplar Forest. Built in a grove of poplar trees, the octagonal house, one of Jefferson’s finest architectural designs, offers great insight into the private side of this Founding Father. A visit to Poplar Forest will shed new light on Thomas Jefferson’s creativity and curiosity, his enslaved community, and his private world. View artifacts from the free and enslaved people who lived and worked at Poplar Forest. The site is open for daily tours and hosts special events throughout the year, including historical theater, lectures, dinners, ceremonies, wine festivals, and more.

Historic downtown Bedford offers art galleries, shops, antiques, and restaurants that are within easy walking distance from each other in a charming atmosphere of 19th Century buildings. The Bedford Museum, located beside the County Courthouse, showcases Bedford’s rich history.

While in Bedford, be sure to stop by the Bedford Area Welcome Center. The Center is open daily 9 a.m. – 5 p.m. and includes a gift shop, firefighter display, RV hook-ups, electric car charging station, LOVE sign, and more.

Visit DestinationBedfordVA.com or call (540) 587-5681 for more information.

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